bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiencing the Untouchable: A Method for Scientific Exploration and Haptic Fruition of Artworks Microsurface Based on Optical Scanning Profilometry
Authors: Mazzocato Sara , Daffara Claudia
Published: June 2021

The experience of an object derives not only from the sight but also from the touch: a tactile exploration can reveal the smallest information trapped within the surface up to our tactile detective threshold. Starting from the importance of this observation in the case of works of art, this research demonstrates the use of conoscopic holography sensors for high-quality acquisition of the surface of artworks (up to the micro-scale) suitable also to 3D printing. The purpose is twofold, allowing for the tactile use of the artwork, which is otherwise impossible, for visually impaired people and for new use in regard to scientific information purposes. In detail, the workflow to obtain a 3D printed replica of multiscale and polychrome artworks suitable for the haptic fruition is validated, but the potential of the tool as an innovative resource for scientific visualization of the microsurface of the artwork for conservation issues is also demonstrated. The validation was performed on notable Italian masterpieces, such as Donatello’s “Death Cristh” bronze relief in Padua and the Tintoretto painting “St. Martial in Glory with the Saints Peter and Paul” in Venice.
Transcription-Based Amplified Colorimetric Thrombin Sensor Using Non-Crosslinking Aggregation of DNA-Modified Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Muto Yu , Hirao Gen , Zako Tamotsu
Published: June 2021

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been employed as colorimetric biosensors due to the color difference between their dispersed (red) and aggregated (blue) states. Although signal amplification reactions triggered by structural changes of the ligands on AuNPs have been widely used to improve measurement sensitivity, the use of ligands is limited. In this study, we designed a AuNP-based signal-amplifying sandwich biosensor, which does not require a conformational change in the ligands. Thrombin was used as a model target, which is recognized by two different probes. In the presence of the target, an extension reaction occurs as a result of hybridization of the two probes. Then RNA synthesis is started by RNA polymerase activation due to RNA promoter duplex formation. The amplified RNA drives aggregation or dispersion of the AuNPs, and a difference of the color if the AuNP solution is observed. As this detection system does not require a conformational change in the ligand, it can be generically applied to a wide range ligands.
Predicting Airline Customer Loyalty by Integrating Structural Equation Modeling and Bayesian Networks
Authors: Chanpariyavatevong Kattreeya , Wipulanusat Warit , Champahom Thanapong , Jomnonkwao Sajjakaj , Chonsalasin Dissakoon , Ratanavaraha Vatanavongs
Published: June 2021

The aviation industry has grown rapidly worldwide and is struggling against intense competition. Especially in Thailand, the compound annual growth rate of passengers traveling by air has increased continuously over the past decade. Unfortunately, during the past two years, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused severe economic crises for nearly all businesses and industries, including the aviation industry and especially for passenger airlines whose number of customers has decreased astoundingly due to travel restriction. To maintain business stability, therefore, airlines must build customer loyalty to survive in times of crisis. This study thus examines critical factors’ impact on airline loyalty by using a Bayesian network (BN) derived from a structural equation modeling (SEM). The study integrates the SEM and BN to refine causal relationships between critical factors, identified as critical pathways. Findings reveal that customer satisfaction and customer trust, followed by perceived value, dramatically influence customer loyalty and so are considered priorities for building airlines’ customer loyalty. This study also recommends practical strategies and policies to improve customer loyalty amid the competitive airline business during and after the COVID-19 era.
Desirable Effects from Disturbance Ecology—A Paradox within Conservation Management
Authors: Davidsson Åsa , Johansson Magnus , Bonander Carl
Published: June 2021

The importance of natural disturbances for biodiversity is well-documented in the disturbance ecology literature. Natural disturbances such as fire, wind, and flooding strongly influence ecosystems by creating short and long-term ecological processes. Conservation management of protected areas should consider the importance of natural disturbances since natural shifts in ecosystems are, in a long-term perspective, necessary to maintain high biodiversity. The purpose of this study is to explore how and if natural disturbances are incorporated in the management of Swedish national parks and to identify possible examples of barriers for this incorporation. The design of the study is a multiple comparative case study based on a document study and completed with qualitative interviews. The cases consist of propositions and management plans for 15 Swedish national parks established between 1962 and 2018. The document analysis generated four main categories: historic/future and positive/negative perceptions of natural disturbances. The results indicate that there are positive perceptions concerning the inclusion of disturbance ecology in the management of national parks. However, there are also obstacles and challenges around natural disturbances within Swedish national parks. These obstacles are, in some cases, explained by practical implications such as the closeness to surrounding societies and in others explained by paradoxes such as visitors’ perceptions of national parks and the wilderness.
Paradox of Deadwood Circular Bioeconomy in Kenya’s Public Forests
Authors: Chisika Sylvester Ngome , Park Joon , Yeom Chunho
Published: June 2021

With the rising demand for energy, the forest-based circular bioeconomy is gaining recognition as a strategy for sustainable production and consumption of forest resources. However, the forest-based bioeconomy remains underexplored from the perspective of deadwood conservation in public forests. While conducting a literature review and examining the case of Kenya, this study fills a gap in the literature to provide policy suggestions for sustainable forest resource utilization. The results from global literature indicate that deadwood performs essential social, economic, and environmental functions in the circular bioeconomy and sustainable development. Similarly, in Kenya, deadwood resources provide many socially beneficial bioproducts and services. However, the absence of scientific research and detailed guidelines for deadwood conservation may lead to the distortion of the ecological balance in public forests because of the legally sanctioned removal of deadwood, particularly firewood. Moreover, if the status quo remains, with approximately 70% of the growing population consuming deadwood for domestic use and the demand increasing, as shown by the current wood deficit in the country, there will be a major dilemma concerning whether to conserve deadwood for biodiversity or energy. Therefore, averting crisis and providing maximum deadwood value to society requires guidelines and comprehensive research in addition to a cultural and behavioral shift in energy consumption in a manner that embraces the forest-based circular bioeconomy of deadwood.
Assessment of Groundwater Quality beneath Agriculturally Advanced Region of Northern Alluvial Plain, India
Authors: Gautam Anant , Rai Suresh Chand , Rai Shive Prakash
Published: June 2021

In the present study, groundwater suitability for domestic and irrigation purposes was analyzed in the alluvial aquifers of the Bist-Doab region of Punjab, India, using various indices such as WQI, WAWQI, MCDA, RSC, SAR, PI, %Na, KR, MH, PS, K, and Ka. Since it is difficult to assess the suitability of groundwater for irrigation based on various indices individually, a composite groundwater quality index for irrigation (CGQII) was used in the study which transforms nine indices to a single value for each sample. Results reveal that the groundwater of a few blocks was found unsuitable for domestic use due to chemical leaching from fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural and industrial wastes. Whereas, the groundwater of mainly southwestern parts was found unsuitable for irrigation due to long-term water accumulation in aquifers and continuous use of sodium-ion-rich groundwater. The findings conclude that anthropogenic activities have played a significant role in making groundwater unfit for domestic and irrigation purposes in the study area. The present study also emphasizes continuous monitoring and evaluation of groundwater quality, which will help in strategic planning and management for the conservation of groundwater resources in the region.
Impact of Entrepreneurial Leadership on Product Innovation Performance: Intervening Effect of Absorptive Capacity, Intra-Firm Networks, and Design Thinking
Authors: Rehman Khaliq Ur , Aslam Farhan , Mata Mário Nuno , Martins José Moleiro , Abreu António , Morão Lourenço António , Mariam Sabita
Published: June 2021

The main objective of this research is to investigate the nexus between entrepreneurial leadership and product innovation performance. In addition, the mediating mechanism of absorptive capacity, intra-firm networks, and design thinking through which entrepreneurial leaders influence product innovation performanceis also studied. The researcher contacted three hundred (300) plus firms; 157 firms showed a willingness to participate, and 96 firms provided the data with a response rate of 61.15%. Out of those 96 firms, the data from 71 firms were used for the final analysis, yielding an effective response rate of 45.22%. Only middle and top-level employees from the marketing and research & development departments from Pakistani firms were selected as respondents because these two departments are directly related to product innovation performance. To test the hypothesis, the Smart PLS-SEM technique wasused. The empirical analysis revealed that entrepreneurial leadership impacted product innovation performance through the mediating mechanism of design thinking, intra-firm networks, and absorptive capacity. The current research contributes to entrepreneurial leadership theory by proposing and empirically testing how entrepreneurial leaders affect product innovation performance.
FIRELAN—An Ecologically Based Planning Model towards a Fire Resilient and Sustainable Landscape. A Case Study in Center Region of Portugal
Authors: Magalhães Manuela R. , Cunha Natália S. , Pena Selma B. , Müller Ana
Published: June 2021

This paper explores the role of landscape planning as a tool for rural fire prevention. It presents a methodology for a fire resilient and sustainable landscape model (FIRELAN) that articulates the ecological and cultural components in a suitable and multifunction land-use plan. FIRELAN is a conceptual and ecologically based model that recognizes river basin’ land morphology, microclimate and species combustibility as the fundamental factors that determine fire behavior and landscape resilience, along with the ecological network (EN) for achieving ecological sustainability of the landscape. The model is constituted by the FIRELAN Network and the Complementary Areas. This network ensures the effectiveness of discontinuities in the landscape with less combustible land-uses. It also functions as a fire-retardant technique and protection of wildland-urban interface (WUI). This model is applied to municipalities from Portugal’s center region, a simplified landscape severely damaged by recurrent rural fires. The results show that land-use and tree species composition should change drastically, whereas about 72% of the case study needs transformation actions. This requires a significant increase of native or archaeophytes species, agricultural areas, landscape discontinuities and the restoration of biodiversity in Natura 2000 areas. The EN components are 79% of the FIRELAN N area, whose implementation ensures soil and water conservation, biodiversity and habitats. This paper contributes to the discussion of the Portuguese rural fires planning framework.
Future Food Sustainability Can Be Traced Back into Local People’s Socio-Cultural Roots in Uttarakhand Himalaya, India
Authors: Chakraborty Joyeeta Singh , Parida Bikash Ranjan , Singh Nilendu
Published: June 2021

Sustainable food system ensures adequate and safe food supply in an eco-friendly manner. We assessed food sustainability perception and practices of local community through structured interviews in sub-alpine settlements of Uttarakhand Himalaya. Major perceived challenges towards food sustainability were identified using Rank-Based Quotient analysis. Association with various socio-demographic factors (e.g., age, gender, education, socio-economy, and socio-culture) was tested. An overall neutral perception (mean score 2.9) and moderately sustainable practices (mean score 3.1) were observed. Respondents with higher socio-cultural score showed more sustainable food sourcing practices and more positive social and economic sustainability perception, as well as higher participatory willingness. Female respondents were more dependent on sustainable food sources than the males. Education level influenced food quality choice. People identified higher food production cost as major economic constraint; while small landholdings and labor migration were main social challenges. Land and water management issues and climate uncertainty were the major environmental constraints. Socio-cultural exposure played significant role in ranking these sustainability constraints. We encourage direct involvement of socio-culturally active people and conducting extensive outreach programs for future sustainable local food system in vulnerable Himalayan valleys.
The History and Driving Force for Prehistoric Human Expansion Upward to the Hinterland of the Tibetan Plateau Post–Last Glacial Maximum
Authors: Hou Guangliang , Dong Weimiao , Cai Linhai , Wang Qingbo , Qiu Menghan
Published: June 2021

The timing and motivation of prehistoric human expansion into the hinterland of the Tibetan Plateau (TP) is a widely debated scientific issue. Recent archaeological studies have brought forward predictions of the earliest human occupation of the TP to the late–Middle Pleistocene. However, massive human occupation of the TP did not appear until the termination of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). The spatio-temporal distribution of prehistoric hunter-gatherers on the TP varies significantly before the permanent occupation after 3600 BP (before present). Here, we report on environmental-archaeological evidence from the Canxionggashuo (CXGS) site in Yushu Prefecture, which provides information that is key to understanding the dynamics of post-LGM human occupation on the TP. Radiocarbon dating has revealed two occupation periods of the CXGS site at 8600–7100 cal (calibrated years) BP and 2400–2100 cal BP. The charcoal concentration in cultural layers correlates well with paleo–human activities. Hunter-gatherers expanded westwards from the northeastern margin of the TP to the hinterland of the TP during the warming period of the early–middle Holocene (~11,500–6000 BP). However, these groups retreated during the middle–late Holocene (~6000–3600 BP) under a cooling-drying climate. Prehistoric humans finally occupied the hinterland of the TP permanently after 3600 BP, with an enhanced cold-adaptive lifestyle, although the climate was still deteriorating.
An Overview on Railway Impacts on Coastal Environment and Beach Tourism in Sicily (Italy)
Authors: Cinelli Irene , Anfuso Giorgio , Privitera Sandro , Pranzini Enzo
Published: June 2021

The main aim of this paper is to analyze the development of the railway network in Sicily (Italy), where it runs close to the sea on two of the three sides of the island, and give an overview of the related impacts on coastal environment and tourism. In order to achieve such an objective, the impacts of the railway network were analyzed according to coastal typology (distinguishing between rocky and sandy coastal sectors) and distance from the shoreline (dividing distance values in concrete intervals). Rails were mostly emplaced in flat coastal areas due to the island’s rugged terrain: out of 1592 km of railway, ca. 350 km is located less than 1000 m from the shoreline (123 km on rocky sectors and 227 km on beaches and coastal plains). On sandy beaches and low sandy coastal sectors, approximately 6 km of track is within 25 m from the shoreline, a value rising to 16 km if a 50 m distance is considered, 48 km at 100 m and 103 km at 200 m distance. In correspondence of rocky platforms and high cliffed sectors, data reported for short distances between the rail and the shore are similar to ones observed along sandy coastal sectors, but differ when distance increases, i.e., there is only 32 and 47 km of railway respectively within 100 and 200 m from the shoreline. The emplacement of the railway embankment on beaches and dunes favored coastal squeeze and enhanced coastal erosion due to wave reflection on the embankment, which had to be protected by hard structures. Impacts on rocky sectors, with respect to beach and dune systems, are generally low because such sectors are usually stable (they do not need to be protected), less attractive to tourists and present small urban development. Tourism was affected by reducing landscape quality, beach access and width. More detailed studies and monitoring programs are necessary to locally assess the detailed impacts of the railway network, with this study constituting a preliminary but useful approximation to determine which coastal sectors are potentially the most affected. Results obtained in this paper can stimulate similar researches in other countries to prevent or decrease railway impacts on “Sun, Sea and Sand” tourism and, in general, on the coastal environment.
Household Harvesting, State Policy, and Migration: Evidence from the Survey of Living Conditions in the Arctic
Authors: Berman Matthew
Published: June 2021

Household harvesting of wild fish and game contributes to food security in indigenous communities across the Arctic, and in some regions plays an important role in cultural identity of indigenous peoples. The degree to which the state regulates harvesting and restricts distribution of country foods varies widely, however, and this intervention in local economies can affect livelihood opportunities. The paper hypothesizes that where state policy has contributed to harvesting remaining a culturally embedded livelihood strategy, its contribution to the quality of life may influence people to remain in rural communities, despite potentially lower material living standards. Lacking such a cultural linkage, harvesting may become the employer of last resort for people unable to find paying jobs or leave declining communities for a better life elsewhere. The paper examines the association between Survey of Living Conditions in the Arctic (SLiCA) respondents’ intent to remain in their community of residence and household harvesting, cash income from work, and other relevant factors. The results include both similarities and differences for residents of arctic Alaska, arctic Canada, Greenland, and Chukotka. Systematic differences found appear consistent with the hypothesis about the role of household harvesting and state policy toward harvest and distribution of country foods.
Information and Communications Technology Used in Higher Education: An Empirical Study on Digital Learning as Sustainability
Authors: Sayaf Amer Mutrik , Alamri Mahdi Mohammed , Alqahtani Mohammed Ayid , Al-Rahmi Waleed Mugahed
Published: June 2021

Teaching and learning are significantly influenced by information and communications technology (ICT). The goal of this study was to develop a new model and conduct confirmatory factor analysis to learn more about how students use ICT for digital learning as sustainability. The purpose of this research project was to investigate computer self-efficacy, computer anxiety, perceived enjoyment and acceptance of digital learning as sustainability at Saudi universities, based on students’ satisfaction with actual ICT usage for digital learning as sustainability. This research project made use of structural equation modelling with SEM-AMOS and an expanded variant of the technology acceptance model as the research model. A questionnaire based on the technology acceptance model and social cognitive theory was employed as the main data collection method and was distributed to 684 students from students at two universities. Students’ answers were categorized into seven categories and evaluated to determine how satisfied students were with ICT and how likely they were to continue using it for digital learning as sustainability. The findings revealed a connection between computer self-efficacy, computer anxiety and perceived enjoyment, factors which all played a significant role in perceived usefulness and ease of use. Perceived usefulness and ease of use also had an impact on students’ continued intention to use and satisfaction. This research-built model was effective in explaining students’ continued desire to use ICT and their satisfaction with it.
Environmental and Energy Implications of Meat Consumption Pathways in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Falchetta Giacomo , Golinucci Nicolò , Rocco Matteo Vincenzo
Published: June 2021

In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), diets are largely based on cereal or root staple crops. Together with socio-cultural change, economic and demographic growth could boost the demand for meat, with significant environmental repercussions. We model meat consumption pathways to 2050 for SSA based on several scenarios calibrated on historical demand drivers. To assess the consequent environmental impact, we adopt an environmentally-extended input-output (EEIO) framework and apply it on the EXIOBASE 3.3 hybrid tables. We find that, depending on the interplay of resources efficiency and demand growth, by 2050 the growth in meat consumption in SSA could cause a growth in greenhouse gases emissions of 1.4 [0.9–1.9] Gt CO2e/yr (~175% of current regional agriculture-related emissions), which is an extension of cropping and grazing-related land of 15 [12.5–21] · 106 km2 (one quarter of today’s global agricultural land), the consumption of an additional 36 [29–47] Gm3/yr of blue water (nearly doubling the current regional agricultural consumption), an eutrophication potential growth of 7.6 [4.9–9.5] t PO4e/yr, and the consumption of additional 0.9 [0.5–1.4] EJ/yr of fossil fuels and 49 [32–73] TWh/yr of electricity. These results suggest that—in the absence of significant improvements in the regional sectoral resource efficiency—meat demand growth in SSA is bound to become a major global sustainability challenge. In addition, we show that a partial substitution of the protein intake from the expected growth in meat consumption with plant-based alternatives carries additional significant potential for mitigating environmental impacts. The policies affecting both farming practices and dietary choices will thus have a significant impact on the SSA and global environmental flows.
A Study on the Relationship between Income Change and the Water Footprint of Food Consumption in Urban China
Authors: Li Guojing , Han Xinru , Luo Qiyou , Zhu Wenbo , Zhao Jing
Published: June 2021

We use a threshold model to analyze the relationship between per capita income and the per capita water footprint of food consumption in the urban Guangdong Province of China, and further simulate the effect of changes in income distribution on the per capita water footprint of food consumption. The income growth of urban residents has a significant positive effect on the per capita water footprint of food consumption, where the effect varies by income stratum. The income elasticity of the per capita water footprint of food consumption for the total sample is 0.45, where the income elasticity of the low-income group (0.75) is greater than that of the high-income group (0.23), indicating that a change of income in the low-income group has a greater effect on water resources. The simulation results show that increasing the income of residents, especially that of the low-income group, significantly increases the water footprint due to food consumption for the whole society. At present, China is in a period of rapid economic growth and urbanization, comprising a period of profound change and sensitive response to the income level of urban and rural residents. Therefore, in order to reduce the effect of food consumption on the environment, sustainable food consumption management strategies should consider group differences. We should correctly guide all kinds of groups to carry out sustainable consumption, advocate healthy and reasonable diet models, reduce animal food consumption, avoid the excessive consumption of food, and strengthen the management of food waste.
A Virtuous Circle? Increasing Local Benefits from Ports by Adopting Circular Economy Principles
Authors: Roberts Toby , Williams Ian , Preston John , Clarke Nick , Odum Melinda , O'Gorman Stefanie
Published: June 2021

As ports seek to maintain support for their operations amidst growing environmental awareness and social pressure, it is important they provide benefits for the local population to offset negative impacts. Ports can add additional economic benefits for the cities they are located in by encouraging maritime clusters, industrial development, a circular economy, and waterfront development. The current level of adoption, interest in future adoption, barriers to implementation, and attitudes towards the views of the local population were assessed via an online questionnaire sent to port authorities in 26 countries. The potential and willingness of ports to be on the frontline of the transition to a circular economy globally has been clearly identified for the first time, seeing a 60% increase between current levels of adoption and future interest in adoption. Barriers to a circular economy are comparable to barriers to widely adopted methods, such as industrial development and a waterfront economy. It is likely that circular economy activities in port cities will add additional local benefits and reduce the negative impacts of a port. A new framework is proposed to help ports and cities collaborate and encourage greater adoption of the circular economy.
The Role of Shared E-Scooter Systems in Urban Sustainability and Resilience during the Covid-19 Mobility Restrictions
Authors: Dias Gabriel , Arsenio Elisabete , Ribeiro Paulo
Published: June 2021

Shared e-scooter systems were first introduced in 2017 and have since been spreading around the world as a sustainable mode of transport. The success of this mode is also due to new urban mobility strategies and plans, such as the European Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, which relies on non-pollutant modes. To display the range of effects that can be achieved in urban mobility through the proper implementation of shared e-scooter systems, a systematic literature review and a case study were performed. It was found that this shared system can help cities with environmental issues, such as reducing air pollution, reducing inequality in access to transport, promoting money-saving, and improving mobility resilience. During the Covid-19 pandemic, shared e-scooters became a great asset in many cities worldwide, because they promote social distancing and help cities not to rely only on private cars to replace public transport rides, especially for short-distance trips. In the case study of Braga, it was found that the city still relies on shared e-scooter modes as a mobility option after the pandemic, also promoting special fares for people to start using the service.
Place-Sensitive Social Investment and Territorial Cohesion: Implications for Sustainability
Authors: Cordini Marta , Boczy Tatjana , Cefalo Ruggero
Published: June 2021

This theoretical paper presents a review of existing literature on the Social Investment (SI) approach to social policy and its underlying and under-explored territorial dimension. The SI approach has been debated and promoted mainly at national and supranational level, while the territorial dimension has been relatively underestimated in the policy as well as in the academic debate. A place-sensitive approach should be included within the analytical framework when addressing the territorial articulation of SI, as territorial-related variables may foster or hinder SI policies. Therefore, we provide a theoretical frame to articulate the territorial dimension of SI, and we discuss relevant points of contact between Social Investment and Territorial Cohesion. First, we provide a critical discussion about Social Investment approach, with the simultaneous aim of highlighting the gaps and the flaws, among which we focus on the territorial dimension of these policies. Second, we argue that this territorial dimension is related to the interaction between four main factors: (1) The reliance on the provision of capacitating services; (2) the process of institutional rescaling; (3) the persistence of spatial inequalities at subnational levels; and (4) the characteristics of the knowledge and learning economy. Third, we explore the relationship between place-sensitive Social Investment and Territorial Cohesion, discussing potential implications for sustainable development. The work is a theoretical reflection based on the HORIZON2020 project COHSMO “Inequality, Urbanization and Territorial Cohesion: developing the European social model of economic growth and democratic capacity”.
Implementation Framework for a Blockchain-Based Federated Learning Model for Classification Problems
Authors: Mahmood Zeba , Jusas Vacius
Published: June 2021

This paper introduces a blockchain-based federated learning (FL) framework with incentives for participating nodes to enhance the accuracy of classification problems. Machine learning technology has been rapidly developed and changed from a global perspective for the past few years. The FL framework is based on the Ethereum blockchain and creates an autonomous ecosystem, where nodes compete to improve the accuracy of classification problems. With privacy being one of the biggest concerns, FL makes use of the blockchain-based approach to ensure privacy and security. Another important technology that underlies the FL framework is zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs), which ensure that data uploaded to the network are accurate and private. Basically, ZKPs allow nodes to compete fairly by only submitting accurate models to the parameter server and get rewarded for that. We have conducted an analysis and found that ZKPs can help improve the accuracy of models submitted to the parameter server and facilitate the honest participation of all nodes in FL.
Relativistic Inversion, Invariance and Inter-Action
Authors: van der Mark Martin B. , Williamson John G.
Published: June 2021

A general formula for inversion in a relativistic Clifford–Dirac algebra has been derived. Identifying the base elements of the algebra as those of space and time, the first order differential equations over all quantities proves to encompass the Maxwell equations, leads to a natural extension incorporating rest mass and spin, and allows an integration with relativistic quantum mechanics. Although the algebra is not a division algebra, it parallels reality well: where division is undefined turns out to correspond to physical limits, such as that of the light cone. The divisor corresponds to invariants of dynamical significance, such as the invariant interval, the general invariant quantities in electromagnetism, and the basis set of quantities in the Dirac equation. It is speculated that the apparent 3-dimensionality of nature arises from a beautiful symmetry between the three-vector algebra and each of four sets of three derived spaces in the full 4-dimensional algebra. It is conjectured that elements of inversion may play a role in the interaction of fields and matter.
Encapsulation of Rhodamine 6G Dye Molecules for Affecting Symmetry of Supramolecular Crystals of Melamine-Barbiturate
Authors: Nesterov Pavel V. , Shilovskikh Vladimir V. , Sokolov Alexander D. , Gurzhiy Vladislav V. , Novikov Alexander S. , Timralieva Alexandra A. , Belogub Elena V. , Kondratyuk Nikolay D. , Orekhov Nikita D. , Skorb Ekaterina V.
Published: June 2021

Supramolecular organic systems can be used as a host for the encapsulation of small organic molecules. Here, we chose melamine barbiturate as a robust system capable of supramolecular assembly and the Rhodamine 6G dye entrapment as a guest molecule. The encapsulation of the dye was investigated by UV-visible spectroscopy, SEM and optical fluorescent microscopy while the insight into the crystal structure of the system was obtained by single crystal and powder XRD. For investigation of the system’s properties on a molecular level, the DFT and Classical Molecular Dynamics methods were utilized. Surprisingly, both theoretical and experimental data show not only the successful encapsulation of Rhodamine 6G molecules inside the supramolecular assembly, but also that inclusion of such molecules leads to the drastic improvement in the organic crystal shape. The melamine barbiturate in presence of the Rhodamine 6G molecules tend to form crystals with lesser degree of twinning and higher symmetry in shape than the ones without dye molecules.
Psychoactive Drugs Induce the SOS Response and Shiga Toxin Production in Escherichia coli
Authors: Crane John K. , Salehi Mashal , Alvarado Cassandra L.
Published: June 2021

Several classes of non-antibiotic drugs, including psychoactive drugs, proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and others, appear to have strong antimicrobial properties. We considered whether psychoactive drugs induce the SOS response in E. coli bacteria and, consequently, induce Shiga toxins in Shiga-toxigenic E. coli (STEC). We measured the induction of an SOS response using a recA-lacZ E. coli reporter strain, as RecA is an early, reliable, and quantifiable marker for activation of the SOS stress response pathway. We also measured the production and release of Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2) from a classic E. coli O157:H7 strain, derived from a food-borne outbreak due to spinach. Some, but not all, serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antipsychotic drugs induced an SOS response. The use of SSRIs is widespread and increasing; thus, the use of these antidepressants could account for some cases of hemolytic-uremic syndrome due to STEC and is not attributable to antibiotic administration. SSRIs could have detrimental effects on the normal intestinal microbiome in humans. In addition, as SSRIs are resistant to environmental breakdown, they could have effects on microbial communities, including aquatic ecosystems, long after they have left the human body.
Direct Alcohol Biomarkers Prediction Capacity on Relapse and Mortality in Liver Transplantation Candidates: A Follow-Up Study
Authors: Barrio Pablo , Marco Oriol , Druetta Mauro , Tardon Laia , Lligonya Anna , Wurst Friedrich Martin , Weinmann Wolfgang , Yegles Michel , Gual Antoni
Published: June 2021

Liver transplantation is a complex procedure that requires multiple evaluations, including abstinence monitorization. While literature assessing the impact of different variables on relapse, survival, and graft loss exists, little is known about the predictive capacity of direct alcohol biomarkers. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the prediction capacity of direct alcohol biomarkers regarding patient survival and clinical relapse. We hypothesized that patients screening positive for any of the experimental biomarkers would show an increased risk of clinical alcohol relapse and death. We conducted a retrospective data recollection from medical files of patients awaiting liver transplantation, who were at baseline screened with Peth, EtG in hair and urine, and EtS. We tested the prediction capacity of the biomarkers with two Cox-regression models. A total of 50 patients were included (84% men, mean age 59 years (SD = 6)). Biomarkers at baseline were positive in 18 patients. The mean follow-up time for this study was 26 months (SD = 10.4). Twelve patients died, liver transplantation was carried out in 12 patients, and clinical relapse was observed in eight patients. The only significant covariate in the Cox-regression models was age with clinical relapse, with younger patients being at greater risk of relapse. This study could not find a significant prediction capacity of direct alcohol biomarkers for mortality or clinical relapse during follow-up. Higher sample sizes might be needed to detect statistically significant differences. All in all, we believe that direct alcohol biomarkers should be widely used in liver transplantation settings due to their high sensitivity for the detection of recent drinking.
Review of Outcomes after Diagnosis of Malignancy in Kidney Transplant Patients: UNOS Database
Authors: Patel Het , Agrawal Nikhil , Nissaisorakarn Voravech , Gupta Ridhi , Cardarelli Francesca
Published: June 2021

Malignancy is the third major cause of death among transplant recipients. Patient and kidney transplant outcomes after the diagnosis of malignancy are not well described. We reviewed incidences and outcomes of colorectal, lung, PTLD, and renal malignancy after transplant among patients who received a transplant from January 2000 to December 2018 using the UNOS/OPTN database. Incidence of each malignancy was measured at 5 years and 10 years of transplant. The Kaplan–Meier curve was used for time-to-event analysis (graft and patient outcomes). Additionally, we sought to identify the causes of graft failure among these recipients. We found that 12,764 (5.5%) patients suffered malignancy, excluding squamous and basal cell skin carcinoma after transplant. During the first 5 years of transplant, incidence of colorectal, lung, PTLD, and renal malignancies was 2.99, 9.21, 15.61, and 8.55 per 10,000 person-years, respectively. Rates of graft failure were 10.3%, 7.6%, 19.9%, and 18.8%, respectively, among these patients at 5 years. Mortality rate was highest among patients who suffered lung malignancy (84%), followed by colorectal (61.5%), PTLD (49.1%), and renal (35.5%) at 5 years after diagnosis of malignancy. In conclusion, kidney transplant recipients diagnosed with lung malignancy have the lowest graft survival, compared to PTLD, colorectal, and renal malignancy. PTLD has the highest incidence rate in the first 5 years of transplant.
Harnessing the Natural Biology of Adeno-Associated Virus to Enhance the Efficacy of Cancer Gene Therapy
Authors: Bower Jacquelyn J. , Song Liujiang , Bastola Prabhakar , Hirsch Matthew L.
Published: June 2021

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) was first characterized as small “defective” contaminant particles in a simian adenovirus preparation in 1965. Since then, a recombinant platform of AAV (rAAV) has become one of the leading candidates for gene therapy applications resulting in two FDA-approved treatments for rare monogenic diseases and many more currently in various phases of the pharmaceutical development pipeline. Herein, we summarize rAAV approaches for the treatment of diverse types of cancers and highlight the natural anti-oncogenic effects of wild-type AAV (wtAAV), including interactions with the cellular host machinery, that are of relevance to enhance current treatment strategies for cancer.
Gold—Polyoxoborates Nanocomposite Prohibits Adsorption of Bacteriophages on Inner Surfaces of Polypropylene Labware and Protects Samples from Bacterial and Yeast Infections
Authors: Wdowiak Mateusz , Ochirbat Enkhlin , Paczesny Jan
Published: June 2021

Bacteriophages (phages) are a specific type of viruses that infect bacteria. Because of growing antibiotic resistance among bacterial strains, phage-based therapies are becoming more and more attractive. The critical problem is the storage of bacteriophages. Recently, it was found that bacteriophages might adsorb on the surfaces of plastic containers, effectively decreasing the titer of phage suspensions. Here, we showed that a BOA nanocomposite (gold nanoparticles embedded in polyoxoborate matrix) deposited onto the inner walls of the containers stabilizes phage suspensions against uncontrolled adsorption and titer decrease. Additionally, BOA provides antibacterial and antifungal protection. The application of BOA assures safe and sterile means for the storage of bacteriophages.
HDV-Like Viruses
Authors: Pérez-Vargas Jimena , Pereira de Oliveira Rémi , Jacquet Stéphanie , Pontier Dominique , Cosset François-Loïc , Freitas Natalia
Published: June 2021

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective human virus that lacks the ability to produce its own envelope proteins and is thus dependent on the presence of a helper virus, which provides its surface proteins to produce infectious particles. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) was so far thought to be the only helper virus described to be associated with HDV. However, recent studies showed that divergent HDV-like viruses could be detected in fishes, birds, amphibians, and invertebrates, without evidence of any HBV-like agent supporting infection. Another recent study demonstrated that HDV can be transmitted and propagated in experimental infections ex vivo and in vivo by different enveloped viruses unrelated to HBV, including hepatitis C virus (HCV) and flaviviruses such as Dengue and West Nile virus. All this new evidence, in addition to the identification of novel virus species within a large range of hosts in absence of HBV, suggests that deltaviruses may take advantage of a large spectrum of helper viruses and raises questions about HDV origins and evolution.
Ecological Effects on the Dynamics of West Nile Virus and Avian Plasmodium: The Importance of Mosquito Communities and Landscape
Authors: Ferraguti Martina , Martínez-de la Puente Josué , Figuerola Jordi
Published: June 2021

Humans and wildlife are at risk from certain vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and West Nile and yellow fevers. Factors linked to global change, including habitat alteration, land-use intensification, the spread of alien species, and climate change, are operating on a global scale and affect both the incidence and distribution of many vector-borne diseases. Hence, understanding the drivers that regulate the transmission of pathogens in the wild is of great importance for ecological, evolutionary, health, and economic reasons. In this literature review, we discuss the ecological factors potentially affecting the transmission of two mosquito-borne pathogens circulating naturally between birds and mosquitoes, namely, West Nile virus (WNV) and the avian malaria parasites of the genus Plasmodium. Traditionally, the study of pathogen transmission has focused only on vectors or hosts and the interactions between them, while the role of landscape has largely been ignored. However, from an ecological point of view, it is essential not only to study the interaction between each of these organisms but also to understand the environmental scenarios in which these processes take place. We describe here some of the similarities and differences in the transmission of these two pathogens and how research into both systems may facilitate a greater understanding of the dynamics of vector-borne pathogens in the wild.
Nucleocytoplasmic Trafficking Perturbation Induced by Picornaviruses
Authors: Lizcano-Perret Belén , Michiels Thomas
Published: June 2021

Picornaviruses are positive-stranded RNA viruses. Even though replication and translation of their genome take place in the cytoplasm, these viruses evolved different strategies to disturb nucleocytoplasmic trafficking of host proteins and RNA. The major targets of picornavirus are the phenylalanine-glycine (FG)-nucleoporins, which form a mesh in the central channel of the nuclear pore complex through which protein cargos and karyopherins are actively transported in both directions. Interestingly, while enteroviruses use the proteolytic activity of their 2A protein to degrade FG-nucleoporins, cardioviruses act by triggering phosphorylation of these proteins by cellular kinases. By targeting the nuclear pore complex, picornaviruses recruit nuclear proteins to the cytoplasm, where they increase viral genome translation and replication; they affect nuclear translocation of cytoplasmic proteins such as transcription factors that induce innate immune responses and retain host mRNA in the nucleus thereby preventing cell emergency responses and likely making the ribosomal machinery available for translation of viral RNAs.
SARS-CoV-2 Variants: A Synopsis of In Vitro Efficacy Data of Convalescent Plasma, Currently Marketed Vaccines, and Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Focosi Daniele , Tuccori Marco , Baj Andreina , Maggi Fabrizio
Published: June 2021

We summarize here in vitro evidences of efficacy for convalescent plasma, currently approved vaccines and monoclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC: B.1.1.7, B.1.351, P.1, and B.1.617.2), variants of interest (VOI: B.1.427/B.1.429, P.2, B.1.525, P.3, B.1.526, and B.1.671.1), and other strains (B.1.1.298 and B.1.258delta). While waiting from real world clinical efficacy, these data provide guidance for the treating physician.
African Swine Fever Virus as a Difficult Opponent in the Fight for a Vaccine—Current Data
Authors: Turlewicz-Podbielska Hanna , Kuriga Anna , Niemyjski Rafał , Tarasiuk Grzegorz , Pomorska-Mól Małgorzata
Published: June 2021

Prevention and control of African swine fever virus (ASFV) in Europe, Asia, and Africa seem to be extremely difficult in view of the ease with which it spreads, its high resistance to environmental conditions, and the many obstacles related to the introduction of effective specific immunoprophylaxis. Biological properties of ASFV indicate that the African swine fever (ASF) pandemic will continue to develop and that only the implementation of an effective and safe vaccine will ensure a reduction in the spread of ASFV. At present, vaccines against ASF are not available. The latest approaches to the ASFV vaccine’s design concentrate on the development of either modified live vaccines by targeted gene deletion from different isolates or subunit vaccines. The construction of an effective vaccine is hindered by the complex structure of the virus, the lack of an effective continuous cell line for the isolation and propagation of ASFV, unpredictable and stain-specific phenotypes after the genetic modification of ASFV, a risk of reversion to virulence, and our current inability to differentiate infected animals from vaccinated ones. Moreover, the design of vaccines intended for wild boars and oral administration is desirable. Despite several obstacles, the design of a safe and effective vaccine against ASFV seems to be achievable.
Clinical Update of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome
Authors: Seo Jun-Won , Kim Dayoung , Yun Nara , Kim Dong-Min
Published: June 2021

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an acute febrile illness characterized by fever, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting resulting from infection with the SFTS virus (SFTSV). The SFTSV is transmitted to humans by tick bites, primarily from Haemaphysalis longicornis, Amblyomma testudinarium, Ixodes nipponensis, and Rhipicephalus microplus. Human-to-human transmission has also been reported. Since the first report of an SFTS patient in China, the number of patients has also been increasing. The mortality rate of patients with SFTS remains high because the disease can quickly lead to death through multiple organ failure. In particular, an average fatality rate of approximately 20% has been reported for SFTS patients, and no treatment strategy has been established. Therefore, effective antiviral agents and vaccines are required. Here, we aim to review the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, laboratory diagnosis, and various specific treatments (i.e., antiviral agents, steroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and plasma exchange) that have been tested to help to cope with the disease.