bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological and Mechanical Properties of Electrospun Polycaprolactone Scaffolds: Effect of Applied Voltage
Authors: Can-Herrera L.A. , Oliva A.I. , Dzul-Cervantes M.A.A. , Pacheco-Salazar O.F. , Cervantes-Uc J.M.
Published: February 2021

The aim of this work is to investigate the effect of the applied voltage on the morphological and mechanical properties of electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds for potential use in tissue engineering. The morphology of the scaffolds was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and the BET techniques for measuring the surface area and pore volume. Stress-strain curves from tensile tests were obtained for estimating the mechanical properties. Additional studies for detecting changes in the chemical structure of the electrospun PCL scaffolds by Fourier transform infrared were performed, while contact angle and X-ray diffraction analysis were realized for determining the wettability and crystallinity, respectively. The SEM, AFM and BET results demonstrate that the electrospun PCL fibers exhibit morphological changes with the applied voltage. By increasing the applied voltage (10 to 25 kV) a significate influence was observed on the fiber diameter, surface roughness, and pore volume. In addition, tensile strength, elongation, and elastic modulus increase with the applied voltage, the crystalline structure of the fibers remains constant, and the surface area and wetting of the scaffolds diminish. The morphological and mechanical properties show a clear correlation with the applied voltage and can be of great relevance for tissue engineering.
Bacterial Cellulose Network from Kombucha Fermentation Impregnated with Emulsion-Polymerized Poly(methyl methacrylate) to Form Nanocomposite
Authors: Oliver-Ortega Helena , Geng Shiyu , Espinach Francesc Xavier , Oksman Kristiina , Vilaseca Fabiola
Published: February 2021

The use of bio-based residues is one of the key indicators towards sustainable development goals. In this work, bacterial cellulose, a residue from the fermentation of kombucha tea, was tested as a reinforcing nanofiber network in an emulsion-polymerized poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) matrix. The use of the nanofiber network is facilitating the formation of nanocomposites with well-dispersed nanofibers without using organic solvents or expensive methodologies. Moreover, the bacterial cellulose network structure can serve as a template for the emulsion polymerization of PMMA. The morphology, size, crystallinity, water uptake, and mechanical properties of the kombucha bacterial cellulose (KBC) network were studied. The results showed that KBC nanofibril diameters were ranging between 20–40 nm and the KBC was highly crystalline, >90%. The 3D network was lightweight and porous material, having a density of only 0.014 g/cm3. Furthermore, the compressed KBC network had very good mechanical properties, the E-modulus was 8 GPa, and the tensile strength was 172 MPa. The prepared nanocomposites with a KBC concentration of 8 wt.% were translucent with uniform structure confirmed with scanning electron microscopy study, and furthermore, the KBC network was homogeneously impregnated with the PMMA matrix. The mechanical testing of the nanocomposite showed high stiffness compared to the neat PMMA. A simple simulation of the tensile strength was used to understand the limited strain and strength given by the bacterial cellulose network. The excellent properties of the final material demonstrate the capability of a residue of kombucha fermentation as an excellent nanofiber template for use in polymer nanocomposites.
Bio-Based Hotmelt Adhesives with Well-Adhesion in Water
Authors: Yu Xi , Dong Chuang , Zhuang Wei , Shi Dongjian , Dong Weifu , Chen Mingqing , Kaneko Daisaku
Published: February 2021

We suggest a simple idea of bio-based adhesives with strong adhesion even under water. The adhesives simply prepared via polycondensation of 3,4-dihydroxyhydrocinnamic acid (DHHCA) and lactic acid (LA) in one pot polymerization. Poly(DHHCA-co-LA) has a hyperbranched structure and demonstrated strong dry and wet adhesion strength on diverse material surfaces. We found that their adhesion strength depended on the concentration of DHHCA. Poly(DHHCA-co-LA) with the lowest concentration of DHHCA showed the highest adhesion strength in water with a value of 2.7 MPa between glasses, while with the highest concentration of DHHCA it exhibited the highest dry adhesion strength with a value of 3.5 MPa, which was comparable to commercial instant super glue. Compared to underwater glues reported previously, our adhesives were able to spread rapidly under water with a low viscosity and worked strongly. Poly(DHHCA-co-LA) also showed long-term stability and kept wet adhesion strength of 2.2 MPa after steeping in water for 1 month at room temperature (initial strength was 2.4 MPa). In this paper, Poly(DHHCA-co-LA) with strong dry and wet adhesion properties and long-term stability was demonstrated for various kinds of applications, especially for wet conditions.
Process Characterization of Polyvinyl Acetate Emulsions Applying Inline Photon Density Wave Spectroscopy at High Solid Contents
Authors: Schlappa Stephanie , Brenker Lee Josephine , Bressel Lena , Hass Roland , Münzberg Marvin
Published: February 2021

The high solids semicontinuous emulsion polymerization of polyvinyl acetate using poly (vinyl alcohol-co-vinyl acetate) as protective colloid is investigated by optical spectroscopy. The suitability of Photon Density Wave (PDW) spectroscopy as inline Process Analytical Technology (PAT) for emulsion polymerization processes at high solid contents (>40% (w/w)) is studied and evaluated. Inline data on absorption and scattering in the dispersion is obtained in real-time. The radical polymerization of vinyl acetate to polyvinyl acetate using ascorbic acid and sodium persulfate as redox initiator system and poly (vinyl alcohol-co-vinyl acetate) as protective colloid is investigated. Starved–feed radical emulsion polymerization yielded particle sizes in the nanometer size regime. PDW spectroscopy is used to monitor the progress of polymerization by studying the absorption and scattering properties during the synthesis of dispersions with increasing monomer amount and correspondingly decreasing feed rate of protective colloid. Results are compared to particle sizes determined with offline dynamic light scattering (DLS) and static light scattering (SLS) during the synthesis.
Preservation of Antioxidant Properties of Endemic Dark Corn Using Solar Energy for Nixtamalization
Authors: Servín-Campuzano Hermelinda , González-Avilés Mauricio , Rodríguez-Morales José Ángel , Juárez Marco Antonio Serrato , Castro Jessica Grizzel Maya , Hidalgo Vicente González , García Avilés Martín
Published: February 2021

A comparative study of two corn nixtamalization processes is presented, one in the traditional way of the Michoacan region of Mexico, and the other using solar devices. The corn selected for the process was a nontransgenic endemic dark corn. For the nixtamalization process, a solar concentration oven was used; this process using the solar device is simple and affordable for communities. For characterization, the properties of the antioxidant content of dark corn were analyzed for both processes, and the highest concentration of antioxidants between the two varieties of corn was obtained. The antioxidant capacity in the two varieties of black corn was quantified and determined, and the anthocyanin pigments were extracted with methanol. The total anthocyanin content (CAT) was evaluated by the pH difference method, and the antioxidant capacity by the DPPH method. In the solar nixtamalization process, a higher content of CAT anthocyanins and antioxidant capacity were obtained. Therefore, the solar energy process was proposed as a sustainable energy option, and we concluded that black corn nixtamalized with a solar oven had high antioxidant levels and could be used as a nutritious food.
Transformations of Eastern Orthodox Religious Discourse in Digital Society
Authors: Volkova Yana A.
Published: February 2021

Digital technologies have exerted a profound influence on every aspect of human life including religion. Religious discourse, like no other type of social-communicative interaction, responds to the slightest shifts in the concepts of life, identity, time, and space caused by digitalization. The purpose of this study was to reveal the digitalization-associated transformations that have taken place in the eastern orthodox religious discourse over more than quarter of a century. This discussion focuses on the attitude of the Russian Orthodox Church towards digital technologies as reflected in the interviews of its official spokespeople. On the basis of extensive empirical material, it is shown that two major factors determine new tendencies in eastern orthodox religious discourse: the necessity to adapt to modern digital environment and benefit from organizing the internet space in order to influence large numbers of “digitally educated” non-religious people, and, at the same time, a distrust of these new digital technologies. The study is based on the theory of discourse, with discourse analysis being the main research method along with the descriptive analytical method. The article also analyzed the changes in traditional genres of eastern orthodox religious discourse (the sermon), as well as the rapid development of new religious discourse genres (the commented liturgy and call-in show) and para-religious discourse genres. It is concluded that with the help of digital technologies, religious discourse penetrates into everyday life of people, regardless of their social status and religious affiliation, eliminating the borderline between the church and society in modern Russia.
Study and Evolution of the Dune Field of La Banya Spit in Ebro Delta (Spain) Using LiDAR Data and GPR
Authors: Rodríguez-Santalla Inmaculada , Gomez-Ortiz David , Martín-Crespo Tomás , Sánchez-García María José , Montoya-Montes Isabel , Martín-Velázquez Silvia , Barrio Fernando , Serra Jordi , Ramírez-Cuesta Juan Miguel , Gracia Francisco Javier
Published: February 2021

La Banya spit, located at the south of the River Ebro Delta, is a sandy formation, developed by annexation of bars forming successive beach ridges, which are oriented and modeled by the eastern and southern waves. The initial ridges run parallel to the coastline, and above them small dunes developed, the crests of which are oriented by dominant winds, forming foredune ridges and barchans. This study attempted to test a number of techniques in order to understand the dune dynamic on this coastal spit between 2004 and 2012: LiDAR data were used to reconstruct changes to the surface and volume of the barchan dunes and foredunes; ground-penetrating radar was applied to obtain an image of their internal structure, which would help to understand their recent evolution. GPS data taken on the field, together with application of GIS techniques, made possible the combination of results and their comparison. The results showed a different trend between the barchan dunes and the foredunes. While the barchan dunes increased in area and volume between 2004 and 2012, the foredunes lost thickness. This was also reflected in the radargrams: the barchan dunes showed reflectors related to the growth of the foresets while those associated with foredunes presented truncations associated with storm events. However, the global balance of dune occupation for the period 2004–2012 was positive.
Friction Compensation Control of Electromechanical Actuator Based on Neural Network Adaptive Sliding Mode
Authors: Ruan Wei , Dong Quanlin , Zhang Xiaoyue , Li Zhibing
Published: February 2021

In this paper, a radial basis neural network adaptive sliding mode controller (RBF−NN ASMC) for nonlinear electromechanical actuator systems is proposed. The radial basis function neural network (RBF−NN) control algorithm is used to compensate for the friction disturbance torque in the electromechanical actuator system. An adaptive law was used to adjust the weights of the neural network to achieve real−time compensation of friction. The sliding mode controller is designed to suppress the model uncertainty and external disturbance effects of the electromechanical actuator system. The stability of the RBF−NN ASMC is analyzed by Lyapunov’s stability theory, and the effectiveness of this method is verified by simulation. The results show that the control strategy not only has a better compensation effect on friction but also has better anti−interference ability, which makes the electromechanical actuator system have better steady−state and dynamic performance.
Fruit Quality Monitoring with Smart Packaging
Authors: Alam Arif U. , Rathi Pranali , Beshai Heba , Sarabha Gursimran K. , Deen M. Jamal
Published: February 2021

Smart packaging of fresh produce is an emerging technology toward reduction of waste and preservation of consumer health and safety. Smart packaging systems also help to prolong the shelf life of perishable foods during transport and mass storage, which are difficult to regulate otherwise. The use of these ever-progressing technologies in the packaging of fruits has the potential to result in many positive consequences, including improved fruit quality, reduced waste, and associated improved public health. In this review, we examine the role of smart packaging in fruit packaging, current-state-of-the-art, challenges, and prospects. First, we discuss the motivation behind fruit quality monitoring and maintenance, followed by the background on the development process of fruits, factors used in determining fruit quality, and the classification of smart packaging technologies. Then, we discuss conventional freshness sensors for packaged fruits including direct and indirect freshness indicators. After that, we provide examples of possible smart packaging systems and sensors that can be used in monitoring fruits quality, followed by several strategies to mitigate premature fruit decay, and active packaging technologies. Finally, we discuss the prospects of smart packaging application for fruit quality monitoring along with the associated challenges and prospects.
Multirate Processing with Selective Subbands and Machine Learning for Efficient Arrhythmia Classification
Authors: Qaisar Saeed , Mihoub Alaeddine , Krichen Moez , Nisar Humaira
Published: February 2021

The usage of wearable gadgets is growing in the cloud-based health monitoring systems. The signal compression, computational and power efficiencies play an imperative part in this scenario. In this context, we propose an efficient method for the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases based on electrocardiogram (ECG) signals. The method combines multirate processing, wavelet decomposition and frequency content-based subband coefficient selection and machine learning techniques. Multirate processing and features selection is used to reduce the amount of information processed thus reducing the computational complexity of the proposed system relative to the equivalent fixed-rate solutions. Frequency content-dependent subband coefficient selection enhances the compression gain and reduces the transmission activity and computational cost of the post cloud-based classification. We have used MIT-BIH dataset for our experiments. To avoid overfitting and biasness, the performance of considered classifiers is studied by using five-fold cross validation (5CV) and a novel proposed partial blind protocol. The designed method achieves more than 12-fold computational gain while assuring an appropriate signal reconstruction. The compression gain is 13 times compared to fixed-rate counterparts and the highest classification accuracies are 97.06% and 92.08% for the 5CV and partial blind cases, respectively. Results suggest the feasibility of detecting cardiac arrhythmias using the proposed approach.
Flexible Anti-Metal RFID Tag Antenna Based on High-Conductivity Graphene Assembly Film
Authors: Zhang Bohan , Zhang Cheng , Wang Yuchao , Wang Zhe , Liu Chengguo , He Daping , Wu Zhi P.
Published: February 2021

We propose a flexible anti-metal radio frequency identification (RFID) tag antenna based on a high-conductivity graphene assembly film (HCGAF). The HCGAF has a conductivity of 1.82 × 106 S m−1, a sheet resistance of 25 mΩ and a thickness of 22 μm. The HCGAF is endowed with high conductivity comparable to metal materials and superb flexibility, which is suitable for making antennas for microwave frequencies. Through proper structural design, parameter optimization, semiautomatic manufacturing and experimental measurements, an HCGAF antenna could realize a realized gain of –7.3 dBi and a radiation efficiency of 80%, and the tag could achieve a 6.4 m read range at 915 MHz on a 20 × 20 cm2 flat copper plate. In the meantime, by utilizing flexible polyethylene (PE) foam, good conformality was obtained. The read ranges of the tags attached to curved copper plates with different bending radii were measured, as well as those of those attached to several daily objects. All the results demonstrate the excellent performance of the design, which is highly favorable for practical RFID anti-metal applications.
On Improving 5G Internet of Radio Light Security Based on LED Fingerprint Identification Method
Authors: Shi Dayu , Zhang Xun , Shi Lina , Vladimirescu Andrei , Mazurczyk Wojciech , Cabaj Krzysztof , Meunier Benjamin , Ali Kareem , Cosmas John , Zhang Yue
Published: February 2021

In this paper, a novel device identification method is proposed to improve the security of Visible Light Communication (VLC) in 5G networks. This method extracts the fingerprints of Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) to identify the devices accessing the 5G network. The extraction and identification mechanisms have been investigated from the theoretical perspective as well as verified experimentally. Moreover, a demonstration in a practical indoor VLC-based 5G network has been carried out to evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of this approach. The fingerprints of four identical white LEDs were extracted successfully from the received 5G NR (New Radio) signals. To perform identification, four types of machine-learning-based classifiers were employed and the resulting accuracy was up to 97.1%.
Effect of Short-Term Exposure to Supplemental Vibrotactile Kinesthetic Feedback on Goal-Directed Movements after Stroke: A Proof of Concept Case Series
Authors: Ballardini Giulia , Krueger Alexis , Giannoni Psiche , Marinelli Lucio , Casadio Maura , Scheidt Robert A.
Published: February 2021

Many survivors of stroke have persistent somatosensory deficits on the contralesional side of their body. Non-invasive supplemental feedback of limb movement could enhance the accuracy and efficiency of actions involving the upper extremity, potentially improving quality of life after stroke. In this proof-of-concept study, we evaluated the feasibility and the immediate effects of providing supplemental kinesthetic feedback to stroke survivors, performing goal-directed actions with the contralesional arm. Three survivors of stroke in the chronic stage of recovery participated in experimental sessions wherein they performed reaching and stabilization tasks with the contralesional arm under different combinations of visual and vibrotactile feedback, which was induced on the ipsilesional arm. Movement kinematics were encoded by a vibrotactile feedback interface in two ways: state feedback—an optimal combination of hand position and velocity; and error feedback—the difference between the actual hand position and its instantaneous target. In each session we evaluated the feedback encoding scheme’s immediate objective utility for improving motor performance as well as its perceived usefulness. All three participants improved their stabilization performance using at least one of the feedback encoding schemes within just one experimental session. Two of the participants also improved reaching performance with one or the other of the encoding schemes. Although the observed beneficial effects were modest in each participant, these preliminary findings show that supplemental vibrotactile kinesthetic feedback can be readily interpreted and exploited to improve reaching and object stabilizing actions performed with the contralesional arm after stroke. These short-term training results motivate a longer multisession training study using personalized vibrotactile feedback as a means to improve the accuracy and efficacy of contralesional arm actions after stroke.
Limited Visibility Aware Motion Planning for Autonomous Valet Parking Using Reachable Set Estimation
Authors: Lee Seongjin , Lim Wonteak , Sunwoo Myoungho , Jo Kichun
Published: February 2021

Autonomous driving helps drivers avoid paying attention to keeping to a lane or keeping a distance from the vehicle ahead. However, the autonomous driving is limited by the need to park upon the completion of driving. In this sense, automated valet parking (AVP) system is one of the promising technologies for enabling drivers to free themselves from the burden of parking. Nevertheless, the driver must continuously monitor the automated system in the current automation level. The main reason for monitoring the automation system is due to the limited sensor range and occlusions. For safety reasons, the current field of view must be taken into account, as well as to ensure comfort and to avoid unexpected and harsh reactions. Unfortunately, due to parked vehicles and structures, the field of view in a parking lot is not sufficient for considering new obstacles coming out of occluded areas. To solve this problem, we propose a method that estimates the risks for unobservable obstacles by considering worst-case assumptions. With this method, we can ensure to not act overcautiously while moving safe. As a result, the proposed method can be a proactive approach to consider the limited visibility encountered in a parking lot. In the proposed method, occlusion can be efficiently reflected in the planning process. The potential of the proposed method is evaluated in a variety of simulations.
Two-Capacitor Direct Interface Circuit for Resistive Sensor Measurements
Authors: Hidalgo-López José A. , Oballe-Peinado Óscar , Castellanos-Ramos Julián , Sánchez-Durán José A.
Published: February 2021

Direct interface circuits (DICs) avoid the need for signal conditioning circuits and analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) to obtain digital measurements of resistive sensors using only a few passive elements. However, such simple hardware can lead to quantization errors when measuring small resistance values as well as high measurement times and uncertainties for high resistances. Different solutions to some of these problems have been presented in the literature over recent years, although the increased uncertainty in measurements at higher resistance values is a problem that has remained unaddressed. This article presents an economical hardware solution that only requires an extra capacitor to reduce this problem. The circuit is implemented with a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) as a programmable digital device. The new proposal significantly reduces the uncertainty in the time measurements. As a result, the high resistance errors decreased by up to 90%. The circuit requires three capacitor discharge cycles, as is needed in a classic DIC. Therefore, the time to estimate resistance increases slightly, between 2.7% and 4.6%.
An Authoritative Study on the Near Future Effect of Artificial Intelligence on Project Management Knowledge Areas
Authors: Fridgeirsson Thordur Vikingur , Ingason Helgi Thor , Jonasson Haukur Ingi , Jonsdottir Hildur
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study is to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) might augment the project management profession in each of the 10 categories of project management knowledge areas, as defined in the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) of the Project Management Institute (PMI). In a survey, a group of project management experts were asked to state their insights into AI’s likely effect on project management in the next 10 years. Results clearly illustrated that AI will be an integrated part of future project management practice and will affect project management knowledge areas in the near future. According to these findings, the management of cost, schedule, and risk, in particular, will be highly affected by AI. The research indicates that AI is very useful for processes where historical data is available and can be used for estimation and planning. In addition, it is clear that AI can monitor schedules, adjust forecasts, and maintain baselines. According to the findings, AI will have less impact in knowledge areas and processes that require human leadership skills, such as developing and managing teams and the management of stakeholders. The results indicate proprietarily the project management knowledge areas as defined by PMI that AI is likely to augment and sustain.
Total Repair Cost Simulation Considering Multiple Probabilistic Measures and Service Life
Authors: Yoon Yong-Sik , Ahn Yong-Han , Wang Xiao-Yong , Kwon Seung-Jun
Published: February 2021

In this study, the total maintenance cost for public houses in South Korea was analyzed, and the effect of each repair process on the total maintenance cost was evaluated with probabilistic and deterministic methods. In the probabilistic method, quality of repair materials and construction skills were considered in the variability of extended service life through repair, while the deterministic method considered it by simple summation of repair step. The repair cost was analyzed considering the coefficient of variation (COV) of extended service life, so the reasonable total maintenance cost was able to be evaluated. Since the results through the probabilistic method provided a continuous cost line, a reasonable repair strategy was carried out by simply changing the intended service life of the structure. The repair cost was additionally analyzed with constant COV (0.15) of each repair process for considering various situations. The analysis results with a COV of 0.15 exhibited a slightly higher maintenance cost than those with current COV. The total maintenance costs can be adjusted if the initial repair timing is extended to the largest possible extent for the highest-repair-cost process since the total repair cost is dominated by the process with the highest repair cost.
Performance-Influencing Factors and Improvement Paths of Third-Party Governance Service Regarding Environmental Pollution—An Empirical Study of the SEM Based on Shanghai Data
Authors: Cao Liping , Zhou Fenqi , Zhu Yuan
Published: February 2021

By employing ecological economics involving performance-influencing factors and third-party governance services that have the aim of reducing environmental pollution, a theoretical framework which includes object, subject, process that measures the performance of such services is analyzed on the basis of the idea of sustainability science (2.0). The research hypotheses regarding the relationships among service performance, multi-stakeholder subjects’ satisfaction, and the effect of process management are put forward; then, a three-dimensional performance measurement model, which includes performance, stakeholders, and the process of providing third-party governance services for addressing environmental pollution, is constructed based on the pressure–state–response (PSR) driving force model. At the same time, based on empirical data of the Shanghai municipality, the structural equation model (SEM) is used to empirically test the nine proposed research hypotheses. The empirical test results show that, except for the research hypotheses in regard to regulating variables and controlling variables, all of the research hypotheses passed the test. It means the direct performance, single subjective satisfaction, process management effects are performance-influencing factors. However, the stakeholders’ cooperation satisfaction partially influences the performance of third-party governance services regarding environmental pollution. Finally, through theoretical and empirical research, this paper proposes countermeasures and suggestions for improving the performance of third-party governance services regarding environmental pollution in Shanghai focusing on two aspects: one is the market governance mechanism innovation, and the other is regulations and standards innovation.
Sustainability: Recovery and Reuse of Brewing-Derived By-Products
Authors: Amoriello Tiziana , Ciccoritti Roberto
Published: February 2021

The great global challenge in order to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth over the coming decades is the promotion of the efficient use of resources, favoring a transition to a cleaner and circular economy [...]
Through the Irregular Paths of Inequality: An Analysis of the Evolution of Socioeconomic Inequality in Brazilian States Since 1976
Authors: Mourao Paulo , Junqueira Alexandre
Published: February 2021

Patterns of inequality tend to seriously undermine any attempt at economic growth policy when the inequality is perceived by significant groups of individuals as unjust, inhuman, and insurmountable. One country with a high degree of inequality has been Brazil (usually in the world top-10). Brazil had also witnessed strong dynamics of certain indicators, such as the Gini coefficient, over the last several decades. However, so far, such dynamics have not been properly analyzed, especially considering the significant differences across Brazilian states. For filling that gap, this study used econometric techniques specific to time series and tried to identify structural breaks in the series of Gini coefficients for the 27 Brazilian states since 1976. Results showed a tendency towards an increase in inequality until 1995, followed by a reduction in inequality since 2000. Some cases of Brazilian states were related to the absence of structural breaks, showing a maintenance of historical trends in the evolution of inequality, which raises important policies’ challenges.
The GHG Emissions Generating Capacity by Productive Sectors in the EU: A SAM Analysis
Authors: Álvarez-Martínez María T. , Mainar-Causapé Alfredo J.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we evaluate the generating capacity of Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emissions that all productive sectors have in the EU-27 of 2010. The analysis is performed using the social accounting matrices (SAMs) of each Member State (MS) and evaluating the interactions among industries, productive factors, and households with respect to the aggregated SAM for the EU-27. The main advantages and contributions of this study with respect to the existing literature are two. First, the availability of the whole income distribution detailed in the SAMs and second, their comparability across countries. The aim of this research is to better understand how productive sectors may damage the environment depending on their productive structure and final demand, particularly in a period of economic recession, which is very relevant in the context of COVID-19 and the near future. The results show that intersectoral connections are very diverse by MS and consequently, there are more differences in the generation capacity of GHG emission by country than by sector. Our results reinforce the idea of involving regional and national governments in the design and implementation of EU abatement strategies, taking into account the peculiarities of each region.
Sustainable Development of Online Group-Buying Websites: An Integrated Perspective of ECM and Relationship Marketing
Authors: Xia Yu Xiang , Chae Seong Wook
Published: February 2021

Online group buying (OGB) is a unique, innovative, and interesting online business model that seems to have a bright future. However, many group buying websites (GBWs) have not stood the test of time. Different from traditional e-commerce websites, GBWs create a rich value experience for consumers, but no research has explored how these benefits help GBWs achieve sustainable development. In this study, the expectation confirmation model (ECM) and relationship marketing are integrated to explore how these multi-dimensional perceived values influence relationship quality (satisfaction and relationship commitment) and ultimately shape loyalty (continuous intention and positive electronic word of mouth (eWOM)). The research model and hypotheses are empirically tested with 278 valid responses using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that satisfaction (SAT) and relationship commitment (RC) are primary antecedents of continuous intention (CI) and positive eWOM (PE). We found interesting differences in the effects of multi-dimensional perceived values on relationship quality and loyalty. Hedonic value can help GBWs improve relationship quality and directly promote the spread of PE, thus attracting new users. Utilitarian value can only increase satisfaction and directly affect CI, helping GBW retain existing users. Social value cannot improve user satisfaction, but it can help GBW develop long-term emotional connections with users and indirectly shape user loyalty. Finally, the implication, limitations, and future research directions are described.
From Eco-Urbanism to Eco-Fusion: An Augmented Multi-Scalar Framework in Sustainable Urbanism
Authors: Cheshmehzangi Ali , Flynn Andrew , Tan-Mullins May , Xie Linjun , Deng Wu , Mangi Eugenio , Chen Weixuan
Published: February 2021

This paper introduces the new concept of “eco-fusion” through an exploratory case study project. It suggests the importance of multi-scalar practice in the broader field of eco-urbanism. This study introduces eco-fusion as a multiplexed paradigm, which is then discussed in two different development models. This paper first highlights the position of “eco” in urbanism by providing a brief account of key terms and how they relate to one another. It then points out the associations between eco-fusion and sustainable urban development. Through an exploratory case study example in China, the practical factors of eco-development are assessed. The study aims to provide a set of intermediate development stages while maintaining each spatial level’s interface in their own defined and distinguished contexts. The key objective is to consider integrating the natural and built environments, which is considered the best practice of eco-development in urbanism. This study’s findings highlight integrated methods in eco-urbanism and suggest new directions for eco-planning/eco-design strategies.
Impaired Performance of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Naturally Contaminated with Moderate Levels of Deoxynivalenol
Authors: Santos Regiane R. , van Eerden Ellen
Published: February 2021

Mycotoxin exposure is common in the poultry industry. Deoxynivalenol (DON) is usually detected at levels below the maximum threshold (5000 ppb), but depending on diet and age, broiler performance can be affected. We evaluated the effects of 900 ppb and 2300 ppb DON on the performance, intestinal morphometry, and lesion scores of broiler chickens. One-day-old male Ross broilers (n = 736) were divided into 4 treatments with 8 replicates each, and a pen containing 23 birds was the experimental unit. The animals were fed diets naturally contaminated with two levels of DON: 900 (Low DON—LD) or 2300 (Moderate DON—MD) ppb, with or without activated charcoal, over 28 days. After this, all birds were fed a marginally DON-contaminated diet without charcoal. During the first 28 days, body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were significantly impaired when broilers were fed a MD diet without activated charcoal. Even after feeding a marginally contaminated diet from D28–35, birds previously fed the MD diet presented a significantly lower performance. The villus height:crypt depth (VH:CD) ratio was significantly higher in the ileum from 14-day-old broilers fed the MD when compared with the LD diet. At D28, the MD diet caused decreased villus height (VH) and increased crypt depth (CD), affecting VH:CD ratio in both intestinal segments, with higher levels in the jejunum from 28-day-old broilers fed a non-supplemented LD diet. Broiler production was negatively affected by DON, even at moderate levels (2300 ppb).
Examination of Staphylococcus aureus Prophages Circulating in Egypt
Authors: Ene Adriana , Miller-Ensminger Taylor , Mores Carine , Giannattasio-Ferraz Silvia , Wolfe Alan , Abouelfetouh Alaa , Putonti Catherine
Published: February 2021

Staphylococcus aureus infections are of growing concern given the increased incidence of antibiotic resistant strains. Egypt, like several other countries, has seen alarming increases in methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infections. This species can rapidly acquire genes associated with resistance, as well as virulence factors, through mobile genetic elements, including phages. Recently, we sequenced 56 S. aureus genomes from Alexandria Main University Hospital in Alexandria, Egypt, complementing 17 S. aureus genomes publicly available from other sites in Egypt. In the current study, we found that the majority (73.6%) of these strains contain intact prophages, including Biseptimaviruses, Phietaviruses, and Triaviruses. Further investigation of these prophages revealed evidence of horizontal exchange of the integrase for two of the prophages. These Egyptian S. aureus prophages are predicted to encode numerous virulence factors, including genes associated with immune evasion and toxins, including the Panton–Valentine leukocidin (PVL)-associated genes lukF-PV/lukS-PV. Thus, prophages are likely to be a major contributor to the virulence of S. aureus strains in circulation in Egypt.
Next Generation Sequencing for HIV-1 Drug Resistance Testing—A Special Issue Walkthrough
Authors: Kantor Rami
Published: February 2021

Drug resistance remains a global challenge in the fight against the HIV pandemic [...]
Maternal Infection and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes among Pregnant Travellers: Results of the International Zika Virus in Pregnancy Registry
Authors: Vouga Manon , Pomar Léo , Soriano-Arandes Antoni , Rodó Carlota , Goncé Anna , Gratacos Eduard , Merriam Audrey , Eperon Isabelle , Martinez De Tejada Begoña , Eggel Béatrice , Masmejan Sophie , Rochat Laurence , Genton Blaise , Van Mieghem Tim , Lambert Véronique , Malvy Denis , Gérardin Patrick , Baud David , Panchaud Alice
Published: February 2021

In this multicentre cohort study, we evaluated the risks of maternal ZIKV infections and adverse pregnancy outcomes among exposed travellers compared to women living in areas with ZIKV circulation (residents). The risk of maternal infection was lower among travellers compared to residents: 25.0% (n = 36/144) versus 42.9% (n = 309/721); aRR 0.6; 95% CI 0.5–0.8. Risk factors associated with maternal infection among travellers were travelling during the epidemic period (i.e., June 2015 to December 2016) (aOR 29.4; 95% CI 3.7–228.1), travelling to the Caribbean Islands (aOR 3.2; 95% CI 1.2–8.7) and stay duration >2 weeks (aOR 8.7; 95% CI 1.1–71.5). Adverse pregnancy outcomes were observed in 8.3% (n = 3/36) of infected travellers and 12.7% (n = 39/309) of infected residents. Overall, the risk of maternal infections is lower among travellers compared to residents and related to the presence of ongoing outbreaks and stay duration, with stays <2 weeks associated with minimal risk in the absence of ongoing outbreaks.
Transcriptome Analysis of Responses to Dengue Virus 2 Infection in Aedes albopictus (Skuse) C6/36 Cells
Authors: Li Manjin , Xing Dan , Su Duo , Wang Di , Gao Heting , Lan Cejie , Gu Zhenyu , Zhao Tongyan , Li Chunxiao
Published: February 2021

Dengue virus (DENV), a member of the Flavivirus genus of the Flaviviridae family, can cause dengue fever (DF) and more serious diseases and thus imposes a heavy burden worldwide. As the main vector of DENV, mosquitoes are a serious hazard. After infection, they induce a complex host–pathogen interaction mechanism. Our goal is to further study the interaction mechanism of viruses in homologous, sensitive, and repeatable C6/36 cell vectors. Transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq) technology was applied to the host transcript profiles of C6/36 cells infected with DENV2. Then, bioinformatics analysis was used to identify significant differentially expressed genes and the associated biological processes. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to verify the sequencing data. A total of 1239 DEGs were found by transcriptional analysis of Aedes albopictus C6/36 cells that were infected and uninfected with dengue virus, among which 1133 were upregulated and 106 were downregulated. Further bioinformatics analysis showed that the upregulated DEGs were significantly enriched in signaling pathways such as the MAPK, Hippo, FoxO, Wnt, mTOR, and Notch; metabolic pathways and cellular physiological processes such as autophagy, endocytosis, and apoptosis. Downregulated DEGs were mainly enriched in DNA replication, pyrimidine metabolism, and repair pathways, including BER, NER, and MMR. The qRT-PCR results showed that the concordance between the RNA-Seq and RT-qPCR data was very high (92.3%). The results of this study provide more information about DENV2 infection of C6/36 cells at the transcriptome level, laying a foundation for further research on mosquito vector–virus interactions. These data provide candidate antiviral genes that can be used for further functional verification in the future.
Role of the Host Genetic Susceptibility to 2009 Pandemic Influenza A H1N1
Authors: Pérez-Rubio Gloria , Ponce-Gallegos Marco Antonio , Domínguez-Mazzocco Bruno André , Ponce-Gallegos Jaime , García-Ramírez Román Alejandro , Falfán-Valencia Ramcés
Published: February 2021

Influenza A virus (IAV) is the most common infectious agent in humans, and infects approximately 10–20% of the world’s population, resulting in 3–5 million hospitalizations per year. A scientific literature search was performed using the PubMed database and the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) “Influenza A H1N1” and “Genetic susceptibility”. Due to the amount of information and evidence about genetic susceptibility generated from the studies carried out in the last influenza A H1N1 pandemic, studies published between January 2009 to May 2020 were considered; 119 papers were found. Several pathways are involved in the host defense against IAV infection (innate immune response, pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, complement activation, and HLA molecules participating in viral antigen presentation). On the other hand, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are a type of variation involving the change of a single base pair that can mean that encoded proteins do not carry out their functions properly, allowing higher viral replication and abnormal host response to infection, such as a cytokine storm. Some of the most studied SNPs associated with IAV infection genetic susceptibility are located in the FCGR2A, C1QBP, CD55, and RPAIN genes, affecting host immune responses through abnormal complement activation. Also, SNPs in IFITM3 (which participates in endosomes and lysosomes fusion) represent some of the most critical polymorphisms associated with IAV infection, suggesting an ineffective virus clearance. Regarding inflammatory response genes, single nucleotide variants in IL1B, TNF, LTA IL17A, IL8, IL6, IRAK2, PIK3CG, and HLA complex are associated with altered phenotype in pro-inflammatory molecules, participating in IAV infection and the severest form of the disease.
Predominance of HBV Genotype B and HDV Genotype 1 in Vietnamese Patients with Chronic Hepatitis
Authors: Hoan Nghiem Xuan , Hoechel Mirjam , Tomazatos Alexandru , Anh Chu Xuan , Pallerla Srinivas Reddy , Linh Le Thi Kieu , Binh Mai Thanh , Sy Bui Tien , Toan Nguyen Linh , Wedemeyer Heiner , Bock C.-Thomas , Kremsner Peter G. , Meyer Christian G. , Song Le Huu , Velavan Thirumalaisamy P.
Published: February 2021

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) coinfection will additionally aggravate the hepatitis B virus (HBV) burden in the coming decades, with an increase in HBV-related liver diseases. Between 2018 and 2019, a total of 205 HBV patients clinically characterized as chronic hepatitis B (CHB; n = 115), liver cirrhosis (LC; n = 21), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; n = 69) were recruited. HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), antibodies against surface antigens (anti-HBs), and core antigens (anti-HBc) were determined by ELISA. The presence of hepatitis B viral DNA and hepatitis delta RNA was determined. Distinct HBV and HDV genotypes were phylogenetically reconstructed and vaccine escape mutations in the “a” determinant region of HBV were elucidated. All HBV patients were HbsAg positive, with 99% (n = 204) and 7% (n = 15) of them being positive for anti-HBc and anti-HBs, respectively. Anti-HBs positivity was higher among HCC (15%; n = 9) compared to CHB patients. The HBV-B genotype was predominant (65%; n = 134), followed by HBV-C (31%; n = 64), HBV-D, and HBV-G (3%; n = 7). HCC was observed frequently among young individuals with HBV-C genotypes. A low frequency (2%; n = 4) of vaccine escape mutations was observed. HBV-HDV coinfection was observed in 16% (n = 33) of patients with the predominant occurrence of the HDV-1 genotype. A significant association of genotypes with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzyme levels was observed in HBV monoinfections. The prevalence of the HDV-1 genotype is high in Vietnam. No correlation was observed between HDV-HBV coinfections and disease progression when compared to HBV monoinfections.
Reliable Evapotranspiration Predictions with a Probabilistic Machine Learning Framework
Authors: Başağaoğlu Hakan , Chakraborty Debaditya , Winterle James
Published: February 2021

Evapotranspiration is often expressed in terms of reference crop evapotranspiration (ETo), actual evapotranspiration (ETa), or surface water evaporation (Esw), and their reliable predictions are critical for groundwater, irrigation, and aquatic ecosystem management in semi-arid regions. We demonstrated that a newly developed probabilistic machine learning (ML) model, using a hybridized “boosting” framework, can simultaneously predict the daily ETo, Esw, & ETa from local hydroclimate data with high accuracy. The probabilistic approach exhibited great potential to overcome data uncertainties, in which 100% of the ETo, 89.9% of the Esw, and 93% of the ETa test data at three watersheds were within the models’ 95% prediction intervals. The modeling results revealed that the hybrid boosting framework can be used as a reliable computational tool to predict ETo while bypassing net solar radiation calculations, estimate Esw while overcoming uncertainties associated with pan evaporation & pan coefficients, and predict ETa while offsetting high capital & operational costs of EC towers. In addition, using the Shapley analysis built on a coalition game theory, we identified the order of importance and interactions between the hydroclimatic variables to enhance the models’ transparency and trustworthiness.