bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Meanings of Food Sustainability: An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Troncoso-Pantoja Claudia , Cáceres-Rodríguez Paola , Amaya-Placencia Antonio , Lataste-Quintana Claudia , Valenzuela Rodrigo
Published: September 2023

Sustainable food combines nutritional, environmental, economic, and social aspects. Considering the need to recognize the Chilean reality in this matter, this study proposes to interpret the meanings that food professionals give to food sustainability, based on the question: What meanings do food and nutrition professionals give to the relevance and measurement of food sustainability in their professional work? To answer this question, qualitative research was carried out using the interpretative paradigm of exploratory scope. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and their responses were analyzed using the content-analysis technique. The results indicate that environmental care is valued in accordance with the local regulations in force. Despite this valuation, its implementation has been complex in developing countries, due to economic aspects and political will. Sustainable culinary preparation is identified, building a definition based on ecology and local identity, highlighting the use of natural foods. In addition, there is a need to standardize the indicators for its measurement and to reinforce communication strategies to improve its knowledge. In conclusion, for professionals in the gastronomic and nutritional areas, the sustainability of food and culinary preparation requires a comprehensive, integrated vision of the different factors, depending on the user and the entities that provide food services.
Horizontal and Uplift Bearing Characteristics of a Cast-In-Place Micropile Group Foundation in a Plateau Mountainous Area
Authors: Li Haitao , Ren Guangming
Published: September 2023

Micropile groups have been progressively more frequently adopted in the construction of transmission tower bases due to their compact size and flexible construction advantages. However, the load-bearing characteristics and deformation mechanisms of micropile groups are complex, and the study of their coupling effects under combined loads remains unclear. Consequently, this paper presents a field static load test of micropile groups in a highland mountainous area. The analysis encompasses the axial force distribution and load-sharing ratio of micropiles. With a focus on micropile groups subjected to both uplift and horizontal combined loads, the coupled effects under different load combination ratios are examined using numerical simulation methods. The key findings are as follows: During the uplift loading process, the load distribution among individual piles is relatively uniform, with lower side friction resistance gradually coming into play to counterbalance the top load. The load–uplift displacement curve exhibits a steep characteristic, making it susceptible to sudden failure in practical engineering applications. Under the simultaneous action of uplift (V) and horizontal (H) loads, the unbalanced lateral frictional resistance on both sides of the pile segment induces additional bending moments, which is an important part affecting the load-coupling mechanisms. The uplift resistance capacity of micropile groups decreases with an increase in horizontal load, while the horizontal load-carrying capacity initially decreases and then increases with an increase in uplift load. The space enclosed by the yield envelope under combined load, and the vertical line of the ultimate load, is divided into a ‘failure zone’ and a ‘safety zone.’ In the design of the pile foundation, the uplift bearing capacity reduced by the ‘failure zone’ should be taken into account.
Impact of Low-Reactivity Calcined Clay on the Performance of Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Mortar
Authors: Boakye Kwabena , Khorami Morteza
Published: September 2023

Availability of aluminosiliceous materials is essential for the production and promotion of geopolymer concrete. Unlike fly ash, which can only be found in industrial regions, clays are available almost everywhere but have not received sufficient attention to their potential use as a precursor for geopolymer synthesis. This study investigates the effectiveness of calcined clay as a sole and binary precursor (with fly ash) for the preparation of geopolymer mortar. Fly ash-based geopolymer containing between 0 and 100% low-grade calcined clay was prepared to investigate the effect of calcined clay replacement on the geopolymerization process and resultant mortar, using a constant liquid/solid ratio. Reagent-grade sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) were mixed and used for the alkali solution preparation. Six different mortar mixes were formulated using sand and the geopolymer binder, comprising varying fly ash-to-calcined clay ratios. The combined effect of the two source materials on compressive strength, setting time, autogenous shrinkage, and porosity was studied. The source materials were characterized using XRD, SEM, FTIR, and XRF techniques. Isothermal calorimetry was used to characterize the effect of low-grade calcined clay on the geopolymerization process. The addition of calcined clay reduced the surface interaction between the dissolved particles in the alkali solution, leading to slow initial reactivity. Geopolymer mortar containing 20% calcined clay outperformed the reference geopolymer mortar by 5.6%, 17%, and 18.5% at 7, 28, and 91 days, respectively. The MIP analysis revealed that refinement of the pore structure of geopolymer specimens containing calcined clay resulted in the release of tensional forces within the pore fluid. Optimum replacement was found to be 20%. From this study, the mutual reliance on the physical and inherent properties of the two precursors to produce geopolymer mortar with desirable properties has been shown. The findings strongly suggest that clay containing low content of kaolinite can be calcined and added to fly ash, together with appropriate alkali activators, to produce a suitable geopolymer binder for construction applications.
Enhancing the Performance of Human Motion Energy Harvesting through Optimal Smoothing Capacity in the Rectifier
Authors: Gorņevs Ilgvars , Blūms Juris
Published: September 2023

Energy harvesting offers a promising solution for powering a growing variety of low-power electronics; however, harnessing energy from human motion, with its irregular and low-frequency bursts of power, presents conversion challenges. As rectification is a common part of it, this study investigates the influence of smoothing capacitor values on rectifier output for short, intermittent signals. We propose an analytical model that identifies an optimal smoothing capacity for the full-bridge rectifier, considering harvester internal resistance, frequency, and load resistance and leading to the highest average output voltage after rectification. The model was validated with detailed computer simulations; furthermore, a similar effect was revealed on a voltage multiplier circuit as well. Experimental measurements demonstrate that deviating from the optimal smoothing capacity results in up to 10% decrease in rectified RMS voltage, leading to significant drops in output power in specific energy harvesting systems. A real-world experiment with a human motion energy harvester further confirmed the findings in a naturally varying generation environment.
Estimation of Short-Term Power of Wind Turbines Using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Swarm Intelligence
Authors: Ateş Kübra Tümay
Published: September 2023

The integration of wind power into the electricity grid faces a significant challenge due to the unpredictable nature of wind speed fluctuations. Therefore, ensuring precise short-term predictions of power output from wind turbines is vital for effectively incorporating wind energy into the grid and proficiently managing power systems. In this paper, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN)-based approach for the short-term power forecasting of wind turbines based on a swarm intelligence algorithm is proposed. Also, a simulation study of the wind power real system at different wind speeds is presented by using MATLAB/Simulink. The swarm intelligence algorithm is employed to optimize the forecasting model parameters. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated using real data from a wind farm in Turkey. Three distinct methodologies are utilized to process the data efficiently: ANN, ANN with Firefly Algorithm (ANN-FA), and ANN with Particle Swarm Optimization (ANN-PSO). The results demonstrate that the swarm intelligence algorithm outperforms traditional forecasting methods, such as statistical approaches and machine learning techniques, in terms of accuracy and reliability. Furthermore, the computational efficiency of the algorithm is examined, and it is shown that the swarm intelligence-based approach offers a practical solution for real-time forecasting applications. The algorithm’s scalability and adaptability make it suitable for large-scale wind farms with multiple turbines, as it can handle the inherent variability and uncertainties associated with wind power generation. The proposed method offers an accurate and reliable forecasting tool that can assist power system operators and energy market participants in making informed decisions for the efficient utilization of wind energy resources.
Depressive Symptoms and Associated Factors among Employees in Public Utility Places of Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Wu Lizhi , Li Xueqing , Tu Pengchen , Wang Xiaofeng , Chen Zhijian , Xing Mingluan
Published: September 2023

Depression has been known to adversely influence the working performance of employees. However, compared with physical health, few studies have reported the prevalence of depressive symptoms among employees in workplaces. This study aimed to investigate the current situation and the relationships among the prevalence of depressive symptoms, physical health, social–psychological factors, working conditions, environmental perception, and workplace performance of employees in public utility places in Zhejiang Province, China. A cross-sectional study was conducted during the fourth quarter of 2019. A total of 1232 individuals responded to the survey. Six types of information—sociodemographic characteristics, working conditions, psychosocial factors, four groups of physical symptoms, working performance, and depressive symptoms—were collected. Logistic regression analysis was performed. The survey results showed that the prevalence of depressive symptoms among employees in public utility places in Zhejiang Province was 17.9%. Perceptions of a poor work environment, poor interpersonal relationships, an unfulfilling life, and frequent ocular and general uncomfortable symptoms were associated with a higher risk of depressive symptoms. Strong work ability, fulfilment in life, and taking the initiative to wear or use protective equipment at work were associated with a lower risk of depressive symptoms. The results of this study will provide valuable guidance for the scientific intervention for depressive symptoms among public utility place employees in the future.
Seismic Characterization of a Landslide Complex: A Case History from Majes, Peru
Authors: Yang Jihyun , Shragge Jeffrey , Girard Aaron J. , Gonzales Edgard , Ticona Javier , Minaya Armando , Krahenbuhl Richard
Published: September 2023

Seismic characterization of landslides offers the potential for developing high-resolution models on subsurface shear-wave velocity profile. However, seismic methods based on reflection processing are challenging to apply in such scenarios as a consequence of the disturbance to the often well-defined structural and stratigraphic layering by the landslide process itself. We evaluate the use of alternative seismic characterization methods based on elastic full waveform inversion (E-FWI) to probe the subsurface of a landslide complex in Majes, southern Peru, where recent agricultural development and irrigation activities have altered the hydrology and groundwater table and are thought to have contributed to increased regional landslide activities that present continuing sustainability community development challenges. We apply E-FWI to a 2D near-surface seismic data set for the purpose of better understanding the subsurface in the vicinity of a recent landslide location. We use seismic first-arrival travel-time tomography to generate the inputs required for E-FWI to generate the final high-resolution 2D compressional- and shear-wave (P- and S-wave) velocity models. At distances greater than 140 m from the cliff, the inverted models show a predominantly vertically stratified velocity structure with a low-velocity near-surface layer between 5–15 m depth. At distances closer than 140 m from the cliff, though, the models exhibit significantly reduced shear-wave velocities, stronger heterogeneity, and localized shorter wavelength structure in the top 20 m. These observations are consistent with those expected for a recent landslide complex; however, follow-on geotechnical analysis is required to confirm these assertions. Overall, the E-FWI seismic approach may be helpful for future landslide characterization projects and, when augmented with additional geophysical and geotechnical analyses, may allow for improved understanding of the hydrogeophysical properties associated with suspected ground-water-driven landslide activity.
Optimizing Power Market Clearing with Segmented Electricity Prices: A Bilevel Model
Authors: Wang Chong , Ni Mingfeng , Shi Yan , Zhang Luxi , Li Wenjie , Li Xueling
Published: September 2023

The energy sector plays a critical role in reducing emissions by transitioning to renewable energy. However, integrating renewable energy into the electricity market impacts market clearing. This article investigates market clearing decisions of renewable and traditional energy companies, considering electricity price segmentation. We propose an interprovincial bilevel market clearing decision-making model. The upper level optimizes the provincial market through a unilateral bidding model, minimizing the operating cost of the power market as the objective function. Meanwhile, the lower level optimizes power purchases by minimizing the cost of acquiring interprovincial renewable energy. A case study was conducted to determine the optimal interprovincial renewable energy purchasing power for multiple energy generation companies, considering the minimum market operating cost and segmented electricity prices. The proposed bilevel market clearing model captures the interplay between intraprovincial and interprovincial transactions, integrating electricity price and ecological attributes. By solving this model, we can attain optimal interprovincial electricity purchase of renewable energy, minimizing the overall market operating cost in the province. Through simulation, 18% of interprovincial transactions are needed to absorb 7.21 KWH of renewable energy from other provinces. When considering price segmentation, the cross-provincial two-level market clearing model can reduce the market cost by CNY 1,554,700.
Research on Spider Recognition Technology Based on Transfer Learning and Attention Mechanism
Authors: Wang Jianming , Chen Qiyu , Shi Chenyang
Published: September 2023

Methods such as transfer learning and attention mechanisms play an important role in small-sample image classification tasks. However, the conventional transfer method retains too much prior knowledge of the source domain and cannot learn the feature information of the target domain well. At the same time, it is difficult for the neural network model to find discriminative features and locate key feature regions, and it is easily interfered with by information such as complex backgrounds. Spiders usually appear symmetrical, but they are not perfectly symmetrical. How to accurately classify spider images depends on how to make the model focus on the key features for recognizing spiders in these symmetrical and asymmetrical regions. In view of the above problems, in this paper, we propose ECSM-ResNet-50, a model for small-sample spider image classification. The model fuses channel and spatial information and pays attention to the correlation between different locations in the input data. The Efficient Channel Attention (ECA) mechanism and the spatial attention mechanism were added to the model, and the self-attention mechanism was added to the end of the model. ECSM-ResNet-50 was constructed and trained on a small-sample spider data set (SPIDER9-IMAGE) using a layer-by-layer fine-tuning transfer learning strategy. Compared with ResNet-50, ECSM-ResNet-50 improved the average accuracy of nine species of spider recognition by 1.57% to 90.25%. This study contributes to the field of small-sample image recognition.
Applications of Serine Integrases in Synthetic Biology over the Past Decade
Authors: Ba Fang , Zhang Yufei , Wang Luyao , Liu Wan-Qiu , Li Jian
Published: September 2023

Serine integrases are emerging as one of the most powerful biological tools for biotechnology. Over the past decade, many research papers have been published on the use of serine integrases in synthetic biology. In this review, we aim to systematically summarize the various studies ranging from structure and the catalytic mechanism to genetic design and interdisciplinary applications. First, we introduce the classification, structure, and catalytic model of serine integrases. Second, we present a timeline with milestones that describes the representative achievements. Then, we summarize the applications of serine integrases in genome engineering, genetic design, and DNA assembly. Finally, we discuss the potential of serine integrases for advancing interdisciplinary research. We anticipate that serine integrases will be further expanded as a versatile genetic toolbox for synthetic biology applications.
Ecological Niche Modeling of Aedes and Culex Mosquitoes: A Risk Map for Chikungunya and West Nile Viruses in Zambia
Authors: Velu Rachel Milomba , Kwenda Geoffrey , Bosomprah Samuel , Chisola Moses Ngongo , Simunyandi Michelo , Chisenga Caroline Cleopatra , Bumbangi Flavien Nsoni , Sande Nicholus Chintu , Simubali Limonty , Mburu Monicah Mirai , Tembo John , Bates Matthew , Simuunza Martin Chitolongo , Chilengi Roma , Orba Yasuko , Sawa Hirofumi , Simulundu Edgar
Published: September 2023

The circulation of both West Nile Virus (WNV) and Chikungunya Virus (CHIKV) in humans and animals, coupled with a favorable tropical climate for mosquito proliferation in Zambia, call for the need for a better understanding of the ecological and epidemiological factors that govern their transmission dynamics in this region. This study aimed to examine the contribution of climatic variables to the distribution of Culex and Aedes mosquito species, which are potential vectors of CHIKV, WNV, and other arboviruses of public-health concern. Mosquitoes collected from Lusaka as well as from the Central and Southern provinces of Zambia were sorted by species within the Culex and Aedes genera, both of which have the potential to transmit viruses. The MaxEnt software was utilized to predict areas at risk of WNV and CHIKV based on the occurrence data on mosquitoes and environmental covariates. The model predictions show three distinct spatial hotspots, ranging from the high-probability regions to the medium- and low-probability regions. Regions along Lake Kariba, the Kafue River, and the Luangwa Rivers, as well as along the Mumbwa, Chibombo, Kapiri Mposhi, and Mpika districts were predicted to be suitable habitats for both species. The rainfall and temperature extremes were the most contributing variables in the predictive models.
Progress on Phage Display Technology: Tailoring Antibodies for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: França Renato Kaylan Alves , Studart Igor Cabral , Bezerra Marcus Rafael Lobo , Pontes Larissa Queiroz , Barbosa Antonio Marcos Aires , Brigido Marcelo Macedo , Furtado Gilvan Pessoa , Maranhão Andréa Queiroz
Published: September 2023

The search for innovative anti-cancer drugs remains a challenge. Over the past three decades, antibodies have emerged as an essential asset in successful cancer therapy. The major obstacle in developing anti-cancer antibodies is the need for non-immunogenic antibodies against human antigens. This unique requirement highlights a disadvantage to using traditional hybridoma technology and thus demands alternative approaches, such as humanizing murine monoclonal antibodies. To overcome these hurdles, human monoclonal antibodies can be obtained directly from Phage Display libraries, a groundbreaking tool for antibody selection. These libraries consist of genetically engineered viruses, or phages, which can exhibit antibody fragments, such as scFv or Fab on their capsid. This innovation allows the in vitro selection of novel molecules directed towards cancer antigens. As foreseen when Phage Display was first described, nowadays, several Phage Display-derived antibodies have entered clinical settings or are undergoing clinical evaluation. This comprehensive review unveils the remarkable progress in this field and the possibilities of using clever strategies for phage selection and tailoring the refinement of antibodies aimed at increasingly specific targets. Moreover, the use of selected antibodies in cutting-edge formats is discussed, such as CAR (chimeric antigen receptor) in CAR T-cell therapy or ADC (antibody drug conjugate), amplifying the spectrum of potential therapeutic avenues.
Spreading of the High-Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (H5N1) Virus of Clade 2.3.4.4b into Uruguay
Authors: Marandino Ana , Tomás Gonzalo , Panzera Yanina , Leizagoyen Carmen , Pérez Ramiro , Bassetti Lucía , Negro Raúl , Rodríguez Sirley , Pérez Ruben
Published: September 2023

Background: Avian influenza viruses (genus Alphainfluenzavirus, family Orthomyxoviridae) infect avian and mammal hosts. In 2022, the high pathogenicity avian influenza virus (H5N1) spread to South America, resulting in the loss of thousands of wild birds, including endangered species, and severely impacting the global poultry industry. Objectives: We analyzed the complete genomes of influenza viruses obtained from wild birds and backyard poultry in Uruguay between February and May 2023. Methods: Twelve complete genomes were obtained in 2023 from cloacal swabs using Illumina sequencing. Genomes were phylogenetically analyzed with regional and global strains. Findings: The identified strains have multiple basic amino acids at the hemagglutinin cleavage sites, which is typical for highly pathogenic strains. The Uruguayan viruses belonged to hemagglutinin clade 2.3.4.4b of the H5N1 subtype. A reassortment in North America has resulted in some segments of South American strains being of Eurasian or North American origins. The Uruguayan viruses shared a common ancestor with South American strains from Argentina and Chile. The influenza viruses displayed a spatiotemporal divergence pattern rather than being host-specific. Main Conclusions: The arrival of the 2.3.4.4b clade in Uruguay may have been mediated by birds that acquired the virus from Argentine and Chilean waterfowl migrating in the Pacific Flyway.
First Report of Proteocephalus longicollis (Zeder, 1800) in Alosa fallax lacustris (Fatio, 1890) from Lake Garda (Italy): Morphological and Molecular Study
Authors: Corti Ivan , De Benedetto Giovanni , Riolo Kristian , Malandra Renato , Gaglio Gabriella
Published: September 2023

Twaite shad (Alosa fallax) includes two subspecies, the anadromous Alosa fallax nilotica, and the landlocked species Alosa fallax lacustris, representing the only Clupeidae inhabiting Lake Garda. Study of the parasitic fauna of this species in this area is still limited. For this reason, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence of tapeworms from A. fallax lacustris sampled in Lake Garda. Sixty-six A. fallax lacustris specimens were collected at the Milan fish market (Lombardy, Italy); specifically, an evaluation of the gastrointestinal contents was carried out for the presence of helminths. All parasites found were fixed in 70% ethanol and transferred to the laboratories of the University of Messina for morphological and molecular analysis. Parts of the parasites were stained with Semichon’s carmine red technique. Molecular analysis was carried out using LSU rRNA and ITS2 region genes. Eight specimens out of sixty-six (12.1%) were positive for adult cestodes within the pyloric caeca. Morphological and molecular analysis could to identify the parasites found to be Proteocephalus longicollis. This parasite species is not considered a zoonotic agent, representing a low risk of parasitic fish-borne zoonosis for consumers of this appreciated fish from Lake Garda.
Decreasing the Use of High-Quality Make-Up Water in the Steel Sector by Coupling Enhanced Sensors Circuit with Decision and Support Tool
Authors: Matino Ismael , Colla Valentina , Maddaloni Alessandro , Cateni Silvia , Iannino Vincenzo , Petrucciani Alice , Zaccara Antonella , Branca Teresa Annunziata , Matino Ruben , Chini Matteo , Bianco Loris , Porisiensi Sergio , De Cecco Luca , Tomat Gianluca , Nodusso Flavio , Lepore Guido
Published: September 2023

Water is a fundamental steelworks additional resource; its efficient management is crucial for process reliability, product quality and environmental sustainability. Within steelworks, water is exploited mainly for direct or indirect cooling and is usually reused and recycled after cooling and treatments to eliminate contaminants. However, bottlenecks often exist, limiting water management efficiency and increasing water consumption. These issues are mainly related to water treatments efficiency, lack of water parameters monitoring and the manual/semi-manual management of water networks. Furthermore, these aspects are generally associated with the plant’s service life; brownfield sites are mostly affected. In these cases, improving sensor circuits coupled with decision support tools can support human decisions and lead to significant advantages. The paper discusses a potential application of such tools after new sensors installation in a use case concerning the minimization of the use of high-quality make-up-water for the indirect cooling system of a wire-rod mill in electric steelworks. The effectiveness of the described tool is shown, and the advantages are highlighted in terms of potential savings that can reach 95% and 4% of the current consumption of well and osmotic water in the considered circuit, respectively, corresponding to a saving of about 9400 m3/year of high-quality water.
Solar Disinfection Using Zero Valent Iron for Inactivation of Escherichia coli and Total Coliforms in Water Using a Raceway Reactor
Authors: Lienqueo-Aburto Hugo , Cornejo-Ponce Lorena , Baca-Delgado Laura , Vilca-Salinas Patricia , Arenas-Herrera María Janet
Published: September 2023

Contamination from microorganisms is one of the gravest types of water pollution. In 2022, there were 842,000 new cases of gastrointestinal diseases worldwide. The aim of this study was to size, construct, and evaluate a Raceway reactor (28 L total capacity) as a laboratory-scale solar disinfection system for the inactivation of Escherichia coli and total coliforms in water, using Zero Valent Iron (ZVI). For this purpose, a sample of E. coli contaminated potable water was treated with steel wool as a source of ZVI and solar irradiation. Using a 23 factorial design with four central points and a total of 12 trials, the following was investigated: the effect of the Fe0 dose (0.6–1.8 g L−1); it should be noted that both the natural and drinking waters of the study area have iron concentrations of less than 0.1 mg L−1. Depth tests of the treated water in the reactor were carried out at different levels (5, 7 and 9 cm) and with a duration of four to six hours. Therefore, it is concluded that the reactor/ZVI is effective for the disinfection of E. coli and total coliforms at concentrations >2419.6 MPN/100 mL, reaching 99.96% disinfection for both cases; it is also a cost-effective treatment due to its inexpensive inputs.
Effect of Antibiotics and Thermophilic Pre-Treatment on Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Pig Manure and Corn Straw
Authors: Wen Qinxue , Asfaw Solomon Tsegay , Yang Shuo , Chen Zhiqiang , Ahmed Salman Abdu , Li Yixin , Shiferaw Henok
Published: September 2023

The excessive use of antibiotics in the pig breeding industry leads to the accumulation of antibiotic residuals in the environment, which is attributed to the improper treatment of livestock excrements. Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and Norfloxacin (NOR) are antibiotics used in pig breeding and veterinary medicines as growth promoters and antibacterial drugs. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of these antibiotics and thermophilic pre-treatment on methane (CH4) yield by anaerobic co-digestion (AcoD) of pig manure and corn straw under mesophilic temperature condition (35 ± 1 °C). We used antibiotics at a concentration of 0, 20 and 60 mg L−1 (three stages) in two lab-scale continuously stirred tank reactors. The first reactor was run using untreated fed and the second reactor was run with thermophilic (55 ± 1 °C) pre-treated fed. The results showed that the CH4 productions from reactor one were 205, 163 and 128 and from reactor two were 222, 185 and 173 mL CH4 g−1 VSadded, respectively. This elucidates that the presence of antibiotics had a negative effect on CH4 production. Moreover, thermophilic pre-treatment improved the performance of the anaerobic digestion and CH4 production.
Effect of Straw Mulching and Deep Burial Mode on Water and Salt Transport Regularity in Saline Soils
Authors: Li Mengzhu , Wang Wei , Wang Xiaofang , Yao Chunmei , Wang Yuanbo , Wang Zanxia , Zhou Weizhi , Chen Endian , Chen Weifeng
Published: September 2023

To examine the impacts of various straw mulching techniques, this study used the indoor soil column test as the primary research method and the field test as the validation test on the salinity dynamics of saline and alkaline soils. The experiment in this study was designed with five treatments: SC means for straw covered on the soil surface; DB means for straw buried 40 cm below the soil surface; S1D1, S2D1, and S1D2 represent the ratio of soil surface cover to the amount of straw buried 40 cm below the soil surface as 1:1, 2:1, and 1:2, respectively. The results of the indoor soil column test showed that all kinds of straw mulching techniques could effectively reduce soil moisture evaporation, and the straw mulching and deep burial mode was more effective: after 45 days of evaporation, compared with that of CK, the cumulative evaporation of soil moisture were reduced by 29.61%, 27.49%, 37.87%, 65.85%, and 54.58% for SC, DB, S1D1, S2D1, and S1D2, respectively; the straw mulching and deep burial mode could reduce the soil evaporation intensity more effectively than the single-layer straw mulching mode: the mean soil evaporation rates of CK, SC, DB, S1D1, S2D1 and S1D2 after 45 days of evaporation were 1.27 mm/day, 0.90 mm/day, 0.92 mm/day, 0.80 mm/day, 0.43 mm/day, and 0.58 mm/day; various straw mulching techniques could inhibit the accumulation of salts in the surface soil and effectively regulate the distribution of salts in the soil profile, among which the straw mulching and deep burial mode had the best effect of salinity suppression: after 30 days of evaporation, the re-salinization levels of the 0–40 cm soil layer of SC, DB, S1D1, S2D1, and S1D2 were reduced by 66.78%, 43.08%, 33.95%, 92.04% and 45.94% compared with that in the CK, respectively; there was a significant positive correlation between cumulative evaporation of soil moisture and cumulative soil salinity, which implied that cumulative soil salinity increased with the increase in cumulative evaporation of soil moisture. The results of the field experiment justified the results of the indoor soil column test: after four months of evaporation, the field moisture contents of CK, SC, DB, S1D1, S2D1, and S1D2 in the 0–20 cm soil layer were 14.77%, 3.51%, 15.10%, 15.26%, 18.73%, and 2.94%, respectively; during the experimental period, the salt inhibition rate of SC, DB, S1D1, S2D1 and S1D2 in 0–20 cm soil layer were 35.46%, 44.76%, 50.98%, 54.80% and 37.30%, respectively. Therefore, in a comprehensive view, S2D1 treatment had the best effect of salt and vapor suppression on saline soil. This study is of great significance for the resource utilization of straw waste, the improvement of water utilization and efficiency, and the management of soil salinization.
Flooding Depth and Flooding Duration with the Zonation of Riparian Plant Communities in the Three Gorges Reservoir of China
Authors: Yi Xuemei , Huang Yuanyang , Jiang Yi , Ma Maohua , Chen Qiao , Wu Shengjun
Published: September 2023

The hydraulics of flows, especially the flooding process, influence the patterns of riparian plant zonation. Different characteristics of the flooding process should be analyzed to correlate plant zonation with flooding due to their different effect modes. The effects of flooding characteristics on riparian plants have yet to be studied, especially in the field. Thus, two elements of the flow regime, flooding duration and depth, were analyzed in relation to the riparian plants of the Three Gorges Reservoir. The taxonomic indices and the functional diversity of the riparian plants in three seasons in 2019 and the corresponding inundation character were surveyed. Our results showed that the riparian plant diversity and functional diversity varied by season. A significant negative relationship between plant diversity and flooding depth was observed, while flooding duration was not a significant predictor in different seasons. The greater explanatory capacity of flooding depth than that of flooding duration suggests that flooding depth could be a better indicator of the zonation of the riparian vegetation in this area. Concerning the vital component of flow hydraulics, growing opportunities to study flooding depth and strategies that consider both flooding time and flooding depth in a reservoir should be offered, as they will assist in refining process-based river restoration.
A Review of Beneficial Use and Management of Dredged Material
Authors: Solanki Pranshoo , Jain Bhupesh , Hu Xi , Sancheti Gaurav
Published: September 2023

This study systematically examined dredged materials from various aspects, including their sources, the volume generated annually, beneficial uses, and the management processes currently practiced. In addition, this paper presents the relevant policies governing the dredging, reuse, and disposal of dredged materials in the United States. A summary of various sources, types/classifications, and the physical and chemical properties of dredged materials used by various researchers are presented. This paper also summarizes the innovative techniques for the beneficial reuse of dredged materials in a wide range of applications in concrete materials, construction products, roadway construction, habitat building, landfill liner/cap, agriculture soil reconstruction, and beach nourishment. Further, limitations and corresponding solutions related to the beneficial use and management of dredged materials were provided in the end.
A visão dos profissionais de saúde sobre cesta de bens e serviços de saúde na Baixada Fluminense
Authors: Da Silva Cristina Fernanda Viana , Da Costa Flaviane Santos
Published: September 2023

A visão clínica dos profissionais de saúde por muitas vezes destoa com a relação econômica da representação deste setor para economia este estudo tem por objetivo discutir a visão dos profissionais de saúde da baixada fluminense sobre cesta de bens e serviços e entender as necessidades de saúde da população dessa região, fazendo uma ligação com o empreendedorismo e o desenvolvimento regional.  É pesquisa tem natureza quantitativa descritiva, para realizar o estudo utilizamos a técnica snowball (bola de neve). A coleta ocorreu entre 01 de outubro de 2021 e foi finalizada em 15 de outubro do mesmo ano. Ao realizar análise dos resultados da pesquisa inicial temos o perfil dos profissionais que responderam ao questionário, 84,2% são do sexo feminino e 15,8% do sexo masculino, as categorias profissionais que participaram do estudo foram Enfermagem 42,1%, Fisioterapia 21,1%, Médica 10,5%, Serviço Social 10,5%, Psicologia 10,5%, Odontologia 10,5%, Nutrição 10%. Radiologia 5,3%. 89,5% desses profissionais estão atuando na área e 10,5% não estão atuando. Em síntese, a maioria dos entrevistados concordam que as necessidades de saúde não estão presentes somente em unidades hospitalares ou ambulatoriais, assim como apresentaram interesse em empreender na área de saúde. Foi confirmado a partir das respostas, o entendimento sobre a inserção dos serviços de saúde dentro da cesta de bens e serviços, assim como a conexão entre essas e as necessidades de saúde, empreendedorismo e desenvolvimento regional.
Orbit Determination and Thrust Estimation for Noncooperative Target Using Angle-Only Measurement
Authors: Zhang Zhixun , Shu Leizheng , Zhang Keke , Zhu Zhencai , Zhou Meijiang , Wang Xinwei , Yin Weidong
Published: September 2023

The classical interactive multimodel (IMM) algorithm has some disadvantages in tracking a noncooperative continuous thrust maneuvering spacecraft, such as poor steady-state accuracy, difficult selection of subfilter parameters, and mismatched model jump. To address the abovementioned problems, a variable-dimensional adaptive IMM strong tracking filtering algorithm (VAIMM-STEKF) is proposed to estimate the spacecraft’s position, velocity, and maneuvering acceleration state. VAIMM-STEKF contains 2 models, model 1 and model 2, which correspond to the tracking of the spacecraft in maneuvering and nonmaneuvering situations. Model 1 estimates the position and velocity of the spacecraft to ensure tracking accuracy when no maneuver occurs. Model 2 is a strong tracking filter with an augmented state. The adaptive IMM algorithm adjusts the fixed Markov transfer matrix in real time according to the model output probability. According to the different states of the spacecraft, the corresponding model interactive fusion method, together with the strong tracking filter, is adopted to ensure fast tracking when the spacecraft state changes. This method can also adapt to continuous thrust maneuvering spacecraft with different orders of magnitude. Simulation results show that the position accuracy of VAIMM-STEKF can be improved by approximately 27% and the speed accuracy can be enhanced by approximately 17% under different levels of maneuvering acceleration compared with those of the IMM algorithm. The convergence speed of VAIMM-STEKF is also better than the IMM algorithm.
Using System Dynamics to Understand Transnational Corporate Power in Diet-Related Non-communicable Disease Prevention Policy-Making: A Case Study of South Africa
Authors: Milsom Penelope , Tomoaia-Cotisel Andrada , Smith Richard , Modisenyane Simon Moeketsi , Walls Helen
Published: September 2023

Background: Complex interactions between political economy factors and corporate power are increasingly recognized to prevent transformative policy action on non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention. System science offers promising methods for analysing such causal complexity. This study uses qualitative system dynamics methods to map the political economy of diet-related NCD (DR-NCD) prevention policy-making aiming to better understand the policy inertia observed in this area globally. Methods: We interviewed 25 key policy actors. We analysed the interviews using purposive text analysis (PTA). We developed individual then combined casual loop diagrams to generate a shared model representing the DR-NCD prevention policy-making system. Key variables/linkages identified from the literature were also included in the model. We validated the model in several steps including through stakeholder validation interviews. Results: We identified several inter-linked feedback processes related to political economy factors that may entrench different forms of corporate power (instrumental, structural, and discursive) in DR-NCD prevention policy-making in South Africa over time. We also identified a number of feedback processes that have the potential to limit corporate power in this setting. Conclusion: Using complex system methods can be useful for more deeply understanding DR-NCD policy inertia. It is also useful for identifying potential leverage points within the system which may shift the existing power dynamics to facilitate greater political commitment for healthy, equitable, and sustainable food system transformation.
Therapeutic Effects of Co-administration of Silver Nanoparticles and Vitamin C on Vaginal Infection Caused by Group B Streptococcus
Authors: Mansoori Zhale , Chehri Khosrow , Gharzi Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Background: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a bacterium commonly isolated from the vagina. Silver nanoparticles (SNPs) are potential antibacterial agents, and studies have shown their toxic effects. Vitamin C (VC) is an essential vitamin with a protective role against toxicological conditions. We aimed to the evaluation therapeutic effects of the co-administration of SNPs and VC on vaginal infection caused by GBS in mice models. Methods: Vaginitis model was established by intravaginal inoculation of GBS. The Co-administration of SNPs and VC was used to treat the infections. The antibacterial activity of SNPs was determined by the minimum inhibitory concentration. The toxicity of nanoparticles was measured by MTT assay. The microbial load and estrous cycle of mice during treatment were evaluated. Finally, blood samples and vaginal tissue sections were isolated and analyzed. Results: The results showed that SNPs have excellent effects on GBS, and the MIC was 512 ppm. Cell viability after exposure at 512 ppm of SNPs was 32.11% but after treatment with VC increased viability at 512 ppm of nanoparticles to 65.32%. In mice that received SNPs and VC at the same time, the bacteria were completely removed from the vagina, and estrus cycle returned to normal cycle. Analysis of the prepared blood samples and microscopic examination of the vaginal sections confirmed the results. Conclusion: SNPs have a potential antibacterial effect on GBS. But nanoparticles have toxic effects on mammalian cells. The simultaneous use of VC, as a powerful antioxidant, can completely eliminate this toxic effect of nanoparticles.
Effect of Recommended Dietary Intake versus Higher Doses of Supplemental Zinc on Iron and Copper Deficiency Anemia Among Patients with Chronic Kidney Diseases, A Double-Blinded, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nazari-Taloki Zahra , Salehifar Ebrahim , Makhlough Atieh , Dashti-Khavidaki Simin
Published: September 2023

Background: Complex interplays happen in absorption and function of iron, zinc and copper. Both zinc deficiency and excess may lead to anemia. In Iran, commonly available supplements for chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients contain 25 mg-zinc (Zn). This study compared 25 mg versus 7.5 mg dose of zinc in anemia of CKD patients, the latter dose approximates to recommended dietary intake (RDI) of zinc. Methods: In this double-blinded clinical trial, 51 non-dialysis CKD patients were randomized to continue previous formulation (25 mg-Zn group) or change to a new preparation (7.5 mg-Zn group) for three months. Blood counts and serum iron, zinc and copper status were compared between and within the groups. Results: At the end of the study, serum copper and ceruloplasmin concentrations were significantly higher in 7.5 mg-Zn group compared with those in 25 mg-Zn arm (115.04± 23.05 vs. 102.48±14.98 µg/dL; P= 0.02 and 29.97±7.94 vs. 25.42±4.23 mg/dL; P= 0.01, respectively). Serum zinc levels did not differ between two groups (76.73±15.35 vs. 77.68±18.07 µg/dL for 7.5 mg-Zn and 25 mg-Zn groups, respectively; P= 0.84). After three months, patients in 7.5 mg-Zn group experienced increase in their Hb (11.11±1.17 vs. 10.72±1.03 g/dL; P= 0.04), HCT (35.28± 4.01 vs. 33.96± 3.74%; P= 0.03), MCV (86.30 (81.40-90.82) vs. 86.00 (80.35-88.77) ¦L; P= 0.01) and ferritin (202.60 (79.29-298.97) vs. 129.07 (42.25-225.87) ng/mL; P<0.001) compared to their baseline values. Conclusion: Reducing zinc content to its RDI value in supplement for CKD patients led to increased serum copper and ceruloplasmin concentrations. Moreover, patients who switched to RDI zinc-containing formula experienced a significant rise in blood hemoglobin. hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and ferritin concentration.
Knowledge Management for the Micro Enterprise: A Taxonomy
Authors: Hall Stephen
Published: September 2023

Knowledge Management Systems enhance innovation, increase operational efficiency, and improve decision-making in business organisations. The administrative and resource overheads required to implement and maintain such systems, however, inherently exclude the smallest of firms from reaping these benefits. This paper aims to identify, evaluate, and summarize the distribution of research on knowledge management and supporting systems across business size classifications with a particular focus on micro-enterprises. It also seeks to establish if existing knowledge management models, practices, and systems have invested due consideration in their design to cater for the limited resources typically found in the micro-enterprise. It contributes new insight into the applicability of knowledge management systems to micro-enterprises and stimulates a possible re-think of how such systems can cater for the specific constraints of this prolific business type. This taxonomy provides a thorough analysis of 168 research papers from a total of 10511 papers published in reputable conference proceedings since 2012. It focuses on key knowledge management themes covered, including the size of the enterprise, the adoption challenges, the potential benefits, the technologies used, and the aspects of the knowledge management cycle that are being employed. Furthermore, it draws on this analysis to highlight the appropriateness of existing knowledge management systems to the distinctive risk and opportunity characteristics of the micro-enterprise.
Examining the Impact of Intra-group or Inter-group Social Capital on Innovative Climate in Enterprises of the Innovation Sector
Authors: Bylok Felicjan
Published: September 2023

One of the significant factors that have an impact on the level of innovativeness is that of the intra-group social capital and inter-group social capital. Both of these types of social capital support the innovative climate and may constitute a key attribute in creating new knowledge and innovation, which in turn increases the opportunities of enterprises in terms of market competition. The acceptance of the assumption that social capital has an impact on the creation of the innovative climate in enterprises facilitated the formulation of the research aim, which was to search for answers to the following three research questions: What is the scope of occurrence of the intra-group and inter-group of social capital in enterprises in the innovative sector in Poland? To what extent does the intra-group and inter-group of social capital have an impact on the processes that are favourable to creating knowledge and innovation in enterprises? To what extent does the intra-group and inter-group of social capital have an impact on the creating the innovative climate in enterprises? The assumed goal was executed thanks to the application of the survey method. Empirical research, together with the use of a standardized questionnaire was conducted by means of the CATI technique in 2022. A total of 575 department heads and employees of the innovative sector participated in the research. As a result of the research, significant statistical relations were discovered between the intra-group and inter-group of social capital and the indicators of the innovative climate. Likewise, the positive impact of their attributes on the intra-organizational processes was illustrated, which are favourable towards the creation of knowledge and innovation.