bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Vitamin C on Tendinopathy Recovery: A Scoping Review
Authors: Noriega-González David C. , Drobnic Franchek , Caballero-García Alberto , Roche Enrique , Perez-Valdecantos Daniel , Córdova Alfredo
Published: June 2022

Tendinopathies represent 30–50% of all sports injuries. The tendon response is influenced by the load (volume, intensity, and frequency) that the tendon support, resulting in irritability and pain, among others. The main molecular component of tendons is collagen I (60–85%). The rest consist of glycosaminoglycans-proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and other collagen subtypes. This study’s aim was to critically evaluate the efficacy of vitamin C supplementation in the treatment of tendinopathies. At the same time, the study aims to determine the optimal conditions (dose and time) for vitamin C supplementation. A structured search was carried out in the SCOPUS, Medline (PubMed), and Web of Science (WOS) databases. The inclusion criteria took into account studies describing optimal tendon recovery when using vitamin C alone or in combination with other compounds. The study design was considered, including randomized, double-blind controlled, and parallel designs in animal models or humans. The main outcome is that vitamin C supplementation is potentially useful as a therapeutic approach for tendinopathy recovery. Vitamin C supplementation, alone or in combination with other products, increases collagen synthesis with a consequent improvement in the patient’s condition. On the other hand, vitamin C deficiency is mainly associated with a decrease in procollagen synthesis and reduced hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues, hindering the tendon repair process.
Doxorubicin-Loaded Lipid Nanoparticles Coated with Calcium Phosphate as a Potential Tool in Human and Canine Osteosarcoma Therapy
Authors: Chirio Daniela , Sapino Simona , Chindamo Giulia , Peira Elena , Vercelli Cristina , Riganti Chiara , Manzoli Maela , Gambino Graziana , Re Giovanni , Gallarate Marina
Published: June 2022

Osteosarcoma (OSA) is the most frequently diagnosed primary malignant bone tumor in humans and dogs. In both species, standard chemotherapy can be limited by multidrug resistance of neoplastic cells, which prevents intracellular accumulation of cytotoxic drugs, resulting in chemotherapy failure. In this study, a lipophilic ester of doxorubicin (C12DOXO) was loaded into nanoparticles (NPs) using the “cold microemulsion dilution” method. The resulting NPs were then coated with calcium phosphate (CaP) in two different ways to have calcium or phosphate ions externally exposed on the surface. These systems were characterized by determining mean diameter, zeta potential, and drug entrapment efficiency; afterward, they were tested on human and canine OSA cells to study the role that the coating might play in increasing both drug uptake into tumor cells and cytotoxicity. Mean diameter of the developed NPs was in the 200–300 nm range, zeta potential depended on the coating type, and C12DOXO entrapment efficiency was in the 60–75% range. Results of studies on human and canine OSA cells were very similar and showed an increase in drug uptake and cytotoxicity for CaP-coated NPs, especially when calcium ions were externally exposed. Therefore, applications in both human and veterinary medicine can be planned in the near future.
Sensing by Dynamics of Lasers with External Optical Feedback: A Review
Authors: Liu Bin , Jiang Yangfan , Ji Haining
Published: June 2022

External optical feedback (EOF) has great impacts on the properties of lasers. It influences the stable operation of lasers. However, various applications based on lasers with EOF have been developed. One typical example is self-mixing interferometry technology, where modulated steady-state laser intensity is utilized for sensing and measurement. Other works show that laser dynamics can also be used for sensing, and the laser in this case is more sensitive to EOF. This paper reviews the sensing technology that uses the dynamics of lasers with EOF. We firstly introduce the basic operating principles of a laser with EOF and discuss the noise properties of and intensity modification in lasers induced by EOF. Then, sensing applications using laser dynamics are categorized and presented, including sensing by frequency-shifted optical feedback, relaxation oscillation frequency, and dynamics with self-mixing interferometry signals and laser optical chaos. Lastly, we present an analysis of the transient response waveform and spectrum of a laser with EOF, showing its potential for sensing.
Geraniol as a Potential Stimulant for Improving Anthocyanin Accumulation in Grape Berry Skin through ABA Membrane Transport
Authors: Mikami Norika , Konya Mayu , Enoki Shinichi , Suzuki Shunji
Published: June 2022

Climate change, particularly warmer temperature, has resulted in reduced anthocyanin accumulation in grape berry skin. Because anthocyanin is a crucial determinant of red wine quality, viticulturists need to devise a solution for mitigating the poor coloration of red/black grape berry skin under elevated temperature conditions. In this study, we investigated the effects of geraniol on anthocyanin accumulation in grape berry skins of field-grown grapevines and elucidated the molecular mechanisms of the geraniol-triggered anthocyanin accumulation. Geraniol-treated bunches showed enhanced anthocyanin accumulation in berry skins at harvest (50 days after treatment). Geraniol treatment upregulated the transcription of MybA1 and UFGT, which encode the key factors in anthocyanin biosynthesis, in berry skins. Geraniol treatment also improved anthocyanin accumulation in grape cultured cells. We isolated grape ATP-binding cassette transporter G family protein VvABCG40, encoding abscisic acid (ABA) membrane transporter, from geraniol-treated grape cultured cells. VvABCG40 transcription was upregulated in berry skins 40 days after treatment. Geraniol treatment also upregulated the transcription of VvPP2C24, which encodes ABA-responsible type 2C protein phosphatases, in berry skins, but not the transcription of VvNCED1, which encodes a key enzyme in ABA biosynthesis. Taken together, geraniol-triggered anthocyanin accumulation in berry skins is promoted by ABA membrane transport and not by ABA biosynthesis, and geraniol treatment of field-grown grape bunches may contribute to alleviating the poor coloration of berry skin as a novel technique in viticulture.
Design and Analysis of Solid Rocket Composite Motor Case Connector Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Zhu Lvtao , Wang Jiayi , Shen Wei , Chen Lifeng , Zhu Chengyan
Published: June 2022

The connector is an essential component in the solid rocket motor case (SRMC), and its weight and performance can directly affect the blasting performance of SRMC. Considering the lightweight design of these structures, fiber-reinforced composite materials are used for the major components. In this study, the finite element analysis of the SRMC connector was performed. The lay-up design and structure optimum design of the connector were studied. Furthermore, the strain distribution on the composite body was compared with experimental measurements. The results demonstrate that the calculated value of the final preferred solution was within the allowable range, and at least 31% weight loss was achieved, suggesting that the performance of the optimum design was optimized. The comparison between the finite element calculation and the test results suggests that the design was within the allowable range and reasonable.
Partial Replacement of Municipal Incinerated Bottom Ash and PET Pellets as Fine Aggregate in Cement Mortars
Authors: Phutthimethakul Lalitsuda , Supakata Nuta
Published: June 2022

The objective of this study was to examine the optimal mixing ratio of municipal incinerated bottom ash (MIBA) and PET pellets used as a partial replacement of fine aggregates in the manufacture of cement mortars. As a partial replacement for sand, 15 mortar specimens were prepared by mixing 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% municipal incinerated bottom ash (MIBA) (A) and 0%, 10%, and 20% PET pellets (P) in 5 cm × 5 cm × 5 cm cube molds. The cement/aggregate ratio was 1:3, and the water/cement ratio was 0.5 for all specimens. The results showed that the compressive strength of cement mortars decreased when increasing the amount of MIBA and PET pellets. The mortar specimens with 10% PET pellets achieved the highest compressive strength (49.53 MPa), whereas the mortar specimens with 40% MIBA and 20% PET pellets achieved the lowest compressive strength (24.44 MPa). Based on this finding, replacing 10% and 20% sand in cement mortar with only MIBA or only PET pellets could result in compressive strengths ranging from 46.00 MPa to 49.53 MPa.
Optimal Design of Wood/Rice Husk-Waste-Filled PLA Biocomposites Using Integrated CRITIC–MABAC-Based Decision-Making Algorithm
Authors: Singh Tej , Pattnaik Punyasloka , Aherwar Amit , Ranakoti Lalit , Dogossy Gábor , Lendvai László
Published: June 2022

Based on the criteria importance through inter-criteria correlation (CRITIC) and the multi-attributive border approximation area comparison (MABAC), a decision-making algorithm was developed to select the optimal biocomposite material according to several conflicting attributes. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA)-based binary biocomposites containing wood waste and ternary biocomposites containing wood waste/rice husk with an overall additive content of 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 wt.% were manufactured and evaluated for physicomechanical and wear properties. For the algorithm, the following performance attributes were considered through testing: the evaluated physical (density, water absorption), mechanical (tensile, flexural, compressive and impact) and sliding wear properties. The water absorption and strength properties were found to be the highest for unfilled PLA, while modulus performance remained the highest for 10 wt.% rice husk/wood-waste-added PLA biocomposites. The density of PLA biocomposites increased as rice husk increased, while it decreased as wood waste increased. The lowest and highest density values were recorded for 10 wt.% wood waste and rice husk/wood-waste-containing PLA biocomposites, respectively. The lowest wear was exhibited by the 5 wt.% rice husk/wood-waste-loaded PLA biocomposite. The experimental results were composition dependent and devoid of any discernible trend. Consequently, prioritizing the performance of PLA biocomposites to choose the best one among a collection of alternatives became challenging. Therefore, a decision-making algorithm, called CRITIC–MABAC, was used to select the optimal composition. The importance of attributes was determined by assigning weight using the CRITIC method, while the MABAC method was employed to assess the complete ranking of the biocomposites. The results achieved from the hybrid CRITIC–MABAC approach demonstrated that the 7.5 wt.% wood-waste-added PLA biocomposite exhibited the optimal physicomechanical and wear properties.
Structural, Thermal, and Optical Studies of Gamma Irradiated Polyvinyl Alcohol-, Lignosulfonate-, and Palladium Nanocomposite Film
Authors: Gharbi Foued , Benthami Kaoutar , Alsheddi Tarfa. H. , Barakat Mai M. E. , Alnaim Nisrin , Alshoaibi Adil , Nouh Samir A.
Published: June 2022

Nanocomposite (NC) films of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), lignosulfonate (Lg), and nanosized palladium (Pd) were synthesized by ex-situ casting method. Samples from the synthesized PVA-Lg/Pd NC films were irradiated with 5–100 kGy γ doses. The effect of γ doses on the structural, thermal, and optical characteristics of the NC films were studied using different characterization techniques. The results indicated that the γ irradiation improves the decomposition temperature from 227 to 239 °C, signifying an increase in the thermal stability of the NC films. This was accompanied by a reduction of the melting temperature due to the increase of the amorphous phase. This can be attributed to the dominance of crosslinking. On the other hand, the refractive index increased from 2.21 to 2.32 while increasing the γ dose up to 100 kGy. This was associated with a reduction of the optical bandgap from 3.49 to 3.30 eV, which could be attributed to the increase in the amorphous phase as a result of crosslinking. This indicates an enhancement of the spreading of the NPs inside the blend matrix due to γ irradiation. This results in a more compacted construction of the PVA-Lg/Pd NC films. Furthermore, we used the Commission Internationale de E’Claire (CIE) method to estimate the change in color among the irradiated NC films and the pristine film. The PVA-Lg/Pd NC attained a significant color difference value greater than five, meaning permanent color changes.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Analysis of Dynamic Continuous Operation of Low-Concentration Coalbed-Methane-Mixing Device
Authors: Xiao Lu
Published: June 2022

The concentration of low-concentration coalbed methane extracted from underground coal mine fluctuates greatly, which does not meet the requirements of intake concentration of coalbed-methane utilization devices. Due to this fluctuation, the coalbed-methane-utilization device cannot maintain stable and safe operation. The gas-mixing device is mainly used in coalbed-methane-utilization systems, providing each with a stable feed gas source with qualified concentration. In order to solve the problems of unsatisfactory uniformity of gas mixing and the large resistance of the existing coalbed-methane-mixing device, the mathematical model of the internal flow of the gas-mixing device is established. The influence of the internal structure of the gas-mixing device on the change in the uniformity of gas mixing and resistance loss is studied by numerical simulation and experiment. When the flow is 7000 Nm3/h, 50,000 Nm3/h and 160,000 Nm3/h, respectively, the spiral structure combination of L-N-R, N-L-R and L-N-R is optimal (L, R, N indicate left rotation, right rotation and without setting screw, respectively). There are some defects in the processing technology of the experimental device, which make the simulation and experimental data different. The numerical simulation of the gas-mixing process inside the unit can provide technical means for reducing resistance and improving the uniformity of gas mixing, and provide a stable gas source and safety measures for the coalbed-methane-utilization unit.
Optimization of Subcritical Fluid Extraction for Total Saponins from Hedera nepalensis Leaves Using Response Surface Methodology and Evaluation of Its Potential Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Duong Hoang Thanh , Trieu Ly Hai , Linh Do Thi Thuy , Duy Le Xuan , Thao Le Quang , Minh Le Van , Hiep Nguyen Tuan , Khoi Nguyen Minh
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: Hedera nepalensis (Araliaceae) is a recognized medicinal plant founded in Asia that has been reported to work in antioxidant, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antitumor capacities. (2) Methods: The subcritical fluid extraction of saponin from Hedera nepalensis leaves and the optimum of the extraction process based on yield of saponin contents (by calculating the hederacoside C contents in dried Hedera nepalensis leaves) are examined by response surface methodology (RSM). Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of the extract is tested for potential drug applications in the future. (3) Results: Based upon RSM data, the following parameters are optimal: extraction time of 3 min, extraction temperature of 150 °C, and a sample/solvent ratio of 1:55 g/mL. Under such circumstances, the achieved yield of saponin is 1.879%. Moreover, the extracts inhibit the growth of some bacterial strains (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenza) at a moderate to strong level with inhibition zone diameter values ranging from 12.63 to 19.50 mm. (4) Conclusions: The development of such a model provides a robust experimental process for optimizing the extraction factors of saponin contents from Hedera nepalensis extract using subcritical fluid extraction and RSM. Moreover, the current work reveals that saponin extracts of Hedera nepalensis leaves exhibit a potential antimicrobial activity, which can be used as scientific evidence for further study.
Design and Experiment of a Helicoidal Seed Tube to Improve Seed Distribution Uniformity of Seed Drills
Authors: Karayel Davut , Šarauskis Egidijus , Aktaş Ali
Published: June 2022

In a conventional seed drill, the flow of seeds into the planting bed is usually disrupted and irregular, which contributes to poor seed spacing uniformity. The seed tube of the seed drill may be one of the reasons for disrupted and irregular seed flow. A seed drill, in principle, has to deposit seeds into the ground at a uniform spacing to avoid nutrient competition for optimum yield. This study was inspired to develop a novel helicoidal seed tube that regulates the flow of seeds in a seed tube while being dispensed by the seed drill into the ground. The helicoidal tube was designed to fit the end of a conventional delivery tube of a seed drill. It works by allowing the falling seeds to move through the helix causing a frictional reaction, thereby regulating the velocity of the falling seeds. The developed helicoidal seed tube was tested under laboratory conditions at three heights of the helix (100, 150, and 200 mm) and four pitch sizes (28, 32, 36, and 40 mm). As a result of the laboratory tests, the optimum values for the helix height and pitch size were determined as 200 mm and 36 mm, respectively. The performance of the helicoidal seed tube (helix height of 200 mm and pitch size of 36 mm) was compared with the conventional (hollow) seed tube under laboratory and field conditions. Trials were carried out at a seeding rate of 200 kg/ha and a forward speed of 1 m/s for both wheat and barley seeds. Field trials showed that the coefficients of variation of seed spacing of the conventional seed tube decreased from 118.4% and 139.5% to 77.2% and 70.6% for wheat and barley sowing, respectively, when the helicoidal seed tube was used. Overall, the use of helicoidal seed tube provided a more equal growing area for each plant due to its lower coefficient of variation.
Narrating Animals, between Fear and Resilience
Authors: Brooks Pribac Teya
Published: June 2022

With a focus on the animal realm, this essay explores the question of lived and believed narratives and how they can turn from being, at genesis, a compelling creative and empowering force to an oppressive force of disempowerment and destruction. Narratives help us make sense of the world and work out how to behave in it. They are also heavily dependent on emotional and automatic systems and processes. This can lead to a discrepancy between the narrative and its referent that can stretch to the point that the narrative is only beneficial if the impact upon the referent is ignored. Instead of empowering us, such narratives can have the opposite effect, making us fundamentally vulnerable. A notorious case is the narrative that Western tradition has developed in relation to nonhuman animals. This narrative is being progressively dismantled as its consequences for the nonhuman animals, the humans and the entire planet are becoming increasingly harder to ignore.
An Improved Independent Parameter Decomposition Method for Gaofen-3 Surveying and Mapping Calibration
Authors: Li Tao , Fan Jun , Liu Yanyang , Lu Ruifeng , Hou Yusheng , Lu Jing
Published: June 2022

The Gaofen-3 (GF-3) satellite can provide digital elevation model (DEM) data from its interferogram outputs. However, the accuracy of these data cannot be ensured without applying a surveying and mapping (SAM) calibration process, thus necessitating geometric and interferometric calibration technologies. In this paper, we propose an independent parameter decomposition (IPD) method to conduct SAM calibration on GF-3 data and generate high-accuracy DEMs. We resolved the geometric parameters to improve the location accuracy and resolved the interferometric parameters to improve the height accuracy. First, we established a geometric calibration model, analyzed the Range–Doppler (RD) model and resolved the initial imaging time error as well as the initial slant range error. Then, we established a three-dimensional reconstruction (TDR) model to analyze the height error sources. Finally, the interferometric phase error and baseline vector error were precisely estimated to ensure the vertical accuracy of the interferometric results by establishing the interferometric calibration model. We then used the GF-3 interferometric data derived on the same orbit in a north–south distribution to conduct the calibration experiment. The results show that the plane positioning accuracy was 5.09 m following geometric calibration, that the vertical accuracy of the interferometric results was 4.18 m following interferometric calibration and that the average absolute elevation accuracy of the derived DEM product was better than 3.09 m when using the GF-3 SAR data, thus confirming the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed GF-3 IPD calibration method. These results provide a technical basis for SAM calibration using GF-3 interferograms at the 1:50,000 scale in China.
A Dual Multi-Head Contextual Attention Network for Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: Liang Miaomiao , He Qinghua , Yu Xiangchun , Wang Huai , Meng Zhe , Jiao Licheng
Published: June 2022

To learn discriminative features, hyperspectral image (HSI), containing 3-D cube data, is a preferable means of capturing multi-head self-attention from both spatial and spectral domains if the burden in model optimization and computation is low. In this paper, we design a dual multi-head contextual self-attention (DMuCA) network for HSI classification with the fewest possible parameters and lower computation costs. To effectively capture rich contextual dependencies from both domains, we decouple the spatial and spectral contextual attention into two sub-blocks, SaMCA and SeMCA, where depth-wise convolution is employed to contextualize the input keys in the pure dimension. Thereafter, multi-head local attentions are implemented as group processing when the keys are alternately concatenated with the queries. In particular, in the SeMCA block, we group the spatial pixels by evenly sampling and create multi-head channel attention on each sampling set, to reduce the number of the training parameters and avoid the storage increase. In addition, the static contextual keys are fused with the dynamic attentional features in each block to strengthen the capacity of the model in data representation. Finally, the decoupled sub-blocks are weighted and summed together for 3-D attention perception of HSI. The DMuCA module is then plugged into a ResNet to perform HSI classification. Extensive experiments demonstrate that our proposed DMuCA achieves excellent results over several state-of-the-art attention mechanisms with the same backbone.
A Fast PARAFAC Algorithm for Parameter Estimation in Monostatic FDA-MIMO Radar
Authors: Wang Wenshuai , Lan Xiang , Shi Jinmei , Wang Xianpeng
Published: June 2022

This paper studies the joint range and angle estimation of monostatic frequency diverse array multiple-input multiple-output (FDA-MIMO) radar and proposes a joint estimation algorithm. First, the transmit direction matrix is converted into real values by unitary transformation, and the Vandermonde-like matrix structure is used to construct an augmented output that doubles the aperture of the receive array. Then the augmented output is combined into a third-order tensor. Next, the factor matrices are initially estimated. Finally, the direction matrices are estimated utilizing parallel factor (PARAFAC) decomposition, and the range and angle are calculated by employing least square fitting. As contrasted with the classic PARAFAC method, the proposed method can estimate more targets and provide better estimation performance, and requires less computational complexity. The availability and excellence of the proposed method are reflected by numerical simulations and complexity analysis.
Research on Competitive Neutrality of SOEs with Special Functions in China
Authors: Duan Yixuan , Kang Yu
Published: June 2022

A Deviation from competitive neutrality is one of the main problems faced by Chinese state-owned enterprises. Based on the orientation of the classification reform of state-owned enterprises to all kinds of enterprises, we discuss the competitive neutrality of state-owned enterprises with special functions from the perspectives of enterprise policy burden and enterprise profits. The research herein shows that state-owned enterprises, as the main entities of policy burden, have undertaken social responsibilities such as helping the government to stabilize employment, which has caused problems such as creating redundant employees, reducing the efficiency of employees, and reducing the profits of enterprises. To make up for the loss of profits of enterprises that bear the policy burden, the government provides them with implicit guarantees, which makes it easier for them to obtain bank loans and other external factors, and the asset–liability ratio of enterprises increases, which comprises the problem concerning a deviation from competitive neutrality that the United States and other western countries have surmised. However, the empirical study found that the deviation from competitive neutrality in financing actually reduced the profits of enterprises, that is, the state-owned enterprises faced a certain competitive disadvantage. Based on the research conclusion herein, this paper puts forward some enlightening findings on state-owned enterprise reform.
High Quality, Equity, and Assessment: An Analysis of Variables Impacting English Learner Standardized Science Test Performance and Implications for Construct Validity
Authors: Salazar Maria del Carmen , Bruno Joanna K. , Schneider Melissa P.
Published: June 2022

In the United States, assessment is seen as a lever that can facilitate high-quality education. This study on English learners, students whose native language is not English, was based on data from eighth-grade English learners’ performance on science general and content-specific (physical, life, and earth science) standardized exams and an English language proficiency exam. The researchers utilized regression analysis to examine factors (i.e., socioeconomic status, home language, English language proficiency, and receptive and productive elements of language) that are predictive of English learner performance in general and content-specific science standardized assessments to identify implications for construct validity of high-stakes science assessments. The research question is as follows: What factors influence the performance of English learners on a standardized science assessment, including overall performance and content-specific domains? Three main findings emerged from this research study. First, this study confirms previous research indicating that socioeconomic status and English language proficiency are predictive of English learners’ achievement on content-based standardized tests. Second, this study adds to current research by providing evidence that productive language scores are the most significant predictors of English learner science achievement, in comparison to receptive language scores, overall English language proficiency scores, home language, and socioeconomic status. Third, this study adds to the body of evidence needed to challenge the validity of standardized science tests for English learner populations. The findings of this study challenge the construct validity of science content-based assessments for English learners, emphasizing the importance of productive language in academic performance.
Sustainable Circular Supplier Selection in the Power Battery Industry Using a Linguistic T-Spherical Fuzzy MAGDM Model Based on the Improved ARAS Method
Authors: Wang Haolun
Published: June 2022

In the power battery industry, the selection of an appropriate sustainable recycling supplier (SCS) is a significant topic in circular supply chain management. Evaluating and selecting a SCS for spent power batteries is considered a complex multi-attribute group decision-making (MAGDM) problem closely related to the environment, economy, and society. The linguistic T-spherical fuzzy (Lt-SF) set (Lt-SFS) is a combination of a linguistic term set and a T-spherical fuzzy set (T-SFS), which can accurately describe vague cognition of human and uncertain environments. Therefore, this article proposes a group decision-making methodology for a SCS selection based on the improved additive ratio assessment (ARAS) in the Lt-SFS context. This paper extends the Lt-SF generalized distance measure and defines the Lt-SF similarity measure. The Lt-SF Heronian mean (Lt-SFHM) operator and its weighted form (i.e., Lt-SFWHM) were developed. Subsequently, a new Lt-SF MAGDM model was constructed by integrating the LT-SFWHM operator, generalized distance measure, and ARAS method. In it, the expert weight on the attribute was determined based on the similarity measure, using the generalized distance measure to obtain the objective attribute weight and then the combined attribute weight. Finally, a real case of SCS selection in the power battery industry is presented for demonstration. The effectiveness and practicability of this method were verified through a sensitivity analysis and a comparative study with the existing methods.
A Systematic Literature Review on Ownership and Corporate Social Responsibility in Family Firms
Authors: Su Saier , Zhu Fei , Zhou Haibo
Published: June 2022

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) research has developed rapidly in recent years, and scholars have called for a more comprehensive picture of CSR research in family firms. In response to the call, this study conducts a systematic literature review of CSR activities in family firms from an important but understudied perspective: ownership. In addition to showing the divergent effects of ownership on family firm CSR, this research also reveals multiple mediating mechanisms and moderators for the above relationship and family ownership as a boundary condition for the relationships between family firm CSR and outcomes. Theories and methodological issues in past research are analyzed, and limitations and future research directions are also proposed.
Thermal Properties of Hydrated Lime-Modified Asphalt Concrete and Modelling Evaluation for Their Effect on the Constructed Pavements in Service
Authors: Al Ashaibi Azedin , Wang Yu , Albayati Amjad , Byzyka Juliana , Scholz Miklas , Weekes Laurence
Published: June 2022

Flexible pavements are subjected to three main distress types: fatigue crack, thermal crack, and permanent deformation. Under severe climate conditions, thermal cracking particularly contributes largely to a considerable scale of premature deterioration of pavement infrastructure worldwide. This challenge is especially relevant for Europe, as weather conditions vary significantly throughout the year. Hydrated lime (HL) has been recognized as an effective additive to improve the mechanical properties of asphalt concrete for pavement applications. Previous research has found that a replacement of conventional limestone dust filler using hydrated lime at 2.5% of the total weight of aggregates generated an optimum improvement in the mechanical properties of the asphalt concrete mixes used for all three purposed layers (i.e., wearing, levelling, and base) at atmospheric temperatures from mild to relatively high. This paper reports on a continuous experimental test for the thermal properties of the optimized hydrated lime-modified mixes. The experiment together with that conducted before provides the required data to characterize the thermomechanical constitutive relations of the optimized hydrated lime-modified mixes. The obtained thermal and mechanical properties thereafter were implemented in a numerical modelling study for a scenario involving pavement exposed to coupled thermal and traffic service conditions. The study has demonstrated that using HL in mineral filler enhances the thermal properties of asphalt concrete, which, however, showed little influence on the local temperature profiles within the pavement structure. The thermal effect is pronounced under the coupled thermomechanical conditions for a pavement exposed to both traffic and climatic impacts. The HL pavement has about 1.5% less deformation, and 39% less stress level under traffic loading only, but the thermal effect increases the maximum total internal tensile stress level by 26% in the HL pavement in winter season. The modelling analysis has shown that the local maximum tensile stress dominates in the surface region of the HL pavement. It will help to reduce the workload of crack repairing and in long term help on saving costs and efforts of maintenance.
A Review on the Adoption of AI, BC, and IoT in Sustainability Research
Authors: WU Susie Ruqun , Shirkey Gabriela , Celik Ilke , Shao Changliang , Chen Jiquan
Published: June 2022

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain (BC), and the internet of things (IoT) has had significant applications in the advancement of sustainability research. This review examines how these digital transformations drive natural and human systems, as well as which industry sectors have been applying them to advance sustainability. We adopted qualitative research methods, including a bibliometric analysis, in which we screened 960 publications to identify the leading sectors that apply AI/BC/IoT, and a content analysis to identify how each sector uses AI/BC/IoT to advance sustainability. We identified “smart city”, “energy system”, and “supply chain” as key leading sectors. Of these technologies, IoT received the most real-world applications in the “smart city” sector under the dimensions of “smart environment” and “smart mobility” and provided applications resolving energy consumption in the “energy system” sector. AI effectively resolved scheduling, prediction, and monitoring for both the “smart city” and “energy system” sectors. BC remained highly theoretical for “supply chain”, with limited applications. The technological integration of AI and IoT is a research trend for the “smart city” and “energy system” sectors, while BC and IoT is proposed for the “supply chain”. We observed a surge in AI/BC/IoT sustainability research since 2016 and a new research trend—technological integration—since 2020. Collectively, six of the United Nation’s seventeen sustainable development goals (i.e., 6, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13) have been the most widely involved with these technologies.
Assessment of the Potential of a Native Non-Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus Isolate to Reduce Aflatoxin Contamination in Dairy Feed
Authors: Rangel-Muñoz Erika Janet , Valdivia-Flores Arturo Gerardo , Hernández-Delgado Sanjuana , Cruz-Vázquez Carlos , de-Luna-López María Carolina , Quezada-Tristán Teódulo , Ortiz-Martínez Raúl , Mayek-Pérez Netzahualcóyotl
Published: June 2022

Aspergillus species can produce aflatoxins (AFs), which can severely affect human and animal health. The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of reducing AF contamination of a non-aflatoxigenic isolate of A. flavus experimentally coinoculated with different aflatoxigenic strains in whole plant (WP), corn silage (CS), immature grains (IG) and in culture media (CM). An L-morphotype of A. flavus (CS1) was obtained from CS in a dairy farm located in the Mexican Highland Plateau; The CS1 failed to amplify the AFs biosynthetic pathway regulatory gene (aflR). Monosporic CS1 isolates were coinoculated in WP, CS, IG and CM, together with A. flavus strains with known aflatoxigenic capacity (originating from Cuautitlán and Tamaulipas, Mexico), and native isolates from concentrate feed (CF1, CF2 and CF3) and CS (CS2, CS3). AF production was evaluated by HPLC and fungal growth rate was measured on culture media. The positive control strains and those isolated from CF produced a large average amount of AFs (15,622 ± 3952 and 12,189 ± 3311 µg/kg), whereas A. flavus strains obtained from CS produced a lower AF concentration (126 ± 25.9 µg/kg). CS1 was efficient (p < 0.01) in decreasing AF concentrations when coinoculated together with CF, CS and aflatoxigenic positive control strains (71.6–88.7, 51.0–51.1 and 63.1–71.5%) on WP, CS, IG and CM substrates (73.9–78.2, 65.1–73.7, 63.8–68.4 and 57.4–67.6%). The results suggest that the non-aflatoxigenic isolate can be an effective tool to reduce AF contamination in feed and to minimize the presence of its metabolites in raw milk and dairy products intended for human nutrition.
Effect of Ephemeris on Pulsar Timing and Navigation Accuracy Based on X-ray Pulsar Navigation-I Data
Authors: Deng Yongtao , Jin Shuanggen
Published: June 2022

Solar system ephemeris is very important for pulsar timing and navigation. In order to explore the effect of different precision ephemerides on X-ray pulsar timing and navigation, the differences between timing and navigation results with four JPL Development Ephemerides based on the data of X-ray pulsar navigation-I (XPNAV-I) were compared and analyzed in this paper. For pulsar timing, the ephemeris has a systematic effect on time scale conversion (nanosecond difference), light-travel delay (millisecond difference) and timing residuals (microsecond difference), and the pulse profile phase can reflect the systematic deviation caused by different ephemerides in the timing calculation. The timing results show that it is necessary to compile the pulsar timing model based on the newer ephemeris. For navigation, based on the significant enhancement of pulse profile with orbit-dynamic (SEPO), the absolute error between simulation orbit and actual orbit is less than 2 km for each ephemeris, and the differences between simulation orbits are less than 1 km. The orbit position accuracy calculated by the ephemeris used in pulsar timing parameter calculation is the highest (DE200 in this paper), which explains the necessity of using a unified ephemeris in the calculation of timing and navigation with satisfying its internal self-consistency.
Gut Microbiome Changes Occurring with Norovirus Infection and Recovery in Infants Enrolled in a Longitudinal Birth Cohort in Leon, Nicaragua
Authors: Cannon Jennifer L. , Seabolt Matthew H. , Xu Ruijie , Montmayeur Anna , Suh Soo Hwan , Diez-Valcarce Marta , Bucardo Filemón , Becker-Dreps Sylvia , Vinjé Jan
Published: June 2022

Noroviruses are associated with one fifth of diarrheal illnesses globally and are not yet preventable with vaccines. Little is known about the effects of norovirus infection on infant gut microbiome health, which has a demonstrated role in protecting hosts from pathogens and a possible role in oral vaccine performance. In this study, we characterized infant gut microbiome changes occurring with norovirus-associated acute gastroenteritis (AGE) and the extent of recovery. Metagenomic sequencing was performed on the stools of five infants participating in a longitudinal birth cohort study conducted in León, Nicaragua. Taxonomic and functional diversities of gut microbiomes were profiled at time points before, during, and after norovirus infection. Initially, the gut microbiomes resembled those of breastfeeding infants, rich in probiotic species. When disturbed by AGE, Gammaproteobacteria dominated, particularly Pseudomonas species. Alpha diversity increased but the genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and glycan biosynthesis decreased. After the symptoms subsided, the gut microbiomes rebounded with their taxonomic and functional communities resembling those of the pre-infection microbiomes. In this study, during disruptive norovirus-associated AGE, the gut microbiome was temporarily altered, returning to a pre-infection composition a median of 58 days later. Our study provides new insights for developing probiotic treatments and furthering our understanding of the role that episodes of AGE have in shaping the infant gut microbiome, their long-term outcomes, and implications for oral vaccine effectiveness.
The C-Terminal Domain of HIV-1 Integrase: A Swiss Army Knife for the Virus?
Authors: Rocchi Cecilia , Gouet Patrice , Parissi Vincent , Fiorini Francesca
Published: June 2022

Retroviral integrase is a multimeric enzyme that catalyzes the integration of reverse-transcribed viral DNA into the cellular genome. Beyond integration, the Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) integrase is also involved in many other steps of the viral life cycle, such as reverse transcription, nuclear import, virion morphogenesis and proviral transcription. All these additional functions seem to depend on the action of the integrase C-terminal domain (CTD) that works as a molecular hub, interacting with many different viral and cellular partners. In this review, we discuss structural issues concerning the CTD, with particular attention paid to its interaction with nucleic acids. We also provide a detailed map of post-translational modifications and interaction with molecular partners.
Effect of Casirivimab/Imdevimab Treatment on Serum Type I Interferon Levels in SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Nagaoka Kentaro , Kawasuji Hitoshi , Takegoshi Yusuke , Murai Yushi , Kaneda Makito , Ueno Akitoshi , Miyajima Yuki , Niimi Hideki , Morinaga Yoshitomo , Yamamoto Yoshihiro
Published: June 2022

The effects of casirivimab and imdevimab (C/I) on the innate immune response against SARS-CoV-2 infection remain unclear. We evaluated the effect of C/I on type I interferon (IFN-I) and cytokines in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. This prospective observational study recruited consecutive patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Blood levels of IFN-I and cytokines before and after C/I administration were assessed using enzyme-linked immunoassay. The study enrolled 29 patients in the C/I group. In addition, 11 patients who received remdesivir and dexamethasone (R/D group) during the early phase (≤5 days after the onset of symptoms) were included as a comparator group. After treatment, IFN-α and IFN-β levels decreased significantly in both the C/I group and R/D group, whilst the post-treatment neutrophil-to-lymphoid ratio increased in the early C/I group but not the R/D group. In the C/I group, temporal temperature elevation and hypoxemia were observed after treatment in 58.6% and 41.4% of the cohort, respectively. However, most patients recovered by 5 days after treatment. This study could demonstrate the high therapeutic effect of C/I with an antibody-dependent enhancement-like response and decreased IFN-I production, which was likely due to the immediate induction of an antibody-dependent immune response against SARS-CoV-2.
Occurrence, Genetic Variability of Tomato Yellow Ring Orthotospovirus Population and the Development of Reverse Transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay for Its Rapid Detection
Authors: Zarzyńska-Nowak Aleksandra , Budzyńska Daria , Taberska Agnieszka , Jędrzejczak Norbert , Minicka Julia , Borodynko-Filas Natasza , Hasiów-Jaroszewska Beata
Published: June 2022

Tomato-infecting viruses have been considered as a serious threat to tomato crops in Poland. Therefore, during 2014–2021, 234 tomato samples delivered directly by greenhouse tomato growers to Plant Disease Clinic of IPP-NRI were tested. Eight virus species: pepino mosaic virus (PepMV), tomato yellow ring orthotospovirus (TYRV), tomato spotted wilt orthotospovirus (TSWV), potato virus Y (PVY), cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), tomato black ring virus (TBRV) and tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) were detected in single or mixed infection in 89 samples. The presence of TYRV was established for the first time in Poland in 2014. Since then, its presence has been observed in single and mixed infection with TSWV and CMV. Here, we analysed the genetic variability of TYRV population based on complete nucleocapsid (N) protein gene sequence of 55 TYRV isolates. Maximum-likelihood reconstruction revealed the presence of three distinct, well-supported phylogroups. Moreover, the effect of host species on virus diversity was confirmed. Therefore, RT-LAMP assay was developed for the rapid and efficient detection of TYRV isolates that can be implemented in field and greenhouse conditions.
Evaluation of Patients with Vaccine Allergies Prior to mRNA-Based COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Lim Xin Rong , Tan Justina Wei Lynn , Chan Grace Yin Lai , Hou Jinfeng , Xie Linlin , Goh Vivian Hui Li , Boon Joewee , Lee Samuel Shang Ming , Teo Claire Min-Li , Tan Sze Chin , Leong Khai Pang , Thong Bernard Yu Hor , Leung Bernard Pui Lam
Published: June 2022

During the initial rollout of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination in Singapore, the Ministry of Health (MOH) issued a recommendation that patients with a history of any previous vaccine allergy be referred to an allergist for further review of their suitability to proceed with mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. Patients fulfilling the above criterion were divided into three groups: immediate reaction (Group A), delayed reaction (Group B) and no/irrelevant reaction (Group C). They were subjected to either a skin prick test (SPT) and intradermal test (IDT) with polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polysorbate-containing products; direct injection with the Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccine in the allergy clinic; or injection at community vaccination centres, respectively. Groups A and B were also invited to complete a questionnaire survey on post-vaccination reactions, and blood sampling pre-vaccination and 1 h after the first dose of the BNT162b2 vaccine to measure immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgM and IgE antibodies to the Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccine via ELISA assays immobilised with the BNT162b2 vaccine, as well as levels of allergic cytokines interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-33, complement C5a and the endothelial activation marker intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). Groups A and B comprised 62 (20.5%) patients each. In Group A, two subjects (3.2%) with equivocal IDT results tolerated both doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine without major allergic reactions. The remaining 60 (96.8%) in Group A and 62 (100%) in Group B completed both doses of BNT162b2 vaccination without major adverse reactions. Among the 99 who completed the questionnaire survey, 13 (13%) patients reported mild allergic reactions after the first dose of the vaccine. Immunoglobulin (Ig) G and M antibodies, but not IgE antibodies to the Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccine were detected in 67 subjects prior to vaccination. The presence of anti-Pfizer BNT162b2 IgG and IgM prior to vaccination did not result in major allergic reactions nor increases in Th2-related cytokines (IL-4, IL-33), complement activation products (C5a) or endothelial activation (ICAM-1). The majority of those with suspected reactions to non-COVID-19 polysorbate-containing vaccines tolerated the BNT162b2 vaccine. Excipient skin tests for PEG and polysorbate prior to vaccination are unnecessary.
High Efficiency of Low Dose Preparations of an Inactivated Lumpy Skin Disease Virus Vaccine Candidate
Authors: Wolff Janika , Beer Martin , Hoffmann Bernd
Published: June 2022

Capripox virus-induced diseases are commonly described as the most serious poxvirus diseases of production animals, as they have a significant impact on national and global economies. Therefore, they are classified as notifiable diseases under the guidelines of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). Controlling lumpy skin disease viral infections is based on early detection, slaughter of affected herds, and ring vaccinations. Until now, only live attenuated vaccines have been commercially available, which often induce adverse effects in vaccinated animals. Furthermore, their application leads to the loss of the “disease-free” status of the respective country. For these reasons, inactivated vaccines have increasingly generated interest. Since 2016, experimental studies have been published showing the high efficacy of inactivated capripox virus vaccines. In the present study, we examined the minimum protective dose of a BEI-inactivated LSDV-Serbia field strain adjuvanted with a low-molecular-weight copolymer adjuvant. Unexpectedly, even the lowest dose tested, with a virus titer of 104 CCID50 before inactivation, was able to provide complete clinical protection in all vaccinated cattle. Moreover, none of the vaccinated cattle showed viremia or viral shedding, indicating the high efficacy of the prototype vaccine even with a relatively low antigen amount.