bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drinking Water Consumption Patterns: An Exploration of Risk Perception and Governance in Two First Nations Communities
Authors: Spicer Neal , Parlee Brenda , Chisaakay Molly , Lamalice Doug
Published: August 2020

Many Indigenous communities across Canada suffer from the lack of access to clean drinking water; ensuring individuals and communities have safe water to drink either from their home or from their local environment requires the consideration of multiple factors including individual risk perception. In collaboration with local leaders, semi-structured interviews (n = 99) were conducted over a two-year period in the Dene Tha’ First Nation and Kátł’odeeche First Nation to unpack the issue of risk perception and its meaning to local community members. These local metrics of risk perception including smell, taste, safety, health fears and level of concern were then used to explore patterns in other data on drinking water consumption patterns and bottled water use. The results are consistent with previous research related to water insecurity and indicate that both communities consume more bottled water than the average Canadian. Results also varied by jurisdiction; those in Alberta indicated much higher levels of concern and a greater degree of bottled water consumption.
Open BOK on Software Engineering Educational Context: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Quezada-Sarmiento Pablo Alejandro , Elorriaga Jon A. , Arruarte Ana , Washizaki Hironori
Published: August 2020

In this review, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) on Open Body of Knowledge (BOK) is presented. Moreover, the theoretical base to build a model for knowledge description was created, and it was found that there is a lack of guidelines to describe knowledge description because of the dramatically increasing number of requirements to produce an Open BOK, the difficulty of comparing related BOK contents, and the fact that reusing knowledge description is a very laborious task. In this sense, this review can be considered as a first step in building a model that can be used for describing knowledge description in Open BOK. Finally, in order to improve the educational context, a comparison among BOK, structure, and evolution is conducted.
Systematic Review on Inclusive Education, Sustainability in Engineering: An Analysis with Mixed Methods and Data Mining Techniques
Authors: Sáiz-Manzanares María Consuelo , Gutiérrez-González Sara , Rodríguez Ángel , Alameda Cuenca-Romero Lourdes , Calderón Verónica , Queiruga-Dios Miguel Ángel
Published: August 2020

In the last few years, research in the field of sustainability has experienced a significant increase in interest between sustainability and other areas (inclusive education, active methodologies, and society). Moreover, the use of mixed research methods (quantitative and qualitative) along with the application of data mining techniques, enables the analysis of information and the connection between the different studies. The objectives of this paper were: (1) To establish the results of the research related to the concepts of sustainability, inclusive education, and disability. (2) To study the key concepts that are detected in the articles selected with respect to the concepts of sustainability, inclusive education, disability, and their relations. In order to do so, two studies were carried out (quantitative and qualitative). In the first study, K-means and heat map clustering techniques were applied. In the second study, the technique of text mining was applied. One hundred and thirty-three scientific papers were studied, of which 54 fulfilled all the inclusion criteria. Three clusters were found in the first study; cluster 1 included the categories: inclusive society, educational innovation, and active methodologies. Cluster 2 included active methodologies and society and economy and cluster 3 included inclusive society and society and economy. In the second study, the highest Krippendorff’s Alpha coefficient were found in articles that linked sustainability with social transformation stemming from a change in education by means of the use of active teaching methods and technological resources. The research moves towards the development of competencies in sustainability at all stages of the educational system, and in all areas of knowledge.
Investigations Regarding the Linguistic Register Used by Managers to Convey to Stakeholders a Positive View of Their Company, in the Context of the Business Sustainability Desideratum
Authors: Bostan Ionel , Chersan Ionela-Corina , Danileț Magdalena , Ifrim Mihaela , Chirilă Viorica
Published: August 2020

This paper is based on an analysis of the content of management reports (annual, integrated), on the activity of European multinational companies (listed on the Stock Exchange). For this purpose, we conducted a content analysis of company management letters which open integrated and annual reports of European multinational listed companies. The data comprised a corpus of letters and statements of chairmen and/or executive directors in five environmentally sensitive industries that were analysed using Wmatrix4 software. The identified key words, the preferred semantic domains and the tone of emotional register from the letters of managers provide significant evidence on what kind of information they contain and how these managers want to share it with their stakeholders. Our results show that managers are interested in the optimistic presentation of the mission, results and future plans of their companies. We found that words such as like, confidence, proud or trust are common on the emotional map of these letters, but the preferences in use are unequally distributed among the five analysed sectors. We also report that the word “sustainability” is among the key terms found in letters and statements of managers. Finally, for each of the five corpuses, our study proved that, beyond common issues, different economic domains prefer different topics, using a significantly different lexical register both in terms of relative frequency of common key-words and diversity of words within the same semantic domain. The study systematizes a set of key-words and semantic domains used to convey positive emotions, avoiding those with negative connotations, in order to provide an image of a company that acts in a sustainable manner. This could be successfully used by corporate communicators of a wide range of companies who want to comply with the best practices of integrated reporting.
Econometric Analyses of Adoption and Household-Level Impacts of Improved Rice Varieties in the Uplands of Yunnan, China
Authors: Wang Huaiyu , Pandey Sushil , Feng Lu
Published: August 2020

Higher-yielding rice varieties adapted to the upland conditions of Yunnan were developed and disseminated during the late 1990s. Using cross-sectional farm-level data of 448 households collected from five prefectures in Southern Yunnan, this paper carries out an econometric analysis of the determinants of variations in the adoption of improved varieties among households and assesses the impact of adoption on rice income and total household income. The two major determinants of adoption were found to be the government programs for extension of improved upland rice varieties and for terracing of sloping fields. The presence of government programs for extension and for terracing contributed to increased adoption of improved varieties. Household-specific factors such as land and labor endowments were less important as these variables had a statistically insignificant impact on adoption. The adoption of improved rice varieties increased both rice income and the average household income. About half of the household income difference observed between the full adopters and non-adopters of improved rice varieties with comparable household characteristics can be attributed directly to the adoption. The results imply that increased investments in promoting improved rice varieties and terracing will generate additional income growth in the uplands of Yunnan.
What Motivates Users to Keep Using Social Mobile Payments?
Authors: Nan Dongyan , Kim Yerin , Park Min Hyung , Kim Jang Hyun
Published: August 2020

Due to the rapid diffusion of social mobile payment (SMP), the current research explores the post-adoption behavior of SMP users. It proposes a research model to determine the core predictors of users’ continuance intentions to use SMPs. Through the analysis of survey data from South Korea, it indicates that satisfaction strongly and positively affects users’ continuance intentions. Moreover, satisfaction is influenced by perceived usefulness (PU), security, and enjoyment. Interestingly, although perceived ease of use (PEU) does not directly affect satisfaction, it can indirectly influence satisfaction via users’ PU and perceived enjoyment. Furthermore, perceived ubiquity has strong effects on users’ PU and PEU. The study also discusses meaningful implications, and provides suggestions for future studies.
Monolayer Gas Adsorption on Graphene-Based Materials: Surface Density of Adsorption Sites and Adsorption Capacity
Authors: Jakšić Olga , Spasenović Marko , Jakšić Zoran , Vasiljević-Radović Dana
Published: August 2020

Surface density of adsorption sites on an adsorbent (including affinity-based sensors) is one of the basic input parameters in modeling of process kinetics in adsorption based devices. Yet, there is no simple expression suitable for fast calculations in current multiscale models. The published experimental data are often application-specific and related to the equilibrium surface density of adsorbate molecules. Based on the known density of adsorbed gas molecules and the surface coverage, both of these in equilibrium, we obtained an equation for the surface density of adsorption sites. We applied our analysis to the case of pristine graphene and thus estimated molecular dynamics of adsorption on it. The monolayer coverage was determined for various pressures and temperatures. The results are verified by comparison with literature data. The results may be applicable to modeling of the surface density of adsorption sites for gas adsorption on other homogeneous crystallographic surfaces. In addition to it, the obtained analytical expressions are suitable for training artificial neural networks determining the surface density of adsorption sites on a graphene surface based on the known binding energy, temperature, mass of adsorbate molecules and their affinity towards graphene. The latter is of interest for multiscale modelling.
Evolution of the Design of CH4 Adsorbents
Authors: Mahmoud Eyas
Published: August 2020

In this review, the evolution of paradigm shifts in CH4 adsorbent design are discussed. The criteria used as characteristic of paradigms are first reports, systematic findings, and reports of record CH4 storage or deliverable capacity. Various paradigms were used such as the systematic design of micropore affinity and pore size, functionalization, structure optimization, high throughput in silico screening, advanced material property design which includes flexibility, intrinsic heat management, mesoporosity and ultraporosity, and process condition optimization. Here, the literature is reviewed to elucidate how the approach to CH4 adsorbent design has progressed and provide strategies that could be implemented in the future.
On a Semigroup Problem II
Authors: Nitica Viorel , Torok Andrew
Published: August 2020

We consider the following semigroup problem: is the closure of a semigroup S in a topological vector space X a group when S does not lie on “one side” of any closed hyperplane of X? Whereas for finite dimensional spaces, the answer is positive, we give a new example of infinite dimensional spaces where the answer is negative.
Evaluation and Balance of Cognitive Friction: Evaluation of Product Target Image Form Combining Entropy and Game Theory
Authors: Qiu Kai , Su Jianning , Zhang Xinxin , Yang Wenjin
Published: August 2020

With the great progress of product development technology, product forms have been greatly enriched by cognitive differences; users and designers have formed a “cognitive friction” phenomenon in the product evaluation process, which results in designers being unable to grasp user emotions accurately and risks of product development failure. This paper aims to balance the cognitive differences between cognitive subjects (users and designers) and evaluates the product image form. First, image entropy is used to evaluate and extract the weight of the product target image. Second, fuzzy Theil entropy is used to evaluate the cognitive friction between cognitive subjects, and its existence and size are visually presented. Then, a cognitive friction balance model is built by combining game theory, the comprehensive evaluation weight between cognitive subjects is obtained, and the product image form is ranked and optimized. Finally, all the research steps are described in the form of a household hair dryer. The results show that fuzzy Theil entropy and game theory have significant advantages in the evaluation and balance of cognitive friction in product design. Thus, the cognitive friction evaluation and balance model constructed from the fuzzy Theil entropy and game theory do not only enable different cognitive subjects to achieve cognitive symmetry, but also screen out product forms that meet the cognitive needs of users. This finding provides the theoretical basis and practical significance for the establishment of a closed-loop model in cognitive friction balance and the reduction of cognitive differences between cognitive subjects in the entire process of product design. It also introduces new ways of thinking and methods for cognitive science research.
A Hybrid Fuzzy Profiling-Nonnegative Latent Factor Model Considering Consumer Preference at Different Levels
Authors: Li Yu , Wang Jianqiang , Wang Jing
Published: August 2020

The implicit feedback information associated with actual behavior can symmetrically reflect consumer preference, which is valuable and deserves a deep investigation. Considering the inherent uncertainty and fuzziness of implicit data, the question of how to depict consumer preference in such data is always a critical and difficult issue. In this paper, a fuzzy profiling-nonnegative latent factor (FP-NLF) model is proposed to address this problem. First, a fuzzy profiling (FP) procedure is designed for characterization of consumer preference at various levels, where the fuzzy set is introduced to manage the uncertainty and fuzziness of implicit data. Two series of strategies are provided to determine the comprehensive preference for different scenarios and commercial intentions. Subsequently, a nonnegative latent factor (NLF) model is adopted to make predictions in the case of notably sparse data. Finally, a higher quality recommendation is ultimately produced for which only the products satisfying given preference level are recommended. In addition, a case study with real data is conducted for a detailed demonstration, and the results reveal the feasibility and superiority of our proposal through comparative analysis. Finally, the sensitivity analysis explores the influences of changing weights of strategy, which can provide guidance for developing purposeful strategies to better serve consumers.
Feature Importances: A Tool to Explain Radio Propagation and Reduce Model Complexity
Authors: Sotiroudis Sotirios P. , Goudos Sotirios K. , Siakavara Katherine
Published: August 2020

Machine learning models have been widely deployed to tackle the problem of radio propagation. In addition to helping in the estimation of path loss, they can also be used to better understand the details of various propagation scenarios. Our current work exploits the inherent ranking of feature importances provided by XGBoost and Random Forest as a means of indicating the contribution of the underlying propagation mechanisms. A comparison between two different transmitter antenna heights, revealing the associated propagation profiles, is made. Feature selection is then implemented, leading to models with reduced complexity, and consequently reduced training and response times, based on the previously calculated importances.
Environmental Methamphetamine Exposures and Health Effects in 25 Case Studies
Authors: Wright Jackie , Kenneally Michaela , Ross Kirstin , Walker Stewart
Published: August 2020

The clandestine manufacture and use of methamphetamine can result in contamination of residential properties. It is understood that this contamination remains in homes for a significant period, however there are a lack of data available to understand the health effects of exposure to environmental methamphetamine contamination (third-hand exposure). Our study collected information from 63 individuals in 25 separate case studies where the subjects had unwittingly suffered third-hand exposure to methamphetamine from former manufacture, use, or both. Data included environmental contamination data, information on subjects’ health effects, and evidence of exposure using hair analysis. This study identified a range of health effects that occur from residing in these properties, including behavioural effects or issues, sleep issues, respiratory effects, skin and eye effects, and headaches. Methamphetamine was detected in hair samples from some individuals, including children. The exposures and concomitant reported health effects covered a wide range of environmental methamphetamine levels in the properties, including low levels close to the current Australian guideline of 0.5 µg methamphetamine/100 cm2. There were no discernible differences between health effects from living in properties contaminated from former manufacture or use. This study demonstrates that residing in these properties can represent a serious public health risk.
Effect of Stored Humidity and Initial Moisture Content on the Qualities and Mycotoxin Levels of Maize Germ and Its Processing Products
Authors: Wen Yun-qi , Xu Li-li , Xue Chang-hu , Jiang Xiao-ming
Published: August 2020

With high fat and protein content, maize germ is easily infected with fungus and mycotoxins during its storage. The qualities and safety of germ and its processing products may be affected by the storage. However, studies on the effect of storage on quality and polluted mycotoxin level of maize germ are limited. In this study, maize germ was stored with different initial moisture contents (5.03, 9.07, 11.82 and 17.97%) or at different relative humidity (75, 85 and 95%) for 30 days. The quality indices of germ (moisture content and crude fat content) and their produced germ oils (color, acid value and peroxide value) as well as the zearalenone (ZEN) and deoxynivalenol (DON) levels of germ, oils and meals were analyzed. Results showed that maize germ with high initial moisture contents (11.82, 17.97%) or kept at high humidity (95%) became badly moldy at the end of storage. Meanwhile, the qualities of these germ and oils showed great changes. However, the ZEN and DON contents of this maize germ, oils and meals stayed at similar levels (p < 0.05). Therefore, the storage could produce influence on the qualities of germ and oils, but showed limited effect on the DON and ZEN levels of germ and their processing products. According to this study, the storage condition of germ with no more than 9% moisture content and no higher than 75% humidity was recommended. This study would be benefit for the control of germ qualities and safety during its storage.
Staphylococcus aureus Exotoxins and Their Detection in the Dairy Industry and Mastitis
Authors: G. Abril Ana , G. Villa Tomás , Barros-Velázquez Jorge , Cañas Benito , Sánchez-Pérez Angeles , Calo-Mata Pilar , Carrera Mónica
Published: August 2020

Staphylococcus aureus constitutes a major food-borne pathogen, as well as one of the main causative agents of mastitis in dairy ruminants. This pathogen can produce a variety of extracellular toxins; these include the shock syndrome toxin 1 (TSST-1), exfoliative toxins, staphylococcal enterotoxins (SE), hemolysins, and leukocidins. S. aureus expresses many virulence proteins, involved in evading the host defenses, hence facilitating microbial colonization of the mammary glands of the animals. In addition, S. aureus exotoxins play a role in the development of both skin infections and mastitis. Indeed, if these toxins remain in dairy products for human consumption, they can cause staphylococcal food poisoning (SFP) outbreaks. As a result, there is a need for procedures to identify the presence of exotoxins in human food, and the methods used must be fast, sensitive, reliable, and accurate. It is also essential to determine the best medical therapy for human patients suffering from S. aureus infections, as well as establishing the relevant veterinary treatment for infected ruminants, to avoid economic losses in the dairy industry. This review summarizes the role of S. aureus toxins in the development of mastitis in ruminants, their negative effects in the food and dairy industries, and the different methods used for the identification of these toxins in food destined for human consumption.
Betulinic Acid Attenuates Oxidative Stress in the Thymus Induced by Acute Exposure to T-2 Toxin via Regulation of the MAPK/Nrf2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhu Lijuan , Yi Xianglian , Ma Chaoyang , Luo Chenxi , Kong Li , Lin Xing , Gao Xinyu , Yuan Zhihang , Wen Lixin , Li Rongfang , Wu Jing , Yi Jine
Published: August 2020

T-2 toxin, the most toxic of the trichothecenes, is widely found in grains and feeds, and its intake poses serious risks to the health of humans and animals. An important cytotoxicity mechanism of T-2 toxin is the production of excess free radicals, which in turn leads to oxidative stress. Betulinic acid (BA) has many biological activities, including antioxidant activity, which is a plant-derived pentacyclic triterpenoid. The protective effects and mechanisms of BA in blocking oxidative stress caused by acute exposure to T-2 toxin in the thymus of mice was studied. BA pretreatment reduced ROS production, decreased the MDA content, and increased the content of IgG in serum and the levels of SOD and GSH in the thymus. BA pretreatment also reduced the degree of congestion observed in histopathological tissue sections of the thymus induced by T-2 toxin. Besides, BA downregulated the phosphorylation of the p38, JNK, and ERK proteins, while it upregulated the expression of the Nrf2 and HO-1 proteins in thymus tissues. The results indicated that BA could protect the thymus against the oxidative damage challenged by T-2 toxin by activating Nrf2 and suppressing the MAPK signaling pathway.
An Integrated Study of Toxocara Infection in Honduran Children: Human Seroepidemiology and Environmental Contamination in a Coastal Community
Authors: Hernández Sergio A. , Gabrie José A. , Rodríguez Carol Anahelka , Matamoros Gabriela , Rueda María Mercedes , Canales Maritza , Mergl Ronald , Sanchez Ana
Published: August 2020

(1) Background: Infections caused by Toxocara canis and T. cati are considered zoonoses of global importance. Reports from North and South America indicate that human infections are widespread in both continents, but epidemiological information from Central America is still lacking. (2) Methodology: In the present cross-sectional multi-year study, we aimed to undertake the first seroepidemiological and environmental study on toxocariasis in Honduras. This included the determination of seroprevalence of anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies in children using a Toxocara spp. purified excretory-secretory antigens enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (TES-ELISA) and a confirmatory Western blot. As well, through statistical analysis including logistic regression we aimed at identifying relevant biological and epidemiological factors associated with seropositivity. The study also entailed detection of parasites’ eggs in the soil samples both through Sheather’s concentration method and a nested polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. (3) Results: The study was undertaken in a coastal community of Honduras in 2 different years, 2015 and 2017. A total of 88 healthy schoolchildren completed the study, with participation of 79% (73/92) and 65% (46/71) of the student body in 2015 and 2017, respectively. Thirty-one children participated in both years (i.e., dual participants). Through both serological tests, seropositivity was confirmed in 88.6% (78/88) of children. Due to the high number of seropositives, logistic regression analysis was not possible for most socio-economic and epidemiological variables. Eosinophilia, on the other hand, was associated with seropositivity, independently of other intestinal helminthic infections. Continued seropositivity was observed in most of the dual participants, while seroconversion was determined in 8 of these children. Microscopic examination of soil samples did not yield any positive results. Through nested PCR-RFLP, 3 of the 50 samples (6%) were positive for Toxocara spp.; two were identified as T. canis and one as T. cati. (4) Conclusions: This work documents for the first time, high levels of human exposure to Toxocara spp. in Honduras. These findings, along with the country’s favorable epidemiological conditions for this zoonosis, emphasize the need for more research to determine whether this infection is underreported in the country.
Varying Newton Constant and Black Hole to White Hole Quantum Tunneling
Authors: Volovik Grigory
Published: August 2020

The thermodynamics of black holes is discussed for the case, when the Newton constant G is not a constant, but it is the thermodynamic variable. This gives for the first law of the Schwarzschild black hole thermodynamics: dSBH=−AdK+dMTBH, where the gravitational coupling K=1/4G, M is the black hole mass, A is the area of horizon, and TBH is Hawking temperature. From this first law, it follows that the dimensionless quantity M2/K is the adiabatic invariant, which, in principle, can be quantized if to follow the Bekenstein conjecture. From the Euclidean action for the black hole it follows that K and A serve as dynamically conjugate variables. Using the Painleve–Gullstrand metric, which in condensed matter is known as acoustic metric, we calculate the quantum tunneling from the black hole to the white hole. The obtained tunneling exponent suggests that the temperature and entropy of the white hole are negative.
Neutrinos: Majorana or Dirac?
Authors: Bilenky Samoil M.
Published: August 2020

Are neutrinos with definite masses Majorana or Dirac particles? This is one of the most fundamental problems of modern neutrino physics. The solution to this problem could be crucial for understanding the origin of small neutrino masses. We review here basic arguments in favor of the Majorana nature of massive neutrinos. The phenomenological theory of 0νββ-decay is briefly discussed and recent experimental data and sensitivity of future experiments are presented.
Structures and Functions of Viral 5′ Non-Coding Genomic RNA Domain-I in Group-B Enterovirus Infections
Authors: Glenet Marie , Heng Laetitia , Callon Domitille , Lebreil Anne-Laure , Gretteau Paul-Antoine , Nguyen Yohan , Berri Fatma , Andreoletti Laurent
Published: August 2020

Group-B enteroviruses (EV-B) are ubiquitous naked single-stranded positive RNA viral pathogens that are responsible for common acute or persistent human infections. Their genome is composed in the 5′ end by a non-coding region, which is crucial for the initiation of the viral replication and translation processes. RNA domain-I secondary structures can interact with viral or cellular proteins to form viral ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes regulating viral genomic replication, whereas RNA domains-II to -VII (internal ribosome entry site, IRES) are known to interact with cellular ribosomal subunits to initiate the viral translation process. Natural 5′ terminally deleted viral forms lacking some genomic RNA domain-I secondary structures have been described in EV-B induced murine or human infections. Recent in vitro studies have evidenced that the loss of some viral RNP complexes in the RNA domain-I can modulate the viral replication and infectivity levels in EV-B infections. Moreover, the disruption of secondary structures of RNA domain-I could impair viral RNA sensing by RIG-I (Retinoic acid inducible gene I) or MDA5 (melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5) receptors, a way to overcome antiviral innate immune response. Overall, natural 5′ terminally deleted viral genomes resulting in the loss of various structures in the RNA domain-I could be major key players of host–cell interactions driving the development of acute or persistent EV-B infections.
Employing Molecular Phylodynamic Methods to Identify and Forecast HIV Transmission Clusters in Public Health Settings: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Rich Shannan N. , Richards Veronica L. , Mavian Carla N. , Switzer William M. , Rife Magalis Brittany , Poschman Karalee , Geary Shana , Broadway Steven E. , Bennett Spencer B. , Blanton Jason , Leitner Thomas , Boatwright J. Lucas , Stetten Nichole E. , Cook Robert L. , Spencer Emma C. , Salemi Marco , Prosperi Mattia
Published: August 2020

Molecular HIV surveillance is a promising public health strategy for curbing the HIV epidemic. Clustering technologies used by health departments to date are limited in their ability to infer/forecast cluster growth trajectories. Resolution of the spatiotemporal dynamics of clusters, through phylodynamic and phylogeographic modelling, is one potential strategy to develop a forecasting tool; however, the projected utility of this approach needs assessment. Prior to incorporating novel phylodynamic-based molecular surveillance tools, we sought to identify possible issues related to their feasibility, acceptability, interpretation, and utility. Qualitative data were collected via focus groups among field experts (n = 17, 52.9% female) using semi-structured, open-ended questions. Data were coded using an iterative process, first through the development of provisional themes and subthemes, followed by independent line-by-line coding by two coders. Most participants routinely used molecular methods for HIV surveillance. All agreed that linking molecular sequences to epidemiological data is important for improving HIV surveillance. We found that, in addition to methodological challenges, a variety of implementation barriers are expected in relation to the uptake of phylodynamic methods for HIV surveillance. The participants identified several opportunities to enhance current methods, as well as increase the usability and utility of promising works-in-progress.
Impact of Viral Lysis on the Composition of Bacterial Communities and Dissolved Organic Matter in Deep-Sea Sediments
Authors: Heinrichs Mara E. , Tebbe Dennis A. , Wemheuer Bernd , Niggemann Jutta , Engelen Bert
Published: August 2020

Viral lysis is a main mortality factor for bacteria in deep-sea sediments, leading to changing microbial community structures and the release of cellular components to the environment. Nature and fate of these compounds and the role of viruses for microbial diversity is largely unknown. We investigated the effect of viruses on the composition of bacterial communities and the pool of dissolved organic matter (DOM) by setting up virus-induction experiments using mitomycin C with sediments from the seafloor of the Bering Sea. At the sediment surface, no substantial prophage induction was detected, while incubations from 20 cm below seafloor showed a doubling of the virus-to-cell ratio. Ultra-high resolution mass spectrometry revealed an imprint of cell lysis on the molecular composition of DOM, showing an increase of molecular formulas typical for common biomolecules. More than 50% of these compounds were removed or transformed during incubation. The remaining material potentially contributed to the pool of refractory DOM. Next generation sequencing of the bacterial communities from the induction experiment showed a stable composition over time. In contrast, in the non-treated controls the abundance of dominant taxa (e.g., Gammaproteobacteria) increased at the expense of less abundant phyla. Thus, we conclude that viral lysis was an important driver in sustaining bacterial diversity, consistent with the “killing the winner” model.
N-glycosylation in the Pre-Membrane Protein Is Essential for the Zika Virus Life Cycle
Authors: Gwon Yong-Dae , Zusinaite Eva , Merits Andres , Överby Anna K. , Evander Magnus
Published: August 2020

Asparagine (N)-linked protein glycosylation plays an important role in protein synthesis and modification. Two Zika virus (ZIKV) structural proteins, the pre-membrane (prM) and envelope (E) protein are N-glycosylated. The prM protein of all ZIKV strains contains a single N-linked glycosylation site, while not all strains contain an N-linked site in the E protein. Our aim was to examine the impact of prM and E N-linked glycosylation on ZIKV infectivity and cell trafficking. Using a ZIKV infectious clone, we found that when the N-glycan sites were removed, the prM- and the prM/E-double mutants did not produce an infectious virus in the supernatant. Further, by using ZIKV prME constructs, we found that N-glycosylation was necessary for effective secretion of ZIKV virions. The absence of the N-glycan on prM or E caused protein aggregation in the rough endoplasmatic reticulum (ER) compartment. The aggregation was more pronounced for the prM-mutation, and the mutant virus lost the ER-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC) localization. In addition, lack of the N-glycan on prM induced nuclear translocation of CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), an ER stress marker. To conclude, we show that the prM N-glycan is essential for the ZIKV infectious cycle, and plays an important role in viral protein trafficking, protein folding, and virion assembly.
The Association between Influenza and Pneumococcal Vaccinations and SARS-Cov-2 Infection: Data from the EPICOVID19 Web-Based Survey
Authors: Noale Marianna , Trevisan Caterina , Maggi Stefania , Antonelli Incalzi Raffaele , Pedone Claudio , Di Bari Mauro , Adorni Fulvio , Jesuthasan Nithiya , Sojic Aleksandra , Galli Massimo , Giacomelli Andrea , Molinaro Sabrina , Bianchi Fabrizio , Mastroianni Claudio , Prinelli Federica ,   on Group
Published: August 2020

The present study aims to evaluate whether influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations are associated with positive nasopharyngeal swab (NPS) testing to detect SARS-CoV-2. Data from the Italian cross-sectional web-based survey (EPICOVID19), based on a self-selection sample of individuals aged ≥18, were considered. The probability of a positive SARS-CoV-2 NPS test result as a function of influenza or anti-pneumococcal vaccination was evaluated using multivariable logistic regression, stratifying analysis by age (<65 years, ≥65 years). From April 2020, 170,731 individuals aged <65 years and 28,097 ≥65 years filled out the EPICOVID19 questionnaire. Influenza and anti-pneumococcal vaccinations were received, respectively, by 16% and 2% of those <65 years, and by 53% and 13% of those ≥65 years. SARS-CoV-2 NPS testing was reported by 6680 participants. Anti-pneumococcal and influenza vaccinations were associated with a decreased probability of a SARS-CoV-2 NPS positive test in the younger participants (OR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.41–0.91; OR = 0.85, 95%CI 0.74–0.98; respectively). A significantly lower probability of a positive test result was detected in the individuals ≥65 years who received anti-pneumococcal vaccination (OR = 0.56, 95%CI 0.33–0.95). These results need to be confirmed by further investigations, but they are relevant given the probable coexistence of influenza, bacterial infections, and COVID-19 over the coming autumn–winter season.
Molecular and Serological Footprints of Mycobacterium avium Subspecies Infections in Zoo Animals
Authors: Roller Marco , Hansen Sören , Böhlken-Fascher Susanne , Knauf-Witzens Tobias , Czerny Claus-Peter , Goethe Ralph , Abd El Wahed Ahmed
Published: August 2020

Background: Mycobacteria of the Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) pose a significant risk to zoological collections. Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is a member of MAC and the causative agent of Johne’s disease. Despite many reports in animals kept in zoological gardens, systemic surveillance has rarely been reported. Methods: In this study, archived serum samples collected from animal species at the Wilhelma Zoological and Botanical Gardens in Stuttgart, Germany, were screened for the presence of antibodies against MAC and MAP. In addition, molecular investigations were performed on necropsy, fecal, and environmental samples. Results: In total, 30/381 serum samples of various mammalian species were positive for MAC antibodies in ELISA, while one sample of a reticulated giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata) was positive in MAP-specific ELISA. Samples from many species were positive in pan-Mycobacterium real-time PCR (40/43 fecal samples, 27/43 environmental samples, and 31/90 necropsy samples). Surprisingly, no sample was positive in the MAP-specific molecular assays. However, two environmental samples from primate enclosures were positive in Mycobacterium avium subspecies hominissuis (MAH)-specific real-time PCR. Conclusions: The results reveal serological indications of MAC infections in the zoological collection. However, the presence of a MAP-contaminated environment by a high-shedding individual animal or MAP-infected population is unlikely.
A Comparison of Time-Frequency Methods for Real-Time Application to High-Rate Dynamic Systems
Authors: Yan Jin , Laflamme Simon , Singh Premjeet , Sadhu Ayan , Dodson Jacob
Published: August 2020

High-rate dynamic systems are defined as engineering systems experiencing dynamic events of typical amplitudes higher than 100 gn for a duration of less than 100 ms. The implementation of feedback decision mechanisms in high-rate systems could improve their operations and safety, and even be critical to their deployment. However, these systems are characterized by large uncertainties, high non-stationarities, and unmodeled dynamics, and it follows that the design of real-time state-estimators for such purpose is difficult. In this paper, we compare the promise of five time-frequency representation (TFR) methods at conducting real-time state estimation for high-rate systems, with the objective of providing a path to designing implementable algorithms. In particular, we examine the performance of the short-time Fourier transform (STFT), wavelet transformation (WT), Wigner–Ville distribution (WVD), synchrosqueezed transform (SST), and multi-synchrosqueezed transform (MSST) methods. This study is conducted using experimental data from the DROPBEAR (Dynamic Reproduction of Projectiles in Ballistic Environments for Advanced Research) testbed, consisting of a rapidly moving cart on a cantilever beam that acts as a moving boundary condition. The capability of each method at extracting the beam’s fundamental frequency is evaluated in terms of precision, spectral energy concentration, computation speed, and convergence speed. It is found that both the STFT and WT methods are promising methods due to their fast computation speed, with the WT showing particular promise due to its faster convergence, but at the cost of lower precision on the estimation depending on circumstances.
The Role of Environmental Background Processes in Determining Groundwater Level Variability—An Investigation of a Record Flood Event Using Dynamic Factor Analysis
Authors: Trásy Balázs , Magyar Norbert , Havril Tímea , Kovács József , Garamhegyi Tamás
Published: August 2020

Since groundwater is a major source of water for drinking and for industrial and irrigation uses, the identification of the environmental processes determining groundwater level fluctuation is potentially a matter of great consequence, especially in light of the fact that the frequency of extreme climate events may be expected to increase, causing changes in groundwater recharge systems. In the recent study, data measured at a frequency of one hour were collected from the Szigetköz, an inland delta of the Danube. These were then used to determine the presence, or not, and magnitude of any hidden environmental background factors that may be causing groundwater level fluctuations. Through the application of dynamic factor analysis, it was revealed that changes in groundwater level are mainly determined by (i) the water level of neighboring rivers and (ii) evapotranspiration. The intensity of these factors may also be estimated spatially. If the background factors determined by dynamic factor analysis do indeed figure in the linear model as variables, then the time series of groundwater levels can be said to have been accurately estimated with the use of linear regression. The accuracy of the estimate is indicated by the fact that adjusted coefficient of determination exceeds 0.9 in 80% of the wells. The results, via an enhanced understanding of the reasons for changes in the fluctuation of groundwater, could assist in the development of sustainable water management and irrigation strategies and the preparation for varying potential climate change scenarios.
Spatial and Temporal Patterns of δ13C and δ15N of Suspended Particulate Organic Matter in Maryland Coastal Bays, USA
Authors: Edje Blessing O. , Ishaque Ali B. , Chigbu Paulinus
Published: August 2020

The suspended particulate organic matter (SPOM) in transitional waters such as the Maryland Coastal Bays (MCBs) is derived from allochthonous and autochthonous sources. Little is known, however, about the contribution of terrestrially derived organic matter to SPOM in the MCBs. The sources of SPOM in the MCBs were evaluated using stable isotope ratios of nitrogen (δ15N) and carbon (δ13C), and C/N molar ratios. The values of SPOM δ15N, δ13C and C/N ratios from samples collected seasonally (July 2014 to October 2017) at 13 sites ranged from −0.58 to 10.51‰, −26.85 to −20.33‰, and 1.67 to 11.36, respectively, indicating a mixture of terrestrial SPOM transported by tributaries, marine organic matter from phytoplankton, and sewage. SPOM δ13C levels less than −24‰, suggesting the dominance of terrestrially derived carbon, occurred mainly at sites close to the mouths of tributaries, and were less depleted at sites near the ocean. The mean value of SPOM δ13C was higher in October 2014 (−22.76‰) than in October 2015 (−24.65‰) and 2016 (−24.57‰) likely due to differences in river discharge. Much lower values (<4‰) of δ15N observed in February 2016 coincided with a high freshwater inflow that accompanied a major storm, indicating a strong influence of untreated sewage. Results from a two end-member mixing model suggest that on average, the SPOM in the MCBs is composed of 44% terrestrial materials with the highest percent contributions in October 2015 and 2016 (61%), and lowest (28%) in July 2015. The contribution of terrestrial materials to the SPOM was highest (58%) near the mouth of St. Martin River and lowest (25%) near the Ocean City inlet. SPOM composition and distribution in MCBs are, therefore, a function of land use, freshwater inflow, and water circulation that influence in situ phytoplankton production, and the transport and distribution of terrestrially derived materials.
A Holistic Modelling Approach for the Estimation of Return Levels of Peak Flows in Bavaria
Authors: Willkofer Florian , Wood Raul R. , von Trentini Fabian , Weismüller Jens , Poschlod Benjamin , Ludwig Ralf
Published: August 2020

This study introduces a holistic approach for the hydrological modelling of peak flows for the major Bavarian river basins, referred to as Hydrological Bavaria. This approach, intended to develop a robust modelling framework to support water resources management under climate change conditions, comprises a regionalized parameterization of the water balance simulation model (WaSiM) for 98 catchments in high temporal (3 h) and spatial (500 m) resolution using spatially coherent information and an automatized calibration (dynamically dimensioned search–simulated annealing, DDS-SA) for storage components. The performance of the model was examined using common metrics (Nash & Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), Kling-Gupta Efficiency (KGE)). The simulations provided the means for the calculation of a level of trust (LOT) by comparing observed and simulated high flows with a five, ten, and 20-year return period. These estimates were derived by the Generalized Pareto Distribution (GPD) applying the peak over threshold (POT) sampling method. Results show that the model overall performs well with regard to the selected objective measures, but also exhibits regional disparities mainly due to the availability of meteorological inputs or water management data. For most catchments, the LOT shows moderate to high confidence in the estimation of return periods with the hydrological model. Therefore, we consider the holistic modelling approach applicable for climate change impact studies concerned with dynamic alterations in peak flows.
A Review of Algae-Based Produced Water Treatment for Biomass and Biofuel Production
Authors: Rahman Ashiqur , Agrawal Saumya , Nawaz Tabish , Pan Shanglei , Selvaratnam Thinesh
Published: August 2020

Produced water (PW), the largest waste stream generated in oil and gas industries, has the potential to be a harmless product rather than being a waste. Biological processes using microorganisms have proven useful to remediate PW contaminated by petroleum hydrocarbons, complex organic chemicals, and solvents. In particular, the bioremediation of PW using algae is an eco-friendly and low-cost approach due to algae’s ability to utilize certain pollutants as nutrient sources. Therefore, the utilization of PW as an algal growth medium has a great potential to eliminate chemicals from the PW and minimize the large volumes of freshwater needed for cultivation. Although several reviews describing the bioremediation of PW have been published, to the best of our knowledge, no review has exclusively focused on the algae-based PW treatment. Therefore, the present review is dedicated to filling this gap by portraying the many different facets of the algae cultivation in PW. Several algal species that are known to thrive in a wide range of salinity and the critical steps for their cultivation in hypersaline PW have been identified. Overall, this comprehensive review highlights the PW bioremediation using algae and brings attention to utilizing PW to grow biomass that can be processed to generate biofuels and useful bioproducts.
Analysis of problems associated with the delivery of health care to children and adolescents from the point of view of medical workers of general education institutions
Authors: Chegurova Ya.
Published: August 2020

The author analyzed the data from the questionnaires of specialists with secondary medical education working in health centers of schools when studying the topic. As a result of the analysis importance of modern methods of health care and provision of medical services in schools has been substantiated. The problem of lack of equipment, tools, supplies in health centers, including shortage of personnel, has been identified.
Psychological aspects of the work of the sychological aspects of the work of the head of nursing services
Authors: Fomichev Danil
Published: August 2020

Psychological factors influencing the personality formation of the head of nursing services and the process of personnel management were studied. With the help of these factors the typological characteristics of heads of nursing services were evaluated.
Quality of training of paramedical staff - basis for health care development
Authors: Dvoynikov Sergey
Published: August 2020

The article set priorities for the formation of the talent pool of paramedical staff, their training and development at the level of secondary vocational and postgraduate education.
Sudden death of athletes in nursing practice
Authors: Novikov Sergey , Lipov Daniel , Skvortsov Vsevolod
Published: August 2020

The article deals with the epidemiology and main causes of sudden cardiac death in professional athletes and people participating in sports as amateurs. Pathogenesis of the main nosologies, as well as preventive measures and emergency care in case of life-threatening conditions are described.