bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Update of the Promise of Glycine Supplementation for Enhancing Physical Performance and Recovery
Authors: Ramos-Jiménez Arnulfo , Hernández-Torres Rosa Patricia , Hernández-Ontiveros David Alfredo , Ortiz-Ortiz Melinna , López-Fregoso Reymond Josué , Martínez-Sanz José Miguel , Rodríguez-Uribe Genaro , Hernández-Lepe Marco Antonio
Published: September 2024

Glycine, the simple amino acid, is a key component of muscle metabolism with proven cytoprotective effects and hypothetical benefits as a therapeutic nutrient. Cell, in vitro, and animal studies suggest that glycine enhances protection against muscle wasting by activating anabolic pathways and inhibiting proteolytic gene expression. Some evidence indicates that glycine supplementation may enhance peak power output, reduce lactic acid accumulation during high-intensity exercise, and improve sleep quality and recovery. This literature review critically explores glycine’s potential as an ergogenic aid and its relevance to muscle regeneration, muscle strength, endurance exercise performance, and sleep quality. It also underscores key areas for future research. It is concluded that more randomized controlled clinical trials in humans are needed to confirm glycine’s potential as a dietary supplement to support muscle function, recovery, and overall athletic performance as an ergogenic aid and to establish nutritional recommendations for athletic performance. Also, it is essential to consider that high doses (>500 mg/kg of body mass) could induce cytotoxic effects and contribute to acute glutamate toxicity.
The Relationship between Financial Inclusion and Women’s Financial Worries: Evidence from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Binsuwadan Jawaher , Elhaj Manal , Bousrih Jihen , Mabrouk Fatma , Alofaysan Hind
Published: September 2024

Financial inclusion is essential in achieving sustainable development goals in emerging countries. Goal number five of the sustainable development agenda, “Gender equality”, depends on women’s financial empowerment. It enhances women’s ability to make decisions, access resources and income, and control benefits from economic gains and power. The paper investigates the relationship between financial inclusion and women’s financial worries, using the 2021 Global Financial Inclusion Survey recently published by the World Bank for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This paper examines the effects of several aspects of inclusive finance, access, usage, and quality on women’s financial worries. The research implements an ordered probit analysis and contributes to the literature on women’s financial empowerment and inclusion by demonstrating that having access to financial services empowers women to make decisions about their lives, which greatly improves their welfare and sense of security. These findings provide policymakers with different targeted policies and strategic management practices to substantially improve financial inclusion and alleviate financial concerns within the population, especially among women.
Advances in Chitosan-Based Materials for Application in Catalysis and Adsorption of Emerging Contaminants
Authors: Gonçalves Janaína Oliveira , de Farias Bruna Silva , Rios Estéfani Cardillo , Jaeschke Débora Pez , Ribeiro Anelise Christ , da Silva Mariele Dalmolin , Vieira Mery Luiza Garcia , Carvalho Valéria Vieira de Lima , Cadaval Tito Roberto Santanna , Pinto Luiz Antonio de Almeida
Published: September 2024

The increasing disposal of emerging contaminants in the environment is a worldwide concern due to environmental impacts, such as toxicity, hormonal disorders, and bioaccumulation. The persistence of these pollutants in water bodies makes conventional pollutant removal techniques inefficient or partial, thus requiring the development of new, more effective, sustainable remediation technologies. Therefore, chitosan-based materials have emerged as a promising alternative for application in catalysis and contaminant removal. The biopolymer has functional properties that make it an excellent adsorbent capable of removing more specific pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals, microplastics, agricultural pesticides, and perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, which are increasingly in evidence today. Therefore, this review of recent and advanced research into using chitosan to manufacture catalytic and adsorption materials offers an innovative approach to treating contaminants in aqueous environments, significantly reducing their presence and impact. It discusses the advantages of using chitosan as an adsorbent and catalyst and its role as a support for catalysts and biocatalysts. In addition, the review highlights the diversity of the physical forms of chitosan, such as particles, membranes, and hydrogels, and its possible chemical modifications, highlighting its effectiveness in catalytic applications and the removal of a wide range of emerging contaminants.
Autonomous Vehicles and Urban Traffic Management for Sustainability: Impacts of Transition of Control and Dedicated Lanes
Authors: Yıldırım Zeynel Baran , Özuysal Mustafa
Published: September 2024

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) are increasingly recognized for their potential to enhance urban traffic systems, particularly in traffic management and sustainability. This study explores AV integration into urban networks, focusing on transitions of control (ToC) and dedicated lane (DL) applications at varying AV penetration rates. Through simulations, various scenarios reveal the complex interactions between AVs and human-driven vehicles in mixed traffic conditions. The findings show that DLs can reduce local density, occupancy, and time loss by 5–35%, while improving travel time reliability by 15–25%. On an urban scale, DLs generally enhance traffic flow and reduce emissions, though the effects of ToC vary based on traffic conditions and AV automation levels. At lower AV penetration rates, ToC can lead to increased travel times and up to a 10% decline in traffic performance due to unpredictable human driver behavior during control transitions. The results highlight that DLs can significantly improve traffic flow, travel time reliability, and emissions, thereby contributing to sustainable urban mobility. However, the impacts of ToC are more complex, depending on specific traffic conditions and AV automation levels. This study emphasizes the importance of well-designed ToC and DL applications to optimize AV integration and support a balanced, sustainable future for urban mobility.
A Sustainable Model for Forecasting Carbon Emission Trading Prices
Authors: Chen Jiaqing , Peng Dongpeng , Liu Zhiwei , Wu Lingzhi , Jiang Ming
Published: September 2024

Carbon trading has garnered considerable attention as a pivotal policy instrument for advancing carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, which are essential components of sustainable development. The capacity to precisely anticipate the cost of carbon trading has significant implications for the optimal deployment of market mechanisms, the economic advancement of technological innovations in corporate emissions reduction, and the facilitation of international energy policy adjustments. To this end, this paper proposes a novel and sustainable trading price prediction tool that employs a four-step process: decomposition, reconstruction, prediction, and integration. This innovative approach first utilizes the Improved Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (ICEEMDAN), then reconstructs the decomposition set using multi-scale entropy (MSE), and finally uses the Long Short-Term Memory neural network model (LSTM) enhanced by the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) to predict the carbon emission trading price. The experimental results demonstrate that the tool achieves high accuracy for both the EU carbon price series and the carbon price series of China’s seven major carbon trading markets, with accuracy rates of 99.10% and 99.60% in Hubei and the EU carbon trading markets, respectively. This represents an improvement of approximately 3.1% over the ICEEMDAN-LSTM model and 0.91% over the ICEEMDAN-MSE-LSTM model, thereby contributing to more sustainable and efficient carbon trading practices.
Sustainability, Resiliency, and Artificial Intelligence in Supplier Selection: A Triple-Themed Review
Authors: Mirzaee Hossein , Ashtab Sahand
Published: September 2024

The process of selecting suppliers is a critical and multifaceted aspect of supply chain management, involving numerous criteria and decision-making variables. This complexity escalates when integrating sustainable and resilient factors into supplier evaluation. This literature review paper explores various evaluation criteria that encompass economic, environmental, social, and resilience dimensions for supplier selection. Different methodologies to model and address these complexities are investigated in this research. This review synthesizes the findings of 143 publications spanning the last decade (2013–2023), highlighting the prevalent evaluation criteria and methodologies and identifying existing research gaps. In addition, the feasibility of combining multiple approaches to more accurately reflect real-world scenarios and manage uncertainties in supplier selection is examined. This paper also proposes a decision-making framework to assist practitioners in navigating the intricacies of this process. The paper concludes by suggesting seven potential directions for future research in this evolving field.
Building Sustainable Competitive Advantage in Banking through Organizational Agility
Authors: Probojakti Wiweko , Utami Hamidah Nayati , Prasetya Arik , Riza Muhammad Faisal
Published: September 2024

The fast development of technology in the banking sector has forced a basic review of organizational strategies and structures since banks want to keep ahead of the curve and satisfy the evolving needs of the digital era. This study examines the mediating role of organizational agility in the relationship between transformational leadership and digital transformation on sustainable competitive advantage in the banking sector. The research sample was drawn from a population consisting of head offices, branch offices, and sub-branch offices of regional banks in Indonesia, totaling 185 units. Based on 185 data points collected through surveys distributed to unit leaders, we used PLS-SEM analysis to test the proposed hypotheses. Empirical results indicate that transformational leadership and digital transformation have no significant effect on sustainable competitive advantage. However, organizational agility can significantly mediate this impact on sustainable competitive advantage. The findings underscore the importance of developing agility as an internal factor of organizations that plays a crucial role in achieving sustainable competitive advantage.
The Relationship between Erosion and Precipitation and the Effects of Different Riparian Practices on Soil and Total-P Losses via Streambank Erosion in Small Streams in Iowa, USA
Authors: Tufekcioglu Mustafa , Zaimes George N. , Kahriman Aydın , Schultz Richard C.
Published: September 2024

Streambank erosion in agricultural landscapes contributes high amounts of sediment and total-P to surface water, resulting in the degradation of stream habitats and reduction in ecological services. Moreover, the implication of future climate change on bank erosion is also a growing concern. Streambank erosion rates from riparian forest buffers (RFo), grass filters (GFi), row-crops (RCr) and pastures, including fenced pastures (FPa), rotationally grazed pastures (RPa), intensive rotationally grazed pastures (IPa), and continuously grazed pastures (CPa), in three landform regions of Iowa, were measured over seven years. Bank erosion pins were measured seasonally (spring, summer and fall) in the first five years (2002–2006) and yearly for two more years (2007–2008). It was found that summer and spring seasons are the important ones since the relationships between erosion and precipitation were significantly “strong” in almost all the riparian practices, and precipitation was found to be the main factor driving streambank erosion. Streambank mean soil losses and soil total-P losses from RFo (23.3 tons km−1 yr−1 and 9.8 kg km−1 yr−1, respectively), GFi (31.1 and 9.9) and FPa (44.0 and 23.7) practices were all significantly lower than the grazing pasture practices, including RPa (142.3 and 58), CPa (255 and 105.1), IPa (234.6 and 122.7) and RCr fields (352.9 and 118.9). Also, RPa had significantly lower total-P loss than CPa, IPa and RCr practices (RFo, GFi, FPa < RPa < CPa, IPa, RCr). RCr practices had the highest streambank soil losses among all other riparian practices (RFo, GFi, FPa < RPa < IPa, CPa < RCr). The study showed that riparian conservation practices (RFo, GFi and FPa) showcased significant benefits in mitigating streambank soil loss and associated soil total-P load to streams. However, their effectiveness is highly sensitive to changing climatic conditions and the extent of spatiotemporal variations.
Machine Learning Prediction of Co-Seismic Landslide with Distance and Azimuth Instead of Peak Ground Acceleration
Authors: Shi Yang , Zhang Zhenguo , Xue Changhu , Feng Yu
Published: September 2024

Most machine learning (ML) studies on predicting co-seismic landslides have relied on Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA). The PGA of the ground strongly correlates with the relative position and azimuth of the seismogenic faults. Using the co-seismic landslide records of the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, we show that the ML model using the distances and azimuths from the epicenter to sites performs better than the PGA model regarding accuracy and actual prediction results. The distances and azimuths are more accessible than the PGA because obtaining accurate and realistic large-scale PGAs is difficult. Considering their computational efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the ML models utilizing distances and azimuths from the epicenter to the sites as inputs could be an alternative to PGA-based models for evaluating the impact of co-seismic landslides. Notably, these models prove advantageous in near-real-time scenarios and settings requiring high spatial resolution, and provide favorable assistance in achieving the goal of sustainable development of society.
Advanced Sensor Technologies in CAVs for Traditional and Smart Road Condition Monitoring: A Review
Authors: Khanmohamadi Masoud , Guerrieri Marco
Published: September 2024

This paper explores new sensor technologies and their integration within Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) for real-time road condition monitoring. Sensors like accelerometers, gyroscopes, LiDAR, cameras, and radar that have been made available on CAVs are able to detect anomalies on roads, including potholes, surface cracks, or roughness. This paper also describes advanced data processing techniques of data detected with sensors, including machine learning algorithms, sensor fusion, and edge computing, which enhance accuracy and reliability in road condition assessment. Together, these technologies support instant road safety and long-term maintenance cost reduction with proactive maintenance strategies. Finally, this article provides a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art future directions of condition monitoring systems for traditional and smart roads.
Seismic Microzonation Mapping for Urban and Land Sustainable Planning in High Seismicity Areas (L’Aquila Municipality, Central Italy): The Contribution of 2D Modeling for the Evaluation of the Amplification Factors
Authors: Tallini Marco , Morana Enrico , Guerriero Vincenzo , Di Giulio Giuseppe , Vassallo Maurizio
Published: September 2024

This paper illustrates the outcomes of a third-level Seismic Microzonation project carried out in pilot areas of the Municipality of L’Aquila, Italy, an area characterized by recent strong seismic activity (6 April 2009 Mw 6.3 earthquake and central Italy 2016 seismic sequence—Mw 6.0 and 6.5 events). The primary aim was to develop numerical maps for urban and land planning to mitigate seismic risk, in line with the guidelines of the Italian Civil Protection Department. The local amplification assessment was organized through various sequential and/or parallel activities, including geotechnical and geophysical investigations and characterization, seismic input and numerical code selection, acquisition of 2D microtremor arrays, and comparison between 1D and 2D numerical modeling of seismic site response. This case study introduces several innovations to the microzonation procedures outlined in current Italian and European regulations, such as the use of microtremor arrays to assess a reliable subsoil model and a new procedure for associating amplification factors to each microzone. The results obtained are significant both for the detailed seismic characterization of the territory and for providing methodological indications useful for similar future studies. The use of 2D models is integrated into the flowchart for producing third-level microzonation maps, offering valuable tools within the framework of urban and land management from a perspective of territorial sustainability.
Design and Evaluation of a Precision Irrigation Tool’s Human–Machine Interaction to Bring Water- and Energy-Efficient Irrigation to Resource-Constrained Farmers
Authors: Van de Zande Georgia D. , Grant Fiona , Sheline Carolyn , Amrose Susan , Costello Jeffery , Ghodgaonkar Aditya , Winter V Amos G.
Published: September 2024

As freshwater supplies decrease, adopting sustainable practices like water- and energy-efficient irrigation is crucial, particularly in resource-constrained regions. Here, farmers often cannot purchase precision irrigation equipment, which achieves high water and energy efficiencies via full automation. Currently, no irrigation methods exist that combine automatic scheduling of events with manual operation of valves, familiar hardware on low-income farms. This work synthesizes functional requirements for a tool that could address efficiency needs while integrating into current manual practices. Then, a design concept for an automatic scheduling and manual operation (AS-MO) human–machine interaction (HMI) that meets these requirements is proposed. Two design stages of the AS-MO HMI were evaluated by farmers and market stakeholders in three countries. Results show that farmers in Kenya and Jordan valued the proposed AS-MO HMI because they could increase efficiency on their farms without the cost or complexity of automatic valves. In Morocco, a possible market was found, but a majority of participants preferred full automation. Interviewees provided feedback on how to improve the tool’s design in future iterations. If adopted at scale, the proposed AS-MO tool could increase efficiency on farms that otherwise cannot afford current precision irrigation technology, improving sustainable agriculture worldwide.
The Impact of Environmental Information Disclosure in the “Carbon Trading Pilot” Project on the Financial Performance of Listed Enterprises in China
Authors: Xu Dandan , Liu Yuting
Published: September 2024

Environmental policy has long been regarded as the key to achieving sustainable growth goals. Because China is one of the most energy-consuming and carbon-emitting countries globally, its carbon reduction actions have received worldwide attention. This study aims to simultaneously focus on the impact of environmental disclosure and the level of environmental disclosure on enterprise performance. Thus, we use China’s 2013 “Carbon Trading Pilot” policy as an exogenous shock and adopt the DID (difference-in-differences) method to examine the impacts of policy-related disclosure and the disclosure level on the financial performance of listed enterprises from 2009 to 2020. The results are as follows: (1) The “Carbon Trading Pilot” policy-related environmental disclosure negatively affects enterprise financial performance; however, the environmental disclosure level is positively correlated with enterprise financial performance, and both impacts are heterogeneous. (2) The impact of the “Carbon Trading Pilot” project-related environmental disclosure level on enterprise financial performance has a threshold effect, where its impact is enhanced when the environmental disclosure index reaches 10.074. (3) Further exploration of mechanisms reveals that total liabilities play an action mechanism role in the above two relationships. Studying the impact of environmental policies on enterprise financial performance is of paramount significance for economic sustainability.
Electricity Capacity Convergence in G20 Countries: New Findings from New Tests
Authors: Doğan Ebru
Published: September 2024

Energy sources, one of the key elements of economic growth and development, have recently come to the forefront in terms of sustainability, security of supply, low cost, and environmental impact. Therefore, the diversification of energy sources is becoming more important; in this regard many countries are investing especially in renewable energy sources. This trend plays an important role in the decarbonization of the energy sector. The aim of this study is to analyze the convergence of electricity capacity in G20 countries, which account for two-thirds of the world population and have a dominant position in the world economy. Accordingly, the analysis was carried out for total electricity capacity and its sources (nuclear, fossil fuels, and renewables). Unlike other studies in the literature, this study utilizes nonlinear unit root tests with Fourier function, which models nonlinearity and structural break, the two main problems in unit root tests, within the framework of recent developments in time series analysis. According to the findings of the analysis, it was concluded that the converging countries are in line with the G20 policies in terms of electricity capacity and its sources and that there is no need for policy changes in these countries.
Air Pollution in the Port City of Lithuania: Characteristics of the Distribution of Nitrogen Dioxide and Solid Particles When Assessing the Demographic Distribution of the Population
Authors: Andriulė Aistė , Vasiliauskienė Erika , Rapalis Paulius , Dailidienė Inga
Published: September 2024

This research addresses a gap in localized air quality assessments by measuring pollution levels in Klaipeda, a Baltic port city, using passive solid particle collectors and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) diffusion tubes. Passive sampling techniques were employed due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of deployment, allowing for practical monitoring over short-term periods. By targeting diverse functional zones, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of air pollution patterns and seasonal variations in the region. Air pollution, primarily from NO2 and particulate matter (PM), poses significant risks to public health, especially in densely populated urban areas. Air quality was assessed by measuring total suspended particulates (TSP) and NO2 concentrations across 19 strategically chosen sites, covering key functional zones, such as industrial areas, green spaces, residential neighborhoods, transport hubs, and the port. Results show elevated pollution levels near major roads and the port area, likely driven by heavy traffic, industrial emissions, and port activities. These patterns correlate with areas of higher population density, highlighting the intersection of air quality challenges with human health risks in urbanized zones. Seasonal data reveal a notable peak in NO2 concentrations during winter, likely due to increased heating demand and reduced atmospheric dispersion. These findings suggest that air quality management strategies should be adaptive to seasonal fluctuations, particularly by addressing emissions from heating sources in colder months. The study underscores the necessity of integrating sustainable urban planning with targeted air quality interventions. Expanding green spaces, enhancing traffic regulation, and establishing protective zones near industrial areas are critical strategies for mitigating pollution. These insights are essential for guiding both urban development and public health policies in Klaipeda and other coastal cities facing similar environmental challenges.
Enhancing the Sustainability of AI Technology in Architectural Design: Improving the Matching Accuracy of Chinese-Style Buildings
Authors: Chen Feiran , Mai Mengran , Huang Xinyi , Li Yinghan
Published: September 2024

This study discusses the application of AI technology in the design of traditional Chinese-style architecture, aiming to enhance AI’s matching accuracy and sustainability. Currently, there are limitations in AI technology in generating details of traditional Chinese-style architecture, so this study proposes a method of fine-tuning AI pre-training models, by extracting samples of traditional architectural style elements, to enhance the trajectory and output accuracy of AI generation. The research method includes constructing AI pre-training models, using DreamBooth and ControlNet tools for personalized training and perspective control. Through experimental verification, this study found that pre-trained models can effectively enhance the accuracy and controllability of AI in the preliminary design of architecture. At the same time, the application of ControlNet technology has significantly improved the accuracy and realism of architectural rendering. The value of this study lies in proposing a new method that combines AI technology with the process of traditional Chinese architectural design, which can help architects better protect and inherit the culture of traditional Chinese architecture. Through this method, it can reduce the difficulty of learning traditional Chinese architectural design, optimize the design process, enhance design efficiency, and provide strong support for the sustainable development of traditional Chinese architecture.
Research on the Impact Mechanism of Green Innovation in Marine Science and Technology Enabling Dual Economic Circulations
Authors: Jin Xin , Huang Shiru , Lei Xue
Published: September 2024

Currently, accelerating the construction of a new development pattern with dual economic circulations is strategically significant for enhancing the autonomy and sustainability of China’s economic development. First of all, this paper, from the perspective of green innovation in marine science and technology, measures its efficiency using the SBM super-efficiency model. Then, a coupling coordination model calculates the coordination degree of dual economic circulations after measuring the domestic and international economic circulations based on the TOPSIS method. Secondly, a two-way fixed effects model is employed to examine the impact of green innovation in marine science and technology on domestic economic circulation, international economic circulation, and dual economic circulations. The study finds that green innovation in marine science and technology effectively promotes domestic economic circulation, international economic circulation, and the dual economic circulations. Additionally, green innovation in marine science and technology mitigates the impact of inter-regional resource misalignment on domestic economic circulation and influences international economic circulation by promoting the high-quality development of the marine economy. Finally, it is discovered that green innovation in marine science and technology exhibits a single-threshold heterogeneous effect on domestic economic circulation and international economic circulation.
Applying the Delphi Method to Assess Critical Success Factors of Digitalization While Sustaining Lean at a Lean Automaker
Authors: Goktas Hasan Oktay , Yumusak Nejat
Published: September 2024

This paper describes the critical success factors for digitalization in manufacturing within the framework of Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 while sustaining Lean and Lean-reinforcement links during this transformation within the actual transformation journey of an enterprise (Toyota Motor Europe). In this regard, 11 critical success factors for “digital transformation”, 9 critical success factors for “Lean sustainability”, and 12 reinforcement links (between Lean and digitalization) were identified from the published literature and 56 one-on-one discussions with Toyota Production System experts. Both Lean and digitalization frameworks were developed using the ontology method. Then, a survey with these experts was conducted, in which the Delphi method was used as a survey tool for an analysis, which was performed in three steps: an analysis of psychometric properties was conducted, a stability analysis of the Delphi method was performed, and the significance of non-consensus hypotheses of the results were examined. The results show that “top management commitment” is the most critical factor for digital transformations, whereas for Lean sustainability, it is “keep Genchi Genbutsu (go and see)”. It was found that digitalization impacts Lean very positively (high/strong or high) for a majority of the links and lean on the positive side for the remaining links. These findings can help manufacturing firms make informed decisions regarding minimal waste, lead times, and the right strategy for digitalization.
Knowledge-Based Recommendation System for Plate Waste Reduction in Latvian Schools
Authors: Kodors Sergejs , Lonska Jelena , Zarembo Imants , Zvaigzne Anda , Apeinans Ilmars , Deksne Juta
Published: September 2024

Food waste indicates ineffective and irresponsible consumption of resources, particularly during the food consumption stage. The aim of our research study is to optimize the catering management process at Latvian schools by reducing the amount of plate waste. The experts developed a set of recommendations aimed at improving the catering management process at schools. The recommendations developed were supported by measurable parameters, which must be monitored by school staff. The capability-driven development approach was applied to model the recommendation system. A plate waste predictive module and a large language model classifier were integrated into the system to support sustainable decision-making. The large language model classifier was trained to filter questions and recommendations. Three training methods were compared: training from scratch and finetuning by using datasets DBPedia and News Category Dataset. As a result, we present the list of recommendations based on the literature review, and the prototype of the knowledge-based recommendation system was developed to audit the school catering management process and promote sustainable school management and decision-making. The recommendation system aims to reduce plate waste due to deficiencies in the implementation of the catering process and to promote responsible food consumption at schools.
The Riemann–Hilbert Approach to the Higher-Order Gerdjikov–Ivanov Equation on the Half Line
Authors: Hu Jiawei , Zhang Ning
Published: September 2024

The Fokas method exhibits remarkable versatility in solving boundary value problems associated with both linear and nonlinear partial differential equations, particularly when conventional approaches encounter challenges in handling intricate boundary conditions. The existing literature often lacks the incorporation of unconventional boundary conditions, and this study addresses this issue by extending the application of the Fokas method to the higher-order Gerdjikov-Ivanov equation on the half line (−∞,0]. We have demonstrated the exclusive representation of the potential function u(z,t) in the higher-order Gerdjikov–Ivanov equation through the solution of a Riemann–Hilbert problem. The characteristic function is partitioned on the complex plane, and we obtain the jump matrix between each partition based on the positive and negative values of the partition as well as the spectral matrix determined by the initial data and boundary value data. The findings suggest that the spectral functions are not mutually independent; instead, they conform to a global relationship. The novel aspect of this study is the application of the Fokas method to a previously unexplored case, contributing to the theoretical and practical understanding of complex partial differential equations and filling a gap in the treatment of boundary conditions.
Some Properties of Reduced Biquaternion Tensors
Authors: Liu Ting-Ting , Yu Shao-Wen
Published: September 2024

Compared to quaternions, reduced biquaternions satisfy the multiplication commutative rule and are widely employed in applications such as image processing, fuzzy recognition, image compression, and digital signal processing. However, there is little information available regarding reduced biquaternion tensors; thus, in this study, we investigate some properties of reduced biquaternion tensors. Firstly, we introduce the concept of reduced biquaternion tensors, propose the real and complex representations of reduced biquaternion tensors, and prove several fundamental theorems. Subsequently, we provide the definitions for the eigenvalues and eigentensors of reduced biquaternion tensors and present the Gersˇgorin theorem as it applies to their eigenvalues. Additionally, we establish the relationship between the reduced biquaternion tensor and its complex representation. Notably, the complex representation is a symmetry tensor, which significantly simplifies the process and complexity of solving for eigenvalues. Corresponding numerical examples are also provided in the paper. Furthermore, some special properties of eigenvalues of reduced biquaternion tensors are presented.
Assessing Vulnerabilities in Line Length Parameterization and the Per-Unit-Length Paradigm for Phase Modulation and Figure-of-Merit Evaluation in 60 GHz Liquid Crystal Phase Shifters
Authors: Li Jinfeng , Li Haorong
Published: September 2024

The figure-of-merit (FoM) is a crucial metric in evaluating liquid crystal (LC) phase shifters, significantly influencing the selection of superior device candidates. This paper identifies, for the first time, a fundamental limitation in the widely-used High-Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS), a closed-source commercial tool, when modeling reconfigurable delay line phase shifters (RDLPS) based on LC at millimeter-wave (mmW) frequencies for Beyond 5G (B5G) and Sixth-Generation (6G) applications. Specifically, the study reveals unreliable predictions of differential phase shifts (DPS) when using the line length parameterization (LLP) approach, with an accuracy of only 47.22%. These LLP-induced inaccuracies lead to misleading FoM calculations, potentially skewing comparative analyses against phase shifters implemented with different geometries or advanced technologies. Additionally, the per-unit-length (PUL) paradigm, commonly employed by microwave circuit engineers for evaluating and optimizing microwave transmission line designs, is also found to have limitations in the context of mmW RDLPS based on LC. The PUL methodology underestimates the FoM by 1.38206°/dB for an LC coaxial RDLPS at 60 GHz. These findings underscore a critical symmetry implication, where the assumed symmetry in phase shift response is violated, resulting in inconsistent performance assessments. To address these challenges, a remediation strategy based on a scenario-based “Length-for-π” (LFP) framework is proposed, offering more accurate performance characterization and enabling better-informed decision-making in mmW phase shifter design.
Protection and Fault Isolation Scheme for DC Distribution Network Based on Active Current-Limiting Control
Authors: Cao Langheng , Lv Jiawen , Chen Jing , Zheng Feng , Liang Ning
Published: September 2024

Aiming at the problems of high peak value fault current, fast rising speed, and being unable to ensure the reliability of the power supply in the non-fault zone in a multi-terminal DC system, a new cascade flexible current limiter and mechanical DC circuit breaker for medium- and high-voltage distribution networks are proposed. Firstly, the flexible current limiter is triggered by differential under-voltage protection to achieve the effect of interpole voltage clamping, suppressing the fault current and improving the dynamic recovery characteristics of the DC system after fault clearing. Secondly, according to the breaking speed of the DC circuit breaker, the action time of the current limiter can be set flexibly. The directional pilot protection signal of the circuit breaker is used to ensure the continuous action of the current limiter at the converter station side in the fault zone, until the circuit breaker acts to isolate the fault. The protection strategy can also avoid the blocking of the converter station and reduce the requirements for the breaking speed and breaking capacity of the circuit breaker. Finally, a four-terminal medium voltage distribution network model is built in MATLAB/SIMULINK, and the effect of the current limiter and the feasibility of the proposed protection strategy are verified by simulation.
A Simulation-Based Study on Securing Data Sharing for Situational Awareness in a Port Accident Case
Authors: Latvakoski Juhani , Umer Adil , Nykänen Topias , Tihinen Jyrki , Talman Aleksi
Published: September 2024

The cyber–physical systems (CPSs) of various stakeholders from the mobility, logistics, and security sectors are needed to enable smart and secure situational awareness operations in a port environment. The motivation for this research arises from the challenges caused by some unexpected events, such as accidents, in such a multi-stakeholder critical environment. Due to the scale, complexity, and cost and safety challenges, a simulation-based approach was selected as the basis for the study. Prototype-level experimental solutions for dataspaces for secure data sharing and visualization of situational awareness were developed. The secure data-sharing solution relies on the application of verifiable credentials (VCs) to ensure that data consumers have the required access rights to the data/information shared by the data prosumer. A 3D virtual digital twin model is applied for visualizing situational awareness for people in the port. The solutions were evaluated in a simulation-based execution of an accident scenario where a forklift catches fire while loading a docked ship in a port environment. The simulation-based approach and the provided solutions proved to be practical and enabled the smooth study of disaster-type situations. The realized concept of dataspaces is successfully applied here for both daily routine operations and information sharing during accidents in the simulation-based environment. During the evaluation, needs for future research related to perception, comprehension, projection, trust, and security as well as performance and quality of experience were detected. Especially, distributed and secure viewpoints of objects and stakeholders toward real-time situational awareness seem to require further studies.
Experimental Investigations of Assessment of Acute Toxicity of Drilling Mud
Authors: Mamyrbayev Arstan , Bermagambetova Saule , Baytenov Kuanysh , Komekbay Zhanat , Sakebayeva Laura , Satybaldiyeva Umit , Yerimbetova Gulmira , Zhilisbayeva Kulyash
Published: September 2024

At present, the main technological stages of oil production related to drilling operations require the use of a wide variety of drilling mud, which has a complex, multicomponent chemical composition. The drilling mud used and the resulting drilling waste must be safe for human health and the environment. The toxicity and hazard of drilling mud at this point in time remain poorly understood scientific problems and require detailing and studying in toxicological terms. The real degree of hazard and toxicity of drilling mud can only be determined by an experimental method, since its composition, which changes depending on the nature of the technological process and its degree of depletion, is not constant, which can change the toxicological properties. In an experiment conducted on adult male rats, under conditions of a single intragastric injection of drilling mud, new data were obtained regarding the parameters of its toxicity and hazard. The use of a wide variety of methods for determining lethal doses of drilling mud, including the probit analysis method, made it possible not only to substantiate the mean lethal dose of drilling mud but also other parameters of toxicity and survival of animals in the experimental groups. Features of eating behavior and body weight dynamics and the nature of the behavioral reactions revealed by the number and duration of stands and frequency and duration of grooming also indicate the presence of dose-dependent effects.
Determination of Bisphenol Compounds and the Bioaccumulation after Co-Exposure with Polyethylene Microplastics in Zebrafish
Authors: Xue Moyong , Jia Ming , Qin Yuchang , Li Jing , Yao Ting , Francis Frédéric , Gu Xu
Published: September 2024

Knowledge regarding the combined toxicity mechanism of bisphenol compounds and microplastics (MPs) on organisms remains limited. In this study, we first developed an accurate and sensitive method to simultaneously quantify two bisphenol compounds and evaluate their accumulation and tissue distribution after co-exposure with MPs in zebrafish. Then, we determined the bioaccumulation potential of bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS) in adult zebrafish in the absence and presence of MPs. Bisphenol compounds were found to accumulate in different tissues of zebrafish, with BPS showing lower accumulation levels compared to BPA. Importantly, we discovered that the presence of MPs could exacerbate the accumulation of bisphenol compounds in biological tissues. These findings highlight the enhanced bioavailability and risk posed by the co-exposure of bisphenol compounds and MPs, underscoring the need for further investigation into their combined environmental and biological health impacts.
Effects of Propolis Supplementation on Gut Microbiota and Uremic Toxin Profiles of Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Fonseca Larissa , Ribeiro Marcia , Schultz Júnia , Borges Natália A. , Cardozo Ludmila , Leal Viviane O. , Ribeiro-Alves Marcelo , Paiva Bruna R. , Leite Paulo E. C. , Sanz Carmen L. , Kussi Fernanda , Nakao Lia S. , Rosado Alexandre , Stenvinkel Peter , Mafra Denise
Published: September 2024

Background: Propolis possesses many bioactive compounds that could modulate the gut microbiota and reduce the production of uremic toxins in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing hemodialysis (HD). This clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effects of propolis on the gut microbiota profile and uremic toxin plasma levels in HD patients. These are secondary analyses from a previous double-blind, randomized clinical study, with 42 patients divided into two groups: the placebo and propolis group received 400 mg of green propolis extract/day for eight weeks. Indole-3 acetic acid (IAA), indoxyl sulfate (IS), and p-cresyl sulfate (p-CS) plasma levels were evaluated by reversed-phase liquid chromatography, and cytokines were investigated using the multiplex assay (Bio-Plex Magpix®). The fecal microbiota composition was analyzed in a subgroup of patients (n = 6) using a commercial kit for fecal DNA extraction. The V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was then amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using short-read sequencing on the Illumina NovaSeq PE250 platform in a subgroup. Forty-one patients completed the study, 20 in the placebo group and 21 in the propolis group. There was a positive correlation between IAA and TNF-α (r = 0.53, p = 0.01), IL-2 (r = 0.66, p = 0.002), and between pCS and IL-7 (r = 0.46, p = 0.04) at the baseline. No significant changes were observed in the values of uremic toxins after the intervention. Despite not being significant, microbial evenness and observed richness increased following the propolis intervention. Counts of the Fusobacteria species showed a positive correlation with IS, while counts of Firmicutes, Lentisphaerae, and Proteobacteria phyla were negatively correlated with IS. Two months of propolis supplementation did not reduce the plasma levels of uremic toxins (IAA, IS, and p-CS) or change the fecal microbiota.
Gastrointestinal Sequelae of COVID-19: Investigating Post-Infection Complications—A Systematic Review
Authors: Mohammed Ibrahim , Podhala Sudharsan , Zamir Fariha , Shiyam Shamha , Salameh Abdel Rahman , Salahuddin Zoya , Salameh Huda , Kim Chaehyun , Sinan Zena , Kim Jeongyeon , Al-Abdulla Deema , Laws Sa’ad , Mushannen Malik , Zakaria Dalia
Published: September 2024

Gastrointestinal (GI) complications are significant manifestations of COVID-19 and are increasingly being recognized. These complications range from severe acute pancreatitis to colitis, adding complexity to diagnosis and management. A comprehensive database search was conducted using several databases. Our inclusion criteria encompassed studies reporting severe and long-term GI complications of COVID-19. Digestive disorders were categorized into infections, inflammatory conditions, vascular disorders, structural abnormalities, other diagnoses, and undiagnosed conditions. Of the 73 studies that were selected for full-text review, only 24 met our inclusion criteria. The study highlights a broad range of gastrointestinal complications following COVID-19 infection (excluding liver complications, which are examined separately), including inflammatory conditions, such as ulcerative colitis (UC), acute pancreatitis, and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Other GI complications were reported such as vascular disorders, including diverse thrombotic events and structural abnormalities, which ranged from bowel perforations to adhesions. Additionally, undiagnosed conditions like nausea and abdominal pain were prevalent across different studies involving 561 patients. The findings emphasize the substantial impact of COVID-19 on the GI tract. Ongoing research and monitoring are crucial to understanding the long-term effects and developing effective management strategies for these complications.
Kinetic Studies on the Interaction of HIV-1 Gag Protein with the HIV-1 RNA Packaging Signal
Authors: Rink Constance , Kroupa Tomas , Datta Siddhartha A. K. , Rein Alan
Published: September 2024

During HIV-1 virus assembly, the genomic RNA (vRNA) is selected for packaging by the viral protein Gag because it contains a specific packaging signal, Psi. While there have been numerous studies of Gag–Psi interactions, there is almost no information on the kinetic aspects of this interaction. We investigated the kinetics of Gag binding to different RNAs using switchSENSE DRX2 technology. We measured the association rate of Gag binding to monomeric Psi, to a “Multiple Binding Site Mutant” Psi that is inactive for genome packaging in vivo, and to a scrambled Psi. We discovered that Gag binds more rapidly to Psi RNA than to the mutant or scrambled RNAs. Furthermore, rapid Gag association kinetics are retained within sub-regions of Psi: Gag associates more rapidly with RNA containing only the 3′ two of the three Psi stem-loops than with monomeric RNA containing the 5′ two stem-loops or a scrambled RNA. No differences were detectable with individual Psi stem-loops. Interestingly, the rate of binding of Gag molecules to Psi increases with increasing Gag concentration, suggesting cooperativity in binding. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that selectivity in packaging derives from kinetic differences in initiation of particle assembly.
Correction: Garcia-Oliveira et al. YELLOW ALERT: Persistent Yellow Fever Virus Circulation among Non-Human Primates in Urban Areas of Minas Gerais State, Brazil (2021–2023). Viruses 2024, 16, 31
Authors: Garcia-Oliveira Gabriela F. , Guimarães Anna Catarina Dias Soares , Moreira Gabriel Dias , Costa Thais Alkifeles , Arruda Matheus Soares , de Mello Érica Munhoz , Silva Marlise Costa , de Almeida Munique Guimarães , Hanley Kathryn A. , Vasilakis Nikos , Drumond Betânia Paiva
Published: September 2024

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