bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Vegetation and Its Driving Mechanisms on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau from 2000 to 2020
Authors: Ma Changhui , Duan Si-Bo , Qin Wenhua , Wang Feng , He Lei
Published: August 2024

Revealing the response of vegetation on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) to climate change and human activities is crucial for ensuring East Asian ecological security and regulating the global climate. However, the current research rarely explores the time-lag effects of climate on vegetation growth, leading to considerable uncertainty in analyzing the driving mechanisms of vegetation changes. This study identified the main driving factors of vegetation greenness (vegetation index, EVI) changes after investigating the lag effects of climate. By analyzing the trends of interannual variation in vegetation and climate, the study explored the driving mechanisms behind vegetation changes on the QTP from 2000 to 2020. The results indicate that temperature and precipitation have significant time-lag effects on vegetation growth. When considering the lag effects, the explanatory power of climate on vegetation changes is significantly enhanced for 29% of the vegetated areas. About 31% of the vegetation on the QTP exhibited significant “greening”, primarily in the northern plateau. This greening was attributed not only to improvements in climate-induced hydrothermal conditions but also to the effective implementation of ecological projects, which account for roughly half of the significant greening. Only 2% of the vegetation on the QTP showed significant “browning”, sporadically distributed in the southern plateau and the Sanjiangyuan region. In these areas, besides climate-induced drought intensification, approximately 78% of the significant browning was due to unreasonable grassland utilization and intense human activities. The area where precipitation dominates vegetation improvement was larger than the area dominated by temperature, whereas the area where precipitation dominates vegetation degradation is smaller than that where temperature dominates degradation. The implementation of a series of ecological projects has resulted in a much larger area where human activities positively promoted vegetation compared to the area where they negatively inhibited it.
Polarimetric Adaptive Coherent Detection in Lognorm-Texture-Distributed Sea Clutter
Authors: Xue Jian , Yan Jiali , Xu Shuwen , Liu Jun
Published: August 2024

This paper addresses polarimetric adaptive coherent detection of radar targets embedded in sea clutter. Initially, radar clutter data across multiple polarimetric channels is modeled using a compound Gaussian framework featuring an unspecified speckle covariance matrix and lognormal texture distribution. Subsequently, three adaptive polarimetric coherent detectors are derived, employing parameter estimation and two-step versions of the generalized likelihood ratio test (GLRT): the complex parameter Rao and Wald tests. These detectors utilize both clutter texture distribution information and radar data’s polarimetric aspects to enhance detection performance. Simulation experiments demonstrate the superiority of three proposed detectors over the competitors, and that they are sensitive to polarimetric channel parameters such as secondary data quantity, target or clutter speckle correlation, and signal-to-clutter ratio disparity. Additionally, the proposed detectors exhibit a near-constant false alarm rate relative to average clutter power and speckle covariance matrix.
Influence of Abnormal Eddies on Seasonal Variations in Sonic Layer Depth in the South China Sea
Authors: Liu Xintong , Qiu Chunhua , Wang Tianlin , Mao Huabin , Xiao Peng
Published: August 2024

Sonic layer depth (SLD) is crucial in ocean acoustics research and profoundly influences sound propagation and Sonar detection. Carrying 90% of oceanic kinetic energy, mesoscale eddies significantly impact the propagation of acoustic energy in the ocean. Recent studies classified mesoscale eddies into normal eddies (warm anticyclonic and cold cyclonic eddies) and abnormal eddies (cold anticyclonic and warm cyclonic eddies). However, the influence of mesoscale eddies, especially abnormal eddies, on SLD remains unclear. Based on satellite altimeter and reanalysis data, we explored the influence of mesoscale eddies on seasonal variations in SLD in the South China Sea. We found that the vertical structures of temperature anomalies within the eddies had a significant impact on the sound speed field. A positive correlation between sonic layer depth anomaly (SLDA) and eddy intensity (absolute value of relative vorticity) was investigated. The SLDA showed significant seasonal variations: during summer (winter), the proportion of negative (positive) SLDA increased. Normal eddies (abnormal eddies) had a more pronounced effect during summer and autumn (spring and winter). Based on mixed-layer heat budget analysis, it was found that the seasonal variation in SLD was primarily induced by air–sea heat fluxes. However, for abnormal eddies, the horizontal advection and vertical convective terms modulated the variations in the SLDA. This study provides additional theoretical support for mesoscale eddy–acoustic coupling models and advances our understanding of the impact of mesoscale eddies on sound propagation.
Can Cashew Value Chain Industry Improve Food Security: An Empirical Study from The Gambia
Authors: Bojang Baseedy , Emang Diana
Published: August 2024

Food security is the most critical issue to address in The Gambia, and cashew production and its respective value chain provide opportunities to improve the quality of livelihood for many families. This study conducts value chain and SWOT analyses to provide information that could improve development opportunities and strengthen linkages to food security within the cashew industry in The Gambia’s Kombo East district, West Coast region. The results show that the cashew value chain in the study site is characterized by a large number of producers and relatively few intermediaries working through five marketing channels. The results demonstrate that farmers received 66% of the final market value, but there is a lack of farmer organizations, which severely affected farmers’ free and fair access to markets to sell their products. So, there is an immediate need to establish farmers’ cooperatives to reduce intermediaries in the value chain and obtain fair product prices. Moreover, the result of SWOT analysis revealed that the strategic position of the cashew industry is an advantageous ‘holds and maintains’ position, indicating a market penetration, product development, or modifying existing products, and a vertical integration strategy could increase revenue, alleviate poverty, and reduce food insecurity. Adopting the recommended market-based approaches will result in higher producer prices and incomes, thereby reducing poverty and food insecurity. The study contributes to the literature by focusing on the cashew chain value in The Gambia, added value opportunities through transformation, better markets, improved products, and other alternatives to promote global value creation, and the dynamics of the food system, which can promote food security and sustainable rural development.
Post-Disaster Performance and Restoration Sequences of Interdependent Critical Infrastructure Systems Considering Various Socioeconomic Impacts
Authors: Mao Quan , Liu Yuechen
Published: August 2024

The failures of interdependent critical infrastructure systems (CISs) caused by disasters could result in significant impacts on the economy and society of cities. Although existing studies have proposed several socioeconomic impact indicators of CIS failures, using these indicators as optimization objectives of restoration sequences, most of them only selected one indicator and failed to reveal their differences. This study aims to analyze the differences between various socioeconomic impact indicators in evaluating post-disaster CIS performance and to identify their effects on the optimized restoration sequences. To achieve this objective, this study simulates the failure propagation and recovery process of CISs, based on network modeling, and constructs six socioeconomic impact indicators for evaluating CIS performance and optimizing the restoration sequence. Then, this study analyzes the effects of different socioeconomic impact indicators by comparing the differences between post-disaster CIS performance, as well as the corresponding restoration sequence and recovery efficiency, among five groups. The results indicate that ignoring social impacts would significantly underestimate the consequences of CIS failures, and the restoration sequence aimed at minimizing social impact differs from other methods, with the recovery efficiency in regards to the social impact notably lower than that of the economic impact. This implies that evaluating the multidimensional social impacts is essential for accurately understanding the worst-case consequences of CIS failures with a bottom-line perspective.
Evaluation of the Influence of Phosphogypsum-Based Composite Filler on Performance of the SMA-13 Asphalt Mixture and Its Harmless Treatment
Authors: Dong Chenyang , Xiang Hui , Hu Xiaodi , Wu Hao , Gao Bo , Wan Jiuming , Rao Zhengmengyuan , Fan Zhiwei , Ma Yuan
Published: August 2024

Phosphogypsum is a waste from the phosphorus chemical industry which has certain environmental hazards. Using it as a substitute for building materials was thought to alleviate the problems of phosphogypsum pollution and natural mineral consumption. This study tried to develop an environmentally friendly phosphogypsum-based composite filler (PCF) that can be used as a filler in the SMA-13 asphalt mixture. The SMA-13 asphalt mixture was first designed, following which PCF containing phosphogypsum and steel slag powder was prepared. PCF’s composition and harmless treatment were determined based on the characterization of the overflowed concentration of fluoride ions, and the pH value of the PCF’s leaching solution was evaluated by ion chromatography and a pH meter. The effect of replacing the PCF content in the SMA-13 asphalt mixture was investigated according to high-temperature performance, moisture resistance, and low-temperature performance. Long-term overflowed harmful ion concentrations of PCF-based SMA-13 asphalt mixtures were also included. The results indicate that the steel slag powder content can reduce the overflowed fluoride ion concentration in phosphogypsum. The optimal composition of PCF was 65% phosphogypsum and 35% steel slag powder. The addition of PCF can enhance the SMA-13 asphalt mixture’s Marshall stability and dynamic stability when its content is over 20%. SMA-13 asphalt mixtures with PCF can meet the requirements of the specification, although their moisture resistance is reduced by PCF. PCF was proven to increase fracture toughness and energy in a semi-circular bending test at low temperatures, while 40% PCF showed the highest cracking resistance. Furthermore, PCF was able to reduce the long-term overflowed concentrations of fluoride ions and phosphate ions that could meet the environmental requirements. The results of this study provide academic support for the effective consumption of phosphogypsum in road engineering on a large scale.
The Carbon Emissions from Public Buildings in China: A Systematic Analysis of Evolution and Spillover Effects
Authors: Song Xiaogang , Zhai Shufan , Zhou Na
Published: August 2024

Public buildings, being the primary source of carbon emissions in China’s construction sector, present a pressing need for emission control. This imperative task not only ensures the sustainable progression of China’s building industry but also holds pivotal significance in the realm of global energy conservation and emission curtailment. This study analyzed the spatiotemporal evolution of carbon emissions from public buildings in China and assessed the spatial influence of related factors using a dataset covering 30 provincial units from 2006 to 2021. The analysis employed Theil’s index, Moran’s I index, standard deviation ellipse, and the spatial Durbin model. The study revealed an upward trajectory in carbon emissions from public buildings in China, although the growth rate was generally decreasing. Disparities in emission distribution among provincial units stem largely from intra-regional distinctions, notably prominent in the Low-Intensity High-Economy regions. Provincial carbon emissions from public buildings exhibited significant spatial correlation, manifesting as clusters of high–high and low–low patterns, indicative of mutual influence among adjacent areas. Additionally, the shift in carbon emission focal points from the northeast to the southwest underscored a more pronounced surge in the southwestern regions. Variables such as energy intensity, energy structure, per capita public building area, disposable income per capita, openness level, and environmental governance directly impact carbon emissions from public buildings. Among these, energy intensity, energy structure, disposable income per capita, and environmental governance also had spatial spillover effects. These findings provide a scientific reference and a foundation for policy-making, aiding local administrations in crafting strategies to mitigate carbon emissions from public buildings and foster sustainable progress.
Feature Extraction and Classification of Motor Imagery EEG Signals in Motor Imagery for Sustainable Brain–Computer Interfaces
Authors: Lu Yuyi , Wang Wenbo , Lian Baosheng , He Chencheng
Published: August 2024

Motor imagery brain–computer interface (MI-BCI) systems hold the potential to restore motor function and offer the opportunity for sustainable autonomous living for individuals with a range of motor and sensory impairments. The feature extraction and classification of motor imagery EEG signals related to motor imagery brain–computer interface systems has become a research hotspot. To address the challenges of difficulty in feature extraction and low recognition rates of motor imagery EEG signals caused by individual variations in EEG signals, a classification algorithm for EEG signals based on multi-feature fusion and the SVM-AdaBoost algorithm was proposed to improve the recognition accuracy of motor imagery EEG signals. Initially, the electroencephalography (EEG) signals are preprocessed using Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filters, and a multi-wavelet framework is constructed based on the Morlet wavelet and the Haar wavelet. Subsequently, the preprocessed signals undergo multi-wavelet decomposition to extract energy features, Common Spatial Patterns (CSP) features, Autoregressive (AR) features, and Power Spectral Density (PSD) features. The extracted features are then fused, and the fused feature vector is normalized. Following that, classification is implemented within the SVM-AdaBoost algorithm. To enhance the adaptability of SVM-AdaBoost, the Grid Search method is employed to optimize the penalty parameter and kernel function parameter of the SVM. Concurrently, the Whale Optimization Algorithm is utilized to optimize the learning rate and number of weak learners within the AdaBoost ensemble, thereby refining the overall performance. In addition, the classification performance of the algorithm is validated using a brain-computer interface (BCI) dataset. In this study, it was found that the classification accuracy reached 95.37%. Via the analysis of motor imagery electroencephalography (EEG) signals, the activation patterns in different regions of the brain can be detected and identified, enabling the inference of user intentions and facilitating communication and control between the human brain and external devices.
Sustainable Food Waste Management in Food Service Establishments in Relation to Unserved Dishes
Authors: Tomaszewska Marzena , Bilska Beata , Tul-Krzyszczuk Agnieszka , Kołożyn-Krajewska Danuta
Published: August 2024

The problem of food waste in food service is recognized in the scientific community. A reduction in this phenomenon is necessary for the sustainable development of the food service industry. However, the issue of the influence of various characteristics of food service establishments (FSEs) on food waste has still not been studied sufficiently. The aim of this research was to assess the impact of the type of FSE, type of customer service, time in business of the FSE, and average daily number of consumers served on measures taken in FSE in relation to ready meals in the context of food waste. Survey research was conducted in 131 FSEs. It was found that the different groups of dishes that were prepared in excess and not served to consumers are most often stored in refrigerated conditions until the following day. The management of unserved dishes was correlated with business time and the type of FSE. Dishes like cold and hot snacks, in particular, were more often made available to employees in establishments with shorter time in business. In restaurants and small food service outlets/cafés, discarding was more often indicated as the management method for these types of dishes. The majority of food service establishments were not able to sell half portions. In conclusion, there is great potential to reduce food waste in food service establishments, but education of both staff and customers is essential.
A Social Assessment Framework to Derive a Social Score for Green Material Selection: A Case Study from the Sri Lankan Cement Industry
Authors: Fernando Ashani , Siriwardana Chandana , Gunasekara Chamila , Law David William , Zhang Guomin , Gamage J. C. P. H.
Published: August 2024

Assessing the sustainability of material-based products now encompasses social sustainability, a vital aspect often overlooked. Even though the existing frameworks provide a starting point, they do not often differentiate between the assessment criteria when making comparisons within one specific material category, which has made sustainability assessments more focused on environmental and economic aspects. This study addresses this critical gap by pioneering a social assessment framework curated to help practitioners to choose the most sustainable cement type out of the standard cement types used in the industry. Utilizing the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) and linear-scoring method, criteria weights were systematically assigned based on scoring by industry and academic experts. The findings highlight the importance of integrating social sustainability with environmental and economic factors in cement selection. Unlike traditional material selection, which primarily considers cost and performance, green material selection emphasizes the holistic impact of materials, including social factors. Variations in weightage decisions among experts highlight the influence of practical experience, research interests, and context. Functionality emerges as a crucial criterion. The ranking of cement types based on social scores places CEM II/B-M at the top, followed by CEM IV/A, CEM II/A-S, CEM II/A-V, CEM I, and CEM II/A-LL. The evolving nature of sustainability necessitates ongoing research to refine and expand existing frameworks for a more sustainable construction industry.
The Nutrient Content of Litter and Manure from Different Poultry Systems—Updating and Establishing the Nutrient Profile
Authors: Ball M. Elizabeth E. , Wright Lavinia P. , Wilson Keith , Richmond Harold , Cummings Richard , Smyth Sam , Davison Mark , Forbes Keiron , Thompson Jonathan , Bryson Paul
Published: August 2024

Representative samples of litter and/or manure from 12 of the most common poultry systems were collected and analysed to provide an accurate nutrient profile from each system. For many systems (turkeys, broilers under indirect heating systems, and pullets), there were no previous values with which to compare composition, but for other systems (broiler breeders and layers), nitrogen and phosphate content were lower as a result of changes in diet and advancements in genetics and management. Nitrogen and phosphate output per 1000 birds was calculated for each system using analysed values for nitrogen and phosphate and measured litter/manure output. Due to a lack of data, it was not possible to compare the nutrient profile of all systems with published values, but where this was possible, some important differences were apparent. For example, the nitrogen and phosphate contents of BB (0–18 weeks) litter were 31% lower and 73% higher than current standard values. Similar differences were also observed for BB (18–60 weeks) (26% lower in nitrogen and 51% higher in phosphate). Turkey litter was found to contain 14% less nitrogen and 37% less phosphate than standard values. Litter from pullet systems contained higher levels of DM (72%), nitrogen, and phosphate than standard values. Litter from free range laying systems also contained higher DM (46%), nitrogen, and phosphate than standard values. This information will be useful in updating environmental legislation and ensuring that poultry producers are able to calculate accurate nutrient management plans for their enterprises. This study also established relations between litter/manure dry matter (DM) and nutrient profile, meaning that this simple measured parameter can be used to predict nutrient profile. The strongest relations were observed between DM and N (R2 = 0.65), DM and phosphate (R2 = 0.53), and DM and MgO (R2 = 0.69). The weakest relation was observed between DM and WSP content (R2 = 0.21), although still significant (p = 0.046). It was concluded that it is necessary to consider the relation within individual systems when using DM as a predictor of nutrient profile rather than using a combined system approach. The water-soluble phosphorus (WSP) content of litter/manure was determined and a baseline was established for each production system. It was also shown that DM is positively related (p < 0.05) to WSP content. This will be important for future legislative compliance based on the WSP content of litter/manure.
Sustainable Ecological Non-Sintered Ceramsite (SENC) with Alkali Activators: Performance Regulation and Microstructure
Authors: Chen Shoukai , Zhou Jingfei , Bie Yajing , Zhao Mengdie , Duan Peidong , Hu Qingfeng
Published: August 2024

The development of novel materials made from waste is one of the main measures to achieve sustainable materials development. In this study, ash of mushroom and corn straw (MCA) and furnace slag (FS) were used as raw materials to prepare alkali-activated biomass ash-slag material (AABS) and sustainable ecological non-sintered ceramsite (SENC). In this paper, the effects of quicklime powder (QL), NaOH, and sodium silicate solution (SS) on AABS were analyzed using single factor and orthogonal tests, and the preferred ratio of the composite alkali activator configuration was established. SENC was prepared based on the composite alkali activator, and the microstructure and phase composition of SENC were explored using XRD and SEM–EDS. The results showed that 3 wt% QL enhanced the early age compressive strength of AABS. The composite alkali activator was best configured when the additions of QL, NaOH, and SS were 3%, 2%, and 15%, respectively. At this configuration, the 28 d compressive strength of AABS was 47.4 MPa, and most of the internal pores were less than 0.4 μm; the 28 d numerical tube pressure of the SENC reached 12.2 MPa with a softening coefficient of 0.96. According to the results of XRD and SEM–EDS, SENC contained various hydration products such as C-A-S-H, calcium hemicarboaluminate, hydrotalcite, portlandite, and vaterite. The largest proportion of hydration products was C-A-S-H, which contributed to the pore refinement and structural densification. SENC has the potential to be used as coarse aggregate in sustainable lightweight concrete.
Maintaining Sustainable Growth of Micro and Small Enterprises: Antecedents of Management Orientation and Digital Business
Authors: Wahyudiono  , Aini Nurul , Murni Siti Asiah , Rosyid Amrun
Published: August 2024

This study examines the Effect of management orientation on digital business and business growth and the Effect of digital business on micro and small business growth. This research belongs to the associative/explanatory category accompanied by hypothesis testing. The unit of analysis in this study was micro and small businesses in East Java, with a population of 358. The sampling technique in this study used purposive sampling with specific criteria and obtained a sample size of 191, which is referred to as respondents. Path analysis results show that management orientation has a positive and significant effect on digital business and business growth, and digital business has a positive and significant effect on the growth of micro and small businesses in East Java. The findings of this study indicate that management orientation based on the principle of change responsively and wisely in utilizing digital platforms in business will undoubtedly encourage the strengthening of digital business operations to be more effective, thereby encouraging the growth of micro and small businesses. Therefore, management orientation and digital business must be managed optimally to maintain sustainable micro and small business growth.
Laundry Machine Auto-Balancing Mechanism: Non-Linear Simulation of Imbalance Settlement
Authors: Podesva Jiri , Marsalek Pavel , Cienciala Jakub , Drahorad Lukas , Halama Radim
Published: August 2024

The auto-balancing mechanism is used in the spin-dry regime of the laundry machine. The high rotating speed and unbalanced mass inside the drum create centrifugal force, which is the cause of vibration. The auto-balancing mechanism consists of a set of balls in the circular guiding track. During the spin-dry process, the balls settle in the opposite position to an unbalanced mass. The centrifugal force of the balls compensates the one of the unbalanced masses. The paper deals with the non-linear numerical simulation of the imbalance settlement and the following parametric study. The solution to the problem is demonstrated on an industrial laundry machine with a maximum capacity of 7 kg of dry laundry and a maximum rotating speed of 930 rpm. The proposed numerical model allows us to investigate the behavior of the auto-balancing mechanism and predict the vibration amplitudes of the system.
Bayesian and E-Bayesian Estimation for a Modified Topp Leone–Chen Distribution Based on a Progressive Type-II Censoring Scheme
Authors: Kalantan Zakiah I. , Swielum Eman M. , AL-Sayed Neama T. , EL-Helbawy Abeer A. , AL-Dayian Gannat R. , Abd Elaal Mervat
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This paper is concerned with applying the Bayesian and E-Bayesian approaches to estimating the unknown parameters of the modified Topp–Leone–Chen distribution under a progressive Type-II censored sample plan. The paper explores the complexities of different estimating methods and investigates the behavior of the estimates through some computations. The Bayes and E-Bayes estimators are obtained under two distinct loss functions, the balanced squared error loss function, as a symmetric loss function, and the balanced linear exponential loss function, as an asymmetric loss function. The estimators are derived using gamma prior and uniform hyperprior distributions. A numerical illustration is given to examine the theoretical results through using the Metropolis–Hastings algorithm of the Markov chain Monte Carlo method of simulation by the R programming language. Finally, real-life data sets are applied to prove the flexibility and applicability of the model.
Non-Linear Elastic Beam Deformations with Four-Parameter Timoshenko Beam Element Considering Through-the-Thickness Stretch Parameter and Reduced Integration
Authors: Firouzi Nasser , Alzaidi Ahmed S. M.
Published: August 2024

In this work, non-linear elastic deformations of beams are investigated. The kinematics of the beam is derived based on an element with four-parameter containing a through-the-thickness stretch parameter to avoid Poisson locking. Moreover, the Kirchhoff-Saint Venant model is used to derive kinetic quantities. Next, a non-linear FE formula in Total Lagrangian form is obtained, and three-node beam element with two-node reduced integration is employed to avoid shear locking. Finally, to evaluate the performance of the derived formulations, some examples are provided. The results prove that the current formulation is in very good agreement with those available in the literature. More importantly, the formulation is capable of predicting the experimental results with high accuracy.
Development of a Quick and Highly Sensitive Amplified Luminescent Proximity Homogeneous Assay for Detection of Saxitoxin in Shellfish
Authors: Zhao Chenhao , Zhang Zhi , Li Jiayu , Lu Yaofan , Ma Fuyuan , Wang Zheng , Geng Jiaxin , Huang Biao , Qin Yuan
Published: August 2024

Saxitoxin (STX), an exceptionally potent marine toxin for which no antidote is currently available, is produced by methanogens and cyanobacteria. This poses a significant threat to both shellfish aquaculture and human health. Consequently, the development of a rapid, highly sensitive STX detection method is of great significance. The objective of this research is to create a novel approach for identifying STX. Therefore, amplified luminescent proximity homogeneous assay (AlphaLISA) was established using a direct competition method based on the principles of fluorescence resonance energy transfer and antigen–antibody specific binding. This method is sensitive, rapid, performed without washing, easy to operate, and can detect 8–128 ng/mL of STX in only 10 min. The limit of detection achieved by this method is as low as 4.29 ng/mL with coefficients of variation for the intra-batch and inter-batch analyses ranging from 2.61% to 3.63% and from 7.67% to 8.30%, respectively. In conclusion, our study successfully establishes a simple yet sensitive, rapid, and accurate AlphaLISA method for the detection of STX which holds great potential in advancing research on marine biotoxins.
Solar Energetic Particles Propagation under 3D Corotating Interaction Regions with Different Characteristic Parameters
Authors: Zhu Yuji , Shen Fang
Published: August 2024

Solar energetic particles (SEPs) are bursts of high-energy particles that originate from the Sun and can last for hours or even days. The aim of this study is to understand how the characteristics of energetic particles ware affected by the characteristic parameters of corotating interaction regions (CIRs). In particular, the particle intensity distribution with time and space in CIRs with different characteristics were studied. The propagation and acceleration of particles were described by the focused transport equation (FTE). We used a three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model to simulate the background solar wind with CIRs. By changing the inner boundary conditions, we constructed CIRs with different solar wind speeds, angles between the polar axis and rotation axis, and the azimuthal widths of the fast streams. Particles were impulsively injected at the inner boundary of the MHD model. We then studied the particle propagation and compression acceleration in different background solar wind. The results showed that the CIR widths are related to the solar wind speed, tilt angles, and the azimuthal widths of the fast stream. The acceleration of particles in the reverse and forward compression regions are mainly influenced by the solar wind speed difference and the slow solar wind speed, respectively. Particles with lower energy (sub-MeV) are more sensitive to the solar wind speed difference and the tilt angle. The particle intensity variation with time and the radial distance is mainly influenced by the solar wind speed. The longitudinal distribution of particle intensity is affected by the solar wind speed, tilt angles, and the azimuthal widths of the fast stream.
Genomics for Arbovirus Surveillance: Considerations for Routine Use in Public Health Laboratories
Authors: Patiño Leandro , Benítez Andrea Denisse , Carrazco-Montalvo Andrés , Regato-Arrata Mary
Published: August 2024

The emergence and re-emergence of arthropod-borne viruses is a public health threat. For routine surveillance in public health laboratories, cost-effective and reproducible methods are essential. In this review, we address the technical considerations of high-throughput sequencing methods (HTS) for arbovirus surveillance in national health laboratories, focusing on pre-sequencing, sequencing, and post-sequencing approaches, underlining the importance of robust wet and dry laboratory workflows for reproducible analysis. We aim to provide insights for researchers and clinicians interested in arbovirus, diagnosis, and surveillance by discussing current advances in sequencing methods and bioinformatics pipelines applied to arboviruses.
Bilateral Perivascular Chorioretinal Atrophy Resembling Pigmented Paravenous Chorioretinal Atrophy Post COVID-19 Infection: A Case Report and Comprehensive Immune Profiling
Authors: Sato Tomohito , Takenaka Yuki , Takeuchi Masaru
Published: August 2024

The pandemic of COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus is ongoing and a serious menace to global public health. An ocular manifestation is an initial sign of the infection. To date, a comprehensive immune profile of patients with mild COVID-19 has not been well developed. Here, we report a 53-year-old female who noticed a sudden decrease in visual acuity (VA) in both eyes on the fourth day after COVID-19 infection. At presentation (acute phase), the best-corrected VA (BCVA) on the decimal chart was 0.5 in both the right and left eyes. Color fundus photography showed perivascular chorioretinal atrophy with peripheral pigment loss, similar to the fundus appearance of pigmented paravenous chorioretinal atrophy (PPCRA) in the inferior arcade vessels of both eyes. Optical coherence tomography indicated thinning and blurred boundaries of the outer retina in the lesion sites, implying anatomical destruction. She was followed up without any systemic medications. After approximately 15 weeks (remission phase), the BCVA recovered to 0.6 in the right eye and 0.8 in the left. Systemic immune profiles were analyzed using mass cytometry. In the acute phase, monocytes and basophils were dominantly elevated, which suggested the activation of innate immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 and allergic inflammation. In the remission phase, Th2-like cells, plasmablasts, and neutrophils increased predominantly, implying the maturation of adaptive immunity and the preparedness of innate immunity to combat the infection. Our findings indicate that perivascular chorioretinal atrophy resembling PPCRA is a clinical feature of the ocular phenotype of COVID-19, caused by systemic immune responses.
Surface and Subsurface Water Impacts of Forestry and Grassland Land Use in Paired Watersheds: Electrical Resistivity Tomography and Water Balance Analysis
Authors: de Souza Éricklis Edson Boito , de Bastos Franciele , da Cunha Kemerich Pedro Daniel , Zago Marieli Machado , Ebling Éderson Diniz , de Araujo Elias Frank , Antonino Antonio Celso Dantas , Reichert José Miguel
Published: August 2024

Global forest plantations are expanding, causing land-use changes and impacting the water cycle. This study assesses whether eucalyptus plantations reduce groundwater levels compared to grasslands in paired subtropical watersheds. The hydrological dynamics of surface and subsurface water were compared in three small watersheds in southern Brazil, mainly occupied by Eucalyptus saligna (Es-W, 79.9 ha), Eucalyptus benthamii (Eb-W, 82.1 ha), and degraded anthropized natural grassland (G-W, 109.4 ha). Rainfall, flow, and piezometric levels were monitored. Runoff, evapotranspiration, and water balance in the soil profile were estimated, and the subsurface environment was characterized using electrical resistivity tomography. During higher accumulated rainfall, water surplus increased for all watersheds. In the wet period (accumulated rainfall of 1098.0 mm), evapotranspiration was higher for eucalyptus (624.3 mm for Eb-W and 512.5 mm for Es-W) than for the grassland watershed (299.5 mm), resulting in the highest runoff in G-W (649.6 mm). During the dry period (accumulated rainfall of 478.5 mm), water deficit and withdrawal were mainly observed in forested watersheds, decreasing groundwater. Combining water balance and electrical resistivity tomography estimations results in a better understanding of the hydrological dynamics in paired watersheds with different land uses. This information is useful for developing best-practice management strategies for sustainable water resource use and forest production.
Study on the Effects of Irrigation Quotas and Amendments on Salinized Soil and Maize Growth
Authors: Chen Liang , Yue Shaoli , Sun Lifeng , Gao Ming , Wang Rui
Published: August 2024

Salt damage affects crop yields and wastes limited water resources. Implementing water-saving and salt-controlling strategies along with amendments can enhance crop productivity and support the development of salinized soils towards. In this study, we used “Jia Liang 0987” maize as the test material, and a two-factor split block design was executed to investigate the effects of synergistic management of irrigation volume (W1: 360 mm, W2: 450 mm, and W3: 540 mm) and amendments (T1: microbial agent 816.33 kg·hm−2, T2: humic acid 6122.45 kg·hm−2, T3: microsilica powder 612.25 kg·hm−2) on water, salt and soil indices, and growth characteristics. The combination of 450 mm of irrigation with humic acid (W2T2) or with microsilica powder (W2T3) significantly lowered the groundwater level by 0.24 m and 0.19 m, respectively. The soil mineralization was significantly reduced by 2.60 g/L and 1.75 g/L with W2T2 and 540 mm of irrigation combined with humic acid (W3T2), respectively. The soil moisture content increased with depth and over time, showing the greatest improvement with W2T2. This combination also showed optimal results for pH and total salt, organic matter, available phosphorus, quick-acting potassium, Cl−, and SO42− contents. W2T2 and W3T2 improved soil field capacity and HCO3− contents, and significantly increased total nitrogen and phosphorus content, improving the soil nutrient grade. W2T2 showed the greatest maize plant height (323.67 cm) and stem thickness (21.54 mm for diameter), enhancing above-ground dry biomass (72,985.49 kg·hm−2) and grain yield (14,646.57 kg·hm−2). Implementing water-saving and salt-controlling strategies with amendments effectively improved soil fertility and crop yield in salinized soils, and the amendments factor played a major role. In saline–alkali soils in the northwest of China, 450 mm of irrigation combined with humic acid is especially helpful for enhancing soil fertility and maize productivity.
Water Quality in Estero Salado of Guayaquil Using Three-Way Multivariate Methods of the STATIS Family
Authors: Grijalva-Endara Ana , Valenzuela-Cobos Juan Diego , Guevara-Viejó Fabricio , Macías Mora Patricia Antonieta , Quichimbo Moran Jorge Stalin , Ruiz-Muñoz Geovanny , Galindo-Villardón Purificación , Vicente-Galindo Purificación
Published: August 2024

Water property parameters were analyzed over 9 months across six stations within the Estero Salado. The parameters under evaluation included nitrite (NO2−), nitrate (NO3−), phosphate (PO43−), ammonium (NH4+), temperature, pH, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), conductivity, salinity, color, turbidity, suspended solids, hardness, and alkalinity. Additionally, the TRIX index (which measures chlorophyll, oxygen saturation, nitrogen, and phosphorus) was considered. The multivariate technique employed was partial triadic analysis (PTA), a specialized variant developed from STATIS, enabling the examination of the common structure’s stability across months and the positioning of stations and variables within a compromise space. This analysis elucidated a variability of 69% and 96%, respectively. Stations could be characterized based on their associations with specific variables, while the analysis also facilitated the identification of months impacting the common structure of pollution indicators.
Flood Extent Delineation and Exposure Assessment in Senegal Using the Google Earth Engine: The 2022 Event
Authors: Sy Bocar , Bah Fatoumata , Dao Hy
Published: August 2024

This study addresses the pressing need for flood extent and exposure information in data-scarce and vulnerable regions, with a specific focus on West Africa, particularly Senegal. Leveraging the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform and integrating data from the Sentinel-1 SAR, Global Surface Water, HydroSHEDS, the Global Human Settlement Layer, and MODIS land cover type, our primary objective is to delineate the extent of flooding and compare this with flooding for a one-in-a-hundred-year flood event, offering a comprehensive assessment of exposure during the period from July to October 2022 across Senegal’s 14 regions. The findings underscore a total inundation area of 2951 square kilometers, impacting 782,681 people, 238 square kilometers of urbanized area, and 21 square kilometers of farmland. Notably, August witnessed the largest flood extent, reaching 780 square kilometers, accounting for 0.40% of the country’s land area. Other regions, including Saint-Louis, Ziguinchor, Fatick, and Matam, experienced varying extents of flooding, with the data for August showing a 1.34% overlap with flooding for a one-in-a-hundred-year flood event derived from hydrological and hydraulic modeling. This low percentage reveals the distinct purpose and nature of the two approaches (remote sensing and modeling), as well as their complementarity. In terms of flood exposure, October emerges as the most critical month, affecting 281,406 people (1.56% of the population). The Dakar, Diourbel, Thiès, and Saint-Louis regions bore substantial impacts, affecting 437,025; 171,537; 115,552; and 77,501 people, respectively. These findings emphasize the imperative for comprehensive disaster preparation and mitigation efforts. This study provides a crucial national-scale perspective to guide Senegal’s authorities in formulating effective flood management, intervention, and adaptation strategies.
INTERNATIONAL LEGAL REGULATION OF READMISSION OF ILLEGAL MIGRANTS: EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE
Authors: Hrushko M. ,   National University Odesa Law Academy
Published: August 2024

The article is focused on the analysis of international legal regulation of readmission of illegal migrants with a focus on the European experience. The article analyses the main international treaties regulating readmission, as well as some peculiarities of their implementation in the European Union. Particular attention is paid to the role of the European Union (hereinafter - EU) authorities in shaping the readmission policy, as well as to the issues of human rights observance in the process of returning illegal migrants. The procedure and consequences of concluding agreements between the EU and third countries aimed at facilitating effective readmission and preventing illegal migration are analysed. The article concludes that there is a need to improve international legal mechanisms of readmission in order to ensure a balance between the security interests of states and the rights of migrants. The article comprehensively examines the evolution of international legal frameworks governing the readmission of illegal migrants, with particular emphasis on the European Union's regulatory mechanisms. It critically evaluates the effectiveness of existing readmission agreements, identifying both strengths and potential areas for reform. Furthermore, the article delves into the judicial oversight provided by European courts in safeguarding the human rights of migrants during readmission. It also suggests that enhancing international cooperation and standardising procedures could mitigate the challenges posed by irregular migration, ensuring a more humane and legally sound approach to readmission. Key words: readmission, illegal migrants, migration, armed conflict, human rights, children's rights, European Union, migration crisis, readmission of children
Importância da atenção primária na avaliação de Depressão em adolescentes e revisão de literatura
Authors: Veintemilla Esther Nataly Tafur , Rodriguez Juan Eduardo Rios , Cantalice Maraisa Frota
Published: August 2024

Introdução: O diagnóstico de depressão é um desafio, ainda mais com o aumento da frequência da doença, mas ainda uma procura escassa de acompanhamento profissional. Na população adolescente esta dificuldade é ainda mais crítica, devido a rotina do mesmo, mudanças do estilo de vida, e outros fatores. A atenção primária se torna uma ferramenta do sistema de saúde para melhor aproximação destes pacientes assim como melhor seguimento dos mesmos. Objetivo: revisar a literatura a cerca do acompanhamento de sintomas depressivos na população adolescente em cenário de atenção primária. Discussão: há diversas opções quanto a acompanhamento desta população, e quando neste cenário, a aproximação do profissional é decisiva. A possibilidade de rastreio de sintomas depressivos deve ser considerada em pacientes de 12 a 18 anos. O ensino sobre o quadro para a família é um tema prioritário a ser discutido em reuniões, pois melhora o desfecho e cria uma rede de confiança. Conclusões: ainda com poucos dados brasileiros, a depressão em adolescentes apresenta dificuldades em diagnóstico e acompanhamento. Cabe ao profissional da atenção primária o papel de rastreio e investigação destes casos, e se necessário, encaminhar a auxílio especializado precocemente.
Aspectos sobre diagnóstico e tratamento da sonolência diurna excessiva: uma revisão sistemática
Authors: Veras Ana Carolina Oliveira , Leite Marcela Goreske , Freitas Mariane Vargas , Macedo Miguel Eduardo Guimarães
Published: August 2024

Objetivo: Explanar e reunir atualizações acerca da Sonolência Diurna Excessiva (SDE). Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática realizada através da base de dados MedLine/PubMed e Google Acadêmico incluindo os seguintes descritores e suas variações no MeSH “Daytime Sleepiness”, Diagnosis, "adverse effects" e Treatments. Foram incluídos estudos em inglês e publicados nos últimos 6 anos e excluídos resultados referentes a livros e documentos ou que não se enquadraram nos critérios desejados após leitura realizada pelos autores. Os desfechos clínicos de interesse consistem em sonolência diurna excessiva, diagnóstico, tratamento e possíveis efeitos colaterais do mesmo. Resultados: Após análise, foram incluídos 19 artigos no escopo deste trabalho, de maneira que 5 destes foram agrupados em forma de quadro baseando-se em intervenções relacionadas ao manejo terapêutico. Considerações finais: Apesar de seu difícil diagnóstico, o impacto negativo da SDE na qualidade de vida torna necessário e justifica os crescentes estudos acerca da temática, de modo que a pluralidade de possibilidades terapêuticas, sejam essas farmacológicas ou não, ainda demandam mais evidências acerca de sua segurança e eficácia.