bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical Reinforcement of ABS with Optimized Nano Titanium Nitride Content for Material Extrusion 3D Printing
Authors: Vidakis Nectarios , Mangelis Panagiotis , Petousis Markos , Mountakis Nikolaos , Papadakis Vassilis , Moutsopoulou Amalia , Tsikritzis Dimitris
Published: February 2023

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) nanocomposites were developed using Material Extrusion (MEX) Additive Manufacturing (AM) and Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) methods. A range of mechanical tests was conducted on the produced 3D-printed structures to investigate the effect of Titanium Nitride (TiN) nanoparticles on the mechanical response of thermoplastic polymers. Detailed morphological characterization of the produced filaments and 3D-printed specimens was carried out using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). High-magnification images revealed a direct impact of the TiN concentration on the surface characteristics of the nanocomposites, indicating a strong correlation with their mechanical performance. The chemical compositions of the raw and nanocomposite materials were thoroughly investigated by conducting Raman and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) measurements. Most of the mechanical properties were improved with the inclusion of TiN nanoparticles with a content of 6 wt. % to reach the optimum mechanical response overall. ABS/TiN 6 wt. % exhibits remarkable increases in flexural modulus of elasticity (42.3%) and toughness (54.0%) in comparison with pure ABS. The development of ABS/TiN nanocomposites with reinforced mechanical properties is a successful example that validates the feasibility and powerful abilities of MEX 3D printing in AM.
Light Conversion upon Photoexcitation of NaBiF4:Yb3+/Ho3+/Ce3+ Nanocrystalline Particles
Authors: Trave Enrico , Back Michele , Pollon Davide , Ambrosi Emmanuele , Puppulin Leonardo
Published: February 2023

NaBiF4 nanocrystalline particles were synthesized by means of a facile precipitation synthesis route to explore upconversion emission properties when doped with lanthanide ions. In particular, the incorporation of the Yb3+-Ho3+-Ce3+ triad with controlled ion concentration facilitates near-IR pumping conversion into visible light, with the possibility of color emission tuning depending on Ce3+ doping amount. We observed that introducing a Ce3+ content up to 20 at.% in NaBiF4:Yb3+/Ho3+, the chromaticity progressively turns from green for the Ce3+ undoped system to red. This is due to cross-relaxation mechanisms between Ho3+ and Ce3+ ions that influence the relative efficiency of the overall upconversion pathways, as discussed on the basis of a theoretical rate equation model. Furthermore, experimental results suggest that the photoexcitation of intra-4f Ho3+ transitions with light near the UV-visible edge can promote downconverted Yb3+ near-IR emission through quantum cutting triggered by Ho3+-Yb3+ energy transfer mechanisms. The present study evidences the potentiality of the developed NaBiF4 particles for applications that exploit lanthanide-based light frequency conversion and multicolor emission tuning.
Feasibility Study of Lactobacillus Plantarum 299v Probiotic Supplementation in an Urban Academic Facility among Diverse Pregnant Individuals
Authors: OjiNjideka Hemphill Nefertiti , Pezley Lacey , Steffen Alana , Elam Gloria , Kominiarek Michelle A. , Odoms-Young Angela , Kessee Nicollette , Hamm Alyshia , Tussing-Humphreys Lisa , Koenig Mary Dawn
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Despite iron intake recommendations, over a quarter of pregnant individuals have iron deficiency. Lactobacillus plantarum 299v enhances iron absorption in non-pregnant populations and may have positive effects in pregnancy among those with sufficient iron stores; however, no studies have evaluated the effect of Lp299v on maternal and neonatal iron status among individuals at risk for iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy. Thus, this study aims to assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of daily oral Lp299v maternal supplementation among diverse pregnant individuals. (2) Methods: In this double-blind placebo-controlled randomized supplementation feasibility study, participants were randomized to probiotic Lp299v + prenatal vitamin with iron or placebo + prenatal vitamin with iron from 15–20 weeks of gestation through delivery. (3) Results: Of the 20 enrolled and randomized participants, 58% (7/12) from the Lp299v group and 75% (6/8) from the placebo group were retained. Adherence to supplementation was 72% for Lp299v/placebo and 73% for the prenatal vitamin. A slower decline in maternal hematological and iron parameters across pregnancy was observed in the Lp299v group compared to placebo. (4) Conclusions: Lp299v may be a tolerable therapy during pregnancy and has the potential to affect maternal and neonatal hematological and iron status.
The Burnout of Nurses in Intensive Care Units and the Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lima Andreia , Moreira Maria Teresa , Fernandes Carla , Ferreira Maria Salomé , Ferreira Margarida , Teixeira Joana , Silva Mafalda , Parola Vítor , Coelho Adriana
Published: February 2023

Background: The world’s population changed with the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Burnout arises due to overwork, prolonged work periods, a lack of human and material resources, etc. Several studies have reported the incidence of burnout syndrome in nurses that work in intensive care units (ICUs). The aim was to map the scientific evidence related to nurses’ burnout in the ICU, namely the repercussions of SARS-CoV-2 in terms of burnout among nurses. Methods: A scoping review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology guidelines to search for and synthesise studies published between 2019 and 2022. The databases searched were MEDLINE, CINAHL, LILACS, SCOPUS, PsycINFO and OPEN GREY. A total of fourteen articles were eligible to be included. Results: A content analysis of the selected articles was carried out, and three categories emerged that corresponded to the dimensions of burnout according to Maslach and Leiter: emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation dimension and a lack of personal accomplishment. It was evident that nurses who worked in the ICU during the pandemic showed high levels of burnout. Conclusions: It is recommended that hospital administrations hire health professionals, namely nurses, as a strategic and operational management strategy to reduce the risk of increased burnout during pandemic outbreaks.
Generalised Parton Distributions in Continuum Schwinger Methods: Progresses, Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Mezrag Cédric
Published: February 2023

This paper review the modelling efforts regarding Generalised Parton Distributions (GPDs) using continuum techniques relying on Dyson–Schwinger and Bethe–Salpeter equations. The definition and main properties of the GPDs are first recalled. Then, we detail the strategies developed in the last decade in the meson sector, highlighting that observables connected to the pion GPDs may be measured at future colliders. We also highlight the challenges one will face when targeting baryons in the future.
mRNA Turnover Protein 4 Is Vital for Fungal Pathogenicity and Response to Oxidative Stress in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Yang Chenghuizi , Tang Lan , Qin Lei , Zhong Weiping , Tang Xianyu , Gong Xin , Xie Wenqi , Li Yifu , Xia Shitou
Published: February 2023

Ribosome assembly factors have been extensively studied in yeast, and their abnormalities may affect the assembly process of ribosomes and cause severe damage to cells. However, it is not clear whether mRNA turnover protein 4 (MRT4) functions in the fungal growth and pathogenicity in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Here, we identified the nucleus-located gene SsMRT4 using reverse genetics, and found that knockdown of SsMRT4 resulted in retard mycelia growth and complete loss of pathogenicity. Furthermore, mrt4 knockdown mutants showed almost no appressorium formation and oxalic acid production comparing to the wild-type and complementary strains. In addition, the abilities to ROS elimination and resistance to oxidative and osmotic stresses were also seriously compromised in mrt4 mutants. Overall, our study clarified the role of SsMRT4 in S. sclerotiorum, providing new insights into ribosome assembly in regulating pathogenicity and resistance to environmental stresses of fungi.
Developments in Non-Intercalating Bacterial Topoisomerase Inhibitors: Allosteric and ATPase Inhibitors of DNA Gyrase and Topoisomerase IV
Authors: Grossman Scott , Fishwick Colin W. G. , McPhillie Martin J.
Published: February 2023

Increases in antibiotic usage and antimicrobial resistance occurrence have caused a dramatic reduction in the effectiveness of many frontline antimicrobial treatments. Topoisomerase inhibitors including fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum antibiotics used to treat a range of infections, which stabilise a topoisomerase-DNA cleavage complex via intercalation of the bound DNA. However, these are subject to bacterial resistance, predominantly in the form of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the active site. Significant research has been undertaken searching for novel bioactive molecules capable of inhibiting bacterial topoisomerases at sites distal to the fluoroquinolone binding site. Notably, researchers have undertaken searches for anti-infective agents that can inhibit topoisomerases through alternate mechanisms. This review summarises work looking at the inhibition of topoisomerases predominantly through non-intercalating agents, including those acting at a novel allosteric site, ATPase domain inhibitors, and those offering unique binding modes and mechanisms of action.
Impact of Vitamin D Supplementation on the Clinical Outcomes and Epigenetic Markers in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Sarhan Neven , Essam Abou Warda Ahmed , Alsahali Saud , Alanazi Abdalla Salah
Published: February 2023

Vitamin D has recently been found to influence the renin-angiotensin system (RAS); it can reduce the effects of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASI) by decreasing plasma renin. This study examines the effect of vitamin D supplements on cardiac fibrosis markers, echocardiographic parameters, and epigenetic markers in patients with established acute coronary syndrome (ACS). It also looks at the incidence of vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms Apa I (rs7975232), Bsm I (rs1544410), Taq I (rs731236), and Fok I (rs2228570) and its association with the development of secondary major acute cardiovascular events (MACE) and heart failure (HF). A randomized controlled trial in which patients were divided into two groups was performed. Group 1 comprised of 125 ACS patients who received ACS standard therapy alone, while Group 2 consisted of 125 ACS patients who received ACS standard therapy plus vitamin D according to their vitamin D levels. Patients were monitored for 24 months to find subsequent MACE and HF. Vitamin D therapy for ACS patients resulted in a substantial decline in end systolic and end diastolic volumes (p = 0.0075 and 0.002, respectively), procollagen type III N-terminal peptide (PIIINP) and soluble ST2 levels (p = 0.007 and 0.001, respectively), as well as in ejection fraction and vitamin D level (p = 0.0001 and 0.008, respectively). In addition, vitamin D treatment was linked to a significant decline in the levels of noncoding RNA, such as mir361, lncRNA MEG3, and lncRNA Chaer (p = 2.9 × 10−4, 2.2 × 10−6, and 1.2 × 10−5, respectively). Furthermore, patients who suffered MACE had significantly higher levels of the Bsm I CC and Fok I GG genotypes (p = 4.8 × 10−4 and 0.003, respectively), while patients with HF had significantly higher levels of the Taq I AA genotype (p = 4.2 × 10−7). Supplementing ACS patients with vitamin D has been demonstrated to limit cardiac fibrosis and echocardiographic parameters, as well as epigenetic markers. Additionally, MACE and HF among ACS patients may be related to genetic variations among VDR gene polymorphisms.
Interplay of Hydropathy and Heterogeneous Diffusion in the Molecular Transport within Lamellar Lipid Mesophases
Authors: Bosch Antonio M. , Assenza Salvatore
Published: February 2023

Lipid mesophases are being intensively studied as potential candidates for drug-delivery purposes. Extensive experimental characterization has unveiled a wide palette of release features depending on the nature of the host lipids and of the guest molecule, as well as on the environmental conditions. However, only a few simulation works have addressed the matter, which hampers a solid rationalization of the richness of outcomes observed in experiments. Particularly, to date, there are no theoretical works addressing the impact of hydropathy on the transport of a molecule within lipid mesophases, despite the significant fraction of hydrophobic molecules among currently-available drugs. Similarly, the high heterogeneity of water mobility in the nanoscopic channels within lipid mesophases has also been neglected. To fill this gap, we introduce here a minimal model to account for these features in a lamellar geometry, and systematically study the role played by hydropathy and water–mobility heterogeneity by Brownian-dynamics simulations. We unveil a fine interplay between the presence of free-energy barriers, the affinity of the drug for the lipids, and the reduced mobility of water in determining the net molecular transport. More in general, our work is an instance of how multiscale simulations can be fruitfully employed to assist experiments in release systems based on lipid mesophases.
Antiviral Mechanism of Virucidal Sialic Acid Modified Cyclodextrin
Authors: Zhu Yong , Sysoev Andrey A. , Silva Paulo H. Jacob , Batista Marine , Stellacci Francesco
Published: February 2023

We have reported that CD-6′SLN [6-sialyllactosamine (6′SLN)-modified β-cyclodextrin (CD)] can be a potential anti-influenza drug because it irreversibly deactivates virions. Indeed, in vivo, CD-6′SLN improved mice survival in an H1N1 infection model even when administered 24 h post-infection. Although CD-6′SLN was designed to target the viral envelope protein hemagglutinin (HA), a natural receptor of 6′SLN, it remains unclear whether other targets exist. In this study, we confirm that CD-6′SLN inhibits the influenza virus through an extracellular mechanism by interacting with HA, but not with neuraminidase (NA), despite the latter also having a binding pocket for the sialyl group. We find that CD-6′SLN interacts with the viral envelope as it elicits the release of a fluorophore embedded in the membrane. Two similar compounds were designed to test separately the effect of 6′SLN and of the undecyl moiety that links the CD to 6′SLN. Neither showed any interaction with the membrane nor the irreversible viral inhibition (virucidal), confirming that both components are essential to membrane interaction and virucidal action. Unlike similar antiviral cyclodextrins developed against other viruses, CD-6′SLN was not able to decapsulate viral RNA. Our findings support that combining viral protein-specific epitopes with hydrophobic linkers provides a strategy for developing antiviral drugs with a virucidal mechanism.
Observation of Wavelength Tuning in a Mode-Locked Figure-9 Fiber Laser
Authors: Zhang Han , Xia Handing , Fan Mengqiu , Zheng Junwen , Li Jianbin , Tian Xiaocheng , Zhou Dandan , Huang Zhimeng , Zhang Fan , Zhang Rui , Peng Zhitao , Zhu Qihua
Published: February 2023

We demonstrate an all-PM Er-doped soliton mode-locked fiber oscillator based on the figure-9 configuration with a compact adjustable reflection-type non-reciprocal phase shifter. An analytical model based on the Jones matrix is established to simulate the wavelength tuning phenomenon. Experimentally, it is observed that the increase in pump power results in a significant redshift in the spectrum of output pulses. When the angle of the half-wave plate is rotated in one direction, the output spectrum is redshifted and then blueshifted successively. Good qualitative agreement is presented between the simulations and the experimental results. It is shown that the increase in pump power changes the nonlinear phase shift, which causes the redshift of the transmittance curves at the laser output port. In contrast, the rotation of wave plates not only changes the nonlinear phase shift difference, but also causes variations in linear phase bias and modulation depth. The changes in these parameters lead to the redshift and blueshift of the transmission curves, which enables wavelength tuning.
Modification of Sugar Profile and Ripening in Atemoya (Annona × atemoya Mabb.) Fruits through Copper Hydroxide Application
Authors: Cardoso Caroline P. , Campos Felipe G. , Napoleão Gabriel M. , Barzotto Gustavo R. , Campos Lauro P. , Ferreira Gisela , Boaro Carmen S. F.
Published: February 2023

Atemoya (Annona × atemoya Mabb.), a climacteric fruit of the Annonaceae family, is becoming increasingly popular due to its organoleptic and nutritional properties. Anthracnose, a fungus of the Colletotrichum genus, is one of the most serious diseases in orchards, causing significant damage if not controlled, so producers use phytosanitary products. The current study sought to investigate the quality of atemoya fruits after harvest in an orchard with anthracnose controlled by Cu(OH)2 application: T1—no Cu(OH)2, T2—7.8 mL Cu(OH)2 L1 divided into two applications, T3—15.6 mL Cu(OH)2 L1 divided into four, T4—8.0 mL Cu(OH)2 L1 divided into eight, and T5—13.0 mL Cu(OH)2 L1 divided into thirteen applications. The sugar profile of fruits was examined, as well as MDA, H2O2, and quality parameters such as pH, mass, soluble solids, titratable acidity, and maturation index. MDA, such as H2O2, can function as a signal molecule. Eight applications of 1.0 mL L-1 Cu(OH)2 resulted in increased concentrations of H2O2 and MDA, signal molecules involved in sugar modification profiles such as glucose, fructose, and trehalose. It also had a high titratable acidity, a lower maturation index, better fruit quality, and a longer shelf life.
Phytochemical Composition of the Fruit of Large Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton) Cultivars Grown in the Collection of the National Botanic Garden of Latvia
Authors: Šedbarė Rima , Jakštāne Ginta , Janulis Valdimaras
Published: February 2023

In this study, we conducted a qualitative and quantitative analysis of anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, flavonols and triterpenoids in samples of introduced and bred large cranberry fruits from the collection of the National Botanic Garden of Latvia. The highest total anthocyanin levels (8638–9316 µg/g) were detected in the fruit samples of the cranberry cultivars ‘Black Veil’, ‘Franclin’ and ‘Early Black’. The highest total proanthocyanidin levels (2775–3389 µg/g) were found in cranberries of cultivars ‘Kalnciema Agrā’, ‘Kalnciema Tumšā’, ‘Searles’, ‘Howes’, and ‘Kalnciema Ražīgā’. The highest levels of flavonol compounds (1373–1402 µg/g) were detected in cranberries of cultivars ‘Howes’, ‘Black Veil’ and ‘Salaspils Melnās’. The highest levels of triterpenoids (5292–5792 µg/g) were determined in cranberries of cultivars ‘Kalnciema Agrā’, ‘Septembra’, ‘Džbrūklene’ and ‘Early Black’. The results of our study allow for the estimation of differences in the content of secondary metabolites in the fruit samples of the studied cranberry cultivars and for the selection of promising cultivars for further introduction and cultivation in the climatic conditions of the Baltic countries. These results are also important for the selection of the most promising cranberry cultivars for the preparation of cranberry raw material, and the high-quality composition of plant material ensures the effectiveness of cranberry supplements and other cranberry preparations.
Bio-Based Polybenzoxazine–Cellulose Grafted Films: Material Fabrication and Properties
Authors: Periyasamy Thirukumaran , Asrafali Shakila Parveen , Kim Seong-Cheol
Published: February 2023

Despite the fact that amino cellulose (AC) is biodegradable, biocompatible, and has excellent film-forming properties, AC films have poor mechanical properties and are not thermally stable. An AC-based composite film prepared from AC and curcumin-stearylamine based benzoxazine (C-st) is reported in order to improve its performance and promote its application. As starting materials, C-st and AC were used to produce a C-st/AC composite film possessing a synergistic property through chemical cross-linking and hydrogen bonds. Two salient features with respect to the curing behavior were obtained. Firstly, the onset of curing was reduced to 163 °C when the benzoxazine monomer was synthesized from fully bio-based precursors (such as curcumin and stearylamine). Secondly, a synergistic effect in curing behavior was obtained by mixing C-st with AC. As a result of tensile tests and thermal analysis, the poly(C-st) benefited the composite films with pronounced mechanical and thermal properties, even at elevated temperatures. There was a 2.5-fold increase in tensile strength compared to the AC film, indicating that the composite films have the potential to be used for functional purposes. These poly(C-st)/AC films with improved mechanical and thermal properties have the ability to replace naturally occurring polymer films in film-related applications.
Photoluminescence Performance and Photocatalytic Activity of Modified Carbon Quantum Dots Derived from Pluronic F127
Authors: Liu Linlin , Zhang Yue , Cheng Youliang , Chen Jing , Li Fengjuan
Published: February 2023

The photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes in waste water using carbon quantum dots (CQDs) remains a hot topic due to the importance of environmental protection. However, identifying suitable carbon resources and successful surface modification are still challenging. Herein, the hydrothermal method and surface modification of ammonia and thionyl chloride were applied to synthesize CQDs with different surface groups using PEO106PPO70PEO106 (Pluronic F127) as a carbon source. The average particle size of the as-prepared CQDs was in the range of 2.3–3.5 nm. The unmodified CQDs had the highest relative photoluminescence intensity, while all as-prepared CQDs exhibited abnormal photoluminescence located outside the scope of the visible spectrum. Interestingly, CQDs modified with ammonia achieved a degradation rate of 99.13% (15 d) for 50 mg/L indigo carmine solution, while CQDs modified with thionyl chloride reached a degradation rate of 97.59% (15 d) for light green SF yellowish solution. Therefore, in this work, two typical organic dyes can be effectively photocatalytically degraded by as-prepared CQDs, with suitable surface modification.
Predicting Centrifugal Pumps’ Complete Characteristics Using Machine Learning
Authors: Yu Jiangping , Akoto Emmanuel , Degbedzui Derek Kweku , Hu Liren
Published: February 2023

The complete characteristics of centrifugal pumps are crucial for the modeling of hydraulic transient phenomena occurring in pipe systems. However, due to the effort required to obtain these curves, pump manufacturers typically only provide basic information, particularly when the pump operates under normal conditions. To acquire the full characteristic curves based on the manufacturer’s normal performance curve, a machine learning (ML) model is proposed to predict full, complete Suter curves using a pump’s specific speed with the known parts of the Suter curve. The training data for the model are sourced from the available Suter curves from laboratory experiments. Subsequently, the proposed ML model combines several types of regression models in an attempt to find the most accurate prediction in terms of the root mean square error (RMSE). The result proved highly efficient, as the experiments attained a maximum RMSE value of 0.032 across the three categories of centrifugal pumps based on their specific speeds, hence demonstrating the potential of machine learning in the study of pump characteristic curves.
The Issues with Journal Issues: Let Journals Be Digital Libraries
Authors: Burns C. Sean
Published: February 2023

Science depends on a communication system, and today, that is largely provided by digital technologies such as the internet and web. Despite the fact that digital technologies provide the infrastructure for this communication system, peer-reviewed journals continue to mimic workflows and processes from the print era. This paper focuses on one artifact from the print era, the journal issue, and describes how this artifact has been detrimental to the communication of science, and therefore, to science itself. To replace the journal issue, this paper argues that scholarly publishing and journals could more fully embrace digital technologies by creating digital libraries to present and organize scholarly output.
Recycling of Plastic Food Packages: A Case Study with Finnish University Students
Authors: Alarinta Jarmo , Närvä Margit , Wirtanen Gun
Published: February 2023

Recycling, depositing, and proper discarding of plastics are significant means to reduce plastics in the environment. The purpose of this study was to monitor both the type and amount of plastic food packages recycled, reused, and discarded in Finnish households with at least one university student. The participating students came from various universities of applied sciences. They participated in courses related to sustainable food systems at Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences. In total, 785 approved participants from 363 households took part in one-week monitoring. The focus was to quantify the number of food packages used and specify how the respondents handled the food packages after use. This study shows that the recycling rate of plastic packages in Finnish households was 61%. Bigger households produce less packaging waste per person than one- or two-person households. Furthermore, the recycling activity in single-person households was lower than for two- and three-person households. The Finnish deposit system for drink packages encourages people to recycle packages. This reduces municipal waste. Recycling requires knowledge of the plastic material used in food packages.
Measurement Method and Influencing Mechanism of Urban Subdistrict Vitality in Shanghai Based on Multisource Data
Authors: Shi Yishao , Zheng Jianwen , Pei Xiaowen
Published: February 2023

Most previous studies on urban vitality focused on the analysis and evaluation of the overall vitality of urban agglomerations or single cities, while there are few related studies at the micro scale, such as subdistricts and even blocks. Based on multisource data and using the kernel density analysis and entropy methods, the economic vitality, social vitality, cultural vitality, ecological vitality and comprehensive vitality of each subdistrict in Shanghai were measured. Additionally, correlation analysis, the ordinary least squares (OLS) regression model, the spatial lag model (SLM) and the spatial error model (SEM) were used for fitting analysis to reveal the influencing mechanism of urban subdistrict vitality. The results showed that (1) the spatial distribution of economic vitality and social vitality in Shanghai showed the spatial characteristics of radiating outward from the center, and the types of social activity location corresponding to different levels of hotspot areas are different. Cultural vitality showed the spatial distribution characteristics of “gathering in the centre and dispersing around, with Puxi higher than Pudong”, but the cultural vitality values of different subdistricts vary greatly. Ecological vitality showed an increasing trend from the center to the surrounding areas. (2) The overall urban vitality of Shanghai also showed a decreasing circular structure from the center to the periphery. (3) Among the three regression models, i.e., the OLS regression model, SLM and SEM, the model with the best explanation of urban vitality is the SLM, which had an R2 of 0.6984, indicating that it can explain 69.84% of the spatial distribution pattern of urban vitality. (4) The factors that have significant effects on urban vitality are functional mix, metro station accessibility, metro station density, bus station density and intersection density, and all of them are positively correlated. The order of the strength of the effects is bus station density > metro station density > intersection density > metro station accessibility > functional mix.
An Unmixing-Based Multi-Attention GAN for Unsupervised Hyperspectral and Multispectral Image Fusion
Authors: Su Lijuan , Sui Yuxiao , Yuan Yan
Published: February 2023

Hyperspectral images (HSI) frequently have inadequate spatial resolution, which hinders numerous applications for the images. High resolution multispectral image (MSI) has been fused with HSI to reconstruct images with both high spatial and high spectral resolutions. In this paper, we propose a generative adversarial network (GAN)-based unsupervised HSI-MSI fusion network. In the generator, two coupled autoencoder nets decompose HSI and MSI into endmembers and abundances for fusing high resolution HSI through the linear mixing model. The two autoencoder nets are connected by a degradation-generation (DG) block, which further improves the accuracy of the reconstruction. Additionally, a coordinate multi-attention net (CMAN) is designed to extract more detailed features from the input. Driven by the joint loss function, the proposed method is straightforward and easy to execute in an end-to-end training manner. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed strategy outperforms the state-of-art methods.
Visibility Extension of 1-D Aperture Synthesis by a Residual CNN for Spatial Resolution Enhancement
Authors: Zhao Guanghui , Li Qingxia , Chen Zhiwei , Lei Zhenyu , Xiao Chengwang , Huang Yuhang
Published: February 2023

In order to improve the spatial resolution of a one-dimensional aperture synthesis (1-D AS) radiometer without increasing the size of the antenna array, the method of visibility extension (VE) is proposed in this article. In the VE method, prior information about the visibility distribution of various scenes is learnt by a residual convolutional neural network (ResCNN). Specifically, the relationship between the distribution of low-frequency visibility and that of high-frequency visibility is learnt. Then, the ResCNN is used to estimate the high-frequency visibility samples from the low-frequency visibility samples obtained by the AS system. Furthermore, the low- and high-frequency visibility samples are combined to reconstruct the brightness temperature image of the scene, to enhance the spatial resolution of AS. The simulation and experiment both demonstrate that the VE method can enhance the spatial resolution of 1-D AS.
Hydrophilic Interaction Chromatography
Authors: Tsunoda Makoto
Published: February 2023

Hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) was first introduced by Alpert in 1990 [...]
Economic Feasibility of Thermal Energy Storage-Integrated Concentrating Solar Power Plants
Authors: Jayathunga Darsha , Weliwita Jinendrika Anushi , Karunathilake Hirushie , Witharana Sanjeeva
Published: February 2023

Concentrating solar power (CSP) is a high-potential renewable energy source that can leverage various thermal applications. CSP plant development has therefore become a global trend. However, the designing of a CSP plant for a given solar resource condition and financial situation is still a work in progress. This study aims to develop a mathematical model to analyze the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of Thermal Energy Storage (TES)-integrated CSP plants in such circumstances. The developed model presents an LCOE variation for 18 different CSP configurations with TES incorporated for Rankine, Brayton, and combined power generation cycles, under regular TES materials and nano-enhanced TES materials. The model then recommends the most economical CSP plant arrangement. Within the scope of this study, it was found that the best configuration for electricity generation is a solar power tower with nano-enhanced phase change materials as the latent heat thermal energy storage medium that runs on the combined cycle. This returns an LCOE of 7.63 ct/kWh with a 22.70% CSP plant efficiency. The most favorable option in 50 MW plants is the combined cycle with a regular TES medium, which has an LCOE of 7.72 ct/kWh with a 22.14% CSP plant efficiency.
Twelve Weeks Rest–Pause and Traditional Resistance Training: Effects on Myokines and Performance Adaptations among Recreationally Trained Men
Authors: Karimifard Mahmood , Arazi Hamid , Mehrabani Javad
Published: February 2023

A rest–pause (RP) technique involves performing one or more repetitions at high resistance to failure, followed by a short rest before performing one or more repetitions. These techniques can affect neuromuscular conditions and fatigue by changing the rest time between repetitions. This study compared the effect of 12 weeks of RP and traditional resistance training (TRT) on myokines (myostatin (MSTN), follistatin (FLST) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)) and functional adaptations. The study recruited 29 men between the ages of 20 and 30 who had performed resistance training for at least 6 to 12 months. Participants were randomly divided into three groups: RP, TRT, and control; resistance training was performed 3 days per week for 12 weeks. The training methods of the two groups were largely similar. The results showed that RP increased IGF-1 and FLST/MSTN more than the TRT group (% change = 19.04, % change = 37.71), and only the RP and TRT groups had significant changes in the FLST/MSTN ratio compared to the control group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.02, respectively). In addition, FLST levels increased and MSTN decreased in the RP and TRT groups, but the rate of change in FLST was significant in the RP and TRT groups compared to the control group (p = 0.002 and p = 0.001, respectively). Leg press and bench press strength, and arm and thigh muscular cross-sectional area (MCSA) increased more in the RP group than in the others, and the percentage of body fat (PBF) decreased significantly. The change between strength and MCSA was significant (p ≤ 0.05), and the PBF change in RP and TRT compared to the control (ES RP group = 0.43; ES TRT group = 0.55; control group ES = 0.09) was significant (p = 0.005, p = 0.01; respectively). Based on the results, the RP training technique significantly affects strength and muscle hypertrophy more than the TRT method, which can be included in the training system to increase strength and hypertrophy.
Potential for Sustainable Production of Natural Colorants in the Tropical Forest: A Biorefinery Case of Annatto Seeds
Authors: Agudelo Patiño Tatiana , Poveda-Giraldo Jhonny Alejandro , Salas Moreno Manuel Haminton , Rengifo Mosquera Gysela , Cardona Alzate Carlos Ariel
Published: February 2023

Tropical forests are a source of several high-value products that provide livelihood to small communities in different regions. Exotic fruits such as annatto are feedstock sources containing bioactive compounds with important applications in the food industry. Nevertheless, the integral use of annatto for community improvement and the crop’s contribution to carbon sequestration in tropical forests have not been analyzed. This paper aims to demonstrate the economic and environmental performance of small-scale alternatives to obtain natural colorants using annatto seed. The extraction of natural colorants (bixin and norbixin) was analyzed using ethanol and NaOH as solvents. The experimental results were used to simulate two scenarios. Scenario one involved bixin production, and scenario two comprised bixin and norbixin production. The economic and environmental assessments were performed considering the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology based on a Colombian context. The best extraction yield was 72.65 mg g−1 for bixin and 193.82 mg g−1 for norbixin. From a simulation perspective, scenario two showed the best economic performance since a payback period of 3.1 years was obtained. The LCA showed a high CO2 sequestration potential (6.5 kg CO2 eq kg−1 seed) of the annatto crop. Moreover, the solvents used during the colorant extraction proved to be the most environmentally representative. Nevertheless, the CO2 sequestration of the crop continues to exceed the emissions generated by the process. This work demonstrates that the annatto is an alternative for small communities to reach equilibrium between the economic and environmental of the tropical forest.
Describing Micro-Mobility First/Last-Mile Routing Behavior in Urban Road Networks through a Novel Modeling Approach
Authors: Tzouras Panagiotis G. , Mitropoulos Lambros , Koliou Katerina , Stavropoulou Eirini , Karolemeas Christos , Antoniou Eleni , Karaloulis Antonis , Mitropoulos Konstantinos , Vlahogianni Eleni I. , Kepaptsoglou Konstantinos
Published: February 2023

E-scooters aspire to provide flexibility to their users while covering the first/last mile of a multimodal trip. Yet, their dual travel behavior, i.e., utilizing both vehicles’ roadways and pedestrians’ sidewalks, creates new challenges to transport modelers. This study aims to model e-scooter riding behavior in comparison to traditional urban transport modes, namely car and walking. The new modeling approach is based on perceived safety that is influenced by the road environment and affects routing behavior. An ordinal logistic model of perceived safety is applied to classify road links in a 7-point Likert scale. The parametric utility function combines only three basic parameters: time, cost, and perceived safety. First/last mile routing choices are modeled in a test road network developed in Athens, Greece, utilizing the shortest-path algorithm. The proposed modeling approach proved to be useful, as the road environment of an urban area is heterogenous in terms of safety perceptions. Indeed, the model outputs show that the flexibility of e-scooters is limited in practice by their low-perceived safety. To avoid unsafe road environments where motorized traffic dominates, e-scooter riders tend to detour. This decision-making process tool can identify road network discontinuities. Nevertheless, their significance regarding routing behavior should be further discussed.
Access to Piped Water and Off-Farm Work Participation: Evidence from Rural China
Authors: Shen Xuhang , Wang Ziqi , Li Shi
Published: February 2023

The lack of access to water services for a considerable share of the world population has been challenging the international community for decades. Billions of hours are spent each year on water collection in developing countries. Access to piped water can liberate individuals from the task of collecting water. Based on data from the China Labor-force Dynamic Survey (CLDS), this paper examines the impact of access to piped water on off-farm work participation. We find that access to piped water significantly improves off-farm work participation in rural China. This result remains robust when we use the PSM approach, Lewbel IV method, placebo test, and Dose-Response Model. Anyway, we find that the positive effect of access to piped water on off-farm work participation is greater in rugged areas and women, reflecting the role of access to piped water in promoting inclusive growth. Further research shows that access to piped water increases household income, and off-farm work participation mediates, in part, the link between access to piped water and household income.
The Relationship Research between Biodiversity Conservation and Economic Growth: From Multi-Level Attempts to Key Development
Authors: Zhang Yutong , Zhou Wei , Luo Danxue
Published: February 2023

The relationship between biodiversity and economic growth is a topic that still needs to be considered in a volatile global environment. Therefore, a bibliometric analysis of this topic can help scholars understand the current state of research and topical issues. Based on CiteSpace and Pajek, this paper fully does this study from the perspectives of authors, journals, countries, keywords, regions, and path analysis. Through this research, we find that: (1) the number of publications and citations in the literature about biodiversity and economic growth research have increased significantly; (2) scholars oppose unrestricted economic growth and advocate for the protection of the environment and biodiversity. Ecological environment protection and economic development are win-win relationships. (3) The keyword analysis revealed that a current research hotspot is the question of how to develop the economy while preserving ecological diversity. (4) Developed countries or regions are pioneers in studying the relationship between biodiversity and economic growth, and they have progressively led and driven the development of research in this field. The main purpose of this study is to provide guidance to researchers, and those interested in biodiversity and economic growth.
Strategic Thinking and Its Role in Accelerating the Transition from the Linear to the Circular Economic Model—Case Study of the Agri-Food Sector in the Sibiu Depression Microregion, Romania
Authors: Iagăru Romulus , Șipoș Anca , Iagăru Pompilica
Published: February 2023

Our research provides solutions to alleviate the economic problems currently plaguing our planet that are responsible for the decline of its ecological systems. Our motivation is the need to identify elements that will encourage and accelerate the transition from a linear to a circular economic model, raising awareness of the limited nature of resources and the major pressures exerted by climate change and population growth. Our paper highlights the implications of strategic thinking, i.e., strategic management, in the development and promotion of the circular economy, including the concept of sustainability, in the agri-food sector. We propose strategic options based on information from our secondary analysis of statistical data and relevant literature, e.g., from PESTEL, SWOT, and DPSIR diagnostic models, for integrating resource flows into circular processes, which are meant to reduce resource consumption and minimise waste. Our paper elaborates on an integrated and dynamic model for the transition from a linear to a circular economic model; furthermore, we perform further research to create appropriate frameworks for elaborating on and implementing the most relevant policy options to accelerate this transition process.
Shellac: From Isolation to Modification and Its Untapped Potential in the Packaging Application
Authors: Ahuja Arihant , Rastogi Vibhore Kumar
Published: February 2023

Recently, terms such as sustainable, bio-based, biodegradable, non-toxic, or environment-benign are being found in the literature, suggesting an increase in green materials for various applications in the future, particularly in the packaging application. The unavoidable shift from conventional polymers to green materials is difficult, as most bio-sourced materials are not water-resistant. Nonetheless, Shellac, a water-resistant resin secreted by a lac insect, used as a varnish coat, has been underutilized for packaging applications. Here, we review Shellac’s potential in the packaging application to replace conventional polymers and biopolymers. We also discuss Shellac’s isolation, starting from the lac insect and its conversion to Sticklac, Seedlac, and Shellac. Further, the chemistry of shellac resin, the chemical structure, and its properties are examined in detail. One disadvantage of Shellac is that it becomes stiff over time. To enable the usage of Shellac for an extended time in the packaging application, a modification of Shellac via physical and chemical means is conferred. Furthermore, the usage of Shellac in other polymer matrices and its effect are reviewed. Lastly, the non-toxic and biodegradable nature of Shellac and its potential in packaging are explored by comparing it with traditional crude-based polymers and conventional bio-based materials.
Research Landscape of Adaptive Learning in Education: A Bibliometric Study on Research Publications from 2000 to 2022
Authors: Jing Yuhui , Zhao Leying , Zhu Keke , Wang Haoming , Wang Chengliang , Xia Qi
Published: February 2023

Adaptive learning is an approach toward personalized learning and places the concept of “learner-centered education” into practice. With the rapid development of artificial intelligence and other technologies in recent years, there have been many breakthroughs in adaptive learning. Thus, it is important to gain insight into the evolution of related research and to track the research frontiers to further promote its development. This study used CiteSpace and VOSviewer to conduct a bibliometric analysis of 644 adaptive learning journal papers indexed in the WoS database from 2000 to 2022. This study presented a general view of the field of adaptive learning research over the last two decades using quantitative analysis. Currently, adaptive learning research is rapidly developing. In terms of the major research forces, a core group of authors including Qiao J. F., Han H. G. and Song Q has been formed; the major publishing country in this field is China; the core publishing journals include IEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems. Four major research topics in this field were identified using cluster analysis, namely the application of deep learning in educational data analysis, the development and application of adaptive learning model in AI education, the development and application of intelligent tutoring system in tutoring and teaching, cutting-edge modeling technology for feature modeling and knowledge tracing. Through evolution analyses, the logic of adaptive learning research’s development was determined; that is, technological changes have played a key role in the development of this field. Following the logic, we presented three frontiers of adaptive learning with burst terms: feature extraction, adaptation model and computational modeling. Adaptive learning is a core research topic for both computer science and educational technology disciplines, and it is also an important field where emerging technologies empowering education and teaching can play a part. The findings of the study clearly presented the current research status, evolutionary logic and research frontiers of this topic, which can provide references for the further development of this research field.
Influence of Coarse Grain Content on the Mechanical Properties of Red Sandstone Soil
Authors: Chen Junhua , Zhang Yanjiang , Yang Yanxin , Yang Bai , Huang Bocheng , Ji Xinping
Published: February 2023

Coarse-grained red sandstone soil is often used as embankment filling material but is prone to being broken by extrusion, which lowers the stability of the roadbed. This paper aimed to clarify the influence of the variation in coarse-grain content on the mechanical properties of coarse-grained red sandstone soil. Soil with a grain size greater than 5 mm is regarded as coarse-grained soil, and coarse-grained red sandstone soils with different contents of coarse grains were prepared as cylindrical specimens with a diameter of 300 mm and a height of 600 mm. Under three different confining pressures, a large-scale triaxial apparatus was used to carry out triaxial shear tests. The results showed that as the content of coarse grains of red sandstone (denoted as p) increased, the deviation stress of static failure increased, showing a hyperbolic relationship. The internal friction angle also increased hyperbolically, while the cohesion reached a peak value and then decreased, and the maximum value of 133.8 kPa was reached at p = 30%. As the content of coarse grains increased, the maximum dilatancy increased. The maximum amount of shrinkage reached a peak value and then decreased, and the maximum value was reached when p = 30%. A coarse grain content p equal to 30% was the optimum value when coarse-grained red sandstone soil was used as a filling material.