bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Major Shifts in Sustainable Consumer Behavior in Romania and Retailers’ Priorities in Agilely Adapting to It
Authors: Purcărea Theodor , Ioan-Franc Valeriu , Ionescu Ştefan-Alexandru , Purcărea Ioan Matei , Purcărea Victor Lorin , Purcărea Irina , Mateescu-Soare Maria Cristina , Platon Otilia-Elena , Orzan Anca-Olguța
Published: January 2022

The sustainable consumption and integration of digital solutions with respect to sustainable consumption have been encouraged by the new European circular economy action plan. Digital adoption has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic; companies have been challenged to rapidly adapt to the constant evolution of consumer needs and expectations, leading to valuable insights into the advancement of green business practices and a consequent rethinking of their business model. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the major shifts in sustainable consumer behavior on the Romanian retail market within the context of the Green European Deal, and retailers’ priorities in agilely adapting to these significant evolutions. Based on a comprehensive literature review on these major shifts and significant evolutions at the national and international levels, a quantitative study was carried out to evaluate the Romanian retail market and identify the major challenges faced by retailers in dealing with the new set of priorities. The data collection was conducted via a survey used in the retail environment, applied within a Romanian supermarket chain. The Romanian retail sector has a particular configuration, which may have an impact upon the study’s generalizability. Located in Central and Eastern Europe at the crossroads of the EU, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), and the Middle East, Romania is a leading destination for foreign direct investment, and it is recognized for the similarities of its distribution and sales channels, the range of its retail outlets, and the local retail market dominance on the Big Box segment by reputed major retailers. A spectacular evolution is recorded in Romania’s e-commerce market, including from the point of view of the long-standing and memorable traditional relationship between Romania and China which was confirmed more recently by Romanian consumers who prefer to buy online from stores in China. Our consumer research provides retailers with deep consumer insights with regard to their priorities in their agile adaptation. According to our research, Romanian consumers are environmentally concerned consumers, displaying an increased awareness about the important role they play with respect to impacting sustainable production and consumption by adopting green purchase behavior. Our study also points to the fact that retailers, although faced with challenges in targeting consumers with customized messages to reinforce their brand perception on sustainability issues, do pay considerable attention to sustainability as a personal value embraced by consumers and are willing to focus on digitizing their business processes to enable new, sustainable business models.
Economic Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Will It Be a Barrier to Achieving Sustainability?
Authors: Choi Yoonkyung , Kim Hyun-ju , Lee Yoon
Published: January 2022

This study quantitatively analyzes the economic impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis on Korea and other major nations using the standard Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) model. Based on the GTAP9a database, we created three scenarios that differed in the severity of the impact of COVID-19, divided the economic shocks witnessed in each scenario into three stages, and applied them at varying degrees to six regions and 10 industry sectors. The results revealed an increase in investments and a decrease in GDP, income, production, and exports, with private household expenditure and export value showing the largest declines in all regions. Under Scenario BA, the export value of the tourism industry decreased by approximately 28%, and private household expenditure on tourism industry imports declined by 33.4% on average across all regions. Conversely, government expenditure increased following the economic recession and increased tax revenue. The results showed similar trends across regions and sectors, with only slight variances according to each region’s economic structural characteristics. By shedding light on proposals and approaches to overcome the global economic crisis amid the ongoing pandemic, this study provides baseline data for devising more practical, detailed response plans and policy directions for potential future calamities.
Environmental Mainstreaming in Greek TEN-T Ports
Authors: Chlomoudis Constantinos , Pallis Petros , Platias Charalampos
Published: January 2022

Along with recent fundamental changes in several aspects of the port industry, ports come up against formidable environmental challenges. It is thus important and often imperative to mainstream environmental concerns in their operation, planning, and development; improve their environmental performance; and make the transition to sustainable production and consumption patterns. The industry’s greening is largely underpinned by European Union (EU) transport and port policy, with major European initiatives such as the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), the European Green Deal, and Blue Growth expected to give new impetus. This paper examines environmental mainstreaming in Greek TEN-T ports and their ability to cope with upcoming challenges based on questionnaire responses by 23 port authorities and taking into account the relevant progress made by ESPO port members. We argue that all respondents have gradually become aware of the need to move towards an environment-friendly operation and development, but progress is slow, and there is still a lot to be done. Performances vary and depend on different factors, while ports are faced with significant challenges and various constraints. Nevertheless, new environmental standards present a real opportunity for Greek ports to undertake deep structural changes, especially in view of current and future European port policy.
Estimating the Socio-Economic Value of Dance Curriculum as Public Education in Korea for Sustainable Development: Using Contingent Valuation Method
Authors: Kim Jian , Yoon Jeongok
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine the socioeconomic value of dance curricula as public education for sustainable development. To demonstrate the legitimacy of dance programming in the arts curriculum, we sought to determine which of the contingent valuation methods (CVMs) is best suited to the application of the WTP model and how the socioeconomic value of school dance is ultimately evaluated. As a research method, we leverage CVM, which is widely used in practical policy research. The results of this study are as follows: As a result of estimating the socioeconomic value of school dances conducted by public education, additional income tax payment was estimated at KRW 22,367 per person. Suppose this is translated into approximately 5.452 million school-aged people (as of 2020, KOSIS), the total benefits of a school dance in Korean public education could be interpreted as an annual utility value of about KRW 121,944,884,000. This study has academic significance in that it demonstrates the socioeconomic value of school dance education as education for sustainable development. In addition, it has practical significance in that it can be used for institutional improvements and policy budgeting.
Facilitating Conservation and Bridging Gaps for the Sustainable Exploitation of the Tunisian Local Endemic Plant Marrubium aschersonii (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Pipinis Elias , Hatzilazarou Stefanos , Kostas Stefanos , Bourgou Soumaya , Megdiche-Ksouri Wided , Ghrabi-Gammar Zeineb , Libiad Mohamed , Khabbach Abdelmajid , El Haissoufi Mohamed , Lamchouri Fatima , Koundourakis Emmanouil , Greveniotis Vasileios , Papaioannou Evgenia , Sakellariou Michalia A. , Anestis Ioannis , Tsoktouridis Georgios , Krigas Nikos
Published: January 2022

In the frame of conservation and sustainable utilization of neglected and underutilized phytogenetic resources, this study produced for the first time a detailed ecological profiling for the local Tunisian endemic Marrubium ascheronii (Lamiaceae) using Geographical Information Systems and open-source data. This profile was used to illustrate the abiotic environmental conditions of its wild habitats; the profile facilitated the examination of the effect of temperature on its seed germination and may inform species-specific guidelines for its cultivation in man-made environments. With effective seed propagation firstly reported herein (68.75% at 20 °C), species-specific in situ conservation efforts and ex situ conservation or sustainable exploitation strategies were enabled for M. aschersonii. The first-reported molecular authentication (DNA barcoding) of M. aschersonii may facilitate its traceability, allowing for product design. This study also reports for the first time the effects of chemical and integrated nutrient management (INM) fertilizers on the growth and pilot cultivation of M. aschersonii seedlings, with the latter being advantageous. This multidisciplinary approach has bridged important research gaps that hindered the conservation efforts and/or the sustainable exploitation for this local endemic plant of Tunisia. Based on all the above, we re-evaluated and updated the feasibility and readiness timescale for sustainable exploitation of M. aschersonii in the medicinal-cosmetic, agro-alimentary and ornamental-horticultural sectors.
Analysis of Conservation Gaps and Landscape Connectivity for Snow Leopard in Qilian Mountains of China
Authors: Li Ye , Zhang Yu , Xue Yadong , Zhang Yuguang , Zhang Yu , Gao Yayue , Li Diqiang
Published: January 2022

Human modification and habitat fragmentation have a substantial influence on large carnivores, which need extensive, contiguous habitats to survive in a landscape. The establishment of protected areas is an effective way to offer protection for carnivore populations by buffering them from anthropogenic impacts. In this study, we used MaxEnt to model habitat suitability and to identify conservation gaps for snow leopard (Panthera uncia) in the Qilian Mountains of China, and then assessed the impact of highways/railways and their corridors on habitat connectivity using a graph-based landscape connectivity model. Our results indicated that the study area had 51,137 km2 of potentially suitable habitat for snow leopards and that there were four protection gaps outside of Qilian Mountain National Park. The findings revealed that the investigated highway and railway resulted in a decrease in connectivity at a regional scale, and that corridor development might enhance regional connectivity, which strengthens the capacity of central habitat patches to act as stepping stones and improve connections between western and eastern habitat patches. This study emphasized the need for assessing the impact of highways and railways, as well as their role in corridor development, on species’ connectivity. Based on our results, we provide some detailed recommendations for designing protection action plans for effectively protecting snow leopard habitat and increasing habitat connectivity.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Environmental Training for Diving Tourists Using the DEA Model
Authors: Huang Chin-Wei , Ng Eric , Fang Wei-Ta , Lo Li
Published: January 2022

This study proposes an approach based on data envelopment analysis to assess the effectiveness of environmental training for tourists. Most studies have considered only outcomes (i.e., the continuance or halting of improper behavior towards the environment) to represent the effectiveness of environmental training but this approach does not consider the amount of resources that have been applied in the process. The model utilizes input and output factors to estimate the index of effectiveness. We used a survey of underwater tourist activity to test the proposed model in the empirical evaluation and explored both the internal and external influences on the effectiveness.
The Effect of Ash Admixture on Compost Quality and Availability of Nutrients
Authors: Dědina Martin , Jarošíková Alice , Plíva Petr , Dubský Martin
Published: January 2022

The effect of graded doses of ash from biomass wood chips and straw admixture combustion on compost properties was investigated through a set of large-scale experiments. In a compost plant, matured organic composts were prepared from raw organic mixtures based on biodegradable waste, separated digestate, straw, and biomass ash admixture of 0, 3, 6, and 9 wt. %. Final composts, as well as individual components, were analyzed for basic physical and chemical properties, total and available nutrients, and potentially hazardous elements. Biomass ash addition increased the total nutrient content (P, K, Mg, Ca, and S) in the studied composts. The highest ash addition (9 wt. %) increased the nutrient content as follows: Ca (2.6×), Mg (1.6×), K (1.5×), P (1.2×), S (1.3×). However, the availability of some nutrients (especially P, K, and Mg) for plant nutrition was reduced by the increasing amount of ash admixture. Even at the highest dosage of biomass ash addition, desirable chemical (nutrient content) and physical properties of composts (especially dry bulk density) were both obtained. The content of hazardous elements was below the legal limit values in all studied composts.
Fiscal Success: Creating Quality Infrastructure in a Post-COVID World
Authors: Langston Craig , Crowley Charles
Published: January 2022

Governments are engaged in unprecedented fiscal support, particularly regarding public infrastructure, as stimulus to economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a necessary response to increased unemployment and the collateral damage to consumer confidence and spending. Keeping people employed via nation-building projects, especially involving transport infrastructure, and their supply chains is a key objective and has the potential to deliver assets that support long-term productive capacity. Nevertheless, it is critical that public infrastructure is of appropriate quality to ensure projects are progressive, governments manage long-term benefits realization and critical resources are not wasted through hidden future liabilities. This research explores and discusses the extent of agreement between the G20 policy framework on quality infrastructure investment (process theory) against a leading project success evaluation method (process practice) by mapping both artefacts using qualitative content analysis. It is found that project success evaluation offers a ‘high’ thematic match against G20 policy ideals and therefore provides an opportunity for project managers to ensure investments in quality infrastructure are indeed realized. This contributes to progressive infrastructure outcomes that take into consideration financial, social, ethical and environmental consequences. Fiscal success is equated to project success in this context.
Going Beyond Global Indicators—Policy Relevant Indicators for SDG 6 Targets in the Context of Austria
Authors: Germann Verena , Langergraber Günter
Published: January 2022

Bringing forward sustainable transformation as envisioned within the Agenda 2030 requires comprehensive monitoring of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) formulated therein. To monitor and report progress on goal 6 on clean water and sanitation and its eight pertinent targets, 11 indicators were stipulated in an elaborated process. Yet, through continuous scientific and public scrutiny and debate several gaps and weaknesses were identified. Amongst others, these globally defined indicators are found to reflect weakly the diversity of national realities, capacities and levels of development. To translate the targets into national contexts and fully cover all aspects of the SDG 6 targets, the utilization of complementary indicators is recommended. Within this paper, following a critical appraisal of the SDG 6 indicators, possible complementary indicators are collected from literature and screened based on their quality, relevance for the national context and data availability. A deepened status quo of the SDG 6 targets and corresponding problem areas are outlined for the context of Austria, where water and sanitation infrastructure as well as regulation and governance of water bodies are widely established. Despite increasing the monitoring effort, it is concluded that complementary indicators are practicable to support coherent policy-making and ultimately contribute to the Agenda 2030’s aspiration that all countries take action.
Microclimates Potentially Shape Spatial Distribution of Facial Expressions for Urban Forest Visitors: A Regional Study of 30 Parks in North China
Authors: Mao Bin , Liang Fang , Li Zhaozhong , Zheng Wenqing
Published: January 2022

Promotion of mental well-being is a desired goal of service in sustainable urban forest management. Microclimate is impacted by forest settings which makes ecosystem services perceived by users. Changes of regional meteorological factors drive responses of emotional perceptions as spatial distribution pattern in accordance with regional urban forest landscapes. In this study, we collected a total of 1422 pairs of happy and sad scores for visitors in 30 urban parks around Shanxi province in North China, where local meteorological were obtained specially for each location as daily matched records. Happy expression scores increased along a latitudinal gradient from south to north. Microclimate did not have any relationship with emotional expressions, but factors of rainfall, wind velocity, average temperature, and relative humidity all had potential contributions to shape distributions of happy and sad scores. The relationship between meteorological records of wind velocity and average temperature and their potential contributions to happy scores can be described by quadratic polynomial functions. Overall, we recommend an environment of urban parks that can optimize emotional well-being with environments of wind velocity of 5.36 m s−1 and average temperature of 6.05 °C in cities around Shanxi in North China. Therefore, microclimates can shape the regional distributions of urban forest ecosystem services of promoting mental well-being, in a way as implicit drivers instead of explicit forces.
It Is a Balancing Act: The Interface of Scientific Evidence and Policy in Support of Effective Marine Environmental Management
Authors: Lonsdale Jemma-Anne , Gill Andrew B. , Alliji Khatija , Birchenough Silvana N. R. , Blake Sylvia , Buckley Holly , Clarke Charlotte , Clarke Stacey , Edmonds Nathan , Fonseca Leila , Goodsir Freya , Griffith Andrew , Judd Adrian , Mulholland Rachel , Perry Joe , Randall Karema , Wood Daniel
Published: January 2022

The marine environment is a complex system, and with growing human demand, the sustainable use of multiple marine resources is continually challenged. The increasing complexity of overlapping marine activities causes pressures on the environment. Here, we review the fundamental aspects for effective marine management, particularly the role of science and scientific evidence to inform marine policy and decision making. The outcomes of internal expert workshops were used to analyse currently applied marine management practices in the UK using four marine sectors in English waters based on the expertise: environmental impact assessments; dredge and disposal operations; marine protected areas; and offshore renewable energy. Strengths, weaknesses, and commonalities between these sectors were assessed in terms of their effectiveness for marine management. Finally, we make recommendations based on the outputs to better inform effective yet sustainable marine management. The importance of increasing accessibility to data, hypothesis-driven environmental monitoring, streamlining funding opportunities and ensuring effective dissemination of data to ensure scientific outcomes and achieve increased robustness of assessments is emphasised. We also recommend that assessment drivers align with the outputs and approaches should be holistic and engage with the public to ensure a shared understanding and vision.
Modularized Design of ACDCD: An Improved Spectral Clustering-Based Approach
Authors: Bi Qiu-Ping , Li Yu-Cheng , Li Rong , Shen Cheng , Lou Huan-Zhi , Zhang Yuan-Yuan
Published: January 2022

The air curtain dust control device (ACDCD) utilizes the air curtain formed by high-speed gas ejected from an injection cavity to separate the driver working area from the roadheader pollution area, so as to achieve the purpose of dust control. The existing ACDCDs are customized for various roadheaders and various production conditions, which are not flexible enough and are difficult to industrialize. Meanwhile, the existing ACDCD has drawbacks such as its costly maintenance, difficulty in replacement of the core parts, and costly iterative design of products. Due to the growing resource demand and sustainable development needs, the ACDCD should be designed considering the full life cycle technology of the product. In this paper, we proposed a modular method of the ACDCD based on improved spectral cluster module division and proposed an improved air curtain dust control device (IACDCD). Specifically, a similarity matrix construction method considering the functional and structural correlation matrix of components was proposed to strengthen the connection relationship of components. Two existing ACDCDs and the IACDCD were modularized using the improved spectral cluster module division method. The results showed that the improved spectral clustering module division method could effectively improve the clustering effect. The results of the module division of the three ACDCDs proved that the IACDCD could effectively increase the replaceability and maintenance of the injection cavity, and then reduce the maintenance cost and iterative design cost of the ACDCD.
Evaluation and Projection of Diurnal Temperature Range in Maize Cultivation Areas in China Based on CMIP6 Models
Authors: Xie Wenqiang , Wang Shuangshuang , Yan Xiaodong
Published: January 2022

The diurnal temperature range (DTR) is an important meteorological component affecting maize yield. The accuracy of climate models simulating DTR directly affects the projection of maize production. We evaluate the ability of 26 Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) models to simulate DTR during 1961–2014 in maize cultivation areas with the observation (CN05.1), and project DTR under different shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP) scenarios. The root mean square error (RMSE), standard deviation (SD), Kling-Gupta efficiency (KGE) and comprehensive rating index (CRI) are used in the evaluation of the optimal model. The results show that CMIP6 models can generally reproduce the spatial distribution. The reproducibility of the annual average DTR in the maize cultivation areas is better than that in China but lower for the maize-growing season. The optimal model (EC-Earth3-Veg-LR) is used in the projection. Under the two SSPs, the DTR decreases compared with the historical period, especially in Northwest and North China. The DTR under SSP245 remains unchanged (annual) or increases slightly (growing season) during 2015–2050, while a significant decreasing trend is observed under SSP585. This highlights the importance of evaluating DTR in maize cultivation areas, which is helpful to further improve the accuracy of maize yield prediction.
Organic Waste Management and Circular Bioeconomy: A Literature Review Comparison between Latin America and the European Union
Authors: Bottausci Sara , Midence Roger , Serrano-Bernardo Francisco , Bonoli Alessandra
Published: January 2022

Worldwide, organic waste represents one of the most significant shares in the waste management system. Within the framework of circular bioeconomy, new and cutting-edge infrastructure has been developed at the European level to turn organic waste into valuable resources. The present paper aims to provide an exhaustive comparison between the European Union and Latin America regarding organic waste valorization. To this end, an introductive analysis about the state of the art circular bioeconomy in Latin America and Caribbean countries was developed. Subsequently, a systematic literature review in the context of South and Central America was conducted to detect differences and similarities in technologies and best practices for treating biowaste. The results show that the Latin American region is home to numerous bio-based infrastructures: biogas recovery, composting facilities and bioremediation strategies. Nevertheless, a conclusive remark underlines that some social, economic and political barriers are still encountered in the region, and therefore, new and locally-based studies are of paramount importance.
Influence of Tourism Safety Perception on Destination Image: A Case Study of Xinjiang, China
Authors: Ding Guijin , Wu Jinfeng
Published: January 2022

Tourism safety perception is one of the factors influencing destination image, but there is a lack of systematic research on the multidimensional influence of tourism safety perception on destination image. In this paper, based on the survey data collected from 623 tourists traveling in Xinjiang, China, we classified the respondents into three types of high, medium, and low levels of tourism safety perception by cluster analysis, and studied the influence of tourism safety perception on destination image in multiple dimensions by means of content analysis, diversity index, one-way ANOVA, and factor analysis. We found that tourism safety perception significantly affects the cognitive image, affective image, and conative image of the destination. Tourists with a high safety perception evaluate and affectively experience destination attributes more positively with higher satisfaction and stronger willingness to revisit and recommend. Tourism safety perception affects the stereotype image of the destination to a certain extent. Tourists in general produce a broadly homogeneous stereotype image, but there are differences in diversity and emotions. Tourists with a high safety perception have a richer and more positive stereotype image. This study enriches and deepens the theory regarding the influence of tourism safety perception on destination image, and also provides a richer theoretical basis for destination image construction and precision marketing.
Resource Availability and Implications for the Development of Plug-In Electric Vehicles
Authors: Egbue Ona , Long Suzanna , Kim Seong Dae
Published: January 2022

Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) have immense potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, and for smart grid applications. Although a great deal of research is focused on technological limitations that affect PEV battery performance targets, a major and arguably equal concern is the constraint imposed by the finite availability of elements or resources used in the manufacture of PEV batteries. Availability of resources, such as lithium, for batteries is critical to the future of PEVs and is, therefore, a topic that needs attention. This study addresses the issues related to lithium availability and sustainability, particularly supply and demand related to PEVs and the impact on future PEV growth. In this paper, a detailed review of the research on lithium availability for PEV batteries is presented, key challenges are pinpointed and future impacts on PEV technology are outlined.
Numerical Study on the Reinforcement Measures of Tunneling on Adjacent Piles
Authors: Qiu Hongsheng , Wang Zhe , Ayasrah Mo’men , Fu Chuanbang , Gang Luo
Published: January 2022

Tunnel construction will inevitably change the surrounding soil’s original stress and displacement fields, affecting the surrounding piles. In addition, the lateral displacement of the soil at the subway tunnel’s face is symmetrically distributed along the tunnel’s central axis, which is greater in the center and smaller on both sides. Therefore, the protection of existing piles and providing a reasonable reinforcement plan have become the focus of attention. Taking a section of Tianjin Metro Line 3 as the research object, this paper studies the influence of the shield tunnel excavation process on the existing pile foundation through three-dimensional finite element simulation. The model has been verified through field monitoring data. Then, parameter analysis has been carried out for two reinforcement measures: grout reinforcement and isolation pile construction. According to the research results, the impact of shield construction on the pile foundation is mainly within the range of twice tunnel diameter to the pile foundation from the front and back of the tunnel face. In addition, the grouting reinforcement has better control of the vertical displacement of the existing pile foundation. The construction of isolation piles can better control the lateral displacement of the existing pile foundation. Have certain reference significance for similar projects.
A Novel Twin Support Vector Machine with Generalized Pinball Loss Function for Pattern Classification
Authors: Panup Wanida , Ratipapongton Wachirapong , Wangkeeree Rabian
Published: January 2022

We introduce a novel twin support vector machine with the generalized pinball loss function (GPin-TSVM) for solving data classification problems that are less sensitive to noise and preserve the sparsity of the solution. In addition, we use a symmetric kernel trick to enlarge GPin-TSVM to nonlinear classification problems. The developed approach is tested on numerous UCI benchmark datasets, as well as synthetic datasets in the experiments. The comparisons demonstrate that our proposed algorithm outperforms existing classifiers in terms of accuracy. Furthermore, this employed approach in handwritten digit recognition applications is examined, and the automatic feature extractor employs a convolution neural network.
The Caspase Homologues in Scallop Chlamys farreri and Their Expression Responses to Toxic Dinoflagellates Exposure
Authors: Wei Zhongcheng , Ding Wei , Li Moli , Shi Jiaoxia , Wang Huizhen , Wang Yangrui , Li Yubo , Xu Yiqiang , Hu Jingjie , Bao Zhenmin , Hu Xiaoli
Published: January 2022

The cysteine aspartic acid-specific protease (caspase) family is distributed across vertebrates and invertebrates, and its members are involved in apoptosis and response to cellular stress. The Zhikong scallop (Chlamys farreri) is a bivalve mollusc that is well adapted to complex marine environments, yet the diversity of caspase homologues and their expression patterns in the Zhikong scallop remain largely unknown. Here, we identified 30 caspase homologues in the genome of the Zhikong scallop and analysed their expression dynamics during all developmental stages and following exposure to paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs). The 30 caspase homologues were classified as initiators (caspases-2/9 and caspases-8/10) or executioners (caspases-3/6/7 and caspases-3/6/7-like) and displayed increased copy numbers compared to those in vertebrates. Almost all of the caspase-2/9 genes were highly expressed throughout all developmental stages from zygote to juvenile, and their expression in the digestive gland and kidney was slightly influenced by PSTs. The caspase-8/10 genes were highly expressed in the digestive gland and kidney, while PSTs inhibited their expression in these two organs. After exposure to different Alexandrium PST-producing algae (AM-1 and ACDH), the number of significantly up-regulated caspase homologues in the digestive gland increased with the toxicity level of PST derivatives, which might be due to the higher toxicity of GTXs produced by AM-1 compared to the N-sulphocarbamoyl analogues produced by ACDH. However, the effect of these two PST-producing algae strains on caspase expression in the kidney seemed to be stronger, possibly because the PST derivatives were transformed into highly toxic compounds in scallop kidney, and suggested an organ-dependent response to PSTs. These results indicate the dedicated control of caspase gene expression and highlight their contribution to PSTs in C. farreri. This work provides a further understanding of the role of caspase homologues in the Zhikong scallop and can guide future studies focussing on the role of caspases and their interactions with PSTs.
The Spread of SARS-CoV-2 Variant Omicron with a Doubling Time of 2.0–3.3 Days Can Be Explained by Immune Evasion
Authors: Grabowski Frederic , Kochańczyk Marek , Lipniacki Tomasz
Published: January 2022

Omicron, the novel highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern (VOC, Pango lineage B.1.1.529) was first collected in early November 2021 in South Africa. By the end of November 2021, it had spread and approached fixation in South Africa, and had been detected on all continents. We analyzed the exponential growth of Omicron over four-week periods in the two most populated of South Africa’s provinces, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, arriving at the doubling time estimates of, respectively, 3.3 days (95% CI: 3.2–3.4 days) and 2.7 days (95% CI: 2.3–3.3 days). Similar or even shorter doubling times were observed in other locations: Australia (3.0 days), New York State (2.5 days), UK (2.4 days), and Denmark (2.0 days). Log–linear regression suggests that the spread began in Gauteng around 11 October 2021; however, due to presumable stochasticity in the initial spread, this estimate can be inaccurate. Phylogenetics-based analysis indicates that the Omicron strain started to diverge between 6 October and 29 October 2021. We estimated that the weekly growth of the ratio of Omicron to Delta is in the range of 7.2–10.2, considerably higher than the growth of the ratio of Delta to Alpha (estimated to be in in the range of 2.5–4.2), and Alpha to pre-existing strains (estimated to be in the range of 1.8–2.7). High relative growth does not necessarily imply higher Omicron infectivity. A two-strain SEIR model suggests that the growth advantage of Omicron may stem from immune evasion, which permits this VOC to infect both recovered and fully vaccinated individuals. As we demonstrated within the model, immune evasion is more concerning than increased transmissibility, because it can facilitate larger epidemic outbreaks.
Seroprevalence of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Benadir Region, Somalia
Authors: Adam Mohamed Hussein , Mohamoud Jamal Hasan , Mohamood Abdiaziz S. , Mohamed Ahmed A. , Garba Bashiru , Dirie Najib Isse
Published: January 2022

Only little is known about the true extent of COVID-19 in Somalia. The study aims to assess the seroprevalence of the COVID-19 pandemics in the Benadir region using SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and estimate the number of inhabitants infected with SARS-CoV-2. Population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted to measure the seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in the Benadir region (Mogadishu city). In the study, we enrolled 2500 Mogadishu city residents aged ≥18 years who did not receive the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. The overall seroprevalence of IgG/IgM anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was 44.8%. The seropositivity in females (56.6%) was higher than in males (46.2%). The trend in seropositivity increased with age; however, the variation was only significant in the age group 38–57 with an odds ratio and p-value of 4.11 (1.475–11.47), p = 0.007. Families with >5 members (47.2%) were more likely to test positive than those with <5 members (37%). Participants who reported COVID-19 symptoms during the pandemics or who had contact with COVID-19 patients had significantly increased IgG prevalence. Participants with larger families, individuals working in the public sector, and students showed significant seropositive results. Therefore, precautionary measures should be heightened for individuals working in the public sector.
The Italian Version of the Adult Vaccine Hesitancy Scale (aVHS) for the Working-Age Population: Cross-Cultural Adaptation, Reliability, and Validity
Authors: Ledda Caterina , Costantino Claudio , Liberti Giuseppe , Rapisarda Venerando
Published: January 2022

The adult Vaccine Hesitancy Scale (aVHS) is valid and reliable for evaluating attitudes toward vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the cross-cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity of the Italian version of the aVHS. After cross-cultural adaptation of the aVHS, internal consistency (IC), intra-class correlation (ICC), and content validity (S-CVI) were evaluated through a survey on 160 workers. Results of the ICC were analyzed on questionnaires administered twice at a distance of two months and revealed a satisfactory reproducibility (0.87). The IC of the aVHS was assessed by the Cronbach alpha coefficient test, with a result of 0.94, demonstrating an excellent IC reliability. The S-CVI calculated for the total scale was 0.97. The aVHS is a valid and reliable tool for evaluating vaccine hesitancy toward adult vaccinations. We suggest the use of this scale in upcoming surveys on opinions and perceptions of adult vaccinations.
The Translational Role of Animal Models for Estrogen-Related Functional Bladder Outlet Obstruction and Prostatic Inflammation
Authors: Santti Risto , Yatkin Emrah , Bernoulli Jenni , Streng Tomi
Published: January 2022

The prevalence of LUTS and prostatic diseases increases with age both in humans and companion animals, suggesting that a common underlying cause of these conditions may be age-associated alterations in the balance of sex hormones. The symptoms are present with different and variable micturition dysfunctions and can be assigned to different clinical conditions including bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). LUTS may also be linked to chronic non-bacterial prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), but the relationship between these conditions is unknown. This review summarizes the preclinical data that supports a role for excessive estrogen action in the development of obstructive voiding and nonbacterial prostatic inflammation. Preclinical studies that are emphasized in this review have unequivocally indicated that estrogens can induce functional and structural changes resembling those seen in human diseases. Recognizing excessive estrogen action as a possible hormonal basis for the effects observed at multiple sites in the LUT may inspire the development of innovative treatment options for human and animal patients with LUTS associated with functional BOO and CP/CPPS.
Crop Water-Saving Potential Based on the Stochastic Distance Function: The Case of Liaoning Province of China
Authors: Piao Huilan , Cheng Wanting , Liu Haisheng , Lyu Jie , Zhang Xudong , Sun Shijun
Published: January 2022

Scientific evaluation of crop water use efficiency is of great significance for ascertaining water-saving potential and realizing efficient utilization of water resources. In this paper, we calculated the water footprint of crop growth, pollution water footprint and production water footprint of 14 cities in Liaoning Province, China, by using the water footprint theory, established the crop water use efficiency model of stochastic frontier distance function, and analyzed the spatial-temporal variation characteristics of crop water use efficiency (WUE), ecological WUE and production WUE. Results show that: (1) the average water footprint of crop growth was 1.714 × 109 m3, the ecological water footprint of crop was 6.26 × 108 m3, and the water footprint of crop production was 2.34 × 109 m3 from 2001 to 2017 for the whole province. (2) the WUE of crop growth was 0.821, the crop ecological WUE was 0.845 and crop production was 0.865, respectively. We concluded that Liaoning province can save 17.9% of crop consumption water, equivalent to 8.38 × 108 m3, 15.5% of ecological water, equivalent to 7.25 × 108 m3 and 13.5% of production water, equivalent to 6.32 × 108 m3 by strengthening the popularization of agricultural high-efficiency water use technology and improving the level of policy management. This research provides a basic support for the evaluation of crop water-saving potential with the stochastic frontier approach in other regions.
Perceptions of Social Responsibility for Community Resilience to Flooding: A Comparison between Communities in Indonesia and the UK
Authors: Soetanto Robby , Hermawan Ferry , Drosou Nafsika , Bosher Lee , Hatmoko Jati Utomo Dwi
Published: January 2022

Over the last few decades, flood hazards have had a greater impact on society, meaning that communities increasingly need to work together to enhance their resilience. Literature suggests that preparedness to flooding events is generally low as most individuals do not take protective actions. Therefore, there is a need to stimulate individuals’ actions that increase their own and their communities’ resilience to flooding. Various factors must be addressed to encourage individuals to take action, such as providing information to improve risk perception, understanding cognitive processes that interpret environmental stimuli against the mental model, and considering social and cultural influences. This paper argues that Social Responsibility (SR), defined as an individual willingness to take up actions that benefit society, is part of a pre-existing mental model that can explain intentions to take preparedness actions that improve community resilience. Due to differing socio-cultural contexts, the SR perceptions of communities in different parts of the world may differ. In order to investigate this phenomenon, data of SR perceptions obtained from 180 completed questionnaires were collected from flooded and non-flooded communities in Semarang, Indonesia, and then compared against those obtained from 313 questionnaires based on a survey of communities in Birmingham and London in the UK. The results suggest that Indonesian communities demonstrate a higher level of SR scores than UK communities. A comparison of SR scores between flooded and non-flooded communities in the UK shows a higher level of SR in flooded communities. In contrast, the comparison between corresponding Indonesian communities indicates an almost similar level of SR. A comparison of SR scores between Indonesian and UK flooded communities shows a higher level of SR in Indonesian communities across several measures. Further comparison of SR scores between Indonesia and UK non-flooded communities demonstrates higher SR in Indonesian communities in all but one measure. This suggests that experience of flooding has a much stronger influence on raising SR perceptions in UK communities. Socio-cultural background may explain these differences in SR perceptions, particularly, in relation to collectivism orientation and the close-knit nature of Indonesian communities. Although higher SR perceptions do not necessarily mean higher levels of preparedness actions, this finding illuminates the important influence of socio-cultural context on community resilience enhancing efforts that rely on collective actions by individuals.
Działalność duszpasterska jezuitow w Wilnie: między reformą trydencką a lokalnymi uwarunkowaniami / Ganytojiška jėzuitų veikla Vilniuje: tarp Tridento reformos ir vietos sąlygų
Authors: Mariani Andrea
Published: January 2022

DZIAŁALNOŚĆ DUSZPASTERSKA JEZUITÓW W WILNIE: MIĘDZY REFORMĄ TRYDENCKĄ A LOKALNYMI UWARUNKOWANIAMI Adnotacja. Artykuł przedstawia działalność duszpasterską jezuitów w Wilnie w kontekście odnowy Kościoła katolickiego zapoczątkowanej przez Sobór Trydencki. Autor omawia różnorodne aspekty aktywności zakonników, takie jak kaznodziejstwo, krzewienie kultu świętych i Najświętszej Maryi Panny oraz działalność studenckich kongregacji mariańskich i bractw przeznaczonych dla dorosłych. Słowa kluczowe: Towarzystwo Jezusowe, Wielkie Księstwo Litewskie, Wilno, duszpasterstwo, Sobór Trydencki.
Profesinės inteligentijos gimimas: Jono Bobrovskio (1777–1823) gyvenimo ir kūrybos atvejis
Authors: Mastianica-Stankevič Olga
Published: January 2022

THE BIRTH OF PROFESSIONAL INTELLIGENTSIA:
CASE OF JAN BOBROWSKI’S (1777–1823) LIFE AND CREATION

Through the case study of life and creation of Jan Bobrowski (1777–1823), student at Vilnius university department of literature and free arts, the article analyses how the first generation of professional intelligentsia came to life. Personal life and creation of Jan Bobrowski show, how in the junction of the eighteenth–nineteenth centuries a society was gradually emerging, in which professional career rather than social background was considered the indicator of personal success of a human being. J. Bobrowski chose his life in accordance with his calling. Educational work helped him not only to realise his intellectual aspirations, but also permitted ensurance of his material wellbeing. Active professional intellectual work placed J. Bobrowski among the ranks of the emerging intelligentsia. Educational works of J. Bobrowski served as educational popularization of science, whereas his participation in Vilnius Charity Fellowship had signs of social messiahship. This new group, represented by J. Bobrowski, which did not belong to estate structure, created personal space that matched their expectations. Wife of J. Bobrowski could also realize her creative potential whereas independent educational work provided her with opportunities to leave traditional social role of a woman.

Keywords: professionalization, intelligentsia, estate based structure, the Enlightenment.
Užsienio mokslininko adaptacija Lietuvos Didžiojoje Kunigaikštystėje: dr. Jeano-Emmanuelio Gilibertʼo atvejis
Authors: Parent Arnaud
Published: January 2022

ADAPTATION OF A FOREIGN SCIENTIST IN THE GRAND DUCHY OF LITHUANIA:
CASE OF DR JEAN-EMMANUEL GILIBERT

On the basis of correspondence between Jean-Emmanuel Gilibert and the King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania Stanislaw August, the article reveals issues of adaptation of a foreign scientist in the late eighteenth-century Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The attention is focused on the life of J.-E. Gilibert, his financial situation, his life and work conditions with the emphasis on health problems and psychological situation of the scientist, as well as the circumstances of his return to France.
The research revealed, that one of the most important problems that faced J.-E. Gilibert upon his arrival to the Grand Duchy of Lithuania was the insufficient financing of his life and work. There were problems with his salary as the payments were late by half-year or more. Because of the non-payment of his designated salary, the scientist was forced to borrow with high interest in France and send money to Lithuania. Analysis of the correspondence shows that even upon the ninth year of his arrival to Lithuania, J.-E. Gilibert was still demanding to be paid for the time he was the director of the school in Grodno.
J.-E. Gilibert was not satisfied with his living conditions in Grodno. In his contract with Antoni Tyzenhaus it was stated, that J.-E. Gilibert and his family will be provided with the living quarters suited for his status as doctor. However, the scientist was especially unhappy and even shocked that musicians of the town theatre and dancers lived much more comfortably than he did.
The environment in Grodno also affected psychological condition of the scientist. J.-E. Gilibert enjoyed sharing his observations and to learn from experience of other researchers. However, he seriously lacked such social ties in Grodno. J.-E. Gilibert suffered from the feeling of isolation because he did not speak Polish and was unable to freely communicate with Grodno inhabitants, except for other foreigners.

Keywords: Jean-Emmanuel Gilibert, Royal Medical School in Grodno, everyday life story.