bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Road of Post-Industrialization Transformation in Developing Countries Based on Weighted Markov and Grey Correlation Theory, Taking the Change of Industrial Structure in Heilongjiang Province of China as a Case Study
Authors: Shao Yan , Yang Zhe , Yang Tianjian
Published: May 2023

In the context of economic globalization, the comparative advantages of developing countries and developed countries tend to be more complex. After the economic crisis in 2008, the challenges of developing countries are intensified, and the game is more cyclical; Especially in the critical period when the “Fourth Industrial Revolution” is pending, many countries have increased their efforts in policy formulation and efficiency improvement, focusing on industrial transformation and upgrading, and closely combining structural reform with the industrialization process. Therefore, it is particularly important to analyze, change and forecast the industrial structure of post-industrial regions in developing countries based on data science algorithms, and to reshape the understanding of the adjustment of the world economic order and the evolution of the international trade division system. Based on the proportion of gross regional product and output value of three industries in Heilongjiang Province of China from 2001 to 2020, the minimum deviation model of industrial structure in Heilongjiang Province is constructed through Markov theory. The Lingo software is used to obtain the transition probability matrix of the industrial structure state, and combined with the autocorrelation coefficient of each order and the transfer weight, the change trend of the proportion of the output value of the three industries and the change of the contribution rate of the three industries (to GDP) in Heilongjiang Province in the next 10 years are obtained; At the same time, through the grey correlation index and spss software, this paper analyzes the correlation changes between the three industrial adjustments and economic development in Heilongjiang Province in the past 20 years, discusses the new growth points of economic development in Heilongjiang Province and puts forward corresponding suggestions for the adjustment of different industrial structures in Heilongjiang Province, and finally extends the general rules of the development of post-industrialization in the world. This article believes that it is necessary to adjust the structure of the first, second, and third industries reasonably based on different historical and natural endowments, contemporary backgrounds, and other practical factors, in accordance with local conditions, circumstances, and each with its own emphasis. At the same time, it also requires the support and inclination of government policies; Adapting industrial structure to local economic development while actively leading productivity and local economic development.
The Relationship between Urbanization and Consumption Upgrading of Rural Residents under the Sustainable Development: An Empirical Study Based on Mediation Effect and Threshold Effect
Authors: Le Xiaobing , Shao Xinxin , Gao Kuo
Published: May 2023

With the rapid development of urbanization, the overall consumption level of rural residents has been improved accordingly in China, and the consumption structure has gradually become perfect. However, in the process of urbanization, it is necessary to handle some practical problems in order to realize the sustainable development of consumption in rural areas. Under the concept of sustainable consumption, urbanization has become a new engine that drives rural residents’ consumption in China. The digital economy has injected new vitality to expand domestic demand as well. Therefore, whether consumption upgrading in rural areas is affected by urbanization and the digital economy is a topic worth studying. To discuss the relationship between urbanization, the digital economy and consumption levels in rural areas, this paper uses an intermediary effect model to test how urbanization promotes the consumption upgrading in rural regions with the digital economy as the intermediary variable and explores the threshold characteristics of urbanization. The results are as follows: urbanization significantly promotes the rural residents’ consumption upgrading, and there is regional heterogeneity. It improves the consumption optimization in the eastern and central regions, but not in the western region. The digital economy intermediates the relationship between urbanization and consumption optimization. Moreover, urbanization has a double threshold, and with the increase of the threshold value, the marginal effect of urbanization on rural residents’ consumption upgrading also increases gradually. China should seize the opportunities of the development of urbanization and the digital economy, constantly raise farmer income, and narrow the income gap between urban and rural area, so as to promote the sustainable development of consumption in rural areas.
Proposed Algorithm for the Optimisation of the Process of Generating the Geometry of Land Use/Soil Valuation Classes for Land Consolidation
Authors: Leń Przemysław , Maciąg Klaudia , Maciąg Michał , Wójcik-Leń Justyna , Kocur-Bera Katarzyna
Published: May 2023

Consolidation of land is one of the main procedures for optimising agrarian structures and creating a space for sustainable rural development. A specific feature of a land consolidation project is its complexity and multiple aspects. The considerable number of complex operations making up the whole procedure implies the necessity of using specialist technical tools to ensure effective surveys. The latest developments in technology are giving way to dedicated solutions that can optimise the working time and quality of the outcomes of respective tasks. This paper outlines a self-designed algorithm for generating the technical layer of land use/soil valuation classes based on layers of soil class contours and land use contours, which are obligatory elements of a digital cadastre database in Poland. The fully automated procedure, next to efficient conversion of spatial data, involves detailed verification of the correctness of input data and elimination of various errors. The tool’s deliverable is a set of data necessary for proceeding with selected elements of the land consolidation process, such as comparative estimates of land value and farmstead designs based on land value. The designed tool was implemented at the Subcarpathian Office of Land Surveying and Agricultural Areas in Rzeszów (Poland). The proposed solutions contributed to considerable improvement in the time devoted to performing selected tasks and the substantive correctness of the results.
Does Supervision Down to the Countryside Level Benefit Rural Public Goods Supply? Evidence on the Extent of Households’ Satisfaction with Public Goods from 2005 to 2019
Authors: Zheng Suwen , Ye Chunhui , Bai Yunli
Published: May 2023

This paper mainly studies the effect of village-level power supervision reform on the rural supply of public goods. In this paper, the panel data of 100 villages in five provinces of China from 2005 to 2019 are used to identify and analyze the impact of the supervision policy on the supply of rural public goods. The study adopted PSM-DID as the identification strategy to alleviate the endogenous problem of the model; it found that the supervision policy significantly improved the supply of public goods in villages, and increased the satisfaction of villagers with the village economic base and public social services. There is regional heterogeneity in the improvement effect of policy on public goods supply, which mainly reflects the regions with weak economic development. This policy mainly promotes the optimization of public goods supply by strengthening villagers’ public participation, and promoting the improvement of the current situation of public goods by restraining village cadres’ duty behaviors. It is also found that the coupling of clan power and village formal authority can inhibit the positive effects brought by the policy, and only in areas with strong clan power can the negative effects be mitigated. Moreover, there is an alternative relationship between the assessment pressure of village cadres and the supervision force sent to the countryside, which will form a situation of excessive supervision and inhibit the optimization of village public goods. The conclusion of this paper provides empirical support for the view that “top-down external institutional supervision and bottom-up internal democratic supervision should be effectively integrated” in the theory of village power supervision.
Environmental Sustainability and Territorial Competitiveness: A Comparison between Italian Provinces
Authors: Pane Paolo
Published: May 2023

The emergence of globalisation and the removal of obstacles between markets have heightened rivalry between territorial areas. To have a competitive advantage, the regions have to be unique. As one of the tactics used to boost their reputation on a territorial level, territories are progressively adopting environmental policies for sustainable and shared prosperity. Indeed, effective management of urban growth depends heavily on sustainable development. In this regard, the literature occasionally refers to the “green branding” of cities, a strategy that makes use of environmental aspects to boost the allure of metropolitan environments. There is currently little consensus in the literature on the measuring of environmental performance, and no statistical study has been done to confirm the efficacy of these measures in terms of territorial competitiveness. Therefore, it is important to determine whether there is a relationship between a territory’s level of sustainability and competitiveness in Italy. According to the statistical analysis of the Italian provinces, the Northeast, Northwest, Centre, and Islands are the four geographical regions with the highest average scores. This unquestionably indicates a basic comprehension and supports the notion that there is a relationship between the two variables. However, it also serves as a warning about how geographical disparities in Italy represent a major issue affecting the most diverse sectors. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic problem has drastically altered consumer demands and goals, leading consumers to seek out more sustainable travel and cities that are designed with citizens’ requirements in mind. It will therefore become more and more important to research how public and private administrators, as well as policy makers, react to these changes.
Clues in the Data: The Role of Education in Adopting Technology That Enhances Sustainable Lifestyle Choices
Authors: Komenda Sara , Monroe Martha C.
Published: May 2023

Smart technology has the potential to help people practice more sustainable behaviors, but many barriers still exist. Understanding the motivations of people who use these devices can help educators develop more effective programs to ensure people reach appropriate conservation and sustainability goals. As a case in point, we analyzed surveys from owners of smart irrigation controllers to understand their motives for using the device on residential landscaping. Factor analysis resulted in six categories of survey questions: interest in landscaping maintenance, interest in technology, interest in conservation, interest in saving money, interest in the aesthetic benefits of landscaping, and concerns about technology. Cluster analysis divided the respondents into four distinct groups based on their factor scores. Characteristics and motivations differed for each cluster and ranged from those who enjoy landscaping activities and use the device to grow healthier plants, to those who dislike landscaping chores and see the device as a tool to make these tasks easier. All clusters had an interest in conservation, but it was not the highest motivating factor for any group. We discuss ways in which educators can utilize the cluster profiles to better communicate and support each group in achieving water conservation. This process could be used for other types of technology that make it easier to achieve a more sustainable lifestyle.
Constructing Operational Methods for the Continuous Development of Design Concepts
Authors: Tang Chieh-Hsin
Published: May 2023

The main focus of this article is to understand the process of how students develop design concepts. By analyzing the process of developing design concepts, and through the results of questionnaires and statistical analysis, key factors are identified to provide teachers with ways to assist students in developing sustainable design concepts in the future. The specific results are as follows. (1) Logical thinking and language expression are necessary factors to achieve excellent design concepts. To achieve this goal, sufficient case analysis, a well-equipped studio space and adequate teaching hours are indispensable. (2) General university students prefer to use models to interpret concepts, while technology university students prefer to use images. (3) In teaching, materials courses and construction courses must be moderately integrated with design courses so that teachers can provide students with more assistance in design teaching. (4) When students verbally explain their design concepts, it can easily lead to misunderstandings by the teacher. (5) About the SDGs, this suggests that there is still room for improvement in promoting them, and it is something that should be taken into account in teaching. Therefore, it is necessary to discuss real design work to gradually improve students’ design skills.
Modeling of Queue Detector Location at Signalized Roundabouts via VISSIM Micro-Simulation Software in Amman City, Jordan
Authors: Assolie Amani Abdallah , Sukor Nur Sabahiah Abdul , Khliefat Ibrahim , Abd Manan Teh Sabariah Binti
Published: May 2023

The growing number of vehicles in Jordan has contributed to traffic congestion, particularly at roundabouts. Roundabouts deflect high volumes of traffic flow. To improve the performance of roundabouts, it is necessary to consider the impact of all components on traffic conditions, especially delay, queue length, and level of service (LOS), to reduce congestion and enhance efficiency and sustainability, etc. This study aims to (a) identify the optimal queue detector locations on all approaches at two selected roundabouts in Amman, Jordan, using micro-simulation (VISSIM) supported by programming (Python) software, and (b) validate the simulated models with the best LOS. Traffic and geometric data of roundabouts (Prince Faisal Bin al-Hussein, fifth; and Prince Rashid Bin Hassan, sixth roundabouts) were used for simulation purposes. The queue detector (across 15 distinct scenarios at various distances) and standard (base scenario, 50 m from the stop line) locations were assessed for optimal placement. The model validation was made based on all scenarios including signalized and non-signalized roundabouts. The best-case scenario for queue detector location was determined based on the highway capacity manual (HCM) criteria for measurement of effectiveness (MOE) at roundabouts. The optimal location was measured based on the duration of traffic delay (seconds), average queue length (m), and LOS. The optimal queue detector’s location was observed to be 97 m from the roundabout stop line. It can reduce the traffic delay (or speed up the traffic flow) by 85.25%. The average queue length can be reduced up to 76.76%. The LOS F status on the selected roundabouts can be improved to LOS D. Overall, the application of adaptive signal and queue detectors in appropriate locations at all roundabout approaches is crucial to improve imbalanced traffic flow while reducing delays.
Development of Air Ventilation Garments with Small Fan Panels to Improve Thermal Comfort
Authors: Zhao Mengmeng , Gao Chuansi , Wang Min
Published: May 2023

Air ventilation garments (AVGs) are reported to be effective in improving thermal comfort in hot environments in previous research. The purpose of this study was to develop AVGs with small fan panels and examine their cooling performance. Three AVGs equipped with more, much smaller sized ventilation fans were developed, including FFV (ten small fans all located on the front body), BBV (ten small fans all located on the back body), and FBV (six small fans located on the front body and four small fans located on the back body). Another garment, without ventilation fans but with the same structure and textile material, was made as a reference garment (CON). The cooling performance of the four garments was examined through subject trials in a moderately hot environment of 32 °C and 60% relative humidity. Simulated office work with 70 min of sedentary activity was performed. The results showed that the physiological indexes of the mean body skin temperature, the mean torso skin temperature, and the heart rate in the three AVG scenarios were significantly lower than those in the CON condition (p < 0.05). Thermal sensation, thermal comfort, and wetness sensation were also improved when wearing the three AVGs (p < 0.05). No significant difference was displayed among the three AVGs on the whole body and the whole torso (p > 0.05) due to the similarity of the air velocity created by the fan panels. A significant difference was found on the local torso skin, with FFV significantly reducing the chest and the belly skin temperature, and BBV significantly reducing the scapula and the lower back skin temperature (p < 0.05). This study indicates that the AVGs with the small fan panels were effective in reducing heat strain and improving thermal comfort, and thus are recommended for use in hot environments.
Prioritization of Off-Grid Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems for Residential Communities in China Considering Public Participation with Basic Uncertain Linguistic Information
Authors: Liu Limei , Chen Xinyun , Yang Yi , Yang Junfeng , Chen Jie
Published: May 2023

In recent years, the adoption of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (HRESs) is rapidly increasing globally due to their economic and environmental benefits. In order to ensure the smooth implementation of HRESs, it is important to systematically capture societal preferences. However, few studies focus on the effective integration of public opinion into energy planning decisions. In this study, a decision-making approach for public participation in HRES planning is proposed to optimize the configuration of off-grid HRESs. First, an HRES evaluation index system considering public participation was constructed; to address the situation where the public from different backgrounds may have limited and inconsistent understanding of indicators, the basic uncertain linguistic information (BULI) is introduced to express evaluations and associated reliability levels. The indicator weights were then determined through the evaluation of both the public and the expert opinions. Second, the BULI-EDAS decision approach was developed by extending the EDAS method to the BULI environment to optimize HRES planning. Finally, the proposed model was applied to identify the optimal configuration in rural China. The comparative analysis results show that the proposed method can avoid misunderstandings and facilitate realistic public judgments. The selected optimal plan has a standardized energy price of 0.126 USD/kWh and generates 45,305 kg CO2/year, resulting in the best overall performance. The proposed HRES planning method provides a practical approach for decision makers to conduct HRES planning in a public participation environment to promote clean energy transitions.
Colorado River (Argentina) Water Crisis Scenarios and Influence on Irrigation Water Quality Conditions
Authors: Trillini Mariano , Pierini Jorge Omar , Vallese Federico Danilo , Dunel Guerra Luciana , Pistonesi Marcelo Fabian
Published: May 2023

The characterization and evaluation of water quality in the Valle Bonaerense del Río Colorado (VBRC), Buenos Aires, Argentina, is necessary, given the immense importance of this region for sustaining the population livelihoods and maintaining the ecological balance, especially in the face of drought and climate change scenarios, and loss of crop production yields. This study evaluated the possible reuse of drainage canals from the perspective of their use for irrigation. Surface water samples were collected at four sampling sites during 2015–2021, one over the Colorado river entering the VBRC, and the remaining three drainage canals flow into the Atlantic Ocean. These physicochemical parameters were performed following the protocols proposed using standard methods: total dissolved solids, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, carbonates, bicarbonates, chlorides, sulfates and sodium adsorption ratio were analyzed and classified. The irrigation water quality index (IWQI), principal component analysis, hierarchy of classes analysis and statistical analysis were applied to the dataset. The general hydrochemistry of the VBRC river water indicates a slightly alkaline nature, with a mean pH value of 8.03, and the predominance order of the major ions follows the pattern of Na+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ > K+, and SO42− > Cl− > HCO3− + CO32− for the anions. For the IWQI, 88.06% of the samples analyzed were classified as safe water for irrigation, and a theoretical yield loss was estimated for crops considering the salinity variable, with vegetables showing the highest losses. The surface water from rivers increases the EC due to the decrease in its discharge because of the water crisis affecting Latin America. Water reuse could be useful for one of the three drainage canals. This study concludes that the reuse of drainage water (S2) has great potential as an adaptation strategy to address the water scarcity and climate change challenges in the Colorado river basin. The research highlights the importance of considering this alternative to achieve sustainable water management in the region. Moreover, the data obtained from the study can be used for making policy and resource management decisions. In view of the possible scenarios of low water flow and increases in the EC values, it is recommended to reorient agricultural production toward crops with higher tolerance to salinity as an alternative, to ensure the sustainability and viability of production in the basin.
Multi-Hazard Livelihood Security and Resilience of Lower Mekong Basin Communities
Authors: Pal Indrajit , Dhungana Ganesh , Baskota Ayush , Udmale Parmeshwar , Gadhawe Mayuri Ashokrao , Doydee Puvadol , Nguyen Tanh T. N. , Sophat Seak
Published: May 2023

The Lower Mekong Basin (LMB) is a subsidiary region of the Mekong River, with approximately 50 million people directly dependent on the river for livelihood and economic activities. However, communities in the region are increasingly exposed to multiple hazards that have significant direct and indirect impacts on their livelihoods. To implement efficient risk management strategies, it is important to understand the interlinkages between the different dimensions and factors that influence livelihood security and resilience in such communities. Through a literature review and expert workshop, this paper studies the multi-hazard scenario and impacts in the LMB region and the interlinkages between livelihoods and resilience in the LMB communities. The paper consolidates these findings and proposes a localized assessment framework that can be used by stakeholders in decision-making process. Floods and droughts were identified as primary natural hazards, while a multi-hazard assessment highlighted a wide spatial variation in the hazard levels across the region. The primary impacts of such hazards are on the agricultural communities dependent on the basin’s ecosystem and natural resources for their livelihoods. A holistic framework has been proposed to measure the multi-hazard livelihood security and resilience in LMB communities that can be used by government authorities and development partners in planning and implementing mitigation and preparedness activities to manage and reducing the risk of hazards.
Shear Strength and Energy Evolution of Granite under Real-Time Temperature
Authors: Guo Jizhe , Feng Zengchao , Li Xuecheng
Published: May 2023

The shear mechanical properties of rock under high temperature and high pressure are key issues in geothermal energy development. In order to explore the variation in shear mechanical properties of rock under high temperature and high pressure, the shear experiments of granite under real-time temperatures and normal stresses were carried out using the servo-controlled true triaxial experimental system for rock shearing testing and acoustic emission technology. The results show the following trends: (1) the peak shear strength of granite increases slightly first and then decreases sharply with real-time temperature, with 200 °C considered as the threshold temperature for the peak shear strength of granite. When the temperature is constant, the shear strength of granite increases linearly with the increase in normal stress. (2) Before 200 °C, the shear modulus of granite decreases slowly with the increase in temperature and decreases rapidly after 200 °C. The shear modulus always increases linearly with the increase in normal stress. (3) Under the coupling effect of real-time high temperature and normal stress, the cumulative acoustic emission energy released during the shear deformation of granite gradually decreases with temperature, and the main failure mode of granite gradually changes from tensile failure to shear failure.
Agrochemical Input Behavior and Cleaner Production Adoption Willingness of Farmers in Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei, China
Authors: Chuan Limin , Zhao Jiang , Zhao Jingjuan , Shan Nan , Zhang Hui , Wang Ailing
Published: May 2023

Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei is an important agricultural production area in China, and farmers’ agrochemical input behavior directly affects the risk of agricultural non-point source pollution and the effect of green agricultural development. Based on a questionnaire survey and field interview data, this study investigated the agrochemical input behavior of farmers in Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei, and analyzed its influencing factors. Using the Probit model, we carried out an empirical study on farmers’ willingness to invest in cleaner production of agrochemicals from four aspects: farmers’ characteristics, agricultural input, environmental awareness and technical cognition. The results showed that the kinds of fertilizer were mainly compound fertilizer, urea and organic fertilizer, and the fertilization method was mainly surface spreading, accounting for 50.6% of the total surveys; the number of agrochemicals was determined chiefly by agricultural sellers, accounting for 55.5%. The proportion of the guidance from technical departments in Beijing was higher than that of Tianjin and Hebei. The first influencing factor for farmers’ behavior towards agrochemical input was the pursuit of high yield and high profit, accounting for 24.9%, 22.6% and 26.0%, respectively. The guidance of relevant technical departments still did not fully cover the use of agrochemicals. The study also found that factors such as the price of farming materials, the price of agricultural products, family income, farmland facilities, government propaganda, technical training and subsidies all impacted the agrochemical input behavior. Pre-production technical guidance and farmers’ awareness significantly affected the willingness to adopt cleaner production. Technical training was helpful to improve farmers’ willingness to participate actively, and enhancing the pertinence of training played an important role in the adoption of cleaner production technology. In conclusion, the influencing factors of farmers’ agrochemical input in Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei were complex, and the scientific application level still needs to be improved. This paper finally discusses and puts forward some countermeasures and suggestions for agrochemical reduction and efficiency improvement.
Study of Mobile Source Pollutants Based on Multi-Source Data Fusion: A Case Study of Zibo City, China
Authors: Zheng Chunyan , Liu Ruiyuan , Zhang Shuai , Li Jiaojiao , Ma Pengcheng , Guo Dong , Yao Ronghan , Guo Cong , Li Jianlong , Sui Yongjia
Published: May 2023

The primary pollutants emitted from mobile sources have become one of the main sources of urban air pollution. In this study, the primary pollutants CO, HC, NOx and PM from mobile sources in Zibo city, China are studied. Firstly, the localized mobile-source pollutant emission factors are corrected using vehicle emission experiments; secondly, multi-source data fusion is performed using road network data, road traffic data, air quality and meteorological data; then, the corrected pollutant emission factors and multi-source data are used to construct a localized emission measurement model and dispersion simulation model, visualize the emission distribution and propose residual concentration correction to accurately obtain the pollutant sharing rate. The results show that the pollutant emission trends are highly coupled with the distribution of urban residents’ working hours. Based on the localized dispersion model used to analyze the pollutant traceability at air monitoring stations, the emission sharing rate of NOx is the largest, and according to the analysis of the changing trend of mobile-source emission sharing rate, the mobile source pollutants in Zibo are mainly influenced by pollutant emissions from road motor vehicles. This study provides data support and a theoretical basis for the management of the transportation industry to carry out exhaust gas control of motor vehicles and non-road mobile machinery and to make decisions related to improving the air environment (delineating the scope of low emission zones).
E-Tourism for Sustainable Development through Alternative Tourism Activities
Authors: Koliouska Christiana , Andreopoulou Zacharoula
Published: May 2023

E-tourism refers to the broader integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in the tourism sector and infrastructure. In this context, tourists can choose the travel destination, use price comparison sites and buy online tickets at low prices, while tourism entrepreneurs enhance their marketing strategies in response to the increasing demands of modern tourism Over the last few decades, alternative tourism has gained considerable interest among tourists and enterprises in the tourism industry. At the same time, it acts as an enabler and a facilitator of sustainable development. This paper presents an overview of the current situation of content characteristics of the websites of enterprises involved with alternative tourism services in Greece. The websites are evaluated according to 30 characteristics through multicriteria method. Furthermore, the final ranking of websites is presented to identify the most successful strategies, as well as the website that need improvements. According to the results, an e-tourism website model is suggested for the entrepreneurs to exploit the opportunities that arise in the digitalization transformation of the tourism industry.
Moderating Effect of Strategic Planning on the Relationship between Career Path Planning and Job Performance
Authors: Ali Ali Ahmed Ateeq , AlZgool Mahmoud , Alzoraiki Mohammed , Milhem Marwan , Al-Absy Mujeeb Saif Mohsen
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to assess the moderating effect of strategic planning on the relationship between career path planning and job performance among employees in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Kingdom of Bahrain. A convenience sample consisting of 249 participants was selected. The study used SPSS and Smart-PLS to analyze the data. The findings of the study revealed that strategic planning and career path planning affected SME employees’ performance. In contrast, it was found that strategic planning substantially moderated the relationship between career path planning and job performance. Moreover, the results showed that SP and CPP had the greatest impact on JP. Based on the obtained findings, it is shown that the proposed hypotheses are accepted. The study revealed the impact of the moderator on the relationship between CPP and JP. The results of this study may serve as a guide for the owners and managers of enterprises and decision makers who aim to develop strategic planning and enhance employee performance.
On Instabilities Caused by Magnetic Background Fields
Authors: Bordag Michael
Published: May 2023

We review instabilities that appear from the coupling of spin-one fields to a magnetic background in a non-Abelian theory. Such coupling results, due to asymptotic freedom in a negative quantum, contribute to the effective potential. In QCD, the Savvidy vacuum results. However, due to the tachyonic mode, such a state is not stable, and the question about the true ground state of QCD is still open. In the electroweak model, the corresponding instability is postponed to very large background fields and may be of relevance in the early universe, at best. We start with an introduction to the topic and display the necessary formulas and methods. Then, we consider the one-particle spectra of the fields in a magnetic background and the related Euler–Heisenberg Lagrangians. In addition, we discuss the potential instability connected with the anomalous moment of the electron. The main part is on the quantum correction to the energy in non-Abelian fields, including massive ones. Here, the focus is on so-called electroweak magnetism and the search for a classical solution of the field equations and their approximations by a lattice of flux tubes. Finally, we review approaches with non-homogeneous background fields and the background of an A0-field.
Adoption of AI-Based Technologies in the Food Supplement Industry: An Italian Start-Up Case Study
Authors: Rapa Mattia , Ciano Salvatore , Orsini Francesca , Tullo Maria Giulia , Giannetti Vanessa , Boccacci Mariani Maurizio
Published: May 2023

Although many industries have already implemented technologies based on artificial intelligence (AI) in their business, the effects of new digital solutions on customer satisfaction are not yet fully known. This study aimed to evaluate the AI-based advice implemented by an Italian start-up operating in food supplements to support customer choices. The evaluation utilized the Delphi method and a questionnaire survey. This research aimed to provide companies wishing to use AI with a preliminary evaluation criterion for improving customer satisfaction through digital approaches. Research findings indicate that AI-based advice can improve customer perspectives, such as customer satisfaction and loyalty, by providing a value-added business service, diversified for each product category. However, some mistakes have emerged, which may still be a limitation in the use of AI-based advice. Therefore, this study presents an innovative approach to evaluate the performance of digital advice in traditional sectors such as the food industry.
Impact of Pb Toxicity on the Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Lamellidens marginalis: Growth Metrics, Hemocyto-Immunology, and Histological Alterations in Gill, Kidney, and Muscle Tissue
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Amzad , Chowdhury Toma , Chowdhury Gourab , Schneider Petra , Hussain Monayem , Das Bipresh , Iqbal Mohammed Mahbub
Published: May 2023

Pb is one of the most extensively used harmful heavy metals in Bangladesh, and its occurrence in waters affects aquatic organisms significantly. The tropical pearl mussel, Lamellidens marginalis, was exposed to different concentrations (T1 21.93 mgL−1, T2 43.86 mgL−1, and T3 87.72 mgL−1) of Pb(NO3)2 and was evaluated against a control C 0 mgL−1 of Pb(NO3)2, followed by a 96 h acute toxicity test. The LC50 value was recorded as 219.32 mgL−1. The physicochemical parameters were documented regularly for each treatment unit. The values of % SGR, shell weight, soft tissue wet weight, and weight gain remained statistically higher for the control group in comparison with the treatment. No mortality was noted for control units, while a gradually decreased survival rate was recorded for the different treatment groups. Fulton’s condition factor was recorded as highest in the control and lowest in the T3 unit, while the condition indices did not vary between the control and treatment groups. The hemocyte was accounted as maximum in the control and T1, while minimum in T2 and T3. The serum lysosomal parameters also followed a similar pattern, and a significantly low level of lysosomal membrane stability, and serum lysosome activity was noted for T3 and T2 units in comparison to the control group. The histology of the gill, kidney, and muscle was well structured in the control group, while distinct pathologies were observed in the gill, kidney, and muscle tissue of different treatment groups. The quantitative comparison revealed that the intensity of pathological alteration increased as the dosage of Pb increased. The current study, therefore, indicated that intrusion of Pb(NO3)2 in the living medium significantly alters growth performance and hemocyte counts, and chronic toxicity induces histomorphological abnormalities in vital organs.
Multicolor Visual Detection of Deoxynivalenol in Grain Based on Magnetic Immunoassay and Enzymatic Etching of Plasmonic Gold Nanobipyramids
Authors: Guo Rui , Ji Yue , Chen Jinnan , Ye Jin , Ni Baoxia , Li Li , Yang Yongtan
Published: May 2023

In this study, a multicolor visual method based on a magnetic immunoassay and enzyme-induced gold nanobipyramids (Au NBPs) etching was developed for deoxynivalenol (DON) detection. The magnetic beads modified with high affinity DON monoclonal antibodies were used as a carrier for target enrichment and signal transformation and the Au NBPs with excellent plasmonic optical properties were served as enzymatic etching substrates. The oxidation state TMB, which was generated through catalysis of horseradish peroxidase (HRP), induced the etching of plasmonic Au NBPs, resulting in the longitudinal peak blue-shift of local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). Correspondingly, Au NBPs with various aspect ratios displayed a variety of individual colors which were visualized by the naked eye. The LSPR peak shift was linearly related to the DON concentration in the range of 0~2000 ng/mL and the detection limit was 57.93 ng/mL. The recovery for naturally contaminated wheat and maize at different concentrations ranged from 93.7% to 105.7% with a good relative standard deviation below 11.8%. Through observing the color change in Au NBPs, samples with overproof DON could be screened preliminarily by the naked eye. The proposed method has the potential to be applied in on-site rapid screening of mycotoxins in grain. In addition, the current multicolor visual method only used for the simultaneous detection of multiple mycotoxins is in urgent need of a breakthrough to overcome the limitation of single mycotoxin detection.
Design and Immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 DNA Vaccine Encoding RBD-PVXCP Fusion Protein
Authors: Dormeshkin Dmitri , Katsin Mikalai , Stegantseva Maria , Golenchenko Sergey , Shapira Michail , Dubovik Simon , Lutskovich Dzmitry , Kavaleuski Anton , Meleshko Alexander
Published: May 2023

The potential of immune-evasive mutation accumulation in the SARS-CoV-2 virus has led to its rapid spread, causing over 600 million confirmed cases and more than 6.5 million confirmed deaths. The huge demand for the rapid development and deployment of low-cost and effective vaccines against emerging variants has renewed interest in DNA vaccine technology. Here, we report the rapid generation and immunological evaluation of novel DNA vaccine candidates against the Wuhan-Hu-1 and Omicron variants based on the RBD protein fused with the Potato virus X coat protein (PVXCP). The delivery of DNA vaccines using electroporation in a two-dose regimen induced high-antibody titers and profound cellular responses in mice. The antibody titers induced against the Omicron variant of the vaccine were sufficient for effective protection against both Omicron and Wuhan-Hu-1 virus infections. The PVXCP protein in the vaccine construct shifted the immune response to the favorable Th1-like type and provided the oligomerization of RBD-PVXCP protein. Naked DNA delivery by needle-free injection allowed us to achieve antibody titers comparable with mRNA-LNP delivery in rabbits. These data identify the RBD-PVXCP DNA vaccine platform as a promising solution for robust and effective SARS-CoV-2 protection, supporting further translational study.
Degron Pathways and Leishmaniasis: Debating Potential Roles of Leishmania spp. Proteases Activity on Guiding Hosts Immune Response and Their Relevance to the Development of Vaccines
Authors: Oliveira Adriane Silva , Aredes-Riguetti Lara Mata , Pereira Bernardo Acácio Santini , Alves Carlos Roberto , Souza-Silva Franklin
Published: May 2023

Degrons are short peptide sequences that signalize target sites for protein degradation by proteases. Herein, we bring forth the discussion on degrons present in proteins related to the immune system of Mus musculus that are potential targets for cysteine and serine proteases of Leishmania spp. and their possible roles on host immune regulation by parasites. The Merops database was used to identify protease substrates and proteases sequence motifs, while MAST/MEME Suite was applied to find degron motifs in murine cytokines (IFN-y, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-17) and transcription factors (NF-kappaB, STAT-1, AP-1, CREB, and BACH2). STRING tool was used to construct an interaction network for the immune factors and SWISS-MODEL server to generate three-dimensional models of proteins. In silico assays confirm the occurrence of degrons in the selected immune response factors. Further analyses were conducted only in those with resolved three-dimensional structures. The predicted interaction network of degron-containing M. musculus proteins shows the possibility that the specific activity of parasite proteases could interfere with the trend of Th1/Th2 immune responses. Data suggest that degrons may play a role in the immune responses in leishmaniases as targets for parasite proteases activity, directing the degradation of specific immune-related factors.
DNA Vaccines for Epidemic Preparedness: SARS-CoV-2 and Beyond
Authors: Maslow Joel N. , Kwon Ijoo , Kudchodkar Sagar B. , Kane Deborah , Tadesse Amha , Lee Hyojin , Park Young K. , Muthumani Kar , Roberts Christine C.
Published: May 2023

We highlight the significant progress in developing DNA vaccines during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Specifically, we provide a comprehensive review of the DNA vaccines that have progressed to Phase 2 testing or beyond, including those that have received authorization for use. DNA vaccines have significant advantages with regard to the rapidity of production, thermostability, safety profile, and cellular immune responses. Based on user needs and cost, we compare the three devices used in the SARS-CoV-2 clinical trials. Of the three devices, the GeneDerm suction device offers numerous benefits, particularly for international vaccination campaigns. As such, DNA vaccines represent a promising option for future pandemics.
Evaluation of a Phytogenic Feed Supplement Containing Carvacrol and Limonene on Sheep Performance and Parasitological Status on a Hungarian Milking Sheep Farm
Authors: Varga-Visi Éva , Nagy Gábor , Csivincsik Ágnes , Tóth Tamás
Published: May 2023

There is currently worldwide interest in phytogenic feed supplements (PFSs) because they can lead to improved animal production. The scope of the present study was to observe the impact of a feed supplement containing carvacrol (CAR) and limonene (LIM) on the performance and parasitological status of sheep. The feed supplement decreased the plasma levels of β-hydroxybutyrate (p < 0.001), triglycerides (p = 0.014), nonesterified fatty acids (p = 0.021), and fructosamine (p = 0.002) in lactating ewes after 42 days of supplementation, while the average live weight (p = 0.002) and average daily weight gain (p = 0.001) of their twin suckling lambs increased significantly by the end of the study. In another experiment, fattening lambs fed the same supplement showed a decrease in fecal egg number of gastrointestinal nematodes (p = 0.02) but no differences in live weight, average daily gain, or mean number of Haemonchus contortus nematodes in the abomasum. The results highlighted that the inclusion of carvacrol and limonene in the feed of lactating ewes effectively increased the weight gain of the suckling lambs, presumably due to the ewes’ improved energy, but further studies are needed to elucidate the effects of carvacrol and limonene against gastrointestinal parasites.
Hydrodynamics and Heat Mass Transfer in Two-Phase Dispersed Flows in Pipes or Ducts
Authors: Pakhomov Maksim A. , Lobanov Pavel D.
Published: May 2023

Two-phase gas-liquid and gas-dispersed flows are frequently encountered in energy, nuclear, chemical, geothermal, oil and gas and refrigeration industries [...]
Driving Forces and Influences of Flood Diversion on Discharge Fraction and Peak Water Levels at an H-Shaped Compound River Node in the Pearl River Delta, South China
Authors: Fang Yongjun , Wang Xianwei , Ren Jie , Liu Huan , Wang Ya
Published: May 2023

The SiXianJiao (SXJ) is the first-order exchange node of the West River and the North River and redistributes water (mass) to the downstream river network in the Pearl River Delta (PRD), South China. The lateral SXJ waterway plays a critical role in flow (mass) diversion between the West River and the North River, forming a unique H-shaped compound river node. Previous studies mainly focused on Y-shaped bifurcation and confluence nodes, and there is a lack of research on deltaic H-shaped river nodes. This study established the Delft3D model to investigate the driving forces and influences of flood diversion at the SXJ node. The results showed that the H-shaped SXJ river node was usually in hydraulic equilibrium but was often disturbed by large water level differences between the two rivers, due to unbalanced and asynchronous upstream flood waves. The large water level differences drove mutual flood diversion through the lateral SXJ waterway, which synchronized the downstream discharge and reduced the peak water levels (flood hazards), resulting in similar water levels or hydraulic equilibrium in the two rivers. There exists a critical flow fraction—about 75.9% (West River)—at which the incoming flow from both rivers presents similar water levels at the SXJ node, resulting in little flood diversion. Above the threshold, the flood water will divert from the West River to the North River with a maximum rate of −11,900 m3/s, accounting for 20% of the West River, reducing the peak water level up to 1.48 m at Makou. Below the threshold, the flood water will divert from the North River to the West River with a maximum rate of 11,990 m3/s, accounting for 55% of the North River, reducing the peak water level up to 6.63 m at Sanshui. Meanwhile, the discharge fraction at downstream Makou (Sanshui) maintained a near-constant value during individual floods and fluctuated around 76.6% (23.4%). This critical discharge fraction and the analytical approach are of significance in flood-risk management and hydraulic engineering design in the PRD. The concept model of the H-shaped compound river node clearly elucidates the flood diversion mechanism via the lateral SXJ waterway and may work for other similar river nodes as well.