bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying the Determinants of Recycling Rates in the US: A Multi-Level Analysis
Authors: Kim Younsung , Oh Chanho B. , Oh Sunho C. , Sivanandan Tarun , Small John M.
Published: December 2024

As sustainability challenges become more urgent, concerns about resource depletion and the need for material recovery have brought recycling to the forefront of circular economy discussions. Compared to other developed nations, the US has underperformed in recycling, with its rate remaining relatively unchanged over the last two decades. However, limited academic research has explored the factors influencing recycling rates, and little is understood about how various elements, such as infrastructure and policy measures, affect state-level recycling. Utilizing publicly available data and multivariate regression analysis that considers demographic, infrastructural, ecological, policy, and political factors, this study investigated the state-level variations that contribute to the overall US recycling rate. The findings indicate that states with a high number of landfill sites tend to recycle less, whereas those with a high number of Superfundsites are more likely to recycle more. Furthermore, states that restrict local governments from banning plastic bags and straws are negatively associated with increased recycling. This research provides important insights into how states can improve their recycling rates, which, in turn, would enhance national recycling outcomes.
Sustainable Learning in Gifted Students: The Relationship Between Cultural Capital and Lifelong Learning
Authors: Eryılmaz Ramazan
Published: December 2024

This study explores the relationship between cultural capital and lifelong learning within the context of sustainable education for gifted students. The research measures the cultural capital, lifelong learning skills, and critical-reading abilities of gifted students and examines whether cultural capital influences their lifelong learning and critical-reading proficiency. Additionally, participants’ perspectives on lifelong learning and critical reading were collected. Employing a mixed-methods design, the study synthesizes both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative results demonstrate a significant positive correlation between critical reading and lifelong learning skills, with the impact of cultural capital on both variables being supported by qualitative findings. Students with higher levels of cultural capital clearly outperform others in these areas, as reflected in both the quantitative data and qualitative insights. Cultural capital is identified as a significant determinant of students’ academic and cognitive abilities. Furthermore, critical-reading skills were found to positively influence students’ self-confidence. Based on these findings, it is recommended that support for gifted students be tailored to address individual and social differences. The study underscores the need for educational programs to be restructured to prioritize the development of critical thinking and lifelong learning competencies.
Research on the Correlation Between Overburden Rock Fracture Development and High-Energy Events During Deep Mining in Extremely Thick and Weakly Consolidated Strata for Regional Coal Mining Safety
Authors: Sun Jingchao , Li Huaizhan , Guo Guangli , Hu Yonghua , Tang Chao , Wang Tiening , Zheng Hui , Zhang Liangui , Sun Hang
Published: December 2024

The environmental damage and mining accidents caused by water inrush accidents and rock burst are two major problems faced in the safe and sustainable deep mining of extremely thick weakly cemented overlying strata. Mastering the fracture development law of the overlying strata, the evolution characteristics of high-energy events, and their correlative relationships in the deep mining of extremely thick weakly cemented overlying strata is the key to solving the above two problems, which is directly related to the sustainable development of regional coal and the protection of underground water resources in mining areas. By integrating the geological characteristics of extremely thick and weakly cemented overburdens in the Shaanxi–Inner Mongolia mining region of China, this study adopts methods such as field measurements, numerical simulations, and theoretical analyses to investigate the energy evolution characteristics of regional mining-induced tremors, as well as the correlation and mutual influence mechanisms between overburden fracture development and high-energy events. The results indicate a positive correlation between high-energy events and the development height of overburden fractures, suggesting that the occurrence of high-energy events can increase the height of overburden fracture development. Furthermore, high-energy events occurring before and after the “parallel joining” of two working faces have a relatively minor impact on the development height of overburden fractures, with an increase in the fracture-to-mining ratio (FMR) ranging from 1.56 to 2.78. In contrast, high-energy events occurring during the “parallel joining” of two working faces significantly affect the development height of overburden fractures, resulting in an FMR increase of 10.33 to 13.44, approximately one-third of the FMR measured through boreholes. The research results can provide a scientific basis for the safe and sustainable coal mining and the protection of underground water resources in similar mining areas with extremely thick weakly cemented overlying strata.
Measuring the Ecoefficiency of Tourism in Typical Tourist Cities and Analyzing the Influencing Factors—Anhui Huangshan City as an Example
Authors: Li Jingjing , Wen Bin , Qiu Rumei
Published: December 2024

To protect the environment, promote sustainable tourism, and enhance the quality and efficiency of the tourism industry, accounting for and identifying the ecological efficiency of tourism is crucial. In this study, we constructed a scientific measurement system for assessing the ecological efficiency of tourism in Huangshan City from 2011 to 2022 using a Super-SBM (slack-based measure) model and a Tobit regression model. Our findings revealed the following: (1) The overall trend in the total efficiency in Huangshan City fluctuated considerably during the period under study but demonstrated an overall positive trend of development. Scale efficiency mostly showed consistent annual improvement, while pure technical efficiency remained relatively stable. (2) Economic, social, environmental, and human-resource- and transportation-related factors all exerted significant positive influences on the ecological efficiency of tourism in Huangshan City. Based on these results, in aiming to enhance the ecological efficiency of tourism in Huangshan City, comprehensively considering multiple factors, such as the economy, society, the environment, human resources, and transportation, is recommended. Attention should be paid to balancing industrial expansion with technological innovation while simultaneously investing in the development of education and human resources. Emphasis should also be placed on protecting and improving the environment alongside efforts to improve capabilities in technological innovation and the level of management. The research findings presented in this article offer a valuable theoretical underpinning, as well as practical guidance for Huangshan City and other representative tourist destinations on how they can enhance the efficiency of their tourism ecosystems, thereby facilitating high-quality and sustainable development within the tourism industry.
TOE Configuration Analysis of Smart City Construction in China Under the Concept of Sustainable Development
Authors: Liu Junjie , Liu Xiaomeng , Yang Jiaoping
Published: December 2024

The construction of smart cities is an effective path for sustainable urban development. Determining how to build smart cities and choose effective development models has attracted attention from all walks of life. Consequently, determining how to promote the development of smart cities and how to choose effective development models has also attracted attention. This paper takes 77 prefecture-level cities in China as case studies to explore the impact of technology, organization, and environment on the high-level development of smart cities. In this study, the fsQCA (fuzzy set-based qualitative comparative analysis) method was used to explore the configuration effects of three types of factors. The main findings are as follows: Firstly, no single factor among the three categories is a necessary condition for the high development level of smart cities, indicating that relying solely on technological conditions cannot build high-level smart cities. Secondly, the path of development of a smart city can be summarized into three modes: Both organizational and industrial environment type, both governance and cultural environment type, and balanced development type. Finally, among the three modes, the government’s digital governance capability and industrial environment play a crucial role in achieving a high level of development in smart cities. This article examines the development of smart cities from a systems perspective and provides useful, practical insights for the construction of smart cities.
Evaluating the Share of Atmospheric Deposition of Priority Pollutants Cadmium and Lead in Soil Pollution with the Use of Ombrotrophic Peat Bogs as Natural Archives
Authors: Miszczak Ewa , Stefaniak Sebastian , Steinnes Eiliv , Twardowska Irena
Published: December 2024

Sustainable soil resource management requires detailed knowledge of soil pollution sources and their share in total pollution level. Spatial pollution caused by the total cumulative atmospheric deposition remains largely unknown, as the biggest pollutant emissions occurred in XIX/XX centuries. The use of ombrotrophic peatlands that are specific isolated ecosystems fed only through atmospheric deposition may serve as its natural archives. Accumulation of Cd and Pb from atmospheric deposition in undisturbed soil layers in relation to their total deposited cumulative loads recorded in the ombrotrophic peat bog was exemplified in the Izera Mountains, an area historically heavily affected with the transboundary long-range transmission of pollutants from Germany, the Czech Republic, and Poland. Balance of deposited Cd and Pb loads in soil in relation to the total cumulative deposition determined from peat records showed 30% depletion of Cd load in the soil profile due to washout of mobile phases, while that of Pb practically did not decline. The deposited element accumulation and release/depletion in undisturbed soil profiles can thus be quantified in relation to the total cumulative load of atmospheric deposition. This shows a new prospective application of peat bog records as monitors of total cumulative loads of trace elements supplied to soils from atmospheric deposition.
Failure Mechanism and Risk Assessment of Multi-Level Cliff in Jiaohua Perilous Rock Mass
Authors: Zhao Xingxing , Dai Zhenwei , Huang Bolin , Zhang Anle , Qin Weibing , Cheng Shi , Zhang Nan , Xiong Qihui
Published: December 2024

Perilous rock mass disasters are typical forms of collapse disasters. Perilous rock masses are widely distributed in mountainous areas around the world and often pose a great threat to residents and line engineering. The correct evaluation of the stability and disaster-causing ability of perilous rock is important for the guarantee of sustainable development for human beings living in mountainous areas. The dynamic disaster effects of perilous rock collapse have always been a hot topic in the field of engineering geological disaster research. This study takes typical #WY8 and #WY47 perilous rock masses in a zone called the Jiaohua rock perilous rock zone in Chongqing, China, as a case study. The Jiaohua perilous rock mass is located in the Kaizhou District of the Three Gorges Reservoir area in China, which is mainly distributed in a ‘long strip’. The initial deformation and collapse of the perilous rock zone occurred in September 2004, and many local collapses have occurred since. In this study, the basic characteristics of the perilous rock belt of Jiaohua rock were first analyzed, and the failure mechanism of the perilous rock mass of Jiaohua rock was then summarized. Then, a numerical model of the perilous rock mass was established by DAN-W, and the disaster process of perilous rock collapse was analyzed. According to the characteristics of perilous rock and cliffs, considering the collapse partition, the collapse path of debris flow can be divided into three sections: the collapse section, slip section, and accumulation section. The calculation results show that the maximum velocity of the front edge of the #WY8 debris flow is 27.26 m/s, the maximum velocity of the trailing edge is 16.71 m/s, the maximum sliding distance is 437 m, and the impact force of the debris flow on the building is up to 52.29 kPa. The maximum velocity of the front edge of the #WY47 debris flow is 31.05 m/s, the maximum velocity of the trailing edge is 21.99 m/s, the maximum sliding distance is 194.31 m, and the impact force of the debris flow on the building is 241.15 kPa. Civil buildings within the scope of collapse are at risk of being completely destroyed. The research results of this study provide a certain theoretical basis for disaster prevention and mitigation work in the hidden danger area of rock avalanche disasters in the Three Gorges Reservoir area.
Identification of Soil Quality Factors and Indicators in Mediterranean Agro-Ecosystems
Authors: Evangelou Eleftherios , Giourga Christina
Published: December 2024

Soil quality offers a holistic approach for understanding the relationships between soil’s biological, chemical, and physical properties, which is crucial for sustainable land use and the management of non-renewable soil resources. This study evaluates the impact of land use on a set of 23 soil quality indicators (SQIs) across 5 land uses of the Mediterranean agro-ecosystems: forest, olive groves, wheat fields, a corn/wheat crop rotation system, and pasture. Seasonal soil sampling was carried out over two consecutive years in three conventionally managed fields representing each land use type. For each sampling, physicals SQIs (soil moisture, porosity-Vp-, bulck density-BD-, water holding capacity-WHC-, clay, silt, sand), chemical SQIs (organic carbon-Corg-, total Nitrogen-TN-, C/N, PH, electrical conductivity-EC-, ammonium-NH4-N-, nitrate-NO3-N- and available nitrogen-Nmin-), and biological SQIs (soil microbial biomass C-Cmic- and N-Nmic-, Cmic/Nmic, Cmic/Corg, Nmic/TN, active carbon—Cact-, Cact/Corg) were evaluated. Through multivariate analysis, five key soil quality factors—organic matter, microbial biomass, nutrients, C/N ratio, and compaction—were identified as indicators of soil quality changes due to land use, explaining 82.9% of the total variability in the data. Discriminant analysis identified organic matter and the C/N factors as particularly sensitive indicators of soil quality changes, reflecting the quantity and quality of soil organic matter, incorporating 87.8% of the SQIs information resulting from the 23 indicators. ΤΝ, accounting for 84% of the information on the organic matter factor, emerges as a key indicator for predicting significant changes in soil quality due to land use or management practices. The TN and C/N proposed indicators offer a simplified yet effective means of assessing soil resource sustainability in the Mediterranean agroecosystems, providing practical tools for monitoring and managing soil quality.
Residual Effects of Vinasse and Poultry Manure Application on Soil Quality and Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) Yield Grown in Calcareous Soil
Authors: Mahmoud Esawy , Alotaibi Modhi O. , Alotibi Mashael M. , El-Sharkawy Mahmoud , Ghoneim Adel M. , Gebreel Mostafa , Seleem Mostafa , Abo-Ogiala Atef , Khalafallah Naglaa
Published: December 2024

Reuse poultry manure (PM) and vinasse (V) is a promising technology for the sustainability of various agricultural systems without environmental impact, but its effects on soil fertility index (SFI), hydraulic conductivity (Ks), porosity (TP), available water (AW), and spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) growth in calcareous soils are poorly understood. Therefore, we studied the residual effect of combining PM either individually or mixed with V at different rates in pots. This study found that adding PM alone or in conjunction with V at various application rates resulted in an important improvement in SFI, Ks, TP, AW, and spinach yield. Vinasse contributed to an increase in more than 20% of the organic matter when adding it as 4.2 g V and 6.3 g PM kg−1 soil, and gave the best results in the organic matter fresh weight of spinach plant, SFI, and AW by 43.8%, 26.33%, 41.24%, and 63.63% compared to control. Spinach leaf uptake of NPK rose considerably when the soil was treated with PM alone or in combination with V. The SFI, cation exchange capacity (CEC), available N (AN), available P (AP), Ks, and AW were shown to be positively associated with spinach fresh weight utilizing principal component analysis, but soil electrical conductivity (EC), exchange sodium percentage (ESP), pH, and bulk density (BD) were found to be negatively correlated. Additionally, it was estimated by the K-Nearest Neighbors technique that under certain soil conditions, including AP 14.89 mg kg−1, AN 38.25 mg kg−1, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) 2.47 mg kg−1, CEC 11.66 cmol kg−1, exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) 11.65%, and SFI 26.55%, spinach fresh weight increases to 13.8 t ha−1. These findings show how adding PM and V can improve soil quality and enhance nutrient uptake, all of which can contribute to a higher productivity of spinach and sustainability in calcareous soils.
Different Species and Cultivars of Broad Beans, Lupins, and Clovers Demonstrated Varying Environmental Adaptability and Nitrogen Fixation Potential When Cultivated as Green Manures in Northeastern Portugal
Authors: Aguiar Peltier , Arrobas Margarida , Nharreluga Ezar Alfredo , Rodrigues Manuel Ângelo
Published: December 2024

The success of growing legumes as green manure depends on their spatial and temporal integration within agroecosystems, which minimizes competition with cash crops, and on their nitrogen (N) fixation potential. This study evaluated seven legume species for biomass production, N fixation, and suitability for use in cropping systems in northern Portugal. Oats (Avena sativa L.) were grown to estimate the N fixation using the difference method, as a non-legume reference crop is required for this purpose, and oats are widely grown in the region. The study was conducted over four cropping cycles (2021–2024) in two climate zones across four land plots. The results indicated that the biomass production and N fixation varied by the species/cultivar and cropping cycle, which was significantly influenced by spring precipitation. Broad beans (Vicia faba L.) failed to develop in one cycle on highly acidic soil (pH 4.9), showing negative N fixation values when calculated by the difference method. Conversely, the lupins maintained a relatively high level of N fixation across all the conditions, demonstrating strong environmental adaptability. Thus, the N fixation values across the four cycles ranged from −5.4 to 419.4 kg ha−1 for broad bean (cv. Favel), while yellow lupin (Lupinus luteus L.) exhibited average values between 204.0 and 274.0 kg ha−1. The percentage of N derived from the atmosphere (%Ndfa) ranged from −13.3 to 91.6, −39.4 to 85.8, 83.8 to 94.7, 74.9 to 94.3, 72.8 to 92.2, 23.1 to 75.8, and 11.7 to 21.7 for these species/cultivars. Due to their environmental adaptability, biomass production, and N fixation capacity, these legumes could be used as green manure in inter-rows of woody crops or in summer annual crops like tomatoes and maize, grown in winter as an alternative to fallow land. The lupins showed strong promise due to their environmental resilience.
Germination Strategies and Seed Quality of Colobanthus quitensis: Implications for Sustainable Antarctic Ecosystems and Ex Situ Plant Conservation
Authors: Ontivero Yadiana , Cuba-Díaz Marely , Fuentes-Lillo Eduardo , Convey Peter
Published: December 2024

The conservation of the Antarctic ecosystem is linked to scientific and tourism activities. The Colección Activa de Plantas Vasculares Antárticas at the Universidad de Concepción aims to help conserve the region’s vascular flora to support scientific research while minimizing anthropogenic pressure on natural ecosystems. Colobanthus quitensis is the only native dicotyledonous plant native to Antarctica and, as an extremophilic plant, is capable of withstanding extreme abiotic conditions. This species has potentially important use as a biological model to study the physiological deterioration of dormant seeds and other traits, some of which may contribute to vegetation development in Antarctica. Although studies have addressed the reproduction and germination of C. quitensis, there is no recent synthesis of information regarding its reproductive biology and seed traits that could support its conservation. This work synthesizes and critically analyzes the current knowledge of C. quitensis reproduction in natural and controlled environments, identifying factors that contribute to the decline in seed quality. We propose that growth conditions, seed morphology, and interactions with endophytic fungi influence germination and seedling establishment. We also highlight critical knowledge gaps that must be addressed to better understand the species’ phenology, the impact of biotic and abiotic factors on its development, strategies for seed conservation, and biotechnological applications.
Data-Driven Analysis of Supply Chain Integration’s Impact on Procurement Performance in International EPC Projects
Authors: Huang Jiaxin , Li Shui Ming
Published: December 2024

Integrated supply chain management is essential for enhancing procurement efficiency and project outcomes in international engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) projects. Despite its acknowledged importance, there is a paucity of understanding regarding the precise effects of supply chain integration on procurement processes in this context. This research analyzes 45 projects overseen by prominent Chinese international contractors to bridge this gap. The research employs Pearson correlation analysis to identify robust correlations among critical components of supply chain integration, procurement management, and procurement performance. Essential elements, including operational performance, procurement contract management, and stakeholder engagement, are identified as critical determinants of project success. The study seeks to examine how international EPC contractors incorporate the complete procurement management process via supply chain integration. Contractors can improve operational efficiency and procurement management by forming partnerships with stakeholders to acquire and integrate resources, hence enhancing project outcomes. This ongoing enhancement process improves procurement efficiency and bolsters the competitiveness of Chinese contractors in the global EPC market. The study underscores the efficiency and sustainability of procurement processes, demonstrating how optimized supply chain integration advances broader sustainability objectives by minimizing waste, enhancing resource utilization, and promoting environmentally and socially responsible procurement practices in international projects. The research offers significant empirical data and insights for academic inquiries and actual company implementations.
Gamification in Flipped Classrooms for Sustainable Digital Education: The Influence of Competitive and Cooperative Gamification on Learning Outcomes
Authors: Alshiha Mada Bandar , Al-Abdullatif Ahlam Mohammed
Published: December 2024

This study examines the effects of competitive versus cooperative gamification mechanics on the learning achievement of female first-year middle school students in flipped classrooms, highlighting its implications for designing sustainable learning environments. Employing a quasi-experimental design, 60 students were randomly assigned to two experimental groups, each engaged in a flipped classroom environment with either competitive or cooperative gamified elements. While both groups showed significant improvement in post-test scores, no significant differences were observed in cognitive achievement or skills acquisition between the groups. These findings emphasize that competitive and cooperative gamification mechanics can be equally effective in enhancing learning, suggesting that the choice of mechanic does not critically impact learning outcomes. The study provides practical guidance for educators and instructional designers in developing balanced gamified learning environments that optimize competitive and cooperative strategies, thus fostering a more versatile and adaptable approach to student motivation and engagement in sustainable technology-enhanced education.
The Exact Traveling Wave Solutions of a KPP Equation
Authors: Kogan Eugene
Published: December 2024

We obtain the exact analytical traveling wave solutions of the Kolmogorov–Petrovskii–Piskunov equation, with the reaction term belonging to the class of functions, which includes that of the (generalized) Fisher equation, for the particular values of the wave’s speed. Additionally we obtain the exact analytical traveling wave solutions of the generalized Burgers–Huxley equation.
A Comparative Analysis of Advanced Routing and Cluster Head Selection Algorithm Using Lagrange Interpolation
Authors: Mabunga Zoren P. , Dela Cruz Jennifer C. , Maaliw Renato R.
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a unified performance metric for evaluating the chronological wild geese optimization (CWGO) algorithm in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). The metric combines key performance factors—energy consumption, delay, distance, and trust—into a single measure using Lagrange interpolation, providing a more comprehensive assessment of WSN algorithms. We evaluate CWGO against E-CERP, EECHIGWO, DUCISCA, and DE-SEP across static and dynamic sensor node configurations in various wireless technologies, including LoRa, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Bluetooth low energy (BLE). The results show that CWGO consistently outperforms the other algorithms, especially in larger node configurations, demonstrating its scalability and robustness in static and dynamic environments. Moreover, the unified metric reveals significant performance gaps with EECHIGWO, which underperforms all wireless technologies. DUCISCA and DE-SEP show moderate and fluctuating results, underscoring their limitations in larger networks. While E-CERP performs competitively, it generally lags behind CWGO. The unified metric offers a holistic view of algorithm performance, conveying clearer comparisons across multiple factors. This study emphasized the importance of a unified evaluation approach for WSN algorithms and positions CWGO as a superior solution for efficient cluster head selection and routing optimization in diverse WSN scenarios. While CWGO demonstrates superior performance in simulation, future research should validate these findings in real-world deployments, accounting for hardware limitations and in a highly dynamic environment. Further optimization of the unified metrics’ computational efficiency could enhance its real-time applicability in larger, energy-resource-constrained WSNs.
From Theory to Practice: Implementing Meta-Learning in 6G Wireless Infrastructure
Authors: Zeshan Arooba , Ouameur Messaoud Ahmed , Alam Muhammad Zeshan , Le Tuan-Anh D.
Published: December 2024

The vision of the sixth generation of communication systems, commonly known as 6G, entails a connected world that provides ubiquitous connectivity and fosters the digital transformation of society. As the number of devices, services, and users continues to grow, intelligent solutions are expected to facilitate this transformation. This paper considers meta-learning as a pivotal paradigm for 6G systems, detailing its principles, algorithms, and theoretical underpinnings. The methodology involves integrating meta-learning with three potential 6G technologies: RF-based communication systems, optical communication systems, and molecular communication systems. The findings reveal the distinct characteristics of these technologies and demonstrate the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating meta-learning algorithms. Practical implications highlight how meta-learning can enhance the efficiency and adaptability of 6G systems, addressing the growing demand for intelligent and seamless communication networks.
Snakebites in Cameroon by Species Whose Effects Are Poorly Described
Authors: Chippaux Jean-Philippe , Madec Yoann , Amta Pierre , Ntone Rodrigue , Noël Gaëlle , Clauteaux Pedro , Boum Yap , Nkwescheu Armand S. , Taieb Fabien
Published: December 2024

Snakes responsible for bites are rarely identified, resulting in a loss of information about snakebites from venomous species whose venom effects are poorly understood. A prospective clinical study including patients bitten by a snake was conducted in Cameroon between 2019 and 2021 to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a marketed polyvalent antivenom. Clinical presentation during the first 3 days of hospitalization was recorded following a standardized protocol. This ancillary study aimed to assess the frequency of bites by the different species encountered in Cameroon and to describe the symptoms of bites by formally identified species. Of the 447 patients included in the study, 159 (35.6%) brought the snake that caused the bite that was identified by a specialist. Out of these, 8 specimens could not be identified due to poor condition, 19 were non-venomous species, and 95 belonged to Echis romani—formerly E. ocellatus—species. The remaining 37 specimens included 2 Atheris squamigera, 12 Atractaspis spp., 2 Bitis arietans, 11 Causus maculatus, 1 Dendroaspis jamesoni, 1 Naja haje, 1 N. katiensis, 5 N. melanoleuca complex, and 2 N. nigricollis. Symptoms, severity of envenomation, and post-treatment course are described. Symptoms and severity of bites are consistent with cases described in the literature, but some specific features are highlighted.
Low Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Farmed and Free-Ranging White-Tailed Deer in Florida
Authors: Grace Savannah G. , Wilson Kristen N. , Dorleans Rayann , White Zoe S. , Pu Ruiyu , Gaudreault Natasha N. , Cool Konner , Campos Krauer Juan M. , Franklin Laura E. , Clemons Bambi C. , Subramaniam Kuttichantran , Richt Juergen A. , Lednicky John A. , Long Maureen T. , Wisely Samantha M.
Published: December 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been detected in multiple animal species, including white-tailed deer (WTD), raising concerns about zoonotic transmission, particularly in environments with frequent human interactions. To understand how human exposure influences SARS-CoV-2 infection in WTD, we compared infection and exposure prevalence between farmed and free-ranging deer populations in Florida. We also examined the timing and viral variants in WTD relative to those in Florida’s human population. Between 2020 and 2022, we collected respiratory swabs (N = 366), lung tissue (N = 245), retropharyngeal lymph nodes (N = 491), and serum specimens (N = 381) from 410 farmed and 524 free-ranging WTD. Specimens were analyzed using RT-qPCR for infection and serological assays for exposure. SARS-CoV-2 infection was detected in less than 1% of both northern Florida farmed (0.85%) and free-ranging (0.76%) WTD. No farmed deer possessed virus-neutralizing antibodies, while one free-ranging WTD tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (3.45%). Viral sequences in infected WTD matched peaks in human cases and circulating variants, indicating human-to-deer spillover but at a lower frequency than reported elsewhere. Our findings suggest a reduced risk of SARS-CoV-2 spillover to WTD in northern Florida compared to other regions, highlighting the need for further research on transmission dynamics across North America.
Correction: Yang et al. SOX2 Represses Hepatitis B Virus Replication by Binding to the Viral EnhII/Cp and Inhibiting the Promoter Activation. Viruses 2020, 12, 273
Authors: Yang Hua , Mo Jiayin , Xiang Qi , Zhao Peiyi , Song Yunting , Yang Ge , Wu Kailang , Liu Yingle , Liu Weiyong , Wu Jianguo
Published: December 2024

In the original publication [...]
Thymidine Analogue Mutations with M184V Significantly Decrease Phenotypic Susceptibility of HIV-1 Subtype C Reverse Transcriptase to Islatravir
Authors: Byun Hyeonah , Papathanasopoulos Maria Antonia , Steegen Kim , Basson Adriaan Erasmus
Published: December 2024

Islatravir (ISL) is the first-in-class nucleoside reverse transcriptase translocation inhibitor (NRTtI) with novel modes of action. Data on ISL resistance are currently limited, particularly to HIV-1 non-B subtypes. This study aimed to assess prevalent nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI)-resistant mutations in HIV-1 subtype C for their phenotypic resistance to ISL. Prevalent single and combinations of NRTI-resistant mutations were selected from a routine HIV-1 genotypic drug resistance testing database and introduced into HIV-1 subtype C-like pseudoviruses, which were then tested for ISL susceptibility. Single NRTI-resistant mutations were susceptible or showed only a low level of resistance to ISL. This included thymidine analogue mutations (TAMs, i.e., M41L, D67N, K70R, T215FY, and K219EQ) and non-TAMs (i.e., A62V, K65R, K70ET, L74IV, A114S, Y115F, and M184V). Combinations of M184V with one or more additional NRTI-resistant mutations generally displayed reduced ISL susceptibilities. This was more prominent for combinations that included M184V+TAMs, and particularly M184V+TAM-2 mutations. Combinations that included M184V+K65R did not impact significantly on ISL susceptibility. Our study suggests that ISL would be effective in treating people living with HIV (PLWH) failing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/lamivudine (3TC) or TDF/emtricitabine (FTC)-containing regimens, but would be less effective in PLH failing zidovudine (AZT) with 3TC or FTC-containing regimens.
Effect of School HPV Vaccination Requirements on Pediatricians’ Recommendations
Authors: McKenzie Ashley Hedrick , Savas Lara S. , Shegog Ross , Mantey Dale S. , Frost Erica L. , Yeh Paul Gerardo , Healy C. Mary , Spinner Stanley , Shay L. Aubree , Preston Sharice M. , Vernon Sally W.
Published: December 2024

Background/objectives: Pediatrician recommendations are highly influential in parents’ decisions to vaccinate their children against HPV. Unqualified, presumptive, and bundled recommendations (UPBRs) are associated with increased HPV vaccine uptake and are considered best practice. This study analyzes pediatricians’ self-reported data to assess changes in UPBR use and the psychosocial determinants of UPBR use as a result of the implementation of a multi-level intervention, the Adolescent Vaccination Program (AVP). Methods: We surveyed pediatricians across 51 clinics in the Houston area. Baseline surveys (n = 137) were distributed in 2015, and follow-ups (n = 120) in 2019. Results: Pediatrician UPBR use significantly increased as a result of AVP implementation. Change in the provider belief that it is necessary to tell parents that HPV vaccination is not required for public school attendance significantly predicted UPBR use at follow up. This belief was also a significant mediator of increased use of UPBRs at follow-up. Conclusions: AVP was successful in increasing pediatricians’ use of UPBRs. Change in UPBR use is related to one critical psychosocial determinant: beliefs about communication regarding the non-mandatory nature of HPV vaccination for school enrollment. HPV vaccine promotion efforts should devote focus to changing pediatricians’ beliefs about the necessity of disclosing the non-mandatory nature of HPV vaccination for school attendance.
The Glycopeptide PV-PS A1 Immunogen Elicits Both CD4+ and CD8+ Responses
Authors: Nishat Sharmeen , Hossain Md Kamal , Valentin Geraud , Hossain Farzana , Gamage Shanika , Wall Katherine A. , Andreana Peter R.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The MHCII-dependent, CD4+ T-cell zwitterionic polysaccharide PS A1 has been investigated as a promising carrier for vaccine development because it can induce an MHCII-dependent CD4+ response towards a variety of tumor-associated carbohydrate antigens (TACAs). However, PS A1 cannot elicit cytotoxic T lymphocytes through MHCI, which may or may not hamper its potential clinical use in cancer, infectious and viral vaccine development. This paper addresses PS A1 MHCI independence through the introduction of an MHCI epitope, the poliovirus (PV) peptide, to establish an MHCI- and MHCII-dependent vaccine. Methods: We synthesized a glycopeptide construct targeting the Thomsen-nouveau TACA (Tn-PV-PS A1) and a control Tn-PV peptide. C57BL/6 mice were immunized with both constructs, and the resulting T-cells were extracted from spleens. Results: Through cell proliferation assays, we show that Tn-PV-PS A1 elicits a robust CD4+ and CD8+ immune response. The resulting cytotoxic T lymphocytes are specific towards Tn-PV and trigger cell lysis of Tn-expressing EL4 cells. Conclusions: This study confirms PV-PS A1 as a robust MHCI- and MHCII-dependent carrier. This is the first report of MHCI dependence in a zwitterionic polysaccharide.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of the Vaccine Production Process in Removing Residual Host Cell DNA from the Vero Cell Rabies Vaccine
Authors: Li Jia , Pan Ruowen , Yue Fengyi , Gao Tie , Wu Xiaohong , Shi Leitai , Wang Yunpeng , Zhao Danhua , Lan Zhaohui , Chen Hongxu , Ye Qiang , Cao Shouchun
Published: December 2024

Background: The Vero cell rabies vaccine is currently the most widely used human rabies vaccine. However, owing to the presence of residual host cell DNA (HCD) in the final product and the potential tumorigenicity of the DNA of high-passage Vero cells, the WHO not only sets a limit on the number of times cells used in production can be passaged, but also imposes strict requirements on the amount of residual HCD in the final vaccine product. Objectives: To systematically reduce the HCD level in the final vaccine product, multiple purification steps are included in the vaccine production process. This study investigated the effectiveness of key production steps in antigen recovery and DNA removal. Methods: The residual HCD fragment content and size distribution were detected using fluorescence quantitative PCR (qPCR) and capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE), and the rabies virus glycoprotein antigen content was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The antigen recovery rate and HCD removal rate in each key process were calculated to evaluate the scientific basis and effectiveness of each production step. Additionally, the stability of the process was studied using multiple commercial batches of the product. Results: The results revealed that the total antigen recovery rate in the production process described in this report was no less than 8.5%, and the effective removal rate of residual HCD was not lower than 99.99%. Moreover, the amount of residual HCD in the final product was far below the quality standard of 2 ng/dose, and most of the residual HCD fragments were smaller than 200 bp. The results of the process stability studies on multiple commercial batches showed that the bulk human rabies vaccine produced by this process had excellent safety and efficacy and that the production process was stable and thus suitable for large-scale batch production. Conclusions: The production process described in this study achieved effective recovery of viral antigens and efficient removal of residual HCD, and the process was stable and controllable, enabling the continuous and stable production of vaccine products that meet WHO recommendations and the relevant requirements of the current edition of the Chinese Pharmacopeia. In addition, this study provides theoretical guidance for optimizing the vaccine production process.
Effects of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester on Embryonic Development Through Regulation of Mitochondria and Endoplasmic Reticulum
Authors: Huang Chu-Man , Huang Hui-Mei , Li Ying-Hua , Liang Xing-Wei , Kim Nam-Hyung , Xu Yong-Nan
Published: December 2024

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is one of the main active components of the natural medicine propolis, which has antioxidant, anti-tumor, and immunomodulatory activities. This study aimed to analyze the effects and underlying mechanisms of CAPE added to the medium of in vitro cultures on the developmental competence, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum of porcine embryos. The results demonstrated that 1 nM of CAPE significantly improved the quality of porcine embryos, increased the rate of blastocyst formation, and enhanced the proliferation ability. It also enhanced mitochondrial function by increasing the level of mitochondrial membrane potential and expression of the mitochondrial biogenesis-related protein PPARgamma coactivator 1 alpha and beta (PGC1 alpha and beta), regulating mitochondrial biogenesis, and increasing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content. In addition, CAPE alleviated oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in embryos by decreasing ROS accumulation and increasing glutathione content, as well as elevating Nrf2 and reducing GRP78 (ER stress marker) expression levels. Moreover, CAPE reduced the levels of apoptosis and autophagy in the cultivated embryos. These results indicate that CAPE improves the quality and enhances the mitochondrial function of in vitro-produced porcine embryos by alleviating oxidative and ER stress.
A Temporal Convolutional Neural Network Fusion Attention Mechanism Runoff Prediction Model Based on Dynamic Decomposition Reconstruction Integration Processing
Authors: Qin Zhou , Zhang Yongchuan , Qin Hui , Mo Li , Ren Pingan , Zhu Sipeng
Published: December 2024

Accurate and reliable runoff forecasting is of great significance for hydropower station operation and watershed water resource allocation. However, various complex factors, such as climate conditions and human activities, constantly affect the formation of runoff. Runoff data under changing environments exhibit highly nonlinear, time-varying, and stochastic characteristics, which undoubtedly pose great challenges to runoff prediction. Under this background, this study ingeniously merges reconstruction integration technology and dynamic decomposition technology to propose a Temporal Convolutional Network Fusion Attention Mechanism Runoff Prediction method based on dynamic decomposition reconstruction integration processing. This method uses the Temporal Convolutional Network to extract the cross-temporal nonlinear characteristics of longer runoff data, and introduces attention mechanisms to capture the importance distribution and duration relationship of historical temporal features in runoff prediction. It integrates a decomposition reconstruction process based on dynamic classification and filtering, fully utilizing decomposition techniques, reconstruction techniques, complexity analysis, dynamic decomposition techniques, and neural networks optimized by automatic hyperparameter optimization algorithms, effectively improving the model’s interpretability and precision of prediction accuracy. This study used historical monthly runoff datasets from the Pingshan Hydrological Station and Yichang Hydrological Station for validation, and selected eight models including the LSTM model, CEEMDAN-TCN-Attention model, and CEEMDAN-VMD-LSTM-Attention (DDRI) for comparative prediction experiments. The MAE, RMSE, MAPE, and NSE indicators of the proposed model showed the best performances, with test set values of 1007.93, 985.87, 16.47, and 0.922 for the Pingshan Hydrological Station and 1086.81, 1211.18, 17.20, and 0.919 for the Yichang Hydrological Station, respectively. The experimental results indicate that the fusion model generated through training has strong learning ability for runoff temporal features and the proposed model has obvious advantages in overall predictive performance, stability, correlation, comprehensive accuracy, and statistical testing.
A Hybrid Approach to Mountain Torrent-Induced Debris Flow Prediction Combining Experiments and Gradient Boosting Regression
Authors: Li Hanze , Zhang Xinhai , Fan Yazhou , Peng Shijie , Zhang Lu , Xiang Dabo , Liao Jingjing , Zhang Jinxin , Meng Zhenzhu
Published: December 2024

Debris flows are highly unpredictable and destructive natural hazards that present significant risks to both human life and infrastructure. Despite advances in machine learning techniques, current predictive models often fall short due to the insufficient and low-quality historical data available for training. In this study, we introduce a hybrid approach that combines physical model experiments with a gradient boosting regression model to enhance the accuracy and reliability of debris flow predictions. By integrating experimental data that closely simulate real-world flow conditions, the gradient boosting regression model is trained on a more robust foundation, enabling it to capture the complex dynamics of debris flows under various conditions. Selecting slide mass, slope length, yield stress, and slope angle as explanatory variables, we focus on quantify two critical debris flow parameters—frontal thickness and velocity—at indicated locations within the flow. The model demonstrates strong predictive performance in forecasting these key parameters, achieving coefficients of determination of 0.938 for slide thickness and 0.934 for slide velocity. This hybrid approach not only simplifies the prediction process but also significantly improves its precision, offering a valuable tool for real-time risk assessment and mitigation strategies in debris flow-prone regions.
Research on Vehicle Path Planning Method with Time Windows in Uncertain Environments
Authors: Cong Ying , Zhu Kai
Published: December 2024

With the growing complexity of logistics and the demand for sustainability, the vehicle routing problem (VRP) has become a key research area. Classical VRPs now incorporate practical challenges such as time window constraints and carbon emissions. In uncertain environments, where many factors are stochastic or fuzzy, optimization models based on uncertainty theory have gained increasing attention. A single-objective optimization model is proposed in this paper to minimize the total cost of VRP in uncertain environments, including fixed costs, transportation costs, and carbon emission costs. Practical constraints like time windows and load capacity are incorporated, and uncertain variables, such as carbon emission factors, are modeled using normal distributions. Two uncertainty models, based on the expected value and chance-constrained criteria, are developed, and their deterministic forms are derived using the inverse distribution method. To solve the problem effectively, a hybrid ant colony–zebra optimization algorithm is proposed, integrating ant colony optimization, zebra optimization, and the 3-opt algorithm to enhance global search and local optimization. Numerical experiments demonstrate the superior performance of the hybrid algorithm, achieving lower total costs compared to standalone ant colony, zebra optimization, genetic algorithm, and particle swarm optimization algorithms. The results highlight its robustness and efficiency in addressing complex constraints.