bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Fibre Intake Is Associated with Serum Levels of Uraemic Toxins in Children with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: El Amouri Amina , Snauwaert Evelien , Foulon Aurélie , Vande Moortel Charlotte , Van Dyck Maria , Van Hoeck Koen , Godefroid Nathalie , Glorieux Griet , Van Biesen Wim , Vande Walle Johan , Raes Ann , Eloot Sunny
Published: March 2021

Imbalanced colonic microbial metabolism plays a pivotal role in generating protein-bound uraemic toxins (PBUTs), which accumulate with deteriorating kidney function and contribute to the uraemic burden of children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Dietary choices impact the gut microbiome and metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between dietary fibre and gut-derived PBUTs in paediatric CKD. Sixty-one (44 male) CKD children (9 ± 5 years) were prospectively followed for two years. Dietary fibre intake was evaluated by either 24-h recalls (73%) or 3-day food records (27%) at the same time of blood sampling for assessment of total and free serum levels of different PBUTs using liquid chromatography. We used linear mixed models to assess associations between fibre intake and PBUT levels. We found an inverse association between increase in fibre consumption (g/day) and serum concentrations of free indoxyl sulfate (−3.1% (−5.9%; −0.3%) (p = 0.035)), free p-cresyl sulfate (−2.5% (−4.7%; −0.3%) (p = 0.034)), total indole acetic acid (IAA) (−1.6% (−3.0%; −0.3%) (p = 0.020)), free IAA (−6.6% (−9.3%; −3.7%) (p < 0.001)), total serum p-cresyl glucuronide (pCG) (−3.0% (−5.6%; −0.5%) (p = 0.021)) and free pCG levels (−3.3% (−5.8%; −0.8%) (p = 0.010)). The observed associations between dietary fibre intake and the investigated PBUTs highlight potential benefits of fibre intake for the paediatric CKD population. The present observational findings should inform and guide adaptations of dietary prescriptions in children with CKD.
Therapeutic Applications of Botulinum Neurotoxin for Autonomic Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease: An Updated Review
Authors: Mitchell Steven D. , Sidiropoulos Christos
Published: March 2021

Parkinson’s disease is the most common age-related motoric neurodegenerative disease. In addition to the cardinal motor symptoms of tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability, there are numerous non-motor symptoms as well. Among the non-motor symptoms, autonomic nervous system dysfunction is common. Autonomic symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease include sialorrhea, hyperhidrosis, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and urinary dysfunction. Botulinum neurotoxin has been shown to potentially improve these autonomic symptoms. In this review, the varied uses of botulinum neurotoxin for autonomic dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease are discussed. This review also includes discussion of some additional indications for the use of botulinum neurotoxin in Parkinson’s disease, including pain.
Early-Transmitted Variants and Their Evolution in a HIV-1 Positive Couple: NGS and Phylogenetic Analyses
Authors: Lai Alessia , Giacomet Vania , Bergna Annalisa , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Zehender Gianguglielmo , Clerici Mario , Trabattoni Daria , Fenizia Claudio
Published: March 2021

We had access to both components of a couple who became infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 through sexual behavior during the early initial phase of infection and before initiation of therapy. We analyzed blood samples obtained at the time of diagnosis and after six months of combined antiretroviral therapy. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and phylogenetic analyses were used to investigate the transmission and evolution of HIV-1 quasispecies. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using Bayesian inference methods. Both partners were infected with an HIV-1 B subtype. No evidence of viral recombination was observed. The lowest intrapersonal genetic distances were observed at baseline, before initiation of therapy, and in particular in the V1V2 fragment (distances ranging from 0.102 to 0.148). One HIV-1 single variant was concluded to be dominant in all of the HIV-1 regions analyzed, although some minor variants could be observed. The same tree structure was observed both at baseline and after six months of therapy. These are the first extended phylogenetic analyses performed on both members of a therapy-naïve couple within a few weeks of infection, and in which the effect of antiretroviral therapy on viral evolution was analyzed. Understanding which HIV-1 variants are most likely to be transmitted would allow a better understanding of viral evolution, possibly playing a role in vaccine design and prevention strategies.
Profiles of Peripheral Immune Cells of Uncomplicated COVID-19 Cases with Distinct Viral RNA Shedding Periods
Authors: Putri Denise Utami , Wang Cheng-Hui , Tseng Po-Chun , Lee Wen-Sen , Chen Fu-Lun , Kuo Han-Pin , Lee Chih-Hsin , Lin Chiou-Feng
Published: March 2021

The heterogeneity of immune response to COVID-19 has been reported to correlate with disease severity and prognosis. While so, how the immune response progress along the period of viral RNA-shedding (VRS), which determines the infectiousness of disease, is yet to be elucidated. We aim to exhaustively evaluate the peripheral immune cells to expose the interplay of the immune system in uncomplicated COVID-19 cases with different VRS periods and dynamic changes of the immune cell profile in the prolonged cases. We prospectively recruited four uncomplicated COVID-19 patients and four healthy controls (HCs) and evaluated the immune cell profile throughout the disease course. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected and submitted to a multi-panel flowcytometric assay. CD19+-B cells were upregulated, while CD4, CD8, and NK cells were downregulated in prolonged VRS patients. Additionally, the pro-inflammatory-Th1 population showed downregulation, followed by improvement along the disease course, while the immunoregulatory cells showed upregulation with subsequent decline. COVID-19 patients with longer VRS expressed an immune profile comparable to those with severe disease, although they remained clinically stable. Further studies of immune signature in a larger cohort are warranted.
Endogenously Produced SARS-CoV-2 Specific IgG Antibodies May Have a Limited Impact on Clearing Nasal Shedding of Virus during Primary Infection in Humans
Authors: Yang Shuyi , Jerome Keith R. , Greninger Alexander L. , Schiffer Joshua T. , Goyal Ashish
Published: March 2021

While SARS-CoV-2 specific neutralizing antibodies have been developed for therapeutic purposes, the specific viral triggers that drive the generation of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG and IgM antibodies remain only partially characterized. Moreover, it is unknown whether endogenously derived antibodies drive viral clearance that might result in mitigation of clinical severity during natural infection. We developed a series of non-linear mathematical models to investigate whether SARS-CoV-2 viral and antibody kinetics are coupled or governed by separate processes. Patients with severe disease had a higher production rate of IgG but not IgM antibodies. Maximal levels of both isotypes were governed by their production rate rather than different saturation levels between people. Our results suggest that an exponential surge in IgG levels occurs approximately 5–10 days after symptom onset with no requirement for continual antigenic stimulation. SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG antibodies appear to have limited to no effect on viral dynamics but may enhance viral clearance late during primary infection resulting from the binding effect of antibody to virus, rather than neutralization. In conclusion, SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG antibodies may play only a limited role in clearing infection from the nasal passages despite providing long-term immunity against infection following vaccination or prior infection.
Selective Interaction of Sugarcane eIF4E with VPgs from Sugarcane Mosaic Pathogens
Authors: Yang Zongtao , Dong Meng , Cheng Guangyuan , Liu Shuxian , Zhang Hai , Shang Heyang , Zhou Yingshuan , Huang Guoqiang , Zhang Muqing , Wang Fengji , Xu Jingsheng
Published: March 2021

Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) plays a key role in the infection of potyviruses in susceptible plants by interacting with viral genome-linked protein (VPg). Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) production is threatened by mosaic disease caused by Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), Sorghum mosaic virus (SrMV), and Sugarcane streak mosaic virus (SCSMV). In this study, two eIF4Es and their isoform eIF(iso)4E and 4E-binding protein coding genes were cloned from sugarcane cultivar ROC22 and designated SceIF4Ea, SceIF4Eb, SceIF(iso)4E, and ScnCBP, respectively. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis showed different expression profiles of these four genes upon SCMV challenge. A subcellular localization assay showed that SceIF4Ea, SceIF4Eb, SceIF(iso)4E, and ScnCBP were distributed in the nucleus and cytoplasm. Yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays showed that SceIF4Ea/b and SceIF(iso)4E were selectively employed by different sugarcane mosaic pathogens, i.e., SCMV-VPg interacted with SceIF4Ea/b and SceIF(iso)4E, SrMV-VPg interacted with both SceIF4Eb and SceIF(iso)4E, and SCSMV-VPg interacted only with SceIF(iso)4E. Intriguingly, the BiFC assays, but not the Y2H assays, showed that ScnCBP interacted with the VPgs of SCMV, SrMV, and SCSMV. Competitive interaction assays showed that SCMV-VPg, SrMV-VPg, and SCMV-VPg did not compete with each other to interact with SceIF(iso)4E, and SceIF(iso)4E competed with SceIF4Eb to interact with SrMV-VPg but not SCMV-VPg. This study sheds light on the molecular mechanism of sugarcane mosaic pathogen infection of sugarcane plants and benefits sugarcane breeding against the sugarcane mosaic disease.
Hepatitis C Viral Replication Complex
Authors: Li Hui-Chun , Yang Chee-Hing , Lo Shih-Yen
Published: March 2021

The life cycle of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be divided into several stages, including viral entry, protein translation, RNA replication, viral assembly, and release. HCV genomic RNA replication occurs in the replication organelles (RO) and is tightly linked to ER membrane alterations containing replication complexes (proteins NS3 to NS5B). The amplification of HCV genomic RNA could be regulated by the RO biogenesis, the viral RNA structure (i.e., cis-acting replication elements), and both viral and cellular proteins. Studies on HCV replication have led to the development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) targeting the replication complex. This review article summarizes the viral and cellular factors involved in regulating HCV genomic RNA replication and the DAAs that inhibit HCV replication.
Blood Counts, Biochemical Parameters, Inflammatory, and Immune Responses in Pigs Infected Experimentally with the African Swine Fever Virus Isolate Pol18_28298_O111
Authors: Walczak Marek , Wasiak Magdalena , Dudek Katarzyna , Kycko Anna , Szacawa Ewelina , Olech Małgorzata , Woźniakowski Grzegorz , Szczotka-Bochniarz Anna
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to indicate the influence of infection caused by genotype II African swine fever virus (ASFV)–isolate Pol18_28298_O111, currently circulating in Poland, on blood counts, biochemical parameters, as well as inflammatory and immune responses. Blood and sera collected from 21 domestic pigs infected intranasally with different doses of virulent ASFV were analysed. The infection led to variable changes in blood counts depending on the stage of the disease with a tendency towards leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. The elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations and microscopic lesions in organs confirmed the development of the inflammation process, which also resulted in an increased level of biochemical markers such as: Aspartate transaminase (AST), creatine kinase (CK), creatinine, and urea. Antibodies could be detected from 9 to 18 days post infection (dpi). Two survivors presented the highest titer of antibodies (>5 log10/mL) with a simultaneous increase in the lymphocyte T (CD3+) percentage–revealed by flow cytometry. Results confirmed a progressive inflammatory process occurring during the ASFV infection, which may lead to multiple organs failure and death of the majority of affected animals.
Three-Year Clinical Follow-Up of Children Intrauterine Exposed to Zika Virus
Authors: Gazeta Rosa Estela , Bertozzi Ana Paula Antunes Pascalicchio , Dezena Rita de Cássia de Aguirre Bernardes , Silva Andrea Cristina Botelho , Fajardo Thamirys Cosmo Gillo , Catalan Daniel T. , Rizzo Maria de Fátima Valente , Moron Antonio Fernandes , Soriano-Arandes Antoni , Clemente Nuria Sanchez , Quintella Tania , Ventura Dora Fix , Damico Francisco Max , França Valtenice de Cassia Rodrigues de Matos , Almeida Juliana Paula Gomes de , Zara Ana Laura de Sene Amâncio , Pires Lucas Castro , Jundiaí Cohort Zika vírus , Passos Saulo Duarte
Published: March 2021

Congenital Zika virus (ZIKV) infection may present with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations. Some sequelae, particularly neurodevelopmental problems, may have a later onset. We conducted a prospective cohort study of 799 high-risk pregnant women who were followed up until delivery. Eighty-three women and/or newborns were considered ZIKV exposed and/or infected. Laboratory diagnosis was made by polymerase chain reaction in the pregnant mothers and their respective newborns, as well as Dengue virus, Chikungunya virus, and ZIKV serology. Serology for toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, and syphilis infections were also performed in microcephalic newborns. The newborns included in the study were followed up until their third birthday. Developmental delay was observed in nine patients (13.2%): mild cognitive delay in three patients, speech delay in three patients, autism spectrum disorder in two patients, and severe neurological abnormalities in one microcephalic patient; sensorineural hearing loss, three patients and dysphagia, six patients. Microcephaly due to ZIKV occurred in three patients (3.6%). Clinical manifestations can appear after the first year of life in children infected/exposed to ZIKV, emphasizing the need for long-term follow-up.
Evaluation of Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine Effectiveness in Ghana (TyVEGHA) Using a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Phase IV Trial: Trial Design and Population Baseline Characteristics
Authors: Haselbeck Andrea Haekyung , Tadesse Birkneh Tilahun , Park Juyeon , Gibani Malick M. , Espinoza Ligia María Cruz , Abreu Ariane , Van Rensburg Craig , Owusu-Ansah Michael , Twuamsi-Ankrah Sampson , Owusu Michael , Aguna Isaac , Picot Valentina , Jeon Hyonjin , Higginson Ellen , Park Sunju , Mojares Zenaida R. , Im Justin , Carey Megan E. , Khanam Farhana , Tonks Susan , Dougan Gordon , Kim Deokryun , Sugimoto Jonathan , Mogasale Vittal , Neuzil Kathleen M. , Qadri Firdausi , Adu-Sarkodie Yaw , Owusu-Dabo Ellis , Clemens John , Marks Florian
Published: March 2021

Typhoid fever remains a significant health problem in sub-Saharan Africa, with incidence rates of >100 cases per 100,000 person-years of observation. Despite the prequalification of safe and effective typhoid conjugate vaccines (TCV), some uncertainties remain around future demand. Real-life effectiveness data, which inform public health programs on the impact of TCVs in reducing typhoid-related mortality and morbidity, from an African setting may help encourage the introduction of TCVs in high-burden settings. Here, we describe a cluster-randomized trial to investigate population-level protection of TYPBAR-TCV®, a Vi-polysaccharide conjugated to a tetanus-toxoid protein carrier (Vi-TT) against blood-culture-confirmed typhoid fever, and the synthesis of health economic evidence to inform policy decisions. A total of 80 geographically distinct clusters are delineated within the Agogo district of the Asante Akim region in Ghana. Clusters are randomized to the intervention arm receiving Vi-TT or a control arm receiving the meningococcal A conjugate vaccine. The primary study endpoint is the total protection of Vi-TT against blood-culture-confirmed typhoid fever. Total, direct, and indirect protection are measured as secondary outcomes. Blood-culture-based enhanced surveillance enables the estimation of incidence rates in the intervention and control clusters. Evaluation of the real-world impact of TCVs and evidence synthesis improve the uptake of prequalified/licensed safe and effective typhoid vaccines in public health programs of high burden settings. This trial is registered at the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry, accessible at Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (ID: PACTR202011804563392).
Immunization with Epstein–Barr Virus Core Fusion Machinery Envelope Proteins Elicit High Titers of Neutralizing Activities and Protect Humanized Mice from Lethal Dose EBV Challenge
Authors: Cui Xinle , Cao Zhouhong , Ishikawa Yuriko , Cui Sara , Imadome Ken-Ichi , Snapper Clifford M.
Published: March 2021

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is the primary cause of infectious mononucleosis and is strongly implicated in the etiology of multiple lymphoid and epithelial cancers. EBV core fusion machinery envelope proteins gH/gL and gB coordinately mediate EBV fusion and entry into its target cells, B lymphocytes and epithelial cells, suggesting these proteins could induce antibodies that prevent EBV infection. We previously reported that the immunization of rabbits with recombinant EBV gH/gL or trimeric gB each induced markedly higher serum EBV-neutralizing titers for B lymphocytes than that of the leading EBV vaccine candidate gp350. In this study, we demonstrated that immunization of rabbits with EBV core fusion machinery proteins induced high titer EBV neutralizing antibodies for both B lymphocytes and epithelial cells, and EBV gH/gL in combination with EBV trimeric gB elicited strong synergistic EBV neutralizing activities. Furthermore, the immune sera from rabbits immunized with EBV gH/gL or trimeric gB demonstrated strong passive immune protection of humanized mice from lethal dose EBV challenge, partially or completely prevented death respectively, and markedly decreased the EBV load in peripheral blood of humanized mice. These data strongly suggest the combination of EBV core fusion machinery envelope proteins gH/gL and trimeric gB is a promising EBV prophylactic vaccine.
A Call for a Reform of the Influenza Immunization Program in Mexico: Epidemiologic and Economic Evidence for Decision Making
Authors: Tapia-Conyer Roberto , Betancourt-Cravioto Miguel , Montoya Alejandra , Falcón-Lezama Jorge Abelardo , Alfaro-Cortes Myrna María , Saucedo-Martínez Rodrigo
Published: March 2021

Limited information is available to determine the effectiveness of Mexico’s national influenza vaccination guidelines and inform policy updates. We aim to propose reforms to current influenza vaccination policies based on our analysis of cost-effectiveness studies. This cross-sectional epidemiological study used influenza case, death, discharge and hospitalization data from several influenza seasons and applied a one-year decision-analytic model to assess cost-effectiveness. The primary health outcome was influenza cases avoided; secondary health outcomes were influenza-related events associated with case reduction. By increasing vaccination coverage to 75% in the population aged 12–49 years with risk factors (diabetes, high blood pressure, morbid obesity, chronic renal failure, asthma, pregnancy), and expanding universal vaccination coverage to school-aged children (5–11 years) and adults aged 50–59 years, 7142–671,461 influenza cases; 1–15 deaths; 7615–262,812 healthcare visits; 2886–154,143 emergency room admissions and 2891–97,637 hospitalizations could be prevented (ranges correspond to separate age and risk factor groups), with a net annual savings of 3.90 to 111.99 million USD. Such changes to the current vaccination policy could potentially result in significant economic and health benefits. These data could be used to inform the revision of a vaccination policy in Mexico with substantial social value.
Zika Virus Pathogenesis: A Battle for Immune Evasion
Authors: Estévez-Herrera Judith , Pérez-Yanes Silvia , Cabrera-Rodríguez Romina , Márquez-Arce Daniel , Trujillo-González Rodrigo , Machado José-David , Madrid Ricardo , Valenzuela-Fernández Agustín
Published: March 2021

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection and its associated congenital and other neurological disorders, particularly microcephaly and other fetal developmental abnormalities, constitute a World Health Organization (WHO) Zika Virus Research Agenda within the WHO’s R&D Blueprint for Action to Prevent Epidemics, and continue to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) today. ZIKV pathogenicity is initiated by viral infection and propagation across multiple placental and fetal tissue barriers, and is critically strengthened by subverting host immunity. ZIKV immune evasion involves viral non-structural proteins, genomic and non-coding RNA and microRNA (miRNA) to modulate interferon (IFN) signaling and production, interfering with intracellular signal pathways and autophagy, and promoting cellular environment changes together with secretion of cellular components to escape innate and adaptive immunity and further infect privileged immune organs/tissues such as the placenta and eyes. This review includes a description of recent advances in the understanding of the mechanisms underlying ZIKV immune modulation and evasion that strongly condition viral pathogenesis, which would certainly contribute to the development of anti-ZIKV strategies, drugs, and vaccines.
Movements of Non-Migrant European Eels in an Urbanised Channel Linking a Mediterranean Lagoon to the Sea
Authors: Lagarde Raphaël , Peyre Jason , Amilhat Elsa , Bourrin François , Prellwitz François , Simon Gaël , Faliex Elisabeth
Published: March 2021

Transitional ecosystems and, particularly, Mediterranean lagoons represent important habitats for the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) population. In these habitats many anthropogenic pressures can disturb eel movements and, in turn, negatively affect the population. Despite the importance of movements during the non-migrant growing stage in eels, this topic is understudied in Mediterranean lagoons. We thus aim to describe the diel and seasonal phenology and the effect of environmental drivers on non-migrant eel movements. Videos obtained from an Adaptive Resolution Imaging Sonar (ARIS) acoustic camera that continuously recorded from October 2018 to April 2020 were processed to evaluate the daily number of eels swimming toward the lagoon. More than 60% of the 7207 eels observed were females with a size >45 cm. Movements were year-round and predominantly during the night. A Boosted Regression Tree analysis demonstrated that, among the 10 environmental drivers studied, flow velocity, water temperature, discharge of the main tributary, wind velocity and atmospheric pressure, had the strongest influence on eel movement activity. Non-migrant eel movements should be better incorporated into lagoon management plans through actions such as limiting dredging activities from 18:00 to midnight, especially when the water flows toward the lagoon and when the water temperature is higher than 12 °C.
From the Well to the Bottle: Identifying Sources of Microplastics in Mineral Water
Authors: Weisser Jana , Beer Irina , Hufnagl Benedikt , Hofmann Thomas , Lohninger Hans , Ivleva Natalia P. , Glas Karl
Published: March 2021

Microplastics (MP) have been detected in bottled mineral water across the world. Because only few MP particles have been reported in ground water-sourced drinking water, it is suspected that MP enter the water during bottle cleaning and filling. However, until today, MP entry paths were not revealed. For the first time, this study provides findings of MP from the well to the bottle including the bottle washing process. At four mineral water bottlers, five sample types were taken along the process: raw and deferrized water samples were filtered in situ; clean bottles were sampled right after they left the bottle washer and after filling and capping. Caustic cleaning solutions were sampled from bottle washers and MP particles isolated through enzymatic and chemical treatments. The samples were analyzed for eleven synthetic and natural polymer particles ≥11 µm with Fourier-transform infrared imaging and random decision forests. MP were present in all steps of mineral water bottling, with a sharp increase from <1 MP L−1 to 317 ± 257 MP L−1 attributed to bottle capping. As 81% of MP resembled the PE-based cap sealing material, abrasion from the sealings was identified as the main entry path for MP into bottled mineral water.
Variation in Xylem Hydraulic Structure and Function of Two Mangrove Species across a Latitudinal Gradient in Eastern Australia
Authors: Jiang Xin , Choat Brendan , Zhang Yong-Jiang , Guan Xin-Yi , Shi Wen , Cao Kun-Fang
Published: March 2021

Mangroves growing in tropical and subtropical intertidal zones face challenges from warming and altered rainfall patterns associated with global climate change. Intraspecific variation in hydraulic traits may allow a mangrove species to acclimate to novel climatic conditions, yet little is known regarding the potential for adaptive plasticity in these traits. In this study, we aimed to quantify the variation in plant hydraulic traits of two widespread mangrove species growing across a latitudinal gradient. We investigated the xylem hydraulic structure and function of Avicennia marina and Aegiceras corniculatum, across three sites spanning a latitudinal gradient of 17.45° in eastern Australia. We found that both species were highly resistant to xylem embolism and that there was significant intraspecific variation in hydraulic traits between sites. The highest embolism resistance and sapwood-specific hydraulic conductivity (KS) were found at the lowest latitude site that had the highest mean annual temperature and precipitation. A. marina showed no differences in vessel size and density among sites. It has other special features such as successive cambia enhancing its ability to adapt to a large environmental gradient. In contrast, A. corniculatum showed higher vessel densities at lower latitudes. There was a significant and positive correlation (R2 = 0.72, p < 0.05) between KS and embolism resistance across species and sites, suggesting the absence of a tradeoff between hydraulic efficiency and safety. Both embolism resistance and KS were negatively correlated with wood density but positively with vessel wall reinforcement. This study reveals that these two widespread mangrove species were adapted to warmer climates by enhancing both hydraulic efficiency and safety.
Community Composition and Function of Bacteria in Activated Sludge of Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants
Authors: Xie Ning , Zhong Liping , Ouyang Liao , Xu Wang , Zeng Qinghuai , Wang Keju , Zaynab Madiha , Chen Huirong , Xu Fangfang , Li Shuangfei
Published: March 2021

Municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) use functional microorganisms in activated sludge (AS) to reduce the environmental threat posed by wastewater. In this study, Illumina NovaSeq sequencing of 16S rRNA genes was performed to explore the microbial communities of AS at different stages of the two WWTP projects in Shenzhen, China. Results showed that Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Acidobacteria, Firmicutes, and Nitrospirae were the dominant phyla in all the samples, with Proteobacteria being the most abundant and reaching a maximum proportion of 59.63%. There was no significant difference in biodiversity between the two water plants, but Stage 1 and Stage 2 were significantly different. The Mantel test indicated that nitrate, total nitrogen (TN), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and nutrients were essential factors affecting the bacterial community structure. FAPROTAX analysis emphasized that the leading functional gene families include nitrification, aerobic nitrite oxidation, human pathogens, and phototrophy. This study reveals changes in the community structure of AS in different treatment units of Banxuegang WWTP, which can help engineers to optimize the wastewater treatment process.
Technologies Developing in Heavy Metals’ Removal from Water
Authors: Simeonidis Konstantinos , Mitrakas Manassis
Published: March 2021

Elevated concentrations of heavy metals in drinking water resources and industrial or urban wastewater pose a serious threat to human health and the equilibrium of ecosystems [...]
Real-World Mobility and Environmental Data for the Assessment of In-Vehicle Battery Capacity Fade
Authors: Paffumi Elena , Martini Giorgio
Published: March 2021

This work develops scenario-based analyses for predicting in-vehicle performance degradation of automotive traction batteries. It combines recent capacity performance-based models of NCM-LMO Li-ion (Nickel Cobalt Manganese Oxide—Lithium Manganese Oxide) variant batteries with real-world vehicle driving data from different geographical areas of Europe. The analysis addresses different battery and vehicle architectures (PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) and BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles)) combined with different recharging strategies and mobility patterns and environmental temperatures. The mobility pattern datasets used in this analysis refer to six European cities and include up to 508,609 private vehicles, corresponding to 1.78 billion GPS records, 9.1 million trips and parking events and a total driven distance of 106.1 million kilometers. The results show the effect that the environmental temperature, the recharging power, and the driven kilometers have on the calendar and cycling aging. The majority of the combinations of the considered vehicle architectures and recharge strategies do not lead to battery capacity drop below 80% of its nominal value in less than five calendar years for a usage profile of up to 1000 km/month.
A Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus population: its recent increase and breeding data
Authors: Schölin Karl Gustav , Källander Hans
Published: March 2021

Before 1983, Blue Tits Cyanistes caeruleus never made up more than four pairs of the breeding population in a nestbox study carried out in South Central Sweden. From five breeding pairs in 1983, the population increased to 29 pairs in 2007 and remained high to the end of the study in 2011. Mean laying date was strongly correlated with mean April temperature, which increased during 1983–2011. During the same period mean laying date became nearly ten days earlier. Mean clutch size was 9.90 eggs but varied both within and between years and showed a negative relationship to population size. The mean number of fledglings varied strongly between years, partly because of predation but also due to nestling starvation.
Legado de Obama en América Latina
Authors: Tentori David
Published: March 2021

El año 2016 se presenta como un punto de inflexión para la región latinoamericana. Existe una tendencia que indudablemente puede expresarse como “de cambio”. El presente artículo analiza las principales características de estas transformaciones teniendo como eje las relaciones de Estados Unidos con América Latina. El énfasis está puesto en las acciones concretas de la presidencia de Obama, cuyo gobierno –en clara oposición a la administración de Bush– reubica a la región sudamericana en un papel de importancia geoestratégica para los Estados Unidos haciéndose eco de la nueva coyuntura económica internacional y las transformaciones del contexto específicamente regional.
China:
Authors: Bernardis Joaquín , De la Torre María Victoria , Farabollini Bruno , Jullier Juan Pablo
Published: March 2021

“China es un gigante dormido. Dejadlo dormir porque, cuando despierte, el mundo se sacudirá” dijo Napoleón Bonaparte en 1816. Dos siglos después, el gigante ya ha despertado.

Actualmente, la República Popular China es la segunda economía del mundo y ha logrado, sin dejar de lado su lugar como potencia regional en Asia,  extender su poderío por los cinco continentes. De manera pacífica, y con el softpower como su mayor estrategia, ha sabido ganarse un lugar en la agenda política y económica de cada país con el cual ha iniciado vínculos diplomáticos.

En el presente trabajo se analizará el camino recorrido por elgigante asiático en el siglo XX y su transición hacia el siglo XXI. Su sistema político, su relación con los países vecinos, Estados Unidos y Europa; y su política exterior para África, la región latinoamericana y la República Argentina serán los ejes centrales.
Pivotes y mecanismo de la "Masculinidad Consciente".
Authors: España Galán Jair
Published: March 2021

El objetivo de este ensayo filosófico es realizar una presentación de lo que se considera “Masculinidad Consciente”, resaltando sus principales pivotes y mostrando de qué manera éstos pueden engranarse para construir un mecanismo relacional masculino fundamentado en el respeto de las diferencias psicológicas entre los individuos, y el respeto de lo humano y lo no-humano.

Para lo anterior será necesario realizar, inicialmente, un análisis filosófico de la forma en que se construye la masculinidad tradicional en Occidente, para posteriormente reflexionar sobre las posibilidades que tienen los hombres de hacer aportes a la lucha por la equidad (no igualdad) de género, lucha que históricamente han encabezado las mujeres. Se mostrará que la filosofía política, social y práctica puede hacer grandes aportes a las reflexiones sobre las formas en que los hombres establecen relaciones en el mundo, y que esta misma disciplina da fundamentos a la producción de una ética de las relaciones.

Se mostrará la forma en que la filosofía contemporánea francesa permite violentar la estructura atávica y universalizante de la masculinidad tradicional, y las posibles soluciones que surgen desde esta filosofía como pivotes constitutivos del mecanismo de una Masculinidad Consciente.
Apuntes en torno a los debates y conceptualizaciones del gobierno del Frente Para la Victoria en materia de Defensa
Authors: Alaniz Pablo Daniel
Published: March 2021

El presente trabajo tiene el objetivo de problematizar en torno a las principales perspectivas que se plantearon el gobierno de Néstor Kirchner y Cristina Fernández en relación a la planificación en cuestiones de defensa. Se mencionan algunos de sus principales lineamientos, así como las diferentes etapas y debates de los ejes conceptuales, haciendo hincapié en los objetivos políticos que perseguían con las reformas y la profundización de los principios liminares y los principales lineamientos de los ministros en la cartera durante el periodo de 2003- 2015, etapa que comprende el gobierno del Frente Para La Victoria.

Teniendo en consideración el consenso básico en que se nucleó el proyecto de defensa democrático, sostenemos que la política de defensa que mayor atención recibió, estuvo relacionada con la profundización de los principios liminares en los que se inauguró la política de Defensa de Alfonsín, dado que allí se destaca la definición concreta de las esferas de competencia de “Defensa Nacional y la Seguridad Interior” y el “Gobierno Civil de las Fuerzas Armadas (FFAA)”. Por otro lado, la impronta de la gestión de Cristina Fernández tuvo la característica de re-vincular al ministerio de defensa y el sistema de defensa argentino con la producción industrial de índole militar e infraestructural ─y en articulación con otras carteras─, el resguardo de los recursos naturales y la integración de las FFAA en el planeamiento estratégico ante eventuales emergencias climáticas.
Formas de vivencia, convivencia y supervivencia en el sector centro de Bogotá
Authors: Pinzón Daza Sandra Liliana
Published: March 2021

El estudio de las ciudades lleva inmerso el análisis de las prácticas sociales de los diferentes grupos humanos que allí confluyen, así como de las relaciones de los individuos con los espacios, lugares y actividades, propios de los centros urbanos. En el caso del centro urbano de la ciudad de Bogotá, comprendido en esta muestra entre las calles 19 a la 32 y las carreras tercera a la séptima, es posible describir las categorías de vivencia, convivencia y supervivencia que allí se observan, a partir de las estrategias para solucionar los problemas y las necesidades diarias de los grupos humanos que allí habitan o confluyen, y de las actividades que estructuran y diseñan la relación filial de los sujetos con su entorno. Lo anterior permite construir mapas cognitivos de los habitantes, comerciantes y transeúntes del sector centro de la ciudad de Bogotá. Para ello nos basamos en aspectos teóricos que revisan las diferencias entre las nociones de territorio, espacio y lugar; lo propuesto por Bourdieu (1990) en torno a las nociones de campo y habitus; y acudimos a la denominación de mapas cognitivos construida por Lee (1976), Milgram (1977). Bell, Fisher, Baum y Green (1996). Lynch (1960).
¿Crisis en la globalización o crisis de la globalización?
Authors: Zelicovich Julieta
Published: March 2021

Este trabajo tiene como meta presentar un análisis de coyuntura acerca de la llamada “crisis de la globalización”. La globalización es entendida como un proceso que tiene lugar en razón de un componente económico-tecnológico, como también político-ideológicoinstitucional; y que periódicamente atraviesa situaciones de crisis. ¿Es la crisis que se manifiesta a partir de 2016 diferente de las anteriores? ¿Qué es aquello que entra en crisis en torno al desarrollo de fenómenos como la elección de Donald Trump, en EEUU o el Brexit? ¿Cuáles son sus implicancias? A partir de un análisis de la literatura en torno al concepto de “crisis de globalización”, y de la contrastación empírica de sus indicadores, se busca dilucidar si se trata de una crisis en la globalización o una crisis de la globalización.
Quality of service; A view at the food and beverage establishments of a municipality in southern Sonora
Authors: Baez-Portillo María Marysol , Valenzuela-Cadena Andrea Carolina , Hernández-Ponce Oscar Ernesto , Córdova-Cárdenas Gilberto Manuel
Published: March 2021

The main objective of the investigation was to determine the level of quality of the service provided in the food and beverage establishments of Huatabampo Sonora. The methodology used in this research work has a quantitative approach and is descriptive non-experimental cross-section. Therefore, a documentary investigation was carried out to give theoretical support to the selected instrument. He multidimensional quantitative model called Dineserv, developed by Stevens, Knutson and Patton, (1995) cited by Guzmán and Cárcamo (2014), derived from the Servqual or Service Quality methodology of the authors Parasuraman was used to perform the service quality assessment , Zeithaml and Berry (1985). The results showed that the food and beverage establishments evaluated have a high level of service quality. To mention other results you can say that the contingency tables showed no significant differences in the age and gender of the subject in relation to the perception of service quality. Finally, it is observed that there is a significant positive correlation between the dimensions.
The Challenge of the Believing Intellectual
Authors: Voll John O.
Published: March 2021

This paper analyzes the role of Professor al Faruqi as a believing intellectual who contributed toward the development of an alternative model of modernity in which religion plays a definite and contributory role. Alternative modernity is not inevitably secular or nonreligious. This Islamic version of modernity is one amongst the multiple modernities of the globalized world. It puts forth a “modern” knowledge. Professor al Faruqi contributed to this venture through his project called the “Islamization of Knowledge.” In this way, Professor Ismail al-Faruqi illustrates the changing role of believing intellectuals in the second half of the twentieth century.
Al-Wasatiyyah as Understood and Defined by Islamic Scholars in Contemporary Singapore and Its Consistency with Ismail Al Faruqi’s Vision of Ummatan Wasatan
Authors: Hassan Kamal
Published: March 2021

This article delves into Professor al Faruqi’s understanding of the role of Islamic Ummah as being the ummatan wasatan ‒ “the median among the peoples of mankind” (Qur’an 2:143). For Professor al Faruqi, the concept of al-wasatiyyah (the middle way) explicates the concept of al-tawazun (Islamic balance and “golden means”). This mode of Islamic moderation as stressed by Professor al Faruqi is today in 2011 employed by the Singaporean Muslim community in its response to the government’s concern about Muslim radicalism in the republic. In this way, they do not stoop to the pressures of the country’s secular or religious authorities to compromise any of their religious convictions or beliefs, however much these were distasteful to the authorities.
Crime and Punishment in a Modern Muslim State
Authors: Ahangar Mohd Altaf Hussain
Published: March 2021

By and large, contemporary Muslims enjoy all the facilities and comforts of modern life. However, in relation to a governing legal system, they still wish to live according to the laws promulgated through the Qur’an and Sunnah (the Shari‘ah) without any alteration and addition. Yet such an approach does not provide a solution for all existing and emerging offences. An acceptable solution is possible if, as proposed by Muhammad Iqbal, the great philosopher of the East, we reinterpret Islam’s foundational legal principles in light of our own experiences and conditions. I hold that the foundational legal principles regarding crime and punishment are ḥadd(a fixed punishment mandated by the Qur’an and Sunnah), qiṣāṣ(equal retaliation [an eye for an eye]), dīyah(blood money, ransom), and ta‘zīr(punishment, usually corporal).
Entre Meio e Fim
Authors: Korsakas Paula , Rizzi Ester Gammardella , Tsukamoto Mariana Harumi Cruz , Galatti Larissa Rafaela
Published: March 2021

O esporte é um direito no cenário internacional e, no caso brasileiro, constitucional, fruto de processos históricos de construção e disputa de narrativas. Ainda assim, há grandes desafios a serem superados para sua realização. Entre eles, estão as ambiguidades e tensões entre práticas discursivas distintas que o apresentam como uma atividade humana que é própria à realização do desenvolvimento ou como ferramenta de desenvolvimento. Neste ensaio, questionamos a retórica instrumental do esporte - o esporte-meio -  que, a nosso ver, marginaliza e empobrece a experiência esportiva e, consequentemente, enfraquece-o como direito social. No lugar, argumentamos em favor do direito ao esporte como esporte-fim em que assegurá-lo pressupõe tornar as pessoas capazes de praticá-lo com liberdade e autodeterminação como experiência humana fundante de uma vida digna e boa.
“Ginasticando na Melhor Idade”
Authors: Lopes Priscila , Santos Loizy Maria Gomes
Published: March 2021

Este estudo tem como objetivo relatar a experiência do projeto de extensão “Ginasticando na melhor idade”, realizado no ano de 2019, pela Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri. A partir de documentos produzidos pelo projeto (relatórios de planejamento e avaliação; plano de trabalho; planos de aula; acervo de imagens; etc.), buscamos apresentar o desenvolvimento da Ginástica Para Todos (GPT) como uma atividade de lazer interessante para o público em processo de envelhecimento (50 anos de idade em diante). Acreditamos que por meio de adequações que respeitem a idade biológica, a história de vida e os desejos dos praticantes, a GPT se apresenta como uma modalidade gímnica pertinente à faixa etária em questão, pois suas particularidades envolvem aspectos inclusivos, socializadores e que estimulam a criatividade e a autonomia dos sujeitos, priorizando o prazer pela prática.
Wieś idealna – układ przestrzenny i zabudowa miejscowości Paproć Duża
Authors: Dolistowska Małgorzata
Published: March 2021

Artykuł prezentuje okoliczności powstania i historię wsi Paproć Duża założonej w końcu XVIII w. pod nazwą Königshuld w ramach akcji osadniczej obejmującej nieskolonizowane obszary Prus Nowowschodnich. Spośród innych, lokowanych wówczas miejscowości, wyróżnia ją oryginalny układ przestrzenny, oparty o schemat koncentryczno-promienisty. Dokonana została analiza centralnego założenia przestrzennego w kontekście nielicznych, analogicznie rozplanowanych wsi osadniczych założonych na ziemiach polskich w 2. połowie XVIII wieku w ramach kolonizacji fryderycjańskiej.
Landscaping of green areas in the urban layout of midtown Lublin
Authors: Przesmycka Natalia , Boguszewska Kamila
Published: March 2021

Today’s Lublin midtown has been shaped through both spontaneous and planned change. The oldest existing form of green landscaping in midtown Lublin are its convent gardens. Most of them have not retained their former character which was influenced by both changes in ownership and functionality. Planned green area landscaping as an element of urban composition appeared in Lublin for the first time at the beginning of the 19th century. It was then that the streamlined squares, markets and streets (Plac Musztry, Krakowskie Przedmieście, church squares) as well as the newly mapped out road and rail links gained a frame in the form of trees and shrubbery. A number of trees planted in the 19th century are still around to this day, forming a valued element of the city’s cultural and natural landscape. Soon after, the first city public parks appeared (Park na Czechówce, Ogród Miejski and Park Bronowicki). The historic cemeteries (at Lipowa St., the cemetery by the Evangelical church) are a very specific variant of urban green landscape in today’s midtown.

This article shows kinds of planned green area urban landscaping characteristic to midtown Lublin, based on the archival source materials, project studies, literature and iconography. The transformations of forms and functionalities of the indicated areas have been studied in the period from their foundation to date. Lublin midtown’s most vital public space – Plac Litewski – was the subject of detailed analysis.
Understanding the influence of contact resistances on short-channel high-mobility organic transistors in linear and saturation regimes
Authors: Tazuhara Shion , Nagase Takashi , Kobayashi Takashi , Sadamitsu Yuichi , Naito Hiroyoshi
Published: March 2021

Solution-processed organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) based on 2,7-didodecyl[1]benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophene (C12-BTBT) exhibit a high channel field-effect mobilities (μ
FET) of 10 cm2 V−1 s−1, while effective μ
FET significantly decreases with reducing channel length. Here, we investigate the influence of contact resistances on the effective μ
FET of short-channel C12-BTBT FETs operated in the linear and saturation regimes. The numerical calculations using an equivalent circuit involving source and drain contact resistances reveal a large influence of the effective gate-source voltage on the reduction of saturation μ
FET in short-channel OFETs. An anomalous trend in the channel-length dependence of linear and saturation μ
FET in C12-BTBT FETs is also discussed.