bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of adjuvant effect of fosprenil on immunogenicity of vaccines against parvovirus enteritis and rabies in experiment
Authors:   Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune and Biological Products of Russian Academy of Sciences, Ozherelkov Sergey V. , Kozhevnikova Tatiana N. ,   Gamaleya Scientific Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology
Published: December 2020

To prevent most common viral diseases of small pets, vaccines are most often used that stimulate animal immune system and provide specific protection. Data on the adjuvant properties of well-known and widely used immunomodulator of natural origin, fosprenil, used in veterinary practice as an immunomodulator with antiviral activity for the correction of the immune response in various viral infections, during experimental immunization of BALB/mouse vaccines against dog parvovirus enteritis and rabies are presented in the article. It was shown that fosprenil use in animals at immunostimulating dose (5 pg/mouse) significantly enhances the effect of immunization with both vaccines. So, fosprenil significantly increases the titer of post-vaccination antibodies to standard liquid inactivated vaccine against parvovirus enteritis in dogs. In experiments with the rabies vaccine, it was found that the administration of fosprenil in animals along with vaccine not only contributes to significant increase in the titer of specific antibodies, but also to significant increase in coefficient of protective activity of rabies vaccine. Thus, fosprenil exerts an adjuvant effect on post-vaccination immunity caused by vaccination of mice with rabies and parvovirus enteritis vaccines.
Development and implementation of scientifically based technology of treatment of parasitoses of horses herd keeping in conditions of Yakutia
Authors:   Yakut Scientific Research Institute of Agriculture, Kokolova Lyudmila M. , Yakovleva Svetlana S. , Gavrilieva Lyubov Yu. ,   Yakut Scientific Research Institute of Agriculture
Published: December 2020

The article presents the regularities of the epizootic process of parasitosis of horses with herd content of horses in Yakutia. In the long process of tebenevka reduction of fatness of horses can lead to the disruption of their normal functioning, deteriorates the ability of tebenevka, reduced immunity, observed in mares abortion. The authors point out that in the best case, stallions can lose up to 10-12% over the winter, and mares up to 20-22% of the weight gained by them after summer feeding, to prevent the strong impact of cold factors of tebenevka on the body of animals, a scientifically based technology of complex therapy, with the organization of feeding, is recommended. The authors confirm that the factor providing intensive contamination of pastures by eggs and invasive larvae of helminths is the crowded content providing powerful growth of extensiveness and intensity of invasion in all livestock of horses lack of planned preventive and therapeutic deworming.
Analysis of methods of protection of farm animals against midges (review)
Authors:   All-Russian scientific research institute of veterinary entomology and arachnology, Serkova Margarita I , Sivkova Elena I. , Fedorova Olga A. ,   All-Russian scientific research institute of veterinary entomology and arachnology
Published: December 2020

One of the urgent tasks for the successful development of animal husbandry in the country is the elimination of the harm caused by blood-sucking diptera insects - hematophages and carriers of pathogens of a number of diseases dangerous to humans and animals, and the development of comprehensive measures to protect animals from them. In summertime the negative impact renders midges which consist of 4 families of blood-sucking insects - gadflies (Tabanidae), mosquitoes (Culicidae), midges (Simuliidae) and wood lice (Ceratopogonidae), and their almost universal distribution is very closely connected with existence nearby of swamps, marshy lowlands, various reservoirs and the rivers. Animals lose about 120-150 ml of blood during the periods of mass attacks - significantly affects the healthy state of the organism, the general resistance decreases, there is a risk of development of diseases of various etiology. Animals lose average daily weight gain, in particular it is noticeable in young animals. Gnat bites has irritant effect on the skin, until the formation of allergic dermatitis caused by saliva toxicity (after massive bites of midges simulidotoxicosis can develop). The insects of the gnats complex are carriers of pathogens of dangerous infectious and invasive diseases: anthrax, tularemia, necrobacteriosis, encephalitis, Omsk hemorrhagic fever virus, infectious anemia of horses, bluetongue, West Nile fever, Schmallenberg virus, leptospirosis, malaria, onchocerciasis, dirofilariasis. These factors add up to the overall economic damage, when during the summer period livestock farms receive less than 20-45% of meat products and 25-40% of dairy products. Thus, the direction of the fight against the vulture has economic feasibility for most countries of the world with developed agriculture, the veterinary need for quality products and is an urgent topic for conducting cost-effective production that can fully satisfy the needs of the population.
Грузинская диаспора на Северном Кавказе: некоторые аспекты духовной культуры
Authors: Синанов Борис Андреевич , Любовь Тимофеевна Соловьева
Published: December 2020

В жизни грузинской диаспоры Северной Осетии в последние годы важным событием стал праздник Ломисоба. Он проводится в первую среду после дня Святой Троицы в окрестностях селения Балта, расположенного на Военно-грузинской дороге. Истоки этого праздника уходят в грузинский регион Мтиулети, где местные жители почитают св. Георгия Ломисского, именной праздник которого – Ломисоба – ежегодно проводится в селении Млета. Грузины Балты, как и жители соседних селений Чми и Нижний Ларс, сохраняют в быту немало народных традиций из сферы духовной культуры (народные верования, семейная и календарная обрядность); отчасти этому способствует сохранение постоянных контактов c сородичами из соседних районов Грузии. Праздники в большинстве полиэтничных регионов Кавказа, как правило, всегда создавали благоприятные условия для общения представителей не только разных народов, но и разных конфессий. Как свидетельствуют собранные материалы, эта особенность праздничной культуры сохраняется и в наши дни.
In recent years, the Lomisoba holiday has become an important event in life of the Georgian diaspora in North Ossetia. It is held on the first Wednesday after the Holy Trinity (Troitsa) in the vicinity of the village Balta, located on the Georgian Military Highway. The origins of this holiday go to the Georgian region of Mtiuleti, where locals venerate St. George of Lomisy, whose personal holiday – Lomisoba – is held annually in the village Mleta. The Georgians of Balta, as well as the inhabitants of the neighboring villages Chmi and Nizhny Lars, maintain many folk traditions from the sphere of spiritual culture (folk beliefs, family and calendar rituals). This is partly due to the maintenance of constant contacts with relatives from neighboring regions of Georgia. As a rule, holidays in most of the multi-ethnic regions of the Caucasus have always created favorable conditions for communication between representatives not only of different peoples, but also of different confessions. According to the collected materials, this is still the case for the festive culture.
Effects of Co-culture on Improved Productivity and Bioresource for Microalgal Biomass Using the Floc-Forming Bacteria Melaminivora Jejuensis
Authors: Kim Dong-Hyun , Yun Hyun-Sik , Kim Young-Saeng , Kim Jong-Guk
Published: December 2020

Bacterial and algal floc formation was induced by inoculating three species of wastewater-derived bacteria (Melaminivora jejuensis, Comamonas flocculans, and Escherichia coli) into algal cultures (Chlorella sorokiniana). Bacterial and algal flocs formed in algal cultures inoculated with M. jejuensis and C. flocculans, and these flocs showed higher sedimentation rates than pure algal culture. The floc formed by M. jejuensis (4988.46 ± 2589.81 μm) was 10-fold larger than the floc formed by C. flocculans (488.60 ± 226.22 μm), with a three-fold higher sedimentation rate (M. jejuensis, 91.08 ± 2.32% and C. flocculans, 32.55 ± 6.33%). Biomass and lipid productivity were improved with M. jejuensis inoculation [biomass, 102.25 ± 0.35 mg/(L·day) and 57.80 ± 0.20 mg/(L·day)] compared with the productivity obtained under pure algal culture conditions [biomass, 78.00 ± 3.89 mg/(L·day) and lipids, 42.26 ± 2.11 mg/(L·day)]. Furthermore, the fatty acid composition of the biomass produced under pure algal culture conditions was mainly composed of C16:0 (43.67%) and C18:2 (45.99%), whereas the fatty acid composition of the biomass produced by M. jejuensis was mainly C16:0 (31.80%), C16:1 (24.45%), C18:1 (20.23%), and C18:2 (16.11%). These results suggest the possibility of developing an efficient method for harvesting microalgae using M. jejuensis and provide information on how to improve biomass productivity using floc-forming bacteria.
Case Report: Efficacy of Reduced Doses of Asfotase Alfa Replacement Therapy in an Infant With Hypophosphatasia Who Lacked Severe Clinical Symptoms
Authors: Fujisawa Yasuko , Kitaoka Taichi , Ono Hiroyuki , Nakashima Shinichi , Ozono Keiichi , Ogata Tsutomu
Published: December 2020

Background

Hypophosphatasia is a rare bone disease characterized by impaired bone mineralization and low alkaline phosphatase activity. Here, we describe the course of bone-targeted enzyme replacement therapy with asfotase alpha for a female infant patient with hypophosphatasia who lacked apparent severe clinical symptoms.

Case presentation

The patient exhibited low serum alkaline phosphatase (60 U/L; age-matched reference range, 520–1,580) in a routine laboratory test at birth. Further examinations revealed skeletal demineralization and rachitic changes, as well as elevated levels of serum calcium (2.80 mmol/L; reference range, 2.25–2.75 mmol/L) and ionic phosphate (3.17 mmol/L; reference range, 1.62–2.48 mmol/L), which are typical features in patients with hypophosphatasia. Sequencing analysis of the tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP) gene identified two pathogenic mutations: c.406C>T, p.Arg136Cys and c.979T>C, p.Phe327Leu. Thus, the patient was diagnosed with hypophosphatasia. At the age of 37 days, she began enzyme replacement therapy using asfotase alpha at the standard dose of 6 mg/kg/week. Initial therapy from the age of 37 days to the age of 58 days substantially improved rickets signs in the patient; it also provided immediate normalization of serum calcium and ionic phosphate levels. However, serum ionic phosphate returned to a high level (2.72 mmol/L), which was presumed to be a side effect of asfotase alpha. Thus, the patient’s asfotase alfa treatment was reduced to 2 mg/kg/week, which allowed her to maintain normal or near normal skeletal features thereafter, along with lowered serum ionic phosphate levels. Because the patient exhibited slight distal metaphyseal demineralization in the knee at the age of 2 years and 6 months, her asfotase alfa treatment was increased to 2.4 mg/kg/week. No signs of deterioration in bone mineralization were observed thereafter. At the age of 3 years, the patient’s motor and psychological development both appeared normal, compared with children of similar age.

Conclusion

This is the first report in which reduced doses of asfotase alfa were administered to an infant patient with hypophosphatasia who lacked apparent severe clinical symptoms. The results demonstrate the potential feasibility of a tailored therapeutic option based on clinical severity in patients with hypophosphatasia.
The Seasonal Distribution of a Highly Commercial Fish Is Related to Ontogenetic Changes in Its Feeding Strategy
Authors: Lloret-Lloret Elena , Navarro Joan , Giménez Joan , López Nieves , Albo-Puigserver Marta , Pennino Maria Grazia , Coll Marta
Published: December 2020

Improving the knowledge on the biology, ecology and distribution of marine resources exploited by fisheries is necessary to achieve population recovery and sustainable fisheries management. European hake (Merluccius merluccius) is one of the most important target species in the Mediterranean Sea and is largely overexploited by industrial fisheries. Here, we used two methodological approaches to further investigate the seasonal variation in the spatial distribution of European hake considering ontogenetic changes and trophic ecology in the western Mediterranean Sea. Our main aim was to explore if spatial changes in hake distribution were related to trophic behavior, in addition to key environmental factors. We employed a hierarchical Bayesian species distribution modeling approach (B-SDM), using spatial data from two oceanographic surveys conducted during winter and summer. We analyzed how the environmental variables, together with abundance and mean weight distribution of the main preys identified for European hake, affected the seasonal distribution of the species. Results revealed clear differences in the distribution of the European hake between seasons, which were indeed partially correlated to the distribution of their main preys, in addition to the environment. Stable isotope values and Bayesian isotopic mixing models (MixSIAR) revealed substantial seasonal and ontogenetic differences in trophic habits of European hake, partly matching the spatial distribution results. These findings could have implications for a future seasonal-based adaptive fisheries management, as local depletion of prey, or variation in size and condition may affect European hake presence in this area. Moreover, this study illustrates how the sequential application of methodologies provides a more holistic understanding of species seasonality, which is essential to understand the phenological processes of exploited species and their potential shifts due to environmental changes.
Spatial-Related Community Structure and Dynamics in Phytoplankton of the Ross Sea, Antarctica
Authors: Bolinesi Francesco , Saggiomo Maria , Ardini Francisco , Castagno Pasquale , Cordone Angelina , Fusco Giannetta , Rivaro Paola , Saggiomo Vincenzo , Mangoni Olga
Published: December 2020

The Ross Sea exhibits the largest continental shelf and it is considered to be the most productive region in Antarctica, with phytoplankton communities that have so far been considered to be driven by the seasonal dynamics of the polynya, producing the picture of what is considered as the classical Antarctic food web. Nevertheless, the Ross Sea is made up of a complex mosaic of sub-systems, with physical, chemical, and biological features that change on different temporal and spatial scales. Thus, we investigated the phytoplankton community structure of the Ross Sea with a spatial scale, considering the different ecological sub-systems of the region. The total phytoplankton biomass, maximum quantum efficiency (Fv/Fm), size classes, and main functional groups were analyzed in relation to physical–chemical properties of the water column during the austral summer of 2017. Data from our study showed productivity differences between polynyas and other areas, with high values of biomass in Terra Nova Bay (up to 272 mg chl a m–2) and the south-central Ross Sea (up to 177 mg chl a m–2) that contrast with the HNLC nature of the off-shore waters during summer. Diatoms were the dominant group in all the studied subsystems (relative proportion ≥ 50%) except the southern one, where they coexisted with haptophytes with a similar percentage. Additionally, the upper mixed layer depth seemed to influence the level of biomass rather than the dominance of different functional groups. However, relatively high percentages of dinoflagellates (∼30%) were observed in the area near Cape Adare. The temporal variability observed at the repeatedly sampled stations differed among the sub-systems, suggesting the importance of Long-Term Ecological Research (L-TER) sites in monitoring and studying the dynamics of such an important system for the global carbon cycle as the Ross Sea. Our results provide new insights into the spatial distribution and structure of phytoplankton communities, with different sub-systems following alternative pathways for primary production, identifiable by the use of appropriate sampling scales.
Impacts of Whale Watching on the Behavior of Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the Coast of Panama
Authors: Amrein Arielle M. , Guzman Hector M. , Surrey Katie C. , Polidoro Beth , Gerber Leah R.
Published: December 2020

Ecotourism focused on whales and dolphins has become a popular activity and an important source of revenue for many countries. Whale watching is vital to supporting conservation efforts and provides numerous benefits to local communities including educational opportunities and job creation. However, the sustainability of whale-based ecotourism depends on the behavior and health of whale populations and it is crucial that ecotourism industries consider the impact of their activities on whale behavior. To address this statement, we collected behavioral data (e.g., change in swimming direction, frequency of breaching, slap behaviors, diving, and spy hops) from humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the marine protected area of Las Perlas Archipelago off the Pacific coast of Panama. The goal was to determine if tourist vessel presence had an influence on whale behaviors. We conducted this study during the humpback whale breeding season from August through September 2019. Based on 47 behavioral observations, we found that higher boat density corresponded with humpback whales’ frequency of direction changes, which based on previous literature is believed to be a sign of disturbance. Alternatively, no changes in behavior were observed with varying boat density. This result is important given Panamanian regulations first implemented in 2007 by Resolution AMD/ARAP No. 01, 2007 prohibit whale-based tourism from disturbing whales, which is explicitly measured by changes in whale behavior. Because there is no systematic monitoring of whale watching activity to enforce the regulations, there is currently little compliance from tour operators and tourists. The integration of animal behavior research into management planning should result in more effective regulation and compliance of such conservation policies.
Low Genetic Diversity of the Endangered Franciscana (Pontoporia blainvillei) in Its Northernmost, Isolated Population (FMAIa, Espírito Santo, Brazil)
Authors: de Oliveira Vanessa K. M. , Faria Drienne M. , Cunha Haydée A. , dos Santos Teresa E. C. , Colosio Adriana C. , Barbosa Lupércio A. , Freire Mylla Carla C. , Farro Ana Paula C.
Published: December 2020

The franciscana,Pontoporia blainvillei, is the most endangered small cetacean in the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean, occurring from Itaúnas, Espírito Santo, Brazil to Chubut province, Argentina. This area is divided into four Franciscana Management Areas (FMA). The northern portion of this species distribution is not continuous and a previous genetic study using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) separated it into FMAIa (Espírito Santo state) and FMAIb (North of Rio de Janeiro state). In order to increase the information about this population we expanded the sample number and evaluated mitochondrial and nuclear DNA diversity. Samples of 68 franciscanas found stranded on beaches from 2005 to 2020 were analyzed. Analyses included 350 bp of the mtDNA control region (D-loop) and 12 microsatellite loci. We identified three control region haplotypes in FMAIa, two of them not previously observed in this population, one being a new haplotype. Haplotype and nucleotide diversities were 0.0408 and 0.00012 respectively, the lowest reported for all FMAs analyzed until now. The Neutrality tests were not significant and Mismatch Distribution analysis did not reject the hypothesis of population expansion. One of the microsatellite loci was monomorphic, and for the other loci, two to nine alleles were identified, with expected heterozygosities ranging from 0.306 to 0.801. No substructure was revealed and effective population size (Ne) was estimated in 117.9 individuals. Even with an increased sample size, the high mitochondrial genetic homogeneity suggested for the population in a previous study was confirmed. Among six loci previously analyzed in other franciscana populations, five showed the lowest observed heterozygosities for the Espírito Santo population. The novel microsatellite data also showed low genetic diversity and could not reject the hypothesis of a single, panmitic population along the coast of Espírito Santo. This species has been intensively impacted in the last years by incidental capture during fishing activities and habitat degradation, caused by pollution, coastal development and environmental disasters in FMAIa. Considering that this population is small, isolated, and with low levels of genetic diversity, we reinforce the necessity of different conservation actions, focusing mainly on the reduction of bycatch of this species in the region.
Microbial Keratinase: Next Generation Green Catalyst and Prospective Applications
Authors: Nnolim Nonso E. , Udenigwe Chibuike C. , Okoh Anthony I. , Nwodo Uchechukwu U.
Published: December 2020

The search for novel renewable products over synthetics hallmarked this decade and those of the recent past. Most economies that are prospecting on biodiversity for improved bio-economy favor renewable resources over synthetics for the potential opportunity they hold. However, this field is still nascent as the bulk of the available resources are non-renewable based. Microbial metabolites, emphasis on secondary metabolites, are viable alternatives; nonetheless, vast microbial resources remain under-exploited; thus, the need for a continuum in the search for new products or bio-modifying existing products for novel functions through an efficient approach. Environmental distress syndrome has been identified as a factor that influences the emergence of genetic diversity in prokaryotes. Still, the process of how the change comes about is poorly understood. The emergence of new traits may present a high prospect for the industrially viable organism. Microbial enzymes have prominence in the bio-economic space, and proteases account for about sixty percent of all enzyme market. Microbial keratinases are versatile proteases which are continuously gaining momentum in biotechnology owing to their effective bio-conversion of recalcitrant keratin-rich wastes and sustainable implementation of cleaner production. Keratinase-assisted biodegradation of keratinous materials has revitalized the prospects for the utilization of cost-effective agro-industrial wastes, as readily available substrates, for the production of high-value products including amino acids and bioactive peptides. This review presented an overview of keratin structural complexity, the potential mechanism of keratin biodegradation, and the environmental impact of keratinous wastes. Equally, it discussed microbial keratinase; vis-à-vis sources, production, and functional properties with considerable emphasis on the ecological implication of microbial producers and catalytic tendency improvement strategies. Keratinase applications and prospective high-end use, including animal hide processing, detergent formulation, cosmetics, livestock feed, and organic fertilizer production, were also articulated.
Stable Protein Sialylation in Physcomitrella
Authors: Bohlender Lennard L. , Parsons Juliana , Hoernstein Sebastian N. W. , Rempfer Christine , Ruiz-Molina Natalia , Lorenz Timo , Rodríguez Jahnke Fernando , Figl Rudolf , Fode Benjamin , Altmann Friedrich , Reski Ralf , Decker Eva L.
Published: December 2020

Recombinantly produced proteins are indispensable tools for medical applications. Since the majority of them are glycoproteins, theirN-glycosylation profiles are major determinants for their activity, structural properties and safety. For therapeutical applications, a glycosylation pattern adapted to product and treatment requirements is advantageous.Physcomitrium patens(Physcomitrella, moss) is able to perform highly homogeneous complex-typeN-glycosylation. Additionally, it has been glyco-engineered to eliminate plant-specific sugar residues by knock-out of the β1,2-xylosyltransferase and α1,3-fucosyltransferase genes (Δxt/ft). Furthermore, Physcomitrella meets wide-ranging biopharmaceutical requirements such as GMP compliance, product safety, scalability and outstanding possibilities for precise genome engineering. However, all plants, in contrast to mammals, lack the capability to performN-glycan sialylation. Since sialic acids are a common terminal modification on humanN-glycans, the property to performN-glycan sialylation is highly desired within the plant-based biopharmaceutical sector. In this study, we present the successful achievement of proteinN-glycan sialylation in stably transformed Physcomitrella. The sialylation ability was achieved in a Δxt/ft moss line by stable expression of seven mammalian coding sequences combined with targeted organelle-specific localization of the encoded enzymes responsible for the generation of β1,4-galactosylated acceptorN-glycans as well as the synthesis, activation, transport and transfer of sialic acid. Production of free (Neu5Ac) and activated (CMP-Neu5Ac) sialic acid was proven. The glycosidic anchor for the attachment of terminal sialic acid was generated by the introduction of a chimeric human β1,4-galactosyltransferase gene under the simultaneous knock-out of the gene encoding the endogenous β1,3-galactosyltransferase. Functional complex-typeN-glycan sialylation was confirmed via mass spectrometric analysis of a stably co-expressed recombinant human protein.
COVID-19-Related Restrictions and Quarantine COVID-19: Effects on Cardiovascular and Yo-Yo Test Performance in Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Albuquerque Freire Lucas de , Tannure Márcio , Sampaio Márcio , Slimani Maamer , Znazen Hela , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Aedo-Muñoz Esteban , Sobarzo Soto Dany Alexis , Brito Ciro José , Miarka Bianca
Published: December 2020

The present study aimed to verify the quarantine’s effects during a serious viral outbreak on the cardiovascular and performance associated with the Yo-Yo test in a sample of professional soccer players. 20 high-level soccer players (n = 20; age: 26 ± 4 years-old; weight: 76.85 ± 6.7 kg; height: 179 ± 6 cm) participated in this study. The intermittent Yo-Yo test was performed pre- and post- COVID-19 quarantine in a random order. During each test, the soccer players’ running performance outcomes were monitored using a portable 5-Hz GPS with a 100 Hz accelerometer and a paired t-test was conducted at a p-value of ≤ 0.05. The main results demonstrated significant differences between pre- versus post-COVID-19 quarantine in the following variables: relative distance (161.7 ± 5.9 > 141.1 ± 33.8 m/min), maximal speed (18.7 ± 0.9 > 18.2 ± 0.6 km/h), acceleration (60 ± 20 frequency > 52 ± 16 frequency), deceleration (34 ± 13 frequency > 27 ± 6 frequency), sprints > 19 km/h [0.8 (0.2;3)% >0.5 (0;0.5)%], and in high intensity running distance [16.48 (2.68;41.64)m > 0.827 (0.164;3.0)m]. We concluded that COVID-19-related restrictions and quarantine COVID-19 demonstrated adverse effects on professional soccer players’ Yo-Yo tests performance.
Alcohol Use and COVID-19: Can we Predict the Impact of the Pandemic on Alcohol Use Based on the Previous Crises in the 21st Century? A Brief Review
Authors: Gonçalves Priscila Dib , Moura Helena Ferreira , do Amaral Ricardo Abrantes , Castaldelli-Maia João Maurício , Malbergier André
Published: December 2020

The enormous health and economic challenges precipitated by the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic are comparable or even greater than those associated with previous historical world crises. Alcohol use, especially drinking to cope with stress, is a concern, as an increase in its sales has been reported in some countries during the quarantine. This study aims to provide a better understanding of what to expect in terms of alcohol consumption, risk factors for excessive use, and its potential consequences during this pandemic based on previous experiences. We investigated how traumatic events related to alcohol consumption. Studies on mass traumatic events (i.e., terrorism as 9/11), epidemic outbreaks (i.e., severe acute respiratory syndrome [SARS] in 2003), economic crises (such as 2008's Great Recession), and COVID-19 were selected. The main keywords used to select the studies were alcohol use, drinking patterns, alcohol use disorders, and alcohol-related consequences. Previous studies reported increases in alcohol use associated with those events mediated, at least partially, by anxiety and depressive symptoms, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Being male, young, and single also seems to be associated with a higher vulnerability to develop risky drinking behavior after those tragic events. The discussion of previous risk and protective factors can contribute to elaborate more specific public health policies to mitigate the impact of the current pandemic on people's mental health, especially alcohol-related problems.
Usefulness of Chest Ultrasonography in Predicting Diagnosis in Non-emergency Small Animal Patients With Lung Parenchymal and Pleural Disease
Authors: Lin Chung-Hui , Lo Pei-Ying , Lam Man-Cham , Wu Huey-Dong
Published: December 2020

Chest ultrasonography has become an indispensable tool for pulmonary specialists in human medicine, but its current use in dogs and cats is primarily for emergency. The diagnostic performances of various ultrasonographic features other than comet-tail artifacts are of limited information in veterinary literatures. Therefore, the aims of this retrospective study were to investigate ultrasonographic findings in feline and canine respiratory patients with lung parenchymal and pleural space diseases, and to assess how ultrasonographic features correspond to specific diagnoses. Sixty-five non-emergency cases with radiographically identified lung parenchymal and pleural space abnormalities were included. Medical records and ultrasound video clips were reviewed, and additional follow-up information was subsequently collected. Common findings such as comet-tail artifacts (87.7% of cases), consolidation (84.6%), and thickened/irregular pleura (69.2%) were not distinguishable for a specific diagnosis. The presence of nodular/mass-like lesion (OR = 212, p < 0.001) and consolidated lesion with heteroechogenicity (OR = 240, p < 0.001) was significantly associated with and strongly predictive of neoplasia after age, body weight and other sonographic findings were adjusted. The finding of nodular/mass-like lesion has the best diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.93) for neoplasia, with sensitivity of 91.7% and specificity of 93.6%. For predicting a diagnosis of pneumonia, although several sonographic features were found to be statistically associated with pneumonia, only a negative finding of nodular/mass-like lesion showed good diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.83, sensitivity 95.7%, specificity 71%). These findings demonstrate the value of chest ultrasonography in predicting diagnosis in non-emergency cases. The application of thoracic ultrasound in small animal respiratory patients as part of non-invasive assessment warrants further investigation.
Energy Transition in Aviation: The Role of Cryogenic Fuels
Authors: Rao Arvind Gangoli , Yin Feijia , Werij Henri
Published: December 2020

Aviation is the backbone of our modern society. In 2019, around 4.5 billion passengers travelled through the air. However, at the same time, aviation was also responsible for around 5% of anthropogenic causes of global warming. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the aviation sector in the short term is clearly very high, but the long-term effects are still unknown. However, with the increase in global GDP, the number of travelers is expected to increase between three- to four-fold by the middle of this century. While other sectors of transportation are making steady progress in decarbonizing, aviation is falling behind. This paper explores some of the various options for energy carriers in aviation and particularly highlights the possibilities and challenges of using cryogenic fuels/energy carriers such as liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Functional Beverages, from Idea to Functionality
Authors: Naumovski Nenad , Mellor Duane D. , Ranadheera Chaminda Senaka
Published: December 2020

The search for, and development of beverages that could be a panacea is one which is several millennia old [...]
Toward Spatial Identities in Human Brain Organoids-on-Chip Induced by Morphogen-Soaked Beads
Authors: Ben-Reuven Lihi , Reiner Orly
Published: December 2020

Recent advances in stem-cell technologies include the differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) into organ-like structures (organoids). These organoids exhibit remarkable self-organization that resembles key aspects of in vivo organ development. However, organoids have an unpredictable anatomy, and poorly reflect the topography of the dorsoventral, mediolateral, and anteroposterior axes. In vivo the temporal and the spatial patterning of the developing tissue is orchestrated by signaling molecules called morphogens. Here, we used morphogen-soaked beads to influence the spatial identities within hESC-derived brain organoids. The morphogen- and synthetic molecules-soaked beads were interpreted as local organizers, and key transcription factor expression levels within the organoids were affected as a function of the distance from the bead. We used an on-chip imaging device that we have developed, that allows live imaging of the developing hESC-derived organoids. This platform enabled studying the effect of changes in WNT/BMP gradients on the expression of key landmark genes in the on-chip human brain organoids. Titration of CHIR99201 (WNT agonist) and BMP4 directed the expression of telencephalon and medial pallium genes; dorsal and ventral midbrain markers; and isthmus-related genes. Overall, our protocol provides an opportunity to study phenotypes of altered regional specification and defected connectivity, which are found in neurodevelopmental diseases.
Enhancing the Economic Viability of Anaerobic Digestion by Exploiting the Whole Biomass of Mango Waste and Its Residues after Digestion
Authors: Alrefai R. , Alrefai A.M. , Benyounis K.Y. , Stokes J.
Published: December 2020

A significant expansion of anaerobic digestion (AD) processes would certainly result in a reduction in the current dependence on fossil fuels. The operational costs, the large amounts of digestate generated and the expenses of dealing with it and the volatility of the fuel indexes represent major environmental and economical challenges to the diffusion of AD. Increasing the bio-products of AD could possibly help in increasing its profitability and limit these challenges. This study investigates the influence of mango starch and seed coats on the biogas produced from mango waste. To overcome the environmental challenges, the digestate was tested and its bio-fertiliser potential proven. The study reached the conclusion that the effect of the starch on the AD biogas of mango waste is low while the effect of the seed coats is quite high. This finding supports further investigations to evaluate the effect of the production of mango starch and seed coat-based products on the profitability of AD. The highest energy balance achieved was 65% at 32 °C, 3.93 g-VS organic concentration and 37% sludge concentration, which yielded a maximum CH4 yield of 62.5%. This finding encourages the application of gate fees for accepting bio-waste, which may help in overcoming its economic challenges.
Small-Signal Modeling of PMSG-Based Wind Turbine for Low Voltage Ride-Through and Artificial Intelligent Studies
Authors: Nasiri Mojtaba , Mobayen Saleh , Faridpak Behdad , Fekih Afef , Chang Arthur
Published: December 2020

In recent years, due to the several advantages of permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG), the number of wind farms utilizing this technology has been significantly grown. The determination of the failure mechanism in these devices is the major challenge which has been addressed in many studies. Particularly, response to grid code compliance by wind power in the voltage drop situation needs to be comprehensively analyzed. In this paper, a small signal model of a PMSG-based wind turbine for low voltage ride-through (LVRT) and suitable for stability and artificial intelligent studies is presented. Accordingly, the generator side converter controls the dc-link voltage, and the maximum power point tracking is performed by the grid side converter. Given the proposed model, the speed of the simulation for stability analysis studies can be significantly increased by intelligent methods. Furthermore, the simplified approach can be achieved for calculating the optimal coefficients of the proportionality-integral controller by intelligent methods in a short time. By simulating the proposed small-signal model and comparing it with the block-based simulation in MATLAB/SIMULINK software, the appropriate accuracy and efficiency of the proposed model are confirmed.
Application of a Non-carrier-Based Modulation for Current Harmonics Spectrum Control during Regenerative Braking of the Electric Vehicle
Authors: Steczek Marcin , Chudzik Piotr , Szeląg Adam
Published: December 2020

The regenerative braking of railway vehicles is widely used in DC railway systems all over the world. This mode of operation provides an opportunity to reuse part of the energy consumed by vehicles, and makes the railway system more energy efficient. During regenerative braking, not only energy management is an issue, but also Electromagnetic Compatibility EMC issues, such as interference of generated current harmonics with a railway signaling system. In this paper, the selective harmonic elimination modulation technique (SHE-PWM) was introduced to the traction drive with a three-level inverter to reduce specific catenary current harmonics generated during regenerative braking. The simulation model of a traction drive appropriate for harmonics analysis was proposed and verified by the measurements in the low-power laboratory drive system. The model was re-scaled to the 3 kV DC system for further study. The model of an induction motor with electromotive force and the method of its calculation was proposed. Furthermore, an analysis of the braking chopper operation was carried out. The asymmetric control of braking chopper was proposed to reduce the current harmonics below limits during chopper operation.
Power Generation Prediction of an Open Cycle Gas Turbine Using Kalman Filter
Authors: Manasis Christos , Assimakis Nicholas , Vikias Vasilis , Ktena Aphrodite , Stamatelos Tassos
Published: December 2020

The motivation for this paper is the enhanced role of power generation prediction in power plants and power systems in the smart grid paradigm. The proposed approach addresses the impact of the ambient temperature on the performance of an open cycle gas turbine when using the Kalman Filter (KF) technique and the power-temperature (P-T) characteristic of the turbine. Several Kalman Filtering techniques are tested to obtain improved temperature forecasts, which are then used to obtain output power predictions. A typical P-T curve of an open-cycle gas turbine is used to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method. Nonlinear and linear discrete process models are studied. Extended Kalman Filters are proposed for the nonlinear model. The Time Varying, Time Invariant, and Steady State Kalman Filters are used with the linearized model. Simulation results show that the power generation prediction obtained using the Extended Kalman Filter with the piecewise linear model yields improved forecasts. The linear formulations, though less accurate, are a promising option when a power generation forecast for a small-term and short-term time window is required.
Energy—Water Nexus: Integration, Monitoring, KPIs Tools and Research Vision
Authors: Gabbar Hossam A. , Abdelsalam Abdelazeem A.
Published: December 2020

The relationship between water and energy is a strong one characterized as having integration and coupling as two important features. While energy is responsible for delivering water to the end-users, it needs energy in order to be generated, and water. In this paper, a thorough review is presented regarding the different relationships between water and energy in terms of (i) the significance of the close relationship between water and energy by means of water/energy generation and consumption. Water consumption, water cooling and heating must be taken into account in order to avoid the obstacles related to future use of water for energy generation; (ii) the measuring and monitoring technologies for the energy-water nexus, focusing attention on the variables that are interrelated in the water and energy sectors. In addition, the consequences of finding several parameters, unknown variables and unclear dependencies in measuring of energy usage in the applications of water usage should also be taken into account. Innovative developments including nanotechnology, biotechnology, and wireless networks, as sensor technologies, may resolve the challenges of sensing; (iii) the different key performance indication tools for assessing and quantifying this nexus by analyzing and categorizing recent case studies of the water energy nexus and applicable evaluation methods; and (iv) the different research dimensions conducted on this nexus. Hopefully, this review will contribute to the development of this nexus adding value to the field while reducing duplication efforts.
Single and Multiple Inoculum of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Strains in Table Olive Lab-Scale Fermentations
Authors: Lanza Barbara , Zago Miriam , Di Marco Sara , Di Loreto Giuseppina , Cellini Martina , Tidona Flavio , Bonvini Barbara , Bacceli Martina , Simone Nicola
Published: December 2020

In order to improve the olives’ quality, and to reduce the de-bittering time during the table olive fermentation process, it is necessary to pilot the fermentation by inoculating the brine with selected cultures of microorganisms. Some probiotic tests, such as resistance/sensitivity to antibiotics, bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity, growth at acidic pH, an auto-aggregation assay, and a test of the production of exopolysaccharides, were carried out in order to screen 35 oleuropeinolytic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum strains to be used in guided fermentations of table olives. On the basis of the technological and probiotic screening, we analyzed the progress of three different lab-scale fermentations of Olea europaea L. Itrana cv. olives inoculated with spontaneous, single, and multiple starters: jar A was left to ferment spontaneously; jar B was inoculated with a strongly oleuropeinolytic strain (L. plantarum B1); jar C was inoculated with a multiple inoculum (L. plantarum B1 + L. plantarum B51 + L. plantarum B124). The following parameters were monitored during the fermentation: pH, titratable acidity, NaCl concentration, the degradation of bio-phenols, and the enrichment rate of hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol in the olive’s flesh, oil and brine. The degradation of secoiridoid glucosides appeared to be faster in the inoculated jars than in the spontaneously-fermented jar. The production of hydroxytyrosol and ligstroside aglycons was high. This indicated a complete degradation of the oleuropein and a partial degradation of the ligstroside. The multiple inoculum ensured a complete debittering, and could give probiotic traits. The presence of L. plantarum B1 and B124 as a fermentation starter guarantees an optimal trend of de-bittering and fermentation variables, thus ensuring the production of a better final product. L. plantarum B51 could be considered to be a promising probiotic candidate for obtaining probiotic food of completely vegetable origin.
Anisotropic RANS Turbulence Modeling for Wakes in an Active Ocean Environment
Authors: Wall Dylan , Paterson Eric
Published: December 2020

The problem of simulating wakes in a stratified oceanic environment with active background turbulence is considered. Anisotropic RANS turbulence models are tested against laboratory and eddy-resolving models of the problem. An important aspect of our work is to acknowledge that the environment is not quiescent; therefore, additional sources are included in the models to provide a non-zero background turbulence. The RANS models are found to reproduce some key features from the eddy-resolving and laboratory descriptions of the problem. Tests using the freestream sources show the intuitive result that background turbulence causes more rapid wake growth and decay.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Malnutrition and Sarcopenia in a Daycare Facility: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Shiota Aya , Nakayama Naomi , Saito Yuki , Maeda Tamako , Maeda Yukie , Nakayama Kentaro
Published: December 2020

Malnutrition and sarcopenia are prevalent and growing health issues in older populations. Early detection is important to implement proper interventions. However, little is known about malnutrition and sarcopenia in daycare facilities, the most dominant long-term care service. In this study, the prevalence of and factors associated with malnutrition and sarcopenia in older individuals who commute to community daycare facilities were evaluated. The cross-sectional study included 62 older individuals screened for malnutrition and sarcopenia on their first day in a daycare facility in Japan. Daily physical activity and basal diseases were also evaluated. According to Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria, 40.3% (25/62) of patients were malnourished and 59.7% (37/62) were well nourished. The Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 evaluation found that 12.9% (8/62) of patients showed no sarcopenia, whereas 87.1% (54/62) had sarcopenia. The prevalence of well-nourished sarcopenic individuals was the highest (45.2% (28/62)), followed by malnourished sarcopenia individuals (40.3% (25/62)). All malnourished individuals were sarcopenic and 14.5% (9/62) were well nourished and nonsarcopenic. Daily physical activity was significantly lower among sarcopenic individuals. Subgroups showed no significant difference in comorbidities. The prevalence of malnutrition and sarcopenia was relatively high. Activity-related sarcopenia seemed to precede malnutrition. Early detection of malnutrition and sarcopenia in daycare facilities should be encouraged for early intervention.
Exploring the Impact of Internet Use on Memory and Attention Processes
Authors: Firth Josh A. , Torous John , Firth Joseph
Published: December 2020

The rapid uptake of the internet has provided a new platform for people to engage with almost all aspects of life. As such, it is currently crucial to investigate the relationship between the internet and cognition across contexts and the underlying neurobiological mechanisms driving this. We describe the current understanding of this relationship across the literature and outline the state of knowledge surrounding the potential neurobiological drivers. Through focusing on two key areas of the nascent but growing literature, first the individual- and population-level implications for attention processes and second the neurobiological drivers underpinning internet usage and memory, we describe the implications of the internet for cognition, assess the potential mechanisms linking brain structure to cognition, and elucidate how these influence behaviour. Finally, we identify areas that now require investigation, including (i) the importance of the variation in individual levels of internet usage, (ii) potential individual behavioural implications and emerging population-level effects, and the (iii) interplay between age and the internet–brain relationships across the stages of development.