bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Grazing of Native Grasslands Provides Ecosystem Services and Reduces Economic Instability for Livestock Systems in the Flooding Pampa, Argentina
Authors: Jacobo Elizabeth J. , Martínez Ortiz Ulises J. , Cotroneo Santiago M. , Rodríguez Adriana M.
Published: May 2024

There is a widespread concern about the negative impact of intensive livestock farming on climate change and biodiversity loss. We analyzed the trade-off between meat production and environmental variables related to global warming—energy consumption, use efficiency of energy, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, carbon footprint, and GHG balance—of two alternative intensification strategies of livestock farming in the Flooding Pampa: conventional intensification (CI) based on external inputs, and ecological intensification (EI) based on maintaining native grassland in good condition through adaptive multi-paddock grazing (AMPG). We also explored the relationship between meat production and the economic variables gross margin and its year-to-year variation. Energy consumption was positively correlated with meat production (ρ = 0.95, p = 0.0117), and EI farms consumed less fuel energy and showed higher energy use efficiency than CI farms (294 ± 152 vs. 2740 ± 442 MJ ha−1 y−1, 38.4 ± 28.8 vs. 1.23 ± 0.13 MJ kg LW−1 y−1, p < 0.05, respectively). GHG emissions and carbon footprint did not show significant differences between EI and CI strategies. As soil carbon sequestration was significantly higher in EI farms than in CI farms (1676 ± 304 vs. −433 ± 343 kg CO2eq ha−1 y−1, p < 0.05), GHG balance resulted almost neutral and higher under the EI strategy (−693 ± 732 vs. −3520 ± 774 kg CO2eq ha−1 y−1, p < 0.05). CI strategy obtained higher meat production but a similar gross margin to the EI strategy and a more unstable economic return, as the coefficient of variation in the gross margin doubled that of the EI strategy (84 + 13.3 vs. 43 + 2.6, respectively, p < 0.05). Ecological intensification of cattle production in the Flooding Pampa demonstrates the potential for a positive relationship between individual cattle farmers’ profits and overall societal benefits, as reflected in improved environmental performance.
Comprehensive Analysis of Industrial Solid-Waste-to-Energy by Refuse-Derived Fuel Technology: A Case Study in Shanghai
Authors: Li Ting , Li Wei , Lou Ziyang , Wang Luochun
Published: May 2024

The prolific generation of industrial solid waste (ISW) in China, coupled with its complex composition, presents significant challenges due to exceeding environmental capacity. Identifying an appropriate approach to maximize the use of ISW, particularly low-value industrial solid waste (LISW), is crucial for addressing environmental issues. This study explores the potential of converting LISW into refuse-derived fuel (RDF), an energy-rich precursor, as a promising method for disposal and reutilization. The advantages of RDF lie primarily in two key areas: management and technology. Regulatory aspects cover principles governing RDF feedstock preparation, storage and transportation requirements, and pollutant emission regulations. Technical considerations include pretreatment techniques, additive selection, and analyzing RDF as a substitute for fossil fuels. To assess the effectiveness of RDF technology in harnessing the remaining energy from LISW, this paper provides an overview of relevant national laws and regulations concerning incineration plants, guiding the utilization of RDF in such facilities. Additionally, using Shanghai as a case study, we evaluate the ISW situation, domestic waste incineration plants, and cement kiln plants to identify potential scenarios for RDF application in future energy systems. Our findings suggest that LISW holds significant potential as a power plant fuel, particularly when blended with higher calorific value materials to produce RDF particles with exceptional combustion performance, density, and storage characteristics.
Optimizing Residential Construction Site Selection in Mountainous Regions Using Geospatial Data and eXplainable AI
Authors: Alqahtani Dhafer , Mallick Javed , Alqahtani Abdulmohsen M. , Talukdar Swapan
Published: May 2024

The rapid urbanization of Abha and its surrounding cities in Saudi Arabia’s mountainous regions poses challenges for sustainable and secure development. This study aimed to identify suitable sites for eco-friendly and safe building complexes amidst complex geophysical, geoecological, and socio-economic factors, integrating natural hazards assessment and risk management. Employing the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (Fuzzy-AHP), the study constructed a suitability model incorporating sixteen parameters. Additionally, a Deep Neural Network (DNN) based on eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) conducted sensitivity analyses to assess the parameters’ influence on optimal location decision making. The results reveal slope as the most crucial parameter (22.90%), followed by altitude and land use/land cover (13.24%), emphasizing topography and environmental considerations. Drainage density (11.36%) and rainfall patterns (9.15%) are also significant for flood defense and water management. Only 12.21% of the study area is deemed “highly suitable”, with “no-build zones” designated for safety and environmental protection. DNN-based XAI demonstrates the positive impact of variables like the NDVI and municipal solid waste generation on site selection, informing waste management and ecological preservation strategies. This integrated methodology provides actionable insights for sustainable and safe residential development in Abha, aiding informed decision making and balancing urban expansion with environmental conservation and hazard risk reduction.
Study on Leaf Morphological and Stoichiometric Traits of Cunninghamia lanceolata Based on Different Provenances
Authors: Wang Yihui , Niu Xiang , Wang Bing
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study is to look into the differences in leaf functional traits between Cunninghamia lanceolata from different provenances, as well as to expose the response characteristics of leaf morphological and stoichiometric traits of Cunninghamia lanceolata from different provenances to diverse the environment of provenances. In this study, we chose 30 Cunninghamia lanceolata from different provenances as the research object and analyze the differences in leaf morphological and stoichiometric traits of Cunninghamia lanceolata from different provenances, the relationships among leaf functional traits, and the relationships between leaf functional traits and environmental factors of provenances. The results showed that the coefficient of variation of leaf morphological traits was 15.31% to 22.86%, and the coefficient of variation of stoichiometry provenances was 3.19% to 26.05%. The coefficient of variation of leaf carbon content was relatively small, indicating that carbon is the most stable element in the Cunninghamia lanceolata. And significant correlations are observed among different leaf functional traits. Using redundancy analysis to explore the relationship between leaf functional traits and environmental factors of provenances, it was found that the genetic effects of environmental factors explained 43.19% of the heterogeneity in leaf functional traits of Cunninghamia lanceolata. As a result, studying the variation of leaf functional traits of Cunninghamia lanceolata from different provenances, as well as how they correlate with environmental factors in provenances, is critical for understanding and predicting the responses and adaptations of Cunninghamia lanceolata from different provenances in the backdrop of global changes in the environment, and it additionally serves as a scientific basis for the sustainable development of Cunninghamia lanceolata and the selection of excellent Cunninghamia lanceolata provenances. Meanwhile, it makes scientific recommendations for China to do research on the sustainable development and productivity enhancement of cedar plantation forests.
Comprehensive Analysis of the Use of Web-GIS for Natural Hazard Management: A Systematic Review
Authors: Daud Muhammad , Ugliotti Francesca Maria , Osello Anna
Published: May 2024

This systematic review aims to synthesise Web-GIS evidence for managing natural hazards to share state-of-the-art practices and policies. A comprehensive search in SCOPUS, among other databases, identified 1775 articles published between 2014 and 2023. Following a selection process based on the PRISMA model, 65 articles met the inclusion criteria. The analysis revealed a growing trend over the past decade, with most research concentrated in the last three years. Eight crucial subtopics within the Web-GIS domain have emerged: Integrated Spatial Analysis and Modelling, Technologies and Infrastructure, Visualisation and User Interface Design, Decision Support Systems, Real-time Monitoring and Early Warning, Disaster Recovery and Resilience, Citizen and Social Media Integration, and Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration. A substantial contribution of the literature has been identified in Decision Support Systems and Integrated Spatial Analysis, reflecting their vital role in strategising and predicting hazard impacts. Furthermore, a geographical distribution analysis revealed significant Web-GIS applications in countries like Italy and China, alongside a deficit in low- and middle-income countries. It also highlights potential gaps in hazard studies, including the need to prioritise heatwave management in the face of climate change. This research calls for policymakers and practitioners to leverage evidence-informed decision making and foster community collaboration for enhanced natural disaster resilience.
A Study on the Factors Influencing the Sustainable Development of Education in the Context of COVID-19: Tencent Conference Online Platform
Authors: Wang Xin , Ma Xingmeng , Wang Ziyi , Guo Yanlong
Published: May 2024

The difficulties of offline education caused by the COVID-19 epidemic are attracting increasing public attention. Although international research on online education platforms is gradually deepening, the research on the influencing factors of Chinese users’ participation in these platforms shows different results due to regional differences. Therefore, this study adopts the technology acceptance model (TAM) as the basis to build the index system of influencing factors for the Tencent conference online education platform. The questionnaire design covered five dimensions, including external environment, platform satisfaction, and continuous use intention. An online questionnaire survey was conducted on participants in some regions of China, 320 questionnaires were distributed, and 297 valid questionnaires were collected. The data were analyzed by SPSS 26.0, and the results of Cronbach’s coefficient of 0.939 and a KMO value of 0.941 were obtained. The weight value, entropy value, and importance ranking of the factors were determined by combining hierarchical analysis and the entropy weighting method. First, the perceived ease of use is the most critical factor influencing the users’ use of online delivery platforms. Second, freedom from geographical time difference, the ease of operation, system perfection, and proficiency in use greatly influenced the participants’ use of the online lecture platform. Third, the study group suggested that the platform should be optimized in terms of convenience, stability, and freedom from geographical time difference, and provide reasonable references and lessons for future educational efforts.
Sustainable Enzymatic Production of Omega-3 Oil from Squid Viscera
Authors: Haque Md Amdadul , Akanbi Taiwo O. , Holland Brendan J. , Sachar Moninder , Barrow Colin J.
Published: May 2024

Fish oils are widely consumed around the world to increase omega-3 fatty acid intake. Due to negative impacts on marine resources and ecosystems from an increasing demand for fish, alternative sustainable sources are under investigation. Squid viscera contains up to 10% oil by mass and is available as a byproduct from squid processing. Squid viscera oil is a source of EPA and DHA and contains the xanthophyll carotenoid astaxanthin, known for its significant anticancer, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and cardiovascular properties. In the raw form, squid viscera oil has a high free fatty acid (FFA) content, so conventional alkaline refining results in low yield and loss of astaxanthin. As a higher-yielding alternative, the current study optimized lipase-catalyzed glycerolysis of squid viscera oil to convert FFA into acylglycerol using a custom-built one-liter immobilized enzyme reactor. To monitor the reaction progress and assess its impact on the oil, we analyzed lipid classes, fatty acid composition and astaxanthin levels. Under optimized conditions, FFA was reduced from 40% to 2.7% in 10 h and 1.7% in 24 h, with no significant effect on EPA and DHA levels, and astaxanthin being retained. Squid viscera presents a safe and sustainable additional source of marine-derived EPA and DHA oil.
The Synergy of Ambidextrous Leadership, Agility, and Entrepreneurial Orientation to Achieve Sustainable AI Product Innovation
Authors: Zhang Shuxin , Suntrayuth Sid
Published: May 2024

This study aims to explore potential mechanisms of ambidextrous leadership (AL) in product innovativeness from the perspective of organizational agility (OA) and entrepreneurial orientation (EO) in firms operating in the artificial intelligence (AI) industry. A quantitative research method was used with 405 questionnaires, and the respondents were randomly selected from reputable databases. Structural equation modeling was employed to evaluate the model fit and conduct hypothesis testing. The findings suggest that ambidextrous leadership demonstrates a significant positive influence on product innovativeness and OA; also, through the mediating role of OA, it is possible to analyze both the direct and indirect relationships among the factors. Additionally, the moderating effect of EO on the intercorrelations among these factors was explored. This study enhances existing knowledge on leadership dynamics in the context of new product development, highlights the importance of adaptability in leadership, and sheds light on the interplay between OA, EO, and new product innovation. This study highlights the role of product innovativeness in sustainable AI product development. Enhanced product innovativeness not only sustains AI product development but also promotes environmental sustainability. This is achieved through the minimization of energy use, reduction in material requirements, and prevention of pollution. Firms are using these insights to develop sustainable and eco-friendly products, as well as create new market opportunities while reducing environmental impact. This research underscores the interconnectedness of factors in this study and sustainability, providing a new perspective on sustainable AI product development.
Evaluating Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Therapies in Rhesus and Cynomolgus Macaques for Predictive Modeling in Humans
Authors: Phu Sydney N. , Leishman David J. , Palmer Sierra D. , Oppler Scott H. , Niewinski Melanie N. , Mutch Lucas A. , Faustich Jill S. , Adams Andrew B. , Tranquillo Robert T. , Graham Melanie L.
Published: May 2024

Anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies are used to prevent life-threatening complications associated with thrombosis. While there are numerous clinical guidelines for antithrombotic medications, there is an incomplete understanding of whether these interventions yield similar effects in preclinical models, potentially impacting their predictive value for translational studies on the development of medical devices, therapies, and surgical techniques. Due to their close physiologic similarities to humans, we employed nonhuman primates (NHPs) using a reverse translational approach to analyze the response to clinical regimens of unfractionated heparin, low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and aspirin to assess concordance with typical human responses and evaluate the predictive validity of this model. We evaluate activated clotting time (ACT) in nine rhesus and six cynomolgus macaques following the intraoperative administration of intravenous unfractionated heparin (100–300 U/kg) reflecting the clinical dose range. We observed a significant dose-dependent effect of heparin on ACT (low-dose average = 114.1 s; high-dose average = 148.3 s; p = 0.0011). LMWH and aspirin, common clinical antithrombotic prophylactics, were evaluated in three rhesus macaques. NHPs achieved therapeutic Anti-Xa levels (mean = 0.64 U/mL) and ARU (mean = 459) via VerifyNow, adhering to clinical guidance using 1.0 mg/kg enoxaparin and 81 mg aspirin. Clinical dosing strategies for unfractionated heparin, LMWH, and aspirin were safe and effective in NHPs, with no development of thrombosis or bleeding complications intraoperatively, postoperatively, or for prophylaxis. Our findings suggest that coagulation studies, performed as an integrative part of studies on biologics, bioengineered devices, or transplantation in NHPs, can be extrapolated to the clinical situation with high predictive validity.
Symmetry and Symmetry-Breaking in Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Herczyński Andrzej , Zenit Roberto
Published: May 2024

It may seem that the heading of this Special Issue of Symmetry—though narrower than the famous all-inclusive title of an essay by Jean-Paul Sartre, Being and Nothingness—encompasses most, if not all, fluid phenomena [...]
A Blockchain-Based Privacy Preserving Intellectual Property Authentication Method
Authors: Yuan Shaoqi , Yang Wenzhong , Tian Xiaodan , Tang Wenjie
Published: May 2024

With the continuous advancement of information technology, a growing number of works, including articles, paintings, and music, are being digitized. Digital content can be swiftly shared and disseminated via the Internet. However, it is also vulnerable to malicious plagiarism, which can seriously infringe upon the rights of creators and dampen their enthusiasm. To protect creators’ rights and interests, a sophisticated method is necessary to authenticate digital intellectual property rights. Traditional authentication methods rely on centralized, trustworthy organizations that are susceptible to single points of failure. Additionally, these methods are prone to network attacks that can lead to data loss, tampering, or leakage. Moreover, the circulation of copyright information often lacks transparency and traceability in traditional systems, which leads to information asymmetry and prevents creators from controlling the use and protection of their personal information during the authentication process. Blockchain technology, with its decentralized, tamper-proof, and traceable attributes, addresses these issues perfectly. In blockchain technology, each node is a peer, ensuring the symmetry of information. However, the transparent feature of blockchains can lead to the leakage of user privacy data. Therefore, this study designs and implements an Ethereum blockchain-based intellectual property authentication scheme with privacy protection. Firstly, we propose a method that combines elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) encryption with digital signatures to achieve selective encryption of user personal information. Subsequently, an authentication algorithm based on Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge (zk-SNARK) is adopted to complete the authentication of intellectual property ownership while encrypting personal privacy data. Finally, we adopt the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) to store large files, solving the problem of blockchain storage space limitations.
Inference for Compound Exponential XLindley Model with Applications to Lifetime Data
Authors: Alghamdi Fatimah M. , Meraou Mohammed Amine , Aljohani Hassan M. , Alrumayh Amani , Riad Fathy H. , Alsheikh Sara Mohamed Ahmed , Alsolmi Meshayil M.
Published: May 2024

The creating of novel models essentially stems from the requirement to appropriate describe survival cases. In this study, a novel lifetime model with two parameters is proposed and studied for modeling more types of data used in different study cases, including symmetric, asymmetric, skewed, and complex datasets. The proposed model is obtained by compounding the exponential and XLindley distributions, and it is regarded as a strong competitor for the widely applied symmetrical and non-symmetrical models. Several characteristics and statistical properties are investigated. The unknown parameters of the recommended model for the complete sample are estimated using two estimation methods; notably, maximum likelihood estimation and Bayes techniques based on several loss functions as well as an approximate tool are used to construct the confidence intervals for the unknown parameters of the suggested model. The estimation procedures are compared using a Monte Carlo simulation experiment to demonstrate their effectiveness. In the end, the applicability and flexibility of the recommended model are conducted using two real lifetime datasets. In our illustration, we compare the practicality of the recommended model with several well-known competing distributions.
Sedenion Algebra Model as an Extension of the Standard Model and Its Link to SU(5)
Authors: Tang Qiang , Tang Jau
Published: May 2024

In the Standard Model, ad hoc hypotheses assume the existence of three generations of point-like leptons and quarks, which possess a point-like structure and follow the Dirac equation involving four anti-commutative matrices. In this work, we consider the sedenion hypercomplex algebra as an extension of the Standard Model and show its close link to SU(5), which is the underlying symmetry group for the grand unification theory (GUT). We first consider the direct-product quaternion model and the eight-element octonion algebra model. We show that neither the associative quaternion model nor the non-associative octonion model could generate three fermion generations. Instead, we show that the sedenion model, which contains three octonion sub-algebras, leads naturally to precisely three fermion generations. Moreover, we demonstrate the use of basis sedenion operators to construct twenty-four 5 × 5 generalized lambda matrices representing SU(5) generators, in analogy to the use of octonion basis operators to generate Gell-Mann’s eight 3 × 3 lambda-matrix generators for SU(3). Thus, we provide a link between the sedenion algebra and Georgi and Glashow’s SU(5) GUT model that unifies the electroweak and strong interactions for the Standard Model’s elementary particles, which obey SU(3)⊗SU(2)⊗U(1) symmetry.
Evaluating a Controlled Electromagnetic Launcher for Safe Remote Drug Delivery
Authors: LaRocco John , Tahmina Qudsia , Simonis John
Published: May 2024

Biologists and veterinarians rely on dart projectors to inject animals with drugs, take biopsies from specimens, or inject tracking chips. Firearms, air guns, and other launchers are limited in their ability to precisely control the kinetic energy of a projectile, which can injure the animal if too high. In order to improve the safety of remote drug delivery, a lidar-modulated electromagnetic launcher and a soft drug delivery dart were prototyped. A single-stage revolver coilgun and soft dart were designed and tested at distances up to 8 m. With a coil efficiency of 2.25%, the launcher could consistently deliver a projectile at a controlled kinetic energy of 1.00 ± 0.006 J and an uncontrolled kinetic energy of 2.66 ± 0.076 J. Although modifications to charging time, sensors, and electronics could improve performance, our launcher performed at the required level at the necessary distances. The precision achieved with commercial components enables many other applications, from law enforcement to manufacturing.
Evaluation of Tactile and Thermophysiological Comfort in Reusable Surgical Gowns Compared to Disposable Gowns
Authors: Georgievska Magdalena , Nigusse Abreha Bayrau , Malengier Benny , Tahir Hasan Riaz , Harding Charlotte , Derbew Tiku Sufiyan , Van Langenhove Lieva
Published: May 2024

Though the transition from disposable to reusable surgical gowns holds substantial promise, successful implementation faces challenges. This study investigated tactile and thermophysiological comfort in surgical reusable gowns, comparing them with their disposable counterparts. Parameters such as surface roughness, compression, heat flux, and material rigidity were tested using a Fabric Touch Tester. Additionally, the water vapour permeability and static charge of the gowns were assessed. Thermophysiological comfort of the gowns was evaluated by measuring the temperature and relative humidity (RH) on test subjects during wear trials where they were engaged in an activity that mimics a surgeon’s performance. Skin temperature was monitored using iButton sensors and a thermal camera, and the impact on heart rate during the task was analysed. Following each test, participants provided subjective feedback through a questionnaire. The results indicated that reusable gowns boasted a smoother texture, translating to reduced friction on the skin and better heat transfer compared to the disposable fabrics, as indicated using FTT. They also exhibited higher water vapour permeability compared to their disposable counterparts. The wear trials revealed minimal differences in comfort between disposable and reusable gowns. While performing the activity, an increase in body temperature led to decreased RH, yet this rise did not adversely affect subject comfort, as validated using heart rate and questionnaire survey data. From a comfort point of view, switching from disposable to reusable gowns would not have drawbacks, meaning hospitals should be able to switch provided logistics and costs can be managed.
Segmentation of Renal Thyroid Follicle Colloid in Common Carp: Insights into Perfluorooctanoic Acid-Induced Morphometric Alterations
Authors: Manera Maurizio , Giari Luisa
Published: May 2024

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a globally prevalent contaminant of concern recognised for its persistence and detrimental effects on both wildlife and humans. While PFOA has been established as a disruptor of thyroid function, limited data exist regarding its impact on thyroid morphology. The kidney of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) harbours numerous thyroid follicles, rendering it a valuable biomarker organ for investigating PFOA-induced thyroid alterations. Renal tissue slides, stained with the Alcian blue/PAS method, were examined from carp in three experimental groups: unexposed, exposed to 200 ng L−1, and exposed to 2 mg L−1 of PFOA over 56 days. Thyroid follicle colloids were segmented, and related morphometric parameters, including perimeter, area, and shape descriptors, were obtained. Statistical analyses revealed significant reductions in thyroid follicle colloid perimeter and area in the 200 ng L−1 PFOA group compared to the unexposed and 2 mg L−1 PFOA groups. Additionally, the fish exposed to PFOA exhibited a significantly higher follicle count compared to the unexposed fish. These findings collectively suggest that PFOA induces thyroid folliculogenesis, emphasising its impact on thyroid morphology even at an environmentally relevant concentration (200 ng L−1).
Detecting Wandering Intermediate-Mass Black Holes with AXIS in the Milky Way and Local Massive Galaxies
Authors: Pacucci Fabio , Seepaul Bryan , Ni Yueying , Cappelluti Nico , Foord Adi
Published: May 2024

This white paper explores the detectability of intermediate-mass black holes (IMBHs) wandering in the Milky Way (MW) and massive local galaxies, with a particular emphasis on the role of AXIS. IMBHs, ranging within 103−6M⊙, are commonly found at the centers of dwarf galaxies and may exist, yet undiscovered, in the MW. By using model spectra for advection-dominated accretion flows (ADAFs), we calculated the expected fluxes emitted by a population of wandering IMBHs with masses of 105M⊙ in various MW environments and extrapolated our results to massive local galaxies. Around 40% of the potential population of wandering IMBHs in the MW can be detected in an AXIS deep field. We proposed criteria to aid with selecting IMBH candidates using already available optical surveys. We also showed that IMBHs wandering in >200 galaxies within 10 Mpc can be easily detected with AXIS when passing within dense galactic environments (e.g., molecular clouds and cold neutral medium). In summary, we highlighted the potential X-ray detectability of wandering IMBHs in local galaxies and provided insights for guiding future surveys. Detecting wandering IMBHs is crucial for understanding their demographics and evolution and the merging history of galaxies. This white paper is part of a series commissioned for the AXIS Probe Concept Mission; additional AXIS white papers can be found at the AXIS website.
Anti-PD-L1 Immunotherapy of Chronic Virus Infection Improves Virus Control without Augmenting Tissue Damage by Fibrosis
Authors: Casella Valentina , Cebollada Rica Paula , Argilaguet Jordi , Vidal Enric , González-Cao María , Güerri-Fernandez Roberto , Bocharov Gennady , Meyerhans Andreas
Published: May 2024

Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors, albeit commonly used against tumors, is still at its infancy against chronic virus infections. It relies on the reinvigoration of exhausted T lymphocytes to eliminate virus-infected cells. Since T cell exhaustion is a physiological process to reduce immunopathology, the reinvigoration of these cells might be associated with an augmentation of pathological changes. To test this possibility, we here analyzed in the model system of chronic lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV)-infected mice whether treatment with the checkpoint inhibitor anti-PD-L1 antibody would increase CD8 T cell-dependent fibrosis. We show that pre-existing spleen fibrosis did not worsen under conditions that increase CD8 T cell functionality and reduce virus loads suggesting that the CD8 T cell functionality increase remained below its pathogenicity threshold. These promising findings should further encourage immunotherapeutic trials against chronic virus infections.
Evaluation of a Project Integrating Financial Incentives into a Hepatitis C Testing and Treatment Model of Care at a Sexual Health Service in Cairns, Australia, 2020–2021
Authors: Dawe Joshua , Gorton Carla , Lewis Rhondda , Richmond Jacqueline A. , Wilkinson Anna L. , Pedrana Alisa , Stoové Mark , Doyle Joseph S. , Russell Darren
Published: May 2024

Background: Understanding the effectiveness of novel models of care in community-based settings is critical to achieving hepatitis C elimination. We conducted an evaluation of a hepatitis C model of care with financial incentives that aimed to improve engagement across the hepatitis C cascade of care at a sexual health service in Cairns, Australia. Methods: Between March 2020 and May 2021, financial incentives were embedded into an established person-centred hepatitis C model of care at Cairns Sexual Health Service. Clients of the Service who self-reported experiences of injecting drugs were offered an AUD 20 cash incentive for hepatitis C testing, treatment initiation, treatment completion, and test for cure. Descriptive statistics were used to describe retention in hepatitis C care in the incentivised model. They were compared to the standard of care offered in the 11 months prior to intervention. Results: A total of 121 clients received financial incentives for hepatitis C testing (antibody or RNA). Twenty-eight clients were hepatitis C RNA positive, of whom 92% (24/28) commenced treatment, 75% (21/28) completed treatment, and 68% (19/28) achieved a sustained virological response (SVR). There were improvements in the proportion of clients diagnosed with hepatitis C who commenced treatment (86% vs. 75%), completed treatment (75% vs. 40%), and achieved SVR (68% vs. 17%) compared to the pre-intervention comparison period. Conclusions: In this study, financial incentives improved engagement and retention in hepatitis C care for people who inject drugs in a model of care that incorporated a person-centred and flexible approach.
The Effect of Age and Comorbidities: Children vs. Adults in Their Response to SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Mentor Girlande , Farrar Daniel S. , Di Chiara Costanza , Dufour Mi-Suk Kang , Valois Silvie , Taillefer Suzanne , Drouin Olivier , Renaud Christian , Kakkar Fatima
Published: May 2024

While children have experienced less severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19) after SARS-CoV-2 infection than adults, the cause of this remains unclear. The objective of this study was to describe the humoral immune response to COVID-19 in child vs. adult household contacts, and to identify predictors of the response over time. In this prospective cohort study, children with a positive SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test (index case) were recruited along with their adult household contacts. Serum IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 S1/S2 spike proteins were compared between children and adults at 6 and 12 months after infection. A total of 91 participants (37 adults and 54 children) from 36 families were enrolled. Overall, 78 (85.7%) participants were seropositive for anti-S1/S2 IgG antibody at 6 months following infection; this was higher in children than in adults (92.6% vs. 75.7%) (p = 0.05). Significant predictors of a lack of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity were age ≥ 25 vs. < 12 years (odds ratio [OR] = 0.23, p = 0.04), presence of comorbidities (vs. none, adjusted OR = 0.23, p = 0.03), and immunosuppression (vs. immunocompetent, adjusted OR = 0.17, p = 0.02).
Analysis of Heart Rate Variability in Newborns Dogs with Different Types of Delivery during the First 35 Days of Life
Authors: Corrêa Jaqueline Valença , Latini Carolina Dragone , Santos Beatriz Almeida , Sarita Cruz Aleixo Amanda , Pereira Keylla Helena Nobre Pacífico , Tsunemi Miriam Harumi , Machado Luiz Henrique de Araujo , Lourenço Maria Lucia Gomes
Published: May 2024

The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of the autonomic nervous system on cardiovascular function during the first 35 days of life in different types of delivery, using heart rate variability (HRV) indices. Thirty newborns were equally divided into two groups based on delivery type: eutocic delivery (EG) and emergency cesarean section (CG). Electrocardiographic evaluation was performed at birth (T0), 24 h postpartum (T1), and at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days of life (T2 to T6). Physical parameters, neonatal reflexes, and Apgar scores were recorded. Over 35 days, the values of the time domain indices were higher in the GE group and increased with age. In the frequency domain, the low frequency (LF) index was higher in the CG, and the opposite occurred for the high frequency (HF) index. Since the CG presented lower HRV than the EG, it was shown that the type of delivery should be considered for the assessment of autonomic nervous system activity in neonates. Thus, as predictive factors of vitality, HRV and Apgar scores can help in the face of neonatal depression, demonstrating that delivery by emergency cesarean section can predispose newborns to delays in the autonomic influence on the heart.
Dynamic Visual Acuity, Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex, and Visual Field in National Football League (NFL) Officiating: Physiology and Visualization Engineering for 3D Virtual On-Field Training
Authors: Ong Joshua , Carrabba Nicole V. , Waisberg Ethan , Zaman Nasif , Memon Hamza , Panzo Nicholas , Lee Virginia A. , Sarker Prithul , Vogt Ashtyn Z. , Laylani Noor , Tavakkoli Alireza , Lee Andrew G.
Published: May 2024

The ability to make on-field, split-second decisions is critical for National Football League (NFL) game officials. Multiple principles in visual function are critical for accuracy and precision of these play calls, including foveation time and unobstructed line of sight, static visual acuity, dynamic visual acuity, vestibulo-ocular reflex, and sufficient visual field. Prior research has shown that a standardized curriculum in these neuro-ophthalmic principles have demonstrated validity and self-rated improvements in understanding, confidence, and likelihood of future utilization by NFL game officials to maximize visual performance during officiating. Virtual reality technology may also be able to help optimize understandings of specific neuro-ophthalmic principles and simulate real-life gameplay. Personal communication between authors and NFL officials and leadership have indicated that there is high interest in 3D virtual on-field training for NFL officiating. In this manuscript, we review the current and past research in this space regarding a neuro-ophthalmic curriculum for NFL officials. We then provide an overview our current visualization engineering process in taking real-life NFL gameplay 2D data and creating 3D environments for virtual reality gameplay training for football officials to practice plays that highlight neuro-ophthalmic principles. We then review in-depth the physiology behind these principles and discuss strategies to implement these principles into virtual reality for football officiating.
Investigation of Non-Uniform Inflow Effects on Impeller Forces in Axial-Flow Pumps Operating as Turbines
Authors: Kan Kan , Zhang Qingying , Xu Hui , Feng Jiangang , Song Zhenguo , Cheng Jianping , Binama Maxime
Published: May 2024

Due to the existence of an inlet elbow, transmission shaft, and other structural components, the inflow of axial-flow pumps as turbines (PATs) becomes non-uniform, resulting in the complexity of internal flow and adverse effects such as structural vibration. In this paper, numerical methods were employed to explore the non-uniform inflow effects on impeller forces and internal flow field characteristics within an axial-flow PAT. The study results indicated that non-uniform inflow caused uneven pressure distribution inside the impeller, which leads to an imbalance in radial forces and offsetting the center of radial forces. With an increasing flow rate, the asymmetry of radial forces as well as the amplitude of their fluctuations increased. Non-uniform inflow was found to induce unstable flow structures inside the impeller, leading to low-frequency, high-amplitude pressure fluctuations near the hub. Using the enstrophy transport equation, it was shown that the relative vortex generation term played a major part in the spatiotemporal evolution of vortices, with minimal viscous effects.
Advances in Hydrodynamics of Water Pump Station System
Authors: Ye Changliang , Zheng Yuan , Kan Kan , Tao Ran , Chen Huixiang
Published: May 2024

As an indispensable part of water conservancy engineering construction, the importance of pumping stations is reflected in several aspects [...]
Research on Multi-Factor Effects of Nitrogen Loss in Slope Runoff
Authors: Wang Lei , Wang Na , Zhang Qing , Wu Jiajun , Wang Shilei , Pang Min , Wang Jifeng , Zhou Chao , Han Yehui , Yang Zhixin , Jin Liang
Published: May 2024

To study the characteristics of nitrogen (N) loss on slopes, different vegetation (bare soil, alfalfa), slopes (5°, 10°, 15°), and rainfall intensities (40, 60, 80 mm/h) were set as variable factors in simulated rainfall experiments. Surface runoff accounts for 60.38–96.16% of total runoff and most N loss (57.69–88.67% of NO3−-N). Alfalfa can reduce average concentrations of N loss in runoff and reduce N loss in surface runoff by more than 48.29%, as well as subsurface runoff by 3.8%. Average N loss in subsurface runoff exceeds that of surface runoff. Rainfall intensity most affects N loss from surface runoff in bare soil conditions, and slope most affects N loss in subsurface runoff. Rainfall intensity in alfalfa treatments most influences runoff volume and N loss. The comprehensive effects of rainfall intensity, slope, and vegetation cover on the total loss of various forms of nitrogen in surface runoff can be described using a linear correlation equation, with a correlation coefficient between 0.84 and 0.91.
Research on Salt Drainage Efficiency and Anti-Siltation Effect of Subsurface Drainage Pipes with Different Filter Materials
Authors: Wang Xu , Shen Jingli , Fan Liqin , Zhang Yonghong
Published: May 2024

Subsurface pipes covered with geotextiles and filters are essential for preventing clogging and ensuring efficient drainage. To address low salt discharge efficiency due to subsurface drainage pipes (SDPs) clogging easily, sand gravel, straw, and combined sand gravel–straw were set above SDPs, respectively, within a setting of uniform geotextiles. The influences of different filter materials on the drainage efficiency and salt discharge effect of the SDPs, as well as the effects of different filter materials on the salt drainage efficiency and anti-siltation effect of the SDPs were studied by performing simulation experiments in a laboratory. The results confirmed the following: (1) The salt removal rates of the SDPs externally wrapped with materials exceeded 95%. The subsurface pipe treated with the sand gravel filter material had the highest desalting rate (93.69%) and soil profiles with total salt contents that were 17.7% and 20.5% lower than those treated with the straw and combined sand gravel–straw materials, respectively. (2) The soil salinity of the sand gravel filter material around the SDPs was between 1.57 and 3.6 g/kg, and the drainage rate (R) was 0.97, so its salt-leaching effect was the best. (3) The sand gravel filter material increased the characteristic particle size of the soil above the SDP by 8.4%. It could effectively intercept coarse particles, release fine particles, and facilitate the formation of a highly permeable soil skeleton consisting of coarse particles, such as sand particles surrounding the soil. (4) The use of the straw filter material produced dense filter cake layers on the upstream surfaces of the geotextiles. When the sand gravel and combined sand gravel–straw filter materials were used, soil particles remained in the geotextile fiber structure, and a large number of pores were still retained. Therefore, the sand gravel filter material was the most suitable for the treatment of Yinbei saline–alkali soil in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.
The Occurrence, Distribution, Environmental Effects, and Interactions of Microplastics and Antibiotics in the Aquatic Environment of China
Authors: Guo Yiping , Shao Wanfei , Zhao Weigao , Zhu Hong
Published: May 2024

Microplastics (MPs) and antibiotics (ATs) have been detected in various aquatic environments and characterized as novel contaminants that have attracted worldwide attention. This review summarizes the characteristics of MPs and ATs, analyzes the sources of MPs and ATs in aquatic environments, reviews the concentration distribution of the two pollutants in China, and introduces the environmental effects of mixing MPs and ATs. Studies on single pollutants of MPs or ATs are well established, but the interactions between the two in aquatic environments are rarely mentioned. The physicochemical characteristics of MPs make them carriers of ATs, which greatly increase their risk of being potential hazards to the environment. Therefore, in this article, the interaction mechanisms between MPs and ATs are systematically sorted out, mainly including hydrophobic, electrostatic, intermolecular interactions, microporous filling, charge-assisted hydrogen bonding, cation-bonding, halogen bonding, and CH/π interactions. Also, factors affecting the interaction between ATs and MPs, such as the physicochemical properties of MPs and ATs and environmental factors, are also considered. Finally, this review identifies some new research topics and challenges for MPs and ATs, in order to gain deeper insight into their behavioral fate and toxic mechanisms.
Performance Evaluation of a National Seven-Day Ensemble Streamflow Forecast Service for Australia
Authors: Bari Mohammed Abdul , Hasan Mohammad Mahadi , Amirthanathan Gnanathikkam Emmanual , Hapuarachchi Hapu Arachchige Prasantha , Kabir Aynul , Cornish Alex Daniel , Sunter Patrick , Feikema Paul Martinus
Published: May 2024

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology offers a national operational 7-day ensemble streamflow forecast service covering regions of high environmental, economic, and social significance. This semi-automated service generates streamflow forecasts every morning and is seamlessly integrated into the Bureau’s Hydrologic Forecasting System (HyFS). Ensemble rainfall forecasts, European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), and Poor Man’s Ensemble (PME), available in the Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) suite, are used to generate these streamflow forecasts. The NWP rainfall undergoes pre-processing using the Catchment Hydrologic Pre-Processer (CHyPP) before being fed into the GR4H rainfall–runoff model, which is embedded in the Short-term Water Information Forecasting Tools (SWIFT) hydrological modelling package. The simulated streamflow is then post-processed using Error Representation and Reduction In Stages (ERRIS). We evaluated the performance of the operational rainfall and streamflow forecasts for 96 catchments using four years of operational data between January 2020 and December 2023. Performance evaluation metrics included the following: CRPS, relative CRPS, CRPSS, and PIT-Alpha for ensemble forecasts; NSE, PCC, MAE, KGE, PBias, and RMSE; and three categorical metrics, CSI, FAR, and POD, for deterministic forecasts. The skill scores, CRPS, relative CRPS, CRPSS, and PIT-Alpha, gradually decreased for both rainfall and streamflow as the forecast horizon increased from Day 1 to Day 7. A similar pattern emerged for NSE, KGE, PCC, MAE, and RMSE as well as for the categorical metrics. Forecast performance also progressively decreased with higher streamflow volumes. Most catchments showed positive performance skills, meaning the ensemble forecast outperformed climatology. Both streamflow and rainfall forecast skills varied spatially across the country—they were generally better in the high-runoff-generating catchments, and poorer in the drier catchments situated in the western part of the Great Dividing Range, South Australia, and the mid-west of Western Australia. We did not find any association between the model forecast skill and the catchment area. Our findings demonstrate that the 7-day ensemble streamflow forecasting service is robust and draws great confidence from agencies that use these forecasts to support decisions around water resource management.
RETRACTED: Analysis of Scalable Resonant DC–DC Converter Using GaN Switches for xEV Charging Stations
Authors: Narasipuram Rajanand , Mopidevi Subbarao , Dianov Anton , Tandon Amit
Published: May 2024

In this research, an innovative electric vehicle (EV) charger is designed and presented for xEV charging stations. The key feature of our system is a scalable, interleaved inductor–inductor–capacitor (iL2C) DC-DC converter operation. The proposed system employs two parallel L2C converters with 8-GaN switches on the primary side and a shared rectifier circuit on the secondary side. This configuration not only amplifies the resonant tank internal currents and losses generated by the switches but also improves current sharing. A novel closed-loop technique is proposed with a constant-voltage method of operation, along with a hybrid control scheme of variable frequency + phase shift modulation (VFPSM). To examine the controller and converter’s performance, an experimental demonstration is conducted under varying load conditions, including full load, half load, and light load, where the source voltage and load voltage are maintained at constant levels of 400 Vin and 48 V0, respectively. Furthermore, line regulation is conducted and verified to accommodate a broad input voltage range of 300 Vin–500 Vin and 500 Vin–300 Vin while maintaining an output voltage of 48 V0 at 3.3 kW, 1.65 kW, and 0.33 kW with a peak efficiency of 98.2%.