bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“It Really Put a Change on Me”: Visualizing (Dis)connections within a Photovoice Project in Peterborough/Nogojiwanong, Ontario
Authors: McBee Rosa Lea
Published: August 2023

Photovoice is an arts-based participatory action research method that uses photography as a means for individuals, usually those facing marginalization, to document and foster group dialogue around the stories of their valuable lived experiences. This paper details a photovoice project run under the participatory planning project NeighbourPLAN, in Peterborough, Ontario, with the residents of the Downtown Jackson Creek group. The focus of the photovoice project was working with residents facing various forms of marginalization and barriers to reflect on what (dis)connections look like in their community. The findings conclude that photovoice generated new subjectivities, as residents reported feeling more connected to their community after taking photos. The process was generative in that it reminded residents of other creative outlets that they enjoyed doing and inspired them to engage with creative reflection in other ways. The findings also determined that green spaces, non-judgmental institutions, accessible amenities, safe housing, and well-maintained streets were critical for resident researchers’ feelings of connectedness. I conclude with recommendations from the residents’ feedback on the method and project, along with highlighting the promising potential of arts-based and storytelling methods when conducting research with marginalized groups.
Analyzing Takeaway E-Bikers’ Risky Riding Behaviors and Formation Mechanism at Urban Intersections with the Structural Equation Model
Authors: Ye Xiaofei , Hu Yijie , Liu Lining , Wang Tao , Yan Xingchen , Chen Jun
Published: August 2023

To study the internal formation mechanisms of risky riding behaviors of takeaway e-bikers at urban intersections, we designed a takeaway riding risky behavior questionnaire and obtained 605 valid samples. An exploratory factor analysis was then conducted to extract five scales: individual characteristics, safety attitude, riding confidence, risk perception, and risky riding behavior. On this basis, a structural equation model was constructed to explore the intrinsic causal relationships among the variables that affect the risky riding behaviors of takeaway e-bikers. The results show that the influence of incentive compensation driven by the takeaway platform was the greatest one. Takeaway riders tend to fight against time to improve punctuality and income by red-light running and speeding. They usually need to pay attention to order information and the delivery routes and communicate with customers to pick up meals in real-time, which inevitably lead to the use of cell phone while riding. Road factors such as “no turnaround at the intersection” and “no non-isolation facilities between on-motorized and motorized lane” lead riders to riding against the traffic, riding on the motor lane, and parking outside the stop line. In addition, lax traffic regulations lead to frequent loopholes for takeaway riders. It means that improving the takeaway platform system, strengthening traffic safety education, and adopting mandatory restraint measures are extremely important. The empirical results provide theoretical support for the benign and healthy development of the takeaway industry, which is significant for preventing and reducing risky behaviors of takeaway riders and improving safety at urban intersections.
Study on Effects of Operating Parameters on a Water-Cooled Loop Thermosyphon System under Partial Server Utilization
Authors: Zou Sikai , Yue Chang , Xiao Ting , Ma Xingyi , Wang Yiwei
Published: August 2023

During the operation of a data center, servers are gradually installed in racks, causing most racks to work under a low heating load for a long time and affecting the cooling efficiency of the loop thermosyphon system (LTS). Thus, the effects of operating parameters on the thermal performance should be investigated. In this study, a water-cooled LTS was experimentally investigated under different airflow rates and heating loads. The results show that the additional liquid refrigerant reduced the heat transfer performance and aggravated a drop in cooling capacity when the airflow rate and heating load were decreased. To further reveal the effects of the operating parameters on the thermal performance and cooling efficiency, a steady-state distributed-parameter model was developed and validated based on the experimental data. The results show that the excessive cooling capacity was reduced by decreasing the airflow rate according to the upper limit of the server exhaust air temperature under partial server utilization. The excessive cooling capacity was reduced by 14.5–52.1% under 5–56.5% server utilization. To further reduce the excessive cooling capacity while ensuring thermal security, the water side operating parameters (including the supply chilled water temperature and water flow rate) were adjusted according to the upper limit of the rack’s average outlet air temperature, which reduced the excessive cooling capacity by more than 23.8% under partial server utilization.
Silting Process and Loss of Posidonia oceanica Meadows in the Tyrrhenian Waters of Calabria (Southern Italy)
Authors: Ietto Fabio , Pellicone Gaetano , Cantasano Nicola
Published: August 2023

In the Mediterranean Sea, two critical issues affect marine benthic biocenosis: sedimentation and the increasing trend in marine biodiversity loss. These processes are very marked along the western side of the Calabrian coastline, where siltation is one of the main reasons for the regression of Posidonia beds in the regional coastal waters. This study investigates the relationships between the geomorphological features of the debris source areas, represented by fluvial basins, and the distribution of Posidonia meadows. So, a concise geomorphological study of the Tyrrhenian fluvial basins with an area greater than 200 km2 was carried out, and we correlated the results with the mapping of the meadows in Calabria’s Tyrrhenian waters. Furthermore, to assess the increased level of burial in a Posidonia oceanica meadow and its health state over time, a program of Posidonia monitoring was undertaken between 2000 and 2010 in a test area located in the Marine Regional Park of Isca (Calabria, Southern Italy). The results of this survey highlighted that, at the beginning of the study period, the silting rate of 4–5 cm/year saw the meadow suffer a reduction in its photosynthetic ratio with a mortality rate of 50%. The siltation rate reached 12 cm/year in 2010, and the meadow began to disappear. Therefore, marine pollution via sedimentation represents a serious factor in the regression of Posidonia oceanica meadows and enhances the risk of a gradual loss of marine biodiversity.
Architecture Optimization of a Single-Chamber Air-Cathode MFC by Increasing the Number of Cathode Electrodes
Authors: Kamperidis Theofilos , Tremouli Asimina , Lyberatos Gerasimos
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was the optimization of a single-chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC) architecture, by increasing the number of cathode electrodes. An air cathode single chamber MFC with a modifiable lid and bottom was operated with 4 and 6 Gore-Tex MnO2 cathode electrodes. The anode consisted of graphite granules. It was found that the increase from 4 (total cathodic surface area of 160 cm2) to 6 (total cathodic surface area of 240 cm2) electrodes resulted in an increase of the maximum current and the maximum power output of the cell by approximately 72% and 129%, respectively. Additionally, by increasing the cathodic surface area the internal resistance (Rint) of the unit decreased by approximately 19%. The organic removal from the substrate was not affected by the addition of the new electrodes while it was high across all cases studied (chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal > 89%). The average coulombic efficiency (CE) during the 4-electrode operation was 14.3%, while the corresponding efficiency for 6-electrode operation was 18.5%.
Modeling the Antecedents of Green Consumption Values to Promote the Green Attitude
Authors: Kayani Umar Nawaz , Haque Anamul , Kulsum Umme , Mohona Nishat Taslin , Hasan Fakhrul
Published: August 2023

The use of organic food is of paramount importance in ensuring the safety of our food supply and safeguarding the well-being of people worldwide. This study aims to add to existing knowledge about family perceptions toward organic food consumption, specifically their pro-environmental and pro-social attitudes. The study’s goal is to see if green consumption values can influence customers’ decisions to buy organic food. The theory of consumption value, theory of planned behavior, and protection motivation theory are used to find out what motivates consumers toward organic food purchases. A total sample of 208 families was randomly selected using a self-administrated questionnaire-based survey. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the results. The results suggest that families who demonstrate environmentally conscious behavior and prioritize green consumption values are more likely to choose organic food, in contrast to families who prioritize pro-social behavior. The study enhances the study of sustainable food consumption by providing a fresh perspective on consumers’ attitudes toward organic foods and might provide marketers, decision makers, and future researchers with useful data. This finding signifies the development of the organic food market with the implication of self-identities and green consumption values.
Centralized Decision Making in an Omnichannel Supply Chain with Stochastic Demand
Authors: Song Rui , Wu Zhongming
Published: August 2023

With retailers increasingly adopting the omnichannel retailing model as a core strategy in their daily operations, this study investigates the impact of random demand on the omnichannel supply chain that employs a combination of the online channel, retail channel, and buy online and pick up in store (BOPS) channel, in light of the more stochastic market after the occurrence of COVID-19. To enhance the sustainable profitability of the omnichannel supply chain, this study considers price and lead time dependent demand with both known and unknown distributions, and establishes mathematical models to maximize profit under centralized situations. The study analyzes the variations in demand with lead time in the three channels and examines the effects of price and lead time on profit. Additionally, it investigates the interactions between price and lead time. Through numerical examples, the study illustrates the effects of the mean and variance of random demand on decision variables and examines the influence of potential demand and the sensitivity of lead time. Overall, this analysis provides valuable insights into the impact of demand randomness on the profitability of an omnichannel supply chain, highlighting the importance of considering price and lead time in the decision-making process.
The Hospitality Stress Matrix: Exploring Job Stressors and Their Effects on Psychological Well-Being
Authors: Yoo Dong Yoon
Published: August 2023

This research examines the role of job stressors in the hospitality industry and their impact on front-line employees’ job stress and psychological well-being. Unique stressors identified include job insecurity, interpersonal conflict, and emotional labor, each of which pose a significant influence on job stress. This study utilized Smart PLS 3.0 for analysis. Using a judgmental sampling method, questionnaires were given to service touchpoint department employees with over a year’s experience. The self-reported survey took place from 25 to 30 March 2023. Interestingly, while these factors significantly contribute to job stress, their direct effect on psychological well-being was found to be statistically insignificant. Instead, job stress emerged as a significant mediator between these job stressors and psychological well-being. Consequently, the research uncovers the need for hospitality organizations to devise effective stress management and mitigation strategies, rather than solely focusing on reducing the presence of job stressors. Practical recommendations for industry management, encompassing strategies for reducing job insecurity, managing interpersonal conflicts and emotional labor, and the implementation of stress management programs, are provided. These insights have potential implications not only for enhancing employee well-being but also for fostering a more resilient and thriving hospitality sector.
Optimizing Process-Improvement Efforts for Supply Chain Operations under Disruptions: New Structural Results
Authors: Berk Emre , Ayas Onurcan , Ülkü M. Ali
Published: August 2023

Rampant disruptions have probed the fragility of supply chains: Renewed perspectives and comprehensive operational models are needed to enhance resiliency and sustainability in business. This paper proposes a new inventory management model that explicitly integrates process improvement efforts to improve supply chain sustainability through the better use of capital (materials, assets, and technology) and labor (workforce and know-how). Under a desired service-level constraint, we study reducing setup (fixed) costs when they are expressed in terms of economic production functions of two (input) decision variables: the level of capital (e.g., process change, and technology investments) and the level of labor required. This research is motivated by lean manufacturing practices, which rely on shaping the operating environment and operating optimally within that business environment. Based on mathematical modeling and analysis, we provide closed-form optimality expressions and structural results that lend themselves to decision insights. In particular, we provide, along with illustrative numerical examples, results on the sensitivity of setup-reduction efforts to demand rates, variability, and explicit expressions for determining the required labor and capital resources. A generalization of the model for carbon emissions is also presented.
Equivalent Hydraulic Conductivity of Heterogeneous Aquifers Estimated by Multi-Frequency Oscillatory Pumping
Authors: Rabinovich Avinoam , Guy David
Published: August 2023

Aquifers are a vital part of our water cycle and modeling groundwater flow is paramount for a number of environmental applications. Modeling requires the estimation of aquifer properties, which is mostly achieved by field pumping tests. Oscillatory pumping tests involve repeated pumping and injection of aquifer water, which generates a periodic head signal. We investigate the estimation of equivalent hydraulic conductivity (Keq) in an oscillatory pumping test with a multi-frequency excitation. Synthetic head data are generated from numerical simulations of pumping in heterogeneous aquifers and an inverse method is applied to estimate Keq. The method involves a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis for obtaining the spatial distribution of head amplitude and then matching the amplitudes using a semi-analytical solution of a homogeneous aquifer with conductivity Keq. We investigate the dependence of Keq on pumping frequency in view of the previous literature, which has found increasing values for higher frequencies. We did not find this increase in Keq with frequency and minor variations which were observed appear to be a result of numerical error. The result implies that oscillatory pumping field tests can be used for Keq estimation without any corrections for frequency dependence.
Altitude Correction of GCM-Simulated Precipitation Isotopes in a Valley Topography of the Chinese Loess Plateau
Authors: Xiao Yanqiong , Yang Gahong , Yoshimura Kei , Qu Deye , Chen Fenli , Argiriou Athanassios A. , Wang Shengjie
Published: August 2023

Altitude is one of the important factors influencing the spatial distribution of precipitation, especially in a complex topography, and simulations of isotope-enabled climate models can be improved by altitude correlation. Here we compiled isotope observations at 12 sites in Lanzhou, and examined the relationship between isotope error and altitude in this valley in the Chinese Loess Plateau using isoGSM2 isotope simulations. Before altitude correction, the performance using the nearest four grid boxes to the target site is better than that using the nearest box; the root mean square error in δ18O using the nearest four grid boxes averagely decreases by 0.37‰ compared to that using the nearest grid boxes, and correlation coefficient increases by 0.05. The influences of altitude on precipitation isotope errors were examined, and the linear relationship between altitude error and isotope simulations was calculated. The strongest altitude isotopic gradient between δ18O mean bias error and altitude error is in summer, and the weakest is in winter. The regression relationships were used to correct the simulated isotope composition. After altitude correction, the root mean square error decreases by 1.21‰ or 0.86‰ using the nearest one or four grid boxes, respectively, and the correlation coefficient increases by 0.13 or 0.08, respectively. The differences between methods using the nearest one or four grids are also weakened, and the differences are 0.02‰ for root mean square error and −0.01 for the correlation coefficient. The altitude correction of precipitation isotopes should be considered to downscale the simulations of climate models, especially in complex topography.
Mechanical Properties of Fiber-Reinforced High-Volume Fly-Ash-Based Cement Composite—A Long-Term Study
Authors: Kudva Laxman P. , Nayak Gopinatha , Shetty Kiran K. , Sugandhini H. K.
Published: August 2023

This article presents the long-term mechanical properties of a novel cement composite, no-aggregate concrete (NAC), containing 80% of low-calcium (class F) fly ash (F-FA) and 20% ordinary Portland cement (OPC) without aggregates. The study investigates the effect of adding polypropylene fibers (PPFs) in varying volume fractions to NAC by conducting compressive, splitting tensile, flexural, bond strength, and sorptivity tests, emphasizing the morphological features over a curing duration of up to three years. The results indicate that adding PPF has an insignificant effect on compressive strength. However, flexural, splitting tensile, and bond strength improve with an increasing volume fraction of PPF. The addition of PPF achieves a ductile failure which is desirable. The initial and final water absorption rate (sorptivity) reduces with the addition of PPF. Further, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images reveal dense precipitation of C-S-H, while energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) quantifies the hydration products. The ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) affirms the composite’s excellent quality.
Supply and Demand Changes, Pig Epidemic Shocks, and Pork Price Fluctuations: An Empirical Study Based on an SVAR Model
Authors: Pang Jie , Yin Juan , Lu Guangchang , Li Shimei
Published: August 2023

The price of pork, as an important livelihood indicator in China, and its price fluctuations have a significant impact on the lives of residents and social stability. Therefore, it is vital to study the main factors that affect pork price fluctuations and implement targeted regulatory measures in a timely manner. In the context of the increasing number of pig epidemics and increased pork imports, it is necessary to consider the impact of pig epidemics and imported pork on pork price fluctuations, which can more accurately reflect actual pork price fluctuations in China. In this paper, a structural vector autoregressive (SVAR) model was applied to analyze the main factors affecting pork price fluctuations from the aspects of the pork price, supply and demand changes, and pig epidemic shocks. The results indicated that the impact of the pork price on pork price fluctuations was the largest, with the largest contribution rate, whereas the current month’s pork price had a 29.60% impact on the pork price 18 months later. The supply factor that affected the pork price was the pig herd, with the current month’s pig herd having a 34.85% impact on the pork price after 18 months. Imported pork had a relatively small structural impact on pork price fluctuations, with a positive impact in the first four months and a subsequent negative impact. However, pig epidemics mainly caused pork price fluctuations by changing the market relation between demand and supply, with the current month’s epidemic depth index having a 9.78% impact on the pork price 18 months later. Based on the results of this study, it is recommended to focus on the monitoring and early warning of the pork price by analyzing big data, promoting large-scale farming, and strengthening the implementation of early prevention and control measures during disease outbreaks to stabilize pig herd and achieve a stable pork market supply and price.
Assessment of Debris Flow Impact Based on Experimental Analysis along a Deposition Area
Authors: A.Wahab Muhammad Khairi , Mohd Arif Zainol Mohd Remy Rozainy , Ikhsan Jazaul , Zawawi Mohd Hafiz , Abas Mohamad Aizat , Mohamed Noor Norazian , Abdul Razak Norizham , Sholichin Moh
Published: August 2023

Debris flow is a devastating phenomenon that happens in hilly and mountainous regions and has a serious impact on affected areas. It causes casualties and serious damage to the environment and society. Therefore, a susceptible assessment is necessary to prevent, mitigate, and raise awareness of the impact of debris flows. This paper focuses on evaluating the deposition area along the deposition board. The methodology involved an experiment on a physical model by demonstrating the debris flow based on the steepness of the flume slope at 15°, 20°, and 25° angles. The limestone particles with a total volume of 2.5 × 106 mm3 acted as debris and were released with water from the tank to the deposition board with an area of 10 × 105 mm2. The volume, area, and length of particle distribution carried from the flume to the deposition board were then determined. Based on the experimental results, the deposition board is covered with particles of about 696.19 × 103 mm3, 748.29 × 103 mm3, and 505.19 × 103 mm3 volume for each 15°, 20°, and 25° angle, respectively. In actual situations, debris flow is capable of causing significant risk to the affected area. This study can be deemed useful for a risk assessment approach, to help develop guidelines, and to mitigate the regions where debris flows are most probable to occur.
Life Cycle Carbon Dioxide Emissions and Sensitivity Analysis of Elevators
Authors: Dong Yanfang , Liang Caihang , Guo Lili , Cai Xiaoliang , Hu Weipeng
Published: August 2023

With the intensification of climate warming, the carbon dioxide emissions from high-energy-consuming elevators have attracted increasing societal attention. The assessment of carbon dioxide emissions, particularly the boundaries and strategies of carbon dioxide emissions accounting, lacks systematic research. However, an efficient evaluation of elevator carbon dioxide emissions is beneficial for improving elevator energy utilization. A carbon dioxide emissions accounting method and inventory analysis of a life cycle for an elevator is proposed to measure the carbon dioxide emissions from production to disposal. In addition, a new assessment indicator, namely, annual carbon dioxide emissions per ton·kilometer, is proposed to evaluate the carbon dioxide emissions for different types of elevators. The lifetime carbon dioxide emissions of the elevator and its sensitivity to influencing factors were assessed. The results indicate that the carbon dioxide emissions in the four stages of manufacturing, installation, operation and maintenance, and demolition and scraping contributed 41.31%, 0.92%, 57.32% and 0.44%, respectively. The annual carbon dioxide emissions of the elevator were about 27.18 kgCO2/t·km. The four primary factors affecting CO2 emissions were electricity consumption, printed circuit boards, low-alloy steel and chrome steel in descending order. Their probability distribution characteristics all obeyed triangular or uniform distributions. The median of their 95% confidence intervals was about 73,800. Their coefficients of variation were all below 2.1%. The effective strategies for energy conservation and carbon reduction were suggested by the life cycle impactor assessment. They also provide guidance for sustainable elevators.
Can Digital Rural Construction Improve China’s Agricultural Surface Pollution? Autoregressive Modeling Based on Spatial Quartiles
Authors: Hu Hanqing , Yang Xiaofan , Li Jianling , Shen Jianbo , Dai Jianhua , Jin Yuanyuan
Published: August 2023

The problem of agricultural surface pollution is becoming increasingly prominent, directly impeding the realization of the goals of “industrial prosperity and ecological livability” in the strategy of rural revitalization. To thoroughly analyze the impact of Digital Rural Construction on agricultural surface pollution and to effectively strengthen the prevention and control measures, the Moran index was used to assess the influence of agricultural surface pollution in 31 provinces and cities across China. The Moran index was employed to conduct global and local spatial autocorrelation analysis of agricultural surface source pollution, and a panel quantile autoregressive model was constructed to explore the effects of Digital Rural Construction on such pollution. The results show the following: (1) agricultural surface pollution in each province and city exhibits spatial spillover effects that are growing stronger; (2) the spatial impact of agricultural surface pollution on neighboring provinces and cities follows an inverted U-shaped pattern at different levels of pollution; (3) the relationship between the degree of agricultural surface pollution and the impact of Digital Rural Construction on it also follows an inverted U-shaped pattern, wherein improvements are observed as the pollution levels deepen. When the level of agricultural surface pollution is located in the quartile point 0.1, the improvement effect of Digital Rural Construction on agricultural surface pollution is small (0.0484), as the quartile point increases, the improvement effect is gradually increased, and it reaches the maximum value at the quartile point 0.5 (0.523), and the coefficient of agricultural surface pollution decreases to the minimum value at the quartile point 0.9 (0.423).
Integrating Sustainability Metrics into Project and Portfolio Performance Assessment in Agile Software Development: A Data-Driven Scoring Model
Authors: Fagarasan Cristian , Cristea Ciprian , Cristea Maria , Popa Ovidiu , Pisla Adrian
Published: August 2023

In today’s rapidly evolving information technology sectors, agile methodologies have been employed by software development organizations to facilitate the large-scale, efficient, and swift development of digital products. Notably, it is a widely accepted principle that an increase in project delivery predictability results from more effective portfolio management. Despite the abundant resources within software engineering that address project management and agile development performance, the measurement of portfolio delivery performance integrating sustainability principles is under-researched. This paper aims to underline a solution to bridge this gap by proposing a data-driven scoring model explicitly designed for software firms to integrate sustainability metrics into their project and portfolio performance assessment. The model is primarily aimed at monitoring and enhancing delivery performance while also reinforcing the sustainability of the software development lifecycle. A thorough literature review was conducted to discern gaps in existing practices, followed by development of a scoring model melded with delivery and sustainability metrics seamlessly. Validated through a case study, the findings reveal that the model influences the performance and sustainability dynamics within software development entities. The insights gained from this study underscore the pivotal role of a harmonized delivery and sustainability metrics system in enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of software development undertakings.
A Model-Based Approach for the Methodical Development and Configuration of Modular Product Families
Authors: Hanna Michael , Wöller Lea-Nadine , Dambietz Florian M. , Krause Dieter
Published: August 2023

This paper shows how a methodical development and configuration of modular product family concepts and their effects on economic targets can be implemented in SysML. For this purpose, different sources of inconsistency between different methodical tools are highlighted and the need for research is shown. As a solution approach, a methodical framework is presented, which can be used to implement product development methods for the developing of modular product family modeling by means of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) in the modeling language SysML. By applying the framework, it is shown on the one hand how a product family of vacuum cleaner robots as a simple example can be modularized in a methodical, model-based manner. On the other hand, a configuration system and an impact model of modular product families are connected with the system model and applied to a product family of laser systems as an industrial use case. This made it clear that the framework can be used to model various methodical topics of product family modeling in a consistent manner, to enable higher-level analyses with the use of MBSE tools. This can reduce errors, decrease effort and increase traceability across different methodical tools.
Deep Learning-Based Versus Iterative Image Reconstruction for Unenhanced Brain CT: A Quantitative Comparison of Image Quality
Authors: Cozzi Andrea , Cè Maurizio , De Padova Giuseppe , Libri Dario , Caldarelli Nazarena , Zucconi Fabio , Oliva Giancarlo , Cellina Michaela
Published: August 2023

This exploratory retrospective study aims to quantitatively compare the image quality of unenhanced brain computed tomography (CT) reconstructed with an iterative (AIDR-3D) and a deep learning-based (AiCE) reconstruction algorithm. After a preliminary phantom study, AIDR-3D and AiCE reconstructions (0.5 mm thickness) of 100 consecutive brain CTs acquired in the emergency setting on the same 320-detector row CT scanner were retrospectively analyzed, calculating image noise reduction attributable to the AiCE algorithm, artifact indexes in the posterior cranial fossa, and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) at the cortical and thalamic levels. In the phantom study, the spatial resolution of the two datasets proved to be comparable; conversely, AIDR-3D reconstructions showed a broader noise pattern. In the human study, median image noise was lower with AiCE compared to AIDR-3D (4.7 vs. 5.3, p < 0.001, median 19.6% noise reduction), whereas AIDR-3D yielded a lower artifact index than AiCE (7.5 vs. 8.4, p < 0.001). AiCE also showed higher median CNRs at the cortical (2.5 vs. 1.8, p < 0.001) and thalamic levels (2.8 vs. 1.7, p < 0.001). These results highlight how image quality improvements granted by deep learning-based (AiCE) and iterative (AIDR-3D) image reconstruction algorithms vary according to different brain areas.
Single OnabotulinumtoxinA Session Add-On to Carbamazepine or Oxcarbazepine in Treatment-Refractory Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Case Series with 24-Week Follow Up
Authors: Xiromerisiou Georgia , Lampropoulos Ioannis C. , Dermitzakis Emmanouil V. , Vikelis Michail , Marogianni Chrysoula , Mysiris Dimitris , Argyriou Andreas A.
Published: August 2023

We sought to assess the efficacy of combining onabotulinumtoxinA (BoNTA) as add-on therapy to carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine in treatment-refractory patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TGN) who failed to respond (less than 30% response rate) to adequate monotherapy. We conducted a retrospective study on 15 patients with a definite diagnosis of TGN, according to the established criteria, and underwent BoNTA as part of their treatment plan. A single BoNTA session was administered subcutaneously, according to patients’ perceived zone of pain, at different dosages ranging from 30 to 200 units (mean ± standard deviation: 87.3 ± 39.2). All patients (15/15; 100%) reported large reductions in the severity of their TGN-related neuropathic pain. The mean pain score on the VAS scale significantly decreased from 9.3 ± 1.1 to 3.7 ± 1.2 at 2 weeks after injecting BoNTA (p < 0.001) and remained stable at 4 and 24 weeks post-injection. Regarding the impact of BoNTA on patients’ health-related quality of life, there were significant improvements in both the physical and mental health domains (p < 0.05) of SF-36 tool. BoNTA may be a safe and effective treatment option for patients with refractory TGN when added on to carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine. The use of a single BoNTA session for TGN treatment may be an alternative to surgical interventions and as add-on treatment to oral medications, providing patients with a minimally invasive, effective, safe and well-tolerated option.
How Hypertension Rates and HIV Treatment Outcomes Compare between Older Females and Males Enrolled in an HIV Treatment Program in Southern Nigeria: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Akpan Uduak , Bateganya Moses , Toyo Otoyo , Nwanja Esther , Nwangeneh Chiagozie , Ogheneuzuazo Onwah , Idemudia Augustine , James Ezekiel , Ogundehin Dolapo , Adegboye Adeoye , Onyedinachi Okezie , Eyo Andy
Published: August 2023

Studies show that treatment outcomes may vary among persons living with HIV. To fast-track the attainment of epidemic control across gender and age groups, the Accelerating Control of the HIV Epidemic (ACE-5) Project implemented in Akwa Ibom and Cross Rivers States, Nigeria, examined the hypertension rates and treatment outcomes of older adults living with HIV. The demographic and treatment characteristics of males and females ≥ 50 years living with HIV, who initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) as of September 2021, were abstracted from medical records across 154 health facilities and community sites in Akwa Ibom and Cross River states, Nigeria. We compared these characteristics by sex using the chi-square test. The log-rank test was used to compare differences in their retention (i.e., being on treatment) and viral suppression (VS) rates [<1000 copies/Ml] in September 2022. Of the 16,420 older adults living with HIV (10.8% of the treatment cohort) at the time of the study, 53.8%, and 99.5% were on a first-line ART regimen. Among the 3585 with baseline CD4 documented (21.8% of the cohort), the median [IQR] CD4 count was 496 [286–699] cells/mm3, with more males having lower baseline CD4 than females [13.4% of males vs. 10.2% of females, p-value = 0.004]. In total, 59.9% received treatment at out-of-facility locations, with more males receiving treatment in this setting than females [65.7% vs. 54.8% p-value < 0.001]. Of those in whom blood pressure was assessed (65.9% of the treatment cohort), 9.6% were hypertensive, with males being less likely to be hypertensive [8.0% vs. 11.1% p-value < 0.001] than females. Overall, retention as of September 2022 was 96.4%, while VS was 99.0% and did not differ significantly by sex [retention: p = 0.901; VS: p = 0.056]. VS was slightly but not significantly higher among females than males (98.8% versus 99.2%; Aor = 0.79, 95%CI = 0.58–1.10, p = 0.17). Although older males and females living with HIV had similar treatment outcomes, hypertension screening was suboptimal and could impact long-term morbidity and mortality. Our study emphasizes the need to integrate noncommunicable disease screening and the management of hypertension in the care of older persons living with HIV.
Influence of Alfvén Ion–Cyclotron Waves on the Anisotropy of Solar Wind Turbulence at Ion Kinetic Scales
Authors: Wang Xin , Huang Linzhi , Wang Yuxin , Yuan Haochen
Published: August 2023

The power spectra of the magnetic field at ion kinetic scales have been found to be significantly influenced by Alfvén ion–cyclotron (AIC) waves. Here, we study whether and how this influence of the AIC wave depends on the θVB angle (the angle between the local mean magnetic field and the solar wind velocity direction). The wavelet technique is applied to the high time-resolution (11 vectors per second) magnetic field data from WIND spacecraft measurements in a fast solar wind stream associated with an outward magnetic sector. It is found that around the ion kinetic scales (0.52 Hz–1.21 Hz), the power spectrum in the parallel angular bin 0∘<θVB<10∘ has a slope of −4.80±0.15. When we remove the left-handed polarized AIC waves (with normalized reduced magnetic helicity smaller than −0.9) from the fluctuations, the spectral index becomes −4.09±0.11. However, the power spectrum in the perpendicular angular bin 80∘<θVB<90∘ changes very little during the wave-removal process, and its slope remains −3.22±0.07. These results indicate that the influence of the AIC waves on the magnetic spectral index at the ion kinetic scales is indeed dependent on θVB, which is due to the anisotropic distribution of the waves. Apparently, when the waves are removed from the original data, the spectral anisotropy weakens. This result may help us to better understand the physical nature of the spectral anisotropy around the ion scales.
Feline Infectious Peritonitis: European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases Guidelines
Authors: Tasker Séverine , Addie Diane D. , Egberink Herman , Hofmann-Lehmann Regina , Hosie Margaret J. , Truyen Uwe , Belák Sándor , Boucraut-Baralon Corine , Frymus Tadeusz , Lloret Albert , Marsilio Fulvio , Pennisi Maria Grazia , Thiry Etienne , Möstl Karin , Hartmann Katrin
Published: August 2023

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is a ubiquitous RNA virus of cats, which is transmitted faeco-orally. In these guidelines, the European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases (ABCD) presents a comprehensive review of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). FCoV is primarily an enteric virus and most infections do not cause clinical signs, or result in only enteritis, but a small proportion of FCoV-infected cats develop FIP. The pathology in FIP comprises a perivascular phlebitis that can affect any organ. Cats under two years old are most frequently affected by FIP. Most cats present with fever, anorexia, and weight loss; many have effusions, and some have ocular and/or neurological signs. Making a diagnosis is complex and ABCD FIP Diagnostic Approach Tools are available to aid veterinarians. Sampling an effusion, when present, for cytology, biochemistry, and FCoV RNA or FCoV antigen detection is very useful diagnostically. In the absence of an effusion, fine-needle aspirates from affected organs for cytology and FCoV RNA or FCoV antigen detection are helpful. Definitive diagnosis usually requires histopathology with FCoV antigen detection. Antiviral treatments now enable recovery in many cases from this previously fatal disease; nucleoside analogues (e.g., oral GS-441524) are very effective, although they are not available in all countries.
Viruses in Laboratory Drosophila and Their Impact on Host Gene Expression
Authors: Kuyateh Oumie , Obbard Darren J.
Published: August 2023

Drosophila melanogaster has one of the best characterized antiviral immune responses among invertebrates. However, relatively few easily transmitted natural virus isolates are available, and so many Drosophila experiments have been performed using artificial infection routes and artificial host–virus combinations. These may not reflect natural infections, especially for subtle phenotypes such as gene expression. Here, to explore the laboratory virus community and to better understand how natural virus infections induce changes in gene expression, we have analysed seven publicly available D. melanogaster transcriptomic sequencing datasets that were originally sequenced for projects unrelated to virus infection. We have found ten known viruses—including five that have not been experimentally isolated—but no previously unknown viruses. Our analysis of host gene expression revealed that numerous genes were differentially expressed in flies that were naturally infected with a virus. For example, flies infected with nora virus showed patterns of gene expression consistent with intestinal vacuolization and possible host repair via the upd3 JAK/STAT pathway. We also found marked sex differences in virus-induced differential gene expression. Our results show that natural virus infection in laboratory Drosophila does indeed induce detectable changes in gene expression, suggesting that this may form an important background condition for experimental studies in the laboratory.
Comprehensive Characterization of Viral Diversity of Female Mosquitoes in Madagascar
Authors: Bennouna Amal , Tantely Michael Luciano , Raharinosy Vololoniaina , Andriamandimby Soa Fy , Bigot Thomas , Chrétien Delphine , Jacquemet Elise , Volant Stevenn , Temmam Sarah , Dussart Philippe , Lacoste Vincent , Girod Romain , Eloit Marc
Published: August 2023

The diversity and circulation of arboviruses are not much studied in Madagascar. The fact is that arboviral emergences are rarely detected. The existing surveillance system primarily relies on serological detection and records only a few human infections annually. The city of Mahajanga, however, experienced a confirmed dengue fever epidemic in 2020 and 2021. This study aimed to characterize and analyze the virome of mosquitoes collected in Mahajanga, near patients with dengue-like syndromes to detect known and unknown viruses as well as investigate the factors contributing to the relative low circulation of arboviruses in the area. A total of 4280 mosquitoes representing at least 12 species from the Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex genera were collected during the dry and the rainy seasons from three sites, following an urbanization gradient. The virome analysis of 2192 female mosquitoes identified a diverse range of viral families and genera and revealed different patterns that are signatures of the influence of the mosquito genus or the season of collection on the composition and abundance of the virome. Despite the absence of known human or veterinary arboviruses, the identification and characterization of viral families, genera, and species in the mosquito virome contribute to our understanding of viral ecology and diversity within mosquito populations in Madagascar. This study serves as a foundation for ongoing surveillance efforts and provides a basis for the development of preventive strategies against various mosquito-borne viral diseases, including known arboviruses.
Carambolaside W Inhibited H1N1 Influenza Virus-Induced Oxidative Stress through STAT-3/BCL-XL Signaling Pathway
Authors: Su Jingyao , Lai Jia , Li Jiali , Liu Xia , Chen Haitian , Li Chuqing , Zhu Bing , Jia Xuchao , Li Yinghua
Published: August 2023

The H1N1 influenza virus is highly infectious and pathogenic, and in recent years, it has often presented seasonal mass outbreaks of infection. People infected with H1N1 will develop a high fever and other respiratory infection symptoms. If not treated in time, complications such as pneumonia may occur. In this study, we focused on developing drugs that can effectively fight against with H1N1 virus. A flavonoid glycoside was extracted from the carambola, then characterized by HR-ESI-MS with the molecular formula C47H58O2, and named carambolaside W. The flavonoid glycosides were found to have good anti-H1N1 influenza virus effects. In this study, we verified that carambolaside W has low toxicity and can effectively inhibit influenza virus replication in vitro. H1N1 virus infection induces intracellular oxidative stress damage to accelerate disease progression. The results showed that carambolaside W effectively inhibited the oxidative stress caused by H1N1 infection. The Western blot assay also revealed that carambolaside W alters the expression of apoptosis-related proteins in vitro and exerts a good anti-H1N1 influenza virus effect. In summary, carambolaside W is a low-toxicity natural flavonoid that can effectively treat the H1N1 influenza virus as a potential anti-H1N1 virus agent.
Lichen or Associated Micro-Organism Compounds Are Active against Human Coronaviruses
Authors: Desmarets Lowiese , Millot Marion , Chollet-Krugler Marylène , Boustie Joël , Camuzet Charline , François Nathan , Rouillé Yves , Belouzard Sandrine , Tomasi Sophie , Mambu Lengo , Séron Karin
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: Since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts have been made to identify antiviral compounds against human coronaviruses. With the aim of increasing the diversity of molecule scaffolds, 42 natural compounds, of which 28 were isolated from lichens and 14 from their associated microorganisms (bacteria and fungi), were screened against human coronavirus HCoV-229E. (2) Methods: Antiviral assays were performed using HCoV-229E in Huh-7 and Huh-7/TMPRSS2 cells and SARS-CoV-2 in a Vero-81-derived clone with a GFP reporter probe. (3) Results: Four lichen compounds, including chloroatranol, emodin, perlatolic acid and vulpinic acid, displayed high activities against HCoV-229E (IC50 = 68.86, 59.25, 16.42 and 14.58 μM, respectively) and no toxicity at active concentrations. Kinetics studies were performed to determine their mode of action. The four compounds were active when added at the replication step. Due to their significant activity, they were further tested on SARS-CoV-2. Perlatolic acid was shown to be active against SARS-CoV-2. (4) Conclusions: Taken together, these results show that lichens are a source of interesting antiviral agents against human coronaviruses. Moreover, perlatolic acid might be further studied for its pan-coronavirus antiviral activity.
Inhibition of Trichinella spiralis Membrane-Associated Progesterone Receptor (MAPR) Results in a Reduction in Worm Burden
Authors: Aleem Muhammad Tahir , Wen Zhaohai , Yu Zhengqing , Chen Cheng , Lu Mingmin , Xu Lixin , Song Xiaokai , Li Xiangrui , Yan Ruofeng
Published: August 2023

Trichinella spiralis (T. spiralis), a nematode parasite, is the major cause of Trichinellosis, a zoonotic disease. A key role of MAPR in the reproductive system is to maintain pregnancy. Previous studies found that antihormone drug design and vaccine therapy of recombinant protein (rTs-MAPRC2) control T. spiralis infection. The current study investigates the inhibitory effects of different ratios of antibodies against Ts-MAPRC2 on the development of muscle larvae (ML) and newborn larvae (NBL). First, we performed indirect immunofluorescence assays and examined the effects of rTs-MAPRC2-Ab on ML and NBL in vitro as well as in vivo. Afterward, siRNA-Ts-MAPRC2 was transfected into T. spiralis muscle larvae. Following that, Ts-MAPRC2 protein was detected by Western Blotting, and mRNA levels were determined by qPCR. We also assessed whether siRNA-treated NBLs were infective by analyzing muscle larvae burden (MLs). Our results showed that rTs-MAPRC2-Ab greatly inhibited the activity of the Ts-MAPRC2 in ML and NBL of T. spiralis and rTs-MAPRC2-Ab reduced larval infectivity and survival in the host in a dose-dependent manner (1:50, 1:200, 1:800 dilutions). Furthermore, siRNA-Ts-MAPRC2 effectively silenced the Ts-MAPRC2 gene in muscle larvae (ML) in vitro, as well as in newborn larvae (NBL) of T. spiralis in vivo. In addition, siRNA-Ts-MAPRC2 (siRNA180, siRNA419, siRNA559) reduced host larval survival and infectivity significantly. This study, therefore, suggests that Ts-MAPRC2 might be a novel molecular target useful in the development of vaccines against T. spiralis infection.