bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Productivity at a Marble Processing Plant Through Energy and Exergy Analysis
Authors: Oweh Samuel Oghale , Aigba Peter Alenoghena , Samuel Olusegun David , Oyekale Joseph , Abam Fidelis Ibiang , Veza Ibham , Enweremadu Christopher Chintua , Der Oguzhan , Ercetin Ali , Sener Ramazan
Published: December 2024

A marble processing plant (MPP) can achieve sustainable development by implementing energy-saving and consumption-reduction technology. Reducing energy loss in such an energy-intensive plant is crucial for overall energy savings. This study establishes an MPP optimization model based on the second law of thermodynamics and the law of conservation of mass. Marble is an aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting building material that has boosted economies in European and sub-Saharan African nations. However, high energy costs and scarcity have constrained the industry’s economic potential and hindered the achievement of optimal levels of production. The second law of thermodynamics is adopted to study the irreversibilities, inefficiencies, and exergetic performance of a marble processing plant. The Aspen Plus commercial software application is used to model and generate thermodynamic data, determine energy flow streams and conduct sensitivity and optimization analysis to improve data quality and energetic performance outcomes. From the results, the various scales of the exergetic destruction, efficiencies, and exergetic losses are determined, and recommendations are established. The overall energy and exergy efficiency levels were determined to be 87.43% and 86.84%, respectively, with a total exergetic destruction of 200.61 kW. The reported methodologies, cutting-edge ideas, and solutions will give industrialists and other significant stakeholders in the global manufacturing sector cutting-edge information about energy usage and ways to cut energy losses in both new and existing factory designs, manage energy cost components, and adjust energy efficiency to maximize productivity.
Assessment of Teleconnections of Extreme Precipitation with Large-Scale Climate Indices: A Case Study of the Zishui River Basin, China
Authors: Peng Yuqing , Dong Zengchuan , Zhang Tianyan , Cui Can , Zhu Shengnan , Wu Shujun , Li Zhuozheng , Cui Xun
Published: December 2024

With global climate change, the frequency of extreme precipitation events in the Zishui River Basin (ZRB) is increasing, presenting significant challenges for water resource management. This study focuses on analyzing the evolution of extreme precipitation trends during the flood season from 1979 to 2018 and investigating their remote correlations with 18 large-scale climate indicators (LCIs) using three-dimensional (3D) Vine Copula. The results indicate a significant downward trend in the sustained wetness index (CWD) during the flood season, while trends in other extreme precipitation indices (EPIs) are not significant. Notably, a significant correlation exists between Maximum Precipitation for One Day (RX1day) and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), Pacific North American pattern (PNO), and Sustained Drought Index (CDD), as well as between Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation (AMO) and PDO. Excluding the optimal marginal distribution of PDO, which follows a Laplace distribution, the optimal marginal distributions of the other indices conform to a Beta distribution. The C-Vine Copula function was employed to establish the functional relationships among RX1day, PDO, PNO, CDD, and AMO, allowing for an analysis of the impact of model fitting on EPIs under different LCI scenarios. The findings of this study are significant for the ZRB and other inland monsoon climate zones, providing a scientific foundation for addressing climate extremes and enhancing flood monitoring and prediction capabilities in the region.
Residential Load Forecasting Based on Long Short-Term Memory, Considering Temporal Local Attention
Authors: Cao Wenzhi , Liu Houdun , Zhang Xiangzhi , Zeng Yangyan
Published: December 2024

Accurate residential load forecasting is crucial for the stable operation of the energy internet, which plays a significant role in advancing sustainable development. As the construction of the energy internet progresses, the proportion of residential electricity consumption in end-use energy consumption is increasing, the peak load on the grid is growing year on year, and seasonal and regional peak power supply tensions, mainly for household electricity consumption, grow into common problems across countries. Residential load forecasting can assist utility companies in determining effective electricity pricing structures and demand response operations, thereby improving renewable energy utilization efficiency and reducing the share of thermal power generation. However, due to the randomness and uncertainty of user load data, forecasting residential load remains challenging. According to prior research, the accuracy of residential load forecasting using machine learning and deep learning methods still has room for improvement. This paper proposes an improved load-forecasting model based on a time-localized attention (TLA) mechanism integrated with LSTM, named TLA-LSTM. The model is composed of a full-text regression network, a date-attention network, and a time-point attention network. The full-text regression network consists of a traditional LSTM, while the date-attention and time-point attention networks are based on a local attention model constructed with CNN and LSTM. Experimental results on real-world datasets show that compared to standard LSTM models, the proposed method improves R2 by 14.2%, reduces MSE by 15.2%, and decreases RMSE by 8.5%. These enhancements demonstrate the robustness and efficiency of the TLA-LSTM model in load forecasting tasks, effectively addressing the limitations of traditional LSTM models in focusing on specific dates and time-points in user load data.
Barriers to Implementing Lean Six Sigma in the Chemical Process Industry: The Case of Brazil
Authors: Tortorelli Caroline , Arantes Amílcar
Published: December 2024

Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is recognized as a powerful process improvement methodology for enhancing operational efficiency and long-term sustainability. This study examined the barriers hindering LSS implementation in the chemical process industry within an emerging economy, Brazil. It developed a structured methodology for designing mitigation measures to overcome those barriers. First, 26 barriers from the literature were ranked by LSS experts through a Delphi survey to select the top 15. Then, a combined interpretive structural modeling (ISM) approach and impact matrix cross-reference multiplication applied to a classification (MICMAC) analysis approach was used, supported by a focus group, to determine the hierarchical relationships among the barriers and their driving power and dependence. Finally, a second focus group defined adequate mitigation measures. The top four main barriers are the lack of time, insufficient systemic understanding of lean principles, misalignment between LSS and corporate strategies, and inadequate top management commitment. Additionally, 10 mitigation measures are proposed. This study contributes to LSS implementation in the chemical process industry in Brazil, thus enhancing industry sustainability by improving operational efficiency, curbing waste, reducing transportation-related emissions through a decreasing reliance on imported chemical products, and contributing to economic growth and job creation within the industry.
Contrasting Soil Organic Carbon Concentrations and Mass Storage Between Conventional Farming and Organic Farming: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao Tingxuan , Kubota Hiroshi , Hernandez-Ramirez Guillermo
Published: December 2024

This meta-analysis studied the impact of conventional versus organic farming practices on soil organic carbon (SOC) concentrations and mass storage. We aimed to understand the carbon dynamics associated with adopting organic agricultural practices by reviewing and synthesizing data from 1950 to 2023. We analyzed data from 64 experimental field comparisons that involved SOC concentration and mass storage measurements, covering a wide range of studies selected for soil depth analyses, carbon concentration measurements, and comparative methods between conventional and organic systems. Our results indicated a significant increase in SOC under organic agriculture. An analysis of the response ratios (LnRR) for SOC concentration showed variability, with a 95% confidence interval of 0.089–0.149. Similarly, the analysis of carbon storage data indicated a 95% confidence interval of LnRR of 0.053–0.205. These increases in SOC concentration and mass storage reflect the variable but statistically positive impact of organic farming on SOC. Fine soil textures demonstrated the highest mean LnRR for both SOC concentration (0.163) and mass storage (0.173), suggesting the role of soil texture in mediating the effects of organic agriculture on SOC dynamics. Furthermore, there was a significant negative correlation between soil pH and SOC mass storage, with a regression coefficient of −0.174 (p < 0.039). Although a slight positive correlation was observed between temperature and SOC mass storage as LnRR, other environmental factors likely play a critical role in SOC dynamics. These findings emphasize the complexity of SOC dynamics and the significant impact of organic agriculture on increasing SOC concentrations and mass storage. This study broadly contributes to the debate in sustainable agriculture by providing quantitative evidence of the role and benefits of organic agriculture on climate change mitigation. The results also emphasize the importance of adopting organic farming practices for broadly enhancing ecosystems’ resilience and long-term food security.
Advances and Challenges of a Circular Economy (CE) in Agriculture in Ibero-America: A Bibliometric Perspective
Authors: Angulo Mercedes Gaitan , Batista Maria Teresa , Caicedo Melva Inés Gómez
Published: December 2024

The Circular Economy (CE) is defined as a concept that replaces the end of life of a linear productive process, based on new circular flows of reuse, which also allow for restoration together with renewal in a composite process In this sense, it is considered as one of the key elements to promote the decoupling that arises between economic growth and increasing resource consumption in a new relationship. This study aims to investigate the progress, challenges, opportunities and trends in the Circular Economy (CE) in agriculture in Ibero-America. To this end, a documentary review was carried out to conceptualise the characteristics of the CE and the way in which it has been implemented in Ibero-American countries such as Colombia, Brazil, Chile, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Spain and Portugal. Additionally, a bibliometric analysis was carried out, based on the “Scopus” and “Wos” databases, which facilitates the identification of the frequency of writings, number of publications, topics related to CE, key words and authors, among other fundamental criteria, to recognise the importance in the academic and business spheres. This study uses different statistical programmes such as R-tool 4.3.2, R-Package 4.3.2, Bibliometrix 4.0.0, VOSviewer 1.6.18 and Biblioshiny 4.0.0. The results show a growing trend towards the analysis of sustainability and CE processes in agriculture.
Factors Influencing Forest Resource Conservation Behavior of the Youth in Northern Uplands, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Authors: Salimath Pone , Kim Raeyeong , Andoh Jewel , Lee Yohan , Chang Jae Bong
Published: December 2024

The government of Laos has made significant efforts to halt deforestation and promote forest conservation in the Northern Uplands of Laos. However, there is no comprehensive assessment of the initiatives and factors that influence youth involvement in forest resource conservation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify sustainable forest management practices and factors affecting youth behaviors related to forest conservation. Methodologically, our study was conducted in three districts, covering 15 villages, with 330 youths who were selected by systematic sampling to participate in structured interviews, statistically using multiple regressions to identify factors influencing sustainable forest management behaviors. The results indicated that conservation knowledge and recognition are associated with demographic and socioeconomic factors, especially education. Factors related to forest conservation recognition included the amount of information available, gender, monthly income, land ownership, and distance from the forest to home. Most households rely on forest products for their livelihoods. It is concluded that higher levels of education provide people with more job opportunities, which improves their job status and quality of life. Community members who received relevant information were more forward-thinking in their forest management behaviors and willing to contribute to related activities. The empirical evidence indicated that providing essential information to young people can help improve sustainable forest management behaviors.
Crisis Response in Tourism: Semantic Networks and Topic Modeling in the Hotel and Aviation Industries
Authors: Tang Ruohan , Zhao Shaofeng , Lee Won Seok , Park Sunwoo , Zhang Yunfei
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented global disruptions, with the hotel and aviation industries—two critical pillars of tourism—among the hardest hit. This study analyzed 451 hotel-related and 336 aviation-related records from the Web of Science database, applying semantic network analysis to uncover eight clusters of crisis management knowledge: basic functions, crisis response, operational strategies, epidemic prevention and control, crisis perception, innovative services, scope of influence, and internal and external environments. Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic modeling identified distinct thematic strategies for each sector. In hotels, these included Digital Innovation Transformation, Monitoring Management Procedures, Emotional Awareness Incentives, and Resilience Mechanism Establishment. In aviation, strategies focused on Green Economic Transformation, Co-creation Value Realization, Passenger Incentive Mechanisms, and Balancing Health Risks. By visualizing co-occurrence relationships and mapping thematic intersections and divergences, this study provides actionable insights into the recovery strategies of these industries. The findings offer robust support for developing targeted management approaches and decision-making frameworks to ensure the sustainable growth of the tourism sector.
Wastewater Reuse in the EU and Southern European Countries: Policies, Barriers and Good Practices
Authors: Malinauskaite Jurgita , Delpech Bertrand , Montorsi Luca , Venturelli Matteo , Gernjak Wolfgang , Abily Morgan , Stepišnik Perdih Tadej , Nyktari Eleni , Jouhara Hussam
Published: December 2024

Ensuring sustainable consumption of water, which is essential for human development, is not sufficient, therefore, there is an urgent need to improve reuse of treated wastewater. This paper reviews the newest EU legislation related to reclaimed water reuse, which is the main driver for change. While there are some positive developments in the EU, the paper argues that the current EU legislation does not sufficiently encourage circular solutions, especially on how to deal with any bottleneck effects, which prevent to fully utilise wastewater. This reflection is noted based on the national and regional developments in Italy with some comparison with other Southern countries, such as Greece and Spain in attempt to identify good practices as well as any barriers for the reclaimed water to be reused.
Upcycling Waste Cotton Cloth into a Carbon Textile: A Durable and Scalable Layer for Vanadium Redox Flow Battery Applications
Authors: Allam Mohamed Adel , Abdelkareem Mohammad Ali , Alawadhi Hussain , Olabi Abdul Ghani , Fetyan Abdulmonem
Published: December 2024

In our investigation, we unveil a novel, eco-friendly, and cost-effective method for crafting a bio-derived electrode using discarded cotton fabric via a carbonization procedure, marking its inaugural application in a vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB). Our findings showcase the superior reaction surface area, heightened carbon content, and enhanced catalytic prowess for vanadium reactions exhibited by this carbonized waste cloth (CWC) electrode compared to commercially treated graphite felt (TT-GF). Therefore, the VRFB system equipped with these custom electrodes surpasses its treated graphite felt counterpart (61% at an equivalent current) and achieves an impressive voltage efficiency of 70% at a current density of 100 mA cm−2. Notably, energy efficiency sees a notable uptick from 58% to 67% under the same current density conditions. These compelling outcomes underscore the immense potential of the carbonized waste cotton cloth electrode for widespread integration in VRFB installations at scale.
Pollution Problems in the Economic Agricultural Sector: Evaluating the Impact on Natural Resources and Solutions for Improvement
Authors: Moldavan Lubov , Pimenowa Olena , Prus Piotr , Pimenow Sergiusz
Published: December 2024

In the face of modern global challenges and the growing impacts of anthropogenic activity, the issue of agricultural pollution of natural resources has become a critical issue, especially in countries experiencing ecological and social crises. Ukraine, as one of Europe’s largest agricultural producers, faces unique challenges stemming from the legacy of radiation contamination following the Chornobyl nuclear disaster, intensive land use, and the environmental consequences of military conflict. Our study focuses on analyzing the sources of agricultural pollution, including chemical runoff, pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and nutrient leaching, as well as their impacts on the sustainability of agroecosystems, food security, and human well-being. The methodology is based on a systematic analysis of scientific research, agrochemical surveys, monitoring reports, and documents from governmental and non-governmental organizations. The assessment of natural resources was conducted using an integrated approach combining quantitative and qualitative pollution indicators. The results reveal an increasing threat to natural resources in Ukraine due to outdated technologies, radiation contamination, and military activities. Special attention is given to the need for a transition to agroecological farming methods and bioremediation for restoring contaminated lands and water resources. The study contributes to the development of sustainable approaches to managing natural resources and strategic measures to minimize agricultural pollution. The Ukrainian context underscores the relevance of research in countries with transitional economies and unique environmental challenges, making the findings significant for international scientific agendas and environmental policy. Future research perspectives include developing innovative technologies to prevent pollution and enhance the sustainability of agroecosystems to ecological challenges, as well as creating international resource management models based on Ukraine’s experience.
From Posts to Action: Leveraging Social Media to Inspire Food Waste Reduction in Hospitality for a Net Zero Future
Authors: Chang Weifeng , Jiang Mingdi , Arshad Muhammad Hassan
Published: December 2024

This study explores the contribution of social media to food waste reduction among hospitality customers as part of the global net zero emissions agenda. It does this by using the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) model to examine how social media food waste reduction promotion affects hospitality customer food waste intentions, mediated by social media-driven environmental motivation and sustainability-driven customer happiness. Moreover, gratitude towards food waste initiatives moderates these effects such that motivation and emotional satisfaction are more strongly associated with sustainable behaviors. We find that social media campaigns can effectively elicit cognitive and emotional engagement, which in turn strengthens food waste reduction intentions, using data from 404 hospitality customers in China. Furthermore, the study extends the SOR model to sustainability and consumer behavior literature and provides practical guidance for hospitality businesses to harness social media in engaging customers in sustainability efforts. Organizations can enhance the effectiveness of their environmental campaigns by using emotionally resonant messages and highlighting gratitude. Filling important gaps, this research explores mechanisms driving sustainable behaviors in line with strategies to achieve net zero emissions.
Battery-Assisted Trolleybuses: Effect of Battery Energy Utilization Ratio on Overall Traction Energy Consumption
Authors: Kendra Martin , Pribula Daniel , Skrúcaný Tomáš , Blažeková Oľga , Stoilova Svetla
Published: December 2024

Urban public transport companies worldwide are introducing environmentally friendly bus solutions, and in cities with an existing trolleybus network, battery-assisted trolleybuses are an efficient alternative. Equipped with a traction battery, these vehicles allow a short range outside of the trolley lines and on-board recuperation, and they combine the advantages of electric buses and trolleybuses without the need for costly infrastructure expansions. Two similar battery-assisted trolleybuses are in operation in Žilina, where the unitary traction energy consumption has been observed to decrease as a function of the battery-powered and on-trolley-line vehicle run ratio. This theory was confirmed by statistical regression analysis of real operational data for one year of operation in different situations. This research also includes an analysis of battery-assisted trolleybuses’ operation on conventional trolleybus lines, which brought surprising findings, as well as an analysis of other selected indicators that can be dependent on the battery run ratio. These findings can contribute to reducing traction energy consumption by simply modifying the operating technologies without the need for extensive investment in infrastructure or vehicle equipment. This research is pilot research ready for in-depth research.
Sum-Frequency Generation Spectroscopy at Aqueous Electrochemical Interfaces
Authors: Pham Ba Lich , Ranjbari Alireza , Tadjeddine Abderrahmane , Dalstein Laetitia , Humbert Christophe
Published: December 2024

The electrochemical interface (EI) is the determining factor in the yield and mechanism of sustainable energy storage and conversion systems due to its intrinsic functionality as a dynamic junction with the symmetry breaking of the molecular arrangement for complex reaction fields of mass transport and heterogeneous electron transfer. At the EI, the externally applied potential stimulus drives the formation of the electrical double layer (EDL) and governs the adsorption of interfacial adsorbate species in aqueous electrolyte solutions. Water and its aqueous electrolyte systems are integral and quintessential elements in the technological innovation of various fields such as environmental sciences, electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and biochemistry. Although deciphering the structure and orientation of water molecules at the electrode–electrolyte interface in a quantitative analysis is of utmost importance, assessing chemical phenomena at the buried EI was rather challenging due to the intricacy of selecting interface-specific methodologies. Based on the non-centrosymmetry of the interfaces’ electronic properties, sum-frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy has been manifested to be specifically well suited for probing the EI with detailed and comprehensive characteristics of adsorbates’ chemical structures and electrochemical events. In this review, we holistically engage in a methodical and scrupulous assessment of the fundamental EDL models and navigate towards the connection of the renowned Stark effect and potential dependence of SFG spectra at heterogeneous electrode–electrolyte interfaces. We dissect the development, advantages, and available geometrical configurations of in situ SFG spectroscopy in harnessing the EI. A broad spectrum of applications in unraveling the water orientations and rationalizing the convoluted mechanism of fuel-generated electrocatalytic reactions with particular encumbrances and potential resolutions is underscored by leveraging SFG spectroscopy.
Treatment and Prevention of HPV-Associated Skin Tumors by HPV Vaccination
Authors: Meyer Thomas , Stockfleth Eggert
Published: December 2024

HPV-associated dermatological diseases include benign lesions like cutaneous warts and external genital warts. In addition, HPV infection is associated with the development of epithelial skin cancers, in particular cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). In contrast to anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers caused by mucosal HPV types of genus alpha papillomavirus, cSCC-associated HPV types belong to the genus beta papillomavirus. Currently available HPV vaccines that target mucosal HPV types associated with anogenital cancer and genital warts are type-specific and provide no cross-protection against beta HPV. When implementing vaccination to beta HPV to prevent skin tumors, it must be considered that acquisition of these HPV types occurs early in childhood and that the risk for cSCC increases with growing age and decreasing immune surveillance. Thus, individuals considered for beta HPV vaccination usually have pre-existing infection and are largely immunocompromised. On the other hand, worldwide increasing incidence rates of epithelial skin cancer reflect an urgent need for skin cancer prevention measures. Based on the pathogenic involvement of beta HPV, vaccination may represent a promising prevention strategy. Indeed, various procedures of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccination have been developed, and some of them have shown efficiency in animal models. Thus far, however, none of these vaccine candidates has been approved for application in humans.
A Qualitative Analysis of Rural Community Vaccination Barriers During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: McKeirnan Kimberly C. , Undeberg Megan R. , Zelenko Skylar , Meratnia Ghazal
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Rural communities in the United States experience increased disparity of care for both general healthcare services and access to routine vaccines. Previous research has indicated a 40% lower vaccination rate in rural communities, as compared to urban counterparts. Having a better understanding regarding factors influencing lower vaccination rates in rural areas could help public health officials prepare for future vaccination efforts. This research sought to gather and evaluate the opinions of people who live and work in rural areas regarding barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Methods: A semi-structured qualitative key informant interview design was utilized by researchers to gather opinions from university Extension staff in Washington State. Interview transcripts were analyzed using the Theory of Planned Behavior (ToPB) framework to evaluate COVID-19 vaccination-related intentions and motivational factors that the Extension staff observed among rural populations in their communities. Results: Twenty-one participants representing 34 out of the 40 Extension offices responded and were interviewed during fall 2023. Using the ToPB constructs, nine barriers were identified. Attitude-related barriers included the following: inherent social distancing in rural location negating vaccine necessity; lack of early vaccine availability in rural locales; concerns regarding ineffectiveness of the vaccine; and inadequate dissemination of vaccine information to non-English language speakers and those with limited access to technology. Subjective norm barriers included the following: perception of exclusion of rural populations’ unique needs during design and implementation of vaccine mandates; exertion of social pressures on rural individuals’ vaccine uptake decision; and highly visible breakdown in standard trust in core community institutions and leadership. Barriers related to loss of perceived behavioral control included vaccine mandates impacting self-perceived loss of autonomy and limitations in vaccine technology information impacting perception of vaccine safety. Conclusions: By identifying barriers to vaccination in rural communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, future outreach efforts can be designed to improve intention and lead to stronger vaccination uptake.
Construction of the First Russian Recombinant Live Attenuated Vaccine Strain and Evaluation of Its Protection Efficacy Against Two African Swine Fever Virus Heterologous Strains of Serotype 8
Authors: Koltsov Andrey , Sukher Mikhail , Krutko Sergey , Belov Sergey , Korotin Alexey , Rudakova Sofia , Morgunov Sergey , Koltsova Galina
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The spread of African swine fever virus (ASFV) has led to major economic losses to pork worldwide. In Russia, there are no developed or registered vaccines against ASFV genotype II, which is associated with numerous ASFV outbreaks in populations of domestic pigs and wild boars in the country. Methods: We introduced deletions of the six MGF360 and MGF505 genes of the ASFV virulent Stavropol_01/08 strain, isolated in Russia in 2008. Results: We show here that this deletion did lead to full attenuation of the ASFV virulent Stavropol_01/08 strain. Animals intramuscularly inoculated with 104 HAD50 of ΔMGF360/505_Stav developed a strong immune response and short period of viremia (at 3–7 days post-inoculation). Recombinant ΔMGF360/505_Stav strain provides complete protection of pigs against the ASFV parental Stavropol_01/08 strain (103 HAD50). Therefore, in our experiment, we did not detect the genome of both the virulent and the recombinant strains in the blood and organs post-challenge with the Stavropol_01/08. In contrast, we found only partial protection (40%) of the ΔMGF360/505_Stav-immunized pigs against challenge with the ASFV heterologous Rhodesia strain. Additionally, the surviving animals had a prolonged fever, and their condition was depressed for most of the experiment. Conclusions: Thus, the ASFV recombinant ΔMGF360/505_Stav strain is the first live attenuated vaccine (LAV) in Russia that induces complete protection in pigs challenged with the highly virulent, epidemiologically relevant strains genotype II and serotype 8. However, this ASF LAV is not able to provide a high level of protection against other variants of serotype 8.
Durability of Adaptive Immunity in Immunocompetent and Immunocompromised Patients Across Different Respiratory Viruses: RSV, Influenza, and SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Livieratos Achilleas , Schiro Lars Erik , Gogos Charalambos , Akinosoglou Karolina
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives. Research on respiratory virus immunity duration post-vaccination reveals variable outcomes. This study performed a literature review to assess the efficacy and longevity of immune protection post-vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), with a focus on immunocompromised populations. Specific objectives included examining humoral and cellular immune responses and exploring the impact of booster doses and hybrid immunity on extending protection. Methods. A literature review was conducted focusing on studies published from January 2014 to November 2024. The search targeted adaptive immunity post-vaccination, natural immunity, and hybrid immunity for SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and RSV. Selection criteria emphasized human populations, adaptive immunity outcomes, and immunocompromised individuals. The PICO framework guided the analysis, culminating in a detailed review of 30 studies. Results. SARS-CoV-2 vaccines exhibited robust initial antibody responses, which waned significantly within six months, necessitating frequent boosters. Influenza and RSV vaccines similarly showed declines in immunity, though some influenza vaccines demonstrated moderate durability. Hybrid immunity, arising from combined natural infection and vaccination, provided more resilient and lasting protection than vaccination alone, especially against emerging variants. Immunocompromised individuals consistently exhibited reduced durability in adaptive immune responses across all studied viruses. Challenges include rapid viral mutations, limiting the broad protection of current vaccines. Conclusions. Immune durability varies significantly across virus types and patient populations. Frequent boosters and hybrid immunity are critical to optimizing protection, particularly for vulnerable groups. The findings underscore the need for adaptable vaccination strategies and advancements in vaccine design to counter rapidly mutating respiratory pathogens effectively.
Measles Among the Foreign-Born Population Residing in Spain, 2014–2022: Missed Opportunities for Vaccination
Authors: López-Perea Noemí , López-Cuadrado Teresa , Fernández-García Aurora , Echevarría Juan E. , Masa-Calles Josefa
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Spain has been in a measles elimination phase since 2014. No evidence exists about the distribution of measles cases among the population born outside Spain. The aim of this study was thus to describe the epidemiological situation of measles, stratified by place of birth, during the post-elimination period in Spain. Methods: This is a retrospective study of confirmed measles cases reported to RENAVE between 2014 and 2022. A descriptive analysis of case characteristics (sex, age group, vaccination status, imported case) was performed, was well as an analysis of temporal trends and geographic distribution in measles incidence rate (IR; cases/million inhabitants). All analyses were stratified by place of origin (Spain born vs. born outside Spain). We then performed a sensitivity analysis of those born outside Spain, with the representation of Kaplan–Meier curves taking into account the year of arrival in the country until the onset of measles. Results: Between 2014 and 2022, 951 measles cases were reported in Spain (overall IR: 2.3). Among these, 18.6% (177 cases, IR: 3.0) were born outside Spain. The IRs show differences (p < 0.001) in terms of distribution by age group and origin. By age group, children under 5 years had the highest IR, but adults aged 30 years and older reported the highest proportion of cases. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) was 5-fold higher among foreign-born children under 5 years than among native-born children. The measles time trend shows the highest peak in 2019 for foreign-born and native-born (IR: 8.6 and 5.4, respectively), consistent with the European-wide scenario, while only one case of measles was reported in 2022. Geographical variability in incidence rates by region was observed: Catalonia and the Valencian Community accumulated the highest proportion of cases throughout the study period. Among those born outside Spain, the median time from arrival to onset of rash was 6 years. Conclusions: The incidence of measles is 40% higher in Spain’s foreign-born population than in its native-born population. Taking into account the increasing migrant population in Spain, we consider that public health efforts need to be directed towards susceptible groups of people. In this context of advanced elimination, specific interventions for identifying and attending the most vulnerable populations should be designed and implemented.
Study on a Geomorphic Indicator for Evaluating Sediment Transport Capacity in Mountainous Rivers
Authors: Nagumo Naoko , Harada Daisuke , Egashira Shinji
Published: December 2024

Flooding of water, sediment, and driftwood and its associated landform changes often occurs downstream of debris-flow deposition zones in small, mountainous river basins. This type of flooding occurs due to a sudden decrease in the sediment transport capacity of river channels, resulting in considerable damage. Despite the significant need for appropriate countermeasures to mitigate damage, it has been a challenge to plan and implement these across all river basins at risk of these hazards. However, if a simple but reliable tool is available to identify hazardous areas in advance, this would be extremely useful for prioritizing such areas and designing and implementing the required measures. To this end, this paper examines the geomorphic characteristics of recent flood events in Japan and proposes a method for identifying hazardous areas due to inundation by flood flows with sediment. We first explain the occurrence of sediment inundation by focusing on longitudinal changes in sediment transport capacity using the geomorphic indicator defined as the product of the drainage area A and bed slope i. In addition, we investigate the longitudinal profiles of the sediment transport capacity along the study channels using a one-dimensional governing equation for flood flows and, based on the results, discuss that finding that the computed longitudinal profiles of the sediment transport capacity are consistent with the longitudinal distribution of the Ai. Our findings indicate that the Ai is an effective indicator for identifying areas prone to inundation by flood flows with sediment.
Water Resource Management: Hydrological Modelling, Hydrological Cycles, and Hydrological Prediction
Authors: Baran-Gurgul Katarzyna , Rutkowska Agnieszka
Published: December 2024

This editorial provides a definitive review of ten articles published in the Special Issue of the journal Water, entitled “Water Resource Management: Hydrological Modelling, Hydrological Cycles, and Hydrological Prediction” [...]
Unsafe Havens: The Meaning and Use of Springs in the Central Region of Afar Province in Ethiopia
Authors: Fensham Roderick , Bil’a Ali Ahmed , Idris Adem Mohammed , Gebrehiwot Kflay , Fetahi Tadesse , Estifanos Getacher Beyene
Published: December 2024

Background: We explore how springs and their pastures are utilised by nomadic pastoralists and how they influence interchange and conflict between the custodians of the springs and the society of pastoralists in the broader region. Methods: The custodians of three spring locations in the Afar region of Ethiopia were interviewed to identify the advantages, and the challenges, of having springs on a pastoral estate. Results: The springs provide permanent water and health benefits, are used for cooking, and provide permanent pasture for livestock. In the Dobi Valley, the groundwater supporting the springs supports a population of the palm garayto (Hyphaene thebaica), which provides thatch and a liquor derived from the sap. The custodians of the springs are baaro-mara for their homelands and they welcome and provide access to the resources of the spring to Afar outsiders, gurro-mara. Recent invasions by the Somali Issa tribe have resulted in the deaths and displacement of Afar residents at Alalo-bad and Teo. The prickly shrub Prosopis juliflora has become another invasive threat with great impacts on the livelihood of the baaro-mara at two locations. Conclusions: Springs are oases where permanent water provides perennial resources in a semi-desert. However, the tenure of these precious havens can be subject to tribal contest and the resources of the springs have been recently undermined by invasion of a plant from another continent. The removal of the incipient population of Prosopis juliflora should be a priority before it proliferates further.
Assessment and Prediction of Groundwater Vulnerability Based on Land Use Change—A Case Study of the Central Urban Area of Zhengzhou
Authors: Yuan Wenchao , Wang Zhiyu , Zhang Tianen , Liu Zelong , Ma Yan , Xiong Yanna , An Fengxia
Published: December 2024

Driven by the rapid advancement of the economy and urbanization, substantial alterations in land use patterns have taken place, exerting certain impacts on groundwater. This study examines the land use changes in Zhengzhou’s central urban area from 2000 to 2020 and projects these changes to 2030 using the PLUS model. It optimizes the groundwater vulnerability assessment methodology from two key aspects, namely the evaluation indicators and the associated weights, to enhance its suitability for the study area. This study employs a multi-indicator and dual-method validation approach to verify the groundwater vulnerability assessment results, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the findings. Urban, rural, and construction lands increased significantly, while paddy fields, drylands, and forests decreased. The 2030 prediction suggests a continuation of these trends. The groundwater vulnerability in 2020 correlated strongly with the groundwater quality, particularly with chloride ions (AUC = 0.804, Spearman’s rho = 0.83). The 2030 projection indicates a minimal change in the vulnerability distribution but anticipates an increase in high- and very-high-vulnerability areas, particularly in regions with land use changes, potentially increasing the groundwater contamination risk. This suggests the need for targeted groundwater protection policies to mitigate contamination risks.
Exploring Urban Environment Heterogeneity: Impact of Urban Sprawl on Charging Infrastructure Demand over Time
Authors: Hildebrand Niklas , Kummer Sebastian
Published: December 2024

The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is hindered by the insufficient development of charging infrastructure (CI) networks, particularly in urban areas. The existing literature highlights significant advancements in highway CI modeling, yet urban-specific models remain underdeveloped, due to the complexity of diverse driver behaviors and evolving environmental factors. To address this gap, this study investigates the influence of urban sprawl on future urban CI demand. Using a vector field analysis methodology, we first define the urban environment to capture its heterogeneity. A conceptual framework is then developed to analyze how changes in urban environments affect critical factors influencing CI demand. The results demonstrate that urban sprawl significantly impacts key variables shaping CI demand, including population distribution, transportation patterns, and land use. To quantify these impacts, geospatial metrics are derived from highly cited literature and integrated into the analysis, offering a novel approach to incorporating sprawl effects into CI planning. This study concludes that urban sprawl has a profound influence on future CI demand and emphasizes the importance of monitoring geospatial metrics over time. The proposed methodology provides a theoretical framework that enables stakeholders to anticipate changes in CI demand, thereby facilitating more effective infrastructure planning to accommodate urban sprawl.
Tesla Log Data Analysis Approach from a Digital Forensics Perspective
Authors: Lee Jung-Hwan , Lim Seong Ho , Hyeon Bumsu , Jeon Oc-Yeub , Park Jong Jin , Park Nam In
Published: December 2024

Modern vehicles are equipped with various electronic control units (ECUs) for safety, entertainment, and autonomous driving. These ECUs operate independently according to their respective roles and generate considerable data. However, owing to capacity and security concerns, most of these data are not stored. In contrast, Tesla vehicles, equipped with multiple sensors and designed under the software-defined vehicle (SDV) concept, collect, store, and periodically transmit data to dedicated servers. The data stored inside and outside the vehicle by the manufacturer can be used for various purposes and can provide numerous insights to digital forensics researchers investigating incidents/accidents. In this study, various data stored inside and outside of Tesla vehicles are described sequentially from a digital forensics perspective. First, we identify the location and range of the obtainable storage media. Second, we explain how the data are acquired. Third, we describe how the acquired data are analyzed. Fourth, we verify the analyzed data by comparing them with one another. Finally, the cross-analysis of various data obtained from the actual accident vehicles and the data provided by the manufacturer revealed consistent trends across the datasets. Although the number of data points recorded during the same timeframe differed, the overall patterns remained consistent. This process enhanced the reliability of the vehicle data and improved the accuracy of the accident investigation.
TRAFFIC FLOW PREDICTION BASED ON CONVOLUTIONAL NEURAL NETWORK MODEL
Authors:   Don State Technical University, Jiang Jixiao , Feofilova Anastasia Alexandrovna ,   Don State Technical University, Shevtsova Anastasia Gennad’evna ,   Belgorod State Technological University, Vasilyeva Victoria Vladimirovna ,   Oryol State University
Published: December 2024

Traffic flow prediction mainly uses traffic flow data obtained by intelligent transportation systems to predict future traffic flows to better plan traffic. Because the traffic flow prediction model based on neural network can predict the traffic status of a single road section very well. Therefore, in view of the complex and uncertain characteristics of urban road traffic flow, this paper uses traffic flow short-term prediction theory and convolutional neural network (CNN) to analyze and predict urban road traffic flow.
TRANSPORTATION ACCESSIBILITY ASSESSMENT BASED ON INTERCHANGEABILITY
Authors:   Ural State University of Railway Transport, Gaisin Ivan Antonovich , Martynenko Alexander Valeryevich ,   Ural State University of Railway Transport
Published: December 2024

Various foreign methods and tools used to study the problems of transport accessibility are considered. Transport data for a certain period are collected, on the basis of which the transport accessibility of the route network of Ekaterinburg is analyzed. A methodology for assessing transportation accessibility based on the indicator of continuity is proposed. Python with libraries designed to process large data sets and visualize the results was used in the work.
Formación profesional de directores y gestión de escuelas públicas
Authors: Cóndor Surichaqui Eva Elsa , Collahua Rupaylla Vivian , Matos Juarez Analy Solange , Condor Surichaqui Sarita Silvia
Published: December 2024

La administración de instituciones educativas y el establecimiento de procedimientos de alta calidad en la comunidad escolar exigen habilidades especializadas por parte de sus líderes. Estas demandas implican la aplicación de procesos cognitivos complejos. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar la influencia de la formación profesional de los directores en la gestión de escuelas. Se empleó un enfoque cuantitativo, con un diseño no experimental, de tipo básico, transversal y correlacional-causal. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 50 profesores de dos escuelas de Lima. La técnica utilizada fue la encuesta y el instrumento, un cuestionario. Los resultados evidencian una influencia significativa de la formación profesional de los directores en la gestión escolar.
El desarrollo de las capacidades coordinativas en niños de primaria
Authors: Luyo Auccatoma Linda Cristalina , Gutiérrez Huamaní Oscar
Published: December 2024

El desarrollo de las capacidades coordinativas es esencial para el desempeño motriz, cognitivo y afectivo de los niños, especialmente en edades tempranas. Estas capacidades incluyen equilibrio, orientación espacio-temporal, ritmo, reacción, diferenciación kinestésica y acoplamiento motor, fundamentales en la vida cotidiana y en disciplinas deportivas. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar la importancia de las capacidades coordinativas en el contexto educativo, destacando su impacto en el desarrollo integral y el desempeño motriz de los educandos. Se utilizó una metodología de revisión bibliográfica, basada en fuentes recientes, para explorar la relación entre las capacidades coordinativas y su influencia en el ámbito escolar y deportivo. Usando los “Capacidades coordinativas”, “Beneficio del deporte”, “Equilibrio”, “Actividad física en niños de primaria”, “Desarrollo”, “Educación”, “Education”, “Coordinación”, “Development” y “Coordination development”. Se concluye que estas capacidades, cuando se desarrollan desde la niñez, mejoran significativamente el desempeño físico, motriz y cognitivo, resaltando la necesidad de implementar estrategias pedagógicas efectivas en el sistema educativo nacional para promover su adecuado desarrollo.