bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Applications of Amphiphilic Copolymers in Drug Release Systems for Skin Treatment
Authors: Cardona Yudy Vanessa , Muñoz Lizeth Geraldine , Cardozo Daniela Gutierrez , Chamorro Andrés Felipe
Published: September 2024

Amphiphilic copolymers (ACs) are versatile systems with self-assembling and aggregating properties, enabling the formation of nanomaterials (NMs) such as micelles, vesicles, nanocapsules, and nanogels. These materials have been extensively explored for the delivery of various drugs and active compounds, enhancing the solubility and permeation of poorly water-soluble drugs into skin tissue. This improvement facilitates the treatment of skin diseases, including chronic conditions like cancer, as well as infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This review summarizes recent applications of ACs in skin treatment, with a particular focus on their use in anti-cancer drug therapy. It covers the synthesis, classification, and characterization of ACs using various experimental techniques. Additionally, it discusses recent research on different drug delivery pathways using ACs, including encapsulation efficiency, release behavior, characteristics, applications, and responses to various chemical and physical stimuli (both in vivo and in vitro). Furthermore, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of ACs NMs on several skin diseases, highlighting their potential as alternative treatments.
Unveiling the Performance of Co-Assembled Hybrid Nanocarriers: Moving towards the Formation of a Multifunctional Lipid/Random Copolymer Nanoplatform
Authors: Triantafyllopoulou Efstathia , Perinelli Diego Romano , Forys Aleksander , Pantelis Pavlos , Gorgoulis Vassilis G. , Lagopati Nefeli , Trzebicka Barbara , Bonacucina Giulia , Valsami Georgia , Pippa Natassa , Pispas Stergios
Published: September 2024

Despite the appealing properties of random copolymers, the use of these biomaterials in association with phospholipids is still limited, as several aspects of their performance have not been investigated. The aim of this work is the formulation of lipid/random copolymer platforms and the comprehensive study of their features by multiple advanced characterization techniques. Both biomaterials are amphiphilic, including two phospholipids (1,2-dioctadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC), 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC)) and a statistical copolymer of oligo (ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (OEGMA) and 2-(diisopropylamino) ethyl methacrylate (DIPAEMA). We examined the design parameters, including the lipid composition, the % comonomer ratio, and the lipid-to-polymer ratio that could be critical for their behavior. The structures were also probed in different conditions. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time that P(OEGMA-co-DIPAEMA)/lipid hybrid colloidal dispersions have been investigated from a membrane mechanics, biophysical, and morphological perspective. Among other parameters, the copolymer architecture and the hydrophilic to hydrophobic balance are deemed fundamental parameters for the biomaterial co-assembly, having an impact on the membrane’s fluidity, morphology, and thermodynamics. Exploiting their unique characteristics, the most promising candidates were utilized for methotrexate (MTX) loading to explore their encapsulation capability and potential antitumor efficacy in vitro in various cell lines.
Advanced Electrospun Composites Based on Polycaprolactone Fibers Loaded with Micronized Tungsten Powders for Radiation Shielding
Authors: Giuliani Chiara , De Stefano Ilaria , Mancuso Mariateresa , Fiaschini Noemi , Hein Luis Alexander , Mirabile Gattia Daniele , Scatena Elisa , Zenobi Eleonora , Del Gaudio Costantino , Galante Federica , Felici Giuseppe , Rinaldi Antonio
Published: September 2024

Exposure to high levels of radiation can cause acute, long-term health effects, such as acute radiation syndrome, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. This is an important occupational hazard in different fields, such as the aerospace and healthcare industry, as well as a crucial burden to overcome to boost space applications and exploration. Protective bulky equipment made of heavy metals is not suitable for many advanced purporses, such as mobile devices, wearable shields, and manned spacecrafts. In the latter case, the in-space manufacturing of protective shields is highly desirable and remains an unmet need. Composites made of polymers and high atomic number fillers are potential means for radiation protection due to their low weight, good flexibility, and good processability. In the present work, we developed electrospun composites based on polycaprolactone (polymer matrix) and tungsten powder for application as shielding materials. Electrospinning is a versatile technology that is easily scalable at an industrial level and allows obtaining very lightweight, flexible sheet materials for wearables. By controlling tungsten powder size, we engineered homogeneous, stable and processable suspensions to fabricate radiation composite shielding sheets. The shielding capability was assessed by an in vivo model on prototype composite sheets containing 80 w% of W filler in a polycaprolactone (PCL) fibrous matrix by means of irradiation tests (X-rays) on mice. The obtained results are promising; as expected, the shielding effectivity of the developed composite material increases with the thickness/number of stacked layers. It is worth noting that a thin barrier consisting of 24 layers of the innovative shielding material reduces the extent of apoptosis by 1.5 times compared to the non-shielded mice.
Functionalized Modified Ti4O7 Polyaniline Coating for 316SS Bipolar Plate in Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Zhao Ting , Chen Zibin , Yi Xiaoqi , Huang Enfeng , Wang Yanli
Published: September 2024

In this paper, the PANI/PDA-Ti4O7 composite coating was prepared on 316L by constant current deposition with a current density of 2.8 mA·cm−2, in which the Ti4O7 powders were modified by PDA (polydopamine). The open-circuit potential of the obtained PANI/PDA-Ti4O7 composite coating is about 365 mVAg/AgCl, which is more positive than that of the bare 316L. During immersion in 1 M H2SO4 + 2 ppm HF for 200 h, the high stable corrosion potential and the lower Rf indicate that the composite coating has long-term corrosion resistance.
Entrapment of Cyanase from Thermomyces lanuginosus Using Biomimetic Silica and Its Application for Cyanate Bioremediation
Authors: How Su-Chun , Hsieh Chia-Jung , Yu Chi-Yang
Published: September 2024

Cyanate, a toxic product from the chemical oxidation treatment of highly toxic cyanide, can be converted to harmless ammonia and carbon dioxide by cyanase (EC 4.2.1.104). Cyanase from Thermomyces lanuginosus was entrapped in biomimetic silica to improve stability and reusability. After entrapment, the enzyme’s activity increased by two-fold, and the residual activity after 30-min of incubation at 60 °C also increased by two-fold, compared to the free enzyme. After being stored at room temperature for 28 days, the entrapped cyanase retained 79% of the initial activity, while the free form retained 61%. The immobilized cyanase was successfully applied to cyanate detoxification; the co-entrapment of carbonic anhydrase from Sulfurihydrogenibium azorense decreased the amount of bicarbonate necessary for cyanate detoxification by 50%. The cyanate degradation retained 53% of the initial value after the co-entrapped cyanate and carbonic anhydrase were reused five times.
Creation by Means of Loss and the Paradox of Expenditure—A Contribution of Theology to the Vulnerability Dispositive
Authors: Keul Hildegund
Published: September 2024

This article argues that the COVID-19 pandemic has created a new dispositive of power, the vulnerability dispositive, and it clears up what a power dispositive is. It then explains what theology can contribute to this new dispositive. The paradox of expenditure (creation by means of loss) plays a special role here. Human vulnerability is an unprecedented power in personal and political life, social and cultural life, and not least in religion. It is therefore not surprising that it has become a key concept in international, interdisciplinary research in recent decades. At least since the 1980s, it has resulted in an enormous number of scientific publications in almost all scientific disciplines. For Christian theology, this has particular significance because of the doctrine of the Incarnation: when God becomes human in Jesus Christ, God risks being wounded. Christianity ascribes salvific significance to this path into vulnerability. But what significance does this have for interdisciplinary discourse beyond theology? What can theology contribute to interdisciplinary vulnerability research? The starting point for the following considerations is a specific point in vulnerability discourse: the new dispositive of vulnerability that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. It made vulnerability an important argument in social, political, and religious debates. The vulnerability paradox is particularly important in this context. This paradox holds that strategies designed to protect against certain dangers paradoxically intensify the damage if that damage nevertheless occurs. Theology can supplement this paradox, which is highly destructive, with a paradox that in turn promotes and strengthens life: the expenditure paradox that says that creation can occur by means of loss.
The Conciliarist Idea of Islam in the Quattrocento—Prelude and Legacy
Authors: Demichelis Marco
Published: September 2024

This contribution intends to examine the impact of Conciliarism (1414–1439) on the Christian vision of Islam in the Quattrocento. The analysis of the thought of bishops such as Nicholas of Cusa (d. 1464) and John of Segovia (d. 1458) is understandable only through the evolution of the Latin world with regard to Islam, moving from the Corpus Toletanum (12th century) and the impact of the Crusades in the Levant (1096–1291) and in Europe. This forwardness is rooted in the process of “Islamic Christianization,” an analytical operation lasting three centuries, during which Koranic Christology was to play a primary role. It will be through this “Christ-centric” process that from the Renaissance, the Ottoman empire, the great enemy of Western Christianity, will be appreciated for some of its peculiar facets. The weakening of the concept of heresy and of Catholic ecclesiastical authoritarianism in decreeing what heresy was probably one of the “indirect” outcomes of that dialogical “Moment of Vision” between Christianity and Islam. The further fragmentation of the Church of Rome, after the failure of Conciliarism and the outgrowth of the reformed Churches in the 16th century, favored a preliminary different understanding of the religiosity of others.
Establishment of Remote Sensing Inversion Model and Its Application in Pollution Source Identification: A Case Study of East Lake in Wuhan
Authors: He Shiyue , Zhang Yanjun , Luo Lan , Song Yuanxin
Published: September 2024

In remote watersheds or large water bodies, monitoring water quality parameters is often impractical due to high costs and time-consuming processes. To address this issue, a cost-effective methodology based on remote sensing was developed to predict water quality parameters over a large and operationally challenging area, especially focusing on East Lake. Sentinel-2 satellite image data were used as a proxy, and a multiple linear regression model was developed to quantify water quality parameters, namely chlorophyll-a, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, ammonia nitrogen and chemical oxygen demand. This model was then applied to East Lake to obtain the temporal and spatial distribution of these water quality parameters. By identifying the locations with the highest concentrations along the boundaries of East Lake, potential pollution sources could be inferred. The results demonstrate that the developed multiple linear regression model provided a satisfactory relationship between the measured and simulated water quality parameters. The coefficients of determination R2 of the multiple linear regression models for chlorophyll-a, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, ammonia nitrogen and chemical oxygen demand were 0.943, 0.781, 0.470, 0.624 and 0.777, respectively. The potential pollution source locations closely matched the officially published information on East Lake pollutant discharges. Therefore, using remote sensing imagery to establish a multiple linear regression model is a feasible approach for understanding the exceedance and distribution of various water quality parameters in East Lake.
Enhancing Cybersecurity in Healthcare: Evaluating Ensemble Learning Models for Intrusion Detection in the Internet of Medical Things
Authors: Alsolami Theyab , Alsharif Bader , Ilyas Mohammad
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the efficacy of machine learning models for intrusion detection in the Internet of Medical Things, aiming to enhance cybersecurity defenses and protect sensitive healthcare data. The analysis focuses on evaluating the performance of ensemble learning algorithms, specifically Stacking, Bagging, and Boosting, using Random Forest and Support Vector Machines as base models on the WUSTL-EHMS-2020 dataset. Through a comprehensive examination of performance metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, Stacking demonstrates exceptional accuracy and reliability in detecting and classifying cyber attack incidents with an accuracy rate of 98.88%. Bagging is ranked second, with an accuracy rate of 97.83%, while Boosting yielded the lowest accuracy rate of 88.68%.
Multi-Fingerprints Indoor Localization for Variable Spatial Environments: A Naive Bayesian Approach
Authors: Hou Chengjie , Zhang Zhizhong
Published: September 2024

Fingerprint-based indoor localization has been a hot research topic. However, the current fingerprint-based indoor localization approaches still rely on a single fingerprint database, where the average level of data at reference points is used as the fingerprint representation. In variable environmental conditions, the variations in signals caused by changes in the environmental states introduce significant deviations between the average level and the actual fingerprint characteristics. This deviation leads to a mismatch between the constructed fingerprint database and the real-world conditions, thereby affecting the effectiveness of fingerprint matching. Meanwhile, the sharp noise interference caused by uncertainties such as personnel movement has a significant interference on the creation of the fingerprint database and fingerprint matching in online stage. Examination of the sampling data after denoising with Robust Principal Component Analysis (RPCA) revealed distinct multi-fingerprint characteristics with clear boundaries at certain access points. Based on these observations, the concept of constructing a fingerprint database using multiple fingerprints is introduced and its feasibility is explored. Additionally, a multi-fingerprint solution based on naive Bayes classification is proposed to accurately represent fingerprint characteristics under different environmental conditions. This method is based on the online stage fingerprints. The corresponding state space is selected using the naive Bayes classifier, enabling the selection of an appropriate fingerprint database for matching. Through simulations and empirical evaluations, the proposed multi-fingerprints construction scheme consistently outperforms the traditional single-fingerprint database in terms of positioning accuracy across all tested localization algorithms.
Research on the Depth Image Reconstruction Algorithm Using the Two-Dimensional Kaniadakis Entropy Threshold
Authors: Yang Xianhui , Sun Jianfeng , Ma Le , Zhou Xin , Lu Wei , Li Sining
Published: September 2024

The photon-counting light laser detection and ranging (LiDAR), especially the Geiger mode avalanche photon diode (Gm-APD) LiDAR, can obtain three-dimensional images of the scene, with the characteristics of single-photon sensitivity, but the background noise limits the imaging quality of the laser radar. In order to solve this problem, a depth image estimation method based on a two-dimensional (2D) Kaniadakis entropy thresholding method is proposed which transforms a weak signal extraction problem into a denoising problem for point cloud data. The characteristics of signal peak aggregation in the data and the spatio-temporal correlation features between target image elements in the point cloud-intensity data are exploited. Through adequate simulations and outdoor target-imaging experiments under different signal-to-background ratios (SBRs), the effectiveness of the method under low signal-to-background ratio conditions is demonstrated. When the SBR is 0.025, the proposed method reaches a target recovery rate of 91.7%, which is better than the existing typical methods, such as the Peak-picking method, Cross-Correlation method, and the sparse Poisson intensity reconstruction algorithm (SPIRAL), which achieve a target recovery rate of 15.7%, 7.0%, and 18.4%, respectively. Additionally, comparing with the SPIRAL, the reconstruction recovery ratio is improved by 73.3%. The proposed method greatly improves the integrity of the target under high-background-noise environments and finally provides a basis for feature extraction and target recognition.
Research on Fault Diagnosis of Rolling Bearing Based on Gramian Angular Field and Lightweight Model
Authors: Shen Jingtao , Wu Zhe , Cao Yachao , Zhang Qiang , Cui Yanping
Published: September 2024

Due to the limitations of deep learning models in processing one-dimensional signal feature extraction, and high model complexity leading to low training accuracy and large consumption of computing resources, this paper innovatively proposes a rolling bearing fault diagnosis method based on Gramian Angular Field (GAF) and enhanced lightweight residual network. Firstly, the one-dimensional signal is transformed into a two-dimensional GAF image, fully preserving the signal’s temporal dependency. Secondly, to address the parameter redundancy and high computational complexity of the ResNet-18 model, its residual blocks are improved. The second convolutional layer in the downsampling residual blocks is removed, traditional convolutional layers are replaced with depthwise separable convolutions, and the lightweight Efficient Channel Attention (ECA) module is embedded after each residual block. This further enhances the model’s ability to capture key features while maintaining low computational cost, resulting in a lightweight model referred to as E-ResNet13. Finally, the generated GAF feature maps are fed into the E-ResNet13 model for training, and through a global average pooling layer, they are mapped to a fully connected layer for classifying the faults of rolling bearings. Verifying the superiority of the proposed GAF-E-ResNet13 model, experimental results show that the GAF image encoding method achieves higher fault recognition accuracy compared to other encoding methods. Compared with other intelligent diagnosis methods, the E-ResNet13 model demonstrates strong diagnostic performance and generalization capability under both a single condition and complex varying conditions, fully proving the innovation and practicality of this method.
The Use of Triaxial Accelerometers and Machine Learning Algorithms for Behavioural Identification in Domestic Dogs (Canis familiaris): A Validation Study
Authors: Redmond Cushla , Smit Michelle , Draganova Ina , Corner-Thomas Rene , Thomas David , Andrews Christopher
Published: September 2024

Assessing the behaviour and physical attributes of domesticated dogs is critical for predicting the suitability of animals for companionship or specific roles such as hunting, military or service. Common methods of behavioural assessment can be time consuming, labour-intensive, and subject to bias, making large-scale and rapid implementation challenging. Objective, practical and time effective behaviour measures may be facilitated by remote and automated devices such as accelerometers. This study, therefore, aimed to validate the ActiGraph® accelerometer as a tool for behavioural classification. This study used a machine learning method that identified nine dog behaviours with an overall accuracy of 74% (range for each behaviour was 54 to 93%). In addition, overall body dynamic acceleration was found to be correlated with the amount of time spent exhibiting active behaviours (barking, locomotion, scratching, sniffing, and standing; R2 = 0.91, p < 0.001). Machine learning was an effective method to build a model to classify behaviours such as barking, defecating, drinking, eating, locomotion, resting-asleep, resting-alert, sniffing, and standing with high overall accuracy whilst maintaining a large behavioural repertoire.
Calibration of Low-Cost Moisture Sensors in a Biochar-Amended Sandy Loam Soil with Different Salinity Levels
Authors: Gómez-Astorga María José , Villagra-Mendoza Karolina , Masís-Meléndez Federico , Ruíz-Barquero Aníbal , Rimolo-Donadio Renato
Published: September 2024

With the increasing focus on irrigation management, it is crucial to consider cost-effective alternatives for soil water monitoring, such as multi-point monitoring with low-cost soil moisture sensors. This study assesses the accuracy and functionality of low-cost sensors in a sandy loam (SL) soil amended with biochar at rates of 15.6 and 31.2 tons/ha by calibrating the sensors in the presence of two nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) commercial fertilizers at three salinity levels (non/slightly/moderately) and six soil water contents. Sensors were calibrated across nine SL-soil combinations with biochar and N and K fertilizers, counting for 21 treatments. The best fit for soil water content calibration was obtained using polynomial equations, demonstrating reliability with R2 values greater than 0.98 for each case. After a second calibration, low-cost soil moisture sensors provide acceptable results concerning previous calibration, especially for non- and slightly saline treatments and at soil moisture levels lower than 0.17 cm3cm−3. The results showed that at low frequencies, biochar and salinity increase the capacitance detected by the sensors, with calibration curves deviating up to 30% from the control sandy loam soil. Due to changes in the physical and chemical properties of soil resulting from biochar amendments and the conductive properties influenced by fertilization practices, it is required to conduct specific and continuous calibrations of soil water content sensor, leading to better agricultural management decisions.
Exploring the Potential of Soil and Water Conservation Measures for Climate Resilience in Burkina Faso
Authors: Naba Carine , Ishidaira Hiroshi , Magome Jun , Souma Kazuyoshi
Published: September 2024

Sahelian countries including Burkina Faso face multiple challenges related to climatic conditions. Setting up effective disaster management plans is essential for protecting livelihoods and promoting sustainable development. Soil and water conservation measures (SWCMs) are emerging as key components of such plans, particularly in Burkina Faso. However, there is an insufficiency of studies exploring their potential as green infrastructures in the Sahelian context and this research aims to contribute to filling this gap. We used national data, remote sensing, and GIS tools to assess SWCM adoption and the potential for climate resilience. Stone ribbons emerged as the most widely adopted SWCM, covering 2322.4 km2 especially in the northern regions, while filtering dikes were the least widely adopted, at 126.4 km2. Twenty years of NDVI analysis showed a notable vegetation increase in Yatenga (0.075), Oudalan (0.073), and provinces with a high prevalence of SWCM practices. There was also an apparent increase in SWCM percentages from 60% of land degradation. Stone ribbons could have led to a runoff reduction of 13.4% in Bam province, highlighting their effectiveness in climate resilience and flood risk mitigation. Overall, encouraging the adoption of SWCMs offers a sustainable approach to mitigating climate-related hazards and promoting resilience in Sahelian countries such as Burkina Faso.
Anaerobic Digestion of Food Waste with the Addition of Biochar Derived from Microwave Catalytic Pyrolysis of Solid Digestate
Authors: Saucedo Sofia Lucero , Lau Anthony
Published: September 2024

This study explores the potential of biochar derived from microwave-assisted catalytic pyrolysis of solid digestate as an additive to enhance the stability and performance of the anaerobic digestion process. The focus was placed on the effects of biochar dosage, pyrolysis temperature, and pyrolysis catalyst on methane production. Biochemical methane potential (BMP) tests using synthetic food waste as the substrate revealed a dosage-dependent relationship with specific methane yield (SMY). At a low biochar dosage of 0.1 g/g total solids (TS), improvement in methane (CH4) production was marginal, whereas a high dosage of 0.6 g/g TS increased CH4 content by at least 10% and improved yield by 35–52%. ANOVA analysis indicated that biochar dosage level significantly influenced CH4 yield, while pyrolysis temperature (400 °C vs. 500 °C) and catalyst (20 wt% K3PO4 vs. 10 wt% K3PO4/10 wt% clinoptilolite) did not lead to significant differences in CH4 yield between the treatments. Correlation analysis results suggested that biochar’s most impactful properties on methane yield would be dosage-adjusted specific surface area (or total surface area per unit volume of substrate) and aromaticity index. The findings underscore the potential of solid-digestate-derived biochar as a beneficial additive for anaerobic digestion and hence the sustainability of food waste management system.
The Effect of Smart City Policies on City Innovation—A Quasi-Natural Experiment from the Smart City Pilot Cities in China
Authors: Chen Shuxing , Zhang Xu , Wang Wei , Liang Yunhao , He Wei , Tan Zhixiong
Published: September 2024

The smart city pilot plan plays a pivotal role in the modernization of urban development within Digital China. To accelerate economic growth and establish a nation driven by innovation, it is crucial to examine the impact of smart city pilot programs on urban innovation. This research evaluates the effects of these policies using a multi-period difference-in-differences (DID) model. The findings indicate a significant enhancement in innovation levels within cities that participated in China’s smart city pilot program. These results remain robust even after rigorous validity tests. Mechanism testing reveals that the development of smart city pilot cities primarily boosts urban innovation through industrial upgrading and increased informatization. Additionally, heterogeneity tests show that the influence of smart city policies on urban innovation varies according to the geographical characteristics of different cities. Based on these insights, this study provides recommendations to further strengthen urban innovation by optimizing smart city policies. These include crafting differentiated smart city strategies, promoting the digital transformation of cities, and increasing economic support for smart city initiatives.
Decoupling Analysis of Economic Growth and Carbon Emissions in Xinjiang Based on Tapio and Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index Models
Authors: Jing Le , Zhou Bin , Liao Zhenliang
Published: September 2024

In light of China’s ambitious goals to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, this study uniquely explores the decoupling dynamics between economic growth and carbon emissions in Xinjiang using panel data from 2006 to 2020 across various prefectures and cities. By employing the Tapio decoupling elasticity index and the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) decoupling model, we found that Xinjiang, as a whole, has not fully decoupled its carbon emissions from economic growth, with overall emissions below the national average. The carbon emissions growth rate in Xinjiang has significantly decreased from 17.7% during 2005–2010 to 3.35% in 2015–2020, with weak decoupling particularly evident in northern and eastern regions. To achieve full decoupling, it is imperative for policymakers to reform the economic growth model in northern Xinjiang and restructure the energy mix in eastern Xinjiang. Additionally, the promotion of low-carbon industries and the enhancement of green energy efficiency are crucial for advancing the region’s sustainable development.
Enhancing Emotional Stability and Mental Comfort in Older Adults through a Nostalgic VR Game: A Technology Acceptance Model Analysis
Authors: Chiang Chi-Hui , Su Zhi-Yuan , Li Chu-Fen , Liu I-Hsien , Liu Chuan-Kang
Published: September 2024

Upon observing the daily lives of older adults, they often experience comfort and emotional stability through nostalgic memories. Hence, this study develops a nostalgic VR game from which older adults can obtain a similar sense of comfort and emotional satisfaction. This study extends the technology acceptance model (TAM) to analyze factors influencing older adults’ intention to adopt this VR game. The study involved 102 older adults who participated in the VR experience. The VR game was developed using the Unity engine, designed specifically to trigger nostalgic memories. The analysis shows that the questionnaire was highly reliable. The analysis also revealed that PEOU significantly influences PU (β = 0.559, p < 0.001) and PE (β = 0.694, p < 0.001). PU positively impacts HIPG (β = 0.321, p < 0.05), while ATG strongly influences HIPG (β = 0.270, p < 0.01). The extended TAM model explained 57.3% of the variance in HIPG (R2 = 0.573), indicating the substantial impact of these factors on older adults’ intention to engage with the VR game. These results provide valuable insights for developers and healthcare providers aiming to integrate VR as a health tool for older adults.
Analysis of Factors Affecting the Accuracy of MFD Construction in Multisource Complex Data Scenarios
Authors: Hong Rongrong
Published: September 2024

The macroscopic fundamental diagram (MFD), as a model depicting the correlation between traffic flow parameters at the network level, offers a new way to understand regional traffic state using derived traffic flow data from detectors directly. The accuracy of MFD construction is directly related to factors such as the type of detectors, their distribution, and their quantity within the road network. Understanding these influencing factors and mechanisms is crucial for enhancing the reliability of MFD-based applications such as congestion pricing and threshold control. Present investigations on factors that affect MFD construction’s accuracy have frequently been confined to sensitivity analysis of single-source data and individual influencing factors such as the penetration rate. However, the accuracy of MFD is influenced by a multitude of factors, including the spatial distribution equilibrium, penetration rate, and coverage rate of traffic flow detection equipment. Despite this, this paper utilized the Q-paramics simulation software V6.8.1 to acquire simulated data and employed the orthogonal experimental method from statistics to explore the impact mechanisms of factors on the accuracy of MFD construction. The results of the case study demonstrated that when the penetration rate reaches 20%, the error remains approximately around 10%; once the coverage rate surpasses 45%, the errors stabilize at around 10%. This study provides practical guidance for traffic management and planning decisions aimed at promoting sustainable development through the application of MFD in real-world road networks.
Evaluation of Environmental Impacts in Legume Crops: A Case Study of PGI White Bean Production in Southern Europe
Authors: Pérez Reina , Fernández Cecilia , Laca Amanda , Laca Adriana
Published: September 2024

A small-scale organic crop producing the protected geographical indication (PGI) cultivar “Faba Asturiana”, located in northern Spain, was considered to be a case study for analyzing the environmental impacts associated with the production of this legume (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). The life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology was employed for the analysis with a “cradle-to-gate” perspective, with 1 kg of dry beans as the functional unit. The results demonstrated that the main contributor to the environmental impacts was electricity consumption (with percentages above 75% for ionizing radiation, freshwater eutrophication, terrestrial ecotoxicity, and non-carcinogenic toxicity). A carbon footprint (CF) of 1.20 kg CO2eq per kg of dry beans was obtained (around 1000 kg CO2/ha·y). Electricity consumption was the major contributor to the CF, followed by atmospheric emissions from waste incineration and diesel use. Furthermore, some environmental improvements were suggested, and three alternative scenarios were investigated. In conclusion, it can be established that the CF of the studied PGI bean is within the range reported by other researchers for leguminous crops. The easiest way to reduce the CF for this particular crop would be to compost the organic waste instead of burning it. Additionally, the most effective strategy would be to reduce energy consumption or use renewable energy sources. For example, if the energy supply were obtained through in situ solar production, the CF could be reduced by more than 40%.
RETRACTED: Abdelmalek, Z.; Abdollahzadeh Jamalabadi, M.Y. Numerical Simulation of Micromixing of Particles and Fluids with Galloping Cylinder. Symmetry 2020, 12, 580
Authors: Abdelmalek Zahra , Abdollahzadeh Jamalabadi Mohammad Yaghoub
Published: September 2024

The journal retracts the article titled “Numerical Simulation of Micromixing of Particles and Fluids with Galloping Cylinder” [...]
Optimized Tool Motion Symmetry for Strip-Width-Max Mfg of Sculptured Surfaces with Non-Ball Tools Based on Envelope Approximation
Authors: Zhou Kaihong , Liu Haixu , Li Shu
Published: September 2024

The problem of machining complex surfaces with non-ball-end cutters by strip-width-maximization machining is formulated as a kind of surface fitting problem in which the tool surface envelope feature line approximates the design surface under the movement transform. The theory of surface envelope−approximation is proposed as a general method for optimizing tool movement in single-contact strip-width-maximization machining of sculptured surfaces with non-ball-end cutters. Based on the surface moving frame, the velocity equations and transformation matrices for the tool motion relative to the workpiece, described by the motion-invariant parameters of the tool surface and design surface, are derived. A functional extremum model for optimizing the tool position ensures continuous and symmetrical motion relative to the workpiece to achieve the highest machining efficiency and accuracy. Finally, a Matlab-based simulation example verifies the machining efficiency and accuracy of the envelope approximation theory.
Use of Botulinum Toxin in Upper-Limb Tremor: Systematic Review and Perspectives
Authors: Motavasseli Damien , Delorme Cécile , Bayle Nicolas , Gracies Jean-Michel , Roze Emmanuel , Baude Marjolaine
Published: September 2024

Background: Tremor is the most common movement disorder, with significant functional and psychosocial consequences. Oral medications have been disappointing or limited by side effects. Surgical techniques are effective but associated with risks and adverse events. Botulinum toxin (BT) represents a promising avenue but there is still no double-blind evidence of efficacy on upper limb function. A systematic review on the effects of BT in upper-limb tremor was conducted. Methods: A systematic search of the literature was conducted up to July 2023, including the keywords “botulinum toxin” and “tremor”. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and open-label studies were analyzed. Independent reviewers assessed their methodological quality. Results: There were only eight published RCTs and seven published open-label studies, with relatively small sample sizes. This review suggests that BT is more effective when injections are patient-tailored, with analyses based on clinical judgement or kinematics. Subjective and objective measures frequently improve but transient weakness may occur after injections, especially if wrist or fingers extensors are targeted. A number of studies had methodological limitations. Conclusions: The authors discuss how to optimize tremor assessments and effects of BT injection. Controlled evidence is still lacking but it is suggested that distal “asymmetric” BT injections (targeting flexors/pronators while sparing extensors/supinators) and proximal injections, involving shoulder rotators when indicated, may avoid excessive weakness while optimizing functional benefit.
Harm Reduction in Peer-Assisted Telemedicine for Hepatitis C: Secondary Outcomes of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Spencer Hunter , Gregoire Devin , Leichtling Gillian , Herink Megan , Seaman Andrew , Korthuis P. Todd , Cook Ryan
Published: September 2024

Hepatitis C (HCV) treatment for people who use drugs (PWUD) decreases injection drug use and injection equipment sharing. We examined changes in injection drug use and injection equipment sharing following HCV treatment in a randomized trial comparing peer-assisted telemedicine for HCV treatment (TeleHCV) versus peer-assisted usual care in rural PWUD. We hypothesize that TeleHCV reduces risky behaviors and peers facilitate this change. We used mixed-effects logistic regression to describe participant-level (n = 203) associations between both injection drug use and injection equipment sharing and randomized groups, frequency of peer contact, HCV treatment initiation, HCV cure, and time. Risky behaviors were surveyed at baseline and 12 and 36 weeks after HCV treatment completion. Injection drug use declined more over time in TeleHCV participants vs. control at 12 weeks (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.42, 95% CI 0.20–0.87, p = 0.02) and 36 weeks (aOR = 0.48, 95% CI 0.21–1.08, p = 0.076). Injection drug use decreased more with a greater number of peer interactions, with reductions among participants in the 3rd quartile exceeding those in the 1st quartile of peer interactions at 12 weeks (aOR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.57–0.99, p = 0.04). Similarly, injection equipment sharing decreased over time, with reductions among participants in the 3rd quartile exceeding those in the 1st quartile of peer interactions at 36 weeks (aOR = 0.08, 95% CI 0.01–0.97, p = 0.047). Peer-assisted telemedicine for HCV treatment decreases injection drug use and injection equipment sharing; peers contribute to this effect.
Dynamics of Acute Infection with Mammarenavirus Wenzhouense in Rattus norvegicus
Authors: Du Shanshan , Deng Xuefei , Huang Xiaoxia , Liu Tiezhu , Li Aqian , Wang Qin , Tian Tingting , Li Chuan , Zheng Zhangqi , Lin Qihan , Li Zhuowei , Wang Shiwen , Li Jiandong
Published: September 2024

While Mammarenavirus Wenzhouense (WENV) is broadly distributed across Asia, the dynamics of WENV infection remain unclear. In this study, a field-derived strain of WENV was used to inoculate Sprague Dawley (SD) rats by intramuscular injection, and the process of viral infection was observed over the course of 28 d. Viral RNA became detectable in the blood at 3 dpi and remained detectable for about 12 d. In most organ tissues, viral RNA peaked at 7 dpi, and then began to decline by 14 d, but remained detectable in intestine and brain tissues at 21 and 28 dpi. Viral shedding was detected from fecal samples for 5 d, from 6 to 11 dpi using qRT-PCR, and was recovered from feces collected at 8 dpi. Horizontal contact infection occurred among cage-mates at 14 and 21 dpi. Antibodies against the nucleocapsid were detected at 5 dpi, and then increased and persisted until the end of the experiment. These results enabled us to determine the kinetics of viremic response, viral shedding in feces, and horizontal transmission dynamics, as well as the potential sites for WENV replication and viral maintenance in nature.
Analysis of the Spatiotemporal Trends of Standardized Drought Indices in Sicily Using ERA5-Land Reanalysis Data (1950–2023)
Authors: Aschale Tagele Mossie , Cancelliere Antonino , Palazzolo Nunziarita , Buonacera Gaetano , Peres David J.
Published: September 2024

In this study, a spatiotemporal analysis of drought occurrence and trends across Sicily using ERA50-Land continuous gridded data is carried out. We first use the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) to evaluate drought conditions at various time scales from 1950 to 2023. Then, the Modified Mann–Kendall test was employed to detect trends and Sen’s slope estimator was used to quantify their magnitude. An analysis of the historical series confirms that 2002 was the most severe drought year, impacting all time scales from short-term to long-term. The spatial analysis revealed that the western regions of Sicily experienced the highest severity and frequency of drought events. In contrast, the northeastern regions were less severely affected compared with the other parts of the island. The analysis detects significant increasing trends in SPI values in the eastern coastal areas of the island, which are related to a possible historical increase in precipitation. On the other hand, the analysis of the SPEI indicates significant decreasing trends in the western part of the island, which are mainly related to increased evapotranspiration rates. These results are partially consistent with previous analyses of future climate change scenarios, where changes in the SPEI values in the island are projected to be way clearer than changes in SPI values.
Comprehensive Assessment of Climate Change Impacts on River Water Availability for Irrigation, Wheat Crop Area Coverage, and Irrigation Canal Hydraulic Capacity of Large-Scale Irrigation Scheme in Nepal
Authors: Kaini Santosh , Harrison Matthew Tom , Gardner Ted , Sharma Ashok K.
Published: September 2024

While atmospheric warming intensifies the global water cycle, regionalised effects of climate change on water loss, irrigation supply, and food security are highly variable. Here, we elucidate the impacts of the climate crisis on irrigation water availability and cropping area in Nepal’s largest irrigation scheme, the Sunsari Morang Irrigation Scheme (SMIS), by accounting for the hydraulic capacity of existing canal systems, and potential changes realised under future climates. To capture variability implicit in climate change projections, we invoke multiple Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs; 4.5 and 8.5) across three time horizons (2016–2045, 2036–2065, and 2071–2100). We reveal that although climate change increases water availability to agriculture from December through March, the designed discharge of 60 m3/s would not be available in February-March for both RCPs under all three time horizons. Weed growth, silt deposition, and poor maintenance have reduced the current canal capacity from the design capacity of 60 m3/s to 53 m3/s up to 10.7 km from the canal intake (representing a 12% reduction in the discharge capacity of the canal). Canal flow is further reduced to 35 m3/s at 13.8 km from canal intake, representing a 27% reduction in flow capacity relative to the original design standards. Based on climate projections, and assuming ceteris paribus irrigation infrastructure, total wheat cropping area could increase by 12–19%, 23–27%, and 12–35% by 2016–2045, 2036–2065, and 2071–2100, respectively, due to increased water availability borne by the changing climate. The case for further investment in irrigation infrastructure via water diversion, or installation of efficient pumps at irrigation canal intakes is compelling. Such investment would catalyse a step-change in the agricultural economy that is urgently needed to sustain the Nepalese economy, and thus evoke beneficial cascading implications for global food security.
The Temperature-Influenced Scaling Law of Hydraulic Conductivity of Sand under the Centrifugal Environment
Authors: He Jianjian , Jiang Xihao , Wang Yubing
Published: September 2024

Accurate characterization of soil hydraulic conductivity influenced by temperature under a centrifugal environment is important for hydraulic and geotechnical engineering. Therefore, a temperature-influenced scaling law for hydraulic conductivity of soil in centrifuge modeling was deduced, and a temperature-controlled falling-head permeameter apparatus specifically designed for centrifuge modeling was also developed. Subsequently, a series of temperature-controlled falling-head tests were conducted under varying centrifugal accelerations to achieve the following objectives: (1) examine the performance of the apparatus, (2) investigate the influence of temperature and centrifugal acceleration on the hydraulic conductivity of sand and its scaling factor, and (3) validate the proposed scaling law for hydraulic conductivity. The main conclusions of the study are as follows. Firstly, the apparatus demonstrated good sealing and effectively controlled the temperature of both the soil specimen and the fluid. Secondly, the hydraulic conductivity of sand was not constant but varied over time, likely due to the presence of radial seepage in addition to vertical seepage as the test progressed. Thirdly, temperature significantly influenced the hydraulic conductivity of sand and its scaling factor under the same centrifugal acceleration. Therefore, it is essential to closely monitor the temperature of models during centrifugal tests. Finally, the measured and calculated values of the scaling factor index for the hydraulic conductivity of sand showed good agreement, verifying the proposed scaling law.
The Hydrologic Mitigation Effectiveness of Bioretention Basins in an Urban Area Prone to Flash Flooding
Authors: Laub Brian G. , Von Bon Eugene , May Lani , Garcia Mel
Published: September 2024

The hydrologic performance and cost-effectiveness of green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) in climates with highly variable precipitation is an important subject in urban stormwater management. We measured the hydrologic effects of two bioretention basins in San Antonio, Texas, a growing city in a region prone to flash flooding. Pre-construction, inflow, and outflow hydrographs of the basins were compared to test whether the basins reduced peak flow magnitude and altered the metrics of flashiness, including rate of flow rise and fall. We determined the construction and annual maintenance cost of one basin and whether precipitation magnitude and antecedent moisture conditions altered hydrologic mitigation effectiveness. The basins reduced flashiness when comparing inflow to outflow and pre-construction to outflow hydrographs, including reducing peak flow magnitudes by >80% on average. Basin performance was not strongly affected by precipitation magnitude or antecedent conditions, though the range of precipitation magnitudes sampled was limited. Construction costs were higher than previously reported projects, but annual maintenance costs were similar and no higher than costs to maintain an equivalent landscaped area. Results indicate that bioretention basins effectively mitigate peak flow and flashiness, even in flash-flood-prone environments, which should benefit downstream ecosystems. The results provide a unique assessment of bioretention basin performance in flash-flood-prone environments and can inform the optimization of cost-effectiveness when implementing GSI at watershed scales in regions with current or future similar precipitation regimes.