bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exploration of the Critical Risk Factors in Sustainable Telecom Services: An Analysis of Indian Telecom Industries
Authors: Chen Wen-Kuo , Nalluri Venkateswarlu , Ma Suresh , Lin Mei-Min , Lin Ching-Torng
Published: January 2021

Different sources of risk factors can occur in sustainable supply chain management due to its complex nature. The telecommunication service firm cannot implement multiple improvement practices altogether to overcome the risk factors with limited resources. The industries should evaluate the relationship between risk factors and explore the determinants of improvement measures. The purpose of the present study is to identify and analyze critical risk factors (CRFs) for enhancing sustainable supply chain management practices in the Indian telecommunication industry using interpretive structural modelling (ISM). Risk factors are identified through a literature survey, and then with the help of experts, nine CRFs are identified using a fuzzy Delphi method (FDM). The relationship among these CRFs has been analyzed using ISM, and the driving and the dependence power of those CRFs are analyzed. Results indicate that both “government policies (laws and regulations)” and “the impact of rapid change in technology” are independent or key factors that affect the sustainability of the telecommunications supply chain. In addition, results provide significant managerial implications, including enhanced sustainability, and the government should build justice, fairness, open laws, certainties, and regulations to prevent risk in the telecommunications industry supply chain; service providers should monitor the rapidly evolving technologies and focus on technical learning and organizational capacity development to overcome the impact of technological changes. The contribution of this study is using a novel approach to establish a hierarchical structural model for an effective understanding of CRFs relationships and to explore decisive risk factors that can help telecom service providers to better plan and design effective improvement strategies to enhance sustainability supply chain management.
The Contribution of Peripheral Large Scientific Infrastructures to Sustainable Development from a Global and Territorial Perspective: The Case of IFMIF-DONES
Authors: Fernández-Pérez Virginia , Peña-García Antonio
Published: January 2021

Large scientific infrastructures are a major focus of progress. They have a big impact on the economic and social development of their surroundings. Departing from these well-known facts, it is not trivial to affirm whether the global contribution to Sustainable Development (SD) is higher when they are built in peripheral and not highly developed provinces instead of capitals and rich areas. Besides the economic impact on depressed areas, other SD-related parameters like the attachment of young and skilled people to their homeland, the avoidance of uncontrolled migrations from rural to dense urban zones, the growth of new focuses of knowledge independent from the lines of research established in the universities of the capitals, the indirect impact of auxiliary infrastructures and others must be analyzed. Concerning the next implementation of the “International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility—Demo Oriented Neutron Source” (IFMIF-DONES) project in Granada (Spain), one depressed and tourism-dependent zone, an analysis and comparison with similar infrastructures were done and presented.
Risk Analysis for Earthquake-Damaged Buildings Using Point Cloud and BIM Data: A Case Study of the Daeseong Apartment Complex in Pohang, South Korea
Authors: Park Eun Soo , Seo Hee Chang
Published: January 2021

Since 2016, the frequency and scale of earthquakes have been rapidly increasing in South Korea. In particular, the damage caused by the Gyeongju and Pohang earthquakes has attracted considerable attention since 2017, leading to changes in social insensitivity to safety and the perception of seismic damage to facilities. However, the current risk assessment technology for earthquake-damaged buildings is subjective and inaccurate, as it is based on visual inspection for a limited time. Accordingly, this study focuses on improving the method of analysis of disaster-damaged buildings. To this end, the study analyzes the risk factors of earthquake-damaged buildings by comparing point cloud data using 3D scanning technology with Building Information Modeling (BIM) spatial information, which is based on the existing design information. To apply this technology, existing design information was acquired through BIM modeling of the existing 2D design drawings of Building E in the Daeseong Apartment Complex (located in Heunghae-eup, Pohang City). This study is expected to contribute to improving the efficiency of measurement technology for earthquake-damaged buildings by analyzing old buildings’ BIM-based 3D modeling visualization information without drawing information, and thus improving the accuracy of seismic damage risk measurement by scanning point cloud data.
Sustainable Management of Sports Federations: The Indirect Effects of Perceived Service on Member’s Loyalty
Authors: Cuesta-Valiño Pedro , Gutiérrez-Rodríguez Pablo , Loranca-Valle Cristina
Published: January 2021

Sports federations are non-profit organizations that compete for members and resources. These organizations are obliged to cooperate on the environment, nature conservation, and sustainability together with other public bodies. Given this situation and the necessity to differentiate themselves from commercial sports providers, it is essential for sports federations to create loyalty. The objective of this article is to provide an in-depth study of the variables that explain federation members’ loyalty, which is the best tool for federations to meet their sustainable and non-profit objectives. Having made an exhaustive review of the literature on loyalty, an empirical study is made of the loyalty antecedents (service quality, satisfaction, trust, and commitment), using a questionnaire of members of all of Spain’s karate federations. This empirical study has led to a model of structural equations that gives a perfect explanation of loyalty based on the relationships between the various variables, starting with service quality and considering the other variables to be mediating variables between service quality and loyalty. Furthermore, the findings show that service quality is the best option for improving member loyalty through some of the mediators proposed.
Monitoring the Implementation of Exponential Organizations through the Assessment of Their Project Portfolio: Case Study
Authors: Díaz-Piloneta Marina , Ortega-Fernández Francisco , Morán-Palacios Henar , Rodríguez-Montequín Vicente
Published: January 2021

Many organizations are currently face significant challenges in terms of sustainability and technological development. Achieving sustainability in business activities, interweaving social, economic, and environmental perspectives, is one of the most challenging goals for companies. On the other hand, as technology advances exponentially, organizations grow in a linear way. This fact causes a gap which increases over the time. Models and tools have been developed to try to solve both problems separately; on one side to make the organization grow exponentially, and on the other side to incorporate sustainability into the business model. However, they do not allow enough time to know if the actions carried out really achieve their aim. The model presented provides a solution to both problems by monitoring the evolution of organizations towards an exponential structure through the analysis of the project portfolio. The main objective is to know how the orientation of ongoing projects has changed during the last period, in order to position them in terms of achieving the desired sustainability-oriented transformation. With the model designed, it is possible to know if the actions developed by the company are really heading towards a sustainable model and exponential growth. With the aim of validating the model, it has been applied in an innovation organization. With this model, the level of exponential progress of the organization was determined, as well as the goals that have been attained best and worst so far.
Modeling of Waste Flow in Industrial Symbiosis System at City-Region Level: A Case Study of Jinchang, China
Authors: Lu Chengpeng , Pan Xiaoli , Chen Xingpeng , Mao Jinhuang , Pang Jiaxing , Xue Bing
Published: January 2021

Waste is increasingly used as a renewable resource. Industrial symbiosis is an innovative concept for more efficient use of waste streams within industrial complexes, with the aim of reducing the overall environmental impact of the complex. Industrial symbiosis plays a more important role in promoting green economic growth and building low-carbon cities. Based on the ecological theoretical framework, combined with Waste Flow Analysis (WFA), the material flow analysis (MFA) and production matrix methods were used as the core to construct the Industrial Symbiosis System Waste Flow Metabolism Analysis (ISSWFMA) model. In addition, taking the “Jinchang Model” as an example, a typical case selected by the National Development and Reform Commission of China’s regional circular economy development model, we conducted a refined quantitative study on the flow and metabolism of waste flow in the regional industrial symbiosis system at the City-Region level using the circulation degree index. The following conclusions were obtained from the study: The ISSWFMA model can better describe the flow and metabolism of waste streams in the industrial symbiosis system at the City-Region Level and can provide data and methods for storage management. As the internal industrial chain and the correlation between various departments continuously improved, the Circulation Index (CI) of solid waste, wastewater, and exhaust gas in the industrial symbiosis system of Jinchang City showed an overall increasing trend, the degree of recycling was continuously increasing, the industrial symbiosis ability was continuously enhanced, and the system structure was more complete. At the same time, based on the analysis of different wastes, the industrial symbiosis is developed at different stages; based on the analysis of solid wastes, the industrial symbiosis ability of Jinchang’s Industrial Symbiosis System has strengthened and accelerated the fastest from 2005 to 2010; based on the analysis of wastewater, the industrial symbiosis ability of the system strengthened slowly during the whole study period; and based on the analysis of exhaust gas, the industrial symbiosis ability of the system continued to strengthen rapidly during the whole study period. Finally, on the basis of further discussion on the selection of waste recycling paths, we proposed to give full play to the role of market mechanisms, and to build recycling areas and ecological areas by strengthening industrial symbiosis and its derived urban symbiosis to achieve the goals of natural resource conservation, ecological environment protection, and harmonious coexistence between human and nature.
Correlating the Sky View Factor with the Pedestrian Thermal Environment in a Hot Arid University Campus Plaza
Authors: Shata Randa Osama , Mahmoud Ayman Hassaan , Fahmy Mohammad
Published: January 2021

In hot, arid regions on university campuses, students are more vulnerable to heat stresses than in street canyons in terms of function; however, the knowledge of the impact of built environments on thermal performance is still lacking. In two summer and winter days, the shading effect of the existing urban trees pattern in a university campus in Egypt was examined to correlate their Sky View Factor (SVF) with the thermal environment, meteorology, Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET), and Universal Thermal Comfort Index (UTCI). The ENVI-met model was used in order to assess meteorological parameters, followed by SVF calculation in the Rayman program. Meteorological field measurements validated the simulation model and measured the Leaf Area Index (LAI) of two native urban trees to model the in-situ canopies foliage. In summer, the results showed a significant direct impact of the SVF on mean radiant temperature (Tmrt), PET, and UTCI; however, the excessive shading by trees on materials with a low albedo and low wind speed could lead to a slight increase in air temperature. Meanwhile, in the winter, SVF did not affect the microclimatic variables, PET, or UTCI. The resulting insight into the correlation between SVF and Tmrt emphasizes the importance of urban trees in modifying the microclimates of already-existing university plazas.
The Implementation of New Technologies in Customer Value Management—A Sustainable Development Perspective
Authors: Kucia Michał , Hajduk Grzegorz , Mazurek Grzegorz , Kotula Nina
Published: January 2021

The constant development of information and communication technologies (ICT) has led to numerous social and economic changes. In this article, we aimed to identify the framework of use of new technologies in the process of customer value management from the perspective of sustainable development in the context of the concept of the engaged customer. The research objective involves an empirical verification of the forms of customer engagement from the point of view of the utilisation of ICT. To discover and explore the patterns that follow, research based on quantitative methods was carried out. The study was conducted with a sample of 1134 individual respondents from Poland, which is one of the biggest and fastest growing e-market in Europe. The findings prove that in the process of customer value management, informal communication, both offline and online plays a critical role. From the perspective of business practice, a company should stimulate customer engagement by making use of the online environment, thus gaining greater control over the entire process of co-creation of value for both customers and itself. Taking advantage of ICT in the process of customer value management is highly relevant and much desired during the time of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
Risk-Based Thinking as a Basis for Efficient Occupational Safety Management in the Mining Industry
Authors: Rudakov Marat , Gridina Elena , Kretschmann Jürgen
Published: January 2021

This article deals with the role and the place of risk-based thinking in today’s occupational safety and health (OSH) systems used by mining companies. A brief survey on modern challenges and pressures affecting companies, as well as on the structure of supply chains, is given. It is demonstrated that, despite all measures and actions that are being taken, occupational injuries in the mining sector: (a) remain a matter of serious concern and (b) should be examined and investigated through the lens of the company’s complexity. The objective of the article is two-fold: to trace the evolution of risk-based thinking from quality management systems towards OSH management systems and to demonstrate how this approach can be implemented by a company performing open-pit mining operations. The matrix method along with the Fine and Kinney’s method was used in assessing OSH risks, and the checklist method along with a Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT)analysis was used while assessing OSH opportunities. The results of the study make it possible to conclude that risk-based thinking incorporated into an OSH management system can be a robust and efficient instrument for OSH planning and implementation. This article contains an example of assessing OSH risks and opportunities for a dragline operator and also discusses the possible ways of using the data on the OSH risks and opportunities that were identified in OSH activities. The final part also contains comments and reflections on various risks mining companies are facing nowadays.
Prediction of Land Use and Land Cover Changes in Mumbai City, India, Using Remote Sensing Data and a Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network-Based Markov Chain Model
Authors: Vinayak Bhanage , Lee Han Soo , Gedem Shirishkumar
Published: January 2021

In this study, prediction of the future land use land cover (LULC) changes over Mumbai and its surrounding region, India, was conducted to have reference information in urban development. To obtain the historical dynamics of the LULC, a supervised classification algorithm was applied to the Landsat images of 1992, 2002, and 2011. Based on spatial drivers and LULC of 1992 and 2002, the multiple perceptron neural network (MLPNN)-based Markov chain model (MCM) was applied to simulate the LULC in 2011, which was further validated using kappa statistics. Thereafter, by using 2002 and 2011 LULC, MLPNN-MCM was applied to predict the LULC in 2050. This study predicted the prompt urban growth over the suburban regions of Mumbai, which shows, by 2050, the Urban class will occupy 46.87% (1328.77 km2) of the entire study area. As compared to the LULC in 2011, the Urban and Forest areas in 2050 will increase by 14.31% and 2.05%, respectively, while the area under the Agriculture/Sparsely Vegetated and Barren land will decline by 16.87%. The class of water and the coastal feature will experience minute fluctuations (<1%) in the future. The predicted LULC for 2050 can be used as a thematic map in various climatic, environmental, and urban planning models to achieve the aims of sustainable development over the region.
How New Food Networks Change the Urban Environment: A Case Study in the Contribution of Sustainable, Regional Food Systems to Green and Healthy Cities
Authors: van Dooren Noël , Leseman Brecht , van der Meulen Suzanne
Published: January 2021

More and more people worldwide live in urban areas, and these areas face many problems, of which a sustainable food provision is one. In this paper we aim to show that a transition towards more sustainable, regionally organized food systems strongly contributes to green, livable cities. The article describes a case study in the Dutch region of Arnhem–Nijmegen. Partners of a network on sustainable food in this region were interviewed on how they expect the food system to develop, and in design studies possible futures are explored. Both the interviews and the designs give support to the idea that indeed sustainable food systems can be developed to contribute to green livable cities. They show that the quality and meaning of existing green areas can be raised; new areas can be added to a public green system, and connections with green surroundings are enforced. They also show that inhabitants or consumers can be stimulated to become so called food citizens, highlighting that the relation of food systems and livable cities is a very close one.
An Integrated Approach for Eco-Design and Its Application in LED Lighting Product Development
Authors: Su Daizhong , Casamayor Jose L. , Xu Xuemin
Published: January 2021

Lighting products are essential for our modern life nowadays, but they also produce high negative impacts on the environment. Although there are tools and methods available for reducing the environmental impact of lighting products, it is a challenging task to integrate them throughout the product development process. To overcome the challenge, this research developed an approach to integrate tools/methods relevant for the eco-design through product development process to reduce the environmental impact of lighting products. Six types of methods, such module design, and 30 tools, such as lifecycle assessment software packages, are considered in the integrated approach. The product specification with eco-constrains is established for implementation at each design stage to ensure the product eco-features. The approach was applied in the development of an LED table lamp which was then assessed in comparison with a benchmark LED lamp regarding environmental lifecycle impact and lighting performance. The comparative assessment results indicate that the LED lamp developed with this approach is much better than the benchmark lamp.
Simulation of Hydraulic Cylinder Cushioning
Authors: Algar Antonio , Freire Javier , Castilla Robert , Codina Esteban
Published: January 2021

The internal cushioning systems of hydraulic linear actuators avoid mechanical shocks at the end of their stroke. The design where the piston with perimeter grooves regulates the flow by standing in front of the outlet port has been investigated. First, a bond graph dynamic model has been developed, including the flow throughout the internal cushion design, characterized in detail by computational fluid-dynamic simulation. Following this, the radial movement of the piston and the fluid-dynamic coefficients, experimentally validated, are integrated into the dynamic model. The registered radial movement is in coherence with the significant drag force estimated in the CFD simulation, generated by the flow through the grooves, where the laminar flow regime predominates. Ultimately, the model aims to predict the behavior of the cushioning during the movement of the arm of an excavator. The analytical model developed predicts the performance of the cushioning system, in coherence with empirical results. There is an optimal behavior, highly influenced by the mechanical stress conditions of the system, subject to a compromise between an increasing section of the grooves and an optimization of the radial gap.
COVID-19 in Toronto: A Spatial Exploratory Analysis
Authors: Vaz Eric
Published: January 2021

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on a global scale. Evident signs of spatial-explicit characteristics have been noted. Nevertheless, publicly available data are scarce, impeding a complete picture of the locational impacts of COVID-19. This paper aimed to assess, confirm, and validate several geographical attributes of the geography of the pandemic. A spatial modeling framework defined whether there was a clear spatial profile to COVID-19 and the key socio-economic characteristics of the distribution in Toronto. A stepwise backward regression model was generated within a geographical information systems framework to establish the key variables influencing the spread of COVID-19 in Toronto. Further to this analysis, spatial autocorrelation was performed at the global and local levels, followed by an error and lag spatial regression to understand which explanatory framework best explained disease spread. The findings support that COVID-19 is strongly spatially explicit and that geography matters in preventing spread. Social injustice, infrastructure, and neighborhood cohesion are evident characteristics of the increasing spread and incidence of COVID-19. Mitigation of incidents can be carried out by intertwining local policies with spatial monitoring strategies at the neighborhood level throughout large cities, ensuring open data and adequacy of information management within the knowledge chain.
Pattern Recognition of Grating Perimeter Intrusion Behavior in Deep Learning Method
Authors: Li Xianfeng , Xu Sen , Hua Xiaopeng
Published: January 2021

An intrusion behavior recognition method based on deep learning is proposed in this paper in order to improve the recognition accuracy of raster perimeter intrusion behavior. The Mach–Zehnder fiber optic interferometer was used to collect the external vibration signal sensing unit, capture the external vibration signal, use the cross-correlation characteristic method to obtain the minimum frame length of the fiber vibration signal, and preprocess the intrusion signal according to the signal strength. The intrusion signals were superimposed and several sections of signals were intercepted by fixed window length; the spectrum information is obtained by Fourier transform of the intercepted stationary signals. The convolution neural network was introduced into the pattern recognition of the intrusion signals in the optical fiber perimeter defense zone, and the different characteristics of the intrusion signals were extracted, so as to realize the accurate identification of different intrusion signals. Experimental results showed that this method was highly sensitive to intrusion events, could effectively reduce the false alarm rate of intrusion signals, and could improve the accuracy and efficiency of intrusion signal recognition.
Lacunary Möbius Fractals on the Unit Disk
Authors: Mork L. K. , Sullivan Keith , Ulness Darin J.
Published: January 2021

Centered polygonal lacunary functions are a type of lacunary function that exhibit behaviors that set them apart from other lacunary functions, this includes rotational symmetry. This work will build off of earlier studies to incorporate the automorphism group of the open unit disk D, which is a subgroup of the Möbius transformations. The behavior, dimension, dynamics, and sensitivity of filled-in Julia sets and Mandelbrot sets to variables will be discussed in detail. Additionally, several visualizations of this three-dimensional parameter space will be presented.
Transmission of Zearalenone, Deoxynivalenol, and Their Derivatives from Sows to Piglets during Lactation
Authors: Benthem de Grave Xandra , Saltzmann Janine , Laurain Julia , Rodriguez Maria A , Molist Francesc , Dänicke Sven , Santos Regiane R
Published: January 2021

Sows were fed naturally contaminated diets containing: (i) 100 ppb zearalenone (ZEN) one week before farrowing and during the lactation period (at 26 days), (ii) 100 ppb ZEN one week before farrowing and 300 ppb ZEN during the lactation period, or (iii) 300 ppb ZEN one week before farrowing and during the lactation period. All diets contained 250 ppb deoxynivalenol (DON). The highest levels of ZEN, α-ZEL, or β-ZEL were observed in the serum of sows fed 300 ppb ZEN before farrowing and during lactation. However, only α-ZEL was significantly increased in the colostrum and milk of these sows. Sows fed the 300 ppb ZEN during the complete trial presented a significant decrease in backfat thickness before farrowing. This effect was accompanied by a decrease in serum leptin levels. These sows also presented a decrease in estradiol levels and this effect was observed in their piglets exposed during lactation, which presented increased glucagon-like peptide 1, but no changes in serum levels of ZEN, α-ZEL, or β-ZEL. Although all sows were fed the same levels of DON, the serum levels of DON and de-epoxy-DON were increased only in the serum of piglets from the sows fed a diet with the highest ZEN levels during the whole experimental period. Moreover, these piglets presented gut inflammation, as indicated by significantly increased calprotectin levels in their serum.
Gravitational Waves in Scalar–Tensor–Vector Gravity Theory
Authors: Liu Yunqi , Qian Wei-Liang , Gong Yungui , Wang Bin
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we study the properties of gravitational waves in the scalar–tensor–vector gravity theory. The polarizations of the gravitational waves are investigated by analyzing the relative motion of the test particles. It is found that the interaction between the matter and vector field in the theory leads to two additional transverse polarization modes. By making use of the polarization content, the stress-energy pseudo-tensor is calculated by employing the perturbed equation method. Additionally, the relaxed field equation for the modified gravity in question is derived by using the Landau–Lifshitz formalism suitable to systems with non-negligible self-gravity.
Population-Specific ACE2 Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms Have Limited Impact on SARS-CoV-2 Infectivity In Vitro
Authors: Hashizume Mei , Gonzalez Gabriel , Ono Chikako , Takashima Ayako , Iwasaki Masaharu
Published: January 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), employs host-cell angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) for cell entry. Genetic analyses of ACE2 have identified several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) specific to different human populations. Molecular dynamics simulations have indicated that several of these SNPs could affect interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and ACE2, thereby providing a partial explanation for the regional differences observed in SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and severity. However, the significance of population-specific ACE2 SNPs in SARS-CoV-2 infectivity is unknown, as no in vitro validation studies have been performed. Here, we analyzed the impact of eight SNPs found in specific populations on receptor binding and cell entry in vitro. Except for a SNP causing a nonsense mutation that reduced ACE2 expression, none of the selected SNPs markedly altered the interaction between ACE2 and the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SARS-2-S), which is responsible for receptor recognition and cell entry, or the efficiency of viral cell entry mediated by SARS-2-S. Our findings indicate that ACE2 polymorphisms have limited impact on the ACE2-dependent cell entry of SARS-CoV-2 and underscore the importance of future studies on the involvement of population-specific SNPs of other host genes in susceptibility toward SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Genetic and Antigenetic Characterization of the Novel Kotalahti Bat Lyssavirus (KBLV)
Authors: Calvelage Sten , Tammiranta Niina , Nokireki Tiina , Gadd Tuija , Eggerbauer Elisa , Zaeck Luca M. , Potratz Madlin , Wylezich Claudia , Höper Dirk , Müller Thomas , Finke Stefan , Freuling Conrad M.
Published: January 2021

There is a growing diversity of bat-associated lyssaviruses in the Old World. In August 2017, a dead Brandt’s bat (Myotis brandtii) tested positive for rabies and based on partial sequence analysis, the novel Kotalahti bat lyssavirus (KBLV) was identified. Because the bat was in an autolyzed state, isolation of KBLV was neither successful after three consecutive cell passages on cells nor in mice. Next generation sequencing (NGS) was applied using Ion Torrent ™ S5 technology coupled with target enrichment via hybridization-based capture (myBaits®) was used to sequence 99% of the genome, comprising of 11,878 nucleotides (nt). KBLV is most closely related to EBLV-2 (78.7% identity), followed by KHUV (79.0%) and BBLV (77.6%), supporting the assignment as phylogroup I lyssavirus. Interestingly, all of these lyssaviruses were also isolated from bat species of the genus Myotis, thus supporting that M. brandtii is likely the reservoir host. All information on antigenic and genetic divergence fulfil the species demarcation criteria by ICTV, so that we recommend KBLV as a novel species within the Lyssavirus genus. Next to sequence analyses, assignment to phylogroup I was functionally corroborated by cross-neutralization of G-deleted RABV, pseudotyped with KBLV-G by sera from RABV vaccinated humans. This suggests that conventional RABV vaccines also confer protection against the novel KBLV.
TRIM26 Facilitates HSV-2 Infection by Downregulating Antiviral Responses through the IRF3 Pathway
Authors: Dhawan Tushar , Zahoor Muhammad Atif , Heryani Nishant , Workenhe Samuel Tekeste , Nazli Aisha , Kaushic Charu
Published: January 2021

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is the primary cause of genital herpes which results in significant morbidity and mortality, especially in women, worldwide. HSV-2 is transmitted primarily through infection of epithelial cells at skin and mucosal surfaces. Our earlier work to examine interactions between HSV-2 and vaginal epithelial cells demonstrated that infection of the human vaginal epithelial cell line (VK2) with HSV-2 resulted in increased expression of TRIM26, a negative regulator of the Type I interferon pathway. Given that upregulation of TRIM26 could negatively affect anti-viral pathways, we decided to further study the role of TRIM26 in HSV-2 infection and replication. To do this, we designed and generated two cell lines derived from VK2s with TRIM26 overexpressed (OE) and knocked out (KO). Both, along with wildtype (WT) VK2, were infected with HSV-2 and viral titres were measured in supernatants 24 h later. Our results showed significantly enhanced virus production by TRIM26 OE cells, but very little replication in TRIM26 KO cells. We next examined interferon-β production and expression of two distinct interferon stimulated genes (ISGs), MX1 and ISG15, in all three cell lines, prior to and following HSV-2 infection. The absence of TRIM26 (KO) significantly upregulated interferon-β production at baseline and even further after HSV-2 infection. TRIM26 KO cells also showed significant increase in the expression of MX1 and ISG15 before and after HSV-2 infection. Immunofluorescent staining indicated that overexpression of TRIM26 substantially decreased the nuclear localization of IRF3, the primary mediator of ISG activation, before and after HSV-2 infection. Taken together, our data indicate that HSV-2 utilizes host factor TRIM26 to evade anti-viral response and thereby increase its replication in vaginal epithelial cells.
Embryonic Origins of Virus-Induced Hearing Loss: Overview of Molecular Etiology
Authors: Karimi-Boroujeni Maryam , Zahedi-Amiri Ali , Coombs Kevin M.
Published: January 2021

Hearing loss, one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions, affects around half a billion people worldwide, including 34 million children. The World Health Organization estimates that the prevalence of disabling hearing loss will increase to over 900 million people by 2050. Many cases of congenital hearing loss are triggered by viral infections during different stages of pregnancy. However, the molecular mechanisms by which viruses induce hearing loss are not sufficiently explored, especially cases that are of embryonic origins. The present review first describes the cellular and molecular characteristics of the auditory system development at early stages of embryogenesis. These developmental hallmarks, which initiate upon axial specification of the otic placode as the primary root of the inner ear morphogenesis, involve the stage-specific regulation of several molecules and pathways, such as retinoic acid signaling, Sonic hedgehog, and Wnt. Different RNA and DNA viruses contributing to congenital and acquired hearing loss are then discussed in terms of their potential effects on the expression of molecules that control the formation of the auditory and vestibular compartments following otic vesicle differentiation. Among these viruses, cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex virus appear to have the most effect upon initial molecular determinants of inner ear development. Moreover, of the molecules governing the inner ear development at initial stages, SOX2, FGFR3, and CDKN1B are more affected by viruses causing either congenital or acquired hearing loss. Abnormalities in the function or expression of these molecules influence processes like cochlear development and production of inner ear hair and supporting cells. Nevertheless, because most of such virus–host interactions were studied in unrelated tissues, further validations are needed to confirm whether these viruses can mediate the same effects in physiologically relevant models simulating otic vesicle specification and growth.
A Nanoparticle-Based Trivalent Vaccine Targeting the Glycan Binding VP8* Domains of Rotaviruses
Authors: Xia Ming , Huang Pengwei , Jiang Xi , Tan Ming
Published: January 2021

Rotavirus causes severe gastroenteritis in children. Although vaccines are implemented, rotavirus-related diarrhea still claims ~200,000 lives annually worldwide, mainly in low-income settings, pointing to a need for improved vaccine tactics. To meet such a public health need, a P24-VP8* nanoparticle displaying the glycan-binding VP8* domains, the major neutralizing antigens of rotavirus, was generated as a new type of rotavirus vaccine. We reported here our development of a P24-VP8* nanoparticle-based trivalent vaccine. First, we established a method to produce tag-free P24-VP8* nanoparticles presenting the VP8*s of P[8], P[4], and P[6] rotaviruses, respectively, which are the three predominantly circulating rotavirus P types globally. This approach consists of a chemical-based protein precipitation and an ion exchange purification, which may be scaled up for large vaccine production. All three P24-VP8* nanoparticle types self-assembled efficiently with authentic VP8*-glycan receptor binding function. After they were mixed as a trivalent vaccine, we showed that intramuscular immunization of the vaccine elicited high IgG titers specific to the three homologous VP8* types in mice. The resulted mouse sera strongly neutralized replication of all three rotavirus P types in cell culture. Thus, the trivalent P24-VP8* nanoparticles are a promising vaccine candidate for parenteral use against multiple P types of predominant rotaviruses.
Cinnamon Aqueous Extract Attenuates Diclofenac Sodium and Oxytetracycline Mediated Hepato-Renal Toxicity and Modulates Oxidative Stress, Cell Apoptosis, and Inflammation in Male Albino Rats
Authors: Elshopakey Gehad E. , Elazab Sara T.
Published: January 2021

Among commonly consumed anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial drugs are diclofenac sodium (DFS) and oxytetracycline (OTC), especially in developing countries because they are highly effective and cheap. However, the concomitant administration of anti-inflammatory drugs with antibiotics may exaggerate massive toxic effects on many organs. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Cin) is considered one of the most broadly utilized plants with various antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. This study aimed to evaluate the possible protective effects of cinnamon aqueous extract (Cin) against DFS and OTC hepato-renal toxicity. Eight groups (8/group) of adult male albino rats were treated orally for 15 days with physiological saline (control), Cin aqueous extract (300 mg/kg b.w.), OTC (200 mg/kg b.w.), single dose of DFS at the 14th day (100 mg/kg b.w.), DFS + OTC, Cin + DFS, Cin + OTC, and Cin + DFS + OTC. The administration of DFS and/or OTC significantly increased (p < 0.05) the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, urea, creatinine, and uric acid. Serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as hepatic and renal malondialdehyde and nitric oxide metabolites, were also raised following DFS and OTC administration. Meanwhile, the activities of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in liver and kidney were significantly suppressed in DFS, OTC, and DFS + OTC treated rats. Moreover, hepatic and renal tissue sections from these rats exhibited overexpression of caspase-3 and cyclooxygenase-II on immunohistochemical investigation. The administration of Cin aqueous extract ameliorated the aforementioned deteriorations caused by DFS, OTC, and their combination. Conclusively, Cin is a promising protective plant extract capable of attenuating the oxidative damage, apoptosis, and inflammation induced by DFS and OTC either alone or combined, on hepatic and renal tissues.
Health Risk and Geochemical Assessment of Trace Elements in Surface Sediment along the Hooghly (Ganges) River Estuary (India)
Authors: Mondal Priyanka , Lofrano Giusy , Carotenuto Maurizio , Guida Marco , Trifuoggi Marco , Libralato Giovanni , Sarkar Santosh
Published: January 2021

This study investigated sediment spatial and seasonal distribution of trace elements (TEs) (n = 16) and human health effects along the Hooghly River Estuary (India). The index of geo-accumulation (Igeo), enrichment factor (EF), hazard quotient (HQ), modified hazard quotient (mHQ) and toxic risk unit (TRI) were calculated to estimate sediment pollution level, while hazard index (HI) and lifetime cancer risk (LCR) were used to assess TEs enrichment vs. human health. The concentrations (µg/g dry weight) of TEs were: Cd (0.01–1.58), Cr (41.98–105.49), Cu (16.41–51.09), Ni (28.37–63.90), Fe (22075–47919), Mn (423–630), Co (11.43–23.11), Zn (48.82–105.81), V (63.92–138.92), Pb (25.01–43.27) and Ti (0.18–3.50); As (2.92–16.26), B (59.34–98.78), Si (11.52–98.78); Be (1.71–4.81), Ba (95.23–293.72). From Igeo and EF, Cd was the major contaminant, while Ni presented moderate/high contamination (HQ and TRI). Children were more exposed to carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks compared to adults. For non-carcinogenic substances, no significant risk was found to both children and adults (HIs < 1). The LCR for Cr (3.924 × 10−4 for children) and As (1.379 × 10−4 for children) was higher than the threshold limit value (TLV, 10−4 and 10−6) indicating significant carcinogenic risks to be managed.
Succession of Microbial Community in a Small Water Body within the Alluvial Aquifer of a Large River
Authors: Kulaš Antonija , Marković Tamara , Žutinić Petar , Kajan Katarina , Karlović Igor , Orlić Sandi , Keskin Emre , Filipović Vilim , Gligora Udovič Marija
Published: January 2021

Nitrogen is one of the essential elements limiting growth in aquatic environments. Being primarily of anthropogenic origin, it exerts negative impacts on freshwater ecosystems. The present study was carried out at the nitrate-vulnerable zone within the alluvial aquifer of the large lowland Drava River. The main aim was to investigate the ecosystem’s functionality by characterizing the bacterial and phytoplankton diversity of a small inactive gravel pit by using interdisciplinary approaches. The phytoplankton community was investigated via traditional microscopy analyses and environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding, while the bacterial community was investigated by a molecular approach (eDNA). Variations in the algal and bacterial community structure indicated a strong correlation with nitrogen compounds. Summer samples were characterized by a high abundance of bloom-forming Cyanobacteria. Following the cyanobacterial breakdown in the colder winter period, Bacillariophyceae and Actinobacteriota became dominant groups. Changes in microbial composition indicated a strong correlation between N forms and algal and bacterial communities. According to the nitrogen dynamics in the alluvial aquifer, we emphasize the importance of small water bodies as potential buffer zones to anthropogenic nitrogen pressures and sentinels of the disturbances displayed as algal blooms within larger freshwater systems.
Testing Evapotranspiration Estimates Based on MODIS Satellite Data in the Assessment of the Groundwater Recharge of Karst Aquifers in Southern Italy
Authors: Ruggieri Giovanni , Allocca Vincenzo , Borfecchia Flavio , Cusano Delia , Marsiglia Palmira , De Vita Pantaleone
Published: January 2021

In many Italian regions, and particularly in southern Italy, karst aquifers are the main sources of drinking water and play a crucial role in the socio-economic development of the territory. Hence, estimating the groundwater recharge of these aquifers is a fundamental task for the proper management of water resources, while also considering the impacts of climate changes. In the southern Apennines, the assessment of hydrological parameters that is needed for the estimation of groundwater recharge is a challenging issue, especially for the spatial and temporal inhomogeneity of networks of rain and air temperature stations, as well as the variable geomorphological features and land use across mountainous karst areas. In such a framework, the integration of terrestrial and remotely sensed data is a promising approach to limit these uncertainties. In this research, estimations of actual evapotranspiration and groundwater recharge using remotely sensed data gathered by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS) satellite in the period 2000–2014 are shown for karst aquifers of the southern Apennines. To assess the uncertainties affecting conventional methods based on empirical formulas, the values estimated by the MODIS dataset were compared with those calculated by Coutagne, Turc, and Thornthwaite classical empirical formulas, which were based on the recordings of meteorological stations. The annual rainfall time series of 266 rain gauges and 150 air temperature stations, recorded using meteorological networks managed by public agencies in the period 2000–2014, were considered for reconstructing the regional distributed models of actual evapotranspiration (AET) and groundwater recharge. Considering the MODIS AET, the mean annual groundwater recharge for karst aquifers was estimated to be about 448 mm·year−1. In contrast, using the Turc, Coutagne, and Thornthwaite methods, it was estimated as being 494, 533, and 437 mm·year−1, respectively. The obtained results open a new methodological perspective for the assessment of the groundwater recharge of karst aquifers at the regional and mean annual scales, allowing for limiting uncertainties and taking into account a spatial resolution greater than that of the existing meteorological networks. Among the most relevant results obtained via the comparison of classical approaches used for estimating evapotranspiration is the good matching of the actual evapotranspiration estimated using MODIS data with the potential evapotranspiration estimated using the Thornthwaite formula. This result was considered linked to the availability of soil moisture for the evapotranspiration demand due to the relevant precipitation in the area, the general occurrence of soils covering karst aquifers, and the dense vegetation.
Une mutation de l'arbre taillé : La ceinture verte de Francfort
Authors: Lassus Bernard
Published: January 2021

The mutation of pruned tree : the green belt of Frankfurt – In 1989, the Frankfurt City Council of the SPD-Greens majority has decided as part of its policy of reducing the pollution of the city and its environment, the realization of a Green Belt : the GrünGürtel. At the end of 1990, as the Municipal Council was hesitating about its feasibility because of the disparity of land planned, the deputy mayor and project manager Tom Koenigs asked me, as one of the international experts he consulted, to present to them the approach that I had studied on the basis of my proposal «Heterogeneity is more welcoming than Homogeneity » involving dissociation between place and function, and finding new relationships of presence between the elements and on their very constitution.
Le coronavirus dans le Grand Paris : démographie et société
Authors: Burgel Guy , Ghirardi Raymond , Schirrer Maxime , Burgel Pierre-Régis
Published: January 2021

Coronavirus in Greater Paris : demography and society – A detailed statistical and cartographic analysis of the mortality data domiciled on the 150 administrative units of Greater Paris (7 million inhabitants) during the first semesters of 2018, 2019 and 2020, shows a significant excess mortality in 2020, associated with the Covid-19 epidemic. Although it mainly affects the elderly, it seems to be linked, at least spatially, especially in the poorest department of the Metropolis, Seine-Saint-Denis, to difficult economic and social. The finding should lead to both emergency health measures and long-term urban and political treatment.
Expérience d'élu
Authors: Geindre François
Published: January 2021

On trouvera là un vibrant plaidoyer en faveur de la démocratie locale représentative, au nom des valeurs républicaines, et de la sanction de l’élection. Il n’exclut pas le recours à des consultations extra-municipales, ni le regret d’une perte de confiance du citoyen par rapport au personnel politique.
Expériences d'aménageur
Authors: Jullien Jacques
Published: January 2021

Deux exercices de terrain d’un élu local fortement impliqué dans l’élaboration et la conduite des opérations d’aménagement à Argenteuil (Val d’Oise) : l’élaboration du premier Plan d’Occupation des Sols (POS) en 1974 et l’insertion en coeur de ville d’un centre commercial moderne en 1990 : réflexion sur la transformation du tissu urbain, qui est toujours un traumatisme pour une partie de la population et sur l’évolution nécessaire de la concertation ; inquiétude, aussi, face à la tendance à tout attendre des décideurs élus, quitte à mal les élire avec des scores de participation trop faibles.