bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Pesticide Residues on Soil Health for Sustainable Vegetable Production in Arid Areas
Authors: Faraj Turki Kh. , EL-Saeid Mohamed Hamza , Najim Mohamed M. M. , Chieb Maha
Published: January 2024

The assessment of pesticide residues in agricultural soils is an essential prerogative in maintaining environmental health standards. Intensive vegetable cultivation is practiced in the Al-Kharj area of the eastern Najd region of Saudi Arabia, where excessive applications of agrochemicals are reported to pollute vegetable-growing soils, challenging the sustainable management of soils and groundwater resources. This study aimed to monitor the levels of thirty-two types of pesticide residues in the soils of vegetable fields and the estimated potential health risk for humans due to non-dietary exposure to pesticides in soils in the Al-Kharj region. Pesticide residues were evaluated at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm depths at 20 sampling sites from Al-Kharj. Gas chromatograph-mass spectrometry, coupled with a quadrupole mass spectrometer with a GC column, was used in the analysis. The results indicated that agrochemical residues show prolonged soil pollution that may cause adverse impacts on human and environment. Herbicides Atrazine, Isoproturpon, and Linuron have been detected in the soils, and these pose many problematic environmental threats. Bromoxynil, Pendimetholin, and Diclofop-methyl could be used as per the recommendations to sustainably manage soil and water resources in the Al-Kharj area. Resmethrin, Methidathion, Ethoprophos, Tetramethrin, Bromophis-methyl, Bifenthion, Permethrin, Fenoxycarb, Cyfluthrin, Phosmet, and Azinophos-methyl can be used safely in the Al-Kharj agricultural area, maintaining sustainable soils and water resources. Applications of Carbaryl require sufficient care, while Endosulfan, Deltamethrin, Lindane, Chlorpyrifos, Chlorpyrifos-methly, Dimethoate, Heptachlor, and Mevinphos, which are detected in soils, require policy guidelines to limit the use to ensure sustainability. Policy interventions need to be formulated to increase the sustainability of soil management and groundwater resources in the Al-Kharj region to ensure the safety of people who are in direct contact with the agrochemicals used and to ensure the safety of agricultural products generated in this region.
A Qualitative Exploration of the Influence of Climate Change on Migration of Women in the Riverine Area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Michael Turnwait Otu
Published: January 2024

The riverine region of Bayelsa State, Nigeria, faces a critical issue as the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and disruptions to traditional livelihoods, disproportionately affect women. This qualitative study aimed to fill a gap in understanding by exploring the nuanced ways in which these environmental challenges influence the migration decisions of women who have fled floods, remain displaced, and have opted not to return to prevent potential negative experiences linked to future flooding in the region. The research delves into the interplay between climate change, gender dynamics, and community resilience. Employing an exploratory research design with purposive and snowball sampling techniques, the study selected 51 female participants. Through 24 in-depth interviews and three focus group discussions, the research captured the nuanced experiences of women grappling with the challenges posed by climate change. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the collected data. The study unveiled that climate change significantly shapes the migration decisions of women in the riverine area of Bayelsa State. This influence manifests through disrupted livelihoods, flooding, water scarcity, diseases and health challenges, housing insecurity, increased environmental vulnerabilities, and uncertain future prospects. These findings underscore the pressing need for gender-responsive policies and community-based strategies to address the complex interplay between climate change impacts and women’s migration experiences.
A Comparison of Clinical Outcomes of Robot-Assisted and Conventional Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Chabot Storm , Calleja-Agius Jean , Horeman Tim
Published: January 2024

Background: Although robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery has become more in popular, it remains unclear what clinical advantages it offers over conventional laparoscopic surgery. Objective: This (systematic) umbrella review aims to synthesize and compare the clinical outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery versus conventional laparoscopic surgery. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Scopus. All systematic reviews and meta-analyses published in the past five years that compared the clinical outcomes for cholecystectomy, colectomy, hysterectomy, nephrectomy, and/or prostatectomy were included. The quality of all included reviews was assessed with the AMSTAR 2 quality assessment tool. Each review’s study characteristics and primary sources were extracted, along with the quantitative and qualitative data for blood loss, rate of conversion to open surgery, hospitalization costs, incisional hernia rate, intraoperative complication rate, postoperative complication rate, length of hospital stay, operative time, readmission rate, and wound infection. Results: Fifty-two systematic reviews and (network) meta-analyses were included in this umbrella review, covering more than 1,288,425 patients from 1046 primary sources published between 1996 and 2022. The overall quality of the included reviews was assessed to be low or critically low. Robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery yielded comparable results to conventional laparoscopic surgery in terms of blood loss, conversion to open surgery rate, intraoperative complication rate, postoperative complication rate, readmission rate, and wound infection rate for most surgical procedures. While the hospitalization costs of robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery were higher and the operative times of robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery were longer than conventional laparoscopic surgery, robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery reduced the length of hospital stay of patients in nearly all cases. Conclusion: Robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery achieved comparable results with conventional laparoscopic surgery for cholecystectomy, colectomy, hysterectomy, nephrectomy, and prostatectomy based on ten clinical outcomes.
The Impact of Dissolved Organic Matter on Photodegradation Rates, Byproduct Formations, and Degradation Pathways for Two Neonicotinoid Insecticides in Simulated River Waters
Authors: Borsuah Josephus F. , Messer Tiffany L. , Snow Daniel D. , Comfort Steven D. , Bartelt-Hunt Shannon
Published: January 2024

The influences of dissolved organic matter (DOM) on neonicotinoid photochemical degradation and product formation in natural waters remain unclear, potentially impacting the sustainability of river systems. Therefore, our overall objective was to investigate the photodegradation mechanisms and phototransformation byproducts of two neonicotinoid pesticides, imidacloprid and thiamethoxam, under simulated sunlight at the microcosm scale, to assess the implications of DOM for insecticide degradation in rivers. Direct and indirect photolysis were investigated using twelve water matrices to identify possible reaction pathways with two DOM sources and three quenching agents. Imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, and potential degradants were measured, and reaction pathways identified. The photodegradation rates for imidacloprid (0.156 to 0.531 h−1) and thiamethoxam (0.027 to 0.379 h−1) were measured. The Mississippi River DOM with 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinyloxy resulted in rapid formation of imidacloprid desnitro and imidacloprid urea as compared to other treatments. These observations indicate that the production of reactive oxygen species has the potential to influence the photodegradation of imidacloprid, via indirect photolysis, resulting in the formation of degradation products (e.g., imidacloprid desnitro) potentially harmful to non-target species. The findings offer insight into the potential role DOM in river systems has on sustainable water quality related to these two neonicotinoid degradation pathways and byproduct formations.
Evaluation of Greywater as a Sustainable Source of Irrigation for Ornamental Crops in Green Walls—A Study of Plant and Soil Using Ruellia tuberosa
Authors: Anangadan Shaheeda Marakkar , Pradhan Snigdhendubala , Saththasivam Jayaprakash , McKay Gordon , Mackey Hamish Robert
Published: January 2024

Green walls and roofs are sustainable building systems with several benefits. However, the irrigation requirements of these building systems conflict with water sustainability goals in water-scarce places. This study investigates using greywater directly to irrigate ornamental species for such situations by examining the effects of freshwater and greywater irrigation on Ruellia tuberosa growth, plant health and soil characteristics. Five replicates for each condition were grown for 91 days. Greywater irrigation led to a 15% higher plant growth height, a 31% higher plant biomass (p = 0.065), and a 71% increase in stem biomass (p < 0.001) compared to freshwater irrigation. However, greywater-irrigated plants had reduced chlorophyll content (10.7%, p < 0.001), and increased leaf chlorosis (p = 0.003), likely caused by stress from laundry and detergent chemicals. Greywater irrigation led to greater mineral content in greywater-irrigated plant biomass and soil for all minerals tested, most notably boron, which was deficient in the soil. Greywater-irrigated soil also had a higher organic content according to FTIR and electron dispersive spectroscopy. Greywater irrigation improved nutritional and soil conditions, including phosphate, which helped Ruellia tuberosa flourish. This study suggests raw greywater can replace freshwater in water-scarce climates for green wall irrigation instead of high-energy onsite greywater treatment systems.
Geocultural Heritage as a Basis for Themed GeoTown—The “Józefów StoneTown” Model in the Roztocze Region (SE Poland)
Authors: Brzezińska-Wójcik Teresa
Published: January 2024

In many areas, the use of stone in architecture and art represents one of the most significant links between geological and cultural heritage. These links are used for the creation of themed places that fit into the marketing strategy of such places/towns, supporting their management and promoting geotourism as a form of sustainable tourism. In this field, the inhabitants and municipal authorities of the Józefów area have not yet used their full potential. This article presents the features of geological heritage and connected cultural heritage (stonemasonry) in the area of Józefów with a view to building a geotown in the context of the “Kamienny Las na Roztoczu” (“Stone Forest in Roztocze”) planned geopark. These features were analysed from three points of view: research (field inventory of sites and secondary data queries), perception of heritage by two groups of tourists (queries of secondary data obtained from the Tourist Information Centre and diagnostic survey), and perception of heritage by inhabitants (diagnostic survey). The results of the research show that the multicomponent and interdisciplinary space of Józefów contains closely interrelated geological and cultural features. These can be the basis for creating a themed town, which can drive its sustainable economic development and give the town a broader supralocal dimension.
Key Factors Influencing Chinese Consumers’ Demand for Naturally Dyed Garments: Data Analysis through KJ Method and KANO Model
Authors: Xu Huiya , Song Ha-young
Published: January 2024

The growing global emphasis on environmental issues has driven companies to exert greater efforts on making their products more sustainable. Natural dyeing, an eco-friendly dyeing method used in the textile and apparel industry, is safer for both the environment and human health, aligning with the needs of sustainable design development. This paper examines the key factors affecting Chinese consumers’ satisfaction with naturally dyed garments, aiming to provide research-based strategies for the design and development of such garments. In this study, we utilized the KJ method for the detailed categorization of the functionalities of naturally dyed garments, establishing five dimensions and thirty demand indicators. Based on this, the KANO model, coupled with the Better–Worse coefficient and the quadrant analysis method, was used to classify different demand items, ranking their satisfaction and importance. The results indicate that the wearing experience and environmental characteristics of products are key determinants influencing Chinese consumers’ demand for naturally dyed clothing. The top five factors significantly impacting product satisfaction, in descending order of importance, are comfort, environmentally friendly dyeing techniques, safety, degradability, and durability. Therefore, to ensure consumer satisfaction with naturally dyed clothing, these factors should be prioritized when establishing a support system that caters to consumer needs. Our findings can help companies to better understand consumers’ actual need for naturally dyed garments, enabling the more targeted development and optimization of such garments, enhancing product competitiveness, and promoting the green transformation and sustainable development of enterprises. Simultaneously, this study also contributes novel theoretical approaches and ideas for future research on consumer demand.
A1–A5 Embodied Carbon Assessment to Evaluate Bio-Based Components in Façade System Modules
Authors: Morganti Luca , Vandi Laura , Astudillo Larraz Julen , García-Jaca Javier , Navarro Muedra Arsenio , Pracucci Alessandro
Published: January 2024

As the construction industry moves toward sustainable building practices, incorporating wood-based materials into building envelope systems has become a priority. This paper investigates the environmental impact of three custom bio-composite Façade System Modules (FSMs) through an Embodied Carbon Assessment (ECA), focused on the Global Warming Potential indicator of life cycle stages from cradle to practical completion (A1–A5). The evaluated FSMs were developed within the Basajaun H2020 project (G.A. 862942), by substituting and combining conventional materials with other bio-composite products to form hybrids from bio-based polymers and wood. A benchmark ECA was conducted, simulating alternative FSMs devised with common practice solutions for the curtain wall façade to facilitate a comprehensive comparison. The life cycle inventory encompassed detailed technical information, fostering the utilization of primary data for accuracy. The study particularly highlights considerations over three technological systems of the modules that incorporate increased use of wood-based components and a novel bio-composite material: the frame profiles, the insulation equipment, and the seal system. Despite the challenges due to the Basajaun FSMs’ weight, the findings reveal that replacing the currently used materials with wood-based materials and bio-composites reduced the embodied emissions, particularly substituting aluminum frame profiles. The insights presented here offer indicators toward circular, environmentally conscious, bio-composed building envelopes, emphasizing the need for continued analysis and refinements as a consequence of increasing the accuracy of the available primary data from the supply chain and concerning end-of-life scenarios.
Towards Sustainable Education with the Use of Mobile Augmented Reality in Early Childhood and Primary Education: A Systematic Mapping
Authors: Criollo-C Santiago , Guerrero-Arias Andrea , Guaña-Moya Javier , Samala Agariadne , Luján-Mora Sergio
Published: January 2024

Over the years, educational institutions have faced significant difficulties in the teaching process at all educational levels, due to lack of motivation, concentration, attention, and confidence, among other aspects. In this sense, information and communication technologies can be the answer to transform educational models. One of the most promising and accessible technologies in recent years is mobile augmented reality (MAR), which allows students to visualize content through a mobile device combining the real environment with a virtual environment, providing an interactive and digital vision of the physical world in real time. The appropriate use of digital technologies in early childhood and primary education can promote socialization, comprehension, learning, language development, attention, and other educational benefits. However, due to the novelty of this technology, there is limited research and a gap in the literature on the use of MAR at these educational levels. This research work, through systematic mapping, aims to give an overview of how AR and mobile devices have been used in the last decade, which academic areas have benefited from the use of this innovative academic approach, and the main benefits and problems of using this technology in early and primary education. The findings are encouraging and show that AR technology, together with mobile devices, can be used to support the teaching of science, mathematics, reading, language, geography, etc.
Does Size Really Matter for the Place Attachment of High-Rise and Low-Rise Housing Estates? A Budapest Case Study
Authors: Nzimande Ntombifuthi Precious , Morris-Kolawole Feroza
Published: January 2024

The current research seeks to understand the relationship between residential satisfaction and place attachment by assessing where significant differences exist in the social environment among people living in low-rise and high-rise housing estates in Budapest, Hungary. The study employed multistage sampling techniques to collect information on the social environment and the residential satisfaction of individuals living in Budapest’s low-rise and high-rise housing estates. The data consisted of 213 participants over the age of 18. Results reveal that a decrease in the number of dependents within both high-rise (p = 0.013) and low-rise (p < 0.001) estates, as well as smaller household sizes in both high-rise (p = 0.013) and low-rise (p = 0.005) estates, aligns with lower satisfaction with the social environment. Habitability indices suggest that low-rise estates generally foster a more positive perception of the social environment, stronger community connections, and higher trust among neighbours, supporting the hypothesis that residents in high-rise estates may be dissatisfied with their social surroundings. Notably, the logistic regression analysis highlights a negative association (β = −0.12) between the satisfaction index (SI) and overall satisfaction in high-rise housing, emphasizing that higher SI values are linked to lower odds of satisfaction in this context. Conversely, the low-rise model shows a statistically significant positive association (p < 0.005) between SI and overall satisfaction. Thus, the size of the residential building does matter when it comes to individuals feeling attached to their residential environment.
Study on Nitrogen Migration during Co-Pyrolysis of Melamine-Impregnated Paper Waste and Camellia Oleifera Shell
Authors: Zhuo Zhen , Li Yanling , Liu Peng , Sun Tanglei , Lei Tingzhou
Published: January 2024

Melamine-impregnated paper waste (MIPW) is an unavoidable byproduct of the melamine-impregnated paper production process, and it must be urgently disposed. In this paper, due to its high N content, MIPW was used as a N source to co-pyrolyze with camellia oleifera shell (COS). By changing the proportion of MIPW in the raw materials, the migration path of the N was studied during the co-pyrolysis process. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), elemental analysis (EA), total nitrogen analysis (TN) and ultraviolet spectrophotometry were used to determine the content and the types of N-containing components in raw materials and products. The results showed that during the co-pyrolysis process, the N in MIPW and COS would be converted into different types of N-containing components, and the proportion of MIPW in raw materials directly impacts the product distribution and the N migration path. With the increase in the proportion of MIPW from 10 to 50 wt.% (daf, mass ratio), the proportion of N in raw materials that migrated into the solid phase decreased from 27.58 to 16.31 wt.%, while that which migrated to the gas and liquid phases increased from 24.92 and 47.50 wt.% to 25.97 and 57.72 wt.%, respectively. The proportions of N in the raw materials that changed into pyridinic-N, pyrrolic-N and graphitic-N in the solid phase and N2-N in the gas phase were decreased. The proportions of NH3-N and HCN-N in the gas phase and NH3-N and organic-N in the liquid phase were increased. Moreover, synergies were observed during the co-pyrolysis process, which affected the N migration path in the raw material. This study will provide policy directions and theoretical support for the comprehensive utilization of MIPW and COS.
Optimized Scheduling of Integrated Energy Systems Accounting for Hydrogen Energy Multi-Utilization Models
Authors: Guo Chengkang , Abuduwayiti Xiwang , Shang Yiming , Huang Leiyu , Cui Chuanshi
Published: January 2024

To cope with the growing penetration rate of renewable energy and to enhance the absorption capacity of wind power, this paper investigates the applications of an Integrated Energy System (IES), Hydrogen Compressed Natural Gas (HCNG), and power-to-hydrogen (P2H) devices within the IES. It employs power-to-gas and gas blending with hydrogen to construct an efficient electricity–gas–electricity energy flow loop, establishing a Natural Gas–Electricity Coupling System (NGECS) model. On this basis, a coordinated scheduling method for gas–electric coupling systems using gas blended with hydrogen is proposed. A carbon trading mechanism is introduced to constrain carbon emissions, further reducing the system’s carbon footprint. Multiple scenarios are set up for a comparative analysis in order to validate the effectiveness of the proposed model. This study also analyzes the impact of different hydrogen blending ratios and methods on the low-carbon and economic performance of IES.
Multi-Factor GIS Modeling for Solid Waste Dumpsite Selection in Lilongwe, Malawi
Authors: Kalisha Stephen Mandiza , Munthali Kondwani Godwin
Published: January 2024

Solid waste disposal is an essential component of any waste management system, but finding suitable solid waste disposal sites is seen as the main challenge. The goal of this study was to locate solid waste disposal facilities in Lilongwe that would not present logistical or operational difficulties. We used a hybrid approach involving qualitative and quantitative methods. Primary and secondary data were collected, through interviews, questionnaires, and GPS for coordinates. The study considered 10 suitability factors of slopes, rivers, soil types, built-up areas, airports, forests, wetlands, current dumpsites, roads, and railways weighted using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). We analyzed site selection techniques, evaluated the current dumpsite, and created a multi-factor geographic information system (GIS) model. This study found that the current dumpsite is dangerous for human health and is close to homes. Additionally, this research reveals that the most popular techniques for choosing the location of a solid waste disposal facility are the AHP and weighted linear combination (WLC) coupled with GIS. Out of 46,283 Ha in Lilongwe, 84.07% are unsuitable, 14.97% are suitable, and 0.96% are highly suitable for solid waste disposal sites. Six sites with capacities ranging from 28 Ha to 94 Ha were identified as optimal to reduce operational costs in areas 55, 44, 58, and 61. Further waste recycling initiatives are recommended to reduce solid waste volume and promote sustainable waste management practices.
Contribution to the Net-Zero Emissions Target from the Transport Sector through Electric Mobility—A Case of Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Rajbhandari Salony , Shrestha Shubha Laxmi , Bhandari Ramchandra , Jha Ajay Kumar , Darlami Hari Bahadur
Published: January 2024

Globally, the transportation sector stands as the third largest contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Nepal is no exception, relying entirely on imported petroleum products. The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu Valley, with its unique bowl-shaped topography, faces major urban challenges including inadequate mobility and poor air quality. This paper aims to investigate the magnitude of GHG emissions from conventional vehicles within Kathmandu Valley and analyze the counter-role of electric mobility in creating a more livable city. This study conducted a primary survey to estimate transport energy consumption and mobility characteristics for the base year 2022. The Low Emission Analysis Platform (LEAP) served as the modeling tool to forecast energy consumption and quantify associated GHG emissions in three scenarios: business-as-usual (BAU), sustainable development (SD), and net-zero emission (NZE). Additionally, this study estimated co-benefits, focusing on local pollutant reductions. With the present trend of increasing urbanization, motorization, and development, GHG emissions from the transportation sector are projected to more than triple by 2050 in the BAU scenario. Widespread adoption of electric mobility in the SD scenario would achieve up to a 95% reduction in GHG emissions by 2050. The NZE scenario foresees complete electrification and hydrogen-based vehicles by 2045, achieving complete abatement of both GHG emissions and local pollutants. The SD and NZE scenarios will require, respectively, 64% and 84% less energy than the BAU scenario, along with 74% and 100% reductions in petroleum consumption by 2050. These reductions contribute to enhanced energy security and energy sustainability. Achieving the SD and NZE scenarios will require approximately 1048 GWh and 1390 GWh of additional electricity solely for Kathmandu Valley by 2050. This paper is expected to provide valuable insights for policy implementors, transport planners, and city administrators to develop effective action plans and policies aimed at improving pollution levels and making cities in developing countries more livable and sustainable.
Stochastic Economic–Resilience Management of Combined Cooling, Heat, and Power-Based Microgrids in a Multi-Objective Approach
Authors: Azarinfar Hossein , Khosravi Mohsen , Sabzevari Kiomars , Dzikuć Maciej
Published: January 2024

The primary goal of a microgrid (MG) operator is to provide electricity to consumers while minimizing costs. For this aim, the operator must engage in the cost-effective management of its resource outputs, which can encompass electrical, thermal, or combined cooling, heat and power (CCHP) systems. Conversely, there has been a growing emphasis on enhancing the resilience of MGs in response to low-probability high-impact (LPHI) incidents in recent years. Therefore, MG-associated energy management strategies have to factor in resilience considerations. While resilience improvement activities increase the operational cost, they lead to a reduction in lost load, and subsequently, a decrease in the MG outage costs, making these activities economically viable. This paper focuses on MGs’ energy management with the primary goals of enhancing resilience, minimizing operational costs, and mitigating active power losses as well as environmental pollution. To attain this goal, various means like renewable resources (specifically photovoltaic (PV) and wind turbine (WT) systems), CCHP, and energy storage devices are integrated. Additionally, for reaching the solution, a genetic algorithm (GA) is implemented. MG operation considers the resilience concept, and according to the obtained results, it is observed that the cost of operation and environmental pollution, respectively, experience an increase about 6.31% and 2.8%. However, due to the reduction in outage costs by an average of 13.91% and power losses by 0.5%, the overall cost is diminished about 5.93%. This cost reduction is achieved through increased CCHP generation and a decreased outage duration during emergencies.
Optimization of Rebar Usage and Sustainability Based on Special-Length Priority: A Case Study of Mechanical Couplers in Diaphragm Walls
Authors: Widjaja Daniel Darma , Khant Lwun Poe , Kim Sunkuk , Kim Kil Yong
Published: January 2024

The construction industry generates significant CO2 emissions and reinforcing bars (rebar), which are a major contributor to this environmental impact. Extensive research has been conducted to address this particular issue. Recent research advances have introduced algorithms to reduce rebar waste and consumption, demonstrating the feasibility of achieving near-zero rebar cutting waste (N0RCW) through the consideration of special-length rebars. However, conventional lap splices, the most common rebar joint method, continue to consistently consume excessive quantities of rebar, despite extending beyond their mandated zones. Conversely, couplers can eliminate rebar lengths required for lapping splices, reducing the usage of rebar. Applying special-length rebars and couplers in heavily loaded structures like diaphragm walls can also significantly reduce rebar usage and cutting waste, consequently reducing CO2 emissions and the environmental and economic impacts. This research aims to optimize rebar consumption and sustainability in diaphragm wall structures by integrating mechanical couplers with a special-length rebar approach. A case study confirmed a substantial reduction in purchased rebar usage (17.95% and 5.38%), carbon emissions (15.24% and 2.25%), water footprint (17.95% and 5.38%), and environmental impact (95.18% and 30.27%) compared to the original design and recent diaphragm wall study, respectively. The broad implementation of the proposed method across various buildings and infrastructure projects could further multiply these benefits, enabling the achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations to foster sustainable construction.
Measurement of Work Progress Using a 3D Laser Scanner in a Structural Framework for Sustainable Construction Management
Authors: Kim Ju-Yong , Lee Donghoon , Kim Gwang-Hee
Published: January 2024

As interest in smart construction technology increases, various smart construction technologies are being used for sustainable construction management. Among these technologies, 3D laser scanning technology stands out for phenomena analysis and monitoring, with various applications being studied for construction management. This study aimed to identify structural members from point cloud data (PCD) obtained through 3D laser scanning and utilize them for the measurement of work progress in construction projects. The method for identifying members is to obtain location coordinate data from the BIM (Building Information Modeling) model of the project and identify the structural member in the PCD by comparing them with the member’s location coordinates from the PCD obtained with a 3D laser scanner. In this study, members such as columns, beams, girders, walls, and slabs among the structural members constructed at construction sites were identified through this process. For identified structural members completed at the actual construction site, the unit price and quantity were taken from the construction project’s bill of quantity (BOQ) database, and then the Earned Value (EV) was calculated. The results of the study suggest that the progress measurement process through BIM and 3D laser scanning, which was previously performed manually, can contribute to faster and more accurate work progress measurement. Ultimately, it is expected that efficient process management will be possible, contributing to the realization of sustainable construction management.
Ecology of Fear: Acclimation and Adaptations to Hunting by Humans
Authors: Potratz Emily J. , Holt Robert D. , Brown Joel S.
Published: January 2024

Humans greatly influence the ecosystems they live in and the lives of a wide range of taxa they share space with. Specifically, human hunting and harvesting has resulted in many species acclimating via diverse behavioral responses, often quite rapidly. This review provides insights into how hunting and harvesting can elicit behavioral changes. These responses emerge from a species’ previous and evolving ability to assess risk imposed by hunters and respond accordingly; a predator–prey game thus ensues, where both players may change tactics over time. If hunting is persistent, and does not result in the taxa’s extirpation, species are expected to develop adaptations to cope with hunting via natural selection by undergoing shifts in morphology and behavior. This review summarizes the various ways that human hunting intentionally and incidentally alters such evolutionary changes. These changes in turn can influence other species interactions and whole ecosystems. Additionally, alterations in behaviors can provide useful indicators for conservation and evolutionarily enlightened management strategies, and humans should use them to gain insights into our own socio-economic circumstances.
Operational Optimization of Regional Integrated Energy Systems with Heat Pumps and Hydrogen Renewable Energy under Integrated Demand Response
Authors: Duan Pengfei , Feng Mengdan , Zhao Bingxu , Xue Qingwen , Li Kang , Chen Jinglei
Published: January 2024

A regional integrated energy system (RIES), synergizing multiple energy forms, is pivotal for enhancing renewable energy use and mitigating the greenhouse effect. Considering that the equipment of the current regional comprehensive energy system is relatively simple, there is a coupling relationship linking power generation, refrigeration, and heating in the cogeneration system, which is complex and cannot directly meet various load demands. This article proposes a RIES optimization model for bottom-source heat pumps and hydrogen storage systems in the context of comprehensive demand response. First, P2G electric hydrogen production technology was introduced into RIES to give full play to the high efficiency advantages of hydrogen energy storage system, and the adjustable thermoelectric ratio of the HFC was considered. The HFC could adjust its own thermoelectric ratio according to the system load and unit output. Second, through the ground-source heat pump’s cleaning efficiency function, further separation and cooling could be achieved. The heat and electrical output of RIES improved the operating efficiency of the system. Thirdly, a comprehensive demand response model for heating, cooling, and electricity was established to enable users to reasonably adjust their own energy use strategies to promote the rational distribution of energy in the system. The model integrates power-to-gas (P2G) technology, leveraging the tunable thermoelectric ratio of a hydrogen fuel cell (HFC) to optimize the generation of electricity and heat while maximizing the efficiency of the hydrogen storage system. Empirical analysis substantiated the proposed RIES model’s effectiveness and economic benefits when integrating ground-source HP and electric hydrogen production with IDR. Compared with the original model, the daily operating cost of the proposed model was reduced by RMB 1884.16.
Actuarial Valuation and Hedging of Life Insurance Liabilities in the Presence of Stochastic Mortality Risk under the Locally Risk-Minimizing Hedging Approach
Authors: El Farissi Mohamed , Eddahbi Mhamed , Goumar Ali
Published: January 2024

The paper examines the valuation and hedging of life insurance obligations in the presence of mortality risk using the local risk-minimizing hedging approach. Roughly speaking, it is assumed that the lifetime of policyholders in an insurance portfolio is modeled by a point process whose stochastic intensity is controlled by a diffusion process. The stock price process is assumed to be a regime-switching Lévy process with non-zero regime-switching drift, where the parameters are assumed to depend on the economic states. Using the Föllmer–Schweizer decomposition, the main valuation and hedging results for a conditional payment process are determined. Some specific situations have been considered in which the local risk-minimizing strategies for a stream of liability payments or a unit-linked contract are presented.
Propagation Dynamics of an Epidemic Model with Heterogeneous Control Strategies on Complex Networks
Authors: Wang Yan , Chen Shanshan , Yu Dingguo , Liu Lixiang , Shang Ke-Ke
Published: January 2024

Complex network theory involves network structure and dynamics; dynamics on networks and interactions between networks; and dynamics developed over a network. As a typical application of complex networks, the dynamics of disease spreading and control strategies on networks have attracted widespread attention from researchers. We investigate the dynamics and optimal control for an epidemic model with demographics and heterogeneous asymmetric control strategies (immunization and quarantine) on complex networks. We derive the epidemic threshold and study the global stability of disease-free and endemic equilibria based on different methods. The results show that the disease-free equilibrium cannot undergo a Hopf bifurcation. We further study the optimal control strategy for the complex system and obtain its existence and uniqueness. Numerical simulations are conducted on scale-free networks to validate and supplement the theoretical results. The numerical results indicate that the asymmetric control strategies regarding time and degree of node for populations are superior to symmetric control strategies when considering control cost and the effectiveness of controlling infectious diseases. Meanwhile, the advantages of the optimal control strategy through comparisons with various baseline immunization and quarantine schemes are also shown.
Scheduling Optimization of Compound Operations in Autonomous Vehicle Storage and Retrieval System
Authors: Xu Lili , Lu Jiansha , Zhan Yan
Published: January 2024

The increasing demand for storing various types of goods has led to a raise in the need for storage capacity in warehousing systems. Autonomous vehicle storage and retrieval systems (AVS/RSs) offer high flexibility by allowing different configurations to meet different storage requirements. The system mainly completes operations through elevators and multiple rail-guided vehicles (RGVs). This paper focuses on the scheduling optimization of compound operations in the AVS/RS to improve system performance. Compound operations involve the coordinated execution of both single-command and double-command operations. A mathematical model with compound operations was proposed and effectively decomposed into a horizontal component for RGVs and a vertical counterpart for the elevator, which can represent the operations of one elevator cooperating with multiple RGVs. The goal of this model was to minimize the makespan for compound operations and to determine the optimal operation sequence and path for RGVs. An improved discrete particle swarm optimization (DPSO) algorithm called AGDPSO was proposed to solve the model. The algorithm combines DPSO and a genetic algorithm in an adaptive manner to prevent the algorithm from falling into local optima and relying solely on the initial solution. Through rigorous optimization, optimal parameters for the algorithm were identified. When assessing the performance of our improved algorithm against various counterparts, considering different task durations and racking configurations, our results showed that AGDPSO outperformed the alternatives, proving its effectiveness in enhancing system efficiency for the model. The findings of this study not only contribute to the optimization of AVS/RS but also offer valuable insights for designing more efficient warehouses. By streamlining scheduling, improving operations, and leveraging advanced optimization techniques, we can create a more robust and effective storage and retrieval system.
DENV-1 Titer Impacts Viral Blocking in wMel Aedes aegypti with Brazilian Genetic Background
Authors: Corrêa-Antônio Jessica , David Mariana R. , Couto-Lima Dinair , Garcia Gabriela Azambuja , Keirsebelik Milan S. G. , Maciel-de-Freitas Rafael , Pavan Márcio Galvão
Published: January 2024

Several countries have been using Wolbachia deployments to replace highly competent native Aedes aegypti populations with Wolbachia-carrying mosquitoes with lower susceptibility to arboviruses such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. In Rio de Janeiro, Wolbachia deployments started in 2015 and still present a moderate introgression with a modest reduction in dengue cases in humans (38%). Here, we evaluated the vector competence of wild-type and wMel-infected Ae. aegypti with a Brazilian genetic background to investigate whether virus leakage could contribute to the observed outcomes in Brazil. We collected the specimens in three areas of Rio de Janeiro with distinct frequencies of mosquitoes with wMel strain and two areas with wild Ae. aegypti. The mosquitoes were orally exposed to two titers of DENV-1 and the saliva of DENV-1-infected Ae. aegypti was microinjected into wMel-free mosquitoes to check their infectivity. When infected with the high DENV-1 titer, the presence of wMel did not avoid viral infection in mosquitoes’ bodies and saliva but DENV-1-infected wMel mosquitoes produced lower viral loads than wMel-free mosquitoes. On the other hand, wMel mosquitoes infected with the low DENV-1 titer were less susceptible to virus infection than wMel-free mosquitoes, although once infected, wMel and wMel-free mosquitoes exhibited similar viral loads in the body and the saliva. Our results showed viral leakage in 60% of the saliva of wMel mosquitoes with Brazilian background; thus, sustained surveillance is imperative to monitor the presence of other circulating DENV-1 strains capable of overcoming the Wolbachia blocking phenotype, enabling timely implementation of action plans.
Medicinal Plants against Viral Infections: A Review of Metabolomics Evidence for the Antiviral Properties and Potentials in Plant Sources
Authors: Adeosun Wilson Bamise , Loots Du Toit
Published: January 2024

Most plants have developed unique mechanisms to cope with harsh environmental conditions to compensate for their lack of mobility. A key part of their coping mechanisms is the synthesis of secondary metabolites. In addition to their role in plants’ defense against pathogens, they also possess therapeutic properties against diseases, and their use by humans predates written history. Viruses are a unique class of submicroscopic agents, incapable of independent existence outside a living host. Pathogenic viruses continue to pose a significant threat to global health, leading to innumerable fatalities on a yearly basis. The use of medicinal plants as a natural source of antiviral agents has been widely reported in literature in the past decades. Metabolomics is a powerful research tool for the identification of plant metabolites with antiviral potentials. It can be used to isolate compounds with antiviral capacities in plants and study the biosynthetic pathways involved in viral disease progression. This review discusses the use of medicinal plants as antiviral agents, with a special focus on the metabolomics evidence supporting their efficacy. Suggestions are made for the optimization of various metabolomics methods of characterizing the bioactive compounds in plants and subsequently understanding the mechanisms of their operation.
Mosquitoes from Europe Are Able to Transmit Snowshoe Hare Virus
Authors: Jansen Stephanie , Höller Patrick , Helms Michelle , Lange Unchana , Becker Norbert , Schmidt-Chanasit Jonas , Lühken Renke , Heitmann Anna
Published: January 2024

Snowshoe hare virus (SSHV) is a zoonotic arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) circulating in colder areas of the Northern Hemisphere. SSHV is maintained in an enzootic cycle between small mammals and mosquitoes, assumably of the genera Aedes and Culiseta. Symptoms of SSHV human infection can range from asymptomatic to severe neuroinvasive disease. Studies on SSHV transmission are limited, and there is no information available on whether mosquitoes of the genus Culex are able to transmit SSHV. Therefore, we investigated six mosquito species via salivation assay for their vector competence. We demonstrated that SSHV can be transmitted by the abundant European Culex species Cx. pipiens biotype pipiens, Cx. pipiens biotype molestus, and Cx. torrentium with low transmission efficiency between 3.33% and 6.67%. Additionally, the invasive species Ae. albopictus can also transmit SSHV with a low transmission efficiency of 3.33%. Our results suggest that local transmission of SSHV after introduction to Europe seems to be possible from a vector perspective.
Stabilization of the Metastable Pre-Fusion Conformation of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein through N-Linked Glycosylation of the S2 Subunit
Authors: Zan Fuwen , Zhou Yao , Chen Ting , Chen Yahan , Mu Zhixia , Qian Zhaohui , Ou Xiuyuan
Published: January 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the novel coronavirus responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, represents a serious threat to public health. The spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 mediates viral entry into host cells and is heavily glycosylated. In this study, we systemically analyzed the roles of 22 putative N-linked glycans in SARS-CoV-2 S protein expression, membrane fusion, viral entry, and stability. Using the α-glycosidase inhibitors castanospermine and NB-DNJ, we confirmed that disruption of N-linked glycosylation blocked the maturation of the S protein, leading to the impairment of S protein-mediated membrane fusion. Single-amino-acid substitution of each of the 22 N-linked glycosylation sites with glutamine revealed that 9 out of the 22 N-linked glycosylation sites were critical for S protein folding and maturation. Thus, substitution at these sites resulted in reduced S protein-mediated cell–cell fusion and viral entry. Notably, the N1074Q mutation markedly affected S protein stability and induced significant receptor-independent syncytium (RIS) formation in HEK293T/hACE2-KO cells. Additionally, the removal of the furin cleavage site partially compensated for the instability induced by the N1074Q mutation. Although the corresponding mutation in the SARS-CoV S protein (N1056Q) did not induce RIS in HEK293T cells, the N669Q and N1080Q mutants exhibited increased fusogenic activity and did induce syncytium formation in HEK293T cells. Therefore, N-glycans on the SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 S2 subunits are highly important for maintaining the pre-fusion state of the S protein. This study revealed the critical roles of N-glycans in S protein maturation and stability, information that has implications for the design of vaccines and antiviral strategies.