bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Reduced Feedback Frequencies on Motor Learning in a Postural Control Task in Young Adults
Authors: Marco-Ahulló Adrià , Villarrasa-Sapiña Israel , Romero-Martínez Jorge , Monfort-Torres Gonzalo , Toca-Herrera Jose Luis , García-Massó Xavier
Published: February 2024

The effects of the use of reduced feedback frequencies on motor learning remain controversial in the scientific literature. At present, there is still controversy about the guidance hypothesis, with some works supporting it and others contradicting it. To shed light on this topic, an experiment was conducted with four groups, each with different feedback frequencies (0%, 33%, 67%, and 100%), which were evaluated three times (pre-test, post-test, and retention) during a postural control task. In addition, we tested whether there was a transfer in performance to another similar task involving postural control. As a result, only the 67% feedback group showed an improvement in their task performance in the post-test and retention evaluations. Nevertheless, neither group showed differences in motor transfer performance compared to another postural control task. In conclusion, the findings of this paper corroborate the hypothesis of guidance and suggest that the use of a reduced frequency of 67% is a better option for improving motor learning than options that offer feedback at a lower frequency, at all trials or not at all.
Comparative Analysis of the Diagonal Stride Technique during Roller Skiing and On-Snow Skiing in Youth Cross-Country Skiers
Authors: Ma Mujia , Zhao Shuang , Long Ting , Song Qingquan , Holmberg Hans-Christer , Liu Hui
Published: February 2024

Roller skiing is one primary form of training method as it is an off-snow equivalent to cross-country (XC) skiing during the dry land preseason training, but the results could only be applied to on-snow skiing with appropriate caution. The aim of this present study was to investigate the similarities and differences in roller skiing and on-snow skiing with the diagonal stride (DS) technique. Six youth (age: 14.3 ± 2.9 years) skiers participated in this study. Two high-definition video camcorders and FastMove 3D Motion 2.23.3.3101 were used to obtain the three-dimensional kinematic data. The cycle characteristics and joint angle ROM of the DS technique while skiing on different surfaces were similar. Almost all joint angle–time curves that were obtained from roller skiing showed a moderate-to-high degree of similarity to the angle–time curves obtained from on-snow skiing, except the hip adduction–abduction angle. The differences between roller skiing and on-snow skiing were mainly found in the body and calf anteversion angles, and the joint angles at critical instants. DS roller skiing can simulate DS on-snow skiing to a large extent in youth athletes. The hip movement, knee flexion, and calf anteversion at ski/roller ski touchdown and take-off, pole inclination at pole touchdown, body anteversion angle, and trunk anteversion angle at pole touchdown were the points that required caution when transferring preseason practice roller skiing to on-snow skiing.
Variable Time-Step Physics Engine with Continuous Compliance Contact Model for Optimal Robotic Grinding Trajectory Planning
Authors: Zhou Yongcan , Pan Yang , Chen Junpeng , Lei Tianjian
Published: February 2024

In the transition from virtual environments to real-world applications, the role of physics engines is crucial for accurately emulating and representing systems. To address the prevalent issue of inaccurate simulations, this paper introduces a novel physics engine uniquely designed with a compliant contact model designed for robotic grinding. It features continuous and variable time-step simulations, emphasizing accurate contact force calculations during object collision. Firstly, the engine derives dynamic equations considering spring stiffness, damping coefficients, coefficients of restitution, and external forces. This facilitates the effective determination of dynamic parameters such as contact force, acceleration, velocity, and position throughout penetration processes continuously. Secondly, the approach utilizes effective inertia in developing the contact model, which is designed for multi-jointed robots through pose transformation. The proposed physics engine effectively captures energy conversion in scenarios with convex contact surface shapes through the application of spring dampers during collisions. Finally, the reliability of the contact solver in the simulation was verified through bouncing ball experiments and robotic grinding experiments under different coefficients of restitution. These experiments effectively recorded the continuous variations in parameters, such as contact force, verifying the integral stability of the system. In summary, this article advances physics engine technology beyond current geometrically constrained contact solutions, enhancing the accuracy of simulations and modeling in virtual environments. This is particularly significant in scenarios wherein there are constant changes in the outside world, such as robotic grinding tasks.
A Sensor Placement Approach Using Multi-Objective Hypergraph Particle Swarm Optimization to Improve Effectiveness of Structural Health Monitoring Systems
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Jan Latif , Zafar Mohammad Haseeb , Hassan Syed Raheel , Asif Rameez
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a novel Multi-Objective Hypergraph Particle Swarm Optimization (MOHGPSO) algorithm for structural health monitoring (SHM) systems is considered. This algorithm autonomously identifies the most relevant sensor placements in a combined fitness function without artificial intervention. The approach utilizes six established Optimal Sensor Placement (OSP) methods to generate a Pareto front, which is systematically analyzed and archived through Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) and Fuzzy Decision Making (FDM). This comprehensive analysis demonstrates the proposed approach’s superior performance in determining sensor placements, showcasing its adaptability to structural changes, enhancement of durability, and effective management of the life cycle of structures. Overall, this paper makes a significant contribution to engineering by leveraging advancements in sensor and information technologies to ensure essential infrastructure safety through SHM systems.
Fuzzy Logic Method for Measuring Sustainable Decent Work Levels as a Corporate Social Responsibility Approach
Authors: Abundes-Recilla Alma Nataly , Seuret-Jiménez Diego , Contreras-Valenzuela Martha Roselia , Nieto-Jalil José M.
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to propose an interactive computer system that utilises the MATLAB Fuzzy Logic Designer to measure the level of implementation of SDG 8, which focuses on sustainable decent work (SDW) and economic growth. This study used policies and laws as parameters to determine the presence or absence of SDW. The fuzzy method was implemented in car windshield manufacturing in the auto parts industry as a case study to define and quantify work conditions and to determine the level of sustainable decent work (SDWL). The study described environmental conditions, such as noise, lighting, and heat stress; ergonomic factors, such as exposure time, the mass of the object manipulated, and lifting frequency; and organisation at work, such as workplace violence, salary, and workday, as linguistic variables. The level of the presence or absence of SDW was defined as their membership functions. The resulting vectors determined the absence of SDW with a score of 1.5 in two linguistic variables: environmental conditions and ergonomic factors. Some features of SDW in the linguistic variable organisation at work had an SDW score of 5. The SDWL vector determined a final score of 1.24, indicating the absence of decent work in production areas. This study found that the workers suffer a lack of long and healthy lives and a bad standard of living without economic growth due to work-related musculoskeletal disorders and work illnesses, increasing their out-of-pocket spending and catastrophic health expenses. As a CSR approach, assessing SDWLs helped managers improve policies and work conditions.
Willingness to Participate in Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) in Sweden, 2022—Using an Electric Vehicle’s Battery for More Than Transport
Authors: Khezri Rahmat , Steen David , Anh Tuan Le
Published: February 2024

Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) refers to the technology that enables electric vehicles (EVs) to push their battery energy back to the grid. The system’s V2X integration includes key functions like V2G, V2H, V2B, etc. This paper explores the preferences of Swedish EV drivers in contributing to V2X programs through an online questionnaire. Respondents were asked to answer questions in three contexts: (1) claims related to their EV charging, (2) V2G application by EV, and (3) V2H application by EV. The respondents were questioned about the importance of control, pricing, energy sustainability and climate issues, impact on the battery, the acceptability of V2X, range anxiety, financial compensation, as well as how and where they prefer to charge the EV. The results of the survey indicate that Swedish EV drivers are more interested in the V2H application than in V2G. Additionally, they express more concern about range anxiety than battery degradation due to the V2X application.
A Study on the Long-Term Exposure of a Tailings Dump, a Product of Processing Sn-Fe-Cu Skarn Ores: Mineralogical Transformations and Impact on Natural Water
Authors: Konyshev Artem A. , Sidkina Evgeniya S. , Bugaev Ilya A.
Published: February 2024

In the mining industry, one of the principal issues is the management of the waste generated during ore concentration, which represents a potential source of environmental pollution. The most acute issue originates from the mining heritage in the form of dumps formed of mining tailings that were created before the introduction of waste storage standards and may be located in urban areas. This research investigated this problem using the example of the tailings dump “Krasnaya Glinka”, located in a residential area of Pitkäranta (Karelia, Russia) in close proximity to the shoreline of Lake Ladoga. A complex approach, including the investigation of the natural water of the study area and tailings material and an experiment simulating the interaction of this material with atmospheric precipitation, allowed us to obtain the first data on the current status of the tailings dump and its surroundings and to identify environmental pollutants. This research used XRF, XRD, and EPMA analytical methods for assaying the tailings materials obtained from the dump and ion chromatography, potentiometric titration, ICP-MS, and AES for the water samples. The results show the influence of the tailings dump’s materials on the formation of the environmental impact—in the water from the area of the tailings dump, increased concentrations of chalcophilic elements are observed, for example, Zn up to 5028 µg/L. Based on this study of the tailings dump’s materials and the conducted experiment, an attempt is made to connect the chemical compositions shown in the natural water data with the specific mineral phases and processes occurring during supergene transformations in the tailings storage. As a result of the conducted research, it was found that despite more than 100 years of exposure of the tailings materials under natural factors, mostly atmospheric precipitation, equilibrium with the environment has not come. The processes of extracting toxic elements and carcinogenic mineral phases into the environment are continuing. In the process of studying the tailings materials, it was found that they are probably of economic interest as a technogenic source of W and Sn due to the contents of these components exceeding industrially significant values in the exploited fields.
Environmental and Psychosocial Barriers to Active Commuting to University in a Spanish University Community
Authors: Martín-López Isabel María , García-Taibo Olalla , Aguiló Pons Antoni , Borràs Rotger Pere Antoni
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Climate change and a sedentary lifestyle have been associated with negative effects on global health and sustainable development. Active commuting (AC) represents an important solution for mitigating global warming and improving health. Thus, policies that encourage this behavior could have an impact on health and sustainability. Therefore, the aims of this study were (a) to describe the mode of commuting in university staff and students; (b) to analyze the influences of this behavior; and (c) to compare perceived barriers by mode of commuting. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study with a descriptive design was conducted. In total, 384 university community members (79.4% students and 20.6% staff) were recruited via non-probability sampling and completed an online questionnaire. Mode of commuting, sociodemographic data, and perceived barriers were analyzed. (3) Results: Most of the sample commuted passively to university. This behavior was significantly higher in those who those lived in rural residences and a distance more than 15 km from the university, owned one vehicle, perceived higher psychosocial and environmental barriers, and were women. (4) Conclusions: Universities play a key role in health promotion and sustainable development. Therefore, they should design specific measures according to their characteristics, and barriers.
Spatial Distribution, Ecological Risk Assessment, and Source Identification of Metals in Sediments of the Krka River Estuary (Croatia)
Authors: Cukrov Nuša , Cindrić Ana-Marija , Omanović Dario , Cukrov Neven
Published: February 2024

To evaluate the level of contamination and predict the potential toxicity risk, selected metal concentrations (Cd, Pb, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, and As) were determined in 40 surface sediment samples from the stratified karstic Krka River estuary (Croatia). In addition, diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) probes were deployed in situ to understand the mobilization mechanisms and bioavailability of metals in the sediment. The results show significant spatial differences between the upper and lower estuary, with the latter being more affected by anthropogenic pollution. The pollution assessment using the enrichment factor (EF), the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), and the pollution load index (PLI) showed a strong enrichment of metals in the lower part of the estuary, especially of Mn, Cu, Zn, Pb, and As. The statistical analysis (PCA) revealed the former ferromanganese factory and the port as major sources of pollution in the area. Nickel, Co, and Cr, although slightly elevated, may be attributed to the natural origin. The metal mobility in the estuarine sediment was primarily governed by early diagenetic processes (aerobic organic matter mineralization, Fe and Mn oxyhydroxide reduction), which caused the release of metals from the sediment into the pore water and subsequently into the overlying water column.
Drivers of Tree Canopy Loss in a Mid-Sized Growing City: Case Study in Portland, OR (USA)
Authors: Ock YunJae , Shandas Vivek , Ribeiro Fernanda , Young Noah
Published: February 2024

The benefits of the urban tree and tree canopy (UTC) are increasingly crucial in addressing urban sustainability. Yet, increasingly evident from earlier research is the distributional inequities of UTC and active efforts to expand tree plantings. Less is known about the dynamics of UTC loss over time and location. This study aims to understand the dynamics of UTC change, especially canopy loss, and to investigate the drivers of the loss. This study draws on a high–resolution dataset of an urban canopy in Portland, Oregon, USA, assessing changes in UTC from 2014 to 2020. By integrating demographic, biophysical, and policy data with UTC information, we use a spatial autoregressive model to identify the drivers of UTC loss. The results reveal an unexpected spatial distribution of UTC change: less gain in the neighborhoods with the least UTC, and greater loss in the neighborhoods with moderate UTC. This study identifies four primary drivers of UTC loss: socioeconomic characteristics, urban form, activities on trees, and residential status. Factors such as population density, race, and income have an impact on canopy loss, as well as the building footprint and the number of multifamily housing units; residential statuses, such as the proportion of owner-occupied housing and residential stability, impact canopy loss.
Tomato and Pepper Seeds as Pathways for the Dissemination of Phytopathogenic Bacteria: A Constant Challenge for the Seed Industry and the Sustainability of Crop Production
Authors: Xhemali Bekri , Giovanardi Davide , Biondi Enrico , Stefani Emilio
Published: February 2024

The seed industry plays a crucial role in global food production but it faces a persistent challenge in ensuring the health and quality of seeds, particularly those of tomato and pepper seeds, which represent key seed commodities on the global market. Seeds can serve as potential pathways for the introduction and dissemination of seed-borne bacteria, which may have devastating effects on crop yield, farmers’ remunerability, and food security. Therefore, fungicides and other antimicrobial compounds are extensively used to disinfect the seeds, thus increasing the input of chemicals in the agri-environment. In this review, we address aspects that connect disease epidemiology with seed infection and health, including seed contamination, endophytic colonization, and seed-borne infections. We focused on the main bacterial diseases affecting tomato and pepper seeds by discussing their official seed testing methods as requirements supporting a smooth seed trade. Moreover, we present a survey on the past and recent innovations for seed treatments, focusing on sustainable disinfection methods. Therefore, this review will be a short but indispensable guide for seed technologists and pathologists involved in the production of high-quality seeds, providing indications and suggestions to contrast seed-borne pathogen dissemination and avoid international controversies and complaints by phytosanitary authorities, extension services, and farmers.
Validation and Adaptation of Questionnaires on Interest, Effort, Progression and Learning Support in Chilean Adolescents
Authors: Carrasco-Venturelli Hanrriette , Cachón-Zagalaz Javier , Lara-Sánchez Amador J. , Ubago-Jiménez José Luis
Published: February 2024

In order to understand interest, effort and progress in learning as dispositional and contextual variables in the field of education, the activities and strategies that encourage student motivation have been continuously sought, given that they have a fundamental role in sustainability to promote the improvement of their citizenship skills and the achievement of SDGs 3 (health and well-being) and 4 (quality education) set by the UN. The objective of this study is to validate and adapt the Interest, Effort and Progress in Learning (IEPA) and contextual Student Assistance (AYES) questionnaires in the Chilean adolescent population and thus support the sustainable development SDGs. For this purpose, they were applied to a sample in two phases, first with 339 schoolchildren, and secondly, replicated with 3172 students. For their analysis, a data matrix was constructed with distribution and dispersion tests (mean, standard deviation, skewness, kurtosis and range) using the IBM SPSS.27 statistical program. Subsequently, the dimensionality of the scale was studied by applying an exploratory factor analysis with the FACTOR program, version 11, updated in 2021. Finally, a confirmatory factor analysis was performed with the M-PLUS.7.3 program. It is concluded that the instruments provide a method that is valid, reliable, simple to apply and adapted to adolescents, allowing the evaluation of three dispositional variables in students: interest, effort and progression in learning. These data indicate that they have adequate psychometric properties, which allows for a valid and reliable evaluation to contribute to the sustainability of permanent improvement in education.
Research on Evaluation Method of Wind Farm Wake Energy Efficiency Loss Based on SCADA Data Analysis
Authors: Ma Kuichao , Zhang Huanqiang , Gao Xiaoxia , Wang Xiaodong , Nian Heng , Fan Wei
Published: February 2024

The large size of wind turbines and wind farm clustering aggravate the effect of wake on output power, resulting in a reduction in the economic benefits of wind farms. This paper took the actual operating turbines of an onshore wind farm in China as the research object and analyzed the influence of wake on energy efficiency loss by combining SCADA data. The research established a complete loss assessment method and proposed the corresponding evaluation criteria. The results showed that typical wind turbines seriously affected by wake accounted for 32.8% of the wind farm. The actual output power was only 84.2% of the theoretical output power at the lowest month, and the wake loss of the wind farm is serious. The economic efficiency of the wind farm is lower in the summer months (June–August). The study can provide a theoretical basis for the arrangement of wind farms and the development of an operation control strategy.
Research of the Impact of Hydrogen Metallurgy Technology on the Reduction of the Chinese Steel Industry’s Carbon Dioxide Emissions
Authors: Wan Fang , Li Jizu , Han Yunfei , Yao Xilong
Published: February 2024

The steel industry, which relies heavily on primary energy, is one of the industries with the highest CO2 emissions in China. It is urgent for the industry to identify ways to embark on the path to “green steel”. Hydrogen metallurgy technology uses hydrogen as a reducing agent, and its use is an important way to reduce CO2 emissions from long-term steelmaking and ensure the green and sustainable development of the steel industry. Previous research has demonstrated the feasibility and emission reduction effects of hydrogen metallurgy technology; however, further research is needed to dynamically analyze the overall impact of the large-scale development of hydrogen metallurgy technology on future CO2 emissions from the steel industry. This article selects the integrated MARKAL-EFOM system (TIMES) model as its analysis model, constructs a China steel industry hydrogen metallurgy model (TIMES-CSHM), and analyzes the resulting impact of hydrogen metallurgy technology on CO2 emissions. The results indicate that in the business-as-usual scenario (BAU scenario), applying hydrogen metallurgy technology in the period from 2020 to 2050 is expected to reduce emissions by 203 million tons, and make an average 39.85% contribution to reducing the steel industry’s CO2 emissions. In the carbon emission reduction scenario, applying hydrogen metallurgy technology in the period from 2020 to 2050 is expected to reduce emissions by 353 million tons, contributing an average of 41.32% to steel industry CO2 reduction. This study provides an assessment of how hydrogen metallurgy can reduce CO2 emissions in the steel industry, and also provides a reference for the development of hydrogen metallurgy technology.
Identifying the Role of Knowledge-Intensive Business Services in the Korean Economy as a Sustainable Innovation Tool Using Input–Output Analysis
Authors: Shin Yong Jae
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to determine the role of KIBSs as a tool for sustainable innovation in a country’s economic system. Specifically, the degree and role of their impact on the Korean economy were analyzed and compared for the entire KIBS sector, T-KIBSs (a new technology-based professional service), P-KIBSs (a traditional professional service), and every subsector. For this purpose, the demand inducement model, supply inducement model, and interlinkage effects method were applied using the 2019 input–output table published in 2022. The analysis showed that the indirect production inducement effect of the entire KIBS industry on other industries was KRW 0.800, the indirect added value inducement effect was KRW 0.330, and the supply disruption effect was KRW 1.144. For T-KIBS, the indirect production inducement effect was KRW 0.687, the indirect added value inducement effect was KRW 0.272, and the supply disruption effect was KRW 0.730. For P-KIBSs, the indirect production inducement effect was KRW 1.472, the indirect added value inducement effect was KRW 0.646, and the supply disruption effect was KRW 2.657. Finally, regarding the economic ripple effect of the KIBS subsector, legal and management support services and advertisements corresponding to P-KIBSs showed higher figures than the T-KIBS subsectors in all sectors, including production inducement, the added value inducement effect, and the supply disruption effect. These results revealed that in the South Korean economic system, KIBSs contribute to production and value addition across all industrial sectors. It is apparent that the absence of supply significantly disrupts other industries. Furthermore, production inducement effects are evenly distributed among all the KIBS subsectors in the secondary and tertiary sectors, while the value-added effects have a greater impact on the tertiary sector. In terms of the supply shortage effects, the secondary sector experiences a more significant impact. This underscores the crucial role of KIBSs in sustaining and enhancing overall economic activity in South Korea.
Integrated System Design for Post-Disaster Management: Multi-Facility, Multi-Period, and Bi-Objective Optimization Approach
Authors: Song Byung Duk , Jun Sungbum , Lee Seokcheon
Published: February 2024

Disaster management requires efficient allocation of essential facilities with consideration of various objectives. During the response and recovery phase of disaster management (RRDM), various types of missions occur in multiple periods, and each of them needs different support from facilities. In this study, a bi-objective mathematical model was derived to support multi-period RRDM by optimal allocation of required facilities such as drone stations, shelters, emergency medical facilities, and warehouses according to the mission life cycle. Connectivity between facilities was considered to ensure inter-facility complementarity. For efficient derivation of Pareto solutions, a modified epsilon-constraint algorithm for bi-objective optimization was developed. The algorithm was tested with a realistic disaster simulation scenario using HAZUS 4.0 as a demonstration of the benefits of the proposed approach. With the simulation experiments, the proposed approach was expected to provide efficient operational plans and guidelines to decision makers for the bi-objective optimization problem in RRDM systems. In addition, the consideration of inter-facility connectivity can play an important role in the RRDM, especially for robustness and readiness.
Evolution of a Distinct SARS-CoV-2 Lineage Identified during an Investigation of a Hospital Outbreak
Authors: Choi Hosoon , Hwang Munok , Cornelius Lisa , Navarathna Dhammika H. , Chatterjee Piyali , Jinadatha Chetan
Published: February 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 virus steadily evolves, and numerous antigenically distinct variants have emerged over the past three years. Tracking the evolution of the virus would help us understand the process that generates the diverse variants and predict the future evolutionary trajectory of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we report the evolutionary trajectory of a unique Omicron lineage identified during an outbreak investigation that occurred in a residence unit in the healthcare system. The new lineage had four distinct non-synonymous and two distinct synonymous mutations apart from its parental lineage. Since this lineage of virus was exclusively found during the outbreak, we were able to track the detailed evolutionary history of the entire lineage along the transmission path. Furthermore, we estimated the evolutionary rate of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant from the analysis of the evolution of the lineage. This new Omicron sub-lineage acquired 3 mutations in a 12-day period, and the evolutionary rate was estimated as 3.05 × 10−3 subs/site/year. This study provides more insight into an ever-evolving virus.
Spatial Assessment of Groundwater Salinity and Its Impact on Vegetation Cover Conditions in the Agricultural Lands of Al-Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hassaballa Abdalhaleem
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the complex relationship among groundwater salinity, soil texture, and vegetation health in Al-Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia. Utilizing vegetation condition index data from 5 years of satellite imagery, alongside ground measurements of groundwater salinity and soil analysis, the study unveiled significant spatial heterogeneity. The vegetation health and groundwater salinity in the study area ranged from 27 to 70% and from 1.7 to 9.6 dS m−1, respectively, and exhibited contrasting patterns, with a high vegetation condition index (healthy vegetation) in the north and east versus high salinity in the southwest. The applied cross-tabulation statistics revealed a strong negative correlation between the vegetation condition index and salinity, with “good” and “normal” vegetation health primarily coinciding with “slightly saline” groundwater. Soil texture further modulated the vegetation response, as “Silt loam” soils corresponded with “good” VCI, while “silty clay loam” only supported “dry” and “normal” conditions. The applied spatial autocorrelation analysis confirmed this, showing low vegetation clustering with “silt” texture and high salinity in the mid-west of the study area (p < 0.05). Outlier districts hint at local factors beyond simple salinity–vegetation health relationships. Finally, a conditional plot, applied as a spatial statistical approach, revealed that low vegetation health spatially correlates with high groundwater salinity (>5 dS m−1) on “silt loam” in the mid-west, while a higher vegetation condition index aligned with lower groundwater salinity in the east and north. These findings highlight the critical role of spatial variability and the need for advanced modeling and data integration to understand and predict the responses of vegetation to environmental challenges, and will be crucial for optimizing water management to ensure the long-term sustainability of Al-Ahsa Oasis.
A Framework for Quantifying Reach-Scale Hydraulic Roughness in Mountain Headwater Streams
Authors: Kim Tae-Hyun , Lee Jeman , Kim Taehyun , Choi Hyung Tae , Im Sangjun
Published: February 2024

The presence of macroroughness elements directly affects the flow velocity in mountain headwater streams. Hydraulic roughness is the dominant resistance to flow caused by objects protruding into the water, but it is not measurable in the field. This study quantified the reach-average hydraulic roughness based on the channel morphology in two mountain streams. The average flow velocities of the reaches were measured using the dye-tracing method. The magnitude of the hydraulic roughness was derived from the grain size of the streambed materials (D50 and D84) and the cross-sectional/longitudinal bed roughness. The observations for low flows (0.04–0.43 m2/s discharge per unit width) indicated that the longitudinal 90% inter-percentile range (IPR90L) seemed to have considerable merit in examining the influences of large roughness elements on flow conveyance. A dimensionless hydraulic geometry relation that can reflect the field measurements over a limited range of hydraulic characteristics was also developed for estimating the reach-average flow velocity in steep and rough streams. Thus, the research framework used appears to provide a reliable method of quantifying reach-average hydraulic roughness from local data in mountain headwater streams.
Characteristics of Natural Ti-Bearing Nanoparticles in Groundwater within Karst Areas of Northern China
Authors: Zuo Lei , Li Changsuo , Zhang Peng , Wang Yaqin , Gao Shuai , Sun Bin , Liu Rui
Published: February 2024

Karst areas are widespread in China and can be divided into southern karst and northern karst based on the geographical boundary of Qinling Mountains and Huaihe River. In northern karst regions, karst springs are the predominant landform. Previous studies on karst springs have predominantly focused on macroscopic perspectives, such as water chemistry characteristics, with less attention given to the microscopic characteristics of springs. Therefore, this study focused on the Jinan Baotu Spring area, representative of a typical northern karst region, and investigated the natural nanoparticles present in different aquifers at various depths from a microscopic point of view. Through the observation of nanoparticle tracking analyzer (NTA), numerous nanoparticles were identified in the groundwater samples. The particle size range of the particles contained in groundwater is mainly concentrated in the range of 150–500 nm, and the particle concentration is mainly concentrated in the range of 1.5–5.0 × 105 Particles/L. The microstructure, chemical composition, and element distribution of these nanoparticles were analyzed using TEM-EDS techniques. The results unveiled the presence of Ti-bearing nanoparticles in various groundwater layers, including both crystalline and amorphous states, as well as nanoparticles exhibiting the coexistence of crystal and amorphous structures. By comparing the measured lattice spacing with PDF cards, the crystalline Ti-bearing nanoparticles were identified as rutile, brookite, anatase, ilmenite, pseudorutile, and ulvospinel. Furthermore, the main components of the amorphous Ti-bearing nanoparticles predominantly consisted of Ti or a mixture of Ti and Fe. EDS analysis further indicated that the Ti-bearing nanoparticles carried additional metal elements, such as Zn, Ca, Mn, Mo, Cr, and Ni, suggesting their potential role as carriers of metal elements during groundwater transportation. This discovery provided new insights into the migration of metal elements in groundwater and underscores the capacity of nanoparticles to enhance the mobility of inorganic substances within the water environment. Notably, brookite was detected in three different areas, including the direct discharge area, indirect recharge area, and discharge area, which may indicate that some special natural nanoparticles could serve as natural mineral tracer particles in the process of groundwater migration.
RHIZOBACTERIA AS ANTAGONIST AGAINST Fusarium oxysporum CAUSING TOMATO WILT
Authors: Shah Noor Muhammad , Ali Syed Zulfiqar , Waris Muhammad , Ullah Atta , Jabeen Jabeen , Ahmed Basheer , Jiskani Sana Shazia
Published: February 2024

Tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) are the most extensively grown vegetable in the world. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is commonly planted for its tasty fruits. Pests, weeds, diseases, and parasites are just a few of the numerous variables that significantly affect tomato growth and yield. The most common disease affecting tomatoes is fusarium wilt. Fifteen rhizobacterial strains were identified by morphological and biochemical analyses in this work, and they were employed as an antagonist against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici. Fifteen isolates were investigated for their antagonistic properties against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici using an invitro dual culture approach. The growth of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici was suppressed by each isolate. Out of the 15 rhizobacteria isolates, isolate RBS-5 exhibited the highest level of growth inhibition and strongly suppressed the development of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici, resulting in a 57.28 percent reduction in pathogen growth as compared to the control. The development of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici was suppressed by isolates RBS-12, RBS-6, and RBS-15, in decreasing order of merit, compared to the control by 53.7, 51.91, and 51.73 percent. Isolate RBS-13 showed the least amount of pathogen growth inhibition 20.83 percent. The data was statistically analyzed.
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Authors: Vinyak Jagtap , Parag Kulkarni , Pallavi Joshi
Published: February 2024

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The role of employee productivity through digitalization in increasing the performance of culinary SMEs
Authors: Halik Johannes Baptista , Lintang Jane , Patandean Eben Haezer Basran
Published: February 2024

SMEs are one of the supporting aspects that have a big impact on the Indonesian economy. This research aims to see: 1) the influence of employee performance; 2) the influence of the use of digital marketing media, and 3) the influence of employee performance through the use of digital marketing media on increasing sales of culinary SMEs in the city of Makassar. The research results found that: 1) employee productivity has a positive and significant influence on improving SME performance. 2.) The use of digital marketing media does not have a direct influence on improving the performance of culinary SMEs in the city of Makassar, however 3) employee productivity through the use of digital marketing media will have a greater influence on improving the performance of these SMEs. Thus, it can be concluded that digital marketing media moderates the role of employee productivity in improving the performance of culinary SMEs in the city of Makassar.
Non-chemical management of weeds through bioherbicides: current status, market, development, constraints and future prospects
Authors: Aneja Kamal Roy
Published: February 2024

A weed, a kind of pest, is a plant growing where it is not desired, or a plant out of its place. Weeds are a major threat to biodiversity and agricultural productivity. The annual losses caused by weeds has been estimated to over US$26 billion in the USA, AU$ 3.3 billion in Australia and US$ 11 billion in India exclusively in 10 major crops. The rising awareness about the potential health risk with chemical residues among individuals and farmers, emphasis is on growing organic crops to keep us healthy and a long life. In addition, the constant use of herbicides in agriculture system also paves the way for the emergence of resistance of weed variety. Bioherbicides, an eco-friendly alternative to non-chemical management of weeds, are defined as the formulations based on indigenous living host-specific microorganisms and ancillary components applied in an inundative manner similar to chemical herbicides. The term microbial herbicide preferably be used for microbial-based formulations. These are derived from fungi, bacteria and viruses. The bioherbicides market is rapidly growing and expected to witness market growth at a rate of 15% and is expected to reach US$1.84 by 2029. In spite of all efforts, acceptance of bioherbicides by the users is low due to a wide range of constraints (e.g., environmental, technological, host-specificity, regulatory, funding and human-related). Environmental conditions playing a significant role on the microbial germination, penetration, infection and biocontrol efficacy of the target host. Twenty-six microbe-based herbicides have been developed globally. At present, 13 bioherbicides are available in the market namely DeVineTM, CollegoTM (LockdownR), BioMalR, BioChonTM, MycoTechTM, Chontrol™ (EcoClearTM), SmolderR, SarritorTM, SolvinixR, Gibbartrianth, BiophomaTM and Di-Bak ParkinsoniaR. For successful deployment of bioherbicides into agriculture, horticulture and forestry, in addition to boosting their market, scientists need to develop consumer-friendly bioherbicides with a long-shelf life, non-effected by environmental conditions, ability to control varied weeds in a crop, and with a biocontrol efficacy better than or at par with the synthetic herbicides. Objective of this review is to discuss biocontrol strategies for controlling weeds, phases of bioherbicide development, market, current global status, development of currently available bioherbicides, constraints/limitations in their production & demand and future prospects for their adoption in weed management system.
Microenvironment Remodeling Self-Healing Hydrogel for Promoting Flap Survival
Authors: Ju Yikun , Yang Pu , Liu Xiangjun , Qiao Zhihua , Shen Naisi , Lei Lanjie , Fang Bairong
Published: February 2024

Random flap grafting is a routine procedure used in plastic and reconstructive surgery to repair and reconstruct large tissue defects. Flap necrosis is primarily caused by ischemia–reperfusion injury and inadequate blood supply to the distal flap. Ischemia–reperfusion injury leads to the production of excessive reactive oxygen species, creating a pathological microenvironment that impairs cellular function and angiogenesis. In this study, we developed a microenvironment remodeling self-healing hydrogel [laminarin–chitosan-based hydrogel-loaded extracellular vesicles and ceria nanozymes (LCH@EVs&CNZs)] to improve the flap microenvironment and synergistically promote flap regeneration and survival. The natural self-healing hydrogel (LCH) was created by the oxidation laminarin and carboxymethylated chitosan via a Schiff base reaction. We loaded this hydrogel with CNZs and EVs. CNZs are a class of nanomaterials with enzymatic activity known for their strong scavenging capacity for reactive oxygen species, thus alleviating oxidative stress. EVs are cell-secreted vesicular structures containing thousands of bioactive substances that can promote cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and angiogenesis. The constructed LCH@EVs&CNZs demonstrated a robust capacity for scavenging excess reactive oxygen species, thereby conferring cellular protection in oxidative stress environments. Moreover, these constructs notably enhance cell migration and angiogenesis. Our results demonstrate that LCH@EVs&CNZs effectively remodel the pathological skin flap microenvironment and marked improve flap survival. This approach introduces a new therapeutic strategy combining microenvironmental remodeling with EV therapy, which holds promise for promoting flap survival.
The Restoration of zpγw in the Legends on the Western Turkic Coins: Also on Magha Shad’s Pedigree
Authors: CHEN Ken
Published: February 2024

The Sogdian word zpγw in the legends on the Western Turkic coins is not the variant spelling form of cpγw (Jabghu), and its reading should be revised to zwγw/ žwγw, the Chinese transcription of which may be Shegui 射匱, and the etymology of which is related to Sogdian žwγ-/žγw/jwγ-/jγw/δrγw, which means “hard, cruel, harsh, severe”. There are two kinds of žwγw coin, each casted by Shegui, grandson of Tardu, son of Dulu, and by Yipi Shegui, grandson of Dielishi. They had different tamgas deriving from different branches within the Tardu line. The tamga of the second kind of žwγw coin i.e. Yipi Shegui coin belonged to the Magha Shad line, and the other tamga that appeared along with it came from the Hephthalite, indicating that the line was closely related to Hephthalite-Tokharistan. From the perspective of the relationship between basic tamga and derived tamga, the possibility that Magha Shad came from the Dulu line can be ruled out, and Magha Shad might be the grandson of Tardu and son of Ton Shad instead. The joint appearance of the two tamgas on the Yipi Shegui coin suggest a marriage relationship between the Magha Shad line and the Hephthalite, which might be a continuation of the earlier tradition of marriage relationship between Tardu and Hephthalite.
Manz B. F. Timurlenk Bozkırların Son Göçebe Fatihi. Çev. Bilgin, Z. İstanbul: Kronik Kitap, 2021, ss. 348, ISBN: 978-975-2430-02-0.
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Şükrü
Published: February 2024

Manz B. F. Timurlenk Bozkırların Son Göçebe Fatihi. Çev. Bilgin, Z. İstanbul: Kronik Kitap, 2021, ss. 348, ISBN: 978-975-2430-02-0.
The Origin of the Scythians and the Identity of the Scythians and the Alans in John Tzetzes’ Work
Authors: ŞENGÜL Fatih
Published: February 2024

Much has been said about the origin of the Scythians, but no academician or researcher has ever been able to provide evidence to reveal the identity of the Scythians. Today, the prevailing view about the origin of the Scythians is the view that they are of Indo-European origin. And this argument is supported by Western academics. No written sources say that the Scythians were of Indo-European origin or spoke an Indo-European language. The only thing that makes those a community of Indo-European origin is the arbitrary explanations of the personal names belonging to their language in Indo-European languages and the kinship relationship established between the Ossetians and Alans. No consistent explanation of the words of the Scythian language in Indo-European languages has been provided to date. However, very recently, in the light of written sources, more than one piece of evidence has been presented to shed light on the origins of the Scythians. This article aims to reveal the true identity of the Scythians and Alans in the work of the 12th-century Byzantine writer John Tzetzes in the ligt of these new evidences.
Matsui, D. Old Uigur Administrative Orders from Turfan. Turnhout: Brepols Publishers, 2023, pp. xxviii+240. ISBN: 978-2-503-60489-3.
Authors: DEMİRYAKAN Deniz
Published: February 2024

Matsui, D. Old Uigur Administrative Orders from Turfan. Turnhout: Brepols Publishers, 2023, pp. xxviii+240. ISBN: 978-2-503-60489-3
Evaluating the relative impact of a virtual school visit as part of Intensive Training and Practice (ITaP) in initial teacher education: Study protocol for a mixed-methods randomised trial
Authors: Lymperis Lydia , Turner Ellen , Davey Calum , Beach Emily , Hudson Georgina , Nash Robert , Swartz Alex
Published: February 2024

Background: Intensive Training and Practice (ITaP) is an element of teacher training that isrequired of initial teacher education in England. ITaP focuses on theory and evidence relating toone aspect of teaching with opportunities for practice and feedback. A pilot of ITaP was conductedby the National Institute of Teaching in 2022, revealing that hybrid delivery of key componentscould help scale ITaP to reach many trainees with consistency. However, there is limited evidenceabout how best to deliver remote and blended learning in the context of teacher educationprogrammes.Methods: This study will compare the effectiveness of two modes of implementing exposure toexpert practice as part of the ITaP programme: virtual school visits and in-person school visits. Thestudy's objectives are twofold: to estimate the relative effectiveness of virtual school visitscompared to in-person ones in ITaP, and to better understand the experiences and perceivedchallenges and opportunities of these two instructional modalities.The target population is teacher trainees in England pursuing specialisms in secondary education.The trial will use a parallel crossover design: trainees will be divided into two groups, eachexperiencing one mode of visit before crossing over to the other. In-person visits will involve liveclassroom observations in a school setting, while virtual visits will allow trainees to observe lessonsremotely via live streaming from a school.We will assess outcomes related to trainees' grasp of the evidence base around the effective useof questioning and scaffolding techniques, their ability to apply knowledge, self-efficacy, and theirperceptions of the school visit day and ITaP as a whole.Discussion: The findings will offer valuable insights into the impact of each training modality ontrainees' understanding, engagement, confidence, and practical application of knowledge.