bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Development of Emerging Indoor Wireless Networks towards 6G
Authors: Edirisinghe Sampath , Galagedarage Orga , Dias Imali , Ranaweera Chathurika
Published: May 2023

Sixth-generation (6G) mobile technology is currently under development, and is envisioned to fulfill the requirements of a fully connected world, providing ubiquitous wireless connectivity for diverse users and emerging applications. Transformative solutions are expected to drive the surge to accommodate a rapidly growing number of intelligent devices and services. In this regard, wireless local area networks (WLANs) have a major role to play in indoor spaces, from supporting explosive growth in high-bandwidth applications to massive sensor arrays with diverse network requirements. Sixth-generation technology is expected to have a superconvergence of networks, including WLANs, to support this growth in applications in multiple dimensions. To this end, this paper comprehensively reviews the latest developments in diverse WLAN technologies, including WiFi, visible light communication, and optical wireless communication networks, as well as their technical capabilities. This paper also discusses how well these emerging WLANs align with supporting 6G requirements. The analyses presented in the paper provide insight into the research opportunities that need to be investigated to overcome the challenges in integrating WLANs in a 6G ecosystem.
Assessment of Exoskeletons on Nurses’ Quality of Work Life: A Pilot Study at Foch Hospital
Authors: Farah Line , Roll Dorota , Sorais Amrei , Vallée Alexandre
Published: May 2023

Background: The prevention of occupational risks is part of the quality of work life and it is a component that improves the physical work environment. The purpose of the present study was to investigate how to maintain posture and to reduce pain and fatigue for nurses, with an exoskeleton adapted to the work at hospital. Methods: The exoskeleton was used between 2022 to 2023 at Foch Hospital, France. Phase 1 consisted of the selection of the exoskeleton, and Phase 2 included the testing of the device by the nurses and a questionnaire to assess it. Results: The “active” ATLAS model from JAPET, ensuring lumbar protection, was selected because it corresponds to all the specification criteria to tackle the nurses’ unmet need. Among the 14 healthcare professionals, 86% were women; the age of the nurses was between 23 years old and 58 years old. The global median satisfaction score of the nurses relative to the use of the exoskeleton was 6/10. The median impact of the exoskeleton on nurses’ fatigue was 7/10. Conclusions: The implementation of the exoskeleton received global positive qualitative feedback from the nurses concerning the improvement of posture and the reduction in fatigue and pain.
Molecular Detection of Cryptosporidium Species in Wildlife and Humans at the Wildlife-Human Interface around Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Authors: Mugasa Claire Mack , Mirembe Bernadette Basuta , Ochwo Sylvester , Nkamwesiga Joseph , Ndekezi Christian , Tusabe Tobias , Musoba Abubakar , Kankya Clovice
Published: May 2023

To date, information on Cryptosporidium spp. infection status among people and wild animals living at the wildlife-human interface such as Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is scarce. The aim of this study is to document the molecular detection of Cryptosporidium spp. in wild animals, and people, around QENP in the Kasese District. A total of 308 patients from four health centres and 252 wildlife animals from six species across 13 sampling areas were analysed microscopically and with PCR for Cryptosporidium spp. detection. The parasitological and molecular prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in humans was 40% and 53%, respectively; Kasenyi Health Centre recorded the highest percentage of positive stool samples for both tests. Wildlife species had an overall molecular percentage positivity of 30.16%; however, considering individual animal species that were sampled, the Waterbucks had the highest positivity rate, that is, 54.54%. All the samples were confirmed as genus Cryptosporidium with less species discrimination as our PCR target was a short fragment. There is a need to investigate the risk factors that predispose to high Cryptosporidium infection in the study area, especially in Kasenyi. In-depth investigation of the genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium spp. circulating at the human, livestock, and wildlife interface is imperative in devising disease management strategies.
Semi-Quantitative Risk Assessment of African Swine Fever Virus Introduction in Outdoor Pig Farms
Authors: Rusinà Alessia , Valentini Francesco , Scollo Annalisa , Franceschini Giorgio , Salvato Sara , Cappa Veronica , Bellato Alessandro , Mannelli Alessandro , Bellini Silvia
Published: May 2023

In a previous study, a semi-quantitative risk assessment was developed to rank pig holdings in terms of likelihood of introducing African swine fever virus (ASFV) by assessing their compliance with biosecurity and exposure to geographical risk factors. The method was initially developed for confined pig holdings, but given that ASF is endemic in wild boar of several countries, we modified the approach to make it suitable for free-range farms as well. In the current study, a total of 41 outdoor pig farms were assessed in an area where exposure to wild boar was generally high (density from 2.3 to 10.3 wild boar per Km2). As expected, non-compliance with biosecurity measures was frequent in outdoor farms, and the frequency of non-compliance indicated that the absence of adequate separation of pigs from the external environment was the major weakness in the farms assessed. In 46.3% of them, there was no fence or, if present, it was not adequate to avoid contact with wild boar. However, the approach adopted proved to be suitable for identifying intervention priorities to mitigate the risk of ASFV spread in free-range pig herds and for identifying the weaknesses of individual farms, as recommended by EFSA in 2021, which suggests implementing tools to improve biosecurity by favoring higher-risk farms.
Effect of Food on the Pediatric Dispersible Tablet Formulations of TRIUMEQ and DOVATO in Healthy Adult Participants
Authors: Chandasana Hardik , Marnoch Ryan , McKenna Michael , Double Julia , Seal Ciara , Bontempo Gilda , Wolstenholme Allen , Buchanan Ann
Published: May 2023

This randomized food effect study in healthy adult participants examined dispersible tablet formulations of fixed-dose combinations of dolutegravir/abacavir/lamivudine (TRIUMEQ) and dolutegravir/lamivudine (DOVATO). While adult tablet formulations of these combinations are currently approved for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus, alternate formulations for children are urgently needed to facilitate appropriate pediatric dosing for patients who may have difficulty swallowing a conventional tablet. This study compared the effect of a high-fat, high-calorie meal on the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of dispersible tablet (DT) formulations of the two-drug and three-drug regimens, with administration under fasting conditions. Both the two-drug and three-drug dispersible tablet formulations, administered under fasting conditions and following a high-fat, high-calorie meal, were well tolerated in healthy participants. There were no clinically relevant differences in drug exposure for either regimen when administered with a high-fat meal as compared to under fasting conditions. Safety observations were similar for both treatments, either in the fed or fasted state. Both TRIUMEQ DT and DOVATO DT formulations can be administer with or without food.
Targeted Fisetin-Encapsulated β-Cyclodextrin Nanosponges for Breast Cancer
Authors: Aboushanab Alaa R. , El-Moslemany Riham M. , El-Kamel Amal H. , Mehanna Radwa A. , Bakr Basant A. , Ashour Asmaa A.
Published: May 2023

Fisetin (FS) is considered a safer phytomedicine alternative to conventional chemotherapeutics for breast cancer treatment. Despite its surpassing therapeutic potential, its clinical utility is hampered by its low systemic bioavailability. Accordingly, as far as we are aware, this is the first study to develop lactoferrin-coated FS-loaded β-cyclodextrin nanosponges (LF-FS-NS) for targeted FS delivery to breast cancer. NS formation through cross-linking of β-cyclodextrin by diphenyl carbonate was confirmed by FTIR and XRD. The selected LF-FS-NS showed good colloidal properties (size 52.7 ± 7.2 nm, PDI < 0.3, and ζ-potential 24 mV), high loading efficiency (96 ± 0.3%), and sustained drug release of 26 % after 24 h. Morphological examination using SEM revealed the mesoporous spherical structure of the prepared nanosponges with a pore diameter of ~30 nm, which was further confirmed by surface area measurement. Additionally, LF-FS-NS enhanced FS oral and IP bioavailability (2.5- and 3.2-fold, respectively) compared to FS suspension in rats. Antitumor efficacy evaluation in vitro on MDA-MB-231 cells and in vivo on an Ehrlich ascites mouse model demonstrated significantly higher activity and targetability of LF-FS-NS (30 mg/kg) compared to the free drug and uncoated formulation. Consequently, LF-FS-NS could be addressed as a promising formulation for the effective management of breast cancer.
The Effect of Functionalized Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes with Fe and Mn Oxides on Lactuca sativa L.
Authors: Podar Dorina , Boza Camelia-Loredana , Lung Ildiko , Soran Maria-Loredana , Culicov Otilia , Stegarescu Adina , Opriş Ocsana , Ciorîță Alexandra , Nekhoroshkov Pavel
Published: May 2023

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of six nanomaterials, namely CNT-COOH, CNT-MnO2, CNT-Fe3O4, CNT-MnO2-Fe3O4, MnO2, and Fe3O4 on lettuceTo determine the impact of nanomaterials on lettuce, the results obtained were compared with those for the control plant, grown in the same conditions of light, temperature, and humidity but without the addition of nanomaterial. The study found that the content of bioactive compounds and the antioxidant capacity varied in the treated plants compared to the control ones, depending on the nanomaterial. The use of CNTs functionalized with metal oxides increases the elemental concentration of lettuce leaves for the majority of the elements. On the contrary, metal oxide nanoparticles and CNT functionalized with carboxyl groups induce a decrease in the concentration of many elements. Soil amending with MnO2 affects the content of more than ten elements in leaves. Simultaneous application of CNT and MnO2 stimulates the elemental translocation of all elements from roots to leaves, but the simultaneous use of CNT and Fe3O4 leads to the most intense translocation compared to the control other than Mo.
Tartary Buckwheat Bran: A Review of Its Chemical Composition, Processing Methods and Food Uses
Authors: Noda Takahiro , Ishiguro Koji , Suzuki Tatsuro , Morishita Toshikazu
Published: May 2023

Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.) containing large amounts of functional compounds with antioxidant activity, such as rutin, has attracted substantial research attention due to its industrial applications. Particularly, the functional compounds in Tartary buckwheat bran, an unexploited byproduct of the buckwheat flour milling process, are more concentrated than those in Tartary buckwheat flour. Thus, Tartary buckwheat bran is deemed to be a potential material for making functional foods. However, a review that comprehensively summarizes the research on Tartary buckwheat bran is lacking. Therefore, we highlighted current studies on the chemical composition of Tartary buckwheat bran. Moreover, the processing method and food uses of Tartary buckwheat bran are also discussed.
Bioclimatic Characterisation of Specific Native Californian Pinales and Their Future Suitability under Climate Change
Authors: González-Pérez Alejandro , Álvarez-Esteban Ramón , Penas Ángel , del Río Sara
Published: May 2023

Rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns under climate change scenarios are accelerating the depletion of soil moisture and increasing the risk of drought, disrupting the conditions that many plant species need to survive. This study aims to establish the bioclimatic characterisation, both qualitative and quantitative, of ten native Californian Pinales for the period 1980–2019, and to determine their habitat suitability by 2050. To achieve this, an exhaustive search of the Gbif database for records of ten conifer taxa was carried out. To conduct the bioclimatic characterisation of the studied taxa, we worked with the monthly values of average temperature and precipitation for the period 1980–2019 from 177 meteorological stations. Linear regressions was performed in order to compile the future evolution of California’s climate. Suitable areas and optimal areas were defined at the present time (1980–2019) and its future projection (2050). We applied Boolean logic and, in this investigation, the Conditional Logic Operator (CON) was used to determine the possible species presence (one) or absence (zero) for each of the 15 variables analysed. In general, most of the conifers studied here will experience a reduction in their habitat range in California by the year 2050 due to climate change, as well as the displacement of species towards optimal areas. Furthermore, the results have highlighted the applicability of bioclimatology to future conditions under climate change. This will aid conservation managers in implementing strategic measures to ameliorate the detrimental impacts of climate change, thereby ensuring the ecological integrity and sustainability of the affected conifer species.
Extinction Risk Assessment and Chemical Composition of Aerial Parts Essential Oils from Two Endangered Endemic Malagasy Salvia Species
Authors: Rakotonandrasana Stéphan R. , Paoli Mathieu , Randrianirina Mamy J. , Ihandriharison Harilala , Gibernau Marc , Bighelli Ange , Rakotoarisoa Marrino F. , Tomi Pierre , Andrianjara Charles , Tomi Félix , Rabehaja Delphin J. R.
Published: May 2023

Seven essential oil samples of two endemic species of Malagasy sage, Salvia sessilifolia Baker and Salvia leucodermis Baker, were investigated via GC(RI), GC-MS and 13C NMR spectrometry. In total, 81compounds were identified accounting for 93.5% to 98.7% of the total composition. The main constituents for the both species were (E)-β-caryophyllene (29.2% to 60.1%), myrcene (1.2% to 21.7%), α-humulene (5.2% to 19.7%), (E)-nerolidol (0.8% to 15.5%) and caryophyllene oxide (1.4% to 10.8%). Ethnobotanical survey of 46 informants revealed that decoctions of leafy twigs and chewed leaves were usually used. Due to the repeated fires, over-harvesting and grazing, the populations of S. sessilifolia and S. leucodermis are drastically fragmented. These risk factors led to threats to the habitats of the target species. Salvia sessilifolia Baker and Salvia leucodermis Baker are proposed to be classified as endangered species.
Anti-Cancer Agent: The Labdane Diterpenoid-Andrographolide
Authors: Tundis Rosa , Patra Jayanta Kumar , Bonesi Marco , Das Subrata , Nath Rajat , Das Talukdar Anupam , Das Gitishree , Loizzo Monica Rosa
Published: May 2023

In spite of the progress in treatment strategies, cancer remains a major cause of death worldwide. Therefore, the main challenge should be the early diagnosis of cancer and the design of an optimal therapeutic strategy to increase the patient’s life expectancy as well as the continuation of the search for increasingly active and selective molecules for the treatment of different forms of cancer. In the recent decades, research in the field of natural compounds has increasingly shifted towards advanced and molecular level understandings, thus leading to the development of potent anti-cancer agents. Among them is the diterpene lactone andrographolide, isolated from Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. ex Nees that showed shows a plethora of biological activities, including not only anti-cancer activity, but also anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, and immunomodulatory properties. Andrographolide has been shown to act as an anti-tumor drug by affecting specific molecular targets that play a part in the development and progression of several cancer types including breast, lung, colon, renal, and cervical cancer, as well as leukemia and hepatocarcinoma. This review comprehensively and systematically summarized the current research on the potential anti-cancer properties of andrographolide highlighting its mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and potential side effects and discussing the future perspectives, challenges, and limitations of use.
Tough Structural Adhesives with Ultra-Resistance to Both High and Cryogenic Temperature
Authors: Niu Hui , Wang Shengtao , Shen Yilin , Liu Shouqing , Jiang Shuyang , Qin Tao , Li Taohong
Published: May 2023

Structural adhesion at high temperature has been a challenge for organic adhesives, and the commercially available adhesives that can work at a temperature above 150 °C is rather limited. Herein, two novel polymers were designed and synthesized via facile strategy, which involves polymerization between melamine (M) and M–Xylylenediamine (X), as well as copolymerization of MX and urea (U). With well-balanced rigid-flexible structures, the obtained MX and MXU resins were proved to be outstanding structural adhesives at a wide range temperature of −196~200 °C. They provided room-temperature bonding strength of 13~27 MPa for various substrates, steel bonding strength of 17~18 MPa at cryogenic temperature (−196 °C), and 15~17 MPa at 150 °C. Remarkably, high bonding strength of 10~11 MPa was retained even at 200 °C. Such superior performances were attributed to a high content of aromatic units, which leads to high glass transition temperature (Tg) up to ~179 °C, as well as the structural flexibility endowed by the dispersed rotatable methylene linkages.
Preparation and Characterization of Soybean Protein Adhesives Modified with an Environmental-Friendly Tannin-Based Resin
Authors: Li Hanyin , Wang Yujie , Xie Wenwen , Tang Yang , Yang Fan , Gong Chenrui , Wang Chao , Li Xiaona , Li Cheng
Published: May 2023

Soybean protein-based adhesives are limited in their application due to their poor wet bonding strength and poor water resistance. Herein, we prepared a novel, environmentally friendly soybean protein-based adhesive by adding tannin-based resin (TR) to improve the performance of water resistance and wet bonding strength. The active sites of TR reacted with the soybean protein and its functional groups and formed strong cross-linked network structures, which improved the cross-link density of the adhesives and then improved the water resistance. The residual rate increased to 81.06% when 20 wt%TR was added, and the water resistance bonding strength reached 1.07 MPa, which fully met the Chinese national requirements for plywood (Class II, ≥0.7 MPa). SEM observations were performed on the fracture surfaces of all modified SPI adhesives after curing. The modified adhesive has a denser and smooth cross-section. Based on the TG and DTG plots, the thermal stability performance of the TR-modified SPI adhesive was improved when TR was added. The total weight loss of the adhesive decreased from 65.13% to 58.87%. This study provides a method for preparing low-cost and high-performance, environmentally friendly adhesives.
Bayesian Estimation of Latent Space Item Response Models with JAGS, Stan, and NIMBLE in R
Authors: Luo Jinwen , De Carolis Ludovica , Zeng Biao , Jeon Minjeong
Published: May 2023

The latent space item response model (LSIRM) is a newly-developed approach to analyzing and visualizing conditional dependencies in item response data, manifested as the interactions between respondents and items, between respondents, and between items. This paper provides a practical guide to the Bayesian estimation of LSIRM using three open-source software options, JAGS, Stan, and NIMBLE in R. By means of an empirical example, we illustrate LSIRM estimation, providing details on the model specification and implementation, convergence diagnostics, model fit evaluations and interaction map visualizations.
“We’re Looking for Support from Allah”: A Qualitative Study on the Experiences of Trauma and Religious Coping among Afghan Refugees in Canada Following the August 2021 Withdrawal
Authors: Gokani Ravi , Wiebe Stephanie , Sherzad Hakmatullah , Akesson Bree
Published: May 2023

In August 2021, the United States withdrew from Afghanistan after 20 years. The fall of the Afghan government to the Taliban resulted in the displacement of some Afghans. Canada committed to welcoming thousands of refugees. Research suggests that refugees tend to have higher rates of post-traumatic stress, and Afghan refugees, in particular, have among the highest rates. Another body of literature suggests that religious coping has positive effects. This paper presents qualitative data from interviews with 11 Afghan refugees who arrived in Ontario after August 2021 with the intent to combine these two findings. In so doing, we sought to understand how Afghan refugees described their experiences of displacement and the extent to which those experiences were traumatic, but also how they relied on Islam to cope with the traumatic effects of displacement. The interviews we conducted suggested that our participants experienced exposure to death, exposure to threat of death and/or injury, and described some of symptoms of the criteria for PTSD. The interviews also suggested that the participants coped using Islamic concepts, beliefs, and rituals. The qualitative data we present provide rich descriptions of the experiences of trauma in the face of displacement and religious coping.
Holy Communion in Greek Orthodoxy in the Time of Coronavirus: Ideological Perspectives in Conflict
Authors: Kessareas Efstathios
Published: May 2023

This article examines the controversy over the mode of distribution of Holy Communion that surfaced during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on debates that took place in the Greek Orthodox community. After describing and evaluating the role of secular and religious experts in the context of the pandemic, the paper analyzes three main perspectives on the issue of the Eucharist: (1) the secularist-rationalist viewpoint; (2) the religious–traditionalist outlook; and (3) the “Third Way” perspective. The paper argues that the Church’s Holy Communion controversy is indicative of a deeper struggle between religious and secular thinkers and among various voices in the Greek Orthodox Church concerning the latter’s place in, and influence over, the modern secular socio-political order.
The Mediatization of Religious Practices in Urban Daily Life: The Peruvian Case
Authors: Perez-Vela Rolando
Published: May 2023

The public face of religion in Latin America is undergoing constant transformation, and its relocation in the public sphere is part of a broader process of cultural and social change. This contemporary religious scene is characterized by a plurality of voices generated not only by traditional ecclesiastical institutions, but also by diverse practices and discourses where mediatization processes play an important role. This paper will examine how urban believers—mainly Catholics and evangelicals—are reconstructing and negotiating their religious identity and belonging, as well as their interactions in everyday life as participants in wider social contexts beyond traditional religious institutions in Lima, Peru, South America. It addresses questions such as how mediatized religious practices shape and re-signify religious identity, and how mediated religion facilitates the creation of new meanings, forms, and approaches of public engagement. I will also discuss how lived religion shapes the communicative practices and strategies of believers who are living out their beliefs in ways that go beyond traditional sacred places and spheres of secularity. This paper is part of a research project called “The Transformation of Lived Religion in Urban Latin America: A Study of Contemporary Latin Americans’ Experience of the Transcendent.”
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Rainfall and Droughts in a Semiarid Basin of Brazil: Land Use and Land Cover Dynamics
Authors: de Barros de Sousa Lizandra , de Assunção Montenegro Abelardo Antônio , da Silva Marcos Vinícius , Almeida Thayná Alice Brito , de Carvalho Ailton Alves , da Silva Thieres George Freire , de Lima João Luis Mendes Pedroso
Published: May 2023

Precipitation estimation is a challenging task, especially in regions where its spatial distribution is irregular and highly variable. This study evaluated the spatial distribution of annual rainfall in a semiarid Brazilian basin under different regimes and its impact on land use and land cover dynamics. Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Stations (CHIRPS) records and observed data from 40 weather stations over a time series of 55 years were used, in addition to the Standardized Precipitation Index. Spatiotemporal analysis was carried out based on geostatistics. Remote sensing images were also interpreted for different rainfall regimes using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index and Modified Normalized Difference Water Index. The Gaussian semivariogram model best represented the rainfall spatial structure, showing strong spatial dependence. Results indicated that rainfall amount in the basin significantly increases with elevation, as expected. There is high variation in the dynamics of water storage that can threaten water security in the region. Our findings point out that the application of geostatistics for mapping both the annual precipitation and the Standardized Precipitation Index provides a powerful framework to support hydrological analysis, as well as land use and land cover management in semiarid regions.
Investigation and Improvement of Test Methods for Capacitance and DCESR of EDLC Cells
Authors: Xie Xiong , Li Xu , Xu Junqiang , Dong Lichun
Published: May 2023

The quick and accurate characterization of commercial electrochemical double-layer capacitor (EDLC) cells, especially their capacitance and direct-current equivalent series internal resistance (DCESR), is of great significance for the design, maintenance, and monitoring of EDLCs used in areas of energy, sensors, electric power, construction machinery, rail transit, automobile transportation, and military. In this study, the capacitance and DCESR of three commercial EDLC cells with similar performance were determined and compared by following the three commonly-used standards of IEC 62391, Maxwell, and QC/T741-2014, which are significantly different in test procedures and calculation methods. The analysis of the test procedures and results demonstrated that the IEC 62391 standard has the disadvantages of a large testing current, long testing time, and a complex and inaccurate DCESR calculation, whereas the Maxwell standard has the disadvantages of a large testing current, a small capacitance, and large DCESR testing results, and furthermore the QC/T 741 standard has the disadvantages of a high resolution requirement for the equipment and small DCESR results. Therefore, an improved method was proposed to determine the capacitance and DCESR of EDLC cells by short-time constant voltage charging and discharging interruption methods, respectively, with the advantages of high accuracy, low equipment requirements, short testing time, and the easy calculation of DCESR over the original three standards.
Hoarding Disorder: A Sociological Perspective
Authors: Ricci Giovanna , Gibelli Filippo , Bailo Paolo , Caraffa Anna Maria , Casamassima Maria Angela , Sirignano Ascanio
Published: May 2023

Hoarding disorder (HD) is a recently recognized psychiatric condition, now classified under the category of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It leads to an unwarranted attachment to material possessions, such that the individual is unable to separate themselves from them. There is still a lack of awareness of the critical sociological implications of this disorder, which is too often considered a purely health-related issue. This article endeavors to frame hoarding disorder from a unique socio-criminological and legal perspective, proposing an alternative approach to HD that considers it not only as a mental disorder, but also as a genuine societal issue. We also explore potential avenues for protection, considering both the well-being of individuals with this mental disorder and the communities in which individuals suffering from HD reside. This paper presents a fresh perspective on HD, aiming to delineate its impact and significance as an affliction affecting both individuals and society at large.
Assessment of the Factors Influencing the Performance of the Adoption of Green Logistics in Urban Tourism in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor
Authors: Vithayaporn Sanhakot , Nitivattananon Vilas , Sasaki Nophea , Santoso Djoen San
Published: May 2023

Tourism plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth, but it can also contribute significantly to environmental degradation, particularly in urban areas where there is a high concentration of local residents and visitors. Tourism is crucial for economic development but can also harm the environment, particularly in urban areas where both locals and tourists are concentrated. Adopting green logistics is important for promoting sustainable urban tourism while minimizing environmental impact. However, little research has been conducted on this topic in Thailand. This study aimed to identify the factors that influence the performance of green logistics in urban tourism activities in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 leading logistics enterprises and five major factors were identified: The implementation of a green transportation system, the level of the environmental management system, the enhancement of reverse logistics, the level of government governance, and the perceived usefulness of green logistics for logistics enterprises. The research found that both the government and enterprises play a key role in initiating green logistics, and this action is the mechanism behind the identified factors. The study’s holistic perspective on the contributions of green logistics to urban tourism has academic implications and can inform decisions on enhancing and improving green logistics performance for sustainable regional development. The study concludes with implications and recommendations for future research.
A Bibliometric and Literature Review: Alignment of Green Finance and Carbon Trading
Authors: Mashari Dian Permata Sari , Zagloel Teuku Yuri M. , Soesilo Tri Edhi Budhi , Maftuchah Istiana
Published: May 2023

The issue of climate change is highly related to carbon emissions. One of the practical efforts to reduce carbon emissions is through carbon trading and offset mechanisms. Implementing carbon trading demands massive funding allocation, which requires sustainable financial policy arrangements from the government and the private sector as an instrument to support nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement. However, only a few review articles look into the specific combination of green finance (also known as sustainable financing) and the carbon trading mechanism. In this study, we aim to review research on green finance and its association to the emission reduction and carbon trading. We utilized the VOSviewer framework to perform a bibliometric analysis on the Scopus database, and performed search, identification, and screening processes using selected relevant keywords. We obtained 506 articles from 2014 to 2022 related to sustainable finance and carbon trading aspects. Using rigorous bibliometric approaches, we identified both established and recent research clusters for topological analysis, identification of major research subjects, interdependencies, and trends in collaborative effort. The results indicate that there is ample room for additional research to link carbon trading with green finance initiatives or financing, which can improve the success of carbon trading activities.
Assessment of Psychological Zone of Optimal Performance among Professional Athletes: EGA and Item Response Theory Analysis
Authors: Li Bing , Ding Cody , Shi Huiying , Fan Fenghui , Guo Liya
Published: May 2023

Sport psychology researchers have been investigating athletes’ ideal performance levels for a long time. Key areas of investigation in this field involve determining if there is an optimal performance zone and how to evaluate it. To advance this line of research, the current research aimed to create a short but reliable tool for assessing the psychological state of professional athletes during their peak performance, known as the “optimal performance zone”. After developing an initial item pool, the final 10-item scale was retained and validated using factor analytical models and item response theory analysis based on 357 Chinese professional athletes in 12 different sports types. The average age of the participants was 19.4 years (SD = 3.67), and 54% were male. Experience in the sport ranged from 2 to 15 years, with a mean of 5.82 years (SD = 3.65). The brief scale was found to form a one-factor solution, with factor loading ranging from 0.55 to 0.77. The IRT-based marginal reliability of this scale is 0.90, and the scale showed predictive validity in predicting an athlete’s professional ranking (χ2(3) = 8.34, p = 0.039). The brief scale can quickly screen for a psychological zone of optimal performance among professional athletes, and implications are discussed.
Assessment of Knowledge on Metal Trace Element Concentrations and Metallothionein Biomarkers in Cetaceans
Authors: Leignel Vincent , Pillot Louis , Gerpe Marcela , Caurant Florence
Published: May 2023

Cetaceans are recognized as bioindicators of pollution in oceans. These marine mammals are final trophic chain consumers and easily accumulate pollutants. For example, metals are abundant in oceans and commonly found in the cetacean tissues. Metallothioneins (MTs) are small non-enzyme proteins involved in metal cell regulation and are essential in many cellular processes (cell proliferation, redox balance, etc.). Thus, the MT levels and the concentrations of metals in cetacean tissue are positively correlated. Four types of metallothioneins (MT1, 2, 3, and 4) are found in mammals, which may have a distinct expression in tissues. Surprisingly, only a few genes or mRNA-encoding metallothioneins are characterized in cetaceans; molecular studies are focused on MT quantification, using biochemical methods. Thus, we characterized, in transcriptomic and genomic data, more than 200 complete sequences of metallothioneins (mt1, 2, 3, and 4) in cetacean species to study their structural variability and to propose to the scientific research community Mt genes dataset to develop in future molecular approaches which will study the four types of metallothioneins in diversified organs (brain, gonad, intestine, kidney, stomach, etc.).
Hands across the Water: How the 57-Year Dispute over the Edwards Aquifer Began, Persisted, and Was Resolved
Authors: Votteler Todd H.
Published: May 2023

The Edwards Aquifer is the primary source of water for a region in South-Central Texas that includes San Antonio and irrigated agriculture to the west. The aquifer also contributes to surface water flow in the Guadalupe River through Comal and San Marcos Springs, which are home to endangered aquatic species. In 1956, during the multiyear Texas drought of record, Comal Springs ceased to flow initiating a multi-decadal transboundary water dispute over the aquifer. This dispute pitted urban, agricultural, and environmental interests and surface water right holders against one another. In 1993, a federal district court ruled that the Endangered Species Act required that adequate flows from the springs be ensured for the endangered species. The Texas Legislature responded to the court by establishing the Edwards Aquifer Authority to regulate groundwater withdrawals. In 2007, with a key deadline looming to create a species protection plan, the Texas Legislature intervened again and mandated that the rival regional water interests engage in a stakeholder process to develop the plan. That process, which was called the Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program, resulted in a diverse group of parties with opposing interests collaborating to develop, approve, fund, and implement the landmark Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan, which is in its 10th year of implementation.
Nitrate and/or Nitric Acid Formation in the Presence of Different Radical Scavengers during Ozonation of Water Samples; Are Scavengers Effective?
Authors: Keris-Sen Ulker D. , Yonar Taner
Published: May 2023

In this study, we investigated the effect of different radical scavengers on the nitrate and/or nitric acid (NO3− and/or HNO3) formation chain in liquid while the dielectric barrier discharge plasma system (DBD) was used for ozone (O3) generation. The effects of the excess concentration of each scavenger were studied individually. In addition, ultrapure water (UPW), tap water, and surface water samples were examined in the same condition. Due to the absence of scavengers in the UPW, we expected the highest NO3− formation in this experiment because all active species produced by the DBD system should have formed NO3−. However, the obtained results were unexpected; the highest NO3− formation was obtained in the tap water at 385 ± 4.6 mg/L. The results can be explained by some compounds in tap water acting as a trap for radicals involved in chain reactions that form NO3− and/or HNO3. The second highest result was obtained in the sodium hydroxide solution as 371 ± 4.9 mg/L, since the OH− ions accelerated the decomposition of O3 to its intermediates such as hydroperoxide (HO2−), ozonide (O3−), and hydroxyl radical (OH•), and, by increasing radicals in the liquid, more chain reactions can be promoted that lead to the formation of NO3− and/or HNO3. On the other hand, the quenching of radicals by scavengers such as carbonate ion and phosphoric acid and/or the long-term stabilization of O3 as O3 negatively affected the chain reactions that generate NO3− and/or HNO3.
Fish Hooks and the Protection of Living Aquatic Resources in the Context of Recreational Catch-and-Release Fishing Practice and Fishing Tourism
Authors: Czarkowski Tomasz Kajetan , Kupren Krzysztof , Hakuć-Błażowska Anna , Kapusta Andrzej
Published: May 2023

The fish hook is a commonly known tool used in recreational fishing, which is one of the forms of active, specialised tourism. As a component of a fishing rod, the hook is intended to be anchored into the mouth of a fish and hold the fish on the end of the line while landing it. However, in the context of the protection of living aquatic resources and Catch-and-Release (C&R) fishing, its role and significance are becoming broader. In addition to the impact of the hook type on fishing efficiency, including the Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE), the importance of hook selection in terms of minimising the resulting damage to the tissues of caught and released fish is increasing. It appears that alternative hook types, such as barbless hooks and circle hooks, are safer for fish in the aforementioned context while not significantly reducing fishing efficiency. This review study is aimed at describing the design, types, and role of the fish hook in modern C&R angling, including the impact of the hook type on both fishing efficiency and the safety and welfare of released fish, which translates into the status and protection of living aquatic resources. The issues presented in the study highlight a number of related technical, biological and social factors that are specific to inland angling in particular. Such a holistic perspective can be used to support the effective management of recreational fishing, which, as one of the most popular human activities when in contact with water, has a very significant impact on the state of the environment and, thus, on the possibility of tourism development.
A Review of Hydrological Studies in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Almheiri Khalid B. , Rustum Rabee , Wright Grant , Adeloye Adebayo J.
Published: May 2023

The increasing interest in hydrological studies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has resulted in the publication of several papers on hydrology and its broad use for addressing contemporaneous challenges confronting humans and the environment in the region. However, for several reasons, these efforts have remained invisible and unrecognized. This paper has reviewed the literature on hydrological research in the UAE to provide a comprehensive source of information for researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders. The documented studies were carefully selected, relying on a bibliometric analysis methodology of five phases to specify the boundary of the study area, adopt the primary keywords for the search, evaluate the obtained papers, exclude the non-conforming ones, and classify the final results into four distinguished topics—namely, rainfall analysis, urban growth and flood hazards, cloud seeding and changing climate, and groundwater situation and utilization. The evaluation process considered assessing the papers’ relevancy, authenticity, and coverage of the main issues of interest. In all, a total of 50 published papers were identified based on the specified criteria and reviewed. The main findings were first that the amount of rainfall over the UAE has been declining in the last decade, and this trend is expected to continue, although intensities are rising, suggesting shorter duration events. Secondly, the extensive urban growth in the country has resulted in increasing incidences of urban floods and declining groundwater recharge. Both of these are to be expected as consequences of the increased imperviousness from urbanization and the higher intensities from shorter-duration rainfall events. Thirdly, although the cloud-seeding program has proved to be successful in increasing precipitation amounts, the impact of this on flooding due to more extreme rainfall intensities and on air quality remains worrisome. Finally, groundwater analyses have shown that it is still the main freshwater resource in the country, but its long-term sustainability and quality are being threatened by the declining recharge. This calls for a national policy for groundwater management in the UAE to tackle the challenges associated with the increasing demand for water in all sectors of the economy. The study recommended addressing the gap in the hydrological literature of the UAE, specifically in the field of big meteorological data analysis, the socioeconomic impacts of urban floods, the impacts of climate change in urbanized regions, and the possibility of using alternative resources to recharge groundwater as part of sustainable water management.
Heterogeneous Factors Influencing Electric Vehicle Acceptance: Application of Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Guo Weishang , Huang Jian , Chen Wei , Mao Yihua , Atchike Desire Wade , Ahmad Munir
Published: May 2023

Since electric vehicle (ELV) deployment can contribute to overall renewable energy sources, exploration of the heterogeneous influence factors (HIFs) affecting the willingness to accept ELVs can assist in the realization of sustainable development goals, particularly universal access to affordable energy for all. In this research, we explored the HIFs that influence the willingness of individuals to accept ELVs (WAELV) within an integrated decision-making (IDM) framework. We established the IDM conceptual framework through the incorporation of HIFs, notably including the environmental and health benefits of ELVs, knowledge about innovation, and the benefits regarding the built environment and creating a comprehensive structure. We analyzed data gathered through questionnaires from urban and peri-urban areas of the Shandong province (China) by employing the partial least square structural equation modeling technique, which is an appropriate tool for analyzing data measured on a Likert scale. The key findings were as follows. Firstly, the capital cost of ELVs was found to be a significant barrier to the WAELV of individuals. Secondly, among other factors, the societal aspect of ELVs and the environmental awareness aspect were drivers of the WAELV of individuals across all the data samples. However, benefits for the built environment, knowledge about innovation, and the environmental and health benefits of ELVs only positively drove the WAELV of individuals in the urban setting and for the overall sample. Thirdly, these three HIFs were identified as neutral factors in the peri-urban areas. Thus, a clear disparity was detected between the urban and peri-urban areas in terms of factors influencing the WAELV of individuals. Finally, the social aspect of ELVs was revealed as the strongest driver, while benefits for the built environment turned out to be the weakest factor. Based on these findings, some crucial policies are here extracted.
Experimentos em climatologia geográfica
Authors: Tavares Camila De Moraes Gomes , Ferreira Cássia de Castro Martins , Oliveira Daiane Evangelista de , Assis Débora Couto de , Paula Isabela Fernanda Moraes de , Fernandes Ludmilla Alves , Paulo Maria Luiza Silva , Alves Rafael de Souza , Allocca Rodson de Andrade , Oliveira Thiago Alves de , Oliveira Wemerson Discanio de
Published: May 2023

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Questão agrária e políticas públicas em Minas Gerais : conflitos sociais e alternativas populares
Authors: Stédile João Pedro , Almeida José Amilton de , Bezerra Cristina Simões , Masson Gabriela Abrahão , Basilio Carolina da Silva , Barros Clara Leite Sefair de , Oliveira Marcela Fritz de , Valadão Tatiane Souza , Alagoano Verônica Medeiros , Firmiano Frederico Daia , Capuchinho Michelle Neves , Brant Nathália Lopes Caldeira , Pontes Nicole Alves Espada , Pereira Juliana Aparecida Cobuci , Azevedo Agatha de Souza , Oliveira Kallen Katia da Cruz , Paula Juliana Boechat de Souza , Melo Geane Luiza Viana de , Jesus Nilo Marques de , Bezerra Cristina Simões , Bruziguessi Bruno , Hackbardt Geanini , Farias Ludmila Bandeira Pedro de , Santos Débora Lopes , Caputo Lara Rodrigues , Bohnenberger Enio , Grossi Monica Aparecida , Bôas Rafael Litvin Villas , Carvalho Elisangela das Dores , Lima Matilde Oliveira de Araújo , Roseno Sônia Maria , Pereira Maysa Mathias Alves , Silva Mahara Jneesh Menezes , Pacheco Ana Iris Nogueira , Oliveira Gladys Cristina de , Oliveira João Vítor de , Pinheiro Stéphanne Ribeiro ,   Verônica Medeiros, Alagoano
Published: May 2023

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Tubulicrinis incrassatus (Basidiomycota), première récolte en France métropolitaine
Authors: Gruhn Gérald , Rivoire Bernard
Published: May 2023

Tubulicrinis incrassatus, récolté sur résineux en France, est décrit et illustré. Cette espèce du groupe des Tubulicrinis à cystides non capitées et à sommet arrondi est proche de T. calothrix et T. borealis. Les différences avec ces taxons sont commentées.
Premier signalement de la forme albinos de Sarcoscypha coccinea (Pezizales, Ascomycota) dans le département du Rhône (France)
Authors: Van Vooren Nicolas , Rivoire Bernard
Published: May 2023

First record of the albino form of Sarcoscypha coccinea (Pezizales, Ascomycota) in the French department of Rhône.

The discovery of some pure white specimens of Sarcoscypha coccinea

in the south of Lyon (France), in an alluvial forest along the Rhône river, is an opportunity to present and illustrate this remarkable taxon, about 60 years after the last records in the Lyon area. A nomenclatural question is raised about the name to be applied to this particular form, and the name Sarcoscypha coccinea f. albida is proposed as a new combination. Distribution data in France are also provided.
Une étude locale de la biodiversité : inventaire des coléoptères du domaine de la fondation Pierre Vérots à Saint-Jean-de-Thurigneux (Ain, France). 5. Les Staphylinidae
Authors: Prudhomme Jean-Claude
Published: May 2023

Une liste de 360 espèces de staphylinidés rencontrés lors de l’inventaire des coléoptères du domaine de la Fondation Pierre Vérots à Saint-Jean-de-Thurigneux (Ain) est établie, commentée et comparée aux données anciennes et récentes disponibles pour la même région.