bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical and Field Measurement Investigation on Foundation Pit Excavation Blasting of Anchor in Suspension Bridge
Authors: Yan Lei , Gou Xiaoying , Chen Zengshun , Fu Yunfei , Li Guo , Cheng Longfei , Xue Xuanyi , Jiang Yu
Published: November 2022

The foundation pit of a suspension bridge project in the Three Gorges Reservoir area is investigated in this paper. The pit is located under an unstable rock mass and landslide body; its base lithology is mudstone. The bridge foundation pit project mainly adopts blasting excavation to accelerate construction progress. However, as a hazardous technique to engineering safety, the explosion vibration easily causes deterioration of the surrounding strata, thereby inducing slope instability and rock mass collapse. Besides, three major challenges should be considered: complex terrain conditions, difficulties in the blasting excavation of anchors, and the extremely high risk of construction. Therefore, comprehensive risk control measures using the methods of hierarchical excavation and minimum charge blasting are put forward. After the measures were verified to be feasible through finite element simulation, it was successfully applied to actual construction. In addition, this paper proposes using fiber concrete to reinforce slope retaining walls, and simulates the reinforced effect based on the research above. The results indicate that the risk control scheme is reasonable, which not only ensures the construction process but also guarantees the stability of the slope and unstable rock body. At the same time, the slope is reinforced with fiber concrete, which effectively decreases the protection wall thickness. Finally, the article can provide a valuable reference for similar engineering projects around the world.
Design and Development of a Heterogeneous Active Assisted Living Solution for Monitoring and Following Up with Chronic Heart Failure Patients in Spain
Authors: Melero-Muñoz Francisco José , Bueno-Delgado María Victoria , Martínez-Carreras Ramón , Maestre-Ferriz Rafael , Beteta-Medina Miguel Ángel , Puebla-Martínez Tomás , Bleda-Tomás Andrés Lorenzo , Sánchez-Nanclares Gorka , Pérez-de-Zabala Ricardo , Álvarez-Leon Mónica
Published: November 2022

Heart failure is the most common disease among elderly people, and the risk increases with age. The use of smart Internet of Things (IoT) systems for monitoring patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) in a non-intrusive manner can result in better control of the disease, improving proactive healthcare through real-time and historical patient’s data, promoting self-care in patients, reducing unneeded interaction between patients and doctors, reducing the number of hospitalizations and saving healthcare costs. This work presents an active assisted living (AAL) solution based on the IoT to provide a tele-assistance platform for CHF patients from the public health service of the region of Murcia in Spain, with formal and informal caregivers and health professionals also as key actors. In this article, we have detailed the methodology, results, and conclusions of the prevalidation phase for the set of IoT technologies to be integrated in the AAL platform, the first mandatory step before the deployment of a large-scale pilot that will lead to improving the innovation of the system from its current technology readiness level to the market. The work presented, in the framework of the H2020 Pharaon project, aims to serve as inspiration to the R&D community for the design, development, and deployment of AAL solutions based on heterogeneous IoT technologies, or similar approaches, for smart healthcare solutions in real healthcare institutions.
Validation of the Factor Structure and Gender-Related Measurement Invariance of the Inventory of Socially Supportive Behaviors (Short Form): Proposing an Alternative Design
Authors: Novotný Jan Sebastian , Váchová Lucie , Kvintová Jana
Published: November 2022

The aim of this paper was to validate the factor structure and gender-related measurement invariance of the short form of the Inventory of Socially Supportive Behaviors (ISSB). The study sample consisted of 710 undergraduate students aged 19–55 years. A confirmatory factor analysis of the original design confirmed a three-factor structure with an acceptable goodness of fit (CFI = 0.910, TLI = 0.894, RMSEA = 0.066) and validity; however, some indices hinted at potential weak points. Therefore, we proposed an alternative model with the identical three-factor structure but fewer items. This model showed a better goodness of fit (CFI = 0.953, TLI = 0.936, RMSEA = 0.064) and was superior to the original design (p < 0.001). Convergent and discriminant validity and reliability were also good. Finally, a gender-related measurement invariance analysis demonstrated invariance in the ISSB structure for both models, while revealing partial metric and scalar invariance. In conclusion, the findings suggest that the ISSB-SF is a reliable, efficient and rapid tool for measuring received social support, with the proposed alternative design possibly being advantageous if validated on other populations.
Soil Diversity of the Island of Gogland in the Gulf of Finland: History of Land Development and Current Status
Authors: Chebykina Ekaterina , Abakumov Evgeny , Shamilishvilly George , Kouzov Sergey
Published: November 2022

One of the most effective nature conservation measures is the creation of territories where human impact is limited, this is called specially protected natural areas. A significant contribution to increasing the area of the Russian Federation covered by protected areas was made by the creation of the State Nature Reserve in the Leningrad Region, known as the “East of the Gulf of Finland”. Initially, the reserve was supposed to include the island of Gogland (but it is now not part of the protected area). The locked status of the island, its remoteness from the coast, and the harsh features of the Gulf of Finland have contributed to the transformation of Gogland into a kind of open-air “museum”. The biological diversity of the island is closely connected with edaphic diversity, as soil is a natural habitat for a huge variety of living organisms. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to assess the edaphic potential of the island of Gogland, a territory that has existed for a long time with an extremely weak anthropogenic impact, in order to assess the ecosystem services of the island as one of the approaches to taking effective measures for nature protection. Data on chemical soil characteristics are discussed, as well as current soil pollution processes of these remote areas by trace elements. Edaphic studies carried out showed that the soil cover of the island of Gogland is characterized by sufficient diversity, the presence of soils at initial stages of development, soils with a fully developed differentiated profile with a pronounced eluvial process—eluvozems and various podzols, as well as the rarest, organogenic soils—bog, and bog-gley soils. The pHH2O of the studied soils on Gogland is characterized by a strongly acidic to weakly acidic reaction. The total pollution indicator of the studied soils is characterized by low values (Zc < 16), whereas the geoaccumulation index (Igeo) showed moderate/heavy pollution by only one element: Pb.
Systematic Analysis of the Contributory Factors Related to Major Coach and Bus Accidents in China
Authors: Sha Yongzhong , Hu Junyan , Zhang Qingxia , Wang Chao
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was: (1) to propose a classification system for the contributory factors behind major coach and bus accidents with mass casualties based on the human factor analysis and classification system (HFACS); and (2) to identify the main contributory factors behind accidents and the main indicators of the causal factors. Based on 56 official investigation reports of major coach and bus accidents with more than 10 fatalities, a qualitative content analysis was conducted to develop a modified classification system for the contributory factors behind these accidents, and a gray correlation analysis was conducted to identify the main causative factors and indicators by calculating the correlation degrees. The results showed that the modified classification system for the contributory factors behind major coach and bus accidents can be divided into seven levels: government regulations, the organizational influence of passenger transportation enterprises, unsafe internal operational supervision, preconditions for drivers’ unsafe acts, drivers’ unsafe acts, proximate causes other than the driver’s act, and moderating factors affecting accident severity and probability. The organizational influence of passenger transportation enterprises is the most significant factor affecting the accidents. Thus, passenger transport enterprises must systematically strengthen their responsibility and safety management to prevent accidents. Accident investigations should begin with the accident process to determine the proximate cause as well as the factors that influence the likelihood and severity of the accident.
A Method of Reducing Invalid Steering for AUVs Based on a Wave Peak Frequency Tracker
Authors: Yuan Jianping , Li Jin , Dong Zhihui , Chen Qinglong , Sun Hanbing
Published: November 2022

The motion control of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) is affected by waves near the ocean surface or in shallow-water areas. Therefore, to counteract the influence of waves, we need to remove them by designing a filter. The wave peak frequency is important in wave filter design. This paper focuses on the identification of the wave peak frequency using the least-squares parameter estimation algorithm. The input–output expression of the wave disturbance model is derived by eliminating the intermediate variable. Based on the obtained identification model, an auxiliary model-based recursive extended least-squares identification algorithm is developed to estimate the model parameters. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified with simulated tests of the heading control system of an AUV. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method is effective for the identification of the wave peak frequency, and an observer with a wave peak frequency tracker can significantly reduce invalid steering.
A Comparative Study of Machine Learning Algorithms for Industry-Specific Freight Generation Model
Authors: Lim Hyeonsup , Uddin Majbah , Liu Yuandong , Chin Shih-Miao , Hwang Ho-Ling
Published: November 2022

According to Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the U.S. transportation system handled 14,329 million ton-miles of freight per day in 2020. Understanding the generation of these freight shipments is crucial for transportation researchers, planners, and policymakers to design and plan for a more efficient and connected freight transportation system. Traditionally, the freight generation modeling has been based on Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression, although more advanced Machine Learning (ML) algorithms have been evaluated and proven to have excellent performance in various transportation applications in recent years. Furthermore, one modeling approach applied for one industry might not always be applicable for another as their freight generation logics can be quite different. The objective of this study is to apply and evaluate alternative ML algorithms in the estimation of freight generation for each of 45 industry types. Seven alternative ML algorithms, along with the base OLS regression, were evaluated and compared. In addition, the study considered different combinations of variables in both the original and logarithmic form as well as hyperparameters of those ML algorithms in the model selection for each industry type. The results showed statistically significant improvements in the root mean square error reduction by the alternative ML algorithms over the OLS for over 80% of cases. The study suggests utilizing the alternative ML algorithms can reduce the root mean square error by about 30%, depending on industry types.
Consumer Acceptance of Alternative Proteins: A Systematic Review of Current Alternative Protein Sources and Interventions Adapted to Increase Their Acceptability
Authors: Siddiqui Shahida Anusha , Alvi Tayyaba , Sameen Aysha , Khan Sipper , Blinov Andrey Vladimirovich , Nagdalian Andrey Ashotovich , Mehdizadeh Mohammad , Adli Danung Nur , Onwezen Marleen
Published: November 2022

Conventional meat consumption has triggered an environmental burden along with effects on different disease spectrums according to existing research. The dietary patterns adopted by consumers significantly impact both planetary and individual health. Interventions are needed to support the protein transition. However, there is not yet an overview of interventions towards acceptance of novel proteins available. This systemic review highlights different varieties of alternative proteins and interventions adopted to increase the acceptance of alternative protein sources. Educational intervention, persuasion, training, and modeling approaches are summarized in this review. Furthermore, behavioral models triggering the consumer’s response towards different alternative proteins are also discussed. The systemic review highlights that consumer acceptance varies among different alternative proteins. Food choice motives, familiarity, food neophobia, disgust, and cultural norms are among the various drivers of consumer acceptance. A comparison of these drivers indicates inconsistencies, presenting the need for future research.
Fiscal Decentralization, Taxation Efforts and Corporate Green Technology Innovation in China Based on Moderating and Heterogeneity Effects
Authors: Zhang Xiaosan , Hu Xiaojie , Wu Fang
Published: November 2022

Corporate green technology innovation is an effective way to achieve regional sustainable development goals (SDGs). Based on fiscal decentralization as a green function that empowers provincial governments with fiscal powers that are highly relevant to regional sustainable economic decision-making, this paper focused on the impacts of fiscal decentralization on corporate green technology innovation, as well as the moderating roles of taxation efforts. Taking China’s listed corporations from the period of 2005 to 2019 as the research sample, we constructed green technology innovation indicators at the corporate level. The empirical results were as follows: firstly, fiscal decentralization significantly promoted corporate green technology innovation on the whole; secondly, the synergy effects of fiscal decentralization and taxation efforts were strongly positive, implying a substantial promotion of corporate green technology innovation; thirdly, heterogeneity tests found that the synergistic effects of fiscal decentralization and taxation efforts were more significant in promoting corporate green technology innovation in eastern China, non-state-owned enterprises (non-SOEs) and manufacturing corporations. The above results were proven to be equally valid after a series of robustness tests. We suggest that provincial governments should be granted more fiscal autonomy, and that taxation efforts should be optimized to promote corporate green technology innovation.
Analysis on Influencing Factors Decomposition and Decoupling Effect of Power Carbon Emissions in Yangtze River Economic Belt
Authors: Yin Jieting , Huang Chaowei
Published: November 2022

The power industry is one of the main industries of energy consumption and carbon emissions in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, in order to accelerate the development of green and low-carbon power. This paper takes the power industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt and the upper, middle and lower reaches from 2000 to 2020 as the research object. Based on the four absolute factors of economy, energy consumption, population and output, the generalized divisia index method (GDIM) is constructed. Combining the decoupling model with the GDIM method, a decoupling effort model is constructed based on the DPSIR framework to incorporate electricity output and economic scale into economic drivers. The main findings are as follows: The lower reaches provide the main contribution area of power carbon emissions, and the high value of carbon emissions tends to migrate eastward. Economy, output and energy consumption scale are the main factors leading to the increase in carbon emissions in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, upper, middle and lower reaches, while carbon intensity and output carbon intensity are the key factors curbing carbon emissions. Among them, economic scale is the largest positive driving factor of carbon emissions in the middle and lower reaches, and output carbon intensity is the largest negative driving factor in the upper reaches. The total decoupling effect index in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River Economic Belt increased the most and achieved decoupling of carbon emissions between 2014 and 2020. From 2016 to 2020, the total decoupling effect index of the upper, middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River Economic Belt fluctuates within a certain range, and the total decoupling effect index of the power industry has entered a certain pressure period.
Study on the Effect of the Copper Tailing Substrate with Different Treatments on the Growth of Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea)
Authors: Xue Jinchun , Wang Weiwei , He Min , You Jiajia , Han Huaqin
Published: November 2022

The copper sulphide mining process would produce a large number of copper tailings that can be treated with different substrates so as to act as guest soil in the ecological reclamation of the mine. In order to reveal the influence of different copper tailing treatment substrates on plant growth, in this experiment, tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) was planted under potted conditions for the purpose of exploring the effect of different exogenous substrates such as conditioning agents, sulfurized modified straw, effective microorganisms (EM), and high-density sludge (HDS) sediment on tall fescue height, biomass, chlorophyll, catalase (CAT) activity and Cu2+ transport under copper tailings substrate. Then, the results showed that the combined application of different exogenous substrates (conditioning agents, EM, sulfurized modified straw, and HDS sediment) reduced the pH of the copper tailing substrate to varying degrees, with a decrease of 5–21%. Moreover, compared with the control group and other treatments, the combined treatment of conditioning agents, sulfurized modified straw, and EM has a significant impact on the biomass, plant height, chlorophyll content, CAT activity, and other physiological indicators of tall fescue and can effectively reduce Cu2+ that is toxic to tall fescue in copper tailing.
Analysis and Evaluation of Business Continuity Measures Employed in Critical Infrastructure during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Rostek Katarzyna , Wiśniewski Michał , Skomra Witold
Published: November 2022

The purpose of the presented research was to determine the effectiveness and sufficiency of measures put in place to protect the business continuity of critical infrastructure (CI) and key services (KSs) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The wide variety of research conducted in the area of business continuity maintenance during the COVID-19 pandemic does not change the fact that there is still a research gap in this area, particularly in terms of issues related to CI and KS protection. A systematic review of scientific publications revealed the need for continued research into this topic given the fact that only 19 papers related to CI continuity and 8 directly to KS operators could be identified. Holistic and interdisciplinary research is particularly needed to organize and systematize the existing scientific knowledge on the subject, and in practical terms, help organizations and institutions to better prepare for future continuity disruptions. A survey conducted between March and May 2021 among entities operating in Poland and classified as critical infrastructure operators as well as key service operators, subcontractors, and suppliers crucial to maintaining the continuity of critical infrastructure operations revealed that entrepreneurs, surprised by the speed and aggressive nature of the pandemic, mainly resorted to protective measures that were immediately available, standard solutions that did not require excessive financial and organizational effort. But in the face of long-term pandemic threat, such measures may no longer be sufficient, so it is important to intensify research into those precautions that require readaptation of work organization and organizational processes to protect key workers, increase supply chain resilience, and protect the work process.
Identifying Demographic, Social and Professional Characteristics for Effective Disaster Risk Management—A Case Study of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlGahtani Ali , Al Momani Naill , Davies Amanda Jane , Alam Edris
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study is to address a gap in the literature associated with the influence of demographic characteristics of personnel working in disaster risk management on the organisational level of preparedness in this field. The study further aims to identify the impact of human, organisational, technological, coordination and environmental factors on the level of readiness in Saudi Arabia in dealing with crises and disasters. The case study applied a purposeful sampling approach in collecting 550 questionnaires from representatives of five geographical regions, 20 government organisations comprising 13 administrative regions. The study tested two hypotheses with the single-variance analysis test (P) performed for each stage (level) of the readiness of the relevant government departments inclusive of the demographics—age, education, position/job title, academic specialisation, number of disaster risk management related short courses completed and residential region of the study members. The findings suggest the influence of disaster management short course education and the region in which the respondent is located impacted significantly on the level of crisis and disaster organisational preparedness. Lesser impact on level of readiness for dealing with crises and disasters was identified for demographics of age, education level, position held and academic specialisation. Further, in the second area of the study findings indicate minimal variation in the impact of human, organisational, technological, coordination and environmental factors on the readiness of government departments in all phases of disaster risk management with all factors trending neutral and consistent with the weighed response averages.
The Impact of Surface Water Seepage on Seismicity and Rockbursting in Mines
Authors: Kozyrev Anatoly , Batugin Andrian , Zuo Jianping , Zhukova Svetlana
Published: November 2022

Retrospective analysis of data obtained from long-term monitoring of technogenic seismicity and rockbursts at the Apatitovy Tsirk and the Rasvumchorr Plateau deposits (Russia) showed that there is a significant (by 50% or more) increase in the number of geodynamic events during spring snowmelt periods. An upswing of seismic activity within this rock massif occurs when following conditions are true: water reserve in the snow cover on the deposit area is more than 3 × 108 m3; snowmelt period exceeds 40 days; increase in water ingress rates continues for over 5 days and total water inflow volume exceeds the previous daily measurements by at least a factor of 2. Seismic activity of the massif starts to intensify after the snowmelt develops momentum. Major induced earthquakes occurred in the years when these conditions were met (for example, in 2005 there was a magnitude 2.3 earthquake; in 2009, M = 1.6 earthquake), and more than 1000 seismic events were recorded during the snowmelt period. It has been established that when mining reaches the depths of more than 500 m, seismic events during infiltration of atmospheric precipitation begin to occur from a depth of 100–200 m and are recorded to depths of about 900 m. A possible controlling factor of the seismic activation is the reactivation of tectonic faults, which occurs under conditions of the critically stressed state of the massif, due to a decrease in their normal compression during infiltration. Retrospective analysis of the factors contributing to a strong rockburst (K = 10–11) in 1990 at a bauxite mine in the South Urals shows that prior to this disaster there was an inrush of the Ai River waters into the mine workings through a large tectonic disturbance, which has not been previously taken into account when analyzing the mechanism of this geodynamic event. The intrusion of water into the fault located in the field of regional stresses and subsequent partial relief of its fault plane from normal stresses could have triggered the rockburst with fault-slip mechanism. The study of the relationship between amount of precipitation and the degree of water encroachment into the field, on the one hand, and seismicity, on the other hand, is needed to draw up recommendations on improving geodynamic and environmental safety of mining regions in order to ensure their sustainable development.
Evaluating the Sustainability of New Construction Projects over Time by Examining the Evolution of the LEED Rating System
Authors: Madson Katherine , Franz Bryan , Leicht Robert , Nelson Jonathan
Published: November 2022

In 1998, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) developed the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program to provide a standard form of evaluation for sustainability in building design and construction. Since its inception, LEED has undergone seven significant revisions, wherein the expectations needed to achieve the desired certification level were clarified and updated. The reasons for these updates are varied and include the recognition of new technologies and materials, the application of more stringent energy standards, and the recognition of differences in building types. However, the perception within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry is that higher certification levels are more challenging to obtain in each subsequent version of LEED. For example, projects receiving a Gold certification under LEED 2.1 may only qualify for a Silver certification under LEED 3.0. The goals of this paper are to review changes in LEED over time and to empirically test this perception. Direct comparisons of the text of the credit requirements were performed between LEED versions (v) 2.1, v2.2, and v3.0 on a credit-by-credit basis. The comparison revealed ten different categories of changes between versions. From this comparison, conversion matrices were developed to allow a project scorecard from an older version of LEED to be converted to a newer version. To address uncertainty resulting from changing the level of detail in the information submitted on project scorecards, both strict and interpretative versions of these matrices were developed. These matrices were then applied to a sample of LEED-certified building projects, drawn using a stratified random sampling procedure from the publicly available USGBC database. The strata were separated first by LEED version (e.g., v2.1, v2.2, and v3.0) and then by certification level (e.g., Certified, Silver, Gold, Platinum). After converting the project scorecards from this sample, qualitative and correlational analyses were performed to test the hypothesis that LEED scores increase over time. The results show that in both strict and interpretive transformations, LEED scores show a slight to moderate increase in points over time.
Supply Chain Modelling of the Automobile Multi-Stage Production Considering Circular Economy by Waste Management Using Recycling and Reworking Operations
Authors: Omair Muhammad , Alkahtani Mohammed , Ayaz Kashif , Hussain Ghulam , Buhl Johannes
Published: November 2022

The supply chain management plays a crucial role in delivering products from a supplier, through the manufacturer, distributors, and retailers to the targeted customers. The lifecycle of the products can be ended at any stage due to imperfect quality or waste, which are typically not managed well for a good price. This product’s life can be extended and increased with the use of the circular economy for the value addition processes which turn the waste into byproducts, which can be sold with maximum profit. The automobile industry is associated with various other small industries and is very significant for the economy at the local, national, and international levels. However, the industry also requires sustainable development in its supply chain management, gained by introducing the circular economy concept to manage and reduce the generated waste. The consumption of carbon fiber-reinforced composites (CFRCs) in the manufacturing of numerous automotive parts has acquired immense attention this decade, but the process also generates imperfect products (waste). The proposed model is based on a mathematical formulation to manage imperfect production by reworking and recycling, where the former is required to re-add value to the proportion of the rejected parts, and the latter is to recycle the remaining scrap into useful products by using a circular economy. The outsourcing operation is also added to provide an optimal level of inventory and lot sizing for minimizing the total cost of the supply chain management. Data from the automobile part industry are tested to provide the practical implications of the proposed SCM mathematical model. Sensitivity analysis is performed to understand the significance level of the individual parameters affecting the objective function, i.e., the total cost of the SCM. The results show a meaningful insight for the managers to obtain the benefits of the circular economy in multi-stage automobile part production for sustainable and resilient supply chain management.
Pay-as-You-Throw (PAYT) for Municipal Solid Waste Management in Greece: On Public Opinion and Acceptance
Authors: Emmanouil Christina , Papadopoulou Kalliopi , Papamichael Iliana , Zorpas Antonis A.
Published: November 2022

As municipal solid waste increases on a global scale, local and national governments strive for the implementation of efficient waste management systems in urban settings. The importance of the optimization of waste management lies with the fact that it constitutes a key step towards energy and material independence as well as the development of sustainable societies. In order for municipalities to fall in line with European legislations and strategies (i.e., European Green Deal, Waste Framework Directive, Sustainable Development Goals, etc.), they need to choose strategic, targeted schemes for adequate waste management, taking into account the area profile under investigation (i.e., population, demographic, public opinion, etc.). The present study investigates the level of knowledge of citizens regarding a pay-as-you-throw (PAYT) system in Greece. The aim of the investigation is to elucidate the attitude towards PAYT implementation within a socioeconomic context. A survey was conducted using an online questionnaire in 2021 while the results show valuable insight on the degree of public acceptance and understanding. At the same time, shortcomings (e.g., communication about the implementation from government and local authorities to citizens) have been pinpointed.
Digital Transformation as an Enabler to Become More Efficient in Sustainability: Evidence from Five Leading Companies in the Mexican Market
Authors: Diaz Regina , Montalvo Raul
Published: November 2022

Not only was Digital Transformation (DT) accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, but over recent years some companies have already developed actions related to DT. It is well known that DT has many benefits, such as improving business models, making communication channels more efficient and facilitating decision-making. Furthermore, amongst others, one big challenge of DT is to contribute to areas related to sustainability. The objective of this article is to offer an exploratory review of how a small sample of leading Mexican companies have used DT as an enabler to be more efficient in some sustainability-related issues. The companies analyzed in this paper belong to different sectors: communication services, retail, financial, food and beverages, and materials. Through the identification of DT initiatives and implementations across time, a radar chart was constructed in order to identify, as a first approach, those related to sustainability in order to identify evidence of what some companies are doing in this regard. In addition, actions were grouped under the Business Dimensions defined by Deloitte Development LLC in order to emphasize the focus given by the organizations. One of the main conclusions from the evidence is that indeed big companies have a digital strategy agenda but not necessarily related to sustainability, but also that it is collaterally affected positively due to the economies of scale and operational improvements, from DT. This a qualitative primary study that can be reinforced in the future with analytical evidence that can measure impacts, effects, etc., to enrich strategies that relate to both DT and sustainability.
Assessment of Climate Change Impacts for Balancing Transboundary Water Resources Development in the Blue Nile Basin
Authors: Tedla Mihretab G. , Rasmy Mohamed , Tamakawa Katsunori , Selvarajah Hemakanth , Koike Toshio
Published: November 2022

An assessment of climate impacts in the hydrologic system of the Blue Nile basin is useful for enhancing water management planning and basin-wide policymaking. Climate change adaptation activities predominantly require an understanding of the range of impacts on the water resource. In this study, we assessed climate change impacts on the Blue Nile River using 30-year in situ climate data (1981–2010) and five bias-corrected General Circulation Models (GCMs) for future (2026–2045) climate projections of RCP8.5. Both historical and GCM precipitation projections show inter-annual and spatial variability, with the most significant increases in the rainy season and a significant decrease in the dry season. The results suggest the probability of an increase in total precipitation. The intensity and frequency of future extreme rainfall events will also increase. Moreover, the hydrological model simulation results show a likely increase in total river flow, peak discharges, flood inundation, and evapotranspiration that will lead to a higher risk of floods and droughts in the future. These results suggest that the operation of water storage systems (e.g., the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam) should be optimized for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and irrigation management in addition to their intended purposes in the Nile basin.
Cross-Layer Optimization-Based Asymmetric Medical Video Transmission in IoT Systems
Authors: Wang Yu , Han Weijia , Ma Xiao , Wang Qiuzhi , Chen Fengsen
Published: November 2022

At present, Internet of Things (IoT) networks are attracting much attention since they provide emerging opportunities and applications. In IoT networks, the asymmetric and symmetric studies on medical and biomedical video transmissions have become an interesting topic in both academic and industrial communities. Especially, the transmission process shows the characteristics of asymmetry: the symmetric video-encoding and -decoding processes become asymmetric (affected by modulation and demodulation) once a transmission error occurs. In such an asymmetric condition, the quality of service (QoS) of such video transmissions is impacted by many different factors across the physical (PHY-), medium access control (MAC-), and application (APP-) layers. To address this, we propose a cross-layer optimization-based strategy for asymmetric medical video transmission in IoT systems. The proposed strategy jointly utilizes the video-coding structure in the APP- layer, the power control and channel allocation in the MAC- layer, and the modulation and coding schemes in the PHY- layer. To obtain the optimum configuration efficiently, the proposed strategy is formulated and proofed by a quasi-convex problem. Consequently, the proposed strategy could not only outperform the classical algorithms in terms of resource utilization but also improve the video quality under the resource-limited network efficiently.
Does Green Transformational Leadership Develop Green Absorptive Capacity? The Role of Internal and External Environmental Orientation
Authors: Ozgul Burcu
Published: November 2022

Numerous researchers have investigated the concept of green absorptive capacity, but relatively few studies have been performed on its antecedents. The objective of the present research was to develop and empirically test a theoretical model, which analyzes how green transformational leadership and the (internal and external) environmental orientation of business owner–managers in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) affect green absorptive capacity. The data were collected from 373 SMEs with an ISO 14001 certificate in Turkey’s manufacturing industry by the survey method. The data were examined in the SmartPLS 3 analysis program to analyze the hypotheses. According to the research findings, the green transformational leadership of business owner–managers in SMEs and (internal and external) environmental orientation significantly influence the green absorptive capacity. The findings also revealed that (internal and external) environmental orientation partially mediates the correlation between the green transformational leadership and green absorptive capacity. Hence, this research presented new information on how green transformational leadership and the (internal and external) environmental orientation of business owner–managers improve green absorptive capacity in SMEs.
Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness for War Refugees: Communication of Preliminary Findings
Authors: Jeebodh-Desai Laila , Dwarika Veronica M.
Published: November 2022

Mindfulness and meditation was explored with the view to support the use of trauma-sensitive mindfulness (TSM) in clinical practice with survivors of war refugees in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorders. The following questions were explored: (1) How are mindfulness and meditation defined? (2) What are the practices and perceived value of mindfulness practices? (3) What are the evidence and non-evidence-based treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? (4) What are the possibilities of using TSM to support war-traumatised refugees in the treatment of PTSD in a refugee camp setting? Findings that measured currently actioned interventions for war-traumatised refugees did not account for psychological support that could be implemented in a refugee camp setting on a once-off basis. In response to the gaps and limitations highlighted, the study suggests an adaptation of the TSM intervention and professional development of practitioners in the art of TSM therapy.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Neutrinoless Double Beta Decay”
Authors: Bellini Fabio , Tomei Claudia
Published: November 2022

The present Special Issue is dedicated to the long-sought-after nuclear process known as Neutrinoless Double Beta Decay (NDBD), a nuclear transition characterized by the simultaneous decay of two neutrons into protons and electrons, without the emission of neutrinos [...]
Impact of Lorentz Violation Models on Exoplanets’ Dynamics
Authors: Gallerati Antonio , Ruggiero Matteo Luca , Iorio Lorenzo
Published: November 2022

Many exoplanets have been detected by the radial velocity method, according to which the motion of a binary system around its center of mass can produce a periodical variation of the Doppler effect of the light emitted by the host star. These variations are influenced by both Newtonian and non-Newtonian perturbations to the dominant inverse-square acceleration; accordingly, exoplanetary systems lend themselves to testing theories of gravity alternative to general relativity. In this paper, we consider the impact of the Standard Model Extension (a model that can be used to test all possible Lorentz violations) on the perturbation of radial velocity and suggest that suitable exoplanets’ configurations and improvements in detection techniques may contribute to obtaining new constraints on the model parameters.
Predicting the Trajectory of Replacements of SARS-CoV-2 Variants Using Relative Reproduction Numbers
Authors: Piantham Chayada , Ito Kimihito
Published: November 2022

New variants of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with high effective reproduction numbers are continuously being selected by natural selection. To establish effective control measures for new variants, it is crucial to know their transmissibility and replacement trajectory in advance. In this paper, we conduct retrospective prediction tests for the variant replacement from Alpha to Delta in England, using the relative reproduction numbers of Delta with respect to Alpha estimated from partial observations. We found that once Delta’s relative frequency reached 0.15, the date when the relative frequency of Delta would reach 0.90 was predicted with maximum absolute prediction errors of three days. This means that the time course of the variant replacement could be accurately predicted from early observations. Together with the estimated relative reproduction number of a new variant with respect to old variants, the predicted replacement timing will be crucial information for planning control strategies against the new variant.
A Polymorphism in the TMPRSS2 Gene Increases the Risk of Death in Older Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: de Andrade Clara Caldeira , Silva Ana Tércia Paulo , Vasconcelos Luydson Richardson Silva , Oliveira Pablo Rafael Silveira , de Souza Carlos Dornels Freire , da Costa Armstrong Anderson , do Carmo Rodrigo Feliciano
Published: November 2022

Background: Transmembrane serine protease type 2 (TMPRSS2) and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) are the main molecules involved in the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells. Changes in TMPRSS2 expression levels caused by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may contribute to the outcome of COVID-19. The aim was to investigate the association between TMPRSS2 gene polymorphisms and the risk of death in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Methods: We included patients with confirmed COVID-19, recruited from two hospitals in northeastern Brazil from August 2020 to July 2021. Two functional polymorphisms (rs2070788 and rs12329760) in TMPRSS2 were evaluated by real-time PCR. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate death. The Cox’s proportional hazards model was used to adjust for potentially confounding factors. Results: A total of 402 patients were followed prospectively. Survival analysis demonstrated that older patients carrying the rs2070788 GG genotype had shorter survival times when compared to those with AG or AA genotypes (p = 0.009). In multivariable analysis, the GG genotype was a factor independently associated with the risk of death in older individuals (hazard ratio = 4.03, 95% confidence interval 1.49 to 10.84). Conclusions: The rs2070788 polymorphism in TMPRSS2 increases risk of death four-fold in older patients hospitalized with COVID-19.
Effects of Highly Pathogenic Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Infection on the Surface Glycoprofiling of Porcine Pulmonary Microvascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Song Xiaoxiao , Wu Yanmei , Wu Xianping , Hu Ge , Zhang Tao
Published: November 2022

Previously, our study has demonstrated that porcine pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PPMVECs) were susceptible to highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (HP-PRRSV) and produced a significant non-specific immune response to it. The significance of microvascular endothelial glycocalyx is increasingly attracting attention, and its rich carbohydrate components are not only important signaling molecules, but also remarkably influence the signaling of most proteins. Comprehending changes in the carbohydrate chains contributes to understanding cell functions. This study aimed to reveal the effects of HP-PRRSV infection on the surface carbohydrate chains of PPMVECs. PPMVECs were isolated and cultured in vitro and infected with HP-PRRSV HN and JXA1 strains. Scanning electron microscopy analysis indicated that at 48 h post-infection, some broken holes were in their cell membranes, and that the surface fibrous glycocalyx was obviously reduced or even disappeared. Lectin microarray analysis indicated that the fluorescence intensities of 8 and 7 lectin sites were significantly changed by the HP-PRRSV HN and JXA1 strains, respectively, among which there were 6 common lectin sites. The up-regulation of common lectins (RCA-I, LEL, and STL) and the down-regulation of common lectins (LCA, DSA, and PHA-E) were confirmed by lectin fluorescence staining and lectin flow cytometry, respectively. Together, the results show that the HP-PRRSV infection can induce the glycocalyx disruption of PPMVECs and their surface glycoprofiling changes, and that the poly-N-acetyllactosamine and complex N-glycan are the main up-regulated and down-regulated carbohydrate chains, respectively. Our findings may provide insights into revealing the pathogenesis of HP-PRRSV from the perspective of glycobiology.
Advances in the Lung Cancer Immunotherapy Approaches
Authors: Padinharayil Hafiza , Alappat Reema Rose , Joy Liji Maria , Anilkumar Kavya V. , Wilson Cornelia M. , George Alex , Valsala Gopalakrishnan Abilash , Madhyastha Harishkumar , Ramesh Thiyagarajan , Sathiyamoorthi Ezhaveni , Lee Jintae , Ganesan Raja
Published: November 2022

Despite the progress in the comprehension of LC progression, risk, immunologic control, and treatment choices, it is still the primary cause of cancer-related death. LC cells possess a very low and heterogeneous antigenicity, which allows them to passively evade the anticancer defense of the immune system by educating cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTLs), tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), regulatory T cells (Treg), immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Though ICIs are an important candidate in first-line therapy, consolidation therapy, adjuvant therapy, and other combination therapies involving traditional therapies, the need for new predictive immunotherapy biomarkers remains. Furthermore, ICI-induced resistance after an initial response makes it vital to seek and exploit new targets to benefit greatly from immunotherapy. As ICIs, tumor mutation burden (TMB), and microsatellite instability (MSI) are not ideal LC predictive markers, a multi-parameter analysis of the immune system considering tumor, stroma, and beyond can be the future-oriented predictive marker. The optimal patient selection with a proper adjuvant agent in immunotherapy approaches needs to be still revised. Here, we summarize advances in LC immunotherapy approaches with their clinical and preclinical trials considering cancer models and vaccines and the potential of employing immunology to predict immunotherapy effectiveness in cancer patients and address the viewpoints on future directions. We conclude that the field of lung cancer therapeutics can benefit from the use of combination strategies but with comprehension of their limitations and improvements.