bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the Spatial-Temporal Evolution and Driving Mechanism of Coupling Coordination among Digital-Tourism-Environment in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Song Hang , Zhang Xincheng , Wu Xinyang
Published: June 2024

The digital economy, the tourism industry, and ecological protection are closely related, which holds paramount significance for regional sustainable development. Based on panel data from 2011 to 2021 in the Yellow River Basin, the study scrutinizes the spatial and temporal variances and driving factors of the three-system coupling coordination degree. The results indicate that: (1) The development level of the three systems is significantly different. The coupling coordination degree shifts from imminent imbalance to marginal coordination, but there is a noticeable expansion in spatial disparities. (2) The coupling coordination degree of non-resource cities significantly surpasses that of resource cities, and regenerative cities outperform growing, mature, and declining cities. The overall pattern of the provincial capital cities “center-periphery”, decreased the coordination characteristics. The spatial correlation of coupling coordination degree presents two aggregation patterns of “high-high” and “low-low”, and the overall correlation gradually weakens. (3) The driving factors reveal that the economic driving force is the largest, followed by the internal driving force, and the government regulatory force and scientific and technological driving force are relatively weak. Consequently, this paper proposes to strengthen the integration and penetration function of the digital economy and have it play the linkage role between regions. This lays down a solid foundation for crafting scientifically informed policies aimed at achieving regional sustainable development.
Choice between Sustainable versus Conventional Investments—Relative Efficiency Analysis from Global and Regional Stock Markets
Authors: Rehman Mohd Ziaur , Nain Md Zulquar , Alhashim Mohammed , Bhat Javed Ahmad
Published: June 2024

We use the daily data from 1 October 2010 to 1 March 2021 on the stock prices of several global, regional, and country-specific ESG indices of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index family (DJSI) and MSCI family to analyse the relative performance of sustainable indices (ESG) and corresponding conventional benchmarks. In terms of classic risk and return characteristics and modern portfolio metrics, we report mixed evidence with some sustainability indices marginally outperforming the traditional benchmarks and others staying at parity. Regionally, the evidence is heterogeneous; the Pan Arab, the Middle East (including Israel), the United States, Emerging Markets, and Europe indices reported a slightly superior performance and those belonging to Asia Pacific, Emerging Africa, and Latin America marginally underperformed compared to their conventional counterparts. The findings of this study imply that sustainable investments appear to be an encouraging investment option, although their progress has not been substantial. For an appreciable outperformance of sustainable investments, a more conducive regulatory framework should be established, including robust incentivizing policies concerning tax rebates or low capital costs.
Towards Sustainable Textiles for a Safer Planet: Main Topics
Authors: Militký Jiří , Křemenáková Dana , Venkataraman Mohanapriya , Aneja Arun Pal
Published: June 2024

The textile branch traditionally uses a surplus of energy, consuming an enormous amount of water, and is responsible for the deterioration of the environment. New solutions are formally focused on a circular economy with an impetus on sustainable development and a world with zero waste. In reality, the aims of circular economy often do not coincide with sustainability issues, and sustainability is, in fact, narrowed to nature-created products (especially fibers) and not renewable resources. The main aims of this article are to critically discuss sustainability aspects of fiber development, textile design, production, use, and recycling or waste treatment. It is demonstrated that despite improvements in sustainability, comprehensive solutions need focused action of specialists from different disciplines with the same target, i.e., real sustainability for a future world. New machinery for the production of textiles without limitations to their thickness is one typical example of the approach to better sustainability. One of the key issues is the selection of sustainable fibers for future textile applications. The benefits and problems of replacing synthetic fibers with natural ones are discussed in detail. The recent techniques of textile waste treatment are presented, and problems with microplastics releasing from textiles are shown.
The Use of Digital Technology for Sustainable Teaching and Learning
Authors: Shadiev Rustam , Reynolds Barry Lee , Li Rui
Published: June 2024

Sustainable teaching and learning encompass practices where educators equip students with the skills and strategies needed for lifelong, independent learning beyond the confinement of a traditional classroom and independent of a sole knowledgeable instructor [...]
Substantiation of the Use of a Flexible Chain-Type Subsoiler for Improving the Agrotechnological Properties of Soil
Authors: Kondratiuk Andriy , Šarauskis Egidijus , Sheludchenko Bohdan , Kukharets Savelii , Jasinskas Algirdas , Zabrodskyi Pavlo , Shubenko Vladyslav
Published: June 2024

Technogenic influence on agricultural soils leads to the transformation of their morphological features, significantly worsens their agrochemical, physical, mechanical and agrotechnological properties, prevents the optimal use of potential soil fertility and, as a result, leads to a decrease in crop yield. Mechanical soil decompaction when using various types of subsoilers, including the flexible chain-type working body (the chain), is used to prevent the negative consequences of technogenic influence. According to the results of the analytical calculations, the proportionality factor of the chain length, which determines the ratio of the width of the plow grip to the chain length of a flexible subsoiler, was established. The specified coefficient is proportional and equals 2.4. The use of the specified coefficient allows us, at the stage of the development of the design and technological documentation, to determine the main design parameter of the flexible subsoiler, which is the length of the used chain depending on the width of the plow grip. The surface of the field cultivated with the experimental tillage tool meets the requirements for sowing the agricultural crops without performing additional technological operations.
A Bibliometric and Scientometric Network Analysis of Occupational Safety and Health in the Electric Power Industry: Future Implication of Digital Pathways
Authors: Wong Ka Po , Meng Xiangcheng
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: The demand for electricity in rural and urban areas has given rise to numerous related industries, resulting in perilous working conditions and a significant number of safety accidents for workers. In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on improving occupational safety and health in the electric power industry. However, the lack of a systematic review or the integration of disaggregated studies has hindered our understanding of the state of the development of this research field. This study aims to provide bibliometric and scientometric network analyses and explore the untapped potential of digital pathways. (2) Methods: A bibliometric analysis focused on the research cooperation, author keywords, and journal co-citation patterns of studies was carried out, while a temporal trend analysis was employed to identify topical focuses and trends for further research on the occupational safety and health of electrical workers. Papers were searched for across three databases, namely Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Using “occupational safety and health” and “electric power industry” as keywords, the articles published from 1991 to 2022 were retrieved. (3) Results: A total of 608 articles published from 1991 to 2022 were collected for the bibliometric analysis. Four clusters were successfully recognized in the search results after adopting the process of cluster analysis based on a total of 608 articles. As for the countries, most of the publications and citations came from the United States. The most frequent keywords were safety, exposure assessment, electrocution, and electrical injury. (4) Conclusions: This is the first study to highlight occupational safety and health in the electric power industry and provides valuable insights into the knowledge structure, emerging trends, and future directions through the lens of digital pathways. This study sheds light on the importance of digital pathways in enhancing occupational safety and health practices within the industry. The findings contribute to the fields of occupational safety management and health promotion, providing a foundation for future research and interventions aimed at improving safety conditions and promoting the well-being of personnel in the electric power industry.
Optimizing Airport Runway Capacity and Sustainability through the Introduction of Rapid Exit Taxiways: A Case Study
Authors: Maltinti Francesca , Flore Michela , Pigozzi Franco , Coni Mauro
Published: June 2024

This contribution arises from the need to respond to the increased air demand of an airport with a sustainable approach that minimizes the land consumption of new runways and reduces the fuel burn and emissions associated with aircraft. A new methodology is presented for designing Rapid Exit Taxiways (RETs), which is applied in improving the runway capacity of Costa Smeralda Airport following both the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines. The optimal scenario resulted from a combination of these guidelines. Using this new approach, it is demonstrated that, through both the introduction of RETs and their positioning along the runway, the hourly capacity of the runway can effectively be improved, consequently enhancing the airport capacity and reducing the runway occupancy time and thus fuel burn and emissions. Moreover, the presence of RETs increases the infrastructure resilience, since airplanes can clear the runway faster in case of flooding in risk areas.
The Role of Landscape Architecture Profession Recognition in the Context of Facing Contemporary Challenges
Authors: Gkoltsiou Aikaterini , Forczek-Brataniec Urszula
Published: June 2024

Landscape, as an essential component of quality of life for humans all over the world, is undergoing a period of rapid and profound changes, mainly due to such phenomena as climate challenges and social crises. Landscape Architects, more than ever, are expected to play a significant role in responding to current environmental and social challenges. Although many claim that Landscape Architecture is the profession of the 21st century, it is still struggling to gain proper recognition worldwide and in Europe. In the meantime, numerous legal instruments have been developed to facilitate the regulation of various professions in Europe. This paper aims to map the status and factors affecting the regulation process across Europe and investigate the role of legislation and legal recognition regarding Landscape Architect’s services, their professional title, and mobility. In order to achieve such goals, a short literature overview of the most recent and relevant research of mapping the profession and studies undertaken by IFLA Europe was performed as well as a collection of data for the survey and the composition of a questionnaire that was sent to all Delegates of the National Associations. The results were compiled into separate documents for the regulated and non-regulated countries. They present the specificities of the profession that constitute the basis for its regulation, the importance of the legal recognition of the profession for a stronger professional environment for Landscape Architects, and the catalyst role of legislation determining professional recognition.
Study on the Dynamic Change of Land Use in Megacities and Its Impact on Ecosystem Services and Modeling Prediction
Authors: Yan Xinyu , Huang Muyi , Tang Yuru , Guo Qin , Wu Xue , Zhang Guozhao
Published: June 2024

Under the background of rapid urbanization, strengthening the research on the response and dynamic mechanism of ecosystem services to land use is conducive to the optimization of land space and ecological restoration and governance in megacities. Using Hefei City as a case study, we examined specific ecosystem services and analyzed how water yield, habitat quality, carbon storage, and soil conservation changed over time from 2000 to 2020. We utilized spatial information technology and the InVEST model to assess these changes. Additionally, we developed a comprehensive ecological service index (CES) and used Geodetector and regression models to investigate how ecosystem services responded to land use. In addition, we utilized the Patch-generating Land Use Simulation Model (PLUS) to simulate the spatial distribution of land use in 2030. This was performed under four different scenarios: natural development (ND), urban development (UD), cultivated land protection (CP), and ecological protection (EP). Furthermore, we assessed the effects of these land-use changes on ecosystem service functions by integrating the PLUS results with InVEST. The findings indicate the following: (1) between 2000 and 2020, farmland consistently remained the dominant land-use type in Hefei City while construction land experienced significant growth. Land-use conversion was prevalent during this period, and each ecological indicator exhibited noticeable geographic variation; (2) during the past 20 years, the comprehensive ecosystem service index (CES) exhibited clear spatial clustering patterns. The different types of land use showed significant quantitative relationships with CES. Specifically, cultivated land, forest land, grassland, and water area had positive correlations, while construction land had a negative correlation. Geodetector analysis revealed that the proportion of ecological land use had the greatest impact on the spatial differentiation of CES, followed by population density; (3) according to the PLUS simulation, the UD scenario results in a significant conversion of cultivated land and grassland into construction land, leading to the greatest decrease in CES. In the ND scenario, the areas with decreasing CES are mostly areas that have been converted from other land types to construction land. In contrast, the EP scenario shows an increase in forest land and grassland, which promotes the enhancement of multiple ecosystem service functions simultaneously. This indicates that the EP scenario is the most favorable for sustainable land-use development. The study investigates the impact of land-use changes on ecosystem services and evaluates the sustainability of regional land use. The findings have both theoretical and practical significance for effectively managing land use and regulating ecological functions in large cities.
Integrated Impacts of Soil Salinity and Drought Stresses on the Decomposition of Plant Residues
Authors: Qadeer Abdul , Wakeel Abdul , Cheema Sardar Alam , Shahzad Tanvir , Sanaullah Muhammad
Published: June 2024

Soil salinity and drought are major environmental challenges that significantly affect soil functioning and soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition. Despite their importance, the combined effects of drought and salinity on residue decomposition are not well understood. This study addresses this gap by evaluating the decomposition of maize residue under salinity and drought stresses over a 75-day incubation period at 20 °C under controlled conditions. The experiment included two moisture levels: optimum moisture at 80% water-holding capacity (WHC) and drought conditions at 30% WHC, in both normal (ECe = 1.48 dS m−1) and saline (ECe = 8 dS m−1) soils, with 5 g DM kg−1 soil maize residues mixed in. A control treatment without maize residue addition was also included. The results indicated that salinity stress reduced maize residue decomposition, as evidenced by lower soil respiration, decay constant, metabolic quotient (qCO2), and soil extracellular enzyme activities. While drought did not affect total soil respiration in the presence of maize residue, it significantly decreased soil extracellular enzyme activities and decay constant rates. Combined drought and salinity stress further diminished maize residue decomposition, marked by reduced soil respiration, decay constant, microbial biomass carbon, and soil extracellular enzyme activities, while dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and qCO2 increased significantly. Similarly, extracellular enzyme activities were significantly reduced under abiotic stresses and further diminished under combined stress conditions. In conclusion, the simultaneous occurrence of drought and salinity can have compounded detrimental effects on microbial functioning, particularly in the presence of fresh plant residues.
Digital Leadership and Sustainable Competitive Advantage: Leveraging Green Absorptive Capability and Eco-Innovation in Tourism and Hospitality Businesses
Authors: Hussein Hamada , Albadry Omaima Munawar , Mathew Viju , Al-Romeedy Bassam Samir , Alsetoohy Omar , Abou Kamar Mahmoud , Khairy Hazem Ahmed
Published: June 2024

This study explores the influence of digital leadership (DL) on sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) in tourism and hospitality businesses, focusing on green absorptive capability (GAC) and eco-innovation (EI) as mediators. This study focused on middle-line management in travel agencies and hotels in Saudi Arabia. A total of 323 valid responses were collected and analyzed using WarpPLS 7.0, a PLS-SEM analysis tool. DL positively affected SCA, GAC, and EI. In addition, SCA was positively impacted by GAC and EI. Furthermore, this study found that GAC and EI significantly mediated the DL→SCA relationship. This study enhances the Dynamic Capabilities Theory, offering valuable insights for tourism and hospitality managers to utilize digital strategies and environmental initiatives for eco-conscious market competitiveness.
A New Methodology, Based on a CAD System, for Evaluating Partial and Global Asymmetries in Deer Antlers from Hunting Quality Assessment Data
Authors: Montalvo-Gil Juan Manuel , Azorit Concepción , García-Molina Diego Francisco , Valderrama-Zafra José Manuel , Rubio-Paramio Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2024

In the field of biology, the ’biomarkers’ of the different animal species are of great relevance, as well as the relationships between them and the quality of the habitat. A study was proposed, analysing the antlers of the Iberian deer, to measure the bilateral asymmetry of its branches. The antlers are characterised in a 3D CAD model of their axial structure obtained via photogrammetric restitution from two photographs. This method quantifies the global and partial asymmetries of the antler’s structural features. The research evaluated 48 deer antlers from hunting days and taxidermy workshops. To quantify asymmetries, the measurements required are the same as those considered to assess the hunting quality of antlers. Bilateral deviations are estimated for each structural trait and the whole antler. Preliminary results showed a convergence between the values of global asymmetry and hunting quality. The methodology proved to be fast, inexpensive, and easy to implement, which facilitates its use in future asymmetry studies of other biological elements of animal or plant origin. It is only necessary that the starting data, which is the bilateral axial structure of the analysed element, is characterised in a 3D model.
A New Fuzzy Bayesian Inference Approach for Risk Assessments
Authors: Xu Jintao , Sui Yang , Yu Tao , Ding Rui , Dai Tao , Zheng Mengyan
Published: June 2024

Bayesian network (BN) inference is an important statistical tool with additive symmetry. However, BN inference cannot deal with the uncertain, fuzzy, random, and conflicting information from experts’ knowledge in the process of conducting a risk assessment. To tackle this issue, a new fuzzy BN inference approach for risk assessments was proposed based on cloud model (CM), interval type-2 fuzzy set (IT2 FS), interval type-2 fuzzy logic system (IT2 FLS), modified Dempster–Shafer (D-S) evidence theory (ET), and Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) methods along the following lines. Firstly, CM was integrated into IT2 FS, and CM-based IT2 FS (CM-IT2 FS) was defined in the IT2 FLS. Secondly, modified D-S ET was utilized to determine the CM-IT2 FS-based a priori probabilities, and the CM-IT2 FS-based BN model was established. Thirdly, the CM-IT2 FS-based a priori probabilities were reduced to the CM-IT1 FS-based ones using a type reducer in the IT2 FLS, LHS was applied to propose a new fuzzy BN inference algorithm, and then, the new algorithm was used in a typical case to perform the fuzzy BN positive inference for risk prediction and the fuzzy BN reverse inference for risk sensitivity analysis. Finally, the BN inference results were analyzed using the proposed algorithm and the two common BN inference algorithms, and the effectiveness of the proposed approach was validated. It can be concluded that the proposed approach was both accurate and promising.
Replay Attack Detection Using Integrated Glottal Excitation Based Group Delay Function and Cepstral Features
Authors: Chaudhari Amol , Shedge Dnyandeo , Bairagi Vinayak , Nanthaamornphong Aziz
Published: June 2024

The automatic speaker verification system is susceptible to replay attacks. Recent literature has focused on score-level integration of multiple features, phase information-based features, high frequency-based features, and glottal excitation for the detection of replay attacks. This work presents glottal excitation-based all-pole group delay function (GAPGDF) features for replay attack detection. The essence of a group delay function based on the all-pole model is to exploit information from the speech signal phase spectrum in an effective manner. Further, the performance of integrated high-frequency-based CQCC features with cepstral features, subband spectral centroid-based features (SCFC and SCMC), APGDF, and LPC-based features is evaluated on the ASVspoof 2017 version 2.0 database. On the development set, an EER of 3.08% is achieved, and on the evaluation set, an EER of 9.86% is achieved. The proposed GAPGDF features provide an EER of 10.5% on the evaluation set. Finally, integrated GAPGDF and GCQCC features provide an EER of 8.80% on the evaluation set. The computation time required for the ASV systems based on various integrated features is compared to ensure symmetry between the integrated features and the classifier.
Positive Radial Symmetric Solutions of Nonlinear Biharmonic Equations in an Annulus
Authors: Li Yongxiang , Yang Shengbin
Published: June 2024

This paper discusses the existence of positive radial symmetric solutions of the nonlinear biharmonic equation ▵2u=f(u,▵u) on an annular domain Ω in RN with the Navier boundary conditions u|∂Ω=0 and ▵u|∂Ω=0, where f:R+×R−→R+ is a continuous function. We present some some inequality conditions of f to obtain the existence results of positive radial symmetric solutions. These inequality conditions allow f(ξ,η) to have superlinear or sublinear growth on ξ,η as |(ξ,η)|→0 and ∞. Our discussion is mainly based on the fixed-point index theory in cones.
Innovative Thinking in Volunteer Organizations: Addressing the Impact of Psychological Ownership on Volunteer Organizational Commitment
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Jin , Chiu Shiu-Kuan
Published: June 2024

This study explores the impact of psychological ownership on volunteer commitment within volunteer organizations. By introducing psychological ownership as a new variable, this research aims to enhance volunteer commitment through improved management practices and innovations. The study involved a random sample of educational volunteers from primary schools, who completed questionnaires after being briefed by the researchers. An analysis of 212 valid responses revealed that psychological ownership significantly influences organizational commitment, with volunteer motivation acting as a partial mediator. Based on these findings, the study suggests two innovative strategies to promote volunteer commitment. First, developing a diverse knowledge base for volunteer managers to improve their leadership and collaboration skills. Second, integrating volunteers as a subsystem within the staff through decentralized decision making, thereby increasing their participation and sense of responsibility. These insights extend the concept of psychological ownership to volunteer settings, offering theoretical contributions and practical implications for enhancing volunteer retention rates and organizational effectiveness.
Macrophage Activation Syndrome in Viral Sepsis
Authors: Papageorgiou Despoina , Gogos Charalambos , Akinosoglou Karolina
Published: June 2024

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a life-threatening systemic hyperinflammatory syndrome triggered by various infections, particularly viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and malignancy. The condition is characterized by an increased production of proinflammatory cytokines resulting in a cytokine storm and has been associated with poor clinical outcomes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with severe manifestations developed features similar to those of MAS, although these characteristics remained well defined within the lung. Additionally, other viral infections including EBV, the herpes family of viruses, hepatitis viruses, influenza, HIV, and hemorrhagic fevers can be complicated by MAS. The diagnosis and management of the condition remain challenging due to the lack of consensus on specific guidelines, especially among the adult population. Currently, therapeutic options primarily rely on medications that are typically used to treat primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, such as corticosteroids and etoposide. In addition, cytokine-targeted therapies present promising treatment options. The objective of this review is to discuss the emergence of MAS in the context of viral infections including, but not limited to, its occurrence in COVID-19.
Intensified Circulation of Echovirus 11 after the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland: Detection of a Highly Pathogenic Virus Variant
Authors: Gad Beata , Kłosiewicz Paulina , Oleksiak Kinga , Krzysztoszek Arleta , Toczyłowski Kacper , Sulik Artur , Wieczorek Tobiasz , Wieczorek Magdalena
Published: June 2024

After the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe, a new highly pathogenic variant of echovirus 11 (E11) was detected. The aim of this study was to analyze the genetic diversity of Polish E11 environmental and clinical strains circulating between 2017 and 2023 as well as compare them with E11 strains isolated from severe neonatal sepsis cases reported in Europe between 2022 and 2023. Additionally, the study explores the effectiveness of environmental monitoring in tracking the spread of new variants. For this purpose, the complete sequences of the VP1 capsid protein gene were determined for 266 E11 strains isolated in Poland from 2017 to 2023, and phylogenetic analysis was performed. In the years 2017–2023, a significant increase in the detection of E11 strains was observed in both environmental and clinical samples in Poland. The Polish E11 strains represented three different genotypes, C3, D5 and E, and were characterized by a high diversity. In Poland, the intensive circulation of the new variant E11, responsible for severe neonatal infections with a high mortality in Europe, was detected in the years 2022–2023. This investigation demonstrates the important role of environmental surveillance in the tracking of enteroviruses circulation, especially in settings with limited clinical surveillance.
Immunogenetic Profile Associated with Patients Living with HIV-1 and Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) in the Brazilian Amazon Region
Authors: Costa Iran Barros , Santana-da-Silva Mayara Natália , Nogami Patrícia Yuri , Santos e Santos Carolinne de Jesus , Pereira Leonn Mendes Soares , França Eliane dos Santos , Freire Amaury Bentes Cunha , Ramos Francisco Lúzio de Paula , Monteiro Talita Antonia Furtado , Macedo Olinda , Sousa Rita Catarina Medeiros , Freitas Felipe Bonfim , Vallinoto Antonio Carlos Rosário , Brasil-Costa Igor
Published: June 2024

Viral coinfection among HIV-positive patients, coupled with the development of AIDS, remains a major public health problem. The synergism between the presence of HIV and other viruses has consequences in relation to changes in the severity of the infection, as well as changes in the natural course of both infections. Several polymorphisms present in genes that encode cytokines have a relevant influence on their transcription and consequently on the production of such immunological molecules. The present study evaluated the influence of SNPs located in the promoter regions of genes encoding the cytokines INF-ɣ, TNF, IL-6, IL-4, and IL-2, as well as their respective plasma concentrations, in patients infected with HIV and/or EBV in the state of Pará. Additionally, this study described the epidemiological profile and compared CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocyte counts among the groups studied. The associative analysis between the SNPs and plasma cytokine concentrations in different groups showed statistical relevance for three polymorphisms: rs2069762 (IL2), where the GG genotype demonstrated higher IL-2 levels in HIV mono-infected individuals; rs2243250 (IL4), where the CT genotype showed higher IL-4 levels in the control group; and rs2069705 (IFNG), where the TT genotype showed higher IFN-γ levels in the coinfected group. Regarding SNP associations with CD4+/CD8+ counts, significant findings were observed in HIV mono-infected individuals: the rs2069705 (IFNG) polymorphism was linked to higher CD4+ counts with the CT genotype, and rs1799964 (TNF) was associated with higher CD8+ counts with the CC genotype. Therefore, this study provides evidence that the rs2069705 (IFNG) SNP is associated with elevated IFN-γ levels, which may have pathogenic consequences, as depletion of this cytokine is concerning for people living with HIV due to its antiviral properties.
Qualitative Insights on Barriers to Receiving a Second Dose of Measles-Containing Vaccine (MCV2), Oromia Region of Ethiopia
Authors: Solomon Kalkidan , Aksnes Brooke , Woyessa Abyot , Sadi Chala , Matanock Almea , Shah Monica , Samuel Paulos , Tolera Bekana , Kenate Birhanu , Bekele Abebe , Deti Tesfaye , Wako Getachew , Shiferaw Amsalu , Tefera Yohannes , Kokebie Melkamu , Anbessie Tatek , Wubie Habtamu , Wallace Aaron , Sugerman Ciara , Kaba Mirgissa
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Ethiopia introduced a second dose of measles-containing vaccine (MCV2) in 2019 to provide further protection against measles and further progress toward elimination. However, the sub-optimal coverage of both MCV1 and MCV2 suggest challenges with vaccine uptake. In this qualitative study, we explored barriers to the uptake of MCV2 among caregivers, community leaders, and healthcare workers (HCWs). Method: A qualitative study was conducted between mid-April and mid-May 2021. We selected ten woredas (districts) in the Oromia Region, Ethiopia, stratified by settlement type (urban/rural), MCV1 coverage (high ≥ 80%; low < 80%), and history of measles outbreaks between June 2019 and June 2020. Experiences surrounding barriers to MCV2 uptake were discussed via focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews (IDIs) with caregivers of children 12–23 and 24–36 months and key informant interviews (KIIs) with HCWs who administer vaccines and with community leaders. Participants were recruited via snowball sampling. Recorded data were transcribed, translated to English, and analyzed using ATLAS.ti v.09. Results: Forty FGDs and 60 IDIs with caregivers, 60 IDIs with HCWs, and 30 KIIs with community leaders were conducted. Barriers among caregivers included lack of knowledge and awareness about MCV2 and the vaccination schedule, competing priorities, long wait times at health facilities, vaccine unavailability, negative interactions with HCWs, and transportation challenges. At the community level, trusted leaders felt they lacked adequate knowledge about MCV2 to address caretakers’ questions and community misconceptions. HCWs felt additional training on MCV2 would prepare them to better respond to caretakers’ concerns. Health system barriers identified included the lack of human, material, and financial resources to deliver vaccines and provide immunization outreach services, which caretakers reported as their preferred way of accessing immunization. Conclusions: Barriers to MCV2 uptake occur at multiple levels of immunization service delivery. Strategies to address these barriers include tools to help caretakers track appointments, enhanced community engagement, HCW training to improve provider–client interactions and MCV2 knowledge, and efforts to manage HCW workload.
A Computationally Optimized Broadly Reactive Hemagglutinin and Neuraminidase Vaccine Boosts Antibody-Secreting Cells and Induces a Robust Serological Response, Preventing Lung Damage in a Pre-Immune Model
Authors: Ge Pan , Mota Yailin Campos , Richardson Robert A. , Ross Ted M.
Published: June 2024

The hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) surface proteins are the primary and secondary immune targets for most influenza vaccines. In this study, H2, H5, H7, N1, and N2 antigens designed by the computationally optimized broadly reactive antigen (COBRA) methodology were incorporated into an adjuvant-formulated vaccine to assess the protective efficacy and immune response against A/Hong Kong/125/2017 H7N9 virus challenge in pre-immune mice. The elicited antibodies bound to H2, H5, H7, N1, and N2 wild-type antigens; cH6/1 antigens; and cH7/3 antigens, with hemagglutinin inhibition (HAI) activity against broad panels of the H2Nx, H5Nx, and H7Nx influenza strains. Mice vaccinated with the pentavalent COBRA HA/NA vaccine showed little to no weight loss, no clinical signs of diseases, and were protected from mortality when challenged with the lethal H7N9 virus. Virus titers in the lungs of vaccinated mice were lower and cleared more rapidly than in mock-vaccinated mice. Some vaccinated mice showed no detectable lung injury or inflammation. Antibody-secreting cells were significantly increased in COBRA-vaccinated mice, with higher total Ig and H7-specific ASC. Thus, the combination of H2, H5, H7, N1, and N2 COBRA antigens presents a potential for the formulation of a universal influenza virus vaccine.
Tracking the Dynamics of Spartina alterniflora with WorldView-2/3 and Sentinel-1/2 Imagery in Zhangjiang Estuary, China
Authors: Dong Di , Huang Huamei , Gao Qing
Published: June 2024

The invasion of Spartina alterniflora (S. alterniflora) has posed serious threats to the sustainability, quality and biodiversity of coastal wetlands. To safeguard coastal ecosystems, China has enacted large-scale S. alterniflora removal projects, which set the goal of effectively controlling S. alterniflora throughout China by 2025. The accurate monitoring of S. alterniflora with remote sensing is urgent and requisite for the scientific eradication, control and management of this invasive plant. In this study, we combined multi-temporal WorldView-2/3 (WV-2/3) and Sentinel-1/2 imagery to monitor the S. alterniflora dynamics before and after the S. alterniflora removal projects in Zhangjiang Estuary. We put forward a new method for S. alterniflora detection with eight-band WV-2/3 imagery. The proposed method first used NDVI to discriminate S. alterniflora from water, mud flats and mangroves based on Ostu thresholding and then used the red-edge, NIR1 and NIR2 bands and support vector machine (SVM) classifier to distinguish S. alterniflora from algae. Due to the contamination of frequent cloud cover and tidal inundation, the long revisit time of high-resolution satellite sensors and the short-term S. alterniflora removal projects, we combined Sentinel-1 SAR time series and Sentinel-2 optical imagery to monitor the S. alterniflora removal project status in 2023. The overall accuracies of the S. alterniflora detection results here are above 90%. Compared with the traditional SVM method, the proposed method achieved significantly higher identification accuracy. The S. alterniflora area was 115.19 hm2 in 2015, 152.40 hm2 in 2017 and 15.29 hm2 in 2023, respectively. The generated S. alterniflora maps clearly show the clonal growth of S. alterniflora in Zhangjiang Estuary from 2015 to 2017, and the large-scale S. alterniflora eradication project has achieved remarkable results with a removal rate of about 90% in the study area. With the continuous implementation of the “Special Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Spartina alterniflora (2022–2025)” which aims to eliminate more than 90% of S. alterniflora in all provinces in China by 2025, the continual high-spatial resolution monitoring of S. alterniflora is crucial to control secondary invasion and restore coastal wetlands.
Overflow Simulation and Optimization of a Drainage System in an Urban Area in the Northern Anhui Plain
Authors: Wan Yun , Li Mingjun , Zhang Nan , Li Yuxuan , Huang Peiqing , Zhang Houkuan , Huang Hao , Wei Wei , Zhu Shuguang
Published: June 2024

Quantitative simulation of urban waterlogging using computer models is an effective technical means for urban storm water management, especially for predicting and preventing waterlogging. In this study, a city in the northern Anhui Plain, China, was selected as the study site. The Storm Water Management Model was applied to simulate the dynamic changes in the pipeline overload, node overflow, and discharge port runoff characteristics from three perspectives: surface runoff, pipe network transmission, and flow control of low-impact development. The operation of the rainwater pipe network under different return periods and the real-time operation of the rainwater pipe network were simulated to seek solutions to urban waterlogging problems caused by flat terrain and slow drainage. The results revealed that surface runoff is the primary source of rainfall in the study area, with a runoff coefficient of 0.599. The drainage pipe network was optimized by expanding the diameter of the pipe from ≤1.5 mm to ≥2 mm. The water reduction rate was more than 50%, and overload did not occur after optimization. Therefore, sinking green space technology and optimization methods for expanding a pipe diameter can reduce urban waterlogging.
Retention, Degradation, and Runoff of Plastic-Coated Fertilizer Capsules in Paddy Fields in Fukushima and Miyagi Prefectures, Japan: Consistency of Capsule Degradation Behavior and Variations in Carbon Weight and Stable Carbon Isotope Abundance
Authors: Harada Shigeki , Yajima Itsuki , Fukushima Keitaro , Nitta Youji
Published: June 2024

Paddy field runoff containing plastic capsules that are used to coat fertilizers has been receiving increased attention. However, the behavior of these capsules, especially their degradation behavior, has not been extensively investigated. We divided the capsules in runoff into two categories: “floating capsules after ploughing” and “floating capsules discharged via pipes at the exits of paddy fields”. The behaviors of the capsules in both types of runoff were monitored in 2022 and 2023 at four paddy fields in Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures in northern Japan. Sampling of capsules in paddy biomass and soil, and comparisons of capsule weight to biomass weight showed that a decrease in plastic capsule weight reflected a decrease in capsule runoff. However, the emergence of clear effects showed a delay of 2 to 3 years, as explained by carbon isotopic analyses. The decrease in the weight of the plastic capsules could be attributed to a combination of capsule degradation and the release of urea inside the capsules, which was also explained by carbon isotopic analyses. Three types of degraded capsules were found: shrunken, broken, and spherical. Statistically significant differences among the weights of each type found.
Spatio-Temporal Variation in Suspended Sediment during Typhoon Ampil under Wave–Current Interactions in the Yangtze River Estuary
Authors: Wang Jie , Kuang Cuiping , Fan Daidu , Xing Wei , Qin Rufu , Zou Qingping
Published: June 2024

Suspended sediment plays a major role in estuary morphological change and shoal erosion and deposition. The impact of storm waves on sediment transport and resuspension in the Yangtze River Estuary (YRE) was investigated using a 3D coupling hydrodynamic-wave model with a sediment transport model during Typhoon Ampil. This model has been validated in field observations of water level, current, wave, and sediment concentration. The model was run for tide only, tide + wind, tide + wind and wave forcing conditions. It was found that: (1) typhoons can increase the suspended sediment concentration (SSC) by enhancing bed shear stress (BSS), especially in the offshore area of the YRE, and there is hysteresis between SSC and BSS variation; (2) exponential and vertical-line types are the main vertical profile of the SSC in the YRE and typhoons can strengthen vertical mixing and reconstruct the vertical distribution; and (3) waves are the dominating forcing factor for the SSC in the majority of the YRE through wave-induced BSS which releases sediment from the seabed. This study comprehensively investigates the spatio-temporal variation in SSC induced by Typhoon Ampil in the main branch of the YRE, which provides insights into sediment transport and resuspension during severe storms for estuaries around the world.
Conceptual Design of an Unmanned Electrical Amphibious Vehicle for Ocean and Land Surveillance
Authors: Policarpo Hugo , Lourenço João P. B. , Anastácio António M. , Parente Rui , Rego Francisco , Silvestre Daniel , Afonso Frederico , Maia Nuno M. M.
Published: June 2024

Unmanned vehicles (UVs) have become increasingly important in various scenarios of civil and military operations. The present work aims at the conceptual design of a modular Amphibious Unmanned Ground Vehicle (A-UGV) that can be easily adapted for different types of land and/or water missions with low monetary cost (EUR < 5 k, without sensors). Basing the design on the needs highlighted in the 2021 review of the Strategic Directive of the Portuguese Navy, the necessary specifications and requirements are established for two mission scenarios. Then, a market research analysis focused on vehicles currently available and their technological advances is conducted to identify existing UV solutions and respective characteristics/capabilities of interest to the current work. To study and define the geometry of the hull and the configuration of the A-UGV itself, preliminary computational structural and fluid analyses are carried out to ensure it complies with the specifications initially established. As a result, one obtains a fully electric vehicle with approximate dimensions of 1050 × 670 × 450 mm (length–width–height), enabled with 6 × 6 traction capable of reaching 20 km/h on land, which possesses amphibious capabilities of independent propulsion in water up to 8 kts and an estimated autonomy of over 60 min.
In Their Own Words: LGBTQIA+ Stigma in Secondary School
Authors: Stevenson Erin , Sandman Gregory
Published: June 2024

LGBTQIA+ youth often face stigma from society as they develop their personal identities. In the United States, legislation has recently been focusing on reducing protections in schools for queer youth and limiting access to resources like gender affirming healthcare. Youth have increasingly been targeted for identifying as queer and have experienced verbal and physical violence for expressing their gender identities. Research links stigmatization with increased mental health and substance use problems. However, there is limited information on how stigma experienced during adolescence may continue to impact young adults over time. Using a qualitative retrospective framework, LGBTQIA+-identified undergraduates (N = 8) at a 4-year university participated in one-hour virtual focus groups. Data were recorded and anonymized using individual participant codes with names of people or places removed from transcripts. Students were asked to reflect on their experiences as queer youth in secondary school including access to resources; interactions with teachers, staff, and peers; recommendations for supporting LGBTQIA+ students; and personal coping skills. The researchers used a thematic analysis to examine key issues students raised. Results provide insight into the challenges LGBTQIA+ youth face and highlight the strengths of these college-age young adults.
Quality of life assessment in children with dental arch constriction and impaired nasal breathing
Authors: Arutyunyan L. I. , Danilova M. A. , Prokoshev P. A.
Published: June 2024

Relevance. Malocclusion often cause morphofunctional and aesthetic disturbances in the dentoalveolar system, and the lack of nasal breathing in children exacerbates existing deviations.

Purpose. To assess morphofunctional parameters and quality of life indicators in children with impaired nasal breathing.

Materials and methods. Photometric facial analysis, cephalometric and anthropometric calculations, anterior active rhinomanometry, and an oral health-related quality of life questionnaire for children (OHRQoL) were conducted.

Results. In patients with impaired nasal breathing, social and family well-being parameters were reduced in the quality of life assessment.

Conclusion. An orthodontist can determine the causes and degree of nasal breathing impairment by analyzing teleradiographs, orthopantomograms, and studying the quality of life in children. This aids in interdisciplinary planning for early diagnosis and treatment of children with maxillary constriction.
Knowledge Management and Linked Data Generation in the CIS Statistics Committee
Authors: Akatkin Yu. M. , Yasinovskaya E. D. , Shilin A. V. , Bich M. G.
Published: June 2024

This article presents the actions implemented by the Interstate Statistical Committee of the CIS (CIS-STAT) in knowledge management information systems, preparation of linked data and «smart» (semantically rich) metadata as part of the CIS data hub that is under construction. Based on the analysis of international experience and after conducting their own long-term research, the authors set out the purpose behind the work – to increase the efficiency and potential of using statistical data by ensuring an unambiguous and meaningful data interpretation, including in consumer information systems. To reach this goal, the authors proposed new approaches and technologies for building a knowledge management system based on the semantic network, which made it possible to link machine-interpretable semantic models with human-readable knowledge representations. Addressing the objective of organizing knowledge about statistical methodology is a key to increasing the potential for using linked data and enabling collaborative processing of statistical data. The proposed methodological and technological approach is aimed at contextualizing a subject area used to develop linked data and generate «smart» metadata. It also provides new opportunities for consumers to work with statistical data and metadata – their interpretation, meaningful analysis, comparison and joint processing. Along with a description of the systems operating cycle, the article provides a meaningful analysis of the issues of harmonizing statistical terminology, identified by practical work with the «Labor Statistics» domain. Special attention is paid to the role of the expert community in developing a knowledge management system