bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distributed Fiber Optic Strain Sensing Technology for Monitoring Soil Deformation Induced by Leakage in Buried Water Pipelines: A Model Test Study
Authors: Cheng Lin , Sun Yongkang , Wang Zhaohan , Gao Wenqi , Li Zhuolin , Xu Zengguang , Hu Jiang
Published: January 2025

Water pipelines in water diversion projects can leak, leading to soil deformation and ground subsidence, necessitating research into soil deformation monitoring technology. This study conducted model tests to monitor soil deformation around leaking buried water pipelines using distributed fiber optic strain sensing (DFOSS) technology based on optical frequency domain reflectometry (OFDR). By arranging strain measurement fibers in a pipe–soil model, we investigated how leak location, leak size, pipe burial depth, and water flow velocity affect soil strain field monitoring results. The results showed that pipeline leakage creates a “saddle-shaped” spatial distribution of soil strain above the pipeline, effectively indicating ground subsidence locations. When only one survey line is arranged, it is preferable to place the optical fiber directly above the pipeline. Surface monitoring fibers primarily detected tensile strain, with more pronounced peak values observed under conditions of larger leak size, higher flow velocity, shallow burial depth, and top-pipe leakage location. Monitoring fibers below the pipeline showed mainly unimodal distribution, with peak strain coinciding with the leak location. The sequential timing of strain changes at different fiber positions enabled the determination of soil seepage direction. This study demonstrates that DFOSS technology can provide important support for the early warning of such geological disasters.
Enhancing Low-Light Images with Kolmogorov–Arnold Networks in Transformer Attention
Authors: Brateanu Alexandru , Balmez Raul , Orhei Ciprian , Ancuti Cosmin , Ancuti Codruta
Published: January 2025

Low-light image enhancement (LLIE) techniques improve the performance of image sensors by enhancing visibility and details in poorly lit environments and have significantly benefited from recent research into Transformer models. This work presents a novel Transformer attention mechanism inspired by the Kolmogorov–Arnold representation theorem, incorporating learnable non-linearity and multivariate function decomposition. This innovative mechanism is the foundation of KAN-T, our proposed Transformer network. By enhancing feature flexibility and enabling the model to capture broader contextual information, KAN-T achieves superior performance. Our comprehensive experiments, both quantitative and qualitative, demonstrate that the proposed method achieves state-of-the-art performance in low-light image enhancement, highlighting its effectiveness and wide-ranging applicability. The code will be released upon publication.
Clinical Whole-Body Gait Characterization Using a Single RGB-D Sensor
Authors: Boborzi Lukas , Bertram Johannes , Schniepp Roman , Decker Julian , Wuehr Max
Published: January 2025

Instrumented gait analysis is widely used in clinical settings for the early detection of neurological disorders, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating fall risk. However, the gold-standard marker-based 3D motion analysis is limited by high time and personnel demands. Advances in computer vision now enable markerless whole-body tracking with high accuracy. Here, we present vGait, a comprehensive 3D gait assessment method using a single RGB-D sensor and state-of-the-art pose-tracking algorithms. vGait was validated in healthy participants during frontal- and sagittal-perspective walking. Performance was comparable across perspectives, with vGait achieving high accuracy in detecting initial and final foot contacts (F1 scores > 95%) and reliably quantifying spatiotemporal gait parameters (e.g., stride time, stride length) and whole-body coordination metrics (e.g., arm swing and knee angle ROM) at different levels of granularity (mean, step-to-step variability, side asymmetry). The flexibility, accuracy, and minimal resource requirements of vGait make it a valuable tool for clinical and non-clinical applications, including outpatient clinics, medical practices, nursing homes, and community settings. By enabling efficient and scalable gait assessment, vGait has the potential to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic workflows and improve access to clinical mobility monitoring.
The Use of Modern Robust Regression Analysis with Graphics: An Example from Marketing
Authors: Riani Marco , Atkinson Anthony C. , Morelli Gianluca , Corbellini Aldo
Published: January 2025

Routine least squares regression analyses may sometimes miss important aspects of data. To exemplify this point we analyse a set of 1171 observations from a questionnaire intended to illuminate the relationship between customer loyalty and perceptions of such factors as price and community outreach. Our analysis makes much use of graphics and data monitoring to provide a paradigmatic example of the use of modern robust statistical tools based on graphical interaction with data. We start with regression. We perform such an analysis and find significant regression on all factors. However, a variety of plots show that there are some unexplained features, which are not eliminated by response transformation. Accordingly, we turn to robust analyses, intended to give answers unaffected by the presence of data contamination. A robust analysis using a non-parametric model leads to the increased significance of transformations of the explanatory variables. These transformations provide improved insight into consumer behaviour. We provide suggestions for a structured approach to modern robust regression and give links to the software used for our data analyses.
Spatiotemporal Detection of Ecological Environment Quality Changes in the Lijiang River Basin Using a New Dual Model
Authors: Li Ning , Wang Haoyu , He Wen , Jia Bin , Fu Bolin , Chen Jianjun , Meng Xinyuan , Yu Ling , Wang Jinye
Published: January 2025

Detecting spatiotemporal changes in ecological environment quality (EEQ) is of great importance for maintaining regional ecological security and supporting sustainable economic and social development. However, research on EEQ detection from a remote sensing perspective is insufficient, especially at the basin scale. Based on two indices, namely, the Ecological Index (EI) and the Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI), we established a dual model, combining the remote sensing ecological comprehensive index (RSECI) and its differential change model, to study the spatiotemporal evolutionary characteristics of EEQ in the Lijiang River Basin (LRB) from 2000 to 2020. The RSECI combines the following five indicators: greenness, wetness, heat, dryness, and aerosol optical depth. The results of this study show that the area of good and excellent EEQ in the LRB decreased from 3676.22 km2 in 2000 to 2083.89 km2 in 2020, while the area of poor and fair EEQ increased from 80.81 km2 in 2000 to 1375.91 km2 in 2020. From 2000 to 2020, the change curve of the EEQ difference in the LRB first rose, fell, and then rose again. The wetness and greenness indicators had positive effects on promoting EEQ, while the heat, aerosol optical depth, and dryness indicators had restraining effects. The results of stepwise regression analysis showed that, among the selected indicators, wetness and greenness were the key factors for improving the EEQ in the LRB during the study period. The RSECI approach and the difference change model proposed in this study can be used to quantitatively evaluate the EEQ and facilitate the analysis of the spatial and temporal dynamic changes and difference changes in EEQ.
Artificial Intelligence Technology and Corporate ESG Performance: Empirical Evidence from Chinese-Listed Firms
Authors: Xie Hanjin , Wu Fengquan
Published: January 2025

In the era of artificial intelligence (AI), economic efficiency has an obvious role to play, but “non-economic benefits” have gradually become the focus of corporate attention; thus, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) has become a mainstream investment strategy. This paper empirically examines the impact of corporate application of AI technology on corporate ESG performance using a sample of 4858 listed companies in China from 2007 to 2022. The study finds that: (1) corporate application of AI technology can significantly enhance corporate ESG performance, and this conclusion still holds after a series of endogeneity treatments and robustness tests; (2) mechanism analysis shows that the degree of corporate digitalization has a positive moderating effect in the process of AI technology affecting corporate ESG performance. The channel analysis shows that the application of AI technology can enhance environmental (E) performance by strengthening corporate green technology innovation, social (S) performance by improving corporate philanthropic responsibility, and overall ESG performance with the above two sub-items as the main aspects. However, AI technology also weakens the effectiveness of corporate internal control, which leads to a decline in corporate governance (G) performance; (3) Heterogeneity analysis shows that AI technology promotes ESG more significantly in more competitive industries and tech-nology-intensive firms, and more significantly in the eastern and central regions than in the western and northeastern regions, and that large- and medium-sized firms are similarly superior to small-sized firms, while medium-sized firms have more room for upward mobility than large-sized firms, which embody a higher promotion effect than large enterprises. This paper provides theoretical evidence that enterprises apply AI technology to improve ESG performance and empirical support around investing in ESG practices and promoting ESG development.
Work Sustainability: Insights from Employees and Managers on Weekly Working Hours
Authors: Dias Susana , Silva Vítor Hugo , Loureiro Ana , Luís Sílvia
Published: January 2025

This study aims to review the theoretical and empirical effects of working time reduction (WTR) and compare them with workers’ expectations and experiences. A survey was conducted with 61 individuals working 40 h per week, 36 workers who had undergone WTR, and 47 managers. The results showed that all participants were in favor of WTR; managers preferred reducing to a 4-day workweek, while workers opted for a flexible schedule. The expectations and experiences of WTR impacts on the society, economy, and environment were very positive, particularly in stress reduction, household responsibilities, and work–family balance. Experienced workers and managers recognized the positive economic effects of WTR on productivity and competitiveness, but other workers did not expect them. Contrary to the expectations of the other samples, experienced participants reported an increase in their consumption patterns, which needs to be considered, as the impact of WTR on the environment is mainly dependent on the workers’ activities. Understanding the effects of WTR and the support of workers and managers is crucial in decision-making processes.
Life Cycle Assessment of Pig Production in Central Portugal: Environmental Impacts and Sustainability Challenges
Authors: Santos Lenise , Ferreira Miguel , Domingos Idalina , Oliveira Veronica , Rodrigues Carla , Ferreira António , Ferreira José
Published: January 2025

Pig farming plays a crucial socioeconomic role in the European Union, which is one of the largest pork exporters in the world. In Portugal, pig farming plays a key role in regional development and the national economy. To ensure future sustainability and minimize environmental impacts, it is essential to identify the most deleterious pig production activities. This study carried out a life cycle assessment (LCA) of pig production using a conventional system in central Portugal to identify the unitary processes with the greatest environmental impact problems. LCA followed the ISO 14040/14044 standards, covering the entire production cycle, from feed manufacturing to waste management, using 1 kg of live pig weight as the functional unit. The slurry produced is used as fertilizer in agriculture, replacing synthetic chemical fertilizers. Results show that feed production, raising piglets, and fattening pigs are the most impactful phases of the pig production cycle. Fodder production is the stage with the greatest impact, accounting for approximately 60% to 70% of the impact in the categories analyzed in most cases. The environmental categories with the highest impacts were freshwater ecotoxicity, human carcinogenic toxicity, and marine ecotoxicity; the most significant impacts were observed for human health, with an estimated effect of around 0.00045 habitants equivalent (Hab.eq) after normalization. The use of more sustainable ingredients and the optimization of feed efficiency are effective strategies for promoting sustainability in the pig farming sector.
Understanding the Causes of Social Acceptance and Rejection of a Uranium Mine Development Project in Northwestern Spain
Authors: Sánchez-Tabernero Gonzalo , Muñoz-Sosa Concepción , Hidalgo-Muñoz Antonio R. , Galán José I. , Tabernero Carmen
Published: January 2025

One of the main challenges facing modern societies is achieving environmental sustainability. In the face of the current energy crisis, some countries regard nuclear energy as a viable solution to meet their population’s energy demands. This article analyzes the local people’s responses to a project to develop and exploit a uranium mine in Retortillo-Santidad, a rural area in northwestern Spain on the border with Portugal. Content analysis, using Atlas.ti software (version 23.0), of the open-ended responses of 55 citizens affected by the uranium mine, revealed through network analysis that the responses can be grouped into interconnected blocks. Concerns about risks to health and the traditional economy of the area are associated with a rejection of both the uranium mine and the project itself. In addition, community attitudes towards environmental sustainability, mistrust, and social conflicts among the affected population explain the opposition to the construction of the mine. Assessments reveal different reasons for this: some individuals place more value on the project benefits and their distrust of the company, while others focus more on perceived risks, community conflicts, and environmental sustainability. These findings have practical implications for the development of future energy policies. They emphasize the importance of ensuring that affected citizens are informed about reciprocal benefits, actively heard to understand their diverse evaluations of the mining project, and meaningfully included in the implementation of energy initiatives. This underscores the necessity of adopting a more inclusive approach.
Fintech and Corporate ESG Performance: An Empirical Analysis Based on the NEV Industry
Authors: Huang Xinhao , Li Di , Sun Meng
Published: January 2025

With the strategic background of accelerating the transformation of the low-carbon economy in China, how to better help the new energy automobile industry realize green and high-quality development under the goal of “dual-carbon” with the strengthening of science and technology has become one of the most important issues nowadays, and it is of great significance to explore the relationship between financial technology (fintech) and the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance of the new energy automobile (NEV) industry. Using panel data from NEV companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share markets between 2011 and 2022, this study applies text mining techniques to construct a fintech index and analyze the transmission mechanisms through which fintech influences ESG performance. The findings show that fintech directly improves ESG outcomes for NEV companies, a result that remains robust across a series of validation tests. The analysis reveals that fintech reduces financing constraints and enhances corporate environmental information disclosure, which in turn drives better ESG performance. Furthermore, the impact of fintech is particularly pronounced in state-owned enterprises, large-scale firms, and technologically advanced NEV companies, as evidenced by heterogeneity analysis. This study provides empirical insights into fintech’s role in advancing sustainable development in the NEV sector, offering guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders aiming to align technological progress with environmental and social governance objectives.
Property Rights for Forest Carbon: A Conceptual Perspective
Authors: Birben Üstüner , Elvan Osman Devrim , Aydın Aynur , Perkumienė Dalia , Škėma Mindaugas , Aleinikovas Marius
Published: January 2025

This study delves into the intricate concept of “carbon rights” and their legal standing, particularly within publicly owned forests, utilizing the “bundle of rights theory” as a framework. The research analyzes Turkish Forest Law, employing the EFLD criterion to evaluate the security of access, extraction, management, exclusion, and alienation rights related to forest carbon. The findings reveal that while Turkish legislation provides robust provisions for access and extraction rights, aspects related to management, exclusion, and alienation exhibit certain limitations. Notably, this study highlights the constrained right of alienation in public forests, impacting the effective utilization of forest carbon rights. The study underscores the need for clear definitions and regulations regarding carbon rights, especially in countries with dominant public forest ownership, to foster sustainable carbon management and equitable participation in international carbon trading mechanisms.
Assessment of the Biodiversity Value of Benthic Macroinvertebrates in the Tuojiang River Basin, Chengdu
Authors: Yu Yanan , Fu Bin , Liu Jingjing
Published: January 2025

Benthic macroinvertebrates are crucial to the health of river ecosystems. However, their conservation status is often overlooked. Due to their limited mobility and sensitivity to habitat changes, their survival is threatened. Given the current lack of research on their value composition and evaluation, this study refers to the total economic value (TEV) framework to preliminarily construct a systematic evaluation framework for freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates. Through field surveys, questionnaires, and market survey data, the value composition of benthic macroinvertebrates in the Tuojiang River Basin of Chengdu was systematically clarified. The total value was monetized using methods such as the market price method, substitute market method, and simulated market method. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) The biodiversity value of benthic macroinvertebrates in the study area ranges from 6.36 × 108 to 12.76 × 108 CNY/a, accounting for 0.17–0.34% of the region’s 2019 GDP. The various values in order of proportion are as follows: non-use value > direct service value > Direct Material value > indirect use value. This indicates that this biological group has enormous potential value and significant conservation importance. (2) The proportions of the value amounts of various species in the total value differ. The proportions of Viviparidae, Odonata, Ephemeroptera, and Palaemonidae are relatively high, reaching 9.8–23.8%. The proportions of Atyidae, Semisulcospiridae, and Bithyniidae are about 5%. The proportions of Unionidae, Corbiculidae, and Aillpullaridae are less than 3%. These differences are mainly influenced by factors such as species population numbers in the region, public value perception, aesthetic preferences, and dietary habits. This evaluation framework scientifically and comprehensively assesses the biodiversity value of regional benthic macroinvertebrates, providing a reference for the value assessment of other biological groups within the region and offering a scientific basis for the conservation and sustainable utilization of the target biological groups.
Asymptotic and Oscillatory Properties for Even-Order Nonlinear Neutral Differential Equations with Damping Term
Authors: Batiha Belal , Alshammari Nawa , Aldosari Faten , Masood Fahd , Bazighifan Omar
Published: January 2025

This research focuses on studying the asymptotic and oscillatory behavior of a special class of even-order nonlinear neutral differential equations, including damping terms. The research aims to achieve qualitative progress in understanding the relationship between the solutions of these equations and their associated functions. Leveraging the symmetry between positive and negative solutions simplifies the derivation of criteria that ensure the oscillation of all solutions. Using precise techniques such as the Riccati method and comparison methods, innovative criteria are developed that guarantee the oscillation of all the solutions of the studied equations. The study provides new conditions and effective analytical tools that contribute to deepening the theoretical understanding and expanding the practical applications of these systems. Based on solid scientific foundations and previous studies, the research concludes with the presentation of examples that illustrate the practical impact of the results, highlighting the theoretical value of research in the field of neutral differential equations.
Biomonitoring PhIP, a Potential Prostatic Carcinogen, in the Hair of Healthy Men of African and European Ancestry
Authors: Turesky Robert J. , Jones Clarence , Guo Jingshu , Cammerrer Kari , Maertens Laura A. , Antonarakis Emmanuel S. , Lu Zhanni , Spector Logan G.
Published: January 2025

Heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs), formed during the cooking of meat, are potential human carcinogens, underscoring the need for long-lived biomarkers to assess exposure and cancer risk. Frequent consumption of well-done meats containing 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), a prevalent HAA that is a prostatic carcinogen in rodents and DNA-damaging agent in human prostate cells, has been linked to aggressive prostate cancer (PC) pathology. African American (AA) men face nearly twice the risk for developing and dying from PC compared to White men. We previously demonstrated that scalp hair is a reliable biospecimen for measuring PhIP intake using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. This study aimed to determine whether PhIP dietary intake is higher in AA men, potentially contributing to this health disparity. Healthy AA men were found to have a significantly higher mean hair PhIP level (2.12-fold) than White men on free-choice diets. However, this difference was not statistically significant after adjusting for melanin content. Further research is needed to understand how hair pigmentation, follicular density, and other morphological features of hair influence PhIP accumulation. These insights can improve the accuracy of using hair PhIP levels as a biomarker for exposure and its potential associations with cancer risk.
Genetic and Molecular Characterization of Avian Influenza A(H9N2) Viruses from Live Bird Markets (LBM) in Senegal
Authors: Jallow Mamadou Malado , Diagne Moussa Moise , Ndione Marie Henriette Dior , Barry Mamadou Aliou , Ndiaye Ndiendé Koba , Kiori Davy Evrard , Mendy Marie Pedapa , Goudiaby Déborah , Fall Gamou , Fall Malick , Dia Ndongo
Published: January 2025

Despite extensive experience with influenza surveillance in humans in Senegal, there is limited knowledge about the actual situation and genetic diversity of avian influenza viruses (AIVs) circulating in the country, hindering control measures and pandemic risk assessment. Therefore, as part of the “One Health” approach to influenza surveillance, we conducted active AIV surveillance in two live bird markets (LBMs) in Dakar to better understand the dynamics and diversity of influenza viruses in Senegal, obtain genetic profiles of circulating AIVs, and assess the risk of emergence of novel strains and their transmission to humans. Cloacal swabs from poultry and environmental samples collected weekly from the two LBMs were screened by RT-qPCR for H5, H7, and H9 AIVs. Subsequently, a subset of H9-positive samples was selected for whole sequencing. From December 2023 to October 2024, 499 samples were tested, and AIV was detected in 58.3% of them. Among these, A/H9N2 was the only subtype detected in both markets, with a detection rate of 47.7% (82/172) in Thiaroye and 35.3% (42/119) in Tilene, resulting in an overall positivity rate of 42.6% (124/291). Genome sequencing of 22 A/H9N2 isolates, including 11 poultry drinking water samples, 7 carcass wash water samples, 3 fecal samples, and 1 cloacal swab, yielded 7 complete and 15 partial genomic sequences. Phylogenetic analyses of the resulting sequences showed that the A/H9N2 isolates obtained in this study formed a monophyletic cluster and were closely related to the Senegalese human strain (A/Senegal/0243/2019) identified through the national influenza sentinel surveillance program. These strains were also closely related to the A/H9N2 viruses of the G1 lineage circulating in neighboring countries, suggesting cross-border transmission. The A/H9N2 strains carried the low pathogenicity RSSR/GLF motif at the HA cleavage site and possessed several key amino acid mutations, including HA-I155T and HA-Q226L, which are associated with human host adaptation, PB2-T105V, PB2-A661T, and PB2-A588V, which are linked to the human-to-human transmission and increased polymerase activity, NS2-T14M, NS2-M100I, NS1-I106M, NS1-V222M, NS1-E223A, NS1-I226V, NS1-E227G, and NS1-P228S, which are known to alter virulence (increased or reduced) in humans or mice, and M2-S31N, which promotes drug resistance. Seven potential N-glycosylation sites were predicted in the HA protein and six in the NA protein. The selection pressure analysis revealed that the A/H9N2 isolates were primarily under neutral evolution or purifying selection pressure. Overall, our findings highlight the potential for cross-species transmission of Senegalese A/H9N2 viruses, emphasizing the need for sustained monitoring of these viruses in both animal and human populations.
A Comprehensive Review of the Development and Therapeutic Use of Antivirals in Flavivirus Infection
Authors: Tripathi Aarti , Chauhan Shailendra , Khasa Renu
Published: January 2025

Flaviviruses are a diverse group of viruses primarily transmitted through hematophagous insects like mosquitoes and ticks. Significant expansion in the geographic range, prevalence, and vectors of flavivirus over the last 50 years has led to a dramatic increase in infections that can manifest as hemorrhagic fever or encephalitis, leading to prolonged morbidity and mortality. Millions of infections every year pose a serious threat to worldwide public health, encouraging scientists to develop a better understanding of the pathophysiology and immune evasion mechanisms of these viruses for vaccine development and antiviral therapy. Extensive research has been conducted in developing effective antivirals for flavivirus. Various approaches have been extensively utilized in clinical trials for antiviral development, targeting virus entry, replication, polyprotein synthesis and processing, and egress pathways exploiting virus as well as host proteins. However, to date, no licensed antiviral drug exists to treat the diseases caused by these viruses. Understanding the mechanisms of host–pathogen interaction, host immunity, viral immune evasion, and disease pathogenesis is highly warranted to foster the development of antivirals. This review provides an extensively detailed summary of the most recent advances in the development of antiviral drugs to combat diseases.
A Spike-Based mRNA Vaccine Encapsulated in Phospholipid 1,2-Dioleoyl-sn-Glycero-3-PhosphoEthanolamine Containing Lipid Nanoparticles Induced Potent B- and T-Cell Responses Associated with Protection Against SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19-like Symptoms in Hamsters
Authors: Quadiri Afshana , Prakash Swayam , Zayou Latifa , Dhanushkodi Nisha Rajeswari , Chilukuri Amruth , Ryan Gemma , Wang Kelly , Vahed Hawa , Chentoufi Aziz A. , BenMohamed Lbachir
Published: January 2025

Background: Nucleoside-modified mRNA encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as a promising vaccine strategy, especially for COVID-19. While the LNPs protect mRNA from degradation and efficiently deliver the mRNA to antigen-presenting cells, the effect of lipid composition on the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of mRNA/LNP vaccines is not well characterized. Studies on using the mRNA/LNP platform for vaccines have largely focused on the nucleic acid cargo with less attention paid to the LNP vehicle. Whether the composition and biophysical properties of LNPs impact vaccine performance remains to be fully elucidated. Methods: In the present study, we used SARS-CoV-2 Spike-mRNA as a prototype vaccine to study the effect of four different LNPs with various lipid compositions. Results: We demonstrate that when the same Spike-mRNA was delivered in the LNP4 formulation based on phospholipid 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-Phosphoethanolamine, it outperformed other LNPs (LNP1, LNP2, and LNP3) that are based on different lipids. Compared to the other three LNPs, LNP4 (i) enhanced the phenotypic and functional maturation of dendritic cells; (ii) induced strong T-cell responses; (iii) increased the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and pro-follicular T helper (Tfh) cell cytokines; (iv) induced higher neutralization IgG titers; and (v) provided better protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19-like symptoms in the hamster model. Furthermore, we compared LNP-4 with the commercially available LNPs and found it to provide better T-cell immunity against COVID-19 in hamsters. Conclusion: This study suggests mRNA vaccines encapsulated in Phospholipid 1,2-Dioleoyl-sn-Glycero-3-PhosphoEthanolamine containing LNPs induced Potent B- and T cell immunity. The mechanisms by which Phospholipid 1,2-Dioleoyl-sn-Glycero-3-PhosphoEthanolamine-based LNPs may activate protective B and T cells are discussed.
Nanotechnological Plastic Flooring: Implications for Broiler Chicken Performance, Health, and Carcass Quality
Authors: Przybulinski Bruna Barreto , Garcia Rodrigo Garófallo , Burbarelli Maria Fernanda de Castro , Naas Irenilza de Alencar , Komiyama Claudia Marie , Caldara Fabiana Ribeiro , Heiss Vivian Aparecida Rios de Castilho , Oliveira Kelly Mari Pires de , Araújo Renata Pires de , Valentim Jean Kaique
Published: January 2025

This study evaluated the effects of two types of plastic flooring—one with and one without nanotechnological antimicrobial additives—used as complete or partial replacements for wood shavings on broiler chicken performance, yield, meat quality, and litter microbiology over 42 days. A total of 1500 Ross 408® male broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five treatment groups: wood shavings (WS), plastic flooring (PF), a 50/50 mix of plastic flooring and wood shavings (PF + WS), plastic flooring with antimicrobial additives (PFA), and a 50/50 mix of antimicrobial plastic flooring and wood shavings (PFA + WS). This study evaluated organ biometrics (liver, heart, spleen, and gizzard), the severity of Eimeria lesions, microbiological profiles, performance indices, and meat quality. The results indicated that plastic flooring, particularly when used alone, presented challenges such as increased intestinal lesions related to coccidiosis and a higher prevalence of Salmonella. Moreover, broilers raised on plastic flooring presented worse feed conversion and lower body weights and carcass yields than those raised on wood shavings. The meat quality was also negatively affected, with plastic flooring leading to less favorable fillet characteristics. Overall, the use of plastic flooring reduced the performance and health parameters of broiler chickens.
Air–Ice–Water Temperature and Radiation Transfer via Different Surface Coverings in Ice-Covered Qinghai Lake of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Niu Ruijia , Wen Lijuan , Wang Chan , Tang Hong , Leppäranta Matti
Published: January 2025

There are numerous lakes in the Tibetan Plateau (TP) that significantly impact regional climate and aquatic ecosystems, which often freeze seasonally owing to the high altitude. However, the special warming mechanisms of lake water under ice during the frozen period are poorly understood, particularly in terms of solar radiation penetration through lake ice. The limited understanding of these processes has posed challenges to advancing lake models and improving the understanding of air–lake energy exchange during the ice-covered period. To address this, a field experiment was conducted at Qinghai Lake, the largest lake in China, in February 2022 to systematically examine thermal conditions and radiation transfer across air–ice–water interfaces. High-resolution remote sensing technologies (ultrasonic instrument and acoustic Doppler devices) were used to observe the lake surface changes, and MODIS imagery was also used to validate differences in lake surface conditions. Results showed that the water temperature under the ice warmed steadily before the ice melted. The observation period was divided into three stages based on surface condition: snow stage, sand stage, and bare ice stage. In the snow and sand stages, the lake water temperature was lower due to reduced solar radiation penetration caused by high surface reflectance (61% for 2 cm of snow) and strong absorption by 8 cm of sand (absorption-to-transmission ratio of 0.96). In contrast, during the bare ice stage, a low reflectance rate (17%) and medium absorption-to-transmission ratio (0.86) allowed 11% of solar radiation to penetrate the ice, reaching 11.70 W·m−2, which increased the water temperature across the under-ice layer, with an extinction coefficient for lake water of 0.39 (±0.03) m−1. Surface coverings also significantly influenced ice temperature. During the bare ice stage, the ice exhibited the lowest average temperature and the greatest diurnal variations. This was attributed to the highest daytime radiation absorption, as indicated by a light extinction coefficient of 5.36 (±0.17) m−1, combined with the absence of insulation properties at night. This study enhances understanding of the characteristics of water/ice temperature and air–ice–water solar radiation transfer through effects of different ice coverings (snow, sand, and ice) in Qinghai Lake and provides key optical radiation parameters and in situ observations for the refinement of TP lake models, especially in the ice-covered period.
Two-Dimensional Analysis of Air–Water Interaction in Actual Water Pipe-Filling Processes
Authors: Paternina-Verona Duban A. , Coronado-Hernández Oscar E. , Fuertes-Miquel Vicente S. , Arrieta-Pastrana Alfonso , Ramos Helena M.
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates air–water interactions during a controlled filling process of an actual water pipeline using a two-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model. The main objectives are to understand the dynamic interaction of these fluids through water inflow patterns, pressure pulses, and air-pocket dynamics based on contours. This study uses an existing cast iron pipeline 485 m in length, a nominal diameter of 400 mm, and an air valve with a nominal diameter of 50 mm. The methodology of this CFD model includes the Partial Volume of Fluid (pVoF) method for air–water interface tracking, a turbulence model, mesh sensitivity and numerical validation with pressure and velocity measurements. Results highlight the gradual pressurization of pipelines and air pocket behavior at critical points and show the thermodynamic interaction concerning heat transfer between gas and liquid. This study advances the application of CFD in actual water pipelines, offering a novel approach to air pocket management.
A Novel Intelligent Learning Method for Identifying Gross Errors in Dam Deformation Monitoring Series
Authors: Fang Chunhui , Wang Xue , Li Jianchao , Wu Luobin , Wang Jiayi , Gu Hao
Published: January 2025

In view of the problem that traditional dam outlier identification methods mostly rely on single-monitoring-point models and do not fully consider the spatio-temporal correlation characteristics of deformation between monitoring points, which can easily lead to the misdiagnosis of outliers, this paper proposes a novel Ward-VMD-BiLSTM-Iforest method for identifying gross errors in dam deformation monitoring. By integrating spatio-temporal clustering, variational mode decomposition (VMD), and BiLSTM neural networks, the method effectively identifies outliers while avoiding the misclassification of data mutations caused by environmental changes. Compared to traditional models (GRU, LSTM, and BiLSTM), the HHO-BiLSTM model demonstrates superior performance, achieving an R2 of 0.97775 at TCN08, with a reduced MAE and better accuracy. In comparison with the Raida and Romanovsky criteria, the proposed method achieves 100% precision and 100% recall, significantly improving detection accuracy and reducing misjudgment. This method provides an effective and reliable solution for dam deformation outlier detection.
Comprehensive Assessment of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Pollution in a Coastal Region: Contributions from Nearshore and Offshore Sources
Authors: Chen Chenyu , Wang Ying , Chen Fei , Wang Xinyue , Zhang Qiao , Sun Jialong , Li Si , Chen Qiang , Shang Fangze , Zhang Hui
Published: January 2025

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have become a well-known class of anthropogenic pollutants in coastal regions. It is known that PFAS primarily enter the sea from nearshore sources, dry deposition, and wet deposition. However, the contribution of offshore sources to PFAS pollution in the sea remains poorly understood. Our study aims to investigate the occurrence of 74 PFAS across 15 groups in a coastal region of eastern China and to characterize their spatial distribution by focusing on the critical roles of both nearshore and offshore sources. Results revealed that 26 PFAS were detected in the coastal region (i.e., Ou River and Wenzhou Bay), with detection frequencies ranging from 4.3% to 100.0%. Notably, over 10 PFAS were detected for the first time in the region, such as perfluorooctane sulfonamide (FOSA), hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA), and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (6:2 FTSA), among others. The concentrations of detected PFAS ranged from 0.0018 to 76.31 ng/L, with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) as the dominant congener. Spatial analysis indicated that the nearshore area was more severely polluted compared to the offshore area, with specific hotspots identified near industrialized areas. However, the distribution of certain PFAS, such as perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS) and perfluoro-3,6-dioxaheptanoic acid (PFDHA), exhibited a contrasting pattern, with higher concentrations observed in the offshore area and near island perimeters. These findings suggest that PFAS pollution in Wenzhou Bay originates from both nearshore and offshore sources, highlighting a complex interplay between nearshore and island-related activities.
Multi-Objective Water Allocation for Wu’an City
Authors: Guo Dandan , Zhang Dasheng , Xu Dan , Bian Yu , Pan Yibing
Published: January 2025

To solve the prominent problem of water supply and demand contradictions, enhance water resource security capabilities, and improve economic, social, and ecological benefits, this paper comprehensively analyzes the water resource situation in Wu’an City and proposes a method for calculating the rigid water demand and total water demand threshold for the whole city and a method for calculating the water supply capacity of multiple water sources. At the same time, taking economic, social, and ecological benefits as the objective function and water resource allocation rules, water supply balance, water supply capacity, total water consumption, water consumption per Chinese Yuan (CNY) 10,000 of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), water consumption per CNY 10,000 of industrial added value, and non-negative as constraints, the water resource optimization allocation model for Wu’an City was constructed, and the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm III (NSGA-III) combined with the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOSPIS) was used to solve it. The results show that the rigid water demand of Wu’an City is met, the Gini coefficient of water supply satisfaction and ecological water shortage in the flat water scenario are both 0, the overall difference in water supply satisfaction of each township is very small, and the ecological water demand is met. Under the current situation, Wu’an City basically achieves a regional supply and demand balance, which can increase water supply by 5.841 million m3 and increase the net economic benefit of water supply by CNY 136.5515 million. The optimized water resource allocation plan has higher economic, social, and ecological benefits. The research can provide technical support for water resource management in Wu’an City.
Ekowisata Mangrove dalam Pariwisata Berkelanjutan di Sumatera Utara
Authors: Utomo Devi Kartika Sari , Pulungan Afran Rouzani
Published: January 2025

Pembangunan kepariwisataan Indonesia didasarkan pada bahwa pariwisata harus melindungi dan melestarikan lingkungan hidup secara holistik. Oleh sebab itu, pengembangan pariwisata harus berfokus pada keberlanjutan yang mencakup lingkungan alam, sosial, ekonomi dan budaya. Salah satu upaya yang dilakukan dalam mewujudkan pariwisata yang berkelanjutan adalah melalui pendekatan ekowisata. Pendekatan ekowisata ini telah banyak dilakukan di Indonesia termasuk di Sumatera Utara. Salah satu jenis ekowisata yang ada di Sumatera Utara adalah ekowisata mangrove. Ekowisata mangrove tidak hanya berperan dalam menciptakan suatu daya tarik wisata, tetapi juga dalam upaya meminimalisir dampak perubahan iklim dan bencana alam di kawasan pesisir pantai serta meningkatkan perekonomian masyarakat setempat. Jurnal ini membahas kondisi ekowisata mangrove dan peranannya terhadap pembangunan pariwisata yang berkelanjutan di Sumatera Utara. Metode yang digunakan dalam tulisan ini adalah studi kepustakaan atau literatur dengan teknik analisis konten dari pustaka yang telah dikumpulkan. Hasil studi pustaka diperoleh persebaran dan kondisi ekowisata mangrove di Sumatera Utara, peran ekowisata mangrove, dan hambatan pengembangannya serta langkah optimalisasi ekowisata mangrove yang patut dipertimbangkan dalam upaya pengembangannya.
The collaborative economy and its disruptive impact on traditional markets
Authors: Marushchak Svitlana , Varenyk Oleg , Zhuk Oleksii , Shamborovskyi Grygoriy , Vasylyk Sergii
Published: January 2025

The sharing economy has emerged as a disruptive force, transforming how goods and services are accessed and utilized. This paper comprehensively analyzes the benefits, challenges, and impacts of the sharing economy on traditional markets. Through a systematic literature review, the study examines this collaborative model's economic, social, and environmental implications. Key findings highlight the increased efficiency and sustainability of resource utilization but also reveal challenges such as regulatory complexities and disruptions in conventional business models. The study underscores the need for holistic frameworks to protect stakeholders and ensure the sustainable growth of sharing economy platforms. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of continuous research to address emerging trends and challenges in this dynamic landscape.
Pengambilan Keputusan Berusahatani Tanaman Hias Petani Muda Desa Sidomulyo
Authors: Alfisyahr Fatiha Nur , Hamyana Hamyana , Sawitri Budi
Published: January 2025

Fenomena regenerasi petani di beberapa wilayah menunjukkan nilai yang turun karena rendahnya minat para generasi muda dalam dunia pertanian. Hal ini bertolak belakang dengan fenomena yang terjadi di Desa Sidomulyo yang menangkap bahwa sebagain besar petani muda lebih memilih bekerja menjadi petani. Hal ini membawa harapan bahwa masih ada generasi muda yang masih ingin terjun dalam dunia pertanian. Berdasarkan hal tersebut, peneliti ingin mengetahui alasan dibalik keinginan petani muda di Desa Sidomuyo untuk bekerja menjadi petani maupun wirausahawanditinjau dari beberapa pertimbangan untuk melakukan pengambilan keputusan berusahatani tanaman hias. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui deskripsi beberapa pertimbangan dalam pengambilan keputusan berusahatani tanaman hias oleh petani muda di Desa Sidomulyo, Kota Batu. Metode penelitian menggunakan metode deskriptif untuk menggambarkan pertimbangan untuk memutuskan melakukan usahatani.
Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, didapatkan hasil pengambilan keputusan berada dalam kategori sedang dengan persentase sebesar 57% yang menyatakan bahwa ditinjau dari beberapa pertimbangan yang melatarbelakangi keputusan usahatani tanaman hias yang dilakukan, keputusan yang diambil sebagian besar karena pendapatan, budidaya, pemasaran, dukungan keluarga, dan pengaruh masyarakat.
Renal manifestations of hemochromatosis; an update to recent findings
Authors: Alimohammadi Shahrzad , Moradi Nahid , Ansari Nabiha Midhat , Shirbacheh Ali , Shirbache Kamran
Published: January 2025

Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that results in excessive iron absorption, followed by iron overload in various organs including the kidneys. IgA nephropathy, on the other hand, is the immunoglobulin A (IgA) deposition in the glomeruli mesangium. Hemochromatosis-associated IgA nephropathy is a condition described as both hemochromatosis and IgA nephropathy in an individual. Recently, there has been growing evidence suggesting a potential association between IgA nephropathy and hemochromatosis. Previous studies have indicated that individuals with hemochromatosis may have an increased risk of developing IgA nephropathy. Some studies suggest a higher prevalence of hemochromatosis-associated gene mutations particularly HFE gene mutations, in IgA nephropathy patients. These gene mutations may affect iron metabolism and contribute to the development of both conditions. Excessive iron in the kidney may also be associated with increasing inflammatory response and IgA deposition in the glomeruli. Treatment options for hemochromatosis-associated IgA include corticosteroids, RAS blockade, immunosuppressive agents, and supportive care for chronic kidney disease.
A Comparative Study of Selected Physical Fitness between Tribal and Non-Tribal High School Boy Students in Kodagu District
Authors: M Raghavendra , C Channappa , Madialagan S
Published: January 2025

To reach the goal of this investigation was to find out whether there was a significant difference of selected physical fitness ability between the high school boy students of tribal (TB) and Non-tribal (Non-TB) in kodagu district. Total ninety-six (n=96) samples has chosen through the technique of purposive sampling for the tribal students (n=48) and simple random technique for the students of non-tribal (n=48), the aged between 13 – 15 years in 2023-24th academic years. With the literature support, this study was taken point out their physical fitness components such as Leg-explosive Strength (ST) and Flexibility for investigation. The Standing broad jump (SBJ) and sit & reach (S & R) flexibility test was exercised to assess the variables. After collection of the data with systematic manner, the ANOVA technique was exercised which was considered appropriate to identify the significant variations of selected variables between the sample of TB and Non-TB. The significant level was fixed at 0.05 %. The results was indicated that selected tribal secondary school students had more mean score of explosive ST than the students of non-tribal (f=4.05;p=0.05<). In the meanwhile, the ability of flexibility was higher in students of non- tribal than the tribal which is shows the statistical similarities. In other words, there was no significant difference at 0.05% between these kinds of students in this study. The present investigation suggested and recommended that if tribal students get opportunities in strength based sports events, they can give excellent performance than non-tribal students.