bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Directed Evolution of a Glutathione Transferase for the Development of a Biosensor for Alachlor Determination
Authors: Perperopoulou Fereniki , Fragoulaki Maria , Papageorgiou Anastassios C. , Labrou Nikolaos E.
Published: March 2021

In the present work, DNA recombination of three homologous tau class glutathione transferases (GSTUs) allowed the creation of a library of tau class GmGSTUs. The library was activity screened for the identification of glutathione transferase (GST) variants with enhanced catalytic activity towards the herbicide alachlor (2-chloro-2′,6′-diethyl-N-(methoxymethyl)acetanilide). One enzyme variant (GmGSTsf) with improved catalytic activity and binding affinity for alachlor was identified and explored for the development of an optical biosensor for alachlor determination. Kinetics analysis and molecular modeling studies revealed a key mutation (Ile69Val) at the subunit interface (helix α3) that appeared to be responsible for the altered catalytic properties. The enzyme was immobilized directly on polyvinylidenefluoride membrane by crosslinking with glutaraldehyde and was placed on the inner surface of a plastic cuvette. The rate of pH changes observed as a result of the enzyme reaction was followed optometrically using a pH indicator. A calibration curve indicated that the linear concentration range for alachlor was 30–300 μM. The approach used in the present study can provide tools for the generation of novel enzymes for eco-efficient and environment-friendly analytical technologies. In addition, the outcome of this study gives an example for harnessing protein symmetry for enzyme design.
Theoretical Study of closo-Borate Anions [BnHn]2− (n = 5–12): Bonding, Atomic Charges, and Reactivity Analysis
Authors: Klyukin Ilya N. , Vlasova Yulia S. , Novikov Alexander S. , Zhdanov Andrey P. , Zhizhin Konstantin Y. , Kuznetsov Nikolay T.
Published: March 2021

This study has focused on the structure, bonding, and reactivity analysis of closo-borate anions [BnHn]2− (n = 5–12). Several descriptors of B–H interactions have been calculated. It has been found that the values of electron density and total energy at bond critical point are the most useful descriptors for investigation of B–H interactions. Using results from the descriptor analysis, one may conclude that orbital interactions in [BnHn]2− increase with increasing the boron cluster size. Several approaches to estimate atomic charges have been applied. Boron atoms in apical positions have more negative values of atomic charges as compared with atoms from equatorial positions. The mean values of boron and hydrogen atomic charges tend to be more positive with the increasing of boron cluster size. Global and local reactivity descriptors using conceptual density functional theory (DFT) theory have been calculated. Based on this theory, the closo-borate anions [BnHn]2− (n = 5–9) can be considered strong and moderate electrophiles, while the closo-borate anions [BnHn]2− (n = 10–12) can be considered marginal electrophiles. Fukui functions for electrophilic attack have been calculated. Fukui functions correlate well with atomic charges of the closo-borate anions. Boron atoms in apical positions have the most positive values of Fukui functions.
On Present Value Evaluation under the Impact of Behavioural Factors Using Oriented Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Piasecki Krzysztof , Łyczkowska-Hanćkowiak Anna
Published: March 2021

In general, the present value (PV) concept is ambiguous. Therefore, behavioural factors may influence on the PV evaluation. The main aim of our paper is to propose some method of soft computing PV evaluated under the impact of behavioural factors. The starting point for our discussion is the notion of the Behavioural PV (BPV) defined as an imprecisely real-valued function of distinguished variables which can be evaluated using objective financial knowledge or subjective behavioural premises. In our paper, a BPV is supplemented with a forecast of the asset price closest to changes. Such BPV is called the oriented BPV (O-BPV). We propose to evaluate an O-BPV by oriented fuzzy numbers which are more useful for portfolio analysis than fuzzy numbers. This fact determines the significance of the research described in this article. O-BPV may be applied as input signal for systems supporting invest-making. We consider here six cases of O-BPV: overvalued asset with the prediction of a rise in its price, overvalued asset with the prediction of a fall in its price, undervalued asset with the prediction of a rise in its price, undervalued asset with the prediction of a fall in its price, fully valued asset with the prediction of a rise in its rice and fully valued asset with the prediction of a fall in its rice. All our considerations are illustrated by numerical examples. Presented examples show the way in which we transform superposition of objective market knowledge and subjective investment opinion into simple return rate.
Condensing Functions and Approximate Endpoint Criterion for the Existence Analysis of Quantum Integro-Difference FBVPs
Authors: Rezapour Shahram , Imran Atika , Hussain Azhar , Martínez Francisco , Etemad Sina , Kaabar Mohammed K. A.
Published: March 2021

A nonlinear quantum boundary value problem (q-FBVP) formulated in the sense of quantum Caputo derivative, with fractional q-integro-difference conditions along with its fractional quantum-difference inclusion q-BVP are investigated in this research. To prove the solutions’ existence for these quantum systems, we rely on the notions such as the condensing functions and approximate endpoint criterion (AEPC). Two numerical examples are provided to apply and validate our main results in this research work.
The Effect of Iterative Procedures on the Robustness and Fidelity of Augmented Lagrangian SPH
Authors: Kolukisa Deniz Can , Ozbulut Murat , Yildiz Mehmet
Published: March 2021

The Augmented Lagrangian Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (ALSPH) method is a novel incompressible Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) approach that solves Navier–Stokes equations by an iterative augmented Lagrangian scheme through enforcing the divergence-free coupling of velocity and pressure fields. This study aims to systematically investigate the time step size and the number of inner iteration parameters to boost the performance of the ALSPH method. Additionally, the effects of computing spatial derivatives with two alternative schemes on the accuracy of numerical results are also scrutinized. Namely, the first scheme computes spatial derivatives on the updated particle positions at each iteration, whereas the second one employs the updated pressure and velocity fields on the initial particle positions to compute the gradients and divergences throughout the iterations. These two schemes are implemented to the solution of a flow over a circular cylinder at Reynolds numbers of 200 in two dimensions. Initially, simulations are performed in order to determine the optimum time step sizes by utilizing a maximum number of five iterations per time step. Subsequently, the optimum number of inner iterations is investigated by employing the predetermined optimum time step size under the same flow conditions. Finally, the schemes are tested on the same flow problem with different Reynolds numbers using the best performing combination of the aforementioned parameters. It is observed that the ALSPH method can enable one to increase the time step size without deteriorating the numerical accuracy as a consequence of imposing larger ALSPH penalty terms in larger time step sizes, which, overall, leads to improved computational efficiency. When considering the hydrodynamic flow characteristics, it can be stated that two spatial derivative schemes perform very similarly. However, the results indicate that the derivative operation with the updated particle positions produces slightly lower velocity divergence magnitudes at larger time step sizes.
Connecting in the Dirac Equation the Clifford Algebra of Lorentz Invariance with the Lie Algebra of SU(N) Gauge Symmetry
Authors: Marsch Eckart , Narita Yasuhito
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we study possible mathematical connections of the Clifford algebra with the su(N)-Lie algebra, or in more physical terms the links between space-time symmetry (Lorentz invariance) and internal SU(N) gauge-symmetry for a massive spin one-half fermion described by the Dirac equation. The related matrix algebra is worked out in particular for the SU(2) symmetry and outlined as well for the color gauge group SU(3). Possible perspectives of this approach to unification of symmetries are briefly discussed. The calculations make extensive use of tensor multiplication of the matrices involved, whereby our focus is on revisiting the Coleman–Mandula theorem. This permits us to construct unified symmetries between Lorentz invariance and gauge symmetry in a direct product sense.
Blockchain-Based Solutions for UAV-Assisted Connected Vehicle Networks in Smart Cities: A Review, Open Issues, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Álvares Paulo , Silva Lion , Magaia Naercio
Published: March 2021

It had been predicted that by 2020, nearly 26 billion devices would be connected to the Internet, with a big percentage being vehicles. The Internet of Vehicles (IoVa) is a concept that refers to the connection and cooperation of smart vehicles and devices in a network through the generation, transmission, and processing of data that aims at improving traffic congestion, travel time, and comfort, all the while reducing pollution and accidents. However, this transmission of sensitive data (e.g., location) needs to occur with defined security properties to safeguard vehicles and their drivers since attackers could use this data. Blockchain is a fairly recent technology that guarantees trust between nodes through cryptography mechanisms and consensus protocols in distributed, untrustful environments, like IoV networks. Much research has been done in implementing the former in the latter to impressive results, as Blockchain can cover and offer solutions to many IoV problems. However, these implementations have to deal with the challenge of IoV node’s resource constraints since they do not suffice for the computational and energy requirements of traditional Blockchain systems, which is one of the biggest limitations of Blockchain implementations in IoV. Finally, these two technologies can be used to build the foundations for smart cities, enabling new application models and better results for end-users.
Dimethyl Sulfoxide: Morphological, Histological, and Molecular View on Developing Chicken Liver
Authors: Luptakova Lenka , Dvorcakova Simona , Demcisakova Zuzana , Belbahri Lassaad , Holovska Katarina , Petrovova Eva
Published: March 2021

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is widely used as a solvent for small hydrophobic drug molecules. However, the safe volume allowing to avoid its embryotoxic effect has been poorly studied. In this study, we documented the effects of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in the developing chicken embryo at morphological, histological, and molecular levels. We focused on the developing chicken liver as the main organ involved in the process of detoxification. In our study, 100% DMSO was administered subgerminally onto the eggshell membrane (membrana papyracea) at various volumes (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 50 µL) on 4th embryonic day (ED). We focused on histopathological alterations of the liver structure, and noticed the overall impact of DMSO on developing chicken embryos (embryotoxicity, malformation). At the molecular level, we studied cytochrome P450 complex (CYP) isoform’s activities in relation to changes of CYP1A5, CYP3A37, and CYP3A80 gene expression. Total embryotoxicity after application of different doses of DMSO on ED 4, and the embryo lethality increased with increasing DMSO amounts. Overall mortality after DMSO administration ranged below 33%. Mortality was increased with higher amounts of DMSO, mainly from 20 µL. The highest mortality was observed for the highest dose of DMSO over 35 µL. The results also showed a decrease in body weight with increased application volumes of DMSO. At the histological level, we observed mainly the presence of lipid droplets and dilated bile canaliculi and sinusoids in samples over the administration of 25 µL of DMSO. While these findings were not statistically significant, DMSO treatment caused a significant different up-regulation of mRNA expression in all studied genes. For CYP1A5, CYP3A37, and CYP3A80 DMSO volumes needed were 15 µL, 10 µL, and 20 µL, respectively. A significant down-regulation of all studied CYP isoform was detected after application of a DMSO dose of 5 µL. Regarding the morphological results, we can assume that the highest safe dose of DMSO without affecting chicken embryo development and its liver is up to 10 µL. This conclusion is corroborated with the presence of number of malformations and body weight reduction, which correlates with histological findings. Moreover, the gene expression results showed that even the lowest administered DMSO volume could affect hepatocytes at the molecular level causing down-regulation of cytochrome P450 complex (CYP1A5, CYP3A37, CYP3A80).
Physical and Chemical Methods for Reduction in Aflatoxin Content of Feed and Food
Authors: Sipos Péter , Peles Ferenc , Brassó Dóra Lili , Béri Béla , Pusztahelyi Tünde , Pócsi István , Győri Zoltán
Published: March 2021

Aflatoxins (AFs) are among the most harmful fungal secondary metabolites imposing serious health risks on both household animals and humans. The more frequent occurrence of aflatoxins in the feed and food chain is clearly foreseeable as a consequence of the extreme weather conditions recorded most recently worldwide. Furthermore, production parameters, such as unadjusted variety use and improper cultural practices, can also increase the incidence of contamination. In current aflatoxin control measures, emphasis is put on prevention including a plethora of pre-harvest methods, introduced to control Aspergillus infestations and to avoid the deleterious effects of aflatoxins on public health. Nevertheless, the continuous evaluation and improvement of post-harvest methods to combat these hazardous secondary metabolites are also required. Already in-use and emerging physical methods, such as pulsed electric fields and other nonthermal treatments as well as interventions with chemical agents such as acids, enzymes, gases, and absorbents in animal husbandry have been demonstrated as effective in reducing mycotoxins in feed and food. Although most of them have no disadvantageous effect either on nutritional properties or food safety, further research is needed to ensure the expected efficacy. Nevertheless, we can envisage the rapid spread of these easy-to-use, cost-effective, and safe post-harvest tools during storage and food processing.
Wasp Venom Biochemical Components and Their Potential in Biological Applications and Nanotechnological Interventions
Authors: Abd El-Wahed Aida , Yosri Nermeen , Sakr Hanem H. , Du Ming , Algethami Ahmed F. M. , Zhao Chao , Abdelazeem Ahmed H. , Tahir Haroon Elrasheid , Masry Saad H. D. , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M. , Musharraf Syed Ghulam , El-Garawani Islam , Kai Guoyin , Al Naggar Yahya , Khalifa Shaden A. M. , El-Seedi Hesham R.
Published: March 2021

Wasps, members of the order Hymenoptera, are distributed in different parts of the world, including Brazil, Thailand, Japan, Korea, and Argentina. The lifestyles of the wasps are solitary and social. Social wasps use venom as a defensive measure to protect their colonies, whereas solitary wasps use their venom to capture prey. Chemically, wasp venom possesses a wide variety of enzymes, proteins, peptides, volatile compounds, and bioactive constituents, which include phospholipase A2, antigen 5, mastoparan, and decoralin. The bioactive constituents have anticancer, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the limited quantities of wasp venom and the scarcity of advanced strategies for the synthesis of wasp venom’s bioactive compounds remain a challenge facing the effective usage of wasp venom. Solid-phase peptide synthesis is currently used to prepare wasp venom peptides and their analogs such as mastoparan, anoplin, decoralin, polybia-CP, and polydim-I. The goal of the current review is to highlight the medicinal value of the wasp venom compounds, as well as limitations and possibilities. Wasp venom could be a potential and novel natural source to develop innovative pharmaceuticals and new agents for drug discovery.
Curcumin Alleviates LPS-Induced Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Apoptosis in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells via the NFE2L2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Ruihua , Fang Hengtong , Shen Jinglin , Jin Yongcheng , Zhao Yun , Wang Rui , Fu Yurong , Tian Yue , Yu Hao , Zhang Jing
Published: March 2021

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an endotoxin, which may cause immune response and inflammation of bovine mammary glands. Mastitis impairs animal health and results in economic loss. Curcumin (CUR) is a naturally occurring diketone compound, which has attracted widespread attention as a potential anti-inflammatory antioxidant. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether CUR can reduce the damage of bovine mammary epithelial cells (MAC-T) induced by LPS and its underlying molecular mechanism. The MAC-T cell line was treated with different concentrations of LPS and CUR for 24 h. The results showed that CUR rescued the decrease of MAC-T cell viability and cell damage induced by LPS. At the same time, 10 µM CUR and 100 µg/mL LPS were used to treat the cells in the follow-up study. The results showed CUR treatment reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the expression of inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-α), interleukin-8 (IL-8), IL-6 and IL-1β) and the rate of apoptosis induced by LPS. These effects were associated with the activation of the nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NFE2L2)-antioxidant response element (ARE) pathway coupled with inactivation of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) inflammatory and caspase/Bcl2 apoptotic pathways.
Antibody Responses in Cats Following Primary and Annual Vaccination against Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) with an Inactivated Whole-Virus Vaccine (Fel-O-Vax® FIV)
Authors: Westman Mark , Yang Dennis , Green Jennifer , Norris Jacqueline , Malik Richard , Parr Yasmin A. , McDonald Mike , Hosie Margaret J. , VandeWoude Sue , Miller Craig
Published: March 2021

Although the antibody response induced by primary vaccination with Fel-O-Vax® FIV (three doses, 2–4 weeks apart) is well described, the antibody response induced by annual vaccination with Fel-O-Vax® FIV (single dose every 12 months after primary vaccination) and how it compares to the primary antibody response has not been studied. Residual blood samples from a primary FIV vaccination study (n = 11), and blood samples from cats given an annual FIV vaccination (n = 10), were utilized. Samples from all 21 cats were tested with a commercially available PCR assay (FIV RealPCRTM), an anti-p24 microsphere immunoassay (MIA), an anti-FIV transmembrane (TM; gp40) peptide ELISA, and a range of commercially available point-of-care (PoC) FIV antibody kits. PCR testing confirmed all 21 cats to be FIV-uninfected for the duration of this study. Results from MIA and ELISA testing showed that both vaccination regimes induced significant antibody responses against p24 and gp40, and both anti-p24 and anti-gp40 antibodies were variably present 12 months after FIV vaccination. The magnitude of the antibody response against both p24 and gp40 was significantly higher in the primary FIV vaccination group than in the annual FIV vaccination group. The differences in prime versus recall post-vaccinal antibody levels correlated with FIV PoC kit performance. Two FIV PoC kits that detect antibodies against gp40, namely Witness® and Anigen Rapid®, showed 100% specificity in cats recently administered an annual FIV vaccination, demonstrating that they can be used to accurately distinguish vaccination and infection in annually vaccinated cats. A third FIV PoC kit, SNAP® Combo, had 0% specificity in annually FIV-vaccinated cats, and should not be used in any cat with a possible history of FIV vaccination. This study outlines the antibody response to inactivated Fel-O-Vax® FIV whole-virus vaccine, and demonstrates how best to diagnose FIV infection in jurisdictions where FIV vaccination is practiced.
Small Molecules—Prospective Novel HCMV Inhibitors
Authors: Bogner Elke , Egorova Anna , Makarov Vadim
Published: March 2021

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a member of the betaherpesvirinae, can cause life-threatening diseases. HCMV is globally widespread, with a seroprevalence in adults varying from 50 to 100%. HCMV infection is rarely of significant consequence in immunocompetent individuals. However, although immune control is efficient, it cannot achieve the clearance of the virus. HCMV persists lifelong in the infected host and reactivates in certain circumstances. In neonates and in immunocompromised adults, HCMV is a serious pathogen that can cause fatal organ damage. Different antiviral compounds alone or in combination have been used for the treatment of HCMV diseases. In clinical use, mutations in the viral DNA polymerase or the terminase confer resistance to ganciclovir, foscarnet, cidofovir, and letermovir. There is an urgent need to find new well-tolerated compounds supporting different modes of action. The list of novel small molecules that might have anti-HCMV activity has grown in recent years. In this short review, a selection of compounds in clinical trials and novel inhibitors targeting host-cell factors or viral proteins is presented, and their modes of action, described.
Association between Venom Immunotherapy and Changes in Serum Protein—Peptide Patterns
Authors: Matysiak Joanna , Matuszewska Eliza , Kowalski Marek L. , Kosiński Sławomir W. , Smorawska-Sabanty Ewa , Matysiak Jan
Published: March 2021

Venom immunotherapy (VIT) is administered to allergic patients to reduce the risk of dangerous systemic reactions following an insect sting. To better understand the mechanism of this treatment and its impact on the human organism, we analysed serum proteomic patterns obtained at five time-points from Hymenoptera-venom-allergic patients undergoing VIT. For statistical analyses, patients were additionally divided into two groups (high responders and low responders) according to serum sIgG4 levels. VIT was found to be associated with changes in seven proteins: the fibrinogen alpha chain, complement C4-A, complement C3, filamin-B, kininogen-1, myosin-9 and inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H1. The number of discriminative m/z (mass-to-charge ratio) features increased up to the 90th day of VIT, which may be associated with the development of immunity after the administration of increased venom doses. It may also suggest that during VIT, there may occur processes involved not only in protein synthesis but also in protein degradation (caused by proteolytic venom components). The results are consistent with measured serum sIgG4 levels, which increased from 2.04 mgA/I at baseline to 7.25 mgA/I at 90 days. Moreover, the major proteomic changes were detected separately in the high responder group. This may suggest that changes in protein–peptide profiles reflect the actual response to VIT.
COVID-19 Vaccine Roll-Out in South Africa and Zimbabwe: Urgent Need to Address Community Preparedness, Fears and Hesitancy
Authors: Dzinamarira Tafadzwa , Nachipo Brian , Phiri Bright , Musuka Godfrey
Published: March 2021

South Africa became one of the first African countries to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. As the rest of Africa prepares to receive COVID-19 vaccines, most countries in Africa have set up national-level coordination committees for developing national vaccination deployment plans. While the main focus of these committees has been on setting up strategies that facilitate the swift distribution of COVID-19 vaccines once they are available, the role of effective public health awareness should not be ignored. Countries must devise strategies on how best to enhance public understanding and curb misinformation about the vaccines. With this viewpoint, we unpack the threat of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and offer recommendations for COVID-19 vaccine communication strategies in the South African and Zimbabwean contexts.
Immunity against Lagovirus europaeus and the Impact of the Immunological Studies on Vaccination
Authors: Müller Claudia , Hrynkiewicz Rafał , Bębnowska Dominika , Maldonado Jaime , Baratelli Massimiliano , Köllner Bernd , Niedźwiedzka-Rystwej Paulina
Published: March 2021

In the early 1980s, a highly contagious viral hemorrhagic fever in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) emerged, causing a very high rate of mortality in these animals. Since the initial occurrence of the rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV), several hundred million rabbits have died after infection. The emergence of genetically-different virus variants (RHDV GI.1 and GI.2) indicated the very high variability of RHDV. Moreover, with these variants, the host range broadened to hare species (Lepus). The circulation of RHDV genotypes displays different virulences and a limited induction of cross-protective immunity. Interestingly, juvenile rabbits (<9 weeks of age) with an immature immune system display a general resistance to RHDV GI.1, and a limited resistance to RHDV GI.2 strains, whereas less than 3% of adult rabbits survive an infection by either RHDV GI.1. or GI.2. Several not-yet fully understood phenomena characterize the RHD. A very low infection dose followed by an extremely rapid viral replication could be simplified to the induction of a disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC), a severe loss of lymphocytes—especially T-cells—and death within 36 to 72 h post infection. On the other hand, in animals surviving the infection or after vaccination, very high titers of RHDV-neutralizing antibodies were induced. Several studies have been conducted in order to deepen the knowledge about the virus’ genetics, epidemiology, RHDV-induced pathology, and the anti-RHDV immune responses of rabbits in order to understand the phenomenon of the juvenile resistance to this virus. Moreover, several approaches have been used to produce efficient vaccines in order to prevent an infection with RHDV. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge about anti-RHDV resistance and immunity, RHDV vaccination, and the further need to establish rationally-based RHDV vaccines.
Strategies Targeting Hemagglutinin as a Universal Influenza Vaccine
Authors: Bullard Brianna L. , Weaver Eric A.
Published: March 2021

Influenza virus has significant viral diversity, both through antigenic drift and shift, which makes development of a vaccine challenging. Current influenza vaccines are updated yearly to include strains predicted to circulate in the upcoming influenza season, however this can lead to a mismatch which reduces vaccine efficacy. Several strategies targeting the most abundant and immunogenic surface protein of influenza, the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, have been explored. These strategies include stalk-directed, consensus-based, and computationally derived HA immunogens. In this review, we explore vaccine strategies which utilize novel antigen design of the HA protein to improve cross-reactive immunity for development of a universal influenza vaccine.
Continuous HIV-1 Escape from Autologous Neutralization and Development of Cross-Reactive Antibody Responses Characterizes Slow Disease Progression of Children
Authors: Dispinseri Stefania , Cavarelli Mariangela , Tolazzi Monica , Plebani Anna Maria , Jansson Marianne , Scarlatti Gabriella
Published: March 2021

The antibodies with different effector functions evoked by Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) transmitted from mother to child, and their role in the pathogenesis of infected children remain unresolved. So, too, the kinetics and breadth of these responses remain to be clearly defined, compared to those developing in adults. Here, we studied the kinetics of the autologous and heterologous neutralizing antibody (Nab) responses, in addition to antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), in HIV-1 infected children with different disease progression rates followed from close after birth and five years on. Autologous and heterologous neutralization were determined by Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC)- and TZMbl-based assays, and ADCC was assessed with the GranToxiLux assay. The reactivity to an immunodominant HIV-1 gp41 epitope, and childhood vaccine antigens, was assessed by ELISA. Newborns displayed antibodies directed towards the HIV-1 gp41 epitope. However, antibodies neutralizing the transmitted virus were undetectable. Nabs directed against the transmitted virus developed usually within 12 months of age in children with slow progression, but rarely in rapid progressors. Thereafter, autologous Nabs persisted throughout the follow-up of the slow progressors and induced a continuous emergence of escape variants. Heterologous cross-Nabs were detected within two years, but their subsequent increase in potency and breadth was mainly a trait of slow progressors. Analogously, titers of antibodies mediating ADCC to gp120 BaL pulsed target cells increased in slow progressors during follow-up. The kinetics of antibody responses to the immunodominant viral antigen and the vaccine antigens were sustained and independent of disease progression. Persistent autologous Nabs triggering viral escape and an increase in the breadth and potency of cross-Nabs are exclusive to HIV-1 infected slowly progressing children.
Modeling Transport and Adsorption of Arsenic Ions in Iron-Oxide Laden Porous Media. Part I: Theoretical Developments
Authors: Pillai Krishna , Raizada Aman
Published: March 2021

The process of transport and trapping of arsenic ions in porous water filters is treated as a classic mass transport problem which, at the pore scale, is modeled using the traditional convection-diffusion equation, representing the migration of species present in very small (tracer) amounts in water. The upscaling, conducted using the volume averaging method, reveals the presence of two possible forms of the macroscopic equations for predicting arsenic concentrations in the filters. One is the classic convection-dispersion equation with the total dispersion tensor as its main transport coefficient, and which is obtained from a closure formulation similar to that of the passive diffusion problem. The other equation form includes an additional transport coefficient, hitherto ignored in the literature and identified here as the adsorption-induced vector. These two coefficients in the latter form are determined from a system of two closure problems that include the effects of both the passive diffusion as well as the adsorption of arsenic by the solid phase of the filter. This theoretical effort represents the first serious effort to introduce a detailed micro–macro coupling while modeling the transport of arsenic species in water filters representing homogeneous porous media.
Communicating Managed Retreat in California
Authors: Bragg Wendy , Gonzalez Sara , Rabearisoa Ando , Stoltz Amanda
Published: March 2021

California cities face growing threats from sea-level rise as increased frequency and severity of flooding and storms cause devastating erosion, infrastructure damage, and loss of property. Management plans are often designed to prevent or slow flooding with short-term, defensive strategies such as shoreline hardening, beach nourishment, and living shorelines. By contrast, managed retreat focuses on avoiding hazards and adapting to changing shorelines by relocating out of harm’s way. However, the term “managed retreat” can be controversial and has engendered heated debates, defensive protests, and steady resistance in some communities. Such responses have stymied inclusion of managed retreat in adaptation plans, and in some cases has resulted in complete abandonment of the policy review process. We examined the Local Coastal Program review process in seven California communities at imminent risk of sea-level rise and categorized each case as receptive or resistant to managed retreat. Three prominent themes distinguished the two groups: (1) inclusivity, timing, and consistency of communication, (2) property ownership, and (3) stakeholder reluctance to change. We examined use of terminology and communication strategies and provided recommendations to communicate “managed retreat” more effectively.
Access to Water and Sanitation Services in Brazilian Vulnerable Areas: The Role of Regulation and Recent Institutional Reform
Authors: Narzetti Daniel Antonio , Marques Rui Cunha
Published: March 2021

Access to water and sanitation services (WSSs) in low- or middle-income countries is constrained by the poverty and vulnerability conditions of the population. In this context, it is urgent to establish public policies for WSSs that will increase the economic access to these services so that they will be more comprehensive and comprise the entire population, ensuring a balance between social and financial objectives. This paper contributes to a better understanding of the provision of WSSs in vulnerable areas and of the difficulty in achieving universal access using Brazil as a case study. The role of regulation in the provision of WSSs in vulnerable areas and the impact of the recent institutional reform that took place last year in that country is discussed. The different experiences analyzed provide interesting lessons that contribute to the improvement of the Brazilian status quo and that, at the same time, can be good practices that can be applied in other countries. One of the main conclusions of this research is related to the contributions that regulation should provide in the universalization of WSSs, mainly when the provision of these services is ruled by a contract. Furthermore, we observed that public authorities have resigned their role in this scope and that they must be more effective and, particularly, more proactive so that universalization can be achieved.
Simplified Indirect Estimation of Pump Flow Discharge: An Example from Serbia
Authors: Rašić Amon Milica , Radić Milan , Stajić Zoran , Brkić Dejan , Praks Pavel
Published: March 2021

In the absence of a flowmeter or due to its inaccuracy, the flow rate at the discharge section of the pipeline following the observed pump can be roughly estimated if the pressure can be measured instead. To use the proposed procedure two main conditions should be achieved: (1) a manometer should be installed at the discharge pipeline between the pump and the flow regulation valve, and (2) the actual curve that relates pressure and flow for the observed pump unit should be known in advance. The described example is from Serbia, but it is of interest for any water pumping station with a submersible pump (installed in wells or tanks) where a limited number of adequate places for the measuring of flow are available (if any are available at all), but where the pressure at the discharge pipe of the observed pump can be measured. This simplified method can find applicability in installations in remote rural regions where limited resources are available. The results show that the calculated values of the flow obtained by the presented method deviate greatly in relation to the measured values provided by the portable ultrasonic flowmeter, up to 60% at one of the measuring points. However, in relation to the measured values provided by the permanently installed flowmeter the discrepancy is significantly lower (0.6–6.8%).
Pt Deposits on Bi-Modified Pt Electrodes of Nanoparticle and Disk: A Contrasting Behavior of Formic Acid Oxidation
Authors: Lee Hyein , Kim Young Jun , Sohn Youngku , Rhee Choong Kyun
Published: March 2021

This work presents a contrasting behavior of formic acid oxidation (FAO) on the Pt and Bi deposits on different Pt substrates. Using irreversible adsorption method, Bi and Pt were sequentially deposited on Pt electrodes of nanoparticle (Pt NP) and disk (Pt disk). The deposited layers of Bi and Pt on the Pt substrates were characterized with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy. The electrochemical behaviors and FAO enhancements of Pt NP and Pt disk with deposited Bi only (i.e., Bi/Pt NP and Bi/Pt disk), were similar to each other. However, additional deposition of Pt on Bi/Pt NP and Bi/Pt disk (i.e., Pt/Bi/Pt NP and Pt/Bi/Pt disk) changed the electrochemical behavior and FAO activity in different ways depending on the shapes of the Pt substrates. With Pt/Bi/Pt NP, the hydrogen adsorption was suppressed and the surface oxidation of Pt was enhanced; while with Pt/Bi/Pt disk, the opposite behavior was observed. This difference was interpreted as a stronger interaction between the deposited Bi and Pt on Pt NP than that on Pt disk. The FAO performance on Pt/Bi/Pt NP is much better than that on Pt/Bi/Pt disk, most likely due to the difference in the interaction between the deposited Pt and Bi depending on the shapes of Pt substrates. In designing FAO electrochemical catalysts using Pt and Bi, the shape of a Pt substrate was concluded to be critically considered.
Şeyhülislâm Yahyâ’nın Gazellerinde Zaman Mefhumu
Authors: YAVUZ Nihal
Published: March 2021

Zaman, insanlık tarihi boyunca zihinleri meşgul eden problemlerden biri olmuştur. Sınırlı ve ne kadar süreceği belli olmayan hayatında insan, zamanı anlamaya, aşmaya ve tanımlamaya gayret etmiştir. Felsefî açıdan kozmolojik, insan merkezli ve insan dışı unsurlarla temellendirilerek zamana dair açıklamalar getirilmiştir. Zaman mitolojilerde ise tanrı olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır. Bunun yanında zaman İslamiyet’in de üzerinde durduğu bir konu olmuştur. Doğu ve Batı düşünce sisteminde, mitolojilerde, dinlerde, tasavvufta önemli bir yer işgal eden zaman, edebiyatta da önemli ölçüde kendine yer bulmuştur. Zaman, klasik Türk edebiyatının en çok tercih edilen nazım şekli olan gazellerde geçicilik, tahripkârlık, acımasızlık gibi sıfatlarla aşığın üzerinde olumsuz etkiler yaratan bir unsur olarak işlenir. Tasavvuf anlayışının bir ürünü olan ibnü’l-vakt düşüncesi ile geçmiş ve gelecek zamandan ziyade âna vurgu yapan anlayış eserlerde ele alınır. Bunlardan başka, yaşadığı toplumun bir parçası olan şairlerin şiirlerinde, yaşadıkları devrin ruhunu görmek de mümkündür. 17. yüzyılda yaşayan ve gazelde usta olarak kabul edilen Şeyhülislâm Yahyâ Efendi, akıcı ve rindâne gazelleriyle dikkat çeken bir şairdir. Bu çalışmada, Şeyhülislâm Yahyâ Dîvânı’nda yer alan gazellerden hareketle, âşık kimliğiyle karşımıza çıkan şairin zaman üzerine getirdiği yorum ve yaklaşımlar doküman analizi yöntemiyle incelenmiş; gazeller üzerinden şairin zaman algısı irdelenmiştir. Bu irdeleme sonucunda genel olarak mitoloji temelli bir zaman anlayışının şairin gazellerine yansıdığı görülmüştür.
URGENSI PENDIDIKAN ANTIKORUPSI TERHADAP PENCEGAHAN KORUPSI DALAM PENDIDIKAN DASAR
Authors: Widiartana Gregorius , Setyawan Vincentius Patria
Published: March 2021

Corruption eradication in Indonesia is still not optimal and still prioritizes repressive actions against corruption cases that have occurred. The implementation of such efforts is ineffective in eradicating corruption because corruption has taken root in the legal culture of society. One of the ways that can be implemented in efforts to eradicate corruption is to prevent corruption which can be done by providing anti-corruption education, especially for students at the primary education level. Primary education is the focus of providing anti-corruption education because it is at this level that the character building of a person, and anti-corruption education is actually character education.                             Keywords : Corruption Prevention, Corruption Crime, Anti-Corruption Education.
História, Literatura e Historiografia
Authors: de Moura Cavalcante Melo Ana Amélia
Published: March 2021

Os trabalhos aqui reunidos fizeram parte dos Simpósios Temáticos “Escrita da História e História da Literatura”, “História e Quadrinhos”, História e Literatura na América Latina” e “Imprensa, impresso e história: circulação de saberes didático-intelectual nos séculos XIX e XX”. Como se poderá observar, não apenas os temas foram diversos, como as perspectivas e lentes de aproximação foram variados e ricos, dando mostras de uma vasta reflexão já consolidada no campo da história cultural e da história social.

Como nos fala Roger Chartier (2002, p. 255), o historiador hoje, ao abordar o texto literário, não pode prescindir de algumas interrogantes que apontam para os sentidos que leitores, espectadores e ouvintes dão a esse tipo de texto. Deve-se ressaltar ainda que o historiador pode encontrar bons estímulos para a análise histórica não apenas na literatura, mas também na crítica literária, especialmente quando essa pensa “texto e contexto numa interpretação dialeticamente íntegra”, no dizer de Antonio Candido (2006, p. 13). A relação entre texto e contexto é discutida por Candido de forma a estabelecer claras fronteiras entre os estudos sociológicos e históricos e os estudos literários. Para os primeiros, como nos diz o crítico paulista, interessa examinar a origem social do escritor, as relações entre uma obra e as visões de mundo e ideias de uma época, o livro, as preferências por um determinado gênero, por um determinado autor etc. (CANDIDO, 2006, p. 14).
História Agrária Migrações e Escravidão
Authors: Martins Viana Júnior Mário
Published: March 2021

Livro com artigos apresentados no VI Seminário Internacional História e Historiografia. Os trabalhos aqui reunidos fizeram parte dos Simpósios Temáticos “História agrária e deslocamentos: terra, trabalho e migrações”, “Trabalho, cultura e migrações (Norte, Nordeste e Centro-Oeste)”, “Amazônia, migrações e trabalho”, “História e Historiografia dos Sertões em múltiplas leituras” e “Escravidão negra de origem africana no Brasil setentrional”. Através dos textos aqui reunidos, o/a leitor/a poderá fazer uma longa imersão temporal e espacial, com foco nas regiões Norte e Nordeste do país. Perscrutando os séculos XIX , XX e XXI, há estudos que contemplam as diferentes formas de acesso e uso da terra, bem como a variedade de tipos de trabalhos e conflitos no meio rural.
Digital Simulations as Approximations of Practice: Preparing Preservice Teachers to Facilitate Whole-Group Discussions of Controversial Issues
Authors: Kaka Sarah , Littenberg-Tobias Joshua , Kessner Taylor , Francis Anthony Tuf , Kennett Katrina , Marvez G.R. , Reich Justin
Published: March 2021

The public schoolhouse is one of the few remaining public spaces in which citizens may routinely gather to discuss controversial issues. Furthermore, it is social studies classrooms and teachers, in particular, that bear the moral imperative to ensure such civic discourse takes place. Nevertheless, many social studies teachers refrain from centering such discussions in their classrooms, often for fear of reprisal should these discussions go awry. It thus falls to social studies teacher educators to rethink how we prepare future teachers. This paper reports on a study that incorporated digital simulations of controversial issues into three preservice social studies teacher preparation methods courses to help develop high-leverage practices associated with leading whole-group discussions. Case study analysis suggests participants developed greater fluency with the teacher moves they practiced in the simulation. Accordingly, participants’ developed greater confidence with and perceived importance of facilitating discussions of controversial issues in their future classrooms. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
The Dynamic Interaction of Water Droplet with Nano-Stalagmite Functional Groups of Taro Leaf Surface
Authors: Negara K. M. T. , Widhiyanuriyawan D. , Hamidi N. , Wardana I. N. G.
Published: March 2021

This research is aimed at uncovering the dynamic interaction of a small water droplet with taro (colocasiaesculenta L) leaf surface that generates superhydrophobicity and leads to the electron jump phenomena. The discussion is supported by the Scanning Electron Microscope, Energy Dispersive X-ray, and Fourier Transform Infra Red analyses of the taro leaf surface. The superhydrophobicity from the contact angle between the droplet and the taro leaf surface during the electron jump was measured using an electrode of aluminum foil attached under the taro leaf. The result shows that the taro leaf surface is covered by a wax layer, which has a nano-stalagmite structure comprising functional groups with some amount of mineral on top. The superhydrophobic field is created by nano-stalagmites primarily composed of Primary and Secondary Amines and Amides (bend) that tend to repel the water droplet. The extremely high surface tension or surface energy results from the repelling force from the nano-stalagmite over the very small radius of the nanostructure. Furthermore, the electron jump is primarily generated due to the high energy of the surface tension of the nano-stalagmite structure assisted by the minerals atop the stalagmite. The electrons jump from their orbit when the functional groups come in contact with H+ and OH- ions of the water droplet. The additional impulse force generated by the collision of the water droplet with the leaf surface along with the dynamic motion of the droplet strengthens the surface tension that pumps more electrons out of their orbit, thereby increasing the electrical voltage.
Weights of Factors Contributing to Flood Formation in the Lam River Basin, Vietnam
Authors: Dung Nguyen Ba , Minh Dang Tuyet , Long Nguyen Quoc , Ha Le Thi Thu
Published: March 2021

There are many factors that influence the formation and development of floods, such as rainfall, soil, slope, land cover, drainage, and density. Therefore, a quantitative assessment of their importance is necessary, especially in the determination of flood risk zones, using the Analytic Hierarchy Process algorithm and Geographic Information System. In comparison with other methodologies, an obvious advantage of Analytic Hierarchy Process is the ability to solve multi-variable qualitative and quantitative problems with precise and trustworthy results. This paper presents the application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process algorithm in analyzing and evaluating the level at which various criteria affect flood risk in the Lam River basin. Some of the flood-causative factors considered in this paper are annual rainfall, soil, slope, land cover, drainage density, and relative slope length. These factors were chosen based on the physical conditions of the study area. The research results are the weight of different criteria. The higher the weight, the higher the effect of that criterion on flood risk. The computed weights show that annual rainfall and slope are the factors that contribute the most to flooding, based on decision-makers’ judgement. The results of this article can be used to construct a flood risk zoning map and flood susceptibility map for flood warnings in the Lam River basin, using the Analytic Hierarchy Process method and Geographic Information System technology. New research shows that Analytic Hierarchy Process can be trustworthy when assessing the level of influence of the different factors on determining flood-prone areas in the Lam River basin, as well as other basins.