bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Smart eHealth Framework for Personalized Asthma Attack Prediction and Safe Route Recommendation
Authors: Alharbi Eman , Cherif Asma , Nadeem Farrukh
Published: October 2023

Recently, there has been growing interest in using smart eHealth systems to manage asthma. However, limitations still exist in providing smart services and accurate predictions tailored to individual patients’ needs. This study aims to develop an adaptive ubiquitous computing framework that leverages different bio-signals and spatial data to provide personalized asthma attack prediction and safe route recommendations. We proposed a smart eHealth framework consisting of multiple layers that employ telemonitoring application, environmental sensors, and advanced machine-learning algorithms to deliver smart services to the user. The proposed smart eHealth system predicts asthma attacks and uses spatial data to provide a safe route that drives the patient away from any asthma trigger. Additionally, the framework incorporates an adaptation layer that continuously updates the system based on real-time environmental data and daily bio-signals reported by the user. The developed telemonitoring application collected a dataset containing 665 records used to train the prediction models. The testing result demonstrates a remarkable 98% accuracy in predicting asthma attacks with a recall of 96%. The eHealth system was tested online by ten asthma patients, and its accuracy achieved 94% of accuracy and a recall of 95.2% in generating safe routes for asthma patients, ensuring a safer and asthma-trigger-free experience. The test shows that 89% of patients were satisfied with the safer recommended route than their usual one. This research contributes to enhancing the capabilities of smart healthcare systems in managing asthma and improving patient outcomes. The adaptive feature of the proposed eHealth system ensures that the predictions and recommendations remain relevant and personalized to the current conditions and needs of the individual.
Evidence of Potential Organo-Mineral Interactions during the First Stage of Mars Terraforming
Authors: Giannetta Beatrice , Caporale Antonio G. , Olivera de Souza Danilo , Adamo Paola , Zaccone Claudio
Published: October 2023

Future space missions to Mars will depend on the development of bioregenerative life support systems. Mars regolith contains most of the nutrients needed for plant growth, but not organic matter (OM). Although Mars simulants have been deeply characterized and tested as growing media, no data are available about their possible modification occurring during terraforming, including the interaction of exogeneous OM with iron (Fe) oxides, particularly abundant in Mars regolith. The aim of this study was to investigate the mineral transformation and the OM evolution occurring in the early stages of the terraforming process. Potato was grown for 99 days on Mojave Mars Simulant MMS-1, alone (R100) and mixed with a compost 70:30 v:v (R70C30), and on a fluvial sand, alone (S100) and mixed with compost (S70C30), for comparison. Bulk (BK) and potato tubero/rhizo-sphere (RH) soils were fractionated to obtain particulate OM (POM) and mineral-associated OM (MAOM). Bulk samples and corresponding fractions were characterized for total nitrogen and organic carbon (C) and analyzed by Fe K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy. Organic C increased by 10 and 25 times in S70C30 and R70C30, respectively, compared to S100 and R100. Most of the organic C accumulated in the POM fraction of both growing substrates, while its content in the MAOM was 3 times higher in R70C30 than in S70C30. No significant differences between BK and RH were found. Finally, ferrihydrite mediated exogenous OM stabilization in regolith-based substrates, while Fe(III)-OM complexes were detected exclusively in sand-based growing media. Understanding mechanisms and testing potential sustainable practices for creating Mars regolith similar to terrestrial soil will be fundamental to sustain food crop production on Mars.
A Spectroscopy-Based Multi-Analytical Approach for Studies in Conservation: Decorations in the Alexander Palace (Tsarskoye Selo)
Authors: Ricci Marilena , Sebastiani Federico , Becucci Maurizio , Rogozny Mikhail , Parfenov Vadim
Published: October 2023

We studied the painted decorations found during recent restoration work in the Alexander Palace in Tsarskoye Selo. Optical/laser spectroscopic methods were applied to obtain a characterization of the materials, pigments, and binders in use and, possibly, their degradation. We analyzed samples of the original Art Nouveau style decoration that was detached in 2019 during conservation work at the State Office of Emperor Nicholas II. A combination of Raman microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and elemental analysis (obtained from the optical emission following laser plasma formation) allowed us to obtain detailed information on the materials used. The precious pigments of the artist’s green-blue palette and the binder used (drying oil) were identified. A mixture of blue (Prussian blue and ultramarine blue), white (lead white and barium white), and yellow (chrome yellow and zinc yellow) pigments determined the different blue hues used. The use of bronze paint in the dark blue area, which was identified as a brass powder applied with a drying oil as a binder, was also demonstrated.
Bacillus Strains with Catalase Enzyme Improve the Physiology and Growth of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Saeed Syeda Wadia Zainab , Naseer Iqra , Zahir Zahir Ahmad , Hilger Thomas , Shahid Shumila , Iqbal Zafar , Ahmad Maqshoof
Published: October 2023

Catalase can decompose hydrogen peroxide in plants under controlled and stressed conditions. In a stressed environment, an increase in hydrogen peroxide production makes catalase activity a major defense system for plant growth. The current study was conducted to evaluate the catalase activity of the pre-isolated and identified bacterial strains Bacillus aryabhattai (AN30), Bacillus megaterium (AN24), Bacillus megaterium (AN31) and Bacillus megaterium (AN35) and their potential for rice seedling growth promotion. These strains were characterized for quantitative catalase, urease, siderophore and exopolysaccharide production using LB media. Subsequently, the effectiveness of these strains was checked by quantifying the catalase activity in the rhizosphere, roots and shoots of rice seedlings. The secretion of organic and phenolic compounds produced by the tested strains in liquid culture was also investigated. Plant growth parameters were also studied in a growth room trial. Our results showed that the strain AN24 showed the maximum catalase activity (1.36 mol cm−1), urease activity (1.35 mol cm−1) and exopolysaccharide (4.20 µg mL−1) and siderophore (2.32%) production in LB media. All tested strains showed significantly higher catalase activity in soil compared to the control. Among sole applications, strain AN24 showed better results; however, the consortium application of strains AN24 + AN30 + AN35 + AN31 showed the maximum improvement in dry biomass, shoot and root length, and increase in catalase activity of rice seedlings. The results showed that a consortium of these Bacillus strains with catalase activity has greater potential to enhance the antioxidant defense system and growth promotion of rice seedlings. However, further experimentation under natural conditions is required before using these strains as potential bioinoculants for improving rice growth and yield.
The Calibration of Soil Simulation Parameters for Wheat Grown after Rice in the Yangtze River Basin of China
Authors: Chen Xulei , Gu Fengwei , Hu Zhichao , Wu Feng , Luo Weiwen , Guo Kai
Published: October 2023

In recent years, there have been many studies on the calibration of soil simulation parameters; however, there are few soil parameters for wheat grown after rice that have been calibrated in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, and the data from such calibrations remain inaccurate. Therefore, using the soil of Jiangsu as our research object, a soil parameter calibration was carried out based on the EEPA (Edinburgh elastoplastic adhesion) model and using the discrete element software EDEM (2020, DEM-Solutions, Edinburgh, UK). The depression depth measured via a uniaxial compression test and the maximum crushing force measured via an unconfined compression test were taken as indexes. The Plackett–Burman test was used to screen seven influencing factors (recovery coefficient, static friction coefficient, rolling friction coefficient, surface energy, contact plastic deformation ratio, tensile exp, and tangential stiff multiplier). The recovery coefficient and static friction coefficient were analyzed using a central composite test with depression depth as an index. The surface energy, plastic deformation ratio, and tangential stiffness factor were analyzed via a Box–Behnken test, with the maximum crushing force as the index. Taking the measured depression depth of 3.36mm and the maximum destructive power of 210 N as the target, the following final data were obtained—recovery coefficient: 0.322, static friction coefficient: 0.676, rolling friction coefficient: 0.5, surface energy: 17.158, contact plastic deformation ratio: 0.358, tensile exp: 2, and tangential stiff multiplier: 0.8. Finally, the simulation value and the actual value of the parameter group were verified and compared. It was found that the mismatch coefficient R2 of the actual value and the simulation value is 93.509%. The mismatch coefficient R2 between the actual and simulated values of unconfined compressive test is 94.2%. This shows that the curves obtained from the real test and simulation test have a high similarity. This study can provide technical support for the simulation and optimization of growing wheat after rice seeding equipment in the lower reaches of Yangtze River in China.
Sustainable Powder-Based Additive Manufacturing Technology
Authors: Eskandari Sabzi Hossein , Rivera-Díaz-del-Castillo Pedro E. J.
Published: October 2023

A thorough exploration of sustainability in powder-based additive manufacturing (AM) is presented. This review focuses particularly on the design of sustainable alloys for AM. Environmental, economic, and social aspects of sustainability are covered. The importance of life cycle assessment (LCA) in evaluating environmental impact is discussed. LCA tools are used to analyse factors such as energy consumption, waste management, and air pollution, providing a comprehensive view of AM’s environmental footprint. Additionally, the economic dimension of sustainability is addressed through life cycle costing analysis. Production costs, energy use, and waste management are scrutinised, showcasing AM’s potential cost savings. Social life cycle assessment is introduced to assess societal impacts, focusing on worker welfare, community engagement, and overall societal well-being. A forward-looking concept of predicting sustainability before printing, using a product sustainability index, is presented. The approach emphasises environmentally responsible material selection, considering factors such as global warming potential in alloy design. This study offers a holistic approach to designing sustainable alloys and optimising AM processes through a sustainable materials science paradigm to establish the relationship amongst processing, microstructure, properties, sustainability, and performance.
Multicriteria Model for Measuring the Potential of Cultural Identity in the Tourism Development of Sincelejo, Colombia
Authors: León-Santiesteban Martín , Mendez-Prada Martha Cecilia , Cardona-Arce Yolanda Patricia , Guerrero-Mosquera Nelly
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this article is to present a multi-criteria model designed to evaluate the potential of Sincelejo’s cultural identity in tourism development. A descriptive quantitative methodology was used, which included a survey of 211 participants. A decision support method was applied using the weighted additive sum approach and following the multi-attribute method. From the information gathered, the elements of cultural identity shared by most of the criteria were identified, highlighting the gastronomic, social, and cultural traditions and customs of the region, the results of which allowed a composite indicator to be designed to evaluate the tourism potential of cultural identity in the area. This indicator takes into account the idea that the authenticity and cultural uniqueness of a city or region can be a key factor in attracting tourists and providing them with enriching and memorable experiences, promoting the preservation of cultural heritage, environmental protection, and improvement in the quality of life of residents in the search for sustainable tourism development.
Analysis of the Relationship between the Expectations of Local Residents for the Women’s Professional Volleyball Team and Local Image, Social Overhead Capital Perception, and Local Attachment
Authors: Kim Hu-Nyun , Lim Seung-Jae , Lim Sun-Young
Published: October 2023

Establishing a new sports club in the local community is an important factor that can enhance the local image, develop a social infrastructure due to tourist visits, and make residents feel attached to their community. Accordingly, this study examines the relationship between local image, social overhead capital (SOC) recognition, local attachment, and the founding effects of a new women’s professional volleyball team. We analyzed 377 questionnaires using frequency analysis, correlation analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. The findings reveal that establishing a local women’s professional volleyball team has a statistically non-significant economic expectation effect on the local image and statistically significant cultural and public relations expectation effects on the local image, SOC perception, and local attachment. This results from an investigation into the effectiveness of the AI Peppers on the expected effects of establishing a local professional sports team. In conclusion, creating a local professional sports team can impact the expected cultural promotion effect, e.g., expanding the local community infrastructure, attracting tourists and spectators, and strengthening attachment to residents. Furthermore, it can be presented as an efficient alternative to solve the problems of the professional sports industry centered in metropolitan regions.
Development of Biodegradable Alginate-Based Films with Bioactive Properties and Optimal Structural Characteristics with Incorporation of Protein Hydrolysates
Authors: Zinina Oksana , Merenkova Svetlana , Galimov Damir
Published: October 2023

Alginate is widely used in the food industry due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and non-toxicity. Protein hydrolysates possess properties important for forming the mechanical characteristics, protective, and barrier properties of the films. The aim of the research was to develop biodegradable alginate-based films with bioactive properties and the optimal structural characteristics when protein hydrolysates were incorporated. The microstructure of the cross-sections of films with 0.5 and 1.0% protein hydrolysates was characterized by smoother and homogeneous surfaces, which indicated the compatibility of sodium alginate and protein hydrolysate. The addition of protein hydrolysate significantly increased the thickness of the film by 0.06 mm and reduced the solubility by 49.4% (p < 0.05). The results showed the high biodegradability of alginate-based films after 2 weeks of storage. With the introduction of protein hydrolysate, changes occurred in the FTIR patterns due to the interaction between the hydroxyl groups of peptides and the alginate, and, consequently, the thermal stability of the alginate films increased. The alginate films with PH positively affected the storage capacity of sweet cherry berries, both at room temperature and under refrigeration conditions. The alginate-based films with protein hydrolysate have improved properties and can serve as an alternative to polypropylene packaging materials.
A Numerical Study on the Smoke Dispersion and Temperature Distribution of a Ship Engine Room Fire Based on OpenFOAM
Authors: Zhao Yuechao , Zhao Haobo , Miao Zeya , Ai Dihao , Wang Qifei
Published: October 2023

To further study the smoke dispersion and the temperature distribution in ship engine room fires, the fire dynamics solver buoyantReactingFOAM in the software OpenFOAM-10 is used to conduct a numerical simulation study on a pool fire caused by fuel oil leakage in a ship engine room. The applicability of this solver in simulating ship-engine-room-scale fires is validated by comparing it with experimental data. The impact of the mechanical ventilation, fire area, and fire position on the smoke dispersion and the temperature distribution in the ship engine room during the fire are considered in the simulation study, with a focus on the control room and the escape exit. The simulation results of buoyantReactingFOAM agree well with the experimental data. The simulated results of the case study show that for both in the control room and near the escape exit, among the factors of fire position, fire area, and the ventilation situation, the fire position affects the temperature distribution and the smoke dispersion most heavily, followed by the fire area and then the ventilation situation, which has the least influence on them. But, compared to the control room, the influence degree of the ventilation air velocity in the escape exit is larger than that in the control room. With an increase in the fire area, the spread rate of high temperature and high smoke concentration increases. With an increase in the ventilation air velocity, the aggregation degree of smoke and temperature decreases, but its decreasing range is very small when the ventilation air velocity is larger than 2 m/s.
Optimization of the Relay Coil Compensation Capacitor for the Three-Coil Wireless Power Transmission System
Authors: Zhou Ke , Xiao Jing , Zhuo Haoze , Mo Yuhong , Zhang Dongdong , Du Pengcheng
Published: October 2023

The wireless power transmission (WPT) system, which eliminates the limitation of physical connection and improves the convenience of power transmission, has gradually become a research focus in recent years. However, in the current three-coil WPT system, the power repeater is composed of a coupling coil and a compensation capacitor, and its tuning conditions will affect the power transmission ability of the WPT system. However, the exact impact of compensation capacitor is not clear, which leads to the design of power repeaters being based on experience or trial and error methods, making it difficult to achieve the optimization of the WPT system. Therefore, this paper takes transmission power and transmission efficiency as optimization objectives and obtains the optimal relay coil compensation capacitor model of the three-coil WPT system. The result found that the transmission efficiency of the three-coil WPT system after optimizing the compensation capacitor is 3% higher than before, and the anti-migration ability is enhanced. Meanwhile, in view of the dynamic changes in load and mutual inductance that may occur during the use of the three-coil WPT system, a compensation capacitor design and a relay coil compensation capacitor circuit are proposed, respectively, and the parameter setting scheme of the circuit is proposed. The innovative scheme proposed in this paper can effectively improve the transmission efficiency and stability of the three-coil WPT system.
Sustainable Farmer Development for Agri-Food Supply Chains in Developing Countries
Authors: De Silva Leeza , Jayamaha Nihal , Garnevska Elena
Published: October 2023

Improving the supplier’s capabilities and relationships with the buyer to improve triple-bottom-line outcomes for multiple actors in the supply chain (including the suppliers and buyers) is the very purpose of sustainable supplier development. We apply the concept of sustainable supplier development in an agri-food context in a developing economy. The study aims to create a theoretical framework that explains how initiatives by buyers (often processors in the agri-food industry) to develop farmers can result in sustainable farmer performance. Collectively, the propositions derived by us via a literature synthesis propose that farmer development leads to farmer capability development and improved relationships (with the buyer), enabling the farmer to achieve sustainable performance (i.e., performance in economic, social, and environmental domains). The importance of the study from a theory building perspective is that the study attempts to reconcile the supply chain management literature on supplier development in tangible goods manufacturing with the agribusiness literature in developing economies whether or not the farmer occupies the bottom of the income pyramid. The study is also important to academia and policymakers because it acts as a forerunner for the further development of the theoretical model and its testing with a large sample of data to interpret what the results imply from practical and theoretical standpoints.
Environmental and Agro-Economic Sustainability of Olive Orchards Irrigated with Reclaimed Water under Deficit Irrigation
Authors: Vanella Daniela , Consoli Simona , Continella Alberto , Chinnici Gaetano , Milani Mirco , Cirelli Giuseppe Luigi , D’Amico Mario , Maesano Giulia , Gentile Alessandra , La Spada Paolo , Scollo Francesco , Modica Giulia , Siracusa Laura , Longo-Minnolo Giuseppe , Barbagallo Salvatore
Published: October 2023

Increasing the economic and environmental sustainability of irrigated agriculture is a vital challenge for the Mediterranean crop production sector. This study explores the effects of the adoption of reclaimed water (RW) as source of irrigation in conjunction with the application of deficit irrigation strategies in an olive orchard (different genotypes) located within the “Valle dei Margi” farmhouse (Eastern Sicily). Specifically, the RW was obtained in situ by treating the wastewater coming from the farmhouse throughout a nature-based treatment wetland system (TW). The effects of RW on crop water status (CWS) was assessed by conducting plant-based measurements (i.e., leaf water potential, Ψ; and leaves’ relative water content, RWC) and determining satellite-based biophysical indicators. An economic and environmental evaluation of the proposed sustainable irrigation practices was carried out using the life cycle assessment (LCA) approach. The RW quality showed high variability due to fluctuations in the number of customers at the farmhouse during the COVID-19 pandemic period. A strong impact on the variation in Ψ was observed among the olive orchard under the different water regimes, evidencing how CWS performances are conditioned by the genotype. However, no differences in leaves’ RWC and in satellite-based biophysical indicators were detected. Finally, the results of the LCA analysis underlined how the use of RW may permit us to obtain important economic and environmental gains, representing an added value for olive growing for operating in accordance to more sustainable development models.
Features and Sustainable Design of Firefighting Safety Footwear for Fire Extinguishing and Rescue Operations
Authors: Tomaskova Marianna , Krajňák Jozef
Published: October 2023

Firefighters are regularly exposed to risk of injuries as a result of their intervention activities connected with hazards from fire and explosion, as well as due to carrying heavy personal working equipment and injured victims from accidents. Another hazardous factor is working under unfavorable weather conditions and also moving on slippery or bumpy surfaces. Employers provide personal protective work equipment to employees if a hazard cannot be eliminated or reduced by technical means, such as means of collective protection or methods and forms of work organization. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should provide effective protection against existing and foreseeable hazards and should not in itself create a greater risk. It should be adapted to the existing and predictable working conditions and working environment at the work site, meet the criteria of ergonomics and the health condition of an employee as well as be suitable and adapted to the wearer’s body so that, if possible, there is no risk of harm to the employee’s health. The aim of this Special Issue is to explore the limits of sustainable implementation of additive technologies within current manufacturing practices and current requirements for personal protective equipment for firefighters. More precisely, the goal of this special article is to show new ideas in firefighting footwear such as a quick donning and doffing system as well as various other improvements and sustainable design of firefighting footwear. The aim is to present new ideas and concepts, the latest advances, and technical tools supporting the sustainable use of protective firefighting footwear. Special attention will be paid to standards that ensure the highest standard and quality.
Riyadh: Evolving to Become as One of the MENA Region’s Key Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
Authors: Roomi Muhammad Azam , Coduras Alicia , Saiz-Alvarez José Manuel
Published: October 2023

Riyadh’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is one of the most important drivers of entrepreneurship and innovation in the MENA region, as Saudi Arabia aims to achieve economic diversification within its industry, and thus reduce its dependence on oil. This paper analyzes how Riyadh’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is achieving these goals and explores the differences between entrepreneurs and owner-managers operating in the Riyadh ecosystem to identify their strengths and weaknesses in guiding Saudi policymakers’ decision-making. Using GEM data for Saudi Arabia and analyzing the ten pillars (connectivity, leadership, knowledge, talent, finance, culture, formal institutions, services and intermediaries, physical infrastructure, and demand) of the Stem model, the authors applied ANOVA tests for the quantitative variables and Chi-squared tests for the qualitative variables and rescaled the results to 0–10-point scales for ease of interpretation. We found that among the ten pillars studied, there were four that have improved the most in the Riyadh entrepreneurial ecosystem: two systemic (networks, talent) and two environmental (physical infrastructure and formal institutions), while it was in the systemic pillars (leadership, financing, and knowledge) where the least progress has been made in the period 2019–2022.
Contrasts in Sustainability between Hub-Based and Point-to-Point Airline Networks
Authors: O’Kelly Morton E. , Park Yongha
Published: October 2023

Airline hubs are often defined as nodes with a high degree of connectivity. Connectivity is measured by the “degree” of the node. The degree distribution of hub networks tends to have a convex shape (curved towards the origin), while point-to-point networks have a higher number of high-degree nodes and a concave shape. This study aims to classify airline networks based on their hub orientation, expanding our understanding of network differences. The analysis in this paper involves fitting a power-law distribution, determining the range of degree distribution, and calculating the distribution of betweenness. These analyses provide insight into the classification of each airline. Each measurement helps to clarify the ambiguity in other scores. The goal is to establish a small set of rules that can clearly distinguish between the main types of networks. The classification includes four types of networks: One-hub, P2P (point-to-point), Multi-hub, and Complex networks. There is a well-recognized empirical distinction between hub networks, which have a few places with large betweenness, and point-to-point cases, which have a larger number of places with moderate betweenness. The significance of these results in terms of geographic importance is demonstrated by sorting 284 different airline networks based on these dimensions. These findings are expected to provide valuable information about the resilience and recovery of a network, as networks with many long-range connections are particularly vulnerable to a decrease in traffic. Additionally, these results have implications for the ability of networks to recover from a downturn.
Effect of Pre-Treatments on the Qualities of Banana Dried by Two Different Drying Methods
Authors: Abd El-Wahhab Gomaa G. , Sayed Hassan A. A. , Abdelhamid Mahmoud A. , Zaghlool Ayman , Nasr Ali , Nagib Ashraf , Bourouah Mohamed , Abd-ElGawad Ahmed M. , Rashad Younes M. , Hafez Mohamed , Taha Ibrahim M.
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the impact of various pre-drying treatments and drying methods on the physicochemical, phytochemical, and sensorial quality of dried bananas. To achieve this goal, four pretreatment solutions were used before drying to enhance the quality characteristics of banana slices: citric acid 1% and ascorbic acid 1%, sucrose 10%, sodium bisulphate 0.5%, and lemon juice 5% and acetic acid 0.5%. Two drying methods were applied, sun drying (SD) and tunnel drying (TD). The dried slices were evaluated for moisture, total acidity, water activity (aw), browning index, rehydration ratio (RR), reducing sugar, ascorbic acid, total phenol, and DPPH %, as well as sensory attributes (color, odor, taste, texture, and overall acceptability). The results showed that the retention of acid content, ascorbic acid, total phenolics, and DPPH in slice samples dried in TD was higher than that in SD. The browning index values in the TD samples were lower than those in the SD samples. Moreover, the TD samples showed a higher RR than the SD samples. It is noted that the pretreatment solutions used have an important role in improving the final quality characteristics of dried banana slices. The results of the sensory evaluation revealed a significant difference in the degrees of color and texture for the slices pretreated with sodium bisulphate. Meanwhile, the rates of taste and odor were significantly higher for the sucrose-pretreated slices. TD can improve the drying kinetics, shorten the drying time, and maintain the quality of the dried slices.
Geometrical Parcel Locker Network Design with Consideration of Users’ Preferences as a Solution for Sustainable Last Mile Delivery
Authors: Kurowski Mateusz , Sobolewski Marek , Koszorek Maciej
Published: October 2023

Last mile logistics accounts for a small part of deliveries geographically, but generates disproportionately high costs, energy consumption, and pollutant emissions. Parcel lockers are a solution with great potential to make deliveries more sustainable. In order to use this potential, the network should be designed in such a way that users are willing to collect parcels on foot or by bicycle and to use a given number of parcel lockers to cover as much area as possible. This area is still unexplored. The purpose of this article is to present a geometric method for designing a network of parcel lockers taking into account user preferences. Authors have used methods such as literature studies, survey, and statistical analysis. The analysis conducted showed that using a triangular network allows for greater coverage than a square one with the same number of parcel lockers. The median declared distance to allow regular parcel collection by walking or cycling was 500 m. Characteristics such as gender, age, education, and type of residence did not affect this parameter. Implementing data on customer preferences into the design of a parcel locker network and using a triangular network of parcel lockers allows for deliveries to be more sustainable.
Towards BIM-Based Sustainable Structural Design Optimization: A Systematic Review and Industry Perspective
Authors: Afzal Muhammad , Li Rita Yi Man , Ayyub Muhammad Faisal , Shoaib Muhammad , Bilal Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Structural design optimization (SDO) plays a pivotal role in enhancing various aspects of construction projects, including design quality, cost efficiency, safety, and structural reliability. Recent endeavors in academia and industry have sought to harness the potential of building information modeling (BIM) and optimization algorithms to optimize SDO and improve design outcomes. This review paper aims to synthesize these efforts, shedding light on how SDO contributes to project coordination. Furthermore, the integration of sustainability considerations and the application of innovative technologies and optimization algorithms in SDO necessitate more interactive early stage collaboration among project stakeholders. This study offers a comprehensive exploration of contemporary research in integrated SDO employing BIM and optimization algorithms. It commences with an exploratory investigation, employing both qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques following the PRISMA systematic review methodology. Subsequently, an open-ended opinion survey was conducted among construction industry professionals in Europe. This survey yields valuable insights into the coordination challenges and potential solutions arising from technological shifts and interoperability concerns associated with the widespread implementation of SDO. These preliminary steps of systematic review and industry survey furnish a robust foundation of knowledge, enabling the proposal of an intelligent framework for automating early stage sustainable structural design optimization (ESSDO) within the construction sector. The ESSDO framework addresses the challenges of fragmented collaboration between architects and structural engineers. This proposed framework seamlessly integrates with the BIM platform, i.e., Autodesk Revit for architects. It extracts crucial architectural data and transfers it to the structural design and analysis platform, i.e., Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis (RSA), for structural engineers via the visual programming tool Dynamo. Once the optimization occurs, optimal outcomes are visualized within BIM environments. This visualization elevates interactive collaborations between architects and engineers, facilitating automation throughout the workflow and smoother information exchange.
Transport Barriers in Geophysical Flows: A Review
Authors: Prants Sergey
Published: October 2023

In the Lagrangian approach, the transport processes in the ocean and atmosphere are studied by tracking water or air parcels, each of which may carry different tracers. In the ocean, they are salt, nutrients, heat, and particulate matter, such as plankters, oil, radionuclides, and microplastics. In the atmosphere, the tracers are water vapor, ozone, and various chemicals. The observation and simulation reveal highly complex patterns of advection of tracers in turbulent-like geophysical flows. Transport barriers are material surfaces across which the transport is minimal. They can be classified into elliptic, parabolic, and hyperbolic barriers. Different diagnostics in detecting transport barriers and the analysis of their role in the dynamics of oceanic and atmospheric flows are reviewed. We discuss the mathematical tools, borrowed from dynamical systems theory, for detecting transport barriers in simple kinematic and dynamic models of vortical and jet-like flows. We show how the ideas and methods, developed for simple model flows, can be successfully applied for studying the role of barriers in oceanic and atmospheric flows. Special attention is placed on the significance of transport barriers in important practical issues: anthropogenic and natural pollution, advection of plankton, cross-shelf exchange, and propagation of upwelling fronts in coastal zones.
Exploring Fuzzy Triple Controlled Metric Spaces: Applications in Integral Equations
Authors: Azmi Fatima M.
Published: October 2023

In this article, we delve into the study of fuzzy triple controlled metric spaces, investigating their properties and presenting a range of illustrative examples. We emphasize the broader applicability of this concept in comparison to fuzzy rectangular metric spaces and fuzzy rectangular b-metric spaces. By introducing the novel concept of (α-ψ)-fuzzy contractive mappings, we derive fixed point results specifically designed for complete fuzzy triple controlled metric spaces. Our theorems extend and enrich previous findings in this field. Additionally, we demonstrate the practical significance of our study by applying our findings to the solution of an integral equation and providing an example of its application. Furthermore, we propose potential avenues for future research endeavors.
Study on the Influence of Thermodynamic Effects on the Characteristics of Liquid Nitrogen Cavitating Flow around Hydrofoils
Authors: Fu Yuzhuang , Gao Bo , Ni Dan , Zhang Wenbin , Fu Yanxia
Published: October 2023

Cryogenic cavitation exhibits complexities primarily represented by the coupled interactions of thermodynamic effects, vortices, and cavities during the cavitation process. To further investigate this coupling mechanism, this study employed the DDES turbulence model and Sauer–Schnerr cavitation model to perform unsteady numerical simulations of liquid nitrogen cavitation flow around the NACA0015 Hydrofoil. Numerical validation of the model utilized a symmetrical Hord hydrofoil. The results reveal that the upstream development of the recirculation flow under inverse pressure gradients is the fundamental cause of the detachment in the primary cavitation region. At a cavitation number of 0.616, thermodynamic effects noticeably suppress the formation of cavities and alter the range of adverse pressure gradients, consequently influencing the detachment behavior in the primary cavitation region.
The Role of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) in the Detection of Neoplastic Portal Vein Thrombosis in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Cerrito Lucia , Ainora Maria Elena , Di Francesco Silvino , Galasso Linda , Gasbarrini Antonio , Zocco Maria Assunta
Published: October 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the principal primary liver cancer and one of the most frequent malignant tumors worldwide in patients with chronic liver disease. When diagnosed at an advanced stage, it is often associated with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT), which heavily affects patients’ prognosis. Imaging evaluation is crucial in PVTT detection and staging; computed tomography and magnetic resonance are the principal diagnostic tools. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a non-invasive and easily repeatable method that can also be used in patients with impaired renal function. It represents an important means for the identification of PVTT, particularly differentiating neoplastic and non-neoplastic thrombosis through the analysis of ultrasound enhancement characteristics of the thrombosis (arterial hyperenhancement and portal washout), thus allowing more refined disease staging, appropriate treatment planning, and response evaluation, along with prognosis assessment.
Effects of Chronic Hydrocodone Exposure and Ceftriaxone on the Expression of Astrocytic Glutamate Transporters in Mesocorticolimbic Brain Regions of C57/BL Mice
Authors: Wong Woonyen , Sari Youssef
Published: October 2023

Exposure to opioids can lead to the alteration of several neurotransmitters. Among these neurotransmitters, glutamate is thought to be involved in opioid dependence. Glutamate neurotransmission is mainly regulated by astrocytic glutamate transporters such as glutamate transporter 1 (GLT-1) and cystine/glutamate antiporter (xCT). Our laboratory has shown that exposure to lower doses of hydrocodone reduced the expression of xCT in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the hippocampus. In the present study, we investigated the effects of chronic exposure to hydrocodone, and tested ceftriaxone as a GLT-1 upregulator in mesocorticolimbic brain regions such as the NAc, the amygdala (AMY), and the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC). Eight-week-old male mice were divided into three groups: (1) the saline vehicle control group; (2) the hydrocodone group; and (3) the hydrocodone + ceftriaxone group. Mice were injected with hydrocodone (10 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline for 14 days. On day seven, the hydrocodone/ceftriaxone group was injected with ceftriaxone (200 mg/kg, i.p.) for last seven days. Chronic exposure to hydrocodone reduced the expression of GLT-1, xCT, protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), and c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) in NAc, AMY, and dmPFC. However, hydrocodone exposure increased the expression of G-protein-coupled metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR5) in the NAc, AMY, and dmPFC. Importantly, ceftriaxone treatment normalized the expression of mGluR5, GLT-1, and xCT in all these brain regions, except for xCT in the AMY. Importantly, ceftriaxone treatment attenuated hydrocodone-induced downregulation of signaling pathways such as AKT, ERK, and JNK expression in the NAc, AMY, and dmPFC. These findings demonstrate that ceftriaxone has potential therapeutic effects in reversing hydrocodone-induced downregulation of GLT-1 and xCT in selected reward brain regions, and this might be mediated through the downstream kinase signaling pathways such as AKT, ERK, and JNK.
Effectiveness of Tap Water in Reducing the Generation of Ultrafine Wear Particles from the Wheel-Rail Contact by Eliminating the Water Vapor Effect
Authors: Lee HyunWook
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to assess the impact of tap water application on reducing the generation of ultrafine particles from the wheel-rail contact using a twin-disk rig under dry and wet conditions, with train velocities of 45 and 80 km/h. A small amount of 0.3 L/min tap water was applied at the wheel-rail contact, and a diffusion dryer was used to eliminate water vapor. The Fast Mobility Particle Sizer measured the number concentration (NC) of nano-sized wear particles in the range of 6 to 560 nm. The tap water application method effectively reduced the NC of ultrafine and fine particles by 67–72% and 86–88%, respectively. Positive reduction rates were observed for all diameters at 45 km/h and for most diameters, except for approximately 70 nm and 80 nm, at 80 km/h. Even with a small amount of water, this approach successfully decreased nano-sized wear particle generation. However, the potential influence of mineral crystals in tap water on NC requires further investigation. Overall, this method shows promise for enhancing air quality and public health by mitigating nano-sized wear particle generation in subway systems.
Botulinum Neurotoxins: From Toxin to Medicine
Authors: Santamato Andrea
Published: October 2023

Ancient scientific manuscripts indicate that Dr [...]
Uptake of Oral HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Associated Factors among Female Sex Workers in Tanga, Tanzania
Authors: Martin Veronica O. , Tesha Novatus A. , Sunguya Bruno F.
Published: October 2023

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) prevents HIV infection among female sex workers (FSW). WHO recommends the use of Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for use in oral PrEP regimens (TDF). Emtricitabine (FTC) 200 mg/Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) 300 mg (Truvada) daily is the approved PrEP regimen in Tanzania. Evidence is limited on oral PrEP uptake and its associated factors in countries with a high burden of HIV, such as Tanzania. This study aimed to examine the uptake of oral PrEP and its associated factors among FSW in the Tanga region of Tanzania. This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 428 FSW. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and analysed using STATA version 17 and RDSAT. Logistic regression was used to examine the associations of independent factors and PrEP uptake among study participants. About 55% of the recruited FSW used oral PrEP. FSW with three or more children were 2.41 times more likely to take oral PrEP (AOR 2.41, 95% CI: 1.08–4.25, p < 0.05). Moreover, those with a positive attitude were more likely to use oral PrEP (AOR 2.8, 95% CI: 1.88–4.17, p < 0.05). Poor belief was a barrier to PrEP use, and side effects of the drugs were a reason for the discontinuation of PrEP services. Most of the participants preferred PrEP services to be provided in the community. Oral PrEP uptake was 55%. Efforts to scale up PrEP for FSW should address misconceptions regarding PrEP, PrEP sensitization, and improving access through community-based intervention.
Development of Polyclonal Antibodies and a Serological-Based Reverse-Transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (S-RT-LAMP) Assay for Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus Detection in Both Rice and Small Brown Planthopper
Authors: Hua Yanhong , Feng Chenwei , Gu Tianxiao , Chen Haoyu , Liu Duxuan , Xu Kai , Zhang Kun
Published: October 2023

Rice black-streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV) infects rice and maize, and seriously affects rice yields in main rice-producing areas. It can be transmitted via small brown planthopper (SBPH: Laodelphax striatellus Fallén). To more rapidly, sensitively, and highly throughput diagnose RBSDV in the wild condition, we first purified the recombinant His-CPRBSDV protein, and prepared the polyclonal antibodies against the His-CPRBSDV protein (PAb-CPRBSDV). Based on the PAb-CPRBSDV, we developed a series of serological detections, such as Western blot, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and a dot immunoblotting assay (DIBA). Furthermore, we developed a serological-based reverse-transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay (S-RT-LAMP) that could accurately detect RBSDV in the wild. Briefly, the viral genomic dsRNA together with viral CP were precipitated by co-immunoprecipitation using the PAb-CPRBSDV, then the binding RNAs were crudely isolated and used for RT-LAMP diagnosis. Using the prepared PAb-CPRBSDV, four serology-based detection methods were established to specifically detect RBSDV-infected rice plants or SBPHs in the wild. The method of S-RT-LAMP has also been developed to specifically, high-throughput, and likely detect RBSDV in rice seedlings and SBPHs simultaneously. The antiserum prepared here laid the foundation for the rapid and efficient detection of RBSDV-infected field samples, which will benefit for determination of the virulence rate of the transmission vector SBPH and outbreak and epidemic prediction of RBSDV in a rice production area.