bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Recursive Locally-Adaptive Filtration of 3D Tensor Images
Authors: Kountchev Roumen , Mironov Rumen , Kountcheva Roumiana
Published: July 2023

This work is focused on the computational complexity (CC) reduction of the locally-adaptive processing of 3D tensor images, based on recursive approaches. As a basis, a local averaging operation is used, implemented as a sliding mean 3D filter (SM3DF) with a central symmetric 3D kernel. Symmetry plays a very important role in constructing the working window. The presented theoretical approach could be adopted in various algorithms for locally-adaptive processing, such as additive noise reduction, sharpness enhancement, texture segmentation, etc. The basic characteristics of the recursive SM3DF are analyzed, together with the main features of the adaptive algorithms for filtration of Gaussian noises and unsharp masking where the filter is aimed at. In the paper, the ability of SM3DF implementation through recursive sliding mean 1D filters, sequentially bonded together, is also introduced. The computational complexity of the algorithms is evaluated for the recursive and non-recursive mode. The recursive SM3DF also suits the 3D convolutional neural networks which comprise sliding locally-adaptive 3D filtration in their layers. As a result of the lower CC, a promising opportunity is opened for higher efficiency of the 3D image processing through tensor neural networks.
Dynamics in a Competitive Nicholson’s Blowflies Model with Continuous Time Delays
Authors: Wu Zhiqiao , Muhammadhaji Ahmadjan
Published: July 2023

In this study, we examine a competitive Nicholson blowflies model with time-varying coefficients and continuous time delays. In the case of coincidence degree theory, constructing appropriate Lyapunov functionals and using several inequalities, several conditions on the extinction, periodic solution, permanence, and global attractiveness of the system are derived. Finally, three examples with numerical simulations are presented to validate the practicability and feasibility of the obtained theoretical results.
Linear Layer Architecture Based on Cyclic Shift and XOR
Authors: Gorlov Lev , Iavich Maksim , Bocu Razvan
Published: July 2023

One of the nodes of a block symmetric encryption algorithm is represented by a linear layer, the purpose of which is to distribute the mutual influence of bits within the processed data block. Several methods exist for constructing a linear layer, the most common of which are matrix multiplication operations and the permutation of bits. Both approaches have high computational complexity and are not equally effective for both hardware and software implementations. This paper presents an approach for constructing linear functions for block symmetric encryption algorithms utilizing cyclic shift, and bitwise addition operations are formulated. We provide a preliminary assessment of certain properties of such functions, including the branch number. This linear operation can accommodate binary words of any length, allowing for the design of an optimal linear layer for software or hardware architectures with any word size. Furthermore, the developed architecture allows for balancing the laboriousness of linear operations and related branch numbers. The proposed novel linear layer architecture facilitates the creation of fast lightweight encryption algorithms as well as robust classical algorithms with a high level of cryptographic strength. For efficient implementation on software and hardware platforms, no additional optimizations are required, as the proposed linear layer allows for achieving high performance in both cases.
Perturbative Asymptotic Safety and Its Phenomenological Applications
Authors: Bednyakov Alexander , Mukhaeva Alfiia
Published: July 2023

Asymptotic safety is a remarkable example when fruitful ideas borrowed from statistical physics proliferate to high-energy physics. The concept of asymptotic safety is tightly connected to fixed points (FPs) of the renormalization-group (RG) flow, and generalize well-known asymptotic freedom to a scale-invariant ultraviolet completion with non-vanishing interactions. In this review, we discuss the key ideas behind asymptotic safety, a mechanism for achieving it, and the conditions it imposes on general gauge–Yukawa field theories. We also pay special attention to possible phenomenological applications and provide an overview of standard model (SM) extensions potentially exhibiting asymptotic safety.
Symmetric Color Image Encryption Using a Novel Cross–Plane Joint Scrambling–Diffusion Method
Authors: Ge Bin , Shen Zhihua , Wang Xiao
Published: July 2023

Motivated by the pursuit of both encryption efficiency and security, this paper presents a symmetric color image encryption algorithm using a novel cross–plane joint scrambling–diffusion method. To provide high–strength security, the color planes are firstly spliced horizontally and then vertically to be adequately encrypted by the joint scrambling–diffusion method. Therefore, minor changes in any pixel can cross every color plane that significantly influences the final cipher image. To achieve fast encryption speed, all employed chaotic systems have simple structures but robust properties to rapidly generate high–quality pseudorandom sequences. Additionally, the joint scrambling–diffusion method is vectorized to handle pixels in parallel for satisfactory execution efficiency. Security tests demonstrate the outstanding security performance of the proposed algorithm, with correlation coefficients and entropies of cipher images being close to 0 and greater than 7.99, respectively, and results of NPCR and UACI tests being similar to ideal cipher images, which can resist statistical, differential, exhaustive, and even chosen ciphertext/plaintext attacks. Moreover, because of the O(4W + 4H) time complexity of the novel scrambling–diffusion method, even a color image with a size of 1024 × 1024 only costs 0.26 s to be encrypted. Hence, the proposed algorithm can satisfy the efficiency and security requirements of color image encryption.
Generalized Common Best Proximity Point Results in Fuzzy Metric Spaces with Application
Authors: Ishtiaq Umar , Jahangeer Fahad , Kattan Doha A. , Argyros Ioannis K.
Published: July 2023

The symmetry of fuzzy metric spaces has benefits for flexibility, ambiguity tolerance, resilience, compatibility, and applicability. They provide a more comprehensive description of similarity and offer a solid framework for working with ambiguous and imprecise data. We give fuzzy versions of some celebrated iterative mappings. Further, we provide different concrete conditions on the real valued functions J,S:(0,1]→R for the existence of the best proximity point of generalized fuzzy (J,S)-iterative mappings in the setting of fuzzy metric space. Furthermore, we utilize fuzzy versions of J,S-proximal contraction, J,S-interpolative Reich–Rus–Ciric-type proximal contractions, J,S-Kannan type proximal contraction and J,S-interpolative Hardy Roger’s type proximal contraction to examine the common best proximity points in fuzzy metric space. Also, we establish several non-trivial examples and an application to support our results.
Causes of Death during the Intravenous Infusion of Dimethylsulphoxide and Hydrogen Peroxide in the Course of Alternative Medicine Therapy
Authors: Rzepczyk Szymon , Świderski Paweł , Sommerfeld-Klatta Karina , Tezyk Artur , Łukasik-Głębocka Magdalena , Zielińska-Psuja Barbara , Żaba Zbigniew , Żaba Czesław
Published: July 2023

Unconventional (alternative, natural) medicine in Poland and worldwide includes hundreds of non-scientifically verified “treatment” modalities. Among the most popular are biological therapies using chemical or natural compounds administered with injection or drip infusion. The latter has found the most excellent use in treating rheumatological and dermatological diseases and certain types of cancer. Vitamin infusions, curcumin, glutathione, perhydrol and dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) have gained popularity among clients of natural medicine clinics. The present study aims to analyse the case of a 37-year-old woman who was administered infusions containing perhydrol and DMSO (0.5 mL 0.04% hydrogen peroxide/0.5 mL p.d.a DMSO in saline) due to a MTHFR A1298C mutation. After having the next infusion, the woman complained of nausea and then became unconscious. Subsequently, she suffered respiratory and cardiac arrest. Adequate resuscitation was undertaken. After being taken to the hospital, the patient was in critical condition and died due to increasing multiple-organ failure. Initially, there was suspected DMSO poisoning as it was the only compound to have been administered as an intravenous infusion. However, it was not until the analysis of the secured evidence that it became clear that the patient had also been given an intravenous solution of hydrogen peroxide, H2O2, and that there had been a mistake in preparing the intravenous perhydrol solution. The autopsy concluded that the immediate cause of death was an acute cardiopulmonary failure due to the toxic effects of intravenously administered hydrogen peroxide. This conclusion was established after the toxicological testing of the evidence and biological material secured during the patient’s treatment and autopsy. Products containing DMSO and perhydrol are not included in the lists of medicinal/therapeutical forms and preparations and thus are not authorised for marketing in Poland. In the case of perhydrol, apart from the topical use of diluted preparations for washing and cleansing wounds, no data on therapeutic use exist in the available scientific literature. Furthermore, “DMSO and perhydrol therapy” cannot even be considered a placebo effect, as both are toxic compounds which could, at most, cause poisoning symptoms rather than improve health.
Schistosoma and Leishmania: An Untold Story of Coinfection
Authors: Camelo Genil Mororó Araújo , Silva Jeferson Kelvin Alves de Oliveira , Geiger Stefan Michael , Melo Maria Norma , Negrão-Corrêa Deborah Aparecida
Published: July 2023

A remarkable characteristic of infectious diseases classified as Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) is the fact that they are mostly transmitted in tropical and subtropical regions with poor conditions of sanitation and low access to healthcare, which makes transmission areas more likely to overlap. Two of the most important NTDs, schistosomiasis and leishmaniasis, despite being caused by very different etiological agents, have their pathogenesis heavily associated with immune-mediated mechanisms, and Schistosoma spp. and Leishmania spp. have been shown to simultaneously infect humans. Still, the consequences of Schistosoma–Leishmania coinfections remain underexplored. As the inflammatory processes elicited by each one of these parasites can influence the other, several changes have been observed due to this coinfection in naturally infected humans, experimental models, and in vitro cell assays, including modifications in susceptibility to infection, pathogenesis, prognostic, and response to treatment. Herein, we review the current knowledge in Schistosoma–Leishmania coinfections in both human populations and experimental models, with special regard to how schistosomiasis affects tegumentary leishmaniasis, discuss future perspectives, and suggest a few steps to further improve our understanding in this model of parasite–host–parasite interaction.
VP3 Phage Combined with High Salt Promotes the Lysis of Biofilm-Associated Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Li Xu , Li Xiaorui , Zhang Huayao , Kan Biao , Fan Fenxia
Published: July 2023

Cholera, caused by pathogenic Vibrio cholerae, poses a significant public health risk through water and food transmission. Biofilm-associated V. cholerae plays a crucial role in seasonal cholera outbreaks as both a reservoir in aquatic environments and a direct source of human infection. Although VP3, a lytic phage, shows promise in eliminating planktonic V. cholerae from the aquatic environment, its effectiveness against biofilm-associated V. cholerae is limited. To address this limitation, our proposed approach aims to enhance the efficacy of VP3 in eliminating biofilm-associated V. cholerae by augmenting the availability of phage receptors on the surface of Vibrio cholerae. TolC is a receptor of VP3 and a salt efflux pump present in many bacteria. In this study, we employed NaCl as an enhancer to stimulate TolC expression and observed a significant enhancement of TolC expression in both planktonic and biofilm cells of V. cholerae. This enhancement led to improved adsorption of VP3. Importantly, our findings provide strong evidence that high salt concentrations combined with VP3 significantly improve the elimination of biofilm-associated V. cholerae. This approach offers a potential strategy to eliminate biofilm-formation bacteria by enhancing phage–host interaction.
Contribution of the Nuclear Localization Sequences of Influenza A Nucleoprotein to the Nuclear Import of the Influenza Genome in Infected Cells
Authors: Nguyen Nhan L. T. , Wu Wei , Panté Nelly
Published: July 2023

Replication of the RNA genome of influenza A virus occurs in the nucleus of infected cells. The influenza nucleoprotein (NP) associated with the viral RNA into ribonucleoprotein complexes (vRNPs) is involved in the nuclear import of the viral genome. NP has two nuclear localization sequences (NLSs), NLS1 and NLS2. Most studies have concentrated on the role of NP’s NLSs using in vitro-assembled or purified vRNPs, which may differ from incoming vRNPs released in the cytoplasm during an infection. Here, we study the contribution of the NP’s NLSs to the nuclear import of vRNPs in a cell culture model system for influenza infection: human lung carcinoma cells infected with viruses containing NP-carrying mutations in NLS1 or NLS2 (NLS2MT), generated by reverse genetics. We found that cells infected with these mutant viruses were defective in the nuclear import of incoming vRNPs and produced reduced amounts of newly synthesized NP, newly assembled vRNP, and progeny virus. In addition, NLS2MT-infected cells were also defective in the nucleolar accumulation of NP, confirming the nucleolar localization role of NLS2. Our findings indicate that both NLS1 and NLS2 have to be present for successful infection and demonstrate the crucial role of these two NLSs in the infection cycle of the influenza A virus.
BMS-265246, a Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor, Inhibits the Infection of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Authors: Jiang Lefang , Yu Yang , Li Zhuogang , Gao Yarou , Zhang Haonan , Zhang Mingxin , Cao Weihua , Peng Qun , Chen Xulin
Published: July 2023

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infections are prevalent illnesses that can cause mucocutaneous ulcerative disease, keratitis, and genital herpes. In patients with compromised immune systems, the infection can lead to serious problems, such as encephalitis. Additionally, neonatal infections can cause brain problems and even death. Current first-line antiviral drugs are nucleoside analog inhibitors that target viral polymerase, and resistant strains have emerged. As a result, new drugs with distinct action modes are needed. Recent research indicates that cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are prospective antiviral targets. Thus, CDK inhibitors may be effective antiviral agents against HSV-1 infection. In this study, we examined a panel of CDK inhibitors that target CDKs in the present study. BMS-265246 (BMS), a CDK 1/2 inhibitor, was found to effectively limit HSV-1 multiplication in Vero, HepG2, and Hela cells. A mechanism of action study suggested that BMS inhibits the early stages of viral replication when added early in the viral infection. The suppression of multiple steps in viral replication by BMS was revealed when HSV-1 infected cells were treated at different time periods in the viral life cycle. Our results suggest that BMS is a potent anti-HSV-1 agent and unique in that it may interfere with multiple steps in HSV-1 replication.
Oncolytic Virus Engineering and Utilizations: Cancer Immunotherapy Perspective
Authors: Muthukutty Palaniyandi , Yoo So Young
Published: July 2023

Oncolytic viruses have positively impacted cancer immunotherapy over the past 20 years. Both natural and genetically modified viruses have shown promising results in treating various cancers. Various regulatory authorities worldwide have approved four commercial oncolytic viruses, and more are being developed to overcome this limitation and obtain better anti-tumor responses in clinical trials at various stages. Faster advancements in translating research into the commercialization of cancer immunotherapy and a comprehensive understanding of the modification strategies will widen the current knowledge of future technologies related to the development of oncolytic viruses. In this review, we discuss the strategies of virus engineering and the progress of clinical trials to achieve virotherapeutics.
Host DNA Demethylation Induced by DNMT1 Inhibition Up-Regulates Antiviral OASL Protein during Influenza a Virus Infection
Authors: Zhao Zhiyan , Li Jing , Feng Ye , Kang Xiaoping , Li Yuchang , Chen Yuehong , Li Wei , Yang Wenguang , Zhao Lu , Huang Shenghai , Zhang Sen , Jiang Tao
Published: July 2023

Influenza A virus (IAV) is a leading cause of human respiratory infections and poses a major public health concern. IAV replication can affect the expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), and the subsequent changes in DNA methylation regulate gene expression and may lead to abnormal gene transcription and translation, yet the underlying mechanisms of virus-induced epigenetic changes from DNA methylation and its role in virus–host interactions remain elusive. Here in this paper, we showed that DNMT1 expression could be suppressed following the inhibition of miR-142-5p or the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway during IAV infection, resulting in demethylation of the promotor region of the 2′-5′-oligoadenylate synthetase-like (OASL) protein and promotion of its expression in A549 cells. OASL expression enhanced RIG-I-mediated interferon induction and then suppressed replication of IAV. Our study elucidated an innate immunity mechanism by which up-regulation of OASL contributes to host antiviral responses via epigenetic modifications in IAV infection, which could provide important insights into the understanding of viral pathogenesis and host antiviral defense.
A Newly Emerging Serotype A Strain in Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus with Higher Severity and Mortality in Buffalo than in Cattle Calves in North Egypt
Authors: Metwally Samy , Bkear Nabil , Badr Yassien , Elshafey Besheer , Alhag Sadeq K. , Al-Shuraym Laila A. , Batiha Gaber , Fakhry Bassant , Hamada Rania
Published: July 2023

A severe foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) epidemic struck several Egyptian provinces recently, causing significant losses among animals even in vaccinated farms. This study indicated the existence of the newly emerging foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) and first investigated its effect on the Egyptian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and cattle calves in the Beheira province, north Egypt. Twenty tongue epithelial samples from diseased calves in five infected farms were randomly collected, prepared, and propagated using baby hamster kidney-21 (BHK-21) cells. Whole genomic RNA was extracted from the cells of the third passage. A FMDV genome was detected and serotyped using one-step reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions (RT-PCRs). Nucleotide sequencing of the purified serotype-specific PCR bands was performed, and a maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree based on 600 base pairs of VP1 was constructed. The results identified FMDV, serotype A in all infected samples, whereas the serotypes O and SAT2 were negative. The obtained 20 sequences were identical to each other and similar to the newly reported strain in Egypt that belongs to the Europe–South America (Euro–SA) topotype. The epidemiological and clinical parameters associated with such a strain were fully recorded by veterinarians and analyzed in a single infected farm including 70 cattle and buffalo calves. It caused higher peracute mortalities in buffalo (25.7%; 95% CI: 13–43) than in cattle (8.6%; 95% CI: 2–24) calves. Severe clinical signs such as dullness, hypothermia, bradycardia, and cardiac arrhythmia were common to both except in fatal cases, whereas hyperthermia and respiratory signs were prevalent in cattle calves. In conclusion, we first characterized the newly emerging FMDV in the calves of Beheira as more fatal and severe in buffalo than in cattle calves.
Evaluation of Antibody Tests for Mycobacterium bovis Infection in Pigs and Deer
Authors: Barton Penny , Robinson Nick , Middleton Sonya , O’Brien Amanda , Clarke John , Dominguez Maria , Gillgan Steve , Selmes John , Rhodes Shelley
Published: July 2023

This study addressed the need in Great Britain for supplementary blood tests for deer and pig herds under movement restrictions due to confirmed Mycobacterium bovis infection—to enhance the overall sensitivity and reliability of tuberculosis (TB) testing and contribute to an exit strategy for these herds. We evaluated four antibody tests (lateral flow DPP VetTB Assay for Cervids, M. bovis IDEXX ELISA, Enferplex Cervid and Porcine antibody tests and an in-house comparative PPD ELISA) using serum samples from defined cohorts of TB-infected and TB-free deer and pigs. TB-infected deer included two separate cohorts; farmed deer that had received a tuberculin skin test less than 30 days prior, and park deer that had received no prior skin test. In this way, we were able to assess the effect of the skin test anamnestic boost upon antibody test sensitivity. We tested a total of 402 TB-free pigs and 416 TB-free deer, 77 infected farmed deer and 105 infected park deer, and 29 infected pigs (including 2 wild boar). For deer, we found an equivalent high performance of all four tests: specificity range 98.8–99.5% and sensitivity range 76.6–85.7% for skin test-boosted infected deer, and 51.4–58.1% for non-boosted infected deer. These data suggest an overall approximate 25% increase in test sensitivity for infected deer following a skin test boost. For pigs, the tests again had equivalent high specificity of 99–99.5% and a sensitivity range of 62.1–86.2%, with substantial agreement for three of the four tests. Retrospective application of the ELISA tests to individual culled park deer and wild boar that showed no obvious evidence of TB at larder inspection identified a significant seropositivity within wild boar suggestive of low-level M. bovis infection that would otherwise not have been detected. Overall this investigation provided a robust evaluation of four antibody tests, which is essential to generate confidence in test performance before a wider deployment within TB control measures can be considered.
Combined Branch Retinal Artery and Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pinna Antonio , Zinellu Angelo , Serra Rita , Boscia Giacomo , Ronchi Lorenza , Dore Stefano
Published: July 2023

We performed a systematic review and analyzed the current available data on branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) with simultaneous central retinal vein obstruction (CRVO), a rarely described occurrence. MEDLINE/PubMed and ISI Web of Sciences searches were performed according to MOOSE guidelines. Studies were considered eligible if they (1) described patients with simultaneous BRAO + CRVO and (2) had been published in peer-reviewed journals. We initially identified 239 records from databases. Ultimately, only 19 reports met the selection criteria. Twenty-nine patients (15 men, 14 women; mean age 43 ± 15 years) were analyzed. Seventeen (59%) patients presented vascular risk factors. Mean visual acuity at onset and final visual outcome were 20/83 and 20/45, respectively, an insignificant improvement. Vision improved in 48% of cases. A marked heterogeneity in treatment approach was found. Eight (28%) patients received no therapy, whereas for 21 (72%) a large variety of topical and/or systemic drugs was given. In the treated group, mean visual acuity at onset and final visual outcome were 20/90 and 20/44, respectively, a not statistically significant improvement. Results suggest that combined BRAO + CRVO occurs at a younger age than isolated BRAO or CRVO. At present, there is insufficient evidence to support any specific management to improve vision in simultaneous BRAO + CRVO.
Effect of Subsurface Drainage Combined with Biochar on the Bacterial Community Composition of Coastal Saline Soil
Authors: Tian Yuyu , Li Dongwei , Wang Yuting , Zhao Qingqing , Li Zongpeng , Jing Rui , Zhou Xinguo
Published: July 2023

Waterlogging and salinization are considered to be the main threats to agricultural productivity and land resources in coastal areas of China. Thus far, drainage and field soil improvement programs have been ineffective. In this article, we investigated the effect of subsurface drainage combined with biochar (B–S) on soil physicochemical properties and soil bacterial community structure in coastal saline soil. In this study, B–S significantly reduced soil electrical conductivity (EC) and soil water content (W) by 35% and 10.65% compared to no drainage (CK). Compared to CK and drainage alone (S), B–S significantly increased soil total nitrogen (TN) by 24.78% and 39.62%, soil available phosphorus (AP) by 28.29% and 69.82%, soil nitrate (NO3−-N) by 64.65% and 35.45%, and significantly increased soil organic matter (SOM) by 74.69% and 66.10%, respectively. It also significantly increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and urease activities. The results of redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that CAT and urease made the greatest response to changes in environmental factors, indicating that CAT is more sensitive to changes in environmental alterations than ALP. AP was the dominant factor in the change in enzyme activity (R2 = 53.0%, p < 0.05), followed by NO3−-N (R2 = 14.8%). SOM was the dominant factor in the variation in microbial abundance content (R2 = 38.5%, p < 0.05), followed by ALP (R2 = 20.0%, p < 0.05). The results of the study can provide guidance for effective land use and sustainable development of agricultural soil ecology in coastal areas.
Monthly Runoff Forecasting Using Particle Swarm Optimization Coupled with Flower Pollination Algorithm-Based Deep Belief Networks: A Case Study in the Yalong River Basin
Authors: Yue Zhaoxin , Liu Huaizhi , Zhou Hui
Published: July 2023

Accuracy in monthly runoff forecasting is of great significance in the full utilization of flood and drought control and of water resources. Data-driven models have been proposed to improve monthly runoff forecasting in recent years. To effectively promote the prediction effect of monthly runoff, a novel hybrid data-driven model using particle swarm optimization coupled with flower pollination algorithm-based deep belief networks (PSO-FPA-DBNs) was proposed, which selected the optimal network depth via PSO and searched for the optimum hyper parameters (the number of neurons in the hidden layer and the learning rate of the RBMs) in the DBN using FPA. The methodology was divided into three steps: (i) the Comprehensive Basin Response (COM) was constructed and calculated to characterize the hydrological state of the basin, (ii) the information entropy algorithm was adopted to select the key factors, and (iii) the novel model was proposed for monthly runoff forecasting. We systematically compared the PSO-FPA-DBN model with the traditional prediction models (i.e., the backpropagation neural network (BPNN), support vector machines (SVM), deep belief networks (DBN)), and other improved models (DBN-PLSR, PSO-GA-DBN, and PSO-ACO-DBN) for monthly runoff forecasting by using an original dataset. Experimental results demonstrated that our PSO-FPA-DBN model outperformed the peer models, with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 18.23%, root mean squared error (RMSE) of 230.45 m3/s, coefficient of determination (DC) of 0.9389, and qualified rate (QR) of 64.2% for the data from the Yalong River Basin. Also, the stability of our PSO-FPA-DBN model was evaluated. The proposed model might adapt effectively to the nonlinear characteristics of monthly runoff forecasting; therefore, it could obtain accurate and reliable runoff forecasting results.
Surrogate-Based Multiobjective Optimization of Detention Pond Volume in Sponge City
Authors: Yang Yuanyuan , Xin Yanfei , Li Jiake
Published: July 2023

Detention ponds are effective structures for stormwater management in the urban drainage system of sponge cities. The pond size is taken as the decision variable, while the cost, total suspended solids (TSS), and catchment peak outflow (CPO) serve as the objectives for optimizing the detention pond volume. First, we randomly generated 10,000 pond areas and input them into the stormwater management model to simulate the time series of outflow and suspended solids concentration, thereby generating samples by combining the set of pond area, corresponding cost, TSS, and CPO. Then, two backpropagation neural network models (i.e., BPNN-TSS and BPNN-CPO) were trained, tested, and evaluated for predicting TSS and CPO, respectively. We employed them as surrogates and used the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II to solve the optimization problem. The results showed: (1) The BPNN models accurately predicted TSS and CPO (determination coefficient 0.988~0.996, Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency 0.988~0.997), and efficiently substituted stormwater management model simulations for optimization purposes (residuals −18.49~28.10 kg and −0.45~0.29 m3/s). (2) For the Pareto solutions, the detention pond reduced TSS by 0~8.33% and CPO by 0~72.44% and delayed their peaks by 4~52 min; the reduction in TSS and CPO tends to grow as pond size increases, and CPO reduction exhibits a minor marginal effect. (3) The surrogate-based approach saves 90.03% runtime while preserving the quality of the Pareto solutions, verifying reliability.
Riverside Landslide Susceptibility Overview: Leveraging Artificial Neural Networks and Machine Learning in Accordance with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Nanehkaran Yaser A. , Chen Biyun , Cemiloglu Ahmed , Chen Junde , Anwar Sheraz , Azarafza Mohammad , Derakhshani Reza
Published: July 2023

Riverside landslides present a significant geohazard globally, posing threats to infrastructure and human lives. In line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to address global challenges, professionals in the field have developed diverse methodologies to analyze, assess, and predict the occurrence of landslides, including quantitative, qualitative, and semi-quantitative approaches. With the advent of computer programs, quantitative techniques have gained prominence, with computational intelligence and knowledge-based methods like artificial neural networks (ANNs) achieving remarkable success in landslide susceptibility assessments. This article offers a comprehensive review of the literature concerning the utilization of ANNs for landslide susceptibility assessment, focusing specifically on riverside areas, in alignment with the SDGs. Through a systematic search and analysis of various references, it has become evident that ANNs have emerged as the preferred method for these assessments, surpassing traditional approaches. The application of ANNs aligns with the SDGs, particularly Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which emphasizes the importance of inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable urban environments. By effectively assessing riverside landslide susceptibility using ANNs, communities can better manage risks and enhance the resilience of cities and communities to geohazards. While the number of ANN-based studies in landslide susceptibility modeling has grown in recent years, the overarching objective remains consistent: researchers strive to develop more accurate and detailed procedures. By leveraging the power of ANNs and incorporating relevant SDGs, this survey focuses on the most commonly employed neural network methods for riverside landslide susceptibility mapping, contributing to the overall SDG agenda of promoting sustainable development, resilience, and disaster risk reduction. Through the integration of ANNs in riverside landslide susceptibility assessments, in line with the SDGs, this review aims to advance our knowledge and understanding of this field. By providing insights into the effectiveness of ANNs and their alignment with the SDGs, this research contributes to the development of improved risk management strategies, sustainable urban planning, and resilient communities in the face of riverside landslides.
Three-Dimensional Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics Modelling of Liquid–Sediment Interaction at Coastline Region
Authors: Zawawi Mohd Hafiz , Arizan Mohamad Aizat Bin Mohd , Zahari Nazirul Mubin , Apalowo Rilwan Kayode , Abas Aizat , Itam Zarina
Published: July 2023

The three-dimensional liquid–sediment system of a coastline was investigated using experimental and numerical approaches. A scaled-down model of the coastline was numerically studied using smooth particle hydrodynamics (SPH). The flow dynamics and the impacts of the wave frequency and the seaward slope angle on the breaking wave characteristics of the two-phase liquid–sediment interaction were parametrically studied. A particle image velocimetry (PIV) experiment was conducted to validate the SPH predictions. It was found that the flow profiles obtained by the PIV and SPH are in good agreement both qualitatively and quantitatively. The maximum velocity of the fluid flow was recorded as 0.5623 m/s in the SPH simulation, but as 0.5860 m/s in the PIV experimental, with a percentage difference of 4.21%. Subsequently, it was found that the breaking wave characteristic is surging at the wave frequency range of f<0.15 Hz, plunging at 0.15<f<0.55 Hz, and spilling at 0.55<f≤1.0 Hz. It was also established that at a particular Froude number, it is observed that spilling, plunging, and surging wave breakers are produced at low, mid, and high seaward slope angles, respectively. Meanwhile, increasing the Froude number increases the tendency to produce spilling or plugging breaking waves, irrespective of the slope angle. Ultimately, this study has demonstrated the presented methodology’s usefulness in investigating coastlines’ liquid–sediment interaction properties.
A Comparison of Saturated Hydraulic Conductivity (Ksat) Estimations from Pedotransfer Functions (PTFs) and Field Observations in Riparian Seasonal Wetlands
Authors: Abesh Bidisha Faruque , Hubbart Jason A.
Published: July 2023

Accurate saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) predictions are critical for precise water flow estimations. Pedotransfer functions (PTFs) have been used to estimate Ksat based on soil structural and textural properties. However, PTF accuracy must be validated with observed Ksat values to improve confidence in model predictions. A study was conducted in the seasonal wetlands of a representative mixed land-use watershed in West Virginia (WV), USA. The observed data included soil characteristics and observed piezometric Ksat using slug tests. Soil texture was predominantly sandy, and the observed average Ksat ranged from 35.90 to 169.64 m/d. The average bulk dry density (bdry) increased, while porosity and volumetric water content decreased significantly with a depth to 45 cm (p < 0.05). The degree of saturation varied significantly between monitoring sites (p < 0.05). A Pearson correlation matrix and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that Ksat was more connected to soil textural properties, specifically clay. Single parameter PTFs that estimated Ksat as a function of clay content performed better (ME = −90.19 m/d, RMSE = 102.87 m/d) than the PTFs that used silt or sand percentages (ME= −96.86 m/d, RMSE = 108.77). However, all five PTFs predicted Ksat with low accuracy (RMSE > 100 m/d), emphasizing the need to calibrate existing PTFs with observed data or develop site-specific PTFs. These results provide valuable insights into Ksat estimation in riparian wetlands of mixed land-use watersheds and are a helpful reference for land managers and future work.
Hydrochemistry, Elements Distribution and Their Potential Recoveries in Gold Metallurgical Treatment Tailings Dams
Authors: Lemos Mariana Gazire , Valente Teresa Maria , Reis Amélia Paula Marinho , Braga Amália Sequeira , Fonseca Rita Maria Ferreira , Guabiroba Fernanda , Filho José Gregorio da Mata , Magalhães Marcus Felix , Silva Antonio Roberto , Bhering Apolo Pedrosa , Rebelo Diório Giovana
Published: July 2023

Wastewaters are valuable sources of metals and metalloids and can serve as essential resources for their recovery. Characterizing and understanding the occurrence of metals and other compounds, along with identifying the most effective recovery methods, are key steps in unlocking the potential for reusing these resources. The present study focused on analyzing waters from various mining dams in the Iron Quadrangle (IQ) region of Brazil, which contained metals such as Au, Cu, Ni, Zn, and sulfates resulting from the metallurgical treatment of Au. The results revealed a range of metal concentrations in the neutral zone in three tailings. Additionally, a 3D map was created, and a statistical analysis and an exploration of the processes governing mobility and partitioning were conducted to assess the potential for reuse. Notably, the study identified a high potential for Au recovery, particularly through the utilization of sustainable and cost-effective methods such as nanofibers with biosorbents. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding and exploration of potential reuse procedures for strategic metals in various industrial applications.
Suspended Sediment Transport in Mediterranean Streams: Monitoring and Load Estimation
Authors: De Girolamo Anna Maria , Ricci Giovanni Francesco , Abdelwahab Ossama M. M. , Lo Porto Antonio , Milillo Fabio , Netti Addolorata Maria , Gentile Francesco
Published: July 2023

The suspended sediment (SS) load provides valuable insights into soil loss magnitude, requiring comprehensive monitoring of streamflow (Q) and SS concentrations (SSC) across various hydrological conditions. The primary aim of this paper was to quantify SS loads in two mountainous river basins: the Carapelle (506 km2) and the Celone (72 km2) located in Apulia (Southeast Italy) where different monitoring strategies were adopted (i.e., continuous and discrete). The specific objective was to develop sediment rating curves to address gaps in the SSC time series. An optical probe was used to continuously monitor the SSC during 2007 to 2011 in a river section of the Carapelle river, while Q was measured with the ultrasonic method. A comprehensive dataset comprising continuous Q measurements and discrete SSC measurements was systematically acquired for the Celone river over the period of 2010 to 2011. Distinct sediment rating curves were formulated for three specific subsets of data delineated by discernible hydrological conditions (i.e., high, normal, and low flow) and SSCs were computed for the missing daily records. The annual specific sediment load exhibited a range of 2.4 to 6.06 t ha−1 yr−1 for the Celone river, while the Carapelle river displayed a range of 0.9 to 7.45 t ha−1 yr−1. A significant majority of the SS load was transported during high-flow conditions, accounting for over 80% of the total load. In contrast, during low-flow conditions, the SS load constituted less than 1% of the total load. The findings of this study highlight the significance of the hydrological regime as a critical factor influencing sediment transport in mountainous Mediterranean rivers. Furthermore, it demonstrates that the duration of the sampling period, along with its specific characteristics, such as dry or wet conditions, can have a substantial impact on the accurate quantification of the sediment load.
Traceability and Biogeochemical Process of Nitrate in the Jinan Karst Spring Catchment, North China
Authors: Wang Kairan , Chen Xuequn , Wu Zhen , Wang Mingsen , Wang Hongbo
Published: July 2023

Accurate identification of nitrate (NO3−) sources is critical to addressing groundwater pollution, especially in highly vulnerable karst aquifers. The groundwater hydrochemistry and δ15NNO3 and δ18ONO3 isotopes were analyzed in samples taken from the Jinan Spring Catchment, which has been affected by urbanization and agricultural activities. The study highlighted the use of hydrochemistry, environmental isotopes, and a multisource linear mixed model for NO3− source identification and apportionment. The results showed that, controlled by carbonate rocks, the hydrochemical types in both rainy and dry seasons were highly consistent, and HCO3·SO4−Ca was the dominant type, accounting for 60%. Except for Ca2+, Mg2+ and HCO3−, the coefficients of variation of other ions were all greater than 0.5 in rainy and dry seasons. The chemical composition of groundwater was mainly controlled by water–rock interaction. Ca2+ and HCO3− were mainly derived from carbonate rock dissolution; K+, Na+, SO42−, NO3− and Cl− were partially derived from atmospheric precipitation. The IsoSource model quantitatively revealed that the majority of the groundwater and surface water was influenced by manure and sewage (M&S) contributing 39.3% and 52.3% in the rainy season, and 37.1% and 56.9% in the dry season, respectively. The NO3− source fraction rates were in the order M&S > SON > AF > CF > AD. In addition, nitrate pollution control measures and suggestions for different areas are put forward. In rural residential areas, the free discharge of livestock manure and sewage should be strictly controlled. In agricultural planting areas, chemical fertilizers and pesticides should be used rationally to prevent non-point source pollution. In urban areas, the centralized treatment of industrial and residential sewage should be strengthened to prevent point source pollution.
Prediction of the Height of Fractured Water-Conducting Zone: Significant Factors and Model Optimization
Authors: Gu Linjun , Shen Yanjun , Wang Nianqin , Kou Haibo , Song Shijie
Published: July 2023

Predicting the height of the fractured water-conducting zone (FWCZ) can be challenging due to their significant grey characteristics and the difficulty in scientifically selecting relevant influencing factors. To address this issue, we utilized the Pearson correlation analysis method and the grey entropy correlation analysis method to identify the significant factors and their degree of correlation with the height of FWCZ. Based on this, several constructed models were optimized, and the reliability of the best regression model was verified through parameter inversion analysis. The results indicate that the spatial distribution differences of the main coal mining seams contribute to the complex and variable occurrence conditions of coal seams. This is an important factor that contributes to the significant gray characteristics in predicting the height of FWCZ in the study area. A modeling approach has been proposed for predicting the height of FWCZ. This method is based on analyzing significant factors and conducting a multi-level evaluation of the selected prediction models. The order of correlation between significant influencing factors and the height of FWCZ is as follows: comprehensive hardness of overlying rock > average thickness of sandstone > mining depth > mining height. The results of the multi-level evaluation analysis show that, when using small sample high-quality datasets, the GA-Catboost algorithm has better prediction accuracy compared to the MSR and GA-BP algorithms. The results of the parameter inversion analysis for the GA-Catboost regression prediction model indicate that within the mining height range of 2.5–5.5 m, the ratio of fractured/mining height in the main coal seams is primarily concentrated between 20.45–30.59. In addition, a prediction method was developed to determine the limiting mining height by considering water conservation in coal mining. The relevant research results can provide fundamental theoretical support for ensuring safety in underground production and protecting groundwater in mining areas.
The Mediterranean Killifish Aphanius fasciatus (Valenciennes, 1821) (Teleostei: Cyprinodontidae) as a Sentinel Species for Protection of the Quality of Transitional Water Environments: Literature, Insights, and Perspectives
Authors: Lionetto Maria Giulia , Zonno Vincenzo , Schiavone Roberta , Giordano Maria Elena , Barca Amilcare , Belmonte Genuario , Verri Tiziano
Published: July 2023

Transitional waters are fragile ecosystems with high ecological values, representing the breeding and resting sites for rare and threatened species. They warrant particular attention in regards to protection, as they experience numerous anthropogenic threats. The present review aims to analyze the recent literature on Aphanius fasciatus, currently considered one of the most strictly estuarine-dependent fish species, thus affected by the degradation of lagoon habitats, and to discuss its suitability as a sentinel species for protection of the quality of transitional water environments. The analysis and discussion highlight the potential applicability of the molecular, cellular, and physiological responses of this species as diagnostic tools for detecting the subtle effects induced by environmental pollution on the biota in transitional water environments. Moreover, the suitability of the responses of this species is suggested in the wider framework of the One Health perspective, which considers human and animal health and the environmental state to be highly interconnected, sharing common aspects. To date, omics technologies show great potential in reacquiring novel knowledge on the responses of the organisms to environmental changes and to the alterations of the environmental health status. Therefore, considering the relevant potential of this organism as a sentinel species, many efforts are required in the near future to improve the quantity and quality of the omics tools that refer to A. fasciatus.
Simulating Changes in Hydrological Extremes—Future Scenarios for Morocco
Authors: Giustarini Laura , Schumann Guy J. -P. , Kettner Albert J. , Smith Andrew , Nawrotzki Raphael
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive river discharge analysis to estimate past and future hydrological extremes across Morocco. Hydrological simulations with historical forcing and climate change scenario inputs have been performed to better understand the change in magnitude and frequency of extreme discharge events that cause flooding. Simulations are applied to all major rivers of Morocco, including a total of 16 basins that cover the majority of the country. An ensemble of temperature and precipitation input parameter sets was generated to analyze input uncertainty, an approach that can be extended to other regions of the world, including data-sparse regions. Parameter uncertainty was also included in the analyses. Historical simulations comprise the period 1979–2021, while future simulations (2015–2100) were performed under the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 2–4.5 and SSP5–8.5. Clear patterns of changing flood extremes are projected; these changes are significant when considered as a proportion of the land area of the country. Two types of basins have been identified, based on their different behavior in climate change scenarios. In the Northern/Mediterranean basins we observe a decrease in the frequency and intensity of events by 2050 under both SSPs, whereas for the remaining catchments higher and more frequent high-flow events in the form of flash floods are detected. Our analysis revealed that this is a consequence of the reduction in rainfall accumulation and intensity in both SSPs for the first type of basins, while the opposite applies to the other type. More generally, we propose a methodology that does not rely on observed time series of discharge, so especially for regions where those do not exist or are not available, and that can be applied to undertake future flood projections in the most data-scarce regions. This method allows future hydrological hazards to be estimated for essentially any region of the world.