bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constructing an Environmental Friendly Low-Carbon-Emission Intelligent Transportation System Based on Big Data and Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Peng Tu , Yang Xu , Xu Zi , Liang Yu
Published: October 2020

The sustainable development of mankind is a matter of concern to the whole world. Environmental pollution and haze diffusion have greatly affected the sustainable development of mankind. According to previous research, vehicle exhaust emissions are an important source of environmental pollution and haze diffusion. The sharp increase in the number of cars has also made the supply of energy increasingly tight. In this paper, we have explored the use of intelligent navigation technology based on data analysis to reduce the overall carbon emissions of vehicles on road networks. We have implemented a traffic flow prediction method using a genetic algorithm and particle-swarm-optimization-enhanced support vector regression, constructed a model for predicting vehicle exhaust emissions based on predicted road conditions and vehicle fuel consumption, and built our low-carbon-emission-oriented navigation algorithm based on a spatially optimized dynamic path planning algorithm. The results show that our method could help to significantly reduce the overall carbon emissions of vehicles on the road network, which means that our method could contribute to the construction of low-carbon-emission intelligent transportation systems and smart cities.
Goal-Programming-Based Multi-Objective Optimization in Off-Grid Microgrids
Authors: Hussain Akhtar , Kim Hak-Man
Published: October 2020

Renewable-based off-grid microgrids are considered as a potential solution for providing electricity to rural and remote communities in an environment-friendly manner. In such systems, energy storage is commonly utilized to cope with the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. However, frequent usage may result in the fast degradation of energy storage elements. Therefore, a goal-programming-based multi-objective optimization problem has been developed in this study, which considers both the energy storage system (battery and electric vehicle) degradation and the curtailment of loads and renewables. Initially, goals are set for each of the parameters and the objective of the developed model is to minimize the deviations from those set goals. Degradation of battery and electric vehicles is quantified using deep discharging, overcharging, and cycling frequency during the operation horizon. The developed model is solved using two of the well-known approaches used for solving multi-optimization problems, the weighted-sum approach and the priority approach. Five cases are simulated for each of the methods by varying weight/priority of different objectives. Besides this, the impact of weight and priority values selected by policymakers is also analyzed. Simulation results have shown the superiority of the weighted-sum method over the priority method in solving the formulated problem.
Psychological Capital, Workload, and Burnout: What’s New? The Impact of Personal Accomplishment to Promote Sustainable Working Conditions
Authors: López-Núñez M. Inmaculada , Rubio-Valdehita Susana , Diaz-Ramiro Eva M. , Aparicio-García Marta E.
Published: October 2020

Research on burnout has traditionally focused on job demands, with less attention paid to protective factors. From the emerging and innovative area of psychology of sustainability and sustainable development, this study aimed to analyze the relationship that job demands (workload), and personal resources (psychological capital) have with burnout. The sample includes 517 workers from various professional sectors. Results of the structural equation analysis show that (1) psychological capital and workload are related to burnout, and (2) personal accomplishment is more a personal resource than burnout dimension. The results confirm the role of psychological capital as a protective factor for burnout. Finally, the importance of examining the relationship between the components of psychological capital, personal accomplishment, and positive emotions is pointed out due to the importance of organizations promoting the development of psychological strengths and resources to promote well-being and sustainable working conditions.
Fuel Cell Characteristic Curve Approximation Using the Bézier Curve Technique
Authors: Louzazni Mohamed , Al-Dahidi Sameer , Mussetta Marco
Published: October 2020

Accurate modelling of the fuel cell characteristics curve is essential for the simulation analysis, control management, performance evaluation, and fault detection of fuel cell power systems. However, the big challenge in fuel cell modelling is the multi-variable complexity of the characteristic curves. In this paper, we propose the implementation of a computer graphic technique called Bézier curve to approximate the characteristics curves of the fuel cell. Four different case studies are examined as follows: Ballard Systems, Horizon H-12 W stack, NedStackPS6, and 250 W proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). The main objective is to minimize the absolute errors between experimental and calculated data by using the control points of the Bernstein–Bézier function and de Casteljau’s algorithm. The application of this technique entails subdividing the fuel cell curve to some segments, where each segment is approximated by a Bézier curve so that the approximation error is minimized. Further, the performance and accuracy of the proposed techniques are compared with recent results obtained by different metaheuristic algorithms and analytical methods. The comparison is carried out in terms of various statistical error indicators, such as Individual Absolute Error (IAE), Relative Error (RE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Bias Errors (MBE), and Autocorrelation Function (ACF). The results obtained by the Bézier curve technique show an excellent agreement with experimental data and are more accurate than those obtained by other comparative techniques.
Differences in Environmental Information Acquisition from Urban Green—A Case Study of Qunli National Wetland Park in Harbin, China
Authors: Zhu Xun , Zhang Yaqian , Zhao Wei
Published: October 2020

(1) Environmental education in an urban setting is crucial in terms of building a harmonious relationship between man and nature. As a kind of special ecological habitat, urban wetland parks provide convenience to enhance education on the natural environment. (2) In this study, we chose Harbin Qunli National Wetland Park in China as the subject, and analyzed the visual attention area with eye tracking to explore the differences in obtaining information about the natural environment in tourists with varying degrees of environmental concern and purposes of visit. A model connecting the perception preference and factors that affect visual attention of tourists was constructed. (3) Studies have shown that eco-society-hedonic tourists, who focus on parent–child activities, tend to pay more attention to wetland plants and prefer exploratory paths, while eco-hedonic tourists, whose main purposes are to relax and exercise, are more concerned about explanatory signs and enjoy flat scenic paths more. In addition, social tourists, who pay their visit for social activities, would care more about bird watching structures. (4) This research aims to assist in improving the legibility of environmental education space through the planning, design, and management of urban wetland parks, and explore the potential of landscape elements in enhancing public awareness.
A Geometric Accuracy Error Analysis Method for Turn-Milling Combined NC Machine Tool
Authors: Li Pengzhong , Zhao Ruihan , Luo Liang
Published: October 2020

Turn-Milling Combined NC machine tool is different from traditional machine tools in structure and process realization. As an important means in the design stage, the analysis method of geometric accuracy error is also different from the traditional method. The actual errors and the error compensation values are a pair of "symmetry" data sets which are connected by the movement of machine tools. The authors try to make them more consistent through this work. The geometric error terms were firstly determined by topological structure analysis, then based on homogeneous coordinate transformation and multibody system theory, the geometric error model was established. With the interval theory, the function rule of sensitivity of geometric error sources to spatial errors was analyzed in detail, and the global maximum interval sensitivity of nine geometric error sources was extracted, providing a theoretical basis for error compensation and precision distribution. The geometric error sensitivity analysis method proposed in this paper can accurately evaluate the influence weights of each error term on the machining accuracy, and identify the important sensitive error terms with great influence on the machining accuracy from many error terms.
Method of Calculating the Vertical Displacement and Additional Stress of Existing Tunnels under the Influence of Grouting Rings of New Tunnels
Authors: Qi Yongjie , Wei Gang , Xie Yu
Published: October 2020

In order to reduce the disturbance to adjacent tunnels caused by tunnel crossing, the existing tunnels are often reinforced by setting grouting rings along the pipe piece ring. In this context, the volume expansion of the grouted soil has to be taken into account, and a mechanical model of the volume expansion of the grouting rings is proposed here to study the effect of the grouting rings of new tunnels on the additional stress on the existing tunnels as well as their vertical displacement. The additional stresses on and the vertical displacement of the axis of the existing tunnels caused by the expansion of the grouting rings were deduced based on the stochastic medium theory. The influences of various volumetric expansion rates (Q) of the grouting rings, different lengths of the grouting rings, and different tunnel crossing angles on the settlement of and the additional stress on the existing tunnels were studied. The results demonstrate that the grouting rings can effectively reduce the impacts of the additional stress and the settlement deformation on the existing tunnels. The results of the tunnel settlement obtained from the calculation method proposed in this paper are in good agreement with the measured engineering data.
A Joint Detection and Decoding Scheme for PC-SCMA System Based on Pruning Iteration
Authors: Zhang Yongxing , Ge Wenping , Zhang Pengju , Gao Mengyao , Zhang Gecheng
Published: October 2020

Polar coding and sparse code multiple access (SCMA) are key technologies for 5G mobile communication, the joint design of them has a great significance to improve the overall performance of the transmitter-receiver symmetric wireless communication system. In this paper, we firstly propose a pruning iterative joint detection and decoding algorithm (PI-JDD) based on the confidence stability of resource nodes. Branches to be updated are dynamically pruned to avoid redundant iterative, which is able to reduce 24~50% complexity while achieving the approximate error performance of traditional serial joint iterative detection and decoding algorithm S-JIDD. Then, to further reduce the bit error rate (BER) of the receiver, a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) termination mechanism is added at the end of each joint iteration to avoid the convergence error caused by decoding deviation. Simulation results show that the addition of an early stopping criterion can achieve a remarkable performance gain compared with the S-JIDD algorithm. More importantly, the combined algorithm of the two proposed schemes can reduce the computational complexity while achieving better error performance.
Mycotoxins: Biotransformation and Bioavailability Assessment Using Caco-2 Cell Monolayer
Authors: Tran Van Nguyen , Viktorová Jitka , Ruml Tomáš
Published: October 2020

The determination of mycotoxins content in food is not sufficient for the prediction of their potential in vivo cytotoxicity because it does not reflect their bioavailability and mutual interactions within complex matrices, which may significantly alter the toxic effects. Moreover, many mycotoxins undergo biotransformation and metabolization during the intestinal absorption process. Biotransformation is predominantly the conversion of mycotoxins meditated by cytochrome P450 and other enzymes. This should transform the toxins to nontoxic metabolites but it may possibly result in unexpectedly high toxicity. Therefore, the verification of biotransformation and bioavailability provides valuable information to correctly interpret occurrence data and biomonitoring results. Among all of the methods available, the in vitro models using monolayer formed by epithelial cells from the human colon (Caco-2 cell) have been extensively used for evaluating the permeability, bioavailability, intestinal transport, and metabolism of toxic and biologically active compounds. Here, the strengths and limitations of both in vivo and in vitro techniques used to determine bioavailability are reviewed, along with current detailed data about biotransformation of mycotoxins. Furthermore, the molecular mechanism of mycotoxin effects is also discussed regarding the disorder of intestinal barrier integrity induced by mycotoxins.
The Insecticidal Activity of Rhinella schneideri (Werner, 1894) Paratoid Secretion in Nauphoeta cinerea Cocroaches
Authors: Leal Allan , Karnopp Etiely , Barreto Yuri Correia , Oliveira Raquel Soares , Rosa Maria Eduarda , Borges Bruna Trindade , Goulart Flávia Luana , Souza Velci Queiróz de , Laikowski Manuela Merlin , Moura Sidnei , Vinadé Lúcia , Rocha João Batista Teixeira da , Dal Belo Cháriston André
Published: October 2020

Rhinella schneideri is a common toad found in South America, whose paratoid toxic secretion has never been explored as an insecticide. In order to evaluate its insecticidal potential, Nauphoeta cinerea cockroaches were used as an experimental model in biochemical, physiological and behavioral procedures. Lethality assays with Rhinella schneideri paratoid secretion (RSPS) determined the LD50 value after 24 h (58.07µg/g) and 48 h exposure (44.07 µg/g) (R2 = 0.882 and 0.954, respectively). Acetylcholinesterase activity (AChE) after RSPS at its highest dose promoted an enzyme inhibition of 40%, a similar effect observed with neostigmine administration (p < 0.001, n= 5). Insect locomotion recordings revealed that RSPS decreased the distance traveled by up to 37% with a concomitant 85% increase in immobile episodes (p < 0.001, n = 36). RSPS added to in vivo cockroach semi-isolated heart preparation promoted an irreversible and dose dependent decrease in heart rate, showing a complete failure after 30 min recording (p < 0.001, n ≥ 6). In addition, RSPS into nerve-muscle preparations induced a dose-dependent neuromuscular blockade, reaching a total blockage at 70 min at the highest dose applied (p < 0.001, n ≥ 6). The effect of RSPS on spontaneous sensorial action potentials was characterized by an increase in the number of spikes 61% (p < 0.01). Meanwhile, there was 42% decrease in the mean area of those potentials (p < 0.05, n ≥ 6). The results obtained here highlight the potential insecticidal relevance of RSPS and its potential biotechnological application.
Use of Integrative Interactomics for Improvement of Farm Animal Health and Welfare: An Example with Fescue Toxicosis
Authors: Mote Ryan S. , Filipov Nikolay M.
Published: October 2020

Rapid scientific advances are increasing our understanding of the way complex biological interactions integrate to maintain homeostatic balance and how seemingly small, localized perturbations can lead to systemic effects. The ‘omics movement, alongside increased throughput resulting from statistical and computational advances, has transformed our understanding of disease mechanisms and the multi-dimensional interaction between environmental stressors and host physiology through data integration into multi-dimensional analyses, i.e., integrative interactomics. This review focuses on the use of high-throughput technologies in farm animal research, including health- and toxicology-related papers. Although limited, we highlight recent animal agriculture-centered reports from the integrative multi-‘omics movement. We provide an example with fescue toxicosis, an economically costly disease affecting grazing livestock, and describe how integrative interactomics can be applied to a disease with a complex pathophysiology in the pursuit of novel treatment and management approaches. We outline how ‘omics techniques have been used thus far to understand fescue toxicosis pathophysiology, lay out a framework for the fescue toxicosis integrome, identify some challenges we foresee, and offer possible means for addressing these challenges. Finally, we briefly discuss how the example with fescue toxicosis could be used for other agriculturally important animal health and welfare problems.
Resonant Production of an Ultrarelativistic Electron–Positron Pair at the Gamma Quantum Scattering by a Field of the X-ray Pulsar
Authors: Yelatontsev Vadim A. , Roshchupkin Sergei P. , V. Dubov Viktor
Published: October 2020

The process of a resonant production of an ultrarelativistic electron–positron pair in the process of gamma-quantum scattering in the X-ray field of a pulsar is theoretically studied. This process has two reaction channels. Under resonant conditions, an intermediate electron (for a channel A) or a positron (for a channel B) enters the mass shell. As a result, the initial second-order process of the fine-structure constant in the X-ray field effectively splits into two first-order processes: the X-ray field-stimulated Breit–Wheeler process and the the X-ray field-stimulated Compton effect on an intermediate electron or a positron. The resonant kinematics of the process is studied in detail. It is shown that for the initial gamma quantum there is a threshold energy, which for the X-ray photon energy (1–102) keV has the order of magnitude (103–10) MeV. In this case, all the final particles (electron, positron, and final gamma quantum) fly in a narrow cone along the direction of the initial gamma quantum momentum. It is important to note that the energies of the electron–positron pair and the final gamma quantum depend significantly on their outgoing angles. The obtained resonant probability significantly exceeds the non-resonant one. The obtained results can be used to explain the spectrum of positrons near pulsars.
Universal Constants and Natural Systems of Units in a Spacetime of Arbitrary Dimension
Authors: Sheykin Anton , Manida Sergey
Published: October 2020

We study the properties of fundamental physical constants using the threefold classification of dimensional constants proposed by J.-M. Lévy-Leblond: constants of objects (masses, etc.), constants of phenomena (coupling constants), and “universal constants” (such as c and ℏ). We show that all of the known “natural” systems of units contain at least one non-universal constant. We discuss the possible consequences of such non-universality, e.g., the dependence of some of these systems on the number of spatial dimensions. In the search for a “fully universal” system of units, we propose a set of constants that consists of c, ℏ, and a length parameter and discuss its origins and the connection to the possible kinematic groups discovered by Lévy-Leblond and Bacry. Finally, we give some comments about the interpretation of these constants.
HBV Prevention and Treatment in Countries of Central Asia and the Caucasus
Authors: Amerzhanov Daulet , Suleimenova Indira , Davlidova Salima , Nugmanova Zhamilya , Ali Syed
Published: October 2020

The countries of Central Asia and the Caucasus are linked by travel and trade, which is promoted by visa-free mobility across borders. Unfortunately, this migrant mobility has given rise to the transmission of various infections within this region. Overlaps in culture, tradition, and behavior among these countries provide opportunities to share experiences that have proven effective in controlling transmission. Here we present a review of hepatitis B virus (HBV) prevalence, prevention and treatment across Central Asia and the Caucasus. Overall, owing to effective measures, while HBV prevalence has been steadily declining in the region, certain gaps still exist regarding the generation and availability of HBV infection data.
Wild Boar as a Sylvatic Reservoir of Hepatitis E Virus in Poland: A Cross-Sectional Population Study
Authors: Kozyra Iwona , Jabłoński Artur , Bigoraj Ewelina , Rzeżutka Artur
Published: October 2020

The most important wildlife species in the epidemiology of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections are wild boars, which are also the main reservoir of the virus in a sylvatic environment. The aim of the study was a serological and molecular assessment of the prevalence of HEV infections in wild boars in Poland. In total, 470 pairs of samples (wild boar blood and livers) and 433 samples of faeces were tested. An ELISA (ID.vet, France) was used for serological analysis. For the detection of HEV RNA, real-time (RT)-qPCR was employed. The presence of specific anti-HEV IgG antibodies was found in 232 (49.4%; 95%CI: 44.7–54%) sera, with regional differences observed in the seroprevalence of infections. HEV RNA was detected in 57 (12.1%, 95%CI: 9.3–15.4%) livers and in 27 (6.2%, 95%CI: 4.1–8.9%) faecal samples, with the viral load ranging from 1.4 to 1.7 × 1011 G.C./g and 38 to 9.3 × 107 G.C./mL, respectively. A correlation between serological and molecular results of testing of wild boars infected with HEV was shown. HEV infections in wild boars appeared to be common in Poland.
Expansion and Refinement of Deep Sequence-Coupled Biopanning Technology for Epitope-Specific Antibody Responses in Human Serum
Authors: Warner Nikole L. , Linville Alexandria C. , Core Susan B. , Moreno Brechla , Pascale Juan M. , Peabody David S. , Chackerian Bryce , Frietze Kathryn M.
Published: October 2020

Identifying the specific epitopes targeted by antibodies elicited in response to infectious diseases is important for developing vaccines and diagnostics. However, techniques for broadly exploring the specificity of antibodies in a rapid manner are lacking, limiting our ability to quickly respond to emerging viruses. We previously reported a technology that couples deep sequencing technology with a bacteriophage MS2 virus-like particle (VLP) peptide display platform for identifying pathogen-specific antibody responses. Here, we describe refinements that expand the number of patient samples that can be processed at one time, increasing the utility of this technology for rapidly responding to emerging infectious diseases. We used dengue virus (DENV) as a model system since much is already known about the antibody response. Sera from primary DENV-infected patients (n = 28) were used to pan an MS2 bacteriophage VLP library displaying all possible 10-amino-acid peptides from the DENV polypeptide. Selected VLPs were identified by deep sequencing and further investigated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We identified previously described immunodominant regions of envelope and nonstructural protein-1, as well as a number of other epitopes. Our refinement of the deep sequence-coupled biopanning technology expands the utility of this approach for rapidly investigating the specificity of antibody responses to infectious diseases.
NMR Studies of Retroviral Genome Packaging
Authors: Boyd Patricia S. , Brown Janae B. , Brown Joshua D. , Catazaro Jonathan , Chaudry Issac , Ding Pengfei , Dong Xinmei , Marchant Jan , O’Hern Colin T. , Singh Karndeep , Swanson Canessa , Summers Michael F. , Yasin Saif
Published: October 2020

Nearly all retroviruses selectively package two copies of their unspliced RNA genomes from a cellular milieu that contains a substantial excess of non-viral and spliced viral RNAs. Over the past four decades, combinations of genetic experiments, phylogenetic analyses, nucleotide accessibility mapping, in silico RNA structure predictions, and biophysical experiments were employed to understand how retroviral genomes are selected for packaging. Genetic studies provided early clues regarding the protein and RNA elements required for packaging, and nucleotide accessibility mapping experiments provided insights into the secondary structures of functionally important elements in the genome. Three-dimensional structural determinants of packaging were primarily derived by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. A key advantage of NMR, relative to other methods for determining biomolecular structure (such as X-ray crystallography), is that it is well suited for studies of conformationally dynamic and heterogeneous systems—a hallmark of the retrovirus packaging machinery. Here, we review advances in understanding of the structures, dynamics, and interactions of the proteins and RNA elements involved in retroviral genome selection and packaging that are facilitated by NMR.
Electrostatic Surface Properties of Blood and Semen Extracellular Vesicles: Implications of Sialylation and HIV-Induced Changes on EV Internalization
Authors: Kaddour Hussein , Panzner Tyler D. , Welch Jennifer L. , Shouman Nadia , Mohan Mahesh , Stapleton Jack T. , Okeoma Chioma M.
Published: October 2020

Although extracellular vesicle (EV) surface electrostatic properties (measured as zeta potential, ζ-potential) have been reported by many investigators, the biophysical implications of charge and EV origin remains uncertain. Here, we compared the ζ-potential of human blood EVs (BEVs) and semen EVs (SEVs) from 26 donors that were HIV-infected (HIV+, n = 13) or HIV uninfected (HIV-, n = 13). We found that, compared to BEVs that bear neutral surface charge, SEVs were significantly more negatively charged, even when BEVs and SEVs were from the same individual. Comparison of BEVs and SEVs from HIV- and HIV+ groups revealed subtle HIV-induced alteration in the ζ-potential of EVs, with the effect being more significant in SEVs (∆ζ-potential = −8.82 mV, p-value = 0.0062) than BEVs (∆ζ-potential = −1.4 mV, p-value = 0.0462). These observations were validated by differences in the isoelectric point (IEP) of EVs, which was in the order of HIV + SEV ≤ HIV-SEV ≪ HIV + BEV ≤ HIV-BEV. Functionally, the rate and efficiency of SEV internalization by the human cervical epithelial cell line, primary peripheral blood lymphocytes, and primary blood-derived monocytes were significantly higher than those of BEVs. Mechanistically, removal of sialic acids from the surface of EVs using neuraminidase treatment significantly decreased SEV’s surface charge, concomitant with a substantial reduction in SEV’s internalization. The neuraminidase effect was independent of HIV infection and insignificant for BEVs. Finally, these results were corroborated by enrichment of glycoproteins in SEVs versus BEVs. Taken together, these findings uncover fundamental tissue-specific differences in surface electrostatic properties of EVs and highlight the critical role of surface charge in EV/target cell interactions.
Stability of African Swine Fever Virus in Carcasses of Domestic Pigs and Wild Boar Experimentally Infected with the ASFV “Estonia 2014” Isolate
Authors: Fischer Melina , Hühr Jane , Blome Sandra , Conraths Franz J. , Probst Carolina
Published: October 2020

Europe is currently experiencing a long-lasting African swine fever (ASF) epidemic, both in domestic pigs and wild boar. There is great concern that carcasses of infected wild boar may act as long-term virus reservoirs in the environment. We evaluated the tenacity of ASF virus (ASFV) in tissues and body fluids from experimentally infected domestic pigs and wild boar, which were stored on different matrices and at different temperatures. Samples were analysed at regular intervals for viral genome and infectious virus. ASFV was most stable in spleen or muscles stored at −20 °C and in blood stored at 4 °C. In bones stored at −20 °C, infectious virus was detected for up to three months, and at 4 °C for up to one month, while at room temperature (RT), no infectious virus could be recovered after one week. Skin stored at −20 °C, 4 °C and RT remained infectious for up to three, six and three months, respectively. In urine and faeces, no infectious virus was recovered after one week, irrespective of the matrix. In conclusion, tissues and organs from decomposing carcasses that persist in the environment for a long time can be a source of infection for several months, especially at low temperatures.
Detection of Human Papillomaviruses in the Nasopharynx of Breastfed Infants: New Findings and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dassi Luisa , Annunziata Clorinda , Botti Chiara , Micillo Alberto , Cerasuolo Andrea , Starita Noemy , Buonaguro Franco M. , Tornesello Maria Lina
Published: October 2020

Vertical transmission of human papillomaviruses (HPVs) from mother to infant is known to occur during labor, delivery or breastfeeding. Infection with mucosal HPV 6 and 11 may cause recurrent respiratory papillomatosis in children, which is a rare and severe respiratory disease. The cutaneous HPV genotypes have also been described to be transmitted from mother to newborn through skin-to-skin contacts and during breastfeeding. To investigate the perinatal transmission of alpha and beta HPVs we collected nasopharyngeal specimens from 0–12-months-old infants born by vaginal delivery and breastfed at the time of sample collection. The mucosal and cutaneous HPVs were searched by nested PCR using the MY09/11-MGPs and CP65/70-CP66/69 primer sets, respectively, and genotypes identified by direct sequencing analysis. Fourteen out of 113 (12.4%) samples tested positive for HPV and sequence analysis allowed us to identify eight beta genotypes (HPV 5b, 20, 25, 100, 107, 124, 152 and RTRX7). Moreover, we performed a comprehensive review of published studies on the prevalence of mucosal and cutaneous HPVs among 5126 newborns and observed that 10% and 53% were positive for alpha and beta HPVs, respectively. In all studies there was an inverse correlation between the rate of alpha HPV positivity and age, while a significant positive trend was observed in beta HPV detection and age with the highest rate among children older than 12 months (Χ2 test for trend of 10.6, p < 0.001). Further studies are needed to confirm the hypothesis that beta HPVs are transmitted to breastfeeding infants through shedding of viruses in the breast milk or on the external breast epithelium.
Progress in L2-Based Prophylactic Vaccine Development for Protection against Diverse Human Papillomavirus Genotypes and Associated Diseases
Authors: Olczak Pola , Roden Richard B.S.
Published: October 2020

The human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are a family of small DNA tumor viruses including over 200 genotypes classified by phylogeny into several genera. Different genera of HPVs cause ano-genital and oropharyngeal cancers, skin cancers, as well as benign diseases including skin and genital warts. Licensed vaccines composed of L1 virus-like particles (VLPs) confer protection generally restricted to the ≤9 HPV types targeted. Here, we examine approaches aimed at broadening the protection against diverse HPV types by targeting conserved epitopes of the minor capsid protein, L2. Compared to L1 VLP, L2 is less immunogenic. However, with appropriate presentation to the immune system, L2 can elicit durable, broadly cross-neutralizing antibody responses and protection against skin and genital challenge with diverse HPV types. Such approaches to enhance the strength and breadth of the humoral response include the display of L2 peptides on VLPs or viral capsids, bacteria, thioredoxin and other platforms for multimerization. Neither L2 nor L1 vaccinations elicit a therapeutic response. However, fusion of L2 with early viral antigens has the potential to elicit both prophylactic and therapeutic immunity. This review of cross-protective HPV vaccines based on L2 is timely as several candidates have recently entered early-phase clinical trials.
Relationship between Citizens’ Health Engagement and Intention to Take the COVID-19 Vaccine in Italy: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Graffigna Guendalina , Palamenghi Lorenzo , Boccia Stefania , Barello Serena
Published: October 2020

The actual effectiveness of the still-to-come vaccination against the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 might be challenged by vaccine hesitancy, a rather common and known phenomenon whose psychological predictors are, nevertheless, still largely debated. Our study aims at understanding how adult citizens’ health engagement, perceived COVID-19 susceptibility and severity, and general vaccine-related attitudes affect the willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19. To that end, on a sample of Italian citizens, we implemented a path model to test the impact of health engagement on the willingness to vaccinate against SARS-CoV-2, and whether this relationship is direct or mediated by the general attitude towards vaccines and the risk perception. Moreover, we tested the configural and weak invariance of the model across gender and three age groups. Results show that health engagement is positively related to the intention to vaccinate and that this relationship is partially mediated by the general attitude towards vaccines. The model appears invariant across genders and partially invariant across age groups, showing some differences in the role of perceived susceptibility. These findings vouch for the implementation of educational campaigns aimed at sustaining future vaccination programs that also include health engagement promotion.
How Ultrasound Can Be Useful for Staging Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs: Ultrasound Findings in 855 Cases
Authors: Perondi Francesca , Lippi Ilaria , Marchetti Veronica , Bruno Barbara , Borrelli Antonio , Citi Simonetta
Published: October 2020

In patients affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD), some ultrasonographic (US) abnormalities have been shown to correlate better than others with the progression of the disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of the most frequent renal US abnormalities in dogs at different stages of CKD, and to investigate their association with CKD International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) stages. Medical records and ultrasonographical report of 855 dogs were retrospectively included. The most frequent renal ultrasonographic abnormalities were: increased cortical echogenicity, abnormal ratio of cortico-medullary junction (C/M) and pyelectasia. A statistically significant difference in the prevalence of irregular contour, abnormal cortico-medullary junction, abnormal C/M, increased cortical echogenicity, and pyelectasia was found for dogs at different IRIS stages. The number of dogs with more than one US abnormality increased significantly with the progression of IRIS stage. In conclusion, increased cortical echogenicity, abnormal C/M junction and pyelectasia were the most prevalent US abnormalities in our CKD population. Although none of the US abnormalities showed a significantly higher prevalence, the number of dogs presenting > 3 US abnormalities increased significantly from IRIS 2 to IRIS 4. Renal US is an excellent ancillary diagnostic test, which should be used together with renal functional parameters, to monitor the progression of CKD.
Effects of Early Nutrition and Sanitary Conditions on Oral Tolerance and Antibody Responses in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Hollemans Maarten S. , Reilingh Ger de Vries , Vries Sonja de , Parmentier Henk K. , Lammers Aart
Published: October 2020

Greater antigenic exposure might accelerate activation and maturation of the humoral immune system. After hatch, commercial broiler chickens can have early (EN) or delayed (DN) access to nutrition, up to 72 h after hatch. The immune system of EN versus DN broilers is likely more exposed to antigens after hatch. This might contribute to activation and maturation of the immune system, but might also influence the development of oral tolerance, thereby altering later life antibody responses. We studied antibody (IgM, IgY, IgA) responses between 21 and 42 d of age in fast-growing EN and DN broilers, kept under low (LSC) or high sanitary conditions (HSC). In a first experiment (n = 51 broilers), we tested whether early oral exposure to bovine serum albumin (BSA) affected later life antibody responses towards BSA and a novel antigen—rabbit γ-globulin (RGG), under HSC. In a second experiment, a total of 480 EN and DN broilers were housed under either LSC or HSC, and we studied antibody responses against both BSA and RGG (n = 48 broilers per treatment) and growth performance. Broilers kept under LSC versus HSC, had higher antibody levels and their growth performance was severely depressed. Interactions between feeding strategy (EN versus DN) and sanitary conditions, or main effects of feeding strategy, on natural and specific antibody levels, and growth performance were not observed. Levels of IgA were elevated in EN versus DN broilers, in experiment I and in batch 2 of experiment II, but not in the other batches of experiment II. We concluded that EN versus DN contributes minimally to the regulation of antibody responses, irrespective of antigenic pressure in the rearing environment.
A Vine Copula-Based Modeling for Identification of Multivariate Water Pollution Risk in an Interconnected River System Network
Authors: Yu Ruolan , Yang Rui , Zhang Chen , Špoljar Maria , Kuczyńska-Kippen Natalia , Sang Guoqing
Published: October 2020

The Interconnected River System Network (IRSN) has become a popular and useful measure to realize the long-term health and stability of water bodies. However, there are lots of uncertain consequences derived from natural and anthropogenic pressures on the IRSN, especially the water pollution risk. In our study, a Vine Copula-based model was developed to assess the water pollution risk in the IRSN. Taking the ponds around Nanyang station as research objects, we selected five proxy indicators from water quality indexes and eutrophication indexes, which included dissolved oxygen (DO), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), chlorophyll-a (Chla), and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N). Models based on three classes of vine copulas (C-, D-, and R-vine) were utilized respectively to identify the water quality indicators before and after the operation of the connection project. Our results showed that TN, Chla, and NH3-N should be considered as key risk factors. Moreover, we compared the advantages and prediction accuracy of C-, D-, and R-vine to discuss their applications. The results reveal that the Vine Copula-based modeling could provide eutrophication management reference and technical assistance in IRSN projects.
Heavy Metals in Wastewater and Sewage Sludge from Selected Municipal Treatment Plants in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Agoro Mojeed A. , Adeniji Abiodun O. , Adefisoye Martins A. , Okoh Omobola O.
Published: October 2020

This study assessed the distribution of five heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, and Fe) across the various stages of treatment in three selected sewage treatment facilities and their receiving waterbodies in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Aqueous and solid (sludge) samples were collected monthly from September 2015 to February 2016. Quantitation was achieved by atomic absorption spectrometry after necessary sample preparations. Concentrations of heavy metal cations in the sludge generally varied from <DL (below detection limit) to 1.17 mg kg−1, <DL to 0.14 mg kg−1, 27.588 to 69.789 mg kg−1, and <DL to 0.099 mg kg−1 for Cu, Cd, Fe and Pb; while Zn was below detection all through. Similarly, the levels of Cu, Cd, and Fe in the influents, effluents, upstream and downstream across the three plants ranged from <DL–6.588 mg L−1, <DL–0.636 mg L−1, <DL–0.878 mg L−1 and <DL–0.711 mg L−1, respectively; Zn and Pb were less than DL in all the matrices and study locations. All the contaminants were below hazardous levels in all the sludge and aqueous samples except Cd which was higher in effluents and surface waters across the board. Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP)-A exhibited better removal capacity for Fe (86.6%), compared to WWTP-B (34.7%) and WWTP-C (56.9%). However, the removal of Cu and Zn was very poor in all the treatment facilities studied. Carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks evaluated were sufficiently low. This suggests that the levels of contamination, even with respect to Cd, was minimal. Nevertheless, efforts should be made to keep the concentrations of these contaminants at levels safe for humans and aquatic organisms. Furthermore, the use of the effluents from these facilities for irrigation should be discouraged to prevent unnecessary build-up of metals in the soil and plants grown with such, as well as subsequent bioaccumulation and biomagnification in the food chain.
Environmental Hydraulics Research
Authors: Ramos Helena M. , Carravetta Armando , Nabola Aonghus Mc , Adeyeye Kemi
Published: October 2020

Environmental hydraulics research includes the different domains of hydrodynamics, such as the investigation and implementation of the physical and experimental applications, and research into the quantity, quality, modelling and simulation of the attributes associated with flowing water. This topic is studied both from a technical and environmental point of view, with the objective of protecting and enhancing the quality of the environment. It is a cross-disciplinary field of study which comprises open channel/river flows and pressurised systems, combining, among others, new technological, social, and environmental hydraulic challenges. It provides researchers and engineers working in water-related fields with available information, new concepts and tools, new design solutions, eco-friendly technologies, and the advanced materials necessary to address the increasing challenges of ensuring a sustainable water environment—that is, a water environment effectively managed and adequated for generations to come by promoting the adaptation, flexibility, integration and sustainability of recognised environmental solutions. Using advanced numerical and physical models in field experiments, and tests in different types of laboratory set-ups, specialists in environmental hydraulics produce the best analyses, concepts, techniques, tools, and solutions to environmental hydraulic problems, as well as in relation to the water, energy and environmental nexus.
On the coordination of the main parameters of state programs of the Russian Federation and state programs of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation
Authors: Gumerov R.R. , Guseva N.V. , Martishina
Published: October 2020

The article substantiates the methodological approaches to the formation of a single contour of the program and target management of the federal and regional levels on the example of the coordination of indicators of state programs of the Russian Federation and state programs of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. As one of the tools for forming a single managementcontour, a Unified Compliance Guide is proposed.
Formation of background of sustainable development and transition to the «green» economy strategy
Authors: Khalishkhova L.Z. , Temrokova A.Kh. , Guchapsheva I.R.
Published: October 2020

The article is devoted to the issues of measuring environmentally oriented economic development. The current stage of economic development requires the integration of environmental development, taking into account: environmental boundaries, biosphere processes, social problems, human needs and environmental processes. A green economy can become the main point of growth for the modern global economy. The article presents a complex of measures for the transition to a green economy, as well as tools for their implementation.
State support for the agri-food market: foreign and domestic practice
Authors: Gyatov A.V. , Mambetov A.Kh. , Shardanov A.A.
Published: October 2020

Agriculture plays a crucial role in the economy of any country. In this regard, the issue of state support for this industry is not in doubt. The experience and practice of the leading countries in the production and export of agricultural products has proved that this industry needs state regulation and support more than any other. This article discusses the most effective mechanisms and tools of state support used in countries with a high level of organization and management of agriculture. The article also considers the domestic practice of state regulation and support of the agri-food market and the possibility of applying foreign experience to Russian conditions.
Pengembangan Augmented Reality Sebagai Media Edukasi Pengetahuan Bencana Alam Gunung Berapi
Authors: Nurdiana Dian
Published: October 2020

Indonesia merupakan salah negara kepulauan yang diwilayahnya terdapat banyak gunung berapi, tercatat 76 gunung dinyatakan aktif yang tersebar di seluruh pulau yang ada di Indonesia. Bencana gunung berapi pun hampir terjadi setiap tahunnya dan sering menelan banyak korban jiwa. Salah satu contohnya pada tahun 2018 erupsi gunung anak Krakatau yang menyebabkan tsunami sehingga 432 korban jiwa meninggal dunia menurut data BNPB. Dari isu tersebut maka perlu sebuah upaya untuk edukasi dalam pengetahuan bencana gunung berapi bagi masyarakat supaya bisa mengurangi korban jiwa. Augmented reality merupakan salah satu media yang sedang hangat digunakan, sudah banyak beberapa bidang yang memanfaatkan media ini sebagai media edukasi. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah bagaimana mengembangkan aplikasi untuk edukasi bencana alam gunung berapi berbasis Augmented reality .Model yang digunakan untuk pengembangannya menggunakan model watelfall, sedangkan pengujiannya menggunakan black box testing dan OS yang digunakan untuk menjalankan aplikasi ini adalah berbasis Android. Adapun hasil penelitian ini adalah membuat sebuah media informasi dalam bentuk aplikasi mobile berbasis Augmented reality untuk media pengetahuan bencana alam gunung berapi, media yang akan dibuat diberi nama “simerapi”.
Segmentasi Pelanggan Produk Digital Service Indihome Menggunakan Algoritma K-Means Berbasis Python
Authors: Harani Nisa Hanum , Prianto Cahyo , Nugraha Fikri Aldi
Published: October 2020

PT. Telekomunikasi Indonesia adalah salah satu perusahaan yang mengedepankanpelanggan akan tetapi belum ada informasi tentang karakteristik pelanggan. Pada penelitian ini dilakukan analisa karakteristik pelanggan sebagai dasar penetapan segmentasi pelanggan dan customer profiling pelanggan produk digital service add on Indihome menggunakan Algoritma K-Means. Penentuan jumlah cluster terbaik dilakukan menggunakan metode Elbow dan diperoleh nilai K = 3, sehingga data pelanggan dikelompokkan kedalam tiga segmen. Pengolahan data pelanggan dibagi menjadi 3 simulasi dengan persentase data train dan data test 80% - 20%, 70% - 30% dan 50% - 50%. Data yang digunakan berjumlah 1392 record sebagai populasi imanadata tersebut akan digunakan untuk mencari karakteristik setiap data tersebut. Evaluasi cluster dilakukan menggunakan metode Silhouette Index, Davies Bouldin Index dan Calinski Harabasz Index. Hasil dari penelitian menunjukan bahwa simulasi ketiga merupakan simulasi terbaik berdasarka evaluasi cluster dengan presentasi data train 50% dan data test 50% dimana customer profiling dilihat dengan menganalisis anggota masing-masing cluster dari simulasi ketiga dimana cluster 0 memiliki anggota 396 pelanggan dengan kategori pelanggan yang memberikan keuntungan terbesar bagi perusahaan, cluster 1 memiliki anggota 286 pelanggan dengan kategori pelanggan yang tanpa disadari memiliki potensi besar dalam memberikan keuntungan bagi perusahaan, dan cluster 2 memiliki anggota 14 pelanggan dengan kategori pelanggan yang memberikan keuntungan lebih sedikit daripada biaya untuk memberikan pelayanan.