bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Environmental Assessment of Rigid, Flexible, and Perpetual Pavements: A Case Study of Texas
Authors: Walubita Lubinda F. , Martinez-Arguelles Gilberto , Polo-Mendoza Rodrigo , Ick-Lee Sang , Fuentes Luis
Published: August 2022

Unlike conventional pavements with a service life of 20~30 years, perpetual pavements (PPs) are designed to have a 50-year service life without requiring major maintenance and rehabilitation (M&R) activities. In this way, PPs are more cost-effective than conventional rigid pavements (CRPs) and conventional flexible pavements (CFPs). Nonetheless, even though the economic and mechanical aspects of PPs have been widely studied and well documented, the literature is limited regarding the environmental assessment of PPs. Consequently, this research estimated the environmental burden associated with five pavement structures (one CRP, one CFP, and three PP structures) through the life-cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. Notably, the PaLATE computational tool was used to carry out the LCAs. The results indicated that for CFP, most of the environmental impacts are generated by the M&R activities. Otherwise, for CRP and PP structures, the most impact occurred during the initial construction stage. The study results also revealed that materials production is the sub-stage that most contributed to the generation of environmental detriments. Overall, this comparative case study concluded that the pavement alternative with the slightest environmental damage is the PP structure.
Effects of Prescribed Fire on Meadow Soil Chemical Properties in Nanwenghe Nature Reserve
Authors: Liu Kezhen , Shu Lifu , He Cheng
Published: August 2022

The Nanwenghe Nature Reserve is located in the Daxing’anling forest region, which is abundant meadow resource which is prone to fire in fire season every year. In this paper, the change in the soil chemical properties of burned stands was emphasized. The results showed that: (1) Soil organic matter (SOM) concentration in burned stands showed an extremely significant difference from that in the control stands (p < 0.01). Alkali-hydrolysable N, available K and total N in the burned stands were significantly lower than those in the control stands (p < 0.05). (2) Total P, total K, pH and available P in the burned stands were not significantly different from the concentrations in the control stands (p > 0.05). (3) Available K, total N, total P and total K concentration showed no significant difference from June to September. The pH values increased with a variance of 8%, and pH values in July, August and September were significantly different from those in June. SOM concentrations obtained in July, August and September increased significantly, compared to the concentrations in June (p < 0.05). Alkali-hydrolysable N showed a decreasing trend for all conditions.
Enforcing Double Materiality in Global Sustainability Reporting for Developing Economies: Reflection on Ghana’s Oil Exploration and Mining Sectors
Authors: Ng Artie W. , Yorke Sally Mingle , Nathwani Jatin
Published: August 2022

While the development of globally accepted sustainability reporting standards initiated by the IFRS Foundation has largely engaged stakeholders in developed economies, the stakes for developing economies could be compromised without an explicit consideration of their sustainability issues within this standard-setting framework. This paper examines the need to develop global sustainability reporting standards based on the principle of double materiality to warrant that both the target towards carbon net-zero by 2050 under the Paris Agreement and the subsequent promise to accelerate under COP26 are achieved with efficacy. Adopting a multiple-case study approach, this paper reveals the limitations of existing sustainability reporting in the absence of double materiality in a developing economy. Specifically, the analyses reveal limited climate-related disclosures among selected cases in Ghana. Available disclosures connote increasing GHG emissions over the period under consideration. This study also shows weak disclosure comparability across the companies following similar reporting standards. Overall, it argues that enforcement of double materiality to embrace sustainability issues impacting both developed and developing economies is necessary for an effective transformation towards a low-carbon global economy. It contributes to the existing body of knowledge by elucidating double materiality as a pertinent interdisciplinary concept and devising a holistic framework for the emerging global sustainability reporting system to underscore governance accountability for external costs to the environment. Global sustainability reporting standards with a myopic focus on conventional financial matters in the absence of double materiality remain a disclosure system with implausible impact on climate change.
Impact of Inventor’s Cooperation Network on Ambidextrous Innovation in Chinese AI Enterprises
Authors: Li Xiaoli , Li Kun , Zhou Hao
Published: August 2022

With the intensification of artificial intelligence (AI) industry competition, innovation has become an important practical way for companies to achieve sustainable development. In this context, it is important to study the transmission paths affecting the development of ambidextrous innovation in AI firms from the perspectives of inventor cooperation networks and technological knowledge base variety. This study uses a sample of 399 of China’s AI organizations from 2008 to 2017. We explore the impact of an inventor cooperation network on ambidextrous innovation and dissect the mediating role of technological knowledge base variety between inventor cooperation network and ambidextrous innovation. We find that inventor cooperation network structural hole and centrality have an inverted U-shape relationship with a firm’s ambidextrous innovation. Additionally, inventor cooperation network centrality has a positive effect on technological knowledge base variety. In addition, there is an inverted U-shaped relationship between inventor cooperative network structure holes and technological knowledge base variety. Meanwhile, the research also finds that the unrelated variety of technological knowledge base mediates the relationship between the inventor cooperation network and ambidextrous innovation. The related variety of technological knowledge base mediates the relationship between the inventor cooperation network and exploitative innovation. However, the related variety of technological knowledge base cannot play a mediating role between inventor cooperation network and exploratory innovation.
Improvement of Integrated Watershed Management in Indonesia for Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change: A Review
Authors: Basuki Tyas Mutiara , Nugroho Hunggul Yudono Setio Hadi , Indrajaya Yonky , Pramono Irfan Budi , Nugroho Nunung Puji , Supangat Agung Budi , Indrawati Dewi Retna , Savitri Endang , Wahyuningrum Nining , Purwanto  , Cahyono Sigit Andy , Putra Pamungkas Buana , Adi Rahardyan Nugroho , Nugroho Agung Wahyu , Auliyani Diah , Wuryanta Agus , Riyanto Heru Dwi , Harjadi Beny , Yudilastyantoro Casimerus , Hanindityasari Luthfi , Nada Firda Maftukhakh Hilmya , Simarmata Daniel Pandapotan
Published: August 2022

Climate change is a major challenge for Indonesia due to its impact on food, water, energy sustainability, and environmental health. Almost all Indonesian regions are exposed to floods, landslides, soil erosion, drought, and heavy rains. In response to these challenges, the Government of Indonesia has determined integrated watershed management (IWM) to be one of the key programs to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, as stated in the updated Indonesian nationally determined contribution (NDC). This paper intends to review Indonesia′s efforts in mitigating and adapting to climate change through an IWM approach, and its attempts to realize a decent life and environment for all communities. Improvement of the IWM can be conducted by strengthening the synergy between the responsible institutions for watershed management and the responsible institutions for handling mitigation and adaptation of climate change impacts. In addition, it is important to prioritize coordination, participation, and collaboration not only at the national government level but also at the international level, since numerous problems may exist in the transboundary between countries, and finding solutions should involve planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Implementing the micro watershed model (MWM), supported by culture, local wisdom, and traditional knowledge in communities, can be used to improve the current IWM.
The AWAKE Run 2 Programme and Beyond
Authors: Gschwendtner Edda , Lotov Konstantin , Muggli Patric , Wing Matthew , Agnello Riccardo , Ahdida Claudia Christina , Amoedo Goncalves Maria Carolina , Andrebe Yanis , Apsimon Oznur , Apsimon Robert , Arnesano Jordan Matias , Bachmann Anna-Maria , Barrientos Diego , Batsch Fabian , Bencini Vittorio , Bergamaschi Michele , Blanchard Patrick , Burrows Philip Nicholas , Buttenschön Birger , Caldwell Allen , Chappell James , Chevallay Eric , Chung Moses , Cooke David Andrew , Damerau Heiko , Davut Can , Demeter Gabor , Dexter Amos Christopher , Doebert Steffen , Elverson Francesa Ann , Farmer John , Fasoli Ambrogio , Fedosseev Valentin , Fonseca Ricardo , Furno Ivo , Gessner Spencer , Gorn Aleksandr , Granados Eduardo , Granetzny Marcel , Graubner Tim , Grulke Olaf , Guran Eloise Daria , Hafych Vasyl , Hartin Anthony , Henderson James , Hüther Mathias , Kedves Miklos , Keeble Fearghus , Khudiakov Vadim , Kim Seong-Yeol , Kraus Florian , Krupa Michel , Lefevre Thibaut , Liang Linbo , Liu Shengli , Lopes Nelson , Martinez Calderon Miguel , Mazzoni Stefano , Medina Godoy David , Moody Joshua , Moon Kookjin , Morales Guzmán Pablo Israel , Moreira Mariana , Nechaeva Tatiana , Nowak Elzbieta , Pakuza Collette , Panuganti Harsha , Pardons Ans , Pepitone Kevin , Perera Aravinda , Pucek Jan , Pukhov Alexander , Ramjiawan Rebecca Louise , Rey Stephane , Scaachi Adam , Schmitz Oliver , Senes Eugenio , Silva Fernando , Silva Luis , Stollberg Christine , Sublet Alban , Swain Catherine , Topaloudis Athanasios , Torrado Nuno , Tuev Petr , Turner Marlene , Velotti Francesco , Verra Livio , Verzilov Victor , Vieira Jorge , Vincke Helmut , Weidl Martin , Welsch Carsten , Wendt Manfred , Wiwattananon Peerawan , Wolfenden Joseph , Woolley Benjamin , Wyler Samuel , Xia Guoxing , Yarygova Vlada , Zepp Michael , Zevi Della Porta Giovanni
Published: August 2022

Plasma wakefield acceleration is a promising technology to reduce the size of particle accelerators. The use of high energy protons to drive wakefields in plasma has been demonstrated during Run 1 of the AWAKE programme at CERN. Protons of energy 400 GeV drove wakefields that accelerated electrons to 2 GeV in under 10 m of plasma. The AWAKE collaboration is now embarking on Run 2 with the main aims to demonstrate stable accelerating gradients of 0.5–1 GV/m, preserve emittance of the electron bunches during acceleration and develop plasma sources scalable to 100s of metres and beyond. By the end of Run 2, the AWAKE scheme should be able to provide electron beams for particle physics experiments and several possible experiments have already been evaluated. This article summarises the programme of AWAKE Run 2 and how it will be achieved as well as the possible application of the AWAKE scheme to novel particle physics experiments.
Some New Fractional Integral Inequalities Pertaining to Generalized Fractional Integral Operator
Authors: Alsalami Omar Mutab , Sahoo Soubhagya Kumar , Tariq Muhammad , Shaikh Asif Ali , Cesarano Clemente , Nonlaopon Kamsing
Published: August 2022

Integral inequalities make up a comprehensive and prolific field of research within the field of mathematical interpretations. Integral inequalities in association with convexity have a strong relationship with symmetry. Different disciplines of mathematics and applied sciences have taken a new path as a result of the development of new fractional operators. Different new fractional operators have been used to improve some mathematical inequalities and to bring new ideas in recent years. To take steps forward, we prove various Grüss-type and Chebyshev-type inequalities for integrable functions in the frame of non-conformable fractional integral operators. The key results are proven using definitions of the fractional integrals, well-known classical inequalities, and classical relations.
China’s Road Traffic Mortality Rate and Its Empirical Research from Socio-Economic Factors Based on the Tobit Model
Authors: Zeng Liangen , Li Haitao , Lao Xin , Hu Haoyu , Wei Yonggui , Li Chengming , Yuan Xinyue , Guo Dongxu , Liu Kexin
Published: August 2022

Road transport safety is an important part of transport construction in China. China is now the world’s second-largest country for road traffic deaths. Research on the road traffic mortality rate (RTMR) in China is of great significance in promoting sustainable development in global traffic. This study analyzes the RTMR in 31 provinces in China between 2003 and 2018. Research shows that the RTMR of China demonstrated a downward trend after 2004, but it increased slightly after reaching the lowest points in 2015. The RTMR in coastal and western areas was quite high, requiring targeted management and prevention. During the study period, the RTMR in Guangdong and Tibet improved greatly, whereas the RTMR in Hubei and Guangxi deteriorated. Tobit model results show that economic development level, medical assistance level and government expenditure on health are significantly negatively correlated with RTMR, while urbanization level and motorization level significantly promote RTMR. This study provides macro policy support for improving traffic safety in China.
Mycotoxins in Cattle Feed and Feed Ingredients in Brazil: A Five-Year Survey
Authors: Biscoto Gabriela L. , Salvato Lauranne A. , Alvarenga Érika R. , Dias Raul R. S. , Pinheiro Guilherme R. G. , Rodrigues Mariana P. , Pinto Priscila N. , Freitas Rossimiriam P. , Keller Kelly M.
Published: August 2022

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by a variety of fungi, which when ingested can cause several deleterious effects to the health of humans and animals. In this work, the detection and quantification of six major mycotoxins (aflatoxins—AFLA, deoxynivalenol—DON, fumonisins—FUMO, ochratoxin A—OTA, T-2 toxin—T-2 and zearalenone—ZON) in 1749 samples of feed and feed ingredients for cattle, collected in Brazil between 2017 and 2021, was carried out using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In total, 97% of samples were contaminated with at least one mycotoxin, yet, very few samples exceeded the lowest European Union guidance values for cattle, and the estimated daily intake also showed a low risk for the animals. However, co-occurrences were widely observed, as 87% of samples contained two or more mycotoxins at the same time, and the presence of more than one mycotoxin at the same time in feed can lead to interactions. In conclusion, the contamination of feed and feed ingredients for cattle with mycotoxins in Brazil is very common. Hence, the monitoring of these mycotoxins is of significant importance for food safety.
Genotypes of Staphylococcus aureus Clinical Isolates Are Associated with Phenol-Soluble Modulin (PSM) Production
Authors: Lade Harshad , Chung Sung Hee , Lee Yeonhee , Joo Hwang-Soo , Kim Jae-Seok
Published: August 2022

Phenol-soluble modulins (PSMs) are important S. aureus virulence factors that cause cytolysis, mast cell degranulation, and stimulate inflammatory responses. In this study, PSM production by S. aureus clinical isolates was measured by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and correlated with staphylococcal protein A (spa) type and staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) type. Of 106 S. aureus clinical isolates, 50 (47.2%) corresponded to methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) and 56 (52.8%) to methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). LC-MS analysis revealed no significant difference in average PSMα3, PSMα4, PSMβ2, and δ-toxin production between MSSA and MRSA isolates, but PSMα1, PSMα2, and PSMβ1 production were higher in MSSA than MRSA. This study demonstrated that average PSMα1–α4, PSMβ1–β2, and δ-toxin production by SCCmec type II strains was significantly lower than the IV, IVA, and V strains. Most of the SCCmec type II strains (n = 17/25; 68.0%) did not produce δ-toxin, suggesting a dysfunctional Agr system. The spa type t111 (except one strain) and t2460 (except one strain producing PSM α1–α4) did not produce PSMα1–α4 and δ-toxin, while average PSM production was higher among the t126 and t1784 strains. This study showed that the genotype of S. aureus, specifically the spa and SCCmec types, is important in characterizing the production of PSMs.
Dengue Incidence Trends and Its Burden in Major Endemic Regions from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Tian Na , Zheng Jin-Xin , Guo Zhao-Yu , Li Lan-Hua , Xia Shang , Lv Shan , Zhou Xiao-Nong
Published: August 2022

Background: Dengue has become one of the major vector-borne diseases, which has been an important public health concern. We aimed to estimate the disease burden of dengue in major endemic regions from 1990 to 2019, and explore the impact pattern of the socioeconomic factors on the burden of dengue based on the global burden of diseases, injuries, and risk factors study 2019 (GBD 2019). Methods: Using the analytical strategies and data from the GBD 2019, we described the incidence and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of dengue in major endemic regions from 1990 to 2019. Furthermore, we estimated the correlation between dengue burden and socioeconomic factors, and then established an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model to predict the epidemic trends of dengue in endemic regions. All estimates were proposed as numbers and age-standardized rates (ASR) per 100,000 population, with uncertainty intervals (UIs). The ASRs of dengue incidence were compared geographically and five regions were stratified by a sociodemographic index (SDI). Results: A significant rise was observed on a global scale between 1990 and 2019, with the overall age-standardized rate (ASR) increasing from 557.15 (95% UI 243.32–1212.53) per 100,000 in 1990 to 740.4 (95% UI 478.2–1323.1) per 100,000 in 2019. In 2019, the Oceania region had the highest age-standardized incidence rates per 100,000 population (3173.48 (95% UI 762.33–6161.18)), followed by the South Asia region (1740.79 (95% UI 660.93–4287.12)), and then the Southeast Asia region (1153.57 (95% UI 1049.49–1281.59)). In Oceania, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, increase trends were found in the burden of dengue fever measured by ASRs of DALY which were consistent with ASRs of dengue incidence at the national level. Most of the countries with the heaviest burden of dengue fever occurred in areas with low and medium SDI regions. However, the burden in high-middle and high-SDI countries is relatively low, especially the Solomon Islands and Tonga in Oceania, the Maldives in South Asia and Indonesia in Southeast Asia. The age distribution results of the incidence rate and disease burden of dengue fever of major endemic regions showed that the higher risk and disease burden are mainly concentrated in people under 14 or over 70 years old. The prediction by ARIMA showed that the risk of dengue fever in South and Southeast Asia is on the rise, and further prevention and control is warranted. Conclusions: In view of the rapid population growth and urbanization in many dengue-endemic countries, our research results are of great significance for presenting the future trend in dengue fever. It is recommended to policy makers that specific attention needs to be paid to the negative impact of urbanization on dengue incidence and allocate more resources to the low-SDI areas and people under 14 or over 70 years old to reduce the burden of dengue fever.
Using Genomics to Understand the Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases in the Northern Territory of Australia
Authors: Meumann Ella M. , Krause Vicki L. , Baird Robert , Currie Bart J.
Published: August 2022

The Northern Territory (NT) is a geographically remote region of northern and central Australia. Approximately a third of the population are First Nations Australians, many of whom live in remote regions. Due to the physical environment and climate, and scale of social inequity, the rates of many infectious diseases are the highest nationally. Molecular typing and genomic sequencing in research and public health have provided considerable new knowledge on the epidemiology of infectious diseases in the NT. We review the applications of genomic sequencing technology for molecular typing, identification of transmission clusters, phylogenomics, antimicrobial resistance prediction, and pathogen detection. We provide examples where these methodologies have been applied to infectious diseases in the NT and discuss the next steps in public health implementation of this technology.
Interstellar Propulsion Using Laser-Driven Inertial Confinement Fusion Physics
Authors: Long Kelvin F.
Published: August 2022

To transport a spacecraft to distances far beyond the solar heliosphere and around the planets of other stars will require advanced space propulsion systems that go beyond the existing technological state of the art. The release of fusion energy from the interaction of two low mass atomic nuclei that are able to overcome the Coulomb barrier offers the potential for ∼1011J/g specific energy release and implies that robotic missions to the nearby stars to distances of ∼5–10 ly may be possible in trip durations of the order of ∼50–100 years, travelling at cruise speeds of the order of ∼0.05–0.15 c. Such missions would be characterised with ∼kN-MN thrust levels, ∼GW-TW jet powers, ∼kW/kg-MW/kg specific powers. One of the innovative methods by which fusion reactions can be ignited is via the impingement of laser beams onto an inertial confinement fusion capsule, imploding it to a thermonuclear state. This paper gives an overview of the physics of inertial confinement fusion and the interaction of a laser beam with a capsule to include the simulation of a 1D particle-in-cell code calculation to illustrate the effects. In the application to deep space missions, various spacecraft concepts from the literature are discussed, and the range of values assumed for the pulse frequency, burn fraction and areal density appropriate for the mission are presented. It is concluded that advanced space propulsion via inertial confinement fusion is a plausible part of our future, provided that experimental validation of ignition is on the horizon and numerical models for feasibility concepts are developed to high fidelity and on a consistent basis.
Persisting Smell and Taste Disorders in Patients Who Recovered from SARS-CoV-2 Virus Infection—Data from the Polish PoLoCOV-CVD Study
Authors: Chudzik Michał , Babicki Mateusz , Mastalerz-Migas Agnieszka , Kapusta Joanna
Published: August 2022

In the majority of cases, patients infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus experience a complete resolution of symptoms within six weeks of acquiring the infection, but an increasing number of patients report persistent symptoms. This study aimed to analyse the prevalence of self-reported smell and/or taste disorders (STDs) in a group of convalescent patients after infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and to identify risk factors for the disease. The study included 2218 COVID-19 convalescents after both inpatient and outpatient treatment. The sample group was analysed with regard to chronic diseases, place of isolation and clinical symptoms occurring during COVID-19 along with their duration. The assessment also included the most common symptoms of COVID-19 and the severity of the disease course. A total of 98 patients reported persistent smell and taste disorders up to three months after the end of isolation (67.4% of men and 32.6% of women). The mean age of the participants was 53.8 ± 13.5 years (49.19 ± 14.68 in patients with an STD vs. 54.01 ± 13.44 in patients without an STD). The patients treated for COVID-19 at home (p < 0.001) constituted almost the entire group of patients with persistent smell and taste disorders (97%). Among the patients with persistent smell and taste disorders, 57.1% suffered from at least one chronic condition (vs. 71.4% of patients without an STD). In patients with an STD, the number of symptoms per patient was higher than in the other group at 8.87 ± 3.65 (p = 0.018), while the most common clinical symptoms during the acute phase of COVID-19 were smell and taste disorders (84%) (p < 0.001), significant weakness (70%), headache (60%), cough (55%), arthralgia (51%) (p = 0.034) and back muscle pain (51%). Based on the results obtained, the following conclusions were drawn: the risk of developing persistent smell and taste disorders after COVID-19 is greater in younger people with less comorbidities and a higher number of symptoms during the acute phase of COVID-19. The risk is associated with clinical symptoms occurring during the acute phase of COVID-19, i.e., smell and taste disorders and arthralgia. In addition, this risk is higher in patients receiving outpatient treatment for COVID-19.
Human Papillomavirus 16 E6 and E7 Oncoproteins Alter the Abundance of Proteins Associated with DNA Damage Response, Immune Signaling and Epidermal Differentiation
Authors: Dust Kerry , Carpenter Michael , Chen Julie Chih-yu , Grant Chris , McCorrister Stuart , Westmacott Garret R. , Severini Alberto
Published: August 2022

The high-risk human papillomaviruses are oncogenic viruses associated with almost all cases of cervical carcinomas, and increasing numbers of anal, and oral cancers. Two oncogenic HPV proteins, E6 and E7, are capable of immortalizing keratinocytes and are required for HPV associated cell transformation. Currently, the influence of these oncoproteins on the global regulation of the host proteome is not well defined. Liquid chromatography coupled with quantitative tandem mass spectrometry using isobaric-tagged peptides was used to investigate the effects of the HPV16 oncoproteins E6 and E7 on protein levels in human neonatal keratinocytes (HEKn). Pathway and gene ontology enrichment analyses revealed that the cells expressing the HPV oncoproteins have elevated levels of proteins related to interferon response, inflammation and DNA damage response, while the proteins related to cell organization and epithelial development are downregulated. This study identifies dysregulated pathways and potential biomarkers associated with HPV oncoproteins in primary keratinocytes which may have therapeutic implications. Most notably, DNA damage response pathways, DNA replication, and interferon signaling pathways were affected in cells transduced with HPV16 E6 and E7 lentiviruses. Moreover, proteins associated with cell organization and differentiation were significantly downregulated in keratinocytes expressing HPV16 E6 + E7. High-risk HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins are necessary for the HPV-associated transformation of keratinocytes. However their influence on the global dysregulation of keratinocyte proteome is not well documented. Here shotgun proteomics using TMT-labeling detected over 2500 significantly dysregulated proteins associated with E6 and E7 expression. Networks of proteins related to interferon response, inflammation and DNA damage repair pathways were altered.
Adenoviruses in Avian Hosts: Recent Discoveries Shed New Light on Adenovirus Diversity and Evolution
Authors: Athukorala Ajani , Helbig Karla J. , Mcsharry Brian P. , Forwood Jade K. , Sarker Subir
Published: August 2022

While adenoviruses cause infections in a wide range of vertebrates, members of the genus Atadenovirus, Siadenovirus, and Aviadenovirus predominantly infect avian hosts. Several recent studies on avian adenoviruses have encouraged us to re-visit previously proposed adenovirus evolutionary concepts. Complete genomes and partial DNA polymerase sequences of avian adenoviruses were extracted from NCBI and analysed using various software. Genomic analyses and constructed phylogenetic trees identified the atadenovirus origin from an Australian native passerine bird in contrast to the previously established reptilian origin. In addition, we demonstrated that the theories on higher AT content in atadenoviruses are no longer accurate and cannot be considered as a species demarcation criterion for the genus Atadenovirus. Phylogenetic reconstruction further emphasised the need to reconsider siadenovirus origin, and we recommend extended studies on avian adenoviruses in wild birds to provide finer evolutionary resolution.
Assessment on Different Vaccine Formulation Parameters in the Protection against Heterologous Challenge with FMDV in Cattle
Authors: Di Giacomo Sebastián , Bucafusco Danilo , Schammas Juan Manuel , Pega Juan , Miraglia María Cruz , Barrionuevo Florencia , Capozzo Alejandra Victoria , Perez-Filgueira Daniel Mariano
Published: August 2022

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) remains one of the major threats to animal health worldwide. Its causative agent, the FMD virus (FMDV), affects cloven-hoofed animals, including farm animals and wildlife species, inflicting severe damage to the international trade and livestock industry. FMDV antigenic variability remains one of the biggest challenges for vaccine-based control strategies. The current study analyzed the host’s adaptive immune responses in cattle immunized with different vaccine protocols and investigated its associations with the clinical outcome after infection with a heterologous strain of FMDV. The results showed that antigenic payload, multivalency, and revaccination may impact on the clinical outcome after heterologous challenge with FMDV. Protection from the experimental infection was related to qualitative traits of the elicited antibodies, such as avidity, IgG isotype composition, and specificity diversity, modulating and reflecting the vaccine-induced maturation of the humoral response. The correlation analyses of the serum avidity obtained per vaccinated individual might suggest that conventional vaccination can induce high-affinity immunoglobulins against conserved epitopes even within different FMDV serotypes. Cross-reaction among strains by these high-affinity antibodies may support further protection against a heterologous infection with FMDV.
Membrane Chromatography-Based Downstream Processing for Cell-Culture Produced Influenza Vaccines
Authors: Yang Zeyu , Xu Xingge , Silva Cristina A. T. , Farnos Omar , Venereo-Sanchez Alina , Toussaint Cécile , Dash Shantoshini , González-Domínguez Irene , Bernier Alice , Henry Olivier , Kamen Amine
Published: August 2022

New influenza strains are constantly emerging, causing seasonal epidemics and raising concerns to the risk of a new global pandemic. Since vaccination is an effective method to prevent the spread of the disease and reduce its severity, the development of robust bioprocesses for producing pandemic influenza vaccines is exceptionally important. Herein, a membrane chromatography-based downstream processing platform with a demonstrated industrial application potential was established. Cell culture-derived influenza virus H1N1/A/PR/8/34 was harvested from benchtop bioreactor cultures. For the clarification of the cell culture broth, a depth filtration was selected as an alternative to centrifugation. After inactivation, an anion exchange chromatography membrane was used for viral capture and further processing. Additionally, two pandemic influenza virus strains, the H7N9 subtype of the A/Anhui/1/2013 and H3N2/A/Hong Kong/8/64, were successfully processed through similar downstream process steps establishing optimized process parameters. Overall, 41.3–62.5% viral recovery was achieved, with the removal of 86.3–96.5% host cell DNA and 95.5–99.7% of proteins. The proposed membrane chromatography purification is a scalable and generic method for the processing of different influenza strains and is a promising alternative to the current industrial purification of influenza vaccines based on ultracentrifugation methodologies.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among Parents of Children under Five Years in the United States
Authors: Fisher Celia B. , Bragard Elise , Jaber Rimah , Gray Aaliyah
Published: August 2022

On 17 June 2022, the U.S. FDA authorized the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines for emergency use (EUA) in children ages 6 months–4 years. Seroprevalence has increased during the current Omicron variant wave for children under 5 years, and the burden of hospitalization for this age group is similar or exceeds other pediatric vaccine-preventable diseases. Research following the October 2021 EUA for vaccines for children 5–11 indicates a high prevalence of parental vaccine hesitancy and low uptake, underscoring the urgency of understanding attitudes and beliefs driving parental COVID-19 vaccine rejection and acceptance for younger children. One month prior to FDA approval, in the present study 411 U.S. female guardians of children 1–4 years from diverse racial/ethnic, economic, and geographic backgrounds participated in a mixed method online survey assessing determinants of COVID-19 pediatric vaccine hesitancy. Only 31.3% of parents intended to vaccinate their child, 22.6% were unsure, and 46.2% intended not to vaccinate. Logistic regression indicated significant barriers to vaccination uptake including concerns about immediate and long-term vaccination side effects for young children, the rushed nature of FDA approval and distrust in government and pharmaceutical companies, lack of community and family support for pediatric vaccination, conflicting media messaging, and lower socioeconomic status. Vaccine-resistant and unsure parents were also more likely to believe that children were not susceptible to infection and that the vaccine no longer worked against new variants. Findings underscore the need for improved public health messaging and transparency regarding vaccine development and approval, the importance of community outreach, and increased pediatrician attention to parental concerns to better improve COVID-19 vaccine uptake for young children.
Kinetic of the Antibody Response Following AddaVax-Adjuvanted Immunization with Recombinant Influenza Antigens
Authors: Ross Ted. M. , Gokanapudi Naveen , Ge Pan , Shi Hua , Richardson Robert A. , Pierce Spencer R. , Sanchez Pedro , Ullah Subhan , De Luca Eliana , Sautto Giuseppe A.
Published: August 2022

Notwithstanding the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, influenza virus infection still represents a global health concern in terms of hospitalizations and possible pandemic threats. The objective of next-generation influenza vaccines is not only to increase the breadth of response but also to improve the elicitation of an effective and robust immune response, especially in high-risk populations. To achieve this second objective, the administration of adjuvanted influenza vaccines has been considered. In this regard, the monitoring and characterization of the antibody response associated with the administration of adjuvanted vaccines has been evaluated in this study in order to shed light on the kinetic, magnitude and subclass usage of antibody secreting cells (ASCs) as well as of circulating antigen-specific serum antibodies. Specifically, we utilized the DBA/2J mouse model to assess the kinetic, magnitude and IgG subclass usage of the antibody response following an intramuscular (IM) or intraperitoneal (IP) immunization regimen with AddaVax-adjuvanted bivalent H1N1 and H3N2 computationally optimized broadly reactive antigen (COBRA) influenza recombinant hemagglutinins (rHAs). While the serological evaluation revealed a homogeneous kinetic of the antibody response, the detection of the ASCs through a FluoroSpot platform revealed a different magnitude, subclass usage and kinetic of the antigen-specific IgG secreting cells peaking at day 5 and day 9 following the IP and IM immunization, respectively.
A Framework for Inspiring COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence in African American and Latino Communities
Authors: Wiley Zanthia , Khalil Lana , Lewis Kennedy , Lee Matthew , Leary Maranda , Cantos Valeria D. , Ofotokun Ighovwerha , Rouphael Nadine , Rebolledo Paulina A.
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted racial and ethnic minority communities, particularly African American and Latino communities. The impacts of social determinants of health, structural racism, misinformation, and mistrust have contributed to a decreased COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Effective methods of addressing and combatting these barriers are essential. Accurate and targeted messaging delivered by trusted voices from community-based organizations, government health systems and organizations, and healthcare and academic systems is imperative. Outreach and communication should be culturally sensitive, provided in the preferred language of the community, flexible, and tailored for in-person and virtual outlets. This communication must also increase trust, combat misinformation, and inspire COVID-19 vaccine confidence. In this manuscript, we outline a framework for inspiring COVID-19 vaccine confidence in African American and Latino communities. These methods of targeted outreach should be considered and implemented for urgent and nonurgent community public health efforts beyond the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., monkeypox) and as a framework to inspire vaccine confidence in those living in racial and ethnic minority communities globally.
Estimates of the Global Burden of COVID-19 and the Value of Broad and Equitable Access to COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Bell Eleanor , Brassel Simon , Oliver Edward , Schirrmacher Hannah , Arnetorp Sofie , Berg Katja , Darroch-Thompson Duncan , Pohja-Hutchison Paula , Mungall Bruce , Carroll Stuart , Postma Maarten , Steuten Lotte
Published: August 2022

The objectives of this research were to produce a macro-level overview of the global COVID-19 burden and estimate the value of access to COVID-19 vaccines. A targeted literature review collated evidence of the burden. Linear modelling and data analysis estimated the health and economic effects of COVID-19 vaccines delivered in 2021, and whether additional value could have been achieved with broader and more equitable access. By 1 December 2020, there had been an estimated 17 million excess deaths due to COVID-19. Low-income countries allocated more than 30% of their healthcare budgets to COVID-19, compared to 8% in high-income countries. All country income groups experienced gross domestic product (GDP) growth lower than predicted in 2020. If all 92 countries eligible for COVAX Advance Market Committee (AMC), access had reached 40% vaccination coverage in 2021, 120% more excess deaths would have been averted, equivalent to USD 5 billion (109) in savings to healthcare systems. Every USD spent by advanced economies on vaccinations for less advanced economies averted USD 28 of economic losses in advanced economies and USD 29 in less advanced economies. The cost to high-income countries when not all countries are vaccinated far outweighs the cost of manufacturing and distributing vaccines globally.
Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Healthcare Worker Infection Rate and Outcome during SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant Outbreak in Hong Kong
Authors: Zee Sze-Tsing , Kwok Lam-Fung , Kee Ka-Man , Fung Ling-Hiu , Luk Wing-Pan , Chan Tsun-Leung , Leung Chin-Pang , Yu Pik-Wa , Hung Jhan , SzeTo Kit-Ying , Chan Wai-Leng , Tang Siu-Fai , Lin Wai-Chi , Ma Shiu-Kwan , Lee Koon-Hung , Lau Chor-Chiu , Yung Wai-Hung
Published: August 2022

Immune escape is observed with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (Pango lineage B.1.1.529), the predominant circulating strain worldwide. A booster dose was shown to restore immunity against Omicron infection; however, real-world data comparing mRNA (BNT162b2; Comirnaty) and inactivated vaccines’ (CoronaVac; Sinovac) homologous and heterologous boosting are lacking. A retrospective study was performed to compare the rate and outcome of COVID-19 in healthcare workers (HCWs) with various vaccination regimes during a territory-wide Omicron BA.2.2 outbreak in Hong Kong. During the study period from 1 February to 31 March 2022, 3167 HCWs were recruited, and 871 HCWs reported 746 and 183 episodes of significant household and non-household close contact. A total of 737 HCWs acquired COVID-19, all cases of which were all clinically mild. Time-dependent Cox regression showed that, compared with two-dose vaccination, three-dose vaccination reduced infection risk by 31.7% and 89.3% in household contact and non-household close contact, respectively. Using two-dose BNT162b2 as reference, two-dose CoronaVac recipient had significantly higher risk of being infected (HR 1.69 p < 0.0001). Three-dose BNT162b2 (HR 0.4778 p< 0.0001) and two-dose CoronaVac + BNT162b2 booster (HR 0.4862 p = 0.0157) were associated with a lower risk of infection. Three-dose CoronaVac and two-dose BNT162b2 + CoronaVac booster were not significantly different from two-dose BNT162b2. The mean time to achieve negative RT-PCR or E gene cycle threshold 31 or above was not affected by age, number of vaccine doses taken, vaccine type, and timing of the last dose. In summary, we have demonstrated a lower risk of breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infection in HCWs given BNT162b2 as a booster after two doses of BNT162b2 or CoronaVac.
Nutraceuticals to Mitigate the Secret Killers in Animals
Authors: Tellez-Isaias Guillermo , Eisenreich Wolfgang , Shehata Awad A.
Published: August 2022

In the past few years, the concept of “gut health” has established itself as a norm in the scientific literature and animal production [...]
Numerical Modeling of Flash Flood Risk Mitigation and Operational Warning in Urban Areas
Authors: Cheng Zhengyang , Georgakakos Konstantine P. , Spencer Cristopher R. , Banks Randall
Published: August 2022

This paper aims to demonstrate the research-to-application and operational use of numerical hydrologic and hydraulic modeling to (a) quantify potential flash flood risks in small urban communities with high spatial resolution; (b) assess the effectiveness of possible flood mitigation measures appropriate for such communities; and (c) construct an effective operational urban flash flood warning system. The analysis is exemplified through case studies pertaining to a small community with dense housing and steep terrain in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, through numerical simulations with a customized self-contained hydrologic and hydraulic modeling software. Issues associated with limited data and the corresponding modeling are discussed. In order to simulate the extreme scenarios, 24-h design storms with return periods from 1 to 100 years with distinctive temporal and spatial distributions were constructed using both daily and hourly precipitation for each month of the rainy season (May–October). Four flood mitigation plans were examined based on natural channel revegetation and the installation of gabion dams with detention basins. Due to limitations arising from the housing layout and budgets, a feasible plan to implement both measures in selected regions, instead of all regions, is recommended as one of the top candidates from a cost-to-performance ratio perspective. Numerical modeling, customized for the conditions of the case study, is proven to be an effective and robust tool to evaluate urban flood risks and to assess the performance of mitigation measures. The transition from hydrologic and hydraulic modeling to an effective urban flash warning operational system is demonstrated by the regional Urban Flash Flood Warning System (UFFWS) implemented in Istanbul, Turkey. With quality-controlled remotely sensed precipitation observations and forecast data, the system generates forcing in the hydrologic and hydraulic modeling network to generate both historical and forecast flow to assist forecasters in evaluating urban flash flood risks.
Tolerance and Growth of Adult Schizothorax prenanti Exposed and Re-Exposed to Supersaturated Gas Downstream of a Dam
Authors: Yuan Quan , Li Kefeng , Wang Yuanming , Ji Qianfeng , Liang Ruifeng
Published: August 2022

Total dissolved gas (TDG) is suggested to be one possible explanation for the extensive mortality of endemic fish suffered from gas bubble disease (GBD). We investigated the effects of water depth on adult Schitzothorax prenanti susceptibility to GBD in TDG supersaturated water 11.5 km downstream of Dagangshan dam in a two-year (2016–2017) live cage study. The probability of survival significantly increased at greater depth. The mortality of fish at 1–2 m was reduced to 50% of that at 0–1 m and the mortality rate for fish at 2–3 m was reduced to 25% of that at 0–1 m. Fish that survived in-situ TDG exposure in 2016 were relocated to equilibrated water and observed for 274 d to investigate sublethal effects of GBD. The surviving fish showed a substantial reduction in growth compared to the control group. During the flood discharge period in 2017, fish were re-exposed to TDG supersaturated water after a period of recovery (274 d) in equilibrated water. The mortality rate of re-exposed fish decreased to 35% compared to newly introduced fish. Our results contribute to the protection of aquatic organisms and the improvement of eco-friendly hydroelectric dam operations in the Yangtze River.
Flood Risk Assessment Using TELEMAC-2D Models Integrated with Multi-Index Analysis in Shenzhen River Basin, China
Authors: Li Guoyi , Liu Jiahong , Shao Weiwei
Published: August 2022

An urban flood simulation model based on TELEMAC-2D was constructed, and the inundation data of two measured rainstorms (7 June 2018 and 16 September 2018) were selected to validate the model. Flooding processes were simulated under 12 designed rainfall scenarios with rainfall return periods of 20, 50 and 100 years and rainfall peak coefficients of 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8, respectively. The hazard-vulnerability (H-V) method was used for urban flood risk assessment. The selected hazard factors included inundation depth, flood velocity, elevation and slope. The vulnerability factors included land use type, population density and property distribution. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method was used to calculate the weight values of each indicator factor, and ArcGIS software was used for overlay calculation. The results of the analysis show that as the rainfall peak coefficient factor increases, the area of each risk zone increases to varying degrees. The larger the rainfall peak coefficient factor, the more serious the flooding. As the rainfall return period increases, the effect of the rainfall peak coefficient factor of the change in the area of the highest risk zone diminishes. The highest risk zone is the largest within Luohu District (LHD), accounting for 46.38%, 60.92% and 45.54% of the total highest risk area, respectively. As the return period increases, the area of the highest risk zone within Futian District (FTD) increases, but its proportion has a decreasing trend, and the proportion of the highest risk area within Longgang District (LGD) has an increasing trend. The risk zoning map can better reflect the risk distribution of the basin and provide a scientific basis for early warning of flood prevention and drainage in the Shenzhen River basin.