bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hierarchical, Attribute and Hash-Based Naming and Forwarding Aided Smart Campus of Things
Authors: Arshad Sobia , Azam Muhammad Awais , Loo Jonathan , Majeed Muhammad Faran , Haider Ali
Published: November 2023

In order to provide universal ability to access information and communication among Internet-connected devices, the Sustainable Internet of Things (IoT) is on a mission to bring all objects or devices under one roof. Future Internet architecture, especially Information-Centric Networking (ICN), can easily handle the connectivity offered and information created by the massive amount of devices to make it as sustainable IoT applications. Named Data Networking (NDN), one of the several future Internet designs that employ ICN as its foundation, shows promise. NDN integration with IoT-based applications gives solutions to numerous problems. However, this fusion makes accessing the IoT content easier, provided that an effective naming scheme is created to execute this operation. In this work, we build an innovative NDN-based naming scheme (NDN–NS) and put it into practise for consumer, producer, and content routers using our own secure forwarding schemes (NDN–NFS). Due to its scalability, heterogeneity, and security needs, IoT-based Smart Campus (IoT-SC) scenarios are taken into consideration for design and evaluation. We give a complete activity list based on NDN–NS that is split into two communication models (PusH Type Communication (PHTC) and PulL Type Communication (PLTC)) that can be applied to any IoT application. In terms of interest satisfaction rate (ISR), delay, and number of transmissions, we compare the NDN–NFS to legacy NDN. The outcomes demonstrate that NDN–NFS outperforms classic NDN in terms of performance and efficiency.
Exploring Village Spatial Patterns for Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Diqing Prefecture
Authors: Liu Xinqu , Zhang Yiwei , Li Yaowu , Zhang Anding , Li Chaoran
Published: November 2023

Alexander’s A Pattern Language is an important text and focuses on the theory of diverse environmental spatial sustainability. With the contemporary digital development of villages, it is urgent that village spatial patterns are analyzed in a scientific and quantitative way in order to determine heritage village diversity. The village settlements in the Diqing region are typical representatives, having a changeable terrain, being large in number, and being multi-ethnic in China; in recent years, they have also faced slow development and limited conditions. However, few studies have focused on the multiple quantitative analysis of the diverse spatial patterns of village settlements in an ethnic minority region. Therefore, this study selects 2486 village settlements in Diqing and, using KED, NNI SSIA, etc., proposes a spatial pattern analysis framework (SPAF) based on pattern language theory. According to the spatial influencing factors, spatial analysis criteria are constructed to analyze the village spatial pattern types and subtypes. The results show that the region’s topographic conditions are the dominant factors that form the diversified village spatial patterns existent in the Diqing Prefecture. Among them, the dominant pattern of building villages along slopes with a small-population scale and large-dispersed settlements achieves a healthy and sustainable living environment that is oriented well, cost-saving, and conforms to nature. Meanwhile, the dominant pattern is also the reason for the inhibition of development due to inconvenient transportation and difficult management. Therefore, sustainable strategies should strike a balance between the two opposites. Based on the SPAF, spatial patterns can be effectively extracted for diverse village spaces, providing digital and visual references for the regeneration of contemporary rural areas.
Exploring an Interdisciplinary Curriculum in Product and Media Design Education: Knowledge Innovation and Competency Development
Authors: Kao Yi-Fang , Chen Hung-Cheng , Lo Jung-Hua
Published: November 2023

This study explores the implementation of an interdisciplinary curriculum in product and media design education and its impact on knowledge innovation and competency development. The curriculum is based on scaffolding theory, incorporating design proposals, workshops, digital design, marketing tests, and marketing activities guided by teachers and mentors from a branded ceramic workshop. The research findings demonstrate that the interdisciplinary curriculum facilitates knowledge innovation and fosters the development of students’ professional skills, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The study also highlights the importance of stable scaffolding, including artefact-, peer-, and teacher support, which significantly contributes to cultivating transformational competencies, as outlined in the 2030 OECD Learning Compass. Additionally, the collaboration with Shanshing Four Seasons Celadon Studio on a patented ceramic product, “Funny Monkey”, is a tangible example of the journey towards a triple-helix knowledge economy. This research underscores the importance of interdisciplinary curricula in promoting knowledge innovation and integrating transformational competencies in education. Scaffolding theory provides practical guidance for student learning and teaching strategies, presenting a sustainable roadmap for developing interdisciplinary curricula and offering a concrete and transferable pedagogical prototype for educational innovation.
The Current State of Light-Duty Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Costs: An Assessment of Contemporary Understanding
Authors: Lyons Torrey , Chu Kang-Ching , Smart John
Published: November 2023

This study uses a hybrid meta-analysis and literature-review approach to understand the current state of knowledge regarding the costs of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). We present a novel way to consider, categorize, and label measures of cost and show cost measure estimates from a sample of 13 recent studies. We find that in general, there is too much variation and too few commonly represented EVSE cost measures to reasonably provide aggregate figures for these measures. We propose a convention for presenting EVSE cost measures that includes the application (commercial or residential), the power level (Level 1, Level 2, DCFC [with further distinction based on rated power capacity]), and the type of cost measure (hardware, installation, operation, and total cost). We contend that providing researchers with standard cost measures will help to advance our knowledge of EVSE costs by ensuring that future work will use common metrics. Establishing common metrics will enable conventional meta-analyses that will make assessments of EVSE costs even more accessible. Additionally, common metrics will make tracking costs more reliable as the technology continues to evolve and become more ubiquitous.
A Novel Three-Dimensional Composite Isolation Bearing and Its Application to the Mitigation of Earthquakes and Traffic-Induced Vibrations
Authors: Wu Qiaoyun , Xu Hang , Xu Zhifeng , Chen Xuyong
Published: November 2023

Potential damage caused by earthquakes combined with reduced comfort due to traffic has become a big challenge when designing modern buildings, and base-isolation is one of the most effective solutions to such a problem. However, most isolation bearings cannot provide sufficient mitigation for both earthquakes and traffic-induced vibrations simultaneously. To this end, this research proposes a new type of three-dimensional isolation bearing for the mitigation of both earthquake effects and traffic-induced vibrations, which is composited by a thick rubber bearing, an auto-reset flat sliding bearing, and a double concave friction pendulum bearing. In this study, the analytical hysteresis model of the proposed isolation bearing was derived and experimentally validated. In addition, the fatigue performance and vertical compression performance of the proposed isolation bearing was tested and analyzed. Finally, the mitigation effect for traffic-induced vibrations of the proposed isolation bearing was validated through a field test.
Application of Digital Technologies Tools for Social and Sustainable Construction in a Developing Economy
Authors: Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Aliu John , Jamir Singh Paramjit Singh , Onajite Solomon A. , Kineber Ahmed Farouk , Samsurijan Mohamad Shaharudin
Published: November 2023

This study aims to evaluate the diverse application areas of digital technologies (DTs) within the Nigerian construction industry, with the intention of gaining insights into their potential benefits, challenges, and opportunities for enhancing efficiency, productivity, and overall performance. This will help us to understand how innovative technologies can improve the various stages of construction projects. To achieve the objectives of this study, a convenience sampling approach was employed to distribute closed-ended questionnaires among construction professionals located in Lagos State. Several statistical tools were used to analyze the obtained data, including percentages, frequencies, mean item scores, and exploratory factor analyses were performed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dataset. The major findings from the study indicated that architectural design, cost planning, building system analysis, structural analysis, and contract documentation are areas in which DT is mostly applied in the construction industry. Further analysis using factor analysis revealed four clusters of application areas as the pre-contract stage, construction stage, post-contract stage, and modeling stage. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the effective utilization of DT in the construction industry, thereby contributing to informed decision-making and improved project management practices. The insights gained from this research can inform industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders in making informed decisions to drive positive changes and innovation within the sector.
Scientometric Trends and Knowledge Gaps of Zero-Emission Campuses
Authors: Longfor Nkweauseh Reginald , Hu Jiarong , Li You , Qian Xuepeng , Zhou Weisheng
Published: November 2023

As the urgency of addressing climate change grows, strategies such as developing zero-emission campuses to achieve carbon neutrality are becoming increasingly crucial. Yet, research in this field remains somewhat underdeveloped and fragmented. This study aims to bridge this gap, providing a scientometric analysis of the research conducted on zero-emission campuses from 1997 to 2023, using data from the Web of Science Core Collection. The study analyzed 1009 bibliographic records with the aid of CiteSpace software, focusing on identifying key co-authors, co-words, co-citations, and clusters. The findings indicate a rapid increase in research in the field of zero-emission campuses, with a significant surge in the number of publications in recent years, culminating in 174 in 2021 alone. The leading universities in terms of publication count were the University of California System, Egyptian Knowledge Bank, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Furthermore, the United States, China, and the United Kingdom were identified as the main contributing countries/regions to publishing in this field, indicating a broad, global collaboration. The scope of research has broadened from technical elements, such as energy, to encompass social factors that influence sustainability. Emerging research areas were identified, including education and sustainability, renewable energy and energy efficiency, campus planning and design, waste management and recycling, policy support, and pro-environmental behavior. This study provides a structured overview of the research landscape in the field of zero-emission campuses, offering valuable guidance for academics and encouraging further collaboration. The identified research clusters, notable authors, and influential institutions hold significant implications for policy decisions, industry practices, and the implementation of zero-emission strategies on campuses, aiding in the broader pursuit of sustainability.
Factors Influencing the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence Technologies in Agriculture, Livestock Farming and Aquaculture: A Systematic Literature Review Using PRISMA 2020
Authors: Georgopoulos Vasileios P. , Gkikas Dimitris C. , Theodorou John A.
Published: November 2023

Food production faces significant challenges, mainly due to the increase in the Earth’s population, combined with climate change. This will create extreme pressure on food industries, which will have to respond to the demand while protecting the environment and ensuring high food quality. It is, therefore, imperative to adopt innovative technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, in order to aid in this cause. To do this, we first need to understand the adoption process that enables the deployment of those technologies. Therefore, this research attempts to identify the factors that encourage and discourage the adoption of Artificial Intelligence technologies by professionals working in the fields of agriculture, livestock farming and aquaculture, by examining the available literature on the subject. This is a systematic literature review that follows the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The research was conducted on 38 articles selected from a pool of 225 relevant articles, and led to the identification of 20 factors that encourage and 21 factors that discourage the adoption of Artificial Intelligence. The factors that appeared most were of economic nature regarding discouragement (31.5%) and product-related regarding encouragement (28.1%). This research does not aim to quantify the importance of each factor—since more original research becoming available is needed for that—but mainly to construct a list of factors, using spreadsheets, which could then be used to guide further future research towards understanding the adoption mechanism.
From Efficiency to Sustainability: Exploring the Potential of 6G for a Greener Future
Authors: Kumar Rohit , Gupta Saurav Kumar , Wang Hwang-Cheng , Kumari C. Shyamala , Korlam Sai Srinivas Vara Prasad
Published: November 2023

This article provides a comprehensive examination of sustainable 6G wireless communication systems, addressing the urgent need for environmentally friendly and energy-efficient networks. The background establishes the broader context and significance of the study, emphasizing the escalating concerns surrounding the environmental impact and energy consumption of wireless communication systems. The purpose of this study is to explore and propose sustainable solutions for 6G networks. The methods employed in this research encompass an analysis of various strategies and technologies, including energy-aware network design, dynamic power management, energy harvesting, and green infrastructure deployment. The main findings of this article highlight the effectiveness of these approaches in enhancing energy efficiency, reducing carbon footprint, and optimizing resource management in 6G networks. The conclusions drawn from this study emphasize the importance of sustainable 6G wireless communication systems in achieving a more eco-friendly and energy-efficient future. It is crucial to adopt these sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact and address the increasing energy demands of wireless communication networks. The article provides valuable insights to researchers, industry practitioners, and policymakers, aiding in the development and implementation of sustainable practices for 6G wireless communication systems.
Optimization of Preventive Maintenance Timing of Highway Bridges Considering China’s “Dual Carbon” Target
Authors: Pei Lunyou , Wang Bing , Liu Ying , Liu Xiaoling
Published: November 2023

The dual carbon target is a two-stage carbon reduction goal proposed by China, while the bridge maintenance strategy does not consider the need for sustainable development. Therefore, this article studies the optimization of bridge maintenance timing under China’s dual carbon goals. Firstly, this paper aims to minimize the total cost of maintenance and carbon emissions, considering the continuous effects of carbon pricing and emissions in the context of the dual carbon goals. The CHINAGEM-E model is employed to predict carbon prices, and a preventive maintenance decision-making method for highway bridges is established. Secondly, based on the theory of material residual strength, a degradation model for the technical condition of highway bridges is constructed. Finally, an in-depth case analysis of an in-service highway bridge is conducted to derive optimal maintenance solutions under three scenarios. In comparison to scenarios considering only maintenance costs or those based on benchmark carbon prices, the comprehensive maintenance cost under the dual carbon targets is the highest. In the total maintenance cost, carbon emission costs constitute over 50%, emphasizing the need for increased attention to carbon emission cost studies in future maintenance research. The methodology proposed in this paper is the first to connect carbon prices with the timing of preventive maintenance for bridges, providing a more scientific and sustainable basis for future highway bridge maintenance decisions.
Sustainable Water Management for Small Farmers with Center-Pivot Irrigation: A Hydraulic and Structural Design Perspective
Authors: Rashid Muhammad , Haider Saif , Masood Muhammad Umer , Pande Chaitanya B. , Tolche Abebe Debele , Alshehri Fahad , Costache Romulus , Elkhrachy Ismail
Published: November 2023

In Pakistan, surface water supply for irrigation is decreasing, while water demand is increasing for agriculture production. Also, due to the fast rate of population growth, land holding capacity is decreasing. So, there is a need to develop appropriate technologies and design approaches for small-scale farmers to improve modern irrigation practices. In this study, a hydraulic and structural layout of CPIS was designed for small-scale farmers with some modifications. The hydraulic parameters and structural design of the CPIS were designed using IrriExpress and SAP2000 software, respectively. An economic analysis of the modified CPIS was carried out. The results revealed that in one complete revolution of the whole system, its span slope varied from 2.98 to 0.1%, and the wheel slope varied from 2.35 to −2.4%. The timing setting was 60% for one revolution, and the irrigation depth was 10 mm. When the time setting was reduced from 100% to 10%, the irrigation hours per cycle and irrigation depth both increased. Variendeel type-II trusses were designed for structural purposes using SAP2000 software. This design led to a 17% reduction in weight by lowering it from 1.916 to 1.5905 tons and a 44% reduction in joint count, decreasing it from 32 to 18. Our economic analysis revealed that the structural part of the system is more expensive than the hydraulic, electric and power parts for small-scale design. So, it was suggested that CPIS is suitable for land holdings from 100 to 250 acres, because when the area increases to more than 250 acres, there is no significant change in the cost. A towable system is more economical for small-scale farmers due to its lower cost per acre. This study will be helpful for the optimization of CPISs to improve water use efficiency and crop yield.
Beyond the Screen: Do Esports Participants Really Have More Physical Health Problems?
Authors: Tang Di , Sum Kim-wai Raymond , Ma Ruisi , Ho Wai-keung
Published: November 2023

This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the association between esports participation and physical health and examine the difference in physical health problems between esports participants and non-esports participants. A total of 1549 young adults participated in this investigation. A total of 633 participants were categorized as esports participants, and they were involved in six types of esports games: shooting games, multiplayer online battle arena games, strategy card games, sports games, real-time strategy games, and fighting games. An online survey was conducted to gather data on their demographic information, gaming behavior, traditional sports behavior, and physical health problems. The results demonstrated that esports players reported significantly higher participation in traditional sports compared to non-esports players. No significant differences were found in sleep duration or the selected physical health issues between the two groups. Overall, the findings suggest that esports participation was not associated with negative physical health in this sample of young adults. Furthermore, this study found that players who conscientiously took intermittent breaks and maintained a standardized sitting posture during gameplay had a lower likelihood of reporting neck and back pain. These findings have important implications for challenging conventional negative perceptions of esports and promoting a more objective understanding and appreciation of esports and the sustainable development of esports players. Future research is necessary to explore potential causal relationships between esports participation and health outcomes and to develop a healthier esports practice modality from a sports science perspective.
Evaluation of Municipal Waste Compost in Relation to the Environmental Retention of Heavy Metals
Authors: Ramísio Paulo J. , Bento Fátima , Geraldo Dulce , Andrade Otília , Bettencourt Ana Paula
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the performance of municipal compost as a heavy metal adsorbent for environmental protection systems. The performed assays test the effects of the pH (2–9) and contact time (5–250 min) on metal retention. To simulate leaching in natural systems, the soluble organic fraction was removed, leading to variations in the surface properties, including a 10% increase in the cation exchange capacity (CEC) and a 242% increase in the BET-specific surface area, accompanied by a small decrease in the surface charge (characterized by a less negative zeta potential values) of the washed municipal compost (WMC). Notably, these variations, which have not been found in previous research, yielded improved retention of Cu(II) and Zn(II) compared to raw municipal compost (RMC), attaining 96% retention for Cu(II) and 97% retention for Zn(II) at a pH of approximately 6.8–7.2 for a contact time of 120 min. The vast availability, cost-effectiveness, and resistance to desorption make municipal compost a viable option in a circular economy context for mitigating metal pollution across various environmental conditions. It is worth noting that this study can serve as a proxy for the expected outcomes in long-term exposure to environmental protection systems, enhancing the practical relevance of using compost for metal retention purposes.
A Probiotic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D-1 Strain Is Responsible for Zearalenone Detoxifying in Coix Semen
Authors: Deng Tao , Chen Yefei , Zhang Jinqiang , Gao Yanping , Yang Changgui , Jiang Weike , Ou Xiaohong , Wang Yanhong , Guo Lanping , Zhou Tao , Yuan Qing-Song
Published: November 2023

Zearalenone (ZEN) is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium spp., which commonly and severely contaminate food/feed. ZEN severely affects food/feed safety and reduces economic losses owing to its carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, endocrine effects, and immunotoxicity. To explore efficient methods to detoxify ZEN, we identified and characterized an efficient ZEN-detoxifying microbiota from the culturable microbiome of Pseudostellaria heterophylla rhizosphere soil, designated Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D-1. Its highest ZEN degradation rate reached 96.13% under the optimal condition. And, D-1 can almost completely remove ZEN (90 μg·g−1) from coix semen in 24 h. Then, the D-1 strain can detoxify ZEN to ZEM, which is a new structural metabolite, through hydrolyzation and decarboxylation at the ester group in the lactone ring and amino acid esterification at C2 and C4 hydroxy. Notably, ZEM has reduced the impact on viability, and the damage of cell membrane and nucleus DNA and can significantly decrease the cell apoptosis in the HepG2 cell and TM4 cell. In addition, it was found that the D-1 strain has no adverse effect on the HepG2 and TM4 cells. Our findings can provide an efficient microbial resource and a reliable reference strategy for the biological detoxification of ZEN.
Clinical Risk Factors Associated with Poor Outcomes in Snake Envenoming: A Narrative Review
Authors: Wood Darryl
Published: November 2023

Snakebite-related fatalities disproportionately affect populations in impoverished socio-economic regions, marked by limited access to adequate healthcare and constrained antivenom availability. Early medical intervention is pivotal in mitigating mortality and morbidity associated with snakebite envenoming (SBE). While clinical assessment remains fundamental in treating SBE, this review aims to spotlight objective parameters that could also affect outcomes. Selected studies that identify factors associated with poor outcomes are predominantly region-specific, single-site, and observational, yet collectively reveal similar findings. They consistently report factors such as treatment delays, susceptibility in vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women, as well as various biochemical and haematological abnormalities. Acute kidney injury (AKI), low platelets, leucocytosis, abnormal coagulation, and elevated creatine kinase (CK) all show an association with poor outcomes. Furthermore, recognising rare and unusual SBE presentations such as adrenal insufficiency, severe hypertension, intracranial haemorrhage, acute angle closure glaucoma, and bowel ischaemia also has a bearing on outcomes. Despite the integration of these parameters into clinical decision tools and guidelines, the validation of this evidence is limited. This review underscores the imperative for high-quality, multi-centre studies aligned with consensus-driven Core Outcome Sets (COS) and Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMS) to validate and strengthen the current evidence.
Modification Study on Quantum Tunneling Radiation of Kinnersley Black Hole
Authors: Wang Cong , Zhang Jie , Liu Yu-Zhen
Published: November 2023

In the spacetime of a linearly accelerating Kinnersley black hole, the Lorentz-breaking theory is used to modify the dynamical equations of Dirac particles by selecting gamma matrices and aether-like field vectors in the curved spacetime of this black hole. Using the WKB approximation and black hole quantum tunneling radiation theory, we investigate the characteristics of quantum tunneling radiation in this black hole.By solving the modified spinor field equations, we obtain expressions for the corrected quantum tunneling rate, Hawking temperature, and surface gravitation of the black hole. By studying the particle radial component of the general momentum in this curved spacetime, a new expression for the modified distribution of positive and negative energy levels of Dirac particles, as well as their maximum value of crossing energy level, is obtained. In order to further elucidate the physical significance of the research methodology employed in the article and a series of conclusions obtained, a detailed discussion of the corresponding results is provided in the later sections of this paper.
Discovery and Characterization of IFITM S-Palmitoylation
Authors: Das Tandrila , Hang Howard C.
Published: November 2023

Interferon-induced transmembrane proteins (IFITM1, 2 and 3) are important host antiviral defense factors. They are active against viruses like the influenza A virus (IAV), dengue virus (DENV), Ebola virus (EBOV), Zika virus (ZIKV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). In this review, we focus on IFITM3 S-palmitoylation, a reversible lipid modification, and describe its role in modulating IFITM3 antiviral activity. Our laboratory discovered S-palmitoylation of IFITMs using chemical proteomics and demonstrated the importance of highly conserved fatty acid-modified Cys residues in IFITM3 antiviral activity. Further studies showed that site-specific S-palmitoylation at Cys72 is important for IFITM3 trafficking to restricted viruses (IAV and EBOV) and membrane–sterol interactions. Thus, site-specific lipid modification of IFITM3 directly regulates its antiviral activity, cellular trafficking, and membrane-lipid interactions.
Accelerated Long-Fragment Circular PCR for Genetic Manipulation of Plant Viruses in Unveiling Functional Genomics
Authors: Jailani A. Abdul Kader , Chattopadhyay Anirudha , Kumar Pradeep , Singh Oinam Washington , Mukherjee Sunil Kumar , Roy Anirban , Sanan-Mishra Neeti , Mandal Bikash
Published: November 2023

Molecular cloning, a crucial prerequisite for engineering plasmid constructs intended for functional genomic studies, relies on successful restriction and ligation processes. However, the lack of unique restriction sites often hinders construct preparation, necessitating multiple modifications. Moreover, achieving the successful ligation of large plasmid constructs is frequently challenging. To address these limitations, we present a novel PCR strategy in this study, termed ‘long-fragment circular-efficient PCR’ (LC-PCR). This technique involves one or two rounds of PCR with an additional third-long primer that complements both ends of the newly synthesized strand of a plasmid construct. This results in self-circularization with a nick-gap in each newly formed strand. The LC-PCR technique was successfully employed to insert a partial sequence (210 nucleotides) of the phytoene desaturase gene from Nicotiana benthamiana and a full capsid protein gene (770 nucleotides) of a begomovirus (tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus) into a 16.4 kb infectious construct of a tobamovirus, cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV), cloned in pCambia. This was done to develop the virus-induced gene silencing vector (VIGS) and an expression vector for a foreign protein in plants, respectively. Furthermore, the LC-PCR could be applied for the deletion of a large region (replicase enzyme) and the substitution of a single amino acid in the CGMMV genome. Various in planta assays of these constructs validate their biological functionality, highlighting the utility of the LC-PCR technique in deciphering plant-virus functional genomics. The LC-PCR is not only suitable for modifying plant viral genomes but also applicable to a wide range of plant, animal, and human gene engineering under in-vitro conditions. Additionally, the LC-PCR technique provides an alternative to expensive kits, enabling quick introduction of modifications in any part of the nucleotide within a couple of days. Thus, the LC-PCR proves to be a suitable ‘all in one’ technique for modifying large plasmid constructs through site-directed gene insertion, deletion, and mutation, eliminating the need for restriction and ligation.
Testing a Recombinant Form of Tetanus Toxoid as a Carrier Protein for Glycoconjugate Vaccines
Authors: Oldrini Davide , Di Benedetto Roberta , Carducci Martina , De Simone Daniele , Massai Luisa , Alfini Renzo , Galli Barbara , Brunelli Brunella , Przedpelski Amanda , Barbieri Joseph T. , Rossi Omar , Giannelli Carlo , Rappuoli Rino , Berti Francesco , Micoli Francesca
Published: November 2023

Glycoconjugate vaccines play a major role in the prevention of infectious diseases worldwide, with significant impact on global health, enabling the polysaccharides to induce immunogenicity in infants and immunological memory. Tetanus toxoid (TT), a chemically detoxified bacterial toxin, is among the few carrier proteins used in licensed glycoconjugate vaccines. The recombinant full-length 8MTT was engineered in E. coli with eight individual amino acid mutations to inactivate three toxin functions. Previous studies in mice showed that 8MTT elicits a strong IgG response, confers protection, and can be used as a carrier protein. Here, we compared 8MTT to traditional carrier proteins TT and cross-reactive material 197 (CRM197), using different polysaccharides as models: Group A Streptococcus cell-wall carbohydrate (GAC), Salmonella Typhi Vi, and Neisseria meningitidis serogroups A, C, W, and Y. The persistency of the antibodies induced, the ability of the glycoconjugates to elicit booster response after re-injection at a later time point, the eventual carrier-induced epitopic suppression, and immune interference in multicomponent formulations were also evaluated. Overall, immunogenicity responses obtained with 8MTT glycoconjugates were compared to those obtained with corresponding TT and, in some cases, were higher than those induced by CRM197 glycoconjugates. Our results support the use of 8MTT as a good alternative carrier protein for glycoconjugate vaccines, with advantages in terms of manufacturability compared to TT.
Lactobacillus acidophilus Expressing Murine Rotavirus VP8 and Mucosal Adjuvants Induce Virus-Specific Immune Responses
Authors: Gilfillan Darby , Vilander Allison C. , Pan Meichen , Goh Yong Jun , O’Flaherty Sarah , Feng Ningguo , Fox Bridget E. , Lang Callie , Greenberg Harry B. , Abdo Zaid , Barrangou Rodolphe , Dean Gregg A.
Published: November 2023

Rotavirus diarrhea-associated illness remains a major cause of global death in children under five, attributable in part to discrepancies in vaccine performance between high- and low-middle-income countries. Next-generation probiotic vaccines could help bridge this efficacy gap. We developed a novel recombinant Lactobacillus acidophilus (rLA) vaccine expressing rotavirus antigens of the VP8* domain from the rotavirus EDIM VP4 capsid protein along with the adjuvants FimH and FliC. The upp-based counterselective gene-replacement system was used to chromosomally integrate FimH, VP8Pep (10 amino acid epitope), and VP8-1 (206 amino acid protein) into the L. acidophilus genome, with FliC expressed from a plasmid. VP8 antigen and adjuvant expression were confirmed by flow cytometry and Western blot. Rotavirus naïve adult BALB/cJ mice were orally immunized followed by murine rotavirus strain ECWT viral challenge. Antirotavirus serum IgG and antigen-specific antibody-secreting cell responses were detected in rLA-vaccinated mice. A day after the oral rotavirus challenge, fecal antigen shedding was significantly decreased in the rLA group. These results indicate that novel rLA constructs expressing VP8 can be successfully constructed and used to generate modest homotypic protection from rotavirus challenge in an adult murine model, indicating the potential for a probiotic next-generation vaccine construct against human rotavirus.
Correction: Shen et al. Platelet Activation and Cytokine Release of Interleukin-8 and Interferon-Gamma-Induced Protein 10 after ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 Coronavirus Vaccine Injection. Vaccines 2023, 11, 456
Authors: Shen Chih-Lung , Wang Tso-Fu , Liu Chao-Zong , Wu Yi-Feng
Published: November 2023

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this published paper [...]
Antibiotic Resistance Genes Carried by Commensal Escherichia coli from Shelter Cats in Italy
Authors: Gambino Delia , Galluzzo Francesco Giuseppe , Cicero Luca , Cirincione Roberta , Mannino Erika , Fiore Veronica , Proverbio Daniela , Spada Eva , Cassata Giovanni , Gargano Valeria
Published: November 2023

Antimicrobial resistance is a widespread global health problem. The presence of resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes has been demonstrated not only in humans but also in animals, including pets. Stray cats share the urban environment with people and pets. This may facilitate transmission of resistant bacteria and resistance genes between stray animals, people and domestic animals. Several studies have investigated the role of stray cats as a fecal carrier of ESBL-producing bacteria. However, there are many genes and resistance mechanisms that can be detected in commensal E. coli, which, because of its genetic plasticity, is considered an indicator for monitoring antibiotic resistance. In this study, rectal swabs were collected from stray cats from colonies and shelters in the city of Monza (Monza Brianza, Italy) to isolate commensal E. coli. Phenotypic tests, such as the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the double disc test (DDST), and molecular analyses to detect antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) were used to study the resistance of these isolates. The results obtained confirm that stray cats can carry ESBL-producing E. coli (6.7%) and genes conferring resistance to other important antibiotic classes such as tetracyclines and sulfonamides.
Seepage Model of Heterogeneous Municipal Solid Waste Landfill and Application under Process of Waste Accumulation
Authors: Yang Rong , Ren Jianxi , Chang Xiaoke , Yang Kun
Published: November 2023

The distribution of leachate directly impacts the safety and stability of the landfill, so it is important to research the distribution of seepage characteristics and migration patterns of leachate. The study aims to investigate the impact of heterogeneous permeability distribution and clogging of the drainage layer on leachate transportation in landfills. To achieve this, a heterogeneous transient seepage model was developed. Results showed that when considering the heterogeneous permeability of the waste in the buried depth direction, the maximum perched water level was higher, which is not conducive to the safety and stability of the landfill. Taking Xi’an Jiangcungou Landfill as a research object, the maximum perched water level of each waste layer was higher compared to the homogeneous condition when considering the landfill process and heterogeneous permeability. The differential value ranged from 0.08 m to 1.88 m. Furthermore, the calculation results obtained from the heterogeneous seepage model were found to be in good agreement with both actual field data and referenced survey data, thus confirming the reliability of the model. These research findings not only offer technical support but also provide a solid theoretical foundation for leachate level control and safety and stability assessments.
Temporal and Seasonal Variations in a Phytoplankton Community Structure in Artificial Lake Uiam, South Korea
Authors: Im Jong-Kwon , Sim Youn-Bo , Hwang Soon-Jin , Byeon Myeong-Seop , Kang Tae-Gu
Published: November 2023

Lake Uiam is situated midway through a basin with dams at both the upstream and downstream ends; considerable environmental fluctuations have been observed here. However, studies on changes in environmental factors and plankton community fluctuations remain limited. This study analyzed the seasonal physicochemical factors and changes in the phytoplankton community structure in Lake Uiam (2015–2016). Organic matter, phosphorus, total suspended solids (TSS), and Chl-a concentrations were high in the summer. Seasonal changes in the dominant taxa followed the typical succession pattern of temperate phytoplankton, with Bacillariophyceae (Ulnaria acus) being dominant in spring and Cyanophyceae (Pseudanabaena limnetica) dominant in summer. However, Cryptophyceae (Rhodomonas sp.) showed unusually high dominance in autumn. Cell abundance showed no seasonal differences. Rhodomonas sp. was negatively correlated with water temperature, suggesting its dominance in spring and autumn. Cryptophyceae showed a significant correlation with Chl-a (0.708 **), indicating its contribution to spring Chl-a concentrations. Cryptophyceae (Rhodomonas sp. and Cryptomonas spp.) commonly appear in spring but are dominant in autumn in Lake Uiam. Despite disturbances from various environmental factors, they showed higher adaptability than other algae, resulting in their consistent appearance and dominance, differing from the general succession patterns of temperate phytoplankton.
Arsenic Contamination in Indian Groundwater: From Origin to Mitigation Approaches for a Sustainable Future
Authors: Marghade Deepali , Mehta Girish , Shelare Sagar , Jadhav Ganesh , Nikam Keval Chandrakant
Published: November 2023

The presence of arsenic in Indian groundwater poses a significant threat to both the ecosystem and public health. This review paper comprehensively addresses the topic, encompassing the underlying causes and potential solutions. Health consequences examines the serious health risks of drinking water contaminated with arsenic. Arsenic’s complex geochemical processes of mobilization, transport, and distribution in groundwater are investigated. Mathematical models, geographical analysis, and data-driven modeling are discussed in the context of Indian groundwater. A comprehensive assessment of removal methodologies and the various factors influencing the mobility of arsenic is addressed. It was documented that community water purifiers and plants have successfully eliminated approximately 90% of arsenic, and the implementation of rainwater collection systems has also enhanced the overall quality of water. This review aims to address existing knowledge gaps and assess various strategies aimed at ensuring a more secure and sustainable water supply for the regions in question. The ultimate goal is to enhance the overall well-being of the population and protect the integrity of local ecosystems.
Enhanced Groundwater Protection and Management Using Gravity and Geoelectrical Data (Valls Basin, Spain)
Authors: Sendrós Alex , Himi Mahjoub , Rivero Lluís , Lovera Raúl , Urruela Aritz , Tapias Josefina C. , Casas Albert
Published: November 2023

The basis for the protection and prevention of groundwater pollution lies in the accurate assessment of vulnerability in terms of the exposure of groundwater bodies to contaminants before they are potentially discharged into the environment. The vulnerability assessment consists of calculating the ease with which pollutants can reach the aquifer from the surface through the vadose zone, which effectively reduces the pollutant load when the transit time is long. Index methods are mostly used, as they are based on input data that are readily available, easy to implement and interpret, and which are simple and practical. However, there are also limitations, as some methods are somewhat subjective and provide only a qualitative approximation. This case study aims to develop a methodology that can quantitively estimate the hydrogeological parameters of the aquifer formations of the Valls basin using geophysical methods and the Dar Zarrouk parameters. The specific treatment carried out on data from gravity stations and vertical electric soundings, supported by the available well data, allows for the delineation of the most favourable areas for the exploitation of groundwater resources (higher hydraulic transmissivity) and the areas most susceptible to pollution (with a shorter transit time) on a regional scale. Geophysical methods have proved useful, sustainably providing valuable information without the need to drill new boreholes that could act as preferential pathways for pollutants into the aquifer.
Risk-minimizing social practices in ensuring information security
Authors:   Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (national research university) Russia, Moscow region, Dolgoprudny, Zotov Vitaly Vladimirovich , Krivoukhov Anatoly Anatolyevich ,   Kursk State Agrarian University named after I. I. Ivanov 70 K. Marx Street, Kursk, Russia
Published: November 2023

Modern society qualifies not only as a society of knowledge and information, but also as a society of risk, threats, danger. The digital society is in a state of turbulence, which is interpreted by the individual as an increase in risks. Risk and digital reality are two markers of the society of the XXI century. In the context of the formation of a digital «risk society» within the framework of socio-humanitarian discourse, the task of developing an approach to information security capable of adapting a person to avalanche-like increasing risks is actualized. Turning to risk-minimizing practices helps to organize the process of ensuring information security, taking into account the real significance of emerging dangers and threats in the information and communication environment. The article defines and systematizes a cluster of concepts describing the phenomenon of digital risk and information security as part of such concepts: object (object) — danger (threat) — damage (harm) — risk — security. This makes it possible to define risk-minimizing practices in the information and communication environment as social practices that, due to unusual actions to reduce, weaken, eliminate and prevent dangers and threats, reduce the level of expectation of their occurrence and form a sense of freedom from the danger of loss; from doubt, anxiety or fear. It is concluded that risk-minimizing practices in the information and communication environment are social practices that, due to unusual actions to reduce, weaken, eliminate and prevent dangers and threats, reduce the level of expectation of their occurrence and form a sense of freedom from the danger (risk) of loss; freedom from doubt, anxiety or fear.
Demographic crisis in Japan
Authors:   Faculty of Public Administration and International Relations, FSBEI HE Southwest State University, Kursk, Greshilov Egor Timurovich
Published: November 2023

Demographic problems in the XXI century affect many modern states. In relation to each country, they have a certain character and have their own characteristics, based on the established traditions, the level and quality of life of the population, socio-economic indicators, social support of the population of the country from their governments. On the one hand, the problem of overpopulation is characteristic of the modern stage of human development. Individual States are characterized by a demographic explosion (India, countries of the African continent). Other states are experiencing a demographic crisis. This article examines the situation of the demographic crisis in Japan. Japan often attracts attention to itself by taking non-trivial decisions at the government level to solve problems of a socio-economic nature. In this regard, the purpose of the article was a comprehensive study of the demographic structure of the land of the rising sun, demographic trends, features of the demographic situation, as well as state policy measures to overcome the growth of demographic problems. The author investigates the main causes of the demographic crisis in Japan, the peculiarities of pension provision, the problems of population aging, poverty, and the peculiarities of the labor market in Japan. It is shown that the increase in the number of foreign labor did not fill the gap in the labor market. Therefore, the Japanese authorities plan to raise the retirement age and introduce a number of incentive measures for companies working with the elderly. The gradual aging of the population is just one of several unfavorable demographic trends in Japan. Another problem of no less concern to the authorities of this country is the phenomenon of «lone parasites». In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of crimes committed by elderly people. The data regularly published by the Japanese Statistical Office confirms the surprising trend of a very rapid increase in the number of prisoners of both sexes over 65 years of age. The article uses a variety of sources — media materials on the problem under study, scientific articles of researchers directly and indirectly devoted to the consideration of topical issues and problems of a demographic nature. The article makes extensive use of publicly available statistical data.