bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization and Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Patients with Sarcoidosis
Authors: Brito-Zerón P. , Gracia-Tello B. , Robles A. , Alguacil A. , Bonet M. , De-Escalante B. , Noblejas-Mosso A. , Gómez-de-la-Torre R. , Akasbi M. , Pérez-de-Lis M. , Pérez-Alvarez R. , Ramos-Casals M. ,   on behalf of the SarcoGEAS-SEMI Registry
Published: May 2021

To analyze the clinical characteristics and outcomes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in patients with sarcoidosis from a large multicenter cohort from Southern Europe and to identify the risk factors associated with a more complicated infection. We searched for patients with sarcoidosis presenting with SARS-CoV-2 infection (defined according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control guidelines) among those included in the SarcoGEAS Registry, a nationwide, multicenter registry of patients fulfilling the American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society/World Association of Sarcoidosis and Other Granulomatous Disorders 1999 classification criteria for sarcoidosis. A 2:1 age-sex-matched subset of patients with sarcoidosis without SARS-CoV-2 infection was selected as control population. Forty-five patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were identified (28 women, mean age 55 years). Thirty-six patients presented a symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection and 14 were hospitalized (12 required supplemental oxygen, 2 intensive care unit admission and 1 mechanical ventilation). Four patients died due to progressive respiratory failure. Patients who required hospital admission had an older mean age (64.9 vs. 51.0 years, p = 0.006), a higher frequency of baseline comorbidities including cardiovascular disease (64% vs. 23%, p = 0.016), diabetes mellitus (43% vs. 13%, p = 0.049) and chronic liver/kidney diseases (36% vs. 0%, p = 0.002) and presented more frequently fever (79% vs. 35%, p = 0.011) and dyspnea (50% vs. 3%, p = 0.001) in comparison with patients managed at home. Age- and sex-adjusted multivariate analysis identified the age at diagnosis of SARS-Cov-2 infection as the only independent variable associated with hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio 1.18, 95% conficence interval 1.04–1.35). A baseline moderate/severe pulmonary impairment in function tests was associated with a higher rate of hospitalization but the difference was not statistically significant (50% vs. 23%, p = 0.219). A close monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 infection in elderly patients with sarcoidosis, especially in those with baseline cardiopulmonary diseases and chronic liver or renal failure, is recommended. The low frequency of severe pulmonary involvement in patients with sarcoidosis from Southern Europe may explain the weak prognostic role of baseline lung impairment in our study, in contrast to studies from other geographical areas.
Prevalence of Linda Virus Neutralizing Antibodies in the Austrian Pig Population
Authors: Kiesler Alexandra , Plankensteiner Jakob , Schwarz Lukas , Riedel Christiane , Seitz Kerstin , Mötz Marlene , Ladinig Andrea , Lamp Benjamin , Rümenapf Till
Published: May 2021

A novel pestivirus species, termed Lateral-shaking Inducing Neuro-Degenerative Agent virus (LindaV), was discovered in a piglet-producing farm in Austria in 2015 related to severe congenital tremor cases. Since the initial outbreak LindaV has not been found anywhere else. In this study, we determined the seroprevalence of LindaV infections in the domestic pig population of Austria. A fluorophore labeled infectious cDNA clone of LindaV (mCherry-LindaV) was generated and used in serum virus neutralization (SVN) assays for the detection of LindaV specific neutralizing antibodies in porcine serum samples. In total, 637 sera from sows and gilts from five federal states of Austria, collected between the years 2015 and 2020, were analyzed. We identified a single serum showing a high neutralizing antibody titer, that originated from a farm (Farm S2) in the proximity of the initially affected farm. The analysis of 57 additional sera from Farm S2 revealed a wider spread of LindaV in this pig herd. Furthermore, a second LindaV strain originating from this farm could be isolated in cell culture and was further characterized at the genetic level. Possible transmission routes and virus reservoir hosts of this emerging porcine virus need to be addressed in future studies.
Toll-Like Receptors: Are They Taking a Toll on the Heart in Viral Myocarditis?
Authors: Favere Kasper , Bosman Matthias , Klingel Karin , Heymans Stephane , Van Linthout Sophie , Delputte Peter L. , De Sutter Johan , Heidbuchel Hein , Guns Pieter-Jan
Published: May 2021

Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the heart with viral infections being the most common aetiology. Its complex biology remains poorly understood and its clinical management is one of the most challenging in the field of cardiology. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), a family of evolutionarily conserved pattern recognition receptors, are increasingly known to be implicated in the pathophysiology of viral myocarditis. Their central role in innate and adaptive immune responses, and in the inflammatory reaction that ensues, indeed makes them prime candidates to profoundly affect every stage of the disease process. This review describes the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of viral myocarditis, and scrutinises the role of TLRs in every phase. We conclude with directions for future research in this field.
Anti-HIV Activity of Cucurbitacin-D against Cigarette Smoke Condensate-Induced HIV Replication in the U1 Macrophages
Authors: Kodidela Sunitha , Sinha Namita , Kumar Asit , Kumar Santosh
Published: May 2021

Chemodietary agents are emerging as promising adjuvant therapies in treating various disease conditions. However, there are no adjuvant therapies available to minimize the neurotoxicity of currently existing antiretroviral drugs (ARVs). In this study, we investigated the anti-HIV effect of a chemodietary agent, Cucurbitacin-D (Cur-D), in HIV-infected macrophages using an in-vitro blood–brain barrier (BBB) model. Since tobacco smoking is prevalent in the HIV population, and it exacerbates HIV replication, we also tested the effect of Cur-D against cigarette smoke condensate (CSC)-induced HIV replication. Our results showed that Cur-D treatment reduces the viral load in a dose-dependent (0–1 μM) manner without causing significant toxicity at <1 μM concentration. Further, a daily dose of Cur-D (0.1 μM) not only reduced p24 in control conditions, but also reduced CSC (10 μg/mL)-induced p24 in U1 cells. Similarly, Cur-D (single dose of 0.4 μM) significantly reduced the CSC (single dose of 40 μg/mL)-induced HIV replication across the BBB model. In addition, treatment with Cur-D reduced the level of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. Therefore, Cur-D, as an adjuvant therapy, may be used not only to suppress HIV in the brain, but also to reduce the CNS toxicity of currently existing ARVs.
Antigenicity and Immunogenicity Analysis of the E. coli Expressed FMDV Structural Proteins; VP1, VP0, VP3 of the South African Territories Type 2 Virus
Authors: Li Guoxiu , Wubshet Ashenafi , Ding Yaozhong , Li Qian , Dai Junfei , Wang Yang , Hou Qian , Chen Jiao , Ma Bing , Szczotka-Bochniarz Anna , Szathmary Susan , Zhang Yongguang , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2021

An alternative vaccine design approach and diagnostic kits are highly required against the anticipated pandemicity caused by the South African Territories type 2 (SAT2) Foot and Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV). However, the distinct antigenicity and immunogenicity of VP1, VP0, and VP3 of FMDV serotype SAT2 are poorly understood. Similarly, the particular roles of the three structural proteins in novel vaccine design and development remain unexplained. We therefore constructed VP1, VP0, and VP3 encoding gene (SAT2:JX014256 strain) separately fused with His-SUMO (histidine-small ubiquitin-related modifier) inserted into pET-32a cassette to express the three recombinant proteins and separately evaluated their antigenicity and immunogenicity in mice. The fusion protein was successfully expressed and purified by the Ni-NTA resin chromatography. The level of serum antibody, spleen lymphocyte proliferation, and cytokines against the three distinct recombinant proteins were analyzed. Results showed that the anti-FMDV humoral response was triggered by these proteins, and the fusion proteins did enhance the splenocyte immune response in the separately immunized mice. We observed low variations among the three fusion proteins in terms of the antibody and cytokine production in mice. Hence, in this study, results demonstrated that the structural proteins of SAT2 FMDV could be used for the development of immunodiagnostic kits and subunit vaccine designs.
Identification of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus DNA, p16, and E6/E7 Oncoproteins in Laryngeal and Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Lifsics Andrejs , Groma Valerija , Cistjakovs Maksims , Skuja Sandra , Deksnis Renars , Murovska Modra
Published: May 2021

Human papillomavirus (HPV) was proven to play a significant role in cancer development in the oropharynx. However, its role in the development of laryngeal (LSCC) and hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC) remains to be clarified. High-risk HPV (HR-HPV) viral proteins E6 and E7 are considered to be pertinent to HPV-related carcinogenesis. Hence, our aim was to estimate LSCC and HPSCC for HR-HPV DNA, p16, and E6/E7 oncoprotein status by using molecular virology and immunohistochemistry methods. The prevalence of HPV16 infection was 22/41 (53.7%) and 20/31 (64.5%) for LSCC and HPSCC, accordingly. The majority of HPV16+ tumor samples were stage III or IV. In most samples, the presence of either HPV16 E6 or HPV16 E7 viral protein in dysplastic or tumor cells was confirmed using immunohistochemistry. Our results suggest a high prevalence of HPV16 as a primary HR-HPV type in LSCC and HPSCC. The lack of HPV E6/E7 oncoproteins in some tumor samples may suggest either the absence of viral integration or the presence of other mechanisms of tumorigenesis. The utilization of p16 IHC as a surrogate marker of HR-HPV infection is impractical in LSCC and HPSCC.
Diversity and Reassortment Rate of Influenza A Viruses in Wild Ducks and Gulls
Authors: Postnikova Yulia , Treshchalina Anastasia , Boravleva Elizaveta , Gambaryan Alexandra , Ishmukhametov Aydar , Matrosovich Mikhail , Fouchier Ron A. M. , Sadykova Galina , Prilipov Alexey , Lomakina Natalia
Published: May 2021

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) evolve via point mutations and reassortment of viral gene segments. The patterns of reassortment in different host species differ considerably. We investigated the genetic diversity of IAVs in wild ducks and compared it with the viral diversity in gulls. The complete genomes of 38 IAVs of H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2, H3N6, H3N8, H4N6, H5N3, H6N2, H11N6, and H11N9 subtypes isolated from wild mallard ducks and gulls resting in a city pond in Moscow, Russia were sequenced. The analysis of phylogenetic trees showed that stable viral genotypes do not persist from year to year in ducks owing to frequent gene reassortment. For comparison, similar analyses were carried out using sequences of IAVs isolated in the same period from ducks and gulls in The Netherlands. Our results revealed a significant difference in diversity and rates of reassortment of IAVs in ducks and gulls.
SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination and Anaphylaxis: Recommendations of the French Allergy Community and the Montpellier World Health Organization Collaborating Center
Authors: Tanno Luciana Kase , Berard Frédéric , Beaudoin Etienne , Didier Alain , Demoly Pascal
Published: May 2021

Vaccines against COVID-19 (and its emerging variants) are an essential global intervention to control the current pandemic situation. Anaphylactic reactions have been reported after SARS-CoV2 RNA vaccines. Anaphylaxis is defined as a severe life-threatening generalized or systemic hypersensitivity reaction. This risk is estimated at 1/1,000,000 in the context of vaccine safety surveillance programs. The COVID-19 vaccination is rolling-out vastly in different courtiers and surveillance programs are key to monitor severe adverse reactions, such as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis due to vaccine is extremely rare and specific cases should receive individualized investigation and care. The here presented recommendations and follow-up from the French allergy community and the Montpellier WHO Collaborating Center in order to support the vaccination program and intends to support to healthcare professionals in their daily basis.
Water Use Efficiencies of Different Maturity Group Soybean Cultivars in the Humid Mississippi Delta
Authors: Pinnamaneni Srinivasa R. , Anapalli Saseendran S. , Fisher Daniel K. , Reddy Krishna N.
Published: May 2021

Introducing alternative cultivars with enhanced water use efficiencies can help alleviate pressure on groundwater for crop irrigations in Mississippi (MS) Delta. A two-year field study was conducted in 2019–2020 to compare the water use efficiencies (WUE) of recently released and pre-released soybean {Glycine max (L.) Merr.} cultivars in maturity group (MG) III (‘P37A78’, ‘LG03-4561-14’), IV (‘Dyna-gro 4516x’, ‘DS25-1, DT97-4290’), and V (‘S12-1362’, ‘S14-16306’) in the MS Delta. The experimental design was a split-plot with cultivar as the first factor and the second factor was water variant irrigation (IR) and no irrigation (RF, rainfed), replicated three times. The MG IV cultivar Dyna-gro 4516x recorded the highest grain yield and WUE: grain yields were 4.58 Mg ha−1 and 3.89 Mg ha−1 under IR and RF, respectively in 2019, and 4.74 Mg ha−1 and 4.35 Mg ha−1 in 2020. The WUE were 7.2 and 6.9 kg ha−1 mm−1, respectively, in 2019 under IR and RF, and 13.4 and 16.9 kg ha−1 mm−1 in 2020. The data reveals that ‘Dyna-gro 4516x’ (MG IV), ‘LG03-4561-14’ (MG III), and ‘P37A78’ (MG III) are best adapted to the early soybean production system (ESPS) in MS Delta region for sustainable production for conserving water resources.
The Role of Faults in Groundwater Circulation before and after Seismic Events: Insights from Tracers, Water Isotopes and Geochemistry
Authors: Fronzi Davide , Mirabella Francesco , Cardellini Carlo , Caliro Stefano , Palpacelli Stefano , Cambi Costanza , Valigi Daniela , Tazioli Alberto
Published: May 2021

The interaction between fluids and tectonic structures such as fault systems is a much-discussed issue. Many scientific works are aimed at understanding what the role of fault systems in the displacement of deep fluids is, by investigating the interaction between the upper mantle, the lower crustal portion and the upraising of gasses carried by liquids. Many other scientific works try to explore the interaction between the recharge processes, i.e., precipitation, and the fault zones, aiming to recognize the function of the abovementioned structures and their capability to direct groundwater flow towards preferential drainage areas. Understanding the role of faults in the recharge processes of punctual and linear springs, meant as gaining streams, is a key point in hydrogeology, as it is known that faults can act either as flow barriers or as preferential flow paths. In this work an investigation of a fault system located in the Nera River catchment (Italy), based on geo-structural investigations, tracer tests, geochemical and isotopic recharge modelling, allows to identify the role of the normal fault system before and after the 2016–2017 central Italy seismic sequence (Mmax = 6.5). The outcome was achieved by an integrated approach consisting of a structural geology field work, combined with GIS-based analysis, and of a hydrogeological investigation based on artificial tracer tests and geochemical and isotopic analyses.
Assessing the Impact of Operating Conditions on the Energy and Exergy Efficiency for Multi-Effect Vacuum Membrane Distillation Systems
Authors: Najib A. , Orfi J. , Alansary H. , Ali E.
Published: May 2021

A comprehensive study was conducted to elucidate the effect of operating conditions on the performance of a multi-effect vacuum membrane distillation pilot plant. A theoretical assessment of the energy and exergy efficiency of the process was achieved using a mathematical model based on heat and mass transfer, which was calibrated using experimental data obtained from the pilot plant. The pilot plant was a solar vacuum multi-effect membrane distillation (V-MEMD) module comprising five stages. It was found that a maximal permeate mass flux of 17.2 kg/m2·h, a recovery ratio of 47.6%, and a performance ratio of 5.38% may be achieved. The resulting gain output ratio (GOR) under these conditions was 5.05, which is comparable to previously reported values. Furthermore, the present work systematically evaluated not only the specific thermal energy consumption (STEC), but also the specific electrical energy consumption (SEEC), which has been generally neglected in previous studies. We show that STEC and SEEC may reach 166 kWh/m3 and 4.5 kWh/m3, respectively. We also observed that increasing the feed flow rate has a positive impact on the process performance, particularly when the feed temperature is higher than 65 °C. Under ideal operational conditions, the exergetic efficiency reached 21.1%, and the maximum fraction of exergy destruction was localized in the condenser compartment. Variation of the inlet hot and cold temperatures at a constant differential showed an interesting and variable impact on the performance indicators of the V-MEMD unit. The difference with the lowest inlet temperatures exhibited the most negative impact on the system performance.
The Variation of Water Quality in Three Land Use Types in U Minh Ha National Park, Ca Mau Province, Vietnam Using Multivariate Statistical Approaches
Authors: Le Van Du , Nguyen Thanh Giao , Truong Hoang Dan
Published: May 2021

This study was conducted to assess the water quality affected by different land use patterns in U Minh Ha National Park, Ca Mau, Vietnam. This study determined the water quality characteristics in three land use types (Acacia hybrid, planted melaleuca cajuputi, and natural melaleuca cajuputi) at different plant ages on two acid sulfate soil layers in the rainy season (8/2018) and dry season (4/2019) using nine water quality parameters. Multivariate statistical analyses were applied to evaluate the correlation and spatial and temporal variations in the water quality. The study results showed that the water quality in S-ASS was more polluted than that in D-ASS, characterized by low pH; the EC, organic matters (BOD and COD), nutrients (N-NH4+ and N-NO3−), and metal ions (Al3+ and Fe3+) were high; and the EC, BOD, COD, Al3+, and N-NO3− were determined high in D-ASS. The NMC area was noted to have high concentrations of organic matters and nutrients, while the factors specific to acidic soil were found to be higher in the AH and PMC areas. The water quality in the rainy season tended to be more polluted than that in the dry season. The cluster analysis grouped the land use patterns on S-ASS and D-ASS in both seasons into four groups, with a clear similarity between the wet and dry seasons in the areas at various plant ages. The seasonal variations of the water quality of the three land use types were distinguished by the main parameters, including pH, EC, BOD, N-NO3−, and Al3+ (S-ASS) and EC, BOD, N-NO3−, N-NH4+, and Fe3+ (D-ASS). Therefore, there is a need for better water management measures in the rainy season and focus on the key parameters causing water quality variations in each area. The findings in this study provided important information for the future water quality monitoring for both agricultural production and conservation in the national park.
Occurrence of Cryptosporidium Oocysts in Leisure Pools in the UK, 2017, and Modelling of Oocyst Contamination Events
Authors: Chalmers Rachel M. , Simmonds Lester P. , Wood Martin , Luxford Megan , Miller Rob , Johnston Rob
Published: May 2021

Cryptosporidium is a major cause of diarrhoea outbreaks linked to swimming pools, but little is known about the frequency of contamination. The primary aim was to investigate the occurrence and concentration, through sampling and modelling, of Cryptosporidium oocysts in leisure pools. Secondary aims were to compare detections with operational parameters, provide the evidence-base for guidance, and improve sampling capacity and interpretation for public health investigations. Up to 1000 L pool water was sampled during swim sessions once weekly for 10 weeks from 8 August 2017 at six volunteer pools. Oocysts were detected by microscopy in 12/59 (20%) pool water samples, at least once in each pool; 8/12 (66%) detections were in August when bather loads were highest. At three pools, 1 L filter backwash was sampled weekly and oocysts were detected in 2/29 (7%) samples, following detections in pool water. The probabilities of a bather contaminating the pool ranged from 1 in 1000 to over 1 in 10,000. Monte Carlo analysis showed that when high bather numbers caused contamination on over 70% of days, multiple events per day were more likely than single events. In these generally well-managed leisure pools, Cryptosporidium risk related to high bather loads. We conclude that public awareness campaigns for bather hygiene, and reminding pool operators of current guidance for managing faecal accidents, should be ahead of peak swim season.
The Potential of BIM in Disseminating Knowledge about Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems: Learning through the Design Process
Authors: Dariva Matheus Alves , Araujo André
Published: May 2021

Despite the low rate of sewer service coverage in developing countries, especially in small towns and rural areas, decentralized wastewater treatment systems (DEWATS) are alternatives to ensure public health. Nonetheless, understanding the physical or functional aspects of these system constructions remains difficult when there is no bibliography, a teaching professional, or even a prototype that allows technical conclusions about specific processes. Although resource combination in a BIM environment works as a facilitator to obtain compact and sustainable results, the purpose of this collaboration is not only to simplify the design process. This paper aims to propose a way to use BIM concepts as a learning tool throughout the modeling process. To do so, we developed a BIM template with specific DEWATS characteristics in order to provide not only information needed for construction, but also information that can favor learning. We measured how much the level of development (LOD) can influence learning about these systems during the design process, directing users to make the best implementation choices. The adoption of qualitative analysis of a questionnaire answered by three groups of professionals (general CADD software users, BIM software with generic template users, and BIM software with specific DEWATS template users) allowed us to identify differences among them, such as the number of DEWATS known, considered LOD, learning, and handicaps in the design of these systems. The results pointed out that the BIM tools can influence learning about new and unknown specific systems, which is directly related to the LOD of a model.
Late Glacial Marine Transgression and Ecosystem Response in the Landlocked Elefsis Bay (Northern Saronikos Gulf, Greece)
Authors: Kouli Katerina , Triantaphyllou Maria V. , Koukousioura Olga , Dimiza Margarita D. , Parinos Constantine , Panagiotopoulos Ioannis P. , Tsourou Theodora , Gogou Alexandra , Mavrommatis Nikolaos , Syrides George , Kyrikou Styliani , Skampa Elisavet , Skylaki Ester , Anagnostou Christos , Karageorgis Aristomenis P.
Published: May 2021

Coastal landscapes are sensitive to changes due to the interplay between surface and submarine geological processes, climate variability, and relative sea level fluctuations. The sedimentary archives of such marginal areas record in detail the complex evolution of the paleoenvironment and the diachronic biota response. The Elefsis Bay is nowadays a landlocked shallow marine basin with restricted communication to the open Saronikos Gulf. A multi-proxy investigation of a high-resolution sediment core recovered from the deepest part of the basin offered a unique opportunity to record the paleoenvironmental and aquatic ecosystem response to climate and glacioeustatic sea level changes since the Late Glacial marine transgression. The retrieved sedimentary deposits, subjected to thorough palynological (pollen, non-pollen palynomorphs, dinoflagellates), micropaleontological (benthic foraminifera, calcareous nannoplankton, ostracods), and mollusc analyses, indicates isolation of the Elefsis Bay from the Saronikos Gulf and the occurrence of a shallow freshwater paleolake since at least 13,500 cal BP, while after 11,350 cal BP the transition towards lagoon conditions is evidenced. The marine transgression in the Elefsis Bay is dated at 7500 cal BP, marking the establishment of the modern marine realm.
Simulating Water and Pollution Exports from Soil to Stream during the Thawing Period at the Small River Basin Scale
Authors: Wang Pengxiang , Wang Kang , Zhou Zuhao
Published: May 2021

A physical model was developed to describe the soil-to-stream export processes of water and pollutants in a small river basin during the soil thawing period. The hydrological and pollution transport and transformation behaviors in paddy- and corn-dominated catchments were numerically simulated; the impacts of the pollution concentrations, interactions between the migrated water and pollutants in the soil, and pollutant transformations during the pollution export were coupled. Experimental field data from the Heidingzi river basin during the soil thawing period were used to calibrate the model parameters and evaluate the performance. The mass of the dissolved pollutants from soil particles in the migrated soil pore water was the key factor affecting the pollution export into the streams; the water content directly affected the pollution export. The concentration of the pollutants peaked when the initial exported water was high. The pollutant transport processes influenced the pollution export more significantly after the soil water was significantly reduced. The N-S efficiency coefficients between the simulated and monitored flow rates and the pollution concentrations at the outlets of the paddy- and corn-dominated catchments were >0.60 and >0.54, respectively. The system deviations between the simulated and monitored flow rates and the pollution concentrations were <10% and <15%, respectively. The proposed model effectively described the water flow, pollution transport and transformation processes.
Geochemical Characteristics of Alluvial Aquifer in the Varaždin Region
Authors: Karlović Igor , Marković Tamara , Šparica Miko Martina , Maldini Krešimir
Published: May 2021

The variation in the major groundwater chemistry can be controlled by dissolution and precipitation of minerals, oxidation-reduction reactions, sorption and exchange reactions, and transformation of organic matter, but it can also occur as a result of anthropogenic influence. The alluvial aquifer represents the main source of potable water for public water supply of the town Varaždin and the surrounding settlements. Sampling campaigns were carried out from June 2017 until June 2019 to collect groundwater samples from nine observation wells. Major cations and anions, dissolved organic carbon and nutrients were analyzed in the Hydrochemical Laboratory of Croatian Geological survey. The sampled waters belong to the CaMg-HCO3 hydrochemical type, except the water from observation well P-4039 that belongs to NaCa-HCO3 hydrochemical type. It was identified that groundwater chemistry is mainly controlled by hydrogeological environment (natural mechanism), but anthropogenic influence is not negligible. The results of this research have significant implications on sustainable coexistence between agricultural production and water supply.
Flood Risk Management with Transboundary Conflict and Cooperation Dynamics in the Kabul River Basin
Authors: Taraky Yar M. , Liu Yongbo , McBean Ed , Daggupati Prasad , Gharabaghi Bahram
Published: May 2021

The Kabul River, while having its origin in Afghanistan, has a primary tributary, the Konar River, which originates in Pakistan and enters Afghanistan near Barikot-Arandu. The Kabul River then re-enters Pakistan near Laalpur, Afghanistan making it a true transboundary river. The catastrophic flood events due to major snowmelt events in the Hindu Kush mountains occur every other year, inundating many major urban centers. This study investigates the flood risk under 30 climate and dam management scenarios to assess opportunities for transboundary water management strategy in the Kabul River Basin (KRB). The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) is a watershed-scale hydraulic modeling tool that was employed to forecast peak flows to characterize flood inundation areas using the river flood routing modelling tool Hydrologic Engineering Center—Analysis System -HEC-RAS for the Nowshera region. This study shows how integrated transboundary water management in the KRB can play a vital catalyst role with significant socio-economic benefits for both nations. The study proposes a KRB-specific agreement, where flood risk management is a significant driver that can bring both countries to work together under the Equitable Water Resource Utilization Doctrine to save lives in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. The findings show that flood mitigation relying on collaborative efforts for both upstream and downstream riparian states is highly desirable.
De Garengeot’s Hernia Treated With a Hybrid Approach: A Case Report
Authors: Alkashty Mohamed , Dickinson Ben , Tebala Giovanni D.
Published: May 2021

De Garengeot’s hernia happens when an inflamed or ischemic appendix is located within an incarcerated femoral hernia. We hereby report a case of De Garengeot’s hernia treated with a combined open and laparoscopic approach. An 80-year-old male presented to the emergency department with a 1-day history of a tender right inguinal mass. A computed tomography scan revealed a direct right inguinal hernia containing an incarcerated appendix. At surgery, the diagnosis of a strangulated appendix within a femoral hernia was made. To avoid a wide disruption of the right groin region, the ischemic appendix was reduced into the abdomen and removed laparoscopically. The femoral defect was treated by open plug repair. De Garengeot’s hernia may represent a surgical challenge. A combined open and laparoscopic approach is a good option in these cases.
Self-medication practice and associated factors among adults in Wolaita Soddo town, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Mathewos Tamirat , Daka Kassa , Bitew Shimelis , Daka Deresse
Published: May 2021

Background: Self-medication is the selection and use of medicines by individuals to treat their self-recognized illnesses or symptoms. Self-medication can decrease costs and enable health professionals to concentrate on more serious health problems.

Aim: To assess self-medication practice and associated factors among adults in Wolaita Soddo town, Southern Ethiopia, 2017.

Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 30 to October 30, 2017. A multi-stage sampling technique of drug retail outlets in Wolaita Soddo town was employed to identify 623 individuals that came to buy drugs in the past three months. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire.

Results: About 33.7% of the respondents had practiced self-medication in the past 3 months. Multivariate analysis revealed that female sex (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.22, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.47–3.36), low income (AOR = 3.95, 95% CI: 2.32–6.73) and higher educational level (AOR = 5.79, 95% CI: 2.47–13.58) were the independent factors significantly affecting the practice of self-medication with drugs. Headache/fever (32.4%), respiratory tract infections (31.4%) and gastrointestinal diseases (16.2%) were the most frequently reported illnesses or symptoms of illnesses that prompted self-medication of study participants.

Conclusion: Health education campaigns, strict legislations on dispensing drugs from private pharmacies, and improving accessibility and affordability of health care are among the important interventions required to change people’s health-seeking behavior and prevent the potential risks of self-medication.
Comprehensive Assessment of Fluid Status by Point-of-Care Ultrasonography
Authors: Argaiz Eduardo R. , Koratala Abhilash , Reisinger Nathaniel
Published: May 2021

The management of complex fluid and electrolyte disorders is central to the practice of nephrologists. The sensitivity of physical examination alone to determine fluid status is limited, precluding accurate clinical decision making. Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) is emerging as a valuable, noninvasive, bedside diagnostic tool for objective evaluation of physiologic and hemodynamic parameters related to fluid status, tolerance, and responsiveness. Rapid bedside sonographic evaluation can obtain qualitative data on cardiac function and quantitative data on pulmonary congestion. Advanced POCUS, including goal-directed Doppler echocardiography, provides additional quantitative information, including flow velocities and pressures across the cardiac structures. Recently, abnormal Doppler flow patterns in abdominal organs secondary to increased right atrial pressure have been linked to congestive organ damage, adding another component to the hemodynamic assessment. Integrating POCUS findings with clinical and laboratory data can further elucidate a patient’s hemodynamic status. This drives decisions regarding crystalloid administration or, conversely, diuresis or ultrafiltration and allows tailored therapy for individual patients. In this article, we provide an overview of the focused assessment of cardiovascular function and pulmonary and venous congestion using POCUS and review relevant literature.
Certain Properties of a Generalized Class of Analytic Functions Involving Some Convolution Operator
Authors: Malik Faroze Ahmad , Dar Nusrat Ahmed , Sharma Chitaranjan
Published: May 2021

We use the concept of convolution to introduce and study the properties of a unified family
$\mathcal{TUM}_\gamma(g,b,k,\alpha)$,
$(0\leq\gamma\leq1,\,k\geq0)$,
consisting of uniformly $k$-starlike and $k$-convex functions of
complex order $b\in\mathbb{C}\setminus\{0\}$
and type $\alpha\in[0,1)$.
The family $\mathcal{TUM}_\gamma(g,b,k,\alpha)$ is a generalization of several other families of analytic functions available in literature.
Apart from discussing the coefficient bounds, sharp radii estimates, extreme points and the subordination theorem for this family, we settle down the Silverman's conjecture for integral means inequality. Moreover, invariance of this family under certain well-known integral operators is also established in this paper. Some previously known results are obtained as special cases.
Dialogue Journal Writing: Effects on the Quality of EFL learners’ Descriptive Writing
Authors: Valizadeh Mohammadreza
Published: May 2021

This study investigated the effect of dialogue journal writing on descriptive writing performance of English as Foreign Language (EFL) learners in Turkey. Participants were 53 EFL upper-intermediate learners who were selected based on their performance on Oxford Quick Placement Test and assigned randomly to experimental and control groups. Whereas the members in the control group participated in descriptive writing pre and post-tests only, the participants in the experimental group were required to write two journals a week for one month (four weeks) in the period between the pre- and post-tests. The teacher-researcher only tried to model the correct usage of the error in her responses, but did not explicitly correct the errors or did not provide any type of explicit feedback. Results of independent sample t-test showed a significant difference between the experimental and control group regarding the overall descriptive writing performance.
University Students’ Perceptions About Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Keleş Pınar Ural , Aydın Suleyman
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to determine the perceptions of university students about the concept of artificial intelligence. The sample of the research carried out with the screening method consists of 130 fourth grade students studying in the Faculty of Education, Faculty of Arts and Sciences and Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences of a university in Eastern Anatolia region in 2018-2019 academic year. 42 students from Faculty of Education, 47 from Faculty of Arts and Sciences and 41 from Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences participated in the study. The sample of the study was determined by snowball sampling method. Independent Word Association Test was used as data collection tool. Content analysis was used for data analysis. As a result of the study, it was determined that artificial intelligence perceptions of the students of the Faculty of Education were richer than the students of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Another important result determined in the study is that the negative perceptions of all sample groups about artificial intelligence concept are more significant than positive perceptions. Giving lectures to university students about current artificial intelligence applications and usage in their fields are among the suggestions of the study.
Correlation between Metadiscourse, Lexical Complexity, Readability and Writing Performance in EFL University Students’ Research-based Essays
Authors: Erarslan Ali
Published: May 2021

Metadiscourse is a tool for writers to guide and interact with readers through texts. Yet in most student texts, one of the points lacking is the interaction between writers and readers. In this study, frequency and type of interactive and interactional metadiscourse features were explored via students’ research-based essays based on Hyland’s metadiscourse taxonomy. Additionally, the students’ English Vocabulary Profile (EVP), lexical diversity, lexical density, and readability features of the texts in the corpus were scrutinized, which serve as an indicator of writing quality. Finally, the relationship of metadiscourse use with students’ writing performance, lexical diversity, lexical density, and readability was explored through statistical measures. Findings show that following explicit metadiscourse instruction, students’ research-based essays included more interactive metadiscourse than interactional metadiscourse, indicating that the students were dealing with more textual features, such as coherence, than interactional metadiscourse. Apart from findings regarding EVP such as lexical diversity, lexical density, and readability features, a positive relationship was explored between metadiscourse use and writing performance, lexical components, and textual features. It is concluded that metadiscourse should be integrated into the writing syllabus since it has a positive relationship with students’ use of academic vocabulary in their essays.
Analisis Hubungan Kepadatan Penduduk dengan Pola Penyebaran COVID-19 Provinsi DKI Jakarta menggunakan Regresi Robust
Authors: Edriani Tiara Shofi , Rahmadani Anisa , Noor Dear Michiko Mutiara
Published: May 2021

COVID-19 pandemic have been spread around the world since the first outbreak on Desember 2019 in Wuhan, China. DKI Jakarta as one of the highest population density among 34 provinces in Indonesia, has become an endemic area of COVID-19 with the rate of new cases show some fluctuation for each month along 2020. This is a secondary data research which drawn from Health Ministry of Indonesia as well as Center of Statistics for DKI Jakarta. Focus and the scope of this paper is on analyzing the relation between new cases of COVID-19 with population density of Jakarta’s districts. Descriptive and inferential analysis that combined with Robust Regression Test are conducted due to some outliers data. This unbiased method shows a good regression model of spreading new positive cases. M-Estimator Robust Regression with Tukey Bisquare function,  shows the best result with the least Residual Standar Error (RSE), that is 0.411.  Analysis on statistical test for the chosen model shows that population density has significant impacts on outbreak pattern of COVID-19 in Jakarta. But mobilities and interactions betweeen citizens has also give a great impact.
MODEL POPULASI NYAMUK DENGAN MELIBATKAN FAKTOR KONTROL DAN VARIASI MUSIM
Authors: Humairoh Mia Siti
Published: May 2021

Nyamuk merupakan serangga yang mengalami metamorfosis sempurna, dimuali dari  telur, pupa, larva (fase akuatik) hingga nyamuk dewasa (fase nonakuatik). Proses perkembangbiakan nyamuk, khususnya pada fase akuatik (air sebagai habitatnya) sangat dipengaruhi oleh kondisi cuaca. Model matematik dibangun untuk mengetaui dinamika populasi nyamuk dengan melibatkan faktor cuaca. Penggunaan temephos dan fumigasi juga dilibatkan dalam konstuksi model sebagai kontrol terhadap pertumbuhan nyamuk. Analisis kestabilan pada titik kesetimbangan disajikan untuk mengetahui kondisi populasi nyamuk seiring berjalannya waktu. Dari hasil simulasi diperoleh bahwa pengaruh musim mengakibatkan dinamika populasi larva dan nyamuk berosilasi setiap tahunnya dengan puncak pertumbuhan terjadi pada musim hujan. Disamping itu, penggunaan  temephos da fumigasi secara signifikan dapat mengurangi jumlah  populasi dari larva dan nyamuk.
Green Synthesis ZnO Nanoparticles Using Rinds Extract of Sapindus rarak DC
Authors: Yanti Demi Dama , Maryanti Evi
Published: May 2021

The green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles was carried out using a natural capping agent, Sapindus rarak DC rinds extract at low-temperature calcination and environmentally friendly solvent. The mixture of Zn(CH3COO)2, NaOH, and rinds extract was sonicated for 4 h at room temperature. The calcination was carried out at low temperature, 95oC for 8 h, and resulted in pale brown powder. XRD and SEM were used to confirm the structure and to analyze the morphology of ZnO nanoparticles respectively. XRD pattern of ZnO nanoparticles was corresponding to JDCPS card no 36-1451 with hexagonal structure. The average crystal size of ZnO nanoparticles was calculated using the scherrer equation and the average size was about 35.8 nm. From this study, the extract of the rind of Sapindus rarak DC was found to be a natural capping agent to synthesis ZnO nanoparticles because Sapindus rarak DC contain a pythochemical compound to limit the interaction between crystal seeds.
Deteksi Golongan Senyawa Ekstrak Kasar Metabolit Ekstrasel Mikroalga Laut Spirulina sp. Sebagai Agen Antioksidan
Authors: Anggraini Yulistia , Winahyu Diah Astika
Published: May 2021

Microalgae excrete antioxidant compounds as a defense system to protect themselves from the danger of ultraviolet rays. These compounds also can be used as the organic materials of cosmetics or medicines. This study aimed to determine the antioxidant activity of marine microalgal extracellular metabolite extract of Spirulina sp.. Extracellular metabolites were extracted from the residual media filtrate from the harvesting. The qualitative antioxidant test’s results using the thin-layer chromatography technique and 2,2-diphenylpycrilhydrazil (DPPH) reagent showed antioxidant activity. Moreover, the component identification using ninhydrin and Dragendorff reagent in thin layer chromatography test showed alkaloid and peptide compounds. To support the results, the identification using infrared spectrum analysis showed the peaks at 1117 cm-1 (C-N and C-C stretching), 1458 cm-1 (C-H bending of methyl group), 1635 cm-1 (C=O stretching of amide group), and 3454 cm-1 (N-H stretching of amine and amide groups).
Sobre la publicidad de los medicamentos: legislación
Authors: Del Castillo-Rodríguez Carlos , Enríquez-Fernández Silvia
Published: May 2021

La publicidad de los medicamentos está sometida a un régimen especial justificado por los posibles efectos negativos que su práctica puede originar en la sociedad actual y consecuentemente en la salud pública. Las principales normas específicas que regulan el tema objeto de estudio son, entre otros, el Real Decreto Legislativo 1/2015, de 24 de julio, por el que se aprueba el texto refundido de la Ley de garantías y uso racional de los medicamentos y productos sanitarios y el Real Decreto 1416/1994, de 25 de junio, por el que se regula la publicidad de los medicamentos de uso humano. En éstas se dispone tanto las características de la publicidad como el control al que estará sometido y las infracciones imponibles en caso de incumplimiento.
Arsenic and Cadmium Risk Assessment in a Domestic Wastewater Irrigated Area Using Samples of Water, Soil and Forages as Indicators
Authors: Khan Zafar Iqbal , Ahmad Kafeel , Batool Musarrat , Malik Ifra Saleem , Bashir Humayun , Munir Mudasra , Ashfaq Asma , Akhter Pervaiz , Nazar Sonaina , Akhtar Mubeen , Akhtar Mumtaz , Nadeem Muhammad , Awan Muhammad Umar Farooq
Published: May 2021

The recent research was performed to investigate the toxicity of As and Cd in suburban area of Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan. Water, soil and forage samples were collected for this purpose in summer and winter season and analysis was done via wet digestion to determine the concentration of selected heavy metals. The mean concentration of As and Cd in water was found above the permissible maximum limit. Mean concentration of Cd in soil and forages was lower than the allowed limit whereas As which was higher than the PML in forages. So, continuous use of domestic wastewater for irrigation purpose should be avoided in order to secure the area from any hazard in near future.
Reflections from Teaching Basic Adult Literacy
Authors: Greenbrerg Daphne , Einarson Inga , Miller Christine , Rodgerson Devi , Lacerenza Lea , Lovett Maureen
Published: May 2021

Daphne Greenberg, Inga Einarson, Christine Miller, Devi Rodgerson, Lea Lacerenza, and Maureen W. Lovett
Partisipasi Masyarakat dalam Program Penyediaan Air Minum dan Sanitasi Berbasis Masyarakat (PAMSIMAS) di Kabupaten Aceh Jaya
Authors: Sufriadi Dedi , Zakaria
Published: May 2021

Upaya mengatasi masalah ketersediaan air bersih dan peningkatan sanitasi masyarakat di Indonesia yaitu dengan melibatkan peran serta masyarakat dalam perencanaan, pelaksanaan dan pemeliharaan sarana dan prasara air bersih dan sanitasi yang ada di masyarakat. Pengabdian ini  bertujuan untuk menganalisis bentuk dan faktor-faktor yang mendukung dan menghambat partisipasi masyarakat dalam Program PAMSIMAS serta manfaat lingkungan wilayah yang mendapatkan Program PAMSIMAS di Desa Lhok Geulumpang Kabupaten Aceh Jaya. Penelitian menggunakan analisis deskriptif kualitatif. Untuk melihat perencanaan partisipasi masyarakat dalam Program PAMSIMAS Desa Lhok Geulumpang Kabupaten Aceh Jaya dilakukan dengan menggunakan analisis SWOT yang menggambarkan kondisi internal dan eksternal kegiatan tersebut. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa bentuk partisipasi masyarakat pada perencanaan di Desa Lhok Geulumpang berupa sumbangan pikiran dalam bentuk usulan, saran dan kritik, saat pelaksanaan berupa incash (uang) dan inkind (kontribusi swadaya masyarakat/gotong royong). Peran tokoh masyarakat, Pemda dan Tim Fasilitator Masyarakat (TFM) mempengaruhi seluruh partisipasi masyarakat. Manfaat lingkungan yang diperoleh oleh wilayah yang mendapatkan  Program PAMSIMAS masuk kedalam  aspek  keberlanjutan sarana air minum dan sanitasi yang terlihat melalui perubahan perilaku hidup bersih dan sehat. Dari penelitian yang dilakukan diperoleh rekomendasi peran stakeholder diperlukan untuk mengajak masyarakat Desa Lhok Geulumpang menghadiri dan memberikan usulan setiap pertemuan, pendekatan pembangunan model pemberdayaan masyarakat Program PAMSIMAS dapat ditiru dan dikembangkan untuk program pembangunan prasarana di lokasi lain, dukungan Pemerintah Daerah perlu dalam keberlanjutan diharapkan terus berjalan dan berkelanjutan, sehingga prasarana yang terbangun dapat terpelihara dan berfungsi.