bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transitional Pathways towards Achieving a Circular Economy in the Water, Energy, and Food Sectors
Authors: Naidoo Dhesigen , Nhamo Luxon , Lottering Shenelle , Mpandeli Sylvester , Liphadzi Stanley , Modi Albert T. , Trois Cristina , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe
Published: September 2021

Achieving sustainable socio-economic development requires approaches that enhance resource use efficiencies and can address current cross-sectoral challenges in an integrated manner. Existing evidence suggests an urgent need for polycentric and transformative approaches, as global and local systems have come under strain. This study conducted a systematic literature review at the global level to assess the progress made towards achieving a circular economy between 2010 and 2020, a period covering the formulation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the initial five years of their implementation. The focus was on the potential of improved water and energy use efficiency, linking them to food production within the context of a circular economy. Identifying successes, opportunities, challenges, and pathways towards a circular economy from the literature review facilitated developing a conceptual framework to guide strategic policy formulations towards a more sustainable economy. A combination of transformative approaches is analysed in an integrated way in response to the 2030 global agenda on sustainable development. Thus, the study is informed by the initiatives to attain SDGs and mitigating negative environmental impacts due to waste and pollution. The premise is to enhance transformational change as a catalyst for employment creation and the attainment of a green economy while reducing waste. Transformative approaches have been identified to provide pathways towards global climate targets and protection of the environment from further degradation. They are a catalyst to achieve SDG 12 on ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Preserving Community’s Environmental Interests in a Meta-Ocean Governance Framework towards Sustainable Development Goal 14: A Mechanism of Promoting Coordination between Institutions Responsible for Curbing Marine Pollution
Authors: Zulfiqar Khadija , Butt M Jahanzeb
Published: September 2021

The United Nations has recently recognised the global community’s environmental interests in ocean governance through the Sustainable Development Goal 14. The marine environmental protection targets stand in need of rejuvenating international environmental law, which fosters interconnection between oceans, climate, and terrestrial ecosystems. The existing literature on this aspect of ocean governance, however, is segregated and lacks an ecosystem-based approach. Therefore, a comprehensive review of the literature on ocean governance with an ecosystem-based approach becomes essential and is conducted through this research. This research has proposed that ocean governance programmes and plans need to be re-arranged under established legal frameworks at national and regional levels. Such a challenge can be addressed by taking the elements of governance provided by the list of targets of sustainable development goals. This research has facilitated the given hypothesis via a meta-ocean-governance framework that incorporates a deliberate regional monitoring system, intergovernmental review, capacity building techniques, national action through strong institutions, scientific decision making, and policy coherence. The idea is to fit the conceptualisation of ocean governance under international environmental law in the existing initiatives within a box of institutions to coordinate and encourage an ecosystem-based approach.
Sustainable Production and Consumption of Food. Mise-en-Place Circular Economy Policies and Waste Management Practices in Tourism Cities
Authors: Camilleri Mark Anthony
Published: September 2021

Although previous researchers have explored the circular economy practices of different businesses in various contexts, currently, there are still a few contributions that are focused on the sustainable preparation and consumption of food in the tourism and hospitality industry context. Hence, this paper sheds light on case studies from hotels, restaurants, and cafes that are located in urban tourist destinations. This research suggests that catering businesses can implement a number of responsible initiatives by introducing preventative measures and recycling practices to curb food loss and the generation of waste. In conclusion, this contribution implies that there is scope for regulatory authorities and policymakers to encourage hospitality practitioners to engage in circular economy approaches and to incentivize them to minimize food waste in tourism cities.
A Post-Corona Perspective for Smart Cities: ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go?’
Authors: Sassen Saskia , Kourtit Karima
Published: September 2021

This exploratory essay aims to provide a reflection on the possible implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for urban development and to sketch a plausible picture of the urban future. It serves as an introductory contribution to the Special Issue of this journal on ‘happy and healthy cities’, with particular emphasis on the implications of COVID-19 in pluriform cities. There is no doubt that contemporary cities are growing, and have become more dynamic and crowded. The more people, the bigger the challenges are to manage urban growth and to cope with—and control—density frictions, such as pandemics (e.g., COVID-19). Cities have the task to satisfy the essential needs of many heterogeneous people and to develop appropriate people-based strategies in order to make or keep people happy and healthy. The current COVID-19 disaster is a real urban challenge. The deployment of smart cities’ strategies and the use of digital technology tools in order to capture and provide intelligent internal and external online information and communication opportunities may help cities—in active partnership with their residents (‘smart citizens’ voice’)—to manage shocks and disruptions in the urban system. Clearly, cities are dynamic and adaptive organisms with a high resilience capacity. A key question addressed in this paper is whether urban inhabitants may be inclined to move out of the city due to human health threats, or whether intelligent digital technology tools will be able to overcome the current challenges to the ‘urban way of life’. The paper argues that modern information and communication technology offers a range of opportunities for a healthy city life, so that the COVID-19 pandemic will most likely not lead to a massive demographic outflow from urban agglomerations to less densely populated areas in particular rural areas. Instead, what is called the ‘corona crisis’ may cause just a ripple in the permanent dynamic evolution of cities.
Planifilum fulgidum Is the Dominant Functional Microorganism in Compost Containing Spent Mushroom Substrate
Authors: Zhang Hong , Wang Wenying , Li Zaixue , Yang Chuanlun , Liang Shuang , Wang Lushan
Published: September 2021

The extensive accumulation of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) owing to the large-scale production of edible fungi is causing environmental problems that cannot be ignored. Co-composting is a promising method for agricultural and animal husbandry waste disposal. In this study, the composition and function of microbial communities in the process of cattle manure–maize straw composting with SMS addition were compared through an integrated meta-omics approach. The results showed that irrespective of SMS addition, the predominant fungi were Ascomycota, while the dominant bacteria were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. High temperature promoted the evolution from Gram-negative bacteria (Bacteroides, Proteobacteria) to Gram-positive bacteria (Firmicutes, Actinomycetes). The composting process was accelerated by SMS addition, and the substrate was effectively degraded in 14 days. Metaproteomics results showed that the dominant microorganism, Planifilum fulgidum, secreted large amounts of S8, M17, and M32 proteases that could degrade macromolecular protein substrates in the presence of SMS. Planifilum fulgidum, along with Thermobifida fusca and Melanocarpus albomyces, synergistically degraded hemicellulose, cellulose, and protein. In addition, the dominant microorganisms related to the initial raw materials such as Pichia, Lactobacillus in the microbial agent and Hypsizygus in SMS could not adapt to the high-temperature environment (>60 °C) and were replaced by thermophilic bacteria after 5 days of composting.
Intelligent Control System of Internal Expansion over Bending and Calibration (IEOBC) Process for Large Pipe Ends
Authors: Zhai Ruixue , Jiao Zhaoxu , Han Yashuai , Zhao Jun , Yu Gaochao
Published: September 2021

The flattening and asymmetry of a pipe end section seriously affects the welding quality between pipes, therefore the calibration process for pipe end to improve roundness is essential. Because the calibration for a pipe end involves local elastic-plastic deformation for the end effect, it is still difficult to establish an accurate theoretical model. The reasonable and intelligent control method is nevertheless an effective means to improve the production efficiency. In this paper, an internal expansion over bending and calibration (IEOBC) process is introduced. According to the characteristics of the process, the structure of the mobile intelligent calibration machine for large pipe ends is designed, and the intelligent control hardware system of the machine is built. Based on the LabVIEW software platform, an intelligent control software system for the IEOBC process is developed. A three-step control strategy is combined with pipe size detection and ovality recognition. The intelligent prediction and execution of the calibration process parameters are realized. The experimental results show that the intelligent control system has good stability and accuracy, and the ovality can be controlled within 0.5%.
Special Issue: “Symmetries in Quantum Mechanics”
Authors: Maclay G. Jordan
Published: September 2021

This Special Issue “Symmetries in Quantum Mechanics” describes research using two of the most fundamental probes we have in nature [...]
A New Generation of Neutrino Cross Section Experiments: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Branca Antonio , Brunetti Giulia , Longhin Andrea , Martini Marco , Pupilli Fabio , Terranova Francesco
Published: September 2021

Our knowledge of neutrino cross sections at the GeV scale, instrumental to test CP symmetry violation in the leptonic sector, has grown substantially in the last two decades. Still, their precision and understanding are far from the standard needed in contemporary neutrino physics. Nowadays, the knowledge of the neutrino cross section at O(10%) causes the main systematic uncertainty in oscillation experiments and jeopardizes their physics reach. In this paper, we envision the opportunities for a new generation of cross section experiments to be run in parallel with DUNE and HyperKamiokande. We identify the most prominent physics goals by looking at the theory and experimental limitations of the previous generation of experiments. We highlight the priorities in the theoretical understanding of GeV cross sections and the experimental challenges of this new generation of facilities.
Accounting Information Systems: Scientific Production and Trends in Research
Authors: Monteiro Albertina , Cepêda Catarina
Published: September 2021

This paper aims to provide a state-of-the-art overview in research on Accounting Information Systems, analyzing scientific production characteristics and identifying this topic research trends. A quantitative bibliometric analysis is conducted on papers specifically focused on Accounting Information Systems, published in journals indexed on Web of Science database. The research methodology and design were based on an inductive approach of a set of studies with the objective of theoretical development in the field of investigation. We found 144 articles on this subject. The first article was published in 1973. However, most papers were published during the last 10 years although the highest interest in Accounting Information Systems study among scholars concentrates on a short period, which is around 2020. We identify three research topics, as the following research trends: (1) the Accounting Information System impact in the organization (e.g., performance, innovation, reorganization of activities, information reporting); (2) the Accounting Information System Construction, (3) the importance of implementation of the Accounting Information System in small and medium-sized enterprises and Public-Sector; and (4) the factors that contribute to Accounting Information System efficiency/quality. These themes fit into a theoretical framework, in which agency and contingency theory are highlighted. In addition, by promoting the analysis of strict bibliometric tools, we also identified authors, journals, organizations and countries/regions that contributed most to the development of the investigation in this research topic. The results of this research add insights to the existing literature and serve as a guide for future research in Accounting Information Systems context, as well as help organizations, public, private and governments to establish their strategies in this area.
Disrupting Audio Event Detection Deep Neural Networks with White Noise
Authors: dos Santos Rodrigo , Kassetty Ashwitha , Nilizadeh Shirin
Published: September 2021

Audio event detection (AED) systems can leverage the power of specialized algorithms for detecting the presence of a specific sound of interest within audio captured from the environment. More recent approaches rely on deep learning algorithms, such as convolutional neural networks and convolutional recurrent neural networks. Given these conditions, it is important to assess how vulnerable these systems can be to attacks. As such, we develop AED-suited convolutional neural networks and convolutional recurrent neural networks, and attack them next with white noise disturbances, conceived to be simple and straightforward to be implemented and employed, even by non-tech savvy attackers. We develop this work under a safety-oriented scenario (AED systems for safety-related sounds, such as gunshots), and we show that an attacker can use such disturbances to avoid detection by up to 100 percent success. Prior work has shown that attackers can mislead image classification tasks; however, this work focuses on attacks against AED systems by tampering with their audio rather than image components. This work brings awareness to the designers and manufacturers of AED systems, as these solutions are vulnerable, yet may be trusted by individuals and families.
Epitope-Level Matching—A Review of the Novel Concept of Eplets in Transplant Histocompatibility
Authors: Renaldo André , Roa-Bautista Adriel , González-López Elena , López-Hoyos Marcos , San Segundo David
Published: September 2021

The development of de novo donor-specific antibodies is related to the poor matching of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) between donor and recipient, which leads to dismal clinical outcomes and graft loss. However, new approaches that stratify the risks of long-term graft failure in solid organ transplantation have emerged, changing the paradigm of HLA compatibility. In addition, advances in software development have given rise to a new structurally based algorithm known as HLA Matchmaker, which determines compatibility at the epitope rather than the antigen level. Although this technique still has limitations, plenty of research maintains that this assessment represents a more complete and detailed definition of HLA compatibility. This review summarizes recent aspects of eplet mismatches, highlighting the most recent advances and future research directions.
10-Year Clinical, Functional, and X-ray Follow-Up Evaluation of a Novel Posterior Percutaneous Screw-Rod Instrumentation Technique for Single-Level Pyogenic Spondylodiscitis
Authors: Pola Enrico , Nasto Luigi Aurelio , Cipolloni Valerio , Colangelo Debora , Leone Antonio , Schiavone Panni Alfredo
Published: September 2021

Medical treatment with antibiotic therapy remains the mainstay of treatment for pyogenic spondylodiscitis (PS). Nevertheless, orthopaedic treatment is also very important in relieving pain, preventing neurological damage, and avoiding development of spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis, kyphosis) due to spinal instability. Rigid thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) bracing is often needed in patients with PS, and average duration of treatment of 3 to 4 months. However, TLSO bracing can be poorly tolerated and limit ability of the patient to go back to a normal life. In 2004 our group developed an alternative surgical treatment to TLSO bracing by percutaneous posterior screw-rod bridge instrumentation of the infected level. This treatment allows early and free mobilization of the patients and is associated with faster recovery, lower pain scores and improved quality of life as previously reported. Herein, we report the clinical outcome of the first 3 patients who have completed the 10 years follow-up mark after the procedure. A case report is also described and details of the procedure are provided.
Are Malaria Risk Factors Based on Gender? A Mixed-Methods Survey in an Urban Setting in Ghana
Authors: Quaresima Virginia , Agbenyega Tsiri , Oppong Bismark , Awunyo Julia Ann D. A. , Adu Adomah Priscilla , Enty Eunice , Donato Francesco , Castelli Francesco
Published: September 2021

Malaria still represents one of the most debilitating and deadly diseases in the world. It has been suggested that malaria has different impacts on women and men due to both social and biological factors. A gender perspective is therefore important to understand how to eliminate malaria. This study aimed to investigate malaria from a gender perspective in a non-for-profit private health facility, HopeXchange Medical Centre, based in Kumasi (Ghana). A sequential mixed-methods design, comprising quantitative and qualitative methods, was used. This study found low ownership (40%) and use (19%) of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). Most malaria cases were women (62%), who were less educated and had more external risk factors associated with infection. Our study reported a trend of preferring malaria self-medication at home, which was practiced mostly by men (43%). Our data suggest that women are more likely to be exposed to malaria infections than men, especially due to their prolonged exposure to mosquito bites during the most dangerous hours. Our study highlighted the need for future malaria control policies to be more focused on social and behavioral aspects and from a gender perspective.
Co-Homology of Differential Forms and Feynman Diagrams
Authors: Cacciatori Sergio Luigi , Conti Maria , Trevisan Simone
Published: September 2021

In the present review we provide an extensive analysis of the intertwinement between Feynman integrals and cohomology theories in light of recent developments. Feynman integrals enter in several perturbative methods for solving non-linear PDE, starting from Quantum Field Theories and including General Relativity and Condensed Matter Physics. Precision calculations involve several loop integrals and an onec strategy to address, which is to bring them back in terms of linear combinations of a complete set of integrals (the master integrals). In this sense Feynman integrals can be thought as defining a sort of vector space to be decomposed in term of a basis. Such a task may be simpler if the vector space is endowed with a scalar product. Recently, it has been discovered that, if these spaces are interpreted in terms of twisted cohomology, the role of a scalar product is played by intersection products. The present review is meant to provide the mathematical tools, usually familiar to mathematicians but often not in the standard baggage of physicists, such as singular, simplicial and intersection (co)homologies, and hodge structures, that are apt to restate this strategy on precise mathematical grounds. It is intended to be both an introduction for beginners interested in the topic, as well as a general reference providing helpful tools for tackling the several still-open problems.
Unique Tropism and Entry Mechanism of Mumps Virus
Authors: Kubota Marie , Hashiguchi Takao
Published: September 2021

Mumps virus (MuV) is an important human pathogen that causes parotitis, orchitis, oophoritis, meningitis, encephalitis, and sensorineural hearing loss. Although mumps is a vaccine-preventable disease, sporadic outbreaks have occurred worldwide, even in highly vaccinated populations. MuV not only causes systemic infection but also has a unique tropism to glandular tissues and the central nervous system. In general, tropism can be defined by multiple factors in the viral life cycle, including its entry, interaction with host factors, and host-cell immune responses. Although the underlying mechanisms of MuV tropism remain to be fully understood, recent studies on virus–host interactions have provided insights into viral pathogenesis. This review was aimed at summarizing the entry process of MuV by focusing on the glycan receptors, particularly the recently identified receptors with a trisaccharide core motif, and their interactions with the viral attachment proteins. Here, we describe the receptor structures, their distribution in the human body, and the recently identified host factors for MuV and analyze their relationship with MuV tropism.
The Splice of Life: Does RNA Processing Have a Role in HIV-1 Persistence?
Authors: Pasternak Alexander O. , Berkhout Ben
Published: September 2021

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) suppresses HIV-1 replication but does not eradicate the virus. Persistence of HIV-1 latent reservoirs in ART-treated individuals is considered the main obstacle to achieving an HIV-1 cure. However, these HIV-1 reservoirs are not transcriptionally silent, and viral transcripts can be detected in most ART-treated individuals. HIV-1 latency is regulated at the transcriptional and at multiple post-transcriptional levels. Here, we review recent insights into the possible contribution of viral RNA processing to the persistence of HIV-1 reservoirs, and discuss the clinical implications of persistence of viral RNA species in ART-treated individuals.
Enhancing Therapeutic Efficacy of Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus with MEK Inhibitor Trametinib in Some BRAF or KRAS-Mutated Colorectal or Lung Carcinoma Models
Authors: Zhou XuSha , Zhao Jing , Zhang Jian V. , Wu Yinglin , Wang Lei , Chen Xiaoqing , Ji Dongmei , Zhou Grace Guoying
Published: September 2021

Oncolytic virus (OV) as a promising therapeutic agent can selectively infect and kill tumor cells with naturally inherited or engineered properties. Considering the limitations of OVs monotherapy, combination therapy has been widely explored. MEK inhibitor (MEKi) Trametinib is an FDA-approved kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of tumors with BRAF V600E or V600K mutations. In this study, the oncolytic activity in vitro and anti-tumor therapeutic efficacy in vivo when combined with oHSV and MEKi Trametinib were investigated. We found: (1) Treatment with MEKi Trametinib augmented oHSV oncolytic activity in BRAF V600E-mutated tumor cells. (2) Combination treatment with oHSV and MEKi Trametinib enhanced virus replication mediated by down-regulation of STAT1 and PKR expression or phosphorylation in BRAF V600E-mutated tumor cells as well as BRAF wt/KRAS-mutated tumor cells. (3) A remarkably synergistic therapeutic efficacy was shown in vivo for BRAF wt/KRAS-mutated tumor models, when a combination of oHSV including PD-1 blockade and MEK inhibition. Collectively, these data provide some new insights for clinical development of combination therapy with oncolytic virus, MEK inhibition, and checkpoint blockade for BRAF or KRAS-mutated tumors.
Bulk Milk Tank Samples Are Suitable to Assess Circulation of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus in High Endemic Areas
Authors: Pautienius Arnoldas , Dudas Gytis , Simkute Evelina , Grigas Juozas , Zakiene Indre , Paulauskas Algimantas , Armonaite Austeja , Zienius Dainius , Slyzius Evaldas , Stankevicius Arunas
Published: September 2021

A reliable surveillance strategy of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is necessary to ensure adequate disease control measures. However, current approaches assessing geographical TBEV circulation are ineffective or have significant limitations. In this study we investigated a total of 1363 goat and 312 sheep bulk tank milk samples for the presence of TBEV. Samples were collected from systematically selected farms in Lithuania every 4–5 days from April to November in 2018 and 2019. To validate results, we additionally tested 2685 questing ticks collected in the vicinity of milk collection sites. We found 4.25% (95% CI 3.25–5.47) and 4.48% (95% CI 2.47–7.41) goat and sheep milk samples to be positive for TBEV, respectively. Furthermore, geographical distribution of TBEV in milk samples coincided with the known TBE endemic zone and was correlated with incidence of TBE in humans in 2019. When sampling time coincides, TBEV detection in milk samples is as good a method as via flagged ticks, however bulk milk samples can be easier to obtain more frequently and regularly than tick samples. The minimal infectious rate (MIR) in ticks was 0.34% (CI 95% 0.15–0.64). Therefore, our results confirm that testing milk serves as a valuable tool to investigate the spatial distribution of TBEV at higher resolution and lower cost.
A Novel Recombinant Virus-Like Particles Displaying B and T Cell Epitopes of Japanese Encephalitis Virus Offers Protective Immunity in Mice and Guinea Pigs
Authors: Anwar Muhammad Naveed , Jiang Chunying , Di Di , Zhang Junjie , Guo Shuang , Wang Xin , Hameed Muddassar , Wahaab Abdul , Shao Donghua , Li Zongjie , Liu Ke , Li Beibei , Qiu Yafeng , Ma Zhiyong , Wei Jianchao
Published: September 2021

Virus-like particles (VLPs) are non-replicative vectors for the delivery of heterologous epitopes and are considered one of the most potent inducers of cellular and humoral immune responses in mice and guinea pigs. In the present study, VLP-JEVe was constructed by the insertion of six Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) envelope protein epitopes into different surface loop regions of PPV VP2 by the substitution of specific amino acid sequences without altering the assembly of the virus; subsequently, the protective efficacy of this VLP-JEVe was evaluated against JEV challenge in mice and guinea pigs. Mice immunized with the VLP-JEVe antigen developed high titers of neutralizing antibodies and 100% protection against lethal JEV challenge. The neutralizing and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody responses were also induced in guinea pigs vaccinated with VLP-JEVe. In addition, immunization with VLP-JEVe in mice induced effective neutralizing antibodies and protective immunity against PPV (porcine parvovirus) challenge in guinea pigs. These studies suggest that VLP-JEVe produced as described here could be a potential candidate for vaccine development.
Factors Related to Caregiver Intentions to Vaccinate Their Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder against COVID-19 in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Ching-Shu , Hsiao Ray C. , Chen Yu-Min , Yen Cheng-Fang
Published: September 2021

The aims of this study were to examine the proportion of caregivers who were hesitant to vaccinate their children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the factors related to caregiver intentions to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. In total, 161 caregivers of children with ADHD were recruited in this study. The caregivers completed an online questionnaire to provide data regarding their intention to vaccinate their children against COVID-19, concerns about the effectiveness and safety of vaccines, unfavorable family attitudes toward vaccines, and children’s medication use for ADHD and comorbid psychopathology. The factors related to caregiver intentions to vaccinate their child were examined using linear regression analysis. The results indicated that 25.5% of caregivers were hesitant to vaccinate their children with ADHD, and 11.8% refused to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. The caregivers’ concerns about the safety of vaccines and children’s regular use of medication for ADHD were negatively associated with caregiver intentions to vaccinate, whereas the children’s comorbid conduct or oppositional defiant problems were positively associated with the caregiver intentions to vaccinate. An intervention that enhances caregiver intentions to vaccinate their children with ADHD against COVID-19 by addressing the related factors found in this study is warranted.
Plant-Based COVID-19 Vaccines: Current Status, Design, and Development Strategies of Candidate Vaccines
Authors: Maharjan Puna Maya , Choe Sunghwa
Published: September 2021

The prevalence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in its second year has led to massive global human and economic losses. The high transmission rate and the emergence of diverse SARS-CoV-2 variants demand rapid and effective approaches to preventing the spread, diagnosing on time, and treating affected people. Several COVID-19 vaccines are being developed using different production systems, including plants, which promises the production of cheap, safe, stable, and effective vaccines. The potential of a plant-based system for rapid production at a commercial scale and for a quick response to an infectious disease outbreak has been demonstrated by the marketing of carrot-cell-produced taliglucerase alfa (Elelyso) for Gaucher disease and tobacco-produced monoclonal antibodies (ZMapp) for the 2014 Ebola outbreak. Currently, two plant-based COVID-19 vaccine candidates, coronavirus virus-like particle (CoVLP) and Kentucky Bioprocessing (KBP)-201, are in clinical trials, and many more are in the preclinical stage. Interim phase 2 clinical trial results have revealed the high safety and efficacy of the CoVLP vaccine, with 10 times more neutralizing antibody responses compared to those present in a convalescent patient’s plasma. The clinical trial of the CoVLP vaccine could be concluded by the end of 2021, and the vaccine could be available for public immunization thereafter. This review encapsulates the efforts made in plant-based COVID-19 vaccine development, the strategies and technologies implemented, and the progress accomplished in clinical trials and preclinical studies so far.
Influence of Health Beliefs on COVID-19 Vaccination among Individuals with Cancer and Other Comorbidities in Puerto Rico
Authors: Rodriguez McClaren , López-Cepero Andrea , Ortiz-Martínez Ana P. , Fernández-Repollet Emma , Pérez Cynthia M.
Published: September 2021

Ethnic minority populations are more likely to suffer from chronic comorbidities, making them more susceptible to the poor health outcomes associated with COVID-19 infection. Therefore, ensuring COVID-19 vaccination among vulnerable populations is of utmost importance. We aimed to investigate health behaviors and perceptions of COVID-19 vaccination among adults self-reporting diagnosis of cancer and of other chronic comorbidities in Puerto Rico (PR). This secondary analysis used data from 1911 participants who completed an online survey from December 2020 to February 2021. The Health Belief Model was used to measure perceptions surrounding COVID-19 vaccination among individuals self-reporting diagnosis of cancer and of other chronic comorbidities, and healthy adults. Among study participants, 76% were female, 34% were 50 years or older, 5% self-reported cancer diagnosis, and 70% had other chronic comorbidities. Participants self-reporting a cancer diagnosis had two times higher odds of getting vaccinated than healthy individuals (95% CI: 1.00–4.30). Compared to healthy participants, those self-reporting being diagnosed with cancer and those with chronic conditions other than cancer had significantly higher perceived COVID-19 susceptibility and severity. Our findings elucidate the effect of disease status on health-related decision-making and highlights information needed to be included in education campaigns to increase vaccine uptake among ethnic minority populations.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Exosomes Derived from Feline Adipose Tissue Enhance the Effects of Anti-Inflammation Compared to Fibroblasts-Derived Exosomes
Authors: Sung Soo-Eun , Seo Min-Soo , Kang Kyung-Ku , Choi Joo-Hee , Lee Sijoon , Sung Minkyoung , Kim Kilsoo , Lee Gun Woo , Lim Ju-Hyeon , Yang Seung Yun , Yim Sang-Gu , Kim Seul-Ki , Park Sangbum , Kwon Young-Sam , Yun Sungho
Published: September 2021

Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) release extracellular vesicles such as exosomes, apoptotic bodies, and microparticles. In particular, exosomes are formed inside cells via multivesicular bodies (MVBs), thus their protein, DNA, and RNA content are similar to those of the parent cells. Exosome research is rapidly expanding, with an increase in the number of related publications observed in recent years; therefore, the function and application of MSC-derived exosomes could emerge as cell-free therapeutics. Exosomes have been isolated from feline AD-MSCs and feline fibroblast cell culture media using ultracentrifugation. Feline exosomes have been characterized by FACS, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy imaging. Moreover, cytokine levels were detected by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in exosomes and LPS-induced THP-1 macrophages. The size of the isolated exosomes was that of a typical exosome, i.e., approximately 150 nm, and they expressed tetraspanins CD9 and CD81. The anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 was increased in feline AD-MSC-derived exosomes. However, pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-8, IL-2, RANTES, and IFN-gamma were significantly decreased in feline AD-MSC-derived exosomes. This was the first demonstration that feline AD-MSC-derived exosomes enhance the inflammatory suppressive effects and have potential for the treatment of immune diseases or as an inflammation-inhibition therapy.
Prevalence of Reproductive Disorders including Mammary Tumors and Associated Mortality in Female Dogs
Authors: Beaudu-Lange Claire , Larrat Sylvain , Lange Emmanuel , Lecoq Kevin , Nguyen Frédérique
Published: September 2021

Female dogs, especially intact or neutered lately, are at increased risk for reproductive disorders including mammary tumors (MTs). This retrospective study evaluated the prevalence of reproductive pathology and associated mortality in a cohort of female dogs presented at a single veterinary clinic. The medical records of female dogs born in 2000–2003 were reviewed. The study included 599 cases, of which 293 were followed up until death. Causes of death were analyzed according to the spaying status. Among the 599 female dogs, 306 were intact (51%), 50 (8%) had been spayed before 2 years of age (ES, early spaying), and 243 (41%) after 2 years (LS, late spaying). During their lifetime, 79 dogs (13.2%) developed pyometra, and 160 (26.7%) a mammary tumor. Among the 293 dogs with complete follow-up, 103 (35.1%) had at least one MT during their lifetime, of which 53 (51.5%) died of their mammary cancer. Spayed (ES + LS) female dogs had a 4-fold decreased risk of dying from mammary cancer (OR = 0.23, 95% CI 0.11–0.47, p < 0.0001) compared to intact females. In this low-sterilization rate population, MTs developed in 35.1% of female dogs over their lifetime and was the cause of death in half of them.
Research on Coil Identification Algorithm of Wireless Power Transfer System Based on Magnetic Field Features
Authors: Wen Feng , Han Chen , Li Qiang , Chu Zhoujian , Zhao Wenhan , Wu Shuqi , Zhang Xiang , Pei Wenjie
Published: September 2021

In the practical application of wireless power transfer (WPT), the identification of the secondary coil and the analysis of the space magnetic field of the coil will affect the matching scheme of the coil, which will further affect the performance of energy transmission. At present, the establishment of the coil space magnetic field model mainly adopts the finite element method (FEM). The accuracy of the results is limited by the computer performance and the specific settings during calculation, which usually takes a long time. Additionally, it can only analyze and establish the space magnetic field of the coil with specific parameters. Especially when the coil structure and parameters change, it is difficult to quickly establish the spatial magnetic field. This paper presents a secondary side coil identification method of a wireless charging system based on the magnetic field cloud image characteristics. The image feature extraction algorithm is used to extract features of a certain height magnetic field cloud image of an unknown structure type coil obtained by FEM. Further, by matching with the characteristics of the magnetic field cloud image of the known coil, the identification of the unknown coil structure type is realized. The effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method is verified by an example. This algorithm is helpful to extract the characteristics of the coil space magnetic field, and can establish coil space magnetic field models with different structure types and different coil parameters combined with deep learning to guide the matching scheme of the primary and secondary coils, and realize efficient energy transmission.
Calendar Ageing Model for Li-Ion Batteries Using Transfer Learning Methods
Authors: Azkue Markel , Lucu Mattin , Martinez-Laserna Egoitz , Aizpuru Iosu
Published: September 2021

Getting accurate lifetime predictions for a particular cell chemistry remains a challenging process, largely dependent on time and cost-intensive experimental battery testing. This paper proposes a transfer learning (TL) method to develop LIB ageing models, which allow for the leveraging of experimental laboratory testing data previously obtained for a different cell technology. The TL method is implemented through Neural Networks models, using LiNiMnCoO2/C laboratory ageing data as a baseline model. The obtained TL model achieves an 1.01% overall error for a broad range of operating conditions, using for retraining only two experimental ageing tests of LiFePO4/C cells.
Longer withdrawal time is not associated with increased patient discomfort in colonoscopy: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Majima Kenichiro , Muraki Yosuke
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Withdrawal time of sufficient length is a quality indicator for colonoscopies. Nonetheless, whether extending the withdrawal time contributes to patient discomfort remains unknown. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between colonoscopy withdrawal time and patient discomfort.Methods: A cohort of consecutive patients who underwent colonoscopy at a single institution from October 2018 to January 2020 was retrospectively analyzed. Initially, the relationship between the mean withdrawal time for each colonoscopist in no-finding examinations and polyp detection rate was investigated in 2,043 patients. Subsequently, the primary outcome of association between withdrawal time and patient discomfort, as determined by patient questionnaire, was assessed for each examination in 481 patients from the initial cohort.Results: The mean withdrawal time was strongly correlated with polyp detection rate (correlation coefficient, 0.72; P<0.001). In contrast, longer withdrawal time was not associated with increased discomfort; however, there was a weak inverse correlation between patient discomfort and longer withdrawal time (correlation coefficient, –0.25; P<0.001). Similarly, multiple regression analysis adjusted for confounding variables revealed that longer withdrawal time was not associated with increased patient discomfort (regression coefficient, –0.04 for each 1-minute increase in the length of withdrawal time; P=0.45).Conclusion: This study showed for the first time that longer withdrawal times did not result in increased discomfort, indicating that withdrawal time can be extended to sufficient length for optimal patient examination and polyp detection.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Medical Device Reporting and Investigation
Authors: Pruitt Zoe , Boxley Christian , Krevat Seth , Sengupta Srijan , Ratwani Raj , Fong Allan
Published: September 2021

Introduction
The Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database houses medical device reports submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In May 2020, the FDA released guidance about medical device reporting during a pandemic, anticipating delays in reporting and investigating events involving medical devices.

Methods
We aimed to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted medical device reporting by analyzing reports in the MAUDE database that mention COVID-19.

Results
From the 816,470 reports submitted between January 1 and July 31, 2020, 3,500 (0.43%) included phrases related to COVID-19. Of these reports, 4.8% (167/3,500) described adverse events during COVID-19 patients’ treatment, and 90.3% (3,161 /3,500) described barriers manufacturers faced investigating malfunctioning devices during the pandemic. 4.9% (172/3,500) of reports were not related to COVID-19. Malfunctions were clinically significant in 85.8% (3,004/3,500) of reports.

Discussion
Reports indicate challenges some manufacturers had when investigating medical devices during the pandemic. The pandemic made investigating implants uniquely difficult, as restrictions to person-to-person contact limited the type of care patients could receive. Because full-scale investigations into malfunctioning devices may be difficult to perform during the pandemic, safety issues may go unaddressed and result in future harm to patients.

Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic and the myriad of healthcare, travel, and shipping challenges it created impacted how manufacturers reported and investigated medical devices. At the current time, it is unclear how manufacturers will address delayed clinical management of implant devices and other uninvestigated malfunctions after the pandemic and how this will impact patient safety.
An Improved Fuzzy Inventory Model Under Two Warehouses
Authors:   Department of ASH (Mathematics), B K Birla Institute of Engineering & Technology Pilani, Rajasthan, India, Malik A K , Garg Harish ,   School of Mathematics, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Deemed University Patiala-147004, Punjab, India
Published: September 2021

The objective of this work is to present an improved inventory system with fuzzy constraints dealing with two warehouses system-own and rented. In the present model, we analyze the system under the consideration of two warehouses and without shortages with the assumptions of the linear demand function (increasing function of time). Generally, in today’s business scenario for sessional products, some constraints like storage cost, deteriorating cost, and ordering cost change with their original values. Therefore, these constraints cannot be assumed to be constant in that situation. Depending on these facts that we handle these costs as a triangular fuzzy number and hence apply the signed distance technique to solve the corresponding problem. The key objective of this work is to determine the optimal inventory level, and inventory time schedule to a minimum of the whole inventory cost. The proposed model is demonstrated with two numerical examples to observe the behavior of constraints with system cost and compare their performance with and without fuzzy environment.
IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON EUROPEAN AND TURKEY AIR TRAFFIC NETWORKS
Authors: TUNCAL Arif , USLU Suat , DURSUN Erdal
Published: September 2021

Covid-19, which was defined as a result of research conducted in a group of patients developing respiratory symptoms in late December 2019 in Wuhan province of China, spread to other countries in a very short time by infecting from people to people. On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the “International Public Health Emergency” due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Travel restrictions have been imposed by countries to prevent the pandemic. With these restrictions, air traffic has come to a halt, only health, humanitarian, military, repatriation and cargo flights have been carried out. Due to the Covid-19, more than 6 million traffic losses occurred in the European air traffic network. There were 0.2 million flight losses in the 9/11 attacks and 0.8 million flight losses in the great financial crisis. It is not known how long the recovery will take to reach traffic data in 2019. In this study, the impact of Covid-19 on the European and Turkey air traffic networks in 2020 was analyzed compared to the 2019 data. Within the scope of forecasts published by aviation authorities, assessments regarding the recovery process are also included. It is predicted that the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the air traffic networks will not be compensated for a long time in line with current data and predictions for the pandemic.
63rd ISI World Statistical Congress: New Trends in Global Statistics
Authors: Zarova E. V.
Published: September 2021

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Regional Seminar on Migration Statistics for CIS Countries
Authors: Chudinovskikh O. S.
Published: September 2021

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Governing-by-the-Numbers / Statistical Governance: Reﬂections on the Future of Ofcial Statistics in a Digital and Globalised Society
Authors: Radermacher W. J.
Published: September 2021

The growing importance of statistical evidence, data and information for political decisions is reﬂected in the handy and popular formulation ’Data for Policy’ (D4P). Under this cover, well-known guiding themes, such as the modernisation of the public sector, or evidence-informed policy-making, are led to new solutions with new technologies and infnitely rich data sources. Data for Policy means more to ofcial statistics than just new data, techniques and methods. It is not least a matter of securing an important function and position for ofcial statistics in the Policy for Data of the future. In order to justify this position, it is necessary to have a clear understanding of the tasks of ofcial statistics for the functioning of (democratic) societies, with a view to how these tasks have to be reinterpreted under changing conditions (above all because of digitisation and globalisation).