bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Tumor Antigens in Solid Tumors Turned into Vaccines by α-gal Micelle Immunotherapy
Authors: Galili Uri
Published: September 2024

A major reason for the failure of the immune system to detect tumor antigens (TAs) is the insufficient uptake, processing, and presentation of TAs by antigen-presenting cells (APCs). The immunogenicity of TAs in the individual patient can be markedly increased by the in situ targeting of tumor cells for robust uptake by APCs, without the need to identify and characterize the TAs. This is feasible by the intra-tumoral injection of α-gal micelles comprised of glycolipids presenting the carbohydrate-antigen “α-gal epitope” (Galα1-3Galβ1-4GlcNAc-R). Humans produce a natural antibody called “anti-Gal” (constituting ~1% of immunoglobulins), which binds to α-gal epitopes. Tumor-injected α-gal micelles spontaneously insert into tumor cell membranes, so that multiple α-gal epitopes are presented on tumor cells. Anti-Gal binding to these epitopes activates the complement system, resulting in the killing of tumor cells, and the recruitment of multiple APCs (dendritic cells and macrophages) into treated tumors by the chemotactic complement cleavage peptides C5a and C3a. In this process of converting the treated tumor into a personalized TA vaccine, the recruited APC phagocytose anti-Gal opsonized tumor cells and cell membranes, process the internalized TAs and transport them to regional lymph-nodes. TA peptides presented on APCs activate TA-specific T cells to proliferate and destroy the metastatic tumor cells presenting the TAs. Studies in anti-Gal-producing mice demonstrated the induction of effective protection against distant metastases of the highly tumorigenic B16 melanoma following injection of natural and synthetic α-gal micelles into primary tumors. This treatment was further found to synergize with checkpoint inhibitor therapy by the anti-PD1 antibody. Phase-1 clinical trials indicated that α-gal micelle immunotherapy is safe and can induce the infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells into untreated distant metastases. It is suggested that, in addition to converting treated metastases into an autologous TA vaccine, this treatment should be considered as a neoadjuvant therapy, administering α-gal micelles into primary tumors immediately following their detection. Such an immunotherapy will convert tumors into a personalized anti-TA vaccine for the period prior to their resection.
High-Throughput Drug Stability Assessment via Biomimetic Metalloporphyrin-Catalyzed Reactions Using Laser-Assisted Rapid Evaporative Ionization Mass Spectrometry (LA-REIMS)
Authors: Marton András , Mohácsi Zsombor , Decsi Balázs , Csillag Balázs , Balog Júlia , Schäffer Richard , Karancsi Tamás , Balogh György Tibor
Published: September 2024

Background: Building extensive drug candidate libraries as early in the development pipeline as possible, with high-throughput in vitro absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) profiling, is crucial for the selection of lead compounds to guide subsequent research and production phases. Traditionally, the analysis of metabolic stability assays heavily relies on high-throughput LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry) techniques to meet with the lead profiling demands. Laser-assisted rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (LA-REIMS) is a quick and efficient technique for characterizing complex biological samples without laborious sample preparation. Objective: In this study, using an automated LA-REIMS well plate reader, achieving an 8 s per sample measurement time, the oxidative metabolic stability of active drug agents was assessed using biomimetic metalloporphyrin-based oxidative model reactions. Results: The results obtained using the novel LA-REIMS-based protocol were compared to and corroborated by those obtained using conventional HPLC-UV-MS (high performance liquid chromatography with ultra-violet detection coupled with mass spectrometry) measurements. Conclusions: LA-REIMS emerges as a promising technique, demonstrating potential suitability for semi-quantitative high-throughput metabolic stability in an optimized solvent environment.
Azolla as a Safe Food: Suppression of Cyanotoxin-Related Genes and Cyanotoxin Production in Its Symbiont, Nostoc azollae
Authors: Bujak Jonathan P. , Pereira Ana L. , Azevedo Joana , Bujak Alexandra A. , Leshyk Victor , Pham Gia Minh , Stadtlander Timo , Vasconcelos Vitor , Winstead Daniel J.
Published: September 2024

The floating freshwater fern Azolla is the only plant that retains an endocyanobiont, Nostoc azollae (aka Anabaena azollae), during its sexual and asexual reproduction. The increased interest in Azolla as a potential source of food and its unique evolutionary history have raised questions about its cyanotoxin content and genome. Cyanotoxins are potent toxins synthesized by cyanobacteria which have an anti-herbivore effect but have also been linked to neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, liver and kidney failure, muscle paralysis, and other severe health issues. In this study, we investigated 48 accessions of Azolla–Nostoc symbiosis for the presence of genes coding microcystin, nodularin, cylindrospermopsin and saxitoxin, and BLAST analysis for anatoxin-a. We also investigated the presence of the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) in Azolla and N. azollae through LC-MS/MS. The PCR amplification of saxitoxin, cylindrospermospin, microcystin, and nodularin genes showed that Azolla and its cyanobiont N. azollae do not have the genes to synthesize these cyanotoxins. Additionally, the matching of the anatoxin-a gene to the sequenced N. azollae genome does not indicate the presence of the anatoxin-a gene. The LC-MS/MS analysis showed that BMAA and its isomers AEG and DAB are absent from Azolla and Nostoc azollae. Azolla therefore has the potential to safely feed millions of people due to its rapid growth while free-floating on shallow fresh water without the need for nitrogen fertilizers.
Identification of Genomic Regions Associated with Powdery Mildew Resistance in Watermelon through Genome-Wide Association Study
Authors: Lee Oak-Jin , Han Koeun , Lee Hye-Eun , Jeong Hyo-Bong , Yu Nari , Chae Wonbyoung
Published: September 2024

Watermelon (Citrullus spp.) is an economically important crop globally, but it is susceptible to various diseases, including powdery mildew. Previous studies have identified genetic factors associated with powdery mildew resistance. However, further research using diverse genetic approaches is necessary to elucidate the underlying genetic mechanisms of this resistance. In this study, the germplasm collection comprising highly homozygous inbred lines was employed, which enabled the accumulation of consistent data and improved the reliability of the genome-wide association study (GWAS) findings. Our investigation identified two significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), pm2.1 and pm3.1, which were strongly associated with disease resistance. Moreover, several candidate genes were revealed within the linkage disequilibrium (LD) blocks surrounding the significant SNPs. In conclusion, the identification of significant SNPs and their additive effects, combined with the discovery of relevant candidate genes, expanded our understanding of the genetic basis of disease resistance and can pave the way for the development of more resilient watermelon cultivars through marker-assisted selection.
Variation in Leaf Functional Traits of Populus laurifolia Ldb and Ulmus pumila L. Across Five Contrasting Urban Sites in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Authors: Byambasuren Otgonsaikhan , Bat-Amgalan Anujin , Byambadorj Ser-Oddamba , Hernandez Jonathan O. , Nyam-Osor Tuguldur , Nyam-Osor Batkhuu
Published: September 2024

Amid urbanization, studying leaf functional traits of woody plants in urban environments is essential for understanding how urban green spaces function and how they can be effectively managed sustainably. In this study, we investigated the effects of different growing conditions on the morpho-physiological traits of Populus laurifolia and Ulmus pumila across five contrasting urban sites. The leaf area (LA), leaf length (LL), leaf width (LW), leaf biomass (LB), specific leaf area (SLA), leaf chlorophyll concentration, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, leaf water potential at predawn (Ψpd) and midday (Ψmd), leaf performance index (PIabs), and phenotypic plasticity index (PPI) were compared across five contrasting urban sites. The soil chemical and physical properties were also compared between sites. There were significant differences in soil physicochemical characteristics between sites. We found significant effects of site on most of the morpho-physiological traits measured, except for Ψmd. The leaf chlorophyll concentration of P. laurifolia and U. pumila varied significantly between sites. The Ψpd was significantly different between years and sites. In U. pumila, the mean PPI for morphological traits (0.20) was lower than that for physiological traits (0.21). In conclusion, we revealed significant variations in the morpho-physiological traits of P. laurifolia and U. pumila across the five urban sites. Hence, long-term, large-scale studies are recommended to examine how diverse species respond to different urban growing conditions and to include other ecologically important plant traits for a better understanding of urban trees in a changing environment.
Preparations of Polyurethane Foam Composite (PUFC) Pads Containing Micro-/Nano-Crystalline Cellulose (MCC/NCC) toward the Chemical Mechanical Polishing Process
Authors: Huang Yi-Shen , Huang Yu-Wen , Luo Qiao-Wen , Lin Chao-Hsing , Srinophakun Penjit , Alapol Supanicha , Lin Kun-Yi Andrew , Huang Chih-Feng
Published: September 2024

Polyurethane foam (PUF) pads are widely used in semiconductor manufacturing, particularly for chemical mechanical polishing (CMP). This study prepares PUF composites with microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) to improve CMP performance. MCC and NCC were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), showing average diameters of 129.7 ± 30.9 nm for MCC and 22.2 ± 6.7 nm for NCC, both with high crystallinity (ca. 89%). Prior to preparing composites, the study on the influence of the postbaked step on the PUF was monitored through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). After that, PUF was incorporated with MCC/NCC to afford two catalogs of polyurethane foam composites (i.e., PUFC-M and PUFC-N). These PUFCs were examined for their thermal and surface properties using a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA), and water contact angle (WCA) measurements. Tgs showed only slight changes but a notable increase in the 10% weight loss temperature (Td10%) for PUFCs, rising from 277 °C for PUF to about 298 °C for PUFCs. The value of Tan δ dropped by up to 11%, indicating improved elasticity. Afterward, tensile and abrasion tests were conducted, and we acquired significant enhancements in the abrasion performance (e.g., from 1.04 mm/h for the PUF to 0.76 mm/h for a PUFC-N) of the PUFCs. Eventually, we prepared high-performance PUFCs and demonstrated their capability toward the practical CMP process.
Supply Chain Sustainability in Outer Space: Lessons to Be Learnt from Remote Sites on Earth
Authors: Varon Hoyos Manuel , Hessel Volker , Salas Eduardo , Culton John , Robertson Karen , Laybourn Andrea , Escribà-Gelonch Marc , Cook Nigel , de Zwart Melissa
Published: September 2024

Space exploration, with its enormous distances and extreme environments, is a challenge to technology, human habitation, sustainability, and supply chains. On the flip-side, however, it can provide a new vantage point on how to improve human life and planetary prosperity. This objective requires the development of economic and sustainable supply chains and a governance framework to guarantee fundamental human needs and well-being under the limitations of distant and inhospitable environments. This review describes learnings for human habitation in space from remote communities on Earth that have developed and survived over generations. These include a long history of human survival strategies on Tristan da Cunha, Pitcairn Islands, Nauru, and Easter Island. Their supply chain management solutions and their problems can guide the implementation of logistics systems for the efficient use of resources in space, to satisfy vital needs of human survival but also to ensure social and governance in space, e.g., build-up of thriving communities, mobility, and industrial activities. This review demonstrates that there are significant gaps in recent space supply chain studies with respect to the space environment, social and governance. Analysis of established practices and concepts from remote regions on Earth can readily respond to these deficiencies and thus supplement space exploration. This review recommends extending the assessment of supply-chain assets from the near future to long-term strategic. This implies going far beyond current space supply chain reports to include aspects of social responsibility and governance, such as sustainable health systems, product quality management, and local decision-making.
Flow Profiling Analysis of a Refractured Tight Oil Well Using Distributed Temperature Sensing
Authors: Yan Changhao , Ren Jiawei , Shi Qiong , Li Xiangping , Bai Yuen , Yu Wei
Published: September 2024

This study presents an in-depth analysis of a refractured tight oil well, focusing on both the initial and subsequent refracturing operations. After refracturing, daily oil production surged from 0.8 to 15.0 tons. The well sustained natural flow for 100 days before transitioning to pump-assisted production, resulting in an additional cumulative oil production of 1412 tons. Leveraging distributed temperature sensing (DTS), high-resolution temperature monitoring was performed, revealing key insights into the behavior of both newly created and existing fractures. Older perforation stages outperformed newer ones, with average daily oil production of 4.66 m3 for older stages and 3.49 m3 for newer stages under a 2 mm choke size. Moreover, CO2 pre-fracturing significantly enhanced oil production, with the stages receiving CO2 injection achieving a median daily oil output of 4.04 m3, compared to 3.55 m3 for non-CO2 stages. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of integrating advanced monitoring techniques and innovative fracturing methods to optimize refracturing strategies, ultimately enhancing hydrocarbon recovery in tight oil reservoirs.
Three Shanghai General Meetings and Catholic Publishing in the First Half of the Twentieth Century
Authors: Pan Zhiyuan
Published: September 2024

The Catholic publishing undertaking in China experienced significant growth in the first half of the twentieth century, both in the scale and in the form of organization. This effort’s importance is twofold: for the Church in China back then, publications facilitated communications both inside and outside the Church; for researchers today, these files contain a vast amount of information on Catholic life, valuable for the enrichment of historical understanding. This paper uncovers the internal driving mechanism of this process through three Shanghai general meetings: the Plenary Council in 1924, the All-China General Congress of Catholic Action in 1935 and the Catholic Press Convention in 1947. The co-ordination fostered by these meetings generated resilience and efficiency for publishing activities allowing them to be sustained and to prosper during an unsettling period. The Council heralded cross-congregational and cross-national co-operation by standardizing publishing practices and forming designated central organizations. Inheriting these guidelines, Catholic journalist delegates of the Catholic Action Congress in 1935 gathered to discuss practical methods, leading to a proliferation of Catholic publications. Despite setbacks during the Sino-Japanese War, Catholic publishing quickly resumed following the Press Convention held in 1947, which reinforced collaboration regardless of affiliations through a central organization. The three general meetings not only showcase the historical trajectory of Catholic publishing, but also the constant endeavor to bridge gaps between communities.
Impact of October 7 Attack and 2024 War in Gaza on Catholic–Jewish Relations
Authors: Dziaczkowska Magdalena
Published: September 2024

The 2023/2024 war in Gaza is testing Catholic–Jewish relations. It uncovers three layers of tension in the Church’s relationship with the Jewish people and the State of Israel: First, the differences in the Catholic historical interpretation of the Hamas attack and the war in Gaza in respect to the Jewish one. Second, a theological tension between Catholic teachings on Jews and Judaism and the concept of universal fraternity—how unique is the relationship with the Jewish people compared to all of humanity? Third, a tension between supporting Christians in the Holy Land and their political aspirations and maintaining positive relations with the State of Israel while avoiding a theological stance on Zionism. These tensions lead to intra-Catholic and ecumenical challenges in the theology of Jews, Judaism, and the Land of Israel, particularly in discussions on antisemitism, anti-Judaism, universal fraternity, and violence. This study relies on analyzing relevant press articles and statements from Catholic hierarchs and Jewish leaders, contextualizing them with recent developments in the Catholic theology of war and violence.
Prescribed Time Interception of Moving Objects’ Trajectories Using Robot Manipulators
Authors: Flores-Campos Juan Alejandro , Torres-San-Miguel Christopher René , Paredes-Rojas Juan Carlos , Perrusquía Adolfo
Published: September 2024

Trajectory interception is a critical synchronization element in the transportation and manufacturing sectors using robotic platforms. This is usually performed by matching the position and velocity of a target object with the position and velocity of the robot interceptor. However, the synchronization task is exasperated by (i) the proper gain tuning of the controller, (ii) the dynamic response of the robotic platform, (iii) the velocity constraints in the actuators, and (iv) the trajectory profile exhibited by the moving object. This means that the interception time is not controlled, which is critical for energy optimization, resources, and production. This paper proposes a prescribed time trajectory interception algorithm for robot manipulators. The approach uses the finite-time convergence properties of sliding mode control combined with a terminal attractor based on a time base generator. The combined approach guarantees trajectory interception in a prescribed time with robust properties. Simulation studies are conducted using the first three degrees of freedom (DOFs) of a RV-M1 robot under single- and multi-object interception tasks. The results verify the effectiveness of the proposed methodology under different hyperparameter configurations.
“Is There Something Wrong with What I Asked”? Digital Strategies for Achieving and Safeguarding Social Capital and Identity in a Facebook Support Group for Israeli Parents
Authors: Ben-Shlomo Shirley , Rosenblat-Gadish Dikla , Levin-Keini Noga
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to investigate how a Facebook support group for parents of young children (ages 0–6) defines its boundaries and evaluates the acceptability of its members and content to safeguard the group’s social capital and identity. Adopting a qualitative critical content analysis approach, this research examined the discourse within the Sane and Rational (S&R) Parents group. This group, which had more than 12,000 members, describes itself as an alternative to groups that address parenting problems through “homeopathy, talismans, energies, and communicating with past incarnations”. Common subjects addressed by the group included medical issues, sleeping problems, potty training, child behavior, and nutrition. For the purpose of this study, a representative sample of 10 discourses (out of 118) that appeared during the research period was selected. The analysis considered group discourse, including both verbal and non-verbal elements such as emojis. Three central themes were revealed: (1) exclusion of participants through rules and emojis; (2) filtering posts as a mechanism for defining in-group and out-group boundaries; and (3) division of roles as a tool for distinguishing between those who do and do not belong. This study identifies power-based digital strategies used by a Facebook parent group to maintain its social capital and identity. It also highlights how verbal and non-verbal communication shapes, and is shaped by, group relationships. Practically, the findings offer tools for professionals to better understand how parental support needs are met in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of face-to-face interventions for those who feel excluded from dominant social identities.
Child Labour Challenges and Security Implications in Selected Local Government Areas in Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Adewumi Samson , Bwowe Patrick
Published: September 2024

The increasing presence of young people on the Nigerian streets participating in child labour has continued to attract public policy attention. Available research on child labour reveals sparse scholarly information on the security implications for young people in South-West Nigeria, particularly Ondo State. The study aims to understand the argument that child labour poses major security threats to the overall well-being of child labourers. A total of 147 questionnaires were distributed, with 12 focus group discussions and 12 semi-structured interviews conducted with young people and guardians (mostly mothers). Frequency distributions were employed to analyse the quantitative data, and NVivo (v.14) qualitative software was used to identify themes and sub-themes. A content analytical tool was used to make sense of the themes. Child labour activities include street trading, hawking, domestic help and construction work. Causes of child labour activities include lack of access to basic education, cultural and societal beliefs, poverty, and family breakdown, among others. Security threats include occasional kidnapping for ransom, sexual molestation, slavery, exploitation, risk of injury, diseases, and death. The study suggests a more responsive Child’s Rights Act in Nigeria for the protection of the rights and dignity of every child.
The Impact of Climate Variability on the Blooming of Fraxinus ornus ‘Globosa’ as a Component of Novi Sad’s (Serbia) Green Infrastructure
Authors: Čukanović Jelena , Ljubojević Mirjana , Djordjević Sara , Narandžić Tijana , Petrov Djurdja , Ocokoljić Mirjana
Published: September 2024

Climate change increasingly impacts urban dendroflora, affecting plant physiology and phenological phases. This paper investigates the impact of changing climatic conditions on the blooming of Fraxinus ornus ‘Globosa’, a decorative form of ash that is a significant component of green infrastructure in Novi Sad, Serbia. The research, conducted over 15 years on 42 individuals in a linear planting near a large river, analyzed temperature and precipitation effects on blooming times and inflorescence characteristics The results indicate changes in the timing of blooming, earlier than recorded in the literature, suggesting that temperature variations and changes in climatic conditions have significantly influenced the phenological phases of the selected clones of globe flowering ash. Additionally, the studied individuals showed exceptional adaptation to climate change and are not considered vulnerable. This study confirmed that this cultivar of flowering ash in urban environments is a key link in the green infrastructure of cities, functioning as green corridors along river flows as a nature-based solution. The studied cultivar is an important element of cultural heritage, contributing to the recreational potential of the linear composition of the promenade, especially during the flowering phenophase, when, in addition to its aesthetic values, it has psychological effects on users of the space, offering a calming influence due to its regular canopy and planting rhythm. Additionally, this cultivar provides important ecological functions, such as offering pollen for pollinators, thereby significantly contributing to the implementation of ecosystem services.
Research Trends in Sports Volunteering: A Focus on Polish Contributions to Global Knowledge
Authors: Rozmiarek Mateusz
Published: September 2024

Recent years have witnessed a growing academic interest in sports volunteering, recognizing its critical role in the effective organization and sustainability of sporting events. This study aims to systematically review the scope and outcomes of research conducted by Polish scholars on sports volunteering, accessible to an international audience. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used to structure the assessment. The analysis covers studies published between 2014 and 2022, evaluating their contributions to the understanding of volunteer motivation, event management, and the integration of sustainability practices within the context of sports events. The findings not only provide insights into the current state of research on sports volunteering in Poland but also highlight potential future research directions, particularly concerning the sustainability of volunteer engagement in sports event management.
Correction: Al-Jabir, M.; Isaifan, R.J. Long-Term Projection of Transport-Related Social Cost of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Qatar. Sustainability 2024, 16, 536
Authors: Al-Jabir Maryam , Isaifan Rima J.
Published: September 2024

The authors would like to make the following corrections about the published paper [...]
Working Conditions in the Hospitality Industry: The Case for a Fair and Decent Work Agenda
Authors: Giousmpasoglou Charalampos
Published: September 2024

This critical review presents a comprehensive examination of the prevailing working conditions within the global hospitality industry. It highlights pervasive issues such as inequitable pay structures, widespread underemployment, skills underutilisation, heightened work pressures, income instability, and constrained social mobility. These adverse conditions not only have significant societal ramifications but also exert detrimental effects on employee well-being and mental health, leading to a dearth of talent retention and recruitment challenges. Against this backdrop, the study advocates for the adoption of a Fair and Decent Work Agenda (FDWA) as a pivotal strategy to improve the lives of hospitality workers. Despite governmental efforts, such as the implementation of the FDWA on the global, regional and country level, meaningful change remains elusive. To address this gap, a comprehensive and targeted set of actions for successful FDWA implementation is proposed. Furthermore, the paper offers valuable insights for industry practitioners, policymakers, and researchers alike, aiming to trigger concerted action towards realising equitable and dignified working conditions within the hospitality sector. By embracing the principles of fairness and decency, stakeholders can foster a more sustainable and inclusive industry ecosystem, ultimately improving the lives of hospitality workers while fortifying the sector’s resilience and competitiveness in the global marketplace.
Towards a Low-Carbon Target: How the High-Speed Rail and Its Expansion Affects Industrial Concentration and Macroeconomic Conditions: Evidence from Chinese Urban Agglomerations
Authors: Yang Minhua , Yao Rui , Ma Linkun , Yang Ang
Published: September 2024

High-speed rail is a high-standard railway system, which allows trains to operate at high speed. The railway play a crucial role in connecting urban agglomerations, which represents the highest form of spatial organization in the mature stage of urban development, bringing together cities of various natures, types, and scales in specific regions. This paper explores the impacts of high-speed rail and its expansion on industrial concentration and macroeconomic conditions in the period of 2000 to 2019. We use a well-known transportation policy as a natural experiment, utilizing geographic distance data to study the effects of high-speed rail and its expansion on industrial concentration and macroeconomic conditions in urban agglomerations. The results show that high-speed rail increases industrial concentration but leads to a reduction in macroeconomic conditions. Unlike previous studies in this field, we use distance variables to analyze how the expansion of high-speed rail affects macroeconomic conditions and industrial concentration through location advantages. The impacts of high-speed rails vary across urban and non-urban agglomeration cities, resource-based and non-resource-based cities, large and small cities, and eastern, central, and western regions. Our results are robust to the shocks from the global financial crisis, time lags, different distance dummy variables, dependent variables, and endogeneity issues. This study regards the opening up of high-speed rail as both improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions through substituting for urban and aviation transport. Compared to traditional transport methods such as urban and air travel, the efficiency and environmental benefits of high-speed rail make it an important method for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, the expansion of high-speed rail could support both economic development and environmental concerns, and it is playing a crucial role in transportation selection for advancing low-carbon economic goals.
Meaningful Gamification in Ecotourism: A Study on Fostering Awareness for Positive Ecotourism Behavior
Authors: Rosmadi Amalia , Zhou Wuzhong , Xu Yuanyuan
Published: September 2024

Research into ecotourism behavior in China through meaningful gamification offers a promising strategy for enhancing sustainable tourism practices. With the rapid growth of China’s ecotourism sector, understanding and influencing visitor behaviors is crucial. This study focuses on meaningful gamification elements—exposition, information, engagement, and reflection—as a technique to nurture positive intentions towards ecotourism behavior, increase environmental awareness, educate tourists, and promote sustainable practices in an interactive way. Aligning with China’s technological and sustainability goals, this research introduces the Meaningful Gamification Elements for Ecotourism Behavior (mGEECO) model. This model is analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM)–Partial Least Squares (PLS) to test hypotheses related to the relationship between gamification elements and ecotourism intentions, grounded in Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) theory. The findings show that meaningful gamification significantly enhances positive intentions towards ecotourism by improving Environmental Attitude, Awareness of Consequences, and Ascription of Responsibilities. In conclusion, this approach raises awareness of sustainability practices and fosters a sense of responsibility, potentially leading to a more balanced and responsible ecotourism industry in China, benefiting both the environment and local communities while enhancing visitor experiences.
Comparison of Different Power Generation Mixes for High Penetration of Renewables
Authors: Brumana Giovanni , Ghirardi Elisa , Franchini Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

Growing environmental concerns have driven the installation of renewable systems. Meanwhile, the continuous decline in the levelized cost of energy (LCOE), alongside the decreasing cost of photovoltaics (PVs), is compelling the power sector to accurately forecast the performance of energy plants to maximize plant profitability. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis and optimization of a hybrid power generation system for a remote community in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a 10 MW peak power demand. The goal is to achieve 90 percent of annual load coverage from renewable energy. This study introduces a novel comparison between three different configurations: (i) concentrated solar power (parabolic troughs + thermal energy storage + steam Rankine cycle); (ii) fully electric (PVs + wind + batteries); and (iii) an energy mix that combines both solutions. The research demonstrates that the hybrid mix achieves the lowest levelized cost of energy (LCOE) at 0.1364 USD/kWh through the use of advanced transient simulation and load-following control strategies. The single-technology solutions were found to be oversized, resulting in higher costs and overproduction. This paper also explores a reduction in the economic scenario and provides insights into cost-effective renewable systems for isolated communities. The new minimum cost of 0.1153 USD/kWh underscores the importance of integrating CSP and PV technologies to meet the very stringent conditions of high renewable penetration and improved grid stability.
Corporate Governance Characteristics and Environmental Sustainability Affect the Business Performance among Listed Saudi Company
Authors: Alnor Nasareldeen Hamed Ahmed
Published: September 2024

This study examines how committees’ characteristics affect business performance (BuPE) in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, this study investigates the connection between BuPE and Environmental Sustainability (ESG), as determined by Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Design/methodology/approach: Econometric methods, such as feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) regression, and random effects, ordinary least squares (OLS), are applied to investigate the connection between the independent and dependent variables, utilizing a sample of 131 Saudi listed firms spanning from 2015 to 2021. Findings: Regression analysis shows that the size and independence of audit committees have a positive impact on BuPE, while audit committee meetings are negatively linked to BuPE. The outcomes also indicate that audit committee commitment was not affected by BuPE. Moreover, ESG has a positive and significant relationship with BuPE. On the same path, the results of the additional analysis confirm the main results. Practical implications: The findings of this study may serve as a valuable basis for regulatory actions, particularly with respect to audit committees and CSR. These findings have far-reaching implications for regulators and investors, as they offer valuable insights into the effects of CSR and audit committee features on BuPE. Originality/value: The current research demonstrates that audit committees and CSR have distinct implications for firms’ BuPE, as evidenced by empirical data. The findings suggest that policymakers and researchers should not view CSR as a homogenous concept, as it has varying effects on firms’ BuPE.
Cybersecurity Risks Analysis in the Hospitality Industry: A Stakeholder Perspective on Sustainable Service Systems
Authors: Karadayi-Usta Saliha
Published: September 2024

The digital transformation age introduces cybersecurity threats into the hospitality industry by increasing the exposure and vulnerability of hospitality firms’ data and systems to hackers. The hospitality industry is a diverse segment of the service sector dedicated to the provision of services in areas such as accommodation, food and beverage, travel and tourism, and recreation, including hotels, restaurants, bars, travel agencies, and theme parks. Cybersecurity risks in the hospitality industry affect the data and systems of businesses such as accommodation, food, travel, and entertainment, primarily enabled by the industry’s increasing digitization. This study aims to map the principal cybersecurity risks to the main stakeholders by proposing a novel Picture Fuzzy Sets (PFSs)-based Matrix of Alliances and Conflicts: Tactics, Objectives, and Recommendations (MACTOR) approach. The purpose here is to examine each stakeholder’s position towards handling cybersecurity attacks and estimate the uncertain nature of personal judgments of industry representatives when stating their point of view. The research aimed to extract the triggering positions of the defined cybercrime risks to reach the root cause of these risks, as the point to try to mitigate first. Thus, this paper contributes to the literature in both theoretical and practical ways by proposing a new approach and by providing real industry officials’ perspectives to solve the challenges. A hospitality practitioner can easily understand their position in this service network and take action to prevent such cybercrimes.
Cloning of Three Aflatoxin B1 Oxidases of the Dipeptidyl Peptidase III Family and Evaluation of Their Potential for Practical Applications as Decontamination Enzymes
Authors: Sinelnikov Igor , Zorov Ivan , Denisenko Yury , Demidova Kristina , Rozhkova Alexandra , Shcherbakova Larisa
Published: September 2024

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) produced by some Aspergillus species belongs to the most dangerous contaminants of animal feeds. Development of safe and cost efficient decontamination methods saving feed quality and nutritional value are of paramount importance. The use of recombinant AFB1-detoxifying microbial enzymes represents a promising biotechnological approach meeting the aforementioned requirements. In this study, three AFB1-degrading oxidases (AFOs) from edible basidiomycetes Cantharellus cibarius, Lentinula edodes and Pleurotus eryngii as well as AFO from Armillaria tabescens were expressed in E. coli Rosetta (DE3) and purified by immobilized metal-chelate chromatography. The stabilizing effect of the addition of glycerol and β-mercaptoethanol during protein extraction is shown. The catalytic constants of the recombinant AFOs (rAFOs) and other characteristics, which might be important for their practical application (and optimal temperature and pH, thermolability, regulation of the activity by metal ions and chelating agents, storage stability) were investigated. Among the obtained enzymes, rAFO from P. eryngii (Pe-AFO), which was characterized by the highest specific activity, thermostability and pH stability (especially at acidic pH range), the lowest Km, and relative resistance to the inhibition by phytate, showed the best AFB1-degrading efficacy. However, Pe-AFO and all other rAFOs significantly decreased the target activity during heating above 45 °C, storage frozen or lyophilization.
The Effects of Water Footprint Management on Companies’ Reputations and Legitimacy under the Influence of Corporate Social Responsibility and Government Support: Contributions to the Chilean Agri-Food Industry
Authors: Barbosa Marcelo Werneck , Pumpín María de los Ángeles Raimann
Published: September 2024

Water management initiatives are implemented under a concept called water footprint management (WF management). Different initiatives and pressures might have a positive influence on the implementation of WF management, such as the adoption of corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices, government support and coercive pressures. This study assessed the effects that CSR practices, government support, and coercive pressures have on the implementation of WF management initiatives. This study also evaluated the effects that the adoption of WF management has on firms’ reputations and legitimacy. A quantitative methodology was employed, in which a survey of 113 Chilean firms in the agri-food industry was carried out. Data were analyzed with the Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modelling method, which determines causal relationships between constructs. We found that CSR and government support exert a direct, positive, and significant influence on WF management. Also, WF management was found to have a direct, positive, and significant effect on firms’ reputations and legitimacy. CSR has a greater influence on WF management compared to government support, which shows that CSR initiatives are of paramount importance, surpassing the support provided by governments for the implementation of WF management practices. Considerable indirect effects of CSR on reputation and legitimacy were also observed. This study’s findings imply a crucial role for governments in prioritizing coercive pressures. In addition, it is imperative that agri-food firms foster their CSR programs to improve the implementation of WF practices, as the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated.
Water Resources’ AI–ML Data Uncertainty Risk and Mitigation Using Data Assimilation
Authors: Martin Nick , White Jeremy
Published: September 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), learns by training and is restricted by the amount and quality of training data. Training involves a tradeoff between prediction bias and variance controlled by model complexity. Increased model complexity decreases prediction bias, increases variance, and increases overfitting possibilities. Overfitting is a significantly smaller training prediction error relative to the trained model prediction error for an independent validation set. Uncertain data generate risks for AI–ML because they increase overfitting and limit generalization ability. Specious confidence in predictions from overfit models with limited generalization ability, leading to misguided water resource management, is the uncertainty-related negative consequence. Improved data is the way to improve AI–ML models. With uncertain water resource data sets, like stream discharge, there is no quick way to generate improved data. Data assimilation (DA) provides mitigation for uncertainty risks, describes data- and model-related uncertainty, and propagates uncertainty to results using observation error models. A DA-derived mitigation example is provided using a common-sense baseline, derived from an observation error model, for the confirmation of generalization ability and a threshold identifying overfitting. AI–ML models can also be incorporated into DA to provide additional observations for assimilation or as a forward model for prediction and inverse-style calibration or training. The mitigation of uncertain data risks using DA involves a modified bias–variance tradeoff that focuses on increasing solution variability at the expense of increased model bias. Increased variability portrays data and model uncertainty. Uncertainty propagation produces an ensemble of models and a range of predictions.
Flow Characteristics in Open Channels with Non-Submerged Rigid Vegetation Landscape
Authors: Wang Wenjun , Long Aihua , Lai Xiaoying , Zhang Jingzhou , Xu Tongxuan
Published: September 2024

The commercial CFD package Fluent and the Reynolds stress model were used to simulate the hydraulic characteristics with three types of vegetation distribution: longitudinal, interlaced and patch. Each type was aggregated to the middle line l of the water flow in an equal proportion of 0.5, resulting in a total of nine landscape vegetation arrangements. The numerical model was verified and showed a high level of consistency with the experimental comparison; the results indicate the following: (1) As the distribution of landscape vegetation on both sides becomes increasingly concentrated from a loose state to the middle line l of the flow, the flow velocity declines and the maximum Reynolds stress rises, and the greater the Reynolds stress, the more powerful the shear layer, contributing to turbulence, generating mass and momentum exchange and enhancing the vertical transport of momentum. (2) Compared with the gap area, the flow velocity in the vegetation area is smaller, the turbulent kinetic energy is larger and the maximum Reynolds stress of the bottom flow is larger; the larger sediment particles tend to deposit in the gap area, while smaller sediments tend to deposit in the vegetation area. At the same time, the vegetation area is more prone to deposits than the gap area. (3) Under the same vegetation density, whether in the test area or the wake area, the water blocking capacity and the deposition capacity are in the following order: patch distribution pattern > interlaced distribution pattern > longitudinal distribution pattern.
Education in the field of tourism
Authors:   Patrice Lumumba Russian People’s Friendship University, Moscow, Grover K.
Published: September 2024

The goal of any company is to extend its existence on the market as long as possible and preferably not to lose, but rather to strengthen its positions. To do this, it is necessary to adapt to the external environment and take certain actions related to the development of the company. It is necessary to constantly monitor and analyze the situation on the market, in the behavior of competitors, your target audience. The success or failure of the company depends on the personnel and their possession of competencies. Tourism is an area that requires constant improvement and learning. This article reveals the features of training in the field of tourism.
Computerization of pharmaceutical production
Authors:   FSBEI HE Amur State Medical Academy of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Blagoveshchensk, Vesnap O.S. , Koshechkin K.A. ,   FSAEI HE I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow
Published: September 2024

The computerization of pharmaceutical production is crucial to enhance the efficiency, quality, and safety of products. This article analyzes the impact of computerization at various stages of pharmaceutical production, examines the relevant technologies, and discusses the advantages and problems associated with the introduction of computerized systems. The adoption of information and communication technologies has improved the efficiency of pharmaceutical companies in production and interaction with suppliers and customers. By means of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), the quality of pharmaceutical production has boosted.
Education as a factor of technological sovereignty and national security of the state
Authors:   Academy of Military Sciences of the Russian Federation, professor of the Higher School of Management, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Dadalko V.A. , Dadalko S. V.
Published: September 2024

The article presents rational proposals for improving education and forming the technological sovereignty of the country. The reasons for and features of the infl uence of the quality of education on the formation of national security and the identifi cation of directions for increasing the scientifi c and educational potential of the country are outlined. A number of conclusions that indicate the priority place of the education sector in ensuring the technological sovereignty and national security of the Russian Federation in the conditions of innovative development and digital transformation have been drawn.
Existential thoughts of the author. Comprehending death in history and modern times
Authors:   Sector of Interdisciplinary Problems of Scientific and Technological Development, Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences, Rozin Vadim Markovich
Published: September 2024

Comprehending death, if one looks at it from the perspective of human history, is a relatively new phenomenon, let us say, of recent centuries. Although the problem itself – the fear of death and the search for overcoming it — arose in the culture of the “ancient civilizations” (Ancient Egypt, Sumer, India, China, the kingdom of the Nahuas (Aztec empire), etc.). In the previous very fi rst, “archaic culture,” people were not very afraid of death, because they believed in souls and spirits (it is not for nothing that this culture is also called “animistic”); here death was understood as the irrevocable departure of the soul from the body and eternal life in the land of the dead, where hunting and everything else were the same as when living in their native tribe, or even better. The modern era gave rise to a new perception of life and death, comprehended by an atheistic and rational mind. The article shows the understanding of existential phenomena in the history of culture.