bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Throughput Method for Detection of Arbovirus Infection of Saliva in Mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus
Authors: Honório Nildimar Alves , Câmara Daniel Cardoso Portela , Wiggins Keenan , Eastmond Bradley , Alto Barry Wilmer
Published: November 2020

Vector competence refers to the ability of a vector to acquire, maintain, and transmit a pathogen. Collecting mosquito saliva in medium-filled capillary tubes has become the standard for approximating arbovirus transmission. However, this method is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Here we compare the capillary tube method to an alternative high-throughput detection method the collection of saliva on paper cards saturated with honey, with (FTA card) and without (filter paper) reagents for the preservation of nucleic acid for Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes infected with two emerging genotypes of the chikungunya virus (CHIKV). Model results showed that the Asian genotype CHIKV dissemination in the harvested legs of both Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus increased the odds of females having a positive salivary infection and higher salivary viral titers, while for the IOL genotype the same effect was observed only for Ae. aegypti. Of the three tested detection methods, the FTA card was significantly more effective at detecting infected saliva of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus females than the capillary tube and filter paper was as effective as the capillary tube for the Asian genotype. We did not find significant effects of the detection method in detecting higher viral titer for both Asian and IOL genotypes. Our results are discussed in light of the limitations of the different tested detection methods.
Global Occurrence of Clinically Relevant Hepatitis B Virus Variants as Found by Analysis of Publicly Available Sequencing Data
Authors: Velkov Stoyan , Protzer Ulrike , Michler Thomas
Published: November 2020

Several viral factors impact the natural course of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, the sensitivity of diagnostic tests, or treatment response to interferon-α and nucleos(t)ide analogues. These factors include the viral genotype and serotype but also mutations affecting the HBV surface antigen, basal core promoter/pre-core region, or reverse transcriptase. However, a comprehensive overview of the distribution of HBV variants between HBV genotypes or different geographical locations is lacking. To address this, we performed an in silico analysis of publicly available HBV full-length genome sequences. We found that not only the serotype frequency but also the majority of clinically relevant mutations are primarily associated with specific genotypes. Distinct mutations enriched in certain world regions are not explained by the local genotype distribution. Two HBV variants previously identified to confer resistance to the nucleotide analogue tenofovir in vitro were not identified, questioning their translational relevance. In summary, our work elucidates the differences in the clinical manifestation of HBV infection observed between genotypes and geographical locations and furthermore helps identify suitable diagnostic tests and therapies.
Anti-Tick Microbiota Vaccine Impacts Ixodes ricinus Performance during Feeding
Authors: Mateos-Hernández Lourdes , Obregón Dasiel , Maye Jennifer , Borneres Jeremie , Versille Nicolas , de la Fuente José , Estrada-Peña Agustín , Hodžić Adnan , Šimo Ladislav , Cabezas-Cruz Alejandro
Published: November 2020

The tick microbiota is a highly complex ensemble of interacting microorganisms. Keystone taxa, with a central role in the microbial networks, support the stability and fitness of the microbial communities. The keystoneness of taxa in the tick microbiota can be inferred from microbial co-occurrence networks. Microbes with high centrality indexes are highly connected with other taxa of the microbiota and are expected to provide important resources to the microbial community and/or the tick. We reasoned that disturbance of vector microbiota by removal of ubiquitous and abundant keystone bacteria may disrupt the tick-microbiota homeostasis causing harm to the tick host. These observations and reasoning prompted us to test the hypothesis that antibodies targeting keystone bacteria may harm the ticks during feeding on immunized hosts. To this aim, in silico analyses were conducted to identify keystone bacteria in the microbiota of Ixodes nymphs. The family Enterobacteriaceae was among the top keystone taxa identified in Ixodes microbiota. Immunization of α-1,3-galactosyltransferase-deficient-C57BL/6 (α1,3GT KO) mice with a live vaccine containing the Enterobacteriaceae bacterium Escherichia coli strain BL21 revealed that the production of anti-E. coli and anti-α-Gal IgM and IgG was associated with high mortality of I. ricinus nymphs during feeding. However, this effect was absent in two different strains of wild type mice, BALB/c and C57BL/6. This result concurred with a wide distribution of α-1,3-galactosyltransferase genes, and possibly α-Gal, in Enterobacteriaceae and other bacteria of tick microbiota. Interestingly, the weight of I. ricinus nymphs that fed on E. coli-immunized C57BL/6 was significantly higher than the weight of ticks that fed on C57BL/6 immunized with a mock vaccine. Our results suggest that anti-tick microbiota vaccines are a promising tool for the experimental manipulation of vector microbiota, and potentially the control of ticks and tick-borne pathogens.
Escherichia coli: Physiological Clues Which Turn On the Synthesis of Antimicrobial Molecules
Authors: Paquette Sarah-Jo , Reuter Tim
Published: November 2020

Zoonotic pathogens, like Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are a food safety and health risk. To battle the increasing emergence of virulent microbes, novel mitigation strategies are needed. One strategy being considered to combat pathogens is antimicrobial compounds produced by microbes, coined microcins. However, effectors for microcin production are poorly understood, particularly in the context of complex physiological responses along the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT). Previously, we identified an E. coli competitor capable of producing a strong diffusible antimicrobial with microcin-associated characteristics. Our objective was to examine how molecule production of this competitor is affected by physiological properties associated with the GIT, namely the effects of carbon source, bile salt concentration and growth phase. Using previously described liquid- and agar-based assays determined that carbon sources do not affect antimicrobial production of E. coli O103F. However, bile salt concentrations affected production significantly, suggesting that E. coli O103F uses cues along the GIT to modulate the expression of antimicrobial production. Furthermore, E. coli O103F produces the molecule during the exponential phase, contrary to most microcins identified to date. The results underscored the importance of experimental design to identify producers of antimicrobials. To detect antimicrobials, conventional microbiological methods can be a starting point, but not the gold standard.
Groundwater Sustainability Strategies in the Sierra de Gador-Campo de Dalias System, Southeast Spain
Authors: Pulido-Bosch Antonio , Vallejos Angela , Sola Fernando , Molina Luís
Published: November 2020

Maintaining sustainable development in semi-arid regions is a complex task due to scarce precipitation, with notable temporal and spatial variations that complicate planning and proper management of water resources. Most of the water extractions from the aquifers in southeast Spain are carried out to supply a growing agricultural sector and increasingly successful tourism, which is the case of the Sierra de Gador-Campo de Dalias system. Savings, reutilization and awareness among water users are essential elements in any sustainable water policy. Some of the possible solutions proposed that offer low environmental impacts include certain infrastructure works, such as dams, ditches or recharge in gravel pits. Also, desalinization plants constitute a technical alternative in theory but involve high costs. The integration of all these resources, together with their proper management, is necessary to ensure the future water supply and economic growth in the region, safeguarding the state of its aquifers that are currently intensely overexploited.
Uncertainty Relations in Hydrodynamics
Authors: Gonçalves de Matos Gyell , Kodama Takeshi , Koide Tomoi
Published: November 2020

The qualitative behaviors of uncertainty relations in hydrodynamics are numerically studied for fluids with low Reynolds numbers in 1+1 dimensional system. We first give a review for the formulation of the generalized uncertainty relations in the stochastic variational method (SVM), following the work by two of the present authors [Phys. Lett. A 382, 1472 (2018)]. In this approach, the origin of the finite minimum value of uncertainty is attributed to the non-differentiable (virtual) trajectory of a quantum particle and then both of the Kennard and Robertson-Schrödinger inequalities in quantum mechanics are reproduced. The same non-differentiable trajectory is applied to the motion of fluid elements in the Navier-Stokes-Fourier equation or the Navier-Stokes-Korteweg equation. By introducing the standard deviations of position and momentum for fluid elements, the uncertainty relations in hydrodynamics are derived. These are applicable even to the Gross-Pitaevskii equation and then the field-theoretical uncertainty relation is reproduced. We further investigate numerically the derived relations and find that the behaviors of the uncertainty relations for liquid and gas are qualitatively different. This suggests that the uncertainty relations in hydrodynamics are used as a criterion to classify liquid and gas in fluid.
Conflict Resilience of Water and Energy Supply Infrastructure: Insights from Yemen
Authors: Al-Saidi Mohammad , Roach Emma Lauren , Al-Saeedi Bilal Ahmed Hassen
Published: November 2020

Political instability and conflicts are contemporary problems across the Middle East. They threaten not only basic security, but also infrastructure performance. Supply infrastructure, providing basic services such as water and electricity, has been subjected to damage, capacity deterioration, and the bankruptcy of public providers. Often, in conflict countries such as Yemen, the continuity of basic supply is only possible thanks to adaptation efforts on the community and household levels. This paper examines the conflict resilience of water and energy supply infrastructure in Yemen during the armed conflict 2015–today. It contributes to resilience studies by linking knowledge on state fragility and conflicts, humanitarian aid, and infrastructure resilience. The paper presents adaptation responses of communities and public entities in the water and energy sectors in Yemen and critically evaluates these responses from the perspective of conflict resilience of infrastructure. The gained insights reaffirm the notion about the remarkable adaptive capacities of communities during conflicts and the importance of incorporating community-level adaptation responses into larger efforts to enhance the conflict resilience of infrastructure systems.
Floating Wetland Islands Implementation and Biodiversity Assessment in a Port Marina
Authors: Calheiros Cristina S. C. , Carecho João , Tomasino Maria P. , Almeida C. Marisa R. , Mucha Ana P.
Published: November 2020

Floating wetland islands (FWI) are considered nature-based solutions with great potential to promote several ecosystem services, such as biodiversity and water quality enhancement through phytoremediation processes. To our knowledge, the present work is the first to scientifically document the in-situ establishment of an FWI in a seawater port marina. The establishment and performance of a cork floating platform with a polyculture (Sarcocornia perennis, Juncus maritimus, Phragmites australis, Halimione portulacoides, Spartina maritima, Limonium vulgare) was evaluated. The diversity of organisms present in the FWI was undertaken based on the macrofauna assessment, taking into consideration marine water characterization, with a focus on hydrocarbons. Microbial communities were assessed based on metabarcoding approach to study 16S rRNA gene from environmental DNA retrieved from biofilm (from the planting media), marine biofouling (from the submerged platform) and surface marina water. S. perennis was the species with the highest survival rate and growth. The structure of the microbial community showed clear differences between those established in the FWI and those in the surrounding water, showing the presence of some bacterial groups that can be relevant for bioremediation processes (e.g., Saprospiraceae family). Concerning the macrofauna analysis, Mytilus sp. was the predominant taxa. To be of relevance, total petroleum hydrocarbons were detected at the marina up to ca. 6 mg/L. This study gives new insights into broadening FWI application to the saline environments of port marinas and to supporting a management strategy to promote several ecosystem services such biodiversity, species habitat, water quality enhancement and added aesthetic value to the marina landscape.
A Study on Heavy Metals in the Surface Soil of the Region around the Qinghai Lake in Tibet Plateau: Pollution Risk Evaluation and Pollution Source Analysis
Authors: Wei Peiru , Shao Tianjie , Wang Ruojin , Chen Zongyan , Zhang Zhongdi , Xu Zhiping , Zhu Yadi , Li Dongze , Fu Lijuan , Wang Feier
Published: November 2020

In order to reveal the pollution characteristics and sources of heavy metals in surface soil of the region around the Qinghai Lake in Tibet Plateau, improve the prevention awareness and measures of local residents and urge the local government to implement necessary prevention and control measures, nine heavy metals (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) in the surface soil samples of the region around the Qinghai Lake have been collected and analyzed. The methods such as statistic method, geo-accumulation index method, Nemerow index method, potential ecological risk index method, human health risk evaluation method and positive matrix factor analysis model (PMF) have been used to evaluate pollution characteristics and potential risks and analyze the sources of heavy metals. The results are shown below. First, the average contents of heavy metals (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) in soil are 11.73 ± 3.78, 0.62 ± 1.40, 12.38 ± 3.68, 41.35 ± 13.01, 19.33 ± 8.92, 546.96 ± 159.28, 21.18 ± 7.04, 21.86 ± 6.61 and 63.51 ± 19.71 mg·kg−1, respectively. Compared with the background values of the soil environment in Qinghai Province, it can be seen that there is an accumulation of these heavy metals to varying degrees, which is the most serious in Cd, Co and Pb. Second, the analysis of the geo-accumulation index and Nemerow index indicates that the heavy metals in the surface soil of the region around the Qinghai Lake have reached the level of heavy pollution, mainly polluted by Cd, and the accumulation of heavy metal pollution in the north, south, southwest and southeast of the study area is more serious. Third, the results of potential ecological risk evaluation show that the study area as a whole is classified as an area with high ecological risk, and Cd contributes the most to the overall risk. In fact, the heavy metals in the soil of the study area produce no noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks to human health, and children and adults may be exposed to these risks by the mouth. Finally, the PMF results reveal that the sources of heavy metals in the study area include the sources of agricultural production, the nature, coal burning and transportation, with a contribution rate of 43.10%, 25.34%, 19.67% and 11.89%, respectively.
Is It Optimal to Use the Entirety of the Available Flow Records in the Range of Variability Approach?
Authors: Sun Yuanyuan , Liu Cailing , Zhao Yanwei , Mao Xianqiang , Zhang Jun , Liu Hongrui
Published: November 2020

Reducing the degree of flow regime alteration is a basic principle for biodiversity conservation in rivers. The range of variability approach (RVA) is the most widely used method to assess flow regime alteration. Generally, researchers tend to put all of the available pre-impact and post-impact flow records into the RVA. However, no research has tested whether it is optimal to use the entirety of the available flow records from the perspective of calculation accuracy for the degree of flow regime alteration. In this research, a series of numerical simulations is conducted, demonstrating that the greatest accuracy for flow regime alteration degree assessed by the RVA is achieved when the length of both the pre- and post-impact flow time series is set equal to multiples of periodicity length, and that, when attempting to put the whole available flow record into the RVA, calculation accuracy may be reduced. On the basis of these findings, we further propose revising the traditional RVA procedure by assessing the periodicity of the pre- and post-impact flow time series in advance. If the periodicity of the pre- or post-impact flows is detected, the length of the time series should be set equal to its periodicity.
Using the Turnover Time Index to Identify Potential Strategic Groundwater Resources to Manage Droughts within Continental Spain
Authors: Pulido-Velazquez David , Romero Javier , Collados-Lara Antonio-Juan , Alcalá Francisco J. , Fernández-Chacón Francisca , Baena-Ruiz Leticia
Published: November 2020

The management of droughts is a challenging issue, especially in water scarcity areas, where this problem will be exacerbated in the future. The aim of this paper is to identify potential groundwater (GW) bodies with reduced vulnerability to pumping, which can be used as buffer values to define sustainable conjunctive use management during droughts. Assuming that the long term natural mean reserves are maintained, a preliminary assessment of GW vulnerability can be obtained by using the natural turnover time (T) index, defined in each GW body as the storage capacity (S) divided by the recharge (R). Aquifers where R is close to S are extremely vulnerable to exploitation. This approach will be applied in the 146 Spanish GW bodies at risk of not achieving the Water Framework Directive (WFD objectives, to maintain a good quantitative status. The analyses will be focused on the impacts of the climate drivers on the mean T value for Historical and potential future scenarios, assuming that the Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) changes and the management strategies will allow maintenance of the long term mean natural GW body reserves. Around 26.9% of these GW bodies show low vulnerability to pumping, when viewing historical T values over 100 years, this percentage growing to 33.1% in near future horizon values (until 2045). The results show a significant heterogeneity. The range of variability for the historical T values is around 3700 years, which also increases in the near future to 4200 years. These T indices will change in future horizons, and, therefore, the potential of GW resources to undergo sustainable strategies to adapt to climate change will also change accordingly, making it necessary to apply adaptive management strategies.
Livelihood Vulnerability and Adaptation Capacity of Rice Farmers under Climate Change and Environmental Pressure on the Vietnam Mekong Delta Floodplains
Authors: Tran Dung Duc , Quang Chau Nguyen Xuan , Tien Pham Duy , Tran Pham Gia , Kim Long Pham , Van Hoa Ho , Ngoc Hoang Giang Ngo , Thi Thu Ha Le
Published: November 2020

Agricultural production is the primary source of income and food security for rural households in many deltas of the world. However, the sustainability of farm livelihoods is under threat, due to the impacts of climate change and environmental pressure, including shifting hydrological regimes, droughts, water pollution, land subsidence and riverbank erosion. This study evaluated the livelihood sustainability and vulnerability of triple rice farmers on the floodplains of the Vietnam Mekong Delta (VMD). We focused on the perceptions of rice farmers, based on a survey of 300 farmers. Increasing temperatures, drought, water pollution and sediment shortages were the four factors considered by farmers to have the most impact on their agricultural livelihoods. We analyzed farmers’ capacity to sustain their livelihoods and adapt to the changing environment. Results show relatively low vulnerability of rice farmers overall, though many of those surveyed reported very low incomes from rice production. Factors of most concern to farmers were rising temperatures and more frequent droughts. Farmers were already taking steps to adapt, for example, increasing production inputs and investing more labor time, as well as switching production methods. Yet, our findings suggest that policymakers and scientists have a role to play in developing more sustainable adaptation paths. The research clarifies the livelihood vulnerability of triple rice farmers on the VMD floodplains, while more generally contributing to the body of literature on farming and climate change and environmental pressure.
An Augmented Reality Facility to Run Hybrid Physical-Numerical Flood Models
Authors: Puertas Jerónimo , Hernández-Ibáñez Luis , Cea Luis , Regueiro-Picallo Manuel , Barneche-Naya Viviana , Varela-García Francisco-Alberto
Published: November 2020

This article presents a novel installation for the development of hybrid physical-numerical flood models in an augmented reality environment. This installation extends the concept introduced by the well-known Augmented Reality-SandBox (AR-Sandbox) module, which presents a more educational, and less research-based and professional application. It consists of a physical scale topography built in a sandbox into which other elements (such as buildings, roads or dikes) can be incorporated. A scanner generates, in real time, a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) from the sandbox topography, which serves as a basis for the simulation of overland flow using professional hydraulic software (Iber+). The hydraulic and hydrological parameters (surface roughness, inlet discharges, boundary conditions) are entered with a simple Graphical User Interface (GUI) developed specifically for this project, as indeed was the entire system that allows the visualization of the simulation results. This allows us to obtain quantitative results of flood extension and magnitude, which are represented directly over the physical topography, yielding a realistic visual effect. This installation is conceived for both educational and professional uses. An example of its use is presented, through which its accuracy can be appreciated, and which also illustrates its potential.
Analysis of the Flow Performance of the Complex Cross-Section Module to Reduce the Sedimentation in a Combined Sewer Pipe
Authors: Ji Hyon Wook , Yoo Sung Soo , Koo Dan Daehyun , Kang Jeong-Hee
Published: November 2020

The difference in the amount of stormwater and sewage in a combined sewer system is significantly large in areas where heavy rainfall is concentrated. This leads to a low water level and slow flow velocity inside the pipes, which causes sedimentation and odor on non-rainy days. A complex cross-section module increases the flow velocity by creating a small waterway inside the pipe for sewage to flow on non-rainy days. While considering Manning’s equation, we applied the principle where the flow velocity is proportional to two-thirds of the power of the hydraulic radius. The flow velocity of a circular pipe with a diameter of 450 mm and the corresponding complex cross-section module was analyzed by applying Manning’s equation and numerical modeling to show the effects of the complex cross-section module. The tractive force was compared based on a lab-scale experiment. When all conditions were identical except for the cross-sectional shape, the average flow velocity of the complex cross-section module was 14% higher while the size of the transported sand grains was up to 0.5 mm larger. This increase in flow velocity can be even higher if the roughness coefficient of aging pipes can be decreased.
Sources, Influencing Factors, and Pollution Process of Inorganic Nitrogen in Shallow Groundwater of a Typical Agricultural Area in Northeast China
Authors: Du Xinqiang , Feng Jing , Fang Min , Ye Xueyan
Published: November 2020

As one of the largest agricultural areas, the Sanjiang Plain of Northeast China has faced serious inorganic nitrogen pollution of groundwater, but the sources and the formation mechanism of pollution in the regional shallow groundwater remain unclear, which constrains the progress of pollution control and agricultural development planning. An investigation on potential nitrogen sources, groundwater inorganic nitrogen compounds (NH4+, NO3−, NO2−), and topsoil total nitrogen concentration (TN) was conducted in a typical paddy irrigation area of Sanjiang Plain. Multivariate statistical analysis combined with geospatial-based assessment was applied to identify the sources, determine the governing influencing factors, and analyze the formation process of inorganic nitrogen compounds in shallow groundwater. The results show that the land use type, oxidation-reduction potential (Eh), groundwater depth, NO2− concentration, and electrical conductivity (EC) are highly correlated with the NO3− pollution in groundwater, while DO and Eh affected the distribution of NH4+ most; the high concentrations of NO3− in sampling wells are most likely to be found in the residential land and are distributed mainly in densely populated areas, whereas the NH4+ compounds are most likely to accumulate in the paddy field or the lands surrounded by paddy field and reach the highest level in the northwest of the area, where the fields were cultivated intensively with higher fertilization rates and highest values of topsoil TN. From the results, it can be concluded that that the NO3− compounds in groundwater originated from manure and domestic waste and accumulated in the oxidizing environment, while the NH4+ compounds were derived from N fertilization and remained steady in the reducing environment. NO2− compounds in groundwater were the immediate products of nitrification as a result of microorganism activities.
Assessing Land-Cover Effects on Stream Water Quality in Metropolitan Areas Using the Water Quality Index
Authors: Kim TaeHo , Kim YoungWoo , Shin Jihoon , Go ByeongGeon , Cha YoonKyung
Published: November 2020

This study evaluated the influence of different land-cover types on the overall water quality of streams in urban areas. To ensure national applicability of the results, this study encompassed ten major metropolitan areas in South Korea. Using cluster analysis, watersheds were classified into three land-cover types: Urban-dominated (URB), agriculture-dominated (AGR), and forest-dominated (FOR). For each land-cover type, factor analysis (FA) was used to ensure simple and feasible parameter selection for developing the minimum water quality index (WQImin). The chemical oxygen demand, fecal coliform (total coliform for FOR), and total nitrogen (nitrate-nitrogen for URB) were selected as key parameters for all land-cover types. Our results suggest that WQImin can minimize bias in water quality assessment by reducing redundancy among correlated parameters, resulting in better differentiation of pollution levels. Furthermore, the dominant land-cover type of watersheds, not only affects the level and causes of pollution, but also influences temporal patterns, including the long-term trends and seasonality, of stream water quality in urban areas in South Korea.
GPs’ perspectives on acne management in primary care: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Platt Duncan , Muller Ingrid , Sufraz Anicka , Little Paul , Santer Miriam
Published: November 2020

Background

Acne is a common skin condition, affecting most adolescents at some point. While guidelines recommend topical treatments first-line, long courses of oral antibiotics are commonly prescribed.

Aim

To explore GPs’ perspectives on managing acne.

Design and setting

Qualitative interview study with GPs in South West England.

Method

GPs were invited to participate via existing email lists used by GP educators to disseminate information. Purposive sampling was used to recruit a range of participants by sex, number of years in practice, and whether their practice was rural or urban. Semi-structured telephone interviews followed an interview guide and were audiorecorded and transcribed. Data were explored using inductive thematic analysis facilitated by NVivo software (version 11).

Results

A total of 102 GPs were invited, of whom 20 participated. Analysis revealed uncertainties regarding topical treatments, particularly around available products, challenges regarding side effects, and acceptability of topical treatments. GPs generally either perceived topical treatments to be less effective than oral antibiotics or perceived pressure from patients to prescribe oral antibiotics due to patients’ views of topical treatments being ineffective. GPs described a familiarity with prescribing oral antibiotics and expressed little concern about antimicrobial stewardship in the context of acne. Some seemed unaware of guidance suggesting that antibiotic use in acne should not exceed 3 months, while others spoke about avoiding difficult conversations with patients regarding discontinuation of antibiotics.

Conclusion

GPs expressed uncertainty about the use of topical treatments for acne and either felt that treatments were of low effectiveness or perceived pressure from patients to prescribe oral antibiotics.
Management of non-urgent paediatric emergency department attendances by GPs: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Leigh Simon , Mehta Bimal , Dummer Lillian , Aird Harriet , McSorley Sinead , Oseyenum Venessa , Cumbers Anna , Ryan Mary , Edwardson Karl , Johnston Phil , Robinson Jude , Coenen Frans , Taylor-Robinson David , Niessen Louis W , Carrol Enitan D
Published: November 2020

Background

Non-urgent emergency department (ED) attendances are common among children. Primary care management may not only be more clinically appropriate, but may also improve patient experience and be more cost-effective.

Aim

To determine the impact on admissions, waiting times, antibiotic prescribing, and treatment costs of integrating a GP into a paediatric ED.

Design and setting

Retrospective cohort study explored non-urgent ED presentations in a paediatric ED in north-west England.

Method

From 1 October 2015 to 30 September 2017, a GP was situated in the ED from 2.00 pm until 10.00 pm, 7 days a week. All children triaged as ‘green’ using the Manchester Triage System (non-urgent) were considered to be ‘GP appropriate’. In cases of GP non-availability, children considered non-urgent were managed by ED staff. Clinical and operational outcomes, as well as the healthcare costs of children managed by GPs and ED staff across the same timeframe over a 2-year period were compared.

Results

Of 115 000 children attending the ED over the study period, a complete set of data were available for 13 099 categorised as ‘GP appropriate’; of these, 8404 (64.2%) were managed by GPs and 4695 (35.8%) by ED staff. Median duration of ED stay was 39 min (interquartile range [IQR] 16–108 min) in the GP group and 165 min (IQR 104–222 min) in the ED group (P<0.001). Children in the GP group were less likely to be admitted as inpatients (odds ratio [OR] 0.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.13 to 0.20) and less likely to wait >4 hours before being admitted or discharged (OR 0.11; 95% CI = 0.08 to 0.13), but were more likely to receive antibiotics (OR 1.42; 95% CI = 1.27 to 1.58). Treatment costs were 18.4% lower in the group managed by the GP (P<0.0001).

Conclusion

Given the rising demand for children’s emergency services, GP in ED care models may improve the management of non-urgent ED presentations. However, further research that incorporates causative study designs is required.
Recurso terapêutico ocupacional para tratamento de delirium em pacientes com COVID-19
Authors: Barreto Renata Gomes , Sousa Wendy Chrystyan Medeiros de , Silva Silmara Maria Alves Fernandes da , Souza Thais Alves de , Silva Erika Carneiro da , Brito Bruno da Silva , Teodozio Gilberto Costa , Silvestre Maria Cecilia de Araújo
Published: November 2020

Objetivo. A reabilitação cognitiva precoce e suas formas de intervenção para prevenção e tratamento do delirium é um foco relativamente novo de pesquisa. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar uma alternativa de intervenção cognitiva para prevenção e manejo de delirium em pacientes com COVID-19 no contexto hospitalar. Método. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo definido pela elaboração de um livro como recurso terapêutico ocupacional baseado na intervenção cognitiva para prevenção e manejo de delirium dos pacientes internados em um hospital  estadual de referência no tratamento do COVID-19. Resultados. O livro interativo “Você pode tudo menos desistir” utilizou estratégias de compensação que facilitam e fortalecem o processamento cognitivo, além de treinamento cognitivo de funções específicas, tais como a memória, pensamento, aspectos emocionais e consciência da própria identidade. Conclusão. Sugere-se que o livro interativo pode ser utilizado como uma estratégia não farmacológica de ntervenção, proporcionando o engajamento terapêutico durante as atividades de estimulação cognitiva para prevenção e manejo de delirium em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19.
Leylâ Erbil’in “Aitsiz Kimlik”i Neslihan: Karanlığın Günü’nde Kendilik Bilinci
Authors: ŞAHİN Burcu , ÇELİK Yakup
Published: November 2020

Tuhaf Bir Kadın (1971) adlı metniyle yazın parantezini açan Leylâ Erbil, Tuhaf Bir Erkek (2013) ile parantezi kapatmıştır. Bu parantezin içindeki Karanlığın Günü, Mektup Aşkları, Cüce, Üç Başlı Ejderha ve Kalan adlı romanları meseleleri ele alış biçimiyle edebiyat tarihinde ayrıksı bir yerde durmaktadır. Daha çok feminist yazın içinde değerlendirilen bu yedi metin, elbette insan oluş, “kendilik bilinci”, “kendiiçinvarlık”, “kendi olma” vb. farklı meseleler merkeze alınarak da incelenebilir. Tuhaflık parantezindeki yedi metinde tematik açıdan sarmal bir yapının olduğu görülmektedir. Metinlerin birbirinden doğduğu, birbiriyle konuştuğu, baştan sonra neredeyse tek bir romanın bölümleri olduğu ve bir merkezde toplandığı iddia edilebilir. Bu merkezde birey olmaya, kimlik oluşturmaya çalışan, bunun mücadelesini toplumla ve her türden kurumla çatışarak veren kişilerin nihayetinde hiçbir yere tam mânâsıyla ait olamamaları, Cüce metnindeki Zenîme Hanım’ın ifadesiyle birer “aitsiz kimlik” oluşları anlatılır. Bu çalışmada Karanlığın Günü romanının “aitsiz kimlik”i Neslihan’ın kendilik sorunsalında nasıl biçimlendiği belirlenecektir. Foucault’nun “kendini biçimlendirme teknolojileri” teriminden hareketle Neslihan’ın kendiliğinin yazıda ve yazarlıkta şekillendiği üzerinde durulacak, gündelik hayatın sıkıntılarıyla tam bir metne ulaşamamasının yarattığı narsisistik zedelenmenin de etkisiyle en nihayetinde kendini aitsiz oluşla tanımladığı görülecektir.
toxic effects of aflatoxin microorganisms in plants used as spices
Authors: Bara Camelia
Published: November 2020

As an extension of the analysis of black, white and capsicum peppers for aflatoxins , we have examined an additional 11 types of spices and4 herbs for these mycotoxins. The investigations consisted of assessment of the applicability of available methods of analysis and modifications ofthese, where necessary together, with a limited survey of each spice and herb for aflatoxins. The analysis of 13 types of ground spices reportedthe presence of low concentrations of aflatoxins in some samples of black pepper, celery seed, and nutmeg. We decided to include in our study 5of the spices examined by these workers (cinnamon, celery seed, coriander, nutmeg, and turmeric) for a comparison purpose. In addition weexamined ginger, mace, cumin seed, dill seed, garlic powder, onion powder, and the herbs marjoram, rosemary, thyme, and sage.
Study of animal welfare status and heat stress measures applied in dairy cow herds in Hungary
Authors: Gudaj Richárd , Komlósi István , Brydl Endre
Published: November 2020

The following material focuses on dairy production and climate related issues in Hungary. All the data was gathered during PhDproject: Study of animal welfare status in dairy cow herds in Hungary. Relations between animal welfare and climate changes expressed byincrease in temperature are described. Extremely hot weather creates hard conditions for milking cows when animal welfare is highlycompromised. From the preliminary results obtained one might formulate hypothesis that there are still areas on the farms where immediateactions should be taken to give a relief to cows in hot seasons. There was found significant number of farms with too many animals per onewater trough, dirty water troughs, limited access to water troughs and hazardous surface for cows in critical places where many animals aregathered. Calves with not sufficient amount of water in hot days and other parts of the year were reported. Silage exposure to the sun andmouldy food in a silage clump was also found to be an important factor in monitoring impact of warm weather. Half of the farms lettinganimals to spend time on the pasture or paddock did not provide shade for animals. Low conception rate of first insemination was predictedto be influenced by heat stress, what is proved by lack of heat decreasing measures taken on the farms.
Studies of the influences of different N fertilizers and Microbion UNC bacterial fertilizer on the nutrient content of soil
Authors: Balla Kovács Andrea , Szabó Anita , Bartáné Szabó Emese
Published: November 2020

A field experiment was conducted to examine the effects of different nitrogen fertilizers in combination with bacterial fertilizer onnutrient uptake of horseradish and plant available nutrients of the soil. Three different N fertilizers, ammonium-nitrate, urea and calciumnitrate(116 kg ha-1 N) in combination with Microbion UNC bacterial fertilizer (2 kg ha-1) were applied as treatments in a randomizedcomplete block design in three replications. In this paper we presented the results of soil measurements. The soil of the experimental areawas chernozem with medium sufficiency level of N and P and poor level of K.Our main results:The amount of 0.01M CaCl2 soluble inorganic nitrogen fractions, NO3--N and NH4+-N and also the quantity of soluble organic-N werealmost the same in the soil. N fertilizers significantly increased all the soluble N fractions. The amount of NO3--N increased to the greatestextent and the increase of organic N was the slightest. We measured the largest CaCl2 soluble NO3- -N and total-N contents in the plotstreated with ammonium-nitrate, the largest NH4+-N in the plots treated with calcium-nitrate and the largest organic-N fraction in plotstreated with urea.Bacterial inoculation also increased both soluble inorganic nitrogen forms and also total-N content of soil compared to the control. Inthe case of combined (artificial and bacterial fertilizer) treatments we measured lower NO3--N, organic-N and total-N compared to thevalues of plots having only nitrogen fertilizer treatments. On the contrary in the plots with combined treatments the CaCl2 soluble NH4+-Ncontent of soil in more cases were higher than that of values with artificial fertilizer treatment.As a function of calcium-nitrate application increased AL-P2O5 and AL-K2O values were measured compared to control. MicrobionUNC supplement of calcium nitrate yielded also increase in AL-P2O5 and AL-K2O values, till then supplement of ammonium-nitrate fertilizeryielded a decrease in these values compared to the control.All nitrogen fertilizers resulted in a significant decrease in AL-Mg content of soil compared to the control. Nevertheless bacterialfertilizer increased AL-Mg values in any cases.
Survey of the chance of secondary salinization in the hobby gardens around Karcag
Authors: Zsembeli József , Szűcs Lilla
Published: November 2020

Irrigation involves the risk of secondary salinization on certain areas. The increase of the level of salty groundwater or the applicationof poor quality (salty) irrigation water can cause secondary salinization. Irrigation from drilled wells is very characteristic in the smallhobby gardens located around Karcag during the frequently droughty summers. Mainly vegetables and fruits with high water demand aregrown in these gardens, hence quite a large amount of subsurface waters are used for irrigation. Water samples were taken from 46 drilledwells located in the hobby gardens around the town of Karcag and analysed in order to survey the risk of secondary salinization. On thebase of the results of the analyses and some indexes calculated from the chemical parameters of the irrigation waters, it can be establishedthat none of the investigated wells supply water that is suitable for irrigation without improvement.
Plant production possibilities on a heavy metal contaminated soil with the purpose of biorefinery
Authors: Dergez Ágnes , Blaskó Lajos , Bordás Diána , Zsigrai György , Kiss István , Szabó Sándor
Published: November 2020

Significant part of not cultivated area of Hungary is not suitable for agricultural utilization because of industrialpollution. Technologies of biorefinery make reutilization of contaminated areas possible. Biomass of plantsproduced on polluted soils can be raw material of valuable products. Applicability of biorefinery was tested on aheavy metal polluted soil, where the contamination originated from previous mining activity. Complete biomassutilization was aimed to obtain cosmetic ingredients, pharmaceutical agents, and precursors. During our researchwork 88 plant species and varieties were produced and tested for potential utilizable components. Levels ofpossible contaminants in these plants were monitored, and amounts of carbohydrates, protein, organic acid andcellulose were determined as well. Different plant extracts were tested as potential sources of biologically effectivecomponents or as raw materials for lactic acid fermentation. Our results show that biorefinery is a real possibilityfor utilization of polluted areas. Numerous plants could be cultivated on contaminated areas without increasedlevels of contaminants in their tissues, thus they can be sources of valuable compounds.
Competence modules of the agro-environmental engineering bachelor course in Hungary
Authors: Juhász Csaba , Mocsáriné Fricz Julianna
Published: November 2020

One of the most important goals of the Bologna Process is to introduce the three circle system: bachelor, master, doctorate courses. In Hungary from 2006/2007 academic year 132 bachelor courses are launched. One of the launched bachelor course is environmental engineering of which the scientific background and economical sector are rapidly changing. Hence, to help graduates from this area to find a job, it is very important to examine working activities, expectations of employers, to study requirements of the training programs, the system of competencies. Having examined these points, frameworks of professional requirements have been worked out by 27 validation tests. In this publication, the results of the research work related to the environmental engineering bachelor program were presented.
Status of soil quality in south-west of Romania and its role in sustainable development of the rural space
Authors: Tarau Dorin , Borza Iacob , Dicu Daniel
Published: November 2020

Being aware of lands ecological resources’ natural conditions and particularities for different uses and crops is of great importancefor the big and small producers.In this paper we present the main aspects regarding the quality of the ecopedological conditions. Here there are briefly presented thephysico-geographic conditions and the telluric-edaphic configuration of the area. Also, the structure of the main categories of agriculturalactivities in the physical geographical areas (mountains, hills and plateaus, high and low plains and meadows) and main soils’ types andassociations are presented. Lands vocation for different use (arable, lawns, hay, orchard, vineyardThe paper ends with highlighting the necessary measures for a lasting administration of ecopedological resources in the studied area.
Evaluation of water balance in apple and pear trees
Authors: Tamás János , Zsembeli József , Riczu Péter
Published: November 2020

A significant proportion of the aboveground green and dry weight of the plant constitutes the foliage. The canopy is an important factorof plant growth. On one hand the canopy absorbs the solar energy, which is necessary for the photosynthesis, on the other hand accumulatesthe absorbed nutrients by the roots, and the most of the water-loss happens through the foliages. The determination of the full canopy is notan easy target. In our research we developed a measurement method to determine the leaf area. With the parameters of the examined tree(leaf length and maximum width) and the data of ADC AM 100 leaf area scanner we determined the k-value, with which we can easily andfast evaluate the leaf surface. Furthermore we defined from the water balance of compensation lysimeters the cumulative transpiration offruit trees and the efficiency of water use of trees.
Earnings Management in Light of the Shift to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS): An Exploratory Study on Saudi Corporations
Authors: M Alnafea Dr. Fahad Sulaiman
Published: November 2020

This study aims to study the Earnings management in light of the shift to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) through a field study, which has occurred in Saudi joint-stock companies. Through research, I achieved several results, such as: That there is change expected to happen in Earnings management in light of the shift to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) via: Manipulating both the expenditure and revenue in the income statement, The manipulation of the accounts of Balance Sheet Statement, The manipulation of cash flows statement, as well as through the manipulation of reports of the changes in equity statement. The accountants in Saudi Corporations are concerned to shift to IFRS, expecting that the Earnings management is going on; thus, the IFRS had implemented.
A Guide towards Building Effective, Metrics-Driven and Mathematical Sales Segmentation Models for an Enterprise B2B SaaS Business
Authors: Iyer Venketesh , Peravali Rahul
Published: November 2020

The paper’s goal is to help B2B SaaS companies attain two primary goals - 1. Leverage best-in-class business firmographic data for building territory segmentation models 2. Balance the models against the most effective sales metrics, and 3. Understand and optimize for territory disruption year over year due to change in the scale of business. In the paper, we build a model based on the most fundamental building blocks of any SaaS business. The analytical model helps the sales operations, revenue operations and sales departments understand the main drivers of territory disruption and, build balanced territory segments to ensure equitable financial targets for sales reps.