bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entropy-Based Transit Tour Synthesis Using Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Moreno-Palacio Diana P. , Gonzalez-Calderon Carlos A. , Posada-Henao John Jairo , Lopez-Ospina Hector , Gil-Marin Jhan Kevin
Published: November 2022

This paper presents an entropy-based transit tour synthesis (TTS) using fuzzy logic (FL) based on entropy maximization (EM). The objective is to obtain the most probable transit (bus) tour flow distribution in the network based on traffic counts. These models consider fixed parameters and constraints. The costs, traffic counts, and demand for buses vary depending on different aspects (e.g., congestion), which are not captured in detail in the models. Then, as the FL can be included in modeling that variability, it allows obtaining solutions where some or all the constraints do not entirely satisfy their expected value, but are close to it, due to the flexibility this method provides to the model. This optimization problem was transformed into a bi-objective problem when the optimization variables were the membership and entropy. The performance of the proposed formulation was assessed in the Sioux Falls Network. We created an indicator (Δ) that measures the distance between the model’s obtained solution and the requested value or target value. It was calculated for both production and volume constraints. The indicator allowed us to observe that the flexible problem (FL Mode) had smaller Δ values than the ones obtained in the No FL models. These results prove that the inclusion of the FL and EM approaches to estimate bus tour flow, applying the synthesis method (traffic counts), improves the quality of the tour estimation.
Integrating Occupational Health and Safety Risk and Production Economics for Sustainable SME Growth
Authors: Ji Zuzhen , Pons Dirk , Su Zhouyang , Lyu Zichong , Pearse John
Published: November 2022

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing industry normally arise as a result of product innovations. Transiting and growing into large organizations is a critical process for the sustainable growth of SMEs, and this requires developing appropriate production systems. Such development focuses on production economics and the optimization of facility layout, production capacity, and machine utilization. These optimizations are usually achieved using discrete event simulation (DES). However, the DES primarily focuses on production optimization and is not formulated to give concurrent attention to occupational health and safety risks, where the workers’ occupational health and safety are also important to production systems; hence, sustainability issues arise. Until now, the production economics and workers’ health and safety are usually treated separately, and the health and safety aspects are often managed after the system has been developed. This brings increasing hazards in the production environment since adding new facilities to the system may introduce new hazards and cause further safety issues. The present paper proposes a methodology to solve the above concerns. Its key features are the use of a quality-of-life metric for determining the occupational health and safety risks of a particular work activity and the embedding thereof as a routine in DES for manufacturing plant simulation. One of the contributions of the proposed integration method is that it helps to enhance the development of production systems that support financial due diligence, as well as occupational health and safety (OHS) due diligence. This is particularly important to SMEs in the manufacturing industries, where growth comes with particular sustainability challenges related to the need to develop more systematic operational and safety management systems.
The Interplay between the CAOF Agreement and BBNJ Agreement: A Chinese Perspective
Authors: Liu Dan
Published: November 2022

After years of negotiation, in 2018, five Arctic coastal states and five other members, including China, reached the Agreement to Prevent Unregulated High Seas Fisheries in the Central Arctic Ocean (CAOF Agreement). Meanwhile, at the sessions of the BBNJ negotiation, which were mandated by the UN General Assembly Resolution 72/249, expectations for a legally binding BBNJ Agreement in the future also increased. This paper outlines the convergence and potential conflict between the CAOF Agreement and the envisioned BBNJ Agreement. Moreover, owing to its important role in international ocean governance, China’s treaty obligations to the CAOF Agreement and its position on the four major issues of the BBNJ Agreement need to be carefully observed. More importantly, this paper provides an analysis of China’s views regarding the interplay between the two agreements to offer a reference for BBNJ governance.
A Privacy-Preserving KYC-Compliant Identity Scheme for Accounts on All Public Blockchains
Authors: Sun Nigang , Zhang Yuanyi , Liu Yining
Published: November 2022

Cryptocurrencies have the potential to enable socioeconomic growth throughout the world by offering easier access to capital and financial services. However, many virtual asset service providers (VASPs) that offer cryptocurrency services lack identity management and can be accessed anonymously, which has led to their services being exploited by criminal activities such as money laundering and illegal foreign exchange. Such crimes have a negative impact on socioeconomic sustainability. Building identity systems on blockchains can help VASPs improve their identity management to combat cryptocurrency-based crimes so VASPs can better serve the social economy and achieve their sustainability goals. However, existing solutions have privacy problems because the identity provider can associate users’ identities with their wallet accounts. In addition, there is currently no solution that can support all public blockchains unconditionally, as current solutions can only support EVM-compliant blockchains or require additional work to support new blockchains. This article proposes a KYC (know your customer)-compliant identity scheme based on Ethereum using Merkle trees and smart contracts. The identity and wallet accounts are linked by the user rather than the KYC provider so, in general, no one but the user knows the association between the wallet accounts and the identity, which protects privacy. For suspicious accounts, supervisors can trace their identities and thus achieve supervision. In addition, the scheme supports identifying accounts on all public blockchains by using Merkle trees and smart contracts to bind accounts on multiple blockchains to one identity and no extra work is required. Moreover, the scheme supports users to prove that their attributes meet the requirements of VASPs by adopting the BBS+ signature and the Sigma protocol.
Teaching and Learning Methods for Promoting Sustainability in Tourism Education
Authors: Chen Meiai , Pei Tingting , Jeronen Eila , Wang Zhihui , Xu Lihua
Published: November 2022

Teaching and learning methods play an important role in promoting sustainability in tourism education. However, previous studies mainly focus on sustainability in tourism. This qualitative survey provides an overview of how sustainable development and tourism education are taught and learned in higher education institutions. It aims to support the selection of teaching and learning approaches and methods for educating sustainability-driven tourism at universities. The materials were selected based on keywords in tourism education. The study describes 32 articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals from 2000 to 2022. The content of the articles was analyzed in detail using qualitative content analysis. Collaborative and interdisciplinary learning and case study teaching, alongside problem-based learning and experiential learning (outdoor learning), were utilized in 10 and 6 articles, respectively. Developing collaborative and interdisciplinary learning skills, developing systems thinking skills, developing experiential learning skills, and developing techniques for increasing environmental awareness were the key points of teaching and learning methods to promote sustainability in tourism education. Behavioral Change Wheel (BCW) in tourism should be implemented in school education to reach sustainable development goals and to support sustainable development.
Optimal Design of Convolutional Neural Network Architectures Using Teaching–Learning-Based Optimization for Image Classification
Authors: Ang Koon Meng , El-kenawy El-Sayed M. , Abdelhamid Abdelaziz A. , Ibrahim Abdelhameed , Alharbi Amal H. , Khafaga Doaa Sami , Tiang Sew Sun , Lim Wei Hong
Published: November 2022

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have exhibited significant performance gains over conventional machine learning techniques in solving various real-life problems in computational intelligence fields, such as image classification. However, most existing CNN architectures were handcrafted from scratch and required significant amounts of problem domain knowledge from designers. A novel deep learning method abbreviated as TLBOCNN is proposed in this paper by leveraging the excellent global search ability of teaching–learning-based optimization (TLBO) to obtain an optimal design of network architecture for a CNN based on the given dataset with symmetrical distribution of each class of data samples. A variable-length encoding scheme is first introduced in TLBOCNN to represent each learner as a potential CNN architecture with different layer parameters. During the teacher phase, a new mainstream architecture computation scheme is designed to compute the mean parameter values of CNN architectures by considering the information encoded into the existing population members with variable lengths. The new mechanisms of determining the differences between two learners with variable lengths and updating their positions are also devised in both the teacher and learner phases to obtain new learners. Extensive simulation studies report that the proposed TLBOCNN achieves symmetrical performance in classifying the majority of MNIST-variant datasets, displays the highest accuracy, and produces CNN models with the lowest complexity levels compared to other state-of-the-art methods due to its promising search ability.
Prediction of Marshall Stability and Marshall Flow of Asphalt Pavements Using Supervised Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Gul Muhammad Aniq , Islam Md Kamrul , Awan Hamad Hassan , Sohail Muhammad , Al Fuhaid Abdulrahman Fahad , Arifuzzaman Md , Qureshi Hisham Jahangir
Published: November 2022

The conventional method for determining the Marshall Stability (MS) and Marshall Flow (MF) of asphalt pavements entails laborious, time-consuming, and expensive laboratory procedures. In order to develop new and advanced prediction models for MS and MF of asphalt pavements the current study applied three soft computing techniques: Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), and Multi Expression Programming (MEP). A comprehensive database of 343 data points was established for both MS and MF. The nine most significant and straightforwardly determinable geotechnical factors were chosen as the predictor variables. The root squared error (RSE), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), relative root mean square error (RRMSE), coefficient of determination (R2), and correlation coefficient (R), were all used to evaluate the performance of models. The sensitivity analysis (SA) revealed the rising order of input significance of MS and MF. The results of parametric analysis (PA) were also found to be consistent with previous research findings. The findings of the comparison showed that ANN, ANFIS, and MEP are all reliable and effective methods for the estimation of MS and MF. The mathematical expressions derived from MEP represent the novelty of MEP and are relatively reliable and simple. Roverall values for MS and MF were in the order of MEP > ANFIS > ANN with all values over the permissible range of 0.80 for both MS and MF. Therefore, all the techniques showed higher performance, possessed high prediction and generalization capabilities, and assessed the relative significance of input parameters in the prediction of MS and MF. In terms of training, testing, and validation data sets and their closeness to the ideal fit, i.e., the slope of 1:1, MEP models outperformed the other two models. The findings of this study will contribute to the choice of an appropriate artificial intelligence strategy to quickly and precisely estimate the Marshall Parameters. Hence, the findings of this research study would assist in safer, faster, and more sustainable predictions of MS and MF, from the standpoint of time and resources required to perform the Marshall tests.
“Lock-In Effect” of China’s Industrialization: An Empirical Analysis of the County-Level Cities in Southern Jiangsu
Authors: Zhu Kai , Sun Wanxiang
Published: November 2022

This paper defines and explains the “lock-in effect” in China’s industrialization process using the county-level cities in southern Jiangsu while considering both internationalized and localized views. An empirical analysis of two typical representative indicators, per capita economic output and economic structure, using 2002, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2019 official statistical data demonstrate that capital, labor and other traditional factors still play a role in the current “lock-in effect”. New elements, such as human capital, are manifesting their growing importance. Public services, such as science and technology, education, medical and health care, social safety and employment, are gradually exerting their influence to optimize the economic structure. This paper promotes pertinent development decisions associated with the “lock-in effect” that must be considered during current industrialization processes.
The Outcomes of Patients with Haemoglobin Disorders in Cyprus: A Joined Report of the Thalassaemia International Federation and the Nicosia and Paphos Thalassaemia Centres (State Health Services Organisation)
Authors: Angastiniotis Michael , Christou Soteroula , Kolnakou Annita , Pangalou Evangelia , Savvidou Irene , Farmakis Dimitrios , Eleftheriou Androulla
Published: November 2022

Haemoglobinopathies, including thalassaemias and sickle-cell syndromes, are demanding, lifelong conditions that pose a significant burden to patients, families, and healthcare systems. Despite the therapeutic advances and the resulting improvements in prognosis accomplished in past decades, these patients still face important challenges, including suboptimal access to quality care in areas with developing economies, changing epidemiology due to massive migration flows, an evolving clinical spectrum due to ageing in well-treated patients, and limited access to novel high-cost therapies. We herein describe the organization of healthcare services for haemoglobinopathies in Cyprus—with particular focus on beta-thalassaemia, the most prevalent condition in this region—along with selected patient outcomes. This report aims at underscoring the fact that nationally funded and well-coordinated prevention and care programmes for chronic and complex conditions, such as haemoglobinopathies, with active involvement from patient organizations lead to effective disease control and excellent outcomes in survival, quality of life, social adaptation, and public health savings, and allow timely and effective responses to emerging crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The Cyprus paradigm could therefore serve as a blueprint for the organization or adaptation of haemoglobinopathy programs in other countries since these disorders are still widely occurring.
Biochemical Parameters of Female Wistar Rats and Their Offspring Exposed to Inorganic Mercury in Drinking Water during the Gestational and Lactational Periods
Authors: Galiciolli Maria Eduarda A. , Pedroso Taíse F. , Mesquita Mariana , Oliveira Vitor A. , Pereira Maria E. , Oliveira Cláudia S.
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of inorganic mercury (Hg2+) exposure on biochemical parameters of dams and their offspring exposed to metal in drinking water. Female Wistar rats were exposed to 0, 10, and 50 µg Hg2+/mL (as HgCl2) for 42 days corresponding to gestational (21 days) and lactational (21 days) periods. The offspring were sacrificed on postnatal days 10, 20, 30, and 40. Dams exposed to Hg2+ presented a decrease in water intake in gestation [total: F(2,19) = 15.84; p ≤ 0.0001; daily: F(2,21) = 12.71; p = 0.0002] and lactation [total: F(2,19) = 4.619; p = 0.024; daily: F(2,21) = 5.309; p = 0.0136] without alteration in food intake. Dams exposed to 50 µg Hg2+/mL had an increase in kidney total [F(2,21) = 8.081; p = 0.0025] and relative [F(2,21) = 14.11; p = 0.0001] weight without changes in biochemical markers of nephrotoxicity. Moreover, dams had an increase in hepatic [F(2,10) = 3.847; p = 0.0577] and renal [F(2,11) = 6.267; p = 0.0152] metallothionein content concomitantly with an increase in renal Hg levels after Hg2+ exposure. Regarding offspring, the exposure to Hg2+  in utero and breast milk increased the relative liver [F(2,18) = 5.33; p = 0.0152] and kidney [F(2,18) = 3.819; p = 0.0415] weight only on the postnatal day 40. In conclusion, dams were able to handle the Hg2+ avoiding the classic Hg2+ toxic effects as well as protecting the offspring. We suggest that this protection is related to the hepatic and renal metallothionein content increase.
Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration of the Central Nervous System from Air Pollutants: A Scoping Review
Authors: Armas Frances Vivienne , D’Angiulli Amedeo
Published: November 2022

In this scoping review, we provide a selective mapping of the global literature on the effects of air pollution on the life-span development of the central nervous system. Our synthesis first defines developmental neurotoxicants and the model effects of particulate matter. We then discuss air pollution as a test bench for neurotoxicants, including animal models, the framework of systemic inflammation in all affected organs of the body, and the cascade effects on the developing brain, with the most prevalent neurological structural and functional outcomes. Specifically, we focus on evidence on magnetic resonance imaging and neurodegenerative diseases, and the links between neuronal apoptosis and inflammation. There is evidence of a developmental continuity of outcomes and effects that can be observed from utero to aging due to severe or significant exposure to neurotoxicants. These substances alter the normal trajectory of neurological aging in a propulsive way towards a significantly higher rate of acceleration than what is expected if our atmosphere were less polluted. The major aggravating role of this neurodegenerative process is linked with the complex action of neuroinflammation. However, most recent evidence learned from research on the effects of COVID-19 lockdowns around the world suggests that a short-term drastic improvement in the air we breathe is still possible. Moreover, the study of mitohormesis and vitagenes is an emerging area of research interest in anti-inflammatory and antidegenerative therapeutics, which may have enormous promise in combatting the deleterious effects of air pollution through pharmacological and dietary interventions.
Acute Hepatic Injury Associated with Acute Administration of Synthetic Cannabinoid XLR-11 in Mouse Animal Model
Authors: Alzu’bi Ayman , Zoubi Mazhar Salim Al , Al-Trad Bahaa , AbuAlArjah Manal Isam , Shehab Malek , Alzoubi Hiba , Albals Dima , Abdelhady Gamal T. , El-Huneidi Waseem
Published: November 2022

The widespread recreational use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) has become a serious health issue. Reports of life-threatening intoxications related to SC consumption have markedly increased in recent years, including neurotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity. We investigated the impact of acute administration of the synthetic cannabinoid XLR-11 (3 mg/kg, i.p. for 5 consecutive days) on the liver in BALB/c mouse animal model. Using real-time quantitative RT-PCR, MDA assay, and TUNEL assay, we found consistent up-regulation of a variety of genes involved in oxidative stress (NOX2, NOX4, and iNOS), inflammation (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and apoptosis (Bax) in the liver of XLR-11 treated mice compared to control mice. These finding were supported with an elevation of MDA levels and TUNEL positive cells in the liver of XLR-11 treated mice which further confirm increased oxidative stress and apoptosis, respectively. Histopathological analysis of the liver of XLR-11 treated mice confirmed pronounced hepatic necrosis associated with inflammatory cell infiltration. Furthermore, elevated ALT and AST serum levels were also identified in XLR-11 treated mice indicating possible liver damage. Overall, SC-induced hepatotoxicity seems to be mainly mediated by activated oxidative stress and inflammatory processes in the liver, but the specific mechanisms involved require further investigations. However, the present study shed light on the potential deleterious role of acute administration of SCs in the progression to acute hepatic injury which enhances our understanding of the adverse effect of SC consumption.
Dentistry and Drug Adverse Events: Between Responsibilities and Regulations
Authors: D’Anna Tommaso , Argo Antonina , Zerbo Stefania , D’Urso Diego , Rini Maria Sofia
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this paper is to renew interest and attention to the medical history, prescription, and/or use of drugs during dental practice. The work analyzes the issue of the use of drugs in dentistry from both a clinical and a medical–legal point of view. The laws governing the matter were also taken into consideration, relating them to the roles of prescriber and user that the dentist can acquire. Analysis of various aspects of this matter demonstrates that it is necessary for dentists to know the drugs and medical substances, their characteristics and properties, related effects, and interactions in order to use them appropriately and adequately. Knowledge of interferences, reactions, and adverse events or complications helps to reduce errors and protect patients’ health. Furthermore, knowledge of the national and international reference standards relating to the use of drugs leads to a reduction in medico–legal questions. In conclusion, knowledge and adequate and appropriate use of drugs reduces the possibility of accidents, adverse events, medico–legal consequences, and disputes with patients. Documented and traceable choices allow the analysis and valuation of professional conduct. Authors perceived the topic of informed consent of patients as relevant to the adequate procedure of prescribing drugs related to dentistry practice; therefore, representative conditions of patients at risk should be illustrated in practice. Legal duties related to physician drug prescription and use must be considered and carefully checked.
Two Analytical Schemes for the Optical Soliton Solution of the (2 + 1) Hirota–Maccari System Observed in Single-Mode Fibers
Authors: Ozdemir Neslihan , Secer Aydin , Ozisik Muslum , Bayram Mustafa
Published: November 2022

In this scientific research article, the new Kudryashov method and the tanh-coth method, which have not been applied before, are employed to construct analytical and soliton solutions of the (2+1)-dimensional Hirota–Maccari system. The (2+1)-dimensional Hirota–Maccari system is a special kind of nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSEs) that models the motion of isolated waves localized in a small part of space, and is used in such various fields as fiber optics telecommunication systems, nonlinear optics, plasma physics, and hydrodynamics. In addition, the Hirota–Maccari system defines the dynamical characters of femtosecond soliton pulse propagation in single-mode fibers. Analytical solutions of the model are successfully acquired with the assistance of symbolic computation utilizing these methods. Finally, 3D, 2D, and contour graphs of solutions are depicted at specific values of parameters. It is shown that the new Kudryashov method and the tanh-coth method are uncomplicated, very effective, easily applicable, reliable, and indeed vital mathematical tools in solving nonlinear models.
Explaining the Multiwavelength Emission of γ-ray Bright Flat-Spectrum Radio Quasar 3C 454.3 in Different Activity States
Authors: Feng Yaru , Hu Shaoming , Zhou Ruixin , Gao Songbo
Published: November 2022

The origin of gamma-ray flares of blazars is still an open issue in jet physics. In this work, we reproduce the multiwavelength spectral energy distribution (SED) of flat-spectrum radio quasars 3C 454.3 under a one-zone leptonic scenario, investigate the variation of the physical parameters in different activity states, and analyze the possible origin of its γ-ray outburst. Based on the analysis of multiwavelength quasi-simultaneous observations of 3C 454.3 during MJD 55,400–56,000, we consider that the radiation includes synchrotron (Syn), synchrotron self-Compton (SSC), and external Compton (EC) radiations by the simulation, and the seed photons of the external Compton component mainly comes from the broad-line region and dusty molecular torus. The model results show that: (1) We can well reproduce the multiwavelength quasi-simultaneity SED of 3C 454.3 in various activity states by using a one-zone Syn+SSC+EC model. (2) By comparing the physical model parameters of the bright and the quiescent states, we suggest that this γ-ray flaring activity is more likely to be caused by the increase in the doppler factor.
Covariant Derivative of Fermions and All That
Authors: Shapiro Ilya L.
Published: November 2022

We present detailed pedagogical derivation of covariant derivative of fermions and some related expressions, including commutator of covariant derivatives and energy-momentum tensor of a free Dirac field. On top of that, local conformal transformations for a Dirac fermion in curved spacetime are considered and we obtain the expression for the energy-momentum tensor on the cosmological background.
A New Sample of Gamma-Ray Emitting Jetted Active Galactic Nuclei
Authors: Foschini Luigi , Lister Matthew L. , Andernach Heinz , Ciroi Stefano , Marziani Paola , Antón Sonia , Berton Marco , Dalla Bontà Elena , Järvelä Emilia , Marchã Maria J. M. , Romano Patrizia , Tornikoski Merja , Vercellone Stefano , Vietri Amelia
Published: November 2022

We considered the fourth catalog of gamma-ray point sources produced by the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT) and selected only jetted active galactic nuclei (AGN) or sources with no specific classification, but with a low-frequency counterpart. Our final list is composed of 2980 gamma-ray point sources. We then searched for optical spectra in all the available literature and publicly available databases, to measure redshifts and to confirm or change the original LAT classification. Our final list of gamma-ray emitting jetted AGN is composed of BL Lac Objects (40%), flat-spectrum radio quasars (23%), misaligned AGN (2.8%), narrow-line Seyfert 1, Seyfert, and low-ionization nuclear emission-line region galaxies (1.9%). We also found a significant number of objects changing from one type to another, and vice versa (changing-look AGN, 1.1%). About 30% of gamma-ray sources still have an ambiguous classification or lack one altogether.
A Short 5′triphosphate RNA nCoV-L Induces a Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Response by Activating RIG-I
Authors: Song Ziyang , Wang Qian , Bian Lianlian , An Chaoqiang , Cui Bopei , Mao Qunying , Wu Xing , He Qian , Bai Yu , Liu Jianyang , Song Lifang , Liu Dong , Zhang Jialu , Gao Fan , Li Xiuling , Liang Zhenglun
Published: November 2022

Small molecular nucleic acid drugs produce antiviral effects by activating pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). In this study, a small molecular nucleotide containing 5′triphosphoric acid (5′PPP) and possessing a double-stranded structure was designed and named nCoV-L. nCoV-L was found to specifically activate RIG-I, induce interferon responses, and inhibit duplication of four RNA viruses (Human enterovirus 71, Human poliovirus 1, Human coxsackievirus B5 and Influenza A virus) in cells. In vivo, nCoV-L quickly induced interferon responses and protected BALB/c suckling mice from a lethal dose of the enterovirus 71. Additionally, prophylactic administration of nCoV-L was found to reduce mouse death and relieve morbidity symptoms in a K18-hACE2 mouse lethal model of SARS-CoV-2. In summary, these findings indicate that nCoV-L activates RIG-I and quickly induces effective antiviral signals. Thus, it has potential as a broad-spectrum antiviral drug.
Mixed Infection of Blackcurrant with a Novel Cytorhabdovirus and Black Currant-Associated Nucleorhabdovirus
Authors: Petrzik Karel , Přibylová Jaroslava , Špak Josef , Sarkisova Tatiana , Fránová Jana , Holub Jan , Skalík Jan , Koloniuk Igor
Published: November 2022

A virome screen was performed on a new breeding line, KB1, of blackcurrant. Rhabdovirus-like particles were observed by electron microscopy in ultrathin sections of flower stalks, and the complete genome sequence of a novel virus, provisionally named blackcurrant rhabdovirus 2 (BCRV2), was determined and verified using high-throughput sequencing. The genomic organization of BCRV2 was characteristic of cytorhabdoviruses (family Rhabdoviridae) and included seven genes: 3′-N-P′-P-P3-M-G-L-5′. BLASTP analysis revealed that the putative L protein had the highest amino acid sequence identity (75%) with strawberry virus 2. BCRV2 was detected in Cryptomyzus galeopsidis, but efficient transmission by this aphid was not confirmed. Of note, we observed coinfection of the KB1 line with blackcurrant-associated rhabdovirus (BCaRV) by RT-PCR. This is likely the first evidence of the presence of a cyto- and a nucleorhabdovirus in a single host.
Effect of Previous COVID-19 Vaccination on Humoral Immunity 3 Months after SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Infection and Booster Effect of a Fourth COVID-19 Vaccination 2 Months after SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Infection
Authors: Kim Jinsoo , Seo Hyeonji , Kim Han-Wool , Kim Dongbum , Kwon Hyung-Joo , Kim Yong-Kyun
Published: November 2022

In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of COVID-19 vaccination on 3-month immune response and durability after natural infection by the Omicron variant and to assess the immune response to a fourth dose of COVID-19 vaccination in patients with prior natural infection with the Omicron variant. Overall, 86 patients aged ≥60 years with different vaccination histories and 39 health care workers (HCWs) vaccinated thrice before Omicron infection were enrolled. The sVNT50 titer was significantly lower in patients with incomplete vaccination before SARS-CoV-2 infection with the S clade (p < 0.001), Delta variant (p < 0.001), or Omicron variant (p = 0.003) than in those vaccinated thrice. The sVNT results against the Omicron variant did not differ significantly in patients aged ≥60 years (p = 0.49) and HCWs (p = 0.17), regardless of the recipient receiving the fourth dose 2 months after COVID-19. Incomplete COVID-19 vaccination before Omicron infection for individuals aged ≥60 years conferred limited protection against homologous and heterologous virus strains, whereas two or three doses of the vaccine provided cross-variant humoral immunity against Omicron infection for at least 3 months. However, a fourth dose 2 months after Omicron infection did not enhance immunity against the homologous strain. A future strategy using the bivalent Omicron-containing booster vaccine with appropriate timing will be crucial.
Effect of In Ovo Vitamin C Injection against Mobile Phone Radiation on Post-Hatch Performance of Broiler Chicks
Authors: Yenilmez Fatma
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effect of in ovo injection of vitamin C to reduce the harmful effects of electromagnetic waves (EMWs) emitted from mobile phones on chicken embryos. In this study, a total of 750 fertilized eggs of Ross 308 were exposed to EMWs for 1050 min during the incubation period. On the 17th day of incubation, the eggs were divided into three groups and solutions were injected into the amnion sac of embryos. The chicks were housed separately in accordance with in ovo treatments for 5 wk after hatching. An in ovo vitamin C injection resulted in a lower hatching weight. The post-hatch mortality or production efficiency factor of birds in the in ovo vitamin C injection group and the intact egg group were comparable, and were better than that of the other negative control group. In ovo vitamin C injection in eggs subjected to EMWs significantly increased their body weight gain, carcass weight, abdominal fat weight, and AST levels, but reduced spleen weight and PON-1 levels. In conclusion, an in ovo vitamin C injection in eggs subject to mobile phone EMWs improved the post-hatch performance of chicks, but low PON and high AST activities indicate an increase in oxidative damage among broiler chicks.
Pregnancies following Protocols for Repetitive Synchronization of Ovulation in Primiparous Buffaloes in Different Seasons
Authors: Presicce Giorgio A. , Vistocco Domenico , Capuano Massimo , Navas Luigi , Salzano Angela , Bifulco Giovanna , Campanile Giuseppe , Neglia Gianluca
Published: November 2022

Primiparous buffaloes were tested in two periods of the year characterized, by either low or high reproductive efficiency. They were subjected to two protocols for synchronization of ovulation: (i) Ovsynch (OV) and (ii) progesterone based (P4) treatment. After calving, the animals underwent a series of four cycles of re-synchronization protocols. The season did not affect pregnancy rates when the results of the two treatments were pooled together with regard to the first synchronization protocol, followed by AI. Pregnancy rates were similar during the low breeding season (50.3% vs. 57.4% in OV and P4, respectively), but different during the high breeding season (50.4% vs. 67.7% in OV and P4, respectively; p = 0.000). Logistic regression confirmed a significant effect of treatment and season interaction on pregnancy (p = 0.003). Following re-synchronization, a treatment by season interaction was detected during the low breeding season (odds ratio = 2.233), in favor of P4. Finally, a survival analysis showed a better response of animals subjected to P4 treatment from the second AI onward. In conclusion, the pooled data of pregnancy rates from both treatments between seasons are not different following AIs. Better results, though, were obtained from the implementation of P4 treatment, and are recorded in a season-fashioned mode when the comparison is made following first or cumulative AIs.
The Key Parameters Involved in a Rainfall-Triggered Landslide
Authors: Oliveira Elisangela do Prado , Acevedo Andrés Miguel González , Moreira Virnei Silva , Faro Vitor Pereira , Kormann Alessander Christopher Morales
Published: November 2022

In addition to the intensity of precipitation, the different hydraulic and mechanical properties of a soil hill can also be responsible for landslides. More specifically, the same rainfall amount can trigger or not trigger a mass movement depending on its characteristics. This issue represents a great geotechnical hazard in mountainous regions such as Brazil, Italy, South Africa, Japan and Hong Kong. The understanding of each of the key factors involved in a rainfall-triggered landslide can be deepened and also quantified. Thus, this research defines, through a numerical model, which parameters are the key factors involved in slope stability. A homogeneous and unsaturated hill was studied. Its different hydraulic and mechanical properties were varied. Geometry and mechanical parameters were shown to exert the greatest influence on stability. Hydraulic parameters, for the same amount of rain, showed a lower influence. The fitting parameters of the soil–water characteristic curve of the materials had a low impact on stability when compared to other parameters assessed. Our conclusions can help future laboratory and field studies to focus more on the accuracy and confidentiality of the key parameters. The results are also important as they give direction to studies related to precipitation threshold definition.
An Analytical Solution to Predict the Distribution of Streamwise Flow Velocity in an Ecological River with Submerged Vegetation
Authors: Zhang Jiao , Mi Zhangyi , Wang Wen , Li Zhanbin , Wang Huilin , Wang Qingjing , Zhang Xunle , Du Xinchun
Published: November 2022

Aquatic submerged vegetation is widespread in rivers. The transverse distribution of flow velocity in rivers is altered because of the vegetation. Based on the vegetation coverage, the cross-section of the ecological channels can be divided into the non-vegetated area and the vegetated area. In the vegetated area, we defined two depth-averaged velocities, which included the water depth-averaged velocity, and the vegetation height-averaged velocity. In this study, we optimized the ratio of these two depth-averaged velocities, and used this velocity ratio in the Navier–Stokes equation to predict the lateral distribution of longitudinal velocity in the open channel that was partially covered by submerged vegetation. Based on the Navier–Stokes equations, the term “vegetation resistance” was introduced in the vegetated area. The equations for the transverse eddy viscosity coefficient ξ, friction coefficient f, drag force coefficient Cd, and porosity α were used for both the non-vegetated area and the vegetated area, and the range of the depth-averaged secondary flow coefficient was investigated. An analytical solution for predicting the transverse distribution of the water depth-averaged streamwise velocity was obtained in channels that were partially covered by submerged vegetation, which was experimentally verified in previous studies. Additionally, the improved ratio proposed here was compared to previous ratios from other studies. Our findings showed that the ratio in this study could perform velocity prediction more effectively in the partially covered vegetated channel, with a maximum average relative error of 4.77%. The improved ratio model reduced the number of parameters, which introduced the diameter of the vegetation, the amount of vegetation per unit area, and the flow depth. This theoretical ratio lays the foundation for analyzing the flow structure of submerged vegetation.
Evaluation of factors of origin and intensity of erosion processes in Novosilskaya agro-forest reclaim station
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Land Reclamation, Forestry and Land Management Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow Agricultural Academy named after K. A. Timiryazev, Moscow, Dubenok N.N., , Petelko A.I. ,   Novosibirsk Zonal Agroforestry Experimental Station — Branch of the Federal Scientific Center of Agroecology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Mtsensk, Kalinichenko R.V. ,   Department of Agricultural Land Reclamation, Forestry and Land Management Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow Agricultural Academy named after K. A. Timiryazev, Moscow
Published: November 2022

The materials of scientific research provide information about the processes of the origin of ravines on sloping lands. During the snowmelt period, water flows from the plowed fields into the hydrographic network. There are washouts, which cause the erosion processes. The level of soil erosion during snowmelt increases in direct proportion to the length of the slope. There are two sets of factors that have a decisive influence on the formation of erosion processes – natural and anthropogenic. Degradation processes usually appear when the factors of these two complexes are combined. According to the long-term experimental data of the Novosilskaya agro-forest reclaim station, the increase in coastal erosion in length is 1.6 m, and bottom erosion is 2.1 m (on average per year). To protect agricultural landscapes from negative processes of soil erosion, the anti-erosion measures should be applied.
The formation of the architecture of the future taking into account environmental requirements
Authors:   State University of Land Management, Bykova G. I. , Kostochkina O. V. ,   State University of Land Management, Ivanova E.I. ,   State University of Land Management, Golubeva T.P. ,   State University of Land Management
Published: November 2022

The article discusses the creation of harmonious architectural objects based on the principles used in the systems of natural organisms. Using the experience of wildlife for the creation of modern structures is a promising direction. Analysis of living organisms when studying the laws of material economy, energy security and reliability of life can help to master new principles in architecture. New technologies taken after scientific research of natural processes are energy-saving homes; smart homes; healthy homes etc. The paper contain the examples of the use of natural materials –for example, wood – in construction of high-rise buildings maintaining optimal environmental parameters.
The analysis results of the image of property objects on “the plan along the Ruza river from the city of Ruza to Spasskoe village"
Authors:   State University of Land Management, Krasowskiy A.P.
Published: November 2022

This article presents the process and research results of the possibility of correspondences between the images of objects plotted on cartographic materials of the Russian state of the XVII – XIX centuries. The work is carried out on the example of a drawing, boundary plans and a topographic map depicting the territory of the Ruza district, Moscow province. The information necessary to carry out the research on the property ownership of objects is obtained from reviews of historical documents. The article shows that the establishment of correspondences between historical objects can be made with acceptable accuracy and without restrictions on the areas of the studied territories using the images available on cartographic materials of the second half of the XVIIIXIX centuries. The use of drawings of the XVII century for these purposes is possible only in some areas containing images of several nearby objects. In the course of the research the author made and substantiated the assumptions about the purposes of compiling some of the drawings of the second half of the XVII century. Based on this research, it is possible to name them when compiling inventories of archival materials.
Ethnic minority GP trainees at risk for underperformance assessments: a quantitative cohort study
Authors: van Moppes Nathanja Mariëtte , Willems Sander , Nasori Mana , Bont Jettie , Akkermans Reinier , van Dijk Nynke , van den Muijsenbergh Maria , Visser Mechteld
Published: November 2022

Background

Recent studies suggest that ethnic minority students underperform in standardised assessments commonly used to evaluate their progress. This disparity seems to also hold for postgraduate medical students and GP trainees, and may affect the quality of primary health care, which requires an optimally diverse workforce.

Aims

To address the following: 1) to determine to what extent ethnic minority GP trainees are more at risk of being assessed as underperforming than their majority peers; 2) to investigate whether established underperformance appears in specific competence areas; and 3) to explore first- and second-generation ethnic minority trainees’ deviations.

Design & setting

Quantitative retrospective cohort design in Dutch GP specialty training (start years: 2015–2017).

Method

In 2020–2021, the authors evaluated files on assessed underperformance of 1700 GP trainees at seven Dutch GP specialty training institutes after excluding five opt-outs and 165 incomplete datasets (17.4% ethnic minority trainees). Underperformance was defined as the occurrence of the following, which was prompted by the training institute: 1) preliminary dropout; 2) extension of the educational pathway; and/or 3) mandatory coaching pathways. Statistics Netherlands (CBS) anonymised the files and added data about ethnic group. Thereafter, the authors performed logistic regression for potential underperformance analysis and χ2tests for competence area analysis.

Results

Ethnic minority GP trainees were more likely to face underperformance assessments than the majority group (odds ratio [OR] 2.41, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.67 to 3.49). Underperformance was not significantly nested in particular competence areas. First-generation ethnic minority trainees seemed more at risk than their second-generation peers.

Conclusion

Ethnic minority GP trainees seem more at risk of facing educational barriers than the majority group. Additional qualitative research on underlying factors is essential.
Extreme Value Theory Applied to the Statistical Distribution of the Largest Lengths of Fish
Authors: FORMACION SONIA P.
Published: November 2022

A method is presented which allows one to estimate, based on the maximum lengths of a series of length-frequency samples, and on the theory of extreme values, a single, expected largest value (Lm ) and its confidence interval. The method is applied to two sets of samples of chub mackerel, Rastrelliger brachysoma from the Central Philippines.
Maturity and Spawning of Shortfin Scad (Decapterus macrosoma) (Carangidae) of the Java Sea
Authors: WIDODO JOHANES
Published: November 2022

Maturity and .spawning of shortfin scad (Decapterus macrosoma) in the Java Sea were investigated using macroscopic characteristics of the gonad for determining the stages of maturity and gonadosomatic index (GSI) for the growth of the gonads. The fish reached maturity in July; spawning would likely occur in July/August. Overall sex ratio was 1 : 0.28 (male: female) . Length at first maturity of males was 14.8 cm and for females, 15.5 cm.
Літургійні традиції східного християнства і поширення візантійської культури
Authors: Shepetyak Oksana
Published: November 2022

Літургійний обряд є одним із базових елементів релігії, позаяк він є вираженням релігійної віри засобами національних культур. Літургійні обряди виражають культурну специфіку народів, які намагалися виражати свою віру через кращі цивілізаційні надбання. До сьогодні збереглись п'ять східно-християнських літургійних обрядів: візантійський, вірменський, антіохійський, східно-сирійський (халдейський) та олександрійський. Усі Церкви візантійської традиції дотримуються виключно візантійського літургійного обряду. Інші обряди були витіснені з благочестя Церков, які потрапили під політичний вплив Константинопольського обряду. Олександрійський, вірменський, східно-сирійський (халдейський) та антіохійський обряди збережені у Східних Католицьких та Східних не-ортодоксальних Церквах. Аналіз мапи поширення східно-християнських літургійних обрядів свідчить про культурну експансію Візантії та Константинопольського Патріархату з ціллю поширення власної культури у східному християнстві та знищення автохтонних літургійних обрядів, богослужбових мов та культурної специфіки Помісних Церков
ritual do batismo e as possibilidades da construção de identidade religiosa
Authors: Rocha de Menezes Edivaldo
Published: November 2022

Este artigo tem por objetivo discutir o papel do batismo nos processos de construção das identidades religiosas dos membros da Primeira Igreja Batista de Trindade. Ele é baseado sobre tudo na etnografia produzida na Primeira Igreja Batista de Trindade, localizada na cidade de São Gonçalo, região metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro. Partindo da noção de batismo como um rito de passagem (VAN GENNEP [1909], 2011), e sendo o batismo um dos rituais centrais do Cristianismo creio que pode ser um importante ponto de acesso para o entendimento das formas de vida religiosa articuladas ao Cristianismo, de forma geral, e à Tradição Batista, de forma particular, uma vez que, concepções e rituais sobre batismos são elementos de divergência entre as várias tradições cristãs. O foco deste estudo é compreender como novas subjetividades religiosas são criadas através da participação do batizante em diferentes arenas pedagógicas e da vida cotidiana que antecedem e sucedem o ritual em tela. Creio ser de suma importância, nos debruçar sobre estudos dessa parcela da sociedade brasileira e entender como os sujeitos são construídos neste circulo crescente da sociedade.