bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional Risk Assessment Scores Effectively Predict Mortality in Critically Ill Patients with Severe COVID-19
Authors: Bodolea Constantin , Nemes Andrada , Avram Lucretia , Craciun Rares , Coman Mihaela , Ene-Cocis Mihaela , Ciobanu Cristina , Crisan Dana
Published: May 2022

Background: Malnutrition predicts a worse outcome for critically ill patients. However, quick, easy-to-use nutritional risk assessment tools have not been adequately validated. Aims and Methods: The study aimed to evaluate the role of four biological nutritional risk assessment instruments (the Prognostic Nutritional Index—PNI, the Controlling Nutritional Status Score—CONUT, the Nutrition Risk in Critically Ill—NUTRIC, and the modified NUTRIC—mNUTRIC), along with CT-derived fat tissue and muscle mass measurements in predicting in-hospital mortality in a consecutive series of 90 patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit for COVID-19-associated ARDS. Results: In-hospital mortality was 46.7% (n = 42/90). Non-survivors had a significantly higher nutritional risk, as expressed by all four scores. All scores were independent predictors of mortality on the multivariate regression models. PNI had the best discriminative capabilities for mortality, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.77 for a cut-off value of 28.05. All scores had an AUC above 0.72. The volume of fat tissue and muscle mass were not associated with increased mortality risk. Conclusions: PNI, CONUT, NUTRIC, and mNUTRIC are valuable nutritional risk assessment tools that can accurately predict mortality in critically ill patients with COVID-19-associated ARDS.
The Effect of Exercise and Nutritional Interventions on Body Composition in Patients with Advanced or Metastatic Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Barnes Oscar , Wilson Rebekah L. , Gonzalo-Encabo Paola , Kang Dong-Woo , Christopher Cami N. , Bentley Thomas , Dieli-Conwright Christina M.
Published: May 2022

Advanced and metastatic cancers significantly alter body composition, leading to decreased lean mass and variable effects on fat mass. These effects on body composition are associated with significant physical dysfunction and poor prognosis in patients with cancer. Whilst exercise and nutritional interventions are likely to be of benefit in counteracting these effects, relatively little is known about using such interventions in patients with advanced or metastatic cancer. Therefore, in this systematic review we examine the effect of exercise and combined exercise and nutritional interventions on lean mass and fat mass among patients diagnosed with advanced or metastatic cancer. Following PRISMA guidelines, we identified 20 articles from PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, and REHABDATA. Overall, advanced or metastatic cancer populations comprising of mixed cancer types were most commonly examined (n = 8) with exercise or combined exercise and nutritional interventions being well-tolerated with few adverse effects. Both intervention approaches may preserve lean mass, while only combined interventions may lead to alterations in fat mass. However, further exercise and nutritional studies are needed to definitively understand their effects on body composition. As exercise and nutrition-related research continues in this understudied population, the knowledge gained will help guide supportive clinical treatments.
Medicinal Plants and Their Impact on the Gut Microbiome in Mental Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pferschy-Wenzig Eva-Maria , Pausan Manuela R. , Ardjomand-Woelkart Karin , Röck Stefanie , Ammar Ramy M. , Kelber Olaf , Moissl-Eichinger Christine , Bauer Rudolf
Published: May 2022

Background: Various neurocognitive and mental health-related conditions have been associated with the gut microbiome, implicating a microbiome–gut–brain axis (MGBA). The aim of this systematic review was to identify, categorize, and review clinical evidence supporting medicinal plants for the treatment of mental disorders and studies on their interactions with the gut microbiota. Methods: This review included medicinal plants for which clinical studies on depression, sleeping disorders, anxiety, or cognitive dysfunction as well as scientific evidence of interaction with the gut microbiome were available. The studies were reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Results: Eighty-five studies met the inclusion criteria and covered thirty mental health-related medicinal plants with data on interaction with the gut microbiome. Conclusion: Only a few studies have been specifically designed to assess how herbal preparations affect MGBA-related targets or pathways. However, many studies provide hints of a possible interaction with the MGBA, such as an increased abundance of health-beneficial microorganisms, anti-inflammatory effects, or MGBA-related pathway effects by gut microbial metabolites. Data for Panax ginseng, Schisandra chinensis, and Salvia rosmarinus indicate that the interaction of their constituents with the gut microbiota could mediate mental health benefits. Studies specifically assessing the effects on MGBA-related pathways are still required for most medicinal plants.
Vitamin D and Pancreatitis: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Cai Fei , Hu Cheng , Chen Chan-Juan , Han Yuan-Ping , Lin Zi-Qi , Deng Li-Hui , Xia Qing
Published: May 2022

Emerging research indicates that vitamin D metabolic disorder plays a major role in both acute pancreatitis (AP) and chronic pancreatitis (CP). This has been demonstrated by studies showing that vitamin D deficiency is associated with pancreatitis and its anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects by binding with the vitamin D receptor (VDR). However, the role of vitamin D assessment and its management in pancreatitis remains poorly understood. In this narrative review, we discuss the recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in vitamin D/VDR signaling in pancreatic cells; the evidence from observational studies and clinical trials that demonstrate the connection among vitamin D, pancreatitis and pancreatitis-related complications; and the route of administration of vitamin D supplementation in clinical practice. Although further research is still required to establish the protective role of vitamin D and its application in disease, evaluation of vitamin D levels and its supplementation should be important strategies for pancreatitis management according to currently available evidence.
Vitamin D Status Presents Different Relationships with Severity in Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease Patients with or without Hepatitis B Infection
Authors: Luo Ling , Ye Junzhao , Shao Congxiang , Lin Yansong , Sun Yanhong , Feng Shiting , Wang Wei , Zhong Bihui
Published: May 2022

Whether the associations between serum vitamin D (VitD) and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) vary with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection has not been well established. This study aims to investigate the relationships between serum VitD and metabolism, liver fat content (LFC) and fibrosis among MAFLD patients with and without CHB. Consecutive subjects (healthy controls: 360, CHB: 684, MAFLD: 521, CHB with MAFLD: 206) were prospectively enrolled between January 2015 and December 2021. Anthropometric, laboratory, imaging, and histological evaluations were conducted, with LFC measured via magnetic resonance imaging-based proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF). Serum VitD levels were lower in MAFLD patients than in healthy controls and patients with CHB alone or overlapping with MAFLD (24.4 ± 8.1 vs. 29.0 ± 9.5 vs. 27.4 ± 9.6 vs. 26.8 ± 8.4 ng/mL respectively; p < 0.001 in one-way ANOVA test). After adjusting for confounding factors, including season, hypersensitive C-reactive protein, insulin resistance, liver stiffness measurements, sun exposure, exercise and dietary intake, multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that VitD remained significantly negatively correlated with LFC in MAFLD patients (β = −0.38, p < 0.001), but not in CHB with MAFLD patients. Moreover, quantile regression models also demonstrated that lower VitD tertiles were inversely associated with the risk of insulin resistance and moderate–severe steatosis in the MAFLD group (p for trend <0.05) but not in the MAFLD with CHB group. VitD deficiency was associated with the severity of metabolic abnormalities and steatosis independent of lifestyle factors in MAFLD-alone subjects but not in MAFLD with CHB subjects.
Methylene Blue Is a Nonspecific Protein–Protein Interaction Inhibitor with Potential for Repurposing as an Antiviral for COVID-19
Authors: Chuang Sung-Ting , Papp Henrietta , Kuczmog Anett , Eells Rebecca , Condor Capcha Jose M. , Shehadeh Lina A. , Jakab Ferenc , Buchwald Peter
Published: May 2022

We have previously identified methylene blue, a tricyclic phenothiazine dye approved for clinical use for the treatment of methemoglobinemia and for other medical applications as a small-molecule inhibitor of the protein–protein interaction (PPI) between the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and ACE2, the first critical step of the attachment and entry of this coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we show that methylene blue concentration dependently inhibits this PPI for the spike protein of the original strain as well as for those of variants of concern such as the D614G mutant and delta (B.1.617.2) with IC50 in the low micromolar range (1–5 μM). Methylene blue also showed promiscuous activity and inhibited several other PPIs of viral proteins (e.g., HCoV-NL63–ACE2, hepatitis C virus E–CD81) as well as others (e.g., IL-2–IL-2Rα) with similar potency. This nonspecificity notwithstanding, methylene blue inhibited the entry of pseudoviruses bearing the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 in hACE2-expressing host cells, both for the original strain and the delta variant. It also blocked SARS-CoV-2 (B.1.5) virus replication in Vero E6 cells with an IC50 in the low micromolar range (1.7 μM) when assayed using quantitative PCR of the viral RNA. Thus, while it seems to be a promiscuous PPI inhibitor with low micromolar activity and has a relatively narrow therapeutic index, methylene blue inhibits entry and replication of SARS-CoV-2, including several of its mutant variants, and has potential as a possible inexpensive, broad-spectrum, orally bioactive small-molecule antiviral for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
BUB3, beyond the Simple Role of Partner
Authors: Silva Patrícia M. A. , Bousbaa Hassan
Published: May 2022

The BUB3 protein plays a key role in the activation of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), a ubiquitous surveillance mechanism that ensures the fidelity of chromosome segregation in mitosis and, consequently, prevents chromosome mis-segregation and aneuploidy. Besides its role in SAC signaling, BUB3 regulates chromosome attachment to the spindle microtubules. It is also involved in telomere replication and maintenance. Deficiency of the BUB3 gene has been closely linked to premature aging. Upregulation of the BUB3 gene has been found in a variety of human cancers and is associated with poor prognoses. Here, we review the structure and functions of BUB3 in mitosis, its expression in cancer and association with survival prognoses, and its potential as an anticancer target.
An Alternative In Vitro Propagation Protocol of Cannabis sativa L. (Cannabaceae) Presenting Efficient Rooting, for Commercial Production
Authors: Ioannidis Kostas , Tomprou Ioanna , Mitsis Vangelis
Published: May 2022

An alternative in vitro propagation protocol for medical Cannabis sativa L. cultivars for pharmaceutical industrial use was established. The aim of the protocol was to reduce the culture time, offering healthy and aseptic propagating material, while making the whole process more economic for industrial use. The propagation procedure was performed using plastic autoclavable vented and non-vented vessels, containing porous rooting fine-milled sphagnum peat moss-based sponges, impregnated in ½ Murashige and Skoog liquid growth medium, supplemented with indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) at various concentrations (0, 2.46, 4.92, and 9.84 µM) or by dipping nodal cuttings into 15 mM IBA aqueous solution. The highest average root numbers per cutting, 9.47 and 7.79 for high cannabidiol (H_CBD) and high cannabigerol (H_CBG) varieties, respectively, were achieved by dipping the cuttings into IBA aqueous solution for 4 min and then placing them in non-vented vessels. The maximum average root length in H_CBD (1.54 cm) and H_CBG (0.88 cm) was ascertained using 2.46 μM filter sterilized IBA in non-vented vessels. Filter-sterilized IBA at concentrations of 2.46 μM in vented and 4.92 μM in non-vented vessels displayed the maximum average rooting percentages in H_CBD (100%) and H_CBG (95.83%), respectively. In both varieties, maximum growth was obtained in non-vented vessels, when the medium was supplemented with 4.92 μM filter-sterilized IBA. Significant interactions between variety and vessel type and variety and IBA treatments were observed in relation to rooting traits. Approximately 95% of plantlets were successfully established and acclimatized in field. This culture system can be used not only for propagating plant material at an industrial scale but also to enhance the preservation and conservation of Cannabis genetic material.
Phenotypic Variation and Peel Contribution to Fruit Antioxidant Contents in European and Japanese Plums
Authors: Drogoudi Pavlina , Pantelidis Georgios
Published: May 2022

Herein, we studied the variation in leaf and fruit morphological traits and antioxidant contents in 43 local and foreign cultivars (cvs) grown under the same experimental conditions in the widely cultivated plum species Prunus domestica and Prunus salicina. The peel contribution of fruit bioactive compounds in a serving portion, correlations among the examined parameters, and group patterns in each plum species were also studied. The species and cvs were sufficiently separated. Compared to Japanese cvs, European cvs had less elongated leaves and smaller and sweeter fruit with less total phenol and antioxidant capacities. The Japanese cvs ‘Red ace’ and the widely grown ‘Black Amber’, together with the European ‘Tuleu Dulce’, ‘BlueFre’, and the landrace ‘Asvestochoriou’ make up groups with rich dietary sources of phytochemicals. The peel tissue contained higher total phenols and antioxidant capacities compared to the flesh, while the peel/flesh ratios varied widely among the cvs (6.6-fold). The variation in the antioxidant contents was lower among the cvs calculated per serving portion (3.7-fold); yet the peel tissue contribution was equal to that of the flesh (48.6%), signifying its high nutritive value. We observed increased sweetness in the fruit in the later-harvested cultivars, while cvs with more blue- and red-colored peel generally contained higher antioxidant contents mainly in the European plums. Moreover, larger fruit sizes were positively correlated with larger and more elliptic leaf shapes. In conclusion, the significant role of the genotype and the peel tissue as a source of bioactive compounds in plums were outlined with prospects of utilization in future breeding programs.
Alterations of Content and Composition of Individual Sulfolipids, and Change of Fatty Acids Profile of Galactolipids in Lettuce Plants (Lactuca sativa L.) Grown under Sulfur Nutrition
Authors: Körber Tania T. , Frantz Noah , Sitz Tobias , Abdalla Muna A. , Mühling Karl H. , Rohn Sascha
Published: May 2022

Alterations of chloroplast membrane lipids might serve as indicators of eco-physiologically induced and plant nutrition-induced changes during plant growth. The change in the degree of fatty acid saturation in the membranes is in particular a strategy of plants to adapt to abiotic stress conditions. Green multi-leaf lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa L.) were subjected to three different sulfur (S) levels. Sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerol derivatives (SQDG) might be affected by S nutrition. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the impact of S fertilization on the content and composition of individual SQDG. In addition to a change in the SQDG composition, a general change in the total lipid composition of the chloroplast membrane was observed. A significant increase in total SQDG content and doubling of the galactolipid content and significant alterations of individual SQDG were observed at elevated levels of S fertilization. High levels of S supply demonstrated a clear trend of increasing total chloroplast lipid content and concentrations of linolenic acid, in addition to a further decline in palmitic acid. The study opens perspectives on S supply and its crucial role in the build-up of photosynthetic apparatus. Moreover, it emphasizes the role of S-containing compounds, including sulfolipids, in modulating physiological adjustment mechanisms to improve tolerance ability to various abiotic stresses in plants and, consequently, plant food quality.
Gelling Characteristics of Emulsions Prepared with Modified Whey Protein by Multiple-Frequency Divergent Ultrasound at Different Ultrasonic Power and Frequency Mode
Authors: Cheng Yu , Yeboah Georgina Benewaa , Guo Xinyi , Donkor Prince Ofori , Wu Juan
Published: May 2022

The effect of ultrasonic frequency mode (mono, dual and tri-frequency) and ultrasonic power (0–300 W) on structural properties (intrinsic fluorescence and sulfhydryl content) of whey protein was studied. Emulsions prepared with modified whey protein were used to form the heat-set gels, and the properties of whey protein emulsion gels (WPEG) and their digestion were investigated. The textural and rheological properties of WPEG prepared using whey protein pretreated by mono and dual-frequency ultrasound at the power between 180–240 W were enhanced, while those of WPEG prepared with whey protein pretreated by triple-frequency above the power of 180 W were declined. WPEG prepared using whey protein pretreated by dual-frequency ultrasound (DFU) with the power of 240 W had the highest hardness and storage modulus which were 3.07 and 1.41 times higher than the control. The microstructure of WPEG prepared using DFU pretreated whey protein showed homogeneous and denser networks than those of the control according to the results of confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM). The modification in the microstructure and properties of the WPEG prepared using DFU pretreated whey protein delayed the protein disintegration during the first 30 min of gastric digestion when compared with control. Whereas the release rate of free amino group of the WPEG prepared using whey protein modified by ultrasonic pretreatment increased during the intestinal phase when compared with that of control. The results indicated that using dual-frequency ultrasound to modify whey protein is more efficient in improving the properties of WPEG, and ultrasonic power should be considered during the application of ultrasound pretreatment in producing protein gels. The fine network of WPEG prepared with whey protein pretreated by ultrasound resulted in better hardness and storage modulus. Partially unfolding of the protein induced by ultrasound pretreatment might make the whey protein more susceptible to the digestive enzyme. Our results could provide new insights for using ultrasound as the potential processing tool on designing specific protein emulsion gels as the delivery system for nutrients.
Simulation and Modelling of Hydrogen Production from Waste Plastics: Technoeconomic Analysis
Authors: Al-Qadri Ali A. , Ahmed Usama , Abdul Jameel Abdul Gani , Zahid Umer , Usman Muhammad , Ahmad Nabeel
Published: May 2022

The global energy demand is expected to increase by 30% within the next two decades. Plastic thermochemical recycling is a potential alternative to meet this tremendous demand because of its availability and high heating value. Polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) are considered in this study because of their substantial worldwide availability in the category of plastic wastes. Two cases were modeled to produce hydrogen from the waste plastics using Aspen Plus®. Case 1 is the base design containing three main processes (plastic gasification, syngas conversion, and acid gas removal), where the results were validated with the literature. On the other hand, case 2 integrates the plastic gasification with steam methane reforming (SMR) to enhance the overall hydrogen production. The two cases were then analyzed in terms of syngas heating values, hydrogen production rates, energy efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, and process economics. The results reveal that case 2 produces 5.6% more hydrogen than case 1. The overall process efficiency was enhanced by 4.13%. Case 2 reduces the CO2 specific emissions by 4.0% and lowers the hydrogen production cost by 29%. This substantial reduction in the H2 production cost confirms the dominance of the integrated model over the standalone plastic gasification model.
Mechanical and Tribological Behavior of Functionally Graded Unidirectional Glass Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Alhazmi Waleed , Jazaa Yosef , Althahban Sultan , Mousa Saeed , Abu-Sinna Ahmed , Abd-Elhady Amr , Sallam Hossam El-Din , Atta Mahmoud
Published: May 2022

This paper aims to assess experimentally the mechanical and tribological behavior of conventional and functionally graded (FG) polymeric matrix composites reinforced with continuous glass fibers. The small punch test (SPT) and a pin-on-disc device were used in the present work to examine the mechanical and wear behavior, respectively. The hand lay-up technique was used in the present investigation to manufacture the conventional and FG composites. Various wooden looms with different nailed spacing were employed to manufacture the FG composites. According to test type, the FG composite is composed of four and ten layers, with a different glass fiber volume of fraction (Vf%) for each layer. In addition, the finite element simulation based on Hashin’s failure criterion and cohesive zone modeling was used to show the progressive failure and give more explanation regarding the flexural behavior of such composites. The present results indicate that the wear rate of an FG composite could be affected by many factors, including the disk speed, applied load, the composite layers number, and average glass fiber volume fraction. On the other hand, the arrangement of layers in the composite materials by variation of Vf% for each layer can improve the wear rate and value of the ultimate load before the fracture of the composite material when subjected to SPT. The experimental and numerical results for all SPT specimens showed that the fracture of the SPT specimens began beneath the punch tip and grew along the fiber direction. The ultimate flexural capacity of FG composites increased by 30% compared with the conventional composites.
Efficient All-Polymer Solar Cells with Sequentially Processed Active Layers
Authors: Zhao Chaoyue , Huang Hui , Wang Lihong , Zhang Guoping , Lu Guanyu , Yu Han , Lu Guanghao , Han Yulai , Qiu Mingxia , Li Shunpu , Zhang Guangye
Published: May 2022

In this work, we apply the sequential processing (SqP) method to address the relatively low electron mobility in recent all-polymer solar cells (all-PSCs) based on the polymerized small-molecule acceptor (PSMA). Compared to the blend-casting (BC) method, all-PSCs composed of PM6/PY-IT via the SqP method show boosted electron mobility and a more balanced charge carrier transport, which increases the FF of the SqP device and compensates for the short-circuit current loss, rendering comparable overall performance with the BC device. Through film-depth-dependent light absorption spectroscopy, we analyze the sub-layer absorption and exciton generation rate in the vertical direction of the device, and discuss the effect of the increased electron mobility on device performance, accordingly.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Oxidative Aging Effect on Diffusion Behaviors of Oxygen and Cyclohexane in NBR
Authors: Yang Jinsong
Published: May 2022

The influences of thermal-oxidative aging on the diffusion behaviors of oxygen and cyclohexane in nitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) at the micro-scale were investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The two types of aged rubber models were established on the basis of rubber oxidative chains modified by the introduction of hydroxyl groups and carbonyl groups in rubber chains. The diffusion behaviors of oxygen and cyclohexane in NBR under different conditions were characterized by the fractional free volume (FFV), mean square displacement (MSD), diffusion coefficients, and diffusion trajectory. It turns out that the elevated temperature contributed to the increase in the free volume and diffusion range of oxygen and cyclohexane, while the compressive stress showed the reverse influence. Additionally, the introduction of oxidative polar functional groups (hydroxyl groups and carbonyl groups) in rubber chains lowered the flexibility of the rubber chains and promoted the formation of strong polar interaction, which further inhibits the diffusion of oxygen and cyclohexane.
Numerical Modeling and Simulation of Blood Flow in a Rat Kidney: Coupling of the Myogenic Response and the Vascular Structure
Authors: Deng Wei , Tsubota Ken-ichi
Published: May 2022

A numerical simulation was carried out to investigate the blood flow behavior (i.e., flow rate and pressure) and coupling of a renal vascular network and the myogenic response to various conditions. A vascular segment and an entire kidney vascular network were modeled by assuming one single vessel as a straight pipe whose diameter was determined by Murray’s law. The myogenic response was tested on individual AA (afferent artery)–GC (glomerular capillaries)–EA (efferent artery) systems, thereby regulating blood flow throughout the vascular network. Blood flow in the vascular structure was calculated by network analysis based on Hagen–Poiseuille’s law to various boundary conditions. Simulation results demonstrated that, in the vascular segment, the inlet pressure Pinlet and the vascular structure act together on the myogenic response of each individual AA–GC–EA subsystem, such that the early-branching subsystems in the vascular network reached the well-regulated state first, with an interval of the inlet as Pinlet = 10.5–21.0 kPa, whereas the one that branched last exhibited a later interval with Pinlet = 13.0–24.0 kPa. In the entire vascular network, in contrast to the Pinlet interval (13.0–20.0 kPa) of the unified well-regulated state for all AA–GC–EA subsystems of the symmetric model, the asymmetric model exhibited the differences among subsystems with Pinlet ranging from 12.0–17.0 to 16.0–20.0 kPa, eventually achieving a well-regulated state of 13.0–18.5 kPa for the entire kidney. Furthermore, when Pinlet continued to rise (e.g., 21.0 kPa) beyond the vasoconstriction range of the myogenic response, high glomerular pressure was also related to vascular structure, where PGC of early-branching subsystems was 9.0 kPa and of late-branching one was 7.5 kPa. These findings demonstrate how the myogenic response regulates renal blood flow in vascular network system that comprises a large number of vessel elements.
Initial Cross-Calibration of Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 Using the Simultaneous Underfly Event
Authors: Gross Garrison , Helder Dennis , Begeman Christopher , Leigh Larry , Kaewmanee Morakot , Shah Ramita
Published: May 2022

With the launch of Landsat 9 in September 2021, an optimal opportunity for in-flight cross-calibration occurred when Landsat 9 flew underneath Landsat 8 while being moved into its final orbit. Since the two instruments host nearly identical imaging systems, the underfly event offered ideal cross-calibration conditions. The purpose of this work was to use the underfly imagery collected by the instruments to estimate cross-calibration parameters for Landsat 9 for a calibration update scheduled at the end of the on-orbit initial verification (OIV) period. Three types of uncertainty were considered: geometric, spectral, and angular (bidirectional reflectance distribution function—BRDF). Differences caused by geometric uncertainty were found to be negligible for this application. Spectral uncertainty was found to be minimal except for the green band when viewing vegetative targets. BRDF models derived from the MODIS BRDF product indicated substantial error could occur and required development of a mitigating methodology. With these three contributions of uncertainty properly addressed, it was estimated that the total cross-calibration uncertainty for underfly data could be kept under 1%. The data collected during the underfly were filtered to remove outliers based on uncertainty analysis. These data were used to calculate the TOA reflectance and radiance cross-calibration values for each spectral band by taking the ratio of Landsat 8 average pixel values to Landsat 9. Initial results of this approach indicated the cross-calibration may be as accurate as 0.5% in reflectance space and 1.0% in radiance space. The initial results developed in this study were used to refine the cross-calibration of Landsat 9 to Landsat 8 at the end of the OIV period.
Distribution and Characteristics of Damming Landslides Triggered by 1920 M~8 Haiyuan Earthquake, NW China
Authors: Zhang Weiheng , Xu Yueren , Guo Xinyi , Li Wenqiao , Du Peng , Tian Qinjian
Published: May 2022

Earthquake-triggered damming landslides threaten downstream residents and affect the regional landscape by disrupting water and sediment fluxes. Therefore, it is essential to study the distribution characteristics and distinctive controlling factors of earthquake-triggered damming landslides to provide a reference for treating landslide dams caused by damming landslides. This study uses the 1920 M~8 Haiyuan earthquake-triggered landslides as an example to study the characteristics and topographic effects of damming landslides in the Loess Plateau in Northwestern China. A detailed Haiyuan-earthquake-triggered damming landslide inventory was established. The statistics of terrain, geology, seismic factors, and information gain rankings were used to quantify the significance of the controlling factors. The aspect ratio, equivalent coefficient of friction, area, and slope position was calculated. Damming landslides’ distinctive geomorphic and morphological characteristics were summarized through comparisons with non-damming landslides. The results showed that damming landslides were concentrated in areas with thick loess sediment, low relief, and close proximity to a river. Loess thickness was the most critical control factor among them. Damming landslides have the geomorphological characteristics of a large ratio of length to width (L/W), a low ratio of height to length (H/L), large scales, and entire-slope failure. Moreover, damming landslides can transform the topography of the Loess Plateau through their long-term effects. These findings highlight the characteristics of damming landslides in the Loess Plateau and supplement the global landslide dam inventory. They provide a reference for assisting in earthquake-triggered damming landslides treatments in the Loess Plateau.
Knowledge about COVID-19 Best Practices in the North of Portugal and the Importance of Health Education in the Prevention of Pandemic Events
Authors: Oliveira Joana , Rodrigues Isilda , Matos Manuela , Carvalho Isabel , Matos Ana Cristina , Figueira Luís , da Conceição Fontes Maria , Alegria Nuno , Lopes Ana Patrícia , do Vale Beatriz , Cardoso Luís , Coelho Ana Cláudia
Published: May 2022

Introduction: The rapid global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has made COVID-19 one of the biggest pandemics of all time, with several devastating public health challenges. In this study, we investigated the knowledge towards COVID-19 best practices in the north of Portugal. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was performed with a convenience sample of the population of northern Portugal to assess their knowledge about COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 and measures to prevent and mitigate pandemics. An online validated questionnaire was completed by 411 participants, from September to October 2020. Results: The overall correct knowledge was 81.3%, which indicates a good knowledge by the northern Portuguese respondents about COVID-19. The correct answer score differed considerably between men and women, being significantly higher among the latter (12.28 ± 1.22; p = 0.011). Moreover, the highest knowledge was observed in participants who attended high school or above (12.27 ± 1.21; p < 0.000). Conclusion: This study contributes to the analysis of COVID-19 knowledge by the northern Portuguese population, emphasizes the crucial role of health education in the control and mitigation of the COVID-19 pandemic, and provides field-based evidence to prevent the next pandemic event.
Peer Effects of the Same and Different Religions on Faithfulness: A Comparison between Indonesia and India
Authors: Hamzah Muhammad Zilal , Kawata Yukichika , Salman Syed Ahmed , Sofilda Eleonora
Published: May 2022

By employing questionnaire surveys to empirically examine peer effects on religious faithfulness, this study mainly compares Muslims in Indonesia and India as examples. This study uses religious restrictions on foods as the main component of the questionnaire. A total of two variables were selected to examine peer effects: (1) the percentage of respondents’ close friends who follow a different religion and (2) the percentage of people in the respondents’ city who follow the same faith. Ordinary least squares/generalized least squares regression was conducted, and six models were estimated. The results reveal that Indian/Indonesian respondents are more affected by those who follow the same/different religions, respectively, suggesting that relatively smaller groups have larger peer effects on religious faithfulness. Although further investigations are required, these symmetric results may be attributed to the fact that tensions among people from different religions are high/low, and that the percentage of people who follow a different faith in the respondents’ city is high/low in India and Indonesia, respectively.
Robust Decentralized Proof of Location for Blockchain Energy Applications Using Game Theory and Random Selection
Authors: Merrad Yaçine , Habaebi Mohamed Hadi , Islam Md. Rafiqul , Gunawan Teddy Surya , Mesri Mokhtaria
Published: May 2022

To combat the problem of illegal access to a service, several location proof strategies have been proposed in the literature. In blockchain-based decentralized applications, transactions can be issued by IoT nodes or other automated smart devices. Key pair encryption and private key signing have been defined mainly for human identification in blockchain applications, where users are personally and responsibly concerned about the confidentiality of their private key. These methods are not suitable for computing nodes whose private key is implemented in the software they run. Ensuring that transactions are issued by a legitimate sender with the proper credentials is a bigger concern in applications with financial stakes. This is the case with blockchain energy trading platforms, where prosumers are credited with tokens in exchange for their contributions of energy. The tokens are issued by smart meter nodes installed at fixed locations to monitor the energy inputs and outputs of a given prosumer and claim energy tokens on its behalf from a defined smart contract in exchange for the energy it feeds into the grid. To this end, we have developed a decentralized Proof-of-Location (PoL) system tailored to blockchain applications for energy trading. It ensures that automated transactions are issued by the right nodes by using smart contract-based random selection and a game-theoretic scenario suitable for blockchain energy trading.
Asymmetry Model Based on Quasi Local Odds Symmetry for Square Contingency Tables
Authors: Ando Shuji
Published: May 2022

For the analysis of square contingency tables, the primary objective is to estimate an unknown distribution from presented data. To achieve this objective, we generally use a statistical model that fits the presented data well and has a parsimony. The recently proposed quasi local odds symmetry (QLOS) model was compared to various models that represent the structure of symmetry or asymmetry, and it provided the best fit performance compared with other models for real data. However, the QLOS model has many parameters, that is, the QLOS model is not the parsimonious model. To address this issue, this study proposes a new model that is more parsimonious than the QLOS model. The proposed model is identical to the QLOS model under the specified condition; it is the asymmetry model based on the QLOS model.Moreover, we compare the proposed model with the existing models, including the QLOS model, and show that the proposed model provides better fit performance than the existing models for real datasets.
Rickettsial Infections Are Neglected Causes of Acute Febrile Illness in Teluk Intan, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Yuhana Muhamad Yazli , Hanboonkunupakarn Borimas , Tanganuchitcharnchai Ampai , Sujariyakul Pimpan , Sonthayanon Piengchan , Chotivanich Kesinee , Pukrittayakamee Sasithon , Blacksell Stuart D. , Paris Daniel H.
Published: May 2022

Rickettsial infections are among the leading etiologies of acute febrile illness in Southeast Asia. However, recent data from Malaysia are limited. This prospective study was conducted in Teluk Intan, Peninsular Malaysia, during January to December 2016. We recruited 309 hospitalized adult patients with acute febrile illness. Clinical and biochemistry data were obtained, and patients were stratified into mild and severe infections based on the sepsis-related organ failure (qSOFA) scoring system. Diagnostic assays including blood cultures, real-time PCR, and serology (IFA and MAT) were performed. In this study, pathogens were identified in 214 (69%) patients, of which 199 (93%) patients had a single etiology, and 15 (5%) patients had >1 etiologies. The top three causes of febrile illness requiring hospitalization in this Malaysian study were leptospirosis (68 (32%)), dengue (58 (27%)), and rickettsioses (42 (19%)). Fifty-five (18%) patients presented with severe disease with a qSOFA score of ≥2. Mortality was documented in 38 (12%) patients, with the highest seen in leptospirosis (16 (42%)) followed by rickettsiosis (4 (11%)). While the significance of leptospirosis and dengue are recognized, the impact of rickettsial infections in Peninsular Malaysia remains under appreciated. Management guidelines for in-patient care with acute febrile illness in Peninsular Malaysia are needed.
Immune Response 5–7 Months after Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in Elderly Nursing Home Residents in the Czech Republic: Comparison of Three Vaccines
Authors: Martínek Jan , Tomášková Hana , Janošek Jaroslav , Zelená Hana , Kloudová Alena , Mrázek Jakub , Ježo Eduard , Král Vlastimil , Pohořská Jitka , Šturcová Hana , Maďar Rastislav
Published: May 2022

Background and Aims: Elderly nursing home residents are especially prone to a severe course of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this study, we aimed to investigate the complex immune response after vaccination depending on the convalescence status and vaccine. Methods: Sampling took place in September–October 2021. IgG antibodies against spike protein and nucleocapsid protein, the titer of virus neutralization antibodies against delta and (on a subset of patients) omicron, and cellular immunity (interferon-gamma release assay) were tested in nursing home residents vaccinated with Pfizer, Moderna (both 30–31 weeks after the completion of vaccination), or AstraZeneca (23 weeks) vaccines. The prevalence with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was evaluated in Stata version 17. Results: 95.2% (95% CI: 92.5–97.1%) of the 375 participants had positive results of anti-S IgG, 92.8% (95% CI: 89.7–95.2%) were positive in virus neutralization assay against delta, and 89.0% (95% CI: 84.5–92.5%) in the interferon-gamma-releasing assay detecting cellular immunity. Results of the virus neutralization assay against omicron correlated with those against delta but the neutralization capacity was reduced by about half. As expected, the worst results were found for the AstraZeneca vaccine, although the vaccination-to-test period was the shortest for this vaccine. All immune parameters were significantly higher in convalescent residents than in naive residents after vaccination. No case of COVID-19 occurred during the vaccination-to-test period. Conclusions: A high immune response, especially among vaccinated convalescents (i.e., residents with hybrid immunity), was found in elderly nursing home residents 5–7 months after vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. In view of this, it appears that such residents are much better protected from COVID-19 than those who are only vaccinated and the matter of individual approach to the booster dose in such individuals should be further discussed.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Titers Predict the Severity of COVID-19
Authors: Kritikos Antonios , Gabellon Sophie , Pagani Jean-Luc , Monti Matteo , Bochud Pierre-Yves , Manuel Oriol , Coste Alix , Greub Gilbert , Perreau Matthieu , Pantaleo Giuseppe , Croxatto Antony , Lamoth Frederic
Published: May 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to SARS-CoV-2 is associated with a wide spectrum of disease, ranging from asymptomatic infection to acute respiratory distress syndrome. Some biomarkers may predict disease severity. Among them, the anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody response has been related to severe disease. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between the anti-SARS-CoV-2 serological response and COVID-19 outcome. Demographic, clinical, and biological data from nasopharyngeal-PCR confirmed COVID-19 hospitalized patients were prospectively collected between April and August 2020 at our institution. All patients had serial weekly serology testing for a maximum of three blood samples or until discharge. Two different serological assays were used: a chemiluminescent assay and an in-house developed Luminex immunoassay. Kinetics of the serological response and correlation between the antibody titers and outcome were assessed. Among the 70 patients enrolled in the study, 22 required invasive ventilation, 29 required non-invasive ventilation or oxygen supplementation, and 19 did not require any oxygen supplementation. Median duration of symptoms upon admission for the three groups were 13, 8, and 9 days, respectively. Antibody titers gradually increased for up to 3 weeks since the onset of symptoms for patients requiring oxygen supplementation with significantly higher antibody titers for patients requiring invasive ventilation. Antibody titers on admission were also significantly higher in severely ill patients and serology performed well in predicting the necessity of invasive ventilation (AUC: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.67–0.9). Serology testing at admission may be a good indicator to identify severe COVID-19 patients who will require invasive mechanical ventilation.
A Comprehensive Derivation and Application of Reference Values for Benchmarking the Energy Performance of Activated Sludge Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Silva Catarina , Rosa Maria João
Published: May 2022

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are facing challenges concerning the service’s effectiveness and reliability, as well as the efficiency and sustainability of resource utilization, where energy represents one of the higher costs in activated sludge (AS) treatment. This paper presents the latest developments in the new energy performance indices (PXs) we have been developing for benchmarking, i.e., assessing and improving the performance of this widely used treatment. PXs compare the energy consumption with the energy requirements for the carbon and nitrogen removals needed for the plant’s compliance with the discharge consents (the closer they are, the better the performance). PXs are computed by applying to the state variables a performance function that is defined by the reference values for excellent, acceptable, and unsatisfactory performance. This paper shows the rationale for selecting the state variables for the AS energy performance and the comprehensive derivation of the equations to determine the reference values for energy consumption, which incorporate the effect of key parameters (flows, concentrations, and operating conditions). Reference values for the operating conditions affecting the energy performance are also proposed. A sensitivity analysis identified the key parameters for improving the aeration performance: α, F, and SOTE for air diffusers, and α and N0 for mechanical aerators. Fourteen Portuguese urban WWTPs (very diverse in size and inflows) were analyzed, and aeration (0.08–1.03 kWh/m3) represented 25–80% of total energy consumption (0.23–1.30 kWh/m3). The reference values for excellent performance were 0.23–0.39 kWh/m3 (P25–P75) for AS systems with air diffusers and 0.33–0.80 kWh/m3 for those with mechanical aerators. A comprehensive application in one WWTP (16–18 d solids retention time) showed the system’s ability at identifying which operating conditions to adjust (to F/M ratio lower than 0.09 d−1 and decreasing aeration during the low season) to improve the energy performance/savings while maintaining the treatment’s effectiveness and reliability.
Current state of stocks and harvesting of short-cycle invertebrates in the lakes of the Altai Territory
Authors:   Altai branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Russian federal research institute of fisheries and oceanography” (AltayNIRO), Barnaul, Lukerina Galina Valeryevna , Maznikova Olga Aleksandrovna ,   Russian federal research institute of fisheries and oceanography
Published: May 2022

On the territory of the Altai region, there is an extensive fund of fresh, oligo- and mixohaline, as well as hyperhaline water bodies. The paper provides actual data on the state of stocks and harvesting of invertebrates in the lakes of the Altai Territory. Commercial harvesting is carried out in oligo- and mesohaline, as well as hypersaline fishless lakes. Due to the short lifespan of these aquatic resources, all their production indicators and the state of stocks depend on the environmental conditions. The total stock of gammarids for 2015–2020 was 296 tons; chironomids — 57 tons; chaoborids — 6 tons; cladocerans — 49 tons; copepods — 8 tons; Artemia cysts — 3836 tons. Periods of the most intensive harvesting are confined to June-October for the rational use of their raw material base. The main catches of Artemia cysts and gammarids falls on September (38.0 and 39.3% of the total catch, respectively), chironomids — in September-October (56.9% of the total catch), cladocerans — in July-October (88.6% of the total catch). About 158 tons of gammarids, chironomids, chaoborids, cladocerans and copepods are mined annually, as well as 949 tons of Artemia cysts.
Accounting of estimated obligations for disposal, dismantling of fixed assets and restoration of the environment
Authors:   Izhevsk State Agricultural Academy, Selezneva I. P. , Selezneva I. A. ,   Izhevsk State Agricultural Academy, Shlyapnikova E. A. ,   Izhevsk State Agricultural Academy, Trishkanova I.E. ,   Izhevsk State Agricultural Academy, Dzhikiya K. A. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “RGAU — MSHA named after K. A. Timiryazev”
Published: May 2022

The article considers the stages of formation of the value of the estimated obligation for the upcoming dismantling, disposal of fixed assets and restoration of the environment, to be included in the initial cost of fixed assets in accordance with the norms of FSB 6/2020 “Fixed Assets” and FSB 26/2020 “Capital Investments”, approved by the order of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation dated 17.09.2020 No. 204n, mandatory for use starting with accounting statements for 2022. The features of adjusting its value in accordance with the new rules are considered.