bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting Chinese Electricity Consumption Based on Grey Seasonal Model with New Information Priority
Authors: Zhou Weijie , Tao Huihui , Chang Jiaxin , Jiang Huimin , Chen Li
Published: February 2023

The total electricity consumption in China includes almost all the electricity consumption from all fields, which can reflect the overall situation of China’s electricity consumption, and it is of great significance to forecast it. This paper develops a novel grey Holt-Winters model based on the new information priority cycle accumulation operator, known as the NCGHW model for short, in order to effectively forecast the total electricity consumption in China. First of all, this paper proposes the new information priority cycle accumulation operator to mine the internal law of data while maintaining periodicity in the accumulated data. Then, based on the one-order accumulation sequence generated by the new operator, the framework of the Holt-Winters model is used to build a new model. Finally, according to the characteristics of the data itself, the LBFGS algorithm is used to find the most suitable parameters for the model. In order to model and analyze the fine-grained measurement of the total electricity consumption in China, we study the monthly and quarterly data, respectively. The new model and the contrast models are applied to the two sequences for simulation and prediction. The performance of the model is discussed through relevant evaluation criteria. The results show that the new model has sufficient capacity to forecast the monthly and quarterly total electricity consumption. It is the best choice for the total electricity consumption in China.
How Organizational Resources and Managerial Features Affect Business Performance: An Analysis in the Greek Wine Industry
Authors: Crescimanno Maria , Mirabella Claudio , Borsellino Valeria , Schimmenti Emanuele , Vrontis Demetris , Tinervia Salvatore , Galati Antonino
Published: February 2023

Despite the growing interest of the wine industry in quality and environmental certifications and the influence of these standards on positioning in international markets, scholarly research has paid proportionally limited attention to the link between winery export intensity and the adoption of internationally recognized standards. This study aims to analyze which factors make an organizational model performant, and to verify the impact of the adoption of third-party certifications on the export performance by using the resource-based view (RBV) theory as a theoretical lens. Findings show that younger wineries are more oriented towards the adoption of voluntary quality and environmental certifications, and they achieve the best economic performance, expressed in terms of overall turnover on the market. On the contrary, the better export performance is achieved by the largest group of wineries, which make the greatest effort in promotion and advertising activities and sell their products through intermediaries, while showing a low adoption of certifications. Our results have a number of theoretical and practical implications.
Establishing Performance Criteria for Evaluating Pedestrian Environments
Authors: Eboli Laura , Forciniti Carmen , Mazzulla Gabriella , Bellizzi Maria Grazia
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Promoting pedestrian mobility represents a strategy for achieving a sustainable transportation system, where problems such as traffic congestion, air and noise pollution are minimized. For this aim, it becomes fundamental to identify pedestrian environments that can facilitate and encourage making trips by walking. The objective of this paper is to provide a practical methodology that can assist the analyst in identifying the best alternative among some pedestrian paths with different characteristics. (2) Methods: To this aim, subjective, objective and mixed indicators were proposed to measure the performance criteria adopted for evaluating the alternatives. A multi-criteria analysis was applied as a tool of evaluation. (3) Results: The findings of the work suggest that pedestrians seem to appreciate the tree-lined paths and prefer to keep bike lines separated from pedestrian paths. Number of crosswalks is relevant in the evaluation of pedestrian paths, especially when there are shops along the path. Aspects related to the conditions of the pavement and to comfort and environment are less relevant. (4) Conclusions: The use of both subjective and objective indicators allows consideration of some different aspects and discovery of more interesting findings. Management strategies could be oriented to make the paths more delightful and serviceable for the users.
Investigation of Predictive Regulation Strategy of Secondary Loop in District Heating Systems
Authors: Li Zhongbo , Luo Zheng , Zhang Ning , Lin Xiaojie , Huang Wei , Feng Encheng , Zhong Wei
Published: February 2023

The urban energy system is greatly dependent on the District Heating System (DHS). However, many difficulties with regulation and control are caused by its large scale and numerous coupling variables. Additionally, reliance on manual experience means it can be challenging to guarantee heating comfort and effectiveness in the regulation of DHS. This paper proposes a data-driven temperature response prediction model to predict secondary loop supply temperature based on the heating substation’s historical operating status, valve opening degree, weather conditions, etc. Further, the XGBoost model was established in this article with different input and prediction steps. The results show that the XGBoost model with 72 input steps and 24 prediction steps has better performance. As an application example, the model was applied to an urban central heating system. Based on this data-driven model, different operation strategies on primary loop valve opening are compared for temperature response analysis. Operators can check the temperature responses of different valve control strategies before being applied. This paper guides the regulation behavior of the DHS, which is of great significance for the operation of the actual DHS.
Vetiver Grass (Chrysopogon zizanoides L.): A Hyper-Accumulator Crop for Bioremediation of Unconventional Water
Authors: Dorafshan Mohammad Mahdi , Abedi-Koupai Jahangir , Eslamian Saeid , Amiri Mohammad Javad
Published: February 2023

The increase of the global population and the requirement of food production and agricultural development, combined with a lack of water resources, have led to human attention being drawn to unconventional water sources, including saline water and wastewater. Most unconventional water treatment methods are not cost-effective; however, researchers have become interested in the phytoremediation method due to its cost-efficient and eco-friendly removal of many pollutants in recent years. Research showed that due to its unique characteristics, vetiver grass can be useful in phytoremediation. In the current review, research on vetiver-based phytoremediation of unconventional water, especially wastewater, was reviewed. The vetiver-reduced contaminants in wastewater can be related to the interactions between (1) the root-released oxygen into the rhizosphere; (2) the root-based uptake of nutrients from the wastewater; (3) the existence of an appropriate surface area for the attached microbial growth; as well as (4) the root-exuded organic carbon.
A K-Means Clustering and the Prim’s Minimum Spanning Tree-Based Optimal Picking-List Consolidation and Assignment Methodology for Achieving the Sustainable Warehouse Operations
Authors: Chiang Tzu-An , Che Zhen-Hua , Hung Chao-Wei
Published: February 2023

Rapid industrialization has caused the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere to increase rapidly, leading to drastic global climate changes and ecological degradation. To establish a sustainable supply chain for consumer electronic products, this study focuses on warehouse operations and develops a K-means clustering and Prim’s minimum spanning tree-based optimal picking-list consolidation and assignment methodology. Compact camera modules are used to demonstrate and verify the effectiveness of this methodology. This methodology can be divided into two parts. First, the K-means clustering method is applied to conduct a picking-list consolidation analysis to create an optimal picking-list consolidation strategy for sustainable warehouse operations. Second, the most similar picking lists in each cluster are connected using Prim’s minimum spanning tree algorithm to generate the connected graph with the minimum spanning tree so as to establish a picking-list assignment strategy for sustainable warehouse operations. In this case study, this to-be model substantially reduced the traveling distance of the electric order-picking trucks within a warehouse and increased the picking efficiency to diminish the carbon emissions toward a sustainable supply chain.
Recycling Mussel Shells as Secondary Sources in Green Construction Materials: A Preliminary Assessment
Authors: Leone Rosanna , Calà Adriana , Capela Marinélia N. , Colajanni Simona , Campisi Tiziana , Saeli Manfredi
Published: February 2023

This paper reports the development of novel green bio-composite mortars obtained by reusing mussel shells, a waste from the fish canning industry, as recycled aggregate, used for the first time in total substitution to the traditional sand. It suggests that this is a valid alternative to their usual disposal in landfills because the organic matter is potentially dangerous to humans and the environment. Different waste-based cementitious mixes were tested and compared to a traditional OPC mortar. The manufacturing process was performed at ambient conditions (20 °C, 65% RH) with highly sustainable results and consisted of simple operative steps reproducible in a real building site. The engineering performance was investigated to preliminarily assess the novel material potentials in construction. The main results showed that recycling mussel shells as aggregate while considerably decreasing the mechanical resistance (up to 60% in bending and 50% in compression), mixes could still find proper building applications (either structural, light partition, and plastering) according to the relevant standards. Moreover, the bulk density resulted up to 30% lower and the energy behavior was improved up to 40%, making the developed mortars highly suitable for promising energy-saving uses. Finally, the waste recycling about halves the materials cost and could also grant further financial saving for the fish industry. To conclude, the large amount of reused bio-waste not only represents a valid alternative to their usual disposal in landfills, but also makes the considered mortars suitable for building applications and promising candidates for the Minimum Environmental Criteria certification, in light of the EU Green Transition, and in line with the principles of the circular economy.
Medicine Students’ Opinions Post-COVID-19 Regarding Online Learning in Association with Their Preferences as Internet Consumers
Authors: Dascalu Cristina Gena , Antohe Magda Ecaterina , Topoliceanu Claudiu , Purcarea Victor Lorin
Published: February 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted e-learning as a critical component that ensured the continuity of students’ education processes. In this regard, many research groups aim to provide new scientific data about the efficiency and benefits of e-learning for healthcare students. Our study aims to evaluate the attraction of e-learning among medical and dental Romanian students, in association with their preferences as internet and computer consumers. The study enrolled 551 students in medicine from four Romanian Universities of Medicine and Pharmacy, located in major cities (Iași—64.6%, Craiova—19.6%, Timișoara—14.5% and Cluj Napoca—1.3%), mostly females (76.2%), from the first and second years of study (63.7%) or the fourth to sixth years of study (23.3%), aged 18–20 years (53.9%). To investigate their opinions about the efficiency of e-learning, we used an anonymous questionnaire with 31 items regarding advantages (17 items) and possible drawbacks (14 items). The students in medicine had favourable opinions about online learning because these tools are more comfortable (75.2%) and more flexible (60.1%). The main reasons for disagreement were the lack of direct communication and human interaction with teachers (53.2%), limitations due to the particularities of some disciplines that cannot be easily transferred to the online environment (46.4%), and the lack of proper motivation (32.5%). Older students, who liked to use multimedia resources in the learning process and used the internet mainly for information purposes or domestic facilities, had the highest scores for favourable opinions about online learning. The younger students, who did not prefer using multimedia resources in the learning process, also had the highest scores for disagreement regarding online learning. There were no statistically significant differences between genders.
Numerical Investigation of the Dynamic Response of a Sand Cushion with Multiple Rockfall Impacts
Authors: Zhang Yu , Feng Jierui , Du Longhuan , Zhao Peng , Peng Jiao , Yang Chen , Fan Hua , Li Liangpu
Published: February 2023

A shed cave structure with a sand cushion is often used as a protective structure for rockfall disasters. Because of the randomness and unpredictability of rockfall disasters, the cushions of shed caves often suffer multiple impacts from rockfalls. Aiming at the problem of multiple impacts of rockfall, this paper uses the three-dimensional discrete element method to study the dynamic response of multiple rockfall impacts on sand cushions from different heights. Before conducting large-scale simulation studies, the input parameters in the numerical model are verified with data from laboratory experiments. Analyzing the simulation results shows that when the same point is impacted multiple times, the maximum impact force and the maximum penetration depth will increase with the number of impacts. According to the numerical results, a calculation formula of the maximum impact force that considers the number of impacts is fitted. At the same time, considering the impact response when the rockfall impacts different positions multiple times, the distance range that the subsequent impact is not affected by the previous impact is given. The significance of studying the multiple impacts of rockfalls is shown by a numerical study of rockfalls impacting a sand cushion multiple times from different heights, and it provides a reference for the design of rockfall disaster-protection structures in practical engineering.
Low-Carbon Technology Innovation Decision Making of Manufacturing Companies in the Industrial Internet Platform Ecosystem
Authors: Zhao Hongxia , Xu Guangming , Liu Lu , Shi Changchun , Zhao Huijuan
Published: February 2023

Low carbon has become a highly relevant topic in today’s society, particularly for manufacturing enterprises. To gain insight into how manufacturing enterprises embedded in the industrial internet platform make decisions regarding low-carbon technology innovation, this article examines the service quality of the platform, the low-carbon preferences of the manufacturing enterprises, and government subsidy factors. A platform ecological system game model, comprised of a single manufacturing enterprise and an industrial internet platform, is then established. The results indicate that, under the model’s assumptions, the decarbonization of production can only occur when the cost of low-carbon innovation is below a specific threshold. Decentralized decision making is more effective in promoting low-carbon innovation by the manufacturing enterprises when the cost of low-carbon technology innovation is low. The greater the service quality of the industrial internet platform, the stronger the positive influence of the low-carbon preferences of users and government subsidies on the low-carbon innovation level of the manufacturing enterprises. This study offers useful decision-making advice for both the industrial internet platform and the manufacturing enterprises.
Assessing Sustainable Passenger Transportation Systems to Address Climate Change Based on MCDM Methods in an Uncertain Environment
Authors: Ghoushchi Saeid Jafarzadeh , Ab Rahman Mohd Nizam Ab , Soltanzadeh Moein , Rafique Muhammad Zeeshan , Hernadewita Hernadewita , Marangalo Fatemeh Yadegar , Ismail Ahmad Rasdan
Published: February 2023

Climate change, the emission of greenhouse gases, and air pollution are some of the most important and challenging environmental issues. One of the main sources of such problems is the field of transportation, which leads to the emission of greenhouse gases. An efficient way to deal with such problems is carrying out sustainable transportation to reduce the amount of air pollution in an efficient way. The evaluation of sustainable vehicles can be considered a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method due to the existence of several criteria. In this paper, we aim to provide an approach based on MCDM methods and the spherical fuzzy set (SFS) concept to evaluate and prioritize sustainable vehicles for a transportation system in Tehran, Iran. Therefore, we have developed a new integrated approach based on the stepwise weight assessment ratio analysis (SWARA) and the measurement of alternatives and ranking according to the compromise solution (MARCOS) methods in SFS to assess the sustainable vehicles based on the criteria identified by experts. The evaluation results show that the main criterion of the environment has a high degree of importance compared to other criteria. Moreover, autonomous vehicles are the best and most sustainable vehicles to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, by comparing the ranking results with other decision-making methods, it was found that the proposed approach has high validity and efficiency.
Holistic Framework to Data-Driven Sustainability Assessment
Authors: Peças Paulo , John Lenin , Ribeiro Inês , Baptista António J. , Pinto Sara M. , Dias Rui , Henriques Juan , Estrela Marco , Pilastri André , Cunha Fernando
Published: February 2023

In recent years, the Twin-Transition reference model has gained notoriety as one of the key options for decarbonizing the economy while adopting more sustainable models leveraged by the Industry 4.0 paradigm. In this regard, one of the most relevant challenges is the integration of data-driven approaches with sustainability assessment approaches, since overcoming this challenge will foster more agile sustainable development. Without disregarding the effort of academics and practitioners in the development of sustainability assessment approaches, the authors consider the need for holistic frameworks that also encourage continuous improvement in sustainable development. The main objective of this research is to propose a holistic framework that supports companies to assess sustainability performance effectively and more easily, supported by digital capabilities and data-driven concepts, while integrating improvement procedures and methodologies. To achieve this objective, the research is based on the analysis of published approaches, with special emphasis on the data-driven concepts supporting sustainability assessment and Lean Thinking methods. From these results, we identified and extracted the metrics, scopes, boundaries, and kinds of output for decision-making. A new holistic framework is described, and we have included a guide with the steps necessary for its adoption in a given company, thus helping to enhance sustainability while using data availability and data-analytics tools.
Analysis of Selected Solutions for Sustainable Urban Deliveries in the Construction Industry
Authors: Osypchuk Oleksandra , Iwan Stanisław
Published: February 2023

Modern cities are places where the ever-increasing human needs are met. This is possible through the creation of friendly living conditions and enabling economic exchange, as a result of which enterprises provide their clients with goods and services. Urban freight transport is an element that supports these processes. However, in addition to the benefits it delivers, its organization and impacts pose challenges in environmental, economic, and social terms. Implementation of construction projects is a determinant of the development of modern cities. However, this entails transport for supply purposes, which significantly affects the volume of freight transport in cities. Such a large share translates into a growing interest in the topic of using more sustainable ways of organizing and providing construction-related transport. The paper presents the first stage of research aimed at building a model for the implementation of good practices in the field of construction supplies. The aim of the paper was to analyze the transport of construction supplies in terms of compliance with the principles of sustainable development on the example of construction projects currently implemented in Szczecin. Furthermore, this paper is centered around collecting good practices in the field of construction transport. The goal was achieved using the analysis of the statistical data, non-structured observation, and surveys regarding construction projects being carried out in Szczecin, and also paper-and-pencil interviews with experts. It was possible to identify irregularities and gaps in knowledge in the field of sustainable urban freight transport for the implementation of construction supplies. The diagnosed current condition may be a significant source of problems in the future and clearly indicates the need for further research and action by both city authorities and enterprises in the direction of implementing measures for sustainable urban freight transport. As part of the paper, the possibility of using Petri nets in decision-making processes on the implementation of selected organizational solutions contributing to a more sustainable organization of construction supplies was also examined. The developed decision models were simulated in the HPSim software. Models created by the authors using Petri nets can be an important tool that clearly and transparently shows enterprises their possibilities in the implementation of good practices.
A Systematic Review of the Concrete Durability Incorporating Recycled Glass
Authors: Mansour Mohammed A. , Ismail Mohd Hanif Bin , Imran Latif Qadir Bux alias , Alshalif Abdullah Faisal , Milad Abdalrhman , Bargi Walid Abdullah Al
Published: February 2023

This systematic literature review (SLR) aims to present and analyze the recent research on the effect of recycled glass (RG) on the durability of concrete applications in terms of transport properties, chemical attack, alkali-silica reaction (ASR), and freeze/thaw (FT). RG could be utilized in concrete as a replacement or addition in three forms, namely glass powder (GP), glass aggregate (GA), and glass fiber (GF). The methodology of this study was based on a criterion for the selection process of reviewed studies to assess and synthesize the knowledge of the durability of RG in concrete. The articles were assessed and screened, then 114 review articles were selected. The direction of utilization of RG in concrete depends on the type, particle size, and pozzolanic performance. The valorization of RG had a positive impact on the durability of concrete; however, the mutual synergy of multiple substitutions with glass also had better results. Nowadays, fine glass aggregate (FGA) could be promoted to be used as a partial substitute for sand due to the easiness of recycling. Furthermore, GF is strongly encouraged to be used in fiber concrete. An analytical framework that highlights the durability improvement of glass-modified concrete is presented. The results suggested that it is technically feasible to utilize glass as a part of concrete in the production of durable concrete. It provides a higher resistance to transport properties and chemical attacks by providing an extended lifespan. In addition, RG plays a great role in FT action in cold climates while it does not have a significant impact on ASR, provided refinement of glass results in the reduction of ASR and thus overcomes the expansion and cracks of concrete. However, up to 20% GP and up to 30% fine glass aggregate (FGA) could be replaced with cement and aggregate, respectively, to achieve a positive effect on durability based on the W/C ratio provided, not compromising the strength.
Design and Characteristics of a Hybrid Wood-Soil System Made from Casuarina glauca Wood
Authors: Allam Hassan , Yosry Khaled , Adham Mohamed , Darwish Mohamed , Nassar Khaled
Published: February 2023

Wood has been used in construction has for several millennia; however, global warming has created situations in which the wood needs to be utilized in a more eco-friendly, sustainable, and cost-effective manner. Using wood from trees farmed on wastewater is an ideal option that has been found to be sound for this use. Casuarina glauca wood has been farmed on wastewater for years, making it eco-friendly and cost effective, in addition to being of relatively high strength when compared to soft woods. Hence, within this research, Casuarina glauca wood is used within a hybrid wood-soil system. A scaled model of the structure was constructed and tested structurally until failure in two horizontal planes: the lateral and transverse. The points of weakness in the connections were identified in order to adjust the design, which mainly involved the nails connecting the studs to the upper and lower beams. The adjusted model was constructed including additional X-braces and tested structurally, and was proven to have sufficient strength compared to the wind loads according to the Egyptian Code of Loading. The design was compared to its reinforced concrete alternative to assess its cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness in terms of the cost per unit area and the carbon emissions per unit area. The system proved to be more cost-effective and eco-friendly when compared to its reinforced concrete counterpart.
Investigating Special Education Teachers’ Views on Mathematics Instruction Process: Sugesstions for Sustainable Special Education in Mathematics Instruction
Authors: Özdemir Sarem , Kılıç Yalın
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to explore the experiences of special education teachers’ mathematics instruction process and to present suggestions for sustainable special education in mathematics instruction. Seventeen special education teachers were interviewed in this study. Hence, a qualitative research design and content analysis were used. Three dimensions were considered in the interviews, including: teaching mathematics to students with disabilities in terms of teaching methods, manipulatives, and assessments; the mathematics curriculum; and challenges that special education teachers face throughout the process. According to the results, most teachers still use direct or explicit instruction based on the behaviorist approach. All participants stated that they use mathematics manipulatives to help learners perceive mathematical concepts. They also use Individualized Education Programs to assess their students. Participants stated that every disability group and every child need to be considered uniquely since their disabilities and levels vary. Participants also said that they are only able to teach numbers, addition, and some basic geometric shapes due to time insufficiency and crowded classrooms. Almost every participant stated that insufficient time and teacher shortage are the biggest problems of the system. The study has limitations or weaknesses. In this study, since the interviewing method was used, and the findings are the extent of what the participants have indicated, and the statements of the participants are limited to what she/he explained to the researcher. In the study, it is suggested that mathematics teachers and special education teachers should cooperate. In addition, suggestions are made, such as conducting experimental research studies to see the most efficient way to teach mathematics in homogenous groups. Finally, future researchers are advised to focus on the possible consequences of applying constructivist learning theory.
New System for Efficient Removal of Lignin with a High Proportion of Chlorine Dioxide
Authors: He Jiahao , Liu Baojie , Yao Shuangquan , Chen Can , Liang Chen , Wang Shuangfei , Qin Chengrong , Hao Yu , Liao Tong , Xu Cuisheng , Huang Guibin , He Pengda
Published: February 2023

Chlorine dioxide is used extensively as the bleaching agent in the clean pulp bleaching process. To further improve the efficiency of chlorine dioxide delignification, this study discusses the effect of a new system of a high proportion of chlorine dioxide on lignin removal. When the mass ratio of chlorine dioxide to lignin was 4 in this system, 50% of lignin was removed in a short time. To optimize the new bleaching system, the effects of temperature and pulp consistency on the new system were studied. The ratio of lignin removed was 50% when the reaction time was 30 min, temperature was 25 °C, and the pulp consistency was 5%. Compared with traditional chlorine dioxide bleaching, high proportion of chlorine dioxide bleaching can shorten the reaction time by 50%, reduce the reaction temperature to 25 °C, and greatly reduce energy consumption and adsorbable organic halogen (AOX) production by 45%. The new system provides a novel idea for clean bleaching of pulp.
Microbial Enzyme Systems in the Production of Second Generation Bioethanol
Authors: Soni Sanjeev Kumar , Sharma Apurav , Soni Raman
Published: February 2023

The primary contributor to global warming has been the careless usage of fossil fuels. Urbanization’s threat to the depletion of these resources has made it necessary to find alternatives due to the rising demand. Four different forms of biofuels are now available and constitute a possible replacement for fossil fuels. The first generation of biofuels is generated from the edible portion of biomass, the second generation is made from the non-edible portion of biomass, the third generation is made from algal biomass, and the fourth generation is made using molecular biology to improve the algal strain. Second-generation biofuels are extremely important because they are derived from non-edible biomass, such as agricultural and agro-industrial wastes rich in cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin, and starch impregnated with lignin, and are hydrolyzed after delignification by physio-chemical or biological pretreatments using ligninases. The enzymes involved in the hydrolysis of feedstocks for the production of second-generation bioethanol, a highly acceptable biofuel, are discussed in this article. Furthermore, the article discusses various fermentation technologies as well as significant developments in second-generation biofuel production by combining various microbial enzyme systems.
The Metastable State and the Finite-Size Effect of the First-Order Phase Transition
Authors: Xu Mingmei , Wu Yuanfang
Published: February 2023

In the QCD, a transition restoring the chiral symmetry occurs at a high temperature and density. Searching for the signals of the QCD phase transition is one of the goals of the current relativistic heavy-ion physics programs. The metastable state is a unique feature of the first-order phase transition. Using the van der Waals equation of state, the role of the metastable state in finite-size effects is analyzed. It is found that the finite-size effects of the first-order phase transition are closely related to the metastable state. Metastability can be observed in the distribution of the order parameters and the probability of its occurrence depends on the system scale. A sizable probability of the metastability requires a small enough system size. The possibility of observing the metastability in the RHIC/BES is discussed.
Empirical Bayes Decision for a Generalized Exponential Distribution with Contaminated Data
Authors: Qiu Han , Chen Jiaqing , Yuan Zihao , Huang Yangxin
Published: February 2023

The two-sided and one-sided empirical Bayes test (EBT) rules for the parameter of a generalized exponential distribution with contaminated data (errors in variables) are constructed by a deconvolution kernel method, respectively. Under the type of the supersmooth error distributions and the supersmooth errors with the error level can be controlled situations, the asymptotically optimal uniformly over a class of prior distributions and uniform rates of convergence of the corresponding regret for the proposed EBT rules are obtained with suitable conditions. The example study shows that the assumptions and conditions of the main results of this paper are satisfied easily by calculating.
Avoiding Tissue Overlap in 2D Images: Single-Slice DBT Classification Using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Mendes João , Matela Nuno , Garcia Nuno
Published: February 2023

Breast cancer was the most diagnosed cancer around the world in 2020. Screening programs, based on mammography, aim to achieve early diagnosis which is of extreme importance when it comes to cancer. There are several flaws associated with mammography, with one of the most important being tissue overlapping that can result in both lesion masking and fake-lesion appearance. To overcome this, digital breast tomosynthesis takes images (slices) at different angles that are later reconstructed into a 3D image. Having in mind that the slices are planar images where tissue overlapping does not occur, the goal of the work done here was to develop a deep learning model that could, based on the said slices, classify lesions as benign or malignant. The developed model was based on the work done by Muduli et. al, with a slight change in the fully connected layers and in the regularization done. In total, 77 DBT volumes—39 benign and 38 malignant—were available. From each volume, nine slices were taken, one where the lesion was most visible and four above/below. To increase the quantity and the variability of the data, common data augmentation techniques (rotation, translation, mirroring) were applied to the original images three times. Therefore, 2772 images were used for training. Data augmentation techniques were then applied two more times—one set used for validation and one set used for testing. Our model achieved, on the testing set, an accuracy of 93.2% while the values of sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1-score, and Cohen’s kappa were 92%, 94%, 94%, 94%, and 0.86, respectively. Given these results, the work done here suggests that the use of single-slice DBT can compare to state-of-the-art studies and gives a hint that with more data, better augmentation techniques and the use of transfer learning might overcome the use of mammograms in this type of studies.
Preliminary Study on the Protective Effects and Molecular Mechanism of Procyanidins against PFOS-Induced Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Secretion Impairment in INS-1 Cells
Authors: Xu Hai-Ming , Wu Meng-Yu , Shi Xin-Chen , Liu Ke-Liang , Zhang Ying-Chi , Zhang Yin-Feng , Li Hong-Mei
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effects of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) exposure on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) of rat insulinoma (INS-1) cells and the potential protective effects of procyanidins (PC). The effects of PFOS and/or PC on GSIS of INS-1 cells were investigated after 48 h of exposure (protein level: insulin; gene level: glucose transporter 2 (Glut2), glucokinase (Gck), and insulin). Subsequently, the effects of exposure on the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity were measured. Compared to the control group, PFOS exposure (12.5, 25, and 50 μM) for 48 h had no significant effect on the viability of INS-1 cells. PFOS exposure (50 μM) could reduce the level of insulin secretion and reduce the relative mRNA expression levels of Glut2, Gck, and insulin. It is worth noting that PC could partially reverse the damaging effect caused by PFOS. Significantly, there was an increase in ROS after exposure to PFOS and a decline after PC intervention. PFOS could affect the normal physiological function of GSIS in INS-1 cells. PC, a plant natural product, could effectively alleviate the damage caused by PFOS by inhibiting ROS activity.
Experimental Studies on Zooplankton-Toxic Cyanobacteria Interactions: A Review
Authors: Nandini S. , Sarma S. S. S.
Published: February 2023

Cyanobacterial blooms have been recognized as a problem in fresh water for about 150 years. Over the past 50 years, experimental studies on the subject have gained importance considering the increasing need to control toxic cyanobacterial blooms. This article presents information on the different lines of research that have been undertaken on zooplankton–cyanobacteria interactions over the past 50 years. These include information on filtering/ingestion rates and phytoplankton preferences of small and large rotifers, cladocerans, and copepods; growth rates of zooplankton on cyanobacterial diets; feeding rates of other freshwater invertebrates on cyanobacteria; role of zooplankton in top-down biomanipulation efforts; effect of cyanotoxins on zooplankton; bioaccumulation of cyanotoxins; and physical and chemical control of cyanobacterial blooms. We also highlight measures that have led to successful lake management and improvement of water quality in selected waterbodies.
Stage-Related Neurotoxicity of BPA in the Development of Zebrafish Embryos
Authors: Liu Jianjun , Kong Wenyu , Liu Yuchen , Ma Qiyao , Shao Qi , Zeng Liwen , Chao Yu , Song Xiaoyao , Zhang Jie
Published: February 2023

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most widely produced chemicals in the world used in the production of epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics. BPA is easily migrated from the outer packaging to the contents. Due to the lipophilic property, BPA is easily accumulated in organisms. Perinatal low-dose BPA exposure alters brain neural development in later generations. In this study, after BPA treatment, the spontaneous movement of zebrafish larvae from the cleavage period to the segmentation period (1–24 hpf) was significantly decreased, with speed decreasing by 18.97% and distance decreasing between 18.4 and 29.7% compared to controls. Transcriptomics analysis showed that 131 genes were significantly differentially expressed in the exposed group during the 1–24 hpf period, among which 39 genes were significantly upregulated and 92 genes were significantly downregulated. The GO enrichment analysis, gene function analysis and real-time quantitative PCR of differentially expressed genes showed that the mRNA level of guanine deaminase (cypin) decreased significantly in the 1–24 hpf period. Moreover, during the 1–24 hpf period, BPA exposure reduced guanine deaminase activity. Therefore, we confirmed that cypin is a key sensitive gene for BPA during this period. Finally, the cypin mRNA microinjection verified that the cypin level of zebrafish larvae was restored, leading to the restoration of the locomotor activity. Taken together, the current results show that the sensitive period of BPA to zebrafish embryos is from the cleavage period to the segmentation period (1–24 hpf), and cypin is a potential target for BPA-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity. This study provides a potential sensitive period and a potential target for the deep understanding of neurodevelopmental toxicity mechanisms caused by BPA.
Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) Alters Immune and Apoptotic Endpoints in Developing Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Iftikhar Nazish , Konig Isaac , English Cole , Ivantsova Emma , Souders Christopher L. , Hashmi Imran , Martyniuk Christopher J.
Published: February 2023

Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) is a broad-range bacteriostatic antibiotic widely used in animal and fish farming and is also employed in human medicine. These antibiotics can ultimately end up in the aquatic ecosystem and affect non-target organisms such as fish. To discern the effect of SMX on developing zebrafish embryos and larvae, we investigated a broad range of sub-lethal toxicity endpoints. Higher concentrations of SMX affected survivability, caused hatch delay, and induced malformations including edema of the yolk sac, pericardial effusion, bent tail, and curved spine in developing embryos. Lower levels of SMX provoked an inflammatory response in larvae at seven days post fertilization (dpf), as noted by up-regulation of interferon (ifn-γ) and interleukin 1β (il-1β). SMX also increased the expression of genes related to apoptosis, including BCL2-Associated Agonist of Cell Death (bad) and BCL2 Associated X, Apoptosis Regulator (bax) at 50 µg/L and decreased caspase 3 (casp3) expression in a dose-dependent manner. SMX induced hyperactivity in larval fish at 500 and 2500 µg/L based upon the light/dark preference test. Collectively, this study revealed that exposure to SMX can disrupt the immune system by altering host defense mechanisms as well as transcripts related to apoptosis. These data improve understanding of antibiotic chemical toxicity in aquatic organisms and serves as a baseline for in-depth environmental risk assessment of SMX and antibiotics.
Estimating Dengue Transmission Intensity in China Using Catalytic Models Based on Serological Data
Authors: Li Ning , Li Haidong , Chen Zhengji , Xiong Huan , Li Zhibo , Wei Tao , Liu Wei , Zhang Xu-Sheng
Published: February 2023

In recent decades, the global incidence of dengue has risen sharply, with more than 75% of infected people showing mild or no symptoms. Since the year 2000, dengue in China has spread quickly. At this stage, there is an urgent need to fully understand its transmission intensity and spread in China. Serological data provide reliable evidence for symptomatic and recessive infections. Through a literature search, we included 23 studies that collected age-specific serological dengue data released from 1980 to 2021 in China. Fitting four catalytic models to these data, we distinguished the transmission mechanisms by deviation information criterion and estimated force of infection and basic reproduction number (R0), important parameters for quantifying transmission intensity. We found that transmission intensity varies over age in most of the study populations, and attenuation of antibody protection is identified in some study populations; the R0 of dengue in China is between 1.04–2.33. Due to the scarceness of the data, the temporal trend cannot be identified, but data shows that transmission intensity weakened from coastal to inland areas and from southern to northern areas in China if assuming it remained temporally steady during the study period. The results should be useful for the effective control of dengue in China.
Molecular Detection and Genetic Characterization of Zoonotic Hookworm in Semi-Domesticated Cats Residing in Monasteries in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Phoosangwalthong Pornkamol , Kamyingkird Ketsarin , Kengradomkij Chanya , Chimnoi Wissanuwat , Odermatt Peter , Inpankaew Tawin
Published: February 2023

Hookworms are the most common parasitic nematodes in the genus of Ancylostoma that infect both humans and animals in subtropical and tropical South East Asia. The common hookworm species in cats is Ancylostoma ceylanicum which is emerging in Thailand. However, the genetic characterization of hookworms in cats is outdated and insufficiently studied in Thailand. We aimed to investigate the prevalence, risk factors and genetic characterization of hookworm infection in semi-domesticated temple cats in Bangkok, Thailand. A total of 500 temple cat fecal samples were collected from 43 monasteries in 24 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was performed by amplifying the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene and mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (cox 1) gene. The infection prevalence of hookworm in temple cats was 13.2% (66/500). The highest prevalence was 34.6% in the Bang Khun Thian district, which is located in a suburban area. The risk factor analysis revealed that cats older than one year (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.5, p < 0.05), lack of veterinary attention (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.7–4.9, p < 0.001) and Bangkok zone (suburban vs. inner city; OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.6–5.4, p < 0.001) were significantly increasing hookworm infection risk. All hookworm positive samples were identified as A. ceylanicum by ITS gene. Moreover, genetic characterization of cox 1 gene in A. ceylanicum isolates indicated a mix of isolates from humans, cats and dogs. The findings show that temple cats can act as a potential source of zoonotic hookworm parasites for the human and animal population in Bangkok, Thailand. Therefore, appropriate control measures for hookworms in semi-domesticated temple cats as well as prevention measures for hookworms in pet cats and humans should be promoted.
Cosmic-Ray Acceleration in Supernova Remnants
Authors: Sinitsyna Vera G. , Sinitsyna Vera Y.
Published: February 2023

Supernova Remnants (SNRs) are generally believed to produce the cosmic rays in our Galaxy due to the powerful supernova blast waves generated by expanding SNRs. In contrast to the leptonic cosmic-ray component that is clearly seen by the SNR emission in a wide wavelength range, from radio to high-energy γ-ray, the hadronic cosmic-ray component can be detected only by very high energy γ-ray emission. Galactic SNRs of various ages have been intensively studied at very high energies. Among them are the shell-type SNRs: Tycho’s SNR, Cas A, IC 443, γCygni SNR, G166.0+4.3. The results of investigations of listed SNRs obtained in observations at 800 GeV–100 TeV energies by SHALON telescope are presented with spectral energy distribution and emission maps compared with experimental data from the wide energy range, from radio to high-energy gamma-rays. The TeV emission maps of supernova remnants obtained by SHALON are overlaid with ones viewed in radio- frequencies and X-rays to reveal SNR’s essential features which can lead to the effective generation of cosmic rays. The presented experimental data from high and very high energies are considered together with theoretical predictions to test the cosmic ray origin in these objects.
Analysis of Fowl Adenovirus 4 Transcriptome by De Novo ORF Prediction Based on Corrected Nanopore Full-Length cDNA Sequencing Data
Authors: Lu Zhuozhuang , Wang Yongjin , Zou Xiaohui , Hung Tao
Published: February 2023

The transcriptome of fowl adenovirus has not been comprehensively revealed. Here, we attempted to analyze the fowl adenovirus 4 (FAdV-4) transcriptome by deep sequencing. RNA samples were extracted from chicken LMH cells at 12, 18 or 26 h post-FAdV-4 infection, and subjected to Illumina strand-specific RNA-seq or nanopore full-length PCR-cDNA sequencing. After removing the reads of host cells, the data of FAdV-4 nanopore full-length cDNAs (transcripts) were corrected with reads from the Illumina RNA-seq, mapped to the viral genome and then used to predict viral open reading frames (ORFs). Other than 42 known ORFs, 39 novel ORFs were annotated to the FAdV-4 genome. Different from human adenovirus 5, one FAdV-4 ORF was often encoded by several transcripts, and more FAdV-4 ORFs were located on two exons. With these data, 18 major transcription start sites and 15 major transcription termination sites were defined, implying 18 viral promoters and 15 polyadenylation signals. The temporal cascade of viral gene transcription was observed in FAdV-4-infected cells, with six promoters possessing considerable activity in the early phase. Unexpectedly, four promoters, instead of one major late promoter, were engaged in the transcription of the viral genus-common genes on the forward strand. The clarification of the FAdV-4 transcriptome laid a solid foundation for the study of viral gene function, virulence and virus evolution, and it would help construct FAdV-4 as a gene transfer vehicle. The strategy of de novo ORF prediction could be used to parse the transcriptome of other novel adenoviruses.