bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Different Levels of Maternally Derived Genotype VII Newcastle Disease Virus-Specific Hemagglutination Inhibition Antibodies on Protection against Virulent Challenge in Chicks
Authors: Liu Mei , Shen Xinyue , Yu Yan , Li Jianmei , Fan Jianhua , Jia Xuebo , Dai Yabin
Published: August 2023

Newcastle disease (ND), caused by the virulent Newcastle disease virus (NDV), is an acute, highly contagious, and economically significant avian disease worldwide. Vaccination is the most effective measure for controlling ND. In recent years, vaccines matched with the prevalent strains of genotype VII have been developed and are now commercially available. These vaccines can provide full protection for chickens against clinical disease and mortality after challenges with genotype VII viruses and significantly decrease virus shedding compared to conventional vaccines belonging to genotypes I and II. Vaccinated hens can transfer antibodies to their offspring through the egg yolk. Maternally derived antibodies can provide passive protection against diseases but can also interfere with vaccination efficacy early in life. This study was conducted on chicks hatched from hens vaccinated with a commercial genotype VII NDV-matched vaccine to investigate the correlation between hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody levels in chicks and hens and the decaying pattern of maternally derived HI antibodies, and to evaluate the protective efficacy of different levels of maternally derived HI antibodies against challenge with a virulent NDV strain of genotype VII based on survivability and virus shedding. The HI antibody titers in chicks at hatching were about 1.3 log2 lower than those in hens, indicating an antibody transfer rate of approximately 41.52%. The estimated half-life of these antibodies was about 3.2 days. The protective efficacy of maternally derived HI antibodies was positively correlated with the titer. These antibodies could effectively protect chicks against mortality when the titer was 7 log2 or higher, but they were unable to prevent virus shedding or infection even at a high titer of 11 log2. The obtained results will greatly assist producers in determining the immune status of chicks and formulating appropriate vaccination schedules against ND.
Acquisition of Humoral Immune Responses in Convalescent Japanese People with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Infection in 2021
Authors: Monzen Koshiro , Watanabe Takanori , Okabe Toshihiro , Sekino Hisakuni , Nakagami Hironori , Morishita Ryuichi
Published: August 2023

We investigated humoral immune responses in 222 unvaccinated Japanese people after recovery from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in 2021. Anti-spike-protein IgG antibody levels and neutralizing antibody titers were measured in serum samples obtained within 20–180 days after diagnosis. The geometric mean of antibody titers was 1555 ELU/mL (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1257–1923), and the neutralizing activity (50% inhibitory dilution) was 253 (95% CI = 204–313). The antibody titer and neutralizing activity both increased with increasing disease severity, and both values were approximately fourfold higher for hospitalized patients than for non-hospitalized patients. However, these differences were smaller in older patients. The humoral immune response, which increased with increasing disease severity, gradually decreased over time after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Most patients with mild or moderate symptoms sustained neutralizing activity for up to 180 days after the infection; the decay of the neutralizing activity in the asymptomatic patients was rather faster than in the other groups. Around 11.7% (26/222) of patients had very low neutralizing activity, and half of these were aged in their 20s. Our study’s results show the importance of measuring the neutralizing activity to confirm the immune status and to estimate the timing of vaccines.
Antibiotic-Resistant ESKAPE Pathogens and COVID-19: The Pandemic beyond the Pandemic
Authors: Catalano Alessia , Iacopetta Domenico , Ceramella Jessica , Pellegrino Michele , Giuzio Federica , Marra Maria , Rosano Camillo , Saturnino Carmela , Sinicropi Maria Stefania , Aquaro Stefano
Published: August 2023

Antibacterial resistance is a renewed public health plague in modern times, and the COVID-19 pandemic has rekindled this problem. Changes in antibiotic prescribing behavior, misinformation, financial hardship, environmental impact, and governance gaps have generally enhanced the misuse and improper access to antibiotics during the COVID-19 pandemic. These determinants, intersected with antibacterial resistance in the current pandemic, may amplify the potential for a future antibacterial resistance pandemic. The occurrence of infections with multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), difficult-to-treat drug-resistant (DTR), carbapenem-resistant (CR), and pan-drug-resistant (PDR) bacteria is still increasing. The aim of this review is to highlight the state of the art of antibacterial resistance worldwide, focusing on the most important pathogens, namely Enterobacterales, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, and their resistance to the most common antibiotics.
Sequencing and Partial Molecular Characterization of BAB-TMP, the Babeș Strain of the Fixed Rabies Virus Adapted for Multiplication in Cell Lines
Authors: Podgoreanu Paulina , Petre Alexandru , Tănasă Radu Iulian , Dinu Sorin , Oprea Mihaela , Marandiuc Ilinca-Mihaela , Vlase Ene
Published: August 2023

The rabies virus is a major zoonosis that causes severe nervous disease in humans, leading to paralysis and death. The world’s second anti-rabies center was established in 1888 by Victor Babeș, in Bucharest, where an eponymous strain of rabies was isolated and used to develop a method for immunization. The Babeș strain of the rabies virus was used for over 100 years in Romania to produce a rabies vaccine for human use, based on animal nerve tissue, thus having a proven history of prophylactic use. The present study aimed to sequence the whole genome of the Babeș strain and to explore its genetic relationships with other vaccine strains as well as to characterize its relevant molecular traits. After being adapted for multiplication in cell lines and designated BAB-TMP, 99% of the viral genome was sequenced. The overall organization of the genome is similar to that of other rabies vaccine strains. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the BAB-TMP strain is closely related to the Russian RV-97 vaccine strain, and both seem to have a common ancestor. The nucleoprotein gene of the investigated genome was the most conserved, and the glycoprotein showed several unique amino acid substitutions within the major antigenic sites and linear epitopes.
Sampling Strategies in PRRS Elimination in Hungary: An Observational Study Involving Four Farrow-to-Finish Swine Herds
Authors: Fornyos Kinga , Búza László , Makkai István , Polyák Ferenc , Pogácsás Imre , Savoia Luca , Szegedi László , Bálint Ádám , Jakab Szilvia , Bányai Krisztián , Szabó István
Published: August 2023

PRRS elimination strategies often rely on depopulation-repopulation. However, this approach is accompanied by a long-term loss of production. With adequate control measures, such as well-designed immunization programs and technological changes along with prevalence-based laboratory testing, the virus-free status of the most vulnerable age groups in swine herds can be achieved. The most common reason for acquiring PRRSV at large farrow-to-finish swine farm units is that the previously settled fattening pigs serve as a source of infection for the newly reared PRRS-free animals. Following such unwanted events, PRRSV may persist in an affected establishment for several years. In this observational study, we selected four farrow-to-finish type swine herds. We implemented different laboratory testing protocols to find the most optimal solution for a successful PRRS elimination program. To aid our objectives, we used a DIVA PCR technique. The PRRS DIVA PCR assay is a fast, reliable method to identify sows shedding farm-specific PRRSV strain(s). As a result of elimination efforts at the sentinel pig herds, we found that reliable detection of wild-type PRRSV shedding among sows requires sampling at least three weaned piglets per litter. The strict adherence to this sampling protocol, the systematic use of laboratory methods that quickly detect the presence of wild virulent virus in the herd during the rearing period and the culling of DIVA PCR positive litters and their sows decreased the presence of the resident virus markedly. These procedures at Hungarian farrow-to-finish type farms successfully inhibited the wild-type PRRSV infection of different age groups. The results of this study demonstrate that applying this methodology together with strict biosecurity measures enabled us to reach PRRS-vaccinated-free status in large, farrow-to-finish herds within two years.
Potential Toxic-Element Pollution in Surface Water and Its Implications for Aquatic and Human Health: Source–Pathway–Receptor Model
Authors: Belle Gladys , Schoeman Yolandi , Oberholster Paul
Published: August 2023

This study focused on assessing the extent of pollution in both flowing and non-flowing surface water within the Matjhabeng mining area of South Africa, with particular emphasis on the substantial impact of gold mine tailings. A comprehensive analysis of physical water-quality attributes, including potentially toxic elements (PTEs), and relevant pollution risk indices was undertaken. To comprehensively elucidate the potential risks to aquatic organisms and human health, a risk assessment framework predicated upon the source–pathway–receptor model was developed. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was employed as a multivariate statistical tool to discern the potential origins of PTE contamination within the environment. The results substantiate pronounced pollution manifestations within the surface water milieu of the Matjhabeng mining area. Specifically, concentrations of critical PTEs, such as arsenic, cobalt, copper, iron, selenium, and zinc, exhibited transgressions of the regulatory thresholds stipulated by both the South African Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) and the Canadian Council of the Ministers of the Environment (CCME). Additionally, concentrations of the aforementioned elements exceeded the stipulated DWAF guidelines for irrigation water usage. Pollution indices, encompassing the Single-Factor Pollution Index and the Nemerow Integrated Pollution Index, discerned moderate contamination stemming from As, while remarkably elevated pollution levels were identified for selenium. PCA elucidated 94.5% of the aggregate variance, revealing cobalt, copper, nickel, and zinc as coalescing within PC1, indicative of a common anthropogenic provenance that is conceivably linked to historical gold mine tailings. PC2 exhibited an aggregation of chromium, iron, and lead, reaffirming this shared anthropogenic etiology. The third PCA component was characterized by selenium, followed by arsenic and magnesium in the fourth. The resultant PTE contamination underscores a profound ecological and public health risk, impacting both the aquatic ecosystems and the local community within the precincts of the Matjhabeng Local Municipality (MLM) area, with consequential amplification of susceptibilities to deleterious health consequences. Urgent and concerted interventions are imperative to ameliorate the emergent decline in surface-water quality within the MLM locale. The adoption of nature-based remediation paradigms holds promise for efficaciously elevating water quality, ameliorating community health, and underpinning the long-term economic viability of the region.
Unconventional Water Use Allocation in Harbin, China
Authors: Guo Hongcong , Sun Yingna , Teng Yun , Dong He , Li Hui , Wang Liquan , Wang Ziyi , Yang Jianwu
Published: August 2023

To lessen the strain on Harbin’s water resources and enhance the environment, it is crucial to analyze the key determining factors for the use of unconventional water resources in the city and to allocate unconventional water reasonably among various industries in the planning year. In this study, a back-propagation neural network (BP neural network) model is used to predict the potential for unconventional water resource utilization in the planning year (2025), a gray correlation analysis model is used to evaluate water-using industries, and finally, an unconventional water resource allocation scheme for the study is used to determine the main influencing factors and determine the weights of key indicators. The findings demonstrate a strong correlation between Harbin’s level of investment and construction, economic efficiency, cost, level of water demand, and social factors, as well as a low level of utilization of unconventional water resources throughout the city.
Comparing Six Vegetation Indexes between Aquatic Ecosystems Using a Multispectral Camera and a Parrot Disco-Pro Ag Drone, the ArcGIS, and the Family Error Rate: A Case Study of the Peruvian Jalca
Authors: Veneros Jaris , Chavez Segundo , Oliva Manuel , Arellanos Erick , Maicelo Jorge L. , García Ligia
Published: August 2023

A Parrot Sequoia four-band multispectral camera mounted on a Parrot Disco-Pro Ag drone allowed us to study six vegetation indexes in four lakes within the Tilacancha Private Conservation Area (PCA) in 2021. These lakes are a source of water for consumption for more than 32,000 people in the province of Chachapoyas in the Amazon region of Peru. To obtain the six vegetation indexes (Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index—GNDVI; Leaf Chlorophyll Index—LCI; Modified Chlorophyll Absorption in Reflective Index—MCARI; Normalized Difference Red Edge—NDRE; Normalized Difference Vegetation Index—NDVI; and Structure Intensive Pigment Index 2S—SIPI2), Pix4DFields 1.8.1 software was used. The sensitivity and distribution of pixel values were compared in histograms and Q–Q plots for each index. Statistical differences were established for each index, and the SIPI2 obtained the highest level of sensitivity concerning the degree of pixel distribution in the ranges shown in the histogram according to the standard deviation; however, the values of all the indexes were not disregarded, because they showed statistical differences between lakes despite their closeness. The family error rate and Tukey-Kramer HSD statistics allowed for establishing statistical differences between pairs of lakes. The six vegetation indexes can be used to detect and analyze the dynamics of biological beings with photosynthetic activity in aquatic ecosystems of the Peruvian Jalca.
Hydrocarbon Potential and Reservoir Characteristics of Lacustrine Shale: A Case of Lower Jurassic in the Western Qaidam Basin, NW China
Authors: Liu Bingqiang , Wang Min , Cao Yupeng , Yan Zhiming
Published: August 2023

The Lower Jurassic lacustrine shale is well developed in the western Qaidam Basin and characterized by significant thickness and continuous distribution. Previous investigations have indicated its substantial potential as a shale gas resource. Based on experiments of organic carbon content, vitrinite reflectance, rock-eval pyrolysis, X-ray diffraction, and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, the hydrocarbon potential and reservoir characteristics of Lower Jurassic lacustrine shale in the western Qaidam Basin were systematically analyzed. The results show that the total organic carbon (TOC) content ranges from 1.71% to 4.49%, with an average of 2.98%. The kerogen belongs to type II–III. The vitrinite reflectance (Ro) ranges from 1.05% to 1.95%, with an average of 1.62%, indicating that the kerogen has reached the high thermal maturity stage (gas window). The maximum pyrolysis peak temperature (Tmax) ranges from 408 °C to 580 °C, with an average of 498.38 °C, further supporting the high thermal maturity of the kerogen. The content of brittle minerals, including quartz, feldspar, pyrite, and carbonate, ranges from 21% to 44% (averaging 32.54%), which is comparable to shale minerals found in American Ohio shale. The pore structure of the shale is predominantly characterized by open parallel plate slit pores and inclined slit pores. The pore diameter distribution curve can be divided into two types, including unimodal distribution and bimodal distribution. Micropores and mesopores contribute significantly to the specific surface area, and mesopores account for the highest proportion of pore volume. The thermal evolution degree has a direct impact on pore development of shale reservoirs. The micropore, mesopore, macropore, and total pore volumes of lacustrine shale in the study area show a negative correlation with TOC content, indicating that the organic matter within the shale is probably still in the first pyrolysis stage. However, no significant correlation is observed between pore volume and clay mineral content or between pore volume and brittle mineral content due to the complex interplay of several geological factors. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the lacustrine shale gas resource potential and can guide future exploration and exploitation efforts. In addition, the systematic analysis of reservoir characteristics serves as a foundation for the introduction and exploration of new shale fracturing technologies, which is of great significance for reducing the consumption of water resources and mitigating potential geo-disasters.
FishSeg: 3D Fish Tracking Using Mask R-CNN in Large Ethohydraulic Flumes
Authors: Yang Fan , Moldenhauer-Roth Anita , Boes Robert M. , Zeng Yuhong , Albayrak Ismail
Published: August 2023

To study the fish behavioral response to up- and downstream fish passage structures, live-fish tests are conducted in large flumes in various laboratories around the world. The use of multiple fisheye cameras to cover the full width and length of a flume, low color contrast between fish and flume bottom and non-uniform illumination leading to fish shadows, air bubbles wrongly identified as fish as well as fish being partially hidden behind each other are the main challenges for video-based fish tracking. This study improves an existing open-source fish tracking code to better address these issues by using a modified Mask Regional-Convolutional Neural Network (Mask R-CNN) as a tracking method. The developed workflow, FishSeg, consists of four parts: (1) stereo camera calibration, (2) background subtraction, (3) multi-fish tracking using Mask R-CNN, and (4) 3D conversion to flume coordinates. The Mask R-CNN model was trained and validated with datasets manually annotated from background subtracted videos from the live-fish tests. Brown trout and European eel were selected as target fish species to evaluate the performance of FishSeg with different types of body shapes and sizes. Comparison with the previous method illustrates that the tracks generated by FishSeg are about three times more continuous with higher accuracy. Furthermore, the code runs more stable since fish shadows and air bubbles are not misidentified as fish. The trout and eel models produced from FishSeg have mean Average Precisions (mAPs) of 0.837 and 0.876, respectively. Comparisons of mAPs with other R-CNN-based models show the reliability of FishSeg with a small training dataset. FishSeg is a ready-to-use open-source code for tracking any fish species with similar body shapes as trout and eel, and further fish shapes can be added with moderate effort. The generated fish tracks allow researchers to analyze the fish behavior in detail, even in large experimental facilities.
Investigating Earthquake-Induced Changes in the Persian Gulf Marginal Strip, Using Sentinel-1A Images and Radar Interferometry
Authors: Mohammadhasani Mohammad , Kamali Fateme , Rashidi Ahmad , Bahrampour Mobin , Shafieibafti Shahram , Abbaspour Razieh , Derakhshani Reza
Published: August 2023

Geohazards, such as earthquakes, pose significant threats to human life and infrastructure in various regions across the globe. Iran, in particular, is highly vulnerable to earthquakes due to its unique structural and tectonic characteristics. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor geohazards in order to mitigate their impacts. Several techniques, including the global positioning system, geodesy, tacheometry, and mapping cameras, have been developed for this purpose. Among these methods, radar interferometry has emerged as a particularly accurate and cost-effective approach. It is capable of operating under all weather conditions, 24 h a day, and can cover large areas with high spatial and temporal resolution. In this research, we employed Sentinel 1A images and radar interferometry to investigate the changes in the Earth’s surface following earthquakes in the marginal strip of the Persian Gulf. Specifically, our focus was on earthquakes in Bandar Khamir, and we analyzed the Earth’s surface changes three days and fifteen days after the events. The findings of our study revealed that the most significant uplift occurred around Bandar Khamir, with an uplift rate of 14 cm. Conversely, the highest subsidence was observed near Bandar Charak, with a subsidence of 12 cm. Furthermore, we observed a rise of 32 cm around the eastern and northern regions of Bandar Khamir 11 days after the initial period, accompanied by a subsidence of 31 cm around Bandar Lange and Bandar Charak. These results underscore the importance of continuous monitoring of earthquakes and their impact on the Earth’s surface, particularly in coastal areas where the effects on the water table and coastal infrastructure can be severe. In conclusion, this study highlights the significance of employing radar interferometry as a powerful tool for monitoring and assessing the impacts of earthquakes.
Particle Size Distribution and Composition of Soil Sample Analysis in a Single Pumping Well Using a Scanning Electron Microscope Coupled with an Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) and the Laser Diffraction Method (LDM)
Authors: Akhtar Naseem , Syakir Muhammad Izzuddin , Tweib Saleh Ali , Aminuddin Muhammad Irman Khalif Ahmad , Yusuff Mohamad Shaiful Md , Alsabhan Abdullah H. , Alfaisal Faisal M. , Alam Shamshad , Qadri Jibran
Published: August 2023

Soil is a heterogeneous material, and its properties are vital from an agricultural perspective and for groundwater management. However, limited studies have been performed on the soil characteristics (soil texture, water-holding capacity, and soil compositions) of a single pumping well, especially in Malaysia. This article focuses on the soil characteristics and elemental analysis of a single borehole with 11 samples collected around Labu Kubong, Perak. The soil properties were analyzed in the context of particle size distribution (PSD) using the laser diffraction method (LDM), as well as soil composition for elemental analysis using a scanning electron microscope coupled with an energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX). The LDM results revealed the average percentage of clay, silt, and sand to be 0%, 6%, and 94%, respectively, indicating most particles comprised sand particles which in percentages demonstrated a sandy texture with less silt content. Additionally, the water holding capacity is low because of major coarse sand particles in alluvial formations. Moreover, SEM-EDX outcomes displayed an average percentage of elemental composition reported as follows: C (40.77%), O (34.33%), Si (10.66%), Al (5.82%), Fe (1.10%), K (1.10%), As (0.05%), Na (0.04%), and Be (5.62%). Consequently, SEM-EDX outcomes showed these elements were derived from silicified quartz, feldspar, and iron-bearing minerals that originated from shale formations, and the presence of carbon indicates peat formation. Therefore, this study provides information on a single pumping well from an irrigation practice, and this study also recommends regional to global scale studies for supporting sustainable groundwater development worldwide.
Influence of the Plateau Pika Mound Numbers on Soil Water Erosion Properties in Alpine Meadows of the Yellow River Source Zone, Western China
Authors: Tong Shengchun , Li Guorong , Li Jinfang , Li Xilai , Jiang Chengdong , Zhao Jianyun , Zhu Haili , Liu Yabin , Chen Wenting , Hu Xiasong
Published: August 2023

The plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae) actively contributes to soil erosion and meadow degradation in western China’s Yellow River source zone. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of the pika mound numbers on the hydrodynamic characteristics and soil water erosion through simulated rainfall experiments. The inhibition effects of restored vegetation growth on meadow degradation and soil erosion were explored using a revegetated pika mound as a control. The results showed that at a rainfall intensity of 30 mm/h, the soil loss per unit time increased and then decreased with rainfall time and that 15–20 min of rainfall duration was the sensitive period for soil loss in different pika mound patch lands. The degradation of meadows due to the activities of plateau pika is an essential factor influencing soil erosion, and the soil erosion rate is positively correlated with both the pika mound numbers and slope. The mean flow velocity can better describe the process of the soil erosion, and its value increased with the number of pika mounds and slope. The Reynolds number ranged from 57.85 to 153.63 (Re <500), and it was preliminarily determined that all slope runoff was laminar flow. The Froude number increased linear function with pika mound numbers (p < 0.01), and both the pika mound numbers and slope were significant factors affecting it (p < 0.05). The Darcy–Weisbach resistance coefficient instead decreased with the pika mound numbers and slope, and the inhibitory effect of vegetation on soil erosion was probably limited when the mound numbers reached a certain level. According to the results of the grey correlation and Pearson correlation analysis, changes in the number of pika mounds led to variability in the soil water erosion properties by altering the landscape scale effect. The number of pika mound patches (NP), edge length index (TE), area index (AREA), and volume index (V) were the key influencing factors on the soil erosion rate and hydrodynamic parameters. We conclude that plateau pika activities intensify meadow degradation, and the continuous increase in pika mounds decreases the vegetation cover and flow resistance and increases soil erodibility. Controlling the intensity of plateau pika activities will effectively prevent soil erosion in degraded areas.
Karyotypes and COI Gene Sequences of Chironomus annularius Sensu Lato (Diptera, Chironomidae) from Russia, Mongolia, and Armenia
Authors: Bolshakov Viktor , Prokin Alexander , Mayor Tatyana , Hakobyan Susanna , Movergoz Ekaterina
Published: August 2023

The larvae of the genus Chironomus are a common object for hydrobiological studies, as well as a model object for cytogenetics. Morphologically, the species are very similar. One of these species or species complex is Chironomus “annularius”, which has a Holarctic distribution. It has chromosomal banding sequences characteristic of Nearctic and Palearctic populations. Using an integrated method that included morphology, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics, we analyzed populations from Russia, Mongolia, and Armenia. We found through cytogenetics and larval morphology that the populations have high similarity. Molecular genetic studies have shown significant differences between the populations. The genetic distances between the populations, in some cases, exceed the interspecific threshold of 3%, and are 6.5%. In the South Caucasian population (Lake Sevan), a chromosomal banding sequence, h’annD3, that was previously observed only in North America, was found for the first time. The larvae from Lake Sevan have large genetic distances from others, and are morphologically similar to the species Chironomus markosjani Shilova 1983, described from this lake without comparison with Ch. annularius nor an exact description of the karyotype. The sequences of the COI genes from Montenegro (Lake Skadar) and West Siberia (Novosibirsk) found in GenBank may belong to a new undescribed species, or a species not represented in the database. Thus, the analyzed data on Chironomus “annularius” support the presence of the complex of homosequential species under this name.
Utilizing Entropy-Based Method for Rainfall Network Design in Huaihe River Basin, China
Authors: Liu Jian , Li Yanyan , Wang Yuankun , Xu Pengcheng
Published: August 2023

The nonstationary characteristics caused by significant variation in hydrometeorological series in the context of climate change inevitably have a certain impact on the selection of an optimal gauging network. This study proposes an entropy-based, multi-objective, rain gauge network optimization method to facilitate the design of a 43 stations-based network in Huaihe River Basin (HRB), China. The first goal of this study is to improve the accuracy of gauge-related information estimation through the selection and comparison of discretization methods. The second goal of this study is to quantify the impact of trend-caused nonstationarity on optimal network design using the sliding window method. This study compares the divergence of three kinds of discretization methods, including the floor function-based approach, Scott’s equal bin width histogram (EWH-Sc) approach, and Sturges’s equal bin width histogram (EWH-St) approach. The matching degree of the variance and marginal entropy of the observed series is computed to select the most suitable of the above three discretization methods. The trend-caused nonstationarity in 75% of all stations in the HRB could definitely influence the final results of the optimal rain-gauge network design using the sliding window method. Therefore, in future studies of rain-gauge network optimization, it is necessary to carry out uncertainty research according to local conditions in view of climate change and human activities.
Water Distribution Network Optimization Model with Reliability Considerations in Water Flow (Debit)
Authors: Mawengkang Herman , Syahputra Muhammad Romi , Sutarman Sutarman , Weber Gerhard Wilhelm
Published: August 2023

Water distribution networks (WDNs) are defined as the planning for the development, distribution, and utilization of water resources. The main challenge of WDNs is to preserve limited water resources while providing effective benefits from these resources in accordance with environmental considerations. Water distribution networks use hydraulic components to connect water resources to consumers. The diameter of each pipe, the layout of the pipe network, and the total length of pipes all contribute to the most effective layout for a water distribution system. This study considers the assurance that the flow (discharge) of water is in accordance with what is expected, with such aspects apt to be described as a particular form of reliability. As a result, this study proposes a stochastic optimization model with non-linear probability constraints for overcoming the challenges of water distribution networks while taking water flow reliability into account. The pressure drop equation causes the non-linear shape. The stochastic model of the opportunity constraint is changed to a deterministic multi-objective model using an approach based on integer programming and sample averaging to solve the resulting model. The direct search approach (neighbourhood search) is then applied to tackle the integer part.
Development of Simple Formula for Transverse Dispersion Coefficient in Meandering Rivers
Authors: Baek Kyong Oh , Lee Dong Yeol
Published: August 2023

This study aims to develop a straightforward and practical formula to estimate transverse dispersion coefficients in meandering natural rivers, a critical factor for predicting solute transport. We present a novel expression for the transverse dispersion coefficient based on dispersion and hydraulic data sets obtained from tracer experiments conducted in natural rivers. A distinctive feature of the formula is its reliance on one dimensionless hydraulic parameter, u¯u*hRc. To assess the effectiveness and accuracy of our proposed formula, we compare it with previously established equations commonly employed in the field. Furthermore, we apply the formula to natural river bends situated in the Nakdong River of Korea. This equation serves to estimate the initial value of the dispersion coefficient in two-dimensional solute transport modeling. As a result, the calibrated value of the dimensionless transverse dispersion coefficient is 0.97, which is only a 16% difference between the initial value of 0.81 as obtained from the formula. The formula presented in this study, simplifying and utilizing the dimensionless hydraulic parameter, offers a promising approach to estimating transverse dispersion in natural meandering rivers in cases where tracer and secondary flow data are unavailable. Additionally, the formula can be refined with more recent dispersion data, leading to a clearer, more straightforward, and validated formulation that captures the intricate interplay between topography and transverse dispersion.
Research on Performance Test of the Optic-Electric Sensors for Reservoir Landslide Temperature Field Monitoring
Authors: Cheng Gang , Wang Zhenxue , Wang Ye , Shi Bin , Li Tianbin , Wu Jinghong , Zhang Haoyu , You Qinliang
Published: August 2023

In recent years, with the superposition of extreme climate, earthquakes, engineering disturbance and other effects, global landslide disasters occur frequently. Due to reservoir landslides being mostly in a multi-field coupling environment, the temperature field will impact the deformation and seepage fields, thereby affecting the stability of the reservoir landslide. The variation in the landslide’s surface temperature also directly affects the stress and deformation of deep rock masses. If hidden dangers are not detected in time, and corresponding measures are implemented, it is easy to cause landslide instability. In order to clarify the temperature measurement performance of different optic-electric sensors and the application characteristics of layout techniques, laboratory calibration tests of temperature sensors under different adhesives and attachment materials are carried out in this paper. It was found that the test data of the iron bar had the best effect among the four attachment materials overall. Therefore, the bar with a high-stiffness material should be preferred when selecting a pipe fitting as the fiber Bragg grating (FBG) temperature attachment in the borehole. However, considering the high requirements for the durability of sensors and layout techniques in on-site monitoring, the long-term stability of the adhesives used in actual monitoring needs to be improved. At the same time, it was found that the platinum 100 (PT100) temperature sensor has relatively higher testing accuracy (A: 0.15 + 0.002 × |t|; B: 0.30 + 0.005 × |t|), a larger temperature measurement range (−200~+850 °C) and better temperature measurement stability when compared to conventional sensors. Moreover, its resistance value has a good linear relationship with temperature. Finally, the Xinpu landslide in the Three Gorges Reservoir area was selected as the research object for on-site monitoring. There was a high correlation between the on-site monitoring results with the laboratory calibration test results. Therefore, through the performance test of optic-electric sensors in reservoir landslide temperature fields, more accurate solutions can be provided for selecting sensors and designing layout techniques to monitor the underground temperature field of landslides under different geological conditions. Thereby, grasping the real-time state information of the reservoir landslide temperature field is achieved accurately, providing an important reference for early warning, prediction, prevention and the control of reservoir landslide disasters.
Three-Dimensional Numerical Modelling of Real-Field Dam-Break Flows: Review and Recent Advances
Authors: Maranzoni Andrea , Tomirotti Massimo
Published: August 2023

Numerical modelling is a valuable and effective tool for predicting the dynamics of the inundation caused by the failure of a dam or dyke, thereby assisting in mapping the areas potentially subject to flooding and evaluating the associated flood hazard. This paper systematically reviews literature studies adopting three-dimensional hydrodynamic models for the simulation of large-scale dam-break flooding on irregular real-world topography. Governing equations and numerical methods are analysed, as well as recent advances in numerical techniques, modelling accuracy, and computational efficiency. The dam-break case studies used for model validation are highlighted. The advantages and limitations of the three-dimensional dam-break models are compared with those of the commonly used two-dimensional depth-averaged ones. This review mainly aims at informing researchers and modellers interested in numerical modelling of dam-break flow over real-world topography on recent advances and developments in three-dimensional hydrodynamic models so that they can better direct their future research. Practitioners can find in this review an overview of available three-dimensional codes (research, commercial, freeware, and open-source) and indications for choosing the most suitable numerical method for the application of interest.
Characteristics and Changes in Water Quality Based on Climate and Hydrology Effects in the Cirata Reservoir
Authors: Wiranegara Panjie , Sunardi Sunardi , Sumiarsa Dadan , Juahir Hafizan
Published: August 2023

This research aimed to identify water quality changes in the Cirata Reservoir and the factors affecting them in terms of hydrology and climate. The sampling was carried out in both the rainy and dry seasons at 12 locations in the Cirata Reservoir. The Mann–Whitney U-test (different test) results showed that salinity, total suspended solids (TSS), the potential of hydrogen (pH), nitrate (NO3-N), phosphate (PO4), nitrate and phosphate content in the sediment were significantly different (α < 0.05) between the rainy and dry seasons. The principal component analysis (PCA) results showed that the water quality characteristics in the Cirata Reservoir in the dry season were influenced by environmental conditions in the reservoir, especially by the floating cage aquaculture and climate conditions. The high solar radiation, low rainfall, and floating cage aquaculture increased the pH and amounts of dissolved oxygen (DO), ammonia (NH3-N), PO4, nitrate and phosphate in the sediment while decreasing transparency, salinity, TSS, and NH3-N. During the rainy season, the high runoff from Citarum Watershed controlled the water quality characteristics of the Cirata Reservoir. In this season, transparency, salinity, pH, DO, NH3-N, PO4, nitrate and phosphate in the sediment increased, while TSS tended to be low. In general, the water volume addition decreased the nutrition and salinity concentration in the water body. However, a distinct phenomenon occurred in the Cirata Reservoir. The runoff from agriculture, settlement, livestock, and the Citatah Karst in the Upper Citarum Watershed increased nutrition and salinity in the reservoir. Land use in the Citarum Watershed and floating cage aquaculture had an important role in the reservoir water quality.
Towards an Integrated Design of Direct-Drive Wind Turbine Electrical Generator Supporting Structures
Authors: Touw Lucas , Jaen Sola Pablo , Oterkus Erkan
Published: August 2023

Rotor and stator support structures of significant size and mass are required to withstand the considerable loads that direct-drive wind turbine electrical generators face to maintain an air-gap clearance that is open and stable. With the increase of scale, reducing the weight and environmental impact of these support structures is believed to be one of the key components to unlocking the true potential of direct-drive generators. An investigation on the electrical generator rotor structure of the IEA 15 MW offshore reference wind turbine was conducted. An integrated approach that considered the environmental impact, including the manufacturing energy usage and CO2 footprint, as well as the financial repercussions of structural parameter modifications as they are optimised was followed, making use of distinct commercial pieces of software. The rotor structure was parametrically optimised, and its operating loading conditions were evaluated at various size scales. The study determined that the effect of thermal loading is significant, which forces the designer to augment the mass to comply with the imposed structural requirements. The ensuing life-cycle assessment showed an increase in the environmental impact due to the consideration of this particular load, whose effect in structural deflection and stress has been typically underestimated.
Outcomes Associated with Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitor Use in Acute Heart Failure Hospitalizations Complicated by AKI
Authors: Aklilu Abinet M. , Kumar Sanchit , Yamamoto Yu , Moledina Dennis G. , Sinha Frederick , Testani Jeffrey M. , Wilson F. Perry
Published: August 2023

Key Points

In a multicenter retrospective cohort study of adults hospitalized with acute heart failure, exposure to sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor during AKI was associated with lower risk of 30-day mortality.

Exposure to sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor during acute heart failure–associated AKI was associated with no difference in time to renal recovery.

The findings were reproducible in inverse probability-weighted analysis.

Background

Although sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) use during acute heart failure (AHF) hospitalizations is associated with symptomatic improvement, reduction in rehospitalizations, and mortality, these medications are often withheld during AKI because of concerns about worsening GFR. We aimed to investigate the safety of SGLT2i exposure during AKI among patients hospitalized with AHF. We hypothesized that SGLT2i exposure would not worsen mortality but may prolong return of creatinine to baseline.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of adults hospitalized across five Yale New Haven Health System hospitals between January 2020 and May 2022 with AHF complicated by Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes–defined AKI. Patients with stage 5 CKD and those with potential contraindications to SGLT2i were excluded. We tested the association of SGLT2i use with kidney function recovery at 14 days and death at 30 days using time-varying, multivariable Cox-regression analyses.

Results

Of 3305 individuals hospitalized with AHF and AKI, 356 received SGLT2i after AKI diagnosis either as initiation or continuation. The rate of renal recovery was not significantly different among those exposed and unexposed to SGLT2i after AKI (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.79 to 1.11; P = 0.46). SGLT2i exposure was associated with lower risk of 30-day mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.45; 95% confidence interval, 0.23 to 0.87; P = 0.02). Sensitivity analyses using an inverse probability-weighted time-varying Cox regression analysis and using alternate definitions of AHF with different NT-proBNP cutoffs yielded similar results. Rates of renal recovery were similar between the exposed and unexposed cohorts regardless of the proximity of SGLT2i exposure to AKI diagnosis.

Conclusion

In adults experiencing AHF-associated AKI, exposure to SGLT2i was associated with decreased mortality and no delay in renal recovery. Prospective studies are needed to elucidate the effect of SGLT2i exposure during AKI, particularly during heart failure hospitalizations.
HsGDY on Ni Foam for Loading MoS
2
/Ni
3
S
2
to Enhance the Performance on Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Xiang Jiao , Qu Yuanduo , Zeng Yanxin , Hu Senyu , Xu Huiling , Xia Hong , Ji Muwei , Duan Lianfeng , Lu Fushen
Published: August 2023

Lithium–sulfur batteries are considered important devices for the power of movable equipment, but there are still some challenges that limit their applications, such as how to obtain a cathode for high sulfide adsorption and rapid conversion. Here, a new strategy is proposed to enhance the performance of lithium–sulfur batteries by growing 3-dimensional hydrogen-substituted graphdiyne (HsGDY) layers on Ni foam via Glaser cross-coupling reaction to anchor MoS
2
/Ni
3
S
2
, enhancing the conductivity of host material of S. The results show that the 3-dimensional HsGDY framework enables the fast adsorption of lithium polysulfides and the Ni
3
S
2
/MoS
2
performs as the reaction center with a low charge transfer resistance. The charge capacity of Ni@HsGDY/MoS
2
/Ni
3
S
2
cell is up to 1,234.7 mAh·g
−1
at the first circle, and the specific capacity keeps 486 mAh·g
−1
after 500 cycles at a current density of 2 C. The incorporation of HsGDY into the cathode promotes the adsorption and the conversion of polysulfides, paving a path to obtain lithium–sulfur batteries with high energy density.
Computing Persistent Homology by Spanning Trees and Critical Simplices
Authors: Shi Dinghua , Chen Zhifeng , Ma Chuang , Chen Guanrong
Published: August 2023

Topological data analysis can extract effective information from higher-dimensional data. Its mathematical basis is persistent homology. The persistent homology can calculate topological features at different spatiotemporal scales of the dataset, that is, establishing the integrated taxonomic relation among points, lines, and simplices. Here, the simplicial network composed of all-order simplices in a simplicial complex is essential. Because the sequence of nested simplicial subnetworks can be regarded as a discrete Morse function from the simplicial network to real values, a method based on the concept of critical simplices can be developed by searching all-order spanning trees. Employing this new method, not only the Morse function values with the theoretical minimum number of critical simplices can be obtained, but also the Betti numbers and composition of all-order cavities in the simplicial network can be calculated quickly. Finally, this method is used to analyze some examples and compared with other methods, showing its effectiveness and feasibility.
Adaptación y validación al Español del Inventario Multidimensional de Flexibilidad Psicológica (MPFI): evidencia de validez interna e Invarianza factorial
Authors: Simkin Hugo , Freiberg-Hoffmann Agustin , Caselli Gabriela , Prozzillo Paola , Rogge Ronald D. , Wilson Kelly G.
Published: August 2023

Este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar las propiedades psicométricas y la consistencia interna de la versión en español del Inventario de Flexibilidad Psicológica Multidimensional (MPFI) en población general de Argentina. En el estudio principal participaron un total de 866 participantes con edades entre 18 y 84 años (M = 47,33; DT = 17,26) y de ambos sexos (Hombres = 40,9%; Mujeres = 59,1%). Un modelo de orden superior de 2 factores resultó en índices de ajuste aceptables (NFI = .97; NNFI = .98; CFI = .98; IFI = .98; RMSEA .41). El MPFI español también demostró una invariancia factorial tanto débil (métrica) como fuerte (escalar) en comparación con el MPFI inglés proporcionado a una muestra de los Estados Unidos (N = 1630; 18 a 85 años, M = 50,1, SD = 18,7; 77,0 %). identificándose como mujeres; 86,6% blancos). Los resultados indicaron una consistencia interna aceptable en todos los factores (ω >.74). La adaptación al español del MPFI presenta 60 y 24 ítems similares a los propuestos por los autores originales y adecuadas propiedades psicométricas en la muestra de estudio. En cuanto a sus limitaciones, cabe señalar que los resultados solo reportan la estructura factorial -validez factorial- y la consistencia interna -confiabilidad- del MPFI, lo cual es solo una primera aproximación exploratoria en la adaptación de la escala al contexto local. Por esta razón, futuras investigaciones deben continuar explorando las propiedades psicométricas del MPFI en Argentina.