bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Design of a Novel Digital Puzzle Gaming System for Young Children’s Learning by Interactive Multi-Sensing and Tangible User Interfacing Techniques
Authors: Wang Chao-Ming , Lee Bo-Ting , Lo Ting-Yun
Published: February 2023

In the fast-developing digital era, improving young children’s learning abilities by information technology has become a goal of early childhood education. Accordingly, a novel digital puzzle gaming system for young children’s learning is proposed, which is based on interactive multi-sensing and tangible user interfacing techniques. Three childhood education factors—digital learning, puzzle gaming, and interactive interfacing—are considered in the system design. Firstly, the needs in the development of the physical and mental functions, as well as the cognition and learning capabilities, of children aged 4–6 years are reviewed. Next, the existing studies of digital gaming for education are analyzed. Then, the proposed system was constructed to combine visual, auditory, and animation interfaces for easy uses by young children. The effectiveness of the system for young children’s learning was evaluated statistically using the SPSS based on the users’ and experts’ opinions collected from the methods of behavior observation, interview, and questionnaire survey. Several facts about young children’s learning have been found: (1) simple tangible interfaces can bring forth good gaming experiences to children; (2) rich visual and sound effects can enhance game-playing pleasures; (3) digital puzzle gaming have positive impacts on learning in early childhood education. In conclusion, the design of a digital puzzle gaming system like the proposed one with simple and physical interactive interfacing can bring forth a good gaming experience to children, and rich visual and sound effects can enhance the game-playing pleasure, indicating that digital puzzle gaming has a positive impact on young children’s learning in early childhood education.
The Use of Fertilizers and Pesticides in Wheat Production in the Main European Countries
Authors: Tudor Valentina Constanta , Stoicea Paula , Chiurciu Irina-Adriana , Soare Elena , Iorga Adina Magdalena , Dinu Toma Adrian , David Livia , Micu Marius Mihai , Smedescu Dragos Ion , Dumitru Eduard Alexandru
Published: February 2023

The aspects highlighted in this paper refer to the application of fertilizers and plant protection products to the wheat crop, and their impact on total production, competitiveness in export markets, price optimization as a result of increased harvest quality, and not least row, ensuring farmers’ incomes. The present analysis concerned the areas cultivated with wheat, and the productions achieved in relation to the quantities of fertilizers and protection products used in wheat cultivation, in Romania, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Hungary, Poland and the UK. The analysis highlighted that, the average productions are influenced both by the technology used, by the fertilization and treatments applied, as well as by other synergistic factors that intervene in wheat crops. In countries such as Spain and Italy, the correlation between the amounts of N (nitrogen), P2O5 (phosphorus), K2O (potassium) and the average production of wheat is insignificant, but in Romania and Hungary, there is a strong, direct connection between the number of fertilizers used and the average wheat crop yield. In Romania and Hungary, there is a very significant connection, but the production link average with pesticides is negative, while in Germany, the correlation is direct and quite intense for all types of fertilizers used, while the use of pesticides has a lower influence on average wheat production. In this study, we also applied a multiple regression model; in which the dependent variable was the average yield of wheat per ha and the independent variables were the average quantity of pesticides and fertilizers used. We used the “t Stat” values for each coefficient to determine whether the coefficient is equal to zero; where a high value of “t Stat”, greater than 2; indicates the fact that the coefficient is significantly different from the value zero. The “p-value” for each coefficient indicates the probability that the coefficient has the value zero. A value below the significance level of 5% results in a coefficient significantly different from zero and with an impact on the dependent variable. The use of fertilizers on wheat crops has a synergistic effect as shown by the multiple linear regression analysis which demonstrated a strong direct relationship, particularly with the amount of N, K2O and P2O5 applied.
Understanding the Continuance Intention of Omnichannel: Combining TAM and TPB
Authors: Song Hyo Geun , Jo Hyeon
Published: February 2023

Nowadays, consumers use information devices to use products and services through various channels. Omnichannel promotes sales improvement by allowing businesses to secure multiple channels. It provides consumers with a wider range of choices and monetary advantages. As such, omnichannel facilitates economic sustainability as a major platform for commerce. The purpose of this study is to identify the determinants of consumers’ continuous intention to use omnichannel. This research collected data from 262 consumers who had used omnichannel. Partial lease square structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the empirical data. The results found that accessibility positively affects perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and relative advantage. Monetary saving positively influences relative advantage. Perceived risk has a negative association with relative advantage. Continuance intention is influenced by relative advantage, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. This study offers an academic contribution in that the model was expanded by combining the theories of both technology and human behavior. It provides practical implications that omnichannel practitioners should prioritize money saving, perceived risks, and relative advantages. To enhance the generality of the results, future research needs to survey consumers in more countries. This work would be a useful guide to the sustainability of the economy.
A Spatial Model of Landslides with A Micro-Topography and Vegetation Approach for Sustainable Land Management in the Volcanic Area
Authors: Masruroh Heni , Soemarno Soemarno , Kurniawan Syahrul , Leksono Amin Setyo
Published: February 2023

This study aims to produce a spatial model for sustainable land management in landslide-prone areas, based on exploring non-stationary relationships between landslide events, geomorphological and anthropogenic variables on tropical hillsides, especially in Taji Village, Jabung District, East Java Province, Indonesia. A series of approaches combine in this research, and methods are used to construct independent and dependent variables so that GWR can analyze them to obtain the best model. Transformation of categorical data on microtopography, landform, and land cover variables was carried out. When modelled, landscape metrics can explain landslide events in the study area better than distance metrics with adj. R2 = 0.75 and AICc = 2526.38. Generally, local coefficient maps for each variable are mapped individually to reveal their relationship with landslide events, but in this study they are integrated to make it more intuitive and less confusing. From this map, it was found that most of the variables that showed the most positive relationship to the occurrence of landslides in the study area were the divergent footslopes. At the same time, the negative one was plantation land. It was concluded that the methodological approach offered and implemented in this study provides significant output results for the spatial analysis of the interaction of landslide events with geomorphological and anthropogenic variables locally, which cannot be explained in a global regression. This study produces a detailed scale landslide-prone conservation model in tropical hill areas and can be reproduced under the same geo-environmental conditions.
A Novel Integrated Design Methodology for Nature-Based Solutions and Soil and Water Bioengineering Interventions: The Tardio&Mickovski Methodology
Authors: Tardio Guillermo , Mickovski Slobodan B.
Published: February 2023

A methodology for designing nature-based solutions (NBS) and soil and water bioengineering (SWB) works is proposed which includes the main particularities of this type of intervention. The dynamic nature of NBS/SWB works, their most important changes and possible critical scenarios are reflected in the proposed methodology. A clear and practical time framework for design checks is also defined. Existing structural design routines and plant root reinforcement models are integrated into the proposed time staged scheme. Likewise, the connections with the monitoring stage and the possibilities of continuous improvement are incorporated as an essential characteristic of the approach of this type of intervention. The proposed methodology is validated by means of a practical case study example embracing the whole service life of an SWB/NBS intervention. The obtained results are in good agreement with both the accumulated experience within the European SWB sector and the existing data collected in SWB monitoring works. The proposed methodology can be readily implemented in a wide range of nature restoration projects and works.
Natural Capital, Institutional Quality and SDG Progress in Emerging Market and Developing Economies
Authors: Barbier Edward B. , Burgess Joanne C.
Published: February 2023

Whether environmental impacts, natural capital depreciation, and effective governance have impacted progress in emerging market and developing economies (EMDEs) to achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN Agenda 2030 has become a significant policy topic. We determine estimates of the changes in net welfare that indicate progress over 2000–2019 in terms of meeting the 17 SDGs for 99 EMDEs. We compare these estimates with the environmental impacts associated with SDGs 11–15, natural resource depletion as a share of national income, and average institutional quality. Net SDG welfare gains over 2000–2019 were often accompanied by adverse environmental impacts, natural capital depletion, and poor-quality institutions. This is especially the case for low- and lower-middle-income economies. Higher net SDG welfare gains are correlated with reduced losses associated with SDGS 11–15, and larger welfare gains from attaining SDG 1 No Poverty are associated with better governance. These results suggest that long-term progress towards the SDGs in EMDEs hinges on improved management of natural capital and the environment, as well as more effective governance. Three policies can be implemented to achieve these objectives without additional financing or imposing fiscal burdens: fossil fuel subsidy swaps, tropical carbon taxes, and improved management and distribution of resource revenues.
Global Leaf Area Index Research over the Past 75 Years: A Comprehensive Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Ma Jun , Zhang Jianpeng , Wang Jinliang , Khromykh Vadim , Li Jie , Zhong Xuzheng
Published: February 2023

The leaf area index (LAI) is widely used as an important indicator and ecological parameter of vegetation structure and growth status, but the LAI lacks bibliometric analysis. To further understand the LAI’s research status and frontier dynamics, we used 75 years of data (1947–2021) from the Web of Science for scientific bibliometric analysis. The results showed that 22,276 LAI re-search papers were published from 1947 to 2021. According to the characteristics of the literature growth, LAI research can be divided into five stages: incubation, cultivation, acceleration, evolution, and outbreak periods. The research power at the different stages had different characteristics. The overall research power of the United States is number one globally, followed by China, Canada, and France. The related disciplines were widely varied, involving agriculture (the most studied field of LAI research), environmental science and ecology, remote sensing, and other fields. The development of the Google Earth engine, cloud computing platforms, and unmanned aerial vehicle technology will provide more critical support for LAI research. The results of this paper quantitatively show the development history, research hotspots, and application of LAI research and provide a reference for understanding the current situation and development trends of global LAI research.
Response of Vegetation Dynamics in the Three-North Region of China to Climate and Human Activities from 1982 to 2018
Authors: Liang Weijia , Quan Quan , Wu Bohua , Mo Shuhong
Published: February 2023

To tackle ecological problems, many ecological restoration projects have been implemented in northern China. Identifying the drivers of vegetation change is critical for continued ecological engineering. In this study, three typical ecological reserves in the Three-North Shelter Forest Program Region (TNSFR) were selected to identify their vegetation development characteristics and driving mechanisms using the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), climate factors, and land use data. The results show that (1) NDVIs increased in the range of human activities of all of the three ecological reserves, indicating an obvious effect of the vegetation restoration projects. (2) In the planting period, vegetation restoration was mainly correlated with human activities. After entering the tending period, the impact of climate changes on vegetation dynamics was enhanced. (3) Temperature and precipitation provided approximate driving effects on vegetation dynamics in Region I, while vegetation dynamics in Regions II and III were more strongly correlated with precipitation. (4) The proportion of areas with ecological measures exceeded 50% in all three regions. In short, ecological projects in the three ecological reserves dominated the quantity of vegetation restoration, while climate changes influenced the quality of vegetation restoration.
The Role of Housing in Sustainable European Long-Term Care Systems
Authors: Rogelj Valerija , Bogataj David , Bogataj Marija , Campuzano-Bolarín Francisco , Drobež Eneja
Published: February 2023

There is evidence of benefits from the national health insurance systems in the EU Member States in the case of better-adjustment of housing units to the functional capacities of older adults. Still, the systematic approach to evaluating the social value (SV) of investments in specialised housing and other types of built environment is not yet developed. This paper aims to show how these benefits can be quantified if we evaluate the actuarial present value (APV) of reducing public expenditures in Long-term care (LTC), including Health care (HC) in these systems, after the development of specialised housing units which can accommodate the declined functional capacities of seniors. The paper presents steps to measure the SV as the impact of investments in the properly built age-friendly public housing stock, creating positive externalities for HC expenditures and LTC systems achieved for the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia, thereby decreasing expenditures for this body. We developed a new model to forecast the SV of investments in specialised social housing as savings for national health and care systems, particularly the Central-European health and care insurance systems. We were forecasting the different demands for different specialised housing as part of the social infrastructure for insured older adults, which mitigates public expenditure on HC and LTC services. The multistate transitions are described based on projections and probability-weighted cashflows (actuarial present value, APV) are calculated. Unfortunately, there are no documents by the European Commission yet, although the Commission stresses the need to develop such a model.
Analysis of Laser Cell Response Characteristics under Different Irradiation Conditions
Authors: Wang Xudong , Chen Jinmao , Xiong Chunhua , Li Shizhan , Xu Wanli
Published: February 2023

Although the application of laser wireless energy transmission technology in many fields such as UAV power supply is increasing, the laser incidence angle and beam shift remain the key factors limiting the efficiency of long-range laser wireless energy transmission. In this study, a laser cell response test platform was built to measure and analyze the response characteristics of a laser cell under different laser incidence angles and beam shifts. The results show that the increase in the incident angle intensifies the reflection on the irradiated surface, resulting in a linear decrease in the power density received by the laser cell, which eventually leads to a significant decrease in the output power, and the output power tends to be close to 0 when the incident angle exceeds 75°. The increase in the beam offset distance increases the reverse bias of the cell, which is the main reason for the significant decrease in the output power. The local irradiation also leads to an increase in the heat generation power; when the beam coverage is below 50%, the overall output power tends to be close to 0. This study provides a reference for improving the laser wireless energy transmission efficiency and laser cell optimization.
A Hybrid Cross Layer with Harris-Hawk-Optimization-Based Efficient Routing for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Xue Xingsi , Shanmugam Ramalingam , Palanisamy SatheeshKumar , Khalaf Osamah Ibrahim , Selvaraj Dhanasekaran , Abdulsahib Ghaida Muttashar
Published: February 2023

Efficient clustering and routing is a main challenge in a wireless sensor network (WSN). To achieve better quality-of-service (QoS) performance, this work introduces k-medoids with improved artificial-bee-colony (K-IABC)-based energy-efficient clustering and the cross-layer-based Harris-hawks-optimization-algorithm (CL-HHO) routing protocol for WSN. To overcome the power-asymmetry problem in wireless sensor networks, a cross-layer-based optimal-routing solution is proposed. The goal of cross-layer routing algorithms is to decrease network-transmission delay and power consumption. This algorithm which was used to evaluate and select the effective path route and data transfer was implemented using MATLAB, and the results were compared to some existing techniques. The proposed CL-HHO performs well in packet-loss ratio (PLR), throughput, end-to-end delay (E2E), jitter, network lifetime (NLT) and buffer occupancy. These results are then validated by comparing them to traditional routing strategies such as hierarchical energy-efficient data gathering (HEED), energy-efficient-clustering routing protocol (EECRP), Grey wolf optimization (GWO), and cross-layer-based Ant-Lion optimization (CL-ALO). Compared to the HEED, EECRP, GWO, and CL-ALO algorithms, the proposed CL-HHO outperforms them.
Collaborative Energy Price Computing Based on Sarima-Ann and Asymmetric Stackelberg Games
Authors: Zhang Tiantian , Wu Yongtang , Chen Yuling , Li Tao , Ren Xiaojun
Published: February 2023

The energy trading problem in smart grids has been of great interest. In this paper, we focus on two problems: 1. Energy sellers’ inaccurate grasp of users’ real needs causes information asymmetry in transactions, making it difficult for energy sellers to develop more satisfactory pricing strategies for users based on those real needs. 2. The uneven variation of user demand causes the grid costs to increase. In this paper, we design a collaborative pricing strategy based on the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average-artificial neural network (Sarima-Ann) and an asymmetric Stackelberg game. Specifically, we propose a dissatisfaction function for users and an incentive function for grid companies to construct a utility function for both parties, which introduces an incentive amount to achieve better results in equilibrating user demand while optimizing the transaction utility. In addition, we constructed a demand fluctuation function based on user demand data and introduced it into the game model to predict the demand by Sarima-Ann, which achieves better prediction accuracy. Finally, through simulation experiments, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our scheme in balancing demand and improving utility, and the superiority of our Sarima-Ann model in terms of forecasting accuracy. Specifically, the peak reduction can reach 94.1% and the total transaction utility increase can reach 4.6 × 107, and better results can be achieved by adjusting the incentive rate. Our Sarima-Ann model improves accuracy by 64.95% over Arima and 64.47% over Sarima under MAE metric evaluation, and also shows superior accuracy under other metrics evaluation.
Study of Propeller Vortex Characteristics under Loading Conditions
Authors: Yu Jiawei , Zhou Bo , Liu Hui , Han Xiaoshuang , Hu Guobiao , Zhang Teng
Published: February 2023

Marine load is an important factor affecting propeller propulsion efficiency, and the study of the wake evolution mechanism under different conditions is an essential part of the propeller equipment design, which needs to meet the requirements of complex engineering. Based on the large eddy simulation (LES) method, the wake instability characteristics are researched with the hydrodynamic load and wake dynamics theory, and the vortices composition and evolution mechanism under various load conditions are analyzed. Meanwhile, the propeller wake using the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) and LES methods is numerically simulated and compared. In addition, a comparison between a simulation and an experiment is carried out. The vortices evolution is described by dimensionless values of the velocity, pressure field, and vorticity field. The breaking and reassembling of different vortices are discussed. The results show that the pitch of the helicoidal tip vortices is larger under light loading conditions with high advance coefficients, and the wake is more stable, in contrast, which is smaller and the vortices break down earlier. By comparison, the topology of the vortices system is more complex under the low advance coefficient. Considering the interference effect between adjacent tip vortices, the energy dissipation is accelerated, resulting in the increased instability of vortices.
The Role of the Hidden Color Channel in Some Interesting Dibaryon Candidates
Authors: Dai Lianrong , Wang Yuhang , Chen Langning , Zhang Tiange
Published: February 2023

Nowadays, exploring dibaryon candidates has attracted much attention, both theoretically and experimentally. It is important to find a reasonable model to predict the possible dibaryon candidates. The chiral SU(3) quark model is just one of the most successful models, with which we can reasonably explain the experimental binding energies of baryon’s ground state and the properties of deuteron, NN and YN scattering processes. By utilizing the same set of model parameters, we predicted the nonstrange d* dibaryon with a binding energy of 84MeV, which is consistent with a recent experiment in which we also found that the hidden color (CC) channel plays an important role in forming this bound state. Due to the theoretical investigation of the CC channel being scarce for dibaryons, we explore other possible and interesting dibaryon candidates in the present work. According to the symmetry properties, we chose six interesting candidates, including strangeness 0,−1,−5,−6 systems. All the hidden color wave functions were built, and the spin-flavor-color matrix elements were systematically evaluated. Then, we applied these obtained matrix elements to further dynamically solve the corresponding resonating group method’s equation in a coupled-channel calculation. The results show that the coupling to the CC channel plays an significant role in forming each spin S = 3 state, where tensor coupling is also included and has an obvious effect in forming each S = 0 state. The present work is significant in helping us to acquire deeper understanding of the effects of the hidden color channel and QCD phenomenology.
Fractional Multiplicative Bullen-Type Inequalities for Multiplicative Differentiable Functions
Authors: Boulares Hamid , Meftah Badreddine , Moumen Abdelkader , Shafqat Ramsha , Saber Hicham , Alraqad Tariq , Ali Ekram E.
Published: February 2023

Various scholars have lately employed a wide range of strategies to resolve specific types of symmetrical fractional differential equations. In this paper, we propose a new fractional identity for multiplicatively differentiable functions; based on this identity, we establish some new fractional multiplicative Bullen-type inequalities for multiplicative differentiable convex functions. Some applications of the obtained results are given.
Specialized DNA Structures Act as Genomic Beacons for Integration by Evolutionarily Diverse Retroviruses
Authors: Kohio Hinissan P. , Ajoge Hannah O. , Coleman Macon D. , Ndashimye Emmanuel , Gibson Richard M. , Arts Eric J. , Barr Stephen D.
Published: February 2023

Retroviral integration site targeting is not random and plays a critical role in expression and long-term survival of the integrated provirus. To better understand the genomic environment surrounding retroviral integration sites, we performed a meta-analysis of previously published integration site data from evolutionarily diverse retroviruses, including new experimental data from HIV-1 subtypes A, B, C and D. We show here that evolutionarily divergent retroviruses exhibit distinct integration site profiles with strong preferences for integration near non-canonical B-form DNA (non-B DNA). We also show that in vivo-derived HIV-1 integration sites are significantly more enriched in transcriptionally silent regions and transcription-silencing non-B DNA features of the genome compared to in vitro-derived HIV-1 integration sites. Integration sites from individuals infected with HIV-1 subtype A, B, C or D viruses exhibited different preferences for common genomic and non-B DNA features. In addition, we identified several integration site hotspots shared between different HIV-1 subtypes, all of which were located in the non-B DNA feature slipped DNA. Together, these data show that although evolutionarily divergent retroviruses exhibit distinct integration site profiles, they all target non-B DNA for integration. These findings provide new insight into how retroviruses integrate into genomes for long-term survival.
Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus Activates Integrated Stress Response Pathway and Induces Stress Granules to Regulate Virus Replication
Authors: Ramnani Barkha , Powell Shelby , Shetty Adarsh G. , Manivannan Praveen , Hibbard Brian R. , Leaman Douglas W. , Malathi Krishnamurthy
Published: February 2023

Virus infection activates integrated stress response (ISR) and stress granule (SG) formation and viruses counteract by interfering with SG assembly, suggesting an important role in antiviral defense. The infection of fish cells by Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus (VHSV), activates the innate immune recognition pathway and the production of type I interferon (IFN). However, the mechanisms by which VHSV interacts with ISR pathway regulating SG formation is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that fish cells respond to heat shock, oxidative stress and VHSV infection by forming SG that localized key SG marker, Ras GTPase-activating protein (SH3 domain)-binding protein 1 (G3BP1). We show that PKR-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), but not (dsRNA)-dependent protein kinase (PKR), is required for VHSV-induced SG formation. Furthermore, in VHSV Ia infected cells, PERK activity is required for IFN production, antiviral signaling and viral replication. SG formation required active virus replication as individual VHSV Ia proteins or inactive virus did not induce SG. Cells lacking G3BP1 produced increased IFN, antiviral genes and viral mRNA, however viral protein synthesis and viral titers were reduced. We show a critical role of the activation of ISR pathway and SG formation highlighting a novel role of G3BP1 in regulating VHSV protein translation and replication.
Single-Center Experience in Detecting Influenza Virus, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 at the Emergency Department
Authors: Nairz Manfred , Todorovic Theodora , Gehrer Clemens M. , Grubwieser Philipp , Burkert Francesco , Zimmermann Martina , Trattnig Kristina , Klotz Werner , Theurl Igor , Bellmann-Weiler Rosa , Weiss Günter
Published: February 2023

Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on respiratory tract swabs has become the gold standard for sensitive and specific detection of influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this retrospective analysis, we report on the successive implementation and routine use of multiplex RT-PCR testing for patients admitted to the Internal Medicine Emergency Department (ED) at a tertiary care center in Western Austria, one of the hotspots in the early coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Europe. Our description focuses on the use of the Cepheid® Xpert® Xpress closed RT-PCR system in point-of-care testing (POCT). Our indications for RT-PCR testing changed during the observation period: From the cold season 2016/2017 until the cold season 2019/2020, we used RT-PCR to diagnose influenza or RSV infection in patients with fever and/or respiratory symptoms. Starting in March 2020, we used the RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 and a multiplex version for the combined detection of all these three respiratory viruses to also screen subjects who did not present with symptoms of infection but needed in-hospital medical treatment for other reasons. Expectedly, the switch to a more liberal RT-PCR test strategy resulted in a substantial increase in the number of tests. Nevertheless, we observed an immediate decline in influenza virus and RSV detections in early 2020 that coincided with public SARS-CoV-2 containment measures. In contrast, the extensive use of the combined RT-PCR test enabled us to monitor the re-emergence of influenza and RSV detections, including asymptomatic cases, at the end of 2022 when COVID-19 containment measures were no longer in place. Our analysis of PCR results for respiratory viruses from a real-life setting at an ED provides valuable information on the epidemiology of those infections over several years, their contribution to morbidity and need for hospital admission, the risk for nosocomial introduction of such infection into hospitals from asymptomatic carriers, and guidance as to how general precautions and prophylactic strategies affect the dynamics of those infections.
Non-Lethal Detection of Ranavirus in Fish
Authors: Coutinho Catarina D. , Ford Charlotte E. , Trafford Joseph D. , Duarte Ana , Rebelo Rui , Rosa Gonçalo M.
Published: February 2023

Emergent infectious diseases have an increasing impact on both farmed animals and wildlife. The ability to screen for pathogens is critical for understanding host–pathogen dynamics and informing better management. Ranavirus is a pathogen of concern, associated with disease outbreaks worldwide, affecting a broad range of fish, amphibian, and reptile hosts, but research has been limited. The traditional screening of internal tissues, such as the liver, has been regarded as the most effective for detecting and quantifying Ranavirus. However, such methodology imposes several limitations from ethical and conservation standpoints. Non-lethal sampling methods of viral detection were explored by comparing the efficacy of both buccal swabbing and fin clipping. The study was conducted on two Iberian, threatened freshwater fish (Iberochondrostoma lusitanicum and Cobitis paludica), and all samples were screened using qPCR. While for C. paludica both methods were reliable in detecting Ranavirus, on I. lusitanicum, there was a significantly higher detection rate in buccal swabs than in fin tissue. This study, therefore, reports that fin clipping may yield false Ranavirus negatives when in small-bodied freshwater fish. Overall, buccal swabbing is found to be good as an alternative to more invasive procedures, which is of extreme relevance, particularly when dealing with a threatened species.
A Systematic Role of Metabolomics, Metabolic Pathways, and Chemical Metabolism in Lung Cancer
Authors: Kannampuzha Sandra , Mukherjee Anirban , Wanjari Uddesh , Gopalakrishnan Abilash , Murali Reshma , Namachivayam Arunraj , Renu Kaviyarasi , Dey Abhijit , Vellingiri Balachandar , Madhyastha Harishkumar , Ganesan Raja
Published: February 2023

Lung cancer (LC) is considered as one of the leading causes of cancer-associated mortalities. Cancer cells’ reprogrammed metabolism results in changes in metabolite concentrations, which can be utilized to identify a distinct metabolic pattern or fingerprint for cancer detection or diagnosis. By detecting different metabolic variations in the expression levels of LC patients, this will help and enhance early diagnosis methods as well as new treatment strategies. The majority of patients are identified at advanced stages after undergoing a number of surgical procedures or diagnostic testing, including the invasive procedures. This could be overcome by understanding the mechanism and function of differently regulated metabolites. Significant variations in the metabolites present in the different samples can be analyzed and used as early biomarkers. They could also be used to analyze the specific progression and type as well as stages of cancer type making it easier for the treatment process. The main aim of this review article is to focus on rewired metabolic pathways and the associated metabolite alterations that can be used as diagnostic and therapeutic targets in lung cancer diagnosis as well as treatment strategies.
THEME: “Vaccines and Vaccine Adjuvants/Immunomodulators for Infectious Diseases”
Authors: Retnakumar Sruthi Vijaya , Bonam Srinivasa Reddy , Hu Haitao , Bayry Jagadeesh
Published: February 2023

The discovery of vaccines has enabled the successful prevention of many deadly infectious diseases, decreased the overall mortality rate, and improved life expectancy worldwide [...]
The Interferon-Gamma Release Assay versus the Tuberculin Skin Test in the Diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection in BCG-Vaccinated Children and Adolescents Exposed or Not Exposed to Contagious TB
Authors: Druszczynska Magdalena , Seweryn Michal , Wawrocki Sebastian , Pankowska Anna , Godkowicz Magdalena , Kowalewska-Pietrzak Magdalena
Published: February 2023

Background: Children have an increased risk of developing active tuberculosis (TB) after exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb), and they are more likely to develop the most severe forms of TB. Rapid diagnosis and treatment of latent M.tb infection (LTBI) is essential to lessen the devastating consequences of TB in children. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate TST (tuberculin skin test) and IGRA (interferon-gamma release assay) utility in identifying LTBI in a cohort of Bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG)-vaccinated Polish children and adolescents exposed or not exposed to contagious TB. In addition, we asked whether quantitative assessment of IGRA results could be valuable in predicting active TB disease. Results: Of the 235 recruited volunteers, 89 (38%) were TST-positive (TST+), 74 (32%) were IGRA-positive (IGRA+), and 62 (26%) were both TST+ and IGRA+. The frequency of TST positivity was significantly higher in the group with (59%) than without TB contact (18%). The percentage of TST+ subjects increased with age from 36% in the youngest children (<2 years) to 47% in the oldest group (>10 years). All positive IGRA results were found solely in the group of children with TB contact. There was a significant increase in the rate of positive IGRA results with age, from 9% in the youngest to 48% in the oldest group. The 10 mm TST cutoff showed good sensitivity and specificity in both TB exposed and nonexposed children and was associated with excellent negative predictive value, especially among nonexposed volunteers. Mean IFN-γ concentrations in IGRA cultures were significantly higher in the group of LTBI compared to the children with active TB disease, both TST+ and TST−. Conclusions: Both TST and IGRA can be used as screening tests for BCG-vaccinated children and adolescents exposed to contagious TB.
Correction: Li et al. Immunogenicity of Recombinant-Deficient Lactobacillus casei with Complementary Plasmid Expressing Alanine Racemase Gene and Core Neutralizing Epitope Antigen against Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus. Vaccines 2021, 9, 1084
Authors: Li Fengsai , Wang Xiaona , Fan Xiaolong , Sui Ling , Zhang Hailin , Li Yue , Zhou Han , Wang Li , Qiao Xinyuan , Tang Lijie , Li Yijing
Published: February 2023

In the original publication [...]
Lactiplantibacillus argentoratensis and Candida tropicalis Isolated from the Gastrointestinal Tract of Fish Exhibited Inhibitory Effects against Pathogenic Bacteria of Nile Tilapia
Authors: Siangpro Noppadon , Chuakrut Songkran , Sirimanapong Wanna , Tanasupawat Somboon , Phongsopitanun Wongsakorn , Meksiriporn Bunyarit , Boonnorat Jarungwit , Sarin Siripun , Kucharoenphaibul Siriwat , Jutakanoke Rumpa
Published: February 2023

Nile tilapia is one of the most consumed farmed fish in the world. The outbreak of pathogenic bacterial diseases causes high mortality rates and economic losses in Nile tilapia farming. Antibiotic administrations are commonly utilized to inhibit and prevent bacterial infections. However, antibiotics are expensive and cause serious concerns for antibiotic resistance in fish that can be potentially transferred to humans. As an alternative solution, probiotics can be used to prevent infection of pathogenic bacteria in fish. In this work, both bacteria and yeast were isolated from fish gastrointestinal tracts and their inhibitory activity against Nile tilapia pathogenic bacteria was evaluated, as well as other probiotic properties. In this study, 66 bacteria and 176 acid tolerant yeasts were isolated from fish gastrointestinal tracts. Of all isolated microorganisms, 39 bacterial and 15 yeast isolates with inhibitory effect against pathogens were then examined for their probiotic properties (acidic and bile salt resistance, adhesion potential, and biofilm formation), formation of antibacterial factor survival rate under simulated gastrointestinal fluid, and safety evaluation. AT8/5 bacterial isolate demonstrated probiotic properties and the highest inhibition against all 54 tested pathogens while YON3/2 yeast isolate outperformed the inhibitory effect among all yeast isolates. These two probiotic isolates were further identified by 16S rDNA and the D1/D2 domain of 26S rDNA sequence analysis for bacterial and yeast identification, respectively. AT8/5 and YON3/2 showed the highest similarity to Lactiplantibacillus argentoratensis and Candida tropicalis, respectively. This is the first report on isolated L. argentoratensis and C. tropicalis with antipathogenic bacteria of Nile tilapia properties. Collectively, AT8/5 and YON3/2 could be potentially used as promising alternatives to existing antibiotic methods to prevent pathogenic bacteria infection in Nile tilapia farming.
Antioxidant Effect of a Dietary Supplement Containing Fermentative S-Acetyl-Glutathione and Silybin in Dogs with Liver Disease
Authors: Martello Elisa , Perondi Francesca , Bisanzio Donal , Lippi Ilaria , Meineri Giorgia , Gabriele Valeria
Published: February 2023

Oxidative stress is often involved in liver disease progression. Liver is the primary site for the synthesis of glutathione (GSH), the major intracellular antioxidant. GSH erythrocyte concentration can decrease in case of liver damage. So, the use of food supplements with antioxidant capacity has been reported in the veterinary literature. In this case–control study, we tested a new supplement containing S-acetyl-glutathione (SAG), silybin, and other antioxidant ingredients in dogs affected by liver disease. After two weeks of supplement administration, we were able to report a significant increase in the level of erythrocyte GSH in the treated (TRT) group, nearly reaching the physiological limit at the end of the study. In addition, most of the key liver parameters are significantly reduced in the TRT group by the end of the trial. The results of this study support the effectiveness of the tested complementary feed, which may be helpful in managing dogs with liver conditions.
Simple Statistical Models for Predicting Overpressure Due to CO2 and Low-Salinity Waste-Fluid Injection into Deep Saline Formations
Authors: Ansari Esmail , Holubnyak Eugene , Hasiuk Franciszek
Published: February 2023

Deep saline aquifers have been used for waste-fluid disposal for decades and are the proposed targets for large-scale CO2 storage to mitigate CO2 concentration in the atmosphere. Due to relatively limited experience with CO2 injection in deep saline formations and given that the injection targets for CO2 sometimes are the same as waste-fluid disposal formations, it could be beneficial to model and compare both practices and learn from the waste-fluid disposal industry. In this paper, we model CO2 injection in the Patterson Field, which has been proposed as a site for storage of 50 Mt of industrial CO2 over 25 years. We propose general models that quickly screen the reservoir properties and calculate pressure changes near and far from the injection wellbore, accounting for variable reservoir properties. The reservoir properties we investigated were rock compressibility, injection rate, vertical-to-horizontal permeability ratio, average reservoir permeability and porosity, reservoir temperature and pressure, and the injectant total dissolved solids (TDS) in cases of waste-fluid injection. We used experimental design to select and perform simulation runs, performed a sensitivity analysis to identify the important variables on pressure build-up, and then fit a regression model to the simulation runs to obtain simple proxy models for changes in average reservoir pressure and bottomhole pressure. The CO2 injection created more pressure compared to saline waste-fluids, when similar mass was injected. However, we found a more significant pressure buildup at the caprock-reservoir interface and lower pressure buildup at the bottom of the reservoir when injecting CO2 compared with waste-fluid injection.
Assessment of Aquifer Recharge Potential Using Remote Sensing, GIS and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) Combined with Hydrochemical and Isotope Data (Tamassari Basin, Burkina Faso)
Authors: Ki Issan , Chakroun Hedia , Koussoube Youssouf , Zouari Kamel
Published: February 2023

In the Tamassari basin, the agricultural population is highly dependent on groundwater resources for its socioeconomic development. However, the decrease in rainfall in the region since the late 1960s and the demographic pressure on the land are significantly affecting groundwater recharge. In order to exploit this groundwater sustainably, it is necessary to identify potential recharge areas for a better capitalisation of this resource. The objective of this study is to map the recharge potential of the existing aquifers making use of remote sensing and GIS techniques and to make a validation based on chloride and tritium contents in the borehole water. The processing carried out on the Landsat 5 and Landsat 8 images combined with a digital elevation model (ALOS PALSAR), highlight the lithological, linear and topographical characteristics of the study area. In addition, various supervised classification algorithms were used to produce the most accurate land use map. Field campaigns were conducted to validate the thematic maps resulting from the geospatial data processing and to collect water samples for hydrochemical (chloride) and isotopic analysis (tritium). The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was used to derive recharge factors weights. The resulting recharge map shows a perfect agreement between the recharge classes derived from spatial modelling and the tritium isotope analyses. This was not the case with the chloride contents, which showed a dispersion over all the recharge areas.
Agricultural Pressures on the Quality of Ground and Surface Waters in Catchments of Artificial Reservoirs
Authors: Lawniczak-Malińska Agnieszka , Nowak Bogumił , Pajewski Kamil
Published: February 2023

Changes in nutrient concentrations in groundwater were investigated to determine the impact of agriculture on water quality in artificial lakes. The study covered three reservoirs in an agricultural area of Wielkopolska (central-western part of Poland). Assessing the agricultural impact required a network of piezometers around the reservoirs, used to determine the degree of groundwater pollution from nutrients supplied to the reservoirs. Moreover, the analysis covered the quality of water in streams flowing into the reservoirs, and in the reservoirs themselves. Field research was conducted every month of the growing season from March to November. The analysis covered land inclination, ground permeability, and soil type. Detailed objectives included: (1) assessment of the agricultural impact on the chemical parameters of ground and surface water quality, and (2) evaluation of the impact of different sources of agricultural pollution on water quality in artificial reservoirs in regards to their management. This study revealed high dynamics of nutrient concentrations, particularly for nitrates and phosphates, in groundwater and surface water. A significant effect of maize cultivation on an increase in nitrate concentrations in the groundwater of the catchment of the Przebędowo Reservoir was evidenced, as well as a substantial effect of the functioning of an animal farm on the quality of groundwaters in the catchment of the Lachotka Reservoir. The nutrient load of agricultural origin in the catchment of the Miedzichowo Reservoir was relatively low. Our study revealed elevated amounts of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, detected more frequently in groundwater than in running waters, which confirms our hypothesis of the importance of groundwater analysis in detecting the source of pollution of the studied lakes. High nutrient concentrations recorded in groundwater leached from arable fields were also observed in the summer period, failing to confirm the hypothesis that the greatest effect of factors would be related to the spring effect of arable fields on water quality (lack of compact vegetation cover, high water level, etc.). Our study also indicated a greater importance of the type of land use than lithology or permeability of deposits.
Internet addiction in teenagers. Symptoms and approaches
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «South Ural State Humanitarian Pedagogical University», Krylov A. P.
Published: February 2023

Nowadays, computer and Internet addictions are becoming a worldwide problem. The article discusses the main symptoms of computer and Internet addiction. Approaches to the correction of conditions caused by computer addiction in adolescents are analyzed.