bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement in Infection Prevention and Control Performance Following Operational Research in Sierra Leone: A Before (2021) and After (2023) Study
Authors: Margao Senesie , Fofanah Bobson Derrick , Thekkur Pruthu , Kallon Christiana , Ngauja Ramatu Elizabeth , Kamara Ibrahim Franklyn , Kamara Rugiatu Zainab , Tengbe Sia Morenike , Moiwo Matilda , Musoke Robert , Fullah Mary , Kanu Joseph Sam , Lakoh Sulaiman , Kpagoi Satta Sylvia T. K. , Kamara Kadijatu Nabie , Thomas Fawzi , Mannah Margaret Titty , Katawera Victoria , Zachariah Rony
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Infection prevention and control (IPC) is crucial to limit health care-associated infections and antimicrobial resistance. An operational research study conducted in Sierra Leone in 2021 reported sub-optimal IPC performance and provided actionable recommendations for improvement. Methods: This was a before-and-after study involving the national IPC unit and all twelve district-level secondary public hospitals. IPC performance in 2021 (before) and in 2023 (after) was assessed using standardized World Health Organization checklists. IPC performance was graded as: inadequate (0–25%), basic (25.1–50%), intermediate (50.1–75%), and advanced (75.1–100%). Results: The overall IPC performance in the national IPC unit moved from intermediate (58%) to advanced (78%), with improvements in all six core components. Four out of six components achieved advanced levels when compared to the 2021 levels. The median score for hospitals moved from basic (50%) to intermediate (59%), with improvements in six of eight components. Three of four gaps identified in 2021 at the national IPC unit and four of seven at hospitals had been addressed by 2023. Conclusions: The study highlights the role of operational research in informing actions that improved IPC performance. There is a need to embed operational research as part of the routine monitoring of IPC programs.
Newtonian Cosmology and Evolution of κ-Deformed Universe
Authors: Harikumar E. , Sreekumar Harsha , Panja Suman Kumar
Published: July 2023

Considering space-time to be non-commutative, we study the evolution of the universe employing the approach of Newtonian cosmology. Generalizing the conservation of energy and the first law of thermodynamics to κ-deformed space-time, we derive the modified Friedmann equations, valid up to the first order, in the deformation parameter. Analyzing these deformed equations, we derive the time evolution of the scale factor in cases of radiation-dominated, matter-dominated, and vacuum (energy)-dominated universes. We show that the rate of change of the scale factor in all three situations is modified by the non-commutativity of space-time, and this rate depends on the sign of the deformation parameter, indicating a possible explanation for the observed Hubble tension. We undertake this investigation for two different realizations of non-commutative space-time coordinates. In both cases, we also argue for the existence of bounce in the evolution of the universe.
Current Perspectives on the Management of Herpesvirus Infections in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Malahe S. Reshwan K. , van Kampen Jeroen J. A. , Manintveld Olivier C. , Hoek Rogier A. S. , den Hoed Caroline M. , Baan Carla C. , Kho Marcia M. L. , Verjans Georges M. G. M.
Published: July 2023

Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are at high risk of human herpesvirus (HHV)-related morbidity and mortality due to the use of immunosuppressive therapy. We aim to increase awareness and understanding of HHV disease burden in SOTRs by providing an overview of current prevention and management strategies as described in the literature and guidelines. We discuss challenges in both prevention and treatment as well as future perspectives.
Apis mellifera Solinvivirus-1, a Novel Honey Bee Virus That Remained Undetected for over a Decade, Is Widespread in the USA
Authors: Ryabov Eugene V. , Nearman Anthony J. , Nessa Ashrafun , Grubbs Kyle , Sallmann Benjamin , Fahey Rachel , Wilson Mikayla E. , Rennich Karen D. , Steinhauer Nathalie , Fauvel Anne Marie , Chen Yanping , Evans Jay D. , vanEngelsdorp Dennis
Published: July 2023

A metagenomic analysis of the virome of honey bees (Apis mellifera) from an apiary with high rates of unexplained colony losses identified a novel RNA virus. The virus, which was named Apis mellifera solinvivirus 1 (AmSV1), contains a 10.6 kb positive-strand genomic RNA with a single ORF coding for a polyprotein with the protease, helicase, and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase domains, as well as a single jelly-roll structural protein domain, showing highest similarity with viruses in the family Solinviviridae. The injection of honey bee pupae with AmSV1 preparation showed an increase in virus titer and the accumulation of the negative-strand of AmSV1 RNA 3 days after injection, indicating the replication of AmSV1. In the infected worker bees, AmSV1 was present in heads, thoraxes, and abdomens, indicating that this virus causes systemic infection. An analysis of the geographic and historic distribution of AmSV1, using over 900 apiary samples collected across the United States, showed AmSV1 presence since at least 2010. In the year 2021, AmSV1 was detected in 10.45% of apiaries (95%CI: 8.41–12.79%), mostly sampled in June and July in Northwestern and Northeastern United States. The diagnostic methods and information on the AmSV1 distribution will be used to investigate the connection of AmSV1 to honey bee colony losses.
Human Post-Translational SUMOylation Modification of SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein Enhances Its Interaction Affinity with Itself and Plays a Critical Role in Its Nuclear Translocation
Authors: Madahar Vipul , Dang Runrui , Zhang Quanqing , Liu Chuchu , Rodgers Victor G. J. , Liao Jiayu
Published: July 2023

Viruses, such as Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), infect hosts and take advantage of host cellular machinery for genome replication and new virion production. Identifying and elucidating host pathways for viral infection is critical for understanding the development of the viral life cycle and novel therapeutics. The SARS-CoV-2 N protein is critical for viral RNA (vRNA) genome packaging in new virion formation. Using our quantitative Förster energy transfer/Mass spectrometry (qFRET/MS) coupled method and immunofluorescence imaging, we identified three SUMOylation sites of the SARS-CoV-2 N protein. We found that (1) Small Ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) modification in Nucleocapsid (N) protein interaction affinity increased, leading to enhanced oligomerization of the N protein; (2) one of the identified SUMOylation sites, K65, is critical for its nuclear translocation. These results suggest that the host human SUMOylation pathway may be critical for N protein functions in viral replication and pathology in vivo. Thus, blocking essential host pathways could provide a novel strategy for future anti-viral therapeutics development, such as for SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses.
SARS-CoV-2 Serological Investigation of White-Tailed Deer in Northeastern Ohio
Authors: Boley Patricia A. , Dennis Patricia M. , Faraone Julia N. , Xu Jiayu , Liu Mingde , Niu Xiaoyu , Gibson Stormy , Hale Vanessa , Wang Qiuhong , Liu Shan-Lu , Saif Linda J. , Kenney Scott P.
Published: July 2023

Coronaviruses are known to cross species barriers, and spill over among animals, from animals to humans, and vice versa. SARS-CoV-2 emerged in humans in late 2019. It is now known to infect numerous animal species, including companion animals and captive wildlife species. Experimental infections in other animals have established that many species are susceptible to infection, with new ones still being identified. We have developed an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detecting antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) and spike (S) proteins, that is both sensitive and specific. It can detect S antibodies in sera at dilutions greater than 1:10,000, and does not cross-react with antibodies to the other coronaviruses tested. We used the S antibody ELISA to test serum samples collected from 472 deer from ten sites in northeastern Ohio between November 2020 and March 2021, when the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic was first peaking in humans in Ohio, USA. Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were found in serum samples from every site, with an overall positivity rate of 17.2%; we further compared the viral neutralizing antibody titers to our ELISA results. These findings demonstrate the need to establish surveillance programs to monitor deer and other susceptible wildlife species globally.
Detection and Molecular Characterization of Adenoviruses in Captive and Free-Roaming African Green Monkeys (Chlorocebus sabaeus): Evidence for Possible Recombination and Cross-Species Transmission
Authors: Mancuso Diana M. , Gainor Kerry , Dore Kerry M. , Gallagher Christa A. , Cruz Katalina , Beierschmitt Amy , Malik Yashpal S. , Ghosh Souvik
Published: July 2023

In the present study, 31 samples (12 fecal, 9 nasal and 10 rectal swabs) from 28/92 (30.43%, 10 captive and 18 free-roaming African green monkeys (AGMs, Chlorocebus sabaeus)) apparently healthy AGMs in the Caribbean Island of St. Kitts tested positive for adenoviruses (AdVs) by DNA-dependent DNA polymerase (pol)-, or hexon-based screening PCR assays. Based on analysis of partial deduced amino acid sequences of Pol- and hexon- of nine AGM AdVs, at least two AdV genetic variants (group-I: seven AdVs with a Simian mastadenovirus-F (SAdV-F)/SAdV-18-like Pol and hexon, and group-II: two AdVs with a SAdV-F/SAdV-18-like Pol and a Human mastadenovirus-F (HAdV-F)/HAdV-40-like hexon) were identified, which was corroborated by analysis of the nearly complete putative Pol, complete hexon, and partial penton base sequences of a representative group-I (strain KNA-08975), and -II (KNA-S6) AdV. SAdV-F-like AdVs were reported for the first time in free-roaming non-human primates (NHPs) and after ~six decades from captive NHPs. Molecular characterization of KNA-S6 (and the other group-II AdV) indicated possible recombination and cross-species transmission events involving SAdV-F-like and HAdV-F-like viruses, corroborating the hypothesis that the evolutionary pathways of HAdVs and SAdVs are intermingled, complicated by recombination and inter-species transmission events, especially between related AdV species, such as HAdV-F and SAdV-F. To our knowledge, this is the first report on detection and molecular characterization of AdVs in AGMs.
Adaptation of Droplet Digital PCR-Based HIV Transcription Profiling to Digital PCR and Association of HIV Transcription and Total or Intact HIV DNA
Authors: Tumpach Carolin , Rhodes Ajantha , Kim Youry , Ong Jesslyn , Liu Haoming , Chibo Doris , Druce Julian , Williamson Deborah , Hoh Rebecca , Deeks Steven G. , Yukl Steven A. , Roche Michael , Lewin Sharon R. , Telwatte Sushama
Published: July 2023

In most people living with HIV (PLWH) on effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), cell-associated viral transcripts are readily detectable in CD4+ T cells despite the absence of viremia. Quantification of HIV RNA species provides insights into the transcriptional activity of proviruses that persist in cells and tissues throughout the body during ART (‘HIV reservoir’). One such technique for HIV RNA quantitation, ‘HIV transcription profiling’, developed in the Yukl laboratory, measures a series of HIV RNA species using droplet digital PCR. To take advantage of advances in digital (d)PCR, we adapted the ‘HIV transcription profiling’ technique to Qiagen’s dPCR platform (QIAcuity) and compared its performance to droplet digital (dd)PCR (Bio-Rad QX200 system). Using RNA standards, the two technologies were tested in parallel and assessed for multiple parameters including sensitivity, specificity, linearity, and intra- and inter-assay variability. The newly validated dPCR assays were then applied to samples from PLWH to determine HIV transcriptional activity relative to HIV reservoir size. We report that HIV transcriptional profiling was readily adapted to dPCR and assays performed similarly to ddPCR, with no differences in assay characteristics. We applied these assays in a cohort of 23 PLWH and found that HIV reservoir size, based on genetically intact proviral DNA, does not predict HIV transcriptional activity. In contrast, levels of total DNA correlated with levels of most HIV transcripts (initiated, proximally and distally elongated, unspliced, and completed, but not multiply spliced), suggesting that a considerable proportion of HIV transcripts likely originate from defective proviruses. These findings may have implications for measuring and assessing curative strategies and clinical trial outcomes.
Visual and Super-Sensitive Detection of Maize Chlorotic Mottle Virus by Dot-ELISA and Au Nanoparticle-Based Immunochromatographic Test Strip
Authors: Zhang Cui , Guo Mengmeng , Dong Jinxi , Liu Li , Zhou Xueping , Wu Jianxiang
Published: July 2023

Maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV) is the only species in the Mahromovirus genus and is often co-infected with one or several viruses of the Potyvirus genus, posing a great threat to the global maize industry. Effective viral integrated management measures are dependent on the timely and proper detection of the causal agent of the disease. In this work, six super-sensitive and specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against MCMV were first prepared using purified MCMV virions as the immunogen. Then, the Dot enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Dot-ELISA) was established based on the obtained mAbs, and it can detect MCMV in infected maize leaf crude extracts diluted up to 1:10,240-fold (w/v, g/mL). Furthermore, a rapid and user-friendly Au nanoparticle-based immunochromatographic test strip (AuNP-ICTS) based on paired mAbs 7B12 and 17C4 was created for monitoring MCMV in point-of-care tests, and it can detect the virus in a 25,600-fold dilution (w/v, g/mL) of MCMV-infected maize leaf crude extracts. The whole test process for ICTS was completed in 10 min. Compared with conventional reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), the detection endpoint of both serological methods is higher than that of RT-PCR, especially the Dot-ELISA, which is 12.1 times more sensitive than that of RT-PCR. In addition, the detection results of 20 blinded maize samples by the two serological assays were consistent with those of RT-PCR. Therefore, the newly created Dot-ELISA and AuNP-ICTS exhibit favorable application potential for the detection of MCMV in plant samples.
Clinical Profile of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Mechanisms of the Cellular Immune Response and Immunogenetic Markers in Patients from Brazil
Authors: Pacheco Vanessa , Cuber Guimarães Rosane , Corrêa-Moreira Danielly , Magalhães Carlos Eduardo , Figueiredo Douglas , Guttmann Patricia , Trindade Gisela Freitas , da Silva Juliana Fernandes Amorim , Ano Bom Ana Paula Dinis , de Lourdes Maia Maria , Melgaço Juliana Gil , da Costa Barros Tamiris Azamor , da Silva Andrea Marques Vieira , Group Collaborative , Oliveira Manoel Marques Evangelista
Published: July 2023

Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate some mechanisms of the immune response of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 in both acute infection and early and late convalescence phases. Methods: This is a cohort study of 70 cases of COVID-19, confirmed by RT-PCR, followed up to 60 days. Plasma Samples and clinical data were. Viral load, blood count, indicators inflammation were the parameters evaluated. Cellular immune response was evaluated by flow cytometry and Luminex immunoassays. Results: In the severe group, hypertension was the only reported comorbidity. Non severe patients have activated memory naive CD4+ T cells. Critically ill patients have central memory CD4+ T cell activation. Severe COVID-19 patients have both central memory and activated effector CD8+ T cells. Non-severe COVID-19 cases showed an increase in IL1β, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF and severely ill patients had higher levels of the cytokines IL-6, IL-10 and CXCL8. Conclusions: The present work showed that different cellular responses are observed according to the COVID-19 severity in patients from Brazil an epicenter the pandemic in South America. Also, we notice that some cytokines can be used as predictive markers for the disease outcome, possibility implementation of strategies effective by health managers.
Maternal Fever and Reduced Fetal Movement as Predictive Risk Factors for Adverse Neonatal Outcome in Cases of Congenital SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Meta-Analysis of Individual Participant Data from Case Reports and Case Series
Authors: Bernad Elena S. , Duica Florentina , Antoniadis Panagiotis , Moza Andreea , Lungeanu Diana , Craina Marius , Bernad Brenda C. , Maghet Edida , Vasilache Ingrid-Andrada , Maghiari Anca Laura , Arnautu Diana-Aurora , Iacob Daniela
Published: July 2023

Objectives: To determine risk factors for primary and secondary adverse neonatal outcomes in newborns with congenital SARS-CoV-2 infection. Data sources: PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar from January 2020 to January 2022. Study eligibility criteria: newborns delivered after 24 weeks of gestation with confirmed/possible congenital SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to standard classification criteria. Methods: Execution of the IPD analyses followed the PRISMA-IPD statement. Univariate non-parametric tests compared numerical data distributions. Fisher’s exact or Chi-square test determined categorical variables’ statistical significance. Multivariate logistic regression revealed risk factors for adverse neonatal outcome. Results: Maternal fever was associated with symptomatic congenital infection (OR: 4.55, 95% CI: 1.33–15.57). Two-thirds of women that reported decreased fetal movements were diagnosed with IUFD (p-value = 0.001). Reduced fetal movement increased the risk of intrauterine fetal death by 7.84 times (p-value = 0.016, 95% CI: 2.23–27.5). The risk of stillbirth decreased with gestational age at the time of maternal infection (p-value < 0.05, OR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.79–0.97). Conclusions: Maternal fever and perception of reduced fetal movement may be predictive risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcome in cases with congenital SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Characterization of Brucella abortus Mutant A19mut2, a Potential DIVA Vaccine Candidate with a Modification on Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Abdelgawad Hosny Ahmed , Lian Zhengmin , Yin Yi , Fang Tian , Tian Mingxing , Yu Shengqing
Published: July 2023

Background: Brucella abortus is the main causative agent for bovine brucellosis. B. abortus A19 is a widely used vaccine strain to protect cows from Brucella infection in China. However, A19 has a similar lipopolysaccharide (LPS) antigen to that of the field virulent Brucella strain, whose immunization interferes with the serodiagnosis of vaccinated and infected animals. [Aim] To develop a novel Brucella DIVA vaccine candidate. Study design and methods: The B. abortus mutant A19mut2 with the formyltransferase gene wbkC is replaced by an acetyltransferase gene wbdR from E. coli O157 using the bacterial homologous recombination technique, generating a modified O-polysaccharide that cannot induce antibodies in mice against wild-type Brucella LPS. The biological phenotypes of the A19mut2 were assessed using a growth curve analysis, agglutination tests, Western blotting, and stress resistance assays. Histopathological changes and bacterial colonization in the spleens of vaccinated mice were investigated to assess the residual virulence and protection of the A19mut2. Humoral and cellular immunity was evaluated by measuring the levels of IgG, IgG subtypes, and the release of cytokines IFN-γ and IL10 in the splenocytes of the vaccinated mice. ELISA coated with wild-type LPS can distinguish mouse antibodies induced by A19 and A19mut2 immunization. Results: The A19mut2 showed a decreased residual virulence in mice, compared to the A19 strain, but induced significant humoral and cellular immune responses, as the A19 immunization did. The protection efficacy of A19mut2 immunization against B. abortus S2308 NalR infection was similar to that of A19 immunization. Conclusion: The A19mut2 has potential as a novel DIVA vaccine candidate in the future.
Assessment of Risk Perception of COVID-19 Post Vaccination amongst the General Population of Riyadh Region
Authors: Al-Shouli Samia T. , AlAfaleq Nouf O. , Almansour Mohammed , Alsadhan Munira , Alsalem Norah , Alqahtani Maha , Aldahash Norah , Almazyad Leena , Alhazmi Sadeem , Aljerian Khaldoon
Published: July 2023

COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. Vaccination against the virus was first approved in Saudi Arabia in December 2020. Vaccinated individuals are still at risk of getting infected with the virus and can transmit the disease. Therefore, the perception of vaccinated individuals regarding the disease can help limit the spread of the virus. Objectives: To measure the risk perception of COVID-19 following vaccination and factors that have an effect on risk perception; to identify the health protective behaviours of the vaccinated individuals. Methodology: This is a quantitative analytical cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study. The target population includes individuals aged 18 and above who live in the Riyadh region and have been vaccinated, during the period of June 2021 to December 2021. Results: The perception of 30.2% of participants did not change after vaccination, with many participants continuing to “always” take precautions even after vaccination. Numerous factors, such as age, gender, marital status, occupational status, employment status, and total household income, have shown significant effects towards risk perception. Conclusion: Many vaccinated individuals have continued to take precautionary steps and their risk perception has not changed.
Analysis of Intestinal Microbiota and Metabolic Pathways before and after a 2-Month-Long Hydrolyzed Fish and Rice Starch Hypoallergenic Diet Trial in Pruritic Dogs
Authors: Noli Chiara , Varina Antonella , Barbieri Caterina , Pirola Alessandra , Olivero Daniela
Published: July 2023

Intestinal microbiota alterations were described in allergic individuals and may improve with diets. Farmina Ultra Hypo (FUH), a hydrolyzed fish/rice starch hypoallergenic diet, is able to improve clinical signs in allergic dogs. Study objectives were to determine microbiota differences in allergic dogs before and after feeding with FUH for eight weeks. Forty skin allergic dogs were evaluated clinically before and after the diet. Unresponsive dogs were classified as canine atopic dermatitis (CAD); responsive dogs relapsing after challenge with previous foods were classified as being food reactive (AFR), and those not relapsing as doubtful (D). Sequencing of feces collected pre- and post-diet was performed, with comparisons between and within groups, pre- and post-diet, and correlations to possible altered metabolic pathways were sought. Microbiota in all dogs was dominated by Bacteroidota, Fusobacteriota, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, albeit with large interindividual variations and with some prevalence changes after the diet. In general, bacteria producing short-chain fatty acids were increased in all samples. CAD dogs showed pre-and post-diet microbiota patterns different from the other two groups. Bacteria taxa were enriched post-diet only in the AFR group. Changes in metabolic pathways were observed mainly in the CAD group. FUH may be able to improve intestinal microbiota and thus clinical signs of skin allergy.
Microplastics, Additives, and Plasticizers in Freshwater Bivalves: Preliminary Research of Biomonitoring
Authors: Cesarini Giulia , Corami Fabiana , Rosso Beatrice , Scalici Massimiliano
Published: July 2023

Microplastics are widespread in freshwater environments and could impact these ecosystems. Bivalves are freshwater organisms that are particularly exposed to microplastic contamination. Therefore, in this preliminary study, the accumulation of microplastics, plasticizers, and additives in the freshwater bivalves Anodonta cygnea was investigated through active biomonitoring. Specimens bought commercially were exposed in three rivers in Central Italy for different exposure times: short (1 month) and long (3 months). The gills and the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) were analyzed separately to evaluate the possible uptake and ingestion of particles via Micro-FTIR. For the first time, small microplastics (SMPs, 5–100 µm), plasticizers, additives, and other micro-litter components, e.g., natural and non-plastic synthetic fibers (APFs), were identified in the bivalve A. cygnea. The most abundant polymer in the gills (94.4%) and in the GITs (66.1%) was polyamide, which had the highest concentration in each river. A decrease in SMPs’ abundance was observed over time in the gills in each river, while the abundance in the GIT increased. Compared to polymers, a greater variety of APFs was observed in rivers. The APFs changed during the time of exposure and between different rivers more evidently than polymers, allowing for a clearer identification of the possible sources. These results highlighted the plastic pollution caused by SMPs using freshwater bivalves as sentinel organisms and the need to further investigate the additives that can be proxies of the presence of microplastics in the environment and biota.
Sustainability Perspective of Minjiang Estuary Coastal Fisheries Management—Estimation of Fish Richness
Authors: Wang Jia-Qiao , Li Jun , Shih Yi-Jia , Huang Liang-Min , Wang Xin-Ruo , Chu Ta-Jen
Published: July 2023

Species richness is the most basic concept of diversity and is crucial to biodiversity conservation and sustainable fisheries. To understand the fish species richness of the Minjiang Estuary and its adjacent waters, eight documents and surveyed data were collected and compared from 1990–2021. To obtain suitable analysis data, the content of the data was compared and evaluated. Explore the suitability of data based on several criteria. Among them, the bottom trawling survey carried out in 2006–2007, and non-parametric estimation methods such as Chao 2, Jackknife 1, Jackknife 2 and Bootstrap were used to estimate the fish species richness. The results of this case show that a total of 153 species of fish were caught in the trawling survey in the fourth quarter, belonging to 14 orders, 57 families and 101 genera. The 2006–2007 cruise is more complete for studying species richness. The Estimable expectations of fish species richness are: 250 (Chao 2), 204 (Jackknief 1), 241 (Jackknief 2) and 174 (Bootstrap). The number of fish species was significantly higher in summer and autumn than winter and spring. To manage fishery resources and sustainability in the sea area of Fujian Province, biological information and stock assessment are required. This meaningful information, especially for endemic and economically important species such as can set a baseline. Once species change exceeds the baseline range, it provides decision-making basis for marine biodiversity conservation and fisheries management.
Assessment of the Impact of Abandoned Mine Water on Groundwater Environment
Authors: Liu Yuxiang , Ma Guanqun , Han Yu , Wang Yubo , Tang Cui , Tian Ning , Tang Xiaoshan , Jiang Lulu , Zuo Hanyue , Zhang Yuexing , Wang Shanlin , Wang Ao , Mao Deqiang , Liu Shiliang
Published: July 2023

The assessment of the impact of abandoned mine water on the underwater environment is critical for protecting and restoring the groundwater environment. Taking the abandoned coal mining area in the west of Zhangqiu District as the engineering background and comprehensively considering the regional groundwater chemical characteristics data during the wet and dry seasons, the main characteristics of the ions, hydrochemical types, and ion correlations of the abandoned mine water with the regional groundwater components were analyzed using mathematical statistics, correlation analysis, and Piper diagrams. An impact assessment was conducted on the water quality index values of the groundwater monitoring point. Furthermore, this research establishes an evaluation method of abandoned mine water in a regional groundwater environment based on the improved Nemero index method and matter element theory. Overall, the groundwater pH is weakly alkaline in Zhangqiu District. The groundwater Ca2+ is the dominant cation, while HCO3− and SO42− are the dominant anions. The main ion concentration during the dry season is slightly greater than during the wet season. The main hydrochemical type of groundwater during the wet and dry seasons is HCO3-Ca. In addition, there is a correlation between NO3− and F−, which may be caused by human activities. The groundwater environment is classified as level IV and severely polluted.
Flushing Efficiency of Run-of-River Hydropower Plants: Novel Approaches Based on Physical Laboratory Experiments
Authors: Gold Thomas , Reiterer Kevin , Hauer Christoph , Habersack Helmut , Sindelar Christine
Published: July 2023

Periodic flushing operations during moderate flood events (≤annual flood flow HQ1) are an approach to counteract problems caused by disturbed sediment continuity in rivers, which is possibly an effect of run-of-river hydropower plants (RoR-HPPs). Considering ecology, flood risk, technical, and economical reasons, discharge values of 0.7 × HQ1 are a good reference point for the initiation of gate operations. This work aimed to investigate the role of different gate opening actions on the effectiveness of such flushing measures. Physical model tests were performed, to capture bed load rates, together with 2D velocity measurements in the vicinity of two movable radial gates above a fixed weir. The length scale of the idealized model arrangement was 1:20, and a conveyor-belt sediment feeder was used to supply a heterogeneous sediment mixture. Velocities were acquired using 2D laser doppler velocimetry (LDV). Based on the LDV measurements, mean velocity profiles and Reynolds stresses were derived. The full opening of both radial gates led to the highest bed load mobility. While the flushing efficiency drastically decreased, even for slightly submerged gates, an asymmetrical gate opening initially led to the formation of a flushing cone in the vicinity of the weir, accompanied by temporarily high flushing efficiency. In conclusion, our results stress the importance of full drawdowns in successfully routing incoming bed load downstream of the HPP. However, the combination of an asymmetric gate opening followed by a full drawdown could be a promising approach to further improve the flushing efficiency of RoR-HPPs.
Determining Groundwater Drought Relative to the Opening of a River Barrage in Korea
Authors: Yun Sul-Min , Jeong Ji-Hye , Jeon Hang-Tak , Cheong Jae-Yeol , Hamm Se-Yeong
Published: July 2023

Groundwater droughts are one of the natural disasters that raise serious water issues for humans, and are increasing in frequency due to global climate change. In order to identify groundwater droughts, we recorded groundwater level fluctuations upstream at Changnyeong-Haman River barrage from May 2012 to October 2020, based on the groundwater level characteristics and Nakdong River stages. Next, we grouped groundwater levels by K-means clustering, converted groundwater levels to kernel density estimation (KDE), and calculated a standardized groundwater level index (SGLI). Finally, we judged groundwater drought by using the SGLI values corresponding to the opening and closing of the barrage. In the study area, the SGLI criteria for discriminating groundwater drought were −0.674 (caution), −1.282 (severe), and −1.645 (very severe), respectively, corresponding to the 25th, 10th, and 5th percentiles. Based on the SGLI values, groundwater levels on the monitoring wells mostly lie below the 25th percentile during the five opening periods of the barrage. According to cross-correlation analysis, the groundwater level sensitively reacted with the river stage, which influenced groundwater drought. As a result, the SGLI along with the river stages was verified as an efficient tool for evaluating groundwater drought as well as for appropriately operating the barrage.
The Diversity, Structure, and Development of the Epibiont Community of Paramuricea clavata (Risso, 1826) (Cnidaria, Anthozoa)
Authors: Canessa Martina , Amedeo Ilaria , Bavestrello Giorgio , Panzalis Pier , Trainito Egidio
Published: July 2023

Mass mortality events and anthropogenic impacts affecting Paramuricea clavata (Risso, 1826) have been increasingly documented during the last decades. These impacts have enhanced the settling of epibiont organisms on injured colonies. This epibiosis was studied using photographic sampling carried out on the granitic outcrops of the Tavolara Channel within the Tavolara–Punta Coda Cavallo marine-protected area (NE Sardinia) between 2017 and 2023 at 35–55 m. The number of colonies and percentage of surface involved in the epibiosis, the specific richness of the epibiont community, and the temporal evolution of the phenomenon were studied. Almost all the investigated gorgonians (93%) showed parts involved in epibiosis, with high percentages of surface covering (one-third of the surface). Out of the 37 epibiont species recorded, the most recurrent ones demonstrated an ecological succession dominated by Hydrozoa, Porifera, Bryozoa, Serpulidae, and the parasitic soft coral Alcyomiun coralloides. Nevertheless, single colonies studied over time revealed the unpredictability of the colonization process. The peculiar habitat of the granitic outcrops hosting the P. clavata forests is of a high naturalistic value and demonstrates a widespread condition of suffering, supported by both environmental and anthropogenic sources of stress. Such considerations make it necessary to review the current zonation of the area, where the actual vulnerability and usability evaluations are based on incomplete information.
Mitigating Water Shortage via Hydrological Modeling in Old and New Cultivated Lands West of the Nile in Egypt
Authors: Badr Abir M. , Abdelradi Fadi , Negm Abdelazim , Ramadan Elsayed M.
Published: July 2023

Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions are increasingly concerned about water scarcity. Egypt, one of the arid MENA nations that relies primarily on Nile water, faces a water scarcity issue because of a mismatch between demand and supply. This study presents an integrated executive system for managing water resources in two regions of Egypt that have traits with many MENA regions facing water scarcities. Hydrological modeling is required for the modeling of water resources, and model calibration procedures should be implemented to compare the simulated values to the observed and measured values to minimize model errors. The Water Evaluation and Planning (WEAP) model was used in this study to simulate the network systems of Egypt’s Minia Governorate on the western bank of the Nile’s narrow valley and Nubariya in the West Nile Delta, the lower reaches of the Nile. Using field data and experience, as well as other inputs, geographic information system (GIS) software digitized streams using satellite-interpreted data. The models were run, calibrated, and validated. The main calibration objective was to reduce the discrepancy between the actual and modeled flows as much as possible. Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), percentage BIAS (PBIAS), volumetric efficiency (VE), and agreement index (d) values were calculated for three calibration cases. For anticipating water shortages until 2050, two scenarios were examined: (1) climate change scenarios based on historical climatic data from 1960 to 1990 and from 1991 to 2020, which led to a prediction scenario (2021–2050) of increasing temperature in the areas leading to evapotranspiration (ET) increases of 5.42% and 5.13% and (2) canal lining scenarios, which found a flow saving in the areas, showing that we can overcome the anticipated water shortage progress if canal lengths are rehabilitated by 10% and 25% in Minia and Nubariya.
Hydrochemical Characteristics, Water Quality, and Evolution of Groundwater in Northeast China
Authors: Zhang Tao , Wang Pei , He Jin , Liu Dandan , Wang Min , Wang Mingguo , Xia Shibin
Published: July 2023

Groundwater is vital to local human life and agricultural irrigation, and the quality of the water is critical to human health. As a result, it is critical to investigate the hydrochemical evolution and water quality of groundwater in the Sanjiang Plain. There were 259 samples obtained. Furthermore, hydrogeochemical simulation was performed to highlight groundwater’s hydrochemical features, evolution process, and water quality. The analytical results show that the groundwater in the study area is somewhat alkaline with a mean TDS of 285.94 mgL−1 and the primary contributing ions being Ca2+ and HCO3−. The closer the concentration of TDS and NO3− is to the city, the higher the concentration, indicating that the chemical composition of the water body has been affected by certain human activities. The Piper diagram, Gibbs diagram, and correlation analysis results demonstrate that the chemical type of groundwater is mostly HCO3-Ca and the hydrochemistry is primarily regulated by weathering and carbonate and silicate dissolution. According to the entropy-weighted water quality index, the groundwater quality in this location is pretty acceptable. This study could help strengthen groundwater quality monitoring based on local conditions, identify the source of nitrate, provide data support for the safe use of local water resources, and serve as a reference for global water chemical evolution and water quality evaluation in cold regions.
Sea Level Rise-Induced Transition from Rare Fluvial Extremes to Chronic and Compound Floods
Authors: Mita Kazi Samsunnahar , Orton Philip , Montalto Franco , Saleh Firas , Rockwell Julia
Published: July 2023

Flooding is becoming more frequent along U.S. coastlines due to the rising impacts of fluvial and coastal flood sources, as well as their compound effects. However, we have a limited understanding of mechanisms whereby sea level rise (SLR) changes flood drivers and contributes to flood compounding. Additionally, flood mitigation studies for fluvial floodplains near tidal water bodies often overlook the potential future contribution of coastal water levels. This study investigates the role of SLR in inducing high-tide flooding (HTF) and compound flooding in a neighborhood that lies on a fluvial floodplain. Eastwick, Philadelphia, is a flood-prone neighborhood that lies on the confluence of two flashy, small tributaries of the tidal Delaware River. We develop a combined 1D-2D HEC-RAS fluvial-coastal flood model and demonstrate the model’s accuracy for low-discharge tidal conditions and the extreme discharge conditions of tropical Cyclone (TC) Isaias (2020) (e.g., Root Mean Square Error 0.08 and 0.13 m, respectively). Simulations show that Eastwick may experience SLR-induced HTF as soon as the 2060s, and the flood extent (34.4%) could become as bad as present-day extreme event flooding (30.7% during TC Isaias) as soon as the 2080s (based on 95th percentile SLR projections). Simulations of Isaias flooding with SLR also indicate a trend toward compounding of extreme fluvial flooding. In both cases the coastal flood water enters Eastwick through a different pathway, over a land area not presently included in some fluvial flood models. Our results show that SLR will become an important contributor to future flooding even in fluvial floodplains near tidal water bodies and may require development of compound flood models that can capture new flood pathways.
Akrilnitril-butadién-sztirol (ABS) lemezek kavaró dörzshegesztésének erőtani és kötésszilárdsági vizsgálata
Authors: Stadler Róbert Gábor , Horváth Richárd
Published: July 2023

Jelen tanulmány célja, hogy megvizsgáljuk a kavaró dörzshegesztés technológia alkalmazhatóságát akrilnitril-butadién-sztirol (ABS) típusú polimerre, valamint a hegesztési paraméterek hatását a hegesztés során fellépő erőkre és a hegesztési varrat szilárdságára. A vizsgálatokat 4 mm vastag ABS-lemezeken hajtottuk végre, hagyományos szerszámkialakítás mellett. A bemeneti paramétereket (fordulatszám, előtolási sebesség) 3-3 szinten változtattuk, és teljes kísérlettervet hajtottunk végre. Az erőmérésekből azt a következtetést vontuk le, hogy a hegesztés során fellépő erőértékek közül az előtolási irányú erő (Fy) és az axiális irányú erő (Fz) a domináns. A fordulatszám és az előtolási sebesség (n/vf ) arányszáma növelésével csökkennek az erőkomponensek, míg az előtolási sebesség növekedésével nőnek. A varrat szakítószilárdsága a fordulatszám és az n/vf arányszám növelésével javul, míg az előtolási sebesség növelésével romlik. A legjobb varratszilárdságot (10,69 MPa) 1000 1/perc fordulatszámon és 50 mm/perc előtolási sebességnél mértük.
Maternal mental illness and child atopy: a UK population-based, primary care cohort study
Authors: Osam Cemre Su , Hope Holly , Ashcroft Darren M , Abel Kathryn M , Pierce Matthias
Published: July 2023

Background

The number of children exposed to maternal mental illness is rapidly increasing and little is known about the effects of maternal mental illness on childhood atopy.

Aim

To investigate the association between maternal mental illness and risk of atopy among offspring.

Design and setting

Retrospective cohort study using a UK primary care database (674 general practices).

Method

In total, 590 778 children (born 1 January 1993 to 30 November 2017) were followed until their 18th birthday, with 359 611 linked to their hospital records. Time-varying exposure was captured for common (depression and anxiety), serious (psychosis), addiction (alcohol and substance misuse), and other (eating and personality disorder) maternal mental illness from 6 months before pregnancy. Using Cox regression models, incidence rates of atopy were calculated and compared for the exposed and unexposed children in primary (asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies) and secondary (asthma and food allergies) care, adjusted for maternal (age, atopy history, smoking, and antibiotic use), child (sex, ethnicity, and birth year/season), and area covariates (deprivation and region).

Results

Children exposed to common maternal mental illness were at highest risk of developing asthma (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.15 to 1.20) and allergic rhinitis (aHR 1.17, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.21), as well as a hospital admission for asthma (aHR 1.29, 95% CI = 1.20 to 1.38). Children exposed to addiction disorders were 9% less likely to develop eczema (aHR 0.91, 95% CI = 0.85 to 0.97) and 35% less likely to develop food allergies (aHR 0.65, 95% CI = 0.45 to 0.93).

Conclusion

The finding that risk of atopy varies by type of maternal mental illness prompts important aetiological questions. The link between common mental illness and childhood atopy requires GPs and policymakers to act and support vulnerable women to access preventive (for example, smoking cessation) services earlier.
Premature Deaths and Economic Losses Attributable to Long- and Short-Term PM
2.5
Exposure in China
Authors: Song Jun , Li Chunlin , Hu Yuanman , Zhang Jing , Kang Jieming , Zhao Lujia
Published: July 2023

In recent years, China has suffered severe particulate matter pollution. Satellite-derived PM
2.5
datasets and baseline mortality rate data were used to analyze the premature deaths (PDs) and economic losses (ELs) attributable to long-term PM
2.5
exposure (LTE) and short-term PM
2.5
exposure (STE) in mainland China. The results illustrated that the PDs attributable to LTE presented an increasing trend between 2000 and 2014 and a fluctuating decreasing trend after 2014. The number of peaked PDs in 2014 was 1.45 million, and it decreased to 1.43 million in 2019. From 2000 to 2019, ELs attributable to LTE increased from $93.83 billion to $523.02 billion. The PDs attributable to STE revealed a fluctuating upward trend from 2000 to 2013 and a downward trend after 2013. The number of peaked PDs in 2013 was 75.89 × 10
3
and decreased to 14.81 × 10
3
in 2019. ELs attributable to STE rose from $3.56 billion in 2000 to $22.96 billion in 2013, declining to $5.78 billion in 2019. The benefits of improving air quality in reducing PDs attributed to LTE were partially offset by the aging population. Therefore, the increase in PDs and ELs attributed to LTE slowed in recent years. Benefit from the decrease in PM
2.5
concentration, PDs and ELs attributable to STE declined significantly. The results of this study could provide a better understanding of the hazards attributable to PM
2.5
exposure and provide a reliable theoretical basis for regional air pollution control measures.
Economic Sanctions Affecting Household Food and Nutrition Security and Policies to Cope With Them: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mohammadi-Nasrabadi Fatemeh , Ghodsi Delaram , Haghighian-Roudsari Arezoo , Esfarjani Fatemeh , Khoshfetrat Mohammad-Reza , Houshialsadat Zeinab , Mohammadi-Nasrabadi Maryam , Fadavi Ghasem , Majdzadeh Reza
Published: July 2023

Background: This review was conducted to identify the impact of economic sanctions on household food and nutrition security and policies to cope with them in countries exposed to sanctions. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines 2020 were used to identify, select, appraise, and synthesize studies. Electronic databases in addition to Persian ones have been systematically searched for all related documents published until March 2022. Exclusion criteria were: lack of data related to food insecurity in countries subject to sanction and very low quality of the article. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal checklists. The results were presented as qualitative and quantitative syntheses. Results: Of 1428 identified studies, 36 publications remained in the review, which belong to Iran (n=8), Cuba (n=8), Russia (n=7), Iraq (n=7), and Haiti (n=6), respectively. Declining gross domestic product (GDP), devaluation of the national currency, and the quality of food, increase in inflation, unemployment, and consumer prices, infant and under 5 years mortality, energy, and protein deficiency, and the poverty rate were reported as sanction consequences. The most important strategies to improve food security were the humanitarian assistance provided by the international community (Haiti), equity and priority for vulnerable groups mainly by expanding the healthcare system (Cuba), adopting a food ration system in the oil-for-food program, and fixing the price of food baskets (Iraq), import substitution and self-sufficiency (Russia), support domestic production, direct and indirect support and compensation packages for vulnerable households (the approach of resistance economy in Iran). Conclusion: Due to the heterogeneity of studies, meta-analysis was not possible. Since inadequate physical and economic food access caused by sanctions affects especially disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, planning to improve food security and providing support packages for these groups seems necessary.