bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Dual-Mode CMOS Power Amplifier with an External Power Amplifier Driver Using 40 nm CMOS for Narrowband Internet-of-Things Applications
Authors: Ahn Hyunjin , Oh Kyutaek , Choi Se-Eun , Son Dong-Hee , Nam Ilku , Lim Kyoohyun , Lee Ockgoo
Published: January 2024

The narrowband Internet-of-Things (NB-IoT) has been developed to provide low-power, wide-area IoT applications. The efficiency of a power amplifier (PA) in a transmitter is crucial for a longer battery lifetime, satisfying the requirements for output power and linearity. In addition, the design of an internal complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) PA is typically required when considering commercial applications to include the operation of an optional external PA. This paper presents a dual-mode CMOS PA with an external PA driver for NB-IoT applications. The proposed PA supports an external PA mode without degrading the performances of output power, linearity, and stability. In the operation of an external PA mode, the PA provides a sufficient gain to drive an external PA. A parallel-combined transistor method is adopted for a dual-mode operation and a third-order intermodulation distortion (IMD3) cancellation. The proposed CMOS PA with an external PA driver was implemented using 40 nm-CMOS technology. The PA achieves a gain of 20.4 dB, a saturated output power of 28.8 dBm, and a power-added efficiency (PAE) of 57.8% in high-power (HP) mode at 920 MHz. With an NB-IoT signal (200 kHz π/4-differential quadrature phase shift keying (DQPSK)), the proposed PA achieves 24.2 dBm output power (Pout) with a 31.0% PAE, while satisfying −45 dBc adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR). More than 80% of the current consumption at 12 dBm Pout could be saved compared to that in HP mode when the proposed PA operates in low-power (LP) mode. The implemented dual-mode CMOS PA provides high linear output power with high efficiency, while supporting an external PA mode. The proposed PA is a good candidate for NB-IoT applications.
Colossal Magnetoresistance in Layered Diluted Magnetic Semiconductor Rb(Zn,Li,Mn)4As3 Single Crystals
Authors: Peng Yi , Shi Luchuan , Zhao Guoqiang , Zhang Jun , Zhao Jianfa , Wang Xiancheng , Deng Zheng , Jin Changqing
Published: January 2024

Diluted magnetic semiconductors (DMSs) with tunable ferromagnetism are among the most promising materials for fabricating spintronic devices. Some DMS systems have sizeable magnetoresistances that can further extend their applications. Here, we report a new DMS Rb(Zn1−x−yLiyMnx)4As3 with a quasi-two-dimensional structure showing sizeable anisotropies in its ferromagnetism and transverse magnetoresistance (MR). With proper charge and spin doping, single crystals of the DMS display Curie temperatures up to 24 K. Analysis of the critical behavior via Arrott plots confirms the long-range ferromagnetic ordering in the Rb(Zn1−x−yLiyMnx)4As3 single crystals. We observed remarkable intrinsic MR effects in the single crystals (i.e., a positive MR of 85% at 0.4 T and a colossal negative MR of −93% at 7 T).
Nutraceuticals and Pain Disorders of the Gut–Brain Interaction in Infants and Children: A Narrative Review and Practical Insights
Authors: Salvatore Silvia , Carlino Mariagrazia , Sestito Simona , Concolino Daniela , Agosti Massimo , Pensabene Licia
Published: January 2024

Different nutraceuticals are often considered by parents of infants and children with abdominal pain and disorders of the gut–brain interaction. Herb extracts and natural compounds have long been used in traditional medicine, but clinical pediatric trials are very limited. This narrative review based on relevant studies identified through a search of the literature in Pubmed and Medline updated to October 2023 focused on the effect of nutraceuticals in infantile colic, functional abdominal pain, and irritable bowel syndrome in children and adolescents. Significant reductions in colic episodes and crying time were reported in two studies on fennel (seeds oil or tea), in three studies on different multiple herbal extracts (all including fennel), in one study on Mentha piperita, and in at least two double-blind randomized controlled studies on Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12 (108 CFU/day for at least 21 days) in breast-fed infants. Compared to a placebo, in children with functional abdominal pain or irritable bowel syndrome, a significant reduction in pain was reported in two studies supplementing peppermint oil capsules or psyllium fibers, and in one study on corn fiber cookies, partial hydrolyzed guar gum, a specific multiple herbal extract (STW-5), or vitamin D supplementation. To date, there is moderate-certainty evidence with a weak grade of recommendation on Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (108 CFU/day) in reducing pain intensity in children with functional abdominal pain and for Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (1–3 × 109 CFU twice daily) in reducing pain frequency and intensity in children with IBS. Further large and well-designed pediatric studies are needed to prove the efficacy and safety of different herbal extracts and prolonged use of studied products in infants and children with pain disorders of the gut–brain interaction.
Best Nursing Practice: Safe and Inclusive Healthcare Environments for Transgender People: A Systematic Review
Authors: García-Acosta Jesús Manuel , Castro-Molina Francisco Javier , Fernández-Martínez Alfredo David , Delgado-Reyes Airam , Castellano-Fuenmayor María Andreína
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to review the scope of the existing scientific literature on creating safe and inclusive healthcare environments for transgender people and provide an overview of the resources and nursing skills required to do so. (2) Methods: With the research question in mind, an exploratory search of six databases was conducted to identify all relevant primary studies. After screening and selection of articles based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 41 articles were included and reviewed. (3) Results: The results were classified under four headings: the training of health professionals, the creation of safe spaces, the nurse as facilitator, and best care practice. Most of the evidence indicates that it is essential for nurses and other healthcare staff to be trained in specific skills to provide comprehensive, high-quality care to transgender people; however, there is a lack of material and human resources to do so. (4) Conclusions: The trans-inclusive care competent nurse should use neutral language that respects the person’s preferred name and pronouns in a safe healthcare environment that offers and ensures warmth, respect, and inclusivity in the care provided. This study was registered with the Open Science Framework (OSF) on 9 January 2024 (osf.io/rpj6a).
Activity of the Di-Substituted Urea-Derived Compound I-17 in Leishmania In Vitro Infections
Authors: dos Santos José Vitorino , Medina Jorge Mansur , Dias Teixeira Karina Luiza , Agostinho Daniel Marcos Julio , Chorev Michael , Diotallevi Aurora , Galluzzi Luca , Aktas Bertal Huseyin , Gazos Lopes Ulisses
Published: January 2024

Protein synthesis has been a very rich target for developing drugs to control prokaryotic and eukaryotic pathogens. Despite the development of new drug formulations, treating human cutaneous and visceral Leishmaniasis still needs significant improvements due to the considerable side effects and low adherence associated with the current treatment regimen. In this work, we show that the di-substituted urea-derived compounds I-17 and 3m are effective in inhibiting the promastigote growth of different Leishmania species and reducing the macrophage intracellular load of amastigotes of the Leishmania (L.) amazonensis and L. major species, in addition to exhibiting low macrophage cytotoxicity. We also show a potential immunomodulatory effect of I-17 and 3m in infected macrophages, which exhibited increased expression of inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS2) and production of Nitric Oxide (NO). Our data indicate that I-17, 3m, and their analogs may be helpful in developing new drugs for treating leishmaniasis.
Metatranscriptomic Sequencing of Medically Important Mosquitoes Reveals Extensive Diversity of RNA Viruses and Other Microbial Communities in Western Australia
Authors: Lamichhane Binit , Brockway Craig , Evasco Kimberly , Nicholson Jay , Neville Peter J. , Levy Avram , Smith David , Imrie Allison
Published: January 2024

Mosquitoes harbor a wide diversity of microorganisms, including viruses that are human pathogens, or that are insect specific. We used metatranscriptomics, an unbiased high-throughput molecular approach, to describe the composition of viral and other microbial communities in six medically important mosquito species from across Western Australia: Aedes vigilax, Culex annulirostris, Cx. australicus, Cx. globocoxitus, Cx. pipiens biotype molestus, and Cx. quinquefasciatus. We identified 42 viral species, including 13 novel viruses, from 19 families. Culex mosquitoes exhibited a significantly higher diversity of viruses than Aedes mosquitoes, and no virus was shared between the two genera. Comparison of mosquito populations revealed a heterogenous distribution of viruses between geographical regions and between closely related species, suggesting that geography and host species may play a role in shaping virome composition. We also detected bacterial and parasitic microorganisms, among which Wolbachia bacteria were detected in three members of the Cx. pipiens complex, Cx. australicus, Cx. pipiens biotype molestus, and Cx. quinquefasciatus. In summary, our unbiased metatranscriptomics approach provides important insights into viral and other microbial diversity in Western Australian mosquitoes that vector medically important viruses.
Exploring the Clinical Applications of Lemongrass Essential Oil: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kusuma Ikhwan Yuda , Perdana Muhammad Iqbal , Vágvölgyi Csaba , Csupor Dezső , Takó Miklós
Published: January 2024

Lemongrass is a medicinal plant that produces essential oil with a variety of therapeutic properties. Although lemongrass essential oil (LGEO) is promising in clinical applications, the existing knowledge on the efficacy and safety of LGEO remains limited. This scoping review aimed to identify, summarize, and synthesize existing literature related to the clinical applications of LGEO to provide an overview of its potential therapeutic benefits for patients. Three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus) were used following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines to find articles published between 1 January 2013, and 1 November 2022. A total of 671 records were identified and 8 articles were included in this scoping review. The majority of patients received oromucosal and topical treatment. The results of the studies suggest that LGEO might be a useful tool in the treatment of periodontitis, gingivitis and oral malodour, with similar efficacy to chlorhexidine (anti-gingivitis effect) and doxycycline (periodontitis). Additionally, LGEO has the potential for treating pityriasis versicolor and preventing skin aging and may have anti-dandruff effects. These findings not only underscore the diverse clinical potential of LGEO but also emphasize its comparable efficacy to established treatments. Further research is imperative to comprehensively evaluate LGEO’s effectiveness, safety, mechanisms of action, potential interactions with other medications, and its long-term tolerability across diverse populations.
Microbial Infections and Wound Healing: Medicinal-Chemistry and Technological Based Approaches
Authors: Cacciatore Ivana , Marinelli Lisa
Published: January 2024

Microbial infections represent a significant global health challenge that impacts all populations [...]
Identification of Triazolopyrimidinyl Scaffold SARS-CoV-2 Papain-Like Protease (PLpro) Inhibitor
Authors: Kralj Sebastjan , Jukič Marko , Bahun Miha , Kranjc Luka , Kolarič Anja , Hodošček Milan , Ulrih Nataša Poklar , Bren Urban
Published: January 2024

The global impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its companion disease, COVID-19, has reminded us of the importance of basic coronaviral research. In this study, a comprehensive approach using molecular docking, in vitro assays, and molecular dynamics simulations was applied to identify potential inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease (PLpro), a key and underexplored viral enzyme target. A focused protease inhibitor library was initially created and molecular docking was performed using CmDock software (v0.2.0), resulting in the selection of hit compounds for in vitro testing on the isolated enzyme. Among them, compound 372 exhibited promising inhibitory properties against PLpro, with an IC50 value of 82 ± 34 μM. The compound also displayed a new triazolopyrimidinyl scaffold not yet represented within protease inhibitors. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated the favorable binding properties of compound 372. Structural analysis highlighted its key interactions with PLpro, and we stress its potential for further optimization. Moreover, besides compound 372 as a candidate for PLpro inhibitor development, this study elaborates on the PLpro binding site dynamics and provides a valuable contribution for further efforts in pan-coronaviral PLpro inhibitor development.
The Invasive Mechanisms of the Noxious Alien Plant Species Bidens pilosa
Authors: Kato-Noguchi Hisashi , Kurniadie Denny
Published: January 2024

Bidens pilosa L. is native to tropical America and has widely naturized from tropical to warm temperate regions in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and North and South America. The species has infested a wide range of habitats such as grasslands, forests, wetlands, streamlines, coastal areas, pasture, plantations, agricultural fields, roadsides, and railway sides and has become a noxious invasive weed species. B. pilosa forms thick monospecific stands, quickly expands, and threatens the indigenous plant species and crop production. It is also involved in pathogen transmission as a vector. The species was reported to have (1) a high growth ability, producing several generations in a year; (2) a high achene production rate; (3) different biotypes of cypselae, differently germinating given the time and condition; (4) a high adaptative ability to various environmental conditions; (5) an ability to alter the microbial community, including mutualism with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi; and (6) defense functions against natural enemies and allelopathy. The species produces several potential allelochemicals such as palmitic acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid, salycilic acid, quercetin, α-pinene, and limonene and compounds involved in the defense functions such as 1-phenylhepta-1,3,5-trine, 5-phenyl-2-(1-propynyl)-thiophene, 5-actoxy-2-phenylethinyl-thiophene, and icthyothereol acetate. These characteristics of B. pilosa may contribute to the naturalization and invasiveness of the species in the introduced ranges. This is the first review article focusing on the invasive mechanisms of the species.
The Effect of Polyamide 11 on the Thermal Stability and Light Transmittance of Silicone-Based Thermoplastic Vulcanizates
Authors: Iz Muhammet , Lee Jinhyok , Choi Myungchan , Yun Yumi , Bae Jongwoo
Published: January 2024

The effect of polyamide 11 (PA11) on the thermal stability and light transmittance properties of silicone-based thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) has been investigated. The blends were prepared through a dynamic vulcanization process by adding 15, 30, and 45 wt% PA11 to the silicon-based TPVs, respectively. The effect of PA11 on the dispersion of silicone rubber in the TPVs after dynamic vulcanization was characterized by a scanning electron microscope (SEM), the thermal stability of the compounds was evaluated through the changes in mechanical performance in the thermo-oxidative aging process, and the light transmittance of TPVs was measured by a haze meter. The results showed that adding PA11 to silicone-based TPVs caused a decrease in the size of the silicone rubber particles after dynamic vulcanization, resulting in improved dispersion. Due to this, by increasing the compatibility between the segments through silicone’s effective dispersion, the amount of light absorption was reduced, and the amount of light transmittance was increased. Finally, according to the results of the thermal aging test, it was found that TPVs with 30 and 45 wt% PA11, respectively, showed outstanding thermal resistance after aging at 160 °C and 168 h and did not melt down.
The Development and Performance of Knitted Cool Fabric Based on Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene
Authors: Zhao Yajie , Dong Zhijia , He Haijun , Cong Honglian
Published: January 2024

In order to withstand high-temperature environments, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers with cooling properties are being increasingly used in personal thermal management textiles during the summer. However, there is relatively little research on its combination with knitting. In this paper, we combine UHMWPE fiber and knitting structure to investigate the impact of varying UHMWPE fiber content and different knitting structures on the heat and humidity comfort as well as the cooling properties of fabrics. For this purpose, five kinds of different proportions of UHMWPE and polyamide yarn preparation, as well as five kinds of knitted tissue structures based on woven tissue were designed to weave 25 knitted fabrics. The air permeability, moisture permeability, moisture absorption and humidity conduction, thermal property, and contact cool feeling property of the fabrics were tested. Then, orthogonal analysis and correlation analysis were used to statistically evaluate the properties of the fabrics statistically. The results show that as the UHMWPE content increases, the air permeability, heat conductivity, and contact cool feeling property of the fabrics improve. The moisture permeability, moisture absorption and humidity conductivity of fabrics containing UHMWPE are superior to those containing only polyamide. The air permeability, moisture permeability, and thermal conductivity of the fabrics formed by the tuck plating organization are superior to those of the flat needle plating and float wire plating organization. The fabric formed by 2 separate 2 float wire organization has the best moisture absorption, humidity conduction, contact cool feeling property.
Effect of Starch Plasticization on Morphological, Mechanical, Crystalline, Thermal, and Optical Behavior of Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)/Thermoplastic Starch Composite Films
Authors: He Xiaoyan , Zhang Fuhong , Li Congcong , Ding Weiwei , Jin Yuanyuan , Tang Lisheng , Huang Ran
Published: January 2024

Starches plasticized with glycerol/citric acid/stearic acid and tributyl 2-acetylcitrate (ATBC), respectively, were processed with poly (butylene adipate-Co-terephthalate (PBAT) via extrusion and a film-blown process. All the composite films were determined for morphology, mechanical, thermal stability, crystalline, and optical properties. Results show that the most improved morphology was in the 30% glycerol plasticized PBAT/thermoplastic starch (TPS) composite films, characterized by the smallest and narrowest distribution of TPS particle sizes and a more uniform dispersion of TPS particles. However, the water absorption of PBAT/TPS composite films plasticized with glycerol surpassed that observed with ATBC as a plasticizer. Mechanical properties indicated insufficient plasticization of the starch crystal structure when using 10% ATBC, 20% ATBC, and 20% glycerol as plasticizers, leading to poor compatibility between PBAT and TPS. This resulted in stress concentration points under external forces, adversely affecting the mechanical properties of the composites. All PBAT/TPS composite films exhibited a negative impact on the initial thermal decomposition temperature compared to PBAT. Additionally, the haze value of PBAT/TPS composite films exceeded 96%, while pure PBAT had a haze value of 47.42%. Films plasticized with 10% ATBC, 20% ATBC, and 20% glycerol displayed lower transmittance values in the visible light region. The increased transmittance of films plasticized with 30% glycerol further demonstrated their superior plasticizing effect compared to other PBAT/TPS composite films. This study provides a simple and feasible method for preparing low-cost PBAT composites, and their extensions are expected to further replace general-purpose plastics in daily applications.
Ancient Feminine Archetypes in Shi‘i Islam
Authors: Inloes Amina
Published: January 2024

This paper explores archetypes of femininity associated with Fāṭimah al-Zahrāʾ in Twelver Shi‘i hagiography through consideration of a broad range of archetypes found in the study of narrative and mythology. Many archetypes associated with goddesses of antiquity recur in portrayals of Fāṭimah al-Zahrāʾ, suggesting either cultural influence or universal archetypes. For instance, Fāṭimah embodies a youthful, innocent, virginal goddess; Jung’s light and dark mother figure; and the lamenting goddess. Similar archetypes are projected onto other sacred women in Shi‘ism, such as Zaynab bint ʿAlī and Fāṭimah al-Maʿṣūmah. However, other feminine archetypes are absent, some are sublimated onto male figures, and some are banalized through translating the esoteric into the exoteric. This leaves gaps in the narrative models available to faithful women. Furthermore, embodying archetypes like lamenting and suffering may be undesirable. While reformist portrayals of Fāṭimah have attempted to present her as a model for female activism, historical and hagiographical archetypes of Fāṭimah inherently clash and are difficult to disentangle. Nonetheless, considering how hagiography differs from history can help understand how the mythic does not always translate well to the mundane.
Charisma in the Middle Ages: Theories, Practices, and Representations
Authors: Aurell Jaume , Aurell Martin , Herrero Montserrat
Published: January 2024

Charisma—a special gift from God that enables some believers to perform prodigious feats such as prophecy, preaching, pardon, and miracles, for the good of the community—was originally conceptualized by St [...]
A Dilemma between Politics and Evangelism: S. Wells Williams’ Controversial Translation of the “Toleration Article” in the Sino–U.S. Treaty of Tientsin
Authors: Shuai Siyang
Published: January 2024

The Sino–U.S. Treaty of Tientsin (1858), for the first time in history, included an article to ensure the toleration of Protestantism in China, i.e., the Toleration Article. The man behind the article was S. Wells Williams (1812–1884), an interpreter of the U.S. Legation and a former missionary, who negotiated with Chinese officials directly. Williams produced the Chinese version of the clause and its official English translation which led to controversies, for it was deemed unfaithful and humiliating to the Christian communities. This paper revisits this important episode in the history of Protestantism in China. Using first-hand archival materials, it reveals how Williams was forced to “mistranslate” the article in order to satisfy both parties. It further discusses the reasons behind the missionaries’ criticism, which placed Williams in the center of clashes between religious and political interests. Through Williams’ case, the paper foregrounds the crucial roles and difficult situations of missionary translators in diplomatic incidents that shaped the history of Christianity in China. More importantly, it highlights the conflicting interests and ideas in early Sino–U.S. diplomacy and shows how missionary translators worked to mediate the dilemma between evangelism and politics in 19th-century China.
The Simulation and Optimization of the Tetrafluoroethylene Rectification Process
Authors: Yang Limin , Chen Yue , Wang Jinzhi , Luo Yongzhen , Zhou Pengfei , Zhang Xiaolai
Published: January 2024

In the R22 (chlorodifuoromethane) steam-cracking process, which is used to produce a TFE (tetrafluoroethylene) monomer, distillation is employed to separate the high-purity TFE monomer from the cracked gas generated during this procedure. Traditionally, this distillation process is carried out using five towers. In this study, the traditional five-tower distillation method was transformed into a four-tower distillation method through the Aspen Plus simulation software, and this process was simulated and optimized. Meanwhile, a double-effect distillation process was designed for the transformed four-tower distillation process. The transformed distillation process not only meets the requirements of 99.999% purity for the TFE monomer and 99.99% purity for R22 recycling, but it also reduces the footprint by eliminating one distillation tower and saves 112.9002 kW of tower load, thus reducing the operating costs. This research provides valuable guidance for practical production.
Interrogative Suggestibility and Ability to Give Resistant Responses in Children with Mild Intellectual Disabilities and Borderline Intellectual Functioning
Authors: Giostra Valeria , Vagni Monia
Published: January 2024

Children with intellectual disabilities can be victims of crimes but are generally deemed less reliable in the forensic context than children without disabilities. Their deficits may cause inaccurate recall, greater memory errors, and greater suggestive vulnerability. The aim of the present study is to verify the effects of intellectual abilities on recall tasks, levels of suggestibility, vulnerability to negative social pressure, and Resistant Behavioural Responses (RBR). The study involved 120 children aged 7–16 years who were administered the GSS2 (1997) and Raven Matrices. Forty children had a diagnosis of mild intellectual disability (MID), 40 had borderline intellectual functioning (BIF), and 40 were typically developing peers. Children with MID and BIF showed more errors in distortions, inventions, and confabulations at the recall task and higher levels of suggestibility.Low IQs reduced the ability of source monitoring and led to less resistant responses to misleading questions. IQ affected resistant responses both at the first and second suggestive interview, reducing both source monitoring capabilities and the ability to manage social pressure. Age may impact the ability to provide resistant responses but only in the first suggestive interview (Yield 1), which depends more on the maturity of cognitive processes involved in interrogative suggestibility.
Preventative Strategies to Curb School Violence: A Case Study of Selected Schools in Hhohho District of Eswatini, Mbabane
Authors: Sibisi Nomathemba Nomakhosi , Sibisi Nonhle Tracey , Mpofu Zandile Faith
Published: January 2024

The violence occurring in schools is a concerning phenomenon with pervasive implications for learners, teachers, and communities. Its impact culminates in fear, stress, and a reduced sense of safety among learners and teachers. Its consequences extend beyond physical harm, thus affecting an individual’s mental well-being. This study provides a precis of the comprehensive nature of school violence and preventative strategies meant to curb this phenomenon. This study employed a case study design located within the interpretative paradigm. A qualitative approach was used to delve into the perceptions of learners and educators on the nature of school violence and measures that could be adopted to prevent it. Thirty (n = 30) participants involving ten learners (n = 10), ten parents (n = 10), and ten educators (n = 10) were purposively sampled. Ten learners participated in focus-group discussions, with five learners representing each school located in Mbabane, Eswatini (Imbabane Central and Mater Dolorosa High Schools). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 teachers and 10 parents (5 parents and 5 teachers from each school). A lack of effective methods of disciplining learners was identified as a cause of bullying and aggressive behaviours among learners. The findings reflect that violence is deeply rooted in harmful social norms, with corporal punishment being widely advocated by the participants. The findings indicate a crucial need for adopting an integrated and collaborative approach to the development and implementation of effective preventative measures.
Leveraging Circular Economy Metrics for Data-Driven Forecasting of Solid Waste Production in Europe
Authors: Chen Chun-Chih , Chang Yu-Shing
Published: January 2024

This study integrates circular economy (CE) metrics with machine learning techniques, specifically XGBoost and Shapley additive explanations (SHAP), to forecast municipal solid waste (MSW) in the EU, analyzing data from 2010 to 2020. It examines key economic and consumption indicators, including GDP per capita and energy consumption, along with CE metrics such as resource productivity, the municipal waste recycling rate, and the circular material use rate. The model demonstrates high predictive accuracy, with an R2 of 99% for in-sample data and 75% for out-of-sample data. The results indicate a significant correlation between a higher GDP per capita and an increased gross municipal waste per capita (GMWp). Conversely, lower energy consumption is associated with reduced GMWp. Notably, the circular material use rate emerges as a crucial factor for sustainability, with increased use significantly decreasing the GMWp. In contrast, a higher resource productivity correlates with an increased GMWp, suggesting complex implications for waste generation. The recycling rate, while impactful, shows a more modest effect compared to the other factors. The culminating insights from this study emphasize the need for sustainable, integrated waste management and support the adoption of circular economy-aligned policies. They underscore the efficacy of merging CE metrics with advanced predictive models to bolster regional sustainability efforts.
Barriers to Solar PV Adoption in Developing Countries: Multiple Regression and Analytical Hierarchy Process Approach
Authors: Mustafa Mansoor , Malik Muhammad Omer Farooq , Maqsoom Ahsen
Published: January 2024

The globe is transitioning from traditional methods of electricity generation to renewable resources in order to achieve sustainable goals. Solar energy is a promising and abundant renewable resource that shows great potential as a viable alternative to traditional energy. Furthermore, the production of electricity from solar energy is the most cost-effective compared to other kinds of renewable energy. Nevertheless, the execution of solar initiatives in underdeveloped nations is encountering several obstacles. Identifying the most significant obstacles in the execution of solar projects is of utmost importance. This study uses a linear regression model (LRM) and an analytical hierarchical process (AHP) to determine the main barriers to the implementation of renewable energy projects in a developing economy, i.e., Pakistan. By conducting an extensive review of the relevant literature and consulting with experts, the most significant categories of obstacles were determined. A survey based on 429 responses was collected from the participants working at solar projects. Subsequently, the responses were subjected to processing and analysis using the relative importance index (RII), AHP, and linear regression modeling techniques. The linear regression analysis revealed several significant variables that hinder progress, including financial conditions, policies, technological awareness, institutional support, social and environmental awareness, market stability, and other miscellaneous factors. The AHP analysis revealed the key factors that have the greatest impact, which include effective policies, financial stability, technological expertise, institutional support, market stability, various aspects, and social and environmental awareness. The study’s conclusions are beneficial for all stakeholders and project managers in enhancing the project management of solar initiatives. It would also facilitate prompt decision-making regarding policy formulation and implementation.
Do Wealth and Market Access Explain Inconsistent Relationships between Crop Diversity and Dietary Diversity? Evidence from 10 Sub-Saharan African Countries
Authors: Curtin Isabel Juliet , Tobin Daniel , Reynolds Travis
Published: January 2024

Despite the robust literature base that has explored links between household crop diversity and children’s dietary diversity, evidence continues to yield mixed results regarding the efficacy of crop diversity in improving childhood dietary outcomes. Given the variance in the association between agrobiodiversity and dietary diversity, we identified wealth and distance to markets as potential factors that may impact these relationships. Through a series of Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regressions, this study examines the associations between crop diversity and dietary diversity among households at different levels of wealth in 10 sub-Saharan African countries. Drawing on the Integrated Public Use Microdata Series and Demographic and Health Surveys system, we find that the significance and direction of the association between crop diversity (as proxied using the Simpsons Diversity Index) and children’s dietary diversity (as measured using the Household Dietary Diversity Score) vary by wealth quintile across countries and households: in richer households, crop diversity has a negative effect on dietary diversity, and in poorer households, there is no significant effect. This study indicates the need to understand contextual factors that impact the relationship between agricultural diversity and dietary diversity to inform development policies.
Grill and Chill: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Environmental Impacts of Private Household Barbecuing in Germany
Authors: Geng Shaoran , Dorling Kevin Christopher , Prenzel Tobias Manuel , Albrecht Stefan
Published: January 2024

Rising environmental consciousness has prompted increased scrutiny of the environmental impact of everyday activities, such as barbecuing—a popular summertime activity in Germany. This study aimed to explore the environmental impacts of three grilling techniques, charcoal (including reusable types such as swivel, round, and kettle grills, as well as disposable charcoal grills), gas, and electric grills, utilizing a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach including the manufacturing of grills, consumption of energy sources and grilling ingredients, as well as the end-of-life of the grills. Five impact categories were considered: global warming potential (GWP), acidification potential (AP), eutrophication potential (EP), abiotic depletion potential fossil (ADP), and land use (LU) according to the CML2016 and ReCiPe 2016 methodology. This study found that a barbeque event for four people results in GWP, AP, EP, ADP, and LU values ranging from 18 to 20 kg CO2-eq., 174 to 179 g SO2-eq., 166 to 167 g PO4-eq., 102 to 138 MJ, and 36 to 38 m2 annual crop-eq., respectively, across different types of grills. Furthermore, the ingredients proved to be the most significant contributor, surpassing 70% in all impact categories. Among the three types of grills, the electric grill emerged as the most environmentally friendly, while the disposable grill had the greatest environmental impact across the majority of categories. Lastly, the environmental impacts of varying consumer behaviors were evaluated to potentially assist consumers in adopting more sustainable grilling practices.
Suburban Futures, Density and Amenity: Soft Densification and Incremental Planning for Regeneration
Authors: Glackin Stephen , Moglia Magnus , White Marcus
Published: January 2024

This article explores practical aspects of the compact city agenda as it applies to the ongoing densification of car-dependent suburbs, focusing on Melbourne, Australia. While the idea of compact cities has widespread policy support globally, debate continues regarding the negotiation of compact urban form and its implications for issues like overcrowding, tree canopy, waterways, urban heat, and so forth. Irrespective of the debate, Australian cities are experiencing rapid urban infill, with all areas becoming denser. Some areas of strategic attention afford master planning and planning forethought; however, most of the land in these cities, and at least half of the dwellings being redeveloped, has suburban form, with little or no strategic planning consideration, despite doubling and, in some cases, tripling population density into the future. Significantly, many areas are or will soon achieve population densities that can support vibrant commercial centers, but with little capacity or interest in top-down planning for adding necessary amenities and services. This article shows how, with minimal effort, planning authorities could subtly alter land use planning to allow incremental, but planned, growth of commercial areas, create the destinations the suburbs need to make them vibrant, and deliver less car-dependent local centers.
Complex Real-Time Monitoring and Decision-Making Assistance System Based on Hybrid Forecasting Module and Social Network Analysis
Authors: Fan Henghao , Li Hongmin , Gu Xiaoyang , Ren Zhongqiu
Published: January 2024

Timely short-term spatial air quality forecasting is essential for monitoring and prevention in urban agglomerations, providing a new perspective on joint air pollution prevention. However, a single model on air pollution forecasting or spatial correlation analysis is insufficient to meet the strong demand. Thus, this paper proposed a complex real-time monitoring and decision-making assistance system, using a hybrid forecasting module and social network analysis. Firstly, before an accurate forecasting module was constructed, text sentiment analysis and a strategy based on multiple feature selection methods and result fusion were introduced to data preprocessing. Subsequently, CNN-D-LSTM was proposed to improve the feature capture ability to make forecasting more accurate. Then, social network analysis was utilized to explore the spatial transporting characteristics, which could provide solutions to joint prevention and control in urban agglomerations. For experiment simulation, two comparative experiments were constructed for individual models and city cluster forecasting, in which the mean absolute error decreases to 7.8692 and the Pearson correlation coefficient is 0.9816. For overall spatial cluster forecasting, related experiments demonstrated that with appropriate cluster division, the Pearson correlation coefficient could be improved to nearly 0.99.
Towards ‘Vision-Zero’ in Road Traffic Fatalities: The Need for Reasonable Degrees of Automation to Complement Human Efforts in Driving Operation
Authors: Mofolasayo Adekunle
Published: January 2024

Human factors play a huge role in road traffic safety. Research has found that a huge proportion of traffic crashes occur due to some form of human error. Improving road user behavior has been the major strategy that has been emphasized for improving road traffic safety. Meanwhile, despite the training efforts, and testing for drivers, the global status of road traffic safety is alarming. This research highlights the seriousness of human factors on road traffic safety and provides actionable strategies to greatly reduce the negative impact of human factors on road traffic safety. Motor vehicle safety data that were made available online by the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics were reviewed to evaluate the severity of traffic collisions. To evaluate the extent of human factors in motor vehicle traffic fatalities, data for Canadian motor vehicle traffic collision statistics were reviewed. The study confirms that human factors (such as driver distraction, fatigue, driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol etc.) play a huge role in road traffic fatalities. The need for a reasonable degree of automation to help reduce the impacts of human factors on road safety and recommendations aimed at providing widespread support for a reasonable degree of automation systems in driving tasks are presented. Actionable strategies that can be implemented by policymakers to reduce global road traffic fatalities are also presented.
Species of the Western Palaearctic Genus Tetralonia Spinola, 1838 (Hymenoptera, Apidae) with Atypical Pollen Hosts, with a Key to the pollinosa-Group, Description of New Species, and Neotype Designation for Apis malvae Rossi, 1790
Authors: Dorchin Achik , Michez Denis
Published: January 2024

The long-horn bee genus Tetralonia consists of 35 Western Palaearctic species that are associated mostly with the family Asteraceae as host plants. A minority of the species are, however, exclusively associated with other host plants that have particularly large pollen grains, such as those in the plant families Caprifoliaceae, Malvaceae, and Onagraceae. This work presents a taxonomic account and morphological description of the assemblages of Tetralonia species with atypical (non-Asteraceae) host plants. It includes a key to the pollinosa-group, which contains most of the species, a description of three regionally restricted new species, namely T. eoacinctella Dorchin sp. nov., T. epilobii Dorchin sp. nov., and T. stellipilis Dorchin sp. nov., a lectotype designation for Eucera cinctella Saunders, 1908 [=Tetralonia cinctella (Saunders, 1908)], and a neotype designation for Apis malvae Rossi, 1790 [=Tetralonia malvae (Rossi, 1790)]. In addition, the name Eucera macroglossa Illiger, 1806 is confirmed as a synonym of Apis malvae Rossi, 1790; Tetralonia macroglossa ssp. xanthopyga Alfken, 1936 is officially placed in synonymy with Apis malvae Rossi, 1790; and Macrocera confusa Pérez, 1902 is listed as a doubtful synonym of Tetralonia scabiosae Mocsàry, 1879 (syn. nov.).
Tribute to Dr. Judith G. Levin (1934–2023)
Authors: Musier-Forsyth Karin , Rein Alan , Freed Eric O.
Published: January 2024

Dr. Judith G. Levin passed away in Teaneck, NJ, USA, on 8 December 2023 [...]
A Weighted Overlay Analysis for Assessing Urban Flood Risks in Arid Lands: A Case Study of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alharbi Talal
Published: January 2024

Urban flooding poses a significant problem in arid regions, where unusual rainfall events can lead to disastrous consequences. This study used geographic information systems (GIS) to identify and predict potential flood risk zones in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia. A comprehensive flood risk map was created by integrating various datasets, including digital elevation models (DEM), lithology, precipitation patterns, slope, and drainage density. Through a weighted overlay analysis, Riyadh was segmented into zones with different levels of flood susceptibility, ranging from low to very high risk. The study area spans 905 km2. Of this total area, 32% is at a low risk of flooding, while 31%, 24%, and 12% of the area are at a moderate, high, and very high risk of flooding, respectively. The findings of the study were validated through field surveys conducted before and after recent rainfall events. These validation efforts corroborated the high-risk areas predicted by the model, thereby ensuring the reliability of the map for future urban planning and risk mitigation strategies.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in women of reproductive age: a systematic review of local formularies
Authors: Lovegrove Elizabeth , Maidwell-Smith Alice , Stuart Beth , Santer Miriam
Published: January 2024

Background

Depression is the second most common chronic condition affecting women of reproductive age; 23.4% of women enter pregnancy with depression and use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in pregnancy is often necessary for maternal wellbeing. However, SSRI use during pregnancy can cause congenital malformations, postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). In UK primary care, prescribing formularies are one medium by which prescribers are provided with local medicines advice.

Aim

To review all local prescribing formularies with respect to prescribing SSRIs in women of reproductive age, during pregnancy, and during breastfeeding.

Design & setting

A systematic review of prescribing formularies in England and Wales.

Method

A systematic keyword search of all clinical commissioning group and Integrated Care Board websites in England and Local Health Board websites in Wales was undertaken between December 2021–22 to identify prescribing formularies. Data were extracted on prescribing guidance for SSRIs.

Results

Seventy-four prescribing formularies were reviewed. Of these, 14.9% (
n
= 11/74) provided links to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency guidance on congenital abnormalities associated with SSRIs, 28.4% (
n
= 21/74) provided links to guidance on PPH risk, and 1.4% (
n
= 1/74) provided links to guidance on PPHN. Specific local guidance was given on SSRI prescribing for women of reproductive age, during pregnancy, and during breastfeeding in 12.2% (
n
= 9/74), 23.0% (
n
= 17/74), and 21.6% (
n
= 16/74) of formularies, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that prescribers may be poorly informed by local formularies about the risks of SSRI use around pregnancy. This could place babies at increased risk of unintentional SSRI exposure.
El juego como recurso para el desarrollo de competencias matemáticas
Authors: Mendoza Suyo Ana Bertha
Published: January 2024

Ante la preocupación de los bajos niveles de logros alcanzados por los estudiantes de primaria en resolución de problemas, el presente artículo tiene como objetivo describir la influencia del juego como recurso para el desarrollo de las competencias matemáticas para mejorar los aprendizajes. La metodología empleada corresponde a un enfoque cuantitativo, con un diseño cuasi experimental. Se utilizó la técnica evaluativa, con un instrumento para poder tomar la prueba, con la cual, se obtuvieron el nivel de aprendizaje de los estudiantes. El instrumento se validó mediante juicio de expertos, demostrando confiabilidad. La muestra estuvo conformada por 50 estudiantes de un total de 120 del mismo grado. Al comparar el pre test y pos test del grupo experimental, se obtuvo como resultado una diferencia del 80% en logro esperado; indicando una mejora de aprendizaje. De esta manera, se concluyó que el juego, influye en el desarrollo de habilidades matemáticas en estudiantes de primaria.
Competencias digitales y rendimiento académico en los estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Salguero Alcala Ginger Kimberly , Benites Zuñiga José Luis , Salguero Alcala Alicia Geraldine , Orosco León Omar Eduardo , Orosco Toribio Eduardo Gottardo , Vega Vilca Carlos Sixto
Published: January 2024

Las competencias digitales son las habilidades tecnológicas que tienen un impacto en el desarrollo educativo; por ello, es importante el uso de diversas estrategias digitales para que los estudiantes muestren un desenvolvimiento en su rendimiento académico. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la relación de las competencias digitales y el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes universitarios. La metodología de investigación fue de enfoque cuantitativo, diseño no experimental, nivel correlacional. La población fue de 300 estudiantes universitarios; mientras que la muestra fue de 100 alumnos; el muestreo fue probabilístico por conveniencia. La técnica fue la encuesta; mientras que el instrumento fue el cuestionario para la variable competencia digital y las notas para el rendimiento académico. Como resultado se obtuvo una correlación positiva perfecta entre las variables estudiadas. De ello se concluye que cuando las competencias digitales son aplicadas de forma eficiente, los estudiantes evidencian un rendimiento académico adecuado.