bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Applications of Bambusa stenostachya Leaf Extract in Personal Care Products
Authors: Liu Hsuan-Chieh , Hsieh Cheng-Yang , Tsai Po-Wei , Chou Tzu-Yu , Yang Shu-Ching , Chang Ching-Hui , Huang Ying-Pin , Chien Chuan-Chi , Lee Shih-Chi , Shih Hsin-Der , Liu Yung-Chuan
Published: January 2025

Concerns about the safety of traditional preservatives in personal care products are driving interest toward self-preserving alternatives. This study explores the potential of B. stenostachya leaf extracts, a natural and biodegradable material, for use in cosmetics. B. stenostachya, a fast-growing bamboo species native to Taiwan, is rich in bioactive compounds, including flavonoids with antimicrobial properties. Leaves were obtained from the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) in Tainan, Taiwan, and extracted using ultrasonic and Soxhlet methods with water, 50% ethanol, and 95% ethanol. The highest yield was achieved with 50% ethanol at 100 °C. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblast cell line, with no toxicity observed at dilutions between 1/3200 and 1/400, indicating the extract’s safety for cosmetic use. Antimicrobial activity was tested in accordance with ISO 11930:2019 standards. The extract effectively inhibited Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus pathogens, meeting preservative efficacy Standards A and B for long-term microbial control. Bamboo is a sustainable resource with lower environmental impacts, and its products show promising biodegradability and reduced environmental footprints. This research indicates that the B. stenostachya leaf extract offers a sustainable alternative to chemical preservatives, promoting both environmental sustainability and public health, with the potential for expanded use in natural personal care formulations.
Identification of Proteoforms Related to Nelumbo nucifera Flower Petaloid Through Proteogenomic Strategy
Authors: Lin Zhongyuan , Shu Jiantao , Qin Yu , Cao Dingding , Deng Jiao , Yang Pingfang
Published: January 2025

Nelumbo nucifera is an aquatic plant with a high ornamental value due to its flower. Despite the release of several versions of the lotus genome, its annotation remains inefficient, which makes it difficult to obtain a more comprehensive knowledge when –omic studies are applied to understand the different biological processes. Focusing on the petaloid of the lotus flower, we conducted a comparative proteomic analysis among five major floral organs. The proteogenomic strategy was applied to analyze the mass spectrometry data in order to dig out novel proteoforms that are involved in the petaloids of the lotus flower. The results revealed that a total of 4863 proteins corresponding to novel genes were identified, with 227 containing single amino acid variants (SAAVs), and 72 originating from alternative splicing (AS) genes. In addition, a range of post-translational modifications (PTMs) events were also identified in lotus. Through functional annotation and homology analysis with 24 closely related plant species, we identified five candidate proteins associated with floral organ development, which were not identified by ordinary proteomic analysis. This study not only provides new insights into understanding the mechanism of petaloids in lotus but is also helpful in identifying new proteoforms to improve the annotation of the lotus genome.
Recovering Attached Crude Oil from Hydrodesulfurization Spent Catalysts
Authors: Hong Xin , Chen Jingyi , Wei Jing , Wu Wenjie , Yang Ziyan , Chen Jing , Sun Shuchen , Xiao Faxin , Tu Ganfeng
Published: January 2025

As environmental awareness grows, hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalysts have become crucial in petroleum refining, yet their use results in oil-laden waste, poses environmental risks, and complicates subsequent treatment. Efficient oil removal is thus critical for processing spent catalysts. This study systematically compares three de-oiling methods, extraction, chemical thermal washing, and pyrolysis, to identify the optimal de-oiling method. In the experiments, extraction achieves a 94.12% oil removal rate at a liquid-to-solid ratio of 10 mL/g, a temperature of 45 °C, and a time of 60 min, maintaining around 90% efficiency after five cycles of solvent recovery. Chemical thermal washing achieves an oil removal rate of 96.26% after 4 h at 90 °C, with 0.15 wt.% SDS, 3.0 wt.% NaOH, and a liquid-to-solid ratio of 10 mL/g. The heavy oil emulsion is then decomposed with 4% CuO and 5% H2O2. The pyrolysis method removes 96.19% of oil at 600 °C in 60 min. While the extraction and chemical thermal washing methods are effective, they produce wastewater, raising environmental concerns. In contrast, the pyrolysis method is more environmentally friendly. SEM, EDS, and FT-IR analyses show that after oil removal, the metal structures on the alumina support of the spent HDS catalyst are clearly exposed, facilitating the subsequent recovery of valuable metals.
Vajravārāhī in Khara Khoto and Prajñāpāramitā in East Java: Connected by Pearl Ornaments
Authors: Pullen Lesley S
Published: January 2025

This research, situated in the geographical and historical context of the Tangut and East Java, uncovers a significant aspect of the evolution of Buddhist art styles. A thangka of the goddess Vajravārāhī found in Khara Khoto, dated to the late 12th century, shows the bodhisattva decorated with a pearl-chain girdle and upper-arm bands. This form of pearl-chain jewellery, which appears on Vajravārāhī and other Sino-Tibetan-style bodhisattvas, also appears on three stone statues of the goddess Prajñāpāramitā in East Java, all of which depict a near identical use of this pearl-chain ornamentation, as well as on a statue of Prajñāpāramitā at the Muara Jambi Buddhist site in Sumatra. Maritime trade between the regions of China and Java was extensive. The commonality of such motifs in China and Java may highlight a convergence of cultural forces and perhaps shared styles originating from the maritime realm and traded via maritime routes; however, a direct or indirect influence of Sino-Tibetan styles on thangka paintings featuring this depiction of the jewellery perhaps occurred following dynamics of north–south exchange, highlighting the interrelated links along maritime and overland routes through the Pāla Buddhist kingdom in eastern India. Thus, I propose that the connection between the Vajravārāhī and other Tibetan thangka paintings was inspired by Northeast Indian influence from the Hexi corridor, eventually reaching East Java.
Theoretical and Practical Approaches in Watershed Management Across Different Environmental Contexts
Authors: Zema Demetrio Antonio , Lucas-Borja Manuel Esteban
Published: January 2025

A watershed is defined as ‘a topographically delineated area that is drained by a stream system’ [...]
Climatological Investigation of Ionospheric Es Layer Based on Occultation Data
Authors: Ruan Haibing , Qiu Xiuwen , Guo Xin , Wang Xiangxue , Zhang Xin
Published: January 2025

Sporadic E (Es) layers are irregular structures that occur at the E-layer height of the ionosphere, significantly affecting the reliability and accuracy of wireless communications, navigation, and satellite remote sensing. This study utilized the S4max data collected from the Constellation Observing System for the Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (COSMIC) occultation observations from 2007 to 2016 to identify the Es layer and investigate its climatological variations. The Horizontal Wind Field model (HWM14), in conjunction with the International Geomagnetic Reference Field model (IGRF13), is used to calculate vertical ion convergence (VIC) and analyze its correlation to the Es layers. The results of this study showed that the occurrence of Es has apparent hemispheric asymmetry. In the mid- and low latitudes, Es layer activity is more intense in the summer hemispheres, with center peak altitudes of around 105 km. The summer hemisphere exhibits a semi-diurnal periodic pattern, whereas the winter hemisphere shows a weakened diurnal variation. Simulation studies indicate that VIC induced by neutral wind shear contributes to the asymmetry in Es layer activities observed between the Northern and Southern hemispheres, and the zonal wind shear plays a more critical role than the meridional wind one.
C-SAR/02 Satellite Polarimetric Calibration and Validation Based on Active Radar Calibrators
Authors: Jiao Yanan , Zhang Fengli , Liu Xiaochen , Huang Zhiwei , Yuan Jingwen
Published: January 2025

Quad-polarization synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites are important detection tools in Earth observation and remote sensing; in particular, they are of great significance for accurately interpreting radar data and inverting geophysical parameters. Polarimetric calibration is particularly critical to eliminate the effects of distortion in polarized SAR data. The C-SAR/02 satellite launched by China is an important part of the C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) constellation, and the quad-polarization strip I (QPSI) is an important imaging mode for its sea–land observation. The relevant research on its polarimetric calibration is still lacking. This study’s polarimetric calibration of C-SAR/02 was performed based on the active radar calibrator (ARC) method using four independently developed L/S/C multi-band ARCs and several trihedral corner reflectors (CRs). The polarimetric calibration distortion matrix varies along the range direction; the polarimetric calibration distortion matrix and polarimetric calibration accuracy along the range direction were analyzed, incorporating the devices in different range directions to calculate the distortion matrix. This approach improved the accuracy of the polarimetric calibration results and the effect of the quantization application of the C-SAR satellites. Moreover, our experimental results indicate that the method presented herein is suitable for the C-SAR/02 satellite and may also be more universally applicable to C-SAR-series satellites.
Self-Supervised Deep Hyperspectral Inpainting with Plug-and-Play and Deep Image Prior Models
Authors: Li Shuo , Yaghoobi Mehrdad
Published: January 2025

Hyperspectral images are typically composed of hundreds of narrow and contiguous spectral bands, each containing information regarding the material composition of the imaged scene. However, these images can be affected by various sources of noise, distortions, or data loss, which can significantly degrade their quality and usefulness. This paper introduces a convergent guaranteed algorithm, LRS-PnP-DIP(1-Lip), which successfully addresses the instability issue of DHP that has been reported before. The proposed algorithm extends the successful joint low-rank and sparse model to further exploit the underlying data structures beyond the conventional and sometimes restrictive unions of subspace models. A stability analysis guarantees the convergence of the proposed algorithm under mild assumptions, which is crucial for its application in real-world scenarios. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the proposed solution consistently delivers visually and quantitatively superior inpainting results, establishing state-of-the-art performance.
Sequential Multimodal Underwater Single-Photon Lidar Adaptive Target Reconstruction Algorithm Based on Spatiotemporal Sequence Fusion
Authors: Rong Tian , Wang Yuhang , Zhu Qiguang , Wang Chenxu , Zhang Yanchao , Li Jianfeng , Zhou Zhiquan , Luo Qinghua
Published: January 2025

For the demand for long-range and high-resolution target reconstruction of slow-moving small underwater targets, research on single-photon lidar target reconstruction technology is being carried out. This paper reports the sequential multimodal underwater single-photon lidar adaptive target reconstruction algorithm based on spatiotemporal sequence fusion, which has strong information extraction and noise filtering ability and can reconstruct the target depth and reflective intensity information from complex echo photon time counts and spatial pixel relationships. The method consists of three steps: data preprocessing, sequence-optimized extreme value inference filtering, and collaborative variation strategy for image optimization to achieve high-quality target reconstruction in complex underwater environments. Simulation and test results show that the target reconstruction method outperforms the current imaging algorithms, and the built single-photon lidar system achieves underwater lateral and distance resolution of 5 mm and 2.5cm@6AL, respectively. This indicates that the method has a great advantage in sparse photon counting imaging and possesses the capability of underwater target imaging under the background of strong light noise. It also provides a good solution for underwater target imaging of small slow-moving targets with long-distance and high-resolution.
Integrated Sensing and Communication Target Detection Framework and Waveform Design Method Based on Information Theory
Authors: Miao Qilong , Shen Xiaofeng , Xie Chenfei , Gao Yong , Chen Lu
Published: January 2025

Target detection is a core function of integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) systems. The traditional likelihood ratio test (LRT) target detection algorithm performs inadequately under low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) conditions, and the performance of mainstream orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) waveforms declines sharply in high-speed scenarios. To address these issues, an information-theory-based orthogonal time frequency space (OTFS)-ISAC target detection processing framework is proposed. This framework adopts the OTFS waveform as its fundamental signal. The target detection is implemented through a relative entropy test (RET) comparing echo signals against target presence/absence hypotheses. Furthermore, to enhance the system’s target detection capability, the iterative OTFS-ISAC waveform design (I-OTFS-WD) method which maximizes the relative entropy is proposed. This method utilizes the minorization-maximization (MM) algorithm framework and semidefinite relaxation (SDR) technique to transform the non-convex optimization problem into an iterative convex optimization problem for resolution. The simulation results demonstrate that, under sufficient sample conditions, the RET algorithm achieves a 9.12-fold performance improvement over LRT in low-SNR scenarios; additionally, the optimized waveform reduces the sample requirements of the RET algorithm by 40%, further enhancing the target detection capability of the OTFS-ISAC system.
Design of a Cost-Effective Ultrasound Force Sensor and Force Control System for Robotic Extra-Body Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Zheng Yixuan , Ning Hongyuan , Rangarajan Eason , Merali Aban , Geale Adam , Lindenroth Lukas , Xu Zhouyang , Wang Weizhao , Kruse Philipp , Morris Steven , Ye Liang , Fu Xinyi , Rhode Kawal , Housden Richard James
Published: January 2025

Ultrasound imaging is widely valued for its safety, non-invasiveness, and real-time capabilities but is often limited by operator variability, affecting image quality and reproducibility. Robot-assisted ultrasound may provide a solution by delivering more consistent, precise, and faster scans, potentially reducing human error and healthcare costs. Effective force control is crucial in robotic ultrasound scanning to ensure consistent image quality and patient safety. However, existing robotic ultrasound systems rely heavily on expensive commercial force sensors or the integrated sensors of commercial robotic arms, limiting their accessibility. To address these challenges, we developed a cost-effective, lightweight, 3D-printed force sensor and a hybrid position–force control strategy tailored for robotic ultrasound scanning. The system integrates patient-to-robot registration, automated scanning path planning, and multi-sensor data fusion, allowing the robot to autonomously locate the patient, target the region of interest, and maintain optimal contact force during scanning. Validation was conducted using an ultrasound-compatible abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) phantom created from patient CT data and healthy volunteer testing. For the volunteer testing, during a 1-min scan, 65% of the forces were within the good image range. Both volunteers reported no discomfort or pain during the whole procedure. These results demonstrate the potential of the system to provide safe, precise, and autonomous robotic ultrasound imaging in real-world conditions.
Fault Detection in Induction Machines Using Learning Models and Fourier Spectrum Image Analysis
Authors: Barrera-Llanga Kevin , Burriel-Valencia Jordi , Sapena-Bano Angel , Martinez-Roman Javier
Published: January 2025

Induction motors are essential components in industry due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This study presents an innovative methodology for automatic fault detection by analyzing images generated from the Fourier spectra of current signals using deep learning techniques. A new preprocessing technique incorporating a distinctive background to enhance spectral feature learning is proposed, enabling the detection of four types of faults: healthy motor coupled to a generator with a broken bar (HGB), broken rotor bar (BRB), race bearing fault (RBF), and bearing ball fault (BBF). The dataset was generated from three-phase signals of an induction motor controlled by a Direct Torque Controller under various operating conditions (20–1500 rpm with 0–100% load), resulting in 4251 images. The model, based on a Visual Geometry Group (VGG) architecture with 19 layers, achieved an overall accuracy of 98%, with specific accuracies of 99% for RAF, 100% for BRB, 100% for RBF, and 95% for BBF. A new model interpretability was assessed using explainability techniques, which allowed for the identification of specific learning patterns. This analysis introduces a new approach by demonstrating how different convolutional blocks capture particular features: the first convolutional block captures signal shape, while the second identifies background features. Additionally, distinct convolutional layers were associated with each fault type: layer 9 for RAF, layer 13 for BRB, layer 16 for RBF, and layer 14 for BBF. This methodology offers a scalable solution for predictive maintenance in induction motors, effectively combining signal processing, computer vision, and explainability techniques.
An Over-Actuated Hexacopter Tilt-Rotor UAV Prototype for Agriculture of Precision: Modeling and Control
Authors: Pimentel Gabriel Oliveira , Santos Murillo Ferreira dos , Lima José , Mercorelli Paolo , Fernandes Fernanda Mara
Published: January 2025

This paper focuses on the modeling, control, and simulation of an over-actuated hexacopter tilt-rotor (HTR). This configuration implies that two of the six actuators are independently tilted using servomotors, which provide high maneuverability and reliability. This approach is predicted to maintain zero pitch throughout the trajectory and is expected to improve the aircraft’s steering accuracy. This arrangement is particularly beneficial for precision agriculture (PA) applications where accurate monitoring and management of crops are critical. The enhanced maneuverability allows for precise navigation in complex vineyard environments, enabling the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to perform tasks such as aerial imaging and crop health monitoring. The employed control architecture consists of cascaded proportional (P)-proportional, integral and derivative (PID) controllers using the successive loop closure (SLC) method on the five controlled degrees of freedom (DoFs). Simulated results using Gazebo demonstrate that the HTR achieves stability and maneuverability throughout the flight path, significantly improving precision agriculture practices. Furthermore, a comparison of the HTR with a traditional hexacopter validates the proposed approach.
Dynamic Matching of Emotions and Skin Conductance Responses in Interactive and Prolonged Emotional Scenarios
Authors: Kosuge Yuki , Okamoto Shogo
Published: January 2025

Skin Conductance Response (SCR) is a physiological index associated with arousing emotions. Previous studies have not explored the relationship between SCR signals and emotions in situations where multiple emotions dynamically fluctuate. Moreover, methods suitable for analyzing such conditions have not yet been established. In this study, we recorded the temporal changes in multiple emotions as subjectively reported by participants using the Temporal Dominance of Emotions (TDE) method. We then matched these subjective reports with the evolving SCR signals through regression analysis. This approach reveals which emotions contribute to increased SCR signals in prolonged, emotionally charged scenarios, such as watching videos or playing video games. To validate our method, we recorded SCR signals while participants played a video game. Participants then performed the TDE task to recall their emotions while viewing recorded footage. This study involved 20 participants. Our analysis showed that emotions such as excitement, tension, and frustration significantly covaried with the physiological signals. These arousing emotions are known to evoke SCR, supporting the validity of our method. This approach introduces a novel experimental methodology for comparing subjective reports and high-responsive physiology signals in settings where multiple emotions dynamically change.
Perceptions of Work–Family–Engineering Relationships Among Employed Female Engineers in Yemen: A Survey Study
Authors: Ghaleb Atef M. , Abdulkhaliq Laila , Al-nour Halah Abd , Amrani Mokhtar Ali , Hebah Hanaa A. , Mejjaouli Sobhi
Published: January 2025

Work–family conflict (WFC) is a worldwide and timeless dilemma that negatively and significantly impacts the performance of employees, families, and organizations. It intensifies when the career is engineering, the employee is female, and the job environment requires heavy-duty and field tasks. The present study investigates the WFC in an engineering environment for female engineers and studies many women-related issues in Yemen. Three questionnaires targeted 130 female engineer graduates, 60 senior engineers, and 20 female engineers’ husbands. The results indicated that marriage is strongly and negatively correlated to educational performance, job opportunities, and job continuity. The present study suggests that, in conservative societies, disruptions from family-to-work are more pronounced compared to work-to-family. Several external factors, including low stipends, economic downturns, and political crises, have a negative impact on job opportunities and job spillover. A significant finding revealed that the average wage of female engineers in Yemen is USD 145, which is 3.822 times lower than that of their male counterparts. The survey results indicated that only single female engineers, but not married female engineers, are currently employed in the industrial and construction sector. Most female engineering graduates are working in jobs unrelated to engineering. Employed females face balancing professional responsibilities, household tasks, and social commitments. Society needs to implement policies that alleviate the pressure on women’s work and promote and support dual-earning couples to enhance family income. The present study recommends organizations offer flexible work schedules, allow remote work options, and create a healthy work environment to address the work–family imbalance, particularly in male-dominated environments.
Shifting from Religious Populism to Authoritarian Populism: Two Decades of Identity Politics Dynamics in Indonesia
Authors: Hidayah Arina Rohmatul , Bajari Atwar , Hidayat Dadang Rahmat , Maryani Eni
Published: January 2025

This article aims to answer the question of whether identity-based movements are free from tendencies in political economy. By analyzing the actions and orientations of the militant Islamic group from the New Order to the Reform era, we show that social movements based on cultural identities are far from representing the demands of groups of recognition. Rather, these movements are leveraged as political tools for the executive group in determining dominant issues among the public to increase voter preferences and bring economic benefits to militant Islamic groups. This is insisted upon through a shift in political trends from religious populism to authoritarian populism. We argue that a possible solution could be prioritizing democratic values that lead to performance and integrity, not sectoral interests that can create fragmentation in society.
Cannabis for Chronic Pain: Mechanistic Insights and Therapeutic Challenges
Authors: Matos Carla , Pereira Ana Teresa , Dias Maria João , Sousa Carla , Vinha Ana Ferreira , Moutinho Carla , Carvalho Márcia
Published: January 2025

Chronic pain represents a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide, significantly compromising their quality of life. The conventional approach to treating this type of pain often relies on the use of opioid analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. While these agents are effective in the short term, they present several limitations, including the risk of dependence, severe side effects, and, in some cases, ineffectiveness in reducing pain. In this context, medical cannabis has emerged as a promising therapeutic alternative, given its potential ability to relieve pain effectively with a favorable safety profile. This work aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date review of the existing literature on the effects of medical cannabis in the treatment of chronic pain. Cannabis sativa contains several pharmacologically active compounds, the most prominent of which are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, thereby modulating the pain response. Clinical evidence has shown that cannabinoids can significantly reduce the intensity of chronic pain, particularly in cases of neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and other painful conditions that are unresponsive to conventional treatments. However, the full integration of medical cannabis into clinical practice faces significant obstacles, including the need for standardized dosing, long-term safety data, and regulatory frameworks. These issues, alongside concerns over adverse effects and drug interactions, must be addressed to unlock the full therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, particularly for chronic pain patients, who endure both physical suffering and the added burden of stress.
Stability Analysis of Surrounding Rock in Mining Tunnels Based on Microseismic Monitoring and Numerical Simulation
Authors: Wu Hao , Li Qingfeng , Zhu Chuanqu , Tang Pei
Published: January 2025

In response to the safety hazards and environmental impacts caused by the decrease in the stability of the surrounding rock of the roadway and the frequent occurrence of microseismic activities during coal mining, the 4331 fully mechanized mining face of Nanpingdong Coal Mine was selected as a case study. Microseismic monitoring technology was used to analyze the spatial distribution of microseismic events in the surrounding rock during mining, and by establishing a FLAC3D numerical model, the displacement of surrounding rock and the evolution law of plastic zone during mining process are studied. The results confirmed that elastic strain energy in the rock is the primary source of microseismic energy. Using FISH language, a distribution cloud map of elastic strain energy was generated and compared with the microseismic event distribution and energy results. The findings indicate that as mining advances, the frequency and energy of microseismic events increase, particularly near faults, with roadway roof rupture exacerbating the events. The distribution of microseismic events correlates strongly with the depth of mining face advancement, highlighting the significant impact of mining activities on surrounding rock stability. The numerical simulation results closely align with on-site microseismic monitoring data, validating the simulation’s accuracy. This study proposes a method for dynamic monitoring and control of roadway surrounding rock stability through real-time microseismic monitoring and numerical simulation, aiming to mitigate surface environmental damage from underground mining.
A Robust Linear Active Disturbance Rejection Control for Renewable Energy Grid-Connected System Based on APF
Authors: Zhao Zhenqing , Song Kai , Huang Boyan , Li Cong , Jiang Shulin , Sun Jiangbo , Li Hongxu , Lian Zihui
Published: January 2025

With the energy transition and changes in electrical load structures, harmonic distortion in power systems is increasingly threatening grid stability, especially during the integration of renewable energy sources. Active power filters (APFs) are commonly used to improve power quality, but current fluctuations and voltage instability caused by DC-side capacitor charging and discharging hinder effective harmonic compensation. To address this, this paper presents a method combining a variable-step-size adaptive linear predictor with linear active disturbance rejection control (VALP-LADRC). By integrating an adaptive linear predictor (ALP) with LADRC, the proposed method effectively reduces the impact of disturbances on control, improving voltage regulation and harmonic compensation, and enhancing renewable energy grid integration. To address delays during the adjustment of initial parameters in the adaptive predictor, we combine it with a variable-step-size algorithm, significantly improving disturbance rejection and tracking accuracy, while solving voltage drop issues. The simulation results in a photovoltaic grid-connected system show that VALP-LADRC effectively mitigates disturbances, ensures voltage stability, and enhances power quality. This approach offers a promising solution for supporting sustainable development through better renewable energy integration and improved power quality.
Digital Economy, Green Innovation Efficiency, and New Quality Productive Forces: Empirical Evidence from Chinese Provincial Panel Data
Authors: Xu Yunsong , Wang Ruixun , Zhang Shanfei
Published: January 2025

As a new economic form driven and empowered by digital technology, the development of the digital economy has become a crucial pathway for boosting the advancement of new quality productive forces. This study employs the entropy method to measure the comprehensive evaluation index system for both the digital economy and new quality productive forces and further utilizes the unexpected output super-efficiency model to calculate the green innovation efficiency index. On this basis, panel data of 31 provinces in China from 2012 to 2022 are selected to conduct a quantitative analysis from a multidimensional perspective innovatively, examining the overall, heterogeneous, and spatial effects of the digital economy on new quality productive forces, as well as the mediating, moderated mediating, and threshold effects of green innovation efficiency. The research findings indicate that (1) the digital economy significantly promotes the development of new quality productive forces, and this conclusion is robust; (2) the impact of the digital economy on new quality productive forces exhibits regional heterogeneity; (3) there is a positive spatial spillover effect of the digital economy on new quality productive forces; (4) the digital economy can facilitate the development of new quality productive forces by enhancing green innovation efficiency; (5) industrial structure upgrading moderates the mediating effect of the digital economy on new quality productive forces, specifically regulating the promoting effect of green innovation efficiency on new quality productive forces; and (6) the impact of the digital economy on new quality productive forces exhibits a nonlinear characteristic of “increasing marginal effect”. Consequently, this study proposes targeted suggestions from four dimensions: accelerating the construction of digital infrastructure, vigorously enhancing green innovation efficiency, promoting the deep integration of digitalization and greenization, and facilitating industrial upgrading and coordinated development. These suggestions serve as valuable empirical insights into China’s transformation path selection and sustainable high-quality development in the new era.
Quality Education for Sustainable Development: Evolving Pedagogies to Maintain a Balance Between Knowledge, Skills, and Values-Case Study of Saudi Universities
Authors: MuhammedZein Fatima Abdelrahman , Abdullateef Shifan Thaha
Published: January 2025

Ozone depletion, global warming, soil degradation, etc., could be, to a great extent, instrumental in making our Earth an unsafe place. Therefore, to prevent further damage, Article 6 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) emphasizes spreading awareness among the members of the planetary community to protect the planet. The study aims to identify teaching pedagogies that can effectively develop awareness and responsibility among university youth for a sustainable future. The study adopts an exploratory triangulation approach and uses three instruments: a closed-ended questionnaire, a focus group interview, and a comparative performance of control and experimental groups. Fifty-one faculties from two government universities of Saudi Arabia: Qassim University, Qassim, and Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj along with 47 students pursuing conversation courses at Level Three in Prince Sattam University participated in the study. JASP 0.9 open-source software was used for statistical analysis. The results revealed that constructivist inquiry-based approaches promoted sustainable development education.
Does ESG Performance Enhance Corporate Green Technological Innovation? Micro Evidence from Chinese-Listed Companies
Authors: Lu Chenhui , Wu Caitian , Feng Linjie , Zhan Jinghui , Shi Yi , Chen Huangxin
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance on the green technological innovation (GTI) of Chinese A-share-listed companies, using data from 2009 to 2022. The findings indicate that strong ESG performance significantly enhances GTI, with this effect being more pronounced in state-owned firms and non-high-tech sectors, demonstrating heterogeneity across firm types. Mechanism analysis reveals that ESG performance facilitates GTI by mitigating financing constraints and boosting R&D investments. Moreover, the study identifies a non-linear relationship, wherein the effect of ESG on GTI varies with firm size and environmental regulation intensity, as confirmed through a threshold model. This study not only deepens the theoretical framework linking corporate ESG performance with GTI but also uncovers the practical mechanisms through which ESG performance drives GTI, providing both practical insights and theoretical foundations for governments to formulate corporate green transition policies.
One and the Same or Worlds Apart? Linking Transformative Regional Resilience and Just Transitions Through Welfare State Policies
Authors: Neuhuber Tatjana
Published: January 2025

This paper explores the intersection between transformative resilience and just transitions, two increasingly significant frameworks in the context of environmental and socio-economic adaptation. Applying a systematic literature review, this paper examines how these concepts are defined and identifies both overlapping and non-overlapping dimensions within the existing literature. The analysis then shifts to consider the role of welfare state policies in reinforcing these connections. Specifically, this study assesses how physical social infrastructure, welfare state provisions, and eco-social policies are able to bridge the concepts of transformative resilience and just transitions. The findings indicate a notable gap in the literature connecting transformative resilience and just transition, despite the potential for aligning these concepts. This paper thus contributes to the theoretical foundation for discussing transformative resilience and just transitions together, underscoring the need for inclusive policies in sustainable development frameworks.
Enhancing Clay Soil Productivity with Fresh and Aged Biochar: A Two-Year Field Study on Soil Quality and Wheat Yield
Authors: Demirkaya Salih , Ay Abdurrahman , Gülser Coşkun , Kızılkaya Rıdvan
Published: January 2025

Biochar application has gained attention as an effective soil amendment for improving soil quality and increasing crop productivity, particularly in clay-rich soils facing challenges such as compaction, poor drainage, and nutrient limitation. This two-year field study evaluated the effects of fresh and artificially aged biochar on soil chemical, physical, and biological properties and wheat (Triticum aestivum) yield. The experiment was conducted on clay soil with treatments including no biochar application as a control (CK), 5 and 10 t ha−1 fresh biochar (B5, B10) and 5 and 10 t ha−1 aged biochar (AB5, AB10). The results showed significant improvements in soil pH, soil organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, total nitrogen, and plant-available water capacity, particularly with higher doses of biochar. In both years, the effects of the treatments on the soil quality index area (SQI-area) were found to be statistically significant. The AB10 treatment increased SQI-area by 19% compared to the CK in the first year and by 33% in the second year. In the first year, the highest grain yield was obtained from the AB10 treatment, reaching 5.25 t ha−1, which was 13% higher than the CK. In the second year, the highest yield was obtained from the B10 treatment, reaching 4.09 t ha−1, which was 24% higher than the CK. Despite these positive changes, the correlation between SQI and yield was not statistically significant, suggesting that crop yield may also depend on other interacting variables. These results highlight the potential of biochar, particularly aged biochar, as a sustainable practice to improve soil health and productivity in clay soils.
Spatial Kinetic Modeling of Crowd Evacuation: Coupling Social Behavior and Infectious Disease Contagion
Authors: Agnelli Juan Pablo , Armas Claudio , Knopoff Damián A.
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces a kinetic model of crowd evacuation from a bounded domain, integrating social behavior and contagion dynamics. The model describes the spatial movement of individuals in a crowd, taking into account interactions with other people and the geometry of the environment. Interactions between healthy and infectious individuals can lead to disease transmission and are considered. The approach is grounded in the kinetic theory of active particles, where the activity variable represents both the infectious disease status of individuals (e.g., susceptible, infected) and the psychological state of pedestrians, including contagion awareness. Varying awareness levels influence individual behavior, leading to more cautious movement patterns, potentially reducing the overall infection rate. The performance of the model is evaluated through a series of numerical simulations. Different scenarios are examined to investigate the impact of awareness levels on pedestrian behavior, infectious disease spread, and evacuation times. Additionally, the effects of population immunization and individual contagion awareness are assessed to determine the most effective strategy for reducing infections. The results provide valuable insights into targeted strategies to mitigate contagion.
Phytotoxic Effects of Polystyrene Microplastics on Growth Morphology, Photosynthesis, Gaseous Exchange and Oxidative Stress of Wheat Vary with Concentration and Shape
Authors: Riaz Komal , Yasmeen Tahira , Attia Kotb A. , Kimiko Itoh , Arif Muhammad Saleem
Published: January 2025

Microplastics pose a serious ecological threat to agricultural soils, as they are very persistent in nature. Microplastics can enter the soil system in different ways and present different shapes and concentrations. However, little is known about how plants react to microplastics with different concentrations and shapes. To this end, we conducted a factorial pot experiment with wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in which we mixed polystyrene (PS) in different shapes (bead, fiber and powder) with soil at concentrations of 0, 1, 3 and 5%. Although all shapes of PS significantly reduced morphological growth traits, PS in powder shape was the microplastic that reduced plant height (by 58–60%), fresh biomass (by 54–55%) and dry biomass (by 61–62%) the most, especially at the 3% and 5% concentrations compared with 0% PS. Similar negative effects were also observed for root length and fresh root weight at the 3% and 5% concentrations, regardless of shape. A concentration-dependent reduction in the leaf area index (LAI) was also observed. Interestingly, increasing the PS concentration tended to up-regulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes for all shapes, indicating potential complexity and a highly time-dependent response related to various reactive oxygen species (ROS). Importantly, PS at the 5% concentration caused a significant reduction in chlorophyll pigmentation and photosynthetic rate. For the transpiration rate, stomatal conductance and intercellular CO2 concentration, the negative effects of PS on wheat plants increased with the increase in microplastic concentration for all shapes of PS. Overall, we concluded that PS microplastics at higher concentrations are potentially more devastating to the physiological growth and biochemical attributes of wheat, as evidenced by the negative effects on photosynthetic pigments and gas exchange parameters for all shapes. We recommend further research experiments not only on translocation but also on tissue-specific retention of different sizes in crops to fully understand their impact on food safety.
A Study of Combined Onabotulinumtoxin A and Hyaluronic Acid Filler for the Treatment of Enlarged Facial Pores
Authors: Vachiramon Vasanop , Chirasuthat Sonphet , Boonpethkaew Suphagan , Sakpuwadol Nawara , Yongpisarn Tanat , Jurairattanaporn Natthachat
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Enlarged facial pores are a common cosmetic concern caused by excessive sebum production, visible hair shafts, and a reduction in skin elasticity, leading to a decrease in skin quality and overall appearance. Various treatment modalities have been explored to address this issue. This study focuses on the efficacy and safety of combining Onabotulinumtoxin A (OnaBoNT-A) and hyaluronic acid filler (HA filler) to target enlarged facial pores in Asians. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of OnaBoNT-A monotherapy in combination with HA filler for the treatment of enlarged facial pores. This study was a prospective, randomized, single-blinded, split-face, controlled trial that enrolled 32 subjects with visibly enlarged pores on both cheeks. One side of the face received intradermal injections of OnaBoNT-A, while the other side received OnaBoNT-A in combination with intradermal hyaluronic acid filler injection. The outcomes were measured by pore volume, visual assessment, pain score, improvement score, and side effects at various time intervals up to 24 weeks. Results: This study investigated the effects of onaBoNT-A monotherapy or in combination with HA filler on facial pore size and skin roughness. The results showed that both sides exhibited a reduction in pore volume and skin roughness over time, but the side treated with onaBoNT-A monotherapy had a slightly better improvement than the combination side at the 6-month follow-up. Subjects with histories of facial oiliness were more likely to respond to onaBoNT-A monotherapy, while those without histories of facial oiliness were more likely to respond to the side treated with combined treatment. The most common adverse events were erythema, bruising, and edema, which were more frequent on the combination side. Additionally, 18 subjects (56.25%) experienced a palpable lump on the combination side, which resolved in most cases within a few months. Conclusion: BoNT-A and HA dermal filler had a role in reducing pore size. Nonetheless, individuals with enlarged pores who exhibited beneficial effects to botulinum toxin injection typically had a background of facial oiliness. Adverse incidents like dermal edema and palpable nodules were observed, underscoring the significance of meticulous patient selection and accurate injection technique.
Inovirus-Encoded Peptides Induce Specific Toxicity in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Weng Juehua , Guo Yunxue , Gu Jiayu , Chen Ran , Wang Xiaoxue
Published: January 2025

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common opportunistic pathogen associated with nosocomial infections. The primary treatment for infections typically involves antibiotics, which can lead to the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains. Therefore, there is a pressing need for safe and effective alternative methods. Phage therapy stands out as a promising approach. However, filamentous prophages (Pfs) commonly found in P. aeruginosa encode genes with phage defense activity, thereby reducing the efficacy of phage therapy. Through a genomic analysis of the Pf4 prophage, we identified a 102 bp gene co-transcribed with the upstream gene responsible for phage release (zot gene), giving rise to a 33-amino-acid polypeptide that we have named Pf4-encoded toxic polypeptide (PftP4). The overexpression of PftP4 demonstrated cellular toxicity in P. aeruginosa, with subcellular localization indicating its presence in the cell membrane and a subsequent increase in membrane permeability. Notably, PftP4 homologues are found in multiple Pf phages and exhibit specificity in their toxicity towards P. aeruginosa among the tested bacterial strains. Our study reveals that the novel Pf-encoded polypeptide PftP4 has the potential to selectively target and eradicate P. aeruginosa, offering valuable insights for combating P. aeruginosa infections.
Isolation and Genomic Characterization of a Novel Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus 1 from Severely Diseased Piglets in China in 2024
Authors: Yang Shuai , Cui Meng , Li Chen , Qiu Ming , Zhu Xiaoyang , Lin Yanhan , Meng Yifan , Qiu Yuejia , Qi Wenhao , Lin Hong , Zheng Wanglong , Zhu Jianzhong , Fan Kewei , Chen Nanhua
Published: January 2025

Since the first isolation of the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus 1 (PRRSV-1) BJEU06-1 strain from a Beijing pig farm in 2006, more and more PRRSV-1 isolates have been identified in China. In this study, we performed the routine detection of PRRSV-1 using 1521 clinical samples collected in 12 provinces/cities from February 2022 to May 2024. Only three lung samples from severely diseased piglets collected in January 2024 were detected as PRRSV-1-positive (0.197%, 3/1521). A PRRSV-1 strain (AHEU2024-2671) was successfully isolated in primary alveolar macrophages (PAMs) but not in Marc-145 cells. Genome sequencing showed that the AHEU2024-2671 isolate shared the highest genome similarity (90.67%) with the SC2020-1 isolate but only 84.01% similarity with the predominant BJEU06-1 strain. Noticeably, the AHEU2024-2671-like isolates not only contained deletions in nsp2 and the GP3-GP4 overlap region, but also contained a unique 6 nt deletion between nsp12 and the ORF2 gene. Furthermore, a genome-based phylogenetic tree supported that the AHEU2024-2671-like isolates form a novel subgroup within subtype 1. Overall, this study not only supported the idea that PRRSV-1 is rapidly evolving in Chinese swine herds, but also pulled the alarm that novel PRRSV-1 isolates with potentially increased pathogenicity might already exist in China, although they are still rarely detected among Chinese pigs.