bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Filtering Approach for Removing Outdoor Point Cloud Data of Manhattan-World Buildings
Authors: Fan Lei , Cai Yuanzhi
Published: September 2021

Laser scanning is a popular means of acquiring the indoor scene data of buildings for a wide range of applications concerning indoor environment. During data acquisition, unwanted data points beyond the indoor space of interest can also be recorded due to the presence of openings, such as windows and doors on walls. For better visualization and further modeling, it is beneficial to filter out those data, which is often achieved manually in practice. To automate this process, an efficient image-based filtering approach was explored in this research. In this approach, a binary mask image was created and updated through mathematical morphology operations, hole filling and connectively analysis. The final mask obtained was used to remove the data points located outside the indoor space of interest. The application of the approach to several point cloud datasets considered confirms its ability to effectively keep the data points in the indoor space of interest with an average precision of 99.50%. The application cases also demonstrate the computational efficiency (0.53 s, at most) of the approach proposed.
Branch-Pipe: Improving Graph Skeletonization around Branch Points in 3D Point Clouds
Authors: Ziamtsov Illia , Faizi Kian , Navlakha Saket
Published: September 2021

Modern plant phenotyping requires tools that are robust to noise and missing data, while being able to efficiently process large numbers of plants. Here, we studied the skeletonization of plant architectures from 3D point clouds, which is critical for many downstream tasks, including analyses of plant shape, morphology, and branching angles. Specifically, we developed an algorithm to improve skeletonization at branch points (forks) by leveraging the geometric properties of cylinders around branch points. We tested this algorithm on a diverse set of high-resolution 3D point clouds of tomato and tobacco plants, grown in five environments and across multiple developmental timepoints. Compared to existing methods for 3D skeletonization, our method efficiently and more accurately estimated branching angles even in areas with noisy, missing, or non-uniformly sampled data. Our method is also applicable to inorganic datasets, such as scans of industrial pipes or urban scenes containing networks of complex cylindrical shapes.
Tourism Getting Back to Life after COVID-19: Can Artificial Intelligence Help?
Authors: Perić Marko , Vitezić Vanja
Published: September 2021

Measures aimed at keeping physical and social distance during the COVID-19 pandemic have started to be a big challenge for service industries all over the world. The utilization of new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI robots) in hospitality and tourism can be imposed as a potential safety-related problem solver. This study explores consumers’ intentions to use hospitality services once all restrictions related to COVID-19 have been relaxed as well as their perception of how important they find some of the safety-related protective measures when visiting accommodation facilities. Respondents find that more rigorous cleaning techniques, additional disinfection, and hand sanitizer stations are the most important safety-related protective measures when staying at the accommodation facility. Although the respondents do not perceive AI robots as an important protective measure or beneficial in delivering a catering service, the results indicate some significant differences between more and less risk-averse travelers suggesting some potential strategic pathways during the crisis but also in the post-coronavirus future.
Energy Management System in Microgrids: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Zahraoui Younes , Alhamrouni Ibrahim , Mekhilef Saad , Basir Khan M. Reyasudin , Seyedmahmoudian Mehdi , Stojcevski Alex , Horan Ben
Published: September 2021

As promising solutions to various social and environmental issues, the generation and integration of renewable energy (RE) into microgrids (MGs) has recently increased due to the rapidly growing consumption of electric power. However, such integration can affect the stability and security of power systems due to its complexity and intermittency. Therefore, an optimal control approach is essential to ensure the efficiency, reliability, and quality of the delivered power. In addition, effective planning of policies for integrating MGs can help promote MG operations. However, outages may render these strategies inefficient and place the power system at risk. MGs are considered an ideal candidate for distributed power systems, given their capability to restore these systems rapidly after a physical or cyber-attack and create reliable protection systems. The energy management system (EMS) in an MG can operate controllable distributed energy resources and loads in real-time to generate a suitable short-term schedule for achieving some objectives. This paper presents a comprehensive review of MG elements, the different RE resources that comprise a hybrid system, and the various types of control, operating strategies, and goals in an EMS. A detailed explanation of the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of MGs is also presented. This paper aims to contribute to the policies and regulations adopted by certain countries, their protection schemes, transactive markets, and load restoration in MGs.
Effects of Fog in a Brazilian Road Segment Analyzed by a Driving Simulator for Sustainable Transport: Drivers’ Speed Profile under In-Vehicle Warning Systems
Authors: Calsavara Felipe , Kabbach Felipe Issa , Larocca Ana Paula C.
Published: September 2021

Intelligent transport systems enable vehicles to communicate with each other and with the environment, ensuring road safety. Their implementation can help reduce the number of accidents, especially in stretches of s-curves, where speed control is essential to ensure the safety of drivers, and under hazardous weather conditions. Such systems promptly notify drivers about potentially dangerous road conditions, such as fog, so that they can better adapt their driving behavior. This study evaluates the driver’s speed profile in different scenarios (clear weather, fog weather, and fog with an in-vehicle fog warning system) considering the road geometry elements (s-curves). A driving simulator recreated the real scenarios of a principal Brazilian road segment, showing the geometric and weather conditions of a road known for its several s-curves and frequent incidence of fog. A preliminary study identified the most critical curves through a weighted severity index methodology to define the critical segment. The results showed drivers considerably reduced their speed in the scenario with a warning system, thus contributing to the safety of s-curved segments. The implementation of in-vehicle warning systems can avoid or reduce the need for major infrastructure interventions such as geometric design, through investments in new intelligent transport systems.
Development of Local Economy through the Strengthening of Small-Medium-Sized Forest Enterprises in KPK, Pakistan
Authors: Zada Muhammad , Zada Shagufta , Ali Mudassar , Zhang Yongjun , Begum Abida , Han Heesup , Ariza-Montes Antonio , Vega-Muñoz Alejandro
Published: September 2021

Small–medium-sized forest enterprises (SMFEs) have historically played an essential role in developing countries’ economies worldwide because most businesses start as small businesses, and government support and knowledge-based recourse are critical to the sustainable development of SMFEs and local economies. The current studies examined the effects of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) government’s (Pakistan) support (GS) and entrepreneur knowledge (EK) on the development of small–medium-sized forest enterprises (SD) and their contribution to the local economic development (LED) of the region. Primary data were collected from 350 SMFEs in KPK, Pakistan. The model was developed by using a structural equation model (SEM) to investigate the impact of GS, EK, and SMFEs on the growth, SG, and sustainable development of the local economy. This study concludes that EK and GS could increase growth in SMFE businesses and contribute to LED. On the other hand, crediting loans and equipping businesses with training could not directly affect SMFE businesses and LED growth. The government needs to use natural resources and the SMFE communities as leaders among suppliers in the local market for the sustainable development of LED and SMFEs, alongside focusing on preserving and taking initiatives to develop. This study discusses several practical implications for policymakers, business owners, and academics, with recommendations for future research.
Lignocellulosic Corn Stover Biomass Pre-Treatment by Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) for Biomethane Production Process by Bioresource Anaerobic Digestion
Authors: Olugbemide Akinola David , Oberlintner Ana , Novak Uroš , Likozar Blaž
Published: September 2021

The valorization study of the largely available corn stover waste biomass after pretreatment with deep eutectic solvent (DES) for biomethane production in one-liter glass bioreactors by anaerobic digestion for 21 days was presented. Ammonium thiocyanate and urea deep eutectic solvent pretreatments under different conditions in terms of the components ratio and temperature were examined on corn stover waste biomass. The lignocellulose biomass was characterized in detail for its chemistry and morphology to determine the effect of the pretreatment on the natural biocomposite. Furthermore, the implications on biomethane production through anaerobic digestion with different loadings of corn stover biomass at 35 g/L and 50 g/L were tested. The results showed an increase of 48% for a cumulative biomethane production for a DES-pretreated biomass, using a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:2 at 100 °C for 60 min, which is a strong indication that DES-pretreatment significantly enhanced biomethane production.
Potential Impact of Consumer Intention on Generation of Waste Photovoltaic Panels: A Case Study for Tokyo
Authors: Murakami Shinsuke , Yamamoto Haruhisa , Toyota Terufumi
Published: September 2021

As the world moves toward decarbonization, Japan is experiencing a rapid introduction of solar modules. However, the country does not have an adequate social system for managing waste photovoltaic (PV) panels. A waste generation estimate would be needed to do this effectively. Usually, waste generation estimation is performed by assuming that the lifespan distribution is primarily dependent on the mechanical life of the target item. However, considering the continuing improvement in panel quality, consumers consider replacement or disposal before mechanical failure of the product. Therefore, to study consumer intention, we surveyed potential consumer decision making on replacement/disposal via a questionnaire survey and attempted to include the result as part of our waste panel generation estimation, which, to our knowledge, has never previously been carried out. Considering the owners’ decision making, waste panel generation was in advance compared with the case where we only assumed the mechanical failure of panels and housings. This indicated a huge number of potentially reusable panel generations. In addition to mechanical failure, waste panel generation due to owners’ decisions should also be considered for estimating maximum potential waste. Policy makers should prepare the appropriate recycling social system in advance, considering the possible reuse of panels, which fits the current social situation oriented toward a circular economy.
Assessment in Higher Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Authors: Montenegro-Rueda Marta , Luque-de la Rosa Antonio , Sarasola Sánchez-Serrano José Luis , Fernández-Cerero José
Published: September 2021

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of students have been affected by the closure of educational institutions. This has forced a shift from face-to-face to distance education, facing numerous emergency educational measures, such as online assessment. This study aims to present a systematic review of the literature on the impact of assessment in higher education during the pandemic. The study has followed the methodology set out in the PRISMA statement, and includes 13 studies selected from a total of 51. The results indicate that faculty and students have faced numerous challenges in moving to virtual environments; on the faculty side the lack of training in online assessment techniques is the main problem, on the students’ side there is dishonesty and misconduct. However, it is concluded that continuous assessment, not focused on exams, but in a more qualitative way is the best way to assess at a distance.
Evolution of Standardized Specifications on Materials, Manufacturing and In-Service Inspection of Nuclear Reactor Vessels
Authors: Rodríguez-Prieto Alvaro , Camacho Ana María , Mendoza Carlos , Kickhofel John , Lomonaco Guglielmo
Published: September 2021

The cataloguing and revision of reactor pressure vessels (RPV) manufacturing and in-service inspection codes and their standardized material specifications—as a technical heritage—are essential for understanding the historical evolution of criteria and for enabling the comparison of the various national regulations, integrating the most relevant results from the scientific research. The analysis of the development of documents including standardized requirements and the comparison of regulations is crucial to be able to implement learned lessons and comprehend the progress of increasingly stringent safety criteria, contributing to sustainable nuclear power generation in the future. A novel methodology is presented in this work where a thorough review of the regulations and technical codes for the manufacture and in-service inspection of RPVs, considering the implementation of scientific advances, is performed. In addition, an analysis focused on the differences between irradiation embrittlement prediction models and acceptance criteria for detected defects (both during manufacturing and in-service inspection) described by the different technical codes as required by different national regulations such as American, German, French or Russian is performed. The most stringent materials requirements for RPV manufacturing are provided by the American and German codes. The French code is the most stringent with respect to the reference defect size using as a criterion in the in-service inspection.
Multi-Criteria Analysis of Green Bonds: Hybrid Multi-Method Applications
Authors: Lombardi Netto Antonio , Salomon Valerio Antonio Pamplona , Ortiz Barrios Miguel Angel
Published: September 2021

There is an increasing pressure by the community and customers forcing companies to insert environmental concerns in their practices. To help companies initiatives, the green bonds market was created. Our research question is “How to select bonds in a growing billion-dollar market?” This paper presents a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) model to enable investors identify opportunities based not only in opinions, but grounded on objective facts. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP), complex proportional assessment (COPRAS), full consistency method (FUCOM), step-wise Weights Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA), and technique of order preference similarity to the ideal solution (TOPSIS) are MCDA methods applied in this paper. Top-fifteen green bonds ranked by specialized media were assessed with the proposed MCDA model. Criteria included the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) proposed by Yale University, and common financial indicators as assets, risks (β), and dividends. The new ranks from MCDA are compared each other and compared with the rank published by specialized media.
Cluster Internationalization: Qualitative Review, Theoretical Direction, and the Rise of Emerging Markets’ Themes
Authors: Chen Yantai , Li Jing , Li Ruoying
Published: September 2021

The growing phenomenon of cluster internationalization has enriched the existing international business theories, but has also brought new puzzles and problems for these theories and perspectives. To synthesize what we do and do not know concerning cluster internationalization, we employed the qualitative content analysis method, systematically reviewing 348 articles published during the period 1990–2019, as well as 16,486 references. Our review examined five major areas, including citations, co-citations, theoretical foundations, co-occurrence networks, and three-phase research topics (pre-internationalization, internationalization, and post-internationalization) based on ten keywords. Moreover, we found that the research on the internationalization of emerging market clusters has shown a rising trend in recent years. We took China as an example to conduct in-depth research on three types of cluster internationalization (inward internationalization, outward internationalization, and overseas parks) with a view to expanding the academic perspective of the internationalization of emerging economic clusters. Finally, in order to promote further research on cluster internationalization, potential future themes related to cluster internationalization research are discussed.
Corporate Social Responsibility, Audit Committee Expertise, and Financial Reporting: Empirical Evidence from Korea
Authors: Ryu Haeyoung , Chae Soo-Joon , Song Bomi
Published: September 2021

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) involves multiple activities and is influenced by the cultural and legal environment of the country in which a firm is located. This study examines the role of audit committees’ (AC) financial expertise in the relationship between CSR and the earnings quality of Korean firms with high levels of CSR. Using a multivariate analysis, it investigates whether the ACs that include members with accounting expertise, finance expertise, or supervisory expertise individually affect a firm’s decision making. It also examines how ACs with diverse expertise contribute toward improving the financial reporting quality of firms with high levels of CSR. The results demonstrate that when there is a certified accountant in the AC of a firm that practices CSR based on ethical motivation, the earnings management through discretionary accruals is more strictly controlled. This is more effective when the AC comprises members with accounting and non-accounting expertise. This finding implies that the AC plays a positive role in improving the accounting information quality of firms with CSR excellence. Moreover, while the role of accounting experts in the AC is important for maintaining high earnings quality, combining other types of expertise creates synergy.
Novel Coordination Mode in the Potassium Mefenamate Trihydrate Polymeric Structure
Authors: Krawczyk Marta S. , Majerz Irena
Published: September 2021

As a result of the synthesis of mefenamic acid with potassium hydroxide, a salt with a polymeric structure is formed. The one-dimensional polymeric structure was studied by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The potassium cation is coordinated to one oxygen atom of the carboxylate group and six water oxygen atoms. Potassium ions are bridged by oxygen atoms of water molecules. The crystal structure was used as an input to QTAIM and NCI approaches to investigate the K-O interactions linking the cation with the water oxygen and carboxylate groups. The weak K-O interactions of the potassium cation and water oxygen atoms were strong enough to form a polymeric structure. The flexibility of the weak interactions is responsible for a novel coordination mode in the potassium mefenamate trihydrate.
COVID-19 Vaccines for HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Plummer Maria M. , Pavia Charles S.
Published: September 2021

Nearly 40 years have passed since the initial cases of infection with the human mmunodeficiency virus (HIV) were identified as a new disease entity and the cause of acquired immunodeficiency disease (AIDS). This virus, unlike any other, is capable of causing severe suppression of our adaptive immune defense mechanisms by directly infecting and destroying helper T cells leading to increased susceptibility to a wide variety of microbial pathogens, especially those considered to be intracellular or opportunistic. After T cells are infected, HIV reproduces itself via a somewhat unique mechanism involving various metabolic steps, which includes the use of a reverse transcriptase enzyme that enables the viral RNA to produce copies of its complementary DNA. Subsequent physiologic steps lead to the production of new virus progeny and the eventual death of the invaded T cell. Fortunately, both serologic and molecular tests (such as PCR) can be used to confirm the diagnosis of an HIV infection. In the wake of the current COVID-19 pandemic, it appears that people living with HIV/AIDS are equally or slightly more susceptible to the etiologic agent, SARS-CoV-2, than the general population having intact immune systems, but they may have more serious outcomes. Limited clinical trials have also shown that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines are both safe and effective in affording protection to HIV/AIDS patients. In this review, we further explore the unique dynamic of HIV/AIDS in the context of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of vaccines as a protective measure against COVID-19, as well as what immune parameters and safeguards should be monitored in this immunocompromised group following vaccination.
Markers of Gut Barrier Function and Microbial Translocation Associate with Lower Gut Microbial Diversity in People with HIV
Authors: Ellis Ronald J. , Iudicello Jennifer E. , Heaton Robert K. , Isnard Stéphane , Lin John , Routy Jean-Pierre , Gianella Sara , Hoenigl Martin , Knight Rob
Published: September 2021

People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PWH) have reduced gut barrier integrity (“leaky gut”) that permits diffusion of microbial antigens (microbial translocation) such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into the circulation, stimulating inflammation. A potential source of this disturbance, in addition to gut lymphoid tissue CD4+ T-cell depletion, is the interaction between the gut barrier and gut microbes themselves. We evaluated the relationship of gut barrier integrity, as indexed by plasma occludin levels (higher levels corresponding to greater loss of occludin from the gut barrier), to gut microbial diversity. PWH and people without HIV (PWoH) participants were recruited from community sources and provided stool, and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing was used to characterize the gut microbiome. Microbial diversity was indexed by Faith’s phylogenetic diversity (PD). Participants were 50 PWH and 52 PWoH individuals, mean ± SD age 45.6 ± 14.5 years, 28 (27.5%) women, 50 (49.0%) non-white race/ethnicity. PWH had higher gut microbial diversity (Faith’s PD 14.2 ± 4.06 versus 11.7 ± 3.27; p = 0.0007), but occludin levels were not different (1.84 ± 0.311 versus 1.85 ± 0.274; p = 0.843). Lower gut microbial diversity was associated with higher plasma occludin levels in PWH (r = −0.251; p = 0.0111), but not in PWoH. A multivariable model demonstrated an interaction (p = 0.0459) such that the correlation between Faith’s PD and plasma occludin held only for PWH (r = −0.434; p = 0.0017), but not for PWoH individuals (r = −0.0227; p = 0.873). The pattern was similar for Shannon alpha diversity. Antiretroviral treatment and viral suppression status were not associated with gut microbial diversity (ps > 0.10). Plasma occludin levels were not significantly related to age, sex or ethnicity, nor to current or nadir CD4 or plasma viral load. Higher occludin levels were associated with higher plasma sCD14 and LPS, both markers of microbial translocation. Together, the findings suggest that damage to the gut epithelial barrier is an important mediator of microbial translocation and inflammation in PWH, and that reduced gut microbiome diversity may have an important role.
The Not-So-Good, the Bad and the Ugly: HPV E5, E6 and E7 Oncoproteins in the Orchestration of Carcinogenesis
Authors: Basukala Om , Banks Lawrence
Published: September 2021

Infection with HPV starts with the access of the viral particles to basal cells in the epidermis, potentially via microtraumas to the skin. The basal cells are able to keep away these pathogens in normal circumstances through a robust immune response from the host, as HPV infections are, in general, cleared within 2 to 3 weeks. However, the rare instances of persistent infection and/or in cases where the host immune system is compromised are major risk factors for the development of lesions potentially leading to malignancy. Evolutionarily, obligatory pathogens such as HPVs would not be expected to risk exposing the host to lethal cancer, as this would entail challenging their own life cycle, but infection with these viruses is highly correlated with cancer and malignancy—as in cancer of the cervix, which is almost always associated with these viruses. Despite this key associative cause and the availability of very effective vaccines against these viruses, therapeutic interventions against HPV-induced cancers are still a challenge, indicating the need for focused translational research. In this review, we will consider the key roles that the viral proteins play in driving the host cells to carcinogenesis, mainly focusing on events orchestrated by early proteins E5, E6 and E7—the not-so-good, the bad and the ugly—and discuss and summarize the major events that lead to these viruses mechanistically corrupting cellular homeostasis, giving rise to cancer and malignancy.
Clinical, Virologic and Immunologic Correlates of Breast Milk Acquired Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infections in Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW) Infants in a Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Setting
Authors: Hernandez-Alvarado Nelmary , Shanley Ryan , Schleiss Mark , Ericksen Jensina , Wassenaar Jenna , Webo Lulua , Bodin Katherine , Parsons Katelyn , Osterholm Erin
Published: September 2021

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections acquired by very-low-birthweight (VLBW) infants are incompletely characterized. To examine CMV transmission in VLBW infants, we evaluated maternal DNAlactia, infant DNAemia, and presence of clinical disease in a blinded study in VLBW infants in our newborn intensive care unit (NICU). To examine these issues, 200 VLBW infants were enrolled in a surveillance study, with weekly breast milk and infant whole blood samples collected, as available. Virologic (breast milk and infant whole blood real time PCR) and immunologic (IgG, IgM, and IgG avidity) correlates were evaluated. A chart review examined whether infants had symptoms compatible with CMV disease. DNAlactia was identified in 65/150 (43%) of lactating mothers. Nine CMV infections were identified in 9/75 CMV-exposed infants (12% of exposed infants). A higher median breast milk viral load (DNAlactia) correlated with an increased likelihood of DNAemia (p = 0.05). Despite potential symptoms compatible with CMV infection, clinicians had not considered the diagnosis of CMV in 6/9 cases (66%). All of these infants had chronic lung disease at discharge. There was no correlation between IgG antibody titer or IgG avidity index and the likelihood of transmission or CMV disease. In conclusion, in VLBW infants receiving milk from seropositive mothers, CMV infections are commonly acquired, and are frequently unrecognized. Future studies are needed to determine whether routine surveillance for CMV of either breast milk or infant plasma is beneficial in preventing or recognizing infection.
A Case of In Situ Phage Therapy against Staphylococcus aureus in a Bone Allograft Polymicrobial Biofilm Infection: Outcomes and Phage-Antibiotic Interactions
Authors: Van Nieuwenhuyse Brieuc , Galant Christine , Brichard Bénédicte , Docquier Pierre-Louis , Djebara Sarah , Pirnay Jean-Paul , Van der Linden Dimitri , Merabishvili Maya , Chatzis Olga
Published: September 2021

Phage therapy (PT) shows promising potential in managing biofilm infections, which include refractory orthopedic infections. We report the case of a 13-year-old girl who developed chronic polymicrobial biofilm infection of a pelvic bone allograft after Ewing’s sarcoma resection surgery. Chronic infection by Clostridium hathewayi, Proteus mirabilis and Finegoldia magna was worsened by methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus exhibiting an inducible Macrolides-Lincosamides-Streptogramin B resistance phenotype (iMLSB). After failure of conventional conservative treatment, combination of in situ anti-S. aureus PT with surgical debridement and intravenous antibiotic therapy led to marked clinical and microbiological improvement, yet failed to prevent a recurrence of infection on the midterm. This eventually led to surgical graft replacement. Multiple factors can explain this midterm failure, among which incomplete coverage of the polymicrobial infection by PT. Indeed, no phage therapy against C. hathewayi, P. mirabilis or F. magna could be administered. Phage-antibiotic interactions were investigated using OmniLog® technology. Our results suggest that phage-antibiotic interactions should not be considered “unconditionally synergistic”, and should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Specific pharmacodynamics of phages and antibiotics might explain these differences. More than two years after final graft replacement, the patient remains cured of her sarcoma and no further infections occurred.
Is It All a Conspiracy? Conspiracy Theories and People’s Attitude to COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Yang Zheng , Luo Xi , Jia Hepeng
Published: September 2021

A large body of research has found that people’s beliefs in conspiracy theories about infectious diseases negatively impacts their health behaviors concerning vaccination. Conspiracy belief-based vaccination hesitancy has become more rampant after the global outbreak of COVID-19. However, some important questions remain unanswered. For instance, do different versions of conspiracy theories—particularly conspiracy theories about the origin of the epidemic (e.g., that the SARS-CoV-2 leaked from a Wuhan virology laboratory or that the virus was of foreign origin) and the general theories about vaccine conspiracies (e.g., pharmaceutical companies covered up the danger of vaccines or people are being deceived about the effectiveness of vaccines)—have the same effect on vaccination intentions? Through a national survey adopting quota sampling in China, the current study tested the relationship between people’s conspiracy beliefs and their intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. The findings show that people’s embrace of conspiracy theories did indeed affect their intention to take COVID-19 shots. However, only conspiracy theories related to vaccines had a significant impact, while belief in more general theories about COVID-19 did not significantly affect vaccination intentions. People’s knowledge of vaccines (vaccine literacy) played an important role in this relationship. People with lower beliefs in vaccines conspiracy theories and higher levels of vaccine literacy were more likely to receive the COVID-19 vaccination.
Shooting at a Moving Target—Effectiveness and Emerging Challenges for SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Development
Authors: Günl Franziska , Mecate-Zambrano Angeles , Rehländer Selina , Hinse Saskia , Ludwig Stephan , Brunotte Linda
Published: September 2021

Since late 2019 the newly emerged pandemic SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, has hit the world with recurring waves of infections necessitating the global implementation of non-pharmaceutical interventions, including strict social distancing rules, the wearing of masks and the isolation of infected individuals in order to restrict virus transmissions and prevent the breakdown of our healthcare systems. These measures are not only challenging on an economic level but also have a strong impact on social lifestyles. Using traditional and novel technologies, highly efficient vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 were developed and underwent rapid clinical evaluation and approval to accelerate the immunization of the world population, aiming to end the pandemic and return to normality. However, the emergence of virus variants with improved transmission, enhanced fitness and partial immune escape from the first generation of vaccines poses new challenges, which are currently being addressed by scientists and pharmaceutical companies all over the world. In this ongoing pandemic, the evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines underlies diverse unpredictable dynamics, posed by the first broad application of the mRNA vaccine technology and their compliance, the occurrence of unexpected side effects and the rapid emergence of variations in the viral antigen. However, despite these hurdles, we conclude that the available SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are very safe and efficiently protect from severe COVID-19 and are thereby the most powerful tools to prevent further harm to our healthcare systems, economics and individual lives. This review summarizes the unprecedented pathways of vaccine development and approval during the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. We focus on the real-world effectiveness and unexpected positive and negative side effects of the available vaccines and summarize the timeline of the applied adaptations to the recommended vaccination strategies in the light of emerging virus variants. Finally, we highlight upcoming strategies to improve the next generations of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.
HSV-1 ICP22 Is a Selective Viral Repressor of Cellular RNA Polymerase II-Mediated Transcription Elongation
Authors: Isa Nur Firdaus , Bensaude Olivier , Aziz Nadiah C. , Murphy Shona
Published: September 2021

The Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1) immediate-early protein ICP22 interacts with cellular proteins to inhibit host cell gene expression and promote viral gene expression. ICP22 inhibits phosphorylation of Ser2 of the RNA polymerase II (pol II) carboxyl-terminal domain (CTD) and productive elongation of pol II. Here we show that ICP22 affects elongation of pol II through both the early-elongation checkpoint and the poly(A)-associated elongation checkpoint of a protein-coding gene model. Coimmunoprecipitation assays using tagged ICP22 expressed in human cells and pulldown assays with recombinant ICP22 in vitro coupled with mass spectrometry identify transcription elongation factors, including P-TEFb, additional CTD kinases and the FACT complex as interacting cellular factors. Using a photoreactive amino acid incorporated into ICP22, we found that L191, Y230 and C225 crosslink to both subunits of the FACT complex in cells. Our findings indicate that ICP22 interacts with critical elongation regulators to inhibit transcription elongation of cellular genes, which may be vital for HSV-1 pathogenesis. We also show that the HSV viral activator, VP16, has a region of structural similarity to the ICP22 region that interacts with elongation factors, suggesting a model where VP16 competes with ICP22 to deliver elongation factors to viral genes.
Fetal Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia and Hydramnios in a Quarter Horse Mare
Authors: Lanci Aliai , Ingallinesi Martina , Morini Maria , Freccero Francesca , Castagnetti Carolina , Mariella Jole
Published: September 2021

Hydramnios is an excessive accumulation of fluid within the amniotic compartment. It is a rare condition in mares, often associated with fetal anomalies. Hydrops of fetal membranes predisposes to the rupture of the prepubic tendon, and many authors suggest the induction of parturition to preserve mare’s reproductive career. This report presents the case of a 15-year-old multiparous Quarter Horse mare, referred at 268 days of gestation for suspected hydrops. Repeated ultrasonographic exams confirmed an increase in the depth of the amniotic fluid and reduced fetal viability. During the hospitalization, the mare developed a partial rupture of the prepubic tendon. In this case, a conservative approach was elected, and the mare was treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an abdominal support bandage. At 327 days of gestation, the mare gave birth to a foal with APGAR score 1. The resuscitation attempt was unsuccessful, and the foal died immediately. A post-mortem examination diagnosed a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) with pleuroperitoneal diaphragmatic eventration.
Immunohistochemical Markers of Apoptotic and Hypoxic Damage Facilitate Evidence-Based Assessment in Pups with Neurological Disorders
Authors: Orekhova Ksenia , Mazzariol Sandro , Sussan Beatrice , Bucci Massimo , Bonsembiante Federico , Verin Ranieri , Centelleghe Cinzia
Published: September 2021

Seizures in puppies often present a diagnostic challenge in terms of identifying and treating the underlying cause. Dog breeds with mutations of the MDR1-gene are known to show adverse reactions to certain drugs, yet metabolic imbalance exacerbated by physiologically immature organs and other contributing pathologies require consideration before arriving at a diagnosis. This study analysed the brains of two male, 5-week-old Australian Shepherd siblings that died after displaying severe neurological symptoms upon administration of MilproVet® to treat severe intestinal helminth infection. Despite the initial symptoms being similar, their case histories varied in terms of the symptom duration, access to supportive therapy and post-mortem interval. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were used to obtain more information about the phase of the pathological processes in the brain, employing protein markers associated with acute hypoxic damage (β-amyloid precursor protein/APP) and apoptosis (diacylglycerolkinase-ζ/DGK-ζ, apoptotic protease activating factor 1/Apaf1, and B-cell lymphoma related protein 2/Bcl-2). The results seem to reflect the course of the animals’ clinical deterioration, implicating that the hypoxic damage to the brains was incompatible with life, and suggesting the usefulness of the mentioned immunohistochemical markers in clarifying the cause of death in animals with acute neurological deficits.
Microalgae Growth Inhibition-Based Reservoirs Water Quality Assessment to Identify Ecotoxicological Risks
Authors: Rodrigues Sara , Pinto Ivo , Formigo Nuno , Antunes Sara C.
Published: September 2021

This work intended to assess the adaptability of bioassay with Raphidocelis subcapitata to be used as a complement to the water quality assessment parameters of reservoirs imposed by the European Water Framework Directive (WFD). Thus, water samples of Portuguese reservoirs (Miranda, Pocinho, Aguieira, and Alqueva) were analyzed in three sampling periods (spring and autumn 2019, and spring 2020). A physical and chemical report of waters was also performed. R. subcapitata assay proved to be sensitive, indicating the presence of a potential perturbation that was not always associated with chemical analysis performed. In general, in the spring samplings, the water samples showed more disturbances to R. subcapitata, which in some situations may be associated with the higher content of nutrients and metals. Microalgae assay can be an effective complementary tool to indicate the ecotoxicological potential since they responded quickly to all sample components of water samples, in a wide-ranging variety of water conditions (different sites in several reservoirs). High similarities between the final ecotoxicological and the ecological potentials, according to the WFD parameters, were detected. The ecotoxicological approach based on our results allowed to confirm that bioassays with R. subcapitata are suitable and sensible to detect perturbations.
O conhecimento e uso de métodos anticoncepcionais por mulheres nordestinas
Authors: Silva Ângela Walverlya Pinheiro , Cavalcanti Marília Abrantes Fernandes , Nascimento Ellany Gurgel Cosme do
Published: September 2021

Objetivou-se apreender o conhecimento e o uso de métodos anticoncepcionais entre mulheres em idade fértil. Realizou-se estudo transversal e descritivo, com abordagem quantitativa, incluindo 189 mulheres de 18 a 49 anos de 9 (nove) Estratégias de Saúde da Família da zona urbana do município de Pau dos Ferros, Rio Grande do Norte. Adotou-se a entrevista em domicílio e realizou-se análise descritiva e univariada dos dados. Observou-se conhecimento limitado sobre a variedade de métodos anticoncepcionais existentes e disponíveis na Atenção Básica e os respectivos efeitos colaterais, a elevada prevalência de gravidez precoce, o processo decisório do método anticoncepcional centrado na mulher, a fragilidade na orientação fornecida pela Política de Planejamento Familiar e a polarização do uso dos anticoncepcionais hormonais orais, do preservativo, dos injetáveis e da laqueadura. Portanto, faz-se importante a efetivação de uma assistência prestada no Planejamento Familiar que disponibilize recursos e informações de maneira eficiente, valorizando os critérios de elegibilidade dos métodos anticoncepcionais estipulados pela Organização Mundial de Saúde e valorize a aliança entre o profissional de saúde e o casal na promoção de uma vida sexual e reprodutiva saudável.
Câncer infantojuvenil: caracterização a partir da Classificação Internacional da Atenção Primária
Authors: Barros Mariana Boulitreau Siqueira Campos , Lima Thaís Maria Ribeiro , Silva Isabelle Maria Freitas , Santana Jocrasta Bispo , Morais Vera Lúcia Lins de , Bushatsky Magaly
Published: September 2021

Objetivo: caracterizar o câncer infantojuvenil conforme a Classificação Internacional da Atenção Primária (CIAP-2) em uma unidade de referência em Recife-PE. Método: trata-se de um estudo transversal de abordagem quantitativa, com entrevistas realizadas com os pais/responsáveis pelos pacientes em 2015. A sintomatologia relatada foi classificada conforme a CIAP em sua segunda versão, sendo os dados analisados em medidas absolutas e relativas. Tem aprovação pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa, CAAE 42167315.4.0000.5208. Resultados: predominância do sexo masculino, entre 15-21 anos, com diagnósticos de leucemia, tumores ósseos, linfomas, respectivamente. Conforme a CIAP-2, os sinais/sintomas mais citados foram os inespecíficos. Conclusão: por esta inespecificidade, urge a necessidade de alertar e capacitar os profissionais na suspeição precoce dos sinais e sintomas do câncer infantojuvenil, subsidiando assim um melhor prognóstico.

Descritores: neoplasias; saúde da criança; saúde do adolescente.
apoio institucional e as ações das equipes de saúde bucal na Atenção Primária à Saúde no Brasil
Authors: Souza Kellyn Rocca , Baumgarten Alexandre , Frichembruder Karla , Bulgarelli Patrica Távora , Santos Camila Mello Dos , Bulgarelli Alexandre Favero
Published: September 2021

Introdução: Analisar as ações do apoio institucional junto às equipes de saúde bucal no escopo da Atenção Primária no Brasil. Estudo transversal de base populacional. Desfecho construído a partir do conjunto de ações realizadas pelo apoio institucional nas Unidades de Saúde. Os dados foram analisados por meio de associações bivariadas por meio do Chi-quadrado. Desenvolvimento: A taxa de prevalência nacional do conjunto de ações do apoio institucional foi de 23,3%. As macrorregiões Nordeste (25,2%) e Sudeste (26,6%) apresentaram melhores resultados. Houve associação entre o conjunto de ações do apoio institucional com realização de discussão dos dados de monitoramento, participação em reuniões da equipe de atenção primária e planejamento e organização do processo de trabalho. Conclusão: Há necessidade de maiores investimento na implementação do apoio institucional em Unidades de Saúde qualificando processos de trabalho.
Educação em saúde para idosos de um grupo de terceira idade em Governador Valadares: enfoque no uso racional de medicamentos
Authors: Morais Karen de Toledo , Souza Sabrina Stefany da Silva , Silva Clarice Lima Álvares da , Ávila Thiago Vinicius , Ferreira Gabriella Freitas , Paula Patrícia Aparecida Baumgratz de , Vieira Liliana Batista , Alessandri Ana Leticia
Published: September 2021

Os idosos frequentemente apresentam doenças que requerem a utilização de vários medicamentos. Assim, estes indivíduos têm maior probabilidade de apresentar problemas relacionados ao seu uso, incluindo reações adversas, automedicação e uso incorreto. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar as atividades de educação em saúde, com enfoque no uso racional de medicamentos, desenvolvidas com um grupo de apoio à terceira idade conduzido pelo Serviço Social do Comércio (SESC) de Governador Valadares. As intervenções foram feitas através de ações individuais e coletivas conduzidas por professores e estudantes do Núcleo de Estudos da Pessoa Idosa (NEPI) da Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora campus Governador Valadares. Individualmente, os idosos responderam a um questionário estruturado para caracterização do perfil socioeconômico, demográfico, de saúde e uso de medicamentos que contribuiu para direcionar o planejamento das ações coletivas. As atividades coletivas foram realizadas através de jogos de tabuleiro, feiras, oficinas e rodas de conversa que abordaram temas incluindo automedicação; armazenamento e descarte de medicamentos; adesão ao tratamento medicamentoso. A experiência relatada promoveu impacto positivo no conhecimento dos idosos sobre o uso racional de medicamentos que pode contribuir para melhorar a qualidade de vida dessa crescente parcela da população. Além disso, as atividades possibilitaram uma importante troca de saberes que colabora na formação dos estudantes e os tornam mais conscientes às questões relacionadas ao envelhecimento e a saúde dos idosos.
Acolhimento na Atenção Primária à Saúde: revisão sistemática e metassíntese
Authors: Giordani Jessye Melgarejo do Amaral , Unfer Beatriz , Merhy Emerson Elias , Hilgert Juliana Balbinot
Published: September 2021

O objetivo do trabalho foi investigar as experiências e percepções dos profissionais da atenção primária à saúde sobre o acolhimento. Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática da literatura, de natureza exploratória, cujo delineamento é a metassíntese. Para a busca dos documentos foram utilizados os descritores Acolhimento e Atenção Primária à Saúde, em inglês, português e espanhol nas bases bibliográficas SCOPUS, WEB of SCIENCE, MEDLINE, SciELO, LILACS, BDENF e PAHO. Os dados foram analisados por meio da análise temática de Minayo. Foram selecionados 14 documentos para integrar a metassíntese. As concepções de acolhimento são manifestadas como um processo de receber o usuário a fim de escutá-lo, avaliando sua necessidade. As contradições revelaram que ainda existem dúvidas sobre a participação de todos os trabalhadores de saúde no processo de acolher o usuário. A produção científica possui uma característica brasileira e uma invisibilidade internacional. É necessário encarar o acolhimento como disparador de novos sentidos para a produção do viver e não só como ordenador de fluxos e decisões imediatas sobre a queixa do outro, pois como tecnologia de cuidado acolhimento vive na dobra entre acesso de um lado e terapêutica de outro.
educação pelo trabalho na Atenção Primária à Saúde: reflexões sobre a integração ensino-serviço-comunidade
Authors: Deagostini Israel Soares , Lima Pedro Henrique Oliveira , Medeiros Riane Souto , Freitas Eulilian Dias de , Nunes Lélia Cápua , Vieira Alexandra Paiva Araújo
Published: September 2021

O presente relato de experiência narra a vivência de inserção de discentes, preceptores e tutores na Atenção Primária à Saúde a partir do Programa de Educação pelo Trabalho para a Saúde - PET-Saúde/GraduaSUS no município de Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais. O grupo tutorial atuou no cotidiano de uma Estratégia de Saúde da Família e realizou diagnóstico e avaliação das fragilidades locais, em conjunto com a equipe de saúde e a comunidade. Em seguida, a partir da construção do planejamento foi implantado um projeto de intervenção, que focou na ampliação do acesso da população às informações sobre a Atenção Primária à Saúde, controle social e Sistema Único de Saúde e na reativação do Conselho Local de Saúde. Ficou evidente a necessidade da continuidade das ações e do fortalecimento da integração ensino-serviço-comunidade, com foco em processos de educação permanente, formação em saúde no cenário de prática, empoderamento dos usuários e melhoria da qualidade e acesso ao SUS.