bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards a Taxonomy of E-Waste Urban Mining Technology Design and Adoption: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Udage Kankanamge Amila Kasun Sampath , Erdiaw-Kwasie Michael Odei , Abunyewah Matthew
Published: July 2024

The role of technology in e-waste management is receiving increasing attention as a dominant strategy to achieve long-term sustainability and well-being goals. However, a lack of comprehensive understanding of the contemporary factors influencing e-waste urban mining technology design and adoption remains. This is the first study to propose a taxonomy to clarify the contemporary factors influencing e-waste urban mining technology design and adoption. The taxonomy comprises four thematic clusters, notably the device cluster, the process cluster, the organizational cluster, and the macro cluster. This study further shares insights on how the taxonomy of e-waste urban mining technology design and adoption can be applied to assess each stage of the technology transition process. Drawing from this study synthesis, this study taxonomy model characterizes the embedded internal and external various states of technology design and adoption and derives informed decisions from a sustainable technology perspective. This study’s taxonomy framework supports the outlook measurement analysis of e-waste urban mining technology factors from both developing and developed countries’ perspectives, which can contribute to broadening the scope and level of the applicability of technologies.
From Equality to Excellence: Exploring the Relationship between Gender Equality HR Policies and R&D Intensity
Authors: Lee Sung-Tae , Jung Sun-Moon
Published: July 2024

In an era where innovation is the key to staying competitive, understanding the role of gender diversity in fostering corporate creativity has never been more crucial. This study examined the relationship between gender equality human resource (HR) policies and a firm’s innovation focus, measured by research and development (R&D) intensity and intangible asset intensity. Utilizing a comprehensive survey dataset focused on female workers in Korean listed firms for the period 2020–2022, we found no clear evidence of a positive association between gender equality HR policies such as equal employment opportunities and gender pay equity and both R&D intensity and intangible asset intensity. Furthermore, our analysis revealed that the positive influence of these policies on R&D (intangible) intensity becomes more apparent when the proportion of female employees among the total R&D HR increases. These findings emphasize the critical role that gender-inclusive HR policies play in fostering a culture of innovation within organizations and highlight the importance of considering workforce composition while shaping innovation outcomes. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on the intersection of gender equality, HR practices, and corporate innovation strategies.
Qualitative Production of Mixture Silage within a Sustainable Concept
Authors: Batista Karina , Campos F.P.
Published: July 2024

Climate change and seasonality in forage production have caused alterations in animal feed. Thus, this study evaluated the composition of silages from soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) mixed with tropical grasses. The experimental design was randomized blocks with four replications. Treatments were silage from soybeans, silage from soybeans with Aruana Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Aruana), and silage from soybeans with Congo grass (Urochloa ruziziensis cv. Comum). Silos were stored for 60 days in the laboratory at room temperature. The silage from soybeans with Aruana Guinea grass showed the highest contents of dry matter, crude fiber, neutral detergent fiber, insoluble nitrogen in neutral detergent fiber, and insoluble nitrogen in acid detergent fiber but the lowest levels of crude protein and ether extract. The highest content of mineral material and hemicellulose was observed in the silage from soybeans with Congo grass. The silages from soybeans and soybeans with Congo grass showed no significant differences for acid detergent fiber and lignin. In conclusion, the use of tropical grasses as a component to improve the quality of silage from soybeans is an alternative for forage conservation in ruminant production systems, especially at the dry season.
An Optimal Scheduling Method for Distribution Network Clusters Considering Source–Load–Storage Synergy
Authors: Qiu Shu , Deng Yujia , Ding Miao , Han Wenzhen
Published: July 2024

To contribute to the realization of the goal of carbon peak and carbon neutrality, the non-polluting and sustainable nature of new energy sources such as wind, photovoltaic power, and energy storage has gained widespread attention, and new-energy distributed power generation technology is being applied on a large scale. Due to the high penetration, decentralization, and source–load uncertainty in new-energy distributed power generation, the traditional centralized regulation and control method struggles to meet the demand for scheduling flexibility in a distribution network. Hence, a cluster-optimization scheduling method for distribution networks considering source–load–storage synergy is proposed in this paper. Firstly, by using the comprehensive index of cluster-active power balance and electrical-distance modularity as the objective function, a simulated annealing algorithm is proposed to improve the genetic algorithm for solving a distribution network cluster division model. Then, based on the results of the distributed cluster segmentation, an optimal scheduling model is established, with the objective of minimizing the comprehensive operating costs by considering clusters as units. Inter-cluster power interactions are then used to reduce cluster operating costs and to meet intra-cluster power balance requirements by automatically setting time-sharing tariffs between the clusters. Finally, an IEEE33 node system is taken as an example for verification. The results show that the proposed distribution network cluster division method has better electrical coupling and active power balance and that the optimal scheduling method of clusters can effectively reduce the system operation costs. Hence, the method studied in this paper can increase the flexibility of regional distribution grid scheduling and the reliability of the power supply, reduce regional energy mobility to reduce energy consumption, improve the utilization efficiency of energy, and promote the sustainable development of new energy access to the distribution network.
Corporate Governance Implications for Sustainable Performance: Focus on Leading Energy Producers in Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Sweden
Authors: Tamošiūnas Andrius
Published: July 2024

This paper aims to evaluate corporate governance in relation to enterprise performance indicators in order to enhance it. The intention is not only to align with the interests of shareholders, but also to foster competitive, sustainable, and inclusive growth. For this purpose, the leading energy producer in each of the five countries—Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Sweden—was investigated to evaluate their corporate governance performance. An analysis was conducted, employing regression analysis, Pearson correlation, and descriptive statistics. The influence of corporate governance on the performance of chosen enterprises was examined, utilising specifically developed models. The findings reveal that the corporate governance variables are diverse, and financial metrics exhibit significant variability, reflecting the complexity of the energy industry. The research results confirm that larger and more varied boards positively impact the performance of state-owned power suppliers and increase their net income. The presence of independent members was also found to contribute to the net income growth of state-owned power suppliers. However, the study indicated that the frequency of audit meetings does not necessarily increase earnings. Still, larger audit committees can contribute to CG decision-making processes concerning debt management. The results also implied the need to consider the qualifications of the board members and its composition for proper power interruption management to minimise the frequency and duration of power outages. Therefore, it must be of pivotal focus for respective corporate governance duties. In this respect, the need for more specific and regular assessments was also found to be justified regarding industry-specific challenges related to power system disruptions. Customer-centric strategies should deserve relevant attention as well. The enforcement of the management audit function could be a solution. Consequently, assessing the governance structures and decision-making processes must be systematic for energy producers due to the business dynamics leading to the revaluation of the evolving challenges and possible solutions aimed at the competitive and sustainable development of the energy sector.
Digital Inclusive Finance, Digital Technology Innovation, and Carbon Emission Intensity
Authors: He Qi , Jiang Hongli
Published: July 2024

Decreasing carbon emission intensity (CEI) has emerged as a crucial strategy for nations to attain low-carbon economic growth. Nevertheless, a definitive conclusion about the correlation between financial development and CEI has not been reached. This research examines the influence of digital inclusive finance (DIF), a novel financial sector, on CEI, and the role of digital technology innovation (DTI) in this impact. Firstly, this study analyzes the influence of DIF on CEI from the perspectives of technology effect and scale effect and proposes the hypothesis that the impact of DIF on CEI is U-shaped. Then, using a double fixed-effect model and a sample of 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2021, this study verifies the accuracy of the hypothesis. Subsequently, this study examines the mechanism by which DIF impacts CEI, and the results indicate that DIF can exert a U-shaped influence on CEI via enhancing DTI. Then, this study further investigates the impact of DIF on CEI from three angles: geographical location, human capital level, and green finance. It also explores the geographical spillover effect and spatial heterogeneity by employing the Durbin model. Lastly, drawing from the aforementioned analysis, this report proposes some recommendations.
Mechanical Behaviour of Soil Treated with Chitosan and Calcium Metasilicate Considering the Fungal Growth
Authors: Sujatha Evangelin Ramani , Balasubramanian Nishanth , Gowrisankar Easwaramoorthy , Muthukrishnan Sathiyadurai , Vishweshwaran Muralidaran
Published: July 2024

Biopolymers have been widely experimented with as organic stabilizers in the last decade for improving soil properties. However, the high nutritional value of some biopolymers like chitin, carrageenan, casein, and chitosan can also promote microbial growth which can affect the improvement in the strength of biopolymer-stabilized soil. This study investigates the mechanical behaviour of clay treated with chitosan at dosages of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0% at various curing periods of 7 d, 28 d, 56 d, and 90 d and also observes the fungal growth, the conditions favourable to fungal growth, and the effect of an inorganic secondary additive on the mechanical behaviour of treated soil. The study shows that fungal growth is higher with the time and dosage of chitosan. The strength of chitosan-treated samples increased with both dosage and age despite the fungal growth observed on the treated soil, as did the fungal growth. On treating the soil with 2% chitosan, the percentage increase in strength was nearly 14.39%, and on the 56th day, it was phenomenally increased to 1534.39%. In an attempt to control the fungal growth, a secondary additive, calcium metasilicate (calsil), was added to various dosages of chitosan-treated soil (CTS). The secondary additive did not completely stop the fungal growth but certainly controlled fungal growth. Chitosan and calsil are hydrophilic, increasing OMC by 67% and 150% for the high CTS and calsil–chitosan-treated soil (CCTS) doses. Calsil coated the soil particles and prevented closer packing under compaction, reducing MDUW by 7.8% and 18% for CTS and CCTS at maximal dosage. The development of hydrated cementitious products made the soil brittle, causing the post-peak strength of CCTS samples to diminish significantly with age. FTIR spectroscopy showed hydrogen bonding strengthening CTS, while XRD revealed cementitious compounds in CCTS. The strength of the soil treated with chitosan and calsil showed a higher strength than soil treated with only chitosan.
Sustainable Business Model Implementation in Polish Enterprises
Authors: Mazur Barbara , Walczyna Anna , Wilczewska Weronika
Published: July 2024

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in sustainable business models. Through their development, companies can increase their presence in the global market, contributing to a more responsible use of its resources. Sustainable business model development plays a significant role in motivating companies to innovate towards sustainability and is a powerful driver of market competitiveness. This article aims to present the concepts and elements of sustainable business models in the context of literature research and to analyze their implementation in Polish companies by defining the scope of activities for the economy, environment, and society. The research included a comparative analysis of the academic literature on sustainable business models and an analysis of empirical research conducted on a nationwide sample of 231 Polish small, medium, and large enterprises operating across the country. A diagnostic survey method using a survey questionnaire was used. They were most concerned with the ‘green economy’ area, followed by the social area and those related to staff personal development. Companies of different sizes have integrated the dimensions of TBL differently, depending on their perception and interpretation of economic, social, and environmental activities. This integration level determines the strategies that companies adopt, appropriate to the objectives set and the resources available.
The Mitigating Efficacy of Multi-Functional Storage Spaces in Alleviating Urban Floods across Diverse Rainfall Scenarios
Authors: Fan Yuyan , Yu Haijun , He Sijing , Lai Chengguang , Li Xiangyang , Jiang Xiaotian
Published: July 2024

With accelerated urbanization and escalating severity and frequency of extreme precipitation events, urban flooding has become increasingly prevalent, posing significant threats to human life and economic well-being. Given the scarcity of land resources, the integration of flood mitigation measures into public spaces, particularly in the form of multi-functional storage spaces (MFSs), emerges as an effective strategy for rainwater retention. To assess the efficacy of MFS, a coupled modeling framework, comprising the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) and the LISFLOOD-FP hydrodynamic model, was employed in the study. Under rainstorms of varying design characterized by diverse return periods and peak rainfall intensity locations, the study simulated and compared the performance of low-impact-development (LID) strategies, MFS, and a combined approach utilizing both LID and MFS (ALL). The findings indicate that the performance of these strategies significantly varies under diverse rainfall intensity and peak coefficients. Specifically, as the return period increases, the reduction rates of the three projects gradually diminish. For lower return periods (P ≤ 10), the order of reduction effectiveness was LID < MFS < ALL; whereas, for higher return periods (P ≥ 20), the order was LID < ALL < MFS. LID exhibited superior performance under low return periods with an early-peak-rainfall position, and under high return periods with a mid-peak position. MFS and the ALL approach achieved the most significant reduction effects under early-peak-rainfall positions. LID may introduce uncertainties into the performance of MFS during rainfall events with higher return periods and peak coefficients. The outcomes of this research offer valuable technical insights that can inform urban planning strategies and enhance the design of flood mitigation measures in urban environments.
The Spatiotemporal Decoupling Relationship between Economic Development, Energy Consumption, and Carbon Dioxide Emissions in Xinjiang Province from 2006 to 2020
Authors: Meng Haiyan , Hu Yi , Dong Zuoji
Published: July 2024

Understanding the spatiotemporal decoupling effects among economic development, energy consumption, and carbon dioxide emissions is paramount to achieving sustainable development. This relationship sheds light on how regions can grow economically while managing their energy resources efficiently and minimizing environmental impacts. This study examines the critical and globally relevant issue of spatiotemporal decoupling that includes economic development, energy consumption, and carbon dioxide emissions in Xinjiang Province from 2006 to 2020. The Tapio Elasticity Analysis Method is utilized to achieve this objective. We found that the early years showed expansive coupling, reflecting a phase where economic growth was closely tied to increases in energy consumption and emissions. However, over time, particularly post-2010, there is a noticeable shift towards weak decoupling and eventually to more substantial forms of decoupling. The primary sector displayed mostly weak and strong decoupling. The secondary sector, however, showed fluctuating decoupling states. In the tertiary sector, a generally weak decoupling was observed. A spatial analysis across Xinjiang’s prefectures and cities revealed pronounced regional variations. This investigation validates the effectiveness of regional ecological policies and illustrates the necessity of tailored strategies to foster sustainable development. Our findings provide valuable insights not only for regional policymakers but also for international stakeholders aiming to achieve sustainable development. The results underline the importance of tailored strategies in different regions, contributing to the broader understanding of sustainable development dynamics.
On Certain Rough Marcinkiewicz Integral Operators with Grafakos-Stefanov Kernels on Product Spaces
Authors: Al-Qassem Hussain , Ali Mohammed
Published: July 2024

In this paper, several classes of rough Marcinkiewicz integral operators along surfaces of revolution on product spaces are investigated. We prove the Lp boundedness of these operators when their kernels functions belong to a class of functions related to a class of functions introduced by Grafakos-Stefanov. The results in this paper extend and improve several known results on Marcinkiewicz integrals over a symmetric space.
The Neutron Lifetime Discrepancy and Its Implications for Cosmology and Dark Matter
Authors: Wietfeldt Fred E.
Published: July 2024

Free neutron decay is the prototype for nuclear beta decay and other semileptonic weak particle decays. It provides important insights into the symmetries of the weak nuclear force. Neutron decay is important for understanding the formation and abundance of light elements in the early universe. The two main experimental approaches for measuring the neutron lifetime, the beam method and the ultracold neutron storage method, have produced results that currently differ by 9.8 ± 2.0 s. While this discrepancy probably has an experimental origin, a more exciting prospect is that it may be explained by new physics, with possible connections to dark matter. The experimental status of the neutron lifetime is briefly reviewed, with an emphasis on its implications for cosmology, astrophysics, and dark matter.
Variance Estimation under Some Transformation for Both Symmetric and Asymmetric Data
Authors: Daraz Umer , Alomair Mohammed Ahmed , Albalawi Olayan
Published: July 2024

This article suggests an improved class of efficient estimators that use various transformations to estimate the finite population variance of the study variable. These estimators are particularly helpful in situations where we know about the minimum and maximum values of the auxiliary variable, and the ranks of the auxiliary variable are associated with the study variable. Consequently, these rankings can be applied as an effective tool to improve the accuracy of the estimator. A first-order approximation is used to investigate the properties of the proposed class of estimators, such as bias and mean squared error (MSE) under simple random sampling. A simulation study carried out in order to measure the performance and verify the theoretical results. The suggested class of estimators has a greater percent relative efficiency (PRE) than the other existing estimators in all of the simulated situations, according to the results. Three symmetric and asymmetric datasets are examined in the application section in order to show the superior performance of the proposed class of estimators over the existing estimators.
DNA Repair and Mutagenesis of ADP-Ribosylated DNA by Pierisin
Authors: Kawanishi Masanobu , Yagi Takashi , Totsuka Yukari , Wakabayashi Keiji
Published: July 2024

Pierisin is a DNA-targeting ADP-ribosyltransferase found in cabbage white butterfly (Pieris rapae). Pierisin transfers an ADP-ribosyl moiety to the 2-amino group of the guanine residue in DNA, yielding N2-(ADP-ribos-1-yl)-2′-deoxyguanosine (N2-ADPR-dG). Generally, such chemically modified DNA is recognized as DNA damage and elicits cellular responses, including DNA repair pathways. In Escherichia coli and human cells, it has been experimentally demonstrated that N2-ADPR-dG is a substrate of the nucleotide excision repair system. Although DNA repair machineries can remove most lesions, some unrepaired damages frequently lead to mutagenesis through DNA replication. Replication past the damaged DNA template is called translesion DNA synthesis (TLS). In vitro primer extension experiments have shown that eukaryotic DNA polymerase κ is involved in TLS across N2-ADPR-dG. In many cases, TLS is error-prone and thus a mutagenic process. Indeed, the induction of G:C to T:A and G:C to C:G mutations by N2-ADPR-dG in the hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase gene mutation assay with Chinese hamster cells and supF shuttle vector plasmids assay using human fibroblasts has been reported. This review provides a detailed overview of DNA repair, TLS and mutagenesis of N2-ADPR-dG induced by cabbage butterfly pierisin-1.
Mapping Urban Landscapes Prone to Hosting Breeding Containers for Dengue-Vector Mosquitoes: A Case Study in Bangkok
Authors: Daudé Eric , Cebeillac Alexandre , Nakhapakorn Kanchana , Paul Rick
Published: July 2024

Dengue fever is an urban, tropical, and semi-tropical disease transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. One significant challenge lies in identifying reliable intra-urban indicators of their densities. Following standardized sampling protocols that adequately take into account the spatial heterogeneity of the geographical contexts which may influence mosquito habitats is therefore fundamental to compare studies and follow such relevant indicators. We develop a method for subdividing urban territory based on environmental factors which are susceptible to influence the density of potential mosquito-breeding containers. Indeed, the presence of these containers, most of which are produced by humans, is essential for the renewal of mosquito populations. Land-uses variables and their local variations are determinant in this analysis. Starting from each building and its immediate neighborhood described in terms of vegetation and open area, we computed the local landscape metrics of a million buildings in Bangkok. We then used segmentation and clustering techniques to generate homogeneous zones based on these components and physiognomy. Subsequently, a classification process was conducted to characterize these zones according to land-use and composition indicators. We applied this automatic clustering method within Bangkok’s urban area. This classification built from hypotheses on the existence of links between the types of urban landscape and the presence of outdoor containers must be evaluated and will serve as a foundation for the spatial sampling of field studies for vector surveillance in Bangkok. The choice of sampling zones, even if it must be based on an administrative division due to the decentralization of health agencies in Bangkok, can then be enriched by this new, more functional division. This method, due to the genericity of the factors used, could be tested in other cities prone to dengue vectors.
Characterization of Human Immortalized Keratinocyte Cells Infected by Monkeypox Virus
Authors: Gu Chaode , Huang Zhiqiang , Sun Yongyang , Shi Shaowen , Li Xiubo , Li Nan , Liu Yang , Guo Zhendong , Jin Ningyi , Zhao Zongzheng , Li Xiao , Wang Hongwei
Published: July 2024

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) can induce systemic skin lesions after infection. This research focused on studying MPXV proliferation and the response of keratinocytes. Using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), we visualized different stages of MPXV development in human immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT). We identified exocytosis of enveloped viruses as the exit mechanism for MPXV in HaCaT cells. Infected keratinocytes showed submicroscopic changes, such as the formation of vesicle-like structures through the recombination of rough endoplasmic reticulum membranes and alterations in mitochondrial morphology. Transcriptome analysis revealed the suppressed genes related to interferon pathway activation and the reduced expression of antimicrobial peptides and chemokines, which may facilitate viral immune evasion. In addition, pathway enrichment analysis highlighted systemic lupus erythematosus pathway activation and the inhibition of the Toll-like receptor signaling and retinol metabolism pathways, providing insights into the mechanisms underlying MPXV-induced skin lesions. This study advances our understanding of MPXV’s interaction with keratinocytes and the complex mechanisms leading to skin lesions.
Omicron XBB.1.16-Adapted Vaccine for COVID-19: Interim Immunogenicity and Safety Clinical Trial Results
Authors: López Fernández María Jesús , Narejos Silvia , Castro Antoni , Echave-Sustaeta José María , Forner María José , Arana-Arri Eunate , Molto José , Bernad Laia , Pérez-Caballero Raúl , Prado Julia G. , Raïch-Regué Dàlia , Boreika Rytis , Izquierdo-Useros Nuria , Trinité Benjamin , Blanco Julià , Puig-Barberà Joan , Natalini Martínez Silvina
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: The global coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination adapts to protect populations from emerging variants. This communication presents interim findings from the new Omicron XBB.1.16-adapted PHH-1V81 protein-based vaccine compared to an XBB.1.5-adapted mRNA vaccine against various acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) strains. (2) Methods: In a Phase IIb/III pivotal trial, adults previously vaccinated with a primary scheme and at least one booster dose of an EU-approved mRNA vaccine randomly received either the PHH-1V81 or BNT162b2 XBB.1.5 vaccine booster as a single dose. The primary efficacy endpoint assessed neutralization titers against the Omicron XBB.1.16 variant at day 14. Secondary endpoints evaluated neutralization titers and cellular immunity against different variants. Safety endpoints comprised solicited reactions up to day 7 post-vaccination and serious adverse events until the cut-off date of the interim analysis. Changes in humoral responses were assessed by pseudovirion-based or virus neutralization assays. (3) Results: At the cut-off date, immunogenicity assessments included 599 participants. Both boosters elicited neutralizing antibodies against XBB.1.16, XBB.1.5, and JN.1, with PHH-1V81 inducing a higher response for all variants. The PHH-1V8 booster triggers a superior neutralizing antibody response against XBB variants compared to the mRNA vaccine. A subgroup analysis consistently revealed higher neutralizing antibody responses with PHH-1V81 across age groups, SARS-CoV-2 infection history, and the number of prior vaccination shots. A safety analysis (n = 607) at the day 14 visit revealed favorable safety profiles without any serious vaccine-related adverse events. (4) Conclusions: PHH-1V81 demonstrates superiority on humoral immunogenicity compared to the mRNA vaccine against XBB variants and non-inferiority against JN.1 with a favorable safety profile and lower reactogenicity, confirming its potential as a vaccine candidate.
Assessment of Epidemiological Trend of Influenza-Like Illness in Italy from 2010/2011 to 2023/2024 Season: Key Points to Optimize Future Vaccination Strategies against Influenza
Authors: Boccalini Sara , Bechini Angela
Published: July 2024

Seasonal influenza is an acute respiratory infectious disease due to influenza viruses, causing a relevant number of illnesses and deaths each year worldwide. Influenza is a preventable disease by vaccination. The aim of this study was to assess the epidemiology of seasonal influenza in Italy through the analysis of data from the epidemiological and virological RespiVirNet surveillance system for the season 2010/2011 to 2023/2024 to identify the epidemiological key points to plan the most appropriate vaccination strategies. The cumulative and maximum weekly incidence of influenza-like illness (ILI) and epidemic period (beginning, end, duration in weeks) were assessed in the pre-pandemic period (2010/2011–2019/2020) and they were compared to the pandemic and post-pandemic one. In all seasons, children reported the highest incidence values of ILI and longer epidemic periods in contrast with the older population. The epidemic seasons 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 had abnormal trends while in the last seasons 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 the epidemiological and virological trends of ILI were confirmed as reported in the pre-pandemic period but with high intensity. Influenza virus A was predominant: the H3N2 subtype circulated more than virus H1N1pdm09. In the few seasons when influenza virus B was the most frequent influenza agent, it co-circulated with influenza virus A. The monitoring of cases is the fundamental tool to better understand the epidemiology of influenza and to optimize future preventive strategies.
Changes in the Microbiome in Yak Mastitis: Insights Based on Full-Length 16S rRNA Sequencing
Authors: Zhang Lihong , Ma Hongcai , Tang Wenqiang , Zeng Jiangyong , Kulyar Md. F. , Hu Junjie
Published: July 2024

Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland that can be caused by various factors, including biological, chemical, mechanical, or physical. Microbiological culture, DNA techniques, and high-throughput next-generation sequencing have been used to identify mastitis-causing pathogens in various animal species. However, little is known about microbiota and microbiome changes linked to yak milk mastitis. This study aimed to characterize the milk microbiota of healthy and mastitis-infected yaks using full-length 16S rRNA sequencing. The results showed that the bacterial microbiota comprises 7 phyla, 9 classes, 20 orders, 39 families, 59 genera, and 72 species. Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were the predominant microbial communities, with lower abundances of Bacteroidota, Actinobacteriota, Acidobacteriota, and other minor groupings also observed. Proteobacteria dominated the clinical and subclinical mastitis groups (95.36% and 89.32%, respectively), in contrast to the healthy group (60.17%). Conversely, Firmicutes were more common in the healthy group (39.7%) than in the subclinical and clinical mastitis groups (10.49% and 2.92%, respectively). The predominant organisms found in the healthy group were Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactococcus piscium, Carnobacterium maltaromaticum, and Lactococcus raffinolactis. Low abundances of Staphylococcus aureus species were found in both subclinical and clinical mastitis groups, with Moraxella osloensis and Psychrobacter cibarius dominating the subclinical mastitis group and Pseudomonas fluorescens dominating the clinical mastitis group. An alpha diversity study revealed that the healthy group had a higher microbial diversity than the clinical and subclinical mastitis groups. According to beta-diversity analysis, the principal coordinate analysis identified that mastitis-infected samples significantly differed from healthy ones. The milk microbiota of healthy yaks is more varied, and specific prominent taxa within various groups can act as marker microorganisms for mastitis risk. The genera Leuconostoc and Lactococcus are promising candidates for creating probiotics.
Hydra for 21st Century—A Fine Model in Freshwater Research
Authors: Kovačević Goran , Korać Petra , Želježić Davor , Sertić Perić Mirela , Peharec Štefanić Petra , Sirovina Damir , Novosel Maja , Gottstein Sanja
Published: July 2024

Hydra is known for its natural occurrence, anatomical simplicity, intricate physiology, regenerative capacity, and ease of maintenance and manipulation in laboratory environments. It has proven to be a valuable model organism in various disciplines. Its applications range from developmental biology, stem cell research, animal physiology to environmental toxicology including ecotoxicology. The sensitivity of Hydra to a variety of environmental stressors and chemical agents such as metals, nanomaterials, and toxic organic compounds provides valuable insights into physiological mechanisms affected by environmental stressors and pollution, and Hydra can be of great use in environmental monitoring. Furthermore, since green Hydra lives in a symbiotic relationship with unicellular photoautotrophic algae, it is a suitable model organism for symbiosis research. Recently, it has become a popular model in holobiont research. The adaptability and importance of Hydra also extends to aquatic science and aquatic ecology, particularly in the context of monitoring and water pollution. Since the 1980s, Hydra has been increasingly used in various fields of research and has established itself as an important versatile model organism in numerous scientific studies. Hydra also represents an outstanding model in the fields of education and STEM. Hydra continues to be an important model in the 21st century, contributing significantly to our understanding of the biology of water and advancing freshwater research, and possibly finding its way to regenerative medicine and tumor pathobiology research.
Evaluation of the Impact of Comprehensive Watershed Management on Carbon Sequestration Capacity of Soil and Water Conservation: A Case Study of the Luodi River Watershed in Changting County, Fujian Province
Authors: Yue Shaofeng , Wu Shidai , Li Xiaoyan , Li Zhiguang , Wu Yong , Zhong Xiaojian
Published: July 2024

Soil and water conservation measures have good carbon sinking capacity, and the comprehensive management of small watersheds involves plant measures, engineering measures and farming measures, which profoundly affect the capacity of the three major carbon pools of soil, vegetation and water bodies, making them an ideal place to carry out the monitoring and accounting of carbon sinks in soil and water conservation. The purpose of this paper is to monitor and evaluate the carbon sinks of soil and vegetation, to provide techniques and methods for the implementation of dynamic monitoring and evaluation of carbon sinks in soil and water conservation projects, and to provide theoretical and methodological support for the participation of soil and water conservation projects in carbon trading and the study of the formulation of relevant rules. In this study, field sampling and analysis, LiDAR, remote sensing and other related parameters were used to account for the carbon storage of vegetation carbon pools and soil carbon pools in the Luodi River sub-watershed, Changting County, Fujian Province, from 2001 to 2022, and to evaluate the carbon sink capacity of the various soil and water conservation management measures in the sub-watershed. The results show that after 21 years of comprehensive management, various soil and water conservation measures in the Luodi River sub-basin have significantly enhanced the role and capacity of carbon sinks, and the sub-basin’s carbon stock increased by 3.97 × 104 t, with an average annual increase of 1.89 × 103 t/a. From the perspective of the carbon pools, the carbon stocks of soil and vegetation increased by 73.73% and 346.41%, respectively, from 2001 to 2022. The total carbon sunk in the sub-watershed reached 2.90 × 104 t, of which 1.57 × 104 t was in soil carbon sinks and 1.34 × 104 t was in vegetation carbon sinks. There were differences in the ability of various measures to enhance the increment of the carbon sink, among which the Castanea mollissima and the Fertilized Pinus massoniana Forest had the most obvious increase in carbon sunk, followed by the Mixed Needleleaf and Broadleaf Forest, the Nurture and Management Pinus massoniana Forest, and the Horizontal terraces Pinus massoniana Forest, and lastly, the Closed Management Forest and the Morella rubra. Various soil and water conservation measures have obvious effects of carbon retention, carbon sequestration and sink enhancement, while Castanea mollissima and Fertilized Pinus massoniana Forest and other forests that implement land preparation and afforestation with fertilization and nourishment measures have more significant increases in carbon sink capacity, which is an effective measure to improve the benefits of soil and water conservation and increase the amount of carbon sinks.
Discussion on the Treatment of Rural Domestic Sewage in the Water Source Area of the Middle Route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project—A Case Study of a Village
Authors: Zhang Zhengan , Li Yepu , Yang Jingnan , Wang Dayang , Liu Shaobo , Liu Han , Song Xilei , Zhou Shengtao , Li Bailian Larry
Published: July 2024

Rural domestic sewage, originating from human activities that involve the extraction and utilization of natural resources, is an inherent component of the ecological cycle in nature. Therefore, its disposal methods should align and harmonize with the laws governing nature’s evolutionary processes. This study conducted a comprehensive investigation on the domestic sewage facilities in representative villages located within the water source protection area of the middle route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project. Taking Village A’s domestic sewage treatment station as a case study, an analysis was performed to assess its operational status and identify existing issues. The consideration of rural domestic sewage treatment should encompass factors such as the generation and discharge of household wastewater, the characteristics of water quality, discharge regulations, the natural and social environment, as well as post-completion operations and maintenance modes. We also proposed source reduction measures for the reuse of gray water in domestic sewage treatment in Village A, along with integrated treatment approaches involving biochemical treatment, landscape integration, and farmland irrigation for black water. These measures not only achieve effective treatment outcomes but also foster harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. Moreover, they align with the principles of ecological civilization while considering rural revitalization and promoting green agricultural development.
Scenario-Based Modeling on Chlorophyll-a in Uiam Reservoir of Korea According to Variation of Dam Discharge
Authors: Lee Dong Yeol , Baek Kyong Oh
Published: July 2024

This study analyzes quantitative algae mitigation, using chlorophyll-a as an indicator, through waterbody management techniques such as pulses released from upstream dams, employing a three-dimensional numerical model. Numerical simulations focused on algae reduction through dam operations by investigating nine scenarios based on Chuncheon Dam, Soyang Dam, and Uiam Dam, located in the upper and lower reaches of Uiam Reservoir of Korea. These scenarios, aligned with actual dam operation manuals, aimed to differentiate the impact of each dam’s operation by decreasing water residence time for Uiam Reservoir. The Uiam Reservoir, smaller than the upstream Chuncheon Dam and Soyang River Dam, is significantly influenced by their discharge rates. During summer, temperature differences exceeding 7 °C between discharges from Chuncheon Dam and Soyang Dam inflowed into the right side and the left side, respectively, of the reservoir, leading to poor mixing, which was further hindered by islands within the reservoir. Consequently, due to the influence of the different base water temperatures of the Bukhan River and Soyang River and the topographical characteristics, the impact range varied depending on the operation of each dam, and the amount of algae mitigation differed at each point. In emergency situations where algae blooms proliferate rapidly, appropriate dam operations in water bodies with large dams upstream and downstream, like Uiam Reservoir, can be effective in mitigating algae at specific regions of the reservoir.
Thermodynamic Modeling and Optimization of Biomass and Bio-Renewable Organic Source Gasification in Supercritical Water Using Gibbs Free Energy Minimization
Authors: Moravvej Zohre , Bazargani Zohreh , Esmaeilzadeh Feridun
Published: July 2024

The supercritical water gasification (SCWG) of different kinds of feed including glycerol, lignin, humic acid, and ethylene glycol is investigated to predict product gas yields using a non-stoichiometric thermodynamic model. This model employs Gibbs free energy minimization, coupled with the penalty method as an optimization method. The results demonstrate excellent prediction accuracy for hydrogen yield, with average absolute relative deviations (AARDs) of 2.70%, 11.23%, and 0.17% for glycerol, humic acid, and ethylene glycol, respectively. Lignin prediction showed a higher AARD of 25.95%. Furthermore, the penalty method exhibited superior performance compared to the Lagrange method, achieving a reduction in error ranging from 66% to 88%. Moreover, the effect of reaction temperature and feed concentration on the molar gas yields was elucidated. This study establishes that the penalty method within the thermodynamic model effectively predicts product gas yields from biomass and bio-renewable feedstocks, with deviations below 10%. The developed thermodynamic model provides a reliable method for optimizing gasification processes, potentially improving the efficiency and accuracy of hydrogen production from diverse biomass and bio-renewable resources. This advancement supports the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and promotes the use of sustainable energy sources.
Psicolinguística experimental: aquisição, compreensão e produção da linguagem
Authors: Oliveira Cândido Samuel Fonseca de , Marcilese Mercedes , Name Cristina
Published: July 2024

A psicolinguística se constitui como um campo de estudos que busca ser interdisciplinar, masteoricamente coerente e que visa a formular uma abordagem unificada sobre a comunicaçãolinguística humana do ponto de vista mentalista. Diferencia-se de outras disciplinas que tambémse interessam pela relação entre linguagem e mente ao tentar desvendar a natureza dasoperações mentais envolvidas no processamento linguístico, concebendo a linguagem como umsistema cognitivo inserido na complexa dinâmica entre o geral e o específico da mente humana.O presente artigo traz uma caracterização da área e apresenta um conjunto de pesquisasrecentes desenvolvidas no âmbito da psicolinguística experimental no cenário brasileiro.
Sexual and Gender-Diverse Individuals Face More Health Challenges during COVID-19: A Large-Scale Social Media Analysis with Natural Language Processing
Authors: Zhang Zhiyun , Hua Yining , Zhou Peilin , Lin Shixu , Li Minghui , Zhang Yujie , Zhou Li , Liao Yanhui , Yang Jie
Published: July 2024

Background:
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a disproportionate impact on the sexual and gender-diverse (SGD) community. Compared with non-SGD populations, their social relations and health status are more vulnerable, whereas public health data regarding SGD are scarce.
Methods:
To analyze the concerns and health status of SGD individuals, this cohort study leveraged 471,371,477 tweets from 251,455 SGD and 22,644,411 non-SGD users, spanning from 2020 February 1 to 2022 April 30. The outcome measures comprised the distribution and dynamics of COVID-related topics, attitudes toward vaccines, and the prevalence of symptoms.
Results:
Topic analysis revealed that SGD users engaged more frequently in discussions related to “friends and family” (20.5% vs. 13.1%,
P
< 0.001) and “wear masks” (10.1% vs. 8.3%,
P
< 0.001) compared to non-SGD users. Additionally, SGD users exhibited a marked higher proportion of positive sentiment in tweets about vaccines, including Moderna, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Johnson & Johnson. Among 102,464 users who self-reported COVID-19 diagnoses, SGD users disclosed significantly higher frequencies of mentioning 61 out of 69 COVID-related symptoms than non-SGD users, encompassing both physical and mental health challenges.
Conclusion:
The results provide insights into an understanding of the unique needs and experiences of the SGD community during the pandemic, emphasizing the value of social media data in epidemiological and public health research.
Islamic Financial Institutions in a Country with a Conventional Financial System: Experience of Russian Regions
Authors: Ишмухаметов Наиль Салаватович , Абдуллин Алмаз Байрасович
Published: July 2024

В статье анализируются тенденции развития отрасли исламских финансов в мире. Рассмотрена текущая ситуация в сфере исламских финансов, характерная для современной России в целом. Проанализирован опыт регионов России в деле развития исламских финансовых институтов, выявлены проблемы, накопленные в данной сфере. Предложено направление развития исламских финансовых институтов в России путем создания отдельного вида некредитных финансовых организаций.

The article analyzes the trends in the development of the Islamic finance industry in the world. The current situation in the field of Islamic finance, characteristic of modern Russia as a whole, is considered. The experience of Russian regions in the development of Islamic financial institutions is analyzed; the problems accumulated in this area are identified. The direction of development of Islamic financial institutions in Russia by creating a separate type of non-credit financial organizations is proposed.
Current Trends of Political Parties and Political Leadership Researches (the Results of 8th All-Russian Congress of Political Scientists RPSA)
Authors: Евдокимов Николай Анатольевич , Шаяхметов Арсен Маратович
Published: July 2024

Статья представляет собой обзор круглых столов «Исследовательский комитет по сравнительному изучению партий и избирательных систем» и «Политическое лидерство», состоявшихся в рамках VIII Всероссийского конгресса политологов Российской ассоциации политической науки (6-8 декабря 2018 года). Авторами анализируются выступления и тезисы участников конгресса, оценивается перспектива развития данных научных направлений в отечественной политологии.

The article is a review of sections «Research Committee on Comparative Studies of Parties and Electoral Systems» and «Political Leadership» held within the framework of the 8th All-Russian Congress of political scientists of Russian Association of Political Science (December 6-8, 2018). The authors analyze the speeches and theses of the congress participants and assess the prospects for the development of these scientific directions in Russian political science.
Influence of Intellectual Capital on the Region's Economy
Authors: Алешкина Ольга Вячеславовна
Published: July 2024

Актуальность данной статьи обусловлена важностью интеллектуального капитала для экономики современного периода, как на уровне предприятия, так и на уровне отдельного региона и государства в целом. Необходимы изучение составляющих интеллектуального капитала и путей его формирования, своевременная оценка и определение механизма совершенствования.

The relevance of this article is due to the importance of intellectual capital for the economy of the modern period both at the enterprise level and at the level of a particular region and the state as a whole. It is necessary to study the components of intellectual capital and ways of its formation, timely assessment and determination of the mechanism of improvement.