bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Communities’ Willingness to Accept Compensation for Sustainable Ecosystem Management in Wadi Araba, South of Jordan
Authors: Al-Assaf Amani , Albalawneh Abeer , Majdalawi Mohammad , Nowar Lana Abu , Kabariti Rabab , Hjazin Amgad , Aljaafreh Safaa , Hammour Wafa’a Abu , Diab Mai , Haddad Nizar
Published: May 2021

In developing countries, like Jordan, climate change and population growth have prompted land-use and land-cover changes that have profoundly affected ESs, especially by poor people living in fragile ecosystems. This study aimed to analyze the attitudes towards ES among households living in Wadi Araba, a study area located in a dry ecosystem with limited natural resources, as well as to determine the value of ES and the main socio-economic and perceptions factors influencing households’ willingness to accept (WTA) compensation according to the families’ priorities. The face-to-face method was used to interview a random sample of 296 residents from the study sites, using a structured questionnaire to capture the accepted level of compensation for conservation by the local community. Additionally, multiple linear regression analysis was applied to determine the main socio-economic factors affecting WTA. More than 91% of the respondents were willing to accept compensation for three different conservation plans that reflect the resident’s priority. For the three priorities, the weighted average of the compensation levels was JOD 436, 339, 261 per household per year, respectively, and the aggregate values were about JOD (1,196,977.8, 930,601.2, and 719,411.8, respectively) (JOD 1 = USD 1.41). The residents’ gender, age, and income were among the most important factors that affect the compensation level. The main policy implications are that the government and non-governmental organizations should strengthen advocacy and education of arid ecological and natural resources protection, besides including the local community in any decisions in establishing differentiated compensation strategies and regulations. Eventually, the conservation and restoration activities will become self-initiated.
Climate Change Impact and Variability on Cereal Productivity among Smallholder Farmers under Future Production Systems in West Africa
Authors: MacCarthy Dilys S. , Adam Myriam , Freduah Bright S. , Fosu-Mensah Benedicta Yayra , Ampim Peter A. Y. , Ly Mouhamed , Traore Pierre S. , Adiku Samuel G. K.
Published: May 2021

Agriculture in West Africa is constrained by several yield-limiting factors, such as poor soil fertility, erratic rainfall distributions and low input systems. Projected changes in climate, thus, pose a threat since crop production is mainly rain-fed. The impact of climate change and its variation on the productivity of cereals in smallholder settings under future production systems in Navrongo, Ghana and Nioro du Rip, Senegal was assessed in this study. Data on management practices obtained from household surveys and projected agricultural development pathways (through stakeholder engagements), soil data, weather data (historical: 1980–2009 and five General Circulation Models; mid-century time slice 2040–2069 for two Representative Concentration Pathways; 4.5 and 8.5) were used for the impact assessment, employing a crop simulation model. Ensemble maize yield changes under the sustainable agricultural development pathway (SDP) were −13 and −16%, while under the unsustainable development pathway (USDP), yield changes were −19 and −20% in Navrongo and Nioro du Rip, respectively. The impact on sorghum and millet were lower than that on maize. Variations in climate change impact among smallholders were high with relative standard deviations (RSD) of between 14% and 60% across the cereals with variability being higher under the USDP, except for millet. Agricultural production systems with higher intensification but with less emphasis on soil conservation (USDP) will be more negatively impacted by climate change compared to relatively sustainable ones (SDP).
Correction: Dillman et al. Review and Meta-Analysis of EVs: Embodied Emissions and Environmental Breakeven. Sustainability 2020, 12, 9390
Authors: Dillman Kevin Joseph , Árnadóttir Áróra , Heinonen Jukka , Czepkiewicz Michał , Davíðsdóttir Brynhildur
Published: May 2021

The authors would like to make the following corrections about the published paper [...]
q-Generalized Tangent Based Hybrid Polynomials
Authors: Yasmin Ghazala , Islahi Hibah , Choi Junesang
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we incorporate two known polynomials to introduce so-called 2-variable q-generalized tangent based Apostol type Frobenius–Euler polynomials. Next we present a number of properties and formulas for these polynomials such as explicit expressions, series representations, summation formulas, addition formula, q-derivative and q-integral formulas, together with numerous particular cases of the new polynomials and their associated formulas demonstrated in two tables. Further, by using computer-aided programs (for example, Mathematica or Matlab), we draw graphs of some particular cases of the new polynomials, mainly, in order to observe in several angles how zeros of these polynomials are distributed and located. Lastly we provide numerous observations and questions which naturally arise amid the present investigation.
Composite Structures with Symmetry
Authors: Marin Marin , Băleanu Dumitru , Vlase Sorin
Published: May 2021

In recent years, the use of composite materials in structural applications has been observed. The composites have revolutionized the field of materials and allow for interesting and new developments in different engineering branches. At the same time, in all areas of engineering, there are some products or parts of products or components that contain repetitive or identical elements. Here, different types of symmetry can occur. Such systems have been studied by various researchers in the last few decades. In civil engineering, for example, most buildings, works of art, halls, etc. have, in their structure, identical parts and symmetries. This has happened since antiquity, for different reasons. First, because of their easier, faster, and cheaper design, and second, because of their easy manufacturing and (less important for engineers, but important to the beneficiaries) for aesthetic reasons. The symmetry in the field of composite materials manifests itself in two different ways, at two levels—one due to the symmetries that appear in the composition of the composite materials and that determine the properties of the materials, and second in the structures manufactured with composites. The study of the obvious importance of the existence of symmetries in the design of composite materials or composite structures of a sandwich type, for example (but also other types), and of the existence of symmetries in structures constructed also using composite materials will be highlighted within this Special Issue. With this Issue, we want to disseminate knowledge among researchers, designers, manufacturers, and users in this exciting field.
Preemptive Prediction-Based Automated Cyberattack Framework Modeling
Authors: Ryu Sungwook , Kim Jinsu , Park Namje , Seo Yongseok
Published: May 2021

As the development of technology accelerates, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which combines various technologies and provides them as one service, has been in the spotlight, and services using big data, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) are becoming more intelligent and helpful to users. As these services are used in various fields, attacks by attackers also occur in various areas and ways. However, cyberattacks by attackers may vary depending on the attacking pattern of the attacker, and the same vulnerability can be attacked from different perspectives. Therefore, in this study, by constructing a cyberattack framework based on preemptive prediction, we can collect vulnerability information based on big data existing on the network and increase the accuracy by applying machine learning to the mapping of keywords frequently mentioned in attack strategies. We propose an attack strategy prediction framework.
Effects of Asymmetry between Design Models and User Models on Subjective Comprehension of User Interface
Authors: Doi Toshihisa
Published: May 2021

This study attempted to discuss the design principles for enhancing usability in terms of asymmetry of mental models between users and designers. If the user model is asymmetrical to the design model, i.e., the degree of agreement between models is low and the user’s mental model is not compatible with the actual system, the user cannot operate the system properly, which may cause errors. The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of users who have asymmetrical mental models and identify what such users did not understand. Twenty-four subjects participated in an experiment that involved a digital camera operation task and mental model tests that measure the level of the agreement of the mental model construction in terms of functional and structural models. Initially, the participants were grouped based on mental model test scores: symmetrical mental model group (n = 17) and asymmetrical mental model group (n = 7). Then, the groups were compared in terms of performance and subjective comprehension. The comparison indicated that the symmetrical mental model group performed more quickly and accurately than the asymmetrical group. The results also confirmed that the asymmetrical mental model group had a lower level of comprehension in terms of understanding the device status, detecting and responding to device status changes, and understanding the hierarchical structure of the screen.
Scale Symmetry of Stochastic Surface Clustering under Plasma Influence in Fusion Devices
Authors: Budaev Viacheslav Petrovich
Published: May 2021

Titanium, tungsten, carbon, lithium, and beryllium surface structure were analyzed after plasma irradiation in fusion devices. Exceptional extreme high-temperature plasma load in fusion devices leads to specific surface clustering. It is strictly different from any other conditions of material’s clustering. The hierarchical granularity with cauliflower-like shape and surface self-similarity have been observed. Height’s distribution is deviated from the Gaussian function. The relief roughness differs qualitatively from the ordinary Brownian surface and from clustering under other conditions. In fusion devices, the specific conditions regulate material surface clustering faced to plasma. Ions and clusters melt on the surface and move under the effect of stochastic electromagnetic field driven by the near-wall turbulent plasma. In such a process, long-term correlations lead to the growth of surface with a self-similar structure. The multiscale synergistic effects influence the self-similarity–fractal growth from nanometers to millimeters. Experimental results illustrate universality of stochastic clustering of materials irradiated with plasma in fusion devices.
Resource-Allocation Mechanism: Game-Theory Analysis
Authors: Chang Shu-Lin , Lee Kun-Chang , Huang Ruey-Rong , Liao Yu-Hsien
Published: May 2021

Recently, owing to the trend of cross-disciplinary research in various fields, it is imperative to optimize the resource-allocation performance by analyzing allocation behavior and strategies from different perspectives as well as based on ideas from various fields. There are many decisive roles, such as changes in allocation behavior, related allocation methods, and the interaction and work effectiveness of strategies, to be implemented. By using game-theory analysis under resource-allocation procedures, in this article, we analyzed, constructed, simulated, and derived an efficient resource-allocation mechanism. Additionally, we generalized a power index by evaluating the operators and their activity levels. This article adopted the axioms of level completeness, criterion for weighted circumstances property, level synchronization, pure excess equal symmetry, and specific consonance to offer characterizations to assess the related rationality and accuracy of the proposed power index. Based on the above discussion, different from the rule of thumb, expert meeting, or other existing concepts, in this research game theory is used to provide an alternative guide for resource-allocation procedures by the optimal or equilibrium state established.
Wigner Function Non-Classicality Induced in a Charge Qubit Interacting with a Dissipative Field Cavity
Authors: Mohamed Abdel-Baset A. , Khalil Eied M. , AL-Rezami Afrah Y. , Eleuch Hichem
Published: May 2021

We explore a superconducting charge qubit interacting with a dissipative microwave cavity field. Wigner distribution and its non-classicality are investigated analytically under the effects of the qubit–cavity interaction, the qubit–cavity detuning, and the dissipation. As the microwave cavity field is initially in an even coherent state, we investigate the non-classicality of the Wigner distributions. Partially and maximally frozen entanglement are produced by the qubit–cavity interaction, depending on detuning and cavity dissipation. It is found that the amplitudes and frequency of the Wigner distribution can be controlled by the phase space parameters, the qubit–cavity interaction and the detuning, as well as by the dissipation. The cavity dissipation reduces the non-classicality; this process can be accelerated by the detuning.
Novel Pilot-Scale Technology for Refinery Flare Flue Gas Carbon Capture and Storage Using Cost-Effective Adsorbents
Authors: Sarauta Abdulkadir , Mohammed Dabo Ibrahim Ali
Published: May 2021

This paper introduced the use of two new adsorbents, Akrosorb soda-lime and Bentonite clay, for refinery flare flue gas capture and storage. This study also developed a novel pilot plant model with 409.7149 kg/h capacity refinery flare emission capture with a novel adsorption column configuration using Akrosorb soda-lime and Bentonite clay adsorbents. The flare flue gas adsorption unit was designed, fabricated, test run, and commissioned. The adsorption column temperature is 28 ± 10 °C and has a pressure of 131.7 kPa. The novel plant RSM optimization result shows that 93.24% of CO2 and 62.18% of CO were absorbed, while 86.14% of NOx and 55.87% of HC were absorbed. The established optimum conditions of CO2, NOx, HC, and CO removal efficiency are 22 °C, 2 atm, and 60 min. The variation in flare gas emission could impact the removal efficiency of the plant. The results show the maximum adsorption ability or capacity of 314.30 mg/g, and 68.90 mg/g was reached at 60 min for Akrosorb soda-lime and molded Bentonite adsorbents. Therefore, the developed novel technology for CO2 and other GHG capture is technically feasible and friendly. The combined usage of both adsorbents will enhance the capture of GHG at a low cost compared to using Akrosorb alone as an adsorbent.
Extraction and Application of Pigment from Serratia marcescens SB08, an Insect Enteric Gut Bacterium, for Textile Dyeing
Authors: Venil Chidambaram Kulandaisamy , Dufossé Laurent , Velmurugan Palanivel , Malathi Mahalingam , Lakshmanaperumalsamy Perumalsamy
Published: May 2021

As an investigative study, the potent bacterium Serratia marcescens SB08 was screened from the enteric gut of sulfur butterfly (Kricogonia lyside). Its pigment potential was tested, and the pigment was identified as prodigiosin by structural studies using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectroscopy (GC–MS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). Various conditions, including pH, reaction time, temperature, color intensity, and fastness properties, were studied for pure silk, China silk, and cotton yarns, and the conditions for effective dyeing were optimized. Further, the pigment’s antimicrobial pursuit was tested to counter the common pathogens Bacillus subtilis MTCC2388, Escherichia coli MTCC443, Klebsiella pneumonia MTCC109, Proteus vulgaris MTCC1771, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC1688. The pigment was largely effectual and exhibited utmost zones of inhibition, thus demonstrating the finest antimicrobial effect against the microbes tested. The textile yarn materials soaked with this intrinsic dye pigment also exhibited antimicrobial action.
Phytochemical and Safety Evaluations of Zingiber ottensii Valeton Essential Oil in Zebrafish Embryos and Rats
Authors: Thitinarongwate Wisit , Mektrirat Raktham , Nimlamool Wutigri , Khonsung Parirat , Pikulkaew Surachai , Okonogi Siriporn , Kunanusorn Puongtip
Published: May 2021

Zingiber ottensii Valeton (ZO) exhibits pharmacological activity and has long been used in traditional medicine. However, reports about its safety profiles are limited. The present study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical profile and the toxic effects of ZO essential oil on the development of zebrafish and acute oral toxicity in rats. The essential oil was isolated from ZO rhizomes, and phytochemicals were analyzed using a gas chromatography–mass spectrometer (GC–MS). The embryotoxic and teratogenic effects of ZO essential oil were evaluated in zebrafish embryos and larvae and the acute oral toxicity was determined in rats. GC–MS results showed the essential oil contained zerumbone as a major phytoconstituent (24.73%). The zebrafish embryotoxicity of ZO essential oil appeared to be concentration- and time-dependent manner, with a moderate LC50 (1.003 µg/mL). Teratogenicity in zebrafish embryos also included morphological defects, decreased hatchability, and reduced heart rate. In rats, ZO essential oil (2000 mg/kg, p.o.) resulted in no mortality or significant toxicities. These findings suggest that ZO has embryotoxic and teratogenic effects in zebrafish embryos but does not result in death or acute oral toxicity in rats. Further long-term toxicity studies are needed to confirm the safety of products developed from ZO essential oil.
Suicide and Health Crisis in Extremadura: Impact of Confinement during COVID-19
Authors: Puig-Amores Ismael , Cuadrado-Gordillo Isabel , Martín-Mora Parra Guadalupe Martín-Mora
Published: May 2021

Because of its impact on social well-being, mental health, and financial security, the COVID-19 health crisis may increase the risk of suicide. This study’s objective was to determine what impact the period of confinement might have had on the incidence of deaths by suicide (DBS) in the Extremadura region (Spain). Cases registered in the Institutes of Legal Medicine and Forensic Science (IMLyCFs) from January 2015 to December 2020 were collected. Intra- and interannual comparisons were made of the suicide rates in the periods of confinement (March–June) and postconfinement (July–October) of 2020 with those of the preceding 5 years. After seasonally adjusting the data by means of a time series analysis, rate ratios (RRs) were calculated together with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). There were no significant differences between the suicide rates of 2020 and the mean of the preceding 5 years (RR = 0.94; CI: 0.56–1.55), and neither did any differences seen in the intra-annual analysis from the period of confinement to postconfinement reach statistical significance (RR = 0.74; CI: 0.45–1.20). It is necessary to strengthen vigilance during and after the crisis and ensure that assistance mechanisms are in place to prevent an increase in suicides.
Casimir Interaction between a Plane and a Sphere: Correction to the Proximity-Force Approximation at Intermediate Temperatures
Authors: Henning Vinicius , Spreng Benjamin , Neto Paulo A. Maia , Ingold Gert-Ludwig
Published: May 2021

We consider the Casimir interaction energy between a plane and a sphere of radius R at finite temperature T as a function of the distance of closest approach L. Typical experimental conditions are such that the thermal wavelength λT=ℏc/kBT satisfies the condition L≪λT≪R. We derive the leading correction to the proximity-force approximation valid for such intermediate temperatures by developing the scattering formula in the plane-wave basis. Our analytical result captures the joint effect of the spherical geometry and temperature and is written as a sum of temperature-dependent logarithmic terms. Surprisingly, two of the logarithmic terms arise from the Matsubara zero-frequency contribution.
A New Mass Model for Nuclear Astrophysics: Crossing 200 keV Accuracy
Authors: Shelley Matthew , Pastore Alessandro
Published: May 2021

By using a machine learning algorithm, we present an improved nuclear mass table with a root mean square deviation of less than 200 keV. The model is equipped with statistical error bars in order to compare with available experimental data. We use the resulting model to predict the composition of the outer crust of a neutron star. By means of simple Monte Carlo methods, we propagate the statistical uncertainties of the mass model to the equation of state of the system.
Properties of Fossil Groups of Galaxies
Authors: Aguerri J. Alfonso L. , Zarattini Stefano
Published: May 2021

We review the formation and evolution of fossil groups and clusters from both the theoretical and the observational points of view. In the optical band, these systems are dominated by the light of the central galaxy. They were interpreted as old systems that had enough time to merge all the M* galaxies within the central one. During the last two decades, many observational studies were performed to prove the old and relaxed state of fossil systems. The majority of these studies that spans a wide range of topics including halos global scaling relations, dynamical substructures, stellar populations, and galaxy luminosity functions seem to challenge this scenario. The general picture that can be obtained by reviewing all the observational works is that the fossil state could be transitional. Indeed, the formation of the large magnitude gap observed in fossil systems could be related to internal processes rather than an old formation.
Hepatitis D Virus and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Farci Patrizia , Niro Grazia Anna , Zamboni Fausto , Diaz Giacomo
Published: May 2021

Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a small, defective RNA virus that depends on hepatitis B virus (HBV) for virion assembly and transmission. It replicates within the nucleus of hepatocytes and interacts with several cellular proteins. Chronic hepatitis D is a severe and progressive disease, leading to cirrhosis in up to 80% of cases. A high proportion of patients die of liver decompensation or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the lack of large prospective studies has made it difficult to precisely define the rate of these long-term complications. In particular, the question of whether HDV is an oncogenic virus has been a matter of debate. Studies conducted over the past decade provided evidence that HDV is associated with a significantly higher risk of developing HCC compared to HBV monoinfection. However, the mechanisms whereby HDV promotes liver cancer remain elusive. Recent data have demonstrated that the molecular profile of HCC-HDV is unique and distinct from that of HBV-HCC, with an enrichment of upregulated genes involved in cell-cycle/DNA replication, and DNA damage and repair, which point to genome instability as an important mechanism of HDV hepatocarcinogenesis. These data suggest that HBV and HDV promote carcinogenesis by distinct molecular mechanisms despite the obligatory dependence of HDV on HBV.
Identification of the SHREK Family of Proteins as Broad-Spectrum Host Antiviral Factors
Authors: Dabbagh Deemah , He Sijia , Hetrick Brian , Chilin Linda , Andalibi Ali , Wu Yuntao
Published: May 2021

Mucins and mucin-like molecules are highly glycosylated, high-molecular-weight cell surface proteins that possess a semi-rigid and highly extended extracellular domain. P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1), a mucin-like glycoprotein, has recently been found to restrict HIV-1 infectivity through virion incorporation that sterically hinders virus particle attachment to target cells. Here, we report the identification of a family of antiviral cellular proteins, named the Surface-Hinged, Rigidly-Extended Killer (SHREK) family of virion inactivators (PSGL-1, CD43, TIM-1, CD34, PODXL1, PODXL2, CD164, MUC1, MUC4, and TMEM123) that share similar structural characteristics with PSGL-1. We demonstrate that SHREK proteins block HIV-1 infectivity by inhibiting virus particle attachment to target cells. In addition, we demonstrate that SHREK proteins are broad-spectrum host antiviral factors that block the infection of diverse viruses such as influenza A. Furthermore, we demonstrate that a subset of SHREKs also blocks the infectivity of a hybrid alphavirus-SARS-CoV-2 (Ha-CoV-2) pseudovirus. These results suggest that SHREK proteins may be a part of host innate immunity against enveloped viruses.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of COVID-19 in West Virginia
Authors: Wen Sijin , Prasad Apoorv , Freeland Kerri , Podury Sanjiti , Patel Jenil , Subedi Roshan , Khan Erum , Tandon Medha , Kataria Saurabh , Kimble Wesley , Sriwastava Shitiz
Published: May 2021

This study examines the clinical characteristics, outcomes and types of management in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients, in the hospitals affiliated with West Virginia University. We included patients from West Virginia with SARS-CoV-2 infection between 15 April to 30 December 2020. Descriptive analysis was performed to summarize the characteristics of patients. Regression analyses were performed to assess the association between baseline characteristics and outcomes. Of 1742 patients, the mean age was 47.5 years (±22.7) and 54% of patients were female. Only 459 patients (26.3%) reported at least one baseline symptom, of which shortness of breath was most common. More than half had at least one comorbidity, with hypertension being the most common. There were 131 severe cases (7.5%), and 84 patients (4.8%) died despite treatment. The mean overall length of hospital stay was 2.6 days (±6.9). Age, male sex, and comorbidities were independent predictors of outcomes. In this study of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection from West Virginia, older patients with underlying co-morbidities had poor outcomes, and the in-hospital mortality was similar to the national average.
Phylogenetic Analysis of the 2020 West Nile Virus (WNV) Outbreak in Andalusia (Spain)
Authors: Casimiro-Soriguer Carlos S. , Perez-Florido Javier , Fernandez-Rueda Jose L. , Pedrosa-Corral Irene , Guillot-Sulay Vicente , Lorusso Nicola , Martinez-Gonzalez Luis Javier , Navarro-Marí Jose M. , Dopazo Joaquin , Sanbonmatsu-Gámez Sara
Published: May 2021

During recent decades West Nile Virus (WNV) outbreaks have continuously occurred in the Mediterranean area. In August 2020 a new WNV outbreak affected 71 people with meningoencephalitis in Andalusia and six more cases were detected in Extremadura (south-west of Spain), causing a total of eight deaths. The whole genomes of four viruses were obtained and phylogenetically analyzed in the context of recent outbreaks. The Andalusian viral samples belonged to lineage 1 and were relatively similar to those of previous outbreaks which occurred in the Mediterranean region. Here we present a detailed analysis of the outbreak, including an extensive phylogenetic study. As part on this effort, we implemented a local Nextstrain server, which has become a constituent piece of regional epidemiological surveillance, wherein forthcoming genomes of environmental samples or, eventually, future outbreaks, will be included.
Comparative Evaluation of Growth Performance between Bivalent and Trivalent Vaccines Containing Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2) and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae in a Herd with Subclinical PCV2d Infection and Enzootic Pneumonia
Authors: Um Hyungmin , Yang Siyeon , Oh Taehwan , Park Keehwan , Cho Hyejean , Suh Jeongmin , Min Kyung-Duk , Chae Chanhee
Published: May 2021

The present field trial compared two combined vaccines of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, each administered in herd with subclinical PCV2d infection and enzootic pneumonia. One vaccine was a bivalent containing PCV2a and M. hyopneumoniae and the other was a trivalent vaccine containing PCV2a and 2b (PCV2a/b), and M. hyopneumoniae. The defining difference between these two vaccines was the inclusion or absence of PCV2b antigen. A total of 480, 21day-old pigs were randomly allocated to one of four treatment groups (120 pigs per group, male = 60 and female = 60). These groups included; one-dose trivalent-vaccinated, two-dose trivalent-vaccinated, one-dose bivalent-vaccinated, and unvaccinated. The one- and two-dose trivalent vaccinated pigs exhibited significantly better growth performance when compared with those vaccinated with the bivalent vaccine. The one- and two-dose trivalent vaccinated pigs also reduced the amount of PCV2d loads in the blood and feces, and resulted in a lower M. hyopneumoniae load in the larynx when compared with one-dose bivalent vaccinated pigs. Statistical differences were not observed between the one- and two-dose trivalent-vaccinated groups in terms of growth performance, serology, amount of PCV2d loads in the blood and feces, amount of M. hyopneumoniae load in larynx, and pathological lesions. The results of the present study will provide swine practitioners and producer with comparative clinical field data to select the proper vaccine and vaccination regiment for herds suffering from subclinical PCV2d infection and enzootic pneumonia.
Construction and Characterization of an Aeromonas hydrophila Multi-Gene Deletion Strain and Evaluation of Its Potential as a Live-Attenuated Vaccine in Grass Carp
Authors: Li Jihong , Ma Shilin , Li Zhi , Yu Wei , Zhou Peng , Ye Xiang , Islam Md. Sharifull , Zhang Yong-An , Zhou Yang , Li Jinquan
Published: May 2021

Aeromonas hydrophila is an important pathogen that causes motile Aeromonas septicemia (MAS) in the aquaculture industry. Aerolysin, hemolysin, serine protease and enterotoxins are considered to be the major virulence factors of A. hydrophila. In this study, we constructed a five-gene (aerA, hly, ahp, alt and ast) deletion mutant strain (named Aeromonas hydrophila five-gene deletion strain, AHFGDS) to observe the biological characteristics and detect its potential as a live-attenuated vaccine candidate. AHFGDS displayed highly attenuated and showed increased susceptibility to fish blood and skin mucus killing, while the wild-type strain ZYAH72 was highly virulent. In zebrafish (Danio rerio), AHFGDS showed a 240-fold higher 50% lethal dose (LD50) than that of the wild-type strain. Immunization with AHFGDS by intracelomic injection or immersion routes both provided grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) significant protection against the challenge of the strain ZYAH72 or J-1 and protected the fish organs from serious injury. Further agglutinating antibody titer test supported that AHFGDS could elicit a host-adaptive immune response. These results suggested the potential of AHFGDS to serve as a live-attenuated vaccine to control A. hydrophila infection in aquaculture.
Construction and Immunogenicity of Modified mRNA-Vaccine Variants Encoding Influenza Virus Antigens
Authors: Starostina Ekaterina V. , Sharabrin Sergei V. , Antropov Denis N. , Stepanov Grigory A. , Shevelev Georgiy Yu. , Lemza Anna E. , Rudometov Andrey P. , Borgoyakova Mariya B. , Rudometova Nadezhda B. , Marchenko Vasiliy Yu. , Danilchenko Natalia V. , Chikaev Anton N. , Bazhan Sergei I. , Ilyichev Alexander A. , Karpenko Larisa I.
Published: May 2021

Nucleic acid-based influenza vaccines are a promising platform that have recently and rapidly developed. We previously demonstrated the immunogenicity of DNA vaccines encoding artificial immunogens AgH1, AgH3, and AgM2, which contained conserved fragments of the hemagglutinin stem of two subtypes of influenza A—H1N1 and H3N2—and conserved protein M2. Thus, the aim of this study was to design and characterize modified mRNA obtained using the above plasmid DNA vaccines as a template. To select the most promising protocol for creating highly immunogenic mRNA vaccines, we performed a comparative analysis of mRNA modifications aimed at increasing its translational activity and decreasing toxicity. We used mRNA encoding a green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a model. Eight mRNA-GFP variants with different modifications (M0–M7) were obtained using the classic cap(1), its chemical analog ARCA (anti-reverse cap analog), pseudouridine (Ψ), N6-methyladenosine (m6A), and 5-methylcytosine (m5C) in different ratios. Modifications M2, M6, and M7, which provided the most intensive fluorescence of transfected HEK293FT cells were used for template synthesis when mRNA encoded influenza immunogens AgH1, AgH3, and AgM2. Virus specific antibodies were registered in groups of animals immunized with a mix of mRNAs encoding AgH1, AgH3, and AgM2, which contained either ARCA (with inclusions of 100% Ψ and 20% m6A (M6)) or a classic cap(1) (with 100% substitution of U with Ψ (M7)). M6 modification was the least toxic when compared with other mRNA variants. M6 and M7 RNA modifications can therefore be considered as promising protocols for designing mRNA vaccines.
Rate and Predictors of Hesitancy toward SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine among Type 2 Diabetic Patients: Results from an Italian Survey
Authors: Guaraldi Federica , Montalti Marco , Di Valerio Zeno , Mannucci Edoardo , Nreu Besmir , Monami Matteo , Gori Davide
Published: May 2021

Vaccine hesitancy (VH) has been identified as one of the major health concerns of our time by the World Health Organization. It may prove especially detrimental in the light of the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, as vaccination campaigns still represent the primary strategy against the detrimental consequences of the pandemic. Among patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus (DB), who are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19, VH might represent an even more serious threat. Therefore, our study focuses on identifying potential determinants of VH among patients with type 2 diabetes. Study participants (n = 1176) filled in a two-section online self-administered questionnaire, answering questions regarding demographic and anamnestic data, as well as their intention to accept any vaccination against COVID-19. Some possible reasons underlying VH were investigated as well. An overall hesitancy rate of 14.2% was registered. Data showed how older age, male gender, higher education level, and having been vaccinated for seasonal influenza in 2020–2021 were associated with a significantly higher propensity to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. On the contrary, having experienced adverse effects following past vaccinations was a negative predictor. In addition to confirming an array of predictors of VH, we found a worryingly high prevalence of VH among diabetics, who have been shown to be particularly exposed to severe COVID-19 and death. These findings may be useful in planning targeted action toward acceptance improvement and enhancing the efficacy of vaccination campaigns.
Genetic Variation between Triploid and Diploid Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) Using RAPD Markers
Authors: Normala Jalil , Okomoda Victor Tosin , Mohd Azizul Alim , Nur Asma Ariffin , Abol-Munafi Ambok Bolong , Md Sheriff Shahreza
Published: May 2021

This study was designed to examine the use of RAPD markers in discriminating triploid and diploid African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822). Following a routine technique, triploidy was induced by cold shock and confirm by erythrocyte measurement in C. gariepinus. Thereafter, 80 RAPD markers were screened; out of which, three showed the highest percentage of polymorphism (i.e., OPB 16 = 71.43%; OPC 14 = 61.9%; OPD 12 = 75%). The results obtained showed genotype differences between triploid and diploid without overlapping. However, the development of a Sequence Characterized Amplified Region (SCAR) marker was not achievable because progenies of triploid and diploid C. gariepinus could not be differentiated based on a specific fragment. Consequently, the genetic distance showed high similarities for both treatments and the UPGMA-generated dendrogram could not separate the treatments into two distinct clusters. It was concluded that RAPD makers cannot be used to separate the ploidy status of fishes.
Anaplastic Mammary Carcinoma in Cat
Authors: Soares Maria , Correia Jorge , Nascimento Catarina , Ferreira Fernando
Published: May 2021

Clinical, pathological, and immunohistochemical findings related to a feline mammary tumor with similar features to canine anaplastic mammary carcinoma are herein described for the first time. A female cat was presented for clinical evaluation with gastrointestinal signs, oedema, erythema, and painful lesion in the right inguinal region. Three weeks later, the mass had doubled in size and radiographic revaluation of the thoracic cavity revealed a metastatic pattern. Due to the poor prognosis and decline of the clinical status the owners decided for euthanasia. Post-mortem examination exposed a mammary tumoral mass with subcutaneous oedema, an enlargement of the right inguinal lymph node, and nodules in several organs. Histological analysis confirmed the presence of large pleomorphic epithelial cells, often grouped in small clusters with bizarre nuclei. Immunohistochemical study of the different lesions was performed and both primary tumor and regional metastasis showed tumor cells to be negative estrogen receptor alpha, positive progesterone receptor, positive HER-2, and positive pan-cytokeratin. Given that the clinical history was compatible with an inflammatory mammary carcinoma, the cyclooxygenase-2 expression levels were evaluated and presented a weak immunoreactivity. Regarding the distant metastatic lesions, tumor cells were negative for ER-α and PR and, positive both for HER-2 and pan-cytokeratin.
A Zero-Order Flood Damage Model for Regional-Scale Quick Assessments
Authors: Pogliani Arianna , Bertulessi Manuel , Bignami Daniele F. , Boschini Ilaria , Del Vecchio Michele , Menduni Giovanni , Molinari Daniela , Zambrini Federica
Published: May 2021

Quantitative data on observed flood ground effects are precious information to assess current risk levels and to improve our capability to forecast future flood damage, with the final aim of defining effective prevention policies and checking their success. This paper presents the first collection and analysis of flood damage claims produced in Italy in the past 7 years since a homogeneous national procedure for damage recognition became available. The database currently contains more than 70,000 claims referring to significant events and shows good homogeneity on the intensity of the related phenomena. We then propose an empirical model, based on observed data, to allow for a quick estimation of direct damage to private assets (i.e., residential buildings), based only on the knowledge of the perimeter of the flooded area. Single model calibration was performed at the multi-regional scale, focused on southern Italy. Model validation shows encouraging performances, considering the considerable natural uncertainty that characterizes this type of estimate. The procedure is of great interest when there is a need to evaluate, however roughly, flood damage in the immediacy of the event to assess the extent of the flood effects and to plan support actions for the affected communities.
A Review of Neural Networks for Air Temperature Forecasting
Authors: Tran Trang Thi Kieu , Bateni Sayed M. , Ki Seo Jin , Vosoughifar Hamidreza
Published: May 2021

The accurate forecast of air temperature plays an important role in water resources management, land–atmosphere interaction, and agriculture. However, it is difficult to accurately predict air temperature due to its non-linear and chaotic nature. Several deep learning techniques have been proposed over the last few decades to forecast air temperature. This study provides a comprehensive review of artificial neural network (ANN)-based approaches (such as recurrent neural network (RNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), etc.), which were used to forecast air temperature. The focus is on the works during 2005–2020. The review shows that the neural network models can be employed as promising tools to forecast air temperature. Although the ANN-based approaches have been utilized widely to predict air temperature due to their fast computing speed and ability to deal with complex problems, no consensus yet exists on the best existing method. Additionally, it is found that the ANN methods are mainly viable for short-term air temperature forecasting. Finally, some future directions and recommendations are presented.
Anthropogenic Transformations in the Mouth Area of Tributaries as Factors of Negative Impact on Lake Baikal
Authors: Gagarinova Olga V. , Belozertseva Irina A. , Vorobyeva Irina B. , Vlasova Natalia V. , Emelyanova Natalia V. , Sorokovoi Andrei A.
Published: May 2021

The paper presents the results of complex geoecological, hydrochemical and water-ecological studies of the mouth area of tributaries and shores of Lake Baikal at model sites. The mouth area of tributaries is in dynamic interaction with the receiving water body; chemical and biological accumulative and exchange processes directly affect the state of the Lake Baikal’s water resources. The study assessed the transformation and determined potential resilience of the main components of landscapes to anthropogenic loads within the mouth area. Revealed are the basic parameters of soil and surface water pollution and factors of anthropogenic influence of residential and recreational zones on the natural complexes of the model territories. The research results showed that the pollutant accumulation on the geochemical barriers of soils and alluvial deposits, purification of surface waters in floodplain meadow and wetlands are quite active and generally support the ecological state of the mouth area. However, the low degree of resilience to anthropogenic loads and the current level of degradation of the landscape components of mouth complexes indicate the need to reduce the adverse impact on these territories and on the lake ecosystem as a whole.
The impact of variations in care and complications within a colorectal Enhanced Recovery After Surgery program on length of stay
Authors: Toh James Wei Tatt , Cecire Jack , Hitos Kerry , Shedden Karen , Gavegan Fiona , Pathmanathan Nimalan , El Khoury Toufic , Di Re Angelina , Cocco Annelise , Limmer Alex , Liang Tom , Fok Kar Yin , Rogers James , Solis Edgardo , Ctercteko Grahame
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) has become standard of care in colorectal surgery. However, there is not a universally accepted colorectal ERAS protocol and significant variations in care exist between institutions. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of variations in ERAS interventions and complications on length of stay (LOS).Methods: This study was a single-center review of the first 200 consecutive patients recruited into our prospectively collected ERAS database. The primary outcome of this study was to examine the rate of compliance to ERAS interventions and the impact of these interventions on LOS. The secondary outcome was to assess the impact of complications (anastomotic leak, ileus, and surgical site infections) on LOS. ERAS interventions, rate of adherence, LOS, readmissions, morbidity, and mortality were recorded, and statistical analysis was performed.Results: ERAS variations and complications significantly influenced patient LOS on both univariate and multivariate analysis. ERAS interventions identified as the most important strategies in reducing LOS included laparoscopic surgery, mobilization twice daily postoperative day (POD) 0 to 1, discontinuation of intravenous fluids on POD 0 to 1, upgrading to solid diet by POD 0 to 2, removal of indwelling catheter by POD 0 to 2, avoiding nasogastric tube reinsertion and removing drains early. Both major and minor complications increased LOS. Anastomotic leak and ileus were associated with the greatest increase in LOS.Conclusion: Seven high-yield ERAS interventions reduced LOS. Major and minor complications increased LOS. Reducing variations in care and complications can improve outcomes following colorectal surgery.
O que procura? A digitalização do desejo e as performances de masculinidades no aplicativo GRINDR
Authors: Silva Costa Ramon
Published: May 2021

O artigo aborda o processo de digitalização das relações homossexuais como parte dos efeitos dos avanços tecnológicos da contemporaneidade. Questiona: como os perfis do aplicativo Grindr em Juiz de Fora performam masculinidades? E quais masculinidades são essas? O objetivo é compreender como os usuários realizam performances acerca de suas masculinidades no ambiente digital. A metodologia empregada baseia-se em uma revisão bibliográfica, observação dos perfis e posterior análise de discurso multimodal em torno dos textos e fotos utilizadas por quatro usuários do aplicativo de relacionamento. Conclui-se que, as performances do aplicativo remontam performances existentes no meio sociocultural através dos recursos multimodais oferecidos pelo aplicativo. No entanto, os usuários apresentam uma pluralidade de representações do masculino, sendo um comportamento comum, a busca por parceiros com perfis semelhantes, a centralidade no corpo e sua estética e também a presença de perfis preocupados em manter em sigilo a orientação homossexual. Existem outros perfis que se descrevem e buscam por homens que não respondam ao estereotipo de comportamentos homossexuais e que exprimam uma masculinidade hegemônica, centrada na virilidade e heteronormatividade. Além disso, houve a análise de um perfil subversivo, que em seu texto contraria essas percepções trazidas pelos demais.
Disputas pelo estabelecimento do campo científico catarinense: Instituto Politécnico de Florianópolis à Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina
Authors: Zancan Rodrigues Larissa , Barbosa Ferreira Filho Clayton
Published: May 2021

Neste trabalho, sob o olhar dos estudos da Sociologia e História da Educação, apresentamos e discutimos o contexto de criação da então Universidade de Santa Catarina (USC), ocorrido em meio à políticas desenvolvimentistas do Governo Juscelino Kubitschek. Para tanto, utilizamos como fonte documental o extinto jornal catarinense O Estado e pesquisas bibliográficas referentes ao período 1910-1960. A partir da análise das fontes, foi possível mapear os círculos políticos-econômicos-sociais-intelectuais da Ilha de Santa Catarina, identificando as redes de sociabilidades que vieram a compor os primórdios do campo científico que, hoje, encontra-se estruturado. Para além da conjuntura desenvolvimentista do pós-2ª Guerra, identificamos que a fundação da USC, na década de 1960, teve relação com a articulação de membros da intelectualidade ilhéu, que formavam as elites locais, para fundação do Instituto Politécnico, ainda na Primeira República, e com o contexto de estabelecimento de projetos de modernização e industrialização que buscavam tanto desenvolvimento nacional quanto regional.