bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Printable Biomaterials for Use in Neural Tissue Engineering: An In Vitro Characterization and In Vivo Biocompatibility Assessment
Authors: Etayo-Escanilla Miguel , Campillo Noelia , Ávila-Fernández Paula , Baena José Manuel , Chato-Astrain Jesús , Campos Fernando , Sánchez-Porras David , García-García Óscar Darío , Carriel Víctor
Published: May 2024

Nervous system traumatic injuries are prevalent in our society, with a significant socioeconomic impact. Due to the highly complex structure of the neural tissue, the treatment of these injuries is still a challenge. Recently, 3D printing has emerged as a promising alternative for producing biomimetic scaffolds, which can lead to the restoration of neural tissue function. The objective of this work was to compare different biomaterials for generating 3D-printed scaffolds for use in neural tissue engineering. For this purpose, four thermoplastic biomaterials, ((polylactic acid) (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), Filaflex (FF) (assessed here for the first time for biomedical purposes), and Flexdym (FD)) and gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogel were subjected to printability and mechanical tests, in vitro cell–biomaterial interaction analyses, and in vivo biocompatibility assessment. The thermoplastics showed superior printing results in terms of resolution and shape fidelity, whereas FD and GelMA revealed great viscoelastic properties. GelMA demonstrated a greater cell viability index after 7 days of in vitro cell culture. Moreover, all groups displayed connective tissue encapsulation, with some inflammatory cells around the scaffolds after 10 days of in vivo implantation. Future studies will determine the usefulness and in vivo therapeutic efficacy of novel neural substitutes based on the use of these 3D-printed scaffolds.
Brucine Sulfate, a Novel Bacteriostatic Agent in 3D Printed Bone Scaffold Systems
Authors: Li Jinying , Hu Shi , Feng Pei , Xia Yang , Pei Zihan , Tian Jiaxuan , Jiang Kun , Liu Liang , Cai Xiong , Wu Ping
Published: May 2024

Bacterial infection is a common complication in bone defect surgery, in which infection by clinically resistant bacteria has been a challenge for the medical community. Given this emerging problem, the discovery of novel natural-type inhibitors of drug-resistant bacteria has become imperative. Brucine, present in the traditional Chinese herb Strychnine semen, is reported to exert analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Brucine’s clinical application was limited because of its water solubility. We extracted high-purity BS by employing reflux extraction and crystallization, greatly improved its solubility, and evaluated its antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. Importantly, we found that BS inhibited the drug-resistant strains significantly better than standard strains and achieved sterilization by disrupting the bacterial cell wall. Considering the safety concerns associated with the narrow therapeutic window of BS, a 3D BS-PLLA/PGA bone scaffold system was constructed with SLS technology and tested for its performance, bacteriostatic behaviors, and biocompatibility. The results have shown that the drug-loaded bone scaffolds had not only long-term, slow-controlled release with good cytocompatibility but also demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity in antimicrobial testing. The above results indicated that BS may be a potential drug candidate for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections and that scaffolds with enhanced antibacterial activity and mechanical properties may have potential applications in bone tissue engineering.
Researching on the Effect of Input Parameters on the Quality and Manufacturability of 3D-Printed Cellular Samples from Nylon 12 CF in Synergy with Testing Their Behavior in Bending
Authors: Koroľ Martin , Török Jozef , Monka Peter Pavol , Baron Petr , Mrugalska Beata , Monkova Katarina
Published: May 2024

The study of cellular structures and their properties represents big potential for their future applications in real practice. The article aims to study the effect of input parameters on the quality and manufacturability of cellular samples 3D-printed from Nylon 12 CF in synergy with testing their bending behavior. Three types of structures (Schwarz Diamond, Shoen Gyroid, and Schwarz Primitive) were selected for investigation that were made via the fused deposition modeling technique. As part of the research focused on the settings of input parameters in terms of the quality and manufacturability of the samples, input parameters such as volume fraction, temperature of the working space, filament feeding method and positioning of the sample on the printing pad were specified for the combination of the used material and 3D printer. During the experimental investigation of the bending properties of the samples, a three-point bending test was performed. The dependences of force on deflection were mathematically described and the amount of absorbed energy and ductility were evaluated. The results show that among the investigated structures, the Schwarz Diamond structure appears to be the most suitable for bending stress applications.
A “2-in-1” Bioanalytical System Based on Nanocomposite Conductive Polymers for Early Detection of Surface Water Pollution
Authors: Kharkova Anna S. , Medvedeva Anastasia S. , Kuznetsova Lyubov S. , Gertsen Maria M. , Kolesov Vladimir V. , Arlyapov Vyacheslav A. , Reshetilov Anatoly N.
Published: May 2024

This work proposes an approach to the formation of receptor elements for the rapid diagnosis of the state of surface waters according to two indicators: the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) index and toxicity. Associations among microorganisms based on the bacteria P. yeei and yeast S. cerevisiae, as well as associations of the yeasts O. polymorpha and B. adeninivorans, were formed to evaluate these indicators, respectively. The use of nanocomposite electrically conductive materials based on carbon nanotubes, biocompatible natural polymers—chitosan and bovine serum albumin cross-linked with ferrocenecarboxaldehyde, neutral red, safranin, and phenosafranin—has made it possible to expand the analytical capabilities of receptor systems. Redox polymers were studied by IR spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy, the contents of electroactive components were determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy, and electrochemical properties were studied by electrochemical impedance and cyclic voltammetry methods. Based on the proposed kinetic approach to modeling individual stages of bioelectrochemical processes, the chitosan–neutral red/CNT composite was chosen to immobilize the yeast association between O. polymorpha (ks = 370 ± 20 L/g × s) and B. adeninivorans (320 ± 30 L/g × s), and a bovine serum albumin (BSA)–neutral composite was chosen to immobilize the association between the yeast S. cerevisiae (ks = 130 ± 10 L/g × s) and the bacteria P. yeei red/CNT (170 ± 30 L/g × s). After optimizing the composition of the receptor systems, it was shown that the use of nanocomposite materials together with associations among microorganisms makes it possible to determine BOD with high sensitivity (with a lower limit of 0.6 mg/dm3) and detect the presence of a wide range of toxicants of both organic and inorganic origin. Both receptor elements were tested on water samples, showing a high correlation between the results of biosensor analysis of BOD and toxicity and the results of standard analytical methods. The results obtained show broad prospects for creating sensitive and portable bioelectrochemical sensors for the early warning of environmentally hazardous situations based on associations among microorganisms and nanocomposite materials.
Size and Shape Selective Classification of Nanoparticles
Authors: Damm Cornelia , Long Danny , Walter Johannes , Peukert Wolfgang
Published: May 2024

As nanoparticle syntheses on a large scale usually yield products with broad size and shape distributions, the properties of nanoparticle-based products need to be tuned after synthesis by narrowing the size and shape distributions or via the removal of undesired fractions. The development of property-selective classification processes requires a universal framework for the quantitative evaluation of multi-dimensional particle fractionation processes. This framework must be applicable to any property and any particle classification process. We extended the well-known one-dimensional methodology commonly used for describing particle size distributions and fractionation processes to the multi-dimensional case to account for the higher complexity of the property distribution and separation functions. In particular, multi-dimensional lognormal distributions are introduced and applied to diameter and length distributions of gold nanorods. The fractionation of nanorods via centrifugation and by orthogonal centrifugal and electric forces is modeled. Moreover, we demonstrate that analytical ultracentrifugation with a multi-wavelength detector (MWL-AUC) is a fast and very accurate method for the measurement of two-dimensional particle size distributions in suspension. The MWL-AUC method is widely applicable to any class of nanoparticles with size-, shape- or composition-dependent optical properties. In addition, we obtained distributions of the lateral diameter and the number of layers of molybdenum disulfide nanosheets via stepwise centrifugation and spectroscopic evaluation of the size fractions.
Study on the Mechanism of Carbon Dioxide Miscible Fracturing Fluid Huff and Puff in Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Xu Shijing , Wang Changquan , Gao Bin , Wang Tiezheng
Published: May 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) miscible fracturing huff-and-puff technology now plays a pivotal role in enhancing crude oil recovery rates, particularly in reservoirs with challenging physical properties, strong water sensitivity, high injection pressure, and complex water-injection dynamics. In this study, the oil-increasing mechanism and huff-and-puff effect of CO2 miscible fracturing fluid are investigated through a comprehensive experimental approach. Specifically, experiments on PVT gas injection expansion, minimum miscible pressure, and CO2 miscible fracturing fluid huff and puff are conducted on the G fault block reservoir of the J Oilfield. The experimental findings demonstrate that injecting CO2 into reservoirs leads to an expansion in oil volume, a reduction in viscosity, and an increase in saturation pressure. Crude oil extraction is further enhanced by the addition of solubilizers and viscosity reducers. The use of solubilizers not only increases oil recovery rates but also reduces the minimum miscible pressure required for effective CO2 dispersion. We also found that shut-in times, permeability, and the huff-and-puff method used all have considerable impacts on huff-and-puff recovery rates. This study offers valuable technical insights, supporting the application of CO2 miscible fracturing huff-and-puff technology to enhance oil recovery rates in low-permeability reservoirs.
High-Performance Porous pSi/Ag@C Anode for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Kefan , Li Xiang , Yuan Liang , Han Zewen , Li Mengkui , Ji Rui , Zhan Yixin , Tang Kai
Published: May 2024

Silicon represents one of the most attractive anode materials in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its highest theoretical specific capacity. Thus, there is a most urgent need to prepare Si-based nano materials in a very efficient way and develop some reasonable approaches for their modification in order to resolve the short-falls of Si anodes, which include both low conductivity and huge volume changes during intercalation of lithium ions. In this work, the kerf loss silicon (KL Si) from the photovoltaic industry has been used as an inexpensive Si source for the preparation of a porous silicon/silver/carbon composite (pSi/Ag@C) as an anode material. Porous silicon was embedded with Ag particles via the Ag-catalyzed chemical etching process, providing additional space to accommodate the large volume expansion of silicon. After carbon coating from polymerization of tannic acid on the surface of pSi/Ag, a high-speed conductive network over the surface of silicon was built and contributed to enhancing the electrochemical performance of the anode. The pSi/Ag@C electrode discharge capacity maintained at a stable value of 665.3 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles under 0.5 A g−1 and exhibited good rate performance. Therefore, this study recommends that the method is very promising for producing a silicon anode material for LIBs from KL Si.
The Brazilian Hymnological Melting Pot: Investigating Ethnoracial Discourses in the Compilation of the Lutheran Hymnal Livro de Canto (2017)
Authors: Berwig Silva Fernando
Published: May 2024

In 1926, a New York Times article described the cultural and ethnic flows in south Brazil as a “Melting Pot”. The report predicted that German Brazilians, tied to their ethnoracial origin, would soon be Brazilianized. The study of congregational song practices offers insight into the relationship between migration, race, culture, and ethnicity. Moreover, investigating Brazilian Lutheran singing practices helps us understand how the New York Times’ prediction unfolded on the ground. This paper examines the Brazilian Lutheran hymnal Livro de Canto, published in 2017, and displays how Brazil’s ethnoracial diversity is manifested and negotiated in the Lutheran context, both musically and theologically. By interviewing members of the hymnal committee and investigating how they dealt with Brazil’s ethnoraciality in the context of the hymnal compilation, this paper demonstrates ways denominations and churchgoers negotiate theological, cultural, musical, and ethnoracial identities through congregational singing. More importantly, it showcases how Brazilian Lutheran church music practices inform broader social conversations around racism, nationalism, Blackness, and Brazilianness.
Cost-Effectiveness in Alternative Treatment Options for Pancreatic Pseudocysts
Authors: Boyanov Nikola , Milinich Nikol , Shtereva Katina , Madzharova Katerina , Tufkova Stoilka , Penkova-Radicheva Mariana , Radicheva Daniela , Shopov Neno
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives: Pancreatic pseudocysts often arise as complications of pancreatitis and present unique challenges in clinical management, encompassing considerations for both technical aspects and financial implications. Before the advancements of invasive gastroenterology, pancreatic pseudocysts have been drained surgically for many years. Nowadays, we have less invasive techniques with higher efficiency and lower mortality rates, however, they remain cost-challenging for most countries. Materials and Methods: We present four patients (two males and two females) with pancreatic pseudocysts who underwent endoscopic ultrasound-guided transgastric drainage using plastic stents accompanied by a standard lavage protocol using a nasocystic catheter. Results: All four patients had successful outcomes, and a follow-up at 6 months revealed no traces of the pseudocysts or any significant long-term complications. One acute complication (arterial bleeding) and one late complication (stent migration) were observed. As the study aimed to present a cheaper option for draining pancreatic pseudocysts, we investigated and compared costs for the materials we utilized and those associated with lumen-apposing metal stents. Upon compiling the data, a notable advantage was evident in favour of our method. Conclusions: While EUS-guided drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts using lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMSs) represents a high-end strategy for treating pancreatic pseudocysts, our method demonstrates better cost-effectiveness without compromising efficacy.
AIMED-Net: An Enhancing Infrared Small Target Detection Net in UAVs with Multi-Layer Feature Enhancement for Edge Computing
Authors: Pan Lehao , Liu Tong , Cheng Jianghua , Cheng Bang , Cai Yahui
Published: May 2024

In the context of small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), infrared imaging faces challenges such as low quality, difficulty in detecting small targets, high false alarm rates, and computational resource constraints. To address these issues, we introduce AIMED-Net, an enhancing infrared small target detection net in UAVs with multi-layer feature enhancement for edge computing. Initially, the network encompasses a multi-layer feature enhancement architecture for infrared small targets, including a generative adversarial-based shallow-feature enhancement network and a detection-oriented deep-feature enhancement network. Specifically, an infrared image-feature enhancement method is proposed for the shallow-feature enhancement network, employing multi-scale enhancement to bolster target detection performance. Furthermore, within the YOLOv7 framework, we have developed an improved object detection network integrating multiple feature enhancement techniques, optimized for infrared targets and edge computing conditions. This design not only reduces the model’s complexity but also enhances the network’s robustness and accuracy in identifying small targets. Experimental results obtained from the HIT-UAV public dataset indicate that, compared to YOLOv7s, our method achieves a 2.5% increase in F1 score, a 6.1% rise in AP for detecting OtherVehicle targets, and a 2.6% improvement in mAP across all categories, alongside a 15.2% reduction in inference time on edge devices. Compared to existing state-of-the-art approaches, our method strikes a balance between detection efficiency and accuracy, presenting a practical solution for deployment in aerial edge computing scenarios.
Biomass Burning Aerosol Observations and Transport over Northern and Central Argentina: A Case Study
Authors: Mulena Gabriela Celeste , Asmi Eija Maria , Ruiz Juan José , Pallotta Juan Vicente , Jin Yoshitaka
Published: May 2024

The characteristics of South American biomass burning (BB) aerosols transported over northern and central Argentina were investigated from July to December 2019. This period was chosen due to the high aerosol optical depth values found in the region and because simultaneously intensive biomass burning took place over the Amazon. More specifically, a combination of remote sensing observations with simulated air parcel back trajectories was used to link the optical and physical properties of three BB aerosol events that affected Pilar Observatory (PO, Argentina, 31°41′S, 63°53′W, 338 m above sea level), with low-level atmospheric circulation patterns and with types of vegetation burned in specific fire regions. The lidar observations at the PO site were used for the first time to characterize the vertical extent and structure of BB aerosol plumes as well as their connection with the planetary boundary layer, and dust particles. Based mainly on the air-parcel trajectories, a local transport regime and a long transport regime were identified. We found that in all the BB aerosol event cases studied in this paper, light-absorbing fine-mode aerosols were detected, resulting mainly from a mixture of aging smoke and dust particles. In the remote transport regime, the main sources of the BB aerosols reaching PO were associated with Amazonian rainforest wildfires. These aerosols were transported into northern and central Argentina within a strong low-level jet circulation. During the local transport regime, the BB aerosols were linked with closer fires related to tropical forests, cropland, grassland, and scrub/shrubland vegetation types in southeastern South America. Moreover, aerosols carried by the remote transport regime were associated with a high aerosol loading and enhanced aging and relatively smaller particle sizes, while aerosols associated with the local transport pattern were consistently less affected by the aging effect and showed larger sizes and low aerosol loading.
Improving the Estimation of Structural Parameters of a Mixed Conifer–Broadleaf Forest Using Structural, Textural, and Spectral Metrics Derived from Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Red Green Blue (RGB) Imagery
Authors: Karthigesu Jeyavanan , Owari Toshiaki , Tsuyuki Satoshi , Hiroshima Takuya
Published: May 2024

Forest structural parameters are crucial for assessing ecological functions and forest quality. To improve the accuracy of estimating these parameters, various approaches based on remote sensing platforms have been employed. Although remote sensing yields high prediction accuracy in uniform, even-aged, simply structured forests, it struggles in complex structures, where accurately predicting forest structural parameters remains a significant challenge. Recent advancements in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry have opened new avenues for the accurate estimation of forest structural parameters. However, many studies have relied on a limited set of remote sensing metrics, despite the fact that selecting appropriate metrics as powerful explanatory variables and applying diverse models are essential for achieving high estimation accuracy. In this study, high-resolution RGB imagery from DJI Matrice 300 real-time kinematics was utilized to estimate forest structural parameters in a mixed conifer–broadleaf forest at the University of Tokyo Hokkaido Forest (Hokkaido, Japan). Structural and textual metrics were extracted from canopy height models, and spectral metrics were extracted from orthomosaics. Using random forest and multiple linear regression models, we achieved relatively high estimation accuracy for dominant tree height, mean tree diameter at breast height, basal area, mean stand volume, stem density, and broadleaf ratio. Including a large number of explanatory variables proved advantageous in this complex forest, as its structure is influenced by numerous factors. Our results will aid foresters in predicting forest structural parameters using UAV photogrammetry, thereby contributing to sustainable forest management.
On-Chip Impedance Spectroscopy of Malaria-Infected Red Blood Cells
Authors: Panklang Nitipong , Techaumnat Boonchai , Tanthanuch Nutthaphong , Chotivanich Kesinee , Horprathum Mati , Nakano Michihiko
Published: May 2024

Malaria is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly in developing countries. The development of accurate and efficient methods for the detection of malaria-infected cells is crucial for effective disease management and control. This paper presents the electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) of normal and malaria-infected red blood cells. An EIS microfluidic device, comprising a microchannel and a pair of coplanar electrodes, was fabricated for single-cell measurements in a continuous manner. Based on the EIS results, the aim of this work is to discriminate Plasmodium falciparum-infected red blood cells from the normal ones. Different from typical impedance spectroscopy, our measurement was performed for the cells in a low-conductivity medium in a frequency range between 50 kHz and 800 kHz. Numerical simulation was utilized to study the suitability parameters of the microchannel and electrodes for the EIS experiment over the measurement frequencies. The measurement results have shown that by using the low-conductivity medium, we could focus on the change in the conductance caused by the presence of a cell in the sensing electrode gap. The results indicated a distinct frequency spectrum of the conductance between the normal and infected red blood cells, which can be further used for the detection of the disease.
Vegetation Loss Measurements for Single Alley Trees in Millimeter-Wave Bands
Authors: Cichoń Krzysztof , Nikiforuk Maciej , Kliks Adrian
Published: May 2024

As fixed wireless access (FWA) is still envisioned as a reasonable way to achieve communications links, foliage attenuation becomes an important wireless channel impairment in the millimeter-wave bandwidth. Foliage is modeled in the radiative transfer equation as a medium of random scatterers. However, other phenomena in the wireless channel may also occur. In this work, vegetation attenuation measurements are presented for a single tree alley for 26–32 GHz. The results show that vegetation loss increases significantly after the second tree in the alley. Measurement-based foliage losses are compared with model-based, and new tuning parameters are proposed for models.
Design and Characterisation of a Read-Out System for Wireless Monitoring of a Novel Implantable Sensor for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Monitoring
Authors: Silva Nuno P. , Elahi Adnan , Dunne Eoghan , O’Halloran Martin , Amin Bilal
Published: May 2024

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a dilation of the aorta artery larger than its normal diameter (>3 cm). Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is a minimally invasive treatment option that involves the placement of a graft in the aneurysmal portion of the aorta artery. This treatment requires multiple follow-ups with medical imaging, which is expensive, time-consuming, and resource-demanding for healthcare systems. An alternative solution is the use of wireless implantable sensors (WIMSs) to monitor the growth of the aneurysm. A WIMS capable of monitoring aneurysm size longitudinally could serve as an alternative monitoring approach for post-EVAR patients. This study has developed and characterised a three-coil inductive read-out system to detect variations in the resonance frequency of the novel Z-shaped WIMS implanted within the AAA sac. Specifically, the spacing between the transmitter and the repeater inductors was optimised to maximise the detection of the sensor by the transmitter inductor. Moreover, an experimental evaluation was also performed for different orientations of the transmitter coil with reference to the WIMS. Finally, the FDA-approved material nitinol was used to develop the WIMS, the transmitter, and repeater inductors as a proof of concept for further studies. The findings of the characterisation from the air medium suggest that the read-out system can detect the WIMS up to 5 cm, regardless of the orientation of the Z-shape WIMS, with the detection range increasing as the orientation approaches 0°. This study provides sufficient evidence that the proposed WIMS and the read-out system can be used for AAA expansion over time.
Polyphenols from Sage Leaves (Salvia officinalis L.): Environmentally Friendly Extraction under High Hydrostatic Pressure and Application as a Corrosion Inhibitor for Tinplate
Authors: Dent Maja , Fuchs-Godec Regina , Pedisić Sandra , Grbin Dorotea , Dragović-Uzelac Verica , Ježek Damir , Bosiljkov Tomislav
Published: May 2024

Due to the diversity of organic molecular structures present in sage extract, sage extract is a promising potential source of a cheap and effective biodegradable green corrosion inhibitor for tinplate in 3% NaCl solution, which was evaluated in this study. HHP proved to be a new and emerging technology for the useful extraction of polyphenols from sage as a functional ingredient from natural sources. Analysis of variance among all tested independent factors (ethanol concentration, HHP parameters and temperature) revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in total polyphenol content as well as for rosmarinic acid as the major phenolic compound in sage extract, while extraction time had no effect (p ˃ 0.05). The optimum HHP conditions (600 MPa, 30% ethanol, 60 °C and 5 min) gave a maximum extraction yield of total polyphenols of 3811.84 mg/100 g. Sage-leaf extracts were found to be a mixture of phenolic acids, namely rosmarinic and salvianolic acid K, epicatechin and luteolin-7-O-glucuronide glycoside. The corrosion results show that the sage extract at a concentration of 0.6 g/L in 3% NaCl is an effective corrosion inhibitor (93%), forming a passivation layer of sage extract consisting of organic compounds such as polyphenols on the surface of tinplate.
Centering Black Women’s Voices: Illuminating Systemic Racism in Maternal Healthcare Experiences
Authors: Brailey Carla , Slatton Brittany C.
Published: May 2024

The racial disparity in Black maternal healthcare outcomes in the U.S. reflects the devastating impact of systemic racism embedded within the healthcare system. This study addresses Black maternal health by centering Black women’s perspectives to illuminate how systemic barriers, racism, and unequal care manifest in their maternal health experiences. We conducted six focus group discussions with 27 Black women in Harris County, Texas, an area with an alarmingly high Black maternal mortality rate. The analysis revealed three main themes: (1) institutional barriers to equitable maternal care, (2) inequitable clinical care and provider–patient interactions, and (3) navigating experiences of everyday interpersonal racism. The women’s narratives provide insights into how systemic factors such as racism and unjust policies compromise the pursuit of optimal maternal care. By centering their situated knowledge, we can understand and develop solutions that emerge directly from the lived realities of this community.
Hopeful, but Worried for the Future: An Analysis of the Lived Consequences of Colonisation as Narrated by Older South Sámi in Norway
Authors: Mentsen Ness Tove , Munkejord Mai Camilla
Published: May 2024

Various forms of colonisation and discrimination processes are unfortunately common to Indigenous Peoples worldwide. In this article, the focus is the lived consequences of colonisation in the Norwegian part of Sápmi (the Sámi traditional lands), where systematic state-imposed colonisation officially ended decades ago. Thus, based on a thematic analysis of qualitative in-depth interviews with 12 South Sámi aged 67–84, the aim was to examine how stories about hopes and worries for the future can shed light on how colonisation is experienced among older South Sámi today. The voices of these participants are important, as they can be considered triply muted, due to (a) ageism and (b) continued yet unconscious colonising practices against the Sámi in general and (c) against the South Sámi people in particular, a minority within the minority. Inspired by decolonising perspectives, this article reveals that older South Sámi are worried for the future, not only due to memories from the past but also their experiences with persisting colonial practices such as the ongoing enlargement of windmill parks and cabin areas in the midst of the winter pastures of the South Sámi reindeer herders. Hopefully, the time has come to finally put an end to colonial practices and take collective responsibility for creating a more just future for both coloniser and colonised. Similarly to the participants in this study, the report from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission also stresses issues such as loss of language, experience of racism, and reindeer husbandry being under pressure. This report may therefore be used as an important tool to ameliorate the conditions of the Sámi people if taken into consideration in the time to come.
X-ray Fluorescence Core Scanning for High-Resolution Geochemical Characterisation of Soils
Authors: Kabiri Shayan , Holden Nick M. , Flood Rory P. , Turner Jonathan N. , O’Rourke Sharon M.
Published: May 2024

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) core scanners are commonly used for fine-scale geochemical analysis in sediment studies, but data are semi-quantitative and require calibration to convert geochemical element counts to concentrations. Application of XRF core scanning in soil science remains largely untapped. This study employed an ITRAX core scanner to scan grassland soil cores and developed a novel calibration method based on a chemometric approach to characterise soil geochemistry. As soil samples are collected based on depth sampling, this study investigated whether higher resolution element concentrations could be inferred from lower resolution reference samples and if regression models from multiple cores could apply to a new core at the same resolution. Reference concentrations were obtained for all cores at 10 cm intervals, with validation conducted at 1 cm for a single core. Two calibration curve types were proposed: one based on the single core’s 10 cm data to validate references at 1 cm intervals; and another using all cores, with each core serving as a test item after exclusion from the training set. Various preprocessing measures and feature selection techniques were tested. Results showed successful calibration for elements Ca, P, Zn, Sr, and S, with high R2 values of 0.94, 0.93, 0.93, 0.92 and 0.91, respectively. The study presents a novel method for calibrating XRF core scanning element counts, demonstrating its potential for high-resolution soil analysis.
Sustaining Success in B2B Partnerships: Exploring Intention to Continue the Relationship
Authors: Tedja Budiarto , Musadieq Mochammad Al , Yulianto Edy , Kusumawati Andriani
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to analyze the influence of service quality, relationship marketing, perceived value, and satisfaction on intention to continue relationships in the business-to-business context of lubricant companies in Indonesia. We utilized the theoretical perspectives of the Social Exchange Theory and Expectation–Confirmation Theory. The research sample comprised 135 distributors of lubricant companies in Indonesia selected through saturated sampling. Data collection employed a survey method, and data were analyzed using PLS-SEM. The results indicate that service quality and relational marketing significantly affect perceived value while perceived value significantly influences satisfaction. However, the direct influence of perceived value on the intention to continue relationships was not significant. Conversely, satisfaction was found to have a significant positive influence on the intention to continue relationships. These findings underscore the importance of integrating sustainability principles into service quality, relationship marketing, and satisfaction strategies to foster long-term business relationships in the B2B context within the lubricant industry in Indonesia.
Factor Analysis of Sustainable Livelihood Potential Development for Poverty Alleviation Using Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Ngamwong Nitjakaln , Darakorn Na Ayuthaya Smitti , Kiattisin Supaporn
Published: May 2024

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focus on reducing inequality while promoting economic growth, environmental protection, and access to critical services. The latest Multidimensional Poverty Index report shows that Thailand’s Multidimensional Poverty Index has decreased. This study analyzes factors that significantly affect the increase in sustainable livelihood potential development based on 37 indicators determined from a relevant questionnaire. The sample size was 17,536 households from 3612 villages and 193 districts, covering 20 provinces of Thailand, which is a region with a low Human Achievement Index (HAI). The data are analyzed and processed using structural equation modeling (SEM) statistical methods in order to confirm the factor structure and indicate the appropriateness of the empirical data according to the required criteria. It is found that sustainable living potential development includes 5 dimensions based on 37 indicators in Thailand, with natural capital being the most important, followed by human capital, financial capital, social capital, and physical capital. This research is expected to help community leaders or local agencies to prioritize projects or activities that improve the quality of life of people in each locality, including evaluating policies and various interventions, thus enabling the explanation of phenomena and statistical measurements.
Predictive Modeling and Validation of Carbon Emissions from China’s Coastal Construction Industry: A BO-XGBoost Ensemble Approach
Authors: Hou Yunfei , Liu Shouwei
Published: May 2024

The extensive carbon emissions produced throughout the life cycle of buildings have significant impacts on environmental sustainability. Addressing the Carbon Emissions from China’s Construction Industry (CECI), this study uses panel data from seven coastal areas (2005–2020) and the Bayesian Optimization Extreme Gradient Boosting (BO-XGBoost) model to accurately predict carbon emissions. Initially, the carbon emission coefficient method is utilized to calculate the CECI. Subsequently, adopting the concept of a fixed-effects model to transform provincial differences into influencing factors, we employ a method combining Spearman rank correlation coefficients to filter out these influencing factors. Finally, the performance of the prediction model is validated using the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), R-squared (R2) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). The results indicate that the total CECI for the seven provinces and cities increased from 3.1 billion tons in 2005 to 17.2 billion tons in 2020, with Shandong Province having the highest CECI and Hainan Province having the lowest. The total population, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and floor space of the buildings completed passed the significance test, among a total of eight factors. These factors can be considered explanatory variables for the CECI prediction model. The BO-XGBoost algorithm demonstrates outstanding predictive performance, achieving an R2 of 0.91. The proposed model enables potential decisions to quantitatively target the prominent factors contributing to the CECI. Its application can guide policymakers and decision makers toward implementing effective strategies for reducing carbon emissions, thereby fostering sustainable development in the construction industry.
The Role of Traditional Knowledge Due to Climate Change Adaptation and Economic Wellbeing in Island Communities: A Case Study of Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Samsuddin Nurul Syamimi , Salleh Hayatul Safrah , Talaat Wan Izatul Asma Wan , Saputra Jumadil
Published: May 2024

Traditional knowledge pertaining to Islands is crucial in combating climate change. Many scholars have examined the usage of traditional knowledge amongst Island communities. However, studies regarding traditional knowledge from the stance of Island dwellers on monitoring and responding to climate change in Terengganu, Malaysia, are scarce. Therefore, this study assessed the mediating impact of adaptive capacity on the relationship between traditional knowledge use (i.e., cultural beliefs, cultural practises, and personality traits) and the economic wellbeing of Island residents in Terengganu in light of climate change. This cross-sectional study deployed the survey questionnaire method by involving 354 Redang and Perhentian Island communities selected via purposive sampling. The two Islands were selected due to their size and topographical features. The collected data were analysed via structural equation modelling–partial least square (SEM-PLS) by using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. The findings revealed that two traditional knowledge dimensions (i.e., cultural belief and cultural practice) were correlated in a significantly positive manner with the economic wellbeing of the two Island communities due to climate change, while personality traits did not exert any impact. Next, adaptive capacity mediated the link between the personality traits and the economic wellbeing of the communities in the two Islands. In conclusion, this research work succeeded in examining the use of traditional knowledge and the mediating impact of adaptive capacity on the correlation between traditional knowledge and economic wellbeing of the communities dwelling in Redang and Perhentian Islands in view of climate change.
An Evaluation Model of Urban Green Space Based on Residents’ Physical Activity
Authors: Dong Tian , Feng Churan , Yue Bangguo , Zhang Zhengdong
Published: May 2024

Urban green spaces (UGSs) possess a status in improving public health; thus, it is crucial to emphasize the evaluation of UGSs in terms of residents’ physical activity (PA). This study utilizes the semantic segmentation method and Geographic Information System tools to quantify the key values of UGSs, including aesthetic and attractions, natural world experience, nature conservation, encouraging physical activity, cultural value, and social value, which are set as the evaluation indexes to investigate their impacts on residents’ PA based on the six UGSs in Changsha city, Hunan Province, China. The PA-oriented UGS evaluation model is realized through the index optimal combination weights obtained by the Improved Combination Weighting Method of Game Theory, combining the subjective and objective weights from the Uncertainty Analytic Hierarchy Process method and Entropy Weight Method, respectively. By collecting and analyzing the exercise data of residents, we can accurately assess the level of residents’ PA and frequency within various UGSs. The proposed model herein has a positive significance for evaluating the value of public green space in residents’ PA in Changsha city and provides a reference for the construction of an urban green space evaluation model from multiple perspectives in the future.
Multi-Scale Analysis of Spatial and Temporal Evolution of Carbon Emissions in Yangtze River Economic Belt and Study of Decoupling Effects
Authors: Hu Hang , Wang Lei , Yang Mingchen
Published: May 2024

An in-depth, longitudinal examination of carbon emissions and decoupling within the Yangtze River Economic Belt, supplemented by a dynamic assessment of its evolutional trajectory, provides a scientifically grounded framework and pragmatic value for the drafting of regional carbon emission mitigation strategies. Using the Yangtze River Economic Belt as a context, this study formulates a carbon emission model spanning provincial, city, and county levels. The model serves to uncover the spatiotemporal characteristics of carbon emissions within the Yangtze River Economic Belt from a multi-scalar vantage point. The Tapio decoupling model is then invoked to examine the extent and nature of decoupling between economic advancement and carbon emissions across these disparate scales. The outcomes divulge the following: (1) At the provincial echelon, the progression of carbon emissions born from energy consumption within the Yangtze River Economic Zone presents an escalating then stabilizing trend line. The carbon emissions growth rate transitions from a swift ascension of 8.44 percent initially, subsequently tapering to a moderate increment of 0.42 percent at the period’s culmination. The trajectory of carbon decoupling at the provincial scale tends to be generally propitious. (2) At the municipal scale, the overall carbon emission level shows a gradual upward trend, and then gradually forms a pattern of centripetal aggregation and peripheral diffusion. The decoupling status during the study period is mainly weak and strong decoupling, with the number of weak decoupling showing a fluctuating change in increasing and then decreasing, while the strong decoupling shows a slow and orderly growth trend, and is mainly distributed in most of the municipalities in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai. (3) At the county scale, centripetal aggregation and peripheral diffusion were already present at the beginning of the study period, followed by the gradual expansion and formation of several carbon emission centers of different sizes. The temporal evolution of county-level decoupling is more significant, with weak and strong decoupling dominating the county-scale decoupling during the study period, especially in the upper and middle reaches of the Yangtze River Economic Belt, but the overall trend shows signs of gradual decoupling.
Green Bonds Drive Environmental Performance: Evidences from China
Authors: Luo Xiaona , Lyu Chan
Published: May 2024

Faced with the urgent challenge of global warming, green bonds play an important role in promoting economic transformation and improving environmental quality by financing environmentally friendly projects. However, the actual effects of green bonds, especially their impact on corporate environmental performance, and the mechanisms behind it, still need to be studied and validated. Based on the time-varying difference-in-differences (DID) model, this study uses 85 Chinese A-share listed companies that have issued green bonds from 2013 to 2022, to study the impact of green bond issuance on corporate environmental performance and the potential mechanisms. The results show that green bonds issuance effectively promotes the improvement of corporate environmental performance; this promotion is more significant for labor-intensive enterprises, larger enterprises, and enterprises with more government subsidies. In terms of the influencing mechanism, R&D investment and green innovation play partial mediating roles, media attention and analyst attention play positive moderating roles. This study further validates and complements the signal theory of green bonds and makes relevant suggestions for the development of green bonds in China.
Prioritizing Environmental Attributes to Enhance Residents’ Satisfaction in Post-Industrial Neighborhoods: An Application of Machine Learning-Augmented Asymmetric Impact-Performance Analysis
Authors: Ji Xian , Shang Furui , Liu Chang , Kang Qinggong , Wang Rui , Dou Chenxi
Published: May 2024

Post-industrial neighborhoods are valued for their historical and cultural significance but often contend with challenges such as physical deterioration, social instability, and cultural decay, which diminish residents’ satisfaction. Leveraging urban renewal as a catalyst, it is essential to boost residents’ satisfaction by enhancing the environmental quality of these areas. This study, drawing on data from Shenyang, China, utilizes the combined strengths of gradient boosting decision trees (GBDTs) and asymmetric impact-performance analysis (AIPA) to systematically identify and prioritize the built-environment attributes that significantly enhance residents’ satisfaction. Our analysis identifies twelve key attributes, strategically prioritized based on their asymmetric impacts on satisfaction and current performance levels. Heritage maintenance, property management, activities, and heritage publicity are marked as requiring immediate improvement, with heritage maintenance identified as the most urgent. Other attributes are categorized based on their potential to enhance satisfaction or their lack of immediate improvement needs, enabling targeted and effective urban revitalization strategies. This research equips urban planners and policymakers with critical insights, supporting informed decisions that markedly improve the quality of life in these distinctive urban settings.