bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic-Detection Method for Mining Subsidence Basins Based on InSAR and CNN-AFSA-SVM
Authors: Wang Lei , Li Shibao , Teng Chaoqun , Jiang Chuang , Li Jingyu , Li Zhong , Huang Jinzhong
Published: October 2022

Mining subsidence disasters are common geological disasters. Accurate and effective identification of their deformation position is significant in preventing and controlling geological disasters and monitoring illegal mining. In this study, deep learning, combined with a support vector machine (SVM), has been used to establish an automatic-detection method for mining subsidence basins using Sentinel-1A data. The Huainan mining area was selected as the experimental area to verify the method. The interferogram was obtained using differential radar interferometry (D-InSAR) to process the Sentinel-1A radar data of seven landscapes, and the mining subsidence basin and other targets were extracted manually as training samples. Subsequently, AlexNet, VGG19, and ResNet50 convolutional neural networks (CNNs) were used to extract feature vectors of mining subsidence basins for the SVM classifier, and mining subsidence basins were detected in a large-area InSAR interferogram. Non-maximum suppression was used to remove the repeated search box to improve the detection accuracy of mining subsidence basins; the artificial fish swarm algorithm with strong optimization ability and good global convergence is introduced into SVM parameter optimization to construct an improved ResNet50_SVM model. The experimental results show that: (1) the three CNN_SVM methods can accurately detect dry-mining subsidence basins automatically in large regional interference maps, providing an essential scientific basis for the government to monitor illegal mining activities and prevent and control geological disasters in mining areas; (2) the accuracy of the CNN_SVM automatic-detection methods for mining subsidence basins is approximately 80%, and that of ResNet50_SVM for mining subsidence basin detection is 83.7%, superior to that of AlexNet_SVM and VGG19_SVM; (3) the accuracy of the improved ResNet50_SVM based on AFSA algorithm is 88.3%, which is better than the unimproved Resnet50_SVM model.
Centrifugal Model Test and Simulation of Geogrid Reinforced Backfill and EPS Interlayer on Bridge Abutment
Authors: Shen Zheng , Fang Lei
Published: October 2022

In this paper, the use of geotechnical centrifuge and numerical modeling techniques to investigate the influence of geogrid reinforcement and EPS interlayer on the lateral earth pressure and the backfill surface settlements behind gravity abutment and pile-supported abutment is reported. According to the principle of equal strain, the abutment back structure, foundation, backfill material, grid and interlayer material were simulated, and the centrifugal model test for two types of abutments was carried out with a model scale of n = 62.5, 40, respectively. The tests showed that the reinforcement of the geogrid could reduce the surface settlement of backfill and the lateral earth pressure of the backfill on the back of abutment. After setting the EPS interlayer, the influence of abutment displacement on earth pressure could be eliminated, and the earth pressure of the backfill material on the abutment back was significantly reduced. The “interlayer + geogrid” structure further reduced the earth pressure of backfill material on the abutment back. The existence of the EPS interlayer adjusted the strain distribution of the reinforced material, significantly increasing the strain of the reinforced material near the abutment, which was conducive to the reinforcement effect. The above research conclusions could provide a basis for the design and practical application of abutment backfill materials.
Social Vulnerability of the Fishing Community to Restrictive Public Policies: Case Study the Gulf of Ulloa, Mexico
Authors: Salinas-Zavala César Augusto , Morales-Zárate María Verónica , Diaz-Santana-Iturrios Beatriz , Sánchez-Brito Ismael
Published: October 2022

The social vulnerability approach (SV) establishes that social inequalities and disadvantages have developed beyond monetary poverty in the last few years, since the process is built at different scales. In its objectives, the SV multidimensional measurement is considered to be a priority tool in monitoring the compliance of the first goal: to eliminate poverty in all its forms. Therefore, the objective of this research is to calculate the SV of the fishing communities of the Gulf of Ulloa (GU), Mexico by macro-markers, to subsequently contrast them with field micro-data, and finally to perform a behavior scenario that takes into consideration the current public policies that restrict fishing in such areas. The results showed substantial differences depending on the type of information used (x20.05,8 = 41.53 > 15.51). A corrected contingency coefficient of 0.83 was obtained, indicating that the calculus depends strongly on the data and scale used, and suggesting that macro-data may be masking the true SV values in the area in such a way that they could be severely underestimated. Although the context of micro-scale is not the only one, SV should be calculated to analyze the fishing communities, as coastal fishery represents almost the total livelihood of the inhabitants. Nevertheless, these communities confront numerous local and global threats, and these pressures on SV put their livelihoods, well-being, food security and traditional lifestyles at risk. Therefore, the role of researching human dimensions and governance is not only basic, but also urgent in order to turn to sustainable socioeconomic management.
Effects of Using World Indicators for Online ESD Learning
Authors: Yoshida Masami
Published: October 2022

As a pedagogical method to improve student recognition of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) through scientific data reading, this study looked at the effects of learning in online academic discussions using data from global indicators. Students’ scholarly messages were coded and introduced into qualitative content analysis, sequential analysis, and social network analysis, which are emphasized, respectively, to investigate code co-occurrence, code sequence, and code distribution. In all, 307 messages appeared from 119 university students in the online community. The ESD competencies and collective intelligence (CI) are used as indicators for analyses. Qualitative content analysis, particularly addressing those sentences, proved that CI enhanced communication among students where they shared individual norms and values. Sequential analysis elucidated characteristics of discussion thread characteristics with CI, which induced further discussion with foresight views and questions. Social network analyses indicated students connected and showed the connection structure was meshed. Key student bridging messages were extracted. Whereas ESD competencies appeared effectively, the expansion of the current online environment must be regarded as including competency in participatory learning. After summarizing the effects of the online learning method in the Moodle forum environment, the method was proved to empower students to represent core competencies of ESD and to lead data-driven concept transformation.
Optimization of the Extraction Parameters for the Isolation of Bioactive Compounds from Orange Peel Waste
Authors: Athanasiadis Vassilis , Chatzimitakos Theodoros , Kotsou Konstantina , Palaiogiannis Dimitrios , Bozinou Eleni , Lalas Stavros I.
Published: October 2022

More and more research is being focused on the production of value-adding products from waste materials. Food waste is not only a major global issue, but also an excellent source of bioactive compounds. In this study, the parameters that affect the extraction of the bioactive compounds (polyphenols, ascorbic acid, hesperidin, carotenoids) from orange peels, and their antioxidant properties, were optimized, using a response surface methodology (RSM) (examining the extraction temperature, time, and composition of the extraction solvent). In addition, the effect of two more techniques was examined [ultrasound (US) and pulsed electric field (PEF)], either separately or combined, so as to determine whether they can enhance the extraction of the compounds. From our results, it was apparent that orange peels are an excellent source of many bioactive compounds since the extracts contained hesperidin (16.26 mg/g dw), total polyphenols (34.71 mg GAE/g dw), ascorbic acid (1228.93 mg/100 g dw) and total carotenoids (52.98 μg CtE/g dw).
Financial Performance under the Impact of the Decision to Implement an Organizational Change
Authors: Alecsoiu Olivia-Roxana , Chirculescu Maria-Felicia , Panagoret Andreea
Published: October 2022

The continued interest in this research topic can be justified by the fact that a direct correlation between financial performance and managerial performance has not yet been reached at the level of an entity in general and implicitly at the level of an energy entity. The assumed objective of the research was to make a theoretical, methodological, and empirical evaluation of the cause-effect relationships between financial performance and managerial performance. Regarding the working instruments for data collection and interpretation, the most commonly used research method was the comparative method used both in the approach of theoretical aspects and during the empirical research carried out. In addition, longitudinal methods were used both by presenting the evolution in time of the concepts debated in the work, as well as by the evolution in time of the performance indicators. At the end of the work, the observation method was used to draw partial conclusions. The results of the research confirm the hypothesis according to which the decision to implement the organizational change at the level of the entity has a significant contribution to the efficiency of the activity, as can be seen from the evolution of the net result.
The Moderating Role of Personal Innovativeness in Tourists’ Intention to Use Web 3.0 Based on Updated Information Systems Success Model
Authors: Albaom Mohammed Abdo , Sidi Fatimah , Jabar Marzanah A. , Abdullah Rusli , Ishak Iskandar , Yunikawati Nur Anita , Priambodo Magistyo Purboyo , Nusari Mohammed Saleh , Ali Dhakir Abbas
Published: October 2022

Rapid technological development has led to an information explosion in the current Web environment. Recently, tourists have become reliant on the Internet as a tool to obtain information about the places they intend to visit. However, due to the overload of information, tourists face many challenges and difficulties in making the right choice. Despite the promise of Web 3.0’s revolutionary solutions to address all of Web 2.0’s shortcomings, there is still a significant gap between currently implemented systems and the useful innovation of future technologies in the tourism industry. This study proposes a theoretical model to examine the role of personal innovativeness in tourists’ intention to use Web 3.0 based on the DeLone and McLean model. Although many attempts were made in prior work to address this issue, most of those studies focused on the evolution of Web 3.0 from the technical side and did not investigate it from the theoretical perspective in different domains in general and tourism in particular. The method of this study was based on a survey questionnaire with 643 participants. SmartPLS version 3.3.3 was used to analyze the study data. The results of this study reveal that information quality, system quality, service quality, social influence, and personal innovativeness had significant effects on tourists’ intention to use Web 3.0, while awareness did not have a significant effect. This study provides further insights, expands our understanding of the study topic, and contributes to this growing research area, and the novel research framework can act as a fundamental theoretical model for future studies in different contexts.
Triple-C: A Tridimensional Sustainability-Oriented Indicator for Assessing Product Circularity in Public Procurement
Authors: Wurster Simone , Ladu Luana
Published: October 2022

Various microlevel circular economy indicators for assessing sustainability and, partly, additional sustainability characteristics have been developed, but an integrated solution considering the environmental, social, and economic pillars remains a research gap. Method: Based on a multimethod approach, including surveys and the analysis of existing sustainability assessment methodologies and standards, this paper proposes a concept for a multidimensional circular economy indicator tailored to public procurers. It relies on attractive existing building blocks including: (1) the ecological scarcity method, (2) European and international sustainability standards and indicators, and (3) the STAR-ProBio-IAT concept. Results: This article presents the concept of the composite indicator Triple-C, consisting of 20 elements and aimed at facilitating sustainable circular public procurement. It is intended to be incorporated into software that facilitates sustainable product decisions among public procurers in Germany. Conclusions: We propose a generic indicator concept covering all three (environmental, social, and economic) sustainability pillars. More research and additional standards are needed to develop the Triple-C concept further into product-specific applications.
Some New Inverse Hilbert Inequalities on Time Scales
Authors: El-Deeb Ahmed A. , Makharesh Samer D. , Almarri Barakah
Published: October 2022

Several inverse integral inequalities were proved in 2004 by Yong. It is our aim in this paper to extend these inequalities to time scales. Furthermore, we also apply our inequalities to discrete and continuous calculus to obtain some new inequalities as special cases. Our results are proved using some algebraic inequalities, inverse Hölder’s inequality and inverse Jensen’s inequality on time scales. Symmetry plays an essential role in determining the correct methods to solve dynamic inequalities.
Particle Physics of the Dark Sector
Authors: Baker Oliver , Afanasev Andrei , Lagouri Theodota , Pan Jingjing , Weber Christian
Published: October 2022

The mystery associated with a proposed Dark Sector of phenomena that are separate from the standard model of particle physics is described. A Dark Sector may possess matter particles, force carriers which mediate their interactions, and new interactions and symmetries that are beyond the standard model of particle physics. Various approaches for Dark Sector searches are described, including those at the energy frontier at the Large Hadron Collider, in astrophysical interactions with both terrestrial experiments and those in space-born platforms. Searches using low energy photons from microwave energies in cryogenic environments to x-ray energies are also described. While there is no noncontroversial evidence for Dark Sector phenomena presently, new searches with more modern equipment and analysis methods are exploring regions of phase space that have not been available before now, indicating ongoing interest and excitement in this research.
Discrete Dynamics of Balls in Cageless Ball Bearings
Authors: Zhao Yanling , Zhou Gang , Wang Qiyu
Published: October 2022

Cageless ball bearings are often preferred as a back-up bearing for active magnetic bearings to support a falling rotor, but the contact between the balls of the cageless ball bearing may lead to the deterioration of the bearing performance and affect the dynamic stability of the rotor system. Thus, we studied the discrete dynamics of cageless ball bearings. First, a model is proposed to change the groove curvature center of the local outer raceway to control the ball velocity to achieve dispersion. Combined with the spatial geometry theory, the mathematical model of the discrete raceway is established, the collision between the balls is considered as an abruptly added constraint, and the non-smooth dynamics equation of the cageless ball bearing with a local discrete raceway is established. Then, the fourth-order Adams prediction correction algorithm is used to numerically solve the dynamic discretization of the ball, and the structural parameters of the discrete raceway are preferably selected, according to the phase diagram of the ball and the change in the angular spacing. The results show that the structure of the discrete raceway has a strong influence on the discrete dynamics of the ball.
Double Conformable Sumudu Transform
Authors: Al-Rab’a Abdallah , Al-Sharif Sharifa , Al-Khaleel Mohammad
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we introduce a new approach to solving fractional initial and boundary value problems involving a heat equation, a wave equation, and a telegraph equation by modifying the double Sumudu transform of the fractional type. We discuss a modified double conformable Sumudu transform together with the conditions for its existence. In addition, we prove some more properties of the fractional-type Sumudu transform, including convolution and other properties, which are well known for their use in solving various symmetric and asymmetric problems in applied sciences and engineering.
Effective Cooling System for Solar Photovoltaic Cells Using NEPCM Impingement Jets
Authors: Mohammadpour Javad , Salehi Fatemeh , Lee Ann
Published: October 2022

Attention to photovoltaic (PV) cells to convert solar irradiation into electricity is significantly growing for domestic usage and large-scale projects such as solar farms. However, PV efficiency decreases on hot days. This paper proposes an effective cooling technique consisting of a 2% nano encapsulated phase change material (NEPCM) slurry and impinging jets (IJs) in a PV system. The impact of five influencing parameters on PV efficiency is studied using a multi-phase volume of fluid (VOF) model encompassing the effects of solar irradiation, latent heat, mass flow rate, number of nozzles, and jet-to-surface distance. The maximum efficiency of 15.82% is achieved under irradiation of 600 W/m2. The latent heat shows a slight improvement at the low particle concentration. Increasing the mass flow rate to 0.12 kg/s enhances the PV output power by 17.32%. While the PV performance is shown to be improved over the increment of the number of nozzles, the jet-to-surface spacing of 5.1 mm records a remarkable PV surface temperature reduction to 33.8 °C, which is the ideal operating temperature for the PV panel.
Analytical Validation of a Direct Competitive ELISA for Multiple Mycotoxin Detection in Human Serum
Authors: Garg Kunal , Villavicencio-Aguilar Fausto , Solano-Rivera Flora , Gilbert Leona
Published: October 2022

Mycotoxin exposure in humans is primarily assessed through its occurrence in external sources, such as food commodities. Herein, we have developed a direct competitive ELISA to facilitate the detection of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), deoxynivalenol (DON), fumonisin (FUM B1/B2), ochratoxin A (OTA), and zearalenone (ZEA) in human serum. The analytical validation of the assay followed practices endorsed by the international research community and the EU directive 96/23/EC in order to examine detection capability, recovery, and cross-reactivity. The assay demonstrated a lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) for AFB1 [0.61 ng/mL (hereon ng/mL = ppb)], DON (19.53 ppb), FUM (4.88 ppb), OTA (19.53 ppb), and ZEA (0.15 ppb). Recovery from human serum for all mycotoxins spanned from 73% to 106%. Likewise, the specificity for monoclonal antibodies against cross-reactant mycotoxins ranged from 2% to 11%. This study compares the LLOQ and recovery values with commercial and emerging immuno-based methods for detecting mycotoxins in foodstuffs. The LLOQ values from the present study were among the lowest in commercial or emerging methods. Despite the differences in the extraction protocols and matrices, the recovery range in this study, commercial tests, and other procedures were similar for all mycotoxins. Overall, the assay detected AFB1, DON, FUM, OTA, and ZEA in human serum with excellent accuracy, precision, and specificity.
Zearalenone Promotes Uterine Development of Weaned Gilts by Interfering with Serum Hormones and Up-Regulating Expression of Estrogen and Progesterone Receptors
Authors: Song Tingting , Zhou Xuemei , Ma Xiangming , Jiang Yanping , Yang Weiren , Liu Faxiao , Liu Mei , Huang Libo , Jiang Shuzhen
Published: October 2022

In this study, we aimed to assess the effect of diet ZEA on serum hormones, the location and expression of estrogen receptor ERα/β and progesterone receptor (PR) of the uterus in weaned piglets and to reveal the mechanism underneath. A total of 40 healthy weaned gilts were randomly allocated to basal diet supplemented with 0 (Control), 0.5 (ZEA0.5), 1.0 (ZEA1.0) and 1.5 (ZEA1.5) mg ZEA/kg and fed individually for 35 days. Meanwhile, the porcine endometrial epithelial cells (PECs) were incubated for 24 h with ZEA at 0 (Control), 5 (ZEA5), 20 (ZEA20) and 80 (ZEA80) μmol/L, respectively. The results showed that nutrient apparent digestibility (CP and GE), nutrient apparent availability (ME/GE, BV and NPU), the uterine immunoreactive integrated optic density (IOD), relative mRNA and protein expression of ER-α, ER-β and PR and the relative mRNA and protein expression of ER-α and ER-β in PECs all increased linearly (p < 0.05) with ZEA. Collectively, ZEA can interfere with the secretion of some reproductive hormones in the serum and promote the expression of estrogen/progesterone receptors in the uterus and PECs. All these indicate that ZEA may promote the development of the uterus in weaned gilts through estrogen receptor pathway.
Comparison of Static Balance Control in Infected Htlv-1 Subjects with Different Tsp/Ham Diagnosis
Authors: Costa Kelly Helorany Alves , Santos Patrícia Seixas Alves , da Silva Almeida Gizele Cristina , Caires Andrew Sousa , Vasconcelos Beatriz Helena Baldez , Lima Ramon Costa , Domingues Mariangela Moreno , da Conceição Nascimento Pinheiro Maria , Sousa Rita Catarina Medeiros , de Athayde Costa e Silva Anselmo , Souza Givago Silva , Callegari Bianca
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: Tropical spastic paraparesis (TSP/HAM) associated with the T cell lymphotropic virus in type I humans (HTLV-1) is a slow, chronic, and progressive disease that causes balance changes. TSP/HAM diagnosis can be classified as probable, possible, and definite. We compared the static balance control of HTLV-1-infected patients with different TSP/HAM diagnosis. (2) Methods: Our sample consisted of 13 participants infected with HTLV-1 and 16 healthy participants. The center of pressure was recorded using a force platform with open and closed eyes. We divided the recordings into three intervals, period T1 (corresponds to the first 10 s); period T2 (from 10 to 45 s); period T3 (from 45 to 55 s). (3) Results: Eight participants infected with HTLV-1 were classified as probable TSP/HAM and five participants infected with HTLV-1 were classified as definite TSP/HAM. There was a significant increase in postural instability in patients with definite PET/MAH considering the structural and global variables of body sway compared to the control and the probable TSP/HAM. (4) Conclusions: We concluded that the severity of balance is directly related to the degree of signs and symptoms of TSP/HAM.
Isolation and Characterization of Lytic Pseudomonas aeruginosa Bacteriophages Isolated from Sewage Samples from Tunisia
Authors: Akremi Ismahen , Merabishvili Maya , Jlidi Mouna , Haj Brahim Adel , Ben Ali Manel , Karoui Anis , Lavigne Rob , Wagemans Jeroen , Pirnay Jean-Paul , Ben Ali Mamdouh
Published: October 2022

Bacteriophages could be a useful adjunct to antibiotics for the treatment of multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. In this study, lytic P. aeruginosa myoviruses PsCh, PsIn, Ps25, and Ps12on-D were isolated from Tunisian sewage samples. Phage Ps12on-D displayed an adsorption time of ~10 min, a short latency period (~10 min), and a large burst size (~115 PFU per infected cell) under standard growth conditions. All phages were active at broad temperature (4 °C to 50 °C) and pH (3.0 to 11.0) ranges and were able to lyse a wide variety of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from clinical and environmental samples worldwide. Illumina sequencing revealed double-stranded DNA genomes ranging from 87,887 and 92,710 bp with high sequence identity to Pseudomonas phage PAK_P1. All four phages based on sequence analysis were assigned to the Pakpunavirus genus. The presented characterization and preclinical assessment are part of an effort to establish phage therapy treatment as an alternative strategy for the management of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa infections in Tunisia.
The Role of a Betaretrovirus in Human Breast Cancer: Enveloping a Conundrum
Authors: Gunzburg Walter H. , Salmons Brian
Published: October 2022

Most of the evidence that a human betaretrovirus (HBRV/HMTV) highly related to mouse mammary tumour virus (MMTV) has an etiological role in breast cancer has been summarized in a recent comprehensive Special Issue of “Viruses” entitled “Human Betaretrovirus (HBRV) and Related Diseases”. Shortly after publication of this special issue, a detailed analysis of aligned env sequences was published and concluded that (i) MMTV and HBRV/HMTV cannot be distinguished on the basis of aligned env sequences and (ii) more sequence data covering the full-length env or HBRV/HMTV genomes from multiple isolates is needed. Although productive infection of human cells by MMTV (and presumably HBRV/HMTV) has been shown, it is imperative that the receptor(s) enabling HBRV/HMTV to infect human cells are defined. Moreover, there is currently no compelling data for common integration sites, in contrast to MMTV induced mammary tumorigenesis in mice, suggesting that other mechanisms of tumorigenesis are associated with HBRV/HMTV infection. These issues need to be resolved before a clear link between MMTV/HBRV/HMTV and human breast cancer can be concluded.
In Silico Characterization of African Swine Fever Virus Nucleoprotein p10 Interaction with DNA
Authors: Istrate Claudia , Marques Jéssica , Bule Pedro , Correia Sílvia , Aires-da-Silva Frederico , Duarte Marlene , Reis Ana Luísa , Machuqueiro Miguel , Leitão Alexandre , Victor Bruno L.
Published: October 2022

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is the etiological agent of a highly contagious, hemorrhagic infectious swine disease, with a tremendous sanitary and economic impact on a global scale. Currently, there are no globally available vaccines or treatments. The p10 protein, a structural nucleoprotein encoded by ASFV, has been previously described as capable of binding double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), which may have implications for viral replication. However, the molecular mechanism that governs this interaction is still unknown, mostly due to the lack of a structural model for this protein. In this work, we have generated an ab initio model of the p10 protein and performed extensive structural characterization, using molecular dynamics simulations to identify the motifs and residues regulating DNA recognition. The helix-turn-helix motif identified at the C-terminal region of the protein was shown to be crucial to the dsDNA-binding efficiency. As with other DNA-binding proteins, two distinct serine and lysine-rich regions found in the two helices were identified as key players in the binding to DNA, whose importance was later validated using experimental binding assays. Altogether, these findings may contribute to a better understanding of the p10 function in ASFV replication.
Wastewater Surveillance Captured an Increase in Adenovirus Circulation in Milan (Italy) during the First Quarter of 2022
Authors: Pellegrinelli Laura , Uceda Renteria Sara Colonia , Ceriotti Ferruccio , Ammoni Emanuela , Galli Cristina , Seiti Arlinda , Castiglioni Sara , Cereda Danilo , Binda Sandro , Pariani Elena
Published: October 2022

The quantification and molecular characterization of the AdV genome in urban wastewater samples (WWSs) collected weekly at a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Milan from 1 January 2021 (week 2021-01) to 1 May 2022 (week 2022-17) were performed. The concentration of the AdV genome was graphically compared with the AdV positive rate observed in the respiratory/gastrointestinal specimens from individuals hospitalized with acute respiratory/gastrointestinal infections collected from one of the major hospitals in Milan in the same time series. An increase in the AdV circulation in WWSs was seen from November 2021, peaking in March 2022 and overlapped with an increase in the AdV positive rate in respiratory/fecal samples from individuals hospitalized with acute respiratory/gastrointestinal infections. The molecular characterization of the hexon hypervariable region of loop 1 of AdV revealed the presence of the species F type 41 in WWSs collected from February 2022 to April 2022. The wastewater surveillance of AdV can provide crucial epidemiological characteristics regarding AdV, particularly where no clinical surveillance is ongoing. The increase in the AdV circulation in Milan both in WWSs and clinical samples temporally overlapped with the outbreak of severe acute pediatric hepatitis observed in Europe and needs to be better investigated.
Application and Impact of Antiviral Therapy for Patients with HBV-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma Receiving Sorafenib and Lenvatinib Treatment
Authors: Lee I-Cheng , Lee Pei-Chang , Chao Yee , Chi Chen-Ta , Wu Chi-Jung , Hung Yi-Ping , Su Chien-Wei , Hou Ming-Chih , Huang Yi-Hsiang
Published: October 2022

Overall survival (OS) in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has improved in the era of multi-line sequential therapy. The application of antiviral therapy and its impact on survival for patients with HBV-related HCC needs to be reassessed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the application and impact of antiviral therapy on survival for patients with HBV-related HCC receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy. Patients with advanced HBV-related HCC treated with sorafenib or lenvatinib as first-line therapy with (n = 377) and without (n = 182) nucleos(t)ide analogue (NUC) therapy were retrospectively enrolled. Prognostic factors of OS were evaluated. Secular trends in the increased application of NUC therapy and improved survival were observed in the last decade. The HBV reactivation rate in patients without NUC therapy was 6.6%. By multivariate analysis, baseline low HBV viral load, achieving undetectable HBV DNA after TKI therapy, and ability to receive second-line therapy were found to be independent predictors of OS. In subgroup patients with NUC therapy, starting NUC before TKI was associated with a better OS. In conclusion, the application of antiviral therapy for patients with HBV-related HCC receiving TKI therapy has increased over time. Achieving complete virological suppression may contribute to a better OS in patients with advanced HBV-related HCC.
Declining Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies among Vaccinated Nursing Home Residents and Staff Six Months after the Primary BNT162b2 Vaccination Campaign in Belgium: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Meyers Eline , Deschepper Ellen , Duysburgh Els , De Rop Liselore , De Burghgraeve Tine , Van Ngoc Pauline , Digregorio Marina , Delogne Simon , Coen Anja , De Clercq Nele , Buret Laëtitia , Coenen Samuel , Sutter An De , Scholtes Beatrice , Verbakel Jan Y , Cools Piet , Heytens Stefan
Published: October 2022

In the SCOPE study, we monitored SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in a national sample of residents and staff from Belgian nursing homes. Here, we report the seroprevalence among infected and infection-naive residents and staff after the primary COVID-19 vaccination campaign. Among 1554 vaccinated nursing home residents and 1082 vaccinated staff from 69 nursing homes in Belgium, we assessed the proportion having SARS-CoV-2 antibodies approximately two (April 2021), four (June 2021), and six months (August 2021) after a two-dose regimen of the BNT162b2 vaccine. We measured the seroprevalence using SARS-CoV-2 antibody rapid tests and collected socio-demographic and COVID-19 medical data using an online questionnaire. Two months after vaccination (baseline), we found a seroprevalence of 91% (95% CI: 89–93) among vaccinated residents and 99% (95% CI: 98–99) among vaccinated staff. Six months after vaccination, the seroprevalence significantly decreased to 68% (95% CI: 64–72) among residents and to 89% (95% CI; 86–91) among staff (p < 0.001). The seroprevalence was more likely to decrease among infection-naive residents, older residents, or residents with a high care dependency level. These findings emphasize the need for close monitoring of nursing home residents, as a substantial part of this population fails to mount a persistent antibody response after BNT162b2 vaccination.
Optimization Method to Determine the Kinetic Rate Constants for the Removal of Benzo[a]pyrene and Anthracene in Water through the Fenton Process
Authors: Rubio-Clemente Ainhoa , Chica Edwin , Peñuela Gustavo A.
Published: October 2022

The reaction rate constants concerning the removal of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) and anthracene (AN) in water by the Fenton process can be commonly found from the experimental data and by using regression models. However, this calculation is a time-consuming and a difficult task. Therefore, an algorithm for the determination of the rate constants depletion of the pollutants of interest should be developed. In this study, several algorithms were developed, using MATLAB® software for representing AN and BaP elimination by the Fenton process under an experimental domain. These algorithms were derived from the first-, second- and third-order kinetic models, as well as from the double exponential and the Behnajady-Modirshahla-Ghanbery (BMG) kinetic models. Regarding the AN and BaP removal kinetics, the double exponential and the BMG models were found to exhibit the highest correlation coefficients (>0.98 and >0.95, respectively) in comparison with those ones obtained from the first-, second- and third-order kinetic models (>0.80, >0.85 and >0.88, respectively). It was found that the algorithms can be used to optimize and fit the rate constants by creating an objective function that fits and represents the experimental data obtained concerning the removal of the compounds of interest through the Fenton advanced oxidation process.
Fate of Heavy Metals in the Surface Water-Dump Rock System of the Mine Lupikko I (Karelia): Field Observations and Geochemical Modeling
Authors: Sidkina Evgeniya S. , Soldatova Evgeniya A. , Cherkasova Elena V. , Konyshev Artem A. , Vorobey Sofia S. , Mironenko Mikhail V.
Published: October 2022

Abandoned mines are sources of potentially toxic chemical elements, although the development of these objects was completed. The Lupikko I mine area (Karelia Republic, Russia) is an excellent example of such technogenic objects. It is one of the largest mines in the Pitkäranta area, which was abandoned more than one hundred years ago. The dump rocks here are characterized by significant mineral diversity. Disseminated ore mineralization of the study area contains heavy metals, which enter the natural waters due to the oxidative dissolution of sulfides. Dump rocks and water from the Lupikko I mine area were collected to research the behavior of toxic elements. The samples were analyzed using ICP-MS, ICP-AES, potentiometric titration, ionic chromatography, X-ray microanalysis, X-ray fluorescence, and SEM to obtain information about the geochemical environment. According to new data, the content of Fe, Zn, Cu, Pb, Cd, and Ni in the natural waters of the mine significantly exceeds the geochemical background. For a more detailed study of the behavior of heavy metals, equilibrium-kinetic modeling, which considers the dissolution rate of ore minerals and the accumulation of toxic elements over time, was applied. A comparison of modeling data and field observations agreed. It was also found that for accurate modeling of Fe behavior, it is necessary to consider the organic matter content. Despite some model limitations, such retrospective assessments allow us to approve the applicability of this method for forecasting estimates.
Reliability of Using Meteorological Data to Estimate Upwelling Events on the Galician Coast
Authors: Pérez-Orozco Raquel , López-Gómez Javier , Eguía-Oller Pablo , López-Pérez Jesús , de la Huz Rosario , Granada-Álvarez Enrique , Cerviño-Rodríguez Rodrigo
Published: October 2022

This work is related to the growing interest in the identification of upwelling periods in the Galician SW coast, since these are linked to the great biodiversity and richness of its waters. This paper aims to assess the feasibility of using meteorological data for the estimation of upwelling events in a robust, reliable, real-time and low-cost way. For this purpose, the quality of meteorological data from eight land stations and five coastal buoys located in the surroundings of the study area has been evaluated. This process was made by confronting the result of the meteorological-derived upwelling index calculation against the values provided by two reference oceanic models. In addition, the availability of historical data series has also been considered to finally select the data source that best describes the upwelling phenomena in the Toralla area. The results show that, of the sources studied, those that best meet the criteria of wide data availability and good estimation of the upwelling index are the Ons and Sálvora land stations; therefore, the former was chosen as the main source and the latter as a support. Coastal buoys were discarded due to the uncertainty regarding the availability and access to meteorological data.
Effects of Straw Mulching on Near-Surface Hydrological Process and Soil Loss in Slope Farmland of Red Soil
Authors: Yang Luyang , Duan Jian , Peng Lang , Zhang Xinyin , Guo Xiaomin , Yang Jie
Published: October 2022

Slope farmland is prone to soil erosion, especially in sub/tropical regions. However, our understanding of near-surface hydrology characteristics and their controlled factors in red soil sloping farmland remains limited. Here, we conducted simulated rainfall experiments to assess the impact of rainfall pattern, straw mulching, and soil structure on near-surface hydrological processes of red soil sloping farmland of southern China. Results showed that: (1) short duration-high intensity rain caused greater surface runoff and sediment production than did long duration-low intensity rain, whereas the variation pattern of subsurface flow exhibited the opposite trend; (2) tillage behavior could weaken the surface runoff intensity and promote the development of subsurface flow; (3) straw mulching increased the water infiltration rate and associated subsurface flow production (increased by 1.33~12.71 times), and thus reduced the surface runoff production (reduced by 99.68~100%). These findings highlight the crucial roles of rainfall pattern and straw mulching in regulating the spatial distribution pattern of rainwater and suggest that straw mulching can effectively reduce soil erosion via accelerating water infiltration and subsurface flow form in slope farmland of soil erosion in southern China.
History of Colonization of Jeju Island (Republic of Korea) by the Water Fleas (Crustacea: Cladocera) Is Reflected by the Seasonal Changes in Their Fauna and Species Associations
Authors: Kotov Alexey A. , Seleznev Dmitry G. , Garibian Petr G. , Korovchnsky Nikolai M. , Neretina Anna N. , Sinev Artem Y. , Jeong Hyun-Gi , Yang Hee-Min , Lee Wonchoel
Published: October 2022

The aim of this paper is to study the species composition, structure and seasonal dynamics of the cladoceran fauna and species associations in inland water bodies of Jeju Island (Republic of Korea). Only 47 taxa were found in 199 samples. Such faunal paucity could be explained by the existence of only a few types of aquatic environments on Jeju Island as compared to continental China and the Far East of Russia, with their great diversity of water types. We have demonstrated a high significance of the tropical species on Jeju. Our data confirm seasonal faunistic changes in the continental waters of Jeju Island. The rate of tropical taxa is highest in September, after the monsoon season, while the Far Eastern endemic taxa are more common in winter. At the same time, the contribution of Boreal taxa to the fauna of the island is low even in winter. Species associations have been revealed based on binominal distribution; they change significantly from summer to winter. However, a contribution of Boreal taxa to the species associations also is minimal (even in winter), whereas tropical taxa contribute to them greatly (including in winter). We can propose a rough scheme of faunal formation exploring the whole set of obtained information. Initially, at the earlier stages of the island formation, its fauna was consisted of some pre-Pleistocene taxa. Then, during the Pleistocene time, Jeju Island was secondarily interconnected with more southern territories, and tropical species have colonized it. Recent Boreal cladoceran invaders arrived at the island water bodies later when they were already inhabited by formed associations, and for this reason only few of them were able to settle down there. Such a scheme is a hypothesis which needs to be checked by the future phylogeographic studies.
AVALIAÇÃO MICROBIOLÓGICA DA QUALIDADE SANITÁRIA DA PRAIA DA GRACIOSA NA CIDADE DE PALMAS - TO
Authors: Rodrigues Lorhane , Albarello Gellen Luis Fernando , Cintra Marcos Rodrigues , Pereira Ernane Gerre
Published: October 2022

A constante preocupação relacionada a saúde pública, é temática de contínuos debates e pesquisas, a fim de prevenir doenças e infecções. A água de recreamento é uma fonte de contágio caso não esteja nos parâmetros ideais, trazendo risco à saúde humana. Diante desta afirmativa, o presente estudo objetiva avaliar a qualidade microbiológica da água da praia da Graciosa na cidade de Palmas – TO. Foram analisadas 21 amostras de água em sete pontos da praia, através da determinação de coliformes totais e termotolerantes pela técnica de tubos múltiplos e identificação da presença de E. coli, e contagem de Heterotróficos, sendo estes microrganismos utilizados como indicadores de contaminação fecal. Todas as amostras foram positivas para E. coli, 6 amostras indicaram contaminação por coliformes termotolerantes, e todas as amostras excederam o valor padrão de 500 UFC/mL de heterotróficos. Os resultados da análise de coliformes totais e fecais foram correlacionados com a Resolução CONAMA 274/2000,  em que apesar de 28% das amostras apresentarem contaminação por coliformes termotolerantes, os valores obtidos não ultrapassaram o limite de 80% das amostras estarem contaminadas de acordo com a resolução, sendo assim a água da praia da Graciosa é determinada como própria para o banho. A contagem de heterotróficos foi relacionado com a RDC N° 91, de 30 de Junho de 2016, em que os resultados demonstraram insatisfatórios. Apesar dos coliformes não exceder o valor estabelecido, é importante ressaltar que a referida praia deve estar em constante monitoramento em relação a sua qualidade sanitária, para não oferecer riscos à saúde humana.
Structural analysis of children’s morbidity to substantiate the design of a pharmacoeconomic study
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Belotsvetova L. I. , Kurashov M. M. ,   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow
Published: October 2022

The structure of child morbidity for 2015–2021 and the structure of visits to outpatient medical organizations in Moscow were analyzed to justify the design of a pharmacoeconomic study of the costs of treating children.
Analysis of adverse reactions of anticancer drugs in the Chuvash Republic
Authors:   Republican Clinical Oncological Dispensary of the Ministry of Health of the Chuvash Republic, Cheboksary, Zhuchkova S.M. ,   FSEI HE Chuvash State University named after I.N. Ulyanov, Cheboksary, Karamalikov S.A. ,   Republican Clinical Oncological Dispensary of the Ministry of Health of the Chuvash Republic, Cheboksary, Busalaeva E.I. ,   Republican Clinical Oncological Dispensary of the Ministry of Health of the Chuvash Republic, Cheboksary; FSEI HE Chuvash State University named after I.N. Ulyanov, Cheboksary
Published: October 2022

Due to the implementation of the national program “Fight against Oncological Diseases”, a number of anticancer drugs, mainly for targeted therapy and immunotherapy, are annually registered in Russia and included in the list of vital and essential medicines [1]. Purpose: to study the structure of adverse reactions (ADR) when using anticancer drugs based on the analysis of spontaneous reports in the Chuvash Republic for the period 01.09.2008 to 31.12.2021.
Evaluation of amoxicillin efficacy in the pharmacotherapy of bronchopulmonary diseases in children
Authors:   Tashkent Pediatric Medical Institute, Tashkent, Kasymova Sh.Sh. , Khabirova M. ,   Tashkent Pediatric Medical Institute, Tashkent
Published: October 2022

In recent years, the rational treatment of bronchopulmonary diseases in children has been developing in all directions and is of great importance in modern pediatrics. Medical statistics in different countries record a steady annual increase in the number of cases of respiratory infections, recurrent bronchitis, and bronchopneumonia. One of the main components of adequate etiopathogenetic treatment of bacterial infections, regardless of the severity and localization of the inflammatory process, is the rational choice of antibacterial agents. The urgent problem has been the safe pharmacotherapy of a growing organism, taking into account the etiology and pathogenesis of diseases, in accordance with the standard of treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the drug Amoxicillin, depending on the severity of the course, complication and comorbidity in children receiving inpatient treatment at the Tashkent Pediatric Medical Institute Clinic.
New cyanothioacetamide derivatives as potential pain relievers
Authors:   Lugansk State Medical University named after St. Luke, Lugansk, Bibik E.Yu. , Oleinik I.S. ,   Lugansk State Medical University named after St. Luke, Lugansk, Frolov K.A. ,   Lugansk State Medical University named after St. Luke, Lugansk, Dotsenko V.V. ,   Lugansk State Medical University named after St. Luke, Lugansk, Krivokolysko S.G. ,   Lugansk State Medical University named after St. Luke, Lugansk
Published: October 2022

The purpose of the research: to study the analgesic activity of the synthesized samples of new cyanothioacetamide derivatives in the classic hot plate test on white rats.
Differences in the development of domestic trade in the federal districts of Russia
Authors:   Basic Department of Trade Policy, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Karashchuk O. S. , Boldyasov A. I. ,   Higher School of Economics and Business, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics
Published: October 2022

Differences in the development of trade in certain regions of Russia create disproportions in meeting the demand for consumer goods and services of the country's residents living in different territories. The consequences of such differences are expressed in negative phenomena in the economy, including the migration of the population to regions with better consumption conditions. Therefore, the purpose of this article was to study the differences in the level of trade development in the federal districts of Russia, determine the composition of the lagging districts, and develop proposals for smoothing out territorial disproportions in the development of trade. The official statistical information of Russia by federal districts was used in order to determine the differences in the development of trade. The research methods used in the work included the dynamics comparison and evaluation. The article also considered the reasons for the disproportionate development of trade in different parts of the country. Based on the results of the study, the recommendations to overcome regional disproportions in the development of trade in Russia were made. Such proposals included the creation of a system of wholesale food markets based on public-private partnerships in accordance with the adopted state programs, as well as the revision of the system and tax rates in favor of regional and local budgets.