bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dependence of the Registered Blood Flow in Incoherent Optical Fluctuation Flowmetry on the Mean Photon Path Length in a Tissue
Authors: Lapitan Denis G. , Tarasov Andrey P. , Rogatkin Dmitry A.
Published: February 2023

Laser-based medical techniques for evaluating blood flow (BF), such as laser Doppler flowmetry, laser speckle contrast imaging, etc., are known, but expensive and have some disadvantages. Recently, we have proposed a new technique—incoherent optical fluctuation flowmetry (IOFF), which is realized using a LED-based optical probe. This work aims to theoretically study the dependence of BF registered by IOFF on the source-detector distance (SDD) in the probe. For this purpose, we developed a three-layer optical model of skin and used Monte Carlo (MC) simulations of light propagation. All computations were performed for a wavelength of 810 nm and several SDDs from 1 to 14 mm. MC results showed that the BF depends nonlinearly on the SDD. Herewith, the BF is strongly correlated with the mean photon path length in a tissue (R = 0.92). Thus, flowmeters with different SDDs can give different BF values on the same patient. Based on the study results, to standardize BF measurements, it has been justified that BF magnitudes measured should be normalized to the exponential function of the SDD in the used optical probe in the form of [1 − exp(−b·SDD)], where b is a constant.
Modeling for Predicting the Potential Geographical Distribution of Three Ephedra Herbs in China
Authors: Guo Longfei , Gao Yu , He Ping , He Yuan , Meng Fanyun
Published: February 2023

Ephedra species are beneficial for environmental protection in desert and grassland ecosystems. They have high ecological, medicinal, and economic value. To strengthen the protection of the sustainable development of Ephedra, we used occurrence records of Ephedra sinica Stapf., Ephedra intermedia Schrenk et C.A. Mey., and Ephedra equisetina Bge., combined with climate, soil, and topographic factors to simulate the suitable habitat of three Ephedra based on ensemble models on the Biomod2 platform. The results of the models were tested using AUC, TSS, and kappa coefficients. The results demonstrated that the ensemble model was able to accurately predict the potential distributions of E. sinica, E. intermedia, and E. equisetina. Eastern and central Inner Mongolia, middle and eastern Gansu, and northeastern Xinjiang were the optimum regions for the growth of E. sinica, E. intermedia, and E. equisetina, respectively. Additionally, several key environmental factors had a significant influence on the suitable habitats of the three Ephedra. The key factors affecting the distribution of E. sinica, E. intermedia, and E. equisetina were annual average precipitation, altitude, and vapor pressure, respectively. In conclusion, the results showed that the suitable ranges of the three Ephedra were mainly in Northwest China and that topography and climate were the primary influencing factors.
Effects of Carbohydrates on Rosmarinic Acid Production and In Vitro Antimicrobial Activities in Hairy Root Cultures of Agastache rugosa
Authors: Yeo Hyeon Ji , Kwon Min Jae , Han Sang Yeon , Jeong Jae Cheol , Kim Cha Young , Park Sang Un , Park Chang Ha
Published: February 2023

Agastache rugosa (popularly known as Korean mint) belongs to the Lamiaceae family and comprises 22 species of perennial aromatic medicinal species native to East Asian countries, such as Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and China. A. rugosa contains many phenolic compounds that exhibit pharmacological and physiological activities, including antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial activities. The highest concentrations of rosmarinic acid and its isomers have been reported in the roots of A. rugosa. In this in vitro study, hairy roots of A. rugosa were obtained and the carbohydrates (sorbitol, mannitol, glucose, maltose, galactose, mannose, and sucrose) were evaluated to determine those that were optimal for rosmarinic acid production and hairy root growth. Antioxidant and antibacterial activities of extracts of A. rugosa were also assessed. The best carbon source for A. rugosa hairy root cultures was sucrose, considering biomass productivity (0.460 ± 0.034 mg/30 mL), rosmarinic acid production (7.656 ± 0.407 mg/g dry weight), and total phenolic content (12.714 ± 0.202 mg/g gallic acid equivalent). Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were displayed by A. rugosa hairy roots cultured in liquid medium supplemented with 100 mM sucrose. Twenty-five bacterial strains, including multidrug-resistant bacteria and one pathogenic yeast strain, were used for antimicrobial screening of A. rugosa hairy roots. The hairy root extracts displayed antibacterial activity against Micrococcus luteus (KCTC 3063) and Bacillus cereus (KCTC 3624). The inhibition of these bacteria was greater using A. rugosa hairy roots with the highest levels of phenolic compounds cultured in the presence of sucrose, compared to hairy roots with the lowest levels of phenolic compounds cultured in the presence of fructose. Considering hairy root biomass, phenolic compound production, and antibacterial activity, sucrose is the best carbon source for A. rugosa hairy root cultures.
Recent Development in Biomedical Applications of Oligonucleotides with Triplex-Forming Ability
Authors: Bekkouche Incherah , Shishonin Alexander Y. , Vetcher Alexandre A.
Published: February 2023

A DNA structure, known as triple-stranded DNA, is made up of three oligonucleotide chains that wind around one another to form a triple helix (TFO). Hoogsteen base pairing describes how triple-stranded DNA may be built at certain conditions by the attachment of the third strand to an RNA, PNA, or DNA, which might all be employed as oligonucleotide chains. In each of these situations, the oligonucleotides can be employed as an anchor, in conjunction with a specific bioactive chemical, or as a messenger that enables switching between transcription and replication through the triplex-forming zone. These data are also considered since various illnesses have been linked to the expansion of triplex-prone sequences. In light of metabolic acidosis and associated symptoms, some consideration is given to the impact of several low-molecular-weight compounds, including pH on triplex production in vivo. The review is focused on the development of biomedical oligonucleotides with triplexes.
Carboxylated Cellulose Nanocrystals Decorated with Varying Molecular Weights of Poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) as Sustainable Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Rabia Eliskander , Tuga Beza , Ondarza José de , Ramos Saleen M. , Lam Edmond , Hrapovic Sabahudin , Liu Yali , Sunasee Rajesh
Published: February 2023

Cationic nanomaterials are promising candidates for the development of effective antibacterial agents by taking advantage of the nanoscale effects as well as other exceptional physicochemical properties of nanomaterials. In this study, carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals (cCNCs) derived from softwood pulp were coated with cationic poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) of varying molecular weights. The resulting cationic carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals coated with poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (cCNCs–PDDA) nanomaterials were characterized for their structural and morphological properties using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, elemental analysis, transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Cationic cCNCs–PDDA were investigated for their antibacterial properties against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli 23934 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using a bacterial lawn growth inhibition assay. cCNC–PDDA materials displayed marked antibacterial activity, particularly against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus. Overall, our results indicated that cCNCs–PDDA could be a potential candidate for antibacterial applications such as antibacterial surfaces or coatings.
Direct In-Mold Impregnation of Glass Fiber Fabric by Polypropylene with Supercritical Nitrogen in Microcellular Injection Molding Process
Authors: He Qichao , Yang Weimin , Wang Jian , Ren Feng , Wang Da , Li Fuhai , Shi Zhonghe
Published: February 2023

Combining microcellular injection molding and insert injection molding, an injection molding technique for glass fiber fabric (GFF) reinforced polypropylene (PP) composite foams was proposed. The GFF was directly set in the mold cavity, and then the PP with supercritical nitrogen (SCN) was injected into the cavity for in-mold impregnation. The impregnation effects of two types of GFFs (EWR300 and EWR600) by the PP/SCF solutions at different injection temperatures (230, 240, and 250 °C) were investigated. The results of the morphological and tensile properties of the samples showed that the interfacial bonding was not good, because of the heterogeneity between the GFF and PP. In comparison with solid PP, the unfoamed GFF/PP did not present a higher tensile strength and presented a lower specific tensile strength. However, the increased tensile strength of the GFF/PP composite foams indicated an improvement in the impregnation effect and interfacial bonding. The SCN decreased the viscosity, which benefited the direct in-mold impregnation of the GFF. Increasing the temperature can improve the interfacial bonding, but it also influenced the foaming and thus led to a decrease in the tensile strength. According to the temperature distribution, the samples from different positions in the mold cavity had different properties.
Structure-Bioactivity Relationship of the Functionalized Polysulfone with Triethylphosphonium Pendant Groups: Perspective for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Dobos Adina Maria , Popa Adriana , Rimbu Cristina Mihaela , Filimon Anca
Published: February 2023

Development of new biomaterials based on polysulfones tailored to act in various biomedical fields represents a promising strategy which provides an opportunity for enhancing the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of specific illnesses. To meet these requirements, structural modification of the polysulfones is essential. In this context, for design of new materials with long-term stability, enhanced workability, compatibility with biological materials and good antimicrobial activity, the functionalization of chloromethylated polysulfones with triethylphosphonium pendant groups (PSFEtP+) was adopted. The surface chemistry analysis (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX)), rheological properties, morphological aspects (Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), polarized light microscopy (POM)), and antimicrobial activity of the synthetized polysulfone were investigated to establish the relationship between its structure and properties, as an important indicator for targeted applications. Based on the obtained features, evaluated by the relationship between the rheological properties and microstructural aspects, and also the response at the biomaterial-bacteria interface, these qualities have been confirmed in their performance, in terms of thermal stability, antimicrobial activity, and also an increase in lifetime. Consequently, derived results constitute the preliminary basis for future tests concerning their functionality as gel matrices in biomedical devices.
Energy-Efficient Bi-Objective Optimization Based on the Moth–Flame Algorithm for Cluster Head Selection in a Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Mistarihi Mahmoud Z. , Bany Salameh Haythem A. , Alsaadi Mohammad Adnan , Beyca Omer F. , Heilat Laila , Al-Shobaki Raya
Published: February 2023

Designing an efficient wireless sensor network (WSN) system is considered a challenging problem due to the limited energy supply per sensor node. In this paper, the performance of several bi-objective optimization algorithms in providing energy-efficient clustering solutions that can extend the lifetime of sensor nodes were investigated. Specifically, we considered the use of the Moth–Flame Optimization (MFO) algorithm and the Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA), as well as the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), in providing efficient cluster-head selection decisions. Compared to a reference scheme using the Low-Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy (LEACH) protocol, the simulation results showed that integrating the MFO, SSA or WOA algorithms into WSN clustering protocols could significantly extend the WSN lifetime, which improved the nodes’ residual energy, the number of alive nodes, the fitness function and the network throughput. The results also revealed that the MFO algorithm outperformed the other algorithms in terms of energy efficiency.
Enzymatic Synthesis Process of EPA- and DHA-Enriched Structured Acylglycerols at the sn-2 Position Starting from Commercial Salmon Oil and Concentrated by Response Surface Methodology under Supercritical Conditions
Authors: Dovale-Rosabal Gretel , Espinosa Alejandra , Rodríguez Alicia , Barriga Andrés , Palomino-Calderón Alan , Aubourg Santiago P.
Published: February 2023

The bioavailability of n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFAs) has shown to be greatly influenced by their location in the triacylglycerol backbone. Therefore, the synthesis of structured acylglycerols (SAcyl), which include eicosapentaenoic acids (EPAs) or docosahexaenoic acids (DHAs) at the sn-2 position, has attracted a great interest. The objective of this study was to optimize the synthesis process of a SAcyl from commercial refined salmon oil and an EPA/DHA concentrate in order to enhance the positioning of EPA and DHA in the sn-2 location of the glycerol moiety. For this purpose, immobilized lipase B from Candida antarctica (nonspecific) was used for the acidolysis process under the CO2 supercritical condition. As a result of carrying out a Draper-Lin composite design through the response surface methodology of 18 experiments, an optimized extraction including SAcyl compounds was obtained. Mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) analysis was employed to identify the EPA/DHA location at the sn-2 position in the resulting glycerol moiety. In the fraction obtained, an increase in the EPA and DHA content at the sn-2 position was detected. Remarkably, the optimized SAcyl obtained after 6 h, 82 bar, and 60 °C led to the highest EPA/DHA yield at the sn-2 position in the resulting molecule.
The Interaction of Programmed Cell Death Protein and Its Ligands with Non-Coding RNAs in Neoplasms: Emerging Anticancer Immunotherapeutics
Authors: Kandeel Mahmoud , Althumairy Duaa , El-Sabagh Ibrahim M. , Shousha Saad , Hussin Yehia , Meligy Ahmed M. A. , Zabady Mohamed K. , Zahran Khaled M. , Elkhair Nawal , Hereba Abdulrahman , Elsebaei Mahmoud G. , Elamin Aliya , Irshad Faiza , Sufyan Muhammad , El-Hassan El-Awad M. , Albokhadaim Ibrahim
Published: February 2023

Recent studies have demonstrated that cancer cells can elude immune cells by creating a sanctuary within the tumor’s microenvironment. Large amounts of immune-suppressing signaling proteins can be expressed by cancer cells. One of the most important mechanisms in this system is immune suppression caused by tumors and the modulation of the immune checkpoint. The immune checkpoint is modulated by both the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligands, programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and PD-L2. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNA), including the more well-known microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), all play roles in the regulation of biological processes and extensive diseases such as cancer. Thus, the focus of this study is on the interactions between the programmed death protein and its ligands with miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs during tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Furthermore, some FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of various cancers were based on their interactions with PD-1, PD-Ls, and ncRNAs. This promising strategy is still in the production stages, with additional results and clinical trials being processed.
Enzymatic Investigation of Spongospora subterranea Zoospore Attachment to Roots of Potato Cultivars Resistant or Susceptible to Powdery Scab Disease
Authors: Yu Xian , Wilson Richard , Eyles Alieta , Balotf Sadegh , Tegg Robert Stephen , Wilson Calum Rae
Published: February 2023

For potato crops, host resistance is currently the most effective and sustainable tool to manage diseases caused by the plasmodiophorid Spongospora subterranea. Arguably, zoospore root attachment is the most critical phase of infection; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. This study investigated the potential role of root-surface cell-wall polysaccharides and proteins in cultivars resistant/susceptible to zoospore attachment. We first compared the effects of enzymatic removal of root cell-wall proteins, N-linked glycans and polysaccharides on S. subterranea attachment. Subsequent analysis of peptides released by trypsin shaving (TS) of root segments identified 262 proteins that were differentially abundant between cultivars. These were enriched in root-surface-derived peptides but also included intracellular proteins, e.g., proteins associated with glutathione metabolism and lignin biosynthesis, which were more abundant in the resistant cultivar. Comparison with whole-root proteomic analysis of the same cultivars identified 226 proteins specific to the TS dataset, of which 188 were significantly different. Among these, the pathogen-defence-related cell-wall protein stem 28 kDa glycoprotein and two major latex proteins were significantly less abundant in the resistant cultivar. A further major latex protein was reduced in the resistant cultivar in both the TS and whole-root datasets. In contrast, three glutathione S-transferase proteins were more abundant in the resistant cultivar (TS-specific), while the protein glucan endo-1,3-beta-glucosidase was increased in both datasets. These results imply a particular role for major latex proteins and glucan endo-1,3-beta-glucosidase in regulating zoospore binding to potato roots and susceptibility to S. subterranea.
Paying Attention to the Spiritual Flourishing of Young Children in Church Toddler Groups: A Scoping Study Evaluating the Feasibility of a Research Study in This Context
Authors: Casson Ann , Woolley Mary , Pittaway Ann , Watts Tansy , Kemp Nicola , Bowie Robert A. , Clemmey Katie , Aantjes Rosanne
Published: February 2023

Attention to the spiritual flourishing of young children contributes to their well-being, both their being and their becoming, but much-needed research in this area poses many challenges. The National Institute for Christian Education Research is undertaking a funded research project investigating the spiritual flourishing of young children in church toddler groups in England. This article reports on a scoping study which investigated the feasibility of a major research study in this area. The study was multifaceted, it involved clarifying terminology, evaluating previous research studies and early years research methods, and led to the development of a potential research framework. The article defines spiritual flourishing as a dynamic state of being, revealed in nurturing the right relationship with self, others, creation, and the transcendent. The findings propose an understanding of children’s spirituality as relational, based in the here and now, and shaped by the environment. Secondly, an exploration of midweek church toddler groups, a common feature across the denominations, through the lens of belonging, behaving, and believing reveals a potential critical contribution to young children’s spiritual flourishing or faith development. Thirdly, following an evaluation of potential effective research methods, the discussion highlights the value of an interdisciplinary study, the potential challenges and proposes a research framework. The article draws attention to the urgent need for more research to understand what contributes to young children’s spiritual flourishing within a Christian context.
Between Social and Legal Legitimations: Weddings outside the Rabbinate in Israel
Authors: Halperin-Kaddari Ruth , Rosman Elisheva , Fuchs Ofira
Published: February 2023

This article examines the case of Israeli Jews who choose to marry in ceremonies outside the state-authorized rabbinical establishment. Formally speaking, these private marriages are not recognized by the State. We focus on the ways in which these marriages become legitimate. The study is based on interviews with forty such couples. Our findings show that these couples tend to attach far more weight to achieving social legitimacy for their marriage than legal recognition and legitimacy. While most sociological and legal analyses of these concepts do not distinguish between the two types of legitimacy, our study reveals a more nuanced and complex interplay in which these processes are perceived as separate (by the couples) while, in fact, they are interconnected. We show that couples are able to experience their weddings as socially legitimate due to the social recognition of their weddings as “traditional.” Additionally, their de facto relations as cohabitant partners grant them similar rights to those of formally married couples in the eyes of the State. Thus, our study demonstrates that, ironically, those who challenge the State’s marriage establishment rely on the very same elements that constitute formal Jewish marriages in Israel.
Vision-Based Dynamic Response Extraction and Modal Identification of Simple Structures Subject to Ambient Excitation
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Ruan Xuzhi , Zhang Yao
Published: February 2023

Vision-based modal analysis has gained popularity in the field of structural health monitoring due to significant advancements in optics and computer science. For long term monitoring, the structures are subjected to ambient excitation, so that their vibration amplitudes are quite small. Hence, although natural frequencies can be usually identified from the extracted displacements by vision-based techniques, it is still difficult to evaluate the corresponding mode shapes accurately due to limited resolution. In this study, a novel signal reconstruction algorithm is proposed to reconstruct the dynamic response extracted by the vision-based approach to identify the mode shapes of structures with low amplitude vibration due to environmental excitation. The experimental test of a cantilever beam shows that even if the vibration amplitude is as low as 0.01 mm, the first two mode shapes can be accurately identified if the proposed signal reconstruction algorithm is implemented, while without the proposed algorithm, they can only be identified when the vibration amplitude is at least 0.06 mm. The proposed algorithm can also perform well with various camera settings, indicating great potential to be used for vision-based structural health monitoring.
Data Pre-Processing and Signal Analysis of Tianwen-1 Rover Penetrating Radar
Authors: Liu Shuning , Su Yan , Zhou Bin , Dai Shun , Yan Wei , Li Yuxi , Zhang Zongyu , Du Wei , Li Chunlai
Published: February 2023

The Rover-mounted Subsurface Penetrating Radar (RoSPR) is one of the scientific payloads onboard China’s first independent Mars exploration mission, Tianwen-1. The radar aims to characterize the thickness of the upper Martian soil and investigate the subsurface stratigraphy by collecting and processing the data. This article is mainly divided into two parts, the introduction of data pre-processing and analysis of pre-processed radar signals, aiming at helping scientists make more effective use of radar data. The first part describes the operating principle of the RoSPR and the procedure of radar data pre-processing at all levels. Data pre-processing is mainly designed to transfer the raw data format to a common PDS (Planetary Data System) and eliminate the influence of the instrument. In the signal analysis part, the performances of both self-check signals and echo signals of low- and high-frequency channels are analyzed, which indicate a stable radar system and are useful for background removal. Phase and time calibration is of great importance for improving data quality and making the radar data more accurate. Moreover, further processing is required to obtain clear radar images, such as filtering, background removal and gain setting.
Which Vegetation Index? Benchmarking Multispectral Metrics to Hyperspectral Mixture Models in Diverse Cropland
Authors: Sousa Daniel , Small Christopher
Published: February 2023

The monitoring of agronomic parameters like biomass, water stress, and plant health can benefit from synergistic use of all available remotely sensed information. Multispectral imagery has been used for this purpose for decades, largely with vegetation indices (VIs). Many multispectral VIs exist, typically relying on a single feature—the spectral red edge—for information. Where hyperspectral imagery is available, spectral mixture models can use the full VSWIR spectrum to yield further insight, simultaneously estimating area fractions of multiple materials within mixed pixels. Here we investigate the relationships between VIs and mixture models by comparing hyperspectral endmember fractions to six common multispectral VIs in California’s diverse crops and soils. In so doing, we isolate spectral effects from sensor- and acquisition-specific variability associated with atmosphere, illumination, and view geometry. Specifically, we compare: (1) fractional area of photosynthetic vegetation (Fv) from 64,000,000 3–5 m resolution AVIRIS-ng reflectance spectra; and (2) six popular VIs (NDVI, NIRv, EVI, EVI2, SR, DVI) computed from simulated Planet SuperDove reflectance spectra derived from the AVIRIS-ng spectra. Hyperspectral Fv and multispectral VIs are compared using both parametric (Pearson correlation, ρ) and nonparametric (Mutual Information, MI) metrics. Four VIs (NIRv, DVI, EVI, EVI2) showed strong linear relationships with Fv (ρ > 0.94; MI > 1.2). NIRv and DVI showed strong interrelation (ρ > 0.99, MI > 2.4), but deviated from a 1:1 correspondence with Fv. EVI and EVI2 were strongly interrelated (ρ > 0.99, MI > 2.3) and more closely approximated a 1:1 relationship with Fv. In contrast, NDVI and SR showed a weaker, nonlinear, heteroskedastic relation to Fv (ρ < 0.84, MI = 0.69). NDVI exhibited both especially severe sensitivity to unvegetated background (–0.05 < NDVI < +0.6) and saturation (0.2 < Fv < 0.8 for NDVI = 0.7). The self-consistent atmospheric correction, radiometry, and sun-sensor geometry allows this simulation approach to be further applied to indices, sensors, and landscapes worldwide.
VIIRS after 10 Years—A Perspective on Benefits to Forecasters and End-Users
Authors: Rogers Matthew A. , Miller Steven D. , Seaman Curtis J. , Torres Jorel , Hillger Donald , Szoke Ed , Line William E.
Published: February 2023

In the ten years of VIIRS observations, a wide range of applications, both operational and research-based, have been developed, observed, and utilized at the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA). Training efforts to improve operational forecast use and achieve a greater understanding of the unique capabilities of the VIIRS have also been developed to better utilize the new observations made possible. Several unique forecast events, made observable using these novel capabilities of the VIIRS, are detailed. A summary of third-party end-user case studies where VIIRS observations are used for analysis of significant socioeconomic gain, part of a recent CIRA workshop, are also highlighted. Thoughts on the future utility of the VIIRS and VIIRS-like platforms are offered.
Correction: Ou et al. Spatio-Temporal Variability of Aerosol Components, Their Optical and Microphysical Properties over North China during Winter Haze in 2012, as Derived from POLDER/PARASOL Satellite Observations. Remote Sens. 2021, 13, 2682
Authors: Ou Yang , Li Lei , Li Zhengqiang , Zhang Ying , Dubovik Oleg , Derimian Yevgeny , Chen Cheng , Fuertes David , Xie Yisong , Lopatin Anton , Ducos Fabrice , Peng Zongren
Published: February 2023

In the published article [...]
Responses of Stream Geomorphic Indices to Piedmont Fault Activity in the Northern Segment of the Red River Fault Zone
Authors: Guo Long , He Zhongtai , Li Linlin
Published: February 2023

Based on a digital elevation model (DEM) and GIS technology, we extracted and analyzed stream geomorphic indices—such as the slope, relief degree of the land surface (RDLS), hypsometric integral (HI) and channel steepness index (ksn)—of the Cangshan Piedmont Fault, Fengyi–Dingxiling Fault and Midu Basin Margin Fault in the northern segment of the Red River Fault Zone. This work indicates that all the stream geomorphic indices show higher values, with the highest values along the Cangshan Piedmont Fault, followed by the Fengyi–Dingxiling Fault, and the lowest values along the Midu Basin Margin Fault, forming a decreasing trend from north to south. Based on lithology, climate and tectonics, we infer that neotectonic activity is the main factor controlling the development of the drainage geomorphology. The results show that the northern segment of the Red River Fault Zone is highly active and that the activity level shows a decreasing trend from north to south. The results of this study are consistent with previous conclusions that the overall activity of the Red River Fault Zone weakens from north to south, and the activity in the northern segment has been the most intense since the Late Pleistocene.
Contested Welfare: Migrant Organizations in Search of Their Role in the German Welfare State
Authors: Günzel Eva , Kellmer Ariana , Klammer Ute , Schlee Thorsten
Published: February 2023

This article examines the role of migrant organizations (MOs) in the welfare state and reflects on the transformation and negotiation processes in the organization of social protection in a society that is increasingly characterized by various forms of cross-border mobility. The article first describes various transformation trends in German social policy by highlighting the activation policy and marketization of social services. This transformation concerns not only the formal (material) forms of social protection and the relationship between migration and social policy, but also the organization of social protection within the German welfare state. By analysing qualitative interviews with representatives of migrant organizations and welfare associations, we then show which roles are ascribed to MOs by other welfare actors in the context of social protection and how the MOs position themselves. We argue that these role ascriptions are part of a negotiation process that goes along with the transformation of the German welfare state. MOs are increasingly addressed in the context of integration policy, while at the same time they are becoming more professional and are claiming a stronger role in formal security services. The discussion of the changing role of MOs in the future organization of the welfare state also sheds light on the question of the successful adaptation of social services to the needs of migrants in general.
Wet Anaerobic Codigestion of Sewage Sludge and OFMSW in Pilot-Scale Continuously Stirred Tank Reactors: Focus on the Reactor Microbial Communities
Authors: Pecorini Isabella , Rossi Elena , Becarelli Simone , Baldi Francesco , Di Gregorio Simona , Iannelli Renato
Published: February 2023

Dark fermentation (DF) is a simple method for hydrogen (H2) production through the valorization of various organic wastes that can be used as feedstock. In particular, an organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) is a fermentation substrate that can easily be gathered and provides high yields in biogas and value-added organic compounds such as volatile fatty acids (VFAs). DF is coupled with a methanogenic reactor to enhance biogas production from the OFMSW. In this study, a two-stage reactor was conducted and monitored to optimize the methane yield by reducing the HRT at the DF reactor. A focus of the functional inference based on a next-generation sequence (NGS) metabarcoding analysis and comparison of microbial communities that populate each reactor stage was performed. Concerning gas quality, the two-stage system observed a hydrogen-rich biogas in the first fermentative reactor (on average 20.2%) and an improvement in the methane content in the second methanogenic digester, which shifted from 61.2% obtained for the one-stage experiment to 73.5%. Such increases were due to the improvement in substrate hydrolysis. As for the specific biogas production, the results showed an overall increase of 50%.
How the Carbonation Treatment of Different Types of Recycled Aggregates Affects the Properties of Concrete
Authors: Etxeberria Miren , Castillo Silvia
Published: February 2023

In this research work, two types of recycled aggregates were used: (1) the recycled concrete aggregate, RCA, obtained by crushing the parent concrete produced using limestone cement and (2) the recycled concrete aggregate RCA-FA produced by crushing parent concrete made with FA blended cement. After the carbonation treatment process, the carbonated RCA-C and RCA-FA-C recycled aggregates were produced. The recycled concrete mixtures were prepared using the four types of recycled aggregates (RCA, RCA-FA, RCA-C, and RCA-FA-C) in 50% (by volume) to replace natural coarse aggregates. The physical and mechanical properties and durability (sorptivity, chloride ion penetration, and carbonation resistance) were determined and analysed. The obtained results were also compared with those of conventional concrete (CC). It was concluded that the physical and mechanical properties of recycled concrete improved when RCA-C were employed in concrete production. In contrast, the recycled concrete produced with RCA-FA-C was found to have the worst property values. According to durability properties, the concrete made with RCA-C and RCA-FA aggregates achieved the highest chloride resistance, similar to CC concrete. Nevertheless, the concrete produced with uncarbonated RCA acquired carbonation resistance equivalent to CC concrete.
Research on the Improvement Path of Regional Green Technology Innovation Efficiency in China Based on fsQCA Method
Authors: Qu Xiaoyu , Qin Xutian , Hu Haichen
Published: February 2023

Improvements in green technology innovation efficiency is the core factor to promote to shape new advantages in resource-saving and environmental friendliness under the new pattern of double-cycle development. It is also the main driving force needed to establish a high-quality development model of an efficient and sustainable economy. Taking 30 provinces of China as case samples, this paper establishes the appraisal system of green technology innovation efficiency. The first step is using the three-stage DEA model to measure green technology innovation efficiency. Then, according to the configuration perspective, the paper uses fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to explore multiple paths for promoting green technology innovation efficiency. The findings are as follows: (1) A single factor of environmental support or technology supply cannot effectively stimulate the improvement of green technology innovation efficiency. Therefore, the impacting factors must be matched to jointly improve green technology innovation efficiency. (2) There are three configuration paths for high green technology innovation efficiency. Namely, they are the driven by economic environment and environmental regulation type; the driven by industrial structure and supply of finance type; and the driven by industrial structure, supply of finance, and supply of manpower type. (3) The paths to generate non-high green technology innovation efficiency can be summarized as one. The shortage of human resources and a poor economic environment are the main reasons for the inhibition of improvements in green technology innovation efficiency; additionally, the configuration of high and non-high green technology innovation efficiency is asymmetrical. On the one hand, our results are helpful for the study of the efficiency of regional green technology innovation at the provincial level. On the other hand, the results also provide practical solutions and a theoretical basis for provinces to promote regional green technology innovation efficiency under the new economic normal.
Influence of Loneliness, Anxiety, and Depression on Suicidal Ideation in Peruvian Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: De La Cruz-Valdiviano Carlos , Bazán-Ramírez Aldo , Henostroza-Mota Carmela , Cossío-Reynaga Marina , Torres-Prado Rocío Yrene
Published: February 2023

Our aim was to determine the influence of the variables Death Anxiety, Loneliness, and Depression on suicidal ideation in Peruvian adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sample consisted of 1342 subjects from Lima–Callao and regions of Peru, selected with non-probabilistic purposive sampling. A predictive, non-experimental design with the cross-sectional measurement using previously validated questionnaires was conducted. The differential effect of the variables Death Anxiety, Loneliness, and Depression on suicidal ideation was found. The two models obtained through structural equation modeling highlight a significant predictive relationship of Depression directly on suicidal ideation, while Loneliness is the second factor that best predicts suicidal ideation’s indirect relationships. Likewise, being single and unemployed were found to be significantly associated (p < 0.05) and to have a differential effect on Death Anxiety, Loneliness and Depression. The same trend was evidenced by people aged less than 30, with no schooling, not practicing sports and sleeping less than 4 h; however, neither having had COVID-19 nor place of residence was found to influence suicidal ideation. As a conclusion, depressive symptomatology is the best predictor of suicidal ideation. Likewise, loneliness indirectly influences suicidal ideation.
Response of Soil Erosion to Climate and Subsequent Vegetation Changes in a High-Mountain Basin
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Fan , Wang Guanxing , Zeng Chen , Chen Yao , Shi Xiaonan , Tang Handuo , Zhao Guangju , Xu Chongyu , Li Xin
Published: February 2023

Soil erosion is one of the global threats to the environment. Further, climate and vegetation changes have pronounced effects on soil erosion in high-mountain areas. In this study, the revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) was improved by developing a method for calculating snowmelt runoff erosivity based on a simulated snowmelt runoff and the observed sediment load, using which the soil erosion rate in the upper Heihe River Basin (UHRB) was calculated. The proposed approach provides an effective method for estimating the soil erosion rate and identifying the causes for its change in high-mountain areas. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was significantly and positively correlated with both precipitation and temperature in the region and exhibited a significant increasing trend. The increase in NDVI led to a decrease in the soil erosion rate (for the annual, rainfall, and snowmelt periods), although erosive rainfall and snowmelt runoff showed increasing trends, indicating the dominating impact of vegetation cover on soil erosion. The average soil erosion rate of UHRB was 806.2 t km−2 a−1 from 1982 to 2015. On average, soil erosion during rainfall and snowmelt periods contributed to 90.67% and 9.33% of annual soil erosion, respectively. However, the resultant soil erosion rate caused by 1 mm of snowmelt runoff was about 1.9 times that caused by 1 mm erosive rainfall. Soil erosion during the snowmelt period was particularly sensitive to temperature and showed consistent responses to climate and vegetation changes in UHRB and its two tributaries. An increasing NDVI promoted by climate change and anthropogenic factors played a major role in alleviating soil erosion, and the warming exerted intense impacts on soil erosion during the snowmelt period. These findings would be helpful for proposing effective measures for soil conservation in high-mountain areas under climate and vegetation changes.
Development of a Construction-Site Work Support System Using BIM-Marker-Based Augmented Reality
Authors: Yoon Jae-Wook , Lee Seung-Hyun
Published: February 2023

Augmented reality (AR) in 3D has been proposed as a way to overcome the shortcomings of 2D drawings. In particular, marker-based AR is known to be more accurate in implementation, but it is not easy to use on construction sites because it requires more time and effort to create corresponding markers for information. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop a building information modeling (BIM)-based AR construction work support system that can be applied to construction sites by automatically generating markers. The system algorithm consists of three modules. The first module classifies and groups the objects of the BIM-based 3D model by work order. The second is used to reconstruct the 3D model by groups and automatically generate the corresponding individual markers for each object. The third specifies the marker position and implements AR by automatically matching of 3D model objects to the corresponding markers. To verify this system, a case study was implemented by projecting the BIM-marker-based AR of a 3D model on an existing building. The results show that the developed system provides 3D models and work-related information in AR at the correct scale, size, and location.
The Agrivoltaic Potential of Canada
Authors: Jamil Uzair , Bonnington Abigail , Pearce Joshua M.
Published: February 2023

Canada has committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by increasing the non-emitting share of electricity generation to 90% by 2030. As solar energy costs have plummeted, agrivoltaics (the co-development of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and agriculture) provide an economic path to these goals. This study quantifies agrivoltaic potential in Canada by province using geographical information system analysis of agricultural areas and numerical simulations. The systems modeled would enable the conventional farming of field crops to continue (and potentially increase yield) by using bifacial PV for single-axis tracking and vertical system configurations. Between a quarter (vertical) and more than one third (single-axis tracking) of Canada’s electrical energy needs can be provided solely by agrivoltaics using only 1% of current agricultural lands. These results show that agrivoltaics could be a major contributor to sustainable electricity generation and provide Canada with the ability to render the power generation sector net zero/GHG emission free. It is clear that the potential of agrivoltaic-based solar energy production in Canada far outstrips current electric demand and can, thus, be used to electrify and decarbonize transportation and heating, expand economic opportunities by powering the burgeoning computing sector, and export green electricity to the U.S. to help eliminate their dependence on fossil fuels.
The Price of Organic Foods as a Limiting Factor of the European Green Deal: The Case of Tomatoes in Spain
Authors: Bernabéu Rodolfo , Brugarolas Margarita , Martínez-Carrasco Laura , Nieto-Villegas Roberto , Rabadán Adrián
Published: February 2023

The consumption of organic food in the EU remains very low, mainly as a result of the higher price of such food compared to conventional products. To determine consumer preferences, 415 consumer surveys were conducted in Madrid (Spain), using tomatoes as the reference for analysis given their significant market recognition in terms of price, types, origin, and production systems. The data analysis was carried out using conjoint analysis and consumer segmentation techniques, maximum willingness to pay, and market share simulations using the maximum utility method. In addition, to better characterize the consumers, their attitudes towards the environment and their lifestyle indicators were defined. Consequently, 25.2% of consumers were found to be the most willing to pay a higher price to consume organic food. The simulation verified that price is the main problem as regards consuming organic food, with a preference for local markets being identified. In general, it is observed that these consumers have a more positive attitude towards the environment and healthier lifestyles. The implementation of the European Green Deal may have the impact of an additional increase in prices owing to higher production costs. To reduce this impact, it would be advisable to stimulate the economic activity of local markets.
Evolutionary Game Analysis of Resilient Community Construction Driven by Government Regulation and Market
Authors: Zhang Panke , Wang Mengtian , Deng Guoqu
Published: February 2023

As the basic unit of residents’ activities and social management, communities are the disaster bearers of various public security emergencies. To improve the ability and level of community governance, as well as to strengthen the construction of resilient communities, a tripartite evolutionary game model of local government, developers, and home buyers is built, and numerical simulation is carried out using Matlab to analyze the impact mechanism of main parameters on the evolutionary stability strategy. The results show that: (1) The three parties’ different initial intentions will lead to different evolutionary stability strategies of the system, and the system’s final evolution result will reach the ideal state only when the initial willingness of developers and buyers is high. (2) The greater the government’s subsidy coefficient and the greater the regulatory intensity, the more likely it is that developers will choose to build resilient communities. (3) Public awareness of disaster prevention and mitigation is an important determinant of the purchase of resilient community housing strategies. To achieve rapid development of resilient communities, the intensity of regulation must be continuously improved, the public’s awareness of disaster prevention and mitigation must be strengthened, and the government’s regulatory costs must be reduced.
The Influence of Elevation, Land Cover and Vegetation Index on LST Increase in Taiwan from 2000 to 2021
Authors: Abdulmana Sahidan , Garcia-Constantino Matias , Lim Apiradee
Published: February 2023

Land Surface Temperature (LST) is an important factor in ground surface energy balance and in universal climatology studies. Elevation, Land Cover (LC), and vegetation index are three factors that influence ground surface variation, and their influences vary depending on geography. This study aimed to: (i) investigate the seasonal patterns and trends of daytime LST, and (ii) examine the influence of elevation, LC, and vegetation index on daytime LST increase in Taiwan from 2000 to 2021. LST, vegetation, and LC data were downloaded from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) website, and elevation data were downloaded from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) website. The natural cubic spline method was applied to investigate annual seasonal patterns and trends in daytime LST. Linear regression modeling was applied to investigate the influence of elevation, LC, and vegetation index on daytime LST increases. The results showed that the average increase in daytime LST per decade in Taiwan was 0.021 °C. Elevation, LC, and vegetation had significantly affected the daytime LST increase, with R2 of 32.5% and 28.1% for the North and South parts of the country, respectively. The daytime LST increase in the North at elevations higher than 1000 m had an increasing trend, while in the South the increasing trend was found at elevations higher than 350 m above sea level. All types of forest and urban areas in the North had a higher daytime LST increase than the average, while in the South, the areas with water, closed shrubland, and urban parts had a higher daytime LST increase than the average.