bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics and Determinants of SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR Testing on Symptomatic Individuals Attending Healthcare Centers during 2020 in Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Pereira Felicidade Mota , Salomão de Araujo Aline , Catarina Martins Reis Ana , Santos da Hora Anadilton , Pinotti Francesco , Paton Robert S. , Vilas Boas Figueiredo Camylla , Lopes Damasceno Caroline , Carlos dos Santos Daiana , Souza de Santana Daniele , Freitas Sales Danielle , Ariana Andrade Brandão Evelyn , da Silva Batista Everton , Campos de Sousa Fulvia Soares , Santana Menezes Gabriela , Silveira dos Santos Jackeline , Gomes Lima Jaqueline , Tadeu Brito Jean , Dandara dos Santos Lenisa , Reboredo Luciana , Santana Santos Maiara , Kelly Astete Gomez Marcela , Freitas da Cruz Marcia , Rosa Ampuero Mariana , Guerra Lemos da Silva Mariele , S. da Paixão Melo Mariza , Ferreira da Silva Marta , de Jesus Gonçalves dos Santos Nadja , de Souza Pessoa Núbia , Silva de Araujo Ramile , de Macedo Godim Taiane , Fraga de Oliveira Tosta Stephane , Brandão Nardy Vanessa , Cristina Faria Elaine , Frederico de Carvalho Dominguez Souza Breno , Laís Almeida dos Santos Jessica , Wikramaratna Paul , Giovanetti Marta , Alcântara Luiz Carlos Junior , Lourenço José , Leal e Silva de Mello Arabela
Published: July 2022

RT-PCR testing data provides opportunities to explore regional and individual determinants of test positivity and surveillance infrastructure. Using Generalized Additive Models, we explored 222,515 tests of a random sample of individuals with COVID-19 compatible symptoms in the Brazilian state of Bahia during 2020. We found that age and male gender were the most significant determinants of test positivity. There was evidence of an unequal impact among socio-demographic strata, with higher positivity among those living in areas with low education levels during the first epidemic wave, followed by those living in areas with higher education levels in the second wave. Our estimated probability of testing positive after symptom onset corroborates previous reports that the probability decreases with time, more than halving by about two weeks and converging to zero by three weeks. Test positivity rates generally followed state-level reported cases, and while a single laboratory performed ~90% of tests covering ~99% of the state’s area, test turn-around time generally remained below four days. This testing effort is a testimony to the Bahian surveillance capacity during public health emergencies, as previously witnessed during the recent Zika and Yellow Fever outbreaks.
Cap Is the Protease of the Porcine Circovirus 2
Authors: Yang Xuechen , Yang Wei , Zhang Wei , Li Jiamei , Yang Guoyu , Zhao Shuhong , Zheng Yueting
Published: July 2022

Circoviruses are the smallest single-stranded DNA viruses that infect mammalian species, avian species, fish, and insects. The infections of circoviruses are known to be associated with a series of fatal diseases, but the protease of circovirus still remains unknown. In this research, we identified viral capsid protein (Cap) as the protease of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), to our knowledge the first circoviruses protease to be reported. First, we found that the expression of host proteins is affected due to PCV2 infection in the porcine kidney (PK-15) cells. Then, by proteomic analysis, 253 host proteins that were down regulated were identified due to direct or indirect effects of PCV2. Further, Cap expression, but not other ORFs of PCV2, significantly reduced both JMJD6 (bifunctional arginine demethylase and lysyl-hydroxylase) and CCT5 (the chaperonin containing TCP1 subunit 5) in PK-15 cells. Finally, the results in vitro hydrolysis assays demonstrated that Cap could directly degraded either JMJD6 or CCT5 with different catalytic efficiency. In summary, our study expands repertoire of PCV2 Cap and promotes the development of inhibitors toward the anti-PCV2.
Antiviral Effect of hBD-3 and LL-37 during Human Primary Keratinocyte Infection with West Nile Virus
Authors: Chessa Céline , Bodet Charles , Jousselin Clément , Larivière Andy , Damour Alexia , Garnier Julien , Lévêque Nicolas , Garcia Magali
Published: July 2022

West Nile virus (WNV) is an emerging flavivirus transmitted through mosquito bites and responsible for a wide range of clinical manifestations. Following their inoculation within the skin, flaviviruses replicate in keratinocytes of the epidermis, inducing an innate immune response including the production of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Among them, the cathelicidin LL-37 and the human beta-defensin (hBD)-3 are known for their antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. We assessed their role during WNV infection of human primary keratinocytes. LL-37 reduced the viral load in the supernatant of infected keratinocytes and of the titer of a viral inoculum incubated in the presence of the peptide, suggesting a direct antiviral effect of this AMP. Conversely, WNV replication was not inhibited by hBD-3. The two peptides then demonstrated immunomodulatory properties whether in the context of keratinocyte stimulation by poly(I:C) or infection by WNV, but not alone. This study demonstrates the immunostimulatory properties of these two skin AMPs at the initial site of WNV replication and the ability of LL-37 to directly inactivate West Nile viral infectious particles. The results provide new information on the multiple functions of these two peptides and underline the potential of AMPs as new antiviral strategies in the fight against flaviviral infections.
Ways to Eliminate Viral Hepatitis as a Global Health Threat
Authors: Flisiak Robert , Zarębska-Michaluk Dorota , Flisiak-Jackiewicz Marta
Published: July 2022

Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) have been recognized by the World Health Organization [...]
A Testing Campaign Intervention Consisting of Peer-Facilitated Engagement, Point-of-Care HCV RNA Testing, and Linkage to Nursing Support to Enhance Hepatitis C Treatment Uptake among People Who Inject Drugs: The ETHOS Engage Study
Authors: Conway Anna , Valerio Heather , Alavi Maryam , Silk David , Treloar Carla , Hajarizadeh Behzad , Marshall Alison D. , Martinello Marianne , Milat Andrew , Dunlop Adrian , Murray Carolyn , Prain Bianca , Henderson Charles , Amin Janaki , Read Phillip , Marks Pip , Degenhardt Louisa , Hayllar Jeremy , Reid David , Gorton Carla , Lam Thao , Christmass Michael , Wade Alexandra , Montebello Mark , Dore Gregory J. , Grebely Jason
Published: July 2022

This study evaluated HCV treatment initiation among people who inject drugs (PWID) following an intervention of campaign days involving peer connection, point-of-care HCV RNA testing, and linkage to nursing support. ETHOS Engage is an observational cohort study of PWID attending 25 drug treatment clinics and needle and syringe programs in Australia (May 2018–September 2019). Point-of-care results were provided to the nurse, facilitating confirmatory testing and treatment. The study aimed to evaluate treatment uptake and factors associated with treatment at 24 months post-enrolment. There were 317 people with current HCV infection and eligible for treatment (median age 43, 65% male, 15% homeless, 69% receiving opioid agonist treatment, 70% injected in last month). Overall, 15% (47/317), 27% (85/317), 38% (120/317), and 49% (155/317) of people with current HCV infection had initiated treatment at 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-months following testing, respectively. Homelessness (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 0.40; 95% confidence interval: 0.23, 0.71) and incarceration in the past 12 months (vs. never, aHR:0.46; 0.28, 0.76) were associated with decreased treatment initiation in the 24 months post-enrolment. This testing campaign intervention facilitated HCV treatment uptake among PWID. Further interventions are needed to achieve HCV elimination among people experiencing homelessness or incarceration.
Phosphomimetic S207D Lysyl–tRNA Synthetase Binds HIV-1 5′UTR in an Open Conformation and Increases RNA Dynamics
Authors: Cantara William A. , Pathirage Chathuri , Hatterschide Joshua , Olson Erik D. , Musier-Forsyth Karin
Published: July 2022

Interactions between lysyl–tRNA synthetase (LysRS) and HIV-1 Gag facilitate selective packaging of the HIV-1 reverse transcription primer, tRNALys3. During HIV-1 infection, LysRS is phosphorylated at S207, released from a multi-aminoacyl–tRNA synthetase complex and packaged into progeny virions. LysRS is critical for proper targeting of tRNALys3 to the primer-binding site (PBS) by specifically binding a PBS-adjacent tRNA-like element (TLE), which promotes release of the tRNA proximal to the PBS. However, whether LysRS phosphorylation plays a role in this process remains unknown. Here, we used a combination of binding assays, RNA chemical probing, and small-angle X-ray scattering to show that both wild-type (WT) and a phosphomimetic S207D LysRS mutant bind similarly to the HIV-1 genomic RNA (gRNA) 5′UTR via direct interactions with the TLE and stem loop 1 (SL1) and have a modest preference for binding dimeric gRNA. Unlike WT, S207D LysRS bound in an open conformation and increased the dynamics of both the PBS region and SL1. A new working model is proposed wherein a dimeric phosphorylated LysRS/tRNA complex binds to a gRNA dimer to facilitate tRNA primer release and placement onto the PBS. Future anti-viral strategies that prevent this host factor-gRNA interaction are envisioned.
Viral Nucleases from Herpesviruses and Coronavirus in Recombination and Proofreading: Potential Targets for Antiviral Drug Discovery
Authors: Wright Lee R. , Wright Dennis L. , Weller Sandra K.
Published: July 2022

In this review, we explore recombination in two very different virus families that have become major threats to human health. The Herpesviridae are a large family of pathogenic double-stranded DNA viruses involved in a range of diseases affecting both people and animals. Coronaviridae are positive-strand RNA viruses (CoVs) that have also become major threats to global health and economic stability, especially in the last two decades. Despite many differences, such as the make-up of their genetic material (DNA vs. RNA) and overall mechanisms of genome replication, both human herpes viruses (HHVs) and CoVs have evolved to rely heavily on recombination for viral genome replication, adaptation to new hosts and evasion of host immune regulation. In this review, we will focus on the roles of three viral exonucleases: two HHV exonucleases (alkaline nuclease and PolExo) and one CoV exonuclease (ExoN). We will review the roles of these three nucleases in their respective life cycles and discuss the state of drug discovery efforts against these targets.
Motivators and Barriers to HPV Vaccination: A Qualitative Study of Underserved Women Attending Planned Parenthood
Authors: Fields Emilia J. , Hopfer Suellen , Warren Jennifer R. , BeLue Rhonda , Lebed Joel , Hecht Michael L.
Published: July 2022

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. Disease-associated strains of HPV can cause genital warts and six cancer types. HPV-associated cervical cancer disproportionately impacts medically underserved women including Black and Latina women with respect to incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates. Although safe and effective vaccines are available, HPV vaccination rates remain low among low-income individuals and women of color. The current study examined individual and structural motivators and barriers to HPV vaccination among medically underserved women utilizing a Planned Parenthood health center in Southeast Pennsylvania. Guided by narrative engagement theory (NET), qualitative interviews (N = 24) were used to elicit HPV vaccine decision stories from both vaccinated and unvaccinated women. Using a phronetic iterative data analysis approach, we identified three motivators to vaccinate against HPV: (1) receiving an explicit vaccine recommendation from a healthcare provider (a structural determinant), (2) feeling empowered to take control of one’s health (an individual determinant), and (3) knowing someone infected with HPV (an individual determinant). Among unvaccinated participants, barriers to HPV vaccination included: (1) not receiving an explicit vaccine recommendation from a healthcare provider (a structural determinant), (2) low perceived risk for acquiring HPV or that HPV is not severe (an individual determinant), and (3) lack of maternal support to vaccinate (a structural determinant). Healthcare providers are optimally positioned to fill the gap in prior missed vaccine opportunities and empower women by recommending HPV vaccination.
An In-Silico Investigation to Design a Multi-Epitopes Vaccine against Multi-Drug Resistant Hafnia alvei
Authors: Alshabrmi Fahad M. , Alrumaihi Faris , Alrasheedi Sahar Falah , Al-Megrin Wafa Abdullah I. , Almatroudi Ahmad , Allemailem Khaled S.
Published: July 2022

Antimicrobial resistance has become a significant health issue because of the misuse of antibiotics in our daily lives, resulting in high rates of morbidity and mortality. Hafnia alvei is a rod-shaped, Gram-negative and facultative anaerobic bacteria. The medical community has emphasized H. alvei’s possible association with gastroenteritis. As of now, there is no licensed vaccine for H. alvei, and as such, computer aided vaccine design approaches could be an ideal approach to highlight the potential vaccine epitopes against this bacteria. By using bacterial pan-genome analysis (BPGA), we were able to study the entire proteomes of H. alvei with the aim of developing a vaccine. Based on the analysis, 20,370 proteins were identified as core proteins, which were further used in identifying potential vaccine targets based on several vaccine candidacy parameters. The prioritized vaccine targets against the bacteria are; type 1 fimbrial protein, flagellar hook length control protein (FliK), flagellar hook associated protein (FlgK), curli production assembly/transport protein (CsgF), fimbria/pilus outer membrane usher protein, fimbria/pilus outer membrane usher protein, molecular chaperone, flagellar filament capping protein (FliD), TonB-dependent hemoglobin /transferrin/lactoferrin family receptor, Porin (OmpA), flagellar basal body rod protein (FlgF) and flagellar hook-basal body complex protein (FliE). During the epitope prediction phase, different antigenic, immunogenic, non-Allergenic, and non-Toxic epitopes were predicted for the above-mentioned proteins. The selected epitopes were combined to generate a multi-epitope vaccine construct and a cholera toxin B subunit (adjuvant) was added to enhance the vaccine’s antigenicity. Downward analyses of vaccines were performed using a vaccine three-dimensional model. Docking studies have confirmed that the vaccine strongly binds with MHC-I, MHC-II, and TLR-4 immune cell receptors. Additionally, molecular dynamics simulations confirmed that the vaccine epitopes were exposed to nature and to the host immune system and interpreted strong intermolecular binding between the vaccine and receptors. Based on the results of the study, the model vaccine construct seems to have the capacity to produce protective immune responses in the host, making it an attractive candidate for further in vitro and in vivo studies.
Predictors of COVID-19 Vaccine Intention: Evidence from Chile, Mexico, and Colombia
Authors: Salazar-Fernández Camila , Baeza-Rivera María José , Villanueva Marcoantonio , Bautista Joaquín Alberto Padilla , Navarro Regina M. , Pino Mariana
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: Although the evidence is consistent that vaccines for COVID-19 effectively prevent severe illness or death, the rapid development of vaccines has led to increased beliefs about possible negative consequences and conspiracy theories about the vaccine. Several factors influence whether or not people decide to be vaccinated. Some studies suggest that our perception of what significant others do and think influences our behavior. (2) Methods: This study evaluates the predictive role of beliefs about negative consequences of the COVID-19 vaccine, conspiracy beliefs about this vaccine, and social influence on the intention to vaccinate against COVID-19 in three Latin American and Caribbean countries: Chile, Mexico, and Colombia. Using convenience sampling, 2075 adults from Chile (48.3%), Mexico (27.6%), and Colombia (24.6%) participated by answering an online questionnaire with variables of interest. (3) Results: Despite the differences between countries, the results showed that the proposed model is invariant and explains between 56–66% of the COVID-19 vaccination intent. Specifically, controlling for age, socioeconomic status, political orientation, and educational level, we found that beliefs about the negative consequences of the COVID-19 vaccine were the main predictor followed by social influence. Beliefs in conspiracy theories did not predict vaccination intention (4) Conclusions: Considering these variables in campaigns to boost vaccination intention is discussed.
SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Response against Mild-to-Moderate Breakthrough COVID-19 in Home Isolation Setting in Thailand
Authors: Mongkolsucharitkul Pichanun , Surawit Apinya , Pumeiam Sureeporn , Sookrung Nitat , Tungtrongchitr Anchalee , Phisalprapa Pochamana , Sayabovorn Naruemit , Srivanichakorn Weerachai , Washirasaksiri Chaiwat , Auesomwang Chonticha , Sitasuwan Tullaya , Chaisathaphol Thanet , Tinmanee Rungsima , Chayakulkeeree Methee , Phoompoung Pakpoom , Tangjittipokin Watip , Senawong Sansnee , Sanpawitayakul Gornmigar , Muangman Saipin , Mayurasakorn Korapat ,   on behalf of the Siriraj Population Health and Nutrition Research (SPHERE) Group
Published: July 2022

Background: In December 2021, Omicron replaced Delta as the dominant coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) variant in Thailand. Both variants embody diverse epidemiological trends and immunogenicity. We investigated whether Delta and Omicron patients’ biological and clinical characteristics and immunogenicity differed post-COVID-19 infection. Methods: This retrospective cohort study investigated the clinical outcomes and laboratory data of 5181 patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 (Delta, 2704; Omicron, 2477) under home isolation. We evaluated anti-receptor-binding domain immunoglobulin G (anti-RBD IgG) and surrogate viral neutralizing (sVNT) activity in 495 individuals post-COVID-19 infection during the Delta pandemic. Results: Approximately 84% of all patients received favipiravir. The median cycle threshold (Ct) values were lower for Omicron patients than Delta patients (19 vs. 21; p < 0.001), regardless of vaccination status. Upper respiratory tract symptoms were more frequent with Omicron patients than Delta patients. There were no significant associations between Ct and Omicron symptoms (95% confidence interval 0.98–1.02). A two-dose vaccine regimen reduced hospital readmission by 10% to 30% and death by under 1%. Anti-RBD IgG and sVNT against Delta were higher among older individuals post-COVID-19 infection. Older individuals expressed anti-RBD IgG and sVNT for a more extended period after two-dose vaccination than other age groups. Conclusions: After a full vaccination course, breakthrough mild-to-moderate Delta and Omicron infections have limited immunogenicity. Prior infections exert reduced protection against later reinfection or infection from novel variants. However, this protection may be sufficient to prevent hospitalization and death, particularly in countries where vaccine supplies are limited.
Neuromyotonia with Central Nervous System Lesions following Quadrivalent Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination
Authors: Hatami Maryam , Förster Moritz , Weyers Vivien , Räuber Saskia , Meuth Sven G. , Kremer David
Published: July 2022

Neuromyotonia is a rare peripheral nerve hyperexcitability syndrome often associated with antibodies directed against contactin-associated protein-like 2 and leucine-rich, glioma inactivated 1. The quadrivalent human papilloma virus vaccine Gardasil®, first approved in 2006, is known to be a highly effective prophylaxis against papillomavirus types 6, 11, 16, and 18. Molecularly, this non-infectious recombinant vaccine is based on purified L1 proteins from the human papilloma virus capsid. Since the approval of this vaccine, several studies have investigated its safety regarding the occurrence of autoimmune conditions following application. Here, we present the first case of neuromyotonia with active Gadolinium enhancing demyelinating central nervous system lesions following vaccination with Gardasil®.
Two Pediatric Cases of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome with Overlapping Neurological Involvement Following SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination and Unknown SARS-CoV2 Infection: The Importance of Pre-Vaccination History
Authors: Santilli Veronica , Manno Emma Concetta , Giancotta Carmela , Rossetti Chiara , Cotugno Nicola , Amodio Donato , Rotulo Gioacchino Andrea , Deodati Annalisa , Bianchi Roberto , Lucignani Giulia , Longo Daniela , Valeriani Massimiliano , Palma Paolo
Published: July 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 vaccine roll-out has been successful around the world. However, there are increasing concerns about adverse events. We report two pediatric cases of Multisystem-Inflammatory-Syndrome (MIS-C) with neurological involvement that occurred after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and unknown recent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Brain magnetic resonance revealed mild-encephalopathy with reversible-splenial-lesion in both cases and complete resolution within 4 weeks. In conclusion, this report aims to describe rare emerging clinical entities that can help pediatricians to make an early diagnosis and to provide appropriate treatment. Multisystem-Inflammatory-Syndromes following COVID-19 vaccination remain rare events. When a history of a recent contact with SARS-CoV-2 is present, a careful evaluation by the clinicians in charge of immunization activities is suggested prior to proceeding with the vaccination.
COVID-19 Outbreak and BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccination Coverage in a Correctional Facility during Circulation of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 Variant in Italy
Authors: Stufano Angela , Buonvino Nicola , Trombetta Claudia Maria , Pontrelli Daniela , Marchi Serena , Lobefaro Giuseppe , De Benedictis Leonarda , Lorusso Eleonora , Carofiglio Maria Teresa , Vasinioti Violetta Iris , Montomoli Emanuele , Decaro Nicola , Lovreglio Piero
Published: July 2022

Background. The recent spread of the highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) has raised concerns about protection against COVID-19 in congregate settings such as prisons, characterized by a high risk of transmission and possible difficulties in obtaining adequate vaccination coverage. The present study aims to investigate the spread of an outbreak of COVID-19 in an Italian correctional facility during the dominant circulation of the Omicron BA.1 variant, and also considers BNT162b2 mRNA vaccination coverage among inmates. A COVID-19 screening campaign by RT-PCR was performed on 515 detainees from 4–30 January 2022, in response to an outbreak that began in the correctional facility. Furthermore, 101 serum samples collected from healthy inmates 21 days after having received the second dose of the BNT162b2 vaccine were tested for neutralizing antibodies against both the wild-type SARS-CoV-2 strain and the Omicron BA.1 variant. The global attack rate during the study period was 43.6% (RR 0.8), progressively reducing from unvaccinated inmates (62.7%, RR 1.8) to those who had one dose (52.3%, RR 1.5), two doses (full cycle) (45.0%, RR 1.3), and the third dose (booster) vaccinated group (31.4%, RR 0.7). The percentage of SARS-CoV-2 positive subjects among unvaccinated inmates was significantly higher than in the other groups (p < 0.001), while no significant difference was observed between inmates with one or two vaccine doses. Only two of the positive inmates were hospitalized for COVID-19. The geometric mean titer of neutralizing antibodies in the tested sub-group after two doses of vaccine was lower than in previous studies against the wild-type virus, and showed a complete lack of neutralization against the Omicron variant in 92.1% of individuals. The findings support the need to prioritize vaccination in correctional facilities, as a public health measure to increase the protection of inmates and consequently of prison workers and the community against COVID-19, in coordination with the other prevention strategies.
The Willingness of the Healthcare Professionals Working in Healthcare Institutions to Accept the First Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine in Jordan: A National Survey
Authors: El-hneiti Mamdouh , Shaheen Abeer , Malak Malakeh Z. , Al-Hussami Rawan , Al-Hiary Sakher Salem , Elfalah Mutasem , Al-Hussami Mahmoud
Published: July 2022

Health workers play an important part as role models, advocates for vaccination, vaccinators and educators in a community. Furthermore, they are at high risk of being infected with COVID-19 as they are on the frontlines. Thus, this study purposed to determine the willingness of the healthcare professionals working in healthcare institutions to accept the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine in Jordan. A cross-sectional design and a convenience-sampling method were used to recruit the study population from different healthcare sectors. A web-based survey was used to collect data. Findings showed that 1594 healthcare professionals responded and 74% of them were aged less than 45 years. Almost 65% of the respondents were registered nurses and 68.4% of them were married. A total of 94.9% of the participants heard about the COVID-19 vaccine, but only 56.5% of them had had the opportunity to attend lectures/discussions about COVID-19 vaccine. Official government websites were the primary source of obtaining information about COVID-19 (36.3%). The willingness of acceptance rate of COVID-19 vaccine was 63%. There were positive correlations between vaccine acceptance and compliance toward COVID-19 infection control precautions (r = 0.119, p < 0.01), knowledge about COVID-19 (r = 0.256, p < 0.01), age (r = 0.170, p < 0.01), and years of experience (r = 0.105, p < 0.01). Furthermore, age, knowledge, and compliance were significant predictors of the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine. Thus, it is necessary to develop specific interventions for healthcare professionals with low acceptance rates and take into consideration the predictors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Further research is needed to explore the factors influencing the refusal of the COVID-19 vaccine by healthcare professionals.
ECDSA-Based Water Bodies Prediction from Satellite Images with UNet
Authors: Ch Anusha , Ch Rupa , Gadamsetty Samhitha , Iwendi Celestine , Gadekallu Thippa Reddy , Dhaou Imed Ben
Published: July 2022

The detection of water bodies from satellite images plays a vital role in research development. It has a wide range of applications such as the prediction of natural disasters and detecting drought and flood conditions. There were few existing applications that focused on detecting water bodies that are becoming extinct in nature. The dataset to train this deep learning model is taken from Kaggle. It has two classes, namely water bodies and masks. There is a total of 2841 sentinel-2 satellite images with corresponding 2841 masks. Additionally, the present work focuses on using UNet, Tensorflow to detect the water bodies. It uses a Nadam optimizer to reduce the losses. It also finds best-optimized parameters for the activation function, a number of nodes in each layer. This proposed model achieves integrity by embedding a security feature Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA). It generates a digital signature for the predicted area of water bodies which helps to secure the key and the detected water bodies while transmitting in a channel. Thus, the proposed model ensures the performance accuracy of 94% which can also work the same for edge detection, detection in blurred and low-resolution images. The model is highly robust.
The Growth of Vallisneria natans and Its Epiphytic Biofilm in Simulated Nutrient-Rich Flowing Water
Authors: Ren Liman , Gao Yan , Hu Zhixin , Jiang Xue , Yang Liuyan
Published: July 2022

This paper investigates the effects of water flow on the growth and physiological indicators of the submerged macrophyte, Vallisneria natans, and the bacteria and algae community composition on its epiphytic biofilm-covered leaves. The authors set up a simulated flowing water laboratory experiment testing high nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations. Total chlorophyll and dissolved oxygen (DO) was significantly enhanced, and turbidity was reduced, thereby accelerating the growth of V. natans. These experiments were compared to another set of observations on a static group. The accumulation of malonaldehyde (MDA) in the dynamic groups was significantly higher than that in the static group. As an antioxidant stress response, the total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) was also induced in plants exposed to nutrient-rich flowing water. The results of 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing analyses showed that the water flow increased the bacteria community diversity of biofilm-producing bacteria with N and P removing bacteria, carbon cycle bacteria, and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria on the epiphytic biofilm. This research determined that water flow alleviates the adverse effects of eutrophication when V. natans grows in water containing high N and P concentrations. Water flow also inhibits the growth of cyanobacteria (also referred to as blue-green algae) in epiphytic biofilm. The ecological factor of water flow, such as water disturbance and aeration measures, could alleviate the adverse effect of eutrophic water by providing a new way to restore submerged macrophytes, such as V. natans, in eutrophic water.
Trends and Climate Elasticity of Streamflow in South-Eastern Brazil Basins
Authors: Deusdará-Leal Karinne , Mohor Guilherme Samprogna , Cuartas Luz Adriana , Seluchi Marcelo E. , Marengo Jose A. , Zhang Rong , Broedel Elisangela , Amore Diogo de Jesus , Alvalá Regina C. S. , Cunha Ana Paula M. A. , Gonçalves José A. C.
Published: July 2022

Trends in streamflow, rainfall and potential evapotranspiration (PET) time series, from 1970 to 2017, were assessed for five important hydrological basins in Southeastern Brazil. The concept of elasticity was also used to assess the streamflow sensitivity to changes in climate variables, for annual data and 5-, 10- and 20-year moving averages. Significant negative trends in streamflow and rainfall and significant increasing trend in PET were detected. For annual analysis, elasticity revealed that 1% decrease in rainfall resulted in 1.21–2.19% decrease in streamflow, while 1% increase in PET induced different reductions percentages in streamflow, ranging from 2.45% to 9.67%. When both PET and rainfall were computed to calculate the elasticity, results were positive for some basins. Elasticity analysis considering 20-year moving averages revealed that impacts on the streamflow were cumulative: 1% decrease in rainfall resulted in 1.83–4.75% decrease in streamflow, while 1% increase in PET induced 3.47–28.3% decrease in streamflow. This different temporal response may be associated with the hydrological memory of the basins. Streamflow appears to be more sensitive in less rainy basins. This study provides useful information to support strategic government decisions, especially when the security of water resources and drought mitigation are considered in face of climate change.
Nitrogen Removal from the Simulated Wastewater of Ionic Rare Earth Mining Using a Biological Aerated Filter: Influence of Medium and Carbon Source
Authors: Chen Silin , Wu Chengxiu , Song Benru , Antwi Philip , Chen Ming , Luo Wuhui
Published: July 2022

In engineering application, a two-stage biological aerated filter (BAF) has been deployed to achieve the steady nitrogen removal of the wastewater from the mining area of ionic rare earth with a low carbon to nitrogen (C/N) ratio. However, the cost-efficiency of the medium and carbon source casts a shadow over further development. In this study, the influences of four media (i.e., volcanic, zeolite, quartz, and ceramisite) and three soluble carbon sources (i.e., acetate, glucose, and methanol) on the N removal were systematically compared. Applying volcanic and quartz showed a favorable start-up performance due to the biophilic surface and dense packing, respectively. However, regardless of medium type, with [NH4+-N]0 = 50 and [NO3−-N]0 = 30 mg/L, the C/N ratio of 3 was required to meet the discharge standards of NH4+-N, TN, and COD, and acetate was confirmed applicable for all the selected medium-packed BAFs. Introduction of sweet potato residues as the solid carbon source decreased the amount of added acetate by more than 13%. The 16S rRNA high-throughput gene sequencing revealed that Sphingomonas and Nitrospira were abundant in the aerobic stages of the volcanic and zeolite-packed BAFs, respectively. Such a community integrated with the extensively distributed Thauera, Clostridium_sensu_stricto, and Proteiniclasticum in the anoxic stage accounted for the efficient N removal. Thus, deploying volcanic as the medium and acetate as the soluble carbon source was proposed. These findings will provide valuable references for the selection of medium and carbon source and, consequently, further optimize the operational performance.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Pollution in Suburban River Sediment of Nantong (China) and Preliminary Exploration of Solidification/Stabilization Scheme
Authors: Xu Qinqin , Zhao Fengbin , Wu Boran , Fang Xin , Chen Jun , Yang Tao , Chai Xiaoli , Yuan Liqun
Published: July 2022

Sediments are sinks and sources of pollutants, playing a rather important role in metal migration and transformation. A set of toxic metals of Hg, Pb, Zn, Cr, Cu, Ni and Cd in a suburban river sediment was investigated in the Yangtze River Delta of China, Nantong, and then, the solidification/stabilization scheme and resource-oriented utilization for heavy metal-contaminated sediment were explored. The results showed that all of the metals were apparently higher than the background values. The geo-accumulation index indicated that Ni, Cr, Pb, Cu, Zn and Cd exhibited a none–moderately polluted degree, while Hg corresponded to the moderately contaminated grade. A correlation analysis showed that the contents of metals were not strongly affected by the pH and organic matter content (p > 0.05), but they were associated with each other (p < 0.05) and might have common natural and anthropogenic sources. Moreover, the leaching experiment revealed that the concentration of Ni exceeded the national standard of China for groundwater, which might cause environmental contamination. Thus, three effective solidification/stabilization formulations for amendments were developed: (1) zero valent iron (9.5% w.w.) and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (0.5% w.w.); (2) sulphate aluminum cement (1% d.w.) and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (0.3% d.w.) and (3) sulphate aluminum cement (1% d.w.), zero valent iron (0.5% d.w.) and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (0.3% d.w.). The findings can provide an effective approach and theoretical basis for the treatment of heavy metal pollution in river sediments.
Electrospinning of ZIF-67 Derived Co-C-N Composite Efficiently Activating Peroxymonosulfate to Degrade Dimethyl Phthalate
Authors: Pang Guowei , Ji Min , Li Zhuoran , Yang Zhengwu , Qiu Xiaojie , Zhao Yingxin
Published: July 2022

In this work, an efficient cage-core peroxymonosulfate (PMS) catalyst was synthesized by applying an electrospinning–calcination process to the cobalt–zeolitic imidazole framework (ZIF-67) crystals for the catalytic degradation of dimethyl phthalate (DMP). The morphology and surface properties of the synthesized materials (ZIF-67, Z600 and ZP400/600/800) were well characterized. ZP600 showed great performance for the catalytic degradation of DMP in the initial pH range of 7.5–10.5. The removal rate of DMP could reach 90.4% in 60 min under optimum dosages of reagents (catalyst = 0.1 g/L, PMS = 0.5 mM, DMP = 6 ppm), and the mineralization degree of contaminant could reach 65%. By quenching experiments, it was determined that sulfate radical (SO4−·) and hydroxyl radical (·OH) dominated the degradation process. Moreover, due to the good magnetism, ZP600 could be easily separated from liquid and showed great reusability in five-cycle reaction experiments. Surprisingly, with the cover of cage-like polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers, the cobalt leaching amount of ZP600 decreased by about 87%. This study would expand the application of the electrospinning process in the development of functional materials for water purification.
Conjunctive Operation of Sand Dam and Groundwater Well for Reliable Water Supply during Drought Conditions
Authors: Kim Bo Ram , Lee Sang-Il , Yu Su Min
Published: July 2022

Some mountainous regions without water service facilities are among the areas most vulnerable to drought. In these locations, it is particularly essential to establish practical alternatives to cope with the increase in the intensity and duration of droughts caused by climate change. This study proposes a methodology for the conjunctive use of a sand dam and groundwater well under various drought conditions. The method has been applied to a small mountainous area in South Korea. Owing to the scarcity of observational data, it is crucial to properly estimate the hydrological components necessary for judging the feasibility and reliability of conjunctive operations. The step-by-step procedures for performing the tasks are presented in this study. For the inflow of the sand dam, which is a portion of the basin runoff, two different approaches were employed and compared: the Kajiyama formula and a simple two-parameter monthly water balance model (TPM). Water budget analysis allowed for the determination of whether the current and increased water demand could be met under various drought conditions. Preliminary analysis revealed that a sand dam alone could not reliably meet the demand for 10-year or more severe drought conditions. Various water allocation scenarios between surface water (i.e., sand dam) and groundwater were tested. Conjunctive use of a sand dam and groundwater well turned out to increase the reliability of the water supply. As water demand increases and droughts become more severe, the role of groundwater increases. With appropriate resource allocation, 100% water supply reliability could be achieved, even for one year-lasting 50-year drought. We demonstrated how a system could be flexibly operated to meet the target demands monthly, given the system reliability level.
Chronic traumatic diaphragmatic hernia: A case report
Authors: Zambrano Morales Rudy Jhair
Published: July 2022

Abstract

A diaphragmatic hernia is a very rare pathology, and clinical suspicion is needed for its diagnosis, and in cases of closed trauma it is much more frequently. For a correct diagnosis in chronic cases we should focus the importance of personal record and imaging studies, because the signs and symptoms may go unnoticed. In this sense, the objective is to describe the main clinical manifestations a diaphragmatic hernia, its approach and, diagnosis. The patient went to the Portoviejo Medical Clinic for a different reason and when performing a chest x-ray, the diagnosis of chronic diaphragmatic hernia was outlined. Currently, the treatment of choice is laparoscopy, but the patient presented complications and had to undergo an open surgical procedure. Conclusions: in order to reduce mortality and complications, a correct diagnosis must be made, recognizing by signs, symptoms and images if we are facing an acute or chronic condition; and always take into account personal record, as that can give the clue that helps in the diagnosis and early treatment.

Keywords: Chronic traumatic diaphragmatic hernia; complications; closed chest trauma.
Megérte-e gazdaságilag Magyarország számára az Európai Unióhoz való csatlakozás?
Authors: Kertész Bence
Published: July 2022

Magyarország 2004-ben tagjává vált a világ egyik legegyedülállóbb integratív szervezetének, az Európai Uniónak, amellyel egy különleges fejezet nyílt a magyar nemzet történetében. Mind gazdaságilag, mind politikailag komoly változásokat hozott a csatlakozás, ám ahogy az utóbbi évek során egyre inkább erősödik ezzel a szupranacionális intézménnyel szembeni szkepticizmus, úgy fokozatosan megkérdőjeleződik az integráció áldozatainak hasznossága, és a nemzetállami szuverenitást csorbítani látszó változ(tat)ások szükségessége. Éppen ezért jelen tanulmány azt kívánja feltárni, hogy valóban megérte-e Magyarország számára az Európai Unióhoz való csatlakozás, mi a tagság mérlege több mint másfél évtized távlatából. Az integráció számos következménye közül azonban leginkább azok gazdasági vetülete kerül górcső alá, ugyanis ez a legjobban kvantifikálható, és ezáltal objektívan és hitelesen vizsgálható részterület. A kutatás sikeresen bebizonyítja, hogy a tények szilárd talaján maradva, az Európai Unióhoz csatlakozás megérte gazdaságilag Magyarországnak, az azzal járó áldozatok többszörösen megtérültek.
Les fonds Russie et Europe médiane : des collections aux carrefours des langues et des cultures
Authors: Maître Anne
Published: July 2022

La Bibliothèque Diderot de Lyon (BDL) abrite de vastes et riches collections d’hier et d’aujourd’hui consacrées à la civilisation russe et slave, désignées sous le nom de « fonds Russie et Europe médiane ». Plusieurs fonds composent ces collections. Notre établissement a d’abord accueilli en 2002 une prestigieuse bibliothèque jésuite, la Bibliothèque slave de Meudon, créée au milieu du xixe siècle, et ensuite de nombreux dons prodigués par de grands scientifiques – linguistes, philologues, historiens. L’objectif principal de cet article est de mettre en lumière des livres rares, précieux, singuliers et liés, d’une manière ou d’une autre, à des problématiques de linguistique et de traduction des langues slaves. Cette présentation est tout d’abord une excellente opportunité de rendre hommage aux savants, polyglottes et experts en langues slaves qui ont construit les collections de la BDL au fil des années. C’est aussi un voyage à travers ces langues en compagnie de grands représentants de la culture russe ou d’éminents slavistes, à la découverte de moments particuliers de l’histoire de la Russie et de l’Europe centrale et orientale.
Un « mot à mot » intraduisible ? La poésie macaronique d’Ivan Mjatlev
Authors: Niqueux Michel
Published: July 2022

Le poème d’Ivan Mjatlev Impressions et observations de madame Kourdioukov à l’étranger, dan l’étrangé (Сенсациии замечания госпожи Курдюковой заграницею, дан л’этранже, 1840) présente une forme originale de mot à mot : l’inclusion dans des vers russes de mots et même de phrases françaises transcrits phonétiquement en cyrillique. Cette reproduction littérale du discours de madame Kurdjukov crée une sorte de parler composite franco-russe, ou d’hétérogénéité linguistique. Le « mot à mot » français n’est pas ici une étape intermédiaire, mais le composant principal du poème, dont la compréhension peut ne pas être immédiate, même pour un francophone, et a fortiori pour un lecteur russe. Généralement qualifié de macaronique, ce poème n’a pas d’équivalent dans la littérature russe. Après avoir étudié les caractéristiques phonétiques, morphologiques et syntaxiques des « implants » français, présents également dans d’autres poésies, nous nous demandons dans quelle mesure il s’agit de macaronisme. Nous étudions également le rôle (pas seulement satirique) de ce français transcrit en cyrillique. Enfin, nous nous interrogeons sur la manière de rendre phonétiquement et visuellement, dans une traduction, ce français macaronique à côté du français ordinaire traduit du russe, c’est-à-dire sur les moyens de maintenir la présence de deux langues. À notre connaissance, il n’existe aucune étude de ce macaronisme, dont on trouve quelques traces au xxe siècle (D. Bednyj, V. Majakovskij), et qui est à rapprocher du russe de la diaspora mâtinée de français, d’anglais ou d’allemand (sur lequel il existe des études).
ANALYSIS OF THE CONDITION OF NEWBORNS BORN TO MOTHERS INFECTED WITH CORONAVIRUS
Authors: Kuneshko Nart , Gavrikova Darya , Golomazova Vasilina , Kim Victor , Pitirimova Olga
Published: July 2022

One of the current problems of modern obstetrics is the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of intrauterine growth retardation. This pathology ranks second after prematurity among the causes of low-birth-weight babies. The prevalence of fetal retardation varies worldwide from 6.5 to 30.0% of all births, of which about 23% are very low birthweight and about 38% extremely low birthweight babies. A new coronavirus infection, caused by the viral pathogen SARS-CoV-2, which contributes to thrombotic microangiopathy in combination with hypercoagulation syndrome, is currently ongoing. During physiological pregnancy, there is known to be an increased risk of complications associated with both bleeding and thrombosis, which are affected by changes in fibrinolytic activity and hypercoagulable state, endothelial dysfunction, and changes in blood rheological properties. It significantly increases the risk of pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia, placental insufficiency, fetal hypoxia, and therefore leads to intrauterine growth retardation of the fetus. This study analyzed the status of newborn babies and the incidence of intrauterine growth retardation in women who had contracted coronavirus infection. Two groups of women were included in study: the first included those who became pregnant 3 to 6 months after a new coronavirus infection, and the second was a control group. The study found that women in the first group were more likely to have pre-eclampsia and their babies were more likely to be diagnosed with intrauterine growth retardation.
SPECIFIC FEATURES OF X-RAY ANATOMY AND PROFILOMETRY IN PEOPLE WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF FACIAL SKELETON
Authors: Dmitrienko Sergey , Kochkonyan Taisiya , Shkarin Vladimir , Domenyuk Dmitry , Dmitrienko Tatiana , Domenyuk Stanislav
Published: July 2022

This work is a summary of results obtained through clinical, radiological, and photometric studies involving 90 people (aged 18-25) with physiological types of bite. The first stage of the study implied an assessment of the face main anatomical structures location (chin, lips and jaws) relative to the conventionally accepted and proposed lines (planes) of the teleroentgenogram and face profile images. At the second stage, the patients were divided into three groups featuring different types of dental arches – mesotrusive (n=33), protrusive (n=30) and retrusive (n=27), depending on the incisor angle of the antagonizing medial incisors. Almost all patients of Group 1 were observed to have the upper lip touching the nasal line passing through the n (nasion) and the sn (subnasale) points, the lower lip receding backwards and the occlusal relationships falling within the age norm, while the average incisor angle being 135.24±3.09°. In most patients of Group 2, the upper and lower lips were located forward from the nasal line, while the occlusal relationships matched the age norm, and the average incisor angle was 116.24±3.02°. In Group 3, the patients’ upper and lower lips were located behind the nasal line, the occlusal relationships corresponding to the age norm and the average incisor angle making up 146.24 ± 3.34°. The obtained data expand the vision of the upper and lower lip facial topography for various dental arches, and are of applied importance when it comes to assessing the aesthetic profile of soft facial tissues, as well as the data in question can serve the criteria to evaluate the rehabilitation effectiveness in patients with dental pathology in view of their individual maxillofacial features.