bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An effective parameter optimization with radiation balance constraint in CAM5 (version 5.3)
Authors: Wu Li , Zhang Tao , Qin Yi , Xue Wei
Published: July 2019

Abstract. Uncertain parameters in physical parameterizations of General Circulation Models (GCMs) greatly impact model performance. In recent years, automatic parameter optimization has been introduced for tuning model performance of GCMs but most of the optimization methods are unconstrained optimization methods under a given performance indicator, so that the calibrated model may break through essential constraints that models have to keep, such as the radiation balance at top of model, which is known for its importance to the conservation of model energy. In this study, an automated and efficient parameter optimization with the radiation balance constraint is presented and applied in Community Atmospheric Model (CAM5) in terms of a synthesized performance metric using global means of radiation, precipitation, relative humidity, and temperature. The tuned parameters are from the parameterization schemes of convection and cloud. And the radiation constraint is defined as the deviation of the net longwave flux at top of model (FLNT) and net solar flux at top of model (FSNT) less than 1 W m−2. Results show that the synthesized performance under the optimal parameters is 6.3 % better than the control run (CNTL) as well as the radiation imbalance is as low as 0.1 W m−2. The proposed method provides the insight for physics-guided optimization under the premise of a profound understanding of models and it can be easily applied to optimization problems with other prerequisite constraints in GCMs.
Designing optimal automatic cycles of round grinding based on the synthesis of digital twin technologies and dynamic programming method
Authors: Pereverzev Pavel P. , Akintseva Aleksandra V. , Alsigar Masar K. , Ardashev Dmitrii V.
Published: July 2019

Abstract. The article presents methodology for designing optimal
feed control cycles resistant to unstable machining conditions for a batch
of parts in round grinding operations performed on CNC machines. To improve the quality and reliability of control programs for CNC machines, a digital twin (DT) is proposed to be used. It performs virtual testing of a given grinding cycle for the possibility of defect occurrence at some
combination of variable technological factors. To design the optimal
grinding cycle by calculating the optimum trajectory of the radial feed
change cycle, we propose the dynamic programming method (DPM) used in
solving the classical transport problem, in which a network of roads with
intermediate stations is specified. In the task it is necessary to find the
optimal trajectory of transport. The conditions for the appearance of
defects detected by the DT are introduced into the system of restrictions,
and the feed cycle is again optimized in the DPM optimization system. A new
optimized cycle is again tested by the DT. These iterations are repeated
until the DT fixes the present of a defect for the operation. The
methodology proposed in the article for the synthesis of digital twin and
DPM technologies at the stage of preparation of control programs for CNC
machines makes it possible to guarantee the maximum productivity of the
grinding operation while ensuring the specified quality of the machined
surface under varying processing conditions that vary within the specified
limits.
Search results outliers among MEDLINE platforms
Authors: Burns Christopher Sean , Shapiro II Robert M. , Nix Tyler , Huber Jeffrey T.
Published: July 2019

Objective: Hypothetically, content in MEDLINE records is consistent across multiple platforms. Though platforms have different interfaces and requirements for query syntax, results should be similar when the syntax is controlled for across the platforms. The authors investigated how search result counts varied when searching records among five MEDLINE platforms.Methods: We created 29 sets of search queries targeting various metadata fields and operators. Within search sets, we adapted 5 distinct, compatible queries to search 5 MEDLINE platforms (PubMed, ProQuest, EBSCOhost, Web of Science, and Ovid), totaling 145 final queries. The 5 queries were designed to be logically and semantically equivalent and were modified only to match platform syntax requirements. We analyzed the result counts and compared PubMed’s MEDLINE result counts to result counts from the other platforms. We identified outliers by measuring the result count deviations using modified z-scores centered around PubMed’s MEDLINE results.Results: Web of Science and ProQuest searches were the most likely to deviate from the equivalent PubMed searches. EBSCOhost and Ovid were less likely to deviate from PubMed searches. Ovid’s results were the most consistent with PubMed’s but appeared to apply an indexing algorithm that resulted in lower retrieval sets among equivalent searches in PubMed. Web of Science exhibited problems with exploding or not exploding Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms.Conclusion: Platform enhancements among interfaces affect record retrieval and challenge the expectation that MEDLINE platforms should, by default, be treated as MEDLINE. Substantial inconsistencies in search result counts, as demonstrated here, should raise concerns about the impact of platform-specific influences on search results. This article has been approved for the Medical Library Association’s Independent Reading Program.
ECRI Institute Guidelines Trust
Authors: Sender Jessica Shira
Published: July 2019

The ECRI Guidelines Trust is an appropriate resource for those looking to find current clinical practice guidelines.
Internet Research Agency Twitter activity predicted 2016 U.S. election polls
Authors: Ruck Damian J , Rice Natalie M , Borycz Joshua , Bentley R Alexander
Published: July 2019

In 2016, the Internet Research Agency (IRA) deployed thousands of Twitter bots that released hundreds of thousands of English language tweets. It has been hypothesized this affected public opinion during the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Here we test that hypothesis using vector autoregression (VAR) comparing time series of election opinion polling during 2016 versus numbers of re-tweets or ‘likes’ of IRA tweets. We find that changes in opinion poll numbers for one of the candidates were consistently preceded by corresponding changes in IRA re-tweet volume, at an optimum interval of one week before. In contrast, the opinion poll numbers did not correlate with future re-tweets or ‘likes’ of the IRA tweets. We find that the release of these tweets parallel significant political events of 2016 and that approximately every 25,000 additional IRA re-tweets predicted a one percent increase in election opinion polls for one candidate. As these tweets were part of a larger, multimedia campaign, it is plausible that the IRA was successful in influencing U.S. public opinion in 2016.
Integrating Cooperative Learning in Reading Classrooms: An Investigation of Saudi EFL Learners' Perception
Authors: Alsanie Reem , Sabir Mona
Published: July 2019

The Social Interdependence Theory offers pedagogical implications indicating that positive participation in the learning process results in higher academic and social progress. In light of this theory, this study explores Saudi EFL learners’ perceptions of cooperative learning (CL) activities in English reading classrooms. A large body of research has investigated the application of CL in language classrooms, but it has mostly focused on how implementing CL affects learners’ achievements and academic performance rather than their perceptions of CL. Therefore, this study investigates Saudi learners’ perceptions of CL in reading classrooms. The study’s participants were 64 low-level EFL learners taking a general English course as part of their preparatory year requirements. The study adopted a descriptive survey-based design. The participants were first given a language background questionnaire and the Oxford Quick Placement Test to determine their proficiency levels. Then, they were taught using a method of CL – Reciprocal Teaching – for six one-hour sessions. The learners were next given a survey questionnaire that consisted of 14 items concerning their perception of CL activities in reading classrooms after all of the Reciprocal Teaching sessions had been completed. Overall, the findings reveal that the participants have positive views of CL in reading classrooms. Based on the findings, the study offers pedagogical implications for future classroom practices.
Place Identity and Social Capital in an Appalachian Town
Authors: Holtkamp Chris , Weaver Russell
Published: July 2019

Given the growing interest in social capital as an asset in affecting positive change, a need exists to further our understanding of this concept. This research explores the relationship between social capital and place identity in Morehead, Kentucky. We utilize economic games to measure behavioral indicators of social capital, such as trust, reciprocity, and altruism. Our findings support expectations that social capital is available even in economically distressed towns and that alternative measures of social capital, suitable for larger scale analyses, may overlook this resource at the local level.
Abortion Patient Experiences of the Forty-Eight-Hour Waiting Period Policy in Tennessee
Authors: Rouland Rebecca S. , Ely Gretchen E. , Caron Amelia
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study is to examine abortion patients’ perceptions concerning a forty-eight-hour, in-person, mandatory waiting period for abortion in a state in the southeastern United States. Secondary data collected at the end of a provider intake form were analyzed to examine qualitative themes from patients’ experiences and perceptions related to the waiting period. Financial costs associated with traveling twice for the abortion appointment were also estimated. Results indicate that patients experienced notable personal and support-system barriers as a result of the waiting period. These barriers included problems with travel, transportation difficulties, interrupted employment and educational activities, problems arranging child care, financial concerns, and negative impacts on well-being, which suggest hardships and stress associated with the need to make and attend two in-person appointments with the abortion provider in order to comply with the waiting period. These barriers were often overlapping, and they led to patients reporting distress. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
Predicting spring wheat yields based on water use-yield production function in a semi-arid climate
Authors: Zhao Funian , Wang Runyuan , Zhang Kai , Lei Jun , Yu Qiang
Published: July 2019

Grain yield of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) fluctuates greatly in Western Loess Plateau of China due to limited and highly variable precipitation. Farmers in this area need a simple tool to predict spring wheat grain yield and assess yield loss risk efficiently. The objectives of this study were to establish relations between water use and grain yield of spring wheat for predicting actual yield and attainable yield (water limited yield) under conventional management practice and mulching practices. Reference data during 1993-2013 and field experiment conducted from 1987 to 2011 were used to determine water use-yield production function and boundary function for spring wheat. Probability of achieving a given spring wheat grain yield threshold is determined based on available soil water content at sowing plus expected precipitation during growing season. Single linear equation was obtained with slope of 14.6 kg ha-1 mm-1 and x intercept at 126.3 mm for spring wheat water use-yield production function with different wheat varieties under varying climatic patterns. The slopes of the boundary function were 16.2 kg ha-1 mm-1 and 19.1 kg ha-1 mm-1 under conventional management practice and mulching practices, respectively. With increase of available soil water content at sowing, the probability of achieving at least 2000 and 4000 kg ha-1 of spring wheat for actual and attainable yield increased under different agricultural management practices.
Fluidodynamic Analysis of Cylindrical Particles in Fluidized Bed With Aspect Ratio Variation
Authors: Michelotto Dionisson de Andrade , Wander Paulo Roberto
Published: July 2019

A velocidade mínima do fluido nas partículas é um parâmetro hidrodinâmico que influencia fortemente o comportamento em projetos de reatores de leito fluidizado. A maioria dos trabalhos acadêmicos utiliza como um dos principais parâmetros em suas correlações a esfericidade. Outros estudos afirmam que a razão de aspecto influencia grandemente a velocidade mínima de fluidização. Utilizando um reator de leito fluidizado, partículas de bambu cilíndricas com razões de aspecto de 2, 4 e 6 foram fluidizadas. Os resultados das velocidades mínimas de fluidização foram comparados com outros autores, onde três foram suficientemente próximos dentro de uma variação de 20% dos valores obtidos nos experimentos. Uma nova correlação foi proposta variando-se a razão de aspecto onde os valores da fluidização mínima foram muito próximos aos da experimental.
Flood Height Measurement and Analysis in Parts of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Port Harcourt Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: H. O. Nwankwoala , T. Jibril
Published: July 2019

This study was conducted on flood sensitive areas in parts of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, in order to determine the impact of flood on the residents of the area. The method of study involved field work and laboratory analysis. Field studies involved flood height measurements. Flood heights monitored and measured over a period of one week was used to determine the flood daily encroachment rates and the flood daily receding rates. Flood encroachment rates ranged from 9.47 to 19.67 cm/day in Rumuigbo, and 6.47 to 9.00 cm/day in Ozuoba. Flood recede rates ranged from 0.87 to 3.93 cm/day and 5.00 to 8.00 cm/day in Rumuigbo and Ozuoba. These results were confirmed by the high annual rainfall (2198.73 mm/hr on average) that occurs on average round the year in Rivers State. The buildings in these flood prone areas were constructed with concrete and blocks which are susceptible to cracking and failure when constantly immersed in water for prolonged time. It is therefore recommended that large sloping gutters be constructed within strategic places in the area in order to properly transport water to the nearby rivers and ensure that dumpsites around flood prone areas are evacuated to prevent contaminated water from recharging the aquifer.
Reviewer acknowledgements for International Journal of Biology, Vol. 11, No. 3
Authors: Bai Liam
Published: July 2019

Reviewer acknowledgements for International Journal of Biology, Vol. 11, No. 3, 2019
Foliar application of salicylic acid improves growth and yield attributes by upregulating the antioxidant defense system in Brassica campestris plants grown in lead-amended soils
Authors: Hasanuzzaman Mirza , Matin Md. Abdul , Fardus Jannatul , Hasanuzzaman Md. , Hossain Md. Shahadat , Parvin Khursheda
Published: July 2019

Lead (Pb) toxicity causes a severe impact on plant growth and productivity. A protective role of salicylic acid (SA) is well known under different abiotic stress conditions. However, very little is known about the SA-induced Pb resistance mechanism. In this study, we investigated the effect of SA on mustard plants (Brassica campestris L.) under Pb-stress conditions. Plants were exposed to three levels of Pb amendment to the soil (0.25, 0.50, 1.00 mM), with or without SA (0.25 mM). Plant growth, yield attributes, and yield at harvest were reduced depending on the severity of the Pb stress. Exogenous application of SA improved plant growth and yield. Biochemical data revealed that Pb toxicity resulted in higher oxidative damage by reducing nonenzymatic antioxidants such as ascorbate and glutathione at the higher dose of Pb treatment. Antioxidant enzymes (ascorbate peroxidase – APX, monodehydroascorbate reductase – MDHAR, dehydroascorbate reductase – DHAR, glutathione reductase – GR, guaiacol peroxidase – POD, glutathione S-transferase – GST, and catalase – CAT) responses varied with the Pb doses. Both the nonenzymatic and enzymatic components of the antioxidant defense system were upregulated after application of SA, resulting in lower oxidative damage under Pb-stress conditions. Taken together, the results suggest that exogenous application of the SA mitigates Pb-induced oxidative damage and consequently results in better growth and yield in mustard plants.
Agronomic biofortification as a means of enriching plant foodstuffs with iodine
Authors: Krzepiłko Anna , Prażak Roman , Skwaryło-Bednarz Barbara , Molas Jolanta
Published: July 2019

Iodine is indispensable in the diet of humans and other mammals and iodine deficiencies cause serious illnesses. The content of iodine in food (with the exception of marine foodstuffs) does not meet the nutritional needs of humans, and for this reason prophylactic iodination of salt is currently carried out in many countries. Biofortification of plants with iodine can become a widespread, alternative means of supplying iodine-rich foods. In the present study, we discuss the main issues related to the cultivation of plants enriched with iodine. We describe the effect of various forms of iodine fertilizer on crops, such as natural iodine sources, organic iodine, iodate and iodide salts, as well as ways of biofortifying crops: fertigation, foliar and soil application, and by hydroponics. Effective biofortification of plants with iodine increases its concentration to levels corresponding to human nutritional requirements whilst preserving the desirable eating qualities of the plants. Because each species reacts in a specific manner to a particular chemical form of iodine application, fertilization and cultivation methods, and other conditions, the development of proper cultivation technologies is essential to bring about widespread biofortification with iodine.
Breeding and agronomic approaches for the biofortification of zinc in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to combat zinc deficiency in millions of a population: a Bangladesh perspective
Authors: Das Shilpi , Chaki Apurbo Kumar , Hossain Akbar
Published: July 2019

The World Health Organization (WHO) has estimated that around 2 billion people across the globe are suffering from “hidden hunger”, where 815 million are under malnutrition. The major essential elements for humans are Fe, Zn, I, Se, Ca, F, and also vitamins. Among them, Zn is considered in the fifth place leading to causes of several deficiency diseases. At least one-third of the population in the world is facing Zn deficiency including around 450,000 children under the age of five. Vitamin A, Fe, and Zn deficiencies can be overcome through the biofortification of staple foodstuffs. This review emphasizes various breeding and agronomic approaches for the biofortification of Zn in wheat grains, which is an encouraging and cost-effective method to enhance the Zn contents of cereal grains. Recently, the Bangladesh Wheat and Maize Research Institute (BWMRI), with technical support from CIMMYT, Mexico, released a promising new Zn-biofortified wheat cultivar, ‘BARI Gom 33’, a result from a conventional breeding program. It has 32 and 50–55 mg kg−1 Zn without and with soil application of ZnSO4, respectively. This cultivar could be a savior for a million people in South Asia, including Bangladesh.
EDTA reduces cadmium toxicity in mustard (Brassica juncea L.) by enhancing metal chelation, antioxidant defense and glyoxalase systems
Authors: Mahmud Jubayer Al , Hasanuzzaman Mirza , Nahar Kamrun , Rahman Anisur , Fujita Masayuki
Published: July 2019

To investigate the possible role of EDTA in mitigating cadmium (Cd) toxicity, we treated mustard (Brassica juncea L.) seedlings with CdCl2 (0.5 mM and 1.0 mM, 3 days) alone and in combination with 0.5 mM EDTA in a semihydroponic medium. In the absence of EDTA, mustard seedlings accumulated Cd in their roots and shoots in a concentration dependent manner. Overaccumulation of Cd boosted generation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide anions (O2•−), increased lipoxygenase (LOX) activity, lipid peroxidation, and cytotoxic methylglyoxal (MG) content. It also disturbed components of the antioxidant defense and glyoxalase systems. Furthermore, Cd stress decreased growth, leaf relative water content (RWC) and chlorophyll (chl) content but augmented the proline (Pro) content. On the other hand, EDTA supplemented Cd-stressed seedlings improved the constituents of the AsA-GSH cycle with the upregulated activities of ascorbate peroxidase (APX), monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR), dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Moreover, addition of EDTA to the Cd-stressed seedlings notably enhanced Gly I activity in contrast to the stress treatment. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid decreased Cd accumulation in the both shoots and roots, as well as increased other nonprotein thiols (NPTs) in leaves, including the phytochelatin (PC) content. It also decreased H2O2 and O2•− generation, lipid peroxidation and MG content but enhanced RWC, chl and Pro contents in the leaves, which confirmed the improved growth of seedlings. The findings of the study suggest that exogenous application of EDTA to the Cd-treated seedlings reduces Cd-induced oxidative injuries by restricting Cd uptake, increasing NPTs concentration and upregulating most of the components of their antioxidant defense and glyoxalase systems.
Chitosan biopolymer improves the fruit quality of litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.)
Authors: Mehebub Md. Shabab , Mahmud Nur Uddin , Rahman Mosaddiqur , Surovy Musrat Zahan , Gupta Dipali Rani , Hasanuzzaman Mirza , Rahman Mahfuzur , Islam M. Tofazzal
Published: July 2019

Chitosan (CHT) is a natural compound that has been used to control postharvest pathogenic diseases due to its capability of eliciting natural defense responses in plants. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of foliar CHT application on yield and quality of the litchi fruit. Chitosan was applied by spraying on to fruit and foliage just after fruit set four times at 7-day intervals with four varying doses viz. 100, 250, 500, and 1,000 µg L−1 and a control (0 µg L−1). Although the application of CHT had no significant effect on the size of the fruits (length and width), the total contents of phenolics, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid and the antioxidant activity of litchi fruit arils were significantly increased in CHT-treated fruit compared with the untreated control. The highest phenolic, flavonoid, and ascorbic acid contents were 334 µg gallic acid g−1, 881 μg quercetin g−1, and 178 µg g−1, respectively, in fruits treated with 500 µg L−1 CHT. However, the highest antioxidant activity (622 μg butylated hydroxytoluene g−1) was recorded in 250 µg L−1 CHT-treated fruits. Our findings revealed that the application of low doses of CHT in a litchi orchard might improve fruit quality by increasing the content of antioxidants and antioxidant activities.
Mitigating the twin problems of malnutrition and wheat blast by one wheat variety, ‘BARI Gom 33’, in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Akbar , Mottaleb Khondoker Abdul , Farhad Md. , Barma Naresh Chandra Deb
Published: July 2019

For the first time in history outside of Latin America, deadly wheat blast caused by the fungus Magnaporthe oryzae pathotype triticum (MoT) emerged in the 2015–2016 wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) season of Bangladesh. Bangladesh, a country in South Asia, has a population of nearly 160 million, of which 24.3% are classified as poor. Consequently, malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency are highly prevalent, particularly among school going children and lactating women. Bangladesh Wheat and Maize Research Institute (BWMRI), with the technical support of the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), Mexico, has developed and released a new wheat ‘BARI Gom 33’. The new wheat is a zinc-enriched (Zn) biofortified wheat, resistant to the deadly wheat blast disease. ‘BARI Gom 33’ provides 5–8% more yield than the check varieties in Bangladesh. Rapid dissemination of it in Bangladesh, therefore, can not only combat wheat blast but also mitigate the problem of Zn deficiency and ensure income for resource-poor wheat farmers. Importantly, a large portion of the current wheat area in India and Pakistan is vulnerable to wheat blast, due to the similarities of the agro-climatic conditions of Bangladesh. As wheat blast is mainly a seed-borne disease, a rapid scaling out of the new wheat in Bangladesh can reduce the probability of MoT intrusion in India and Pakistan, and thereby generate positive externalities to the food security of more than 1 billion people in South Asia. This study explains the development process of ‘BARI Gom 33’; the status of malnutrition in Bangladesh, and the possible economic gain from a rapid scaling out of ‘BARI Gom 33’ in Bangladesh. A few policies are recommended based on the discussions.
Exogenous application of gibberellic acid mitigates drought-induced damage in spring wheat
Authors: Moumita - , Mahmud Jubayer Al , Biswas Parimal Kanti , Nahar Kamrun , Fujita Masayuki , Hasanuzzaman Mirza
Published: July 2019

Drought stress is a major problem in wheat production but it could be managed by using various exogenous protectants such as gibberellic acid (GA). Although GA is a plant growth hormone, it shows a potential to protect the plant in stress conditions. To investigate the possible role of GA in mitigating drought stress, we treated wheat (Triticum aestivum ‘BARI Gom-21’) seedlings with a GA spray under semihydroponic conditions. In the experiment, the combined effect of GA and drought stress (induced by 12% polyethylene glycol) was studied after 48 h and 72 h. In the absence of exogenous GA, drought-stressed wheat seedlings showed various physiological and biochemical changes in a time-dependent manner. Malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and free proline (Pro) concentrations were increased, whereas catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities were reduced under drought stress. Gibberellic acid played a role in restoring the ascorbate (AsA) level, decreased the reduced/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio and reduced monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR) and dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) activities. Gibberellic acid significantly affected the glyoxalase system. Under drought stress, the methylglyoxal (MG) concentration was increased but GA application stimulated glyoxalase I (Gly I) and glyoxalase II (Gly II) activities to protect the wheat seedlings against stress. The study concluded that the severity of drought stress in wheat depends on the growth stage and it increases with an increase in the duration of stress, whereas exogenous GA helped the seedlings to survive by upregulating antioxidant defense mechanisms and the glyoxalase system.
Perception of accountants by Polish secondary school students
Authors: Kabalski Przemysław
Published: July 2019

Perception of accountants by Polish secondary school students
Expression of lipid metabolism genes provides new insights into intramuscular fat deposition in Laiwu pigs
Authors: Wang Hui , Wang Jin , Yang Dan-dan , Liu Zong-li , Zeng Yong-qing , Chen Wei
Published: July 2019

Objective: The objective of this study was to measure the special expression pattern of lipid metabolism genes and investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying intramuscular fat (IMF) deposition in Longissimus dorsi muscle of Laiwu pigs.Methods: Thirty-six pigs (Laiwu n = 18; Duroc×Landrace×Yorkshire n = 18) were used for the measurement of the backfat thickness, marbling score, IMF content, and expression of lipid metabolism genes.Results: Significant correlations were found between IMF content and the mRNA expression of lipid metabolism genes. Of the 14 fat deposition genes measured, fatty acid synthase (FASN) showed the strongest correlation (r = 0.75, p = 0.001) with IMF content, and of the 6 fat removal genes, carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1B (CPT1B) exhibited the greatest negative correlation (r = –0.66, p = 0.003) with IMF content in Laiwu pig. Multiple regression analysis showed that CPT1B, FASN, solute carrier family 27 member 1 (SLC27A1), and fatty acid binding protein 3 (FABP3) contributed 38% of the prediction value for IMF content in Laiwu pigs. Of these four variables, CPT1B had the greatest contribution to IMF content (14%) followed by FASN (11%), SLC27A1 (9%), and FABP3 (4%).Conclusion: Our results indicate that the combined effects of an upregulation in fat deposition genes and downregulation in fat removal genes promotes IMF deposition in Laiwu pigs.
Neutral detergent fiber rather than other dietary fiber types as an independent variable increases the accuracy of prediction equation for digestible energy in feeds for growing pigs
Authors: Choi Hyunjun , Sung Jung Yeol , Kim Beob Gyun
Published: July 2019

Objective: The objectives were to investigate correlations between energy digestibility (digestible energy [DE]:gross energy [GE]) and various fiber types including crude fiber (CF), total dietary fiber (TDF), soluble dietary fiber (SDF), insoluble dietary fiber (IDF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF), and to develop prediction equations for estimating DE in feed ingredients and diets for growing pigs.Methods: A total of 289 data with DE values and chemical composition of feeds from 39 studies were used to develop prediction equations for DE. The equations were validated using values provided by the National Research Council.Results: The DE values in feed ingredients ranged from 2,011 to 4,590 kcal/kg dry matter (DM) and those in diets ranged from 2,801 to 4,203 kcal/kg DM. In feed ingredients, DE:GE was negatively correlated (p<0.001) with NDF (r = –0.84), IDF (r = –0.83), TDF (r = –0.82), ADF (r = –0.78), and CF (r = –0.72). A best-fitting model for DE (kcal/kg) in feed ingredients was: 1,356 + (0.704 × GE, kcal/kg) – (60.3 × ash, %) – (27.7 × NDF, %) with R2 = 0.80 and p<0.001. In diets, DE:GE was negatively correlated (p<0.01) with NDF (r = –0.72), IDF (r = –0.61), TDF (r = –0.52), CF (r = –0.45), and ADF (r = –0.34). A best-fitting model for DE (kcal/kg) in diets was: 1,551 + (0.606 × GE, kcal/kg) – (22.1 × ash, %) – (25.6 × NDF, %) with R2 = 0.62 and p<0.001. All variables are expressed as DM basis. The equation developed for DE in feed ingredients had greater accuracy than a published equation for DE.Conclusion: All fiber types are reasonably good independent variables for predicting DE of swine feeds. The best-fitting model for predicting DE of feeds employed neutral detergent fiber as an independent variable.
MiR-26a promotes apoptosis of porcine granulosa cells by targeting the 3β-hydroxysteroid-Δ24-reductase gene
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Tao Qiangqiang , Shang Jinnan , Xu Yiliang , Zhang Liang , Ma Yingchun , Zhu Weihua , Yang Min , Ding Yueyun , Yin Zongjun
Published: July 2019

Objective: Apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) affects mammalian follicular development and fecundity. This study aimed to explore the regulatory relationship between microRNA-26a (miR-26a) and the 3β-hydroxysteroid-Δ24-reductase gene (DHCR24) gene in porcine follicular granular cells (pGCs), and to provide empirical data for the development of methods to improve the reproductive capacity of pigs.Methods: The pGCs were transfected with miR-26a mimic, miR-26a inhibitor and DHCR24-siRNA in vitro. The cell apoptosis rate of pGCs was detected by the flow cytometry. The secretion levels of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) in pGCs were detected by enzymelinked immunosorbent assay. Double luciferase validation system was used to detect the binding sites between miR-26a and DHCR24 3′-UTR region. Qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were used to verify the DHCR24 mRNA and protein expression in pGCs, respectively, after transfecting with miR-26a mimic and miR-26a inhibitor.Results: Results showed that enhancement of miR-26a promoted apoptosis, and inhibited E2 and P secretion in pGCs. Meanwhile, inhibition of DHCR24 also upregulated the Caspase-3 expression, reduced the BCL-2 expression, promoted pGCs apoptosis, and inhibited E2 and P secretion in pGCs. There were the binding sites of miR-26a located within DHCR24 3′-UTR. Up-regulation of miR-26a inhibited DHCR24 mRNA and protein expression in pGCs.Conclusion: This study demonstrates that miR-26a can promote cell apoptosis and inhibit E2 and P secretion by inhibiting the expression of DHCR24 in pGCs.
Comparison of the fit of automatic milking system and test-day records with the use of lactation curves
Authors: Sitkowska B. , Kolenda M. , Piwczyński D.
Published: July 2019

Objective: The aim of the paper was to compare the fit of data derived from daily automatic milking systems (AMS) and monthly test-day records with the use of lactation curves; data was analysed separately for primiparas and multiparas.Methods: The study was carried out on three Polish Holstein-Friesians (PHF) dairy herds. The farms were equipped with an automatic milking system which provided information on milking performance throughout lactation. Once a month cows were also subjected to test-day milkings (method A4). Most studies described in the literature are based on test-day data; therefore, we aimed to compare models based on both test-day and AMS data to determine which mathematical model (Wood or Wilmink) would be the better fit.Results: Results show that lactation curves constructed from data derived from the AMS were better adjusted to the actual milk yield (MY) data regardless of the lactation number and model. Also, we found that the Wilmink model may be a better fit for modelling the lactation curve of PHF cows milked by an AMS as it had the lowest values of Akaike information criterion, Bayesian information criterion, mean square error, the highest coefficient of determination values, and was more accurate in estimating MY than the Wood model. Although both models underestimated peak MY, mean, and total MY, the Wilmink model was closer to the real values.Conclusion: Models of lactation curves may have an economic impact and may be helpful in terms of herd management and decision-making as they assist in forecasting MY at any moment of lactation. Also, data obtained from modelling can help with monitoring milk performance of each cow, diet planning, as well as monitoring the health of the cow.
Effects of heat stress on growth performance, selected physiological and immunological parameters, caecal microflora, and meat quality in two broiler strains
Authors: Awad Elmutaz Atta , Najaa Muhamad , Zulaikha Zainool Abidin , Zulkifli Idrus , Soleimani Abdoreza Farjam
Published: July 2019

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of normal and heat stress environments on growth performance and, selected physiological and immunological parameters, caecal microflora and meat quality in Cobb 500 and Ross 308 broilers.Methods: One-hundred-and-twenty male broiler chicks from each strain (one-day-old) were randomly assigned in groups of 10 to 24 battery cages. Ambient temperature on day (d) 1 was set at 32°C and gradually reduced to 23°C on d 21. From d 22 to 35, equal numbers of birds from each strain were exposed to a temperature of either 23°C throughout (normal) or 34°C for 6 h (heat stress).Results: From d 1 to 21, strain had no effect (p>0.05) on feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG), or the feed conversion ratio (FCR). Except for creatine kinase, no strain×temperature interactions were observed for all the parameters measured. Regardless of strain, heat exposure significantly (p<0.05) reduced FI and BWG (d 22 to 35 and 1 to 35), immunoglobulin Y (IgY) and IgM, while increased FCR (d 22 to 35 and 1 to 35) and serum levels of glucose and acute phase proteins (APPs). Regardless of temperature, the Ross 308 birds had significantly (p<0.05) lower IgA and higher finisher and overall BWG compared to Cobb 500.Conclusion: The present study suggests that the detrimental effects of heat stress are consistent across commercial broiler strains because there were no significant strain×temperature interactions for growth performance, serum APPs and immunoglobulin responses, meat quality, and ceacal microflora population.
ENTRE A LIBERDADE DE IMPRENSA E O DIREITO À VIDA PRIVADA: COMENTÁRIO AO CASO VON HANNOVER C. ALEMANHA
Authors: Vieira Gonçalves Daniel
Published: July 2019

O presente artigo trata-se de um comentário referente ao caso da Princesa Carolina von Hannover, que recorreu ao Tribunal Europeu de Direitos Humanos (TEDH) para ajuizar ação contra a República Federal da Alemanha objetivando ter o direito à privacidade assegurado, visto que várias fotos da vida privada da família von Hannover foram publicadas em revistas e outros meios midiáticos e os tribunais alemães haviam concedido sentença contrário ao pedido da princesa monegasca em virtude desta ser uma figura pública. Nesse ínterim, mediante o conflito entre os princípios da privacidade e da liberdade, o TEDH decidiu que só deveriam ser divulgadas as imagens que tivessem alguma relevância para a sociedade – e, dessa forma, condenando a Alemanha por violar o artigo 8º da Convenção Europeia de Direitos Humanos (CEDH). A forma escolhida para abordar o presente caso consistiu em (I) contextualizá-lo para, em seguida, (II) apresentar um referencial teórico sucinto a fim de (III) analisar os meios utilizados pela Corte para resolver a colisão entre Vida Privada e Liberdade de Imprensa.
NOVAS TECNOLOGIAS E RELAÇÕES DE TRABALHO: CYBERBULLYING, RESPONSABILIDADE PATRONAL E REFORMA TRABALHISTA
Authors: Fincato Denise Pires
Published: July 2019

A pesquisa enfrenta a temática do cyberbulling nas relações de trabalho, não sem antes superar a questão semântica de sua conceituação, partindo dos termos bullying e cyberbullying e chegando ao usualmente empregado nas relações laborais “assédio moral”e “assédio sexual”. Examina a Lei de “combate à intimidação sistemática” – Lei nº. 13.185/15, verificando sua aplicabilidade (e utilidade) no ambiente laboral – bem como o sistema de responsabilidade aplicado aos casos de assédio moral e sexual perpetrados em ambientes de trabalho. Por fim, investiga acerca da adequação da aplicação da Lei nº. 13.185/15 no cenário trabalhista, notadamente no que se refere à responsabilidade do empregador pela manutenção de ambiente laboral hígido e adequado, identificando hipóteses em que possa ser responsabilizado por danos aos trabalhadores, especialmente quando os atos de violência se derem em espaços virtuais, mas com reflexos concretos na saúde e psiquè dos trabalhadores. Por fim, enquadra a responsabilidade do empregador na nova moldura da responsabilidade civil do PLC 38/2017, abordando especiais detalhamentos.
EXPERIÊNCIA EXTENSIONISTA EM ENGENHARIA DE PRODUÇÃO: DESAFIOS E OPORTUNIDADES
Authors: Carvalho Alessandra Lopes , Andrade Luciano , Oliveira Pedro Ivo Alexandre , Santos Ricardo Cobério Lery
Published: July 2019

Este trabalho é fruto de projeto de extensão concebido com o intuito de contribuir para o desenvolvimento de microempresas pertencentes ao entorno da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Minas Gerais, Unidade Barreiro. Após uma etapa inicial de triagem e escolha das empresas com interesse em participar do projeto foi escolhida uma empresa específica como projeto piloto. Posteriormente o projeto foi implementado em outras microempresas  caracterizando,  portanto, um estudo de múltiplos casos. Foram utilizadas abordagens de pesquisa qualitativas e quantitativas sendo aplicados diferentes métodos de coleta e tratamento de dados como análise de documentos e entrevistas semiestruturadas. Após a etapa  de diagnóstico dos principais  problemas encontrados em cada empresa participante do projeto foram utilizadas ferramentas da qualidade em geral para a busca de possíveis soluções. Posteriormente foi elaborado um plano de ação específico para cada empresa. Os resultados obtidos demostram claras possibilidades de melhorias simples e de baixo custo.Palavras chave. Extensão Universitária.  Micro Empresa.  Ferramentas da Qualidade.
Patrimônio Mineiro e valorização dos testemunhos da mineração pretérita: resquícios existentes na Serra do Lenheiro, São João del-Rei, Minas Gerais
Authors: Figueiredo Mucio Do Amaral , Ferreira Arlon Candido , Rocha Leonardo Cristian , Barbosa Helton Santos Lopes
Published: July 2019

O patrimônio mineiro vem aparecendo como uma nova área do conhecimento, sendo considerado um desdobramento do que se conhece como geopatrimônio. Como uma ramificação científica interdisciplinar, abarca desde a patrimonialização de prédios e equipamentos da atividade minerária interrompida em décadas passadas, até a inventariação e análise de resquícios da atividade minerária de períodos proto industriais e pré-industriais (anteriores ao séc. XIX). Os conceitos apresentados, advindos de investigações e reflexões de autores de vários países, apontam para um rico ambiente de investigação, capaz de agregar e valorar importantes aspectos da construção histórico-cultural das comunidades desenvolvidas a partir da atividade mineradora. A Serra do Lenheiro e a região de São João del-Rei, em Minas Gerais, uma outrora importante cidade da região sudeste do Brasil, polarizando um vasto território em períodos coloniais da história brasileira, nasceu e se desenvolveu a partir da descoberta de ouro em suas cercanias. Os resquícios das atividades minerárias setecentistas e oitocentistas ainda se fazem presentes na paisagem da referida Serra, marcando um importante momento na história da região e da centenária cidade. Faz-se necessário, como desdobramento deste trabalho, uma futura investigação mais detalhada para que se conheça em detalhes essas construções minerárias de períodos coloniais, iniciando, assim, mais um capítulo na rica história da cidade de São João del-Rei e região.
Chaos in overhead travelling cranes load motion
Authors: Margielewicz Jerzy , Gąska Damian , Opasiak Tadeusz , Haniszewski Tomasz
Published: July 2019

The paper presents the results of numerical investigations of the overhead travelling cranes load motion. The model studies assumes that the load is suspended on the inextensible rope. Conversely, its motion is triggered by an external moment. In addition, energy losses in the construction node connecting the rope to the drum are included. At the same time these losses were mapped through a linear viscous damper. The main objective was to evaluate the impact of individual mathematical model parameters on the dynamics of the transported load. The results were compared between two models: with/without crane structure vibrations included. The results were illustrated by multi-colored maps of the largest Lyapunov exponent, bifurcation diagrams, and Poincare cross-sections.
Civil court staff in Kenya: working conditions and legal training for an effective procedure
Authors: Kashindi George , Wamuyu Hannah
Published: July 2019

Courts are very important because their pronouncements become part of the law in light of the provisions of section 3 of the Judicature Act, 1967. Therefore, the process of making judicial determinations on issues before courts must be treated with the necessary efficiency. Delivery of justice involves both judicial and administrative work. That is to say, for expediency in the administration of justice to be met, there is a need for other administrative functions which cannot be done by the judges. Therefore, the role of judicial staff in case management is critical in the functioning of the judiciary. Though the Judiciary has come up with different initiatives to build capacity for judicial staff, the initiatives including the approval of the Judiciary Human Resources Policies and Procedure Manual 2014, continue to exist amidst serious training and human practice challenges on motivation, security, and adequacy of facilities. This paper discusses the initiatives that the Judiciary has put in place to attract and maintain the best human resource capital. It proposes that strategic investment in information and communication technology will help overcome the challenges as the Judiciary moves towards its identified strategic direction of quality judicial service.
Levantamento parasitológico e sorológico de Leishmaniose em cães da Unidade de Controle de Zoonoses (UCZ) de Guaraí (TO)
Authors: Gomes Fabiana Teodoro , Barros Thainara Anjos , Rosa Lauriene Dias , Carvalho Aluísio Vasconcelos de
Published: July 2019

Os cães são atingidos por diversos patógenos transmitidos o que pode acarretar testes falso-positivo quando existe reação cruzada. Para identificar essas reações foi realizado um levantamento parasitológico e sorológico de Leishmaniose em cães da Unidade de Controle de Zoonoses (UCZ) de Guaraí-TO, em 10 amostras de sangue periférico, linfa através de punção aspirativa nos linfonodos do membro posterior esquerdo e punção aspirativa por medula óssea no esterno. Adicionalmente foi realizado teste imunocromatográfico (DPP® LVC Bio-Manguinhos/FIOCRUZ), e confirmados com pesquisa de parasitos através de exame parasitológico direto. Embora todos se apresentaram positivos no teste rápido, o resultado se comprovou significativamente nas amostras examinadas no parasitológico apresentando prevalência de 100% para Leishmania, 60% para Babesia e 30% para Ehrlichia. O teste rápido (DPP®) mostrou-se eficiente no presente estudo, sendo que em todos os animais positivos foram confirmados no exame parasitológico.
Does the IASB know the needs of SMEs? A comparative analysis between the IFRS for SMEs and full IFRS due processes
Authors: Bautista-Mesa Rafael , Muñoz-Tomás Juan María , Horno-Bueno María Paz
Published: July 2019

Our research contributes to the limited literature on lobbying in accounting standards for SMEs by analysing all comment letters in the due process for the IFRS for SMEs (from 2004 to 2012) and comparing them to all of the 97 IASB’s projects related to full IFRS during the same period of time. Results confirm that the participation of preparers is significantly lower in the international accounting standardisation process for SMEs. Although this reduced participation is compensated by a higher participation of auditors, results also reveal that auditors do not match the interests of preparers in the case of the IFRS for SMEs. In conclusion, the IASB finds a limitation of the Institutional Theory (Meyer and Rowan, 1977) in the case of the IFRS for SMEs, drawing attention to the need of IASB for conducting further analysis about the real preferences, not only of specific users of the SMEs’ financial information, but also of SMEs. We finally suggest the relevance of the analysis of the needs of SMEs in developing countries, in line with the pronouncements of UNCTAD (2003).

Nuestra investigación contribuye a la reducida literatura sobre ‘lobbying’ en la NIIF para las PYMES al analizar todas las cartas de comentario en el ‘due process’ (entre 2004 y 2012) y compararlas con los 97 proyectos las NIIF completas relacionados con las NIIF completas durante el mismo período de tiempo. Los resultados confirman que la participación de los preparadores es significativamente menor en el proceso de normalización contable internacional para las PYMES. Si bien esta participación reducida se ve compensada por una mayor participación de los auditores, los resultados también revelan que los auditores no coinciden con los intereses de los preparadores en el caso de las NIIF para las PYMES. En conclusión, el IASB encuentra una limitación de la Teoría Institucional (Meyer y Rowan, 1977) en el caso de la NIIF para las PYMES, llamando la atención sobre la necesidad de que el IASB realice análisis adicionales sobre las necesidades reales, no solo de usuarios específicos de la información financiera emitida por las PYMES, sino también de las propias PYMES. Finalmente, sugerimos análisis adicionales de las necesidades de las PYMES en los países en desarrollo, en línea con los pronunciamientos de la UNCTAD (2003).