bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geochemical Mapping and Reference Values of Potentially Toxic Elements in a Contaminated Mining Region: Upper Velhas River Basin Stream Sediments, Iron Quadrangle, Brazil
Authors: Vicq Raphael , Leite Mariangela G. P. , Leão Lucas P. , Nallini Júnior Hermínio A. , Valente Teresa
Published: December 2023

The Upper Velhas River Basin, in the mining region of the Iron Quadrangle, is one of the most polluted basins in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The region has been exploited for gold and iron, among other substances of interest. In addition to abandoned mines, active works and mineralized rocks contribute to the discharge of contaminated waters into the rivers and streams. Thus, high-density geochemical mapping with the determination of reference values has become very important, as it allows the spatial distribution of contaminant elements to be obtained, contributing to the recognition of areas with deviant values in the basin. Two hundred and eight sediment samples were collected from streams throughout the Velhas River Basin, with a density of one sample per 15 km2. Geochemical maps were compiled using the distance-weighted inverse interpolation method, and concentrations were distinguished from anomalies using the box plot Upper Inner Fence technique. It was found that 73–78% of the basin area does not present geogenic and anthropic anomalies, with values up to the third quartile for As, Cd, Cr, Ni, Cu, Pb, and Zn. However, anomalies related to human actions, mainly mining works and rock types, occupy 2 to 11% of the area. This first high-density mapping in the Upper Velhas River Basin found numerous streams with concentrations of the elements studied above the Probable Effect Level, allowing us to determine which locations, cities, and river sub-basins are exposed to environmental risks and should be monitored and protected.
Provenance of Volcanogenic Deposits from the Shanxi Formation of the Daniudi Gas Field, Ordos Basin, and Its Tectonic Implications
Authors: Qu Xuejiao , Wang Qiao , Wang Dunfan , Lei Tao , Chen Hao , Wang Jia , Jiang Wei , Zhang Wei , Luo Long , Liu Jianping , Jiang Nan , Gao Xuanbo , Tan Xianfeng
Published: December 2023

Through detailed drill-core description, petrography, cathodoluminescence imaging, and geochemistry analysis, sedimentary deposits with a high content of volcanogenic components (27.6%) were discovered in the Shanxi Formation of the Daniudi Gas Field, Ordos Basin. The volcanogenic components include volcanogenic quartz, lava fragments (dominated by rhyolite fragments), tuff fragments, and tuffaceous matrix. In addition, at least two volcanic ash layers were discovered. Although the metamorphic rocks of the Precambrian succession in the ancient land of Yin Mountain are usually considered the primary source of the Shanxi formation, it is most likely that the volcanogenic components were derived from intermediate-acid volcanic materials that accumulated in the Daqingshan area during the Late Carboniferous to Early Permian. Those volcanogenic components are mainly transported by flowing water rather than by air from origin to basin. In addition, the accumulation of volcanic materials in the Daqingshan area was controlled by volcanic eruptions occurring solely in this area, rather than by the Inner Mongolia Orogenic Belt. Those volcanic eruptions were related to the southward subduction of the Paleo-Asian Ocean Plate beneath the northern margin of the North China Plate in the Late Carboniferous to Early Permian. The active continental margin related to the subduction of the Paleo-Asian Ocean Plate lasted at least until the Early Permian, and the closure of the Paleo-Asian Ocean must have occurred later than the Early Permian.
Gold Nanoparticle-Loaded Porous Poly(ethylene glycol) Nanosheets for Electrochemical Detection of H2O2
Authors: Zhao Zhiyong , Zharnikov Michael
Published: December 2023

The effective detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in different environments and, above all, in biological media, is an important practical issue. To this end, we designed a novel electrochemical sensor for H2O2 detection by introducing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) into the porous poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) matrix formed by the thermally activated crosslinking of amino- and epoxy-decorated STAR-PEG precursors. The respective composite PEG-AuNP films could be readily prepared on oxidized Si substrates, separated from them as free-standing nanosheets, and transferred as H2O2 sensing elements onto the working electrode of the electrochemical cell, with the performance of the sensing element relied on the established catalytic activity of AuNPs with respect to H2O2 decomposition. The sensitivity, detection limit, and the operation range of the composite PEG-AuNP sensors were estimated at ~3.4 × 102 μA mM−1 cm−2, 0.17 μM of H2O2, and 20 μM–3.5 mM of H2O2, respectively, which are well comparable with the best values for other types of H2O2 sensors reported recently in literature. The particular advantages of the composite PEG-AuNP sensors are commercial source materials, a simple fabrication procedure, the bioinert character of the PEG matrix, the 3D character of the AuNP assembly, and the possibility of transferring the nanosheet sensing element to any secondary substrate, including the glassy carbon electrode of the electrochemical cell. In particular, the bioinert character of the PEG matrix can be of importance for potential biological and biomedical applications of the designed sensing platform.
Neuromorphic Photonics Circuits: Contemporary Review
Authors: Kutluyarov Ruslan V. , Zakoyan Aida G. , Voronkov Grigory S. , Grakhova Elizaveta P. , Butt Muhammad A.
Published: December 2023

Neuromorphic photonics is a cutting-edge fusion of neuroscience-inspired computing and photonics technology to overcome the constraints of conventional computing architectures. Its significance lies in the potential to transform information processing by mimicking the parallelism and efficiency of the human brain. Using optics and photonics principles, neuromorphic devices can execute intricate computations swiftly and with impressive energy efficiency. This innovation holds promise for advancing artificial intelligence and machine learning while addressing the limitations of traditional silicon-based computing. Neuromorphic photonics could herald a new era of computing that is more potent and draws inspiration from cognitive processes, leading to advancements in robotics, pattern recognition, and advanced data processing. This paper reviews the recent developments in neuromorphic photonic integrated circuits, applications, and current challenges.
The Use of Semiconductor Quantum Dots with Large, Built-In Spontaneous Polarizations for the Electric Potential Stimulation of Biological Structures on the Nanoscale
Authors: Zia Nida , Stroscio Michael A. , Dutta Mitra
Published: December 2023

The feasibility of using quantum dots fabricated from materials with built-in spontaneous polarizations for the electric potential stimulation of biological structures in aqueous environments is evaluated by modeling the electric potential produced in the vicinity of such quantum dots. By modeling the external potential created by the spherical nanoscale region of a material with spontaneous polarization, and by considering Debye screening in the vicinity of the quantum dot, it is found that electric potential around these nanostructures is sufficient to cause physiological effects in selected biological systems. These findings suggest that quantum dots may be used in lieu of quantum dots with polarizations produced using an external laser to cause physiological effects. The elimination of the external laser represents a significant benefit of using quantum dots with permanent, built-in spontaneous polarization.
Immune Responses Potentially Involved in the Gestational Complications of Brucella Infection
Authors: Zavattieri Lucía , Muñoz González Florencia , Ferrero Mariana C. , Baldi Pablo C.
Published: December 2023

Infection by Brucella species in pregnant animals and humans is associated with an increased risk of abortion, preterm birth, and transmission of the infection to the offspring. The pathogen has a marked tropism for the placenta and the pregnant uterus and has the ability to invade and replicate within cells of the maternal–fetal unit, including trophoblasts and decidual cells. Placentitis is a common finding in infected pregnant animals. Several proinflammatory factors have been found to be increased in both the placenta of Brucella-infected animals and in trophoblasts or decidual cells infected in vitro. As normal pregnancies require an anti-inflammatory placental environment during most of the gestational period, Brucella-induced placentitis is thought to be associated with the obstetric complications of brucellosis. A few studies suggest that the blockade of proinflammatory factors may prevent abortion in these cases.
Exploring the Diversity of Plant-Associated Viruses and Related Viruses in Riverine Freshwater Samples Collected in Berlin, Germany
Authors: Zell Roland , Groth Marco , Selinka Lukas , Selinka Hans-Christoph
Published: December 2023

Plant-infecting RNA viruses from 30 families and floating genera, as well as a great number of uncultured as yet-unclassified plant-associated viruses have been described. Even so, the plant RNA virosphere is still underexplored. RNA extracted from enriched virus particles of 50 L water samples from the Teltow Canal and the Havel River in Berlin, Germany, was sequenced using Illumina next-generation sequencing. Sequences were searched for plant viruses with BLAST and DIAMOND. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted with IQ-TREE 2. Altogether, 647 virus sequences greater than 1 kb were detected and further analyzed. These data revealed the presence of accepted and novel viruses related to Albetovirus, Alphaflexiviridae, Aspiviridae, Bromoviridae, Endornaviridae, Partitiviridae, Potyviridae, Solemoviridae, Tombusviridae and Virgaviridae. The vast majority of the sequences were novel and could not be taxonomically assigned. Several tombus- and endorna-like viruses make use of alternative translation tables that suggest unicellular green algae, ciliates, or diplomonades as their hosts. The identification of 27 albeto-like satellite viruses increases available sequence data five-fold. Sixteen new poty-like viruses align with other poty-like viruses in a link that combines the Astroviridae and Potyviridae families. Further, the identification of viruses with peptidase A6-like and peptidase A21-like capsid proteins suggests horizontal gene transfer in the evolution of these viruses.
Occurrence and Characterization of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Causing Fruit Rot on Sweet Cherry in Southern China
Authors: Ruan Ruoxin , Huang Kangkang , Luo Huifeng , Zhang Chen , Xi Dujun , Pei Jiabo , Liu Hui
Published: December 2023

Sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) is widely planted in northern China due to its high economic value, and its cultivation has gradually spread south to warm regions. However, fruit rot, observed on the young fruits, poses a considerable threat to the development of sweet cherry. To determine the causal agent, morphological observation, molecular identification, and pathogenicity tests were performed on isolates obtained from diseased fruits. As a result, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum was identified as the pathogen. Pathogenicity tests on different sweet cherry cultivars indicated that ‘Summit’ was highly sensitive to S. sclerotiorum, whereas ‘Hongmi’ showed significant resistance. Besides sweet cherry, S. sclerotiorum could also infect other vegetable crops we tested, such as cowpea, soybean, tomato, and chili. Fungicide sensitivity and efficacy assays showed that both fludioxonil and pyraclostrobin can effectively inhibit the mycelial growth of S. sclerotiorum and decrease disease incidences on the young fruits of sweet cherry. Furthermore, genome sequencing resulted in a 37.8 Mb assembly of S. sclerotiorum strain ScSs1, showing abundant SNPs, InDels, and SVs with the genome of S. sclerotiorum reference strain 1980 UF-70. The above results provide an important basis for controlling the fruit rot of sweet cherry caused by S. sclerotiorum in China.
Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Crop and Medicinal Plants
Authors: Dobrikova Anelia G.
Published: December 2023

Climate change and the increased need for crop production highlight the urgent importance of introducing crops with increased tolerance to adverse environmental conditions [...]
Comparative Characterization of Pseudoroegneria libanotica and Pseudoroegneria tauri Based on Their Repeatome Peculiarities
Authors: Kroupin Pavel Yu. , Yurkina Anna I. , Ulyanov Daniil S. , Karlov Gennady I. , Divashuk Mikhail G.
Published: December 2023

Pseudoroegneria species play an important role among Triticeae grasses, as they are the putative donors of the St genome in many polyploid species. Satellite repeats are widely used as a reliable tool for tracking evolutionary changes because they are distributed throughout the genomes of plants. The aim of our work is to perform a comparative characterization of the repeatomes of the closely related species Ps. libanotica and Ps. tauri, and Ps. spicata was also included in the analysis. The overall repeatome structures of Ps. libanotica, Ps. tauri, and Ps. spicata were similar, with some individual peculiarities observed in the abundance of the SIRE (Ty1/Copia) retrotransposons, Mutator and Harbinger transposons, and satellites. Nine new satellite repeats that have been identified from the whole-genome sequences of Ps. spicata and Ps. tauri, as well as the CL244 repeat that was previously found in Aegilops crassa, were localized to the chromosomes of Ps. libanotica and Ps. tauri. Four satellite repeats (CL69, CL101, CL119, CL244) demonstrated terminal and/or distal localization, while six repeats (CL82, CL89, CL168, CL185, CL192, CL207) were pericentromeric. Based on the obtained results, it can be assumed that Ps. libanotica and Ps. tauri are closely related species, although they have individual peculiarities in their repeatome structures and patterns of satellite repeat localization on chromosomes. The evolutionary fate of the identified satellite repeats and their related sequences, as well as their distribution on the chromosomes of Triticeae species, are discussed. The newly developed St genome chromosome markers developed in the present research can be useful in population studies of Ps. libanotica and Ps. tauri; auto- and allopolyploids that contain the St genome, such as Thinopyrum, Elymus, Kengyilia, and Roegneria; and wide hybrids between wheat and related wild species.
SmRAV1, an AP2 and B3 Transcription Factor, Positively Regulates Eggplant’s Response to Salt Stress
Authors: Ding Junjie , Yao Bowen , Yang Xu , Shen Lei
Published: December 2023

Salt stress is a lethal abiotic stress threatening global food security on a consistent basis. In this study, we identified an AP2 and B3 domain-containing transcription factor (TF) named SmRAV1, and its expression levels were significantly up-regulated by NaCl, abscisic acid (ABA), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) treatment. High expression of SmRAV1 was observed in the roots and sepal of mature plants. The transient expression assay in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves revealed that SmRAV1 was localized in the nucleus. Silencing of SmRAV1 via virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) decreased the tolerance of eggplant to salt stress. Significant down-regulation of salt stress marker genes, including SmGSTU10 and SmNCED1, was observed. Additionally, increased H2O2 content and decreased catalase (CAT) enzyme activity were recorded in the SmRAV1-silenced plants compared to the TRV:00 plants. Our findings elucidate the functions of SmRAV1 and provide opportunities for generating salt-tolerant lines of eggplant.
Phytochemical Statistical Mapping of Red Grape Varieties Cultivated in Romanian Organic and Conventional Vineyards
Authors: Nicolescu Cristina Mihaela , Bumbac Marius , Radulescu Cristiana , Buruleanu Claudia Lavinia , Olteanu Radu Lucian , Stanescu Sorina Geanina , Gorghiu Laura Monica , Serban Bogdan Catalin , Buiu Octavian
Published: December 2023

Red grapes are rich in phytochemicals such as phenolics and flavonoids, which are strongly correlated with their antioxidant activity. Thus, grapes as-harvested and grape extracts, especially those obtained from their seeds and pulp, have been reported to have health benefits, and accordingly, grapes and their derivatives are considered potential functional food ingredients. The total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and the antioxidant activity of skin, pulp, and seeds of four grape varieties grown both in conventional and organic vineyards were examined in this study. Phytochemical characteristics of one native Romanian variety, Feteasca Neagra, were compared with data measured for three red grape varieties more commonly cultivated worldwide (Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Muscat Hamburg). It was found that the seeds of the Pinot Noir variety grown in an organic system contained the highest total phenolics of 169.53 ± 7.32 mg gallic acid equivalents/g and the highest total flavonoid content of 388.25 ± 10.72 mg quercetin equivalents/g, values corresponding to high antioxidant activity (312.84 ± 12.81 mg ascorbic acid equivalents/g). The total flavonoid content in the hydroalcoholic extracts obtained from seeds of Pinot Noir (organic vineyard) was around 24.5-fold higher than that of the skin of Pinot Noir (conventional vineyard). Experiments showed that seeds of all four tested grape varieties are good sources of total flavonoids, not only of total phenolics. When referring to the organic vineyard, the skin and pulp grapes showed good results for the total phenolic content. The antioxidant activities of the hydroalcoholic extracts were well-correlated with the total phenolic content and total flavonoid content. Lower values of these parameters were found for extracts obtained from skin and pulp than for those obtained from seeds of the same grape variety regardless of the culture management system (organic/conventional). Data mining techniques such as regression analysis, principal component analysis, and clustering analysis were applied to establish the potential correlation between the phytochemical content and the antioxidant activities of the red grapes on the one hand, and grape variety, anatomical parts, and vineyard type (organic/conventional) on the other hand.
Study on Rheological Properties and Pouring Process of Hydroxyl-Terminated Polybutadiene (HTPB) Propellants
Authors: Wang Haoyu , Ji Yongchao , Jiang Xiaorui , Li Zhuo
Published: December 2023

The process of solid propellant production, which is the most widely used high-energy material, has garnered significant attention from researchers. However, there have been relatively few studies on its processing, due to the unique nature of the casting process. This paper aims to further analyze the pouring process of the propellant slurry. Initially, we obtained a sample of the propellant slurry and measured its rheological parameters using a rotary rheometer. From the analysis of the experimental results, we derived the viscosity parameters and the yield values of the propellant slurry. Subsequently, we simulated the pouring process, setting the slurry parameters based on the data obtained from the rheological measurement experiment. The simulation results demonstrated that the flower plate significantly impacts upon the cutting and separating effect on the slurry during pouring. Upon leaving the flower plate, the slurry descends onto the core mold platform under the influence of gravity, gradually flowing along the edge of the core mold. Although there may be some small voids in the pouring process, the voids will disappear completely at the end of pouring. A comparison with the actual pouring situation revealed a higher consistency between the simulation results and reality, thus establishing the reliability of the simulation method as a reference for analyzing the pouring process.
Research Advances in Wood Composites in Applications of Industrial Wastewater Purification and Solar-Driven Seawater Desalination
Authors: Song Dongsheng , Zheng Dingqiang , Li Zhenghui , Wang Chengyu , Li Jian , Zhang Ming
Published: December 2023

In recent years, the ecosystem has been seriously affected by sewage discharge and oil spill accidents. A series of issues (such as the continuous pollution of the ecological environment and the imminent exhaustion of freshwater resources) are becoming more and more unmanageable, resulting in a crisis of water quality and quantity. Therefore, studies on industrial wastewater purification and solar-driven seawater desalination based on wood composites have been widely considered as an important development direction. This paper comprehensively analyzes and summarizes the applications of wood composites in the fields of solar-driven seawater desalination and polluted water purification. In particular, the present situation of industrial wastewater containing heavy metal ions, microorganisms, aromatic dyes and oil stains and related problems of solar-driven seawater desalination are comprehensively analyzed and summarized. Generally, functional nanomaterials are loaded into the wood cell wall, from which lignin and hemicellulose are selectively removed. Alternatively, functional groups are modified on the basis of the molecular structure of the wood microchannels. Due to its three-dimensional (3D) pore structure and low thermal conductivity, wood is an ideal substrate material for industrial wastewater purification and solar-driven seawater desalination. Based on the study of objective conditions such as the preparation process, modification method and selection of photothermal conversion materials, the performances of the wood composites in filtration, adsorption and seawater desalination are analyzed in detail. In addition, this work points out the problems and possible solutions in applying wood composites to industrial wastewater purification and solar-driven seawater desalination.
Recyclability of Post-Consumer Polystyrene at Pilot Scale: Comparison of Mechanical and Solvent-Based Recycling Approaches
Authors: Pin Jean-Mathieu , Soltani Iman , Negrier Keny , Lee Patrick C.
Published: December 2023

Solvent-based and mechanical recycling technology approaches were compared with respect to each process’s decontamination efficiency. Herein, post-consumer polystyrene (PS) feedstock was recycled by both technologies, yielding recycled PS resins (rPS). The process feedstock was subjected to four recycling cycles in succession to assess the technology perennity. The physico-chemical and mechanical properties of the rPS were then evaluated to discern the advantages and drawbacks of each recycling approach. The molecular weight of the mechanically recycled resin was found to decrease by 30% over the reprocessing cycles. In contrast, the solvent-base recycling technology yielded a similar molecular weight regarding the feedstock. This consistency in the rPS product is critical for consumer applications. Further qualitative and quantitative analyses on residual organic compounds and inorganic and particulate contaminants were investigated. It was found that the solvent-based technology is very efficient for purifying deeply contaminated feedstock in comparison to mechanical recycling, which is limited to well-cleaned and niche feedstocks.
Special Issue “Historical Network Analysis in the Study of Chinese Religion”—Introduction
Authors: Bingenheimer Marcus
Published: December 2023

The seven articles in this Special Issue use historical network analysis to investigate aspects of Chinese religious traditions [...]
Contesting State-Led Patriarchy—The Drivers, Demands and Dynamics of Women’s Participation in the Gezi Uprisings in Turkey 2013
Authors: Stein Nora , Kursawe Janet , Köhler Denis
Published: December 2023

The Gezi Park protests in Istanbul (Türkiye) gained worldwide attention in 2013. Both men and women took part in the protests, which were heavily cracked down on by the government. The present study examined 273 Turkish women’s attitudes and motivations for taking part in the protests. The results show that the following variables had a significant impact on protest participation: lifestyle threats posed by religious values/norms and by the government; feelings of marginalization as a woman; political dissatisfaction; gender discrimination; and affiliations with feminism. Regarding the impact of attitudes on women’s political participation and discrimination, this study provides insights into the state of research on gender discrimination and feministic identity.
Real-Life Synchromodality Challenges: A Qualitative Study in Flanders
Authors: Jesus Mylena Cristine Rodrigues de , van Hassel Edwin , Vanelslander Thierry
Published: December 2023

The search for more sustainable freight transport has been the focus in the last decades. In this way, the concept of synchromodality was built considering the collaboration of shippers and logistic service providers to enable real-time switching between transport modes and mode-free transport bookings, encouraging more flexible and sustainable freight transportation. However, there are several challenges to its implementation in real life, which is the focus of this paper. To achieve this, in addition to a literature study, a case study was conducted in Flanders, using a combination of qualitative methods, i.e., focus groups (FG) and expert interviews, aiming to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Challenges such as real-time decision making, limited infrastructure capacity, and the need for stakeholder collaboration were emphasized. Expert insights highlight the need for a forecast-based approach to facilitate mode shift decisions, particularly from roadway to inland waterway transport (IWT). The analysis underscores the potential benefits of the proposed synchromodal technology while acknowledging the requirements needed to make it real.
Measuring Disaster Recovery: Lessons Learned from Early Recovery in Post-Tsunami Area of Aceh, Indonesia
Authors: Suriastini Ni Wayan , Wijayanti Ika Yulia , Sikoki Bondan , Sumantri Cecep Sukria
Published: December 2023

The assessment of post-disaster recovery is often hindered by limited metric and longitudinal data, in addition to the dynamic and long-term processes. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the early stages after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami in Aceh, Indonesia, using the Disaster Recovery Index (DRI). The two initial waves of Study of Tsunami and Aftermath Recovery (STAR) data were used to track the recovery process from 5 to 19 months after the tsunami. The results showed various recovery patterns in three affected areas and five sectors. Furthermore, recovery rates in the medium and heavily damaged areas increased by 2.05 and 7.45 percentage points, respectively, with a 0.33 percentage point decrease in the lightly damaged areas. The social and livelihood sectors showed rapid progress, supported by the establishment of temporary health and education facilities, including Cash-for-Work programs. Meanwhile, other sectors experienced slower recovery due to their complexity. The application of the DRI successfully showed the relative positions across affected areas and sectors over time in a simple way. This confirmed the variety of recoveries in subgroups in the community and suggested the importance of regularly measuring progress using standard metrics to observe long-term conditions.
Assessing Water Security and Coupling Coordination in the Lancang–Mekong River Basin for Sustainable Development
Authors: Zheng Yanting , He Jing , Zhang Wenxiang , Lv Aifeng
Published: December 2023

Water security is crucial for the sustainable development of regional water resources. Here, we utilize the Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework to construct an indicator system for assessing water security in the Lancang–Mekong River Basin (LMRB). This study also delves into the level of development in the coupling coordination between the economic and social systems and the water resources systems in the basin. The findings reveal that the overall water security situation in the LMRB is satisfactory, with three countries (China, Laos, and Vietnam) surpassing the “safe” threshold and three countries (Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar) “Basically safe”. However, water security issues persist, particularly in relation to water pollution and scarcity. Seasonal water shortages and water-related disasters arise due to uneven rainfall distribution throughout the year and inadequate regulating facilities such as wetlands and reservoirs. In addition, the overall coupling coordination level in the LMRB is low, ranging between 0.3 and 0.4, corresponding to a moderate imbalance level in the assessment criteria system. Specifically, Laos and China exhibit the highest coupling coordination level, with a degree of 0.36, whereas Thailand and Myanmar demonstrate the lowest level, with degrees of 0.33 and 0.31, respectively. Overall, our results offer a scientific foundation for the sustainable development of countries within the LMRB.
AI-Based Evaluation of Streets for People in Bangkok: Perspectives from Walkability and Lingerability
Authors: Bando Yuka , Yoh Kento , Sou Kanyou , Chou Chun-Chen , Doi Kenji
Published: December 2023

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, grapples with several urban challenges, including traffic accidents, congestion, and underdeveloped sidewalks. These issues stem from the escalating use of private cars and motorcycles driven by rapid urbanization, accompanying economic growth, and the unique street geometry of the city. Furthermore, despite the development of railroads, issues persist with the poor walking environment for pedestrian access to stations, posing a challenge to the promotion of safe and environmentally friendly public transportation. This study evaluated streets’ spatial performance, focusing on the performance of soi, the intricate network of narrow urban pathways in Bangkok. Leveraging an AI model capturing pedestrian value, this study subsequently assessed accessibility from typical residential areas to public transportation stations. The findings shed light on the challenges faced by sois in Bangkok. Based on the findings, practical implications were discussed and provided to inform urban designers, with the aim of promoting public transportation usage and encouraging a more sustainable urban form.
Synchronized Cyclograms to Assess Inter-Limb Symmetry during Gait in Women with Anorexia and Bulimia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Pau Massimiliano , Cerfoglio Serena , Capodaglio Paolo , Marrone Flavia , Mendolicchio Leonardo , Porta Micaela , Leban Bruno , Galli Manuela , Cimolin Veronica
Published: December 2023

Anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) are eating diseases characterized by extreme eating behaviours impacting both mental and physical health. Aberrant musculoskeletal adaptations due to malnutrition affect motor abilities such as postural control and gait. To date, limited data is available with regards to gait symmetry in AN and BN. The aim of this study was to characterize inter-limb asymmetry during gait in two cohorts affected by AN and BN, respectively, using the synchronized cyclograms and to compare it with a healthy weight group. A total of 14 AN, 17 BN, and 11 healthy-weight females were assessed via 3D gait analysis. Gait spatio-temporal parameters were computed together with angle–angle diagrams, which were characterized in terms of their geometric features. Individuals with AN and BN were characterized by reduced speed and cadence and an abnormal increase in the duration of the double support phase with respect to the healthy controls. With respect to inter-limb symmetry, asymmetries were detected in both groups, with individuals with BN exhibiting significantly larger cyclogram areas at the hip joint with respect to the other groups (323.43 degrees2 vs. 253.74 degrees2 vs. 136.37 degrees2) and significantly higher orientation angle and Trend Symmetry at both knee and ankle joint. The cyclogram analysis suggests the presence of an altered gait symmetry in individuals with BN. In the AN group, it is possible to observe a similar trend; however, this is not statistically significant. Overall, the findings of this study may provide a novel perspective on the motor control dysfunction linked to eating disorders and aid clinicians in selecting a suitable rehabilitation scheme targeted at enhancing motor stability and control.
A Simple Method for Constructing Symmetric Subdivision Schemes with High-Degree Polynomial Reproduction
Authors: Shi Jun , Tan Jieqing , Zhang Li
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we present an efficient method for constructing symmetric subdivision schemes reproducing high-degree polynomials, without solving a system of linear equations. Original symmetric subdivision and its deduced subdivisions have similar increasing characteristics to the family of pseudo-splines from the polynomial reproduction point of view. Several examples are given to illustrate the efficiency of the method.
An Analysis of the Features of Requirements Engineering Tools
Authors: Ozkaya Mert , Kardas Geylani , Kose Mehmet Alp
Published: December 2023

Many requirements engineering tools have been developed for gathering, documenting, and tracing requirements that can even be further processed for such purposes as analysis and transformation. In this study, we analysed 56 different requirements engineering tools for a comprehensive set of features that are categorised into multiple viewpoints (i.e., project management, specification, collaboration, customisation, interoperability, methodology, and user-support). The analysis results led to many interesting findings. Some of them are as follows: (i) the project planning and execution activities are rarely supported, (ii) multi-user access and versioning are highly supported, (iii) the most popular specification technique is natural languages, while precise specification via modeling languages is rarely supported, (iv) requirements analysis is rarely supported, (v) requirements transformation is considered for generating documents only, (vi) tool customisation via the tool integration and API support is highly popular, while customising the notation set is rarely supported, (vii) exchanging requirements is popular in such standards as ReqIF and Excel/CSV, while no single standard is accepted by all the tools, (viii) agile development is very common, while other methodologies (e.g., MDE and SPLE) are rarely supported, and (ix) user-guides, telephone, e-mail, and videos are the most preferred methods for user-support. The analysis results will be useful for different stakeholders including practitioners, tool vendors, and researchers.
Cellular Release of Infectious Hepatitis C Virus Particles via Endosomal Pathways
Authors: Deng Lin , Solichin Muchamad Ridotu , Adyaksa Dewa Nyoman Murti , Septianastiti Maria Alethea , Fitri Rhamadianti Aulia , Suwardan Gede Ngurah Rsi , Matsui Chieko , Abe Takayuki , Shoji Ikuo
Published: December 2023

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus that causes chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The release of infectious HCV particles from infected hepatocytes is a crucial step in viral dissemination and disease progression. While the exact mechanisms of HCV particle release remain poorly understood, emerging evidence suggests that HCV utilizes intracellular membrane trafficking and secretory pathways. These pathways include the Golgi secretory pathway and the endosomal trafficking pathways, such as the recycling endosome pathway and the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT)-dependent multivesicular bodies (MVBs) pathway. This review provides an overview of recent advances in understanding the release of infectious HCV particles, with a particular focus on the involvement of the host cell factors that participate in HCV particle release. By summarizing the current knowledge in this area, this review aims to contribute to a better understanding of endosomal pathways involved in the extracellular release of HCV particles and the development of novel antiviral strategies.
Influenza D in Domestic and Wild Animals
Authors: Kwasnik Malgorzata , Rola Jerzy , Rozek Wojciech
Published: December 2023

Influenza D virus (IDV) infections have been observed in animals worldwide, confirmed through both serological and molecular tests, as well as virus isolation. IDV possesses unique properties that distinguish it from other influenza viruses, primarily attributed to the hemagglutinin-esterase fusion (HEF) surface glycoprotein, which determines the virus’ tropism and wide host range. Cattle are postulated to be the reservoir of IDV, and the virus is identified as one of the causative agents of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) syndrome. Animals associated with humans and susceptible to IDV infection include camels, pigs, small ruminants, and horses. Notably, high seroprevalence towards IDV, apart from cattle, is also observed in camels, potentially constituting a reservoir of the virus. Among wild and captive animals, IDV infections have been confirmed in feral pigs, wild boars, deer, hedgehogs, giraffes, wildebeests, kangaroos, wallabies, and llamas. The transmission potential and host range of IDV may contribute to future viral differentiation. It has been confirmed that influenza D may pose a threat to humans as a zoonosis, with seroprevalence noted in people with professional contact with cattle.
Epidemiologic and Genomic Evidence for Zoonotic Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among People and Animals on a Michigan Mink Farm, United States, 2020
Authors: Ghai Ria R. , Straily Anne , Wineland Nora , Calogero Jennifer , Stobierski Mary Grace , Signs Kimberly , Blievernicht Melissa , Torres-Mendoza Yaritbel , Waltenburg Michelle A. , Condrey Jillian A. , Blankenship Heather M. , Riner Diana , Barr Nancy , Schalow Michele , Goodrich Jarold , Collins Cheryl , Ahmad Ausaf , Metz John Michael , Herzegh Owen , Straka Kelly , Arsnoe Dustin M. , Duffiney Anthony G. , Shriner Susan A. , Kainulainen Markus H. , Carpenter Ann , Whitehill Florence , Wendling Natalie M. , Stoddard Robyn A. , Retchless Adam C. , Uehara Anna , Tao Ying , Li Yan , Zhang Jing , Tong Suxiang , Barton Behravesh Casey
Published: December 2023

Farmed mink are one of few animals in which infection with SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in sustained transmission among a population and spillback from mink to people. In September 2020, mink on a Michigan farm exhibited increased morbidity and mortality rates due to confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. We conducted an epidemiologic investigation to identify the source of initial mink exposure, assess the degree of spread within the facility’s overall mink population, and evaluate the risk of further viral spread on the farm and in surrounding wildlife habitats. Three farm employees reported symptoms consistent with COVID-19 the same day that increased mortality rates were observed among the mink herd. One of these individuals, and another asymptomatic employee, tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) 9 days later. All but one mink sampled on the farm were positive for SARS-CoV-2 based on nucleic acid detection from at least one oral, nasal, or rectal swab tested by RT-qPCR (99%). Sequence analysis showed high degrees of similarity between sequences from mink and the two positive farm employees. Epidemiologic and genomic data, including the presence of F486L and N501T mutations believed to arise through mink adaptation, support the hypothesis that the two employees with SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection contracted COVID-19 from mink. However, the specific source of virus introduction onto the farm was not identified. Three companion animals living with mink farm employees and 31 wild animals of six species sampled in the surrounding area were negative for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-qPCR. Results from this investigation support the necessity of a One Health approach to manage the zoonotic spread of SARS-CoV-2 and underscores the critical need for multifaceted public health approaches to prevent the introduction and spread of respiratory viruses on mink farms.
Partial Atomic Model of the Tailed Lactococcal Phage TP901-1 as Predicted by AlphaFold2: Revelations and Limitations
Authors: Mahony Jennifer , Goulet Adeline , van Sinderen Douwe , Cambillau Christian
Published: December 2023

Bacteria are engaged in a constant battle against preying viruses, called bacteriophages (or phages). These remarkable nano-machines pack and store their genomes in a capsid and inject it into the cytoplasm of their bacterial prey following specific adhesion to the host cell surface. Tailed phages possessing dsDNA genomes are the most abundant phages in the bacterial virosphere, particularly those with long, non-contractile tails. All tailed phages possess a nano-device at their tail tip that specifically recognizes and adheres to a suitable host cell surface receptor, being proteinaceous and/or saccharidic. Adhesion devices of tailed phages infecting Gram-positive bacteria are highly diverse and, for the majority, remain poorly understood. Their long, flexible, multi-domain-encompassing tail limits experimental approaches to determine their complete structure. We have previously shown that the recently developed protein structure prediction program AlphaFold2 can overcome this limitation by predicting the structures of phage adhesion devices with confidence. Here, we extend this approach and employ AlphaFold2 to determine the structure of a complete phage, the lactococcal P335 phage TP901-1. Herein we report the structures of its capsid and neck, its extended tail, and the complete adhesion device, the baseplate, which was previously partially determined using X-ray crystallography.
Widespread Geographical Disparities in Phytoplankton Ecology Research in the Face of Climate Change: A Review
Authors: Adhiambo Rael , Mensah Paul Kojo , Acheampong Emmanuel
Published: December 2023

Climate change is a global threat that is better understood through global research spanning many regions, countries, and life-supporting ecosystems. This review focused on the bibliometric analysis of the distribution of a global research compendium on phytoplankton, an aquatic community that accounts for half of the carbon fixation in the global carbon cycle. A total of 716 primary research papers published in the immediate past decade (2012–2022) were reviewed. The articles were sampled from Web of Science and described field and laboratory experiments quantifying the impact of global climate change on phytoplankton from different climate zones (tropical, subtropical, temperate, subpolar, and polar) and ecosystems (freshwater, brackish, and marine). Analyses of these studies suggest that the bulk of the global research effort (80%) focused on high-latitude areas, and only a few (17%) were carried out in the tropics, largely led by four countries (Australia, Brazil, India, and Saudi Arabia), while Africa’s contribution was minuscule (<1%). In terms of ecosystems, the majority (76%) of the research was in marine waters, irrespective of the climate zone. Analyses of these studies also highlighted widespread disparities in phytoplankton research in tropical aquatic ecosystems, particularly in Africa. Strategic investment in terms of targeted funding, institutional networks, and partnerships between the global north and global south are necessary to increase phytoplankton research across different ecosystems in the tropics.
APPLICATION OF THE BENDING WAVE METHOD FOR INSPECTION OF SLAB AND WALL STRUCTURES
Authors: Fan Ch. D.
Published: December 2023

The paper considers the possibility of estimating the stiffness and strength characteristics of slab and wall structures by thickness based on the results of experimental studies of measurements of bending wave propagation velocities of different frequency ranges. Theoretical dispersion curves of bending wave velocities as a function of their lengths for plate structures of different characteristics at different thicknesses are constructed. Comparison of theoretical and experimental results for estimation of the state of materials by the thickness of slabs has been carried out. Experimental measurements of bending wave propagation velocities on the walls of an existing building in St. Petersburg have been carried out, and the primary assessment of masonry stiffness properties and control of the design wall thickness have been performed. The results of the studies confirmed the possibility of assessing the characteristic of the state of materials in the thickness of slab and wall structures by comparing experimental studies of bending wave propagation velocity measurements at different frequency ranges. The use of bending wave method also allows controlling the design thickness of slab, wall and lining at one-sided access
PROSPECT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF PUBLIC CENTERS IN THE REPUBLIC OF YEMEN. ANALYSYS OF WORLD EXPERIENCE
Authors: Alseh A. S. M.
Published: December 2023

The Republic of Yemen is characterized by a unique architecture and a variety of building types, where public buildings are of great importance for the economic and cultural development of society. Recent political events and economic changes observed in the Middle East region in general and in the Republic of Yemen in particular have had an impact on social infrastructure and its role in society: there is a need to restore destroyed and build new public buildings of modern types, taking into account local culture and traditions. Since Yemeni society is characterized by its diversity, customs and traditions that have been formed over thousands of years, further development of the typology of public buildings in the country is necessary on a scientific basis in order to ensure continuity on the one hand, and compliance with international quality standards on the other. The article presents the results of the analysis of the experience of designing and building modern public centers in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Current architectural trends are identifies and, based on this, further directions for the development of the typology of public buildings in the Republic of Yemen are outlined. It is expected that this article will contribute to providing a scientific basis for the sustainable development of community centers in the Republic of Yemen
Restituiri. Două mici tezaure descoperite la Poiana în campania 1949 / Restitutions. Two small jewellery hoards discovered at Poiana in during the 1949 campaign
Authors: Spânu Daniel
Published: December 2023

Cercetările arheologice desfăşurate în anul 1949 de către Radu Vulpe în aşezarea protoistorică de la Poiana (jud. Galaţi, România) au condus la descoperirea unor obiecte din argint. Vreme îndelungată, modul în care se asociau sau nu aceste obiecte, precum şi contextele lor arheologice au rămas necunoscute. Regăsirea şi studierea carnetului inedit al campaniei din 1949 îngăduie identificarea a două tezaure : unul este format dintr‑o pereche de fibule de tip Almgren 82 mai mari, celălalt cuprinde două fibule de tip Almgren 82 mai mici, un cercel pierdut, şapte verigi şi patru denari republicani. Alte obiecte scoase la lumină în 1949 au fost descoperite izolat. Unele dintre aceste obiecte oferă indicii consistente pentru prelucrarea locală a metalelor preţioase în faza târzie de ocupare a sitului (a doua jumătate a secolului I p. Chr. şi începutul secolului al II‑lea p. Chr.). Cele patru fibule de tip Almgren 82 din argint se adaugă celor peste patru duzini de fibule similare atestate până acum la Poiana. Analogiile supraregionale ale fibulelor Almgren 82 de la Poiana reflectă, fie şi numai în parte, importanţa acestui centru ca nod al unei vaste reţele supraregionale care conectau Imperiul şi stepa.