bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality Evaluation of Lemon Cordial Stored at Different Times with Microwave Heating (Pasteurization)
Authors: Malik Faiqa , Nadeem Muhammad , Ainee Ammara , Kanwal Rabia , Sultan Muhammad , Iqbal Aqsa , Mahmoud Samy F. , Alshehry Garsa Ali , Al-Jumayi Huda Abdalrahman , Algarni Eman Hassan Ahmed
Published: February 2022

Consumer interest in food quality and safety has shifted over time, as consumers increasingly prefer minimally processed items. As a result, numerous non-thermal approaches have been implemented due to their potential to preserve the nutritional profile of products along with lengthening their storability. Microwaving, a green processing technique, volumetrically heats the product because of the interactions developed between charged ions, polar water molecules of foodstuff and the incoming electromagnetic waves. The study was mapped out to investigate the effect of microwave exposure time (60, 90 and 120 s) at fixed power (1000 W) and frequency (2450 MHz) on physicochemical properties, phytochemical constituents, antioxidant potential and microbial counts of lemon cordial stored at refrigerated temperature (4 ± 2 °C). The mentioned parameters were analyzed after an interval of 30–90 days. Statistical findings illustrated a highly significant (p ≤ 0.01) impact of microwave treatment and storage on titratable acidity, pH, total soluble solids, total phenolic contents, total flavonoids contents, antioxidant potential and total plate count. Sample microwaved for 120 s showed the highest pH values (2.45 ± 0.050), total soluble solids (56.68 ± 2.612 °B) and antioxidant activity (1212.03 ± 716.5 µg—equivalent of ascorbic acid per 100 mL of cordial); meanwhile, it exhibited the lowest total plate counts (1.75 ± 0.144 Log 10 CFU/mL). Therefore, microwaving can be suggested as a suitable alternate to traditional pasteurization techniques as well as to chemical preservatives.
The Recycling of Coal Fly Ash: A Review on Sustainable Developments and Economic Considerations
Authors: Vilakazi Amanda Qinisile , Ndlovu Sehliselo , Chipise Liberty , Shemi Alan
Published: February 2022

The recycling and utilization opportunities for coal fly ash (CFA) have increased in the past two decades. However, limited commercialization of the material is still reported, while disposal and management remain major concerns. CFA utilization is currently commercially feasible in the building and construction industry. Other alternative uses that are being explored involve the extraction of valuable metals and the purification of wastewater. The CFA-produced adsorbent material utilized in wastewater purification processes should be able to generate water that meets the legal quality requirements for reutilization in alternative applications. On the other hand, in the recovery of metallic components such as smelter-grade alumina, high recovery and high purity products are only achievable through the processing of CFA using expensive and energy—intensive processes. Furthermore, most of the current CFA recycling processes tend to generate secondary solid residues (SSR), which can cause environmental pollution, thus requiring further downstream processing. In this context, this paper reviews and discusses current research on CFA recycling methods, challenges and opportunities associated with resource recovery from CFA, and the acceptability of the value-added products, and it therefore proposes sustainable processes for CFA utilization. This review further suggests that to successfully compete with bauxite for production of smelter-grade alumina, other saleable value-added products such as Ti, Fe and the REEs should be recovered by engineering an integrated process design. The generated SSR in each process must also be characterized, recycled and re-used to reduce waste production and advance the circular economy concept. The review concludes that for CFA to become considered as a more attractive commercial resource, there is need for its complete and holistic utilization in high volumes and in different applications to offset its low value.
Septic System Impacts on Source Water: Two Novel Field Tracer Experiments in Fractured Sedimentary Bedrock
Authors: Marshall Rachael , Levison Jana , Parker Beth , McBean Edward
Published: February 2022

Septic systems are a common contributor of contaminants to groundwater that have implications for source water protection, particularly in fractured sedimentary bedrock environments. Two 24-h tracer experiments were performed that applied (1) the dye Lissamine Flavine FF and (2) three artificial sweeteners (acesulfame, sucralose, and cyclamate) in the leaching bed to examine solute transport from a single-family septic bed to a multilevel monitoring well installed in fractured sedimentary bedrock on a First Nation reserve in Southern Ontario, Canada. Tracer was first observed 3 h and 20 min after deployment, and breakthrough curves showed that multiple pathways likely exist between the septic bed and the monitoring well. Cyclamate concentrations were more elevated than expected compared to other studies that examined cyclamate’s attenuation in the laboratory and in porous media aquifers. Solute transport through the septic bed was analyzed with the numerical modeling software Hydrus 1D, which indicated that the septic bed may be too thin, located directly on bedrock, underlain by fractured soils, or bypassed through a short-circuit. The rapid transport of septic leachate to fractured sedimentary aquifers is problematic for First Nation and rural communities. More stringent regulations are needed for the design and use of septic systems in these environments.
Food Waste, Attitudes and Preferences of Young Females: A Case Study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsawah Ghada , Saleh Wafaa , Malibari Areej , Lashin Maha M. A. , AlGhamdi Tasneem
Published: February 2022

Investigations of attitudes towards food waste and preferences of policies that affect sustainability has increased rapidly over the past few decades. Most research on food waste, however, has been undertaken mainly in the developed countries with very few in the developing countries. It is very important therefore to investigate food waste and attitudes towards sustainability in developing countries, especially since a huge amount of carbon emissions and other pollutants occur in the developing countries. Saudi Arabia is a rich developing country that sets its 2030 visions to tackle issues related to sustainability. Many strong policies and programs are set in place to fulfil these visions. Such attitudes towards food waste diverges between cultures as a result of differences in background, income, family structure, age, etc. The contribution of this study is that it intends to investigate attitudes and preferences on policies and programs that aim at achieving sustainability and reducing food waste for young university females in Saudi Arabia. The methodology that is adopted in this study is to design a questionnaire, arranged in 5 sections and 23 questions, to collect data from 199 students at Princess Norah Bint Abdulrahman University. The aim of the questionnaire was to evaluate attitudes and preferences of female students towards food waste in Saudi Arabia, and in particular in the city of Riyadh. A number of policies were selected for the investigation, including three categories of policies: hospitality policies, education and raising awareness, and legislation policies. The participants expressed their opinions towards policies and programs that aim at improving sustainability and reducing food waste. Each policy was assessed in terms of its level of importance and its effectiveness in achieving sustainability. Two indices were calculated to compare and assess the perception of the suggested policies: the Perceived Effectiveness Index (PEI) and the Endorsement Index (EI). The results show that while some policies are perceived as both effective and supported for implementation, some policies are perceived as most effective; however, participants were not very supportive of their implementation. Hospitality policies, such as encouraging food waste recycling and providing the option to take away leftover food, were ranked highest in terms of effectiveness to achieve the target. These findings seem to echo the Saudi society’s attitudes of sustainable behaviour and positive attitudes towards food waste recycling. It should also be noted here that while the Saudi society is still a growing and developing society, it does care significantly about food waste and sustainability. The results are encouraging, and further investigations are urgently needed to better understand determinants of food waste at a household level in developing countries.
Experimental Evaluation of Fire Resistance Limits for Steel Constructions with Fire-Retardant Coatings at Various Fire Conditions
Authors: Eremina Tatiana , Korolchenko Dmitry , Minaylov Denis
Published: February 2022

The experimental evaluation of fire resistance limits for steel constructions with fire-retardant coatings consists of a lot of experiments on the heating of steel structures of buildings by solving a heat engineering problem at various fire conditions. Building design implies the assessment of compliance of actual fire resistance limits for steel constructions with the required limits. Fire resistance limits for steel constructions are determined for “standard” temperature mode, and this can lead to overestimated fire resistance and underestimated heat influence for a real fire. Estimation of the convergence for “standard” temperature mode and possible “real” fire mode, as well as of the compliance of actual fire resistance limits with real fire conditions, was realized in the following stages: mathematical modeling of real fire development by the field model in software package Fire Dynamics Simulation (FDS) with various fire loads and mathematical modeling of steel construction heating for the standard temperature mode obtained by modeling “real” fire modes (the finite difference method of solving the Fourier heat conduction equation at external and internal nonlinearities was used for modeling the process of steel structure heating with the implementation in the ANSYS mechanical software package). Experiments of the assessment of fire-protective paint’s effectiveness were carried out for standard temperature mode and obtained by modeling “real” fire modes. The equivalent fire duration dependence on fire load type was determined. This dependence can be taken into account in determination of fire resistance limits for steel constructions in warehouse building roofing. Fire-protective paint effectiveness was estimated for “standard” temperature mode and various other temperature modes.
A Projection Approach of Tourist Circulation under Conditions of Uncertainty
Authors: Turtureanu Anca-Gabriela , Pripoaie Rodica , Cretu Carmen-Mihaela , Sirbu Carmen-Gabriela , Marinescu Emanuel Ştefan , Talaghir Laurentiu-Gabriel , Chițu Florentina
Published: February 2022

This paper explores an important problem in tourism demand analysis, namely, the inherent uncertainty involved in projecting tourism demand. Tourism demand continues to be severely affected by unforeseen events associated with the current global health crisis, which has led to an examination of ways to predict the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism. Tourism flow forecasting relating to arrivals is of particular importance for tourism and the entire hospitality industry, because it is an indicator of future demand. Thus, it provides fundamental information that can be applied in the planning and development of future strategies. Accurate forecasts of seasonal tourist flows can help decision-makers increase the efficiency of their strategic planning and reduce the risk of decision-making failure. Due to the growing interest in more advanced forecasting methods, we applied the ARMA model method to analyze the evolution of monthly arrival series for Romania in the period from January 2010 to September 2021, in order to ascertain the best statistical forecasting model for arrivals. We conducted this research to find the best method of forecasting tourist demand, and we compared two forecasting models: AR(1)MA(1) and AR(1)MA(2). Our study results show that the superior model for the prediction of tourist demand is AR(1)MA(1).
Sustainable Management Practices and Stakeholder Pressure: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Haleem Fazli , Farooq Sami , Cheng Yang , Waehrens Brian Vejrum
Published: February 2022

This paper aims to summarize and analyze what is known regarding the ways in which stakeholder pressure may influence sustainable practices. Furthermore, this study extends this understanding to the development of several research opportunities for further investigation. A systematic extensive literature review was performed to investigate the relationship between stakeholder pressure and sustainable management practices. This literature review shows that organizational factors are more widely covered than the individual and macro-level factors as moderating variables, and suggests more organizational-, individual-, and macro-level factors, as well as the interaction of these factors as moderating variables on the link between stakeholder pressure and sustainable management practices. Furthermore, the use of the stakeholder theory is dominant, followed by the use of the institutional theory. The manufacturing sector is widely covered, survey methodology is extensively used, and the environmental dimensions are more addressed than the social dimensions of sustainability. The relationship between stakeholder pressure and the adoption of sustainable management practices is not obvious, due to the varied results. Therefore, it is difficult to establish a direct relationship between stakeholder pressure and the adoption of sustainable management practices. This study furthers insight into the stakeholder pressure influence on sustainable management practices by reviewing the comprehensive literature and suggesting future research opportunities.
Multinational Enterprises’ Dual Agency Role: Formal Institutions and Corporate Social Responsibility in Emerging Markets
Authors: Bu Maoliang , Liu Ying
Published: February 2022

This study systematically examines whether and how a nation’s extent of economic globalization, manifested by the presence of multinational enterprises (MNEs), and formal institutional development may jointly influence a nation’s overall corporate social responsibility (CSR) involvement across emerging markets. Drawing on institutional theory, we develop a dual agency model: on the one hand, MNEs take the role of CSR agents in demonstrating CSR practices and imposing direct influences on local firms in emerging markets; on the other hand, MNEs function as institutional agents, conducting activities of institutional entrepreneurship and channeling global institutional influences into emerging markets. Empirically, we conduct a bootstrapped test of mediation analysis across 83 developing countries. Our findings show that in the context of emerging markets, a more significant presence of MNEs in a nation positively links to its firms’ overall CSR involvement, and the nation’s formal institutional evolvement partially mediates such a positive relationship. This study ends with a conclusion and discussions on the contributions and implications.
Global Land Use Impacts of Bioeconomy: An Econometric Input–Output Approach
Authors: Többen Johannes Reinhard , Distelkamp Martin , Stöver Britta , Reuschel Saskia , Ahmann Lara , Lutz Christian
Published: February 2022

Many countries have set ambiguous targets for the development of a bioeconomy that not only ensures sufficient production of high-quality foods but also contributes to decarbonization, green jobs and reducing import dependency through biofuels and advanced biomaterials. However, feeding a growing and increasingly affluent world population and providing additional biomass for a future bioeconomy all within planetary boundaries constitute an enormous challenge for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Global economic models mapping the complex network of global supply such as multiregional input–output (MRIO) or computable general equilibrium (CGE) models have been the workhorses to monitor the past as well as possible future impacts of the bioeconomy. These approaches, however, have often been criticized for their relatively low amount of detail on agriculture and energy, or for their lack of an empirical base for the specification of agents’ economic behavior. In this paper, we address these issues and present a hybrid macro-econometric model that combines a comprehensive mapping of the world economy with highly detailed submodules of agriculture and the energy sector in physical units based on FAO and IEA data. We showcase the model in a case study on the future global impacts of the EU’s bioeconomy transformation and find small positive economic impacts at the cost of a considerable increase in land use mostly outside of Europe.
Biodiesel Production from Waste Oils: A South African Outlook
Authors: Linganiso Ella Cebisa , Tlhaole Boitumelo , Magagula Lindokuhle Precious , Dziike Silas , Linganiso Linda Zikhona , Motaung Tshwafo Elias , Moloto Nosipho , Tetana Zikhona Nobuntu
Published: February 2022

The viability of large-scale biodiesel production ultimately boils down to its cost of commercialisation despite other very important factors such as the negative environmental and health effects caused by the direct combustion of fossil diesel. How much each country’s economy will be influenced by the production of biodiesel will be determined by the commitment of various stakeholders to the much-needed transition from petroleum-based resources to renewable resources. Biodiesel production is largely determined by the cost of the feedstock (>70%) and this review focuses on the use of waste oil resources as biodiesel feedstock with a special focus on waste cooking oil (WCO). Generating value from waste oil provides an alternative waste management route as well as a positive environmental and economic contribution. The transesterification process for biodiesel production, its catalysis and some important technical and economic aspects are covered in this communication with a special focus on the South African framework. An overview of the current research and its implications going forward is discussed.
Modified Activated Carbon Synthesized from Oil Palm Leaves Waste as a Novel Green Adsorbent for Chemical Oxygen Demand in Produced Water
Authors: Khurshid Hifsa , Mustafa Muhammad Raza Ul , Isa Mohamed Hasnain
Published: February 2022

Palm tree waste is one of the most widespread forms of agricultural waste, particularly in areas where oil palms are cultivated, and its management is one of the industry’s key concerns. To deal with this palm waste, researchers are working hard to work out the ways to convert this plentiful waste into useful material for future beneficial applications. The objective of this study was to employ chemical activation techniques to prepare a new activated carbon (AC) using discarded oil palm leaves (OPL) in Malaysia. Three chemical agents (H3PO4, NaOH and ZnCl2), as well as three pyrolysis temperatures (400 °C, 600 °C and 800 °C) and various impregnation ratios (1:0.5–1:3) were used to optimize the preparation process. As a result, the oil palm leaves activated carbon (OPLAC), with prominent surface properties, was obtained by ZnCl2 activations with a 1:1 impregnation ratio and carbonized at a pyrolysis temperature of 800 °C. The OPLAC-ZC had a surface area of 331.153 m2/g, pore size of 2.494 nm and carbon content of 81.2%. Results showed that the OPLAC-ZC was able to quickly (90 min) remove the chemical oxygen demand (COD) from produced water (PW), through chemical adsorption and an intraparticle diffusion mechanism. The material followed pseudo-second order kinetic and Freundlich isotherm models. The maximum adsorption capacity of organic pollutants forming COD in PW was found to be 4.62 mg/g (59.6 ± 5%). When compared to previous studies, the OPLAC-ZC showed equivalent or better COD removal capability. It is the first detailed study reporting the preparation of AC from OPL and applying it for organic pollutants adsorption forming COD in PW.
Parental Discipline and Early Childhood Development in Rural China
Authors: Fatima Hani , Zhao Shuhang , Yue Ai , Li Shanshan , Shi Yaojiang
Published: February 2022

Children who are under the age of five in underdeveloped and developing countries, including China, exhibit developmental delays due to their exposure to risks such as impoverishment, deprived health conditions, parental punishment, neglect, and poor psychosocial stimulation. Adverse experiences during the formative years of life, such as harsh parental discipline, may put them at risk for poor physical and mental well-being. The aim of this research is to explore the pervasiveness and developmental outcomes of different forms of discipline practices in the underdeveloped rural areas of China. To do this, we used cross-sectional data on child–caregiver dyads from a large survey held in 22 poor counties in the QinBa Mountain Region. The sample included 1622 children aged 12–36 months. Partakers were requested to respond to a general survey on parenting which included basic demographic questions, the Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social-Emotional (ASQ-SE), the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID-III), and questions on exposure of children to different discipline practices. Our findings from OLS estimates reveal that aversive discipline methods adversely affect cognitive, language, and socio-emotional development, whereas, non-aversive discipline practices have constructive effects on cognitive, language, and motor development of children.
From Hemispheric Asymmetry through Sensorimotor Experiences to Cognitive Outcomes in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Babik Iryna
Published: February 2022

Recent neuroimaging studies allowed us to explore abnormal brain structures and interhemispheric connectivity in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Behavioral researchers have long reported that children with CP exhibit suboptimal performance in different cognitive domains (e.g., receptive and expressive language skills, reading, mental imagery, spatial processing, subitizing, math, and executive functions). However, there has been very limited cross-domain research involving these two areas of scientific inquiry. To stimulate such research, this perspective paper proposes some possible neurological mechanisms involved in the cognitive delays and impairments in children with CP. Additionally, the paper examines the ways motor and sensorimotor experience during the development of these neural substrates could enable more optimal development for children with CP. Understanding these developmental mechanisms could guide more effective interventions to promote the development of both sensorimotor and cognitive skills in children with CP.
Algebra of the Symmetry Operators of the Klein–Gordon–Fock Equation for the Case When Groups of Motions G3 Act Transitively on Null Subsurfaces of Spacetime
Authors: Obukhov Valeriy V.
Published: February 2022

The algebras of the symmetry operators for the Hamilton–Jacobi and Klein–Gordon–Fock equations are found for a charged test particle, moving in an external electromagnetic field in a spacetime manifold on the isotropic (null) hypersurface, of which a three-parameter groups of motions acts transitively. We have found all admissible electromagnetic fields for which such algebras exist. We have proved that an admissible field does not deform the algebra of symmetry operators for the free Hamilton–Jacobi and Klein–Gordon–Fock equations. The results complete the classification of admissible electromagnetic fields, in which the Hamilton–Jacobi and Klein–Gordon–Fock equations admit algebras of motion integrals that are isomorphic to the algebras of operators of the r-parametric groups of motions of spacetime manifolds if (r≤4).
Some Geometric Constants Related to the Midline of Equilateral Triangles in Banach Spaces
Authors: Chen Bingren , Yang Zhijian , Liu Qi , Li Yongjin
Published: February 2022

We will introduce some new geometric constants based on the constant H(X) proposed by Gao and the constant A2(X) proposed by M. Baronti et al. We first provide a study of a new constant M1(X) closely related to the midlines of equilateral triangles, including a discussion of some of its properties and the connections with other parameters of the sphere. Next, we focus on a new constant M2(X) and its generalized form M2(X,p,q), along with some of their basic properties. Finally, we concentrate on a new constant M3(X) and discuss some of its properties.
Diffeomorphisms in Momentum Space: Physical Implications of Different Choices of Momentum Coordinates in the Galilean Snyder Model
Authors: Gubitosi Giulia , Mignemi Salvatore
Published: February 2022

It has been pointed out that different choices of momenta can be associated to the same noncommutative spacetime model. The question of whether these momentum spaces, related by diffeomorphisms, produce the same physical predictions is still debated. In this work, we focus our attention on a few different momentum spaces that can be associated to the Galilean Snyder noncommutative spacetime model and show that they produce different predictions for the energy spectrum of the harmonic oscillator.
Metagenome-Assembled Viral Genomes Analysis Reveals Diversity and Infectivity of the RNA Virome of Gerbillinae Species
Authors: Du Han , Zhang Lijuan , Zhang Xinqiang , Yun Fengze , Chang Yuhao , Tuersun Awaguli , Aisaiti Kamila , Ma Zhenghai
Published: February 2022

Rodents are a known reservoir for extensive zoonotic viruses, and also possess a propensity to roost in human habitation. Therefore, it is necessary to identify and catalogue the potentially emerging zoonotic viruses that are carried by rodents. Here, viral metagenomic sequencing was used for zoonotic virus detection and virome characterization on 32 Great gerbils of Rhombomys opimus, Meriones meridianus, and Meiiones Unguiculataus species in Xinjiang, Northwest China. In total, 1848 viral genomes that are potentially pathogenic to rodents and humans, as well as to other wildlife, were identified namely Retro-, Flavi-, Pneumo-, Picobirna-, Nairo-, Arena-, Hepe-, Phenui-, Rhabdo-, Calici-, Reo-, Corona-, Orthomyxo-, Peribunya-, and Picornaviridae families. In addition, a new genotype of rodent Hepacivirus was identified in heart and lung homogenates of seven viscera pools and phylogenetic analysis revealed the closest relationship to rodent Hepacivirus isolate RtMm-HCV/IM2014 that was previously reported to infect rodents from Inner Mongolia, China. Moreover, nine new genotype viral sequences that corresponded to Picobirnaviruses (PBVs), which have a bi-segmented genome and belong to the family Picobirnaviridae, comprising of three segment I and six segment II sequences, were identified in intestines and liver of seven viscera pools. In the two phylogenetic trees that were constructed using ORF1 and ORF2 of segment I, the three segment I sequences were clustered into distinct clades. Additionally, phylogenetic analysis showed that PBV sequences were distributed in the whole tree that was constructed using the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene of segment II with high diversity, sharing 68.42–82.67% nucleotide identities with other genogroup I and genogroup II PBV strains based on the partial RdRp gene. By RNA sequencing, we found a high degree of biodiversity of Retro-, Flavi-, Pneumo-, and Picobirnaridae families and other zoonotic viruses in gerbils, indicating that zoonotic viruses are a common presence in gerbils from Xinjiang, China. Therefore, further research is needed to determine the zoonotic potential of these viruses that are carried by other rodent species from different ecosystems and wildlife in general.
Special Issue “Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology”
Authors: Schmidt-Chanasit Jonas , Agboli Eric , Jöst Hanna
Published: February 2022

Mosquito-borne viruses (MBVs), also known as moboviruses, are associated mainly with mosquitoes and are able to infect humans and other vertebrates [...]
Anti-Influenza Activity of Medicinal Material Extracts from Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Kurskaya Olga , Prokopyeva Elena , Bi Hongtao , Sobolev Ivan , Murashkina Tatyana , Shestopalov Alexander , Wei Lixin , Sharshov Kirill
Published: February 2022

To discover sources for novel anti-influenza drugs, we evaluated the antiviral potential of nine extracts from eight medicinal plants and one mushroom (Avena sativa L., Hordeum vulgare Linn. var. nudum Hook. f., Hippophae rhamnoides Linn., Lycium ruthenicum Murr., Nitraria tangutorum Bobr., Nitraria tangutorum Bobr. by-products, Potentilla anserina L., Cladina rangiferina (L.) Nyl., and Armillaria luteo-virens) from the Qinghai–Tibetan plateau against the influenza A/H3N2 virus. Concentrations lower than 125 μg/mL of all extracts demonstrated no significant toxicity in MDCK cells. During screening, seven extracts (A. sativa, H. vulgare, H. rhamnoides, L. ruthenicum, N. tangutorum, C. rangiferina, and A. luteo-virens) exhibited antiviral activity, especially the water-soluble polysaccharide from the fruit body of the mushroom A. luteo-virens. These extracts significantly reduced the infectivity of the human influenza A/H3N2 virus in vitro when used at concentrations of 15.6–125 μg/mL. Two extracts (N. tangutorum by-products and P. anserina) had no A/H3N2 virus inhibitory activity. Notably, the extract obtained from the fruits of N. tangutorum and N. tangutorum by-products exhibited different anti-influenza effects. The results suggest that extracts of A. sativa, H. vulgare, H. rhamnoides, L. ruthenicum, N. tangutorum, C. rangiferina, and A. luteo-virens contain substances with antiviral activity, and may be promising sources of new antiviral drugs.
Monocyte Gene and Molecular Expression Profiles Suggest Distinct Effector and Regulatory Functions in Beninese HIV Highly Exposed Seronegative Female Commercial Sex Workers
Authors: Blondin-Ladrie Laurence , Fourcade Lyvia , Modica Alessandro , Aranguren Matheus , de Montigny Nicolas , Labbé Annie-Claude , Alary Michel , Guédou Fernand , Poudrier Johanne , Roger Michel
Published: February 2022

We have previously reported that the female genital tract (FGT) of Beninese HIV highly-exposed seronegative (HESN) commercial sex workers (CSWs), presented elevated frequencies of a myeloid HLA-DR+CD14+CD11c+ population presenting “tolerogenic” monocyte derived dendritic cells (MoDC) features. In order to assess whether a differential profile of monocytes may be involved in the generation of these genital MoDCs, we have herein characterized the blood monocyte compartment of Beninese HESNs (HIV-uninfected ≥ 10 years CSWs) and relevant controls (HIV-uninfected 2.5–5 years CSWs herein termed “early HESNs”), HIV-infected CSWs, and low-risk HIV-uninfected women from the general population. Transcriptomic analyses by RNA-Seq of total sorted blood monocytes demonstrate that in comparison to the control groups, HESNs present increased expression levels of FCGR2C, FCAR, ITGAX, ITGAM, CR2, CD68, and CD163 genes, associated with effector functions. Moreover, we found increased expression levels of genes associated with protection/control against SHIV/HIV such as CCL3, CCL4, CCL5, BHLHE40, and TNFSF13, as well as with immune regulation such as IL-10, Ahr, CD83, and the orphan nuclear receptor (NR)4A1, NR4A2, and NR4A3. Through multicolor flow cytometry analyses, we noticed that the frequencies of intermediate and non-classical monocyte populations tended to be elevated in the blood of HESNs, and exhibited increased expression levels of effector CD16, CD11c, CD11b, as well as regulatory HLA-G, IL-10, and IFN-α markers when compared to HIV-uninfected women and/or HIV-infected CSWs. This profile is compatible with that previously reported in the FGT of HESNs, and likely confers an enormous advantage in their resistance to HIV infection.
Factors Affecting Young Adults’ Decision Making to Undergo COVID-19 Vaccination: A Patient Preference Study
Authors: Donin Gleb , Erfányuková Anna , Ivlev Ilya
Published: February 2022

Young adults are a substantial driver of lagging vaccination against COVID-19 worldwide. We aimed to understand what vaccine or vaccination environment attributes may affect young adults’ vaccine inclination. We contacted a convenience sample of 1415 students to recruit a minimum of 150 individuals for a web-based discrete choice experiment. The respondents were asked to choose one of two hypothetical vaccines, defined by six attributes—vaccine efficacy, risk of mild side effects, protection duration, administration route, recommender, and travel time to the vaccination site. Individual preferences were calculated with the Markov chain Monte Carlo hierarchical Bayes estimation. A total of 445 individuals (mean age 24.4 years, 272 (61.1%) women) completed the survey between 22 March and 3 May 2021. Vaccine protection duration (28.3 (95% CI, 27.0–29.6)) and vaccine efficacy in preventing COVID-19 (27.5 (95% CI, 26.3–28.8)) were the most important, followed by the risk of vaccine side effects (17.3 (95% CI, 16.2–18.4)). Individuals reluctant or unsure about vaccination (21.1%) prioritized the potential for mild side effects higher and vaccine efficacy lower than the vaccine-inclined individuals. New vaccination programs that target young adults should emphasize the protection duration, low risk of vaccine side effects, and high efficacy.
Knowledge, Prevalence and Factors Associated with Sexually Transmitted Diseases among Female Students of a Federal University in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Nzoputam Chimezie , Adam Vincent Yakubu , Nzoputam Ogochukwu
Published: February 2022

Background: Globally, over 40 million people are estimated to be living with sexually transmitted infection/diseases (STI/Ds), including HIV/AIDS. It is said that sub-Saharan Africa accounts for over a half of that figure, making it the continent most affected with HIV/AIDS and other STI/Ds. This study was designed and conducted to assess the knowledge and prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases, and factors that are associated with it, among female students of a university in southern Nigeria. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among female students in five faculties in the University of Benin, Benin City. The instrument used for the collection of data was a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed with the aid of SPSS, version 22.0. A level of significance was set at p < 0.05 and descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. An odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval for prevalence and factors associated with STI/Ds was computed using binary and multinomial logistic regression models. Results: A total of 423 female students participated in the study. Over half (224, 53.0%) of the participants have had sexual intercourse. The results show that majority of the respondents (95.3%) were aware of STIs and 83.1% had good knowledge of STIs. The prevalence of STI/Ds among the participants was 27.7%, with gonorrhea being the most frequent STI/D that the respondents reported testing positive for. Conclusion: The present study was able to ascertain a higher prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases among female students. To this end, it is imperative that families and agencies (both government and private agencies) should synergize to remove the embargo seemingly placed on women by our cultures and faith-based institutions regarding sexuality. This may help to improve access to sexual and reproductive health education and commodities for women, thereby play a vital role in reducing the transmission of STI/Ds.
Classification and Assessment Methods for Mountain Channel Habitats in the Chishui River Basin, China
Authors: Yu Fandong , Liu Fei , Xia Zhijun , Lin Pengcheng , Xu Chunsen , Wang Jianwei , Hou Miaomiao , Zou Xinhua
Published: February 2022

Mountain channels have received relatively little study compared to lowland rivers due to their complicated fluvial geomorphology and inconvenient traffic. Classification schemes and habitat assessments in mountain channels should be strengthened to provide a scientific basis for river ecological restoration. Therefore, we tried to simplify the habitat assessment of mountain channels using a suitable habitat classification scheme based on high-resolution satellite imagery. We used China’s Chishui River basin because it is a typical mountain river system. Five parameters (stream order, elevation, slope, sinuosity and river network density) and 120 sites were used for habitat classification. In addition, we recorded 20 metrics in four categories (water environmental status, river morphology, riparian zone and human disturbance). Our results identified a total of 40 representative sampling sections belonging to six habitat types that were useful for habitat assessment across the Chishui River basin. The basin was given a mean comprehensive habitat quality index (CHQI) score of 130.66 ± 24.14 and classified under the status “good.” However, the headwaters, Tongmin River, Tongzi River and Xishui River were disturbed by various human activities. We conclude that the process of developing and simplifying our habitat assessment systems can be regarded as a reference for biomonitoring in other mountain river systems.
Aqueous Arsenic Speciation with Hydrogeochemical Modeling and Correlation with Fluorine in Groundwater in a Semiarid Region of Mexico
Authors: Ortiz Letechipia Jennifer , González-Trinidad Julián , Júnez-Ferreira Hugo Enrique , Bautista-Capetillo Carlos , Robles-Rovelo Cruz Octavio , Contreras Rodríguez Ada Rebeca , Dávila-Hernández Sandra
Published: February 2022

In arid and semiarid regions, groundwater becomes the main source to meet the drinking water needs of large cities, food production, and industrial activities. For this reason, necessary studies must be carried out to estimate its quantity and quality, always seeking sustainable management, thus avoiding social conflicts or a decrease in the productive activities of humanity. This research explains the behavior of groundwater quality concerning arsenic speciation and its relationship with fluoride. The average total arsenic concentration of 19.95 µg/L and 20.29 µg/L is reported for the study period from 2015 to 2020, respectively, according to the Mexican standard. If the population drinks water directly, it is exposed to possible damage to health. The predominant arsenic species is As (V), with 95% and As (III) with 5%, this finding will allow us to define in greater detail the type of remediation that is required to reduce the content of this element in the water. Regarding the relationship between arsenic and fluorine, very small Pearson correlation coefficients of the order of 0.3241 and 0.3186 were found. The estimation of the space–time variation made it possible to identify the areas with the highest concentration of arsenic and fluorine, allowing the definition of the operating policies of these wells, thereby protecting the health of the inhabitants who consume this water.
The problem of mild traumatic brain injury in persons of hazardous occupations
Authors:   SBHI NR City Clinical Hospital No. 39, 603028, Nizhny Novgorod, Koshmanev Mikhail Sergeevich , Yulin Vadim Sergeevich ,   SBHI NR City Clinical Hospital No. 39, 603028, Nizhny Novgorod, Shpagin Maksim Vladimirovich ,   SBHI NR City Clinical Hospital No. 39, Yarikov Anton Viktorovich ,   FBHI Privolzhsky District Medical Center, Nizhny Novgorod Region, Nizhny Novgorod, Fraerman Aleksandr Petrovich ,   FSBEI HE Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod
Published: February 2022

Until recently, the problem of encephalopathy in contact sports was not discussed at all. Currently, there is scientific evidence of the relationship between pathological changes in the brain and repeated concussions in former professional athletes and people in dangerous professions. In this article, a team of authors provides a literary review of modern research in the field of the influence of chronic brain trauma on cognitive and neurodynamic functions, as well as in the genesis of the development of neurodegenerative diseases. The article also describes the diagnostic capabilities and preventive measures required for people in hazardous occupations with an increased risk of brain injury.
Low-value pharmaceutical care among Dutch GPs: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Müskens Joris LJM , van Dulmen Simone A , Wiersma Tjerk , Burgers Jako S , Hek Karin , Westert Gert P , Kool Rudolf B
Published: February 2022

Background

Low-value pharmaceutical care exists in general practice. However, the extent among Dutch GPs remains unknown.

Aim

To assess the prevalence of low-value pharmaceutical care among Dutch GPs.

Design and setting

Retrospective cohort study using data from patient records.

Method

The prevalence of three types of pharmaceutical care prescribed by GPs between 2016 and 2019 were examined: topical antibiotics for conjunctivitis, benzodiazepines for non-specific lower back pain, and chronic acid-reducing medication (ARM) prescriptions. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was performed to assess prescribing variation and the influence of patient characteristics on receiving a low-value prescription.

Results

Large variation in prevalence as well as practice variation was observed among the types of low-value pharmaceutical GP care examined. Between 53% and 61% of patients received an inappropriate antibiotics prescription for conjunctivitis, around 3% of patients with lower back pain received an inappropriate benzodiazepine prescription, and 88% received an inappropriate chronic ARM prescription during the years examined. The odds of receiving an inappropriate antibiotic or benzodiazepine prescription increased with age (P<0.001), but decreased for chronic inappropriate ARM prescriptions (P<0.001). Sex affected only the odds of receiving a non-indicated chronic ARM, with males being at higher risk (P<0.001). The odds of receiving an inappropriate ARM increased with increasing neighbourhood socioeconomic status (P<0.05). Increasing practice size decreased the odds of inappropriate antibiotic and benzodiazepine prescriptions (P<0.001).

Conclusion

The results show that the prevalence of low-value pharmaceutical GP care varies among these three clinical problems. Significant variation in inappropriate prescribing exists between different types of pharmaceutical care — and GP practices.
GP wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review
Authors: Jefferson Laura , Golder Su , Heathcote Claire , Avila Ana Castro , Dale Veronica , Essex Holly , van der Feltz Cornelis Christina , McHugh Elizabeth , Moe-Byrne Thirimon , Bloor Karen
Published: February 2022

Background

Doctors’ organisations in the UK have reported worrying levels of work-related stress and burnout in the GP workforce for some time, and the COVID-19 pandemic has presented clear new challenges.

Aim

To synthesise international evidence exploring the impact of COVID-19 on primary care doctors’ mental health and wellbeing, and identify risk factors associated with their psychological wellbeing during this time.

Design and setting

Mixed-methods systematic review.

Method

Six bibliographic databases, Google Scholar, and MedRxiv were searched on 19 November 2020 and 3 June 2021 to identify studies of GP psychological wellbeing during the pandemic. Reference checking was also conducted. Two reviewers selected studies, extracted data, and assessed the quality of studies using standardised tools. Heterogeneity in outcomes, setting, and design prohibited statistical pooling; studies were combined using a convergent integrated thematic synthesis.

Results

Thirty-one studies were included. Multiple sources of stress were identified including changed working practices; risk, exposure, and inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE); information overload; pandemic preparedness; and cohesion across sectors. Studies demonstrated an impact on psychological wellbeing, with some GPs experiencing stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, fear of COVID-19, lower job satisfaction, and physical symptoms. Studies reported gender and age differences: women GPs had poorer psychological outcomes across all domains, and older GPs reported greater stress and burnout. Use of outcome measures and reporting practice varied greatly.

Conclusion

This review of international evidence demonstrates that the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected GPs’ wellbeing around the world. Further research could explore gender and age differences, identifying interventions targeted to these groups.
ANALISIS KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN SECARA ONLINE PADA MARKETPLACE BATIK PEKALONGAN
Authors: Herawati Heny , Ristanto Ristanto
Published: February 2022

Pertumbuhan usaha Mikro, Kecil dan Menengah  di Pekalongan saat ini masih perlu untuk ditingkatkan, Oleh karena itu perlu  suatu cara atau metode tertentu untuk memperbaikinya bagaimana  mereka dapat menjual produknya dengan baik. Upaya yang harus  dilakukan saat ini diantaranya adalah dengan menggunakan melalui media digital dengan penerapannya secara online. Penelitian ini dilakukan bertujuan untuk menganalisa keputusan pembelian secara online pada marketplace Batik pekalongan. Dengan sampel berjumlah 96 responden. Data diperoleh dengan pembagian kuesioner  kepada pengrajin dan konsumen batik pekalongan . Hasil analisis menunjukan bahwa 1). Produk mempengaruhi keputusan pembelian secara online pada marketplace batik pekalongan dengan kualitas dan corak atau motif batik yang beraneka ragam. 2). Variabel terendah dalam penelitian ini adalah harga dengan keterjangkauan di masyarakat yang akan mempengaruhi konsumen untuk melakukan keputusan pembelian secara online pada marketplace batik pekalongan
PENERAPAN MARKETING MIX PADA PERGURUAN TINGGI
Authors: Scorita Kurnia Budhy , Handayani Febbie
Published: February 2022

The number of private universities is more than public universities, of course the existence of a number of private universities is very much the cause of the emergence of great competition among private universities that are competing to form a good image of the institution in an effort to attract public attention, especially attracting interest. prospective students thus private universities can develop various efforts based on marketing concepts, especially the marketing mix with the approach of eight indicators of product, price, promotion, place, people, process, physical evidence, customer service. This study uses a qualitative research approach with research methods based on descriptive literature review of the theory of marketing mix service products with an approach to eight indicators including product management, price, promotion, place, people, process, physical evidence, customer service and based on several research results related to application of the marketing mix in universities. The results of the study show that there are eight indicators in the marketing mix that are effectively applied to universities, including the management of product, price, promotion, place, people, process, physical evidence, customer service and outside of these indicators, universities should implement efforts other than the marketing mix. which are constant, continuous, for example training, seminars and open house
PENGARUH KOMPENSASI DAN LINGKUNGAN KERJA TERHADAP PRODUKTIVITAS KERJA KARYAWAN PADA PT. ATA INTERNASIONAL INDUSTRI
Authors: Dunggio Maryam , Sukatmadjaya Ahmad , Habib Mughni
Published: February 2022

This study aims to prove the effect of compensation and work environment on employee productivity at PT. ATA International Industri. The research was conducted on production employees. The number of samples used in this research was 90 employees. This research uses analysis with the SEM-PLS model. The results of the research prove that the compensation given properly and by the agreed terms has a positive and significant effect on employee productivity. In addition, the results of this research prove that a good and comfortable work environment has a positive and significant effect on employee productivity.