bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Development Level of Integration of Culture and Tourism in China’s Provinces under the Perspective of Spatial Interaction and Study of Influence Paths
Authors: Zhu Hai , Xie Chaowu , Zhang Jiangchi
Published: February 2024

In the new stage of the deep integration of culture and tourism, fully exploring its mechanism of action, spatial connection, and path of influence will be of great significance to the sustainable development of the integration of culture and tourism. In this paper, we analysed the mechanism of integration of culture and tourism with the help of systems theory, introduced the concept of spatial interaction to construct a new measurement model of integration of culture and tourism, and conducted empirical analyses with Chinese provinces as the target. We found that in the last decade, the tourism industry has been dominant, and most of the industrial elements have been clustered towards it. The centre of the spatial interaction network of culture and tourism is located in the area of the “North China Plain—Middle and Lower Yangtze River Plain” and moves towards the southwest over time. The northwestern and northeastern zones have become “desert zones” in the spatial interaction network of culture and tourism. The level of integration of culture and tourism peaked in 2018, with East China having a chronically higher level of integration. In addition, the deep integration of culture and tourism can be promoted through the combination of new development philosophies.
Research on Urban Street Network Structure Based on Spatial Syntax and POI Data
Authors: Yang Luxiao , Jin Qizhi , Fu Feng
Published: February 2024

The rapid development of cities has led to increasingly problems in the road network structure of urban streets. Combining emerging big data technology with traditional street network analysis methods has become a new way to tackle it. Guilin is a famous international tourist city, and the “Two Rivers and Four Lakes” scenic area is an iconic symbol of Guilin’s scenery. Its streets connect various tourist spots. This study focused on the street’s layout of the “Two Rivers and Four Lakes” scenic area, and used a combination of spatial syntax and POI big data to analyse their spatial structure. The research results indicated that: (1) there was a positive correlation between the global integration value of the street and the POI value; (2) by combining functional density indicators with global integration analysis, streets that significantly deviate from the overall trend can be identified, and classified according to their characteristics to reveal the reasons for their contradictions; (3) we needed to propose three plans for optimizing the proportion of high street, enhancing street functions, and “improving street space” for different types of streets to ultimately realize the purpose of sustainable development of streets and cities.
Research on the Effectiveness of Virtual Endorsers: A Study Based on the Match-Up Hypothesis and Source Credibility Model
Authors: Kong Haiyan , Fang Hualong
Published: February 2024

In the digital era, businesses are actively integrating advanced technology and innovative marketing strategies to achieve sustained growth. Notably, virtual endorsers play a key role in driving enterprises towards digital transformation in the field of digital marketing. Understanding consumer attitudes towards the use of virtual endorsers in digital marketing is especially important for enterprises employing digital tools to realize a sustainable business model. To this end, this research adopts the match-up hypothesis and source credibility model as its theoretical framework, delving into the impact of virtual endorser–product fit and credibility features (attractiveness, expertise, and trustworthiness) on product attitudes, as well as the interactive effects of these features with product types. We collected feedback data from 376 participants through an online questionnaire and validated our hypotheses using the PLS-SEM model. The results demonstrate that virtual endorser–product fit positively affects credibility, with higher credibility further enhancing consumers’ attitudes toward products. Additionally, the source credibility model partially mediates the relationship between the match-up hypothesis and product attitudes, with attractiveness exerting the most significant impact. Finally, we observed variations in consumer attitudes toward products endorsed by virtual endorsers based on product types. The findings of this study provide a solid theoretical basis for a deeper understanding of consumer attitudes towards the application of virtual endorsers in marketing and offer practical suggestions for businesses to leverage digital tools for sustainable development.
Protected Areas and Their Contribution to Sustainable Development
Authors: Díaz-Rodríguez Pablo , Rodríguez-Darias Alberto Jonay , Arnaiz-Schmitz Cecilia
Published: February 2024

Towards the end of the 19th century, a small fraction of humanity finally embraced an “official” consciousness regarding the conservation of nature [...]
UAS-Based Thermal Photogrammetry for Microscale Surface Urban Heat Island Intensity Assessment in Support of Sustainable Urban Development (A Case Study of Lyulin Housing Complex, Sofia City, Bulgaria)
Authors: Dimitrov Stelian , Iliev Martin , Borisova Bilyana , Semerdzhieva Lidiya , Petrov Stefan
Published: February 2024

The urban heat island (UHI) and its intensity is one of the phenomena that are of determining importance for the comfort of living in cities and their sustainable development in the face of deepening climate change. The study is objectively difficult due to the large dynamics like land cover and the considerable diversity of land use patterns in urban areas. Most of the frequently used research practice approaches provide information with problematic spatial and temporal resolution, making them difficult to apply for sustainable urban planning purposes. This paper proposes to calculate SUHI intensity as the difference between the temperature of a given point within a city and the average minimum temperature of the land cover class with the lowest surface temperatures within the same urban area. The study presents the results of the application of thermal photogrammetry based on the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), combined with geographic information systems (GIS), in the study of surface urban heat island intensity (SUHI), at the local level for the largest housing complex in Bulgaria–Lyulin district of the capital of Sofia city. The studies were carried out during a heat wave in July 2023. A difference of 16.5 °C was found between locations with SUHI occurrence and of the peripheral non-build and natural land cover types within the urbanized area. The information benefits of locally addressed data and their direct applicability are discussed to support decision-making processes in the planning and management of urban areas, including their climate adaptation and sustainable development.
The Relationship between the Parameters That Characterize a Built Living Space and the Health Status of Its Inhabitants
Authors: Bungau Constantin C. , Bendea Codruta , Bungau Tudor , Radu Andrei-Flavius , Prada Marcela Florina , Hanga-Farcas Ioana Francesca , Vesa Cosmin Mihai
Published: February 2024

Housing is an essential component of the living environment, and it has a substantial effect on physical and mental well-being. Multiple housing factors, including inadequate ventilation, overcrowding, construction materials, and exposure to allergens and pollutants, have been linked to a variety of diseases, such as respiratory ailments and dermatologic, rheumatologic, and cardiovascular disorders. The present narrative review shows the current state of knowledge in the field by centralizing and evaluating scientific publications with a focus on this linkage, detailing the implications for health status and the benefits of using natural materials in construction, implementing green building concepts, and applying technological transfer, where various decision factors can contribute to improving quality of life. Therefore, it is achievable to enhance the indoor air quality (IAQ) by promoting ventilation and air filtration, decreasing mold and moisture, and employing low-emitting materials in building construction and development. Overall, promoting healthy housing environments through an enhanced IAQ and using sustainable building practices can have a substantial positive effect on public health. To reduce the risk of housing-related diseases, future research should concentrate on identifying the most effective interventions to improve the living environment–health condition axis.
How the River Chief System Achieved River Pollution Control: Analysis Based on AGIL Paradigm
Authors: Li Jinyang , Xiong Chao , Huang Yunrong
Published: February 2024

The implementation of China’s water pollution control policy is facing challenges. The current situation requires that China’s water pollution control must be transformed from a hierarchical management system to a collaborative governance model, which has led to the emergence of the river chief system (RCS). Firstly, this research analyzes the water quality in the lower Yangtze River Basin in the past five years, and the results show that the overall water quality of the study area has improved. Secondly, this research is conducted from the perspective of the four functions of adaptation (A), goal attainment (G), integration (I), and latency pattern maintenance (L), using the AGIL paradigm as a model to analyze the operation of RCS and carry out a cross-study on environmental protection and public policy, which provides a precedent for future public policy research and discussion. Finally, based on the AGIL paradigm, this research puts forward the development direction of RCS, which provides experience and theoretical support for other countries’ watershed pollution research.
Sustainable Smart Cities through Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning-Based Cooperative Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Louati Ali , Louati Hassen , Kariri Elham , Neifar Wafa , Hassan Mohamed K. , Khairi Mutaz H. H. , Farahat Mohammed A. , El-Hoseny Heba M.
Published: February 2024

As urban centers evolve into smart cities, sustainable mobility emerges as a cornerstone for ensuring environmental integrity and enhancing quality of life. Autonomous vehicles (AVs) play a pivotal role in this transformation, with the potential to significantly improve efficiency and safety, and reduce environmental impacts. This study introduces a novel Multi-Agent Actor–Critic (MA2C) algorithm tailored for multi-AV lane-changing in mixed-traffic scenarios, a critical component of intelligent transportation systems in smart cities. By incorporating a local reward system that values efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort, and a parameter-sharing scheme that encourages inter-agent collaboration, our MA2C algorithm presents a comprehensive approach to urban traffic management. The MA2C algorithm leverages reinforcement learning to optimize lane-changing decisions, ensuring optimal traffic flow and enhancing both environmental sustainability and urban living standards. The actor–critic architecture is refined to minimize variances in urban traffic conditions, enhancing predictability and safety. The study extends to simulating realistic human-driven vehicle (HDV) behavior using the Intelligent Driver Model (IDM) and the model of Minimizing Overall Braking Induced by Lane changes (MOBIL), contributing to more accurate and effective traffic management strategies. Empirical results indicate that the MA2C algorithm outperforms existing state-of-the-art models in managing lane changes, passenger comfort, and inter-vehicle cooperation, essential for the dynamic environment of smart cities. The success of the MA2C algorithm in facilitating seamless interaction between AVs and HDVs holds promise for more fluid urban traffic conditions, reduced congestion, and lower emissions. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on autonomous driving within the framework of sustainable smart cities, focusing on the integration of AVs into the urban fabric. It underscores the potential of machine learning and artificial intelligence in developing transportation systems that are not only efficient and safe but also sustainable, supporting the broader goals of creating resilient, adaptive, and environmentally friendly urban spaces.
Does Environmental Protection Law Bring about Greenwashing? Evidence from Heavy-Polluting Firms in China
Authors: Zhang Ying , Chen Shouming , Li Yujia , Ramos Disney Leite
Published: February 2024

To enhance environmental governance for sustainable development, China has made efforts to address environmental issues through formal institutions. The enactment of the new Environmental Protection Law (EPL) in 2015 exerted new institutional pressures on heavy-polluting firms. Our study focuses on examining the phenomenon of greenwashing among these firms after the implementation of EPL. Using difference-in-difference model, we identify that EPL results in an increase in greenwashing behavior by heavy-polluting firms. Furthermore, our research reveals that while EPL implementation enhances disclosure performance in heavy-polluting firms, there is no tangible improvement in substantive environmental performance. These results are supported by various robustness tests that affirm their reliability. Additionally, we uncover that government subsidies exacerbate greenwashing in heavy-polluting firms. In contrast, the availability of slack resources diminishes the impact of EPL on greenwashing behavior. This study not only enhances the understanding of the mechanism of the impact between EPL and firm greenwashing, but also offers suggestions to help the government for better environmental governance as well as firms to engage in environmental behaviors and sustainability.
The Impact of Climate Action on the Financial Performance of Food, Grocery, and Supermarket Retailers in the UK
Authors: Olarewaju Tolu , Dani Samir , Obeng-Fosu Collins , Olarewaju Tayo , Jabbar Abdul
Published: February 2024

We examined the impact of climate action on the financial performance of eleven food, grocery, and supermarket retailers listed on the London Stock Exchange from 2013 to 2022. Our findings reveal a positive association between the climate mitigation efforts of these businesses and financial performance, particularly in terms of returns on assets (ROA). Through Ordinary Least Squares estimation, we identified that climate action practices such as renewable energy usage, waste reduction, adoption of energy-efficient technologies, eco-friendly packaging, and optimized transportation are significantly associated with the ROA of UK-based food, grocery, and supermarket retailers. This study is significant as these retailers often have extensive operations and supply chains that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. It demonstrates that engaging in climate mitigation measures can still lead to a positive ROA.
Nested Contrastive Boundary Learning: Point Transformer Self-Attention Regularization for 3D Intracranial Aneurysm Segmentation
Authors: Estrella-Ibarra Luis Felipe , León-Cuevas Alejandro de , Tovar-Arriaga Saul
Published: February 2024

In 3D segmentation, point-based models excel but face difficulties in precise class delineation at class intersections, an inherent challenge in segmentation models. This is particularly critical in medical applications, influencing patient care and surgical planning, where accurate 3D boundary identification is essential for assisting surgery and enhancing medical training through advanced simulations. This study introduces the Nested Contrastive Boundary Learning Point Transformer (NCBL-PT), specially designed for 3D point cloud segmentation. NCBL-PT employs contrastive learning to improve boundary point representation by enhancing feature similarity within the same class. NCBL-PT incorporates a border-aware distinction within the same class points, allowing the model to distinctly learn from both points in proximity to the class intersection and from those beyond. This reduces semantic confusion among the points of different classes in the ambiguous class intersection zone, where similarity in features due to proximity could lead to incorrect associations. The model operates within subsampled point clouds at each encoder block stage of the point transformer architecture. It applies self-attention with k = 16 nearest neighbors to local neighborhoods, aligning with NCBL calculations for consistent self-attention regularization in local contexts. NCBL-PT improves 3D segmentation at class intersections, as evidenced by a 3.31% increase in Intersection over Union (IOU) for aneurysm segmentation compared to the base point transformer model.
A Kinetic Study of a Photo-Oxidation Reaction between α-Terpinene and Singlet Oxygen in a Novel Oscillatory Baffled Photo Reactor
Authors: Chen Jianhan , Prinsloo Rohen , Ni Xiongwei
Published: February 2024

By planting LEDs on the surfaces of orifice baffles, a novel batch oscillatory baffled photoreactor (OBPR) together with polymer-supported Rose Bengal (Ps-RB) beads are here used to investigate the reaction kinetics of a photo-oxidation reaction between α-terpinene and singlet oxygen (1O2). In the mode of NMR data analysis that is widely used for this reaction, α-terpinene and ascaridole are treated as a reaction pair, assuming kinetically singlet oxygen is in excess or constant. We have, for the first time, here examined the validity of the method, discovered that increasing α-terpinene initially leads to an increase in ascaridole, indicating that the supply of singlet oxygen is in excess. Applying a kinetic analysis, a pseudo-first-order reaction kinetics is confirmed, supporting this assumption. We have subsequently initiated a methodology of estimating the 1O2 concentrations based on the proportionality of ascaridole concentrations with respect to its maximum under these conditions. With the help of the estimated singlet oxygen data, the efficiency of 1O2 utilization and the photo efficiency of converting molecular oxygen to 1O2 are further proposed and evaluated. We have also identified conditions under which a further increase in α-terpinene has caused decreases in ascaridole, implying kinetically that 1O2 has now become a limiting reagent, and the method of treating α-terpinene and ascaridole as a reaction pair in the data analysis would no longer be valid under those conditions.
Feasibility of Low-Dose and Low-Contrast Media Volume Approach in Computed Tomography Cardiovascular Imaging Reconstructed with Model-Based Algorithm
Authors: Ippolito Davide , Porta Marco , Maino Cesare , Riva Luca , Ragusi Maria , Giandola Teresa , Franco Paolo Niccolò , Cangiotti Cecilia , Gandola Davide , De Vito Andrea , Talei Franzesi Cammillo , Corso Rocco
Published: February 2024

Aim: To evaluate the dose reduction and image quality of low-dose, low-contrast media volume in computed tomography (CT) examinations reconstructed with the model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR) algorithm in comparison with the hybrid iterative (HIR) one. Methods: We prospectively enrolled a total of 401 patients referred for cardiovascular CT, evaluated with a 256-MDCT scan with a low kVp (80 kVp) reconstructed with an MBIR (study group) or a standard HIR protocol (100 kVp—control group) after injection of a fixed dose of contrast medium volume. Vessel contrast enhancement and image noise were measured by placing the region of interest (ROI) in the left ventricle, ascending aorta; left, right and circumflex coronary arteries; main, right and left pulmonary arteries; aortic arch; and abdominal aorta. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were computed. Subjective image quality obtained by consensus was assessed by using a 4-point Likert scale. Radiation dose exposure was recorded. Results: HU values of the proximal tract of all coronary arteries; main, right and left pulmonary arteries; and of the aorta were significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (p < 0.05), while the noise was significantly lower (p < 0.05). SNR and CNR values in all anatomic districts were significantly higher in the study group (p < 0.05). MBIR subjective image quality was significantly higher than HIR in CCTA and CTPA protocols (p < 0.05). Radiation dose was significantly lower in the study group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The MBIR algorithm combined with low-kVp can help reduce radiation dose exposure, reduce noise, and increase objective and subjective image quality.
Sustainable Development of ZnO Nanostructure Doping with Water Hyacinth-Derived Activated Carbon for Visible-Light Photocatalysis
Authors: Krobthong Sucheewan , Rungsawang Tipawan , Khaodara Naphatson , Kaewtrakulchai Napat , Manatura Kanit , Sukiam Khewika , Wathinputthiporn Donchida , Wongrerkdee Sawitree , Boonruang Chatdanai , Wongrerkdee Sutthipoj
Published: February 2024

Water hyacinth (Wh) is an aquatic weed considered a nuisance in agricultural and fishing activities. Therefore, this study proposed repurposing this plant into activated carbon (AC). First, the ZnO-AC was precipitated and applied as a photocatalyst for degrading methylene blue. The preliminary photocatalytic test under UV irradiation identified the optimum ZnO-AC photocatalyst to degrade methylene blue (MB). The ZnO-AC photocatalyst recorded the highest degradation rate constant of 11.49 × 10−3 min−1, which was almost two-fold higher than that of ZnO (5.55 × 10−3 min−1). Furthermore, photocatalytic degradation of MB and carbaryl under sunlight irradiation by ZnO-AC demonstrated degradation rate constants of 74.46 × 10−3 min−1 and 8.43 × 10−3 min−1, respectively. To investigate the properties of ZnO-AC, several techniques were performed. ZnO-AC and ZnO exhibited similar results in morphology, crystalline structure, and Raman characteristics. However, ZnO-AC presented smaller pore diameters than those of ZnO, which enlarged pore surface area, and the presence of carbon-related groups implied the presence of AC on ZnO-AC surfaces. This can be attributed to the presence of AC on the ZnO surface, increasing the capture of surrounding toxic molecules and elevating the reaction density. This mechanism is attributed to promoting the degradation of toxic molecules. Therefore, using Wh as a carbon source for the transformation of AC can alternatively solve the problems of aquatic weed management and carbon storage strategies, and the application of AC in ZnO-AC photocatalysts can enhance photocatalysis.
Preclinical Antiviral and Safety Profiling of the HBV RNA Destabilizer AB-161
Authors: Lam Angela M. , Dugyala Ravi R. , Sheraz Muhammed , Liu Fei , Thi Emily P. , Graves Ingrid E. , Cuconati Andrea , Steuer Holly Micolochick , Ardzinski Andrzej , Overholt Nathan , Mason Jeremy D. , Gotchev Dimitar , Cole Andrew G. , Harasym Troy O. , Sofia Michael J.
Published: February 2024

HBV RNA destabilizers are a class of small-molecule compounds that target the noncanonical poly(A) RNA polymerases PAPD5 and PAPD7, resulting in HBV RNA degradation and the suppression of viral proteins including the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). AB-161 is a next-generation HBV RNA destabilizer with potent antiviral activity, inhibiting HBsAg expressed from cccDNA and integrated HBV DNA in HBV cell-based models. AB-161 exhibits broad HBV genotype coverage, maintains activity against variants resistant to nucleoside analogs, and shows additive effects on HBV replication when combined with other classes of HBV inhibitors. In AAV-HBV-transduced mice, the dose-dependent reduction of HBsAg correlated with concentrations of AB-161 in the liver reaching above its effective concentration mediating 90% inhibition (EC90), compared to concentrations in plasma which were substantially below its EC90, indicating that high liver exposure drives antiviral activities. In preclinical 13-week safety studies, minor non-adverse delays in sensory nerve conductance velocity were noted in the high-dose groups in rats and dogs. However, all nerve conduction metrics remained within physiologically normal ranges, with no neurobehavioral or histopathological findings. Despite the improved neurotoxicity profile, microscopic findings associated with male reproductive toxicity were detected in dogs, which subsequently led to the discontinuation of AB-161’s clinical development.
Initial Efficacy of the COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Booster and Subsequent Breakthrough Omicron Variant Infection in Patients with B-Cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: A Single-Center Cohort Study
Authors: Saito Makoto , Mori Akio , Ishio Takashi , Kobayashi Mirei , Tsukamoto Shihori , Kajikawa Sayaka , Yokoyama Emi , Kanaya Minoru , Izumiyama Koh , Muraki Haruna , Morioka Masanobu , Kondo Takeshi
Published: February 2024

It has been suggested that the effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) booster vaccination in patients with B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (B-NHL) is inferior to that in healthy individuals. However, differences according to histological subtype or treatment status are unclear. In addition, there has been less research on patients who subsequently develop breakthrough infections. We investigated the effects of the first COVID-19 booster vaccination for patients with B-NHL and the clinical features of breakthrough infections in the Omicron variant era. In this study, B-NHL was classified into two histological subtypes: aggressive lymphoma and indolent lymphoma. Next, patients were subdivided according to treatment with anticancer drugs at the start of the first vaccination. We also examined the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients who had breakthrough infections after a booster vaccination. The booster effect of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine in patients with B-NHL varied considerably depending on treatment status at the initial vaccination. In the patient group at more than 1 year after the last anticancer drug treatment, regardless of the histological subtype, the booster effect was comparable to that in the healthy control group. In contrast, the booster effect was significantly poorer in the other patient groups. However, of the 213 patients who received the booster vaccine, 22 patients (10.3%) were infected with COVID-19, and 18 patients (81.8%) had mild disease; these cases included the patients who remained seronegative. Thus, we believe that booster vaccinations may help in reducing the severity of Omicron variant COVID-19 infection in patients with B-NHL.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on COVID-19 Vaccination among General Adult Population in Malawi: A Countrywide Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Chisale Master R. O. , Kambalame Dzinkambani , Mwale Saul Eric , Mbakaya Balwani Chingatichifwe , Mankhamba Regina , Kumwenda Pizga , Chilima Ben , Mitambo Collins , Chiwaula Mavuto , Nyambalo Billy , Sambani Clara , Gondwe Jellita , Muwalo Charity , Dembo Amon , Chinyamunyamu Lines , Thomas Mavuto , Kagoli Matthews , Banda Evelyn Chitsa
Published: February 2024

Vaccination is one of the essential measures in reducing transmission, morbidity, and mortality rates of a disease. However, the COVID-19 vaccination is facing hesitancy across the globe, Malawi included. A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Malawi to document knowledge, attitudes, and practices on COVID-19 vaccination. The study targeted the general adult population and employed a multi-stage sampling technique. The Census Enumeration Areas within the 16 selected districts served as a primary sampling unit. Among the total 3068 participants, 1947 (63.6%) were female. About 1039 (34.1%) participants had primary education, while only 169 (5.5%) had college education. A total of 2936 (95.7%) participants knew about the COVID-19 vaccine, and 2063 (68.4%) felt that the COVID-19 vaccine was effective. A total of 1180 (38.7%) got vaccinated. Knowledge of the COVID-19 vaccination was significantly associated with participants’ education levels, location, occupation, marital status, household family income, and whether they were suffering from chronic illness or not. Overall, the level of knowledge and attitudes about the COVID-19 vaccination was good. This study has also established that different population groups have statistically different levels of knowledge and attitudes regarding COVID-19 vaccination. This study has also indicated a significant relationship between the rate of vaccination and several factors. Therefore, this calls for stakeholders to continue awareness and group-targeted tailored campaigns so as to increase COVID-19 vaccination.
Antimicrobial Residue Accumulation Contributes to Higher Levels of Rhodococcus equi Carrying Resistance Genes in the Environment of Horse-Breeding Farms
Authors: Higgins Courtney , Cohen Noah D. , Slovis Nathan , Boersma Melissa , Gaonkar Pankaj P. , Golden Daniel R. , Huber Laura
Published: February 2024

Antimicrobial residues excreted in the environment following antimicrobial treatment enhance resistant microbial communities in the environment and have long-term effects on the selection and maintenance of antimicrobial resistance genes (AMRGs). In this study, we focused on understanding the impact of antimicrobial use on antimicrobial residue pollution and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the environment of horse-breeding farms. Rhodococcus equi is an ideal microbe to study these associations because it lives naturally in the soil, exchanges AMRGs with other bacteria in the environment, and can cause disease in animals and humans. The environment is the main source of R. equi infections in foals; therefore, higher levels of multidrug-resistant (MDR) R. equi in the environment contribute to clinical infections with MDR R. equi. We found that macrolide residues in the environment of horse-breeding farms and the use of thoracic ultrasonographic screening (TUS) for early detection of subclinically affected foals with R. equi infections were strongly associated with the presence of R. equi carrying AMRGs in the soil. Our findings indicate that the use of TUS contributed to historically higher antimicrobial use in foals, leading to the accumulation of antimicrobial residues in the environment and enhancing MDR R. equi.
Development of Virus-like Particle Plant-Based Vaccines against Avian H5 and H9 Influenza A Viruses
Authors: Elbohy Ola A. , Iqbal Munir , Daly Janet M. , Dunham Stephen P.
Published: February 2024

Avian influenza A virus (AIV) is a significant cause of mortality in poultry, causing substantial economic loss, particularly in developing countries, and has zoonotic potential. For example, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses of the H5 subtype have been circulating in Egypt for around two decades. In the last decade, H5N1 viruses of clade 2.2.1 have been succeeded by the antigenically distinct H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses. Furthermore, H9N2 viruses co-circulate with the H5N8 viruses in Egyptian poultry. It is widely recognised that effective vaccination against IAV requires a close antigenic match between the vaccine and viruses circulating in the field. Therefore, approaches to develop cost-effective vaccines that can be rapidly adapted to local virus strains are required for developing countries such as Egypt. In this project, the haemagglutinin (HA) proteins of Egyptian H5 and H9 viruses were expressed by transient transfection of plants (Nicotiana benthamiana). The formation of virus-like particles (VLPs) was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. Mice were immunised with four doses of either H5 or H9 VLPs with adjuvant. Antibody and cellular immune responses were measured against the corresponding recombinant protein using ELISA and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISpot), respectively. Chickens were immunised with one dose of H5 VLPs, eliciting HA-specific antibodies measured by ELISA and a pseudotyped virus neutralisation test using a heterologous H5 HA. In conclusion, plant-based VLP vaccines have potential for producing an effective vaccine candidate within a short time at a relatively low cost.
Effect of Hypotension and Dobutamine on Gastrointestinal Microcirculations of Healthy, Anesthetized Horses
Authors: Kieffer Philip J. , Williams Jarred M. , Shepard Molly K. , Giguère Steeve , Epstein Kira L.
Published: February 2024

Horses undergoing abdominal exploratory surgery are at risk of hypotension and hypoperfusion. Normal mean arterial pressure is used as a surrogate for adequate tissue perfusion. However, measures of systemic circulation may not be reflective of microcirculation. This study measured the mean arterial pressure, cardiac index, lactate, and four microcirculatory indices in six healthy, anesthetized adult horses undergoing elective laparotomies. The microcirculatory parameters were measured at three different sites along the gastrointestinal tract (oral mucosa, colonic serosa, and rectal mucosa) with dark-field microscopy. All macro- and microcirculatory parameters were obtained when the horses were normotensive, hypotensive, and when normotension returned following treatment with dobutamine. Hypotension was induced with increases in inhaled isoflurane. The horses successfully induced into hypotension did not demonstrate consistent, expected changes in systemic perfusion or microvascular perfusion parameters at any of the three measured gastrointestinal sites. Normotension was successfully restored with the use of dobutamine, while the systemic perfusion and microvascular perfusion parameters remained relatively unchanged. These findings suggest that the use of mean arterial pressure to make clinical decisions regarding perfusion may or may not be accurate.
A Three-Year Study on the Nutritional Composition and Occurrence of Mycotoxins of Corn Varieties with Different Transgenic Events Focusing on Poultry Nutrition
Authors: Vidal Juliano Kobs , Simões Cristina Tonial , Mallmann Adriano Olnei , Tyska Denize , Pereira Helder Victor , Mallmann Carlos Augusto
Published: February 2024

Corn is one of the most produced cereals in the world and plays a major role in poultry nutrition. As there is limited scientific information regarding the impact of transgenic technology on the quality and nutrient composition of the grains, this study investigated the effect of three major transgenic corn varieties—VT PRO3®, PowerCore® ULTRA, and Agrisure® Viptera 3—on the field traits, nutrient composition, and mycotoxin contamination of corn grains cultivated in southern Brazil during three consecutive harvests. VT PRO3®, while demonstrating superior crop yield, showed susceptibility to mycotoxins, particularly fumonisins. In contrast, PowerCore® ULTRA, with the lowest yield, consistently exhibited lower levels of fumonisins. VT PRO3® had higher AMEn than the other varieties, while PowerCore® ULTRA had the highest total and digestible amino acid contents over the three years. The study’s comprehensive analysis reveals the distinct impact of transgenic corn technologies on both productivity and nutritional levels. Balancing the crops yield, mycotoxin resistance, and nutritional content of corn is crucial to meet the demands of the poultry feed industry. Such insights are essential for decision-making, ensuring sustainability and efficiency in agricultural production as well as meeting the demands of the poultry industry.
Statistical Risk and Performance Analyses on Naturalistic Driving Trajectory Datasets for Traffic Modeling
Authors: Zong Ruixue , Wang Ying , Ding Juan , Deng Weiwen
Published: February 2024

The development of autonomous driving technology has made simulation testing one of the most important tools for evaluating system performance. However, there is a lack of systematic methods for analyzing and assessing naturalistic driving trajectory datasets. Specifically, there is a lack of comprehensive analyses on data diversity and balance in machine learning-oriented research. This study presents a comprehensive assessment of existing highway scenario datasets in the context of traffic modeling in autonomous driving simulation tests. In order to clarify the level of traffic risk, we design a systematic risk index and propose an index describing the degree of data scatter based on the principle of Euclidean distance quantization. By comparing several datasets, including NGSIM, highD, INTERACTION, CitySim, and our self-collected Highway dataset, we find that the proposed metrics can effectively quantify the risk level of the dataset while helping to gain insight into the diversity and balance differences of the dataset.
Un décret honorifique des Kodapeis (Carie du sud)
Authors: Bresson Alain , Brun Patrice , Descat Raymond , Konuk Koray
Published: February 2024

Publication of an honorary decree of the Kodapeis , a city mentioned in the Athenian tribute lists, the location of which was hitherto unknown. The stone (unfortunately mutilated) comes from the territory of the village of Bozalan, on the Ceramic gulf, west of Keramos-Ören. In an appendix, some remarks on the value of the tribute lists for establishing a relative geography of sites as yet unlocated.
An Honorific Decree from Classical Siphnos
Authors: Παπαζαρκάδας Νικόλαος
Published: February 2024

Je présente ci-dessous l 'editio princeps d’un décret honorifique partiellement conservé de l’île de Siphnos. Une copie du texte de L.H. Jeffery déposée au CSAD à Oxford montre que l’inscription a été découverte pendant les fouilles britanniques à Kastro dans les années 1930. Elle n’a cependant jamais été publiée. Des indices prosopographiques suggèrent que la personne honorée était un Athénien et que, probablement, le titre de proxène lui fut attribué par la cité de Siphnos. La forme des lettres ainsi que les formules utilisées indiquent une datation à la fin du cinquième ou au début du quatrième siècle avant notre ère. Cependant, les institutions démocratiques mentionnées dans le préambule excluent la décennie 404-394 av. J.C., puisque pendant cette période la Sparte oligarchique maintenait avec fermeté sous son contrôle l’ensemble de l’espace égéen.
Kairos et «le» kairos chez les historiens grecs de l’époque classique
Authors: Gallet Bernard
Published: February 2024

Καιρ ος, examiné sans idée préconçue, est chez les historiens grecs de l’époque classique un mot très ordinaire. Il est porteur de sens variés, y compris celui de «moment décisif à saisir », qui n’est en aucune façon privilégié, ni en nombre ni en importance. On constate que 76,9 % des emplois de καιρ oçcontenus dans le vaste corpus que nous avons choisi appartiennent à des tournures toutes faites et répétitives (prépositionnelles ou καιρ ος εσιΗ qui sont peu propices à l’expression de nuances subtiles. En définitive, les emplois correspondant de façon certaine au fameux « moment critique », « opportun » ou « décisif » sont relativement rares et dans la très grande majorité des occurrences le mot καιρ oçne désigne pas fondamentalement un instant d’exception. Il est donc peu probable que les Athéniens de l’époque classique aient en ces matières pensé καιρ oçcomme une entité singulière, et qu’ils aient jamais eu conscience de mettre en œuvre un effort de raison pour appréhender cette réalité fugitive.
La chouette-hoplite d’Athéna et la Crète des archers. Les "dessous" d'une allergie réciproque
Authors: Monbrun Philippe
Published: February 2024

Antigonos of Karystos, Pliny and Aelian mention a tradition according to which there is, between the owl and Crete, a genuine incompatibility. Therefore, I suggest looking for the « hidden side » of that mutual allergy in the way the Greeks imagined the owl’s thos : an owl at the top of Athena’s and Athens’s bestiary, a « hopliticized » owl exposed to flying light-armed troops ’s mobbing and to cunning hunters, an owl standing frontally, spreading his aegis-like wings, with little care for its rear. Athena’s bird standing wholly on the side of the spear and the shield, cannot live in Crete, the isle of bows and arrows. It was a means of spatial representation of the irreconcilable character the owl of the hoplite goddess showed together with the «autre guerrier » and the archer in particular.
Les magistrats militaires des cités grecques au IV siècle a.C (Première partie)
Authors: Fröhlich Pierre
Published: February 2024

In the fourth century BC, contrary to a communis opinio, military officials were never able to break completely free from the domination of their poleis. This was true both in Athens (part I), and in the rest of the Ancient Greek world (part II). Moreover, their «civilian » duties had the effect of placing them in the forefront of the cities’ political life.
La parenté de Comelia Scriboniae filia et le tombeau des Scipions
Authors: Etcheto Henri
Published: February 2024

L’examen des deux épitaphes les plus tardives du tombeau des Scipions permet de trancher la question longtemps discutée de la parenté de Cornelia, la fille de Scribonia et soeur utérine de Julie, dont Properce honora la mémoire dans l’une de ses Élégies (IV, 11). Authentique descendante des Scipions, cette dame était la fille du consulaire L. Lentulus (cos.suff. 38 av. J.-C.). Elle mourut en 18 av. J.-C., l’année du consulat de son frère Cn. Cornelius L.f. Lentulus.
Proyección política e imagen pública de las elites locales del Conuentus Caesaraugustanus en época altoimperial a partir de la documentación epigráfica
Authors: Andreu Pintado Javier
Published: February 2024

This work is concerned with shedding more light on the definition of the political and economical elite of conuentus Caesaraugustanus in Hispania Citerior. This is rendered possible through the analysis of information supplied by epigraphic documentation which includes magistracy practice and municipal priesthood, reception of civic honours by the community or other institutions and evergetic practice. This study is also concerned with the definition of the main groups of families which acted as the conuentus elite as well as their connections and their geographical situation.
La Στομαλίμνη dans la Géographie de Strabon : réalité géographique ou mythe littéraire homérique ?
Authors: Compatangelo Rita
Published: February 2024

Στομαλίμνη (« mouth of the marsh ») is a rare word mostly used by Strabo. It describes the silting of coastal lands by rivers, creating marshes and salt lagoons at their mouths ; so one may suppose that it was a technical word, as the physical processes described by Strabo tally with recent geo-archaeological researches. However, as this paper shows, Στομαλίμνη first appeared as a Hellenistic variant to the text of the Iliad, giving its name to a specific location on the Trojan coast. Thus becoming part of the mythical landscape of Troy, the word Στομαλίμνη again by Strabo expert Western Greek historians as a fossil-landmark of the coasts of southern Italy where -according to legends -some of Homer’s heroes had landed.
La malédiction des Julio-Claudiens dans l'Octavie
Authors: Deschamps Lucienne
Published: February 2024

Cette étude s’efforce de démontrer que dans l'Octavie du Pseudo-Sénèque, au V. 259, furore marque le moyen, non la cause et elle cherche l’origine de la punition infligée par Vénus, origine qui pourrait être le comportement d’Octavien durant les guerres civiles.
Design and Evaluation of Synthetic Delivery Formulations for Peptide-Based Cancer Vaccines
Authors: Song Kefan , Pun Suzie H.
Published: February 2024

With the recent advances in neoantigen identification, peptide-based cancer vaccines offer substantial potential in the field of immunotherapy. However, rapid clearance, low immunogenicity, and insufficient antigen-presenting cell (APC) uptake limit the efficacy of peptide-based cancer vaccines. This review explores the barriers hindering vaccine efficiency, highlights recent advancements in synthetic delivery systems, and features strategies for the key delivery steps of lymph node (LN) drainage, APC delivery, cross-presentation strategies, and adjuvant incorporation. This paper also discusses the design of preclinical studies evaluating vaccine efficiency, including vaccine administration routes and murine tumor models.
Enhanced Postsurgical Cancer Treatment Using Methacrylated Glycol Chitosan Hydrogel for Sustained DNA/Doxorubicin Delivery and Immunotherapy
Authors: Seo Hee Seung , Han Jun-Hyeok , Lim Jaesung , Bae Ga-Hyun , Byun Min Ji , Wang Chi-Pin James , Han Jieun , Park Juwon , Park Hee Ho , Shin Mikyung , Park Tae-Eun , Kim Tae-Hyung , Kim Se-Na , Park Wooram , Park Chun Gwon
Published: February 2024

Background:
Cancer recurrence and metastasis are major contributors to treatment failure following tumor resection surgery. We developed a novel implantable drug delivery system utilizing glycol chitosan to address these issues. Glycol chitosan is a natural adjuvant, inducing dendritic cell activation to promote T helper 1 cell immune responses, macrophage activation, and cytokine production. Effective antigen production by dendritic cells initiates T-cell-mediated immune responses, aiding tumor growth control.
Methods:
In this study, we fabricated multifunctional methacrylated glycol chitosan (MGC) hydrogels with extended release of DNA/doxorubicin (DOX) complex for cancer immunotherapy. We constructed the resection model of breast cancer to verify the anticancer effects of MGC hydrogel with DNA/DOX complex.
Results:
This study demonstrated the potential of MGC hydrogel with extended release of DNA/DOX complex for local and efficient cancer therapy. The MGC hydrogel was implanted directly into the surgical site after tumor resection, activating tumor-related immune cells both locally and over a prolonged period of time through immune-reactive molecules.
Conclusions:
The MGC hydrogel effectively suppressed tumor recurrence and metastasis while enhancing immunotherapeutic efficacy and minimizing side effects. This biomaterial-based drug delivery system, combined with cancer immunotherapy, can substantial improve treatment outcomes and patient prognosis.
Predicted Climate Change Impacts on Distribution and Habitat Structure of Forest Ungulates in Southwest China
Authors: Feng Bin , Xiao Yu , Hu Lu , Yang Xu , Dong Xin , Zhang Jindong , Yang Zhisong , Qi Dunwu , Zhou Caiquan , Bai Wenke
Published: February 2024

Climate change will impact the distribution of species and their preferred habitat, thereby influencing the ecological processes intrinsic to these species. To investigate these phenomena, we analyzed the habitat distribution, structure, and connectivity of 6 forest ungulate species in Southwest China under current and future climate scenarios. Habitat projections indicate that forest ungulates will migrate to the southwest at higher elevations and the northwest at higher latitudes and elevations in the study area under climate change. The extent to which climate change affects the 6 forest ungulates is quite different. By 2050, there will still be a certain range of habitats for migration in the study area, but the habitat quality of species will have decreased to varying degrees after migration. By 2070, most forest ungulates will begin to experience significant habitat loss and habitat quality decline. The migration of species habitat also leads to a change in species habitat structure. Habitat landscape quality declines for most forest ungulate species. The loss of patches at the junction habitat has a huge impact on species habitat connectivity. The number and distance of corridors between the marginal habitat patches and the core habitat patches increase to a certain extent. To better achieve biodiversity conservation, we should strengthen the restoration and connectivity management of fragmented habitats to protect and restore the current habitats of species. Examples include the management of specific key areas and the establishment of large-scale integrated protected areas such as the Giant Panda National Park.