bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Romanian Holiday Vouchers: A Chance to Travel for Low-Income Employees or an Instrument to Boost the Tourism Industry?
Authors: Albă Claudia Daniela , Popescu Liliana Sonia
Published: January 2023

Holiday vouchers are a tool that have been used for 40 years to encourage employees’ access to vacation and have been highlighted during the recent pandemic, when governments used them to support the tourism industry. Using a naturalistic inquiry that combined focus groups with workers from travel agencies and semi-structured interviews with tourists, we analysed the influence of the Romanian holiday voucher scheme on the tourist behaviour of employees in order to establish the holiday vouchers’ usefulness as a tool in social tourism or for the development of the tourism industry. An overwhelming share of the interviewees considered the granting of holiday vouchers beneficial. First and foremost, holiday vouchers enabled some people with blue-collar jobs to have their first holiday in decades. Secondly, vouchers influenced tourist behaviour mainly in terms of destination choice, services purchased and holiday frequency and/or duration. Moreover, for the past couple of years when there were major events with impacts on the entire economy worldwide, holiday vouchers proved to be a lifesaver for the Romanian tourism industry.
The Role of ADAS While Driving in Complex Road Contexts: Support or Overload for Drivers?
Authors: Bosurgi Gaetano , Pellegrino Orazio , Ruggeri Alessia , Sollazzo Giuseppe
Published: January 2023

The possibility of using some warnings inside modern vehicles should be an aid to driving activity. However, the information transferred to users is not always received in the expected way due to the variability and complexity of the road environment. This study, therefore, aims to identify a procedure that allows to ascertain whether drivers receive the data in an appropriate way even during particular maneuvers, such as passing cyclists on a winding road or, on the contrary, if they represent an unnecessary overload. To answer this question, an experimentation in a simulated environment was set up for recording the drivers’ visual behavior in both the presence and absence of a driving aid device (On-Board Unit, OBU). The results show that, in some situations, the information provided by the OBU helps to maintain a more virtuous driving behavior but, in the most complex ones, drivers acquire information from a smaller number of sources, excluding the aid devices inside the cockpit. This procedure is useful for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) designers to refine these instruments, but also for road managers who can improve safety by inserting appropriate signs or speed limits.
Simulation Research on Energy Evolution and Supply Law of Rock–Coal System under the Influence of Stiffness
Authors: Yin Yanchun , Tang Xingxue , Ma Qinwei , Li Zhenan , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2023

The energy supply effect caused by the stiffness difference between roofs and sidewalls is an important factor that induces strain coal bursts. In order to quantitatively reveal the energy supply mechanism of strain coal bursts, this paper first establishes a coal burst energy model of the rock–coal system and proposes the calculation formula of coal burst kinetic energy considering supply energy and the stiffness ratio of rock to coal. Then the whole energy evolution law of the rock–coal system with different stiffness ratios is researched by using the numerical simulation method, and the whole process is divided into three stages. With the decrease in the stiffness ratio, the elastic strain energy of the coal changes little, while its kinetic energy is negatively correlated with the stiffness ratio in a power function. Meanwhile, the elastic strain energy and kinetic energy of the rock have power function relations with the stiffness ratio, too. When the rock–coal system is fractured, the kinetic energy of the coal comes from the release of elastic strain energy from the coal and the energy supplied from the rock. The energy supply rate is between 22% and 35% when the stiffness ratio changes from 3.0 to 0.5, and they show a linear relationship, while the supplied energy has a negative power function relationship with the stiffness ratio.
How Tourist Experience Quality, Perceived Price Reasonableness and Regenerative Tourism Involvement Influence Tourist Satisfaction: A Study of Ha’il Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Rehman Anis Ur , Abbas Mazhar , Abbasi Faraz Ahmad , Khan Shoaib
Published: January 2023

This study attempts to examine the interactions between the tourist experience quality, perceived price reasonableness, and regenerative tourism involvement variables and tourist satisfaction by taking into account the moderating effects of tourist destination loyalty and destination image. The survey was circulated among international tourists visiting the Ha’il region of Saudi Arabia. This study used structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze the data collected. The results showed significant and positive effects of enjoyment, tourist destination loyalty, and destination image on tourist satisfaction. However, the findings show that escapism, relaxation, involvement, perceived price reasonableness, and regenerative tourism involvement did not have a direct impact on tourist satisfaction. Further, it was found that the destination image moderates the relationship between regenerative tourism involvement and tourist satisfaction. The results also reveal that tourist destination loyalty significantly moderates the relationship between perceived price reasonableness and tourist satisfaction. The influence of regenerative tourism involvement on tourist satisfaction has not been addressed in prior research, to the best of authors’ knowledge, and is, therefore, the unique contribution of this study.
Critical Analysis of the GreenMetric World University Ranking System: The Issue of Comparability
Authors: Boiocchi Riccardo , Ragazzi Marco , Torretta Vincenzo , Rada Elena Cristina
Published: January 2023

The Universitas Indonesia GreenMetric World Ranking is the most widely adopted system nowadays to rank worldwide universities’ sustainability. The number of participating universities has consistently increased throughout the last decade. An in-depth analysis of this ranking system is made to assess how sustainability in universities is measured through specific indicators. Specifically, based on expert knowledge, common logic and the scientific literature, these indicators are assessed with respect to whether they can be used to fairly quantify and rank worldwide universities’ sustainability development. Some indicators proposed by the ranking system, such as the number of renewable energy sources on campus and the number of various types of programs for sustainable development, were found to be unable to measure any sustainability development effectively and fairly. Many others, such as the opted sewage disposal modality, the percentage of university budget for sustainability efforts and the ratio of sustainability research funding to total research funding, were found to need adjustment to account for context-specific factors such as availability of renewable energy sources, weather, landscape, original construction and the cultural habits of the enrolled people. Taking into account these considerations, a fairer evaluation and comparison of universities’ sustainability could be achieved which provides universities with information on how to effectively improve their sustainability.
Evaluating Kindergarten Parents’ Acceptance of Unplugged Programming Language Courses: An Extension of Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Huang Yu-Chun , Lii Peirchyi
Published: January 2023

The changing economic environment in Taiwan has led to an increase in the structure of double-income families. To compensate for the lack of time to take care of their children and the regret of their learning process, parents will send their children to kindergarten early. Parents choose to expose their children to better education and learning models because they do not want their children to get behind at the starting point. The newly introduced unplugged programming language curriculum can develop children’s logical and computational thinking skills to face future learning and employment skills in information and communications technology-related industries. The purpose of this study is to examine the parental acceptance of unplugged programming language courses and to analyze the relationship between the variables in the study framework to understand influencing factors. The theoretical basis of the study is the planned behavior theory. This study replaces behavioral intention with parents’ acceptance and establishes a basic framework of attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control. The study framework is established by combining the factors of expectation and compensation as antecedent variables of attitude. An online e-questionnaire is distributed to parents of children aged 5–6 years old in Taiwan to collect data. The structural equation model is conducted on 489 data points. Results of the study reveal that expectation and compensation have a significant effect on attitude. Attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control have a significant positive effect on family acceptance of unplugged programming language. Furthermore, the expectation and compensation psychology affect the parental acceptance of unplugged language programs through attitude. Finally, practical applications and future research directions regarding the promotion of unplugged programming language for young children are provided.
Feasibility and Techno-Economic Evaluation of Hybrid Photovoltaic System: A Rural Healthcare Center in Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Polash , Rahman Md. Ferdous , Haque A. K. M. Mahmudul , Mohammed Mustafa K. A. , Toki G. F. Ishraque , Ali Md. Hasan , Kuddus Abdul , Rubel M. H. K. , Hossain M. Khalid
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to investigate a techno-economic evaluation of the photovoltaic system, along with a diesel generator as a backup supply, to ensure a continuous twenty-four hours power supply per day, no matter the status of the weather. Healthcare centers in Bangladesh play a vital role in the health issues of the residents of rural areas. In this regard, a healthcare center in Baliadangi—Lahiri Hat Rd, Baliadangi, Thakurgaon, Bangladesh, was selected to be electrically empowered. The simulation software Hybrid Optimisation Model for Electric Renewables (HOMER) and the HOMER Powering Health tool were used to analyze and optimize the renewable energy required by the healthcare center. It was found that the healthcare center required a 24.3 kW solar PV system with a net current cost of $28,705.2; the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) was $0.02728 per kW-hours, where renewable energy would provide 98% of the system’s total power requirements. The generator would provide 1% and the grid would supply the remaining 1%. The load analysis revealed that the hybrid PV system might be superior to other power sources for providing electricity for both the normal function and the emergencies that arise in healthcare’s day-to-day life. The outcome of the study is expected to be beneficial for both government and other stakeholders in decision-making.
Spatio-Temporal Analysis about Resource and Environmental Carrying Capacity (RECC) of Mining Cities in Coal-Concentrated Areas: A Case Study of Huaihai Economic Zone in China
Authors: Tong Shuai , Ji Xiang , Chu Yun , Liu Tianlong , Wang Fengyu
Published: January 2023

The over-exploitation and utilization of natural resources in mining cities has caused sharp contradictions between urban development and ecological protection. In addition, dynamic changes in resources and environmental carrying capacity (RECC) will be changed by the different ways and degrees of the specific utilization of natural resources. In order to better study the dynamic trends and reasons of the RECC in mining cities, so as to provide methods and suggestions for the mining cities to save resources, improve the ecology, and adjust the industrial structure, this article will construct an evaluation index for the RECC of mining cities. Taking Huaihai Economic Zone as the research object, we used the entropy method to determine the index weight. Then, the TOPSIS model was used to analyze the spatial and temporal characteristics of the development of the RECC of mining cities in coal-concentrated areas during 2012–2018. After the analysis, the study found five results. (1) Except Zaozhuang, the RECC of the six mining cities in the Huaihai Economic Zone showed a steady upward trend during 2012–2018; (2) among the three subsystems, natural resources have the greatest impact on the RECC; (3) in terms of space, the carrying capacity in this region gradually has a polarization phenomenon centered on Xuzhou and Jining, and will continue to increase in the future; (4) the types of mining cities will have an impact on the change characteristics of the RECC; and (5) most cities improve the level of ecological carrying capacity (ECC) and social economic carrying capacity (SECC) at the cost of the decline of resources carrying capacity (RCC). Based on the results, the research can provide optimized reference strategies for the transformation and development of mining cities to ecological cities in Huaihai Economic Zone.
Air Pollution Modeling for Sustainable Urban Mobility with COVID-19 Impact Analysis: Case Study of Skopje
Authors: Miletić Mladen , Ivanjko Edouard , Fratrović Tomislav , Abramović Borna
Published: January 2023

Air pollution is one of the major problems in today’s urban areas. With increasing development and the need for the transport of goods and people, it has become imperative to seek sustainable urban mobility solutions. The impact of restrictive COVID-19 pandemic measures provides a unique insight into the possible reductions in air pollution. This paper presents a case study on the city of Skopje, North Macedonia, and attempts to identify the effect of traffic emissions on air quality. Resultant correlation analysis and linear regression models show the impacts of multiple factors contributing to air pollution. Finally, a discussion on the impact of COVID-19 measures on air pollution is provided. The main findings of this research are the observed drop in air pollution levels during COVID-19 measures, the effects on air pollution models, and the identification of primary pollutants in the city of Skopje.
A Simulation Analysis of Land Use Changes in the Yarlung Zangbo River and Its Two Tributaries of Tibet Using the Markov–PLUS Model
Authors: Hao Wenyuan , Cao Zhenzhu , Ou Shengya , Qin Yi , Wang Zhongbin , Yang Shuang , Tiando Damien Sinonmatohou , Fan Xin
Published: January 2023

Since the beginning of the 21st century, the economic development of Tibet has been accelerating. The Yarlung Zangbo River and its two tributaries, as the region with the largest population concentration and the fastest economic development in Tibet, has been under the dual influence of global climate warming and the intensification of human social and economic activities, where a high number of land types, such as woodland, grassland, and water areas, have been transformed into other land types, and the residential area has expanded in a disorderly manner. The ability to maintain sustainable regional development has been severely damaged. To meet the requirements of different stages of social and economic development and regional social development goals, in this study, we use the Yarlung Zangbo River and its two tributaries of Tibet as an example. Based on the Markov–PLUS model and considering the natural, social, and cultural conditions of the basin, combined with the multi-landscape simulation of land use, we predict the land use situation of the Yarlung Zangbo River and its two tributaries of Tibet in 2038. We observed the following: (i) the Markov–PLUS model has a high simulation accuracy for different land types in the study area, and can sufficiently simulate the changes in different land types in the Yarlung Zangbo River and its two tributaries of Tibet; and (ii) the simulation settings of the three landscapes basically meet the different development modes and paths of the basin in the future. There were obvious differences in the structure of land use in the basin, among which there were obvious differences, especially agricultural land and water areas. Use of the Markov–PLUS model can provide data support and references for the implementation in terms of ecological scrutiny, landscape planning, and early warnings for food production consumption security and unreasonable land use, in order to achieve the sustainable development of the basin.
The Ecological Footprint of Greek Citizens: Main Drivers of Consumption and Influencing Factors
Authors: Amprazis Alexandros , Galanis Nikolaos , Malandrakis Georgios , Panaras Georgios , Papadopoulou Penelope , Galli Alessandro
Published: January 2023

The Ecological Footprint (EF) is undoubtedly an important tool for calculating humans’ impact on the environment. For this tool to be even more accessible and understood by most of the people, many online ecological footprint calculators have been created, the most reliable of which was developed by Global Footprint Network (GFN). Aim of this study is to present the Greek population’s main drivers of consumption patterns after customizing the GFN’s international online calculator to the Greek statistics and national accounts. Moreover, the goal of this study is to assess the factors influencing the Ecological Footprint of Greek citizens. The development of a Greek-specific calculator was based on long-lasting research that included gathering and analyzing information about the Greek population. Five hundred seventy-four Greeks used the calculator after its adaptation, and data were collected regarding their total ecological footprint and its differentiation by land type and by consumption category. According to the results, Greece has a low mean of ecological footprint in comparison to other European countries, but there is still a lot of ground to cover for achieving a truly acceptable sustainable way of living. Additionally, only the variable of gender seems to affect the ecological footprint of Greeks, with females having significantly lower personal EF (M = 3.37) than males (M = 4.36, p = 0.011). The adapted online calculator and the produced results regarding the EF of Greek citizens are considered as a valuable tool for policy makers, stakeholders, and educational institutions.
Impact of Smart, Green, Resilient, and Lean Manufacturing System on SMEs’Performance: A Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) Approach
Authors: Abdullah Ahmad , Saraswat Shantanu , Talib Faisal
Published: January 2023

In the present era of the fourth industrial revolution, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are adopting smart, green, resilient, and lean (SGRL) practices to enhance their performance and achieve sustainability. For SMEs to perform well in their supply chains and satisfy customers, the impact of the combined effects of SGRL manufacturing on SMEs’ performance needs to be studied. Although SGRL manufacturing has been studied independently in order to understand its impact on SMEs’ performance, there is still a need for significant research on its combined effect. The objective of the present work is to evaluate the performance of SMEs and to understand the combined effect of SGRL manufacturing on SMEs’ performance. This research applied the data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology to evaluate 30 SMEs identified in the northern region of India. A DEA model was developed that considers environmental, operational, and social performances as output criteria while considering SGRL practices as input criteria. Sixteen decision-making units (DMUs) were identified as inefficient using the DEA approach and one of them was considered for a case study for comparison with efficient SMEs. The case study employed a Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, and Threat (SWOT) analysis to provide remedial action to one of the selected underperforming SMEs, i.e.,SME11. The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of SME11 were identified and strategies were suggested by benchmarking SME11 with one of the efficient SMEs, i.e., SME23. The findings of this research work will help policymakers, owners, and managers of SMEs take necessary actions and enhance their performance by adopting the proposed DEA model using SGRL manufacturing practices.
Preferences of Experiential Fishing Tourism in a Marine Protected Area: A Study in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Authors: Alencastro Liliana A. , Carvache-Franco Mauricio , Carvache-Franco Wilmer
Published: January 2023

Destinations with marine protected areas due to their resources can offer visitors experiential fishing tourism. The tourist can carry out the fishing activity with the community and experience its culture in this activity. The present study’s objectives are (1) to establish which are the preference dimensions for experiential fishing tourism, (2) to determine which dimensions influence the interest to book an experiential fishing tour, and (3) to identify which dimension influences the importance of the visit. The research was carried out in the Galapagos Islands, a destination declared a marine protected area and a World Heritage Site. The study was conducted online with 229 tourists who had visited the destination. For the data analysis factorial analysis, the varimax rotation method, and the Kaiser criterion were used. In the second stage, the Multiple Regression Method was implemented. The results show that preferences in experiential fishing tourism are made up of two dimensions: “Conservation and local culture” and “Quality of services.” The conservation and local culture dimension positively influence the interest in booking a fishing tour and the importance of the visit. The results will serve as management guides for managers of destinations within marine protected areas and for the community that offers experiential fishing tourism.
On a System of Coupled Langevin Equations in the Frame of Generalized Liouville–Caputo Fractional Derivatives
Authors: Salman Hassan J. Al , Awadalla Muath , Subramanian Muthaiah , Abuasbeh Kinda
Published: January 2023

We investigate the existence and uniqueness results for coupled Langevin differential equations of fractional order with Katugampola integral boundary conditions involving generalized Liouville–Caputo fractional derivatives. Furthermore, we discuss Ulam–Hyers stability in the context of the problem at hand. The results are shown with examples. Results are asymmetric when a generalised Liouville–Caputo fractional derivative (ρ) parameter is changed. With its novel results, this paper makes a significant contribution to the relevant literature.
Innovative CODAS Algorithm for q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Information and Cancer Risk Assessment
Authors: Kausar Rukhsana , Farid Hafiz Muhammad Athar , Riaz Muhammad , Gonul Bilgin Nazmiye
Published: January 2023

Due to insufficient healthcare facilities for the fight against cancer, a large percentage of individuals die. Utilizing computational tools inside the health and medical system helps to minimize fatalities. Timely cancer detection enhances the likelihood of effective therapy. Cancer risk assessment is important for legal and regulatory reasons, for cancer prevention, and to avoid the risks. The approach for assessing cancer risk based on the q-rung orthopair fuzzy set (q-ROFS) is described. The technique is predicated on a multifactor evaluation of the likelihood of a cancerous. q-ROFS is a robust approach for modeling uncertainties in multicriteria decision making (MCDM). The combinative distance-based assessment (CODAS) technique integrates two separate approaches, namely the “simple additive weighting” (SAW) method and the “weighted product method (WPM)”. In this study, the CODAS approach is extended to the q-rung orthopair fuzzy framework with application to cancer risk assessment. Additionally, the symmetry of the optimal decision in cancer risk assessment is carried out by a comparison analysis of the suggested model with some existing models.
A Note on Matricial Ways to Compute Burt’s Structural Holes
Authors: Muscillo Alessio
Published: January 2023

In this note, I derive simple formulas based on the adjacency matrix of a network to compute measures associated with Ronald S. Burt’s structural holes (effective size, redundancy, local constraint, and constraint), together with the measure called improved structural holes introduced in 2017. This can help to see these measures within a unified computation framework because they can all be expressed in matricial form. These formulas can also be used to define naïve algorithms based on matrix operations for their computation. Such naïve algorithms can be used for small- and medium-sized networks, where exploiting the sparsity of the matrices and efficient triangle listing techniques are not necessary.
Clinical Immunogenicity of DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection in Glabellar Lines: Pooled Data from the SAKURA Phase 3 Trials
Authors: Gallagher Conor J. , Bowsher Ronald R. , Clancy Amanda , Dover Jeffrey S. , Humphrey Shannon , Liu Yan , Prawdzik Gregg
Published: January 2023

DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection (DAXI) is a novel botulinum toxin type A product containing daxibotulinumtoxinA with a stabilizing excipient peptide (RTP004). DAXI immunogenicity was assessed in three phase 3 glabellar line studies (two placebo-controlled, single-dose studies and an open-label repeat-dose safety study). Binding antibodies to daxibotulinumtoxinA and RTP004 were detected by validated ELISAs. Samples positive for daxibotulinumtoxinA-binding antibodies were evaluated further for titer and neutralizing antibodies by mouse protection assay. Overall, 2786 subjects received DAXI and 2823 subjects were exposed to RTP004 as DAXI (n = 2786) or placebo (n = 37). Treatment-related anti-daxibotulinumtoxinA binding antibodies were detected in 21 of 2737 evaluable subjects (0.8%). No subject developed neutralizing antibodies. Treatment-related anti-RTP004 binding antibodies were detected in 35 (1.3%) of 2772 evaluable subjects. Binding antibodies were generally transient, of low titer (<1:200), and no subject had binding antibodies to both daxibotulinumtoxinA and RTP004. All subjects with treatment-induced binding antibodies to daxibotulinumtoxinA or RTP004 achieved none or mild glabellar line severity at Week 4 following each DAXI cycle, indicating no impact on DAXI efficacy. No subjects with binding antibodies to daxibotulinumtoxinA or RTP004 reported immune-related adverse events. This evaluation of anti-drug antibody formation with DAXI shows low rates of antibody formation to both daxibotulinumtoxinA and RTP004.
The Adenovirus Vector Platform: Novel Insights into Rational Vector Design and Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Vaccine
Authors: Sallard Erwan , Zhang Wenli , Aydin Malik , Schröer Katrin , Ehrhardt Anja
Published: January 2023

The adenovirus vector platform remains one of the most efficient toolboxes for generation of transfer vehicles used in gene therapy and virotherapy to treat tumors, as well as vaccines to protect from infectious diseases. The adenovirus genome and capsids can be modified using highly efficient techniques, and vectors can be produced at high titers, which facilitates their rapid adaptation to current needs and disease applications. Over recent years, the adenovirus vector platform has been in the center of attention for vaccine development against the ongoing coronavirus SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pandemic. The worldwide deployment of these vaccines has greatly deepened the knowledge on virus-host interactions and highlighted the need to further improve the effectiveness and safety not only of adenovirus-based vaccines but also of gene therapy and oncolytic virotherapy vectors. Based on the current evidence, we discuss here how adenoviral vectors can be further improved by intelligent molecular design. This review covers the full spectrum of state-of-the-art strategies to avoid vector-induced side effects ranging from the vectorization of non-canonical adenovirus types to novel genome engineering techniques.
Improving Visual Comfort during Computer Gaming with Preservative-Free Hyaluronic Acid Artificial Tears Added to Ergophthalmological Measures
Authors: Trancoso Vaz Fernando , Fernández-López Ester , Roig-Revert María José , Martín Alicia , Peris-Martínez Cristina
Published: January 2023

Digital asthenopia (DA) or Computer Vision Syndrome can occur after prolonged use of digital devices and is usually managed with ergophthalmological measures and the use of artificial tears. This prospective, controlled study evaluated the use of hyaluronic acid artificial tears on the signs and symptoms of DA in participants of a videogame convention. Subjects (n = 56) were randomized into a control group (CG, n = 26), which followed ergophthalmological measures, and a study group (SG, n = 30), which followed ergophthalmological measures and instilled 1 drop of artificial tears with hyaluronic acid 0.15% four times a day. Subjects were evaluated before and after playing for three consecutive days for eye dryness (SPEED questionnaire), conjunctival hyperemia, corneal fluorescein staining, conjunctival lissamine green staining, tear breakup time, Schirmer I test, near convergence and accommodation, and using questionnaires for DA symptoms. After 3 days of intense videogaming, the SPEED score of CG increased significantly (p = 0.0320), while for the SG it was unchanged. Similarly, the CG presented significant increases in ocular fatigue (p = 0.0173) and dryness (p = 0.0463), while these parameters decreased significantly in the SG (p = 0.0149 and p = 0.00427, respectively). This study confirms the protective effect of hyaluronic acid artificial tears against DA symptoms associated with prolonged visual display terminal use.
Hydro-Environmental Sustainability of Crop Production under Socioeconomic Drought
Authors: Salari Samira , Karandish Fatemeh , Haghighat jou Parviz , Aldaya Maite M.
Published: January 2023

A comprehensive framework for revealing the jeopardization between SDGs 2 and 6 is provided in this study. Along with a water footprint (WF) assessment, the 30-years pattern of agricultural WFs and its hydro-environmental, social, and ecopolitical (SEP) consequences were quantified for the major food producer regions of Iran, as it is a water-bankrupted country under socioeconomic drought. In addition, the enforced impacts of major water/food-related policies on environmental sustainability were analyzed through an institutional assessment. During 1986–2016, BWS and GWD raised with annual average rates of 5% and 44%, respectively. Consequently, SEP status prospered along with an 18% increase in irrigated area, 198% in added-value by crop production and 5% by staple-crop exports, and 51% in the number of agricultural workers. The Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant tradeoff between self-supplied food availability and SEP. A 54% increase in food production occurred at the cost of 80% overexploitation in blue water resources and quality degradation. An annual average increase of 1.1% in P/ETo indicates the dominant role of anthropogenic interventions in such deteriorations. The institutional assessment demonstrated that environmental sustainability policies have never been applied as promoting policies to boost self-sufficiency in food production. According to the results, hydrological sustainability requires a transformative vision in national policies to exploit limited water and soil resources while preserving the environment.
Channel Deformations and Hazardous Processes of the Left-Bank Tributaries of The Angara River (Eastern Siberia)
Authors: Opekunova Marina Y. , Kichigina Natalia V. , Rybchenko Artem A. , Silaev Anton V.
Published: January 2023

The influence of anthropogenic and natural factors in the trends and mechanisms of development at various topological levels is determined based on relevant information on the structure and dynamics of fluvial systems in the south of Eastern Siberia in various geodynamic settings. This article considers the current spatial and temporal dynamics of the hydrological conditions of the vast territory of the Angara River and its influence on channel deformations and the manifestation of dangerous processes. An analysis of fluctuations in the maximum runoff using differential integral curves resulted in the identification of six periods of water content according to the maximum annual discharges for the period spanning from the beginning of observations to 2020 for the rivers under consideration. The dynamics and intensity of manifestation of hydrological and geological hazardous processes are demonstrated using a series of studies conducted under various geodynamic conditions. Catastrophic floods brought on by enhanced cyclonic activity are accompanied by the destruction of the bank. The highest rate of bank erosion in the plains is 1.5 to 2 m per year, and for rivers in mountains and piedmonts it is 2 to 6 m per year. An analysis of the dynamics of the development of floodplain–channel complexes in the Upper Angara region makes it possible to distinguish two zones of actively developing floodplain–channel complexes: piedmont and estuarine, separated by a relatively stable plain zone.
Carbon pawprint of heating systems depending on the type of the heat source
Authors: Gasho Evgeniy , Kiseleva Aleksandra , Fokin Aleksey
Published: January 2023

The article proposes to evaluate the impact of the heat supply system on the environment depending on the type of heat source and the proportion of heat losses in heat networks. The data obtained allow us to conclude that in order to minimize the amount of greenhouse gases in the heat supply of cities, heat supply schemes must be developed on the basis of a balance between centralized heat supply, decentralized and with the optimal share of heat generated by the heating cycle also.
Análise sobre o conhecimento e a taxa de adesão ao checklist de cirurgia segura pela equipe multidisciplinar para prevenção de complicações cirúrgicas
Authors: Silva Marcelo Paiva , Paludo Raquel Loren Reis , Arruda Jalsi Tacon
Published: January 2023

Tendo em vista o número elevado de cirurgias realizadas a cada ano, o Ministério da Saúde orienta que as instituições de saúde sigam o protocolo de cirurgia segura proposto pela Organização Mundial de Saúde. Esse protocolo visa prevenir ocorrências no intra e pós-operatório a fim de assegurar mais qualidade no serviço prestado, minimizando as chances de complicações e morbimortalidade do paciente. Dentre os instrumentos do protocolo está o checklist, uma ferramenta composta por pontos de checagem que repassa pontos críticos da cirurgia para evitar falhas da equipe antes, durante e após o término do procedimento. Contudo, para que seja efetiva deve haver uma boa adesão da equipe, seguindo os passos adequadamente. Assim o presente estudo analisou o conhecimento e a taxa de adesão ao checklist de cirurgia segura pelos profissionais envolvidos nos procedimentos cirúrgicos. Foi realizada uma revisão integrativa da literatura. Os termos utilizados foram: “safe surgery”, “safe surgery checklist” e “surgical team”, em buscas realizadas nas bases de dados: PubMed, SciELO, BVS e Google Acadêmico, restringindo o período das publicações para estudos entre 2012 e 2022. Foram selecionados 26 artigos e dois manuais incluídos na construção do presente trabalho. Os dados indicam que apesar da comprovada eficácia do checklist, a taxa de adesão entre os profissionais ainda é considerada baixa, principalmente entre cirurgiões, que alegam atrasos nos procedimentos ou até mesmo descrença na eficácia da ferramenta. Novos estudos devem ser realizados com o intuito de informar e discutir sobre a adesão e implementação do checklist nos centros cirúrgicos entre os agentes e instituições. De tal modo, será possível abranger mais profissionais bem como obter mais investimento em treinamentos e facilitações para a melhoria da qualidade e segurança no serviço prestado, minimizando as complicações nos procedimentos cirúrgicos.
Elaboração e a aceitação de massa alimentícia tipo nhoque adicionada com Ora-pro-nóbis (Pereskia aculeata Mill.)
Authors: Vargas Maria Eduarda Carvalho , Almeida Denise Aparecida de , Reis Helena dos , Reis Danuza Aparecida , Carvalho Jaqueline Roseli de , Nascimento Laura Câmara , Nascimento Lucas Augusto do , Silva Douglas Roberto Guimarães
Published: January 2023

A inovação e a produção de produtos à base de plantas passaram a ser tendências, sendo um assunto bastante promissor ao mercado de alimentos. Nesta circunstância, as Plantas Alimentícias não Convencionais (PANC’s) têm emergido como um potencial suplemento para a cadeia alimentar. O principal objetivo desse trabalho foi desenvolver formulações de massas alimentícias tipo nhoque com a adição de ora-pro-nóbis. Ainda, buscou verificar as características físico-químicas e sensoriais das amostras. Foram desenvolvidas três formulações de massas, com diferentes percentuais de ora-pro-nóbis (24%, 25% e 26%). As análises físico-químicas como: cor, pH e teor de umidade foram realizadas. A análise de aceitação global das formulações foi feita por meio de uma escala hedônica de 9 pontos. Para a análise estatística foi utilizada análise de variância (ANOVA) e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey (p<0,05) no Software SISVAR.  As médias de umidade dos nhoques adicionados foram, 60,23%, 58,60% e 60,12% para F1, F2 e F3, apresentando diferença significativa entre a F2 e as demais formulações (p<0,05). Com relação ao pH as amostras apresentaram médias de 5,49; 5,35 e 5,49, respectivamente. Para cor, os nhoques apresentaram uma tendência ao preto (L*), a cor verde (-a*) e amarela (+b). Na análise sensorial, as médias atribuídas a impressão global das amostras foram próximas à área de indiferença. O nhoque adicionado com ora-pro-nóbis mostrou-se como uma alternativa acessível e de baixo custo. No entanto, ainda há uma baixa aceitabilidade do produto, devido à resistência ao uso e ao consumo das hortaliças não convencionais.
Perfil epidemiológico de função e satisfação sexual em mulheres nulíparas, primíparas e multíparas com dor lombar crônica
Authors: Costenaro Tatiane da Silva , Neto Aprígio Pedro da Silva , Pereira Raiane Lima , Ribeiro Brendo da Silva , Santos Rafaela Carolina Camilo dos , Silva Sabrina Vales Vieira da , Nascimento Matheus Batista , Messa Sabrina Peviani
Published: January 2023

A sexualidade é considerada um dos fatores constituintes da vida do ser humano. Compreende-se que a função sexual feminina pode ser composta por quatro momentos: desejo, excitação, orgasmo e resolução. Já a satisfação sexual representa o grau de correspondência entre as expectativas da pessoa e a atividade sexual em si. O índice de função/satisfação sexual da mulher (FSFI) pode estar relacionado com diversos fatores, como dor lombar crônica e a relação entre o número de partos. A presente pesquisa objetivou investigar o perfil epidemiológico da função e satisfação sexual entre mulheres nulíparas, primíparas e multíparas com dor lombar crônica. Trata-se de um estudo de campo descritivo, transversal, qualiquantitativo e observacional, onde se realizou entrevistas a respeito do tema com 74 mulheres, sendo 32 nulíparas, 17 primíparas e 25 multíparas, analisando-se a variação de escores obtidos nos domínios desejo, excitação, lubrificação, orgasmo, satisfação e dor e o escore geral somando-se todas as variáveis, além de um critério de corte para estabelecimento do grau de FSI, podendo ser considerado bom ou ruim. As mulheres nulíparas apresentaram melhor índice de FSFI dentre os três grupos (27.91), enquanto as mulheres primíparas (25.24) e multíparas (25.01) apresentaram os piores índices de FSFI. Concluiu-se que, o perfil epidemiológico da FSFI em mulheres nulíparas, primíparas e multíparas com dor lombar crônica esteve relacionado ao número de partos, ou seja, mulheres sem filhos apresentaram menores déficits de função e satisfação sexual em relação a mulheres que já passaram por períodos gestacionais, independente do número de filhos.
Challenges and Opportunities Modeling the Dynamic Tumor Matrisome
Authors: Peyton Shelly R. , Platt Manu O. , Cukierman Edna
Published: January 2023

We need novel strategies to target the complexity of cancer and, particularly, of metastatic disease. As an example of this complexity, certain tissues are particularly hospitable environments for metastases, whereas others do not contain fertile microenvironments to support cancer cell growth. Continuing evidence that the extracellular matrix (ECM) of tissues is one of a host of factors necessary to support cancer cell growth at both primary and secondary tissue sites is emerging. Research on cancer metastasis has largely been focused on the molecular adaptations of tumor cells in various cytokine and growth factor environments on 2-dimensional tissue culture polystyrene plates. Intravital imaging, conversely, has transformed our ability to watch, in real time, tumor cell invasion, intravasation, extravasation, and growth. Because the interstitial ECM that supports all cells in the tumor microenvironment changes over time scales outside the possible window of typical intravital imaging, bioengineers are continuously developing both simple and sophisticated in vitro controlled environments to study tumor (and other) cell interactions with this matrix. In this perspective, we focus on the cellular unit responsible for upholding the pathologic homeostasis of tumor-bearing organs, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and their self-generated ECM. The latter, together with tumoral and other cell secreted factors, constitute the “tumor matrisome”. We share the challenges and opportunities for modeling this dynamic CAF/ECM unit, the tools and techniques available, and how the tumor matrisome is remodeled (e.g., via ECM proteases). We posit that increasing information on tumor matrisome dynamics may lead the field to alternative strategies for personalized medicine outside genomics.
A Neural Coordination Strategy for Attachment and Detachment of a Climbing Robot Inspired by Gecko Locomotion
Authors: Wang Bingcheng , Wang Zhouyi , Song Yifan , Zong Weijia , Zhang Linghao , Ji Keju , Manoonpong Poramate , Dai Zhendong
Published: January 2023

Climbing behavior is a superior motion skill that animals have evolved to obtain a more beneficial position in complex natural environments. Compared to animals, current bionic climbing robots are less agile, stable, and energy-efficient. Further, they locomote at a low speed and have poor adaptation to the substrate. One of the key elements that can improve their locomotion efficiency is the active and flexible feet or toes observed in climbing animals. Inspired by the active attachment–detachment behavior of geckos, a hybrid pneumatic–electric-driven climbing robot with active attachment–detachment bionic flexible feet (toes) was developed. Although the introduction of bionic flexible toes can effectively improve the robot’s adaptability to the environment, it also poses control challenges, specifically, the realization of attachment–detachment behavior by the mechanics of the feet, the realization of hybrid drive control with different response characteristics, and the interlimb collaboration and limb–foot coordination with a hysteresis effect. Through the analysis of geckos’ limbs and foot kinematic behavior during climbing, rhythmic attachment–detachment strategies and coordination behavior between toes and limbs at different inclines were identified. To enable the robot to achieve similar foot attachment–detachment behavior for climbing ability enhancement, we propose a modular neural control framework comprising a central pattern generator module, a post-processing central pattern generation module, a hysteresis delay line module, and an actuator signal conditioning module. Among them, the hysteresis adaptation module helps the bionic flexible toes to achieve variable phase relationships with the motorized joint, thus enabling proper limb-to-foot coordination and interlimb collaboration. The experiments demonstrated that the robot with neural control achieved proper coordination, resulting in a foot with a 285% larger adhesion area than that of a conventional algorithm. In addition, in the plane/arc climbing scenario, the robot with coordination behavior increased by as much as 150%, compared to the incoordinated one owing to its higher adhesion reliability.
An Effective Integrated Machine Learning Framework for Identifying Severity of Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus and Their Experimental Validation
Authors: Bupi Nattanong , Sangaraju Vinoth Kumar , Phan Le Thi , Lal Aamir , Vo Thuy Thi Bich , Ho Phuong Thi , Qureshi Muhammad Amir , Tabassum Marjia , Lee Sukchan , Manavalan Balachandran
Published: January 2023

Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) dispersed across different countries, specifically to subtropical regions, associated with more severe symptoms. Since TYLCV was first isolated in 1931, it has been a menace to tomato industrial production worldwide over the past century. Three groups were newly isolated from TYLCV-resistant tomatoes in 2022; however, their functions are unknown. The development of machine learning (ML)-based models using characterized sequences and evaluating blind predictions is one of the major challenges in interdisciplinary research. The purpose of this study was to develop an integrated computational framework for the accurate identification of symptoms (mild or severe) based on TYLCV sequences (isolated in Korea). For the development of the framework, we first extracted 11 different feature encodings and hybrid features from the training data and then explored 8 different classifiers and developed their respective prediction models by using randomized 10-fold cross-validation. Subsequently, we carried out a systematic evaluation of these 96 developed models and selected the top 90 models, whose predicted class labels were combined and considered as reduced features. On the basis of these features, a multilayer perceptron was applied and developed the final prediction model (IML-TYLCVs). We conducted blind prediction on 3 groups using IML-TYLCVs, and the results indicated that 2 groups were severe and 1 group was mild. Furthermore, we confirmed the prediction with virus-challenging experiments of tomato plant phenotypes using infectious clones from 3 groups. Plant virologists and plant breeding professionals can access the user-friendly online IML-TYLCVs web server at
https://balalab-skku.org/IML-TYLCVs
, which can guide them in developing new protection strategies for newly emerging viruses.