bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ergogenic Effect of Nitrate Supplementation in Clinical Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Derella Cassandra C. , Anderson Kara C. , Woessner Mary N. , Paterson Craig , Allen Jason D.
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Inorganic nitrate (NO3−) supplementation, via its conversion to nitric oxide (NO), has been purported to be ergogenic in healthy individuals. Many disease states are characterized by reduced NO bioavailability and are expected to derive a benefit from NO3−. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the current literature on the ergogenic effect of NO3− supplementation in individuals with cardiopulmonary and metabolic diseases (CPMD). Methods: Relevant databases were searched up to December 2023 for randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trials for aerobic exercise outcome variables with CPMD. Results: Twenty-two studies were included, and 46% reported ergogenic benefits of inorganic nitrate supplementation. NO3− supplementation had no effect on aerobic performance with respect to maximal (SMD = 0.11, 95% CI: −0.12 to 0.34, p = 0.34) and submaximal (SMD = 0.16, 95% CI: −0.13 to 0.46, p = 0.27) TTE, VO2peak (SMD = 0.002, 95% CI: −0.37 to 0.38, p = 0.99), or 6MW (SMD = 0.01, 95% CI: −0.29 to 0.28, p = 0.96). When the studies were limited to only cardiovascular disease conditions, NO3− supplementation had trivial effects on aerobic performance with respect to Timed Trials (SMD = 0.14, 95% CI: −0.04 to 0.33, p = 0.13), VO2 (SMD = −0.02, 95% CI: −0.32 to 0.27, p = 0.87), and small effects on Distance Trials (SMD = 0.25, 95% CI: −0.18 to 0.69, p = 0.25). Sunset funnel plots revealed low statistical power in all trials. Conclusions: The results of this systematic review revealed that 46% of the individual studies showed a positive benefit from inorganic nitrate supplementation. However, the meta-analysis revealed a trivial effect on physical function in CPMD populations. This is likely due to the large heterogeneity and small sample sizes in the current literature.
Percutaneous Ultrasound-Guided Renal Biopsy in Greek Children: 15 Years of Experience at a Single Center
Authors: Dotis John , Kondou Antonia , Karava Vasiliki , Siolos Pavlos , Georgopoulou Vivian , Liapis George , Stamou Maria , Papachristou Fotios , Printza Nikoleta
Published: November 2024

Background: Percutaneous ultrasound-guided renal biopsy (PRB) is a key element for diagnosis and management of several renal pathologies. We aimed to lay out the experience of our pediatric nephrology unit performing PRBs. The rationale and findings of these biopsies, safety issues and considerations of the extracted data are going to be analyzed. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted from 2008 to 2023 based on the review of the medical records of pediatric patients who underwent PRBs. In total, 216 kidney biopsies in 206 patients were performed: 115 (53.2%) during the 2008–2015 period and 101 (46.8%) during the 2016–2023 period. Results: The most frequent clinical indication for PRBs was nephritic syndrome followed by nephrotic syndrome, observed in 84 (40.8%) and 72 (34.9%) patients, respectively. The predominant diagnosis was minimal change disease (MCD) (23.3%), followed by focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) (15%) equal to lupus nephritis (LN) (15%), and immunoglobulin A nepropathy (10.2%). Minor complications, such as subcapsular hematomas were observed in approximately 15% of patients while no therapeutic intervention was needed. Conclusions: This report is the first review of pathohistological data covering a pediatric population over a 15-year period in Greece and one of the largest in southeastern Europe, especially in the Balkan region. The main indication for a PRB was nephritic syndrome; however, MCD was the main histological diagnosis. This study emphasis the fact that PRBs constitute a safe and reliable method of diagnostic approach to kidney diseases in childhood and offers important information on therapeutic approaches as well as the prognosis of these patients.
Kinin B1- and B2-Receptor Subtypes Contract Isolated Bovine Ciliary Muscle: Their Role in Ocular Lens Function and Intraocular Pressure Reduction
Authors: Sharif Najam , Kulkarni-Chitnis Madura , Okolie Anthonia , Njie-Mbye Ya , Ohia Sunny
Published: November 2024

Background: Bradykinin is an endogenously produced nonapeptide with many physiological and pathological functions that are mediated by two pharmacologically defined receptor subtypes, B1- and B2-receptors. Current studies sought to characterize the functional bradykinin (BK) receptors present in freshly isolated bovine ciliary muscle (BCM) using an organ-bath tissue contraction system. Methods: Cumulative longitudinal isometric tension responses of BCM strips (4–5 mm) were recorded before and after the addition of test compounds to BCM strips hooked up to an isometric strain gauge transducer system. Results: BK and its analogs (7–11 concentrations) contracted BCM in a biphasic concentration-dependent manner. The first high affinity/potency phase accounted for 40–60% of the maximal contraction by each of BK (potency, EC50 = 0.9 ± 0.3 nM), Lys-BK (EC50 = 0.7 ± 0.1 nM), Met-Lys-BK (EC50 = 1 ± 0.1 nM), Hyp3-BK (EC50 = 1 ± 0.2 nM), RMP-7 (EC50 = 3.5 ± 0.5 nM), and Des-Arg9-BK (EC50 = 10 ± 0.4nM) (mean ± SEM, n = 3–8). The second lower activity phase of contraction potency values for these peptides ranged between 100 nM and 3 µM. In the presence of a selective B1-receptor antagonist (R715; 0.1–10 µM), the concentration–response curves to Des-Arg9-BK (B1-receptor agonist) were still observed, indicating activation of B2-receptors by this kinin. Likewise, when B2-receptors were completely blocked by using a B2-selective antagonist (WIN-64338; 1–10 µM), BK still induced BCM contraction, now by stimulating B1-receptors. Conclusions: This agonist/antagonist profile of BCM receptors indicated the presence of both B1- and B2-receptor subtypes, both being responsible for contracting this smooth muscle. The BCM kinin receptors may be involved in changing the shape of the ocular lens to influence accommodation, and since the ciliary muscle is attached to the trabecular meshwork through which aqueous humor drains, endogenously released kinins may regulate intraocular pressure.
Preparation of Phosphorus/Hollow Silica Microsphere Modified Polyacrylonitrile-Based Carbon Fiber Composites and Their Thermal Insulation and Flame Retardant Properties
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Huang Guangsheng , Wang Guobin
Published: November 2024

Since thermal insulation materials with a single function cannot satisfy the increasing requirements for complex usage, the combination of thermal insulation with flame retardancy is desirable in multiple applications. Herein, phosphorous-containing flame retardant modifier (5.0 wt.%, 9.0 wt.%, and 13.0 wt.%) and hollow silica microsphere (130 nm of diameter) were composited with polyacrylonitrile-based carbon nanofibers via electrospinning technique. Electrospun phosphorous/silica/carbon nanofibers (P/HSM/CF) exhibited a uniform and clear fibrous structure (508, 170, and 1550 nm of average fiber diameter) with modified uniform and complete spherical silica. Reduced thermal conductivity (39.9–41.2 mW/m/K) and enhanced limiting oxygen index (29.5–33.5%) were achieved, enabling fire protection grade of fiber membrane from UL-94 V-1 grade to UL-94 V-0 grade efficiently. Moreover, favorable tensile strength (8.64–9.27 MPa) and elongation at break (43.28–48.54%) were obtained, presenting expected applications in structural components. The findings of this work provided a valuable reference for the fabrication of carbon nanofiber-based thermal insulation materials with excellent flame retardant and mechanical properties.
The Implications of Plantation Forest-Driven Land Use/Land Cover Changes for Ecosystem Service Values in the Northwestern Highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Alemayehu Bireda , Suarez-Minguez Juan , Rosette Jacqueline
Published: November 2024

In the northwestern Highlands of Ethiopia, a region characterized by diverse ecosystems, significant land use and land cover (LULC) changes have occurred due to a combination of environmental fragility and human pressures. The implications of these changes for ecosystem service values remain underexplored. This study quantifies the impact of LULC changes, with an emphasis on the expansion of plantation forests, on ecosystem service values in monetary terms to promote sustainable land management practices. Using Landsat images and the Random Forest algorithm in R, LULC patterns from 1985 to 2020 were analyzed, with the ecosystem service values estimated using locally adapted coefficients. The Random Forest classification demonstrated a high accuracy, with values of 0.97, 0.98, 0.96, and 0.97 for the LULC maps of 1985, 2000, 2015, and 2020, respectively. Croplands consistently dominated the landscape, accounting for 53.66% of the area in 1985, peaking at 67.35% in 2000, and then declining to 52.86% by 2020. Grasslands, initially the second-largest category, significantly decreased, while wetlands diminished from 14.38% in 1985 to 1.87% by 2020. Conversely, plantation forests, particularly Acacia decurrens, expanded from 0.4% of the area in 2000 to 28.13% by 2020, becoming the second-largest land cover type. The total ecosystem service value in the district declined from USD 219.52 million in 1985 to USD 39.23 million in 2020, primarily due to wetland degradation. However, plantation forests contributed USD 17.37 million in 2020, highlighting their significant role in restoring ecosystem services, particularly in erosion control, soil formation, nutrient recycling, climate regulation, and habitat provision. This study underscores the need for sustainable land management practices, including wetland restoration and sustainable plantation forestry, to enhance ecosystem services and ensure long-term ecological and economic sustainability.
A Six-Year (2014–2020) Statistical Correlation Study of VLF Terminator Time Shift with Earthquakes in Japan
Authors: Politis Dimitrios Z. , Sasmal Sudipta , Hayakawa Masashi , Haralambous Haris , Datta Abhirup , Potirakis Stelios M.
Published: November 2024

In this study, we present a six-year (2014–2020) statistical analysis of VLF subionospheric propagation data at 19 VLF receivers from the VLF transmitter with call name JJI and frequency 22.2 kHz, all located in Japan. Moderate and strong earthquakes (EQs) (ML≥4.5 and depth ≤ 50 km) that occurred in the wider area around Japan during the same time period with the available VLF data are investigated. The terminator times’ (TT) shift in VLF amplitude data as a possible precursor of an EQ are statistically examined, focusing on the correlation with seismic activity. The concept of the effective EQ magnitude (Meff) is used in order to define the total EQ energy possibly affecting the midpoint of each path for each day. It is important to note that dates when geomagnetic storms or solar flares occurred as well as dates corresponding to the already known winter effect on TT statistics in the north–south direction were excluded. The cross-correlation between TT statistical anomalies and seismic activity, represented by Meff, was extracted. Maximum cross-correlation values were found for most of the cases prior to the subsequent seismic activity, indicating a link between the ionospheric anomalies and the subsequent seismicity. Finally, the wide temporal range of the cross-correlation maxima temporal locations is justified by the inhomogeneity of the lower ionosphere, coupled with the anisotropy of the preseismic effect of the impending seismicity, highlighting the complexity of the EQ preparation processes.
Exploring the Relationship Between Very-High-Resolution Satellite Imagery Data and Fruit Count for Predicting Mango Yield at Multiple Scales
Authors: Torgbor Benjamin Adjah , Sinha Priyakant , Rahman Muhammad Moshiur , Robson Andrew , Brinkhoff James , Suarez Luz Angelica
Published: November 2024

Tree- and block-level prediction of mango yield is important for farm operations, but current manual methods are inefficient. Previous research has identified the accuracies of mango yield forecasting using very-high-resolution (VHR) satellite imagery and an ’18-tree’ stratified sampling method. However, this approach still requires infield sampling to calibrate canopy reflectance and the derived block-level algorithms are unable to translate to other orchards due to the influences of abiotic and biotic conditions. To better appreciate these influences, individual tree yields and corresponding canopy reflectance properties were collected from 2015 to 2021 for 1958 individual mango trees from 55 orchard blocks across 14 farms located in three mango growing regions of Australia. A linear regression analysis of the block-level data revealed the non-existence of a universal relationship between the 24 vegetation indices (VIs) derived from VHR satellite data and fruit count per tree, an outcome likely due to the influence of location, season, management and cultivar. The tree-level fruit count predicted using a random forest (RF) model trained on all calibration data produced a percentage root mean squared error (PRMSE) of 26.5% and a mean absolute error (MAE) of 48 fruits/tree. The lowest PRMSEs produced from RF-based models developed from location, season and cultivar subsets at the individual tree level ranged from 19.3% to 32.6%. At the block level, the PRMSE for the combined model was 10.1% and the lowest values for the location, seasonal and cultivar subset models varied between 7.2% and 10.0% upon validation. Generally, the block-level predictions outperformed the individual tree-level models. Maps were produced to provide mango growers with a visual representation of yield variability across orchards. This enables better identification and management of the influence of abiotic and biotic constraints on production. Future research could investigate the causes of spatial yield variability in mango orchards.
Gravity Predictions in Data-Missing Areas Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Liu Yubin , Zhang Yi , Pang Qipei , Liu Sulan , Li Shaobo , Shi Xuguo , Bian Shaofeng , Wu Yunlong
Published: November 2024

Gravity data, comprising a key foundational dataset, are crucial for various research, including land subsidence monitoring, geological exploration, and navigational positioning. However, the collection of gravity data in specific regions is difficult because of environmental, technical, and economic constraints, resulting in a non-uniform distribution of the observational data. Traditionally, interpolation methods such as Kriging have been widely used to deal with data gaps; however, their predictive accuracy in regions with sparse data still needs improvement. In recent years, the rapid development of artificial intelligence has opened up a new opportunity for data prediction. In this study, utilizing the EGM2008 satellite gravity model, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of three machine learning algorithms—random forest, support vector machine, and recurrent neural network—and compared their performances against the traditional Kriging interpolation method. The results indicate that machine learning methods exhibit a marked advantage in gravity data prediction, significantly enhancing the predictive accuracy.
An Evaluation Study on the Spatial and Temporal Evolution of Water Ecological Security in the Hotan River Basin
Authors: Xu Yujiao , Liu Junjie , Zhao Wanqing , Ding Xiaoyu , Qin Mengtian , Ma Yonggang , Yang Jianjun , Xu Zhonglin
Published: November 2024

With the intensification of global climate change, inland river basins in arid desert regions are facing serious challenges in water supply and ecological and environmental protection. A water ecological security assessment is important as a key management tool in the context of inland river basins situated in arid desert areas. This study evaluated the water ecological security of the Hotan River Basin based on a combination of the Ecology–Produce–Life Space perspective and the Drive–Pressure–Status–Influence–Respond (DPSIR) model. The entropy value method and the composite index method were employed for this purpose, and a regression analysis was used to establish a prediction model to forecast the future water ecological security status. The results show that from 2013 to 2020, the water ecological security status of the Hotan River Basin exhibited a fluctuating upward trend, shifting from an average to a good status. The pressure layer has the greatest impact on water ecological security, while the ecological space within the Ecology–Produce–Life Space is increasing in the overall share year by year. In the future, the water ecological safety condition of the Hotan River Basin is expected to improve and remain in good condition. Taking the Hotan River Basin as an example, the results of this study, combining the Ecology–Produce–Life Space perspectives and the DPSIR model, provide in-depth theoretical and practical value for the evaluation and prediction of water ecological security in inland river basins in arid desert areas, provide a scientific basis and feasible suggestions for relevant decision-making, and emphasize the importance of ecological spatial protection and restoration for the sustainable development of human society and ecosystems.
Solvolysis of Nylon: A Pathway to Sustainable Recycling and Circular Economy
Authors: Gama Nuno , Araújo Jéssica , Godinho Bruno , Ferreira Artur , Barros-Timmons Ana
Published: November 2024

Polyamides (PAs) are extensively utilized across various applications, yet the accumulation of PA residues presents significant ecological and environmental challenges. Given that a substantial portion of fishing nets are composed of nylon, a type of PA, this material’s disposal raises environmental concerns impacting marine life and the global ecosystem. Therefore, to enhance sustainability, they could be collected and recycled. This study introduces a method for the chemical recycling of PA waste using hydrochloric acid (HCl). Through solvolysis, a PA was depolymerized, and the effect of various reaction conditions on the depolymerization yield was analyzed, being the best conditions established in this work (100 °C, 4 h, and an HCl/PA ratio of 11:1, wt.wt−1). Next, a novel separation methodology was employed to isolate recycled products from salts formed during neutralization. Subsequently, these recycled products were incorporated as a partial substitute (up to 10% wt.wt−1) for a conventional PA in a new material production. The results indicate that the presence of recycled products enhances material stiffness due to crystallinity differences compared to the virgin matrix. In turn, the introduction of lower-molecular-weight species increases the materials’ glass transition temperature (Tg) and their melt flow index (MFI). This research underscores a sustainable pathway for PA recycling aligned with circular economy principles, contributing positively to environmental conservation efforts.
Production of a Wood–Plastic Composite with Wastes from Disposable Masks and Corrugated Cardboard: A Sustainable Post-Pandemic Approach
Authors: Santos Anderson Ravik dos , Silva Rivelino Neri , Santos Nayara Mendes dos , Vieira Mariana Fernandes Costa , Patrício Patrícia Santiago de Oliveira , Fontes Wanna Carvalho
Published: November 2024

The increasing demand for disposable textile products, personal care items, and electronic commerce has led to a substantial rise in waste generation, particularly from nonwoven fabric masks (wNWFs) and corrugated cardboard (wCC). This study assessed the feasibility of utilizing these waste materials, which were produced in significant amounts during the COVID-19 pandemic, as both a matrix and reinforcement filler in wood–plastic composites (WPCs). The WPC was fabricated using either two extrusion cycles or thermokinetic homogenization, with both processes being followed by hot pressing. The formulations consisted of virgin polypropylene (vPP), wNWF, and wCC in proportions of 45, 45, and 10 wt %, respectively. The results demonstrated that the composites produced via two extrusion cycles exhibited a tensile strength that was 85% higher and three-point flexural strength three times greater than those produced through thermokinetic homogenization. These findings contribute to advancements in scientific and technological knowledge and offer an efficient solution for managing these types of waste, which continue to be generated post-pandemic.
Integrating the SDGs into Urban Regeneration: A Madrid Nuevo Norte Case Study Using an Adapted Voluntary Local Review Framework
Authors: Álvarez-Melcón Inés , Sisto Raffaele , Rodríguez Álvaro de Juanes , Pereira David
Published: November 2024

While the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have emerged as the preeminent sustainability framework across various spatial scopes, the reporting and assessment of new urban developments and regeneration projects often remain tethered to sustainability frameworks that lack direct alignment with SDG targets. This paper proposes a framework to integrate SDG reporting within urban regeneration initiatives. This approach leverages existing resources, such as the Joint Research Center’s (JRC) European Handbook for SDG Voluntary Local Report (VLR) and UN-Habitat’s Global Urban Monitoring Framework (UMF), to report potential contributions towards SDG progress. The framework is validated through the case study of Madrid Nuevo Norte (MNN), one of the largest urban regeneration projects currently developed in Europe, located in the northern district of the Spanish capital and encompasses the regeneration of a 3.2 million square meter area. The methodology evaluates MNN potential contributions through a set of indicators based on input–output/outcome–impact framework to track the causal pathways arising from MNN activities. This paper presents an analysis of the methodological framework developed for the MNN SDG report during the project-planning phase, with a focus on evaluating the framework’s capacity to accurately estimate the project’s contributions to the SDGs.
Assessing the Impact of Arsenic on Benthic Estuarine Fauna Behavior: Implications for Ecosystem Sustainability
Authors: Venâncio Cátia , Degara Letizia , Pires Adília
Published: November 2024

Estuaries are dynamic ecosystems exposed to a wide range of stressors, including metal (loid) contamination. The assessment of the behavioral characteristics of the species inhabiting these ecosystems may provide a new point of view on chemical contamination since these behaviors generally regulate population dynamics and ecosystem stability. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the changes in behavioral patterns of three estuarine benthonic species (the native polychaete Hediste diversicolor, the non-native polychaete Arenicola marina, and the native clam Scrobicularia plana) when exposed to different concentrations of the metalloid arsenic (0, 0.5, 1.5, 4.5, 13.5, 40.5 mg/kg sediment). Behavioral assessment included bioturbation activity (measured by fluorescent particle remobilization) and determination of the maximum penetration depth by each species, both after 1 and 21 days of exposure. After 21 days of exposure, the ability of each species to burrow was evaluated. Results showed that the bioturbation activity of S. plana was immediately reduced by exposure to As (day 1) but disappeared with exposure time (day 21), whereas A. marina bioturbation activity was significantly increased from day 1 to day 21, expressing their highest values in sediments of 4.5, 13.5, and 40.5 mg of As/kg on day 21. For H. diversicolor, no changes were observed within each time or between the times. Results of the burrowing assay showed that A. marina nearly doubled its burrowing time, as well as increased in double its maximum penetration depth at As concentrations ≥1.5 mg/kg sediment. These results suggest that native species can be quite resilient to chemical contamination over time. However, the greater particle remobilization by the non-native species A. marina when exposed to As may cause displacement of the native fauna, disrupting the natural mutualism created in these environments, and possibly decreasing estuary functionality and biodiversity. Behavioral assessments under chemical exposure may improve the establishment of more feasible protection goals for more sustainable estuaries.
Examining Divergent Sustainable Trends in Textbook Research: A Comparative Study Between Chinese and International Perspectives
Authors: Qu Xuanyi , Chen Xuyuan
Published: November 2024

Textbook research has long been a critical area within the educational academic community. With the ongoing spread of globalization, the significance of educational globalization has become increasingly apparent. Comparative analyses of textbooks from different countries have thus emerged as a popular and critical research topic. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in cross-cultural textbook studies, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of global disparities in this field. This study compiles essential findings from both domestic and international textbook research, aiming to uncover differences and trends. Using CiteSpace software (V.6.2.R4), a comprehensive visual analysis was conducted through bibliometric and knowledge graph methods, comparing Chinese and international textbook research over the past decade (2013–2023). This paper presents an intuitive visual map of the key dynamics in textbook research. Utilizing a quantitative approach, this study analyzed 1644 and 1478 relevant articles from the Web of Science (WoS) and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases, respectively. It examined the annual distribution, core contributors, and institutional co-occurrence of textbook research from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2023, identifying the distinctive characteristics of textbook research both in China and internationally. Additionally, CiteSpace’s built-in algorithm was used to extract keywords and highlight primary research areas, while keyword burst detection was utilized to illustrate developmental trends. The analysis revealed key differences between Chinese and international textbook research in terms of research focus, organizational forms, focal areas, and future development trends. This study also discusses potential future directions in this area, such as establishing a systematic framework for textbook research, fostering a global community of textbook scholars, and integrating localized elements into textbook research. Additionally, it highlights the importance of sustainability in textbook research, emphasizing the need for educational materials that support long-term global educational goals.
The Influence of the Flow of Scientific and Technological Factors on the High-Quality Development of Regional Economy
Authors: Yang Bing , Long Yan , Yang Tingzhang , Sun Wei , Shao Chaofeng
Published: November 2024

In the new stage of China’s economic transformation from high-speed growth to high-quality development, scientific and technological factors have become the new driving force for the high-quality development of China’s economy. Therefore, how the flow of scientific and technological factors affects the high-quality development of regional economy is worthy of in-depth discussion. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces (municipalities and districts) in China from 2006 to 2019, this paper calculates the high-quality economic development index by constructing a comprehensive index system, and empirically examines the direct effect, spatial effect and threshold effect of the flow of scientific and technological factors (including scientific and technological talent factors and scientific and technological capital factors) on high-quality regional economic development. The results show the following: (1) The flow of science and technology talents and science and technology capital is the main driving factor for the high-quality development of regional economy, and the flow of science and technology talents and science and technology capital can play a complementary role. (2) High-quality regional economic development in China presents a certain clustering phenomenon in geographical space. The flow of scientific and technological talent elements and scientific and technological capital elements can stimulate the improvement of high-quality economic development in surrounding areas through the spatial spillover effect of high-quality economic development. (3) Only when the flow of science and technology factors is matched with a higher degree of financial structure and industrial structure can the flow of science and technology factors more effectively promote the high-quality development of regional economy. (4) The higher the level of industrialization and economic development, the more obvious the impact of the flow of scientific and technological talent factors and scientific and technological capital factors on the high-quality economic development. Meanwhile, the lower the degree of marketization, the more obvious the impact of the flow of scientific and technological capital factors on the high-quality economic development.
Evaluating the Impact of Copper Concentrations on Apple Variety Performance: Insights from a Callus Media System
Authors: Jeon Dasom
Published: November 2024

Copper (Cu)-based fungicides are widely used in agriculture, but excessive Cu accumulation in soils can pose risks to crop performance, particularly in perennial fruit crops like apples. This study evaluated the physiological responses of three apple varieties—Braeburn, Fuji, and Cripps Pink—under Cu concentrations ranging from 0 to 20 mg Cu kg⁻¹ using a callus media system. Key traits including the callus growth, fresh and dry weight, copper accumulation, tolerance index (TI), and bioaccumulation factor (BCF) were assessed. The results revealed that high Cu concentrations significantly inhibited the callus growth and biomass. Braeburn’s growth was notably reduced to 0.27 times the control at 15 mg Cu kg−1, and Fuji showed no growth at concentrations above 10 mg Cu kg−1. Cripps Pink displayed greater tolerance, maintaining growth even at 20 mg Cu kg−1. Copper accumulation peaked in Fuji at 4200 mg kg−1 at 20 mg Cu kg−1, while Cripps Pink’s BCF peaked at 120 under 15 mg Cu kg−1. The TI for Cripps Pink consistently exceeded 100% across all Cu levels, contrasting with Fuji’s TI, which dropped significantly at 15 mg Cu kg−1. These findings suggest that maintaining soil Cu levels below critical thresholds is essential to preserve varietal performance and inform Cu management practices in apple cultivation.
Implications of Innovative Strategies for Sustainable Entrepreneurship—Solutions to Combat Climate Change
Authors: Pricopoaia Oana , Lupașc Adrian , Mihai Iuliana Oana
Published: November 2024

We face significant challenges related to sustainability and social responsibility, so sustainable entrepreneurship is a key way to help address these issues. How can sustainable entrepreneurship contribute to combating climate change? This is the question from which this research started. The paper proposes important research directions to develop innovative and sustainable solutions tailored to the problem. By investigating the impact of different innovation strategies, the study aims to provide concrete recommendations to all stakeholders. Recognizing that effective climate action requires collaboration among government, businesses, non-governmental organizations, and citizens, the study emphasizes the importance of raising awareness, education, and access to information. Using fsQCA software version 4.1, the research analyzes various innovation strategies to develop tailored, sustainable solutions. The findings offer concrete recommendations for stakeholders, aiming to facilitate the implementation of sustainable practices and foster a supportive framework for green initiatives. Ultimately, this study contributes to efforts aimed at reducing the carbon footprint and promoting a more responsible economic model in Romania. The results not only provide concrete recommendations for relevant actors but also outline a strategic vision on how a more responsible economic model can be promoted in Romania, with the potential to influence sustainable development policies and inspire future initiatives.
The Social Awareness Index as a Tool to Determine the Role of a Companion Robot in the Lives of People with Reduced Mobility
Authors: Kwiatkowska Emilia , Janusz Marcin , Piotrowski Marek , Krzykowska-Piotrowska Karolina , Dileo Ivano
Published: November 2024

Robots are becoming an increasingly popular element of the developing technological reality. A companion (social) robot can be defined as an autonomous machine that recognises other robots and people and engages in social interactions. Robots of this type are designed to serve people, so they often act as guides, assistants, companions, guardians, teachers and domestic pets. This study aims to define and operationalise the components and synthetically measure the social awareness (index) concerning the usability of a companion robot in everyday life. A comprehensive new research tool was developed as part of the study in the form of an original standardised interview questionnaire by the CATI/CAWI technique. Empirical studies show that an increase in social acceptance requires that potential consumers be provided with the necessary information to know the technologies better and improve their digital skills related to social robots.
The Removal and Mitigation Effects of Biochar on Microplastics in Water and Soils: Application and Mechanism Analysis
Authors: Li Wenxin , Xing Yi , Guo Ying , Zhang Duo , Tang Yajuan , Chen Jiayu , Zhang Han , Jiang Bo
Published: November 2024

Due to their widespread distribution, microplastics (MPs) are endangering the soil ecological environment system, causing water pollution and altering the soil’s physicochemical and microbiological features. Because of its unique pore structure and strong stability, biochar is widely used as an adsorbent. However, the effects of MP–biochar interactions in water and soil environment are still unclear. This review outlines the application and mechanism of biochar as an adsorbent in a water environment for the removal of MPs. Also, biochar serves as remediation material for MPs in soils as it mitigates the adverse effects of MPs on soil properties, enzyme activities and soil microbial community. It was found that woody biochar had the highest yield and was more effective in adsorbing MPs. Further research should focus on the combined effects of biochar and MPs, the environmental risks of biochar, the modification of biochar application of MP-removal technologies, the characterization of MP properties, the remediation of combined contamination of MPs and other pollutants, and the transportation of MPs.
A Process Analysis Framework to Adopt Intelligent Robotic Process Automation (IRPA) in Supply Chains
Authors: Waduge Sandali , Sugathadasa Ranil , Piyatilake Ashani , Nanayakkara Samudaya
Published: November 2024

Intelligent Robotic Process Automation (IRPA) combines Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to automate complex unstructured tasks, improve decision-making, and cope with changing scenarios. A process analysis framework for IRPA adoption was developed by identifying key factors through a literature review and semi-structured expert opinion survey. The employed experts in the survey comprised RPA/IRPA consultants, RPA/IRPA initiative team leaders, and RPA/IRPA developers with three years or more experience. For the initial factor collection phase, there were a total of eighteen (18) responses, and for the factor evaluation phase, a total of twenty-six (26) experts were used to collect responses. Identified factors were shortlisted and evaluated using a Relative Importance Index (RII) analysis. The study’s findings are presented through a Causal-Loop Diagram (CLD) to illustrate the relationships between factors. The framework provides practical guidance for organizations planning to adopt IRPA, informing decision-making, resource allocation, and strategy development. The final process analysis framework highlights the importance of accuracy, level of human involvement in a task, and standardization as the main three primary factors for successful IRPA adoption. Three major secondary factors were identified: digital data input, integration with existing systems, and the cost of adopting new technologies. This research contributes to the added value to existing knowledge and serves as a foundation for future research in IRPA adoption.
Research on Emission Reduction Decisions in Supply Chains Considering Vertical Spillover Effects and Low-Carbon Preferences
Authors: Lin Zigan , Liu Pengfei
Published: November 2024

The growth in carbon emissions is increasingly exacerbating global warming. As the principal source of carbon emissions, companies can effectively enhance their emission reduction levels through the vertical spillover of emission reduction technologies to investigate the impact of vertical spillover rates, consumers’ low-carbon preference coefficients, emission reduction cost coefficients on optimal supply chain decisions, and profits in centralized and decentralized decision-making environments. Considering consumers’ preferences for low-carbon options, this paper constructs a Stackelberg game model under centralized and decentralized supply chain decision-making scenarios. It examines the effects of considering the vertical spillover effects of emission reduction versus not taking them into account. Using backward induction, this study optimizes the emission reduction levels of leading suppliers and manufacturers. The results indicate that an increase in consumers’ low-carbon preference levels and vertical spillover rate not only enhances the emission reduction levels of suppliers and manufacturers but also increases their profits. Conversely, an increase in emission reduction cost coefficients impedes emission reductions, with a more pronounced effect under vertical spillover conditions. In centralized decision-making, increases in vertical spillover rates, consumers’ low-carbon preferences, and decreases in emission reduction cost coefficients create a synergistic effect, resulting in greater increases in emission reduction levels and profits for suppliers and manufacturers compared to the sum of the effects of changes in individual coefficients. This finding provides new insights for governments in formulating relevant policies to promote corporate emission reductions.
Mapping the Sustainability of Waste-to-Energy Processes for Food Loss and Waste in Mexico—Part 2: Environmental and Economic Analysis
Authors: Albalate-Ramírez Alonso , Padilla-Rivera Alejandro , Rueda-Avellaneda Juan Felipe , López-Hernández Brenda Nelly , Miramontes-Martínez Luis Ramiro , Estrada-Baltazar Alejandro , Rivas-García Pasiano
Published: November 2024

Mexico generated 8.9 million tons of food loss and waste (FLW) in the year 2022, which was primarily managed through linear economy schemes where final disposal sites are predominant, leading to significant contributions to climate change and economic losses. This study, as a continuation of a prior work (Part 1), aims to evaluate the economic and environmental feasibility of implementing waste-to-energy anaerobic digestion (WtE-AD) plants for FLW management across Mexico, identifying the key factors that influence the competitiveness of these systems compared to conventional waste management practices. Using the outcomes of an energy feasibility analysis (Part 1), alongside life cycle assessment (LCA), geographic information systems, and cost engineering, this research analyzes the eco-efficiency and viability of WtE-AD for FLW valorization throughout the Mexican territory. The results indicate that, with a conventional waste management fee of USD 35.4 t−1, only the largest WtE-AD plant in the State of Mexico (treatment capacity of 2536.8 t FLW d−1) achieved a positive net present value (NPV) of USD 70.1 million, while all the other plants remained economically unviable. Conversely, under an optimistic scenario with a fee of USD 139 t−1, plants processing over 50 t FLW d−1 achieved profitability, with the largest plant reaching an NPV of USD 1.15 billion. The environmental assessment showed that larger plants effectively act as carbon sinks, with the largest plant reducing emissions by up to −89.8 kg CO2 eq t−1 of FLW. These findings emphasize the need for appropriate waste management fees and governmental incentives to ensure the economic viability of WtE-AD plants. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers, highlighting the potential of WtE-AD technologies to contribute to Mexico’s energy transition and the shift toward a circular economy.
Clean-Label Backdoor Watermarking for Dataset Copyright Protection via Trigger Optimization
Authors: Chen Weitong , Wei Gaoyang , Xu Xin , Xu Yanyan , Peng Haibo , She Yingchen
Published: November 2024

High-quality datasets are essential for training high-performance models, while the process of collection, cleaning, and labeling is costly. As a result, datasets are considered valuable intellectual property. However, when security mechanisms are symmetry-breaking, creating exploitable vulnerabilities, unauthorized use or data leakage can infringe on the copyright of dataset owners. In this study, we design a method to mount clean-label dataset watermarking based on trigger optimization, aiming to protect the copyright of the dataset from infringement. We first perform iterative optimization of the trigger based on a surrogate model, with targets class samples guiding the updates. The process ensures that the optimized triggers contain robust feature representations of the watermark target class. A watermarked dataset is obtained by embedding optimized triggers into randomly selected samples from the watermark target class. If an adversary trains a model with the watermarked dataset, our watermark will manipulate the model’s output. By observing the output of the suspect model on samples with triggers, it can be determined whether the model was trained on the watermarked dataset. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits high imperceptibility and strong robustness against pruning and fine-tuning attacks. Compared to existing methods, the proposed method significantly improves effectiveness at very low watermarking rates.
Quantitative Analysis of Magnetic Force of Axial Symmetry Permanent Magnet Structure Using Hybrid Boundary Element Method
Authors: Vučković Ana , Vučković Dušan , Perić Mirjana , Ranđelović Branislav M.
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the forces generated by axially magnetized ring permanent magnets with trapezoidal cross-sections when placed near a soft magnetic cylinder. Utilizing the Hybrid Boundary Element Method (HBEM), this study models interactions in magnetic configurations, aiming to improve force calculation efficiency and accuracy compared to traditional finite element methods (FEMM 4.2 software program). The influence of the permanent magnet and the soft magnetic cylinder is approximated with a system of thin toroidal sources on the surfaces of the magnet and the cylinder, which significantly reduces the computation time for the force calculation. The approach is validated by comparing results with FEM solutions, revealing high precision with a much faster computation. Additionally, this study explores the influence of various parameters, including magnet size, separation distance, and magnetic permeability of the cylinder, on the magnetic force. The results demonstrate that the HBEM approach is effective for analyzing complex magnetic configurations, particularly in applications requiring efficient parametric studies. This approach can be adapted for other geometries, such as truncated cones or rectangular cross-section ring magnets. The findings contribute valuable insights into designing efficient magnetic systems and optimizing force calculations for varied magnet geometries and configurations, including the atypical ones.
An Efficient Dense Reconstruction Algorithm from LiDAR and Monocular Camera
Authors: Xiang Siyi , Zeng Zepeng , Jiang Jiantao , Zhang Dabo , Liu Nannan
Published: November 2024

Dense reconstruction have been studied for decades in the fields of computer vision and robotics, in which LiDAR and camera are widely used. However, vision-based methods are sensitive to illumination variation and lack direct depth, and LiDAR-based methods are limited by sparse LiDAR measurement and lacking color and texture information. In this paper, we propose a novel 3D reconstruction algorithm based on LiDAR and a monocular camera, which realizes dense reconstruction. In the algorithm, a LiDAR odometry is used to get accurate poses and poses calculated by the odometry module are used in the calculation of depth maps and fusion of depth maps, and then mesh and texture mapping are implemented. In addition, a semantic segmentation network and a depth completion network are used to obtain dense and accurate depth maps. The concept of symmetry is utilized to generate 3D models of objects or scenes; that is, the reconstruction and camera imaging of these objects or scenes are symmetrical. Experimental results on public dataset show that the proposed algorithm achieves higher accuracy, efficiency and completeness than existing methods.
Numerical Simulations Using iRIC Nays2DH for Sediment Transport Behaviors in Dam Breach Tests
Authors: Feng Zheng-Yi , Chen Zhi-You , Chen Su-Chin
Published: November 2024

After the breach of a landslide dam, the sediment in the breach opening will be carried downstream by the breach flood. The river channel will also be eroded by the flood, resulting in bed load transport. Three large-scale dam breach tests were conducted to investigate the sediment transport behavior after a dam breach. The topography data of the creek channel were measured before and after the dam breach tests to understand the sediment transport behavior. The sediment transport simulations of the dam breach tests were conducted using the iRIC Nays2DH software. The simulations focused on three types of test setups: the single dam, single dam with a spur dike, and double dam models. The terrain (DEM) for the numerical model input was designated based on the LiDAR results, and a flow hydrograph during the dam breach tests was applied. The accuracy of the simulations was assessed using the “coverage index” and “mean absolute percentage error”. A numerical parametrical study was performed to find the major parameters that influenced the simulations. The results showed that the dynamic behavior of water flow and sediment during the dam breach processes were effectively captured by the iRIC Nays2DH simulation, but with limitations. The average flow velocity of the flood in the single dam case was the fastest among the three types of dam breaches. Due to the contraction of the creek channel caused by the spur dike, severe erosion occurred locally, and the flow rate increased in the narrowed section. Water impoundment between the two dams after the first dam breach and the consequent breach of the second dam were also well-simulated for the double dam breach. The findings and simulations in this study help explain dam breaches better and can guide researchers working on sediment transport during dam-breach floods.