bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil Contamination by Heavy Metals and Radionuclides and Related Bioremediation Techniques: A Review
Authors: Chernysh Yelizaveta , Chubur Viktoriia , Ablieieva Iryna , Skvortsova Polina , Yakhnenko Olena , Skydanenko Maksym , Plyatsuk Leonid , Roubík Hynek
Published: March 2024

The migration of heavy metals and radionuclides is interrelated, and this study focusses on the interaction and complex influence of various toxicants. The rehabilitation of radioactively contaminated territories has a complex character and is based on scientifically supported measures to restore industrial, economic, and sociopsychological relations. We aim for the achievement of pre-emergency levels of hygienic norms of radioactive contamination of output products. This, in its sum, allows for further economic activity in these territories without restrictions on the basis of natural actions of autoremediation. Biosorption technologies based on bacterial biomass remain a promising direction for the remediation of soils contaminated with radionuclides and heavy metals that help immobilise and consolidate contaminants. A comprehensive understanding of the biosorption capacity of various preparations allows for the selection of more effective techniques for the elimination of contaminants, as well as the overcoming of differences between laboratory results and industrial use. Observation and monitoring make it possible to evaluate the migration process of heavy metals and radionuclides and identify regions with a disturbed balance of harmful substances. The promising direction of the soil application of phosphogypsum, a by-product of the chemical industry, in bioremediation processes is considered.
Soil-Forming Factors of High-Elevation Mountains along the East African Rift Valley: The Case of the Mount Guna Volcano, Ethiopia
Authors: Sisay Mekonnen Getahun , Tsegaye Enyew Adgo , Tolossa Alemayehu Regassa , Nyssen Jan , Frankl Amaury , Van Ranst Eric , Dondeyne Stefaan
Published: March 2024

The soils of the high-elevation mountains along the East African Rift Valley are poorly understood. Assessing the potential of soils for agriculture, climate change mitigation, and environmental functioning requires insight into how they relate to the factors influencing soil formation. Between 3000 and 4120 m a.s.l., 85 soil profiles of Mount Guna were described and sampled. Standard physicochemical analyses were done on all pedons. Additionally, X-ray diffraction, Alox and Feox content, and P fixation were performed on six selected profiles. Soils on Mount Guna included Andosols, Phaeozems, Leptosols, Regosols, Cambisols, Luvisols, and Vertisols. With increasing elevation, clay content, bulk density, and pH decreased while the C:N ratio remained constant. In contrast, sand, silt, silt-to-clay ratio, SOC, Ntotal, and SOCS increased. With a factor analysis, the soil-forming factors’ elevation/climate could be disentangled from the factor’s parent material as these affect topsoil and subsoil differently. In the ordination based on climate/elevation and parent material, Andosols and Vertisols stood out while other Reference Soil Groups (RSG) showed indistinct patterns. Soil erosion appeared as an additional soil-forming factor not accounted for by the factor analysis. The distribution of the RSG was significantly associated with elevation belts (p < 0.001), lithology (p < 0.001), and landcover (p < 0.003). On the summital ridge, the Andosols were crucial for groundwater storage due to high precipitation. Shallow and stony soils in the mid-elevation belt contributed to runoff generation. Average soil carbon stock ranged from 8.1 to 11 kg C m−2 in the topsoil and from 29.2 to 31.9 kg C m−2 in the upper meter, emphasizing the global importance of high-elevation areas for carbon sequestration.
Predictability and Complexity of Fine and Gross Motor Skills in Fibromyalgia Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Brígida Nancy , Catela David , Mercê Cristiana , Branco Marco
Published: March 2024

Background: Fine and gross motor tasks are usually used to evaluate behavioral dysfunctions and can be applied to diseases of the central nervous system, such as fibromyalgia (FM). Non-linear measures have allowed for deeper motor control analysis, focusing on the process and on the quality of movement. Therefore, to assess uncertainty, irregularity, and structural richness of a time series, different algorithms of entropy can be computed. The aim of this study was to (i) verify the single-scale and multiscale entropy values in fine and gross motor movements and (ii) to verify whether fine and gross motor tasks are sensitive to characterizing FM patients. Methods: The sample consisted of 20 females (46.2 ± 12.8 years) divided in two groups, an experimental group with 10 FM subjects and a control group with 10 subjects without FM. Inertial sensors were used to collect the finger tapping test (FTT), walking, and sit-and-stand task data. Results: Regarding fine motor skills, patients with FM showed a loss of structural richness (complexity), but they had information processing with greater control in the FTT, probably to simplify task execution and for correction of the movement. On the other hand, people without FM seemed to have more automatic control of the movement when performed with the preferred hand and exhibited similar difficulties to the FM group when performed with the non-preferred hand. Gross motor tasks showed similar entropy values for both groups. Conclusions: The results show that FM patients have movement controls primarily at the level of the motor cortex, whereas people without FM perform movement at the medullary level, especially in fine motor tasks, indicating that the FTT is sensitive to the presence of FM, especially when performed with the preferred hand.
The Relationship of Corporate Social Responsibility with Business Performance—A Bibliometric Literature Review
Authors: Dzage Emmanuel Jeffrey , Szabados György Norbert
Published: March 2024

The significant role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in achieving sustainability and in meeting the expectations of stakeholders has been well documented. Using a collection of 2173 publications on CSR and its connections with business performance, this study conducted a bibliometric investigation using the Systematic Literature Network Analysis (SLNA) technique combined with network visualizations to demonstrate the current research trends, most topical themes and the developing areas of interest in the growing field of CSR and its linkages with business performance for an approximate period from 2004 to 2023 as published in the Scopus database of two decades. The goal was to explore the research gaps by analyzing the most cited authors and most impactful publications by year, location, subject area and document type. The study also outlined the trends by topic prevalence, commonly used keywords and citation networks based on co-occurrence and co-authorship to identify the current thematic gaps. The results reveal a mild rate of growth in scholarly interest around the field of CSR and business performance until 2022, where a manifold increase in publications was recorded. An expanding focus on human, social and organizational behavior, economic systems, financial and social performance, leadership, stakeholder management and management science was identified, although there is a scarcity of studies around issues regarding developing countries, climate change, CSR disclosure and small businesses. These findings demonstrate the current state of the research and offer interesting insights and timely research directions as a roadmap for future studies.
Tourist Itineraries, Food, and Rural Development: A Critical Understanding of Rural Policy Performance in Northeast Italy
Authors: Rizzo Luca Simone , Rizzo Raffaela Gabriella , Trabuio Antonella
Published: March 2024

The tourist itinerary concept refers to initiatives combining activities/attractions under a theme and stimulating business opportunities by developing products and services, in accordance with the cultural context and the interaction with the territory. Rural Development Policy serves as example. While not intended to promote tourism directly, it encourages the creation/rediscovery of tourist itineraries, including those that are food-related. We undertook a case study in northeastern Italy. Using a mixed research method, we aimed to appreciate the role played, within the EU Rural Development Programme of the Veneto region, by tourism and the tourist itinerary as a tool for territorial and traditional foods valorisation. Our first objective was to identify the correlations between the choice of certain types of tourism interventions and the territorial characterization by tourism. Through a correspondence statistical analysis, two analyses on the funding beneficiaries were carried out in particular on the period 2014–2020, depending on whether the issuing organization was the Veneto Region or a Local Action Group. The types of intervention on information and infrastructures for tourism, as well as on the redevelopment of cultural heritage, emerged of interest, in particular to public entities. Focusing on the LEADER areas, we examined, through semi-structured interviews, critical issues associated with the implementation of the Policy to grasp the degree of incisiveness of the examined Measures which place the tourist itinerary at the centre of the rural development. Our work shows that in the territories analysed, tourism is a driving force. There emerges, though, a need to refocus the Measures. This is to ensure that their effects are more durable, that eligible actors are more involved, and that there is less strategic redundancy in relation to other policies.
Advances in the Integration of Sustainable Drainage Systems into Urban Planning: A Case Study
Authors: Rodríguez-Rojas María I. , Garrido-Jiménez Francisco Javier , Abarca-Álvarez Francisco Javier , Vallecillos-Siles Manuel Ricardo
Published: March 2024

Climate change is arguably the greatest challenge facing cities today. Its severe consequences have created the need for sustainable urban planning. In this regard, Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) have contributed in recent years to alleviating environmental problems caused by soil sealing and enhancing the resilience of cities to climate change. However, in most cases, the level of implementation is limited to solving environmental problems caused by inadequate urban planning. To change this, in recent years some countries have proposed recommendations to integrate these systems into their urban planning regulations, but these have been general and have not defined specific measures. This paper proposes to achieve this goal by using case studies of three countries with similar characteristics (Spain, Italy and France). A common framework for the integration of SuDS in planning has been proposed that can be exported to other similar places. The urban scales of intervention have been defined (city, neighborhood and street), as well as the actions to be carried out (analysis, planning and regulatory measures) and the urban plans to which they should be applied. This proposal represents an advancement in the application of SuDS as a primary control measure. This breakthrough will significantly improve the resilience of the cities of the future, making them more resilient to the effects of weather and climate change.
Prospects for the Development of Vehicle Assembly Plants of Chinese Automobile Brands in Kazakhstan: An Example of Multi-Sectoral Diversification of the Economy to Increase Its Sustainability
Authors: Serikkaliyeva Azhar , Makarova Irina , Gabsalikhova Larisa
Published: March 2024

This article discusses the problems that arise and must be resolved in order to ensure the efficiency and sustainability of Chinese-brand automobile assembly in Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan is shown as a model of an oil-driven economy seeking industrial modernization and the most dynamic car assembly case in Central Asia in the past 5 years. Since the automotive industry development strategies in different countries have various specific characteristics and provide an overview of the main global and regional trends in the development of the automotive industry, the problems of industry development also leverage the accumulated experiences of different countries where government initiatives have fostered the growth of their domestic automotive industry. Although we use standard and well-proven methods of analysis, planning, and forecasting, the novelty of the approach lies in the fact that any new company entering the market and opening a new production facility should focus on maintaining the sustainability of the country’s automotive industry within the framework of the adopted industry development strategy. We have developed such an algorithm for planning a strategy. The blend of traditional methodologies and their adaptation makes the suggested methodology new. We also considered the fact that, due to a lack of knowledge, there are significant challenges when determining whether localizing automobile components is feasible. An assessment of the prospects for the automotive industry in Kazakhstan based on data from open sourcesmade it possible to develop options for possible strategies from which the most appropriate one can be selected. The conclusion chapter presents findings, limitations of the study, and directions for future research. The use of this approach allows for considering the interplay of the factors at the stage of an industry development strategy emerging and establishing long-term plans that take into account the specific characteristics of Kazakhstan’s development.
Research Trends in the Use of the Internet of Things in Sustainability Practices: A Systematic Review
Authors: Valencia-Arias Alejandro , Ramírez Dávila Juana , Londoño-Celis Wilmer , Palacios-Moya Lucia , Hernández Julio Leyrer , Agudelo-Ceballos Erica , Uribe-Bedoya Hernán
Published: March 2024

This article discusses the role of technological advancements, particularly in the IoT domain, in promoting economic, productive, and social development in the context of environmental sustainability. The research focuses on identifying specific trends in the application of these systems for sustainable practices through a bibliometric analysis using PRISMA. The text presents an evaluation of global scientific productivity, highlighting the significant contributions of countries such as China and the United States. It also emphasizes India’s prominent role in the efficiency of the agri-food supply chain. The study further examines thematic evolution, keyword networks, and their co-occurrence, as well as the relationship between validity and frequency. The article proposes a research agenda that concludes the exponential growth of IoT research in sustainable cities since 2016. The research agenda focuses on energy efficiency, cloud computing, and big data. Additionally, the article identifies smart cities and sensor usage, along with the creation of new decentralized networks, as priority research areas that will remain relevant in the future. The article emphasizes the importance of security and privacy in these areas.
Impact of Green Infrastructure Investment on Urban Carbon Emissions in China
Authors: Sang Jinhui , Pan Lingying
Published: March 2024

Given the increasingly severe global climate change, the reduction in urban greenhouse gas emissions has become the common goal of all nations. As a widely concerned sustainable development strategy, green infrastructure investment (GII) aims to reduce urban carbon emissions, improve the efficiency of resource utilization, and improve environmental quality. However, the construction cycle of green infrastructure is long, and the construction process itself may produce carbon emissions; so, the final effect of GII on urban carbon emissions is unclear, which deserves our in-depth study. Further, is this effect having a time-lag effect? Is there only a simple linear relationship between GII and urban carbon emissions? Based on panel data from 235 Chinese cities from 2006 to 2019, this study conducted an econometric regression analysis using time-lag-effect and threshold-effect models. The results showed the following: (1) GII had a negative inhibitory effect on urban CO2 emissions. Adding one unit to the GII could reduce urban CO2 emissions by 0.032 units. (2) GII exhibited a time-lag effect on urban CO2 emissions, and the greatest reduction in CO2 emissions occurred in the third lag period. (3) GII had a threshold effect on urban CO2 emissions based on technological progress (TP). This paper used the static and dynamic panel threshold models to research separately, and obtained the corresponding regression results. In the static panel, the double threshold values for TP were 3.9120 and 6.8035. At different TP levels, GII had an inhibitory effect on CO2 emissions, but the coefficients were different. However, in the dynamic panel, the threshold value was 3.666. The threshold changed over time and the effect of GII on CO2 emissions shifted from facilitation to inhibition.
Biofuel in the Automotive Sector: Viability of Sugarcane Ethanol
Authors: Marques Julio Cesar , Gasi Fernando , Lourenço Sergio Ricardo
Published: March 2024

In Brazil, sugarcane ethanol competes directly with gasoline as a fuel for motor vehicles, emerging as a challenging biofuel to traditional fossil fuels. The problem this article solves and presents is the Return on Energy Investment (EROI) for the production cycle of first-generation ethanol derived from sugarcane in the central-southern region of Brazil, with the main objective to compare this EROI with the gasoline marketed in Brazil, as documented in the scientific literature. The methodology for the energy analysis of the ethanol production cycle is the ratio between the energy present in a quantity of sugarcane delivered for processing and the energy consumption required for the entire process. This analysis occurs from the agricultural phase through the distribution phase of ethanol for consumption, enabling the calculation of the EROI of sugarcane ethanol and a comparative assessment with the EROI values of the gasoline marketed in Brazil. The results for EROI of sugarcane ethanol fluctuate between 8.20 and 6.52. Therefore, for each unit of energy utilized in processing ethanol, 6.52 to 8.20 units of energy are available for end use. In contrast, the EROI values for gasoline range between 2.34 and 5.50, underscoring the competitive advantage of ethanol in this context.
Perception of Public Policies and Sustainability among Agricultural Producers in the Municipality of Guasave
Authors: Cuadras-Berrelleza Aldo Alan , Peinado-Guevara Héctor José , Moreno-López Esteban Otoniel , Beltrán-Lúgo Lizbeth , Peinado-Guevara Víctor Manuel
Published: March 2024

The agricultural sector of Sinaloa is one of the most representative in Mexico. Its economic and social contributions are of great magnitude, as is its scale of production and the social impacts it generates. The objective was to study the perception of maize farmers in the municipality of Guasave on agricultural public policies and their impact on sustainable results in the sector. The methodology was quantitative-descriptive and cross-sectional. A sample of 260 farmers was analysed out of a study population of 18,650, to whom a survey was applied using the Likert scale. The internal consistency of the instrument was validated using the McDonald omega test, giving a (ω) of 0.868, considered reliable. Kendall’s Tau-c was used to find the relationship between the category and its respective subcategories. The results showed statistically significant correlations (Sig < 5%) that were greater than 0.7, so it was considered that the category “Public policies and sustainable development” showed a strong correlation with the subcategories “Governance and agricultural sustainability” and “Public policies in agriculture”. The results indicate that there is a need for greater attention to public policies, from their design to implementation. Agricultural activity has had a negative impact on a sustainable environment due to the current production methods. It is considered that to achieve significant progress in this sector, studies are needed to help detect and correct these problems and encourage greater participation of the actors in the sector in their work through training and the dissemination of sustainable practices.
Paperless Technologies in Universities: Examination in Terms of Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT)
Authors: Tatlı Hasan Sadık , Bıyıkbeyi Tuba , Gençer Çelik Gülşah , Öngel Gökten
Published: March 2024

This study aims to determine the factors affecting the use of paperless technologies by university office staff and academicians. The study sample comprised 726 academics and administrative staff from 10 public and 3 foundation higher education institutions in Turkey. Care was taken to ensure that the selected universities had switched to paperless processes or that work was largely conducted through digital tools. When the path analysis results were examined, it was determined that performance expectation, effort expectation, and social impact positively affected the intention to use paperless technologies. In addition, intent to use has a mediating role on the effect of social influence, effort expectation, and performance expectation on actual usage of paperless technologies. Our hypotheses were supported. According to the research results, social impact, effort to be spent, and the performance of paperless technologies effectively encourage academic and administrative staff at universities to use paperless technologies.
Harmonizing Pedagogy and Technology: Insights into Teaching Approaches That Foster Sustainable Motivation and Efficiency in Blended Learning
Authors: Radovan Marko , Radovan Danijela Makovec
Published: March 2024

This study aims to investigate the impact of blended learning strategies on various student outcomes in Vocational Education and Training (VET) contexts, addressing gaps in the existing literature and informing the refinement of blended learning approaches to enhance educational experiences. The main goal of the study was to explore the impact of teaching approaches used on student attitudes, satisfaction, motivation, and the workload of VET students. Data were collected from 106 students across seven VET programs through an online survey. The findings reveal that collaborative learning significantly enhances student engagement and satisfaction, while the integration of technology in blended learning environments improves educational experiences. However, challenges such as perceived overload are acknowledged. The study also highlights the critical role of assessment and feedback in fostering student satisfaction and competence. Based on these results, the study recommends enhancing collaborative learning through strategic support for diversity and technology integration and optimizing assessment and feedback mechanisms to improve engagement and reduce stress. These recommendations aim to refine blended learning strategies in VET, contributing to better educational outcomes and addressing the identified gaps in the literature.
The Multifaceted Perspective on the Role of Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles in Promoting a Sustainable Green Economy
Authors: Sah Manish Kumar , Thakuri Biraj Shah , Pant Jyoti , Gardas Ramesh L. , Bhattarai Ajaya
Published: March 2024

The current economic development paradigm, which is based on steadily rising resource consumption and pollution emissions, is no longer viable in a world with limited resources and ecological capacity. The “green economy” idea has presented this context with a chance to alter how society handles the interplay between the environmental and economic spheres. The related concept of “green nanotechnology” aims to use nano-innovations within the fields of materials science and engineering to generate products and processes that are economically and ecologically sustainable, enabling society to establish and preserve a green economy. Many different economic sectors are anticipated to be impacted by these applications, including those related to corrosion inhibitor nanofertilizers, nanoremediation, biodegradation, heavy metal detection, biofuel, insecticides and pesticides, and catalytic CO2 reduction. These innovations might make it possible to use non-traditional water sources safely and to create construction materials that are enabled by nanotechnology, improving living and ecological conditions. Therefore, our aim is to highlight how nanotechnology is being used in the green economy and to present promises for nano-applications in this domain. In the end, it emphasizes how critical it is to attain a truly sustainable advancement in nanotechnology.
Load Calculation Method for Deep-Buried Layered Soft Rock Tunnel Based on Back-Analysis of Structural Deformation
Authors: Zhang Lixin , Chen Lijun , Chen Jianxun , Luo Yanbin , Guo Huijie , Zhai Yang , Wang Pengkun
Published: March 2024

After the excavation and unloading of deep-buried soft rock tunnels, support structures often experience deformation-related disasters such as concrete cracking, steel frame bending and twisting, and primary support instability under different forms of load. Accurately calculating the load borne by the primary support structure is the key to ensuring design rationality and construction safety. Especially in layered soft surrounding rock formations, the magnitude and distribution of the loads are different from those of conventional rock and soil masses, resulting in limited applicability of existing load calculation methods to similar formations. Therefore, based on the measured deformation of the tunnel structure, while considering the different geometric forms of the primary support structure during partial excavation, this paper proposes a deformation-structure (D-S) load calculation method. By comparing the calculation results of this method and a large number of sample data for typical deep-buried layered soft rock tunnels, the reliability of the D-S load calculation method is verified. In addition, the variation law of the loads during the tunnel construction period is enunciated, and the magnitude and distribution of the loads acting on the primary support are clarified. The D-S load calculation method provides a theoretical basis for load calculation in deep-buried layered soft rock tunnels.
Stability Analysis of Milling Based on the Barycentric Rational Interpolation Differential Quadrature Method
Authors: Mei Yonggang , He Bingbing , He Shangwen , Ren Xin , Zhang Zeqi
Published: March 2024

Chatter causes great damage to the machining process, and the selection of appropriate process parameters through chatter stability analysis is of great significance for achieving chatter-free machining. This article proposes a milling stability analysis method based on the barycentric rational interpolation differential quadrature method (DQM). The dynamics of the milling process considering the regeneration effect is first modelled as a time-delay differential equation (DDE). When adjacent pitch angles of the milling cutter are symmetric, the milling dynamic equation contains a single time delay. Otherwise, when adjacent pitch angles are asymmetric, the dynamic equation contains multiple time delays. The barycentric rational interpolation DQM is then used to approximate the differential and delay terms of the milling dynamics equation, and to construct a state transition matrix between adjacent milling periods. Finally, the chatter stability lobe diagram (SLD) is obtained based on the Floquet theory. According to the SLD, the appropriate spindle speed can be selected to obtain the maximum stable axial depth of cutting, thereby effectively improving the material removal rate. The accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method have been validated by two widely used milling models, and the results show that the proposed method has good accuracy and computational efficiency.
Estimation of Multiresponse Multipredictor Nonparametric Regression Model Using Mixed Estimator
Authors: Chamidah Nur , Lestari Budi , Budiantara I Nyoman , Aydin Dursun
Published: March 2024

In data analysis using a nonparametric regression approach, we are often faced with the problem of analyzing a set of data that has mixed patterns, namely, some of the data have a certain pattern and the rest of the data have a different pattern. To handle this kind of datum, we propose the use of a mixed estimator. In this study, we theoretically discuss a developed estimation method for a nonparametric regression model with two or more response variables and predictor variables, and there is a correlation between the response variables using a mixed estimator. The model is called the multiresponse multipredictor nonparametric regression (MMNR) model. The mixed estimator used for estimating the MMNR model is a mixed estimator of smoothing spline and Fourier series that is suitable for analyzing data with patterns that partly change at certain subintervals, and some others that follow a recurring pattern in a certain trend. Since in the MMNR model there is a correlation between responses, a symmetric weight matrix is involved in the estimation process of the MMNR model. To estimate the MMNR model, we apply the reproducing kernel Hilbert space (RKHS) method to penalized weighted least square (PWLS) optimization for estimating the regression function of the MMNR model, which consists of a smoothing spline component and a Fourier series component. A simulation study to show the performance of proposed method is also given. The obtained results are estimations of the smoothing spline component, Fourier series component, MMNR model, weight matrix, and consistency of estimated regression function. In conclusion, the estimation of the MMNR model using the mixed estimator is a combination of smoothing spline component and Fourier series component estimators. It depends on smoothing and oscillation parameters, and it has linear in observation and consistent properties.
Forecasting Research on Urban Green Development Based on System Dynamics—A Case Study of Hefei in China
Authors: Feng Yanling , Liu Boqiang , Yan Qiang , Jia Guozhu
Published: March 2024

Urban green development is a way of economic growth and social development aiming at efficiency, harmony and sustainability, and in recent years urban green development has become an important trend for future urban development. In this study, Hefei City is selected as the study area, and a comprehensive green-development model is constructed by applying the system dynamics method, which integrates five important subsystems, namely, economy, environment, people’s livelihood, S and T and resources. Through simulation analysis, this study reveals the dynamic trend of green development in Hefei City. The analysis results show that economic growth provides the foundation for green development, scientific and technological innovation promotes the development of green technology, and that sustained investments in people’s livelihoods and environmental protection improves people’s quality of life and a city’s eco-friendliness. This study aims to promote the coordinated economic, social and environmental development of Hefei to ensure that Hefei is steadily moving towards high-quality and sustainable development goals; it effectively reveals the current situation, forecasts the trend of green development in Hefei, and also provides a reference for the urban green development of other cities.
Anatomy of Maxillary Sinus: Focus on Vascularization and Underwood Septa via 3D Imaging
Authors: Bernardi Sara , Bianchi Serena , Gerardi Davide , Petrelli Pierpaolo , Rinaldi Fabiola , Piattelli Maurizio , Macchiarelli Guido , Varvara Giuseppe
Published: March 2024

The study of the maxillary sinus anatomy should consider the presence of two features of clinical importance. The arterial supply course and the presence of the so-called Underwood septa are two important factors to consider when planning surgical treatment to reduce the risk of surgical complications such as excessive bleeding and Schneiderian membrane perforations. This study aimed to investigate the above-mentioned anatomical structures to improve the management of eventual vascular and surgical complications in this area. This study included a total of 200 cone-beam computed topographies (CBCTs) divided into two groups of 100 CBCTs to evaluate the arterial supply (AAa) course through the lateral sinus wall and Underwood’s septa, respectively. The main parameters considered on 3D imaging were the presence of the AAa in the antral wall, the length of the arterial pathway, the height of the maxillary bone crest, the branch sizes of the artery in the first group, and the position of the septa, the length of the septa, and their gender associations in the second group. The CBCT analysis showed the presence of the arterial supply through the bone wall in 100% of the examined patients, with an average size of 1.07 mm. With regard to the septa, 19% of patients presented variations, and no gender difference was found to be statistically significant. The findings add to the current understanding of the clinical structure of the maxillary sinus, equipping medical professionals with vital details for surgical preparation and prevention of possible complications.
Chronological Course and Clinical Features after Denver Peritoneovenous Shunt Placement in Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Koyama Shingo , Nogami Asako , Yoneda Masato , Cheng Shihyao , Koike Yuya , Takeuchi Yuka , Iwaki Michihiro , Kobayashi Takashi , Saito Satoru , Utsunomiya Daisuke , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: March 2024

Background: Refractory ascites affects the prognosis and quality of life in patients with liver cirrhosis. Peritoneovenous shunt (PVS) is a treatment procedure of palliative interventional radiology for refractory ascites. Although it is reportedly associated with serious complications (e.g., heart failure, thrombotic disease), the clinical course of PVS has not been thoroughly evaluated. Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between chronological course and complications after PVS for refractory ascites in liver cirrhosis patients. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of 14 patients with refractory ascites associated with decompensated cirrhosis who underwent PVS placement between June 2011 and June 2023. The clinical characteristics, changes in cardiothoracic ratio (CTR), and laboratory data (i.e., brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), D-dimer, platelet) were evaluated. Follow-up CT images in eight patients were also evaluated for ascites and complications. Results: No serious complication associated with the procedure occurred in any case. Transient increases in BNP and D-dimer levels, decreased platelet counts, and the worsening of CTR were observed in the 2 days after PVS; however, they were improved in 7 days in all cases except one. In the follow-up CT, the amount of ascites decreased in all patients, but one patient with a continuous increase in D-dimer 2 and 7 days after PVS had thrombotic disease (renal and splenic infarction). The mean PVS patency was 345.4 days, and the median survival after PVS placement was 474.4 days. Conclusions: PVS placement for refractory ascites is a technically feasible palliative therapy. The combined evaluation of chronological changes in BNP, D-dimer, platelet count and CTR, and follow-up CT images may be useful for the early prediction of the efficacy and complications of PVS.
White Stork Pellets: Non-Invasive Solution to Monitor Anthropogenic Particle Pollution
Authors: Bjedov Dora , Mikuška Alma , Gvozdić Vlatka , Glavaš Petar , Gradečak Dora , Sudarić Bogojević Mirta
Published: March 2024

The present study applied a non-invasive method to analyse anthropogenic particles and prey items in white stork (Ciconia ciconia) pellets. Pellets (n = 20) were obtained from white stork nests during the 2020 breeding season from two sites in Croatia. In total, 7869 anthropogenic particles were isolated. The majority of particles were fragments, while previous studies on other birds often reported fibres. An ATR–FTIR polymer analysis detected glass and construction and building materials, as well as several compounds associated with plastic masses. Polymer investigation revealed the presence of dotriacontane and octacosane, which are by-products of polyethylene (PE) degradation and transformation. Additionally, the detection of vinylidene chloride (VDC) highlights the historical contribution of polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) to plastic pollution. Significant variation in particle quantity and size between the sampling sites was detected, with larger particles found at sites associated with the metal mechanical engineering industry and agriculture. Prey assessment revealed chitin remains of large insects such as Orthoptera and Coleoptera. This research confirms the potential of pellet analysis as a valuable tool for assessing the presence of anthropogenic particles in the environment. However, further research is needed to fully understand the extent of particle ingestion, particle sources and potential impact.
New Perspectives on the Risks of Hydroxylated Polychlorinated Biphenyl (OH-PCB) Exposure: Intestinal Flora α-Glucosidase Inhibition
Authors: Qin Guoqiang , Jia Ruoyong , Xue Juntang , Chen Li , Li Yang , Luo Weiming , Wu Xiaomin , An Tianfeng , Fang Zhongze
Published: March 2024

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of colorless and odorless environmental pollutants with a wide range of toxic effects. Some PCBs, especially less chlorinated ones, will rapidly undergo phase I metabolism after entering the body, and hydroxylated polychlorinated biphenyls (OH-PCBs) are the main metabolites of PCBs. Intestinal flora α-glucosidase is a common carbohydrate-active enzyme which is ubiquitous in human intestinal flora. It can convert complex dietary polysaccharides into monosaccharides, assisting the body in degrading complex carbohydrates and providing energy for the survival and growth of bacterial flora. The present study aims to investigate the inhibition of the activity of intestinal flora α-glucosidase by OH-PCBs. 4-Nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside (PNPG) was used as a probe substrate for α-glucosidase, and in vitro incubation experiments were conducted to study the inhibition of 26 representative OH-PCBs on α-glucosidase. Preliminary screening of in vitro incubation was performed with 100 μM of OH-PCBs. The results showed that 26 OH-PCBs generally exhibited strong inhibition of α-glucosidase. The concentration-dependent inhibition and half inhibition concentrations (IC50s) of OH-PCBs on α-glucosidase were determined. 4′-OH-PCB 86 and 4′-OH-PCB 106 were chosen as representative OH-PCBs, and the inhibition kinetic parameters (Kis) of inhibitors for α-glucosidase were determined. The inhibition kinetic parameters (Kis) of 4′-OH-PCB 86 and 4′-OH-PCB 106 for α-glucosidase are 1.007 μM and 0.538 μM, respectively. The silico docking method was used to further analyze the interaction mechanism between OH-PCBs and α-glucosidase. All these results will help us to understand the risks of OH-PCB exposure from a new perspective.
Municipal Territoriality: The Impact of Centralized Mechanisms and Political and Structural Factors on Reducing Spatial Inequality
Authors: Beeri Itai , Aharon Gutman Meirav , Luzer Jonathan
Published: March 2024

We explore two complementary mechanisms that are designed to work together to reduce spatial inequality—redrawing municipal borders and the redistribution of tax resources. This study’s methodology is based on the empirical analysis of 376 decisions of boundary commissions and permanent geographic commissions that resulted in land transfers and redistributed tax resources in Israel. Our findings indicate that the impact on spatial inequality is mixed. Over time, the amount of land transferred to low socio-economic municipalities has increased, provided that these municipalities are located in the center of the country, or have a Jewish ethnic majority, are politically affiliated with the Minister of the Interior and the ultra-Orthodox right, are financially sound, and have a large population and a large area. In contrast, the redistribution of tax resources provides revenue increases for low socio-economic municipalities that are in the periphery, largely populated by Arabs, are unaffiliated with powerful politicians, are financially weak and small in size and population.
A Variety of Mouse PYHIN Proteins Restrict Murine and Human Retroviruses
Authors: Erdemci-Evin Sümeyye , Bosso Matteo , Krchlikova Veronika , Bayer Wibke , Regensburger Kerstin , Mayer Martha , Dittmer Ulf , Sauter Daniel , Kmiec Dorota , Kirchhoff Frank
Published: March 2024

PYHIN proteins are only found in mammals and play key roles in the defense against bacterial and viral pathogens. The corresponding gene locus shows variable deletion and expansion ranging from 0 genes in bats, over 1 in cows, and 4 in humans to a maximum of 13 in mice. While initially thought to act as cytosolic immune sensors that recognize foreign DNA, increasing evidence suggests that PYHIN proteins also inhibit viral pathogens by more direct mechanisms. Here, we examined the ability of all 13 murine PYHIN proteins to inhibit HIV-1 and murine leukemia virus (MLV). We show that overexpression of p203, p204, p205, p208, p209, p210, p211, and p212 strongly inhibits production of infectious HIV-1; p202, p207, and p213 had no significant effects, while p206 and p214 showed intermediate phenotypes. The inhibitory effects on infectious HIV-1 production correlated significantly with the suppression of reporter gene expression by a proviral Moloney MLV-eGFP construct and HIV-1 and Friend MLV LTR luciferase reporter constructs. Altogether, our data show that the antiretroviral activity of PYHIN proteins is conserved between men and mice and further support the key role of nuclear PYHIN proteins in innate antiviral immunity.
Human Papillomavirus-Induced Chromosomal Instability and Aneuploidy in Squamous Cell Cancers
Authors: Mallick Samyukta , Choi Yeseo , Taylor Alison M. , Cosper Pippa F.
Published: March 2024

Chromosomal instability (CIN) and aneuploidy are hallmarks of cancer. CIN is defined as a continuous rate of chromosome missegregation events over the course of multiple cell divisions. CIN causes aneuploidy, a state of abnormal chromosome content differing from a multiple of the haploid. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a well-known cause of squamous cancers of the oropharynx, cervix, and anus. The HPV E6 and E7 oncogenes have well-known roles in carcinogenesis, but additional genomic events, such as CIN and aneuploidy, are often required for tumor formation. HPV+ squamous cancers have an increased frequency of specific types of CIN, including polar chromosomes. CIN leads to chromosome gains and losses (aneuploidies) specific to HPV+ cancers, which are distinct from HPV− cancers. HPV-specific CIN and aneuploidy may have implications for prognosis and therapeutic response and may provide insight into novel therapeutic vulnerabilities. Here, we review HPV-specific types of CIN and patterns of aneuploidy in squamous cancers, as well as how this impacts patient prognosis and treatment.
Production of Promising Heat-Labile Enterotoxin (LT) B Subunit-Based Self-Assembled Bioconjugate Nanovaccines against Infectious Diseases
Authors: Li Caixia , Li Juntao , Sun Peng , Li Ting , Yan Xue , Ye Jingqin , Wu Jun , Zhu Li , Wang Hengliang , Pan Chao
Published: March 2024

Nanoparticles (NPs) have been widely utilized in vaccine design. Although numerous NPs have been explored, NPs with adjuvant effects on their own have rarely been reported. We produce a promising self-assembled NP by integrating the pentameric Escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin B subunit (LTB) (studied as a vaccine adjuvant) with a trimer-forming peptide. This fusion protein can self-assemble into the NP during expression, and polysaccharide antigens (OPS) are then loaded in vivo using glycosylation. We initially produced two Salmonella paratyphi A conjugate nanovaccines using two LTB subfamilies (LTIB and LTIIbB). After confirming their biosafety in mice, the data showed that both nanovaccines (NP(LTIB)-OPSSPA and NP(LTIIbB)-OPSSPA) elicited strong polysaccharide-specific antibody responses, and NP(LTIB)-OPS resulted in better protection. Furthermore, polysaccharides derived from Shigella or Klebsiella pneumoniae were loaded onto NP(LTIB) and NP(LTIIbB). The animal experimental results indicated that LTIB, as a pentamer module, exhibited excellent protection against lethal infections. This effect was also consistent with that of the reported cholera toxin B subunit (CTB) modular NP in all three models. For the first time, we prepared a novel promising self-assembled NP based on LTIB. In summary, these results indicated that the LTB-based nanocarriers have the potential for broad applications, further expanding the library of self-assembled nanocarriers.
COVID-19 Vaccination and Predictive Factors in Immigrants to Europe: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gualdi-Russo Emanuela , Zaccagni Luciana
Published: March 2024

Vaccination plays a pivotal role in the control of infectious disease outbreaks. Hesitancy/refusal of the vaccine by immigrants poses a serious threat to their and society’s health. We reviewed studies regarding COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Europe by first-generation immigrants. A systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42023432142), conducted until 31 October 2023 using Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus, identified 295 potential articles. Of these, 16 conducted on 2,009,820 immigrants in nine European countries met the eligibility criteria. Most studies were of medium/high quality according to the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale adapted for observational studies. Factors that affected the uptake or hesitancy/refusal to vaccinate, with particular regard to gender, age, and country of origin, were examined. The meta-analysis of eight studies revealed that the pooled estimated prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine uptake in first-generation immigrants was 71.3% (95% CI: 70.0–72.5%), corresponding to 13.3% less than the host country population (95% CI: 10.2–16.4%). Limitations of included studies and this review were deeply discussed, highlighting the need for further research on the effect of acculturation on second-generation immigrants. European governments need to ensure equal availability of COVID-19 and other health-saving vaccines to all immigrants in the future by overcoming cultural barriers, building trust in institutions, and improving communication.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines: Analysis of Pre-Marketing Clinical Trials for Immunogenicity in the Population over 50 Years of Age
Authors: Papazisis Georgios , Topalidou Xanthippi , Gioula Georgia , González Pablo A. , Bueno Susan M. , Kalergis Alexis M.
Published: March 2024

Immunosenescence refers to age-related alterations in immune system function affecting both the humoral and cellular arm of immunity. Understanding immunosenescence and its impact on the vaccination of older adults is essential since primary vaccine responses in older individuals can fail to generate complete protection, especially vaccines targeting infections with increased incidence among the elderly, such as the respiratory syncytial virus. Here, we review clinical trials of both candidate and approved vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that include adults aged ≥50 years, with an emphasis on the evaluation of immunogenicity parameters. Currently, there are 10 vaccine candidates and 2 vaccines approved for the prevention of RSV in the older adult population. The number of registered clinical trials for this age group amounts to 42. Our preliminary evaluation of published results and interim analyses of RSV vaccine clinical trials indicates efficacy in older adult participants, demonstrating immunity levels that closely resemble those of younger adult participants.