bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Status of Remote Sensing for Studying the Impacts of Hurricanes on Mangrove Forests in the Coastal United States
Authors: Dutta Roy Abhilash , Karpowicz Daria Agnieszka , Hendy Ian , Rog Stefanie M. , Watt Michael S. , Reef Ruth , Broadbent Eben North , Asbridge Emma F. , Gebrie Amare , Ali Tarig , Mohan Midhun
Published: September 2024

Hurricane incidents have become increasingly frequent along the coastal United States and have had a negative impact on the mangrove forests and their ecosystem services across the southeastern region. Mangroves play a key role in providing coastal protection during hurricanes by attenuating storm surges and reducing erosion. However, their resilience is being increasingly compromised due to climate change through sea level rises and the greater intensity of storms. This article examines the role of remote sensing tools in studying the impacts of hurricanes on mangrove forests in the coastal United States. Our results show that various remote sensing tools including satellite imagery, Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been used to detect mangrove damage, monitor their recovery and analyze their 3D structural changes. Landsat 8 OLI (14%) has been particularly useful in long-term assessments, followed by Landsat 5 TM (9%) and NASA G-LiHT LiDAR (8%). Random forest (24%) and linear regression (24%) models were the most common modeling techniques, with the former being the most frequently used method for classifying satellite images. Some studies have shown significant mangrove canopy loss after major hurricanes, and damage was seen to vary spatially based on factors such as proximity to oceans, elevation and canopy structure, with taller mangroves typically experiencing greater damage. Recovery rates after hurricane-induced damage also vary, as some areas were seen to show rapid regrowth within months while others remained impacted after many years. The current challenges include capturing fine-scale changes owing to the dearth of remote sensing data with high temporal and spatial resolution. This review provides insights into the current remote sensing applications used in hurricane-prone mangrove habitats and is intended to guide future research directions, inform coastal management strategies and support conservation efforts.
“Chickens in the Slaughterhouse” Police-Inflicted Trauma and Mental Health Consequences for an Urban African American LGBTQI+ Community
Authors: Jauk-Ajamie Daniela , Peralta Robert L. , Michael Courtney
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we discuss qualitative findings drawn from a larger community-engaged project in a predominantly Black Midwestern city. Data collection for the project, which focused on the effects of policing on the city’s African American community, was carried out in collaboration with Black community organizations and an independent police oversight board. Using an intersectional queer politics lens, we present findings from a thematic analysis of field observations that focused on the city’s LGBTQI+ community. Major themes that emerged include the social context of Black LGBTQI+ oppression, the criminalization of the Black LGBTQI+ body, and mental health impact of policing experiences. Overall, we found that transgender and gender non-conforming experiences with police were particularly harmful. We conclude with insights into the strategies of resilience and resistance used by the community to navigate the impact police work has on their lived experience. Policy implications of our findings and the importance of queer politics to enable Black LGBTQI+ populations to access services and thrive, rather than survive are also addressed.
Enhanced Early Detection of Cadmium Stress in Rice: Introducing a Novel Spectral Index Based on an Enhanced GAMI-Net Model
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhang Zhao , Zhou Shangran , Liu Xingwang , Li Feng , Mao Lei
Published: September 2024

Soil cadmium contamination poses a significant threat to global food security and human health, making the timely and accurate diagnosis of cadmium stress in rice crucial for effective pollution control and agricultural management. However, during the early growth stages of rice, particularly the tillering stage, the spectral response to cadmium stress is subtle, rendering traditional remote sensing methods inadequate. This study aims to develop an efficient early diagnosis index, the Cadmium Early Stress Index (CESI), for rapid and accurate detection of cadmium stress in rice at a regional scale. By integrating field surveys with Sentinel-2 satellite data, the study extracts multi-angle spectral features and employs an enhanced Generalized Additive Model Neural Network (E-GAMI-Net) for analysis. E-GAMI-Net analysis identified key indicators for early diagnosis, including log-transformed reflectance at 941 nm (R941_log), Optimized Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (OSAVI), and the interaction between Red Edge Amplitude and Chlorophyll content. Based on these findings, CESI was constructed, demonstrating superior diagnostic performance (R2 = 0.77, RMSE = 0.09 mg/kg) compared to existing methods. CESI also exhibited high stability under noise interference, with only a 5.6% reduction in R2 under 15% noise. In regional-scale remote sensing applications, CESI successfully generated cadmium stress distribution maps, identifying previously undetected moderate stress areas. CESI’s high accuracy (R2 = 0.6073, RMSE = 0.3021) and stability make it a promising tool for large-scale cadmium stress monitoring and precision agriculture management.
Prototype Pultrusion of Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate Plastic Bottles into Filament for 3D Eco-Printing: Education for a Sustainable Development Project
Authors: Morales Méndez Ginés , del Cerro Pérez Alicia , del Cerro Velázquez Francisco
Published: September 2024

In light of mounting environmental concerns surrounding the overuse and accumulation of plastic waste, the United Nations (UN) has turned its attention towards sustainable materials and the Circular Economy (CE). Polymer recycling technologies have the potential to reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprint of plastic waste production, thereby contributing to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In response to this challenge, students enrolled in the fourth year of secondary education, specializing in technology, during the 2021–2022 academic year, developed an open-source prototype that automatically transforms polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles into recycled rPET filament for 3D printing using an automated pultrusion model. In this working group, one of the students identified as gifted developed the pultrusion prototype using challenge-based learning and the project method (PM), which is now known as project-based learning. The resulting prototype has the capacity to transform PET bottles into rPET filament with mechanical properties comparable to those of commercial filaments, thereby enabling the manufacture of a wide range of products through 3D printing. It is not the intention of this work to create a commercial product. Rather, it is designed to promote social and sustainable entrepreneurship, CE, and the values of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) through the recycling of polymers by means of 3D printing production. In addition, it seeks to develop the key competences for sustainability described in the methodological framework established by UNESCO in 2017.
Strategic Adoption of Genetically Modified Crops in Lebanon: A Comprehensive Cost–Benefit Analysis and Implementation Framework
Authors: Roberts Richard J. , Naimy Viviane
Published: September 2024

This paper investigates the economic feasibility and benefits of introducing genetically modified (GM) crops into Lebanon’s agricultural sector. The methodology combines a rigorous cost–benefit analysis with qualitative insights from local farmers and agricultural scientists to ensure relevance to Lebanon’s unique agricultural context. Through this study, we identified tomatoes and potatoes as the most suitable crops for GM implementation. The findings indicate that GM tomatoes could increase net income by USD 10,000 per hectare in the short term and USD 50,000 over five years. These economic benefits are primarily driven by higher yields and reduced pesticide costs. This study emphasizes the necessity of a holistic approach, including financial support, infrastructure development, farmer education, and robust market access strategies, to maximize the potential of GM crops. This research provides a strategic framework for leveraging GM technology to address Lebanon’s agricultural challenges, promoting sustainable practices, enhancing food security, and ensuring long-term economic stability. By integrating local context and stakeholder perspectives, this paper offers a unique and actionable pathway for successful GM crop implementation in Lebanon.
Enhancing Sustainability in Solution Projects through Social CRM: An Expansion of the Self-Efficacy Value Adoption Model
Authors: Sartono Yuli , Astuti Endang Siti , Wilopo Wilopo , Noerman Teuku
Published: September 2024

This study applies the Self-Efficacy Value Adoption Model (SVAM), which views users of technology as customers, to explore the influence of Perceived Environmental Value (PEV) and the cultural dimension of Uncertainty Avoidance (UA) on the intention to adopt Social Customer Relationship Management (Social CRM). The research addresses the challenge of improving organizational sustainability by adopting Social CRM for managing solution projects that integrate products and services. The objectives are to evaluate the impact of self-efficacy (SE) on PEV and adoption intentions and to assess how UA moderates this relationship. This study sampled 205 professionals from the Indonesian energy industry who have been using CRM for 24 years. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with AMOS version 26. The results show that SE has a significant positive effect on PEV and adoption intention, with UA moderating this effect (path coefficient of 0.602, p ≤ 0.001). PEV was found to strongly influence the intention to adopt Social CRM, and PEV fully mediated the relationship between SE and adoption intention. This research highlights that the type and level of technological knowledge influence perceptions of emotional and social value, and that combining the SVAM with PEV and UA enhances solution projects that align with business and sustainability goals.
The Effect of Energy Rights Trading Pilot Policies on Urban Carbon Emissions: Empirical Analysis Based on PSM-DID
Authors: Zhang Baosheng , Wan Kai
Published: September 2024

The Energy Rights Trading Pilot Policy represents an incentive-based environmental policy, implemented under the auspices of the “dual control” targets, with the objective of promoting energy conservation and emission reduction. However, given the lack of consensus among researchers regarding the relationship between environmental regulation and carbon emissions, this provides new space for further investigation and analysis. This study aims to contribute to this ongoing discourse by examining the mechanisms through which China’s Energy Rights Trading Pilot Policy affects carbon emissions. This paper employs a sample of 285 Chinese cities from 2010 to 2020 and utilizes the difference-in-differences method to evaluate the impact and mechanisms. The findings demonstrate that the energy rights trading pilot system has a considerable impact on reducing urban carbon emissions. Further analysis indicates that the pilot system curbs the increase in urban carbon emissions through the promotion of green technology innovation and industrial structural upgrades. The results of the heterogeneity analysis indicate that the pilot system is more effective in reducing carbon emissions in non-resource-based cities, smaller cities, and in those where chief officials are in a period of critical promotion. This paper makes a marginal contribution to the research on the impact mechanism of market-based environmental regulation policies on urban carbon emissions by taking China’s regulation policies as an example. It also provides empirical support for the goal realization of the incentive-oriented environmental regulation approach in developed countries, as represented by TWC.
Does a Logging Ban Policy Increase Socio-Ecological Resilience? A Case Study of Key State-Owned Forest Areas in Northeast China
Authors: Luo Shuyao , Qiao Dan , Han Xiao , Song Boyao , Wan Zhihan , Li Hongxun
Published: September 2024

The resilience of forests refers to the ability of a forest to withstand disturbance and maintain its function and control. After an early phase of historical logging to support economic development, changes in the socio-ecological resilience of key state-owned forest areas in Northeastern China (later collectively referred to as Northeastern state-owned forests) after implementing a total logging ban policy remain unknown. In this study, the Northeast state-owned forest area was selected as the study area, and based on the panel data from 2008 to 2021, the indicator system at both social and ecological levels was established, and the socio-ecological resilience of the Northeast state-owned forest area was assessed using comprehensive weights and set-pair analysis. The results show that (1) the logging ban policy effectively improves socio-ecological resilience, which reached the highest point of the whole measurement period in 2018. (2) The socio-ecological system has a certain self-adjustment and resilience but has shown a decreasing trend in recent years. By exploring the causes behind the results, we can provide guidance and suggestions for the further implementation of the logging ban policy and, at the same time, provide some lessons for other developing countries with similar problems.
Metal Analysis of Leachate from the Organic Fraction of Urban Solid Waste (MSW) from the Municipality of Belém/PA
Authors: Mathews Josiane Coutinho , da Costa Assunção Fernanda Paula , Pereira Diogo Oliveira , da Silva Jéssica Cristina Conte , Almeida Fernando Felipe Soares , Almeida Aline Christian Pimentel , Mendonça Neyson Martins , de Sousa Brandão Isaque Wilkson , Menezes André Oliveira , Borges Luiz Eduardo Pizarro , Ferreira Jorge Fernando Hungria , Pereira José Almir Rodrigues , Machado Nélio Teixeira
Published: September 2024

In this study, the analysis of metals in the solubilized extract of the organic fraction of Urban Solid Waste (MSW) from the municipality of Belém do Pará was carried out. The waste used in this research was collected in residential areas, through door-to-door collection, with the points and neighborhoods served in the municipality of Belém determined by the sectorization of these locations, with family income as the main parameter. The MSW was collected and transported to the segregation area. Gravimetric analysis of MSW was carried out and the selected organic and paper fractions were subjected to drying, crushing and sieving pre-treatment. Next, the solubilized extract of the organic fraction of MSW was obtained following the method set out in NBR nº 10.006/2004 of the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards. The values obtained were compared with CONAMA Resolutions n° 357/2005, 396/2008 and 430/2011, in addition to being compared with results of bibliographical research. The results indicated that these wastes do not comply with environmental and health regulations. Although a highly significant association was found between chromium and boron through Pearson’s correlation, the remaining strong correlations between other elements did not reach statistical significance. Furthermore, a similarity was observed in the solubilization conditions of these wastes with those found in landfill leachate.
Stakeholder-Based Optimal Indicators for Urban Sustainability Assessment in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Case Study from the City of Moundou in Chad
Authors: Haou Ernest , Allarané Ndonaye , Aholou Cyprien Coffi , Bondoro Ouya
Published: September 2024

Over the last two decades, scientific studies have increasingly highlighted the vulnerability of cities to global changes, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where climate phenomena and urbanization are intensifying. These realities necessitate a reassessment of current urban management models in order to reaffirm the central role of cities in promoting sustainability. In this context, establishing a robust scientific foundation for evaluating the transition processes of cities towards sustainability is essential. This article presents a methodology developed to select and validate indicators, taking into account local issues and the needs expressed by stakeholders. The research was conducted using a mixed-methods approach, which included a literature review, consultations with populations from five study districts, analysis of the indicator needs of development stakeholders, adoption of two methods, and validation of the indicators by a group of experts. The outcome of this research is a set of 20 indicators organized into five dimensions: environmental, social, economic, built environment, and cultural. The analysis of the proportional distribution of these indicators across dimensions reveals a notable predominance of the social dimension, which accounts for 35% of the indicators, including key indicators such as access to potable water, electricity, education, and healthcare services, inter alia. The environmental and built environment dimensions each comprise 20% of the indicators, encompassing indicators such as the preservation of natural resources, waste management, land use management, and flood management, among others. The economic and cultural dimensions represent 15% and 10% of the selected indicators, respectively. These data indicate that achieving sustainable urban development within the context of this study requires a focused effort on enhancing the performance of these indicators, with substantial efforts needed in the social domain. It is of paramount importance to incorporate these indicators into the decision-making processes related to urban development planning in Moundou and other cities in the region, as they provide valuable scientific insights crucial to the pursuit of sustainability.
Relationships between Tree Species Diversity and Aboveground Biomass Are Mediated by Site-Dependent Factors in Northeastern China Natural Reserves on a Small Spatial Scale
Authors: Yang Leilei , Zhang Junhui , Wang Jiahui , Han Shijie , Guo Zhongling , Fan Chunnan , Yu Jinghua
Published: September 2024

Biodiversity loss has accelerated over decades and probably exerted adverse impacts on ecosystems. As a key forest ecosystem function, tree productivity and its relationship with the change in species diversity are a hotspot in ecology research. However, the changing patterns of the relationships between these two variables across ecosystems with different environmental conditions and the underlying mechanisms are not well understood but key to make environmental context-specific strategies for forest ecosystem conservation and management. Here, we examined changes in relationship (RDI-AGB) between the tree species diversity index (DI) and aboveground biomass (AGB) across temperate forest ecosystems with different environmental contexts on a small spatial (plot) scale as well as clarified the driving mechanisms using ground-based data from 3 natural reserves in northeastern China, surveying 22,139 trees across 77 species and 185 plots. We found substantial changes in RDI-AGB across natural reserves with different environmental conditions on a small spatial scale. These changes were probably modulated by site-specific factors. A positive RDI-AGB was attributed to positive impacts of local climate conditions (i.e., mean annual temperature and potential evapotranspiration) and stand age on both DI and AGB, which was observed in the Changbai Mountains Natural Reserve. In contrast, a negative RDI-AGB was likely due to opposite directions in the effects of the site-dependent factors (elevation, mean annual precipitation, vapor pressure deficit, and seasonality of temperature) on DI and AGB, appearing in the Honghuaerji Natural Reserve. In addition, complex impacts of site factors on DI and AGB leading to no obvious RDI-AGB was observed in the Shengshan Natural Reserve. Our results highlight the importance of site-dependent factors in modulating species diversity–productivity relationships and the need to use site-specific strategies in management and conservation for forest-dominated natural reserves and other forest ecosystems with heterogeneous environmental conditions.
Balancing Environmental Safety and Economic Feasibility: A Review of Soil Fluorine Management Strategies in South Korea
Authors: Ji Chang Hwan , Lee Soon Hong , Bae Gi Seong , Kim Hyun Woo
Published: September 2024

Soil naturally contains fluorine, but concerns arise when its levels or bioavailability are increased by human activities or specific compounds. South Korea faces challenges in regulating soil fluorine pollution despite implementing stricter total fluorine standards (e.g., 400 mg/kg for residential areas) than many developed countries (e.g., 4000 mg/kg for all land uses in Japan). Moreover, a recent national soil survey in Korea revealed widespread exceedance (15.2% of samples) of the Soil Worrisome Level, even in areas with naturally low background levels of fluoride. This highlights the limitations of regulations based solely on total fluorine content. This review explores the global landscape of soil fluorine management strategies and examines potential solutions that reconcile environmental protection with economic concerns. We recommend a shift towards regulating specific and hazardous fluorine compounds rather than total content and prioritizing remediation efforts based on assessments of bioavailable fluorine. This approach may help Korea establish a more effective and sustainable strategy for managing soil fluorine pollution.
Statistics Using Neural Networks in the Context of Sustainable Development Goal 9.5
Authors: Okulich-Kazarin Valery
Published: September 2024

In recent years neural networks have been used to achieve all 17 SDGs. This paper is directly related to SDG 9. In particular, the application of neural networks in statistics indicates the creation and development of a scientific research infrastructure (including encouraging innovation, SDG 9.5). Also, this paper shows the possibility of the mass practical application of neural networks for statistics in the context of sustainable development (with the possibilit of increasing the number of researchers, SDG 9.5). The paper aims to test the following two hypotheses in the context of SDG 9.5: (1) The rapid growth of scientific interest in neural networks will lead to a decrease in the number of scientific publications in statistics. (2) It is possible to use neural networks for calculating statistical indicators. Bibliometric analysis, mathematical modeling, the calculation of statistical indicators using the new prompt and Excel table z-statistics were used. The scientific novelty lies in the new knowledge obtained by the author for the first time. This study integrates advanced technologies (neural networks) and a traditional field (statistics), which is a significant contribution to innovation and infrastructure development (Indicator 9.5.1). The practical value lies in the ease of the mass use of neural networks for statistical data processing of more than 100,000 units, which is related to Indicator 9.5.2. Thus, this paper represents an important contribution to the stimulation of innovation, thereby building up technological potential and leading to a significant increase in the number of researchers (SDG 9.5).
The Influence of Energy Consumption and the Environmental Impact of Electronic Components on the Structures of Mobile Robots Used in Logistics
Authors: Popescu Constantin-Adrian , Olteanu Severus-Constantin , Ifrim Ana-Maria , Petcu Catalin , Silvestru Catalin Ionut , Ilie Daniela-Mariana
Published: September 2024

Industrial development has implicitly led to the development of new systems that increase the ability to provide services and products in real time. Autonomous mobile robots are considered some of the most important tools that can help both industry and society. These robots offer a certain autonomy that makes them indispensable in industrial activities. However, some elements of these robots are not yet very well outlined, such as their construction, their lifetime and energy consumption, and the environmental impact of their activity. Within the context of European regulations (here, we focus on the Green Deal and the growth in greenhouse gas emissions), any industrial activity must be analyzed and optimized so that it is efficient and does not significantly impact the environment. The added value of this paper is its examination of the activities carried out by mobile robots and the impact of their electronic components on the environment. The proposed analysis employs, as a central point, an analysis of mobile robots from the point of view of their electronic components and the impact of their activity on the environment in terms of energy consumption, as evaluated by calculating the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). The way in which the activity of a robot impacts the environment was established throughout the economic flow, as well as by providing possible methods of reducing this impact by optimizing the robot’s activity. The environmental impact of a mobile robot, in regard to its electronic components, will also be analyzed when the period of operation is completed.
Parametric Characterization of Nonlinear Optical Susceptibilities in Four-Wave Mixing: Solvent and Molecular Structure Effects
Authors: Paz José L. , Garrido-Schaeffer Alberto , Loroño Marcos A. , González-Paz Lenin , Márquez Edgar , Mora José R. , Alvarado Ysaias J.
Published: September 2024

We study the nonlinear absorptive and dispersive optical properties of molecular systems immersed in a thermal reservoir interacting with a four-wave mixing (FWM) signal. Residual spin-orbit Hamiltonians are considered in order to take into account the internal structure of the molecule. As system parameters in the dissipation processes, transverse and longitudinal relaxation times are considered for stochastic solute–solvent interaction processes. The intramolecular coupling effects on the optical responses are studied using a molecule model consisting of two coupled harmonic curves of electronic energies with displaced minima in nuclear energies and positions. In this study, the complete frequency space is considered through the pump–probe detuning, without restricting the derivations to only maximums of population oscillations. This approach opens the possibility of studying the behavior of optical responses, which is very useful in experimental design. Our results indicate the sensitivity of the optical responses to parameters of the molecular structure as well as to those derived from the photonic process of FWM signal generation.
On the Spectral Redundancy of Pineapple Graphs
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Merajuddin Siddique , Pirzada Shariefuddin , Shang Yilun
Published: September 2024

In this article, we explore the concept of spectral redundancy within the class of pineapple graphs, denoted as P(α,β). These graphs are constructed by attaching β pendent edges to a single vertex of a complete graph Kα. A connected graph G earns the title of being spectrally non-redundant if the spectral radii of its connected induced subgraphs are all distinct. Spectral redundancy, on the other hand, arises when there is a repetition of spectral radii among the connected induced subgraphs within G. Our study analyzes the adjacency spectrum of P(α,β), identifying distinct eigenvalues such as 0, −1, along with other positive and negative eigenvalues. Our investigation focuses on determining the spectral redundancy within this class of graphs, shedding light on their unique structural properties and implications for graph theory. Understanding spectral redundancy in these graphs is crucial for applications in network design, where distinct spectral radii can indicate different connectivity patterns and resilience features.
Efficient Graph Algorithms in Securing Communication Networks
Authors: Bokhary Syed Ahtsham Ul Haq , Kharal Athar , Samman Fathia M. Al , Dalam Mhassen. E. E. , Gargouri Ameni
Published: September 2024

This paper presents three novel encryption and decryption schemes based on graph theory that aim to improve security and error resistance in communication networks. The novelty of this work lies in the application of complete bipartite graphs in two of the schemes and the Cartesian product of graphs in the third, representing a unique approach to cryptographic algorithm development. Unlike traditional cryptographic methods, these graph-based schemes use structural properties of graphs to achieve robust encryption, providing greater resistance to attacks and corruption. Each scheme is illustrated with detailed examples that show how the algorithms can be successfully implemented. The algorithms are written in standard mathematical notation, making them adaptable for machine implementation and scalable for real-world use. The schemes are also rigorously analyzed and compared in terms of their temporal and spatial complexities, using Big O notation. This comprehensive evaluation focuses on their effectiveness, providing valuable insights into their potential for secure communication in modern networks.
Solid-Binding Peptide for Enhancing Biocompatibility of Metallic Biomaterials
Authors: Migita Satoshi
Published: September 2024

Solid-binding peptides (SBPs) are a powerful tool for surface modification of metallic biomaterials which improve the biocompatibility and functionality of medical devices. This review provides a comprehensive overview of SBP technology for metallic biomaterials. We begin with a focus on phage display technology, the cornerstone method for selecting and developing SBPs. The application of SBPs to major metallic biomaterials, including titanium, stainless steel, and cobalt–chromium alloys, is then extensively discussed with specific examples and outcomes. We also address the advantages of SBPs compared to traditional surface modification methods, such as their high specificity and biocompatibility. Furthermore, this review explores current challenges in the field, such as the integration of computational approaches for rational SBP design. To create multifunctional surfaces, the combination of SBPs with other advanced technologies is also considered. This review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the current state and future potential of SBP technology in enhancing metallic biomaterials for medical application.
Optimal Refund and Ordering Decisions for Fresh Produce E-Commerce Platform: A Comparative Analysis of Refund Policies
Authors: Xiong Shouyao , Zheng Danqiong
Published: September 2024

Different refund policies offered by e-commerce platforms provide diverse options for consumers and are crucial for enhancing after-sales service. This study constructs a refund and ordering decision model based on three typical refund policies: both basic refund and refund guarantee option (‘Policy I’), basic refund only (‘Policy II’), and refund guarantee option only (‘Policy III’). We examine scenarios where demand is influenced by price, refund policies, and stochastic factors, and returns are affected by refund policies, aiming to determine the optimal refund and ordering decisions for fresh produce e-commerce platforms. Our results indicate that, under the same parameters, the platform achieves the maximum order quantity and highest expected profit with Policy I. The return rate under Policy I is always higher than under Policy III, but not consistently higher than under Policy II. Additionally, as the sensitivity of demand to the refund policy increases, both the order quantity and basic refund price rise, while the refund guarantee option price decreases. Conversely, as the sensitivity of returns to the refund policy increases, the opposite occurs. Although market demand uncertainty does not impact the basic refund or refund guarantee option prices, the platform must increase order quantities to manage market volatility.
Evaluation Research on Resilience of Coal-to-Liquids Industrial Chain and Supply Chain
Authors: Wu Anbo , Li Pingfan , Sun Linhui , Su Chang , Wang Xinping
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study is to enhance the resilience of the coal-to-liquids (CTL) industrial chain and supply chain to withstand increasing shock pressures. There is an urgent need to improve the resilience of the industrial chain and supply chain. This paper identifies 21 resilience-influencing factors from 4 perspectives: absorption capacity, adaptability, recovery capacity, and self-learning capacity; it then constructs an evaluation indicator system. The Interval Type 2 Fuzzy-Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory-Analytic Network Process (IT2F-DEMATEL-ANP) method is adopted to determine the weights of the indicator system, and a resilience evaluation is performed based on the Interval Type 2 Fuzzy-Prospect Theory-Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (IT2F-PT-TOPSIS) method. Furthermore, in the case of the CTL industrial chain and supply chain of China Shenhua Energy Group Ningxia Coal Industry Co., Ltd. (CENC) (Ningxia, China), this study ranks the resilience level from 2018 to 2022 to identify the factors that have contributed to a reduction in resilience and to implement measures to enhance the resilience of the CTL industrial chain and supply chain. The results show that the level of the CTL industrial chain and supply chain resilience was lowest in 2020, while it was highest in 2021. Factors such as the degree of domestication of key technologies, the rationality of the CTL industry layout, and the stability of supply and demand chains are identified as significant determinants of resilience levels. This points the way to enhancing the resilience of the CTL industry and supply chain.
Toxic Effects of Cadmium Exposure on Hematological and Plasma Biochemical Parameters in Fish: A Review
Authors: Yu Young-Bin , Lee Ju-Wook , Jo A-Hyun , Choi Young Jae , Choi Cheol Young , Kang Ju-Chan , Kim Jun-Hwan
Published: September 2024

Cadmium (Cd) is a non-essential trace element that poses significant toxic effects on fish. This review focuses on hematological and plasma biochemical parameters as key indicators of fish health under Cd exposure. Hematological parameters, such as red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, and hematocrit (Ht), were selected for their critical role in oxygen transport and their sensitivity to Cd-induced disruptions, which often result in anemia and impaired oxygen delivery to tissues. Mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) provide further insights into erythropoiesis and hemoglobin synthesis, both of which are essential for assessing Cd toxicity. Plasma biochemical parameters, including calcium, magnesium, glucose, cholesterol, total protein, and liver enzymes such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), are crucial for understanding ionic balance, metabolic regulation, and organ function, especially in fish exposed to Cd. These biomarkers offer a comprehensive view of the physiological stress and organ damage caused by Cd toxicity. This review synthesizes literature findings on the toxic effects of Cd on these parameters. It also discusses potential mitigation strategies, including dietary supplementation with antioxidants and trace elements, to counteract the harmful effects of Cd exposure.
Long Terminal Repeats of Gammaretroviruses Retain Stable Expression after Integration Retargeting
Authors: Miklík Dalibor , Slavková Martina , Kučerová Dana , Mekadim Chahrazed , Mrázek Jakub , Hejnar Jiří
Published: September 2024

Retroviruses integrate into the genomes of infected host cells to form proviruses, a genetic platform for stable viral gene expression. Epigenetic silencing can, however, hamper proviral transcriptional activity. As gammaretroviruses (γRVs) preferentially integrate into active promoter and enhancer sites, the high transcriptional activity of γRVs can be attributed to this integration preference. In addition, long terminal repeats (LTRs) of some γRVs were shown to act as potent promoters by themselves. Here, we investigate the capacity of different γRV LTRs to drive stable expression within a non-preferred epigenomic environment in the context of diverse retroviral vectors. We demonstrate that different γRV LTRs are either rapidly silenced or remain active for long periods of time with a predominantly active proviral population under normal and retargeted integration. As an alternative to the established γRV systems, the feline leukemia virus and koala retrovirus LTRs are able to drive stable, albeit intensity-diverse, transgene expression. Overall, we show that despite the occurrence of rapid silencing events, most γRV LTRs can drive stable expression outside of their preferred chromatin landscape after retrovirus integrations.
Enhanced Systemic and Mucosal Immune Responses to Haemophilus parasuis by Intranasal Administration of Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid Microspheres
Authors: Lei Tianyu , Dai Tingting , Zhuang Liyun , Liu Yiting , Li Xiaohua , Huang Cuiqin , Zheng Xintian
Published: September 2024

Swine Glasser’s disease, instigated by Haemophilus parasuis (H. parasuis), is a significant bacterial infection that causes substantial economic losses in pig farming operations. The role of mucosal immunity is pivotal in defending against H. parasuis. This study focused on the construction of PLGA microspheres that encapsulate the outer membrane protein OMP16 from H. parasuis (PLGA-OMP16) and evaluated their immunological effectiveness in a mouse model. After being intranasally immunized twice, the PLGA-OMP16 microspheres effectively induced IgAs in saliva and nasal and lung fluids. The PLGA-OMP16 microspheres also significantly increased the number of anti H. parasuis IgGs in serum. Furthermore, the PLGA-OMP16 microspheres triggered elevated levels of IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-γ. The mice vaccinated with PLGA-OMP16 showed a significant reduction in H. parasuis burden in the spleen and lungs following bacterial challenge. These results indicate that intranasal immunization using PLGA microspheres is a promising adjuvant delivery system for vaccines targeting H. parasuis.
The “What” and “How” of Pantomime Actions
Authors: MacNeil Raymond R. , Enns James T.
Published: September 2024

Pantomimes are human actions that simulate ideas, objects, and events, commonly used in conversation, performance art, and gesture-based interfaces for computing and controlling robots. Yet, their underlying neurocognitive mechanisms are not well understood. In this review, we examine pantomimes through two parallel lines of research: (1) the two visual systems (TVS) framework for visually guided action, and (2) the neuropsychological literature on limb apraxia. Historically, the TVS framework has considered pantomime actions as expressions of conscious perceptual processing in the ventral stream, but an emerging view is that they are jointly influenced by ventral and dorsal stream processing. Within the apraxia literature, pantomimes were historically viewed as learned motor schemas, but there is growing recognition that they include creative and improvised actions. Both literatures now recognize that pantomimes are often created spontaneously, sometimes drawing on memory and always requiring online cognitive control. By highlighting this convergence of ideas, we aim to encourage greater collaboration across these two research areas, in an effort to better understand these uniquely human behaviors.
A Method for the Assessment of Underground Renewable Reserves for Large Regions: Its Importance in Water Supply Regulation
Authors: de Ojeda Joaquín Sanz , Sanz-Pérez Eugenio , Mosquera-Feijóo Juan Carlos
Published: September 2024

The growing interest in groundwater as a sustainable resource for water supply regulation is noteworthy. Just as surface reservoirs in many countries are primarily designed to manage seasonal fluctuations throughout the year, aquifers possess significant reserves, making them particularly well suited for interannual regulation, especially during droughts. In the face of climate change, this form of regulation may increasingly highlight the importance of groundwater resources. For instance, the temporary use of groundwater reserves through intensive pumping in arid or semiarid regions, compensating for seasonal or interannual variations in natural water recharge, can significantly affect aquifers. The exploitation of groundwater reserves may lead to adverse effects over time, eventually being deemed overexploitation and subject to environmental or even legal issues. This work assesses the interannual regulation capacity of aquifers and estimates the groundwater renewal rates and periods for aquifers according to river basins. We first present the mathematical background and development of a method to assess the hydrodynamic volumes (renewable groundwater reserves) in large regions. This method builds on prior knowledge of the distribution functions of spring water contributions based on their discharge and for lithological groups exhibiting similar hydrogeological behavior. Furthermore, it establishes a relationship between spring discharges and hydrodynamic volumes, facilitating the integration of the latter based on discharge. Although proposed for Spain, the method can also be implemented to other regions where data are available.
Application of Experimental Design-Based Predictive Models and Optimization in Additive Manufacturing – a Review
Authors: Drégelyi-Kiss Ágota
Published: September 2024

Experiments play a crucial role in additive manufacturing to help researchers develop new materials with enhanced properties or in several types of process optimization tasks. Design of Experiments (DoE) is a valuable tool that is efficient, statistically rigorous and offers a systematic approach to experimentation. In this article, several types of DoE methods such as one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT), full and fractional factorial designs, Taguchi, response surface methodology (RSM) and descriptive screening designs (DSD) are briefly described in addition to some single- and multi-objective optimization methods. The optimization methods apply utility theory (UT), Taguchi and desirability optimization as well as some non-conventional, artificial intelligence-based multi-objective optimization methods illustrated by examples from the field of additive manufacturing. In the second part, the potential factors and response variables are reviewed during the investigation of the seven main categories of additive manufacturing, namely binder jetting (BJT), directed energy deposition (DED), material extrusion (MEX), material jetting (MJT), powder bed fusion (PBF), sheet lamination (SHL) and vat photopolymerization (VPP).
Assessement of the Surface Roughness of Cellulose Ionogel Membranes Using Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Bakonyi Péter
Published: September 2024

Nowadays, ionogels are widely researched materials as they can be easily designed and varied as well as have a wide range of applications. Being composed of an ionic liquid and cellulose, they are biodegradable with properties dictated by the ionic liquid such as high conductivity and ion transport capabilities. Sometimes they are used in the aqueous phase, making their analysis very difficult due to the conditions surrounding them. The porosity and surface roughness of membranes are important properties. Atomic force microscopy is capable of avoiding the aforementioned difficulties and providing such essential data while providing images of the examined surface as well. The purpose of this work is to examine this novel material and how specific data can be recorded by atomic force microscopy.
The Prevalence of Various Subtypes of Mutation in the BRAF Gene in Patients with Metastatic Melanoma in Russia Based on Own Research
Authors:   N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Orlova K.V. , Demidov L.V.
Published: September 2024

A mutation in the BRAF gene is key in skin melanoma. Its prevalence varies depending on the region of residence and other clinical and morphological characteristics. The determination of a mutation in the BRAF gene in patients with metastatic melanoma is a primary molecular genetic study that may influence the choice of drug therapy. As clinical studies have shown, it is important not only to determine the presence or absence of a mutation in the BRAF gene, but also to determine the genotype of the BRAF mutation, which has clinical and practical significance. In this article, we reviewed the results of our own research, assessed the prevalence of mutations in the BRAF gene and genotypes, and also correlated with the age of patients and the localization of melanoma.
Liver Cancer: the State of the Problem and Modern Possibilities of Antitumor Drug Therapy
Authors:   A.I. Kryzhanovsky Krasnoyarsk Regional Clinical Oncology Dispensary, Zukov R.A. , Safontsev I.P. , Permyakova K.D. , Ponomarenko D.M. , Yukalchuk D.Yu. ,   V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University,   Irkutsk State Medical University,   Irkutsk State Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education,   Irkutsk Regional Oncology Center
Published: September 2024

The development and implementation of new methods for the diagnosis and treatment of malignant neoplasms, improving their effectiveness and safety are one of the most urgent tasks of modern oncology. Currently, antitumor drug therapy makes a great contribution to the treatment of this pathology, and one of the most striking examples of this approach is the treatment of liver cancer. The article presents epidemiological data on the prevalence, indicators of the state of oncological care for liver cancer in Russia and the Siberian Federal District, as well as modern approaches to antitumor drug therapy of this disease.
Co-Ni-сульфоарсенидная минерализация золоторудного месторождения Дегдекан (Северо-Восток России)
Authors:   North-East Interdisciplinary Scientific Research Institute n. a. N. A. Shilo, FEB RAS, Magadan, Savva N. E. , Volkov A. V. ,   Institute of Geology of Ore Deposits, Petrography, Mineralogy, and Geochemistry, RAS, Moscow, Sidorova N. V. ,   Institute of Geology of Ore Deposits, Petrography, Mineralogy, and Geochemistry, RAS, Moscow
Published: September 2024

The results of mineralogical and geochemical studies of a metasomatically altered dolerite dyke, identified on the southeastern flank (Verny site) of the Degdekan gold deposit, are considered. Higher concentrations of Ni, Co, Cr, Pt, and Pd, as well as the widespread development of Cr-Vmuscovite (fuchsite) and nest clusters of Co-Ni-sulfoarsenide - gersdorffite, have been established in metasomatites. Based on the studies performed, the transportation channels and sources of Ni, Co, Pt and Pd in the ores and host rocks of the deposit have been assumed.
Напряженные состояния Нагаевского активного разлома (Северное Приохотье)
Authors:   North-East Interdisciplinary Scientific Research Institute n. a. N. A. Shilo, FEB RAS, Magadan, Krylov I. A. , Smirnov V. N. ,   North-East Interdisciplinary Scientific Research Institute n. a. N. A. Shilo, FEB RAS, Magadan
Published: September 2024

New data on the tectonic stress field in the active fault running along the northern shore of Nagayev Bay have been obtained. It has been established that the stress field responsible for the formation of the fault fissure structure belongs to the shear type, but the presence of the normal fault component is also noted. The compression axis has a northeast orientation (azimuth 50°, dip angle 12°), while the extension axis is oriented to the northwest (azimuth 133°, dip angle 29°). Based on the obtained results, the kinematics of the Nagayev Bay fault can be defined as a strike-slip fault.