bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Mechanism of Fluid Exsolution and Sn–W Precipitation: Example from the Hongling Pb–Zn Polymetallic Deposit and the Surrounding Area in Northern China
Authors: Shan Xiaoyu , Xie Yuling , Yu Qingjun , Chen Jiade , Yu Chao , Xia Jiaming , Liu Aixin
Published: October 2023

Metal migration and precipitation in hydrothermal fluids are important topics in economic geology. The Hongling polymetallic deposit comprises one of the most important parts of the Huanggangliang–Ganzhuermiao polymetallic metallogenic belt, which is in eastern Inner Mongolia. Except for lead–zinc skarn, minor cassiterite in the skarn and disseminated W–Sn mineralization in granitic rocks have also been found. The dominant Sn–W mineralization is in the northern part of the deposit, occurring as disseminated wolframite and cassiterite in aplite hosted in Mesozoic granite porphyry. The aplite together with pegmatite K-feldspar–quartz comprises vein dikes hosted in the granite porphyry, providing evidence for the transition from melt to fluid. The veins, dikes, and Sn–W mineralization in the aplite provide an opportunity to investigate fluid exsolution and the mechanics of metal precipitation. Based on field observations, the micrographic and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) results of the vein dikes, chronology, and the whole-rock geochemistry of the host rock, together with the fluid inclusion results, this paper discusses the characteristics of the causative magma, the mechanics of fluid exsolution and W–Sn precipitation. Our results show that the causative magma is of highly fractionated A-type granite affinity and has an intrusive age of late Mesozoic (133.3 ± 0.86 Ma). The magmatic evolution during shallow emplacement led to immiscibility between highly volatile, high-silica, and W- and Sn-enriched melts from the parent magma, followed by fluid exsolution from the water-rich melt. The alkaline-rich fluid exsolution led to a change in the redox state of the magma and the chilling of the melt. Fluid boiling occurred soon after the fluid exsolution and was accompanied by the degassing of CO2. The boiling and escape of CO2 from the fluid led to changes in fluid redox and W and Sn precipitation; thus, the W and Sn mineralization are mostly hosted in causative intrusions or peripheral wall rocks, which can be used as indicators for Sn–W exploration in the area.
The Correlation between Core Muscular Endurance, Body Composition, and Back Pain in Firefighters: An Observational Study
Authors: Sanregret Shelby , Kohler Austin Alan , Moore Andrew Ray , Holland-Winkler Angelia Maleah
Published: October 2023

Firefighters are at a higher risk for experiencing back pain due to the nature of their job, but physical fitness may help to reduce this risk. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study was to determine if a correlation between subjective back pain severity and core muscular endurance exists in firefighters. A secondary purpose was to determine if age or body composition were correlated with back pain severity. This cross-sectional study was performed at a fire department during their Physical Fitness Assessment Program and included 72 male firefighters. Measures included weight, body fat percentage, maximal plank hold times for core muscular endurance, and the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire. A Pearson product correlation analysis was performed between back pain score and each of the following variables: body fat percentage, BMI, age, and plank hold times. A second set of correlation coefficient analyses was performed between the same variables exclusively in subjects who reported back pain. This study found that, within this population of firefighters, there was no significant correlation between back pain and plank times or body composition variables, although there was a trend toward significant correlations between BMI and body fat percentage when only subjects with back pain were considered.
Harnessing Nuclear Energy to Gold Nanoparticles for the Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy of Glioblastoma
Authors: Li Jui-Ping , Kuo Yu-Cheng , Liao Wei-Neng , Yang Ya-Ting , Chen Sih-Yu , Chien Yu-Ting , Wu Kuo-Hung , Wang Mei-Ya , Chou Fong-In , Yang Mo-Hsiung , Hueng Dueng-Yuan , Yang Chung-Shi , Chen Jen-Kun
Published: October 2023

Nuclear fission reactions can release massive amounts of energy accompanied by neutrons and γ photons, which create a mixed radiation field and enable a series of reactions in nuclear reactors. This study demonstrates a one-pot/one-step approach to synthesizing radioactive gold nanoparticles (RGNP) without using radioactive precursors and reducing agents. Trivalent gold ions are reduced into gold nanoparticles (8.6–146 nm), and a particular portion of 197Au atoms is simultaneously converted to 198Au atoms, rendering the nanoparticles radioactive. We suggest that harnessing nuclear energy to gold nanoparticles is feasible in the interests of advancing nanotechnology for cancer therapy. A combination of RGNP applied through convection-enhanced delivery (CED) and temozolomide (TMZ) through oral administration demonstrates the synergistic effect in treating glioblastoma-bearing mice. The mean survival for RGNP/TMZ treatment was 68.9 ± 9.7 days compared to that for standalone RGNP (38.4 ± 2.2 days) or TMZ (42.8 ± 2.5 days) therapies. Based on the verification of bioluminescence images, positron emission tomography, and immunohistochemistry inspection, the combination treatment can inhibit the proliferation of glioblastoma, highlighting the niche of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) attributed to RGNP and TMZ.
Bacillus Subtilis (BG01-4TM) Improves Self-Reported Symptoms for Constipation, Indigestion, and Dyspepsia: A Phase 1/2A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Patch Craig , Pearce Alan J. , Cheng Mek , Boyapati Ray , Brenna J. Thomas
Published: October 2023

Background: Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are common, difficult-to-manage conditions. Probiotics are emerging as a dietary component that influence gastrointestinal (GI) health. We conducted a double-blinded randomised controlled trial of a proprietary strain of deactivated Bacillus subtilis (BG01-4™) high in branched-chain fatty acids (BCFA) to treat self-reported FGID. Methods: Participants (n = 67) completed a four-week intervention of BG01-4™ (n = 34) or placebo (n = 33). The Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) served as the outcome measure, collected prior to, at two weeks, and at four weeks after completion of the intervention. Results: At four weeks, one of three primary outcomes, constipation in the experimental group, was improved by 33% compared to placebo (15%); both other primary outcomes, Total GSRS and diarrhoea, were significantly improved in both the experimental and placebo groups (32%/26% and 20%/22%, respectively). The pre-planned secondary outcome, indigestion, was improved at four weeks (32%) but compared to the placebo (21%) was not significant (p = 0.079). Exploratory analysis, however, revealed that clusters for constipation (18% improvement, p < 0.001), indigestion (11% improvement, p = 0.04), and dyspepsia (10% improvement, p = 0.04) were significantly improved in the intervention group compared to the placebo. Conclusions: These initial findings suggest that in people with self-reported FGID, BG01-4™ improves specific symptoms of constipation and related GI dysfunction. Longer-term confirmatory studies for this intervention are warranted. Trial registration: This study was registered prospectively (25 October 2021) at the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12621001441808p).
Efficacy and Safety of a High-Energy, Low-Protein Formula Replacement Meal for Pre-Dialysis Chronic Kidney Disease Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yang Wen-Ching , Hsieh Hui-Min , Chen Jun-Peng , Tsai Shang-Feng , Chiu Hsien-Fu , Chung Mu-Chi , Huang Shih-Ting , Chen Yun-Yu , Chen Cheng-Hsu
Published: October 2023

High-energy, low-protein formulas (HE-LPFs) are commonly used as oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) to help provide extra calories to patients who are adhering to a low-protein diet (LPD) after diagnosis with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an HE-LPF as either a partial or a total replacement for one meal in pre-dialysis CKD patients. Stage 4–5 CKD patients received either a once-daily HE-LPF (HE-LPF group) or normal food (control group) for a period of 4 weeks while following an LPD. Overall, 73 patients who completed the study were included in the intention-to-treat population. After analyzing the 3-day food records, the HE-LPF group experienced a significant decrease in the percentage of energy derived from protein (p < 0.05) and an increase in the percentage of energy derived from fat (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. The two groups had no significant differences in body weight, body composition, grip strength, renal function, electrolytes, or metabolic markers. The HE-LPF group had a high adherence (94.9% at week 4), and no adverse effects were observed. HE-LPFs are safe to employ as meal replacements for pre-dialysis CKD patients adhering to an LPD.
Influences of Yogurt with Functional Ingredients from Various Sources That Help Treat Leaky Gut on Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction in Caco-2 Cells
Authors: Aleman Ricardo S. , Page Ryan , Cedillos Roberto , Montero-Fernández Ismael , Fuentes Jhunior Abraham Marcia , Olson Douglas W. , Aryana Kayanush
Published: October 2023

The impact of yogurts made with starter culture bacteria (L. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus) and supplemented with ingredients (maitake mushrooms, quercetin, L-glutamine, slippery elm bark, licorice root, N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, zinc orotate, and marshmallow root) that can help treat leaky gut were investigated using the Caco-2 cell monolayer as a measure of intestinal barrier dysfunction. Milk from the same source was equally dispersed into nine pails, and the eight ingredients were randomly allocated to the eight pails. The control had no ingredients. The Caco-2 cells were treated with isoflavone genistein (negative control) and growth media (positive control). Inflammation was stimulated using an inflammatory cocktail of cytokines (interferon-γ, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-1β) and lipopolysaccharide. The yogurt without ingredients (control yogurt) was compared to the yogurt treatments (yogurts with ingredients) that help treat leaky gut. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and paracellular permeability were measured to evaluate the integrity of the Caco-2 monolayer. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), immunofluorescence microscopy (IM), and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RTQPCR) were applied to measure the integrity of tight junction proteins. The yogurts were subjected to gastric and intestinal digestion, and TEER was recorded. Ferrous ion chelating activity, ferric reducing potential, and DPPH radical scavenging were also examined to determine the yogurts’ antioxidant capacity. Yogurt with quercetin and marshmallow root improved the antioxidant activity and TEER and had the lowest permeability in fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)–dextran and Lucifer yellow flux among the yogurt samples. TEM, IM, and RTQPCR revealed that yogurt enhanced tight junction proteins’ localization and gene expression. Intestinal digestion of the yogurt negatively impacted inflammation-induced Caco-2 barrier dysfunction, while yogurt with quercetin, marshmallow root, maitake mushroom, and licorice root had the highest TEER values compared to the control yogurt. Yogurt fortification with quercetin, marshmallow root, maitake mushroom, and licorice root may improve functionality when dealing with intestinal barrier dysfunction.
DP2, a Carbohydrate Derivative, Enhances In Vitro Osteoblast Mineralisation
Authors: Ballout Nissrine , Boullier Agnès , Darwiche Walaa , Ait-Mohand Katia , Trécherel Eric , Gallégo Théo , Gomila Cathy , Yaker Linda , Gennero Isabelle , Kovensky José , Ausseil Jérôme , Toumieux Sylvestre
Published: October 2023

Bone fracture healing is a complex biological process involving four phases coordinated over time: hematoma formation, granulation tissue formation, bony callus formation, and bone remodelling. Bone fractures represent a significant health problem, particularly among the elderly population and patients with comorbidities. Therapeutic strategies proposed to treat such fractures include the use of autografts, allografts, and tissue engineering strategies. It has been shown that bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) has a therapeutic potential to enhance fracture healing. Despite the clinical efficacy of BMP-2 in osteoinduction and bone repair, adverse side effects and complications have been reported. Therefore, in this in vitro study, we propose the use of a disaccharide compound (DP2) to improve the mineralisation process. We first evaluated the effect of DP2 on primary human osteoblasts (HOb), and then investigated the mechanisms involved. Our findings showed that (i) DP2 improved osteoblast differentiation by inducing alkaline phosphatase activity, osteopontin, and osteocalcin expression; (ii) DP2 induced earlier in vitro mineralisation in HOb cells compared to BMP-2 mainly by earlier activation of Runx2; and (iii) DP2 is internalized in HOb cells and activates the protein kinase C signalling pathway. Consequently, DP2 is a potential therapeutical candidate molecule for bone fracture repair.
Gene and Cellular Therapies for Leukodystrophies
Authors: Aerts-Kaya Fatima , van Til Niek P.
Published: October 2023

Leukodystrophies are a heterogenous group of inherited, degenerative encephalopathies, that if left untreated, are often lethal at an early age. Although some of the leukodystrophies can be treated with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, not all patients have suitable donors, and new treatment strategies, such as gene therapy, are rapidly being developed. Recent developments in the field of gene therapy for severe combined immune deficiencies, Leber’s amaurosis, epidermolysis bullosa, Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy, have paved the way for the treatment of leukodystrophies, revealing some of the pitfalls, but overall showing promising results. Gene therapy offers the possibility for overexpression of secretable enzymes that can be released and through uptake, allow cross-correction of affected cells. Here, we discuss some of the leukodystrophies that have demonstrated strong potential for gene therapy interventions, such as X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), and metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), which have reached clinical application. We further discuss the advantages and disadvantages of ex vivo lentiviral hematopoietic stem cell gene therapy, an approach for targeting microglia-like cells or rendering cross-correction. In addition, we summarize ongoing developments in the field of in vivo administration of recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vectors, which can be used for direct targeting of affected cells, and other recently developed molecular technologies that may be applicable to treating leukodystrophies in the future.
Metal Ion-Induced Formation of Metallogels by Visible-Light-Responsive Phenylalanine-Functionalized Arylazopyrazole Ligands
Authors: Browning Mikayla , Jefferson Alexandra , Geter Jazz , Ghebreyessus Kesete
Published: October 2023

A visible-light-responsive arylazopyrazole-functionalized phenylalanine (4-MeS-AAP-NF) derived ligand was designed and synthesized, and it was found to form metallogels with reversible photo-responsive properties in mixed methanol/water (MeOH/H2O) solvents. The gelation behavior of the 4-MeS-AAP-NF ligand in the presence of different divalent metal ions in mixed methanol/water (MeOH/H2O) solvents at pH~11.60 was studied. It was found that the 4-MeS-AAP-NF ligand alone could not self-assemble to form any gels. However, in the presence of divalent metal ions, it readily formed the assembled metallogels in an alkaline aqueous/methanol solution with various morphologies. The results suggest that the gelation process was triggered by divalent metal ions. The presence of the AAP moiety in the gel matrix rendered the metallogel assemblies photo-responsive, and the reversible gel-to-sol phase transition was studied by UV-vis spectroscopy. The gels showed a slow, reversible visible-light-induced gel-to-sol phase transition under blue (λ = 405 nm) and then sol-to-gel transition by green light (λ = 530 nm) irradiation, resulting in the re-formation of the original gel state. The morphology and viscoelastic properties of the yellow–orange opaque metallogels were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and rheological measurement, respectively.
Optimization Method for Center Frequency Accuracy of High-Channel-Count Arrayed Waveguide Grating in Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing Systems
Authors: Tang Xin , Zheng Yu , Liu Jianzhe , Duan Ji-an
Published: October 2023

The arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) is an essential component in dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) systems. With advancements in optical communication technology, the number of AWG output channels has rapidly increased. However, achieving high center frequency accuracy (CFA) for these channels has become a significant challenge. This paper presents a design and optimization approach for a high-channel-count AWG based on the silica platform and the finite difference beam propagation method (FD-BPM). The causes of center frequency deviation are analyzed, and an optimization method is proposed to adjust the constraint relationship and geometric position of the output waveguides in order to improve CFA. Simulation results demonstrate the excellent optical performance of the designed AWG, achieving a CFA of up to 0.04 times the output channel frequency spacing. The insertion loss, insertion loss uniformity, and adjacent output channel crosstalk are simulated as 1.51 dB, 0.38 dB, and 23.81 dB, respectively. The optimized CFA could compensate for center frequency deviations caused by manufacturing errors and temperature fluctuations. The findings of this research hold potential for extending the optimization to other material platforms and contributing to the development of DWDM systems in the field of optical communication.
Recent Advances in Monocomponent Visible Light Photoinitiating Systems Based on Sulfonium Salts
Authors: Dumur Frédéric
Published: October 2023

During the last decades, multicomponent photoinitiating systems have been the focus of intense research efforts, especially for the design of visible light photoinitiating systems. Although highly reactive three-component and even four-component photoinitiating systems have been designed, the complexity to elaborate such mixtures has incited researchers to design monocomponent Type II photoinitiators. Using this approach, the photosensitizer and the radical/cation generator can be combined within a unique molecule, greatly simplifying the elaboration of the photocurable resins. In this field, sulfonium salts are remarkable photoinitiators but these structures lack absorption in the visible range. Over the years, various structural modifications have been carried out in order to redshift their absorptions in the visible region. In this work, an overview of the different sulfonium salts activable under visible light and reported to date is proposed.
Impact Resistance of 3D-Printed Continuous Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced Composites
Authors: Akmal Zia Ali , Tian Xiaoyong , Jawad Ahmad Muhammad , Tao Zhou , Meng Luo , Zhou Jin , Zhang Daokang , Zhang Wenxin , Qi Jiangwei , Li Dichen
Published: October 2023

Improving the resilience of 3D-printed composites through material extrusion technology (MEX) is an ongoing challenge in order to meet the rigorous requirements of critical applications. The primary objective of this research was to enhance the impact resistance of 3D-printed composites by incorporating continuous hybrid fibers. Herein, continuous virgin carbon (1k) and Kevlar (130D and 200D) fibers were used with different weight and volume fractions as reinforcing fibers to produce hybrid and non-hybrid composites for impact resistance testing to obtain energy absorption with different impact energies: 20 J, 30 J, 40 J, and 50 J. Moreover, 0°/90° fiber orientations were used. Hybrid composites with combinations of PLA + CF + 130D KF and PLA + CF + 200D KF showed higher impact resistance, less damaged areas (71.45% to 90.486%), and higher energy absorption (5.52–11.64% more) behaviors compared to PLA + CF non-hybrids. CT scan images provided strong evidence to resist the fracture and breakage patterns, because the stiffness and elongation properties of the fibers acted together in the hybrids specimens. Furthermore, positive hybrid effects of the PLA + CF + KF hybrids also showed an ideal match of toughness and flexibility in order to resist the impacts. In the future, these hybrids will have the potential to replace the single type of composites in the fields of aerospace and automobiles.
Electromechanical Properties of Silver-Plated Yarns and Their Relation to Yarn Construction Parameters
Authors: Mersch Johannes , Winger Hans , Altinsoy Ercan , Cherif Chokri
Published: October 2023

For signal transmission and sensing in stretchable structures for human motion monitoring or proprioception of soft robots, textiles with electronically conductive yarns are a promising option. Many recent publications employ silver-plated yarns in knits, braids, wovens for strain or pressure sensing purposes as well as heating fabrics or twisted string actuators. Silver-plated yarns are available in a wide range of base materials, yarn counts and twists. These structural properties significantly influence the electrical and electromechanical behavior of such yarns. However, until now little research has been carried out on the yarns themselves. To close this research gap, several variations of a single yarn type are electromechanically characterized. Additionally, tensile tests with synchronous resistance measurements are performed. From these measurements, sensor metrics are derived and calculated to compare the different variants quantitatively.
Water Hyacinth Fiber as a Bio-Based Carbon Source for Intumescent Flame-Retardant Poly (Butylene Succinate) Composites
Authors: Suwanniroj Anothai , Suppakarn Nitinat
Published: October 2023

In this study, flame-retardant poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) composites were developed utilizing a bio-based intumescent flame retardant (IFR) system. Water hyacinth fiber (WHF) was used as a bio-based carbon source, while ammonium polyphosphate (APP) served as both an acid source and a blowing agent. Effects of WHF:APP weight ratio and total IFR content on the thermal stability and flammability of WHF/APP/PBS composites were investigated. The results demonstrated that the 15WHF/30APP/PBS composite with a WHF to APP ratio of 1:2 and a total IFR content of 45 wt% had a maximum limiting oxygen index (LOI) value of 28.8% and acquired good flame retardancy, with a UL-94 V-0 rating without polymer-melt dripping. Additionally, its peak heat release rate (pHRR) and total heat release (THR) were, respectively, 53% and 42% lower than those of the neat PBS. Char residue analysis revealed that the optimal WHF:APP ratio and total IFR content promoted the formation of a high graphitized intumescent char with a continuous and dense structure. In comparison to the neat PBS, the tensile modulus of the 15WHF/30APP/PBS composite increased by 163%. Findings suggested the possibility of employing WHF, a natural fiber, as an alternative carbon source for intumescent flame-retardant PBS composites.
Optimization of the Drawing Process of Low–Middle-Thickness Top Coal Based on a Simulation
Authors: Guo Aijun , Zhang Qunlei , Bai Qingxuan , Sun Hao , Yuan Ruifu , Feng Chun , Wang Shuang , Li Bin
Published: October 2023

Based on a theoretical analysis and simulation, the automated drawing characteristics for low–middle-thickness top coal are investigated, and the drawing process of top coal is optimized. For top coal with a 3 m thickness, a comparison is made between traditional and automated drawing process of top coal, which is used to highlight the superiority of automated drawing process. Then, for the automated top coal drawing, the effects of the round number on the drawing results of the entire working face are investigated, and the advantages and disadvantages of the multi-round drawing process are compared. Finally, the coal drawing results combined with automated and traditional methods are discussed, and an ideal optimized coal drawing process is proposed. The research results indicate that, for top coal with a 3 m thickness, the recovery rate of top coal by automated one-round drawing is slightly higher than that of traditional drawing, the drawing amount and drawing time of various drawing openings are relatively uniform for automated drawing, while the traditional coal drawing process shows fluctuating characteristics. For automated multi-round drawing, the top coal recovery rate decreases with an increase in the round number; however, the rock mixed rate in the drawn top coal is lower, and the drawing results at various drawing openings become more uniform. The combined automated–traditional drawing can achieve layered drawing of the top coal, avoid gangue drawing, and maintain a relatively high recovery rate, which is the optimal drawing process for this research project.
Dependency of Pressure Expression towards Formation Pressures during Drilling Operations in Hydrocarbon Wells and Suitable Choice of Pressure Control Method
Authors: Wittenberger Gabriel , Huszar Tomas , Skvarekova Erika , Cambal Jozef , Bugnova Michaela
Published: October 2023

High pressures during drilling with the aim to obtain hydrocarbon formations (oil and natural gas) can cause an uncontrolled eruption. Therefore, it is necessary to look for warning signs of kicks and control the formation strength. The aim of this article is to show a real process of fracture pressures during a gas kick and their possible solutions. The evaluation of the lithological structure of formations and the correct evaluation of seismic measurements are closely related to the issue of fracture pressures. The contribution also includes software data for detailed analysis and calculations of formations pressures. We point out the incorrect calculation of the geological lithology and employ a casing shoe; it is a risky decision to use a formation integrity test as opposed to a leak of the test. Based on theoretical knowledge, we compared and verified the recalculation of pressure coefficients during the gas kick. In our case, we propose possible solutions for cracking a casing shoe. We point out the importance of correct calculations for a safe and economical purpose. In this post, a theoretical example was shown where the system of casings was correctly designed, and based on this, we obtained ideal values of the fracture pressures. In the end, we proposed an algorithm to simplify work procedures during well control to minimize formation pressures against the deposit and casing shoe.
Regional, Ideological and Inheritable Characteristics of Knowledge: A Survey of Three Compilations of Buddhist Encyclopedias in China from 1950s to 2000s
Authors: Fan Wenli
Published: October 2023

Three official compilations of Buddhist encyclopedias were undertaken in China between the 1950s and 2000s. A sociological examination of these compilations reveals notable characteristics of the Buddhist knowledge system. Firstly, the production of knowledge manifests distinct regional attributes; it is not a process of standardization or objectification, but reflects local idiosyncrasies determined by its place of origination. Secondly, the majority of modern encyclopedia compilations are integral to the construction of national knowledge systems; hence, a nation’s ideological tendencies profoundly influence the articulation of knowledge. Lastly, knowledge is transferred through two mediums: texts and people. Given the immutability of classical knowledge and the consistency of knowledge producers during this period, the results of the three compilations exhibit numerous commonalities.
Comparative Assessment of Spire and COSMIC-2 Radio Occultation Data Quality
Authors: Qiu Cong , Wang Xiaoming , Zhou Kai , Zhang Jinglei , Chen Yufei , Li Haobo , Liu Dingyi , Yuan Hong
Published: October 2023

In this study, we investigate the performances of a commercial Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Radio Occultation (RO) mission and a new-generation RO constellation, i.e., Spire and Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate 2 (COSMIC-2), respectively. In the statistical comparison between Spire and COSMIC-2, the results indicate that although the average signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of Spire is far weaker than that of COSMIC-2, the penetration of Spire is comparable to, and occasionally even better than, that of COSMIC-2. In our analysis, we find that the penetration depth is contingent upon various factors including SNR, GNSS, RO modes, topography, and latitude. With the reanalysis of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts and Radiosonde as the reference data, the identical error characteristics of Spire and COSMIC-2 reveal that overall, the accuracy of Spire’s neutral-atmosphere data products was found to be comparable to that of COSMIC-2.
Operating and Dynamic Capabilities and Their Impact on Operating and Business Performance
Authors: Prester Jasna
Published: October 2023

This work verified, through confirmatory factor analysis, a new measurement model for measuring dynamic capabilities based on current propositions in the literature, using a database of 1008 manufacturing sites from 16 countries. The indirect and direct effects of dynamic capabilities on ordinary capabilities and operating and business performance were also checked. In particular, we tested whether there were any mediating or moderating effects between ordinary and dynamic capabilities on operating and business performance. All the tests were performed through SEM in AMOS and OLS in SPSS. Additionally, a Heckman two-step procedure was performed. The proposed measurement model shows a good fit, meaning that it can be used for further exploring the interplay of ordinary and dynamic capabilities. The mediating and moderating effects of dynamic capabilities measured showed only partial mediation and only low and nonsignificant levels of moderation, meaning that further analysis of their interrelationships on performance should be investigated. Measurement models for dynamic capabilities are especially scarce. Virtually no work deals with dynamic capabilities in the field of operations management; yet it is exactly by means of operations that one can verify the dynamic capabilities being used and what benefits they bring.
Load-Bearing Capacity of an Oxisol under Burned and Mechanized Harvest Sugarcane Crops
Authors: Silva Araújo Fernando , Menezes de Souza Zigomar , Soares Souza Gustavo , Barboza da Silva Reginaldo , Aguilera Esteban Diego Alexander , Moraes Tavares Rose Luiza
Published: October 2023

The change in land use and the expansion of mechanized sugarcane production systems have led to an increase in soil compaction levels. Preconsolidation pressure may be used as a useful measure for soil mechanical state, management, and planning of mechanization systems. This study aimed to assess the soil compressive behavior, soil physical properties, and spatial variability of preconsolidation pressure of an Oxisol in sugarcane fields under burned harvest and mechanized harvest and the effects of land use change. The physical soil attributes (granulometry, soil water content, bulk density, total porosity, and macro and microporosity) and preconsolidation pressure were evaluated at 0.00–0.10-m, 0.10–0.20-m, and 0.20–0.30-m layers. The soil load-bearing capacity models were constructed from σp values for soil water contents. We mapped the assessed soil attributes from crossing points in a sampling mesh with regular 10 m intervals in each area and evaluated them via geostatistics. Land-use change towards sugarcane production systems promoted soil compaction. The mechanized harvesting system increased the soil load-bearing capacity in the water range corresponding to the friability region in subsurface layers. The preconsolidation pressure and soil water content exhibited spatial dependence in the sugarcane areas, regardless of the management system employed in the harvesting operations.
Low-Carbon Economic Operation Optimization of Park-Level Integrated Energy Systems with Flexible Loads and P2G under the Carbon Trading Mechanism
Authors: Sun Hongbin , Sun Xinmei , Kou Lei , Ke Wende
Published: October 2023

Against the background of the “30 × 60” target, low-carbon policies and technologies have become the new starting point and destination of energy conservation and emission reduction in energy systems. Power-to-Gas (P2G), as a new energy conversion mode, provides a new way of consuming energy and reducing carbon emissions. An optimal dispatching model of a park-level integrated energy system considering flexible load and power-to-gas (P2G) participation in the carbon trading market is proposed. Firstly, a comprehensive demand response model for electricity and heat is established according to the system’s flexible load characteristics, adding power-to gas equipment and a combined heat and power (CHP) unit to the system. Secondly, against the background of the carbon trading mechanism and considering the incentive effect of P2G on the carbon trading mechanism, a systematic comprehensive carbon trading cost model is established. Finally, the operation objectives of the low-carbon economy, with minimum energy purchase costs, carbon emission costs, and operating costs, are constructed using a CPLEX commercial solver. The results verify the importance of considering the operational cost of P2G and the feasibility of considering both operating economy and wind power accommodation ability together in integrated energy systems.
Determination of the Social Contribution of Sustainable Asphalt Mixes
Authors: Sierra-Varela Leonardo , Valdes-Vidal Gonzalo , Calabi-Floody Alejandra , Lleuful-Cruz Leonardo , Villegas-Flores Noe , Filun-Santana Álvaro
Published: October 2023

The social contribution that infrastructure components contribute to a territory tends to be underestimated. Indeed, few studies referring to asphalt pavements take social impact into account in their evaluation. This study proposes and evaluates a method to estimate the social contribution of innovative asphalt mixes used in a test section in Chile. For this, a multi-criteria structure, the Delphi method, was used to validate the evaluation structure, and the Bayesian theory and a Noise-OR model to evaluate the social contribution of asphalt mixes. Thus, for the life cycle of extraction, production, and construction, a set of indicators and social criteria determine a cause-effect decision-making model. Six types of asphalt mixes were evaluated: hot mix asphalt (HMA), warm mix asphalt (WMA) with natural zeolite from Chile, WMA with exported chemical additive, and their variants with and without recycled asphalt pavement (RAP). The results demonstrate that the WMAs with RAP achieve a more significant social contribution, emphasizing its contribution to the landscape, development and innovation, socioeconomic development, and health.
Mechanical Weed Control Systems: Methods and Effectiveness
Authors: Zawada Michał , Legutko Stanisław , Gościańska-Łowińska Julia , Szymczyk Sebastian , Nijak Mateusz , Wojciechowski Jacek , Zwierzyński Mikołaj
Published: October 2023

This article presents a division of methods to support mechanical weeding based on mechatronic control systems and estimates their effectiveness. The subject was undertaken due to the noticeable increase in interest in machine weeding methods, which is the result of the need for farmers to meet the growing awareness of customers focusing on healthy and high-quality products and the European Union policy promoting environmental protection programs, such as the European Green Deal and supporting commission priorities like the Mission Soil as a flagship initiative of the long-term vision for the EU’s rural areas. Mechanical weeding meets the stringent conditions set by organic farming, and automation favours the development of these methods. Based on sources in the literature, it has been shown that it is possible to increase the weeding speed by at least 1.6 times by using the tool position correction system for row crops. In the case of crops requiring weeding, and in the spaces between plants in a row, the use of specialised weeding machines allows for an increase in the weeding efficiency by up to 2.57 times compared to manual weeding. Each of the analysed methods used to support weeding are subject to a certain error due to the use of sources in the literature, including manufacturers’ materials; however, it shows an upward trend in the effectiveness of using mechatronic weeding support systems, which was part of the thesis. This article presents the division of these systems and analyses the specific market solutions of machines, which is its distinguishing feature.
The Impact of Customer Incivility and Its Consequences on Hotel Employees: Mediating Role of Employees’ Emotional Exhaustion
Authors: Shahzad Farrukh , Ali Shahab , Hussain Iftikhar , Sun Li , Wang Chunlei , Ahmad Fayyaz
Published: October 2023

Employees’ negative outcomes have continued to be the logical position emphasized by service-oriented organizations that ‘the customer is always right’ and organizational policies that require employees to make customers happy, even in situations involving a customer’s uncivil behavior. The current study builds and evaluates a research model that analyzes the associations among customer incivility, employees’ emotional exhaustion, employees’ intentions to quit the workplace, and employees’ satisfaction at the workplace using the conservation of resources theory. Employees from four- and five-star hotels in Pakistan. The data shows that customers’ incivility boosts employees’ emotional exhaustion and employees’ intentions to quit the workplace, but intentions have no effect on employees’ satisfaction at the workplace when using structural equation modeling. The results show that employees’ emotional exhaustion slightly mediates customers’ incivility influence on employees’ intentions to quit the workplace while totally mediating customers’ incivility effect on employees’ satisfaction at the workplace. The findings’ implications, limitations, and future directions are examined.
Research on Psychological Crisis Intervention Strategies under Emergencies: An Analysis Based on the Four-Party Evolutionary Game
Authors: Chen Lei , Li Hongxia , Tian Fangyuan , Xie Can , Zhao Lin
Published: October 2023

The study of multi-subject psychological crisis intervention under emergencies is of great significance for maintaining the psychological states of public groups. A government’s strict regulation can stimulate social responsibility in medical institutions and communities, increase the probability that positive behavioral strategies might be chosen, and accelerate the implementation of psychological crisis intervention. In this paper, we constructed a four-party dynamic evolutionary game model containing the government, medical institutions, communities, and the public; analyzed the asymptotic stability conditions of the behavioral strategies of each player in the game; and explored the impact of the changes of the relevant key parameters in the model on the strategic choices of the players via use of Matlab 2020a simulation. The results of the study show that there are complex interactions and competitive relationships between the subjects of the game in emergencies, and that different intervention strategies can have different impacts on the behavior and outcomes of the subjects. The accountability of superiors increases the probability that there will be strict government regulation and enhances the robustness of medical institutions and communities to choose positive behaviors. A government’s decision to increase incentives and penalties may urge healthcare providers to provide active treatment and the community to provide safety and security, while also reducing the cost of public participation in supervision and reducing resource waste. By analyzing strategic choices made by subjects under a four-party game, a perfect countermeasure can be formulated to help the public form a positive psychological coping mechanism in the event of emergencies, and to provide support and help for their peers. Thus, the psychological health of the group can be better maintained, and extreme negative emotions and behaviors can be avoided. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate the rationality of the research conclusions and provide reference suggestions by which to improve the psychological crisis intervention system.
Bioactive Compounds of Jambu (Acmella oleracea (L.) R. K. Jansen) as Potential Components of Biodegradable Food Packing: A Review
Authors: Moura Jardilene da Silva , Gemaque Eveline de Matos , Bahule Celina Eugenio , Martins Luiza Helena da Silva , Chisté Renan Campos , Lopes Alessandra Santos
Published: October 2023

The production of biodegradable food packaging with innovative characteristics is a current challenge that contributes to sustainable development and guarantees greater consumer safety. Thus, this review reports the general characteristics of jambu, highlighting the nutritional and medicinal importance, the rich composition of bioactive compounds and, mainly, the advances in the application of the plant as a multifunctional material for food packaging. The possibility of using jambu in active and “intelligent” films was identified. The addition of bioactive compounds to films can influence the physical, biochemical and sensory properties of foods, increasing the shelf life of packaged products, in addition to adding more economic value to the plant. According to the knowledge obtained by the authors of this review, information about the potential application of bioactive compounds from jambu in the development of films for biodegradable packaging will be presented for the first time in this review. Therefore, this study will provide researchers, food scientists and academics with a more comprehensive understanding of sustainable food packaging, with a focus on active and “intelligent” properties, contributing to the development of future research.
Economic Sustainability of the Milk and Dairy Supply Chain: Evidence from Serbia
Authors: Milić Dragan , Novaković Tihomir , Tekić Dragana , Matkovski Bojan , Đokić Danilo , Zekić Stanislav
Published: October 2023

The sector of milk and dairy products in Serbia along the entire supply chain has been under significant challenges in recent years, especially in current crises. In this direction, this research looked at the supply chain of milk and dairy products by analyzing the primary production, the situation in the processing industry, and the international market’s competitiveness. Indicators of technical efficiency were used to analyze the situation on agricultural farms, while for the processing industry, the impact of various variables on profitability was evaluated using panel models. Furthermore, an examination of these products’ standings in the global market was conducted by assessing their revealed comparative advantages and integration index. The results of the research determined the level of technical efficiency of the producer, while the statistically significant influence of certain variables on profitability was determined within the processing industry. Additionally, the analysis showed modestly revealed comparative advantages in the international market but good integration with the international market. Finally, the sustainability of the milk and dairy products supply chain is highly questionable in crises, which will be a challenge for producers and policymakers.
Review of Flavor Anomalies
Authors: Bahinipati Seema
Published: October 2023

Lepton flavor universality exists in the Standard Model, and hence any observation of the violation of this universality will be a hint for new physics. Recent experimental searches for processes violating this symmetry have attracted much attention among theorists and experimentalists alike. In recent years, such hints have been observed in flavor changing neutral current weak processes such as b→sll and charged current weak processes such as b→clν processes by collider experiments like Belle, Belle II, BaBar, LHCb, ATLAS, and CMS collaborations, where b,s,c are the bottom, strange, and charm quarks, respectively, and l,ν stand for lepton and the corresponding lepton neutrino, respectively. This article is a review of some of the interesting anomalies observed in the B-sector and includes decays of Bs mesons.
Neutrino Oscillations in Finite Time Path Out-of-Equilibrium Thermal Field Theory
Authors: Dadić Ivan , Klabučar Dubravko
Published: October 2023

We demonstrate that the Finite-Time-Path Field Theory is an adequate tool for calculating neutrino oscillations. We apply this theory using a mass-mixing Lagrangian which involves the correct Dirac spin and chirality structure and a Pontecorvo–Maki–Nakagawa–Sakata (PMNS)-like mixing matrix. The model is exactly solvable. The Dyson–Schwinger equations transform propagators of the input free (massless) flavor neutrinos into a linear combination of oscillating (massive) neutrinos. The results are consistent with the predictions of the PMNS matrix while allowing for extrapolation to early times.
Correction: Sarry et al. Host-Specific Interplay between Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus 3D Polymerase and the Type-I Interferon Pathway. Viruses 2023, 15, 666
Authors: Sarry Morgan , Caignard Grégory , Dupré Juliette , Zientara Stephan , Vitour Damien , Bakkali Kassimi Labib , Blaise-Boisseau Sandra
Published: October 2023

In the original publication [...]
Evaluation of a Manual Cytocentrifuge versus the Standard Automated Cytocentrifuge in the Analysis of Canine Cerebrospinal Fluid: A Case Series of 55 Dogs
Authors: Fonte-Oliveira Luísa , Pereira André , Gregório Hugo , Ribeiro João , Correia-Gomes Carla , Marcos Ricardo , Santos Marta
Published: October 2023

Cytospins are important for evaluating fluids with very low cellularity such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The aim of this study was to compare the CSF cytospin preparations obtained from automated and manual cytocentrifugation methods. A prospective case series was performed to analyze canine CSF samples using both centrifugation methods. The cytospins were processed within 30–60 min and prepared simultaneously in a conventional automated cytocentrifuge and in an in-house manual cytocentrifuge, using a fixed volume of CSF fluid. The cellularity, differential cell count and the proportion of cell artifacts (pseudopods and vacuolization) were blindly assessed in the cytospin preparations obtained using the two methods. The agreement and correlation between both methods were analyzed. There were 55 dogs enrolled (48 prospectively and 7 retrospectively) in the study. 38 dogs had normal total nucleated cell counts, while 17 had pleocytosis. Automated and manual cytocentrifugation had similar cell yields, and no significant differences in differential cell counts or the presence of artifacts existed between both methods. In cases with pleocytosis, the cytologic diagnosis obtained using each method was similar. Manual cytocentrifugation of CSF is a reliable and economic method designed for routine clinical practice. Its use reduces the specimen deterioration related to processing and analysis delays when samples are transported to external laboratories for evaluation.