bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Analysis of Fractional-Order Camassa–Holm and Degasperis–Procesi Models
Authors: Alesemi Meshari
Published: January 2023

This study proposes innovative methods for the time-fractional modified Degasperis–Procesi (mDP) and Camassa–Holm (mCH) models of solitary wave solutions. To formulate the concepts of the homotopy perturbation transform method (HPTM) and Elzaki transform decomposition method (ETDM), we mix the Elzaki transform (ET), homotopy perturbation method (HPM), and Adomian decomposition method (ADM). The Caputo sense is applied to this work. The solutions to a few numerical examples of the modified Degasperis–Procesi (mDP) and Camassa–Holm (mCH) are shown for integer and fractional orders of the issues. The derived and precise solutions are compared using two-dimensional and three-dimensional plots of the solutions, confirming the suggested method’s improved accuracy. Tables are created for each problem to display the suggested approach’s results, precise solutions, and absolute error. These methods provide the iterations as a series of solutions. To show the proposed techniques’ efficiency, we compute the absolute error. It is evident from the estimated values that the approaches are precise and simple and that they can therefore be further extended to linear and nonlinear issues.
Smart Root Search (SRS) in Solving Service Time–Cost Optimization in Cloud Computing Service Composition (STCOCCSC) Problems
Authors: Naseri Narjes Khatoon , Sundararajan Elankovan , Ayob Masri
Published: January 2023

In this paper, the novel heuristic search algorithm called Smart Root Search (SRS) was examined for solving a set of different-sized service time–cost optimization in cloud computing service composition (STCOCCSC) problems, and its performance was compared with those of the ICACRO-C, ICACRO-I, ICA, and Niching PSO algorithms. STCOCCSC is an np-hard problem due to the large number of unique services available as well as the many service providers who provide services with different quality levels. Finding closer-to-optimal solutions supports cloud clients by providing them with higher quality-lower price services. The SRS obtained results proved that the SRS provided 6.74, 11.2, 47.95, and 87.29 percent performance improvement on average to the comparative algorithms, respectively, for all considered five problems. Furthermore, employing symmetry concepts in dividing the problem search space helps the algorithm to avoid premature convergence and any efficiency reduction while facing higher-dimensional search spaces. Due to these achievements, the SRS is a multi-purpose, flexible, and scalable heuristic search algorithm capable of being utilized in various optimization applications.
Orbits of Particles and Photons around Regular Rotating Black Holes and Solitons
Authors: Dymnikova Irina , Dobosz Anna
Published: January 2023

We briefly overview the basic properties and generic behavior of circular equatorial particle orbits and light rings around regular rotating compact objects with dark energy interiors, which are described by regular metrics of the Kerr–Schild class and include rotating black holes and self-gravitating spinning solitons replacing naked singularities. These objects have an internal de Sitter vacuum disk and can have two types of dark interiors, depending on the energy conditions. The first type reduces to the de Sitter disk, the second contains a closed de Sitter surface and an S surface with the de Sitter disk as the bridge and an anisotropic phantom fluid in the regions between the S surface and the disk. In regular geometry, the potentials decrease from V(r)→∞ to their minima, which ensures the existence of the innermost stable photon and particle orbits that are essential for processes of energy extraction occurring within the ergoregions, which for the second type of interiors contain the phantom energy. The innermost orbits provide a diagnostic tool for investigation of dark interiors of de Sitter–Kerr objects. They include light rings which confine these objects and ensure the most informative observational signature for rotating black holes presented by their shadows.
Mild Solutions for the Time-Fractional Navier-Stokes Equations with MHD Effects
Authors: Abuasbeh Kinda , Shafqat Ramsha , Niazi Azmat Ullah Khan , Awadalla Muath
Published: January 2023

Recently, various techniques and methods have been employed by mathematicians to solve specific types of fractional differential equations (FDEs) with symmetric properties. The study focuses on Navier-Stokes equations (NSEs) that involve MHD effects with time-fractional derivatives (FDs). The (NSEs) with time-FDs of order β∈(0,1) are investigated. To facilitate anomalous diffusion in fractal media, mild solutions and Mittag-Leffler functions are used. In Hδ,r, the existence, and uniqueness of local and global mild solutions are proved, as well as the symmetric structure created. Moderate local solutions are provided in Jr. Moreover, the regularity and existence of classical solutions to the equations in Jr. are established and presented.
Extinction and Ergodic Stationary Distribution of COVID-19 Epidemic Model with Vaccination Effects
Authors: Batool Humera , Li Weiyu , Sun Zhonggui
Published: January 2023

Human society always wants a safe environment from pollution and infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, etc. To control COVID-19, we have started the big effort for the discovery of a vaccination of COVID-19. Several biological problems have the aspects of symmetry, and this theory has many applications in explaining the dynamics of biological models. In this research article, we developed the stochastic COVID-19 mathematical model, along with the inclusion of a vaccination term, and studied the dynamics of the disease through the theory of symmetric dynamics and ergodic stationary distribution. The basic reproduction number is evaluated using the equilibrium points of the proposed model. For well-posedness, we also test the given problem for the existence and uniqueness of a non-negative solution. The necessary conditions for eradicating the disease are also analyzed along with the stationary distribution of the proposed model. For the verification of the obtained result, simulations of the model are performed.
Export Trade, Absorptive Capacity, and High-Quality Economic Development in China
Authors: Luo Haiyan , Qu Xiaoe
Published: January 2023

Exports are a crucial driving force of China’s economic growth; however, researchers have yet to verify whether they can effectively improve the high-quality economic development. Based on interprovincial panel data from 2000 to 2019, in this study, we constructed a high-quality economic development indicator system through the entropy weight method, and we adopted the linear regression model and dynamic panel threshold model to empirically test the export trade effect on the high-quality economic development as well as its mechanism. We also probed the impact of the heterogeneous absorptive capacity on the high-quality economic development. According to our research findings, China’s export trade has substantially promoted the high-quality economic development level by, from the viewpoint of the action path, positively influencing the economic, open, and coordination subsystems. The influence of the export trade on the high-quality economic development has a substantial single-threshold effect on the heterogeneous absorptive capacity; that is, when the threshold variables that represent the regional absorptive capacity (the economic level, R&D intensity, and technological gap) are all higher than the threshold value, the export trade has a substantial positive impact on the high-quality economic development level. The research conclusions of this paper provide new ideas for the development of high-quality economic systems as well as a useful reference for China in its formulation of more targeted foreign trade policies.
Significant Biotransformation of Arsenobetaine into Inorganic Arsenic in Mice
Authors: Zhang Jichao , Ye Zijun , Huang Liping , Zhao Qianyu , Dong Kaige , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2023

Arsenic (As) is extremely toxic to living organisms at high concentrations. Arsenobetaine (AsB), confirmed to be a non-toxic form, is the main contributor to As in the muscle tissue of marine fish. However, few studies have investigated the biotransformation and biodegradation of AsB in mammals. In the current study, C57BL/6J mice were fed four different diets, namely, Yangjiang and Zhanjiang fish diets spiked with marine fish muscle containing AsB, and arsenite (As(III)) and arsenate (As(V)) diets spiked with As(III) and As(V), respectively, to investigate the biotransformation and bioaccumulation of AsB in mouse tissues for 42 d. Different diets exhibited different As species distributions, which contributed to varying levels of As bioaccumulation in different tissues. The intestines accumulated the highest level of As, regardless of form, which played a major part in As absorption and distribution in mice. We observed a significant biotransformation of AsB to As(V) following its diet exposure, and the liver, lungs, and spleen of AsB-treated mice showed higher As accumulation levels than those of As(III)- or As(V)-treated mice. Inorganic As showed relatively high accumulation levels in the lungs and spleen after long-term exposure to AsB. Overall, these findings provided strong evidence that AsB undergoes biotransformation to As(V) in mammals, indicating the potential health risk associated with long-term AsB intake in mammals.
Paclitaxel, but Not Cisplatin, Affects Satellite Glial Cells in Dorsal Root Ganglia of Rats with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neurotoxicity
Authors: Pozzi Eleonora , Ballarini Elisa , Rodriguez-Menendez Virginia , Canta Annalisa , Chiorazzi Alessia , Monza Laura , Bossi Mario , Alberti Paola , Malacrida Alessio , Meregalli Cristina , Scuteri Arianna , Cavaletti Guido , Carozzi Valentina Alda
Published: January 2023

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity is one of the most common dose-limiting toxicities of several widely used anticancer drugs such as platinum derivatives (cisplatin) and taxanes (paclitaxel). Several molecular mechanisms related to the onset of neurotoxicity have already been proposed, most of them having the sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and the peripheral nerve fibers as principal targets. In this study we explore chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity beyond the neuronocentric view, investigating the changes induced by paclitaxel (PTX) and cisplatin (CDDP) on satellite glial cells (SGC) in the DRG and their crosstalk. Rats were chronically treated with PTX (10 mg/Kg, 1qwx4) or CDDP (2 mg/Kg 2qwx4) or respective vehicles. Morpho-functional analyses were performed to verify the features of drug-induced peripheral neurotoxicity. Qualitative and quantitative immunohistochemistry, 3D immunofluorescence, immunoblotting, and transmission electron microscopy analyses were also performed to detect alterations in SGCs and their interconnections. We demonstrated that PTX, but not CDDP, produces a strong activation of SGCs in the DRG, by altering their interconnections and their physical contact with sensory neurons. SGCs may act as principal actors in PTX-induced peripheral neurotoxicity, paving the way for the identification of new druggable targets for the treatment and prevention of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity.
Short-Term Exposure Effect of Ambient Fine Particulate Matter, Ozone and Cold Temperature on Emergency Room Visits for Asthma Patients
Authors: Cheng Chun-Gu , Yen Shang-Yih , Hsiao Chih-Chun , Lin Yen-Yue , Chang Yin-Han , Chen Yu-Hsuan , Cheng Chun-An
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: The acute effects of ozone, cold temperature and particulate matter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) in size related to asthma attacks are well known worldwide. The adverse effects of ozone and cold temperature on asthma morbidity in Taiwan are still inconclusive. (2) Methods: This retrospective study included patients who had asthma emergency room visits (ERVs) from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2019 in a regional hospital in Taiwan. The short-term negative effects were estimated using Distributed Lag Non-Linear Models (DLNMs) for the relative risks (RRs) of asthma ERVs associated with PM2.5, ozone and cold temperature exposures within 5 days. (3) Results: There was a significant association between a 10 ppm increase in PM2.5 exposure and asthma ERVs at a 2-day lag (RR 1.166, 95% confidence interval (C.I.): 1.051–1.294). There was a significant association between ozone and asthma ERVs at a 1-day lag (RR 1.179, 95% C.I.: 1.034–1.345). The ambient temperature in cold weather compared with the temperature of minimum asthma ERV showed an RR of 1.214, 95% C.I.: 1.009–1.252 at a 1-day lag. (4) Conclusions: This study provides evidence that short-term exposure to fine suspended particulates, ozone and inverse temperature is associated with asthma exacerbation.
Correction: Angrand et al. Inflammation and Autophagy: A Convergent Point between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)-Related Genetic and Environmental Factors: Focus on Aluminum Adjuvants. Toxics 2022, 10, 518
Authors: Angrand Loïc , Masson Jean-Daniel , Rubio-Casillas Alberto , Nosten-Bertrand Marika , Crépeaux Guillemette
Published: January 2023

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Intraspecific Diversity and Pathogenicity of Bacillus thuringiensis Isolates from an Emetic Illness
Authors: Pheepakpraw Jintana , Kaewkod Thida , Konkit Maytiya , Krongdang Sasiprapa , Jantakee Kanyaluck , Praphruet Rueankaew , Bovonsombut Sakunnee , Panya Aussara , Tragoolpua Yingmanee , Logan Niall A. , Chitov Thararat
Published: January 2023

This study describes an emetic food-borne intoxication associated with a Bacillus cereus group species and the characterization of the bacterial isolates from the incident in aspects of molecular tying, genetic factors, cytotoxicity, and pathogenic mechanisms relating to emetic illness. Through the polyphasic identification approach, all seven isolates obtained from food and clinical samples were identified as Bacillus thuringiensis. According to multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis, intraspecific diversity was found within the B. thuringiensis isolates. Four allelic profiles were found, including two previously known STs (ST8 and ST15) and two new STs (ST2804 and ST2805). All isolates harbored gene fragments located in the cereulide synthetase (ces) gene cluster. The heat-treated culture supernatants of three emetic B. thuringiensis isolates, FC2, FC7, and FC8, caused vacuolation and exhibited toxicity to Caco-2 cells, with CC50 values of 56.57, 72.17, and 79.94 µg/mL, respectively. The flow cytometry with the Annexin V/PI assay revealed both apoptosis and necrosis mechanisms, but necrosis was the prominent mechanism that caused Caco-2 cell destruction by FC2, the most toxic isolate.
The Effects of Incremental Doses of Aflatoxin B1 on In Vitro Ruminal Nutrient Digestibility and Fermentation Profile of a Lactating Dairy Cow Diet in a Dual-Flow Continuous Culture System
Authors: Amaro Felipe Xavier , Jiang Yun , Arriola Kathy , Pupo Matheus R. , Agustinho Bruna C. , Bennett Sarah L. , Vinyard James R. , Tomaz Lais , Lobo Richard R. , Pech-Cervantes Andres , Arce-Cordero Jose A. , Faciola Antonio P. , Adesogan Adegbola Tolulope , Vyas Diwakar
Published: January 2023

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a mycotoxin known to impair human and animal health. It is also believed to have a deleterious effect on ruminal nutrient digestibility under in vitro batch culture systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of increasing the dose of AFB1 on ruminal dry matter and nutrient digestibility, fermentation profile, and N flows using a dual-flow continuous culture system fed a diet formulated for lactating dairy cows. Eight fermenter vessels were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with 10 d periods (7 d adaptation and 3 d sample collection). Treatments were randomly applied to fermenters on diet DM basis: (1) 0 μg of AFB1/kg of DM (Control); (2) 50 μg of AFB1/kg of DM (AF50); (3) 100 μg of AFB1/kg of DM (AF100); and (4) 150 μg of AFB1/kg of DM (AF150). Treatments did not affect nutrient digestibility, fermentation, and N flows. Aflatoxin B1 concentration in ruminal fluid increased with dose but decreased to undetectable levels after 4 h post-dosing. In conclusion, adding incremental doses of AFB1 did not affect ruminal fermentation, digestibility of nutrients, and N flows in a dual-flow continuous culture system fed diets formulated for lactating dairy cows.
Antifungal and Antibacterial Activities of Isolated Marine Compounds
Authors: Thawabteh Amin Mahmood , Swaileh Zain , Ammar Marwa , Jaghama Weam , Yousef Mai , Karaman Rafik , A. Bufo Sabino , Scrano Laura
Published: January 2023

To combat the ineffectiveness of currently available pharmaceutical medications, caused by the emergence of increasingly resistant bacterial and fungal strains, novel antibacterial and antifungal medications are urgently needed. Novel natural compounds with antimicrobial activities can be obtained by exploring underexplored habitats such as the world’s oceans. The oceans represent the largest ecosystem on earth, with a high diversity of organisms. Oceans have received some attention in the past few years, and promising compounds with antimicrobial activities were isolated from marine organisms such as bacteria, fungi, algae, sea cucumbers, sea sponges, etc. This review covers 56 antifungal and 40 antibacterial compounds from marine organisms. These compounds are categorized according to their chemical structure groups, including polyketides, alkaloids, ribosomal peptides, and terpenes, and their organismal origin. The review provides the minimum inhibitory concentration MIC values and the bacterial/fungal strains against which these chemical compounds show activity. This study shows strong potential for witnessing the development of new novel antimicrobial drugs from these natural compounds isolated and evaluated for their antimicrobial activities.
A Computational Inter-Species Study on Safrole Phase I Metabolism-Dependent Bioactivation: A Mechanistic Insight into the Study of Possible Differences among Species
Authors: Pedroni Lorenzo , Louisse Jochem , Punt Ans , Dorne Jean Lou C. M. , Dall’Asta Chiara , Dellafiora Luca
Published: January 2023

Safrole, a 162.2 Da natural compound belonging to the alkenylbenzenes class, is classified as a possible carcinogen to humans by IARC (group IIB) and has proven to be genotoxic and carcinogenic to rodents. Despite its use as a food or feed additive, it is forbidden in many countries due to its documented toxicity; yet, it is still broadly present within food and feed and is particularly abundant in spices, herbs and essential oils. Specifically, safrole may exert its toxicity upon bioactivation to its proximate carcinogen 1′-hydroxy-safrole via specific members of the cytochrome P450 protein family with a certain inter/intra-species variability. To investigate this variability, an in-silico workflow based on molecular modelling, docking and molecular dynamics has been successfully applied. This work highlighted the mechanistic basis underpinning differences among humans, cats, chickens, goats, sheep, dogs, mice, pigs, rats and rabbits. The chosen metric to estimate the likeliness of formation of 1′-hydroxy-safrole by the species-specific cytochrome P450 under investigation allowed for the provision of a knowledge-based ground to rationally design and prioritise further experiments and deepen the current understanding of alkenylbenzenes bioactivation and CYPs mechanics. Both are crucial for a more informed framework of analysis for safrole toxicity.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Transplantology in 2022
Authors:   Transplantology Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Analyzing the Trends of COVID-19 and Human Activity Intensity in Malaysia
Authors: Chin Wei Chien Benny , Chan Chun-Hsiang
Published: January 2023

COVID-19 has struck the world with multiple waves. Each wave was caused by a variant and presented different peaks and baselines. This made the identification of waves with the time series of the cases a difficult task. Human activity intensities may affect the occurrence of an outbreak. We demonstrated a metric of time series, namely log-moving-average-ratio (LMAR), to identify the waves and directions of the changes in the disease cases and check-ins (MySejahtera). Based on the detected waves and changes, we explore the relationship between the two. Using the stimulus-organism-response model with our results, we presented a four-stage model: (1) government-imposed movement restrictions, (2) revenge travel, (3) self-imposed movement reduction, and (4) the new normal. The inverse patterns between check-ins and pandemic waves suggested that the self-imposed movement reduction would naturally happen and would be sufficient for a smaller epidemic wave. People may spontaneously be aware of the severity of epidemic situations and take appropriate disease prevention measures to reduce the risks of exposure and infection. In summary, LMAR is more sensitive to the waves and could be adopted to characterize the association between travel willingness and confirmed disease cases.
Accuracy of Three Serological Techniques for the Diagnosis of Imported Schistosomiasis in Real Clinical Practice: Not All in the Same Boat
Authors: Luzón-García María Pilar , Cabeza-Barrera María Isabel , Lozano-Serrano Ana Belén , Soriano-Pérez Manuel Jesús , Castillo-Fernández Nerea , Vázquez-Villegas José , Borrego-Jiménez Jaime , Salas-Coronas Joaquín
Published: January 2023

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease despite of being a major public health problem affecting nearly 240 million people in the world. Due to the migratory flow from endemic countries to Western countries, an increasing number of cases is being diagnosed in non-endemic areas, generally in migrants or people visiting these areas. Serology is the recommended method for screening and diagnosis of schistosomiasis in migrants from endemic regions. However, serological techniques have a highly variable sensitivity. The aim of this study was to evaluate retrospectively the sensitivity of three different serological tests used in real clinical practice for the screening and diagnosis of imported schistosomiasis in sub-Saharan migrant patients, using the detection of schistosome eggs in urine, faeces or tissues as the gold standard. We evaluated three different serological techniques in 405 sub-Saharan patients with confirmed schistosomiasis treated between 2004 and 2022: an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), an indirect haemagglutination assay (IHA) and an immunochromatographic test (ICT). The overall sensitivity values obtained with the different techniques were: 44.4% for IHA, 71.2% for ELISA and 94.7% for ICT, respectively. According to species, ICT showed the highest sensitivity (S. haematobium: 94%, S. mansoni: 93.3%; and S. intercalatum/guineensis: 100%). In conclusion, our study shows that Schistosoma ICT has the best performance in real clinical practice, when compared to ELISA and IHA, in both S. mansoni and S. haematobium infections.
Activated Chicken Gamma Delta T Cells Are Involved in Protective Immunity against Marek’s Disease
Authors: Matsuyama-Kato Ayumi , Shojadoost Bahram , Boodhoo Nitish , Raj Sugandha , Alizadeh Mohammadali , Fazel Fatemeh , Fletcher Charlotte , Zheng Jiayu , Gupta Bhavya , Abdul-Careem Mohamed Faizal , Plattner Brandon L. , Behboudi Shahriar , Sharif Shayan
Published: January 2023

Gamma delta (γδ) T cells play a significant role in the prevention of viral infection and tumor surveillance in mammals. Although the involvement of γδ T cells in Marek’s disease virus (MDV) infection has been suggested, their detailed contribution to immunity against MDV or the progression of Marek’s disease (MD) remains unknown. In the current study, T cell receptor (TCR)γδ-activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were infused into recipient chickens and their effects were examined in the context of tumor formation by MDV and immunity against MDV. We demonstrated that the adoptive transfer of TCRγδ-activated PBMCs reduced virus replication in the lungs and tumor incidence in MDV-challenged chickens. Infusion of TCRγδ-activated PBMCs induced IFN-γ-producing γδ T cells at 10 days post-infection (dpi), and degranulation activity in circulating γδ T cell and CD8α+ γδ T cells at 10 and 21 dpi in MDV-challenged chickens. Additionally, the upregulation of IFN-γ and granzyme A gene expression at 10 dpi was significant in the spleen of the TCRγδ-activated PBMCs-infused and MDV-challenged group compared to the control group. Taken together, our results revealed that TCRγδ stimulation promotes the effector function of chicken γδ T cells, and these effector γδ T cells may be involved in protection against MD.
Incipient Parallel Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 Deltacron Variant in South Brazil
Authors: Sant’Anna Fernando Hayashi , Finger Andreis Tiago , Salvato Richard Steiner , Muterle Varela Ana Paula , Comerlato Juliana , Gregianini Tatiana Schäffer , Barcellos Regina Bones , de Souza Godinho Fernanda Marques , Resende Paola Cristina , da Luz Wallau Gabriel , y Castro Thaís Regina , Casarin Bruna Campestrini , de Almeida Vieira Andressa , Schwarzbold Alexandre Vargas , de Arruda Trindade Priscila , Tumioto Giannini Gabriela Luchiari , Freese Luana , Bristot Giovana , Brasil Carolina Serpa , de Oliveira Rocha Bruna , Martins Paloma Bortolini , de Oliveira Francine Hehn , van Oosterhout Cock , Wendland Eliana
Published: January 2023

With the coexistence of multiple lineages and increased international travel, recombination and gene flow are likely to become increasingly important in the adaptive evolution of SARS-CoV-2. These processes could result in genetic introgression and the incipient parallel evolution of multiple recombinant lineages. However, identifying recombinant lineages is challenging, and the true extent of recombinant evolution in SARS-CoV-2 may be underestimated. This study describes the first SARS-CoV-2 Deltacron recombinant case identified in Brazil. We demonstrate that the recombination breakpoint is at the beginning of the Spike gene. The 5′ genome portion (circa 22 kb) resembles the AY.101 (Delta), and the 3′ genome portion (circa 8 kb nucleotides) is most similar to the BA.1.1 (Omicron). Furthermore, evolutionary genomic analyses indicate that the new strain emerged after a single recombination event between lineages of diverse geographical locations in December 2021 in South Brazil. This Deltacron, AYBA-RS, is one of the dozens of recombinants described in 2022. The submission of only four sequences in the GISAID database suggests that this lineage had a minor epidemiological impact. However, the recent emergence of this and other Deltacron recombinant lineages (XD, XF, and XS) suggests that gene flow and recombination may play an increasingly important role in the COVID-19 pandemic. We explain the evolutionary and population genetic theory that supports this assertion, concluding that this stresses the need for continued genomic surveillance. This monitoring is vital for countries where multiple variants are present, as well as for countries that receive significant inbound international travel.
Efficacy of the Second COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Dose in the Elderly
Authors: Mattiuzzi Camilla , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: January 2023

Background: We analyzed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine efficacy in older persons who received the second booster compared to unvaccinated people and those receiving only a single COVID-19 vaccine booster. Methods: We collected information on vaccine efficacy from the ongoing Italian nationwide COVID-19 vaccination campaign in subjects aged 80 years or older from official data published by the Italian National Institute of Health. Results: The second vaccine booster maintained high effectiveness against adverse COVID-19 outcomes such as hospitalization, intensive care unit admission and death (i.e., between 77 and 86%), and also showed around 10% higher efficacy than the single booster. Nonetheless, the efficacy of the second vaccine booster declined over time, decreasing by 33–46% when assessed at >120 days from administration. Conclusions: The results of our ad interim analysis of the ongoing Italian nationwide COVID-19 vaccination campaign suggest that regular boosting with COVID-19 vaccines may be advisable in older persons.
Lateral Approach and Plate Rod Sliding Humeral Osteotomy in Dogs—A Short Case Series
Authors: McCartney William , Ober Ciprian , Benito Maria
Published: January 2023

Five dogs of different breeds and ages were diagnosed with medial compartment disease of the elbow (MCDE). To resolve the condition, a modified technique using a lateral approach and plate/rod sliding humeral osteotomy (SHO) was considered. All dogs recovered uneventfully after surgery. There were no major complications, and all dogs were significantly improved compared to pre-operative condition. This novel technique of adding a pin, based on the alteration of the original technique, optimized resistance to fixation failure. An additional benefit was that the lateral approach was surgically familiar and easily allowed bone grafting. All five dogs treated with the novel approach had improved scores for pain and lameness. This study showed that SHO was more stable and less technically demanding with the addition of an intramedullary pin. This is the first report of a lateral approach and plate rod sliding humeral osteotomy to treat MCDE in dogs.
Porous Biochar Materials for Sustainable Water Treatment: Synthesis, Modification, and Application
Authors: Li Ruichenzhi , Wu Yujiao , Lou Xujun , Li Haorui , Cheng Jing , Shen Bin , Qin Lei
Published: January 2023

In the current world, the increasingly developed industries of mankind have caused huge pollution to the earth on which we live. And the water resources, which are the source of human life, are also being seriously polluted and destroyed. Water pollution has become an urgent need to deal with in today’s world. In order to achieve sustainable development, people are constantly using new materials in the process of water treatment. Biochar material is one of them. In the thermochemical process, biomass produces a common by-product coke, which is also called biochar as a result of biomass decomposition. Due to the low price and large specific surface area which can reach over 1000 m2·g−1, it has many applications and advantages in catalysis, adsorption, fuel cell, soil improvement, etc., and has a wide range of application prospects. Therefore, effectively prepared and used biochar in water treatment has become a method to improve the efficiency and economic benefits of thermochemical processes. In this overview, we first introduced the preparation methods of different new types of biomass materials, we then classified and discussed the various modification strategies, and finally discussed the application potential of biochar material for wastewater treatment.
Nutrients’ Removal from Mariculture Wastewater by Algal–Bacterial Aggregates Developed from Spirulina platensis
Authors: Fu Xiaohua , Jiang Qianrong , Yang Xiaojing , Liu Lihong , Liu Li , Li Jingshi , Li Siyang , Luo Qijin , Chen Jianyu , Zhao Ziwen , Liu Gang
Published: January 2023

As an important alternative to alleviate the shortage of wild fishery resources, mariculture is facing increasing challenges on the wastewater treatment, mainly due to the salinity brought from seawater and low nutrient concentration. In this study, Spirulina platensis (S. platensis) was adopted as the target algae stain for synthetic mariculture wastewater treatment, which exhibited excellent adaptability to high-saline wastewater during a 40 days’ adaptive culture. Then, the microalgae stain was inoculated into photo-bioreactors with different uplift airflow velocity (UAV) to achieve microalgal aggregation. After 10 days of pre-cultivation and a 30-day granulation process, the maximum nutrient removal rates by S. platensis were 86.5% of TN (to 3.4 mg/L), 98.1% of TP (to 0.1 mg/L) and 95.8% of DOC (to 5.5 mg/L), with 3.5 g/L of biomass content in synthetic wastewater. Analysis of phosphorus and EPS content showed that higher protein content in tightly bound EPS and enhanced P accumulation was accompanied with the microalgal aggregation processes, and P was mainly distributed in the residual rather than the EPS part of microalgal aggregates, indicating that the development of aggregates from suspension S. platensis would benefit not only biomass separation, but also phosphorus recovery, being a potential treatment for simultaneously removing nutrients and recovering mariculture wastewater.
Collaborative Watershed Modeling as Stakeholder Engagement Tool for Science-Based Water Policy Assessment in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Cho Se Jong , Klemz Claudio , Barreto Samuel , Raepple Justus , Bracale Henrique , Acosta Eileen Andrea , Rogéliz-Prada Carlos Andres , Ciasca Bruna S.
Published: January 2023

This study describes a collaborative modeling process deployed at the Cantareira Water Supply System (CWSS) in São Paulo City Metropolitan Area, Brazil. The CWSS faces challenges for meeting the increasing water demand, while land-use and climate change and their combined effect on its water cycle and balance have created a complex water resources management problem. Through a stakeholder engagement process—involving scientists and policymakers, the water utility company, and state administration—environmental simulation models were developed to elicit and represent multiple environmental, economic, and policy perspectives, developing a mutual language to communicate and establish common goals of water resources management. Study outputs include estimation of biophysical and economic benefits associated with prioritized native vegetation restoration activities in the source watersheds. These outputs are deployed in support of landscape planning and the decision process integrating multiple stakeholder perspectives in São Paulo state administration, the water utility company, and municipalities.
Assessment of the Potential Flood Hazard and Risk in the Event of Disasters of Hydrotechnical Facilities—The Exemplary Case of Cracow (Poland)
Authors: Grela Jerzy
Published: January 2023

The article presents an analysis of the potential consequences for Cracow of failure of dams located in the Vistula catchment area upstream of the city. They have been compared with the effects of a flood with a probability of 0.2%. The estimation of losses and damages was made on the basis of the results of model studies and flood hazard and flood risk assessments carried out as part of the analyses of the second planning cycle of the implementation of the Floods Directive in Poland. The MIKE 11 model was used to simulate flows in riverbeds and its Dambreak module is used to simulate dam failure. An adjustment of the loss index for Cracow’s residential areas was proposed. Some elements of the described methodology can be used to estimate flood losses in large cities. They can also be applied to cities that are not at risk of dam disasters.
Upgrading the MBBR Process to Reduce Excess Sludge Production in Activated Sludge System Treating Sewage
Authors: Khudhair Duaa Natheer , Hosseinzadeh Majid , Zwain Haider M. , Siadatmousavi Seyed Mostafa , Majdi Ali , Mojiri Amin
Published: January 2023

Excess sludge production is one of the limitations of the biological activated sludge process. Therefore, the study’s objective is to upgrade the MBBR process to an integrated fixed film-activated sludge (IFAS) process to reduce excess sludge production. Two scenarios were followed in this study to eliminate sludge production in the biological activated sludge process: first, modifying the moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) system by increasing the solid retention time (SRT) from 5 to 15 days; and second, upgrading the MBBR process to the integrated fixed-film activated sludge (IFAS) process by applying return activated sludge (RAS) of 50, 100 and 150% with operating hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 6, 12, 14 and 20 h. The results revealed that the first scenario reduced sludge production from 750 to 150 g/day, whereas the second scenario eliminated sludge generation. In the second scenario, operating the system as an IFAS process with complete SRT has eliminated sludge due to sludge decay and cell lysis. In part 3 of the second scenario, the results also showed that the system achieved low effluent pollutants concentrations of 3, 12, 8 and 45 mg/L for BOD, COD, TSS and NO3, respectively. Operating at complete SRT may eliminate sludge production but also result in higher NO3 effluent concentration due to the production of NH3 from sludge decay and cell lysis. To conclude, sludge elimination in an activated sludge system is possible by carefully controlling the process and applying RAS without additional treatment.
Comparison of Dissolved Organic Matter Composition and Microbial Distribution between Distributed-Inflow Biological Reactor and Two-Stage Anoxic/Aerobic for Piggery Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Gao Jinliang , Zhong Zhenxing , Cheng Yayun , Zhang Beiping
Published: January 2023

Piggery wastewater contains high amounts of feces, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other contaminants, introducing serious pollution into water, soil, and the atmosphere. Biological treatment technology is widely used in large-scale pig farms because of its high efficiency and economical advantages. In this study, two typical biological treatment systems—a distributed-inflow biological reactor (DBR) and a two-stage anoxic/aerobic (A/O/A/O)—were adopted to treat piggery wastewater to compare the treatment performance, the dissolved organic matter (DOM) composition, and the microbial distribution characteristics. The results show that the A/O/A/O system had better removal performance in terms of chemical oxygen demand (COD) compared to the DBR system, and similarly effective at removing and ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N) and total nitrogen (TN). Using parallel factor analysis of the fluorescence excitation–emission matrix, four DOM components—namely fulvic acid-like/humic-like substances (C1), tyrosine-like substances (C2), humic-like substances (C3), and tryptophan-like substances (C4)—were tracked in piggery wastewater. Protein-like substances were significantly degraded, while humic-like substances were difficult for microorganisms to utilize. The endogenous input and humus characteristics of effluents were enhanced. Bacteroidetes (43.9% and 37.5% ) and Proteobacteria (43.1% and 56.7%) are the dominant bacteria in DBR and A/O/A/O systems. The microbial metabolites in DBR and A/O/A/O systems are mainly composed of amino acids, sugars, alcohols, and other small molecules, while those in the municipal sewage treatment plant system is mainly composed of ketones, amines, acids, lipids, and other small molecules. The results of microbial communities and metabolites can help to trace the process of biological systems treating piggery wastewater.
Building and Validating Multidimensional Datasets in Hydrology for Data and Mapping Web Service Compliance
Authors: Jones J. Enoch , Hales Riley Chad , Larco Karina , Nelson E. James , Ames Daniel P. , Jones Norman L. , Iza Maylee
Published: January 2023

Multidimensional, georeferenced data are used extensively in hydrology, meteorology, and water science and engineering. These data are produced, shared, and used by diverse organizations globally. Conventions have been developed to standardize the metadata and format of these datasets to ensure compatibility with current and future software and web services. However, the most common conventions are complex and difficult to implement correctly, resulting in datasets that are unusable for many applications due to a lack of compliance with the conventions. We have developed a method and software module for programmatically assigning metadata and guiding the dataset creation, validating, and cleaning process, so that convention-compliant datasets can be consistently and repeatably created by people with a limited knowledge of file formats and data standards. These datasets can then be used in any application that supports the particular standard. Specifically, this paper examines the process of building multidimensional, georeferenced netCDF datasets that are compliant with the NetCDF Climate and Forecast Conventions. We present a new free and open-source Python package called cfbuild that helps to automate the process of building or updating datasets, making them sufficiently compliant with the Climate and Forecast Conventions and the Attribute Conventions for Data Discovery so that they can be reliably served using a THREDDS Data Server and shared via OPeNDAP.
Impact of the Hydroelectric Dam on Aquifer Recharge Processes in the Krško Field and the Vrbina Area: Evidence from Hydrogen and Oxygen Isotopes
Authors: Trček Branka , Mesarec Beno
Published: January 2023

The impact of the damming of the Sava river for the Brežice hydroelectric power plant on the rise of the groundwater level was studied in the intergranular aquifer of the Krško field and the Vrbina area, Slovenia. The study is based on the application of hydrogen and oxygen isotopes (18O, 2H and 3H). Parameters were determined for precipitation, surface water, and groundwater for periods before and after the filling of the accumulation basin, with the aim of evaluating the groundwater–surface water interaction and to elucidate the impact of the hydroelectric dam on aquifer recharge processes. The results show the proportions of the surface water component in groundwater sampled from four wells at high and low water conditions, separately for the period before and after the filling the accumulation basin. After filling the accumulation basin, the proportion of the Sava river component at high water conditions increased from 60% to 80% in the Brege and Drnovo wells (drinking water resources), from 50% to 80% in the Cerklje well and to almost 100% in the near-river NEK well. Combined with previous studies, the results provide important information about the direction of groundwater flow in the aquifer and improve the conceptual model of the study site.
Burnout and Belonging: How the Costs and Benefits of Youth Activism Affect Youth Health and Wellbeing
Authors: Conner Jerusha Osberg , Greytak Emily , Evich Carly D. , Wray-Lake Laura
Published: January 2023

Engagement in youth activism has been linked to both positive and negative wellbeing. Drawing on survey results from a sample of 636 youth participants in the ACLU Advocacy Institute, this study finds that although youth generally report greater benefits from their activism than costs, the costs are significantly related to worse mental health, physical health, and flourishing, while benefits are positively associated with flourishing only. A sense of belonging to an activist community, however, emerges as a significant protective factor for mental health, physical health, and flourishing. Focus group respondents explain how peer support and a sense of belonging act as salves to burnout, the most common cost that youth activists in this sample report experiencing. They also identify three main sources of burnout: backlash in response to their efforts; pressure to be the savior generation; and the slow progress of change. This study advances understanding of the complex relationship between youth activism and wellbeing and raises implications for youth activists and those who support them.
Film Review: “Thus Have We Made the World”: Using the Film The Mission to Explore the Choice for Servant-Leadership
Authors: Carey Michael Lieberman
Published: January 2023

Michael Lieberman Carey finds the 1986 film The Mission (directed by Roland Joffe) to present "Robert Greenleaf's concept that 'the great leader is seen as a servant first, and that simple fact is the key to his greatness,'" and "illustrates [Spears'] ten characteristics of servant-leadership," listening, empathy, healing, awareness, persuasion, conceptualization, foresight, stewardship, committment to the growth of people, and building community.
RepublicSearch, um site para busca e cadastro de repúblicas para estudantes
Authors: Passos Daniel Rovetta , Supeleto Adriano Fernando Bezerra , Wernek Wíris Rafael Januário , Ditzz Áquila Jerad Moulin , Da Costa Cleziel Franzoni , Simão Flávio Pavesi , Da Silva Carlos Alexandre Siqueira , Silveira Pedro David Netto
Published: January 2023

Todo ano diversos alunos ingressam em escolas e faculdades, muitas vezes em cidades diferentes das quais residem. A necessidade da procura de uma república se torna trabalhosa devido ao fato de não se conhecer as pessoas que oferecem esse tipo de serviço e a falta do conhecimento da cidade em que procura residir. Este trabalho pretende facilitar a busca do público estudantil, por repúblicas que estejam disponíveis em uma determinada região, com o desenvolvimento de um site, que execute recomendações e que permita pesquisas com nível de detalhamento sobre características de cada local.
Remoção de tórus palatino associado a complicações pós-cirúrgicas: relato de caso
Authors: Da Silva Gabriel Amaral , da Rocha Pedro Luiz Camurça , Araújo Mônica Sacramento Monteiro , Izidoro Lyandra de Freitas , Varejão Lívia Coutinho , Carvalho Hannah Marcelle Paulain , Da Rosa Marina Rolo Pinheiro
Published: January 2023

O tórus palatino (TP) é um crescimento ósseo benigno, idiopático e assintomático, localizada na linha média do palato duro, apresentando-se nos formatos unilobular, polilobular, plano, nodular ou fusiforme. Sua remoção cirúrgica, quando indicada, pode levar a complicações imediatas ou tardias. O objetivo desse trabalho é relatar o manejo cirúrgico e terapêutico da remoção de um tórus palatino associado à complicação pós-cirúrgica para melhora das funções do sistema estomatognático. O presente trabalho relata a remoção cirúrgica de tórus palatino em uma paciente do gênero feminino, pré-diabética, queixando-se de abaulamento na região do palato duro há aproximadamente 30 anos, com repercussão estética e fonoaudiológica. O procedimento cirúrgico foi realizado em ambiente ambulatorial através da confecção de uma incisão em duplo “Y” no corpo da lesão seguido do descolamento mucoperiosteal para visualização completa do tórus. Em seguida, a remoção do mesmo foi realizada com broca minicut em peça reta sob irrigação copiosa com soro fisiológico 0,9%. Após 2 semanas a paciente evoluiu com deiscência do retalho. Sendo assim, foi realizado uma nova abordagem cirúrgica e medicamentosa para resolução da complicação. Atualmente a paciente apresenta boa evolução, sem queixas no pós-operatório e com completa cicatrização tecidual.