bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Speed Dynamic Camera Analysis of the Hematite Floc–Bubble Mineralization Process
Authors: Niu Fusheng , Chen Yuying , Zhang Jinxia , Chang Zhenjia
Published: July 2023

The most efficient method for recovering microfine-grained hematite ore is flocculation flotation. Because the flocculation–bubble mineralization process in flocculation flotation has yet to be well investigated, a series of experimental investigations on hematite flocculation–bubble were conducted to better understand the hematite flocculation–bubble interaction process. The results show that as the flocculant size increases, the sliding time of the flocculant to the bottom of the bubble shortens, and the change in the instantaneous dynamic velocity is slower when the diameter of the fixed bead is 544.52 μm, which is more favorable to flocculant adhesion on the bubble surface. When the bubble diameter is 544.52 μm and the floc diameter is 39.65 μm, the shortest time is 49.5 ms, and the maximum value of instantaneous velocity is 28.67 μm·ms−1. According to the force analysis of the floc on the bubble surface, when the particle size of the floc is 39.65 μm and the bubble diameter is 544.52 μm, the desorption force is 4.99 × 10−3 mN·m−1 larger, and the adhesion force is 7.08 × 10−4 mN·m−1 smaller. The smaller Bond constant Bo′ is 0.14. In that moment, the flocs in the sodium solution are very stable.
Temporal Trends in Food Insecurity (Hunger) among School-Going Adolescents from 31 Countries from Africa, Asia, and the Americas
Authors: Smith Lee , López Sánchez Guillermo F. , Tully Mark A. , Jacob Louis , Kostev Karel , Oh Hans , Butler Laurie , Barnett Yvonne , Shin Jae Il , Koyanagi Ai
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Temporal trends of food insecurity among adolescents are largely unknown. Therefore, we aimed to examine this trend among school-going adolescents aged 12–15 years from 31 countries in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. (2) Methods: Data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey 2003–2017 were analyzed in 193,388 students [mean (SD) age: 13.7 (1.0) years; 49.0% boys]. The prevalence and 95%CI of moderate (rarely/sometimes hungry), severe (most of the time/always hungry), and any (moderate or severe) food insecurity (past 30-day) was calculated for each survey. Crude linear trends in food insecurity were assessed by linear regression models. (3) Results: The mean prevalence of any food insecurity was 52.2% (moderate 46.5%; severe 5.7%). Significant increasing and decreasing trends of any food insecurity were found in seven countries each. A sizeable decrease and increase were observed in Benin (71.2% in 2009 to 49.2% in 2016) and Mauritius (25.0% in 2011 to 43.6% in 2017), respectively. Severe food insecurity increased in countries such as Vanuatu (4.9% in 2011 to 8.4% in 2016) and Mauritius (3.5% in 2011 to 8.2% in 2017). The rate of decrease was modest in most countries with a significant decreasing trend, while many countries with stable trends showed consistently high prevalence of food insecurity. (4) Conclusion: Global action is urgently required to address food insecurity among adolescents, as our data show that achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2 to end hunger and all forms of malnutrition by 2030 would be difficult without strong global commitment.
Bioavailability of Macroelements from Synbiotic Sheep’s Milk Ice Cream
Authors: Kowalczyk Magdalena , Znamirowska-Piotrowska Agata , Buniowska-Olejnik Magdalena , Zaguła Grzegorz , Pawlos Małgorzata
Published: July 2023

To determine the potential bioavailability of macroelements (Ca, Mg, P, K), probiotic ice cream samples (Lactaseibacillus paracasei L-26, Lactobacillus casei 431, Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5, Lactaseibacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis BB-12) from sheep’s milk with inulin, apple fiber and inulin, or apple fiber and control samples were submitted to in vitro digestion in the mouth, stomach and small intestine. The bioavailability of calcium in the ice cream samples ranged from 40.63% to 54.40%, whereas that of magnesium was 55.64% to 44.42%. The highest bioavailability of calcium and magnesium was shown for the control samples. However, adding 4% inulin reduced the bioavailability of calcium by about 3–5% and magnesium only by about 5–6%. Adding 4% apple fiber reduced the bioavailability of calcium by as much as 6–12% and magnesium by 7–8%. The highest bioavailability of calcium was determined in ice cream with L. paracasei, and the highest bioavailability of magnesium was determined in ice cream with L. casei. The bioavailability of phosphorus in ice cream ranged from 47.82% to 50.94%. The highest bioavailability of phosphorus (>50%) was in sheep ice cream fermented by B. animalis. In the control ice cream, the bioavailability of potassium was about 60%. In ice cream with inulin, the bioavailability of potassium was lower by 3–4%, and in ice cream with apple fiber, the bioavailability of potassium was lower by up to 6–9%. The bioavailability of potassium was significantly influenced only by the addition of dietary fiber. The results of the study confirmed the beneficial effect of bacteria on the bioavailability of Ca, Mg and P.
Lower Urinary Tract Disorders as Adverse Drug Reactions—A Literature Review
Authors: Dobrek Lukasz
Published: July 2023

A potential complication of pharmacotherapy for a given patient is the possibility of various side effects of drugs, which are manifested in many ways and constitute iatrogenic causes of diseases. Among the systemic side effects of drugs, there are also those involving the urinary tract, although these are less reported in the literature. The use of numerous drugs—especially of anticholinergics or drugs with anticholinergic potential, opioid analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antidepressants, first-generation antipsychotics (classic neuroleptics) and selected cardiovascular drugs (beta-blockers, thiazides potassium-sparing diuretics, statins), as well as others—may increase the risk of developing urological disorders, such as urinary retention or incontinence, urinary tract infections, urolithiasis, erectile dysfunction in men and retroperitoneal fibrosis. The purpose of this paper is to characterise the abovementioned drug-induced disorders of the lower urinary tract on the basis of a non-systematic literature review.
Isolated Fraction of Gastric-Digested Camel Milk Yogurt with Carao (Cassia grandis) Pulp Fortification Enhances the Anti-Inflammatory Properties of HT-29 Human Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Marcia Jhunior Abrahan , Aleman Ricardo S. , Kazemzadeh Shirin , Manrique Fernández Víctor , Martín Vertedor Daniel , Kayanush Aryana , Montero Fernández Ismael
Published: July 2023

Functional foods have recently generated a lot of attention among consumers looking for healthy options. Studies have examined yogurt with carao to increase health benefits and probiotic characteristics. It has been determined that carao fruit and camel milk have high phenolic compound and antioxidant activity concentrations. The objective of this study was to examine if carao (0, 1.3, 2.65, and 5.3 g/L) incorporated into yogurt enhances anti-inflammatory stimulus and antioxidant activity and impacts the physio-chemical and sensory properties of camel milk yogurt. HT-29 cells were used as a model of anti-inflammatory response, including cytokine responses of IL-8 and mRNA production of IL-1β and TNF-α in gastric digested isolated fraction. In addition, pH, titratable acidity, Streptococcus thermophilus counts and Lactobacillus bulgaricus counts of camel yogurts were examined during the fermentation process in 0, 2.5, 5, and 7 h whereas viscosity, syneresis, and radical scavenging assay evaluations were determined at hour 7. Furthermore, a consumer study was performed. Compared to control samples, the incorporation of carao into yogurts did not lead to a significant (ρ > 0.05) difference in the pH. In contrast, titratable acidity (TA), viscosity, syneresis, and antioxidant capacity significantly increased with the inclusion of 2.65 and 5.3 g/L carao, while 5.3 g/L carao significantly (ρ < 0.05) increased the counts of both bacteria. The inflammatory response of IL-8 and the level of mRNA production of IL-1β and TNF-α was significantly (ρ < 0.05) lower with 2.65 and 5.3 g/L carao yogurt compared to control camel yogurt. Sensory attributes were not impacted by the addition of 1.3 and 2.65 g/L carao. Carao could be a possible ingredient to consider when improving the nutrition value of yogurt.
Natural Antimicrobials Block the Host NF-κB Pathway and Reduce Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei Infection Both In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Bunduruș Iulia Adelina , Balta Igori , Butucel Eugenia , Callaway Todd , Popescu Cosmin Alin , Iancu Tiberiu , Pet Ioan , Stef Lavinia , Corcionivoschi Nicolae
Published: July 2023

The objective of this work was to investigate, for the first time, the antioxidant effect of a mixture of natural antimicrobials in an Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) shrimp-gut model of infection and the biological mechanisms involved in their way of action. The study approach included investigations, firstly, in vitro, on shrimp-gut primary (SGP) epithelial cells and in vivo by using EHP-challenged shrimp. Our results show that exposure of EHP spores to 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2% AuraAqua (Aq) significantly reduced spore activity at all concentrations but was more pronounced after exposure to 0.5% Aq. The Aq was able to reduce EHP infection of SGP cells regardless of cells being pretreated or cocultured during infection with Aq. The survivability of SGP cells infected with EHP spores was significantly increased in both scenarios; however, a more noticeable effect was observed when the infected cells were pre-exposed to Aq. Our data show that infection of SGP cells by EHP activates the host NADPH oxidases and the release of H2O2 produced. When Aq was used during infection, a significant reduction in H2O2 was observed concomitant with a significant increase in the levels of CAT and SOD enzymes. Moreover, in the presence of 0.5% Aq, the overproduction of CAT and SOD was correlated with the inactivation of the NF-κB pathway, which, otherwise, as we show, is activated upon EHP infection of SGP cells. In a challenge test, Aq was able to significantly reduce mortality in EHP-infected shrimp and increase the levels of CAT and SOD in the gut tissue. Conclusively, these results show, for the first time, that a mixture of natural antimicrobials (Aq) can reduce the EHP-spore activity, improve the survival rates of primary gut-shrimp epithelial cells and reduce the oxidative damage caused by EHP infection. Moreover, we show that Aq was able to stop the H2O2 activation of the NF-κB pathway of Crustins, Penaeidins, and the lysozyme, and the CAT and SOD activity both in vitro and in a shrimp challenge test.
Perception, Self, and Zen: On Iris Murdoch and the Taming of Simone Weil
Authors: Caprioglio Panizza Silvia
Published: July 2023

How do we see the world aright? This question is central to Iris Murdoch’s philosophy as well as to that of her great source of inspiration, Simone Weil. For both of them, not only our action, but the very quality of our being depends on the ability to see things as they are, where vision is both a metaphor for immediate understanding and a literal expression of the requirement to train our perception so as to get rid of illusions. For both, too, the method to achieve this goal is attention. For both, finally, attention requires a dethronement of the self, considered as the source of illusion. In this paper I investigate what moral perception means for each of these philosophers and how it operates through attention and its relationship with the self. I will show that, despite many striking similarities, Murdoch’s project does not equal ‘Weil minus God’, but offers a different concept of the self, a different understanding of its removal, and therefore a different picture of attention and moral perception. In evaluating both views, I will gesture towards a third way represented by Zen Buddhism, which both philosophers variously consider but do not embrace.
Polymer Materials for Drug Delivery and Tissue Engineering
Authors: Hudiță Ariana , Gălățeanu Bianca
Published: July 2023

In recent years, the biomedical engineering field has seen remarkable advancements, focusing mainly on developing novel solutions for enhancing tissue regeneration or improving therapeutic outcomes [...]
Contemporary Mirror Imaging between American and Iranian Citizens: An Exploratory Mixed-Method Research Study
Authors: Yaghoubi Jami Parvaneh (Paria) , Tabrizi Kasra
Published: July 2023

In this study, an exploratory mixed-method approach was employed to investigate the attitudes of Iranians and Americans toward each other, specifically focusing on two critical incidents in their modern history. Drawing from quantitative and qualitative data collected in relation to the hostage crisis in 1979, the missile attack on an Iranian passenger plane (Iran Air 655) in 1988, and the travel ban (Executive Order 13780) in 2018, the study aimed to uncover any changes in attitudes over the course of history. Unlike previous research, the majority of participants had a more balanced and less biased viewpoint toward each other and approached the incidents by considering the consequences and ethical aspects associated with each event. These findings challenge the notion of a mirror image effect, which suggests that people tend to adopt their government’s attitude toward other nations. Instead, participants demonstrated a tendency to rely on their own judgment and critically evaluate information, rather than blindly accepting media narratives.
Catholic Churches of the Colonial Period in the Southern Andes of Peru: An Evocation towards the Past
Authors: Huanca-Arohuanca Jesús Wiliam , Gutiérrez-Gómez Edgar , Ccama-Ramos Giovana , Supo-Condori Felipe , Mamani-Jilaja Dometila
Published: July 2023

The spectral space of the Andes has an architectural cultural richness based on the construction of shrines with a Christian tendency from Spain. The purpose of the study is to analyze and describe the historical process of the colonial Catholic churches located in the Aymara Altiplano of Peru. The study followed the qualitative parameter of historical documentation, where the colonial origin of the buildings was traced, their singular conceptual designs were established, and their use was examined, to finally explain their permanence in time, since they developed in two transcendental moments: the diachronic history and the systematic description of the characteristics in the current churches. Ecclesiastical sanctuaries such as San Pedro and San Pablo, San Juan Evangelista, Concepcion, and Santa Barbara began their construction in 1560, being the first and the oldest to be constituted by the Spanish, but strictly with functions of Christianizing and the collection of taxes from the indigenous people of the Altiplano.
Spectral and Spatial Dependencies in the Validation of Satellite-Based Aerosol Optical Depth from the Geostationary Ocean Color Imager Using the Aerosol Robotic Network
Authors: Kim Mijeong , Lee Kyunghwa , Choi Myungje
Published: July 2023

The regional and global scale of aerosols in the atmosphere can be quantified using the aerosol optical depth (AOD) retrieved from satellite observations. To obtain reliable satellite AODs, conducting consistent validations and refining retrieval algorithms are crucial. AODs and Ångström exponents (AEs) measured with the aerosol robotic network (AERONET) are considered as the ground truth for satellite validations. AERONET AEs are used to collocate the wavelength of the AERONET AODs to those of the satellite AODs when there is a discordancy in their wavelengths. However, numerous validation studies have proposed different strategies by applying the AERONET AODs and AEs, and spatiotemporal collocation criteria. This study examined the impact of the wavelength and spatial collocation radius variations by comparing AODs at 550 nm derived from the geostationary ocean color imager (GOCI) with those obtained from the AERONET for the year 2016. The estimated AERONET AODs at 550 nm varied from 5.18% to 11.73% depending on the selection of AOD and AE, and the spatial collocation radii from 0 to 40 km, respectively. The longer the collocation radius and the higher the AODs, the greater the variability observed in the validation results. Overall, the selection of the spatial collocation radius had a stronger impact on the variability in the validation results obtained compared to the selection of the wavelength. The variability was also found in seasonal analysis. Therefore, it is recommended to carefully select the data wavelength and spatial collocation radius, consider seasonal effects, and provide this information when validating satellite AODs using AERONET.
The Detection of Green Tide Biomass by Remote Sensing Images and In Situ Measurement in the Yellow Sea of China
Authors: Tian Wei , Wang Juan , Zhang Fengli , Liu Xudong , Yang Jian , Yuan Junna , Mi Xiaofei , Shao Yun
Published: July 2023

The world’s largest macroalgae bloom (also known as green tide) has been reported since the 29th Olympic Games in 2008, which is verified as the fast reproduction of floating green macroalgae (Ulva prolifera). It is helpful to assess the biomass of macroalgae for the government of marine environment protection. In this study, the synchronization cruise experiment was firstly introduced, which aimed to investigate the biomass evaluation of Ulva prolifera in the Yellow Sea of China. The Floating Algae Index by Polarimetric SAR image (FAIPS) was then proposed. Finally, the floating algae biomass evaluation model was demonstrated and verified, which showed an exponential relationship between FAIPS and wet biomass per area (kg/m2) of macroalgae. The model proposed in this paper can be used in the biomass assessment of floating algae in the presence of polarimetric SAR images, regardless of daylight and cloud coverage over the sea surface.
Spatiotemporal Variations of Global Human-Perceived Heatwave Risks and their Driving Factors Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Wang Yuwei , Zhao Na
Published: July 2023

With ongoing global warming, heatwave-related disasters are on the rise, exerting a multifaceted impact on both the natural ecosystem and human society. While temperature has been extensively studied in the effects of extreme heat on human health, humidity has often been ignored. It is crucial to consider the combined influence of temperature and humidity when assessing heatwave risks and safeguarding human well-being. This study, leveraging remote sensing products and reanalysis data, presented the first analysis of the spatiotemporal variations in global human-perceived heatwaves on a seasonal scale from 2000 to 2020, and further employed the Random Forest (RF) regression model to quantitatively assess the explanatory power of seven driving factors. The study found that since the 21st century (1) changes in Heat Index (HI) have varied significantly worldwide, with the majority of regions witnessing an increase, particularly at higher latitudes. The largest HI-increasing area was observed in the second quarter (S2), while the overall HI increase peaked in the third quarter (S3); (2) except for the decreasing area of none-risk regions, the regions under all other risk levels expanded (the proportion of high-risk areas in the world increased from 2.97% to 3.69% in S2, and from 0.04% to 0.35% in the fourth quarter (S4)); (3) aspect demonstrated the greatest explanatory power for the global heatwave distribution (0.69–0.76), followed by land-use coverage (LUCC, 0.48–0.55) and precipitation (0.16–0.43), while the explanatory power of slope and nighttime light (NTL) was rather low; (4) over the years, the explanatory power of each factor for heatwave distribution underwent a minor decrease without significant trend, but exhibited seasonal periodicity. Climatic factors and LUCC were most impactful in the first quarter (S1), while DEM and other human factors dominated in S2; and (5) interaction factors showed no significant trends over the years, but the explanatory power of DEM and slope increased notably when interacting with climate factor, aspect, and LUCC, respectively. The interactions between the aspect and LUCC with precipitation yielded the highest explanatory power (above 0.85) across all interactions. To effectively tackle heatwave risks, it is suggested to concentrate on high-latitude regions, reinforce land use and urban planning with eco-friendly strategies, scrutinize the interplay between precipitation and heatwaves, capitalize on topographic data for devising well-informed prevention measures, and tailor response strategies to accommodate seasonal fluctuations. This study offers valuable insights for enhancing climate change adaptation, disaster prevention, and mitigation strategies, ultimately contributing to the alleviation of extreme heatwaves and risk reduction.
Harnessing Buffer Solutions to Modify the Association State of Ferritin Nanoparticles
Authors: Incocciati Alessio , Cappelletti Chiara , Boffi Alberto , Macone Alberto , Bonamore Alessandra
Published: July 2023

Recent years have witnessed remarkable progress in the field of drug delivery driven by the pursuit of efficient and targeted delivery systems [...]
In the Absence of Testosterone: Hormonal Treatment, Masculinity, and Health among Prostate Cancer Patients Engaging in an Exercise Programme
Authors: Rindhagen Cecilia , Andreasson Jesper , Johansson Thomas
Published: July 2023

This study focuses on men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) treatment for prostate cancer who also participated in an exercise programme as part of their rehabilitation. Our aim was twofold. First, we aimed to describe and analyse how the participants talk about their treatment and its side-effects in relation to the body and masculinity. Second, we aimed to describe the participants’ understanding of and motivation to participate in a physical activity programme designed by healthcare professionals to deal with anticipated and unwanted bodily changes following treatment. Focus group interviews and individual interviews were conducted. Theoretically, the study leans on phenomenological theories of embodiment combined with a sociologically informed framework found in critical studies on men and masculinity. The results showed that the medical suspension of testosterone impacted not only the men’s understanding of themselves as men but also how they approached their own bodies. Testosterone was discussed as a source of masculinity and masculine traits. Consequently, the absence of testosterone following treatment led to ongoing reflections on how to understand the (ageing) body and its relationship to masculinity. The ageing ADT body, with growing breasts and a lack of libido, became a site of emasculation and bodily detachment. The men addressed this by displaying stoic masculinity; instead of addressing the problem emotionally they turned their attention and aspirations to having a capable body and being able to carry out physical work. However, participation in the exercise programme depended on recruitment by their physicians and was motivated by the opportunity to socialise with other men in the same situation.
How Organizational Agility Promotes Digital Transformation: An Empirical Study
Authors: Zhang Hui , Ding Huiying , Xiao Jianying
Published: July 2023

With the development of digital technologies and their increasing application in government, digital transformation is a wave rolling up the world. Previous studies had investigated some factors that affect digital transformation. But there is little research on the impact of organizational agility on digital transformation in government. To fill this gap, based on the dynamic capabilities view, this study aims to investigate how organizational agility affects digital transformation and dynamic capabilities as antecedents and factors impacting organizational agility. A survey study was conducted to empirically test the model. The data were collected from 313 government employees in government departments. The findings suggest that (1) organizational agility significantly influences digital transformation and (2) dynamic capabilities are important predictors of organizational agility.
Two Contribution Paths of Carbon Neutrality: Terrestrial Ecosystem Carbon Sinks and Anthropogenic Carbon Emission Reduction—A Case of Chongqing, China
Authors: Qiu Luyi , Niu Kunying , He Wei , Hu Yaqi
Published: July 2023

Carbon neutrality attracts worldwide attention due to its significance and urgency. Anthropogenic emission reduction and terrestrial ecosystem carbon sinks are the two main paths to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality. However, in current studies, both are usually regarded as independent systems to conduct separate carbon function research. It is necessary to compare their contributions across sectors within the same emission reduction framework. Therefore, the paper takes Chongqing, China as an example and applies the carbon coefficient method to compare terrestrial ecosystem carbon sinks with anthropogenic carbon emissions in the same land structure and carbon sectors. Then, the scenario assumption is adopted to assess their contribution and impact in 2030 and 2060 to achieve carbon neutrality. Several conclusions are drawn: (1) Terrestrial ecosystem carbon sinks offset 3.45% of anthropogenic emissions in 2018, of which forest ecosystems contributed significantly. (2) Construction land played a decisive role in carbon emissions, which are constantly consolidated and deepened. Fossil energy is the main carbon source. (3) All scenarios can reduce emissions. The effect of energy structure transformation is the most prominent, but the benefits of expanding forest area and reducing waste disposal are small.
Simulation and Experiment of Fertilizer Discharge Characteristics of Spiral Grooved Wheel with Different Working Parameters
Authors: Song Xuefeng , Dai Fei , Zhang Xuekun , Gao Wenjie , Li Xiangzhou , Zhang Fengwei , Zhao Wuyun
Published: July 2023

Fertilizer particles have strong hygroscopicity and agglomeration often occurs during their storage, which leads to a blocked phenomenon during the operation of the external grooved wheel fertilizer discharger. In this study, the bond model of fertilizer block was constructed based on the discrete element method (DEM) to further explore the effect of different working parameters of the spiral grooved wheel on the fertilizer discharge characteristics. According to the Box–Behnken experimental design principle, a three-factor and three-level simulation experiment was carried out with the factors of grooved wheel speed, grooved wheel section shape, and spiral rise angle. The simulation results showed the variation coefficient of fertilizer uniformity was affected, from important to secondary, mainly by the rotating speed of the grooved wheel, the cross-sectional shape of the grooved wheel, and the spiral rise angle. The broken rate of fertilizer block bond was affected, from important to secondary, mainly by the spiral rise angle, the cross-sectional shape of the grooved wheel, and the rotational speed of the grooved wheel. The optimal combination of working parameters was obtained by optimizing and analyzing the data; the rotating speed of the grooved wheel was 21 r/min, the scoop section, and the spiral rise angle was 70°. Under the best working parameters, the variation coefficient of fertilizer uniformity was 8.56%, and the broken rate of fertilizer block bond was 97.67%. The validation experiment results showed that the variation coefficient of fertilizer uniformity was 9.23%, the broken rate of fertilizer block bond was 94.28%, and the relative data error was less than 10%. The experimental results are close to the simulation results. The research results can provide a reference for the structural design and parameter optimization of spiral grooved wheel fertilizer discharger.
Lifestyle-LCA: Challenges and Perspectives
Authors: Bossek David , Bach Vanessa , Finkbeiner Matthias
Published: July 2023

Former Life-LCA case studies provided valuable insights into the environmental impacts associated with specific human beings. However, they were resource and time intensive due to primary data collection. Therefore, this study’s goal is to develop a generic yet comprehensive framework, which is called “Lifestyle-LCA” making an environmental impact assessment of human beings more accessible to the general public. The methodology consists of (1) the development of the conceptual framework, (2) its application in a first case study, (3) refinement and validation of the approach based on the case study results, and a practical user (4) application guidance. Regionality, income, and life stage were identified as key influencing factors on a person’s lifestyle. The “Lifestyle-LCA” inventory provides a framework for determining baseline consumer values per defined lifestyle (ranging from eco-enthusiast to disinterested) and distributing product clusters based on their emission profile. A case study based on the average German consumer shows a range from 4 to 14 t CO2-eq. per year for the defined lifestyles. Two presented application pathways allow users to choose the most appropriate approach depending on their available resources, time, goal, and scope. Future studies should test the framework across various cultural backgrounds, including new societal, economic, and personal factors.
The Maize Supply Chain Coordination Mechanism under Yield Uncertainty Caused by Drought: A Study in the Heilongjiang Province of China
Authors: Shi Yan , Wang Fulin , Wang Ying , Jia Lili
Published: July 2023

Deficient rainfall due to drought is an inevitable factor triggering maize yield uncertainty, thus affecting the performance and sustainability of the supply chain. Therefore, this paper first uses historical data to quantitatively fit the unfavorable effect of rainfall on maize yield affected by drought, taking the maize planting in the Heilongjiang Province of China as an example. Then, using a Stackelberg game, payback revenue sharing (PBRS), and cost revenue sharing (CRS), contract mechanisms are developed to coordinate the maize supply chain incorporating yield uncertainty from drought and demand risk faced by the retailer. We investigate the impact of uncertain maize yield on the supply chain and conduct numerical experiments to verify the analysis. The results reveal that declining rainfall, representing increasing drought severity, negatively affects the profits of the entire supply chain and its members; however, supply chain efficiency is raised under both coordinated contracts. In addition, the yield risk-sharing proportion was higher under a CRS mechanism than a PBRS one, which gives more incentives for the vulnerable supplier to participate in the supply chain. Finally, our analysis indicates that rearranging contract structures and parameters based on classic revenue sharing contracts could realize supply chain coordination.
Effects of Gamification on Students’ English Language Proficiency: A Meta-Analysis on Research in South Korea
Authors: Lee Je-Young , Baek Minkyung
Published: July 2023

This study presents a meta-analysis of research on the impact of gamification on English language proficiency among South Korean students. Through an examination of 11 cases involving 610 participants, the study reveals a medium effect size (g = 0.517), suggesting that gamification can significantly enhance English language learning outcomes. The analysis also reveals that theses (g = 0.799) reported higher effect sizes than journal articles (g = 0.298), and that the absence of technology in gamified learning interventions could potentially lead to larger effect sizes (g = 0.932). Furthermore, the incorporation of points/scores and badges/rewards showed statistically significant effects on student learning. The study found no significant differences in effect sizes when considering grade, number of participants, weeks, sessions, sessions per week, and the number of gaming elements. The results demonstrate varying impact of gamification across different subcomponents of English proficiency, particularly in the learning of vocabulary, listening, and writing skills. The findings underscore the potential of gamification as a tool for English language learning, but also call for careful consideration in its design and implementation to maximize learning outcomes. Lastly, we offer suggestions for future research and discuss the pedagogical implications of this study.
New Sustainable Oil Seed Sources of Omega-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: A Journey from the Ocean to the Field
Authors: Zhou Xue-Rong , Yao Zhuyun June , Benedicto Katrina , Nichols Peter D. , Green Allan , Singh Surinder
Published: July 2023

Omega-3 long-chain (≥C20) polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3 LC-PUFA) play a critical physiological role in health and are nutritionally important for both humans and animals. The abundance of marine-derived resources of the health-benefitting ω3 LC-PUFA is either static or in some cases declining. This review focuses on the development and deregulation of novel oilseed crops producing ω3 LC-PUFA and their market applications. Genetic engineering of ω3 LC-PUFA into sustainable oilseed crops involving multiple-gene pathways to reach fish oil-like levels of these key nutrients has been extremely challenging. After two decades of collaborative effort, oilseed crops containing fish oil-levels of ω3 LC-PUFA and importantly also containing a high ω3/ω6 ratio have been developed. Deregulation of genetically engineered crops with such novel nutritional traits is also challenging and more trait-based regulations should be adopted. Some ω3 LC-PUFA-producing oilseed crops have been approved for large-scale cultivation, and for applications into feed and food. These genetically engineered oilseed crops can and will help meet the increasing market demand for aquaculture and human nutrition. These new oil seed sources of ω3 LC-PUFA offer a sustainable, safe, cost-effective, and scalable land-based solution, which can have critical and positive health, economic, and environmental impacts.
Designing Urban Spaces to Enhance Active and Sustainable Mobility: An Analysis of Physical and Symbolic Affordances in School Squares in the Metropolitan Area of Milan, Italy
Authors: Bianchi Federica , Riga Dafni , Moscarelli Rossella , Pileri Paolo
Published: July 2023

As thresholds to cities, public spaces adjacent to schools play an important role in children’s everyday mobilities, potentially shaping their future mobility habits and affective experiences. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the urban design conditions of such spaces, defined as “school squares”, and, with the aid of affordance theory, to analyze spatial features and characteristics that might encourage or hinder active and sustainable mobility practices. In the first part of the paper, we define sustainable mobility, conduct a literature review on affective responses to the urban environment, and discuss active school travel (AST) in relation to the design of school squares. By focusing on 416 primary and lower secondary schools in the metropolitan area of Milan, we present an assessment method that is composed of on-desk and on-site surveys. In particular, Phase 1 defines the type of school squares, Phase 2 investigates physical affordances (spatial features and characteristics that directly influence active mobility practices, such as bicycle racks, protective barriers, benches, and parked cars), and Phase 3 discusses symbolic affordances (elements and characteristics that might induce different affective responses to a school square with regard to active mobility, such as bicycle racks, parked cars, greenery, and dustbins). The results indicate that in most cases school squares are characterized by typological confusion that has nothing to do with the school environment: narrow sidewalks, disorder, and low levels of safety. In order to promote active and sustainable mobility choices and enhance children’s mobile experiences, it is necessary to address the aforementioned features. The ultimate goal of this paper is to provide insights for developing an urban regeneration framework that considers school squares a safe context and a starting point from which to perform sustainable mobility practices.
Preparation, Characterization and Application of Novel Photocatalytic Two-Dimensional Material Membrane: A Reform of Comprehensive Experimental Teaching
Authors: Zeng Guangyong , Zheng Hu , Zhou Kun , Shi Hao , Zheng Size , Ma Hui , Wang Peng , Pu Shengyan
Published: July 2023

Recently, two-dimensional materials (2DM) have garnered considerable interest in the field of membrane separation owing to their distinctive microstructure and chemical properties. However, membrane fouling still limits the further application of 2DM in wastewater treatment. This work designed and constructed a series of novel composite membranes by introducing the photocatalyst NH2-MIL-88B (Fe) into the structure of 2D material MXene (Ti3C2TX) nanosheets. The membranes not only improved their ability to remove various dyes from wastewater but also achieved in-situ degradation of pollutants on the membrane surface and inner structure, demonstrating its self-cleaning ability. This work solved the critical technical problem of MXene-based membrane fouling, providing a good reference for its further practical application. In addition, it also developed a comprehensive experiment that involves principles of materials science, chemical separation, and environmental protection. By reforming the original experimental design, it is helpful for college students to master interdisciplinary basic knowledge, cultivating their innovation and practical ability. Hence, this work involves approaches is meaningful for both environmental protection and experimental teaching.
Holistic Methods of Assessing the Historical Wooden Structure on the Example of the Floor of the Polish Manor House in Tarnowiec
Authors: Różańska Anna , Koryciński Wojciech , Kozakiewicz Paweł
Published: July 2023

Sustainable development should take into account the conservation and preservation of architectural features characteristic of a given cultural area for future generations. Chemical, physical and mechanical properties of timber components are key to assessing the technical preservation of historical timber structures, defining proper restoration methodology and extending the durability of timber structures. Moreover, this evaluation will help to elaborate assessment criteria to decide between the restoration or replacement of a given antique structure. The article presents a method of assessing a historical wooden structure on the example of an antique decorative wooden floor from the beginning of the 19th century, preserved in the Tarnowiec Manor House. It determines tests and scientific analysis as a tool for a decision of possibilities of further usage of the historical floor structure. We performed tests and scientific analysis by calculating the functional properties of the parquet panels, performing a visual inspection, as well as resistance tests, tests of longitudinal curvature deviation and shape preservation, tests of fungi infestation and its impact on the state of preservation, as well as future perspectives for the use of parquet elements. The results of the evaluation verify that the proposed methodologies are reasonable and will help to elaborate assessment criteria to decide between the restoration or replacement of a given antique parquet.
Hyperspectral Imaging Applied to WEEE Plastic Recycling: A Methodological Approach
Authors: Bonifazi Giuseppe , Fiore Ludovica , Gasbarrone Riccardo , Palmieri Roberta , Serranti Silvia
Published: July 2023

In this study, the possibility of applying the hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technique in the Short-Wave InfraRed (SWIR) spectral range to characterize polymeric parts coming from Waste from Electric and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is explored. Different case studies are presented referring to the identification of (i) plastic flakes inside a mixed waste stream coming from a recycling plant of monitors and flat screens, (ii) different polymers inside a mixed plastic waste stream coming from End-Of-Life (EOL) electronic device housings and trims, (iii) contaminants (i.e., metals) in a mix of shredded plastic particles coming from a recycling line of electrical cables, and (iv) brominated plastics in mixed streams constituted by small appliances (i.e., cathode-ray tube televisions and monitors). The application of chemometric techniques to hyperspectral data demonstrated the potentiality of this approach for systematic utilization for material characterization, quality control and sorting purposes. The experimental findings highlight the feasibility of employing this method due to its user-friendly nature and quick detection response. To increase and optimize WEEE valorization avoiding disposal in landfills or incineration, recycling-oriented characterization and/or quality control of the processed products are fundamental to identify and quantify substances to be recovered.
Green and Sustainable Chemistry Teacher Education: Experiences from a Brazilian University
Authors: Gomes Caroindes J. C. , Zuin Zeidler Vânia G.
Published: July 2023

Green and sustainable chemistry education provides opportunities to comprehend and base chemistry knowledge on relevant social and historical contexts, reflecting on fairer and sustainable realities. For this purpose, this work discusses the possibilities and challenges observed during a chemistry teacher training course at a Brazilian university, analyzing how the undergraduates utilized the formative experiences provided by the discipline and how they reinterpreted them when developing didactic sequences based on socio-scientific issues. Using discursive textual analysis, we studied the self-assessments and the didactic sequences produced. The activities developed were positively evaluated by the students and provided the opportunity to create didactic sequences with potential application in schools, founded on cooperative and democratic dynamics and topics that were locally important. On the other hand, the students had some difficulties including chemistry content, mainly considering their relationship with the topics addressed. However, the process proved to be fundamental for the students to perceive themselves as teachers, in addition to provoking them toward (re)constructions and other possibilities.
Prediction of High-Speed Traffic Flow around City Based on BO-XGBoost Model
Authors: Lu Xin , Chen Cai , Gao RuiDan , Xing ZhenZhen
Published: July 2023

The prediction of high-speed traffic flow around the city is affected by multiple factors, which have certain particularity and difficulty. This study devised an asymmetric Bayesian optimization extreme gradient boosting (BO-XGBoost) model based on Bayesian optimization for the spatiotemporal and multigranularity prediction of high-speed traffic flow around a city. First, a traffic flow dataset for a ring expressway was constructed, and the data features were processed based on the original data. The data were then visualized, and their spatiotemporal distribution exhibited characteristics such as randomness, continuity, periodicity, and rising fluctuations. Secondly, a feature matrix was constructed monthly for the dataset, and the BO-XGBoost model was used for traffic flow prediction. The proposed model BO-XGBoost was compared with the symmetric model bidirectional long short-term memory and integrated models (random forest, extreme gradient boosting, and categorical boosting) that directly input temporal data. The R-squared (R2) of the BO XGBoost model for predicting TF and PCU reached 0.90 and 0.87, respectively, with an average absolute percentage error of 2.88% and 3.12%, respectively. Thus, the proposed model achieved an accurate prediction of high-speed traffic flow around the province, providing a theoretical basis and data support for the development of central-city planning.
Modeling and Testing Screening Mechanisms in the Laboratory and in Space
Authors: Vardanyan Valeri , Bartlett Deaglan J.
Published: July 2023

The non-linear dynamics of scalar fields coupled to matter and gravity can lead to remarkable density-dependent screening effects. In this short review, we present the main classes of screening mechanisms, and discuss their tests in laboratory and astrophysical systems. We particularly focused on reviewing numerical and technical aspects involved in modeling the non-linear dynamics of screening and on tests using laboratory experiments and astrophysical systems, such as stars, galaxies, and dark matter halos.
The Courtyard as an Element of the Urban Environment as Perceived by Yekaterinburg Residents
Authors: Zotova Olga , Tarasova Lyudmila
Published: July 2023

Social and cultural changes have brought about a new understanding of the space–time continuum within which modern cities are evolving. A comfortable urban environment contributes to the development of a sustainable urban environment, to the psychological health and social well-being of citizens, as shown by the observation of life in public spaces. In our study, the courtyard is treated as a specific human habitat that satisfies a wide range of people’s needs due to the unity of physical, social, and existential features of the place. It is the environment that is present throughout a person’s life, is biographically tied up with his history and that of his family, and therefore reflects his individuality, expresses identity, and stimulates personal authenticity. To assess Yekaterinburg residents’ perception of the yard space as an element of the urban environment, which is the aim of the study, the authors exploited the method of a questionnaire based on two measures, namely architectural semantic differential and incomplete sentences. It was found that the image My Courtyard was the most uncomfortable and “frozen” of all the urban elements and My City was the most comfortable and dynamic. The respondents perceive the house and the adjacent area as a complete unit. The coincidence of the Ideal Courtyard image in all groups of respondents indicates that this image is universal and does not depend on the place of a person’s actual residence. The study can contribute to formulating recommendation to develop the courtyard space and universal models for improving adjacent areas, taking into account the psychological characteristics and needs of the population.