bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Supply Chain Network Centrality on Sustainable Mergers and Acquisitions: Evidence from China
Authors: Yuan Ming , Dang Jingya , Hong Yujie , Gao Di , Xu Ziyi
Published: September 2024

Mergers and acquisitions (M&As) are key drivers for resource integration and the operational efficiency of enterprises. Companies that hold central positions within supply chains may leverage their strategic location to reduce information asymmetry, enhancing their ability to engage in sustainable activities. However, research on the role of supply chain network centrality in M&A decisions remains underexplored. This study aims to empirically examine whether and how centrality in supply chain networks enhances the likelihood and success of M&A activities, contributing to both theory and practice in corporate strategy. In particular, we construct a novel measure of firm centrality within the supply chain and utilize panel data from Chinese A-share listed companies spanning 2008 to 2021. Our findings reveal that the central position of supply chain networks promotes the probability and frequency of mergers and acquisitions. Mechanism analysis reveals that gaining information advantages and relieving financial constraints are two key channels through which the supply chain network promotes mergers and acquisitions. Furthermore, the effects are more pronounced for firms with non-state ownership, with closer proximity to customers or suppliers, with higher operational risk, and with growth and decline phases. A series of robustness tests support these results, including alternative measures, alternative estimating methods, and sub-sample tests. Moreover, central supply chain companies exhibit better long-term financial performance following mergers and acquisitions. This paper enriches our understanding of the roles of supply chain networks in firms’ mergers and acquisitions and holds important practical implications for companies seeking to achieve sustainable and long-term development.
Machine Learning for the Sustainable Management of Depth Prediction and Load Optimization in River Convoys: An Amazon Basin Case Study
Authors: Campos Filho Lúcio Carlos Pinheiro , Figueiredo Nelio Moura de , Blanco Cláudio José Cavalcante , Tobias Maisa Sales Gama , Afonso Paulo
Published: September 2024

The seasonal fluctuation of river depths is a critical factor in designing cargo capacity for river convoys and logistics processes used for grain transportation in northern Brazil. Water level variations directly impact the load capacities of pusher convoys navigating the Amazon rivers. This paper presents a machine learning model based on a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network developed with the aim of estimating the cargo capacities of river convoys one year in advance, which is essential for determining load capacities during dry periods. The prediction model was applied to the Tapajós River in the Amazon Basin, Brazil, where grain transportation is significant and relies on inland waterways. Navigability conditions were evaluated in terms of depth and geometric parameters. The results of this case study were satisfactory, validating the computational tool and enabling the assessment of capacity losses during dry periods and the identification of navigation bottlenecks. The main contributions of this work include optimizing river logistics, reducing costs, minimizing environmental impacts, and promoting the sustainable management of water resources in the Amazon. Conclusions drawn from the study indicate that the developed model is highly effective, with an R2 of 0.954 and RMSE of 0.095, demonstrating its potential to significantly enhance river convoy operations and support sustainable development in the region.
Sustainable Operation Strategy for Wet Flue Gas Desulfurization at a Coal-Fired Power Plant via an Improved Many-Objective Optimization
Authors: Huang Jianfeng , Zeng Zhuopeng , Hong Fenglian , Yang Qianhua , Wu Feng , Peng Shitong
Published: September 2024

Coal-fired power plants account for a large share of the power generation market in China. The mainstream method of desulfurization employed in the coal-fired power generation sector now is wet flue gas desulfurization. This process is known to have a high cost and be energy-/materially intensive. Due to the complicated desulfurization mechanism, it is challenging to improve the overall sustainability profile involving energy-, cost-, and resource-relevant objectives via traditional mechanistic models. As such, the present study formulated a data-driven many-objective model for the sustainability of the desulfurization process. We preprocessed the actual operation data collected from the desulfurization tower in a domestic ultra-supercritical coal-fired power plant with a 600 MW unit. The extreme random forest algorithm was adopted to approximate the objective functions as prediction models for four objectives, namely, desulfurization efficiency, unit power consumption, limestone supply, and unit operation cost. Three metrics were utilized to evaluate the performance of prediction. Then, we incorporated differential evolution and non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-III to optimize the multiple parameters and obtain the Pareto front. The results indicated that the correlation coefficient (R2) values of the prediction models were greater than 0.97. Compared with the original operation condition, the operation under optimized parameters could improve the desulfurization efficiency by 0.25% on average and reduce energy, cost, and slurry consumption significantly. This study would help develop operation strategies to improve the sustainability of coal-fired power plants.
Numerical Simulation Study of Gas–Liquid–Solid Triphase Coupling in Fully Mechanized Excavation Faces with Variation in Dust Source Points
Authors: Wang Jianguo , Wang Bolan , Gai Jinmeng
Published: September 2024

In view of the current situation where research on the dust diffusion laws of different dust source points is limited and the gap with the actual field situation is too large; this study employs an innovative gas–liquid–solid triphase coupling method to investigate how dust moves and spreads in the fully mechanized excavation face 431305 at the Liangshuijing Mine; focusing on both the dust field and the dust–fog coupled field. The results indicate that using the long-pressure short-suction ventilation method; dust movement in the roadway is primarily influenced by the airflow; which can be classified into vortex; jet; and return flow regions. The analysis reveals that different dust source points affect dust distribution patterns. Dust source 1 generates the highest dust concentration; primarily accumulating on the duct side and return air side of the roadway. By contrast; dust source 2’s dust mainly gathers at the heading and the front of the cutting head. Dust sources 3 and 4 show lower dust concentrations near the top of the roadway. Dust source 5 achieves the most effective dust removal; aided by airflow and a suction fan; showcasing superior dust performance. A comprehensive comparison indicates that dust source 1 has the highest overall dust concentration. Therefore; further simulation of the distribution law of dust generated at dust source 1 under the action of water mist reveals that the dust concentration near the heading face is reduced from 2000 mg/m3 under the action of single air flow to about 1100 mg/m3. At t = 5 s; the spray droplets almost cover the entire tunneling face; leading to a significant decrease in dust concentration within 10–25 m from the tunneling face. Within 40 s; both coal dust and spray droplets are significantly reduced. The field measurement results verify the accuracy of the simulation results and provide certain guidance for promoting the sustainable development of the coal industry.
Upper Bounds of the Third Hankel Determinant for Bi-Univalent Functions in Crescent-Shaped Domains
Authors: Shakir Qasim Ali , Tayyah Adel Salim , Breaz Daniel , Cotîrlă Luminita-Ioana , Rapeanu Eleonora , Sakar Fethiye Müge
Published: September 2024

This paper investigates the third Hankel determinant, denoted H3(1), for functions within the subclass RS∑*(λ) of bi-univalent functions associated with crescent-shaped regions φ⦅z=z+1+z2. The primary aim of this study is to establish upper bounds for H3(1). By analyzing functions within this specific geometric context, we derive precise constraints on the determinant, thereby enhancing our understanding of its behavior. Our results and examples provide valuable insights into the properties of bi-univalent functions in crescent-shaped domains and contribute to the broader theory of analytic functions.
Enhancing MQTT-SN Security with a Lightweight PUF-Based Authentication and Encrypted Channel Establishment Scheme
Authors: Gong Xiang , Kou Ting , Li Yan
Published: September 2024

The communication of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) devices faces important security and privacy challenges. With the rapid increase in the number of devices, it is difficult for traditional security mechanisms to balance performance and security. Although schemes based on encryption and authentication exist, there are still difficulties in achieving lightweight security. In this paper, an authentication and key exchange scheme combining hardware security features and modern encryption technology is proposed for the MQTT-SN protocol, which is not considered security. The scheme uses Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) to generate unpredictable responses, and combines random numbers, time stamps, and shared keys to achieve two-way authentication and secure communication between devices and broker, effectively preventing network threats such as replay and man-in-the-middle attacks. Through verification, the proposed scheme has proved effective in terms of security and robustness, has computational and communication cost advantages compared with recent schemes, and provides higher availability.
Variable Lebesgue Space over Weighted Homogeneous Tree
Authors: Zhang Yuxun , Zhou Jiang
Published: September 2024

An infinite homogeneous tree is a special type of graph that has a completely symmetrical structure in all directions. For an infinite homogeneous tree T=(V,E) with the natural distance d defined on graphs and a weighted measure μ of exponential growth, the authors introduce the variable Lebesgue space Lp(·)(μ) over (V,d,μ) and investigate it under the global Hölder continuity condition for p(·). As an application, the strong and weak boundedness of the maximal operator relevant to admissible trapezoids on Lp(·)(μ) is obtained, and an unbounded example is presented.
Possible Causes of Extreme Variation of Benzo[a]pyrene Acute Toxicity Test on Daphnia magna
Authors: Zheng Zi-Yi , Yang Yu-Ting , Zhou Jing-Xuan , Peng Zhao-Xing , Ni Hong-Gang
Published: September 2024

There are enormous differences in benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) acute toxicity tests on Daphnia magna, according to previous publications. The explanations of the reasons for this extreme variation are necessary. In this context, the acute toxicity tests of different experiment conditions (light/dark, culture medium, and solvent) were conducted on Daphnia magna with BaP as the toxicant of concern. Based on the experiments above, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were employed to investigate the mechanisms of action. According to our results, the significant influence of light exposure on the acute toxicity test of BaP (p < 0.05) on D. magna was recorded. On the basis of the MD simulations, it was possible that BaP may not affect the normal operation of Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase directly, and it could be quickly transferred from the body through Glutathione S-transferase and Cytochromes P450. Therefore, when exposed to light, the oxidative stress process intensifies, causing damage to Daphnia magna. Apparently, the ecotoxicity tests based on inhibition for D. magna cannot adequately reflect the toxic effects of BaP.
Automated High-Precision Recognition of Solar Filaments Based on an Improved U2-Net
Authors: Jiang Wendong , Li Zhengyang
Published: September 2024

Solar filaments are a significant solar activity phenomenon, typically observed in full-disk solar observations in the H-alpha band. They are closely associated with the magnetic fields of solar active regions, solar flare eruptions, and coronal mass ejections. With the increasing volume of observational data, the automated high-precision recognition of solar filaments using deep learning is crucial. In this study, we processed full-disk H-alpha solar images captured by the Chinese H-alpha Solar Explorer in 2023 to generate labels for solar filaments. The preprocessing steps included limb-darkening removal, grayscale transformation, K-means clustering, particle erosion, multiple closing operations, and hole filling. The dataset containing solar filament labels is constructed for deep learning. We developed the Attention U2-Net neural network for deep learning on the solar dataset by introducing an attention mechanism into U2-Net. In the results, Attention U2-Net achieved an average Accuracy of 0.9987, an average Precision of 0.8221, an average Recall of 0.8469, an average IoU of 0.7139, and an average F1-score of 0.8323 on the solar filament test set, showing significant improvements compared to other U-net variants.
The Effective Baryon–Baryon Potential with Configuration Mixing in Quark Models
Authors: Zhu Xinmei , Huang Hongxia , Ping Jialun
Published: September 2024

The effective baryon–baryon potential can be derived in the framework of the quark model. The configurations with different quark spatial distributions are mixed naturally when two baryons get close. The effect of configuration mixing in the chiral quark model (ChQM) is studied by calculating the effective potential between two non-strange baryons in the channels IJ=01,10 and 03. For comparison, the results of the color screening model (CSM) are also presented. Generally, configuration mixing will lower the potential when the separation between two baryons is small, and its effect will be ignorable when the separation becomes large. Due to the screened color confinement, the effect of configuration mixing is rather large, which leads to stronger intermediate-range attraction in the CSM, while the effect of configuration mixing is small in the ChQM due to the quadratic confinement and σ-meson exchange, which is responsible for the intermediate-range attraction.
Determinants of Agricultural Land Valuation in the Province of Huambo, Angola: A Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Lote Ezequiel , Tavares Fernando Oliveira
Published: September 2024

This work aims at presenting a review of the literature on agricultural land valuation, highlighting the elements of real estate valuation and the factors that determine the price of an agricultural land in the province of Huambo in Angola. A quantitative methodology was used, based on the collection of data from 612 agricultural properties that were up for negotiation in the province of Huambo in Angola. The valuation of an agricultural land is of great importance for development and economic growth in Africa. In the assumed methodology, multiple linear regression was employed. The results allow us to conclude that variables such as the land being legal, having electricity, being located on the urban fringe with possible future urbanization, being a location close to the urban center, facing a busy road, and allowing for the easy use of machines have a significant impact on the value of the land in question. This study contributes to the development and appreciation of the agricultural world, which are aspects that can greatly help in improving the environment and sustainability of the rural world.
Decoding Socio-Economic Demographic Trends: The Power of Spatial Econometrics and Geographic Analysis
Authors: Anastasiou Evgenia
Published: September 2024

Greece is experiencing a steady population decline caused by the declining migratory and natural balance. This research investigates the spatial impact of socio-economic and demographic factors on the natural population balance in Greece for the spatial zoning of municipal administrative units. Using geographically weighted regression (GWR) on data from the 2011 Greek census, the research explores the local impacts of factors like housing repair permits, vacant housing, employment rates, population inflows, distance from regional centers, aging, gender ratios, and education levels. An initial ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was conducted, revealing significant spatial variation and emphasizing the necessity of spatial econometric methods. The GWR model proved to be more effective in accounting for the variance in the data, removing spatial autocorrelation and revealing high local variation. Results show the high negative impact of the aging index in Western Greece and the Ionian islands, the counterintuitive positive effect of the gender ratio in urban areas, and the positive influence of population inflows in high-migration regions like Northern Greece and Crete. The results of this study underline the need to utilize spatial econometric methods for a precise and detailed understanding of demographic trends and provide valuable insights for localized strategies to address demographic challenges.
Detection of Porcine Circovirus (PCV) Using CRISPR-Cas12a/13a Coupled with Isothermal Amplification
Authors: Wang Huijuan , Zhou Gang , Liu Huiming , Peng Ruqun , Sun Tingli , Li Sujuan , Chen Mingjie , Wang Yingsi , Shi Qingshan , Xie Xiaobao
Published: September 2024

The impact of porcine circovirus (PCV) on the worldwide pig industry is profound, leading to notable economic losses. Early and prompt identification of PCV is essential in managing and controlling this disease effectively. A range of detection techniques for PCV have been developed and primarily divided into two categories focusing on nucleic acid or serum antibody identification. The methodologies encompass conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qPCR), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), immunofluorescence assay (IFA), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Despite their efficacy, these techniques are often impeded by the necessity for substantial investment in equipment, specialized knowledge, and intricate procedural steps, which complicate their application in real-time field detections. To surmount these challenges, a sensitive, rapid, and specific PCV detection method using Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-Cas12a/13a coupled with isothermal amplification, such as enzymatic recombinase amplification (ERA), recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), has been developed. This novel method has undergone meticulous optimization for detecting PCV types 2, 3, and 4, boasting a remarkable sensitivity to identify a single copy per microliter. The specificity of this technique is exemplary, with no observable interaction with other porcine viruses such as PEDV, PRRSV, PRV, and CSFV. Its reliability has been validated with clinical samples, where it produced a perfect alignment with qPCR findings, showcasing a 100% coincidence rate. The elegance of merging CRISPR-Cas technology with isothermal amplification assays lies in its on-site testing without the need for expensive tools or trained personnel, rendering it exceptionally suitable for on-site applications, especially in resource-constrained swine farming environments. This review assesses and compares the process and characteristics inherent in the utilization of ERA/LAMP/RPA-CRISPR-Cas12a/Cas13a methodologies for the detection of PCV, providing critical insights into their practicality and effectiveness.
High-Throughput Sequencing Methods for the Detection of Two Strawberry Viruses in Post-Entry Quarantine
Authors: Nunes-Leite Luciano , Liefting Lia W. , Waite David W. , Khan Subuhi , Thompson Jeremy R.
Published: September 2024

High-throughput sequencing (HTS) technologies may be a useful tool for testing imported plant germplasm for multiple pathogens present in a sample, offering strain-generic detection not offered by most PCR-based assays. Metatranscriptomics (RNAseq) and tiled amplicon PCR (TA-PCR) were tested as HTS-based techniques to detect viruses present in low titres. Strawberry mottle virus (SMoV), an RNA virus, and strawberry vein banding virus (SVBV), a DNA virus, were selected for comparison of RNAseq and TA-PCR with quantitative PCR assays. RNAseq of plant ribosomal RNA-depleted samples of low viral titre was used to obtain datasets from 3 M to 120 M paired-end (PE) reads. RNAseq demonstrated PCR-like sensitivity, able to detect as few as 10 viral copies/µL when 60 million (M) PE reads were generated. The custom TA-PCR primer panels designed for each virus were successfully used to recover most of the reference genomes for each virus. Single- and multiple-target TA-PCR allowed the detection of viruses in samples with around 10 viral copies/µL with a minimum continuous sequence length recovery of 500 bp. The limit of detection of the HTS-based protocols described here is comparable to that of quantitative PCR assays. This work lays the groundwork for an increased flexibility in HTS detection of plant viruses.
Variability of Hepatitis C Treatment Cascade Outcomes among People Who Inject Drugs across Geographically Diverse Clinics in the US: The HERO Study
Authors: Lopes Snehal S. , Heo Moonseong , Pericot-Valverde Irene , Norton Brianna L. , Taylor Lynn E. , Tsui Judith I. , Mehta Shruti H. , Feinberg Judith , Kim Arthur Y. , Lum Paula J. , Page Kimberly , Murray-Krezan Cristina , Anderson Jessica , Litwin Alain H. ,   the HERO Study Group
Published: September 2024

Heterogeneity of outcomes across different clinical trial study sites is often inevitable. Understanding how outcomes differ by site is important for planning future programs and studies. We examined the extent of heterogeneity of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment cascade outcomes among persons who inject drugs (PWIDs) across sixteen clinical sites utilized in the HERO Study—a pragmatic randomized trial of HCV treatment support. Treatment cascade outcomes included averages of overall treatment adherence and proportions of treatment initiation, treatment completion, sustained virologic response (SVR) test completion, and SVR achievement. The HERO study utilized 16 clinical sites across the United States (US): eight opioid treatment programs (OTPs) and eight community health centers (CHCs). Variability of the outcomes across the 16 clinical sites was assessed using ranges and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) estimated from mixed-effects linear or logistic regression models. Treatment initiation was analyzed in the intention-to-treat (ITT) sample (N = 755); treatment completion, adherence, and SVR test completion in the modified ITT (mITT) sample, which is the sample that initiated treatment (N = 623); and SVR achievement in the mITT and per-protocol (PP, N = 501) samples. Across the 16 clinical sites, the range observed in the averages of overall treatment adherence was from 68% to 81% [ICC = 0.026 (0.005, 0.054)], and the ranges of proportions observed were from 68% to 96% for treatment initiation [ICC (95% CI) = 0.086 (0.051, 0.155)], 60% to 100% for treatment completion [ICC = 0.049 (0.008, 0.215)], 54% to 95% for SVR test completion [ICC = 0.096 (0.006, 0.177)], 46% to 90% for SVR achievement in the mITT sample [ICC = 0.070 (0.014, 0.122)], and 76% to 100% for SVR achievement in the PP sample [ICC = 0.143 (0.021, 0.422)]. The variability of the outcomes across 16 US sites treating HCV among PWIDs appears to be substantial in view of the ranges and ICC values of the outcomes. It is imperative to develop tailored interventions to target the sources of variability and reduce barriers at the patient, provider, clinic, and state policy levels to facilitate more equitable access to HCV treatment and reduce heterogeneity in treatment outcomes.
Surveillance of Wildlife Viruses: Insights from South Australia’s Monitoring of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV GI.1 and GI.2)
Authors: Peacock David E. , Iannella Amy , Sinclair Ron G. , Kovaliski John
Published: September 2024

Surveillance of wildlife virus impacts can be passive or active. Both approaches have their strengths and weaknesses, especially regarding cost and knowledge that can be gained. Monitoring of rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (GI.1 and GI.2) in South Australia has utilised both strategies and their methods and gained insights are discussed. Active strategies to monitor the continuing impact of rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus 2 (GI.2) on susceptible lagomorphs in countries such as the USA, Mexico, South Africa, Spain, France and Portugal are encouraged to gain critical insights into the evolution, spread and impact of this virus. Furthermore, there are lessons here for the international monitoring of diseases in wildlife, particularly where there is a risk of them becoming zoonotic.
Selection Pressure Profile Suggests Species Criteria among Tick-Borne Orthoflaviviruses
Authors: Deviatkin Andrei A. , Aleshina Yulia A. , Karganova Galina G. , Lukashev Alexander N.
Published: September 2024

Orthoflaviviruses are arthropod-borne viruses that are transmitted by mosquitoes or ticks and cause a range of significant human diseases. Among the most important tick-borne orthoflaviviruses (TBFVs) is tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), which is endemic in Eurasia, and Powassan virus, which is endemic in Asia and North America. There is a significant controversy regarding species assignment in the tick-borne encephalitis virus complex due to the complex phylogenetic, serological, ecological, and pathogenetic properties of viruses. Comparing the rate of non-synonymous to synonymous substitutions (dN/dS) over the course of tick-borne orthoflavivirus diversification suggests that there is a very strong stabilizing selection (Nei-Gojobori dN/dS < 0.1) among tick-borne orthoflaviviruses that differ by less than 13.5% amino acid/21.4% nucleotide sequences, and discretely more rapid accumulation of non-synonymous substitutions (dN/dS > 0.13) among more divergent viruses that belong to distinct species. This pattern was similarly observed in genome regions encoding structural (E) and non-structural (NS3) proteins. Below this distance threshold, viruses appear fit and strongly tied to their ecological niche, whereas above the threshold, a greater degree of adaptation appears necessary. This species criterion suggests that all subtypes of TBEV, all related ovine/caprine encephalomyelitis viruses, and Omsk hemorrhagic fever virus (OHFV) together correspond to a single species. Within this species, viruses make up 11 subtypes that are reliably segregated by a 10% nucleotide distance cut-off suggested earlier for TBEV. The same 10% subtype cut-off suggests that Powassan virus includes two subtypes, Powassan and Deer Tick virus.
Viral Infections and Their Ability to Modulate Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Response Pathways
Authors: da Fonseca Flávio Guimarães , Serufo Ângela Vieira , Leão Thiago Lima , Lourenço Karine Lima
Published: September 2024

In eukaryotic cells, the endoplasmic reticulum is particularly important in post-translational modification of proteins before they are released extracellularly or sent to another endomembrane system. The correct three-dimensional folding of most proteins occurs in the ER lumen, which has an oxidative environment that is essential for the formation of disulfide bridges, which are important in maintaining protein structure. The ER is a versatile organelle that ensures the correct structure of proteins and is essential in the synthesis of lipids and sterols, in addition to offering support in the maintenance of intracellular calcium. Consequently, the cells needed to respond to demands caused by physiological conditions and pathological disturbances in the organelle homeostasis, leading to proper functioning of the cell or even programmed cell death. Disturbances to the ER function trigger a response to the accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins, known as the unfolded protein response. Such disturbances include abiotic stress, pharmacological agents, and intracellular pathogens, such as viruses. When misfolded proteins accumulate in the ER, they can undergo ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation through components of the ER-associated degradation system. Once a prolonged activity of the UPR pathway occurs, indicating that homeostasis cannot be reestablished, components of this pathway induce cell death by apoptosis. Here, we discuss how viruses have evolved ways to counteract UPR responses to maximize replication. This evolutionary viral ability is important to understand cell pathology and should be taken into account when designing therapeutic interventions and vaccines.
Enhanced Expression of the L1R Gene of Vaccinia Virus by the tPA Signal Sequence Inserted in a Fowlpox-Based Recombinant Vaccine
Authors: Radaelli Antonia , Zanotto Carlo , Brambilla Chiara , Adami Tommaso , De Giuli Morghen Carlo
Published: September 2024

The use of Vaccinia virus (VACV) as a preventive vaccine against variola, the etiological agent of smallpox, led to the eradication of smallpox as a human disease. The L1 protein, a myristylated transmembrane protein present on the surface of mature virions, plays a significant role in infection and morphogenesis, is well-conserved in all orthopoxviruses, and is the target of neutralizing antibodies. DNA recombinant vaccines expressing this protein were successfully used, but they showed lower efficacy in non-human and human primates when used alone, and viral-vectored fowlpox vaccines were already proved to increase immunogenicity when used as a boost. Here, we constructed a novel fowlpox-based recombinant (FPtPA-L1R), in which the tissue plasminogen activator signal sequence was linked to the 5′ end of the L1R gene to drive the L1 protein into the cellular secretion pathway. FPtPA-L1R expresses a functional heterologous protein that can be immunoprecipitated by hyperimmune rabbit serum. The protein shows cytoplasmic and membrane subcellular localizations and long-lasting expression in CEF, non-human primate Vero and human MRC-5 cells. The tissue plasminogen activator signal sequence can thus contribute significantly to the expression of the L1 protein and may enhance the immunogenicity of a putative DNA/FP prime–boost vaccine.
Comparative Ability of Various Immunosuppressants as Adjuvants on the Activity of T1D Vaccine
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Xie Mengxin , Li Tengjiao , Shi Jiandong , Wu Meini , Zhang Shihan , Sun Jing , Hu Yunzhang
Published: September 2024

Background: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disorder characterised by the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreatic islets, resulting from a breakdown in immunological tolerance. Currently, T1D treatment primarily relies on insulin replacement or immunosuppressive therapies. However, these approaches often have significant drawbacks, including adverse effects, high costs, and limited long-term efficacy. Consequently, there is a pressing need for innovative immunotherapeutic strategies capable of inducing antigen-specific tolerance and protecting beta cells from autoimmune destruction. Among the various antigens, β-cell antigens like 65 kDa glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD65) have been explored as vaccine candidates for T1D. Despite their potential, their effectiveness in humans remains modest, necessitating the use of appropriate adjuvants to enhance the vaccine’s protective effects. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of kynurenine (KYN), dexamethasone (DXMS), tacrolimus (FK506), and aluminium hydroxide (Alum) in combination with the GAD65 phage vaccine as adjuvants. Results: Our findings demonstrate that KYN, when used in conjunction with the GAD65 vaccine, significantly enhances the vaccine’s immunosuppressive effects. Compared to dexamethasone, FK506, and Alum adjuvants, KYN more effectively reduced the incidence and delayed the onset of T1D, preserved β-cell function, and promoted the induction of regulatory T cells and antigen-specific tolerance. These results suggest that KYN combined with vaccines could offer superior preventive and therapeutic benefits for T1D compared to existing treatments. Additionally, we investigated the dose-dependent effects of the GAD65 vaccine by including a low-dose group in our study. The results indicated that reducing the vaccine dose below 1010 plaque-forming units (pfu) did not confer any protective advantage or therapeutic benefit in combination with KYN. This finding underscores that 1010 pfu is the minimum effective dose for the GAD65 vaccine in achieving a protective response. In conclusion, KYN shows considerable promise as an adjuvant for the GAD65 vaccine in T1D therapy, potentially offering a more effective and durable treatment option than current immunosuppressive strategies.
HPV Vaccination Coverage in Brazil’s State of Paraná: Spatial Distribution and Advances in Public Health
Authors: Pelloso Fernando Castilho , Pazin Daiane Cristina , Silva Lincoln Luís , Carvalho Maria Dalva de Barros , Borghesan Deise Helena Pelloso , Consolaro Marcia Edilaine Lopes , Santos Lander dos , Ribeiro Helena Fiats , Stevanato Kely Paviani , Marques Vlaudimir Dias , Camparoto Camila Wohlenberg , Pujals Constanza , Pedroso Raissa Bocchi , Pelloso Sandra Marisa
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: To analyze the spatial distribution of HPV vaccination coverage in relation to sociodemographic variables in a state of Southern Brazil. Methods: This was an ecological, retrospective study with secondary data from the Department of Information Technology of the Unified Health System/Ministry of Health from 2015 to 2022. The cohort method was used to calculate vaccination coverage. Geographically weighted regression was used for the independent variables. Results: There was a 22.04% reduction in vaccination between the first and second doses. Coverage with the first dose of the vaccine reached 95.17% for the female population, 64.67% for the male population, and 79.57% for both sexes. In 50.62% of cities, coverage exceeded 90% for both sexes. In 80.45% of cities, the recommended coverage for females was achieved. The variable municipal performance was positively significant for the increase in vaccination coverage in 45.45% of the regions for girls, 18.18% for boys, and 36.36% for both sexes. The family health strategy variable was significant in 9.09% of the regions for girls and both sexes. The education variable showed an inverse significance for girls in 40.90%, for boys in 18.18%, and for both sexes in 36.36% of the regions. Conclusions: HPV vaccination declined between the first and second doses, with high first-dose coverage among females and moderate coverage among males. Municipal performance notably impacted coverage, particularly for girls. The family health strategy was relevant in specific regions, while educational factors had a variable effect. Addressing these variables may enhance vaccination coverage and minimize the gap between doses.
Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness against Influenza A-Associated Outpatient and Emergency-Department-Attended Influenza-like Illness during the Delayed 2022–2023 Season in Beijing, China
Authors: Zhang Li , Lu Guilan , Ma Chunna , Zhang Jiaojiao , Li Jia , Duan Wei , Ma Jiaxin , Shi Weixian , Wang Yingying , Sun Ying , Zhang Daitao , Wang Quanyi , Huo Da
Published: September 2024

Background: During the 2022–2023 influenza season, the influenza activities in most regions of China were postponed, including Beijing. The unusually delayed influenza epidemic posed a challenge to the effectiveness of the influenza vaccine. Methods: Using the test-negative design, we evaluated influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) during the 2022–2023 influenza season against influenza A-associated outpatient and emergency-department-attended influenza-like illness (ILI) in Beijing, China, from 9 January to 30 April 2023. Results: The analysis included 8301 medically attended ILI patients, of which 1342 (46.2%) had influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, 1554 (53.4%) had influenza A(H3N2), and 11 (0.4%) had co-infection of the two viruses. VE against influenza A-associated ILI patients was 23.2% (95% CI: −6.5% to 44.6%) overall, and 23.1%, 9.9%, and 33.8% among children aged 6 months to 17 years, adults aged 18–59 years, and adults aged ≥60 years, respectively. VE against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and against influenza A(H3N2) were 36.2% (95% CI: −1.9% to 60.1%) and 9.5% (95% CI: −34.1% to 39.0%), respectively. VE of the group with vaccination intervals of 14–90 days (70.1%, 95% CI: −145.4 to 96.4) was higher than that of the groups with a vaccination interval of 90–149 days (18.7%, 95% CI: −42.4% to 53.6%) and ≥150 days (21.2%, 95% CI: −18.8% to 47.7%). Conclusions: A moderate VE against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and a low VE against influenza A(H3N2) were observed in Beijing during the 2022–2023 influenza season, a season characterized with a delayed and high-intensity influenza epidemic. VE appears to be better within three months after vaccination. Our findings indicate a potential need for the optimization of vaccination policies and underscore the importance of continuous monitoring of influenza to enhance vaccines and optimizing vaccination timing.
T-Cell Immune Responses to SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Vaccination
Authors: Notarbartolo Samuele
Published: September 2024

The innate and adaptive immune systems collaborate to detect SARS-CoV-2 infection, minimize the viral spread, and kill infected cells, ultimately leading to the resolution of the infection. The adaptive immune system develops a memory of previous encounters with the virus, providing enhanced responses when rechallenged by the same pathogen. Such immunological memory is the basis of vaccine function. Here, we review the current knowledge on the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination, focusing on the pivotal role of T cells in establishing protective immunity against the virus. After providing an overview of the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, we describe the main features of SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, including cross-reactive T cells, generated in patients with different degrees of COVID-19 severity, and of Spike-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells induced by vaccines. Finally, we discuss T-cell responses to SARS-CoV-2 variants and hybrid immunity and conclude by highlighting possible strategies to improve the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination.
Effect of Fine-Pore Aeration Tube Layout on Dissolved Oxygen Distribution and Aeration Performance in Large-Scale Pond
Authors: Tauviqirrahman Mohammad , Akram Ghinna Nur , Muchammad M.
Published: September 2024

Dissolved oxygen (DO) is a crucial water quality characteristic in the cultivation of vannamei shrimp. Increasing the DO concentration in shrimp ponds can be carried out using the aeration method with a tool called an aerator. In this study, types of fine-pore aeration tubes are chosen. This aerator offers multiple benefits, such as superior aeration efficiency, effortless installation, and minimal clogging. In practice, fine-pore aeration tubes can be arranged according to needs, so the layout used can influence the resulting aeration performance. This research uses the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method to analyze DO distribution, water circulation, and aeration performance (KLa20, SOTR, and SOTE) produced in various aerator layouts, namely straight-type, ring-type, and square-type, in a vannamei shrimp pond. The results show that the straight-type layout has the best DO distribution because it is spread throughout the pond area. The square-type layout has the best water circulation because it has the largest area with water velocities of less than 5 cm/s. The optimal aeration performance was achieved with the straight-type layout, which demonstrated a KLa20 value of 3.16 h−1, SOTR value of 19.20 kg/h, and SOTE of 29.30%.
Delineation of the Hydrogeological Functioning of a Karst Aquifer System Using a Combination of Environmental Isotopes and Artificial Tracers: The Case of the Sierra Seca Range (Andalucía, Spain)
Authors: Morales-González Antonio Lope , Jódar Jorge , Moral-Martos Francisco , Jiménez-Espinosa Rosario , Gázquez Fernando , González-Ramón Antonio
Published: September 2024

The Sierra Seca aquifer system is located in the northeast (NE) of the province of Granada, in the Prebetic Domain (Betic Cordillera). It is composed of different aquifer units hosted in the Lower Cretaceous and Upper Cretaceous limestones. The two aquifers are separated by a low permeability marl layer, which effectively acts as a barrier between them. To outline the behavior of the hydrogeological system, 407 samples of precipitation and 67 samples of groundwater were obtained from May 2020 to Oct. 2022 and isotopically (δ18O and δ2H) analyzed. For the estimation of the recharge elevation, a new methodology has been applied to estimate the isotopic content of recharge as a function of precipitation. This allowed the evaluation of the vertical gradient of both precipitation (∇Zδ18OP=−2.9 ‰/km) and aquifer recharge (−4.4 ‰/km≤∇Zδ18OR≤−2.9 ‰/km). Therefore, estimating (1) the recharge zone elevation associated with the aquifer system, which is comprised between 1500 and 1700 m a.s.l., and (2) the transit time of recharge to reach the outflow point of the aquifer system, which varies between 4 and 5 months, is possible. Additionally, three tracer tests were conducted to outline the hydrologic connection between the recharge and discharge zones of the aquifer system. The results show that the Fuente Alta spring drains the limestones of the Lower Cretaceous, while La Natividad spring does the same with the limestones of the Upper Cretaceous. In the case of the Enmedio spring, groundwater discharge is related to infiltration through the streambed of the watercourse fed by the Fuente Alta spring.
An Analytical Solution for Characterizing Mine Water Recharge of Water Source Heat Pump in Abandoned Coal Mines
Authors: Tu Kun , Pan Xiaoqiang , Zhang Hongwei , Li Xiang , Zhao Hongyi
Published: September 2024

Due to tremendous mining operations, large quantities of abandoned mines with considerable underground excavated space have formed in China during the past decades. This provides huge potential for geothermal energy production from mine water in abandoned coal mines to supply clean heating and cooling for buildings using heat pump technologies. In this study, an analytical model describing the injection pressure of mine water recharge for water source heat pumps in abandoned coal mines is developed. The analytical solution in the Laplace domain for the injection pressure is derived and the influences of different parameters on the injection pressure are investigated. This study indicates that a smaller pumping rate results in a smaller injection pressure, while smaller values of the hydraulic conductivity and the thickness of equivalent aquifer induce larger injection pressures. The well distance has insignificantly influenced the injection pressure at the beginning, but a smaller well distance leads to a larger injection pressure at later times. Additionally, the sensitivity analysis, conducted to assess the behavior of injection pressure with concerning changes in each input parameter, shows that the pumping rate and the hydraulic conductivity have a large influence on injection pressure compared with other parameters.
Non-Intrusive Water Surface Velocity Measurement Based on Deep Learning
Authors: An Guocheng , Du Tiantian , He Jin , Zhang Yanwei
Published: September 2024

Accurate assessment of water surface velocity (WSV) is essential for flood prevention, disaster mitigation, and erosion control within hydrological monitoring. Existing image-based velocimetry techniques largely depend on correlation principles, requiring users to input and adjust parameters to achieve reliable results, which poses challenges for users lacking relevant expertise. This study presents RivVideoFlow, a user-friendly, rapid, and precise method for WSV. RivVideoFlow combines two-dimensional and three-dimensional orthorectification based on Ground Control Points (GCPs) with a deep learning-based multi-frame optical flow estimation algorithm named VideoFlow, which integrates temporal cues. The orthorectification process employs a homography matrix to convert images from various angles into a top-down view, aligning the image coordinates with actual geographical coordinates. VideoFlow achieves superior accuracy and strong dataset generalization compared to two-frame RAFT models due to its more effective capture of flow velocity continuity over time, leading to enhanced stability in velocity measurements. The algorithm has been validated on a flood simulation experimental platform, in outdoor settings, and with synthetic river videos. Results demonstrate that RivVideoFlow can robustly estimate surface velocity under various camera perspectives, enabling continuous real-time dynamic measurement of the entire flow field. Moreover, RivVideoFlow has demonstrated superior performance in low, medium, and high flow velocity scenarios, especially in high-velocity conditions where it achieves high measurement precision. This method provides a more effective solution for hydrological monitoring.
Which Fish Predators Can Tell Us the Most about Changes in the Ecosystem of the Pomeranian Bay in the Southwest Baltic Proper?
Authors: Dąbrowski Jarosław , Więcaszek Beata , Brysiewicz Adam , Czerniejewski Przemysław
Published: September 2024

The results of our preliminary studies indicated that the diets of predatory fishes can be bioindicators of faunistic changes in ecosystems and indirectly of changes taking place in aquatic environments in the Pomeranian Bay. We examined the diet composition of top predators Gadus morhua, Sander lucioperca, Perca fluviatilis, and the mesopredator Neogobius melanostomus. The diet composition of the perch, pikeperch, and round goby in the Pomeranian Bay was analyzed for the first time. Our findings indicated that perch, an euryphagous species, is the best potential bioindicator because it is present in the area studied most of the year and has a low to moderate feeding index (FI). Baltic cod, also an euryphagous species, could be a good bioindicator in the areas where it is abundant and occurs frequently, but not in the Pomeranian Bay, where it is caught mainly in the fall. Round goby, which is present in the area studied and had a low FI, is a stenophagous species that preys mainly on benthic species, while pikeperch had a very high FI and the least number of prey species in its diet. The results of trophic interaction analysis among the predators analyzed and their non-native/invasive prey are also provided.
Experimental Design, Statistical Analysis, and Modeling of the Reduction in Methane Emissions from Dam Lake Treatment Using Agro-Industrial Biochar: A New Methane Capture Index
Authors: Yapıcıoğlu Pelin Soyertaş , Yeşilnacar Mehmet İrfan
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to reduce the methane (CH4) emissions originating from dam lake treatment using malt dust-derived biochar, which is an agro-industrial byproduct of the brewery industry. Optimum operating and water quality parameters for CH4 reduction were determined using statistical analyses based on the Box–Behnken design method. Also, a Monte Carlo simulation was performed to determine the correlation between CH4 emissions and operating parameters. According to the simulation, dissolved oxygen (DO) and the oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) had the highest correlation with CH4 emissions, with values of 92.03% and 94.57%, respectively. According to the Box–Behnken design methodology, the optimum operating parameters were 4 mg/L of dissolved oxygen, −359 mV of ORP, and 7.5 pH for the minimum CH4 emissions. There was a reported reduction of up to 19.4% in CH4 emissions for the dam lake treatment using malt dust-derived biochar. Finally, a new methane capture index, based on the biochar application (MCI), was developed and validated. The largest methane capture capacity was related to the malt dust-derived biochar produced at the lowest temperature (M1).