bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of Potential HIV Transmission Risk in Recent Anal Intercourse Events among Men Who Have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Bavinton Benjamin R. , Mahendra I Gusti Agung Agus , Kaldor John , Law Matthew , Grulich Andrew E. , Januraga Pande Putu
Published: July 2021

In recent years, prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) has increased substantially in Bali, Indonesia, in men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women, known locally as ‘waria’. There are limited behavioural data in this population. We conducted a behavioural survey of MSM/waria in Bali in March–April 2018. Respondents were primarily recruited by HIV outreach workers. Respondents reported details about anal intercourse events with their last male/waria romantic partner and/or last male/waria casual partner (respondents could report on both if relevant). Statistical significance was tested with generalised estimating equations. Among 709 participants, median age was 27 (interquartile range = 24–31), and 92.1% were male and 7.9% were waria. One-third were born in Bali. Overall, 85.9% had ever had an HIV test; 55.1% reported being HIV-negative, 15.0% HIV-positive, and 30.0% had unknown serostatus. Most (86.5%) reported sex with men, 9.5% with waria, and 20.0% with women in the previous 6 months. Respondents described 703 anal intercourse events (397/306 with romantic/casual partners, respectively; 191 reported on both). Over half (56.5%) of the events were protected by condoms and 7.3% by biomedical prevention (2.6% by PrEP in either partner, 4.7% by HIV treatments in either partner). Thus, 36.3% of events involved unprotected condomless anal intercourse (40.8%/30.4% in romantic/casual partners, respectively). In multivariate analysis, unprotected condomless anal intercourse events were associated with romantic partners (p < 0.001), being born in Bali (p = 0.002), lower education (p = 0.013), believing that withdrawal before ejaculation is effective (p < 0.001), liking to use withdrawal (p = 0.021), and not liking condoms (p < 0.001). One-quarter of events had potentially reduced HIV transmission risk through non-condom-based risk reduction strategies, while 11.1% had no potential risk reduction. Events presenting the highest potential risk of HIV transmission were more commonly reported by respondents born in Bali.
From Center-Vortex Ensembles to the Confining Flux Tube
Authors: Junior David R. , Oxman Luis E. , Simões Gustavo M.
Published: July 2021

In this review, we discuss the present status of the description of confining flux tubes in SU(N) pure Yang–Mills theory in terms of ensembles of percolating center vortices. This is based on three main pillars: modeling in the continuum the ensemble components detected in the lattice, the derivation of effective field representations, and contrasting the associated properties with Monte Carlo lattice results. The integration of the present knowledge about these points is essential to get closer to a unified physical picture for confinement. Here, we shall emphasize the last advances, which point to the importance of including the non-oriented center-vortex component and non-Abelian degrees of freedom when modeling the center-vortex ensemble measure. These inputs are responsible for the emergence of topological solitons and the possibility of accommodating the asymptotic scaling properties of the confining string tension.
The Physical Properties of the Groups of Galaxies
Authors: Lovisari Lorenzo , Ettori Stefano
Published: July 2021

Galaxy groups consist of a few tens of galaxies bound in a common gravitational potential [...]
Are GRMHD Mean-Field Dynamo Models of Thick Accretion Disks SANE?
Authors: Tomei Niccolò , Del Zanna Luca , Bugli Matteo , Bucciantini Niccolò
Published: July 2021

The remarkable results by the Event Horizon Telescope collaboration concerning the emission from M87* and, more recently, its polarization properties, require an increasingly accurate modeling of the plasma flows around the accreting black hole. Radiatively inefficient sources such as M87* and Sgr A* are typically modeled with the SANE (standard and normal evolution) paradigm, if the accretion dynamics is smooth, or with the MAD (magnetically arrested disk) paradigm, if the black hole’s magnetosphere reacts by halting the accretion sporadically, resulting in a highly dynamical process. While the recent polarization studies seem to favor MAD models, this may not be true for all sources, and SANE accretion surely still deserves attention. In this work, we investigate the possibility of reaching the typical degree of magnetization and other accretion properties expected for SANE disks by resorting to the mean-field dynamo process in axisymmetric GRMHD simulations, which are supposed to mimic the amplifying action of an unresolved magnetorotational instability-driven turbulence. We show that it is possible to reproduce the main diagnostics present in the literature by starting from very unfavorable initial configurations, such as a purely toroidal magnetic field with negligible magnetization.
Project MOMO: Multiwavelength Observations and Modeling of OJ 287
Authors: Komossa S. , Grupe D. , Kraus A. , Gallo L. C. , Gonzalez A. G. , Parker M. L. , Valtonen M. J. , Hollett A. R. , Bach U. , Gómez J. L. , Myserlis I. , Ciprini S.
Published: July 2021

Our project MOMO (Multiwavelength observations and modeling of OJ 287) consists of dedicated, dense, long-term flux and spectroscopic monitoring, and deep follow-up observations of the blazar OJ 287 at >13 frequencies from the radio to the X-ray band since late 2015. In particular, we are using Swift to obtain optical-UV-X-ray spectral energy distributions (SEDs) and the Effelsberg telescope to obtain radio measurements between 2 and 40 GHz. MOMO is the densest long-term monitoring of OJ 287 involving X-rays and broad-band SEDs. The theoretical part of the project aims at understanding jet and accretion physics of the blazar central engine in general and the supermassive binary black hole scenario in particular. Results are presented in a sequence of publications and so far included: detection and detailed analysis of the bright 2016/17 and 2020 outbursts and the long-term light curve; Swift, XMM, and NuSTAR spectroscopy of the 2020 outburst around maximum; and interpretation of selected events in the context of the binary black hole scenario of OJ 287 (papers I–IV). Here, we provide a description of the project MOMO, a summary of previous results, the latest results, and we discuss future prospects.
Virotherapy in Germany—Recent Activities in Virus Engineering, Preclinical Development, and Clinical Studies
Authors: Nettelbeck Dirk M. , Leber Mathias F. , Altomonte Jennifer , Angelova Assia , Beil Julia , Berchtold Susanne , Delic Maike , Eberle Jürgen , Ehrhardt Anja , Engeland Christine E. , Fechner Henry , Geletneky Karsten , Goepfert Katrin , Holm Per Sonne , Kochanek Stefan , Kreppel Florian , Krutzke Lea , Kühnel Florian , Lang Karl Sebastian , Marchini Antonio , Moehler Markus , Mühlebach Michael D. , Naumann Ulrike , Nawroth Roman , Nüesch Jürg , Rommelaere Jean , Lauer Ulrich M. , Ungerechts Guy
Published: July 2021

Virotherapy research involves the development, exploration, and application of oncolytic viruses that combine direct killing of cancer cells by viral infection, replication, and spread (oncolysis) with indirect killing by induction of anti-tumor immune responses. Oncolytic viruses can also be engineered to genetically deliver therapeutic proteins for direct or indirect cancer cell killing. In this review—as part of the special edition on “State-of-the-Art Viral Vector Gene Therapy in Germany”—the German community of virotherapists provides an overview of their recent research activities that cover endeavors from screening and engineering viruses as oncolytic cancer therapeutics to their clinical translation in investigator-initiated and sponsored multi-center trials. Preclinical research explores multiple viral platforms, including new isolates, serotypes, or fitness mutants, and pursues unique approaches to engineer them towards increased safety, shielded or targeted delivery, selective or enhanced replication, improved immune activation, delivery of therapeutic proteins or RNA, and redirecting antiviral immunity for cancer cell killing. Moreover, several oncolytic virus-based combination therapies are under investigation. Clinical trials in Germany explore the safety and potency of virotherapeutics based on parvo-, vaccinia, herpes, measles, reo-, adeno-, vesicular stomatitis, and coxsackie viruses, including viruses encoding therapeutic proteins or combinations with immune checkpoint inhibitors. These research advances represent exciting vantage points for future endeavors of the German virotherapy community collectively aimed at the implementation of effective virotherapeutics in clinical oncology.
Elicitation of Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies against B.1.1.7, B.1.351, and B.1.617.1 SARS-CoV-2 Variants by Three Prototype Strain-Derived Recombinant Protein Vaccines
Authors: Yang Yong , Zang Jinkai , Xu Shiqi , Zhang Xueyang , Yuan Sule , Wang Haikun , Lavillette Dimitri , Zhang Chao , Huang Zhong
Published: July 2021

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Most of the currently approved SARS-CoV-2 vaccines use the prototype strain-derived spike (S) protein or its receptor-binding domain (RBD) as the vaccine antigen. The emergence of several novel SARS-CoV-2 variants has raised concerns about potential immune escape. In this study, we performed an immunogenicity comparison of prototype strain-derived RBD, S1, and S ectodomain trimer (S-trimer) antigens and evaluated their induction of neutralizing antibodies against three circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants, including B.1.1.7, B.1.351, and B.1.617.1. We found that, at the same antigen dose, the RBD and S-trimer vaccines were more potent than the S1 vaccine in eliciting long-lasting, high-titer broadly neutralizing antibodies in mice. The RBD immune sera remained highly effective against the B.1.1.7, B.1.351, and B.1.617.1 variants despite the corresponding neutralizing titers decreasing by 1.2-, 2.8-, and 3.5-fold relative to that against the wild-type strain. Significantly, the S-trimer immune sera exhibited comparable neutralization potency (less than twofold variation in neutralizing GMTs) towards the prototype strain and all three variants tested. These findings provide valuable information for further development of recombinant protein-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and support the continued use of currently approved SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in the regions/countries where variant viruses circulate.
Lack of Association between Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and Zika Antibodies among Pregnant Women in Thailand between 1997 and 2015
Authors: Ngo-Giang-Huong Nicole , Leroi Charline , Fusco Dahlene , Cressey Tim R. , Wangsaeng Nantawan , Salvadori Nicolas , Kongyai Natedao , Sirirungsi Wasna , Lallemant Marc , Auewarakul Prasert , Khamduang Woottichai , Jourdain Gonzague
Published: July 2021

Data about Zika virus infection and adverse pregnancy outcomes in Southeast Asia are scarce. We conducted an unmatched case-control study of Zika virus (ZIKV) serology in pregnant women enrolled in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis B virus (HBV) perinatal prevention trials between 1997 and 2015 in Thailand. Case and control groups included women with and without adverse pregnancy outcomes. Plasma samples collected during the last trimester of pregnancy were tested for ZIKV IgG/IgM and Dengue IgG/IgM (Euroimmun, AG, Germany). Case newborn plasma samples were tested for ZIKV IgM and ZIKV RNA (Viasure, Spain). The case group included women with stillbirth (n = 22) or whose infants had microcephaly (n = 4), a head circumference below the first percentile (n = 14), neurological disorders (n = 36), or had died within 10 days after birth (n = 11). No women in the case group were positive for ZIKV IgM, and none of their live-born neonates were positive for ZIKV IgM or ZIKV RNA. The overall ZIKV IgG prevalence was 29%, 24% in the case and 34% in the control groups (Fisher’s exact test; p = 0.13), while the dengue IgG seroprevalence was 90%. Neither neonatal ZIKV infections nor ZIKV-related adverse pregnancy outcomes were observed in these women with HIV and/or HBV during the 18-year study period.
Function of Host Protein Staufen1 in Rabies Virus Replication
Authors: Liu Gaowen , Chen Congjie , Xu Ruixian , Yang Ming , Han Qinqin , Wang Binghui , Song Yuzhu , Xia Xueshan , Zhang Jinyang
Published: July 2021

Rabies virus is a highly neurophilic negative-strand RNA virus with high lethality and remains a huge public health problem in developing countries to date. The double-stranded RNA-binding protein Staufen1 (STAU1) has multiple functions in RNA virus replication, transcription, and translation. However, its function in RABV infection and its mechanism of action are not clear. In this study, we investigated the role of host factor STAU1 in RABV infection of SH-SY-5Y cells. Immunofluorescence, TCID50 titers, confocal microscopy, quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting were carried out to determine the molecular function and subcellular distribution of STAU1 in these cell lines. Expression of STAU1 in SH-SY-5Y cells was down-regulated by RNA interference or up-regulated by transfection of eukaryotic expression vectors. The results showed that N proficiently colocalized with STAU1 in SH-SY-5Y at 36 h post-infection, and the expression level of STAU1 was also proportional to the time of infection. Down-regulation of STAU1 expression increased the number of Negri body-like structures, enhanced viral replication, and a caused 10-fold increase in viral titers. Meanwhile, N protein and G protein mRNA levels also accumulated gradually with increasing infection time, which implied that STAU1 inhibited rabies virus infection of SH-SY-5Y cells in vitro. In conclusion, our results provide important clues for the detailed replication mechanism of rabies virus and the discovery of therapeutic targets.
A Diverse Viral Community from Predatory Wasps in Their Native and Invaded Range, with a New Virus Infectious to Honey Bees
Authors: Remnant Emily , Baty James , Bulgarella Mariana , Dobelmann Jana , Quinn Oliver , Gruber Monica , Lester Philip
Published: July 2021

Wasps of the genus Vespula are social insects that have become major pests and predators in their introduced range. Viruses present in these wasps have been studied in the context of spillover from honey bees, yet we lack an understanding of the endogenous virome of wasps as potential reservoirs of novel emerging infectious diseases. We describe the characterization of 68 novel and nine previously identified virus sequences found in transcriptomes of Vespula vulgaris in colonies sampled from their native range (Belgium) and an invasive range (New Zealand). Many viruses present in the samples were from the Picorna-like virus family (38%). We identified one Luteo-like virus, Vespula vulgaris Luteo-like virus 1, present in the three life stages examined in all colonies from both locations, suggesting this virus is a highly prevalent and persistent infection in wasp colonies. Additionally, we identified a novel Iflavirus with similarity to a recently identified Moku virus, a known wasp and honey bee pathogen. Experimental infection of honey bees with this novel Vespula vulgaris Moku-like virus resulted in an active infection. The high viral diversity present in these invasive wasps is a likely indication that their polyphagous diet is a rich source of viral infections.
3-Indoleacetonitrile Is Highly Effective in Treating Influenza A Virus Infection In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Zhao Xuejin , Zhao Lianzhong , Zhao Ya , Huang Kun , Gong Wenxiao , Yang Ying , Zhao Li , Xia Xiaohan , Li Zaiyun , Sheng Feng , Du Xuezhu , Jin Meilin
Published: July 2021

Influenza A viruses are serious zoonotic pathogens that continuously cause pandemics in several animal hosts, including birds, pigs, and humans. Indole derivatives containing an indole core framework have been extensively studied and developed to prevent and/or treat viral infection. This study evaluated the anti-influenza activity of several indole derivatives, including 3-indoleacetonitrile, indole-3-carboxaldehyde, 3-carboxyindole, and gramine, in A549 and MDCK cells. Among these compounds, 3-indoleacetonitrile exerts profound antiviral activity against a broad spectrum of influenza A viruses, as tested in A549 cells. Importantly, in a mouse model, 3-indoleacetonitrile with a non-toxic concentration of 20 mg/kg effectively reduced the mortality and weight loss, diminished lung virus titers, and alleviated lung lesions of mice lethally challenged with A/duck/Hubei/WH18/2015 H5N6 and A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 H1N1 influenza A viruses. The antiviral properties enable the potential use of 3-indoleacetonitrile for the treatment of IAV infection.
Inhibition of Orbivirus Replication by Fluvastatin and Identification of the Key Elements of the Mevalonate Pathway Involved
Authors: Mohd Jaafar Fauziah , Monsion Baptiste , Belhouchet Mourad , Mertens Peter P. C. , Attoui Houssam
Published: July 2021

Statin derivatives can inhibit the replication of a range of viruses, including hepatitis C virus (HCV, Hepacivirus), dengue virus (Flavivirus), African swine fever virus (Asfarviridae) and poliovirus (Picornaviridae). We assess the antiviral effect of fluvastatin in cells infected with orbiviruses (bluetongue virus (BTV) and Great Island virus (GIV)). The synthesis of orbivirus outer-capsid protein VP2 (detected by confocal immunofluorescence imaging) was used to assess levels of virus replication, showing a reduction in fluvastatin-treated cells. A reduction in virus titres of ~1.7 log (98%) in fluvastatin-treated cells was detected by a plaque assay. We have previously identified a fourth non-structural protein (NS4) of BTV and GIV, showing that it interacts with lipid droplets in infected cells. Fluvastatin, which inhibits 3-hydroxy 3-methyl glutaryl CoA reductase in the mevalonic acid pathway, disrupts these NS4 interactions. These findings highlight the role of the lipid pathways in orbivirus replication and suggest a greater role for the membrane-enveloped orbivirus particles than previously recognised. Chemical intermediates of the mevalonic acid pathway were used to assess their potential to rescue orbivirus replication. Pre-treatment of IFNAR(−/−) mice with fluvastatin promoted their survival upon challenge with live BTV, although only limited protection was observed.
Who Is Willing to Get Vaccinated? A Study into the Psychological, Socio-Demographic, and Cultural Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccination Intentions
Authors: Giuliani Mattia , Ichino Anna , Bonomi Alice , Martoni Riccardo , Cammino Stefania , Gorini Alessandra
Published: July 2021

Crucial to the success of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign is the rate of people who adhere to it. This study aimed to investigate the reasons underlying people’s willingness to get vaccinated in a sample of Italian adults, considering the effects of different individual characteristics and psychological variables upon positive vs. negative/hesitant vaccination intentions, as well as subjects’ self-reported motivations for such intentions. An anonymous cross-sectional survey was distributed online in February 2021. The results showed that trust in science, number of vaccinations received in 2019, and belief that COVID-19 is more severe than the common flu, were associated with positive vaccination intentions. “Chance externality” health locus of control showed both direct and indirect effects upon positive vaccination intentions. Anxiety symptoms and participants’ perceived psychological status also showed indirect positive effects. Subjects’ self-reported motivations varied interestingly across positive vs. negative/hesitant intentions. Implications of these findings for identifying effective pro-vaccination messages are discussed in the final section of the paper.
Community-University Partnership in Water Education and Linkage Process. Study Case: Manglaralto, Santa Elena, Ecuador
Authors: Carrión-Mero Paúl , Morante-Carballo Fernando , Herrera-Franco Gricelda , Jaya-Montalvo María , Rodríguez Denise , Loor-Flores de Valgas Carolina , Berrezueta Edgar
Published: July 2021

Universities have the mission to serve society by being pragmatic, diverse, and multidisciplinary. Similar to society in general, these centers have a common challenge: finding a way to articulate projects that favor the demands and needs of vulnerable rural sectors. In this case, the community-university partnership is based on the interaction of the Manglaralto population, represented by the Junta Administradora del Agua Potable Regional de Manglaralto and the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), both from Ecuador. Specifically, it is based on a collaborative relationship since 2005, through the Centro de Investigación y Proyectos Aplicados a Ciencias de la Tierra (CIPAT) of the ESPOL. This work aims to evaluate the community-university partnership through the results obtained in community work projects. In addition, it describes the resolution of problems reached on the sustainability of water resources in the parish of Manglaralto (Ecuador). The methodology was based on (i) the description of the existing community-university interaction framework, (ii) the analysis of the community projects that CIPAT developed in the period 2017–2020, and finally, (iii) the evaluation of the impact of the actions carried out on the sustainability of the coastal aquifer. The community-university partnership has generated relevant information (e.g., water reserves, extraction processes, aquifer recharge, and care of the resource) for the community and has allowed for the strengthening and transmitting of knowledge in different specialties (education, culture, and environment). In the 2017–2020 period, four community projects were carried out with students, researchers, and the inhabitants of the rural area of Manglaralto. These projects allowed wells for water extraction and engineering structures such as dikes and green filters that help the use and recharge the aquifer. In addition, the initiatives carried out made it possible to inform the population of the importance of the sustainable exploitation of water resources. In general, this work made it possible to identify a natural laboratory of human interaction in which the results obtained are based on the collaboration and contribution of all the participating actors.
Sensitive Feature Evaluation for Soil Moisture Retrieval Based on Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data with Few In-Situ Measurements: A Case Study of the Continental U.S.
Authors: Zhang Ling , Zhang Zixuan , Xue Zhaohui , Li Hao
Published: July 2021

Soil moisture (SM) plays an important role for understanding Earth’s land and near-surface atmosphere interactions. Existing studies rarely considered using multi-source data and their sensitiveness to SM retrieval with few in-situ measurements. To solve this issue, we designed a SM retrieval method (Multi-MDA-RF) using random forest (RF) based on 29 features derived from passive microwave remote sensing data, optical remote sensing data, land surface models (LSMs), and other auxiliary data. To evaluate the importance of different features to SM retrieval, we first compared 10 filter or embedded type feature selection methods with sequential forward selection (SFS). Then, RF was employed to establish a nonlinear relationship between the in-situ SM measurements from sparse network stations and the optimal feature subset. The experiments were conducted in the continental U.S. (CONUS) using in-situ measurements during August 2015, with only 5225 training samples covering the selected feature subset. The experimental results show that mean decrease accuracy (MDA) is better than other feature selection methods, and Multi-MDA-RF outperforms the back-propagation neural network (BPNN) and generalized regression neural network (GRNN), with the R and unbiased root-mean-square error (ubRMSE) values being 0.93 and 0.032 cm3/cm3, respectively. In comparison with other SM products, Multi-MDA-RF is more accurate and can well capture the SM spatial dynamics.
Optimal Implementation of Wastewater Reuse in Existing Sewerage Systems to Improve Resilience and Sustainability in Water Supply Systems
Authors: Dev Aakash , Dilly Timo C. , Bakhshipour Amin E. , Dittmer Ulrich , Bhallamudi S. Murty
Published: July 2021

A transition from conventional centralized to hybrid decentralized systems has been increasingly advised recently due to their capability to enhance the resilience and sustainability of urban water supply systems. Reusing treated wastewater for non-potable purposes is a promising opportunity toward the aforementioned resolutions. In this study, we present two optimization models for integrating reusing systems into existing sewerage systems to bridge the supply–demand gap in an existing water supply system. In Model-1, the supply–demand gap is bridged by introducing on-site graywater treatment and reuse, and in Model-2, the gap is bridged by decentralized wastewater treatment and reuse. The applicability of the proposed models is evaluated using two test cases: one a proof-of-concept hypothetical network and the other a near realistic network based on the sewerage network in Chennai, India. The results show that the proposed models outperform the existing approaches by achieving more than a 20% reduction in the cost of procuring water and more than a 36% reduction in the demand for freshwater through the implementation of local on-site graywater reuse for both test cases. These numbers are about 12% and 34% respectively for the implementation of decentralized wastewater treatment and reuse.
Application of Hydrograph Analysis Techniques for Estimating Groundwater Contribution in the Sor and Gebba Streams of the Baro-Akobo River Basin, Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Bayou Wondmyibza Tsegaye , Wohnlich Stefan , Mohammed Mebruk , Ayenew Tenalem
Published: July 2021

The Sor and Gebba watershed has undergone several natural and anthropogenic changes, as evidenced by the physical alterations and artificial mismanagement of water resources in the watershed. These situations alter the underground storage aquifer contribution to the streams. Thus, understanding baseflow of the watershed enables us to identify the groundwater system potential and dynamicity. The main objective of this research is to estimate baseflow using several hydrograph analysis techniques as there was neither an organized groundwater resources research carried out at the watershed level nor studies on various methods on estimation of baseflow contribution to these streams. Hence, this research involves estimating baseflow from daily streamflow data using the manual hydrograph analysis technique, Flow Duration Curve (FDC), timeplot, Web-based Hydrograph Analysis Tool (WHAT), the US Geological Survey Groundwater Toolbox (USGS GW Toolbox), and the Baseflow index program (BFI+). The analysis result shows that most automated filtering techniques used with presumed parameters have estimated above-average baseflow compared to the FDC and the manual hydrograph analysis techniques. Moreover, FDC and manual hydrograph analysis resulted in a below-average value of underground storage aquifer contribution to streamflow. The BFI values are proportional for the Sor and Gebba streams and estimated about 33% for the entire watershed.
Checklist and Distribution of Calanoida (Crustacea: Copepoda) in Kazakhstan (Central Asia)
Authors: Krupa Elena , Aubakirova Moldir
Published: July 2021

This work aims to analyze the zoogeographic distribution of Calanoida in Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan belongs to the Palaearctic region, and its territory is ascribed to the European–Siberian and Nagorno–Asian biogeographical subregions. The European–Siberian subregion includes the Volga–Ural, Irtysh, and Turkestan–Aral provinces. The Balkhash province belongs to the Nagorno–Asian subregion. Studies of the Calanoida fauna were carried out between 1997 and 2019. For this purpose, 7250 zooplankton samples were taken in 130 different water bodies. Findings of 26 species of Calanoida have been documented. The richest in species composition (20) is the Calanoida fauna of the Irtysh province. Ten Calanoida species have been recorded in the Volga–Ural province, 8 in the Turkestan–Aral province, 7 in the Balkhash province, and 5 in the Ponto–Caspian region. The distribution of the species richness of the order is determined by a complex of climatic factors, including the density of the hydrographic network, a variety of hydrochemical conditions, and accidental acclimatization of species. Far Eastern species (Sinodiaptomus sarsi, Neutrodiaptomus incongruens, Neodiaptomus schmackeri) entered the inland water bodies of Kazakhstan, most likely through the introduction of non-native fish species. The Black Sea species Acartia tonsa and Calanipeda aquaedulcis were introduced into the Caspian Sea with ballast waters. Three autochthonous species (Limnocalanus macrurus, Eurytemora grimmi, Eurytemora minor), formerly inhabiting the Caspian Sea, can now be considered extinct. Acanthodiaptomus denticornis, Arctodiaptomus (R.) salinus, Phyllodiaptomus blanci, and Eudiaptomus graciloides are widespread in the region. Endemic species (Gigantodiaptomus irtyshensis, Arctodiaptomus naurzumensis) and species are new for Kazakhstan (Diaptomus (Chaetodiaptomus) mirus, Eudiaptomus transylvanicus, Arctodiaptomus dentifer, A. (Rh.) ulomskyi were found in small waterbodies; they are known only from single occurrence sites as well as Eurytemora caspica. The last one was described from the northern part of the Caspian Sea, in the coastal zone. Further research into small water bodies that are poorly studied may expand our knowledge of the diversity of Calanoida in Kazakhstan. Calanoida fauna of Kazakhstan was closest to the fauna of countries with a continental climate and most strongly differed from countries with subtropical and Mediterranean types of climates.
Hybrid Scour Depth Prediction Equations for Reliable Design of Bridge Piers
Authors: Hamidifar Hossein , Zanganeh-Inaloo Faezeh , Carnacina Iacopo
Published: July 2021

Numerous models have been proposed in the past to predict the maximum scour depth around bridge piers. These studies have all focused on the different parameters that could affect the maximum scour depth and the model accuracy. One of the main parameters individuated is the critical velocity of the approaching flow. The present study aimed at investigating the effect of different equations to determine the critical flow velocity on the accuracy of models for estimating the maximum scour depth around bridge piers. Here, 10 scour depth estimation equations, which include the critical flow velocity as one of the influencing parameters, and 8 critical velocity estimation equations were examined, for a total combination of 80 hybrid models. In addition, a sensitivity analysis of the selected scour depth equations to the critical velocity was investigated. The results of the selected models were compared with experimental data, and the best hybrid models were identified using statistical indicators. The accuracy of the best models, including YJAF-VRAD, YJAF-VARN, and YJAI-VRAD models, was also evaluated using field data available in the literature. Finally, correction factors were implied to the selected models to increase their accuracy in predicting the maximum scour depth.
Nature-Based Coastal Protection by Large Woody Debris as Compared to Seawalls: A Physical Model Study of Beach Morphology and Wave Reflection
Authors: Falkenrich Pauline , Wilson Jessica , Nistor Ioan , Goseberg Nils , Cornett Andrew , Mohammadian Abdolmajid
Published: July 2021

Anchored Large Woody Debris (LWD) is increasingly being used as one of several nature-based coastal protection strategies along the north-western coasts of Canada and the US. As an alternative to conventional hard armoring (e.g., seawalls), its usage is widely considered to be less harmful to the coastal ecosystem while maintaining the ability to protect the beaches against wave attack and erosion. The effects of seawalls on beaches have been extensively studied; however, the performance and efficacy of LWD and its potential as a suitable alternative to seawalls (and other shoreline protection structures) are still understudied in current research. This paper presents and compares the effects of a conventional vertical seawall with two different LWD structures on beach morphology and wave reflection through large-scale physical modeling in a wave flume at a 1:5 scale. An assessment of techniques used to measure beach morphology and an assessment of model effects were included in the study. It was found that the wave reflection could be reduced by using a single log instead of a wall structure, while changes in the beach morphology response largely depended on the type of the LWD structure. A stacked log wall showed near-identical behavior as a conventional seawall. Visible model effects from the experiments, including the effect of the flume sidewalls on the beach morphology, were quantified and analyzed to inform future research.
The interdisciplinary granted projects of the departments of Archaeology and Natural sciences at New Bulgarian University
Authors: Dimitrova Irena , Dumanov Boyan , Uzunov Zhivko , Kostova Bilyana
Published: July 2021

The aim of the work is to present the interdisciplinary projects developed and funded by the Bulgarian Science Research Found. These projects are created in Departments of Archaeology, and Natural Sciences, New Bulgarian University in the period 2014–2019.
Natural Disasters in Bulgaria – Crises Events for the Period 2010–2018
Authors: Berberova Ralitza
Published: July 2021

The paper presents an overview of the occurrence of crisis events from natural processes and phenomena in our country. Official data from the National Statistical Institute covering the period 2010–2018 were researched. The results show that natural disasters are among the most common causes of crises. Over half of the reported crises of a natural origin are the result of floods.
Extension Administrators’ Perspectives on Employee Competencies and Characteristics
Authors: Elliott-Engel Jeremy , Westfall-Rudd Donna , Seibel Megan , Kaufman Eric , Radhakrishna Rama
Published: July 2021

Extension administrators discussed the competencies and characteristics of Extension professionals as they explored how Extension will need adapt to changing clientele, both in who they are and how they want to receive information. Extension education curriculum is not fully preparing future Extension employees in all required competencies, falling short on use of technology, diversity and pluralism, volunteer development, marketing, and public relations, risk management, and the community development process. Additionally, the Extension educator workforce development pipeline is not preparing a demographically representative population, leaving state administrators struggling to hire prepared professionals, especially those with in-culture competency (e.g., racial and ethnic minority and urban).
Scenario Planning for Resilient Agricultural Systems: A Process for Engaging Controversy
Authors: Powers Crystal , Williams Tyler , Stowell Rick
Published: July 2021

Resiliency to weather extremes is already a part of farming in the North Plains, but now climate change is adding new uncertainties. Engaging farmers on this often controversial topic can be challenging given the wide range of beliefs farmers hold about climate change. Scenario planning provides a framework for Extension and agricultural system stakeholders to come together using the latest climate science to discover robust adaptive management options, prioritize Extension programming needs, and provide an open forum for starting the discussion.
Designing Educational Newsletter Interventions: An Example That Supported Grandfamilies’ Physical Wellness Needs
Authors: Brenes Priscilla , Higgins Mary Meck
Published: July 2021

Effective newsletters have theory-based content and designs tailored to their readers and offer limited-cost community-level approaches to providing helpful, relevant, and engaging information. In accordance with this, we offer an example of a newsletter intervention that supported grandfamilies’ physical wellness needs. Six issues of a brief mail-delivered newsletter were sent yearly for up to 5 years to low-income custodial grandparents. In evaluating the newsletter, most respondents reported reading it, discussing its information, and having greater awareness, knowledge, and motivation or confidence regarding wellness recommendations. Furthermore, 91% described improving 1 or more of their grandfamilies’ cooking, eating, or physical activity practices.
Veganic Agriculture in the United States: Opportunities for Research, Outreach, and Education
Authors: Utter Alisha , Seymour Mona
Published: July 2021

A growing number of farmers are excluding animal inputs from crop production, an approach commonly referred to as veganic or stockfree organic agriculture. This research-based article discusses the soil health and fertility strategies reported by a sample of U.S. veganic farmers. These approaches may be relevant beyond the veganic community to farmers seeking innovative methods for produce safety and nutrient cycling. Agricultural outreach professionals (AOPs), including Extension personnel, play a critical role in supporting veganic practices by serving as cross-pollinators between farmers and research institutions. Thus, the article endeavors to expand AOP familiarity with veganic practices and benefits.
Contribution of adipoq genetic polymorphism to the formation and course of comorbidity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and renoparinchemal arterial hypertension
Authors: Babak Oleg , Prosolenko Kostyantyn , Panchenko Galina , Shalimova Anna , Lapshyna Kateryna
Published: July 2021

Introduction. Nowadays nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) consider as multisystem disease that is primarily associated with components of the metabolic syndrome and is associated with cardiovascular and renal impairment. The comorbidity of NAFLD with renoparenchymal arterial hypertension (RPAH) has not been sufficiently studied.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of G276T genetic polymorphism of ADIPOQ on the severity of metabolic disorders, inflammation, liver, artery and kidney damage in the comorbidity of NAFLD and RPAH.

Materials and methods. The study included 87 patients with comorbidity of NAFLD and RPAH, grade 2. The mean age of patients was 50.78 ± 9.35 years. The vast majority of patients were overweight or obese. The control group was composed of 20 healthy volunteers. Parameters of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, liver and kidney’s function, adiponectin, fetuin-A, cytokeratin-18, pro-inflammatory cytokines levels were investigated. For diagnostic of non-alcoholic steatosis and indication parameters of arteries, an ultrasound method was used.

Results. It was found that the T allele was detected in 62 (35.6%) patients of the main group, which was significantly (p<0,05) different from the control group (22.5%). In the presence of patients with comorbidity NAFLD and RPAH G/T and T/T genotypes, carbohydrate metabolism disorders are more pronounced than in the G/G genotype. Thus, index HOMA in this group was 4.52 ± 0.87, which was significantly higher than patients with G/G genotype - 3.77 ± 0.53 (p <0.01).The G276T polymorphism of the ADIPOQ is not associated with markers of liver and kidney damage in patients with NAFLD + RPAH. The presence of G/T and T/T genotypes in patients with comorbidity of NAFLD and RPAH is associated with an increase in interleukin-6 and fetuin-A compared to the G/G genotype. Patients with comorbidity of NAFLD + RPAH and with the T allele of the polymorphic marker G276T of the ADIPOQ gene are more likely to have impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation, indicating more significant vascular reactivity disorders - 7.72 ± 1.25% for the genotype G/G, and 7.00 ± 1.10% for the genotype G/T (p <0,01).

Conclusions. The presence of the T allele of the polymorphic marker G276T of the ADIPOQ is associated with the development of comorbidity of NAFLD and RPAH.
Calcium-phosphorus relationships in the combined course of stable ischemic heart disease in patients with obesity
Authors: Pasieshvili Ludmila , Ivanova Katerina , Andrusha Alina , Viun Tetiana Ivanovna , Marchenko Anastasiya
Published: July 2021

The purpose of the study was to optimize the diagnosis and prediction of the development of structural and functional disorders of bone tissue in patients with SCHD and obesity. Thus, lipid profile analysis showed a clinically significant increase in total cholesterol and triglycerides in patients with SCHD. Serum bone mineral status did not exceed normal values, but serum total calcium levels were significantly higher in patients with SCHD and obesity compared to other groups. The indicators of calcium-phosphorus metabolism in the daily urine of patients with SCHD were significantly higher. When conducting densitometric studies in patients with SCHD with normal weight, osteopenic conditions were diagnosed more often than in patients with overweight and obesity. That is, the comorbid course of SCHD and obesity is a high risk of osteodeficiency, which is confirmed by early changes in calcium-phosphorus metabolism.
Pathophysiological aspects as the object of the treatment tactics in acute pancreatitis (review)
Authors: Kryvoruchko Igor , Drozdova Anastasiya , Goncharova Nataliya
Published: July 2021

The review presents a modern view on the features of the course and treatment of acute pancreatitis, based on a cascade of pathophysiological mechanisms of this disease. A number of concepts of development and course of acute pancreatitis on the basis of randomized prospective and retrospective researches devoted to this problem are considered. Attention is paid to the mechanisms of development of organ failure in acute pancreatitis. In accordance with the above, the main positions of treatment measures for acute pancreatitis, which are based on the principles of tactics "step-up approach" were highlighted. Among them, attention is focused on the features of the conservative treatment program, minimally invasive surgical interventions, as well as the management of the postoperative period of patients. Minimally invasive surgical interventions perform the main tasks of surgical treatment in acute pancreatitis, but significantly reduce surgical trauma compared to "open" methods. Adequate management of the postoperative period of patients is carried out through the implementation of protocols "fast-track surgery".
Yapay Sinir Ağı Yöntemlerinin Tekstil Sektöründe Kullanım Uygulamaları
Authors: ÇÖREKCİOĞLU Mustafa , ERCAN Emel , ARAS ELİBÜYÜK Sultan
Published: July 2021

Günümüzde tekstil ürünlerine olan talebin artması ve müşteri beklentilerinin yükselmesi ile birlikte, tekstil sektöründe müşteriye sunulan süreç, ürün ve hizmet faktörlerinde gelişim zorunlu bir ihtiyaç haline gelmiştir. Bu gelişimi sağlayabilecek araştırma yöntemlerinden birisi de yapay sinir ağlarıdır (YSA). YSA, insan beyninin basitleştirilmesi sonucunda türetilen algoritmik yapıları temsil etmektedir. YSA yöntemi beyindeki nöronların matematiksel modellere dönüştürülmesini kapsar. Bu sayede, genelleme, tahmin yürütme ve problem çözümü işlemleri gerçekleştirilebilir. Bu çalışmada yapay sinir ağı yöntemlerinin tekstil sektöründe ki kullanımlarına yönelik literatür çalışmaları araştırılmıştır. Tekstil literatüründe yapay sinir ağlarının, iplik parametrelerinin tahmin edilmesinde, dokuma aşamasında, terbiye bölümünde, kumaş konfor parametrelerinin tahmin edilmesinde kullanıldığı çalışmalara rastlamak mümkündür. Tekstil sektöründe YSA yöntemlerinin başarıyla uygulanabildiği ve başarılı sonuçlar elde edildiği belirlenmiştir.
Android Zararlı Yazılımlarının Derin Öğrenme ile Kategorilerine ve Ailelerine Göre Sınıflandırılması
Authors: TOKMAK Mahmut
Published: July 2021

En yaygın kullanılan mobil platform olan Android, mobil zararlı yazılımların da en büyük hedefi haline gelmiştir. Günden güne de Android zararlı yazılım sayısı ve çeşidi artmaktadır. Bu durum göz önüne alındığında, kötü amaçlı yazılım kategorilerini ve ailelerini tespit etmek, zararlı yazılım analistlerinin işlerini kolaylaştıracaktır. Analistler, benzer davranışlar sergileyen zararlı yazılımları incelemek yerine motivasyonlarını yeni örnekleri incelemeye odaklayacaklardır. Bu çalışmada, ICInvesAndMal2019 Android zararlı yazılım veri setinin dinamik analiz yöntemi ile elde edilen özellikleri barındıran kısmı kullanılmıştır. Kullanılan veri seti ile Android zararlı yazılımları kategorilerine ve ailelerine göre sınıflandırılmıştır. Sınıflandırmada Derin Sinir Ağları (DSA) kullanılmıştır. Kurulan model ile yapılan sınıflandırma sonucunda Android zararlı yazılımların kategorilerine göre sınıflandırmasında %85 doğruluk değerine, Android zararlı yazılımların ailelerine göre sınıflandırılmasında %62 doğruluk değerine erişilmiştir
A jövő tanítói és a művészetek
Authors: Pinczésné Palásthy Ildikó , Joó Anikó , Molnár-Tamus Viktória , Sz. Fodor Adrienne
Published: July 2021

A pedagógiában a kulturális értékek közvetítésén túl jelentős szerepet tulajdonítunk a művészetek személyiségformáló hatásának is. Kutatásunkban egyrészt a tanító szakos hallgatók pályaszocializációs folyamatában megjelenő motivációs tényezőkre fókuszálunk, másrészt azok következményeire, amelyekről feltételezzük, hogy megnyilvánulnak a művészetek iránti attitűdben.
Relato de experiência
Authors: Guimarães Quézia Estéfani Silva , Santos Mariana Novaes , Silva Camilo Santana , Barreto Fernanda Khouri
Published: July 2021

Há séculos, a medicina vem se desenvolvendo, deixando de ser empírica e tornando-se cada vez mais científica. Nesse contexto, a Medicina Baseada em Evidências (MBE) surge para dar sustentação e comprovação para os atos e procedimentos médicos, haja vista a infinidade de informações, nem sempre confiáveis, existentes no contexto do cuidado à saúde. O objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar as percepções de três acadêmicos de Medicina da Universidade Federal da Bahia – Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, sobre a importância da abordagem da MBE durante a graduação, fundamentando uma formação médica de qualidade. O presente relato baseou-se nas experiências da disciplina Atualidades em Biologia, que consolidou a importância da MBE no contexto médico. Partindo disso, constatou-se que a introdução da MBE na graduação é indispensável para a formação de um profissional familiarizado com informações confiáveis, favorecendo o pensamento crítico na trajetória acadêmica e profissional.