bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy Machine Learning Applications in Environmental Engineering: Does the Ability to Deal with Uncertainty Really Matter?
Authors: Bressane Adriano , Garcia Ana Júlia da Silva , Castro Marcos Vinícius de , Xerfan Stefano Donatelli , Ruas Graziele , Negri Rogério Galante
Published: May 2024

Statement of Problem: Environmental engineering confronts complex challenges characterized by significant uncertainties. Traditional modeling methods often fail to effectively address these uncertainties. As a promising direction, this study explores fuzzy machine learning (ML) as an underutilized alternative. Research Question: Although the potential of fuzzy logic is widely acknowledged, can its capabilities truly enhance environmental engineering applications? Purpose: This research aims to deepen the understanding of the role and significance of fuzzy logic in managing uncertainty within environmental engineering applications. The objective is to contribute to both theoretical insights and practical implementations in this domain. Method: This research performs a systematic review carried out in alignment with PRISMA guidelines, encompassing 27 earlier studies that compare fuzzy ML with other methods across a variety of applications within the field of environmental engineering. Results: The findings demonstrate how fuzzy-based models consistently outperform traditional methods in scenarios marked by uncertainty. The originality of this research lies in its systematic comparison and the identification of fuzzy logic’s transparent, interpretable nature as particularly suited for environmental engineering challenges. This approach provides a new perspective on integrating fuzzy logic into environmental engineering, emphasizing its capability to offer more adaptable and resilient solutions. Conclusions: The analysis reveals that fuzzy-based models significantly excel in managing uncertainty compared to other methods. However, the study advocates for a case-by-case evaluation rather than a blanket replacement of traditional methods with fuzzy models. This approach encourages optimal selection based on specific project needs. Practical Implications: Our findings offer actionable insights for researchers and engineers, highlighting the transparent and interpretable nature of fuzzy models, along with their superior ability to handle uncertainties. Such attributes position fuzzy logic as a promising alternative in environmental engineering applications. Moreover, policymakers can leverage the reliability of fuzzy logic in developing ML-aided sustainable policies, thereby enhancing decision-making processes in environmental management.
Amazon Deforestation and Global Meat Consumption Trends: An Assessment of Land Use Change and Market Data from Rondônia That Shows Why We Should Consider Changing Our Diets
Authors: Donoso Veronica Garcia , Hirye Mayumi C. M. , Gerwenat Christiane , Reicher Christa
Published: May 2024

This paper seeks to elucidate the interrelationship between global meat consumption and deforestation in the Amazon region. To this end, empirical research is conducted to investigate land use changes in Rondônia and the expansion of pasture areas and beef production. Brazil is one of the largest beef producers in the world, with products destined for local and global markets. Based on bibliographical research, the paper analyzes maps of land use change between 1985 and 2021, using Landsat satellite imagery and the MapBiomas methodology for Landsat mosaic and classification. The research shows that beef from Rondônia is primarily purchased and consumed in Brazil, but it is also bought and sold on the international market. Landsat imagery analysis shows the predominance of forest conversion to pasture in Rondônia. The results show that deforestation in the Amazon is directly linked to the growth of cattle ranching. Land use change from native forest to pasture for beef cattle production is a reality in the Brazilian Amazon, especially in Rondônia. It suggests the urgent need for more conscious consumption and production practices as well as ethical and sustainable eating habits.
Assessment of Desertification Dynamics in Arid Coastal Areas by Integrating Remote Sensing Data and Statistical Techniques
Authors: Hasan Samia S. , Alharbi Omar A. , Alqurashi Abdullah F. , Fahil Amr S.
Published: May 2024

Arid coastal regions are threatened by land desertification, which poses a serious threat to desert ecosystems, urban areas, and sustainability on a local as well as global scale. The present study aims to map desertification and the degree of its severity over the Jazan province on the western coast of Saudi Arabia. This investigation was conducted through the integration of remote sensing data (2001 and 2020) and statistical techniques. A scatter diagram, Karl Pearson correlation coefficient, and significance p-value test were performed on various spectral indices and tasseled cap transformation (TCT) derivative matrices to determine the strong significant relation of the spectral indices combination. Based on these analyses, the desertification degree index (DDI) was developed using a NDVI–TCG combination. The desertification grades were mapped and categorized into five classes, namely, non-desertification, low, moderate, severe, and extreme desertification. The results indicated that the spatial distribution of desertification grades declined from west to east during the period from 2001 to 2020. The degree of desertification improved during the study period since there was a significant reduction in extremely serious desertification land by 15.5% and an increase in weak desertification land by 7.8%. The dynamic changes in the DDI classes in the Jazan province mainly involve transformation from extremely serious to serious, serious to moderate, and moderate to weak, with areas of 2268.1 km2, 1518.5 km2, and 1062.5 km2, respectively. Generally, over the 19-year period, the restoration of vegetated areas accounted for 41.99% of the total study area, while desertification degradation land represented 15.57% of the total area of the Jazan province.
Strategies for Achieving Sustainable Anesthesia: Insights from Austrian Experts—A Qualitative Interview Study
Authors: Hammer Sascha , Lang-Illievich Kordula , Heuschneider Lioba , Bader Mathias , Bornemann-Cimenti Helmar
Published: May 2024

The implementation of low-carbon healthcare practices will be significantly enhanced by the role of anesthesia personnel. While there is a lack of data on the specific measures being implemented by anesthesia departments in Austria, we conducted interviews with six experts in sustainability within anesthesia to address this knowledge gap. These experts provided insights on strategies for reducing the CO2 impact in the operating theatre, the level of interest among anesthetists in sustainability, the role of green teams in hospitals, and future prospects for sustainable anesthesia. While Austria has made progress in reducing the use of Desfluran, waste separation within operating theatres remains a significant issue. Green teams are present in hospitals, but there is a need for the greater inclusion of anesthetists and clinical staff. The topic of sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the field of anesthesia, and the past three years have witnessed a significant push towards reducing CO2 emissions in hospitals across Austria. The experts identified key steps towards achieving sustainable anesthesia, emphasizing the need for an internal motivation to drive meaningful change. This study highlights the numerous measures that have already been implemented in the pursuit of sustainability in anesthesia and the ongoing efforts towards further improvement.
Analysis of Influencing Factors and Prediction of the Peak Value of Industrial Carbon Emission in the Sichuan-Chongqing Region
Authors: Fang Hanyue , Li Hongbing
Published: May 2024

The greenhouse effect has a negative impact on social and economic development. Analyzing the factors influencing industrial carbon emissions and accurately predicting the peak of industrial carbon emissions to achieve carbon peak and carbon neutrality is therefore vital. The annual data from 2000 to 2022 were used to study the influencing factors of carbon emission and the path of carbon emission reduction. In this study, the gray correlation method and stepwise regression method were used to explore the effective factors that met the significance test and the STIRPAT expansion model was constructed to analyze the characteristics and influencing factors of industrial carbon emissions in the Sichuan-Chongqing region. Finally, the changing trend of regional industrial carbon emissions is predicted by scenario analysis and four development scenarios are set up, which show that (1) from 2000 to 2022, the change in total industrial carbon emissions in Sichuan Province and Chongqing Municipality presents an inverted U-shaped trend, reaching a phased peak in 2013 and 2014, respectively, then declining and then rising again after 2018. (2) Industrial scale foreign trade dependence and population are the effective factors of industrial carbon emission in Sichuan, and all have positive effects. Energy structure and per capita income are the effective factors in Chongqing, showing negative and positive effects, respectively. (3) Analysis of four scenarios shows that the time range of the industrial carbon peak in the Sichuan-Chongqing region is 2030–2035 and that its peak height ranges from 81.98 million tons to 87.64 million tons. Among them, the green development scenario is the most consistent path to achieve the carbon peak as soon as possible; in this case, industrial carbon emissions will peak in 2030, in line with the national target time, and the lowest peak level of 81.98 million tons. The suggestions in this paper are continuously optimizing the energy structure, adjusting the industrial scale, and accelerating scientific and technological progress to achieve sustainable development.
Forecasting Sustainable Development Indicators in Romania: A Study in the European Context
Authors: Ciucu (Durnoi) Alexandra-Nicoleta , Ioanăș Corina , Iordan Marioara , Delcea Camelia
Published: May 2024

Sustainable development is a very important and highly debated concept worldwide, with almost all states around the globe recognizing the importance of supporting a balancing of economic, social and ecological plans to create a more prosperous and equitable world. The purpose of the current study is to identify the current context of the progress achieved by the EU member states regarding the 17 sustainable development objectives. Following the implemented research, it was found that Romania is one of the countries with the lowest performance, so an attempt was made to make a short-term forecast in the case of this country in order to determine its future course. In this sense, the Holt–Winters trend methods were used, which are based on historical data to predict future values. According to the analysis carried out, the predicted values are mainly encouraging, but it is necessary for the competent authorities to become more involved because, in many aspects, Romania is at the bottom of the European Union (EU) ranking regarding the analyzed indicators.
Behavioral Eco-Wellness
Authors: Barrett Bruce
Published: May 2024

The impending climate catastrophe and the worldwide epidemics of metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease are linked to many of the same behaviors, especially to what people eat and how they move around [...]
Vegetation Types Can Affect Soil Organic Carbon and δ13C by Influencing Plant Inputs in Topsoil and Microbial Residue Carbon Composition in Subsoil
Authors: Sun Yuxin , Wang Xia , Zhang Yuanye , Duan Wenhui , Xia Jieyi , Wu Jinhong , Deng Tao
Published: May 2024

Plantation is an economical and effective method of ecological restoration, which is also a common means to increase soil organic carbon (SOC) content. However, the effects of vegetation types on SOC accumulation and δ13C distribution during ecological restoration are still not clear. Therefore, we evaluated the soils under four types of restoration measures: plantation (PL, dominated by Olea europaea ‘Leccino’), grasslands [GLs, Setaria viridis], croplands [CLs, Zea mays] and shrublands (SLs, Lycium chinense Mill), after 11-year restoration. SOC and the natural stable carbon isotope abundance in four recovery modes were determined, while amino sugars (ASs) and lignin phenols (LPs) were used as biomarkers to identify microbial- and plant-derived carbon, respectively. The results showed that SOC, AS, and LP decreased with the increasing of soil depth, and SOC and LP showed the same trend in topsoil (0–20 cm). ASs in subsoil (40–50 cm) were significantly higher in GLs than that in CLs and the PL, while fungi residue carbon in GLs was significantly higher in subsoil. The δ13C in topsoil was mainly affected by plant factors, especially by litter. With the increasing soil depth, the effect of plants on δ13C decreased, and the effect of microorganisms increased. Vegetation types could affect SOC and δ13C by influencing plant inputs in topsoil. In the subsoil, differences in microbial compositions under different vegetation types could affect δ13C enrichment. The study revealed the effects of vegetation types on SOC accumulation and δ13C distribution during ecological restoration, emphasized that vegetation types can affect SOC accumulation by influencing the plant input of topsoil and the microbial compositions in subsoil, and provided a reference for the development of management policies in restoration areas.
Sustainable Learning Process: Assessing the Effectiveness of Teaching Methodology by Analyzing Spatial and Temporal Properties of a Student as a Subject
Authors: Chernova Natalya , Mustafina Jamila , Jayabalan Manoj , Al-Jumeily Dhiya
Published: May 2024

The article outlines the personality of a student as the single channel through which knowledge flows within the cognitive theory of “learning”. This sustainable process is the means of mediating the thought activity of an individual in a higher school. The study estimates personal qualities of a student through the capacity for self-organization, self-regulation, self-development, and realization of the self in the process of cognitive development. The aim is to show how the degree of these capabilities’ influences achieving the fourth goal, “Quality Education”, from the Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations is determined. Participants were second year students (n = 120) of Naberezhnochelninsky Institute, the branch of Kazan Federal University. They were assigned to Experimental Groups following the “participation” pattern and Control Groups following the standard teaching methodology. The methodological structure presented is an important step towards putting “smart education” into practice. Attempts are made to show that subjective attitude on the part of the students is an indispensable condition for contribution to self-development as a multidimensional system having a complex structure. With respect to it, a multi-level system of estimation, considered in development with stability and variability (statics and dynamics) being joined dialectically (progress line and regression line), is designed. The obtained data provide evidence of the necessity for changing the basis of educational processes towards formation of subject’s capabilities while studying academic disciplines. This methodology provides for developing a selective approach to every student.
Creating a Roadmap to Forecast Future Directions in Vertical Green Structures as a Climate Change Mitigation Strategy: A Critical Review of Technology-Driven Applications
Authors: Ogut Ozge , Tzortzi Julia Nerantzia , Bertolin Chiara
Published: May 2024

Urbanization exacerbates climate change impacts, making it crucial to develop innovative strategies for adaptation and mitigation. In this context, the “smartness” concept must be seen as the technical capability to forecast and adapt to changing conditions while maintaining livability and safety. This paper investigates the use of Vertical Green Structures (VGSs) as a mitigation strategy. Through a critical review of technology-driven applications, this research identifies key motivations and challenges in VGSs’ technological integration and implementation, governance frameworks, and community engagement. Methodologically, it employs a critical case analysis and categorizes the technologies based on multicriteria; it also explores the potential to implement smart green infrastructure (GI) in cities and the GI urban governance that was developed in previous decades to adopt these systems at an urban scale and increase the community’s awareness of them. The findings reveal diverse motivations driving technology and VGS integration, ranging from economic incentives to environmental sustainability. Additionally, this contribution explores possible future directions for VGSs and highlights three scenarios derived after the multidimensional impacts of climate change with their pros and cons in future cities. Multidisciplinary collaboration emerges as a crucial factor in optimizing technology implementations in VGSs and fostering a transition from nature-based solutions to technology-based solutions in urban sustainability initiatives.
Incremental versus Radical Innovation and Sustainable Competitive Advantage: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Chen Xiaoping , Xie Hongming , Zhou Huanhuai
Published: May 2024

Innovation is critical for organizations seeking to build and maintain a sustainable advantage in the competitive market. This study aims to construct a moderated mediation model to examine the effects of incremental and radical innovations on competitive advantage, which considers the mediating role of innovation speed and the moderating role of a supportive culture. Data from 201 Chinese firms were collected through questionnaires and the research hypotheses were tested using multiple regression analysis and bootstrapping techniques. The empirical results show that incremental and radical innovations have a significant positive effect on competitive advantage. Radical innovation has a greater impact on competitive advantage compared to incremental innovation. Innovation speed mediates the relationship between incremental and radical innovations and competitive advantage. Supportive culture positively moderates the relationship between incremental and radical innovations and innovation speed. Moreover, supportive culture positively moderates the conditional indirect effect of incremental and radical innovation on competitive advantage through innovation speed. Theoretical and practical implications are further discussed.
Urban Tourism Appeal: The Effectiveness of Communication Channels and Multimedia Formats in Creating Tourists’ Expectations
Authors: Skočajić Ivana , Pavković Vladimir , Krstić Jelena , Kostić-Stanković Milica , Vlastelica Tamara , Rajić Tamara
Published: May 2024

Tourists’ expectations related to urban tourist destinations, which often derive from wider concept of destinations’ images, encompass a wide range of needs, desires and anticipations that tourists develop prior to visiting a particular destination. They are formed under the influence of different factors, one of which is traditional and digital communication channels. The objective of this research is to determine whether different communication channels and multimedia formats, used by tourists in the pre-travelling phase, could shape their expectations related to tangible and intangible characteristics of urban tourist destinations. The data gathering was conducted by applying Computer-Aided Web Interviewing (CAWI) on a representative sample of 312 adult citizens residing in Belgrade, the capital of the Republic of Serbia. The findings indicate that both traditional and digital communication channels, alongside personal recommendations used prior to the trip, significantly contribute to shaping respondents’ expectations concerning tangible characteristics of urban tourist destinations. Digital communication channels and personal recommendations appeared to be more important in shaping expectations related to the intangible characteristics of urban tourist destinations. Also, different formats of online media content exhibited positive associations with expectations concerning the tangible and intangible characteristics of urban tourist destinations. The obtained results provide recommendations for tourist organizations and local government entities, valuable for developing effective communication strategies for targeting potential tourists.
Chronosequence Changes of Soil Organic Carbon in Salt Marshes under Artificial Intervention: A Case Study of Hengsha Island in the Yangtze Estuary
Authors: Zhang Jing , Sha Chenyan , Li Songshuo , Wang Min , Wang Qiang , Wang Qing , Su Jinghua , Shen Cheng , Huang Shenfa
Published: May 2024

Land formation seriously disturbs coastal salt marsh wetland ecosystems, while its influences on soil organic carbon (SOC) under chronosequences remain unclear. In this study, the impacts of the land formation time (from one to fourteen years) and soil properties on the chronosequences changes of SOC in the nascent wetland of Hengsha Island were investigated. The study results showed the following. (1) As the land-formation time extended, the SOC experienced a significant increase, tripling after a period of 14 years. The changes in SOC occurred mainly in the surface layer but not in the deep soil layer. Specifically, the surface layer’s average SOC reached 5.52 g·kg−1, markedly higher than 3.17 g·kg−1 in the deeper layer. (2) Spearman correlation analysis revealed that the ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N), aboveground biomass (AGB), and soil water content (SWC) were positively correlated with the SOC. Methane emissions (CH4) and SOC exhibited a negative correlation. (3) The structural equation model (SEM) illustrated that the duration of soil deformation directly impacted the vegetation growth and affected the distribution characteristics of the SOC by modifying the soil environmental conditions. Changes in SOC following land formation influenced the rapid succession of soil properties and vegetation, with the modification of carbon sinks in the ecosystems.
A Symmetric Multiprocessor System-on-a-Chip-Based Solution for Real-Time Image Dehazing
Authors: Ngo Dat , Kang Bongsoon
Published: May 2024

The acquisition of digital images is susceptible to haze, and images captured under such adverse conditions may impact high-level applications designed for clean input data. Image dehazing emerges as a practical solution to this problem, as it can be employed to pre-process images immediately after acquisition. This paper presents a concise review of impactful algorithms, including those based on deep learning models, to identify the existing gap in real-time processing capabilities. Subsequently, a real-time dehazing system on a multiprocessor system-on-a-chip (MPSoC) platform is introduced to bridge this gap. The proposed system balances the trade-off between dehazing performance and computational complexity; hence, the name “Symmetric” is coined. Additionally, the entire system is implemented in programmable logic and wrapped by an interface circuit supporting double-buffering, rendering it highly suitable for seamless integration into existing camera systems. Implementation results on a Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC ZCU106 Evaluation Kit demonstrate a maximum operating frequency of 356.51 MHz, equivalent to a maximum processing speed of 40.27 frames per second for DCI 4K resolution.
A Modified Spectral Conjugate Gradient Method for Absolute Value Equations Associated with Second-Order Cones
Authors: Gao Leifu , Liu Zheng , Zou Jingfei , Wang Zengwei
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we propose a modified spectral conjugate gradient (MSCG) method for solving absolute value equations associated with second-order cones (SOCAVEs). Some properties of the SOCAVEs are analyzed, and the global convergence of the MSCG method is discussed in depth. Numerical experiments are given to illustrate the effectiveness and competitiveness of our algorithm.
Onthe Reducibility of a Class Nonlinear Almost Periodic Hamiltonian Systems
Authors: Xue Nina , Sun Yanmei
Published: May 2024

Inthis paper, we consider the reducibility of a class of nonlinear almost periodic Hamiltonian systems. Under suitable hypothesis of analyticity, non-resonant conditions and non-degeneracy conditions, by using KAM iteration, it is shown that the considered Hamiltonian system is reducible to an almost periodic Hamiltonian system with zero equilibrium points for most small enough parameters. As an example, we discuss the reducibility and stability of an almost periodic Hill’s equation.
The Scale-Invariant Vacuum Paradigm: Main Results and Current Progress Review (Part II)
Authors: Gueorguiev Vesselin G. , Maeder Andre
Published: May 2024

This is a summary of the main results within the Scale-Invariant Vacuum (SIV) paradigm based on Weyl integrable geometry. We also review the mathematical framework and utilize alternative derivations of the key equations based on the reparametrization invariance as well. The main results discussed are related to the early universe; that is, applications to inflation, Big Bang Nucleosynthesis, and the growth of the density fluctuations within the SIV. Some of the key SIV results for the early universe are a natural exit from inflation within the SIV in a later time texit with value related to the parameters of the inflationary potential along with the possibility for the density fluctuations to grow sufficiently fast within the SIV without the need for dark matter to seed the growth of structure in the universe. In the late-time universe, the applications of the SIV paradigm are related to scale-invariant dynamics of galaxies, MOND, dark matter, and dwarf spheroidals, where one can find MOND to be a peculiar case of the SIV theory. Finally, within the recent time epoch, we highlight that some of the change in the length-of-the-day (LOD), about 0.92 cm/yr, can be accounted for by SIV effects in the Earth–Moon system.
Cadmium Exposure: Mechanisms and Pathways of Toxicity and Implications for Human Health
Authors: Qu Fei , Zheng Weiwei
Published: May 2024

Cadmium (Cd), a prevalent environmental contaminant, exerts widespread toxic effects on human health through various biochemical and molecular mechanisms. This review encapsulates the primary pathways through which Cd inflicts damage, including oxidative stress induction, disruption of Ca2+ signaling, interference with cellular signaling pathways, and epigenetic modifications. By detailing the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of Cd, alongside its interactions with cellular components such as mitochondria and DNA, this paper highlights the extensive damage caused by Cd2+ at the cellular and tissue levels. The role of Cd in inducing oxidative stress—a pivotal mechanism behind its toxicity—is discussed with emphasis on how it disrupts the balance between oxidants and antioxidants, leading to cellular damage and apoptosis. Additionally, the review covers Cd’s impact on signaling pathways like Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK), Nuclear Factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and Tumor Protein 53 (p53) pathways, illustrating how its interference with these pathways contributes to pathological conditions and carcinogenesis. The epigenetic effects of Cd, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, are also explored to explain its long-term impact on gene expression and disease manifestation. This comprehensive analysis not only elucidates the mechanisms of Cd toxicity but also underscores the critical need for enhanced strategies to mitigate its public health implications.
Revitalizing the Gut Microbiome in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Comprehensive Exploration of the Therapeutic Potential of Physical Activity
Authors: Vandecruys Marieke , De Smet Stefan , De Beir Jasmine , Renier Marie , Leunis Sofie , Van Criekinge Hanne , Glorieux Griet , Raes Jeroen , Vanden Wyngaert Karsten , Nagler Evi , Calders Patrick , Monbaliu Diethard , Cornelissen Véronique , Evenepoel Pieter , Van Craenenbroeck Amaryllis H.
Published: May 2024

Both physical inactivity and disruptions in the gut microbiome appear to be prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Engaging in physical activity could present a novel nonpharmacological strategy for enhancing the gut microbiome and mitigating the adverse effects associated with microbial dysbiosis in individuals with CKD. This narrative review explores the underlying mechanisms through which physical activity may favorably modulate microbial health, either through direct impact on the gut or through interorgan crosstalk. Also, the development of microbial dysbiosis and its interplay with physical inactivity in patients with CKD are discussed. Mechanisms and interventions through which physical activity may restore gut homeostasis in individuals with CKD are explored.
Retrospective Evaluation of Clinical and Clinicopathologic Findings, Case Management, and Outcome for Dogs and Cats Exposed to Micrurus fulvius (Eastern Coral Snake): 92 Cases (2021–2022)
Authors: Sullivan Jordan M. , Aasen Taelor L. , Fisher Corey J. , Schaer Michael
Published: May 2024

This retrospective, observational study describes the clinical findings, case management trends, and outcomes of 83 dogs and nine cats exposed to eastern coral snakes in a university teaching hospital setting. The medical records of dogs and cats that received antivenom following coral snake exposure were reviewed. Data collected included signalment, time to antivenom administration, physical and laboratory characteristics at presentation, clinical course during hospitalization, length of hospitalization, and survival to discharge. The mean time from presentation to coral snake antivenom administration was 2.26 ± 1.46 h. Excluding cases where the owner declined in-hospital care, the mean hospitalization time for dogs and cats was 50.8 h and 34 h, respectively. The mean number of antivenom vials was 1.29 (1–4). Gastrointestinal signs (vomiting and ptyalism) occurred in 42.2% (35/83) of dogs and 33.3% (3/9) of cats. Peripheral neurologic system deficits (ataxia, paresis to plegia, absent reflexes, and hypoventilation) were noted in 19.6% (18/92) of dogs and cats. Hemolysis was also common in 37.9% (25/66) of dogs but was not observed in cats. Mechanical ventilation (MV) was indicated in 12% (10/83) of dogs but no cats. Acute kidney injury (AKI), while rare, was a common cause of euthanasia at 20% (2/5) and was the most common complication during MV at 44.4% (4/9). Pigmenturia/hemolysis occurred in 88.9% (8/9) of MV cases and in all cases with AKI. Despite delays in antivenom administration by several hours, dogs and cats with coral snake exposure have low mortality rates (6% of dogs (5/83) and 0% of cats). Gastrointestinal signs were common but were not predictive of progression to neurological signs. Thus, differentiating between coral snake exposure and envenomation before the onset of neurological signs remains challenging.
α-Latrotoxin Tetramers Spontaneously Form Two-Dimensional Crystals in Solution and Coordinated Multi-Pore Assemblies in Biological Membranes
Authors: Rohou Alexis , Morris Edward P. , Makarova Julia , Tonevitsky Alexander G. , Ushkaryov Yuri A.
Published: May 2024

α-Latrotoxin (α-LTX) was found to form two-dimensional (2D) monolayer arrays in solution at relatively low concentrations (0.1 mg/mL), with the toxin tetramer constituting a unit cell. The crystals were imaged using cryogenic electron microscopy (cryoEM), and image analysis yielded a ~12 Å projection map. At this resolution, no major conformational changes between the crystalline and solution states of α-LTX tetramers were observed. Electrophysiological studies showed that, under the conditions of crystallization, α-LTX simultaneously formed multiple channels in biological membranes that displayed coordinated gating. Two types of channels with conductance levels of 120 and 208 pS were identified. Furthermore, we observed two distinct tetramer conformations of tetramers both when observed as monodisperse single particles and within the 2D crystals, with pore diameters of 11 and 13.5 Å, suggestive of a flickering pore in the middle of the tetramer, which may correspond to the two states of toxin channels with different conductance levels. We discuss the structural changes that occur in α-LTX tetramers in solution and propose a mechanism of α-LTX insertion into the membrane. The propensity of α-LTX tetramers to form 2D crystals may explain many features of α-LTX toxicology and suggest that other pore-forming toxins may also form arrays of channels to exert maximal toxic effect.
Calibration Error in 21-Centimeter Global Spectrum Experiment
Authors: Sun Shijie , de Lera Acedo Eloy , Wu Fengquan , Yue Bin , Zhu Jiacong , Chen Xuelei
Published: May 2024

The redshifted 21 cm line signal is a powerful probe of the cosmic dawn and the epoch of reionization. The global spectrum can potentially be detected with a single antenna and spectrometer. However, this measurement requires an extremely accurate calibration of the instrument to facilitate the separation of the 21 cm signal from the much brighter foregrounds and possible variations in the instrument response. Understanding how the measurement errors propagate in a realistic instrument system and affect system calibration is the focus of this work. We simulate a 21 cm global spectrum observation based on the noise wave calibration scheme. We focus on how measurement errors in reflection coefficients affect the noise temperature and how typical errors impact the recovery of the 21 cm signal, especially in the frequency domain. Results show that for our example set up, a typical vector network analyzer (VNA) measurement error in the magnitude of the reflection coefficients of the antenna, receiver, and open cable, which are 0.001, 0.001, and 0.002 (linear), respectively, would result in a 200 mK deviation on the detected signal, and a typical measurement error of 0.48°, 0.78°, or 0.15° in the respective phases would cause a 40 mK deviation. The VNA measurement error can greatly affect the result of a 21 cm global spectrum experiment using this calibration technique, and such a feature could be mistaken for or be combined with the 21 cm signal.
3-Chymotrypsin-like Protease (3CLpro) of SARS-CoV-2: Validation as a Molecular Target, Proposal of a Novel Catalytic Mechanism, and Inhibitors in Preclinical and Clinical Trials
Authors: Amorim Vitor Martins de Freitas , Soares Eduardo Pereira , Ferrari Anielle Salviano de Almeida , Merighi Davi Gabriel Salustiano , de Souza Robson Francisco , Guzzo Cristiane Rodrigues , Souza Anacleto Silva de
Published: May 2024

Proteases represent common targets in combating infectious diseases, including COVID-19. The 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) is a validated molecular target for COVID-19, and it is key for developing potent and selective inhibitors for inhibiting viral replication of SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we discuss structural relationships and diverse subsites of 3CLpro, shedding light on the pivotal role of dimerization and active site architecture in substrate recognition and catalysis. Our analysis of bioinformatics and other published studies motivated us to investigate a novel catalytic mechanism for the SARS-CoV-2 polyprotein cleavage by 3CLpro, centering on the triad mechanism involving His41-Cys145-Asp187 and its indispensable role in viral replication. Our hypothesis is that Asp187 may participate in modulating the pKa of the His41, in which catalytic histidine may act as an acid and/or a base in the catalytic mechanism. Recognizing Asp187 as a crucial component in the catalytic process underscores its significance as a fundamental pharmacophoric element in drug design. Next, we provide an overview of both covalent and non-covalent inhibitors, elucidating advancements in drug development observed in preclinical and clinical trials. By highlighting various chemical classes and their pharmacokinetic profiles, our review aims to guide future research directions toward the development of highly selective inhibitors, underscore the significance of 3CLpro as a validated therapeutic target, and propel the progression of drug candidates through preclinical and clinical phases.
A Decade-Long Cohort Analysis of Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV)-Induced Early and Late Renal Rejection in Post-Transplant Patients in the Eastern Indian Population
Authors: Roy Debsopan , Chatterjee Aroni , Pal Atanu , Chatterjee Rajendra Prasad , Chakraborty Nilanjan
Published: May 2024

Background: HCMV causes severe clinical complications in transplant recipients and may lead to graft rejection. Successful renal transplantation heavily relies on the early prevention and diagnosis of CMV infections, followed by prompt prophylactic treatment before transplantation. Despite the majority of renal rejection cases with acute HCMV infections being asymptomatic and occurring one to two years later, the objective of this research was to comprehend the effect of late HCMV infection on renal rejection by examining specific clinical parameters in the Eastern Indian cohort. Method: In this study, 240 patients were studied for five years following transplantation, and their data were collected from the local metropolitan hospital in Eastern India. Both HCMV-positive and -negative post-transplant patients were investigated using the clinical parameters and viral loads for latent infection. Results: Within the studied population, 79 post-transplant patients were found to be HCMV positive. Among them, 13 (16.45%) patients suffered from renal rejection within less than 2 yrs. of transplantation (early rejection) and 22 (27.84%) patients suffered from renal rejection after 2 yrs. from the operation date (late rejection). Assessment of clinical parameters with respect to HCMV infection revealed that in early rejection cases, fever (p-0.035) and urinary tract infection (p-0.017) were prominent, but in late rejection, hematuria (p-0.032), diabetes (p-0.005), and creatinine level changes (p < 0.001) were significant along with urinary tract infection (p-0.047). Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into monitoring latent CMV infections and highlights the understanding of reducing renal rejection rates and the need for further research in this field.
Premature Activation of the HIV-1 Protease Is Influenced by Polymorphisms in the Hinge Region
Authors: Tabler Caroline O. , Wegman Sarah J. , Alhusaini Najwa , Lee Nicole F. , Tilton John C.
Published: May 2024

HIV-1 protease inhibitors are an essential component of antiretroviral therapy. However, drug resistance is a pervasive issue motivating a persistent search for novel therapies. Recent reports found that when protease activates within the host cell’s cytosol, it facilitates the pyroptotic killing of infected cells. This has led to speculation that promoting protease activation, rather than inhibiting it, could help to eradicate infected cells and potentially cure HIV-1 infection. Here, we used a nanoscale flow cytometry-based assay to characterize protease resistance mutations and polymorphisms. We quantified protease activity, viral concentration, and premature protease activation and confirmed previous findings that major resistance mutations generally destabilize the protease structure. Intriguingly, we found evidence that common polymorphisms in the hinge domain of protease can influence its susceptibility to premature activation. This suggests that viral heterogeneity could pose a considerable challenge for therapeutic strategies aimed at inducing premature protease activation in the future.
Whole-Genome Sequencing and Genetic Diversity of Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Patients with Influenza-like Illness in Sicily (Italy) from 2017 to 2023
Authors: Tramuto Fabio , Maida Carmelo Massimo , Randazzo Giulia , Guzzetta Valeria , Santino Arianna , Li Muli Rita , Costantino Claudio , Graziano Giorgio , Amodio Emanuele , Mazzucco Walter , Vitale Francesco
Published: May 2024

Monitoring the genetic variability of human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) is of paramount importance, especially for the potential implication of key antigenic mutations on the emergence of immune escape variants. Thus, to describe the genetic diversity and evolutionary dynamics of hRSV circulating in Sicily (Italy), a total of 153 hRSV whole-genome sequences collected from 770 hRSV-positive subjects between 2017 and 2023, before the introduction of expanded immunization programs into the population, were investigated. The phylogenetic analyses indicated that the genotypes GA.2.3.5 (ON1) for hRSV-A and GB.5.0.5a (BA9) for hRSV-B co-circulated in our region. Amino acid (AA) substitutions in the surface and internal proteins were evaluated, including the F protein antigenic sites, as the major targets of immunoprophylactic monoclonal antibodies and vaccines. Overall, the proportion of AA changes ranged between 1.5% and 22.6% among hRSV-A, whereas hRSV-B varied in the range 0.8–16.9%; the latter was more polymorphic than hRSV-A within the key antigenic sites. No AA substitutions were found at site III of both subgroups. Although several non-synonymous mutations were found, none of the polymorphisms known to potentially affect the efficacy of current preventive measures were documented. These findings provide new insights into the global hRSV molecular epidemiology and highlight the importance of defining a baseline genomic picture to monitor for future changes that might be induced by the selective pressures of immunological preventive measures, which will soon become widely available.
Detection of SARS-CoV-2-Specific Secretory IgA and Neutralizing Antibodies in the Nasal Secretions of Exposed Seronegative Individuals
Authors: Chwa Jason S. , Kim Minjun , Lee Yesun , Cheng Wesley A. , Shin Yunho , Jumarang Jaycee , Bender Jeffrey M. , Pannaraj Pia S.
Published: May 2024

Mucosal immunity may contribute to clearing SARS-CoV-2 infection prior to systemic infection, thereby allowing hosts to remain seronegative. We describe the meaningful detection of SARS-CoV-2-specific nasal mucosal antibodies in a group of exposed-household individuals that evaded systemic infection. Between June 2020 and February 2023, nasopharyngeal swab (NPS) and acute and convalescent blood were collected from individuals exposed to a SARS-CoV-2-confirmed household member. Nasal secretory IgA (SIgA) antibodies targeting the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein were measured using a modified ELISA. Of the 36 exposed individuals without SARS-CoV-2 detected by the RT-PCR of NPS specimens and seronegative for SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG at enrollment and convalescence, 13 (36.1%) had positive SARS-CoV-2-specific SIgA levels detected in the nasal mucosa at enrollment. These individuals had significantly higher nasal SIgA (median 0.52 AU/mL) compared with never-exposed, never-infected controls (0.001 AU/mL) and infected-family participants (0.0002 AU/mL) during the acute visit, respectively (both p < 0.001). The nasal SARS-CoV-2-specific SIgA decreased rapidly over two weeks in the exposed seronegative individuals compared to a rise in SIgA in infected-family members. The nasal SARS-CoV-2-specific SIgA may have a protective role in preventing systemic infection.
A Combined LC-MS and Immunoassay Approach to Characterize Preservative-Induced Destabilization of Human Papillomavirus Virus-like Particles Adsorbed to an Aluminum-Salt Adjuvant
Authors: Caringal Ria T. , Hickey John M. , Sharma Nitya , Jerajani Kaushal , Bewaji Oluwadara , Brendle Sarah , Christensen Neil , Batwal Saurabh , Mahedvi Mustafa , Rao Harish , Dogar Vikas , Chandrasekharan Rahul , Shaligram Umesh , Joshi Sangeeta B. , Volkin David B.
Published: May 2024

During the multi-dose formulation development of recombinant vaccine candidates, protein antigens can be destabilized by antimicrobial preservatives (APs). The degradation mechanisms are often poorly understood since available analytical tools are limited due to low protein concentrations and the presence of adjuvants. In this work, we evaluate different analytical approaches to monitor the structural integrity of HPV16 VLPs adsorbed to Alhydrogel™ (AH) in the presence and absence of APs (i.e., destabilizing m-cresol, MC, or non-destabilizing chlorobutanol, CB) under accelerated conditions (pH 7.4, 50 °C). First, in vitro potency losses displayed only modest correlations with the results from two commonly used methods of protein analysis (SDS-PAGE, DSC). Next, results from two alternative analytical approaches provided a better understanding of physicochemical events occurring under these same conditions: (1) competitive ELISA immunoassays with a panel of mAbs against conformational and linear epitopes on HPV16 VLPs and (2) LC-MS peptide mapping to evaluate the accessibility/redox state of the 12 cysteine residues within each L1 protein comprising the HPV16 VLP (i.e., with 360 L1 proteins per VLP, there are 4320 Cys residues per VLP). These methods expand the limited analytical toolset currently available to characterize AH-adsorbed antigens and provide additional insights into the molecular mechanism(s) of AP-induced destabilization of vaccine antigens.
Optimization, Design, and Manufacturing of New Steel-FRP Automotive Fuel Cell Medium Pressure Plate Using Compression Molding
Authors: Anand Sharath Christy , Mielke Florian , Heidrich Daniel , Fang Xiangfan
Published: May 2024

In this work, a new plastic-intensive medium-pressure plate (MPP), which is part of a fuel-cell system, has been developed together with a steel plate meeting all mechanical and chemical requirements. This newly developed MPP had to achieve the objective of saving weight and package space. The use of compression molding as a manufacturing technique facilitated the use of glass mat thermoplastics (GMT) which has higher E-modules and strength compared to most of the injection molded materials. A steel plate was placed as an insert to help achieve the stiffness requirements. For the development, the existing MPP was benchmarked for its structural capabilities and its underlying functional features. Four different FRP materials were investigated in terms of their chemical and mechanical properties. PP-GMT material, which has both high mechanical performance and resistance against chemicals in the fuel cell fluid, had been chosen. Using the properties of the chosen PP-GMT material, topology optimization was carried out based on the quasi-static load case and manufacturing constraints, which gave a load-conforming rib structure. The obtained rib structure was utilized to develop the final MPP with adherence to the functional requirements of MPP. The developed plastic-intensive MPP exhibits a 3-in-1 component feature with a 55% reduction in package space and an 8% weight reduction. The MPP was virtually analyzed for its mechanical strength and compared with the existing benchmark values. Finally, a press tool was conceptualized and manufactured to fabricate the new plastic-intensive MPP, which was tested in a rig and validated in the FE model.