bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sound-Event Detection of Water-Usage Activities Using Transfer Learning
Authors: Hyun Seung Ho
Published: December 2023

In this paper, a sound event detection method is proposed for estimating three types of bathroom activities—showering, flushing, and faucet usage—based on the sounds of water usage in the bathroom. The proposed approach has a two-stage structure. First, the general sound classification network YAMNet is utilized to determine the existence of a general water sound; if the input data contains water sounds, W-YAMNet, a modified network of YAMNet, is then triggered to identify the specific activity. W-YAMNet is designed to accommodate the acoustic characteristics of each bathroom. In training W-YAMNet, the transfer learning method is applied to utilize the advantages of YAMNet and to address its limitations. Various parameters, including the length of the audio clip, were experimentally analyzed to identify trends and suitable values. The proposed method is implemented in a Raspberry-Pi-based edge computer to ensure privacy protection. Applying this methodology to 10-min segments of continuous audio data yielded promising results. However, the accuracy could still be further enhanced, and the potential for utilizing the data obtained through this approach in assessing the health and safety of elderly individuals living alone remains a topic for future investigation.
Control Transitions in Level 3 Automation: Safety Implications in Mixed-Autonomy Traffic
Authors: Alms Robert , Wagner Peter
Published: December 2023

Level 3 automated driving systems could introduce challenges to traffic systems as they require a specific lead time in their procedures to ensure the safe return of vehicle control to the driver. These processes, called ’transitions of control’, may particularly pose complications in accelerating traffic flows when regulations mandate control transitions due to an operational speed limitation of 60 km/h as established in recent certification processes based on UNECE regulations from 2021. To investigate these concerns, we conducted a comprehensive simulation study to examine potential safety implications arising from control transitions within mixed-autonomy traffic. The simulation results indicate adverse safety impacts due to increased safety-relevant interactions between vehicles caused by transitions of control in dynamic traffic flow conditions. Our findings also reveal that those effects could become stronger once string unstable ACC controllers are deployed as well.
Nanomaterials for CO2 Capture from Gas Streams
Authors: Alguacil Francisco Jose
Published: December 2023

Since CO2 is an important component of gas emissions, its removal from gas streams is of the utmost importance to fulfill various environmental requirements. The technologies used to accomplish this removal are based mainly on absorption, as well as adsorption and membrane processing. Among the materials used in the above separation processes, materials in nano forms offer a potential alternative to other commonly used macromaterials. The present work reviews the most recent publications (2023) about CO2 capture using different nanomaterials, and whilst most of these publications were dedicated to investigating the above, several presented data on the separation of CO2 from other gases, namely nitrogen and methane. Furthermore, a number of publications investigated the recyclability of nanomaterials under continuous use, and just three of the references were about computational modeling; all others were experimental papers, and only one reference used a real industrial gas.
AHP and GCA Combined Approach to Green Design Evaluation of Kindergarten Furniture
Authors: Xie Xiaojie , Zhu Jiangang , Ding Sheng , Chen Jingjing
Published: December 2023

Kindergarten furniture is an important part of children’s furniture. However, in sharp contrast with the high level of concern about the color, shape, structure, and modularity of kindergarten furniture, the research on green design and green evaluation of kindergarten furniture has not been given due attention. Through understanding the concept and principles of green design, this paper presents an objective approach to evaluate the green design of kindergarten furniture. An evaluation method based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) integrating gray correlation analysis (GCA) for kindergarten furniture green design was proposed. By using the AHP to determine the green design elements of kindergarten furniture, five standard layer indicators were obtained in aspects of environmental friendliness of the materials, color, technological structure, size, and interestingness, as well as 11 criterion layer indicators: environmental friendliness of structural materials, environmental friendliness of adhesives, environmental friendliness of paint, stimulate creativity or enhance concentration, avoid the feelings of unsteadiness, structural stability, rounding the edges, comfortable to use, size adjustable, interesting decorative patterns, and modular. Afterward, GCA was used to evaluate the green design of five kindergarten furniture schemes and a comprehensive evaluation score was obtained. Taking the design scheme represented by five desk and chair sets in kindergarten as an example, the effectiveness of this method was verified, and the advantages and disadvantages of the five desk and chair sets were analyzed and compared. The results showed that the third desk and chair sets at kindergarten made of New Zealand pine ranks first in the comprehensive green evaluation indicators, followed by the fourth sets made of rubber and wood. After the green design evaluation, we studied the carbon footprint of five furniture products and analyzed their carbon emissions at the production stage, the packaging stage, the transportation stage, and the storage stage. The results show that the amount of carbon emission is generally consistent with the evaluation results of the green scheme, which verifies the effectiveness of the green design evaluation method. This study provides an effective and feasible reference for kindergarten furniture designers. Hence, a greener kindergarten furniture design is expected to improve the learning and living environment for kindergarten-age children.
Unraveling the Complex Interplay of Sustainability, Investments, and Economic Indicators
Authors: Chahuán-Jiménez Karime , Rubilar-Torrealba Rolando , de la Fuente-Mella Hanns , Elórtegui-Gómez Claudio
Published: December 2023

The concept of sustainability, both in strong and weak forms, has been evaluated through methodologies like the Human Development Index and the Index of Sustainability Development. While the strong form emphasizes the irreplaceable nature of natural capital, the weak form has been often critiqued for its operational ambiguity, even amidst international conservation agreements. Meanwhile, the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals have been grouped into categories based on their influence being positive or negative. Multinational companies’ investments, both internal and external, play a vital role in balancing competitiveness and addressing externalities in various host communities. This research primarily focuses on understanding the intricate relationship between human development, concentration indices, sustainable development, investment, and gross domestic product (GDP). In this research, we use an econometric methodology based on maximum likelihood estimation to control for heteroskedasticity effects of the proposed models. The main results indicate that factors such as the level of industrial concentration, human development, and GDP have a significant impact on the sustainability indices of the countries of the research.
Contribution of Argentinian B Corporations to Sustainable Development Goals: Empirical Analysis Based on Their Practices and Solutions to Socioenvironmental Problems
Authors: Ficco Cecilia , Bersía Paola , Bressan Cecilia , Herrera-Rodríguez Edila Eudemia
Published: December 2023

This study aims at examining how B Corporations advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in their practices by analyzing the socioenvironmental problems they address and the solutions they provide to those problems. All Argentinian B Corporations, certified by early 2023 (135 companies), were investigated using a mixed approach, combining social network analysis with textual data analysis. The results showed that the environmental practices are primarily linked to waste, water, energy and chemical management, as well as product innovation. In turn, the social practices address the training, education, and well-being of employees and other stakeholders, diversity, equity and inclusion management, and the creation of an inclusive and fair environment, integrating local communities. Thus, in the flow of their sustainability practices, Argentinian B Corporations contribute to SDGs 8, 12, 13, 9, 6, 7, 5, 10, 11, 4, and 17, in line with the SDGs declared by these companies. Our findings contribute to the theoretical knowledge on the B Corp movement and have practical implications by providing input to improve the management of B Corporations and to guide public policies encouraging these companies to advance sustainable development dimensions lacking attention.
Perceived Risk and Food Tourism: Pursuing Sustainable Food Tourism Experiences
Authors: An Soyoung , Choi Jinkyung , Eck Thomas , Yim Huirang
Published: December 2023

While food can function as a component product of tourism, there remains a need for food tourism to become more sustainable. This study sought to discover what risk dimensions tourists perceive in food tourism and to enhance understanding of what actions and coping behaviors tourists take to lower levels of perceived risk in a food tourism setting. Data were collected in March 2023 for two weeks from Chinese tourists who considered traveling to Jeju Island, South Korea. A total of 303 responses were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling to test 13 hypotheses. Results identified physical risk, communication risk, and food-related risk as concerns for tourists, and the results confirmed support for 11 of the hypotheses tested. This study has theoretical implications for supplementing insufficient prior research by examining the risk factors perceived by tourists when participating in food tourism. Practical implications from this study include ways to reduce the level of perceived risk dimensions for sustainable food tourism experiences.
Analysis of the Ongoing Effects of Disasters in Urbanization Process and Climate Change: China’s Floods and Droughts
Authors: Mu Yong , Li Ying , Yan Ran , Luo Pingping , Liu Zhe , Sun Yingying , Wang Shuangtao , Zhu Wei , Zha Xianbao
Published: December 2023

Urban development and climate change have strengthened the possibility of floods and droughts in cities. In this study, we evaluated the influences of these disasters and related social damage in nine major basins during the past 50 years. Unusually, the following conclusions were drawn from the analysis of relevant indicators before and after urbanization: (1) agricultural loss area (flood), grain loss, and direct economic loss showed an upward trend, while other indicators showed the opposite. (2) Floods most often occur in the Yangtze River Basin (58, 26.2%), followed by the Liaohe River Basin (49, 22.2%), which is closely related to the topography and economic progress of the area. (3) The modified Mann–Kendall (MK) analysis results are consistent with the indicators trend. Finally, the regularity of the climate change and urbanization process is revealed by the migration of the standard deviation ellipse and the mean center of the four indicators. China needs to integrate urban water/drought policy development with sustainable urbanization policy development to cope with the changing natural and social environment and to minimize urban ecological risks.
Insight into the Evolutionary Mechanism of the Rear Fissure of Landslides That Conform to the Three-Section Mechanism
Authors: Tang Peng , Chen Guoqing , Qin Siqing
Published: December 2023

In landslides that conform to the three-section mechanism, the rear fissure is the essential component of the potential sliding surface. Hence, the evolutionary mechanism behind that is important for reducing the risk of such landslides. In this research, the evolutionary features and processes were analyzed through a case of landslides that conform to the three-section mechanism; then, base friction testing was carried out to explore the evolutionary mechanism of the rear fissure. On the reliability–validation basis of the consistency of outside deformation features between the testing model and real slopes, deeper analysis of the inner deformation field linked to different rear fissure depths indicates that the weak front interlayer controls the inevitability of the rear tension fissure onset. During rear tension fissure propagation from zero to the critical depth (Hcr), the driving effect of tension fissure propagation undergoes a process of accelerating followed by decelerating roughly bounded by Hcr/2. Moreover, the rear tension fissure closure trend may start at a tension fissure depth of approximately Hcr/2 instead of starting at nearly Hcr. Because of this, the rear tension fissure closure trend that previously suggested by researchers may not always be a perfect indicator of landslides that conform to the three-section mechanism. It may result in the misprediction of such landslides. The findings of this research contribute to a better understanding of the evolutionary mechanisms underlying rear fissures, which, in turn, can help to promote disaster mitigation for landslides that conform to the three-section mechanism. This research can enhance sustainable development by improving safety for people and their property.
Company Perspectives on Circular Economy Management, Assessment and Reporting in the Kymenlaakso Region in Finland
Authors: Husgafvel Roope
Published: December 2023

In general, circular economy development is about a system-level change towards significantly enhanced circularity and sustainability encompassing both biological and technical cycles. This study aimed at exploring, identifying, analyzing and synthesizing how companies in the Kymenlaakso region perceive circular economy management, assessment and reporting. This study applied a qualitative research approach using a questionnaire survey as the specific method. The responding companies are of many sizes and represent multiple sectors such as industry, construction and various services. This study addressed a clear gap in research on company-level perspectives. The results indicate that recycling and recovery of materials are perceived as particularly important by companies. In addition, the principles of CE (10Rs) are considered to be important by most companies. Essential management approaches encompass, for example, CE strategy and goals, business ecosystems and development of markets for recycled and recovered products and parts. Companies considered that recycling, recovery, waste minimization and utilization of waste as a raw material, as well as an increase in recycled content in products, reduction in disposable products and prevention of premature obsolescence, are important CE assessment and measurement approaches. For example, continuous reporting of CE as a part of online communication of companies (i.a. sustainability and responsibility), the definition of best practices and best available techniques for CE, and reporting in the whole supply and value chain were perceived as important ways to report CE. However, it is noteworthy that many of the studied aspects of CE were not perceived to be important by companies. Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of the current state of and future outlook on circular economy development in the studied region and also highlights relevant management, assessment and reporting aspects from the perspective of local companies.
Energy Evolution Law of Sandstone Material during Post-Peak Cyclic Loading and Unloading under Hydraulic Coupling
Authors: Zhang Yingjie , Zhao Yanlin , Liu Qiang , Li Yang , Lin Hang
Published: December 2023

The sustainability of rock engineering is an emerging trend in future development, as society increasingly recognizes the importance of environmental conservation and responsible resource utilization. In this context, the field of rock engineering is undergoing a paradigm shift toward more sustainable practices. A significant aspect of this shift is the investigation of energy evolution laws specific to rocks, which assumes paramount importance in ensuring the sustainable utilization of damaged rock roadways. To investigate the impact of confining pressure and pore pressure on the energy evolution characteristics of rock beyond the peak, post-peak cyclic loading and unloading tests were conducted on sandstone specimens under hydraulic coupling conditions using the MTS815 rock mechanical test system. The study encompassed three sets of confining pressures, namely, 10 MPa, 20 MPa, and 30 MPa. Different levels of pore pressure were applied within each confining pressure group. For the 10 MPa confining pressure, the pore pressure values were set at 2 MPa, 4 MPa, 6 MPa, and 8 MPa. Similarly, for the 20 MPa and 30 MPa confining pressures, the corresponding pore pressure values were 2 MPa, 6 MPa, 10 MPa, 14 MPa, 18 MPa, and 22 MPa. The experimental findings indicate that as the confining pressure increases, both the maximum and residual elastic energy densities of the rock gradually increase. The rise in confining pressure impedes the release of elastic energy. Moreover, with increasing confining pressure, the rate of increase in the maximum dissipated energy density diminishes, highlighting the inhibitory effect of confining pressure on energy dissipation and release within the rock. Pore pressure, on the other hand, disrupts the load-bearing structure of the rock and reduces its energy storage capacity. Under a constant confining pressure, for a fixed number of cycles (axial strain), the total input energy density, elastic energy density, and dissipation energy density exhibit a negative correlation with pore pressure. With an increase in the number of cycles (axial strain), the proportion of elastic energy initially rises but subsequently declines, while the proportion of dissipated energy follows the opposite trend. Furthermore, as the confining pressure increases, the peak proportion of elastic energy also tends to increase. This indicates that higher confining pressures promote energy accumulation after rock failure, enhancing the rock’s ability to store elastic energy.
Exploring the Use of Wood Pellets as a Sustainable Alternative for Indoor Insulation
Authors: Hussien Aseel , Maksoud Aref , Abdeen Ahmed , Nofal Eslam
Published: December 2023

This study utilized industrial waste in the form of wood pellet shavings as a sustainable alternative for indoor insulation, aiming at improving materials’ performance, reducing energy consumption, and promoting efficient waste management. Samples were made with various percentages of wood pellets mixed with clay, sand, and lime at 2%, 5%, and 10%. The physical and mechanical tests revealed that water exposure decreases samples’ mechanical and thermal properties. Despite the literature suggesting that a mixture with higher amounts of natural fibers often exhibits lower thermal conductivity, this study found that samples with higher proportions of wood pellets performed worse than expected. The reduction in performance is believed to be due to the increased water input into the mixture during the flow table test. Further, results show that samples with 2% exhibit high thermal conductivity compared to 5% and 10% due to having fewer voids within them than the other mixtures, showing a clear correlation between the wood pellet amount and sample density. This reveals an apparent lack of correlation between the density samples and thermal conductivity. However, given their impressive hygroscopic qualities, the materials show promising solutions as an indoor air regulatory aid.
Revitalizing Rural Tourism: A Croatian Case Study in Sustainable Practices
Authors: Funduk Marina , Biondić Ivana , Simonić Abra Lea
Published: December 2023

Dubrovnik-Neretva County, renowned for the City of Dubrovnik, grapples with tourism challenges affecting its UNESCO-listed Old City. This study advocates for promoting less-explored inland areas to ease the strain on the heritage site and alleviate coastal tourist pressure. By diversifying tourism and supporting sustainable rural development, the region can spur economic growth, foster local businesses, and improve infrastructure through EU and national funding. The research explores financial investments in less-developed areas, emphasizing sustainable tourism practices for socio-economic and environmental benefits. The analysis highlights the project’s positive impact on sustainable tourism development inland, preserving natural heritage, and fostering economic benefits for local communities. According to the cost–benefit analysis, the proposed idea outperforms all alternatives with new attractions and enhanced infrastructure, contributing to overall municipal growth. External funding is crucial for viability, with a negative net income until 2040, offset by municipal support. Economic indicators justify social and economic benefits, emphasizing project resilience. The active tourism centre project, emphasizing eco-friendly outdoor activities, highlights the role of cost–benefit analysis in rural tourism infrastructure investment, recommending external funding for success.
A Research to Determine the Perception of the Tangible Cultural Architectural Heritage of Erzurum Castle and Its Surroundings in Turkey
Authors: Akpinar Külekçi Elif , Özgeriş Mustafa , Sezen Işık , Karahan Ayşe , Karahan Faris
Published: December 2023

The city center of Erzurum in the east of Turkey, Erzurum province, has structures with origins from the Anatolian Seljuk and Ilkhanid Periods to the present day, including the “Erzurum Castle”, “Ulu Mosque”, “Double Minaret Madrasa”, “Yakutiye Madrasa”, and “Three Kumbets.” It is home to one of the most important cultural heritages of Eastern Anatolia in history and faith tourism. Erzurum can be considered as the cradle of many cultures and civilizations with its deep historical past. Restoration (renovation) works around these monuments, which also contribute to the city’s identity, are important in terms of preserving historical monuments for the future. In this study, the importance of landscape projects and housing restorations in the city and its surroundings, in terms of harmony with the historical environment and monuments and urban identity, was investigated. In the questionnaire prepared for this purpose, we attempted to determine the perceptions of the protection, appreciation, and contribution aspects of the urban renewal works conducted in the tangible architectural heritage areas centered on Erzurum castle. The questionnaires, which included 5-point Likert-type questions, were distributed to 400 people. We sought the opinions of experts in decision-making mechanisms and academicians, as well as local people. As a result of the study, it has been determined that the city is generally not sensitive enough about the protection of historical neighbourhoods and monuments, and urban transformation projects do not contribute to conservation efforts in terms of conservation, sustainability, and visual perception. In addition, in terms of visual perception, it has been revealed that the newly developing regions of the city do not offer housing projects compatible with the historical environment, and that the relevant studies conducted are insufficient. The study also revealed that Erzurum Castle plays a central role in the perception of the historical environment. In terms of sustainability perception, it was determined that architectural restoration and landscape works have positive effects on cultural tourism, urban attractiveness, sense of belonging, quality of life, and prevention of migration. The prepared questions were divided into three groups: conservation sensitivity and perception, visual perception, and sustainability perception.
Dynamic Assessment of Urban Carrying Capacity Load Number Using the Enhanced UCCLN Model
Authors: Liponhay Marissa , Valerio Alyssa , Fornan Glydel , Alis Christian , Monterola Christopher
Published: December 2023

The sustainability of cities often changes as rapid urban developments and population growth affect the carrying capacity. Understanding the dynamics of carrying capacity becomes crucial for tourist-oriented cities. This study focused on Baguio City, the “Summer Capital of the Philippines”, attracting large crowds on holidays and actively promoting various events on other days, thus having temporal context variations classified as regular days, days with events, and holidays. Using the enhanced urban carrying capacity load number (EUCCLN) model, the changes in the load number (LN) are calculated for different temporal contexts based on spatial indicators grouped into air, traffic, economy and waste. The city experiences the worst pressures on air quality during holidays, with 99.23% of the districts at very high to critical levels, followed by regular days and days with events. However, the total LN during holidays is balanced by favorable economic conditions with only 9.23% of the districts at the critical level. EUCCLN effectively pinpoints areas that are at critical states at any given time, advocating targeted government monitoring. We demonstrate that nighttime light, for places with no available economic data, can be used as a proxy to highlight areas requiring improved urban vibrancy. This work suggests that monitoring urban pressures using EUCCLN can easily be extended to real time with nowcasting indicator data.
A New Approach to the Development of Geothermal Water Utilization in the Context of Identifying and Meeting the Social Needs of Local Communities: A Case Study from the Mogilno–Łódź Trough, Central Poland
Authors: Wachowicz-Pyzik Anna , Sowiżdżał Anna , Maćkowski Tomasz , Stefaniuk Michał
Published: December 2023

For many years, geothermal energy has been successfully used for both energy as well as balneological, healing, and recreational purposes. It should be emphasized that, along with the great interest in geothermal investments, the development of other economic sectors (i.e., tourism, cosmetology, food production, and many other sectors related directly or indirectly to geothermal waters) are also noted in this paper. That kind of development is seen both in regions where centers using geothermal energy are created, as well as in their immediate vicinity. An important aspect of the use of geothermal energy is also its positive impact on the environment by reducing the emission of pollutants that could end up in the environment as a result of using conventional energy sources, namely coal or natural gas. Given the high level of air pollution in Poland, according to data from the European Environment Agency, 12 Polish cities are among the 20 most polluted cities in Europe (data for 2021–2022), and this aspect seems to be key for achieving sustainability while maintaining economic balance. In this article, a new approach to the development of geothermal water utilization in the context of identifying and meeting the social needs of local communities in the Mogilno–Łódź Trough region is described.
Quantum Hall and Shubnikov-de Haas Effects in Graphene within Non-Markovian Langevin Approach
Authors: Alpomishev Erkin Kh. , Adamian Gurgen G. , Antonenko Nikolay V.
Published: December 2023

The theory of open quantum systems is applied to study galvano-, thermo-magnetic, and magnetization phenomena in axial symmetric two-dimensional systems. Charge carriers are considered as quantum particles interacting with the environment through a one-body (mean-field) mechanism. The dynamics of charge carriers is affected by the average collision time that takes effectively into account two-body effects. The functional dependencies of the average collision time on the external uniform magnetic field, concentration and temperature are phenomenologically treated. Analytical expressions are obtained for the tensors of electric and thermal conductivity and/or resistivity. The developed theory is applied to describe the Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations and quantum Hall effect in graphene and GaAs/AlxGa1−xAs heterostructure. The dependencies of magnetization and thermal conductivity on the magnetic field are also predicted.
Advantages of Photon-Counting Detector CT in Aortic Imaging
Authors: Zanon Chiara , Cademartiri Filippo , Toniolo Alessandro , Bini Costanza , Clemente Alberto , Colacchio Elda Chiara , Cabrelle Giulio , Mastro Florinda , Antonello Michele , Quaia Emilio , Pepe Alessia
Published: December 2023

Photon-counting Computed Tomography (PCCT) is a promising imaging technique. Using detectors that count the number and energy of photons in multiple bins, PCCT offers several advantages over conventional CT, including a higher image quality, reduced contrast agent volume, radiation doses, and artifacts. Although PCCT is well established for cardiac imaging in assessing coronary artery disease, its application in aortic imaging remains limited. This review summarizes the available literature and provides an overview of the current use of PCCT for the diagnosis of aortic imaging, focusing mainly on endoleaks detection and characterization after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), contrast dose volume, and radiation exposure reduction, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease and in those requiring follow-up CT.
Lethal and Sublethal Effects of Cyromazine on the Biology of Musca domestica Based on the Age–Stage, Two-Sex Life Table Theory
Authors: Khan Hafiz Azhar Ali
Published: December 2023

Cyromazine is a triazine insect growth regulator insecticide that is recommended for control of Musca domestica worldwide. Cyromazine is highly effective in causing mortality of M. domestica; however, some aspects of its lethal and sublethal effects on the biology of M. domestica are still unknown. The present study explored lethal and sublethal effects on several biological traits and population parameters of M. domestica. Concentration–response bioassays of cyromazine against third-instar larvae of M. domestica exhibited sublethal and lethal effects from concentrations of 0.03 (LC10), 0.06 (LC25), and 0.14 (LC50) μg/g of a larval medium. Exposure of M. domestica larvae to these concentrations resulted in reduced fecundity, survival, longevity and oviposition period, and delayed development of immature stages (i.e., egg hatch time and larval and pupal durations) in the upcoming generation of M. domestica. The values of population parameters such as intrinsic rate of increase, finite rate of increase, net reproductive rate, age-specific survival rate and fecundity, and age–stage life expectancy and reproductive value, analyzed using the age–stage and two-sex life table theory, were significantly reduced in a concentration-dependent manner in comparison with the control group. In conclusion, the study highlights the significant effects of cyromazine on the biology of M. domestica that could help suppress its population in cases of severe infestations.
Heterophyllin: A New Adenia Toxic Lectin with Peculiar Biological Properties
Authors: Bortolotti Massimo , Biscotti Francesco , Zanello Andrea , Polito Letizia , Bolognesi Andrea
Published: December 2023

Ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) are plant toxins that were identified for their ability to irreversibly damage ribosomes, thereby causing arrest of protein synthesis and induction of cell death. The RIPs purified from Adenia plants are the most potent ones. Here, we describe a novel toxic lectin from Adenia heterophylla caudex, which has been named heterophyllin. Heterophyllin shows the enzymatic and lectin properties of type 2 RIPs. Interestingly, in immunoreactivity experiments, heterophyllin poorly cross-reacts with sera against all other tested RIPs. The cytotoxic effects and death pathways triggered by heterophyllin were investigated in three human-derived cell lines: NB100, T24, and MCF7, and compared to ricin, the most known and studied type 2 RIP. Heterophyllin was able to completely abolish cell viability at nM concentration. A strong induction of apoptosis, but not necrosis, and the involvement of oxidative stress and necroptosis were observed in all the tested cell lines. Therefore, the enzymatic, immunological, and biological activities of heterophyllin make it an interesting molecule, worthy of further in-depth analysis to verify its possible pharmacological application.
Peripheral Neuropathy in Virologically Suppressed People Living with HIV: Evidence from the PIVOT Trial
Authors: Schuldt Anna L. , Bern Henry , Hart Melanie , Gompels Mark , Winston Alan , Clarke Amanda , Chen Fabian , Stöhr Wolfgang , Heslegrave Amanda , Paton Nicholas I. , Petzold Axel , Arenas-Pinto Alejandro
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study is to identify the factors associated with peripheral neuropathy and to explore neurofilament light chain (NfL) as a biomarker for peripheral neuropathy (PN) in effectively virologically suppressed adults living with HIV. All protease inhibitor monotherapy versus ongoing triple therapy in the long-term management of HIV infection (PIVOT) trial participants with data on PN at baseline were included in the study. NfL plasma levels (pNfL) were measured in a sub-set of participants. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the associations of PN with potential risk factors (including age, sex, nadir CD4 cell count, history of dideoxynucleoside (d-drugs) exposure, and blood glucose levels) and NfL levels. Of the 585 participants included, 131 (22.4%) reported PN during the study period (median of 44 months). The participants were predominantly male (76.6%), White (68.2%), and virologically suppressed for a median period of 37 months (range of 20–63) before recruitment. The age at baseline was 44.3 years (standard deviation (SD) of 9.2). PN was independently associated with age (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.35, 95% CI of 1.20–1.52; additional 5 years), history of d-drugs (aOR 1.88, 95% CI of 1.12–3.16), height (aOR 1.19, 95% CI of 1.05–1.35; additional 5 cm), nadir CD4 cell count (aOR 1.10 CI of 1.00–1.20; 50 cells fewer), and metabolic syndrome (aOR 2.31, 95% CI of 1.27 4.20), but not pNfL. The excess risk for PN associated with d-drug use remains after the exposure has stopped for years, suggesting non-reversible toxicity. In people with HIV, metabolic syndrome is independently associated with PN. There was no additional value for pNfL as a screening test for peripheral neuropathy in effectively virologically suppressed adults living with HIV.
The Era of the FLips: How Spike Mutations L455F and F456L (and A475V) Are Shaping SARS-CoV-2 Evolution
Authors: Focosi Daniele , Spezia Pietro Giorgio , Gueli Federico , Maggi Fabrizio
Published: December 2023

Convergent evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein has been mostly driven by immune escape, in particular by escape to the viral infection-neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) elicited by previous infections and/or vaccinations [...]
2023 International African Swine Fever Workshop: Critical Issues That Need to Be Addressed for ASF Control
Authors: Wang Lihua , Ganges Llilianne , Dixon Linda K. , Bu Zhigao , Zhao Dongming , Truong Quang Lam , Richt Juergen A. , Jin Meilin , Netherton Christopher L. , Benarafa Charaf , Summerfield Artur , Weng Changjiang , Peng Guiqing , Reis Ana L. , Han Jun , Penrith Mary-Louise , Mo Yupeng , Su Zhipeng , Vu Hoang Dang , Pogranichniy Roman M. , Balaban-Oglan David-Adrian , Li Yuzhen , Wang Kewen , Cai Xuepeng , Shi Jishu
Published: December 2023

The 2023 International African Swine Fever Workshop (IASFW) took place in Beijing, China, on 18–20 September 2023. It was jointly organized by the U.S.-China Center for Animal Health (USCCAH) at Kansas State University (KSU) and the Chinese Veterinary Drug Association (CVDA) and sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS), Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, and Zoetis Inc. The objective of this workshop was to provide a platform for ASF researchers around the world to unite and share their knowledge and expertise on ASF control and prevention. A total of 24 outstanding ASF research scientists and experts from 10 countries attended this meeting. The workshop included presentations on current ASF research, opportunities for scientific collaboration, and discussions of lessons and experiences learned from China/Asia, Africa, and Europe. This article summarizes the meeting highlights and presents some critical issues that need to be addressed for ASF control and prevention in the future.
Interplay Between HIV and Human Pegivirus (HPgV) Load in Co-Infected Patients: Insights from Prevalence and Genotype Analysis
Authors: Köksal Muammer , Pirkl Martin , Sarsar Kutay , Ilktaç Mehmet , Horemheb-Rubio Gibran , Yaman Murat , Meşe Sevim , Eraksoy Haluk , Akgül Baki , Ağaçfidan Ali
Published: December 2023

Human pegivirus (HPgV) is transmitted through sexual or parenteral exposure and is common among patients receiving blood products. HPgV is associated with lower levels of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) RNA and better survival among HIV-infected patients. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of HPgV and determine its subtypes in HIV-infected individuals living in Istanbul, which has the highest rate of HIV infection in Türkiye. Total RNA extraction from plasma, cDNA synthesis, and nested PCR were performed for HPgV on plasma samples taken from 351 HIV-1-infected patients. The HPgV viral load was quantified on HPgV-positive samples. HPgV genotyping was performed by sequencing the corresponding amplicons. In the present study, the overall prevalence of HPgV RNA in HIV-infected patients was 27.3%. HPgV subtypes 1, 2a, and 2b were found, with subtype 2a being the most frequent (91.6%). Statistical analysis of HIV-1 viral load on HPgV viral load showed an opposing correlation between HIV-1 and HPgV loads. In conclusion, these data show that HPgV infection is common among HIV-positive individuals in Istanbul, Türkiye. Further comprehensive studies are needed to clarify both the cellular and molecular pathways of these two infections and to provide more information on the effect of HPgV on the course of the disease in HIV-infected individuals.
Spanish HCMV Seroprevalence in the 21st Century
Authors: Álvarez-Heredia Pablo , Reina-Alfonso Irene , Domínguez-del-Castillo José Joaquín , Hassouneh Fakhri , Gutiérrez-González Carmen , Batista-Duharte Alexander , Pérez Ana-Belén , Sarramea Fernando , Jaén-Moreno María José , Camacho-Rodríguez Cristina , Tarazona Raquel , Solana Rafael , Molina Juan , Pera Alejandra
Published: December 2023

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is linked to age-related diseases like cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative conditions, and cancer. It can also cause congenital defects and severe illness in immunocompromised individuals. Accurate HCMV seroprevalence assessment is essential for public health planning and identifying at-risk individuals. This is the first HCMV seroprevalence study conducted in the general Spanish adult population in 30 years. We studied HCMV seroprevalence and HCMV IgG antibody titres in healthy adult donors (HDs) and HCMV-related disease patients from 2010 to 2013 and 2020 to 2023, categorized by sex and age. We compared our data with 1993 and 1999 studies in Spain. The current HCMV seroprevalence among HDs in Spain is 73.48%. In women of childbearing age, HCMV seroprevalence has increased 1.4-fold in the last decade. HCMV-seropositive individuals comprise 89.83% of CVD patients, 69% of SMI patients, and 70.37% of COVID-19 patients. No differences in HCMV seroprevalence or HCMV IgG antibody titres were observed between patients and HDs. A significant reduction in Spanish HCMV seroprevalence among HDs was observed in 1993. However, women of childbearing age have shown an upturn in the last decade that may denote a health risk in newborns and a change in HCMV seroprevalence trends.
The Extract of Angelica sinensis Inhibits Hypoxia–Reoxygenation and Copper-Induced Oxidative Lesions and Apoptosis in Branchiae and Red Blood Corpuscles of Fish
Authors: Long Jiao , Yang Pengyan , Liu Yihua , Liu Xiaoru , Li Huatao , Su Xiaoyu , Zhang Ting , Xu Jing , Chen Gangfu , Jiang Jun
Published: December 2023

The study explored the effects of Angelica sinensis extract (AsE) on oxidative lesions and apoptosis in branchiae and red blood corpuscles in hypoxia–reoxygenation (HR) and Cu-treated carp (Cyprinus carpio var. Jian). After feeding trial for 30 days, the carp were exposed to HR and CuSO4. The results indicated that dietary AsE increased the durative time, decreased the oxygen consumption rate, suppressed ROS generation and cellular component oxidation, decreased enzymatic antioxidant activity and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in red blood corpuscles and branchiae in carp under hypoxia. Moreover, dietary AsE avoided the loss of Na+,K+-ATPase, metabolic and antioxidant enzyme activities, ROS generation and cellular component oxidation, as well as the increase in caspase-8, 9, and 3 activities in the branchiae of the carp and inhibited ROS generation. It furthermore avoided the loss of Na+,K+-ATPase and metabolic enzyme activities, the decrease in GSH levels and hemoglobin content, the increase in the activities of caspase-8, 9, and 3 and the increase in the levels of cytochrome c and phosphatidylserine exposure in the red blood corpuscles of Cu-exposed carp. The present results suggested that dietary AsE improved hypoxia tolerance and inhibited HR or Cu-triggered oxidative lesions and apoptosis. Therefore, AsE can be utilized as a natural inhibitor of Cu and HR stress in fish.
The Emotional Impact of Patient Loss on Brazilian Veterinarians
Authors: Moreira Bergamini Simone , Uccheddu Stefania , Riggio Giacomo , de Jesus Vilela Maria Rosa , Mariti Chiara
Published: December 2023

Veterinarians, unlike human physicians, could potentially care for the patient for several years, from conception to end-of-life care. Because of their close relationship with the animal, healthcare providers (for example, veterinarians and staff) are more likely to be affected by bad events and end-of-life care. The purpose of this study was to assess the emotional impact of patients’ deaths on Brazilian veterinarians; 549 Brazilian veterinarians (78.3% females) completed a 20-item online questionnaire. Females were more emotionally affected than males by having to talk to the owner about their animal’s death and more emotionally affected by the animal’s death itself. Furthermore, the emotional impact of an animal’s death was heavily influenced by the number of animals euthanized and varied greatly across veterinarians based on their age, with vets over 50 years old being less affected than vets between the ages of 31 and 40. The majority of responders (91.0%) were not trained to deal with grief during their degree. Those who had some training reported being less affected by bereavement. These findings indicate that patient death is a significant emotional concern for veterinarians. Specific education during the degree course, aimed at preparing future veterinarians to deal with death and death communication, is lacking but necessary.
Factors Affecting the Spatiotemporal Variation of Precipitation in the Songhua River Basin of China
Authors: Li Zhijun , Yang Hongnan , Jia Minghui
Published: December 2023

The study aimed to investigate the spatiotemporal variation of annual precipitation and extreme precipitation within the Songhua River Basin (SRB). It utilized precipitation data collected from 60 meteorological stations within the SRB during the period 1968–2019. Employing Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) analysis, it decomposed spatiotemporal characteristics of annual precipitation in the SRB. Through Pearson correlation analysis, application of the cross-wavelet transform, and wavelet coherence analysis, the current study explored the correlation between geographical factors, local air temperature, circulation factors, and annual and extreme precipitation. The results indicated an increasing trend for annual precipitation and for most indices of extreme precipitation within the SRB, apart from the consecutive dry days (CDD). Spatially, a general pattern of “more in the east and less in the west” was observed. Annual precipitation types in the basin were resolved into two modes with the first mode showing a general tendency of more (or less) precipitation over the entire basin, while the second mode exhibited less (or more) precipitation in the western areas and more (or less) in the eastern areas. Longitude, latitude, and altitude significantly impacted annual precipitation and extreme precipitation. Local air temperature notably affected the consecutive wet days (CWD). The West Pacific Subtropical High (WPSH) exerts a strong influence on the annual precipitation and extreme precipitation within the basin.
Assessing Water Quality Spatial Heterogeneity from Multiple Pollution Sources in the Boung Cheung Ek Wetland, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Authors: Bravo de Guenni Lelys , Lenczewski Melissa , Mallow Samuel Vesal , Solanki Shantanu
Published: December 2023

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, as with many other world megacities, is exposed to multiple major ecological and environmental hazards. Without a proper wastewater treatment facility, it is difficult for local residents to obtain a health-compliant water supply. In this study, a hybrid aggregation method using principal component analysis (PCA) and weighted means was used to calculate a water quality index (WQI) to map the water quality of the entire Boeung Cheung Ek (BCE) wetland region. We used Universal Kriging to map eight water quality parameters: DO, pH, TDS, F, Cl, NO3−, PO43−, and NH4+. The restricted maximum likelihood method was used for model fitting. Data were collected from groundwater and surface water for different rainfall seasons between March 2017 and February 2018. The principal component analysis (PCA) used to compute a water quality index (WQI) is based on the resulting dimensions of the highest variation among all water quality parameters. The results show that the northern part of the study area has a worse water quality than the southern region, which is caused by the discharge of municipal wastewater directly into the BCE wetland area. The results for different rainfall seasons also show that groundwater has a relatively better quality than surface water. The results of this analysis can serve as a supplementary study to support sustainable development goals because they might confirm the need for a wastewater treatment facility being under construction at the time of writing this article with funding from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).