bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Traffic Signal Control Using Priority Metric Based on Real-Time Measured Traffic Information
Authors: Kim Minjung , Schrader Max , Yoon Hwan-Sik , Bittle Joshua A.
Published: May 2023

Optimizing traffic control systems at traffic intersections can reduce network-wide fuel consumption as well as improve traffic flow. While traffic signals have conventionally been controlled based on predetermined schedules, various adaptive control systems have been developed recently using advanced sensors such as cameras, radars, and LiDARs. By utilizing rich traffic information enabled by the advanced sensors, more efficient or optimal traffic signal control is possible in response to varying traffic conditions. This paper proposes an optimal traffic signal control method to minimize network-wide fuel consumption utilizing real-time traffic information provided by advanced sensors. This new method employs a priority metric calculated by a weighted sum of various factors, including the total number of vehicles, total vehicle speed, vehicle waiting time, and road preference. Genetic Algorithm (GA) is used as a global optimization method to determine the optimal weights in the priority metric. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method, a traffic simulation model is developed in a high-fidelity traffic simulation environment called SUMO, based on a real-world traffic network. The traffic flow within this model is simulated using actual measured traffic data from the traffic network, enabling a comprehensive assessment of the novel optimal traffic signal control method in realistic conditions. The simulation results show that the proposed priority metric-based real-time traffic signal control algorithm can significantly reduce network-wide fuel consumption compared to the conventional fixed-time control and coordinated actuated control methods that are currently used in the modeled network. Additionally, incorporating truck priority in the priority metric leads to further improvements in fuel consumption reduction.
Effect of Different Preparation Parameters on the Stability and Thermal Conductivity of MWCNT-Based Nanofluid Used for Photovoltaic/Thermal Cooling
Authors: Chaichan Miqdam T. , Kazem Hussein A. , Al-Ghezi Moafaq K. S. , Al-Waeli Ali H. A. , Ali Ali J. , Sopian Kamaruzzaman , Kadhum Abdul Amir H. , Isahak Wan Nor Roslam Wan , Takriff Mohd S. , Al-Amiery Ahmed A.
Published: May 2023

The thermal conductivity and stability of any nanofluid are essential thermophysical properties. These properties are affected by many parameters, such as the nanoparticles, the base fluid, the surfactant, and the sonication time used for mixing. In this study, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were selected as additive particles, and the remaining variables were tested to reach the most suitable nanofluid that can be used to cool photovoltaic/thermal (PVT) systems operating in the harsh summer conditions of the city of Baghdad. Among the tested base fluids, water was chosen, although ethylene glycol (EG), propylene glycol (PG), and heat transfer oil (HTO) were available. The novelty of the current study contains the optimization of nanofluid preparation time to improve MWCNTs’ PVT performance with different surfactants (CTAB, SDS, and SDBS) and base fluids (water, EG, PG, and oil). When 1% MWCNT mass fraction was added, the thermal conductivity (TC) of all tested fluids increased, and the water + nano-MWCNT advanced all TC (EG, PG, and oil) by 119.5%, 308%, and 210%, respectively. The aqueous nanofluids’ stability also exceeded the EG, PG, and oil at the mass fraction of 0.5% MWCNTs by 11.6%, 20.3%, and 16.66%, respectively. A nanofluid consisting of 0.5% MWCNTs, water (base fluid), and CTAB (surfactant) was selected with a sonication time of three and quarter hours, considering that these preparation conditions were practically the best. This fluid was circulated in an installed outdoor, weather-exposed PVT system. Experiments were carried out in the harsh weather conditions of Baghdad, Iraq, to test the effectiveness of the PVT system and the nanofluid. The nanofluid-cooled system achieved an electrical efficiency increase of 88.85% and 44% compared to standalone PV and water-cooled PVT systems, respectively. Additionally, its thermal efficiency was about 20% higher than that of a water-cooled PVT system. With the effect of the high temperature of the PV panel (at noon), the electrical efficiency of the systems was decreased, and the least affected was the nanofluid-cooled PVT system. The thermal efficiency of the nanofluid-cooled PVT system was also increased under these conditions. This success confirms that the prepared nanofluid cooling of the PVT system approach can be used in the severe weather of the city of Baghdad.
Energy Policy as a Socio-Scientific Issue: Argumentation in the Context of Economic, Environmental and Citizenship Education
Authors: Shasha-Sharf Hagit , Tal Tali
Published: May 2023

One goal of environmental civic education is preparing students, both as citizens and as professionals, to use effective arguments in public debates. Such debates include dominantly economic claims, which are multifaceted and rarely taught in schools. A learning unit that applied the pedagogical principles of socio-scientific issues was developed for ‘Israel’s Natural Gas Export Policy’, a real sustainability dilemma. The study aimed to understand how pre- and in-service science teachers craft their arguments, by comparing their written reasoned opinions on the gas export debate, before and after the learning unit. Content analysis was conducted using Grounded Theory on the two groups’ texts in a multiple case study design. Five reasoning rationales were found: ‘Profits and Risks’, ‘Ethics or Ideology’, ‘Pragmatic Objectives’, ‘Evidence Base’ and ‘Stakeholder Motivations’. Each rationale yielded different reasoning strategies, including ‘Costs/Benefits’, ‘the Trade-Off Dilemma’ or ‘Compromise’, ‘Compensatory Benefits’ and ‘Non-Compensatory Costs/Risks’. The findings show that both groups used more argument types in the post-task. The development of ‘Profits and Risks’ strategies, between the pre- and post-texts, shows how the teachers’ arguments became more complex and decisive. These results exemplify how the SSI-focused learning unit enables learners to enhance their critical citizenship thinking, one of the cornerstones of democracy.
Utilization of Synthetic Steel Gases in an Additively Manufactured Reactor for Catalytic Methanation
Authors: Hauser Alexander , Feldner Alexander , Treiber Peter , Grimm Fabian , Karl Jürgen
Published: May 2023

The path to European climate neutrality by 2050 will require comprehensive changes in all areas of life. For large industries such as steelworks, this results in the need for climate-friendly technologies. However, the age structure of existing steelworks makes transitional solutions such as carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) necessary as short-term measures. Hence, a purposeful option is the integration of technical syntheses such as methanation into the overall process. This work summarizes hydrogen-intensified methanation experiments with synthetic steel gases in the novel additively manufactured reactor ‘ADDmeth1’. The studies include steady-state operating points at various reactor loads. Blast furnace gas (BFG), basic oxygen furnace gas (BOFG) and three mixtures of these two gases serve as carbon sources. The methanation achieved methane yields of 93.5% for BFG and 95.0% for BOFG in the one-stage once-through setup. The results suggest a kinetic limitation in the case of BFG methanation, while an equilibrium limitation is likely for BOFG. There is a smooth transition in all respects between the two extreme cases. The reaction channel inlet temperature ϑin showed a large influence on the reactor ignition behavior. By falling below the threshold value, a blow-off occurred during experimental operation. By means of a simulation model, practical operating maps were created which characterize permissible operating ranges for ϑin as a function of the gas composition and the reactor load.
Low-Carbon-Driven Product Life-Cycle Process Optimization Framework for Manufacturing Equipment
Authors: Lu Qi , Zhang Qi , Zhou Guanghui
Published: May 2023

Because of the increasing concern regarding environmental sustainability, manufacturing equipment faces a challenge to optimize carbon emissions from a life-cycle perspective. Current approaches lack the overall low-carbon optimization flow guidance needed in order to take effective measures for manufacturing equipment. Consequently, this paper proposes a framework of low-carbon optimization for manufacturing equipment. Firstly, a four-layer framework for low-carbon optimization processes is established, consisting of the optimization operation layer, life-cycle layer, optimization method layer, and tools and data layer. Then, the characteristics, functions, and technologies involved in the four layers are elaborated on in detail. Finally, the honing machine considering the reduction of carbon emissions is given as an example. The results indicate that by using the proposed methodology effectively, the carbon emissions of the lower column, a key part of the honing machine, can be reduced by 4.38% without sacrificing structure performance. The framework can provide specific guidance on achieving a low-carbon optimization process and contribute to the sustainable development of energy-intensive manufacturing industries.
Creative Economy and Sustainable Regional Growth: Lessons from the Implementation of Entrepreneurial Discovery Process at the Regional Level
Authors: Manioudis Manolis , Angelakis Antonios
Published: May 2023

The creative economy sector is tightly associated with sustainable development and Sustainable Economic Goals (SDGs). The creative industries contribute to sustainability in a variety of ways. They are essential in accelerating sustainable consumption and production patterns and promoting regional sustainable development. This paper attempts to stress the role of the creative economy in promoting sustainable regional growth by focusing on smart specialization priority areas in the region of Attica. The latter has been accomplished by presenting the current regional policy model and the entrepreneurial discovery process (EDP) methodology in the region of Attica. This paper concludes that the EDP paves the way for the formulation of policy lessons enhancing the link between the creative economy and sustainable regional growth. In a nutshell, three major conclusions derived from the present paper include the following aspects: (i) the formulation of an integrated smart specialisation strategy requires an ongoing and well-structured process along the policy cycle (structured life-cycle approach); (ii) the deployment of a robust innovation ecosystem requires a comprehensive approach of engaging and mobilising regional actors and identifying their needs and priorities; (iii) the lessons observed through the exploration of the case study lead to concrete findings regarding the critical importance of long-term interactive institutional learning and policy co-design as a precondition for an effective regional ecosystem.
The Fractal Approach in the Biomimetic Urban Design: Le Corbusier and Patrick Schumacher
Authors: Gertik Ayse , Karaman Aykut
Published: May 2023

Biomimetic design process approaches have been emphasized systematically as a result of works among disciplines of current technology and biological science. In order to find solutions for a decrease in biodiversity, pollution, and issues of the ecosystem, the nature experience shows itself in areas of biomimetic products, architecture, and urban designs in which nature-focused invasions are basically being imitated. Nature-focused designs have set their own framework by examining forms of different nature dynamics (scale, function, formation process) by presenting a sustainable environment. It can be seen that designs are made real by adhering to the resolution of forms, understanding, and interpretation of nature and by embracing fractal designs with the effort of creating a sustainable environment. In this study, emphasis was placed on revealed nature-based design approaches. The article addresses biomimetic design processes, reveals the role of fractal parameters in the design process, and examines the use of biomimetic approaches. By drawing attention to the importance of studying and understanding these internal dynamics, the contribution of natural inspiration and fractal concepts to the design process is examined. We examine research related to the concept of biomimetics, creation/development of conceptual proposals, and analysis of the established theoretical proposal through selected urban design examples in order to determine the respective overlaps between these areas. Our study takes the form of an analysis of the formal organization of living things together with a formal analysis focusing on the design principles. We try to analyze the design principles and the changes in the principles, and discuss the resulting data within the framework of these concepts. The urban designs of Le Corbusier and Patrick Schumacher, who are important names of the 20th century, were examined in line with the findings obtained in terms of biomimesis levels, namely, the organism level, behavior level, ecosystem level, and functional level. Comparisons of urban design approaches are made using the meta-analysis method with respect to findings obtained as a result of an examination of the golden ratio, modular system, fractal, and parameter concepts of urban design. For this reason, when the fractal concept, which is one of the dynamics of biomimetic-oriented nature, is handled with biomimetic levels and its contribution to the design processes is investigated, we are able to determine that it has important parameters in terms of sustainability. This study aims to contribute to the field of industrial products and urban design disciplines in architectural design.
Green Efficiency Measurement of Seaweed Culture in China under the Double Carbon Target
Authors: Le Jiahua , Wei Ying
Published: May 2023

Seaweed culture is of great significance in giving full play to the function of marine carbon sequestration and strengthening the protection and repair of the marine ecosystem. Its green efficiency measurement can provide China with a means for a global low-carbon economy. From the ecological perspective of net carbon sink, this paper selects three indexes: input, expected output and unexpected output. The total carbon sink and carbon emissions are included in the evaluation index system of green efficiency of seaweed culture in China. The green efficiency of seaweed culture in China from 2008 to 2020 is calculated by the super-SBM model. Through the redundancy rate of input and output, the influencing factors of net carbon sink output of seaweed culture are put forward. According to the empirical calculation results and influencing factors of green efficiency, the countermeasures and suggestions for green seaweed culture in China under the dual-carbon target are put forward. The results showed that: (1) the net carbon sink and green efficiency level of seaweed culture in China showed an overall growth trend, and there was a lot of room for growth in economic and ecological benefits; (2) influenced by index factors and non-index factors such as marine resource economy and planning, there are differences in seaweed culture and green efficiency in the three major sea areas of China; (3) the indexes of green efficiency of seaweed culture in different study areas are different; and (4) the improvement of green efficiency can promote the Chinese seaweed culture industry. Green technology progress effect, structure effect, and input–output scale effect are the main influencing mechanisms of green efficiency of seaweed culture. It is suggested that in the future, we should optimize the structure of seaweed culture, innovate seaweed culture technology, improve carbon sink trading policy and strengthen the training of carbon sink talents. This will accelerate the realization of the goal of green and double carbon seaweed culture and promote the global low-carbon economy.
CSR Perceptions and Brand Attitudes in Chinese Luxury Hospitality: The Moderating Effect of Ads vs. Media Reports
Authors: Hu Jiaen , López-Bonilla Luis Miguel , López-Bonilla Jesús Manuel
Published: May 2023

The fit between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and luxury is a debated topic and there is limited understanding regarding how the CSR initiatives of a luxury hotel are differently perceived and responded to by customers. The present study analysed the fit between CSR and luxury in China’s luxury hospitality industry by investigating customers’ CSR perceptions as well as their brand attitudes. According to the attribution of CSR motives, this study classified consumers’ four CSR perceptions, including CSR washing, corporate hypocrisy, corporate citizenship, and shared value creation. An experimental study was implemented with 400 luxury customers. It was found that when the CSR information of a hotel was disclosed by advertisements, participants reported stronger perceptions of CSR washing and corporate hypocrisy as well as weaker perceptions of corporate citizenship and shared value creation than when the CSR information was disclosed by media reports. Different CSR perceptions were found to differently influence customers’ brand attitudes. Their brand attitudes were positively influenced by the perceptions of corporate citizenship and shared value creation and were negatively influenced by the perceptions of CSR washing and corporate hypocrisy. In view of this, the present study argued that the fit between CSR and luxury in the hospitality industry is associated with whether consumers perceive CSR initiatives positively or negatively.
Study on Structural Properties of Brain Networks Based on Independent Set Indices
Authors: Puthanpurakkal Anagha , Ramachandran Selvakumar
Published: May 2023

Studies of brain network organisation have swiftly adopted graph theory-based quantitative analysis of complicated networks. Small-world topology, densely connected hubs, and modularity characterise the brain’s structural and functional systems. Many measures quantify graph topology. It has not yet been determined which measurements are most appropriate for brain network analysis. This work introduces a new parameter applicable to brain network analysis. This parameter may help in the identification of symmetry and the study of symmetry breakdown in the brain. This is important because decreased symmetry in the brain is associated with a decreased chance of developing neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. This work is to study brain networks using maximal independent set-based topological indices. These indices seem to depict significant properties of brain networks, such as clustering, small-worldness, etc. One new parameter introduced in this paper for brain network analysis depends on Zagreb topological indices and independence degree. This parameter is useful for analyzing clusters, rich clubs, small-worldness, and connectivity in modules.
Anomalous Small-Angle X-ray Scattering and Its Application in the Dynamic Reconstruction of Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Catalysts
Authors: Cheng Weidong , Chen Zhongjun , Wu Xuehui , Wu Zhaojun , Wang Xin , Zhao Mengyuan , Liu Huanyan , Jia Hongge , Wang Chaohui , Wang Xuefeng , Wu Zhonghua , Xing Xueqing
Published: May 2023

The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is a promising approach for mitigating the greenhouse effect arising from anthropogenic CO2 emission. Nonetheless, poor product selectivity associated with electrochemical catalysts is the main technical problem for the application of CO2RR technology. The catalytic performance of nano-catalysts is strongly dependent on their microstructural features. Anomalous small-angle X-ray scattering (ASAXS) is one of the most effective techniques for studying nanostructural change in an operando way, especially for complex systems and mixed-element catalyst situations. Furthermore, based on the research results of ASAXS, appropriate catalyst components and nanostructures can be designed to achieve stable catalytic performance of the catalyst, promote catalytic reaction rate, or improve catalytic reaction selectivity. In this paper, the basic concept, principle, and applications in different systems of ASAXS are reviewed thoroughly. Finally, the development prospect of ASAXS in the field of electrocatalysis is prospected. It is hoped that this review will further promote ASAXS technology to play a more far-reaching impact in the field of electrocatalytic CO2RR.
New Study on the Quantum Midpoint-Type Inequalities for Twice q-Differentiable Functions via the Jensen–Mercer Inequality
Authors: Butt Saad Ihsan , Umar Muhammad , Budak Hüseyin
Published: May 2023

The objective of this study is to identify novel quantum midpoint-type inequalities for twice q-differentiable functions by utilizing Mercer’s approach. We introduce a new auxiliary variant of the quantum Mercer midpoint-type identity related to twice q-differentiable functions. By applying the theory of convex functions to this identity, we introduce new bounds using well-known inequalities, such as H"older’s inequality and power-mean inequality. We provide explicit examples along with graphical demonstrations. The findings of this study explain previous studies on midpoint-type inequalities. Analytic inequalities of this type, as well as related strategies, have applications in various fields where symmetry plays an important role.
Transitioning to a New Space Age in the 21st Century: A Systemic-Level Approach
Authors: Del Canto Viterale Francisco
Published: May 2023

Since the first launch of an artificial satellite—Sputnik 1—in 1957, space activities have played a significant role as a pioneering technological sector with a high impact on the international scenario. The space system has changed rapidly in the last 30 years, as a result of an intersystemic transition from a bipolar and simplified space system in the 20th century to a new and more complex space system in the 21st century. The post-Cold War space system has undergone multiple changes in its key system parameters—actors, interactions, processes, trends, etc.—that require new scientific approaches. Currently, there is extensive literature that attempts to address these changes, but it is an atomized and fragmented approach that focuses only on particular aspects of space activities, failing to provide a holistic perspective of the systemic changes. This article is analytical and is concerned with how space activities can be empirically examined using a systemic-level approach and systems models, and how the fundaments of systems science are a valuable methodological toolkit to be applied to the field of space studies. Therefore, the main objective of this research is to apply a systems architecture model—previously developed for the author—to the study of the key characteristics of the 21st century space age. The result is a systemic-level study of the new space age in the 21st century, which identifies and describes the intersystemic transition from the Cold War (1947–1991) to the post-Cold War period (1991 to the present), showing the profound changes in the main parameters of the space system and the emergence of new space actors, interactions, processes, and megatrends in space that have a significant impact on the entire world system.
Path Optimization of Technological Innovation Efficiency Improvement in China’s High-Tech Industries Based on QCA and GA-PSO-BP Neural Network
Authors: Kou Yuanyuan , Chen Huiying , Liu Kai , Zhou Yanping , Xu Huajie
Published: May 2023

Innovation is the main driving force to promote national technological progress. It is of great significance to explore the optimal path to improve innovation efficiency by using the qualitative method and neural network prediction model to promote the high-quality development of the national economy. This study focuses on high-tech industries in the eastern, central and western regions of China; a factor-dependent research framework for innovation efficiency improvement in high-tech industries is constructed in China. The fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis method (QCA) is used to explore multiple paths to enhance the innovation efficiency of China’s high-tech industries. Then, a GA-PSO-BP neural network is used to construct an optimization model for the enhancement path of technological innovation efficiency, which clarifies the optimal path for the enhancement of innovation efficiency of high-tech industries in the eastern, central and western regions of China. Finally, innovation management strategies for high-tech industries are presented with regional features. The study finds that none of the individual conditions are necessary to promote the innovation efficiency of China’s high-tech industries, and only the linkage effect of the factors can achieve the goal of improving the innovation efficiency level of China’s high-tech industries. There are four configuration paths to improve the innovation efficiency of China’s high-tech industries, which are: “Multinational company (MNC) innovation—economic development—government support”; “MNC innovation—government support”; “economic development—government support”; and “economic development”. The characteristics of regional heterogeneity make differences in the optimal paths of innovation efficiency improvement in high-tech industries in eastern, central and western regions of China.
Distribution of Micro-Nano PS, DEHP, and/or MEHP in Mice and Nerve Cell Models In Vitro after Exposure to Micro-Nano PS and DEHP
Authors: Han Jie , Yan Jun , Li Kang , Lin Bencheng , Lai Wenqing , Bian Liping , Jia Rui , Liu Xiaohua , Xi Zhuge
Published: May 2023

Polystyrene (PS) and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exist widely in the environment. However, their distribution in organisms remains unclear. We used three sizes (50 nm, 500 nm, and 5 μm) of PS and DEHP to study the distribution and accumulation of PS, DEHP, and mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) in mice and nerve cell models (HT22 and BV2 cells) and their potential toxicity. Results showed that PS entered the blood of mice, and the distribution of different particle sizes in different tissues was different. After the combined exposure to PS and DEHP, PS carried DEHP, which significantly increased the DEHP content and MEHP content and the highest content of MEHP was in the brain. With the decrease in PS particle size, the contents of PS, DEHP, and MEHP in the body increased. The levels of inflammatory factors were increased in the serum of the PS or/and DEHP group. In addition, 50 nm polystyrene can carry MEHP into nerve cells. These results suggest for the first time that PS and DEHP combined exposure can induce systemic inflammation, and the brain is an important target organ of PS and DEHP combined exposure. This study may serve as a reference for further evaluation of the neurotoxicity induced by combined exposure to PS and DEHP.
Correction: Degen et al. Citrinin Exposure in Germany: Urine Biomarker Analysis in Children and Adults. Toxins 2023, 15, 26
Authors: Degen Gisela H. , Reinders Jörg , Kraft Martin , Völkel Wolfgang , Gerull Felicia , Burghardt Rafael , Sievering Silvia , Engelmann Jennifer , Chovolou Yvonni , Hengstler Jan G. , Fromme Hermann
Published: May 2023

In the original publication [...]
Temporal Exposure to Bt Insecticide Causes Oxidative Stress in Larval Midgut Tissue
Authors: Muita Biko K. , Baxter Simon W.
Published: May 2023

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) three-domain Cry toxins are highly successful biological pesticides; however, the mechanism through which they cause death to targeted larval midgut cells is not fully understood. Herein, we challenged transgenic Bt-susceptible Drosophila melanogaster larvae with moderate doses of activated Cry1Ac toxin and assessed the midgut tissues after one, three, and five hours using transmission electron microscopy and transcriptome sequencing. Larvae treated with Cry1Ac showed dramatic changes to their midgut morphology, including shortened microvilli, enlarged vacuoles, thickened peritrophic membranes, and swelling of the basal labyrinth, suggesting water influx. Transcriptome analysis showed that innate immune responses were repressed, genes involved with cell death pathways were largely unchanged, and mitochondria-related genes were strongly upregulated following toxin exposure. Defective mitochondria produced after toxin exposure were likely to contribute to significant levels of oxidative stress, which represent a common physiological response to a range of toxic chemicals. Significant reductions in both mitochondrial aconitase activity and ATP levels in the midgut tissue supported a rapid increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) following exposure to Cry1Ac. Overall, these findings support the role of water influx, midgut cell swelling, and ROS activity in response to moderate concentrations of Cry1Ac.
Effect of Health Education on Schistosomiasis Control Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice after Schistosomiasis Blocking: Results of a Longitudinal Observational Study in the Field
Authors: Feng Jiaxin , Wang Xinyi , Zhang Xia , Hu Hehua , Xue Jingbo , Cao Chunli , Xu Jing , Yang Pin , Li Shizhu
Published: May 2023

Objectives: Schistosomiasis is a zoonotic infectious disease that seriously harms people’s physical and mental health. As early as 1985, the WHO suggested that health education and health promotion should be the focus of schistosomiasis prevention work. This study aimed to explore the effect of health education on controlling the risk of schistosomiasis transmission after schistosomiasis blocking and to provide a scientific basis for the further improvement of intervention strategies after schistosomiasis interruption in China and other endemic countries. Methods: In Jiangling County, Hubei Province, China, one severe, one moderate, and one mildly endemic village were selected as the intervention group; two severe, two moderate, and two mildly endemic villages were selected as the control group. In towns with different epidemic types, a primary school was randomly selected for intervention. In September 2020, a baseline survey was carried out through a questionnaire survey to understand the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of adults and students concerning schistosomiasis control. Next, two rounds of health education interventions for schistosomiasis control were carried out. The evaluation survey was conducted in September 2021 and the follow-up survey conducted in September 2022. Results: Compared with the baseline survey, the qualified rate of the KAP on schistosomiasis prevention of the control group in the follow-up survey increased from 79.1% (584/738) to 81.0% (493/609) (p > 0.05); in the intervention group, the qualified rate of the KAP on schistosomiasis control increased from 74.9% (286/382) to 88.1% (260/295) (p < 0.001). In the baseline survey, the qualified rate of the KAP of the intervention group was lower than that of the control group, and in the follow-up survey, the qualified rate of the KAP of the intervention group was 7.2% higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05). Compared with the baseline survey, the accuracy rates of the KAP of the intervention group’s adults were higher than those of the control group, with statistical significance (p < 0.001). Compared with the baseline survey, the qualified rate of the students’ KAP in the follow-up survey increased from 83.8% (253/302) to 97.8% (304/311) (p < 0.001). In the follow-up survey, the accuracy rate of the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the students was significantly different from the baseline accuracy (p < 0.001). Conclusion: a health education-led risk control model of schistosomiasis can significantly improve schistosomiasis control knowledge among adults and students, establishing correct attitudes and leading to the development of correct hygiene habits.
Development of a Multi-Epitope Universal mRNA Vaccine Candidate for Monkeypox, Smallpox, and Vaccinia Viruses: Design and In Silico Analyses
Authors: Rcheulishvili Nino , Mao Jiawei , Papukashvili Dimitri , Feng Shunping , Liu Cong , Yang Xidan , Lin Jihui , He Yunjiao , Wang Peng George
Published: May 2023

Notwithstanding the presence of a smallpox vaccine that is effective against monkeypox (mpox), developing a universal vaccine candidate against monkeypox virus (MPXV) is highly required as the mpox multi-country outbreak has increased global concern. MPXV, along with variola virus (VARV) and vaccinia virus (VACV), belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus. Due to the genetic similarity of antigens in this study, we have designed a potentially universal mRNA vaccine based on conserved epitopes that are specific to these three viruses. In order to design a potentially universal mRNA vaccine, antigens A29, A30, A35, B6, and M1 were selected. The conserved sequences among the three viral species—MPXV, VACV, and VARV—were detected, and B and T cell epitopes containing the conserved elements were used for the design of the multi-epitope mRNA construct. Immunoinformatics analyses demonstrated the stability of the vaccine construct and optimal binding to MHC molecules. Humoral and cellular immune responses were induced by immune simulation analyses. Eventually, based on in silico analysis, the universal mRNA multi-epitope vaccine candidate designed in this study may have a potential protection against MPXV, VARV, and VACV that will contribute to the advancement of prevention strategies for unpredictable pandemics.
Use of Level-of-Service-Based Water Pricing to Sustain Irrigated Agriculture: A Case of Modernized Irrigation System in Vietnam
Authors: Toan Truong Duc , Tu Bui Anh
Published: May 2023

Water is an important input for irrigated agriculture. However, the irrigation sector, especially in developing countries, often faces pressure to secure water for production activities and maintain irrigation services. To sustain the supply and delivery of water in irrigation, not only should efficient use of water resources be promoted, but the balance between the cost and revenue from water supply must be sustained. In most cases, the appropriate setting and application of water pricing is crucial to achieving these objectives. In this paper, the use of level-of-service-based water pricing is described and illustrated with a case of a modernized irrigation system in a central highland province of Vietnam. The results from this study show that: (i) modernization of irrigation systems increases service levels and farmers have more choices for selecting services provided; (ii) water rates can be reasonably calculated with respect to the level of irrigation services provided; and (iii) farmers are more likely to select an acceptable level of service for a reasonable water price instead of choosing to pay more for a higher quality of service. This paper highlights the importance of policies which support the modernization of irrigation systems and pursuing level-of-service-based water pricing to promote more sustainable irrigation development in developing countries.
Correction: Dilpazeer et al. A Comprehensive Review of the Latest Advancements in Controlling Arsenic Contaminants in Groundwater. Water 2023, 15, 478
Authors: Dilpazeer Fariha , Munir Mamoona , Baloch Muhammad Yousuf Jat , Shafiq Iqrash , Iqbal Javeeria , Saeed Muhammad , Abbas Muhammad Mujtaba , Shafique Sumeer , Aziz Kosar Hikmat Hama , Mustafa Ahmad , Mahboob Iqra
Published: May 2023

There were some errors in the original publication [...]
Colloids in Thermokarst Lakes along a Permafrost and Climate Gradient of Permafrost Peatlands in Western Siberia Using In Situ Dialysis Procedure
Authors: Manasypov Rinat M. , Lim Artem G. , Kriсkov Ivan V. , Raudina Tatiana V. , Kurashev Danil G. , Shirokova Liudmila S. , Pokrovsky Oleg S.
Published: May 2023

Thermokarst lakes in the Western Siberian Lowland (WSL) are major environmental factors controlling organic carbon and trace metal storage in inland waters and greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere. In contrast to previously published research devoted to lake hydrochemistry, hydrobiology, sedimentary carbon, and processes controlling the lake total dissolved (<0.45 μm) solute composition, the colloidal forms of organic carbon (ОC), and related elements remain poorly known, especially across the permafrost gradient in this environmentally important region. Here we sampled 38 thermokarst lakes in the WSL, from the continuous to the permafrost-free zone, and we assessed both the total (<0.45 μm) and low-molecular-weight (<1 kDa) concentrations of 50 major and trace elements using conventional filtration and in situ dialysis. We aimed at quantifying the relationships between the colloidal content of an element and the lake surface area, permafrost coverage (absent, sporadic, isolated, discontinuous, and continuous), pH, and the concentrations of the main colloidal constituents, such as OC, Fe, and Al. There was a positive correlation between the lake area and the contents of the colloidal fractions of DOC, Ni, rare earth elements (REE), and Hf, which could be due to the enhanced mobilization of OC, trace metals, and lithogenic elements from silicate minerals in the soil porewater within the lake watershed and peat abrasion at the lake border. In all permafrost zones, the colloidal fractions of alkalis and alkaline-earth metals decreased with an increase in lake size, probably due to a decrease in the DOC concentration in large lakes. There was an increase in the colloidal fractions of DOC, Fe, Al, trivalent and tetravalent trace cations, Mn, Co, Ni, As, V, and U from the southern, permafrost-free zone to the northern, permafrost-bearing zones. This observation could be explained by an enhanced feeding of thermokarst lakes by suprapermafrost flow and the thawing of dispersed peat ice in the northern regions. Considering the large permafrost gradient of thermokarst lakes sampled in the present study, and applying a space-for-time substitution approach, we do not anticipate sizable changes in the colloidal status of DOC or major or trace elements upon climate warming and the permafrost boundary shifting northwards. For incorporating the obtained results into global biogeochemical models of OC, metal micronutrients, and toxicant migration in the permafrost regions, one has to consider the connectivity among lakes, soil waters, and rivers. For this, measurements of lake colloids across the main hydrological seasons, notably the winter period, are necessary.
Stormwater Green Infrastructure Resilience Assessment: A Social-Ecological Framework for Urban Stormwater Management
Authors: Mosleh Leila , Negahban-Azar Masoud , Pavao-Zuckerman Mitchell
Published: May 2023

Urban areas are increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Stormwater Green infrastructure (SWGI) is seen as an approach to increase the climate resilience of urban areas, because they can buffer precipitation changes brought on by climate change. However, SWGI features themselves need to be resilient to climate change to be able to contribute to the resilience of cities. Thus, we aimed to develop a SWGI resilience assessment framework that could be used to identify challenges and to inform decisionmakers’ efforts to enhance resilience. We developed a resilience assessment framework based upon a resilience matrix approach to recognize effective resilience categories for SWGI by reviewing the literature on critical functionality and barriers to implementation and operation. These categories for SWGI included policy, design, maintenance, economic factors and social factors that influence SWGI functionality. We then identified specific aspects under each category that could be used for assessing SWGI resilience, recognizing that SWGI has critical functionalities and factors controlling its viability. Unlike other SWGI assessment frameworks that are focused on ecosystem services as a final outcome, we worked from a socio-ecological perspective in order to include socio-economic and policy factors and design and planning aspects that affect service provision. Developing a resilience assessment framework is critical for management because it can reveal the specific challenges facing SWGI resilience that have traditionally been overlooked, such as maintenance and social factors. This specific framework can also lead to efficient planning and management by identifying interrelations and hierarchical relationships of categories that influence resilience. Application of this framework will rely upon expert input to connect broad dimensions with specific indicators for SWGI to local priorities in resilience planning.
A Review of Organophosphate Esters in Aquatic Environments: Levels, Distribution, and Human Exposure
Authors: Wang Yisha , Zhao Yanjun , Han Xu , Wang Jiashuo , Wu Chuandong , Zhuang Yuan , Liu Jiemin , Li Wenhui
Published: May 2023

Organophosphate esters (OPEs) are increasingly used as flame retardants and plasticizers in various products. Most of them are physically mixed rather than chemical bonded to the polymeric products, leading to OPEs being readily released into the surrounding environment. Due to their relatively high solubility and mobility, OPEs are ubiquitous in the aquatic environment and may pose potential hazards to human health and aquatic organisms. This review systematically summarized the fate and distribution of OPEs in the aquatic environment and the potential effects of OPEs on humans. Data analysis shows that the concentrations of OPEs vary widely in various types of aquatic environments, including surface water (range: 25–3671 ng/L), drinking water (4–719 ng/L), and wastewater (104–29,800 ng/L). The results of human exposure assessments via aquatic products and drinking water ingestion indicate that all OPEs pose low, but not negligible, risks to human health. In addition, the limitations of previous studies are summarized, and the outlook is provided. This review provides valuable information on the occurrence and distribution of OPEs in the aquatic environment.
Remotely Sensed Data, Morpho-Metric Analysis, and Integrated Method Approach for Flood Risk Assessment: Case Study of Wadi Al-Arish Landscape, Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Khalifa Abdelrahman , Bashir Bashar , Alsalman Abdullah , Naik Sambit Prasanajit , Nappi Rosa
Published: May 2023

Evaluating and predicting the occurrence and spatial remarks of climate and rainfall-related destructive hazards is a big challenge. Periodically, Sinai Peninsula is suffering from natural risks that enthuse researchers to provide the area more attention and scientific investigation. Extracted information from the morpho-metric indices aids in understanding the flood potentiality over various sizes of drainage catchments. In this work, the morpho-metric analysis has been used in order to model the relative signals of flood vulnerability of 16 catchments in northern Sinai. The geospatial technique has been applied to process the digital elevation models (DEMs) in order to produce different analysis maps. Basic geometries, in addition to several morpho-metric indices, were extracted and analyzed by investigating the digital elevation models. Three different effective methods were applied separately to build up three models of flood susceptibility behaviors. Finally, two flood susceptibility signals were defined: the integration method and accurate pixel level conditions models. The integrated method analysis indicates that the western half of the study landscape, including catchments (12, 13, and 14), presents high levels of flood susceptibility in addition to catchment 9 in the eastern half, whereas the other catchments were found to provide moderate levels. The integrated flood susceptibility final map overlaid one of the most effective topographic indices (topographic position index, TPI). The integrated results aided in understanding the link of the general catchments morphometry to the in situ topography for mapping the different flood susceptibility locations over the entire study landscape. Therefore, this can be used for investigating the surface-specific reduction strategy against the impacts of flood hazards in the proposed landscape.
ALMANYA'DA İKİ DİLLİ YETİŞEN TÜRK ÖĞRENCİLERE OYUNLAŞTIRMA İLE ATASÖZLERİ ÖĞRETİMİ KELİMELERLE OKEY OYUNU
Authors: Okuyan Sakinur , OZDEMIR CEMAL
Published: May 2023

Turkish immigrants who have settled in Germany since 1960 have faced some problems. One of these problems is encountered in the field of education. It has been observed that Turkish children living in Germany with their families gradually distance themselves from Turkish language after a certain period of time. This has become a significant issue for Turkish-German bilingual children. The problem addressed in this study is the slow progress in learning Turkish language due to the scarcity of Turkish language materials for Turkish students. In line with this problem, the aim of the study is to investigate the effect of gamification on the learning of proverbs by Turkish students attending Turkish language classes in the Ennepe Ruhr region of North Rhine-Westphalia state in Germany. For this purpose, a material for the game of "Okey" with words related to proverbs was developed to contribute to the learning of proverbs by students. A case study design, which is one of the qualitative research designs, was used in the research. The game of Okey, which is frequently played by the Turkish/German community to have a good time with family members, relatives, and friends, was selected as the material. The words of pre-determined proverbs were written separately on the tiles used in the Okey game. Students were asked to complete these proverbs while playing Okey. Thus, the aim was to help students grasp the proverbs more quickly and retain them in their memories for a longer period of time using gamification techniques in Turkish language classes. As a result of the activities carried out in line with these objectives, the success of students in learning proverbs increased by over 50%. It was determined that the teaching of proverbs through the game of Okey was a successful gamification activity.
Analisis Price To Earning Ratio Dan Price To Book Value Dalam Pengambilan Keputusan Investasi
Authors: Mislinawati Mislinawati , Sari Dewi Maya
Published: May 2023

This research was conducted to calculate and analyze the Price to Earning Ratio (PER) and Price to Book Value at state-owned banking companies for the 2018-2020 period. The data used is secondary data. The results showed that market value ratio analysis using the PER method, state-owned banking companies's share price can be said to be expensive because the PER value is higher than 10, while the results of market value ratio analysis using the PBV This research was conducted to calculate and analyze the price to earnings ratio (PER) and price to book value at state-owned banking company for the 2018–2020 period. The data used is secondary data. The results showed that, using market value ratio analysis using the PER method, state-owned banking companies’s share price can be said to be expensive because the PER value is higher than 10, while the results of market value ratio analysis using the PBV method state-owned banking companies's share price can be said to be expensive because for everyone share of state-owned banking companies investors must pay more than the book value of the shares. Overvalued conditions occurred in 2018–2020, so it is not recommended to invest in that year.