bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modularization Design for Smart Industrial Service Ecosystem: A Framework Based on the Smart Industrial Service Identification Blueprint and Hypergraph Clustering
Authors: Chang Yuan , Ming Xinguo , Zhang Xianyu , Bao Yuguang
Published: June 2023

Compared with the conventional industrial product–service system, the smart industrial service ecosystem (SISE) mentioned in this study contains more service activity according to the characteristics of the industrial context, participation of various stakeholders and smart interconnected technologies. This study proposes a detailed modularization design framework for SISE, which can be referenced in various industrial contexts. Firstly, the context-based smart industrial service identification blueprint (SISIB) is proposed to describe the operation model of SISE and identify the service components. The SISIB can ensure that the designers understand the service and work process of the system and improve or carry out the smart industrial service (SIS) component identification. In the case of this article, SIS components from different industrial levels can be systematically identified. Secondly, smart collaboration and sustainable development principles are proposed for measuring the correlation degree among the service components. Considering the complexity and multi-level distribution nature of service components, the hyperedge concept is presented to realize the correlation comparison among the service components, and the evaluation linguistics is applied to handle the decision uncertainties. With this method, the effective correlation comparison between service components can be formed with few hyperedges. Thirdly, the hypergraph clustering theory is applied to define the SISE service module partition. The triangular fuzzy number is first used in hyperedge strength evaluation to comply with the vague linguistics from service design experts. The normalized hypergraph cut principle is realized using the K nearest neighbors (kNN) algorithm, and with this method, the new unified hypergraph and related Laplace matrix can be obtained. Then, the relevant eigenvalue of that Laplace matrix is gained, and the component clustering visualization is realized using the k-means algorithm. After the clustering is performed, several modular design schemes can be gained. In order to select the best modularization scheme, we referenced the modularity concept and realized the quality measurement for the modular design using hypergraph modularity criteria. Regarding these three steps, a detailed modularization case study for a renewable electricity service ecosystem design is presented to verify the viability and feasibility of the study in service modular design. The result showed that the framework in this study can realize the visible and clearance service component identification in a smart connected multi-level industrial context. The modular design scheme based on hypergraph can also achieve high modularity with a more convenient correlation evaluation.
Effectiveness, Problems, and Transformation of Geographical Indications in the Context of Rural Revitalization: Evidence from Pengshui in Chongqing
Authors: Lou Bixian , Fu Xiaopeng , Xue Boyi
Published: June 2023

In China, geographical indications (GIs) are seen as certificates or collective trademarks, as well as representations of quality agricultural products, and are important in revitalizing the countryside. Therefore, a combined qualitative and quantitative method was employed to examine the operational practices of GIs at the relatively micro-level of the municipality in order to identify their effectiveness and challenges in rural revitalization and propose more targeted optimization suggestions. Pengshui Miao and Tujia Autonomous County, located in the Wuling Mountains in southeastern Chongqing, is an excellent example of the positive impact GIs can have on rural development, boasting the highest number of GI trademarks in the region. Despite the large number of GIs in Pengshui, there are several issues that need to be addressed, including low brand awareness, lack of product enhancement, and poor market competitiveness. To overcome these challenges, there must be a shift from a quantity-based to a quality-based approach to GI trademark declarations. This requires promoting the transformation of traditional agriculture into modern agriculture, investing in rural infrastructure, and improving the efficiency and quality of GI product production. By doing so, individuals in the local community will be able to reap the benefits of GI trademarks, improving their income and standard of living. In view of the fact that administrative divisions and cultural regions overlap, it is important to promote interregional cooperation and encourage declarations of GI trademarks in neighboring counties. This will help to preserve the area’s local cultural heritage and promote its heritage through GIs. By taking a targeted approach to GI trademark declarations and promoting cooperation between regions, Pengshui, and other rural communities can maximize the benefits of GIs and support sustainable rural development.
Considerations on the Use of Active Compounds Obtained from Lavender
Authors: Tăbărașu Ana-Maria , Anghelache Dragoș-Nicolae , Găgeanu Iuliana , Biriș Sorin-Ștefan , Vlăduț Nicolae-Valentin
Published: June 2023

Lavender is among the medicinal and aromatic plants with high economic value in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and aromatherapeutic industries, and in its composition has numerous compounds, such as tannins, anthocyanins, minerals, saponins, flavonoids, polyphenols, essential oil and others. The qualitative and quantitative characteristics of lavender are best highlighted by extraction techniques such as hydrodistillation, steam distillation and supercritical CO2 extraction. In the water distillation extraction method, the plants are soaked in water until boiling and steam is released, carrying the essential oils with it, which are then separated via cooling. Steam distillation is one of the most common methods used to extract essential oils from medicinal and aromatic plants. Unlike hydrodistillation, where the water is stored directly in a tank, in this method, the steam is transported into the tank from the outside and the oils are released from the plant components when the steam penetrates the structures that contain it. Essential oils contain essential compounds that have antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-fungal, etc., properties. All the component parts of lavender contain essential oils, which are distributed as follows: in leaves at about 0.4%, in stems at about 0.2%, and in inflorescences at about 2–4.5%.
A Brief Insight into the Toxicity Conundrum: Modeling, Measuring, Monitoring and Evaluating Ecotoxicity for Water Quality towards Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Vilela Paulina , Jácome Gabriel , Moya Wladimir , Ifaei Pouya , Heo Sungku , Yoo Changkyoo
Published: June 2023

In view of the continuous increment of industrial residues, the risk associated with chemical toxicity in the environment has piqued the interest of researchers in pursuit of an alternative methodology for mitigating the apparent toxicity of chemicals. Over the past decade, the applicability of toxicity models and the evaluation of the apparent toxicity of chemicals have been examined for achieving sustainability of the environment and improving water quality. The prediction of toxicant effects with reasonable accuracy in organisms of water bodies and other environmental compartments lies in the application of a chemical toxicity model with further risk assessment analysis. This review summarizes well-known and recent advances of modeling techniques to evaluate and monitor toxicity in the environment. Chemical toxicity models such as the individual-based concentration addition (CA), independent action (IA) and whole-mixture-based concentration addition-independent action (CAIA) are considered, as well as their environmental applications, specific case studies, and further research needs towards sustainability. The gap that needs to be overcome in toxicity studies for the environmental sustainability is noted based on the aspects of environmental chemistry and ecotoxicology, sufficient laboratory equipment, data availability and resources for relevant social parameters needed for investigation.
A Three-Stage Hybrid SEM-BN-ANN Approach for Analyzing Airport Service Quality
Authors: Pholsook Thitinan , Wipulanusat Warit , Thamsatitdej Poomporn , Ramjan Sarawut , Sunkpho Jirapon , Ratanavaraha Vatanavongs
Published: June 2023

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has impacted the aviation industry worldwide. Several restrictions and regulations have been implemented to prevent the virus’s spread and maintain airport operations. To recover the trustworthiness of air travelers in the new normality, improving airport service quality (ASQ) is necessary, ultimately increasing passenger satisfaction in airports. This research focuses on the relationship between passenger satisfaction and the ASQ dimensions of airports in Thailand. A three-stage analysis model was conducted by integrating structural equation modeling, Bayesian networks, and artificial neural networks to identify critical ASQ dimensions that highly impact overall satisfaction. The findings reveal that airport facilities, wayfinding, and security are three dominant dimensions influencing overall passenger satisfaction. This insight could help airport managers and operators recover passenger satisfaction, increase trustworthiness, and maintain the efficiency of the airports in not only this severe crisis but also in the new normality.
Study Variability of the Land Surface Temperature of Land Cover during El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in a Tropical City
Authors: Eboy Oliver Valentine , Kemarau Ricky Anak
Published: June 2023

The World Health Organization has reported numerous fatalities, primarily among urban residents, during El Niño events. This study employed remote sensing technology to investigate the influence of the El Niño Southern Oscillation on temperature. The objective was to analyze the effect of ENSO on temperature across different land cover types using Landsat satellite data. Pre-processing was applied to the satellite data before converting numerical values into surface temperatures. The findings revealed that RS technology effectively captured the impact of varying ENSO intensity levels on surface temperatures. ENSO strength influenced temperature variations in the study areas. During El Niño events, urban areas exhibited higher land surface temperatures compared to vegetation, wetlands, and water bodies, a pattern consistent during La Niña. Specifically, there was a 2.5 °C temperature increase in the urban land cover area during El Niño events between 2016 and 1997. Water bodies, vegetation, and wetlands experienced respective temperature increases of 0.17 °C, 0.17 °C, and +0.7 °C during ONI value 1 events between 2016 and 1997. These findings are crucial for local authorities, providing spatial information on hot spots to enhance vigilance against potential El Niño temperatures.
Relationship of Cooperative Management and Green and Low-Carbon Transition of Agriculture and Its Impacts: A Case Study of the Western Tarim River Basin
Authors: Ran Guangyan , Wang Guangyao , Du Huijuan , Lv Mi
Published: June 2023

Clarifying the relationship between cooperative management and cultivated land use eco-efficiency (LUEE) is of great significance to promoting the green and low-carbon transition of agriculture. To explore the role of cooperative management in the green and low-carbon transition of agriculture of smallholder farmers in the western Tarim River Basin, in this study, based on the field survey data of 444 farmers in 2021, the carbon emissions of cultivated land were used to measure the LUEE with the slack-based model (SBM) with undesirable outputs. Then, propensity score matching (PSM) was used to test the relationship between cooperative management and LUEE. Additionally, the mediating effect of farmers’ green development willingness (FGDW) and the moderating effect of farmers’ part-time off-farm employment (POE) on the relationship was explored. The present study hypothesized that joining cooperatives has an improving effect on the LUEE, which can be achieved by increasing FGDW, and this effect can be enhanced by farmers’ POE. The results show that: (1) The LUEE was generally low (average LUEE value: 0.2678), and there was a significant difference between farmer households (the difference between the maximum and minimum values was as high as 2.8716). (2) Cooperative management had a significant improving effect on the LUEE. The LUEE of cooperative farmers (ACF) increased by 8.6% compared with that of non-cooperative farmers (NACF). (3) Joining a cooperative could improve the LUEE by improving FGDW. (4) POE could enhance the improving effect of cooperative management on the LUEE. Overall, all three hypotheses were supported: cooperative management could achieve scale effects that small farmers cannot achieve, which had a positive effect on improving the LUEE. This study provides a new ecological perspective for the analysis of the relationship between agricultural cooperatives and LUEE and decision-making reference for the rational utilization of cultivated land in northwest China.
Analysis of CO2 Migration in Horizontal Saline Aquifers during Carbon Capture and Storage Process
Authors: Fominykh Sergey , Stankovski Stevan , Markovic Vladimir M. , Petrovic Dusko , Osmanović Sead
Published: June 2023

The storage of CO2 has become an important worldwide problem, considering that an excess of CO2 in the Earth’s atmosphere causes dramatic changes in its climate. One possible solution is to remove the excess of CO2 from the atmosphere, capture it in the process of creation, and store it safely, negating the possibility of its return into the atmosphere. This is the process of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). In the following paper, the authors investigate horizontal saline aquifers and their ability to store CO2. The authors’ application of sensitivity analysis on horizontal migrations uncovered that CO2 permeability and aquifer porosity have a considerable impact on horizontal migrations. During the migration process, CO2 can reach tens of kilometers from its injection point. By introducing effective CO2 density to the conduction velocity term, the authors showcase that the convection-diffusion equation for compressible fluids can be replaced with the equation for incompressible fluids. The buoyancy factor in convective velocity is as density dependent as in conduction velocity. By means of introducing an effective density to the aforementioned term, the process of transport via variable convective velocity can be substituted for a process which is effective, constant, and not density dependent.
Shea Butter Oil Biodiesel Synthesized Using Snail Shell Heterogeneous Catalyst: Performance and Environmental Impact Analysis in Diesel Engine Applications
Authors: Ogunsola Akinola David , Durowoju Modiu O. , Ogunkunle Oyetola , Laseinde Opeyeolu T. , Rahman S. M. Ashrafur , Fattah Islam Md Rizwanul
Published: June 2023

The implementation of biodiesel in internal combustion engines has been observed to enhance engine performance and mitigate the discharge of toxic gaseous emissions from the engine. In this research, Shea Butter Oil Biodiesel (SBOB) was used to operate a diesel engine to analyze the performance and emissions characteristics. Shea Butter Oil Biodiesel (SBOB) was blended with petroleum diesel in ratios 0:100 (B0), 25:75 (B25), 50:50 (B50), 75:25 (B75), and 100:0 (B100). The torque, brake power (BP), and brake thermal efficiency (BTE) of the engine were determined. Gaseous emissions from the engine’s combustion were characterized using the BOSEAN BH-4S portable multi-gas detector, while the organic emissions compositions were detected and quantified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The fuel properties of SBOB and its blends were found to be within the range of acceptable standards. However, the carbon content, sulphur content, heating value, and ash content of the blends decreased from 0.68 to 0.12 wt %, 0.04 to 0.00 wt %, 44.2 to 34.2 MJ/kg, and 0.020 to 0.010 wt %, respectively. The engine torque, brake power, BTE, and engine vibrations were found to reduce when the biodiesel blends were used. Besides the diesel fuel, the biodiesel blend, B25, produced the best engine performance characteristics with 8.50 Nm torque, 1780.95 W BP, and 90.29% BTE. The B100 produced the lowest concentrations of carbon emissions, viz. 520 ppm CO and 1.0% CO2. The NO and NO2 concentrations were found to increase for all the biodiesel blends used. The NO and NO2 concentrations were measured as 230 ppm and 210 ppm for B0, respectively, and 250 ppm and 235 ppm for B25, respectively. The research showed that SBOB has improved engine performance and lowered the emissions profile of CO and CO2 compared with petroleum diesel. The GCMS analysis confirmed that some harmful organic compounds were present in the emissions profile obtained from the exhaust samples of the diesel engine at various compositions.
Engineering Curriculum Reform Based on Outcome-Based Education and Five-Color Psychology Theory
Authors: Hu Ankui , Mao Xianhui , Fu Chenghua , Wu Mengkun , Zhou Shuai
Published: June 2023

Innovation in curriculum design at the system level is crucial for nurturing students’ sustainability skills. This study focuses on the teaching reform of a hydraulic engineering construction and management course, taking a sustainable development perspective and achieving a harmonious integration of knowledge acquisition and skill development. A “One Center, Two Platforms, and Three Education” teaching model is devised, incorporating outcome-based education and five-color psychological theory. This model encompasses a student-centered approach, leveraging the Chaoxing platform and a virtual simulation experiment platform while addressing theoretical, practical, and ideological-political education. The study participants consisted of water and hydropower engineering students at the School of Energy and Power Engineering, Xihua University. This teaching model not only enhances students’ learning motivation but also elevates their academic performance. Moreover, the model has yielded notable improvements in students’ overall quality, independent learning abilities, and innovation aptitude. The effectiveness of this teaching model in engineering courses has garnered positive feedback from both graduates and employers, who acknowledge its contribution to enhancing teaching quality and promoting sustainable development in engineering education. Furthermore, this model can serve as a reference for enhancing college education and fostering students’ abilities and ethical standards.
Main Pathways of Carbon Reduction in Cities under the Target of Carbon Peaking: A Case Study of Nanjing, China
Authors: Chen Mingyue , Zhang Chao , Chen Chuanming , Li Jinsheng , Cui Wenyue
Published: June 2023

As a designated national low-carbon pilot city, Nanjing faces the challenge of reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions while experiencing rapid economic growth. This study developed a localized Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning System (LEAP) model specifically for Nanjing and constructed four different development scenarios. By utilizing the Log Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) decomposition, the Tapio decoupling elasticity coefficient, and comparing the emission reduction effects of individual measures and their cross-elasticity of carbon reduction, this study investigated the key factors and their carbon reduction path characteristics in Nanjing toward its carbon peak target by 2030. The results indicate that: (i) Nanjing could reach its peak carbon target of about 3.48 million tons by 2025 if carbon reduction measures are strengthened; (ii) The main elements influencing Nanjing’s carbon peak include controlling industrial energy consumption, restructuring the industry, promoting the construction of a new power system, and developing green transportation; (iii) Controlling industrial energy consumption and changing industrial structure have a greater impact on reducing carbon emissions than other measures, and both have a synergistic effect. Therefore, Nanjing should prioritize these two strategies as the most effective methods to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, to slow down the growth of urban carbon emissions, policies aimed at reducing the energy intensity and carbon intensity of energy consumption should be formulated. For instance, the integration and innovation of green industries within the city region, such as new energy vehicles, new energy materials, and big data, should be accelerated, and the proportion of clean energy consumption in urban areas should be increased. The LEAP (Nanjing) model has successfully explored Nanjing’s low-carbon pathway and provided policy guidance for the optimal transformation of industrial cities and early carbon peaking.
E-Learning Readiness Assessment Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Zine Mohamed , Harrou Fouzi , Terbeche Mohammed , Bellahcene Mohammed , Dairi Abdelkader , Sun Ying
Published: June 2023

Assessing e-learning readiness is crucial for educational institutions to identify areas in their e-learning systems needing improvement and to develop strategies to enhance students’ readiness. This paper presents an effective approach for assessing e-learning readiness by combining the ADKAR model and machine learning-based feature importance identification methods. The motivation behind using machine learning approaches lies in their ability to capture nonlinearity in data and flexibility as data-driven models. This study surveyed faculty members and students in the Economics faculty at Tlemcen University, Algeria, to gather data based on the ADKAR model’s five dimensions: awareness, desire, knowledge, ability, and reinforcement. Correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between all dimensions. Specifically, the pairwise correlation coefficients between readiness and awareness, desire, knowledge, ability, and reinforcement are 0.5233, 0.5983, 0.6374, 0.6645, and 0.3693, respectively. Two machine learning algorithms, random forest (RF) and decision tree (DT), were used to identify the most important ADKAR factors influencing e-learning readiness. In the results, ability and knowledge were consistently identified as the most significant factors, with scores of ability (0.565, 0.514) and knowledge (0.170, 0.251) using RF and DT algorithms, respectively. Additionally, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values were used to explore further the impact of each variable on the final prediction, highlighting ability as the most influential factor. These findings suggest that universities should focus on enhancing students’ abilities and providing them with the necessary knowledge to increase their readiness for e-learning. This study provides valuable insights into the factors influencing university students’ e-learning readiness.
Impact of Technical Training and Personalized Information Support on Farmers’ Fertilization Behavior: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Baozhi , Guo Bin , Zhu Qibiao , Zhuo Ni
Published: June 2023

Improving farmers’ fertilization behavior through technical training is conducive to reducing agricultural non-point source pollution and maintaining soil health. The existing studies mainly discuss the impact of technical training on the adoption of soil testing formula fertilization (STFF) from the perspective of judging the training effect, but there are few further answers to how to improve the effect of technical training. Based on the theory of planned behavior and training transfer, this study adopted a logit model and OLS model to explore the role of training in the adoption of STFF, as well as the moderation effect of personalized information support. An empirical test was carried out using the survey data of farmers in Zhejiang Province, China. The results showed that participating in technical training is beneficial for farmers in adopting STFF, and receiving personalized information support can strengthen the promotion effect of technical training on the adoption of STFF. Further analysis reveals that there are certain differences in the above relationships among farmers with different operating scales. The findings could facilitate a deeper understanding of the improvement of technical training performance and accumulation of rural human capital and could also provide a useful reference for the policy formulation to optimize farmers’ fertilization behavior and promote sustainable agricultural development.
HbAdrian (α1:c.251del, p.Leu84Argfs*19)—A Novel Pathogenic Variant in the α1-Globin Gene Associated with Microcytosis from the North of Iran
Authors: Jalali Hossein , Karami Hossein , Mahdavi Mahan , Mahdavi Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2023

Background: Alpha thalassemia is one of the most common human genetic abnormalities. More than 400 different variations of the α-globin protein have been introduced, most of which are not associated with noticeable clinical manifestations. The identification of all variants of Hb in different regions helps in acquiring comprehensive knowledge concerning thalassemia disease, and it can be used in preventive programs as well as prenatal diagnosis (PND). Aims: In the present study, we describe a new α1 gene mutation that leads to a frameshift after codon 83. Methods: As a plan for a national screening program of thalassemia, routine cell blood count (CBC) and Hb capillary electrophoresis tests were applied. After taking written informed consent, genomic DNA was extracted, and, for identifying common Mediterranean α-Globin gene deletion, multiplex Gap-PCR was performed; for detecting other mutations on α- and β-Globin genes, a DNA sequencing method was used. Results: The results of CBC and capillary electrophoresis tests showed microcytosis in a female subject. The sequencing of the α-Globin gene showed that the case is heterozygote for a single-nucleotide deletion at codon 83 of the α1-Globin Gene. We named this mutation Hb Adrian (α1: c.251–T), which is a novel mutation. The mentioned mutation was also detected in the subject’s mother. Conclusions: The introduced mutation (Hb Adrian) leads to a frameshift change that produces a protein with 100 amino acids, which in comparison to a normal α-chain is shorter, and its amino acids are altered after codon 83. This hemoglobin is undetectable via the use of electrophoresis. Although no major hematological abnormalities were observed in the carriers, Hb Adrian should be considered in screening programs to help prevent Hb H disease in high-risk couples.
Local Communities’ Perceptions of Tourism Planning in Natural Areas
Authors: Obradović Sanja , Tešin Aleksandra
Published: June 2023

Local communities face a double-edged sword when it comes to tourism development; their attitude directly influences tourism growth and helps spread the word within the community. The local community is increasingly affected socioeconomically by tourism development, which results in the development of attitudes (both positive and negative) based on the perceived effects. This study aimed to investigate the effects of tourism and local support for tourism development in a national park in western Serbia. The data were gathered from locals (580) who reside in the municipality where the national park belongs. Based on their own experiences and their belief that tourism can preserve natural and cultural resources and protect them for future generations, the Tara National Park community was found to favor further tourism development. They disagree that problems would arise from factors often associated with increasing tourism, such as traffic, price increases, or pollution. This study was carried out during the pandemic crisis, which is seen as a paradigm shift in the travel and tourism sectors and offers an opportunity to do better and continue operating in a more sustainable way. Therefore, we propose that these findings be taken into account when developing sustainable tourist management strategies, particularly in national parks and other protected places while respecting the needs and rights of the local people.
Phenylalanine Residues in the Active Site of CYP2E1 Participate in Determining the Binding Orientation and Metabolism-Dependent Genotoxicity of Aromatic Compounds
Authors: Hu Keqi , Tu Hongwei , Xie Jiayi , Yang Zongying , Li Zihuan , Chen Yijing , Liu Yungang
Published: June 2023

The composition of amino acids forming the active site of a CYP enzyme is impactful in its substrate selectivity. For CYP2E1, the role of PHE residues in the formation of effective binding orientations for its aromatic substrates remains unclear. In this study, molecular docking and molecular dynamics analysis were performed to reflect the interactions between PHEs in the active site of human CYP2E1 and various aromatic compounds known as its substrates. The results indicated that the orientation of 1-methylpyrene (1-MP) in the active site was highly determined by the presence of PHEs, PHE478 contributing to the binding free energy most significantly. Moreover, by building a random forest model the relationship between each of 19 molecular descriptors of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) compounds (from molecular docking, quantum mechanics, and physicochemical properties) and their human CYP2E1-dependent mutagenicityas established mostly in our lab, was investigated. The presence of PHEs did not appear to significantly modify the electronic or structural feature of each bound ligand (PCB), instead, the flexibility of the conformation of PHEs contributed substantially to the effective binding energy and orientation. It is supposed that PHE residues adjust their own conformation to permit a suitablly shaped cavity for holding the ligand and forming its orientation as favorable for a biochemical reaction. This study has provided some insights into the role of PHEs in guiding the interactive adaptation of the active site of human CYP2E1 for the binding and metabolism of aromatic substrates.
Validation of a Method Scope Extension for Simple Biomonitoring of 353 Pollutants in Serum Samples
Authors: Rial-Berriel Cristian , Ramos-Luzardo Álvaro , Acosta-Dacal Andrea , Macías-Montes Ana , Fernández-Valerón Pilar , Henríquez-Hernández Luis Alberto , Zumbado Manuel , Boada Luis D. , Luzardo Octavio P.
Published: June 2023

Animals and humans are exposed to various residues that can have a detrimental impact on health, including carcinogenic potential, endocrine disruption, or fatal toxicity. The toxic burden can be evaluated in several biological samples, with serum being one of the preferred and most convenient options. In this study, we have applied and validated a method for detecting several hundred toxins in serum samples. This technique involved a single-step QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe) extraction followed by analysis using gas and liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. With this methodology, we could detect and quantify up to 353 compounds, including persistent organic pollutants (POPs), pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and rodenticides, using just 250 µL of serum. Among them, 92% could be measured at concentrations below 1.25 ng/mL, making it ideal for biomonitoring. We applied this method to samples collected from camels (n = 40) and humans (n = 25). We detected naproxen, ketoprofen, paracetamol, levamisole, and some POPs in these samples. This study validated the ability to simultaneously detect a broad range of compounds in small volumes of serum.
Dominant CT Patterns and Immune Responses during the Early Infection Phases of Different SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Nagaoka Kentaro , Kawasuji Hitoshi , Takegoshi Yusuke , Murai Yushi , Kaneda Makito , Kimoto Kou , Tani Hideki , Niimi Hideki , Morinaga Yoshitomo , Noguchi Kyo , Yamamoto Yoshihiro
Published: June 2023

Ground-glass opacity (GGO) and organizing pneumonia (OP) are dominant pulmonary CT lesions associated with COVID-19. However, the role of different immune responses in these CT patterns remains unclear, particularly following the emergence of the Omicron variant. In this prospective observational study, we recruited patients hospitalized with COVID-19, before and after the emergence of Omicron variants. Semi-quantitative CT scores and dominant CT patterns were retrospectively determined for all patients within five days of symptom onset. Serum levels of IFN-α, IL-6, CXCL10, and VEGF were assessed using ELISA. Serum-neutralizing activity was measured using a pseudovirus assay. We enrolled 48 patients with Omicron variants and 137 with precedent variants. While the frequency of GGO patterns was similar between the two groups, the OP pattern was significantly more frequent in patients with precedent variants. In patients with precedent variants, IFN-α and CXCL10 levels were strongly correlated with GGO, whereas neutralizing activity and VEGF were correlated with OP. The correlation between IFN-α levels and CT scores was lower in patients with Omicron than in those with precedent variants. Compared to preceding variants, infection with the Omicron variant is characterized by a less frequent OP pattern and a weaker correlation between serum IFN-α and CT scores.
Increased Vaccination Diversity Leads to Higher and Less-Variable Neutralization of TBE Viruses of the European Subtype
Authors: Bestehorn-Willmann Malena , Girl Philipp , Greiner Franziska , Mackenstedt Ute , Dobler Gerhard , Lang Daniel
Published: June 2023

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is an infectious disease of the central nervous system. The causative agent is the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), which is most commonly transmitted by tick bites, but which may also be transmitted through the consumption of raw dairy products or, in rare instances, via infected transfusions, transplants, or the slaughter of infected animals. The only effective preventive option is active immunization. Currently, two vaccines are available in Europe—Encepur® and FSME-IMMUN®. In Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, isolated TBEV genotypes belong mainly to the European subtype (TBEV-EU). In this study, we investigated the ability of these two vaccines to induce neutralizing antibodies against a panel of diverse natural TBEV-EU isolates from TBE-endemic areas in southern Germany and in regions of neighboring countries. Sera of 33 donors vaccinated with either FSME-IMMUN®, Encepur®, or a mixture of both were tested against 16 TBEV-EU strains. Phylogenetic analysis of the TBEV-EU genomes revealed substantial genetic diversity and ancestry of the identified 13 genotypic clades. Although all sera were able to neutralize the TBEV-EU strains, there were significant differences among the various vaccination groups. The neutralization assays revealed that the vaccination using the two different vaccine brands significantly increased neutralization titers, decreased intra-serum variance, and reduced the inter-virus variation.
Chemokine Levels among Patients with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Infection
Authors: Alhetheel Abdulkarim , Albarrag Ahmed , Shakoor Zahid , Somily Ali , Barry Mazin , Altalhi Haifa , Bakhrebah Muhammed , Nassar Majed , Alfageeh Mohamed , Assiri Ayed , Alfaraj Sarah , Memish Ziad
Published: June 2023

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality due to intense pulmonary inflammation. Enhanced chemokine-mediated leukocyte infiltration in lungs has been linked with unfavorable outcomes with respect to the disease. This cross-sectional study assessed the levels of chemokines among 46 MERS-CoV-infected patients (19 asymptomatic and 27 symptomatic) and 52 healthy controls using a customized Luminex human chemokine magnetic multiplex panel. The plasma levels of interferon-inducible protein (IP)-10 (568.5 ± 114.7 vs. 55.19 ± 5.85 pg/mL; p < 0.0001), macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1 alpha (MIP-1A) (30.78 ± 2.81 vs. 18.16 ± 0.91 pg/mL; p < 0.0001), MIP-1B (36.63 ± 4.25 vs. 25.26 ± 1.51 pg/mL; p < 0.003), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 (1267 ± 309.5 vs. 390.0 ± 35.51 pg/mL; p < 0.0002), and monokine-induced gamma interferon (MIG) (28.96 ± 3.93 vs. 16.29 ± 1.69 pg/mL; p < 0.001), interleukin (IL)-8 (147.9 ± 21.57 vs. 84.63 ± 10.62 pg/mL; p < 0.004) were significantly higher in symptomatic patients than healthy controls. Likewise, the levels of IP-10 (247.6 ± 80.09 vs. 55.19 ± 5.85 pg/mL; p < 0.0002) and MCP-1 (650.7 ± 149 pg/mL vs. 390 ± 35.51 pg/mL; p < 0.02) were also significantly higher in asymptomatic patients compared to healthy controls. However, no differences were observed in the plasma levels of MIP-1A, MIP-1B, MIG, and IL-8 between asymptomatic patients and uninfected controls. Conversely, the mean plasma levels of regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) (3039 ± 301.0 vs. 4390 ± 223 pg/mL; p < 0.001) and eotaxin (176.9 ± 30.20 vs. 296.2 ± 28.11 pg/mL; p < 0.01) were significantly lower in symptomatic MERS-CoV-infected patients compared to healthy controls. Likewise, the levels of eotaxin (162.7 ± 21.60 vs. 296.2 ± 28.11 pg/mL; p < 0.01) were also significantly lower in asymptomatic patients. Interestingly, the level of MCP-1 (2139 ± 548.2 vs. 776.5 ± 165.3 pg/mL; p < 0.004) was significantly higher in deceased symptomatic patients compared to recovered symptomatic patients. MCP-1 was the only chemokine associated with a higher risk of mortality. Symptomatic MERS-CoV-infected patients had a significant elevation of plasma chemokines and elevated MCP-1 levels were found to be associated with fatal outcomes.
Scale Development for COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy by Integration of Socio-Demographic and Psychological Factors
Authors: Sharma Eliza , Mondal Subhra , Das Subhankar , Vrana Vasiliki G.
Published: June 2023

Vaccination is the most cost-effective way to maintain population health. However, it can only be effective if widespread acceptance is held. The efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines depends on their favor. When countries start to vaccinate their citizens, there is a certain level of skepticism about the effectiveness of the vaccines. The hesitancy study on vaccines has gained momentum following the pandemic. However, few studies have examined the link between the psychological and sociodemographic factors influencing the fit. This paper proposes integrating the concepts of the information systems success and stimulus–organism–response into a cognitive fit theory framework to explore the integration of psychological and sociodemographic factors in the receivers’ reactions (n = 1510). This study analyses the factors that influence the hesitancy of vaccines and the public’s refusal in Asia and Europe. Receivers’ reactions were assessed to various stimuli and we explored the link between psychological and sociodemographic elements and the concept of fit. Two surveys were conducted following the scale development of Mackenzie. The first was to develop the fit scale, while the second was to validate the fit scale. The results of the second survey were analyzed using structural equation modelling. The results indicate that the scale’s fit development is valid and reliable. The quality of the vaccine information, the psychological characteristics of the vaccine system, and vaccine receivers’ satisfaction are also beneficial factors for emotional and cognitive fit. Maintaining the vaccines’ quality and efficiency can help improve the fit between sociodemographic and psychological characteristics. It can also enhance receivers’ satisfaction and encourage continued vaccine administration. This study is regarded as one of the first to examine and develop an emotional and cognitive fit scale for practitioners and researchers.
Impact of Deficit Irrigation on Growth and Water Relations of HLB-Affected Citrus Trees under Greenhouse Conditions
Authors: Kwakye Samuel , Kadyampakeni Davie M.
Published: June 2023

Huanglongbing (HLB) is a citrus disease that affects the growth of the fibrous roots of citrus trees. This means that HLB-affected trees may have reduced root volume and may impact water uptake. A greenhouse study was conducted from October 2019 to July 2021 at the Citrus Research and Education Center (CREC) in Lake Alfred, FL, to evaluate the growth and development of HLB-affected citrus trees under a deficit irrigation system. The objective was to assess the impact of deficit irrigation on tree growth, water availability, stem water potential (SWP), sap flow, and root growth of HLB-affected “cv. Valencia” (Citrus sinensis (L.)) orange trees on ‘Kuharske citrange’ rootstock (Citrus sinensis (L.) × Poncirus trifoliata) using an evapotranspiration (ET)-based irrigation schedule. The study hypothesized that HLB-affected citrus trees require less irrigation water to complete their biological functions than healthy citrus trees because of severe fibrous root loss. A total of 20 potted trees were either HLB-positive or non-HLB-affected, and one-half of the trees were subjected to deficit irrigation (80% ET) and the other half to full irrigation (100% ET). There was no significant difference in tree height in both years between HLB-affected trees irrigated at 80% ET and 100% ET. In general, there was no difference in SWP between the HLB-affected trees subjected to deficit irrigation and full irrigation. At 80% and 100% ET, non-HLB trees had greater sap flow than HLB-affected trees. Sap flow for the periods of March–April and June–July 2021 was comparable between HLB-affected trees at all irrigation rates. Maximum sap flow occurred between 11 and 16 h for HLB-affected trees during the three measurement periods. HLB-affected trees had an average water use of 1.6 mm day−1 compared to 2.1 mm day−1 for non-HLB trees. Healthy trees (non-HLB) used about 20% more water than HLB-affected trees, equivalent to 0.5 mm day−1. Thus, irrigating at 80% ET may be appropriate for achieving water savings in controlled environments for HLB-affected trees without causing water stress. However, since these results were conducted under greenhouse conditions in pots, a follow-up study is needed to validate these results under on-farm field conditions.
Comprehensive Evaluation Method for the Safety State of RCC Dams Based on Interval Number Theory
Authors: Chen Xudong , Xu Peng , Liu Xinyi , Su Chen
Published: June 2023

Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) dams are critical infrastructure, playing an important role in economic and social development. However, dam failure can cause great losses. To mitigate hazards, studies of methods to deal with the uncertainty involved in the comprehensive evaluation process of the safety state of RCC dams are hot issues. Interval number theory is applied to quantify the uncertainty in this study. A comprehensive evaluation indicator system is explored, an approach to allocating the indicator weight rationally is proposed, and a comprehensive evaluation model is established. Comprehensive evaluation standards are developed. An RCC dam in China is used to illustrate the applicability of this comprehensive evaluation method based on interval number theory. The results indicate that the method and models proposed are suitable for comprehensively evaluating the safety state of RCC dams and can be used as a new procedure to monitor the safety of an RCC dam.
Prediction of Current and Future Suitable Habitats for Three Invasive Freshwater Fish Species in Europe
Authors: Artaev Oleg
Published: June 2023

Climate change can have a significant impact on the Earth’s ecosystems. Invasive species will respond to climate change, and their responses will have ecological and economic implications. Habitat suitability models (HSMs) are some of the most important tools currently available for assessing the potential impacts of climate change on species. The projections of a model of suitable conditions for three invasive fish species in Europe, Lepomis gibbosus, Perccottus glenii and Pseudorasbora parva, built using Maxent and based on the occurrence throughout the range (native and invasive), on the current climate of Europe and on the forecast climate data for the 2050s and 2070s in the SSP2 and SSP5 scenarios are presented herein. For Lepomis gibbosus and Pseudorasbora parva, climate change will lead to a significant expansion of their zones, with suitable conditions to the north and east, while the change in suitability in their existing ranges will be moderate. For Perccottus glenii, the zone with suitable conditions will shift northward, with a gradual deterioration in the southern and central parts of its current range and an improvement in the northern part. Thus, at present and until the 2070s, Lepomis gibbosus and Pseudorasbora parva can be considered potentially dangerous invasive species in most parts of Europe, while Perccottus glenii can be considered as such only in the northern part of Europe.
Anaokullarında Görev Yapan Öğretmenlerin Örgütsel Sessizlik Düzeyleri
Authors: DEMİRTAŞ Zülfü , BAYER DEMİRHAN Nejla
Published: June 2023

Bu araştırmanın amacı kamuya bağlı anaokullarında çalışan okul öncesi öğretmenlerinin örgütsel sessizlik düzeylerini ortaya koymaktır. Araştırma betimsel tarama türünde bir çalışmadır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu Malatya il merkezi ve ilçelerinde 2019-2020 eğitim-öğretim yılında faaliyetlerine devam etmekte olan anaokullarının tamamında çalışan öğretmenler oluşturmaktadır. Evren çok büyük olmadığından örneklem alma yoluna gidilmemiş ve evrenin tamamında yer alan öğretmenlerden veri toplanmıştır. Çalışma, Malatya il merkezi ve ilçelerindeki toplam 42 anaokulunda görev yapan 184 öğretmenle yürütülmüştür. Araştırmada veri toplama aracı olarak beş boyut ve 18 maddeden oluşan “Örgütsel Sessizlik Ölçeği” kullanılmıştır. Araştırma bulgularına göre ölçeğin beş boyutunda da anaokulu öğretmenlerinin örgütsel sessizlik algıları orta düzeyde çıkmıştır. En yüksek ortalama “Yönetici” boyutunda, en düşük ortalama “Sessizliğin Kaynağı” boyutunda ortaya çıkmıştır. Demografik değişkenlerden cinsiyet, yaş, meslek kıdemi ve okuldaki hizmet süreleri açısından grup ortalamaları arasında anlamlı farklılık bulunmamıştır. Herhangi bir eğitim sendikasına üye olma değişkeni ise sadece “Okul Ortamı” boyutunda sendika üyesi olanların örgütsel sessizlik algıları üye olmayanlara göre daha yüksek bulunmuştur.
“Çevre Eğitimi” Konusunda Yayınlanan Eğitim Araştırmaları Makalelerinin Bibliyometrik Profili
Authors: BOZDOĞAN Kerem , ŞAHİNPINAR Dilek , KARATEKİN Emrullah
Published: June 2023

Bu çalışmada çevre eğitimine ilişkin akademik makalelerin bibliyometrik parametreler açısından incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Çalışmada nitel araştırma yaklaşımlarından biri olan durum çalışması yöntemi kullanılmış ve bibliyometrik analiz tekniği kullanılmıştır. Bibliyometrik veriler WoS veri tabanından alınmıştır. Verilerin taranma aralığı 1975-3 Mayıs 2021 tarihleri arası olarak sınırlandırılmıştır. Yapılan analizlerden elde edilen sonuçlara göre 1975-3 Mayıs 2021 tarihleri arasında WoS veri tabanında kayıtlı 69.140.265 çalışma tespit edilmiş ve bu çalışmaların 6420 tanesinin çevre eğitimi ile ilgili yapılan çalışmalar olduğu görülmüştür. Bu çalışmalardan 2516 tanesinin eğitim/eğitim araştırmaları kategorisinde yapıldığı belirlenmiştir. Çevre eğitimi ile ilgili en çok yapılan çalışmanın 2255 çalışma ile makale olduğu görülmüştür. Bu makalelerden 1148 tanesinin son beş yılda yayınlandığı belirlenmiştir. Bu oran eğitim/eğitim araştırmaları kategorisinde çevre eğitimi ile ilgili yapılan çalışmaların her geçen yıl daha da arttığına işaret etmektedir. Çevre eğitimi konusunda alana katkı sağlayan 1116 farklı yazar belirlenmiştir. 2255 makalede çevre eğitimi ile ilgili olarak toplamda 1407 farklı anahtar kelimenin kullanıldığı görülmüştür. Çevre eğitimine ilişkin olarak en etkin bilimsel derginin “Journal of Environmental Education” olduğu görülmüştür. Ayrıca alana katkıda bulunan araştırmacıların 68 farklı ülkeden oldukları tespit edilmiştir. Bu kapsamda en aktif ülkenin Amerika Birleşik Devletleri olduğu, bunu sırasıyla Brezilya ve Avustralya’nın izlediği görülmüştür. 88 makale ile Türkiye’nin 68 ülkeden yedinci sırada yer alması, çevre eğitimi alanına ilişkin ilgili önemli çalışmaların yapıldığının bir göstergesidir.