bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Apoptotic Activities of Hylocereus undatus Peel and Pulp Extracts in MCF-7 and Caco-2 Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Salam Hanin S. , Tawfik Mohamed M. , Elnagar Mohamed R. , Mohammed Hamdoon A. , Zarka Mohamed A. , Awad Nabil S.
Published: August 2022

There is a huge demand for novel anticancer agents with fewer side effects compared to current therapies. Pitaya, or dragon fruit, is a reservoir of potent anticancer compounds. This research aimed to analyze the phytochemical components of Hylocereus undatus pulp and peel extracts using LC-MS and GC-MS, and to investigate the in vitro effects of both extracts against cancer (breast, MCF-7, and colon, Caco-2) and normal (lung; WI-38 and breast; MCF-10A) cell proliferation using the MTT assay. The apoptosis potential of the anticancer effects was also evaluated using flow cytometry, RT-PCR, and Western blot. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in the peel extract were significantly higher than those in the pulp extract. Compared to the flavonoid and phenolic acid standards, the LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of nine compounds, which were represented as 84.32 and 5.29 µg/g of the flavonoids and 686.11 and 148.72 µg/g of the phenolic acids in the peel and pulp extracts, respectively. Among the identified compounds, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and rutin were found at the highest concentration in both plant extracts. Both extracts displayed cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 and Caco-2 cancer cells after 48 h of treatment at IC50 values ranging from 14 to 53 μg/mL with high selective indices against normal WI-38 and MCF-10A cell lines. The increase in apoptosis was revealed by the overexpression of p53, BAX, and caspase-9 and the downregulation of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 mRNA and protein expressions. The results indicate that H. undatus extracts can be a plant source for cancer therapy.
Integration of the Connectivity Map and Pathway Analysis to Predict Plant Extract’s Medicinal Properties—The Study Case of Sarcopoterium spinosum L.
Authors: Gahramanov Valid , Oz Moria , Aouizerat Tzemach , Rosenzweig Tovit , Gorelick Jonathan , Drori Elyashiv , Salmon-Divon Mali , Sherman Michael Y. , Lubin Bat Chen R.
Published: August 2022

Medicinal properties of plants are usually identified based on knowledge of traditional medicine or using low-throughput screens for specific pharmacological activities. The former is very biased since it requires prior knowledge of plants’ properties, while the latter depends on a specific screening system and will miss medicinal activities not covered by the screen. We sought to enrich our understanding of the biological activities of Sarcopoterium spinosum L. root extract based on transcriptome changes to uncover a plurality of possible pharmacological effects without the need for prior knowledge or functional screening. We integrated Gene Set Enrichment Analysis of the RNAseq data to identify pathways affected by the treatment of cells with the extract and perturbational signatures in the CMAP database to enhance the validity of the results. Activities of signaling pathways were measured using immunoblotting with phospho-specific antibodies. Mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed using JC-1 staining. SARS-CoV-2-induced cell killing was assessed in Vero E6 and A549 cells using an MTT assay. Here, we identified transcriptome changes following exposure of cultured cells to the medicinal plant Sarcopoterium spinosum L. root extract. By integrating algorithms of GSEA and CMAP, we confirmed known anti-cancer activities of the extract and predicted novel biological effects on oxidative phosphorylation and interferon pathways. Experimental validation of these pathways uncovered strong activation of autophagy, including mitophagy, and excellent protection from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study shows that gene expression analysis alone is insufficient for predicting biological effects since some of the changes reflect compensatory effects, and additional biochemical tests provide necessary corrections. This study defines the advantages and limitations of transcriptome analysis in predicting the biological and medicinal effects of the Sarcopoterium spinosum L. extract. Such analysis could be used as a general approach for predicting the medicinal properties of plants.
An NmrA-Like Protein, Lws1, Is Important for Pathogenesis in the Woody Plant Pathogen Lasiodiplodia theobromae
Authors: Peng Junbo , Aluthmuhandiram Janith V. S. , Chethana K. W. Thilini , Zhang Qi , Xing Qikai , Wang Hui , Liu Mei , Zhang Wei , Li Xinghong , Yan Jiye
Published: August 2022

The NmrA-like proteins have been reported to be important nitrogen metabolism regulators and virulence factors in herbaceous plant pathogens. However, their role in the woody plant pathogen Lasiodiplodia theobromae is less clear. In the current study, we identified a putative NmrA-like protein, Lws1, in L. theobromae and investigated its pathogenic role via gene silencing and overexpression experiments. We also evaluated the effects of external carbon and nitrogen sources on Lws1 gene expression via qRT-PCR assays. Moreover, we analyzed the molecular interaction between Lws1 and its target protein via the yeast two-hybrid system. The results show that Lws1 contained a canonical glycine-rich motif shared by the short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) superfamily proteins and functioned as a negative regulator during disease development. Transcription profiling revealed that the transcription of Lws1 was affected by external nitrogen and carbon sources. Interaction analyses demonstrated that Lws1 interacted with a putative GATA family transcription factor, LtAreA. In conclusion, these results suggest that Lws1 serves as a critical regulator in nutrition metabolism and disease development during infection.
Sampling Scheme Conception for Pretreated Polyolefin Waste Based on a Review of the Available Standard Procedures
Authors: Akhras Mohamad Hassan , Fischer Joerg
Published: August 2022

Given the rapid development of plastics recycling in recent years, the need for guidelines for sampling and material characterization is steadily emerging. However, there still exists a considerable scarcity of methods that enable proper material data acquisition. This paper consists of two parts. The first part provides a critical review of the available sampling techniques that can be utilized in the field of plastics recycling. Several sampling studies were covered in the review alongside the prominent standardization institutions. It was found that neither the literature nor the standards provide a comprehensive practice that considers the distinctive characteristics of plastic waste and applies it to different situations along the value chain. In the second part, a proposal of a sampling plan for pretreated rigid plastic waste is conceptualized based on selected information from the reviewed methods. Two variants of the proposed plan were evaluated based on the flake size distribution and the apparent density of four different pretreated polyolefin (PO) waste materials. The results of the study showed that combining stratified random sampling with composite sampling yields a good sampling technique for rigid PO waste. Moreover, the analysis of a composite sample adequately conveys the true material properties of a sublot or lot.
Reinforced Structure Effect on Thermo-Oxidative Stability of Polymer-Matrix Composites: 2-D Plain Woven Composites and 2.5-D Angle-Interlock Woven Composites
Authors: Gao Xingzhong , Han Tiancong , Tang Bolin , Yi Jie , Cao Miao
Published: August 2022

The thermo-oxidative stability of carbon fiber polymer matrix composites with different integral reinforced structures was investigated experimentally and numerically. Specimens of 2-D plain woven composites and 2.5-D angle-interlock woven composites were isothermally aged at 180 °C in hot air for various durations up to 32 days. The thermal oxidative ageing led to the degradation of the matrix and the fiber/matrix interface. The degradation mechanisms of the matrix were examined by ATR-FTIR and thermal analysis. The interface cracks caused by thermal oxidative ageing were sensitive to the reinforced structure. The thermo-oxidative stability of the two composites was numerically compared in terms of matrix shrinking and crack evolution and then experimentally validated by interlaminar shear tests.
Multi-Dimensional Regression Models for Predicting the Wall Thickness Distribution of Corrugated Pipes
Authors: Albrecht Hanny , Roland Wolfgang , Fiebig Christian , Berger-Weber Gerald Roman
Published: August 2022

Corrugated pipes offer both higher stiffness and higher flexibility while simultaneously requiring less material than rigid pipes. Production rates of corrugated pipes have therefore increased significantly in recent years. Due to rising commodity prices, pipe manufacturers have been driven to produce corrugated pipes of high quality with reduced material input. To the best of our knowledge, corrugated pipe geometry and wall thickness distribution significantly influence pipe properties. Essential factors in optimizing wall thickness distribution include adaptation of the mold block geometry and structure optimization. To achieve these goals, a conventional approach would typically require numerous iterations over various pipe geometries, several mold block geometries, and then fabrication of pipes to be tested experimentally—an approach which is very time-consuming and costly. To address this issue, we developed multi-dimensional mathematical models that predict the wall thickness distribution in corrugated pipes as functions of the mold geometry by using symbolic regression based on genetic programming (GP). First, the blow molding problem was transformed into a dimensionless representation. Then, a screening study was performed to identify the most significant influencing parameters, which were subsequently varied within wide ranges as a basis for a comprehensive, numerically driven parametric design study. The data set obtained was used as input for data-driven modeling to derive novel regression models for predicting wall thickness distribution. Finally, model accuracy was confirmed by means of an error analysis that evaluated various statistical metrics. With our models, wall thickness distribution can now be predicted and subsequently used for structural analysis, thus enabling digital mold block design and optimizing the wall thickness distribution.
Porous Fly Ash/Aluminosilicate Microspheres-Based Composites Containing Lightweight Granules Using Liquid Glass as Binder
Authors: Miryuk Olga , Fediuk Roman , Amran Mugahed
Published: August 2022

The modern energy-saving vector of development in building materials science is being implemented in a complex way through the development of new heat-insulating materials with the simultaneous exclusion of low-ecological cement from them. This article presents the results of the development of resource-saving technology for a heat-insulating composite material. The research is devoted to the development of scientific ideas about the technology and properties of effective cementless lightweight concretes. The aim of the work is to create a heat-insulating composite material based on porous granules and a matrix from mixtures of liquid glass and thermal energy waste. The novelty of the work lies in establishing the patterns of formation of a stable structure of a porous material during thermal curing of liquid glass with technogenic fillers. Studies of liquid glass mixtures with different contents of fly ash and aluminosilicate microspheres revealed the possibility of controlling the properties of molding masses in a wide range. To obtain a granular material, liquid glass mixtures of plastic consistency with a predominance of aluminosilicate microspheres are proposed. The matrix of composite materials is formed by a mobile mixture of liquid glass and a combined filler, in which fly ash predominates. The parameters of heat treatment of granular and composite materials are established to ensure the formation of a strong porous waterproof structure. The possibility of regulating the structure of composite materials due to different degrees of filling the liquid glass matrix with porous granules is shown. A heat-insulating concrete based on porous aggregate has been developed, characterized by the genetic commonality of the matrix and the granular component, density of 380–650 kg/m3, thermal conductivity of 0.095–0.100 W/(m °C) and strength of 3.5–9.0 MPa, resistance under conditions of variable values of humidity and temperature. A basic technological scheme for the joint production of granular and composite materials from liquid glass mixtures is proposed.
A Comprehensive Characterization of Biodegradable Edible Films Based on Potato Peel Starch Plasticized with Glycerol
Authors: Charles Albert Linton , Motsa Nomalungelo , Abdillah Annur Ahadi
Published: August 2022

Potatoes are a source of starch, which is an eco-friendly alternative to petrochemicals in plastic production. Increasing potato production also creates agricultural waste that could be converted to potato peel starch (PPS) and developed as films. A response surface method approach was employed to optimize the bioconversion of PPS (2, 4, and 6% w/v) and compared with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-based films. The microstructure analysis of PPSF showed increased thickness, decreased swelling power, water solubility, and vapor permeability, which were linked to increased molecular interactions as a function of PPS increments. However, low-starch PPSF exhibited high transparency, good mechanical properties, and thermal stability (high melting temperature), pliability, and accelerated seawater and soil biodegradation (~90%: 20 and 50 days, respectively). All films exhibited thermal stability at >100 °C and retained similar amorphous characteristics, evidenced by their flexibility, which confirmed the potential use for PPS in packaging perishable and cooled foods.
A Magnetic Interference Compensation Method for Airborne Electronic Equipment without Current Sensors
Authors: Li You , Han Qi , Peng Xiang , Li Qiong , Tong Xiaojun
Published: August 2022

With the rapid development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) technology, using UAVs for magnetic surveys is a booming branch. However, the magnetic interference generated by the UAV hinders the further application of UAV magnetic survey systems. In addition to the interference caused by the UAV maneuvering, the dynamic interference of airborne equipment has also been found and become one of the factors restricted by the detection accuracy of magnetic surveys. This paper proposes a multi-source two-channel linear time-invariant (MTLI) correlation model, considering the maneuvering magnetic interference and airborne equipment magnetic interference. The magnetic interference can be estimated and compensated by interference correlation without current sensors. Compared with the traditional aeromagnetic compensation process and other compensation methods considering the magnetic interference of airborne equipment, the proposed method can provide stable compensation effects in maneuvers and smooth flight, and the workflow is simple and fast. The actual flight experiment is conducted, and the results show that the two kinds of UAV interference fields are suppressed significantly with a root mean square error of 0.0062 and 0.0296 nT in smooth flight and maneuvering flight.
Sea and Land Segmentation of Optical Remote Sensing Images Based on U-Net Optimization
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Huang Zhenghong , Wang Yongling , Luo Qinghua
Published: August 2022

At present, some related studies on semantic segmentation are becoming complicated, adding a lot of feature layers and various jump splicing to improve the level of refined segmentation, which often requires a large number of parameters to ensure a better segmentation effect. When faced with lightweight tasks, such as sea and land segmentation, the modeling capabilities of these models far exceed the complexity of the task, and reducing the size of the model can easily weaken the original effect of the model. In response to this problem, this paper proposes a U-net optimization structure combining Atrous Spatial Pyramid Pooling (ASPP) and FReLU, namely ACU-Net. ACU-Net replaces the two-layer continuous convolution in the feature extraction part of U-Net with a lightweight ASPP module, retains the symmetric U-shaped structure of the original U-Net structure, and splices the output of the ASPP module with the upsampling part. Use FReLU to improve the modeling ability between pixels, and at the same time cooperate with the attention mechanism to improve the perception ability and receptive field of the network, reduce the training difficulty of the model, and fully tap the hidden information of the samples to capture more effective features. The experimental results show that the ACU-Net in this paper surpasses the reduced U-Net and its optimized improved network U-Net++ in terms of segmentation accuracy and IoU with a smaller volume.
Gender Equality Impact Drivers Revisited: Assessing Institutional Capacity in Research and Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Mergaert Lut , Cacace Marina , Linková Marcela
Published: August 2022

This article presents the development and piloting of an innovative tool to assess the sustainability and impact of institutional change towards gender equality, termed the Impact Driver model. It provides a description of the model and the resulting tool, as well as how it has been developed, based on earlier models. It also presents the revised model following a pilot test and accompanying workshop, which were carried out to gather feedback on the use and potential of the tool. In conclusion, the article provides recommendations for the use of the tool, considering the EU context and policy framework, which pushes towards the institutionalisation of gender equality in research and innovation.
A Study on Parenting Experiences of Multicultural Families with Disabled Children in Korea
Authors: Kim Keoungyeol
Published: August 2022

This paper employs a qualitative case study to investigate the parenting experiences of multicultural families with disabled children in Korea. The topic at hand focuses specifically on mothers’ experiences of raising a child with disability in a multicultural family. Participants chosen through purposive sampling method were recommended by the Korean multicultural support center. This study’s five participants are married female immigrants who are raising elementary school-age children with disabilities and who have Korean communication skills. The qualitative case study approach seeks to elicit the participants’ experiences of child nurturing. Their experiences were analyzed and categorized into two main categories: (1) hardships for mothers raising children with disabilities and (2) expectations of mothers raising children with disabilities. Such analyses lead us to understand the intricacies of motherhood for children with special needs in foreign countries. Lastly, the implications of this study aim to provide direction for effective and practical policies—including social welfare and educational support—that will meet the needs of multicultural families with disabled children.
Evolution towards Hybrid Software Development Methods and Information Systems Audit Challenges
Authors: Kirpitsas Ioannis K. , Pachidis Theodore P.
Published: August 2022

The key objective of this paper is to investigate the evolution of hybrid software development methods and highlight the main difficulties that arise with regard to information systems (IS) auditing. While technology firms today are under constant pressure to deliver software faster due to emerging needs worldwide, this continuous effort leads to innovative development models, apparently driven by practice. Since modern software development is neither pure linear phases progression nor agile, a challenge arises with regards to selecting the appropriate combination of approaches that serve to reach goals and assure value creation for organizations.
Cutting Movement Assessment Scores during Anticipated and Unanticipated 90-Degree Sidestep Cutting Manoeuvres within Female Professional Footballers
Authors: Needham Chloe , Herrington Lee
Published: August 2022

Background: ACL injuries present a considerable burden in female football, with highest incidence being related to change of direction (COD) tasks. The aim was to identify if differences existed between an anticipated and unanticipated 90-degree cutting task using the CMAS. Methods: 11 female professional footballers completed twelve 90-degree COD tasks (6 anticipated, 6 unanticipated). Participants performed the unanticipated task in response to a moving football at the start of their acceleration. All COD tasks were filmed and assessed using the CMAS. Results: The CMAS score for the unanticipated COD task (5.53 ± 0.71) was significantly larger than for the anticipated COD task (3.55 ± 0.85, p < 0.012). Excellent intra-rater reliability was observed (ICC = 0.97) for analysis of CMAS scores. Conclusions: Female footballers in this sample demonstrated a greater CMAS score during an unanticipated COD task compared to an anticipated COD task. These athletes are therefore more likely to display ‘high-risk’ movement patterns, thus greater risk of injury. Reacting to a sporting implement, such as a moving ball, may be a contributing factor to these results. Further research into unanticipated COD tasks should be considered to determine why these differences occur and the impact of anticipation on performance.
Factors Influencing Loyalty to Health Food Brands: An Analysis from the Value Perceived by the Peruvian Consumer
Authors: García-Salirrosas Elizabeth Emperatriz , Millones-Liza Dany Yudet , Esponda-Pérez Jorge Alberto , Acevedo-Duque Ángel , Müller-Pérez Jessica , Sánchez Díaz Lisette C.
Published: August 2022

The COVID 19 pandemic brought significant changes in consumption habits, bringing about an era of more sustainable and healthier consumption. The objective of the present study is to measure brand loyalty to healthy foods in Peru, not only in a pandemic context, but also in a natural context based on the dimensions of the PERVAL value scale. Data were collected through an online survey and processed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results of the model among 396 consumers revealed that qualitative value and emotional value have the highest contribution to brand loyalty, followed by economic value and social value. These findings suggest that product quality should be taken as a priority and, although social value does not contribute much to health food brand loyalty, it is a trend sought after by consumers.
Education for Sustainable Development in Higher Education-Introduction to a Special Issue
Authors: Tejedor Gemma , Sánchez-Carracedo Fermín , Segalàs Jordi
Published: August 2022

Education for sustainable development (ESD) is essential for humanity to overcome the immense challenges it faces as a result of human actions on nature [...]
Development of Inland Waterway Transport as a Key to Ensure Sustainability: A Case Study of Lithuania
Authors: Plotnikova Elena , Vienažindienė Milita , Slavinskas Stasys
Published: August 2022

To ensure the development of sustainability, the Europe Union (EU) set the goal of becoming a climate-neutral economy by 2050. The EU’s ambitious new target cannot be achieved without the involvement of all modes of transport in order to reduce emissions. According to it, the development of inland waterway transport is a key to ensuring sustainability. Calculations proving the benefits of developing the use of inland waterway transport for ensuring sustainability using the example of the Republic of Lithuania were carried out in this paper. Namely, the calculation of the benefit from the transfer of part of the cargo flow from the busy highway A1 Kaunas–Klaipeda to Neman River (inland waterway of international importance E41). Modeling and detailed comparison using the method of calculating the impact on the main external costs (accidents, air pollution, climate change, noise, habitat damage, congestion) showed that external costs are lower when transporting cargo by river. Increasing the barge capacity from 1000 t to 1800 t reduces the external cost of climate change by 25%. Moreover, replacing diesel with liquefied natural gas can reduce the external costs of climate change by 15% to 25%. The greatest effect is achieved by reducing the level of noise, congestion, and safety. It is possible to enlarge the positive effect by using energy generated by solar or wind power plants for electric-powered ships.
Research on the Effects and Factors of CSV Activities by Sector in Japanese Firms: Analysis Considering the Relationships with Management and Communication Strategies
Authors: Takata Shinya , Park Young Won , Ohno Takahiro
Published: August 2022

In this study, we examine whether social and corporate values are improved in firms conducting CSV (Creating Shared Value) activities in Japan, as well as determining the factors affecting such improvement. A total of 218 firms were selected from those conducting CSV activities in the manufacturing industry from 2019 to 2021, according to Toyo Keizai data. The following key results were obtained: first, CSV activities increase social value, but do not improve short-term financial performance. Second, the effects on financial performance and factors affecting the improvement of social values vary from sector to sector. Third, changes in sales is a common factor affecting performance. Fourth, communication strategies for the implementation of CSV activities differ between material and assembly industries; for example, materiality plays an important role for human resource utilization in material sectors, while in-house branding plays an important role in assembly sectors. Our research findings contribute to the understanding of the need to take different measures to improve social value among different sectors of the manufacturing industry.
Investigation of Urban Design Approaches in Renewal Areas with Hybrid Decision Model
Authors: Koçak Güngör Merve , Bostancı Bülent , Yılmaz Bakır Neşe , Doğan Umut
Published: August 2022

Generally, urban renewal practices in developing countries are formed by economic concerns and by ignoring the design dimension. As a result, these conditions create unqualified urban spaces in terms of livability. In this study, to analyze and evaluate this problem, a criterion framework and a hybrid spatial decision model are formed for improving the design quality of renewal projects. The authors defined 37 urban design criteria through literature research, expert opinions, and self-assessments. A multidisciplinary focus group was held and a paired comparison form was prepared to determine the criterion weights and suitability values with the used the fuzzy DEMATEL and weighted linear combination method. The values analyzed using ArcGIS 10.2 and the suitability values are shown on the map. As a result, it has been determined that even the highest valued among the examined renewal projects could not meet even 50% of the defined urban design quality standard. The results have emphasized that the urban renewal projects without area-specific and appropriate design solutions reveal that they cannot develop qualified places. Within the scope of realizing more qualified urban places, design criteria should also be taken into account in the project design processes. In future studies, this model can be used in determining the area-specific and appropriate design solution for spatial decision-makers.
Traffic Safety Policies for Saudi Women: Attitudinal Analysis
Authors: Saleh Wafaa Shoukry , Lashin Maha M. A.
Published: August 2022

In this study, we investigated the current Saudi traffic safety policies and how they are perceived by Saudi women in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study was based on using a survey to define and calculate two sets of specific indicators, namely the Perceived Effectiveness Index (PEI) and the Commendation Index (CI), representing, respectively, the perception and acceptance of road traffic safety. The survey, which was conducted on a sample of Saudi women in Riyadh, demonstrated a high level of support for the ongoing road safety policies amongst the respondents, bringing to the fore some country-specific indications such as the low relevance of pedestrian crossing policies. The study aimed to contribute to an understanding of the specific gender aspects of transportation policies and their perception amongst the female population in Saudi Arabia to enable an understanding of the entire context of ongoing reforms in the Kingdom at various political, cultural, and societal levels. Our study, therefore, reveals potential strengths and provides an interdisciplinary contribution by drawing on the relevant literature in the field of travel behaviour and traffic safety policies and their perception amongst women. Saudi women’s attitudes towards 17 safety policies, including engineering, enforcement, education, and legislation policies, were examined. The policies were carefully designated to be practical and possible to implement. The analysis and assessment of the results obtained by the two indicators shed light on the participants’ acceptance, and hence their willingness, to cope with road safety policies, should they be implemented. The findings of this study showed that Saudi women’s attitudes to road safety policies were very positive; in particular, they showed sound support for enforcement policies.
Learning from the COVID-19 Pandemic Crisis to Overcome the Global Environmental Crisis
Authors: von Hagke Christoph , Hill Chloe , Hof Angela , Rinder Thomas , Lang Andreas , Habel Jan Christian
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 crisis and the environmental crisis share a range of similarities. Both crises take place on a global scale and affect all aspects of our lives. However, we humans respond differently to these challenges. Here, we compare and comment on characteristics of the COVID-19 crisis and the environmental crisis, explore how far these two crises are comparable, and what we can learn from actions that have been taken against the COVID-19 crisis. We discuss how human societies are affected by the respective crises, and analyze policy makers’ responses and offer pathways to better inform policy. We highlight the role of science, which significantly contributed to decision making throughout the COVID-19 crisis, but seems frequently underrepresented in the environmental crisis. We conclude that there are significant differences between the two crises in terms of perceptibility and thus communicability. While problems and solutions in the COVID-19 crisis are largely linearly correlated, the challenges of the environmental crisis are far more complex and decoupled, and thus appear much more complex and are often only perceived with difficulty by humans. Thus, tackling the environmental crisis is much more challenging than solving the COVID-19 crisis. To overcome the environmental crisis, purely technical approaches for combating symptoms are not sufficient. However, political interests are usually short-term, and do not correspond with the temporal and spatial scales of global change. There is an urgent need to improve institutionalized scientific advisory mechanisms and to empower global policy makers who are independent of local interest groups. Furthermore, we need the sound communication of complex interactions to the general public and the translation of scientific findings into action. One possibility to achieve this is to bring together natural scientists with expertise in biology, climate and geosciences and social scientists, psychologists, and, possibly, artists.
Consumers Towards the Goals of Sustainable Development: Attitudes and Typology
Authors: Maciejewski Grzegorz , Lesznik Dawid
Published: August 2022

The aim of this paper is to determine the level of knowledge of the categories of sustainable development and consumers’ attitudes towards concept, assumptions, and principles of sustainable development in Polish society. The article also attempts to distinguish homogeneous clusters of consumers, based on their attitudes toward the sustainable development goals (SDGs). The text is based on the results of the original empirical research carried out by the authors in November 2020 on a sample of 1045 adult consumers from all over Poland. The research used an online survey technique. To determine the types of consumers, 17 diagnostic variables (goals of sustainable development) were adopted. Cluster analysis was used to distinguish the types of consumers, whereas the number of clusters was determined using the hierarchical Ward method with the square of the Euclidean distance. The individual objects were classified into clusters with the help of the non-hierarchical k-means method. The conducted analyses enabled the authors to distinguish three relatively homogeneous types of consumers based on their attitudes towards the sustainable development goals, namely: informed apologists, moderate supporters, and uninformed critics. The consumer types described in the article may constitute the basis for market segmentation for companies offering consumer goods and services. The article also presents the level of awareness of the sustainable development goals in Polish society and the level of their acceptance. In addition, the presented research results conducted in Poland may constitute the basis for implementation of similar research in other countries. In the case of many countries and societies, there is a lack of knowledge about the types of consumers based on their attitudes towards the idea of sustainable development; therefore, it can be concluded that the presented research results contribute to the theory of consumer behavior.
Decontamination and Remediation of Underground Holes and Testing of Cleaning Techniques Based on the Use of Liquid Cold Decontaminant
Authors: Tonti Andrea , Marin Adriano , Rizzo Francesco , Massaro Francesco , Masiero Mattia , Panizzolo Paolo , Lesca Claudio , Pratolongo Alessia , Manzone Paolo , Giannetti Fabio
Published: August 2022

As part of its institutional skills, the INAIL (National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work) promotes and carries out activities aimed at preventing the risks to which workers may be subjected to in different work scenarios, in this case, in collaboration with Livanova and WOW Technology S.p.A. (Wonderful Water Technology, Monselice, PD, Italy). An open problem at the Livanova plant, located in Saluggia (VC, Italy), is the decontamination of many concrete structures. Precisely because of its radioactive content, simple mechanical removal wasn’t possible for the high production of the contaminated dust, which may endanger the health of workers. The solution adopted was to insert decontaminant liquids into the concrete structures and, after a period of soaking, treating these liquids with an evaporative machine that is able to separate contaminants. The combination of these systems proved to be suitable for this experimental decontamination activity. As a result, this activity has shown a certain efficiency in removing radioactivity from the walls of the structures, ensuring the safety of the workers involved during the operations and reducing the potential risk of exposure in comparison to mechanical removal.
Long-Term US Economic Growth and the Carbon Dioxide Emissions Nexus: A Wavelet-Based Approach
Authors: Torun Erdost , Akdeniz Afife Duygu Ayhan , Demireli Erhan , Grima Simon
Published: August 2022

Economic growth has significantly boomed carbon emissions in the global economy. However, there is an ongoing debate about the economic growth–carbon emission nexus for various economies in the literature. This paper investigates the short/long-term causal information flow between fossil-fuel-related carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) and economic growth (GDP) in the US economy spanning from 1800 to 2014. Using wavelet-based-nonparametric Granger causality analysis, the empirical results indicate that (i) the long-run causal information flow running from GDP to CO2 is positive, strong, uninterrupted and concentrated since the 1990s; (ii) the reverse causality is positive but interrupted, short-term and intensifying during the early 1990s. Due to strong and very long-term unidirectional causality findings, economic growth leads to environmental deterioration. Hence, for policymakers, environment-based growth policies and structural reforms can foreshadow energy-efficient policies by limiting carbon emissions. Hence, sustainable economic growth policies are expected to decelerate environmental problems and promote environmental sustainability. The findings can be attractive for other booming economies.
Investigations into EFL Students’ Pragmatic and Grammatical Awareness through Peer Collaboration
Authors: Chiu Ethan Fu-Yen , Chen Yuan-shan , Tai Hsuan-Yu
Published: August 2022

Grounded in sociocultural theory, collaboration has been recognized as a useful teaching method. In English teaching, while a number of studies have examined the effectiveness of collaboration on grammar, research on pragmatic awareness is scarce. As such, this study explored how collaboration influenced, firstly, grammatical and pragmatic awareness and, secondly, error correction: the two major components in language competence. In this study, 32 Taiwanese English major juniors and seniors with CEFR B2 were recruited. These participants were required to work individually and collaboratively to identify pragmatic/grammatical errors, to rate the severity of the errors, and to correct these errors in a discourse completion task (DCT). The results revealed that peer collaboration achieved higher scores on error identification, severity ratings, and error correction than did individual work. The facilitative effects of collaboration may have been attributable to collaborative and expert–novice interaction patterns that showed a high degree of mutuality and equality during discussions. In conclusion, the findings showed that collaboration echoed the spirit of sociocultural theory, and could serve as a useful approach in English instruction, to create a sustainable learning environment in an EFL context such as Taiwan, where the national bilingual 2030 policy has been launched to require learners to develop life-long learning of English.
Exact Likelihood Inference for Parameter of Exponential Distribution under Combined Generalized Progressive Hybrid Censoring Scheme
Authors: Seong Yeongjae , Lee Kyeongjun
Published: August 2022

Recently, the generalized type I progressive hybrid censoring scheme (GenT1PrHyCS) and generalized type II progressive hybrid censoring scheme (GenT2PrHyCS) have become quite popular in reliability studies. These two type censoring schemes are very complex due to the large number of parameters used to specify the censoring procedure. Therefore, in this paper, we consider a more general and more complex new censoring scheme. Also, we consider the exponential distribution(ExpD) and derive an expression for the density function of the MLE. We prove the exact distribution of the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) and conditional moment generating function (CondMGF) of the MLE for the mean of the ExpD under a new censoring scheme. We then derive the exact confidence intervals (ConfItv) for the mean of the ExpD under a new censoring scheme. Finally, we present an example to explain the methods of inference derived for this paper. From the example data, it can be seen that PDF of MLE for ExpD under new censoring scheme is almost symmetrical.
The Directional Derivative in General Quantum Calculus
Authors: Karim Avin O. , Shehata Enas M. , Cardoso José Luis
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we define the β-partial derivative as well as the β-directional derivative of a multi-variable function based on the β-difference operator, Dβ, which is defined by Dβf(t)=f(β(t))−f(t)/β(t)−t, where β is a strictly increasing continuous function. Some properties are proved. Furthermore, the β-gradient vector and the β-gradient directional derivative of a multi-variable function are introduced. Finally, we deduce the Hahn-partial and the Hahn-directional derivatives associated with the Hahn difference operator.
Improved Likelihood Inference Procedures for the Logistic Distribution
Authors: Baklizi Ayman
Published: August 2022

We consider third-order likelihood inferences for the parameters, quantiles and reliability function of the logistic distribution. This theory involves the conditioning and marginalization of the likelihood function. The logistic distribution is a symmetric distribution which is closely related to normal distributions, and which has several applications because of its mathematical tractability and the availability of a closed-form cumulative distribution function. The performance of the third-order techniques is investigated and compared with the first-order techniques using simulations. The results show that the third-order techniques are far more accurate than the usual first-order inference procedures. This results in more accurate inferences about the functions of the parameters of the distribution, which leads to more precise conclusions about the phenomenon modeled by the logistic distribution.
Antecedents and Consequences of the Ease of Use and Usefulness of Fast Food Kiosks Using the Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Moon Joonho , Shim Jimin , Lee Won Seok
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study is to investigate whether kiosk users’ characteristics can be explained by the technology acceptance model (TAM). Additionally, the goal of this research is to closely examine antecedents relevant to usefulness and ease of use. For the purposes of this study, the determinants of usefulness, degree of non-contact, time-saving efficiency, order accuracy, and ease of use were examined as important factors of kiosk design. The ease of use antecedents mainly consisted of payment and navigability. This study also attested to the relationships among a variety of TAM attributes: ease of use, usefulness, attitude, and intention to use. A survey was used to collect the majority of the data. Amazon Mechanical Turk was used for the recruitment of survey participants, and the number of valid observations was 346. A structural equation model was employed to test the study’s research hypotheses. It was found that time saving, order accuracy, and ease of use are positively associated with the level of usefulness. Ease of use is positively influenced by navigability, and attitude is positively determined by both ease of use and usefulness. Additionally, intention to use is positively impacted by both attitude and usefulness.
Multi-Wavelength Properties of Gamma-Ray Binaries
Authors: Chernyakova Maria , Malyshev Denys
Published: August 2022

Gamma-ray binaries are a subclass of high-mass binary systems whose energy spectrum peaks at high energies ( MeV–GeV energy range) and extends to very high energy (GeV–TeV) γ-rays [...]
Assessment of Rapid MinION Nanopore DNA Virus Meta-Genomics Using Calves Experimentally Infected with Bovine Herpes Virus-1
Authors: Esnault Gaelle , Earley Bernadette , Cormican Paul , Waters Sinead M. , Lemon Ken , Cosby S. Louise , Lagan Paula , Barry Thomas , Reddington Kate , McCabe Matthew S.
Published: August 2022

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD), which is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in cattle, is caused by numerous known and unknown viruses and is responsible for the widespread use of broad-spectrum antibiotics despite the use of polymicrobial BRD vaccines. Viral metagenomics sequencing on the portable, inexpensive Oxford Nanopore Technologies MinION sequencer and sequence analysis with its associated user-friendly point-and-click Epi2ME cloud-based pathogen identification software has the potential for point-of-care/same-day/sample-to-result metagenomic sequence diagnostics of known and unknown BRD pathogens to inform a rapid response and vaccine design. We assessed this potential using in vitro viral cell cultures and nasal swabs taken from calves that were experimentally challenged with a single known BRD-associated DNA virus, namely, bovine herpes virus 1. Extensive optimisation of the standard Oxford Nanopore library preparation protocols, particularly a reduction in the PCR bias of library amplification, was required before BoHV-1 could be identified as the main virus in the in vitro cell cultures and nasal swab samples within approximately 7 h from sample to result. In addition, we observed incorrect assignment of the bovine sequence to bacterial and viral taxa due to the presence of poor-quality bacterial and viral genome assemblies in the RefSeq database used by the EpiME Fastq WIMP pathogen identification software.
The Shigella Vaccines Pipeline
Authors: MacLennan Calman Alexander , Grow Stephanie , Ma Lyou-fu , Steele Andrew Duncan
Published: August 2022

Shigella is the leading cause of global diarrheal deaths that currently lacks a licensed vaccine. Shigellosis drives antimicrobial resistance and leads to economic impact through linear growth faltering. Today, there is a robust pipeline of vaccines in clinical development which are broadly divided into parenteral glycoconjugate vaccines, consisting of O-antigen conjugated to carrier proteins, and oral live attenuated vaccines, which incorporate targeted genetic mutations seeking to optimize the balance between reactogenicity, immunogenicity and ultimately protection. Proof of efficacy has previously been shown with both approaches but for various reasons no vaccine has been licensed to date. In this report, we outline the requirements for a Shigella vaccine and describe the current pipeline in the context of the many candidates that have previously failed or been abandoned. The report refers to papers from individual vaccine developers in this special supplement of Vaccines which is focused on Shigella vaccines. Once readouts of safety and immunogenicity from current trials of lead candidate vaccines among the target population of young children in low- and middle-income countries are available, the likely time to licensure of a first Shigella vaccine will become clearer.
High Stress Levels and Trust toward the Government Are Associated with More Positive Attitudes toward COVID-19 Vaccines among French Students: A Pilot Study
Authors: Brun Clémence , Zerhouni Oulmann , Houtin Laurène , Akinyemi Alexis , Aimé-Jubin Carla , Boudesseul Jordane , Pinsault Nicolas
Published: August 2022

Mistrust in COVID-19 vaccines may hinder vaccination campaigns. We looked at cognitive determinants of vaccination intentions against COVID-19. We were interested in (i) the effects of stress and (ii) the effects of self-protection systems on attitudes and intentions to get COVID-19 vaccines. We conducted an online observational pilot study with 203 participants and used self-report questionnaires to assess perceived stress and vulnerability to disease, beliefs about a dangerous world, pandemic-related stressors, living conditions, attitudes and intentions toward the vaccines and trust in government management of the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants reporting high levels of trust in government and high levels of stress were more likely to have positive attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines, although these two effects are at least partially independent of each other. We discuss how to improve the communication around COVID-19 vaccine policies.