bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teacher Views on Teaching Sustainability in Higher Education Institutes in Australia
Authors: Shah Zawar , Kennedy-Clark Shannon , Xie Yancong , Rahim Md Shamsur , Mahdavi Mehregan , Levula Andrew
Published: July 2022

Higher education for sustainable development (HESD) plays a key role in achieving the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This research study specifically examined HESD in terms of eLearning initiatives in Australian private higher education providers from the perspective of teachers. A qualitative structured interview method was adopted wherein 10 teachers were interviewed in order to gain an understanding of their general knowledge of HESD, their attitudes and experience towards HESD, their teaching practices related to HESD, and their understandings of strategy as well as planning initiatives for their institution. The main findings suggest that (1) teachers in private higher education providers tend to have a limited knowledge of sustainability concepts and limited experience in teaching sustainability; (2) eLearning can be a valuable approach in teaching sustainability, but this approach presents teachers with challenges such as student engagement; and (3) private higher education providers require proper resources and governance frameworks in order for any sustainability initiative to be successful. This research highlights the resourcing aspect of private higher education providers in training staff, developing learning materials, and developing practical guidelines to achieve the SDGs by 2030.
Mechanical Properties, Durability and Leaching Toxicity of Cement-Stabilized Macadam Incorporating Reclaimed Clay Bricks as Fine Aggregate
Authors: Zhang Ermao , Wang Xirui , Wang Wensheng , Wang Haoyun
Published: July 2022

The utilization of reclaimed clay brick (RCB) from construction and demolition (C&D) waste is an extremely troublesome problem, which is beneficial and necessary for environmental protection and resource conservation. The objective of this study is to evaluate the mechanical properties, durability and environmental impact of cement-stabilized macadam (CSM) incorporating RCB. The physical and chemical properties of RCB were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) technologies. RCB exhibited a porous surface micro-morphology, high water absorption and pozzolanic activity. The higher RCB substitution ratio resulted in a lower unconfined compressive strength of CSM. Meanwhile, the higher the RCB substitution ratio was, the larger the 90 d indirect tensile strength of CSM at the late curing period. The RCB substitution ratio within 50% was beneficial for the freeze-thaw resistance of CSM. Additionally, RCB had a smaller aggregate size, causing a negative influence on the anti-scouring property of CSM. CSM incorporating RCB had an overall increasing accumulative water loss rate, and average coefficients of dry shrinkage and temperature shrinkage, except that 20% RCB substitution ratio resulted in an excellent dry shrinkage property. Based on the chemical analysis of EDTA-2Na, the pozzolanic RCB reacted mainly at later curing to form the crystal structure, enhancing the interfacial transition zone. Additionally, the leaching solutions could meet the identification requirements for extraction toxicity, surface water and groundwater referring to Chinese standards. Utilizing RCB in road engineering as the substitute for natural aggregate would be a promising step forward to sustainable development and green construction.
Recovering from Financial Implications of Flood Impacts—The Role of Risk Transfer in the West African Context
Authors: Wagner Simon , Thiam Sophie , Dossoumou Nadège I. P. , Hagenlocher Michael , Souvignet Maxime , Rhyner Jakob
Published: July 2022

In many West African river basins, households regularly experience floods and the associated impacts. In the absence of widely accessible formal risk transfer mechanisms (e.g., insurance), households often have to cope with financial impacts. Only a few studies have explored the financial effects of floods on agriculture-dependent households in the region and the role formal and informal risk transfer plays in their mitigation. This study addresses this gap, explores flood impacts with financial implications for households, and researches the existing strategies to mitigate them. Moreover, it aims to better understand how different measures influence the recovery process. The study draws on primary data from a household survey (n = 744) in the Lower Mono River basin, combined with stakeholder workshops and semi-structured interviews, and applies a generalized linear model to the survey data. The results reveal four flood impact types with financial implications: agricultural, material, health, and trade. Moreover, a shortened recovery time is significantly associated with assistance from savings groups and cooperatives—groups originally not formed to help during floods. In light of the severe and frequent flood impacts, effective and publicly accepted adaptation measures are needed to enable favorable conditions for creating sustainable and accessible risk transfer mechanisms.
Incorporating Fuzzy Cognitive Inference for Vaccine Hesitancy Measuring
Authors: Sun Kun , Zhao Tian-Fang , Wu Xiao-Kun , Lai Kai-Sheng , Chen Wei-Neng , Zhang Jin-Sheng
Published: July 2022

Vaccine hesitancy plays a key role in vaccine delay and refusal, but its measurement is still a challenge due to multiple intricacies and uncertainties in factors. This paper attempts to tackle this problem through fuzzy cognitive inference techniques. Firstly, we formulate a vaccine hesitancy determinants matrix containing multi-level factors. Relations between factors are formulated through group decision-making of domain experts, which results in a fuzzy cognitive map. The subjective uncertainty of linguistic variables is expressed by fuzzy numbers. A double-weighted method is designed to integrate the distinguished decisions, in which the subjective hesitancy is considered for each decision. Next, three typical scenarios are constructed to identify key and sensitive factors under different experimental conditions. The experimental results are further discussed, which enrich the approaches of vaccine hesitancy estimation for the post-pandemic global recovery.
Valorization of Coffee Silverskin through Subcritical Water Extraction: An Optimization Based on T-CQA Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Ginting Agita Rachmala , Kit Thavy , Mingvanish Withawat , Thanasupsin Sudtida Pliankarom
Published: July 2022

Coffee silverskin (CS) is the only byproduct of the roasting process for coffee beans and is rich in phenolic compounds with various bioactivities. This study proposes a valorization option for bioactive compounds (T-CQA) based on a subcritical water extraction (SWE) technique, which is known for its high efficiency and feasibility for use on an industrial scale. The use of water as a sole solvent requires a minimum number of cleaning steps and renders the extract safe for further applications, such as in either the cosmetic or food industry. Response surface methodology with a Box–Behnken design is effectively used to optimize and explain the individual and interactive process variables (i.e., extraction temperature, extraction time, and solid–liquid ratio) on the T-CQA content obtained from coffee silverskin by the SWE technique. The final model exhibits a precise prediction of the experimental data obtained for the maximum T-CQA content. Under the optimum conditions, the CS extract is found to contain a higher content of T-CQA and TPC than that reported previously. For antioxidant activity, up to 26.12 ± 3.27 mg Trolox equivalent/g CS is obtained.
Power System Planning Assessment for Optimizing Renewable Energy Integration in the Maluku Electricity System
Authors: Tumiran Tumiran , Putranto Lesnanto Multa , Irnawan Roni , Sarjiya Sarjiya , Nugraha Candra Febri , Priyanto Adi , Savitri Ira
Published: July 2022

The planning of electrical power systems in remote island areas poses a few challenges, such as requiring many load centers, various energy sources, and certain geographical conditions, which leads to inefficiencies in energy production. For this reason, it is necessary to plan an electrical transmission system to efficiently transfer the power between load centers. Previous research has found that the completion of the most economical power system will be achieved in 2050 on the condition that the Ambon, Seram, Haruku, and Saparua (Ambon-SHS) systems are interconnected in 2025. Providing complementary support, this paper conducts a power system analysis to assess the proposed interconnection system in Maluku Island, which has several islands, small load centers, and local renewable energy resources. The power system analysis was performed using DIgSILENT PowerFactory and was carried out every 5 years of the system planning period until 2050. The results show that the design of the obtained transmission system meets the standard security criteria, which include thermal loading and voltage, being under both normal and N-1 contingency conditions, a short-circuit current, voltage stability, frequency stability, and transient stability. Finally, this paper demonstrates that the proposed plan is economically and technically feasible.
Effects of Land Use Change on Rainfall Erosion in Luojiang River Basin, China
Authors: He Ji , Wan Yu-Rong , Chen Hai-Tao , Wang Song-Lin
Published: July 2022

This paper, based on daily rainfall erosivity model, ArcGIS, trend analysis and Kriging interpolation method, analyzed the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of rainfall erosivity in the Luojiang River Basin of China, and then explored the influence relationship between land use change types and rainfall erosivity potential. The results showed the following: (1) from 1980 to 2019, the distribution range of multi-annual rainfall erosivity in the Luojiang River Basin was 14,674–15,227 MJ·mm/ (hm2·h), with an average value of 14,102 MJ·mm/(hm2·h), showing an overall increasing trend; (2) the spatial distribution of rainfall erosivity value tends to be consistent with the multi-year average rainfall, showing a decreasing trend from the middle to the periphery of the basin; (3) land use change is an important factor affecting the spatial and temporal distribution characteristic of rainfall erosivity value in the basin. The increase in rainfall erosivity will undoubtedly increase the potential of soil erosion. This study can provide theoretical reference for future basin land use planning and put forward preventive suggestions according to the distribution characteristics of rainfall erosivity.
A Review of Three-Dimensional Facial Asymmetry Analysis Methods
Authors: Zhu Yujia , Zhao Yijiao , Wang Yong
Published: July 2022

Three-dimensional symmetry and coordination are important factors in facial aesthetics, and analysis of facial asymmetry is the basis for clinical diagnosis, treatment, and doctor–patient communication. With the development of three-dimensional measurement and data analysis technology, facial asymmetry analysis methods are mainly based on facial anatomic landmarks, original-mirror alignment algorithm, facial anthropometric mask, and artificial intelligence. This review summarizes the methods of three-dimensional facial asymmetry analysis, and current research progress in the field. The advantages and limitations of various methods are analyzed and discussed to provide a reference for oral clinical application.
Identification of the Ignition Point of High Voltage Cable Trenches Based on Ceiling Temperature Distribution
Authors: Yang Hongmin , Zou Liang , Song Zhiping , Wang Xiaolong , Sun Ying , Duan Yubing
Published: July 2022

With the improvement of the development level of power systems, high voltage cable trenches are being widely used in power systems. The high voltage cable trench is characteristically strongly sealed, which makes it difficult to find a fire in the trench. In order to judge the development of an early cable fire, the relationship between the ceiling temperature distribution and the location of cable ignition points was studied. According to the idea of symmetry, this paper adopts the experimental method of symmetrical double ignition points, carries out several groups of longitudinally symmetrical cable fire combustion experiments with high voltage cable trenches as the carrier, and establishes an equation for calculating the fitness of the relationship between the ceiling temperature and the distance from the ignition point. The results show that the temperature measurement results of the 1:1 high voltage cable trench experimental platform are accurate; in the longitudinal direction, the ceiling temperature decreases from the ignition point to both sides, and the temperature change curve has obvious stage characteristics; within a range of 5 m from the expected ignition point, the average identification accuracy reaches 97.0%. In the early stage of a substation cable trench fire, the two-point temperature measurement and ignition point identification method of high voltage cable trenches based on ceiling temperature distribution proposed in this paper can effectively identify the location of the ignition point along the longitudinal direction of cable trench.
In Vitro Assessment of Pesticides Toxicity and Data Correlation with Pesticides Physicochemical Properties for Prediction of Toxicity in Gastrointestinal and Skin Contact Exposure
Authors: Silva Amélia M. , Martins-Gomes Carlos , Silva Tânia L. , Coutinho Tiago E. , Souto Eliana B. , Andreani Tatiana
Published: July 2022

In this work, three pesticides of different physicochemical properties, namely, glyphosate (herbicide), imidacloprid (insecticide) and imazalil (fungicide), were selected to assess their cytotoxicity against distinct cell models (Caco-2, HepG2, A431, HaCaT, SK-MEL-5 and RAW 264.7 cells) to mimic gastrointestinal and skin exposure with potential systemic effect. Cells were subjected to different concentrations of selected pesticides for 24 h or 48 h. Cell viability was assessed by Alamar Blue assay, morphological changes by bright-field microscopy and the IC50 values were calculated. Cytotoxic profiles were analysed using the physico-chemical parameters of the pesticides, namely: molecular weight, water solubility, the partition coefficient in the n-octanol/water (Log Pow) system, the topological polar surface area (TPSA), and number of hydrogen-bonds (donor/acceptor) and rotatable bonds. Results showed that glyphosate did not reduce cell viability (up to 1 mM), imidacloprid induced moderate toxicity (IC50 > 1 mM for Caco-2 cells while IC50 = 305.9 ± 22.4 μM for RAW 264.7 cells) and imazalil was highly cytotoxic (IC50 > 253.5 ± 3.37 for Caco-2 cells while IC50 = 31.3 ± 2.7 μM for RAW 264.7 cells) after 24 h exposure. Toxicity was time-dependent as IC50 values at 48 h exposure were lower, and decrease in cell viability was accompanied by changes in cell morphology. Pesticides toxicity was found to be directly proportional with their Log Pow, indicating that the affinity to a lipophilic environment such as the cell membranes governs their toxicity. Toxicity is inverse to pesticides TPSA, but lower TPSA favours membrane permeation. The lower toxicity against Caco-2 cells was attributed to the physiology and metabolism of cell barriers equipped with various ABC transporters. In conclusion, physicochemical factors such as Log Pow, TPSA and H-bond are likely to be directly correlated with pesticide-induced toxicity, thus being key factors to potentially predict the toxicity of other compounds.
Phenotypic and Transcriptomics Analyses Reveal Underlying Mechanisms in a Mouse Model of Corneal Bee Sting
Authors: Wang Yanzi , Kang Honghua , Jin Mengyi , Wang Guoliang , Ma Weifang , Liu Zhen , Xue Yuhua , Li Cheng
Published: July 2022

Corneal bee sting (CBS) is one of the most common ocular traumas and can lead to blindness. The ophthalmic manifestations are caused by direct mechanical effects of bee stings, toxic effects, and host immune responses to bee venom (BV); however, the underlying pathogenesis remains unclear. Clinically, topical steroids and antibiotics are routinely used to treat CBS patients but the specific drug targets are unknown; therefore, it is imperative to study the pathological characteristics, injury mechanisms, and therapeutic targets involved in CBS. In the present study, a CBS injury model was successfully established by injecting BV into the corneal stroma of healthy C57BL/6 mice. F-actin staining revealed corneal endothelial cell damage, decreased density, skeletal disorder, and thickened corneal stromal. The terminal-deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay showed apoptosis of both epithelial and endothelial cells. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that cytokine–cytokine interactions were the most relevant pathway for pathogenesis. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis showed that IL-1, TNF, and IL-6 were the most relevant nodes. RNA-seq after the application of Tobradex® (0.3% tobramycin and 0.1% dexamethasone) eye ointment showed that Tobradex® not only downregulated relevant inflammatory factors but also reduced corneal pain as well as promoted nerve regeneration by repairing axons. Here, a stable and reliable model of CBS injury was successfully established for the first time, and the pathogenesis of CBS and the therapeutic targets of Tobradex® are discussed. These hub genes are expected to be biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the diagnosis and treatment of CBS.
Exploring the Utility of ssDNA Aptamers Directed against Snake Venom Toxins as New Therapeutics for Snakebite Envenoming
Authors: Alomran Nessrin , Chinnappan Raja , Alsolaiss Jaffer , Casewell Nicholas R. , Zourob Mohammed
Published: July 2022

Snakebite is a neglected tropical disease that causes considerable death and disability in the tropical world. Although snakebite can cause a variety of pathologies in victims, haemotoxic effects are particularly common and are typically characterised by haemorrhage and/or venom-induced consumption coagulopathy. Antivenoms are the mainstay therapy for treating the toxic effects of snakebite, but despite saving thousands of lives annually, these therapies are associated with limited cross-snake species efficacy due to venom variation, which ultimately restricts their therapeutic utility to particular geographical regions. In this study, we sought to explore the potential of ssDNA aptamers as toxin-specific inhibitory alternatives to antibodies. As a proof of principle model, we selected snake venom serine protease toxins, which are responsible for contributing to venom-induced coagulopathy following snakebite envenoming, as our target. Using SELEX technology, we selected ssDNA aptamers against recombinantly expressed versions of the fibrinogenolytic SVSPs ancrod from the venom of C. rhodostoma and batroxobin from B. atrox. From the resulting pool of specific ssDNA aptamers directed against each target, we identified candidates that exhibited low nanomolar binding affinities to their targets. Downstream aptamer-linked immobilised sorbent assay, fibrinogenolysis, and coagulation profiling experiments demonstrated that the candidate aptamers were able to recognise native and recombinant SVSP toxins and inhibit the toxin- and venom-induced prolongation of plasma clotting times and the consumption of fibrinogen, with inhibitory potencies highly comparable to commercial polyvalent antivenoms. Our findings demonstrate that rationally selected toxin-specific aptamers can exhibit broad in vitro cross-reactivity against toxin isoforms found in different snake venoms and are capable of inhibiting toxins in pathologically relevant in vitro and ex vivo models of venom activity. These data highlight the potential utility of ssDNA aptamers as novel toxin-inhibiting therapeutics of value for tackling snakebite envenoming.
Effect of Fumonisin B1 on Proliferation and Apoptosis of Intestinal Porcine Epithelial Cells
Authors: Wang Tianjie , Lei Hongyu , Zhou Lihua , Tang Meiwen , Liu Qing , Long Feng , Li Qing , Su Jianming
Published: July 2022

Fumonisin B1 (FB1), which is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium moniliforme and Fusarium rotarum, has a number of toxic effects in animals. Moldy feed containing FB1 can damage the intestine. In this study, we used intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) as an in vitro model to explore the effects of FB1 on cell cycle and apoptosis. The results showed that IPEC-J2 cells treated with 10, 20, and 40 μg/mL FB1 for 48 h experienced different degrees of damage manifested as decreases in cell number and viability, as well as cell shrinkage and floating. In addition, FB1 reduced cell proliferation and the mRNA and protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), CDK4, cyclinD1, and cyclinE1. FB1 blocked the cell cycle in the G1 phase. FB1 also induced mitochondrial pathway apoptosis, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, and promoted mRNA and protein expression of Caspase3, Caspase9, and Bax. The findings suggest that FB1 can induce IPEC-J2 cell damage, block the cell cycle, and promote cell apoptosis.
Periodic Variations of Solar Corona Index during 1939–2020
Authors: Tang Rui , Fei Yu , Li Chun , Liu Wen , Tian Xinan , Wan Zhongjie
Published: July 2022

Periodic behaviors of solar magnetic indicators might provide a clue for the understanding of solar dynamic processes. Combining with a Lomb–Scargle periodogram, the concentration of frequency and time via a multitapered synchrosqueezed transform is applied to investigate the periodic variations of modified coronal index for the time interval from 1 January 1939 to 31 August 2020. The main results are as follows: (1) During solar cycles 19 to 23, the Schwabe cycle of the modified coronal index is operating with its length variating between 10.5 and 11-yr, and the average value of length is 10.67-yr with standard deviation of 0.14-yr. (2) The Rieger-type periods are mainly distributed in a range from 120 to 200 days. In addition, the periods vary somewhat intermittently during cycles 18 to 24, which are operating with the highest power in cycles 21 and 22 while the power is much lower in cycles 23 and 24. (3) For rotation periods, the temporal variation exhibits a highly intermittent pattern as an asymmetrical distribution with its 25th, 50th, and 75th quantile of 26, 27.8, and 31-day, respectively. (4) Other mid-range periods are also detected with an average period length of 8.07, 5.44, 3.42, 2.3, and 1.01-yr.
Kinetics of the SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Avidity Response Following Infection and Vaccination
Authors: Garcia Laura , Woudenberg Tom , Rosado Jason , Dyer Adam H. , Donnadieu Françoise , Planas Delphine , Bruel Timothée , Schwartz Olivier , Prazuck Thierry , Velay Aurélie , Fafi-Kremer Samira , Batten Isabella , Reddy Conor , Connolly Emma , McElheron Matt , Kennelly Sean P. , Bourke Nollaig M. , White Michael T. , Pelleau Stéphane
Published: July 2022

Serological assays capable of measuring antibody responses induced by previous infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been critical tools in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we use bead-based multiplex assays to measure IgG and IgA antibodies and IgG avidity to five SARS-CoV-2 antigens (Spike (S), receptor-binding domain (RBD), Nucleocapsid (N), S subunit 2, and Membrane-Envelope fusion (ME)). These assays were performed in several cohorts of healthcare workers and nursing home residents, who were followed for up to eleven months after SARS-CoV-2 infection or up to six months after vaccination. Our results show distinct kinetic patterns of antibody quantity (IgG and IgA) and avidity. While IgG and IgA antibody levels waned over time, with IgA antibody levels waning more rapidly, avidity increased with time after infection or vaccination. These contrasting kinetic patterns allow for the estimation of time since previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. Including avidity measurements in addition to antibody levels in a classification algorithm for estimating time since infection led to a substantial improvement in accuracy, from 62% to 78%. The inclusion of antibody avidity in panels of serological assays can yield valuable information for improving serosurveillance during SARS-CoV-2 epidemics.
Pigeon Circovirus over Three Decades of Research: Bibliometrics, Scoping Review, and Perspectives
Authors: Silva Benji Brayan Ilagan , Urzo Michael Louie R. , Encabo Jaymee R. , Simbulan Alea Maurice , Lunaria Allen Jerard D. , Sedano Susan A. , Hsu Keng-Chih , Chen Chia-Chi , Tyan Yu-Chang , Chuang Kuo-Pin
Published: July 2022

The pigeon circovirus (PiCV), first described in the literature in the early 1990s, is considered one of the most important infectious agents affecting pigeon health. Thirty years after its discovery, the current review has employed bibliometric strategies to map the entire accessible PiCV-related research corpus with the aim of understanding its present research landscape, particularly in consideration of its historical context. Subsequently, developments, current knowledge, and important updates were provided. Additionally, this review also provides a textual analysis examining the relationship between PiCV and the young pigeon disease syndrome (YPDS), as described and propagated in the literature. Our examination revealed that usages of the term ‘YPDS’ in the literature are characterizations that are diverse in range, and neither standard nor equivalent. Guided by our understanding of the PiCV research corpus, a conceptualization of PiCV diseases was also presented in this review. Proposed definitions and diagnostic criteria for PiCV subclinical infection (PiCV-SI) and PiCV systemic disease (PiCV-SD) were also provided. Lastly, knowledge gaps and open research questions relevant to future PiCV-related studies were identified and discussed.
Allele-Specific Dual PCRs to Identify Members of the 27a Cluster of PPV
Authors: Tamás Vivien , Mészáros István , Olasz Ferenc , Kiss István , Homonnay Zalán G. , Mortensen Preben , Zádori Zoltán
Published: July 2022

Porcine Parvovirus (PPV) is one of the most important infectious agents causing severe reproductive failure in pigs. In the last two decades a particular, a novel genotype emerged in Europe and PPV-27a was named as the prototype of this genetic cluster. It was suggested that members of the PPV-27a cluster may adversely influence effective vaccination against PPV. For a reliable updated 27a definition, we aligned 93 databank-deposited partial or full nucleotide and protein sequences of the VP2 of different PPV isolates. We confirmed that the 27a cluster could indeed be distinguished from other members of the species, however, some divergences were identified compared to earlier defined genetic markers. Based on genetic differences, we developed a dual allele-specific polymerase chain reaction for the easy and quick discrimination of members of the 27a cluster from other PPV strains. The detection limit of dual PCR was found <1.66 × 104 copies/reaction. To sensitize and make it more user friendly, the method was further developed for qPCR application with fluorescent probes. Regarding the detection limit of the two PCRs (<1.66 × 104 copies/reaction of the dual PCR versus <2.40 × 102 copy/reaction of the dual qPCR), approximately two log improvement was achieved in the sensitivity of the method.
Efficacy of Western, Eastern, and Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis (WEVEE) Virus-Replicon Particle (VRP) Vaccine against WEEV in a Non-Human Primate Animal Model
Authors: Burke Crystal W. , Erwin-Cohen Rebecca A. , Goodson Aimee I. , Wilhelmsen Catherine , Edmundson Jennifer A. , White Charles E. , Glass Pamela J.
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the route of administration on the immunogenicity and efficacy of a combined western, eastern, and Venezuelan equine encephalitis (WEVEE) virus-like replicon particle (VRP) vaccine in cynomolgus macaques. The vaccine consisted of equal amounts of WEEV, EEEV, and VEEV VRPs. Thirty-three animals were randomly assigned to five treatment or control groups. Animals were vaccinated with two doses of WEVEE VRPs or the control 28 days apart. Blood was collected 28 days following primary vaccination and 21 days following boost vaccination for analysis of the immune response to the WEVEE VRP vaccine. NHPs were challenged by aerosol 28 or 29 days following second vaccination with WEEV CBA87. Vaccination with two doses of WEVEE VRP was immunogenic and resulted in neutralizing antibody responses specific for VEEV, EEEV and WEEV. None of the vaccinated animals met euthanasia criteria following aerosol exposure to WEEV CBA87. However, one NHP control (total of 11 controls) met euthanasia criteria after infection with WEEV CBA87. Statistically significant differences in median fever hours were noted in control NHPs compared to vaccinated NHPs, providing a quantitative measure of infection and efficacy of the vaccine against a WEEV challenge. Alterations in lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils were observed. Lymphopenia was observed in control NHPs.
Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection: An Update
Authors: Saitta Carlo , Pollicino Teresa , Raimondo Giovanni
Published: July 2022

Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (OBI) refers to a condition in which replication-competent viral DNA is present in the liver (with detectable or undetectable HBV DNA in the serum) of individuals testing negative for the HBV surface antigen (HBsAg). In this peculiar phase of HBV infection, the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) is in a low state of replication. Many advances have been made in clarifying the mechanisms involved in such a suppression of viral activity, which seems to be mainly related to the host’s immune control and epigenetic factors. OBI is diffused worldwide, but its prevalence is highly variable among patient populations. This depends on different geographic areas, risk factors for parenteral infections, and assays used for HBsAg and HBV DNA detection. OBI has an impact in several clinical contexts: (a) it can be transmitted, causing a classic form of hepatitis B, through blood transfusion or liver transplantation; (b) it may reactivate in the case of immunosuppression, leading to the possible development of even fulminant hepatitis; (c) it may accelerate the progression of chronic liver disease due to different causes toward cirrhosis; (d) it maintains the pro-oncogenic properties of the “overt” infection, favoring the development of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Translation of SARS-CoV-2 gRNA Is Extremely Efficient and Competitive despite a High Degree of Secondary Structures and the Presence of an uORF
Authors: Condé Lionel , Allatif Omran , Ohlmann Théophile , de Breyne Sylvain
Published: July 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 infection generates up to nine different sub-genomic mRNAs (sgRNAs), in addition to the genomic RNA (gRNA). The 5′UTR of each viral mRNA shares the first 75 nucleotides (nt.) at their 5′end, called the leader, but differentiates by a variable sequence (0 to 190 nt. long) that follows the leader. As a result, each viral mRNA has its own specific 5′UTR in term of length, RNA structure, uORF and Kozak context; each one of these characteristics could affect mRNA expression. In this study, we have measured and compared translational efficiency of each of the ten viral transcripts. Our data show that most of them are very efficiently translated in all translational systems tested. Surprisingly, the gRNA 5′UTR, which is the longest and the most structured, was also the most efficient to initiate translation. This property is conserved in the 5′UTR of SARS-CoV-1 but not in MERS-CoV strain, mainly due to the regulation imposed by the uORF. Interestingly, the translation initiation mechanism on the SARS-CoV-2 gRNA 5′UTR requires the cap structure and the components of the eIF4F complex but showed no dependence in the presence of the poly(A) tail in vitro. Our data strongly suggest that translation initiation on SARS-CoV-2 mRNAs occurs via an unusual cap-dependent mechanism.
SARS-CoV-2 Testing of Aircraft Wastewater Shows That Mandatory Tests and Vaccination Pass before Boarding Did Not Prevent Massive Importation of Omicron Variant into Europe
Authors: Le Targa Lorlane , Wurtz Nathalie , Lacoste Alexandre , Penant Gwilherm , Jardot Priscilla , Annessi Alexandre , Colson Philippe , La Scola Bernard , Aherfi Sarah
Published: July 2022

Background: Most new SARS-CoV-2 epidemics in France occurred following the importation from abroad of emerging viral variants. Currently, the risk of new variants being imported is controlled based on a negative screening test (PCR or antigenic) and proof of up-to-date vaccine status, such as the International Air Transport Association travel pass. Methods: The wastewater from two planes arriving in Marseille (France) from Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) in December 2021 was tested by RT-PCR to detect SARS-CoV2 and screen for variants. These tests were carried out between landing and customs clearance and were then sequenced by MiSeq Illumina. Antigenic tests and sequencing by NovaSeq were carried out on respiratory samples collected from the 56 passengers on the second flight. Results: SARS-CoV-2 RNA suspected of being from the Omicron BA.1 variant was detected in the aircraft’s wastewater. SARS-CoV2 RNA was detected in 11 [20%) passengers and the Omicron BA.1 variant was identified. Conclusion: Our work shows the efficiency of aircraft wastewater testing to detect SARS-CoV-2 cases among travellers and to identify the viral genotype. It also highlights the low efficacy of the current control strategy for flights entering France from outside Europe, which combines a requirement to produce a vaccine pass and proof of a negative test before boarding.
Neutralization Activity against SARS-CoV-2 Variants after Booster Vaccination in Populations without COVID-19: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cheng Haoyue , Peng Zhicheng , Si Shuting , Alifu Xialidan , Zhou Haibo , Chi Peihan , Zhuang Yan , Mo Minjia , Yu Yunxian
Published: July 2022

A number of SARS-CoV-2 variants that have evolved to have significant immune escape have emerged worldwide since the COVID-19 outbreak. The efficacy of prime vaccination is waning with the evolution of SARS-CoV-2, and the necessity of booster doses is more and more prominent. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the neutralization activity against the wild type and variants (Beta, Delta, and Omicron) in different prime–boost vaccination regimens. Electronic databases including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, medRxiv, Wanfang and CNKI were used to retrieve original studies. A total of 16 studies, 9 prime–boost vaccination regimes, and 3134 subjects were included in the meta-analysis and random effect models were used to estimate pooled neutralization titers. The neutralization activity against SARS-CoV-2 showed a significant decline with the evolution of the virus, especially in the populations primed with inactivated vaccines. For homologous immunization, only the populations boosted with mRNA vaccines consistently had a significant rise in neutralization titers (Beta: MD = 0.97; Delta: MD = 1.33; Omicron: MD = 0.74). While the heterologous immunization was more effective, the increment of neutralization titers against wild type, Beta, Delta and Omicron was 1.65 (95% CI: 1.32–1.96), 1.03 (95% CI: 0.53–1.54), 1.46 (95% CI: 1.07–1.85) and 1.15 (95% CI: 0.68–1.61), respectively. With the evolution of SARS-CoV-2, the effectiveness of prime immunization is waning. Although the administration of the booster dose could ameliorate the neutralization titers, homologous immunization regimens were gradually losing their effectiveness. Therefore, a heterologous booster dose is required, especially in populations primed with inactivated vaccines.
Analysis of Regulatory Framework for Produced Water Management and Reuse in Major Oil- and Gas-Producing Regions in the United States
Authors: Jiang Wenbin , Lin Lu , Xu Xuesong , Wang Huiyao , Xu Pei
Published: July 2022

The rapid development of unconventional oil and gas (O&G) extraction around the world produces a significant amount of wastewater that requires appropriate management and disposal. Produced water (PW) is primarily disposed of through saltwater disposal wells, and other reuse/disposal methods include using PW for hydraulic fracturing, enhanced oil recovery, well drilling, evaporation ponds or seepage pits within the O&G field, and transferring PW offsite for management or reuse. Currently, 1–2% of PW in the U.S. is used outside the O&G field after treatment. With the considerable interest in PW reuse to reduce environmental implications and alleviate regional water scarcity, it is imperative to analyze the current regulatory framework for PW management and reuse. In the U.S., PW is subject to a complex set of federal, state, and sometimes local regulations to address the wide range of PW management, construction, and operation practices. Under the supervision of the U.S. Environment Protection Agency (U.S. EPA), different states have their own regulatory agencies and requirements based on state-specific practices and laws. This study analyzed the regulatory framework in major O&G-producing regions surrounding the management of PW, including relevant laws and jurisdictional illustrations of water rules and responsibilities, water quality standards, and PW disposal and current/potential beneficial reuse up to early 2022. The selected eastern states (based on the 98th meridian designated by the U.S. EPA as a tool to separate discharge permitting) include the Appalachian Basin (Marcellus and Utica shale areas of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia), Oklahoma, and Texas; and the western states include California, Colorado, New Mexico, and Wyoming. These regions represent different regulations; climates; water quantities; quality diversities; and geologic, geographic, and hydrologic conditions. This review is particularly focused on the water quality standards, reuse practices and scenarios, risks assessment, knowledge gaps, and research needs for the potential reuse of treated PW outside of O&G fields. Given the complexity surrounding PW regulations and rules, this study is intended as preliminary guidance for PW management, and for identifying the knowledge gaps and research needs to reduce the potential impacts of treated PW reuse on the environment and public health. The regulations and experiences learned from these case studies would significantly benefit other states and countries with O&G sources for the protection of their environment and public health.
Attracting the Private Sector to Urban Stormwater: A Feasible Task or Just a Pipe Dream?
Authors: Novaes Carlos , Marques Rui
Published: July 2022

Private sector participation (PSP) in stormwater drainage and management systems is desirable for two reasons: firstly, for its capacity to contribute resources, allowing existing public budgets to be used for other purposes, and secondly for its capacity to introduce management efficiency. Despite the apparent simplicity of this conceptualization, in practice, such participation does not occur simply out of a desire to improve service delivery. Private and public partners have their interests, which are, on the private side, the profit margins and deadlines for return on investments, and on the public side, representing society, the obligations of equity, universality, continuity, and the sustainability of service provision and infrastructure. Reconciling these often-contradictory aspects requires complex and sophisticated political, institutional, organizational and regulatory structures aligned to provide incentives, resources, and involves everyone. Without exhausting the subject, this article addresses several aspects related to the attractiveness and participation of private initiatives in urban stormwater management and discusses some international examples with a special focus on Brazil.
Study on the Remote Sensing Spectral Method for Disaster Loss Inversion in Urban Flood Areas
Authors: Duan Chenfei , Zheng Xiazhong , Jin Lianghai , Chen Yun , Li Rong , Yang Yingliu
Published: July 2022

To address the problems of traditional hydrological and hydraulic methods of estimating disasters in urban flood areas, such as small scale, poor timeliness, and difficulty of obtaining data, an inversion method of estimating urban flood disaster area based on remote sensing spectroscopy is proposed. In this paper, the spatial distribution of urban flood disasters is first inverted based on large-scale multidimensional remote sensing spectral orthography. Then, spatial coupling inversion of the remote sensing spectrum-urban economy-flood disaster is performed by simulating the urban economic density through single spectral remote sensing at night. Finally, losses at the urban flood area are estimated. The results show that (1) the heavy rain in Henan Province on 20 July is centered in Zhengzhou, and the spatial distribution of urban flood disasters accords with Zipf’s law; (2) the estimated damage to the urban flood area in Henan Province is 132,256 billion yuan, and Zhengzhou has the most serious losses at 43,147 billion yuan, accounting for 32.6% of the entire province’s losses. These results are consistent with the official data (accuracy ≥ 90%, R2 ≥ 0.95). This study can provide a new approach for accurately and efficiently estimating urban flood damage at a large scale.
Performance Assessment of Concrete Using Discarded Membrane Filter Materials
Authors: Park Sehwan , Kim Junkyeong
Published: July 2022

Currently, membrane filters, which need to be replaced regularly as they get worn, are used in filtration facilities globally. The old membrane filters and housings become continuous industrial waste and are currently 100% incinerated. To solve this environmental problem, this study proposes the development of an eco-friendly concrete by mixing waste membrane resources with concrete. Through this, the environmental pollution and wastage of resources due to incineration, and the enormous amount of carbon dioxide generated during cement production, can be decreased by reducing the cement required when mixing concrete. To this end, the membrane module outer surface (acrylic butadiene styrene, ABS) and inner membrane (poly vinylidene fluoride, PVDF) were extracted from the waste membrane system and pulverized. Different mix ratios of 1%, 3%, and 5% for replacing cement were used when mixing concrete. The test specimens were then tested and compared with the reference concrete (ordinary Portland cement) specimen. It was confirmed that the compressive strength was high after 28 days in all the specimens to which ABS was added at 1%, 3%, and 5% mix ratios. Therefore, the possibility of technological development of eco-friendly concrete using waste resources from membrane filtration facilities was verified.
The Inland Water Copepod Fauna of a Traditional Rural Landscape in a Mediterranean Island (Crustacea, Copepoda)
Authors: Marchese Marta , Vecchioni Luca , Bazan Giuseppe , Arculeo Marco , Marrone Federico
Published: July 2022

Although the Mediterranean area is a well-known hotspot of biological diversity, the crustacean assemblages inhabiting inland waters of the Mediterranean islands are to date unevenly known, and detailed information is missing for most taxa and areas. In the frame of this paper, we provide a checklist and a characterization of the copepod fauna of the lentic water bodies occurring in a traditional rural landscape of Sicily, where the co-existence of agriculture, woodlands, and pastoral activities lead to the presence of a wide range of different aquatic habitats. Overall, 22 copepod species belonging to the orders Calanoida, Cyclopoida, and Harpacticoida have been found in the 92 surveyed sites, stressing the conservation value of the area. In the study area, species widespread in the west Palaearctic region co-exist with strictly Mediterranean elements and a small but biogeographically significant group of species with northern or Balkan affinities, which support the role of the investigated area as a refugium for species that colonised Sicily during Pleistocene climate fluctuations and are now restricted to the more wet parts of the island. A single non-native species has been found, and its distribution is currently limited to permanent, man-made reservoirs.
Evaluation of Three High-Resolution Remote Sensing Precipitation Products on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yu Songbin , Lu Fan , Zhou Yuyan , Wang Xiaoyu , Wang Kangming , Song Xinyi , Zhang Ming
Published: July 2022

Remote sensing precipitation products provide rich data for ungauged basins. Evaluating the accuracy and detection capability of remote sensing precipitation products is crucial before application. In this study, an index system in terms of quantitative differences, capturing capacity and precipitation distribution was constructed to evaluate three precipitation products, TRMM 3B42 V7, GPM IMERGE Final and CMORPH V1.0, at various temporal and spatial scales on the Tibetan Plateau from 2001 to 2016. The results show that the correlations among the three products were larger at the monthly scale than at the annual scale. The lowest correlations between the products and observation data were found in December. GPM performed the best at the monthly and annual scales. Particularly, the GPM product presented the best capability of detection of both precipitation and non-precipitation events among the three products. All three precipitation products overestimated 0.1~1 mm/day precipitation, which occurred most frequently. An underestimation of precipitation at 10~20 mm/day was observed, and this intensity accounted for the majority of the precipitation. All three precipitation products showed an underestimation in terms of the annual maximum daily precipitation. The accuracy of the same product varied in different regions of the Tibetan Plateau, such as the south, the southeast, eastern–central region and the northeast, and there was a certain clustering of the accuracies of neighboring stations. GPM was superior to TRMM and CMORPH in the southern Tibetan Plateau, making it recommended for applications.
Advanced Techniques for Monitoring and Management of Urban Water Infrastructures—An Overview
Authors: Hangan Anca , Chiru Costin-Gabriel , Arsene Diana , Czako Zoltan , Lisman Dragos Florin , Mocanu Mariana , Pahontu Bogdan , Predescu Alexandru , Sebestyen Gheorghe
Published: July 2022

Water supply systems are essential for a modern society. This article presents an overview of the latest research related to information and communication technology systems for water resource monitoring, control and management. The main objective of our review is to show how emerging technologies offer support for smart administration of water infrastructures. The paper covers research results related to smart cities, smart water monitoring, big data, data analysis and decision support. Our evaluation reveals that there are many possible solutions generated through combinations of advanced methods. Emerging technologies open new possibilities for including new functionalities such as social involvement in water resource management. This review offers support for researchers in the area of water monitoring and management to identify useful models and technologies for designing better solutions.