bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anthropometric Cut-Off Values for Detecting the Presence of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Multiple Components among Adults in Vietnam: The Role of Novel Indices
Authors: Dang Anh Kim , Truong Mai Tuyet , Le Huong Thi , Nguyen Khan Cong , Le Mai Bach , Nguyen Lam Thi , Do Khanh Nam , Nguyen Lan Huong Thi , Mamun Abdullah A. , Phung Dung , Thai Phong K.
Published: September 2022

Recent studies have shown that using international guidelines to diagnose metabolic syndrome (MetS) may underestimate its prevalence in different Asian populations. This study aims to determine the validity of anthropometric indicators and appropriate cut-off values to predict MetS for Vietnamese adults. We analyzed data on 4701 adults across four regions of Vietnam. Four conventional and five novel anthropometric indexes were calculated. The area under a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) and Youden’s J statistic were applied to evaluate the diagnostic ability and optimal cut-off values. Regardless of diagnostic criteria and gender, Abdominal volume index (AVI), Body roundness index (BRI), and Waist-height ratio (WHtR) had the highest AUC values, followed by Body mass index (BMI) and Waist-hip ratio (WHR). However, it was seen that differences among the AUC values of most indices were minor. In men, using International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria, the threshold of indices was 3.86 for BRI, 16.20 for AVI, 0.53 for WHtR, 22.40 for BMI, and 0.90 for WHR. In women, the threshold for these figures were 3.60, 12.80, 0.51, 23.58, and 0.85, respectively. It is recommended that health personnel in Vietnam should apply appropriate thresholds of anthropometry, which are lower than current international guidelines, for MetS screening to avoid under-diagnosis.
Dietary Habits, Food Product Selection Attributes, Nutritional Status, and Depression in Middle-Aged and Older Adults with Dysphagia
Authors: Ko Dahyeon , Oh Jieun , Joo Soyoung , Park Ju Yeon , Cho Mi Sook
Published: September 2022

Dysphagia, which increases the risk of malnutrition and depression, is an important health concern. A total of 304 people aged 50 years or above (148 subjects with dysphagia and 156 non-dysphagia subjects) were recruited for this survey of dietary habits, meal product selection attributes, nutritional status, and depression. For group comparisons, chi-square tests were performed. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted for the meal product selection attributes. Correlation analyses were performed to investigate links between EAT-10 (The 10-item Eating Assessment Tool), nutrition (Nutrition Quotient/Nutrition Quotient for the Elderly, NQ/NQ-E) and depression (The Short-Form Geriatric Depression Scale for Koreans, SGDS-K). Logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate links between EAT-10, nutritional status, and depressive status. Finally, a correlation analysis and logistic regression analysis of nutritional status, depression status, and some dietary factors were performed, targeting only the responses of the dysphagia patients. The average ages were 73.79 years in the dysphagia group and 70.15 years in the non-dysphagia group, and the total average age was 71.88 years. The overall age range was 50 to 92 years. Dysphagia (EAT-10) had significant effects on malnutrition (β = 0.037, OR = 1.095) and depression (β = 0.090, OR = 1.095) (p < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between SGDS-K, needing help with meals, and the amount of food consumed at mealtimes (p < 0.01). The correlation coefficient between SGDS-K and the need for help with meals was 0.474. Dietary factors that affected depression in dysphagia patients were the increase in the need for meal assistance (β = 1.241, OR = 3.460, p < 0.001) and the amount of food eaten at mealtimes (β = −0.494, OR = 0.702, p < 0.05). Dysphagia can increase the risk of depression and malnutrition. To reduce depression in dysphagia patients, it is necessary to develop meal products that address dietary discomfort among patients with dysphagia.
Structural Characterization of a Pleurotus sajor-caju Polysaccharide and Its Neuroprotection Related to the Inhibition of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Liu Mengdi , Dai Yingdi , Song Chengming , Wang Jia , Liu Yang , Wang Qi
Published: September 2022

A novel polysaccharide PSP2-1 was isolated and purified from Pleurotus sajor-caju. The structural characterization data displayed that the molecular weight of PSP2-1 was 44.9 kDa, and PSP2-1 consisted of fucose, galactose, glucose, and mannose. The methylation results showed that the glycosidic bonds of PSP2-1 included T-Fuc, 1,6-Gal, T-Glc, 1,6-Glc, 1,3,6-Glc, 1,3-Man, 1,2,6-Man, and T-Man. Neuroprotective studies indicated that PSP2-1 significantly improved the cell viability of the H2O2-induced oxidatively damaged neuronal cell HT22, reduced the release of LDH, inhibited apoptosis and release of cytochrome c, and alleviated the decline of mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS accumulation. Furthermore, PSP2-1 decreased the phosphorylation levels of cleaved PARP and cleaved caspase-3, and increased the ratio of bcl-2/bax. Additionally, PSP2-1 could inhibit the phosphorylation of MAPK family members including JNK, p38, and Erk. Finally, animal experiments showed that PSP2-1 could improve the oxidative stress injury and the learning and memory ability of mice with aging induced by D-galactose. Our results confirmed that PSP2-1 significantly ameliorated the oxidative stress injury, inhibited the apoptosis in H2O2-induced neuronal cells via MAPK pathway, and also improved cognition in mice with aging induced by D-galactose. Our research gives the foundation for the functional food application of P. sajor-caju polysaccharides in the future.
Biotransformation of Modified Benzylisoquinoline Alkaloids: Boldine and Berberine and In Silico Molecular Docking Studies of Metabolites on Telomerase and Human Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B
Authors: Eliwa Duaa , Ibrahim Abdel-Rahim S. , Kabbash Amal , El-Aasr Mona , Tomczyk Michał , Bin Jardan Yousef A. , Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Ragab Amany E.
Published: September 2022

Natural nitrogen heterocycles biotransformation has been extensively used to prepare synthetic drugs and explore the fate of therapeutic agents inside the body. Herein, the ability of filamentous fungi to biotransform boldine and berberine was investigated. Docking simulation studies of boldine, berberine and their metabolites on the target enzymes: telomerase (TERT) and human protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP-1B) were also performed to investigate the anticancer and antidiabetic potentials of compounds in silico. The biotransformation of boldine and berberine with Cunninghamella elegans NRRL 2310, Rhodotorula rubra NRRL y1592, Penicillium chrysogeneum ATCC 10002, Cunninghamella blackesleeana MR198 and Cunninghamella blackesleeana NRRL 1369 via demethylation, N- oxidation, glucosidation, oxidation and hydroxylation reactions produced seven metabolites, namely: 1,10-didesmethyl-boldine (1), laurolitsine (2), 1,10-didesmethyl-norboldine (3), boldine-9-O-β-D-glucoside (4), tridesmethyl berberine (5), demethylene berberine (6), and lambertine (7). Primarily, the structures of the metabolites were established by one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses and mass spectrometry. In silico molecular docking simulation of the metabolites of boldine and berberine to the proteins TERT and PTP-1B, respectively, revealed good binding MolDock scores comparable to boldine and berberine and favorable interactions with the catalytic sites of the proteins. In conclusion, this study presented promising biologically prepared nitrogen scaffolds (isoquinolines) of boldine and berberine.
Neuroprotective Effect of Artichoke-Based Nanoformulation in Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model: Focus on Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Amyloidogenic Pathways
Authors: El-Nashar Heba A. S. , Abbas Haidy , Zewail Mariam , Noureldin Mohamed H. , Ali Mai M. , Shamaa Marium M. , Khattab Mohamed A. , Ibrahim Nehal
Published: September 2022

The vast socio-economic impact of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has prompted the search for new neuroprotective agents with good tolerability and safety profile. With its outstanding role as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, alongside its anti-acetylcholinesterase activity, the artichoke can be implemented in a multi-targeted approach in AD therapy. Moreover, artichoke agricultural wastes can represent according to the current United Nations Sustainable Development goals an opportunity to produce medicinally valuable phenolic-rich extracts. In this context, the UPLC-ESI-MS/MS phytochemical characterization of artichoke bracts extract revealed the presence of mono- and di-caffeoylquinic acids and apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol O-glycosides with remarkable total phenolics and flavonoids contents. A broad antioxidant spectrum was established in vitro. Artichoke-loaded, chitosan-coated, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were prepared and characterized for their size, zeta potential, morphology, entrapment efficiency, release, and ex vivo permeation and showed suitable colloidal characteristics, a controlled release profile, and promising ex vivo permeation, indicating possibly better physicochemical and biopharmaceutical parameters than free artichoke extract. The anti-Alzheimer potential of the extract and prepared SLNs was assessed in vivo in streptozotocin-induced sporadic Alzheimer mice. A great improvement in cognitive functions and spatial memory recovery, in addition to a marked reduction of the inflammatory biomarker TNF-α, β-amyloid, and tau protein levels, were observed. Significant neuroprotective efficacy in dentate Gyrus sub-regions was achieved in mice treated with free artichoke extract and to a significantly higher extent with artichoke-loaded SLNs. The results clarify the strong potential of artichoke bracts extract as a botanical anti-AD drug and will contribute to altering the future medicinal outlook of artichoke bracts previously regarded as agro-industrial waste.
Chitosan/Cyclodextrin Nanospheres for Potential Nose-to-Brain Targeting of Idebenone
Authors: De Gaetano Federica , d’Avanzo Nicola , Mancuso Antonia , De Gaetano Anna , Paladini Giuseppe , Caridi Francesco , Venuti Valentina , Paolino Donatella , Ventura Cinzia Anna
Published: September 2022

Idebenone (IDE) is a powerful antioxidant that is potentially active towards cerebral diseases, but its low water solubility and fast first pass metabolism reduce its accumulation in the brain, making it ineffective. In this work, we developed cyclodextrin-based chitosan nanospheres (CS NPs) as potential carriers for nose-to-brain targeting of IDE. Sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD) was used as a polyanion for chitosan (CS) and as a complexing agent for IDE, permitting its encapsulation into nanospheres (NPs) produced in an aqueous solution. Overloading NPs were obtained by adding the soluble IDE/hydroxypropyl-β-CD (IDE/HP-β-CD) inclusion complex into the CS or SBE-β-CD solutions. We obtained homogeneous CS NPs with a hydrodynamic radius of about 140 nm, positive zeta potential (about +28 mV), and good encapsulation efficiency and drug loading, particularly for overloaded NPs. A biphasic release of IDE, finished within 48 h, was observed from overloaded NPs, whilst non-overloaded CS NPs produced a prolonged release, without a burst effect. In vitro biological studies showed the ability of CS NPs to preserve the antioxidant activity of IDE on U373 culture cells. Furthermore, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) demonstrated the ability of CS NPs to interact with the excised bovine nasal mucosa, improving the permeation of the drug and potentially favoring its accumulation in the brain.
Aconitum Alkaloid Songorine Exerts Potent Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid-A Receptor Agonist Action In Vivo and Effectively Decreases Anxiety without Adverse Sedative or Psychomotor Effects in the Rat
Authors: Bali Zsolt Kristóf , Bruszt Nóra , Kőszegi Zsombor , Nagy Lili Veronika , Atlasz Tamás , Kovács Péter , Csupor Dezső , Csupor-Löffler Boglárka , Hernádi István
Published: September 2022

Songorine (SON) is a diterpenoid alkaloid from Aconitum plants. Preparations of Aconitum roots have been employed in traditional oriental herbal medicine, however, their mechanisms of action are still unclear. Since GABA-receptors are possible brain targets of SON, we investigated which subtypes of GABA-receptors contribute to the effects of SON, and how SON affects anxiety-like trait behavior and psychomotor cognitive performance of rats. First, we investigated the effects of microiontophoretically applied SON alone and combined with GABA-receptor agents picrotoxin and saclofen on neuronal firing activity in various brain areas. Next, putative anxiolytic effects of SON (1.0–3.0 mg/kg) were tested against the GABA-receptor positive allosteric modulator reference compound diazepam (1.0–5.0 mg/kg) in the elevated zero maze (EOM). Furthermore, basic cognitive effects were assessed in a rodent version of the psychomotor vigilance task (PVT). Local application of SON predominantly inhibited the firing activity of neurons. This inhibitory effect of SON was successfully blocked by GABA(A)-receptor antagonist picrotoxin but not by GABA(B)-receptor antagonist saclofen. Similar to GABA(A)-receptor positive allosteric modulator diazepam, SON increased the time spent by animals in the open quadrants of the EOM without any signs of adverse psychomotor and cognitive effects observed in the PVT. We showed that, under in vivo conditions, SON acts as a potent GABA(A)-receptor agonist and effectively decreases anxiety without observable side effects. The present findings facilitate the deeper understanding of the mechanism of action and the widespread pharmacological use of diterpene alkaloids in various CNS indications.
Facile Fabrication of Dual Functional Graphene Oxide Microcapsules Carrying Corrosion Inhibitor and Encapsulating Self-Healing Agent
Authors: Li Jing , Tao Zhenglin , Cui Jincan , Shen Shuling , Qiu Hanxun
Published: September 2022

Dual functional graphene oxide (GO) microcapsules were fabricated through self-assembly in Pickering emulsions, carrying corrosion inhibitor benzotriazole (BTA) on the microcapsule shells and encapsulating a self-healing agent epoxy monomer. The formation of the GO microcapsules was assisted by the interaction between BTA and GO, which provided robust encapsulation for the epoxy monomer. The loading capacity of BTA and epoxy monomer reached 90.5%. The addition of the GO microcapsules simultaneously promoted the corrosion protection and self-healing properties of the waterborne epoxy composite coatings. The healing efficiency of the composite coatings reached over 99.7% when the content of the microcapsules was 10 wt%. Meanwhile, the corrosion current density of the intact coatings was decreased for around 50 times.
Influence of New Sleeve Composite on Fracture Behavior of Anterior Teeth with Flared Root Canals
Authors: Yoshii Shinji , Garoushi Sufyan , Kitamura Chiaki , Vallittu Pekka K. , Lassila Lippo
Published: September 2022

We evaluated the fracture strength and failure mode of non-ferrule teeth with flared root canals that were restored using new experimental sleeve composites. Fifty endodontically treated anterior teeth with flared root canals were restored with direct restorations utilizing different techniques. Group A had teeth (non-ferrule) restored using commercialized MI glass fiber post + Gradia Core as core build-up. Group B had teeth (non-ferrule) restored with commercialized i-TFC glass fiber post + sleeve system. In Group C, the teeth (non-ferrule) were restored with an experimental sleeve composite with commercialized MI glass fiber post and Gradia Core. Group D, teeth (non-ferrule), were restored using custom-made tapered E-glass filling post and Gradia Core. Group E, teeth (with ferrule), were restored with commercialized MI glass fiber post + Gradia Core. After core construction, all specimens underwent direct composite crown restoration and were loaded until fracture using a universal testing machine. Average fracture loads were compared, and the failure modes were observed. Group C exhibited significantly greater fracture strength than other groups (p < 0.05). Favorable fracture teeth ratio of group C was more than that of the other groups. Thus, the new experimental sleeve composite could be clinically useful for core construction of non-ferrule teeth.
Feasibility of Bi-Temporal Airborne Laser Scanning Data in Detecting Species-Specific Individual Tree Crown Growth of Boreal Forests
Authors: Poorazimy Maryam , Ronoud Ghasem , Yu Xiaowei , Luoma Ville , Hyyppä Juha , Saarinen Ninni , Kankare Ville , Vastaranta Mikko
Published: September 2022

The tree crown, with its functionality of assimilation, respiration, and transpiration, is a key forest ecosystem structure, resulting in high demand for characterizing tree crown structure and growth on a spatiotemporal scale. Airborne laser scanning (ALS) was found to be useful in measuring the structural properties associated with individual tree crowns. However, established ALS-assisted monitoring frameworks are still limited. The main objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of detecting species-specific individual tree crown growth by means of airborne laser scanning (ALS) measurements in 2009 (T1) and 2014 (T2). Our study was conducted in southern Finland over 91 sample plots with a size of 32 × 32 m. The ALS crown metrics of width (WD), projection area (A2D), volume (V), and surface area (A3D) were derived for species-specific individually matched trees in T1 and T2. The Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst), and birch (Betula sp.) were the three species groups that studied. We found a high capability of bi-temporal ALS measurements in the detection of species-specific crown growth (Δ), especially for the 3D crown metrics of V and A3D, with Cohen’s D values of 1.09–1.46 (p-value < 0.0001). Scots pine was observed to have the highest relative crown growth (rΔ) and showed statistically significant differences with Norway spruce and birch in terms of rΔWD, rΔA2D, rΔV, and rΔA3D at a 95% confidence interval. Meanwhile, birch and Norway spruce had no statistically significant differences in rΔWD, rΔV, and rΔA3D (p-value < 0.0001). However, the amount of rΔ variability that could be explained by the species was only 2–5%. This revealed the complex nature of growth controlled by many biotic and abiotic factors other than species. Our results address the great potential of ALS data in crown growth detection that can be used for growth studies at large scales.
Computational Efficient Motion Planning Method for Automated Vehicles Considering Dynamic Obstacle Avoidance and Traffic Interaction
Authors: Zhang Yuxiang , Wang Jiachen , Lv Jidong , Gao Bingzhao , Chu Hongqing , Na Xiaoxiang
Published: September 2022

In complex driving scenarios, automated vehicles should behave reasonably and respond adaptively with high computational efficiency. In this paper, a computational efficient motion planning method is proposed, which considers traffic interaction and accelerates calculation. Firstly, the behavior is decided by connecting the points on the unequally divided road segments and lane centerlines, which simplifies the decision-making process in both space and time span. Secondly, as the dynamic vehicle model with changeable longitudinal velocity is considered in the trajectory generation module, the C/GMRES algorithm is used to accelerate the calculation of trajectory generation and realize on-line solving in nonlinear model predictive control. Meanwhile, the motion of other traffic participants is more accurately predicted based on the driver’s intention and kinematics vehicle model, which enables the host vehicle to obtain a more reasonable behavior and trajectory. The simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Filter Modified with Hydrophilic and Oleophobic Coating for Efficient and Affordable Oil/Water Separation
Authors: Ross Hunter , Nguyen Huyen , Nguyen Brian , Foster Ashton , Salud James , Patino Mike , Gan Yong X. , Li Mingheng
Published: September 2022

To mitigate the damage of oil spills, a filter modified with a hydrophilic and oleophobic coating is proposed for affordable and efficient oil separation and recovery from water. The sol–gel method was chosen to produce a colloidal suspension of titanium dioxide particles for its ease of production and its versatility in application for many different substrates, including paper and cloth fabric. After immersing the substrates into a titanium-containing solution, three techniques were applied to increase the production of titanium dioxide—microwave-assisted, refrigeration, and ultra-sonication. Contact angle tests were done to investigate the change in the filter’s oleophobicity. The titanium dioxide present on the surface of the filter was amorphous, but all treatment methods showed an improvement in oleophobicity. All treated filters improved oil filtration performance by up to eighty percent. The filters isolated motor oil from a mixture while allowing water to pass through. The coated filters also displayed photocatalytic activity by degrading methylene blue on its surface when exposed to sunlight, demonstrating the filter’s self-cleaning ability. For real-world applications, the filter can be supported by a stainless mesh for enhanced strength and durability. While being dragged through the water, the filter collects the surface oil, allowing water to pass through via gravity.
The (Un)Changing Political Economy of Arts, Cultural and Community Engagement, the Creative Economy and Place-Based Development during Austere Times
Authors: Mutibwa Daniel H.
Published: September 2022

This article explores arts, cultural and community engagement (ACCE) in the context of enduring austerity in England. Working with a methodically crafted synthesis of theoretical perspectives drawn from (1) the critical political economy (CPE) tradition, (2) the sociology of cultural production, (3) cultural studies and critical strands of community development scholarship, and (4) pertinent discourses on the creative economy and place-based development, the article reviews the political, economic and institutional ecosystem within which a bottom-up approach to ACCE operates. Making use of ethnography for data-gathering, the article explores how three carefully selected case studies respond to the demands and pressures generated by, and associated with, corporate interest and top-down, policy-driven subsidy—including how such responses shape and position the work of the case studies in the contemporary creative economy and local place-based development. The article argues that ACCE contributes meaningfully to the development of self-governance and organic growth through egalitarian cross-sectoral alliances and cultural and social entrepreneurship. However, this happens only if the said ecosystem genuinely supports equality and social justice. Where such support is non-existent, established hierarchies perpetuate domination and exploitation. This stifles wider creative and cultural engagement on the terms of communities.
Evaluation of Indoor Thermal Comfort Conditions of Residential Traditional and Modern Buildings in a Warm-Humid Climate
Authors: Okafor Marcellinus U. , Awuzie Bankole Osita , Otasowie Kenneth , Marcel-Okafor Udochukwu , Aigbavboa Clinton
Published: September 2022

Achieving optimal levels of indoor thermal comfort in a warm, humid climate continues to pose a challenge to building occupants in such climatic regions. Buildings are either being retrofitted or designed differently to cater to thermal comfort. As a result, a variety of tactics have been deployed to guarantee optimal thermal comfort for occupants. Some scholars have highlighted the salient contributions of various types of construction materials toward the delivery of different housing types which perform differently under a diverse range of climatic conditions. A plethora of studies suggesting better indoor thermal comfort performance of traditional buildings as compared to contemporary dwellings due to various reasons have been observed. However, limited studies have sought to investigate this suggestion within warm, humid climatic regions. As such, this study engages in an evaluation of indoor thermal comfort qualities of traditional and modern buildings during the dry season with the goal of developing design guidelines for a thermally pleasant environment in a town, Okigwe, which is situated in a warm, humid climatic region in Southeastern Nigeria. Data were collected utilizing a field measurement technique. Throughout the survey period, variables of the indoor environment such as relative humidity and air temperature were recorded concurrently in nine selected buildings, two traditional and seven modern buildings. The fluctuations and differences in relative humidity and air temperature between the two building types were investigated using Z-test statistical techniques. The study’s results revealed that the contemporary structures’ indoor air temperature (29.4 °C) was 0.6 °C higher than traditional buildings’ indoor air temperature (28.8 °C). Therefore, the study recommends that architects and planners should make concerted efforts to integrate methods of passive design into the provision of a comfortable indoor thermal environment rather than relying solely on active design strategies, which whilst lacking in traditional buildings, nonetheless did not prevent such buildings from recording lower air temperature readings compared to modern buildings.
Ensuring Sustainability via Application of Root Zone Technology in a Rubber Product Industry: A Circular Economy Approach
Authors: C Gajendran , Jacob Lydia , Gautam Sneha , Singh Nitin Kumar , Kumar Roshini Praveen
Published: September 2022

Rapid urbanization has led to the exploitation of water quality and quantity. Urban growth and its activities result in the pollution of freshwater by generating different types of waste. Root Zone Technology (RZT) has successfully been adopted and employed in several countries to promote sustainable development. RZT paves the way for the incorporation of automated dynamics into an artificial soil ecosystem. This study’s primary goal was to develop a water treatment process for industrial effluents naturally and effectively using RZT. The technology adopts layers of coarse and fine aggregates, charcoal, sand, and planted filter beds consisting of compost media to treat effluents; the system is easily installed, low-maintenance, and has low operational costs. Selected plants achieved a result of 50–80% pollutant removal. RZT reduces the characteristics of effluents, such as chemical oxygen demand, biochemical oxygen demand, pH, color, TSS, TDS, BOD, COD, etc., by a more significant amount. Further studies of more plant species should be performed to improve this technology. Soil tests will also be an excellent option for understanding the concepts of reed absorption mechanisms. In addition, incorporating modeling in agricultural systems will be beneficial for future studies.
Blockchain Enhanced Construction Waste Information Management: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Liu Zhen , Wu Tzuhui , Wang Fenghong , Osmani Mohamed , Demian Peter
Published: September 2022

Despite the large quantities of secondary materials flowing within the built environment, their actual volume and respective waste management processes are not accurately known and recorded. Consequently, various sustainability and material efficiency policies are not supported by accurate data and information-reporting associated with secondary materials’ availability and sourcing. Many recent studies have shown that the integration of digital technologies such as city information management (CIM), building information modeling (BIM), and blockchain have the potential to enhance construction waste management (CWM) by classifying recycled materials and creating value from waste. However, there is insufficient guidance to address the challenges during the process of CWM. Therefore, the research reported in this paper aims to develop a blockchain-enhanced construction waste information management conceptual framework (BeCW). This paper is the first attempt to apply the strengths of integrated information-management modeling with blockchain to optimize the process of CWM, which includes a WasteChain for providing a unified and trustworthy credit system for evaluating construction-waste-recyclability to stakeholders. This is enabled through the use of blockchain and self-executing smart contracts to clarify the responsibility and ownership of the relevant stakeholders. As a result, this study provides a unified and explicit framework for referencing which quantifies the value-contribution of stakeholders to waste-recovery and the optimization of secondary construction materials for reuse and recycling. It also addresses the issue of sustainable CWM through information exchange at four levels: user, application, service, and infrastructure data levels.
Design (Allocation) of a Carbon Emission System—A Lesson from Power Restrictions in Zhejiang, China
Authors: Xiong Feng , Zeng Xiaoyu , Xie Yi (Fionna) , Li Yan
Published: September 2022

This paper discusses how to design (allocate) a city-level carbon emission system, considering the recent outbreak (end of 2020) of electricity consumption restrictions in a few cities in Zhejiang, China. Although these measures aimed to achieve environmental goals, they had a certain negative impact on residents’ lives and foreign trade production. This paper argues that local authorities should be more flexible in formulating performance targets, incorporate interactive feedback in performance management, and utilize assessment results and better government internal control. This paper proposes a (national) strategic plan to achieve carbon control through the implementation of a circular economy, such as the design of a carbon emission system considering the economic development (supporting industry) in each city and a city-level carbon trading market.
Board Composition and ESG Disclosure in Saudi Arabia: The Moderating Role of Corporate Governance Reforms
Authors: Chebbi Kaouther , Ammer Mohammed Abdullah
Published: September 2022

There is an evolving trend of pursuing the transfer to sustainable development. Owing to this trend, and alongside the increasing monitoring by society, companies are progressively considering this new position in the capital market. Corporate governance mechanisms and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities have received extensive consideration. Using a sample of Saudi listed companies, this study examines the association between board composition (size, independence, and gender diversity) and ESG disclosure moderated by corporate governance reforms. Our reported results confirm that the size of a board and its level of independence have positive and significant impacts on ESG disclosure. Moreover, board gender diversity is found to be positively but insignificantly related with ESG disclosure. When the individual dimensions of ESG are considered, the results verify the significant role of board size and board independence and the insignificant impact of board gender diversity in environmental and social disclosures. Interestingly, all measures of board composition have a positive and significant impact on the governance disclosure score. The results also show that reforms of Saudi corporate governance positively and significantly moderate the board size and board independence–ESG relationship. Our results demonstrate that the enhancement of companies’ corporate governance will increase their ESG disclosures. This study offers perceptions from the outlook of a developing economy, Saudi Arabia, and presents theoretical and managerial implications for policymakers and investors.
Infrastructure Performance and Irrigation Water Governance in Genadendal, Western Cape, South Africa
Authors: Mugejo Kudzai , Ncube Bongani , Mutsvangwa Crispen
Published: September 2022

Disasters such as the 2015–2018 drought in South Africa usually negatively impact agricultural water, especially in smallholder farming systems. This study assessed the availability of irrigation water, performance of irrigation infrastructure, and water governance systems in Genadendal, Western Cape, with a focus on smallholder farmers. Data for streamflow, dam levels, and rainfall were acquired from water institutions and analysed using Microsoft Excel. The performance of the infrastructure and water governance were assessed based on the perceptions of smallholder farmers and key informants. A questionnaire was administered to eight smallholder farmers, followed by a focus group discussion with fifteen smallholder farmers. Interviews were conducted with eight key informants who worked in water-related institutions. Qualitative data from the interviews were analysed using thematic content analysis. The study showed adequate agricultural water resources during the 2015–2018 drought period for the smallholder farmers who relied on water from dams. However, smallholder farmers who relied on the Riviersonderend River experienced severe water shortages during the same period. The findings showed poor performance of irrigation water infrastructure due to inadequate maintenance. Lack of coordination among institutions, insufficient funding, political interference, fragmentation of roles and responsibilities, lack of human resources, and farmers’ lack of participation and commitment in water resource management all contributed to the dysfunctionality of irrigation water governance systems, leading to water insecurity. This study concludes that while agricultural water resources in Genadendal are sufficient, water governance systems need improvement in order to strengthen the water security status for smallholder farmers. This study recommends adequate funding for the operation and maintenance of infrastructure. Furthermore, water institutions need to support smallholder farmers with training skills in agricultural water management and infrastructure maintenance. Further studies are recommended to quantify the amount of water lost due to the poor performance of water infrastructure and to develop effective water governance in Genadendal. In addition, issues relating to crop varieties and changes in cropping intensity during drought periods need to be considered in future studies.
Environmental Regulation and Green Technology Innovation: Evidence from China’s Heavily Polluting Companies
Authors: Lin Zhouzhou , Liang Dezhi , Li Shengnan
Published: September 2022

The green transformation of heavily polluting companies is essential for sustainable development. This study investigated the direct effects of environmental regulation on two types of green technology innovations at the microlevel and explored the moderating effects of three levels of firm supervision—government, public, and internal. Analyzing a panel of China’s heavily polluting companies during 2011–2020, we find that environmental regulation inhibits both types of green technology innovation. However, the degree of such inhibition varies with different moderators. Specifically, lower environmental pressure and better internal corporate controls can weaken or even reverse the inhibition of green invention innovation, while higher media attention can weaken the inhibition of green utility-model innovation. Our findings thus extend the literature on the scenarios of environmental regulation by revealing the heterogeneous moderating effects of government-, public-, and firm-level factors on two types of green innovation. Moreover, our findings have practical implications for promoting the green transformation of heavily polluting companies.
The Impacts of COVID-19 on the Rank-Size Distribution of Regional Tourism Central Places: A Case of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area
Authors: Xu Xiaohui
Published: September 2022

It is well known that Zipf’s rank-size law is powerful to investigate the rank-size distribution of tourist flow. Recently, widespread attention has been drawn to investigating the impacts of COVID-19 on tourism for its sustainability. However, little is known about the impacts of COVID-19 on the rank-size distribution of regional tourism central places. Taking Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as a research case, this article aims to examine the fractal characteristics of the rank-size distribution of regional tourism central places, revealing the impacts which COVID-19 has on the rank-size distribution of regional tourism central places. Based on the census data over the years from 2008 to 2021, this paper reveals that before COVID-19, the rank-size distribution of the tourism central places in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area appears monofractal, and the difference in the size of the tourism central places has a tendency to gradually decrease; in 2020, with the outbreak of COVID-19, the characteristic of the rank-size distribution shows that the original monofractal is broken into multifractal; in 2021, with COVID-19 becoming under control, the structure of tourism size distribution, changes into bifractal based on the original multifractal, showing that the rank-size distribution of tourism central places in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area becomes more ideal and the tourism order becomes better than the last year. The results obtained not only fill in the gap about the impacts of COVID-19 on tourism size distribution, but also contribute to the application of fractal theory to tourism size distribution. In addition, we propose some suggestions to the local governments and tourism authorities which have practical significance to tourism planning.
Nutritional Composition and Antioxidant Properties of the Wild Edible Fruits of Tripura, Northeast India
Authors: Biswas Suresh Chandra , Kumar Pramanand , Kumar Raj , Das Subrata , Misra Tarun Kumar , Dey Dipankar
Published: September 2022

Fruits that are rich in nutrients and have antioxidant properties are essentially required for human health. These fruits are quite demanding to use pharmaceutically to produce natural drugs. Tripura, a Northeast state of India, is abundant in wild edible fruits, the nutritional values of which have not yet been fully explored. The nutrient composition and antioxidant properties of 06 (six) wild edible fruits viz. Wild orange (Citrus macroptera), Chinese lard (Hodgsonia macrocarpa Cogn.), Madhabilata (Stixis suaveolens Roxb. Pierre), Wild small black Jamun (Syzygium assamicum), Indian coffee plum (Flacourtia jangomas Lour. Raeusch), and Gamboge (Garcinia gummi-gutta (L.) Robs) were explored and are reported in this paper. All the observations were statistically analyzed and properly presented here. The study reveals that wild orange (220.75 mg/100 g) and Indian coffee plum (223.25 mg/100 g) are vitamin C-rich fruits. Madhabilata has high protein content (0.744%), whereas Gamboge yields an energetic fruit (124.92 Kcal/100 g). The energy parameter has a good correlation with ash (correlation coefficient (r) = 0.68), TSS (r = 0.62), and protein (r = 0.83). Nutrient minerals (mg/100 g), in general, are found quite high in wild orange (Na, 170.4; K, 55.40; Mg, 61.53; Zn, 6.85; Cu, 6.25). There is a good correlation between Na and K (r = 0.58). Antioxidant activity (81.15 μmol/g) and metal chelating capacity (MCC) (39.45 mg/mL) are high in wild orange, and they have an excellent correlation (r = 0.97). It has quite a high value of total phenolic content (TPC) (303.89 mg GAE/g) and total flavonoid content (TFC) (36.78 mg QE/g) as well. TPC and TFC have good correlations with antioxidant parameters (r = 0.81 with TPC and 0.86 with TFC). Chloride (4.35 mg/100 g), nitrate (0.639 μg/100 g), and As(III) (0.27 mg/100 g) contents are found high in Indian coffee plum, Madhabilata, and Wild black Jamun, respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that total sugar, zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu) are the important indicators to be given emphasis while studying the nutritional value of these minor fruits. Moreover, the results would provide a baseline database for the nutrient profile of these fruits as well as enhance awareness among the masses regarding the value of the fruit, which enhances and conserves the biodiversity of the forest area of Tripura.
Visiting Intentions toward Theme Parks: Do Short Video Content and Tourists’ Perceived Playfulness on TikTok Matter?
Authors: Wang Xi , Yu Yun , Zhu Zhe , Zheng Jie
Published: September 2022

TikTok, along with other social media platforms, has emerged as one of the most important tools for many people, particularly millennials. Because the relationship between social media and customers’ behavioral intentions has long been a topic of discussion in the hospitality industry, the purpose of this study was to look into the potential determinants of customers’ visiting intentions toward Universal Studios Beijing on short video platforms such as TikTok. In addition, descriptive analysis was also conducted to show the demographic and other basic characteristics of the sample. The findings revealed that social interaction, informativeness, and trust had significant effects on perceived usefulness, as well as significant influences on the related visiting intentions from the perceived usefulness, ease of use, and playfulness. This study filled in the research gaps of the TikTok studies based on the extended technology acceptance model (TAM) and explored the effects of perceived playfulness on the theme park. This study can contribute to the formulation of operational and marketing strategies by theme park marketers, help internet vloggers with content creation and development, and provide suggestions to local governments for tourism destination management.
Brittleness Evolution Model of the Supply Chain Network Based on Adaptive Agent Graph Theory under the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cao Wei , Wang Xifu
Published: September 2022

The triggering of supply chain brittleness has a significant impact on enterprise benefits under attack from the COVID-19 pandemic. The complexity of the supply chain system, the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, and demand uncertainty have made the triggering and propagation of supply chain brittleness complicated. In this study, a brittleness evolution model based on adaptive agent graph theory has been constructed. The parameters of brittleness evolution, including brittleness entropy and the vertex state value, have been quantitatively designed, and the brittleness evolution model in which the adaptability of nodes is considered and is not considered is constructed. A simulation algorithm based on the integrated scheduling model of the supply chain has been established. Finally, the practicability of the proposed model and algorithm is demonstrated via a case study of an electronic supply chain network. The results indicate that the proposed model and algorithm can effectively analyze the brittleness evolution law of the supply chain under the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including the evolution law of the vertex state, the brittleness entropy of the vertex, the global entropy of brittleness, the seasonal evolution law of the supply chain brittleness, and the evolution law of the brittleness behavior.
Experimental Study on the Strength and Stress–Strain Properties of Waste Concrete Fine Aggregate and Cement-Solidified Sludge
Authors: Bian Xiaoya , Yang Haodong , Chen Jiale , Liu Hui , Chen Xuyong
Published: September 2022

In this study, waste concrete fine aggregates and cement are applied to sludge solidification and resource recycling. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) test is performed to investigate the variation in the strength and stress–strain properties of the solidified sludge with the content and particle size of waste concrete fine aggregate, cement content, and curing time. The results show that incorporating waste concrete fine aggregates can improve the UCS of cement-solidified sludge, which can achieve the optimum effect when the fine aggregate content ranges from 12% to 15%. However, compared with the fine aggregate content, the cement content and curing time are the main factors in improving the strength of waste concrete fine aggregate and cement-solidified sludge (WCSS). The stress–strain curves of WCSS comprise four stages. The failure strain εf of WCSS with four fine aggregate contents decreases in a power function with the increase in qu, and εf is mostly distributed when the content is 1.1–2.1%. A linear relationship is observed between E50 and qu. This study attempts to promote the recycling of waste concrete fine aggregates and obtain solidified sludge with excellent mechanical properties, providing some reference for practical engineering applications.
Human Circular Tourism as the Tourism of Tomorrow: The Role of Travellers in Achieving a More Sustainable and Circular Tourism
Authors: Bosone Martina , Nocca Francesca
Published: September 2022

Nowadays, the challenge of sustainability is increasingly played out in cities, which represent the favoured field of action to implement strategies and actions for supporting the transition towards a more human and ecological development paradigm. The problems caused by the current economic model (linear model) are even more stressed today due to the effects produced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The tourism sector (one of the world’s major economic sectors and, thus, one of the main players in the development dynamics) is one of the economic sectors that has been the most negatively impacted by the pandemic. In this study, Human Circular Tourism (HCT) is proposed as a strategy to move towards a more sustainable future and, thus, reduce the negative impacts produced by the tourism sector. In particular, the objective of this paper is to understand the awareness of travellers (one of the categories of actors involved in the tourism experience) regarding sustainable and circular tourism in order to support local governments in the elaboration and implementation of strategies and actions towards more sustainable and circular tourism. To this end, a survey was conducted. In particular, a questionnaire was developed and submitted to a sample of tourists from all over the world to understand their behaviours and perceptions in their tourist experiences. From a critical analysis of the results, it emerges that there is a growing awareness of issues related to the concept of sustainability, especially in relation to the major issues of climate change and people’s health. This perception has certainly been influenced by the health emergency from COVID-19, but the sample of interviewees reveals that much still needs to be invested in increasing their awareness of the complexity of the factors involved in more sustainable, circular, and human-centred tourism. Therefore, starting from this, possible future prospects for the tourism sector from the circular economy perspective are here identified.
Study on the Construction of a Health Lifestyle for Older People in the Longevous Area in China
Authors: Yang Mengqi , Zhu Hong , Li Xueyan , Gong Weixia , Pang Xiaomei , Lv Danna
Published: September 2022

During the past 40 years of reform and opening-up, China has witnessed great progress in people’s health status. Both the occurrence of diseases and people’s understanding of health have undergone profound changes. Scholars are focusing on changing socioeconomic factors to maintain health lifestyles, and creating healthy “human–land” relations to prevent diseases. From the perspective of health geography, this research conducted field work in Bama, a longevous area in the Guangxi province in China, and applied the theoretical framework of health lifestyles theory to clarify the construction process of health lifestyles for older people in Bama. The roles and characteristics of different social relations in creating health lifestyles are revealed. The findings of this research can provide a new paradigm for China’s health practice research from two aspects: (1) the production of health lifestyles is a knowledge construction process, taking into account the influence of social circumstances, politics, economy, culture, policy, and values; and (2) social attributes affect health lifestyles by reconstructing and improving social relations.