bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Synthesis of Mesquite-Gum-Stabilized Gold Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications: Physicochemical Properties and Biocompatibility Assessment
Authors: Pinilla-Torres Ana M. , Sanchez-Dominguez Celia N. , Basilio-Bernabe Karla , Carrion-Garcia Paola Y. , Roacho-Perez Jorge A. , Garza-Treviño Elsa N. , Gallardo-Blanco Hugo , Sanchez-Dominguez Margarita
Published: August 2023

Using cytotoxic reducing and stabilizing agents in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) limits their use in biomedical applications. One strategy to overcome this problem is using “green” synthesis methodologies using polysaccharides. In the present study, we propose a green methodology for synthetizing AuNPs with mesquite gum (MG) as a reducing agent and steric stabilizer in Gold(III) chloride trihydrate aqueous solutions to obtain biocompatible nanoparticles that can be used for biomedical applications. Through this method, AuNPs can be produced without using elevated temperatures or pressures. For synthetizing gold nanoparticles coated with mesquite gum (AuNPs@MG), Gold(III) chloride trihydrate was used as a precursor, and mesquite gum was used as a stabilizing and reducing agent. The AuNPs obtained were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, and FT-IR spectroscopy. The stability in biological media (phosphate buffer solution), cytotoxicity (MTT assay, hematoxylin, and eosin staining), and hemocompatibility (Hemolysis assay) were measured at different concentrations and exposure times. The results showed the successful synthesis of AuNPs@MG with sizes ranging from 3 to 30 nm and a zeta potential of −31 mV. The AuNPs@MG showed good colloidal stability in PBS (pH 7.4) for up to 24 h. Finally, cytotoxicity assays showed no changes in cell metabolism or cell morphology. These results suggest that these gold nanoparticles have potential biomedical applications because of their low cytotoxicity and hemotoxicity and improved stability at a physiological pH.
Self-Assembled Polymers for Gastrointestinal Tract Targeted Delivery through the Oral Route: An Update
Authors: Yang Xiaoyu , Yang Yang , Yu Haiyan , Zhou Yi
Published: August 2023

Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) targeted drug delivery systems have gained growing attention as potential carriers for the treatment of different diseases, especially local colonic diseases. They have lower side effects as well as enhanced oral delivery efficiency because of various therapeutics that are vulnerable to acidic and enzymatic degradation in the upper GIT are protected. The novel and unique design of self-assembled nanostructures, such as micelles, hydrogels, and liposomes, which can both respond to external stimuli and be further modified, making them ideal for specific, targeted medical needs and localized drug delivery treatments through the oral route. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize and critically discuss the pharmaceutical significance and therapeutic feasibility of a wide range of natural and synthetic biomaterials for efficient drug targeting to GIT using the self-assembly method. Among various types of biomaterials, natural and synthetic polymer-based nanostructures have shown promising targeting potential due to their innate pH responsiveness, sustained and controlled release characteristics, and microbial degradation in the GIT that releases the encapsulated drug moieties.
Chitosan-Based Electrochemical Sensors for Pharmaceuticals and Clinical Applications
Authors: Bounegru Alexandra Virginia , Bounegru Iulian
Published: August 2023

Chitosan (CTS), a biocompatible and multifunctional material derived from chitin, has caught researchers’ attention in electrochemical detection due to its unique properties. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the recent progress and applications of CTS-based electrochemical sensors in the analysis of pharmaceutical products and other types of samples, with a particular focus on the detection of medicinal substances. The review covers studies and developments from 2003 to 2023, highlighting the remarkable properties of CTS, such as biocompatibility, chemical versatility, and large surface area, that make it an excellent candidate for sensor modification. Combining CTS with various nanomaterials significantly enhances the detection capabilities of electrochemical sensors. Various types of CTS-based sensors are analyzed, including those utilizing carbon nanomaterials, metallic nanoparticles, conducting polymers, and molecularly imprinted CTS. These sensors exhibit excellent sensitivity, selectivity, and stability, enabling the precise and reliable detection of medications. The manufacturing strategies used for the preparation of CTS-based sensors are described, the underlying detection mechanisms are elucidated, and the integration of CTS sensors with transducer systems is highlighted. The prospects of CTS-based electrochemical sensors are promising, with opportunities for miniaturization, simultaneous detection, and real-time monitoring applications.
Sodium Trimetaphosphate Crosslinked Starch Films Reinforced with Montmorillonite
Authors: Noulis Konstantinos , Frangopoulos Theofilos , Arampatzidou Athanasia , Tsekmes Lazaros , Marinopoulou Anna , Goulas Athanasios , Karageorgiou Vassilis
Published: August 2023

Synthetic polymers are the main food packaging material, although they are nonbiodegradable and their recycling process is expensive. A biodegradable, eco-friendly material, with high availability and low cost, such as starch, is a promising solution for the production of films for food packaging. To enhance starch film mechanical and barrier properties, nanoclays have been incorporated within the film matrix. Crosslinking is a well-established method to modify starch properties, but it has not been investigated in combination with nanoclay addition. In the present study, films were developed with starch that was crosslinked through the addition of 5, 15, and 40% wt. sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP) based on dry starch weight. To investigate the interaction between crosslinking and nanoclay addition, montmorillonite (MMT) was added at a 10.5% wt. concentration based on dry starch weight. Experimental data revealed a synergistic effect between STMP crosslinking and MMT addition regarding film thickness, elongation at break, color properties, and opacity. Regarding barrier properties, MMT addition negated the effect of STMP crosslinking, while, in the case of moisture content, it did not alter the effect of STMP crosslinking. Finally, in the case of tensile strength, a synergistic effect followed by a negative interaction was observed. In conclusion, the addition of MMT can potentially enhance, alongside crosslinking, some properties of the films, while other properties are not affected any more than just by crosslinking.
Silver Ions Drive Ordered Self-Assembly Mechanisms and Inherent Properties of Lignin Nanoflowers
Authors: Chen Kai , Liu Encheng , Yuan Shengrong , Zhang Baoquan
Published: August 2023

Designing anisotropic lignin-based particles and promoting the high-value utilization of lignin have nowadays drawn much attention from scientists. However, systematic studies addressing the self-assembly mechanisms of anisotropic lignin-based particles are scarce. In this work, an interaction including the electrostatic forces and chelating forces between lignin and Ag+ was regulated via carboxymethylation modification. Subsequently, the aggregation morphology of carboxymethylated lignin in a Ag+ solution was observed via SEM. The result showed that a large number of Ag+ intercalated into the lignin molecules when the grafting degree of the carboxyl groups increased from 0.17 mmol/g to 0.53 mmol/g, which caused the lignin molecules to gradually transform from disordered blocks to ordered layers. Dynamics research indicated that the adsorption process of Ag+ in carboxymethylated lignin conforms to the Pseudo-first-order kinetic model. The saturated adsorption amount of Ag+ in the carboxymethylated lignin reached 1981.7 mg/g when the grafting rate of carboxyl groups increased to 0.53 mmol/g, which then fully intercalated into lignin molecules and formed a layered structure. The thermodynamic parameters showed that the thermal adsorption process conforms to the Langmuir model, which indicates that Ag+ is monolayer-adsorbed and intercalated into lignin molecules. Meanwhile, the ΔH values are more than 0, which suggests that this adsorption process is a endothermic reaction and that a higher temperature is conducive to an adsorption reaction. Therefore, self-assembly of lignin in a Ag+ solution under 70 °C is more conducive to the formation of a nanoflower structure, which is consistent with our experimental result. Finally, pH-responsive Pickering emulsions were successfully prepared using a lignin-based nanoflowers, which demonstrated their potential as a catalytic platform in the interface catalysis field. This work offers a deeper understanding into the formation mechanism of anisotropic lignin-based nanoflowers and hopes to be helpful for designing and preparing anisotropic lignin-based particles.
Highly Efficient One-Pot Synthesis of Hexakis(m-phenyleneimine) Macrocyle Cm6 and the Thermostimulated Self-Healing Property through Dynamic Covalent Chemistry
Authors: Matsumoto Toshihiko
Published: August 2023

Highly efficient one-pot synthesis of hexakis(m-phenyleneimine) macrocycle Cm6 from acetalprotected AB-type monomer, m-aminobenzaldehyde diethylacetal, was successfully achieved based on imine dynamic covalent chemistry and precipitation-driven cyclization. The structure of Cm6 in the solid state was determined using CP/MAS NMR, X-ray single crystallographic analysis, and WAXD. Macrocycle Cm6 is composed of six phenylene and imine bonds facing the same direction, with nitrogen atoms arranged on the outside of the ring, and has a chair conformation, as predicted from DFT calculation. The macrocycle forms π-stacked columnar aggregates and hexagonally closest-packed structure. The cyclization process was investigated using MALDI-TOF MS and NMR. A mechanism of precipitation-driven cyclization based on imine dynamic covalent chemistry and π-stacked columnar aggregation is proposed. Both the nature of imine linkage and the shape anisotropy of the macrocycle played an important role in the single one-pot synthesis. The water-mediated mutual conversion between macrocycle Cm6 and linear oligomers driven by thermal stimulation was analyzed using MALDI-TOF MS and GPC methods. Macrocycle Cm6 with a dynamic covalent imine bond exhibited self-healing properties when stimulated using heat.
Predictors of Treatment Response in Patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression: Outcomes of a Randomized Trial
Authors: Khalid Karniza , Ang Wei Chern , Mohd. Nazli Aimi Izwani , Jamaluddin Ruzita , Rizvi Syed A. A.
Published: August 2023

Objective: This report aims to compare the effectiveness between electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and transcranial direct stimulation (tDCS) among patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and the associated factors. Methods: This was a secondary data analysis of a randomized, controlled, open-label trial conducted from 1 July 2018, to 31 December 2018. The dataset of 90 patients included in the study was retrieved from Mendeley Data. Patients with TRD were randomized 1:1 into either receiving ECT or tDCS. A good treatment response was determined as an improvement from the Hamilton Depression (HAM-D) baseline score at a rate of more than or equal to 50% at the end of a 2-week intervention. A mixed-effect logistic regression was performed to explain the hierarchical data structure of predictors to successful treatment outcome. Results: The largest magnitude of change was consistently observed in the ECT treatment arm across both HAM-D score and the clinical global impression severity scale (CGI-S) scale (p < 0.001). Lower baseline HAM-D scores (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.58, 0.92), lower baseline CGI-S scale (OR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.17, 0.55), and ECT as the choice of treatment modality (OR: 14.0, 95% CI: 5.08, 38.58) independently predicted successful therapy among TRD patients, while modelling with multiple logistic regression determined that low socio-economic status (aOR: 20.01, 95% CI: 1.89, 211.47), ECT (aOR: 31.7, 95% CI: 6.32, 159.0) and a lower baseline CGI-S scale (aOR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.57) were significantly predictive of a positive treatment outcome among patients with TRD. Conclusions: ECT was more effective in alleviating depressive symptoms in TRD as compared to tDCS.
The Automated Detection of Fusarium Wilt on Phalaenopsis Using VIS-NIR and SWIR Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Shih Min-Shao , Chang Kai-Chun , Chou Shao-An , Liu Tsang-Sen , Ouyang Yen-Chieh
Published: August 2023

Phalaenopsis, an essential flower for export, is significantly affected by fusarium wilt, which impacts its export quality. Hyperspectral imaging technology offers the potential to detect fusarium wilt on Phalaenopsis. The goal of this study was to establish an automated platform for the rapid detection of fusarium wilt on Phalaenopsis. In this research, the automatic target generation process (ATGP) method was employed to identify outliers in the hyperspectral spectrum. Subsequently, the Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM) method was utilized to detect signals similar to the outliers. To suppress background noise and extract the region of interest (ROI), the Constrained Energy Minimization (CEM) method was implemented. For ROI classification and detection, a deep neural network (DNN), a support vector machine (SVM), and a Random Forest Classifier (RFC) were employed. Model performance was evaluated using three-dimensional receiver operating characteristics (3D ROC), and the automated identification system was integrated into hyperspectrometers. The proposed system achieved an accuracy of 95.77% with a total detection time of 3380 ms ± 86.36 ms, proving to be a practical and effective tool for detecting fusarium wilt on Phalaenopsis in the industry.
Intraseasonal Reversal of Winter Temperature Anomalies in Eastern China in Early 2022 and Its Possible Causes
Authors: Zhang Keyu , Shi Chunhua , Zheng Ziqian , Wang Yiwei , Shi Tongtong
Published: August 2023

A remarkable intraseasonal reversal of temperature anomaly is witnessed in eastern China in early 2022, characterized by a warm January and a cold February. ERA5 daily reanalysis data, multiple regression and the Linear Baroclinic Model (LBM) are employed to investigate the characteristics and causes of this abnormal temperature Pattern. The findings indicate that: (1) The two Rossby wave trains along the south and north westerly jets over Eurasia have synergistic impacts on middle and high latitudes. In January, the south branch Rossby wave train exhibited a positive phase, coinciding with a negative phase in the north branch wave train. As a result, the south trough strengthens, while the north trough weakens, leading to anomalous warm advection that warms eastern China. In February, the phases of these two Rossby waves are reversed, causing anomalous cold advection as the southern trough diminishes and the northern trough intensifies, resulting in colder conditions in eastern China. (2) Tropical convection activity weakens in January, whereas it intensifies in February in the northeast Indian Ocean. The weakening of the East Asian trough as a result of the convective latent heat anomalies caused an anticyclonic circulation over the Korean Peninsula in January through the Pacific-Japan teleconnection-like pattern, which is necessary for the maintenance of warm anomalies. Conversely, increased convective activity in February induces cyclonic circulation, deepening the East Asian trough over the Korean Peninsula and contributing to the persistence of cold anomalies. (3) The Rossby wave trains along the two westerly jets and the tropical convective activity in the northeastern Indian Ocean work in tandem, simultaneously strengthening or weakening the East Asian trough. Consequently, the East Asian trough weakens in January and strengthens in February.
Quad-Pol SAR Data Reconstruction from Dual-Pol SAR Mode Based on a Multiscale Feature Aggregation Network
Authors: Deng Junwu , Zhou Peng , Li Mingdian , Li Haoliang , Chen Siwei
Published: August 2023

Polarimetric synthetic aperture radar (PolSAR) is widely used in remote sensing applications due to its ability to obtain full-polarization information. Compared to the quad-pol SAR, the dual-pol SAR mode has a wider observation swath and is more common in most SAR systems. The goal of reconstructing quad-pol SAR data from the dual-pol SAR mode is to learn the contextual information of dual-pol SAR images and the relationships among polarimetric channels. This work is dedicated to addressing this issue, and a multiscale feature aggregation network has been established to achieve the reconstruction task. Firstly, multiscale spatial and polarimetric features are extracted from the dual-pol SAR images using the pretrained VGG16 network. Then, a group-attention module (GAM) is designed to progressively fuse the multiscale features extracted by different layers. The fused feature maps are interpolated and aggregated with dual-pol SAR images to form a compact feature representation, which integrates the high- and low-level information of the network. Finally, a three-layer convolutional neural network (CNN) with a 1 × 1 convolutional kernel is employed to establish the mapping relationship between the feature representation and polarimetric covariance matrices. To evaluate the quad-pol SAR data reconstruction performance, both polarimetric target decomposition and terrain classification are adopted. Experimental studies are conducted on the ALOS/PALSAR and UAVSAR datasets. The qualitative and quantitative experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method. The reconstructed quad-pol SAR data can better sense buildings’ double-bounce scattering changes before and after a disaster. Furthermore, the reconstructed quad-pol SAR data of the proposed method achieve a 97.08% classification accuracy, which is 1.25% higher than that of dual-pol SAR data.
Bitemporal Remote Sensing Image Change Detection Network Based on Siamese-Attention Feedback Architecture
Authors: Yin Hongyang , Ma Chong , Weng Liguo , Xia Min , Lin Haifeng
Published: August 2023

Recently, deep learning-based change detection methods for bitemporal remote sensing images have achieved promising results based on fully convolutional neural networks. However, due to the inherent characteristics of convolutional neural networks, if the previous block fails to correctly segment the entire target, erroneous predictions might accumulate in the subsequent blocks, leading to incomplete change detection results in terms of structure. To address this issue, we propose a bitemporal remote sensing image change detection network based on a Siamese-attention feedback architecture, referred to as SAFNet. First, we propose a global semantic module (GSM) on the encoder network, aiming to generate a low-resolution semantic change map to capture the changed objects. Second, we introduce a temporal interaction module (TIM), which is built through each encoding and decoding block, using the feature feedback between two temporal blocks to enhance the network’s perception ability of the entire changed target. Finally, we propose two auxiliary modules—the change feature extraction module (CFEM) and the feature refinement module (FRM)—which are further used to learn the fine boundaries of the changed target. The deep model we propose produced satisfying results in dual-temporal remote sensing image change detection. Extensive experiments on two remote sensing image change detection datasets demonstrate that the SAFNet algorithm exhibits state-of-the-art performance.
The Additional Diagnostic Value of Electrocardiogram and Strain Patterns in Transplanted Patients
Authors: Stefani Laura , Orlandi Goffredo , Corsi Marco , Falconi Edoardo , Palazzo Roberto , Pellegrino Alessio , Modesti Pietro Amedeo
Published: August 2023

Background: Transplanted patients are frail individuals who may be affected by diastolic dysfunction, leading to a decrease in exercise tolerance. Previous studies have reported that certain ECG and echocardiographic parameters (such as the P-wave interval, PQ interval, P-wave dispersion, Tend-P interval, QTc interval, and strain) can support the diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction when the ejection fraction is preserved. This study aimed to examine the potential diagnostic contribution of specific ECG and deformation parameters in transplanted recipients, who are at a high risk of heart failure. Materials and Methods: A group of 33 transplanted subjects (17 renal and 16 liver) were categorized using two scores for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Additionally, they underwent evaluation based on ECG parameters (P-wave interval, PQ interval, Pwave dispersion, and Tend-P QTc) and echocardiographic deformation parameters (strain and twist). The Student’s t-test was used for statistical analysis. Results: The two scores identified different numbers of excludable and not excludable subjects potentially affected by HFpEF. The not excludable group presented ECG parameters with significantly higher values (P-wave, PQ interval, posterior wall diastole, and Tend-P, all with p ≤ 0.05) and significantly lower 4D strain and twist values (p < 0.05) Conclusions: There is evidence for a significant diagnostic contribution of additional ECG and echo strain parameters in an early phase of diastolic dysfunction in subjects potentially affected by HFpEF.
An Interactive Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach for Autonomous Vehicles and Distributed Resources Based on Logistic Systems: Challenges for a Sustainable Future
Authors: Gamal Abduallah , Abdel-Basset Mohamed , Hezam Ibrahim M. , Sallam Karam M. , Hameed Ibrahim A.
Published: August 2023

The autonomous vehicle (AV) is one of the emerging technologies of the new age that has the potential to restructure transportation infrastructure. AVs are able to sense their surroundings and move around with control and self-sufficiency. AVs can contribute towards reducing traffic congestion on the roads, improving the quality of life, and achieving the highest levels of traffic safety. Thus, this type of vehicle can be integrated into the logistics industry. Due to the presence of several AVs, selecting a standard and efficient AV for logistics planning is a great challenge. The selection of an AV depends on many conflicting and essential criteria. Given its efficiency and reliability in dealing with conflicting criteria, a comprehensive multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach was applied to solve the problem of selecting the optimal AV. However, the MCDM selection process is based on human judgment, which can be ambiguous. Accordingly, uncertainty was handled using type-2 neutrosophic numbers (T2NN). Initially, the method based on the removal effects of criteria (MEREC) was extended under T2NN and employed to assess and prioritize criteria. Then, the combined compromise solution (CoCoSo) method was extended under T2NN and applied to rank the candidate substitutions. To confirm the feasibility of the applied approach, an illustrative case study of four AVs was introduced. A sensitivity analysis was performed by changing the weights of the criteria and some other parameters to confirm the validity and stability of the proposed approach. In addition, a comparison analysis with other MCDM approaches was conducted to show the effectiveness and reliability of the applied approach. This research provides useful information for policymakers in the field of logistics. Finally, the results indicate that the velocity of AVs criterion is the most influential criterion in the selection of an intelligent AV.
The Factors Influencing 21st Century Skills and Problem-Solving Skills: The Acceptance of Blackboard as Sustainable Education
Authors: Alturki Uthman , Aldraiweesh Ahmed
Published: August 2023

This study aims to investigate the mediating roles of students’ self-efficacy and problem-solving in the relationships between independent variables with the Blackboard System (BS) and performance impact in order to better understand how they relate to one another. This is carried out to fully appreciate the potential benefits of using BS in education and to provide detailed explanations of how BS usage may improve academic attainment. The purpose of this study was to discover the essential factors that determine how college students use BS. This study examined the effects of a number of parameters discovered in the literature about using Blackboard as sustainable education in higher education using the students’ self-efficacy and problem-solving abilities. In total, 396 King Saud university students completed a written questionnaire that served as the source of the data. Structural equation modeling with squares was used to examine the data (Amos-SEM). The results showed that control variables are the main factors influencing learners’ adoption of 21st century skills by using Blackboard as a sustainable education model and, consequently, the effectiveness of organizing training system integration. While students were not entirely in agreement with the rational reflection for problem-solving skills, the results of students’ self-efficacy and issue skills show a good impact on their academic performance in colleges and universities. To foster students’ self-efficacy and problem-solving skills, as well as their use of BS in higher education teaching processes, the study’s findings provide essential information on how colleges and universities may improve students’ acceptance of 21st century skills by using Blackboard Systems as a sustainable education model.
Exploring the Role of Latin American Universities in the Implementation of Transformative Innovation Policy
Authors: Villa-Enciso Eliana , García-Mosquera Jhonjali , Valencia-Arias Alejandro , Medina-Valderrama Carlos Javier
Published: August 2023

Transformative Innovation Policy (TIP) is a new paradigm in science, technology, and innovation policy that seeks to produce a transition to sustainable development. In this paradigm, universities are crucial actors in the dynamics of science, technology, and innovation, but their role in the implementation of TIP should be defined. The objective of this article is to contribute to the understanding of the ideal role of Latin American universities in the implementation of TIP. Therefore—to describe and analyze the concepts of university and TIP in Latin America—this case study examines the co-creation of a public policy of science, technology, and innovation by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in that region. This article underscores the vital role of universities in promoting transformative innovation that fosters social inclusion and sustainability. To achieve this goal, structural policy changes should be implemented, and different stakeholders (including researchers, students, and civil society) should be actively engaged. This paper also highlights the importance of addressing socio-economic, cultural, political, cognitive, and environmental issues faced by marginalized communities. By embracing the principles of transitions theory and prioritizing transformative innovation, universities can make significant contributions towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Impact of Economic Growth, Natural Resources, Urbanization and Biocapacity on the Ecological Footprint: The Case of Turkey
Authors: Ullah Assad , Tekbaş Murat , Doğan Mesut
Published: August 2023

This study investigated the impact of natural resources, urbanization, biological capacity, and economic growth (EG) on the ecological footprint (EFP) in Turkey between 1970 and 2018. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method was used to investigate the short- and long-term effects. The findings indicate that EG and biological capacity increase the EFP in both the short and long term. In addition to these results, the long-term results show that the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis is valid for Turkey and that urbanization has a negative impact on the EFP. The Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) applied to determine the relationship between the variables reveals that, in the short term, unilateral causalities exist from EG to the EFP, from urbanization to economic growth, and from biological capacity to EG. The long-term causality results show a bidirectional causality relationship between the EFP, urbanization and biological capacity. In light of these findings, important policy recommendations are provided for policymakers in Turkey to achieve sustainable growth and improve environmental quality.
Impact of Maker Movement on the Urban Resilience Development: Assessment Methodology and Analysis of EU Research and Innovation Projects
Authors: Monaco Lina , Herce Carlos
Published: August 2023

Cities are the engine of human development, and increasing urban sustainability is crucial to ensure human prosperity. The development of smart cities generally increases the sustainability of the cities. However, technical and environmental aspects are generally developed in smart cities neglecting socio-economic dimensions. The urban resilience concept includes the complex interactions of environmental, economic, and societal pillars. In this context, the emerging maker movement proposes an economic paradigm shift, with the interaction of humans and technology at the center of urban evolution. This paper proposes a multi-criteria methodology to define and assess the main characteristics of the resilient approach of the projects involving maker practices applied to urban development. The proposed methodology is based on the application of computer-assisted qualitative text analysis and a subsequent classification according to 12 indicators (community and urban efficiency, co-creation and professional, making sense and problem-solving, network and site-specific, implementation and optimization, sustainability-oriented and market-oriented) that define different dimensions of a bottom-up project’s resilient approach in three main key principles: inclusiveness, complexity, and durability. The method has been tested in 94 EU-funded projects. This analysis reveals the evolution and orientation of EU-funded projects from economic, technical, and social perspectives. Specifically, the patterns of remediation of non-participatory practices, the weak presence of open innovation initiatives, and the development of activities focusing on co-creation as a participatory tool. The applied methodology could be subsequently implemented at different scales and integrated with LCA in order to evaluate the sustainability of bottom-up projects toward urban development.
Co-Creation of a Center for a Regenerative Future
Authors: Bexell Sarah M. , Saitta Dean , Sher Anna , Sutton Paul
Published: August 2023

We present the ideas, conditions, and environments that motivated our co-creation of a Center for a Regenerative Future at the University of Denver. There is an emerging consensus among scholars and a widening realization among younger generations that the concept of sustainability has exhausted its utility as a framework and rhetorical narrative for creating a viable future for humanity. Growing levels of eco-anxiety related to climate change, loss of biodiversity, and their social and economic consequences suggest that efforts to achieve ‘sustainability’ or ‘sustainable development’ are not succeeding. Dominant sustainability paradigms typically rest on an anthropocentric culture–nature dualism and a mechanistic worldview that perpetuates a growth-based economic system that is socially inequitable and ecologically destructive. Regenerative paradigms offer holistic understandings of Earth systems, with accompanying commitments to social and ecological justice. They support the development of resilient communities that allow for wider economic prosperity, security, and global environmental healing. We share the successes, challenges, and experiences associated with our effort to create a Center for a Regenerative Future in the hope that others can leverage this information to build their own regenerative institutions, communities, and practices.
Sustainable Last-Mile Delivery Solution Evaluation in the Context of a Developing Country: A Novel OPA–Fuzzy MARCOS Approach
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Chung Yu-Chi , Wibowo Fajar Dwi , Dang Thanh-Tuan , Nguyen Ngoc-Ai-Thy
Published: August 2023

With the surge in e-commerce volumes during COVID-19, improving last-mile logistics is extremely challenging, specifically for developing economies, due to poor infrastructures, lack of stakeholders’ cooperation, and untapped resources. In the context of Vietnam, there are certain solutions that can bring more efficient and sustainable last-mile logistics. In this paper, to evaluate and rank these potentially sustainable last-mile solutions (LMSs), we propose a novel hybrid multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) model that combines the Ordinal Priority Approach (OPA) and fuzzy Measurement of Alternatives and Ranking according to the COmpromise Solution (fuzzy MARCOS). Twelve sustainability factors of technical, economic, social, and environmental aspects were determined through a literature review and experts’ opinions to employ the MADM approach. A case study evaluating five LMSs in Vietnam concerning their sustainable implementation is solved to exhibit the proposed framework’s applicability. From the OPA findings, “efficiency”, “costs of implementation and control”, “voice of customer”, “reliability”, and “flexibility” are the topmost criteria when considering a new LMS implementation in the context of Vietnam. Moreover, sensitivity analysis and comparative analysis were performed to test the robustness of the approach. The results illustrate that the applied methods reach consistent solution rankings, where LMS-03 (convenience store pickup), LMS-02 (parcel lockers), and LMS-01 (green vehicles) are the best solutions in Vietnam. The study holds novelty in evaluating last-mile initiatives for Vietnam by utilizing a unique approach in the form of two novel MADM techniques, thus providing significant insights for research and applications.
Learning Models for Higher Education in Engineering: Motivation, Self-Determination, and the Role of Information and Communication Technologies
Authors: Bustamante-Mora Ana , Diéguez-Rebolledo Mauricio , Hormazábal Yemsy , Valdés Yolanda , Cadena Rodrigo
Published: August 2023

In the last decade, great strides have been made to increase access to education and enrollment rates at all levels (primary, secondary, and higher education). Actions such as promoting equal access to education, preventing school dropout, and establishing free education, among other actions proposed by organizations such as UNESCO, seek to guarantee the universality of education. This is undoubtedly a great challenge, and to address it, it is necessary to characterize how students face the learning process, considering factors such as autonomy, competencies, and their own basic psychological needs, looking for effective learning models based on students’ needs in a changing world, where ICTs play a relevant role. This research analyzes learning models, motivation, self-determination, and technologies used for learning achievement in higher engineering education. The study will highlight relevant initiatives and the most commonly used technological tools. It will also identify learning models that seek to link emotional intelligence, self-determination, cognitive skills, and ICT. The PRISMA protocol guided the study, finding 132 relevant articles to be analyzed and proposing best practices in using learning models, strategies, and ICT to foster students’ intrinsic motivation.
Green Power Consumption Digital Identification System Based on Blockchain Technology
Authors: Li Gehui , Yang Jing , Yu Tao , Yang Fuquan , Lu Xiaoni , Shi Zhuyu
Published: August 2023

In China, the promulgation of a green power identification system has gradually shifted from electricity power generation to consumption. However, there is no mature digital identification system for green power consumption enterprises. Exploiting the open, transparent, and immutable characteristics of blockchains, this study establishes a digital identification system for green power consumption based on blockchain technology. This system uses expert scoring and the entropy weight method as the evaluation algorithm for the green power consumption chain, issues non-fungible tokens as digital identification for consumption enterprises, and realizes the automatic generation of identification through smart contracts. These functions guarantee the credibility of the certification process and the uniqueness of the generated identification. The results of the experiments show that, in the case of multi-user concurrent requests, the number of concurrent users that the system could handle at optimal processing efficiency was 500, and block generation was stable. The proposed system has high practicability and stability.
Agricultural Production Can Be a Carbon Sink: A Case Study of Jinchang City
Authors: Chang Guohua , Liu Hao , Yin Zhuoxin , Wang Jinxiang , Li Kaiming , Gao Tianpeng
Published: August 2023

In the context of China’s commitment to the “double carbon” goal, promoting agricultural carbon emission reduction is currently an important research topic. Assessing the carbon sequestration level of crops has a positive impact on enhancing agricultural carbon sinks and reducing carbon emissions. The carbon budget for agricultural planting on the arid oasis of Jinchang, northwest China, is quantitatively calculated from 2018 to 2020. The average value of total carbon absorption by crops in Jinchang was greater than the average value of total carbon emissions in the past three years. In 2020, the total carbon absorption was the highest (1,744,725 t CO2-eq), and the carbon emission was 102,641 t CO2-eq. The crops had a strong carbon absorption function. Among the investigated crops, the largest average annual carbon sequestration was found in corn, which accounted for 45% of the total carbon sequestration in the city. Among the carbon emission pathways, chemical fertilizer and agricultural film were the main carbon sources, accounting for more than 40% of total carbon emissions. The carbon budget analysis in the region clearly showed that the structure of agricultural cropping and the planting area proportion of crops significantly affected the carbon balance of the whole agricultural region and that increasing the proportion of the area planted with corn was beneficial in enhancing regional carbon sequestration.
Estimating Public Transportation Accessibility in Metropolitan Areas: A Case Study and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Su Haitao , Li Menghan , Zhong Xiaofeng , Zhang Kai , Wang Jingkai
Published: August 2023

Accessibility-oriented public transportation planning can improve the operational efficiency of public transportation, guide orderly urban development, and alleviate issues such as traffic congestion, environmental pollution, and resource consumption in large cities. To promote the practical application and widespread adoption of public transportation accessibility estimating systems, this study proposes an improved public transport accessibility levels (PTAL) method. It innovatively incorporates residents’ preference indices for different modes of transportation and addresses the challenge of missing timetable data in the calculation process. Using actual data from Shenzhen, a case study is conducted to analyze the public transportation accessibility index and compare the results obtained through k-means clustering, the equal spacing method, the quantile method, and the application of the London PTAL method. The research findings indicate that the optimal number of clusters for public transportation accessibility index analysis in large cities is six when using clustering algorithms. Among the statistical analysis methods, the quantile method shows favorable performance. Furthermore, a comprehensive comparison of different classification methods confirms that the improved PTAL method offers better discrimination in estimating public transportation accessibility levels compared to the London PTAL method. The study concludes by providing guidance on how cities with different characteristics can reference the improved PTAL method.
Strategic Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Supply Chain Innovation from the Perspective of Collaborative Advantage
Authors: Xin Benlu , Zhang Wentao , Zhang Wei , Lou Catherine Xiaocui , Shee Himanshu Kumar
Published: August 2023

This study aims to investigate the mechanisms by which firms’ strategic entrepreneurship (SE) impacts the achievement of their collaborative advantage (CA) for sustainable supply chain innovation. It includes a comprehensive analysis of the direct effect of SE on CA, the contingent effects of organizational structure and collaborative networks on this impact and the interaction effect of exploration and exploitation strategies under SE. An integrated conceptual model is proposed and the hypotheses are tested by structural equation modeling (SEM) using survey data from 432 manufacturing firms in China. The results confirm the positive impact of SE on CA, which is moderated differently by decentralized, formalized and specialized organizational structures. Meanwhile, vertical and horizontal collaborations lead to different types of advantages, and firms need to balance exploration and exploitation strategies across functional domains to achieve strategic ambidexterity, which further improves CA and facilitates sustainable supply chain innovation. Theoretically, this study is original in applying SE to the collaborative advantage in a supply chain context, while taking into account the high complexity of supply chain collaboration with a contingency approach. Practically, this study provides important managerial implications and specific recommendations for different firms to achieve sustainability in supply chain collaboration and innovation.
Similarity Solution for Magnetogasdynamic Shock Waves in a Weakly Conducting Perfect Gas by Using the Lie Group Invariance Method
Authors: Nath Gorakh , S Kadam
Published: August 2023

Under axial and azimuthal magnetic inductions, the similarity solutions for a cylindrical shock wave in a weakly conducting ideal gas are determined using the Lie group invariance method. The axial and azimuthal magnetic inductions and density are presumed to vary in an ambient medium. This study determines the form of expression for axial and azimuthal magnetic inductions in the ambient medium. The ambient density is considered to be varying according to the power law of the shock radius. The weakly conducting medium causes inadequate magnetic freezing. We have numerically solved the system of ordinary differential equations that resulted from applying the Lie group invariance method to the system of partial differential equations. The impact of the variation in the ambient density exponent, the ratio of specific heats, magnetic Reynolds number, or the inverse square of axial and azimuthal Alfven Mach numbers on the shock strength and the flow variables behind the shock front is discussed. It is found that the shock strength decreases with an increase in the ratio of specific heats, magnetic Reynolds number, or the inverse square of axial and azimuthal Alfven Mach numbers.
mmWave Polarization Diversity Wideband Multiple-Input/Multiple-Output Antenna System with Symmetrical Geometry for Future Compact Devices
Authors: Munir Mehr E , Kiani Saad Hassan , Savci Huseyin Serif , Sehrai Daniyal Ali , Muhammad Fazal , Ali Ayyaz , Mostafa Hala , Parchin Naser Ojaroudi
Published: August 2023

The fifth generation (5G) of mobile networks is a significant technological advancement in telecommunications that provides faster data speeds, lower latency, and greater network capacity. One of the key technologies that enables 5G is multiple-input/multiple-output (MIMO) antenna systems, which allow for the transmission and reception of multiple data streams simultaneously, improving network performance and efficiency. MIMO is essential to meeting the demand for higher data rates and improved network performance in 5G networks. This work presents a four-element MIMO antenna system dedicated to the upper 5G millimeter-wave (mmWave) spectrum. The suggested antenna system is designed using an ultra-thin RO5880 substrate having total dimensions of 20 × 20 × 0.254 mm3 with symmetrical geometry. The proposed antenna covers a fractional bandwidth of 46.875% (25–38 GHz), covering potential 5G bands of 26, 28, and 32 GHz, and offers isolation of >18 dB. The proposed MIMO system is fabricated and tested in-house. The antenna showed efficiency >88% at the potential band of interest and a peak gain of 3.5 dBi. The orthogonal arrangement of the resonating elements provides polarization diversity. Also, the MIMO parameters obtained, such as mean effective gain (MEG), envelope correlation coefficient (ECC), diversity gain (DG), channel capacity loss (CCL), and total active reflection coefficient (TARC), are found to have good performance. The measured results obtained are found to be in good agreement with simulations, hence making the proposed MIMO antenna suitable for handheld mmWave 5G devices.
Foundations of Continuum Mechanics and Mathematical Physics—Editorial 2021–2023
Authors: dell’Isola Francesco , Matevossian Hovik A.
Published: August 2023

It is well known that “Physics and Symmetry/Asymmetry” is a topical Section of Symmetry [...]
Projective Collineations in Warped Product Manifolds and (PRS)n Manifolds
Authors: Shenawy Sameh , De Uday Chand , Bin Turki Nasser , Pundeer Naeem Ahmad
Published: August 2023

The current work first explores projective collineations on pseudo-Riemannian manifolds. Projective collineations, curvature collineations, and Ricci curvature collineations are examined in relation to one another. On warped product manifolds, the projective collineations of the form ζ=ζ1+ζ2 are investigated. We scrutinize various inheritance aspects in projective collineations from warped product manifolds to its factor manifolds. This provides, for example, a partially negative solution to Besse’s problem regarding the existence of Einstein warped product manifolds. Finally, Pseudo-Ricci symmetric space-times admitting projective collineations are investigated.
Research on Collaborative Mechanisms of Railway EPC Project Design and Construction from the Perspective of Social Network Analysis
Authors: Fan Zilu , Liu Yuming , Li Yaxin
Published: August 2023

With the promotion of Engineering Procurement Construction mode in railway construction projects, collaborative management between design and construction has faced increasing challenges due to complexities of the participants and the various professional fields involved in railway EPC projects. This paper aims to analyze the issues present in the collaborative management of railway EPC project design and construction. Utilizing the social network analysis methodology combined with the Wuli–Shili–Renli (WSR) system methodology, a network model was established to explore relationships between design and construction management. This study investigates network-influencing factors and proposes targeted measures to enhance project management efficiency. The findings indicate that coordination and communication mechanisms, organization building, interface management systems and design management systems represent core network elements that significantly impact railway EPC collaborative management. These elements are closely related to other network factors. The research not only advances design and construction coordination theory, but it also introduces new ideas for engineering practice.
Correction: Jia et al. Exposure to Polypropylene Microplastics via Oral Ingestion Induces Colonic Apoptosis and Intestinal Barrier Damage through Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Mice. Toxics 2023, 11, 127
Authors: Jia Rui , Han Jie , Liu Xiaohua , Li Kang , Lai Wenqing , Bian Liping , Yan Jun , Xi Zhuge
Published: August 2023

In the original publication [...]