bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial Endophytes from Moringa oleifera Leaves as a Promising Source for Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Hashem Amr H. , Al-Askar Abdulaziz A. , Abd Elgawad Hamada , Abdelaziz Amer M.
Published: July 2023

Bacterial endophytes reside within the tissues of living plant species without causing any harm or disease to their hosts. Bacterial endophytes have produced a variety of bioactive compounds that can be used for different biomedical applications. In the current study, two bacterial endophytes were isolated from healthy Moringa oleifera leaves, and identified genetically as Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Alcaligenes faecalis. Phytochemical results illustrated that A. faecalis produced phenolics at 547.2 mg/g, tannins at 156.7 µg/g, flavonoids at 32.8 µg/g, and alkaloids at 111.2 µg/g compared to S. maltophilia, which produced phenolics at 299.5 mg/g, tannins at 78.2 µg/g, flavonoids at 12.4 µg/g, and alkaloids at 29.4 µg/g. GC-MS analysis indicated that A. faecalis extract has 24 bioactive compounds, including 9 major compounds, namely octadecanoic acid, hexadecanoic acid, linoleic acid ethyl ester, octadecenoic acid, methyl ester, methyl stearate, nonacosane, indolizine, palmitoleic acid, and heptacosane. On the other hand, S. maltophilia extract has 11 bioactive compounds, including 8 major compounds, namely oleic acid, octadecanoic acid, hexadecanoic acid, cis-2-phenyl-1, 3-dioxolane-4-methyl, ergotamine, diisooctyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, and pentadecanoic acid. To check the safety of these extracts, the cytotoxicity of Ethyl acetate (EA) extracts of S. maltophilia and A. faecalis were evaluated against the Vero normal cell line, and the results confirmed that these extracts are safe to use. Moreover, results revealed that EA extracts of S. maltophilia and A. faecalis exhibited anticancer activity against the cancerous MCF7 cell line, where IC50 was 202.4 and 119.7 µg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, EA extracts of S. maltophilia had antibacterial and antifungal activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and unicellular fungi. Likewise, the EA extract of A. faecalis exhibited antibacterial and antifungal activity against Gram-positive bacteria, as well as unicellular fungi, but did not show any activity against Gram-negative bacteria. Also, EA extracts of S. maltophilia and A. faecalis exhibited moderate antioxidant activity where IC50 were 146.2 and 147.6 µg/mL, respectively. In conclusion, the two isolated endophytic bacteria S. maltophilia and A. faecalis have promising bioactive compounds that have antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities.
Creative Tea Beverages as a New Tourism Attraction? Exploring Determinants of Tourists’ Repurchase Intention Using Dual Process Theory
Authors: Xia Menglong , Zhang Yang , Gu Rui
Published: July 2023

This paper aimed to explore the potentiality of creative tea beverages as a new tourism attraction and the determinants of tourists’ repurchase intention towards creative tea beverages using the dual process theory. The structural–causal relationship among these constructs was examined using structural equation modeling with the data collected from 478 tourists with previous experience of consuming creative tea beverages. The results support the conclusion that the creativity and quantity of the information about tea beverages spread by electronic word-of-mouth significantly contributes to evoking consumers’ emotions, and the evoked emotions significantly influence consumers’ repurchase intention towards tea beverages. Furthermore, other-oriented face constructs also play a crucial role in determining consumers’ repurchase intention. Theoretical and marketing implications are also discussed in this paper.
Effect of Fine Aggregates and Mineral Fillers on the Permanent Deformation of Hot Mix Asphalt
Authors: Khan Noman , Karim Fazli , Latif Qureshi Qadir Bux Alias Imran , Mufti Sameer Ahmad , Rabbani Muhammad Babar Ali , Khan Muhammad Siyab , Khan Diyar
Published: July 2023

Conventional asphalt pavement is the dominant mode of passenger and freight traffic in Pakistan. As a result, asphalt pavements suffer from various failures, where rutting, corrugation, and fatigue cracking are significant. Fine aggregates and mineral fillers play a pivotal role in providing structural integrity in asphalt pavements when subjected to traffic and the environment. The current study aims to examine the effects of various locally accessible fine aggregate and mineral filler materials on the interlocking properties of asphalt mixtures in relation to internal friction angle, rutting resistance, and controlling environmental pollution as an indirect benefit, thereby reducing wastes. Four distinct asphalt samples were prepared using cinders, stone dust, natural sand, and surkhi as fine aggregates and mineral fillers, as a full replacement, as per ASTM D1559, confirming the Asphalt Institute’s gradation for asphalt wearing course. Optimum binder contents (OBC) of 4.40%, 4.1%, 6.57%, and 6.63% by weight of Marshall specimen were concluded for asphalt samples containing stone dust, natural sand, cinder, and surkhi, respectively. The results revealed that surkhi, natural sand, stone dust, and cinder all showed a diminishing tendency in developing interlocking properties in asphalt mixtures at internal friction angles of 35°, 33.7°, 32°, and 28.4°, respectively. The wheel tracking test results revealed that the asphalt samples made with surkhi as fine aggregates and fillers have the highest rut resistance, whereas samples made with cinders as fine aggregates and fillers have the lowest rut resistance. The direct shear test showed that fine aggregates with a larger angle of internal friction are significantly more stable in terms of rut resistance than fine aggregates with a smaller angle of internal friction. The current research will help to prevent pavement rutting and corrugation by adding surkhi into asphalt pavements, with the reduction in brick kiln waste providing an indirect benefit.
A Daily Air Pollutant Concentration Prediction Framework Combining Successive Variational Mode Decomposition and Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory Network
Authors: Huang Zhong , Li Linna , Ding Guorong
Published: July 2023

Precise and efficient air quality prediction plays a vital role in safeguarding public health and informing policy-making. Fine particulate matter, specifically PM2.5 and PM10, serves as a crucial indicator for assessing and managing air pollution levels. In this paper, a daily pollution concentration prediction model combining successive variational mode decomposition (SVMD) and a bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM) neural network is proposed. Firstly, SVMD is used as an unsupervised feature-learning method to divide data into intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) and to extract frequency features and improve short-term trend prediction. Secondly, the BiLSTM network is introduced for supervised learning to capture small changes in the air pollutant sequence and perform prediction of the decomposed sequence. Furthermore, the Bayesian optimization (BO) algorithm is employed to identify the optimal key parameters of the BiLSTM model. Lastly, the predicted values are reconstructed to generate the final prediction results for the daily PM2.5 and PM10 datasets. The prediction performance of the proposed model is validated using the daily PM2.5 and PM10 datasets collected from the China Environmental Monitoring Center in Tianshui, Gansu, and Wuhan, Hubei. The results show that SVMD can smooth the original series more effectively than other decomposition methods, and that the BO-BiLSTM method is better than other LSTM-based models, thereby proving that the proposed model has excellent feasibility and accuracy.
Unraveling the Interrelationship of Digitalization, Renewable Energy, and Ecological Footprints within the EKC Framework: Empirical Insights from the United States
Authors: Saqib Najia , Duran Ivan A. , Ozturk Ilhan
Published: July 2023

The study seeks to better comprehend the ecological footprint of the United States by analyzing the effects of digital financial inclusion (FinTech) as well as renewable and non-renewable energy usage. Data from 2005 Q1 to 2020 Q4 were analyzed using the quantile autoregressive lag (QARDL) method. It also used Granger causality in quantiles to analyze the correlation between variables and draw conclusions about their relative importance. Quantile-wise, the error correction parameter is statistically significant with the predicted negative sign, as shown by the results obtained using the QARDL method. Indications are mounting that the relationship between these variables and the United States’ ecological footprint is returning to its long-term equilibrium. However, in the long/short-run period, across all quantiles, economic growth and consumption of non-renewable energy have a positive impact on the ecological footprint. The environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) theory was also examined, which holds that an inverted U-shaped link exists between economic growth and environmental degradation. The QARDL study’s findings corroborated the presence of an EKC in the US, lending credence to the theory that while economic growth at first promotes environmental deterioration, further progress ultimately promotes environmental improvement. The study additionally checked the results of the QARDL test for robustness using the ARDL approach. Recommendations for public policy are included in the paper for consideration by legislators and policymakers.
Examining the Effect of Green Logistics and Green Human Resource Management on Sustainable Development Organizations: The Mediating Role of Sustainable Production
Authors: Setyadi Antonius , Akbar Yunata Kandhias , Ariana Sunda , Pawirosumarto Suharno
Published: July 2023

Purpose: This research aimed to examine the effect of green logistics (GL) and green human resource management (GHRM) on the performance of environmentally friendly manufacturing industries oriented toward sustainable development of organizations (SDO) through the role of sustainable production (SP) as a mediating variable. Methodology: A quantitative approach was employed through a standardized questionnaire to obtain data from 110 manufacturing industries in Indonesia that implemented environmentally friendly practices. Advanced statistical techniques, such as structural equation modeling (SEM) and data analysis using Smart PLS (partial least square) version 4 were utilized to analyze the collected data. Findings: The results showed that the model supported the statistical significance of all seven hypotheses and confirmed the direct and mediating effects of GL, GHRM, and SP on SDO. Practical implications: This research added critical insights into the theory and practice of GL and GHRM to realize SDO through the role of SP as a mediator in environmentally friendly manufacturing industries. Originality: This research contributes to the existing literature by adding to the effect of SP mediation on the relationship of GL and GHRM on SDO. There was no previous research that discussed the important role of SP mediation in influencing the relationship between GL and GHRM on SDO.
The Intertwined Renewable Energy–Water–Environment (REWE) Nexus Challenges and Opportunities: A Case Study of California
Authors: Jafarinejad Shahryar , Hernandez Rebecca R. , Bigham Sajjad , Beckingham Bryan S.
Published: July 2023

In our built environment, societal production of energy and clean water is inextricably linked to the natural resources from which they are derived. Acknowledgement and consideration of the coupling of energy, water, and the environment (the energy–water–environment nexus) will be critical to a sustainable future. This is particularly true as we transition away from historical energy sources (e.g., coal, petroleum, natural gas) and into the widespread adaptation of renewable energy (RE) sources (e.g., solar, wind, geothermal, hydro, bioenergy) as a strategy to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and consequently slow global climate change. This transition is fraught with both challenges and opportunities at the county, state, national, and international levels, as addressing future societal needs with respect to energy and water, and the environment requires recognition of their interdependence and development of new technologies and societal practices. In this study, the focus is on the RE–water–environment (REWE) nexus. In California, the REWE nexus is becoming increasingly important in achieving 100% clean electricity from eligible RE and zero-carbon resources by 2045 and in the face of climate change and population and economic growth. In this context, California’s RE deployment and renewable electrical generation, its RE legislative information, REWE nexus, and intertwined REWE nexus challenges and opportunities in California (e.g., administrative–legal, technology development, digitalization, and end-of-life RE waste) are comprehensively discussed to identify the knowledge gaps in this nexus and solutions.
Social Transformation in Peri-Urban Communities toward Food Sustainability and Achievement of SDGs in the Era of Disruption
Authors: Sumardjo Sumardjo , Firmansyah Adi , Dharmawan Leonard
Published: July 2023

In the era of disruption, to achieve both food sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Indonesia must face changes in the values, attitudes, and behavior of the community, and adapt to environmental and technological changes. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence social transformation in peri-urban communities, and their impact on food sustainability and the achievement of SDGs. The research method is a qualitative approach, triangulated by conducting in-depth interviews, field observations, and focus group discussions (FGD) in two districts, the Majalengka and Karawang Regency, West Java Province. The results showed that factors influencing social transformation in peri-urban communities include strengthening public awareness of the importance of food sustainability, access to information and technology, collaborative synergy of government, companies, academics, and community participation in decision-making on empowerment programs. This social transformation leads to increased food production and poverty reduction. Private facilitators through CSR programs play a role in achieving both food sustainability and several SDG indicators related to poverty. The occurrence of collaborative synergy between community participation, extension workers, village government, media utilization, academics, and companies contributes significantly to transforming the values, attitudes, and behavior of people managing community resources.
Revealing the Barriers of Blockchain Technology for Supply Chain Transparency and Sustainability in the Construction Industry: An Application of Pythagorean FAHP Methods
Authors: Singh Atul Kumar , Kumar V. R. Prasath , Irfan Muhammad , Mohandes Saeed Reza , Awan Usama
Published: July 2023

Blockchain technology has emerged as a promising solution to enhance supply chain transparency and sustainability in the construction industry. However, the widespread adoption of blockchain faces several barriers that need to be identified and understood. The construction industry faces significant challenges regarding supply chain transparency and sustainability. Current practices lack visibility, leading to difficulties in tracing material origins, tracking movement, and ensuring compliance. To fill this gap, this study employed a three-phase approach. In the first phase, a comprehensive literature review identified 37 potential barriers. Subsequently, expert discussions were held to refine the list, ultimately selecting 15 barriers of utmost importance. In the second phase, data were collected from 17 experts representing academia and industry. Finally, in the last phase, the collected data were analyzed using the Pythagorean fuzzy analytical hierarchical process (AHP) methodology. The findings revealed that the “transparency range” category was the most critical barrier, closely followed by “inadequate access to institutional finance”. Surprisingly, the study identified the “security environment” as the most significant barrier. These results offer construction companies, policymakers, and other industry stakeholders a comprehensive understanding of blockchain adoption’s challenges. With this knowledge, stakeholders can design effective strategies and policies to address these barriers. Moreover, the research highlights the importance of considering uncertainty in decision making when assessing technology adoption, making the findings applicable beyond the construction industry.
Replacing Mineral Fertilizer with Nitrified Human Urine in Hydroponic Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) Production
Authors: Mauerer Mareike , Rocksch Thorsten , Dannehl Dennis , Schuch Ingo , Mewis Inga , Förster Nadja , Ulrichs Christian , Schmidt Uwe
Published: July 2023

Source-separated, nitrified, and decontaminated human urine constitutes a promising plant fertilizer that contains a large share of the nitrogen and phosphorus in household wastewater, and other plant nutrients. However, human urine contains high levels of sodium and chloride that can affect salt-sensitive greenhouse crops. Replacing mineral fertilizer with nitrified urine fertilizer could reduce the environmental impact of lettuce production in hydroponic systems, if marketable yield, appearance, and produce quality are not affected. In the present study, a treatment combination of a nitrified urine fertilizer and mineral fertilizers was used to grow lettuce through the nutrient film technique. This was compared to a conventionally fertilized control treatment. No significant differences were observed regarding yield, phenotype, and contents of nitrate, heavy metals, phenolic acids, and chlorophyll in leaf tissue. Calcium content was significantly reduced and sodium was elevated in nitrified urine treatment. For the elements nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, a saving of 48%, 13%, and 15% was calculated, respectively. The calculated carbon footprint from the total fertilizer production was reduced by 20.52%, caused by the nitrified urine treatment. Based on these results, a nutrient solution composed of nitrified urine fertilizer combined with mineral fertilizer may be a promising alternative for growers to produce lettuce with a reduced environmental impact without loss of plant quantity and quality.
Interdisciplinary Exploration between Organizational Culture and Sustainable Development Management Applied to the Romanian Higher Education Environment
Authors: Halmaghi Elisabeta-Emilia , Ranf Diana-Elena , Badea Dorel
Published: July 2023

The present scientific approach is based on the premise that an interdisciplinary approach in research allows us to solve more complex problems and to create a bridge between fields of knowledge in order to reach relevant solutions. In this context, as a general line of achievement, the proposed study aims to identify a management solution for implementing organizational change. The conceptual paradigm related to the link between sustainable development management and organizational culture is also incorporated, with a focus on the dimensions of sustainable development. The authors’ collective understanding of organizational culture, part of the organizational management system, and sustainable development management, as a cross-cutting approach, is the object of a study applied to the Romanian higher education environment, considered a catalyst for change with an impact on society as a whole. The specific objective of the study is to analyse the relationships between organizational culture and sustainable development management, aiding some stakeholders to identify solutions for increasing performance in the implementation of sustainable development management in Romanian universities. It is intended to contribute to internalizing the idea of a higher value of organizational culture as an internal barometer of an organization, an imprint of values, beliefs, rules and norms, which is why the study also takes into account the investigation of the role of culture in the diagnosis of organizational sustainability, and finally, the contribution of the culture vector to the implementation of changes is highlighted. Achieving goals in the field of sustainable development involves changing mindsets that shape human behaviour. The analysis of the university environment aimed precisely at investigating its relationship with ecological and sustainability issues and identifying ways to improve these practices. In order to achieve these research goals, a methodological framework centred on two pillars was used: a brief bibliometric research accompanied by a critical analysis of the literature and questionnaire-based research. The first pillar resolves the conceptual issues that underpin the study and the second provides an insight into the main characteristics of the organizational culture that can influence sustainable development in Romanian universities.
Driving Forces and Socio-Economic Impacts of Low-Flow Events in Central Europe: A Literature Review Using DPSIR Criteria
Authors: Folkens Lukas , Bachmann Daniel , Schneider Petra
Published: July 2023

Recent drought events in Europe have highlighted the impact of hydrological drought and low-flow events on society, ecosystems, and the economy. While there are numerous publications about flood risk management and the socio-economic consequences of floods, these have hardly been systematically dealt with in the scientific literature regarding low flows. This paper fills this gap by summarizing the current state of research in the form of a systematic literature review combining the criteria of the drivers–pressures–state–impacts–responses (DPSIR) framework with the propositional inventory method. In particular, the driving forces of low-flow events, their pressures, and the impacts on different economic sectors such as navigation, fisheries, industry, agriculture, forestry, energy, and tourism and recreation as well as resulting competitive usage claims for water and responses are presented and validated through expert interviews. In doing so, the study examines the causal chain of low-flow events and serves as a fundamental base for the future development of a damage cost database for low-flow events by preparing literature data on the socio-economic consequences of low-flow events for parameterization.
Integral Recovery of Almond Bagasse through Dehydration: Physico-Chemical and Technological Properties and Hot Air-Drying Modelling
Authors: Duarte Stevens , Betoret Ester , Barrera Cristina , Seguí Lucía , Betoret Noelia
Published: July 2023

Recovering waste from industrial food processes and developing new healthy foods as plant protein sources has been a major focus of scientific research and industrial innovation in food. Thus, the consumption of plant-based beverages from soy, oat, or almond has been promoted. In the case of almonds, the resulting solid bagasse has an interesting nutritional profile and its transformation into a powdered product could be a valuable option for the food industry. The main objective of this work was to determine the effect of hot air drying at 60 and 70 °C and freeze-drying on the physicochemical, water interaction, emulsifying and antioxidant properties of powdered almond bagasse. Furthermore, hot air-drying curves have been modelled and isotherms at 20 °C have been performed. The proximate composition of the powder revealed a protein content of 15% and a fat content of 25%, which makes it a remarkably different powder from those obtained from other vegetable residues such as fruits and vegetables. This composition was decisive in the effect of the drying method and drying temperature, and no significant differences were observed on the physico-chemical or antioxidant properties regardless of the drying method used. However, freeze-drying resulted in a powder with a more homogeneous particle size distribution and better oil-interaction properties, especially with higher emulsifying activity and stability.
Removal of Antibiotics Using an Algae-Algae Consortium (Chlorella protothecoides and Chlorella vulgaris)
Authors: Ndlela Luyanda L. , Schroeder Peter , Genthe Bettina , Cruzeiro Catarina
Published: July 2023

The intensive use of antibiotics (for human, veterinary, and agricultural purposes) has steadily increased over the last 30 years. Large amounts of antibiotic residues are released into aquatic systems, mostly due to inefficient wastewater treatment. Conventional wastewater treatments are not designed to remove emerging contaminants (such as antibiotics) from wastewater. Therefore, algae treatment (phycoremediation) has emerged as a promising choice for cost-effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable wastewater treatment. For this reason, we investigated the removal performance of a well-established algal consortia (Chlorella protothecoides and Chlorella vulgaris) used in passive wastewater treatment ponds (Mosselbay, South Africa). Five antibiotics (sulfamethoxazole, amoxicillin, trimethoprim, ofloxacin, and clarithromycin) were selected for their ubiquity and/or low removal efficiency in conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). For each antibiotic, two concentrations were used: one environmentally relevant (10 ppb) and another 10 times higher (100 ppb), tested in triplicate and collected at two-time points (7 and 10 days). The algae remained viable over the exposure period (which is similar to the retention time within maturation ponds) and exhibited the capacity to remove sulfamethoxazole (77.3% ± 3.0 and 46.5% ± 5.3) and ofloxacin (43.5% ± 18.9 and 55.1% ± 12.0) from samples spiked with 10 and 100 ppb, respectively. This study demonstrates the potential and innovation of algal remediation for contaminants in a developing country context, where minimal infrastructure is available.
No Hepatitis Delta Virus Seropositivity among Blood Donors with Overt and Occult Hepatitis B Infection in Dalian, Liaoning Province, China
Authors: Deng Xuelian , Liu Dan , Delcourt Maelenn Pailine , Gao Huihui , Zhou Lu , Candotti Daniel
Published: July 2023

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is an obligate satellite of hepatitis B virus (HBV). Dual HDV/HBV infection is associated with down-regulated HBV replication and fast progression to severe liver disease. Although HDV is transmissible through exposure to infected blood, data about HDV infection in blood donors remain scarce. Between 2011 and 2021, 869,633 donations were collected from prequalified donors in Dalian, China. In total, 1060 (0.12%) were confirmed HBsAg and/or HBV DNA-reactive. Subsequently, anti-HDV IgG was tested in 2175 donations, including 65 that tested HBsAg+ pre donation, 1017 confirmed HBV-positive (507 HBsAg+/HBV DNA+, 33 HBsAg+/DNA−, 477 HBsAg-/DNA+ (451 occult (OBI) and 26 acute infections)), 327 viral DNA non-repeated-reactive, 397 anti-HBc-only, and 369 anti-HBs-only. Two (0.09%) samples tested anti-HDV IgG weakly reactive but were unconfirmed by IgM and IgG repeat testing with alternative assays, suggesting an initial false reactivity. In addition, HDV testing in a subgroup of confirmed OBI donors, comprising 451 donors from Dalian and 126 archived samples of OBI donors from around the world, showed only one non-Chinese donor to be repeatedly anti-HDV-reactive, suggesting that HDV/HBV coinfection does not play a significant role in the genesis of OBI. The overall data suggested an extremely low prevalence of HDV infection among blood donors in Liaoning province, Northeast China.
Effect of Human Adenovirus 36 on Response to Metformin Monotherapy in Obese Mexican Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tapia-Rivera José Carlos , Mendoza-Jaramillo Héctor Eduardo , González-Villaseñor Christian Octavio , Ramirez-Flores Mario , Aguilar-Velazquez José Alonso , López-Quintero Andres , Pérez-Guerrero Edsaúl Emilio , Vargas-Rodriguez María de los Ángeles , Gutiérrez-Hurtado Itzae Adonai , Martínez-López Erika
Published: July 2023

Human adenovirus 36 (HAdV-36) has been associated with obesity and changes in glucose and lipid metabolism. The virus has been reported to increase insulin sensitivity and paradoxically promote weight gain. Because of its effects on metabolism, infection with the virus could alter the response to several drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes (DM2), such as metformin. The aim of this study was to test whether HAdV-36 affects the response to metformin in a group of obese patients with DM2. Methods: In a prospective cohort study, 103 obese patients with newly diagnosed DM2 were divided into two groups based on their HAdV-36 seropositivity (+HAdV-36 and −HAdV-36). Weight, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, body mass index, body fat percentage, and waist and hip circumference were measured and compared in both groups at baseline and after 45 days of metformin treatment. Results: Only glucose was significantly lower in the +HAdV-36 group at baseline, while all other variables were similar between the two study groups. After 45 days of follow-up, it was observed that the effect of metformin did not differ between the groups, but the variables improved significantly after treatment. Conclusions: In this study, we did not find that HAdV-36 had an effect on the response to metformin in obese patients with DM2.
Assessment of Enterovirus Excretion and Identification of VDPVs in Patients with Primary Immunodeficiency in India: Outcome of ICMR–WHO Collaborative Study Phase-I
Authors: Mohanty Madhu Chhanda , Desai Mukesh , Mohammad Ahmad , Aggarwal Amita , Govindaraj Geeta , Bhattad Sagar , Lashkari Harsha Prasada , Rajasekhar Liza , Verma Harish , Kumar Arun , Sawant Unnati , Varose Swapnil Yashwant , Taur Prasad , Yadav Reetika Malik , Tatkare Manogat , Fernandes Mevis , Bargir Umair , Majumdar Sanjukta , Edavazhippurath Athulya , Rangarajan Jyoti , Manthri Ramesh , Madkaikar Manisha Ranjan
Published: July 2023

The emergence of vaccine-derived polioviruses (VDPVs) in patients with Primary Immunodeficiency (PID) is a threat to the polio-eradication program. In a first of its kind pilot study for successful screening and identification of VDPV excretion among patients with PID in India, enteroviruses were assessed in stool specimens of 154 PID patients across India in a period of two years. A total of 21.42% of patients were tested positive for enteroviruses, 2.59% tested positive for polioviruses (PV), whereas 18.83% of patients were positive for non-polio enteroviruses (NPEV). A male child of 3 years and 6 months of age diagnosed with Hyper IgM syndrome was detected positive for type1 VDPV (iVDPV1) with 1.6% nucleotide divergence from the parent Sabin strain. E21 (19.4%), E14 (9%), E11 (9%), E16 (7.5%), and CVA2 (7.5%) were the five most frequently observed NPEV types in PID patients. Patients with combined immunodeficiency were at a higher risk for enterovirus infection as compared to antibody deficiency. The high susceptibility of PID patients to enterovirus infection emphasizes the need for enhanced surveillance of these patients until the use of OPV is stopped. The expansion of PID surveillance and integration with a national program will facilitate early detection and follow-up of iVDPV excretion to mitigate the risk for iVDPV spread.
Cellular and Humoral Immune Responses after Breakthrough Infection in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Toda Masataro , Yoshifuji Ayumi , Nakayama Tetsuo , Mise-Omata Setsuko , Oyama Emi , Uwamino Yoshifumi , Namkoong Ho , Komatsu Motoaki , Yoshimura Akihiko , Hasegawa Naoki , Kikuchi Kan , Ryuzaki Munekazu
Published: July 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) following primary immunization (breakthrough infection) has been reported in hemodialysis patients; however, their post-infection immune status remains unclear. We evaluated the humoral and cellular immunity of hemodialysis patients after breakthrough infection. Hemodialysis patients who had received primary immunization against COVID-19 at least six months prior to the study but developed mild/moderate COVID-19 before a booster dose (breakthrough infection group) and hemodialysis patients who were not infected with COVID-19 but received a booster dose (booster immunization group) were recruited. In both groups, SARS-CoV-2 antigen-specific cytokines and IgG levels were measured three weeks after infection or three weeks after receiving a booster dose. Memory T and B cells were also counted in the breakthrough infection group using flow cytometry three weeks after infection. Significantly higher SARS-CoV-2 antigen-specific IgG, IFN-γ, IL-5, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels occurred in the breakthrough infection group compared to the booster immunization group (p = 0.013, 0.039, 0.024, 0.017, and 0.039, respectively). The SARS-CoV-2 antigen-specific IgG and cytokine levels were not significantly different between the two groups. The breakthrough infection group had significantly higher percentages of central and effector memory T cells and regulatory T cells than the comparison group (p = 0.008, 0.031, and 0.026, respectively). Breakthrough infections may induce stronger cellular and humoral immune responses than booster immunizations in hemodialysis patients.
The Use of Kaolin as a Prophylactic Treatment to Prevent Columnaris Disease (Flavobacterium covae) in Commercial Baitfish and Sportfish Species
Authors: Kelly Anita M. , Renukdas Nilima , Barnett Louis Matthew , Beck Benjamin H. , Abdelrahman Hisham A. , Roy Luke A.
Published: July 2023

Aquaculture farms in Arkansas, USA routinely battle columnaris disease caused by Flavobacterium covae. Columnaris is prevalent during stressful events such as feed training and when fish are stocked at high densities in holding vats before sale. Kaolin clay was effective in laboratory trials as a treatment for columnaris in catfish. As a result, fish farmers are interested in applying kaolin products but were hesitant as they feared that the high doses of kaolin clay in vats might negatively affect the gills and overall health of fish. Therefore, we evaluated potential clay concentrations that might be used to prophylactically treat fish in vats. The effects of low to excessively high doses (0, 1, 2, 4, or 8 g/L) of kaolin clay (AkuaProTM, Imerys, GA, USA) were evaluated using a 72 h bioassay conducted in static tanks using Micropterus salmoides, Pomoxis nigromaculatus, Lepomis macrochirus, Ictalurus punctatus, Notemigonus crysoleucas, and Pimephales promelas. Results of these trials revealed a 100% survival rate across all six fish species exposed to kaolin clay at concentrations of up to 8 g/L for 48 h (followed by a 24 h recovery period in clean water) with no adverse effects to eyes, skin, gastrointestinal tract, or liver histology noted at any treatment. In addition, Micropterus salmoides analyzed for heavy metals due to exposure to the clay indicated that concentrations did not differ from control fish.
Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in Horses: A Narrative Review
Authors: Li Lynna , Maboni Grazieli , Lack Amy , Gomez Diego E.
Published: July 2023

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections are increasing in human and veterinary medicine. Although horses were initially thought to be resistant to NTM infection, reports of horses suffering from gastrointestinal, respiratory, and reproductive diseases associated with NTM have increased in the last few decades. The aim of this literature review is to summarize the mycobacteria species found in horses, describe clinical manifestations, diagnostic and treatment approaches, and public health concerns of NTM infection in horses. Clinical manifestations of NTM in horses include pulmonary disease, lymphadenitis, soft tissue, bone infections, and disseminated disease. NTM are also linked to granulomatous enteritis, placentitis, and abortions. Currently, diagnostic methods for NTM are limited and include acid-fast microscopy, bacterial cultures, species-specific PCR assays, and gene sequencing. In humans, NTM treatment guidelines are available, but their application appears inadequate and inconsistent. In horses, treatment guidelines for NTM infections are not available. NTM are a serious public health threat as 70% of people with untreated acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) have a chronic pulmonary disease caused by NTM. Thus, it is essential that we gain a better understanding of NTM infections in horses and their zoonotic potential.
Potential of Macrophytes for Wastewater Remediation with Constructed Floating Wetlands in Cold Climates
Authors: Wilkinson Sarah R. , Naeth M. Anne , Dhar Amalesh
Published: July 2023

Nature-based, low technology wastewater treatment systems can benefit small and remote communities. Adding a constructed floating wetland (CFW) to waste stabilization ponds can enhance treatment efficacy at low cost, depending on appropriate macrophytes. In cold climates, harsh growing conditions may limit CFW success, requiring research under-ambient field conditions. Seven native macrophytes were assessed for the growth, biomass production, and root and shoot uptake of potential contaminants of concern from municipal wastewater in a facultative stabilization pond in Alberta, Canada. All macrophytes established. Scirpus microcarpus had high nitrogen and phosphorus in roots and shoots and phytoextraction potential. Metal and trace elements were highest in Glyceria grandis, Beckmannia syzigachne, and Scirpus microcarpus, mostly greater in roots than shoots, indicating phytostabilization. Tissue contaminant concentrations did not always indicate high contaminant accumulation in the CFW. Total uptake per unit area was greatest for Glyceria grandis, although chromium and molybdenum were greatest in Beckmannia syzigachne and Carex aquatilis, respectively. Beckmannia syzigachne and Scirpus microcarpus have potential for phytoremediation if biomass per unit area is increased. Species variability is high for contaminant accumulation and biomass; in unpredictable climates and wastewaters with suites of contaminants, different macrophytes for wetland water treatment systems are recommended.
Sustainability of High-Density Olive Orchards: Hints for Irrigation Management and Agroecological Approaches
Authors: Sobreiro Justino , Patanita Maria Isabel , Patanita Manuel , Tomaz Alexandra
Published: July 2023

The production of olive oil in Portugal and other countries of the Mediterranean region has greatly increased in recent years. Intensification efforts have focused on the growth of the planted area, but also on the increase of the orchards density and the implementation of irrigation systems. Concerns about possible negative impacts of modern olive orchard production have arisen in the last years, questioning the trade-offs between the production benefits and the environmental costs. Therefore, it is of great importance to review the research progress made regarding agronomic options that preserve ecosystem services in high-density irrigated olive orchards. In this literature review, a keywords-based search of academic databases was performed using, as primary keywords, irrigated olive orchards, high density/intensive/hedgerow olive orchards/groves, irrigation strategies, and soil management. Aside from 42 general databases, disseminated research, and concept-framing publications, 112 specific studies were retrieved. The olive orchards were classified as either traditional (TD) (50–200 trees ha−1), medium-density (MD) (201–400 trees ha−1), high-density (HD) (401–1500 trees ha−1), or super-high-density (SHD) orchards (1501–2500 trees ha−1). For olive crops, the ETc ranged from 0.65 to 0.70, and could fall as low as 0.45 in the summer without a significant decrease in oil productivity. Several studies have reported that intermediate irrigation levels linked with the adoption of deficit irrigation strategies, like regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) or partial rootzone drying (PRD), can be effective options. With irrigation, it is possible to implement agroecosystems with cover crops, non-tillage, and recycling of pruning residues. These practices reduce the soil erosion and nutrient leaching and improve the soil organic carbon by 2 to 3 t C ha−1 year−1. In this situation, in general, the biodiversity of plants and animals also increases. We expect that this work will provide a reference for research works and resource planning focused on the improvement of the productive and environmental performance of dense irrigated olive orchards, thereby contributing to the overall enhancement of the sustainability of these expanding agroecosystems.
Causas, efectos y prevención del bullying escolar en niños y adolescentes
Authors: Carhuas Flores Gina Lizbeth , Cáceres Zevallos Veronika María , Salvatierra Melgar Ángel
Published: July 2023

El bullying es frecuente entre estudiantes; permanece vigente en las instituciones educativas y es de las peores experiencias a las que se pueden enfrentar. Por ello, el objetivo de este estudio es analizar los tipos, causas, efectos y métodos de prevención del bullying en niños y adolescentes, Se trabajó bajo el paradigma cualitativo, método fenomenológico y técnica de revisión documental. En los resultados se exponen los tipos de bullying, sus causas, efectos y métodos prevención de acuerdo a los autores seleccionados. Se concluye que las víctimas y victimarios tienen antecedentes familiares que están asociados a factores como padres autoritarios, sobreprotectores, presencia de violencia doméstica y/o falta de comunicación. Asimismo, se evidenció que es una problemática difícil de detectar, sus víctimas tienden al fracaso escolar y al desarrollo de trastornos de salud y los victimarios suelen incurrir en problema legales, por lo que se requieren de políticas que intervengan en su prevención.
PERPUSTAKAAN DIGITAL SEBAGAI MEDIA MENGGALANG MINAT BERKUNJUNG GENERASI MUDA
Authors: Hidayat Muhammad Yogi , Dewiyanti Dhini
Published: July 2023

Perpustakaan saat ini harus tampil secara atraktif guna menjaring minat pengunjung. Keberadaan dan kemudahan pencarian e-book melalui teknologi, membuat perpustakaan konvensional mengalami penurunan minat jumlah pengunjung. Perpustakaan digital menjadi solusi untuk prencanaan perpustakaan saat ini. Permasalahan muncul karena keterbatasan model perpustakaan digital di Indonesia yang memenuhi kaidah estetika yang menarik, sekaligus memiliki konsep digital yang sudah baik, masih kurang secara kuantitatif maupun kualitatif. Paper ini merupakan proses melakukan studi pustaka untuk mencari model perpustakaan digital yang dapat menggalang minat baca. Sesuai dengan tujuan penulisan, metode pencarian dilakukan melalui kajian pustaka yang kemudian dianalisis guna mendapatkan kesimpulan mengenai: 1) Fasilitas pada perpustakaan digital; 2) Kriteria ruang pada perpustakaan digital; 3) Wujud bangunan perpustakaan secara arsitektural
PENERAPAN ATAP JULANG NGAPAK PADA RUMAH PERLINDUNGAN ANAK
Authors: Rohman Encep Saeful , Martana Salmon Priaji
Published: July 2023

Cirebon memiliki tingkat penduduk yang cukup tinggi didaerah jawa barat dan memiliki kebudayaan campuran yaitu sunda dan jawa karena letak dari daerahnya yang berdekatan dengan daerah tersebut. Tetapi dari potensi tersebut Cirebon belum memiliki rumah perlindungan bagi anak yang memiliki permasalahan sosial dengan menerapkan gaya bangunan tradisional dan sesuai dengan penetapan standar yang berlaku. Maka dari itu pembuatan rumah perlindungan anak dengan gaya tradisional salah satunya menerapkan pada atap berjenis jualng ngapak. Data yang dikumpulkan dengan survei dan pengumpulan data kuantitatif untuk selanjutnya di analisis dari semua data yang terkumpul. Maka dari hasil penelitian ini penerapan atap julang ngapak dapat melestarikan gaya bangunan tradisional walaupun dengan gaya bangunan modern selain itu dapat mengimplementasikan sebagai pelindung bagi pengguna yang ada di dalam bangunan tersebut.
PENERAPAN RUANG KOMUNAL DENGAN TEMA NGARIUNG PADA LINGKUNGAN SMK SENI DI SUBANG
Authors: Abdurahman Abdurahman , Martana Salmon Priaji
Published: July 2023

Pendidikan merupakan wadah yang penting untuk meningkatkan kualitas etika, moral, akhlak dan pengetahuan manusia. Sekolah Menengah Kejuruan Kesenian merupakan satuan pendidikan formal jenjang menengah sebagai lanjutan dari Sekolah Menengah Pertama atau sederajat, pada tingkatan ini peserta didik dipersiapkan untuk menghadapi dunia luar dengan bidang tertentu Undang-undang, (2003) UUD Republik Indonesia Nomor 20 tahun 2003 Tentang Sistem Pendidikan Nasional. Permasalahan pendidikan yang ada rata-rata sistem pengajaran para guru masih menggunakan metode konvensional yang mana sistem tersebut membuat siswa sulit mengikuti dan memahami pelajaran di sekolah. Sehingga tujuan penulisan yaitu mengatasi sistem metode pengajaran konvesional dengan desain ruang komunal sebagai sarana pembelajaran di luar kelas yang dapat membuat siswa terasa nyaman dan senang belajar. Adapun hasil dari perancangan tentang penerapan ruang komunal pada lingkungan sekolah di implementasikan pada konsep nodes, sirkulasi trotoar, massa bangunan, parkir, tata letak bangunan, dan sirkulasi lingkungan sekolah. Ruang-ruang komunal yang banyak pada lingkungan sekolah sangat bermanfaat untuk meningkatkan minat siswa karena dengan adanya ruang komunal dan sistem pengajaran di luar kelas akan dapat meningkatkan minat belajar siswa.
KONSEP OFFROAD PADA THEME PARK DI DAERAH URBAN STUDI KASUS: LAND ROVER EXPERIENCE CENTER
Authors: Nurzaman Muhammad , Martana Salmon Priaji
Published: July 2023

Wisata Offroad adalah sebuah kegiatan wisata yang biasanya menggunakan kendaraan jenis penggerak roda empat dengan spesifikasi tertentu. Banyak komunitas dan juga masyarakat yang gemar melakukan hobi offroading ini, tetapi kegiatan offroad ini juga tidak terlepas dari akibat yang ditimbulkan oleh kegiatan ini mulai dari pencemaran tanah,air,udara,dan juga suara. Land Rover Experience Center merupakan sebuah tempat dimana komunitas dan masyarakat bisa mendapatkan pengetahuan dan edukasi mengenai kendaraan jenis off-road khususnya merek Land Rover dan juga dapat ikut serta dalam pengalaman ber-Land Rover dengan fasilitas yang lengkap yang dapat menunjang dan mewadahi segala aktifitas yang berhubungan dengan merek Land Rover. Selain itu disediakan juga fasilitas lintasan offroad di kawasan tersebut sehingga diharapkan dapat menekan pencemaran yang ditimbulkan oleh kegiatan offroad liar yang dapat merusak ekosistem hutan.
Rural Health Care Information Access and the Use of the Internet: Opportunity for University Extension
Authors: Dias Biswa , Leatherman John , Bressers Bonnie
Published: July 2023

The Internet has potential for improving health information delivery and strengthening connections between rural populations and local health service providers. An exploratory case study six rural health care markets in Kansas showed that about 70% of adults use the Internet, with substantial use for accessing health information. While there are statistical differences for general Internet use based on socio-economic characteristics, these "digital divides" are not so apparent in relation to Internet usage for health-related information. The study opens opportunities for Extension to include Internet usage as an added dimension to programs to aid in community and economic development.
Extension Professionals and Sustainability Practices: Are We Walking Our Talk?
Authors: Rashash Diana , Elliot Catherine , Hector Ramona
Published: July 2023

Today more than ever, Extension is scrutinized and evaluated for its value and relevance to the public. This report summarizes a 2010 online survey conducted by members of the National Network for Sustainable Living Education (NNSLE) to assess the sustainability mindset of Extension employees. It assessed employee behaviors, motivations, and impediments—at work and at home—in five categories. Most notably, Extension employees are avid resource conservation practitioners who are strongly influenced by saving time and money. The findings provide a platform for sustainability education in Extension offices to promote transformative institutional and community change.