bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Measurement of Social Cohesion in Poland’s NUTS2 Regions in the Period 2010–2019 by Applying Dynamic Relative Taxonomy to Interval-Valued Data
Authors: Walesiak Marek , Dehnel Grażyna
Published: February 2023

Composite indicators play an important role in the analysis of socio-economic phenomena. A number of different approaches to constructing composite indicators have been proposed in the literature. Depending on the degree of compensation, they can be divided into compensatory, partially compensatory, and non-compensatory. The following article focuses on the method of relative taxonomy and its dynamic modification. While this method is typically applied to metric data, the authors propose using the dynamic approach for interval-valued data, which describes objects of interest more precisely. Metric data are of an atomic nature; i.e., an observation of each variable is expressed as one real number. In contrast, each observation of an interval-valued variable is expressed as an interval. By making use of interval-valued data, it is possible to assess objects not only at the regional level but also at a lower level of territorial aggregation, taking into account spatial variation across districts that make up each region. The study described in the article was conducted by applying relative taxonomy in its dynamic approach to interval-valued data in order to measure the level of social cohesion in Poland’s NUTS2 regions during the period 2010–2019. The target dataset was obtained by aggregating numeric data about social cohesion in districts (LAU1) at the level of regions. The lower and upper limit of the interval for each region was based on district-level data and corresponded to the 2nd and 8th decile, respectively (60% of observations), which helped to mitigate the effect of outliers. By applying dynamic relative taxonomy to interval-valued data, it was possible to graphically represent changes in the level of social cohesion that took place across 17 Poland’s NUTS2 regions between 2010 and 2019. It was found that during the reference period, the level of social cohesion in the regions systematically improved. Despite the observed variation, the distance between the regions consistently decreased over time. The level of social cohesion was found to be higher in regions that had received more EU funding to support regional development.
Characterisation of the National Network of Silos and Granaries in Castilla y León, Spain: A Case Study
Authors: Fernández-Fernández Manuel V. , Marcelo Víctor , Valenciano José B. , González-Fernández Ana B.
Published: February 2023

In 1995, Spain’s National Network of Silos and Granaries was divided into a basic network and a secondary network. Of the total storage units identified, 541 are vertical units or silos forming part of the secondary network. Unlike the silos of the basic network, many of the secondary network silos, which were primarily reception units sited near the areas where the grain was grown, have been repurposed. This article describes a methodology developed to inventory silos based on their general features, construction and technological facilities, and its application to the 123 silos in the secondary network in the Spanish region of Castilla y León. The exercise was conducted in conjunction with a socioeconomic analysis of the communities where the silos are located. All the silos studied are located in the most productive areas and close to farms, have small storage capacities and include all but one silo typology, the transition macro-silo. Some are still used for grain storage, whilst others have been converted into multi-purpose warehouses, gymnasiums, community centres or other specialised facilities. Ideas for silo repurposing implemented in other regions of Spain and other countries might well be applied in Castilla y León. In addition, this methodology has proved useful to identify proposals that are viable in the more highly populated communities.
An Integrated Approach to Assess Smart Passive Bioventing as a Sustainable Strategy for the Remediation of a Polluted Site by Persistent Organic Pollutants
Authors: Triozzi Mariangela , Binetti Maria Silvia , Campanale Claudia , Uricchio Vito Felice , Massarelli Carmine
Published: February 2023

Recently modern methodologies allowed the improvement of conventional bioventing strategies in an engineering technology known as smart passive bioventing (S-PBv). The latter is an increasingly used application to reduce the concentrations of organic contaminants below the relative value of contamination threshold concentration (CSC). The S-PBv exploits the natural fluctuations of atmospheric pressure, which allow air to enter into the subsoil, to facilitate natural remediation processes. In this way, the efforts in terms of economics resources in the remediation process are minimised, the risk of pollutants volatilization is drastically reduced, and the degradation favoured by microorganisms is promoted. Our study aims to provide the essential information to plan a series of in situ tests (pilot test) to verify the applicability of this remediation technology, through the use of intelligent sensors designed and engineered using open-source hardware and software.
The Electricity Market in Greece: Current Status, Identified Challenges, and Arranged Reforms
Authors: Makrygiorgou Jemma J. , Karavas Christos-Spyridon , Dikaiakos Christos , Moraitis Ioannis P.
Published: February 2023

The approach of an integrated electricity market is widespread across Europe, since such a market structure has numerous benefits for both the grid and consumers. The current structure and the related policy framework of the electricity markets adopted within the European countries is based on a benchmark model, the so-called Target Model, which describes a reference energy market framework. In this paper, a comprehensive overview of the legislative effort and the resulting Target Model is provided, aiming to set the basis for the description of the adopted electricity markets in Europe. In a second stage, the current status of the Greek electricity market that operates under the Target model scheme is given via the analysis of the involved submarkets, i.e., the forward market, the day-ahead market, the intraday market, and the balancing market. An intricate case study of the Target Model operation in the Greek electricity market within a day of operation is examined, which actually completes the former description. Within the case study, the Greek electricity market is further investigated for its efficiency and the impact on the obtained electricity prices from the first day of the Target Model implementation, which took place in November 2020, and, finally, today is analysed. The results show an overall successful implementation and satisfactory performance of the Target Model in Greece, with an important main result being the reduction of prices in the balancing market and the increase of the intraday market liquidity. However, several challenges are identified and described in detail, while at the same time measures for their confrontation are proposed in order to improve market operation and fully exploit the benefits of the Target Model.
Multi-Scale Integration and Distribution of Soil Organic Matter Spatial Variation in a Coal–Grain Compound Area
Authors: Zhang Huijuan , Liu Wenkai , Hu Qingfeng , Huang Xiaodong
Published: February 2023

Soil organic matter (SOM) scale effects are critical for crop growth and food security, especially in coal–grain complexes. However, few studies describe the spatial variation in SOM and its influencing factors at different sampling scales. Here, geostatistical theory and mathematical statistical methods were adopted to analyze the spatial variation characteristics of and structural differences in SOM in the coal mining subsidence area at Zhaogu No. 2 Mine at different sampling scales. The results showed that SOM varied spatially at large, medium, and small scales, and the coefficients of variation were 28.07%, 14.93%, and 14.31%, respectively, which are moderate values. The characteristic functions of the SOM content at different sampling scales differed, and the spatial structure scale effect was obvious. The spatial distribution of the SOM content fitted by the multiscale fitting model method was generally the same as the spatial distribution law of the SOM content fitted by the single scale kriging interpolation method; however, in terms of the detailed expression and spatial distribution of small-scale SOM content, the fitting model method was more accurate, and the accuracy increased by 36%. At the different sampling scales, sample size and soil type had specific effects on the SOM spatial distribution. These results provide research concepts and technical countermeasures for improving food security and the ecological environment in the coal–grain complex and help ensure sustainable agricultural lands.
Shaping Public Space in Informal Settlements: A Case Study
Authors: Kamalipour Hesam
Published: February 2023

Informal settlement has become one of the critical ways of producing space and accessing affordable housing, particularly in the context of the global South. Much of the established literature on the shaping of public space focuses on cities of the global North, and little is known about how public spaces are being shaped in more congested and less formal cities of the global South. This paper engages with the challenge of understanding the shaping of public space in informal settlements with a focus on exploring the spatial structures and increments of change in a case study in Medellin (Colombia). This is primarily an urban design exploration, which deploys direct observation, extensive urban photography, and field notes as key research methods. This paper contributes a critical case study, which has experienced forms of informal and formal transformations. The spatial structures and increments of change are explored in the selected case study and further discussed in the context of the relevant literature. This paper argues that much of the shaping of public space in informal settlements can be considered as “unfinished” in the sense that their “incompleteness” enables a degree of flexibility for possible adaptations in relation to individual/collective needs and desires. The article also reflects on how producing mixed morphologies can be considered as an attempt that may possibly facilitate future forms of formalisation and/or upgrading by enabling a degree of visual resemblance with what is considered as the formal city. The findings of this study can inform the related upgrading practices by providing a better understanding of how public spaces are being shaped in informal settlements.
The Quintuple Bottom Line: A Framework for Place-Based Sustainable Enterprise in the Craft Industry
Authors: Panneels Inge
Published: February 2023

This study proposes to extend the sustainable business framework of the Quadruple Bottom Line into the Quintuple Bottom Line. The five Ps of the Quintuple Bottom Line support purpose-driven businesses to consider economic profitability alongside social responsibility and environmental sustainability, rooted in place (purpose, profit, people, planet and place), and are based on reflections from the craft industry. Case studies from material-based creative businesses as found in the traditional handicraft and design-innovation communities in Nepal, and a designer-making community in Scotland, both explored circular-economy principles. The importance of localised supply chains and regenerative design enabled the development of the five-Ps framework so as to be more reflective of circular-economy models as operated by craft businesses. This qualitative research project took a case-studies approach, supported by primary research through workshops and interviews, and using the expansion of the Craft Toolkit of Applied Arts Scotland to embed the five Ps. The craft sector, with creative practices rooted in traditional manufacturing, material knowledge and yet a contemporary approach to design, can thus provide a useful model for other creative businesses that support purposeful, holistic sustainability and that engage with financial, environmental, and social sustainability that is rooted in place.
Wind Power Short-Term Forecasting Method Based on LSTM and Multiple Error Correction
Authors: Xiao Zhengxuan , Tang Fei , Wang Mengyuan
Published: February 2023

To improve the accuracy of short-term wind power prediction, a short-term wind power prediction model based on the LSTM model and multiple error correction is proposed. First, an affine wind power correction model based on assimilative migration is established to reduce the errors caused by false positives from the initial data. Then, a self-moving window LSTM prediction model based on the improved particle swarm optimization algorithm was established. By improving the particle swarm optimization algorithm, the optimal hidden neuron number and the optimal learning rate of the LSTM model were calculated to enhance the model’s accuracy. Definitively, the idea of error feedback prediction is used to correct the initial prediction error, and the prediction error is fed back to the LSTM model to reduce the error caused by the calculation of the LSTM model. By starting from the initial data error, model accuracy error, and model prediction error, multiple error correction of wind power is realized to improve the model accuracy. The simulation results show that the method improves the model’s prediction accuracy by using assimilative transfer and error feedback, contributing to the economic operation and sustainable development of the power system. Unlike traditional improvement ideas, the proposed improvement ideas do not involve the inherent characteristics of the original prediction methods. This method does not need to introduce other auxiliary methods and has good universality.
Effect of Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) Antistripping Agent on Performance of Waste Engine Oil-Rejuvenated Asphalt Binders and Mixtures
Authors: Eltwati Ahmed , Putra Jaya Ramadhansyah , Mohamed Azman , Jusli Euniza , Al-Saffar Zaid , Hainin Mohd Rosli , Enieb Mahmoud
Published: February 2023

Evaluating the performance of rejuvenated asphalt mixes is crucial for pavement design and construction, as using a rejuvenator not only boosts recycling and contributes to positive effects on the environment but also increases the sensitivity to rutting and moisture. This study was executed to evaluate the effect of a warm mix asphalt (WMA) antistripping agent, namely nano-ZycoTherm, on the moisture-induced damage and rutting potential of asphalt mixtures containing 30% and 60% aged (RAP) binder and rejuvenated with 12% waste engine oil (WEO). For this purpose, the rutting resistance of asphalt mixes in wet and dry conditions was examined utilizing a loaded wheel tracker. In addition, the impacts of moisture on the performance of the mixtures were evaluated using different experiments, such as modified Lottman (AASHTO T283), resilient modulus, dynamic creep, aggregate coating and wheel tracking tests. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis were performed to identify the functional groups, which would be significant in terms of moisture damage, and to assess the thermal stability of binder samples, respectively. The results revealed that the rejuvenation of aged binder with WEO increases the moisture susceptibility of the mixtures; however, the addition of ZycoTherm was found to enhance the moisture resistance of WEO-rejuvenated mixtures. Furthermore, the results indicated that the WEO-rejuvenated mixtures modified with ZycoTherm exhibited a better rutting resistance in a wet condition compared to that of WEO-rejuvenated and conventional HMA mixtures. However, the rejuvenated mixtures modified with ZycoTherm showed poorer rutting performance in a dry condition. In summary, the adoption of the WMA antistripping agent, RAP binder and WEO rejuvenation techniques demonstrated satisfactory outcomes in terms of rutting resistance and moisture susceptibility, and also, these techniques are much less expensive to implement.
ELSA as an Education 4.0 Tool for Learning Business English Communication
Authors: Dhivya D. Sri , Hariharasudan A. , Ragmoun Wided , Alfalih Abdulaziz Abdulmohsen
Published: February 2023

Due to globalization, business collaborations are made throughout the world. Many industries have started adopting new technologies to make their work easier. Therefore, preparing students for the future workforce is necessary. This can only be achieved only by adopting a new education system. The new education system that supports technologies is known as Education 4.0. Education 4.0, which is sustainable, is a self-based education that adopts AI for learning. Exploring many new technologies and English communication is important for anyone entering the workforce in the future. This study aims at developing Business English communication using Education 4.0. ELSA is one of the applications that supports Education 4.0. The novelty of the current study is that ELSA is used for developing Business English communication. This quantitative study employed a quasi-experimental research design, and a purposive-sampling method was used for selecting the participants. Management students from business schools were selected for this research. Ninety-nine students participated in this study. Later, a pre-test was conducted using a questionnaire. Data were collected and documented. The intervention was carried out for four weeks and adopted Education 4.0. After the intervention period, a post-test was conducted using another questionnaire to check for improvement. The pre-test and post-test data of the participants were compared and analyzed in SPSS using a paired sample t-test. The results showed that listening skills were greatly improved using Education 4.0, which is also important for enhancing other skills, and the participants benefited from using Education 4.0. Moreover, we discuss the study’s limitations, which provides opportunities to conduct future research.
Rockets and Feathers in the Gasoline Market: Evidence from South Korea
Authors: Cha Kyungsoo , Lee Chul-Yong
Published: February 2023

This study analyzes how changes in oil prices are transmitted to gasoline prices in Korea. We attempt to identify the main causes of the observed price asymmetry and offer plausible theories by investigating price transmission at different levels of the distribution process. Retail prices react faster to increases in the Singapore spot market prices than decreases. We also find asymmetry in the price transmission from spot gasoline to wholesale gasoline, but in the opposite direction. Additionally, there is little evidence of asymmetry in the pass-through from wholesale prices to retail prices. Therefore, the observed asymmetry of retail prices is due mainly to the transmission of prices from spot gasoline to retail gasoline, and theories related to the cost of search for consumers seem to be the most relevant in explaining the asymmetry. Finally, the results indicate that the asymmetric pricing results in a substantial loss to consumers.
How Is Educational Gamification Represented in School Curriculum? An Investigation of Chinese Secondary Mathematics Textbooks
Authors: Fan Lianghuo , Li Lingzhu , Chen Qiuyu , Li Na
Published: February 2023

Textbooks, as potentially implemented curriculum, play an important role in school education. Earlier studies in mathematics education revealed that teaching using mathematics games had a positive effect on students’ learning. However, how mathematics games are presented in mathematics textbooks has rarely been systematically examined. In this study, we aimed to investigate how mathematics games are presented in school mathematics textbooks in China. We selected three series of Chinese secondary mathematics textbooks (Grades 7–9) and identified 112 mathematics games in total; then, we coded and analyzed the games according to an analysis framework we established for the study. The results showed that, across the three series of textbooks, the distribution of games was inconsistent and, within the same series of textbooks, it was irregular across the different grade levels; in terms of locations and cognitive objectives, most games were presented as exercise questions and the main purpose was to improve students’ problem solving ability. Moreover, most of the games were single player games and there were slightly more competitive games than non-competitive games. The implications of the findings for the design and research of mathematics games in mathematics textbooks are discussed at the end of the study.
Economic Loss and Financial Risk Assessment of Ecological Environment Caused by Environmental Pollution under Big Data
Authors: Wang Lili , Su Yingjian
Published: February 2023

With the proposal of the sustainable scientific development concept, the ecological environment problem has been paid more and more attention, and the economic loss and financial risk assessment work caused by environmental pollution is even more urgent. On the one hand, financial growth is an important reason for the decline of environmental quality; on the other hand, the change of environmental quality and the increase in pollution discharge also have counterforces to financial growth. Through big data technology, this paper established the basic steps of economic loss cost and risk assessment and provided quantifiable index information for the realization of ecological environment big data early warning. An improved analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is proposed in this paper. By checking the consistency of the judgment matrix in combination with the actual situation, it is possible to accurately analyze the degree of environmental protection for sustained economic growth, and to objectively understand the degree of financial risk. The experimental results of this paper showed that the evaluation accuracy of the improved AHP was higher. Before the improved method was used, most of the high-risk factor weights and rankings were still in the high-risk range. The results of the consistency verification of risk criteria and risk factors showed that the consistency test of each level was less than 0.1. The risk factors are classified into the high-risk factor group (50%). The impact of the air pollution category had increased from fifth place in the fuzzy AHP to the first place in the AHP risk ranking, and the risk of water pollution category dropped from the 19th medium risk in the fuzzy AHP to the 12th medium risk in the AHP. It can be seen that the weights and rankings evaluated by the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process were more in line with the actual market conditions.
Limits and Possibilities of Vegetable Extraction in Extractive Reserves in the Amazon
Authors: Freitas Josimar da Silva , Homma Alfredo Kingo Oyama , Ferreira José Francisco de Carvalho , Farias Filho Milton Cordeiro , Mathis Armin , Silva David Costa Correia , Padilha Luiz Mário
Published: February 2023

Vegetable extraction has been considered a new paradigm of adequate development for the Amazon Region by ecological movements, international organizations, and foreign governments. This study evaluates whether the supply of extractive products transformed into economic value can ensure the livelihood of families and prevent deforestation. The study was conducted at the extractive reserves Alto Juruá, Rio Ouro Preto, and Rio Cajari during two periods: January to March 2017 and January to March 2019. A total of 384 interviews were conducted—234 in 2017 and 150 in 2019. The field results show that low returns, low land productivity, and lack of labor point to the economic infeasibility of vegetable extraction in the extractive reserves of Alto Juruá, Rio Ouro, and Rio Cajari. As a priority, extractivism should be considered a cultural institution and an economic model that can promote sustainability. A strategy capable of valuing products derived from extractivism should be developed, and an approximation of the markets that remediates the efforts of forest conservationists should be considered.
Sustaining the Quality Development of German Vocational Education and Training in the Age of Digitalization: Challenges and Strategies
Authors: Yang Chengming , Kaiser Franz , Tang Hui , Chen Pujun , Diao Junfeng
Published: February 2023

The digital transformation of the working world has been bringing profound impacts on German vocational education and training (VET). This study analyzes the challenges that German VET is experiencing in the context of digitalization as well as the strategies to overcome these challenges. Based on the concept of sustainable cooperation between vocational schools and companies, this study proposed a theoretical framework for preserving the sustainability of VET in the digital era from three dimensions: the capability of industrial service, attractiveness, and adaptability. Meanwhile, through the content analysis method applied to the study of official research and statistical reports, policy documents, journal articles, etc., three key challenges for German VET are found: the insufficient service capacity of German VET for industrial digitalization, the decreasing attractiveness of VET, and the low level of application of digital competencies. German federal agencies have developed multiple strategies in response, including (1) strengthening the capability of training digital talents through the modernization of the training regulations and framework curricula in 2021; (2) reshaping VET as a more promising track for individuals via information support and expanding development pathways; (3) enhancing the willingness to participate in and the capacity to provide vocational training of companies through financial measures; (4) promoting the digital transformation of VET through the financial support of projects and development of practical assistance.
Developing a Fast-Processing Novel Algorithm for Contact Analysis of Standard Spur Gears
Authors: Cazan Stelian , Bhaumik Shubrajit , Paleu Viorel , Crețu Spiridon
Published: February 2023

Numerical methods have gained momentum among specific engineering problems that must be solved in such a manner that accuracy and speed are the two most important aspects to consider regarding the output. This paper presents a fast, semi-analytical method (SAM) and original mathematical algorithms to determine the pressure distribution and von Mises stress for spur gears’ meshing teeth. The SAM begins with the Hartnett approach, based on Boussinesq’s equation for the half-space theory of linear elasticity, which implicitly means an infinite width of the gear flank. To simulate more realistic quarter-space conditions, corrections based on virtual mirror pressure are introduced in the computational algorithm. Mathematical surfaces modeling is an important aspect for spur gears as an intermediate stage to determine the pressure distribution and von Mises stress. Shaft misalignment changes the contact problem from symmetric, in which the half- or quarter-space model can be used, to asymmetric. In the latter case, the model must determine the entire contact area. The obtained output is validated by comparisons between our original FEA results and results from the literature using SAMs and FEA.
Video Synopsis Algorithms and Framework: A Survey and Comparative Evaluation
Authors: Ingle Palash Yuvraj , Kim Young-Gab
Published: February 2023

With the increase in video surveillance data, techniques such as video synopsis are being used to construct small videos for analysis, thereby saving storage resources. The video synopsis framework applies in real-time environments, allowing for the creation of synopsis between multiple and single-view cameras; the same framework encompasses optimization, extraction, and object detection algorithms. Contemporary state-of-the-art synopsis frameworks are suitable only for particular scenarios. This paper aims to review the traditional state-of-the-art video synopsis techniques and understand the different methods incorporated in the methodology. A comprehensive review provides analysis of varying video synopsis frameworks and their components, along with insightful evidence for classifying these techniques. We primarily investigate studies based on single-view and multiview cameras, providing a synopsis and taxonomy based on their characteristics, then identifying and briefly discussing the most commonly used datasets and evaluation metrics. At each stage of the synopsis framework, we present new trends and open challenges based on the obtained insights. Finally, we evaluate the different components such as object detection, tracking, optimization, and stitching techniques on a publicly available dataset and identify the lacuna among the different algorithms based on experimental results.
Identifying Historic Buildings over Time through Image Matching
Authors: Tychola Kyriaki A. , Chatzistamatis Stamatis , Vrochidou Eleni , Tsekouras George E. , Papakostas George A.
Published: February 2023

The buildings in a city are of great importance. Certain historic buildings are landmarks and indicate the city’s architecture and culture. The buildings over time undergo changes because of various factors, such as structural changes, natural disaster damages, and aesthetic interventions. The form of buildings in each period is perceived and understood by people of each generation, through photography. Nevertheless, each photograph has its own characteristics depending on the camera (analog or digital) used for capturing it. Any photo, even depicting the same object, is impossible to capture in the same way in terms of illumination, viewing angle, and scale. Hence, to study two or more photographs depicting the same object, first they should be identified and then properly matched. Nowadays, computer vision contributes to this process by providing useful tools. In particular, for this purpose, several feature detection and description algorithms of homologous points have been developed. In this study, the identification of historic buildings over time through feature correspondence techniques and methods is investigated. Especially, photographs from landmarks of Drama city, in Greece, on different dates and conditions (weather, light, rotation, scale, etc.), were gathered and experiments on 2D pairs of images, implementing traditional feature detectors and descriptors algorithms, such as SIFT, ORB, and BRISK, were carried out. This study aims to evaluate the feature matching procedure focusing on both the algorithms’ performance (accuracy, efficiency, and robustness) and the identification of the buildings. SIFT and BRISK are the most accurate algorithms while ORB and BRISK are the most efficient.
Authors, Reviewers and Nonfinancial Conflict of Interest: Can We Manage This Bond?
Authors: Quaia Emilio
Published: February 2023

Manuscript reviewers and the accuracy of the review process are fundamental to the quality of a scientific journal and authors place tremendous confidence in peer reviewers’ impartiality [...]
Chinese Technical Guideline for Deriving Water Quality Criteria for Protection of Freshwater Organisms
Authors: Yan Zhen-Guang , Zheng Xin , Zhang Yi-Zhang , Yang Zhan-Hong , Zhou Quan , Men Shu-Hui , Du Jin-Zhe
Published: February 2023

In recent years, China has determined the national goal of “developing national environmental criteria”, thereby promoting the rapid development of environmental quality criteria research in China. In 2017, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China (MEEC, formerly the Ministry of Environmental Protection of China) issued the technical guideline for deriving water quality criteria (WQC) for protection of freshwater organisms (HJ 831-2017), and in 2022, they organized the guideline revision and issued an updated version (HJ 831-2022). The primary contents of the revision included the following. The minimum toxicity data requirements were upgraded from 6 to 10, and the species mean toxicity value was replaced by the same effect toxicity value for the criteria calculation. It is now required that the tested organisms must be distributed in China’s natural fresh waters, and the toxicity data of non-native model species will no longer be used. The list of freshwater invasive species in China that cannot be used as test species was added into the guideline. The acute/chronic ratio (ACR) method for the criteria derivation and the extreme value model were deleted, and the provisions for testing the toxicity data distribution were also deleted. The exposure time of the toxicity test of various tested organisms was refined, and the priority of the toxicity data was clearly specified. This paper introduces the framework and specific technical requirements of HJ 831-2022 in detail, including data collection, pre-processing of toxicity data, criteria derivation, fitting models, and quality control. This introduction is helpful for international peers to understand the latest research progress of China’s WQC.
Pathological Changes in Hepatic Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells in Schistosoma japonicum-Infected Mice
Authors: Jiang Tingting , Wu Xiaoying , Zhou Hao , Hu Yuan , Cao Jianping
Published: February 2023

Schistosomiasis japonica is a zoonotic parasitic disease causing liver fibrosis. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) exhibit fenestrations, which promote hepatocyte regeneration and reverses the process of liver fibrosis. To investigate the pathological changes of LSECs in schistosomiasis, we established a Schistosomiasis model. The population, phenotype, and secretory function of LSECs were detected by flow cytometry at 20, 28, and 42 days post infection. The changes in LSEC fenestration and basement membrane were observed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting were used to detect the expression of molecules associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and fibrosis of LSECs and the liver. The flow cytometry results showed that the total LSEC proportions, differentiated LSEC proportions, and nitric oxide (NO) secretion of LSECs were decreased, and the proportion of dedifferentiated LSECs increased significantly post infection. The electron microscopy results showed that the number of fenestrate was decreased and there was complete basement membrane formation in LSECs following infection. The qPCR and Western blot results showed that EMT, and fibrosis-related indicators of LSECs and the liver changed significantly during the early stages of infection and were aggravated in the middle and late stages. The pathological changes in LSECs may promote EMT and liver fibrosis induced by Schistosoma japonicum infection.
Biomphalaria pfeifferi (Gastropoda: Planorbidae) in Lake Malawi and Upper Shire River, Mangochi District, Malawi: Distribution, Genetic Diversity and Pre-Patent Schistosome Infections
Authors: Alharbi Mohammad H. , Condemine Charlotte , Hesketh Josie , Kayuni Sekeleghe A. , Arme Thomas M. , Archer John , Jones Sam , LaCourse E. James , Makaula Peter , Musaya Janelisa , Stothard J. Russell
Published: February 2023

In November 2017, Biomphalaria pfeifferi, the key intermediate host for Schistosoma mansoni in Africa, was first reported in Lake Malawi, Mangochi District. Two subsequent malacological surveys in 2018 and 2019 confirmed its lacustrine presence, as well as its presence along the Upper Shire River. These surveys provided sufficient specimens for analyses of the genetic structure and a transmission assessment for intestinal schistosomiasis. A total of 76 collected snails were characterized by a DNA sequence analysis of a 650 bp fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (cox1); by size fractionation of six fluorescently labelled microsatellite loci (Bgμl16, Bgμl, Bpf8, rg6, U-7, and rg9);by denaturing PAGE; and by detection of pre-patent Schistosoma infection by real-time PCR with a TaqMan® probe. Five closely related cox1 haplotypes were identified, all present within a single location, with only one haplotype common across all the other locations sampled. No allelic size variation was detected with the microsatellites and all loci were monomorphic. Overall, the pre-patent prevalence of Schistosoma spp. was 31%, with infected snails found at several sampling locations. In this part of Lake Malawi, Bi. pfeifferi exhibits low genetic diversity and is clearly being exposed to the miracidia of S. mansoni, which is likely facilitating the autochthonous transmission of this parasite.
Strongyloides and COVID-19: Challenges and Opportunities for Future Research
Authors: Seeger Daniel , Cornejo Cisneros Enrique , Lucar Jose , Denyer Rachel
Published: February 2023

Strongyloides stercoralis is a soil transmitted helminth endemic to tropical and subtropical areas that can persist for decades in immunocompetent human hosts as a chronic asymptomatic infection. The use of corticosteroids, a mainstay of treatment for patients hospitalized with severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19), can trigger a life-threatening Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome and disseminated disease. We identified 22 previously published cases of strongyloidiasis occurring in individuals with COVID-19, with one death reported among the seven patients who had Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome. A total of seventeen patients had previously received corticosteroids, and of the five with no prior corticosteroid use, one presented with hyperinfection syndrome. We identify the key challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of Strongyloides within the context of COVID-19, including our imprecise knowledge of the global distribution of Strongyloides, the overlapping symptoms and signs of COVID-19 and Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome, the limited utility of eosinophilia as a clinical marker for strongyloidiasis in this setting, the lack of validated algorithms to screen for Strongyloides prior to corticosteroid use, and the paucity of treatment options for critically ill patients with COVID-19 who cannot take oral ivermectin. Future research should focus on improved diagnostic methods and population prevalence estimates, optimizing the approaches for Strongyloides screening in persons with COVID-19 (including clinical trial participants and strategies for resource-limited settings) and better defining the role of pre-emptive treatment.
Diagram of High-Energy Nuclear Collisions
Authors: Andronov Evgeny , Kuich Magdalena , Gazdzicki Marek
Published: February 2023

Many new particles, mostly hadrons, are produced in high-energy collisions between atomic nuclei. The most popular models describing the hadron-production process are based on the creation, evolution and decay of resonances, strings or quark–gluon plasma. The validity of these models is under vivid discussion, and it seems that a common framework for this discussion is missing. Here, for the first time, we explicitly introduce the diagram of high-energy nuclear collisions, where domains of the dominance of different hadron-production processes in the space of laboratory-controlled parameters, the collision energy and nuclear-mass number of colliding nuclei are indicated. We argue that the recent experimental results suggest the location of boundaries between the domains, allowing for the first time to sketch an example diagram. Finally, we discuss the immediate implications for experimental measurements and model development following the proposed sketch of the diagram.
Genomic Epidemiology and Transmission Dynamics of Global Coxsackievirus B4
Authors: Xiao Jinbo , Wang Jianxing , Lu Huanhuan , Song Yang , Sun Dapeng , Han Zhenzhi , Li Jichen , Yang Qian , Yan Dongmei , Zhu Shuangli , Pei Yaowen , Wang Xianjun , Xu Wenbo , Zhang Yong
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to determine the global genetic diversity and transmission dynamics of coxsackievirus B4 (CVB4) and to propose future directions for disease surveillance. Next-generation sequencing was performed to obtain the complete genome sequence of CVB4, and the genetic diversity and transmission dynamics of CVB4 worldwide were analyzed using bioinformatics methods such as phylogenetic analysis, evolutionary dynamics, and phylogeographic analysis. Forty complete genomes of CVB4 were identified from asymptomatic infected individuals and hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) patients. Frequent recombination between CVB4 and EV-B multiple serotypes in the 3Dpol region was found and formed 12 recombinant patterns (A-L). Among these, the CVB4 isolated from asymptomatic infected persons and HFMD patients belonged to lineages H and I, respectively. Transmission dynamics analysis based on the VP1 region revealed that CVB4 epidemics in countries outside China were dominated by the D genotype, whereas the E genotype was dominant in China, and both genotypes evolved at a rate of > 6.50 × 10−3 substitutions/site/year. CVB4 spreads through the population unseen, with the risk of disease outbreaks persisting as susceptible individuals accumulate. Our findings add to publicly available CVB4 genomic sequence data and deepen our understanding of CVB4 molecular epidemiology.
Introductions of Human-Origin Seasonal H3N2, H1N2 and Pre-2009 H1N1 Influenza Viruses to Swine in Brazil
Authors: Tochetto Caroline , Junqueira Dennis M. , Anderson Tavis K. , Gava Danielle , Haach Vanessa , Cantão Mauricio E. , Vincent Baker Amy L. , Schaefer Rejane
Published: February 2023

In South America, the evolutionary history of influenza A virus (IAV) in swine has been obscured by historically low levels of surveillance, and this has hampered the assessment of the zoonotic risk of emerging viruses. The extensive genetic diversity of IAV in swine observed globally has been attributed mainly to bidirectional transmission between humans and pigs. We conducted surveillance in swine in Brazil during 2011–2020 and characterized 107 H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2 IAVs. Phylogenetic analysis based on HA and NA segments revealed that human seasonal IAVs were introduced at least eight times into swine in Brazil since the mid-late 1980s. Our analyses revealed three genetic clades of H1 within the 1B lineage originated from three distinct spillover events, and an H3 lineage that has diversified into three genetic clades. The N2 segment from human seasonal H1N2 and H3N2 viruses was introduced into swine six times and a single introduction of an N1 segment from the human H1N1 virus was identified. Additional analysis revealed further reassortment with H1N1pdm09 viruses. All these introductions resulted in IAVs that apparently circulate only in Brazilian herds. These results reinforce the significant contributions of human IAVs to the genetic diversity of IAV in swine and reiterate the importance of surveillance of IAV in pigs.
High Prevalence of Alternative Diagnoses in Children and Adolescents with Suspected Long COVID—A Single Center Cohort Study
Authors: Goretzki Sarah C. , Brasseler Maire , Dogan Burcin , Hühne Tom , Bernard Daniel , Schönecker Anne , Steindor Mathis , Gangfuß Andrea , Della Marina Adela , Felderhoff-Müser Ursula , Dohna-Schwake Christian , Bruns Nora
Published: February 2023

Background: Long COVID (LC) is a diagnosis that requires exclusion of alternative somatic and mental diseases. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of differential diagnoses in suspected pediatric LC patients and assess whether adult LC symptom clusters are applicable to pediatric patients. Materials and Methods: Pediatric presentations at the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Department of the University Hospital Essen (Germany) were assessed retrospectively. The correlation of initial symptoms and final diagnoses (LC versus other diseases or unclarified) was assessed. The sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values of adult LC symptom clusters were calculated. Results: Of 110 patients, 32 (29%) suffered from LC, 52 (47%) were diagnosed with alternative somatic/mental diseases, and 26 (23%) remained unclarified. Combined neurological and respiratory clusters displayed a sensitivity of 0.97 (95% CI 0.91–1.00) and a negative predictive value of 0.97 (0.92–1.00) for LC. Discussion/Conclusions: The prevalence of alternative somatic and mental diseases in pediatric patients with suspected LC is high. The range of underlying diseases is wide, including chronic and potentially life-threatening conditions. Neurological and respiratory symptom clusters may help to identify patients that are unlikely to be suffering from LC.
Social Media Content on Immunology: Is an Assessment by the Scientific Community Required?
Authors: Morra Simone , Di Bello Francesco , Collà Ruvolo Claudia , Califano Gianluigi
Published: February 2023

In recent years, vaccines and immunotherapy have become two of the most promising and effective tools in the fight against a wide range of diseases, from the common cold to cancer [...]
BNT162b2 COVID-19 Vaccine Safety among Healthcare Workers of a Tertiary Hospital in Italy
Authors: Beccia Flavia , Regazzi Luca , Marziali Eleonora , Beccia Viria , Pascucci Domenico , Mores Nadia , Vetrugno Giuseppe , Laurenti Patrizia
Published: February 2023

Millions of people have died because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The vaccination campaign helped tackle the pandemic and saved millions of lives. In a retrospective pharmacovigilance study, we explored the safety of the BNT162b2 (Comirnaty) vaccine among healthcare workers (HCWs) in a large Italian teaching hospital, and 2428 Adverse Events Reports (AERs) filed by HCWs after the administration of the first dose of vaccine were collected and analyzed, reporting the results quantitively and comparing them to the vaccine Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC). Spearman’s correlation coefficients were computed to investigate the correlation among reported adverse effects, and recurrent clusters of symptoms were investigated through the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and k-means Cluster Analysis. The BNT162b2 vaccine’s safety profile was favorable, with predominant reports of early onset, mild, non-serious and short-term resolved symptoms. We observed higher than the expected frequency for various non-serious undesirable effects, especially among those listed and classified as less common in the SPC. Furthermore, we identified three clusters of adverse effects that were frequently reported together, defined by the presence/absence of fatigue, malaise, localized pain, chills, pyrexia, insomnia, nausea and injection site pain. Post-marketing pharmacovigilance activities, together with targeted public health interventions, can be valuable tools to promote vaccination and improve the control of the spread of the pandemic, especially in sensitive settings and populations such as hospitals and healthcare professionals.
Transient Positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR without Induction of Systemic Immune Responses
Authors: Gärtner Barbara C. , Klemis Verena , Schmidt Tina , Sester Martina , Meyer Tim
Published: February 2023

SARS-CoV-2 testing is dominated by PCR to guide treatment and individual as well as public health preventive measures. Among 1700 football (soccer) players and staff of the German Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 who were regularly tested by PCR twice weekly, 98 individuals had a positive PCR (May 2020 to mid-January 2021). A subset of these were retested shortly after the initial positive result. Among those, 11 subjects were identified who only had a transient single positive PCR of low viral load. All individuals were asymptomatic and none developed long COVID. We tested SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA as well as SARS-CoV-2 specific CD4 und CD8 positive T cells, and showed that only one out of 11 individuals developed SARS-CoV-2 specific cellular and humoral immunity after the positive PCR, whereas a specific immunity was undetectable in all other individuals. Thus, a single positive PCR might indicate that transient colonization of the upper respiratory tract with SARS-CoV-2 may occur without systemic induction of specific adaptive immunity. Together with test artifacts as another potential reason for a transiently positive test, this finding may favor cautious interpretation of positive PCR results or retesting before initiating intervening treatment or infection control measures in some cases.