bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-Dimensional Finite Element Modelling of Sheet Metal Forming for the Manufacture of Pipe Components: Symmetry Considerations
Authors: Bhujangrao Trunal , Veiga Fernando , Penalva Mariluz , Costas Adriana , Ruiz Cristina
Published: January 2022

The manufacture of parts by metal forming is a widespread technique in sectors such as oil and gas and automotives. It is therefore important to make a research effort to know the correct set of parameters that allow the manufacture of correct parts. This paper presents a process analysis by means of the finite element model. The use case presented in this paper is that of a 3-m diameter pipe component with a thickness of 22 mm. In this type of application, poor selection of process conditions can result in parts that are out of tolerance, both in dimensions and shape. A 3D finite element model is made, and the symmetry of the tube section generated in 2D is analysed. As a novelty, an analysis of the process correction as a function of the symmetrical deformation of the material in this case in the form of a pipe is carried out. The results show a correct fitting of the model and give guidelines for manufacturing.
Novel Benes Network Routing Algorithm and Hardware Implementation
Authors: Nikolaidis Dimitris , Groumas Panos , Kouloumentas Christos , Avramopoulos Hercules
Published: January 2022

Benes/Clos networks constitute a particularly important part of interconnection networks and have been used in numerous areas, such as multi-processor systems, data centers and on-chip networks. They have also attracted great interest in the field of optical communications due to the increasing popularity of optical switches based on these architectures. There are numerous algorithms aimed at routing these types of networks, with varying degrees of utility. Linear algorithms, such as Sun Tsu and Opferman, were historically the first attempt to standardize the routing procedure of this types of networks. They require matrix-based calculations, which are very demanding in terms of resources and in some cases involve backtracking, which impairs their efficiency. Parallel solutions, such as Lee’s algorithm, were introduced later and provide a different answer that satisfy the requirements of high-performance networks. They are, however, extremely complex and demand even more resources. In both cases, hardware implementations reflect their algorithmic characteristics. In this paper, we attempt to design an algorithm that is simple enough to be implemented on a small field programmable gate array board while simultaneously efficient enough to be used in practical scenarios. The design itself is of a generic nature; therefore, its behavior across different sizes (8 × 8, 16 × 16, 32 × 32, 64 × 64) is examined. The platform of implementation is a medium range FPGA specifically selected to represent the average hardware prototyping device. In the end, an overview of the algorithm’s imprint on the device is presented alongside other approaches, which include both hard and soft computing techniques.
Copper and Zinc Levels in Commercial Marine Fish from Setiu, East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Yap Chee Kong , Al-Mutairi Khalid Awadh
Published: January 2022

Potentially toxic metals (PTMs) in edible marine fish have been widely reported from at least 15 different regions or countries in the literature. This evidently demonstrates the importance of monitoring the PTMs in fish fillets from a human health risk (HHR) point of view. This study aims to assess the HHR of Cu and Zn in 19 species of marine fish from popular marine fish loading sites at Setiu in Terengganu, on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, collected between August 2016 and February 2017. With overall ranges of concentrations (mg/kg dry weight) of Cu (1.50–7.83), and Zn (24.1–80.5), the 19 species of marine fishes from Setiu are good sources of these essential elements because they are below the maximum permissible limits set by seafood safety guidelines. The target hazard quotient values of Cu and Zn were lower than one, indicating non-carcinogenic risks of Cu and Zn in fish consumption. It was also found that the calculated values of the estimated weekly intake were below the established provisional tolerable weekly intake of Cu and Zn. It can be concluded that the consumption of fish from Setiu would not pose adverse effects from the PTMs to consumers. Nonetheless, continuous monitoring is necessary to ensure the safety of consumers who rely heavily on marine fish in Setiu coastal waters.
Transformation Products of Emerging Pollutants Explored Using Non-Target Screening: Perspective in the Transformation Pathway and Toxicity Mechanism—A Review
Authors: Suman Thodhal-Yoganandham , Kim Soo-Yeon , Yeom Dong-Hyuk , Jeon Junho
Published: January 2022

The scientific community has increasingly focused on forming transformation products (TPs) from environmental organic pollutants. However, there is still a lot of discussion over how these TPs are generated and how harmful they are to living terrestrial or aquatic organisms. Potential transformation pathways, TP toxicity, and their mechanisms require more investigation. Non-target screening (NTS) via high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) in model organisms to identify TPs and the formation mechanism on various organisms is the focus of this review. Furthermore, uptake, accumulation process, and potential toxicity with their detrimental consequences are summarized in various organisms. Finally, challenges and future research initiatives, such as performing NTS in a model organism, characterizing and quantifying TPs, and evaluating future toxicity studies on TPs, are also included in this review.
COVID-19: Current Challenges and Future Perspectives
Authors: Leggat Peter A. , Frean John , Blumberg Lucille
Published: January 2022

This Special Issue focuses on recent global research on the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic [...]
Multiple Salivary Proteins from Aedes aegypti Mosquito Bind to the Zika Virus Envelope Protein
Authors: Valenzuela-Leon Paola Carolina , Shrivastava Gaurav , Martin-Martin Ines , Cardenas Jenny C. , Londono-Renteria Berlin , Calvo Eric
Published: January 2022

Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are important vectors of several debilitating and deadly arthropod-borne (arbo) viruses, including Yellow Fever virus, Dengue virus, West Nile virus and Zika virus (ZIKV). Arbovirus transmission occurs when an infected mosquito probes the host’s skin in search of a blood meal. Salivary proteins from mosquitoes help to acquire blood and have also been shown to enhance pathogen transmission in vivo and in vitro. Here, we evaluated the interaction of mosquito salivary proteins with ZIKV by surface plasmon resonance and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We found that three salivary proteins AAEL000793, AAEL007420, and AAEL006347 bind to the envelope protein of ZIKV with nanomolar affinities. Similar results were obtained using virus-like particles in binding assays. These interactions have no effect on viral replication in cultured endothelial cells and keratinocytes. Additionally, we found detectable antibody levels in ZIKV and DENV serum samples against the recombinant proteins that interact with ZIKV. These results highlight complex interactions between viruses, salivary proteins and antibodies that could be present during viral transmissions.
Spike Gene Evolution and Immune Escape Mutations in Patients with Mild or Moderate Forms of COVID-19 and Treated with Monoclonal Antibodies Therapies
Authors: Jary Aude , Marot Stéphane , Faycal Antoine , Leon Sacha , Sayon Sophie , Zafilaza Karen , Ghidaoui Emna , Quoc Stéphanie Nguyen , Nemlaghi Safaa , Choquet Sylvain , Dres Martin , Pourcher Valérie , Calvez Vincent , Junot Helga , Marcelin Anne-Geneviève , Soulié Cathia
Published: January 2022

We explored the molecular evolution of the spike gene after the administration of anti-spike monoclonal antibodies in patients with mild or moderate forms of COVID-19. Four out of the 13 patients acquired a mutation during follow-up; two mutations (G1204E and E406G) appeared as a mixture without clinical impact, while the Q493R mutation emerged in two patients (one receiving bamlanivimab and one receiving bamlanivimab/etesevimab) with fatal outcomes. Careful virological monitoring of patients treated with mAbs should be performed, especially in immunosuppressed patients.
Coagulation System Activation for Targeting of COVID-19: Insights into Anticoagulants, Vaccine-Loaded Nanoparticles, and Hypercoagulability in COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Abdel-Bakky Mohamed S. , Amin Elham , Ewees Mohamed G. , Mahmoud Nesreen I. , Mohammed Hamdoon A. , Altowayan Waleed M. , Abdellatif Ahmed A. H.
Published: January 2022

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), also known as COVID-19, is currently developing into a rapidly disseminating and an overwhelming worldwide pandemic. In severe COVID-19 cases, hypercoagulability and inflammation are two crucial complications responsible for poor prognosis and mortality. In addition, coagulation system activation and inflammation overlap and produce life-threatening complications, including coagulopathy and cytokine storm, which are associated with overproduction of cytokines and activation of the immune system; they might be a lead cause of organ damage. However, patients with severe COVID-19 who received anticoagulant therapy had lower mortality, especially with elevated D-dimer or fibrin degradation products (FDP). In this regard, the discovery of natural products with anticoagulant potential may help mitigate the numerous side effects of the available synthetic drugs. This review sheds light on blood coagulation and its impact on the complication associated with COVID-19. Furthermore, the sources of natural anticoagulants, the role of nanoparticle formulation in this outbreak, and the prevalence of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) after COVID-19 vaccines are also reviewed. These combined data provide many research ideas related to the possibility of using these anticoagulant agents as a treatment to relieve acute symptoms of COVID-19 infection.
Parents’ and Guardians’ Willingness to Vaccinate Their Children against COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Feifan , He Yalin , Shi Yuan
Published: January 2022

COVID-19 vaccination for children is crucial to achieve herd immunity. This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate parents’ and guardians’ willingness to vaccinate their children against COVID-19 and identify the determinants of vaccination intention. Systematic research was performed on the two databases (PubMed and EMBASE) from inception to 6 November 2021. Acceptance rates were pooled by use of a random-effects model and all predictors of vaccine acceptance were identified according to the health belief model (HBM) framework. This analysis was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021292326) and reported in compliance with the PRISMA guidelines. Of 452 identified records, 29 eligible studies were included (N = 68,327 participants). The estimated worldwide vaccination acceptance rate was 61.40% (95% CI: 53.56–68.69%, I2 = 99.3%), ranging from 21.6% to 91.4% across countries and regions. In the determinant assessment, the age of parents and guardians, access to scientific information and recommendations, routine and influenza vaccination behavior, and the willingness of parents and guardians to vaccinate themselves were potentially significant predictors of the vaccination willingness. Given the limited quality and quantity of included articles, future studies with a rigorous design will be necessary for the confirmation of our findings.
Cellular Immune Response after Vaccination in Patients with Cancer—Review on Past and Present Experiences
Authors: Rüthrich Maria Madeleine , Giesen Nicola , Mellinghoff Sibylle C. , Rieger Christina T. , von Lilienfeld-Toal Marie
Published: January 2022

Patients with cancer are at particular risk for infection but also have diminished vaccine responses, usually quantified by the level of specific antibodies. Nonetheless, vaccines are specifically recommended in this vulnerable patient group. Here, we discuss the cellular part of the vaccine response in patients with cancer. We summarize the experience with vaccines prior to and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in different subgroups, and we discuss why, especially in patients with cancer, T cells may be the more reliable correlate of protection. Finally, we provide a brief outlook on options to improve the cellular response to vaccines.
New Insight in Vaccination and Public Health: A Commentary from Special Issue Editors
Authors: Castiglia Paolo , Arghittu Antonella
Published: January 2022

Vaccination is a key component of primary health care and an indisputable human right [...]
Ex Vivo Evaluation of Mucosal Responses to Vaccination with ALVAC and AIDSVAX of Non-Human Primates
Authors: Herrera Carolina , Veazey Ronald , Lemke Melissa M. , Arnold Kelly , Kim Jerome H. , Shattock Robin J.
Published: January 2022

Non-human primates (NHPs) remain the most relevant challenge model for the evaluation of HIV vaccine candidates; however, discrepancies with clinical trial results have emphasized the need to further refine the NHP model. Furthermore, classical evaluation of vaccine candidates is based on endpoints measured systemically. We assessed the mucosal responses elicited upon vaccination with ALVAC and AIDSVAX using ex vivo Rhesus macaque mucosal tissue explant models. Following booster immunization with ALVAC/AIDSVAX, anti-gp120 HIV-1CM244-specific IgG and IgA were detected in culture supernatant cervicovaginal and colorectal tissue explants, as well as systemically. Despite protection from ex vivo viral challenge, no neutralization was observed with tissue explant culture supernatants. Priming with ALVAC induced distinct cytokine profiles in cervical and rectal tissue. However, ALVAC/AIDSVAX boosts resulted in similar modulations in both mucosal tissues with a statistically significant decrease in cytokines linked to inflammatory responses and lymphocyte differentiation. With ALVAC/AIDSVAX boosts, significant correlations were observed between cytokine levels and specific IgA in cervical explants and specific IgG and IgA in rectal tissue. The cytokine secretome revealed differences between vaccination with ALVAC and ALVAC/AIDSVAX not previously observed in mucosal tissues and distinct from the systemic response, which could represent a biosignature of the vaccine combination.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Response Rates to the Two mRNA SARS-CοV-2 Vaccines in a Large Cohort of Solid Organ Transplant (SOT) Recipients
Authors: Marinaki Smaragdi , Degiannis Dimitrios , Roussos Sotirios , Xagas Efstathios , Tsoutsoura Paraskevi , Adamopoulos Stamatis , Sypsa Vana , Chaidaroglou Antigoni , Pavlopoulou Ioanna D. , Hatzakis Angelos , Boletis Ioannis N.
Published: January 2022

Due to their higher risk of developing life-threatening COVID-19 disease, solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients have been prioritized in the vaccination programs of many countries. However, there is increasing evidence of reduced immunogenicity to SARS-CοV-2 vaccination. The present study investigated humoral response, safety, and effectiveness after the two mRNA vaccines in 455 SOT recipients. Overall, the antibody response rate was low, at 39.6%. Higher immunogenicity was detected among individuals vaccinated with the mRNA1273 compared to those with the BNT162b2 vaccine (47% vs. 36%, respectively, p = 0.025) as well as higher median antibody levels of 31 (7, 372) (AU/mL) vs. 11 (7, 215) AU/mL, respectively. Among the covariates assessed, vaccination with the BNT162b2 vaccine, antimetabolite- and steroid-containing immunosuppression, female gender, the type of transplanted organ and older age were factors that negatively influenced immune response. Only mild adverse effects were observed. Our findings confirm poor immunogenicity after vaccination, implicating a reevaluation of vaccination policy in SOT recipients.
Assessment of the Neutralizing Antibody Response of BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines in Naïve and Previously Infected Individuals: A Comparative Study
Authors: Shurrab Farah M. , Al-Sadeq Duaa W. , Abou-Saleh Haissam , Al-Dewik Nader , Elsharafi Amira E. , Hamaydeh Fatima M. , Halawa Bushra Y. Abo , Jamaleddin Tala M. , Hameed Huda M. Abdul , Nizamuddin Parveen B. , Amanullah Fathima Humaira , Daas Hanin I. , Abu-Raddad Laith J. , Nasrallah Gheyath K.
Published: January 2022

The currently authorized mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, Pfizer-BNT162b2 and Moderna-mRNA-1273, offer great promise for reducing the spread of the COVID-19 by generating protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2. Recently, it was shown that the magnitude of the neutralizing antibody (NAbs) response correlates with the degree of protection. However, the difference between the immune response in naïve mRNA-vaccinated and previously infected (PI) individuals is not well studied. We investigated the level of NAbs in naïve and PI individuals after 1 to 26 (median = 6) weeks of the second dose of BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273 vaccination. The naïve mRNA-1273 vaccinated group (n = 68) generated significantly higher (~2-fold, p ≤ 0.001) NAbs than the naïve BNT162b2 (n = 358) group. The P -vaccinated group (n = 42) generated significantly higher (~3-fold; p ≤ 0.001) NAbs levels than the naïve-BNT162b2 (n = 426). Additionally, the older age groups produced a significantly higher levels of antibodies than the young age group (<30) (p = 0.0007). Our results showed that mRNA-1273 generated a higher NAbs response than the BNT162b2 vaccine, and the PI group generated the highest level of NAbs response regardless of the type of vaccine.
Liver Injury in Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19: Possible Role of Therapy
Authors: Gabrielli Maurizio , Franza Laura , Esperide Alessandra , Gasparrini Irene , Gasbarrini Antonio , Franceschi Francesco ,   on behalf of GEMELLI AGAINST COVID 2019
Published: January 2022

Patients with COVID-19 show a high prevalence of liver injury. The pattern of this liver damage is still not fully understood. Different etiopathogenetic factors may concur; from a direct cytopathic effect, once the virus binds to the ACE-2 receptors, to the immune-mediated collateral damage, due to cytokine storm. The presence of pre-existing chronic liver disease is a contributing factor for acute organ damage during SARS-CoV2 infection. Last but not least, treatments probably play a role, also, in determining hepatotoxicity: many of the drugs we have used or are still using to treat COVID-19, combined with non-invasive ventilation, are known to sometimes determine acute liver injury. Although liver damage associated with COVID-19 is often transient and can resolve without any special treatment, it is important to understand the underlying mechanisms, particularly to better treat its more severe forms.
Pathogens Detected in 205 German Farms with Porcine Neonatal Diarrhea in 2017
Authors: Mertens Nicolas , Theuß Tobias , Köchling Monika , Dohmann Karen , Lillie-Jaschniski Kathrin
Published: January 2022

Neonatal diarrhea (ND) is still a frequently observed problem in modern industrial pig production. ND is predominantly caused by bacterial and viral pathogens. The objective of this study was to give an overview of different pathogens involved in ND in Germany. In 2017, a total number of 555 litters from 205 German pig farms with clinical ND were sampled with pooled fecal samples. All samples were analyzed regarding bacterial pathogens by culture and viral pathogens by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Isolated strains of Clostridium (C.) perfringens, Escherichia (E.) coli, and C. difficile were further characterized by molecular techniques (e.g., PCR). There were 200 litters (36%), out of 555 sampled litters of 205 farms, which were positive for at least one, while most of them were positive for two or more pathogens. Toxin-producing C. perfringens type A could be detected in 122 farms (59.2%), C. difficile in 116 (56.1%), pathogenic E. coli in 79 (38.6%), and Rotavirus type A in 72 (35%). Among E. coli isolates, enterotoxigenic (8.8%) (F4 fimbriae positive (60.0%)) and necrotoxigenic E. coli (5.3%) were the most frequently detected pathotypes. In conclusion, in most of the farms with porcine ND it turned out to be a disease mainly caused by multiple pathogens, predominantly C. perfringens type A, pathogenic E. coli, and Rotavirus type A. Nevertheless, C. difficile and necrotoxigenic E. coli might be emerging pathogens in ND.
Estimating Phosphorus and COD Concentrations Using a Hybrid Soft Sensor: A Case Study in a Norwegian Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant
Authors: Nair Abhilash , Hykkerud Aleksander , Ratnaweera Harsha
Published: January 2022

Online monitoring of wastewater quality parameters is vital for an efficient and stable operation of wastewater treatment plants (WWTP). Several WWTPs rely on daily/weekly analysis of water samples rather than online automated wet-analyzers due to their high capital and maintenance costs. Soft-sensors are emerging as a viable alternative for real-time monitoring of parameters that either lack a reliable measuring principle or are measured using expensive online sensors. This paper presents the development, implementation, and validation of a hybrid soft sensor used to estimate Total Phosphorus (TP) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) in the influent and effluent streams of a full-scale WWTP. A systematic method for cleaning and processing sensor data, identifying statistically significant correlations, and developing a mathematical model, is discussed. A non-intrusive Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) infrastructure for soft-sensor deployment and a web-based GUI for data visualization are also presented in this work. The values of TP and COD estimated by the soft sensor are validated by comparing the estimated values to the daily average of their corresponding lab measurements. The data validation results demonstrate the potential of soft sensors in providing real-time values of essential wastewater quality parameters with an acceptable degree of accuracy.
Autoencoders for Semi-Supervised Water Level Modeling in Sewer Pipes with Sparse Labeled Data
Authors: Plana Rius Ferran , Philipsen Mark P. , Mirats Tur Josep Maria , Moeslund Thomas B. , Angulo Bahón Cecilio , Casas Marc
Published: January 2022

More frequent and thorough inspection of sewer pipes has the potential to save billions in utilities. However, the amount and quality of inspection are impeded by an imprecise and highly subjective manual process. It involves technicians judging stretches of sewer based on video from remote-controlled robots. Determining the state of sewer pipes based on these videos entails a great deal of ambiguity. Furthermore, the frequency with which the different defects occur differs a lot, leading to highly imbalanced datasets. Such datasets represent a poor basis for automating the labeling process using supervised learning. With this paper we explore the potential of self-supervision as a method for reducing the need for large numbers of well-balanced labels. First, our models learn to represent the data distribution using more than a million unlabeled images, then a small number of labeled examples are used to learn a mapping from the learned representations to a relevant target variable, in this case, water level. We choose a convolutional Autoencoder, a Variational Autoencoder and a Vector-Quantised Variational Autoencoder as the basis for our experiments. The best representations are shown to be learned by the classic Autoencoder with the Multi-Layer Perceptron achieving a Mean Absolute Error of 9.93. This is an improvement of 9.62 over the fully supervised baseline.
Base Flow Variation and Attribution Analysis Based on the Budyko Theory in the Weihe River Basin
Authors: Mu Zheng , Liu Guanpeng , Lin Shuai , Fan Jingjing , Qin Tianling , Li Yunyun , Cheng Yao , Zhou Bin
Published: January 2022

The composition and change of runoff are closely related to climate change and human activities. To design effective watershed water resources management measures, there is a need for a clear understanding of the impact of climate change and human activities on baseflow and surface runoff. The purpose of this essay is to quantify their impact on the annual total stream flow, surface runoff, and base flow in the Weihe River Basin (WRB) using a two-stage annual precipitation partitioning method, wherein the surface runoff and base flow are separated from the measured total flow by using a one-parameter digital filter method for which the common filter parameter value is 0.925. The stream flow records were split into two periods: 1960–1970 (pre-change period) and 1971–2005 (post-change period) based on the hydrological breakpoints detected. We found that climate change and human activities have different impacts on base flow and surface runoff. We attributed the decrease in surface runoff due to climate change accounting for 76–78%, while we determined that human activities were responsible to the decrease in base flow accounting for 59–73% of the total observed change. We concluded that both climate change and human beings contributed to the hydrologic change through different hydrological processes: climate change dominated the surface runoff change, while human influences controlled the base flow change. To achieve the expected goals of ecological restoration, appropriate measures must be taken by watershed management in the WRB to mitigate the likely impacts of climate change on water hydrology.
Combination of Managed Aquifer Recharge and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point Principles for Reliable Drinking Water Supply
Authors: Ji Hyon Wook , Lee Sang-Il
Published: January 2022

In this study, to address drinking water supply problems, a new drinking water supply system that combines the aquifer storage transfer and recovery (ASTR) technique and hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) was introduced. ASTR, a type of managed aquifer recharge, protects and purifies water resources using aquifers, whereas HACCP increases drinking water safety by analyzing and controlling hazards. The system was applied by installing an ASTR pilot plant in the Samrak Park in the Nakdong River delta in South Korea where the deteriorating water quality of the water supply sources has affected the drinking water supply. HACCP analysis revealed that 114 hazardous events occurred during various stages of water processing from the water intake source to the consumers. The analysis of the risks of these events revealed that nine of these risks can be considered as major hazardous events. In addition, the analysis of potential risks using a stochastic methodology revealed that the Gangseo-gu District in Busan exhibited the highest potential risk. Furthermore, critical control points were determined using a decision tree, and management criteria, management methods, verification methods, documentation, and recording methods were proposed. These results indicate that the application of HACCP to ASTR can improve drinking water safety.
Heavy Metals and As in Ground Water, Surface Water, and Sediments of Dexing Giant Cu-Polymetallic Ore Cluster, East China
Authors: Pan Hanjiang , Zhou Guohua , Yang Rong , Cheng Zhizhong , Sun Binbin
Published: January 2022

Heavy metals and As (HMs) pollution in mining areas are a widespread environmental concern. In this study, ground water, surface water, and sediment samples around the Dexing area, one of the largest Cu-polymetallic ore clusters in China, were collected to examine the concentrations and distributions of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Pb, and Zn. Pollution indices, geo-accumulation index, and potential ecological risk index were used to estimate the pollution characteristics and ecological risk of HMs. The results show that the major pollutants in the surface water were Cd, Cu, Zn, and Pb, while the dominant ecological risk of HMs in the sediments originated from Cu, As, Hg, and Cd. Moreover, HMs in the surface water and sediments exhibited substantial spatial heterogeneity in the study area, indicating a severely disturbed environment due to mining activities. The proportions of HM pollutions were higher in the Dexing River and its tributaries than in the Le’an River and its tributaries. The surface water pollution was predominant at the tributaries closest to the mine area, while the sediment contamination has been expanded several kilometers downstream of the major rivers. Overall, the ecological risk of HMs was higher in the sediments than in the surface water.
Using Sawdust Derived Biochar as a Novel 3D Particle Electrode for Micropollutants Degradation
Authors: Petala Athanasia , Bampos Georgios , Frontistis Zacharias
Published: January 2022

This work examined the use of a 3D combined electrochemical process based on particle electrodes from sawdust-derived biochar pyrolized at T = 550–850 °C to remove persistent pollutants. The as-prepared biochar was characterized by scanning electron microscopy with an X-ray energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM/EDS), nitrogen adsorption (BET method) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The use of sawdust biochar pyrolized at 650 °C led to a significant increase in efficiency against the sum of conventional 2D electrochemical systems and adsorption, and the synergy index estimated equal to 74.5% at optimum conditions. Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) removal was favored by increasing particle electrode loading. Despite that, the reaction was slightly favored in near-neutral conditions; the system retained most of its activity in the pH range 3–10. The proposed 3D system could degrade different micropollutants, namely SMX, Bisphenol A (BPA), Propylparaben (PP), and Piroxicam (PR). Of particular interest was that no significant reduction in degradation was observed in the case of complex or real water matrices. In addition, the system retained its efficiency regarding SMX removal after five sequential experiments in the 3D combined electrochemical process. However, further investigation is needed to estimate the contribution of the different mechanisms of micropollutant removal in the proposed system.
Clinical Events and Renal Function in the First Year Predict Long-Term Kidney Transplant Survival
Authors: Schold Jesse D. , Nordyke Robert J. , Wu Zheng , Corvino Frank , Wang Weiying , Mohan Sumit
Published: January 2022

Background

Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at 1 year post transplantation has been shown to be a strong predictor of long-term graft survival. However, intercurrent events (ICEs) may affect the relationship between eGFR and failure risk.

Methods

The OPTN and USRDS databases on single-organ kidney transplant recipients from 2012 to 2016 were linked. Competing risk regressions estimated adjusted subhazard ratios (SHRs) of 12-month eGFR on long-term graft failure, considering all-cause mortality as the competing risk, for deceased donor (DD) and living donor (LD) recipients. Additional predictors included recipient, donor, and transplant characteristics. ICEs examined were acute rejection, cardiovascular events, and infections.

Results

Cohorts comprised 25,131 DD recipients and 7471 LD recipients. SHRs for graft failure increased rapidly as 12-month eGFR values decreased from the reference 60 ml/min per 1.73 m2. At an eGFR of 20 ml/min per 1.73 m2, SHRs were 13–15 for DD recipients and 12–13 for LD recipients; at an eGFR of 30 ml/min per 1.73 m2, SHRs were 5.0–5.7 and 5.0–5.5, respectively. Among first-year ICEs, acute rejection was a significant predictor of long-term graft failure in both DD (SHR=1.63, P<0.001) and LD (SHR=1.51, P=0.006) recipients; cardiovascular events were significant in DD (SHR=1.24, P<0.001), whereas non-CMV infections were significant in the LD cohort (SHR=1.32, P=0.03). Adjustment for ICEs did not significantly reduce the association of eGFR with graft failure.

Conclusions

Twelve-month eGFR is a strong predictor of long-term graft failure after accounting for clinical events occurring from discharge to 1 year. These findings may improve patient management and clinical evaluation of novel interventions.
New and innovative consumer demands and expectations on the Hungarian food market
Authors: Töröcsik Mária , Pál Eszter , Jakopánecz Eszter
Published: January 2022

Food and eating have always encompassed more than the simple intake of nutrients; therefore, when thinking about food consumption, we need to examine several groups of influencing factors whose correlations from the aspect of the consumer are described by a complicated matrix. This paper focuses on the selection of signs indicating new and innovative consumer behaviours, and on the megatrends that are the driving forces of transitions and that lead to the consequences of strikingly reconsidered consumer decisions nowadays. The authors stress that there are qualitative and structural changes in food consumption in Hungary, with an increasing quantity of differentiated consumer demands appearing, a few of them influencing our everyday decisions even atthe concept level. The findings of primary research originated from a personal questionnaire survey consisting of 2001 respondents, in which we also focused on the attitude towards eating and media consumption related to gastronomy.This paper is an introduction to the market segments detectable in the present Hungarian population aged 15–74 in the topics concerned.
Livestock production development in AP Vojvodina
Authors: Trivunović Snežana , Štrbac Ljuba , Janković Dobrila , Ivanović Draško , Radović Ivan , Mirkov Mile , Pihler Ivan , Bjedov Siniša , Šaran Momčilo
Published: January 2022

The aim of this paper is to present the effects of breeding program implementation on the development of animal breeding in Vojvodina since 2010. Data from the Main breeding organization (controlled population) and data from the Statistical Office of the Republic of Serbia (total population) were used as a basis for this research. The main breeding organization is the Departmant ofAnimal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad that implemented the main breeding programs in cattle, pig, sheep, goat, horse and poultry production. The milk yield in a recorded population of Holstein Friesian and Simmental cows shows evident phenotypic increasing trend as opposed to a population that is not controlled. The results of the selection measures in Vojvodina show that pig breeding has an upward trend and that we have an increasing number of small and medium (family) farms. Interest in sheep and goat production is increasing primarily because of the high demand for products made from sheep meat and goat milk and meat. In the recent decades, Vojvodina has been faced with a decrease in the number of horses. At the same time, there is an increasing interest in sports horses and recreation. According to poultry production results of parental flocks, an increasing tendency was  observed in the production of controlled flocks recently, while the number of breeding stock breeders was reduced.
Long-term effect of soil management on the carbon-dioxide emission of the soil
Authors: Zsembeli József , Kovács Györgyi , Czellér Krisztina , Tuba Géza
Published: January 2022

CO2 emission from soils is one of the most important elements of the global carbon cycle, thus it has crucial rule in climate change. Each soil cultivation operation intervenes in the microbiological life of the soil, hence tillage is a factor through that the processes taking place in soil can be controlled. During the last decades, the organic material content of agricultural soils decreased to the half due to the intensive management resulting in the degradation of natural soil fertility. While intensive, plough-based tillage can cause soil degradation and erosion, the physical, chemical and biological status of the soil can be significantly improved through the application of conservation tillage methods. The results of long-term experiments prove that soil protective tillage enhances the  enrichment of organic matter in the top layer of the soil. In order to reveal the role of tillage systems in CO2 emission from the soil,  regular measurements were carried out in the plots with conventional and reduced tillage of the soil cultivation experiment of Research Institute of Karcag. Anagas CD 98 and Gas Alert Micro 5w infrared gas analysers were used to measure CO2-concentrations, and a specially developed method (consisting of a frame and a bowl) was applied to delimitate the measuring area. Most of the  measurements were done on stubbles after harvest in order to exclude root respiration. The weather conditions of the examined 10 years were very changeable providing a good chance to compare them to each other. We found the tillage operations resulting in  higher emission values in both tillage systems. On stubbles higher and more even emission was characteristic to reduced tillage due to the lower degree of soil disturbance and higher soil moisture content.
ANALISIS NEGOSIASI DALAM PROSES AKUISISI LUCASFILM LTD. OLEH THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
Authors: Sofyan Absherina Zahira , Barkah Cecep Safaatul , Novel Nurillah Jamil Achmawati
Published: January 2022

Business acquisition is one of the steps taken by the company in its business expansion strategy, as did by the Walt Disney Company by acquiring production company, Lucasfilm Ltd. In the business acquisition process, negotiation is an inherent thing and becomes one of the stages that must be carried out during the process. Therefore, good negotiation techniques and strategies need to be applied to get a profitable agreement. This study was conducted to determine the negotiation process and the strategy used by Disney in the Lucasfilm acquisition process. The method used in this research is literature study with sources derived from books, scientific articles, reports, and media publications. The results of this study indicate that in the Lucasfilm acquisition process an integrative negotiation approach was applied. Disney applies a negotiation strategy, namely by fostering trust from the opposing party and providing mutual benefits. From the negotiations, an agreement was obtained that provided value for both parties and can be concluded as mutually beneficial.

Key words: Acquisition, Negotiation, Integrative Negotiation
ANALISIS SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING DAN BRAND AWARENESS TERHADAP IMPULSIVE BUYING
Authors: Mariah Mariah , Dara Siti Ruhana
Published: January 2022

This study aims to analyze social media marketing ads and brand awareness of impulse buying in the MSME sector for home-based ethnic clothing products at Ethnicnesia Online Stores. This research uses quantitative research with 94 respondents who are consumers who usually buy ethnic clothes made of woven fabrics. The sampling method was purposive sampling. This study uses quantitative research methods by conducting surveys, the results of validity and reliability tests using SPSS v 20.0, and hypothesis testing is carried out using simple linear regression method.

Keywords: social media marketing, brand awareness, impulsive buying.
Risk Factors Affecting Survival Time of Breast Cancer Patients: The Case of Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Bacha Reta Habtamu , Jabir Yasin Negash , Asebot Anberbir Girma , Liga Abebe Debu
Published: January 2022

Background: Breast cancer is one of the non-communicable diseases and the main origin of the loss of life in the world. In Ethiopia, breast cancer is the second common cancer health problem for women. The main objective of this study was to identify the potential risk factors affecting the survival time of breast cancer patients in Southwest Ethiopia. Study design: A retrospective study design. Methods: The data were taken from the patients’ medical records that registered from January 1, 2015, to January 31, 2020. A retrospective study design was used in this study. Different shared frailty survival models were employed to analyze the dataset. Results: Out of 642 recorded breast cancer patients, 447(69.6%) cases died during the study period, and 195 (30.4%) patients lost follow-up for unknown reasons. The median time to death for breast cancer patients was 10 months, and hospitals were used as a cluster effect. The result revealed that women with no smoking habit had about 3.35 times higher survival time than patients who had a smoking habit, and as breast cancer patients age increased, the survival time decreased by 0.99. Moreover, breast cancer patients in rural areas had about 0.14 times lower survival time, compared to breast cancer patients who were urban residents. Conclusions: Age, place of residence, treatment taken, stage, histologic grade, tumor size, oral contraceptives, and smoking habits led to a shorter survival time. To reduce the burden of breast cancer, awareness should be given to the community.
Nonlinear Physical Growth of Children from Infancy to Middle Adolescence in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Wake Senahara Korsa , Zewotir Temesgen , Muluneh Essey Kebede
Published: January 2022

Background: The growth curve has a significant role in understanding the growth trajectories over time and examining the mathematical relationship between the outcome variable and time. Study design: A longitudinal prospective cohort study. Methods: This study aimed to identify a nonlinear growth curve that best represents the growth trajectories in children’s physical growth from ages 1 to 15 years. The data were obtained from the Young Lives study conducted in Ethiopia, India, Peru, and Vietnam. Nonlinear growth curves were studied through the families of three-parameter nonlinear mixed-effects models. Results: The study examined the performances of different three-parameter nonlinear growth curves for the growth trajectory analysis, and the Logistic curve was chosen for the trajectory analysis. Gender and country differences had significant effects on the child’s growth. Females reached asymptotic height earlier and shorter than males. The mean height values at the end of the growth stage for children in Ethiopia, India, Peru, and Vietnam were 171.78, 170.37, 171.30, 174.31cm, respectively. Children in Ethiopia approached adult height earlier than those in India but later than children in Peru. However, no significant growth change was observed between children in Ethiopia and Vietnam. This indicates that children in Ethiopia and Vietnam have no significant differences regarding approaching adult height. Conclusion: The study concludes that the Logistic curve was found to be the best growth curve to describe the growth trajectories. Children in all four countries exhibited different growth parameters.
Evaluation of microleakage of three different endodontic sealers in the presence and absence of moisture
Authors: Razavian Hamid , Hanjani Kimia , Hanjani Kiana , Mirmohammadi Hesam , Shabanian Boroujeni Alireza
Published: January 2022

Background and aims: AH26, Master-Dent, and Endoseal mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) are three different types of sealers. The purpose of this study was to assess and compare THE apical seal of the root canal-treated teeth with the above-mentioned sealers in the presence and absence of moisture using the fluid filtration method. Methods: To this end, 54 freshly extracted single root canal human canines were selected for this study. The canals were prepared using rotary instruments, and then sodium hypochlorite was applied as an irrigation solution in this protocol. The specimens were randomly divided into three groups of 18. One group was obturated with the gutta-percha by the cold lateral compaction technique. Half of one of the aforementioned sealers belonged to the group of moistened teeth and the other half to the group of the dried teeth. Microleakage in all groups was assessed 3 months after the obturation of canals by the fluid filtration method. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc tests, and the level of significance was set at P<0.05. Results: The results showed that the minimum and maximum micro-leakage belonged to Masterdent dry (mean leakage = 1.7778 μL/ min/CmH20) and Endoseal-MTA dry (mean leakage = 3.5000 μL/min/CmH20), respectively. All three groups of sealers exhibited a significant difference in apical micro-leakage between dry and moist conditions (PMasterdent <0.001, PAH26=0.002, and PEndoseaL-MTA =0.007). Conclusion: The findings of this experimental study demonstrated that Masterdent provided the least apical micro-leakage under dry conditions while Endoseal-MTA had the highest micro-leakage under these conditions. There was a significant difference between dry and moist conditions in all groups.
The effect of eight weeks of interval training and quercetin nanoliposome supplementation on NF-κB and FGF-2 gene expression in the heart tissue of myocardial infarction rats
Authors: Zaheri Abdehvand Samira , Jalali Dehkordi Khosro , Taghian Farzaneh
Published: January 2022

Background and aims: The activation of inflammatory reactions is essential immediately after the onset of myocardial infarction (MI). On the other hand, the path of inflammatory activators should be controlled to prevent the recurrence of MI. In this vein, the aim of this study was to examine the effect of eight weeks of interval training and quercetin nanoliposome consumption on nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) gene expression in the heart tissue of MI rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 30 male rats, aged approximately 6-8 weeks, were randomly divided into five groups including MI + training, MI + supplement, MI + training + supplement, healthy control, and MI. The MI was induced by the subcutaneous injection of isoprenaline hydrochloride at a dose of 80 mg/kg. Quercetin was daily administered at a dose of 0.25 mg for 8 weeks, and interval training was performed 5 days a week. NF-κB and FGF-2 gene expressions were measured by the real-time polymerase chain reaction. Finally, data were analyzed using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc tests (P<0.05). Results: Training significantly increased NF-κB gene expression in the MI+ training, MI + supplement, and MI + training + supplement groups (P=0.001) while significantly decreasing FGF-2 gene expression in the MI group (P=0.04). Conclusion: Interval training may prevent the negative effects of MI by reducing pro-inflammatory gene expression in the heart tissue, leading to improved cardiovascular function and the prevention of this disease.
ĐÀO TẠO NGHỀ, TẠO SINH KẾ BỀN VỮNG CHO ĐỒNG BÀO CÁC DÂN TỘC THIỂU SỐ Ở VÙNG 135 TỈNH THÁI NGUYÊN
Authors: Hà Nguyễn Thị Thu
Published: January 2022

Bài viết đề cập đến vấn đề đào tạo nghề, tạo sinh kế bền vững cho đồng bào các dân tộc thiểu số ở các vùng 135 tỉnh Thái Nguyên. Bài nghiên cứu sử dụng phương pháp phân tích định tính dựa trên số liệu thứ cấp và kết quả điều tra khảo sát của 150 hộ gia đình ở các xã thuộc vùng 135 của tỉnh. Kết quả nghiên cứu cho thấy đa số các hộ gia đình chưa có sinh kế ổn định. Phần lớn các hộ gia đình đều có chung sinh kế là sản xuất nông nghiệp đơn thuần, sản xuất chủ yếu dựa theo những kinh nghiệm dân gian của cha ông để lại.  Phương thức sản xuất còn lạc hậu, trình độ lao đông thấp, chưa áp dụng những thành tựu khoa học kỹ thuật vào sản xuất nên chưa mang lại hiệu quả kinh tế cao,vì vậy đời sống còn gặp nhiều khó khăn. Do vậy, hoạt động đào tạo nghề, tạo sinh kế cho đồng bào các dân tộc thiểu số ở vùng 135 là hướng đi đúng đắn và mang lại hiệu quả lâu dài, ổn định cuộc sống cho đồng bào các dân tộc thiểu số ở nơi đây.