bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tourism and poverty in rural South Africa: A revisit
Authors: Toerien Daan
Published: January 2020

Debates about the value of pro-poor tourism indicated a need to revisit the links between the dynamics of tourism and hospitality enterprises and community poverty in rural South African towns. The numbers of tourism and hospitality enterprises in these towns are related to population numbers by a power law with a sub-linear exponent. The residents of smaller South African towns are more dependent on the tourism and hospitality sector than are the residents of larger towns. Measurement of the enterprise dependency indices (EDIs) of these towns provides a valid measurement of their wealth/poverty states. Their EDIs are directly and negatively associated with the strength of their tourism and hospitality sectors. Communities in towns with more tourist and hospitality enterprises are overall wealthier, and vice versa. This finding contrasts with a previous view about tourism and poverty reduction in South Africa. Debates about the benefits of pro-poor tourism should include information about the impact of tourism on community wealth/poverty. The EDI is a simple, yet powerful, measure to provide poverty information. Expressing the number of tourism and hospitality enterprises per 1000 residents of towns enables comparisons of towns of different population sizes. Based on ideas of the ‘new geography of jobs’, it is clear that tourism is part of what is called the traded sector and results in inflows of external money into local economies. Tourism is a driver of prosperity and a reducer of poverty in South African towns.
 
Significance:

The application of different quantitative techniques demonstrates enterprise orderliness in the tourism and hospitality sector of towns in semi-arid South Africa.
Smaller towns are particularly dependent on the tourism sector. Analyses indicate that tourism strength decreases overall community poverty.
Leadership provided by individuals and location of towns can contribute to tourism success and poverty reduction.
Community wealth/poverty should form part of the pro-poor tourism debate.
Análise de conservantes em produtos cárneos: uma proposta para ecoformação de técnicos em química
Authors: Daguer Heitor , Dos Santos Jacson Nascimento
Published: January 2020

Neste artigo, relatamos a experiência da utilização da temática do controle analítico de conservantes em produtos cárneos como uma alternativa pedagógica criativa ecoformadora para o componente curricular “Análise Instrumental II” de um curso Técnico Integrado em Química, considerando a educação profissional em uma perspectiva politécnica e unitária. Esta proposta visou contribuir para um processo de ensino-aprendizagem mais contextualizado e desfragmentado, relacionando conhecimentos sobre técnicas analíticas (cromatografia líquida acoplada à espectrometria de massas e eletroforese capilar) com a sua importância para a saúde pública e para a formação acadêmica dos Técnicos em Química. Este projeto proporcionou aos estudantes experiências importantes para sua inclusão no mundo do trabalho, contribuindo para a preparação de futuros percursos formativos e ocupações dentro da área da Química.
El sistema de abastecimiento del palacio de la Casa de Fernán Núñez, Córdoba (1679-1985)
Authors: Espejo Jiménez Francisco Manuel
Published: January 2020

El palacio de Fernán Núñez (Córdoba), al igual que los grandes conjuntos palatinos, contó con un sistema de abastecimiento que no solo suministró al inmueble y su jardín, sino que gracias a la eficaz recogida de aguas fue el motor de una serie de ingenios que se establecieron a partir de 1679. Esto se debió al interés de la Casa de Fernán Núñez por su gestión, pues de ella dependían todas las explotaciones locales y las buenas rentas que se obtenían. Gracias a las fuentes inéditas consultadas, al trabajo de campo realizado, entre otros, se ha podido reconstruir este sistema, en un cuestionado estado de conservación, con el fin de poner en valor la red que ha dado vida a la villa.
Estrategias cosmopolíticas para la defensa del agua en territorio Mapuche-Huilliche
Authors: Lazo Rojas Massiel Amelia , Avila Garcia Patricia
Published: January 2020

La significación del agua que organiza las estrategias cosmopolíticas de los territorios mapuche-huilliche, adquiere renovada importancia frente al actual contexto de privatización de los derechos de aprovechamiento de las aguas en Chile.

El caso de la comunidad MapucheHhuilliche de Rupumeica, configura un ejemplo único en Chile de ejercicio político indígena en que se consigue detener por diez años la construcción de un proyecto hidroeléctrico. Para lograrlo la comunidad de Rupumeica ha defendido el agua en nombre de sus mitos, de sus ritos, de los espíritus dueños del territorio en que habitan y de sus antepasados que poblaron ese lugar; así como en nombre de sus títulos de propiedad entregados por el Estado de Chile y del Convenio 169 de la Organización Internacional del Trabajo (OIT), firmado tanto por  el Estado Chileno como el de Noruega (Nación a la que pertenece SN Power, empresa que desea construir dicho proyecto).

En el presente artículo se busca expresar el carácter que adquieren los ngen  (espíritus dueños), especialmente el ngen-ko (espíritu dueño da água) e chao- ngenechen (unidad base, material-inmaterial) en la articulación de las estrategias cosmopolíticas para reclamar la participación Mapuche-Huilliche en la gestión de su territorio. Tal participación ha permitido impedir la construcción de la presa hidroeléctrica Maqueo, la cual propone desviar 6 ríos e inundar aproximadamente 180 hectáreas de sus territorios ancestralmente habitados, en las riberas del lago Maihue, comunas de Futrono y Río Bueno, en la región de los Ríos (andes austral, sur de Chile). En busca de comprender las estrategias y prácticas cosmopolíticas de protesta  presentes en el conflicto, se observa un desacuerdo radical frente a la posibilidad de una apertura ontológica, que reivindica territorialidad, hogar y linaje, frente a las transformaciones territoriales impuestas por el desarrollo económico nacional. En este sentido el desacuerdo que emerge entre aquello que se considera a sí mismo “el todo” (El Estado nación) y la existencia de aquello que lo excede (la cosmopolítica indígena que no deja marcas en la historicidad del Estado nación).
ANALYSIS OF THE DEFECTS OF THE FLOORS OF THE BUILDING - OBJECT OF CULTURAL HERITAGE
Authors: KIZIMOVA Olga V. , ZOBKOVA Natalya V.
Published: January 2020

In order to preserve the historical part of the city of Saratov, a survey of the building, which is an object of cultural heritage and refers to an architectural monument of federal significance, was carried out. During the inspection, defects in floor structures made of different materials and having different technical solutions were revealed. At different elevations, the supporting elements of the floors are made of wood, brick and reinforced concrete. The results of the survey with a description of the defects of wooden and stone floors. The analysis of defects allowed us to establish the causes of their appearance. Recommendations on troubleshooting are given. The described defects are characteristic of buildings of an old construction, therefore the results of this work can be used when conducting a survey of architectural monuments.
THE ECONOMIC KEYNOTE OF THE MODERN WAVE OF SEPARATISM IN THE EUROPEAN UNION
Authors: Hrubov Volodymyr , Danylenko Serhii
Published: January 2020

Separatism has long been present in Western Europe as a political and social phenomenon. In the 21st century, it is the most manifest in the most affluent and successful countries in the European Union, including the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Germany, and Belgium. The paradox of this phenomenon is that the political aspect of the issue, which represents the confrontation between the newly emerged elite of «disobedient territories» and the central authorities, is closely intertwined with the economic factor of regional inequality, which has historically been present in those countries.
The objective of the article is, therefore, to elucidate the economic factor in the separatist sentiments in the countries of Old Europe and the role of regional political elites in the formation of separatist sentiments.
The methodology used in the course of research includes a number of scientific methods. The historical method helped reveal the features of separatist sentiments in specific EU countries and the internal and external factors that have transformed these sentiments into a commonplace public stance. The comparative method allowed clarifying the peculiarities of separatist movements in particular countries and the intentions of the political discourse in the political and legal field which they produce in order to support the view that secession is more beneficial to all than remaining within the ineffective state system. Finally, the dialectical method made it possible to identify political contradictions between governments and regions within their common history with delicate and contestable moments that secessionists seek to use in their struggle for independence.
The manifestation of separatism and secessionist policies by opposition forces has been analysed in Spain, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
It is noted that in the United Kingdom, where the rich province of Britain seeks to keep its political influence over the poorer provinces, separatist sentiments in Catalonia (Spain), Bavaria (Germany), South Tyrol (Italy), in Flanders and Wallonia (Belgium) are more akin to whims of human rationality, seeking for even more material possessions for already economically successful provinces with broad autonomy.
Based upon the analysis conducted, the following findings have been arrived at. First, European separatism is not a one-dimensional phenomenon and includes economic as well as political, ethnic and national motives. Second, European separatism varies from country to country: in the UK, it is categorical for long-term purposes and historically caused by the negative effects of colonization policies by the British in other provinces; in Spain, it is nationally and culturally specific, based on identity and history; and in Germany, it is «soft» in form and restrained in manifestation, with autonomy and federalization not destroying the state.
Twenty Years Working with Neighbours. Citizen Participation, Is It Possible? What We Have Learned in 20 Years
Authors: Remesar Antoni
Published: January 2020

In 1999, the Governing Council of the Universitat de Barcelona approved the creation of the POLIS Research Center. Later, in 2016, the Center was ratified after passing an assessment of the Catalan Accreditation Agency (AGAUR). The Centre has an interdisciplinary vocation and brings together researchers from different research groups at the University of Barcelona and cooperates with nine European and Ibero-American universities in the fields of Arts, Architecture and Human and Social Sciences. Academically, the Centre has promoted the doctoral program Public Space and Urban Regeneration (1998–2017) and the Master’s Degree in Urban Design: Art, City, Society (since 2007) and the publication of the journal On the w@terfront. The research object of the Centre is the city and its public space and, more specifically, the role of citizens in the production of Public Art and Urban Design. For this reason, the work of the Centre covers the topics related to Urban Regeneration, Sustainability, Urban Governance, Civic Remembrance, Heritage. Throughout its twenty-year history, the Centre has developed a series of projects for citizen participation in various areas of the periphery of Barcelona: River Besòs (municipality of Sant Adrià de Besòs) La Mina neighbourhood (municipality of Sant Adrià de Besòs) and the Barcelona’s neighbourhoods of Baró de Viver and Bon Pastor. A characteristic of the work of the centre has been, and is, the endorsement of citizen participation, through an innovative approach based on enabling the creative empowerment of the neighbours within the framework of Participatory Action Research. This approach is based on a project methodology, as it is understood in various project disciplines from Art to Architecture, from Design to Engineering. This article, associated with the itinerant exhibition “20 years working with neighbours,” reviews the founding project carried out by the Centre, “Social Uses of the River Besòs” (1997–1999), analysing the lessons learned, with the aim of clarifying the research criteria that the Centre follows for the development of citizen participation projects.
The Role of Visual, Semantic and Sensual Aspects of Architecture in Perpetuating the Memory of the Past – the New Synagogue in Mainz
Authors: Sowińska-Heim Julia
Published: January 2020

Thanks to its expressive form, the New Synagogue and the Jewish Community Centre in Mainz erected in 2008–2010 is a powerful sign in the urban space, creating a sort of aesthetic energy of the place. Its shape and influence results from the special synergy of an ultra-modern form and content deeply rooted in tradition. Serving particular functions, the building at the same time becomes an important urban art piece, determining and defining identity of the place.
A Review of Pancasila under Globalization
Authors: Effendi Shofi Munawwir
Published: January 2020

Pancasila dalam Pusaran Globalisasi (Pancasila under Globalization) is a book that aims to see Pancasila, Indonesia's state ideology, from a global perspective. This book suggests readers consider the role of Pancasila over the world's powers of other ideologies by presenting rare insights to discuss and bridge the understanding of continuities and changes that has existed in society. Changes include, but not limited, to social, political, economic change, and linkages with various variations of society. Those changes are massively happening in the era of globalization plus with the challenges of the government to filter it. This book is a compilation of writings from various excellent academics in their fields. Moh. Mahfud MD, foremost Indonesia's professor of law and politics, delivered the book's prologue, who critically questioned 'Is Pancasila still relevant?' in the era for which Pancasila is rarely seen to implement in public life. Given the fact that hitherto Indonesia has faced problems that have come out of the nature of Pancasila. Mahfud, in his prologue, asked the reader to reflect on the true meaning of Pancasila. In short, understanding the role of Pancasila in this globalized world, particularly as the nation's ideology, has become essential so that every Indonesian citizen will have a much more similar understanding, perception, and attitude towards Pancasila.
Utilizing Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) as a Means for the Protection of Indonesia’s Natural Resources
Authors: Disemadi Hari Sutra , Lasmadi Sahuri
Published: January 2020

Indonesia has the potential to manage natural resources in such a way that social justice, public welfare, and the prosperity of the people is also realized. Contract law is the primary legal umbrella used in efforts to protect natural resources from exploitation. This study uses normative juridical methods that prioritize secondary data as the primary sources. This study shows the form of the legal protection of state assets related to oil and gas management including the government has the right of immunity, the existence of provisions regarding state revenue, state levies, and bonuses and the existence of provisions for contractors to distribute a portion of the production share. Thus, the government uses Production Sharing Contracts (PSC) to enter into oil and gas management agreements with contractors, specifically regarding upstream business activities. The Oil and Gas Law does not elaborate on the meaning of the PSC. Rather, it only states that the PSC is one form of the contracts.

Keywords: Production Sharing Contract, State Control, Protection of Natural Resources.
The Expression of The PfEMP1-DBL2β Recombinant Protein of Plasmodium falciparum Welch, 1897 Isolated From Indonesia
Authors: Hasanah Fathul Hidayatul , Sulistyaningsih Erma , Sawitri Widhi Dyah
Published: January 2020

The binding of Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1) to Intracellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is a major pathological mechanism in severe malaria including cerebral malaria. The binding is mediated by PfEMP1-DBL2β domain. The study aimed to explore there combinant protein of PfEMP1-DBL2β domain of P. falciparum isolated from Indonesia. DNA was isolated from a severe malaria patient. The DBL2β domain was amplified using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) with specific primer and cloned into the pJET1 cloning vector. The DBL2β recombinant protein was constructed from DBL2β-pJET1 clone using pET-30a expression vector and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21-DE3. PCR colony and digestion of plasmid clones using restriction enzymes were conducted to confirm cloning result, and the expression of recombinant protein was analyzed using Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate-Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The expression of DBL2β-PfEMP1 domain is higher in pellet than in supernatant fraction. In conclusion, the DBL2β-PfEMP1 domain recombinant protein of P. falciparum isolated from Indonesia expressed as a ~66 kDa protein in full length. Keywords: DBL2β domain, Indonesia, PfEMP1, Plasmodium falciparum, recombinant protein.
ADOECIMENTO MENTAL NO TRABALHO: UMA REALIDADE DOS DIAS ATUAIS
Authors: Garcia Barboza Elisana Ligia , Bertolossi Dantas Erica Lissandra , Santos Marta Azevedo
Published: January 2020

Resumo: Levantamento de dados de servidores de uma Universidade Federal do Norte do Brasil, com dados secundários obtidos no período de 2011 a 2018 que se afastaram para tratamento da saúde por transtornos mentais, ocasionados por questões que envolvem o trabalho, e/ou ambiente de trabalho, relações interpessoais no trabalho, relações hierárquicas. Hoje, as condições de ambiente, saúde e segurança no trabalho passam a ser compreendidas como garantias essenciais para a qualidade de vida dos indivíduos e direito à cidadania. Observamos um aumento nos casos de afastamentos de trabalhadores da Instituição de Ensino Superior com causas transtornos de saúde mental. O presente artigo busca discutir os fatores que tem levado ao aumento destes índices nas IES.
Leveraging Cloud-Based Analytics in Active Well Defense Projects and Automated Pressure Response Analyses
Authors: Bommer Pete , Iriarte Jessica , Bayne Marc , Cline Colby , Ramirez Alberto , Van Domelen Mary
Published: January 2020

Fracture-driven interactions in horizontal wells are receiving considerable attention due to the costly negative effects on the full field development of unconventional reservoirs. Operators have tested various methods to minimize these interactions. Active well defense (AWD) describes the process of pumping into existing wells while completing new wells in a unit. Detailed evaluations of active well defense projects are cumbersome due to the extremely large volume of data generated from multiple sources, further complicated by the fact that the data are often stored in variable formats. This paper demonstrates that near real-time evaluation of an active well defense project is possible.

Minimization of fracture-driven interactions has been accomplished by a two-fold approach: optimization of the completion design for the new wells and improvements to the active defense process. Building upon previous successful projects (Bommer et al. 2017; Bommer and Bayne 2018), this case study is based upon a new 16-well data set. The workflow developed allows near real-time optimization of the defense process. An improved understanding of the impact of design and execution parameters (rates, pressures, fluids, diverters) on fracture-driven interactions is possible using only the time-series data traditionally gathered during fracturing and well defense operations.

Increasing the number of fracture initiation points along the lateral by maximizing perforation cluster efficiency is the first step toward minimizing fracture-driven interactions. A common tool is the use of dynamic diversion. Operators apply various diversion techniques in multi-stage fracturing to increase cluster efficiency. The ability to assess diverter performance in time-series data is valuable when optimizing fracture operations.

Active well defense is the second step in minimizing fracture-driven interactions (FDI). In this case study legacy wells are defended by pumping treated water into the legacy wells while completing new wells in the unit. FDIs are monitored with high resolution gauges while the pump-in rates into the legacy wells are dynamically adjusted based upon the pressure responses. Post-project evaluations involve multiple time-series data streams containing an extremely large amount of data. The raw data (.CSV files) are collected and analyzed using a cloud-based application optimized for time-series frac data. Combining the frac treatment data from the new well with the legacy well defense data and applying advanced analytics techniques, it is possible to identify trends and quantify the effectiveness of the active well defense process. Finally, well records and historical production data are combined with the treatment data to demonstrate the overall economic benefit of the process.
Spatial phylogenetics of the Chinese angiosperm flora provides insights into endemism and conservation
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Xia , Ye Jian-Fei , Laffan Shawn W. , Mishler Brent D. , Thornhill Andrew H. , Lu Li-Min , Mao Ling-Feng , Liu Bing , Chen You-Hua , Lu An-Ming , Miller Joseph T. , Chen Zhi-Duan
Published: January 2020

Background: The flora of China is well known for its high diversity and endemism. Identifying centers of endemism and designating conservation priorities are essential goals for biodiversity studies. We implemented a spatial phylogenetics analysis of the Chinese angiosperm flora at the generic level to identify centers of neo- and paleo-endemism. Phylogenetic endemism (PE) centers were compared with taxonomic endemism centers, and their implications for conservation were examined.Results: (1) The majority of grid cells in China with significant PE were mixed- or paleo-endemism. The PE centers were mainly located in the mountainous regions. (2) Nine geographic centers of endemism were identified for 3,513 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Four of these, found in northern and western China, were recognized for the first time. (3) Arid and semiarid regions were commonly linked to centers of significant PE, as has been found in other spatial phylogenetics studies worldwide. (4) Six high-priority conservation gaps were detected by overlaying the boundaries of China’s nature reserves on these centers of endemism.Conclusions: Mountainous regions are the “museums” and “cradles” for Chinese angiosperms, including both the mountains of southern and northern China. The areas we highlight as priorities are important for broad-scale conservation planning, especially in the context of evolutionary history preservation.
First epidemiological survey of Angiostrongylus vasorum in domestic dogs from Spain
Authors: Carretón Elena , Morchón Rodrigo , Falcón-Cordón Yaiza , Matos Jorge , Costa-Rodríguez Noemí , Montoya-Alonso José ALberto
Published: January 2020

Background: Angiostrongylus vasorum is the causative agent of canine angiostrongylosis, a disease that mainly affects domestic dogs and others wild carnivores. In Europe, the number of infected animals is increasing, being mainly located in central and southern countries. In Spain, several studies have reported high prevalences of A. vasorum in wild animals. However, there are no studies that address the current situation and distribution of the disease in domestic dogs in the country. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of A. vasorum in different areas of Spain. Methods: Between November 2018 and October 2019, blood was sampled from a total of 2024 domestic dogs from 6 eco-epidemiological zones of Spain with climates that favour the presence of competent gastropod mollusks, and tested for the presence of A. vasorum circulating antigens using Angio Detect TM . All included dogs lived outdoors or had regular access to areas with vegetation. Results: The prevalence of canine angiostrongylosis in the studied areas of Spain was 1.73%. No differences were found between males and females. By age, significant higher prevalances were found in dogs younger than 4 years. By eco-epidemiological areas, the highest prevalences were obtained in the north (2.74%) and northwest (1.86%) of Spain, and the lowest was described in the western area (0.93%). Conclusions: The prevalence obtained can be considered high and demonstrates the presence of canine angiostrongylosis in Spain, in those areas where infected wild animals have been described and where climatic conditions are favourable for the establishment of the disease. Prophylactic measures should be prescribed for dogs at risk of infection and veterinarians should be aware of the importance of this disease.
Comparison Of Transversus Abdominis Plan Block And Quadratus Lumborum Block For Postoerative Pain Control Following Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Kacan Merve , Gulec Handan , kosar berrin , ilhan seda , Horasanli Eyup
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND To compare Quadratus Lumborum Block (QLB) and Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) blocks for postoperative pain control following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Study and Design Prospective randomized head-to-head clinical trial. Methods A total of 60 patients who were set to undergo elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly separated into two groups. QLB was preoperatively applied to 30 patients and TAP block was also applied to 30 patients. A record was made of the intraoperative additional fentanyl dose, and at postoperative 0-1-2-4-6-12-24 hours, records were made of cumulative morphine consumption, number of morphine requests, VAS values, shoulder pain, heartrate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, SpO2, sedation score (Ramsey scale), itching, nausea and vomiting, respiratory depression, and other complications. Results In the examination of intraoperative additional fentanyl use, there was no requirement for additional fentanyl in 86.7% of the QLB group, while in 60% of the TAP group, there was seen to be at least one dose of additional fentanyl required. At all timepoints between 0 and 24 hours postoperatively, the cumulative morphine requests and morphine consumption values were significantly lower in the QLB group than in the TAP group. No statistically significant difference was determined between the groups with respect to nausea, vomiting, sedation, and itching as morphine-related side effects. Conclusion Morphine consumption was significantly lower in patients who underwent QLB procedure at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours compared to the TAP group. In general, effective analgesia was provided by both methods, but more effective analgesia was determined to have been provided in the QLB group compared to the TAP group, and thus QLB can be preferable to TAP.
Virtual reality on motor anticipation and hand function in patients with subacute stroke : A study on movement-related potential.
Authors: Chen Ling , Chen Yi , Lo Wai Leung Ambrose
Published: January 2020

Background: Impaired cognitive ability to anticipate the required control may affect functional recovery. The cortical excitability of task related motor anticipation for upper limb movement induced by virtual reality (VR) training is unknown. Aims: To investigate the changes of motor anticipation, cortical excitability and upper limb function induced by VR training in subacute stroke survivors.Methods: Upper limb hemiparesis resulting from the first occurrence of stroke within 1 to 6 months were recruited. Participants were randomly allocated to conventional therapy or VR intervention. Electroencephalogram (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) were simultaneously recorded during parlmar grasp motion. Outcome measures of contingent negative variation (CNV) latency, mean peak amplitude, electromyography (EMG) reaction time, Upper Limb Fugl-Meyer Assessment (UL-FMA) and the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) were recorded pre and post intervention. The EEG and EMG differences between the two groups were assessed by mixed model ANOVA (p=0.05). The differences in UL-FMA and ARAT were assessed Wilcoxon signed-rank test (p=0.05). Results: The reduction in EMG reaction time difference, CNV latency and mean peak amplitude were significantly lower in the VR group than the control group when executing movement with the paretic hand. ARAT and UL-FMA scores were significantly higher in the VR group than the control group post intervention. Conclusions: The findings indicated a reduction in brain computational demand during palmar grasp task. Improvements in clinical function in the VR group suggested that VR intervention may be more beneficial in improving upper limb function patients with subacute stroke. Improvement in upper limb function may be related to improvement of the neural anticipatory process.
What are the effects of six month personalized endurance training on work ability in middle-aged sedentary women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Stenner Hedwig Theda , Eigendorf Julian , Kerling Arno , Kück Momme , Hanke Alexander A. , Boyen Johanna , Nelius Anne-Katrin , Melk Anette , Boethig Dietmar , Bara Christoph , Hilfiker Andres , Berliner Dominik , Bauersachs Johann , Hilfker-Kleiner Denise , Eberhard Jörg , Stiesch Meike , Schippert Cordula , Haverich Axel , Tegtbur Uwe , Haufe Sven
Published: January 2020

BackgroundTo test the effects of guided endurance training on work ability in middle-aged female hospital workers of various occupations. Methods We randomized 265 healthy, sedentary, middle-aged women (45-65 years) to an endurance training group (EG 210 min/week) or a wait-list control group (CG). At baseline and at 6-month follow-up, we assessed work ability (Work Ability Index [WAI]), physical activity (Freiburger activity questionnaire) and peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) by cardiopulmonary exercise testing. To examine the influence of baseline work ability, participants were divided into poor-moderate (WAI 1, 7-36 points, n=83), good (WAI 2, 37-43 points, n=136) and excellent (WAI 3, 44-49 points, n=46) WAI subgroups.ResultsCardiorespiratory fitness improved significantly after 6 months in the EG but not in the CG. The WAI total score increased significantly in the EG (38.3±5.0 to 39.8±4.9 points) but not in the CG (39.4±4.7 to 39.3±4.9 points), with a significant difference between groups (p<0.01). In the EG, only the poor-moderate subgroup (WAI 1, 33.0±2.9 to 36.6±4.8 points, p<0.05) increased the WAI total score, with this increase being significantly higher compared to the good (WAI 2, 40.2±2.1 to, 40.4±3.7 points) and excellent (WAI 3, 45.6±1.5 to 45.7±1.8 points) subgroup.ConclusionsA 6-month guided exercise training intervention significantly increases cardiorespiratory fitness with concomitant improvements in work ability in middle-aged previously sedentary hospital employees. Women with low baseline work ability seem to particularly benefit from the intervention, which implies that similar interventions may be particularly beneficial for this group of individuals.
Prevalence and determinants of undernutrition among children of local farmers in central Malawi
Authors: Chilanga Emmanuel
Published: January 2020

Background Child undernutrition is a public health problem in Malawi. In 2015, about 23% of child mortality was linked to the phenomenon. Child undernutrition is more prevalent in rural areas and there is limited data to inform rural-specific programs. The aims of this study are to examine the prevalence and risk factors of undernutrition among 0-59 months-old children in rural central Malawi. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used. A total of 538 child/mother dyads were systematically selected from postnatal clinics. Anthropometric assessment techniques and socio-demographic questionnaire was used to collect data. Child Z-scores for anthropometric data were calculated using World Health Organization’s (WHO) anthro v3.2.2. Logistic regressions were used to determine correlates of undernutrition. Results The rates of stunting, underweight, and wasting were 42%, 11%, and 3%, respectively. In multivariable logistic regression models, household limited access to safe water, and maternal exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) were risk factors of child stunting ( OR =1.72, CI : 1.13-2.61) and ( OR =1.505, CI : 1.001-2.261) respectively. Child deworming, born at a low weight, and household food insecurity were some of risk factors of child underweight ( OR = 2.14, CI: 1.18-3.89), ( OR = 2.41, CI : 1.23-4.71), and ( OR = 1.89, CI : 1.01-3.51) respectively. Households that were near domestic water supply had low risk of registering wasted children than households that were far from water supply ( OR = 0.18, CI: 0.41-0.79). Conclusions Only the prevalence of child stunting is greater in central Malawi compared to national level. This study suggest that programs that can promote access to potable water, food security, child deworming, improving child birth weight, and reduction of IPV against mothers can reduce the risk of child undernutrition.
Genomic characterization of fecal microbial communities in severely sick humans and broiler chickens using next generation sequencing
Authors: Afridi Ome Kalsoom , Ali Johar , Chang Jeong Ho
Published: January 2020

BackgroundMicrobiota plays an important role in food safety and its alteration poses a serious threat to humans. Comparative microbiome profiling using next-generation sequencing (NGS) enabled the understanding of microbial diversity and similarity between different species. In this study, we used NGS to profile the fecal microbiota of sick human and broiler chickens. A total of 26 fecal samples were collected from severely sick human subjects (n= 13) and broiler chickens (n=13) with similar symptoms.ResultsThe total number of microbial species detected in broiler chickens fecal microbiota was higher than that of humans. Phylum Proteobacteria was the most abundant in both human and broiler chickens fecal microbiota while Tenericutes was found to be least abundant in both species. Phylum Actinobacteria was found only in the human fecal microbiota. In both humans and broiler chickens, E.coli was found to be phylogenetically related suggesting a microbial association between both species.ConclusionNGS based taxonomic profiling revealed the association of microbial dysbiosis with extreme sickness in both humans and broiler chickens. The dominance of phylum Proteobacteria in both the species ascertains their altered gut microbiota. Both human and broiler chickens microbial communities were found to be genetically related indicating horizontal transfer of microbes between the two species.
Discussion on rationality of administration of Angong Niuhuang Pills from pharmacological and toxicological perspectives
Authors: Chen Jianzhao , Chai Yushuang , He Yuanfeng , Huang Jisheng , Wan Ting , Lu Yuan , Peng Zilun , Li Wenjuan , Ning Na , Guo Qiuping
Published: January 2020

Background: Investigate the different treatment course of ANP from pharmacology and toxicology to provide scientific basis for clinic use. Method: In pharmacology study, cerebral ischemia-reperfusion model was made; rats were divided into six groups, Sham, model, aspirin 25 mg/kg, ANP 270 mg/kg (1 day, 4 days and 7 days) groups. Rats were fed for 30 days. Neurological function, cerebral infraction volume, brain histopathology, cytokines were detected; in toxicology study, rats were divided into four groups, normal control, ANP (550, 1640, 4910 mg/kg) group. ANP was daily administered by gavage for 30 days. Detection indicators included appearance, behavior, excrement character, food-intake, body weight, hematological parameters, etc. In addition, biomarkers such as TBA, GSTα, Cystatin C, clusterin, GSH, S-100B and MBP were also detected. Result: In pharmacology study, compared with model group, the neurological function scores of ANP 270mg/kg (1 day, 4 days and 7 days) were decreased (P<0.11 or P<0.05); the volume of ANP 270mg/kg (1 day and 7 days) were decreased (P<0.05); the R value of ANP 270mg/kg (1 day, 4 days and 7 days) groups were decreased (P<0.11 or P<0.05); the serum content of IL-1β, TNFα and NO of ANP 270 mg/kg(1 day, 4 days and 7 days) groups were decreased (P< 0.05); the brain content of IL-1β and NO of ANP 270 mg/kg(1 day, 4 days and 7 days) groups were decreased (P<0.05). In toxicology study, no mortality, ophthalmic abnormalities were identified. Compared with normal control group, body weights were significantly lower in ANP 4910 mg/kg group; TBA was significantly increased in ANP 4910mg/kg group; liver organ coefficient of female rats of ANP 4910 mg/kg group was increased (P < 0.05); kidney organ coefficient of male rats of ANP 1640mg/kg, 4910 mg/kg groups were increased (P < 0.05), these all recovered after drug withdraw for 8 weeks. Conclusion: The effect of ANP 270 mg/kg (7 days) was much better than ANP (1 day and 4 days). ANP 550mg/kg is non toxicity dose. So, ANP is taken one pill peer day for 7 days is safety and effective, it can be used as the scientific basis for clinic use.
Low serum triglyceride response to a high-fat meal is associated with elevated postprandial IL-17 and discriminative gut bacterial features.
Authors: Wilson Stephanie M , Maes Adam P. , Peach Jesse T. , Bothner Brian , Yeoman Carl J. , Walk Seth T. , Miles Mary P.
Published: January 2020

Background Postprandial lipemia stimulates proinflammatory mediators and is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Chronic disease and diet are known to influence the gut microbial community in ways that alter the availability of bioactive compounds capable of influencing the host. The purpose of this study was to identify gut microbiome taxa and inflammatory cytokines differentiating individuals with lower and higher postprandial triglyceridemia. Methods A high-fat meal (43.1% fat) was given to 40 healthy, overweight and obese adults to assess the serum triglyceride response in the immediate four-hour postprandial period. Participants were categorized into two groups (high and low) based on serum triglyceride responses. We measured blood lipids, inflammatory cytokines, fat mass, visceral adiposity and used 16S rRNA target amplicon sequencing to identify microbial taxa in human fecal samples distinguishing the two groups. The gut microbiome was assessed using unconstrained ordination, followed by a high-dimensional class comparison to determine discriminative microbial features of the postprandial triglyceride response (ppTG). ResultsHigh ppTG responders had higher body mass index, visceral adiposity, and fasting serum cholesterol levels than low responders and had a decreased postprandial IL-17 response to the high-fat meal. The overall gut microbiome did not cluster by ppTG response but were found to have four discriminative bacterial features between high and low ppTG. Lower relative abundance of Clostridium Cluster XIVa and higher relative abundance of Pasteurellaceae, Alistipes , and Prevotella was observed in low ppTG relative to high ppTG. Conclusions Our findings suggest that specific gut microbial taxa involved in short-chain fatty acid production can discriminate the postprandial triglyceride response in overweight and obese adults. These findings may have implications in how we develop microbial therapies and choose to monitor and treat individuals with hypertriglyceridemia or who may have an increased risk of chronic disease.
A 16S ribosomal RNA TaqMan real-time reverse transcription PCR for specific detection of Salmonella in blood
Authors: Rutanga Jean Pierre , Block Tessa de , Vandelannoote Koen , Puyvelde Sandra Van , Cafmeyer Josephine , Hardy Liselotte , Muvunyi Claude Mambo , Jacobs Jan , Deborggraeve Stijn
Published: January 2020

Background : The Gram -negative bacterium Salmonella enterica is an important human pathogen causing a huge public health burden worldwide. Reference diagnosis of Salmonella bloodstream infections (BSI) in patients is based on in vitro blood culture followed by biochemical and serotype identification. We have developed a TaqMan real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) assay for the specific detection of Salmonella 16S rRNA molecules. The specificity was confirmed on a bacterial test panel grown in 5 ml BBL TM culture medium broth, comprising of six Salmonella enterica serovars (Typhi, Paratyphi A, Typhimurium, Enteritidis, Heidelberg and Weltevreden) and 10 non- Salmonella bacterial species that are known to cause human BSI.Results : The limit of detection (LOD) of the assay in serial dilutions of purified Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium RNA was 40 pg RNA per reaction, corresponding to ~2500 colony forming units (CFU). When applied directly in blood experimentally spiked with Salmonella Typhimurium, the assay showed an LOD of 10 5 CFU/ml which is 100x more sensitive than 16S rDNA detection using the same primers and probe set. In 10 ml whole blood spiked with Salmonella Typhimurium at 5 CFU/ml followed by incubation in an automatic blood culture instrument, the assay detected 16S rRNA after 10 hours incubation compared to 12 hours for 16S rDNA detection.Conclusion : Although prior in vitro incubation of blood samples is required, we here delivered the proof-of-concept of specific detection of Salmonella in clinical specimens by targeting its 16S rRNA molecule.
AMPK/mTOR-mediated therapeutic effect of metformin on myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in diabetic rat
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhang Xiaochun , Guan Lihua , Zhou Daxin , Ge Junbo
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND: The autophagy associated signalling pathways such as AMPK/mTOR previously were suggested to play a crucial role in protecting from ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of metformin (DMBG) on autophagy during myocardial IRI with diabetes mellitus (DM). METHODS: The DM rat model was established using streptozocin, and further induced ischemia model via transitory ligation of the left anterior coronary artery and following reperfusion. The model rats were treated with 400 mg/kg/day DMBG for one week. Autophagosomes were investigated using transmission electron microscopy. Autophagy-associated signalling pathways were detected by western blot. RESULTS: The myocardial infarct size was shown to significantly increase in the DM rats exposed to IRI compared to negative control, but decrease in DMBG treated. The mature autophagosomes were elevated in infarction and marginal zones of DM+IRI+DMBG compared to DM+IRI. Furthermore, the increasing protein levels of LC3-II, BECLIN 1, autophagy related 5 (ATG5) and AMP-activated protein kinase suggested activated autophagy-associated intracellular signalling AMPK and mTOR pathways upon DMBG treated. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, the outcomes demonstrated that DMBG could activate autophagy process to provide a cardio-protective effect against DM induced myocardial IRI.
Revisiting Sequential Attributable fractions
Authors: Ferguson John , O'Connell Maurice , O'Donnell Martin
Published: January 2020

Background: Eide and Gefeller [1] introduced the concepts of sequential and average attributable fractions as methods to partition the risk of disease to differing exposures. In particular, sequential attributable fractions are interpreted in terms of an incremental reduction in disease prevalence associated with removing a particular risk factor from the population, having removed other risk factors. Clearly, both concepts are causal entities, but are not usually estimated within a causal inference framework.Methods: We propose causal definitions of sequential and average attributable fractions using the potential outcomes framework. To estimate these quantities in practice, we model exposure-exposure and exposure-disease interrelationships using a causal Bayesian network, assuming no unobserved variables. This allows us to model not only the direct impact of removing a risk factor on disease, but also the indirect impact through the effect on the prevalence of causally downstream risk factors that are typically ignored when calculating sequential and average attributable fractions. The procedure for calculating sequential attributable fractions involves repeated applications of Pearl’s do-operator over a fitted Bayesian network, and simulation from the resulting joint probability distributions.Results: The methods are applied to the INTERSTROKE study, which was designed to quantify disease burden attributable to the major risk factors for stroke. The resulting sequential and average attributable fractions are compared to results to a prior estimation approach which uses a single logistic model and which does not properly account for differing causal pathways.Conclusions: In contrast to estimation using a single regression model, the proposed approaches allow consistent estimation of sequential, joint and average attributable fractions under general causal structures.
Epistasis and Quantitative Resistance to Pyricularia oryzae Revealed by GWAS in Advanced Rice Breeding Populations
Authors: Rosas Juan Eduardo , Escobar Maia , Martínez Sebastián , Blanco Pedro , Pérez Fernando , Quero Gaston , Gutiérrez Lucía , Bonnecarrère Victoria
Published: January 2020

Background: Rice blast caused by Pyricularia oryzae is a major rice disease worldwide. Despite the detailed knowledge on major resistance genes available to date, little is known about how these genes interact with quantitative blast resistance loci and with the genetic background. Knowledge on these interactions is crucial for assessing the usefulness of introgressed resistance loci in breeding germplasm. Our goal was to identify blast resistance loci in rice breeding populations and to describe how they interact among each other and with the genetic background. To that end, resistance to blast was mapped in two advanced rice breeding populations, one made of 305 indica type inbred lines, and the other of 245 tropical japonica inbred lines. The interactions and main effects of blast resistance loci were assessed in a multilocus model. Results: Well known, major effect blast resistance gene clusters were detected in both tropical japonica (Pii/Pi3/Pi5) and indica (Piz/Pi2/Pi9) populations with the GWAS scan 1. When these major effect loci were included as fixed cofactors in subsequent GWAS scans 2 and 3, additional QTL and more complex genetic architectures were revealed. The multilocus model for the tropical japonica population showed that Pii/Pi3/Pi5 had significant interaction with two QTL in chromosome 1 and one QTL in chromosome 8, together explaining 64% of the phenotypic variance. In the indica population a significant interaction among the QTL in chromosomes 6 and 4 and the genetic background, together with Piz/Pi2/Pi9 and QTL in chromosomes 1, 4 and 7, explained 35% of the phenotypic variance.Conclusions: Our results suggest that epistatic interactions can play a major role modulating the effect of major effect blast resistance loci such as Pii/Pi3/Pi5. Furthermore, the additive and epistatic effects of multiple QTL bring additional layers of quantitative resistance with a magnitude comparable to that of major effect loci. These findings highlight the need of genetic background-specific validation of markers for molecular assisted blast resistance breeding and provide insights for developing quantitative resistance to blast disease in rice.