bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVOLUTION OF ANTHROPONYMS: TRANSFORMATION IN THE NAMING OF NEWBORN BABIES AND ITS ROLE FOR SOCIETY IN THE PERIOD OF LINGUISTIC TRANSITION
Authors: Aliakbarovа Aigerim , Madiyeva Gulmira , Xiao Chen
Published: October 2020

Purpose of the study: The study is aiming to show that name is a kind of social identification code, i.e., the names serve important social and legal functions that contribute to the identification of the person in society, allowing joining various social institutions. The functioning of personal names plays a significant role in the lives of every member of society.

Methodology: The authors of the research article offer an empirical exploration of the transformation of naming newborns in the Republic of Kazakhstan. More specifically, the paper utilizes a grounded theory research procedure to investigate the transformations in the naming of newborn babies in Kazakhstan from the pre-Soviet times to the present.

Main Findings: The authors indicated that from the pre-Soviet times, the changes in naming systems in Kazakhstan have been consistent with the socio-cultural and political events of each era recognizing, appreciating, and accommodating Kazakh identities, histories, languages, and cultures. The names should serve as beacon lights that imbue in them self-esteem, health, and wellbeing on the path of their adulthood.

Applications of this study: The factual material, scientific results, and conclusions can be widely used in onomastic research, special courses on the theory of onomastics, on Kazakh anthroponymy, comparative onomastics, in lectures on semantics, word formation, lexicography. The results of the research can provide an opportunity for linguists, sociologists, psychologists, cultural scientists, etc. to draw appropriate conclusions on the formation of the national language and national consciousness.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The paper carries implications for contemporary anthroponyms. It is important to consider traditional thought as a viable knowledge source for naming newborns and conceptualizing research in anthroponyms, this does not mean the denunciation of newborn naming practices borrowed from other cultures in favor of traditional naming practices. Every newborn is named by the parents for a purpose and a reason.
Use of controlled release organic mineral fertilizer in soybean crop
Authors: Xavier de Sousa Robson Thiago , Couto Molinar Henrique Bruna , Couto Molinar Henrique Leonardo , Henrique Humberto
Published: October 2020

This work aims to investigate the efficiency of a novel organic mineral fertilizer produced with filter cake residue from sugarcane mills. The novel fertilizer was developed based on the mixing of minerals with an organic compost, conditioning, and pelletizing of mixture. The minerals consist of conventional soluble mineral nutrients and the organic phase consists of insoluble filter cake compost obtained from an assisted composting process. Efficiency of conventional and organic mineral fertilizers was measured in real field soybean crop through a randomized block design with four replications. Variables analyzed were productivity, NPK nutrient in leaves. The experiment was carried out in Tupaciguara/MG, Brazil. Experimental results showed higher soybean productivity and leaf nitrogen content in the organic mineral treatments than mineral ones in all dosages tested, with statistical relevance for 80% and 100% NPK dosages.
Influence of partitioning methods on computational cost of cfd simulations applied to hydrocyclones
Authors: Da Costa Felipe Orlando , Barcelos Mateus Felipe Leonardo , Petri Júnior Irineu
Published: October 2020

In simulations, when using multipartitioned computers, the way in which the mesh is partitioned directly affects the average time per iteration, and therefore, the computational cost. This study proposes an analysis of the average time per iteration of 23 different partition methods available for tridimensional mesh in software FLUENT 19.2. For the calculation of the average iteration time, 100 iterations were used. Generally, the best partitioning methods were those in which the mesh division was made perpendicularly to the axis of the equipment. It was stated the choice of an adequate partitioning method can save high costs of computational power. For the hydrocyclone studied, with a computer with 8 cores, approximately 24.56 hours of simulation were saved, representing almost 20% of the total time.
Response surface methodology to model the electrostatic precipitation of nanoparticles at low air velocities
Authors: Estarque de Oliveira Alessandro , Giovana Guerra Vádila
Published: October 2020

Baixas velocidades de ar não são totalmente exploradas no campo de precipitação eletrostática devido às limitações de escala em equipamentos industriais, embora tenham fornecido altas eficiências de coleta de nanopartículas em estudos realizados em escala laboratorial. Visando contribuir com a ciência de precipitação eletrostática, um planejamento fatorial 3² completo foi realizado para avaliar o efeito de condições operacionais (voltagens de -8.0 a -8.2 kV e velocidades do ar de 1.67 a 19.9 cm s-1) sobre a eficiência mássica global de precipitação eletrostática de nanopartículas de KCl (5.94–224.7 nm). Metodologia de Superfície de Resposta foi usada para obter a faixa de condições operacionais que forneciam as maiores eficiências. A maior eficiência percentual (99.870 ± 0.008) foi obtida para -8.2 kV e 6.67 cm s-1. Um modelo polinomial ajustou bem os dados experimentais (R² = 0.99217).
Integration of Community pharmacy and pharmacists in primary health care policies in Argentina
Authors: Armando Pedro D. , Uema Sonia A. , Vega Elena M.
Published: October 2020

Argentina is a federal republic with approximately 44 million people, divided into 23 provinces and an autonomous city, Buenos Aires. The health system is segmented into public, social security and private subsystems. The social security and private sectors cover more than 60% of the population. Total health expenditure in 2017 was 9.4% of gross domestic product. Primary health care (PHC) was considered as the principal strategy for universal coverage policy for health system reform in Latin America at the end of 20th century. The most remarkable characteristics of the Argentinian health system are its fragmentation and disorganization. An increase of public sector demands, due to a socioeconomic crisis, led to the subsequent collapse of the system, caused primarily by a sustained lack of investment. First care level decentralization to the Integral Health Service Delivery Networks (IHSDN) becomes the cornerstone of a PHC-based system. Pharmacists and community pharmacies are not formally mentioned in PHC policies or IHSDN. However, pharmacies are recognized as healthcare establishments as part of the first care level. Community pharmacists are the only health care professional whose profit comes from the margin on product sales. Contracts with social security and private insurances provide small margins which reduce the viability of community pharmacies. There is a preference by community pharmacies to diversify product sales instead of providing professional services. This is driven by marketing and economic pressures rather than patient care and health policies. Dispensing is the main professional activity followed by management of minor illness and associated product recommendations. Currently, there are no national practice guidelines or standard operating procedures for the provision of pharmaceutical services and there is no nationally agreed portfolio of services. National pharmacy organizations appear to have no official strategic statements or plans which would guide community pharmacies. There are some isolated experiences in community pharmacies and in public first care level pharmacies that demonstrate the possibilities and opportunities for implementing pharmaceutical services under the PHC approach. There is a real lack of integration of community pharmacies and pharmacists in the healthcare system.
Development of Standard Manufacturing Process of Joshanda
Authors:   Department of IlmulSaidla (Unani Pharmacy), Rajasthan Unani Medical College & Hospital, Jaipur 302031, Rajasthan, Ahmad Imtiyaz
Published: October 2020

Unani System of Medicine (USM) has many safe and effective single drugs as well as compound formulations, which are commonly used in four forms solid (Hab, Qurs, Safoof, Kushta etc.); semisolid (Majoon, Laooq, Marham/Zamad etc.); liquid (Joshanda, Sharbat, Sheera, Rooh, Tila etc.) and gaseous (Bakhoor, Inkabab, Shamoom etc.). Joshanda, a preparation, in which Unani crude drugs are frequently used for treatment of common cold, catarrh, cough, associated respiratory distress and fever etc. Different Joshande are available in various Qarabadeen. In this paper a comprehensive summary has been made about various Joshande, about the drug and water ratio, yield of Joshanda and therapeutic uses of various Joshande, which is mentioned in different reference books of Unani System of Medicine. Documented evidence regarding their standard procedures of preparation/process standardization is meagre. Some important points are not specifically given, in the case of preparation of Joshandai.e quantity of heat and duration of heat. Therefore in the present study, apart from literature survey, one experimental study was also done by preparing different batches of Joshanda in different volumes (one litre, five litres and ten litres) at specific temperatures and observed the duration of heating and net volume of product left was also observed after giving suitable temperature. Keywords: Unani System of Medicine (USM), Standard Manufacturing Process (SMP), Joshanda, Decoction
Post Corona World – “Heroes and Higher Education Fighting the Battle COVID – 19
Authors:   Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Vital Biotech Research and Training Institute, Kota, Rajasthan, Mehta Jitendra
Published: October 2020

Viruses as we all know are the connecting link of living & non-living & also there mutation rate is very high and the specific treaterments are very rare and one such newly discover virus is COVID-19 by which we all are fighting. It was first recognized by WHO on 4th January 2020 in Wuhan, Hubei province and on 5 January 2020, WHO published our first Disease Outbreak News on the new virus. In INDIA COVID-19 was first reported on 30th January 2020. This covid-19 spreads via air or fomite borne. To be safe and avoid spreading of infection government took the step of lockdown and request country to cooperate by wearing masks and qurantime themselves for their safety. Covid-19 where took education on online platform on the other hand it come up with the real heroes of the nation. Keywords: Novel Corona Virus 2019, Spread, Pandemic, Lockdown, Education industry, Real heroes, Cloud computing, Online grocery, Video conferencing
Development of light rail transport in the Chinese highland town Chungking
Authors:   Ural state university of railway transport (USURT), Samuylov Valeriy M. , Gashkova Lyudmila V. ,   Ural state university of railway transport (USURT), Bronnikov Sergey A. ,   Ural state university of railway transport (USURT), Kuizhuang Huang ,   Ural state university of railway transport (USURT)
Published: October 2020

The article discloses the concept and essence of light rail transport as exemplified by the Chinese town Chungking. It is a large modern megapolis, centre of economic, financial, scientific and technological innovations, navigation, commerce and logistics of China. The analysis of transport system and economy development peculiarities of Chungking and its surroundings is given. The international experience of light rail transport is examined.
Assessment of performance reliability of transformers
Authors:   Ural state university of railway transport (USURT), Okunev Alexander V. , Ivanova Anastasia A. ,   Ural state university of railway transport (USURT), Philipiev Alexander A. ,   Ural state university of railway transport (USURT)
Published: October 2020

Increase of freight traffic resulted in increased loads on traction substations and, respectively, in increase of their equipment failure risks. In the context of maintaining the required voltage level and power quality, which determine appropriate values in reliability for traction substation transformers, the article looks upon solving the problem of determination of reliability essential parameters. A proposed calculation model makes it possible to simplify the choice of electrical apparatus for uninterrupted power supply of electric rolling stock traction.
Calculation of economic indicators of a hybrid diesel locomotive
Authors:   LLC “TsIR STM”, Sikorskiy Evgeny S.
Published: October 2020

Currently the issue about moving away from fossil fuels towards alternative sources is becoming more acute. The battery has its own specific capacity, so being in use on a daily basis it needs to be charged, this leading to downtime of the locomotive. Therefore it is suggested to put the battery set not in the locomotive but in a separate section, which will be detached and charged. Another section is attached to the locomotive and continues its work. The battery set itself is placed on the frame with bogies and engines. This will make it possible to equalize traction forces of a less powerful locomotive with a more powerful one. With further technology development such section, having its own engines and control equipment, can travel as a driverless locomotive. The idea is put forward to examine economic effect from ТЭМ10 diesel locomotive with a power unit , having batteries and different manufacturing technology in comparison with ТЭМ14 diesel locomotive
The effects of leaf removal and artificial shading on the composition of Chardonnay and Pinot noir grapes
Authors: Ghiglieno Isabella , Mattivi Fulvio , Cola Gabriele , Trionfini Davide , Perenzoni Daniele , Simonetto Anna , Gilioli Gianni , Valenti Leonardo
Published: October 2020

Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of leaf removal and bunch shading on the analytical composition of Pinot noir and Chardonnay (Vitis vinifera L.) grapes suitable for making premium sparkling wine.Method and results: Total bunch defoliation (TD) and different treatments using shading nets (TD1L, TD2L and ND1L) were evaluated in comparison with a test with no defoliation and shading (ND) over three seasons in the southern part of Franciacorta, one of the most famous Italian sparkling wine regions. Micrometeorological variables, yield components, musts and grapes chemical composition were evaluated. Shading practices lead to a delay in ripening and they improve the acidic content of must, thus resulting in a potential improvement in the quality of juice suitable for producing sparkling wines. Furthermore, this particular type of vine canopy management leads to changes in the phenolic content of grapes.Conclusions: From the results obtained it was possible to underline the positive effect - delaying ripening, preserving acid concentration and reducing flavonol content - of shading on the composition of Pinot noir and Chardonnay grapes suitable for making premium sparkling wine.Significance of the study: This study shows the importance of shading, because it delays grape ripening and thereby preserves the acidic content of musts and, specifically, deals with the problem of early ripening related to the climate change now underway.
Influence of Plasma Heating on the Metallurgical Effects of a Continuous Casting Tundish
Authors: Ye Maolin , Zhao Mengjing , Chen Sai , Yang Shufeng , Li Jingshe
Published: October 2020

Steel products have experienced long-standing problems such as unstable product quality and low product homogeneity. In the continuous casting process, realizing constant temperature pouring is an effective way to improve product homogeneity. Plasma heating can compensate for the temperature drop during casting with a tundish and maintain a stable degree of superheating of the molten steel in the tundish. Plasma heating has a certain impact on the cleanliness of the molten steel and on the tundish covering flux in the tundish while compensating for the temperature drop. This paper uses SEM-EDS, XRD and FactSage to analyze the cleanliness of the molten steel and the characteristics of the tundish covering flux before and after heating. The results show that the number density of inclusions in the tundish is significantly lower after heating, improving the floating removal rate of small-sized inclusions; after heating, the surface morphology of the tundish covering flux sample appears transparent and glassy, with uniform morphology; XRD results show that the tundish covering flux after plasma heating exhibits no crystal precipitation and is amorphous and that there is a certain regularity before and after heating; there are no obvious changes in the composition of the tundish covering flux in the liquid phase area.
Molecular Identification of Fusarium Spp. Isolated From Wheat Based on Sequencing of Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) Region
Authors: Gencheva Deyana , Beev Georgi
Published: October 2020

Molecular identification via Internal Transcribed Spacer region (nrDNA-ITS) sequencing of Fusarium spp. isolates from wheat originated from Stara Zagora region, were performed for the first time in Bulgaria. А total of 60 wheat samples (Triticum aestivum) were morphologically identified at the genus level as Fusarium spp. in advance. The rDNA-ITS region of all isolates was successfully amplified and the PCR products obtained were directly sequenced. After a comparison of detected sequences with NCBI database, members of three different fungal genera (Fusarium, Chaetomium, and Alternaria) were identified. Among Fusarium isolates, the F. tricinctum was prevailing, followed by F. poae. A total of three isolate F. proliferatum, F. graminearum and F. equiseti were presented with a single probe. The lowest genetic distance (0.004) was detected between F. tricinctum isolates. On the base of genetic distances, fungal isolates were grouped in two main clusters – one comprising F. tricinctum isolates and F. proliferatum, and second including F. equiseti, F. graminearum and F. poae. It could be concluded that the rDNA-ITS genome region of the genus Fusarium may be used as a suitable marker of early detection, accurate and reliable identification of Fusarium spp. contamination of wheat. The timely and accurate information would assist in the selection of appropriate approaches for control of fusarium infections and possible mycotoxins contamination of agricultural production.
IRRISENS: An IoT Platform Based on Microservices Applied in Commercial-Scale Crops Working in a Multi-Cloud Environment
Authors: Filev Maia Rodrigo , Ballester Lurbe Carlos , Agrahari Baniya Arbind , Hornbuckle John
Published: October 2020

Research has shown the multitude of applications that IoT, cloud computing and forecast technologies present in every sector. In agriculture, one application is the monitoring of factors that influence crop development to assist in making crop management decisions. Research on the application of such technologies in agriculture has been mainly conducted at small experimental sites or under controlled conditions. This research has provided relevant insights and guidelines for the use of different types of sensors, application of a multitude of algorithms to forecast relevant parameters as well as architectural approaches of IoT platforms. However, research on the implementation of IoT platforms at the commercial scale is needed to identify platform requirements to properly function under such conditions. This article evaluates an IoT platform (IRRISENS) based on fully replicable microservices used to sense soil, crop and atmosphere parameters, interact with third party cloud services, planning and scheduling irrigation as well as control of irrigation water control devices. The proposed IoT platform was evaluated during one growing season at four commercial scale farms on two different broadacre irrigated crops with very different water management requirements (rice and cotton). Five main requirements for IoT platforms to be used in agriculture at commercial scale were identified from implementing IRRISENS in rice and cotton production: scalability, flexibility, heterogeneity, robustness to failure and security. The platform addressed all these requirements. The results showed that the microservice approach followed in the platform is robust against both intermittent and critical failures in the field that could occur in any of the monitored sites. Further, processing or storage overload caused for any reason at one farm did not affect the performance of the platform regarding the other monitored farms. This paper also discusses how the microservice approach can address the data heterogeneity issue when crops with different management requirements are monitored. Since there are no shared microservices among farms, the IoT platform proposed here also provides data isolation maintaining data confidentiality for each user, which is relevant in a commercial farm scenario.
Application of Machine Learning in Cricket and Predictive Analytics of IPL 2020
Authors: Sinha Anurag
Published: October 2020

In cricket, particularly the twenty20 format is most watched and loved by the people, where no one can guess who will win the match until the last ball of the last over. In India, The Indian Premier League (IPL) started in 2008 and now it is the most popular T20 league in the world. So we decided to develop a machine learning model for predicting the outcome of its matches. Winning in a Cricket Match depends on many key factors like a home ground advantage, past performances on that ground, records at the same venue, the overall experience of the players, record with a particular opposition, and the overall current form of the team and also the individual player. This paper briefs about the key factors that affect the result of the cricket match and the regression model that best fits this data and gives the best predictions. Cricket, the mainstream and widely played sport across India which has the most noteworthy fan base. Indian Premier League follows 20-20 format which is very unpredictable. IPL match predictor is a ML based prediction approach where the data sets and previous stats are trained in all dimensions covering all important factors such as: Toss, Home Ground, Captains, Favorite Players, Opposition Battle, Previous Stats etc, with each factor having different strength with the help of KNIME Tool and with the added intelligence of Naive Bayes network and Eulers strength calculation formula.
Collect and Treat Urban Wastewater to Fight the Pandemic Disease of COVID-19 Effectively
Authors: Shahraki Abdol Aziz
Published: October 2020

This paper presents multidisciplinary and innovative research concerning fighting against coronavirus through wastewater collection and treatment. Studies suggest that coronavirus exists in the wastewaters. Untreated wastewater is proved to spread the virus. Coronavirus is attacking people globally and shrinking the economy. This paper highlights the idea that the coronavirus shall be defeated with the help of wastewater collection and treatment as well. The question addressed by this paper is will communities defeat the coronavirus without well-collected and treated wastewaters? This research aims to display the role of wastewaters in the spread of coronavirus in cities and to require their collection. The methods to achieve the goals are theoretical surveys, case study strategy, mathematical modeling, statistical procedures, forecasting of future, and dialectical discussions. The findings of this research demonstrate the need for carefully collected and treated wastewaters to overcome the coronavirus. This paper gives suitable techniques to collect and treat wastewater such as wastewater stabilization ponds, bacterial reactors, and anaerobic ponds. The innovative idea of this paper, its suggested indicators to select a certain wastewater treatment technique in every city, and its outcome will assist the global community to fight the coronavirus more effectively.
Effect of Garcinia Cambogia and Green Coffee Bean in Weight Reduction
Authors: Chohan Arshad , Wasim Tayyiba , Rao Shahid , Hassan Jahan Ara , Tasneem Nasira , Z. Ali Tasnim , Shaukat Faizan
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Various studies have widely documented how weight (being overweight, underweight or obese) plays a significant role in increasing health problems and adversely affects the quality of life. Out of all the weight-related issues, obesity is the number one contributing factor for causing health problems. To overcome this factor, a trial was conducted where a drug 'Lite plus’ (Garcinia Cambogia and Green Coffee bean) was given to a select number of people for a period of three months. Materials and Methods: 'Lite Plus' is a drug which contains Garcinia cambogia 500 mg + Green Coffee Bean Extract 400 mg, with a recommended dosage of 2 tablets/day with or before meals for 3 months. Most of the patients included in our study were females suffering from obesity-related problems such as PCOs and Infertility. During the trial, all patients were given the recommended dosage of 'Lite plus', while those with diabetes had the dose amended accordingly. Results: As a result of this trial, it was found that the use of 'Lite Plus' was very effective in decreasing weight/BMI with continuous use. After 6 weeks, out of the 250 respondents participating in the trial, 232 got a reduction in their BMI, and after 12 weeks (end of the trial), 29 respondents (11.6%) reached the desired level of BMI. Conclusion: Garcinia cambogia and Green Coffee bean are effective and safe in weight reduction.
Application of a Low-Cost Cellulose-Based Bioadsorbent for the Effective Recovery of Terbium Ions from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Alcaraz Lorena , Saquinga Dayana Nathaly , López Floralba , Lima Lola de , Alguacil Francisco J. , Escudero Esther , López Félix A.
Published: October 2020

Preparation of a low-cost cellulose-based bioadsorbent from the cellulosic material extracted from the rose stems (CRS) was carried out; rose stems were considered agricultural wastes. After the required pretreatment of this waste, and its further treatment with an acidic mixture of acetic and nitric acids, the CRS product was yielded. The resulting bioadsorbent was characterized by several techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, which revealed diffraction maxima related to cellulose structure, whose calculated crystallinity index (CrI) was 75 %. In addition, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) showed signs of acetylation of the sample, also, the thermal properties of the solid was evaluated through Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed cellulose fibers before and after the adsorption process, some particles with not regular shapes were also observed. The CRS bioadsorbent was used in the effective adsorption of valuable Tb(III) from aqueous solution. The adsorption data resulted in a better fit to the Freundlich isotherm, and pseudo-second-order kinetic models; however, chemisorption had not been ruled out. Finally, desorption experiments revealed a recovery of terbium ions with an efficiency of 97 % from terbium-loaded bioadsorbent.
RAD51 May Regulate the Expression of Genes Involved in Autophagy Through Interaction with E-box Binding Proteins in Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Kang Keunsoo , Choi Yoonjung , Moon Hyeonjin , Seo Minjin , Yoon Jahyun , Beck Bo Ram , Kang Kyuho
Published: October 2020

RAD51 is a recombinase that plays a pivotal role in homologous recombination. Although the role of RAD51 in homologous recombination has been extensively studied, it is unclear whether RAD51 can be involved in gene regulation as a co-factor. In this study, we found in silico evidence that RAD51 may contribute to the regulation of genes involved in the autophagy pathway through interaction with E-box proteins such as USF1, USF2, and/or MITF in GM12878, HepG2, K562, and MCF-7 cell lines. The canonical USF binding motif (CACGTG) was significantly identified at RAD51 binding sites in all four cell lines. In addition, genome-wide USF1, USF2, and/or MITF-binding regions significantly coincided with the RAD51-binding sites in the same cell line. Interestingly, the promoters of genes associated with the autophagy pathway were significantly occupied by RAD51 in all four cell lines. Taken together, these results predicted a novel role of RAD51 that had not been addressed previously, and provided evidence that RAD51 could possibly be involved in regulating genes associated with the autophagy pathway, through interaction with E-box binding proteins.
Oocyte Selection for in Vitro Embryo Production in Livestock Species: Non-Invasive Approaches for the New Challenges of Oocyte Competence
Authors: Aguila Luis , Treulen Favian , Therrien Jacinthe , Felmer Ricardo , Valdivia Martha , C Smith Lawrence
Published: October 2020

The efficiency of producing embryos using in vitro technologies in livestock species rarely exceeds the 30 to 40% threshold, indicating that the proportion of oocytes that fail to develop after in vitro fertilization and culture is considerably large. Considering that the intrinsic quality of the oocyte is one of the main factors affecting blastocyst yield, the precise identification of non-invasive cellular or molecular markers that predict oocyte competence is of major interest to research and practical applications. The aim of this review was to explore the current literature on different non-invasive markers associated with oocyte quality in mammalian species, with an emphasis on the bovine model. Apart from some controversial findings, the presence of cycle-related structures in ovaries, a follicle size between 6 and 10 mm, large number of surrounding cumulus cells, slightly expanded investment without dark areas, large oocyte diameter (>120 microns), dark cytoplasm, and the presence of a round and smooth first polar body have been associated to better competence. In addition, the combination of oocyte and zygote selection by BCB test and spindle imaging have the potential to further optimize the identification of oocytes with better developmental competence for in vitro-derived technologies in livestock species.
Determination of Optimal Harvest Time for Preventing Seed Browning Associated With Hot Pepper Seed Maturity During Cold Storage
Authors: Park MeHea , Lee Jung-Soo , Yang Eun-Young , Do Gyung-Ran , Hong Yoon-Pyo
Published: October 2020

Chilling injury (CI), which causes seed browning in pepper, may arise following long-term cold storage, and is a major cause of postharvest losses. To explore potential strategies of minimizing the associated postharvest losses, the present study investigated the optimal pepper harvest time that could reduce levels of seed browning, in addition to the relationship between fruit maturity and seed browning. Fruit harvested 15 days after flowering (DAF) were sensitive to cold storage at 4°C and exhibited 100% seed browning (CI index, 4.0); in contrast, the seed browning rate of fruit harvested 35 DAF was 10% (CI index, 0.4) within 7 d of cold storage. Seed antioxidant activity was higher in seeds harvested at early stages (15 DAF to 20 DAF) than in seeds harvested at later stages (40 DAF to 50 DAF) at the beginning of storage. Pericarps of fruit harvested at 50 DAF exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. Lipoxygenase, catalase, and peroxidase activity, and the expression levels of cell wall-related genes, pectin methylesterase-like protein, and endo-β-1,4-glucanase were higher in seeds of immature fruit harvested 15 DAF than in seeds of mature fruit harvested 35 DAF. The endosperm separated from the seed coat in fruit harvested 35 DAF and the seeds did not brown under low-temperature storage. The lack of seed browning observed in mature fruit under low-temperature storage could be attributed to physical protection provided by the seed coat rather than cold stress resistance conferred by antioxidants.
Experience in Studying Seroprevalence to SARS-CoV-2 Virus in the Population of the Irkutsk Region during COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Popova A. Yu. , Ezhlova E. B. , Mel’nikova A. A. , Balakhonov S. V. , Chesnokova M. V. , Dubrovina V. I. , Lyalina L. V. , Smirnov V. S. , Trukhina A. G. , Perezhogin A. N. , Pyatidesyatnikova A. B. , Bryukhova D. D. , Kiseleva N. O. , Gefan N. G. , Gavrilova O. V. , Gavrilova T. A. , Lomonosova V. I. , Totolyan A. A.
Published: October 2020

Objective of the seroepidemiological study was to determine the level and structure of herd immunity to SARS-CoV-2 among the population of the Irkutsk Region during the period of an increase in the incidence of COVID-19.

Materials and methods. The content of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 was determined by ELISA applying a  reagent panel “ELISA anti-SARS-Cov-2 IgG” produced by the State Scientific Center of Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology (Obolensk).

Results and discussion. The investigation has revealed that the herd immunity of the total population of Irkutsk Region amounted to 5.8 %. The greatest share of seropositive persons was among the children aged 14–17 (13.8 %) and 1–6 (11.8 %). It has been established that the risk of infection increases by 3.1 times in case of contact with COVID-19 patients. After exposure to COVID-19, antibodies were produced in 56.5 % of the cases. The share of asymptomatic forms among seropositive residents of the Irkutsk Region reached 81.2 %. Consequently, during the chosen period of increased COVID-19 incidence among the population of Irkutsk Region low level of seroprevalence was formed. A significant proportion of asymptomatic forms of infection characterize high intensity of the latently developing epidemic process. The results obtained can be used when organizing preventive measures, including vaccination, and for forecasting morbidity rates.
Phylogenetic History of Kara Kum Desert Focus
Authors: Eroshenko G. A. , Kukleva L. M. , Al’khova Zh. V. , Balykova A. N. , Popov N. V. , Krasnov Ya. M. , Chervyakova N. S. , Kutyrev V. V.
Published: October 2020

Objective of the study was to analyze phylogenetic relation of the strains and dissemination routes of Yersinia pestis in Kara Kum desert focus in XX century.

Materials and methods. We have carried out whole genome sequencing of 8 Yersinia pestis strains isolated in Kara Kum desert focus between 1949 and 1985. We also used nucleotide sequences of 16 Y. pestis strains from neighboring foci of East and North Caspian Sea region dated 1917–2002, sequenced at the premises of RusRAPI “Microbe” on Genestudio Ion S5XL platform (Thermo Fischer Scientific). Phylogenetic analysis was performed based on 1720 identified core SNPs. Phylogenetic dendrogram was constructed using Maximum Likelihood algorithm, PhyML v. 3.1 software package, and nucleotide substitution model GTR.

Results and discussion. On the basis of whole-genome SNP analysis of Y. pestis strains from Kara Kum desert focus, West and North Caspian Sea region foci analysis of plague agent populations circulating in Turkmenistan in XX century was conducted. It has been demonstrated that three separate waves of Y. pestis dissemination swept the territory of Kara Kum desert focus. The origin of the first one, registered in 1912, plague outbreak in south-eastern part of the focus and its etiological agent remain unspecified so far. The second wave is associated with distribution of North-Aral 2.MED1 population of medieval biovar in 1949–1970, which led to the emergence of epizootic activity in 1949, as well as subsequent cases and outbreaks of plague in this territory in the middle of the XX century. In the mid-second half of the past century, one more 2. MED1 dissemination wave from the North Balkhash region hit the Kara Kum desert focus. This central-asian  population has also taken root in the natural biocoenosis of the Kara Kum focus. The data obtained testify to active processes of distribution of Y. pestis of medieval biovar in East Caspian Sea region in southern sub-zone of Eurasian deserts in XX century.
Characterization of Immunogenic and Protective Properties of the Modified Variants of the Strain Francisella tularensis 15 NIIEG
Authors: Kartseva A. S. , Kalmantaeva O. V. , Silkina M. V. , Kombarova T. I. , Pavlov V. M. , Mokrievich A. N. , Firstova V. V.
Published: October 2020

Francisella tularensis is an intracellular bacterium that causes tularemia. Progress in creating a safe and effective vaccine for the prevention of tularemia is challenging due to a lack of knowledge about immunological parameters indicative of protective adaptive immunity. Objective of the research was to assess the effect of modifications of the F. tularensis 15 NIIEG genome on the immunogenic and protective properties of F. tularensis 15/23-1ΔrecA and F. tularensis 15/23-1/sodBΔrecA strains. Materials and methods. Multi-parameter flow cytometry and the measurement of secreted cytokines were used to characterize the responses of mouse spleen lymphocytes in response to re-stimulation of F. tularensis with acid-insoluble complex (AIC) in vitro. Also, the titers of specific antibodies to F. tularensis lipopolysaccharide in blood serum were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results and discussion. It has been shown that immunization with the studied strains led to a significant increase in CD4+ and/or CD8+ T cells capable of expressing functional markers: CD69, CD25 and/or CD28; an increase in the subpopulation of T-helpers synthesizing IFN-γ. In the body of immune mice, a pool of B-lymphocytes was formed, capable of secreting IFN-γ in response to their stimulation with AIC. Immunization with the strain 15/23-1/sodBΔrecA provided 70% protection in mice from intranasal infection with a virulent strain of F. tularensis SchuS4. More pronounced protective properties were associated with the activation of not only B-lymphocytes and T-helpers, but also with the simultaneous activation of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes.
Impact of Diabetes on 90-Day Episodes of Care After Elective Total Joint Arthroplasty Among Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Na Annalisa , Middleton Addie , Haas Allen , Graham James E. , Ottenbacher Kenneth J.
Published: October 2020

Background:

In an effort to improve quality and reduce costs, reimbursement for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the United States is being based on the value of care provided, with adjustments for some qualifying comorbidities, including diabetes in its most severe form and excluding many diabetes codes. The aims of this study were to examine the effects of diabetes on elective TKA or THA complications and readmission risks among Medicare beneficiaries.

Methods:

Complication (n = 521,230) and readmission (n = 515,691) data were extracted from Medicare files in 2013 and 2014. Diabetes status (no diabetes, controlled-uncomplicated diabetes, controlled-complicated diabetes, and uncontrolled diabetes) was identified with ICD-9 (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision) codes. TKA or THA complications and readmission odds based on diabetes status were estimated using logistic regression and adjusted for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, including comorbidities.

Results:

Compared with no diabetes, the odds ratio (OR) of TKA complications was significantly higher for uncontrolled diabetes (1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06 to 1.57). The OR of THA complications was significantly higher for controlled-complicated diabetes (1.45, 95% CI = 1.17 to 1.80). The OR of readmission was significantly higher for all diabetes groups (1.21 to 1.48 for TKA, 1.20 to 1.70 for THA).

Conclusions:

Readmission odds were higher in all diabetes categories. The uncontrolled-diabetes group had the greatest TKA readmission and complication odds. The controlled-complicated diabetes group had the greatest THA readmission and complication odds. The findings suggest that including diabetes and associated systemic complications in cost adjustments in alternative payment models for arthroplasty should be considered.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
A Needs Assessment for Postgraduate Training in Selected Public Health Disciplines: Evidence from Health Services Organisations in Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Bulawayo Maio , Silumbwe Adam , Munakampe Margarate Nzala , Mukumbuta Nawa , Musabula Juliet , Chewe Mwimba , Mweemba Chris , Michelo Charles , Hangoma Peter
Published: October 2020

Background: As most low and middle-income countries seek to achieve universal health coverage targets, there is an ever-increasing need to train human resources with the required core skills and competencies. This study reports on a needs assessment conducted among health services organisations (HSOs) to understand postgraduate training needs and service gaps for selected public health disciplines – Health Policy and Systems, Health Economics, and Healthcare Management and Planning – at the University of Zambia. Methods: The study adopted a cross-sectional design, comprising qualitative and quantitative components. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews administered to 32 representatives of purposively sampled public and private health service organisations based in Lusaka Zambia. The health services organisations included regulatory authorities, research institutions, government ministries, insurance firms and other cooperating partners. Results: Overall (n=22), more than 68% of the stakeholders reported that they had no employees that were formally trained in the three disciplines. More than 90% of the stakeholders opined that training in these disciplines would be beneficial in providing competencies to strengthen service provision. The horizontal skills mismatch for health economics, and health services management and planning were found to be 93% and 100%, respectively. Among the key public health training needs were: policy development and analysis, economic evaluation, and strategic management. Conclusions: This study confirms that introducing post graduate training in the proposed public health disciplines will not only benefit Zambian health services organisations, but also help strengthen the health systems in general. For other empirical contexts, the findings imply the need for the introduction of academic programmes which respond to ever-changing public health skills demanded; and should be matched with local priorities and service delivery.
The DLC-1 tumor suppressor is involved in regulating immunomodulation of human mesenchymal stromal /stem cells through interacting with the Notch1 protein
Authors: Na Tao , Zhang Kehua , Yuan Bao-Zhu
Published: October 2020

BackgroundImmunomodulatory activities of human mesenchymal stromal /stem cells (hMSCs) has been widely recognized as the most critical function of hMSCs for exerting its therapeutic effects. However, the detailed mechanisms responsible for regulating the immunomodulation of hMSCs still remain largely unknown. Previous studies revealed that the Notch1 protein exerted a pro-immunomodulatory function probably through interacting with the protein(s) subjective to proteasome-mediated protein degradation. The DLC-1 protein represents a well characterized tumor suppressor subjective to proteasome-mediated degradation. However, the detailed signaling pathway of Notch1 and the involvement of DLC-1 in regulating the immunomodulation of hMSCs have not been studied before.MethodsThe transfection with cDNA or siRNA into hMSCs assisted by co-culture of hMSCs with peripheral blood mononuclear cells and small molecule inhibitors of signaling proteins, followed by immunoprecipitation, Western blotting, RT-PCR, and flowcytometry, were employed to characterize the Notch1 signaling, to identify DLC-1 as a candidate proteasome-targeted protein, and to characterize DLC-1 signaling pathway and its interaction with the Notch1 signaling, in the regulation of immunomodulation of hMSCs, specifically, the inhibition of pro-inflammatory CD4+-Th1 lymphocytes, and the release of immunomodulatory molecule IDO1.Statistical analysisOne-way ANOVA was utilized as a statistical tool to analyze the data presented as means ± SEM of at least three separate experiments.ResultsThe present study revealed that the Notch1-Hey1 axis, but not the Notch1-Hes1 axis, was likely responsible for mediating the pro-immunomodulatory function of the Notch1 signaling. The DLC-1 protein was found subjective to proteasome-mediated protein degradation mediated by the DDB1 and FBXW5 E3 ligases and served as an inhibitor of the immunomodulation of hMSCs through inhibiting Rock1, but not Rock2, downstream the DLC-1 signaling. The Notch1 signaling in the Notch1-Hey1 pathway and the DLC-1 signaling in the DLC-1-Rock1-FBXW5 pathway exhibited a mutual exclusion interaction in the regulation of immunomodulation of hMSCs.ConclusionsThe present study uncovers a novel function of DLC-1 tumor suppressor in regulating the immunomodulation of hMSCs. It also proposes a novel mutual exclusion mechanism between the DLC-1 signaling and the Notch1 signaling that is possibly responsible for fine-tuning the immunomodulation of hMSCs with different clinical implications in hMSCs therapy.
Decreasing incidence of pregnancy among HIV-positive adolescents in a large HIV treatment program in western Kenya between 2005 and 2017: A retrospective cohort study.
Authors: Millar Heather Christine , Keter Alfred K. , Musick Beverly S. , Apondi Edith , Wachira Juddy , MacDonald Katherine R. , Spitzer Rachel F. , Braitstein Paula
Published: October 2020

Background: The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence, incidence and risk factors for pregnancy among HIV-positive adolescents in a large HIV treatment program in western Kenya. Methods: The Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) program is a partnership between Moi University, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and a consortium of 11 North American academic institutions. AMPATH currently provides care to 85,000 HIV-positive individuals in western Kenya. Included in this analysis were adolescents aged 10-19 enrolled in AMPATH between January 2005 and February 2017. Socio-demographic, behavioural, and clinical data at baseline and time-updated antiretroviral treatment (ART) data were extracted from the electronic medical records and summarized using descriptive statistics. Follow up time was defined as time of inclusion in the cohort until the date of first pregnancy or age 20, loss to follow up, death, or administrative censoring. Adolescent pregnancy rates and associated risk factors were determined. Results: There were 8565 adolescents eligible for analysis. Median age at enrolment in HIV care was 14.0 years. Only 17.7% had electricity at home and 14.4% had piped water, both indicators of a high level of poverty. 12.9% (1104) were pregnant at study inclusion. Of those not pregnant at enrolment, 5.6% (448) became pregnant at least once during follow-up. Another 1.0% (78) were pregnant at inclusion and became pregnant again during follow-up. The overall pregnancy incidence rate was 21.9 per 1000 woman years or 55.8 pregnancies per 1000 women. Between 2005 and 2017, pregnancy rates have decreased. Adolescents who became pregnant in follow-up were more likely to be older, to be married or living with a partner and to have at least one child already and less likely to be using family planning. Conclusions: A considerable number of these HIV-positive adolescents presented at enrolment into HIV care as pregnant and many became pregnant as adolescents during follow-up. Pregnancy rates remain high but have decreased from 2005 to 2017. Adolescent-focused sexual and reproductive health and ante/postnatal care programs may have the potential to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes as well as further decrease pregnancy rates in this high-risk group.