bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Computational Model for Determining Tiger Dispersal and Related Patterns in a Landscape Complex
Authors: Shanu Saurabh , Agarwal Alok
Published: May 2023

Species dispersal from one territorial zone to another is a complex process. The reasons for species dispersal are determined by both natural and human factors. The purpose of this study is to develop a cost surface for a hypothetical landscape that accounts for various species dispersion features. With tigers (Panthera tigris tigris) as the focal species, a computational model for a landscape has been proposed to predict the dispersion patterns of the species’ individuals from one habitat patch to another. Knowing how tigers disperse is very crucial because it improves the likelihood of successful conservation. The likelihood is raised because it strengthens conservation efforts in the targeted regions identified by the proposed model and encourages landscape continuity for tiger dispersal. Initially, four major factors influencing tiger dispersal are explored. Following that, grids are overlaid over the tiger-carrying landscape map. Further, game theory assigns a score to each grid in the landscape matrix based on the landscape features in the focal landscape. Specific predefined ratings are also utilized for scenarios that are very complex and may change depending on variables, such as the interaction of the dispersing tiger with co-predators. The two scores mentioned above are combined to create a cost matrix that is shown across a landscape complex to estimate the impact of each landscape component on tiger dispersal. This approach helps wildlife managers develop conservation plans by recognizing important characteristics in the landscape. The results of the model described in this work might be beneficial for a wide range of wildlife management activities, such as corridor management, smart patrols, and so on. A cost surface over any focal landscape may serve as a basis for policy and purpose design based on current landscape conditions.
Mechanical Properties, Durability, and Structural Applications of Rubber Concrete: A State-of-the-Art-Review
Authors: He Shaohua , Jiang Zheng , Chen Huanwei , Chen Zhiliang , Ding Jianming , Deng Haidong , Mosallam Ayman S.
Published: May 2023

Substituting rubber particles for a portion of the standard coarse aggregates in concrete is regarded as a sustainable solution for tackling the issue of waste-tires disposal. In order to assess the structural performance of rubber concrete (RC), many studies have been conducted on the proportions, mechanical properties, curing conditions, usages, and serviceability performance of the material over the decades. This review systematically summarizes the mechanical properties (e.g., static and dynamic), testing method, and durability of RC, emphasizing its dynamic characteristics from the perspectives of material and component. The inclusion of rubber particles weakens the static properties of the concrete, while the low module of inherent rubbers improves the concrete dynamic properties, such as low stiffness degradation, high strain-rate sensitivity, excellent energy dissipations, and good ductility. With the increase in the strain rate, the improvement in energy absorption and ductility of the RC (0 to 30%) can increase to 110% and 80%, respectively. Concrete with a rubber volume fraction of less than 30% enhances both mechanical and long-term environmental performances. Moreover, RC shows good fire resistance, permeability, and freeze–thaw behavior; however, further research is needed to understand its constitutive model and the synergistic effects of additional materials.
Life Cycle Thinking for a Circular Bioeconomy: Current Development, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ramos Huarachi Diego Alexis , Hluszko Cleiton , Ulloa Micaela Ines Castillo , Moretti Vinicius , Ramos Quispe Julio Abraham , Puglieri Fabio Neves , Francisco Antonio Carlos de
Published: May 2023

The circular bioeconomy (CBE) is an increasingly popular method used to add value to bio-based products. However, these products entail impacts on sustainability that can be assessed by life cycle thinking (LCT). Therefore, this manuscript aims to describe the current development of using LCT for a CBE and to identify challenges and future perspectives with regard to this topic. A systematic literature review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), analyzing a final portfolio of 57 documents. The results indicated that the use of LCT for a CBE is very recent and has been increasing over the years, is concentrated in Europe, and mainly assesses the conversion of biowastes in biofuels through biorefinery processes, considering mostly environmental concerns, by applying life cycle assessment; thus neglecting economic and social issues. The use of system boundaries, software, databases, and impact assessment methods was reviewed. Five challenges were revealed (the expansion of system boundaries, the consideration of more endpoints, the development and use of regional databases, the development of policies to encourage CBE, and the addition of economic and social issues. Future perspectives will be aimed at considering microalgae, wastewater, and animal biomass in CBE processes, developing more value-added bioproducts and biofuels, and adding cost assessment and more circularity to CBE processes.
Innovative Almond-Growing Strategy in Ukraine: Enterprise Level
Authors: Lutsiak Vitalii , Hutsol Taras , Kovtun Olena , Koberniuk Olena , Malaga-Toboła Urszula , Lis Aleksandra , Zarajczyk Janusz , Yefimenko Liudmyla , Pavlenko-Didur Krystyna
Published: May 2023

Almond production in Ukraine is undergoing the process of formation. There is an urgent need to study the almond market in Ukraine, including the formation of production strategies. A content analysis of the scientific literature was used to single out the general approach for enterprise strategy development. With a view toward determining the regions in Ukraine with the most concentrated production of almonds, a cluster analysis was carried out. To maintain the SWOT analysis for the producers of almonds in Ukraine, a factor analysis was conducted. The incoming data for the factor analysis was obtained by surveying 98 domestic almond companies. For the development of product-based conceptual models, frequency analysis and multiple-choice analysis were applied. The main results included a conceptual model of the product portfolio, a generalized product portfolio for nut-producing enterprises in Ukraine, and a strategic approach for an almond-growing enterprise in Ukraine. Given the most promising regions for almond growing in Ukraine, the main SWOT analysis results outlined the broad prospects: lack of competition, high demand, and government support along with weak sector organization and opportunistic strategy. In addition, almond production fell under the investment production category, which was considered to require new employees.
Consumer Intention to Buy Electric Cars: Integrating Uncertainty in the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Riverso Roberta , Altamura Carmela , La Barbera Francesco
Published: May 2023

The EU’s political agenda has included among its priorities the issue of sustainable mobility, with the aim of curbing CO2 emissions and reducing air pollution. This objective implies the introduction into the EU car market of low-polluting cars, such as cars powered by an electric battery (BEV). The current research was guided by the theory of planned behavior (TPB). The intention to buy a BEV has been measured, as well as the major TPB constructs, namely attitudes, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control. In addition, we were interested to understand the influence of individuals’ uncertainty on the intention to buy a BEV. Data collected through an online survey (N = 335) were analyzed by means of a multiple mediation model, involving the three TPB constructs as parallel mediators. Results show that (1) attitude (β = 0.67), subjective norm (β = 0.23), and perceived behavioral control (β = 0.22) significantly predict the intention to buy BEVs; (2) uncertainty has a significant negative indirect effect (b = −0.03) on intention via perceived behavioral control. Results are discussed in relation to previous research and possible practical implications.
Assessment of Localized Targets of Sustainable Development Goals and Future Development on Hainan Island
Authors: Zhang Xinyi , Zhang Li , Bai Linyan , Liao Jingjuan , Chen Bowei , Yan Min
Published: May 2023

Hainan Island in southern China has strong ecological systems and natural resources relevant to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The island has been focusing on economic development and building a national park and a free trade port to improve the economy and people’s lives. However, current research on Hainan’s SDGs has mainly focused on urban-related indicators (SDG11), resulting in an incomplete evaluation across SDGs. It is necessary to establish a comprehensive assessment framework that incorporates a greater number of indicators for Sustainable Development Goals in Hainan. Based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Assessment System and the current situation in Hainan, a localized study has been conducted on indicators for Sustainable Development Goals 1–4 and 6–11. Our analysis of target scores, SDG scores, and SDG index scores shows the following: (1) The sustainable development of Hainan Island has significantly improved since 2015, with SDGs 1, 3, and 10 showing the largest improvement; (2) most cities and counties have increased their SDG index scores, with Sanya City replacing Haikou City as the top scorer in 2021; and (3) the sustainable development levels are unevenly distributed, with high levels in the north and south, stable levels in the east, and low levels in the central and western regions. Policies, such as the “Haicheng Wending” comprehensive economic circle, are promoting integration between cities and counties. The study provides a localized evaluation framework and methodology for SDGs assessment at the regional level that can serve as a reference for similar work on sustainable development in similar regions and tropical islands worldwide.
Determinants of Organic Food Consumption in Narrowing the Green Gap
Authors: Chekima Brahim , Bouteraa Mohamed , Ansar Rudy , Lada Suddin , Fook Lim Ming , Tamma Elhachemi , Abdul Adis Azaze-Azizi , Chekima Khadidja
Published: May 2023

Understanding and recognising environmentally-friendly behaviour are vital in achieving the Sustainability Development Goals and driving the economy for countries and producers of environmentally-friendly goods. Nevertheless, various stakeholders have expressed concern about the existing green gap, which greatly hinders their marketing efforts. This situation persists as mainstream research investigates people’s purchasing intentions, under the notion that the intention to perform a specific behaviour would generally predict the actual behaviour. The key argument of this study is that examining the actual consumption behaviour of organic foods is the ideal approach towards investigating purchase intention drivers as a proxy for consumption. In response to the green gap, the theory of planned behaviour is expanded by including the dimension of temporal orientation, i.e., a future orientation that has an influential but unrecognised effect on many human behaviours. In contrast to the prevalent operationalisation of attitude, the term is defined as a product-specific attitude which is markedly dissimilar to the environmental attitude in its orientations. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling technique was used to analyse the research model. The findings indicate that while product-specific attitudes and perceived availability positively affect organic food consumption, subjective norms do not. Additionally, the data implies that product-specific attitudes are stronger when future orientation is high.
The Nexus between Organisational Identification and Employees’ Behavioural Outcomes: Evidence from Ecotourism Businesses
Authors: Onijigin Tayo , Özgit Hale , Ilkhanizadeh Shiva
Published: May 2023

This paper presents the mediating model, which covers the relationship between organisational identification and employees’ behavioural outcomes in ecotourism businesses. Drawing on social identity theory, this study theorises that perceived organisational support and perceived external prestige mediate the relationship between organisational identification, service quality, and creative performance in ecotourism businesses. This study employed a survey-based methodology and a 32-item questionnaire with a sample of 270 business employees. Structural equation modelling and confirmatory factor analysis were used to test the proposed hypothesis. According to the findings, perceived organisational support and perceived external prestige mediate the relationship between organisational identification and employee outcomes. Furthermore, organisational identification positively impacts perceived organisational support, perceived organisational support positively impacts perceived external prestige, and perceived external prestige positively impacts creative performance and service quality, allowing employees to better identify with ecotourism businesses to improve performance. Identifying the importance of organisational identification and employee outcomes is critical for ecotourism businesses, from employee loyalty to the importance and relevance of perceived organisational support and perceived external prestige of employees to promote and better serve the ecotourism business.
Improvement of Monitoring Production Status of Iron and Steel Factories Based on Thermal Infrared Remote Sensing
Authors: Han Fang , Zhao Fei , Li Fuxing , Shi Xiaoli , Wei Qiang , Li Weimiao , Wang Wei
Published: May 2023

Thermal infrared remote satellite (TIRS) images combined with high-resolution optical images in a time series can be used to analyze the production status of iron and steel factories (ISF) in China, which is more objective compared with statistical data. In previous studies, based on the land surface temperature (LST) data retrieved from Landsat-8 TIRS data, the heat island intensity index of an ISF (hereinafter referred to as ISHII) evaluates the LST difference between the main production area and other areas, and it can show the production status partly in one ISF. However, deviations in the LST due to seasonal changes can cause inaccuracies in the monitoring production status. In this study, we propose a modified method that introduces a seasonal-trend decomposition procedure based on regression (hereinafter referred to as STR) into the ISHII data to build a seasonal decomposition model. First, on the basis of a previously proposed time series of ISHII data from January 2013 to October 2017 for three ISF samples, the seasonal decomposition of the ISHII model was used to decompose the ISHII data into three components: trend, seasonality, and random. Then, we analyzed the relationships between these three components and the production status in the three ISFs. Additionally, to verify the precision of this method, we used high-resolution optical images to visually detect surface changes in the facilities at specific times. Finally, results showed that the trend curve can represent the entire factory development status, the seasonality curve shows the regular seasonal fluctuation, and the random component sensitively reflects the production status changes of one ISF. After decomposition, the capacity of a random component to reflect production changes has doubled or tripled compared to previous methods. In conclusion, this study provides a modified method with a seasonal decomposition model to improve prediction accuracy on the long-term production status of ISFs. Then, based on the change obtained from high-resolution optical images and Internet data on the ISF production status, we verified the accuracy of this modified method. This research will provide powerful supports for sustainable industrial development and policy decision-making in China.
Storage Time Affects the Viability, Longevity, and Germination of Eriochloa villosa (Thunb.) Kunth Seeds
Authors: Han Yujun , Gao Hong , Wang Yuechao , Zhang Liguo , Jia Jinrong , Ma Hong
Published: May 2023

The effects of storage time on Eriochloa villosa (Thunb.) Kunth seed longevity and germination were investigated. A number of physiological and biochemical indexes, such as germination indexes, seed viability, storage materials, superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and α-amylase (AMS) activity, were determined to investigate the mechanisms behind E. villosa seed longevity. The longevity of E. villosa seeds under indoor dry storage conditions was more than eight years. The vitality of E. villosa seeds decreased dramatically with increasing storage time. The malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration of the seeds increased dramatically with an increase in the storage period. The SOD, POD, CAT, and AMS activities significantly decreased over time, while the soluble sugar content first increased and then decreased. Storage duration significantly affected the soluble protein content of E. villosa seeds. The germination index of the seeds correlated with their physiological and biochemical indices and showed a significant positive correlation with the soluble sugar content, SOD, POD, and AMS activity, and a significant negative correlation with the MDA concentration. This study is of great importance for understanding the characteristics of the field seed bank of E. villosa and for implementing integrated weed control measures to contribute to sustainable agricultural development.
On Disks Enclosed by Smooth Jordan Curves
Authors: Ayala Hoffmann José , Ayala Victor
Published: May 2023

Given a smooth-plane Jordan curve with bounded absolute curvature κ>0, we determine equivalence classes of distinctive disks of radius 1/κ included in both plane regions separated by the curve. The bound on absolute curvature leads to a completely symmetric trajectory behaviour with respect to the curve turning. These lead to a decomposition of the plane into a finite number of maximal regions with respect to set inclusion leading to natural lower bounds for the length an area enclosed by the curve. We present a “half version” of the Pestov–Ionin theorem, and subsequently a generalisation of the classical Blaschke rolling disk theorem. An interesting consequence is that we describe geometric conditions relying exclusively on curvature and independent of any kind of convexity that allows us to give necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of families of rolling disks for planar domains that are not necessarily convex. We expect this approach would lead to further generalisations as, for example, characterising volumetric objects in closed surfaces as first studied by Lagunov. Although this is a classical problem in differential geometry, recent developments in industrial manufacturing when cutting along some prescribed shapes on prescribed materials have revived the necessity of a deeper understanding on disks enclosed by sufficiently smooth Jordan curves.
Chandrasekhar Mass Limit of White Dwarfs in Modified Gravity
Authors: Astashenok Artyom , Odintsov Sergey , Oikonomou Vasilis
Published: May 2023

We investigate the Chandrasekhar mass limit of white dwarfs in various models of f(R) gravity. Two equations of state for stellar matter are used: the simple relativistic polytropic equation with polytropic index n=3 and the realistic Chandrasekhar equation of state. For calculations, it is convenient to use the equivalent scalar–tensor theory in the Einstein frame and then to return to the Jordan frame picture. For white dwarfs, we can neglect terms containing relativistic effects from General Relativity and we consider the reduced system of equations. Its solution for any model of f(R)=R+βRm (m≥2, β>0) gravity leads to the conclusion that the stellar mass decreases in comparison with standard General Relativity. For realistic equations of state, we find that there is a value of the central density for which the mass of a white dwarf peaks. Therefore, in frames of modified gravity, there is a lower limit on the radius of stable white dwarfs, and this minimal radius is greater than in General Relativity. We also investigate the behavior of the Chandrasekhar mass limit in f(R) gravity.
MicotoXilico: An Interactive Database to Predict Mutagenicity, Genotoxicity, and Carcinogenicity of Mycotoxins
Authors: Tolosa Josefa , Serrano Candelas Eva , Vallés Pardo José Luis , Goya Addel , Moncho Salvador , Gozalbes Rafael , Palomino Schätzlein Martina
Published: May 2023

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by certain filamentous fungi. They are common contaminants found in a wide variety of food matrices, thus representing a threat to public health, as they can be carcinogenic, mutagenic, or teratogenic, among other toxic effects. Several hundreds of mycotoxins have been reported, but only a few of them are regulated, due to the lack of data regarding their toxicity and mechanisms of action. Thus, a more comprehensive evaluation of the toxicity of mycotoxins found in foodstuffs is required. In silico toxicology approaches, such as Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship (QSAR) models, can be used to rapidly assess chemical hazards by predicting different toxicological endpoints. In this work, for the first time, a comprehensive database containing 4360 mycotoxins classified in 170 categories was constructed. Then, specific robust QSAR models for the prediction of mutagenicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity were generated, showing good accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity. It must be highlighted that the developed QSAR models are compliant with the OECD regulatory criteria, and they can be used for regulatory purposes. Finally, all data were integrated into a web server that allows the exploration of the mycotoxin database and toxicity prediction. In conclusion, the developed tool is a valuable resource for scientists, industry, and regulatory agencies to screen the mutagenicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity of non-regulated mycotoxins.
Plant Toxic Proteins: Their Biological Activities, Mechanism of Action and Removal Strategies
Authors: Kocyigit Emine , Kocaadam-Bozkurt Betul , Bozkurt Osman , Ağagündüz Duygu , Capasso Raffaele
Published: May 2023

Plants evolve to synthesize various natural metabolites to protect themselves against threats, such as insects, predators, microorganisms, and environmental conditions (such as temperature, pH, humidity, salt, and drought). Plant-derived toxic proteins are often secondary metabolites generated by plants. These proteins, including ribosome-inactivating proteins, lectins, protease inhibitors, α-amylase inhibitors, canatoxin-like proteins and ureases, arcelins, antimicrobial peptides, and pore-forming toxins, are found in different plant parts, such as the roots, tubers, stems, fruits, buds, and foliage. Several investigations have been conducted to explore the potential applications of these plant proteins by analyzing their toxic effects and modes of action. In biomedical applications, such as crop protection, drug development, cancer therapy, and genetic engineering, toxic plant proteins have been utilized as potentially useful instruments due to their biological activities. However, these noxious metabolites can be detrimental to human health and cause problems when consumed in high amounts. This review focuses on different plant toxic proteins, their biological activities, and their mechanisms of action. Furthermore, possible usage and removal strategies for these proteins are discussed.
Virus Pop—Expanding Viral Databases by Protein Sequence Simulation
Authors: Kende Julia , Bonomi Massimiliano , Temmam Sarah , Regnault Béatrice , Pérot Philippe , Eloit Marc , Bigot Thomas
Published: May 2023

The improvement of our knowledge of the virosphere, which includes unknown viruses, is a key area in virology. Metagenomics tools, which perform taxonomic assignation from high throughput sequencing datasets, are generally evaluated with datasets derived from biological samples or in silico spiked samples containing known viral sequences present in public databases, resulting in the inability to evaluate the capacity of these tools to detect novel or distant viruses. Simulating realistic evolutionary directions is therefore key to benchmark and improve these tools. Additionally, expanding current databases with realistic simulated sequences can improve the capacity of alignment-based searching strategies for finding distant viruses, which could lead to a better characterization of the “dark matter” of metagenomics data. Here, we present Virus Pop, a novel pipeline for simulating realistic protein sequences and adding new branches to a protein phylogenetic tree. The tool generates simulated sequences with substitution rate variations that are dependent on protein domains and inferred from the input dataset, allowing for a realistic representation of protein evolution. The pipeline also infers ancestral sequences corresponding to multiple internal nodes of the input data phylogenetic tree, enabling new sequences to be inserted at various points of interest in the group studied. We demonstrated that Virus Pop produces simulated sequences that closely match the structural and functional characteristics of real protein sequences, taking as an example the spike protein of sarbecoviruses. Virus Pop also succeeded at creating sequences that resemble real sequences not included in the databases, which facilitated the identification of a novel pathogenic human circovirus not included in the input database. In conclusion, Virus Pop is helpful for challenging taxonomic assignation tools and could help improve databases to better detect distant viruses.
Genomic Epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in Urban Settings in Senegal
Authors: Ndiaye Anna Julienne Selbé , Beye Mamadou , Lo Gora , Kacel Idir , Sow Aissatou , Leye Nafissatou , Padane Abdou , Mboup Aminata , Diop-Ndiaye Halimatou , Sokhna Cheikh , Kane Coumba Touré , Colson Philippe , Fenollar Florence , Mboup Souleymane , Fournier Pierre-Edouard
Published: May 2023

We used whole genome sequencing to identify and analyze mutations in SARS-CoV-2 in urban settings during the deadliest wave of the COVID-19 epidemic—from March to April 2021—in Senegal. Nasopharyngeal samples testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 were sequenced on the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 sequencing system using the COVIDSeq protocol. A total of 291 genotypable consensus genome sequences were obtained. Phylogenetic analyses grouped the genomes into 16 distinct PANGOLIN lineages. The major lineage was B.1.1.420, despite circulation of the Alpha variant of concern (VOC). A total of 1125 different SNPs, identified relative to the Wuhan reference genome, were detected. These included 13 SNPs in non-coding regions. An average density of 37.2 SNPs per 1000 nucleotides was found, with the highest density occurring in ORF10. This analysis allowed, for the first time, the detection of a Senegalese SARS-CoV-2 strain belonging to the P.1.14 (GR/20J, Gamma V3) sublineage of the Brazilian P.1 lineage (or Gamma VOC). Overall, our results highlight substantial SARS-CoV-2 diversification in Senegal during the study period.
Genomic Characterization and gE/gI-Deleted Strain Construction of Novel PRV Variants Isolated in Central China
Authors: Ren Jianle , Tan Shanshan , Chen Xinxin , Yao Jiying , Niu Zhihong , Wang Ying , Ma Lei , Gao Xiaolong , Niu Sheng , Liang Libin , Li Junping , Zhao Yujun , Tian Wen-xia
Published: May 2023

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) variants have caused substantial economic losses in the swine industry in China since 2011. To surveil the genetic variation in PRV field strains, here, two novel variant strains of PRV were isolated from Shanxi Province in central China and were designated SX1910 and SX1911. To identify the genetic characteristics of the two isolates, their complete genomes were sequenced, and phylogenetic analysis and sequence alignment revealed that field PRV variants have undergone genetic variations; notably, the protein-coding sequences UL5, UL36, US1 and IE180 exhibited extensive variation and contained one or more hypervariable regions. Furthermore, we also found that the glycoproteins gB and gD of the two isolates had some novel amino acid (aa) mutations. Importantly, most of these mutations were located on the surface of the protein molecule, according to protein structure model analysis. We constructed a mutant virus of SX1911 with deletion of the gE and gI genes via CRISPR/Cas9. When tested in mice, SX1911-ΔgE/gI-vaccinated mice were protected within a comparable range to Bartha-K61-vaccinated mice. Additionally, a higher dose of inactivated Bartha-K61 protected the mice from lethal SX1911 challenge, while a lower neutralization titer, higher viral load and more severe microscopic lesions were displayed in Bartha-K61-vaccinated mice. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring of PRV and novel vaccine development or vaccination program design for PRV control in China.
Genetic Evolution and Variation of Human Adenovirus Serotype 31 Epidemic Strains in Beijing, China, during 2010–2022
Authors: Liu Liying , Qian Yuan , Han Zhenzhi , Jia Liping , Dong Huijin , Zhao Linqing , Zhu Runan
Published: May 2023

Human adenovirus serotype 31 (HAdV-31) is closely associated with gastroenteritis in children and can cause fatal systemic disseminated diseases in immunocompromised patients. The lack of genomic data for HAdV-31, especially in China, will greatly limit research on its prevention and control. Sequencing and bioinformatics analyses were performed for HAdV-31 strains from diarrheal children in Beijing, China, during 2010–2022. Three capsid protein genes (hexon, penton, and fiber) were obtained in 37 cases, including one in which the whole genome was sequenced. HAdV-31 strains clustered into three distinct clades (I–III) in a phylogenetic tree constructed based on concatenated genes and the whole genome; the endemic strains only gathered into clade II, and most of the reference strains clustered into clade I. Compared with penton and hexon, fiber had a faster evolutionary rate (1.32 × 10−4 substitutions/site/year), an earlier divergence time (1697), lower homology (98.32–100% at the amino acid level), and greater genetic variation (0.0032). Four out of the six predicted positive selection pressure codons were also in the knob of fiber. These results reveal the molecular evolution characteristics and variations of HAdV-31 in Beijing, and fiber may be one of the main evolution driving forces.
Remote Sensing and Ecological Variables Related to Influenza A Prevalence and Subtype Diversity in Wild Birds in the Lluta Wetland of Northern Chile
Authors: Ruiz Soledad , Galdames Pablo , Baumberger Cecilia , Gonzalez Maria Antonieta , Rojas Camila , Oyarzun Cristobal , Orozco Katherinne , Mattar Cristian , Freiden Pamela , Sharp Bridgette , Schultz-Cherry Stacey , Hamilton-West Christopher , Jimenez-Bluhm Pedro
Published: May 2023

The Lluta River is the northernmost coastal wetland in Chile, representing a unique ecosystem and an important source of water in the extremely arid Atacama Desert. During peak season, the wetland is home to more than 150 species of wild birds and is the first stopover point for many migratory species that arrive in the country along the Pacific migratory route, thereby representing a priority site for avian influenza virus (AIV) surveillance in Chile. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of influenza A virus (IAV) in the Lluta River wetland, identify subtype diversity, and evaluate ecological and environmental factors that drive the prevalence at the study site. The wetland was studied and sampled from September 2015 to October 2020. In each visit, fresh fecal samples of wild birds were collected for IAV detection by real-time RT-PCR. Furthermore, a count of wild birds present at the site was performed and environmental variables, such as temperature, rainfall, vegetation coverage (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index—NDVI), and water body size were determined. A generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) was built to assess the association between AIV prevalence and explanatory variables. Influenza positive samples were sequenced, and the host species was determined by barcoding. Of the 4349 samples screened during the study period, overall prevalence in the wetland was 2.07% (95% CI: 1.68 to 2.55) and monthly prevalence of AIV ranged widely from 0% to 8.6%. Several hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) subtypes were identified, and 10 viruses were isolated and sequenced, including low pathogenic H5, H7, and H9 strains. In addition, several reservoir species were recognized (both migratory and resident birds), including the newly identified host Chilean flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis). Regarding environmental variables, prevalence of AIV was positively associated with NDVI (OR = 3.65, p < 0.05) and with the abundance of migratory birds (OR = 3.57, p < 0.05). These results emphasize the importance of the Lluta wetland as a gateway to Chile for viruses that come from the Northern Hemisphere and contribute to the understanding of AIV ecological drivers.
The Effect of Nitrate-Contaminated Drinking Water and Vegetables on the Prevalence of Acquired Methemoglobinemia in Beit Lahia City in Palestine
Authors: Shaban Jehad , Al-Najar Husam , Kocadal Kumsal , Almghari Khaled , Saygi Sahan
Published: May 2023

Nitrates significantly impact human health and the environment. Drinking water and vegetables are considered the main sources of exposure to exogenous nitrates for humans. This study aimed to estimate and assess the health hazards from nitrate contamination present in drinking water and vegetables for infants in the north of the Gaza Strip. A total of 252 samples were collected from groundwater and drinking water, and 15 vegetable samples were analyzed with a spectrophotometer. In addition, an ELISA kit was used to determine methemoglobin in 87 infant blood samples. According to the findings of this study, the nitrate concentration in groundwater was in the range from 58.3 mg/L to 178.4 mg/L. Meanwhile, the nitrate levels in drinking water were found to be between 10 and 17 mg/L. As for vegetables, carrots (237.20 ± 53.23 mg kg−1), potatoes (246.80 ± 81.42 mg kg−1), and zucchini (275.86 ± 58.87 mg kg−1) had varying nitrate concentrations. Lastly, the study revealed that methemoglobinemia was present in 32.2% of infant samples in the study area. This study concluded that 97% of groundwater in desalination plants exceeded WHO guidelines (>50 mg/L), and the values of nitrates in drinking water showed the existence of nitrate contamination. Among vegetables, zucchini has the highest nitrate content. Exposure to drinking water and vegetables contaminated with nitrate increased the percentage of methemoglobin levels in infants.
Identification of Extreme Droughts Based on a Coupled Hydrometeorology Index from GRACE-Derived TWSA and Precipitation in the Yellow River and Yangtze River Basins
Authors: Wu Shujun , Dong Zengchuan , Cai Chenkai , Zhu Shengnan , Shao Yiqing , Meng Jinyu , Amponsah Grace Efua
Published: May 2023

Global climate change and human activities have exacerbated droughts’ environmental and socioeconomic threats. However, there is still a lack of effective techniques to consider their combined impacts on drought identification. Therefore, a new copula-based multivariate standardized drought index (CMSDI) was proposed, which integrates precipitation data and terrestrial water storage anomaly (TWSA) data observed by Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellites. The applicability of the CMSDI was assessed compared with the water storage deficits index (WSDI), the self-calibration Palmer drought severity index (sc-PDSI), the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI), and the standardized precipitation index (SPI) in the Yellow River Basin (YRB) and the Yangtze River Basin (YZRB) for 2002–2020. The assessments were conducted regarding both temporal evolution and spatial distribution. The results showed that the CMSDI was more synchronized with the WSDI and SPI than with the other two indices and presented different trends and correlations in the YRB and YZRB. The CMSDI outperformed the other drought indices due to the limitations of the sc-PDSI, SPEI, and SPI in detecting certain drought events, and the greater inaccuracy of the WSDI in identifying extreme droughts. Furthermore, the CMSDI revealed a clear upward trend in parts of the middle and lower YRB and a clear downward trend in the upper YZRB, emphasizing the need for more attention to droughts in the YRB. This study presents a new perspective on the integrated use of satellite and measured data in drought monitoring across different regions.
The Effect of Light on Nitrogen Removal by Microalgae-Bacteria Symbiosis System (MBS)
Authors: Wang Shumin , Guo Zhenghao , Ding Xiaofan , Li Linling , Jin Zhongyou , Zhang Chengcai , Liu Shouping , Zhou Yan , Fan Gongduan
Published: May 2023

The littering of nitrogen into water bodies has led to several adverse effects on the environment. “Nitrification-denitrification” is still a prevalent method for removing nitrogen from water bodies, which demands high energy consumption and complex operational conditions. In recent years, MBS has attracted much attention because of its advantages in recovering nitrogen, emitting oxygen, and capturing CO2. It has been proven that light is the top factor influencing the performance of MBS. This paper will critically review the effects of light parameters on nitrogen removal by MBS, and the nitrogen-removal mechanisms of MBS driven by artificial illumination.
Internal Erosion Stabilization of Cohesionless Soil Using Lime
Authors: Banu Shaziya , Attom Mousa
Published: May 2023

Soil embankments are valuable for the adequate reserve and supply of water to multiple industries. However, they are susceptible to internal soil erosion, which may ultimately lead to structural collapse. To counteract this issue, soil stabilization is practiced in the construction industry. This paper proposes the internal erosion stabilization of cohesionless soil using quicklime. For this research, two cohesionless soil types were investigated and treated with quicklime: poorly graded and well-graded cohesionless soils. For poorly graded soil, the lime percentage varied from 0.0% to 6.0% based on the soil’s weight, while for well-graded soil, it ranged from 0.0% to 3.0%. All the soil specimens were cured for 24 h and tested using the hole erosion test (HET) to replicate the internal erosion effortlessly. The analyzed results demonstrated the efficiency of quicklime as an internal erosion stabilizer for cohesionless soils. The optimum lime content for poorly graded cohesionless soils was 5.0%; for well-graded, the percentage was approximately 3.0%. Moreover, adding lime significantly improved the strength, critical shear stress, and erosion rate index of the soil.
Assessing the Combined Pollution and Risks of Potentially Toxic Elements and PAHs in the Urban Soils of the Oldest City in Western Siberia: A Case Study of Tyumen, Russia
Authors: Konstantinova Elizaveta , Minkina Tatiana , Antonenko Elena , Sherstnev Aleksey , Mandzhieva Saglara , Sushkova Svetlana , Rajput Vishnu D. , Konstantinov Alexandr
Published: May 2023

Ensuring the sustainability of modern cities is based on creating comfortable living conditions, including reducing negative environmental impacts. The effects of various types of anthropogenic activity are manifested in a particular decrease in the quality of soils. This study aimed to assess the co-contamination of urban topsoils in Tyumen, Russia, with potentially toxic elements (PTEs), priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and the associated ecological and health risks. A set of 241 soil samples were analyzed using X-ray fluorescence and high-performance liquid chromatography to identify PTEs and PAHs, respectively. The most hazardous substances were Ni, As, Pb, naphthalene (NAP), fluoranthene, and high-molecular-weight PAHs causing low-to-very-high individual pollution. In general, the contribution of PAHs to soil pollution was higher than that of PTEs. It was found that 96% of the samples could be classified as clean according to the total pollution index (Zc), widely used in Russia. At the same time, one-third of the samples were characterized by low-to-high contamination according to the Nemerov pollution index (NPI). Thus, the NPI was more informative for estimating total soil pollution than the Zc. The As, Pb, NAP, and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) contents exceeded the maximum permissible concentrations in soils by an order of magnitude, reaching an extremely dangerous level. However, the average ecological risk was assessed as minimal. Non-carcinogenic risks were predominantly due to PTE exposure and were moderate for children and low for adults. Throughout the city, carcinogenic risks exceeded the threshold but generally corresponded to a low level. The main source of carcinogenic risk was exposure to Co, As, and Pb. In general, the quality of Tyumen soils in terms of the content of PTEs and PAHs can be described as satisfactory. A spatial analysis of soil pollution and associated risks identified hot spots requiring further monitoring.
Application of Porous Concrete Infiltration Techniques to Street Stormwater Inlets That Simultaneously Mitigate against Non-Point Heavy Metal Pollution and Stormwater Runoff Reduction in Urban Areas: Catchment-Scale Evaluation of the Potential of Discrete and Small-Scale Techniques
Authors: Harada Shigeki
Published: May 2023

The expansion of pervious areas is an essential and common concept in mitigating non-point pollution runoff in urban areas. In this review, literature related to the expansion of pervious areas is introduced. In addition, the potential application of porous concrete as a medium for constructing the bottom and side walls of street stormwater inlets is investigated. The effectiveness of this medium in reducing (i) the stormwater runoff volume via porous concrete by exfiltrating from the bottom and the wall, and (ii) the heavy metal pollution runoff loads via infiltration through the porous concrete is assessed using data obtained by the author and published in the literature. The urban hydrological model Infoworks ICM (Innovyze) was used to estimate the exfiltration rates through the porous concrete plates set at the bottom and side walls of the street stormwater inlets. The exfiltration rates used in the pre-reported literature varied depending on the methods used. In the present study, sensitivity tests were performed by changing the exfiltration rates. The results of this study indicated that porous concrete used at only the bottom and side walls of the street stormwater inlets is suitable for reducing the runoff volume and removing any heavy metals from stormwater at a catchment scale.
Multivariate Analysis of Heavy Metals and Human Health Risk Implications Associated with Fish Consumption from the Yangtze River in Zhenjiang City, China
Authors: Kaba Peter , Shushi Sato , Gyimah Eric , Husein Mansuur , Abomohra Abdelfatah
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to analyze levels of heavy metals and human health risk implications associated with fish consumption from the Yangtze River. A total of 60 fish muscles were taken from six different fish species—Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Ctenopharyngodon idellus, Blicca bjoerkna, Mylopharyngodon piceus, Carassius carassius and Pelteobagrus fulvidraco—and digested using standard protocols. Contents of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), aluminum (Al) cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), and copper (Cu), were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectroscophotometer ((ZEEnit 700 P Zeeman)). Based on consumer health risk indicators, the health implications to children and adults upon consuming the analyzed fish species were assessed. Findings revealed that Zn recorded the highest mean concentration of 9.87 µg/g in Carassius carassius followed by Mn (7.97 µg/g) in Pelteobagrus fulvidraco, Cu (2.07 µg/g) in Mylopharyngodon piceus, Pb (1.04 µg/g) in Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Cr (0.63 µg/g) in Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Cd (0.19 µg/g) in Blicca bjoerkna and Ni (0.16 µg/g) (w/w) in Pelteobagrus fulvidraco. In addition, the health risk assessments revealed that children are at heightened non-carcinogenic risk for Pb, Cd, and Co upon consuming the examined fish species.
Perencanaan Arsitektur Sistem Informasi pada Cafe Warungâ€™e Dony Dengan Metode Zachman Framework
Authors: Afif Muammar , AMBARWATI AWALLUDIYAH , Setiawan Eman
Published: May 2023

Warungâ€™e Dony adalah sebuah bisnis usaha dalam bidang kuliner yang menjual berbagai varian kopi nusantara dan makanan. Cafe ini beroperasi pada tahun 2017 berlokasi di Sidoarjo yang didirikan oleh Dony Dewantara. Sumber daya sistem informasi yang ada belum mencukupi untuk menangani proses bisnis yang ada dan belum terintegrasinya data-data cafe, yang mengakibatkan sering terjadinya kesalahan dalam proses bisnis penjualan, misalnya belum adanya sistem untuk integrasi kegiatan promosi, pendataan barang, dan sistem kasir yang masih manual apalagi di masa Pandemi COVID-19 ini, maka segala proses transaksi harus di buat serba digital untuk mengurangi penularan COVID-19. Dalam perencanaan dan pengembangan sistem informasi yang terintegrasi untuk mendukung kebutuhan dan proses bisnis di Cafe Warungâ€™e Dony dimulai dari arsitektur data, arsitektur aplikasi dan arsitektur teknologi pada aktivitas utama yang mencakup purchasing order (PO), proses produksi dan pengeluaran barang. Saat membangun aplikasi ini dengan perencanaan arstitektur memakai metode Zachman ini dapat mempermudah antara pihak pembeli dan pihak pegawai dalam bertransaksi lebih aman di kondisi pandemi COVID-19.

Kata Kunciâ€”  Zachman Framework. EAP
Perancangan Enterprise Architecture melalui Pendekatan Infrastructure As A Service untuk Sistem Informasi Digital Mahasiswa di Universitas DIPA Makassar
Authors: Sumitra Irfan Dwiguna , Heriadi Herman
Published: May 2023

Universitas DIPA Makassar adalah sebuah enterprise yang memiliki beberapa unit bisnis yang berkaitan dengan kegiatan pembelajaran mahasiswa. Masing-masing unit bisnis tersebut memiliki sistem terpisah sehingga rawan terjadi masalah dalam pengalokasian sumber daya. Hal ini mengakibatkan data yang digunakan tidak konsisten. Untuk mengatasi masalah konsistensi data tersebut diperlukan pembaharuan sistem pada masing-masing unit bisnis pada perguruan tinggi. Adapun langkah pertama dalam pembaharuan sistem tersebut adalah perancangan sistem. Perancangan sistem pada penelitian ini menggunakan framework Enterprise Architecture Planning (EAP). Framework EAP dimaksudkan untuk membuat masing-masing unit bisnis yang dimiliki oleh perguruan tinggi menjadi terintegrasi dalam satu sistem terpadu. Sistem terpadu ini kemudian akan diterapkan menggunakan salah satu layanan berbasis komputasi awan yaitu Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Adapun layanan IaaS yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Amazon Web Service (AWS).

Keyword : framework EAP, IaaS, AWS
Du miroir au prisme
Authors: Aliouane Nabib
Published: May 2023

Si la télévision a toujours parlé d’elle-même, les modalités et les finalités de ce méta-discours télévisuel ont considérablement varié au cours de l’histoire du média.
Hollywood par la lucarne
Authors: Bell Anne-Laure
Published: May 2023

Le cinéma américain s’est davantage focalisé que d’autres sur la télévision, à tel point qu’il en a presque constitué un genre à part entière . Truman Show de Peter Weir, EdTV de Ron Howard, Quizz-show de Robert Redford, Prête à tout

de Gus Van Sant, plus récemment American Dreamz…
Architectures émotionnelles et douloureuses
Authors: Gerosa Mario
Published: May 2023

Quand les jeux vidéo laissent entrevoir une autre façon de concevoir les rapports esthétiques à l’architecture et posent de nouveaux défis à sa conservation.