bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Intricacies of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Preliminary Study of Redox Biology in Intestinal Organoids
Authors: Csukovich Georg , Huainig Janina , Troester Selina , Pratscher Barbara , Burgener Iwan Anton
Published: September 2023

We evaluated the redox status, precisely glutathione levels, which have a major impact in cellular detoxification and antioxidant defence in IBD-derived and healthy intestinal organoids. Therefore, we wanted to explore the differences in terms of their redox balance and mitochondrial fitness. To this end, we introduced a Grx1-roGFP2 construct into the organoids by lentiviral transduction before performing a stress assay by treating the organoids with hydrogen peroxide and examined the GSH/GSSG ratio using confocal imaging. Using ratio imaging, we could detect statistically significant differences between healthy and IBD-derived samples. To gain more insight, we also performed a GSH/GSSG assay, which directly measured glutathione levels. This analysis revealed that both organoid lines had higher levels of oxidized glutathione due to the stress treatment demonstrated by a lower GSH/GSSG ratio compared to the untreated control. Nevertheless, the results showed no significant difference between healthy and IBD-derived organoids. We further challenged organoids with hydrogen peroxide after incubation with MitoTracker® to see if mitochondrial fitness might be different in IBD-derived organoids. However, these results were also very comparable. In summary, our preliminary findings indicate that both organoid lines demonstrate a well-functioning system in terms of analysis but show no clear difference between healthy and IBD-derived samples.
Exosomes: Potential Next-Generation Nanocarriers for the Therapy of Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Mori Tosca , Giovannelli Lisa , Bilia Anna Rita , Margheri Francesca
Published: September 2023

Inflammatory diseases are common pathological processes caused by various acute and chronic factors, and some of them are autoimmune diseases. Exosomes are fundamental extracellular vesicles secreted by almost all cells, which contain a series of constituents, i.e., cytoskeletal and cytosolic proteins (actin, tubulin, and histones), nucleic acids (mRNA, miRNA, and DNA), lipids (diacylglycerophosphates, cholesterol, sphingomyelin, and ceramide), and other bioactive components (cytokines, signal transduction proteins, enzymes, antigen presentation and membrane transport/fusion molecules, and adhesion molecules). This review will be a synopsis of the knowledge on the contribution of exosomes from different cell sources as possible therapeutic agents against inflammation, focusing on several inflammatory diseases, neurological diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, intestinal bowel disease, asthma, and liver and kidney injuries. Current knowledge indicates that the role of exosomes in the therapy of inflammation and in inflammatory diseases could be distinctive. The main limitations to their clinical translation are still production, isolation, and storage. Additionally, there is an urgent need to personalize the treatments in terms of the selection of exosomes; their dosages and routes of administration; and a deeper knowledge about their biodistribution, type and incidence of adverse events, and long-term effects of exosomes. In conclusion, exosomes can be a very promising next-generation therapeutic option, superior to synthetic nanocarriers and cell therapy, and can represent a new strategy of effective, safe, versatile, and selective delivery systems in the future.
Experimental Direct Measurement of the Relative Entropy of Coherence
Authors: Huang Xufeng , Yuan Yuan , Niu Yueping , Gong Shangqing
Published: September 2023

Quantum coherence is the most distinguished feature of quantum mechanics, which characterizes the superposition properties of quantum states. It plays a critical role in various fields, ranging from quantum information technology to quantum biology. Although various coherence quantifiers have been proposed since the resource theory of coherence was established, there are a lack of experimental methods to estimate them efficiently, which restricts the applications of coherence. Relative entropy of coherence is one of the main quantifiers of coherence, and is frequently used in quantum information science. Such nonlinear properties of quantum states are usually calculated from full descriptions of the quantum state, although they are not related to all parameters that specify the state. Here, we experimentally measure the relative entropy of coherence for the arbitrary qubit states directly in the photonic system without using standard state tomography. In the experiment, we directly measure the von Neumann entropy of the quantum states through interference, thus obtaining the relative entropy of coherence, and finding that the experimental results are in good agreement with the theory. Our work provides a nice alternative experimental scheme for measuring the relative entropy of coherence.
An Insight to the Outage Performance of Multi-Hop Mixed RF/FSO/UWOC System
Authors: Alhashim Hala H. , Mayet Abdulilah Mohammad , Shukla Neeraj Kumar , Birla Shilpi , Aggarwal Mona , Vats Anshul , Kaushal Hemani , Kuchhal Piyush , Qaisi Ramy Mohammed Aiesh , Sabherwal Pooja , Muqeet Mohammed Abdul
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we investigate the outage performance of the three-hop mixed system integrating radio frequency (RF), free space optics (FSO), and under water optical communication (UWOC) system. The closed-form analytical expressions for the outage probability of the system are derived. In the considered system, the RF channel follows the Nakagami-m distribution, the FSO channel observes the Gamma-Gamma fading statistics, and the UWOC link experiences a mixture Exponential Generalized Gamma (EGG) fading distribution. To verify the derived analytical expressions, numerical simulations are also carried out, and we present the influence of the various link parameters such as path loss, atmospheric turbulence, pointing errors, angle-of-arrival fluctuations, water salinity, and scintillation on the performance of the decode and forward (DF) relayed multi-hop communication system.
Eco-Design of Polymer Matrix Composite Parts: A Review
Authors: Lazăr Sergiu , Dobrotă Dan , Breaz Radu-Eugen , Racz Sever-Gabriel
Published: September 2023

This research presents a series of analyses related to the eco-design of polymer matrix composite parts, addressing various aspects of it. The main objective was to clarify the definition of ecological design, the benefits of its implementation and its importance in all stages of obtaining a product (design, manufacturing, recycling). Global environmental issues are presented, emphasizing the importance of adopting sustainable approaches in product design and manufacturing. Special attention is paid to the analysis of waste recycling technologies for polymer matrix composite materials. The analysis carried out identifies specific ecological design principles applicable to these materials and presents recent trends in the field. Relevant case studies are highlighted, demonstrating the benefits of ecological design in order to obtain sustainable products. Additionally, the conducted research allowed for finding answers to the questions “what”, “why”, “when” and “how” it is necessary to apply the principles of eco-design in the case of composite materials with a polymer matrix. In general, the research promotes eco-design as an indispensable strategy for sustainable and responsible production, inspiring companies to adopt these principles for the benefit of the environment and their business performance.
Progress in the Preparation of Stimulus-Responsive Cellulose Hydrogels and Their Application in Slow-Release Fertilizers
Authors: Li Zhenghui , Zhang Ming
Published: September 2023

Agriculture is facing challenges such as water scarcity, low fertilizer utilization, food security and environmental sustainability. Therefore, the development of slow-release fertilizer (SRF) with controlled water retention and release is particularly important. Slow-release fertilizer hydrogel (SRFH) has a three-dimensional (3D) network structure combined with fertilizer processing, displaying excellent hydrophilicity, biocompatibility and controllability. Cellulose has abundant hydroxyl groups as well as outstanding biodegradability and special mechanical properties, which make it a potential candidate material for the fabrication of hydrogels. This work would analyze and discuss various methods for preparing stimulus-responsive cellulose hydrogels and their combinations with different fertilizers. Moreover, the application and release mechanism of stimulus-responsive cellulose hydrogels in SRF have been summarized as well. Finally, we would explore the potential issues of stimulus-responsive cellulose hydrogels serving as an SRF, propose reasonable solutions and give an outlook of the future research directions.
Stradivari’s Varnish Revisited: Feature Improvements Using Chemical Modification
Authors: Weththimuni Maduka L. , Fiocco Giacomo , Milanese Chiara , Spinella Alberto , Saladino Maria Luisa , Malagodi Marco , Licchelli Maurizio
Published: September 2023

The most widespread varnish formulations used by master violin-makers of the “Italian Golden Age”, including Antonio Stradivari, were based on mixtures of siccative oils (e.g., linseed oil) and natural resins (e.g., colophony). Similar formulations are still used for the finish of contemporary instruments. Although most precious violins made by Stradivari and other Cremonese Masters are kept in museums, several instruments are still played and their finish may undergo deterioration due to contact with the players. Moreover, the decay of the traditional varnish may occur due to mechanical stress and natural aging caused by environmental agents (e.g., exposure to uncontrolled light, humidity, and temperature changes). The main aim of this research work is to investigate the possible improvement of varnish resistance to the decay induced by different aging processes. For this purpose, the traditional varnish (linseed oil/colophony 3:1 w/w) was recreated in the laboratory following an ancient recipe and then it was functionalized with a cross-linking agent (3-Glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, GLYMO). Plain and functionalized varnishes underwent artificial aging (UV light, temperature, and humidity variations), and their properties were comparatively studied using different techniques. All the results suggest that the functionalized varnish displays improved resistance to the aging process and particularly enhanced photostability and increased hardness (resistance to scratches).
Central Hunan Lutheran Church’s Progress toward Self-Reliance (1902–1951): A Study Based on the Archives of the Norwegian Missionary Society
Authors: Zhou Wuna
Published: September 2023

In 1902, the Norwegian Missionary Society (NMS) sent its first missionaries to central Hunan, China, to preach and set up a local Lutheran Church. Missionaries in China traditionally had a sense of religious superiority. At that time, Chinese Christians were experiencing a series of national crises, and their desire for self-reliance correlated with a rise in the national consciousness. Hunan’s Christians demanded autonomy for the Church, causing tension with the Western missionaries’ sense of superiority. The Central Hunan Lutheran Church realized a balanced transfer of authority through contradiction and dialogue. The establishment of a Chinese and Western Council aided gradual realization of Hunan Christians’ demand for self-reliance, and in 1922, the rise of an anti-Christian movement with strong anti-imperialist sentiments triggered further moves toward Church independence. However, local churches faced many difficulties and progress was slow, owing to the economic situation, the lack of material foundation, local Christians’ weak theological foundation and a highly mobile population. This article examines how Christians in Hunan responded to the huge gap between their own will and the conditions they faced, illustrating the historical process of cross-cultural cooperation as cultures collided.
Fabrication of Ultra-Stable and Customized High-Temperature Speckle Patterns Using Air Plasma Spraying and Flexible Speckle Templates
Authors: Lu Ning , Yu Liping , Wang Qianqian , Pan Bing
Published: September 2023

Reliable and accurate full-field deformation measurements at elevated temperatures using digital image correlation (DIC) require stable and high-contrast high-temperature speckle patterns to be prepared on the sample surface. However, conventional high-temperature speckle patterns fabricated by the existing methods possess several limitations, e.g., easily fail to preserve original pattern features due to the harsh environment and heavily dependent on the operator’s experience. In this study, we propose a reliable and reproducible high-temperature speckle fabrication method based on air plasma spraying (APS) and flexible speckle templates. This method involves covering the sample surface with pre-designed speckle templates and then spraying the melted speckle powders onto the specimen surface using an air plasma spray technique to obtain customized speckle patterns. The validity of the proposed method was verified by the speckle fabrication on both planar and curved samples and heating tests with these samples. Experimental results demonstrate that the speckle patterns made by the proposed method adhere well to the sample surface, remain stable during the heating process, and exhibit excellent agreement with the reference values in terms of the thermal expansion coefficients. The proposed method provides a reliable and efficient way to create customized and stable speckle patterns for accurate high-temperature DIC measurements.
The Implications of Digitalization in Retail Service Delivery on Circular Economy in Nigeria: An Exploratory Case Study
Authors: Olaghere John Ayo , Inegbedion Henry Egbezien , Osiobe Faith Ogheneriode
Published: September 2023

The circular economy (CE) model has gained greater recognition and acceptance in recent years for its potential to enhance sustainability. Within this context, many practices in the retail sector are being overhauled through technological innovation, thereby changing the business landscape. Digitalization facilitates this transformation to mitigate the impacts of climate change without sacrificing productivity. This article explored the implications of digitalization in retail processes for CE in Nigeria and advanced practices that improve efficiency. Research efforts on circularity and digitalization have concentrated on advanced economies; consequently, little is known about the situation in lower-income countries. Due to the exploratory nature of this research, a qualitative approach that combined multiple data sources was adopted. Specifically, a case study of four major grocery retailers was carried out through documentary evidence supplemented by integrating thematic categories from semi-structured interviews with seasoned retail professionals. The findings revealed that (i) the circularity paradigm is a relatively vague concept among retailers in Nigeria; (ii) digital technologies are adopted primarily for the business value they create rather than to regenerate the ecosystem; (iii) the retailers have adopted technological processes such as e-commerce channel, automation, real-time tracking, social media marketing, and digital payment; and (iv) retailers familiar with circularity favor shortening supply chains by investing in rural hubs, food waste reduction, and closed-loops and reducing the use of non-biodegradable packaging. Retail managers could gain insights from these results to move towards CE, foster efficient business processes, and enhance customer satisfaction.
The Construction of an Evaluation Index System for Assistive Teaching Robots Aimed at Sustainable Learning
Authors: Su Pei-Yao , Zhao Zi-Ying , Shao Qi-Gan , Lin Pei-Yuan , Li Zhe
Published: September 2023

A typical example of a robot used in education is the assistive teaching robot, which has much potential to enhance teaching and learning as well as to promote sustainable learning. However, there needs to be formalized selection and evaluation procedures for robotic teaching assistants. To address this need, this paper presents a function evaluation system framework for assistive teaching robots, which includes four dimensions: system structure, appearance interface, teaching function, and auxiliary support. This study employed the framework of the DANP method to examine the extent of influence of various indicators. The analysis focused on determining the critical components of the function evaluation system for assistive teaching robots. Ultimately, the study concluded that two crucial factors in this evaluation system emerged: teaching function and auxiliary support. These two aspects are also key elements in promoting sustainable learning. Moreover, recommendations are made for designing and selecting suitable assistive teaching robot products, aiming to serve as an exemplary framework for future product development and implementing educational activities within school settings, while further contributing to the realization of sustainable learning.
Hospital Disaster Preparedness: A Comprehensive Evaluation Using the Hospital Safety Index
Authors: Goniewicz Mariusz , Khorram-Manesh Amir , Timler Dariusz , Al-Wathinani Ahmed M. , Goniewicz Krzysztof
Published: September 2023

Mass-casualty incidents and disaster scenarios pose significant challenges for medical facilities, necessitating robust preparedness measures. This study aimed to evaluate the preparedness of a specific medical facility in Poland, using the hospital safety index (HSI). A comprehensive analysis of structural, functional, and organizational factors was conducted, assessing facility infrastructure, technical facilities, safety standards, work organization, cooperation with external facilities, human resource management, crisis planning, and communication strategies. The facility exhibited strengths in infrastructural requirements and inter-facility cooperation. Areas of improvement included adherence to safety procedures, crisis communication, and the frequency of evacuation drills. Furthermore, recommendations were provided for enhancing nurse reserves, adopting lean management, promoting a safety culture, and refining business continuity plans. The findings should be interpreted with caution, due to the single-facility focus, potential HSI protocol subjectivity, and the possible Hawthorne effect. This study underscores the importance of continuous research and improvement in crisis management strategies and disaster-victim care, emphasizing the pivotal role of the HSI as an evaluative tool.
Effect of Light Treatment and Maturity Stage on Biomass Production and Bioactive Compounds of Two Pepper Cultivars under a Deep Water Culture Hydroponic System
Authors: Kurucz Erika , Antal Gabriella , Kincses Ida , Sipos Marianna , Fári Miklós Gábor , Holb Imre J.
Published: September 2023

Previous pepper studies indicated that biomass production and the amounts of bioactive compounds were dependent on light sources, maturity processes and pepper genotypes. However, the above topic has received little attention in supplemental light versus cultivar combinations under a hydroponic growing system. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the biomass production (fruit, root, stem and leaf) and fruit bioactive compounds (vitamin C, total flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity-AC-FRAP, total polyphenol-TPC) of two pepper cultivars (‘Fehérözön’-Fö and ‘Szegedi 80’-S80) in three fruit maturity stages (green, beaker and red) under two LED light treatments (full-F and blue-white-BW spectrums) in a deep water culture hydroponic system. The stem biomass and water use for total and fruit biomass were significantly different for cultivars and light treatments. Light treatments, maturity stages and cultivars had significant effects on fruit biomass production and on all bioactive compounds. However, the results on the bioactive compounds varied according to the green, beaker and red maturity stages of the two pepper cultivars. In correlation analyses, 30 pair-variables correlated significantly and nine showed values r > 0.9 for fruit weight versus (vs.) vitamin C, fruit weight vs. AC-FRAP, fruit weight vs. TPC, vitamin C vs. AC-FRAP, vitamin C vs. TPC, AC-FRAP vs. TPC, and flavonoid vs. TPC. This study suggested that additional lights and maturity features of cultivar genotype strongly determined the biomass and bioactive compounds of pepper under a deep water culture hydroponic system.
An Empirical Study of a Passive Exterior Window for an Office Building in the Context of Ultra-Low Energy
Authors: Yu Haibo , Zhang Hui , Han Xiaolin , Gao Ningcheng , Ke Zikang , Yan Junle
Published: September 2023

As the energy crisis continues to intensify and with increasing awareness of global climate change, the issue of high energy consumption and emissions in buildings is garnering more attention. Windows have significant research value and importance as pivotal components in the development of ultra-low-energy buildings. This study presents a proposal for a passive exterior window considering the climatic conditions prevalent in the hot summer and cold winter zone of China. Firstly, an experimental platform was established outside a standard office to conduct tests and analyze the indoor thermal environment for four different scenarios in the summer and winter by comparing a passive room (PR) and non-passive room (NPR), respectively. The human apparent temperature was calculated based on the collected thermal environment data and subsequently evaluated. Lastly, the indoor environmental temperature (IET), window surface temperature (WST), and apparent temperature (AT) data were subjected to non-linear fitting regression analysis using Origin software. The primary aim of this analysis was to examine the impact of the passive exterior window on the indoor thermal environment and establish the feasibility of implementing such a window in the hot summer and cold winter zone of China. The results showed that: (1) in the summer, the IET and WST in the PR exhibited reductions of 0.8 °C and 0.6 °C, respectively, under ventilated conditions compared to the NPR; (2) in the winter, the IET and WST of the PR remained lower compared to those of the NPR (however, the temperature differential between the IET and WST in the PR amounted to 6.8 °C and 7.7 °C, respectively, while the corresponding disparity in the NPR was 8.1 °C and 9.3 °C); and (3) regarding the AT, during summer ventilation, the PR exhibited a substantial reduction of up to 3.5 °C in comparison to the NPR. Moreover, in the context of winter, the time for indoor human thermal perception to reach a comfortable level was extended by 0.5 h. Future investigations will delve into the influence of passive exterior windows on building energy consumption, and this research can provide a practical reference for energy-efficient design and retrofitting of exterior windows in the region.
Toward Economically Efficient Carbon Reduction: Contrasting Greening Plastic Supply Chains with Alternative Energy Policy Approaches
Authors: Yoshimoto Yuuki , Kishimoto Koki , Sen Kanchan Kumar , Mochida Takako , Chapman Andrew
Published: September 2023

As nations around the world strive to achieve carbon neutrality, many policies have been implemented at varying costs and levels of efficacy. Although carbon emissions are dominated by the power, industry, transport, and building sectors, the plastics sector is responsible for a significant 4.5% of global emissions and is the fastest-growing material production sector. This study seeks to identify the economic and carbon-reduction potential of the greening of plastic supply chains compared to existing carbon-reduction regimes. Utilizing literature review, lifecycle analysis and multicriteria analysis cognizant of cost, carbon-reduction potential, quality, and recyclability, this paper identifies the performance of virgin, recycled, and bioplastics under a number of scenarios. We find that recycled plastics offer a low-cost carbon-reduction potential; however, concerns about perceived quality remain. While no single plastic type or source can satisfy all criteria, the satisfaction of manufacturer and end user concerns is critical to reducing CO2 via plastic supply-chain greening and the move away from crude-oil-based plastics. The reallocation of subsidies from less effective carbon-reduction policies toward supply-chain greening may offer benefits and stimulate the emergence of a quality control system to overcome manufacturer and user concerns.
Analysis of the Synergies of Cutting Air Pollutants and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in an Integrated Iron and Steel Enterprise in China
Authors: Chan Yatfei , Tang Haoyue , Li Xiao , Ma Weichun , Tang Weiqi
Published: September 2023

The iron and steel industry in China is characterized by high energy consumption, high air pollutant emissions and high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and it is imperative to reduce air pollutants and control GHG emissions in the present and future. Quantifying the synergistic effects of air pollutants and GHG emissions reduction in the ISI is helpful for controlling the emissions of both jointly. Taking a typical integrated iron and steel works as a case study, the synergistic effect between the environmental impacts (EIs) of air pollutants and GHGs under different scenarios was quantified through a life cycle assessment (LCA). The total environmental impact of the business-as-usual scenario, ultra-low emissions scenario, carbon peak scenario and comprehensive emission reduction scenario were 1.629 × 10−10, 1.670 × 10−10, 1.322 × 10−10 and 1.341 × 10−10, respectively. Based on the analysis of synergistic effects, the comprehensive emission reduction scenario combined the other two to better coordinate the emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases.
Exploring the Effects of Computer and Smart Device-Assisted Learning on Students’ Achievements: Empirical Evidence from Korea
Authors: Lee Hojun , Kim Youngsik
Published: September 2023

Computer and Smart Device-assisted Learning (CSDL) has gained increasing attention from educational researchers and practitioners in recent years. However, it remains controversial whether students can benefit from CSDL and what moderators could affect the impact of CSDL. Within the specific context of Korea, where the interest in digital education is steadily increasing, the number of empirical studies exploring the causal effect of CSDL remains relatively scarce. The primary objective of this empirical study was to investigate the impact of CSDL on students’ academic achievements in Korea. To achieve this objective, a two-way fixed effect model was employed, utilizing a panel dataset spanning three years derived from the “Korean Education Longitudinal Study 2013”. The findings revealed a significant positive impact of CSDL on students’ mathematics achievements. Notably, higher income levels, increased availability of computer resources provided by schools, and the implementation of more individualized education were identified as factors that moderate the effect of CSDL on students’ achievement levels in Korean and English subjects. These findings underscore the need for an approach that optimizes the educational benefits of CSDL by considering subject-specific characteristics. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of allocating educational resources, such as computers and smart devices, and integrating individualized educational activities within the classroom environment.
EFL Learners’ Collocation Acquisition and Learning in Corpus-Based Instruction: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sun Wei , Park Eunjeong
Published: September 2023

This systematic review critically examines 32 previous empirical studies on corpus-based collocation acquisition and learning in EFL contexts, aiming to identify the research contexts, corpus types, instructional methods, and how corpus-based training affects EFL students’ acquisition and learning of collocations. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of corpus-based collocation instruction and its effectiveness in enhancing learners’ collocation acquisition and learning. It makes use of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach to achieve these objectives. The findings reveal a progressive growth in research and publications on corpus-based collocation acquisition and learning, indicating its increasing significance in language education. This review highlights the wide applicability of corpus-based approaches across different language learning contexts, particularly among English language learners in foreign language settings. It also underscores the global significance of corpus-based collocation instruction, with attention and research conducted in various countries, notably, in Asian regions. This review discusses the positive effects of corpus-based tools and data-driven learning on collocation acquisition and learning, demonstrating the improvement in learners’ collocation knowledge, usage, and retention by comparing and summarizing research results. However, conflicting results regarding implicit and explicit instruction methods warrant further investigation. The collective findings of the reviewed studies contribute valuable insights into the effectiveness of different instructional methods and call for further research to optimize collocation instruction strategies with both theoretical and pedagogical implications.
Towards Sustainable Composting of Source-Separated Biodegradable Municipal Solid Waste—Insights from Long An Province, Vietnam
Authors: Huynh Tan Loi , Le Thi Kim Oanh , Wong Yong Jie , Phan Chi Tuong , Trinh Thi Long
Published: September 2023

Inadequate municipal solid waste (MSW) management has become a pressing concern, resulting in significant environmental contamination, particularly in developing countries. Composting has demonstrated its practicality and feasibility for addressing this issue; however, the lack of at-source solid waste separation remains a major challenge. As a result, in this study, the first sustainable MSW separation at source was conducted in Tan An City, Long An Province. The objective of this study was to evaluate the compost process and quality using Tan An City’s separated biodegradable organic solid waste as the raw material, through a windrow composting process with active aeration. Biodegradable organic waste, slow-biodegradable organic waste and plastic waste accounted for 84.5%, 15.1% and 0.4%, respectively, of the total waste. The pH, moisture, volatile solid percentage, total nitrogen, total organic carbon and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of the separated solid waste were 8.7 ± 0.4, 76.8 ± 1.9%, 68.3 ± 1.3%, 2.1 ± 0.1%, 35.7 ± 2.2% and 17 ± 0.8, respectively. Rice straw was mixed with solid waste as a bulking material in a 31%:69% ratio to achieve a moisture content of 55% in the mixture. After 10 weeks, an evaluation of the compost’s quality revealed its potential suitability for agricultural applications. Notably, Salmonella was not detected in the compost, and the heavy metal levels were below standard limits, indicating the safety of the compost. To ensure optimal nutrient levels for effective plant growth, a slight nitrogen and phosphorus supplement was recommended. Aligned with the C/N ratio of 12.1 and a consistent temperature of approximately 29 °C, this indicates a high degree of maturity and stability in the composting process. The framework of this study demonstrates the effectiveness of at-source MSW separation in paving a sustainable path for MSW management.
The Effect of Benevolent Leadership on Job Engagement through Psychological Safety and Workplace Friendship Prevalence in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry
Authors: Khairy Hazem Ahmed , Liu Sijun , Sheikhelsouk Samar , EI-Sherbeeny Ahmed M. , Alsetoohy Omar , Al-Romeedy Bassam Samir
Published: September 2023

This study examines how job engagement (JE) is affected by benevolent leadership (BL). This study also explores psychological safety (PS) and workplace friendship (WF) as mediators. Data were collected from employees working in Egypt’s five-star hotels and category (A) travel agencies. There were 320 valid responses that were analyzed using PLS-SEM. The findings demonstrated that there is a positive relationship between benevolent leadership and job engagement. There were positive relationships between benevolent leadership and PS/WF. The findings also revealed a positive relationship between PS/WF and job engagement. In addition, the findings revealed that psychological safety and workplace friendship mediate the relationship between BL and JE. This research contributes to the studies on BL, PS, and WF in terms of JE, specifically in the hospitality and tourism context. It also includes suggestions for enhancing the workplace environment in hotel and tourism enterprises via BL, PS, and WF.
Promoting Sustainable Learning in the Post-Pandemic Era: Focused on the Role of Motivation, Growth Mindset, Self-Regulated Learning, Well-Being, and Smart Device Utilization
Authors: Lee Jooyoung , Kwon Ki Han
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented changes to the education system, forcing students to adapt to new ways of learning and increasing their reliance on smart devices. This has raised questions about the impact of smart device utilization on various factors related to student learning, including motivation, growth mindset, self-regulation, and well-being, which we aim to explore. A systematic literature review was conducted for analysis. In particular, it seeks to identify the challenges and opportunities arising from the increased use of smart devices for learning, and to examine the potential impact of smart device use on students’ motivation, mindset, and well-being. This paper examines intrinsic motivation, self-regulation, social cognition, and emotion. Existing research will be utilized to investigate variables related to learning motivation, including cognitive factors and emotions. Finally, this paper will examine the relationship between well-being and academic success and the potential impact of smart device usage on student well-being. In conclusion, to support learning motivation and well-being, it is important for educators to promote a growth mindset and to monitor changes in device use to assess their impact on student outcomes. By taking these actions, educators can help students develop the skills and resilience needed to succeed in these new learning environments and succeed in the future.
Influencing Factors and Their Influencing Mechanisms on Integrated Power and Gas System Coupling
Authors: Pang Min , Zhang Yichang , He Sha , Li Qiong
Published: September 2023

In order to study the deep mechanism of integrated power–gas system (IPGS) coupling, the influencing factors of IPGS coupling are investigated using the Decision Making Test and Evaluation Test–Interpretative Structural Modeling–Method-Cross-Impact Matrix Multiplication Method (DEMATEL-ISM-MACMIC). By means of a literature review and field research, on the basis of summarizing and forming an index system of IPGS coupling influence factors, this study establishes an IPGS coupling influence factor model based on the DEMATEL-ISM-MACMIC method, analyzes the attribute characteristics of each factor influencing IPGS coupling and extracts the key elements, explores the logical relationships among the factors, and finally, puts forward relevant suggestions, in order to provide theoretical and methodological support for this field of research. This study shows that the economic base, resource endowment, and economic and social development of the country are the most important factors. The study shows that the bottom-level factors, such as economic base and resource endowment; the middle-level factors, such as energy structure and market mechanism; and the surface-level factors, such as technology level and market price, are important factors influencing IPGS coupling, and the focus should be on the above factors.
Carbon Management for Intelligent Community with Combined Heat and Power Systems
Authors: Cao Yongsheng , Zhao Caiping , Li Demin
Published: September 2023

In recent years, solar power technology and energy storage technology have advanced, leading to the increased use of solar power devices and energy storage systems in residential areas. Carbon management has become an important method to help the community manager guide energy consumption in a timely manner, effectively reduce the carbon emissions of the community, and reduce the substantial harm to the environment. This paper aims to study the issue of carbon management and resource allocation in an intelligent community with combined heat and power (CHP) systems and solar power. The presence of heterogeneous load demands in the power grid was considered. The main objective was to minimize the average system cost over time, which included the costs associated with the power grid and gas. The Lyapunov optimization theory was employed to solve the non-convex optimization problem of carbon management and resource allocation without energy sharing. To solve the energy-sharing problem, we designed an energy-sharing algorithm based on the Q-learning algorithm. Lastly, we conducted extensive simulations using actual trace data to validate the effectiveness of our proposed algorithms.
A Green Approach to Preparing Vaterite CaCO3 for Clean Utilization of Steamed Ammonia Liquid Waste and CO2 Mineralization
Authors: Song Xuewen , Tuo Yuxin , Li Dan , Hua Xinrui , Wang Ruomeng , Xue Jiwei , Yang Renhe , Bu Xianzhong , Luo Xianping
Published: September 2023

In the salt lake industry, large amounts of steamed ammonia liquid waste are discharged as byproducts. The conversion of the residues into high value-added vaterite-phase calcium carbonate products for industrial applications is highly desirable. In this research, the feasibility of preparing vaterite-phase CaCO3 in different CaCl2-CO2-MOH-H2O systems using steamed ammonia liquid waste was studied in the absence of additives. The effects of initial CaCl2 concentration, stirring speed and CO2 flow rate on the composition of the CaCO3 crystal phase were investigated. The contents of vaterite were researched by the use of steamed ammonia liquid waste as a calcium source and pure calcium chloride as a contrast. The influence of the concentration of CNH3·H2O/CCa2+ on the carbonation ratio and crystal phase composition was studied. The reaction conditions on the content, particle size and morphology of vaterite influence were discussed. It was observed that single vaterite-phase CaCO3 was favored in the CaCl2-CO2-NH4OH-H2O system. Additionally, the impurity ions in steamed ammonia liquid waste play a key role in the nucleation and crystallization of vaterite, which could affect the formation of single-phase vaterite. The obtained results provided a novel method for the preparation of single vaterite particles with the utilization of CO2 and offered a selective method for the extensive utilization of steamed ammonia liquid waste.
An Updated Review on Imaging and Staging of Anal Cancer—Not Just Rectal Cancer
Authors: Congedo Alessio , Mallardi Davide , Danti Ginevra , De Muzio Federica , Granata Vincenza , Miele Vittorio
Published: September 2023

Anal cancer is a rare disease, but its incidence has been increasing steadily. Primary staging and assessment after chemoradiation therapy are commonly performed using MRI, which is considered to be the preferred imaging modality. CT and PET/CT are useful in evaluating lymph node metastases and distant metastatic disease. Anal squamous-cell carcinoma (ASCC) and rectal adenocarcinoma are typically indistinguishable on MRI, and a biopsy prior to imaging is necessary to accurately stage the tumor and determine the treatment approach. This review discusses the histology, MR technique, diagnosis, staging, and treatment of anal cancer, with a particular focus on the differences in TNM staging between anal and rectal carcinomas. Purpose: This review discusses the histology, MR technique, diagnosis, staging, and treatment of anal cancer, with a particular focus on the differences in TNM staging between anal squamous-cell carcinoma (ASCC) and rectal adenocarcinoma. Methods and materials: To conduct this updated review, a comprehensive literature search was performed using prominent medical databases, including PubMed and Embase. The search was limited to articles published within the last 10 years (2013–2023) to ensure their relevance to the current state of knowledge. Inclusion criteria: (1) articles that provided substantial information on the diagnostic techniques used for ASCC, mainly focusing on imaging, were included; (2) studies reporting on emerging technologies; (3) English-language articles. Exclusion criteria: articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria, case reports, or articles with insufficient data. The primary outcome of this review is to assess the accuracy and efficacy of different diagnostic modalities, including CT, MRI, and PET, in diagnosing ASCC. The secondary outcomes are as follows: (1) to identify any advancements or innovations in diagnostic techniques for ASCC over the past decade; (2) to highlight the challenges and limitations of the diagnostic process. Results: ASCC is a rare disease; however, its incidence has been steadily increasing. Primary staging and assessment after chemoradiation therapy are commonly performed using MRI, which is considered to be the preferred imaging modality. CT and PET/CT are useful in evaluating lymph node metastases and distant metastatic disease. Conclusion: ASCC and rectal adenocarcinoma are the most common histological subtypes and are typically indistinguishable on MRI; therefore, a biopsy prior to imaging is necessary to stage the tumor accurately and determine the treatment approach.
Action of Botulinum Neurotoxin E Type in Experimental Epilepsies
Authors: Antonucci Flavia , Bozzi Yuri
Published: September 2023

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are zinc endopeptidases produced by the Clostridium genus of anerobic bacteria, largely known for their ability to cleave synaptic proteins, leading to neuromuscular paralysis. In the central nervous system, BoNTs are known to block the release of glutamate neurotransmitter, and for this reason, researchers explored the possible therapeutic action in disorders characterized by neuronal hyperactivity, such as epilepsy. Thus, using multidisciplinary approaches and models of experimental epilepsy, we investigated the pharmacological potential of BoNT/E serotype. In this review, written in memory of Prof. Matteo Caleo, a pioneer in these studies, we go back over the hypotheses and experimental approaches that led us to the conclusion that intrahippocampal administration of BoNT/E (i) displays anticonvulsant effects if prophylactically delivered in a model of acute generalized seizures; (ii) does not have any antiepileptogenic action after the induction of status epilepticus; (iii) reduces frequency of spontaneous seizures in a model of recurrent seizures if delivered during the chronic phase but in a transient manner. Indeed, the control on spontaneous seizures stops when BoNT/E effects are off (few days), thus limiting its pharmacological potential in humans.
X-ray Spectroscopic Study of Low-Mass X-ray Binaries: A Review of Recent Progress via the Example of GX 339-4
Authors: Pszota Gábor , Kovács Endre
Published: September 2023

Low-mass X-ray binaries (LMXB) serve as natural laboratories, where the predictions of general relativity can be tested in the strong field regime. The primary object of such sources can be a neutron star (NS) or a black hole (BH), and this object captures material from the secondary object through the inner Lagrange point via a process called Roche lobe overflow. Because of the angular momentum of the infalling matter, an accretion disk is formed, in which viscous effects transport the angular momentum radially outward. In the high/soft state of these sources, the accretion disk can extend all the way to the innermost stable circular orbit (ISCO); therefore, when the primary object is a BH, its X-ray spectrum contains information about the region very close to the event horizon. This paper aims to review the theoretical and observational works related to the X-ray spectroscopy of such sources via the example of GX 339-4, which is one of the most well-known and well-studied LMXBs.
Snow Albedo Reduction in the Colombian Andes Mountains Due to 2000 to 2020 Saharan Dust Intrusions Events
Authors: Bolaño-Ortiz Tomás R. , Díaz-Gutiérrez Viverlys L. , Vélez-Pereira Andrés M. , Vergara-Vásquez Eliana L. , Camargo-Caicedo Yiniva
Published: September 2023

This article investigates the snow albedo changes in Colombian tropical glaciers, namely, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (SNSM), Sierra Nevada del Cocuy (NSC), Nevado del Ruíz (NDR), Nevado Santa Isabel (NDS), Nevado del Tolima (NDT), and Nevado del Huila (NDH). They are associated with the possible mineral dust deposition from the Sahara Desert during the June and July months using snow albedo (SA), snow cover (SC), and land surface temperature (LST) from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) aboard NASA’s Terra and Aqua satellites. And mineral dust (MD) from The Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2 (MERRA-2), both of them during 2000–2020. Results show the largest snow albedo reductions were observed at 39.39%, 32.1%, and 30.58% in SNC, SNSM, and NDR, respectively. Meanwhile, a multiple correlation showed that the glaciers where MD contributed the most to SA behavior were 35.4%, 24%, and 21.4% in NDS, NDC, and NDR. Results also display an increasing trend of dust deposition on Colombian tropical glaciers between 2.81 × 10−3 µg·m−2·year−1 and 6.58 × 10−3 µg·m−2·year−1. The results may help recognize the influence of Saharan dust on reducing snow albedo in tropical glaciers in Colombia. The findings from this study also have the potential to be utilized as input for both regional and global climate models. This could enhance our comprehension of how tropical glaciers are impacted by climate change.
Quantitative 3D Characterization of Pore Structure in Malan Loess from Different Regions of the Loess Plateau
Authors: Nan Yalin , Wei Ya-Ni , Liu Kui , Cao Yanbo
Published: September 2023

The micro pores in loess show regional variation in structure on the Loess Plateau and greatly influence the physical properties and macro behaviors of loess. In this study, the 3D microstructures of Malan loess from Lanzhou (LZ), Qingyang (QY), Hengshan (HS) and Jingyang (JY) were established based on μ-CT scanning, and the corresponding microstructural parameters were compared and analyzed quantitatively. The results indicate that the LZ and HS loess both show overall homogeneous structures with dominant inter-particle pores, while the QY and JY loess have more intra-aggregate and constricted pores. Overall, the LZ loess has the largest pore size, followed by the JY loess, QY loess and HS loess, which is consistent with the throat sizes of the four loess samples. The average coordination numbers (CNs) of the LZ and HS loess are lower than those of the QY and JY loess, while the throat lengths of the former two loess are larger than those of the latter two loess. Analysis of the correlation between the micropore parameters and macro behaviors of the loess suggests that the void ratio is the precondition for loess collapse, but it shows weak relevance to collapsibility; meanwhile, the size of pores contributing to the major pore space presents a strong positive correlation. The throat length representing the pore structure is more closely related to loess permeability compared with the void ratio, average CN and throat size.