bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infection Dynamics and Genomic Mutations of Hepatitis E Virus in Naturally Infected Pigs on a Farrow-to-Finish Farm in Japan: A Survey from 2012 to 2021
Authors: Takahashi Masaharu , Kunita Satoshi , Nishizawa Tsutomu , Ohnishi Hiroshi , Primadharsini Putu Prathiwi , Nagashima Shigeo , Murata Kazumoto , Okamoto Hiroaki
Published: July 2023

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes acute or chronic hepatitis in humans. Pigs are the primary reservoir for zoonotic HEV genotypes 3 and 4 worldwide. This study investigated the infection dynamics and genomic mutations of HEV in domestic pigs on a farrow-to-finish pig farm in Japan between 2012 and 2021. A high prevalence of anti-HEV IgG antibodies was noted among pigs on this farm in 2012, when the survey started, and persisted for at least nine years. During 2012–2021, HEV RNA was detected in both serum and fecal samples, indicating active viral replication. Environmental samples, including slurry samples in manure pits, feces on the floor, floor and wall swabs in pens, and dust samples, also tested positive for HEV RNA, suggesting potential sources of infection within the farm environment. Indeed, pigs raised in HEV-contaminated houses had a higher rate of HEV infection than those in an HEV-free house. All 104 HEV strains belonged to subgenotype 3b, showing a gradual decrease in nucleotide identities over time. The 2012 (swEJM1201802S) and 2021 (swEJM2100729F) HEV strains shared 97.9% sequence identity over the entire genome. Importantly, the swEJM2100729F strain efficiently propagated in human hepatoma cells, demonstrating its infectivity. These findings contribute to our understanding of the prevalence, transmission dynamics, and genetic characteristics of HEV in domestic pigs, emphasizing the potential risks associated with HEV infections and are crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate the risk of HEV infection in both animals and humans.
Ultrastructural and Functional Characterization of Mitochondrial Dynamics Induced by Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in HEp-2 Cells
Authors: Lara-Hernandez Ignacio , Muñoz-Escalante Juan Carlos , Bernal-Silva Sofía , Noyola Daniel E. , Wong-Chew Rosa María , Comas-García Andreu , Comas-Garcia Mauricio
Published: July 2023

Human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) is the leading cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections in children under five years of age and older adults worldwide. During hRSV infection, host cells undergo changes in endomembrane organelles, including mitochondria. This organelle is responsible for energy production in the cell and plays an important role in the antiviral response. The present study focuses on characterizing the ultrastructural and functional changes during hRSV infection using thin-section transmission electron microscopy and RT-qPCR. Here we report that hRSV infection alters mitochondrial morphodynamics by regulating the expression of key genes in the antiviral response process, such as Mfn1, VDAC2, and PINK1. Our results suggest that hRSV alters mitochondrial morphology during infection, producing a mitochondrial phenotype with shortened cristae, swollen matrix, and damaged membrane. We also observed that hRSV infection modulates the expression of the aforementioned genes, possibly as an evasion mechanism in the face of cellular antiviral response. Taken together, these results advance our knowledge of the ultrastructural alterations associated with hRSV infection and might guide future therapeutic efforts to develop effective antiviral drugs for hRSV treatment.
The History of Baculovirology in Africa
Authors: Moore Sean , Jukes Michael
Published: July 2023

Baculovirology has been studied on the African continent for the development of insect virus-based biopesticides and, to a much lesser extent, vaccine production and delivery, since the 1960s. In this review, we focus only on baculoviruses as biopesticides for agricultural pests in Africa. At least 11 species of baculovirus have been discovered or studied on the African continent, some with several distinct isolates, with the objective in most cases being the development of a biopesticide. These include the nucleopolyhedroviruses of Helicoverpa armigera, Cryptophlebia peltastica, Spodoptera exempta, Spodoptera frugiperda, Spodoptera littoralis, and Maruca vitrata, as well as the granuloviruses of Cydia pomonella, Plutella xylostella, Thaumatotibia (Cryptophlebia) leucotreta, Choristoneura occidentalis, and Phthorimaea operculella. Eleven different baculovirus-based biopesticides are recorded as being registered and commercially available on the African continent. Baculoviruses are recorded to have been isolated, researched, utilised in field trials, and/or commercially deployed as biopesticides in at least 13 different African countries. Baculovirus research is ongoing in Africa, and researchers are confident that further novel species and isolates will be discovered, to the benefit of environmentally responsible agricultural pest management, not only in Africa but also elsewhere.
First Report of Alphacoronavirus Circulating in Cavernicolous Bats from Portugal
Authors: Hemnani Mahima , Silva Priscilla Gomes da , Thompson Gertrude , Poeta Patricia , Rebelo Hugo , Mesquita João R.
Published: July 2023

The emergence of novel coronaviruses (CoVs) has emphasized the need to understand their diversity and distribution in animal populations. Bats have been identified as crucial reservoirs for CoVs, and they are found in various bat species worldwide. In this study, we investigated the presence of CoVs of four cavernicolous bats in six locations in the centre and south of Portugal. We collected faeces, anal, and buccal swab samples, as well as air samples from the locations using a Coriolis air sampler. Our results indicate that CoVs were more readily detected in faecal samples compared to anal and buccal swab samples. No CoVs were detected in the air samples. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the detected viruses belong to the Alphacoronavirus genus. This study represents the first report of Alphacoronaviruses circulating in bats in Portugal and highlights the importance of continuous surveillance for novel CoVs in bat populations globally. Ongoing surveillance for CoVs in bat populations is essential as they are a vital source of these viruses. It is crucial to understand the ecological relationships between animals, humans, and the environment to prevent and control the emergence and transmission of infectious diseases. Further ecological studies are needed to investigate the factors contributing to the emergence and transmission of zoonotic viruses.
Rapid Triage of Children with Suspected COVID-19 Using Laboratory-Based Machine-Learning Algorithms
Authors: Dobrijević Dejan , Vilotijević-Dautović Gordana , Katanić Jasmina , Horvat Mirjana , Horvat Zoltan , Pastor Kristian
Published: July 2023

In order to limit the spread of the novel betacoronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), it is necessary to detect positive cases as soon as possible and isolate them. For this purpose, machine-learning algorithms, as a field of artificial intelligence, have been recognized as a promising tool. The aim of this study was to assess the utility of the most common machine-learning algorithms in the rapid triage of children with suspected COVID-19 using easily accessible and inexpensive laboratory parameters. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 566 children treated for respiratory diseases: 280 children with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and 286 children with respiratory symptoms who were SARS-CoV-2 PCR-negative (control group). Six machine-learning algorithms, based on the blood laboratory data, were tested: random forest, support vector machine, linear discriminant analysis, artificial neural network, k-nearest neighbors, and decision tree. The training set was validated through stratified cross-validation, while the performance of each algorithm was confirmed by an independent test set. Random forest and support vector machine models demonstrated the highest accuracy of 85% and 82.1%, respectively. The models demonstrated better sensitivity than specificity and better negative predictive value than positive predictive value. The F1 score was higher for the random forest than for the support vector machine model, 85.2% and 82.3%, respectively. This study might have significant clinical applications, helping healthcare providers identify children with COVID-19 in the early stage, prior to PCR and/or antigen testing. Additionally, machine-learning algorithms could improve overall testing efficiency with no extra costs for the healthcare facility.
Insecticidal Traits of Variants in a Genotypically Diverse Natural Isolate of Anticarsia Gemmatalis Multiple Nucleopolyhedrovirus (AgMNPV)
Authors: Parras-Jurado Ana , Muñoz Delia , Beperet Inés , Williams Trevor , Caballero Primitivo
Published: July 2023

Outbreaks of Anticarsia gemmatalis (Hübner, 1818) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae), a major pest of soybean, can be controlled below economic thresholds with methods that do not involve the application of synthetic insecticides. Formulations based on natural isolates of the Anticarsia gemmatalis multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AgMNPV) (Baculoviridae: Alphabaculovirus) played a significant role in integrated pest management programs in the early 2000s, but a new generation of chemical insecticides and transgenic soybean have displaced AgMNPV-based products over the past decade. However, the marked genotypic variability present among and within alphabaculovirus isolates suggests that highly insecticidal genotypic variants can be isolated and used to reduce virus production costs or overcome isolate-dependent host resistance. This study aimed to select novel variants of AgMNPV with suitable insecticidal traits that could complement the existing AgMNPV active ingredients. Three distinct AgMNPV isolates were compared using their restriction endonuclease profile and in terms of their occlusion body (OB) pathogenicity. One isolate was selected (AgABB51) from which eighteen genotypic variants were plaque purified and characterized in terms of their insecticidal properties. The five most pathogenic variants varied in OB pathogenicity, although none of them was faster-killing or had higher OB production characteristics than the wild-type isolate. We conclude that the AgABB51 wild-type isolates appear to be genotypically structured for fast speed of kill and high OB production, both of which would favor horizontal transmission. Interactions among the component variants are likely to influence this insecticidal phenotype.
Artificial Intelligence and Public Health: Evaluating ChatGPT Responses to Vaccination Myths and Misconceptions
Authors: Deiana Giovanna , Dettori Marco , Arghittu Antonella , Azara Antonio , Gabutti Giovanni , Castiglia Paolo
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, are the subject of intense debate regarding their possible applications in contexts such as health care. This study evaluates the Correctness, Clarity, and Exhaustiveness of the answers provided by ChatGPT on the topic of vaccination. The World Health Organization’s 11 “myths and misconceptions” about vaccinations were administered to both the free (GPT-3.5) and paid version (GPT-4.0) of ChatGPT. The AI tool’s responses were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively, in reference to those myth and misconceptions provided by WHO, independently by two expert Raters. The agreement between the Raters was significant for both versions (p of K < 0.05). Overall, ChatGPT responses were easy to understand and 85.4% accurate although one of the questions was misinterpreted. Qualitatively, the GPT-4.0 responses were superior to the GPT-3.5 responses in terms of Correctness, Clarity, and Exhaustiveness (Δ = 5.6%, 17.9%, 9.3%, respectively). The study shows that, if appropriately questioned, AI tools can represent a useful aid in the health care field. However, when consulted by non-expert users, without the support of expert medical advice, these tools are not free from the risk of eliciting misleading responses. Moreover, given the existing social divide in information access, the improved accuracy of answers from the paid version raises further ethical issues.
Application of Baculovirus Expression Vector System (BEVS) in Vaccine Development
Authors: Hong Qiaonan , Liu Jian , Wei Yuquan , Wei Xiawei
Published: July 2023

Vaccination is one of the most effective strategies to control epidemics. With the deepening of people’s awareness of vaccination, there is a high demand for vaccination. Hence, a flexible, rapid, and cost-effective vaccine platform is urgently needed. The baculovirus expression vector system (BEVS) has emerged as a promising technology for vaccine production due to its high safety, rapid production, flexible product design, and scalability. In this review, we introduced the development history of BEVS and the procedures for preparing recombinant protein vaccines using the BEVS platform and summarized the features and limitations of this platform. Furthermore, we highlighted the progress of the BEVS platform-related research, especially in the field of vaccine. Finally, we provided a new prospect for BEVS in future vaccine manufacturing, which may pave the way for future BEVS-derived vaccine development.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Beach Sediments of Eastern St. Martin’s Island, Bangladesh: Implications for Environmental and Human Health Risks
Authors: Bhuyan Md. Simul , Haider Sayeed Mahmood Belal , Meraj Gowhar , Bakar Muhammad Abu , Islam Md. Tarikul , Kunda Mrityunjoy , Siddique Md. Abu Bakar , Ali Mir Mohammad , Mustary Sobnom , Mojumder Istiak Ahamed , Bhat Mohd Aadil
Published: July 2023

Heavy metal pollution in marine ecosystems is an escalating environmental concern, largely driven by anthropogenic activities, and poses potential threats to ecological health and human well-being. This study embarked on a comprehensive investigation into the concentrations of heavy metals in sediment samples and evaluated their potential ecological and health risks with a focus on Eastern St. Martin’s Island (SMI), Bangladesh. Sediment samples were meticulously collected from 12 distinct sites around the island, and the concentrations of heavy metals, including Mn, Fe, Ni, Zn, Cr, Pb, and Cu, were quantified utilizing atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The results revealed that the average concentrations of the metals, in descending order, were Mn (269.5 ± 33.0 mg/kg), Fe (143.8 ± 21.7 mg/kg), Ni (29.6 ± 44.0 mg/kg), Zn (27.2 ± 4.34 mg/kg), Cr (8.09 ± 1.67 mg/kg), Pb (5.88 ± 0.45 mg/kg), and Cu (3.76 ± 0.60 mg/kg). Intriguingly, the concentrations of all the measured metals were found to be within permissible limits and comparatively lower than those documented in various national and international contexts. The ecological risk assessment, based on multiple sediment quality indices such as the geoaccumulation index, contamination factor, and pollution load index, indicated a moderate risk to the aquatic ecosystem but no significant adverse impact on sediment quality. Additionally, the human health risk assessment, encompassing non-carcinogenic hazard indices for different age groups, was considerably below the threshold, signifying no immediate health risk. The total carcinogenic risk was also found to be below acceptable levels. These findings underscore the current state of heavy metal pollution in Eastern St. Martin’s Island, providing valuable insights for environmental monitoring and management. While the immediate risks were not alarming, the study highlights the imperative need for sustained monitoring and the implementation of rigorous regulations to curb heavy metal pollution in order to safeguard both ecological and human health. This warrants the development of policies that are both adaptive and preemptive to ensure the sustainable utilization and conservation of marine resources.
Tradescantia-Based Test Systems Can Be Used for the Evaluation of the Toxic Potential of Harmful Algal Blooms
Authors: Khosrovyan Alla , Avalyan Rima , Atoyants Anahit , Aghajanyan Evelina , Hambaryan Lusine , Aroutiounian Rouben , Gabrielyan Bardukh
Published: July 2023

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are overgrowths of toxic strains of algae (diatoms, green) and cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). While occurring naturally, human-induced environmental changes have resulted in more frequent occurrences of such blooms worldwide. Meantime, the ecotoxicological risk of HABs is rarely evaluated by means of standard test methods. For the first time, the genotoxic potential of the HAB event 2020 was assessed using two different Tradescantia-based test systems (Trad-SHM and Trad-MN, 24-h exposure). An integrated analysis of biological (algal abundance) and ecotoxicological (testing) data revealed linkages among algal proliferation, changes in Tradescantia stamen hairs (mutations and suppressed growth) and chromosomal aberrations during microsporogenesis (appearance of micronuclei) that were likely to be caused by toxic algal groups. Green alga Botryococcus braunii and the cyanobacterial species Anabaena and Oscillatoria could suppress stamen hair growth; Cyanobacteria Phormidium and Aphanothece sp. could trigger mutations in stamen hairs (appearance of pink and colorless cells); and Oscillatoria sp. could be responsible for the occurrence of chromosomal damage. Diatom proliferation in the spring was not related to the genotoxic response in Tradescantia. Both tests, the Trad-SHM and Trad-MN, are suitable for the evaluation of the toxic potential of HABs.
Concern Condition for Applying Optimization Techniques with Reservoir Simulation Model for Searching Optimal Rule Curves
Authors: Sriworamas Krit , Prasanchum Haris , Ashrafi Seyed Mohammad , Hormwichian Rattana , Techarungruengsakul Rapeepat , Ngamsert Ratsuda , Chaiyason Teerajet , Kangrang Anongrit
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive review of optimization algorithms utilized in reservoir simulation-optimization models, specifically focusing on determining optimal rule curves. The study explores critical conditions essential for the optimization process, including inflow data, objective and smoothing functions, downstream water demand, initial reservoir characteristics, evaluation scenarios, and stop criteria. By examining these factors, the paper provides valuable insights into the effective application of optimization algorithms in reservoir operations. Furthermore, the paper discusses the application of popular optimization algorithms, namely the genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), cuckoo search (CS), and tabu search (TS), highlighting how researchers can utilize them in their studies. The findings of this review indicate that identifying optimal conditions and considering future scenarios contribute to the derivation of optimal rule curves for anticipated situations. The implementation of these curves can significantly enhance reservoir management practices and facilitate the resolution of water resource challenges, such as floods and droughts.
Hydrogeochemistry and Mercury Contamination of Surface Water in the Lom Gold Basin (East Cameroon): Water Quality Index, Multivariate Statistical Analysis and Spatial Interpolation
Authors: Bella Atangana Marie , Ndam Ngoupayou Jules , Deliege Jean-François
Published: July 2023

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining activities have an impact on natural resources and human health. This study addresses the assessment of surface water quality in the Lom gold basin. A combined approach of water quality index calculation, multivariate statistical analysis and spatial interpolation was used. Sampling was performed at 15 stations during low- and high-water periods in 2021 for classical physicochemical parameters and total mercury measurements. The results show that the physicochemical parameters were below drinking water standards for both periods, except for pH, total suspended solids and total mercury. These waters show a large cation deficit as well as an anion deficit. The water chemistry is controlled by precipitations and silicate dissolutions in rock that convert the water into the Ca-HCO3 and Ca-Mg-HCO3 types. The level of mercury contamination varied from acceptable to high due to high flow rates during high water that cause a dilution effect for the mercury concentration upstream and its accumulation downstream. The water quality varied from excellent to very poor with better quality during the high-water period. The Lom watershed is locally affected by physical and chemical pollution due to the abundance of suspended solids and mercury resulting from the different gold mining activities.
Integrative Taxonomy of the Bubble Snails (Cephalaspidea, Heterobranchia) Inhabiting a Promising Study Area: The Coastal Sicilian Faro Lake (Southern Italy)
Authors: Furfaro Giulia , Renda Walter , Nardi Gianbattista , Giacobbe Salvatore
Published: July 2023

The worldwide diffused bubble snails, Haminoeidae, although characterized by an extreme morphological homogeneity, display the most diverse radiation inside the order Cephalaspidea. This hidden diversity within the family Haminoeidae was recently unraveled by molecular studies, which helped to understand the evolutionary history of this group by clarifying some aspects of its systematics. In fact, the type genus Haminoea W. Turton and Kingston (1830) was proved to be polyphyletic and, consequently, the genus Haminoea sensu stricto was restricted to the Mediterranean, Atlantic and East Pacific species, with the Mediterranean Haminoea hydatis Linnaeus (1758) as the type taxon. However, at the specie rank, many aspects need to be clarified, especially concerning the Mediterranean fauna. Due to low reliability of macro-morphological characters, the minimal quantity of molecular data currently available on Mediterranean specimen adds to the lack of molecular comparison in most reports. Based on such considerations, Haminoea species from an interesting Mediterranean study area, Faro Lake, a Sicilian coastal lake that is considered a hot spot for both alien and endemic marine Heterobranchia, have been studied using an integrative taxonomic approach. Eleven Mediterranean specimens belonging to four Haminoea bubble snails have been collected, identified and compared with samples from other localities, integrating ecological, morphological, anatomical (reproductive apparatus) and molecular data. Based on molecular investigations carried out on three different molecular markers (H3, 16S and COI), the morphological identifications of the species collected in the Faro Lake have been confirmed, and 37 new sequences are provided for future comparisons. Furthermore, results from this integrative systematic study shed light on the phylogenetic relationships occurring in this group of bubble snails that could be useful in identifying valid diagnostic morphological characters. Haminoea hydatis and H. navicula were confirmed to be close to each other, with H. orteai as sister to them and with H. orbignyana as the basal taxon. Given external morphological features are unreliable with species identification in Haminoea genus open questions on the geographical distribution of the species and on their ranges of intraspecific variability have yet to be addressed and further in-depth studies are needed. Finally, the presence of three sympatric Haminoea species, two of which are considered native or long-time naturalized, along with other occasional congeneric species, and the absence of the introduced invasive Haloa japonica, reflects both the resilience and stochastic space-temporal dynamics of Faro Lake. This confirms it as an inexhaustible source of case-studies.
Measured Rainfall Infiltration and the Infiltration Interface Effect on Double-Layer Loess Slope
Authors: Bai Weishi , Li Rongjian , Pan Junyi , Li Rongjin , Wang Lei , Yang Zhengwu
Published: July 2023

It is of great theoretical and engineering significance to carry out field rainfall tests and research on double-layer soil slopes in loess areas. Based on the developed rainfall simulation system with slow-moving injection, field rainfall tests were carried out on a natural double-layer loess slope. The characteristics of volumetric water content were monitored, and the rainfall infiltration characteristics and infiltration effect at the interface of the soil layer were analyzed by numerical simulation. The results showed the fastest infiltration at the top platform of the slope, followed by that at the upper surface of the slope, and the slowest infiltration at the lower surface of the slope during rainfall. Under various rainfall intensities, the erosion of the upper silty loess slope was greater than that of the lower clay loess slope, and the erosion patterns were quite different at the end of rainfall. During the infiltration process in the double-layer loess slope, a stagnant transition area was formed near the interface of the soil layer. The equipotential line of water content in the stagnant transition area of the upper region was roughly parallel to the slope surface, and the equipotential line in the lower region was roughly parallel to the interface of the soil layer. With an increase in rainfall intensity, the upper transition area at the interface of the soil layer continued to extend from the slope surface inward, showing the interface infiltration effect that became increasingly significant with the intensification of rainfall. The infiltration effect at the soil layer interface could provide an evaluation basis for rainfall infiltration analyses of multi-layer soil slopes.
Evaluation of Water Network Construction Effect Based on Game-Weighting Matter-Element Cloud Model
Authors: Li Feng , Zhang Pengchao , Huang Xin , Li Huimin , Du Xuewan , Fei Xiaoxia
Published: July 2023

Water network construction is one of the important ways to solve complex water problems at present. It is crucial for the optimal allocation of water resources, flood control, disaster reduction, protection of water ecology, water security, and sustainable urban development. Accordingly, this study formulates an index system for assessing the efficacy of water network construction based on the Driving Force–Pressure–State–Influence–Response (DPSIR) model, taking into account the four dimensions of optimal allocation of water resources, flood control and disaster reduction in river basins, protection of water ecosystems, and intelligent water network management. The proposed index system comprises four key aspects, which are utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of water network construction efforts. Then, the game-weighting method and the matter-element extension method improved by the cloud theory established an evaluation model to evaluate and compare the water network construction effects of the two cities in Henan Province. Finally, the GM (1,1) model was used to evaluate the water network construction effects, and future trends were predicted. The results show the following: (1) On the whole, the effect of water network construction in the two cities is constantly improving; (2) There has been a significant improvement in the intelligent management of water networks. The main reason for this result is that the “Internet +” has promoted the intelligent construction of water networks; (3) The water ecological environment, flood control, and drainage capabilities continued to improve, which has largely guaranteed the basic security bottom line of urban development space; (4) The advancement and utilization of water resources has undergone gradual improvements over time, with key impact metrics centered on water supply safety factors and the development and utilization of water resources. As water supply sources continue to diversify, it is expected that the aforementioned situation will be ameliorated in the future; (5) The predicted value shows that the water network construction of the two cities can basically meet the planned value of each index when the water network construction reaches the planning level. This paper provides help to promote the sustainable use of water resources and ensure the sustainable development of cities.
Optimizing Solution in Decision Supporting System for River Basin Management Consisting of a Reservoir System
Authors: Ngamsert Ratsuda , Techarungruengsakul Rapeepat , Kaewplang Siwa , Hormwichian Rattana , Prasanchum Haris , Sivanpheng Ounla , Kangrang Anongrit
Published: July 2023

Decision support systems tackle problems and require systematic planning. They consider physical data, hydrological data, and sediment levels to achieve efficiency and adaptability in various situations. Therefore, this research aims to identify alternative engineering choices for the management of a river basin with a single reservoir system. Optimization techniques, including marine predator algorithm (MPA), genetic algorithm (GA), genetic programming (GP), tabu search (TS), and flower pollination algorithm (FPA), were applied to find the optimal reservoir rule curves using a reservoir simulation model. The study focused on the Ubolratana Reservoir in Thailand’s Khon Kaen Province, considering historic inflow data, water demand, hydrologic and physical data, and sedimentation volume. Four scenarios were considered: normal water scarcity, high water scarcity, normal excess water, and high excess water. The optimal rule curves derived from the reservoir simulation model, incorporating sedimentation and hedging rule (HR) criteria, were found to be the best engineering choices. In the normal and high water scarcity scenarios, they minimized the average water shortage to 95.558 MCM/year, with the lowest maximum water shortage 693.000 MCM/year. Similarly, in the normal and high excess water scenarios, the optimal rule curves minimized the average excess water, resulting in a minimum overflow of 1087.810 MCM/year and the lowest maximum overflow 4105.660 MCM/year. These findings highlight the effectiveness of integrating optimization techniques and a reservoir simulation model to obtain the optimal rule curves. By considering sedimentation and incorporating HR criteria, the selected engineering alternatives demonstrated their ability to minimize water shortage and excess water. This contributes to improved water resource management and decision-making in situations of scarcity and excess.
An Improved Flood Susceptibility Assessment in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Using Advanced Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Ghanim Abdulnoor A. J. , Shaf Ahmad , Ali Tariq , Zafar Maryam , Al-Areeq Ahmed M. , Alyami Saleh H. , Irfan Muhammad , Rahman Saifur
Published: July 2023

The city of Jeddah experienced a severe flood in 2020, resulting in loss of life and damage to property. In such scenarios, a flood forecasting model can play a crucial role in predicting flood events and minimizing their impact on communities. The proposed study aims to evaluate the performance of machine learning algorithms in predicting floods and non-flood regions, including Gradient Boosting, Extreme Gradient Boosting, AdaBoosting Gradient, Random Forest, and the Light Gradient Boosting Machine, using the dataset from Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia. This study identified fourteen continuous parameters and various classification variables to assess the correlation between these variables and flooding incidents in the analyzed region. The performance of the proposed algorithms was measured using classification matrices and regression matrices. The highest accuracy (86%) was achieved by the Random Forest classifier, and the lowest error rate (0.06) was found with the Gradient Boosting regressor machine. The performance of other algorithms was also exceptional compared to existing literature. The results of the study suggest that the application of these machine learning algorithms can significantly enhance flood prediction accuracy, enabling various industries and sectors to make more informed decisions.
Status of Research on Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Wastewater Collection Systems
Authors: Gu Dongmei , Liu Yiwen , Zhao Weigao , Qiu Shuntian , Cui Nuo , Hu Xinyue , Zhao Peng
Published: July 2023

Wastewater collection systems (WCSs) not only play an indispensable role in urban life but also significantly contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Based on extensive literature research, this study (1) summarizes current research on the production mechanisms, influencing factors, control techniques, and quantitative estimates of GHGs emitted from WCSs and (2) presents initial estimates of total GHG emissions from WCSs in China. A variety of factors affect GHG production, but standard methods are still lacking to quantify GHG emissions from WCSs. China’s WCSs emit approximately 3.86–15.35 Mt of CO2eq annually (equivalent to 5.1–20.2% of the GHG emissions from wastewater treatment). Thus, GHG emissions from WCSs are significant and deserve attention. Control of GHGs in WCSs can be achieved through the application of chemical agents, while the construction of a green stormwater infrastructure can further facilitate GHG reductions. This review provides valuable insights for policymakers to consider in future policy planning related to GHG reduction and the improved operation of WCSs. Future research should focus on quantifying the impacts of various factors and accumulating field data on GHGs in various regions to facilitate the development of standardized calculation methods.
Investigating the Change Pattern in Adsorption Properties of Soil Media for Non-Polar Organic Contaminants under the Impact of Freezing and Thawing
Authors: Huang Jingjing , Zhong Rong , Lyu Hang
Published: July 2023

The adsorption of petroleum hydrocarbons by soils in the unsaturated zone determines the amount that goes into the groundwater. However, the intricate behavior of petroleum hydrocarbon adsorption in soil media under the influence of freeze–thaw conditions in globally prevalent seasonally frozen regions remains unclear. Alkanes as a non-polar compound are an important part of petroleum hydrocarbons. We conducted field-scale seasonal freeze-thaw experiments using n-dodecane to quantify the dynamic patterns and influencing factors of the physicochemical properties of soil media and their adsorption capacity for petroleum hydrocarbons during different freeze–thaw cycles. Our findings demonstrated that, as the number of natural freeze–thaw cycles increased, the proportion of soil micro-agglomerates rose rapidly, thereby expanding the available adsorption sites and enhancing the adsorption capacity for non-polar organic pollutants. The rise in sorption capacity for the outdoor freeze–thaw experimental group surpassed that of the indoor room-temperature control group by an impressive 75.57%, showing the enhancement of the adsorption capacity for non-polar organic pollutants. Conversely, the decline in soil organic matter content during the later stages of the freeze–thaw process hampered its adsorption performance for non-polar organic pollutants. The decrease in sorption capacity for the outdoor freeze–thaw experimental group surpassed that of the indoor room temperature control group by 77.97%. By shedding light on the adsorption mechanisms of non-polar organic pollutants in soils subjected to freeze–thaw conditions, our research facilitated a comprehensive understanding and predictive modeling of this process. Furthermore, our study provided a scientific foundation for exploring the convergence and migration transformation patterns of other organic compounds in petroleum-contaminated areas within seasonally frozen regions.
Investigating Heterogeneous Consumer Preference for Sustainable Sewerage Asset Management: The Case of South Korea
Authors: Jo Hanseul , Park Soyeong , Shin Jungwoo
Published: July 2023

This study proposes a data-based strategy for prioritizing sewerage services and developing consumer-centric asset management systems. Sewerage systems are essential infrastructure, but resource-intensive, and governments have faced challenges due to limited budgets and aging facilities. Most countries are still in the early stages of adopting consumer-centric approaches. By using the mixed logit model, this study identified heterogeneous service preferences among consumers based on their priority for physical and social services. Groups who attributed their importance to physical services were more sensitive to sewerage bills; however, those who emphasized social services were more interested in water activity environment improvement and odor intensity reduction. This study also showed that people are willing to pay USD 10 for odor intensity reduction and USD 6 for water activities improvement on average, but those who prioritized sinkhole reduction and flood reduction answered less willingness to pay for each service improvement. Applying these heterogeneous service preferences to service improvement strategies can lead not only to higher consumer satisfaction and lower economic burden, but also to a deeper understanding of residents’ willingness to pay for service improvement in certain service preference areas. Therefore, the results contribute to the development of sustainable asset management strategies.
Evolution Characteristics of Rainfall and Runoff in the Upper Reaches of Zhang River Basin
Authors: Du Lijuan , Wang Guangyao , Lei Bo
Published: July 2023

It is of great significance to study and analyze the surface water resources and their change trend in the groundwater overexploitation area of the North China Plain, which is of great significance to solve the shortage of water resources in the groundwater overexploitation area of the North China Plain, promote the exploitation of groundwater, and realize the sustainable development of water resources. This paper takes Minyou Irrigation District of Handan City, a typical overexploitation area in the North China Plain, as an example. Based on the measured rainfall and runoff data from 1957 to 2020, the Mann–Kendall trend test, cumulative anomaly method, double cumulative curve method, and Morlet wavelet transform were used to analyze and predict the trend of water resources in the irrigation area and the individual contribution of climate change and human activities to runoff change. The results show that the annual rainfall and annual runoff in the irrigation area have a significant downward trend and significant cyclical changes throughout the study period. In 1977, the annual runoff showed a sudden change, and the average contribution rates of climate change and human activities to its change were 40.55% and 59.46%, respectively. In the future (2020–2035), runoff will remain stable and rainfall will show an increasing trend. The research results can provide scientific reference for the development, utilization, and rational allocation of surface water resources in the groundwater overexploitation area of the North China Plain.
Research on a Lightweight Panoramic Perception Algorithm for Electric Autonomous Mini-Buses
Authors: Liu Yulin , Li Gang , Hao Liguo , Yang Qiang , Zhang Dong
Published: July 2023

Autonomous mini-buses are low-cost passenger vehicles that travel along designated routes in industrial parks. In order to achieve this goal, it is necessary to implement functionalities such as lane-keeping and obstacle avoidance. To address the challenge of deploying deep learning algorithms to detect environmental information on low-performance computing units, which leads to difficulties in model deployment and the inability to meet real-time requirements, a lightweight algorithm called YOLOP-E based on the YOLOP algorithm is proposed. (The letter ‘E’ stands for EfficientNetV2, and YOLOP-E represents the optimization of the entire algorithm by replacing the backbone of the original model with EfficientNetV2.) The algorithm has been optimized and improved in terms of the following three aspects: Firstly, the YOLOP backbone network is reconstructed using the lightweight backbone network EfficientNet-V2, and depth-wise separable convolutions are used instead of regular convolutions. Secondly, a hybrid attention mechanism called CABM is employed to enhance the model’s feature-representation capability. Finally, the Focal EIoU and Smoothed Cross-Entropy loss functions are utilized to improve detection accuracy. YOLOP-E is the final result after the aforementioned optimizations are completed. Experimental results demonstrate that on the BDD100K dataset, the optimized algorithm achieves a 3.5% increase in mAP50 and a 4.1% increase in mIoU. During real-world vehicle testing, the detection rate reaches 41.6 FPS, achieving the visual perception requirements of the autonomous shuttle bus while maintaining a lightweight design and improving detection accuracy.
Notes on law: history and modernity (returning to some topics of the monograph “Philosophy of Law”)
Authors:   Institute of Philosophy of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Rozin V.M.
Published: July 2023

The author proceeds from the conviction that modern law is in crisis, therefore, along with an analysis of the relevant challenges and problems, he discusses legally significant features of modernity. The article discusses the formation of law in ancient culture, the formation of the European tradition of law in the Middle Ages, the peculiarities of understanding law in Russia, the need to study and reform law at the present time in the transition from modern to future culture.
Philosophy of meaning and conceptualization
Authors:   Independent Researcher, Lapina T.S.
Published: July 2023

Philosophy reveals the foundations of conceptualization as a generic form of spirituality, and philosophy itself is semantic. As an active state of the human spirit, conceptualization leads to development of semiotically shaped meanings, that is, the reduction of information to human and value dimensions, which is often expressed figuratively. The genesis of meanings has two opposite to each other beginnings — down-to-earth and sublime: a review of acquired experience and attribution to the sphere of due and ideas. One of the objects of philosophical reflection should be a phenomenon that can be called a semantic conversion of human existence, that is, virtual reconstruction in a semantic evaluative and instructive form of social, generational and personal and individual events, virtual humanization of the universe. Both the profitable and flawed sides of social evolution are recorded in meanings, characters are depicted in a semantic way, from which subjects learn lessons. Individuals live their own lives and virtually meaningfully can live the lives of other personalities. The human world is enriched with typical semantic realities. The main meaningful points of the philosophy of meaning are given at the end of the article.
Innovative methods of improving resource the worn-out equipment
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution ", Dunaev A. V. ,   Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM", Kostomakhin M. N. ,   Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM", Romanov I. V. ,   Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM"
Published: July 2023

Described innovative methods to increase the service life of worn mates the friction of machinery and equipment during their maintenance by introducing into the crankcase oil of mineral tribotechnical compounds and electrical charges from portable Converter to the electrical system of cars.
Testability of the drive shaft of the gearbox of tractors "Kirovets"
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution ", Petrishchev N. A. ,   Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM", Sayapin A. S. ,   Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM", Makarkin I. M. ,   Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM", Dankov A. A. ,   Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM", Ivleva I. B. ,   Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM"
Published: July 2023

The article presents the results of experimental modeling of additional equipment and means for monitoring the technical condition, increasing the level of testability and adaptability to diagnosing parts of the drive shaft of the Kirovets tractor gearbox in ordinary operation.
Analisis Pembaruan Hukum Zakat Di Dalam Undang-Undang Nomor 23 Tahun 2011 Tentang Pengelolaan Zakat
Authors: Alamudi Ichwan Ahnaz , Hasan Ahmadi
Published: July 2023

In the management of zakat is necessary for a clear legal umbrella in the form of regulations on zakat which is the foundation in the management of zakat. Along with the times, the existing regulations are sometimes considered no longer accommodate the issue of zakat management in the field, therefore the latest regulations on zakat management are needed. This study aims to try to discuss various legal updates regarding zakat, especially in zakat law. This study uses a juridical-normative approach, which is an approach based on legislation, theories, and concepts related to legal coverage of regulations in the field of zakat. The results showed that there are various regulations on zakat, ranging from ministerial regulations, presidential regulations, government regulations to laws.
Pandangan Hukum Islam terhadap Kasus Pembunuhan Bos Galon di Semarang
Authors: Nabilah Hasna Haifa , Syahidin Syahidin
Published: July 2023

Dalam perkembangannya, klasifikasi hukum terdiri dari berbagai jenis, salah satunya adalah hukum pidana. KUHP sebagai salah satu sub sistem hukum nasional yang merupakan sebuah aturan hukum yang diciptakan oleh manusia, sehingga terdapat kelemahan dalam proses penerapan atau penegakannya.  Berbeda halnya dalam perspektif islam, hukum pidana ini berasal dari ketentuan agama yang pada hakikatnya mengandung kemaslahatan bagi kehidupan manusia bagi di dunia maupun diakhirat. Dalam menjalani kehidupan tentunya manusia tidak selalu mengikuti norma yang ada, salah satunya adalah ketika mereka melakukan tindakan pembunuhan. Pembunuhan merupakan suatu tindakan yang sangat keji dan tidak manusiawi. Di Indonesia masih banyak kasus pembunuhan. Salah satunya adalah yang dilakukan oleh Husen yang membunuh bosnya di Semarang. Penelitian ini dituangkan dengan metode kualitatif dengan menggunakan teknik studi pustaka. Setelah melakukan penelitian kami dapat menyimpulkan bahwa pembunuhan yang dilakukan oleh Husen adalah pembunuhan sengaja. Dalam proses penyelidikan yang masih berlangsung Husen  terkena pasal 340 KUHP tentang pembunuhan berencana, dan bisa dipenjara hingga 20 tahun, penjara seumur hidup, atau hukuman mati. Namun dalam perspektif Islam seharusnya Husen mendapatkan hukuman yang setimpal yaitu hukuman mati.