bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Underwater Flashlights: What Light Can Tell Us About Water Quality
Authors: Ryan Kevin A. , Burns Douglas A.
Published: January 2024

Water is essential for life. The particles and dissolved chemicals found in rivers, lakes, and oceans are constantly changing with weather, seasons, and human activities. The substances found in water can be helpful or harmful to humans and other organisms. New technologies allow scientists to use waterproof computers (called sensors) to record the quality of water as it changes throughout the day or night. Many sensors use the interaction of water with light, or other energy forms, to learn about what is in it. Through observing what happens to light energy in water, scientists can reveal the sources and movements of harmful pollutants or essential nutrients for plants, animals, and bacteria. Networks containing many sensors work together to provide continuous information about the ever-changing conditions that affect all living organisms that depend on water.
Removal of chromate in aqueous solutions by termite nests and reduction chromate accumulation in Brassica chinensis L.
Authors: Wang Ming , Wang Nana , Zhou Jiacang , Yuan Jing , Jiang Lijun , Lu LingJia , Yan Jiaqi , Gong Shuxin , Zeng Yang , Zhang Runfeng , Zhi Lifeng , Li Ganghua
Published: January 2024

Chromate [Cr(VI)] is a highly toxic heavy metal element, representing one of the most prevalent sources of wastewater contamination. It poses a significant threat to human health and food safety. Therefore, effective treatment before discharging wastewater is of paramount importance. In this study, termite nests (Coptotermes formosanus and Odontotermes formosanus), as natural biomass materials, were used to adsorb Cr(VI) ions in wastewater as a strategy to reduce environmental pollution and minimize poisoning by Cr. Structural and morphological characterizations were performed using scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to evaluate the influence of termite nest dosage, coexisting ions, and pH. To gain further insight, detailed studies on adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherms, and adsorption thermodynamics were undertaken. The results indicate that under acidic pH conditions, both termite nests exhibit the highest adsorption capacity for Cr(VI), with an optimal adsorbent dosage of 10 g/L. The maximum adsorption capacities of C. formosanus nest and O. formosanus nest for Cr(VI) were found to be 48.52 mg/g and 35.99 mg/g, respectively. Thermodynamic studies confirmed the spontaneous and endothermic nature of the adsorption process. In the rapeseed cultivation experiment, the growth status of Brassica chinensis L. post-adsorption treatment was markedly improved compared to the untreated group. Additionally, the concentration of Cr(VI) in the plants was significantly reduced. This demonstrates both the inhibitory effect of Cr(VI) on the growth of oilseed rape and the effectiveness of water remediation techniques. In addition, both types of termite nests can be effectively reused by 0.1 mol/L HCl. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of adsorption removal of Cr(VI) by C. formosanus nest and O. formosanus nest. Compared to traditional natural biomass adsorbents, termite nests exhibit a relatively higher adsorption capacity for Cr(VI). The results of this study demonstrate that subterranean termite nests can efficiently remove Cr(VI) from wastewater, offering the potential for a cost-effective and reusable bioremediation agent with the advantages of ease of operation.
Przekład tytułów filmowych jako problem translatologiczny i (glotto)dydaktyczny
Authors: Tambor Agnieszka
Published: January 2024

This article is dedicated to the issue of translating film titles. The author examines the latest blockbusters as a material enabling not only an interesting class discussion on translation strategies, but also, or perhaps foremost, approach to titles as instruments for acquiring the knowledge of a language and culture. Film titles and methods of translating them from foreign languages are presented in the text as a class component that could help develop language competence in learners, i.e. a skill that is often overlooked in the traditional language education model, which focuses primarily on grammatical correctness and reconstruction of language patterns.
Normotwórcze akty mowy w laudach sejmikowych doby średniopolskiej na przykładzie deklaratywów
Authors: Dawidziak-Kładoczna Małgorzata
Published: January 2024

Resolutions adopted by regional councils in the Middle Polish age are highly valuable to a historian of the Polish language, since they are testimonies to the early Polish official style. The research leads to the conclusion that the repertoire of performative verbs used for verbalising norms was fairly extensive and contained both native words, mainly prefixal verbs (e.g. odkładać, odsyłać, naznaczać, postanowić, ustanowić, umacniać, uwalniać), and genetically Latin lexis (e.g. aprobować, akceptować, deklarować, deputować, libertować, prefigować). All declaratives in the resolutions are realised by means of indicative sentences with the predicate in the 1st person plural, less frequently in the 3rd person singular. The intentions discussed above are only occasionally expressed using impersonal forms, which prevail in the contemporary official texts.
Enhancing Communication Efficiency and Training Time Uniformity in Federated Learning through Multi-Branch Networks and the Oort Algorithm
Authors: Juan Pin-Hung , Wu Ja-Ling
Published: January 2024

In this study, we present a federated learning approach that combines a multi-branch network and the Oort client selection algorithm to improve the performance of federated learning systems. This method successfully addresses the significant issue of non-iid data, a challenge not adequately tackled by the commonly used MFedAvg method. Additionally, one of the key innovations of this research is the introduction of uniformity, a metric that quantifies the disparity in training time amongst participants in a federated learning setup. This novel concept not only aids in identifying stragglers but also provides valuable insights into assessing the fairness and efficiency of the system. The experimental results underscore the merits of the integrated multi-branch network with the Oort client selection algorithm and highlight the crucial role of uniformity in designing and evaluating federated learning systems.
Filtering Organized 3D Point Clouds for Bin Picking Applications
Authors: Franaszek Marek , Rachakonda Prem , Saidi Kamel S.
Published: January 2024

In robotic bin-picking applications, autonomous robot action is guided by a perception system integrated with the robot. Unfortunately, many perception systems output data contaminated by spurious points that have no correspondence to the real physical objects. Such spurious points in 3D data are the outliers that may spoil obstacle avoidance planning executed by the robot controller and impede the segmentation of individual parts in the bin. Thus, they need to be removed. Many outlier removal procedures have been proposed that work very well on unorganized 3D point clouds acquired for different, mostly outdoor, scenarios, but these usually do not transfer well to the manufacturing domain. This paper presents a new filtering technique specifically designed to deal with the organized 3D point cloud acquired from a cluttered scene, which is typical for a bin-picking task. The new procedure was tested on six different datasets (bins filled with different parts) and its performance was compared with the generic statistical outlier removal procedure. The new method outperforms the general procedure in terms of filtering efficacy, especially on datasets heavily contaminated by numerous outliers.
Decentralization Is Good or Not? Defending Consensus in Ethereum 2.0
Authors: Mišić Vojislav B. , Naderi Mighan Soosan , Mišić Jelena , Chang Xiaolin
Published: January 2024

Proof-of-Stake (PoS) protocols are widely accepted as a viable substitute for the Proof-of-Work-based consensus, which is why recent blockchain-based cryptocurrencies and applications, most notably Ethereum 2.0, are using some variant of PoS as the basis for the consensus protocol. However, the implementation of PoS protocols in Ethereum 2.0 are not without its share of problems and vulnerabilities, especially with respect to the malicious behavior of validator nodes. In this paper, we first review the basic tenets of PoS protocols. We then discuss some of the recently described attacks on the Ethereum 2.0 consensus, and we also show that some of the design rationales adopted in PoS implementation—the decentralization of the voting process in particular—have, in actuality, enabled attacks that can be launched at a very low cost to the attacker. We also propose simple remedies that can reduce or eliminate the impact of those attacks and can evaluate the performance of the Ethereum 2.0 consensus when these remedies are applied.
The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor: Impact on the Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Modulation as a Potential Therapy
Authors: Griffith Brian D. , Frankel Timothy L.
Published: January 2024

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ubiquitous nuclear receptor with a broad range of functions, both in tumor cells and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Activation of AhR has been shown to have a carcinogenic effect in a variety of organs, through induction of cellular proliferation and migration, promotion of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and inhibition of apoptosis, among other functions. However, the impact on immune cell function is more complicated, with both pro- and anti-tumorigenic roles identified. Although targeting AhR in cancer has shown significant promise in pre-clinical studies, there has been limited efficacy in phase III clinical trials to date. With the contrasting roles of AhR activation on immune cell polarization, understanding the impact of AhR activation on the tumor immune microenvironment is necessary to guide therapies targeting the AhR. This review article summarizes the state of knowledge of AhR activation on the TME, limitations of current findings, and the potential for modulation of the AhR as a cancer therapy.
Immune Assessment Today: Optimizing and Standardizing Efforts to Monitor Immune Responses in Cancer and Beyond
Authors: Pandey Surya , Cholak Meghan E. , Yadali Rishita , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Tetreault Marie-Pier , Fang Deyu , Pollack Seth M. , Gnjatic Sacha , Obeng Rebecca C. , Lyerly H. Kim , Sonabend Adam M. , Guevara-Patiño José A. , Butterfield Lisa H. , Zhang Bin , Maecker Holden T. , Le Poole I. Caroline
Published: January 2024

As part of a symposium, current and former directors of Immune Monitoring cores and investigative oncologists presented insights into the past, present and future of immune assessment. Dr. Gnjatic presented a classification of immune monitoring technologies ranging from universally applicable to experimental protocols, while emphasizing the need for assay harmonization. Dr. Obeng discussed physiologic differences among CD8 T cells that align with anti-tumor responses. Dr. Lyerly presented the Soldano Ferrone lecture, commemorating the passionate tumor immunologist who inspired many, and covered a timeline of monitoring technology development and its importance to immuno-oncology. Dr. Sonabend presented recent achievements in glioblastoma treatment, accentuating the range of monitoring techniques that allowed him to refine patient selection for clinical trials. Dr. Guevara-Patiño focused on hypoxia within the tumor environment and stressed that T cell viability is not to be confused with functionality. Dr. Butterfield accentuated monitoring of dendritic cell metabolic (dys)function as a determinant for tumor vaccine success. Lectures were interspersed with select abstract presentations. To summarize the concepts, Dr. Maecker from Stanford led an informative forum discussion, pointing towards the future of immune monitoring. Immune monitoring continues to be a guiding light towards effective immunotherapeutic strategies.
Exploring Shear Wave Velocity—NSPT Correlations for Geotechnical Site Characterization: A Review
Authors: Abbas Hasan Ali , Al-Jeznawi Duaa , Al-Janabi Musab Aied Qissab , Bernardo Luís Filipe Almeida , Jacinto Manuel António Sobral Campos
Published: January 2024

Shear wave velocity (Vs) is a critical parameter in geophysical investigations, micro-zonation research, and site classification. In instances where conducting direct tests at specific locations is challenging due to equipment unavailability, limited space, or initial instrumentation costs, it becomes essential to estimate Vs directly, using empirical correlations for effective site characterization. The present review paper explores the correlations of Vs with the standard penetration test (SPT) for geotechnical site characterization. Vs, a critical parameter in geotechnical and seismic engineering, is integral to a wide range of projects, including foundation design and seismic hazard assessment. The current paper provides a detailed analysis of the key findings, implications for geotechnical engineering practice, and future research needs in this area. It emphasizes the importance of site-specific calibration, the impact of geological background, depth-dependent behavior, data quality control, and the integration of Vs data with other geophysical methods. The review underlines the continuous monitoring of Vs values due to potential changes over time. Addressing these insights and gaps in research contributes to the accuracy and safety of geotechnical projects, particularly in seismic-prone regions.
Characterization of Fomes fomentarius s.s. and F. inzengae in Belgian Beech Forests
Authors: Pirronitto Salvatore , Teng Felix , Verheyen Cécile , Gaucet Vincent , Henin Jean-Marc , Jourez Benoit , Schmitz Sophie , Chandelier Anne
Published: January 2024

Real-time PCRs were developed to characterize Fomes fomentarius lineages occurring in the beech forests of the Ardennes (southern Belgium). A collection of F. fomentarius sensu lato isolates was built up in 2020 and 2021 from basidiocarps developing on beech trunks, stumps, or logs. Two of the 148 isolates tested (monokaryotic and dikaryotic) belonged to the species Fomes inzengae, while the other isolates corresponded to the species Fomes fomentarius sensu stricto. As far as we know, this is the first record of Fomes inzengae in Belgium. This fungus was also found in a mature tree not showing any signs of decay. This demonstrates its endophytic nature. Growth tests at different temperatures, as well as wood degradation tests in accordance with standard NBN EN113 showed different behavior between both species. Passive sticky traps were installed during two growing seasons at the two sites where F. inzengae had been reported. Spores were detected at all collection times between April and July, using the specific molecular test developed. Moreover, in 2023, the DNA concentrations measured were 100 times higher than in 2022. The implications of this new species in Belgium is discussed in the context of climate change.
Transcriptome Analysis of Key Genes Involved in the Initiation of Spermatogonial Stem Cell Differentiation
Authors: Lu Xinran , Yin Pengluo , Li Huixia , Gao Weijun , Jia Hua , Ma Wenzhi
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to screen the genes and pathways that are involved in spermatogonia stem cell (SSC) differentiation regulation during the transition from Aundiff to A1. Methods: RNA sequencing was performed to screen differentially expressed genes at 1 d and 2 d after SSC differentiation culture. KEGG pathway enrichment and GO function analysis were performed to reveal the genes and pathways related to the initiation of early SSC differentiation. Results: The GO analysis showed that Rpl21, which regulates cell differentiation initiation, significantly increased after 1 day of SSC differentiation. The expressions of Fn1, Cd9, Fgf2, Itgb1, Epha2, Ctgf, Cttn, Timp2 and Fgfr1, which are related to promoting differentiation, were up-regulated after 2 days of SSC differentiation. The analysis of the KEGG pathway revealed that RNA transport is the most enriched pathway 1 day after SSC differentiation. Hspa2, which promotes the differentiation of male reproductive cells, and Cdkn2a, which participates in the cell cycle, were significantly up-regulated. The p53 pathway and MAPK pathway were the most enriched pathways 2 days after SSC differentiation. Cdkn1a, Hmga2, Thbs1 and Cdkn2a, microRNAs that promote cell differentiation, were also significantly up-regulated. Conclusions: RNA transport, the MAPK pathway and the p53 pathway may play vital roles in early SSC differentiation, and Rpl21, Fn1, Cd9, Fgf2, Itgb1, Epha2, Ctgf, Cttn, Timp2, Fgfr1, Hspa2, Cdkn2a, Cdkn1a, Hmga2 and Thbs1 are involved in the initiation of SSC differentiation. The findings of this study provide a reference for further revelations of the regulatory mechanism of SSC differentiation.
Genomic Variants and Worldwide Epidemiology of Breast Cancer: A Genome-Wide Association Studies Correlation Analysis
Authors: da Costa Nunes Giovanna Gilioli , de Freitas Lilian Marques , Monte Natasha , Gellen Laura Patrícia Albarello , Santos Aline Pasquini , de Moraes Francisco Cezar Aquino , da Costa Ana Caroline Alves , de Lima Milena Cardoso , Fernandes Marianne Rodrigues , dos Santos Sidney Emanuel Batista , dos Santos Ney Pereira Carneiro
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer (BCa) is the most common cancer and leading cause of cancer death among women globally. This can be explained by the genetic factor of this disease. This article aims to correlate the epidemiological data, worldwide incidence, and mortality of BCa with the Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the susceptibility and severity in different populations. Two hundred and forty genetic variants associated with BCa susceptibility/severity were selected from the literature through Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS). The allele frequencies were obtained from the 1000 Genomes Project, and the epidemiological data were obtained from the World Health Organization (WHO). The BCa incidence, mortality rates, and allele frequencies of the variants were evaluated using Pearson’s correlation. Our study demonstrated that 11 SNPs (rs3817578, rs4843437, rs3754934, rs61764370, rs780092, rs2290203, rs10411161, rs6001930, rs16886165, rs8051542 and rs4973768) were significantly correlated with the epidemiological data in different ethnic groups. Seven polymorphisms (rs3817578, rs3754934, rs780092, rs2290203, rs10411161, rs6001930 and rs16886165) were inversely correlated with the incidence rate and four polymorphisms (rs4843437, rs61764370, rs8051542 and rs4973768) were directly correlated with the incidence rate. African and South-East Asian populations have a lower risk of developing BCa when evaluated in terms of genetic factors since they possess variants characterized as protective, as their higher incidence is associated with a lower frequency of BCa cases. The genetic variants investigated here are likely to predispose individuals to BCa. The genetic study described here is promising for implementing personalized strategies to screen for breast cancer in diverse populations.
Hayek and Menger on Money
Authors: Adair-Toteff Christopher
Published: January 2024

Friedrich von Hayek devoted much of his early scholarly writings to the concept of money. That is not that surprising given that he was a member of the Austrian School of Economics. The founder of the school, Carl Menger, had also devoted much of his academic life investigating the nature and function of “Geld” (“money”). What is surprising is that few scholars have investigated Hayek’s and Menger’s writings on money. This essay is intended to help rectify this gap by providing an account of Hayek’s and Menger’s conceptions of money.
Nutritional Criminology: Why the Emerging Research on Ultra-Processed Food Matters to Health and Justice
Authors: Prescott Susan L. , Logan Alan C. , D’Adamo Christopher R. , Holton Kathleen F. , Lowry Christopher A. , Marks John , Moodie Rob , Poland Blake
Published: January 2024

There is mounting concern over the potential harms associated with ultra-processed foods, including poor mental health and antisocial behavior. Cutting-edge research provides an enhanced understanding of biophysiological mechanisms, including microbiome pathways, and invites a historical reexamination of earlier work that investigated the relationship between nutrition and criminal behavior. Here, in this perspective article, we explore how this emergent research casts new light and greater significance on previous key observations. Despite expanding interest in the field dubbed ‘nutritional psychiatry’, there has been relatively little attention paid to its relevancy within criminology and the criminal justice system. Since public health practitioners, allied mental health professionals, and policymakers play key roles throughout criminal justice systems, a holistic perspective on both historical and emergent research is critical. While there are many questions to be resolved, the available evidence suggests that nutrition might be an underappreciated factor in prevention and treatment along the criminal justice spectrum. The intersection of nutrition and biopsychosocial health requires transdisciplinary discussions of power structures, industry influence, and marketing issues associated with widespread food and social inequalities. Some of these discussions are already occurring under the banner of ‘food crime’. Given the vast societal implications, it is our contention that the subject of nutrition in the multidisciplinary field of criminology—referred to here as nutritional criminology—deserves increased scrutiny. Through combining historical findings and cutting-edge research, we aim to increase awareness of this topic among the broad readership of the journal, with the hopes of generating new hypotheses and collaborations.
Rare Breast Cancer Histotypes—A Retrospective Study and Literature Review
Authors: Lam Allan Hoi Kin , Co Michael Tiong Hong , Kwong Ava
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally and can be classified according to various histological subtypes. Current treatment strategies are typically based on the cancer stage and molecular subtypes. This article aims to address the knowledge gap in the understanding of rare breast cancer. A retrospective study was conducted on 4393 breast cancer patients diagnosed from 1992 to 2012, focusing on five rare subtypes: mucinous, invasive lobular, papillary, mixed invasive and lobular, and pure tubular/cribriform carcinomas. Our analysis, supplemented by a literature review, compared patient characteristics, disease characteristics, and survival outcomes of rare breast cancer patients with invasive carcinoma (not otherwise specified (NOS)). Comparative analysis revealed no significant difference in overall survival rates between these rare cancers and the more common invasive carcinoma (NOS). However, mucinous, papillary, and tubular/cribriform carcinomas demonstrated better disease-specific survival. These subtypes presented with similar characteristics such as early detection, less nodal involvement, more hormonal receptor positivity, and less human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) positivity. To conclude, our study demonstrated the diversity in the characteristics and prognosis of rare breast cancer histotypes. Future research should be carried out to investigate histotype-specific management and targeted therapies, given their distinct behavior.
Aotearoa New Zealand Climate and Environmental Journalists: Profiles, Practices, and Perspectives
Authors: Craig Geoffrey
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the profiles, practices, and perspectives of leading climate and environmental journalists from Aotearoa New Zealand. Based upon semi-structured interviews, this study discusses the state of national climate and environmental reportage, as well as possible and desired futures in the round, as responses to the rapidly emerging climate and biodiversity emergency. Within a comparatively small national media ecosystem, the interviews reveal a diversity of backgrounds and degrees of scientific expertise, a collegial relationship amongst the journalists, and a relatively high degree of autonomy in their respective newsrooms. The research notes the journalists believe climate and environmental reportage has increased in Aotearoa New Zealand in recent years although the level of coverage is still insufficient, and there are ongoing struggles to locate climate and environmental journalism within existing news frames. The interview discussion also explores features of reportage such as source relations, workload pressures, and audience engagement. This study explores how journalists negotiate their personal commitments to environmental change within the context of their professional practice. It also discusses the issue of advocacy reportage in climate and environmental journalism and possible critiques of existing journalistic practices and dominant news frames within the contexts of a climate and biodiversity emergency.
The Role of SPEN Mutations as Predictive Biomarkers for Immunotherapy Response in Colorectal Cancer: Insights from a Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Dong Yuanmei , Ye Sisi , Li Huizi , Li Juan , Liu Rongrui , Zhu Yanyun
Published: January 2024

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the leading cause of cancer deaths, and treatment, especially in the metastatic stage, is challenging. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized CRC treatment, but response varies, emphasizing the need for effective biomarkers. This study explores SPEN mutations as potential biomarkers. Methods: Using data from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)—Colorectal Cancer, this research applied bioinformatics tools and statistical analysis to SPEN (Split Ends) mutant and wild-type CRC patients treated with ICIs. Focus areas included mutation rates, immune cell infiltration, and DNA damage response pathways. Results: The SPEN mutation rate was found to be 13.8% (15/109 patients) in the MSKCC cohort and 6.65% (35/526 patients) in the TCGA cohort. Our findings indicate that CRC patients with SPEN mutations had a longer median overall survival (OS) than the wild-type group. These patients also had higher tumor mutational burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI) scores, and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression. SPEN mutants also exhibited increased DNA damage response (DDR) pathway mutations and a greater presence of activated immune cells, like M1 macrophages and CD8+ T cells, while wild-type patients had more resting/suppressive immune cells. Furthermore, distinct mutation patterns, notably with TP53, indicated a unique molecular subtype in SPEN-mutated CRC. Conclusions: We conclude that SPEN mutations might improve ICI efficacy in CRC due to increased immunogenicity and an inflammatory tumor microenvironment. SPEN mutations could be predictive biomarkers for ICI responsiveness, underscoring their value in personalized therapy and highlighting the importance of genomic data in clinical decisions. This research lays the groundwork for future precision oncology studies.
Preparation of Cementitious Materials from Mechanochemically Modified Copper Smelting Slag Compounded with High-Aluminum Fly Ash
Authors: Sheng Dige , Lan Jirong , Du Zhengyu , Ma Yantao , Zhou Min , Hou Haobo
Published: January 2024

Copper smelting slag discharged from mining and high-aluminum fly ash generated during the combustion of coal for energy production are two typical bulk solid wastes, which are necessary to carry out harmless and resourceful treatment. This research proposed an eco-friendly and economical method for the co-consumption of copper smelting slag and high-aluminum fly ash. Cementitious materials were compounded with copper smelting slag and high-aluminum fly ash as the main materials were successfully prepared, with a 28-d compressive strength up to 31.22 MPa, and the heavy metal leaching toxicity was below the limits of the relevant standards. The optimum mechanical properties of the cementitious materials were obtained by altering the material proportion, ball mill rotation speed, and CaO dosage. Under the combined effect of mechanical ball milling at a suitable speed and chemical activation with a certain alkali concentration, the prepared cementitious materials had an initial activation. The pastes of the cementitious materials generated a gel system during the subsequent hydration process. The two steps together improved the mechanical strength of the cured products. The preparation was simple to operate and offered a high stability of heavy metals. The heavy metal contaminants were kept at a low content throughout the process from raw materials to the prepared cured specimens, which was suitable for application in practical environmental remediation projects and could provide effective solutions for ecological environment construction.
Differential Effects of Two Isocaloric Healthy Diets on Postprandial Lipid Responses in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Costabile Giuseppina , Salamone Dominic , Della Pepa Giuseppe , Vitale Marilena , Testa Roberta , Cipriano Paola , Scidà Giuseppe , Rivellese Angela Albarosa , Annuzzi Giovanni , Bozzetto Lutgarda
Published: January 2024

Background. High blood concentrations of triglycerides (TG) in the postprandial period have been shown to be more closely associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) than fasting values in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Dietary changes are the primary determinants of postprandial lipid responses. Methods. We investigated the effects of an isocaloric multifactorial diet, rich in n-3 PUFA, MUFA, fiber, polyphenols, and vitamins, compared to an isocaloric diet, containing the same amount of MUFA, on the postprandial lipid response in T2D individuals. Following a randomized, controlled, parallel group design, 43 (25 male/18 female) T2D individuals were assigned to an isocaloric multifactorial (n = 21) or a MUFA-rich diet (n = 22). At the beginning and after the 8 weeks of dietary intervention, the concentrations of plasma triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol were detected at fasting and over a 4-h test meal with the same composition as the prescribed diet. Results. The concentrations of fasting plasma triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol did not change after both diets. Compared with the MUFA diet, the 8-week multifactorial diet significantly lowered the postprandial response, which was evaluated as the incremental area under the curve (iAUC), of triglycerides by 33% (64 ± 68 vs. 96 ± 50 mmol/L·240 min, mean ± SD, respectively, p = 0.018), total cholesterol by 105% (−51 ± 33 vs. −25 ± 29, p = 0.013), and non-HDL cholesterol by 206% (−39 ± 33 vs. −13 ± 23, p = 0.013). Conclusions. In T2D individuals, a multifactorial diet, characterized by several beneficial components, improved the postprandial lipid response compared to a MUFA diet, generally considered a healthy diet being reduced in saturated fat, and probably contributed to the reduction of cardiovascular risk.
Effectiveness of Palmitoylethanolamide (Levagen+) Compared to a Placebo for Reducing Pain, Duration, and Medication Use during Migraines in Otherwise Healthy Participants—A Double-Blind Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Briskey David , Skinner Rachael , Smith Chelsie , Rao Amanda
Published: January 2024

Migraines are a common neurological disorder that generally affects young to middle-aged adults and females more than males. Various treatment options are available; however, these can cause undesirable side effects. Therefore, alternative treatments with minimal side effects are still being investigated. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a signalling lipid known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Previous prophylactic research has reported PEA supplementation to decrease pain associated with migraines. Upon commencement of migraine symptoms, participants were supplemented with either 600 mg of PEA (Levagen+) or a placebo (maltodextrin). Once a dose was taken, participants recorded a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain every 30 min for 4 h or until the migraine resolved. If the migraine had not resolved 2 h post-dose, participants were instructed to take a second dose. Levagen+ supplementation resolved more headaches after 2- and 8 h, had a lower VAS for pain score at 1.5 and 4 h, and reduced rescue medication use significantly more than a placebo. No adverse events were reported in either group. Overall, PEA was safe and effective in reducing migraine pain, duration, and medication use in an otherwise healthy adult population.
Analysis of Green Transformation and Driving Factors of Household Consumption Patterns in China from the Perspective of Carbon Emissions
Authors: Shang Mei , Shen Xinxin , Guo Daoyan
Published: January 2024

Over the years, the household sector has become the main source of carbon emissions. Thus, it is crucial to study the green transformation of household consumption patterns (HCPs) and its driving factors from the perspective of carbon emissions (CEs). This study used the Tapio decoupling method to analyze the green transformation of HCPs, employed the logarithmic mean divisia index (LMDI) method to find the driving factors of green transformation of HCPs, and conducted marginal effect analysis to identify the marginal effects of the major driving factors of green transformation of HCPs, based on the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) database from 2012 to 2018. It was found through statistical analysis that dominant types of direct HCPs included electricity and fuel, and dominant types of indirect HCPs included necessities, health, transportation, and education. The results of empirical analysis indicated that direct household consumption structure and the per capita residential area promoted the green transformation of HCPs, while direct household per square meter residential consumption and per capita net income inhibited it. Furthermore, other factors had varying positive or negative impacts on the green transformation of HCPs, depending on regions, income levels, and urban–rural areas. The results of marginal effect analysis suggested that the marginal effects of residential area on per capita household carbon emissions (HCEs) present a trend from increasing to decreasing, while the marginal effect of household income on per capita HCEs presents an increasing trend. However, the marginal effect of household size on per capita HCEs presents a decreasing trend only for the low-income group and the western region when household size increased from five to six persons. This paper enriches the research on the green transformation of HCPs, and provides references for the formulation of green transformation policies for HCPs in different regions, income levels, and urban–rural areas.
Assessing the Role of Sustainability Disclosure on Firms’ Financial Performance: Evidence from the Energy Sector of Belt and Road Initiative Countries
Authors: Zhou Dejun , Saeed Ummar Faruk , Agyemang Andrew Osei
Published: January 2024

This study examines the influence of sustainability disclosure on a firm’s financial performance in the energy sector, taking into account the role of ownership concentration as a moderating factor. This study utilized secondary data from 239 energy companies from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations from 2009 to 2022. This study employed the Common Correlated Effect Mean Group and the Pooled Mean Group estimators for the analysis. To determine which component of sustainability disclosure influences a firm’s financial performance, this study divided the measurement of sustainability into three themes: environment, social, and governance. The findings revealed a positive relationship between environmental disclosure and financial performance. Similarly, we found a positive relationship between social disclosure and financial performance. However, governance disclosure does not contribute to financial performance. Furthermore, we found that ownership concentration positively moderates the association between environmental disclosure and financial performance, as well as social disclosure and financial performance. The results suggest that energy firms in developing countries should prioritize disclosing their environmental and social policies to ensure long-term financial performance.
A Comprehensive Study of Biochar Yield and Quality Concerning Pyrolysis Conditions: A Multifaceted Approach
Authors: Altıkat Alperay , Alma Mehmet Hakkı , Altıkat Aysun , Bilgili Mehmet Emin , Altıkat Sefa
Published: January 2024

In this research, we investigated the yields of biochar, bio-oil, and synthesis gas under various pyrolysis conditions, as well as their impact on the elemental composition, FTIR, EDX, SEM, and HCV values of biochar. This study utilized three different pyrolysis temperatures (400 °C, 500 °C, 600 °C), two holding times (30 and 60 min), and two N2 gas flow rates (0.2 and 0.5 L min−1). We observed that an increase in pyrolysis temperature led to a decrease in the yields of biochar and bio-oil, while synthesis gas yield increased, as expected. Additionally, a higher gas flow rate resulted in a reduction of biochar yield from 34.07% to 32.72%. A longer residence time diminished the bio-oil yield but increased the synthesis gas yield. The FTIR, EDX, and elemental analysis of biochar produced at a pyrolysis temperature of 600 °C, with a 60-min holding time and a 0.2 L min−1 N2 gas flow rate, indicated maximized carbon content. Moreover, a more porous structure was observed at higher pyrolysis temperatures. The research also revealed that increases in pyrolysis temperature, residence time, and gas flow rate enhanced the energy content of the biochar.
The European Green Deal: Determination of the Energy Parameters of the String Husking Device in Buckwheat Processing
Authors: Samoichuk Kyrylo , Fuchadzhy Natalia , Verkholantseva Valentyna , Horetska Iryna , Hutsol Taras , Prylipko Tetiana , Glowacki Szymon , Nurek Tomasz , Sorokin Dmytro
Published: January 2024

The priority tasks of grain production sustainability are solving the problem of the significant total energy consumption of the full production cycle and adapting the existing equipment to use as part of equipment sets of low and medium productivity. A promising way to solve these problems is the development and implementation of a string husking device. Its use will significantly reduce the energy consumption of buckwheat groat production due to the use of an energy-efficient husking mechanism. In addition, the string device makes it possible to eliminate the operation of the preliminary sorting of grain into fractions from the technological line of grain production, which additionally reduces the energy consumption of the line and makes it possible to use the husker in lines of low, medium and high productivity. Reducing the specific energy consumption of buckwheat production corresponds to the “European Green Deal” concept and makes production more resource-efficient and competitive. This way, two out of the three pillars of sustainability are improved: environmental and economic. The design principle of carrying out the operation of removing the shell from the buckwheat grain in the developed string husking device is substantiated. Theoretical studies were carried out using an analysis and synthesis of the mechanics of destruction and the method of determining the moments of inertia of homogeneous bodies relative to their own central axes during the husking of buckwheat by impact. Experimental studies were carried out using an experimental string husking device. The conducted analytical studies made it possible to determine the dependence between the specific energy consumption of the husking process and the physical and mechanical characteristics of buckwheat, as well as the structural parameters of the string husking device and the kinematic indicators of its operation. As a result of experimental studies, it had been established that the specific energy consumption of the buckwheat husking process in the developed device is 44–47% lower than the equipment currently used for buckwheat husking, and is 0.491–0.498 Wh/kg.
People-Oriented: A Framework for Evaluating the Level of Green Space Provision in the Life Circle from a Supply and Demand Perspective: A Case Study of Gulou District, Nanjing, China
Authors: Xia Hancheng , Yin Rui , Xia Tianyu , Zhao Bing , Qiu Bing
Published: January 2024

Green space resources, in the context of urbanisation, cannot meet the actual needs of residents well, and the study of the balance of green space resource allocation based on the relationship between supply and demand is an urgent problem to be solved. This study quantitatively evaluates the green space supply level from four dimensions by constructing a framework for assessment in the community life circle. It also evaluates the matching of green space supply and demand, resource distribution fairness, and distribution equilibrium under group differentiation through the supply–demand coupling matrix, the Gini coefficient, and the Kruskal–Wallis H non-parametric rank-sum test, respectively. This study shows that: (1) A significant spatial imbalance exists in green space resource allocation in community life circles in different dimensions. (2) The comprehensive green space supply level in the community life circle matched the total demand of residents to a low degree. (3) There was significant inequality in green space resource allocation within the community life circle (the Gini coefficient of each evaluation perspective was >0.4). Based on the study results, we were able to identify community life circles with spatial mismatches, different supply and demand, and other green space resource allocation problems, which is of great significance to urban green space research and planning practice under the ‘green justice’ framework.
Towards Refining Bio-Inspired Hydro-Actuated Building Facades by Emphasising the Importance of Hybrid Adaptability
Authors: Khosromanesh Raheleh
Published: January 2024

In anticipation of the growing demand for energy efficiency, research is underway on the advancement of the next generation of bio-inspired adaptive systems for multi-stimuli-responsive building envelopes. At this point, it is vital to perceive how materials are altered by various stimuli. To address this challenge, I conceptualise the following question: how can hydro-actuated systems become multi-responsive systems through combining bio-responsive mechanisms? To begin to imagine these actuators, I take inspiration from bio-inspired mechanisms to chart viable avenues/principles that can lead to scalable applications. Hydro-actuated facades can help decrease energy consumption in buildings because of the advantage of using bio-inspired materials and smart mechanisms derived from natural phenomena that occur on the scale of plants or animals. Most hydro-actuated facades are restricted in terms of their responses to a single stimulus, which makes them ineffective for building envelopes due to their inability to respond to other stimuli. The main aim of this study is to define challenges concerning hydro-actuated facades and develop principles to create a multi-stimuli-responsive system that senses and actuates passively. In this regard, by introducing a strategy of combining natural mechanisms in the context of architectural envelopes, this paper presents extra insight into the connection between building facades and environmental mechanisms.
Sustainable Water Management of Drip-Irrigated Asparagus under Conditions of Central Poland: Evapotranspiration, Water Needs and Rainfall Deficits
Authors: Rolbiecki Stanisław , Rolbiecki Roman , Sadan Hicran A. , Jagosz Barbara , Kasperska-Wołowicz Wiesława , Kanecka-Geszke Ewa , Pal-Fam Ferenc , Atilgan Atilgan , Krakowiak-Bal Anna , Kuśmierek-Tomaszewska Renata , Łangowski Ariel
Published: January 2024

Water is a valuable yet scarce resource in agriculture. Optimizing crop production relies on irrigation, but within the framework of sustainable agriculture, efforts should prioritize reducing irrigation water usage. Unfortunately, climate change increases plant water requirements, consequently heightening the need for irrigation. The aim of the research was to estimate the water needs of asparagus during the fern growth period (21 June–31 August) using the Blaney–Criddle method. The study also aimed to determine trends in changing water needs and estimate precipitation deficits. Calculations were carried out for the years 1981–2020 across four provinces in central Poland. The research indicated that water needs varied between 233 mm and 242 mm, depending on the province. Over the forty-year period, all provinces displayed an increasing trend in water needs, with a rise of 3.1 mm to 6.2 mm per decade. Between 21 June and 31 August, rainfall deficits occurred with varying intensity in all provinces during normal, medium dry and very dry years. The values of water needs and rainfall deficit, calculated as a result of the research, are of key importance in the design, construction, and management of drip irrigation systems for asparagus plantations in central Poland.
Public Policies and Social Actions to Prevent the Loss of the Chiquitano Dry Forest
Authors: Maillard Oswaldo , Pinto-Herrera Carla , Vides-Almonacid Roberto , Pozo Paola , Belaunde Claudia , Mielich Nicolas , Azurduy Huascar , Cuellar Rosa Leny
Published: January 2024

Despite more than two decades of efforts made to prevent the loss of the Chiquitano Dry Forest on the Bolivian side, deforestation and forest fragmentation driven by agricultural expansion, uncontrolled settlement and forest fires have continued putting its ecological integrity at high risk. Currently, this unique forest is severely vulnerable and under considerable pressure, which should generate worldwide attention and concern, considering its importance in terms of biodiversity and climate. In this opinion piece, we address the approach of policies and social actions to reverse the situation using the experiences of locals.
Exploring Leadership Styles to Foster Sustainability in Construction Projects: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Afzal Fatima , Tumpa Roksana Jahan
Published: January 2024

Background: The construction sector has faced significant challenges in addressing the world’s pressing crises, such as climate change, poverty, and human well-being. Ensuring sustainability in construction projects is pivotal, and leadership plays a crucial role in embedding sustainable practices. Objectives: This research aims to identify an effective leadership style for implementing sustainable practices in construction projects through a systematic literature review (SLR). Methods: A comprehensive SLR was conducted, focusing on leadership in sustainable construction. The review process included identifying, screening, and analysing relevant literature. Thirty-one articles were meticulously selected and evaluated to understand the relationship between leadership styles and sustainable practices in construction. Results: The findings suggest that no single leadership style is universally applicable in all contexts within sustainable construction. However, transformational leadership stands out for its benefits in facilitating sustainable practices. The review provides insights into various leadership approaches and their effectiveness in different scenarios. Conclusions: The study concludes that while a universal leadership style for sustainable construction does not exist, transformational leadership is generally more effective. This finding is significant for construction project managers aiming to implement sustainable practices, providing them guidance on the leadership styles that are most likely to yield successful outcomes in their projects.