bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobile Applications for Epilepsy: Where Are We? Where Should We Go? A Systematic Review
Authors: Abreu Mariana , Carmo Ana Sofia , Franco Ana , Parreira Sara , Vidal Beatriz , Costa Mariana , Peralta Ana Rita , da Silva Hugo Plácido , Bentes Carla , Fred Ana
Published: February 2022

The development of mobile health for epilepsy has grown in the last years, bringing new applications (apps) to the market and improving already existing ones. In this systematic review, we analyse the scope of mobile apps for seizure detection and epilepsy self-management, with two research questions in mind: what are the characteristics of current solutions and do they meet users’ requirements? What should be considered when designing mobile health for epilepsy? We used PRISMA methodology to search within App Store and Google Play Store from February to April of 2021, reaching 55 potential apps. A more thorough analysis regarding particular features was performed on 26 of those apps. The content of these apps was evaluated in five categories, regarding if there was personalisable content; features related to medication management; what aspects of seizure log were present; what type of communication prevailed; and if there was any content related to seizure alarm or seizure action plans. Moreover, the 26 apps were evaluated through using MARS by six raters, including two neurologists. The analysis of MARS categories was performed for the top and bottom apps, to understand the core differences. Overall, the lowest MARS scores were related to engagement and information, which play a big part in long-term use, and previous studies raised the concern of assuring continuous use, especially in younger audiences. With that in mind, we identified conceptual improvement points, which were divided in three main topics: customisation, simplicity and healthcare connection. Moreover, we summarised some ideas to improve m-health apps catered around long-term adherence. We hope this work contributes to a better understanding of the current scope in mobile epilepsy management, endorsing healthcare professionals and developers to provide off-the-shelf solutions that engage patients and allows them to better manage their condition.
Beneficial Microbes and Molecules for Mitigation of Soil Salinity in Brassica Species: A Review
Authors: Petrić Ines , Šamec Dunja , Karalija Erna , Salopek-Sondi Branka
Published: February 2022

Salt stress results from excessive salt accumulation in the soil can lead to a reduction in plant growth and yield. Due to climate change, in the future climatic pressures, changed precipitation cycles and increased temperature will increase the pressures on agriculture, including increasing severity of salt stress. Brassica species contains oilseed and vegetable crops with great economic importance. Advances in understanding the mechanisms of salt stress in Brassica plants have enabled the development of approaches to better induce plant defense mechanisms at the time of their occurrence through the use of beneficial microorganisms or molecules. Both endophytic and rhizospheric microbes contribute to the mitigation of abiotic stresses in Brassica plants by promoting the growth of their host under stress conditions. In this review we summarized so far reported microorganisms with beneficial effects on Brassica plants and their mode of action. Another approach in mitigating the harmful effect of soil salinity may involve the application of different molecules that are involved in the stress response of Brassica plants. We reviewed and summarized their potential mode of action, methods of application and pointed out further research directions.
Analysis of Effects on the Dual Circulation Promotion Policy for Cross-Border E-Commerce B2B Export Trade Based on System Dynamics during COVID-19
Authors: Chen Tinggui , Qiu Yiwen , Wang Bing , Yang Jianjun
Published: February 2022

In 2020, the cross-border e-commerce industry suffered a setback against the backdrop of the global epidemic. In the context of the global epidemic and economic structural reform and transformation, China has proposed a new economic pattern of “dual circulation” development, and this measure has greatly promoted the development of China’s cross-border e-commerce industry. According to relevant data, the export share of China’s cross-border e-commerce accounted for 77.6% of its market size in 2020. As a result, this paper studies the influence of the “dual circulation” measure on the development of cross-border e-commerce B2B export trade and classifies and analyzes the policies related to the cross-border e-commerce industry in the “dual circulation” measure. Then, a system dynamics model reflecting the lag effect of this measure on cross-border e-commerce B2B export is also constructed, and the effects of different single policies and different policy combinations on cross-border e-commerce B2B export are simulated successively. The modeling process and simulation results demonstrate that: (1) infrastructure investment of cross-border e-commerce is most affected by policy lag, followed by government supervision and enterprise operation, while talent training of cross-border e-commerce and customs supervision are almost not affected by policy lag; (2) tax policy, customs clearance policy, and fiscal policy have greater effects on the promotion of cross-border e-commerce B2B exports, while the payment policy and talent policy have less impact on them; and (3) from the simulation results of policy combination, it can be seen that the regulatory environment (i.e., regulatory policies) is the most important to promote cross-border e-commerce B2B export trade, followed by financial support, customs environment, and business environment. Finally, this paper gives suggestions for the formulation of relevant government policies to promote the development of cross-border e-commerce B2B export trade and provide some reference values for other governments to develop the cross-border e-commerce B2B export trade industry.
Patterns of Pneumatization of the Posterior Nasal Roof
Authors: Mureșan Alexandru Nicolae , Rusu Mugurel Constantin , Rădoi Petrinel Mugurel , Toader Corneliu
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: For good surgical performance, sound knowledge of anatomy is required. Although the ethmoid air cells and sphenoid sinuses are subject to a high degree of variation, their possible extensions above the nasal fossa at the posterior end of the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone (CPEB) were seemingly overlooked. (2) Methods: We retrospectively studied 162 case files from 55 male and 107 female cases, with ages varying from 42 to 80, which were scanned using Cone Beam Computed Tomography. (3) Results: In 56.17% of cases, an unpneumatized CPEB (type I) was found. Nasal roof recesses of ethmoidal origin (type II) were found at the posterior end of the CPEB in 20.37% of cases. Different types of sphenoidal pneumatizations of the posterior end of the CPEB (type III) were found in 22.83% of the cases. Onodi cells projected nasal roof recesses (type IV) in only 10 cases. In all types, nasal roof recesses were found either above the CPEB or within/underneath it. Moreover, such nasal roof recesses were found to be either unilateral, extended contralaterally, or bilateral. (4) Conclusions: As such recesses of the posterior CPEB, previously overlooked, belong to the posterior rhinobase, they should be carefully documented preoperatively to avoid unwanted surgical damage to the olfactory bulb or CSF fistula.
Missed Breast Cancers on MRI in High-Risk Patients: A Retrospective Case–Control Study
Authors: Bilocq-Lacoste Julie , Ferre Romuald , Kuling Grey , Martel Anne L. , Tyrrell Pascal N. , Li Siying , Wang Guan , Curpen Belinda
Published: February 2022

Purpose: To determine if MRI features and molecular subtype influence the detectability of breast cancers on MRI in high-risk patients. Methods and Materials: Breast cancers in a high-risk population of 104 patients were diagnosed following MRI describing a BI-RADS 4–5 lesion. MRI characteristics at the time of diagnosis were compared with previous MRI, where a BI-RADS 1–2–3 lesion was described. Results: There were 77 false-negative MRIs. A total of 51 cancers were overlooked and 26 were misinterpreted. There was no association found between MRI characteristics, the receptor type and the frequency of missed cancers. The main factors for misinterpreted lesions were multiple breast lesions, prior biopsy/surgery and long-term stability. Lesions were mostly overlooked because of their small size and high background parenchymal enhancement. Among missed lesions, 50% of those with plateau kinetics on initial MRI changed for washout kinetics, and 65% of initially progressively enhancing lesions then showed plateau or washout kinetics. There were more basal-like tumours in BRCA1 carriers (50%) than in non-carriers (13%), p = 0.0001, OR = 6.714, 95% CI = [2.058–21.910]. The proportion of missed cancers was lower in BRCA carriers (59%) versus non-carriers (79%), p < 0.05, OR = 2.621, 95% CI = [1.02–6.74]. Conclusions: MRI characteristics or molecular subtype do not influence breast cancer detectability. Lesions in a post-surgical breast should be assessed with caution. Long-term stability does not rule out malignancy and multimodality evaluation is of added value. Lowering the biopsy threshold for lesions with an interval change in kinetics for a type 2 or 3 curve should be considered. There was a higher rate of interval cancers in BRCA 1 patients attributed to lesions more aggressive in nature.
Long-Term Stability of Gradient Characteristics Warrants Model-Based Correction of Diffusion Weighting Bias
Authors: Pang Yuxi , Malyarenko Dariya I. , Wilmes Lisa J. , Devaraj Ajit , Tan Ek T. , Marinelli Luca , Endt Axel vom , Peeters Johannes , Jacobs Michael A. , Newitt David C. , Chenevert Thomas L.
Published: February 2022

The study aims to test the long-term stability of gradient characteristics for model-based correction of diffusion weighting (DW) bias in an apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) for multisite imaging trials. Single spin echo (SSE) DWI of a long-tube ice-water phantom was acquired quarterly on six MR scanners over two years for individual diffusion gradient channels, along with B0 mapping, as a function of right-left (RL) and superior-inferior (SI) offsets from the isocenter. Additional double spin-echo (DSE) DWI was performed on two systems. The offset dependences of derived ADC were fit to 4th-order polynomials. Chronic shim gradients were measured from spatial derivatives of B0 maps along the tube direction. Gradient nonlinearity (GNL) was modeled using vendor-provided gradient field descriptions. Deviations were quantified by root-mean-square differences (RMSD), normalized to reference ice-water ADC, between the model and reference (RMSDREF), measurement and model (RMSDEXP), and temporal measurement variations (RMSDTMP). Average RMSDREF was 4.9 ± 3.2 (%RL) and –14.8 ± 3.8 (%SI), and threefold larger than RMSDEXP. RMSDTMP was close to measurement errors (~3%). GNL-induced bias across gradient systems varied up to 20%, while deviation from the model accounted at most for 6.5%, and temporal variation for less than 3% of ADC reproducibility error. Higher SSE RMSDEXP = 7.5–11% was reduced to 2.5–4.8% by DSE, consistent with the eddy current origin. Measured chronic shim gradients below 0.1 mT/m had a minor contribution to ADC bias. The demonstrated long-term stability of spatial ADC profiles and consistency with system GNL models justifies retrospective and prospective DW bias correction based on system gradient design models. Residual errors due to eddy currents and shim gradients should be corrected independent of GNL.
SNR-Enhanced, Rapid Electrical Conductivity Mapping Using Echo-Shifted MRI
Authors: Lee Hyunyeol , Park Jaeseok
Published: February 2022

Magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT) permits high-spatial resolution electrical conductivity mapping of biological tissues, and its quantification accuracy hinges on the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the current-induced magnetic flux density (Bz). The purpose of this work was to achieve Bz SNR-enhanced rapid conductivity imaging by developing an echo-shifted steady-state incoherent imaging-based MREIT technique. In the proposed pulse sequence, the free-induction-decay signal is shifted in time over multiple imaging slices, and as a result is exposed to a plurality of injecting current pulses before forming an echo. Thus, the proposed multi-slice echo-shifting strategy allows a high SNR for Bz for a given number of current injections. However, with increasing the time of echo formation, the Bz SNR will also be compromised by T2*-related signal loss. Hence, numerical simulations were performed to evaluate the relationship between the echo-shifting and the Bz SNR, and subsequently to determine the optimal imaging parameters. Experimental studies were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method over conventional spin-echo-based MREIT. Compared with the reference spin-echo MREIT, the proposed echo-shifting-based method improves the efficiency in both data acquisition and current injection while retaining the accuracy of conductivity quantification. The results suggest the feasibility of the proposed MREIT method as a practical means for conductivity mapping.
To What Extent Does the Food Tourism ‘Label’ Enhance Local Food Supply Chains? Experiences from Southeast Wales
Authors: Haven-Tang Claire , Thomas Andrew , Fisher Ron
Published: February 2022

Local food emphasises destination distinctiveness as food production is a locally embedded activity. Proponents of food tourism contend that it increases local food consumption as tourists and tourism and hospitality businesses are attracted to local food supply chains, where they can buy direct from the producer, thus reducing overheads, contributing to local economies and benefitting local communities. Yet the extent to which the food tourism rhetoric enhances the local food supply chain is questionable as evidence suggests that the food tourism ‘label’ creates a silo, which impairs connections with local food supply chains. Seven semi-structured interviews were undertaken in Southeast Wales to explore the food tourism rhetoric, particularly the connection with local food supply chains. Three themes emerged: demand versus supply; information provision; complexity and connectivity in food tourism and local food supply chains. Ultimately, this paper challenges traditional viewpoints around food tourism being a panacea for local food producers.
A Preliminary Assessment of Size-Fractionated Microplastics in Indoor Aerosol—Kuwait’s Baseline
Authors: Uddin Saif , Fowler Scott W. , Habibi Nazima , Sajid Sufiya , Dupont Sam , Behbehani Montaha
Published: February 2022

The omnipresence of microplastic (MP) in various environmental samples, including aerosols, has raised public health concerns; however, there is presently very limited information on MPs in indoor aerosol. This paper presents a unique dataset where smaller MPs have been sampled using a six-stage cascade impactor from indoor environments in Kuwait. The MP concentration in the indoor air varied between 3.2 and 27.1 particles m−3, and the relative MP concentration decreased linearly from the lowest to the highest size fraction. A significant effect of location was observed for the total number of MPs (F2,14 = 5.80, p = 0.02) and the inhalable fraction (F2,14 = 8.38, p = 0.005), while location had no effect on the respirable fraction (F2,14 = 0.54, p = 0.60). A significant effect of the type of air conditioning used was also observed for the total number of MPs (F2,19 = 5.58, p = 0.01) and the inhalable fraction (F2,19 = 6.45, p = 0.008), while location had no effect on the respirable fraction (F2,19 = 1.30, p = 0.30). For the total number of MPs and the inhalable fraction, the concentration was significantly higher for the split unit air-conditioning as compared to the central air-conditioning plants. The presence/absence of carpets had no significant effect on the MP concentrations (total: F1,19 = 4.08, p = 0.06; inhalable: F1,19 = 3.03, p = 0.10; respirable: F1,19 = 4.27, p = 0.05). The shape was dominantly fibers, with few fragments in lower size fractions. These datasets represent the first baseline information for Kuwait, and the smaller MPs in all the samples further underscore the need to develop standardized protocols of MP collection in the ≤2.5 µm fraction that can have more conspicuous health implications.
Are In Vitro Cytotoxicity Assessments of Environmental Samples Useful for Characterizing the Risk of Exposure to Multiple Contaminants at the Workplace? A Systematic Review
Authors: Viegas Carla , Pena Pedro , Gomes Bianca , Dias Marta , Aranha Caetano Liliana , Viegas Susana
Published: February 2022

In some occupational environments risk characterization is challenging or impossible to achieve due to the presence of multiple pollutants and contaminants. Thus, in vitro testing using the most relevant cell lines will provide information concerning health effects due to the co-exposure to multiple stressors. The aim of this review article is to identify studies where the cytotoxicity assessment was performed in environmental samples, as well as to describe the main outputs and challenges regarding risk characterization and management. This study is based on a study of the available information/data on cytotoxicity assessment performed on environmental samples following the PRISMA methodology. Different cell lines were used depending on the environment assessed and exposure routes implicated. The A549 alveolar epithelial cell line was applied in four studies for occupational exposure in the waste sorting industry and for outdoor environments; lymphocytes were used in two studies for occupational and outdoor environments; swine kidney cells were used in three studies performed in the waste industry and hepatocellular/Hep G2 in one study in the waste industry. Cytotoxicity assessments in environmental samples should have a more prominent role due to their contribution for identifying and better understanding the associations between co-exposure to environmental contaminants and adverse human health effects as a prioritization for risk management.
Introduction to the Toxins’ Special Issue on Evaluation of Cytotoxicity and Cytoprotection Effects of Natural Toxins
Authors: Juan-García Ana
Published: February 2022

The lifestyle associated with good nutritional quality of food is well known for its widely recognized health benefits, especially when rich in bioactive compounds [...]
Toxigenic Properties of Yersinia enterocolitica Biotype 1A
Authors: Platt-Samoraj Aleksandra
Published: February 2022

Yersinia (Y.) enterocolitica, an etiological agent of yersiniosis, is a bacterium whose pathogenicity is determined, among other things, by its ability to produce toxins. The aim of this article was to present the most important toxins that are produced by biotype 1A strains of Y. enterocolitica, and to discuss their role in the pathogenesis of yersiniosis. Y. enterocolitica biotype 1A strains are able to synthesize variants of thermostable YST enterotoxin and play a key role in the pathogenesis of yersiniosis. Biotype 1A strains of Y. enterocolitica also produce Y. enterocolitica pore-forming toxins, YaxA and YaxB. These toxins form pores in the cell membrane of host target cells and cause osmotic lysis, which is of particular importance in systemic infections. Insecticidal toxin complex genes have been detected in some clinical biotype 1A strains of Y. enterocolitica. However, their role has not yet been fully elucidated. Strains belonging to biotype 1A have long been considered non-pathogenic. This view is beginning to change due to the emerging knowledge about the toxigenic potential of these bacteria and their ability to overcome the defense barriers of the host organism.
Use of Haemostatic Devices for the Control of Junctional and Abdominal Traumatic Haemorrhage: A Systematic Review
Authors: Humphries Rhiannon , Naumann David N. , Ahmed Zubair
Published: February 2022

Catastrophic haemorrhage accounts for up to 40% of global trauma related mortality and is the leading cause of preventable deaths on the battlefield. Controlling abdominal and junctional haemorrhage is challenging, especially in the pre-hospital setting or ‘under fire’, yet there is no haemostatic agent which satisfies the seven characteristics of an ‘ideal haemostat’. We conducted a systematic search of Embase, Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Web of Science to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of three types of haemostatic devices. Participants included any trauma patient in a pre-hospital setting, perfused human cadavers, or healthy human volunteer simulations. The haemostatic devices reviewed were REBOA, iTClampTM, and four junctional tourniquets: AAJT, CRoC, JETT, and SJT. The SJT had the best user survey performance of the junctional tourniquets, and the four junctional tourniquets had an overall efficacy of 26.6–100% and an application time of 10–203 s. The iTClampTM had an efficacy of 60–100% and an application time of 10–60 s. REBOA had an efficacy of 71–100% and an application time ranging from 5 min to >80 min. In civilian and military trauma patients the use of junctional tourniquets, iTClamp, or REBOA, mortality varied from 0–100%. All of these studies were deemed low to very low in quality, hence the reliability of data presented in each of the studies is called into question. We conclude that despite limited data for these devices, their use in the pre-hospital environment or ‘under fire’ is feasible with the correct training, portable imaging, and patient selection algorithms. However, higher quality studies are required to confirm the true efficacy of these devices.
Global and Regional Prevalence and Outcomes of COVID-19 in People Living with HIV: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Oyelade Tope , Alqahtani Jaber S. , Hjazi Ahmed M. , Li Amy , Kamila Ami , Raya Reynie Purnama
Published: February 2022

Background: The relationship between HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and COVID-19 clinical outcome is uncertain, with conflicting data and hypotheses. We aimed to assess the prevalence of people living with HIV (PLWH) among COVID-19 cases and whether HIV infection affects the risk of severe COVID-19 or related death at the global and continental level. Methods: Electronic databases were systematically searched in July 2021. In total, 966 studies were screened following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Narratives were synthesised and data pooled for the global and continental prevalence of HIV–SARS-CoV-2 coinfection. The relative risks of severity and mortality in HIV-infected COVID-19 patients were computed using a random-effect model. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa score and Egger’s test, and presented as funnel plots. Results: In total, 43 studies were included involving 692,032 COVID-19 cases, of whom 9097 (1.3%) were PLWH. The global prevalence of PLWH among COVID-19 cases was 2% (95% CI = 1.7–2.3%), with the highest prevalence observed in sub-Saharan Africa. The relative risk (RR) of severe COVID-19 in PLWH was significant only in Africa (RR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.05–1.24), while the relative risk of mortality was 1.5 (95% CI = 1.45–2.03) globally. The calculated global risk showed that HIV infection may be linked with increased COVID-19 death. The between-study heterogeneity was significantly high, while the risk of publication bias was not significant. Conclusions: Although there is a low prevalence of PLWH among COVID-19 cases, HIV infection may increase the severity of COVID-19 in Africa and increase the risk of death globally.
Clinical Improvement of Disseminated Acanthamoeba Infection in a Patient with Advanced HIV Using a Non-Miltefosine-Based Treatment Regimen in a Low-Resource Setting
Authors: Reddy Denasha L. , van den Berg Eunice , Grayson Wayne , Mphahlele Matilda , Frean John
Published: February 2022

Disseminated Acanthamoeba species infection is likely an underrecognized and underdiagnosed opportunistic infection in patients with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease in South Africa. It presents a unique clinical challenge in that the diagnosis can be difficult to establish and management options are limited in low-resource settings. To our knowledge, there is a paucity of literature to date on the successful use of combination treatment options for patients in low-resource settings without access to miltefosine. We present a case describing the clinical improvement of disseminated Acanthamoeba infection in a patient with advanced HIV using a non-miltefosine-based treatment regimen. The case serves to highlight that Acanthamoeba sp. infection should be considered as a differential diagnosis for nodular and ulcerative cutaneous lesions in patients with advanced HIV in South Africa, and that although there are alternative options for combination treatment in countries without access to miltefosine, efforts should be made to advocate for better access to miltefosine for the treatment of acanthamoebiasis in South Africa.
Constraints on Barrow Entropy from M87* and S2 Star Observations
Authors: Jusufi Kimet , Azreg-Aïnou Mustapha , Jamil Mubasher , Saridakis Emmanuel N.
Published: February 2022

We use data from M87* central black hole shadow, as well as from the S2 star observations, in order to extract constraints on Barrow entropy. The latter is a modified entropy arising from quantum-gravitational effects on the black hole horizon, quantified by the new parameter Δ. Such a change in entropy leads to a change in temperature, as well as to the properties of the black hole and its shadow. We investigate the photon sphere and the shadow of a black hole with Barrow entropy, and assuming a simple model for infalling and radiating gas we estimate the corresponding intensity. Furthermore, we use the radius in order to extract the real part of the quasinormal modes, and for completeness we investigate the spherical accretion of matter onto the black hole, focusing on isothermal and polytropic test fluids. We extract the allowed parameter region, and by applying a Monte-Carlo-Markov Chains analysis we find that Δ≃0.0036−0.0145+0.0792. Hence, our results place the upper bound Δ≲0.0828 at 1σ, a constraint that is less strong than the Big Bang Nucleosynthesis one, but significantly stronger than the late-time cosmological constraints.
Implications of Quantum Gravity for Dark Matter Searches with Atom Interferometers
Authors: Calmet Xavier , Sherrill Nathaniel
Published: February 2022

In this brief paper, we show that atom interferometer experiments such as MAGIS, AION and AEDGE do not only have the potential to probe very light dark matter models, but will also probe quantum gravity. We show that the linear coupling of a singlet scalar dark matter particle to electrons or photons is already ruled out by our current understanding of quantum gravity coupled to data from torsion pendulum experiments. On the other hand, the quadratic coupling of scalar dark matter to electrons and photons has a large viable parameter space which will be probed by these atom interferometers. Implications for searches of quantum gravity are discussed.
One-Minute Quasi-Periodic Pulsations during an M-Class Solar Flare
Authors: Shi Fanpeng , Li Dong , Ning Zongjun
Published: February 2022

We study the Quasi-Periodic Pulsations (QPPs) of an M4.4 class solar flare, which occurred in active region NOAA 11165 on 8 March 2011. With the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) method, we decompose the flare light curve into fast- and slowly-varying components. The 100 s (0.01 Hz) is selected as the cutoff threshold between the fast- and slowly-varying components. One-minute QPPs are found around flare peak at soft X-ray (SXR) and Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV). Using the data from the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) onboard the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO), the intermittent jets are detected and the interesting fact is that the jets also display one-minute period. The correlationship between the fast-varying components of SXR or EUV emissions and the jets suggests that the QPPs on light curves and periodic jets could come from the same origination, e.g., the periodic magnetic reconnection in this event.
Virus-like Particles as Preventive and Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines
Authors: Tornesello Anna Lucia , Tagliamonte Maria , Buonaguro Franco M. , Tornesello Maria Lina , Buonaguro Luigi
Published: February 2022

Virus-like particles (VLPs) are self-assembled viral protein complexes that mimic the native virus structure without being infectious. VLPs, similarly to wild type viruses, are able to efficiently target and activate dendritic cells (DCs) triggering the B and T cell immunities. Therefore, VLPs hold great promise for the development of effective and affordable vaccines in infectious diseases and cancers. Vaccine formulations based on VLPs, compared to other nanoparticles, have the advantage of incorporating multiple antigens derived from different proteins. Moreover, such antigens can be functionalized by chemical modifications without affecting the structural conformation or the antigenicity. This review summarizes the current status of preventive and therapeutic VLP-based vaccines developed against human oncoviruses as well as cancers.
Leishmania infantum UBC1 in Metacyclic Promastigotes from Phlebotomus perniciosus, a Vaccine Candidate for Zoonotic Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Larraga Jaime , Alcolea Pedro , Alonso Ana , Martins Luis , Moreno Inmaculada , Domínguez Mercedes , Larraga Vicente
Published: February 2022

Leishmania parasites cause outstanding levels of morbidity and mortality in many developing countries in tropical and subtropical regions. Numerous gene expression profiling studies have been performed comparing different Leishmania species’ life-cycles and stage forms in regard to their distinct infective ability. Based on expression patterns, homology to human orthologues, in silico HLA-binding predictions, and annotated functions, we were able to select several vaccine candidates which are currently under study. One of these candidates is the Leishmania infantum ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2 (LiUBC1), whose relative levels, subcellular location, in vitro infectivity in the U937 myeloid human cell model, and protection levels in Syrian hamsters against L. infantum infection were studied herein. LiUBC1 displays a low level of similarity with the mammalian orthologs and relevant structure differences, such as the C-terminal domain, which is absent in the human ortholog. LiUBC1 is present in highly infective promastigotes. Knock-in parasites overexpressing the enzyme increased their infectivity, according to in vitro experiments. Syrian hamsters immunized with the recombinant LiUBC1 protein did not show any parasite burden in the spleen, unlike the infection control group. The IFN-γ transcript levels in splenocytes were significantly higher in the LiUBC1 immunized group. Therefore, LiUBC1 induced partial protection against L. infantum in the Syrian hamster model.
Recombinant BCG Expressing the Subunit 1 of Pertussis Toxin Induces Innate Immune Memory and Confers Protection against Non-Related Pathogens
Authors: Kanno Alex I. , Boraschi Diana , Leite Luciana C. C. , Rodriguez Dunia
Published: February 2022

BCG has shown the ability to induce protection against unrelated pathogens, which likely depends on an immune mechanism known as innate immune memory or trained immunity. In this study, we evaluated the induction of innate memory by a recombinant BCG strain expressing the genetically detoxified S1 subunit of the pertussis toxin (rBCG-S1PT). In vitro pre-exposure of naïve murine macrophages to rBCG-S1PT increased their innate/inflammatory response (IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10) to a subsequent challenge with unrelated pathogens, as compared to pre-exposure to wild-type BCG. Following LPS challenge, mice immunized with rBCG-S1PT produced higher levels of IFN-γ, while the release of other inflammatory cytokines was comparable to that measured after BCG immunization. SCID mice previously immunized with rBCG-S1PT and challenged with pathogenic Candida albicans displayed a similar survival curve as BCG-immunized mice but a lower CFU burden in the kidneys, suggesting an innate memory-dependent control of C. albicans infection. This study highlights the potential of recombinant BCG to increase innate immune memory and, ultimately, non-specific protection, more effectively than wild-type BCG. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the potential of a recombinant BCG strain to strengthen innate immune memory responses.
HPV Vaccination after Primary Treatment of HPV-Related Disease across Different Organ Sites: A Multidisciplinary Comprehensive Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Di Donato Violante , Caruso Giuseppe , Bogani Giorgio , Cavallari Eugenio Nelson , Palaia Gaspare , Perniola Giorgia , Ralli Massimo , Sorrenti Sara , Romeo Umberto , Pernazza Angelina , Pierangeli Alessandra , Clementi Ilaria , Mingoli Andrea , Cassoni Andrea , Tanzi Federica , Cuccu Ilaria , Recine Nadia , Mancino Pasquale , de Vincentiis Marco , Valentini Valentino , d’Ettorre Gabriella , Della Rocca Carlo , Mastroianni Claudio Maria , Antonelli Guido , Polimeni Antonella , Muzii Ludovico , Palaia Innocenza
Published: February 2022

Objective: To assess evidence on the efficacy of adjuvant human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in patients treated for HPV-related disease across different susceptible organ sites. Methods: A systematic review was conducted to identify studies addressing the efficacy of adjuvant HPV vaccination on reducing the risk of recurrence of HPV-related preinvasive diseases. Results were reported as mean differences or pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results: Sixteen studies were identified for the final analysis. Overall, 21,472 patients with cervical dysplasia were included: 4132 (19.2%) received the peri-operative HPV vaccine, while 17,340 (80.8%) underwent surgical treatment alone. The recurrences of CIN 1+ (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.73; p = 0.001), CIN 2+ (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.52; p < 0.0001), and CIN 3 (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.59; p = 0.0009) were lower in the vaccinated than in unvaccinated group. Similarly, adjuvant vaccination reduced the risk of developing anal intraepithelial neoplasia (p = 0.005) and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (p = 0.004). No differences in anogenital warts and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia recurrence rate were observed comparing vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. Conclusions: Adjuvant HPV vaccination is associated with a reduced risk of CIN recurrence, although there are limited data regarding its role in other HPV-related diseases. Further research is warranted to shed more light on the role of HPV vaccination as adjuvant therapy after primary treatment.
Insights on Transmission, Spread, and Possible Endemization of Selected Arboviruses in Israel—Interim Results from Five-Year Surveillance
Authors: Behar Adi , Friedgut Orly , Rotenberg Ditza , Zalesky Olga , Izhaki Omer , Yulzary Amit , Rot Asael , Wolkomirsky Ricardo , Zamir Lior , Hmd Faris , Brenner Jacob
Published: February 2022

Outbreaks of arthropod-borne (arbo) viruses that infect livestock impact the health and welfare of domestic and wild animals are often responsible for significant economic losses in livestock production. Surveillance and early warning systems effectively predict the emergence and re-emergence of arboviral disease. This paper presents the interim results of five years monitoring the exposure of sentinel naïve heifers and Culicoides biting midges (Diptera; Ceratopogonidae) to bovine ephemeral fever virus (BEFV), Simbu serogroup viruses, bluetongue viruses (BTV), and epizootic hemorrhagic disease viruses (EHDV). The data were collected from 11 dairy farms situated within eight different geographical regions in Israel. The results indicate that cattle in Israel are affected by all four viruses from the early summer onward. The investigated viruses exhibit unique site-specific profiles in both ruminants and vectors. The potential of several vectors to transmit these viruses and lack of cross-protection to re-infection with multiple serotypes (BTV and EHDV) or species (Simbu serogroup viruses) highlights some likely mechanisms that may play a role in these viruses’ maintenance cycle and possible endemization in our region.
Assessment of the project cost of the creation of a digital archive in the construction company
Authors:   ", Vasilyeva E. Yu. ,   Budget-and-contracted work in construction",   Journal
Published: February 2022

In modern digital economy the creation of electronic archive is more, than the expansion of electronic document management system in the construction company. Some benefits which are brought by the use of such electronic archives, including expense reduction on document storage, including the project documentation brings to construction company, simplification and reduction in cost of access for employees to documents, their copying, reduction of idle times, stops of projects because ofinaccessibility of information, etc. are revealed in the article. However, it is necessary to consider that the creation of uniform electronic archive of construction company is connected with significant investments, it demands expenses which have to be accurately defined and used for the assessment and justification of the efficiency ofthe project of the electronic archive creation.
TECHNOLOGY OF CREATION OF A2 MILK PRODUCER HERD
Authors: КОВАЛЮК Н.В. , БОНДАРЕНКО М.В. , ШАХНАЗАРОВА Ю.Ю.
Published: February 2022

В результате генотипирования 3224 коров и телок установлено, что частота встречаемости предпочтительного генотипа А2А2 (локус CSN2) составляет, соответственно, в голштинской, айрширской и джерсейской породах — 0,31; 0,25 и 0,67. Частота встречаемости аллеля А2 в голштинской породе — 0,56, в айрширской — 0,51, в джерсейской — 0,82. Для выделения группы с генотипом А2А2 в 100 голов для производства примерно 1 т молока в сутки из стада голштинской породы необходимо протестировать около 330 животных, айрширской — 400, джерсейской — 150. При подборе быков-производителей с генотипом А2А2 для айрширского и голштинского скота необходимо около 6 поколений, джерсейского — 4 поколения, чтобы доля животных с генотипом А1А2 составила около 2%, а особей с генотипом А2А2 — 98%. При этом в любой момент времени можно провести генотипирование и выделить группу коров с генотипом А2А2. Увеличить эффективность отбора животных с генотипом А2А2 можно с использованием спермы, разделенной по полу, и путем выведения (продажи) скота с генотипами А1А1 и А1А2 из стада. Важным аспектом на заключительном этапе создания и при последующем получении молочной продукции А2 является ее анализ на содержание примесей молока А1. В этой связи была разработана система контроля молока и молочной продукции.

As a result of genotyping of 3,224 cows and heifers, it was found that the frequency of occurrence of the preferred genotype A2A2 (locus CSN2) is, respectively, in Holstein, Ayrshire and Jersey breeds — 0.31; 0.25 and 0.67. The frequency of occurrence of the A2 allele in the Holstein breed is 0.56; in the Ayrshire breed — 0.51; in the Jersey breed — 0.82. To isolate a group of animals with the A2A2 genotype of 100 heads from a herd of Holstein breed (for the production of about 1 ton of milk / day), it is necessary to test about 330 heads; or 400 heads of Ayrshire cows; or 150 heads of Jersey cows.When selecting breeding bulls with the A2A2 genotype for Ayrshire and Holstein cattle, about 6 generations are needed, Jersey - 4 generations so that the proportion of animals with the A1A2 genotype is about 2%, and the proportion of animals with the A2A2 genotype is 98%. At the same time, genotyping can be carried out at any time and a group of animals with the A2A2 genotype can be isolated. It is possible to increase the efficiency of selection of animals with the A2A2 genotype by using sperm divided by sex and by removing animals with the A1A1 and A1A2 genotypes from the herd (sale). An important aspect at the final stage of creation and subsequent receipt of A2 dairy products is its control for the content of A1 impurities. In this regard, we have developed a control system for milk and dairy products.
Effect of pH and Concentration on Electrochemical Corrosion Behavior of Aluminum Al-7075 T6 Alloy in NaCl Aqueous Environment
Authors: Raza Syed Abbas , Karim Muhammad Ramzan Abdul , Shehbaz Tauheed , Taimoor Aqeel Ahmad , Ali Rashid , Khan Muhammad Imran
Published: February 2022

In the present study, the corrosion behavior of aluminum Al-7075 tempered (T-6 condition) alloy was evaluated by immersion testing and electrochemical testing in 1.75% and 3.5% NaCl environment at acidic, neutral and basic pH. The data obtained by both immersion tests and electrochemical corrosion tests (potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy tests) present that the corrosion rate of the alloy specimens is minimum for the pH=7 condition of the solution due to the formation of dense and well adherent thin protective oxide layer. Whereas the solutions with acidic and alkaline pH cause shift in the corrosion behavior of aluminum alloy to more active domains aggravated by the constant flux of acidic and alkaline ions (Cl− and OH−) in the media which anodically dissolve the Al matrix in comparison to precipitated intermetallic phases (cathodic in nature) formed due to T6 treatment. Consequently, the pitting behavior of the alloy, as observed by cyclic polarization tests, shifts to more active regions when pH of the solutions changes from neutral to alkaline environment due to localized dissolution of the matrix in alkaline environment that ingress by diffusion through the pores in the oxide film. Microscopic analysis also strengthens the results obtained by immersion corrosion testing and electrochemical corrosion testing as the study examines the corrosion behavior of this alloy under a systematic evaluation in marine environment.
Operative Instandhaltung im Zeitalter der Digitalisierung
Authors: Sade Sercan , Bartsch Thomas , Albers Franziska , Kowalke Dennis
Published: February 2022

Im Rahmen des Forschungsprojektes „Milling-Waterjet“ an der Technischen Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe wurde ein operatives Instandhaltungswerkzeug entwickelt, welches die nach der DIN 31051 beschriebenen Maßnahmen zur Instandhaltung in digitaler Form abbildet. Das Anwendungsobjekt in diesem Fall ist eine Wasserstrahlschneidanlage. Der vorliegende Beitrag beschreibt das digitale Instandhaltungswerkzeug.
Konzept zur Automatisierung der Konfiguration einer virtuellen Inbetriebnahme
Authors: Neuner Tobias , Brela Matthäus
Published: February 2022

Laut VDMA gewinnt die virtuelle Inbetriebnahme als umsetzungsnaher Teil der Digitalisierung im Maschinen- und Anlagenbau in allen Branchenzweigen an Bedeutung. Um die Fehlerfreiheit eines Steuerungsprogramms gewährleisten zu können, gibt es aktuell verschiedene Ansätze zur automatisierten virtuellen Inbetriebnahme. Hierbei werden definierte Testszenarien von einer Test-Applikation autonom, ohne ein Eingreifen des Testpersonals, durchgeführt. Die Herausforderung der automatisierten virtuellen Inbetriebnahme besteht in der manuellen Konfiguration der Testszenarien, die zeit- und kostenintensiv ist. Darüber hinaus ergeben sich durch die manuelle Implementierung zusätzliche Fehlerpotentiale. Diese Arbeit untersucht, wie die Konfiguration der Testszenarien automatisiert werden kann. Dabei sollen die Testszenarien direkt aus dem Steuerungsprogramm oder weiteren Engineering-Werkzeugen, wie Elektrokonstruktionen oder CAD-Pläne, abgeleitet werden. Außerdem werden Normen, wie beispielsweise die EG-Maschinenrichtlinie, berücksichtigt.
Bedarfsorientierte Rekonfiguration einer Co-Simulation für diskrete Fertigungsanlagen
Authors: Härle Christian , Barth Mike , Fay Alexander
Published: February 2022

Simulation nimmt eine wesentliche Rolle im Engineering und Betrieb von Maschinen und Anlagen ein. Der manuelle Aufwand, der mit der Modellierung, Simulation sowie der Wartung und Pflege der Modelle einhergeht, ist jedoch nach wie vor über alle Lebenszyklusphasen hinweg erheblich. So müssen Modelle aus unterschiedlichen Disziplinen, wie beispielsweise der Mechanik, der Thermodynamik oder der Elektrik, zu einem Gesamtmodell gekoppelt werden. Kommt es im weiteren Verlauf zu umbaubedingten Änderungen der Anlage, muss das Modell wiederum einem Update unterzogen werden, was erneuten Aufwand bedeutet. In diesem Beitrag erweitern die Autoren ihr bereits vorgestelltes Konzept eines Assistenzsystems zur automatischen Konfiguration und betriebsparallelen Adaption von Co-Simulationen. Ziel ist es, dass produktionsbedingte Umbaumaßnahmen an der realen Anlage automatisch festgestellt, in die Co-Simulation überführt und in einem bestehenden Beschreibungsmittel der Anlage dokumentiert werden. Das erweiterte Konzept wird anhand von zwei industriellen Anwendungsbeispielen aus unterschiedlichen Bereichen der Fertigungstechnik prototypisch validiert.
Prozessinnovation
Authors: Jung Janis , Hubert Andreas , Doll Konrad , Kröhn Michael , Stadler Jochen
Published: February 2022

Manuelle Montageprozesse sind nach wie vor unverzichtbar in vielen Bereichen der produzierenden Industrie. Vor allem die Qualitätskontrolle, sowie das Einlernen neuer Mitarbeitenden stellen Betriebe durch die voranschreitende Digitalisierung vor neue Herausforderungen. Assistenzsysteme können hier helfen, die Lücke zwischen Anforderungen und Qualifikation zu überbrücken. Wir stellen einen Ansatz zur intelligenten Assistenz vor, welcher auf einer kamerabasierten Erkennung von Arbeitsabläufen mit Hilfe von Methoden des maschinellen Lernens beruht. Das Assistenzsystem erzeugt automatisiert Hilfsmaterial zur Unterstützung der Werkenden. Zusätzlich zur Darstellung der technischen Aspekte, werden psychologische Aspekte, wie Akzeptanz und Motivation untersucht.
Rapid prototyping framework for automation applications based on IO-Link
Authors: Chavez Victor , Cruz Castañon Victtor Fernando , Ruchay Marco , Wollert Jörg
Published: February 2022

The development of protype applications with sensors and actuators in the automation industry requires tools that are independent of manufacturer, and are flexible enough to be modified or extended for any specific requirements. Currently, developing prototypes with industrial sensors and actuators is not straightforward. First of all, the exchange of information depends on the industrial protocol that these devices have. Second, a specific configuration and installation is done based on the hardware that is used, such as automation controllers or industrial gateways. This means that the development for a specific industrial protocol, highly depends on the hardware and the software that vendors provide. In this work we propose a rapid-prototyping framework based on Arduino to solve this problem. For this project we have focused to work with the IO-Link protocol. The framework consists of an Arduino shield that acts as the physical layer, and a software that implements the IO-Link Master protocol. The main advantage of such framework is that an application with industrial devices can be rapid-prototyped with ease as its vendor independent, open-source and can be ported easily to other Arduino compatible boards. In comparison, a typical approach requires proprietary hardware, is not easy to port to another system and is closed-source.