bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioaminergic Responses in an In Vitro System Studying Human Gut Microbiota–Kiwifruit Interactions
Authors: Parkar Shanthi , Jobsis Carel , Trower Tania , Cooney Janine , Hedderley Duncan , Bentley-Hewitt Kerry
Published: October 2020

Whole kiwifruit (‘Hayward’ and ‘Zesy002’) were examined for their bioaminergic potential after being subjected to in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and colonic fermentation. Controls included the prebiotic inulin and water, a carbohydrate-free vehicle. The dopamine precursor l-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) and the serotonin precursor 5-hydroxytryptophan were increased in the kiwifruit gastrointestinal digesta (‘Hayward’ > ‘Zesy002’) in comparison to the water digesta. Fermentation of the digesta with human fecal bacteria for 18 h modulated the concentrations of bioamine metabolites. The most notable were the significant increases in L-DOPA (‘Zesy002’ > ‘Hayward’) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) (‘Hayward’ > ‘Zesy002’). Kiwifruit increased Bifidobacterium spp. and Veillonellaceae (correlating with L-DOPA increase), and Lachnospira spp. (correlating with GABA). The digesta and fermenta were incubated with Caco-2 cells for 3 h followed by gene expression analysis. Effects were seen on genes related to serotonin synthesis/re-uptake/conversion to melatonin, gut tight junction, inflammation and circadian rhythm with different digesta and fermenta from the four treatments. These indicate potential effects of the substrates and the microbially generated organic acid and bioamine metabolites on intestinal functions that have physiological relevance. Further studies are required to confirm the potential bioaminergic effects of gut microbiota–kiwifruit interactions.
Evaluation of Yeast Strains for Pomegranate Alcoholic Beverage Production: Effect on Physicochemical Characteristics, Antioxidant Activity, and Aroma Compounds
Authors: Kokkinomagoulos Evangelos , Nikolaou Anastasios , Kourkoutas Yiannis , Kandylis Panagiotis
Published: October 2020

In the present study, three commercial yeasts (for wine, beer, and cider) were evaluated for the production of pomegranate alcoholic beverage (PAB) from a juice of Wonderful variety. The physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant activity, and aromatic profiles of PABs were investigated before and after fermentation, while the effect of yeast strain and fermentation temperature (15 and 25 °C) was also evaluated. The PABs contained ethanol in the ranges of 5.6–7.0% v/v, in combination with glycerol (2.65–6.05 g L−1), and low volatile acidity. Total flavonoid content, total phenolic content, free radical-scavenging activity, and total monomeric anthocyanin content appeared to decrease after fermentation, possibly due to hydrolysis, oxidation, and other reactions. In general, PABs retained 81–91% of free radical-scavenging activity, 29–41% of phenolics, 24–55% of flavonoids, and 66–75% of anthocyanins. The use of different yeast affected mainly flavonoids and anthocyanins, and yeast strain M02 resulted in the highest values after fermentation. In PABs, 30 different volatile compounds were identified, specifically 15 esters, 4 organic acids, 8 alcohols, and 3 terpenes. The principal component analysis showed that the fermentation temperature affected significantly volatile composition, whereas, among the yeasts, WB06 is the one that seems to differentiate. The findings of this study show that the selection of the appropriate yeast and fermentation temperature is very crucial and affects the characteristics of the final product.
Electrospun Fibres with Hyaluronic Acid-Chitosan Nanoparticles Produced by a Portable Device
Authors: Fuenteslópez Carla V. , Ye Hua
Published: October 2020

Electrospinning is a versatile technique to produce nano/microscale fibrous scaffolds for tissue engineering and drug delivery applications. This research aims to demonstrate that hyaluronic acid-chitosan (HA-CS) nanoparticles can be electrospun together with polycaprolactone (PCL) and gelatine (Ge) fibres using a portable device to create scaffolds for tissue repair. A range of polymer solutions of PCL-gelatine at different weight/volume concentrations and ratios were electrospun and characterised. Fibre–cell interaction (F11 cells) was evaluated based on cell viability and proliferation and, from here, a few polymer blends were electrospun into random or aligned fibre arrangements. HA-CS nanoparticles were synthesised, characterised, and used to functionalise electrospun fibres (8% w/v at 70 PCL:30 Ge), which were chosen based on cell viability. Different concentrations of HA-CS nanoparticles were tested to determine cytotoxicity. A single dosage (1 × 10−2 mg/mL) was associated with higher cell proliferation compared with the cell-only control. This nanoparticle concentration was embedded into the electrospun fibres as either surface modification or blend. Fibres with blended NPs delivered a higher cell viability than unmodified fibres, while NP-coated fibres resulted in a higher cell proliferation (72 h) than the NP-blended ones. These biocompatible scaffolds allow cell attachment, maintain fibre arrangement, promote directional growth and yield higher cell viability.
Carbon Nanotube Sheet-Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Chitranshi Megha , Pujari Anuptha , Ng Vianessa , Chen Daniel , Chauhan Devika , Hudepohl Ronald , Saleminik Motahareh , Kim Sung Yong , Kubley Ashley , Shanov Vesselin , Schulz Mark
Published: October 2020

Decades of extensive research have matured the development of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Still, the properties of macroscale assemblages, such as sheets of carbon nanotubes, are not good enough to satisfy many applications. This paper gives an overview of different approaches to synthesize CNTs and then focuses on the floating catalyst method to form CNT sheets. A method is also described in this paper to modify the properties of macroscale carbon nanotube sheets produced by the floating catalyst method. The CNT sheet is modified to form a carbon nanotube hybrid (CNTH) sheet by incorporating metal, ceramic, or other types of nanoparticles into the high-temperature synthesis process to improve and customize the properties of the traditional nanotube sheet. This paper also discusses manufacturing obstacles and the possible commercial applications of the CNT sheet and CNTH sheet. Manufacturing problems include the difficulty of injecting dry nanoparticles uniformly, increasing the output of the process to reduce cost, and safely handling the hydrogen gas generated in the process. Applications for CNT sheet include air and water filtering, energy storage applications, and compositing CNTH sheets to produce apparel with anti-microbial properties to protect the population from infectious diseases. The paper also provides an outlook towards large scale commercialization of CNT material.
An Investigation of the Practices of Australian Adults Experiencing Pain and Their Views of Australian Community Pharmacy Pain Management Services
Authors: Mishriky John , Stupans Ieva , Chan Vincent
Published: October 2020

Pain is a common and debilitating condition requiring appropriate assessment and management. The consequences of inadequate treatment of pain is well known; however, research investigating pain management practices and the benefits Australian community pharmacies offer in pain management are more limited. This study investigated the knowledge and practices of Australian adults experiencing pain, and their views of community pharmacy pain management services. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a pre-tested anonymous self-administered questionnaire. Participants were recruited from ten community pharmacies across metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. A total of 120 participants completed the questionnaire. Most reported that their pain interfered with their quality/functionality-of-life. Paracetamol was the pharmacological preference irrespective of pain severity experienced. Approximately 30% did not believe that visiting a community pharmacy is helpful in pain management, but many reported their pain management knowledge could be improved, yet more than 60% disagreed when asked whether they would rather visit a supermarket than their pharmacy to purchase analgesics. More than half believed that community pharmacies can and should offer more pain management services. This suggests that enhancing the involvement of community pharmacists can help bridge gaps in pain management knowledge, which may provide greater positive outcomes for patients experiencing pain symptoms.
Use of a Structured Method of Antimicrobial Stewardship at a City Hospital by Pharmacy Students
Authors: Ng Kimberly E. , Bradley Nicole
Published: October 2020

The objective of this study was to determine the utility of a structured method of antimicrobial stewardship by Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience students and assess student perceptions of the tool. Pharmacy students on rotation were trained to utilize a structured team antibiotic review form (TARF) as a tool to participate in antimicrobial stewardship. Students completed anonymous evaluations regarding their confidence in performing stewardship after completing their rotation, and preceptors quantified total student interventions. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics. The Fisher’s Exact Test was used to compare students’ confidence before and after using TARFs. Twenty-six students participated in antimicrobial stewardship using TARFs, resulting in 889 interventions. Nearly 96% of students reported that TARFs helped them evaluate patient antibiotics in a way that was easy to follow and that TARFs provided them with an organized and structured way to systematically evaluate antibiotics. All students felt that the TARFs increased their knowledge on how to evaluate antibiotics. Significantly more students were confident in participating in antimicrobial stewardship after using the TARF. TARF use allowed students to substantially contribute to stewardship, and provided them with a structured guide allowing for improved student knowledge and confidence.
The Natural-Artificial Distinction and the Technologization of Sport
Authors: Monasterio Astobiza Aníbal
Published: October 2020

The natural-artificial distinction is not only an abstract metaphysical question dedicated to classifying and differentiating between entities and phenomena that occur in nature from man-made objects. The distinction between the natural and the artificial is central to the philosophy of technology and an interesting heuristic to discuss important notions about the growing process of technologization in sport. For example, if one accepts the natural-artificial distinction, one is against any genetic intervention to improve sports performance because one would consider it unnatural. In this article, I present an argument against the natural-artificial distinction and defend the ethical permissibility of the technologization of sport.
The Return to Kalokagathia: Curating as Leverage in the Ongoing Dialogues between Aesthetics and Ethics
Authors: Milevska Suzana
Published: October 2020

This essay argues that curating brought back a kind of leverage that redressed the otherwise imbalanced relationship between aesthetics and ethics. Curating lends out to art its innocent and aspirational belief in such a balance because the ethical concerns in art theory and art criticism have long been toned down while form was prioritized over content. Ever since the curatorial profession created its own niche in the art world—started, for example, in the West, in the late 1960s with curators such as Siegelaub, Szeemann, or Lippard—curating began to mediate this relationship, thus helping to activate the catalyst potential of art without having to compromise its formal aspects. More specifically, this essay explores the ways in which theories and practices of curating brought back to mind the ancient Greek notion of kalokagathia, the intertwinement of aesthetics and ethics and, with it, other ethical responsibilities, principles, and values that art forgot to address while giving privilege to its formal aspects.
3D Computer-Aided Design Reconstructions and 3D Multi-Material Polymer Replica Printings of the First “Iron Hand” of Franconian Knight Gottfried (Götz) von Berlichingen (1480–1562): An Overview
Authors: Otte Andreas
Published: October 2020

Knight Götz von Berlichingen (1480–1562) lost his right hand distal to the wrist due to a cannon ball splinter injury in 1504 in the Landshut War of Succession at the age of 24. Early on, Götz commissioned a gunsmith to build the first “Iron Hand,” in which the artificial thumb and two finger blocks could be moved in their basic joints by a spring mechanism and released by a push button. Some years later, probably around 1530, a second “Iron Hand” was built, in which the fingers could be moved passively in all joints. In this review, the 3D computer-aided design (CAD) reconstructions and 3D multi-material polymer replica printings of the first “Iron hand“, which were developed in the last few years at Offenburg University, are presented. Even by today’s standards, the first “Iron Hand”—as could be shown in the replicas—demonstrates sophisticated mechanics and well thought-out functionality and still offers inspiration and food for discussion when it comes to the question of an artificial prosthetic replacement for a hand. It is also outlined how some of the ideas of this mechanical passive prosthesis can be translated into a modern motorized active prosthetic hand by using simple, commercially available electronic components.
Mechanical Properties of Laser-Sintered 3D-Printed Cobalt Chromium and Soft-Milled Cobalt Chromium
Authors: Barazanchi Abdullah , Li Kai , Al-Amleh Basil , Lyons Karl , Waddell J.
Published: October 2020

Purpose: To compare the mechanical properties and fracture behaviour of laser-sintered/3D-printed cobalt chromium (LS CoCr) with soft-milled cobalt chromium (SM CoCr) to assess their suitability for use in high-stress areas in the oral cavity. Material and Method: Two computer-aided manufacturing methods were used to fabricate dumbbell specimens in accordance with the ASTM standard E8. Specimens were fractured using tensile testing and elastic modulus, and proof stress and ultimate tensile strength were calculated. Fracture surfaces were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Plate specimens were also fabricated for the examination of hardness and elastic modulus using nanoindentation. Unpaired t-test was used to evaluate statistical significance. Results: LS CoCr specimens were found to have significantly higher ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and proof stress (PS) (p < 0.05) but not a significantly higher elastic modulus (p > 0.05). Examination of the dumbbell fracture surfaces showed uniform structure for the LS CoCr specimens whilst the SM CoCr specimens were perforated with porosities; neither showed an obvious point of fracture. Nanoindentation also showed that LS CoCr specimens possessed higher hardness compared with SM CoCr specimens. Conclusion: LS CoCr and SM CoCr specimens were both found to exhibit uniformly dense structure; although porosities were noted in the SM CoCr specimens. LS CoCr specimens were found to have superior tensile properties, likely due to lack of porosities, however both had mean values higher than those reported in the literature for cast CoCr. Uniformity of structure and high tensile strength indicates that LS CoCr and SM CoCr fabricated alloys are suitable for long-span metallic frameworks for use in the field of prosthodontics.
Covid-19 Pandemic: The Use of Protective Visor in the Dentistry Degree Course of Dental Prosthetics Technology of the University of Messina
Authors: Cicciù Marco , Cervino Gabriele , Baldari Sergio
Published: October 2020

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) [...]
Nephroprotective Effect of the Herbal Composition BNO 2103 in Rats with Renal Failure
Authors: Shebeko Sergii K. , Chernykh Vladyslava V. , Zupanets Kateryna O.
Published: October 2020

(1) Background: this research aims at studying the nephroprotective properties of BNO 2103 in a model of chromate-induced renal failure in rats and at proving the possibility of using BNO 2103 in clinical practice for the complex treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). (2) Methods: fifty rats divided into five groups were studied. The drugs BNO 2103, Prednisolone and Lespephril were administered within 20 days. The excretory function and the functional state of kidneys, blood biochemical parameters and indicators of nitrogen metabolism were determined. (3) Results: under the influence of BNO 2103, there was a significant improvement in renal excretory function, in nitrogen metabolism and blood biochemical parameters compared with the control pathology group. BNO 2103 also outperformed the comparators in most indicators. (4) Conclusions: BNO 2103 has demonstrated nephroprotective, hypoazotemic and diuretic effects; and can be used to implement to the combined therapy of CKD.
“We Have Advised Sex Workers to Simply Choose Other Options”—The Response of Adult Service Websites to COVID-19
Authors: Brouwers Lilith , Herrmann Tess
Published: October 2020

In-person sex work is one of the industries most directly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to connect with clients, most independent sex workers use adult service websites (ASWs), whose services range from simple advertising websites to platforms with both direct and indirect governance of workers. Although ASWs do not employ sex workers, their response to the pandemic has a large impact on sex workers’ financial and physical wellbeing. This effect is even stronger among migrant workers, who are less likely to qualify for, or be aware they qualify for, government support. This study reviews the response to COVID-19 of 45 of the leading ASWs in Britain, and triangulates the data with seven sex worker-led organisations. It shows a large variation in the responses of ASWs: the majority had no public response to the pandemic at all, a minority took intentional steps to support workers or donated to hardship funds for sex workers, and at least one ASW reduced their safety features during the pandemic. These findings illustrate that while most ASWs do not acknowledge the influence they have over the working practices of their service users and the shift of economic risk to them, some recognised the potential that their platforms have to support sex workers during crises.
A One Health Approach for Guinea Worm Disease Control: Scope and Opportunities
Authors: Boyce Matthew R. , Carlin Ellen P. , Schermerhorn Jordan , Standley Claire J.
Published: October 2020

Guinea worm disease (GWD) is a neglected tropical disease that was targeted for eradication several decades ago because of its limited geographical distribution, predictable seasonality, straightforward diagnosis, and exclusive infection of humans. However, a growing body of evidence challenges this last attribute and suggests that GWD can affect both humans and animal populations. The One Health approach emphasizes the relatedness of human, animal, and environmental health. We reviewed epidemiological evidence that could support the utility of a One Health approach for GWD control in the six countries that have reported human GWD cases since 2015—Angola, Cameroon, Chad, Ethiopia, Mali, and South Sudan. Human GWD cases have dramatically declined, but recent years have seen a gradual increase in human case counts, cases in new geographies, and a rapidly growing number of animal infections. Taken together, these suggest a need for an adjusted approach for eradicating GWD using a framework rooted in One Health, dedicated to improving disease surveillance and in animals; pinpointing the dominant routes of infection in animals; elucidating the disease burden in animals; determining transmission risk factors among animals and from animals to humans; and identifying practical ways to foster horizontal and multidisciplinary approaches.
Hybrid Metric-Palatini Gravity: Regular Stringlike Configurations
Authors: Bronnikov Kirill , Bolokhov Sergey , Skvortsova Milena
Published: October 2020

We discuss static, cylindrically symmetric vacuum solutions of hybrid metric-Palatini gravity (HMPG), a recently proposed theory that has been shown to successfully pass the local observational tests and produce a certain progress in cosmology. We use HMPG in its well-known scalar-tensor representation. The latter coincides with general relativity containing, as a source of gravity, a conformally coupled scalar field ϕ and a self-interaction potential V(ϕ). The ϕ field can be canonical or phantom, and, accordingly, the theory splits into canonical and phantom sectors. We seek solitonic (stringlike) vacuum solutions of HMPG, that is, completely regular solutions with Minkowski metric far from the symmetry axis, with a possible angular deficit. A transition of the theory to the Einstein conformal frame is used as a tool, and many of the results apply to the general Bergmann-Wagoner-Nordtvedt class of scalar-tensor theories as well as f(R) theories of gravity. One of these results is a one-to-one correspondence between stringlike solutions in the Einstein and Jordan frames if the conformal factor that connects them is everywhere regular. An algorithm for the construction of stringlike solutions in HMPG and scalar-tensor theories is suggested, and some examples of such solutions are obtained and discussed.
Energy Conservation Law in the Closed Universe and a Concept of the Proper Time
Authors: Gorobey Natalia , Lukyanenko Alexander , Drozdov Pavel
Published: October 2020

To define time in the homogeneous anisotropic Bianchi-IX model of the universe, we propose a classical equation of motion of the proper time of the universe as an additional gauge condition. This equation is the law of conservation of energy. As a result, a new parameter, called a “mass” of the universe, appears. This parameter is added to the anisotropy energy and regarded as an observed quantity. The “mass” of the universe is decisive when it comes to the dynamics of its origin.
A Test of Gravitational Theories Including Torsion with the BepiColombo Radio Science Experiment
Authors: Schettino Giulia , Serra Daniele , Tommei Giacomo , Di Pierri Vincenzo
Published: October 2020

Within the framework of the relativity experiment of the ESA/JAXA BepiColombo mission to Mercury, which was launched at the end of 2018, we describe how a test of alternative theories of gravity, including torsion can be set up. Following March et al. (2011), the effects of a non-vanishing spacetime torsion have been parameterized by three torsion parameters, t1, t2, and t3. These parameters can be estimated within a global least squares fit, together with a number of parameters of interest, such as post-Newtonian parameters γ and β, and the orbits of Mercury and the Earth. The simulations have been performed by means of the ORBIT14 orbit determination software, which was developed by the Celestial Mechanics Group of the University of Pisa for the analysis of the BepiColombo radio science experiment. We claim that the torsion parameters can be determined by means of the relativity experiment of BepiColombo at the level of some parts in 10−4, which is a significant result for constraining gravitational theories that allow spacetime torsion.
The Functional Schrödinger Equation in the Semiclassical Limit of Quantum Gravity with a Gaussian Clock Field
Authors: Rotondo Marcello
Published: October 2020

We derive the functional Schrödinger equation for quantum fields in curved spacetime in the semiclassical limit of quantum geometrodynamics with a Gaussian incoherent dust acting as a clock field. We perform the semiclassical limit using a WKB-type expansion of the wave functional in powers of the squared Planck mass. The functional Schrödinger equation that we obtain exhibits a functional time derivative that completes the usual definition of WKB time for curved spacetime, and the usual Schrödinger-type evolution is recovered in Minkowski spacetime.
Relativistic Effects in Orbital Motion of the S-Stars at the Galactic Center
Authors: Gainutdinov Rustam , Baryshev Yurij
Published: October 2020

The Galactic Center star cluster, known as S-stars, is a perfect source of relativistic phenomena observations. The stars are located in the strong field of relativistic compact object Sgr A* and are moving with very high velocities at pericenters of their orbits. In this work we consider motion of several S-stars by using the Parameterized Post-Newtonian (PPN) formalism of General Relativity (GR) and Post-Newtonian (PN) equations of motion of the Feynman’s quantum-field gravity theory, where the positive energy density of the gravity field can be measured via the relativistic pericenter shift. The PPN parameters β and γ are constrained using the S-stars data. The positive value of the Tg00 component of the gravity energy–momentum tensor is confirmed for condition of S-stars motion.
Review of Hepatitis E Virus in Rats: Evident Risk of Species Orthohepevirus C to Human Zoonotic Infection and Disease
Authors: Reuter Gábor , Boros Ákos , Pankovics Péter
Published: October 2020

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) (family Hepeviridae) is one of the most common human pathogens, causing acute hepatitis and an increasingly recognized etiological agent in chronic hepatitis and extrahepatic manifestations. Recent studies reported that not only are the classical members of the species Orthohepevirus A (HEV-A) pathogenic to humans but a genetically highly divergent rat origin hepevirus (HEV-C1) in species Orthohepevirus C (HEV-C) is also able to cause zoonotic infection and symptomatic disease (hepatitis) in humans. This review summarizes the current knowledge of hepeviruses in rodents with special focus of rat origin HEV-C1. Cross-species transmission and genetic diversity of HEV-C1 and confirmation of HEV-C1 infections and symptomatic disease in humans re-opened the long-lasting and full of surprises story of HEV in human. This novel knowledge has a consequence to the epidemiology, clinical aspects, laboratory diagnosis, and prevention of HEV infection in humans.
Diversity of Noroviruses throughout Outbreaks in Germany 2018
Authors: Niendorf Sandra , Faber Mirko , Tröger Andrea , Hackler Julian , Jacobsen Sonja
Published: October 2020

Human norovirus accounts for the majority of viral gastroenteritis cases worldwide. It is a fast evolving virus generating diversity via mutation and recombination. Therefore, new variants and new recombinant strains emerge in the norovirus population. We characterized norovirus positive stool samples from one intensively studied district Märkisch-Oderland state Brandenburg with the samples from other states of Germany in order to understand the molecular epidemiological dynamics of norovirus outbreaks in Germany 2018. PCR systems, Sanger sequencing, and phylogenetic analyses were used for genotyping. Noroviruses of 250 outbreaks in Germany were genotyped, including 39 outbreaks for the district Märkisch-Oderland. Viral diversity in Märkisch-Oderland as compared to Germany was similar, but not identical. The predominant genogroup in Germany was GII with predominate genotype GII.P16-GII.4 Sydney, whereas GII.P31-GII.4 Sydney was the most frequent in Märkisch-Oderland. Genogroup I viruses were less frequently detected, regional and national. Within the sequences of GII.4 recombinants, two distinct clusters were identified with outbreaks from Märkisch-Oderland. Further analysis of sequence data and detailed epidemiological data are needed in order to understand the link between outbreaks in such clusters. Molecular surveillance should be based on samples collected nationally in order to trace comprehensive virus distribution and recombination events in virus population.
Identifying Spanish Areas at More Risk of Monthly BTV Transmission with a Basic Reproduction Number Approach
Authors: Aguilar-Vega Cecilia , Bosch Jaime , Fernández-Carrión Eduardo , Lucientes Javier , Sánchez-Vizcaíno José Manuel
Published: October 2020

Bluetongue virus (BTV) causes a disease that is endemic in Spain and its two major biological vector species, C. imicola and the Obsoletus complex species, differ greatly in their ecology and distribution. Understanding the seasonality of BTV transmission in risk areas is key to improving surveillance and control programs, as well as to better understand the pathogen transmission networks between wildlife and livestock. Here, monthly risk transmission maps were generated using risk categories based on well-known BTV R0 equations and predicted abundances of the two most relevant vectors in Spain. Previously, Culicoides spp. predicted abundances in mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands were obtained using remote sensing data and random forest machine learning algorithm. Risk transmission maps were externally assessed with the estimated date of infection of BTV-1 and BTV-4 historical outbreaks. Our results highlight the differences in risk transmission during April-October, June-August being the period with higher R0 values. Likewise, a natural barrier has been identified between northern and central-southern areas at risk that may hamper BTV spread between them. Our results can be relevant to implement risk-based interventions for the prevention, control and surveillance of BTV and other diseases shared between livestock and wildlife host populations.
Identification of a New Equid Herpesvirus 1 DNA Polymerase (ORF30) Genotype with the Isolation of a C2254/H752 Strain in French Horses Showing no Major Impact on the Strain Behaviour
Authors: Sutton Gabrielle , Thieulent Côme , Fortier Christine , Hue Erika S. , Marcillaud-Pitel Christel , Pléau Alexis , Deslis Alain , Guitton Edouard , Paillot Romain , Pronost Stéphane
Published: October 2020

Equid herpesvirus 1 is one of the most common viral pathogens in the horse population and is associated with respiratory disease, abortion and still-birth, neonatal death and neurological disease. A single point mutation in the DNA polymerase gene (ORF30: A2254G, N752D) has been widely associated with neuropathogenicity of strains, although this association has not been exclusive. This study describes the fortuitous isolation of a strain carrying a new genotype C2254 (H752) from an outbreak in France that lasted several weeks in 2018 and involved 82 horses, two of which showed neurological signs of disease. The strain was characterised as UL clade 10 using the equid herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) classification but has not been identified or isolated since 2018. The retrospective screening of EHV-1 strains collected between 2016 and 2018 did not reveal the presence of the C2254 mutation. When cultured in vitro, the C2254 EHV-1 strain induced a typical EHV-1 syncytium and cytopathic effect but no significant difference was observed when compared with A2254 and G2254 EHV-1 strains. An experimental infection was carried out on four Welsh mountain ponies to confirm the infectious nature of the C2254 strain. A rapid onset of marked respiratory disease lasting at least 2 weeks, with significant virus shedding and cell-associated viraemia, was observed. Finally, an in vitro antiviral assay using impedance measurement and viral load quantification was performed with three antiviral molecules (ganciclovir (GCV), aciclovir (ACV) and aphidicolin (APD)) on the newly isolated C2254 strain and two other A/G2254 field strains. The three strains showed similar sensitivity to ganciclovir and aphidicolin but both C2254 and A2254 strains were more sensitive to aciclovir than the G2254 strain, based on viral load measurement.
From the Infection to the Immunotherapy in Cervical Cancer: Can We Stop the Natural Course of the Disease?
Authors: Luvero Daniela , Lopez Salvatore , Bogani Giorgio , Raspagliesi Francesco , Angioli Roberto
Published: October 2020

Cervical cancer (CC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in women aged 20–39 years. Persistent infection with oncogenic types of human papillomavirus (HPV) represents the most important risk factor for the development of cervical cancer. Three HPVs vaccines are currently on the global market: bivalent, quadrivalent, and nonavalent. The nonavalent vaccine provides protection against almost 90% of HPV-related CC. Despite availability of primary and secondary prevention measures, CC persists as one of the most common cancers among women around the world. Although CC is a largely preventable disease, management of persistent or recurrent CC no longer amenable to control with surgery or radiation therapy has not improved significantly with the progress of modern chemotherapy and disseminated carcinoma of the cervix remains a discouraging clinical entity with a 1-year survival rate between 10% and 15%. Over the last few years, there has been increasing interest in immunotherapy as a strategy to fight tumors. This article focuses on recent discoveries about the HPV vaccine and immunotherapies in the prevention and treatment of CC, highlighting the future view.
Exploring the Potential of T-Cells for a Universal Influenza Vaccine
Authors: Vijayanand Sharon , Gomes Keegan Braz , Gala Rikhav P. , Uddin Mohammad N. , D’Souza Martin J.
Published: October 2020

Among the four types of influenza viruses, the influenza A strains and their subtypes have been responsible for causing worldwide pandemics and seasonal epidemics [...]
Immune Response against Adenovirus in Acute Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Immunocompetent Children
Authors: Biserni Giovanni Battista , Dondi Arianna , Masetti Riccardo , Bandini Jessica , Dormi Ada , Conti Francesca , Pession Andrea , Lanari Marcello
Published: October 2020

During acute upper respiratory tract infections (AURTIs) caused by Adenoviruses, the mix of severe clinical presentation, together with elevation of white blood cells (WBCs) and C-reactive protein (CRP), often mimicking bacterial infection, leads to an inappropriate use of antibiotics. We studied 23 immunocompetent children admitted to our Pediatric Emergency Unit with signs of acute Adenoviral AURTIs, aiming at better clarifying the biological background sustaining this clinical presentation. Infection etiology was tested with nasopharyngeal swabs, serology, and DNA-PCR. During fever peaks and subsequent recovery, we assessed WBC count with differential, CRP, procalcitonin, serum concentration of six inflammatory cytokines, and lymphocyte subset populations. Results: IL-6 and IL-8 were found elevated in the acute phase, whereas a significant decrease during recovery was found for IL-6 and IL-10. We highlighted an increase of B lymphocytes in the acute phase; conversely, during recovery, an increase in T regulatory cells was noted. Monocytes and leukocytes were found markedly elevated during fever peaks compared to convalescence. All patients recovered uneventfully. The composition of lymphocyte population subsets and serum alterations are the main drivers of an overprescribed antibiotic. Examination of hospital admissions and performance is needed in further investigations to rule out bacterial infections or inflammatory syndromes.
Cholera, the Current Status of Cholera Vaccines and Recommendations for Travellers
Authors: Gabutti Giovanni , Rossanese Andrea , Tomasi Alberto , Giuffrida Sandro , Nicosia Vincenzo , Barriga Juan , Florescu Caterina , Sandri Federica , Stefanati Armando
Published: October 2020

Cholera is endemic in approximately 50 countries, primarily in Africa and South and Southeast Asia, and in these areas, it remains a disease associated with poverty. In developed nations, cholera is rare, and cases are typically imported from endemic areas by returning travellers. Cholera is readily preventable with the tools available to modern medicine. In developing nations, cholera transmission can be prevented through improved water, sanitation, and hygiene services and the use of oral cholera vaccines (OCVs). For travellers, risk can be mitigated by practicing regular hand hygiene and consuming food and water from safe sources. OCVs should be considered for high-risk travellers likely to be exposed to cholera patients or contaminated water and food. There are currently three World Health Organization pre-qualified OCVs, which are based on killed whole-cell strains of Vibrio cholerae. These established vaccines offer significant protection in adults and children for up to 2 years. A novel live attenuated vaccine that provides rapid-onset protection in adults and children is licensed in the USA and Europe only. Live attenuated OCVs may mimic the natural infection of V. cholerae more closely, generating rapid immune responses without the need for repeat dosing. These potential benefits have prompted the ongoing development of several additional live attenuated vaccines. The objective of this article is to provide a general review of the current landscape of OCVs, including a discussion of their appropriate use in international travellers.
Preliminary Evaluation of In Vitro Bacteriostatic and Bactericidal Effect of Salt on Leptospira spp.
Authors: Cilia Giovanni , Fratini Filippo , Buona Elena della , Bertelloni Fabrizio
Published: October 2020

Environmental resistance is an important factor for understanding the epidemiology of leptospirosis. Recently, new Leptospira hosts were identified, including also marine mammals. Moreover, halotolerant Leptospira strain, isolated from the environment and animals, highlighted the capability of this microorganism to persist in the seawater. The aim of this research was to investigate the bacteriostatic and bactericidal effect of salt on Leptospira strains belonging to 16 different serovars. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were verified through the microdilutions method starting from a 20% sodium chloride concentration. MIC values obtained were between 0.3125% and 10% of salt, while MBC values between 0.625% and >20%. Icterohaemorrhagiae (MIC: 0.3125%; MBC: 0.625%) resulted the most inhibited serovar, while the most resistant was Tarassovi (MIC: 10%; MBC: >20%). Interestingly, trends were reported for Pomona (MIC: 1.25%; MBC: >20%) and Bratislava (MIC: 0.625%; MBC: 20%), highlighting low MIC values but high MBC values. This is the first investigation aimed at the in vitro effect of salt on the growth of Leptospira spp. reference strains.
Autoimmune Dry Eye without Significant Ocular Surface Co-Morbidities and Mental Health
Authors: Ashena Zahra , Dashputra Radhika , Nanavaty Mayank A.
Published: October 2020

Dry eye symptoms can negatively affect the psychological, physical, and social functioning, which can potentially impair the health-related quality of life. This review evaluated the association between autoimmune related dry eye in the absence of significant ocular surface co-morbidities and mental health. This review found a significantly higher prevalence of mental health disorders (such as depression and anxiety) in systemic lupus erythematous, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, Behcet’s disease, and primary Sjogren’s syndrome patients when compared to the general population. Moreover, patients with depression and anxiety interpret ocular sensations differently than healthy controls and the perception of dry eye symptoms can be influenced by their mood. Somatization is common in depression, and this could influence the perception of ocular discomfort. Anti-depressants and anxiolytics with their potential side effects on the tear film status may also contribute or aggravate the dry eye symptoms in these patients. Although ophthalmologists manage the dry eye disease, as per standardized algorithms, they should be mindful of different ocular sensation interpretation and coexistent mental health issues in a large number of this patient group and initiate a multidisciplinary management plan in certain cases. While rheumatologists look after their autoimmune condition, it may be worth liaising with GP and/or psychiatrist colleagues in order to address their neuropathic type pain and mental health co-morbidities.
All-in-One Deposition to Synergistically Manipulate Perovskite Growth for High-Performance Solar Cell
Authors: Lv Yifan , Zhang Hui , Wang Jinpei , Chen Libao , Bian Lifang , An Zhongfu , Qian Zongyao , Ren Guoqi , Wu Jie , Nüesch Frank , Huang Wei
Published: October 2020

Nonradiative recombination losses originating from crystallographic distortions and issues occurring upon interface formation are detrimental for the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells. Herein, we incorporated a series of carbamide molecules (urea, biuret, or triuret) consisting of both Lewis base (–NH
2
) and Lewis acid (–C=O) groups into the perovskite precursor to simultaneously eliminate the bulk and interface defects. Depending on the different coordination ability with perovskite component, the incorporated molecules can either modify crystallization dynamics allowing for large crystal growth at low temperature (60°C), associate with antisite or undercoordinated ions for defect passivation, or accumulate at the surface as an energy cascade layer to enhance charge transfer, respectively. Synergistic benefits of the above functions can be obtained by rationally optimizing additive combinations in an all-in-one deposition method. As a result, a champion efficiency of 21.6% with prolonged operational stability was achieved in an inverted MAPbI
3
perovskite solar cell by combining biuret and triuret additives. The simplified all-in-one fabrication procedure, adaptable to different types of perovskites in terms of pure MAPbI
3
, mixed perovskite, and all-inorganic perovskite, provides a cost-efficient and reproducible way to obtain high-performance inverted perovskite solar cells.
Defensive urbanism and local governance
Authors: Varona Gema
Published: October 2020

In contrast with the perspective of local safety audits for women, which aim to promote the democratic use of public space in the context of inclusive urbanism or pro-social design, defensive urbanism is a term that has been related to situational prevention in order to bar or restrict the use of public space by several stigmatised groups. This trend can be understood in terms of the broken windows theory and zero tolerance approaches in criminology as well as of social exclusion in globalised cities. This paper will tackle the origin and development of the concept of defensive urbanism, as a kind of local governance related to broader trends in securatisation, as well as its visible ramifications in some administrative regulations in some Basque municipalities.
Feminist criminology and technopolitics
Authors: Martins Fernanda
Published: October 2020

In this article, based on the debates of feminist criminology in Brazil, we aim to analyze feminist campaigns that use technopolitics as a strategy to face gender violence. These campaigns are exposed through the disputes between emancipatory and punitive claims. We propose to use hashtags as feminist analysis tools to understand the ambivalence present in vulnerability. In order to do so, we will use the hashtags #ChegaDeFiuFiu, #MeuPrimeiroAssedio, and #MeuAmigoSecreto to analyze new meanings of justice promoted by the feminist movements, which appear not to prioritize the use of punitive power. In the same way, we seek from the #EleNão movement, recognized as feminist democratic technopolitics, to reformulate the possibilities of analyzing the Brazilian criminological field.
Where feminists dare
Authors: Bielska-Brodziak Agnieszka , Drapalska-Grochowicz Marlena , Peroni Caterina , Rapetti Elisa
Published: October 2020

This paper focuses on the public debate in Poland and Italy concerning the right to abortion in the contemporary rise of populist neo-conservative forces in Europe and of a global feminist movement. In both countries, the historical Catholic interference into women's reproductive rights and self-determination has been enforced by the renewed alliance of right-wing governments and pro-life groups to converge into a transnational “anti-gender war”. This represents a real backlash against women’s achievements over the last decades in terms of reproductive and sexual citizenship, which appears to be the battlefield for redefinition of western citizenship in times of global crisis. Although different genealogies, we identified a common framing of neo-conservative discourse, and of feminist claims and practices, as that of feminist strikes and social mutualism. In this perspective, we consider these practices as a normativity from below, arguing that feminist movement is addressing a new paradigm of citizenship.
BIOQUIMICA AMBIENTAL
Authors: Santos Gabriel Borges dos , Souza Edeilson Brito de , Souza Joice de Jesus , Invenção Feliphe Santiago da , Sobrinho Érico Lima , Sousa Larissa Rodrigues de Oliveira
Published: October 2020

O rápido desenvolvimento industrial e agropecuário, atrelado ao crescimento populacional e problemas de saneamento básico, tem contribuído de forma significativa para a poluição dos corpos hídricos, especialmente àqueles próximos aos centros urbanos, por meio do descarte inadequado de efluentes domésticos e industriais além de resíduos sólidos, prejudicando os ecossistemas naturais e às populações que dele fazem uso. Partindo-se dessa problemática, o estudo das macrófitas aquáticas através da bioquímica ambiental é uma das possibilidades para diagnosticar e posteriormente tratar os corpos hídricos poluídos, pois tais macrófitas podem apresentar potencial bioindicador e fitorremediador de diversos poluentes, os quais incluem substâncias xenobióticas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar uma análise no lago conhecido como Várzea no povoado Quipé, município de Biritinga-BA, objetivando identificar a presença de plantas bioindicadoras e fitorremediadoras. As metodologias adotadas foram: entrevistas semiestruturadas com moradores do entorno; observações in loco das condições do corpo hídrico e análise físico-química da água. Foi encontrada uma comunidade muito grande de macrófitas aquáticas. Assim, adotar estratégias de recuperação/despoluição dessa área perpassa pela sensibilização e conscientização do poder público e da sociedade civil e posterior uso do potencial fitorremediador dessas macrófitas.
Abstract
The accelerated industrial and agricultural development, associated with the population growth and sanitation problems have contributed significantly to the pollution of hydric bodies, especially those close to urban centers. This occurs due to the inadequate disposal of domestic and industrial effluents and the discard of solid waste, which harms the natural ecosystems and the populations that make use of them.  Starting from this problem, the study of aquatic macrophytes through environmental biochemistry is one of the possibilities to diagnose and then treat polluted hydric bodies, such as macrophytes may present bioindicator potential and phytoremediator of various pollutants, which include xenobiotic substances. The objective of this paper was to perform an analysis in the lake known as Várzea, in the village of Quipé in Biritinga-BA, aiming to identify the presence of bioindicator and phytoremediator plants. The methodologies adopted were: semi-structured interviews with surrounding residents; on-site observations of hydric body conditions and physicochemical analyses of water. A very large community of aquatic macrophytes was found. Thus, adopting recovery/depollution strategies in this area permeates the sensitization and awareness of the public authorities and civil society and the subsequent use of the phytomediator potential of these macrophytes.