bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Charge Regulation of Poly(acrylic acid) in Solutions of Non-Charged Polymer and Colloids
Authors: Yekymov Evgenee , Attia David , Levi-Kalisman Yael , Bitton Ronit , Yerushalmi-Rozen Rachel
Published: February 2023

Weak polyelectrolytes (WPEs) are responsive materials used as active charge regulators in a variety of applications, including controlled release and drug delivery in crowded bio-related and synthetic environments. In these environments, high concentrations of solvated molecules, nanostructures, and molecular assemblies are ubiquitous. Here, we investigated the effect of high concentrations of non-adsorbing, short chains of poly(vinyl alcohol), PVA, and colloids dispersed by the very same polymers on charge regulation (CR) of poly(acrylic acid), PAA. PVA does not interact with PAA (throughout the full pH range) and thus can be used to examine the role of non-specific (entropic) interactions in polymer-rich environments. Titration experiments of PAA (mainly 100 kDa in dilute solutions, no added salt) were carried out in high concentrations of PVA (13–23 kDa, 5–15 wt%) and dispersions of carbon black (CB) decorated by the same PVA (CB-PVA, 0.2–1 wt%). The calculated equilibrium constant (and pKa) was up-shifted in PVA solutions by up to ~0.9 units and down-shifted in CB-PVA dispersions by ~0.4 units. Thus, while solvated PVA chains increase the charging of the PAA chains, as compared to PAA in water, CB-PVA particles reduce PAA charging. To investigate the origins of the effect, we analyzed the mixtures using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and cryo-TEM imaging. The scattering experiments revealed re-organization of the PAA chains in the presence of the solvated PVA but not in the CB-PVA dispersions. These observations clearly indicate that the acid–base equilibrium and the degree of ionization of PAA in crowded liquid environments is affected by the concentration, size, and geometry of seemingly non-interacting additives, probably due to depletion and excluded volume interactions. Thus, entropic effects that do not depend on specific interactions should be taken into consideration when designing functional materials in complex fluid environments.
Highly Flexible Triboelectric Nanogenerator Using Porous Carbon Nanotube Composites
Authors: Shin Jaehee , Ji Sungho , Cho Hanchul , Park Jinhyoung
Published: February 2023

The rapid development of portable and wearable electronic devices has led researchers to actively study triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) that can provide self-powering capabilities. In this study, we propose a highly flexible and stretchable sponge-type TENG, named flexible conductive sponge triboelectric nanogenerator (FCS-TENG), which consists of a porous structure manufactured by inserting carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into silicon rubber using sugar particles. Nanocomposite fabrication processes, such as template-directed CVD and ice freeze casting methods for fabricating porous structures, are very complex and costly. However, the nanocomposite manufacturing process of flexible conductive sponge triboelectric nanogenerators is simple and inexpensive. In the tribo-negative CNT/silicone rubber nanocomposite, the CNTs act as electrodes, increasing the contact area between the two triboelectric materials, increasing the charge density, and improving charge transfer between the two phases. Measurements of the performance of flexible conductive sponge triboelectric nanogenerators using an oscilloscope and a linear motor, under a driving force of 2–7 N, show that it generates an output voltage of up to 1120 V and a current of 25.6 µA. In addition, by using different weight percentages of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), it is shown that the output power increases with the weight percentage of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The flexible conductive sponge triboelectric nanogenerator not only exhibits good performance and mechanical robustness but can also be directly used in light-emitting diodes connected in series. Furthermore, its output remains extremely stable even after 1000 bending cycles in an ambient environment. In sum, the results demonstrate that flexible conductive sponge triboelectric nanogenerators can effectively power small electronics and contribute to large-scale energy harvesting.
Does Religious Community Participation Matter for Shaking off Poverty?
Authors: He Yugang
Published: February 2023

Religion, which is more of an informal system than anything else, permeates every aspect of our lives. As a result of this context, this article uses China as a case study to investigate the effect of religious community participation on income (a proxy for shaking off poverty). Using the 2018 Chinese General Social Survey and the ordinary least squares approach to conduct an empirical study, our results indicate that participation in religious communities has a favorable effect on income and is a means by which individuals may escape poverty. Additionally, we conducted the robustness test using the two-stage least squares approach and the findings indicate that the conclusions in this study are trustworthy and effective. In the meantime, the examination of heterogeneity revealed that religious community participation has a larger effect on rural residents’ alleviation of poverty than on urban residents. In conclusion, the results presented in this study may serve as new evidence for the Chinese government to further religious freedom.
Potential of Satellite Spectral Resolution Vegetation Indices for Estimation of Canopy Chlorophyll Content of Field Crops: Mitigating Effects of Leaf Angle Distribution
Authors: Zou Xiaochen , Jin Jun , Mõttus Matti
Published: February 2023

Accurate estimation of canopy chlorophyll content (CCC) is critically important for agricultural production management. However, vegetation indices derived from canopy reflectance are influenced by canopy structure, which limits their application across species and seasonality. For horizontally homogenous canopies such as field crops, LAI and leaf inclination angle distribution or leaf mean tilt angle (MTA) are two biophysical characteristics determining canopy structure. Since CCC is relevant to LAI, MTA is the only structural parameter affecting the correlation between CCC and vegetation indices. To date, there are few vegetation indices designed to minimize MTA effects for CCC estimation. Herein, in this study, CCC-sensitive and MTA-insensitive satellite broadband vegetation indices are developed for crop canopy chlorophyll content estimation. The most efficient broadband vegetation indices for four satellite sensors (Sentinel-2, RapidEye, WorldView-2 and GaoFen-6) with red edge channels were identified (in the context of various vegetation index types) using simulated satellite broadband reflectance based on field measurements and validated with PROSAIL model simulations. The results indicate that developed vegetation indices present strong correlations with CCC and weak correlations with MTA, with overall R2 of 0.76–0.80 and 0.84–0.95 for CCC and R2 of 0.00 and 0.00–0.04 in the field measured data and model simulations, respectively. The best vegetation indices identified in this study are the soil-adjusted index type index SAI (B6, B7) for Sentinel-2, Verrelts’s three-band spectral index type index BSI-V (NIR1, Red, Red Edge) for WorldView-2, Tian’s three-band spectral index type index BSI-T (Red Edge, Green, NIR) for RapidEye and difference index type index DI (B6, B4) for GaoFen-6. The identified indices can potentially be used for crop CCC estimation across species and seasonality. However, real satellite datasets and more crop species need to be tested in further studies.
Geocenter Motions Derived from BDS Observations: Effects of the Solar Radiation Pressure Model and Constellation Configuration
Authors: Li Xingxing , Huang Shi , Yuan Yongqiang , Zhang Keke , Lou Jiaqing
Published: February 2023

As the first hybrid-constellation global navigation system, China’s BeiDou navigation satellite system (BDS) has been fully constructed since July 2020 and provides open services for worldwide users. Due to the natural sensitivity of satellite tracking techniques to geocenter motion, BDS has the capability to determine the geocenter coordinates (GCC). This study aims to improve the precision of geocenter coordinates derived from BDS. To that end, 3-year sets of daily geocenter coordinates have been determined with BDS observations. Different solar radiation pressure (SRP) models, including the empirical CODE orbit model (ECOM), the extended ECOM model (ECOM2), and the a priori box-wing along with the ECOM model (BW + ECOM), have been applied for the BDS geocenter estimation. We show that the BW + ECOM model is beneficial in recovering the geocenter motion. Compared to the ECOM, the BW + ECOM model appears to mitigate the draconitic signal of BDS, which reduces the annual amplitude of the GCC-Z by a factor of 2.9. On the other hand, the amplitude of the 3 cpy signal is also reduced by a factor of 2.9. Furthermore, we studied the impact of BDS constellation configuration on the geocenter estimation. The results indicate that the inclusion of IGSO satellites significantly mitigates the spurious signals in the spectra of the GCC-Z. The amplitudes of the annual signal and 3 cpy signal are reduced by (28%, 14%), (33%, 61%), and (31%, 9%) for ECOM, ECOM2, and BW + ECOM cases, respectively. Meanwhile, the amplitude of the 7-day signal related to the orbital period of MEO satellites is also reduced by 32–45%. Thus, the BW + ECOM model and the MEO+IGSO hybrid configuration are recommended for BDS to determine the geocenter coordinates. However, despite these improvements, a significant annual signal with an amplitude of 20.2 mm and a visible 3 cpy signal with an amplitude of 6.1 mm still exist when compared to the Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) solution.
The Influence of Mobile Device Type on Camera-Based Monitoring of Neck Movements for Cervical Rehabilitation
Authors: Roig-Maimó Maria Francesca , Salinas-Bueno Iosune , Mas-Sansó Ramon , Varona Javier , Martínez-Bueso Pau
Published: February 2023

We developed a mobile application for cervical rehabilitation that uses a non-invasive camera-based head-tracker sensor for monitoring neck movements. The intended user population should be able to use the mobile application in their own mobile device, but mobile devices have different camera sensors and screen dimensions that could affect the user performance and neck movement monitoring. In this work, we studied the influence of mobile devices type on camera-based monitoring of neck movements for rehabilitation purposes. We conducted an experiment to test whether the characteristics of a mobile device affect neck movements when using the mobile application with the head-tracker. The experiment consisted of the use of our application, containing an exergame, in three mobile devices. We used wireless inertial sensors to measure the real-time neck movements performed while using the different devices. The results showed that the effect of device type on neck movements was not statistically significant. We included the sex factor in the analysis, but there was no statistically significant interaction between sex and device variables. Our mobile application proved to be device-agnostic. This will allow intended users to use the mHealth application regardless of the type of device. Thus, future work can continue with the clinical evaluation of the developed application to analyse the hypothesis that the use of the exergame will improve therapeutic adherence in cervical rehabilitation.
High-Sensitivity CMOS-Integrated Floating Gate-Based UVC Sensors
Authors: Yampolsky Michael , Pikhay Evgeny , Shima Edelstein Ruth , Roizin Yakov
Published: February 2023

We report on novel UVC sensors based on the floating gate (FG) discharge principle. The device operation is similar to that of EPROM non-volatile memories UV erasure, but the sensitivity to ultraviolet light is strongly increased by using single polysilicon devices of special design with low FG capacitance and long gate periphery (grilled cells). The devices were integrated without additional masks into a standard CMOS process flow featuring a UV-transparent back end. Low-cost integrated UVC solar blind sensors were optimized for implementation in UVC sterilization systems, where they provided feedback on the radiation dose sufficient for disinfection. Doses of ~10 µJ/cm2 at 220 nm could be measured in less than a second. The device can be reprogrammed up to 10,000 times and used to control ~10–50 mJ/cm2 UVC radiation doses typically employed for surface or air disinfection. Demonstrators of integrated solutions comprising UV sources, sensors, logics, and communication means were fabricated. Compared with the existing silicon-based UVC sensing devices, no degradation effects that limit the targeted applications were observed. Other applications of the developed sensors, such as UVC imaging, are also discussed.
A Survey of Symbiotic Radio: Methodologies, Applications, and Future Directions
Authors: Janjua Muhammad Bilal , Arslan Hüseyin
Published: February 2023

The sixth generation (6G) wireless technology aims to achieve global connectivity with environmentally sustainable networks to improve the overall quality of life. The driving force behind these networks is the rapid evolution of the Internet of Things (IoT), which has led to a proliferation of wireless applications across various domains through the massive deployment of IoT devices. The major challenge is to support these devices with limited radio spectrum and energy-efficient communication. Symbiotic radio (SRad) technology is a promising solution that enables cooperative resource-sharing among radio systems through symbiotic relationships. By fostering mutualistic and competitive resource sharing, SRad technology enables the achievement of both common and individual objectives among the different systems. It is a cutting-edge approach that allows for the creation of new paradigms and efficient resource sharing and management. In this article, we present a detailed survey of SRad with the goal of offering valuable insights for future research and applications. To achieve this, we delve into the fundamental concepts of SRad technology, including radio symbiosis and its symbiotic relationships for coexistence and resource sharing among radio systems. We then review the state-of-the-art methodologies in-depth and introduce potential applications. Finally, we identify and discuss the open challenges and future research directions in this field.
Estimation of Ground Contact Time with Inertial Sensors from the Upper Arm and the Upper Back
Authors: González Leticia , López Antonio M. , Álvarez Diego , Álvarez Juan C.
Published: February 2023

Ground contact time (GCT) is one of the most relevant factors when assessing running performance in sports practice. In recent years, inertial measurement units (IMUs) have been widely used to automatically evaluate GCT, since they can be used in field conditions and are friendly and easy to wear devices. In this paper we describe the results of a systematic search, using the Web of Science, to assess what reliable options are available to GCT estimation using inertial sensors. Our analysis reveals that estimation of GCT from the upper body (upper back and upper arm) has rarely been addressed. Proper estimation of GCT from these locations could permit an extension of the analysis of running performance to the public, where users, especially vocational runners, usually wear pockets that are ideal to hold sensing devices fitted with inertial sensors (or even using their own cell phones for that purpose). Therefore, in the second part of the paper, an experimental study is described. Six subjects, both amateur and semi-elite runners, were recruited for the experiments, and ran on a treadmill at different paces to estimate GCT from inertial sensors placed at the foot (for validation purposes), the upper arm, and upper back. Initial and final foot contact events were identified in these signals to estimate the GCT per step, and compared to times estimated from an optical MOCAP (Optitrack), used as the ground truth. We found an average error in GCT estimation of 0.01 s in absolute value using the foot and the upper back IMU, and of 0.05 s using the upper arm IMU. Limits of agreement (LoA, 1.96 times the standard deviation) were [−0.01 s, 0.04 s], [−0.04 s, 0.02 s], and [0.0 s, 0.1 s] using the sensors on the foot, the upper back, and the upper arm, respectively.
Fatigue and Secondary Media Impacts in the Automated Vehicle: A Multidimensional State Perspective
Authors: Neubauer Catherine E. , Matthews Gerald , De Los Santos Erika P.
Published: February 2023

Safety researchers increasingly recognize the impacts of task-induced fatigue on vehicle driving behavior. The current study (N = 180) explored the use of a multidimensional fatigue measure, the Driver Fatigue Questionnaire (DFQ), to test the impacts of vehicle automation, secondary media use, and driver personality on fatigue states and performance in a driving simulator. Secondary media included a trivia game and a cellphone conversation. Simulated driving induced large-magnitude fatigue states in participants, including tiredness, confusion, coping through self-comforting, and muscular symptoms. Consistent with previous laboratory and field studies, dispositional fatigue proneness predicted increases in state fatigue during the drive, especially tiredness, irrespective of automation level and secondary media. Similar to previous studies, automation slowed braking response to the emergency event following takeover but did not affect fatigue. Secondary media use relieved subjective fatigue and improved lateral control but did not affect emergency braking. Confusion was, surprisingly, associated with faster braking, and tiredness was associated with impaired control of lateral position of the vehicle. These associations were not moderated by the experimental factors. Overall, data support the use of multidimensional assessments of both fatigue symptoms and information-processing components for evaluating safety impacts of interventions for fatigue.
Recent Advancements in the Treatment of Emerging Contaminants Using Activated Persulfate Oxidation Process
Authors: Juni Farrandie , Bashir Mohammed J. K. , Haider Jaffari Zeeshan , Sethupathi Sumathi , Wong Jonathan W. C. , Zhao Jun
Published: February 2023

Emerging contaminants (ECs) usually refer to pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), dioxins, personal care products, cosmetics, and medications. Due to the strong demand and quick growth of these businesses, the ECs have continuously been found in alarming amounts in groundwater, surface water, and wastewater. These ECs provide a significant non-esthetic threat to the ecosystem as a whole and can cause significant non-esthetic contamination when released into the aquatic environment. The conventional wastewater treatment techniques such as activated sludge, membrane filtration, coagulation, adsorption, and ozonation showed ECs removal performance to a certain extent. In turn, numerous emerging advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), especially activated persulfate oxidation, have garnered a huge amount attention due to their outstanding performance in the remediation of ECs. This article presents a systematic and critical review of electro, sono and thermal activation of persulfate for the treatment of ECs. The effect of key parameters such as electrode materials, solution pH, persulfate concentration, current density, and temperature on electro, sono- and thermal-activated degradation of ECs was discussed. The possible reaction mechanism of ECs degradation was also elucidated in detail. It was closed with a note on the situation now and the future course of electro, sono and thermal activation in ECs degradation applications. Experiments performed in recent studies show that with the aid of persulfate in electro activation, the removal efficiency of chemical oxygen demand can be achieved up to 72.8%. Persulfate activated by sono shows 100% removal efficiency of 1,1,1-trichloroethane and sulfamethoxazole. While for thermal activation of persulfate, 100% removal efficiency of carbamazepine, atrazine and sulfamethazine was achieved. All these vital shreds of evidence are substantial enough to picture the negative impact of ECs on the environment.
Variation with In Vitro Analysis of Volatile Profiles among Aspergillus flavus Strains from Louisiana
Authors: Moore Geromy G. , Lloyd Steven W.
Published: February 2023

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by A. flavus strains were first captured and identified to discern between non-aflatoxigenic and toxigenic phenotypes, and more recently to help with detecting fungal infection, but not with the goal of using VOCs produced by non-aflatoxigenic strains to inhibit growth and/or production of one or more mycotoxins (e.g., aflatoxin and cyclopiazonic acid) by toxigenic aspergilli. In this study, four Aspergillus strains from Louisiana (one non-aflatoxigenic and three toxigenic) were grown on various substrates and had their headspaces captured and analyzed by solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (SPME/GC/MS), to find biocontrol and biomarker compounds. Here, we present a collection of nearly 100 fungus-related VOCs, many of which were substrate dependent. Thirty-one were produced across multiple replicates and the rest were observed in a single replicate. At least three VOCs unique to non-aflatoxigenic strain LA1 can be tested for biocontrol properties (e.g., euparone, 4-nonyne), and at least four VOCs unique to toxigenic strains LA2-LA4 can be explored as biomarkers (e.g., 2-heptanone, glycocyamidine) to detect their presence while infecting crops in the field or in storage.
Factors Influencing the Continuation of Work in Patients with Cancer Willing to Work: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Yano Kazumi
Published: February 2023

Cancer patients, while receiving treatment, face several challenges with respect to their jobs and are sometimes forced to quit them. This study aimed to identify the factors affecting the continuation of work in patients with cancer who expressed a willingness to work. A total of 515 patients who were diagnosed with cancer within the last five years and who were willing to work were included. The factors that decreased the likelihood of working were being an adolescent or young adult, long-term absenteeism, fatigue, dyspnea, and economic problems. Factors that increased the likelihood of working were household income of 10 million yen or more, absenteeism of less than 7 months, and role functions. Our findings suggest that, to support the continuation of work, it is crucial to alleviate symptoms, such as fatigue and breathing difficulties, for patients with cancer, and provide support to ensure that their leave of absence does not exceed 7 months. In particular, psychological, social, and physical support to adolescents and young adults with cancer and those with economic problems are essential.
Mental Health Disorders in Ultra Endurance Athletes per ICD-11 Classifications: A Review of an Overlooked Community in Sports Psychiatry
Authors: Colangelo Jill , Smith Alexander , Buadze Ana , Keay Nicola , Liebrenz Michael
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Although research suggests that exercise benefits mental health, psychiatric disorders have been acknowledged in the ultra-endurance-athlete population. At present, the mental-health consequences of high-volume training associated with ultra-endurance sports are not well understood. Methods: We conducted a narrative review summarizing primary observations about mental disorders per ICD-11 criteria in ultra-endurance athletes using a keyword search in Scopus and PubMed. Results: We identified 25 papers discussing ICD-11-classified psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and schizophrenia in ultra-endurance athletes. Discussion: Although evidence is limited, available papers indicate that there is a sizable incidence of mental-health issues and composite psychopathological vulnerabilities in this community. We contend that ultra-endurance athletes may represent a different, though similar, demographic than elite and/or professional athletes, as they often engage in high-volume training with similarly high motivation. This can have regulatory implications, which we also highlight. Conclusion: Mental illness in ultra-endurance athletes is an underrepresented topic in sports medicine, though psychiatric disorders may be especially prevalent in this population. Further inquiry is necessary to inform athletes and healthcare practitioners about the possible mental-health implications associated with participation in ultra-endurance sports.
Population Structure and Local Carbon Emission Reduction: Evidence from Guangdong, China
Authors: Wen Fenghua , Sun Zhanlin , Luo Yu
Published: February 2023

Based on the data obtained on carbon emissions in Guangdong Province, China, from 1997 to 2019, this study focused on the relationship between energy consumption and population development in Guangdong Province. This study quantitatively analyzed the impact of different population structures and technological progress on carbon emissions in Guangdong Province by establishing an extended model of Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence, and Technology (STIRPAT). The results showed that the population size factor was not as good as the population structure factor for carbon emissions. In addition, different demographic factors affected carbon emissions differently with both positive and negative effects. Finally, relevant policy suggestions were proposed from the perspectives of encouraging the childbearing of appropriate-age residents, optimizing the population structure, reducing the separation of people and households, guiding residents to return to the traditional family model, guiding residents to live a low-carbon life, optimizing industrial institutions, and adjusting the energy consumption structure.
Biochar Addition and the Runoff Quality of Newly Constructed Green Roofs: A Field Study
Authors: Xiong Weiwei , Li Juan , Wang Hankun , Wu Yongbo , Li Dongchang , Xue Jianhui
Published: February 2023

Extensive nutrient leaching has been a major concern in the establishing stage of green roofs. Although an addition of biochar to the green roof substrates has been increasingly recommended, the extent to which this addition can affect the runoff quality is still largely unknown. Using biochars made from maize straws (MSB) and rice husks (RHB), this study investigated the effects of biochar addition rates (0%, 10%, 15%, and 20% biochar, v/v) on the runoff quality of new green roofs over 6 months. Our results show that the addition of biochar significantly affected the runoff quality. With an increasing biochar addition rate (10∼20%), the mean total nitrogen (TN) concentration in the runoff decreased from 103.68 mg L−1 (CK) to 26.21∼52.77 mg L−1 (RHB) and 10.12∼3.97 mg L−1 (MSB), the mean dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration decreased from 94.47 mg L−1 (CK) to 101.76∼59.41 mg L−1 (RHB) and 52.45∼26.73 mg L−1 (MSB), and the mean pH increased from 7.15 (CK) to 7.42∼7.50 (RHB) and 7.49∼7.71 (MSB). However, the mean total phosphorus (TP) concentration increased from 0.27 mg L−1 (CK) to 0.22∼0.57 mg L−1 (RHB) and 0.58∼1.07 mg L−1 (MSB). Generally, the N and DOC concentrations were lower in the treatment with added MSB than RHB, but the P concentrations and pH were higher. The N concentration was significantly negatively correlated with the single rainfall and cumulative rainfall in the CK- and RHB-added treatments but not in the MSB-added treatments, suggesting that the addition of MSB affected the process of N leaching from the substrate. Overall, we recommend adding 10% maize straw biochar to the green roof substrate to reduce the initial nutrient leaching from the new green roof and improve the runoff water quality.
Research on Coordinated Development of Shenzhen Port Logistics and Hinterland Economy
Authors: Wang Weixin , Wu Qiqi
Published: February 2023

As the main channel of global cargo transportation, the coordinated development of the logistics and hinterland economy of coastal ports is of great significance to promote the sustainable development of countries (regions). The improvement in port logistics’ performance lays the foundation for the smooth transportation of goods. The improvement in coastal port infrastructure facilities will also effectively reduce the resource loss and carbon emissions generated in the process of cargo handling and turnover. Aiming at researching the coordinated development of coastal port logistics and the hinterland economy, this paper constructs the index system of Shenzhen port logistics and Shenzhen’s economic development, selects the relevant data from 1996 to 2020, uses the grey correlation model to analyze the internal correlation between Shenzhen port logistics and Shenzhen’s economic development, constructs the system order degree model and the coupling coordination model, explores their coordinated development degree and collaborative trend, and further selects the Johansen cointegration test and Granger causality test to verify the development relationship between the two, and puts forward relevant suggestions to promote the sustainable development of port logistics and the hinterland economy. The empirical results show that there is a high correlation between Shenzhen port logistics and Shenzhen’s economic development, the degree of coordinated development is increasing year by year, and there is a long-term equilibrium relationship between the two, which has the characteristics of mutual promotion.
Sustainable Environmental Economics in Farmers’ Production Factors via Irrigation Resources Utilization Using Technical Efficiency and Allocative Efficiency
Authors: Mivumbi Michel , Yuan Xiaoling
Published: February 2023

This study reports the results of farmers’ production via irrigation resources utilization and efficiency parameters of technical efficiency and allocative efficiency by way of sustainable environmental economics. The hypothesis is that factors of farmers’ production affect technical efficiency and allocative efficiency in the irrigation scheme as sustainable environmental economics. Data from cross section and panel data were used and then the productivity parameters measurement of the production function are outlined in two scenarios: first, the data report that the parameters such as output elasticity determine factors of inefficiency and technical efficiency. Second, it presents the scores for the allocative efficiency to explain whether production factors (resources) are optimally, under- or over-allocated by farmers in the irrigation systems under environmental sustainability. This paper presents the productivity and efficiency parameters estimated using stochastic frontier analysis for the translog production function, which was estimated by the MLE method, and the allocative efficiency for the factor inputs allocation in the irrigation systems estimated by ordinary least square for the Cobb-Douglas production function. This study concludes that collective farmers lead into technical inefficiency and over use of factors of production.
Health and Well-Being Benefits of Outdoor and Indoor Vertical Greening Systems: A Review
Authors: Fonseca Fernando , Paschoalino Marina , Silva Lígia
Published: February 2023

Green spaces have become the most threatened by urban growth, and the decline in these areas is a main cause of environmental and social problems with implications for human health and well-being. Vertical greenery systems have been proposed as a solution to restore the connection between the city and nature, particularly in compact and dense cities, where horizontal space is limited. This paper provides a literature review to examine the influence of outdoor and indoor vertical greenery systems on human health and well-being. The Web of Science and Scopus databases were chosen to survey peer-reviewed documents published until October 2022. A total of 73 documents were selected by the search. Over 71% of the documents were published over the last four years, and most of them focused on the environmental and thermal benefits of vertical greenery systems. Although these benefits could bring health and well-being outcomes, they were not objectively measured and quantified. Other additional gaps and guidelines for future research were also identified and discussed. This review could be helpful for researchers and urban planners in developing vertical greenery to create healthy and more sustainable cities.
Structural Dimensions and Measurement of Trust Networks among Construction Project Participants
Authors: Wang Xiang , Yin Yilin
Published: February 2023

The formation and stable existence of interorganizational trust and its network structure can promote the sustainable development of construction projects and thus become the core elements of the stakeholder relationship governance mechanism. However, existing research has not reached an agreement on the structural characteristics and key dimensions of trust networks, which makes it difficult to conduct in-depth empirical research on the degree of trust of all project participators. Based on social network theory, this study analyzes the connotation, dimension and measurement method of trust networks of project participants. The results show that the structure of trust networks can be divided into density and centralization. Among them, the trust network’s density reflects the universality and stability of the trust relationship between the participants, while centralization mainly reflects the heterogeneity of the trust relationship.
The Effect of Value Creation on Startups Performance in the Digital Environment: Evidence from Chinese Digital Startups
Authors: Chen Ping
Published: February 2023

The use of digital technology has enabled consumers to play an essential role in the success of startups. Priem et al. proposed a demand-value creation-performance framework, which argues that firms can create value for the consumer by exploring consumer demand, and this type of value-creation activity can help firms gain better performance. However, empirical evidence supporting this framework remains scarce. To address this challenge, this study empirically tests Priem et al.’s framework in the context of entrepreneurship. A unique on-site survey dataset of 323 digital startups in the digital environment was employed to explore how consumer demand drives startups to value creation activities and gain better performance. The study results show that consumer demands, in terms of demand heterogeneity, demand uncertainty, and demand interactivity, are positively related to value creation, as reflected by opportunity recognition and consumer innovation. Furthermore, both opportunity recognition and consumer innovation are positively related to the performance of startups. These findings support the demand-side perspective by providing empirical evidence for its key arguments from an entrepreneurial view and extend the demand-side perspective by contextualizing it in the increasingly digital environment.
Towards a New Urban Health Science
Authors: Gatzweiler Franz W , Jayasinghe Saroj , Siri José G , Corburn Jason
Published: February 2023

The intensity and range of health challenges that people in cities are facing has increased in recent years. This is due in part to a failure to adequately adapt and respond to emergent and expanding global systemic risks, but also to a still-limited understanding of the profound impacts of complexity on urban health. While complexity science is increasingly embraced by the health and urban sciences, it has yet to be functionally incorporated into urban health research, policy, and practice. Accelerating urbanization in a context of escalating environmental constraints will require deeper engagement with complexity, yet also, paradoxically, much swifter, more effective, and more risk-averse decision-making. Meeting these demands will require adopting a science, policy and practice style which is integrative, inclusive, collaborative, systemic, fast, and frugal. We propose transformational shifts in scientific methodology, epistemological and ontological stances, types of rationality, and governance to shift researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and citizens towards a new, complexity-informed science of urban health.
Next-Generation Sequencing: A Promising Tool for Vaccines and Other Biological Products
Authors: Nellimarla Srinivas , Kesanakurti Prasad
Published: February 2023

Next-generation sequencing (NGS), also known as high-throughput sequencing (HTS), is a commonly used term to represent a set of DNA sequencing technologies that have been in use for almost two decades [...]
Calculation of Head Losses and Analysis of Influencing Factors of Crossing Water-Conveyance Structures of Main Canal of Middle Route of South-to-North Water Diversion Project
Authors: Cui Wei , Chen Wenxue , Mu Xiangpeng , Xiong Qilin , Lu Minglong
Published: February 2023

The main canal of the middle route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project has the risk of excess head loss in crossing water-conveyance structures, but the assessment of this risk faces difficulties such as the lack of sufficient monitoring points inside the structures, the current water-conveyance flow rate being lower than the design maximum flow rate, and the lack of verification of monitoring data. Monitoring data of the main canal were collected in 2022, prototype observations were carried out, the monitoring data were verified, and a method for calculating the head loss using the combined head loss coefficient was proposed. The assessment of 143 structures showed that 40 structures had excess head losses, including 31 inverted siphons, four aqueducts, four underdrains, and one culvert. The 143 structures had a total residual head of 3.05 m, accounting for 9% of the distributed head. In addition to natural aging, freshwater mussel and algal attachment, sediments, and undesirable flow regimes were all important influencing factors that caused the head loss to increase. It is recommended to take measures such as regular removal of sediments and algae and freshwater mussel attachments, optimization of inlet and outlet shapes, and application of roughness-reducing materials.
Coordinated Control of Unmanned Electric Formula Car
Authors: Tao Hua , Yang Baocheng
Published: February 2023

The coordinated control method of Unmanned Electric Formula Racing (UEFC) was studied to improve the handling stability of UEFC. The UEFC’s mechanical structure, which is based on the driving system and transmission system, was designed. In accordance with mechanical structure of the designed racing car, a seven-degree of freedom mathematical model of the UEFC was established. In accordance with the built mathematical model of racing car, the lateral controller of racing car was designed by using a fuzzy neural network method. The longitudinal controller of the racing car was designed by using the method of incremental PID control, and the coordination controller of the racing car was designed by combining the lateral controller and the longitudinal controller so as to realize the lateral and longitudinal coordination control of the UEFC. The experimental results showed that the output parameters such as yaw rate, vehicle speed and heading angle were slightly different from the expected output. It was confirmed that the research method can enhance the handling stability of the UEFC.
Preparación de las cuidadoras privadas para desarrollar la diversidad comunicativa de niños (as) en casas de cuido
Authors: Lince Acosta Nora Maite , Gómez Rodríguez Mirna
Published: February 2023

El objetivo de este artículo es la elaboración de un programa de preparación de las cuidadoras del sector no estatal para estimular el desarrollo de comunicación de los niños(as) en casas de cuido. Se emplearon métodos del nivel teórico y empírico. El programa propuesto se dirige a brindar conocimientos teóricos sobre la comunicación, demostrar y ejecutar actividades que permitan la estimulación y desarrollo de la comunicación; estas actividades constituyen modelos para elaborar otras similares durante el servicio que prestan. Se logró aceptación en las casas de cuido donde se implementó el programa de preparación alcanzando niveles de preparación altos y medios en las cuidadoras y además, propició en desarrollo de la comunicación en los niños(as).
Introduction to the Ha'a Luha Ritual of the Kemak Tribe from Belu Regency Based on Multimedia
Authors: Lese Mau Rosalinda , Ratniasih Ni Luh , Astu I Wayan
Published: February 2023

The Ha'a luha ritual is a ritual that is very attached to the Kemak Mi bei community. They think this tradition is very sacred and is carried out yearly because of certain beliefs that convince the assembly of the ha'a luha traditional ceremony. Therefore, many tourists still need to learn about this ritual due to the lack of multimedia-based information media that can provide complete information. Based on this problem, an idea emerged to build a multimedia-based information system to make it easier for everyone to learn about this ritual. The data collection stage in this study used the Multimedia Development Lyfe Cycle (MDLC) method. The MDLC process is a Luther version of the multimedia development method. The steps of the MDLC plan consist of Concept, Design, Material Collecting, Assembly, Testing, and Distribution. This information system was built using Adobe Animate CC2019, an action script programming language, and HTML5. The design of this system uses data flowcharts, Interface Design, Storyboards, Menu views, and table structures. This system was tested using the black box method, where each test ran as expected. In this article, the researcher tries to build an application system that has never been studied by previous researchers so that it can be known by the whole community and learned by future generations so that it is easy to practice when the tribal chiefs are gone.
Evaluasi Kebijakan Harga, Lokasi, Promosi dan Fasilitas Pendukung terhadap Kepuasan Konsumen
Authors: Dwi Zulstra Jumadil , Rahim Hamidah , Rahmadianti Mutia
Published: February 2023

This study aims to determine how much influence the factors of price policy, location, promotion and supporting facilities have on customer satisfaction at Sofian Inn Rangkayo Basa Padang Hotel. The research method uses quantitative descriptive analysis. The results of the study were concluded simultaneously through the F test that price, location, and promotion policies and supporting facilities had a positive and significant effect on consumer satisfaction. While partially the price policy has a positive and significant effect on consumer satisfaction, but the location variable and promotion variable partially have a positive but insignificant effect, and the supporting facilities variable has an insignificant negative effect. The results of the coefficient of determination test stated that consumer satisfaction was 53% influenced by factors such as price policy, location, promotion and supporting facilities, with the remaining 47% being influenced by other factors. Researchers suggest that the location variable needs to be considered because the hotel's strategic position with this Padang beach tourist attraction can foster the interest of hotel visitors. Furthermore, for the promotion variable, it is necessary to improve communication through promotions that are given both directly and indirectly in order to provide hotel positioning to consumers, as well as supporting facilities variables need to be improved, such as expanding vehicle parking facilities so that hotel consumers who visit and stay are satisfied with the facilities provided.
ANÁLISE DE ÂNGULOS E PONTOS PARA VACINAÇÃO DE TILÁPIAS-DO-NILO
Authors: Rocha Ingrid Samara Fonseca , Freitas Paulo Vitor Divino Xavier de , Oliveira Raquel Priscila de Castro , Teodoro Arthur Gabriel , Iskandar Gabriella Riad , Silva Neto Carlos de Melo e
Published: February 2023

Objetivou-se com o presente estudo avaliar diferentes ângulos e pontos de vacinação de juvenis de Tilapias-do-Nilo contra streptococose. Foram vacinados 450 juvenis de tilápias-do-nilo (Oreochroimis niloticus). Os animais foram divididos em três grupos (n=150) de acordo com seus pesos (grupo um: 140 g; grupo dois: 225 g e grupo três: 295 g). Os peixes foram vacinados em diferentes ângulos (45° ou 90°) e em diferentes pontos localizados na região intraperitoneal, entre as nadadeiras pélvicas (Ponto 0- meia nadadeira; ponto 1- entre meia nadadeira e a inserção da nadadeira, ponto 2 – paralelo a inserção da nadadeira), totalizando 75 peixes para cada ângulo proposto e 25 peixes para cada ponto de vacinação. Utilizou-se vacina comercial inativada com adjuvante oleoso contra Streptococcus agalactiae. Para análise do manejo vacinal elaborou-se um formulário que foi preenchido dividindo os peixes como bem vacinados, pouco vacinados e sem vacina. Os resultados foram obtidos por análise visual e expressos em porcentagem de acordo com os critérios estabelecidos. A vacinação do grupo um (140 g) e do grupo dois (225 g) no ângulo de 90° no ponto 2 possibilitou que 88% dos peixes fossem bem vacinados. O grupo três (295g) também foi melhor vacinado no ângulo de 90° no ponto 2, com 80% dos peixes bem vacinados. O ângulo de 90° no ponto 2 se mostrou mais eficiente para vacinação de juvenis de tilápia-do-Nilo para ambos os grupos de peso estudados.
Aproximações entre a psicologia histórico-cultural e o enactivismo: Aplicações às teorias da memória e implicações para a educação
Authors: da Silva Santos Adriana Damascena , Maximino Caio
Published: February 2023

This paper discusses some of the conceptions about memory found in activity theory - with a special focus on Vygotsky and Zinchenko - and compared them with some of the propositions and conceptions of enactive cognition. An approximation between these two theories, mediated by Marxian conceptions of the "total human being," allows for a more interesting and coherent elaboration of the role of memory in the classroom - overcoming models that understand memory as a mere "warehouse," and its role as that of "memorization" of content. From this approach, we can understand memory as an act of creation rather than reproduction, favoring the unity between subject and object. This also allows us to criticize and overcome education as a process of alienation, and has important practical consequences from the reading of memory as pragmatic.
Ch(e)atGPT? An Anecdotal Approach addressing the Impact of ChatGPT on Teaching and Learning GIScience
Authors: Stutz Petra , Elixhauser Maximilian , Grubinger-Preiner Judith , Linner Vivienne , Reibersdorfer-Adelsberger Eva , Traun Christoph , Wallentin Gudrun , Wöhs Katharina , Zuberbühler Thomas
Published: February 2023

Natural language processing systems like ChatGPT recently gained enormous attention in the field of higher education. We aim to contribute to this discussion by scrutinising the suitability of current testing methods and potentially necessary shifts in learning objectives in GIScience. This paper presents an anecdotal approach of the impact of ChatGPT on teaching and learning based on a real world use case. It focuses on the results of a fictional student who used ChatGPT for the completion of application development assignments, including coding. The solutions were submitted to the instructor, who assessed the results in a blind experiment. The instructor’s feedback and positive grading as well as the AI-plagiarism results were part of our evaluation of the applied testing methods. This triggered a discussion on the adequacy of current learning objectives in geo-application development and the integration of AI into the learning process.