bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling of Changes in Four Urban Capitals Using Up-to-Date Information Systems and Mathematical Graph-Based Simulative Models for Urban Regeneration (Kaunas Case)
Authors: Zaleckis Kęstutis , Kamičaitytė Jūratė , Mlinkauskienė Aušra , Jankauskaitė-Jurevičienė Laura
Published: December 2022

There are numbers of various new infill constructions and renovations occurring in many cities annually that are based more on bottom-up initiatives by various stakeholders rather than top-down initiated plans according to a city master plan. Such infill modifications of urban structure might look small, not very numerous and insignificant at the first glance, but even small changes in a complex system such as a city can cause significant shifts in the functioning of the urban network. The presented research, developed on mathematical graph simulative modeling, including space syntax but not restricting the model to it, and employing the theory of four urban capitals by Lars Marcus, offers a way to analyze how the spatial, social, ecological and economic capitals of Kaunas will change if all the currently confirmed and publicly announced construction projects are implemented. The urban spatial network is seen as an integrator and enabler of interactions between the other three capitals. Each of the capitals is represented by quantitative data in the weighted mathematical graph: spatial capital by the perimeters of buildings accessible from a public space; social capital by the number of inhabitants; economic capital by the mean values of land prices; and ecological capital by the size of green areas and their infrastructure. All the data for modeling of changes in the capitals, except the future land prices, was based on information from implemented and planned projects. In order to predict them, a neural network tool was applied. Considering that changes in the absolute values of capitals are in essence limited by local context (e.g., number of inhabitants, market size, natural geographical conditions, and limits of spatial structure for densification), the idea of a positive synergy between urban capitals is proposed and explained in this article. All the presented simulation models are validated using independent open data as density of points of interests, etc. The results of the investigation reveal that synergy between capitals will decrease in Kaunas and that complex top-down coordination of bottom-up initiated urban projects is needed.
Estimating the Generation of Discarded Mobile Phones and Highlighting Areas for Recycling Precious Metals from Printed Circuit Boards in Thailand
Authors: Budnard Jariya , Khaodhiar Sutha
Published: December 2022

Over the last decade, Thailand imported approximately 21 million units of new mobile phones every year, equivalent to 262 million. While technology changes, consumers want the newest model to serve their lifestyle. These discarded mobile phones will be a challenging issue for waste management systems because of the metals in mobile phones, especially in printed circuit boards (PCBs). Sufficient and sustainable management is needed to maximize the benefits of recycling metals and minimize potential risks to public health. This study aims to estimate the possible range of DMP generation in Thailand (2012–2021) with the Approximation 2, Simple Delay, and Time Step methods using the government published data and a literature review. The results show that the discarded mobile phones ranged from approximately 1700 to 2500 tons/year, equivalent to 0.027 to 0.038 kg/year/capita over the last ten years. In 2021, more than half of the total mobile phone waste generated in the northeastern and central areas of Thailand was around 468.73 and 325.14 tons/year, respectively. Additionally, 1.28 tons of precious metals (Ag, Au), 5.33 tons of rare earth elements, and 7.26 tons of toxic metals (As, Cd, Cr, Pb) can be found in the PCB waste of DMPs.
Evaluation of Online and Offline Communication Skills in Higher Education
Authors: Cîrtiță-Buzoianu Cristina , Tzafilkou Katerina , Mâță Liliana , Amălăncei Brîndușa-Mariana
Published: December 2022

This study explores the offline and online communication skills of students in higher education. A total of 402 bachelor’s and master’s students from different study programs participated in the survey, such as education sciences, philology, communication sciences, and public relations. The evaluation was based on the scale of online and offline communication skills, which included four components: sociability, emotion decoding, self-disclosure, and assertiveness. The Mann–Whitney nonparametric statistical method was applied to examine the potential differences between the online and offline communication skills of students for the assessed variables of sociability, emotion detection, self-disclosure, and assertiveness. The statistical data analysis led to the following results: significantly higher online sociability; significantly higher online assertiveness; significantly higher offline emotion detection; significantly higher offline self-disclosure; bachelor’s students had significantly higher online skills than master’s students; and there were many differences between the various fields of specialization.
Design and Optimization of a Backup Renewable Energy Station for Photovoltaic Hybrid System in the New Jeddah Industrial City
Authors: Melaibari Ammar A. , Abdul-Aziz Abdullah M. , Abu-Hamdeh Nidal H.
Published: December 2022

This study aims to design and optimize a backup renewable energy station and possibility of the grid-connected hybrid photovoltaic (PV) power system for firms in 2nd Jeddah industrial city workshops. Wind and solar energy potentials were examined, and data from a variety of sources were obtained as part of the study process. It is important to utilize the application hybrid optimization model for electric renewables (HOMER) to evaluate relevant data as well as the suggested hybrid power system’s economic feasibility. The system’s payback is solely based on monthly grid bill savings and increased profits due to the absence of a power shortage. The most cost-effective system design is measured in terms of the original cost, ongoing cost, cost per unit, and total system net present value. As a result, fulfilling the load demand with 220 kW wind turbines and 500 kW solar PV is both cost-effective and efficient. The simulation results for the second scenario with a wind turbine show that a combination of a 500 kW PV, 300 kWh battery capacity, 22 kW wind turbine, and 315 kW converter is the most feasible solution for this case study, with SAR 4,433,658 net present cost (NPC) and SAR 0.1741 LCOE.
Safety Analysis and Emergency Response of Suspended Oil and Gas Pipelines Triggered by Natural Disasters
Authors: Yu Jin , Chen Chao , Li Changjun
Published: December 2022

Pipelines play a dominant role in the transportation of oil and gas and the safety of pipelines is essential for the supply of energy. However, natural disasters such as floods and land subsidence may lead to suspended pipelines, resulting in pipeline failure accidents, causing casualties and environmental pollution. To deal with the emergency caused by suspended pipelines, it is needed to identify the failure mechanisms of suspended pipelines caused by natural disasters. Therefore, this study conducts a safety analysis of suspended pipelines using a nonlinear finite element method (FEM), considering the nonlinear pipe–soil contact and plastic deformation. A case study is conducted to investigate the influencing parameters (e.g., the suspended length, the operating pressure, and the fluid mass). This work demonstrates that irreversible plastic strains occur when the suspended length exceeds 50 m, and it will reach 2% when the suspended length is 340 m. Finally, an emergency response plan based on plastic strain and suspended length is proposed to determine the emergency level of the suspended pipelines caused by natural disasters. This study can provide technical support for the emergency response of pipelines in areas with frequent natural disasters, promoting the sustainable development of oil and natural gas pipelines.
The Impact of Sustainability Practices on the Going Concern of the Travel and Tourism Industry: Evidence from Developed and Developing Countries
Authors: Nagendrakumar Nagalingam , Alwis Kalubowilage Navodya Nilupulee , Eshani Udage Arachchige Kaveesha , Kaushalya Seekku Baduge Ushani
Published: December 2022

Sustainability refers to the evaluation and communication of quantitative and qualitative information of the sustainability performance of a business in a balanced way regarding the environment and the society in which it operates. Companies are responsible for stakeholders’ justification and disclosure expenses consisting of dedicated sustainability practices, thereby strengthening the company’s financial performance. However, due to the deficiency of consistent information and a lack of transparency in corporate reporting, tourism industries fail to realize the association between sustainability practices and financial performance. Moreover, there is a lack of literature that deals with the impact of macro-level sustainability factors on firms’ financial performances. Furthermore, linking the going concern concept and sustainable practices with financial performance through the Z-score model is not frequently done in the corporate world. Hence, this paper investigated the impact of macro-level sustainability practices on the going concern ability in developed and developing countries’ tourism industries for the 2016–2020 period, including a sample size of 138 listed companies, through panel data analysis. This study fills the empirical gap by adopting the Altman Z-score to analyze the financial performance related to sustainability practices in terms of environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The empirical results reveal that macro-level sustainability practices significantly impact the going concern from developed and developing countries’ perspectives.
Spatiotemporal Evolution of Seasonal Crop-Specific Climatic Indices under Climate Change in Greece Based on EURO-CORDEX RCM Simulations
Authors: Mavromatis Theodoros , Georgoulias Aristeidis K. , Akritidis Dimitris , Melas Dimitris , Zanis Prodromos
Published: December 2022

This study presents an updated assessment of the projected climate change over Greece in the near future (2021–2050) and at the end of the 21st century (2071–2100) (EOC), relative to the reference period 1971–2000, and focusing on seasonal crop-specific climatic indices. The indices include days (d) with: a maximum daily near-surface temperature (TASMAX) > 30 °C in Spring, a TASMAX > 35 °C in Summer (hot days), a minimum daily near-surface temperature (TASMIN) < 0 °C (frost days) in Spring, a TASMIN > 20 °C (tropical nights) in Spring–Summer and the daily precipitation (PR) > 1 mm (wet days) in Spring and Summer covering the critical periods in which wheat, tomatoes, cotton, potato, grapes, rice and olive are more sensitive to water and/or temperature stress. The analysis is based on an ensemble of 11 EURO-CORDEX regional climate model simulations under the influence of a strong, a moderate, and a no mitigation Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP2.6, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively). The indices related to TASMAX are expected to increase by up to 11 days in Spring and 40 days in Summer, tropical nights to rise by up to 50 days, frost days to decrease by up to 20 days, and wet days to decline by up to 9 days in Spring and Summer, at the EOC with an RCP8.5. The increased heat stress and water deficit are expected to have negative crop impacts, in contrast to the positive effects anticipated by the decrease in frost days. This study constitutes a further step towards identifying the commodities and/or regions in Greece which, under climate change, are or will be significantly impacted.
Responsible Management in the Hotel Industry: An Integrative Review and Future Research Directions
Authors: Liang Yuan , Watters Casey , Lemański Michał K.
Published: December 2022

In this study, we map the fast-growing body of knowledge on responsible management in the hotel industry. We aimed to provide scholars with guidance on navigating the rich and diverse scholarship on this topic, and where to engage to develop it further. Using a mixed-method review approach encompassing quantitative and qualitative elements, we reviewed the last decade of publications in journals specializing in research on hotels. On this basis, we identify critical areas as well as potential gaps in research on responsible management in the hotel industry. By scrutinizing research contexts, methods, theoretical approaches, levels of analysis, and findings, we synthesize and profile current scholarship, identify established and emerging trends, and discuss implications for scholarship and management practice, with critical or even provocative observations to guide possible theoretical and empirical extensions as well as fruitful avenues for future research.
Classification and Prediction of Sustainable Quality of Experience of Telecommunication Service Users Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Banjanin Milorad K. , Stojčić Mirko , Danilović Dejan , Ćurguz Zoran , Vasiljević Milan , Puzić Goran
Published: December 2022

The quality of experience (QoE) of the individual user of telecommunication services is one of the most important criteria for choosing the service package of mobile providers. To evaluate the sustainability of QoE, this paper uses indicators of user satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the quality of network services (QoS), especially with conversational, streaming, interactive and background classes of traffic in networks. The importance of knowing the impact of selected combinations of paired legal–regulatory, technological–process, content-formatted and performative, contextual–relational and subjective user-influencing factors on QoE sustainability is investigated using a multiple linear regression model created in Minitab statistical software, machine learning model based on boosted decision trees created in the MATLAB software package and predictive models created by using an automatic modeling method. The classification of influence factors and their matching for the analysis of interaction fields of users and services aim to mark QoE as sustainable by determining the accuracy of the weight of subjective ratings of user satisfaction indicators as transitional variables in the predictive model of QoE. The hypothetical setting is that the individual user’s curiosity, creativity, communication, personality, courage, confidence, charisma, competence, common sense and memory are adequate transition variables in a sustainable QoE model. Using the applied methodology with an original research approach, data were collected on the evaluations of research variables from anonymous users of mobile operators in the geo-space of Republika Srpska and B&H. By treating the data with mathematical and machine learning models, the QoE assessment was performed at the level of an individual user, and after that, several models were created for the prediction and classification of QoEi. The results show that the relative error (RE) of the predictive models, created over the collected dataset, is insufficiently low, so the improvement of the prediction performance was achieved via data augmentation (DA). In this way, the relative prediction error is reduced to a value of RE = 0.247. The DA method was also applied for the creating a classification model, which at best demonstrated an accuracy of 94.048%.
Some Enhanced Distance Measuring Approaches Based on Pythagorean Fuzzy Information with Applications in Decision Making
Authors: Wu Keke , Ejegwa Paul Augustine , Feng Yuming , Onyeke Idoko Charles , Johnny Samuel Ebimobowei , Ahemen Sesugh
Published: December 2022

The construct of Pythagorean fuzzy distance measure (PFDM) is a competent measuring tool to curb incomplete information often encountered in decision making. PFDM possesses a wider scope of applications than distance measure under intuitionistic fuzzy information. Some Pythagorean fuzzy distance measure approaches (PFDMAs) have been developed and applied in decision making, albeit with some setbacks in terms of accuracy and precision. In this paper, some novel PFDMAs are developed with better accuracy and reliability rates compared to the already developed PFDMAs. In an effort to validate the novel PFDMAs, some of their properties are discussed in terms of theorems with proofs. In addition, some applications of the novel PFDMAs in problems of disease diagnosis and pattern recognition are discussed. Furthermore, we present comparative studies of the novel PFDMAs in conjunction to the existing PFDMAs to buttress the merit of the novel approaches in terms of consistency and precision. To end with, some new Pythagorean fuzzy similarity measuring approaches (PFDSAs) based on the novel PFDMAs are presented and applied to solve the problems of disease diagnosis and pattern recognition as well.
Recent Progress in Studies of Stability of Numerical Schemes
Authors: Lakoba Taras I. , Micula Sanda
Published: December 2022

Applications and modeling of various phenomena in all areas of scientific research require finding numerical solutions for differential, partial differential, integral, or integro-differential equations. In addition to proving theoretical convergence and giving error estimates, stability of numerical methods for such operator equations is a fundamental property that it is necessary for the method to produce a valid solution. This Special Issue focuses on new theoretical and numerical studies concerning the techniques used for proving stability or instability of numerical schemes, which extend or improve known results. It also includes applications to non-linear physical, chemical, and engineering systems, arising in dynamics of waves, diffusion, or transport problems.
The Status and Research Progress of Cadmium Pollution in Rice- (Oryza sativa L.) and Wheat- (Triticum aestivum L.) Cropping Systems in China: A Critical Review
Authors: Gao Yue , Duan Zengqiang , Zhang Lingxiao , Sun Da , Li Xun
Published: December 2022

The accumulation of cadmium in rice (Oryza sativa L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a serious threat to the safe use of farmland and to the health of the human diet that has attracted extensive attention from researchers. In this review, a bibliometric analysis was performed using a VOS viewer (1.6.18, Netherlands) to investigate the status of cadmium contamination in rice and wheat growing systems, human health risks, mechanisms of Cd uptake and transport, and the corresponding research hotspots. It has a certain reference value for the prevention and control of cadmium pollution in rice and wheat planting systems in China and abroad. The results showed that the Cd content in rice and wheat planting systems in the Yangtze River Basin was significantly higher than that in other areas of China, and the Cd content in rice and wheat grains and the hazard quotient (HQ) in Hunan Province was the highest. The average Cd concentration exceeded the recommended limit by about 62% for rice and 81% for wheat. The main reasons for the high Cd pollution in rice and wheat growing areas in Hunan are mining activities, phosphate fertilizer application, sewage irrigation, and electronic equipment manufacturing. In this review, we demonstrate that cadmium toxicity reduces the uptake and transport of essential elements in rice and wheat. Cadmium stress seriously affected the growth and morphology of plant roots. In the shoots, Cd toxicity was manifested by a series of physiological injuries, such as decreased photosynthesis, soluble protein, sugar, and antioxidant enzyme activity. Cadmium that accumulates in the shoots is transferred to grains and then passes up the food chain to people and animals. Therefore, methods for reducing cadmium content in grains of rice and wheat are urgently needed, especially in Cd-contaminated soil. Current research on Cd pollution in rice and wheat planting systems focuses on the bioavailability of Cd, soil rhizosphere changes in wheat and rice, and the role of antioxidant enzyme systems in alleviating heavy metal stress in rice and wheat.
Assessment of Maize Hybrids Resistance to Aspergillus Ear Rot and Aflatoxin Production in Environmental Conditions in Serbia
Authors: Barošević Tijana , Bagi Ferenc , Savić Zagorka , Ljubičić Nataša , Ivanović Ivana
Published: December 2022

Aflatoxin, a naturally occurring toxin produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus, is the most economically important mycotoxin in the world, with harmful effects on human and animal health. Preventive measures such as irrigation and planting dates can minimize aflatoxin contamination most years. However, no control strategy is completely effective when environmental conditions are extremely favorable for growth of the fungus. The most effective control method is growing maize hybrids with genetic resistance to aflatoxin contamination. The aim of this research was to evaluate the sensitivity of different maize hybrids to A. flavus infection and aflatoxin accumulation. Twenty commercial maize hybrids were evaluated in field trials with artificial inoculations using the colonized toothpicks method. The mycotoxin production potential of A. flavus isolates was confirmed by cluster amplification patterns (CAPs) analysis. The results of this research indicated the existence of significant differences in maize hybrids susceptibility to Aspergillus ear rot and aflatoxin B1 accumulation. No hybrid included in this research showed complete resistance in all conditions, but some hybrids showed partial resistance. Different hybrids also responded differently depending on the sowing date. This research showed that infection intensity is not always consistent with aflatoxin levels, and therefore visual evaluation is not enough to assess maize safety.
SARS-CoV-2 Seroprevalence in Unvaccinated Adults in Thailand in November 2021
Authors: Mahasirimongkol Surakameth , Uppapong Ballang , Puangtubtim Wiroj , Dhepakson Panadda , Panyajai Parnuphan , Thawong Naphatcha , Pinyosukhee Nadthanan , Rojanawiwat Archawin , Wichukchinda Nuanjun , Soonthorncharttrawat Sakulrat , Larpardisorn Kanisorn , Amonyingcharoen Sumet , Juntaped Kritchai , Chaiyakum Tassanee , Tongkamsen Chayada , Srilaket Jeerapa , Chipatoom Jiratikamon , Wichajarn Rattanawadee , Chatchawankanpanich Nutchanat , Pattarapreeyakul Lapasrada , Chaiya Porntip , Mongkolsiri Kaveewan , Tuntigumthon Suthida , Sophondilok Kritsamon , Saengtong Nalinee , Jongpitisub Kodcharad , Sirilak Supakit
Published: December 2022

Between the first case of COVID-19 in January 2020 and the end of 2021, Thailand experienced four waves of the epidemic. The third and fourth waves were caused by the alpha and delta strains from April 2021 to November 2021. Serosurveillance studies provide snapshots of the true scale of the outbreak, including the asymptomatic infections that could not be fully captured by a hospital-based case detection system. We aimed to investigate the distribution of SARs-CoV-2 seroprevalence in unvaccinated adults after the delta wave outbreak. From November to December 2021, we conducted a cross-sectional survey study in 12 public health areas (PHAs) across Thailand. A total of 26,717 blood samples were collected and tested for SARs-CoV-2 antibodies (anti-S IgG) using a qualitative immunoassay. The results showed that seropositive prevalence in this cohort was 1.4% (95% CI: 1.24 to 1.52). The lowest prevalence was in the northern region (PHA 1) and in central Thailand (PHA 3) at 0.4% (95% CI: 0.15 to 0.95), while the highest was in the southern region of Thailand (PHA 12) at 5.8% (95% CI: 4.48 to 7.29). This seropositive prevalence was strikingly lower than the reports from other countries. Our serosurveillance results suggest that the vaccination of unvaccinated groups should be accelerated, especially in the public health areas with the lowest seroprevalence.
COVID-19: Impact of Original, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron Variants of SARS-CoV-2 in Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Pregnant and Postpartum Women
Authors: Serra Fabiano Elisei , Rosa Junior Elias Ribeiro , de Rossi Patricia , Francisco Rossana Pulcineli Vieira , Rodrigues Agatha Sacramento
Published: December 2022

This study compares the clinical characteristics and disease progression among vaccinated and unvaccinated pregnant and postpartum women who tested positive for different variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) using the Brazilian epidemiological data. Data of pregnant or postpartum patients testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 and presenting with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from February 2020 to July 2022 were extracted from Brazilian national database. The patients were grouped based on vaccination status and viral variant (original, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron variants), and their demographics, clinical characteristics, comorbidities, symptoms, and outcomes were compared retrospectively. Data of 10,003 pregnant and 2361 postpartum women were extracted from the database. For unvaccinated postpartum women, intensive care unit (ICU) admission was more likely; invasive ventilation need was more probable if they tested positive for the original, Gamma, and Omicron variants; and chances of death were higher when infected with the original and Gamma variants than when infected with other variants. Vaccinated patients had reduced adverse outcome probability, including ICU admission, invasive ventilation requirement, and death. Postpartum women showed worse outcomes, particularly when unvaccinated, than pregnant women. Hence, vaccination of pregnant and postpartum women should be given top priority.
Peripheral Nervous System Adverse Events after the Administration of mRNA Vaccines: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Large-Scale Studies
Authors: Lai Yu-Hsin , Chen Hong-Yu , Chiu Hsin-Hui , Kang Yi-No , Wong Shi-Bing
Published: December 2022

Although neurological complications after the administration of vaccines against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are rare, they might result in long-term morbidity. This study was designed to determine the risk of peripheral nervous system (PNS) adverse events after the administration of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19. Large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies were systematically searched in databases, and 15 cohort studies were included in the synthesis. Among all PNS adverse events, only Bell’s palsy and Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) had sufficient data and were included for further analysis. Individuals who received mRNA vaccines had a higher risk of Bell’s palsy than the unvaccinated group, and the risk of Bell’s palsy after BNT162b2 was significantly higher than after mRNA-1273. Regarding GBS, no significant difference in the risk was observed between BNT162b2 and the unvaccinated group, but BNT126b2 introduced a higher risk of post-vaccinated GBS than mRNA-1273. In conclusion, PNS adverse events, especially Bell’s palsy, should be carefully observed after mRNA vaccination against COVID-19. With the opportunity of vaccination campaigns on such a large scale, further investigation and surveillance of post-vaccination neurological adverse events should also be established.
Efficacy of a Novel Multiepitope Vaccine Candidate against Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Serotype O and A
Authors: Chathuranga W. A. Gayan , Hewawaduge Chamith , Nethmini N. A. Nadeeka , Kim Tae-Hwan , Kim Ju Hun , Ahn Young-Hoon , Yoon In-Joong , Yoo Sung-Sik , Park Jong-Hyeon , Lee Jong-Soo
Published: December 2022

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious and economically devastating disease in cloven-hoofed animals. To prevent the spread of FMD virus (FMDV), traditional inactivated vaccines are used to immunize susceptible animals in disease-endemic countries. However, the inactivated FMD vaccine has several limitations, including safety concerns. To overcome these limitations, subunit proteins have been studied as alternative vaccine candidates. In this study, we designed two multiepitope recombinant proteins (OVM and AVM) containing antigenic sites (residue of VP1 132–162 and residue of VP1 192–212) of three topotypes of FMDV serotype O or three topotypes of FMDV serotype A. Each recombinant protein was efficiently expressed in Escherichia coli with high solubility, and the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of the proteins as FMD vaccine candidates were evaluated. The results showed that OVM and AVM emulsified with ISA201 adjuvant induced effective antigen-specific humoral and cell-mediated immune responses and successfully protected mice from O/Jincheon/SKR/2014, O/VET/2013, and A/Malaysia/97 viruses. In addition, intramuscular immunization of pigs with the OVM and AVM emulsified with ISA201 elicited effective levels of neutralizing antibodies to the viruses with homologous epitopes. Importantly, OVM-AVM emulsified with CAvant®SOE-X adjuvant conferred 100% protection against the O/Jincheon/SKR/2014 virus with homologous residues and 75% protection against A/SKR/GP/2018 with heterologous residues. The results presented in this study suggest that the combination of OVM and AVM protein with an effective adjuvant could yield an effective and safe vaccine candidate for the prevention and control of foot-and-mouth disease. In addition, our results provide a vaccine platform that can safely, cost-efficiently, and rapidly generate protective vaccine candidates against diverse FMDVs.
Growth Performance, Survival, Blood Chemistry, and Immune Gene Expression of Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) Fed Probiotic-Supplemented Diets
Authors: Nguyen Khanh Q. , Bruce Timothy J. , Afe Oluwafunmilola E. , Liles Mark R. , Beck Benjamin H. , Davis Donald Allen
Published: December 2022

The channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) farming industry is the largest and one of the oldest aquaculture industries in the United States. Despite being an established industry, production issues stemming from disease outbreaks remain problematic for producers. Supplementing fish diets with probiotics to enhance the immune system and growth potential is one approach to mitigating disease. Although considerable laboratory data demonstrate efficacy, these results do not always translate to natural modes of disease transmission. Hence, the present work was conducted in the laboratory but incorporated flow-through water from large catfish pond production systems, allowing for natural exposure to pathogens. Two feeding trials were conducted in an 18-tank aquaria system housing two different sizes, 34.8 ± 12.5 g and 0.36 ± 0.03 g, of channel catfish. Channel catfish in the first trial were fed three experimental diets over six weeks. Commercial diets were top-coated with two selected spore-forming Bacillus spp. probiotics, Bacillus velezensis AP193 (1 × 106 CFU g−1) and BiOWiSH (3.6 × 104 CFU g−1), or a basal diet that contained no dietary additive. In the second eight-week trial, diets were top-coated with BiOWiSH at three concentrations (1.8, 3.6, and 7.3 × 104 CFU g−1), along with one basal diet (no probiotic). At the completion of these studies, growth performance, survival, hematocrit, blood chemistry, and immune expression of interleukin 1β (il1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (tnf-α), interleukin-8 (il8), transforming-growth factor β1 (tgf-β1), and toll-like receptor 9 (tlr9) were evaluated using qPCR. Trial results revealed no differences (p > 0.05) among treatments concerning growth, survival, or hematological parameters. For immune gene expression, interesting trends were discerned, with substantial downregulation observed in B. velezensis AP193-fed fish for il1β, tnf-α, and tlr9 expression within splenic tissue, compared to that of the basal and BiOWiSH diets (p < 0.05). However, the results were not statistically significant for anterior kidney tissue in the first trial. In the second trial, varied levels of probiotic inclusion revealed no significant impact of BiOWiSH’s products on the expression of il1β, tnf-α, il8, and tgf-β1 in both spleen and kidney tissue at any rate of probiotic inclusion (p > 0.05). Based on these findings, more research on utilizing probiotics in flow-through systems with natural infection conditions is crucial to ensure consistency from a controlled laboratory scale to real-world practices.
Primary Ovarian Leiomyoma in a White Tiger (Panthera tigris)
Authors: Iaria Carmelo , Ieni Antonio , Cicero Luca , Briguglio Giovanni , Di Maria Salvatore , Abbate Jessica Maria
Published: December 2022

Ovarian leiomyomas are very rare in domestic cats and occasionally mentioned in studies reporting general pathological findings and neoplasm occurrence in non-domestic large felids. This report describes a case of ovarian leiomyoma in a 22-year-old white tiger (Panthera tiger), treated with deslorelin implants, detailing pathological and immunohistochemical characteristics. Gross examination revealed a markedly enlarged, firm, whitish right ovary with a multinodular appearance. On a cut surface, multiple brown-fluid-filled cysts interspersed with solid grey-to-white areas were observed. On histopathological examination, the ovary was enlarged and replaced by a densely cellular neoplasm composed of spindle cells arranged in fascicles, or occasionally in a herringbone pattern, embedded in a large stroma of collagenous connective tissue. Neoplastic cells showed mild nuclear atypia and pleomorphism and low mitotic rate. Immunohistochemistry confirmed smooth muscle origin of the neoplasm, and cells were positive for vimentin, alpha-smooth muscle actin, desmin, and caldesmon. A low rate (<1%) of Ki-67-positive cells was observed. Although rare, ovarian leiomyoma should be considered when a mass is present in the ovary of a tiger with reproductive failure. Because cancer of the reproductive system impacts on species conservation by affecting reproduction, regular health monitoring is warranted to support wildlife conservation. Finally, the adverse effects associated with long-term treatment with synthetic GnRH analogues as contraceptives in non-domestic felids are worthy of future investigation.
Activin A Reduces Porcine Granulosa Cells Apoptosis via ERβ-Dependent ROS Modulation
Authors: Chen Fang , Zhu Xiaoqing
Published: December 2022

Unfavorable conditions compromise animal reproduction by altering the ovarian granulosa cells’ follicular dynamics and normal physiological function (GCs), eventually resulting in oxidative damage and cell apoptosis. Activin is produced in the GCs and plays a vital role in folliculogenesis. This study investigated the effects of activin A (ACT-A) treatment in vitro on the apoptosis of porcine GCs and the underlying molecular mechanism. We found that ACT-A could attenuate the apoptosis of the GCs and enhance the synthesis of estrogen (E2). ACT-A also enhanced FSH-induced estrogen receptor-β (ERβ) expression, inhibiting ERβ aggravated intracellular accumulation of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis. The E2 levels in the culture medium, the mRNA expression pattern of the apoptosis-related genes (CASPASE 3, BCL2, and BAX), steroidogenesis-related gene (CYP19A1), and cell viability were analyzed to confirm the results. In summary, this study indicated the protective role of ACT-A in apoptosis by attenuating the ROS accumulation through ERβ. These results aim to enhance the follicular functions and improve animal reproductive performance.
Cholesterols, Apolipoproteins, and Their Associations with the Presence and Severity of Diabetic Retinopathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Soedarman Soefiandi , Kurnia King Hans , Prasetya Alberthus Donni Budi , Sasongko Muhammad Bayu
Published: December 2022

Serum apolipoproteins have been reported as a more significant marker for diabetic retinopathy (DR) compared with serum cholesterols. This article aims to review the associations between serum cholesterols and apolipoproteins, and the presence and severity of DR. The protocol of this systematic review was registered at the PROSPERO registry (CRD42022303331). We conducted a systematic search of literature published between 2011 to 2022 using the search terms “serum cholesterol” AND/OR “lipoprotein” AND/OR “apolipoprotein” AND/OR “diabetic retinopathy”. Fifteen studies were included in this review. Six studies assessed the association between serum cholesterols, apolipoproteins, and the presence of DR. Three studies reported lower levels of apolipoprotein A1, and one study reported higher levels of apolipoprotein B in patients with DR. The remaining nine studies compared serum cholesterol and apolipoprotein levels according to DR severity. Patients with more severe grades of DR presented with lower apolipoprotein A1 in six (66.7%) studies, higher apolipoprotein B levels in seven (77.8%) studies, and a higher apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A1 ratio in six out of seven (85%) studies. In conclusion, serum apolipoproteins, in particular the apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A1 ratio, were a more consistent marker for DR severity compared with serum cholesterols.
Evaluation of the Adsorptive Performances of Rapeseed Waste in the Removal of Toxic Metal Ions in Aqueous Media
Authors: Arsenie Teodora , Cara Irina Gabriela , Popescu Maria-Cristina , Motrescu Iuliana , Bulgariu Laura
Published: December 2022

Rapeseed seeds are one of the most important categories of raw materials used to obtain biofuels. However, the biomass resulting after oil extraction is still considered waste, for which valorization solutions are sought. In this study, we propose the use of this type of residual biomass (rapeseed waste biomass (RWB)) as a biosorbent for the removal of toxic metal ions from aqueous media. Two toxic metal ions were selected for the experimental studies, namely: Pb(II) and Hg(II). The optimal biosorption conditions, for both metal ions, were selected based on response surface methodology and were verified experimentally in batch systems. More than 92% of the initial amount of Pb(II) and Hg(II) are retained under the following conditions: pH = 6.5 for Pb(II) and 4.0 for Hg(II); biosorbent dosage = 4.0 g/L; contact time = 3 h; temperature = 25 ± 1 °C. Isotherm (Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin models) and kinetic (pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order and intra-particle diffusion models) modelling of the experimental data were used for the quantitative evaluation of both biosorption processes. Although the Langmuir maximum biosorption capacities are different (higher in the case of Pb(II) (61.97 mg/g) than in the case of Hg(II) (51.32 mg/g)), the pseudo-second order kinetic constants have the same order of magnitude. This shows that the retention of both metal ions involves similar elementary steps and that RWB behaves as a typical biosorbent. These characteristics, together with the very good desorption behavior, provide a complete picture of the possible applications of this waste in environmental decontamination processes.
Flow Hydrodynamic in Open Channels: A Constantly Evolving Topic
Authors: Ben Meftah Mouldi
Published: December 2022

Streams and riverbeds are subject to considerable hydromorphological alterations due to the interaction of their flow with natural or man-made structures found throughout them, i [...]
Channel Bed Adjustment of the Lowermost Yangtze River Estuary from 1983 to 2018: Causes and Implications
Authors: Tang Ming , Cheng Heqin , Xu Yijun , Hu Hao , Zheng Shuwei , Wang Bo , Yang Zhongyong , Teng Lizhi , Xu Wei , Zhang Erfeng , Li Jiufa
Published: December 2022

Deltaic channels are significant landforms at the interface of sediment transfer from land to oceanic realms. Understanding the dynamics of these channels is urgent because delta processes are sensitive to climate change and adjustments in human activity. To obtain a better understanding of the morphological processes of large deltaic channels, this study assessed the evolution and response mechanism of the South Channel and South Passage (SCSP) in the Yangtze Estuary between 1983 to 2018 using hydrology, multibeam echo sounding and historical bathymetry datasets. Decadal changes in riverbed volume and erosion/deposition patterns in the SCSP were assessed. The results showed that the SCSP experienced substantial deposition with a total volume of 26.90 × 107 m3 during 1983–2002, but significant bed erosion with a total volume of 26.04 ×107 m3 during 2003–2010. From 2011 to 2018, the estuarine riverbeds shifted from erosive to depositional, even though the deposition was relatively marginal (0.76 ×107 m3). We inferred that the SCSP have most likely changed from a net erosion phase to a deposition stage in response to local human activities including sand mining, river regulation project, and Deep Water Channel Regulation Project). The channel aggradation will possibly continue considering sea level rise and the ongoing anthropogenic impacts. This is the first field evidence reporting that the lowermost Yangtze River is reaching an equilibrium state in terms of channel erosion and, in fact, the Yangtze River Estuary channels are beginning to aggrade. The findings have relevant implications for the management of the Yangtze River and other lowland alluvial rivers in the world as global sea level continues rising and human intervention on estuarine systems persists.
Ecotoxicological and Chemical Approach to Assessing Environmental Effects from Pesticide Use in Organic and Conventional Rice Paddies
Authors: Onorati Fulvio , Tornambé Andrea , Paina Andrea , Maggi Chiara , Sesta Giulio , Berducci Maria Teresa , Bellucci Micol , Rivella Enrico , D’Antoni Susanna
Published: December 2022

Despite laws and directives for the regulation and restriction of pesticides in farming, the large use of Plant-Protection Products (PPPs) in paddy fields is a relevant worldwide cause of environmental contamination. The aim of this work is to evaluate the environmental impact due to the use of PPPs by using an integrated approach based on chemical analyses and ecotoxicological hazard assessment, supported by statistical tools, in order to overcome the issues related to traditional tabular evaluation. Samples of soil and water of seven conventional and organic paddies located in Northern Italy were examined for two years. The results evidenced a direct relationship between the presence of Oxadiazon in water and bioassay responses as the main cause of the toxicity measured. This phenomenon affected both biological and conventional rice fields, due to the free circulation of water through irrigation canals. Therefore, the implementation of organic districts with water circulation isolated from conventional fields represents a simple and effective countermeasure to safeguard the agricultural practices of organic crops.
Analysis of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the volatility of the RUONIA interest rate: wavelet coherent analysis
Authors: Ponkratov V. V. , Karaev A. K.
Published: December 2022

The results of the assessment of wavelet coherence and wavelet phase difference for the considered pairs of indicators: the daily number of newly registered patients with Covid-19 and RUONIA; daily number of deaths from Covid-19 and RUONIA, show very similar dynamics of both pairs, which occurs in accordance with the same patterns (patterns) and indicate a high level of wavelet coherence (consistency of joint changes) and phase difference during the provoked Covid-19 market stress over most of the time and frequency scale, especially in the 80+ day frequency band. It has been established that for all considered pairs of indicators, the area with the minimum value of wavelet coherence and, accordingly, joint consistency, is mainly represented in the frequency band of 30–50 days, throughout the entire time interval (458 days).
STAFFING OF VORONEZH REGION ENTERPRISES IN THE CONTEXT OF DEMOGRAPHIC CHALLENGES
Authors:   Voronezh State University, Voronezh Institute of Economics and Social Management, Institute of Social Education, Maslova E.V. , Kolesnikova O.A. ,   Voronezh State University, Voronezh Institute of High Technologies, Voronezh, Russia, Okolelykh I.V. ,   Voronezh Institute of High Technologies, Voronezh, Russia
Published: December 2022

The subject of the study is the effectiveness of providing the regional economy (on the example of a typical subject for Central Russia – the Voronezh Region) with personnel, taking into account demographic development trends. The purpose of the study is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the impact of demographic processes (which should become the basis for a significant adjustment of the dynamics of the values of the calculated indicators of the main parameters of the labor market and employment, including the forecast of the economy’s staffing) on the staffing of enterprises at the level of the Russian regions. The scientific novelty consists in substantiating the need to increase labor productivity as the most effective tool for countering negative demographic trends that cause a reduction in the number and complexity of the structure of labor resources. The authors use methods of analysis, argumentation, logical constructions and modeling, systematization and classification, analogy, abstraction, induction and deduction, description. In the course of the study, the authors come to the following results and conclusions: regional strategies related to human resources management should be developed on the basis of population size and structure forecasts; at the regional level, it is necessary to develop a long-term demographic policy concept that is scientifically sound and approved by the expert community; in modern socio-demographic conditions, a significant part of the region’s enterprises are experiencing an unmet need for personnel, which is not fully compensated by the introduction of new technologies and robotics; labor productivity growth as an integral part of digitalization and intensification of the economy in the face of significant demographic losses is the most effective way to solve the problem of staffing enterprises and organizations; the policy aimed at overcoming the imbalances of the regional labor market and ensuring structural compliance of the demand for labor and its supply should be comprehensive, including changes in the structure and quality of vocational education; effective regulation of regional labor markets is impossible without the use of a socio-demographic approach based on design and program mechanisms, taking into account the regional specifics of the reproduction of labor resources; in the current conditions of increased demographic risks, the possibilities of solving the most complex socio-economic and socio-political tasks facing Russia without ensuring labor productivity growth and intensification of the economy as a whole are limited.