bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing Dietary Polyunsaturated to Saturated Fatty Acids Ratio Improves Lipid and Glucose Metabolism in Obese Zucker Rats
Authors: Carta Gianfranca , Murru Elisabetta , Trinchese Giovanna , Cavaliere Gina , Manca Claudia , Mollica Maria Pina , Banni Sebastiano
Published: November 2023

We investigated the influence of varying dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)/saturated fatty acids (SFA) ratios on insulin resistance (IR), fatty acid metabolism, N-acylethanolamine (NAE) bioactive metabolite levels, and mitochondrial function in lean and obese Zucker rats in a model designed to study obesity and IR from overnutrition. We provided diets with 7% fat (w/w), with either a low PUFA/SFA ratio of 0.48, predominantly comprising palmitic acid (PA), (diet-PA), or the standard AIN-93G diet with a high PUFA/SFA ratio of 3.66 (control, diet-C) over eight weeks. In obese rats on diet-PA versus diet-C, there were reductions in plasma triglycerides, cholesterol, glucose, insulin concentrations and improved muscle mitochondrial function, inflammatory markers and increased muscle N-oleoylethanolamine (OEA), a bioactive lipid that modulates lipid metabolism and metabolic flexibility. Elevated palmitic acid levels were found exclusively in obese rats, regardless of their diet, implying an endogenous production through de novo lipogenesis rather than from a dietary origin. In conclusion, a reduced dietary PUFA/SFA ratio positively influenced glucose and lipid metabolism without affecting long-term PA tissue concentrations. This likely occurs due to an increase in OEA biosynthesis, improving metabolic flexibility in obese rats. Our results hint at a pivotal role for balanced dietary PA in countering the effects of overnutrition-induced obesity.
Prognostic Nutritional Index Is a Predictive Marker for Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Adult Degenerative Scoliosis
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Du You , Zhao Yiwei , Yang Yang , Zhang Jianguo , Wang Shengru
Published: November 2023

Our aim was to ascertain whether the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), could predict the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS) undergoing corrective surgery. We conducted a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients diagnosed with ADS between January 2013 and June 2021. Three nutritional parameters were employed for analysis (PNI, anemia, and hypoalbuminemia). We utilized the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaire to assess clinical outcomes. Following the epidemiology guidelines, we presented results from three different models: the crude model, minimally adjusted model, and fully adjusted model. A total of 316 ADS patients were included in the statistical analysis. There was no significant difference in sagittal plane radiographic parameters between the two groups. After adjusting for important confounding factors, PNI was an independent predictor of postoperative HRQOL. Specifically, for each one-unit increase in PNI, there was an approximately 20% higher likelihood of patients achieving a better HRQOL. Furthermore, we did not observe an association between hemoglobin levels or albumin levels and HRQOL. In this study, PNI has been demonstrated to be correlated with the postoperative HRQOL in patients with ADS undergoing corrective surgery.
Imperatorin Restores Chemosensitivity of Multidrug-Resistant Cancer Cells by Antagonizing ABCG2-Mediated Drug Transport
Authors: Wu Chung-Pu , Murakami Megumi , Li Yen-Ching , Huang Yang-Hui , Chang Yu-Tzu , Hung Tai-Ho , Wu Yu-Shan , Ambudkar Suresh V.
Published: November 2023

The high expression of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) drug transporter ABCG2 in cancer cells contributes to the emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) in individuals afflicted with either solid tumors or blood cancers. MDR poses a major impediment in the realm of clinical cancer chemotherapy. Recently, substantial endeavors have been dedicated to identifying bioactive compounds isolated from nature capable of counteracting ABCG2-mediated MDR in cancer cells. Imperatorin, a natural coumarin derivative renowned for its diverse pharmacological properties, has not previously been explored for its impact on cancer drug resistance. This study investigates the chemosensitizing potential of imperatorin in ABCG2-overexpressing cancer cells. Experimental results reveal that at sub-toxic concentrations, imperatorin significantly antagonizes the activity of ABCG2 and reverses ABCG2-mediated MDR in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, biochemical data and in silico analysis of imperatorin docking to the inward-open conformation of human ABCG2 indicate that imperatorin directly interacts with multiple residues situated within the transmembrane substrate-binding pocket of ABCG2. Taken together, these results furnish substantiation that imperatorin holds promise for further evaluation as a potent inhibitor of ABCG2, warranting exploration in combination drug therapy to enhance the effectiveness of therapeutic agents for patients afflicted with tumors that exhibit high levels of ABCG2.
Challenges Related to Acquisition of Physiological Data for Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Models in Postpartum, Lactating Women and Breastfed Infants—A Contribution from the ConcePTION Project
Authors: Van Neste Martje , Bogaerts Annick , Nauwelaerts Nina , Macente Julia , Smits Anne , Annaert Pieter , Allegaert Karel
Published: November 2023

Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling is a bottom-up approach to predict pharmacokinetics in specific populations based on population-specific and medicine-specific data. Using an illustrative approach, this review aims to highlight the challenges of incorporating physiological data to develop postpartum, lactating women and breastfed infant PBPK models. For instance, most women retain pregnancy weight during the postpartum period, especially after excessive gestational weight gain, while breastfeeding might be associated with lower postpartum weight retention and long-term weight control. Based on a structured search, an equation for human milk intake reported the maximum intake of 153 mL/kg/day in exclusively breastfed infants at 20 days, which correlates with a high risk for medicine reactions at 2–4 weeks in breastfed infants. Furthermore, the changing composition of human milk and its enzymatic activities could affect pharmacokinetics in breastfed infants. Growth in breastfed infants is slower and gastric emptying faster than in formula-fed infants, while a slower maturation of specific metabolizing enzymes in breastfed infants has been described. The currently available PBPK models for these populations lack structured systematic acquisition of population-specific data. Future directions include systematic searches to fully identify physiological data. Following data integration as mathematical equations, this holds the promise to improve postpartum, lactation and infant PBPK models.
Methylene Blue Optical Fiber Sensor Filled with Calcium Alginate Hydrogel
Authors: Wang Ning , Liu Wenting , Liu Shiqi , Xu Liang , Wang Longjiao , He Ming , Fang Dong
Published: November 2023

As it is a typical dye pollutant in water, methylene blue detection is important to health and environmental safety. A kind of methylene blue optical fiber sensor was successfully fabricated, which was highly sensitive, responded linearly, was easy to manufacture and was low cost. The sensor was composed of a capillary glass tube, single-mode fiber and calcium alginate hydrogel. The interference spectrum of the optical fiber F–P cavity successfully responded to the methylene blue solution. The response sensitivity of 2.46 nm/(mg/L) was obtained with the typical sensor with a 39.18 μm cavity length. The linearity of the experiment curve was 0.99247. Furthermore, the influence of sodium alginate concentrations on sensitivity was also investigated. The results showed that the sodium alginate concentration had an optimum value. In addition, the dynamic response characteristic was tested. A 25 s response time was obtained with testing using a typical sensor, which showed a fast response time. The sensor has the potential to be applied to online methylene blue detection.
Suppression for Phase Error of Fringe Projection Profilometry Using Outlier-Detection Model: Development of an Easy and Accurate Method for Measurement
Authors: Dong Guangxi , Sun Xiang , Kong Lingbao , Peng Xing
Published: November 2023

Fringe projection is an important technology in three-dimensional measurement and target recognition. The measurement accuracy depends heavily on the calibration of the absolute phase and projector pixels. An easy-to-implement calibration method based on the Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) algorithm is proposed to exterminate the phase error data and elevate the measurement accuracy in a fringe projection system. The reconstruction experiments of a double-sphere standard demonstrate that the uncertainties in radius and sphere-distance measurement are reduced to one thousandth of the measured value or even less, and the standard deviation in multiple measurements is restricted to within 50 μm. The measurement accuracy provided by the proposed RANSAC method can be improved by up to 44% compared with that provided by traditional least squared method (LSM). The proposed calibration method is easy and simple to implement, and it does not need additional hardware, but rather a calibration board.
Stretchable, Adhesive, and Biocompatible Hydrogel Based on Iron–Dopamine Complexes
Authors: Lee Celine , Huang He-Shin , Wang Yun-Ying , Zhang You-Sheng , Chakravarthy Rajan Deepan , Yeh Mei-Yu , Lin Hsin-Chieh , Wei Jeng
Published: November 2023

Hydrogels’ exceptional mechanical strength and skin-adhesion characteristics offer significant advantages for various applications, particularly in the fields of tissue adhesion and wearable sensors. Herein, we incorporated a combination of metal-coordination and hydrogen-bonding forces in the design of stretchable and adhesive hydrogels. We synthesized four hydrogels, namely PAID-0, PAID-1, PAID-2, and PAID-3, consisting of acrylamide (AAM), N,N′-methylene-bis-acrylamide (MBA), and methacrylic-modified dopamine (DA). The impact of different ratios of iron (III) ions to DA on each hydrogel’s performance was investigated. Our results demonstrate that the incorporation of iron–dopamine complexes significantly enhances the mechanical strength of the hydrogel. Interestingly, as the DA content increased, we observed a continuous and substantial improvement in both the stretchability and skin adhesiveness of the hydrogel. Among the hydrogels tested, PAID-3, which exhibited optimal mechanical properties, was selected for adhesion testing on various materials. Impressively, PAID-3 demonstrated excellent adhesion to diverse materials and, combined with the low cytotoxicity of PAID hydrogel, holds great promise as an innovative option for biomedical engineering applications.
Porous Polymer Materials in Triboelectric Nanogenerators: A Review
Authors: Mi Yajun , Zhao Zequan , Wu Han , Lu Yin , Wang Ning
Published: November 2023

Since the invention of the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG), porous polymer materials (PPMs), with different geometries and topologies, have been utilized to enhance the output performance and expand the functionality of TENGs. In this review, the basic characteristics and preparation methods of various PPMs are introduced, along with their applications in TENGs on the basis of their roles as electrodes, triboelectric surfaces, and structural materials. According to the pore size and dimensionality, various types of TENGs that are built with hydrogels, aerogels, foams, and fibrous media are classified and their advantages and disadvantages are analyzed. To deepen the understanding of the future development trend, their intelligent and multifunctional applications in human–machine interfaces, smart wearable devices, and self-powering sensors are introduced. Finally, the future directions and challenges of PPMs in TENGs are explored to provide possible guidance on PPMs in various TENG-based intelligent devices and systems.
Advanced Anticorrosive Graphene Oxide-Doped Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Nanocomposite Coating Derived from Leucaena leucocephala Oil
Authors: Al-otaibi Wejdan , Alandis Naser M. , Al-Mohammad Yasser M. , Alam Manawwer
Published: November 2023

Metal corrosion poses a substantial economic challenge in a technologically advanced world. In this study, novel environmentally friendly anticorrosive graphene oxide (GO)-doped organic-inorganic hybrid polyurethane (LFAOIH@GO-PU) nanocomposite coatings were developed from Leucaena leucocephala oil (LLO). The formulation was produced by the amidation reaction of LLO to form diol fatty amide followed by the reaction of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and a dispersion of GOx (X = 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 wt%) along with the reaction of isophorane diisocyanate (IPDI) (25–40 wt%) to form LFAOIH@GOx-PU35 nanocomposites. The synthesized materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR); 1H, 13C, and 29Si nuclear magnetic resonance; and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. A detailed examination of LFAOIH@GO0.5-PU35 morphology was conducted using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. These studies revealed distinctive surface roughness features along with a contact angle of around 88 G.U preserving their structural integrity at temperatures of up to 235 °C with minimal loading of GO. Additionally, improved mechanical properties, including scratch hardness (3 kg), pencil hardness (5H), impact resistance, bending, gloss value (79), crosshatch adhesion, and thickness were evaluated with the dispersion of GO. Electrochemical corrosion studies, involving Nyquist, Bode, and Tafel plots, provided clear evidence of the outstanding anticorrosion performance of the coatings.
Holographic Properties of Irgacure 784/PMMA Photopolymer Doped with SiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Jundi , Fu Qingyang , Zhang Yaping , Zhang Bing
Published: November 2023

To enhance the holographic properties, one of the main methods is increasing the solubility of the photosensitizer and modifying the components to improve the modulation of the refractive index in the photopolymer. This study provides evidence, through the introduction of a mutual diffusion model, that the incorporation of SiO2 nanoparticles in photopolymers can effectively enhance the degree of refractive index modulation, consequently achieving the objective of improving the holographic performance of the materials. Different concentrations of SiO2 nanoparticles have been introduced into highly soluble photosensitizer Irgacure 784 (solubility up to 10wt%)-doped poly-methyl methacrylate (Irgacure 784/PMMA) photopolymers. Holographic measurement experiments have been performed on the prepared samples, and the experiments have demonstrated that the Irgacure 784/PMMA photopolymer doped with 1.0 × 10−3wt% SiO2 nanoparticles exhibits the highest diffraction efficiency (74.5%), representing an approximate 30% increase in diffraction efficiency as compared to an undoped photopolymer. Finally, we have successfully achieved the recording of real objects on SiO2/Irgacure 784/PMMA photopolymers, demonstrated by the SiO2/Irgacure 784/PMMA photopolymer material prepared in this study, which exhibits promising characteristics for holographic storage applications. The strategy of doping nanoparticles (Nps) in Irgacure 784/PMMA photopolymers has also provided a new approach for achieving high-capacity holographic storage in the future.
Modelling of Drinking Water Recarbonization in Fluidized Bed Reactor
Authors: Derco Ján , Šoltýsová Nikola , Kurák Tomáš , Vajíčeková Anna , Dudáš Jozef
Published: November 2023

Calcium and magnesium are important not only for human health but also for reducing problems related to the corrosive and aggressive effects of soft water on drinking water distribution materials. Experimental and mathematical modeling of the recarbonization process aimed at increasing the content of these biogenic elements in water was carried out using the novelty of continuous laboratory- and pilot-scale fluidized bed reactors. A methodology for scaling-up the modeled system was extended with mathematical modeling. Water remineralization was performed using half-calcined dolomite (HCD) and CO2. The influence of operating conditions, i.e., Q(CO2), freshwater inflow, and HCD dose, on quality indicators of treated drinking water (c(Ca2+), c(Mg2+), c(Ca2+ + Mg2+) and Ca/Mg) was studied. Results show that the Mg2+ concentration is more significantly affected by the amount of HCD in the system and the flow of CO2, while the effect of freshwater inflow is less significant. At constant CO2 flow, the Ca2+ content decreases and the Mg2+ content increases as the tap water inflow increases, which results in a decrease in the Ca/Mg molar ratio. However, the Ca/Mg ratio can be effectively controlled by adding an appropriate amount of HCD at certain time intervals. Overproduction of ions is easily controlled by the CO2 flow.
Production and Purification of Soy Leghemoglobin from Pichia pastoris Cultivated in Different Expression Media
Authors: Bolmanis Emils , Bogans Janis , Akopjana Inara , Suleiko Arturs , Kazaka Tatjana , Kazaks Andris
Published: November 2023

Plant-based meat alternatives, exemplified by Impossible Foods’ Impossible Burger, offer a sustainable, ethical substitute for traditional meat, closely mimicking the taste and appearance of meat by utilizing soy leghemoglobin (LegH), a 16 kDa holoprotein found in soy plants structurally similar to heme in animal meat. Cultivation medium plays an important role in bioprocess development; however, medium development or optimization can be labor intensive, and thus the use of previously reported media can be enticing. In this study, we explored the expression of recombinant LegH in Pichia pastoris in various reported cultivation media (BSM, BMGY, FM22, D’Anjou, BSM/2, and RDM) and using different feeding approaches (µ-stat and mixed feed with sorbitol). Our findings indicate that optimization techniques tailored to the specific process did not increase LegH yields, highlighting the need to investigate strain-specific strategies. We also utilized the collected process data to create and train a novel artificial neural network-based soft sensor for estimating cell biomass, relying solely on standard bioreactor measurements (such as stirrer speed, dissolved oxygen, O2 enrichment, base feed, glycerol feed, methanol feed, and reactor volume). This soft sensor proved to be robust and exhibited a strong correlation (3.72% WCW) with experimental data.
Simulation of Biogas Upgrading by Sorption-Enhanced Methanation with CaO in a Dual Interconnected Fluidized Bed System
Authors: Massa Fiorella , Scala Fabrizio , Coppola Antonio
Published: November 2023

In this work, ASPENplus was used to simulate biogas upgrading by sorption-enhanced methanation in a dual interconnected bubbling fluidized bed configuration using inexpensive, abundant, and eco-friendly CaO to remove H2O from the reaction environment. The chemical looping scheme consisted of two reactors: a methanator/hydrator, where the catalytic reactions occurred on a catalyst with 20% Ni supported on alumina as well as the steam removal by CaO, and a regenerator, where the Ca(OH)2 was dehydrated back to CaO. The simulations were carried out to identify possible reactant compositions (H2 and biogas), CaO amount, and the methanation temperature able to produce an outlet gas matching the specifications for direct grid injection. When considering a stoichiometric gas feed ratio at the methanator inlet, the unwanted CaO carbonation worsened the process performance, subtracting CO2 from the desired methanation reaction. However, optimal conditions were found with hydrogen-lean gas feedings, balancing the limited H2 amount with the capture of CO2 due to the sorbent carbonation. Thermodynamic considerations pointed out the possibility of solid carbon formation induced by sorption-enhanced methanation conditions, especially for H2 sub-stoichiometric feedings.
An Overview of Management Status and Recycling Strategies for Plastic Packaging Waste in China
Authors: Yu Chaojie , Jin Diyi , Hu Xichao , He Wenzhi , Li Guangming
Published: November 2023

Given their exceptional performance, plastic packaging products are widely used in daily life, and the dramatic expansion in plastic packaging waste (PPW) has exacerbated environmental problems. Many countries have enacted laws and developed recycling technologies to manage plastic packaging waste in consideration of the nature of PPW as both garbage and a resource. As the world’s largest producer and consumer of plastics, China has also taken measures to address this issue. This paper presents the latest management regulations and recycling strategies for PPW in China. Based on an analysis of the current management status of PPW and recycling technologies and their carbon emission impacts, some management suggestions and a comprehensive full-chain recycling process were put forward. We supposed that management challenges that need to be overcome in the future can be solved through the improvement of green designs for plastic packaging, manufacturing technology updates, consumption concept changes, and the high-value utilization of PPW. This paper aims to provide valuable references for government decisions on PPW management and, furthermore, to set up an economically sensible and industrially feasible PPW solution and boost the development of PPW recycling.
Exploring the 5Rs Holistic Model for Zero Food Waste in Saudi Arabian Food Service Outlets
Authors: Sobaih Abu Elnasr E. , Abu Elnasr Ahmed E.
Published: November 2023

Background: The proportion of food waste in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly in food service outlets, sends an important and urgent call for a holistic model to either prevent or at least properly manage this high level of food waste. This study draws on the European Union Waste Hierarchy Framework and the United States Environmental Protection Agency Food Recovery Framework to develop a holistic model to manage the high rate of food waste in Saudi food service outlets. Methods: This study adopted the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research using one-to-one interviews with food service experts to explore the current and appropriate practices for food waste prevention. The in-depth interviews discussed the implementation of the 5Rs hierarchy, which includes reducing food surplus and waste at the source, redistributing food surplus to needy people, reusing food surplus/waste, recycling food waste, and recovering food waste benefits, i.e., bioenergy production. Results: The successful implementation of the 5Rs hierarchy depends on effective collaboration between the key stakeholders, i.e., policy makers, food industry administrators, non-governmental organizations, and customers. The effective management of the food supply chain is also vital to avoid food surplus and prevent waste in food service outlets. Additionally, sustainable production by staff and responsible consumption by consumers contribute effectively to the implementation of the 5Rs model, which contributes to the achievement of zero food waste and, ultimately, to sustainable development. Conclusions: This study provided a novel hierarchy model, which has five tiers, aiming to avoid food waste. The successful implementation of this model will lead to several significant positive impacts on the economy, community, and environment.
Religious History in Portugal from Lusitania Sacra (1720) to the Enciclopédia de História Religiosa (2023): An Overview
Authors: Pinto Sérgio Ribeiro
Published: November 2023

The religious history in Portugal remains fragmented despite the progress made, especially in the last four decades, compared with other European historiographies. This article intends to identify factors that explain the Portuguese religious history landscape through an exhaustive diachronic presentation of the main works and authors. It aims to present the fundamental milestones of the field’s evolution, both thematically and institutionally. The ambiguous relationship between national memory and the hegemonic Catholic religious tradition, the ideological and political debates surrounding the late modern reset of national identity benchmarks, and the impacts of a dictatorial experience that conditioned the academic landscape for almost 50 years are the reasons for the late emergence of religious history in Portugal and its discreet presence in the academy. After establishing the essential chronology and underlining the main results, this article will outline Portuguese religious historiography’s most pressing tasks and challenges.
Constructing Mary through Pilgrimages: Lived Catholic Mariology in Poland
Authors: Niedźwiedź Anna
Published: November 2023

This article presents selected aspects of Marian pilgrimages in the context of lived Catholicism in Poland. Lived Catholic Mariology is a concept introduced in this paper and discussed in terms of the intimate as well as communal relationships people establish with Mary through and in various rituals (e.g., pilgrimages), sites (e.g., shrines) and objects (e.g., images). Links between materializing Mary through images; affective, sensual and corporeal religious experiences; and community bonding are presented. They are discussed by drawing on approaches that refer to material religion, religion as mediation, concepts of sensational forms, and aesthetic formations. When examining the centrality of Marian images in Polish pilgrimage practices, this paper focuses on earlier developments, especially (1) those connected with the growth of Marian shrines during the Counter Reformation period and (2) the role played by traditional and innovative Marian pilgrimages during the Communist period in Poland (1945–1989). The final part of the paper refers to the recent changes connected with political polarization of Polish society, the process of radicalization through right-wing discourses that embrace Marian imagery and pilgrimages, the decline of Roman Catholicism and Catholic practices among Poles, and emerging alternative currents relating to Mary and pilgrimages in religious and secular contexts. Referring to various historical and current examples, this paper proposes seeing pilgrimages through the lived religion approach with a focus on materiality and mediatory dimension of religion.
Deep Unfolding Sparse Bayesian Learning Network for Off-Grid DOA Estimation with Nested Array
Authors: Gong Zhenghui , Su Xiaolong , Hu Panhe , Liu Shuowei , Liu Zhen
Published: November 2023

Recently, deep unfolding networks have been widely used in direction of arrival (DOA) estimation because of their improved estimation accuracy and reduced computational cost. However, few have considered the existence of a nested array (NA) with off-grid DOA estimation. In this study, we present a deep sparse Bayesian learning (DSBL) network to solve this problem. We first establish the signal model for off-grid DOA with NA. Then, we transform the array output into a real domain for neural networks. Finally, we construct and train the DSBL network to determine the on-grid spatial spectrum and off-grid value, where the loss function is calculated using reconstruction error and the sparsity of network output, and the layers correspond to the steps of the sparse Bayesian learning algorithm. We demonstrate that the DSBL network can achieve better generalization ability without training labels and large-scale training data. The simulation results validate the effectiveness of the DSBL network when compared with those of existing methods.
Development of GNSS Buoy for Sea Surface Elevation Observation of Offshore Wind Farm
Authors: Liang Guanhui , Li Shujiang , Bao Ke , Wang Guanlin , Teng Fei , Zhang Fengye , Wang Yanfeng , Guan Sheng , Wei Zexun
Published: November 2023

This study presents the development and testing of a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) buoy designed for measuring the sea surface elevation and tide level. The precision-point-positioning (PPP) technology is adopted for precise observation. The design of the buoy body is optimized by stability and hydrodynamic calculations. A high-performance embedded data acquisition system with big storage and high-frequency sampling is developed for long-term observation. The GNSS buoy is deployed in a wind farm approximately 70 km offshore of China, and undergoes a 60-day ocean test. A comparison of the sea level elevations obtained from the GNSS buoy and the pressure sensor shows that there is a strong correlation between them, with a correlation coefficient of 0.99. A harmonic analysis is applied to derive the harmonic constants for four key tidal components (M2, S2, O1, and K1). The amplitude differences are −1.2 cm, 1.4 cm, −0.6 cm, and −1.2 cm, respectively, and the phase differences are 1.8°, 2.2°, −1.3°, and −2.9°, respectively. The strong correlation between the measurements of the GNSS buoy and the pressure sensor and the relatively small differences of the amplitude and phase of the main tidal components indicate that the compact GNSS buoy demonstrates a capability to continuously measure the sea surface elevation and tide level with an elevation reference in the open sea.
Computational Intelligence in Remote Sensing
Authors: Wu Yue , Gong Maoguo , Miao Qiguang , Qin Kai
Published: November 2023

With the development of Earth observation techniques, vast amounts of remote sensing data with a high spectral–spatial–temporal resolution are captured all the time, and remote sensing data processing and analysis have been successfully used in numerous fields, including geography, environmental monitoring, land survey, disaster management, mineral exploration and more [...]
Dynamics of Spring Snow Cover Variability over Northeast China
Authors: Zhang Taotao , Wang Xiaoyi
Published: November 2023

Spring snow cover variability over Northeast China (NEC) has a profound influence on the local grain yield and even the food security of the country, but its drivers remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated the spatiotemporal features and the underlying mechanisms of spring snow cover variability over NEC during 1983–2018 based on the satellite-derived snow cover data and atmospheric reanalysis products. The empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis showed that the first EOF mode (EOF1) explains about 50% of the total variances and characterizes a coherent snow cover variability pattern over NEC. Further analyses suggested that the formation of the EOF1 mode is jointly affected by the atmospheric internal variability and the sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly at the interannual timescale. Specifically, following a negative phase of the atmospheric teleconnection of the Polar–Eurasian pattern, a prominent cyclonic circulation appears over NEC, which increases the snowfall over the east of NEC by enhancing the water vapor transport and decreases the air temperature through reducing the solar radiation and intensifying the cold advection. As a result, the snow cover has increased over NEC. Additionally, the tripole structure of the North Atlantic spring SST anomaly could excite a wave-train-type anomalous circulation propagating to NEC that further regulates the snow cover variability by altering the atmospheric dynamic and thermodynamic conditions and the resultant air temperature and snowfall. Our results have important implications on the understanding of the spring snow cover anomaly over NEC and the formulation of the local agricultural production plan.
Correction: Lanz et al. The InflateSAR Campaign: Developing Refugee Vessel Detection Capabilities with Polarimetric SAR. Remote Sens. 2023, 15, 2008
Authors: Lanz Peter , Marino Armando , Simpson Morgan David , Brinkhoff Thomas , Köster Frank , Möller Matthias
Published: November 2023

In the original publication [...]
Mineral Nitrogen Release Patterns in Various Soil and Texture Types and the Impact of Urea and Coated Urea Potassium Humate on Barley Biomass
Authors: Swify Samar , Mažeika Romas , Volungevičius Jonas
Published: November 2023

Controlled-release urea fertilization is an innovative approach and effective means to reduce the loss of nitrogen and enhance fertilizer use efficiency to optimize crop yield while minimizing the environmental impact. The objective of this study was to investigate the dynamic process of mineral nitrogen (Nmin) release in Luvisols, Cambisols, Retisols, and Arenosols to understand the interaction between soil characteristics and mineral nitrogen release and evaluate the impact of conventional urea compared to coated urea potassium humate on barley biomass production. A pot experiment was conducted under glasshouse conditions (20 ± 2 °C and 60% Humidity). Five treatments including no fertilization as a control (C), 100 kg·N·ha−1 of urea (U100), 200 kg·N·ha−1 of urea (U200), 100 kg·N·ha−1 of coated urea potassium humate (UPH100), and 200 kg·N·ha−1 of coated urea potassium humate (UPH200) were applied to four soil and texture types. Our findings indicate that there are different patterns of mineral nitrogen release across the different soil and texture types. Ammonium levels reached their peak point in all soils within 2–7 days after application. On the other hand, the concentration of nitrate NO3−–N showed a linear increase over 45 days during the experiment. The Retisol, which had a sandy clay texture, obtained the highest concentration of mineral nitrogen in both forms (NH4 and NO3), while the sandy texture of Arenosol showed the lowest accumulation of mineral nitrogen and its forms. The application of potassium humate caused a delay of 1–4 days in the peak of soil ammonium, which at peak accounted for approximately 25–44% of the mineral nitrogen in the soil. Furthermore, the application of urea and coated urea potassium humate exhibited significant effects on barley biomass with an increase of approximately 14–91% compared to the unfertilized treatment (control). This research contributes to our understanding of nutrient dynamics in diverse soil environments and provides insights into optimizing sustainable fertilization strategies such as controlled-release fertilizer application. The implications of these findings highlight the significance of tailored nutrient management practices based on soil texture type, which can lead to improved agricultural productivity and environmental impact.
Pre-Event Self-Efficacy and Sports Performance: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lochbaum Marc , Sisneros Cassandra , Cooper Sydney , Terry Peter C.
Published: November 2023

The relationship between self-efficacy and performance exclusively within the sports environment is yet to be quantified. Hence, we meta-analysed this relationship by following the PRISMA guidelines. Two previous meta-analyses, five relevant databases, and Google Scholar were searched. Forty-four articles published between 1983 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria, with 55 independent samples. Comprehensive meta-analysis software version 4 was used for all meta-analytic calculations using a random-effects model to calculate the mean effect size, and a mixed-effects model was used for moderation analyses. The mean pre-event self-efficacy and performance effect size was r = 0.31 (95% CI 0.22, 0.40). For moderation analyses, notable mean differences (p values ≥ 0.08) resulted for concordance [concordant (r = 0.37), nonconcordant (r = 0.22)], sports skill [closed (r = 0.37), open (r = 0.23)], and athlete level [elite (r = 0.40), sub-elite (r = 0.28)]. The true effect prediction interval ranged from negative (i.e., self-efficacy impairing performance) to positive (self-efficacy improving performance) for all moderator variables except self-referenced vs. other-referenced performance. In conclusion, the relationship between pre-event self-efficacy and performance is positive and moderate in magnitude, although with prediction intervals ranging from debilitating to facilitating performance. Researchers and practitioners should note that high athlete-rated self-efficacy might not always improve impending competitive sports performance.
A Comprehensive Study of Emotional Responses in AI-Enhanced Interactive Installation Art
Authors: Chen Xiaowei , Ibrahim Zainuddin
Published: November 2023

This study presents a comprehensive literature review on the convergence of affective computing, interactive installation art, multi-dimensional sensory stimulation, and artificial intelligence (AI) in measuring emotional responses, demonstrating the potential of artificial intelligence in emotion recognition as a tool for sustainable development. It addresses the problem of understanding emotional response and measurement in the context of interactive installation art under artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing sustainability as a key factor. The study aims to fill the existing research gaps by examining three key aspects: sensory stimulation, multi-dimensional interactions, and engagement, which have been identified as significant contributors to profound emotional responses in interactive installation art. The proposed approach involves conducting a process analysis of emotional responses to interactive installation art, aiming to develop a conceptual framework that explores the variables influencing emotional responses. This study formulates hypotheses that make specific predictions about the relationships between sensory stimulation, multi-dimensional interactions, engagement, and emotional responses. By employing the ASSURE model combined with experimental design, the research methodology ensures a systematic and comprehensive study implementation. The implications of this project lie in advancing the understanding of emotional experiences in interactive installation art under AI, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms that drive these experiences, and their influence on individual well-being from a sustainable perspective. The contributions of this research include bridging the identified research gaps, refining theoretical frameworks, and guiding the design of more impactful and emotionally resonant interactive artworks with sustainability in mind. This research seeks not only to fill the existing gaps in understanding emotional experiences in interactive installation art, but also to guide the development of immersive and emotionally engaging installations, ultimately advancing the broader field of human–computer interaction, promoting individual well-being, and contribute to sustainable development.
A Synergy Effect of Consumer Orientation and Disruptive Information on Choice in Remanufactured Products
Authors: Chinen Kenichiro , Matsumoto Mitsutaka , Chinen Ai
Published: November 2023

Consumers typically exhibit loyalty unless swayed by decisions rooted in rational choice theory, encompassing preferences, information, costs, and gains. Convincing newness-oriented consumers to shift beliefs and embrace ‘like new’ products, especially those drawn to novelty, is difficult. While consumer orientation might seem tied to purchase intention, this study delves into the potential of disruptive information to encourage consumers to revise their perceptions of remanufactured products that may have previously escaped their consideration. Doing so aims to enhance consumers’ openness to embracing a circular economy. The research was conducted with a sample size of 1200 Japanese consumers. Remanufactured batteries were used as an illustrative example. The findings suggest that educating consumers through infographics could increase the acceptance of remanufactured batteries. We observed that when infographic information and consumer orientation work together, they produce a synergy effect, resulting in more impact than expected if they were considered separately. This approach could influence purchasing decisions and promote sustainability by emphasizing the economic and environmental benefits.
The Crucial Role of Green Soft Skills and Leadership for Sustainability: A Case Study of an Italian Small and Medium Enterprise Operating in the Food Sector
Authors: Farao Caterina , Bernuzzi Chiara , Ronchetti Chiara
Published: November 2023

Increasing concerns about the human impact on the environment are leading to new challenges for companies and their employees. Specifically, the food industry is facing the need to provide sustainable services, requiring a specialized and skilled workforce. This article presents a case study of an Italian sustainable Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) operating in the food sector in order to determine the drivers of working for this company, the key skills needed, and the Green Human Resource Management practices adopted. A total of 13 semi-structured interviews were conducted with employees and thematically analyzed. The findings showed that soft skills were perceived as more relevant than hard skills, although the food sector is characterized by high technical complexity and subjected to several national and international regulations. Moreover, the crucial role of organizational culture in determining the relevance of soft skills within the company and in fostering the implementation of the holacracy organizational management method emerged. Finally, by detecting the relevance recognized to values and soft skills during the recruitment and selection process, our findings provided some evidence of Green Human Resource Management in sustainable SMEs.
Changing the Level of Education and Career Choice Depending on the Socioeconomic Status of the Family: Evidence from Azerbaijan
Authors: Namazova Natavan
Published: November 2023

Education plays an important role in the fight against poverty and contributes to the formation of human capital by increasing the knowledge and skills of the individual. It increases the educational opportunities for future generations, provides more opportunities to participate in public life, and makes a significant contribution to social development. Education is influenced by various factors. One of the main factors influencing education is the socio-economic conditions of family life. This study explores the relationship between the socio-economic status of the family and the level of education in Azerbaijan. To this end, the influence of two main independent variables, namely, the influence of family elders and family income, on the level of education of an individual was studied. As a result of the study, it was found that mothers compared to grandparents and grandparents compared to fathers have a positive impact on the level of education of children. It was also found that household income is a determining factor in choosing a risky career and that children from families with an upper middle income are especially more positive than those from low income families.
Evaluation of Selected Empirical Models for Asphalt Pavement Temperature Prediction in a Tropical Climate: The Case of Ghana
Authors: Ntramah Simon , Tutu Kenneth A. , Tuffour Yaw A. , Adams Charles A. , Adanu Emmanuel Kofi
Published: November 2023

Asphalt pavement temperature has several applications, including pavement structural design and evaluation, asphalt mixture design, asphalt binder grade determination and material aging characterization. However, available asphalt pavement temperature prediction models were mostly developed for temperate climatic conditions. Before such models are adopted for use in a tropical climate to facilitate advanced pavement engineering, their applicability must be verified. This study evaluated five empirical asphalt pavement temperature prediction models: the Lukanen (BELLS 3), Park, Diefenderfer, and Taamneh models, all developed in the United States, and the Asefzadeh model, formulated in Canada, to ascertain their prediction accuracy in a tropical climate, using the West African country Ghana as a case study. The results of such a model evaluation study will justify the adoption of existing models for local application or the development of new ones suitable for tropical climates. In this study, in situ asphalt pavement temperature data were measured at two sites for eight months: Kumasi and Tamale in the Forest and Savannah climatic zones, respectively. The measured pavement temperature data were compared with predicted pavement temperatures using the two independent-samples t-test, the coefficient of determination, the line of equality, and three error statistics (mean bias error, mean percentage error and root mean square error). It was found that the Park model provided a more accurate pavement temperature prediction in both climatic zones. The other models either over-predicted or under-predicted asphalt pavement temperature with significant error margins. However, there is a need to improve the prediction accuracy of the Park model as considerable over-prediction occurred at a temperature of at least 47 °C or a local model developed.
Iron Ore Price Prediction Based on Multiple Linear Regression Model
Authors: Wang Yanyi , Guo Zhenwei , Zhang Yunrui , Hu Xiangping , Xiao Jianping
Published: November 2023

The fluctuation of iron ore prices is one of the most important factors affecting policy. Therefore, the accurate prediction of iron ore prices has significant value in analysis and judgment regarding future changes in policies. In this study, we propose a correlation analysis to extract eight influencing factors of iron ore prices and introduce multiple linear regression analysis to the prediction. With historical data, we establish a model to forecast iron ore prices from 2020 to 2024. Taking prices in 2018 and 2019 as samples to test the applicability of the model, we obtain an acceptable level of error between the predicted iron ore prices and the actual prices. The prediction model based on multiple linear regression has high prediction accuracy. Iron ore prices will show a relatively stable upward trend over the next five years without the effects of COVID-19.
Pathways and Interactions for Integrating Mechanisation into Sustainable Agricultural Production: The Case of Rice Production in Asutsuare, Ghana
Authors: Dorvlo Selorm Yaotse , Mkandawire Elizabeth , Roelich Katy , Jumbe Charles Blessings
Published: November 2023

Environmentally sustainable small-scale rice production mechanisation is a feasible intervention to help enhance yields and reduce food insecurity. Using machinery for rice production can help small farmers economically and promote sustainability through agroecological principles. The study analyses machinery ownership models and suggests stakeholder interactions for sustainable rice production. The study uses primary data from a field survey of 320 farmers within Asutsuare, a rice production hub in Southern Ghana, and secondary data from various sources. Four different ownership models have been proposed and evaluated. The cooperative-owned machinery (COM) model, with a sharing of the initial investment capital outlay for the machinery acquisition, and the individual ownership model, where the farmer owns and offers hiring services to other farmers (the FOHM-2B and FOHM-2T models) were the most economically viable models. The study also identifies necessary stakeholder engagement and pathways for affordable, sustainable, mechanised small-scale rice production. The models and interactions can promote machinery ownership and strengthen social connections in the community. This local knowledge base can help expand the use of machinery within the community. These models and interactions can be replicated easily in Sub-Saharan African farming communities with similar dynamics. This will improve mechanised farming throughout the continent.