bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Vehicle Congestion Group Identification for Evaluation of Traffic Flow Parameters
Authors: Drliciak Marek , Cingel Michal , Celko Jan , Panikova Zuzana
Published: February 2024

The traffic flow parameters of the road network are most often evaluated through volumes, which are compared with its maximum volume (capacity) or speed and density. Capacity assessment was performed, considering horizontal and vertical orientation and characteristics of the traffic stream. This article presents the results of research on the identification of different states of creating congestion groups and their relationship to road capacity or decrease in speed. The following hypothesis was verified: when the capacity of the road is exceeded or almost reached, there is “always” a significant drop in the flow of traffic compared to when the capacity is not exceeded. The analysis showed that the average travel speed drops by 30% for the condition where groups of 25 or more vehicles are formed with a time interval of up to 4 s. The results make it possible to set traffic models in short time intervals according to real spatial conditions and to use them in the analysis of the environmental and safety impacts of road transport.
Energy Efficiency Analysis of a Fuel Cell Bus Model Using Real Scenarios Generated by Data Collection
Authors: Cărăușan Horațiu , Varga Bogdan Ovidiu , Moldovanu Dan , Prunean Gabriel , Oargă Ioan-Tudor
Published: February 2024

Modernizing public transportation is crucial, given the ongoing call for sustainable mobility. Growing concerns about climate change and the increasingly stringent emissions standards have compelled public transport operators to embrace alternative propulsion vehicles on a broader scale. For the past years, the Battery Electric Buses (BEBs) have been the vehicle of choice for public transportation. However, an emerging contender in this sector is the Fuel Cell Electric Bus (FCEB). This paper aims to evaluate the way one such vehicle would perform in terms of energy efficiency while being exploited in an urban scenario generated from collected data.
The Responsiveness of Urban Water Demand to Working from Home Intensity
Authors: Moglia Magnus , Nygaard Christian Andi
Published: February 2024

Working from home (WFH) is now widespread around the world. Sustainability benefits can arise from WFH, but there remains limited evidence on resource use and its full sustainability implications. To provide some answers on this issue, we analyse water use data from Sydney, Australia, mapped against mobility changes during the natural experiment that COVID-19-related lockdowns represented. We use an auto-regressive distributed lag model to evaluate how variations in WFH influence the demand for water, after accounting for factors like temperature, rainfall, water restrictions, and so on. We find that in response to a 10% increase in WFH, single residential demand does not significantly change, whilst multi-dwelling demand increases 1%, industrial demand decreases 2%, commercial demand increases 3%, and miscellaneous demand increases 3%. Overall, sectoral changes balance each other out, leaving no significant change in aggregate demand. Our contribution is two-fold. First, we operationalise WFH by looking at the intensity of workplace mobility during the pandemic. Second, we establish disaggregated sectoral water consumption elasticities to WFH and show that aggregate water consumption patterns disguise sectoral changes that relate to where and when water is consumed. These results need to inform infrastructure and water supply–demand planning.
A Review of the Effects of Urban and Green Space Forms on the Carbon Budget Using a Landscape Sustainability Framework
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Fan Chenjing , Xue Dongdong
Published: February 2024

Urban areas and green spaces are significant atmospheric carbon sources and sinks. Spatial planning is crucial for improving the urban carbon budget. However, there are many uncertainties due to the diversity and complexity of the effects of urban and green space forms on the carbon budget. As a result, the role of urban areas and green spaces in emission reduction and carbon sink increases remains ambiguous. We use a landscape sustainability framework and systematically review the literature from 2002 to 2022 to elucidate the interaction between urban and green space forms and the carbon budget. We focus on regional and landscape scales. Nine landscape planning indicators affecting urban area carbon emissions, four indicators affecting green space carbon sinks, and three indicators affecting the urban–green space ecotonal relationship and the carbon budget are derived. We analyze the causes of the differences between the studies and discuss the influences of the indicators on emission reduction, carbon sink increases, and sustainable development. We summarize the design and research of urban and green spaces and the urban–green space ecotone and provide suggestions for carbon emission reduction, carbon sink increases, and research directions for future studies.
Organizational Cybersecurity Systems and Sustainable Business Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Saudi Arabia: The Mediating and Moderating Role of Cybersecurity Resilience and Organizational Culture
Authors: Al-Somali Sabah Abdullah , Saqr Raneem Rashad , Asiri Arwa Mohammed , Al-Somali Najat Abdullah
Published: February 2024

Cybersecurity challenges in Saudi Arabia’s service and manufacturing sectors are escalating due to increased digital adoption, highlighting the need for robust security measures and awareness in SMEs. Therefore, this research is significant due to the increasing reliance on digital technologies and the unique cybersecurity challenges faced by SMEs in these vital economic sectors. With rapid technological advancements, IT capabilities and cybersecurity have become paramount, particularly in the post-COVID-19 era. The service and manufacturing sectors in Saudi Arabia have seen significant shifts towards digital operations. This study aimed to explore the impact of organizational cybersecurity systems on organizational resilience and sustainable business performance in Saudi Arabia’s service and manufacturing sectors, examining the mediating and moderating effects of organizational resilience and culture. A quantitative research method was employed, combining a thorough literature review with empirical data from a sample of 394 respondents in Saudi Arabia, split evenly between the service and manufacturing sectors. Smart PLS 3.3.3 was used to test the proposed hypotheses. The findings suggested a positive effect of the factors of organizational cybersecurity systems on organizational resilience. Organizational cybersecurity systems also significantly influenced sustainable business performance; however, organizational resilience and culture did not play mediating and moderating roles. This study is one of the first to offer a nuanced analysis of IT capabilities and cybersecurity within Saudi Arabia’s service and manufacturing sectors, especially in a post-COVID-19 context. The insights gleaned contribute to the academic discourse and have pivotal managerial implications for organizations navigating the digital era in Saudi Arabia.
Residential Rooftop Urban Agriculture: Architectural Design Recommendations
Authors: Daneshyar Ehsan
Published: February 2024

It is evident that, due to population growth, future urbanization and urban growth are inevitable. It is estimated that the food supply demand of future urban centers will grow, which will place an additional burden on the agriculture sector to produce more food. It is projected that securing the food supply chain for future urban centers will be a challenge. Urban agriculture can be regarded as a remedy for possible future challenges that the global food system will face. It might be able to reduce the future burden on the agriculture sector. This research proposes that urban rooftop agriculture, as a subset of urban agriculture, can produce local fresh food in dense urban environments. The principal aim of this research is to suggest a series of design recommendations for architects interested in designing residential buildings capable of rooftop food production. This research attempts to highlight the specific design recommendations and the principal limitations regarding designing residential rooftop farms. To extract the data for developing the proposed design recommendations and limitations, a review of the literature within the fields of urban agriculture, building-integrated agriculture, and horticulture was conducted. Based on the literature review results, this research suggests that the following three types of farming methods can be developed on residential rooftops: (1) open-air rooftop food production, (2) “low-tech” rooftop greenhouses, and (3) “high-tech” rooftop greenhouses. In addition, factors that can be considered principal limitations are suggested. In sum, this research proposes that current and future residential buildings can be designed so that their rooftops are utilized as farms. In this way, such buildings can contribute to delivering local fresh food to current and future metropolitan dwellers.
Research on the Key Influencing Goals for Visual Design Sustainability: A Dual Perspective
Authors: Lin Chia-Liang , Hsu Ching-Yun , Ting Chu-Ho
Published: February 2024

The United Nations established 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) in 2015, but research on these goals in the visual design industry remains limited. This study introduces a hybrid approach, combining fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) and grey rational analysis (GRA) to assess sustainable factors from the perspectives of both service providers and consumers. In the FAHP model, consumers and visual design professionals had similar views on the ranking of dimensions and indicators. Both reported that the most important dimension for visual design sustainability is the environment. However, the perspective of consumers differed from that of visual design practitioners in the GRA model, as consumers argued that the social aspect has the greatest impact on visual design sustainability, while practitioners believed that the environmental aspect is the most important. The main contribution of the study is to emphasise that the hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) mode can help the visual design industry align its services to consumer expectations. A systematic and objective model that presents practical insights relevant to industry is offered by this model. It also serves as a valuable reference for future research in similar areas.
Cultivating Sustainability: Quebec’s Living Labs as Ecological Catalysts
Authors: Bagoudou Labo Oubaida , Zhegu Majlinda , Merveille Nicolas
Published: February 2024

Agriculture is often considered a major factor in environmental degradation. This case study delves into the use of sociotechnical experiments—and, more specifically, agroecosystem living labs (ALLs)—to facilitate the transition of conventional agricultural practices toward heightened sustainability. Our research indicates that achieving successful collaboration, such as an experiment, necessitates the alignment of expectations, the establishment of trust, the cultivation of patience, and the allocation of substantial resources. This investigation into agroecosystem living labs contributes to our comprehension of the actors’ networks, their interactions with experimental sites, and the dynamics of open innovation.
Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Engineering: Products, Services, Technologies, and Social Inclusivity with a Gender Approach
Authors: Bustamante-Mora Ana , Diéguez-Rebolledo Mauricio , Hormazábal Yemsy , Millar Lorena , Cadena Rodrigo
Published: February 2024

Today, sustainable engineering faces challenges, highlighting the need to develop sustainable technologies and systems to support these new engineering projects and services. These sustainable engineering challenges aim to achieve a balance between people and the planet. To this end, 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 targets have been formulated, constituting the internationally accepted global sustainability aspirations for 2030. To address this issue, it is necessary to characterize its product life cycle; if there are models for the integration of sustainable engineering in policies, strategies, and programs of public and private institutions, what would be its impact at economic and social levels and its sustainable social engineering, and how would the gender approach impact these areas since it is an inclusive part of the SDG 2030 and plays a relevant role? This research analyzes models of social inclusiveness, engineering products and services for sustainability, and integration into sustainable development goals of engineering products and technology, reviewing whether gender equality or equity is present in their application and development. This study highlights relevant initiatives and the most used technological tools. The PRISMA protocol directed this study, which identified 252 pertinent articles for analysis and suggested effective practices for employing products, services, and technologies to advance sustainable engineering in the near term.
Landscape, Water, Ground, and Society Sustainability under the Global Change Scenarios
Authors: Cianfaglione Kevin , Bănăduc Doru
Published: February 2024

The increasing human world population and its hunger for space, ecosystem services, energy, and other natural resources are widely indicated as the main causes of human negative impact, together with the dominant cultural model and the currently predominant economic type of development [...]
Green Consumerism in Young Adults: Attitudes and Awareness in University Students in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Mbokane Lindokule , Modley Lee-Ann
Published: February 2024

Unsustainable consumption of resources remains one of the significant environmental issues that prevent the achievement of sustainable development. Green consumerism forms part of the solutions to decrease unsustainable consumption globally. This study aimed to determine the level of awareness and attitudes of students at the University of Johannesburg towards green consumerism. Data was collected using an online questionnaire, and 404 questionnaires were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis and R-studio, which was used to generate a generalized linear model. There was a significant relationship between income and faculty, showing that these factors influenced the participants’ level of awareness regarding green consumerism. The purchasing behavior of the participants is mostly influenced by the price and quality of products instead of the impact of a product on the environment. Overall, this study contributes to the existing literature on green consumerism concerning students. It recommends companies ensure that the prices of eco-friendly products are affordable and that companies should increase their green initiatives so that customers can be more aware of green consumerism.
Mapping the Sustainable Development in Health Tourism: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Figueiredo Natália , Abrantes José Luís , Costa Sandra
Published: February 2024

Health tourism is recognised as a growing industry. Therefore, sustainable development in health tourism is crucial not only for the well-being of patients but also for destinations and communities. In this sense, sustainable development in health tourism aims to develop solutions related to the environmental, social, and economic challenges faced by the country and the tourism sector. After the COVID-19 pandemic, health tourism has become popular, and despite the increase in research related to the theme, the existing literature is still relatively fragmented and lacks a comprehensive view. This study addresses this gap by investigating sustainable development in health tourism through a systematic literature review. Ninety-three articles were collected from the Web of Science database. After subjecting them to bibliometric analysis, it is possible to examine the topic’s current state of the art. This research permits the systematisation of the existing literature into five areas: (1) stakeholders of sustainable tourism, (2) impact of COVID-19, (3) health tourism, (4) challenges and opportunities, and (5) sustainability values. This research provides significant contributions to the field of sustainable development in health tourism. Firstly, it sheds light on aspects that previous literature has examined, offering valuable insights into the drivers of sustainable development in health tourism, thus enriching our comprehension of the subject. Additionally, the article delineates a prospective research agenda, suggesting various directions that can lay the foundation for upcoming inquiries and the development of pertinent theories for assessing the impact of sustainable development in health tourism.
Carbon Farming: Bridging Technology Development with Policy Goals
Authors: Kyriakarakos George , Petropoulos Theodoros , Marinoudi Vasso , Berruto Remigio , Bochtis Dionysis
Published: February 2024

This paper conducts an in-depth exploration of carbon farming at the confluence of advanced technology and EU policy, particularly within the context of the European Green Deal. Emphasizing technologies at technology readiness levels (TRL) 6–9, the study critically analyzes and synthesizes their practical implementation potential in the agricultural sector. Methodologically, the paper integrates a review of current technologies with an analysis of EU policy frameworks, focusing on the practical application of these technologies in alignment with policy directives. The results demonstrate a symbiotic relationship between emerging carbon farming technologies and evolving EU policies, highlighting how technological advancements can be effectively integrated within existing and proposed legal structures. This alignment is crucial for fostering practical, market-ready, and sustainable agricultural practices. Significantly, this study underscores the importance of bridging theoretical research with commercialization. It proposes a pathway for transitioning current research insights into innovative, market-responsive products, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. This approach not only aligns with the European Green Deal but also addresses market demands and environmental policy evolution. In conclusion, the paper serves as a critical link between theoretical advancements and practical applications in sustainable carbon farming. It offers a comprehensive understanding of both the technological and policy landscapes, aiming to propel practical, sustainable solutions in step with dynamic environmental policy goals.
Business Models and Ecosystems in the Circular Economy Using the Example of Battery Second Use Storage Systems
Authors: Meyer David , Schaupensteiner Nils , Riquel Johannes
Published: February 2024

The battery electric drive is an important component of sustainable mobility. However, this is associated with energy-intensive battery production and high demand for raw materials. The circular economy can be used to overcome these barriers. In particular, the secondary use of batteries in stationary energy storage systems (B2U storage systems) has been proposed for the circularity of electromobility. To implement such systems, a circular business model and a cross-industry ecosystem are required. However, the meaning, scope, and structure of these concepts have received little research to date. To close this gap, a theoretical construct for a circular business model based on the theory of business model, sustainability, circular economy, and ecosystem must be developed. On this basis, 16 expert interviews were conducted and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Numerous challenges resulted from the analysis. The willingness to pay for B2U storage systems is limited, the availability of second-life batteries is restricted, and dismantling as well as testing the batteries is time-consuming. Product-service systems help to increase the willingness to pay and expand the value proposition and value capture, digital technologies realize cost-efficient value creation, and an effective ecosystem enables the expansion of battery procurement.
Edge–Cloud Collaborative Optimization Scheduling of an Industrial Park Integrated Energy System
Authors: Liu Gengshun , Song Xinfu , Xin Chaoshan , Liang Tianbao , Li Yang , Liu Kun
Published: February 2024

Due to the large proportion of China’s energy consumption used by industry, in response to the national strategic goal of “carbon peak and carbon neutrality” put forward by the Chinese government, it is urgent to improve energy efficiency in the industrial field. This paper focuses on the optimization of an integrated energy system with supply–demand coordination in an industrial park. This optimization is formulated as a “node-flow” model. Within the model, each node is designed according to the objective function of its own operation and the energy coupling relationship. The flow model is designed based on the energy flow interaction relationship between each node. Based on the “node-flow” model, an edge–cloud information interaction mechanism based on energy transfer balance between nodes is proposed to describe the way the system interacts with information, and a distributed iterative optimization algorithm based on edge–cloud collaboration is designed to realize the optimization decision of each node. The performance of the method proposed in this paper is demonstrated using a practical case study of an industrial park integrated energy system in Xinjiang. The results show that the proposed model can effectively improve the utilization efficiency of multi-energy synergy and complementation in the industrial park, and the proposed algorithm can shorten the solution time by more than 50% without significantly affecting the accuracy of the solution.
Exploring Urban Compactness and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the Road Transport Sector: A Case Study of Big Cities in South Korea
Authors: Park Jiyong , Jung Seunghyun
Published: February 2024

This study examined the relationship between urban compactness and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the road transport sector in South Korea, focusing on 84 cities, particularly 27 metropolitan areas with populations of approximately 500,000. We developed an urban compactness index (UCI) using Moran’s I, entropy, and the Gini coefficient, integrating city size into the analysis. Cities were categorized into five groups based on their size to analyze GHG emissions and regional variations in compactness comparatively. Our results revealed a significant inverse relationship between UCI and per capita road transport GHG emissions, which was more pronounced in larger cities. Specifically, cities with a population over 1 million displayed reduced per capita road transport GHG emissions in compact urban structures. In conclusion, these findings suggest that larger cities can effectively reduce per capita road transport GHG emissions through urban planning for compact development. Additionally, planners need to consider city size when analyzing the UCI and formulating urban planning strategies aimed at achieving carbon neutrality.
Outsourcing or Authorizing? Optimal Options for Third-Party Remanufacturing Modes with Green Consumerism
Authors: Wu Juncheng , Zhang Lei , Shen Xuan
Published: February 2024

In recent decades, more and more consumers are becoming concerned about the environment and increasingly tend to buy remanufactured products. However, despite the emergence of green consumerism, many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are unlikely to engage in remanufacturing themselves and instead prefer to contract it to third-party remanufacturers (TPRs). Although the literature has recently highlighted the difference between outsourcing and authorizing remanufacturing, it does not explore how green consumerism impacts the choice between these two remanufacturing modes. To fill this gap, in this study, we develop two theoretical models according to which the OEM can outsource or authorize its remanufacturing operations to a TPR to satisfy green consumers who prefer remanufactured products. By comparing optimal outcomes, such as quantities, profit, and environmental factors, our analysis shows that a substantial proportion of environmentally conscious consumers prefer the strategy of remanufacturing outsourcing, which provides a win–win–win strategy for the OEM, the TPR, and the environment; otherwise, the OEM chooses to authorize remanufacturing, which negatively affects the TPR and the environment. As such, we suggest that governments try to increase the proportion of the population that favors green consumerism or implement measures that encourage OEMs to adopt remanufacturing outsourcing.
Tragedy of the Commons in a Mediterranean MPA: The Case of Gyaros Island Marine Reserve
Authors: Damalas Dimitrios , Kotomatas Spyros , Alberini Amalia , Stamouli Caterina , Fotiadis Nikolaos
Published: February 2024

Gyaros Island (Aegean Sea) is a recently (2019) established MPA in the Mediterranean Sea, allowing spatiotemporal small-scale fishing (SSF) activities with specific access rules. However, due to the inability of the state authorities to establish any fishing permit process, Gyaros MPA initially functioned as a No-Take Zone (NTZ), offering a rare opportunity for scientific monitoring. Significant political pressure by fisher organizations led to the opening of the MPA in June 2022 without any fishing permit restriction. The unprecedented ‘race for fish’ that followed led to a significant deterioration of the MPA status, as confirmed by scientific monitoring before and after the opening. Outcry from national media, based on concerns raised by the scientific community and NGOs, resulted in lifting access to fishing in September 2022, upgrading Gyaros MPA to a full NTZ. This study aimed to assess if and how the MPA functioning was impacted based on a series of experimental fishing trials and questionnaire surveys conducted with local fishers. Although a substantial part of the fishing community’s mindset is embracing MPAs, our results also suggest that the self-interests of a fishers’ minority, along with non-science-based policy by the national authorities, have led to overfishing and deterioration of MPA status.
A Critical Review on Methodologies for the Energy Benchmarking of Wastewater Treatment Plants
Authors: Gallo Michela , Malluta Desara , Del Borghi Adriana , Gagliano Erica
Published: February 2024

The main priority at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) is the attainment of a high quality of treated effluent ensuring the highly effective removal of pollutants and protecting the environment and public health. However, WWTPs are made of energy-intensive processes and consequently, they are considered major energy consumers in the public sector. The need to move towards energy neutrality in the wastewater sector was recently pointed out by the proposal of a recast Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. To date, a comprehensive methodology for energy audits at WWTPs is still missing. The present review aims at discussing the state of the art on energy consumption at WWTPs and at surveying the energy benchmarking methodologies currently available highlighting the main advantages and limitations. It was pointed out that aeration represents the highest energy-intensive compartment in WWTPs (40–75% of total energy). The wide overview provided by key performance indicators (KPIs) might be overcome by applying benchmarking methodologies based on data envelopment analysis (DEA). The latest is properly designed for WWTPs and able to manage multiple inputs and outputs. However, the obtained findings are often limited and fragmented, making the standardization of the methodology difficult. Consequently, future investigations are advised on the development of standard procedures related to data acquisition and collection and on the implementation of online and real-time monitoring. Considering the lack of standardized methodology for the energy benchmarking of WWTPs, the present article will provide essential information to guide future research, helping WWTP utilities to reach the energy audit goals in the accomplishment of incoming EU directives.
Review of Organic Rankine Cycles for Internal Combustion Engine Waste Heat Recovery: Latest Decade in Review
Authors: Sprouse Charles E.
Published: February 2024

The last decade (2013–2023) was the most prolific period of organic Rankine cycle (ORC) research in history in terms of both publications and citations. This article provides a detailed review of the broad and voluminous collection of recent internal combustion engine (ICE) waste heat recovery (WHR) studies, serving as a necessary follow-on to the author’s 2013 review. Research efforts have targeted diverse applications (e.g., vehicular, stationary, and building-based), and it spans the full gamut of engine sizes and fuels. Furthermore, cycle configurations extend far beyond basic ORC and regenerative ORC, particularly with supercritical, trilateral, and multi-loop ORCs. Significant attention has been garnered by fourth-generation refrigerants like HFOs (hydrofluoroolefins), HFEs (hydrofluoroethers), natural refrigerants, and zeotropic mixtures, as research has migrated away from the popular HFC-245fa (hydrofluorocarbon). Performance-wise, the period was marked by a growing recognition of the diminished performance of physical systems under dynamic source conditions, especially compared to steady-state simulations. Through advancements in system control, especially using improved model predictive controllers, dynamics-based losses have been significantly reduced. Regarding practically minded investigations, research efforts have ameliorated working fluid flammability risks, limited thermal degradation, and pursued cost savings. State-of-the-art system designs and operational targets have emerged through increasingly sophisticated optimization efforts, with some studies leveraging “big data” and artificial intelligence. Major programs like SuperTruck II have further established the ongoing challenges of simultaneously meeting cost, size, and performance goals; however, off-the-shelf organic Rankine cycle systems are available today for engine waste heat recovery, signaling initial market penetration. Continuing forward, next-generation engines can be designed specifically as topping cycles for an organic Rankine (bottoming) cycle, with both power sources integrated into advanced hybrid drivetrains.
Seat Pressure Asymmetries after Cycling at Constant Intensity
Authors: Lepasalu Laura , Ereline Jaan , Reinvee Märt , Pääsuke Mati
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to compare seat pressure asymmetries before and after 30 min cycling at constant intensity in association with pelvic anthropometric parameters and skeletal muscle fatigue. Twelve male road cyclists aged 18–30 years (mean training experience 9.9 ± 2.5 years) participated. Pelvic anthropometric data and body composition were measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Participants performed 30 min cycling at 50% peak power output at constant intensity on a cyclus-2 ergometer. Muscle fatigue during cycling was assessed by surface electromyogram spectral mean power frequency (MPF) for the back, gluteal, and thigh muscles. The pressure mapping system was used to assess sitting symmetry before and after the cycling exercise. At the end of cycling, MPF was decreased (p < 0.05) in the dominant side’s erector spinae muscle and the contralateral gluteal muscle. After the exercise, a significant (p < 0.05) asymmetry in seat pressure was observed under the ischial tuberosity based on the peak pressure right to left ratio, whereas peak pressure decreased under the left ischial tuberosity. After the exercise, the relationship (p < 0.05) between pelvis width and pressure under the ischial tuberosity occurred on the dominant side of the body. In conclusion, an asymmetry was revealed after the constant-load cycling exercise by peak pressure ratio right to left side. Further studies should address the role of seat pressure asymmetries before and after cycling exercises at different intensities and durations.
Response Time of Queueing Mechanisms
Authors: Chydzinski Andrzej , Adamczyk Blazej
Published: February 2024

We study response time, a key performance characteristic of queueing mechanisms. The studied model incorporates both active and passive queue management, arbitrary service time distribution, as well as a complex model of arrivals. Therefore, the obtained formulas can be used to calculate the response time of many real queueing mechanisms with different features, by parameterizing adequately the general model considered here. The paper consists of two parts. In the first, mathematical part, we derive the distribution function for the response time, its density, and the mean value. This is done by constructing two systems of integral equations, for the distribution function and the mean value, respectively, and solving these systems with transform techniques. All the characteristics are derived both in the time-dependent and steady-state cases. In the second part, we present numerical values of the response time for a few system parameterizations and point out several of its properties, some rather counterintuitive.
Improved Oversampling Algorithm for Imbalanced Data Based on K-Nearest Neighbor and Interpolation Process Optimization
Authors: Chen Yiheng , Zou Jinbai , Liu Lihai , Hu Chuanbo
Published: February 2024

The problems of imbalanced datasets are generally considered asymmetric issues. In asymmetric problems, artificial intelligence models may exhibit different biases or preferences when dealing with different classes. In the process of addressing class imbalance learning problems, the classification model will pay too much attention to the majority class samples and cannot guarantee the classification performance of the minority class samples, which might be more valuable. By synthesizing the minority class samples and changing the data distribution, unbalanced datasets can be optimized. Traditional oversampling algorithms have problems of blindness and boundary ambiguity when synthesizing new samples. A modified reclassification algorithm based on Gaussian distribution is put forward. First, the minority class samples are reclassified by the KNN algorithm. Then, different synthesis strategies are selected according to the combination of the minority class samples, and the Gaussian distribution is used to replace the uniform random distribution for interpolation operation under certain classification conditions to reduce the possibility of generating noise samples. The experimental results indicate that the proposed oversampling algorithm can achieve a performance improvement of 2∼8% in evaluation metrics, including G-mean, F-measure, and AUC, compared to traditional oversampling algorithms.
Towards an Integrated Online–Offline Healthcare System: Exploring Chinese Patients’ Preferences for Outpatient Follow-Up Visits Using a Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Chen Nan , Bai Dan , Lv Na
Published: February 2024

Public hospitals in China are working to build an integrated online–offline healthcare system that combines telehealth and traditional healthcare to better serve patients. This study aims to explore Chinese patients’ preferences for online versus offline outpatient follow-up visits after the COVID-19 pandemic and to inform healthcare providers in designing optimal service delivery programmes. A discrete choice experiment was designed to elicit respondents’ stated preferences. A total of 311 valid respondents were recruited. Analysis of the full sample showed that respondents preferred traditional, offline outpatient follow-up visits. Nevertheless, a class of respondents was identified who preferred online outpatient follow-up visits. Our results show that Chinese patients are currently generally cautious about online outpatient follow-up visits since there is proportion of potentially targeted patients who stated a preference for online visits while the overall preference is still offline, in-person follow-up visits. Online outpatient follow-up visits could be attractive alternatives to traditional visits if they could meet potential users’ preferences for shorter waiting time for appointments, lower service cost, and continuity of follow-up visits. This study also suggests that it is necessary and worthwhile for healthcare providers to further explore the optimal integration of telehealth services with traditional healthcare.
Antibiotic Residues in UK Foods: Exploring the Exposure Pathways and Associated Health Risks
Authors: Seo Jegak , Kloprogge Frank , Smith Andrew M. , Karu Kersti , Ciric Lena
Published: February 2024

While the use of antibiotics has been reported as extensive in the rearing of agricultural animals, insufficient information is available on the antibiotic residues in animal products and the adverse impact that consistent low-level exposure to antibiotics might have on the human body and its microbiome. The aim of this study was to estimate the antibiotic concentrations that humans are exposed to via their diet using the concentration of antibiotics in animal food products and water and an online survey on dietary intake. A total of 131 participants completed the dietary intake survey, with the majority belonging to the omnivorous diet group (76.3%). Distinct dietary trends were observed in the omnivorous and unknown groups eating animal products, with specific food types dominating each meal: pork (e.g., ham) and dairy products (e.g., milk, yoghurt) during breakfast, beef (e.g., burgers) and chicken (e.g., chicken breast) products during lunch, and fish (e.g., salmon fillet) during dinner. In total, 34 different animal-based food and drink products were tested for the presence of ten different antibiotics. Of all the products tested, over 35% exceeded the acceptable daily antibiotic intake for amoxicillin, ampicillin, and enrofloxacin.
Behavioral Studies of Zebrafish Reveal a New Perspective on the Reproductive Toxicity of Micro- and Nanoplastics
Authors: Wu Baihui , Yu Haiyang , Yi Jia , Lei Pengyu , He Jiaxuan , Ruan Jing , Xu Peiye , Tao Runchao , Jin Libo , Wu Wei , Yang Qinsi , Sun Da , Zhang Xiaoqun
Published: February 2024

The escalating prevalence of microplastics and nanoplastics in aquatic environments is a major challenge affecting the behavior and reproductive health of aquatic organisms while posing potential risks to human health and ecosystems. This review focuses on the neurobehavioral changes and reproductive toxicity of MNPs in zebrafish and their relationships. At the same time, the neurobehavioral changes caused by MNPs were studied, and the synergistic effects of the interaction of these pollutants with other environmental contaminants were explored. In addition, zebrafish, as a model organism, provide valuable insights into the subtle but important effects of MNPs on reproductive behavior, which is critical for understanding reproductive success, suggesting that behavioral changes can serve as an early biomarker of reproductive toxicity. In addition, based on classical endocrine disruptor models and behavioral research methods, the current status of the research on the reproductive toxicity of MNPs in zebrafish was reviewed, which further indicated that the behavioral parameters of zebrafish can be used as an effective and rapid tool to evaluate the reproductive toxicity of MNPs. However, behavioral methods for rapidly assessing the toxicity of MNPs are still an area of exploration. To address limitations and challenges in the current scope of research, this review outlines future research directions with the aim of improving our understanding of the environmental and health impacts of MNPs. This work aims to inform targeted environmental policies and advance public health strategies to address the growing challenge of MNPs pollution.
Identification of a Potential Entry-Fusion Complex Based on Sequence Homology of African Swine Fever and Vaccinia Virus
Authors: Urquiza Jesús , Cuesta-Geijo Miguel Ángel , García-Dorival Isabel , Fernández Óscar , del Puerto Ana , Díaz José Fernando , Alonso Covadonga
Published: February 2024

African swine fever virus (ASFV) belongs to the family of Asfarviridae, part of the group of nucleocytoplasmic large DNA viruses (NCLDV). Little is known about the internalization of ASFV in the host cell and the fusion membrane events that take place at early stages of the infection. Poxviruses, also members of the NCLDV and represented by vaccinia virus (VACV), are large, enveloped, double-stranded DNA viruses. Poxviruses were considered unique in having an elaborate entry-fusion complex (EFC) composed of 11 highly conserved proteins integrated into the membrane of mature virions. Recent advances in methodological techniques have again revealed several connections between VACV EFC proteins. In this study, we explored the possibility of an analogous ASFV EFC by identifying ten candidate proteins exhibiting structural similarities with VACV EFC proteins. This could reveal key functions of these ASFV proteins, drawing attention to shared features between the two virus families, suggesting the potential existence of an ASFV entry-fusion complex.
Tixagevimab/Cilgavimab: Still a Valid Prophylaxis against COVID-19 New Variants?
Authors: Gidari Anna , Sabbatini Samuele , Bastianelli Sabrina , Pierucci Sara , Busti Chiara , Svizzeretto Elisabetta , Tommasi Andrea , Pallotto Carlo , Schiaroli Elisabetta , Francisci Daniela
Published: February 2024

Background: this study aims to evaluate the efficacy of tixagevimab/cilgavimab (Evusheld™) against various SARS-CoV-2 variants, including newer Omicron sublineages, in an immunocompromised cohort and in vitro. Study design: Conducted in Italy, this research involves immunocompromised patients who received Evusheld. It evaluates serum neutralization activity against different SARS-CoV-2 strains (20A.EU1, BA.5, BQ.1, XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16, and EG.5) before (T0), after 14 (T1), and after 30 (T2) days from the tixagevimab/cilgavimab injection. Furthermore, the in vitro activity of Evusheld against SARS-CoV-2 VOCs was evaluated. Results: The cohort was composed of 72 immunocompromised patients. The serum neutralizing activity of tixagevimab/cilgavimab-treated patients was notably lower against newer variants such as BQ.1, XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16, and EG.5. Then, the in vitro study detailed specific EC50 values to quantify the activity of tixagevimab/cilgavimab against various SARS-CoV-2 VOCs. Newer variants like BQ.1 and XBB.1.5 exhibited notably lower neutralization, underscoring the challenges in effectively countering the evolving virus. Interestingly, tixagevimab/cilgavimab maintained reduced but still valid activity against EG.5 with an EC50 of 189 ng/mL and Cmax/EC90 of 110.7. Conclusions: Tixagevimab/cilgavimab efficacy wanes against novel subvariants. This underscores the critical need for ongoing adaptation and vigilance in prophylactic strategies to effectively counter the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Identification of Mycoviruses in the Pathogens of Fragrant Pear Valsa Canker from Xinjiang in China
Authors: Zhang Chenguang , Zheng Xiaoya , Tie Zhanjiang , Xi Hui , Shi Mai , Ma Yanjun , Chen Wenbin , Mi Yingjie , Yang Rui , Zhao Sifeng , Zhang Xuekun
Published: February 2024

As a common disease, canker seriously affects the yield and quality of fragrant pear due to the lack of effective control measures. Some fungi have been reported to harbor rich reservoirs of viral resources, and some mycoviruses can be used as biocontrol agents against plant diseases. In this study, 199 isolates were obtained from diseased branches of fragrant pear in the main production areas of Xinjiang. Among them, 134 belonged to Valsa spp., identified using morphological and molecular biological techniques, in which V. mali was the dominant species. The mycoviruses in Valsa spp. were further identified using metatranscriptomic sequencing and RT-PCR. The results revealed that a total of seven mycoviruses were identified, belonging to Botourmiaviridae, Endornaviridae, Fusariviridae, Hypoviridae, Mitoviridae, and Narnaviridae, among which Phomopsis longicolla hypovirus (PlHV) was dominant in all the sample collection regions. The Cryphonectria hypovirus 3-XJ1 (CHV3-XJ1), Botourmiaviridae sp.-XJ1 (BVsp-XJ1), and Fusariviridae sp.-XJ1 (Fvsp-XJ1) were new mycoviruses discovered within the Valsa spp. More importantly, compared with those in the virus-free Valsa spp. strain, the growth rate and virulence of the VN-5 strain co-infected with PlHV and CHV3-XJ1 were reduced by 59% and 75%, respectively, and the growth rate and virulence of the VN-34 strain infected with PlHV were reduced by 42% and 55%, respectively. On the other hand, the horizontal transmission efficiency of PlHV decreased when PlHV was co-infected with CHV3-XJ1, indicating that PlHV and CHV3-XJ1 were antagonistic. In summary, the mycoviruses in Valsa spp. were identified in Xinjiang for the first time, and three of them were newly discovered mycoviruses, with two strains yielding good results. These results will offer potential biocontrol resources for managing pear canker disease and provide a theoretical basis for the control of fruit tree Valsa canker disease.
Genetics of H5N1 and H5N8 High-Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Viruses Isolated in Japan in Winter 2021–2022
Authors: Mine Junki , Takadate Yoshihiro , Kumagai Asuka , Sakuma Saki , Tsunekuni Ryota , Miyazawa Kohtaro , Uchida Yuko
Published: February 2024

In winter 2021–2022, H5N1 and H5N8 high-pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) viruses (HPAIVs) caused serious outbreaks in Japan: 25 outbreaks of HPAI at poultry farms and 107 cases in wild birds or in the environment. Phylogenetic analyses divided H5 HPAIVs isolated in Japan in the winter of 2021–2022 into three groups—G2a, G2b, and G2d—which were disseminated at different locations and times. Full-genome sequencing analyses of these HPAIVs revealed a strong relationship of multiple genes between Japan and Siberia, suggesting that they arose from reassortment events with avian influenza viruses (AIVs) in Siberia. The results emphasize the complex of dissemination and reassortment events with the movement of migratory birds, and the importance of continual monitoring of AIVs in Japan and Siberia for early alerts to the intrusion of HPAIVs.