bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Threshold Effect of Executive Compensation on Corporate Environmental Responsibility: Based on the Moderating Effect of Industry Competition
Authors: Zhang Yang , Zhang Xinxin
Published: July 2022

In recent years, the relationship between the executive characteristics and corporate environmental responsibility has attracted much attention from academia, especially the relationship between executive compensation and corporate environmental responsibility. Based on the panel data of China’s Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed manufacturing companies from 2006 to 2018, this paper empirically tests the threshold effect of executive compensation on corporate environmental responsibility and explores this relationship under the moderation of industry competition. The results show the following: (1) The impact of executive compensation on corporate environmental responsibility represents a U-shaped threshold effect; that is, the promotion of corporate environmental responsibility by executive compensation only appears after reaching a certain boundary. (2) Industry competition has a positive moderating effect, which will shift the inflection point of the U-shaped curve between executive compensation and corporate environmental responsibility to the left. (3) Executive compensation of companies of different attributes, sizes, and regions has an impact on corporate environment responsibility, and industry competition has a varying impact on executive compensation and corporate environmental responsibility. This paper is based on the special situation of China and can be used for reference to other developing countries. This study not only expands the research perspective of corporate environmental responsibility and further reveals and verifies the manager effect in the field of environmental performance, but also has practical significance to further give full play to the incentive effect of compensation on corporate non-financial performance.
Recipes for Resilience: Engaging Caribbean Youth in Climate Action and Food Heritage through Stories and Song
Authors: Plummer Nicole , Wilson Marisa , Yaneva-Toraman Inna , McKenzie Charmaine , Mitchell Sylvia , Northover Patricia , Crowley Kate , Edwards Thera , Richards Anthony
Published: July 2022

This paper presents findings from the Recipes for Resilience project, an international, interdisciplinary collaboration between Caribbean and UK scholars of history, geography, anthropology, cultural studies, development studies, ethnobotany, and climate-risk studies, and the research partners, the Caribbean Youth Environment Network. The purpose of the project was to investigate how agrifood heritage may be mobilized in creative ways to engage Caribbean youth in climate action and justice. The project utilized arts and humanities methods, such as storytelling, songwriting, online games, and brief research-led talks, culminating in the co-created song: “Food and Resistance for Climate Resilience”. The results of the project provide evidence that climate action requires arts and humanities methods to appeal to youth, as opposed to purely fact-based or scientific forms of climate communication. We conclude that co-creative methods such as music and storytelling can inspire youth to engage in climate action, in this case through a (re)valuation culinary and agricultural heritage.
Towards a Sustainability-Based Society: An Analysis of Fundamental Values from the Perspective of Economics and Philosophy
Authors: Hereu-Morales Joan , Valderrama César
Published: July 2022

Sustainability faces numerous challenges when applied to the real-world global economic model of capitalism. In implementing sustainability planning based on the triple bottom line (TBL), the prevailing trend of the economic pillar compromises both the environment and society. A new vision of enduring sustainability is proposed in this paper to address such challenges by first considering the global economic model in the real world and, second, having strong core values of sustainability. To evaluate the first characteristic, a review of the literature regarding capitalism and TBL-sustainability has been conducted. For the second characteristic, a historical–philosophical discussion around the role of society and the economy has been conducted. The results suggest that a realistic sustainable society requires a fixed and sustained focus on environmental and social pillars together with a flexible organisation of society (including its economic model).
Green Entrepreneurship among Students—Social and Behavioral Motivation
Authors: Anghel Gabriela Alina , Anghel Mihai Alin
Published: July 2022

The research is proposing to analyze the relationship between education for green entrepreneurship among students and their interests in implementing business ideas in the field of green entrepreneurship. The research has had the projection of an explanation regarding specific factors of students when approaching a subject like green entrepreneurship. It has started from the paradigm in which the rise of interest for green entrepreneurship is influenced by the knowledge regarding the opportunities of creating green business and by the level of developing entrepreneurial competencies. In this framework, a set of research hypotheses has been created as follows: students’ preoccupation for ecological entrepreneurship is influenced by their age (H1); students’ preoccupation for green entrepreneurship is influenced by identifying and recognizing ideas for green business (H2); students’ satisfaction regarding the quality of entrepreneurial education directly influences the preoccupation regarding the creation of a green business (H3). The research is a quantitative type and has been created on a sample representative (N = 123 students, valid N = 120) from the Valahia University of Targoviste, Romania of which the students are part. The research variables were constructed with the module style extracted from scientifically validated research tools. The measurements of variables have been conducted with the help of a Likert-type scale and interpretation with ANOVA. The results of the research were the following—according to the Likelihood Ratio Chi-Square test, there were compared and analyzed variables such as green knowledge and education for green entrepreneurship, to be able to quantify the students’ preoccupation values with green entrepreneurship. The p-value is ˃1, which means that the researched subjects manifest increased interest in green entrepreneurship. This fact demonstrates that the average of the values which were attributed according to the Likert-type scale has offered values between 4 and 5 (5 being the maximum level), a fact that confirms the students’ increased preoccupation with green entrepreneurship. The assigned values obtained are: 18–22 age (m = 4.1532), 22–25 age (m = 4.4375), 26–28 age (m = 4.4375), 29–39 age (m = 4.2396), and the over 39 age (m = 4.2750). We also concluded that the concern for green entrepreneurship among students correlates positively with entrepreneurship education and green knowledge.
An Empirical Investigation of Green Product Design and Development Strategies for Eco Industries Using Kano Model and Fuzzy AHP
Authors: Batwara Amber , Sharma Vikram , Makkar Mohit , Giallanza Antonio
Published: July 2022

Collaboration in green product design and development is becoming more significant to ensure a brighter future for eco industries, and research into such innovation has increased in recent years. So, it has been emphasized by practitioners that green thinking should be adopted from the design stage through the development stage and into the disposal stage of a product. However, it is challenging to identify the severity of strategies that mainly hampers the growth of green product design and development (GPDD). The current research aimed to identify and rank various strategies based on their significant impact on the development of green product design. The study contains three segments: (1) Multiple strategies were identified based on the published literature, project reports, and interactions with academics and industry experts. Then, 22 strategies were selected for GPDD that could be divided into five clusters: cooperation and commitment from top management commitment (TMC), design for environment (DFE), utilization of green technologies (UGT), green external supply chain management (GESCM), and green internal supply chain management (GISCM). (2) The Kano model was used to identify user requirements and satisfaction levels. (3) The priority weight and rank among selected strategies were determined using the fuzzy AHP approach. The results show that the “DFE” ranks highest among the main categories, and “design for disassembly” has been highlighted as a necessary sub-criteria in the emerging eco industries. Various recommendations are suggested to adopt these techniques, which augment the growth of green product design and development for eco industries.
Relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility, Organizational Trust, and Corporate Reputation for Sustainable Performance
Authors: Yan Xiaofei , Espinosa-Cristia Juan Felipe , Kumari Kalpina , Cioca Lucian Ionel
Published: July 2022

In the current study, the authors looked at how companies’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives affect their reputation in the community using the stakeholder theory. More specifically, it is claimed that CSR initiatives with a particular focus on employees help firms create employee trust, which is an essential component of organizational long-term sustainable performance. Administrative fairness as a boundary condition bolsters the relationship between corporate reputation and trust. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was used to poll Chinese restaurant managers and non-managers on a 5-point Likert scale. Structural equation modeling was used to conduct structural analyses. CSR is a significant predictor of business reputation in the Chinese restaurant industry. It has also been discovered that trust in the organization is a partial mediator between the two. Furthermore, the data show that organizational justice moderates trust in the organization and the company’s reputation. This research examines the relationship between internal stakeholders’ perceptions of CSR activities and the company’s reputation, i.e., employees, for the first time. The findings provide vital information for restaurant management to boost their reputation in the market by engaging in E-CSR activities to strengthen their internal stakeholders.
Baseline Hemodynamics Including Aortic and Pulmonary Blood Flow in a Chronic Bovine Model
Authors: Moctezuma-Ramirez Angel , Elgalad Abdelmotagaly , Handy Kelly , Costas Gil , Frazier O. H.
Published: July 2022

The use of large animal models in the preclinical setting has expanded and become increasingly valuable for evaluating the safety and efficacy of new therapies and devices. Here, we report normal hemodynamic values, including aortic and pulmonary blood flow, in a bovine model at rest and during exercise after a control procedure. We performed a left lateral thoracotomy and implanted fluid-filled pressure lines (aortic pressure, right atrial pressure, left atrial pressure, pulmonary artery pressure) and left (systemic) and right (pulmonary) flow probe lines. Throughout the postoperative period, the calf’s physiologic pressures, vital signs, aortic and pulmonary blood flow, and pulmonary and systemic vascular resistance were recorded hourly at rest and during treadmill exercise evaluations. When pressures and flow rates at baseline and during treadmill trials were compared, we observed a physiologic response to exercise similar to that seen in humans, with a sympathetic discharge that increased systolic blood pressure. However, the rise in mean arterial pressure was much lower due to an overall decrease in vascular resistance, which increased blood flow. This study provides investigators, device engineers, and manufacturers with normal bovine cardiovascular physiology data that can be used for technical consideration during device development for preclinical trials.
Asymmetry of Endocast Surface Shape in Modern Humans Based on Diffeomorphic Surface Matching
Authors: Lin Sungui , Zhao Yuhao , Xing Song
Published: July 2022

Brain asymmetry is associated with handedness and cognitive function, and is also reflected in the shape of endocasts. However, comprehensive quantification of the asymmetry in endocast shapes is limited. Here, we quantify and visualize the variation of endocast asymmetry in modern humans using diffeomorphic surface matching. Our results show that two types of lobar fluctuating asymmetry contribute most to global asymmetry variation. A dominant pattern of local directional asymmetry is shared in the majority of the population: (1) the left occipital pole protrudes more than the right frontal pole in the left-occipital and right-frontal petalial asymmetry; (2) the left Broca’s cap appears to be more globular and bulges laterally, anteriorly, and ventrally compared to the right side; and (3) the asymmetrical pattern of the parietal is complex and the posterior part of the right temporal lobes are more bulbous than the contralateral sides. This study confirms the validity of endocasts for obtaining valuable information on encephalic asymmetries and reveals a more complicated pattern of asymmetry of the cerebral lobes than previously reported. The endocast asymmetry pattern revealed here provides more shape information to explore the relationships between brain structure and function, to re-define the uniqueness of human brains related to other primates, and to trace the timing of the human asymmetry pattern within hominin lineages.
The Digital Value Stream Twin
Authors: Frick Nicholas , Metternich Joachim
Published: July 2022

The Value Stream Method (VSM) is widely used in manufacturing to analyze and redesign value streams. The aim is to improve processes, reduce waste and create a thorough product flow. Despite having many benefits, VSM also comes with disadvantages regarding modern dynamic production environments. It fails to meet the requirement of providing reliable information for a realistic Value Stream Design (VSD) followed by targeted improvement activities. As a result, the VSM is usually subject to uncertainty and relies on expert knowledge. Digitalization, on the other hand, is leading to an increasing availability of production data. The use of data has the potential to support the VSM with targeted data preparation. In this regard, the concept of Digital Twin (DT) offers the capability of providing the required database to systematically collect and condense this data. This paper provides a framework for the Digital Value Stream Twin (DVST). In addition, requirements for the implementation of a DVST in practice will be elaborated.
Finding a Good Balance between Pressure to Publish and Scientific Integrity and How to Overcome Temptation of Scientific Misconduct
Authors: Quaia Emilio , Vernuccio Federica
Published: July 2022

Nowadays, there is a progressive increase in pressure to publish as well as greater emphasis on publishing in high impact journals, even sometimes with significant financial incentives attached [...]
Can Isoquinoline Alkaloids Affect Platelet Aggregation in Whole Human Blood?
Authors: Parvin Mst Shamima , Hrubša Marcel , Fadraersada Jaka , Carazo Alejandro , Karlíčková Jana , Cahlíková Lucie , Chlebek Jakub , Macáková Kateřina , Mladěnka Přemysl
Published: July 2022

Isoquinoline alkaloids have multiple biological activities, which might be associated with positive pharmacological effects as well as negative adverse reactions. As bleeding was suggested to be a side effect of the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine, we decided to ascertain if different isoquinoline alkaloids could influence hemocoagulation through the inhibition of either platelet aggregation or blood coagulation. Initially, a total of 14 compounds were screened for antiplatelet activity in whole human blood by impedance aggregometry. Eight of them demonstrated an antiplatelet effect against arachidonic acid-induced aggregation. Papaverine and bulbocapnine were the most potent compounds with biologically relevant IC50 values of 26.9 ± 12.2 μM and 30.7 ± 5.4 μM, respectively. Further testing with the same approach confirmed their antiplatelet effects by employing the most physiologically relevant inducer of platelet aggregation, collagen, and demonstrated that bulbocapnine acted at the level of thromboxane receptors. None of the alkaloids tested had an effect on blood coagulation measured by a mechanical coagulometer. In conclusion, the observed antiplatelet effects of isoquinoline alkaloids were found mostly at quite high concentrations, which means that their clinical impact is most likely low. Bulbocapnine was an exception. It proved to be a promising antiplatelet molecule, which may have biologically relevant effects.
A First Look at the Inhibitory Potential of Urospatha sagittifolia (Araceae) Ethanolic Extract for Bothrops atrox Snakebite Envenomation
Authors: Vera-Palacios Antonio L. , Sacoto-Torres Juan D. , Hernández-Altamirano Josselin A. , Moreno Andres , Peñuela-Mora Maria C. , Salazar-Valenzuela David , Mogollón Noroska G. S. , Almeida José R.
Published: July 2022

Bothrops atrox snakebites are a relevant problem in the Amazon basin. In this biodiverse region, the ethnomedicinal approach plays an important role as an alternative to antivenom therapy. Urospatha sagittifolia (Araceae) is a plant used for this purpose; however, its neutralizing properties have not been scientifically accessed. To fill this gap, we investigated the ability of U. sagittifolia to modulate the catalytic activity of Bothrops atrox venom, and their toxic consequences, such as local damage and lethality. The venom profile of B. atrox was assessed by chromatography and electrophoresis. Inhibition of the three main enzymatic and medically important toxins from the venom was evaluated using synthetic substrates and quantified by chromogenic activity assays. Additionally, the neutralization of lethality, hemorrhage and edema were investigated by in vivo assays. The possible interactions between venom proteins and plant molecules were visualized by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Finally, the phytochemical constituents present in the ethanolic extract were determined by qualitative and quantitative analyses. The ethanolic extract reduced the activity of the three main enzymes of venom target, achieving ranges from 19% to 81% of inhibition. Our in vivo venom neuralizations assays showed a significant inhibition of edema (38.72%) and hemorrhage (42.90%). Additionally, lethality was remarkably counteracted. The highest extract ratio evaluated had a 75% survival rate. Our data support the biomedical value of U. sagittifolia as a source of natural enzyme inhibitors able to neutralize catalytically active B. atrox venom toxins and their toxic effects.
Temporal and Spatial Analysis Techniques as Potential Tools for Combating the HIV Epidemic among Young Brazilian Amazonian People: An Ecological Study
Authors: Pedroso Andrey Oeiras , Gomes Dulce , Sousa Sara Melissa Lago , Ferreira Glenda Roberta Oliveira Naiff , Ramos Aline Maria Pereira Cruz , Polaro Sandra Helena Isse , Nogueira Laura Maria Vidal , Botelho Eliã Pinheiro
Published: July 2022

Background: The main goal of this study was to analyze the HIV epidemic temporally and spatially among young people living in Pará, Brazil, from 2007 to 2018. Methods: For the temporal analysis, we employed an integrated autoregression of moving averages model associated with the seasonal trend using the LOESS decomposition method, which allowed for predictions to be made. In the spatial analysis, the techniques of autocorrelation, spatial and spatio-temporal risk analysis, and geographically weighted regression were used. Results: During the study period, there were 8143 notifications of HIV/AIDS cases. The temporal prediction indicated a trend of growth in the incidence rate in the 20–24-year-old group from January 2019 to December 2022 and a trend of stability in the 15- to 19-year-old and 25- to 29-year-old groups. There was a territorial expansion of the HIV epidemic in Pará. Novo Progresso and the Metropolitan Region of Belém (RMB) were the zones with the highest spatial and spatio-temporal risk for HIV. Social determinants including the Basic Education Development Index, the number of physicians per 10,000 inhabitants, and the municipal high school abandonment rate in the municipalities were associated with the risk of HIV/AIDS among young people in Pará. Conclusions: To eliminate HIV among young people in Pará, the access to treatment, diagnosis, and preventive healthcare services should be expanded. Sexual and reproductive health education should be reinforced in schools and communities. Furthermore, it is necessary to promote social equity and fight HIV stigma.
Determination of the Physical Parameters of AGNs in Seyfert 1 Galaxies LEDA 3095839 and VII Zw 244 Based on Spectropolarimetric Observations
Authors: Shablovinskaya Elena , Piotrovich Mikhail , Malygin Eugene , Buliga Stanislava , Natsvlishvili Tinatin
Published: July 2022

Here we present the detailed investigation of AGNs in two Seyfert 1 galaxies, LEDA 3095839 and VII Zw 244. Both of them were observed within the photometric reverberation mapping project in Special Astrophysical Observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences (SAO RAS), during which we earlier obtained the SMBHs masses. After that, both galaxies were observed in spectropolarimetric and polarimetric modes on the BTA 6 m telescope of the SAO RAS with the focal reducer SCORPIO-2. The linear polarization of the continuum and broad Balmer lines has been measured. It was found that (i) there were no signs of equatorial scattering in the LEDA 3095839 galaxy in the broad Hα line, and we were able to estimate the value of SMBH spin and the magnetic field strength in the disk from the level of continuum polarization; (ii) for the galaxy VII Zw 244, the presence of equatorial scattering was shown, due to which the mass of the SMBH was independently measured, the inclination angle of the system was obtained, and the value of the spin was estimated.
Temporal and Spatial Patterns and a Space–Time Cluster Analysis of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreaks in Ethiopia from 2010 to 2019
Authors: Woldemariyam Fanos Tadesse , Leta Samson , Assefa Zerihun , Tekeba Etsegent , Gebrewold Dereje Shegu , Paeshuyse Jan
Published: July 2022

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an endemic disease in Ethiopia, although space–time cluster and monthly variation studies have never been assessed at national level. The current study aimed to identify the spatial and temporal distribution of FMD outbreaks in Ethiopia from national outbreak reports over a period of ten years from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2019. To this end, a total of 376,762 cases and 1302 outbreaks from 704 districts were obtained from the Minister of Agriculture for analyses. In general, the dry periods, i.e., October to March, of the year were recorded as the peak outbreak periods, with the highest prevalence in March 2012. The monthly average and the outbreak trends over ten years show a decrease of outbreaks from 2010 to 2019. Decomposing the FMD outbreak data time series showed that once an outbreak erupted, it continued for up to five years. Only 12% of the reported outbreaks were assigned to a specific serotype. Within these outbreaks, the serotypes O, A, SAT-2, and SAT-1 were identified in decreasing order of prevalence, respectively. When a window of 50% for the maximum temporal/space cluster size was set, a total of seven FMD clusters were identified in space and time. The primary cluster with a radius of 380.95 km was identified in the southern part of Ethiopia, with a likelihood ratio of 7.67 (observed/expected cases). The third cluster, with a radius of 144.14 km, was identified in the northeastern part of the country, and had a likelihood ratio of 5.66. Clusters 1 and 3 occurred from January 2017 to December 2019. The second cluster that occurred had a radius of 294.82 km, a likelihood ratio of 6.20, and was located in the central and western parts of Ethiopia. The sixth cluster, with a radius of 36.04 km and a likelihood ratio of 20.60, was set in southern Tigray, bordering Afar. Clusters 2 and 6 occurred in the same period, from January 2014 to December 2016. The fourth cluster in northern Tigray had a calculated radius of 95.50 km and a likelihood ratio of 1.17. The seventh cluster occurred in the north-central Amhara region, with a radius of 97 km and a likelihood ratio of 1.16. Clusters 4 and 7 occurred between January 2010 and December 2013. The spatiotemporal and cluster analysis of the FMD outbreaks identified in the context of the current study are crucial in implementing control, prevention, and a prophylactic vaccination schedule. This study pointed out October to March as well as the main time of the year during which FMD outbreaks occur. The area that extends from the south to north, following the central highlands, is the main FMD outbreak area in Ethiopia.
Effective Functional Immunogenicity of a DNA Vaccine Combination Delivered via In Vivo Electroporation Targeting Malaria Infection and Transmission
Authors: Cao Yi , Hayashi Clifford T. H. , Zavala Fidel , Tripathi Abhai K. , Simonyan Hayk , Young Colin N. , Clark Leor C. , Usuda Yukari , Van Parys Jacob M. , Kumar Nirbhay
Published: July 2022

Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP) and Pfs25 are leading candidates for the development of pre-erythrocytic and transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV), respectively. Although considerable progress has been made in developing PfCSP- and Pfs25-based vaccines, neither have elicited complete protection or transmission blocking in clinical trials. The combination of antigens targeting various life stages is an alternative strategy to develop a more efficacious malaria vaccine. In this study, female and male mice were immunized with DNA plasmids encoding PfCSP and Pfs25, administered alone or in combination via intramuscular in vivo electroporation (EP). Antigen-specific antibodies were analyzed for antibody titers, avidity and isotype by ELISA. Immune protection against sporozoite challenge, using transgenic P. berghei expressing PfCSP and a GFP-luciferase fusion protein (PbPfCSP-GFP/Luc), was assessed by in vivo bioluminescence imaging and blood-stage parasite growth. Transmission reducing activity (TRA) was evaluated in standard membrane feeding assays (SMFA). High levels of PfCSP- and Pfs25-specific antibodies were induced in mice immunized with either DNA vaccine alone or in combination. No difference in antibody titer and avidity was observed for both PfCSP and Pfs25 between the single DNA and combined DNA immunization groups. When challenged by PbPfCSP-GFP/Luc sporozoites, mice immunized with PfCSP alone or combined with Pfs25 revealed significantly reduced liver-stage parasite loads as compared to mice immunized with Pfs25, used as a control. Furthermore, parasite liver loads were negatively correlated with PfCSP-specific antibody levels. When evaluating TRA, we found that immunization with Pfs25 alone or in combination with PfCSP elicited comparable significant transmission reduction. Our studies reveal that the combination of PfCSP and Pfs25 DNAs into a vaccine delivered by in vivo EP in mice does not compromise immunogenicity, infection protection and transmission reduction when compared to each DNA vaccine individually, and provide support for further evaluation of this DNA combination vaccine approach in larger animals and clinical trials.
A Recombinant Chimeric Protein-Based Vaccine Containing T-Cell Epitopes from Amastigote Proteins and Combined with Distinct Adjuvants, Induces Immunogenicity and Protection against Leishmania infantum Infection
Authors: Lage Daniela P. , Vale Danniele L. , Linhares Flávia P. , Freitas Camila S. , Machado Amanda S. , Cardoso Jamille M. O. , de Oliveira Daysiane , Galvani Nathália C. , de Oliveira Marcelo P. , Oliveira-da-Silva João A. , Ramos Fernanda F. , Tavares Grasiele S. V. , Ludolf Fernanda , Bandeira Raquel S. , Pereira Isabela A. G. , Chávez-Fumagalli Miguel A. , Roatt Bruno M. , Machado-de-Ávila Ricardo A. , Christodoulides Myron , Coelho Eduardo A. F. , Martins Vívian T.
Published: July 2022

Currently, there is no licensed vaccine to protect against human visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a potentially fatal disease caused by infection with Leishmania parasites. In the current study, a recombinant chimeric protein ChimT was developed based on T-cell epitopes identified from the immunogenic Leishmania amastigote proteins LiHyp1, LiHyV, LiHyC and LiHyG. ChimT was associated with the adjuvants saponin (Sap) or monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) and used to immunize mice, and their immunogenicity and protective efficacy were evaluated. Both ChimT/Sap and ChimT/MPLA induced the development of a specific Th1-type immune response, with significantly high levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-12, TNF-α and GM-CSF cytokines produced by CD4+ and CD8+ T cell subtypes (p < 0.05), with correspondingly low production of anti-leishmanial IL-4 and IL-10 cytokines. Significantly increased (p < 0.05) levels of nitrite, a proxy for nitric oxide, and IFN-γ expression (p < 0.05) were detected in stimulated spleen cell cultures from immunized and infected mice, as was significant production of parasite-specific IgG2a isotype antibodies. Significant reductions in the parasite load in the internal organs of the immunized and infected mice (p < 0.05) were quantified with a limiting dilution technique and quantitative PCR and correlated with the immunological findings. ChimT/MPLA showed marginally superior immunogenicity than ChimT/Sap, and although this was not statistically significant (p > 0.05), ChimT/MPLA was preferred since ChimT/Sap induced transient edema in the inoculation site. ChimT also induced high IFN-γ and low IL-10 levels from human PBMCs isolated from healthy individuals and from VL-treated patients. In conclusion, the experimental T-cell multi-epitope amastigote stage Leishmania vaccine administered with adjuvants appears to be a promising vaccine candidate to protect against VL.
Vaccination with Omicron Inactivated Vaccine in Pre-vaccinated Mice Protects against SARS-CoV-2 Prototype and Omicron Variants
Authors: Zhang Yuntao , Tan Wenjie , Lou Zhiyong , Zhao Yuxiu , Zhang Jin , Liang Hongyang , Li Na , Zhu Xiujuan , Ding Ling , Huang Baoying , Zhou Weimin , Guo Yancen , Yang Zhaona , Qiao Yuling , He Zhenyu , Ma Bo , He Yao , Zhu Di , Wang Zhanhui , Chang Zhen , Zhao Xue , Wang Wei , Xu Ying , Zhu Huiqin , Zheng Xiaotong , Wang Chenlong , Xu Guangxue , Wu Guizhen , Wang Hui , Yang Xiaoming
Published: July 2022

In response to the fast-waning immune response and the great threat of the Omicron variant of concern (VOC) to the public, we report the pilot-scale production of an inactivated Omicron vaccine candidate that induces high levels of neutralizing antibody titers to protect against the Omicron virus. Here, we demonstrate that the inactivated Omicron vaccine is safe and effective in recalling immune responses to the HB02, Omicron, and Delta viruses after one or two doses of BBIBP-CorV. In addition, the efficient productivity and good genetic stability of the manufactured inactivated vaccine is proved. These results support the further evaluation of the Omicron vaccine in a clinical trial.
The Dissemination of a Single Staphylococcusaureus Strain, Spa-t2873, as the Predominant Cause of Bovine Mastitis in Israeli Dairy Farms
Authors: Shwimmer Adin , Falk Rama , De-Levie Tamar K. , Lasnoy Michal , Levytskyi Katia , Adler Amos
Published: July 2022

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most important pathogens causing intramammary infection (IMI) in dairy herds. The goals of this study were (1) to describe the prevalence of S. aureus in Israeli dairy farms; (2) to characterize the spa-based clonal structure of mastitis-related S. aureus isolates; (3) to analyze the transmission network of a large outbreak within a single farm and (4) to characterize the virulence factors of the outbreak strain. The prevalence and the molecular survey were performed on all Israeli IMI-related isolates, 9.2019–8.2020. Molecular methods included spa-typing for the survey and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) for the investigation of the farm ‘A’ outbreak. During the one-year survey, S. aureus was identified in 152 dairy farms, with a total of 440 positive samples. The spa t2873 was found in 284 isolates (64.5%) across 112 farms (73.6%). Other common types included t529 (n = 46), t9303 (n = 34) and the methicillin-resistant S. aureus t011 (n = 11). The highest number of cases (n = 25) was detected in Farm ‘A’, all of which were found to be spa t2873. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that most transmission events occurred within the same milking group, and inter-group transmission was due to the transfer of cows between groups or due to consecutive milking order. The spa t2873 strain contained putative virulence genes, including various intracellular and collagen adhesion proteins. Our study revealed the dissemination of the t2873 strain to the majority of Israeli dairy farms. The possibility of inter-farm transmission should be monitored and prevented.
Settling of Iron and Aluminum Particles in Acid Solutions for Acid Drainage Remediation
Authors: Guerra Paula , Valenzuela Julio , Rámila Consuelo , Cattaneo Giannina
Published: July 2022

Mineral processing is intensive in water usage. Unfortunately, a large portion of this valuable asset is contaminated by toxic species that leach from tailings or mineral ore, leading to the formation of acid drainage. Water from acid drainages can still be recovered by passive environmentally friendly treatments. An underestimated passive treatment is the settling of harmful metals, such as iron and aluminum. In this sense, floc settling from acid drainage has not been well studied. The objective of this work is to research the phenomena governing iron and aluminum floc settling in acid drainage, particularly, the chemical conditions that promote settling. The settling velocity of iron and aluminum flocs was studied in a column at different pH and iron/aluminum concentrations. Stability was studied through zeta potential. According to the results, iron flocs settle faster than aluminum and aluminum+iron (mixed) flocs, and a lower pH promotes a higher settling velocity and greater floc stability, which a lower zeta potential (which favors aggregation) allows for. The results improve the understanding of the interactions between the chemical and physical processes involved in floc settling, which, in turn, can improve the optimization of water treatment design. Future experiments must include particle size distribution, floc porosity, and effective particle density of iron and/or aluminum particles in acid waters.
Effects of Caffeine and COD from Coffee Wastewater on Anaerobic Ammonium Oxidation (Anammox) Activities
Authors: Wongphoom Titima , Saleepochn Tharinee , Noophan Pongsak Lek , Li Chi-Wang
Published: July 2022

An anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) process was employed to remove nitrogen from wastewater generated from a coffee brewing facility. The effects of caffeine and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in coffee wastewater on anammox activity were investigated. The anammox activity was inhibited in synthetic wastewater with a caffeine concentration greater than 350 mg/L. Daily additions of caffeine at 2.5 mg/L for 28 days to the same substrate did not inhibit anammox activity. However, daily additions of coffee wastewater with COD of ≥387 mg/L and caffeine at 2.5 mg/L significantly inhibited anammox activity. Because the pH was increased in the system, resulting in an increase in free ammonia (FA) concentration, one could postulate that FA is an inhibitor of anammox activity. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis was employed to determine the populations of anammox and denitrifying bacteria. Coffee wastewater with bacterial COD to total nitrogen (bCOD:TN) ratios of 0.3–0.6:1 did not have any effect on the abundances of anammox and denitrifying bacteria. The results from this work suggest that biodegradable COD (bCOD) rather than total COD (TCOD) should be used for calculating the COD:TN ratio during the study of the effects of nitrogen removal from real wastewaters using the anammox process. A not-competitive model could fit the anammox inhibition with caffeine concentrations at 50–500 mg/L with maximum specific anammox activity (SAAmax) of 0.594 mg-N/mg-volatile suspended solids (VSS)/d and inhibitory constant (Ki) of 480.97 mg/L.
Assessment of Climate Change Impact on Discharge of the Lakhmass Catchment (Northwest Tunisia)
Authors: Ben Nsir Siwar , Jomaa Seifeddine , Yıldırım Ümit , Zhou Xiangqian , D’Oria Marco , Rode Michael , Khlifi Slaheddine
Published: July 2022

The Mediterranean region is increasingly recognized as a climate change hotspot but is highly underrepresented in hydrological climate change studies. This study aims to investigate the climate change effects on the hydrology of Lakhmass catchment in Tunisia. Lakhmass catchment is a part of the Medium Valley of Medjerda in northwestern Tunisia that drains an area of 126 km². First, the Hydrologiska Byråns Vattenbalansavdelning light (HBV-light) model was calibrated and validated successfully at a daily time step to simulate discharge during the 1981–1986 period. The Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency and Percent bias (NSE, PBIAS) were (0.80, +2.0%) and (0.53, −9.5%) for calibration (September 1982–August 1984) and validation (September 1984–August 1986) periods, respectively. Second, HBV-light model was considered as a predictive tool to simulate discharge in a baseline period (1981–2009) and future projections using data (precipitation and temperature) from thirteen combinations of General Circulation Models (GCMs) and Regional Climatic Models (RCMs). We used two trajectories of Representative Concentration Pathways, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, suggested by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Each RCP is divided into three projection periods: near-term (2010–2039), mid-term (2040–2069) and long-term (2070–2099). For both scenarios, a decrease in precipitation and discharge will be expected with an increase in air temperature and a reduction in precipitation with almost 5% for every +1 °C of global warming. By long-term (2070–2099) projection period, results suggested an increase in temperature with about 2.7 °C and 4 °C, and a decrease in precipitation of approximately 7.5% and 15% under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively. This will likely result in a reduction of discharge of 12.5% and 36.6% under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively. This situation calls for early climate change adaptation measures under a participatory approach, including multiple stakeholders and water users.
Producción local de perfiles de aluminio y su impacto en la construcción de viviendas
Authors: Armijos Naula Johanna Michelle , Bosquez López Mariuxi Katherine , Zapata Barros Ángel Enrique
Published: July 2022

Dentro de los acabados de viviendas, los materiales más empleados son los perfiles de aluminio que en la localidad se dedica a la comercialización de este insumo que en general son importados. Por ello, la presente investigación tiene como objetivo analizar el impacto que tendría la sustitución de las importaciones por producción local de perfiles de aluminio en los costos y el desempeño en general de la industria de la construcción en la provincia. Para ello se empleó la metodología de evaluación de impacto de la Unión Europea 2006 compuesta por ocho pasos, además se utilizó un enfoque cuantitativo de carácter no experimental, que permitió evaluar el efecto económico de forma objetiva mediante la aplicación de técnicas como encuestas y entrevistas, las mismas que al ser analizadas permitieron sostener la hipótesis siguiente: la producción local de perfiles de aluminio reduce significativamente los costos de construcción de una vivienda.

 

Palabras clave: Productividad; extrusión; importaciones; inversión; efecto económico.

 

ABSTRACT

 

Within the finishes of housing, the most used material are the aluminium profiles themselves that in the locality is dedicated to the commercialization of this input that are usually imported. Therefore, this investigation aims to analyze the impact of replacing imports with local production of aluminium profiles on the costs and overall performance of the construction industry in the province. To this end, the European Union’s eight-step impact assessment methodology was used, and a non-experimental quantitative approach was also used, since it allowed the economic effect to be assessed objectively through the application of techniques such as surveys and interviews themselves that when analyzed made it possible to sustain the hypothesis following: local production of aluminium profiles significantly reduces the costs of building a home.

 

Keywords: Productivity; extrusion; imports; investment; economic effect.
Modelo de gestión de inventarios a través de mínimos y máximos en la empresa comercial “Muebles Chabelita”
Authors: Ugando Peñate Mikel , Parrales Domínguez Brittany Alejandra , Bustos Zamora Dennisse Thalía
Published: July 2022

Esta investigación tiene como objetivo aplicar el modelo de mínimos y máximos como herramienta para la gestión y administración de inventarios en la empresa "Muebles Chabelita", que se dedica a la compra y venta de productos elaborados en madera y otros en el cantón Quinindé. Se analizaron los problemas de la empresa y se aplicó el modelo a través de un ejemplo haciendo uso de la línea de productos de colchones alta gama como la más importante. Finalmente, se propusieron indicadores de gestión para evaluar la efectividad de dicho modelo. Se desarrolló bajo un enfoque mixto (cuantitativo-cualitativo), un diseño no experimental y un tipo de investigación descriptiva, donde se aplicó una entrevista al propietario y encuestas a los colaboradores. Los resultados muestran que la sobreoferta de productos es una de las causas del mal funcionamiento interno, ya que se realizan compras de productos que están disponibles en el almacén, así como la escasez de otros productos que no suelen salir fácilmente. La empresa debe seguir aplicando el modelo mínimo y máximo a todas las líneas de productos, ya que es el que mejor se adapta a la situación actual de la empresa.
La tecnología en la producción de las pymes agrícolas de Portoviejo
Authors: Macías Loor Natacha , Intriago Cedeño Mercedes Elina , Arteaga García María
Published: July 2022

El cantón Portoviejo, compuesto por parroquias urbanas y rurales, estas últimas poseen una tierra fértil que ha permitido contribuir en fuentes de trabajo y dinamizar la economía de estos sectores. El presente artículo es el resultado de la investigación realizada a 57 pymes agrícolas asociadas que están ubicadas en estas parroquias y el objetivo es analizar la influencia de la tecnología en la producción de las pymes agrícolas. La metodología corresponde al enfoque cualitativo, que permite comprender la dinámica en la toma de decisiones de los directivos, las fuentes de financiamiento; la información se obtuvo a través de entrevistas a las personas encargadas de la gestión y a los asesores de créditos de las entidades bancarias locales y encuestas. Los resultados muestran que las pymes que han introducido tecnología obtuvieron mejores niveles de producción y resultados económicos, logrando mantenerse en el mercado en el mediano y largo plazo.

 

Palabras clave: Cambio tecnológico, producción, política de financiamiento
Factores explicativos de la variación del Producto Interno Bruto en Ecuador entre 1996 y 2019
Authors: Gomezcuello Benavides Irlanda Marisol , Morocho Añazco Josselyn Valeria , Salcedo Muñoz Virgilio Eduardo , Apolo Vivanco Nervo Jonpiere
Published: July 2022

Para evaluar el desempeño económico de un país a lo largo del tiempo, es importante seguir la evolución del comportamiento del Producto Interno Bruto. El objetivo de esta investigación fue describir la contribución de factores como el tamaño de la población, el mercado laboral, el empleo y la productividad laboral en la variación del Producto Interno Bruto real de Ecuador de 1996 al 2019. Se analizó la interacción de las distintas variables según un modelo de descomposición de la variación del Producto Interno Bruto real, cuya contribución más importante es la identificación de las principales fuentes asociadas a la evolución del Producto Interno Bruto en el corto plazo. Los resultados fundamentales revelaron que la tasa de crecimiento del Producto Interno Bruto real muestra un comportamiento fluctuante en el período, con dos años de caída o variaciones negativas en el Producto Interno Bruto (1999 y 2016). La mayor parte de la variación absoluta acumulada del Producto Interno Bruto entre 1996 y 2019 tuvo una contrapartida en el efecto generado por la variación de la población en edad de trabajar. Sin embargo, la mayor correlación se encontró entre la tasa de crecimiento del Producto Interno Bruto y las tasas de crecimiento interanual de la población ocupada y la productividad, lo que sugiere que el crecimiento del Producto Interno Bruto es bajo principalmente por la baja expansión en el empleo y la productividad.
Un paseo de sabores por el oriente cubano
Authors: Cuza Valdés Daniela , Palao Fuentes Rosa , Cruz Aguilera Nolberto , Cruz Aguilera Arnel
Published: July 2022

El oriente cubano con su amplio patrimonio gastronómico es la región que más ha contribuido a la conformación de la identidad culinaria a nivel nacional, Debido a la importancia que esto tiene, se realizó el presente estudio, el cual se propuso dar a conocer la gastronomía oriental, así como las potencialidades que posee este territorio para desarrollar un turismo gastronómico. Para ello se realizó un análisis de debilidades, fortalezas, amenazas y oportunidades el cual concluye con sugerencias de acciones que estimulan la promoción y comercialización de los productos gastronómicos de la zona. Se abordaron los beneficios que aporta para la comunidad la adecuada valorización y empleo de estos recursos, así como la posible inclusión de platillos tradicionales en rutas gastronómicas. Para mostrar las riquezas culinarias del territorio se efectuó una disertación de platos típicos, con bebidas y postres surgidos en la manigua hace más de doscientos años, que representan parte importante de la historia y lucha de independencia, así como costumbres gastronómicas vinculadas a creencias y hábitos transmitidos de generación en generación.
Enhanced Thermal Conductivities of Liquid Crystal Polyesters from Controlled Structure of Molecular Chains by Introducing Different Dicarboxylic Acid Monomers
Authors: Zhong Xiao , Ruan Kunpeng , Gu Junwei
Published: July 2022

Enhancing thermal conductivity coefficient (
λ
) of liquid crystal polyesters would further widen their application in electronics and electricals. In this work, a kind of biphenyl-based dihydroxy monomer is synthesized using 4, 4’-biphenyl (BP) and triethylene glycol (TEG) as raw material, which further reacts with three different dicarboxylic acids (succinic acid, p-phenylenediacetic acid, and terephthalic acid, respectively) by melt polycondensation to prepare intrinsically highly thermally conductive poly 4’, 4”’-[1, 2-ethanediyl-bis(oxy-2, 1-ethanediyloxy)]-bis(p-hydroxybiphenyl) succinate (PEOS), poly 4’, 4”’-[1, 2-ethanediyl-bis(oxy-2, 1-ethanediyloxy)]-bis(p-hydroxybiphenyl) p-phenyldiacetate (PEOP) and poly 4’, 4”’-[1, 2-ethanediyl-bis(oxy-2, 1-ethanediyloxy)]-bis(p-hydroxybiphenyl) terephthalate (PEOT), collectively called biphenyl-based liquid crystal polyesters (B-LCPE). The results show that B-LCPE possess the desired molecular structure, exhibit smectic phase in liquid crystal range and semicrystalline polymers at room temperature, and possess excellent intrinsic thermal conductivities, thermal stabilities, and mechanical properties.

λ

of PEOT is 0.51 W/(m·K), significantly exceeds that of polyethylene terephthalate (0.15 W/(m·K)) which has similar molecular structure with PEOT, and also higher than that of PEOS (0.32 W/(m·K)) and PEOP (0.38 W/(m·K)). The corresponding heat resistance index (
T
HRI
), elasticity modulus, and hardness of PEOT are 174.6°C, 3.6 GPa, and 154.5 MPa, respectively, and also higher than those of PEOS (162.2°C, 1.8 GPa, and 83.4 MPa) and PEOP (171.8°C, 2.3 GPa, and 149.6 MPa).