bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Integrated Approach to the Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Genotoxic Potential of Portuguese Traditional Preparations from the Bark of Anacardium occidentale L.
Authors: Encarnação Sofia , Lima Katelene , Malú Quintino , Caldeira Gonçalo I. , Duarte Maria Paula , Rocha João , Lima Beatriz Silva , Silva Olga
Published: January 2024

Anacardium occidentale L. stem bark Traditional Herbal Preparations (AoBTHPs) are widely used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory conditions, such as diabetes. The present study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and genotoxic potential of red and white Portuguese AoBTHPs. Using a carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model, a significant anti-edema effect was observed for all tested doses of white AoBTHP (40.2, 71.5, and 127.0 mg/kg) and the two highest doses of red AoB THP (71.5 and 127.0 mg/kg). The anti-edema effect of red AoBTHP’s highest dose was much more effective than indomethacin 10 mg/kg, Trolox 30 mg/kg, and Tempol 30 mg/kg. In DPPH, FRAP, and TAC using the phosphomolybdenum method, both types of AoBTHPs showed similar antioxidant activity and no genotoxicity up to 5000 µg/plate in the Ames test. The LC-UV/DAD-ESI/MS fingerprint allowed the identification of gallic and protocatechuic acids as the two main marker compounds and the presence of catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin gallate, and ellagic acid in both AoBTHPs. The obtained results support the validation of red and white AoB and their THPs as anti-inflammatory agents and contribute to the possible development of promising new therapeutic options to treat inflammatory conditions.
The Orophilous Shrubby Vegetation of the Juniperetalia hemisphaericae Order in Sicily: A Refuge Habitat for Many Endemic Vascular Species
Authors: Sciandrello Saverio , Giusso del Galdo Gianpietro
Published: January 2024

An in-depth analysis of the orophilous vegetation dominated by Juniperus hemisphaerica in Sicily, based on literature data and unpublished relevés, is presented. A total of 156 phytosociological relevés were processed and analyzed using classification and ordination methods. Overall, 151 vascular plant species were recorded, of which 38% were endemic species, with a dominant hemicryptophytic biological form (49%). Classification of the relevés, supported by ordination, showed two main vegetation groups: one including the Juniperus communities of Mt. Madonie (Cerastio tomentosi–Juniperetum hemisphaericae and Pruno cupanianae–Juniperetum hemisphaericae), and the other including the vegetation of Mt. Etna (Bellardiochloo aetnensis–Juniperetum hemisphaericae and Roso siculae–Juniperetum hemisphaericae ass. nova). Furthermore, a new alliance, Berberido aetnensis–Juniperion hemisphericae, is proposed for Sicily.
Newly Developed Restorer Lines of Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] Resistant to Greenbug
Authors: Radchenko Evgeny E. , Anisimova Irina N. , Ryazanova Maria K. , Kibkalo Ilya A. , Alpatieva Natalia V.
Published: January 2024

Eight lines of grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], which can be used as a promising source material in heterotic hybrid breeding as pollen fertility restorers and donors of resistance to the greenbug (Schizaphis graminum Rondani), are characterized. The new restorer lines (R-lines) were developed by crossing the maternal sterile line Nizkorosloe 81s (CMS A1) with two lines selected from the grain sorghum collection accessions VIR-928 and VIR-929 as the paternal forms. The R-lines were genotyped using PCR markers, and also characterized by height, duration of the seedling–flowering period, and some of the technological properties of flour. With the use of microsatellite markers linked to the Rf genes and by hybridological analysis, it was shown that the new lines carry the dominant allele of the gene Rf2. The PCoA analysis demonstrated clear differences of each R-line from the parents. The genotypes of the new lines and their parental forms for the Rf2 locus were confirmed by applying three allele-specific codominant CAPS markers which detected SNPs in the candidate Rf2 gene. All new lines were highly fertile, as demonstrated by cytological analysis of acetocarmine-stained pollen preparations. A high resistance to the greenbug was demonstrated for each new R-line both in the laboratory and field conditions against a severe aphid infestation. Grain quality parameters such as protein content and dough rheological properties varied widely and were quite satisfactory in some R-lines. Characteristics common to all eight sorghum lines studied, such as the ability to restore pollen fertility in the F1 generation, good pollen quality, greenbug resistance, early ripening, spreading panicle, and low stature, allow us to recommend them for producing commercial F1 hybrids with satisfactory grain quality for both fodder and food purposes.
Cholesteric Liquid Crystals with Thermally Stable Reflection Color from Mixtures of Completely Etherified Ethyl Cellulose Derivative and Methacrylic Acid
Authors: Matsumoto Kazuma , Iwata Naoto , Furumi Seiichi
Published: January 2024

Cellulose derivatives have attracted attention as environmentally friendly materials that can exhibit a cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) phase with visible light reflection. Previous reports have shown that the chemical structures and the degrees of substitution of cellulose derivatives have significant influence on their reflection properties. Although many studies have been reported on CLC using ethyl cellulose (EC) derivatives in which the hydroxy groups are esterified, there have been no studies on EC derivatives with etherified side chains. In this article, we optimized the Williamson ether synthesis to introduce pentyl ether groups in the EC side chain. The degree of substitution with pentyl ether group (DSPe), confirmed via 1H-NMR spectroscopic measurements, was controlled using the solvent and the base concentration in this synthesis. All the etherified EC derivatives were soluble in methacrylic acid (MAA), allowing for the preparation of lyotropic CLCs with visible reflection. Although the reflection peak of lyotropic CLCs generally varies with temperature, the reflection peak of lyotropic CLCs of completely etherified EC derivatives with MAA could almost be preserved in the temperature range from 30 to 110 °C even without the aid of any crosslinking. Such thermal stability of the reflection peak of CLCs may be greatly advantageous for fabricating new photonic devices with eco-friendliness.
A Gender Analysis of Hospital Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic Using the Distress Questionnaire-5: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: De Simone Stefania , Franco Massimo , Servillo Giuseppe , Vargas Maria
Published: January 2024

At high risk of experiencing symptoms of stress, female healthcare workers also faced the psychosocial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aims of this study are to investigate whether women are associated with a high level of psychological distress in comparison to men and to explore the risk factors associated with a high level of psychological distress in women. For this purpose, a multivariable logistic regression model was tested with sex, age and professional role as predictors of psychological distress in women. We found that (1)women working in the four Italian hospitals analyzed during the COVID-19 pandemic experienced more psychological distress than men, (2) being between 26 and 35 years old and being a medical doctor were associated with the risk of women developing psychological distress, (3) being a female medical doctor presents a 23% risk of developing psychological distress, (4) female nurses working in COVID-19s ward had a 50% risk and female non-healthcare personnel working in COVID-19 wards had a 69% risk of developing psychological distress. In conclusion, our results suggest that interventions for supporting and promoting mental well-being among female healthcare workers are mandatory, especially for the professional categories of nurses and non-healthcare workers.
Emotions and Coping: “What I Feel about It, Gives Me More Strategies to Deal with It?”
Authors: de Sousa Cristina , Vinagre Helena , Viseu João , Ferreira João , José Helena , Rabiais Isabel , Almeida António , Valido Susana , Santos Maria João , Severino Sandy , Sousa Luís
Published: January 2024

Background: Personal emotions and affects have been identified and studied in the context of pandemics, as well as coping strategies centered on emotional regulation or the balance between positive and negative emotions. Objectives: The objectives of this paper are to identify an emotion and affect structure in our sample and analyze the relationship of these dimensions with resilient coping in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: This study employed a cross-sectional design that involved a non-probabilistic sample with 598 participants over the age of 18, with 51.1% being female, and an average age of 40.73 years. First, the emotional structure was identified through principal component analysis (PCA). Secondly, a linear regression analysis was performed to investigate emotional dimensions as predictors of coping. Results: A valid and reliable emotional structure with four dimensions was identified. The regression model revealed that coping is positively associated with the active and positive dimension and negatively correlated with the negative and moral dimensions. Conclusions: Emotional dimensions are predictors of coping, with moral and negative dimensions having a negative effect, while active and positive dimensions have a positive effect. When designing interventions for coping strategies, multiple dimensions of emotions and affective states in people who are in vulnerable situations must be considered.
Religious and Ethical Conception of Xiao-Filiality in Pre-Imperial China
Authors: Jia Jinhua
Published: January 2024

Xiao-filiality is the most fundamental concept in the Chinese intellectual-cultural tradition. It represents not only family values but also religious, political and ethical ideologies. The conception of xiao, which originally denoted the meanings of presenting offerings to deceased ancestors and inheriting their legacy in the Shang dynasty, went through two stages of evolution from the early Zhou dynasty to the Warring States period. In the first stage, xiao was extended to ethical domain with the humanistic turn from human-spirit relationship to human-human relationship. Xiao was not only expanded to the empirical exercise of serving living parents but also established as a ritual-ethical norm that defined people’s familial, social, and hierarchical role duties and regulated their conducts of dealing with interpersonal relationships. As a result, the religious authority of paranormal ancestral spirits was transferred to the social-political authority who enforced the implement of the ritual-ethical norm of xiao. In the second stage, Confucius and his followers on the one hand recognized the importance of compliance with this prescribed ritual-ethical norm, and on the other internalized it to become the individual agent’s moral emotion and free choice. Consequently, the social-political authority was further transferred to the internal authority of moral autonomy.
On the Adoption of Smart Home Technology in Switzerland: Results from a Survey Study Focusing on Prevention and Active Healthy Aging Aspects
Authors: Iten Raphael , Wagner Joël , Zeier Röschmann Angela
Published: January 2024

Smart home (SH) technologies offer advancements in comfort, energy management, health, and safety. There is increasing interest in technology-enabled home services from scholars and professionals, particularly to meet the needs of a growing aging population. Yet, current research focuses on assisted living scenarios developed for elderly individuals with health impairments, and neglects to explore the potential of SHs in prevention. We aim to improve comprehension and guide future research on the value of SH technology for risk prevention with a survey assessing the adoption of SHs by older adults based on novel ad hoc collected data. Our survey is based on the theoretical background derived from the extant body of literature. In addition to established adoption factors and user characteristics, it includes previously unexamined elements such as active and healthy aging parameters, risk and insurance considerations, and social and hedonic dimensions. Descriptive results and regression analyses indicate that a vast majority of individuals acknowledge the preventive benefits of SHs. Additionally, we observe that individuals with higher levels of social activity, technology affinity, and knowledge of SHs tend to report greater interest. Moreover, perceived enjoyment and perceived risk emerge as central elements for SH adoption. Our research indicates that considering lifestyle factors when examining technology adoption and emphasizing the preventive benefits present possibilities for both future studies and practical implementations.
Understanding the Mobilities of Indigenous Migrant Youth across the Americas
Authors: Gil-García Óscar F. , Akalin Nilüfer , Bové Francesca , Vener Sarah
Published: January 2024

Enhanced immigration enforcement measures are now a dominant practice throughout the world. The concept of transnationalism, used by scholars to illuminate the complex dynamics these measures have across nation-state borders, has been critiqued for its replication of methodological nationalism—the assumption that the nation-state is a natural social and political form of the modern world. How then can migration scholars deepen the understanding of the mobilities of migrant children and youth without replicating methodological nationalism? We propose a relational socio-cultural analytic that synthesizes settler colonial theory and the theory of racialized legal status to comprehend the complex experiences of Indigenous migrant Maya youth and families throughout the Americas. Our use of a relational critical comparative analysis challenges structural functionalist approaches that limit the study migration dynamics within nation-state contexts, which can unwittingly sustain national membership in a state(s) as an aspirational emblem of belonging. We explore how Indigenous Maya experience and challenge the meaning of statelessness and the spillover effects of immigration enforcement measures along the US–Mexico and Mexico–Guatemala borders. We argue that a relational socio-cultural analytic lens serves as a powerful tool for understanding how nation-states co-produce stateless Indigenous populations and how these populations persist throughout the Americas and the world.
Impact of Fracture–Seepage–Stress Coupling on the Sustainability and Durability of Concrete: A Triaxial Seepage and Mechanical Strength Analysis
Authors: Shi Zhuolin , Wu Chengle , Wang Furong , Li Xuehua , Shan Changhao , Xu Yingnan
Published: January 2024

As an indispensable material in construction and engineering, concrete’s mechanical properties and permeability are crucial for structures’ stability and durability. In order to reasonably assess and improve the durability of fracture-containing concrete structures and to enhance the sustainable working life of concrete structures, this research investigated the seepage characteristics of fracture-containing concrete and its mechanical property deterioration under fracture–seepage coupling by testing the permeability and strength of concrete samples before and after water penetration using triaxial seepage test and mechanical strength test. The results show that the fracture–seepage coupling action significantly affects the permeability characteristics and mechanical strength of fracture-containing concrete. In particular, the strength of concrete samples containing a single fracture decreased with increased fracture angle, with a maximum decrease of 32.8%. The fracture–seepage–stress coupling significantly reduced the strength of the fracture-containing concrete samples, which was about twice as much as the strength of the no-fracture concrete samples. Different fracture angles affect the mode of fracture expansion and damage (The fracture angle varies from small to large, and the damage form of concrete changes from tensile damage to tensile–shear composite damage). Moreover, the coupling effect of fracture–seepage–stress will further increase fracture-containing concrete’s fragmentation in the damage process. Therefore, improving the seepage and fracture resistance of concrete plays a vital role in improving the sustainable working life of concrete structures.
Evaluation of Technological Properties of Mortars with the Addition of Plaster Byproduct
Authors: Ribeiro Carolina Gomes Dias , de Castro Xavier Gustavo , da Silva Barroso Laimara , Vieira Carlos Mauricio Fontes , Monteiro Sergio Neves , de Azevedo Afonso Rangel Garcez
Published: January 2024

The incorporation of waste into construction materials is a potential topic for study and is seen as a solution for many industries that face the following impasse: the risk to the environment due to the accumulation of waste in yards. In view of this, during the production of lactic acid, which is widely used in industries, gypsum is produced as a byproduct, yielding one ton for each ton of lactic acid. Aiming at a functional destination for this byproduct, this study proposes its addition in mortars for covering walls and ceilings. The research proposal was a mortar in a 1:6 ratio (cement:sand) with the addition of 0, 3, 6 and 10% of industrial plaster byproduct. The cement used to prepare the mortar was CPII-E32. To characterize the raw materials, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence and X-ray diffraction analysis were carried out. To evaluate the properties in the fresh state, a consistency index and mass density and entrained air tests were carried out. In the hardened state, mass density, axial compression strength, flexural tensile strength and water absorption via capillarity were evaluated after 28 days of age. Microstructural characterization techniques were also carried out on the reference mixtures and with 3% addition of the byproduct gypsum, such as scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The results showed that the byproduct is hemihydrate and its addition improved the workability of the mortar. Mortars with the addition of byproduct gypsum showed a reduction in mechanical resistance. The most satisfactory results were for the mixes with a 3% addition, indicating greater resistance to axial compression and flexural traction, with 3.90 MPa and 1.14 MPa, respectively.
Effect of Digital Transformation on Firm Performance in the Uncertain Environment: Transformational Leadership and Employee Self-Efficacy as Antecedents of Digital Transformation
Authors: Gun Levent , Imamoglu Salih Zeki , Turkcan Hulya , Ince Huseyin
Published: January 2024

As the functioning of firms has been changing, the digital transformation process is becoming inevitable for all firms. Therefore, scholars and managers pay great attention to this topic. However, there are still significant gaps about its human-related antecedents, and existing studies on its effects on firm outcomes have presented contradictory findings. By addressing these gaps in the literature, this study examines the effect of transformational leadership and employee self-efficacy as human-related antecedents of digital transformation and also its impact on firm performance. Data were collected from 305 participants who are managers in the manufacturing sector. The findings indicate that both transformational leadership and employee self-efficacy are positively related to digital transformation. Results also reveal that digital transformation is associated with operational and financial performance, and that environmental uncertainty strengthens its relationship with financial performance. This research, therefore, contributes to digital transformation literature, deepens the current knowledge, and offers novel and comprehensive insight, by addressing the gaps in the literature.
Sustainable Last-Mile Logistics in Economics Studies: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Bertolini Marina , De Matteis Giulia , Nava Alessandro
Published: January 2024

In recent years, many cities throughout the world are facing the impact of last-mile logistics and the resulting rise in urban traffic and pollution. Effects on the environment have been curbed by these dynamics. Urban traffic has a considerable impact in terms of noise emissions, road safety and air pollution: hence, both public and private parties should undertake innovative solutions for reducing the negative effects of last-mile logistics and improving their operational effectiveness. This study aims to provide a systematic literature review of studies having as their main topic environmentally sustainable last-mile logistics with the perspective of economic studies. The review of the literature reveals that the majority of recent studies have been based on engineering and urban planning approaches. Costs and benefits of last-mile logistics are approached with a public economics focus, gathering details from the different papers, starting with the business studies and then exploring the technology-oriented ones. This study aims to detect the different topics and policies discussed in the literature, and it suggests how to incorporate them in creating new measures and policies for last-mile logistics in the urban area, or for revamping current ones.
A Study on a New 5S Model of Decent Work Perception
Authors: Yan Yan , Gao Juan , Jiang Xinying , Geng Yuqing , Lin Enzhong
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Decent work promotes decent and productive work opportunities for all genders under conditions of freedom, equality, safety, and human dignity. Despite the growing body of literature on this concept, decent work perception (DWP) measurement still needs to be improved. Although the literature provides several measurement tools for DWP, only some studies focus on knowledge works. This study aims to provide an original, valid, and reliable measure of DWP reflecting the knowledge workers’ perception of decent work. Problem: Based on a proposed conceptual framework of DWP, a scale was developed through a systematic scale development process. Methodology: In this study, an exploratory survey is conducted to generate codes using in-depth interviews. A pilot study is used to generate and select items for the DWP scale. An exploratory factor analysis is conducted to determine the underlying factor structure of the scale. Data are collected from 869 knowledge workers in China in the formal survey. Results: The analysis provides a five-dimensional structure of DWP with 15 items, including security, support, self-value, skills, and self-esteem. Implications: Our work expands research on decent work and adds to the broader area of knowledge workers. By developing a scale of DWP, our research has practical implications in theory and practice.
Circular Bioeconomy in the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona: Policy Recommendations to Optimize Biowaste Management
Authors: Meisterl Karin , Sastre Sergio , Puig-Ventosa Ignasi , Chifari Rosaria , Martínez Sánchez Laura , Chochois Laurène , Fiorentino Gabriella , Zucaro Amalia
Published: January 2024

Municipal biowaste management is at the core of the transition towards a circular bioeconomy in the EU. However, most urban systems are still far from being aligned with these principles. This paper addresses the case of the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona. The current system of biowaste management is compared with a more sustainable alternative scenario. Regulatory and non-regulatory drivers and barriers for the transition from the current state to the alternative scenario are identified and later transformed into policy recommendations using a multi-stakeholder approach. This paper focuses on the separate collection of biowaste and the production of biomethane. Increasing the quantity and quality of separate biowaste collection is a prerequisite for the market-relevant production of biogas from anaerobic digestion that can be converted into biomethane. The results show that more efficient collection systems such as door-to-door or smart bins together with tax incentives such as the pay-as-you-throw principle are key to increasing the amount of collected biowaste, while targeted communication combined with controls and penalties are key to minimizing impurities. In addition to financial incentives for the construction of new anaerobic digestion plants, financial incentive systems are also required for the biomethane sector to ensure competitiveness with fossil fuels.
Bacterial Diversity in Old Hydrocarbon Polluted Sediments of Ecuadorian Amazon River Basins
Authors: Corral-García Lara S. , Molina María Carmen , Bautista Luis Fernando , Simarro Raquel , Espinosa Carlos Iván , Gorines-Cordero Guillermo , González-Benítez Natalia
Published: January 2024

The Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest stands out as one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, yet faces significant threats due to oil extraction activities dating back to the 1970s in the northeastern provinces. This research investigates the environmental and societal consequences of prolonged petroleum exploitation and oil spills in Ecuador’s Amazon. Conducted in June 2015, the study involved a comprehensive analysis of freshwater sediment samples from 24 locations in the Rio Aguarico and Napo basins. Parameters such as water and air temperature, conductivity, soil pH, and hydrocarbon concentrations were examined. Total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations ranged from 9.4 to 847.4 mg kg−1, with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels varying from 10.15 to 711.1 mg kg−1. The pristane/phytane ratio indicated historic hydrocarbon pollution in 8 of the 15 chemically analyzed sediments. Using non-culturable techniques (Illumina), bacterial analyses identified over 350 ASV, with prominent families including Comamonadaceae, Chitinophagaceae, Anaeromyxobacteraceae, Sphingomonadaceae, and Xanthobacteraceae. Bacterial diversity, assessed in eight samples, exhibited a positive correlation with PAH concentrations. The study provides insights into how microbial communities respond to varying levels of hydrocarbon pollution, shedding light on the enduring impact of oil exploitation in the Amazonian region. Its objective is to deepen our understanding of the environmental and human well-being in the affected area, underscoring the pressing need for remedial actions in the face of ongoing ecological challenges.
Anthelmintic Effect of Cannabidiol against Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto
Authors: Albani Clara María , Fuentes Giselle , Ramírez Cristina Lujan , Pensel Patricia Eugenia , Gatti Florencia , Albanese Adriana , Nutter Diego , Aguirre Matías Ezequiel , Di Iorio Yésica Dolores , Elissondo María Celina
Published: January 2024

Cystic echinococcosis is a global parasitic zoonosis caused by infection with the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato. Cystic echinococcosis affects more than 1 million people worldwide, causing important economic costs in terms of management and livestock associated losses. Albendazole is the main drug used in treating human cystic echinococcosis. In spite of this, its low aqueous solubility, poor absorption, and consequently erratic bioavailability are the cause of its chemotherapeutic failures. Based on the described problem, new treatment alternatives urgently need to be developed. The aim of the present research was to study the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD), the second most abundant component of the Cannabis sativa plant, was demonstrated against E. granulosus sensu stricto. CBD (50 µg/mL) caused a decrease in protoscoleces viability of 80 % after 24 h of treatment which was consistent with the observed tegumental alterations. Detachment of the germinal layer was observed in 50 ± 10% of cysts treated with 50 µg/mL of CBD during 24 h. In the clinical efficacy study, all treatments reduced the weight of cysts recovered from mice compared with the control group. However, this reduction was only significant with ABZ suspension and the CBD + ABZ combination. As we could observe by the SEM study, the co-administration of CBD with ABZ suspension caused greater ultrastructural alteration of the germinal layer in comparison with that provoked with the monotherapy. Further in vivo research will be conducted by changing the dose and frequency of CBD and CBD + ABZ treatments and new available CBD delivery systems will also be assayed to improve bioavailability in vivo.
Enzootic Circulation, Massive Gull Mortality and Poultry Outbreaks during the 2022/2023 High-Pathogenicity Avian Influenza H5N1 Season in the Czech Republic
Authors: Nagy Alexander , Stará Martina , Černíková Lenka , Kličková Eliška , Horák Ondřej , Hofmannová Lada , Sedlák Kamil
Published: January 2024

In 2022/2023, Europe experienced its third consecutive season of high-pathogenicity avian influenza. During this period, the Czech Republic was again severely affected. For the first time, the number of culled birds approached one million, which was three times higher than in previous seasons. In parallel to the outbreaks in poultry, mass die-offs of gulls were also observed. In the present study, we performed whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of 137 H5N1 strains collected in the Czech Republic in 2022/2023 (94.6% of all outbreaks or locations). The analysis revealed four distinct genotypes: AB, CH, BB and AF. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the AF genotype persisted from the previous H5N1 season without reassortment. In addition, the genotype BB, which was detected mainly in gulls, showed a noticeable strain diversity at the local level. This virus was also responsible for a single outbreak in commercially bred turkeys. Finally, an interesting spatio-temporal cluster with three co-circulating H5N1 genotypes, AB, CH and AF, was identified with no evidence of intrasubtype reassortment. Highly sensitive molecular surveillance and the timely sharing of genomic sequences and associated metadata could greatly assist in tracking the spread and detecting molecular changes associated with the increased virulence of this potentially zoonotic pathogen.
Clinical and Epidemiological Characteristics of Mpox in HIV-Infected and Uninfected Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Retrospective Study in Lisbon
Authors: de Sousa Diogo , Volovetska Yuliya , Nunes Daniel , Lemos Carlos , Borges-Costa João , Filipe Paulo
Published: January 2024

The resurgence of Mpox, predominantly among men who have sex with men (MSM), has prompted an analysis of its clinical manifestations and epidemiological patterns, particularly in individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This retrospective study aims to delineate and compare the clinical presentations and epidemiological characteristics of Mpox among HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals. A total of 58 confirmed Mpox cases from a dermatology department in Lisbon were analyzed, focusing on mucocutaneous manifestations, systemic symptoms, and laboratory parameters. Our findings indicate no significant difference in disease severity and presentation between HIV-positive and HIV-negative groups, suggesting that HIV status may not be a determinant of Mpox severity, but rather an indicator of increased sexual risk behaviors, a recognized risk factor for Mpox transmission.
Architecture and Potential of Connected and Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Pipicelli Michele , Gimelli Alfredo , Sessa Bernardo , De Nola Francesco , Toscano Gianluca , Di Blasio Gabriele
Published: January 2024

The transport sector is under an intensive renovation process. Innovative concepts such as shared and intermodal mobility, mobility as a service, and connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) will contribute to the transition toward carbon neutrality and are foreseen as crucial parts of future mobility systems, as demonstrated by worldwide efforts in research and industry communities. The main driver of CAVs development is road safety, but other benefits, such as comfort and energy saving, are not to be neglected. CAVs analysis and development usually focus on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) research themes and less on the entire vehicle system. Many studies on specific aspects of CAVs are available in the literature, including advanced powertrain control strategies and their effects on vehicle efficiency. However, most studies neglect the additional power consumption due to the autonomous driving system. This work aims to assess uncertain CAVs’ efficiency improvements and offers an overview of their architecture. In particular, a combination of the literature survey and proper statistical methods are proposed to provide a comprehensive overview of CAVs. The CAV layout, data processing, and management to be used in energy management strategies are discussed. The data gathered are used to define statistical distribution relative to the efficiency improvement, number of sensors, computing units and their power requirements. Those distributions have been employed within a Monte Carlo method simulation to evaluate the effect on vehicle energy consumption and energy saving, using optimal driving behaviour, and considering the power consumption from additional CAV hardware. The results show that the assumption that CAV technologies will reduce energy consumption compared to the reference vehicle, should not be taken for granted. In 75% of scenarios, simulated light-duty CAVs worsen energy efficiency, while the results are more promising for heavy-duty vehicles.
Reprocessing and Resource Utilization of Landfill Sludge—A Case Study in a Chinese Megacity
Authors: Yang Yifeng , Luan Jingshuai , Nie Jing , Zhang Xin , Du Jiong , Zhao Gang , Dong Lei , Fan Yong , Cui He , Li Yubo
Published: January 2024

In the past, due to improper sludge treatment technology and the absence of treatment standards, some municipal sludge was simply dewatered and then sent to landfills, occupying a significant amount of land and posing a serious threat of secondary pollution. To free up land in the landfill area for the expansion of a large-scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Shanghai, in this study, we conducted comprehensive pilot research on the entire chain of landfill sludge reprocessing and resource utilization. Both the combination of polyferric silicate sulfate (PFSS) and polyetheramine (PEA) and the combination of polyaluminum silicate (PAS) and polyetheramine (PEA) were used for sludge conditioning before dewatering, resulting in dewatered sludge with approximately 60% moisture content. The combined process involved coagulation and sedimentation, flocculation, and oxidation to treat the leachate generated during dewatering. The treatment process successfully met the specified water pollutant discharge concentration limits for the leachate, with the concentration of ammonia nitrogen in the effluent as low as 15.6 mg/L. Co-incineration in a power plant and modification were applied to stabilize and harmlessly dispose of the dewatered sludge. The coal-generating system ran stably, and no obvious problems were observed in the blending process. In the modification experiment, adding 5% to 7% of the solidifying agent increased the sludge bearing ratio by 53% and 57%, respectively. This process effectively reduced levels of fecal coliforms and heavy metals in the sludge but had a less noticeable effect on organic matter content. The modified sludge proved suitable for use as backfill material in construction areas without requirements for organic matter. The results of this study provide valuable insights for a completed full-scale landfill sludge reclamation and land resource release project.
Analysing Urban Flooding Risk with CMIP5 and CMIP6 Climate Projections
Authors: Oyelakin Rafiu , Yang Wenyu , Krebs Peter
Published: January 2024

Fitting probability distribution functions to observed data is the standard way to compute future design floods, but may not accurately reflect the projected future pattern of extreme events related to climate change. In applying the latest coupled model intercomparison project (CMIP5 and CMIP6), this research investigates how likely it is that precipitation changes in CMIP5 and CMIP6 will affect both the magnitude and frequency of flood analysis. GCM output from four modelling institutes in CMIP5, with representative pathway concentration (RCP8.5) and the corresponding CMIP6 shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP585), were selected for historical and future periods, before the project precipitation was statistically downscaled for selected cities by using delta, quantile mapping (QM), and empirical quantile mapping (EQM). On the basis of performance evaluation, a rainfall-runoff hydrological model was developed by using the stormwater management model (SWMM) for CMIPs (CMIP5 and CMIP6) in historical and future horizons. The results reveal an unprecedented increase in extreme events, for both CMIP5 (historical) and CMIP6 (future) projections. The years 2070–2080 were identified by both CMIP5 and CMIP6 as experiencing the most severe flooding.
Non-financial reporting in Russia: purpose and classification of types
Authors:   LLC «Audit-NT», St. Petersburg l, Russia, Anisimova E. V.
Published: January 2024

The development processes of non-financial reporting are currently directly related to fundamental changes in the global economy as a result of international integration and internationalization of production and economic activities. In such a situation, the need to provide users with reliable and accessible information about all areas of the organization’s activities through the preparation and presentation of non-financial reporting becomes urgent. The article defines the role of non-financial information in the process of effective functioning of a company in the socio-economic environment, and also identifies the main goals of the formation of non-financial reports, considers their types, reveals the essence and content, and carries out a classification. The range of users and directions of use of non-financial information by stakeholders is considered. International and national organizations regulating the procedure for the formation and presentation of non-financial reporting, as well as the features of the implementation of international practice by domestic companies, have been studied. The object of the study was the conceptual provisions for constructing a system for generating public non-financial reporting. The methodological basis was the Russian and foreign regulatory framework in the field of formation and certification of non-financial reporting of organizations. The article discusses the most common types of non-financial reporting. In the process of analyzing the problem, traditional methods were used: monographic, abstract-logical, comparative, calculation-constructive, etc.
Analytical tools of the risk assessment mechanism for the establishment and development of a cluster for the production of flower products in the Kaluga Region
Authors:   Kaluga branch of the Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, Kaluga, Russia, Turchaeva I. N. , Kokorev N. A. ,   Kaluga branch of the Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, Kaluga, Russia
Published: January 2024

state of the geopolitical situation, the disruption of well-established logistics supply chains, sanctions trade restrictions have led to an aggravation of problems in the flower industry of the regions, the country as a whole, and at the same time have identified new opportunities and prospects for its development. At the same time, the relevance of cluster design of the functioning of the industry increases. The functioning and development of the flower industry in modern conditions is associated with numerous threats and risks, which requires their identification, assessment, monitoring, followed by the adoption of adequate measures to neutralize. In these conditions, a reasonable, timely assessment of the risks of the current and investment activities of the cluster for the production of flower products in the whole region, taking into account the characteristics of its participants, is of decisive importance. Without an optimal selection of analytical tools and their effective use, it is impossible to ensure the reality of risk assessment, which certainly affects the effectiveness of producers of floriculture products and the industry as a whole. Based on a general analysis of the state of the floriculture industry in the region, the prospects for development in a cluster format, the article substantiates approaches to the optimal selection and use of analytical tools for a real assessment of numerous threats and risks in order to stop and level them in a timely manner. Based on expert estimates obtained using a specially developed PEST analysis methodology, the authors identified the main external risks and threats to the development of a flower cluster in the Kaluga region, summarized the results of SWOT analysis and identified measures that can reduce the negative impact of the identified threats and risks. The provisions of the article were used in the development of a strategy for the creation and development of a cluster for the production of flower products in the Kaluga region.
Importancia de la inteligencia emocional en la capacidad profesional de los docentes
Authors: Hermitaño Cuenca Rayda Elizabeth , Zanabria Vargas Edelmira
Published: January 2024

En el ámbito educativo, la inteligencia emocional (IE) ha ganado relevancia tras las investigaciones de Goleman (1996), destacando su papel crucial en el éxito personal y profesional. Este estudio se propuso identificar la IE y la capacidad profesional de los docentes. Mediante una revisión sistemática utilizando EBSCO, SCOPUS y Google académico, se analizaron 23 artículos científicos previo criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Los resultados revelaron una estrecha relación entre la IE y la capacidad profesional docente, indicando que la formación en este ámbito está en desarrollo. Sin embargo, se concluyó que existe una deficiencia en la IE de los docentes, tanto a nivel básico como superior, señalando la necesidad de fortalecer este aspecto en la formación docente.
The essence and specifics of organizing the teachers training for children with disabilities
Authors: Mamchur Lidia , Shuppe Liudmyla , Barkasi Viktoriya , Bykova Mariia , Bodnaruk Iryna
Published: January 2024

In the article, to research the place of inclusive competence in the professional training of future teachers, the ways of forming inclusive competence in the professional training of future teachers, and the development of pedagogical conditions for the formation of inclusive competence, we found out the state of inclusive readiness of future students for inclusive activities among students. The results of the ascertainment experiment showed the need for the formation of inclusive competence in future teachers as early as possible and to continue throughout their lives with the aim of highquality inclusive education of students. For the formation of inclusive competence of future teachers, we identified the components of inclusive competence, clarified the place of inclusive competence in society and the teacher's professional activity, revealed the content of axiological, anthropological, holistic, personal, activity, differentiated, competence approaches, clarified important principles and developed and implemented pedagogical conditions for the formation of inclusive competence with the aim of quality inclusive education of students. As a result of the conducted research, we observe a higher formation of inclusive competence in the experimental groups than in the control groups.
European experience of dual education for future teachers in Ukraine
Authors: Kondratska Halyna , Grigorieva Natalya , Kugai Kseniia , Vyshnevska Maryna , Sapozhnykov Stanislav
Published: January 2024

The aim of the research is to determine the effectiveness of the European experience of dual education in Ukraine for future teachers. The aim was achieved through the use of comparison, SWOT analysis, calculation of selectivity factor, effectiveness, correlation index. The comparison of dual education systems in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Poland was used to determine their impact on the effectiveness of education and employment. It was established that the experience of Germany is the most effective for acquiring the necessary practical skills (f_c=14.2). The dual system of Switzerland is the most favourable for employment (14.5), as it is aimed at adopting the practical experience of the most competitive institutions. It was established that the experience of Germany can be the most positive dual system for Ukrainian education (f_c=14.4) and Poland (f_c=14.2). SWOT analysis was applied to establish that the dual education system has greater advantages compared to traditional education. The practical significance of the research is the possibility of providing a dual system during the teachers’ training as a result of focusing on the favourable experience of Germany and Poland. The prospects for further research may be related to the comparison of dual education experience of European countries, America for Ukraine.
The role of transnational electronic evidence in the investigation of crimes
Authors: Akhtyrska Nataliia , Kostiuchenko Olena , Sereda Yurii , Vynohradova Anna , Miroshnykov Ivan
Published: January 2024

The purpose of the study was a comparative analysis of the police practice of EU member states and Ukraine regarding transnational electronic evidence. Taking into account the goal, the practice of law enforcement of EU member states and Ukraine was chosen for comparative analysis. The method of comparative law and statistical methods were effective methodological tools and the basis of this research. The conducted research revealed that the international community is making a lot of efforts to reform the procedure for obtaining transnational electronic evidence when adapting to the current requirements. The new EU rules on the provision and storage of transnational electronic evidence cover the categories of subscriber data, access to transactions, and content. It was established that the SIRIUS and TREIO projects are important tools for supporting EU law enforcement agencies in matters related to transnational electronic evidence. In Ukraine, it is necessary to improve the legislation on the procedure for obtaining transnational electronic evidence with due regard to the international practice. The use of the recommendations of the SIRIUS and TREIO projects in Ukraine can contribute to improving the procedure of international cooperation regarding access to transnational electronic evidence in criminal investigations.
Forensic information sources during the investigation of war crimes
Authors: Shulha Andriy , Tkach Andrii , Murzo Yevheniia , Horodetska Maryna , Sokur Tetiana
Published: January 2024

The relevance of studying the forensic information sources in the investigation of war crimes is determined by the specifics of these acts, the impact of the armed conflict on the activities of law enforcement officers, and the need for information exchange between national and international agencies. The aim of the study is to determine the specifics of working with forensic information sources in the investigation of war crimes. The research employed the logical method, comparative method, forecasting.

The commission of war crimes in wartime determines the specifics of the choice of forensic information sources. The legal status of information affects the possibility of its use in the investigation process. Working with data sources depends on regulatory, infrastructural support, and staffing. Subjects of work with forensic information sources are national and foreign law enforcement agencies and international institutions. The appropriateness of data exchange using European platforms is substantiated.

The academic novelty of the research consists of analysing the sources of forensic information in the context of the specifics of war crimes and the specifics of cooperation between national and international agencies.

The study reveals the prospects of algorithmization of work with sources of forensic information on war crimes in the context of armed conflict.