bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gulf Cooperation Council Countries and Urbanisation: Are Open Government Data Portals Helping?
Authors: Mutambik Ibrahim , Lee John , Almuqrin Abdullah , Alkhanifer Abdulrhman , Baihan Mohammed
Published: August 2023

Today, the concepts of the smart city and smart government are well established, and have become key in dealing with the challenges faced by rapidly increasing urbanisation across the world. One of the many ways in which smart cities and government can help meet these challenges is by empowering citizens to take more and better control of their own decisions, by giving them access to open (i.e., public and unrestricted) data via online portals. These portals can enable citizens and professionals to make more informed decisions across a wide variety of areas, from health and traffic issues to developing new businesses. They can also encourage citizens to become more involved in the making of more effective social policy. Open data is increasingly seen as a key enabler in designing and implementing knowledge-based solutions for more sustainable urban development. For these reasons, as well as others, OGD (Open Government Data) portals are already being implemented in many countries. However, if smart cities are to maximise their potential, OGD portals must be understood, accepted and—crucially—used by the public. The extent to which this is the case is not clear, as there have been few studies that have specifically examined the impact of open data in a smart city context. This is particularly true in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries. This research uses a mixed methods (questionnaires and interviews) approach to examine this issue by carrying out a comparative study of the use of portals across the region and, therefore, whether these countries are making optimum use of open data. An existing evaluation framework was used with a group of evaluators representing professional users who are not experienced in using data portals. The findings of the research suggest that these countries are not yet realising the full potential of their portals, and more effective support for the transition to smart cities could be achieved with fuller and better cross-national cooperation.
Root-Layer Fungi Native to Four Volcanic Topographies on Conserved Ocean Islands: Another Clue to Facilitate Access to Newer Natural Microbial Resources in the Extreme Terrains
Authors: Park Jong Myong , Kwak Tae Won , Hong Ji Won , You Young-Hyun
Published: August 2023

This study hypothesized that geographic segregation of certain extreme natures of the same kind could be an indicator of access to new natural microbial resources. Root-layer fungi and soil properties native to well-conserved volcanic topographies from two geographically segregated ocean volcanic islands beside the Korean Peninsula were analyzed. Four segregated sampling sites that represented the ocean volcanoes’ unique natural characters (tuff layer, caldera, and two steep cliffs) were examined. A total of 1356 operational taxonomic units classified into 7 phyla and 196 genera were obtained. Soil analysis showed that the sand proportion varied from 32.0–57.4%, and silt, 39.4–64.8%. The tuff layer terrain was the only terrain classified as silt soil. Soil Corg contents ranged from 2.78–15.12%; TN, 0.159–0.843; salinity, 0.001–0.019; and pH, 5.0–7.4. The larger the island area, the less oceanic salinity inflow, but TN and Corg decreased, and pH increased. The Shannon diversity index varied from 4.81–5.23 and was higher at the larger or center of larger islands. As geographic segregation (distance) increased, the proportion of taxa commonly identified decreased. Thus, geographic isolation of certain natural features (e.g., volcanic islands) may be a preferential clue to accessing a broader range of potential microbial resources.
Structural Characteristics of the Household Carbon Footprint in an Aging Society
Authors: Long Ying , Feng Jiahao , Sun Aolong , Wang Rui , Wang Yafei
Published: August 2023

The aging population has posed a challenge to China’s carbon neutrality pledge. To study the household carbon footprint in an aging society, this paper has combined the age-specific consumption pattern and environmental input-output life cycle assessment (EIO-LCA) to calculate the carbon footprint of household consumption across age groups, and then identified the key pathways of carbon emissions via structural path analysis (SPA). Results indicate that the elderly contribute 11.65% to total consumption-based carbon emissions. The working group (ages 15–64) has the highest average carbon footprint (0.85 tCO2e), while the elderly group (ages 65 and above) has the lowest average carbon footprint (0.82 tCO2e). Urban households of all ages have a higher carbon footprint than rural households. Housing and food are the dominant sources of the elderly carbon footprint. Notably, the production and distribution of electric power and heat power sector associated with housing energy consumption plays a leading role in the carbon emissions pathways of elderly consumption. Measuring the carbon footprint of older people can support policy designs and decision making in key sectors along the supply chain, and further encourage low-carbon lifestyles among China’s elderly. Additionally, the findings of this study have broad applications, especially for developing countries undergoing demographic transitions.
Land Use Regression Models for Particle Number Concentration and Black Carbon in Lanzhou, Northwest of China
Authors: Fang Shuya , Zhou Tian , Jin Limei , Zhou Xiaowen , Li Xingran , Song Xiaokai , Wang Yufei
Published: August 2023

It is necessary to predict the spatial variation in particle number concentration (PNC) and black carbon (BC) because they are considered air pollutants associated with traffic and many diseases. In this study, land use regression (LUR) models for PNC and BC were developed based on a mobile monitoring campaign in January 2020 in Lanzhou, and the performance of models was evaluated with hold-out validation (HV) and leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV). The results show that the adjusted R2 of the LUR models for PNC and BC are 0.51 and 0.53, respectively. The R2 of HV and LOOCV are 0.43 and 0.44, respectively, for the PNC model and 0.42 and 0.50, respectively, for the BC model. The performances of the LUR models are of a moderate level. The spatial distribution of the predicted PNC is related to the distance from water bodies. The high PNC is related to industrial pollution. The BC concentration decreases from south to north. High BC concentrations are associated with freight distribution centres and coal-fired power plants. The range of PNC particle sizes in this study is larger than in most studies. As one of few studies in Lanzhou to develop LUR models of air pollutants, it is important to accurately estimate pollutant concentrations to improve air quality and provide health benefits for residents.
Regional Big Data Application Capability and Firm Green Technology Innovation
Authors: Cao Guixiang , Fang Xintong , Chen Ying , She Jinghuai
Published: August 2023

This study aims to investigate the impact of regional big data application capability (RBDAC) on the green technology innovation (GTI) of manufacturing firms. Based on the data from Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed manufacturing firms in China from 2010 to 2020, the difference-in-differences method is used for the analysis. The results show that RBDAC can significantly improve the GTI in manufacturing firms. Further research shows that government subsidy and analyst coverage have strengthened the positive effect of RBDAC on GTI. Extensive analysis validates the heterogeneity of RBDAC in influencing the GTI based on financial constraints, tax administration strengths, regions, property rights, and top management team. The economic outcome test shows that RBDAC also improves firms’ environmental, social, and governance performance. Our findings contribute to the literature on big data application capability and GTI, as well as provide practical enlightenment for manufacturing firms to engage in digital and green practices.
Hierarchical Model-Predictive-Control-Based Energy Management Strategy for Fuel Cell Hybrid Commercial Vehicles Incorporating Traffic Information
Authors: Xu Yuguo , Xu Enyong , Zheng Weiguang , Huang Qibai
Published: August 2023

With the development of intelligent transportation systems, access to diverse transportation information has become possible. Integrating this information into an energy management strategy will make the energy allocation prospective and thus improve the overall performance of the energy management program. For this reason, this paper proposes a hierarchical model predictive control (MPC) energy management strategy that incorporates traffic information, where the upper layer plans the vehicle’s velocity based on the traffic information and the lower layer optimizes the energy distribution of the vehicle based on the planned velocity. In order to improve the accuracy of the planning speed of the upper strategy, a dung beetle optimization-radial basis function (DBO-RBF) prediction model is constructed, artfully optimizing the RBF neural network using the dung beetle optimization algorithm. The results show that the prediction accuracy is improved by 13.96% at a prediction length of 5 s. Further, when the vehicle passes through a traffic light intersection, the traffic light information is also considered in the upper strategy to plan a more economical speed and improve the traffic efficiency of the vehicle and traffic utilization. Finally, a dynamic programming (DP)-based solver is designed in the lower layer of the strategy, which optimizes the energy distribution of the vehicle according to the velocity planned by the upper layer to improve the economy of the vehicle. The results demonstrate achieving a noteworthy 3.97% improvement in fuel economy compared to the conventional rule-based energy management strategy and allowing drivers to proceed through red light intersections without stopping. This proves a substantial performance enhancement in energy management strategies resulting from the integration of transportation information.
Application of a Semi-Empirical Approach to Map Maximum Urban Heat Island Intensity in Singapore
Authors: Sanchez Beatriz , Roth Matthias , Patel Pratiman , Simón-Moral Andrés
Published: August 2023

Differences in land surface characteristics across a city produce great spatial and temporal variability in air temperature. This fact is particularly pronounced between urban and surrounding rural areas giving rise to the canopy-layer urban heat island (CL-UHI) phenomenon. In the present study, we apply the dimensional analysis technique to develop a simple semi-empirical equation to map daily maximum CL-UHI (UHImax) intensities during nighttime over the city of Singapore for specific weather conditions. By adopting the methodology proposed by Theeuwes et al., but selecting meteorological and morphological parameters that affect UHImax intensity most for Singapore, evaluation of the developed equation shows good agreement with observations (RMSE = 1.13 K and IOA = 0.76). Model performance depends strongly on wind conditions and is best during weak winds when ‘ideal’ conditions for UHI development are approached (RMSE = 0.65 K and IOA = 0.85). Results using the simple equation developed to map UHImax intensities in Singapore under dry weather conditions are comparable to those obtained from more sophisticated numerical models, which demand significant computational resources, and the complex parameterizations involved require expertise to carry out the simulations. The resulting maps of the present study can be used to investigate less favorable thermal conditions and assess population vulnerability to a certain temperature excess, as well as provide insights for urban planning strategies of mitigation measures according to the land cover and morphology of a location.
Life Cycle Assessment of Composites Additive Manufacturing Using Recycled Materials
Authors: Chatzipanagiotou Konstantina-Roxani , Antypa Despoina , Petrakli Foteini , Karatza Anna , Pikoń Krzysztof , Bogacka Magdalena , Poranek Nikolina , Werle Sebastian , Amanatides Eleftherios , Mataras Dimitrios , Koumoulos Elias P.
Published: August 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) of composite materials is promising to create customizable products with enhanced properties, utilizing materials like carbon fibers (CFs). To increase their circularity, composite recycling has been proposed to re-introduce the recovered components in AM. A careful evaluation of recycling is necessary, considering the sustainability and functionality (i.e., mechanical properties) of the recovered components. Thus, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is applied to estimate the environmental impacts of AM via Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), using virgin or recycled CFs via solvolysis at a laboratory scale. This study aims to provide a detailed Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) of FFF and evaluate the sustainability of using recycled CFs in AM. For both virgin CF manufacturing and CF recycling, electricity consumption was the main contributor to environmental impacts. CF recovery via solvolysis resulted in lower impacts across most impact categories compared to AM with virgin CFs. Different scenarios were examined to account for the mechanical properties of recycled CFs. AM with 75% recycled CFs, compared to 100% virgin CFs undergoing landfilling, resulted in over 22% reduction in climate change potential, even after a 50% loss of recycled CF functionality. Overall, this study offers insights into the LCI of FFF and shows that CF recycling from composites is worth pursuing.
Characterisation of Microstructure and Special Grain Boundaries in LPBF AlSi10Mg Alloy Subjected to the KoBo Extrusion Process
Authors: Snopiński Przemysław , Matus Krzysztof
Published: August 2023

Grain boundary engineering (GBE) enhances the properties of metals by incorporating specific grain boundaries, such as twin boundaries (TB). However, applying conventional GBE to parts produced through additive manufacturing (AM) poses challenges, since it necessitates thermomechanical processing, which is not desirable for near-net-shape parts. This study explores an alternative GBE approach for post-processing bulk additively manufactured aluminium samples (KoBo extrusion), which allows thermo-mechanical treatment in a single operation. The present work was conducted to examine the microstructure evolution and grain boundary character in an additively manufactured AlSi10Mg alloy. Microstructural evolution and grain boundary character were investigated using Electron Back Scattered Diffraction (EBSD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The results show that along with grain refinement, the fraction of Coincidence Site Lattice boundaries was also increased in KoBo post-processed samples. The low-Σ twin boundaries were found to be the most common Coincidence Site Lattice boundaries. On the basis of EBSD analysis, it has been proven that the formation of CSL boundaries is directly related to a dynamic recrystallisation process. The findings show prospects for the possibility of engineering the special grain boundary networks in AM Al–Si alloys, via the KoBo extrusion method. Our results provide the groundwork for devising GBE strategies to produce novel high-performance aluminium alloys.
Decisions of Knowledge Payment Product Supply Chain Considering Government Subsidies and Anti-Piracy Efforts: Based on China’s Knowledge Payment Market
Authors: Liu Lili , Luo Changxin
Published: August 2023

Knowledge payment is an emerging business mode that has developed in the era of social media. With the impact of Internet technology, the knowledge payment market is rapidly expanding, especially in China. However, piracy leads to more intense competition and affects the profits of knowledge providers and knowledge payment platforms. Government policies combined with the anti-piracy measures of these platforms have become effective methods to combat piracy. This paper investigates the impact of government subsidies and anti-piracy efforts on a knowledge provider’s and platform’s optimal decisions. We develop a two-stage knowledge payment product supply chain with a knowledge provider and a knowledge payment platform. The platform in the leader position of the supply chain has anti-piracy efforts and the government subsidizes the platform. Stackelberg game models are constructed and compared to examine the equilibrium solution in relation to three modes (no government subsidies and no anti-piracy efforts; only anti-piracy efforts; and both government subsidies and anti-piracy efforts). Our analysis shows that (1) both government subsidies and anti-piracy efforts increase the quality level and unit quality signing bonus of the knowledge payment product. Meanwhile, the product’s retail price increases with anti-piracy efforts but decreases within a certain subsidy range. (2) The knowledge provider’s profit always increases with the anti-piracy effort level, while the platform’s profit is an inverted U-shaped relationship with the anti-piracy effort level. (3) Government subsidy behavior can always increase a knowledge provider’s profit but may not necessarily increase the platform’s profit. Moreover, there exists a certain threshold: when subsidies are lower (higher) than this threshold, it is more beneficial to the knowledge provider (platform). In addition, we also find that the method of high subsidies combined with a low anti-piracy effort level benefits both parties and that the subsidized party will be more sensitive. The results will provide knowledge providers and platforms with new market management insights from the perspective of government subsidies and anti-piracy efforts and guide them to make optimal decisions.
Endocrine Effect of Some Mycotoxins on Humans: A Clinical Review of the Ways to Mitigate the Action of Mycotoxins
Authors: Kościelecka Klaudia , Kuć Aleksandra , Kubik-Machura Daria , Męcik-Kronenberg Tomasz , Włodarek Jan , Radko Lidia
Published: August 2023

Fungi such as Aspergillus spp. and Fusarium spp., which are commonly found in the environment, pose a serious global health problem. This study aims to present the results of epidemiological studies, including clinical cases, on the relationship between human exposure to some mycotoxins, especially zearalenone and aflatoxin, and the occurrence of reproductive disorders. In addition, examples of methods to reduce human exposure to mycotoxins are presented. In March 2023, various databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE and Web of Science) were systematically searched using Google Chrome to identify studies evaluating the association between exposure to mycotoxins and the occurrence of complications related to impaired fertility or cancer incidence. The analysed data indicate that exposure to the evaluated mycotoxins is widespread and correlates strongly with precocious puberty, reduced fertility and increased cancer incidence in women and men worldwide. There is evidence to suggest that exposure to the Aspergillus mycotoxin aflatoxin (AF) during pregnancy can impair intrauterine foetal growth, promote neonatal jaundice and cause perinatal death and preterm birth. In contrast, exposure to the Fusarium mycotoxin zearalenone (ZEA) leads to precocious sexual development, infertility, the development of malformations and the development of breast cancer. Unfortunately, the development of methods (biological, chemical or physical) to completely eliminate exposure to mycotoxins has limited practical application. The threat to human health from mycotoxins is real and further research is needed to improve our knowledge and specific public health interventions.
Aluminosilicates as a Double-Edged Sword: Adsorption of Aflatoxin B1 and Sequestration of Essential Trace Minerals in an In Vitro Gastrointestinal Poultry Model
Authors: Hernández-Martínez Sara , Delgado-Cedeño Armando , Ramos-Zayas Yareellys , Franco-Molina Moisés , Méndez-Zamora Gerardo , Marroquín-Cardona Alicia , Kawas Jorge
Published: August 2023

Aflatoxins can cause intoxication and poisoning in animals and humans. Among these molecules, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most dangerous because of its carcinogenic and mutagenic properties. To mitigate these effects, clay adsorbents are commonly included in the diet of animals to adsorb the carcinogens and prevent their absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. In this study, four clays, three smectites (C-1, C-2, and C-3), and one zeolite (C-4), were compared as adsorbents of AFB1 and trace inorganic nutrients using an in vitro gastrointestinal model for poultry. Characterization of the clays using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed characteristic bands of smectites in C-1, C-2, and C-3 (stretching vibrations of Si-O, Al-O-Si, and Si-O-Si). The C-4 presented bands related to the bending vibration of structural units (Si-O-Si and Al-O-Si). X-ray diffraction analysis showed that C-1 is a montmorillonite, C-2 is a beidellite, C-3 is a beidellite-Ca-montmorillonite, and C-4 is a clinoptilolite. The elemental compositions of the clays showed alumina, silica, iron, calcium, and sodium contents. The cation exchange capacity was higher in C-3 clay (60.2 cmol(+)/kg) in contrast with the other clays. The AFB1 adsorption of C-1 was the highest (99.5%; p ˂ 0.001), followed by C-2 (92.02%). However, all the clays also sequestered trace inorganic nutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Se). Both smectites, montmorillonite and beidellite, were the most suitable for use as adsorbents of AFB1.
Factors Associated with COVID-19 Vaccine Refusal: A Community-Based Study in the Menoua Division in Cameroon
Authors: Tetsatsi Aimé Césaire Momo , Nguena Astride Arolle , Deutou Andrillene Laure , Talom Alaric Tamuedjoun , Metchum Beatrice Talom , Tiotsia Armand Tsapi , Watcho Pierre , Colizzi Vittorio
Published: August 2023

COVID-19, which was named in March 2020 as a global pandemic by the WHO, remains a serious public health threat worldwide. Despite the adoption of vaccines as an effective strategy to counter this pandemic, the vaccination rate in Cameroon is far lower than that planned by the Cameroonian government and its partners. The main objective of this study was to determine the factors limiting COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in the Menoua Division in the West Region of Cameroon. A community-based cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted between March and April 2022 in the Menoua Division. A pre-tested questionnaire was filled out by willing participants of more than 18 years old, and data were further expressed in order to estimate the knowledge of participants on COVID-19, vaccine status, and the factors associated with vaccine refusal. A Pearson test was performed in order to identify the associated factors, with a p-value < 0.05 considered as significant. A total of 520 participants with a mean age of 33.27 ± 12.78 were included. Most had a secondary education level (56.15%), and trade and informal sectors (34.04%) were the main occupations. Knowledge on COVID-19 was average, and it was significantly associated (p < 0.05) with gender and education level. The vaccination rate was 10%, which was six times less than the national target. A lack of information, confidence, and medicinal plant use were all factors significantly associated with vaccine refusal. This pioneer community-based study in Cameroon identified a lack of knowledge, confidence, and medicinal plant use as the leading factors limiting COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Cameroon. Health authorities should therefore strengthen sensitization in order to tackle the lack of information and the misinformation among the target groups.
Asymptotic States and S-Matrix Operator in de Sitter Ambient Space Formalism
Authors: Takook Mohammad Vahid , Gazeau Jean-Pierre , Huguet Eric
Published: August 2023

Within the de Sitter ambient space framework, the two different bases of the one-particle Hilbert space of the de Sitter group algebra are presented for the scalar case. Using field operator algebra and its Fock space construction in this formalism, we discuss the existence of asymptotic states in de Sitter QFT under an extension of the adiabatic hypothesis and prove the Fock space completeness theorem for the massive scalar field. We define the quantum state in the limit of future and past infinity on the de Sitter hyperboloid in an observer-independent way. These results allow us to examine the existence of the S-matrix operator for de Sitter QFT in ambient space formalism, a question which is usually obscure in spacetime with a cosmological event horizon for a specific observer. Some similarities and differences between QFT in Minkowski and de Sitter spaces are discussed.
Implications of the DLMA Solution of θ12 for IceCube Data Using Different Astrophysical Sources
Authors: Ghosh Monojit , Goswami Srubabati , Pan Supriya , Pavlović Bartol
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we study the implications of the Dark Large Mixing Angle (DLMA) solutions of θ12 in the context of the IceCube data. We study the consequences in the measurement of the neutrino oscillation parameters, namely the octant of θ23 and δCP in light of both Large Mixing Angle (LMA) and DLMA solutions of θ12. We find that it will be impossible for IceCube to determine the δCP and the true nature of θ12, i.e., LMA or DLMA, at the same time. This is because of the existence of an intrinsic degeneracy at the Hamiltonian level between these parameters. Apart from that, we also identify a new degeneracy between θ23 and two solutions of θ12 for a fixed value of δCP. We perform a chi-square fit using three different astrophysical sources, i.e., μ source, π source, and n source, to find that both μ source and π source are allowed within 1σ, whereas the n source is excluded at 2σ. It is difficult to make any conclusion regarding the measurement of θ23, δCP for μ source. However, the π (n) source prefers the higher (lower) octant of θ23 for both LMA and DLMA solution of θ12. The best-fit value of δCP is around 180∘ (0∘/360∘) for the LMA (DLMA) solution of θ12, whereas for the DLMA (LMA) solution of θ12, the best-fit value is around 0∘/360∘ (180∘) for the π (n) source. If we assume the current best-fit values of θ23 and δCP to be true, then the μ and π sources prefer the LMA solution of θ12, whereas the n source prefers the DLMA solution of θ12.
A Novel Variant of Avian Reovirus Is Pathogenic to Vaccinated Chickens
Authors: Liu Rui , Luo Dan , Gao Jinhui , Li Kai , Liu Changjun , Qi Xiaole , Cui Hongyu , Zhang Yanping , Wang Suyan , Wang Xiaomei , Gao Yulong , Gao Li
Published: August 2023

Avian reovirus (ARV) infections, characterized by severe arthritis, tenosynovitis, pericarditis, and poor weight gain, have become increasingly serious in recent years. The economic impact is significant as it causes growth inhibition and immunosuppression. Some commercial poultry in China have been widely vaccinated with available ARV vaccines; however, infections continue to occur even after vaccination. This study aimed to isolate a novel variant, ARV-SD19/11103, from the joint tissues of infected broiler chickens vaccinated with ARV vaccines in Shandong Province. Genetic evolution analysis of the major protective antigen σC gene in ARVs showed that ARV-SD19/11103 was located in the genotype cluster I but not in the same sub-cluster as the S1133 vaccine strain. The amino acid sequence similarity between SD19/11103 and vaccine strains S1133, 1733, and 2408 was <80%. After analyzing the amino acid sequences of the σC protein, 33 amino acid differences were found between the new variant isolate and the vaccine strains. This novel variant showed obvious pathogenicity in specific pathogen-free chicken embryos and chicks and could cause serious disease in chickens vaccinated with commercially available ARV vaccines. Cross-neutralization experiments further demonstrated a significant antigenic difference between the novel variant and genotype cluster I ARV strains. The novel variant strain isolated in this study provides an important theoretical basis for understanding the prevalence and genetic evolutionary characteristics of ARV variant strains in our country. This study identified the causes of ARVs circulating and emphasizes the needs for developing new vaccines against novel ARV variants.
Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake in The Netherlands: A Nationwide Registry-Based Study
Authors: Pijpers Joyce , van Roon Annika , van Roekel Caren , Labuschagne Lisanne , Smagge Bente , Ferreira José A. , de Melker Hester , Hahné Susan
Published: August 2023

By September 2022, the uptake of at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine in the Dutch adult population was 84%. Ecological studies have indicated a lower uptake in certain population groups. We aimed to investigate determinants of COVID-19 vaccine uptake in the Netherlands at individual level to evaluate and optimize implementation of the vaccination program and generate hypotheses for research on drivers of, and barriers to, vaccination. A retrospective database study was performed including the entire Dutch population ≥ 18. Vaccination data (5 January 2021–18 November 2021) were at individual levels linked to sociodemographic data. Random forest analyses ranked sociodemographic determinants of COVID-19 vaccine uptake. The most important determinant was age; uptake increased until the age of 80 (67% in 18–35 years, 92% in 67–79 years, and 88% in those > 80). Personal income and socioeconomic position ranked second and third, followed by migration status. Uptake was lower among individuals in the lowest income group (69%), those receiving social benefits (56%), and individuals with two parents born abroad (59%). Our finding that age is the most important determinant for uptake likely reflects the prioritisation of elderly in the programme and the general understanding of their increased vulnerability. However, our findings also reveal important other disparities in vaccine uptake. How to best address this inequity in future vaccination campaigns requires further research.
Immunogenicity and Safety of Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) Vaccine—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Nave Lior , Margalit Ili , Tau Noam , Cohen Ido , Yelin Dana , Lienert Florian , Yahav Dafna
Published: August 2023

Prevention of mpox has become an important public health interest. We aimed to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of the Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vaccine. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) comparing MVA versus no intervention, placebo, or another vaccine. Outcomes included safety and immunogenicity outcomes. We also performed a systematic review of RCTs evaluating various MVA regimens. Fifteen publications were included in the quantitative meta-analysis. All but one (ACAM2000) compared MVA with placebo. We found that cardiovascular adverse events following two MVA doses were significantly more common compared to placebo (relative risk [RR] 4.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10–15.10), though serious adverse events (SAEs) were not significantly different. Following a single MVA dose, no difference was demonstrated in any adverse event outcomes. Seroconversion rates were significantly higher compared with placebo after a single or two doses. None of the RCTs evaluated clinical effectiveness in preventing mpox. This meta-analysis provides reassuring results concerning the immunogenicity and safety of MVA. Further studies are needed to confirm the immunogenicity of a single dose and its clinical effectiveness. A single vaccine dose may be considered according to vaccine availability, with preference for two doses.
Humoral Immunity in Immunosuppressed IBD Patients after the Third SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination: A Comparison with Healthy Control Subjects
Authors: Vollenberg Richard , Lorentzen Eva Ulla , Kühn Joachim , Nowacki Tobias Max , Meier Jörn Arne , Trebicka Jonel , Tepasse Phil-Robin
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic is a result of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Vaccination against COVID-19 is crucial for preventing severe illness and controlling the pandemic. This study aimed to examine how immunosuppressed patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) responded to the third mRNA vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. The patients were undergoing treatments such as anti-TNF (infliximab, adalimumab), anti-α4ß7 integrin (vedolizumab), anti-IL12/23 (ustekinumab) and azathioprine (purine analog). Their responses were compared to those of healthy individuals. Methods: In this prospective study, 81 IBD patients and 15 healthy controls were enrolled 2–4 months after receiving the third mRNA vaccination. This study measured IgG antibody levels against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein’s receptor binding domain (RBD) and assessed potential neutralization capacity using a surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT). Results: Overall, immunosuppressed IBD patients (without SARS-CoV-2 infection) exhibited significantly lower levels of anti-S-IgG (anti-RBD-IgG) and binding inhibition in the sVNT after the third vaccination compared to healthy controls. Patients under anti-TNF therapy showed notably reduced anti-S-IgG levels after the booster vaccination, in contrast to those receiving ustekinumab and azathioprine (p = 0.030, p = 0.031). IBD patients on anti-TNF therapy demonstrated significantly increased anti-S-IgG levels following prior SARS-CoV-2 infection (p = 0.020). Conclusion: Even after the third vaccination, immunosuppressed IBD patients exhibited diminished humoral immunity compared to healthy controls, especially those on anti-TNF therapy. Cases of penetrating infections led to considerably higher antibody levels in IBD patients under anti-TNF therapy compared to uninfected patients. Further investigation through prospective studies in immunosuppressed IBD patients is needed to determine whether this effectively safeguards against future infections or severe disease.
Immune Response after SARS-CoV-2 Infection with Residual Post-COVID Symptoms
Authors: Pongkunakorn Tanyaporn , Manosan Thamonwan , Surawit Apinya , Ophakas Suphawan , Mongkolsucharitkul Pichanun , Pumeiam Sureeporn , Suta Sophida , Pinsawas Bonggochpass , Sookrung Nitat , Saelim Nawannaporn , Mahasongkram Kodchakorn , Prangtaworn Pannathee , Tungtrongchitr Anchalee , Tangjittipokin Watip , Mangmee Suthee , Boonnak Kobporn , Narkdontri Tassanee , Teerawattanapong Nipaporn , Wanitphadeedecha Rungsima , Mayurasakorn Korapat
Published: August 2023

Many patients develop post-acute COVID syndrome (long COVID (LC)). We compared the immune response of LC and individuals with post-COVID full recovery (HC) during the Omicron pandemic. Two hundred ninety-two patients with confirmed COVID infections from January to May 2022 were enrolled. We observed anti-SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain immunoglobulin G, surrogate virus neutralization test, T cell subsets, and neutralizing antibodies against Wuhan, BA.1, and BA.5 viruses (NeuT). NeuT was markedly reduced against BA.1 and BA.5 in HC and LC groups, while antibodies were more sustained with three doses and an updated booster shot than ≤2-dose vaccinations. The viral neutralization ability declined at >84-days after COVID-19 onset (PC) in both groups. PD1-expressed central and effector memory CD4+ T cells, and central memory CD8+ T cells were reduced in the first months PC in LC. Therefore, booster vaccines may be required sooner after the most recent infection to rescue T cell function for people with symptomatic LC.
Correction: Quinn et al. GlnH, a Novel Antigen That Offers Partial Protection against Verocytotoxigenic Escherichia coli Infection. Vaccines 2023, 11, 175
Authors: Quinn Conor , Tomás-Cortázar Julen , Ofioritse Oritsejolomi , Cosgrave Joanne , Purcell Claire , McAloon Catherine , Frost Susanna , McClean Siobhán
Published: August 2023

In the original publication [...]
Vaccination Utilization and Subnational Inequities during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Interrupted Time-Series Analysis of Administrative Data across 12 Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Mwinnyaa George , Peters Michael A. , Shapira Gil , Neill Rachel , Sadat Husnia , Yuma Sylvain , Akilimali Pierre , Hossain Shahadat , Wendrad Naod , Atiwoto Wisdom K. , Ofosu Anthony Adofo , Alfred Jean Patrick , Kiarie Helen , Wesseh Chea Sanford , Isokpunwu Chris , Kangbai Desmond Maada , Mohamed Abdifatah Ahmed , Sidibe Kadidja , Drouard Salome’ , Fernandez Pablo Amor , Azais Viviane , Hashemi Tawab , Hansen Peter M. , Ahmed Tashrik
Published: August 2023

Background: During and after the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic, many countries experienced declines in immunization that have not fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels. This study uses routine health facility immunization data to estimate variability between and within countries in post-pandemic immunization service recovery for BCG, DPT1, and DPT3. Methods: After adjusting for data reporting completeness and outliers, interrupted time series regression was used to estimate the expected immunization service volume for each subnational unit, using an interruption point of March 2020. We assessed and compared the percent deviation of observed immunizations from the expected service volume for March 2020 between and within countries. Results: Six countries experienced significant service volume declines for at least one vaccine as of October 2022. The shortfall in BCG service volume was ~6% (95% CI −1.2%, −9.8%) in Guinea and ~19% (95% CI −16%, 22%) in Liberia. Significant cumulative shortfalls in DPT1 service volume are observed in Afghanistan (−4%, 95% CI −1%, −7%), Ghana (−3%, 95% CI −1%, −5%), Haiti (−7%, 95% CI −1%, −12%), and Kenya (−3%, 95% CI −1%, −4%). Afghanistan has the highest percentage of subnational units reporting a shortfall of 5% or higher in DPT1 service volume (85% in 2021 Q1 and 79% in 2020 Q4), followed by Bangladesh (2020 Q1, 83%), Haiti (80% in 2020 Q2), and Ghana (2022 Q2, 75%). All subnational units in Bangladesh experienced a 5% or higher shortfall in DPT3 service volume in the second quarter of 2020. In Haiti, 80% of the subnational units experienced a 5% or higher reduction in DPT3 service volume in the second quarter of 2020 and the third quarter of 2022. Conclusions: At least one region in every country has a significantly lower-than-expected post-pandemic cumulative volume for at least one of the three vaccines. Subnational monitoring of immunization service volumes using disaggregated routine health facility information data should be conducted routinely to target the limited vaccination resources to subnational units with the highest inequities.
Enhancing Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations Prediction in Water Bodies: A Temporal Transformer Approach with Multi-Site Meteorological Data Graph Embedding
Authors: Wang Hongqing , Zhang Lifu , Wu Rong , Zhao Hongying
Published: August 2023

Water ecosystems are highly sensitive to environmental conditions, including meteorological factors, which influence dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations, a critical indicator of water quality. However, the complex relationships between multiple meteorological factors from various sites and DO concentrations pose a significant challenge for accurate prediction. This study introduces an innovative framework for enhancing DO concentration predictions in water bodies by integrating multi-station meteorological data. We first construct a dynamic meteorological graph with station-specific factors as node features and geographic distances as edge weights. This graph is processed using a Geo-Contextual Graph Embedding Module, leveraging a Graph Convolutional Network (GCN) to distill geographical and meteorological features from multi-station data. Extracted features are encoded and then temporally merged with historical DO values to form time-series data. Finally, a Temporal Transformer module is used for future DO concentration predictions. The proposed model shows superior performance compared to traditional methods, successfully capturing the complex relationships between meteorological factors and DO levels. It provides an effective tool for environmental scientists and policymakers in water quality monitoring and management. This study suggests that the integration of graph-based learning and a Temporal Transformer in environmental modeling is a promising direction for future research.
Experimental Investigation of Breach Mechanism for Overtopped Cohesive and Non-Cohesive Embankments
Authors: Verma Deepak , Berwal Parveen , Gupta Nakul , Alfaisal Faisal M. , Khan Mohammad Amir , Alam Shamshad , Qadri Jibran
Published: August 2023

The failure of an embankment causes loss of lives, massive damage to infrastructure and the interruption of basic facilities; it has thus drawn increasing attention from researchers. When compared to other types of embankment disasters, overtopping-related embankment breaches are much more frequent. The study of the breach mechanism of embankments due to overtopping is becoming more and more essential for developing evacuation plans, early warning systems and damage assessment. To recognize the breach activities of embankments, it is necessary to find out discrete breach considerations like breach depth, breach initiation, breach width, etc. In the present study, a total of six tests were performed in a narrow flume using an embankment model. By conducting different experiments, it was observed that embankment breaching may be described in three stages, i.e., initial erosion, headcut erosion and lateral erosion. Furthermore, erosion is a three-dimensional process that occurs during embankment breaching, with the majority of erosion movement being associated with lateral broadening. The rate of headcut migration also has an impact on the widening rate. Furthermore, it depends upon the type of fill material and dam geometry. Also, the observed effect of moisture content on breach widening proved that the rate of widening was strongly influenced by water content. A drop of about 50% in moisture content causes approximately a 20% decrease in time to failure. In the present study, it is observed that breach shape could not be assumed to be regular shape like rectangle or trapezoid, as described in the literature. The trials were carried out in a narrow flume under constant hydraulic conditions, which are two of the study’s limitations.
Enhancing Sustainable Urban Planning through GIS and Multiple-Criteria Decision Analysis: A Case Study of Green Space Infrastructure in Taif Province, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Waheeb Sahl Abdullah , Zerouali Bilel , Elbeltagi Ahmed , Alwetaishi Mamdooh , Wong Yong Jie , Bailek Nadjem , AlSaggaf Ahmad Ameen , Abd Elrahman Sahar I. M. , Santos Celso Augusto Guimarães , Majrashi Abdulrahman Abdulaziz
Published: August 2023

Ecotourism in Saudi Arabia (KSA) is gaining significant attention due to the country’s diverse natural landscapes, rich biodiversity, and efforts to preserve and display its environmental treasures. This study presents a comprehensive assessment of urban green space (UGS) suitability in the Taif region of Saudi Arabia using a geographic information system (GIS) combined with a multiple-criteria decision-analysis-based analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The integration of various morphologic, topographic, climatic, and land use/land change (LULC) maps provided a robust framework for evaluating the suitability of UGSs. In the framework of this study, ten criteria were used to elaborate on UGS suitability. The results indicate that distance to water, distance to road, rainfall, and LULC were the most influential criteria in determining UGS suitability. Distance to road emerged as the most significant criterion, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and visibility for attracting the public to green spaces. The Taif region demonstrated fair suitability for UGS development across 56.4% of its total area. However, large areas of barren land in the central and northeastern parts were rendered unsuitable for UGS development, while the southwestern part showed higher percentages of good and excellent suitability. This study highlights the importance of considering the visibility and awareness aspects of UGS planning, as it serves as a visual reminder of the value of nature in urban settings. The results obtained by this research may help managers and decision makers with future planning for GI areas in the Taif region.
Assessment of River Regime of Chenab River in Post-Chiniot Dam Project Scenario
Authors: AbdulJaleel Yasir , Munawar Saleem , Sarwar Muhammad Kaleem , Haq Faraz Ul , Ahmad Khawaja Bilal
Published: August 2023

Dams and reservoirs trap most sediments, and clear water can cause downstream riverbed degradation or aggradation. As a result, the river adjusts its dynamics and channel geometry to regain equilibrium between sediment supply and transport capacity. This study aimed to assess the river regime of the Chenab River in the post-Chiniot Dam Project scenario using a one-dimensional numerical model. After calibration and validation using historic flows and river surveys, simulations were carried out for 5, 10, and 30 years. The sediment model was validated with Brune’s curve, which showed a Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency value of 0.734. The results showed that the river experienced continuous degradation of sediments for the first 16 years and showed a maximum erosion of 8 m at 680 m downstream of the dam. The reach experienced aggradation at 15 km downstream of the dam for the first 10 years and then became stable and showed a maximum deposition of 0.9 m. The ratio of sediments passed through the dam to sediments transported out of reach varied from 0.833 to 0.921, showing that the river reach would continue to attain equilibrium even after 30 years of reservoir operation. The study would be helpful for the prediction of possible future changes in the Chenab River.
Integrating the Theory of Planned Behavior and Motivation to Explore Residential Water-Saving Behaviors
Authors: Gibson Kristin E. , Lamm Alexa J. , Lamm Kevan W. , Holt Jessica
Published: August 2023

Water scarcity in the United States needs to be addressed with demand- and supply-side initiatives. Yet, water is often provided for a low cost to households in residential areas that have the potential to reduce water consumption. The theory of planned behavior (TpB) is a social science theory used to understand why volitional conservation behaviors, including water conservation, are performed by consumers. Additional predictors are included in TpB in water literature, and motivations for behavioral actions may help further explain residential water conservation behavior. This study sought to determine whether TpB and motivation predicted residential water conservation behavior. Data were collected with an online survey (n = 907) in September 2022 from residents of Florida, Georgia, and Alabama using non-probability opt-in quota sampling. The data were analyzed in R using the lavaan package. The results indicate that there was a significant direct effect of attitude and subjective norms on intention. There was a significant direct effect of intention on behavior. There was a significant negative direct effect of extrinsic motivation on behavior. Mediation was present in the model with intrinsic motivation. Perhaps the respondents had not thought about rewards or punishments in the context of water conservation because of the availability of water at a low cost and therefore were not extrinsically motivated to conserve water.