bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic and Phenotypic Characterization of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia albertii Strains Isolated from Wild Birds in a Major Agricultural Region in California
Authors: Carter Michelle Qiu , Quiñones Beatriz , He Xiaohua , Pham Antares , Carychao Diana , Cooley Michael B. , Lo Chien-Chi , Chain Patrick S. G. , Lindsey Rebecca L. , Bono James L.
Published: November 2023

Escherichia albertii is an emerging foodborne pathogen. To better understand the pathogenesis and health risk of this pathogen, comparative genomics and phenotypic characterization were applied to assess the pathogenicity potential of E. albertii strains isolated from wild birds in a major agricultural region in California. Shiga toxin genes stx2f were present in all avian strains. Pangenome analyses of 20 complete genomes revealed a total of 11,249 genes, of which nearly 80% were accessory genes. Both core gene-based phylogenetic and accessory gene-based relatedness analyses consistently grouped the three stx2f-positive clinical strains with the five avian strains carrying ST7971. Among the three Stx2f-converting prophage integration sites identified, ssrA was the most common one. Besides the locus of enterocyte effacement and type three secretion system, the high pathogenicity island, OI-122, and type six secretion systems were identified. Substantial strain variation in virulence gene repertoire, Shiga toxin production, and cytotoxicity were revealed. Six avian strains exhibited significantly higher cytotoxicity than that of stx2f-positive E. coli, and three of them exhibited a comparable level of cytotoxicity with that of enterohemorrhagic E. coli outbreak strains, suggesting that wild birds could serve as a reservoir of E. albertii strains with great potential to cause severe diseases in humans.
The Attendant Card Set: A Research and Design Tool to Consider Perspectives of Attendants versus Users When Co-Experiencing Technology
Authors: von Terzi Pia , Diefenbach Sarah
Published: November 2023

Although many of our interactions with technology nowadays take place in public places (e.g., using a mobile phone in public transportation), research and design on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) has paid little attention to how this kind of technology usage affects others present—and vice versa. To illustrate the perspective of the attendant, i.e., a person who is not interacting with technology themselves but co-experiencing it as listener or viewer, we developed the so-called Attendant Card Set (ACS). In two studies, an expert survey and a student workshop, we tested its practical applicability and usefulness. It showed not only that experts assess the cards positively, i.e., helpful, informative, and relevant, but also that the cards can be used with laypersons for perspective-taking, creative ideation, and discussions. Thus, analyzing and/or comparing the experience of different types with the help of the ACS provides a unique approach to the consideration of the attendant perspective in the research and development process. Limitations of the present research and opportunities for future tool applications are discussed. In addition to establishing this concept in HCI, we also see potential in the transferability to other areas and contexts such as the design of public space or non-technological products.
Measuring the Impact of Augmented Prototyping Systems in Co-Design Activities
Authors: Morosi Federico , Becattini Niccolò , Caruso Giandomenico , Cascini Gaetano
Published: November 2023

In recent years, research reached a very high level of development and validation of augmented prototyping systems in support of collaborative design activities. However, there is still great scepticism in companies when it comes to integrating these new technologies within a consolidated working model. Among others, the main barrier to overcome concerns the lack of understanding of the impact of AR systems on the key objectives of a business, such as improving its efficiency and revenue. For this reason, this paper aims to quantify these indicators by observing the technological impact not on a single design session but on an entire product development process, during which the aspects related to its integration are also considered. Thanks to the collaboration with a design agency, it was possible to compare parameters such as the lead time, number of iterations, person-hours and costs between two similar and realistic projects in which only one was supported by projection-based AR technology.
MicroRNAs in Gingival Crevicular Fluid: An Observational Case-Control Study of Differential Expression in Periodontitis
Authors: Almiñana-Pastor Pedro J. , Alpiste-Illueca Francisco M. , Micó-Martinez Pablo , García-Giménez Jose Luis , García-López Eva , López-Roldán Andrés
Published: November 2023

Objectives: microRNAs (miRNAs) present in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients with chronic periodontitis may serve as biomarkers of periodontal disease. The aim of this study was to perform a miRNA-sequencing study of all miRNAs present in GCF, comparing miRNA expression level profiles between advanced chronic periodontitis (CP) patients and healthy subjects (HS). Materials and methods: GCF samples were collected from the single-rooted teeth of patients with severe CP (n = 11) and of HS (n = 12). miRNAs were isolated from GCF using an miRNeasy Serum/Plasma kit(Qiagen GmbH, Hilden, Germany). Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to determine the expression levels of miRNA candidates involved in periodontal pathogenesis. Results: Of all the sequenced miRNAs, miR-199, miR-146a, miR-30a, and miR-338 were identified as best representing the CP patient samples. The validation study identified miR-199 as the most powerful biomarker used to define periodontitis. Conclusions: Upon sequencing all known miRNAs in GCF for the first time, we uncovered several potential biomarkers to define periodontitis. Identifying miRNAS in the GCF using high-throughput approaches will clarify the role of these molecules in periodontitis and provide biomarkers with potential applications.
Beneficial Effects of Plant Oils Supplementation on Multiple Sclerosis: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical and Experimental Studies
Authors: Al-Naqeb Ghanya , Kalmpourtzidou Aliki , De Giuseppe Rachele , Cena Hellas
Published: November 2023

Multiple sclerosis disease (MS) is a 38.5 chronic neurological autoimmune disease that affects the nervous system, and its incidence is increasing globally. At present, there is no cure for this disease, and with its severity and disabling variety, it is important to search for possibilities that could help to slow its progression. It is recognized that the mechanisms of MS pathology, its development and degree of activity can be affected by dietary factors. In this review, the beneficial health effects of 10 plants oils—mainly seed oils, including pomegranate seed oil, sesame oil, acer truncatum bunge seed oil, hemp seeds oil, evening primrose seed oil, coconut oil, walnut oil, essential oil from Pterodon emarginatus seeds, flaxseed oil and olive oil—on MS are discussed. The literature data indicate that plant oils could be effective for the treatment of MS and its related symptoms primarily through reducing inflammation, promoting remyelination, immunomodulation and inhibiting oxidative stress. Plant oils may potentially reduce MS progression. Longitudinal research including a larger sample size with a longer duration is essential to confirm the findings from the selected plant oils. Moreover, new plant oils should be studied for their potential MS benefit.
Variability in the Clinical Effects of the Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids DHA and EPA in Cardiovascular Disease—Possible Causes and Future Considerations
Authors: Michaeloudes Charalambos , Christodoulides Stephanos , Christodoulou Panayiota , Kyriakou Theodora-Christina , Patrikios Ioannis , Stephanou Anastasis
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) that includes myocardial infarction and stroke, is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Atherosclerosis, the primary underlying cause of CVD, can be controlled by pharmacological and dietary interventions, including n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation. n-3 PUFA supplementation, primarily consisting of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has shown promise in reducing atherosclerosis by modulating risk factors, including triglyceride levels and vascular inflammation. n-3 PUFAs act by replacing pro-inflammatory fatty acid types in cell membranes and plasma lipids, by regulating transcription factor activity, and by inducing epigenetic changes. EPA and DHA regulate cellular function through shared and differential molecular mechanisms. Large clinical studies on n-3 PUFAs have reported conflicting findings, causing confusion among the public and health professionals. In this review, we discuss important factors leading to these inconsistencies, in the context of atherosclerosis, including clinical study design and the differential effects of EPA and DHA on cell function. We propose steps to improve clinical and basic experimental study design in order to improve supplement composition optimization. Finally, we propose that understanding the factors underlying the poor response to n-3 PUFAs, and the development of molecular biomarkers for predicting response may help towards a more personalized treatment.
An Epidemiological Update on Anisakis Nematode Larvae in Red Mullet (Mullus barbatus) from the Ligurian Sea
Authors: Schleicherová Dáša , Menconi Vasco , Moroni Barbara , Pastorino Paolo , Esposito Giuseppe , Canola Serena , Righetti Marzia , Dondo Alessandro , Prearo Marino
Published: November 2023

Red mullet (Mullus barbatus) is a commercially relevant fish species, yet epidemiological data on anisakid nematode infestation in M. barbatus are scarce. To fill this gap, we report the occurrence of Anisakis larvae in red mullet in the Ligurian Sea (western Mediterranean). This survey was performed between 2018 and 2020 on fresh specimens of M. barbatus (n = 838) from two commercial fishing areas (Imperia, n = 190; Savona, n = 648) in the Ligurian Sea. Larvae morphologically identified as Anisakis spp. (n = 544) were characterized using PCR-RFLP as Anisakis pegreffii. The overall prevalence of A. pegreffii was 24.46%; the prevalence at each sampling site was 6.32% for Imperia and 29.78% for Savona. Furthermore, 3300 larvae of Hysterothylacium spp. were detected in the visceral organs of fish coinfected with A. pegreffii, showing that coinfection with two parasitic species is not rare. This study provides a timely update on the prevalence of ascaridoid nematodes in red mullet of the Ligurian Sea, an important commercial fishing area in the Mediterranean.
Design of a Passive Silicon-on-Insulator-Based On-Chip Optical Circulating Network Supporting Mode Conversion and High Optical Isolation
Authors: Lin Yuan-Zeng , Chen Jian-Wen , Chow Chi-Wai , Yeh Chien-Hung
Published: November 2023

Over the past few decades, on-chip photonic integrated circuits based on silicon photonics (SiPh) platforms have gained widespread attention due to the fact that they offer many advantages, such as high bandwidth, low loss, compact size, low power consumption, and high integration with different photonic devices. The demand for high-speed and high-performance SiPh devices is driven by the significant increase in demand for Internet traffic. In photonic integrated circuits, controlling optical signals to make them circulate in a specific direction is a highly researched area of study. However, achieving a purely passive on-chip optical circulating network on a SiPh platform is very challenging. Therefore, we propose and demonstrate, through simulations, an on-chip optical circulator network on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform. The proposed device can also support mode conversion. The proposed on-chip optical circulating network consists of two kinds of tailor-made multi-mode interferometer (MMI) structures and waveguide crossings. Through the optical power division and mode combination capabilities of the MMI, an optical circulating network supporting high optical isolation and mode conversion is achieved. The proposed optical circulating network has a loss of 1.5 dB at each output port, while maintaining a high isolation of 35 dB in the transmission window from 1530 nm to 1570 nm.
Dehydrin CaDHN2 Enhances Drought Tolerance by Affecting Ascorbic Acid Synthesis under Drought in Peppers
Authors: Li Xin , Feng Hao , Liu Sha , Cui Junjun , Liu Jiannan , Shi Mingyu , Zhao Jielong , Wang Lihu
Published: November 2023

Peppers (Capsicum annuum L.), as a horticultural crop with one of the highest ascorbic acid contents, are negatively affected by detrimental environmental conditions both in terms of quality and productivity. In peppers, the high level of ascorbic acid is not only a nutrient substance but also plays a role in environmental stress, i.e., drought stress. When suffering from drought stress, plants accumulate dehydrins, which play important roles in the stress response. Here, we isolated an SK3-type DHN gene CaDHN2 from peppers. CaDHN2 was located in the nucleus, cytoplasm, and cell membrane. In CaDHN2-silenced peppers, which are generated by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), the survival rate is much lower, the electrolytic leakage is higher, and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is greater when compared with the control under drought stress. Moreover, when CaDHN2 (CaDHN2-OE) is overexpressed in Arabidopsis, theoverexpressing plants show enhanced drought tolerance, increased antioxidant enzyme activities, and lower ROS content. Based on yeast two-hybrid (Y2H), GST-pull down, and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) results, we found that CaDHN2 interacts with CaGGP1, the key enzyme in ascorbic acid (AsA) synthesis, in the cytoplasm. Accordingly, the level of ascorbic acid is highly reduced in CaDHN2-silenced peppers, indicating that CaDHN2 interacts with CaGGP1 to affect the synthesis of ascorbic acid under drought stress, thus improving the drought tolerance of peppers. Our research provides a basis for further study of the function of DHN genes.
Biochar Coating as a Cost-Effective Delivery Approach to Promoting Seed Quality, Rice Germination, and Seedling Establishment
Authors: Zhang Kangkang , Han Xiaomeng , Fu Yanfeng , Zhou Yu , Khan Zaid , Bi Junguo , Hu Liyong , Luo Lijun
Published: November 2023

The application of high-quality seeds ensures successful crop establishment, healthy growth, and improved production in both quantity and quality. Recently, biochar-based seed coating has been recognized as a new, effective, and environmentally friendly method to enhance seed quality, seedling uniformity, and nutrient availability. To study the impact of biochar coating on the surface mechanical properties of coated seeds, rice emergence and growth, and related physical and physiological metabolic events, laboratory experiments were performed on two water-saving and drought-resistance rice (WDR) varieties (Huhan1512 and Hanyou73) using biochar formulations with varying contents (20%–60%). The results showed that the appropriate concentration of biochar significantly improved emergence traits and seedling performance of the two rice varieties, compared to the uncoated treatment, and that the optimal percentage of biochar coating was 30% (BC30). On average, across both varieties, BC30 enhanced emergence rate (9.5%), emergence index (42.9%), shoot length (19.5%), root length (23.7%), shoot dry weight (25.1%), and root dry weight (49.8%). The improved germination characteristics and vigorous seedling growth induced by biochar coating were strongly associated with higher water uptake by seeds, increased α-amylase activity and respiration rate, and enhanced accumulation of soluble sugar and soluble protein. Moreover, the evaluation results of mechanical properties related to seed coating quality found that increasing the proportion of biochar in the coating blend decreased the integrity and compressive strength of the coated seeds and reduced the time required for coating disintegration. In conclusion, biochar coating is a cost-effective strategy for enhancing crop seed quality and seedling establishment.
Significant Benefits of Environmentally Friendly Hydrosols from Tropaeolum majus L. Seeds with Multiple Biological Activities
Authors: Vrca Ivana , Jug Blaž , Fredotović Željana , Vuko Elma , Brkan Valentina , Šestić Loriana , Juretić Lea , Dunkić Valerija , Nazlić Marija , Ramić Dina , Smole Možina Sonja , Kremer Dario
Published: November 2023

Tropaeolum majus L. is a traditional medicinal plant with a wide range of biological activities due to the degradation products of the glucosinolate glucotropaeolin. Therefore, the goals of this study were to identify volatiles using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis (GC-MS) of the hydrosols (HYs) isolated using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and microwave hydrodiffusion and gravity (MHG). Cytotoxic activity was tested against a cervical cancer cell line (HeLa), human colon cancer cell line (HCT116), human osteosarcoma cell line (U2OS), and healthy cell line (RPE1). The effect on wound healing was investigated using human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT), while the antibacterial activity of the HYs was tested against growth and adhesion to a polystyrene surface of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Antiphytoviral activity against tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) was determined. The GC-MS analysis showed that the two main compounds in the HYs of T. majus are benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) and benzyl cyanide (BCN) using the MAE (62.29% BITC and 15.02% BCN) and MHG (17.89% BITC and 65.33% BCN) extraction techniques. The HYs obtained using MAE showed better cytotoxic activity against the tested cancer cell lines (IC50 value of 472.61–637.07 µg/mL) compared to the HYs obtained using MHG (IC50 value of 719.01–1307.03 μg/mL). Both concentrations (5 and 20 µg/mL) of T. majus HYs using MAE showed a mild but statistically non-significant effect in promoting gap closure compared with untreated cells, whereas the T. majus HY isolated using MHG at a concentration of 15 µg/mL showed a statistically significant negative effect on wound healing. The test showed that the MIC concentration was above 0.5 mg/mL for the HY isolated using MAE, and 2 mg/mL for the HY isolated using MHG. The HY isolated using MHG reduced the adhesion of E. coli at a concentration of 2 mg/mL, while it also reduced the adhesion of S. aureus at a concentration of 1 mg/mL. Both hydrosols showed excellent antiphytoviral activity against TMV, achieving100% inhibition of local lesions on the leaves of infected plants, which is the first time such a result was obtained with a hydrosol treatment. Due to the antiphytoviral activity results, hydrosols of T. majus have a promising future for use in agricultural production.
Modulating Polymer Ultrathin Film Crystalline Fraction and Orientation with Nanoscale Curvature
Authors: Ruffino Roberta , Jankowski Maciej , Konovalov Oleg , Punzo Francesco , Tuccitto Nunzio , Li-Destri Giovanni
Published: November 2023

We investigated the effect of nanoscale curvature on the structure of thermally equilibrated poly-3-hexylthiophene (P3HT) ultrathin films. The curvature-induced effects were investigated with synchrotron grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Our results demonstrate that nanoscale curvature reduces the polymer crystalline fraction and the crystal length. The first effect is strongest for the lowest curvature and results in a decrease in the out-of-plane thickness of the polymer crystals. On the other hand, the crystal in-plane length decreases with the increase in substrate curvature. Finally, the semi-quantitative analysis of crystal anisotropy shows a marked dependence on the substrate curvature characterized by a minimum at curvatures between 0.00851 nm−1 and 0.0140 nm−1. The results are discussed in terms of a curvature-dependent polymer fraction, which fills the interstices between neighboring particles and cannot crystallize due to extreme space confinement. This fraction, whose thickness is highest at the lowest curvatures, inhibits the crystal nucleation and the out-of-plane crystal growth. Moreover, because of the adhesion to the curved portion of the substrates, crystals adopt a random orientation. By increasing the substrate curvature, the amorphous fraction is reduced, leading to polymer films with higher crystallinity. Finally, when the thickness of the film exceeds the particle diameter, the curvature no longer affects the crystal orientation, which, similarly to the flat case, is predominantly edge on.
Green Hydrogels Loaded with Extracts from Solanaceae for the Controlled Disinfection of Agricultural Soils
Authors: Clemente Ilaria , Baglioni Michele , Bonechi Claudia , Bisozzi Flavia , Rossi Claudio , Tamasi Gabriella
Published: November 2023

The UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development established the goal of cutting the use of pesticides in the EU by 50% by 2030. However, a ban on pesticides could seriously affect the productivity of agriculture, resulting in severe issues due to global hunger and food deficiency. Controlled release (CR) of bioactive chemicals could play a valid alternative in this context. To this aim, two biodegradable polymers, namely sodium alginate (AL) and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), were employed to obtain crosslinked hydrogel beads for the encapsulation and CR of glycoalkaloids extracted from tomato and potato leaves to be used as biocompatible disinfectants for agricultural soils. The physico-chemical characterization of the controlled-release systems was carried out by means of Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetry (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) (FWI > 80%) and drying kinetics. The plant extracts and the encapsulation efficiency (~84%) were, respectively, characterized and evaluated by High-performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Finally, preliminary microbiological tests were conducted to test the efficacy of the most promising systems as biocidal formulations both in the lab and on a model soil, and interesting results were obtained in the reduction of bacterial and fungal load, which could lead to sustainable perspectives in the field.
Obtention and Study of Polyurethane-Based Active Packaging with Curcumin and/or Chitosan Additives for Fruits and Vegetables—Part I: Analysis of Morphological, Mechanical, Barrier, and Migration Properties
Authors: Ruiz David , Uscátegui Yomaira L. , Diaz Luis , Arrieta-Pérez Rodinson R. , Gómez-Tejedor José A. , Valero Manuel F.
Published: November 2023

Several polyurethane-formulated films with curcumin and/or chitosan additives for food packaging have been previously obtained. The study examines the effect of the additives on the film’s morphological, mechanical, barrier, and migration properties. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), water contact angle, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TGA and DTGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), oxygen transmission rate (OTR), water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), and the overall and specific migration tests were conducted. The results show that the presence of chitosan significantly increased the overall migration and mechanical properties, such as the elongation at break, tensile strength, and Young’s modulus of most polyurethane formulations, while curcumin had a minor influence on the mechanical performance. Based on the results, formulations with curcumin but without chitosan are suitable for food packaging.
Selective Sorption of Heavy Metals by Renewable Polysaccharides
Authors: Levy-Ontman Oshrat , Yanay Chanan , Alfi Yaron , Paz-Tal Ofra , Wolfson Adi
Published: November 2023

Renewable and biodegradable polysaccharides have attracted interest for their wide applicability, among them their use as sorbents for heavy metal ions. Their high sorption capacity is due mainly to the acidic groups that populate the polysaccharide backbone, for example, carboxylic groups in alginate and sulfate ester groups in the iota and lambda carrageenans. In this study, these three polysaccharides were employed, alone or in different mixtures, to recover different heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. All three polysaccharides were capable of adsorbing Eu3+, Sm3+, Er3+, or UO22+ and their mixtures, findings that were also confirmed using XPS, TGA, and FTIR analyses. In addition, the highest sorption yields of all the metal ions were obtained using alginate, alone or in mixtures. While the alginate with carboxylic and hydroxyl groups adsorbed different ions with the same selectivity, carrageenans with sulfate ester and hydroxyl groups exhibited higher adsorption selectivity for lanthanides than for uranyl, indicating that the activity of the sulfate ester groups toward trivalent and smaller ions was higher.
Self-Assembly of Symmetric Copolymers in Slits with Inert and Attractive Walls
Authors: Blovský Tomáš , Šindelka Karel , Limpouchová Zuzana , Procházka Karel
Published: November 2023

Although the behavior of the confined semi-dilute solutions of self-assembling copolymers represents an important topic of basic and applied research, it has eluded the interest of scientists. Extensive series of dissipative particle dynamics simulations have been performed on semi-dilute solutions of A5B5 chains in a selective solvent for A in slits using a DL-MESO simulation package. Simulations of corresponding bulk systems were performed for comparison. This study shows that the associates in the semi-dilute bulk solutions are partly structurally organized. Mild steric constraints in slits with non-attractive walls hardly affect the size of the associates, but they promote their structural arrangement in layers parallel to the slit walls. Attractive walls noticeably affect the association process. In slits with mildly attractive walls, the adsorption competes with the association process. At elevated concentrations, the associates start to form in wide slits when the walls are sparsely covered by separated associates, and the association process prevents the full coverage of the surface. In slits with strongly attractive walls, adsorption is the dominant behavior. The associates form in wide slits at elevated concentrations only after the walls are completely and continuously covered by the adsorbed chains.
A Novel Hybrid Deep Learning Model for Forecasting Ultra-Short-Term Time Series Wind Speeds for Wind Turbines
Authors: Yang Jianzan , Pang Feng , Xiang Huawei , Li Dacheng , Gu Bo
Published: November 2023

Accurate forecasting of ultra-short-term time series wind speeds (UTSWS) is important for improving the efficiency and safe and stable operation of wind turbines. To address this issue, this study proposes a VMD-AOA-GRU based method for UTSWS forecasting. The proposed method utilizes variational mode decomposition (VMD) to decompose the wind speed data into temporal mode components with different frequencies and effectively extract high-frequency wind speed features. The arithmetic optimization algorithm (AOA) is then employed to optimize the hyperparameters of the model of the gated recurrent unit (GRU), including the number of hidden neurons, training epochs, learning rate, learning rate decay period, and training data temporal length, thereby constructing a high-precision AOA-GRU forecasting model. The AOA-GRU forecasting model is trained and tested using different frequency temporal mode components obtained from the VMD, which achieves multi-step accurate forecasting of the UTSWS. The forecasting results of the GRU, VMD-GRU, VMD-AOA-GRU, LSTM, VMD-LSTM, PSO-ELM, VMD-PSO-ELM, PSO-BP, VMD-PSO-BP, PSO-LSSVM, VMD-PSO-LSSVM, ARIMA, and VMD-ARIMA are compared and analyzed. The calculation results show that the VMD algorithm can accurately mine the high-frequency components of the time series wind speed, which can effectively improve the forecasting accuracy of the forecasting model. In addition, optimizing the hyperparameters of the GRU model using the AOA can further improve the forecasting accuracy of the GRU model.
Infinite Horizon H2/H∞ Control for Discrete-Time Mean-Field Stochastic Systems
Authors: Ma Chaoyue , Hou Ting
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we deal with the H2/H∞ control problem in the infinite horizon for discrete-time mean-field stochastic systems with (x,u,v)-dependent noise. First of all, a stochastic-bounded real lemma, which is the core of H∞ analysis, is derived. Secondly, a sufficient condition in terms of the solution of coupled difference Riccati equations (CDREs) is obtained for solving the H2/H∞ control problem above. In addition, an iterative algorithm for solving CDREs is proposed and a numerical example is given for verification of the feasibility of the developed results.
Large-Eddy Simulation of Flow Separation Control in Low-Speed Diffuser Cascade with Splitter Blades
Authors: Liang Zhong , Wang Jun , Jiang Boyan , Zhou Hao , Yang Weigang , Ling Jieda
Published: November 2023

The passive flow control technology of using splitter blades in low-speed diffuser cascade was investigated in this study. Based on the Reynolds average Navier-Stokes calculations, the arrangement parameters of the splitter blades were studied in detail to determine the optimal parameters. The large-eddy simulation was performed on the base case and the optimized splitter blade case to obtain the transient vortex structures and unsteady flow characteristics of the cascade. The results show that the aerodynamic performance of the cascade was susceptible to the position of the splitter blades. The optimal position of the splitter blades was located in the middle of the main blades near the leading edge. When the cascade was arranged with optimized splitter blades, the static pressure coefficient was improved and the stall occurrence was delayed. The scale and intensity of the separation vortices generated on the suction surface of the main blade decreased. In addition, the separation vortices of the main blade and the splitter blade interacted and rapidly decomposed into small-scale vortices downstream of the cascade, reducing the flow loss. The stability of the cascade was enhanced.
Gastronomic Sustainable Tourism and Social Change in World Heritage Sites. The Enhancement of the Local Agroecological Products in the Chinampas of Xochimilco (Mexico City)
Authors: Medina Francesc-Xavier , Vázquez-Medina José A. , Covarrubias Marco , Jiménez-Serna Alaíde
Published: November 2023

In the Xochimilco area, within the urban perimeter of Mexico City, a unique ancestral agri-food production system persists: the chinampa system, also called chinampería. The chinampa agri-food production is a World Heritage inscribed by UNESCO and contributes to the sustainability of both the peri-urban wetland and the city. In addition, the Xochimilco area is also one of the most important domestic tourist destinations in Mexico City. The current situation of Xochimilco struggles between two core economic activities: agriculture and tourism. Although both activities contribute significantly to the development of the area, both have been noted as systematically damaging the local environment. However, emerging agriculture practices through agroecological production seem to have a positive impact in terms of better tourism praxis where the gastronomy of chinampero product plays a pivotal role. In this article, we will analyze the role of tourism in the area as a massive distorting and contaminant activity, but also from the positive perception and the possibilities of gastronomic tourism as a new responsible modality of tourism linked to sustainability and the mise en valeur of the chinampa agroecological products.
A New Socio-Hydrology System Based on System Dynamics and a SWAT-MODFLOW Coupling Model for Solving Water Resource Management in Nanchang City, China
Authors: Deng Zhihui , Ma Qingshan , Zhang Jia , Feng Qingda , Niu Zhaoxuan , Zhu Guilin , Jin Xianpeng , Chen Meijing , Chen Honghan
Published: November 2023

To address the issue of seasonal water resource shortages in Nanchang City, a multi-system coupling socio-hydrology simulation method was proposed. This approach involves dynamically integrating a centralized socio-economic model with a distributed surface water groundwater numerical model to explore the intricate relationships between the socio-economic system, the surface water–groundwater integrated system, and the outcomes related to seasonal water resource shortages. Taking Nanchang City as an example, this study conducted research on the water resource supply and demand balance, as well as the groundwater emergency supply, using the multi-system coupling model. Three scenarios were established: status quo, developing, and water-saving. The results show that with the increasing total water demand of social and economic development, the severity of the water resource shortage will be most pronounced in 2030. The minimum water resources supply and demand ratios for the status quo, developing, and water-saving scenarios are projected to be 0.68, 0.52, and 0.77, respectively. To meet residents’ water needs during drought conditions, emergency groundwater supply efforts are investigated. According to the simulation results, groundwater emergency supply would increase the total population by 24.0 thousand, 49.4 thousand, and 11.2 thousand people, respectively, in the status quo, developing, and water-saving scenarios. In the water-saving scenario, the Youkou and Xiebu water sources can serve as suitable emergency water sources. In the status quo scenario, the Youkou water source is the most viable emergency water source. However, in the developing scenario, relying solely on any single water source for emergency supply could have an irreversible impact on the aquifer. Therefore, considering the simultaneous use of multiple water sources is recommended, as it can fulfill water demands while ensuring the sustainable utilization of groundwater resources.
Strategic Decision-Making in Sustainable Water Management Using Demand Analysis and the Water Evaluation and Planning Model
Authors: Bessedik Madani , Abdelbaki Chérifa , Tiar Sidi Mohamed , Badraoui Abderrahim , Megnounif Abdesselam , Goosen Mattheus , Mourad Khaldoon A. , Baig Mirza Barjees , Alataway Abed
Published: November 2023

Water infrastructure management relies on information, communication strategies, and affordable technologies. This paper used demand analysis and modeling to guide strategic decision-making in sustainable water management for the urban cluster in Tlemcen, Algeria. To achieve this, the water supply and demand of the study area were assessed over the past three decades. The Water Evaluation and Planning (WEAP) system was employed considering different future scenarios to help decision-makers consider the best choices for sustainable urban water resources management. The results showed that the average water production and distribution efficiency was only 46% due to the high network loss. Therefore, urgent action should be considered to increase the efficiency of the distribution network. Moreover, the outcome showed severe unmet demand in 2050, which can be managed by improving the water networks, increasing conventional water production, and reducing personal water consumption. In cooperation with key stakeholders, new scenarios can be analyzed to develop efficient water management policies and to implement sustainable water allocation approaches.
Expediting Time to Market: Evaluating the Effects of Change Control Board Performance in Emerging Markets
Authors: Irfan Sanaullah , Ali Jamshid , Hidayat-ur-Rehman Imdadullah , Khwaja Muddasar Ghani , Rosak-Szyrocka Joanna , Kovacs Attila
Published: November 2023

This study aims to assess how the performance of Change Control Boards (CCBs) influences the relationship between requirements uncertainty and the Time to Market (TTM) of software projects in emerging markets. We collected data through a structured questionnaire, conducting surveys in project-based IT organizations across various cities in Pakistan. This research adopts a quantitative approach, employing software project houses as the unit of analysis. We selected 38 software projects out of 50 using a multi-stage sampling method and analyzed the data using Smart PLS 4.0 and SPSS 23. The results reveal that requirements uncertainty has a significant impact on Time to Market (TTM) conditions. Our study concludes that the presence and effective performance of CCBs can substantially reduce TTM. Additionally, higher CCB performance can expedite TTM, particularly when requirements lack precision initially. The study underscores the profound influence of requirements uncertainty on TTM in software projects. It provides organizations with insights into the critical role of CCBs, the consequences of uncontrolled changes in the absence or ineffectiveness of CCBs, and how requirements uncertainty affects software project development and timelines. This research contributes to software management and product development processes by highlighting the importance of requirement engineering during the planning phase to address uncertainty issues and enhance CCB performance.
Water Impacts and Effluent Quality Regulations of Canadian Mining
Authors: Atakhanova Zauresh
Published: November 2023

Energy transition relies on the scaling up of mineral production and may lead to increased pressure on water resources due to the intensity of water use in mining. The status of Canada as a major mineral producer and a country with effective environmental regulations prompted our study of the water impacts of Canadian mining. In 2002, the Canadian government introduced effluent quality regulations that targeted metal mining companies. By analyzing regional and sectoral data, we find that such regulations were important for mitigating both the water quality and water quantity impacts of metal mining. Despite increasing output, metal mining reduced its contribution to total mining withdrawals and discharge from 85% in the pre-regulation period to 62–65% in the post-regulation period. In the absence of such regulations, non-metallic mineral mining and, in particular, coal mining, increased their pressure on water resources. Finally, we find that since 2002, over 90% of regulated operations have met effluent quality standards. However, we document increased flows of discharge to mine tailings, a development which requires further analysis.
Hepatitis C Virus Infection in the Elderly in the Era of Direct-Acting Antivirals: Evidence from Clinical Trials and Real Life
Authors: Pugliese Nicola , Polverini Davide , Arcari Ivan , De Nicola Stella , Colapietro Francesca , Masetti Chiara , Ormas Monica , Ceriani Roberto , Lleo Ana , Aghemo Alessio
Published: November 2023

The introduction of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) into clinical practice has revolutionized the therapeutic approach to patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. According to the most recent guidelines, the first line of treatment for HCV infection involves the use of one of three pan-genotypic DAA combinations, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL), glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB), and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir (SOF/VEL/VOX). These drugs have been shown to be effective and safe in numerous clinical trials and real-world studies, but special populations have been neglected. Among the special populations to be treated are elderly patients, whose numbers are increasing in clinical practice. The management of these patients can be challenging, in particular due to multiple comorbidities, polypharmacotherapy, and potential drug–drug interactions. This narrative review aims to summarize the current scientific evidence on the efficacy and safety of DAAs in the elderly population, both in clinical trials and in real-life settings. Although there is still a paucity of real-world data and no clinical trials have yet been conducted in the population aged ≥ 75 years old, some considerations about the efficacy and safety of DAAs in the elderly can be made based on the results of these studies. The pan-genotypic associations of DAAs appear to be as efficacious and safe in the elderly population as in the general population; this is both in terms of similar sustained virologic response (SVR) rates and similar frequencies of adverse events (AEs). However, further studies specifically involving this patient population would be necessary to confirm this evidence.
Human Metapneumovirus-Induced Host microRNA Expression Impairs the Interferon Response in Macrophages and Epithelial Cells
Authors: Martínez-Espinoza Iván , Bungwon Anang D. , Guerrero-Plata Antonieta
Published: November 2023

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a nonsegmented, single-stranded negative RNA virus and a member of the Pneumoviridae family. During HMPV infection, macrophages play a critical role in defending the respiratory epithelium by secreting large amounts of type I interferon (IFN). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding, single-stranded RNAs that play an essential role in regulating gene expression during normal cellular homeostasis and disease by binding to specific mRNAs, thereby regulating at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels with a direct impact on the immune response and other cellular processes. However, the role of miRNAs in macrophages and respiratory viral infections remains largely unknown. Here, we characterized the susceptibility of THP-1-derived macrophages to HMPV infection and the effect of hsa-miR-4634 on these cells. Transfection of an miRNA mimic and inhibitor demonstrated that hsa-miR-4634 regulates the IFN response in HMPV-infected macrophages, suggesting that HMPV induces the expression of the miRNA as a subversion mechanism of the antiviral response. This effect was not limited to macrophages, as a similar effect was also observed in epithelial cells. Overall, our results demonstrate that hsa-miR-4634 is an important factor in regulating the IFN response in macrophages and epithelial cells during HMPV infection.
Indication of West Nile Virus (WNV) Lineage 2 Overwintering among Wild Birds in the Regions of Peloponnese and Western Greece
Authors: Athanasakopoulou Zoi , Sofia Marina , Skampardonis Vassilis , Giannakopoulos Alexios , Birtsas Periklis , Tsolakos Konstantinos , Spyrou Vassiliki , Chatzopoulos Dimitris C. , Satra Maria , Diamantopoulos Vassilis , Mpellou Spyridoula , Galamatis Dimitrios , G. Papatsiros Vasileios , Billinis Charalambos
Published: November 2023

West Nile virus (WNV), a zoonotic mosquito-borne virus, has recently caused human outbreaks in Europe, including Greece. Its transmission cycle in nature includes wild birds as amplifying hosts and ornithophilic mosquito vectors. The aim of this study was to assess WNV circulation among wild birds from two regions of Greece, Peloponnese and Western Greece, during 2022. To this end, a total of 511 birds belonging to 37 different species were sampled and molecularly screened. WNV RNA was detected from February to November in a total of 71 wild birds of nine species originating from both investigated regions. The first eight positive samples were sequenced on a part of NS3 and, according to the phylogenetic analysis, they belonged to evolutionary lineage 2 and presented similarity to previous outbreak-causing Greek strains (Argolis 2017, Macedonia 2010 and 2012). It was more likely to identify a PCR positive bird as the population density and the distance from water sources decreased. The present report provides evidence of WNV occurrence in both Peloponnese and Western Greece during 2022 and underlines its possible overwintering, highlighting the need for avian species surveillance to be conducted annually and throughout the year. Magpies are proposed as sentinels for WNV monitoring.
Feasibility Study of Using Excess Sludge Fermentation Broth as a Co-Metabolic Carbon Source for 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol Degradation
Authors: Wang Jianguang , Sun Zhirong , Li Jun
Published: November 2023

Excess sludge fermentation is a commonly employed method for carbon sources in wastewater treatment plants, but its use as a carbon source for chlorophenol removal has been relatively underexplored. In this study, a laboratory-scale sludge fermentation SBR (FSBR) was integrated with a 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (2,4,6-TCP) degradation SBR (DSBR), resulting in a stable removal of 2,4,6-TCP without the need for external carbon sources. In this coupled system, the concentrations of volatile fatty acids in FSBR remained constant, with acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, and valeric acid concentrations reaching 322.04 mg COD/L, 225.98 mg COD/L, 274.76 mg COD/L, and 149.58 mg COD/L, respectively, and the acid production efficiency increased to 88.40%. Throughout the 110-day operational period, the activated sludge concentration in the DSBR was consistently maintained at 3021 ± 110 mg/L, and the sludge SVI remained stable at 70 mL/g. The maximum amount of 2,4,6-TCP removed reached 240.13 mg/L within a 12 h operating cycle. The use of excess sludge fermentation can completely replace commercial carbon sources for 2,4,6-TCP removal, leading to cost savings in chlorophenol treatment and broadening the applicability of this technology.
Hâkim el-Cüşemî’nin et-Tehzîb fi’t-Tefsîr Adlı Tefsirinde Mu‘tezilî Görüşlerin Etkisi
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Faruk
Published: November 2023

Bu makalede el-Cüşemî’nin et-Tehzîb fi’t-tefsîr adlı tefsirinde Mu‘tezilî görüşlerin etkisi araştırma konusu yapılmıştır. Sıffîn (37/657) savaşı sonrasında “hakem olayı”nı takip eden süreçte Müslümanlar arasında görüş ayrılıkları sebebiyle birçok mezhep ortaya çıkmıştır. Her mezhep kendi görüşünün doğruluğunu ispatlayabilmek gayesiyle Kur’ân âyetlerine müracaat etmiştir. Fakat mezhep mensubu müfessirlerin bir kısmı mezhebinin prensipleri istikametinde âyetleri tevil cihetine gitmiştir. Mu‘tezile’ye mensup müfessirler de bu mezhebin usûlü hamse diye meşhur beş esası doğrultusunda tefsir yazmışlardır. el-Cüşemî’nin tefsiri de Mu‘tezilî görüşlerin yoğun olarak işlendiği bir tefsirdir. Araştırmamız söz konusu tefsirdeki sem‘iyyât bahisleri ile sınırlandırılmıştır. Araştırmamızın amacı sem‘iyyât kapsamına giren itikâdî meselelere dair el-Cüşemî’nin görüşlerini tespit etmek, Mu‘tezile’nin aynı meselelere ilişkin görüşleri arasındaki benzerlik ve farklılıkları belirlemektir. Bu araştırmada literatür taraması yöntemi kullanılarak el-Cüşemî’nin tefsiri başta olmak üzere kelâmî-itikâdî konularda kaleme alınmış kaynaklar incelenmiştir. Araştırma neticesinde el-Cüşemî’nin tefsirinde sem‘iyyât kapsamına giren meseleler bağlamında Mu‘tezile’nin prensiplerini benimsediği ve ehl-i sünnet ekolleriyle genellikle görüş ayrılığı içerisinde olduğu sonucuna varılmıştır.
Gestión escolar de los directivos en instituciones educativas: Revisión sistemática
Authors: Jihuallanca Ruelas Ines
Published: November 2023

La gestión escolar en Perú enfrenta desafíos significativos, incluyendo limitaciones en recursos financieros, desigualdades en el acceso educativo, falta de formación docente, problemas de infraestructura, retención y motivación del personal educativo, así como dificultades en la implementación de tecnología educativa. Por ello, el objetivo de este estudio es analizar influencia de la gestión escolar de los directivos dentro de las instituciones educativas. El análisis se llevó mediante una revisión sistemática apoyada en la declaración PRISMA; las fuentes seleccionada fueron de Redalyc, Scielo, Scopus, Dialnet, Researchgate. Los resultados de búsqueda arrojaron 153 artículos, acerca de gestión escolar; bajos los criterios de inclusión, artículos publicados con 10 años de antigüedad, relevancia de la información, fuentes confiables, publicaciones en español, inglés, portugués; criterios de exclusión duplicidad de publicaciones, fuentes ajenas al tema, obteniendo finalmente 46 artículos según ecuación de búsqueda. Se concluye que la mejora de la gestión escolar no solo contribuirá a superar las problemáticas existentes, sino que también impulsará un ambiente educativo más eficiente, equitativo y propicio para el aprendizaje y el desarrollo de los estudiantes en Perú.