bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soliton Solutions and Sensitive Analysis of Modified Equal-Width Equation Using Fractional Operators
Authors: Riaz Muhammad Bilal , Wojciechowski Adam , Oros Georgia Irina , Rahman Riaz Ur
Published: August 2022

In this manuscript, the novel auxiliary equation methodology (NAEM) is employed to scrutinize various forms of solitary wave solutions for the modified equal-width wave (MEW) equation. M-truncated along with Atangana–Baleanu (AB)-fractional derivatives are employed to study the soliton solutions of the problem. The fractional MEW equations are important for describing hydro-magnetic waves in cold plasma. A comparative analysis is utilized to study the influence of the fractional parameter on the generated solutions. Secured solutions include bright, dark, singular, periodic and many other types of soliton solutions. In compared to other methods, the solutions demonstrate that the proposed technique is particularly effective, straightforward, and trustworthy that contains families of solutions. In addition, the symbolic soft computation is used to verify the obtained solutions. Finally, the system is subjected to a sensitive analysis. Integer-order results calculated by the symmetry method present in the literature can be addressed as limiting cases of the present study.
Computational Study of Methods for Determining the Elasticity of Red Blood Cells Using Machine Learning
Authors: Molčan Samuel , Smiešková Monika , Bachratý Hynek , Bachratá Katarína
Published: August 2022

RBC (Red Blood Cell) membrane is a highly elastic structure, and proper modelling of this elasticity is essential for biomedical applications that involve computational experiments with blood flow. In this work, we present a new method for estimating one of the key parameters of red blood cell elasticity, which uses a neural network trained on the simulation outputs. We test classic LSTM (Long-Short Term Memory) architecture for the time series regression task, and we also experiment with novel CNN-LSTM (Convolutional Neural Network) architecture. We paid special attention to investigating the impact of the way the three-dimensional training data are reduced to their two-dimensional projections. Such a comparison is possible thanks to working with simulation outputs that are equivalently defined for all dimensions and their combinations. The obtained results can be used as recommendations for an appropriate way to record real experiments for which the reduced dimension of the acquired data is essential.
A Metaheuristics-Based Inputs Selection and Training Set Formation Method for Load Forecasting
Authors: Panapakidis Ioannis , Katsivelakis Michail , Bargiotas Dimitrios
Published: August 2022

Load forecasting is a procedure of fundamental importance in power systems operation and planning. Many entities can benefit from accurate load forecasting such as generation companies, systems operators, retailers, prosumers, and others. A variety of models have been proposed so far in the literature. Among them, artificial neural networks are a favorable approach mainly due to their potential for capturing the relationship between load and other parameters. The forecasting performance highly depends on the number and types of inputs. The present paper presents a particle swarm optimization (PSO) two-step method for increasing the performance of short-term load forecasting (STLF). During the first step, PSO is applied to derive the optimal types of inputs for a neural network. Next, PSO is applied again so that the available training data is split into homogeneous clusters. For each cluster, a different neural network is utilized. Experimental results verify the robustness of the proposed approach in a bus load forecasting problem. Also, the proposed algorithm is checked on a load profiling problem where it outperforms the most common algorithms of the load profiling-related literature. During input selection, the weights update is held in asymmetrical duration. The weights of the training phase require more time compared with the test phase.
Stocky/Packed Pancreas: A Case of Focal Drug-Induced Acute Pancreatitis Mimicking Cancer
Authors: Di Serafino Marco , Ronza Roberto , D’Auria Divina , Fiorentino Roberto , Arundine Dario , De Leone Annalisa , Picascia Salvatore , Martino Alberto , Crolla Enrico , Campione Severo , Guida Giovanna , Molino Carlo , Riccardi Ferdinando , Romano Luigia
Published: August 2022

Drug-induced acute pancreatitis (DIP) is a recognised but underreported entity in the literature. Immunotherapy drugs have been described as one possible emerging cause, although the pathogenic mechanism is still largely unclear. To date, only a few cases have been reported, even if in recent times there is an over-increasing awareness of this pathologic entity. The imaging-based diagnosis of DIP can be difficult to establish, representing a real challenge for a radiologist, especially when the inflammatory disease appears as a focal mass suspicious for a malignancy. Case report: We herein report the case of a 71-year-old man with a known history of partially responsive lung adenocarcinoma subtype with high programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, who underwent positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) imaging follow-up after one year of immunotherapy. The exam revealed a stocky/packed lesion in the pancreatic body, with increased 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) accumulation highly suggestive of pancreatic cancer, which finally was proven to be a DIP induced by immunotherapy. Conclusion: Distinguishing between focal DIP and pancreatic neoplasm is, therefore, crucial for timely therapeutic management and prognostic stratification. A deep knowledge of possible imaging pitfalls coupled with a comprehensive clinical and laboratory assessment is pivotal to avoid any delays in diagnosis.
Bites by Non-Native Reptiles in France: Species, Circumstances and Outcome
Authors: Le Roux Gaël , Grenet Guillaume , Schmitt Corinne ,   French Poison Control Centers Research Group, Larréché Sébastien , Descatha Alexis
Published: August 2022

We aimed to make an exhaustive assessment of circumstances of bites by exotic reptiles bred in France. A retrospective observational study was conducted in all the reported cases from 2000 to 2020 in French poison control centers (PCCs). Two hundred and eighteen cases of bites were recorded. The sex ratio (M/F) of the patients was 1.79 and the mean age of the patients was 29.0 ± 15.8 years. Twenty-two cases (10.1%) occurred during the deep night. One hundred and eighty-six bites (85.7%) occurred in a private context; however, there were more cases of high severity when it occurred in a professional setting (60.0% vs. 11.2%, p < 0.01). The feeding/nursing activity accounted for 54.7% cases. Forty-three species of snake were identified; 28 were considered venomous. There were no deaths among the patients in the study. Most of the cases (85.8%) were of mild severity. All of the patients bitten by a venomous reptile were hospitalized: 10 patients received an antivenom; and 2 required surgery. Bites occurred at home and by a small number of popular non-venomous reptile species (pythons and boas, colubrids). These occurred mainly when handling the animals. The rare envenomations were mainly by Asian and American crotalids, followed by elapids. One-third of them were treated with antivenom when available.
Noncompactified Kaluza–Klein Gravity
Authors: Rasouli Seyed Meraj Mousavi , Jalalzadeh Shahram , Moniz Paulo
Published: August 2022

We present a brief description of noncompactified higher-dimensional theories from the perspective of general relativity. More concretely, the Space–Time–Matter theory, or Induced Matter theory, and the reduction procedure used to construct the modified Brans–Dicke theory and the modified Sáez–Ballester theory are briefly explained. Finally, we apply the latter to the Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) cosmological models in arbitrary dimensions and analyze the corresponding solutions.
Construction and Evolution of Equilibrium Configurations of the Schrödinger–Poisson System in the Madelung Frame
Authors: Alvarez-Ríos Iván , Guzmán Francisco S.
Published: August 2022

We present the construction of ground state equilibrium configurations of the Schrödinger–Poisson (SP) system in the Madelung frame and evolve such configuration using finite volume methods. We compare the behavior of these configurations when evolved within the SP and Madelung frames, in terms of conservation of mass and energy. We also discuss the issues of the equations in the Madelung frame and others inherent to the numerical methods used to solve them.
A TaqMan Probe-Based Multiplex Real-Time PCR for Simultaneous Detection of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Subtypes G1 and G2, and Porcine Rotavirus Groups A and C
Authors: Zhang Letian , Jiang Zhiwen , Zhou Zitong , Sun Jiumeng , Yan Shiyu , Gao Wenting , Shao Yuekun , Bai Yuhe , Wu Yifan , Yan Zefei , Sheng Shouzhi , Lai Alexander , Su Shuo
Published: August 2022

Porcine viral diarrhea diseases affect the swine industry, resulting in significant economic losses. Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) genotypes G1 and G2, and groups A and C of the porcine rotavirus, are major etiological agents of severe gastroenteritis and profuse diarrhea, particularly among piglets, with mortality rates of up to 100%. Based on the high prevalence rate and frequent co-infection of PEDV, RVA, and RVC, close monitoring is necessary to avoid greater economic losses. We have developed a multiplex TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR for the rapid simultaneous detection and differentiation of PEDV subtypes G1 and G2, RVA, and RVC. This test is highly sensitive, as the detection limits were 20 and 100 copies/μL for the G1 and G2 subtypes of PEDV, respectively, and 50 copies/μL for RVA and RVC, respectively. Eighty-eight swine clinical samples were used to evaluate this new test. The results were 100% in concordance with the standard methods. Since reassortment between porcine and human rotaviruses has been reported, this multiplex test not only provides a basis for the management of swine diarrheal viruses, but also has the potential to impact public health as well.
Is There Any Correlation between Baseline Serum Cortisol Levels and Disease Severity in PCR-Positive COVID-19 Patients with and without Diabetes Mellitus?
Authors: Keskin Müge , Polat Sefika Burcak , Ates İhsan , İzdes Seval , Güner Hatice Rahmet , Topaloglu Oya , Ersoy Reyhan , Cakır Bekir
Published: August 2022

Background: COVID-19 has caused a pandemic and is associated with significant mortality. The pathophysiology of COVID-19, affecting many organs and systems, is still being investigated. The hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and possibly adrenal glands are the targets of SARS-CoV-2 because of its angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) receptors expression. Hypocortisolemia can be seen in the postinfection period. COVID-19 infection tends to be severe in diabetic patients due to immune dysfunction. In this study, our aim was to investigate the relationship between basal cortisol levels and the course of COVID-19 infection in diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Methods: Our retrospective study included 311 PCR-positive COVID-19 patients over the age of 18 who were hospitalized in Ankara City Hospital Infectious Diseases Department or Intensive Care Unit (ICU) between 15 March 2020 and 15 May 2020. Serum basal cortisol, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), HbA1c values, and diabetes history were recorded within the first 24 h of hospitalization. The presence of pulmonary involvement was noted from the patients’ imaging records. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, patients with chronic liver disease or chronic kidney disease, and patients who were already using steroids or had started COVID-19 infection treatment within the 72 h before blood collection were excluded from the study. Results: Of the 311 patients, 100 had Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2D), while 211 did not. The age, serum basal cortisol, and glucose levels of the patients with T2D (64.51 ± 12.29, 19.5 ± 13.12, and 143.5 (77–345)) were higher than those of the patients without T2D (46.67 ± 16.38, 15.26 ± 8.75, and 96 (65–202)), and the differences were statistically significant (p = 0.004, p = 0.004, and p < 0.001, respectively). The basal cortisol values of the ICU patients (27.89 (13.91–75)) were significantly higher than those of the ward patients (13.68 (1.48–51.93)) and patients who were transferred to the ICU from the ward due to worsening conditions (19.28 (7.74–55.21)) (p < 0.001 and p = 0.007, respectively). The factors affecting ICU admission were determined to be age, T2D history, basal cortisol, and elevation in FPG using univariate logistic regression analysis. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, age, basal cortisol level, and infiltrative involvement in thorax CT were determined to be the risk factors affecting intensive care admission. Conclusion: High basal cortisol levels in patients with T2D may predict the severity of COVID-19 infection or mortality. Although high basal cortisol levels are among the risk factors affecting ICU admission, patients with COVID-19 should also be evaluated in terms of clinical and laboratory findings and relative adrenal insufficiency.
Pre-Existing Comorbidities Diminish the Likelihood of Seropositivity after SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination
Authors: Amraotkar Alok R. , Bushau-Sprinkle Adrienne M. , Keith Rachel J. , Hamorsky Krystal T. , Palmer Kenneth E. , Gao Hong , Rai Shesh N. , Bhatnagar Aruni
Published: August 2022

Background: The impact of chronic health conditions (CHCs) on serostatus post-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination is unknown. Methods: We assessed serostatus post-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination among fully vaccinated adult residents of Jefferson County, Kentucky, USA, from April 2021 to August 2021. Serostatus was determined by qualitative analysis of SARS-CoV-2-specific Spike IgG antibodies via enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) in peripheral blood samples. Results: Of the 5178 fully vaccinated participants, 51 were seronegative and 5127 were seropositive. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and autoimmune disease showed the highest association with negative serostatus in fully vaccinated individuals. The absence of any CHC was strongly associated with positive serostatus. The risk of negative serostatus increased as the total number of pre-existing CHCs increased. Similarly, the use of two or more CHC-related medications was associated with seronegative status. Conclusions: The presence of any CHC, especially CKD or autoimmune disease, increased the likelihood of seronegative status among individuals who were fully vaccinated to SAR-CoV-2. This risk increased with a concurrent increase in number of comorbidities, especially with multiple medications. The absence of any CHC was protective and increased the likelihood of a positive serological response. These results will help develop appropriate guidelines for booster doses and targeted vaccination programs.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike Antibody Titers and Neutralizing Antibodies in Vaccinated Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Furukawa Hiroshi , Oka Shomi , Higuchi Takashi , Nakama Moriyuki , Nagai Nobuhiro , Tohma Shigeto
Published: August 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). A serological test is used to assess the efficacy of vaccination. It has been reported that anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) and neutralizing antibody (Ab) levels are lower following vaccination in patients with rheumatic disease. Here, we investigated anti-SARS-CoV-2 S and neutralizing Abs in vaccinated rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in Japan. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S and neutralizing Abs were quantified in 101 RA patients and 117 controls. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S Ab levels were lower in RA patients than both earlier after vaccination in controls (mean RA 324.1 ± 591.8 SDM vs. control 1216.6 ± 854.4 [U/mL], p < 0.0001) and later after vaccination (324.1 ± 591.8 vs. 582.0 ± 415.6 [U/mL], p = 0.0002). The interval between vaccination of the RA patients and serum collection was longer than for controls early after vaccination (142.1 ± 31.6 vs. 98.3 ± 11.2 [days], p < 0.0001), but shorter than the later sample from the controls (142.1 ± 31.6 vs. 257.3 ± 11.2 [days], p < 0.0001). Importantly, anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing Ab titers in RA patients were higher than in either early or later control samples (10.7 ± 4.9 vs. 8.6 ± 6.6 [%], p = 0.0072, and 10.7 ± 4.9 vs. 3.1 ± 3.7 [%], p < 0.0001, respectively). Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S Ab titers in vaccinated RA patients were lower than in controls, but they were influenced by other clinical manifestations. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing Ab levels were independently increased in RA.
Streptococcus pneumoniae Causing Invasive Diseases in Children and Adults in Central Thailand, 2012–2016
Authors: Phongsamart Wanatpreeya , Srifeungfung Somporn , Chatsuwan Tanittha , Rungnobhakhun Pimpha , Maleesatharn Alan , Chokephaibulkit Kulkanya
Published: August 2022

Longitudinal data regarding the serotype distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility of S. pneumoniae-causing invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in developing countries are limited. Our aim was to monitor the antimicrobial susceptibility, serotype distribution, and serotype coverage rates of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) and emerging non-vaccine serotypes (NVT) between 2012 and 2016 in central Thailand. Pneumococcal isolates from sterile specimens of patients, collected within a long-standing collaborative hospital network in central Thailand between 2012 and 2016, were studied. The pneumococcal serotypes included in the 15-valent PCV were identified by the quellung reaction, while the non-PCV15 serotypes were identified by multiplex PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibilities were determined by the microbroth dilution or disk diffusion method. Of the 276 pneumococcal isolates, 129 (46.7%) were from children aged ≤5 years. Only 9.0% of patients with available data received the PCV prior to the onset of the IPD. The most common vaccine serotypes were 6B (17.4%), 19A (13.0%), and 14 (11.2%), respectively. Non-PCV15 serotypes were detected in 27.9%; the most common serotypes were 15B/C (5.1%), 15A/F (4.0%), and 23A (3.6%), respectively. The serotype coverage rates of PCV10 in children aged ≤5 years was 55.8%, and 53.3% across all ages. PCV13 provided similar coverage rates to that of PCV15, 71.3% in children aged ≤5 years, and 72.1% across all ages. High susceptibilities to cefotaxime (94.6%), ofloxacin (98.2%), linezolid (99.6%), and vancomycin (100.0%) were observed, while the susceptibility to erythromycin (50.0%), TMP-SMZ (41.3%), and tetracycline (27.2%) were low. The susceptibilities to penicillin, meropenem, and clindamycin were 85.9%, 85.9%, and 84.8%, respectively. Serotype 19A was associated with a lower susceptibility than the non-19A isolates for penicillin (75.0% vs. 87.5%, p = 0.045), meropenem (52.8% vs. 90.8%, p < 0.001), erythromycin (33.3% vs. 53.8%, p = 0.022), and TMP-SMZ (16.7% vs. 45.0%, p = 0.001). Although the majority of the pneumococcal serotypes causing IPD in central Thailand were covered by the currently available PCVs, 25% of IPD were caused by NVT. Several emerging NVT identified were 15B/C, 15A/F, and 23A. The high rates of resistance to penicillin, meropenem, erythromycin, TMP-SMZ, and tetracycline observed is a major concern. Serotype 19A was associated with lower antimicrobial susceptibilities in comparison to the non-19A serotypes.
Malignant Catarrhal Fever in Sardinia (Italy): A Case Report
Authors: Coradduzza Elisabetta , Scivoli Rosario , Pintus Davide , Rocchigiani Angela Maria , Cancedda Maria Giovanna , Sanna Daria , Macciocu Simona , Scarpa Fabio , Bechere Roberto , Puggioni Giantonella , Ligios Ciriaco
Published: August 2022

Using a multidisciplinary approach, this report describes a clinical case of malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) occurring in a calf, which shared the pasture with sheep on a farm located in the island of Sardinia (Italy). We confirmed the conventional clinico-histopathological features of MCF, as well was the presence of Ovine herpesvirus type 2 (OvHV-2) DNA in several tissues, employing histological and virological investigations. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that this Sardinian OvHV-2 strain is genetically similar to all the other Italian strains. By Real Time PCR examinations of blood samples collected across Sardinia’s sheep population, which is considered the most important reservoir species, we discovered an OvHV-2 prevalence ranging from 20 to 30 percent. Despite the high prevalence of OvHV-2 in the Sardinian sheep population, clinical disease in bovine remains sporadic; further investigations are needed to understand the risk factors that regulate this epidemiological aspect.
First Report of ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haematomacacae’ in Laboratory-Kept Rhesus Monkeys (Macaca mulatta) Maintained in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Mongruel Anna Claudia Baumel , Somma André Tavares , Pinto Ana Cristina Araújo , Campos Carla de Freitas , Calado Mônica Ingeborg Zuege , Montiani-Ferreira Fabiano , Vieira Thállitha Samih Wischral Jayme , Vieira Rafael Felipe da Costa
Published: August 2022

Health monitoring programs in animals used as experimental models are essential, since only disease-free subjects are considered suitable for research purposes. In laboratory-kept animals, hemoplasmas have been described as an important confounding variable. Different hemoplasma species have been detected infecting non-human primates (NHP) from Brazil. However, the occurrence of hemoplasma species in laboratory-kept NHP in Brazil has not-yet been assessed. Accordingly, this study aimed (i) to screen laboratory-kept rhesus monkeys for hemoplasmas, (ii) to verify if any of the hemoplasma-positive animals demonstrate hematological abnormalities, and (iii) to assess the genotype diversity of hemoplasma species in NHP from Brazil. Five out of eight (62.5%; 95% CI: 3.05–8.63) rhesus monkeys tested positive for hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. by PCR. Sequencing, phylogenetic, distance, and genotype diversity analyses of partial 16S rRNA gene demonstrate that rhesus monkeys were infected by ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haematomacacae’ (formerly ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemomacaque’). Assessments of partial 16S rRNA diversity of hemoplasma species in NHP suggest that at least four genetically diverse groups may occur in Brazil. Although no hematological abnormalities were demonstrated in rhesus monkeys evaluated herein, future studies are needed to elucidate the influence of ‘Ca. M. haematomacacae’ as a confounding variable on research studies.
Ex-Vivo Evaluation of “First Tip Closing” Radiofrequency Vessel Sealing Devices for Swine Small Intestinal Transection
Authors: Lacitignola Luca , Crovace Alberto , Passantino Giuseppe , Staffieri Francesco
Published: August 2022

This study compared burst pressure (BP), number of activations, and histological assessment of ex vivo swine small intestine loops transected by stapler, a single fulcrum radiofrequency vessel sealing (RFVS) device, and the newly-developed jaws RFVS. Fifty (n = 50) 20 cm long jejunal loops were randomly assigned to be transected with RFVS devices and linear stapler (Caiman5, Caiman Maryland, Caiman12, Ligasure Atlas, and Stapler group as control respectively). Caiman5, Caiman12 and stapler required only one activation to complete the sealing. The mean BP in Caiman5 and Caiman Maryland groups were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than the S group as control and the other RFVS devices studied. RFVS Caiman12 and Ligasure Atlas produced mean BP values that were close to the Control and did not differ between them. The lumen was totally closed in the Caiman12 and Ligasure Atlas groups. The findings of this investigation were promising; we discovered that Caiman12 and Ligasure Atlas produce comparable mechanical capabilities as well as stapled intestinal closure, however Caiman12 need a single activation to complete the transection.
Ecological–Economic Assessment and Managerial Significance of Water Conservation in the Headwaters of the Yellow River
Authors: Wang Danni , Zhao Yuting , Yang Wenxue , Ma Kexin , Hao Tianxing , Zhao Jingwei , Tang Rong , Pu Yanfei , Zhang Xiujuan , Mujtaba Kalhoro Ghulam , Lin Huilong
Published: August 2022

The water conservation function plays a vital role in the land–water cycle. As the “Chinese water tower”, the headwaters of the Yellow River are of great significance to the safety of the Yellow River basin and even the global ecosystem. Taking the grassland ecosystem in the Yellow River source area as the research object, the InVEST water yield model with modified parameters and the ecological value evaluation of the modified equivalent factor method were used to explore the simulated spatio-temporal changes and the value of grassland water conservation from 2001 to 2020. The results show that: (1) the average total amount of water conservation in the source area is 549 × 108 m3, which is 16% of the runoff in the Yellow River basin, with a growth rate of 7.5 mm/year 1 and a contribution rate of 30%; (2) the total ecological value of grassland water conservation in 2020 is USD 340.03 × 108. The proportion of improved grassland in ecological restoration and management is only 0.51%, while the proportion of original alpine meadow reaches 67% and its ecological function and value are irreplaceable; (3) based on the comprehensive indicators of water conservation capacity, value and importance, Qumalai, Chengduo and Maduo counties are ranked as priority areas for the ecological protection of water resources.
Ecological Stoichiometric Changes and the Synergistic Restoration of Vegetation Concrete Restoration Systems under Different Precipitation Conditions
Authors: Li Mingyi , Dong Wenhao , Wang Ran , Li Qixiu , Xu Wennian , Xia Zhenyao , Xiao Hai , Geng Qiming
Published: August 2022

Based on vegetation-soil nutrient monitoring data under different precipitation conditions, this study investigated the impact of precipitation changes on the ecological restoration process of disturbed slopes. Precipitation change, to a certain extent, changed the carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) content and the stoichiometric ratio of the soil–plant system. With the increase of the weekly precipitation from 10 to 20 mm, the C content of Cynodon and Indigofera Amblyantha Craib on each slope gradually increased, increased by 8.69% and 4.28%, respectively, compared with the initial recovery period, and the N/P of Cynodon increased from 3.81 to 4.94, and the N limit gradually decreased, while the limit of P increased continuously. The efficiency of the coordinated utilization of N and P of the Indigofera Amblyantha Craib increased, which had a certain adaptability to changes in precipitation. The C/N and C/P in the soil first increased and then decreased, and reached the peak at the slope of 15 mm precipitation, while the N/P fluctuated around 0.35 overall. N was an important element restricting the growth of grass, while P was an important influencing element limiting the growth of shrubs. This also showed that soil C, N and P had a good promoting effect on plant growth, and the self-regulating nutrient utilization strategies of different growth forms of plants under different precipitation conditions differed. There was a coupling effect in the contents of C, N, P and their stoichiometric ratio in the soil–plant system, and stoichiometry and elastic ecological interactions jointly controlled the supply and demand of elements in the plants, but there was no consistent temporal pattern of nutrient ecological stoichiometric ratio in the plant–soil system during the recovery process, thus requiring further research and evaluation.
Expanding the Irrigated Areas in the MENA and Central Asia: Challenges or Opportunities?
Authors: Abou Zaki Nizar , Kløve Bjørn , Torabi Haghighi Ali
Published: August 2022

Middle Eastern, North African countries (MENA), and Central Asian countries are considered the countries most facing water and food scarcity. The current water exploitation indicates that a few countries are overexploiting their water resources and using the fossil water available. This study reviews each country’s renewable water resources volume and evaluates the resources available to expand the agricultural area. Different scenarios are considered, using both irrigated and rainfed farming options, for concluding the most sustainable farming method in each country. Different scenarios are considered using irrigated and rainfed farming options to recommend the most sustainable farming method for each country. Results show that the countries in the MENA and Central Asia can be divided into three main categories: (1) Countries whose expansion of agricultural area can only be applied by using fossil water resources (Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Libya, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, and Uzbekistan); (2) Countries where the agricultural area can be expanded to a certain limit, by sustainably using both irrigated and rainfed farming (Afghanistan, Algeria, Iran, Palestine, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Morocco, Oman, Syria, Tajikistan, Tunisia, and Yemen); (3) Countries that have enough renewable water resources to farm all their agricultural area (Lebanon, Iraq, Turkey, and Kyrgyzstan). However, the aim of this study and its results are only to assess the renewable water resources available to sustain the increased agricultural water demand by setting aside other agricultural factors that constrain the sector.
Real-Time Properties of Hydraulic Jump off a Tidal Bore, Its Generation and Transport Mechanisms: A Case Study of the Kampar River Estuary, Indonesia
Authors: Wisha Ulung Jantama , Wijaya Yusuf Jati , Hisaki Yukiharu
Published: August 2022

Since the hydraulic jump off a tidal bore in the Kampar Estuary has never been well-described, real-time measurements of hydraulic jump properties are crucial to understanding the tidal bore characteristics. This study aims to determine the real-time properties of a tidal bore generation, hydraulic jump, and transport mechanism in the Kampar River estuary. Tidal harmonic and range are analyzed using least-square-based tidal modeling. The tidal bore height and turbulent velocity records based on ADCP surveys in the estuary and upstream area are used to determine the hydraulic jump properties. Furthermore, an acoustic-based approach is also employed to quantify the suspended sediment concentration and flux during the passage of the bore. Kampar Estuary is predominated by semidiurnal co-tidal components (M2 and S2), where, based on the phase lag magnitude, it is categorized as an ebb-dominant estuary. This finding is proven by the more intense and prolonged ebb phases, especially during spring tidal conditions where the tidal range reaches 4 m. Of particular concern, the tidal bore height declines by 1.5 m every 20 km upstream with an erratic turbulent velocity. A sudden increase in transverse and vertical velocity during the passage of bore (ranging from −0.9 to 0.2 m/s) reflects the potency of sediment resuspension in the surrounding river edge marked by the significant increase in suspended sediment flux of about 3.7 times larger than at the end of the ebb tide. However, long-term measurement and regular bathymetry surveys are crucial to monitor the tidal bore behavior and morpho-dynamics in the Kampar River estuary.
Membrane Fouling Mechanism of HTR-PVDF and HMR-PVDF Hollow Fiber Membranes in MBR System
Authors: Chen Kaikai , Zhao Wei , Xiao Changfa , Zhu Hui , Wang Qiming
Published: August 2022

Membrane fouling has attracted a lot of attention in the membrane separation field. Herein, we selected the homogeneous-reinforced polyvinylidene fluoride (HMR-PVDF) and heterogeneous-reinforced polyvinylidene fluoride (HTR-PVDF) hollow fiber membranes to investigate the fouling mechanism of membranes in membrane bioreactor (MBR) systems. The filtration models, membrane adsorption experiment, and membrane resistance distribution after a long or short time operation were assessed to compare their antifouling properties in order to verify the optimal membrane. The outer surface, shown by an SEM observation of the HMR-PVDF and HTR-PVDF membranes, was rough and smooth, respectively. Moreover, the HMR-PVDF membranes had a higher adsorption capacity than the HTR-PVDF membranes when an equilibrium state was almost 2.81 times that of the original membrane resistance. A cleaning method (mainly physical and chemical) was utilized to illustrate the operational stability of the membranes. In summary, the HMR-PVDF hollow fiber membrane presented better antifouling properties than the HTR-PVDF membranes, which was conducive to industrial implementation.
Inorganic Nitrogen Uptake Characteristics of Three Typical Bloom-Forming Algae in the East China Sea
Authors: Ding Guangmao , Chen Huorong , Gu Haifeng , Zhang Youquan , Li Rongmao , Zhang Shufeng
Published: August 2022

Inorganic nitrogen (N) is an important element for eutrophication and harmful algal bloom (HAB) formation. However, the roles of inorganic N in HAB outbreaks are still unclear. Here, we compared the affinities and abilities for inorganic N uptake and assimilation among three typical bloom-forming algae in the East China Sea (ECS), Skeletonema costatum, Prorocentrum donghaiense and Alexandrium pacificum by investigating the uptake and enzymatic (nitrate reductase (NR) and glutamine synthetase (GS) kinetics for nitrate and ammonia. The Ks of nitrate and ammonium in S. costatum was lower than those in P. donghaiense and A. pacificum. The NR activity of S. costatum and P. donghaiense exhibited a positive relationship with the nitrate concentration, and NR activity of S. costatum was nearly 4-fold higher than that of P. donghaiense at high nitrate concentration. However, the NR activity of A. pacificum could not be detected. The GS activity of three species decreased with the increase of ammonium concentrations, and the highest GS activity was detected in A. pacificum. S. costatum presented the highest affinity for nitrate and ammonium, followed by P. donghaiense and A. pacificum. Moreover, P. donghaiense exhibited the highest affinity for intracellular ammonium. Our results characterized the differences in inorganic nitrogen uptake among the three typical bloom-forming algae, which may contribute to the formation of blooms in the coastal waters of the ECS.
Adsorption of Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) with Varying Hydrophobicity on Macro- and Microplastic Polyvinyl Chloride, Polyethylene, and Polystyrene: Kinetics and Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Tseng Linda Y. , You ChanJu , Vu Cecilia , Chistolini Matthew K. , Wang Catherine Y. , Mast Kristen , Luo Florence , Asvapathanagul Pitiporn , Gedalanga Phillip B. , Eusebi Anna Laura , Gorbi Stefania , Pittura Lucia , Fatone Francesco
Published: August 2022

Microplastic particles are of concern to aquatic environments because their size enables them to be easily ingested by animals and they may become vectors of potentially harmful chemicals. This study focused on understanding the impact of plastic size and plastic types on adsorption and adsorption kinetics of commonly found contaminants of emerging concern (CECs). We exposed macro- and micro-sized polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to six CECs: diclofenac (DCF), atenolol (ATN), ibuprofen (IBU), 4-acetamidophenol (ACE), bisphenol A (BPA), and 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT). Our results showed that the pseudo-first order model described the adsorption kinetics better than the pseudo-second order model. The rate of adsorption ACE onto macro-PS was the fastest rate of adsorption for all CECs and microplastics evaluated. Generally, the mass fraction of CECs sorbed at equilibrium did not depend on the size of the plastic and chemical hydrophobicity. With a relatively low Kow among the CECs studied here, ACE had the most mass fraction sorbed onto all the plastics in this study. DCF was also consistently sorbed onto all the plastics. The mechanism van der Waals interaction may have dominated in all the adsorptions in this study, but π-π interaction could also be a major mechanism in the adsorption of DCF, IBP, and ACE. Fast adsorption of ATN, IBP, and ACE may occur during wastewater treatment, but slow adsorption may still continue in the wastewater effluent. Our study highlights an ecotoxicological concern for plastics being a vector of commonly found CECs that are not highly hydrophobic.
The un role in combating international terrorism: achievements and challenges
Authors: Borisovich-Orishev Aleksandr , Yurievich-Zalysin Igor , Agabala-Mamedov Azer , Yurievich-Alipichev Aleksei , Yurevna-Donskikh Ksenia
Published: August 2022

Terrorism continues to be an urgent international problem, despite a slight decrease in terrorist activity after the military defeat of ISIS * in Syria and Iraq. This article attempts to examine the main areas of the UN counter-terrorist activities in the 2000s. The authors have revealed the importance of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy for intensifying the combat against global terrorism. The content of the institutional reform of the system of UN organizations that counter terrorism is described in detail. A special focus is on the tasks and functions of the Counter-Terrorism Committee, the Counter-Terrorism Center, and the UN Counter-Terrorism Office. Special attention is paid to the analysis of some unresolved problems in the activities of the UN as the center of the combat against terrorism in the world.
Aspects génétiques de l’évolution de l’élevage : une histoire de temps, de moyens et d’organisation sociale
Authors: Verrier Etienne , Ducos Alain
Published: August 2022

Depuis les débuts de la domestication, les humains ont cherché à améliorer les animaux avec lesquels ils vivent, travaillent, et dont ils font commerce. Restée empirique pendant des millénaires et devenue méthodique au XVIIIe siècle, cette activité bénéficie des apports scientifiques de la génétique depuis le milieu du XXe siècle. Cela a entraîné des évolutions spectaculaires de la morphologie, du comportement et de la physiologie des animaux, sur des pas de temps de plus en plus courts. L’intensification de la sélection dans les dernières décennies a répondu aux attentes des filières mais au prix d’évolutions non désirées, comme une certaine dégradation des aptitudes fonctionnelles. Les questions qui se posent au secteur de la sélection animale concernent (i) la préservation de la biodiversité domestique ; (ii) les objectifs de sélection, en lien avec les conditions environnementales et les types de systèmes que l’on souhaite promouvoir, et les limites à poser à la modification du vivant ; (iii) les outils et méthodes à employer ; (iv) la place respective des différents opérateurs. Les réponses relèvent moins de choix techniques que de choix de société.
D’une seule santé à une seule maîtrise : une gestion prévisionnelle des risques en entreprise
Authors: Bolnot François-Henri , Angot Jean-Luc
Published: August 2022

«Une seule Santé » consacre l’unité du vivant : le concept d’interdépendance des santés humaine et animale et de l’environnement, mis à l’épreuve par la pandémie de Covid-19, est au coeur de l’anticipation et de la maîtrise des crises à venir. Une vision holistique dont les principes peuvent être mis en oeuvre dans l’entreprise dans le cadre de la maîtrise opérationnelle des risques : «une seule maîtrise » caractérise une approche intégrative centrée sur la prévention et la notion de respect des personnes, des produits et de l’environnement ; une approche globalisée, intégrée dans la culture de l’entreprise, permettant d’aborder d’éventuelles crises avec plus de sérénité grâce à une gestion prévisionnelle des risques.
Les mycotoxines, facteurs de segregation économique alimentaire
Authors: Montet Didier
Published: August 2022

Les mycotoxines sont responsables de divers effets toxiques, notamment l''induction de cancers et des altérations du tube digestif, rénales, sanguines et nerveuses chez les animaux et les Hommes. Un quart des cultures vivrières mondiales sont affectées par des moisissures productrices de mycotoxines. Le problème des mycotoxines est particulièrement important pour la santé humaine et animale dans les zones tropicales chaudes et humides. Du fait de la mondialisation, l’échange commercial des denrées alimentaires a nécessité la mise en place d’un système de normes sanitaires qui régissent l’acceptation des aliments par les pays importateurs. Alors que les pays développés disposent de nombreuses réglementations sur les mycotoxines et d''une infrastructure bien développée pour faire respecter les normes, les habitants des pays en développement ne sont pas protégés par la surveillance de la qualité des aliments et l''application de normes de sécurité dans leur pays car les coûts d''échantillonnage et d''analyse sont trop importants.
Données et secret professionnel
Authors: Hervey-Chupin Diane
Published: August 2022

Dans le cadre de leur exercice professionnel, les vétérinaires collectent de nombreuses données, et plus spécifiquement, des données cliniques vétérinaires. Leur volume tend à augmenter, du fait de nouvelles pratiques (télémédecine) et de dispositifs nouveaux (objets de santé connectés). Ces données ont une importante valeur médicale mais aussi marchande. Pour protéger ces données, deux régimes de nature différente se superposent, et imposent des obligations aux vétérinaires : l’obligation juridique de respecter le règlement général sur la protection des données («RGPD » ), et l’obligation déontologique au respect du secret professionnel. Mais ces régimes ne s’appliquent pas à toutes les données de santé animale collectées, ni à toutes les personnes les collectant. L’absence de régime spécifique aux données cliniques vétérinaires créé une insécurité juridique pour les vétérinaires, qui risquent de voir leur responsabilité engagée, ainsi que pour les données, qui sont mal protégées de l’intérêt qu’elles suscitent chez les acteurs économiques.
La gingivo-stomatite chronique féline : état des lieux des connaissances
Authors: Boutoille Florian
Published: August 2022

La gingivo-stomatite chronique féline est un syndrome inflammatoire qui évolue vers la chronicité et rebelle aux traitements médicaux. Son étiopathogénie repose sur un état dysimmunitaire buccal responsable d’une incapacité à gérer les agresseurs locaux que constituent principalement le calicivirus et les bactéries parodontales. Les extractions dentaires multiples donnent de très bons résultats dans la majorité des cas. Pour les cas réfractaires aux extractions, plusieurs études montrent des résultats intéressants à partir de traitements complémentaires (interféron, ciclosporine, cellules souches…).
L’élevage pastoral aujourd’hui en France, un atout pour la transition agroécologique
Authors: Nozières Marie-Odile , Launay Fabienne , Etienne Laura , Moulin Charles-Henri
Published: August 2022

L’élevage pastoral s’organise autour de la pratique du pâturage sur des surfaces de végétations spontanées. Il revêt des formes diverses du fait de la plus ou moins grande importance de la part de la végétation spontanée dans l’alimentation du troupeau, ce qui le conduit à être qualifié d’agropastoral. Les grands traits communs des élevages pastoraux ont été identifiés et discutés avec les partenaires de l’Unité Mixte Technologique «Élevages pastoraux en territoires méditerranéens » , dite UMT Pasto, lors d’une journée de travail en janvier 2020 et sont présentés ici. Caractérisés par une emprise territoriale forte, une grande diversité de formes et une relative dynamique par rapport à d’autres secteurs agricoles français, ces élevages présentent d’indéniables atouts au regard des enjeux de transition agro-écologique que l’élevage français doit prendre en charge, et font face à des défis qui nécessitent un accompagnement spécifique. Ainsi, cette activité productive contribue par la fourniture de produits d’élevage à l’élaboration du revenu des éleveurs. Elle reste fortement dépendante des subventions. Exercée par des personnes passionnées par cette forme d’élevage, elle nécessite des savoir-faire et des compétences spécifiques. Cet élevage peu artificialisé pour lequel l’adaptabilité est une capacité intrinsèque valorise des espaces remarquables.
La transhumance : actualités et avenir d’une pratique millénaire
Authors: Dumon Christian
Published: August 2022

Forme particulière de l’agropastoralisme, la transhumance, pratiquée dans les six massifs montagneux français est nécessaire à la viabilité de l’immense majorité des 40 000 exploitations agricoles qui déplacent chaque année environ 3,3 millions d’animaux pour assurer grâce à elle leur alimentation. Il s’agit d’une tradition millénaire qui fait aujourd’hui l’objet d’une perception sociétale ambigüe. Archaïque et nuisible à l’environnement pour certains, elle est perçue par d’autres comme une activité qu’il faut absolument soutenir et valoriser pour maintenir une économie dans les territoires défavorisés de montagnes et participer ainsi à la limitation de l’exode rural. Après une appréciation de son actualité seront présentés les enjeux auxquels la transhumance est confrontée avec ses atouts et ses fragilités qui détermineront son avenir.
EVALUACIÓN DE NANOFILTROS CON DIATOMITA PARA LA REMOCIÓN DE CADMIO EN MUESTRAS DE AGUA DEL RÍO TAMBO-AREQUIPA
Authors:   Chemistry Laboratory, Professional School of Environmental Engineering, Universidad Alas Peruanas, Arequipa, Peru., Ramos H. Witney , Delgado-Sarmiento Pavel ,   Thermodinamics Laboratory, Professional School of Chemical Engineering, Universidad Nacional de San Agustín de Arequipa UNSA, Arequipa, Perú.,   Instituto del Gas y del Petróleo, Facultad de Ingenierías de la Universidad de Buenos Aires, UBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina., Miranda R. Lilia ,   Thermodinamics Laboratory, Professional School of Chemical Engineering, Universidad Nacional de San Agustín de Arequipa UNSA, Arequipa, Perú.
Published: August 2022

El cadmio es un metal pesado altamente tóxico con un precio actual de 60 usd/kg, siendo Perú el 8° productor mundial con un rendimiento anual de 771 toneladas métricas en 2019. Su presencia en aguas naturales y de efluentes mineros como iones de Cd (II), es un problema ambiental de magnitud creciente. El estándar de calidad ambiental (ECA) para agua destinada al consumo humano en Perú, Decreto Supremo N° 004-2017- MINAM, señala para el cadmio 0.005 mg/L. Se utilizó diatomita como adsorbente de Cd (II) mediante un proceso de quimisorción. Las pruebas experimentales se realizaron en un sistema batch a partir de aguas obtenidas durante el monitoreo que se hizo en el río Tambo. Las variables independientes susceptibles de medición fueron el pH, la masa del adsorbente y el tiempo de contacto entre las dos fases. A partir del diseño experimental planteado se logró un máximo de remoción de Cadmio (II) de 99,3% en los experimentos 3, 4, 6, 7 y 8 bajo agitación constante de 1400 rpm. Se obtuvo el modelo matemático a partir del diseño factorial 2k de dos niveles y tres factores, con tres repeticiones en el punto central. En la presente investigación se hizo pruebas con Microscopio Electrónico de Barrido (SEM) antes y después de la adsorción. Se comprobó así, que las diatomitas activadas con ácido nítrico al 5% tienen un gran poder de adsorción frente a iones de Cadmio (II).