bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small Object Detection in Medium–Low-Resolution Remote Sensing Images Based on Degradation Reconstruction
Authors: Zhao Yongxian , Sun Haijiang , Wang Shuai
Published: July 2024

With the continuous development of space remote sensing technology, the spatial resolution of visible remote sensing images has been continuously improved, which has promoted the progress of remote sensing target detection. However, due to the limitation of sensor lattice size, it is still challenging to obtain a large range of high-resolution (HR) remote sensing images in practical applications, which makes it difficult to carry out target monitoring in a large range of areas. At present, many object detection methods focus on the detection and positioning technology of HR remote sensing images, but there are relatively few studies on object detection methods using medium- and low-resolution (M-LR) remote sensing images. Because of its wide coverage area and short observation period, M-LR remote sensing imagery is of great significance for obtaining information quickly in space applications. However, the small amount of fine-texture information on objects in M-LR images brings great challenges to detection and recognition tasks. Therefore, we propose a small target detection method based on degradation reconstruction, named DRADNet. Different from the previous methods that use super resolution as a pre-processing step and then directly input the image into the detector, we have designed an additional degenerate reconstruction-assisted framework to effectively improve the detector’s performance in detection tasks with M-LR remote sensing images. In addition, we introduce a hybrid parallel-attention feature fusion module in the detector to achieve focused attention on target features and suppress redundant complex backgrounds, thus improving the accuracy of the model in small target localization. The experimental results are based on the widely used VEDAI dataset and Airbus-Ships dataset, and verify the effectiveness of our method in the detection of small- and medium-sized targets in M-LR remote sensing images.
Attention Mechanism-Based Glaucoma Classification Model Using Retinal Fundus Images
Authors: Cho You-Sang , Song Ho-Jung , Han Ju-Hyuck , Kim Yong-Suk
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a classification model for eye diseases utilizing attention mechanisms to learn features from fundus images and structures. The study focuses on diagnosing glaucoma by extracting retinal vessels and the optic disc from fundus images using a ResU-Net-based segmentation model and Hough Circle Transform, respectively. The extracted structures and preprocessed images were inputted into a CNN-based multi-input model for training. Comparative evaluations demonstrated that our model outperformed other research models in classifying glaucoma, even with a smaller dataset. Ablation studies confirmed that using attention mechanisms to learn fundus structures significantly enhanced performance. The study also highlighted the challenges in normal case classification due to potential feature degradation during structure extraction. Future research will focus on incorporating additional fundus structures such as the macula, refining extraction algorithms, and expanding the types of classified eye diseases.
BY-SLAM: Dynamic Visual SLAM System Based on BEBLID and Semantic Information Extraction
Authors: Zhu Daixian , Liu Peixuan , Qiu Qiang , Wei Jiaxin , Gong Ruolin
Published: July 2024

SLAM is a critical technology for enabling autonomous navigation and positioning in unmanned vehicles. Traditional visual simultaneous localization and mapping algorithms are built upon the assumption of a static scene, overlooking the impact of dynamic targets within real-world environments. Interference from dynamic targets can significantly degrade the system’s localization accuracy or even lead to tracking failure. To address these issues, we propose a dynamic visual SLAM system named BY-SLAM, which is based on BEBLID and semantic information extraction. Initially, the BEBLID descriptor is introduced to describe Oriented FAST feature points, enhancing both feature point matching accuracy and speed. Subsequently, FasterNet replaces the backbone network of YOLOv8s to expedite semantic information extraction. By using the results of DBSCAN clustering object detection, a more refined semantic mask is obtained. Finally, by leveraging the semantic mask and epipolar constraints, dynamic feature points are discerned and eliminated, allowing for the utilization of only static feature points for pose estimation and the construction of a dense 3D map that excludes dynamic targets. Experimental evaluations are conducted on both the TUM RGB-D dataset and real-world scenarios and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm at filtering out dynamic targets within the scenes. On average, the localization accuracy for the TUM RGB-D dataset improves by 95.53% compared to ORB-SLAM3. Comparative analyses against classical dynamic SLAM systems further corroborate the improvement in localization accuracy, map readability, and robustness achieved by BY-SLAM.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Desacetylmatricarin Derivatives Isolated from Basin Big Sagebrush
Authors: Paucar N. Evelin , Leuven Shanae Van , Jesus Karl De , Pashikanti Srinath , Mateen Sameena , Pradhan Samjhana , Sharma Kavita
Published: July 2024

Desacetylmatricarin, a sesquiterpene lactone (SL), is the major component extracted from the aerial parts of basin big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata subsp. tridentata). The medicinal benefits of desacetylmatricarin have not been fully exploited; thus, the current study is an exploratory study to assess its biological activity as a potential source for anti-cancer properties. Herein, we have synthesized desacetylmatricarin derivatives using reported methodologies and examined their anti-cancer properties by submitting the synthesized compounds to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Our previous studies on the evaluation of the biological activity of the SLs isolated from the basin big sagebrush against the NCI-60 cancer cell line screening expanded our work on derivatizing desacetylmatricarin. All of the compounds synthesized from desacetylmatricarin, which was isolated and purified from the basin big sagebrush, were obtained in high yields. The structures of the synthesized desacetylmatricarin derivatives were confirmed by NMR experiments. These compounds were then evaluated against the NCI-60 cancer cell line screening. NCI-60 cancer cell line screening revealed that some of the chemically modified desacetylmatricarin derivatives showed greater biological activity as compared to the natural precursor in a one-dose assay.
Increased Postoperative Glycemic Variability Is Associated with Increased Revision Surgery Rates in Diabetic Patients Undergoing Hip Fracture Fixation
Authors: Ashkenazi Itay , Amzallag Nissan , Factor Shai , Graif Nadav , Shaked Or , Warschawski Yaniv , Ben-Tov Tomer , Khoury Amal
Published: July 2024

Background: An association between increased postoperative glycemic variability (GV) and inferior postoperative outcomes following hip arthroplasty procedures has been previously reported. However, the utilization of the GV to project surgical outcomes following the fixation of hip fractures has not been well established. The aim of this study is to assess the association between the postoperative GV of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and surgical outcomes following the fixation of a hip fracture. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 3117 consecutive cases of patients who underwent the fixation of hip fractures between 2011 and 2020. Patients with a DM diagnosis who had ≥3 postoperative glucose measurements during the first week after surgery and had a minimum of one-year follow-up were included. The coefficient of variation (the ratio of the standard deviation to the mean) was utilized to assess the GV. The final study population included 605 patients who were divided into three groups according to the extent of their GV. Short- and mid-term outcomes, including mortality, reoperations, readmissions, and postoperative infection rates were compared between the groups. Results: There was a non-significant trend towards increased rates of mortality (p = 0.06), readmissions (p = 0.22) and postoperative infections (p = 0.09) in the high GV group. The rate of revisions at the latest follow-up was significantly higher in the high GV group when compared to the two other groups (p = 0.04). Conclusion: For diabetic patients undergoing hip fracture fixation, a higher GV in the postoperative period was associated with increased rates of all-cause revision surgery and may be associated with increased mortality, readmission rates, and surgical site infections. Glucose levels of diabetic patients should be meticulously monitored and controlled in the postoperative period in an effort to contain the sequelae associated with elevated GV and to identify patients in need of closer observation and follow-up.
Hydrochemical Characteristics and Controlling Factors of the Mingyong River Water of the Meili Snow Mountains, China
Authors: Zhao Xiong , Wu Lihua , Dong Zhiwen , Zhang Zichen , Wu Kunde , Wei Aiying , Wang Yanfang
Published: July 2024

The hydrochemical characteristics of rivers are affected by many natural factors, such as the nature of watershed bedrock, watershed environment, vegetation, and human activities. Examining the hydrochemistry of a river can provide insights into the baseline hydrological conditions, the geochemical environment, and the overall water quality of the river. In order to examine the hydrochemical characteristics and controlling factors of the water in the Mingyong River, a total of 154 water samples were gathered from the glacier meltwater, midstream, and downstream regions. Firstly, the findings revealed that the dominant cations are Ca2+ and Mg2+, while the dominant anions are HCO3− and SO42−. The mass concentration order of cations is Ca2+ > Mg2+ > Na+ > K+, and for anions, it is HCO3− > SO42− > NO3− > Cl−. The average concentration of TDS in the river water is 81.69 mg·L−1, with an average EC of 163.63 μs·cm−1 and an average pH of 8.99. Temporal variations in ion concentrations exhibit significant disparities between the glacier melting and accumulation periods. High ion concentration values are primarily observed during the glacier accumulation period, while values decrease during the glacier melting period due to increased precipitation. The river water in the study region is categorized as (HCO3− + SO42−)-(Ca2+ + Mg2+) type. Secondly, the Pearson correlation analysis indicates clear relationships between different parameters, indicating that the major ions were mostly influenced by materials from the Earth’s crust. The primary principal source of solutes in the water of the Mingyong River is rock weathering. The cations and anions present in the river water are derived from the breakdown of carbonate rocks and the dissolving of substances from silicate rocks. However, the influence of carbonate rocks is more significant compared to that of silicate rocks. Finally, the Mingyong River water is suitable for agricultural irrigation with minimal land salinization damage, making it appropriate for agricultural purposes but not suitable for people and animals to drink from directly.
Charting the Course: Navigating Decarbonisation Pathways in Greece, Germany, The Netherlands, and Spain’s Industrial Sectors
Authors: Carmona-Martínez Alessandro A. , Rontogianni Anatoli , Zeneli Myrto , Grammelis Panagiotis , Birgi Olgu , Janssen Rainer , Di Costanzo Benedetta , Vis Martijn , Davidis Bas , Reumerman Patrick , Rueda Asier , Jarauta-Córdoba Clara
Published: July 2024

In the quest for a sustainable future, energy-intensive industries (EIIs) stand at the forefront of Europe’s decarbonisation mission. Despite their significant emissions footprint, the path to comprehensive decarbonisation remains elusive at EU and national levels. This study scrutinises key sectors such as non-ferrous metals, steel, cement, lime, chemicals, fertilisers, ceramics, and glass. It maps out their current environmental impact and potential for mitigation through innovative strategies. The analysis spans across Spain, Greece, Germany, and the Netherlands, highlighting sector-specific ecosystems and the technological breakthroughs shaping them. It addresses the urgency for the industry-wide adoption of electrification, the utilisation of green hydrogen, biomass, bio-based or synthetic fuels, and the deployment of carbon capture utilisation and storage to ensure a smooth transition. Investment decisions in EIIs will depend on predictable economic and regulatory landscapes. This analysis discusses the risks associated with continued investment in high-emission technologies, which may lead to premature decommissioning and significant economic repercussions. It presents a dichotomy: invest in climate-neutral technologies now or face the closure and offshoring of operations later, with consequences for employment. This open discussion concludes that while the technology for near-complete climate neutrality in EIIs exists and is rapidly advancing, the higher costs compared to conventional methods pose a significant barrier. Without the ability to pass these costs to consumers, the adoption of such technologies is stifled. Therefore, it calls for decisive political commitment to support the industry’s transition, ensuring a greener, more resilient future for Europe’s industrial backbone.
The Sustainable Impact of High-Speed Rail Connection on the Local and Neighboring Regions’ Employment: Evidence from China
Authors: Meng Xuechen , Qu Yuezheng , Xu Xiaoshu
Published: July 2024

This paper focuses on the role of high-speed rail (HSR) in promoting talent mobility and explores its heterogeneous impact in the employment distribution of local and neighboring regions. This empirical study uses data from 249 prefecture-level cities across the country from 2005 to 2018, combined with geographic spatial vector data. The results show that HSR connection significantly increases local city employment by 5.99%. This result is robust to a series of robustness tests. Heterogeneity results indicate that HSR connection has a significant positive effect on employment in eastern China and large cities, indicating a significant labor inflow from less-developed areas to more-developed areas. Moreover, HSR has a spill-over effect for employment in cities without HSR stations but within a 70 km radius. This spill-over effect is more salient for cities of medium size and in southern China. The mechanism analysis shows that the positive impact of HSR connection on employment mainly stems from the entry of new firms especially those in high-tech industries. This study not only highlights the important role of high-speed rail in promoting labor mobility and employment distribution but also provides strong evidence and insights on how to meet the demand for professionals in closed-loop system innovation and circular economy practices.
Analyzing the Benefits of Industry 4.0 Technologies That Impact Sustainability 4.0 in Banking Services
Authors: Filgueiras Igor Fellype Loureiro Valenca , de Melo Fagner José Coutinho , Sobral Eryka Fernanda Miranda , Barbosa Aline Amaral Leal , de Medeiros Denise Dumke , de Almeida Pinto Pablo Aurélio Lacerda , Amorim Bartira Pereira
Published: July 2024

The main aim of this paper is to analyze, through the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) methodology, the contextual relationships between the systematization of benefits influenced by Industry 4.0 technologies in the banking services sector from the perspective of Sustainability 4.0. The proposed ISM approach was structured based on 14 benefits capable of influencing Sustainability 4.0 in the services sector through I4.0 technologies. The results showed that Macro (5) and Customer (8) benefits have a direct influence on all other S4.0 benefits in the banking sector. The article presents valuable managerial implications for managers of organizations that intend to or currently use 4.0 technologies in the banking services sector. A priori, the search for economic advantages appears to be a catalyst with greater influence on the model. However, this is not entirely evident, since there appears to be a strong interconnection between social, environmental, and economic benefits. This suggests that the search for other attributes beyond financial aspects can generate advantages for the organization considered essential for the type of business explored.
Smart Manufacturing and Enterprise Breakthrough Innovation: Co-Existence Test of “U-Shaped” and Inverted “U-Shaped” Relationships in Chinese Listed Companies
Authors: Guang Hui , Liu Ying , Feng Jiao , Wang Nan
Published: July 2024

This study, using the Technology Acceptance Model and Innovation Diffusion Theory, utilizes datasets from A-share manufacturing companies listed on China’s stock exchange from 2010 to 2022 to examine the impact of smart manufacturing on the dimensions of enterprise breakthrough innovation and the moderating role of service-oriented transformation. The findings reveal a “U-shaped” relationship between smart manufacturing and the width of breakthrough innovation, and an inverted “U-shaped” relationship between smart manufacturing and the depth of breakthrough innovation. Furthermore, enterprises’ service-oriented transformation positively moderates these relationships. This study is limited by its focus on Chinese listed companies, which may restrict the generalizability of the results to other regions. Future research should consider a broader sample, to validate and extend these findings. Nevertheless, the research findings provide a theoretical basis and practical insights for enterprises’ intelligent transformation and service transformation, promoting enterprise breakthrough innovation.
Inter- and Intra-Driver Reaction Time Heterogeneity in Car-Following Situations
Authors: Tawfeek Mostafa H.
Published: July 2024

This study aims to examine the differences in drivers’ reaction time (RTs) while driving on horizontal curves and straight roadway segments, among different driver classes, and in different driving environments to better understand human driver behavior in typical car-following situations. Therefore, behavioral measures were extracted from naturalistic car-following trajectories to estimate the RT. The RT was estimated for two stimulus–response pairs, namely, the speed–gap and relative speed–acceleration pairs, by using the cross-classification method. The RT was estimated separately for each driver and aggregated based on location and based on driver class. The results reveal that drivers’ RTs on curves are consistently higher than their RTs on straight segments, and this difference is statistically significant. The comparison between normal drivers and aggressive drivers indicates that regardless of the location, aggressive drivers have a significantly longer RT than normal drivers, as aggressive drivers can accept closer gaps and higher relative speed. Also, cautious drivers have a longer RT compared with normal drivers; however, the difference is not significant in most cases. Furthermore, cautious and normal drivers have longer RTs on curves compared with their RTs on straight segments. Additionally, the RT on rural horizontal curves is longer than the RT on urban curves, yet the differences are insignificant.
The Influence of Innovative Resources on the Comprehensive Carrying Capacity of China’s Urban Agglomerations: A System Dynamics Perspective
Authors: Yan Lifang , Ye Wenzhong , Long Hui , Zhang Qiong
Published: July 2024

The sustainable development of urban agglomerations greatly relies on their comprehensive carrying capacity (CCC). As society evolves, innovative resources emerge as core assets and serve as crucial pillars of this capacity. Despite existing CCC studies, the influence of innovative resources remains underexplored. This study analyzes the influence of innovative resources on the CCC of 19 urban agglomerations in China using a system dynamics approach. We find that innovative resources are an important subsystem of CCC. Increasing innovative resources is an effective strategy for enhancing CCC, yet the effects of different types of innovative resources vary. Merely increasing the number of universities and research institutions does not significantly improve the CCC level. Increasing the expenditures of higher education institutions, internal R&D, and the number of patents are effective approaches to enhance CCC. Moreover, these factors can form a virtuous cycle, mutually promoting innovation and CCC development, thus injecting new momentum into the sustainable development of urban agglomerations.
Optimal Design of Air Treatment for an Adsorption Water-Harvesting System
Authors: Zhou Shiyu , Wang Xiaoqian , Jia Hanbing , Liu Jiying
Published: July 2024

In some areas where access to water is difficult, such as arid regions, it is a feasible measure to acquire water from the air. In this context, a system for water harvesting from the air was designed and manufactured. In order to find the optimal operation parameters of the system, the humidity–enthalpy diagram and the dehumidifier computation software (V2.0, Win7) were adopted for the optimization work. The air treatment process of the system was analyzed and calculated by using the professional software provided by the dehumidifier company. Operation modes of ‘powerful mode’ and ‘economic mode’ were defined in the computation work, which are represented by the water production amount and efficiency (water production per power consumption), respectively. According to computation analysis, the relationships between the main performance indicators and the system design/operation parameters were obtained. By considering the heating power limitation of the system, the wheel dehumidifier rotation speed of 8 rph (revolutions per hour), zonal area ratio of Ap/Ar = 2, and the optimal airflow ratios in different relative humidity (RH) environments, together with the outlet air parameter settings of the surface cooler, were finally defined.
An Analytical Framework for Assessing Equity of Access to Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: The Case of Shanghai
Authors: Cai Yuchao , Zhang Jie , Gu Quan , Wang Chenlu
Published: July 2024

With the unprecedented growth of electric vehicles usage, the equitable population-based provision of public charging services has become an important concern in high-density urban centers. To address sustainability concerns, this study explores an analytical framework for assessing the equity of access to public charging services. By comprehensively analyzing factors such as accessibility, the Gini coefficient, the correlation coefficient, and supply–demand matching, we investigated the unequal access to public charging stations within 24 types of sites in central Shanghai. The spatial distribution and accessibility were visualized to illustrate differences in service access. Subsequently, social equity was assessed by considering the population distribution and identifying areas of supply–demand imbalance. The results show that 81% of households share only 10% of public charging services, suggesting a generalized inequality within areas and facilities. Residents of large-scale, low-density, low-grade neighborhoods have difficulties accessing services. Nearly 66.96% of subdistricts have supply and demand conflicts. In addition, priority types of improvement were identified and directions for improvement were suggested, as well as recommendations for the integration of PCSs with exterior built places. We also found significant differences in accessibility and equity at both the district and subdistrict level. The findings of this study will help urban planners assess and locate unequal areas and provide insights and the basis for further expansion into the analysis methods adopted at different stages to achieve sustainable development.
The Incidence and Characteristics of Pelvic-Origin Varicosities in Patients with Complex Varices Evaluated by Ultrasonography
Authors: Yoo Kwon Cheol , Park Hyung Sub , Shin Chang Sik , Lee Taeseung
Published: July 2024

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of gonadal vein refluxes associated with lower-extremity varicose veins with Doppler ultrasonography (DUS). Method: A total of 6279 patients with venous disease-related symptoms of the lower extremity were evaluated with DUS in the vascular lab. Gonadal vein reflux using abdominal ultrasound was further evaluated in patients with unusual varices, defined as varices in the inguinal, inner or upper thigh and the vulvar area without refluxes in the saphenofemoral junction (SPJ). Those patients who showed gonadal vein reflux were diagnosed as having pelvic-origin varicosity. Results: Unusual varices were found in a total of 237 patients (3.8%), and of these patients, pelvic-origin varicosity was discovered with transabdominal ultrasound in 156 (65.8%). A total of 66.7% (n = 38/57) of unusual varix patients with pelvic pain had gonadal vein reflux. The measurement of gonadal vein diameter was larger in ultrasonography than CT scans (8.835 vs. 8.81, p < 0.001). Two patients with severe symptoms but no obstructive venous diseases were treated with gonadal vein embolization. Conclusion: The incidence of pelvic-origin varicosities was 2.5% (n = 156/6279). However, more than half of the patients with unusual varices had gonadal vein reflux and 24.4% of these patients also presented with pelvic pain. The evaluation of pelvic-origin varicosities should be performed in patients who present with unusual forms of varices of the lower extremity.
How COVID-19 Affected Portuguese Travel Intentions—A PLS-SEM Model
Authors: Santos Eulália , Oliveira Margarida Freitas , Tavares Fernando Oliveira
Published: July 2024

COVID-19 was a defining moment of the 21st century, causing major disruptions to tourism and global mobility. Travel patterns have changed significantly, influencing people’s perception of travel. This study aims to explore how COVID-19 affected the travel intentions of the Portuguese. The research is based on a questionnaire administered to 762 individuals, using structural equation modeling with partial least squares. In general, individuals have a reasonable perception of fear of the consequences of COVID-19, risk, and travel behavior and do not appear to have anxiety or fear of traveling. As for their intention to travel, they seem to have intentions. The results of this analysis demonstrate that fear of traveling, and travel behavior directly influence travel intentions and, indirectly, through fear of the consequences of COVID-19, anxiety, fear of traveling, and perceived travel risk. This study is particularly relevant for entities that manage and monitor the travel intentions of their clients and consumers, especially in the travel and tourism sector. It aims to more effectively meet the needs and desires of travelers, in addition to formulating strategies that promote the recovery of tourism in the post-pandemic period. The added value of research lies in its potential to guide strategic decision-making and policy formulation.
Effects of Different Shelling Methods on Data Variability during Field Screening for Reduced Aflatoxin Contamination in Maize
Authors: Adams Alison , Jeffers Daniel , Lu Shien , Guo Baozhu , Williams W. Paul , Fountain Jake C.
Published: July 2024

Non-genetic variation limits the identification of novel maize germplasm with genetic markers for reduced Aspergillus flavus infection and aflatoxin contamination. Aflatoxin measurements can vary substantially within fields containing the same germplasm following inoculation with A. flavus. While some variation is expected due to microenvironmental differences, components of field screening methodologies may also contribute to variability in collected data. Therefore, the objective of this study is to test the effects of three different shelling methods (whole ear (WE), ear end removal (EER), and inoculation site-surrounding (ISS)) to obtain bulk samples from maize on aflatoxin measurements. Five ears per row of three inbred lines and two hybrids were inoculated with A. flavus, then shelled using the three different methods, and aflatoxin was quantified. Overall, EER and ISS resulted in reduced coefficients of variance (CVs) in comparison to WE for both inbred and hybrid maize lines, with two exceptions. Susceptible B73 showed increased CVs with both EER and ISS compared to WE, and resistant Mp719’s EER CVs marginally increased compared to WE. While WE is the standard practice for most breeding programs due to its technical simplicity, EER and ISS may allow for finely phenotyping parental lines for further breeding applications.
Discovery of Novel Viruses in Culicoides Biting Midges in Chihuahua, Mexico
Authors: Laredo-Tiscareño S. Viridiana , Garza-Hernandez Javier A. , Tangudu Chandra S. , Dankaona Wichan , Rodríguez-Alarcón Carlos A. , Adame-Gallegos Jaime R. , De Luna Santillana Erick J. , Huerta Herón , Gonzalez-Peña Rodolfo , Rivera-Martínez Alejandra , Rubio-Tabares Ezequiel , Beristain-Ruiz Diana M. , Blitvich Bradley J.
Published: July 2024

Biting midges (Culicoides) are vectors of many pathogens of medical and veterinary importance, but their viromes are poorly characterized compared to certain other hematophagous arthropods, e.g., mosquitoes and ticks. The goal of this study was to use metagenomics to identify viruses in Culicoides from Mexico. A total of 457 adult midges were collected in Chihuahua, northern Mexico, in 2020 and 2021, and all were identified as female Culicoides reevesi. The midges were sorted into five pools and homogenized. An aliquot of each homogenate was subjected to polyethylene glycol precipitation to enrich for virions, then total RNA was extracted and analyzed by unbiased high-throughput sequencing. We identified six novel viruses that are characteristic of viruses from five families (Nodaviridae, Partitiviridae, Solemoviridae, Tombusviridae, and Totiviridae) and one novel virus that is too divergent from all classified viruses to be assigned to an established family. The newly discovered viruses are phylogenetically distinct from their closest known relatives, and their minimal infection rates in female C. reevesi range from 0.22 to 1.09. No previously known viruses were detected, presumably because viral metagenomics had never before been used to study Culicoides from the Western Hemisphere. To conclude, we discovered multiple novel viruses in C. reevesi from Mexico, expanding our knowledge of arthropod viral diversity and evolution.
HIV Persistence, Latency, and Cure Approaches: Where Are We Now?
Authors: Chou Tessa C. , Maggirwar Nishad S. , Marsden Matthew D.
Published: July 2024

The latent reservoir remains a major roadblock to curing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Currently available antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress active HIV replication, reduce viral loads to undetectable levels, and halt disease progression. However, antiretroviral drugs are unable to target cells that are latently infected with HIV, which can seed viral rebound if ART is stopped. Consequently, a major focus of the field is to study the latent viral reservoir and develop safe and effective methods to eliminate it. Here, we provide an overview of the major mechanisms governing the establishment and maintenance of HIV latency, the key challenges posed by latent reservoirs, small animal models utilized to study HIV latency, and contemporary cure approaches. We also discuss ongoing efforts to apply these approaches in combination, with the goal of achieving a safe, effective, and scalable cure for HIV that can be extended to the tens of millions of people with HIV worldwide.
Description of Sheep Pox Outbreak in Spain in 2022–2023: Challenges Found and Lessons Learnt in Relation with Control and Eradication of This Disease
Authors: Germán Cáceres G. , Luis Romero G. , Sergio Bonilla G. , Fatima Guerrero C. , Manuel Fernandez M. , Jaime Capilla G. , Jesús Tejero C.
Published: July 2024

Sheep pox and goat pox are infectious viral diseases that affect ovine and caprine animals and are caused by two viruses of the family Poxviridae, genus Capripoxvirus. Sheep pox has been traditionally endemic in Africa, the Middle East, and several Southeast Asian countries, but it is considered a transboundary disease capable of affecting previously free countries epidemically. It is a disease of compulsory immediate notification to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and the European Union (EU). On 19 September 2022, the disease reemerged in Spain, which had been free of it since 1968, causing a total of 30 outbreaks until 17 May 2023, when the last outbreak of the disease was reported. The control and eradication measures implemented were those laid down in EU legislation, based on the total stamping out of positive herds, zoning and restriction of movement, and strengthening of biosecurity and passive surveillance. This manuscript describes the outbreak, as well as assesses the challenges and lessons learned in relation to its management, with the aim of helping in the effective management of future outbreaks of this disease.
Epidemiology of Enterovirus Genotypes in Association with Human Diseases
Authors: Xie Zhenfeng , Khamrin Pattara , Maneekarn Niwat , Kumthip Kattareeya
Published: July 2024

Enteroviruses (EVs) are well-known causes of a wide range of infectious diseases in infants and young children, ranging from mild illnesses to severe conditions, depending on the virus genotypes and the host’s immunity. Recent advances in molecular surveillance and genotyping tools have identified over 116 different human EV genotypes from various types of clinical samples. However, the current knowledge about most of these genotypes, except for those of well-known genotypes like EV-A71 and EV-D68, is still limited due to a lack of comprehensive EV surveillance systems. This limited information makes it difficult to understand the true burden of EV-related diseases globally. Furthermore, the specific EV genotype associated with diseases varies according to country, population group, and study period. The same genotype can exhibit different epidemiological features in different areas. By integrating the data from established EV surveillance systems in the USA, Europe, Japan, and China, in combination with other EV infection studies, we can elaborate a better understanding of the distribution of prevalent EV genotypes and the diseases associated with EV. This review analyzed the data from various EV surveillance databases and explored the EV seroprevalence and the association of specific EV genotypes with human diseases.
Development of an Explicit Water Level Pool Routing Method in Reservoirs
Authors: Arrieta-Pastrana Alfonso , Coronado-Hernández Oscar E. , Fuertes-Miquel Vicente S.
Published: July 2024

Local regulations control the additional runoff produced by urbanization processes. Sustainable urban drainage systems can mitigate the issues associated with increased runoff by employing infiltration basins, detention ponds, wet ponds, and constructed wetlands. Traditionally, the Water Level Pool Routing Method, which relies on an implicit calculation scheme, has been used to calculate outflow hydrographs in reservoirs. In this research, an explicit scheme for the Water Level Pool Routing Method has been developed. The proposed model is applied to a case study where the reservoir has a surface area of 9.12 hectares. The influence of weir width and the discharge coefficient is also analyzed. Additionally, the variation in time step does not significantly affect the response of the proposed model, demonstrating its adequacy as a novel method. The proposed model is compared to the traditional method, yielding similar results in an analyzed ornamental reservoir (low percentage reduction in peak flow). However, a case study with experimental data reveals that the proposed model provides better accuracy than the traditional method. In addition, the proposed model is more efficient as it reduces computational time compared to the implicit scheme (conventional method). Finally, the proposed model is simplified for small watersheds by applying the rational method for computing an inflow hydrograph.
Estimation of the Soil–Water Characteristic Curve from Index Properties for Sandy Soil in China
Authors: Wang Shijun , Guo Xing , You Feng , Zhang Zhong , Shen Tianlun , Chen Yuhui , Zhai Qian
Published: July 2024

The soil–water characteristic curve (SWCC) is an important parameter of unsaturated soil, and almost all the engineering characteristics of unsaturated soil are more or less related to the SWCC. The SWCC contains important information for geotechnical engineering, water engineering, hydrogeology modelling and climate modelling. It is noted that the experimental measurement of SWCC is costly and time consuming, which limits the implementation of principles of unsaturated soil mechanics in practical engineering. The indirect method, which estimates the SWCC from the index properties of soil, can provide the SWCC with the errors which are within tolerance in practical engineering. In addition, the indirect method can determine SWCC very fast and almost with no cost. In this paper, the domestic sandy soils are selected and the index properties of those sands are used to correlate the SWCC fitting parameters. Consequently, mathematical equations are proposed to estimate SWCC from index properties of domestic sands. The proposed models are trained from 44 sets of experimental data and verified with another independent 8 sets of experimental data from published literature. It is observed that the results from the proposed model agree well with the experimental data from literature.
The Impact of the Three Gorges Reservoir Operations on Hydraulic Characteristics in the Backwater Region: A Comprehensive 2D Modeling Study
Authors: Xu Yaqian , Yu Shengde , Liu Defu , Ma Jun , Chuo Mingying
Published: July 2024

The Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR), a landmark of human engineering, has significantly altered the hydrodynamics and ecology of its surrounding environment. Our research explores the hydrodynamic and ecological changes in the TGR, focusing on their implications for reservoir-induced water quality and water resource issues. We designed a 2D hydrodynamic and water quality model and implemented 15 operational scenarios with an advanced dynamic storage capacity method for the TGR during flood season, drawdown and impoundment periods. Our simulations well reproduced and predicted water levels, discharge rates, and thermal conditions of the TGR, providing critical insights. The dynamic storage capacity method significantly improved the precision of water level simulations. This approach achieved modeling errors below 0.2 m when compared to real measurements from seven stations. We performed a detailed analysis of the sensitive, sub-sensitive, and insensitive areas during three reservoir operation periods. The drawdown period showed the most extensive impact range (468 km river channel), while the impoundment period had the least impact range (76 km river channel). Furthermore, we quantified the delay of temperature waves during these periods, observing a maximum delay of approximately 120 km and a minimum delay of less than 10 km, which underscores the variability in hydrodynamic responses under different operational scenarios. Our findings reveal the complex sensitivities of the TGR to varied operational modes, aiding in the development of eutrophication and water resources control strategies. Our modeling application provides different operational scenarios and insights for ecological management strategies in large dam systems globally, informing future water resource management and policy-making, ensuring sustainable and effective management of large reservoir systems.
Investigation of the Deformation Behavior of Baffle Structures Impacted by Debris Flow Based on Physical Modelling
Authors: Chen Weizhi , Zhang Bei , Xu Na , Huang Yu
Published: July 2024

The utilization of baffle structures as a highly effective strategy for mitigating debris flow has attracted significant scholarly attention in recent years. Although the predominant focus of existing research has been on augmenting the energy dissipation capabilities of baffle structures, their deformation behavior under impact load has not been extensively investigated. Addressing this research gap, the current study systematically designs a series of physical model experiments, incorporating variables such as baffle height, shape, and various combinations of baffle types to comprehensively analyze the deformation characteristics of baffles subjected to debris flow impact. The experimental results reveal that the deformation of baffle group structures demonstrates a marked non-uniform spatial distribution and exhibits a latency effect. Additionally, distinct baffle configurations show considerable variations in peak strain, suggesting that combining different baffle shapes can not only optimize energy dissipation but also enhance resistance to deformation. Moreover, the relationship between baffle height and the development of deformation in relation to energy dissipation capacity is inconsistent, indicating that deformation must be a key consideration in the design of baffle structures. Consequently, this paper advocates for the formulation of a deformation-based design strategy for baffle structures, with the findings presented herein providing a foundational reference for future studies.
Quantification Assessment of Winter Wheat Sensitivity under Different Drought Scenarios during Growth
Authors: Jiang Shangming , Li Zheng , Yuan Hongwei , Jin Juliang , Xiao Chenguang , Cui Yi
Published: July 2024

To effectively reveal the disaster-causing mechanism between water stress and yield loss under different drought combinations during multiple growth periods of winter wheat, based on biennial wheat drought experiments, a crop growth analysis method was used to quantitatively identify and assess wheat yield loss sensitivity. The results showed that there was a significant negative correlation between the total dry matter relative growth rate (RGR) of wheat and the daily average degree of drought stress. The average determination coefficients of logarithmic fitting for 2017 and 2018 were 0.7935 and 0.7683, respectively. Wheat dry matter accumulation differed under the different drought combination scenarios. The yield loss sensitivity response relationship between the decrease in the RGR of wheat dry matter (relative to no drought stress) and the daily average degree of drought stress could be quantitatively identified by an S-shaped curve, and the 2017 and 2018 average coefficients of determination R2 were 0.859 and 0.849, respectively. Mild drought stress at the tillering stage stimulates adaptability and has little effect on yield. The soil water content (SWC) can be controlled to 65–75% of the field water holding capacity; the SWC at the jointing and booting stage can be controlled to be higher than the field water holding capacity of 55%. The SWC was maintained at a level higher than 75% of the field water holding capacity during the heading and flowering stages and the grain-filling and milky stages to achieve a harmonization of yields and water savings. In addition, during the production process, continuous severe drought during the jointing and booting stage and the heading and flowering stage should be avoided. This study elucidates the response relationship between drought intensity and drought-induced losses from the perspective of physical genesis, provides effective irrigation guidance for regional wheat planting, lays the foundation for the construction of quantitative agricultural drought loss risk curves, and provides technical support for predicting the trend of yield losses in wheat under different drought stresses.
The impact of probiotic supplementation on dental and general health metrics in pediatric populations
Authors: Tropina A. A. , Moseeva M. V. , Matveeva L. P. , Kovylina O. S. , Sterkhova E. V.
Published: July 2024

Relevance. Acute respiratory infections account for over 90% of infectious diseases in children. These children are classified as frequently ill, representing a significant concern in contemporary pediatrics. The presence of odontogenic infections further depletes their immunity and acts as a persistent source of sensitisation for the child's body.

Materials and methods. A clinical-laboratory longitudinal prospective study was conducted on 477 children aged 12 and 15 years. The children were categorised into groups based on their risk of developing caries (minimal, moderate, high). Oral health status was assessed using the DMF index, oral hygiene was evaluated using the OHI-S index, and periodontal tissue condition was assessed using the PMA index. The activity of cariogenic flora aggression enzymes was measured by the level of salivary sialidase. The child's health status was evaluated using the infection index and the recurrence index. The schoolchildren were recommended a course of a preparation consisting of a combination of the probiotic Streptococcus salivarius M18 (at least 5 x 10^8 CFU) and vitamin D3 (320 IU or 8 µg of vitamin D3) at a dosage of one tablet per day, taken sublingually, for two months twice a year.

Results. The study identified moderate correlations between salivary sialidase levels and several indicators, including the gingivitis index, the quantity of dental plaque, and the increase in sialidase activity in saliva. The level of salivary sialidase is regarded as a marker for plaque formation and the extent of periodontal tissue inflammation. Comprehensive oral sanitation, coupled with the strategic use of immunoprophylactic agents, resulted in significant improvements in oral health indicators (OHI-S, PMA, caries reduction) and specific child health metrics (infection index, recurrence index). Additionally, there was a notable reduction in salivary sialidase levels. The method demonstrated the highest efficacy in 12-year-old children who were at high risk of developing caries.

Conclusion. The obtained data should be considered when planning individual therapeutic and preventive measures for schoolchildren with varying risks of developing caries and differing overall health statuses. Probiotic-based preparations should be incorporated into these measures.