bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction with Elevated Filling Pressures Is Associated with Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Bashir Zubair , Shu Liqi , Guo Yuqian , Chen Edward W. , Wang Shuyuan , Goldstein Eric D. , Rana Maheen , Kala Narendra , Dai Xing , Mandel Daniel , Yaghi Shadi , Has Phinnara , Xie Mingxing , Wang Tao , Simmons James , Song Christopher , Haines Philip
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) and elevated left ventricular filling pressure (LVFP) are strong predictors of clinical outcomes across various populations. However, their diagnostic utility in embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) remains unclear. We hypothesized that LVDD with elevated LVFP (based on echocardiography) was more likely to be prevalent in ESUS compared to non-cardioembolic stroke (NCE) and to be associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) on follow-up monitoring. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective study that included adult patients with a diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke between January 2016 and June 2017. LV function was assessed by inpatient transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), and stroke etiology was adjudicated by the neurologist per the consensus criteria. Patients with cardioembolic stroke and those with indeterminate diastolic function on TTE were excluded. Baseline patient characteristics and clinical variables were compared among patients with and without LVDD and elevated LVFP. Multivariable regression models were used to assess the associations between diastolic dysfunction, ESUS, and AF detection in ESUS patients. Results: We identified 509 patients with ESUS and NCE stroke who had reported diastolic function. The mean age was 64.19 years, 45.19% were female, and 146 had LVDD with available LVFP data. LVDD was not associated with ESUS (adjusted OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 0.90–2.27, p = 0.130) or atrial fibrillation (AF) detection on cardiac monitoring (adjusted OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 0.75–4.72, p = 0.179). However, LVDD with elevated LVFP was borderline associated with ESUS (adjusted OR: 2.17, 95% CI: 0.99–4.77, p = 0.054) and significantly associated with AF detection (adjusted OR: 3.59, 95% CI: 1.07–12.06, p = 0.038). Conclusions: Our data suggest that LVDD with elevated LVFP is borderline associated with ESUS and significantly associated with AF detection on follow-up cardiac monitoring. Therefore, the presence of LVDD with an increased probability of elevated LVFP may help identify a subset of stroke patients more likely to have ESUS, potentially due to atrial cardiopathy with underlying occult AF. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of anticoagulation in patients with ESUS and LVDD with elevated LVFP.
Seasonal Rise in the Contents of Microcystin-LR and Odorous Substances Due to Cyanobacterial Blooms in a Drinking Water Reservoir Supplying Xinyang City, China
Authors: Zhao Wei , Liu Yang , Li Hua , Ma Junguo , Li Xiaoyu
Published: October 2024

Cyanobacterial blooms have become a serious water pollution problem in many parts of the world, and the monitoring and study of the impacts of biotoxins on human health are of vital importance. In this study, the contents of microcystin-LR, 2-methylisoborneol, and geosmin were measured in water and sediment samples from Nanwan Reservoir, China, by means of bimonthly sampling between February and December 2023. The physicochemical and hydrochemical factors and phytoplankton dynamics in the reservoir were also investigated. The results showed that the overall mean concentration of microcystin-LR (0.729 μg/L) in summer approached the guiding standard (1 μg/L) set by the WHO for drinking water. Furthermore, the content of 2-methylisoborneol (143.5 ng/L) was 14 times higher than the national standard (10 ng/L). The results of laboratory cultures showed that lower light levels and medium temperatures were suitable for the growth of Microcystis and Planktothricoides but higher temperatures promoted the synthesis and release of microcystin-LR and 2-methylisoborneol. In addition, the results of co-cultures showed that the growth of Planktothricoides was inhibited by Microcystis. Our results suggest that cyanobacterial bloom and the presence of the metabolites 2-methylisoborneol and microcystin-LR can decrease the drinking water quality of Nanwan Reservoir.
Outcomes of Simultaneous Liver–Kidney Transplant Recipients According to Pre-Transplant Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) in the United States
Authors: Meier Tristan , Schmidt Kathryn , Cole Kristin , Olson Jody C. , Taner Timucin , Simonetto Douglas A. , Riad Samy
Published: October 2024

Background: Previous data suggested that the outcomes for liver-alone transplant recipients following transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) insertion were comparable to those without TIPS. This study investigates the association between TIPS and outcomes among simultaneous liver–kidney (SLK) recipients in the United States. Methods: Utilizing the Scientific Registry for Transplant Recipients (SRTR) standard analysis file from 2003 to 2022, we examined 9717 adult SLK recipients, among whom 858 had undergone TIPS before transplantation. Kaplan–Meier curves were generated to assess recipient and death-censored liver and kidney graft survival. Mixed-effects Cox proportional hazard models were employed to analyze the association between TIPS and the outcomes of interest, where the transplant center was treated as a random effect. The models were adjusted for recipient age, sex, MELD score, diabetes, duration of listing, induction, steroid maintenance, hepatitis C status, donor age, donor sex, cold ischemia time, local vs. shipped organs, and allocation era. Results: Overall, the two groups were comparable, with minor differences. Notably, the median liver waiting time was significantly longer in the TIPS group compared to the non-TIPS group (4.1 vs. 2 months, p < 0.001). One-year rejection rates for liver and kidney allografts did not differ significantly between groups. Univariable Cox regression analyses demonstrated no association between TIPS and worse outcomes for recipient, liver, and kidney survival (p = 0.65, p = 0.22, and p = 0.54, respectively). TIPS did not emerge as a predictor of recipient or death-censored liver or kidney graft survival in multivariable models. Conclusion: In this extensive national cohort of SLK transplant recipients, pre-transplant TIPS was not linked to adverse outcomes for recipients or their allografts.
Early Changes in Health-Related Quality of Life as a Biomarker of Survival in African Patients with HIV-Associated Kaposi Sarcoma
Authors: Shaik Fahmida , Uldrick Thomas S. , Mazinu Mikateko , Gwebushe Nomonde , Mosam Anisa
Published: October 2024

Sub-Saharan Africa bears the largest public health burden of Kaposi sarcoma (KS), a leading cause of cancer mortality. Quality of life (QOL) assessments in cancer patients can provide information on prognosis beyond traditional biomarkers or biological measures. The prognostic value of QOL measures in patients with HIV-KS was evaluated. Prognostic associations of baseline QOL scores (by quartiles or thresholds for clinical importance) and changes in QOL scores (using minimum important difference) over the first 3 months of therapy were evaluated in 112 participants with HIV-KS randomised to receive ART, with or without chemotherapy. Cox’s regression analysis assessed the prognostic contribution of QOL scores from the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Survival curves were generated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Baseline QOL scores did not predict overall survival. The change in the 3-month QOL scores for the global health scale, fatigue, and pain domains was prognostic; the hazard ratios were 3.88 (95% CI 1.32–11.38, p = 0.01), 3.72 (95% CI 1.61–8.62, p = 0.00) and 5.96 (95% CI 2.46–14.43, p = 0.00), respectively. QOL assessments can provide useful prognostic information in patients with HIV-KS. Patients lacking meaningful improvement early into treatment represent a population at high risk of death.
Neighborhood Effects on Acute Pediatric Asthma: Race, Greenspace, and PM2.5
Authors: Wesley Elizabeth J. , Brunsell Nathaniel A. , Rahn David R. , Saint Onge Jarron M. , Kane Natalie J. , Kennedy Kevin F.
Published: October 2024

Urbanization produces spatially variable landscapes where climatic, environmental, and social systems interact in complex ways that affect public health. Environmental exposure along with the associated health risks are unevenly distributed and communities of color are often disproportionately affected by poor health outcomes. Acute pediatric asthma is the most common chronic condition of childhood in developed nations and is especially prevalent in minority and low-income children. In this study, we analyze the spatial variability of neighborhood-level acute pediatric asthma emergency department (ED) visits across the Kansas City Metro Area. Using Bayesian negative binomial regression, we describe the relationships and interactions between race, low income, fractional vegetation, and PM2.5. We find significant disparities in acute pediatric asthma incidence in census tracts with different levels of poverty and percentages of non-White populations, even after accounting for neighborhood economic position. We also find that higher PM2.5 concentrations are associated with increased asthma ED visits and that a high percentage of vegetative cover reduces this effect in high-pollution neighborhoods. The magnitude of this protective effect is stronger in neighborhoods with a high proportion of non-White residents. These results suggest that investing in greenspace infrastructure may reduce the deleterious effects of PM2.5 and provide health benefits, especially in neighborhoods of color.
Susceptibility of HPV-18 Cancer Cells to HIV Protease Inhibitors
Authors: Makgoo Lilian , Mosebi Salerwe , Mbita Zukile
Published: October 2024

Cervical cancer cases continue to rise despite all the advanced screening and preventative measures put in place, which include human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. These soaring numbers can be attributed to the lack of effective anticancer drugs against cervical cancer; thus, repurposing the human immunodeficiency virus protease inhibitors is an attractive innovation. Therefore, this work was aimed at evaluating the potential anticancer activities of HIV-PIs against cervical cancer cells. The MTT viability assay was used to evaluate the effect of HIV protease inhibitors on the viability of cervical cancer cells (HeLa) and non-cancerous cells (HEK-293). Further confirmation of the MTT assay was performed by confirming the IC50s of these HIV protease inhibitors on cervical cancer cells and non-cancerous cells using the Muse™ Count and Viability assay. To confirm the mode of death induced by HIV protease inhibitors in the HPV-associated cervical cancer cell line, apoptosis was performed using Annexin V assay. In addition, the Muse™ Cell Cycle assay was used to check whether the HIV protease inhibitors promote or halt cell cycle progression in cervical cancer cells. HIV protease inhibitors did not affect the viability of non-cancerous cells (HEK-293), but they decreased the viability of HeLa cervical cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. HIV protease inhibitors induced apoptosis in HPV-related cervical cancer cells. Furthermore, they also induced cell cycle arrest, thus halting cell cycle progression. Therefore, the use of HIV drugs, particularly HIV-1 protease inhibitors, as potential cancer therapeutics represents a promising strategy. This is supported by our study demonstrating their anticancer properties, notably in HPV-associated cervical cancer cell line.
Camelpox Virus in Western Kazakhstan: Assessment of the Role of Local Fauna as Reservoirs of Infection
Authors: Bulatov Yerbol , Turyskeldy Sholpan , Abitayev Ruslan , Usembai Abdurakhman , Sametova Zhanna , Kondybayeva Zhanat , Kurmasheva Alina , Mazbayeva Dana , Kyrgyzbayeva Asselya , Shorayeva Kamshat , Amanova Zhanat , Toktyrova Dariya
Published: October 2024

This article investigates the role of local fauna in Western Kazakhstan as potential reservoirs of the camelpox virus (CMLV). The study emphasizes analyzing possible sources and transmission pathways of the virus using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and serological methods, including virus neutralization tests and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Samples were collected from both young and adult camels, as well as rodents, ticks and blood-sucking insects in the Mangystau and Atyrau regions. The PCR results revealed the absence of viral DNA in rodents, ticks and blood-sucking insects; also, the ELISA test did not detect specific antibodies in rodents. These findings suggest that these groups of fauna likely do not play a significant role in the maintenance and spread of CMLV. Consequently, the primary sources of transmission are likely other factors, potentially including the camels themselves. The study’s results indicate the need to reassess current hypotheses regarding infection reservoirs and to explore alternative sources to enhance strategies for the control and prevention of the camelpox virus.
Comment on Fust et al. The Potential Economic Impact of the Updated COVID-19 mRNA Fall 2023 Vaccines in Japan. Vaccines 2024, 12, 434
Authors: Volkman Hannah R. , Nguyen Jennifer L. , Mustapha Mustapha M. , Jodar Luis , McLaughlin John M.
Published: October 2024

We noted three key inconsistencies in the Moderna-funded cost-effectiveness analysis by Fust et al [...]
Reply to Volkman et al. Comment on “Fust et al. The Potential Economic Impact of the Updated COVID-19 mRNA Fall 2023 Vaccines in Japan. Vaccines 2024, 12, 434”
Authors: Kohli Michele , Joshi Keya , Beck Ekkehard , Hagiwara Yuriko , Van de Velde Nicolas , Igarashi Ataru
Published: October 2024

In their comment [...]
Klebsiella pneumoniae Lipopolysaccharide as a Vaccine Target and the Role of Antibodies in Protection from Disease
Authors: Miller Jernelle C. , Cross Alan S. , Tennant Sharon M. , Baliban Scott M.
Published: October 2024

Klebsiella pneumoniae is well recognized as a serious cause of infection in healthcare-associated settings and immunocompromised individuals; however, accumulating evidence from resource-limited nations documents an alarming rise in community-acquired K. pneumoniae infections, manifesting as bacteremia and pneumonia as well as neonatal sepsis. The emergence of hypervirulent and antibiotic-resistant K. pneumoniae strains threatens treatment options for clinicians. Effective vaccination strategies could represent a viable alternative that would both preempt the need for antibiotics to treat K. pneumoniae infections and reduce the burden of K. pneumoniae disease globally. There are currently no approved K. pneumoniae vaccines. We review the evidence for K. pneumoniae lipopolysaccharide (LPS) as a vaccine and immunotherapeutic target and discuss the role of antibodies specific for the core or O-antigen determinants within LPS in protection against Klebsiella spp. disease. We expand on the known role of the Klebsiella spp. capsule and O-antigen modifications in antibody surface accessibility to LPS as well as the in vitro and in vivo effector functions reported for LPS-specific antibodies. We summarize key hypotheses stemming from these studies, review the role of humoral immunity against K. pneumoniae O-antigen for protection, and identify areas requiring further research.
Overview of Recombinant Tick Vaccines and Perspectives on the Use of Plant-Made Vaccines to Control Ticks of Veterinary Importance
Authors: Trujillo Edgar , Ramos-Vega Abel , Monreal-Escalante Elizabeth , Almazán Consuelo , Angulo Carlos
Published: October 2024

Ticks are obligate hematophagous ectoparasites that affect animals, and some of them transmit a wide range of pathogens including viruses, bacteria, and protozoa to both animals and humans. Several vaccines have shown immunogenicity and protective efficacy against ticks in animal models and definitive hosts. After several decades on anti-tick vaccine research, only a commercial vaccine based on a recombinant antigen is currently available. In this context, plants offer three decades of research and development on recombinant vaccine production to immunize hosts and as a delivery vehicle platform. Despite the experimental advances in plant-made vaccines to control several parasitosis and infectious diseases, no vaccine prototype has been developed against ticks. This review examines a panorama of ticks of veterinary importance, recombinant vaccine experimental developments, plant-made vaccine platforms, and perspectives on using this technology as well as the opportunities and limitations in the field of tick vaccine research.
Mixed Th1/Th2/Th17 Responses Induced by Plant Oil Adjuvant-Based B. bronchiseptica Vaccine in Mice, with Mechanisms Unraveled by RNA-Seq, 16S rRNA and Metabolomics
Authors: Cui Xuemei , Xiang Qiuju , Huang Yee , Ji Quanan , Hu Zizhe , Shi Tuanyuan , Bao Guolian , Liu Yan
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The current Bordetella bronchiseptica (Bb) vaccine, when adjuvanted with alum, does not elicit adequate robust cellular immunity or effective antibody defense against Bb attacks. Unfortunately, antibiotic treatment generally represents an ineffective strategy due to the development of resistance against a broad range of antibiotics. Methods: The present study was designed to investigate the immune response, protective capabilities and underlying mechanisms of a plant oil-based adjuvant E515 formulated with inactivated Bb antigen as a potential vaccine candidate against Bordetella bronchiseptica. Results: Immunization studies revealed that a combination of SO, VE and GS (E515) exhibited a good synergistic adjuvant effect. The E515 adjuvanted Bb vaccine was proven to be highly efficacious and induced a mixed Th1/Th2/Th17 immune response in mice, leading to a significant increase in Bb-specific IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a antibodies, proliferative lymphocyte responses and cytokine levels (by lymphocytes and serum) and effectively induced responses by CD4+ TE, TM cells and B cells. The E515 adjuvant significantly enhanced the immune protection provided by the Bb vaccine in a mice model, as indicated by a reduced bacterial burden in the lungs. Multi-omics sequencing analysis revealed that E515 functions as an adjuvant by modulating critical pathways, including cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, the IL-17 signaling pathway and the chemokine signaling pathway. This modulation also included interactions with beneficial species of bacteria including Alistipes, Odoribacter and Colidextribacter, as well as energy and lipid-related metabolites, thus highlighting its role as an immunomodulatory agent. Conclusion: Collectively, our results demonstrate the huge potential of E515-Bb vaccine candidates, thus highlighting the vegetable oil original adjuvant E515 as a promising agent for the development of new veterinary vaccines.
Occurrence of Adenovirus in Fecal Samples of Wild Felids (Panthera onca and Leopardus pardalis) from Brazil: Predators as Dispersing Agents?
Authors: Machado Ygor , Rizotto Laís Santos , Entringer Jr. Hilton , Ferreira Helena Lage , Rossi Gabriel Augusto Marques , Srbek-Araujo Ana Carolina
Published: October 2024

Wild felids are vital to maintaining the ecological balance in natural environments as they regulate prey populations at different levels of the food chain. Changes in the dynamics of predator populations can impact the entire biodiversity of an ecosystem. There are few reports of Adenovirus infections in these animals, and little is known about their epidemiology. Therefore, a deeper understanding of these viruses within a One Health framework is essential, given their importance to animal, human, and environmental health. This study aimed to detect Adenovirus DNA in fecal samples of wild felids from a remnant of the Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil, renowned for its high biodiversity. A total of 43 fecal samples, 11 from jaguar (Panthera onca) and 32 from ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), were collected. The samples were subjected to viral nucleic acid extraction and genetic material amplification through PCR, followed by nucleotide sequencing. All phylogenetic analyses were based on the amino acid sequences of the DNA polymerase and IV2a genes. Adenovirus DNA was detected in the feces of both species, with two samples of each feline testing positive. This study reports, for the first time, the occurrence of Adenovirus associated with feces of Panthera onca and Leopardus pardalis. All detected sequences were grouped within the Mastadenovirus genus. Based solely on phylogenetic distance criteria, the identified sequences could be classified as Mastadenovirus bosprimum and Mastadenovirus from the vampire bat Desmodus rotundus. We hypothesize that Adenoviruses were associated with the prey consumed, which may allow the felines to act as eventual viral dispersing agents in the environment, in addition to the risk of being infected. This study provides new information on the association of Adenoviruses with wild felids and their prey, and offers important insights into the ecological dynamics of these viruses in natural environments. It suggests that wild felines may play a crucial role in viral surveillance programs.
Effect of Using Prickly Pear Seed Cake (Opuntia ficus indica L.) on Growth Performance, Digestibility, Physiological and Histometric Parameters in Rabbits
Authors: Benali Nadia , Belabbas Rafik , Sais Mounira , AinBaziz Hacina , Djellout Baya , Ettouahria Fatima Nouara , Oulebsir Nadira , Brecchia Gabriele , Quattrone Alda , Curone Giulio , Menchetti Laura
Published: October 2024

Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus indica L.) could be used in rabbit nutrition in compliance with circular economy principles, global warming issues, and reduction of production costs. This study aims to evaluate the effects of dietary incorporation of prickly pear seed cake (PPSC) on growth, physiological, and histometric parameters in rabbits. A total of 105 rabbits were divided into three experimental groups (n = 35) and fed different diets: a commercial feed (C group), the same feed with alfalfa replaced by PPSC at 10% (10PP group), and at 20% (20PP group). They were group-housed in cages with 5 animals per cage from weaning until slaughtering. While body weights and weight gains were similar in all groups, the coefficients of nutrient digestibility of dry matter, fibers, and ashes, as well as the characteristics of intestinal villi, were improved in the 10PP group compared to the others (p < 0.05). The 20PP group showed a reduction in perirenal and interscapular fat (p < 0.05), as well as lower plasma concentrations of triglycerides and cholesterol compared to the C group (p < 0.001). In conclusion, PPSC can be incorporated into the diets of growing rabbits up to 20% as a partial substitute for alfalfa without the impairment of growth performance. Additionally, the inclusion of PPSC enhanced nutrient digestibility and increased the intestinal absorption surface area.
Biodegradation of Cyanide Using Soda Lake-Derived Alkaliphilic Microbial Consortia
Authors: Belay Getnet , Suarez Carolina , Paul Catherin J. , Simachew Addis
Published: October 2024

Biological treatment processes at low or neutral pH are ineffective for gold mine wastewater treatment. The aim of this study was to develop a new cyanide-rich gold mine wastewater treatment system using alkaliphilic microbial consortia from the Ethiopian Rift Valley soda lake, Lake Chitu. The treatment setup incorporates aerobic and anoxic reactors connected in series and operated for about 200 treatment days. Simulated gold mine wastewater was formulated in the laboratory. Colorimetry was used to measure residual cyanide and reactive nitrogen molecules derived from cyanide biodegradation. Flocks and biofilms developed in the reactors during the acclimatization process. Using sodium cyanide at 200 mg/L as an initial concentration, the consortia degraded to 99.74 ± 0.08% of cyanide, with no significant variation (p > 0.05) occurring when the dose was increased to 800 mg/L. However, changes were observed (p < 0.05) at 1000 mg/L. Acetate was the preferred carbon source for the consortia. The established consortia effectively degraded cyanide to levels below the permissible discharge limit set by the International Cyanide Management Institute (ICMI). This study provides insights into the effectiveness of alkaliphilic microbial consortia derived from soda lakes for treating cyanide-polluted wastewater.
A Dynamic Game Model for Emergency Resource Managers and Compound Disasters Induced by Heavy Rainstorms
Authors: Wu Yi , Tan Xuezhi , Mo Haoyuan , Li Xudong , Zhang Yin , Yang Fang , Song Lixiang , He Yong , Chen Xiaohong
Published: October 2024

Under the impact of global climate change and human activities, the occurrence of compound disasters such as cascading landslides and flash floods caused by heavy rainfall is increasing. In response to these compound disaster events, it is important to simultaneously transport emergency resources from multiple emergency rescue points to the disaster sites to promptly control the cascading development of disasters and reduce the areas affected by the disasters and associated adverse impacts. This study proposes a dynamic game model for emergency resources dispatch to comprehensively consider the evolution of the compound disaster states and the timely dispatch of emergency resources from the rescue points to the disaster site. The dynamic game model is exemplarily applied to the emergency resource dispatch for a rainstorm-induced compound disaster that occurs in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Starting with the analysis of the characteristics of emergency resource management and the attributes of a cascading of heavy rainstorms, landslides, and flash floods, the game model simulates the dynamic game process between the “disaster state” and the “emergency resource manager” in the rescue operations. A two-stage dynamic game model can support decision-making with the objectives of minimal time cost and sufficient resource dispatch for the disaster sites. Game results show that the united emergency resource dispatch in the three GBA metropolitan areas can efficiently respond to compound disasters that occur within the GBA metropolitan area. The dynamic game model could be extended for compound disaster emergency responses with more complicated compound effects and resource constraints.
Influence of Vertical Force on Shields’ Curve and Its Extension in Rapidly Varied Flow
Authors: Riaz Muhammad Zain Bin , Iqbal Umair , Zain Huda , Yang Shu-Qing , Sivakumar Muttucumaru , Ji Rong , Anjum Muhammad Naveed
Published: October 2024

Sediment transport is a geophysical phenomenon characterized by the displacement of sediment particles in both the horizontal and vertical directions due to various forces. Most of the sediment transport equations currently used include only parameters related to the horizontal direction. This study measured both instantaneous longitudinal and vertical parameters, i.e., velocities and forces, and found that the magnitude and direction of the vertical force play an important role in sediment incipient motion. An innovative experimental system was developed to investigate the effect of vertical force on incipient motion in rapidly varying flows. A quadrant analysis of the instantaneous measured forces on the critical shear stress was performed. The research revealed that upward positive vertical forces enhance particle mobility, whereas downward negative vertical forces increase particle stability. Novel equations have been developed to represent the influence of vertical forces on sediment transport. A comprehensive critical Shields stress for sediment transport was proposed, extending the Classic Shields diagram to encompass the incipient motion in highly unsteady flows.
Exploring Seasonal Changes in Coastal Water Quality: Multivariate Analysis in Odisha and West Bengal Coast of India
Authors: Dixit Pravat Ranjan , Akhtar Muhammad Saeed , Thakur Rakesh Ranjan , Chattopadhyay Partha , Kar Biswabandita , Bera Dillip Kumar , Chand Sasmita , Shahid Muhammad Kashif
Published: October 2024

Marine pollution poses significant risks to both human and marine health. This investigation explores the limnological status of the Odisha and West Bengal coasts during the annual cruise program, focusing on the influence of riverine inputs on coastal marine waters. To assess this impact, physicochemical parameters such as pH, salinity, total suspended solids (TSS), dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and dissolved nutrients (NO2-N, NO3-N, NH4-N, PO4-P, SiO4-Si, total-N, and total-P) were analyzed from samples collected along 11 transects. Multivariate statistics and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied to the datasets, revealing four key factors that account for over 70.09% of the total variance in water quality parameters, specifically 25.01% for PC1, 21.94% for PC2, 13.13% for PC3, and 9.99% for PC4. The results indicate that the increase in nutrient and suspended solid concentrations in coastal waters primarily arises from weathering and riverine transport from natural sources, with nitrate sources linked to the decomposition of organic materials. Coastal Odisha was found to be rich in phosphorus-based nutrients, particularly from industrial effluents in Paradip and the Mahanadi, while ammonia levels were attributed to municipal waste in Puri. In contrast, the West Bengal coast exhibited higher levels of nitrogenous nutrients alongside elevated pH and DO values. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the seasonal dynamics and anthropogenic influences on coastal water quality in Odisha and West Bengal, highlighting the need for targeted conservation and management efforts.
Innovation Management: A Bibliometric Analysis of 50 Years of Research Using VOSviewer® and Scopus
Authors: Saiz-Alvarez José Manuel
Published: October 2024

Using the bibliometric software VOSviewer® version 1.6.20 and Scopus as a bibliographic database, this paper aims to investigate the research streams in terms of the co-occurrence network of authors, terms extracted from the title field, countries, keywords, and organizations researching on IM from publications between 1974 and 2024. Retrieved from Scopus and using science mapping bibliometric techniques with VOSviewer®, 4756 documents published on IM from 1974 to 2024 were analyzed, divided in three phases (1974–1995, 1996–2019, and 2020–2024), and limited to BMA (Business, Management, and Accounting), EEF (Economics, Econometrics, and Finance), and SOC (Social Sciences). The main findings are as follows: (a) there is a tendency for a minimal relationship between authors from different organizations and countries to collaborate in research on IM; (b) almost half (45.12%) of the publications on IM were published by authors from the European Union, which rises to 55.24% in Europe if the United Kingdom is included. These results are far ahead of those of the United States (13.4%), China (7.6%), the Russian Federation (3.6%), and Japan (2.3%). (c) While the first publications on IM deal with aspects related to product development, management, technology, R&D, and competition, there is a recent trend to link IM to sustainable development, open innovation, ecosystems, stakeholders’ engagement, and entrepreneurship.
Drinking Water Quality Management for Broiler Performance and Carcass Characteristics
Authors: Ebrahimi Naser Amir , Nobakht Ali , İnci Hakan , Palangi Valiollah , Suplata Marian , Lackner Maximilian
Published: October 2024

Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of water quality as determined by its physical, chemical, and biological composition collected from five distinct points in Maragheh, Iran, on the performance and carcass traits of Ross-308 commercial broilers (mix of male and female) during the grower (11–24 days) and finisher (25–42 days) periods. Materials and methods: A total of 240 broilers were involved in the study, divided into five treatments with four replicates and 12 birds per replicate. In this study, a randomized design was used. Water samples were collected from five different points, and broilers were provided with these water sources during the grower and finisher periods. Water samples for testing were prepared from the water wells of the meat poultry farms located in the northern, eastern, western, and southern lands, and the experimental farm, using hygienic and scientific methods. Performance parameters, including body weight, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and water intake, were measured. Results: During the grower period, no significant effects on performance and water intake were observed across the different water sources (p > 0.05). However, in the finisher period, significant differences were noted (p ≥ 0.05). The use of water from point A (control group) led to reduced water consumption, body weight, and increased FCR (p < 0.05). The northern water source exhibited the optimum FCR during the finisher period (p < 0.05). Throughout the entire experimental period, the water source significantly influenced broiler performance, with the northern water source (point B) corresponding with the highest weight gain and production index with the least feed intake (p < 0.05). Despite these variations, no significant changes were observed in the broilers’ carcass traits across different water sources (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusions: In conclusion, the study revealed that various drinking water sources, while not significantly impacting carcass quality traits, exerted notable effects on broilers’ performance. The northern water source emerged as particularly favorable, demonstrating superior weight gain and a production index with efficient feed utilization. These findings underscore the importance of water quality in poultry management, particularly during the finisher period, and highlight its potential influence on broiler performance.
Features of mineral metabolism in cholelithiasis
Authors:   FSBEI HE Bashkir State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Minasov T.B. , Yakupova E.R. ,   FSBEI HE Bashkir State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Grishina E.E. ,   FSBEI HE Bashkir State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Faizullin A.A. ,   State Budgetary Institution of the Republic of Belarus City Clinical Hospital No. 21, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, Russia, Nurlygayanov R.Z. ,   State Budgetary Institution of the Republic of Belarus City Clinical Hospital No. 21, Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, Russia, Yatsukova V.E. ,   FSBEI HE South Ural State Medical University, Matnurov D.I. ,   Municipal Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the Republic of Bashkortostan City Clinical Hospital No. 13, Ufa, Fatkullin I.Sh. ,   Municipal Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the Republic of Bashkortostan City Clinical Hospital No. 13, Ufa, Glazunov S.Yu. ,   Municipal Budgetary Healthcare Institution of the Republic of Bashkortostan City Clinical Hospital No. 13, Ufa, Mustaev U.R. ,   War Veterans Hospital, Ufa
Published: October 2024

The article presents modern data on the study of cholelithiasis. Information on the etiology and pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease has been selected. A clinical case is described. The results of the analysis of age and gender groups in cholelithiasis are presented, and the leading treatment tactics of the adult population in Ufa, Republic of Bashkortostan, are identified. It is shown that the tactics of administration is determined individually depending on the patient’s concomitant diseases and the course of the disease.
Superando a pandemia: o papel fundamental das lideranças nas comunidades quilombolas do Marajó
Authors: Otoni de Souza Luciana , Lopes Simonian Ligia Terezinha , Pahoona Corbin Hisakhana
Published: October 2024

Nesse artigo, apresentam-se os principais impactos sofridos por populações quilombolas das comunidades de Mangueiras e Salvá em função da pandemia da Covid-19. Houve uma participação das lideranças locais, a participação social e a do poder público. Dados foram coletas por meio de uma entrevista estruturada, que foi aplicada online. Dados qualitativos foram analisados com base na percepção dos entrevistados acerca da influência da Covid-19 sobre as comunidades. Resultados-chave indicam que a participação social é efetivada por meio de organizações sociais, de grupos criados pelas lideranças locais para o engajamento e divulgação da cultura e das origens quilombolas. Por um lado, a separação das forças locais e o isolamento social dificultam o fortalecimento participativo dessas comunidades. Por outro, o processo de conscientização está presente na busca da melhoria da qualidade de vida através da produção e do consumo sustentáveis.
المسؤولية الاجتماعية العطائية للشركات ودورها في العمل الخيري عند الموظفين: أدلة من الكويت
Authors: سلطان عبدالله جواد
Published: October 2024

تشارك عدد كبير من الشركات حول العالم في أنشطة اختيارية تهدف إلى تعزيز الرفاه الاجتماعي. ونتيجة لذلك، وجد الباحثون علاقة بين المسؤولية الاجتماعية للشركات (CSR) بشكل عام وتحسين الأداء المالي، وتصورات المستهلكين، وقيم ومواقف وسلوكيات الموظفين. ومع ذلك، هناك عدد قليل من المقالات التجريبية (إن وُجدت) التي تناولت التأثيرات المحتملة التي قد تملكها المكونات الاختيارية للمسؤولية الاجتماعية على تبرعات الموظفين. تشير نتائج استبيان عبر الإنترنت من 287 محترفًا في مجال الأعمال يعملون في الكويت إلى أن هوية الموظف مع الشركة ومواقف الموظفين تجاه التبرعات تعزز بشكل كامل العلاقة بين تصورات الموظفين للمسؤولية الاجتماعية الاختيارية ونوايا التبرع لدى الموظفين خارج بيئة العمل.
دور لجان المراجعة في الحد من ممارسات المحاسبة الإبداعية في الشركات المقيدة بالبورصة المصرية
Authors: سمره ياسر محمد
Published: October 2024

تسعى الدراسة إلى تقييم دور لجان المراجعة في الحد من ممارسات المحاسبة الإبداعية في الشركات المقيدة بالبورصة المصرية، مع تحديد أهم محددات جودة أداء لجنة المراجعة وعلاقتها بممارسات المحاسبة الإبداعية. ولتحقيق هدف البحث تم تصميم قائمة استقصاء وتوزيعها على الفئات الثلاث الممثلة لمجتمع الدراسة (معدي القوائم المالية - المراجعين الخارجيين - أعضاء لجنة المراجعة) التي تربطهم علاقة بالشركات المقيدة بالبورصة المصرية، وتوصلت نتائج الدراسة إلى وجود علاقة سالبة قوية بين اختصاصات لجنة المراجعة ومحددات جودة أدائها من ناحية، وممارسات المحاسبة الإبداعية من ناحية أخرى، مما يوضح أن التوسع في اختصاصات لجنة المراجعة والتركيز على محددات أدائها يؤدى إلى الحد من ممارسات المحاسبة الإبداعية.
A New Name for a Chinese Primula (Primulaceae)
Authors: Idrees Muhammad , Shaw Julian M. H.
Published: October 2024

A new name, Primula sinobreviscapa Idrees & J. M. H. Shaw, is proposed for the species P. breviscapa Franch., described by Franchet in 1895 from China, as its name is a later homonym of P. breviscapa Clairv. (1811). A Delavay specimen is designated as lectotype. Notes on Delavay’s numbering system are included.
Swot analysis of factors causing air pollution and recommended control efforts in the city of Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Prasetyawati Naris Dyah , Tjiptowibisono Suranto , Pranoto Pranoto , Sunarto Sunarto
Published: October 2024

Background: Knowing the root causes of air pollution in urban areas will determine the next actions to take. Analyzing the impact caused by air pollution will make it easier to determine the control efforts to be carried out. Determining control objectives makes the efforts more targeted. Air pollution can be controlled through abiotic, biotic, and cultural factors. Methods: Primary data collection was carried out and used secondary data. This study aimed to find the causes of air pollution in urban areas using the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis method so that it can see what efforts are appropriate to do. Results: It was revealed that the government’s efforts to control air pollution have been carried out continuously and in multi-sectoral ways, but the socialization of the impact of air pollution has not been conveyed to the community continuously and has not been on target. Conclusion: Noise and dust are still the main problems affecting air quality in urban areas. Another problem is in human behavior as an affected and interested party. The potential for controlling air pollution can be carried out by combining the strengths and opportunities that are owned optimally and multi-sectorally.
Income inequality and environmental degradation in the provinces of Iran
Authors: Ansari Samani Habib , Rouzbahani Masumeh , Dalvandi Hadis , Sadeghi Reza
Published: October 2024

Background: Despite the detrimental environmental and distributional effects of economic activity in Iran, these effects are not uniform across provinces. Environmental degradation and income inequality are increasing in some provinces of Iran. This study aimed to determine the causal relationship between environmental degradation and income inequality in provinces. It investigates whether environmental degradation is a cause or consequence of income inequality. Methods: Data were collected from official statistical publications in Iran. Then, two simultaneous regression models were estimated to investigate the causal relationship between environmental degradation and income inequality. Finally, Granger causality tests were performed to verify the results. Results: The results show a one-way causality from income inequality to environmental degradation, and environmental degradation is not the cause of income inequality. While income inequality leads to environmental degradation, other factors are at play in causing income inequality. Income inequality, per capita gross domestic product (GDP), and industrial structure increase environmental degradation. Energy intensity, education, and environmental government budget reduce environmental degradation. Environmental degradation, education, and per capita GDP negatively impact income inequality, while the environmental protection budget and taxation worsen income inequality. Conclusion: To reduce environmental pollution and income inequality, policies should be adopted that aim to improve the level of education, increase per capita income, increase the budget for environmental protection, reduce polluting industrial structure, and reduce energy intensity. Also, attention should be paid to better management and improvement of the quality of life in different regions of the country to improve the compatibility of different parts of the society with the environment.
Assessment of pollution and ecological risk of heavy metals in the sediments of the western coast of Persian Gulf: A case study in Dayer port
Authors: Allami Hoda , Afzali Afsaneh , Mirzaei Rouhollah
Published: October 2024

Background: In recent years, the pollution of heavy metals in the beaches has been noticed due to the increase of human activities. This study aimed to evaluate heavy metal pollution, its ecological risk, and possible sources in the coastline of Dayer Port, Bushehr province. Methods: The sediment samples were collected from 8 stations with different uses in 0-5 and 5-20 cm depths. The samples were evaluated to measure the concentration of Pb, Cu, Ni, and Mn after acid digestion by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Subsequently, the ecological risk index was used to evaluate the environmental risk potential caused by heavy metal pollution. The statistical analysis was used to determine the source of pollutants and their relationship. Results: The average concentration of Mn, Ni, Cu, and Pb were 218.59, 10.44, 11.78, and 7.81 μg g-1 in surface sediments and 278.05, 15.79, 12.74, and 10. 75 μg g-1 in deep sediments, respectively. The results of evaluating the ecological risk index caused by heavy metal pollution in the coastal sediments of the studied area showed that the environmental risk is low (>150). The results of multivariate statistical analyses showed that the investigated metals are of natural and anthropogenic origin mainly natural sources. Conclusion: The presence of heavy metals in all collected sediment samples shows that heavy metals are common pollutants in the study area. As a result, regular monitoring of the area is important to control and reduce heavy metal pollution.
A detailed study of the physicochemical parameters of the solid waste dumping grounds adjoining densely populated areas: A case study in India
Authors: Samanta Tanushree , Jana Anup , Khanra Suman Kalyan , Mukhopadhyay Sagarika
Published: October 2024

Background: Industrialization and urbanization in developing countries are the major issues responsible for producing colossal amounts of waste (about 51.35 tons per day). Midnapore municipality as a class-I town (>100 000 population) puts in a large amount of solid waste without any treatment facility in its districts. Thus, disposal as well as treatment is an area of concern. Waste that comes from different sources could have some beneficial effects along with potentially hazardous side effects. So, finding out the issues is important. Methods: After selecting the study area, soil samples were collected from five different dumping sites. Different plant micronutrient and heavy metal content of soil samples have been done by spectrophotometric method and atomic absorption spectroscopic analysis. Soil pollution indices geoaccumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (Cf ), ecological risk index (Er ), pollution load index (PLI), and modified degree of contamination (MDC) were calculated by standard formulas. Results: This study shows the presence of a wide variety of elements that have bio-potential. This reveals that it can be used to promote soil fertility due to increases in parameters like soil nitrogen (0.165±0.047%), phosphorus (63.558±15.82 mg/kg), organic carbon (4.22±1.838%), potassium (0.308±0.078%), etc. Assessments of pollution indices showed moderate heavy metal contamination in the study areas. Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, the soil fertility parameters in the dumping ground are high and can be reused as organic manure; the only issue is a low to moderate level of heavy metal contamination.
The relationship between hot spots of air pollution and the incidence of gestational diabetes based on spatial analysis: A study on one of the most air-polluted metropolis of Iran
Authors: Jaafarzadeh Neamatollah , Nouhjah Sedigheh , Shahbazian Hajieh , Shenavar Bamshad
Published: October 2024

Background: Despite the serious impacts of air pollution on human health, few studies have focused on the adverse effects of air pollution on pregnancy outcomes based on the geographic information system (GIS) approach. Therefore, adopting the GIS approach, this study aimed to determine the extent to which of overlap of air pollution hotspots overlap with gestational diabetes density in Ahvaz, an airpolluted metropolis in Iran. Methods: Data from an ongoing population-based cohort study was used for gestational diabetes mapping. Three methods were used for air pollution assessment. The inverse distance weighting (IDW) technique was used for spatial interpolation. ArcGIS10.8 was used for preparing maps. Results: The lowest rate of gestational diabetes was estimated in District One (2.4%) while the highest rate was observed in Districts Six and Four (20.6% and 20.2%, respectively). As far as air pollution was concerned, 32.6% of mothers with gestational diabetes were residents in low-risk areas whereas 67.4% lived in high-risk areas. A higher density of gestational diabetes was estimated in high-risk air-polluted districts based on any method of air pollution assessment. Conclusion: The density of gestational diabetes incidence increased with residence in air-polluted areas. Residence in more polluted areas is a higher risk factor for developing gestational diabetes and its complications. Providing preventive services in these areas is a priority.