bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Objective Disassembly Depth Optimization for End-of-Life Smartphones Considering the Overall Safety of the Disassembly Process
Authors: Chen Zepeng , Li Lin , Chu Xiaojing , Yin Fengfu , Li Huaqing
Published: January 2024

The disassembly of end-of-life (EoL) products is of high concern in sustainability research. It is important to obtain reasonable disassembly depth during the disassembly process. However, the overall safety of the disassembly process is not considered during the disassembly depth optimization process, which leads to an inability to accurately obtain a reasonable disassembly depth. Considering this, a multi-objective disassembly depth optimization method for EoL smartphones considering the overall safety of the disassembly process is proposed to accurately determine a reasonable disassembly depth in this study. The feasible disassembly depth for EoL smartphones is first determined. The reasonable disassembly process for EoL smartphones is then established. A multi-objective function for disassembly depth optimization for EoL smartphones is established based on the disassembly profit per unit time, the disassembly energy consumption per unit time and the overall safety rate of the disassembly process. In order to increase solution accuracy and avoid local optimization, an improved teaching–learning-based optimization algorithm (ITLBO) is proposed. The overall safety of the disassembly process, disassembly time, disassembly energy consumption and disassembly profit are used as the criteria for the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to evaluate the disassembly depth solution. A case of the ‘Xiaomi 4’ smartphone is used to verify the applicability of the proposed method. The results show that the searchability of the non-inferior solution and the optimal solution of the proposed method are improved. The convergence speeds of the ITLBO algorithm are 50.00%, 33.33% and 30.43% higher than those of the TLBO algorithm, and the optimal solution values of the ITLBO algorithm are 3.91%, 5.10% and 3.45% higher than those of the TLBO algorithm in three experiments of single objective optimization.
The Impact of Drying and Storage on the Characteristics of Two-Phase Olive Pomace
Authors: Christofi Andreas , Fella Panagiota , Agapiou Agapios , Barampouti Elli Maria , Mai Sofia , Moustakas Konstantinos , Loizidou Maria
Published: January 2024

Two-phase olive pomace is a byproduct of the olive-oil extraction process that is sometimes processed further to recover more oil. During pomace oil production, especially in the early stages of olive processing, odours can be produced. These odours are a serious nuisance, especially in and around the processing facilities, as well as for nearby communities. These odours can be strong and unpleasant, and they may result in various issues, including environmental concerns. Thus, in this paper, the effect of storage and drying on the composition of two-phase olive pomace was investigated. Several physicochemical and instrumental analyses were performed, and it was concluded that the structural elements of pomace are not the ones that are affected during storage and drying. Storage and drying mainly impact the oil content of pomace, leading to an acidity increase and to the production of odorous oxidation compounds. Volatile acids, methyl, and ethyl esters are released into the atmosphere, thus causing serious environmental nuisance.
An Intelligent Automatic Sea Forecasting System Targeting Specific Areas on Sailing Routes
Authors: Jian Jun , Sun Zheng , Sun Kai
Published: January 2024

Sailing vessel navigators always want to receive state-of-the-art prompt and accurate marine weather-forecasting services. However, the weather-routing services by private sectors are expensive. Further, forecasting results from public institutes are usually free, and they are not in real-time or numerical modes, so they are not quite suitable for small-size or offshore vessels. In this study, an intelligent system was constructed for delivering sea forecasting at specific areas according to the navigator’s order. The system can automatically obtain web-based forecasting charts issued from multi-source meteorological agencies and convert the regional information into numerical text at requested points. During this step, several intelligent algorithms, like the OpenCV digital image processing algorithm and the YOLO wind vector deep learning recognition method, were applied. By applying this state-of-the-art system, navigators on board do not need to download different institutional graphics (usually with large stream bytes) to explore the future states of the sea surface in a specific area in the sailing route but can obtain the multi-source text forecasting information just by sending the area coordinates to a designated email address. The field tests confirmed that this auto-intelligent system could assist the navigator within a few minutes and thus greatly enhance the navigation safety with minor text-based communication costs. It is expected that by improving the efficiency of marine services and bringing in more artificial intelligence technology, maritime security would be more sustainable.
Optimizing Electric Vehicle Integration with Vehicle-to-Grid Technology: The Influence of Price Difference and Battery Costs on Adoption, Profits, and Green Energy Utilization
Authors: Li Jiashun , Li Aixing
Published: January 2024

Over the past decade, the widespread adoption of global green energy has emerged as a predominant trend. However, renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, face significant wastage due to challenges in energy storage. Electric vehicles (EVs) are considered an effective solution to address the energy storage dilemma. “Vehicle-to-grid” (V2G) technology, allowing vehicles to feed electricity into the grid, enhances the efficiency of renewable energy utilization. This paper proposes an electric vehicle game model that comprehensively considers user choices, corporate profits, and green energy utilization. The model, based on difference in prices, electricity rates, and fuel prices, establishes user utility models to determine optimal driving distances and driving decisions. It separately formulates the maximum profit functions for selling conventional electric cars and V2G electric cars, deriving optimal pricing for enterprises and user adoption rates. The research findings indicate that when price difference can offset V2G battery costs, increasing price difference and reducing battery costs effectively enhance electric vehicle adoption rates, increase corporate profits, and improve green energy utilization. Moreover, compared to conventional electric vehicles, V2G electric vehicles demonstrate a comparative advantage, with the implementation of V2G expanding corporate profits and green energy utilization. Validation using Chinese data reveals that when price difference can offset V2G battery costs, drivers are more inclined to choose V2G electric vehicles. Both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and V2G electric vehicles exhibit adoption rates that can increase by over 35%. This study provides theoretical and model support for the future development of V2G and policy formulation, underscoring the comparative advantages of V2G in enhancing green energy utilization efficiency. Additionally, this study offers valuable insights as a reference for business models in the V2G electric vehicle industry.
A Study on the Performance of Asphalt Modified by Desulfurized Waste Rubber/Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Composite with Additives
Authors: Song Hao , Zhou Tao , Luo Yuxin , Wang Cheng , Zhang Hong
Published: January 2024

The recycling of waste tires avoids the environmental hazards of landfills and incineration, and its application in asphalt modification achieves resource sustainability. Currently, desulfurized rubber powder (DRP) is widely used as an asphalt modifier, mainly mixed with SBS, and fewer studies have been conducted on high-dose asphalt modification with ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). In this paper, DR/EVA-composite-modified asphalt (DR/EVACMA) was prepared using 20% DRP and 4% EVA by adding four additives: furfural extract oil (FEO), a crosslinking agent (DCP), a vulcanizing agent (sulfur), and a silane coupling agent (KH-550). The aim was to study the effects of different additives on the physical properties, storage stability, and rheological properties of asphalt. First, conventional physical property measurements were carried out, and the data were analyzed using a polar analysis to determine the degree of influence of the four additives and the optimal ratios. Then, the rheological properties and fatigue resistance of DR/EVACMA were investigated through temperature scanning experiments, linear amplitude scanning (LAS) experiments, and multi-stress creep (MSCR) experiments. Finally, the reaction mechanism and microscopic properties were analyzed through infrared spectroscopy experiments (FTIR) and fluorescence microscopy (FM). The results showed that FEO had the greatest effect on asphalt characteristics. Compared to matrix asphalt and additive-free asphalt, DR/EVACMA has higher physical properties, fatigue resistance, and high temperature rheological properties due to its internal crosslinking structure. Its storage stability is also very good, with a difference of only 0.7 °C in the softening point.
Microstructural Investigations Regarding Sustainable Recycling of Ceramic Slurry Collected from Industrial Waste Waters
Authors: Avram Simona Elena , Barbu Tudoran Lucian , Cuc Stanca , Borodi Gheorghe , Birle Bianca Violeta , Petean Ioan
Published: January 2024

Ceramic slurry wastes have a significant hazardous potential when dumped. Their recycling as raw material is a sustainable approach for the development of nature-friendly applications. The microstructure and mechanical properties play a key role in the success of this sustainable recycling. Ceramic slurry samples resulting from the wall and floor tiles production facility were analyzed. The mineral composition was investigated by XRD combined with mineralogical microscopy and the microstructure was investigated by SEM microscopy coupled with EDX spectroscopy and elemental mapping. The ceramic slurry contains: quartz, kaolinite, mullite and small amounts of lepidocrocite. Quartz and mullite particles have sizes in the range of 5–100 μm and kaolinite has small particles of around 1 to 30 μm. Iron hydroxide crystallized as lepidocrocite is finely distributed among kaolinite aggregates. It makes the slurry unable to be reused in the technological process because of the glaze staining risk, but it does not affect the material cohesion. Thus, the cylindrical samples were prepared at progressive compactions rates as follows: 1808.55; 1853.46; 1930.79 and 2181.24 kg/m3 and dried. Thereafter, were subjected to a compression test with a lower compression strength of 0.75 MPa for lower density and a higher strength of 1.36 MPa for the higher density. Thus, slurry compaction enhances the kaolinite binding ability. The Young’s Modulus slightly decreases with the compaction increasing due to local microstructure rigidizing. This proves the binding ability of kaolinite, which properly embeds quartz and mullite particles into a coherent and resistant structure. The fractography analysis reveals that fracture starts on the internal pores at low compaction rates and throughout the kaolinite layer in the samples with high compactness. The observed properties indicate that the investigated ceramic slurry is proper as a clay-based binder for sustainable ecological buildings, avoiding the exploitation of new clay quarries. Also, it might be utilized for ecological brick production.
Balancing Environmental Sustainability and Economic Development: Perspectives from New Structural Economics
Authors: Cai Jiayao , Chen Qiong , Zhang Zirun
Published: January 2024

This paper explores the balance between environmental sustainability and economic development in the context of the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YEB) in China, a region pivotal to the country’s industrial and environmental strategy. Utilizing New Structural Economics and the congruence index, we assessed the alignment between the local factor endowment structure and firm production input structure. Using the dataset of pollutant emissions from manufacturing firms in the YEB and focusing on key variables such as Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) emissions and wastewater emissions, our findings indicate that firms with higher congruence demonstrate enhanced economic performance and alignment with comparative advantages. This alignment not only improves economic efficiency but also results in significantly reduced pollutant emissions, with a higher congruence index correlating with approximately 6.66% lower COD emissions and 5.39% reduced wastewater emissions per unit of industrial output. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and businesses, showing how alignment with local factor endowments can lead to mutually beneficial environmental and economic outcomes. The study contributes to the broader literature on environmental sustainability and economic development by demonstrating the practical application of New Structural Economics in a critical industrial region of China.
Rural Tourism in Mountain Rural Comunities-Possible Direction/Strategies: Case Study Mountain Area from Bihor County
Authors: Popescu Cosmin Alin , Iancu Tiberiu , Popescu Gabriela , Croitoru Ionut Marius , Adamov Tabita , Ciolac Ramona
Published: January 2024

Rural mountain areas and their local communities have been subject to research interest over time due to their large amount of available resources, but also their problems. The strategy for some of the rural mountain communities to simultaneously preserve and capitalize on the local resources sustainably is to combine traditional activities with those related to hospitality and recreation in the form of rural tourism activity. In this context, we have used a case study to examine development in a rural mountain community through tourism activities; the study site is the rural mountain area of Bihor County in the Apuseni Mountains, which has outstanding, but untapped, potential for development. In this paper, we address the centralization of representative resources on each component community of the chosen area, concrete information related to the current stage of the development and performance of the activity directly from those involved in the coordination of the activity (rural tourism entrepreneurs) using a specific questionnaire, and proposals for possible directions/strategies to ensure future development of this communities through rural tourism activities.
Economic Inclusion: Green Finance and the SDGs
Authors: van Niekerk Arno J.
Published: January 2024

Persistent economic exclusion and the high levels of natural resource depletion are alarming. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are among a few global initiatives aimed at bringing a turnaround in both of these areas of concern. Giving action to productive economic inclusion and transitioning towards a circular, regenerative economy is challenging for countries, particularly because of a lack of economic incentives. Green finance has emerged in the last few decades as a valuable mechanism that has the potential to meet this challenge. In answering the question of how to facilitate the necessary transition to a green, inclusive economy, the paper attempts to bring green finance and economic inclusion together as a possible means (like a bridge) to address economic exclusion and resource degeneration. That is the primary aim of the study, and it is investigated through an analysis of theoretical literature. The key findings include: a strong synergy exists between green finance and economic inclusion; different forms of green finance are able to facilitate economic inclusion; and green finance can be instrumental in attracting investors to fast-track SDG attainment. A key conclusion is that green finance can play a vital role in activating and prolonging broad-based benefit sharing in an eco-conscious way.
Can Aquaponics Be Utilized to Reach Zero Hunger at a Local Level?
Authors: Flores-Aguilar Priscila Sarai , Sánchez-Velázquez Julieta , Aguirre-Becerra Humberto , Peña-Herrejón Guillermo Abraham , Zamora-Castro Sergio Aurelio , Soto-Zarazúa Genaro Martín
Published: January 2024

Meeting the demand for food through sustainable agro-industrial systems has become a concern due to the current state of the planet’s natural resources, population growth, and climate change. To address this, the 2030 Agenda has laid out several strategies to enhance human well-being and protect the planet. This paper focuses on Goal 2, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. The first three targets of this goal are as follows: 2.1, ending hunger and ensuring access to nutritious food; 2.2, ending all forms of malnutrition; and 2.3, doubling the agricultural productivity of small-scale food producers. The purpose of this manuscript is to demonstrate how aquaponics can positively impact these three targets by guaranteeing food security through the production of high-quality protein. Aquaponic crops are enriched with organic nutrients from the water they grow in. This not only increases their nutrient content but also their bioactive molecule content, making them excellent for fighting hunger and malnutrition. Moreover, these practices can be adjusted to different scales, making them a viable option for small farmers, women, and rural communities to produce their own food. Consequently, aquaponics can play a crucial role in achieving Zero Hunger locally, with appropriate support.
A Comprehensive Framework for Evaluating Bridge Resilience: Safety, Social, Environmental, and Economic Perspectives
Authors: Liu Yanjie , Xiang Cheng
Published: January 2024

Bridges are critical components of transportation systems and are susceptible to various natural and man-made disasters throughout their lifecycle. With the rapid development of the transportation industry, the frequency of vehicle-induced disasters has been steadily increasing. These incidents not only result in structural damage to bridges but also have the potential to cause traffic interruptions, weaken social service functions, and impose significant economic losses. In recent years, research on resilience has become a new focus in civil engineering disaster prevention and mitigation. This study proposes a concept of generalized bridge resilience and presents an evaluation framework for cable-stayed bridges under disasters. The framework includes a resilience evaluation indicator system from multiple dimensions, including safety, society, environment, and economy, which facilitates the dynamic and comprehensive control of bridge resilience throughout its entire lifecycle with the ultimate goals of enhancing structural safety and economic efficiency while promoting the development of environmentally friendly structural ecosystems. Furthermore, considering the influence of recovery speed, the study evaluates various repair strategies through resilience assessment, revealing the applicable environments and conditions for different repair strategies. This methodology offers significant implications for enhancing the safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of infrastructure systems, providing valuable guidance for future research in this field.
A Multidimensional Approach to Understanding Food Deserts in Vulnerable Contexts
Authors: Cruz-Piedrahita Catalina , Martinez-Carranza Francisco-Javier , Delgado-Serrano Maria Mar
Published: January 2024

This study examined the phenomenon of “food deserts” in Las Palmeras, a vulnerable neighborhood in Córdoba, Spain, a medium-sized city known for its agricultural traditions and Mediterranean diet. Through a mixed-methods approach, including spatial analysis, and quantitative and qualitative assessments, we compared dietary habits and food accessibility in Las Palmeras to other Córdoba neighborhoods. We found that Las Palmeras residents reported significantly lower fruit and vegetable consumption and expressed greater difficulty accessing healthy foods despite having a relatively short commute time to the nearest grocery store. Moreover, people in Las Palmeras reported spending more time preparing meals than people in other parts of the city. In contrast, El Brillante, a high-income neighborhood, reported consistent healthy food consumption, even with longer commutes to supermarkets and less time spent preparing meals. This disparity suggests that economic barriers and education levels play a critical role in food choices, emphasizing that food deserts are multidimensional and encompass more than just geographical accessibility to nutritious food. Utilizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a holistic approach, our study amplifies the discussion of sustainable urban development, examining the complex interplay of geographic proximity, socio-economic status, educational levels, generational changes, and the variety of food options in determining access to healthy food. This research offers valuable insights into food accessibility in Spain and contributes to the European dialogue on food deserts and food security, informing strategies for enhancing urban food security, particularly in vulnerable neighborhoods.
Chlorine Gas Removal by H2 Treated Red Mud for the Potential Application in Waste Plastic Pyrolysis Process
Authors: Kim Tae-Young , Hong Seo-Hye , Kim Jae-Chang , Jang Hye-Won , Lee Yeji , Kim Hyun-Ji , Lee Soo-Chool , Kang Suk-Hwan
Published: January 2024

In the process of pyrolyzing waste plastics, the generation of Cl2 gas can pose a problem. During the pyrolysis processing, incomplete combustion of organic compounds containing chlorine can lead to the formation of toxic chemicals, which can cause issues in subsequent processing stages. Therefore, an adsorbent plays an important role in removing Cl2 in the dechlorination process, and alkaline adsorbents and metal oxides are generally used. Waste red mud is composed of Fe metal oxide and alkaline components, so it is intended to be used as a Cl2 adsorbent. The Cl2 removal ability of red mud with different redox status of iron oxides was assessed. Hydrogen treatment was performed at various temperatures to control the reduction potential of the Fe in the metal oxides, and phase changes in the Fe oxide component of red mud were confirmed. In the case of red mud hydrogenated at 700 °C, most of the Fe2O3 structure could be converted to the Fe3O4 structure, and the Fe3O4 structure showed superior results in Cl2 adsorption compared to the Fe2O3 structure. As a result, red mud at an H2 treatment temperature of 700 °C showed about three times higher Cl2 adsorption compared to red mud without H2 treatment.
The Role of the Law in Prompting Environmental Stewardship for Farms Located Near Phosphate Mines
Authors: Banikhalid Abdullah , Rahbeh Michel
Published: January 2024

The effectiveness of environmental laws depends on several factors, including the cooperation between the stakeholders, compliance, and implementation. This research investigated the effectiveness of the Jordanian environmental laws in protecting agricultural lands near phosphate mines that are operated by the Jordanian Phosphate Mining Corporation (JPMC). The two other stakeholders involved are the Ministry of Environment (MOENV) and the farmers. The evaluation of the effectiveness of the environmental law was based on a hypothetical model that considers consecutive relations between awareness, commitment, and compliance. A second model was based on monitoring and enforcement as catalysts to the awareness and commitment that lead to compliance. The research problem was addressed using three questionnaires based on a 5-point Likert scale. The results showed modest compliance by the farmers and the absence of a correlation between awareness and commitment, as well as a lack of monitoring by the MOENV. The consecutive model can explain the compliance of the JPMC, since awareness, commitment, and compliance were well correlated despite the lack of managerial involvement by the JPMC in enhancing environmental awareness. It is recommended that more resources be allocated to increase the monitoring activities by the MOENV and study the social and economic factors influencing farmers’ compliance.
Industry 4.0 and Sustainability Integration in the Supply Chains of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises through People, Process, and Technology within the Triple Bottom Line Perspective
Authors: Machado Eduardo Augusto , Scavarda Luiz Felipe , Caiado Rodrigo Goyannes Gusmão , Santos Renan Silva
Published: January 2024

This study fills a crucial gap in the research on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), with the main objective of proposing a framework to support the integration of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and sustainability into the supply chains of MSMEs. This integration is accomplished by people, process, and technology (PPT) mechanisms, all while adopting the triple bottom line (TBL) perspective. A mixed-method approach was employed for this study, which included a scoping review of 147 publications, expert panels, focus groups, and a survey with 55 valid responses. The findings identified 32 key indicators linked to the primary barriers and enablers of I4.0 and sustainability integration (S-I4.0) in MSMEs’ supply chains. This study also highlighted the dominant barriers and enablers within the PPT mechanisms and TBL dimensions, and their causal relationships and influences. The results were synthesized into a novel S-I4.0 framework, separately applied to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) and Medium Enterprises (MEs) due to company size-related variations. This study offers valuable insights for academics and provides practical guidelines to assist MSMEs in integrating I4.0 and sustainability into their supply chains. An important contribution concerns to the need to treat MSEs and MEs differently. These research results provide relevant and novel guidance for MSEs and MEs to accelerate the S-I4.0 adoption process, with an immediate impact on their supply chains.
Revisiting de Broglie’s Double-Solution Pilot-Wave Theory with a Lorentz-Covariant Lagrangian Framework
Authors: Darrow David , Bush John W. M.
Published: January 2024

The relation between de Broglie’s double-solution approach to quantum dynamics and the hydrodynamic pilot-wave system has motivated a number of recent revisitations and extensions of de Broglie’s theory. Building upon these recent developments, we here introduce a rich family of pilot-wave systems, with a view to reformulating and studying de Broglie’s double-solution program in the modern language of classical field theory. Notably, the entire family is local and Lorentz-invariant, follows from a variational principle, and exhibits time-invariant, two-way coupling between particle and pilot-wave field. We first introduce a variational framework for generic pilot-wave systems, including a derivation of particle-wave exchange of Noether currents. We then focus on a particular limit of our system, in which the particle is propelled by the local gradient of its pilot wave. In this case, we see that the Compton-scale oscillations proposed by de Broglie emerge naturally in the form of particle vibrations, and that the vibration modes dynamically adjust to match the Compton frequency in the rest frame of the particle. The underlying field dynamically changes its radiation patterns in order to satisfy the de Broglie relation p=ℏk at the particle’s position, even as the particle momentum p changes. The wave form and frequency thus evolve so as to conform to de Broglie’s harmony of phases, even for unsteady particle motion. We show that the particle is always dressed with a Compton-scale Yukawa wavepacket, independent of its trajectory, and that the associated energy imparts a constant increase to the particle’s inertial mass. Finally, we see that the particle’s wave-induced Compton-scale oscillation gives rise to a classical version of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.
Shaping and Optimizing the Image of Virtual City Spokespersons Based on Factor Analysis and Entropy Weight Methodology: A Cross-Sectional Study from China
Authors: Chen Jialing , Pan Linfan , Zhou Ren , Jiang Qianling
Published: January 2024

With the continuous development of digital technology, the widespread use of virtual spokespersons to promote city images is becoming increasingly prevalent. This study responds to this trend by employing a factor analysis and entropy weight methodology to explore the different dimensions and priorities in shaping the image of virtual city spokespersons in China. The aim is to offer insights into the design strategies and directions for shaping the image of virtual city spokespersons. For the research, we first conducted a literature review and semi-structured interviews to investigate the requirements of users in mainland China and Hong Kong regarding the image shaping of virtual city spokespersons. Building upon this groundwork, a questionnaire was designed and distributed, and it successfully gathered 512 valid responses. Subsequently, a factor analysis was utilized to identify eight key dimensions in shaping the images of Chinese virtual city spokespersons: “Design elements”, “Anthropomorphism”, “Evolutionary”, “Emotionalization”, “Narrativity”, “Culturalism”, “Interactivity”, and “Reliability”. Then, the entropy weighting method was applied to analyze the weights of each indicator within these dimensions. The results revealed that “Design elements” have the highest priority in shaping the image of virtual city spokespersons, followed by “Anthropomorphism”, “Emotionalization”, “Evolutionary”, “Culturalism”, “Narrativity”, “Reliability”, and “Interactivity”. Based on these findings, a series of design optimization strategies are proposed, including but not limited to shaping visually appealing images aligned with user perceptions, establishing emotional connections with users, and meeting the functional experience needs of users. These strategies not only contribute to the image shaping of virtual city spokespersons, but also provide vital guidance for innovative directions in promoting the publicity and marketing of Chinese cities.
Feasibility Study of Developing a Saline-Based Antiviral Nanoformulation Containing Lipid-Soluble EGCG: A Potential Nasal Drug to Treat Long COVID
Authors: Frank Nicolette , Dickinson Douglas , Garcia William , Liu Yutao , Yu Hongfang , Cai Jingwen , Patel Sahaj , Yao Bo , Jiang Xiaocui , Hsu Stephen
Published: January 2024

A recent estimate indicates that up to 23.7 million Americans suffer from long COVID, and approximately one million workers may be out of the workforce each day due to associated symptoms, leading to a USD 50 billion annual loss of salary. Post-COVID (Long COVID) neurologic symptoms are due to the initial robust replication of SARS-CoV-2 in the nasal neuroepithelial cells, leading to inflammation of the olfactory epithelium (OE) and the central nervous system (CNS), and the OE becoming a persistent infection site. Previously, our group showed that Epigallocatechin-3-gallate-palmitate (EC16) nanoformulations possess strong antiviral activity against human coronavirus, suggesting this green tea-derived compound in nanoparticle formulations could be developed as an intranasally delivered new drug to eliminate the persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection, leading to restored olfactory function and reduced inflammation in the CNS. The objective of the current study was to determine the compatibility of the nanoformulations with human nasal primary epithelial cells (HNpECs). Methods: Nanoparticle size was measured using the ZetaView Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) system; contact antiviral activity was determined by TCID50 assay for cytopathic effect on MRC-5 cells; post-infection inhibition activity was determined in HNpECs; and cytotoxicity for these cells was determined using an MTT assay. The rapid inactivation of OC43 (a β-coronavirus) and 229E (α-coronavirus) viruses was further characterized by transmission electron microscopy. Results: A saline-based nanoformulation containing 0.1% w/v EC16 was able to inactivate 99.9999% β-coronavirus OC43 on direct contact within 1 min. After a 10-min incubation of infected HNpECs with a formulation containing drug-grade EC16 (EGCG-4′ mono-palmitate or EC16m), OC43 viral replication was inhibited by 99%. In addition, all nanoformulations tested for their effect on cell viability were comparable to normal saline, a regularly used nasal irrigation solution. A 1-min incubation of an EC16 nanoformulation with either OC43 or 229E showed an altered viral structure. Conclusion: Nanoformulations containing EC16 showed properties compatible with nasal application to rapidly inactivate SARS-CoV-2 residing in the olfactory mucosa and to reduce inflammation in the CNS, pending additional formulation and safety studies.
Epigenetic Control of Innate Immunity: Consequences of Acute Respiratory Virus Infection
Authors: Lefkowitz Rivka Bella , Miller Clare M. , Martinez-Caballero Juan David , Ramos Irene
Published: January 2024

Infections caused by acute respiratory viruses induce a systemic innate immune response, which can be measured by the increased levels of expression of inflammatory genes in immune cells. There is growing evidence that these acute viral infections, alongside transient transcriptomic responses, induce epigenetic remodeling as part of the immune response, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, which might persist after the infection is cleared. In this article, we first review the primary mechanisms of epigenetic remodeling in the context of innate immunity and inflammation, which are crucial for the regulation of the immune response to viral infections. Next, we delve into the existing knowledge concerning the impact of respiratory virus infections on the epigenome, focusing on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Influenza A Virus (IAV), and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Finally, we offer perspectives on the potential consequences of virus-induced epigenetic remodeling and open questions in the field that are currently under investigation.
Hypoxia and Activation of Neutrophil Degranulation-Related Genes in the Peripheral Blood of COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Lei Hongxing
Published: January 2024

Severe COVID-19 is characterized by systematic hyper-inflammation and subsequent damage to various organs. Therefore, it is critical to trace this cascade of hyper-inflammation. Blood transcriptome has been routinely utilized in the interrogation of host immune response in COVID-19 and other infectious conditions. In this study, consensus gene dysregulation in the blood was obtained from 13 independent transcriptome studies on COVID-19. Among the up-regulated genes, the most prominent functional categories were neutrophil degranulation and cell cycle, which is clearly different from the classical activation of interferon signaling pathway in seasonal flu. As for the potential upstream causal factors of the atypical gene dysregulation, systemic hypoxia was further examined because it is much more widely reported in COVID-19 than that in seasonal flu. It was found that both physiological and pathological hypoxia can induce activation of neutrophil degranulation-related genes in the blood. Furthermore, COVID-19 patients with different requirement for oxygen intervention showed distinctive levels of gene expression related to neutrophil degranulation in the whole blood, which was validated in isolated neutrophils. Thus, activation of neutrophil degranulation-related genes in the blood of COVID-19 could be partially attributed to hypoxia. Interestingly, similar pattern was also observed in H1N1 infection (the cause of Spanish flu) and several other severe respiratory viral infections. As for the molecular mechanism, both HIF-dependent and HIF-independent pathways have been examined. Since the activation of neutrophil degranulation-related genes is highly correlated with disease severity in COVID-19, early detection of hypoxia and active intervention may prevent further activation of neutrophil degranulation-related genes and other harmful downstream hyper-inflammation. This common mechanism is applicable to current and future pandemic as well as the severe form of common respiratory infection.
COVID-19 Vaccines: Where Did We Stand at the End of 2023?
Authors: Lundstrom Kenneth
Published: January 2024

Vaccine development against SARS-CoV-2 has been highly successful in slowing down the COVID-19 pandemic. A wide spectrum of approaches including vaccines based on whole viruses, protein subunits and peptides, viral vectors, and nucleic acids has been developed in parallel. For all types of COVID-19 vaccines, good safety and efficacy have been obtained in both preclinical animal studies and in clinical trials in humans. Moreover, emergency use authorization has been granted for the major types of COVID-19 vaccines. Although high safety has been demonstrated, rare cases of severe adverse events have been detected after global mass vaccinations. Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants possessing enhanced infectivity have affected vaccine protection efficacy requiring re-design and re-engineering of novel COVID-19 vaccine candidates. Furthermore, insight is given into preparedness against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Exploring Vaccination Challenges among Syrian Refugees in Jordan: Insights from Camps and Communities, and Perceived Parental Barriers to Childhood Vaccination Uptake
Authors: Abdulhaq Bayan , Hammouri Muhammad , Abu Hawas Dania , Dardas Latefa Ali
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To identify and understand the multifaceted barriers faced by Syrian refugees when seeking vaccination services for their children. Methods: A survey questionnaire was administered through structured interviews to a sample of Syrian refugees residing inside the Al-Zaatari camp and in various urban areas across Jordanian communities. This process utilized a multi-stage sampling approach, beginning with a random selection from clusters or strata, and then employing convenience sampling within each to select participants. The survey covered demographics, barriers to vaccination, and vaccine hesitancy. Results: A total of 332 participants completed the survey with a mean age of 32.7 ± 10 years ranging from 18 to 67. More than half of the sample (59%) had an education of 11th grade or less. Sociodemographic disparities regarding barrier perception were evident among participants. Middle-aged adults (older than 32), males, and those with a monthly income less than USD 200 had scored significantly higher on barrier perceptions across all categories (p < 0.05). In-camp residents were less likely to face vaccination barriers compared to those living outside the camps (p < 0.001). Psychological antecedents of vaccine assessments showed that younger individuals had significantly higher scores in complacency, calculation, and constraints (p < 0.05). Participants with lower income had lower constraints and calculation scores (p < 0.05). In-camp residents had significantly higher scores in complacency, constraints, and calculation constructs compared outside camps counterparts (p < 0.05). Participants with no formal education had higher scores in complacency and constraints, and those with less than a 12th-grade education and higher education degrees scored significantly higher on the collective responsibility construct (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Efforts to promote vaccination among refugees should consider the specific challenges faced by this population, including financial barriers, healthcare access inequalities, and the impact of living arrangements. Public health strategies should address not only individual and psychological factors but also the physical and logistical challenges in obtaining vaccines.
Long-Term Immunogenicity and Safety of a Homologous Third Dose Booster Vaccination with TURKOVAC: Phase 2 Clinical Study Findings with 32-Week Post-Booster Follow-Up
Authors: Sezer Zafer , Pavel Shaikh Terkis Islam , Inal Ahmet , Yetiskin Hazel , Kaplan Busra , Uygut Muhammet Ali , Aslan Ahmet Furkan , Bayram Adnan , Mazicioglu Mumtaz , Kalin Unuvar Gamze , Yuce Zeynep Ture , Aydin Gunsu , Kaya Refika Kamuran , Ates Ihsan , Kara Ates , Ozdarendeli Aykut
Published: January 2024

Vaccine-induced immunity wanes over time and warrants booster doses. We investigated the long-term (32 weeks) immunogenicity and safety of a third, homologous, open-label booster dose of TURKOVAC, administered 12 weeks after completion of the primary series in a randomized, controlled, double-blind, phase 2 study. Forty-two participants included in the analysis were evaluated for neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) (with microneutralization (MNT50) and focus reduction (FRNT50) tests), SARS-CoV-2 S1 RBD (Spike S1 Receptor Binding Domain), and whole SARS-CoV-2 (with ELISA) IgGs on the day of booster injection and at weeks 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 24, and 32 thereafter. Antibody titers increased significantly from week 1 and remained higher than the pre-booster titers until at least week 4 (week 8 for whole SARS-CoV-2) (p < 0.05 for all). Seroconversion (titers ≥ 4-fold compared with pre-immune status) persisted 16 weeks (MNT50: 6-fold; FRNT50: 5.4-fold) for NAbs and 32 weeks for S1 RBD (7.9-fold) and whole SARS-CoV-2 (9.4-fold) IgGs. Nine participants (20.9%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR between weeks 8 and 32 of booster vaccination; none of them were hospitalized or died. These findings suggest that boosting with TURKOVAC can provide effective protection against COVID-19 for at least 8 weeks and reduce the severity of the disease.
Human Tick-Borne Diseases and Advances in Anti-Tick Vaccine Approaches: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Nepveu-Traversy Marie-Edith , Fausther-Bovendo Hugues , Babuadze George (Giorgi)
Published: January 2024

This comprehensive review explores the field of anti-tick vaccines, addressing their significance in combating tick-borne diseases of public health concern. The main objectives are to provide a brief epidemiology of diseases affecting humans and a thorough understanding of tick biology, traditional tick control methods, the development and mechanisms of anti-tick vaccines, their efficacy in field applications, associated challenges, and future prospects. Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) pose a significant and escalating threat to global health and the livestock industries due to the widespread distribution of ticks and the multitude of pathogens they transmit. Traditional tick control methods, such as acaricides and repellents, have limitations, including environmental concerns and the emergence of tick resistance. Anti-tick vaccines offer a promising alternative by targeting specific tick proteins crucial for feeding and pathogen transmission. Developing vaccines with antigens based on these essential proteins is likely to disrupt these processes. Indeed, anti-tick vaccines have shown efficacy in laboratory and field trials successfully implemented in livestock, reducing the prevalence of TBDs. However, some challenges still remain, including vaccine efficacy on different hosts, polymorphisms in ticks of the same species, and the economic considerations of adopting large-scale vaccine strategies. Emerging technologies and approaches hold promise for improving anti-tick vaccine development and expanding their impact on public health and agriculture.
Immunogenic and Protective Properties of Recombinant Hemagglutinin of Influenza A (H5N8) Virus
Authors: Rudometova Nadezhda B. , Fando Anastasia A. , Kisakova Lyubov A. , Kisakov Denis N. , Borgoyakova Mariya B. , Litvinova Victoria R. , Yakovlev Vladimir A. , Tigeeva Elena V. , Vahitov Danil I. , Sharabrin Sergey V. , Shcherbakov Dmitriy N. , Evseenko Veronika I. , Ivanova Ksenia I. , Gudymo Andrei S. , Ilyicheva Tatiana N. , Marchenko Vasiliy Yu. , Ilyichev Alexander A. , Rudometov Andrey P. , Karpenko Larisa I.
Published: January 2024

In this study, we characterized recombinant hemagglutinin (HA) of influenza A (H5N8) virus produced in Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO-K1s). Immunochemical analysis showed that the recombinant hemagglutinin was recognized by the serum of ferrets infected with influenza A (H5N8) virus, indicating that its antigenic properties were retained. Two groups of Balb/c mice were immunized with intramuscular injection of recombinant hemagglutinin or propiolactone inactivated A/Astrakhan/3212/2020 (H5N8) influenza virus. The results demonstrated that both immunogens induced a specific antibody response as determined by ELISA. Virus neutralization assay revealed that sera of immunized animals were able to neutralize A/turkey/Stavropol/320-01/2020 (H5N8) influenza virus—the average neutralizing titer was 2560. Immunization with both recombinant HA/H5 hemagglutinin and inactivated virus gave 100% protection against lethal H5N8 virus challenge. This study shows that recombinant HA (H5N8) protein may be a useful antigen candidate for developing subunit vaccines against influenza A (H5N8) virus with suitable immunogenicity and protective efficacy.
Heterotrophic Nitrification–Aerobic Denitrification by Bacillus sp. L2: Mechanism of Denitrification and Strain Immobilization
Authors: Li Qiang , He Yuehui , Wang Boyan , Weng Nanhai , Zhang Lei , Wang Kaichun , Tian Fengrong , Lyu Mingsheng , Wang Shujun
Published: January 2024

The biological denitrification of low-C/N wastewater is a great challenge in treatment plants due to the lack of microorganisms with heterotrophic nitrification–aerobic denitrification (HN-AD) abilities. In this study, Bacillus sp. L2 was isolated from aeration tank water samples using a nitrification medium and screened for its ability to perform HN-AD in low-C/N wastewater. The strain showed a maximum NH4+-N removal rate of 98.37% under low-C/N conditions. In the presence of a mixed N source, strain L2 was capable of completely removing NH4+-N within 24 h. Furthermore, optimal nitrogen removal conditions for strain L2 were found to be C/N = 9, pH = 9, and sodium acetate as the C source. Under optimal conditions, the strain was able to maintain a high NH4+-N removal rate under 0–3% salinity and an NH4+-N concentration of 200 mg/L or less. The denitrification pathways of strain L2 were NH4+→NH2OH→NO2−(↔NO3−)→NO→N2O→N2 and NH4+→NH2OH→NO→N2O→N2. Furthermore, semi-continuous wastewater treatment was conducted using immobilized technology, which resulted in more than 82% NH4+-N removal after three cycles of reuse. This study demonstrates the great potential of Bacillus sp. L2 in wastewater treatment applications.