bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing Terrorism Casualties: Analyzing Policies Effectiveness under a Systems Perspective
Authors: De Angelis Thomas , Armenia Stefano , De Angelis Angelo
Published: April 2023

The present paper seeks to analyze and understand terrorism as a comprehensive process that, through various stages, transforms a “normal” individual with some grievances into a radicalized agent ready and available to be recruited and trained to perform terror attacks that produce casualties. The goal of this analysis is to produce recommendations regarding the leverage points in which policy interventions may be used to reduce the number of casualties that terror attacks in the west, and specifically in Europe, produce. To this end, the analysis is divided into two main sections. The first section will focus on a careful study of key literature regarding terrorism. A deep analysis is conducted in order to construct a qualitative understanding of radicalization and terrorism, finding common points among what is analyzed and developing a strong overview and understanding of the topic. The second section—the core of the paper—focuses on creating a novel System Dynamics model and on identifying leverage points. In this section, the System Dynamics model is used to construct a simulation model based on the findings from the first section. This model is then simulated on Silico.app® through various scenarios in order to identify leverage points in which policies would be best able to reach the stated goal of reducing casualties. Following these simulations, a few leverage points were evidenced, and some effective policies were also identified. The last section recaps the main findings of the analysis, its limitations and future extensions of the model (so to allow for deeper and more precise policy insight), and it is argued that System Dynamics can constitute a very powerful modeling approach in the context of counter terrorism policy making.
The Reform of Curricula in the Spanish University System: How Well Matched Are New Bachelor’s Degrees to Jobs
Authors: Salas-Velasco Manuel
Published: April 2023

This study looks at how well bachelor’s degree holders in Spain match into jobs five years after graduation. Based on workers’ self-assessment, education–job mismatch is defined as the discrepancy between the formal qualifications that individuals earned at Spanish universities and those that are required by jobs. By estimating a multinomial logit model, this research identifies fields of study that are associated with increased likelihood of a particular educational mismatch status. Results indicate that university graduates from highly specialized bachelor’s degree programs are more likely to work in a graduate job that is related to their field of education. In particular, graduates with degrees that entail specific human capital, such as health sciences degrees and hard science and engineering degrees, are more likely to be well-matched in their current jobs. In contrast, the results show a higher likelihood of over-qualification (recent graduates who are in non-graduate jobs) for social and legal sciences degrees and arts and humanities degrees. Gender appears to play no role in the matching process; however, the subject-specific knowledge that graduates have gained from their time in higher education is important. As a novelty, this study also identifies, for a sub-sample of workers, the process through which a good match is achieved—that is, how individuals self-select to accept jobs in which they can achieve a good match. The regression results are based on micro data from a nationally representative random sample of the first cohort of undergraduates after the Bologna curriculum reform.
Natural Polyphenols—Resveratrol, Quercetin, Magnolol, and β-Catechin—Block Certain Aspects of Heroin Addiction and Modulate Striatal IL-6 and TNF-α
Authors: ElShebiney Shaimaa , Elgohary Rania , El-Shamarka Marwa , Mowaad Noha , Abulseoud Osama A.
Published: April 2023

We have examined the effects of four different polyphenols in attenuating heroin addiction using a conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. Adult male Sprague Dawley rats received heroin (alternating with saline) in escalating doses starting from 10 mg/kg, i.p. up to 80 mg/kg/d for 14 consecutive days. The rats were treated with distilled water (1 mL), quercetin (50 mg/kg/d), β-catechin (100 mg/kg/d), resveratrol (30 mg/kg/d), or magnolol (50 mg/kg/d) through oral gavage for 7 consecutive days, 30 min before heroin administration, starting on day 8. Heroin withdrawal manifestations were assessed 24 h post last heroin administration following the administration of naloxone (1 mg/kg i.p). Heroin CPP reinstatement was tested following a single dose of heroin (10 mg/kg i.p.) administration. Striatal interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were quantified (ELISA) after naloxone-precipitated heroin withdrawal. Compared to the vehicle, the heroin-administered rats spent significantly more time in the heroin-paired chamber (p < 0.0001). Concomitant administration of resveratrol and quercetin prevented the acquisition of heroin CPP, while resveratrol, quercetin, and magnolol blocked heroin-triggered reinstatement. Magnolol, quercetin, and β-catechin blocked naloxone-precipitated heroin withdrawal and increased striatal IL-6 concentration (p < 0.01). Resveratrol administration was associated with significantly higher withdrawal scores compared to those of the control animals (p < 0.0001). The results of this study show that different polyphenols target specific behavioral domains of heroin addiction in a CPP model and modulate the increase in striatal inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 observed during naloxone-precipitated heroin withdrawal. Further research is needed to study the clinical utility of polyphenols and to investigate the intriguing finding that resveratrol enhances, rather than attenuates naloxone-precipitated heroin withdrawal.
Magnesium Supplementation Alleviates the Toxic Effects of Silica Nanoparticles on the Kidneys, Liver, and Adrenal Glands in Rats
Authors: Badawy Mohamed Moharram , Sayed-Ahmed Mohamed Z. , Almoshari Yosif , Alqahtani Saad S. , Alshahrani Saeed , Mabrouk Heba Allah Ali , Abd-Elsalam Marwa M. , Alkashif Khalid , Ahmad Sarfaraz , El-Sebaey Ahmed M. , Hamama Mohamed G. , Ahmed Dalia Alsaied Moustafa
Published: April 2023

Concerns regarding the possible hazards to human health have been raised by the growing usage of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) in a variety of applications, including industrial, agricultural, and medical applications. This in vivo subchronic study was conducted to assess the following: (1) the toxicity of orally administered SiNPs on the liver, kidneys, and adrenal glands; (2) the relationship between SiNPs exposure and oxidative stress; and (3) the role of magnesium in mitigating these toxic effects. A total of 24 Sprague Dawley male adult rats were divided equally into four groups, as follows: control group, magnesium (Mg) group (50 mg/kg/d), SiNPs group (100 mg/kg/d), and SiNPs+ Mg group. Rats were treated with SiNPs by oral gavage for 90 days. The liver transaminases, serum creatinine, and cortisol levels were evaluated. The tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were measured. Additionally, the weight of the organs and the histopathological changes were examined. Our results demonstrated that SiNPs exposure caused increased weight in the kidneys and adrenal glands. Exposure to SiNPs was also associated with significant alterations in liver transaminases, serum creatinine, cortisol, MDA, and GSH. Additionally, histopathological changes were significantly reported in the liver, kidneys, and adrenal glands of SiNPs-treated rats. Notably, when we compared the control group with the treated groups with SiNPs and Mg, the results revealed that magnesium could mitigate SiNPs-induced biochemical and histopathologic changes, confirming its effective role as an antioxidant that reduced the accumulation of SiNPs in tissues, and that it returns the levels of liver transaminases, serum creatinine, cortisol, MDA, and GSH to almost normal values.
Two-Step Epimerization of Deoxynivalenol by Quinone-Dependent Dehydrogenase and Candida parapsilosis ACCC 20221
Authors: Tang Yuqian , Xiao Dingna , Liu Chendi
Published: April 2023

Deoxynivalenol (DON), one of the main mycotoxins with enteric toxicity, genetic toxicity, and immunotoxicity, and is widely found in corn, barley, wheat, and rye. In order to achieve effective detoxification of DON, the least toxic 3-epi-DON (1/357th of the toxicity of DON) was chosen as the target for degradation. Quinone-dependent dehydrogenase (QDDH) reported from Devosia train D6-9 detoxifies DON by converting C3-OH to a ketone group with toxicity of less than 1/10 that of DON. In this study, the recombinant plasmid pPIC9K-QDDH was constructed and successfully expressed in Pichia pastoris GS115. Within 12 h, recombinant QDDH converted 78.46% of the 20 μg/mL DON to 3-keto-DON. Candida parapsilosis ACCC 20221 was screened for its activity in reducing 86.59% of 3-keto-DON within 48 h; its main products were identified as 3-epi-DON and DON. In addition, a two-step method was performed for epimerizing DON: 12 h catalysis by recombinant QDDH and 6 h transformation of the C. parapsilosis ACCC 20221 cell catalyst. The production rates of 3-keto-DON and 3-epi-DON were 51.59% and 32.57%, respectively, after manipulation. Through this study, effective detoxification of 84.16% of DON was achieved, with the products being mainly 3-keto-DON and 3-epi-DON.
Predominance of Multidrug Resistant Escherichia coli of Environmental Phylotype in Different Environments of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Bhowmik Anindita , Shah SM Tanjil , Goswami Sharmistha , Sirajee Ahmad Salman , Ahsan Sunjukta
Published: April 2023

Considering the ecological diversity of E. coli, the main aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, phylogroup diversity, and antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli isolated from 383 different clinical and environmental sources. In total, varied prevalence was observed of the 197 confirmed E. coli that were isolated (human–100%, animal–67.5%, prawn–49.23%, soil–30.58%, and water–27.88%). Of these isolates, 70 (36%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR). MDR E. coli was significantly associated with their sources (χ2 = 29.853, p = 0.001). Humans (51.67%) and animals (51.85%) carried more MDR E. coli than other environments. The eae gene indicative of recent fecal contamination was not detected in any isolate, indicating that these E. coli isolates could be present in these environments for a long time and became naturalized. Phylogroup B1 (48.22%) was the predominant group, being present in all hosts analyzed and with the commensal E. coli group A (26.9%) representing the second predominant group. According to chi-square analysis, phylogroup B1 was significantly associated with E. coli from humans (p = 0.024), soil (p < 0.001) and prawn samples (p < 0.001). Human samples were significantly associated with phylogroup B1 (p = 0.024), D (p < 0.001), and F (p = 0.016) of E. coli strains, whereas phylogroup A (p < 0.001), C (p < 0.001), and E (p = 0.015) were associated with animal samples. Correspondence analysis results also indicated the association of these phylogroups with their hosts/sources. The findings of this study exhibited a non-random distribution of phylogenetic groups, though the diversity index was highest for human E. coli phylogroups.
Modified Stückelberg Formalism: Free Massive Abelian 2-Form Theory in 4D
Authors: Rao A. K. , Malik R. P.
Published: April 2023

We demonstrate that the celebrated Stückelberg formalism is modified in the case of a massive four (3 + 1)-dimensional (4D) Abelian 2-form theory due to the presence of a self-duality discrete symmetry in the theory. The latter symmetry entails upon the modified 4D massive Abelian 2-form gauge theory to become a massive model of Hodge theory within the framework of Becchi–Rouet–Stora–Tyutin (BRST) formalism where there is the existence of a set of (anti-)co-BRST transformations corresponding to the usual nilpotent (anti-)BRST transformations. The latter exist in any arbitrary dimension of spacetime for the usual Stückelberg-modified massive Abelian 2-form gauge theory. The modification in the Stückelberg technique is backed by the precise mathematical arguments from the differential geometry where the exterior derivative and Hodge duality operator play the decisive roles. The modified version of the Stückelberg technique remains invariant under the discrete duality transformations which also establish a precise and deep connection between the off-shell nilpotent (anti-)BRST and (anti-)co-BRST transformations. We have clarified a simple trick of using the equations of motion to remove the higher derivative terms in the appropriate Lagrangian densities so that our 4D theory can become consistent.
Constraining Young Hot Jupiter Occurrence Rate in Stellar Associations Using 2-min Cadence TESS Data
Authors: Fang Yuanqing , Ma Bo , Chen Chen , Wen Yongxin
Published: April 2023

The characterization of young planet distribution is essential for our understanding of the early evolution of exoplanets. Here we conduct a systematic search for young planets from young open clusters and associations using the 2-min cadence TESS survey data. We obtain TESS light curves for a total of 1075 young stars, which are selected with the aid of Gaia data. There are a total of 16 possible transiting signals. After a thorough vetting process, some have been confirmed as planets, and others are likely caused by eclipsing binaries. The final sample contains six confirmed planets, of which one is a hot Jupiter. After accounting for survey completeness using a Monte Carlo simulation, we can put a 95% confidence level upper limit on the hot Jupiter (P < 10 days, Rp = 0.7–2.9 RJup) occurrence rate orbiting stars in young associations at <5.1% and a 68% confidence level upper limit at <2.5%. We estimate that a sample size of ∼5000 dwarf stars with 2-min cadence data will be needed to reach a 0.5% upper limit on the hot Jupiter occurrence rate, which is the typical hot Jupiter occurrence rate around main sequence stars. Thus, future studies with larger sample sizes are required to put more constraints on planet formation and evolution theories.
Perspectives Associated with Human Papillomavirus Vaccination in Adults: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Cernasev Alina , Hohmeier Kenneth C. , Oyedeji Oluwafemifola , Hagemann Tracy , Kintziger Kristina W. , Wisdom Taylor , Gatwood Justin
Published: April 2023

Background: In the last several decades, vaccine hesitancy has become a significant global public health concern. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has been on the United States of America (USA) market since 2006, with extended approval up to age 45 granted in 2018. To date, there is limited research evaluating barriers and facilitators related to HPV vaccine initiation among adults and the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals’ vaccine-related behaviors. This study’s main objective was to characterize the contributing factors that could promote or inhibit HPV vaccine uptake for adults. Methods: A qualitative approach consisting of focus group discussions (FGDs) was used for this study. The FGD guide was informed by concepts from the Transtheoretical Model, Health Belief Model, and Social Cognitive Theory. All virtual FGDs were led by two researchers, who recorded audio for data collection. The data were transcribed by a third party, and the transcripts were imported into Dedoose® software and analyzed using the six steps recommended by thematic analysis. Results: A total of 35 individuals participated in 6 focus groups over a 6-month period. Thematic analysis revealed four themes: (1) Intrinsic motivators for HPV vaccination, (2) Extrinsic motivators for HPV vaccination, (3) Vaccine promotion strategies, and (4) Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on vaccine hesitancy. Conclusion: Both intrinsic and extrinsic factors play a role in influencing HPV vaccine uptake, and such considerations can guide efforts to improve the odds of HPV vaccination in working-age adults.
Multicentric Observational Study on Safety and Tolerability of COVID-19 Vaccines in Patients with Angioedema with C1 Inhibitor Deficiency: Data from Italian Network on Hereditary and Acquired Angioedema (ITACA)
Authors: Parente Roberta , Sartorio Silvio , Brussino Luisa , De Pasquale Tiziana , Zoli Alessandra , Agolini Stefano , Di Agosta Ester , Quattrocchi Paolina , Borrelli Paolo , Bignardi Donatella , Petraroli Angelica , Senter Riccardo , Popescu Janu Valentina , Cogliati Chiara , Guarino Maria Domenica , Rossi Oliviero , Firinu Davide , Pucci Stefano , Spadaro Giuseppe , Triggiani Massimo , Cancian Mauro , Zanichelli Andrea
Published: April 2023

Angioedema due to C1 inhibitor deficiency (AE-C1-INH) is a rare disease characterized by recurrent and unpredictable attacks of angioedema. Multiple trigger factors, including trauma, emotional stress, infectious diseases, and drugs, could elicit angioedema attacks. The aim of this study was to collect data on the safety and tolerability of COVID-19 vaccines in a population of patients affected by AE-C1-INH. Adult patients with AE-C1-INH, followed by Reference Centers belonging to the Italian Network for Hereditary and Acquired Angioedema (ITACA), were enrolled in this study. Patients received nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccines and vaccines with adenovirus vectors. Data on acute attacks developed in the 72 h following COVID-19 vaccinations were collected. The frequency of attacks in the 6 months after the COVID-19 vaccination was compared with the rate of attacks registered in the 6 months before the first vaccination. Between December 2020 and June 2022, 208 patients (118 females) with AE-C1-INH received COVID-19 vaccines. A total of 529 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine were administered, and the majority of patients received mRNA vaccines. Forty-eight attacks of angioedema (9%) occurred within 72 h following COVID-19 vaccinations. About half of the attacks were abdominal. Attacks were successfully treated with on-demand therapy. No hospitalizations were registered. There was no increase in the monthly attack rate following the vaccination. The most common adverse reactions were pain at the site of injection and fever. Our results show that adult patients with angioedema due to C1 inhibitor deficiency can be safely vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 in a controlled medical setting and should always have available on-demand therapies.
The Impact of a Revised National Childhood Immunization Schedule on Vaccination Defaulters
Authors: Tan Ngiap Chuan , Pang Jeremy , Koh Eileen
Published: April 2023

Immunization schedules affect community vaccine uptake rates, especially in children who have defaulted on their regular immunization timelines. In 2020, Singapore revised its National Childhood Immunization Schedule (NCIS) to incorporate two new combination vaccines: the hexavalent hepatitis, diphtheria, acellular pertussis, tetanus (DTaP), hemophilus influenzae b (Hib), inactivated poliovirus (IPV) (6-in-1), and the quadrivalent measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccines, thus reducing the mean number of clinic visits and vaccine doses by two. Our database study aims to evaluate the impact of the 2020 NCIS on catch-up vaccination uptake rates in children at 18 and 24 months of age and the catch-up immunization rates of individual vaccines at two years. Vaccination data from two cohorts, in 2018 (n = 11,371) and in 2019 (n = 11,719), were extracted from the Electronic Medical Records. Catch-up vaccination rates increased by 5.2% and 2.6% in children on the new NCIS at 18 and 24 months, respectively. The uptake of individual 5-in-1 (DTaP, IPV, Hib), MMR, and pneumococcal vaccines increased by 3.7%, 4.1%, and 1.9% at 18 months. Reduced vaccination doses and visits in the new NCIS bring direct and indirect benefits to parents and promote vaccination adherence for their children. These findings highlight the importance of timelines in improving catch-up vaccination rates in any NCIS.
Prevalence of Cardiac Lesions in Cases of Bovine Blackleg in Tennessee (USA), 2004–2018
Authors: Okafor Chika C. , Uzal Francisco A. , Culligan Caitlin M. , Newkirk Kim M.
Published: April 2023

Blackleg is a common cause of death in cattle, mostly caused by the bacterium Clostridium chauvoei. Cardiac lesions were traditionally considered uncommon in cases of blackleg in cattle until a 2018 study reported otherwise. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence of cardiac disease among cattle that died of blackleg in Tennessee, USA. The outcome of this study would reinforce the importance of assessing cardiac lesions in suspected cases of blackleg in cattle. The University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center database searched for cattle with a confirmed diagnosis of blackleg necropsied between 2004 and 2018. Of the 120 necropsy reports, 37 had a diagnosis of blackleg. Histology slides of skeletal muscle (26/37) and the heart (26/37) were reviewed to confirm the presence of supportive lesions. Of the 37 cases of blackleg identified, 26 animals (70.3%) had cardiac lesions, including 4 (10.8%) that had only cardiac involvement without skeletal muscle lesions. Specifically, (5.4%; 2/37) had only necrotizing myocarditis; (13.5%; 5/37) had only fibrinous or fibrinosuppurative pericarditis, epicarditis, or endocarditis; (51.4%; 19/26) had a combination of myocarditis and pericarditis, epicarditis, or endocarditis; and (29.7%; 11/37) had no lesions. Furthermore, of the 26 cases with cardiac lesions, 24 cases had gross lesions, while 2 cases were identified only by microscopic examination. This indicates that gross examination alone is insufficient to identify cardiac involvement in blackleg cases in cattle. Contrary to traditional perceptions, cardiac lesions in cases of bovine blackleg could be as high as 70% and are most often associated with skeletal muscle lesions. The prevalence of cardiac lesions in cases of blackleg in cattle may be higher when the heart is examined microscopically than if it is only evaluated grossly. Pathologists should specifically evaluate the heart for lesions in suspected cases of blackleg in cattle and utilize microscopic examination when gross lesions are absent.
A Comparative Analysis of Multiple Machine Learning Methods for Flood Routing in the Yangtze River
Authors: Zhou Liwei , Kang Ling
Published: April 2023

Obtaining more accurate flood information downstream of a reservoir is crucial for guiding reservoir regulation and reducing the occurrence of flood disasters. In this paper, six popular ML models, including the support vector regression (SVR), Gaussian process regression (GPR), random forest regression (RFR), multilayer perceptron (MLP), long short-term memory (LSTM) and gated recurrent unit (GRU) models, were selected and compared for their effectiveness in flood routing of two complicated reaches located at the upper and middle main stream of the Yangtze River. The results suggested that the performance of the MLP, LSTM and GRU models all gradually improved and then slightly decreased as the time lag increased. Furthermore, the MLP, LSTM and GRU models outperformed the SVR, GPR and RFR models, and the GRU model demonstrated superior performance across a range of efficiency criteria, including mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), root mean square error (RMSE), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (NSE), Taylor skill score (TSS) and Kling–Gupta efficiency (KGE). Specifically, the GRU model achieved reductions in MAPE and RMSE of at least 7.66% and 3.80% in the first case study and reductions of 19.51% and 11.76% in the second case study. The paper indicated that the GRU model was the most appropriate choice for flood routing in the Yangtze River.
An Event-Based Stochastic Parametric Rainfall Simulator (ESPRS) for Urban Stormwater Simulation and Performance in a Sponge City
Authors: Yang Yuanyuan , Xu Xiaoyan , Liu Dengfeng
Published: April 2023

The temporal heterogeneity of rainfall is substantial in urban catchments, and it often has huge impacts on stormwater simulation and management. Using a design storm with a fixed pattern may cause uncertainties in hydrological modeling. Here, we propose an event-based stochastic parametric rainfall simulator (ESPRS) for stormwater simulation in a sponge city with green roofs, permeable pavements, and bioretention cells. In the ESPRS, we used five distributions to fit the measured rainfall events and evaluated their performance using Akaike’s Information Criterion, Anderson—Darling goodness-of-fit test, and p-values. The vast rainfall time series data generated using the ESPRS were used to run the storm water management model for outflow simulations in the catchment, thus revealing the influence of temporal rainfall characteristics on the hydrological responses. The results showed the following: (1) The ESPRS outperforms the Chicago method in predicting extreme precipitation events, and its control factors are the rainfall peak period, rainfall peak fraction, and cumulative rainfall fraction at the peak period. (2) The best-fit functions for the rainfall depth in each period have different distributions, mostly being in lognormal, gamma, and generalized extreme value distributions. (3) Rear-type precipitation events with high peak fractions are the most negative pattern for outflow control. The developed ESPRS can suitably reproduce rainfall time series for urban stormwater management.
Hydrochemical Characteristics and Water Quality of Shallow Groundwater in Desert Area of Kunyu City, Southern Margin of Tarim Basin, China
Authors: Tang Runchi , Dong Shuning , Zhang Mengfei , Zhou Zhenfang , Zhang Chenghang , Li Pei , Bai Mengtong
Published: April 2023

The Tarim Basin in Xinjiang is located in the northwest inland arid region of China, but research shows that the region is rich in groundwater resources. To understand the hydrochemical characteristics and water quality of shallow groundwater in the desert area of the southern margin of the Tarim Basin, the groundwater was systematically sampled and tested. The ion characteristics and evolution mechanism of groundwater were analyzed by mathematical statistics, Schukarev classification, Piper three-line diagram, Gibbs model and ion ratio. Water quality was evaluated by the water quality index method (WQI) and irrigation water suitability-related parameters. The results indicated that the dominant cation in the study area is Na+, and the main dominant anions are SO42− and Cl−. According to total dissolved solids (TDS), the groundwater mainly belongs to brackish water and semi-saline water. The hydrochemical chemistry types are mainly Cl·SO4-Na·Mg type, followed by Cl-Na type, and the ion source is mainly the weathering and dissolution of evaporation rock, silicate and sulphate. The hydrochemical process is primarily controlled by evaporation concentration and rock weathering, and the cation exchange is weak. Furthermore, the WQI spatial distribution map shows that the groundwater in the middle of the study area is unsuitable for drinking and there are two areas with high WQI values greater than 500. In contrast, the good-excellent groundwater is scattered in the East. The groundwater generally has high to very high salinity, with significant changes in alkalinity. In addition, 54% of the water samples exceed the magnesium hazard (MH) limit. Therefore, certain measures should be taken before irrigation. This study has important implications for the rational development and reasonable utilization of local groundwater.
Impacts of Riverine Floods on Morphodynamics in the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Fu Yutao , Bellerby Richard G. J. , Ji Hongyu , Chen Shenliang , Fan Yaoshen , Li Peng
Published: April 2023

The geomorphological stability and ecological environment of megadeltas worldwide are of vital importance for their sustainable development. Deltaic hydro-morphodynamics is extremely sensitive to high riverine flow due to reduced sediment supply. However, the morphological evolution and response of deltas under high riverine flow have remained inadequately quantified. As one of the typical megadeltas, the Yellow River Delta (YRD), is becoming increasingly sensitive to environmental changes and intensified human interventions. In this study, a numerical model and field data were used to investigate the hydrodynamic changes and morphodynamic evolution induced by extreme river discharge in the YRD. The numerical experiments with different runoff scenarios reveal that high-energy riverine floods can cause significant hydrodynamic changes in bed shear stresses, water levels, and flow velocities, particularly in the abandoned river mouth. Moreover, it enhances the ebb-dominated tidal asymmetry, which considerably intensifies fluvial sediment resuspension and transport processes. The results also show high-energy riverine floods in the flood seasons trigger severe erosion in the Yellow River submerged delta, with a net erosion volume reaching −0.07 × 108 m3/year. The hydrodynamic increment in the abandoned river mouth is more significant, and therefore, severe erosion occurs, with the maximum erosion thickness reaching 7 m. These findings highlight the role of high riverine floods on the hydro-sediment dynamics of large river deltas under a sediment starvation condition.
Social and Property Losses from Fires in Russia: Statistical Analysis
Authors: Zagumennova M. V. , Firsov A. G. , Malemina E. N. , Chechetina T. A.
Published: April 2023

The article analyzes the general situation in the Russian Federation related to fires (based on data for 2021 and 2022). Characteristics of social damage are given along with the data on the distribution of those killed in fires according to their social status, which allows for suppositions about the strong influence of a social component in revealing the basic factors forming a fire death rate indicator. Considerable attention in the publication is given to the characteristics of the fire property damage statistics. Taking into account the advance research into different approaches to assessing the subject of the study, the authors explain the preference of calculation methods for assessing the economic damage from fires. Based on statistical data on fires and their consequences, calculations of direct fire property damage were carried out. To raise analytical level of the study, statistical groupings were built, which, according to the authors, made it possible to make more adequate management decisions to minimize social and material damage from fires.
Manières de parenté. Les formes de l’adoption dans la région de Montpellier au XVe siècle
Authors: Laumonier Lucie
Published: April 2023

In dieser Studie untersucht die Autorin die unterschiedlichen Formen, die die Adoption in Montpellier und seiner Region, dem Niederlanguedoc, im 15. Jh. annehmen konnte. Grundlage dieser Studie sind notarielle Quellen, die sich mit Adoptionsverträgen beschäftigen und städtische Quellen, die von der Versorgung von waisenkindern und ausgesetzten Kindern handeln. Der Artikel spricht auch die juristischen und gesellschaftlichen Besonderheiten der städtischen Verzeichnise und Urkunden zwischen Erwachsenen an. Die Verträge zwischen den Ratsherren aus Montpellier, den Konsuln, und den aufnehmenden Familien werfen Fragen über die Beziehungen zwischen dem «Fosterage » und der Adoption auf.
Des « bastides » avant l’ère des bastides classiques
Authors: Berthe Maurice
Published: April 2023

L’usage du terme bastide peut prêter à confusion. Au Moyen Âge, ce mot a deux significations : celle de petite agglomération fortifiée et celle de village de peuplement organisé (bastida sive populatio). Ce dernier sens, devenu classique, l’a finalement emporté dans l’esprit de la plupart des médiévistes. C’est occulter pour autant un phénomène d’ampleur qui a parcouru une large France méridionale (de l’Aquitaine à la Provence), celui des bastidae sive munitiones qui sont édifiées dès la première moitié du XIIIe siècle. L’enquête statistique, toponymique, topographique, chronologique et photographique qui a été menée révèle que ces sites de hauteur et de faible étendue territoriale ont été fondés par des princes et de puissants lignages de chevaliers ruraux mais aussi par des milites de second rang et des institutions religieuses. Leurs traits spécifiques sont illustrés par deux exemples représentatifs : Labastide-Murat (Quercy) et Lamothe-Bézat (Agenais).
Les magistrats urbains dans la France méridionale sous l’Ancien Régime : diversité des messages et des représentations
Authors: Coste Laurent
Published: April 2023

Depuis le Moyen Âge, les autorités municipales du Midi ont pris l’habitude de faire exécuter par des peintres locaux un tableau de groupe des magistrats de la ville après chaque élection. Ils font aussi réaliser des portraits individuels destinés à décorer les hôtels particuliers de chacun des édiles. Ces oeuvres, de facture souvent assez conventionnelle, participent de la volonté de manifester l’autorité municipale aux habitants. Les artistes peignent d’abord un corps en représentation, mais les individualités s’affirment peu à peu sous le pinceau des meilleurs artistes, comme Jean Chalette à Toulouse. Il s’agit avant tout de montrer des magistrats fidèles au roi et inscrivant leur action dans une France chrétienne, même si le contexte religieux s’estompe peu à peu au cours du xVIIe siècle. Les représentants en mission de la Convention détruisirent des portraits qui représentaient la vieille société hiérarchique d’Ancien Régime.
De la coutume à l’écrit : l’enquête sur le péage de Montpezat (Ardèche) de 1379
Authors: Bréchon Franck
Published: April 2023

Les tarifs de péages ont fait l’objet d’une attention soutenue depuis plusieurs décennies en raison des informations qu’ils apportent sur l’histoire du commerce, des et des circulations. Cependant, les péages n’ont encore que peu fait l’objet d’une étude pour eux-mêmes, portant sur leur gestion et les modalités pratiques de leur perception. Une enquête réalisée en 1379 à Montpezat (Ardèche) livre à ce sujet des informations relativement précises permettant de comprendre comme cette institution seigneuriale est gérée et comme elle s’affermit à la fin du Moyen Âge, passant d’un fonctionnement coutumier à une gestion écrite des droits. Outre ces éléments, l’enquête permet de cerner le mouvement commercial dans une haute vallée cévenole ouverte tout à la fois sur les plaines du Languedoc et sur les hautes terres du Massif central.
Ce que peut nous dire une bibliothèque. La bibliothèque Aurore à l'Université Fudan de Shanghaï
Authors: Chu Xiao-Quan
Published: April 2023

Dans la bibliothèque de l'Université Fudan à Shanghaï, les trois étages supérieurs sont réservés au département des fonds spéciaux qui, pour un esprit fureteur, céderaient bien des histoires fascinantes, non pas simplement à travers les pages jaunies mais aussi par les circonstances de leur acquisition, de leur assemblage et de leurs voyages pleins de détours avant de s'y être installés dans ces étagères solides. Si l'on monte au dernier étage, le huitième, on trouve une belle collection de vieux livres français dont le frontispice porte tous le tampon qui révèle leur provenance : l'Université Aurore, en son temps l'unique université française en Chine.
Urinary Metabolomic Profile of Youth at Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease in Nicaragua
Authors: Hall Samantha M. , Raines Nathan H. , Ramirez-Rubio Oriana , Amador Juan José , López-Pilarte Damaris , O'Callaghan-Gordo Cristina , Gil-Redondo Rubén , Embade Nieves , Millet Oscar , Peng Xiaojing , Vences Selene , Keogh Sinead A. , Delgado Iris S. , Friedman David J. , Brooks Daniel R. , Leibler Jessica H.
Published: April 2023

Key Points

Urinary concentrations of glycine, a molecule associated with thermoregulation, were elevated among youth from a high-risk region for chronic kidney disease of non-traditional etiology (CKDnt).

Urinary concentrations of pyruvate, citric acid, and inosine were lower among youth at higher risk of CKDnt, suggesting renal stress.

Metabolomic analyses may shed light on early disease processes or profiles or risk in the context of CKDnt.

Background

CKD of a nontraditional etiology (CKDnt) is responsible for high mortality in Central America, although its causes remain unclear. Evidence of kidney dysfunction has been observed among youth, suggesting that early kidney damage contributing to CKDnt may initiate in childhood.

Methods

Urine specimens of young Nicaraguan participants 12–23 years without CKDnt (n=136) were analyzed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy for 50 metabolites associated with kidney dysfunction. Urinary metabolite levels were compared by, regional CKDnt prevalence, sex, age, and family history of CKDnt using supervised statistical methods and pathway analysis in MetaboAnalyst. Magnitude of associations and changes over time were assessed through multivariable linear regression.

Results

In adjusted analyses, glycine concentrations were higher among youth from high-risk regions (β=0.82, [95% confidence interval, 0.16 to 1.85]; P = 0.01). Pyruvate concentrations were lower among youth with low eGFR (β= −0.36 [95% confidence interval, −0.57 to −0.04]; P = 0.03), and concentrations of other citric acid cycle metabolites differed by key risk factors. Over four years, participants with low eGFR experienced greater declines in 1-methylnicotinamide and 2-oxoglutarate and greater increases in citrate and guanidinoacetate concentrations.

Conclusion

Urinary concentration of glycine, a molecule associated with thermoregulation and kidney function preservation, was higher among youth in high-risk CKDnt regions, suggestive of greater heat exposure or renal stress. Lower pyruvate concentrations were associated with low eGFR, and citric acid cycle metabolites, such as pyruvate, likely relate to mitochondrial respiration rates in the kidneys. Participants with low eGFR experienced longitudinal declines in concentrations of 1-methylnicotinamide, an anti-inflammatory metabolite associated with anti-fibrosis in tubule cells. These findings merit further consideration in research on the origins of CKDnt.
WORKER ADAPTATION AND LABOR RELATIONS
Authors: BRYUKHINA E.R.
Published: April 2023

The conceptand typesof adaptationexperienced by an employee and employer during labor relationships are analyzed in the paper. Staffing and staff training issues are a priority in the modern world. When entering into labor relationships, the worker is in a new work group and starts to perform employment duties in a new position. This requires adaptation. Adaptation is a multifaceted phenomenon (process). In the author’s opinion, it can vary, including the scenarios arising during legal relationships. As is noted in the paper, there are almost no provisions regarding legal regulation of the adaptation process in the current labor legislation. Adaptation is classified as occupational and non-occupational. In the framework of labor relationships, occupational adaptation is of especial interest, since it includes professional, psychophysiological, sociopsychological, organizational, economic and labor adaptations. An analysis of professional and labor adaptation in terms of their definitions and contents has identified their differences. The paper is an attempt to research the issue of worker adaptation through the lens of labor legislation. Mentorship is definitely a component of professional adaptation. There is a special focus on the lack of any provisions regulating the mentorship institution in the Labor Code of the Russian Federation. The need to fill this gap by introducing supplements and amendments into the existing legal regulation mechanics has been pointed out. The conclusion has been drawn about the link between the probation period established with a labor contract and the professional or labor adaptation of the worker. Additionally, the author has made the assumption that probation upon entry into employment should be seen not only as the adaptation of a worker to a new workplace, but as the adaptation of an employer to a new employee as well. Among other things, it is a period when the worker’s adequacy for the assigned job is verified. The opinion has been expressed that it is necessary to standardize the mentorship institution in the Labor Code of the Russian Federation.
FUNCTIONS OF LEGAL POSITIONS OF SUPREME FEDERAL COURTS IN LABOR LAW
Authors: KOVAL V.P.
Published: April 2023

Legal positions of supreme federal courts in the Russian Federation have a direct effect on the labor legislation, law enforcement practices, as well as the subject and method of labor law. Certain forms of this influence have not been studied by the science of labor law until recently that results in unlocked theoretical and practical potential for judicial legal positions on labor disputes. To discover the influence of these legal positions on the industry in general, their main functions shall be identified. Through philosophical, general-theoretical and special juridical analysis of academic literature, labor legislation, law enforcement practices, and international legal acts the attributes of the functions of legal positions of supreme federal courts have been identified, the relevant definition has been articulated, the structure of functions has been shown, and specific types of these functions have been discovered. The theoretical structures worked out during the research can be applied in practice as well. On the national level - to solve the problems of platform employment, to ensure a balance in unity and differentiation in labor law, and to improve the mechanism for social partnership. On the international level - for the Eurasian Economic Union member states to solve the problems associated with human resources mobility, protection of working migrants, social partnership, introduction of international labor standards.
RESTRICTIONS FOR REMOTE WORK OF IT SPECIALISTS LIVING ABROAD: EXPERIENCE AND CHALLENGES OF EAEU MEMBER STATES
Authors: ZAITSEVA L.V.
Published: April 2023

In the context of sanctions pressure on Russia the issues of import substitution in the field of digital technologies are getting even more urgent. Highly qualified specialists with respective competencies are in short demand in the country. The government take some measures to that end, but they can solve all the problems. Engagement of required specialists from abroad - those working on a remote basis - could improve the situation. However, there are certain unresolved issues in the labor legislation of the Russian Federation and some other countries, including members of international economic integration organizations such as the Eurasian Economic Union that hinder this process. Identification of hindrances and restrictions preventing free movement of human resources in EAEU member states and efficient use of remote work in the field of IT is what this paper is dedicated to. To that end the actual situation unfolding in the labor market of the field of IT on the territory of EAEU member states has been analyzed, and so has been labor and other legislation of member states regulating the labor of remote workers and the academic literature and papers published in the periodicals. The system analysis and comprehensive review of sources and comparative legal studies have become the main methods of research. As a result, legal and organizational restrictions preventing efficient application of remote work of IT specialists typical for some or even all EAEU member states have been identified. Also, there have been suggested some ways to overcome the identified restrictions that can be implemented by adopting new legal provisions or by amending the existing ones.
Doença do refluxo gastroesofágico: repercussões clínicas e abordagem na RAS do munícipio de João Pessoa-PB
Authors: Da Nóbrega Leyla Fonseca , Santos Beatriz de Sousa , De Paiva Rafaela Fernandes Miranda , Ramalho Eduarda de Morais , Barros Cecília Nicodemos Martins , Crispim Gabriella Andréa de Freitas , De Arruda Isabela Tatiana Sales
Published: April 2023

Diz-se portador da Doença do Refluxo Gastroesofágico (DRGE) o paciente que apresenta sintomas e sinais clínicos compatíveis com o retorno não-fisiológico do conteúdo gastroduodenal para as partes superiores do tubo digestório. Trata-se de uma doença com natureza multifatorial, cuja principal causa é a ineficiência da barreira antirrefluxo que existe entre o esôfago e o estômago. Sua fisiopatologia é diversa em razão da multiplicidade de sintomas que podem ser desenvolvidos, entretanto conta com uma gama de exames laboratoriais e de imagem para que seja realizado um diagnóstico preciso, assim como opções de tratamentos comportamentais, farmacológicos e cirúrgicos que possibilitam uma grande melhoria na qualidade de vida do indivíduo. Com taxa de incidência relevante na população brasileira, a DRGE representa uma das queixas mais comuns nos consultórios médicos particulares e públicos e, por isso, achou-se por bem trazer ênfase à trajetória de um paciente acometido pela enfermidade na Rede de Atenção à Saúde. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar as repercussões clínicas da DRGE e explicar seus mecanismos fisiopatológicos, bem como apresentar meios de diagnóstico, tratamento e abordagem da enfermidade no Sistema Único de Saúde desde a atenção básica. Metodologicamente, trata-se de relato de experiência através de uma revisão bibliográfica com pesquisa realizada nos bancos de dados Scielo, BVS e Pubmed a partir das palavras-chave “refluxo gastroesofágico”, “diagnóstico”, “terapêutica”, “sistema único de saúde”, “gastroesophageal reflux disease”, além de pesquisas realizadas em revistas científicas e livros. Foram excluídos estudos publicados em outras línguas além de português e inglês, e estudos que não abordaram especificamente a temática. Foram incluídos artigos científicos publicados entre os anos de 2006 a 2020 que versam exclusivamente sobre os aspectos clínicos da DRGE. Os resultados apontam para uma grande relevância social da doença, com repercussão não apenas física, mas psicológicas para o paciente afetando, inclusive, sua capacidade laboral. Conclui-se por determinar a importância de conhecer a fundo nuances e formas de tratar a DRGE para a vivência prática da medicina.
Investigation of vaccinia virus in bovines and buffaloes from the Marajó region, Brazil: standardization of a diagnostic test
Authors: De Melo Taynah Cohen , Siqueira Jones Anderson Monteiro , Guerra Sylvia de Fátima dos Santos , Moraes Adriana Freitas , Casseb Lívia Medeiros Neves , Farias Luana da Silva Soares , Cruz Ana Cecilia Ribeiro , Wanzeller Ana Lucia Monteiro
Published: April 2023

The genus Orthopoxvirus (OPXV), belongs to the family Poxviridae and has 12 species, including Vaccinia virus (VACV) and Smallpox virus (VARV). Clinically, lesions in cattle are mostly seen on the teats and udders of lactating cows, which appear as bloody sores. The course of infection to complete healing takes two to four weeks. In humans, infections are currently occupational zoonoses. Little is still known about the ecoepidemiology of these viral agents, requiring further studies to seek alternatives for infection prevention and control. We sought to evaluate the epidemiology of VACV in asymptomatic buffaloes and cattle from farms on Marajó region, Brazil. Serum samples of 247 animals were tested collected in 2009. Viral DNA was extracted using commercial kits and detection was performed by the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), targeting the growth factor gene of Vaccinia (VGF), followed by Nested PCR. Samples were undetectable to VACV by the methods used in the animals studied, requiring continuous epidemiological surveillance in the region, especially considering previous reports of outbreaks involving poxviruses in the country.