bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Current Trends, Gaps & Challenges in Sustainable Food Systems Studies: The Need of Developing Urban Food Systems Frameworks for Sustainable Cities
Authors: Zou Tong , Dawodu Ayotunde , Mangi Eugenio , Cheshmehzangi Ali
Published: June 2023

The current global food system is under threat due to significant global changes such as rapid urbanization, climate change, COVID-19 outbreak, etc. The importance of food system sustainability as a key element of sustainable cities has been gradually recognized in recent years; however, the tools for estimating food system sustainability in cities (i.e., urban food system sustainability) holistically are still scarce. Thus, this study represents a comprehensive investigation into food system studies and their impacts on achieving a sustainable community or city. This study is a subset of larger studies that aim to develop an urban food system framework, which utilizes modern approaches in framework development such as sustainability food indicators and a participatory approach. However, to achieve this, trends, gaps, and challenges of the current approach to food system studies need to be reviewed and discussed. A systematic analysis utilizing the protocol of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach was conducted, and network analysis of publications was performed via VOS viewer. The results suggest applying circular principles and merging smartness and resilience thinking in developing strategies for food system sustainability. This study finds that key drivers to mitigate food crisis among countries vary. Furthermore, a context-specific framework with a more comprehensive definition of urban food systems covering the institutional processes, and food governance are also needed to achieve urban food system sustainability.
Metabolic Process Modeling of Metal Resources Based on System Dynamics—A Case Study for Steel in Mainland China
Authors: Shi Yan , Shao Shanshan , Yang Xuexi , Wang Da , Chen Bingrong , Deng Min
Published: June 2023

Rapid urbanization has promoted the development in human production and living standards, and the metabolic rhythm of metal resources has accelerated. Grasping the metabolic processes of metal resources and predicting their future development trends can help the country refine the formulation and adaptability of metal resource production and the recycling strategies for sustainable development. In this study, from the perspective of the entire life cycle of steel resources as an example, a system dynamics-based metal resource metabolism prediction model was established to predict the steel resources in the three stages, including production, in-use and end-of-life recycling. The trend in changes in steel resources production, in-use stock, end-of-life and recycling in mainland China from 1990 to 2020 were also analyzed. The results show that the volume of all stages of steel resource metabolism in mainland China from 1990 to 2020 has shown an increasing trend, and will reach a peak around 2040 and then remain stable. The steel resources in all the metabolism stages in mainland China were predominantly distributed in buildings. In mainland China, steel resource production efficiency reached above 0.9 and the steel resource outflow rate was 0.079, within which the domestic scrap rate reached 0.022 and the recycling rate reached above 0.8.
Efficiency Enhancement of a Hybrid Sustainable Energy Harvesting System Using HHHOPSO-MPPT for IoT Devices
Authors: Rabah Sirine , Zaier Aida , Lloret Jaime , Dahman Hassen
Published: June 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of interconnected physical devices, vehicles, and buildings that are embedded with sensors, software, and network connectivity, enabling them to collect and exchange data. This exchange of data between the physical and digital worlds allows for a wide range of applications, from smart homes and cities to industrial automation and healthcare. However, a key challenge faced by IoT nodes is the limited availability of energy to support their operations. Typically, these nodes can only function for a few days based on their duty cycle. This paper introduces a solution that aims to ensure the sustainability of IoT applications by addressing this energy challenge. Thus, we develop a design of a hybrid sustainable energy system designed specifically for IoT nodes, using solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind turbines (WT) chosen for their multiple benefits and complementarity. The system uses the single-ended primary-inductance converter (SEPIC) and is controlled using a hybrid approach, combining Harris Hawks Optimization and Particle Swarm Optimization (HHHOPSO). Each SEPIC converter boost the electrical energy generated to attain the required voltage level when charging the battery. The proposed methodology is implemented in MATLAB/Simulink and its performance is measured using appropriate metrics. In terms of efficiency and average power, the results show that the suggested method outperforms previous strategies. Our system powers also many sensor nodes, leading to a high level of sustainability and lowering the carbon footprint associated with traditional energy sources.
Spatio-Temporal Comprehensive Measurement and Influencing Factors of the Health Index of Residents in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Lu Chenyu , Jin Shulei , Zhang Tong
Published: June 2023

Health is the basis of human survival and development. It is not only related to quality of life but also guarantees national security and social stability. Under the combined influence of various factors, large regional differences exist with regard to the health levels of residents in the Yellow River Basin (YRB). Here, we took 73 prefecture-level cities (leagues and prefectures) in the YRB as our research object. We constructed an index system and a measurement model and applied geographical information system (GIS) technology and quantitative analysis methods to make comprehensive spatial and temporal measurements of the health index of residents in the YRB and further analyzed the influencing factors. Overall, the health index of residents in the YRB showed a steady upward trend. However, some differences exist across various regions with regard to residents’ health index. The YRB resident health index displayed positive spatial autocorrelation; spatial clustering showed an initial decrease, followed by an increase, suggesting notable fluctuations. With the increase in per capita GDP, urbanization rate, and household size, the health index of residents in the YRB has improved. However, increased wastewater and waste gas discharge has led to a decrease in the health index of residents in the YRB.
From Gym to Grid: Evaluating the Impact of COVID-19 on Saudi Gym-Goers’ Willingness to Utilize Human Kinetic Energy for Sustainable Energy Generation
Authors: Yusuf Nadia , Fawzy Mostafa F.
Published: June 2023

In the context of increasing sustainability through renewable energy utilization in Saudi Arabia, this study was motivated by the need to understand the impact of COVID-19 on gym-goers’ attitudes and behaviors towards renewable energy generating using their human kinetic energy (HKE). A comparative analytical study was conducted using a pre-COVID-19 survey (n = 96) and a post-COVID-19 survey (n = 385) of gym-goers in Saudi Arabia. The surveys consisted of closed-ended Likert-type questions that measured participants’ attitudes, behaviors, and willingness related to renewable energy and HKE generation. The results of the Chi-square test of independence showed that there was no significant difference in the participants’ attitudes towards behaviors and awareness regarding renewable energy and HKE generation between the pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 surveys. However, the study revealed an overall promising level of support for sustainable energy and HKE generation among gym-goers. This led to the conclusion that there is potential for the installation of sustainable HKE generation systems in gyms. The main implication of this finding is the need for greater education and awareness raising campaigns as well as incentives to support the implementation of renewable energy solutions. The research contributes to sustainable development and Saudi Vision 2030 by exploring potential opportunities for increasing the share of renewable energy in the overall energy mix and promoting sustainable development.
Integration of Lean Green and Sustainability in Manufacturing: A Review on Current State and Future Perspectives
Authors: Elemure Ifeoluwa , Dhakal Hom Nath , Leseure Michel , Radulovic Jovana
Published: June 2023

The literature presents a review of the current application of lean and green practices and highlights the context, barriers, drivers, tools, and critical success factors and tools for the integration of lean and green practices within the Sub-Saharan African (SSA) manufacturing industry. In addition, the current state, gaps in the existing literature, and future perspectives on the current challenges of the industry have been suggested for the integration of both paradigm and sustainability of the industry. Integration of lean-green provides means to addressing issues faced by manufacturing industries for improved competitiveness. This study demonstrates that the application of lean and green practice is critical to be identified and applied within the region through the analysis of research papers published in both operational and sustainability journals. The findings of this review indicate that the synergy of lean and green practices is an effective initiative for resolving the operational and sustainability challenges of the manufacturing industry within SSA. To achieve operational excellence and mitigate environmental concerns, industries must implement the right tools and consider the critical success factors. By applying appropriate tools and models, the SSA region can address the current challenges and achieve a reduction in cost significantly.
Research on Hole Collapse Monitoring Technology of Coal Seam Gas Extraction Boreholes
Authors: Cheng Renhui , Zhang Chao , Fan Fuhuai , Duan Chenye , Chen Zhiheng
Published: June 2023

It is difficult to monitor the collapse position of a gas extraction borehole in a coal seam. In order to solve this problem, a fiber-optic grating collapse monitoring technology was proposed. Five kinds of grating arrangements (0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°) were examined to simulate the hole collapse. The relationship model between the center wavelength offset and the amount of collapsed coal and extraction flow was constructed to obtain the distribution curve of the hole collapse position and quality along the length of the hole, and flow decay rates of 80% and 50% were used as the critical values to classify the three levels of hole collapse. The results show that the hole collapse monitoring accuracy is the highest with the grating measurement points located below the substrate material arrangement. Finally, the effectiveness of fiber-optic grating monitoring technology was verified in the 2202 working face of the Changcun coal mine of the Lu’an Group, and the pure amount of gas extraction from the repaired borehole after monitoring was increased by 62.6% compared with that before the repair.
Regenerative Streets: Pathways towards the Post-Automobile City
Authors: Alberti Francesco
Published: June 2023

The subject of the paper is the street, seen as a structuring and emblematic element of urban settlement. The topic is addressed from the lens of regenerative design, whose underlying whole-system, multi-scalar, and dynamic approach can find urban connections to be a fruitful field of experimentation from the perspective of the post-automobile city. The first part of the paper traces the stages of the transport mechanization process and related impacts on urban patterns, emphasizing the voices critical of reducing streets to mere traffic channels that have accompanied it, until the sustainability discourse led to a general rethinking of how mobility should be planned in cities. The second part of the paper reviews alternative urban visions to the still prevailing car-oriented model, which re-actualize the idea of the street as a multifunctional space, providing social and environmental ‘returns’ in addition to its role as a transport infrastructure. The notion of the street as a ‘space of potential’ is then developed through an inductive classification of regenerative actions at different scales, both material and immaterial, as well as permanent and temporary, thus providing a unifying conceptual framework for further research and practical applications in the fields of urban design and sustainable mobility.
Impact of Market Value, Roster Size, Arrivals and Departures on Performance in Iranian Men’s Football
Authors: Scelles Nicolas , Khanmoradi Saeed
Published: June 2023

This research aims to study the effect of the sustainable management of human resources on performance. It examines the impact of market value, roster size, arrivals and departures on team performance in football. Regressions are tested based on data from clubs in the Persian Gulf Pro League—the first tier in Iranian men’s football—over 2009–2022 (n = 216 observations). The results show that market value has a significant positive impact on team performance roster size and arrivals a significant negative impact, and departures no significant impact. When distinguishing departures between teams with a roster size below 33 players vs. 33 players and more, departures for roster size below 33 players have a significant positive impact vs. no impact for 33 players and more. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to distinguish arrivals and departures when looking at staff turnover in football. It informs the need for a sustainable roster (not too many arrivals) and roster size (not too high) to perform on the pitch. The article highlights that departures can help reach a more sustainable roster size (if too high) and a better team performance, while also contributing to a sustainable financial management.
Using Deep Learning and Google Street View Imagery to Assess and Improve Cyclist Safety in London
Authors: Rita Luís , Peliteiro Miguel , Bostan Tudor-Codrin , Tamagusko Tiago , Ferreira Adelino
Published: June 2023

Cycling is a sustainable mode of transportation with significant benefits for society. The number of cyclists on the streets depends heavily on their perception of safety, which makes it essential to establish a common metric for determining and comparing risk factors related to road safety. This research addresses the identification of cyclists’ risk factors using deep learning techniques applied to a Google Street View (GSV) imagery dataset. The research utilizes a case study approach, focusing on London, and applies object detection and image segmentation models to extract cyclists’ risk factors from GSV images. Two state-of-the-art tools, You Only Look Once version 5 (YOLOv5) and the pyramid scene parsing network (PSPNet101), were used for object detection and image segmentation. This study analyzes the results and discusses the technology’s limitations and potential for improvements in assessing cyclist safety. Approximately 2 million objects were identified, and 250 billion pixels were labeled in the 500,000 images available in the dataset. On average, 108 images were analyzed per Lower Layer Super Output Area (LSOA) in London. The distribution of risk factors, including high vehicle speed, tram/train rails, truck circulation, parked cars and the presence of pedestrians, was identified at the LSOA level using YOLOv5. Statistically significant negative correlations were found between cars and buses, cars and cyclists, and cars and people. In contrast, positive correlations were observed between people and buses and between people and bicycles. Using PSPNet101, building (19%), sky (15%) and road (15%) pixels were the most common. The findings of this research have the potential to contribute to a better understanding of risk factors for cyclists in urban environments and provide insights for creating safer cities for cyclists by applying deep learning techniques.
Social Metabolism in Buruan SAE: Individual Rift Perspective on Urban Farming Model for Food Independence in Bandung, Indonesia
Authors: Purnomo Dwi , Sitepu Gregorio Laulasta , Nugraha Yoga Restu , Permana Rosiyan Muhammad Bayu
Published: June 2023

This study focused on one of the formulas for assessing social metabolism, specifically derived from individual variables. The formula was utilized as a framework for analyzing agricultural activities and combatting food vulnerability in urban communities. Bandung, the capital city of West Java in Indonesia, has implemented an urban agricultural program called Buruan SAE, using a policy formulation oriented towards food self-sufficiency for low-income citizens. This program utilized a policy formulation that involved using empty residential land owned by low-income citizens, distributing food to surrounding residents indiscriminately, and working towards anticipating nutritional vulnerability (stunting). However, the implementation had the opposite effect and pushed urban agriculture into becoming stagnant and undeveloped. This study aims to use individual rift theory as the analytic axiom to discuss the stagnation in the implementation of policy. The analysis was performed using a social monitoring method to form policy instruments that analyze Buruan SAE’s stagnation in Bandung City.
Pediatric Urology Metaverse
Authors: Della Corte Marcello , Clemente Erica , Checcucci Enrico , Amparore Daniele , Cerchia Elisa , Tulelli Berenice , Fiori Cristian , Porpiglia Francesco , Gerocarni Nappo Simona
Published: June 2023

In the last decades, a digital revolution has transformed several aspects of people’s lives worldwide. Consequently, many substantial changes have concerned numerous professional environments, including medical ones. Among all the different new instruments available in this field, the metaverse is the most futuristic one and seems to be likewise promising. The metaverse is an emerging resource in healthcare, resulting from the integration of virtual and physical reality. It is particularly valuable in surgical operations, since it allows surgeons to perfectly visualize patients’ anatomy. Metaverse applications even include the pediatric field—in particular, the implementation of children and parents’ shared decision-making processes, as well as prenatal diagnosis and fetal surgery. This resource further represents a rising opportunity in pediatric urology: the development of 3D virtual models and robotic surgery will allow surgeons to explore surgical fields, perfectionating their own professional skills. The metaverse will empower pediatric urologists, patients and their families in many ways, and each one of them deserves to be explored to the fullest. In this work, we aim to discuss the current applications of the metaverse in pediatric urology and its future perspectives.
Collapsing and Splashing Dynamics of Single Laser-Induced Cavitation Bubbles within Droplets
Authors: Zhang Yuning , Zhang Xiaofei , Zhang Xiangqing , Zhang Shurui , Zha Kehui , Li Zhaohao , Zhang Yuning
Published: June 2023

In the present paper, the cavitation bubble dynamics model for a single bubble oscillating within a droplet is improved based on the classical Rayleigh–Plesset bubble dynamics equation and the effects of liquid surface tension and viscosity are both considered. In the aspect of the experiment, the collapsing dynamic process of a bubble within a droplet is carried out by building a high-speed photography experimental platform. In addition, the numerical solution of the dynamic equation for the collapse time of the bubble within the droplet is also carried out. The findings are given as follows: (1) The bubble dynamic equation considering liquid surface tension and viscosity of bubble within droplet is proposed. (2) The surface of liquid droplets induced by the bubble motion could be divided into three modes: no splashing, scattered splashing, composite splash consisting of scattered and flaky splash. (3) The bubble interface during the first collapsing stage could be divided into three types: spherical, conical, and fungiform. (4) The numerical solution shows an accurate prediction of the bubble collapse time within the droplet especially under the condition of medium radius ratio.
Using In Silico Approach for Metabolomic and Toxicity Prediction of Alternariol
Authors: Marin Daniela Eliza , Taranu Ionelia
Published: June 2023

Alternariol is a metabolite produced by Alternaria fungus that can contaminate a variety of food and feed materials. The objective of the present paper was to provide a prediction of Phase I and II metabolites of alternariol and a detailed ADME/Tox profile for alternariol and its metabolites using an in silico working model based on the MetaTox, SwissADME, pKCMS, and PASS online computational programs. A number of 12 metabolites were identified as corresponding to the metabolomic profile of alternariol. ADME profile for AOH and predicted metabolites indicated a moderate or high intestinal absorption probability but a low probability to penetrate the blood–brain barrier. In addition to cytotoxic, mutagenic, carcinogenic, and endocrine disruptor effects, the computational model has predicted other toxicological endpoints for the analyzed compounds, such as vascular toxicity, haemato-toxicity, diarrhea, and nephrotoxicity. AOH and its metabolites have been predicted to act as a substrate for different isoforms of phase I and II drug-metabolizing enzymes and to interact with the response to oxidative stress. In conclusion, in silico methods can represent a viable alternative to in vitro and in vivo tests for the prediction of mycotoxins metabolism and toxicity.
Trend of Human Schistosomiasis Japonica Prevalence in China from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Li Yifeng , He Tingting , Xie Jingzi , Lv Shangbiao , Li Zongguang , Yuan Min , Hu Fei , Lin Dandan
Published: June 2023

Schistosomiasis (Schistosomiasis japonica) remains an important public health problem in China, and the Chinese government has set an ambitious goal of eliminating schistosomiasis by 2030. Based on the observational study of the Global Burden of Disease Study database in 2019 (GBD2019) and the World Bank database, this study aimed to analyze the prevalence trend of schistosomiasis in China from 1990 to 2019 by using the joinpoint regression model, and the relationship between economic and social development and schistosomiasis prevalence. The data of age-standardized infection rates (ASRs) from the Global Burden of Disease Study Global Health Data Exchange were collected, and Gross national product per capita (GDP) and people using safely managed sanitation services ((PPMS) % of population) were extracted from the World Bank database. Trends of ASR were analyzed using joinpoint regression analysis, the association of ASR with GDP, and PPMS using the Pearson correlation analysis. The results reveal that, from 1990 to 2019, the overall trend of ASR from schistosomiasis showed a decrease for both sexes, the decreases in men were relatively smaller compared with women. A larger decrease has been observed in the age groups from 15 to 49 years compared with other age groups. The ASR of schistosomiasis had a significant negative correlation with GDP and PPMS. This observational study identified decreasing prevalence rate of schistosomiasis in China since 1990. Continuous investment, optimization of control strategy, and economic development will help to achieve the goal of schistosomiasis elimination.
Comment on the Vacuum Energy Density for λϕ4 Theory in d Spacetime Dimensions
Authors: LeClair André
Published: June 2023

In a recent article we showed that the vacuum energy density in two spacetime dimensions for a wide variety of integrable quantum field theories has the form ρvac=−m2/2g where m is a physical mass and g is a generalized coupling, where in the free field limit g→0, ρvac diverges. This vacuum energy density has the form ⟨Tμν⟩=−ρvacgμν, and has previously been considered as a contribution to the stress energy tensor in Einstein’s gravity as a “cosmological constant”. We speculated that in four spacetime dimensions ρvac takes a similar form ρvac=−m4/2g, but did not support this idea in any specific model. In this article, we study this problem for λϕ4 theory in d spacetime dimensions. We show how to obtain the exactρvac for the sinh–Gordon theory in the weak coupling limit by using a saddle point approximation. This calculation indicates that the vacuum energy can be well-defined, positive or negative, without spontaneous symmetry breaking. We also show that ρvac satisfies a Callan–Symanzik type of renormalization group equation. For the most interesting case physically, ρvac is positive and can arise from a marginally relevant negative coupling g and the vacuum energy flows to zero at low energies.
Studying the Spectral Energy Distributions Emanating from Regular Galactic XRBs
Authors: Papavasileiou Theodora , Kosmas Odysseas , Sinatkas Ioannis
Published: June 2023

X-ray binary systems (XRBs) exhibit similar dynamics and multimessenger emission mechanisms to active galactic nuclei (AGNs) with the benefit of shorter time scaling. Those systems produce rich spectral energy distributions (SEDs) ranging from the radio band to the very high energy gamma rays. The emission origin varies between the system’s accretion disk (X-rays) to the corona and, most notably, to the two twin plasma ejections (jets) that often meet the interstellar medium forming highly observable radio lobes. Modeling of the jets offers an excellent opportunity to understand the intrinsic mechanisms and the jet particles, such as electrons, positrons, and protons. In this work, we employ a lepto-hadronic jet model that assumes particle acceleration through shock waves over separate zonal regions of the jet. The hadronic models consider proton–proton collisions that end up in gamma-ray photons through neutral pion decays. The main leptonic mechanisms involve synchrotron radiation (from both electrons and protons) and inverse Compton scattering of ambient photons (coming from the disk, the corona, and the companion star) on jet electrons. The emissions from the disk, the corona, and the donor star are also included in the SED calculations, along with the photon absorption effects due to their interaction with higher-energy jet photons. We apply the model on a 10M⊙ black hole accreting at the Eddington rate out of a 20M⊙ companion star. One of our goals is to investigate and determine an optimal frame concerning the values for the free parameters that enter our calculations to produce higher integral fluxes.
Loop Quantum Black Hole
Authors: Zhang Xiangdong
Published: June 2023

In recent decades, there has been growing interest in the quantization of black holes using techniques developed in loop quantum cosmology. Due to the quantum geometry effect, the resulting quantum-corrected black hole provides non-singular models. The quantization scheme can be roughly divided into four types: (1) the μ0 scheme, (2) the μ¯ scheme, (3) the generalized μ0 scheme, and (4) the quantum collapsing model. This paper provides an introduction of the loop quantum black hole model, a summary of the progress made in this field, as well as the quantum effective dynamics and physical applications of these models.
Modulation of the Host Response as a Therapeutic Strategy in Severe Lung Infections
Authors: Latreille Elyse , Lee Warren L.
Published: June 2023

Respiratory pathogens such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2 can cause severe lung infections leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The pathophysiology of ARDS includes an excessive host immune response, lung epithelial and endothelial cell death and loss of the epithelial and endothelial barrier integrity, culminating in pulmonary oedema and respiratory failure. Traditional approaches for the treatment of respiratory infections include drugs that exert direct anti-pathogen effects (e.g., antivirals). However, such agents are typically ineffective or insufficient after the development of ARDS. Modulation of the host response has emerged as a promising alternative therapeutic approach to mitigate damage to the host for the treatment of respiratory infections; in principle, this strategy should also be less susceptible to the development of pathogen resistance. In this review, we discuss different host-targeting strategies against pathogen-induced ARDS. Developing therapeutics that enhance the host response is a pathogen-agnostic approach that will help prepare for the next pandemic.
Filter-Free, Harmless, and Single-Wavelength Far UV-C Germicidal Light for Reducing Airborne Pathogenic Viral Infection
Authors: Truong Cao-Sang , Muthukutty Palaniyandi , Jang Ho Kyung , Kim Young-Ho , Lee Dong Hoon , Yoo So Young
Published: June 2023

Germicidal lamps that primarily emit 254 nm ultraviolet (UV) radiation have been effectively utilized for surface sterilization, but they cannot be used on human skin and eyes due to their harmful and genotoxic activity. Recent reports have shown that far UV-C light (207–222 nm) can efficiently kill pathogens with potentially no harm to exposed human tissues. However, these methods still require additional filtering and/or further protective equipment. In this study, we demonstrate a filter-free, harmless, and single-wavelength far UV-C 207 nm germicidal light source that can be used to inactivate different respiratory viruses. It can be exploited as a safe and effective disinfection tool for various airborne viruses. We successfully developed a single-wavelength far UV-C source that produces an exact wavelength of 207 nm. We examined its safety on human skin and corneal cell lines, as well as its effects on inactivating different airborne viruses, such as coronavirus, adenovirus, and vaccinia virus. We expect that our far UV-C lamps can be safely and conveniently used to reduce COVID-19 infections and protect both our living spaces and hospitals from the threat of contamination by possible new or mutant viruses.
Influence of N-Glycosylation on Virus–Host Interactions in Halorubrum lacusprofundi
Authors: Gebhard L. Johanna , Vershinin Zlata , Alarcón-Schumacher Tomás , Eichler Jerry , Erdmann Susanne
Published: June 2023

N-glycosylation is a post-translational modification of proteins that occurs across all three domains of life. In Archaea, N-glycosylation is crucial for cell stability and motility, but importantly also has significant implications for virus–host interactions. While some archaeal viruses present glycosylated proteins or interact with glycosylated host proteins, the direct influence of N-glycosylation on archaeal virus–host interactions remains to be elucidated. In this study, we generated an N-glycosylation-deficient mutant of Halorubrum lacusprofundi, a halophilic archaeon commonly used to study cold adaptation, and examined the impact of compromised N-glycosylation on the infection dynamics of two very diverse viruses. While compromised N-glycosylation had no influence on the life cycle of the head-tailed virus HRTV-DL1, we observed a significant effect on membrane-containing virus HFPV-1. Both intracellular genome numbers and extracellular virus particle numbers of HFPV-1 were increased in the mutant strain, which we attribute to instability of the surface-layer which builds the protein envelope of the cell. When testing the impact of compromised N-glycosylation on the life cycle of plasmid vesicles, specialized membrane vesicles that transfer a plasmid between host cells, we determined that plasmid vesicle stability is strongly dependent on the host glycosylation machinery. Our study thus provides important insight into the role of N-glycosylation in virus–host interactions in Archaea, while pointing to how this influence strongly differs amongst various viruses and virus-like elements.
Lumpy Skin Disease Virus Genome Sequence Analysis: Putative Spatio-Temporal Epidemiology, Single Gene versus Whole Genome Phylogeny and Genomic Evolution
Authors: Breman Floris C. , Haegeman Andy , Krešić Nina , Philips Wannes , De Regge Nick
Published: June 2023

Lumpy Skin Disease virus is a poxvirus from the genus Capripox that mainly affects bovines and it causes severe economic losses to livestock holders. The Lumpy Skin Disease virus is currently dispersing in Asia, but little is known about detailed phylogenetic relations between the strains and genome evolution. We reconstructed a whole-genome-sequence (WGS)-based phylogeny and compared it with single-gene-based phylogenies. To study population and spatiotemporal patterns in greater detail, we reconstructed networks. We determined that there are strains from multiple clades within the previously defined cluster 1.2 that correspond with recorded outbreaks across Eurasia and South Asia (Indian subcontinent), while strains from cluster 2.5 spread in Southeast Asia. We concluded that using only a single gene (cheap, fast and easy to routinely use) for sequencing lacks phylogenetic and spatiotemporal resolution and we recommend to create at least one WGS whenever possible. We also found that there are three gene regions, highly variable, across the genome of LSDV. These gene regions are located in the 5′ and 3′ flanking regions of the LSDV genome and they encode genes that are involved in immune evasion strategies of the virus. These may provide a starting point to further investigate the evolution of the virus.
Effectiveness of Climbing Lanes for Slow-Moving Vehicles When Riding Uphill: A Microsimulation Study
Authors: Del Serrone Giulia , Cantisani Giuseppe , Grilli Riccardo , Peluso Paolo
Published: June 2023

Long uphill stretches of single-carriageway rural roads with one lane per travel direction may reduce the Level of Service (LoS), due to the decreased speed of heavy vehicles. In those circumstances, a slowdown of traffic, resulting in the formation of platoons, may be generated due to the difficulty of performing overtaking maneuvers safely. To solve this critical issue, an additional (climbing) lane for slow vehicles may be included in the road platform. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of such climbing lanes in a real case in Italy (National Road n. 4 “Via Salaria”—around 44+000 km). Using a microsimulation model implemented in VISSIM, the study analyzes speeds and travel times, delays, and queuing waiting times, comparing the Actual Scenario (AS) without climbing lanes, with two counterfactual scenarios: the first one (CS1) with three stretches of climbing lanes, and the second one (CS2), with just two stretches, in which the first two additional lanes of CS1 are merged together. The obtained results confirm the effectiveness of installing climbing lanes on road sections with the described characteristics, and the potential of microsimulation models also to carry out such kind of evaluations.
Fecal Calprotectin Concentrations in Cats with Chronic Enteropathies
Authors: Riggers Denise S. , Xenoulis Panagiotis G. , Karra Dimitra A. , Enderle Lena L. , Köller Gabor , Böttcher Denny , Steiner Joerg M. , Heilmann Romy M.
Published: June 2023

Diagnosis of feline chronic inflammatory enteropathies (CIE) and the differentiation from small cell intestinal lymphoma (SCL) can be challenging. Intestinally expressed calprotectin (S100A8/A9 protein complex) appears to be part of the complex pathogenesis of feline chronic enteropathies (FCE). Fecal calprotectin is a non-invasive biomarker for intestinal inflammation in humans and dogs but has not yet been evaluated in cats. We hypothesized that fecal calprotectin (fCal) concentrations are increased in FCE, correlate with clinical and/or histologic disease severity, and distinguish cases of CIE from SCL. This case–control study included fecal samples and patient data from cats with CIE (n = 34), SCL (n = 17), other gastrointestinal (GI) diseases (n = 16), and cats with no clinical signs of GI disease (n = 32). fCal concentrations were measured using the immunoturbidimetric fCal turbo assay (Bühlmann Laboratories). Compared to healthy cats, fCal concentrations were significantly increased in CIE, SCL, and other diseases (all p < 0.0001), but were not different between these three groups (all p > 0.05), or between cats with extra-GI diseases and healthy controls. These findings suggest that fCal may have utility as a clinical biomarker for FCE but not for intestinal disease differentiation. It further supports the role of calprotectin in the pathogenesis of the spectrum of FCE, which includes CIE and SCL.
Reviewing Challenges of Flood Risk Management in Malaysia
Authors: Rosmadi Haziq Sarhan , Ahmed Minhaz Farid , Mokhtar Mazlin Bin , Lim Chen Kim
Published: June 2023

This study reviewed some of the challenges faced by local authorities in disaster management, especially flood disasters that occurred in Malaysia. Flood disasters are the most frequent disasters in Malaysia, especially during the monsoon seasons. The hard structure developed by Malaysia’s National Security Council (MKN) under ‘Directive 20’ is used to manage disasters in the country. Although Malaysia has become more skillful in managing flood disasters, the frequent climate changes along with weakness in implementing flood risk management plans resulted in much losses and damages throughout the country. Therefore, this study explored the gaps and weaknesses in flood risk management (FRM) in Malaysia by reviewing the available literature to recommend better flood management. This study revealed four main issues which are weaknesses in terms of (i) coordination and communication, (ii) manpower and assets, (iii) public awareness, and (iv) power and authority among local authorities to implement flood management plans. The capacity of local authorities and individuals in charge of disaster management is inadequate, especially for flood risk preparedness and management. Hence, responsible individuals are also in a vulnerable situation to implement management plans or rescue operations when flood disasters occur since they are also flood victims. Thus, the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) which acts as the main coordinator of disaster management in Malaysia should re-examine the flood management plan to ensure that it can be implemented efficiently and effectively, especially at the local level as they are the first respondents on the scene when the disaster occurs. The combination of both structural and non-structural measures might require in many cases the management of flood disasters; however, the disaster risk preparedness and management of individuals via customized training is a must to prevent flood disasters as well as minimize their impact. The flood management plan should also incorporate natural-based approaches at the whole-river-basin level for the long-term solution and sustainable development, not only focusing to manage the localized flood problem at the specific area.
Rill and Interrill Soil Loss Estimations Using the USLE-MB Equation at the Sparacia Experimental Site (South Italy)
Authors: Pampalone Vincenzo , Nicosia Alessio , Palmeri Vincenzo , Serio Maria Angela , Ferro Vito
Published: June 2023

A reliable prediction of event soil loss at the plot scale can be obtained by Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE)-type models. For the Sparacia site (South Italy), the USLE-MB model was recently developed, in which the effect of the erosive agent is modeled using the rainfall erosivity index of the USLE by a power b1 > 1 of the runoff coefficient QR. In this investigation, the model is parameterized separately using plot data collected for rill and interrill events that occurred in the Sparacia experimental area. The values b1 = 1.406 and b1 = 1.012 were obtained for the interrill and rill databases, respectively, which revealed a different effect of the runoff coefficient on soil loss due to the two erosive processes. Different relationships expressive of topographic factors were also deduced. The USLE-MB estimation performance significantly improved when operating the distinction between the two databases compared with the model parameterized on the complete database. The model was particularly reliable in estimating the highest event soil loss values, which were associated with the occurrence of rills. Finally, the proposed parameterization procedure lends itself to being tested in the framework of empirical soil loss modeling.
Soil–Water Dynamics Investigation at Agricultural Hillslope with High-Precision Weighing Lysimeters and Soil–Water Collection Systems
Authors: Krevh Vedran , Groh Jannis , Filipović Lana , Gerke Horst H. , Defterdarović Jasmina , Thompson Sally , Sraka Mario , Bogunović Igor , Kovač Zoran , Robinson Nathan , Baumgartl Thomas , Filipović Vilim
Published: June 2023

A quantitative understanding of actual evapotranspiration (ETa) and soil–water dynamics in a hillslope agroecosystem is vital for sustainable water resource management and soil conservation; however, the complexity of processes and conditions involving lateral subsurface flow (LSF) can be a limiting factor in the full comprehension of hillslope soil–water dynamics. The research was carried out at SUPREHILL CZO located on a hillslope agroecosystem (vineyard) over a period of two years (2021–2022) by combining soil characterization and field hydrological measurements, including weighing lysimeters, sensor measurements, and LSF collection system measurements. Lysimeters were placed on the hilltop and the footslope, both having a dynamic controlled bottom boundary, which corresponded to field pressure head measurements, to mimic field soil–water dynamics. Water balance components between the two positions on the slope were compared with the goal of identifying differences that might reveal hydrologically driven differences due to LSF paths across the hillslope. The usually considered limitations of these lysimeters, or the borders preventing LSF through the domain, acted as an aid within this installation setup, as the lack of LSF was compensated for through the pumping system at the footslope. The findings from lysimeters were compared with LSF collection system measurements. Weighing lysimeter data indicated that LSF controlled ETa rates. The results suggest that the onset of LSF contributes to the spatial crop productivity distribution in hillslopes. The present approach may be useful for investigating the impact of LSF on water balance components for similar hillslope sites and crops or other soil surface covers.
Detection of multiple fish species in the diet of the invasive round goby reveals new trophic interactions in the Baltic Sea
Authors: Wallin Kihlberg Isa , Florin Ann-Britt , Lundström Karl , Östman Örjan
Published: June 2023

The mesopredatory round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) is an important fish invader in fresh and brackish waters of the northern hemisphere. Trophic interactions of invasive species can generate ecological impacts across the food web in invaded ecosystems. Here we investigated major diet components, spatiotemporal variation in diet and the effect of round goby densities on diet composition in two geographically distinct round goby populations in the Baltic Sea. The round goby is a generalist feeder but previous diet studies, based on visual prey identification, have likely over-emphasized the importance of hard-shelled, invertebrate prey in round goby diet, as shells degrade and evacuate slowly relative to soft-bodied prey that break down rapidly in the stomach. We therefore, in addition to visual stomach content analysis, used DNA metabarcoding, which is less biased towards hard body structures of prey and can be used for species assignment of highly degraded prey. The results demonstrated that round goby diet composition varied between areas and years. Visual stomach content analysis indicated that blue mussel was the main prey in the southern area, whereas hydrobiid gastropods were the major diet component in the northern area. Metabarcoding revealed that several fish species, likely the egg or larval stages of e.g. stickleback, cod and herring, were also part of the round goby diet. Analyses suggested that round goby feeding on fishes was positively associated with round goby densities. Our study shows that round goby, in addition to benthic invertebrates, preys on several fish species of ecological and commercial importance. Thus, there is potential for predator-prey reversal and negative effects of the invasive round goby on large, predatory fishes.
CERVICAL MATRIX AS A RESTORATIVE APPROACH IN NON-CARIOUS CERVICAL LESIONS: CASE REPORT
Authors: Oliveira Jannefer Leite de , Rodrigues Adriana Barbosa , Leão Edna Fernanda Dias , Mameluque Soraya , Caldeira Tânia Coelho Rocha , Mendes Danilo Cangussu
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Non-Carious Cervical Lesions (NCCL´s) are pathological conditions of multifactorial etiology. Aim: This case report highlights the use of a cervical matrix for technical simplification of the procedure of class V restoration. Case report: Patient attended a specialized center for diagnosis and treatment of non-carious diseases, complaining of dentin hypersensitivity and aesthetic discomfort due to loss of tooth structure in the cervical region. The proposed treatment plan was basic periodontal treatment and subsequent restoration of all cervical lesions that had a loss of tooth structure greater than 1 mm. The transparent cervical matrix was used to promote correct anatomical contour of the cervical third of the buccal surface and the emergence profile. Conclusion: The use of the cervical matrix is presented as a facilitating tool for the restorative treatment of NCCL´s.
Studies on Multi-step Addition of NMP in (LiNi0.80Co0.15Al0.05) (NCA) Cathode Slurry Preparation and its Rheological, Mechanical Strength and Electrochemical Properties for Li-ion Cells
Authors: Pasala Vasudevarao , Maddukuri Satyanarayana , Sethuraman V. , Lankipalli Rekha , Gajula Devi , Manne Venkateswarlu
Published: June 2023

For electrode stability and the electrochemical performance of the Li-ion cell, it is essential that the active ingredients and unique additives in the polymer binder be well dispersed with the solvent-based slurry. The efficient procedure used to create the slurry affects the rheological characteristics of the electrode slurry. When successively adding different steps of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) solvent to the cathode composition, it is evenly disseminated. The electrochemical performance of the Li-ion cells and the electrodes made with slurry formed by single step and multiple steps of addition of NMP solvent are examined. To preform rheological properties of cathode electrode slurry on Ni-rich Lithium Nickel-Cobalt-Aluminum Oxide (LiNi0.80Co0.15Al0.05) (NCA). Also, we investigate different step addition of electrode formation and mechanical strength characterization like peel strength. According to the EIS study, a multi-step electrode slurry has lower internal resistance than a single-step electrode slurry, which results in better electrical characteristics and efficiency. Further, microstructure of electrodes is obtained electrochemical performance in the 18650 cylindrical cells with targeted capacity of 1.5 Ah. The slurry of electrodes prepared by single step and multiple steps of addition of NMP solvent and its effect on the fabrication of 1.5 Ah cells. A three-step solvent addition on slurry has been found to be a lower internal resistance than a single-step electrode slurry as confirmed by the EIS analysis, yielding improved electrical properties and efficiency.