bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergizing Systems Thinking and Technology-Enhanced Learning Using the Flow Theory Framework
Authors: Kurent Brina , Avsec Stanislav
Published: September 2024

In an era where digital technologies are integral to daily life, developing higher-order thinking skills with appropriate information and communication technology (ICT) support is crucial. The purpose of this study was to examine synergies of systems thinking and technology-enhanced learning from the perspective of flow theory. For that purpose, we surveyed more than 65 pre-service preschool teachers engaged in a design, technology, and engineering (DTE) course at the University of Ljubljana. Mapping of systems thinking revealed that pre-service preschool teachers needed support with regard to feedback and understanding the interrelationship dimen-sion of systems thinking. Predictive and mediation analyses yielded some interesting results. Those who participated in the ICT-enhanced DTE course showed higher cognitive and social engage-ment, which is correlated with better systems thinking, while their aesthetic engagement was lower. Experiencing a flow state during ICT activities positively influenced systems thinking, par-ticularly in terms of clear goals and autotelic experiences. Flow theory seems to be a solid and ap-propriate framework to use for studying synergies in technology-enhanced systems thinking for sustainable education. These findings underscore the importance of integrating systems thinking into curricula to enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for future challenges toward the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.
Organizing the Chaos: Novel Insights into the Regulation of Z-3-Hexenal Production in Damaged Maize Leaves
Authors: Selman Samantha , Engelberth Marie , Engelberth Jurgen
Published: September 2024

Green leaf volatiles (GLV) are important signaling compounds that help to regulate plant defenses against pests and pathogens. Made through the hydroperoxide lyase (HPL) pathway, they are rapidly produced upon damage and can signal this to other parts of the same plant or even plants nearby, where they can induce rapid defense responses directly or prime them against the impending danger. In this primed state plants can respond faster and/or stronger should pests or pathogens attack. However, while all proteins and genes involved in the biosynthesis of GLV have been identified, little is still known about how the first two steps in the pathway, e.g., oxygenation by a lipoxygenase (LOX) and subsequent cleavage by HPL are facilitated within the damaged tissue, resulting in the production of Z-3-hexenal (Z3al) as the first committed product of the pathway. Here, we provide evidence that several factors might be involved in the production of Z3al including pH, Ca2+, and an environment that is highly hydrophobic. We present a model in which the extraordinary circumstances that are present at the site of Z3al production are considered and shine new light on potential regulatory mechanisms.
A Multiomics Evaluation of the Countermeasure Influence of 4-Weeks Cranberry Beverage Supplementation on Exercise-Induced Changes in Innate Immunity
Authors: Nieman David Christopher , Sakaguchi Camila A , Williams James C , Woo Jongmin , Omar Ashraf M , Mulani Fayaj A , Zhang Qibin , Pathmasiri Wimal , Rushing Blake R , McRitchie Susan , Sumner Susan J , Lawson Jackie , Lambirth Kevin C
Published: September 2024

Keywords: cranberry, exercise, proteomics, oxylipins, gut microbiome, metabolomics, immunity
On Nilpotent Elements and Armendariz Modules
Authors: Ansari Nazeer , Alnefaie Kholood , Ali Shakir , Abbasi Adnan , Singh Kh. Herachandra
Published: September 2024

For a left module RM over non-commutative ring R, the notion for the class of nilpotent elements (nilR(M)) was first introduced and studied by SSevviiri and Groenewald . Moreover, Armendariz and semicommutative modules are generalizations of reduced modules and nilR(M)=0 in the case of reduced modules. Thus, the nilpotent class plays a vital role in these modules. Motivated by this, we present the concept of nil-Armendariz modules as a generalization of reduced modules and a refinement of Armendariz modules, focusing on the class of nilpotent elements. Further, we demonstrate that the quotient module M/N is nil-Armendariz if and only if N is within the nilpotent class of RM. Additionally, we establish that the matrix module Mn(M) is nil-Armendariz over Mn(R) and explore conditions under which nilpotent classes form submodules. Finally, we prove that nil-Armendariz modules remain closed under localization.
Quantifying the Influence of Climate and Agricultural Inputs on Rice Yields: Evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Riaz Mahmud Hasan , Ahmed Zobayer , Khan Musa
Published: September 2024

This study examines the combined influence of both meteorological and non-climatic factors on rice production in Bangladesh between 1990 and 2020, using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model. The key variables consist of temperature, precipitation, urbanisation, fertiliser management (specifically potassium levels), and the area of permanent crops. The findings highlight the substantial detrimental impact of temperature on rice output over a prolonged period, whereas precipitation and urbanisation have a favourable affect on rice productivity. However, the utilisation of potassium fertiliser has a detrimental effect on crop productivity. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that the development of permanent crop fields has a beneficial effect on rice output. These findings provide important information for policymakers and agricultural stakeholders, highlighting the need for adaptive strategies to improve the ability of rice production to withstand the impacts of climate change and urbanisation. The significance of these discoveries applies to rice-producing regions worldwide, offering a strategic blueprint for sustainable cultivation of rice and ensuring food security.
Acetylcholine Activates a Regenerative Vasodilator Mechanism That Is Sensitive to Nitric Oxide Production
Authors: Barrera Nelson P , Márquez Mónica , Muñoz-Uribe Matías , Figueroa Xavier F
Published: September 2024

Conduction of vasodilator signals plays an important role in the coordination of blood flow distribution. It is thought that endothelium-dependent vasodilation’s are conducted by electrotonic spread through gap junctions of the endothelial cell hyperpolarization generated at the stimulation site. However, nitric oxide (NO) was found to reduce the propagation of vasodilator responses, suggesting the participation of this signaling molecule in the mechanism of conduction. Mouse cremasteric arterioles were stimulated through micro-application of ACh or the NO donor, S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) and the responses were evaluated at the stimulation site (local) and at sites located 500, 1000 and 2000 µm upstream from the vessel segment stimulated with ACh. The response to ACh spread along the entire vessel showing a slight decay and, in contrast, the dilation evoked by SNAP was restricted to the stimulation site, independently of the magnitude of the response. Blockade of NO production with 100 µM NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) or 100 µM NG-nitro-L-arginine (L-NA) reduced the resting diameter by 10-12% (n=4), but the combination of two NO blockers enhanced the basal vasoconstrictor tone by ~38% (n=5) and inhibited the local (~45%) and conducted (~20-35%) responses to ACh. Interestingly, the conduction of ACh-induced vasodilation increased along the vessel length in the presence of L-NAME and L-NA. In addition, endothelial cell hyperpolarization blockade exclusively at the stimulation site through microsuperfusion of tetraethylammonium inhibited the local vasodilation, but not the conduction of the response. These results indicate that ACh activates a NO-sensitive regenerative vasodilator mechanism that is coupled to the activation of NO production and endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization along the vessel length.
Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 ORF76 Encoding US9 as a Neurovirulence Factor in the Mouse Infection Model
Authors: Nayel Mohamed , Kasem Samy , Fukushi Noriko , El-Habashi Nagwan , Elsify Ahmed , Salama Akram , Hassan Hany , Yanai Tokuma , Ohya Kenji , Fukushi Hideto
Published: September 2024

Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) causes rhinopneumonitis, abortion and neurological outbreaks (equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy, EHM) in horses. EHV-1 also causes lethal encephalitis in laboratory small animals such as mice and hamsters experimentally. EHV-1 ORF76 is a homologue of HSV-1 US9, which is a herpesvirus kinase. Starting with an EHV-1 bacterial artificial chromosome clone of neuropathogenic strain Ab4p (pAb4p BAC), we constructed an ORF76 deletion mutant (Ab4p∆ORF76) by replacing ORF76 with the rpsLneo gene. Deletion of ORF76 had no influence on replication, cell-to-cell spread in cultured cells or replication in primary neuronal cells. In western blots of EHV-1-infected cell lysates, an EHV-1 Us9-specific polyclonal antibody detected multiple bands ranging from 35 to 42-kDa. In a CBA/N1 mouse infection model following intranasal inoculation, the parent and Ab4p∆ORF76 revertant caused the same histopathology in the brain and olfactory bulbs. The parent, Ab4p∆ORF76 and revertant mutant replicated similarly in the olfactory mucosa, although Ab4p∆ORF76 was not transported to the olfactory bulbs and was unable to infect the CNS. These results indicated that the ORF76 (US9) plays an essential role in the anterograde spread EHV-1.
Management of Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus) By-Products in Malta: Logistics, Biomass Quality and Environmental Impact
Authors: Cusimano Giovanni Marco , Revue Clara A. , Chiang Jui-Che , Rustad Turid , Sasidharan Abhilash , Dalgaard Paw , Gasco Laura , Gai Francesco , Sørensen Ann-Dorit Moltke , Paolacci Simona
Published: September 2024

Malta produces approximately 15,000 tons of bluefin tuna every year, by-products are estimated to count for 55% of the harvest. Maltese tuna farmers established a company that processes these by-products into fish meal and oil that are sold to the pet food industry. In this study the logistic of tuna farming and management in Malta was analysed and the environmental impact of the activity was estimated. The biomass quality and the preservation state of tuna head and liver was assessed. The head had the highest ash content (1.68±0.02%) while the liver had the highest protein content (16.18±0.02%) and the highest crude fat, (34.87±0.76%). The highest concentration of oil was found in the head’s skin (50.07±0.84%). The predominant saturated fatty acids (SFAs) were c14:0, c16:0 and c18:0. Monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs) were the major fatty acids present in all samples, with the highest values in the tuna head. The oxidation levels found in the by-products upon arrival at the processing plant doesn’t compromise their quality. No histamine formation was predicted. Some oxidation was observed in the oil after extraction. The Life Cycle Assessment estimated that the environmental score of the activity is 105pts per ton of fishmeal and 25kg of oil produced (2.82 tCO2 eq). It is concluded that the processing of tuna by-products in Malta is a sustainable alternative to traditional disposal methods and their quality is high enough to be used as a source of proteins and lipids in farmed-animals feed.
Determination of Nine Fentanyl and Six Amphetamine Drugs in Hair Samples by GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS
Authors: Wei Qi , Su Fuhai
Published: September 2024

Background: We prepared reference materials of fentanyl and amphetamines in hair, and established methods for the certification of reference materials of fentanyl and amphetamines in hair samples. Methods: Hair samples containing 15 drugs were prepared by immersion method (water-dimethylsulfoxide). On the basis of single-factor experiment, Box-Behnken design-response surface was used to optimize the pre-treatment conditions of samples. In MRM/SIM mode, 15 drugs were quantitatively analyzed by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS methods. Results: The contents of 15 drugs in the mixed hair samples were: 1.050 ng mg-1~7.771 ng mg-1, RSDs<7%(n=11). The results showed that the two analytical methods developed were highly sensitive (LODs as low as 0.05 pg mg-1), reproducible (intra-day and inter-day precision RSDs were<10%) and accurate. F-test was performed on the prepared hair samples and the results showed that the homogeneity of the prepared hair samples was good. Conclusions: The established methods were used for the detection of fentanyl and amphetamine drugs in human hair, with high sensitivity, accuracy and specificity. It can be used as a certified method for the development of fentanyl and amphetamine matrix certified reference materials. The developed hair reference materials are expected to be applied in forensic drug abuse detection and laboratory quality control.
How Experiences of Stigma and Discrimination at Various Points in the Queer Life Course Interrelates with Alcohol Use: Views from Sexually and Gender Diverse Youth
Authors: Flores-Aranda Jorge , Gaudette Yannick , Dalle Anthea , Nadeau Dominic , Goyette Mathieu
Published: September 2024

Background: The life courses of sexually and gender diverse individuals are shaped by a series of events that include acceptance of one’s own sexual orientation or gender identity, the coming out process, socialization in the LGBTQ+ environment. Generally experienced in a cis-heteronormative context, it is marked by stigma and discrimination and the social harms they can cause, including a higher-than-average prevalence of alcohol use.
Objectives: To profile the alcohol use of SGD youth from a life course perspective; and to explore individual perceptions regarding the personal, social and cultural factors (including stigmatization and its consequences) modulating their consumption.
Methodology: This qualitative descriptive study is grounded in symbolic interactionism. Semi-structured interviews lasting approximately 90 minutes were conducted with LGBTQ+ youth aged 18 to 30 using alcohol at least once a week. A thematic analysis was performed.
Results: 31 individuals aged 18–29 (average age: 25) were interviewed. The average score regarding alcohol use was 14.25 (SD: 4–31), which corresponds to moderate risk and indicates the need for a brief intervention. Our study document how higher alcohol use among LGBTQ+ youth is shaped by individual, community and cultural factors at different points in the queer life course. Among the factors influencing drinking are the emotions experienced when questioning sexual orientation and/or gender identity as well as the feelings resulting from stigma and discrimination. Our findings also indicate the influence of socializing in the queer community and meeting peers and partners, as well as that of LGBTQ+ cultural practices.
Discussion: Our study indicates the need for grassroots-level interventions that work to mitigate social pressures in queer socialization contexts. Accordingly, any intervention, whether preventive or therapeutic, must consider the interplay of personal, social, community and cultural factors. Interventions regarding alcohol use must build on the strengths of community and the sense of belonging.
A New Concept of Reconfigurable Antenna Structure Based on an Array of RF-MEMS Switches
Authors: Donelli Massimo , Iannacci Jacopo , Manekiya Mohammedhusen
Published: September 2024

A Geometrical re-configurable structure based on RF Micro-electro-mechanical switches (RF-MEMS) is proposed in this work. The structure is composed of an array of gold metallic patches interconnected together utilizing RF-MEMS switches in order to change its geometry and, consequently, the scattering parameters. In particular, the reconfigurability is achieved by activating multiple RF-MEMS switches, which enables the change of electrical length and, consequently, the resonance frequency of the structure. As a proof of concept, an experimental antenna prototype composed of an array of 7 × 7 elements interconnected by a set of RF-MEMS switches has been designed, fabricated numerically and experimentally assessed. The structure can be set as an antenna or other basic radio frequency components. The obtained experimental results are in good agreement with the simulations, with an error of less than 5% for the considered radiating structures. The quite promising results demonstrated the potentialities and flexibility of the proposed structure.
Transport-Related Emissions and Transition Strategies for Sus-Tainability – A Case Study of the Fast Fashion Industry
Authors: Matuszak-Flejszman Alina , Preisner Anna , Banach Joanna Katarzyna
Published: September 2024

The fast fashion industry has a significant impact on the environment at every stage of the product life cycle. There is a lack of research in the literature on the impact of fast fashion on the environment through logistics and transport. In this area, the greatest environmental impact is caused by air emissions, which is very important from the point of view of climate change. Therefore, this article deals with the analysis of the carbon footprint resulting from the fast fashion logistics process.
The identification and assessment of fast fashion companies' sustainability efforts in the area of transport-related emissions and sustainable transformation strategies was conducted using a case study method for selected brands (H&M Group; Inditex, Shein). The study uses secondary data available in non-financial reports from 2023.
After analyzing the data and content in non-financial reports on transport-related emissions, sev-eral important conclusions emerge. As a dominant practice, companies emphasize their reliance on external frameworks and standards, in particular the Global Reporting Initiative and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures. Companies prioritize reducing emissions from significant factors, such as production processes. The data disclosed in the reports (scope 1, 2, 3) are not clearly formulated, but they can be used to calculate the level of CO2 emission reduction/increase. The ar-ticle contains recommendations for companies to improve their reporting by including additional indicators expressing the efficiency of transport-related emissions.
IoT Integration of Failsafe Smart Building Management System
Authors: Sabit Hakilo , Tun Thit
Published: September 2024

This research investigates the energy consumption of buildings managed by traditional Building Management Systems (BMS) and proposes the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology to enhance energy efficiency. Conventional BMS often suffer from significant energy wastage and safety hazards due to sensor failures or malfunctions. These issues arise when building systems continue to operate under unknown conditions while the BMS is offline, leading to increased energy consumption and operational risks. The study demonstrates that integrating IoT systems with existing BMS can substantially improve energy efficiency in smart buildings. The research involved designing a system architecture prototype, performing MATLAB simulations, and real-life case study which revealed that IoT devices are effective in reducing energy waste, particularly in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems and lighting. Additionally, an auxiliary bypass system was incorporated in parallel with the IoT system to enhance reliability in the event of IoT system failures. Preliminary findings indicate that the integration of IoT systems with traditional BMS significantly boosts energy efficiency and safety in smart buildings. This integration offers a promising solution for advancing energy management practices and policies, thereby improving both operational performance and sustainability in building management.
Multiobjective Majority-minority Cellular Automata Algorithm (MOMmCAA) for Global and Engineering Design Optimization
Authors: Seck-Tuoh-Mora Juan Carlos , Hernandez-Hurtado Ulises , Medina-Marín Joselito , Hernández-Romero Norberto , Lizárraga-Mendiola Liliana
Published: September 2024

When dealing with complex models in real situations, many optimization problems require using more than one objective function to represent the relevant characteristics of the system under consideration adequately. This is why multiobjective optimization algorithms that can deal with several objective functions are required in order to obtain reasonable results in an adequate processing time. This paper presents the multiobjective version of a recent metaheuristic algorithm that optimizes a single objective function, known as the Majority-minority Cellular Automata Algorithm (MmCAA), inspired by cellular automata operation. The algorithm presented here will be known as the Multiobjective Majority-minority Cellular Automata Algorithm (MOMmCAA). The MOMmCAA adds repository management and multiobjective search space density control to complement the performance of the MmCAA and make it capable of optimizing multiobjective problems. To evaluate the performance of the MOMmCAA, benchmark test sets are taken (DTLZ, quadratic, and CEC-2020), along with real-world engineering design problems, compared against other multiobjective algorithms recognized for their performance (MOLAPO, GS, MOPSO, NSGA-II, and MNMA). The results obtained in this work show that MOMmCA produces comparable performance with the other metaheuristic methods, which shows it as a competitive algorithm to be used for multiobjective problems. MOMmCAA was implemented in MATLAB, and its source code can be consulted in GitHub. https://github.com/juanseck/MOMmCAA
Perspectives on Evaluation of Food Banks
Authors: Arraes Nilson Antonio Modesto , Chaim Nuria Abrahão
Published: September 2024

(1) Food banks have played an important role in reducing food losses and waste and improving the food insecurity situation of vulnerable people. This study aims to conduct a systematic review of food bank evaluation studies and bring new perspectives for future research and decision-making. (2) 58 articles were selected and analyzed from a survey on the Web of Science and Science Direct Platforms. Bibliometric analyses and analyses of the evaluation methodologies used were presented. (3) The bibliometric results indicate an internationalization of the studies since 2013, with a focus on developed countries, and a direct relationship between the location of the research institutes and the location of the organizations studied. Analysis of evaluation methodologies showed that the main aspects evaluated are related to long-term impact, short-term impact and results, indicating less interest in the internal processes and activities of organizations. This result raises important questions for researchers and decision-makers: to what extent evaluation studies reflect the reality and context of a given country or region and to what extent evaluation studies reflect the management processes of food banks.
A Small-Scale Object Detection Algorithm in Intelligent Transportation Scenarios
Authors: Song Junzi , Han Chunyan , Wu Chenni
Published: September 2024

In response to the problem of poor detection ability of object detection models for small-scale targets in intelligent transportation scenarios, a fusion method is proposed to enhance the features of small-scale targets, starting from feature utilization and fusion methods. The algorithm is based on the YOLOv4 tiny framework and enhances the utilization of shallow and mid level features on the basis of FPN, improving the detection accuracy of small and medium-sized targets; In view of the problem that the background of the intelligent traffic scene image is cluttered and there is more redundant information, the CBAM attention module is used to improve the attention of the model to the traffic target; To address the problem of data imbalance and prior bounding box adaptation in custom traffic datasets that expand traffic images in COCO and VOC, we propose a Copy Paste method with improved generation method and a K-means algorithm with improved distance measurement to enhance the model's detection ability for corresponding categories. Comparative experiments were conducted on a customized 260 thousand traffic dataset containing public traffic images, and the results showed that compared to YOLOv4 tiny, the proposed algorithm improved mAP by 4.9% while still ensuring the real-time performance of the model.
The Interplay between Vitamin D Deficiency, Iron Status, and Anemia Risk in Moroccan Women of Reproductive Age: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Zouine Noura , Lhilali Ilham , Godderis Lode , El Midaoui Adil , El Jaafari Samir , Filali-Zegzouti Younes
Published: September 2024

Vitamin D and iron deficiencies are the most prevalent micronutrient deficiencies among women of reproductive age (WRA) in Morocco. Recent studies suggest that Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) may reduce iron bioavailability necessary for erythropoiesis, potentially leading to iron deficiency (ID) and anemia. This study investigates the association between vitamin D status, iron levels, and anemia risk among Moroccan WRA aged 18-49 years. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 463 participants. Serum levels of 25(OH)D, blood count parameters, iron, ferritin, C-reactive protein, and creatinine were measured. Lifestyle factors, including dietary intake, sun exposure, and physical activity, were evaluated using validated questionnaires, and anthropometric data were collected. Linear and logistic regression models assessed the relationships between variables, while Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis evaluated the predictive accuracy of VDD for ID and anemia. VDD (25(OH)D < 20 ng/ml) was significantly associated with lower levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells, and ferritin (all p < 0.01), suggesting a role of vitamin D in erythropoiesis and iron storage. Multivariate logistic regression showed that VDD increased the risk of anemia (OR: 7.17, 95% CI: 3.19-19.28, p < 0.001), ID (OR: 2.20, 95% CI: 1.32-3.77, p = 0.007), and IDA (OR: 4.10, 95% CI: 1.73-12.08, p = 0.004). Dietary iron intake was inadequate among all participants, with minimal protective effect against anemia and ID (β(SE): -0.08(0.03), p = 0.030 and β(SE): -0.05(0.02), p=0.037 respectively). ROC analysis demonstrated moderate discriminative power for VDD in diagnosing IDA and anemia (AUC: 0.643 and 0.603) but reduced accuracy for ID (AUC: 0.575). This study identifies VDD as a significant risk factor for impaired iron status and anemia among Moroccan WRA, underscoring the need for targeted nutritional interventions and further research to explore effective prevention strategies.
Development and Validation of a Diagnostic Algorithm for Down Syndrome Using Birth Certificate and International Classification of Diseases Codes
Authors: Ammar Lin , Bird Kristin , Nian Hui , Maxwell-Horn Angela , Lee Rees , Ding Tan , Riddell Corinne , Gebretsadik Tebeb , Snyder Brittney , Hartert Tina , Wu Pingsheng
Published: September 2024

Objective: To develop an algorithm that accurately identifies children with Down syndrome (DS) using administrative data. Methods: We identified a cohort of children born 2000-2017, enrolled in a state Medicaid program, who either had DS coded on the birth certificate or had a diagnosis listed using an International Classification of Diseases (ICD) code (suspected DS), and who received care at a comprehensive academic medical center in the United States. Children with suspected DS were defined as having DS if they had a) karyotype confirmed DS indicated on their birth certificate; b) karyotype pending DS indicated on their birth certificate (or just DS if test type was not specified) and at least two healthcare encounters for DS during the first 6 years of life; or c) at least three healthcare encounters for DS, with the first and last encounter separated by at least 30 days, during the first six years of life. Positive predictive value (PPV) of the algorithm and 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported. Results: Of the 411 children with suspected DS, 354 (86.1%) were defined as having DS by the algorithm. According to medical chart review, the algorithm correctly identified 347 children with DS (PPV=98%, 95%CI: 96.0%-99.0%). Of the 57 children the algorithm defined as not having DS, 50 (97.7%, 95%CI: 76.8%-93.9%) were confirmed not having DS by medical chart review. Conclusions: An algorithm that accurately identifies individuals with DS using birth certificate data and/or ICD codes provides a valuable tool to study DS using administrative data.
Integrating Business Ecosystems and Social Networks: A Case Study on Sustainable Transitions
Authors: Ribeiro Thiago Felippe , Nogueira Antonio Roberto , Chimenti Paula
Published: September 2024

This paper critically reviews the convergence between Business Ecosystem Theory and Social Network Theory in sustainability studies. While both frameworks view organizations as part of larger, interconnected systems, they can be differentiated by six key dimensions: unit of analysis, focus, decomposability, types of relationships, market segment, and worldview. To better reflect real-world phenomena, this paper argues for a new stream of theoretical convergence that is practical, reliable, generalizable, and reproducible. Specifically, it proposes shifting from interoganizational networks to interfunctional networks, which reduces complexity, enhances stability over time, and provides a clearer theoretical distinction. This is illustrated through a case study of Tesla Inc.’s ecosystem, built from data presented in the company’s 10K form, which also serves as an example of the emergence of a new strategic construct named the Business Ecosystem Footprint. This construct could assist managers in understanding where their organization stands within the network of functions, guiding them in making informed decisions about resource allocation and diversification, specifically aimed at supporting financial goals as well as sustainability and decarbonization objectives. The article concludes by suggesting potential research agendas, such as automating ecosystem mapping, exploring the constraints of the new construct, and testing new hypotheses related to firm performance.
A Study on Metallurge Process of Fe-P Applicable to Motor Core for XEV
Authors: Kang Seongsu , Lee Seonbong
Published: September 2024

This study explores the application of AncorLam HR (Höganäs, Sweden), a soft magnetic composite (SMC) material, in the stator core of an axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) drive motor. Building on previous research that provided mechanical and thermal properties of AncorLam HR, the study focuses on analyzing how the manufacturing process affects the motor core's shape. A bulk prototype was created based on Case 3, which demonstrated the least deviation in density and internal stress. The prototypes were produced under the specified conditions of SPM 7 and 90°C, resulting in an average density and simulation density error of 0.54%, which confirms the effectiveness of the process. To further verify the reliability, the microstructure of the AncorLam HR powder and the resulting bulk prototype was analyzed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements at 5mm, 20mm, and 25mm on Sample 2, which had the highest density, confirmed the consistency between simulation and prototype density trends. Additionally, electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis revealed a random orientation of the powder, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed consistent iron (Fe) peaks at 44.9°, 65.0°, and 82.3° in both the powder and bulk prototypes, indicating no significant change in the internal phase structure. Further analysis using energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) identified that the phosphorus (P) content was eliminated during the molding process, which led to the destruction of the insulating layer, a critical performance factor for SMC materials. In AFPM motor simulations, the average torque was measured at 34.5 mN·m, with core loss increasing as frequency increased. The observation of iron loss spikes during motor startup indicates the need for further research to optimize material selection. This study confirms the viability of using AncorLam HR in electric vehicle motor cores and provides essential data for improving the performance of AFPM motors. Future research should prioritize optimizing SMC materials to enhance the performance and efficiency of AFPM motor applications.
An Immunoinformatics Approach for Identifying and Designing Conserved Multi-Epitope Vaccines for Coronaviruses
Authors: Ong Yu Chuan , Tejo Bimo Ario , Yap Wei Boon
Published: September 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has exposed the vulnerabilities and unpreparedness of the global healthcare system in dealing with emerging zoonoses. In the past two decades, coronaviruses (CoV) have been responsible for three major viral outbreaks, and the likelihood of future outbreaks caused by these viruses is high and nearly inevitable. Therefore, effective prophylactic universal vaccines targeting multiple circulating and emerging coronavirus strains are warranted. This study utilized an immunoinformatic approach to identify evolutionarily conserved CD4+ (HTL) and CD8+ (CTL) T cells, and B-cell epitopes in the coronaviral spike (S) glycoprotein. A total of 132 epitopes were identified, with the majority of them found conserved in the bat CoV, pangolins CoV, endemic coronaviruses, SARS-CoV-2, and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Their peptide sequences were then aligned and assembled to identify the overlapping regions. Eventually, two major peptide assemblies were derived based on their promising immune-stimulating properties. In this light, they can serve as lead candidates for universal coronavirus vaccine development, particularly in the search for pan-coronavirus multi-epitope universal vaccines that can confer protection against current and novel coronaviruses.
Guinea Pigs in Balance: Impact of Diet on pH, Microbiota and Intestinal Performance
Authors: Cuenca-Condoy* Mercy , Campos-Murillo Nathalie , Quinteros-Rodas Wilson
Published: September 2024

The study assessed the impact of different diets on gastrointestinal pH, intestinal microbiota, digestive tract morphometry, and productive performance in guinea pigs. A total of 160 improved genotype guinea pigs were used, distributed into three groups with different diets: alfalfa (T1), alfalfa + concentrate (T2), and concentrate (T3), to which a mixture of probiotics combined with vitamins, minerals was added and amino acids in T2 and T3. Gastrointestinal pH showed significant differences between treatments in the various segments of the digestive tract. The intestinal microbiota varied according to the diet, with Escherichia coli being the predominant bacterium in weaned guinea pigs. Intestinal morphometry was significantly altered with the addition of a reinforced probiotic mixture, improving the length and density of intestinal villi. Productive parameters such as weight gain, feed consumption, and feed conversion were better in guinea pigs fed a mixed diet with 0.5% probiotic mixture. These results indicate that intestinal pH may influence microbial composition, which impacts productive efficiency and immune health, highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition and supplementation to optimize the health and performance of guinea pigs.
Plasmid DNA Delivery into the Skin via Electroporation with a Depot-Type Electrode
Authors: Yoshida Yuya , Aoki Manami , Nagase Kalin , Marubashi Koichi , Kojima Hiroyuki , Itakura Shoko , Komatsu Syuuhei , Sugibayashi Kenji , Todo Hiroaki
Published: September 2024

Non-viral mediated plasmid DNA transfection by electroporation (EP) is an established method for gene transfection. In this study, the usefulness of direct EP at an intradermal (i.d.) site (DEP) with implanted electrodes to achieve a high protein expression level was investigated. In addition, DEP application with various intervals with a low application voltage was also evaluated to confirm its effect on protein expression. A higher protein expression level was observed after green fluorescent protein (GFP)- and luciferase-encoding DNA were delivered by i.d. injection followed by DEP application. When luciferase expression was observed with an in vivo imaging system, continuous expression was confirmed over 21 days after i.d. injection followed by DEP at 100 V. This approach provided increased gene expression levels compared with conventional EP methods via the stratum corneum layer. In addition, the effect of application voltage on luciferase expression was investigated; two-time applications (repeated DEP) at 20 V with 5 min intervals showed similar luciferase expression level to single DEP application with 100 V. Histological observations showed the skin became thicker after a single DEP at 100 V, whereas no apparent thickness changes was confirmed after repeated DEP at 20 V with 5 min intervals. This study revealed that direct i.d. voltage application achieved high protein expression levels even at low voltages. Skin is a promising administration site for DNA vaccines, so this approach may be effective in DNA vaccine delivery into skin tissue.
Research on Flicker Effect in Modern Light Sources Powered from Electrical Network
Authors: Masnicki Romuald , Mindykowski Janusz , Palczynska Beata , Palczynska Beata
Published: September 2024

Disruptions in power quality have a negative impact on many energy consumers. These include lighting, where interference manifests itself, among others, in the form of light flickering. The article presents phenomena accompanying the operation of modern light sources against the background of exemplary results of studies on the flicker of conventional light sources, such as incandescent or fluorescent lamps. To assess the effects of these phenomena, it is necessary to use measures other than those traditionally used. The results of measurements carried out in accordance with different recommendations take into account both power supply disturbances and the properties of modern light sources.
Impact of Wetting and Drying Cycles on the Hydromechanical Properties of Soil and Stability of the Earth Infrastructure
Authors: Shah Syed Samran Ali , Turrakheil Kanishka Sauis , NAVEED MUHAMMAD
Published: September 2024

The earth infrastructure is the backbone of the global economy, connecting people, enhancing quality of life, and promoting health and safety. However, its vulnerabilities are becoming apparent due to climate change, mainly through frequent wetting and drying (wd) cycles. This study aimed to assess the impact of controlled w-d cycles on the hydromechanical properties of clayey and silty sand soils and its implications for the performance of a typical flood embankment. Volumetric changes were monitored during the w-d cycles. Soil water characteristic curve (SWCC), saturated hydraulic conductivity (ksat), effective cohesion (c’) and effective angle of internal friction (ϕ’) were measured at 1 and 10 w-d cycles. The results indicated that the 10 w-d cycles decreased the saturated moisture content and a flatter SWCC compared to the 1 w-d cycle for clayey soil. The ksat was also significantly higher at 10 w-d cycles than the 1 w-d cycle for clayey soil. An insignificant difference was found in both SWCC and ksat at 1 and 10 w-d cycles for silty sand soil. The ϕ’ for the clayey soil decreased from 28.5 to 20.1 as the wd cycles increased from 1 to 10, while the c’ remained unchanged at 10 kN/m2. On the other hand, for the silty sand soil, the ϕ’ increased from 34.6 to 37.5 with an increase in w-d cycles from 1 to 10, and the c’ remained constant at 1 kN/m2. Numerical modelling of transient water flow coupled with slope stability analysis revealed the dependence of flood embankment performance on the soil's hydromechanical properties and the flooding duration. These findings underscore the need for proactive measures to mitigate landslide risks in regions prone to frequent w-d cycles, thereby ensuring the safety and resilience of slopes and associated infrastructure.
Paying Homage to Microvessel Remodeling and Small Vessel Disease in Neurodegeneration: Implications for the Development of Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hayden Melvin Ray
Published: September 2024

The microvessel neurovascular unit with its brain endothelial cell (BEC) and blood-brain barrier remodeling is important in the development of impaired cognition in sporadic or late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) and vascular dementia or vascular cognitive impairment and dementia including cerebral amyloid angiopathy in neurodegeneration. LOAD is considered to be the number one cause of dementia globally; however, when one considers the role of mixed dementia (MD) (the combination of both the amyloid cascade hypothesis and the vascular hypothesis of LOAD), it becomes apparent that MD is the number one cause. The microvessel BECs are the first cells in the brain to be exposed to the peripheral neurotoxins of the systemic circulation and are therefore the brain cells at the highest risk for early and chronic injury. Therefore, it is not surprising that microvessel BECs are the first cells to undergo injury and the response to injury wound healing mechanism and remodeling that is excessive and recurrent in the aging process plus other age-related diseases such as cerebro-cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, Parkinson’s disease, plus others. This narrative review explores the intricate relationship between microvessel remodeling, cerebral small vessel disease (SVD), and neurodegeneration as occurs in LOAD. Further, it discusses the current understanding of how microvessel dysfunction, disruption, and pathology contribute to the pathogenesis of LOAD and thus, highlights potential avenues for therapeutic interventions.
Toward Smart SCADA Systems in the Hydropower Plants through Integrating Data Mining-based Knowledge Discovery Modules
Authors: Grigoras Gheorghe , Garbea Razvan , Neagu Bogdan-Constantin
Published: September 2024

The increasing importance of hydropower generation has led to the development of new smart technologies and the need for reliable and efficient equipment in this field. As long as hydropower power plants are more complex to build up than other power plants, the operation regimes and maintenance activities become essential for the hydropower companies to optimize their performance, such that including the data-driven approaches in the decision-making process represents a challenge. In the paper, a comprehensive and multi-task framework integrated into a Knowledge Discovery module based on Data Mining to support the decisions of the operators from the control rooms and facilitate the transition from the classical to smart Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system in hydropower plants has been designed, developed, and tested. It integrates tasks related to detecting the outliers through advanced statistical procedures, identifying the operating regimes through the patterns associated with typical operating profiles, and developing strategies for loading the generation units that consider the number of operating hours and minimize the water amount used to satisfy the power required by the system. The proposed framework has been tested using the SCADA system's database of a hydropower plant belonging to the Romanian HydroPower Company. The framework can offer the operators from the control room comparative information for a time horizon longer than one year. The tests demonstrated the utility of a Knowledge Discovery module to ensure the transition toward smart SCADA systems that will help the decision-makers improve the management of the hydropower plants.
Sensorless Detection of Mechanical Unbalance in Servodrive with Elastic Coupling
Authors: Pajchrowski Tomasz , Wicher Bartłomiej , Ewert Pawel
Published: September 2024

The article focusses on detecting the unbalance of a mechanical component in the electric drive system of a two-mass servomechanism with a PMSM motor, which is connected to the load via a long, flexible shaft. In the example analysed, the degree of unbalance was determined using the reference current signal from the speed controller of the FOC control system. The authors pre-sented a two-mass model with an unbalanced mechanical system. The STFT transform was used to analyse the symptoms of unbalance and an artificial neural network MLP was used for system state inference. The effectiveness of the presented analysis, based on the reference current signal from the sensor embedded in the control system, was experimentally confirmed.
Eco-Design of Thermopressing through Induction of 100% Coriander-Based Fiberboards: Optimization of Molding Conditions
Authors: Guaygua-Amaguaña Priscila Anabel , Vaca-Medina Guadalupe , Vialle Claire , Sablayrolles Caroline , Evon Philippe
Published: September 2024

The hot pressing process for 100% coriander-based fiberboards was optimized using an induction RocTool system, which offers rapid mold heating and cooling. The fiberboards were made with deoiled press cake as a proteic binder and extrusion-refined straw as reinforcement. A Doehlert’s experimental design evaluated the influence of pressure (10-50 MPa), molding time (60-300 s), and mold temperature (155-205°C) on fiberboard properties, energy consumption, cost, and environmental impact. The results showed that the RocTool device allows better temperature control during shaping, resulting in exacerbated adhesive properties for proteins. Using the isoresponse curves, optimal hot pressing conditions were 35 MPa, 300 s, and 205°C, corresponding to a 40.6 MPa flexural strength. However, it was observed that to achieve a MDF-like fiberboard with minimal production cost, much less restrictive molding conditions were sufficient, i.e., 32.5 MPa, 170 s, and 160°C. The study revealed that maximum thermopressing conditions emitted 3.87 kg of CO2 eq., while conditions leading to the MDF-like board reduced emissions to 1.45 kg CO2 eq., resulting in a more environmentally-friendly material.
The Role of Polysaccharide Polymers in the Regulation of Angiogenesis and Atherogenic Inflammation in the Wall of Arterial Vessels. Analytical Review
Authors: Bolshakov Igor Nikolaevich , Shindyakin Dmitry Vasilievich , Bahshyan Valentina Arturovna , Kirichenko Andrey Konstantinovich
Published: September 2024

Damage to peripheral arteries by the atherosclerotic process accounts for about 3% of the world's population, which puts this problem in the category of major social problems. Modified lipoproteins and cholesterol crystals are known to accumulate in the arterial intima and cause the formation of proatherogenic macrophages, foam cells, and inflammation. Defective efferocytosis of apoptotic foam cells leads to the formation of a necrotic core, a sign of failure to resolve inflammation. Resolution of inflammation is mediated by specialized pro-resorption lipid mediators, proteins and signaling gases. Improving the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors contributes to the reverse development of local atherogenesis. Active direct intervention in the reconstruction of the adventitial layer of the arterial wall using cholesterol-affinity polysaccharide hydrogels containing a cocktail of growth factors creates conditions for the formation of additional extracellular matrix and reversal of cholesterol mass from the subintimal zone. Creating concentration and electrostatic gradients in the adventitia zone using a hydrogel may be one of the effective ways to degrade early soft atherogenic plaques and locally restore the damaged structure of the vessel wall. Growing scientific interest in the previously insufficiently studied adventitia indicates its important role in angionesis and atherogenesis.