bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landscape Pattern Changes and Climate Response in Nagqu Hangcuo National Wetland Park in the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Wang Xinyi , Hu Zihong , Xu Juncai
Published: June 2023

Wetlands are vital ecosystems in the Tibetan Plateau that play a crucial role in water conservation, flood storage, and biodiversity maintenance. They are sensitive to climate change and typically have high ecological and environmental quality levels due to minimal human disturbance. This study aimed to quantify landscape pattern changes within the Nagqu Hangcuo National Wetland Park (NNWP) and identify the impact of climate on wetland change. Using remote sensing data from six periods (1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2015), dynamic change analysis, landscape pattern analysis, and correlation analysis were employed to determine the evolutionary features of the wetland landscape and explore their relationship with climatic factors. The results showed that the total wetland area increased from 15.11 km2 in 1990 to 15.23 km2 in 2015. The meadow area increased the most among landscape types, primarily converted from swamps. Over 25 years, the fragmentation of the NNWP’s landscape increased while diversity decreased and its shape became more complex. Meadows were more sensitive to climatic factors than other landscape types, with correlation coefficients between wetland separation and sunshine duration being more significant than other climatic factors. Therefore, it is imperative to monitor landscape pattern changes and the effects of climate change to better protect wetland parks through long-term planning, suitable mechanisms, and advanced technology.
Assessment of Cultural Ecosystem Services and Well-Being: Testing a Method for Evaluating Natural Environment and Contact Types in the Harku Municipality, Estonia
Authors: Nevzati Fiona , Külvik Mart , Storie Joanna , Tiidu Liisa-Maria , Bell Simon
Published: June 2023

This study examined the evaluation of cultural ecosystem services (CESs) and their impact on well-being in peri-urban areas, using a case study in Harku municipality, Estonia. CESs, encompassing intangible factors such as emotions and values, are crucial for well-being but challenging to assess. To address this, a pilot method was developed, involving a typology of natural environment types (NETs) and contact types (CTs), assessed by a panel of local experts. The results revealed that “spiritual, historic, and symbolic” gardens exhibited a strong positive connection to well-being. Blue and green spaces offering physical activities and aesthetics were also highly rated. Surprisingly, cemeteries scored higher than expected. Agreement among experts varied, with “parks + sporting” showing near-perfect consensus and weaker agreement found in “parks + food production”, “blue spaces + providing gathering places”, and “green landscape elements + education”, highlighting diverse expert perspectives in identifying suitable combinations of NETs and CTs. This study addresses research-to-practice gaps and methodological challenges in applying CESs within planning frameworks, providing valuable insights for managing and conserving services in peri-urban areas. By testing the proposed method, this research contributes to a better understanding of how CESs can be effectively integrated into planning processes, fostering sustainable well-being in peri-urbanised regions.
Prospects for Research, Development, Innovation and Technology Transfer in Romanian Horticulture
Authors: Vac Călin S. , Andreica Ileana , Roman Ioana A.
Published: June 2023

An analysis of the research, innovation and technology transfer environment carried out by the European Commission ranks Romania in one of the last places in Europe, mentioning the lack of investments in research, especially at the level of modern infrastructure and equipment, among the most important reasons. On the other hand, Romanian universities must face the competition at the international and the European level, in order to face the technical and socio-economic challenges both at the societal level, and with respect to the inherent technological evolutions. Under these conditions, this article presents a case study of a top university in Romania that has, for the first time in its history as an EU member, successfully implemented European structural funding investment and research grant for building a new advanced research institute at the level of excellence compatible with the most demanding expectations in the field of horticulture, and is using it in accordance with the standards of the European Research Area. In an analysis of the results of all horticultural labs covered by the new institute, also from a perspective of cross-cutting collaboration between them, during a 5-year study of sustainability, the model presented demonstrates the effectiveness and efficiency of European structural funds in the field of scientific research. It is a real success of advanced research, innovation, development, and technology transfer, which can be adopted by any other university in the EU.
Calibration of Turbulent Model Constants Based on Experimental Data Assimilation: Numerical Prediction of Subsonic Jet Flow Characteristics
Authors: He Xin , Yuan Changjiang , Gao Haoran , Chen Yaqing , Zhao Rui
Published: June 2023

Experimental measurements and numerical simulations are two primary methods for studying turbulence. However, these methods often struggle to balance the accuracy and breadth of results. In order to accurately predict the flow characteristics of subsonic jet exhaust and provide a research foundation for the runway crossing operation after the takeoff point, this study utilizes the ensemble Kalman filter algorithm to recalibrate the SA turbulence model constants by integrating NASA’s experimental particle image velocimetry (PIV) data with a sample library generated using Latin hypercube sampling to obtain corresponding flow field calculations. The modified model constants effectively improve the prediction of jet flow characteristics, reducing the spatially averaged relative error along the horizontal axis behind the nozzle from 13.04% to 4.6%. This study focuses on enhancing the accuracy of numerical predictions for subsonic jet flows via the adjustment of turbulence model constants. The recalibrated model constants are then validated to improve the prediction of jet flows under various conditions. The findings have important implications for acquiring high-fidelity data on rear engine jet flows after takeoff, enabling precise determination of safety separation distances, and enhancing the operational efficiency of airports.
Impact of Short Video Marketing on Tourist Destination Perception in the Post-pandemic Era
Authors: Chen Han , Wu Xiaowei , Zhang Yiyao
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the world’s social development, especially tourism development, and has also spurred the industry to update its marketing model. In the post-pandemic era, traditional offline marketing cannot meet the needs of the industry and tourists, highlighting the urgent need to change marketing methods. Short video social media platforms, represented by Douyin, have become an important means for short video marketing and tourism destination marketing. This study aimed to analyze the impact of short video marketing on tourist destination perception in the post-pandemic era. The study collected comments on short videos on Douyin about the theme park Xiyou Paradise using crawler software (version 8.6.2). The ROST CM6 software (version 6.0) was used for word frequency, social network semantics, and sentiment analysis of the crawled data. The results revealed shortcomings in short video content and short video marketing effects, for which the study proposed solutions. The findings are expected to provide suggestions for tourism destination marketing and enrich the research on tourism short video marketing.
Endoscopic Excision of Rare Large Maxillary Sinus Osteoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Irimia Ioana Maria , Gata Anda , Puscas Irina Maria , Covaliu Bogdan Florin , Albu Silviu
Published: June 2023

Paranasal sinus osteomas are the most common benign fibro-osseous lesions that occur in the paranasal sinuses, having potential serious complications. With a prevalence ratio of 2:1 towards males, in 95% of the cases, the osteomas are situated most commonly in the frontoethmoidal region. However, osteomas of the maxillary sinus account for less than 5% of cases. The management of symptomatic paranasal sinus osteomas is surgical and is decided based on tumor size and location, patient symptoms, and experience of the surgeon. The Caldwell–Luc procedure, lateral rhinotomy, or craniotomy as external standard procedures remain mandatory if endonasal endoscopic surgery fails. In most reported cases, large tumors are excised by an external approach or in conjunction with an endoscopic technique. Endoscopic treatment of such tumors is a huge challenge for the operator. We report on a 42-year-old male patient presenting with a giant calcified mass in the right maxillary sinus. In this case, an endonasal approach was the most appropriate management even with the large size of the tumor. No recurrence at 24 months follow-up was reported.
A Family of 1D Chaotic Maps without Equilibria
Authors: Lawnik Marcin , Moysis Lazaros , Volos Christos
Published: June 2023

In this work, a family of piecewise chaotic maps is proposed. This family of maps is parameterized by the nonlinear functions used for each piece of the mapping, which can be either symmetric or non-symmetric. Applying a constraint on the shape of each piece, the generated maps have no equilibria and can showcase chaotic behavior. This family thus belongs to the category of systems with hidden attractors. Numerous examples of chaotic maps are provided, showcasing fractal-like, symmetrical patterns at the interchange between chaotic and non-chaotic behavior. Moreover, the application of the proposed maps to a pseudorandom bit generator is successfully performed.
An Adaptive Symmetrical Load Balancing Scheme for Next Generation Wireless Networks
Authors: Manzoor Sohaib , Mazhar Farrukh , Binaris Abdullah , Hassan Moeen Uddin , Rasab Faria , Mohamed Heba G.
Published: June 2023

In dense Wi-Fi networks, achieving load balancing is critical to optimize network utilization and provide equitable network consumption among the users. Traditional Wi-Fi networks have issues in attaining effective load balancing. Software-Defined Networking (SDN) has presented a viable solution by isolating the data plane and control plane, enabling more agile and cost-effective networks. In this paper we put forward an Adaptive Symmetrical Load Balancing (ASLB) scheme to ensure fairness of load symmetry in Software Defined Wi-Fi Networks (SD-Wi-Fi), while also optimizing the flows transition process using an Analytical Hierarchal Process (AHP). User activity is monitored by access points (APs), which operate under OpenFlow standards. Three essential features, packet volume, packet category and delay hindrance, are used for flow assignment to various controllers. The controllers are arranged in two tiers, universal and regional controllers. The universal controller (UC) handles the workload statistics of regional controllers (RC) in the form of clusters. Extensive simulations using OMNeT++ simulator are performed. The performance parameters taken into consideration are throughput, delay, packet loss rate, network transition count and workload distribution. Our findings demonstrate that the ASLB technique effectively optimizes the network utilization and ensures equitable network consumption among the end users. The proposed scheme outperforms the Mean Probe Delay scheme (MPD), Channel Measurement-based Access Selection scheme (CMAS), Received Signal Strength Indicator-based scheme (RSSI) and Distributed Antenna Selection scheme (DASA), being 40% higher in throughput and 25% lower in delay.
Asymmetric Pattern of Correlations of Leucine Aminopeptidase Activity between Left or Right Frontal Cortex versus Diverse Left or Right Regions of Rat Brains
Authors: Ramírez-Sánchez Manuel , Prieto Isabel , Segarra Ana Belén , Banegas Inmaculada , Martínez-Cañamero Magdalena , Domínguez-Vías Germán , Durán Raquel , Vives Francisco , Alba Francisco
Published: June 2023

Previous studies demonstrated an asymmetry of left predominance for mean values of soluble leucine aminopeptidase (LeuAP) activity in the frontal cortex (FC) and hypothalamus of adult male rats, fluorimetrically analyzed by the hydrolysis of Leu-β-naphthylamide as a substrate. No asymmetries were observed in nine other left (L) and right (R) regions obtained from rostro-caudally sectioned coronal slices. Neither had inter-hemispheric differences observed for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), analyzed simultaneously in the same brain regions (L and R) of the same animals. However, the level of intra-hemispheric or inter-hemispheric correlation of LeuAP or LDH between such brain regions has not been analyzed. In order to obtain additional suggestions on the functional heterogeneity between regions of LeuAP and LDH, in the present investigation, the level of intra-hemispheric and inter-hemispheric correlations of the frontal cortex with the rest of the regions studied is described: (A) between the left frontal cortex (LFC) and the rest of the left regions; (B) between the right frontal cortex (RFC) and the rest of the right regions; (C) between the left frontal cortex and all of the right regions; and (D) between the right frontal cortex and all of the left regions. All of the correlations obtained were positive. The intra-hemispheric analysis showed a greater heterogeneity of values in the correlations observed between RFC and the rest of the right regions than between LFC and the rest of the left regions. Greater heterogeneity is observed when comparing RFC correlations with left regions than when comparing LFC correlations with right regions. In conclusion, the greatest heterogeneity (suggesting a greater functional variability) was observed in the right intra-hemispheric analysis and in the inter-hemispheric analysis between the RFC and the left hemisphere. The results for LDH showed a great homogeneity between regions both in the intra- and inter-hemispheric studies.
Self-Mobilization Exercise Program Improved Postural Stability in the Anterior-Posterior Direction with Eyes Closed
Authors: Shibata Daisuke , Yoshida Yuri
Published: June 2023

Maintenance of equilibrium is influenced by postural symmetry and deviations such as a forward head. An exercise program involving an effect such as self-joint mobilization was developed to address spinal curvature; however, its effect on postural stability is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to address to what extent the self-mobilization exercise program would influence postural sway while standing still. The Exercise group (n = 16) performed the self-mobilization while lying supine on a cylinder-shaped tube (98 cm length, 15 cm diameter), consisting of three warm-up positionings followed by seven motions. The Control group (n = 16) laid supine on a flat surface with their legs flexed. Before and immediately after respective interventions, the plantar center of pressure was quantified while subjects were standing with eyes open and closed. The results show the exercise group reduced the postural sway in the antero-posterior direction only during the eyes-closed condition. Neither exercise nor control groups showed a significant change in postural sway during the eyes-open condition. Our findings indicate the self-mobilization exercise program improved the participant’s stability when visual feedback was not reliable for postural control. The improved postural control in the antero-posterior direction may be accounted for by facilitated activation of planterflexors and dorsiflexors which are primary muscles in ankle strategy for postural control. Effects of this exercise program on postural stability appear to be direction dependent, which provide insight when healthcare professionals incorporate exercise programs for postural symmetry.
Triple Priority: TB/HIV Co-Infection and Treatment Outcomes among Key Populations in The Kyrgyz Republic: A National Cohort Study (2018–2022)
Authors: Goncharova Olga , Abrahamyan Arpine , Nair Divya , Beglaryan Mher , Bekbolotov Aibek , Zhdanova Elena , Kadyrov Abdullaat , Zachariah Rony
Published: June 2023

Background: Improving tuberculosis (TB) care in key populations is an operational research priority in the Kyrgyz Republic. Here, we describe the characteristics of TB/HIV co-infected individuals, their affiliations with key country-wide population groups, and their TB treatment outcomes. Methods: This was a cohort study using national programmatic data (2018–2022). The key population groups included people with increased exposure to TB, limited access to TB services, and increased risk of acquiring TB. Results: Among 693 individuals with TB/HIV co-infection, the majority (58%) of individuals were from two regions of the Kyrgyz Republic (Chui and Bishkek). Eighty-four percent (84%) individuals had one or more affiliations to eight key population groups, with 49% of the individuals affiliated to ≥2 groups and 92% of the individuals were on both antiretroviral treatment and cotrimoxazole preventive therapy. Overall, 406 (59%) of the individuals had successful outcomes and 287 (41%) of the individuals had unsuccessful outcomes. Unsuccessful outcomes increased from 36% (n-39) with TB/HIV alone to 47% (n-86) with affiliations to ≥3 key population groups (P-0.03). Unsuccessful outcomes were associated with co-morbidities (diabetes mellitus and hepatitis B/C), migration, alcohol use, and extrapulmonary TB. Conclusions: For a long time, people with TB/HIV co-infection have been recognized as a “double priority”. Affiliation to key populations accentuates their status to “triple priority”. We advocate for increased attention and equity towards these populations.
Identification of the Tembusu Virus in Mosquitoes in Northern Thailand
Authors: Hamel Rodolphe , Vargas Ronald Enrique Morales , Rajonhson Dora Murielle , Yamanaka Atsushi , Jaroenpool Jiraporn , Wichit Sineewanlaya , Missé Dorothée , Kritiyakan Anamika , Chaisiri Kittipong , Morand Serge , Pompon Julien
Published: June 2023

Among emerging zoonotic pathogens, mosquito-borne viruses (MBVs) circulate between vertebrate animals and mosquitoes and represent a serious threat to humans via spillover from enzootic cycles to the human community. Active surveillance of MBVs in their vectors is therefore essential to better understand and prevent spillover and emergence, especially at the human–animal interface. In this study, we assessed the presence of MBVs using molecular and phylogenetic methods in mosquitoes collected along an ecological gradient ranging from rural urbanized areas to highland forest areas in northern Thailand. We have detected the presence of insect specific flaviviruses in our samples, and the presence of the emerging zoonotic Tembusu virus (TMUV). Reported for the first time in 1955 in Malaysia, TMUV remained for a long time in the shadow of other flaviviruses such as dengue virus or the Japanese encephalitis virus. In this study, we identified two new TMUV strains belonging to cluster 3, which seems to be endemic in rural areas of Thailand and highlighted the genetic specificities of this Thai cluster. Our results show the active circulation of this emerging flavivirus in Thailand and the need for continuous investigation on this poorly known but threatening virus in Asia.
Lack of Evidence for a Role of ACE-2 Polymorphisms as a Bedside Clinical Prognostic Marker of COVID-19
Authors: Fiore Josè R. , Di Stefano Mariantonietta , Oler Andrew , Zhang Yu , Gu Jingwen , Dalgard Clifton L. , Faleo Giuseppina , Epling Brian , Notarangelo Luigi , Lisco Andrea , Santantonio Teresa A.
Published: June 2023

The novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus causes a severe respiratory syndrome referred to as coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) plays an important role as a cellular receptor for SARS-CoV-2 and is largely expressed in lungs, kidneys, heart and the gastrointestinal tract along with being shed in plasma. The ACE-2 gene and protein show a high level of genetic polymorphism, including simple nucleotide variation, transcriptional variation, post-transcriptional changes, and putative protein mutations that could interfere with the binding or entry of SARS-CoV-2 and affect tissue damage in lungs or other organs. Genetic polymorphisms can impact SARS-CoV-2 viral entry and COVID-19 severity. This single-center study evaluated the possible role of the main ACE-2 polymorphisms (rs143936283, rs2285666, rs41303171, rs35803318, and rs2106809) as potential prognostic markers in SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals. Frozen whole blood was used for DNA isolation and genomic DNA samples were sheared using the Covaris LE220 Focused-ultrasonicator for targeting a peak size of 410 bp. Whole-genome sequencing libraries were generated from fragmented DNA using the Illumina TruSeq DNA PCR-Free HT Library Preparation Kit and sequenced on an Illumina NovaSeq 6000. We did not identify any correlation between ACE-2 polymorphisms and COVID-19 prognosis, suggesting that the interpretation and clinical use of ACE-2 genetic polymorphisms in real-world clinical settings requires further experimental and clinical validation.
Expert Consensus: Main Risk Factors for Poor Prognosis in COVID-19 and the Implications for Targeted Measures against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Candel Francisco Javier , Barreiro Pablo , Salavert Miguel , Cabello Alfonso , Fernández-Ruiz Mario , Pérez-Segura Pedro , San Román Jesús , Berenguer Juan , Córdoba Raúl , Delgado Rafael , España Pedro Pablo , Gómez-Centurión Ignacio Alberto , González del Castillo Juan María , Heili Sarah Béatrice , Martínez-Peromingo Francisco Javier , Menéndez Rosario , Moreno Santiago , Pablos José Luís , Pasquau Juan , Piñana José Luis ,   on behalf of the MODUS Investigators (Adenda)
Published: June 2023

The clinical evolution of patients infected with the Severe Acute Respiratory Coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) depends on the complex interplay between viral and host factors. The evolution to less aggressive but better-transmitted viral variants, and the presence of immune memory responses in a growing number of vaccinated and/or virus-exposed individuals, has caused the pandemic to slowly wane in virulence. However, there are still patients with risk factors or comorbidities that put them at risk of poor outcomes in the event of having the coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19). Among the different treatment options for patients with COVID-19, virus-targeted measures include antiviral drugs or monoclonal antibodies that may be provided in the early days of infection. The present expert consensus is based on a review of all the literature published between 1 July 2021 and 15 February 2022 that was carried out to establish the characteristics of patients, in terms of presence of risk factors or comorbidities, that may make them candidates for receiving any of the virus-targeted measures available in order to prevent a fatal outcome, such as severe disease or death. A total of 119 studies were included from the review of the literature and 159 were from the additional independent review carried out by the panelists a posteriori. Conditions found related to strong recommendation of the use of virus-targeted measures in the first days of COVID-19 were age above 80 years, or above 65 years with another risk factor; antineoplastic chemotherapy or active malignancy; HIV infection with CD4+ cell counts < 200/mm3; and treatment with anti-CD20 immunosuppressive drugs. There is also a strong recommendation against using the studied interventions in HIV-infected patients with a CD4+ nadir <200/mm3 or treatment with other immunosuppressants. Indications of therapies against SARS-CoV-2, regardless of vaccination status or history of infection, may still exist for some populations, even after COVID-19 has been declared to no longer be a global health emergency by the WHO.
Targeting Inflammasome Activation in Viral Infection: A Therapeutic Solution?
Authors: Deng Chuan-Han , Li Tian-Qi , Zhang Wei , Zhao Qi , Wang Ying
Published: June 2023

Inflammasome activation is exclusively involved in sensing activation of innate immunity and inflammatory response during viral infection. Accumulating evidence suggests that the manipulation of inflammasome assembly or its interaction with viral proteins are critical factors in viral pathogenesis. Results from pilot clinical trials show encouraging results of NLRP3 inflammasome suppression in reducing mortality and morbidity in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. In this article, we summarize the up-to-date understanding of inflammasomes, including NLRP3, AIM2, NLRP1, NLRP6, and NLRC4 in various viral infections, with particular focus on RNA viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, HIV, IAV, and Zika virus and DNA viruses such as herpes simplex virus 1. We also discuss the current achievement of the mechanisms involved in viral infection-induced inflammatory response, host defense, and possible therapeutic solutions.
Tendon-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (TDSCs) as an In Vitro Model for Virological Studies in Wild Birds
Authors: Rivas José , Dubois Axel , Blanquer Aude , Gérardy Mazarine , Ziegler Ute , Groschup Martin , Grobet Luc , Garigliany Mutien-Marie
Published: June 2023

The use of wild animals in research is complicated due to the capture and housing conditions, as well as to legal aspects, making it difficult to develop in vivo and in vitro models for the study of pathologies that affect these species. Here we validate an in vitro model of tendon-derived mesenchymal cells (TDSC) from Eurasian blackbird (Turdus merula) cadaveric samples. Through the expression of surface markers and the ability to differentiate into multiple lineages, the nature of the cells was confirmed. We then evaluated Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) as an infection model for the Usutu Flavivirus. To this aim, blackbird TDSCs were compared to Vero E6 cells, commonly used in Flavivirus studies. Both cells showed permissiveness to USUV infection as confirmed by immunocytochemistry. Moreover, TDSCs exhibited replication kinetics similar to, although slightly lower than, Vero E6, confirming these cells as a pertinent study model for the study of the pathogenesis of USUV. In this work, we isolated and characterized tendon-derived mesenchymal stem cells, which represent an interesting and convenient in vitro model for the study of wildlife species in laboratories.
Humoral and Cellular Immunity following Five Doses of COVID-19 Vaccines in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alotaibi Abdulmalik S. , Shalabi Heba A. , Alhifany Abdullah A. , Alotaibi Nouf E. , Alnuhait Mohammed A. , Altheaby Abdulrahman R. , Alhazmi Abdulfattah Y.
Published: June 2023

Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients are at increased risk of COVID-19 infection because of their suppressed immunity. The available data show that COVID-19 vaccines are less effective in SOT recipients. We aimed to assess the cellular and humoral immunogenicity with an increasing the number of doses of COVID-19 vaccines in SOT recipients and to identify factors affecting vaccine response in this population. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to identify ongoing and completed studies of humoral and cellular immunity following COVID-19 vaccines in SOT recipients. The search retrieved 278 results with 45 duplicates, and 43 records did not match the inclusion criteria. After title and abstract screening, we retained 189 records, and 135 records were excluded. The reasons for exclusion involved studies with immunocompromised patients (non-transplant recipients), dialysis patients, and individuals who had already recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection. After full-text reading, 55 observational studies and randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were included. The proportion of responders appeared higher after the third, fourth, and fifth doses. The risk factors for non-response included older age and the use of mycophenolate mofetil, corticosteroids, and other immunosuppressants. This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrates the immunogenicity following different doses of COVID-19 vaccines among SOT patients. Due to the low immunogenicity of vaccines, additional strategies to improve vaccine response may be necessary.
Estimating the Cost-Effectiveness of Switching to Higher-Valency Pediatric Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in the United Kingdom
Authors: Wilson Michele , Lucas Aaron , Mendes Diana , Vyse Andrew , Mikudina Boglarka , Czudek Carole , Ellsbury Gillian Frances , Perdrizet Johnna
Published: June 2023

Currently, the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) is administered under a 1+1 (1 primary dose) pediatric schedule in the United Kingdom (UK). Higher-valency PCVs, 15-valent PCV (PCV15), or 20-valent PCV (PCV20) might be considered to expand serotype coverage. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of PCV20 or PCV15 using either a 2+1 (2 primary doses) or 1+1 schedule for pediatric immunization in the UK. Using a dynamic transmission model, we simulated future disease incidence and costs under PCV13 1+1, PCV20 2+1, PCV20 1+1, PCV15 2+1, and PCV15 1+1 schedules from the UK National Health Service perspective. We prospectively estimated disease cases, direct costs, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Scenario analyses were performed to estimate the impact of model assumptions and parameter uncertainty. Over a five-year period, PCV20 2+1 averted the most disease cases and gained the most additional QALYs. PCV20 2+1 and 1+1 were dominant (cost-saving and more QALYs gained) compared with PCV15 (2+1 or 1+1) and PCV13 1+1. PCV20 2+1 was cost-effective (GBP 8110/QALY) compared with PCV20 1+1. PCV20 was found cost-saving compared with PCV13 1+1, and PCV20 2+1 was cost-effective compared with PCV20 1+1. Policymakers should consider the reduction in disease cases with PCV20, which may offset vaccination costs.
Ultrasonic Signal Time-Expansion Using DAC Frequency Modulation
Authors: Rossi Massimiliano , Frasca Marco
Published: June 2023

Ultrasonic signals can be conveniently recorded using modern high-speed analog-to-digital converters and analyzed through digital signal processing algorithms. Sometimes, in some applications, such as in bioacoustics, it is necessary to convert digital data to analog signals with a special transformation that allows compressing and translating the spectrum toward audible frequencies. The process is called time expansion and can be conveniently achieved by slowing down the frequency clock of a digital-to-analog converter. This paper analyzes in detail the spectral characteristics of a time-expanded signal.
Study on the Prevention and Control of Downhole Debris Flows Based on Disaster Chain Theory
Authors: Niu Xiangdong , Hou Kepeng , Sun Huafen
Published: June 2023

The occurrence of downhole debris flows in caving mines has burst, concealment, and destruction characteristics. This study aimed to investigate accurate prevention and control measures for downhole debris flows. The research background was a downhole debris flow in the Plan copper mine. The disaster chain theory was applied to study prevention and control methods for downhole debris flows. Using a model of source generation, chain breaking, and disaster reduction, we proposed accurate prevention and control measures for downhole debris flow disasters, which prevent and control the downhole debris flows at the source. The results showed that the disaster chain type of downhole debris flow disasters is the compound periodic cycle chain, which has the characteristics of the branch basin chain and the periodic cycle chain. Based on the chain-effect nature of disasters caused by downhole debris flows, active and passive prevention and control methods for downhole debris flow disasters were proposed. The active prevention and control measures for chain breaking and disaster reduction involve isolating the generation conditions from the source, inducing a downhole debris flow disaster. This prevention and control method is difficult to implement during the actual production process. The idea of disaster reduction through passive defensive chain breaking is based on the fact that if the three essential types of conditions for the downhole debris flow formation are not present at the same time, then a disaster accident of a downhole debris flow can be effectively prevented and controlled. Accordingly, the following measures are proposed for preventing and controlling downhole debris flows: (1) reinforcement measures applied to the slope body of the landslide material source in the collapse pit; (2) adopting comprehensive flood control measures such as locking, intercepting, dispersing, draining, and blocking under hydraulic conditions; (3) blocking the formation of the channel by adjusting the ore drawing conditions; (4) addressing the inducing factors by blasting with a small amount of explosive. According to the disaster chain theory, prevention, and control methods for downhole debris flow in caving mines were investigated in this study, which not only broadens the research of the debris flows but also fills the gap in the systematic research on downhole debris flows.
Research on the Coupling Evaluation and Driving Factors of Water–Energy–Carbon in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Liu Jianhua , Pu Lingyu , Huang Liangchao , Shi Tianle
Published: June 2023

Taking 57 prefecture-level cities in the Yellow River basin as a research area, this study evaluates the coupling coordination level of the water–energy–carbon (WEC) system in the Yellow River basin from 2012 to 2021 and explores the driving factors of coupling coordinated development. The study revealed that: (1) the development level of the three subsystems all showed an upward trend. The development level of the carbon system exhibited the highest level. The development index of the carbon and energy systems rose steadily, whereas the development index of the water system fluctuated considerably during the research period, although the magnitude of the fluctuation gradually slowed down. (2) The coupling coordination degree displayed a distribution characteristic of “high in the east and low in the west, high in the south and low in the north”. While the coupling coordination degree improved year by year, the spatial heterogeneity gradually increased. (3) The coupling coordination degree presented a positive correlation, and the agglomeration level was dominated by “high-high” and “low-low” agglomeration types. The “high-high” agglomeration area had a certain degree of spatial mobility, while the “low-low” agglomeration areas showed a tendency for spreading towards the middle reaches of the Yellow River basin. (4) Technological innovation, and the economic basis, had a significant positive impact on the coupling coordinated development, while the industrial structure bias showed a clear inhibitory effect. The positive role of opening up is not yet significant. Meanwhile, the indirect effect of each driving factor was greater than the direct effect.
A Game Lane Changing Model Considering Driver’s Risk Level in Ramp Merging Scenario
Authors: Yang Guo , Liu Shihuan , Ye Ming , Tang Chengcheng , Fan Yi , Liu Yonggang
Published: June 2023

A ramp merging decision as an important part of the lane change model plays a crucial role in the efficiency and safety of the entire merging process. However, due to the inevitability of on-ramp merging, the limitations of the road environment, and the conflict between the merging vehicle and the following vehicle on the main road, it is difficult for human drivers to make optimal decisions in complex merging scenarios. First, based on the NGSIM dataset, a gain function is designed to represent the interaction between the ego vehicle (EV) and the surrounding vehicles, and the gain value is then used as one of the characteristic parameters. The K-means algorithm is employed to conduct a cluster analysis of the driving style under the condition of changing lanes. This paper models the interaction and conflict between the ego vehicle (vehicle merging) and the mainline lagging vehicle as a complete information non-cooperative game process. Further, various driving styles are coupled in the ramp decision model to mimic the different safety and travel efficiency preferences of human drivers. After EV decision-making, a quintic polynomial method with multi-constraints is proposed to implement merging trajectory planning. The proposed algorithm is tested and analyzed in an on-ramp scenario, and the results demonstrate that drivers with different driving styles can make correct decisions and complete the ramp merging. The changing trend of the speed and trajectory tests are also in line with the features of the driver’s driving style, offering a theoretical foundation for individualized on-ramp merging decisions.
An Exploratory Evaluation Case Study on Latinx-Maternal Acceptance Promotion of LGBTQ+ Youth Using Participatory Culture-Specific Intervention Modeling (PCSIM) Methods
Authors: Kiperman Sarah , Brown Nina , Kelly Olivia , Treisman Rebecca
Published: June 2023

Family acceptance is one of the strongest predictors of mental health in youth with diverse sexual orientations and genders (LGBTQ+) In Latinx communities, where the values of familismo, machismo, and religion may present as both strengths and barriers to facilitating family acceptance, culture-responsive programming can encourage LGBTQ+ youth acceptance. This study uses an exploratory evaluation case study design to learn how using participatory culture-specific intervention modeling (PCSIM) methods can facilitate Latinx maternal acceptance of LGBTQ+ youth and to identify the successes and challenges researchers encountered throughout the process to inform future intervention implementation efforts. A total of n = 16 Latinx community members participated in the brief psychoeducational programming. The participants were Latinx women—predominately mothers—and ranged in age from 14 to 55 years old. All the participants spoke Spanish and n = 4 also spoke English. The study presents the PCISM process and mothers’ evaluation of their experience and perceptions using mixed methods. The maternal reports indicated favorable qualitative acceptability and efficacy findings but demonstrated minimal statistical significance. This study conveys how researchers implemented the PCSIM approach to yield brief, culture-responsive programming with Latinx mothers to facilitate their openness towards accepting LGBTQ+ children in their homes and communities. The researchers reviewed how the practices from this current study can be used or amended in future culture-responsive programming that partners with Latinx mothers and community centers collaborating with this community to facilitate acceptance of LGBTQ+ youth to yield more generalizable and sustainable program development.
The Impact on Foster Care Children and Working with Their Families during and after COVID-19
Authors: Crenshaw-Williams Notashia
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this literature review is to inform and examine how foster children were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many children enter and exit the child welfare system every day, and this did not stop due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There were many challenges that ranged from providing adequate services, seeing youth in person, visiting youth in facilities and foster homes, biological parents exercising their rights to visitation, court proceedings, and not to mention the stress for all parties involved, such as the child(ren), biological parents, foster parents, social workers, and other qualified professionals. The child welfare professionals had to figure out how to lessen the impact of trauma by thinking outside of the box until the pandemic was closely controlled and the sense of normalcy was restored.
Temperature and salinity tolerances of juvenile invasive Japanese mystery snails
Authors: Jaishanker Pratyush , Hall-Stratton Daya , Fowler Amy E.
Published: June 2023

The freshwater Japanese mystery snail (Heterogen japonica) was introduced to the United States in the early 1900s and has since established populations throughout the continent. The species has ovoviviparous reproduction (i.e., eggs hatch within the mother and develop inside before being released as juveniles), which is one reason it has been successful. Despite its wide geographic range, little is known about its physiological tolerances. For example, high salinities and temperatures may limit its spread, and determining the species’ tolerance to these environmental factors is crucial to predict its possible range expansion. To test this, 600 juvenile H. japonica (average shell length: 6.0mm, range: 4.5–8.3mm) were collected from 28 females from a lake in Virginia, USA and placed in a fully crossed design to test the interaction between salinity (0.2 and 2 PSU) and temperature (25 °C, 34 °C and 38 °C). Juveniles were monitored for mortality over two weeks. Kaplan–Meier survival analyses determined median survival probabilities, and generalized linear models compared differences in mean survival. All juveniles in 25 °C (except one in 0.2 PSU) survived (N=199/200), and all juveniles in 38 °C died by the end of 14 days (N=200), irrespective of salinity. However, juveniles kept at 38 °C showed higher early (≤4 days) mortality in 0.2 PSU, but lower early mortality in 2 PSU. Importantly, juveniles in 2 PSU survived for ≥2 days (N=294/300) across all temperatures, indicating that there may be scope for expansion through estuaries. Future work should examine temperatures between 34 and 38 °C and salinities above 2 PSU to understand the extent of covariance between salinity and temperature and create mathematical models to estimate survivability and spread.
Which factors influence spatio–temporal changes in the distribution of invasive and native species of genus Carassius?
Authors: Fedorčák Jakub , Križek Peter , Koščo Ján
Published: June 2023

Within the genus Carassius Jarocki, 1822 , the crucian carp (C. carassius L., 1758) occurs naturally in the northern part of Middle Danube Basin (Austria, Morava, Slovakia). This species has the least concern status in this region, but observations in the last decades suggest that it is very close to extinction here. The distribution of crucian carp is limited to a small number of vanishing lentic habitats (oxbow lakes, marshlands). These biotopes are in the last stage of succession due to the drying up of the landscape and a reduction in the creation of new natural alluvial habitats. The non-native cyprinid, C. gibelio (Bloch, 1782), known as gibel carp and Prussian carp, has gradually become eudominant in a wide spectrum of habitats/biotopes since the 1960s Several biological adaptations of non-native species are generally considered the strong basis for the mass spreading in the invaded area. The other side of the expansion of non-native C. gibelio is affected by anthropic activities associated with fish farming, translocation and stocking the fish in open water ecosystems. In this study, we analysed historical scientific data on the distribution of Carassius spp. published from the 19th century to the present from the mentioned areas. The results suggest that the number of records of invasive C. gibelio has gradually increase in rivers, regulated channels and creeks, which could be considered as natural pathways of spreading. However, the presence of invasive C. gibelio in artificial biotopes (fishponds, reservoirs) is continuous from the 1960s. In the area mentioned, the artificial biotopes are managed by national fisheries associations and relate to the historical way of farming in Central and Eastern European countries. To show the current state of the fishing grounds of the Slovak Angling Association, we a created the distribution map based on the Carassius spp. catches recorded in last two decades.
Aliens eating aliens: an introduced amphipod as a potential prey of an invasive rocky shore crab in laboratory experiments
Authors: Spilmont Nicolas , Seuront Laurent
Published: June 2023

Behavioural interactions between introduced predators and introduced prey are still largely underestimated. The present work takes advantage of the co-occurrence of two introduced species, the Asian shore crab Hemigrapsus sanguineus and the amphipod Ptilohyale littoralis, respectively first recorded on rocky shores along the French coast of the eastern English Channel in 2005 and 2016. In this context, the predation by male and female H. sanguineus on P. littoralis was examined under controlled laboratory conditions, by presenting either juveniles of the blue mussel Mytilus edulis or adult P. littoralis to H. sanguineus. We subsequently assessed the potential prey preference of the Asian shore crab for P. littoralis and M. edulis by presenting the two prey items simultaneously in the same proportion. In the absence of choice, male H. sanguineus preyed significantly more on M. edulis than P. littoralis. In contrast, females preyed significantly less on M. edulis than P. littoralis; however, male and female H. sanguineus consumed similar numbers of P. littoralis. When choice was possible between P. littoralis and M. edulis, the crab did not exhibit preference strictosensu for any type of prey. These results suggest that the Asian shore crab cannot be considered as a naive predator when confronted to a newly introduced prey. Our results also suggest that the amphipod P. littoralis did not exhibit any effective antipredator response towards the crab. These observations nevertheless warrant further work on the effects of abiotic factors (e.g. temperature) as well as other biotic interactions (e.g. presence of other prey or predators for H. sanguineus) may have on the observed prey-predator interactions between H. sanguineus and M. edulis and P. littoralis.
ELABORAÇÃO E VALIDAÇÃO DE CARTILHA DE GINÁSTICA LABORAL PARA COLABORADORES DE UMA FÁBRICA
Authors: Da Silva Maria Bruna Madeiro , Leal Natalia Jacinto De Almeida , Lô Bruna Loureiro , Macena Raimunda Hermelinda Maia , Gadelha Raimunda Rosilene Magalhães , Vasconcelos Thiago Brasileiro de
Published: June 2023

Introdução: Os afastamentos de trabalho propiciam desgastes para o funcionário, patrão e para a sociedade. O Brasil gasta anualmente em média 20 milhões de reais com acidentes e doenças laborais. Conscientizar estes colaboradores sobre a prevenção de doenças é de suma importância para a qualidade de vida dos mesmos. Objetivo: Elaboração e validação de uma cartilha com instrução sobre exercícios de ginástica laboral e dicas ergonômicas. Metodologia: Pesquisa-ação, descritiva, na modalidade de educação em saúde, em que foi confeccionada uma cartilha como material de apoio para a promoção de saúde dos trabalhadores, o processo se deu em duas etapas; construção da cartilha e validação da mesma. Resultado: O público alvo mostrou-se interessado em uma cartilha educativa sobre ginástica laboral. Entre as observações dos mesmos, foi enfatizado o uso de ilustrações/fotos na cartilha, com intuito de deixá-la mais compreensível, facilitando a comunicação visual, com o que estava sendo explicado. Após coletados estes dados foi realizada uma busca nas bases de dados; Scielo, Bireme e Pub Med. Conclusão: A cartilha é relevante e se apresenta como novo instrumento para reduzir a incidência de LER/DORT´s no campo da pesquisa.