bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Need for Consumer-Focused Household Food Waste Reduction Policies Using Dietary Patterns and Socioeconomic Status as Predictors: A Study on Wheat Bread Waste in Shiraz, Iran
Authors: Ghaziani Shahin , Ghodsi Delaram , Schweikert Karsten , Dehbozorgi Gholamreza , Rasekhi Hamid , Faghih Shiva , Doluschitz Reiner
Published: September 2022

Current household food waste (HFW) reduction plans usually focus on raising consumer awareness, which is essential but insufficient because HFW is predominantly attributed to unconscious behavioral factors that vary across consumer groups. Therefore, identifying such factors is crucial for predicting HFW levels and establishing effective plans. This study explored the role of dietary patterns (DP) and socioeconomic status (SES) as predictors of HBW using linear and non-linear regression models. Questionnaire interviews were performed in 419 households in Shiraz during 2019. A multilayer sampling procedure including stratification, clustering, and systematic sampling was used. Three main DPs, i.e., unhealthy, Mediterranean, and traditional, were identified using a food frequency questionnaire. Results indicated that a one-unit rise in the household’s unhealthy DP score was associated with an average increase in HBW of 0.40%. Similarly, a one-unit increase in the unhealthy DP score and the SES score increased the relative likelihood of bread waste occurrence by 25.6% and 14.5%, respectively. The comparison of findings revealed inconsistencies in HFW data, and therefore the necessity of studying HFW links to factors such as diet and SES. Further investigations that explore HFW associations with household characteristics and behavioral factors will help establish contextual and effective consumer-focused plans.
Characterisation and Identification of Individual Intact Goat Muscle Samples (Capra sp.) Using a Portable Near-Infrared Spectrometer and Chemometrics
Authors: Hoffman Louwrens C. , Ingle Prasheek , Khole Ankita Hemant , Zhang Shuxin , Yang Zhiyin , Beya Michel , Bureš Daniel , Cozzolino Daniel
Published: September 2022

Adulterated, poor-quality, and unsafe foods, including meat, are still major issues for both the food industry and consumers, which have driven efforts to find alternative technologies to detect these challenges. This study evaluated the use of a portable near-infrared (NIR) instrument, combined with chemometrics, to identify and classify individual-intact fresh goat muscle samples. Fresh goat carcasses (n = 35; 19 to 21.7 Kg LW) from different animals (age, breeds, sex) were used and separated into different commercial cuts. Thus, the longissimus thoracis et lumborum, biceps femoris, semimembranosus, semitendinosus, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus muscles were removed and scanned (900–1600 nm) using a portable NIR instrument. Differences in the NIR spectra of the muscles were observed at wavelengths of around 976 nm, 1180 nm, and 1430 nm, associated with water and fat content (e.g., intramuscular fat). The classification of individual muscle samples was achieved by linear discriminant analysis (LDA) with acceptable accuracies (68–94%) using the second-derivative NIR spectra. The results indicated that NIR spectroscopy could be used to identify individual goat muscles.
Study on Active Particles in Air Plasma and Their Effect on α-Amylase
Authors: Chen Cunshe , Sun Ruohao , Liu Ping , Yang Jufang , Ouyang Zhixuan , Pang Zhihua
Published: September 2022

As a new technology for food processing, plasma has good prospects for protein modification. This study investigated the effect of plasma on the activity of the α-amylase. The composition of the active particles in air plasma generated by spark discharge was analyzed and determined. Furthermore, the quantitative analysis of the active particles such as H2O2, O3, and -OH was made by the chemical detection method. Powdered α-amylase was treated with plasma in various conditions, in which α-amylase and the variation of α-amylase activity under the action of air plasma were quantitatively analyzed. The results showed that the concentration of active particles in the system was positively correlated with the action time for air plasma. After 5 min of plasma action, the concentration of O3 and H2O2 was large enough for food disinfection, but the concentration of -OH was smaller and its lifetime was extremely short. Moreover, it was determined that the optimum action time for the activation of solid powdered α-amylase by air plasma was 120 s. With higher energy, the air plasma acts directly on solid powdered α-amylase to destroy its spatial structure, resulting in enzyme inactivation, sterilization, and disinfection.
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from Adenaria floribunda Stem: Economic Assessment
Authors: Lopeda-Correa Miguel , Valdés-Duque Beatriz E. , Osorio-Tobón J. Felipe
Published: September 2022

Adenaria floribunda is a native species found in tropical regions of South America used as a traditional medicine. Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) is an extraction process known to increase the extraction yield, reduce extraction times, and use low temperatures. This study aims to obtain water-based extracts from A. floribunda stems using UAE, hot water extraction (HWE), and Soxhlet extraction and perform an economic analysis. The global extraction yield (GEY) and total phenolic compounds (TPC) of extracts ranged from 5.24% to 10.48% and from 1.9 ± 0.44 mg GAE g−1 DW to 6.38 ± 0.28 mg GAE g−1, respectively. Gallic acid, catechin, and ferulic acid were identified in the extract using HPLC-UV. Results indicate that Soxhlet extraction has the best performance regarding GEY and TPC. However, after performing an economic assessment, the cost of manufacturing (COM) of Soxhlet extraction (US$ 5.8 flask−1) was higher than the UAE (US$ 3.86 flask−1) and HWE (US$ 3.92 flask−1). The sensitivity results showed that obtaining extracts from A. floribunda by UAE and HWE is economically feasible when the selling price is above US$ 4 flask−1. Soxhlet extraction is a feasible technique when the selling price is above US$ 7 flask−1.
Cooking Quality and Chemical and Technological Characteristics of Wholegrain Einkorn Pasta Obtained from Micronized Flour
Authors: Gazza Laura , Galassi Elena , Nocente Francesca , Natale Chiara , Taddei Federica
Published: September 2022

The increased demand for healthier foods, the recognition of dry pasta as an ideal carrier of functional ingredients, and the current interest for ancient wheats such as einkorn motivated the present research. Two varieties of Triticum monococcum, namely cv Norberto and the free-threshing cv Hammurabi, were milled by ultra-fine milling process (micronization) to produce wholegrain spaghetti. Einkorn pasta was assessed in terms of technological and biochemical properties and cooking and sensorial quality and compared to durum wheat semolina pasta. Wholewheat einkorn pasta showed a threefold increase in total dietary fibre content as well as in total antioxidant capacity in comparison to the control. The level of resistant starch in cv Norberto resulted significantly higher respect to semolina and einkorn cv Hammurabi pasta. Despite the very weak einkorn gluten network, the sensory and instrumental assessment of pasta quality highlighted that einkorn spaghetti presented good sensorial properties related to their technological quality, in particular, for the overall judgment and firmness. Cultivar Hammurabi emerged as the preeminent compromise on the basis of technological performances together with chemical and sensorial aspects.
Preliminary Assessment of Repellency and Toxicity of Essential Oils against Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) on Stored Organic Corn Grains
Authors: Eesiah Sawo , Yu Jianmei , Dingha Beatrice , Amoah Barbara , Mikiashvili Nona
Published: September 2022

Insect infestation of cereal grains during post-harvest storage not only causes significant grain loss, but also reduces grain quality and makes grains more susceptible to mold infection. Synthetic pesticides are banned from being used in organic grain storage setting due to their high toxicity. The main insect damaging stored corn grains is maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). The purpose of this study was to evaluate insect repellency and insecticidal potentials of some generally recognized as safe (GRAS) essential oils (EOs) (including cinnamon, clove, thyme, oregano, and orange terpene oils) at concentrations of 1–20% against the maize weevil using an olfactometer and a simulated fumigation method, respectively. The olfactory tests show that cinnamon oil had the highest repellency (90%) to the weevils among the EOs tested. The insecticidal activity study indicates that maize weevil mortality increased with EO concentration and storage time with cinnamon, clove, and thyme oils being more effective. No weevil death was observed at 1% EOs; weevil mortality was 3.3–36% at 5%, which varied with the type of EO and storage time. At 10% or higher concentrations, all tested EO showed comparable or higher insecticidal activity than pirimiphos methyl-positive control at its recommended concentration (5 mg/kg corn). No significant increase in weevil mortality was observed with further increase in EO concentration, with exceptions of oregano oil and thyme oil. The highest weevil mortality levels were observed at week 7 for 15% cinnamon oil (100%) and eugenol (100%), followed by 20% thyme oil (93%). The study indicates that some EOs have great potential to serve as synthetic insecticide alternatives to protect organic corn grains from maize weevil damage during storage. This is important to food security, safety and environmental health.
Influence of Different Aggregation States on Volatile Organic Compounds Released by Dairy Kluyveromyces marxianus Strains
Authors: Perpetuini Giorgia , Tittarelli Fabrizia , Perla Carlo , Tofalo Rosanna
Published: September 2022

Kluyveromyces marxianus has the ability to contribute to the aroma profile of foods and beverages since it is able to produce several volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this study, 8 dairy K. marxianus strains, previously selected for their adhesion properties, were tested for VOCs production when grown in different conditions: planktonic, biofilm-detached, and MATS forming-cells. It was shown that biofilm-detached cells were mainly able to produce higher alcohols (64.57 mg/L), while esters were mainly produced by planktonic and MATS forming-cells (117.86 and 94.90 mg/L, respectively). Moreover, K. marxianus biofilm-detached cells were able to produce VOCs with flavor and odor impacts, such as ketons, phenols, and terpenes, which were not produced by planktonic cells. In addition, specific unique compounds were associated to the different conditions tested. Biofilm-detached cells were characterized by the production of 9 unique compounds, while planktonic and MATS forming-cells by 7 and 12, respectively. The obtained results should be exploited to modulate the volatilome of foods and beverages and improve the production of certain compounds at the industrial level. Further studies will be carried out to better understand the genetic mechanisms underlying the metabolic pathways activated under different conditions.
A Mixed Finite Volume Element Method for Time-Fractional Damping Beam Vibration Problem
Authors: Wang Tongxin , Jiang Ziwen , Zhu Ailing , Yin Zhe
Published: September 2022

In this paper, the transverse vibration of a fractional viscoelastic beam is studied based on the fractional calculus, and the corresponding scheme of a viscoelastic beam is established by using the mixed finite volume element method. The stability and convergence of the algorithm are analyzed. Numerical examples demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm. Finally, the values of different parameter sets are tested, and the test results show that both the damping coefficient and the fractional derivative have significant effects on the model. The results of this paper can be used for the damping modeling of viscoelastic structures.
On the Link between the Langevin Equation and the Coagulation Kernels of Suspended Nanoparticles
Authors: Morán José
Published: September 2022

The ability of the Langevin equation to predict coagulation kernels in the transition regime (ranging from ballistic to diffusive) is not commonly discussed in the literature, and previous numerical works are lacking a theoretical justification. This work contributes to the conversation to gain better understanding on how the trajectories of suspended particles determine their collision frequency. The fundamental link between the Langevin equation and coagulation kernels based on a simple approximation of the former is discussed. The proposed approximation is compared to a fractal model from the literature. In addition, a new, simple expression for determining the coagulation kernels in the transition regime is proposed. The new expression is in good agreement with existing methods such as the flux-matching approach proposed by Fuchs. The new model predicts an asymptotic limit for the kinetics of coagulation in the transition regime.
A Rural Transport Implementation Index for Connected, Autonomous and Electric Vehicles
Authors: Walters Joseph , Marsh Stuart , Rodrigues Lucelia
Published: September 2022

With connected, autonomous and electric vehicles (CAEV) developing rapidly, there is a need to better support their implementation into rural scenarios, where there are numerous transport challenges. The potential safety, efficiency and sustainability benefits of CAEVs could provide significant value for rural communities if implemented correctly. However, transport planner knowledge of CAEVs and their digital and physical infrastructure requirements in the UK is limited and, despite interest, there is little time or resources available to effectively explore rural CAEV implementation potential. This paper therefore describes the methodology behind, and development of, the CAEV Rural Transport Index (CARTI), based on existing literature and a combination of existing and developed indicators. The CARTI’s purpose is to identify the levels of need, capacity and overall potential of different rural areas to support rural CAEV implementation. Application of the CARTI to several case study areas reveals a range of benefits, reviewed through workshops with local transport professionals. Ultimately, the CARTI is identified as a much-needed tool to support the implementation of CAEVs in rural areas, with potential for further development to establish it as a successful and long-term planning tool.
Mass-Accreting Pulsating Components of Algols
Authors: Mkrtichian David , Gunsriviwat Khemsinan , Lehmann Holger , Engelbrecht Chris , Tkachenko Andrew , Nazarenko Victor
Published: September 2022

We present a review of the latest results of studies of the class of mass-accreting pulsating components of semi-detached eclipsing binaries known as oEA stars. The application of the techniques of asteroseismology to this class of stars unlocks new pathways for gaining a deeper understanding of the short-term evolution and magnetic activity of binary stars. We report the discovery of 49 new pulsating components of eclipsing binaries, based on data from NASA’s TESS space telescope. Recent observational results on the pulsation characteristics of these stars are summarized. The effects of the interaction of the magnetic and spot activity of the Roche-lobe-filling component of a system with the pulsations of the mass-accreting component are discussed.
Physicochemical, Morphological, Thermal, and Rheological Properties of Native Starches Isolated from Four Cultivars of Anchote (Coccinia abyssinica (Lam.) Cogn.) Tuber
Authors: Wolde Yohannes Tolesa , Emire Shimelis Admassu , Abebe Workineh , Ronda Felicidad
Published: September 2022

Anchote (Coccinia abyssinica (Lam.) Cogn) is a potentially important source of starch and an underutilized root and tuber crop indigenous to Ethiopia. In this study, the physicochemical, morphological, thermal, and rheological properties of native starches isolated from four cultivars of anchote tubers were studied and compared to potato and cassava starches, which were considered as references. The amylose content of anchote starches varied from 15.8–22.3%. The anchote cultivars showed different granule sizes, but all revealed a B-type crystalline structure, identical to potato starch. The phosphorus content of anchote starches ranged from 82–93 mg/100 g and was much higher than that of potato and cassava (60.3 and 5.8 mg/100 g, respectively). This characteristic could govern several functional properties of anchote starches, making them suitable for applications in different types of noodles, glucose syrups, and viscous products. The gelatinization temperature and enthalpy of anchote starches, which ranged from 60.97 °C to 69.33 °C and 16.87 to 18.38 J/g, respectively, were considerably different compared to potato and cassava starches. Significant variations were also observed among the pasting properties of starches from anchote cultivars. They showed a higher stability to heating and shearing, having higher TV (2046 to 2280 mPa·s) and lower BV (248 to 487 mPa·s) values, and a higher final viscosity (3409 to 3686 mPa·s) than potato and cassava, which are important characteristics in food processing and when high gel viscosity is required after cooling. Anchote starch gels exhibited rheological characteristics of true gels, showing much lower (tan δ)1 values and significantly higher viscoelastic moduli than those found in cassava and potato gels. The present study revealed significant differences among the physicochemical properties of anchote starches, depending on the cultivar, and demonstrated their promising potential in food product development and other industrial applications.
A Molecular Description of Hydrogel Forming Polymers for Cement-Based Printing Paste Applications
Authors: Taheri-Afarani Hajar , Mamontov Eugene , Carroll William R. , Biernacki Joseph J.
Published: September 2022

This research endeavors to link the physical and chemical characteristics of select polymer hydrogels to differences in printability when used as printing aids in cement-based printing pastes. A variety of experimental probes including differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), NMR-diffusion ordered spectroscopy (DOSY), quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS) using neutron backscattering spectroscopy, and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), along with molecular dynamic simulations, were used. Conjectures based on objective measures of printability and physical and chemical-molecular characteristics of the polymer gels are emerging that should help target printing aid selection and design, and mix formulation. Molecular simulations were shown to link higher hydrogen bond probability and larger radius of gyration to higher viscosity gels. Furthermore, the higher viscosity gels also produced higher elastic properties, as measured by neutron backscattering spectroscopy.
Development of Vaginal Carriers Based on Chitosan-Grafted-PNIPAAm for Progesterone Administration
Authors: Afloarea Oana-Teodora , Cheaburu Yilmaz Catalina Natalia , Verestiuc Liliana , Bibire Nela
Published: September 2022

Chitosan-based hydrogels possess numerous advantages, such as biocompatibility and non-toxicity, and it is considered a proper material to be used in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Vaginal administration of progesterone represents a viable alternative for maintaining pregnancy and reducing the risk of miscarriage and in supporting the corpus luteum during fertilization cycles. This study aimed to develop new formulations for vaginal administration of progesterone (PGT). A previously synthesized responsive chitosan-grafted-poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) (CS-g-PNIPAAm) was formulated in various compositions with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as external crosslinking agent to obtain pH- and temperature-dependent hydrogels; the hydrogels had the capacity to withstand shear forces encountered in the vagina due to its mechanism of swelling once in contact with vaginal fluids. Three different hydrogels based on grafted chitosan were analyzed via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), swelling tests, in vitro drug release, and bioadhesion properties by TA.XTplus texture analysis. A higher amount of PVA decreased the swelling and the bioadhesion capacities of the hydrogel. All hydrogels showed sensitivity to temperature and pH in terms of swelling and in vitro delivery characteristics. By loading progesterone, the studied hydrogels seemed to possess even higher sensitivity than drug–free matrices. The release profile of the active substance and the bioadhesion characteristics recommended the CS-g-PNIPAAm/PVA 80/20 +PGT (P1) hydrogel as a proper constituent for the vaginal formulation for progesterone administration.
U–Pb Geochronology and Stable Isotope Geochemistry of Terrestrial Carbonates, Lower Cretaceous Cedar Mountain Formation, Utah: Implications for Synchronicity of Terrestrial and Marine Carbon Isotope Excursions
Authors: Gulbranson Erik L. , Rasbury E. Troy , Ludvigson Greg A. , Möller Andreas , Henkes Gregory A. , Suarez Marina B. , Northrup Paul , Tappero Ryan V. , Maxson Julie A. , Shapiro Russell S. , Wooton Kathleen M.
Published: September 2022

The terrestrial Lower Cretaceous Cedar Mountain Formation, Utah, is a critical archive of paleoclimate, tectonics, and vertebrate ecology and evolution. Early Cretaceous carbon cycle perturbations associated with ocean anoxia have been interpreted from this succession, as expressed in stable carbon isotopes. However, refining the timing of the observed stable isotope excursions remains a key challenge in understanding how marine anoxia affects the Earth system, and is ultimately recorded in the terrestrial realm. The geochronology and geochemistry of a terrestrial carbonate near the base of this succession, which potentially records the Ap7 global carbon isotope excursion, is studied here. Petrographic and geochemical analyses are used to test plausible mechanisms for U incorporation into the calcite lattice in this sample. Using these methods, the hypothesis that the incorporation of U was at or close to the timing of carbonate precipitation is evaluated. U–Pb geochronology of calcite indicates a plausible Early Cretaceous age. However, comparison of the new U–Pb ages of calcite with detrital zircon maximum depositional ages immediately beneath the studied sample indicates a disparity in the apparent sedimentation rates if both types of geochronologic information are interpreted as reflecting the timing of sediment deposition. The totality of data supports an early, and high-temperature, diagenetic timing of U incorporation, with potential for minor leaching of U in subsequent fluid–rock interaction. The most likely mechanism for U transport and immobilization in these samples is hydrothermal fluid–rock interaction. Therefore, the radiometric ages, and corresponding stable isotope composition of U-bearing carbonate domains in this sample, indicate early subsurface fluid–rock interactions and not a record of atmosphere–soil geochemical reactions.
Is It Worth Assessing Geodiversity Numerically? A Comparative Analysis between Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches in Miguel Pereira Municipality, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Gonçalves Jéssica , Mansur Kátia , Santos Daniel , Henriques Renato , Pereira Paulo
Published: September 2022

The interest in the cartographic representation of geodiversity has grown in recent years. However, the application of geodiversity maps in nature conservation and territorial management policies is still under study, especially concerning quantitative methodologies and geodiversity indices. Aiming to contribute to this topic, a set of correlation analyses were performed between quantitative and qualitative maps, as well as correlations between these and sites of geological interest, land-use, and vegetation maps using Miguel Pereira municipality, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as a study area. A geodiversity index map (quantitative approach) was used, and a geodiversity map (qualitative approach) was produced based on GIS procedures and tools through a counting technique and the association between landforms and, geology, soils, and hydrology, respectively. The geodiversity map showed a better correlation between geodiversity and the other nature and anthropic elements, while the quantitative assessment, although having a positive correlation with those elements, showed a weak or very weak correlation. The cartographic outputs in geodiversity units (qualitative approach) best supported this correlative analysis highlighting its use in land-use and nature conservation management. In contrast, the geodiversity index map showed complementary information and could be combined with the qualitative approach for more sustained results.
Repositioning Drugs for Rare Diseases Based on Biological Features and Computational Approaches
Authors: Otero-Carrasco Belén , Prieto Santamaría Lucía , Ugarte Carro Esther , Caraça-Valente Hernández Juan Pedro , Rodríguez-González Alejandro
Published: September 2022

Rare diseases are a group of uncommon diseases in the world population. To date, about 7000 rare diseases have been documented. However, most of them do not have a known treatment. As a result of the relatively low demand for their treatments caused by their scarce prevalence, the pharmaceutical industry has not sufficiently encouraged the research to develop drugs to treat them. This work aims to analyse potential drug-repositioning strategies for this kind of disease. Drug repositioning seeks to find new uses for existing drugs. In this context, it seeks to discover if rare diseases could be treated with medicines previously indicated to heal other diseases. Our approaches tackle the problem by employing computational methods that calculate similarities between rare and non-rare diseases, considering biological features such as genes, proteins, and symptoms. Drug candidates for repositioning will be checked against clinical trials found in the scientific literature. In this study, 13 different rare diseases have been selected for which potential drugs could be repositioned. By verifying these drugs in the scientific literature, successful cases were found for 75% of the rare diseases studied. The genetic associations and phenotypical features of the rare diseases were examined. In addition, the verified drugs were classified according to the anatomical therapeutic chemical (ATC) code to highlight the types with a higher predisposition to be repositioned. These promising results open the door for further research in this field of study.
Nutritional Knowledge and Attitudes among Physician Interns Graduated from King Abdul-Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bawazir Zainab , Alrasheedi Amani , Aljehany Buthaina
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to assess the nutritional knowledge and attitudes of physician interns graduated from King Abdul-Aziz University. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 physician interns who graduated in 2019, 2020, and 2021. An online self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. A modified version of a validated questionnaire was used and provided to the participants in both Arabic and English versions, of which participants could choose one. This questionnaire consisted of three sections, including demographic data (five questions), attitude (47 questions), and knowledge (40 questions). A total of 100 (54 female and 46 male) participants completed the questionnaire. The nutrition and diabetes axis had the highest percentage of correct answers among the knowledge axes (55.6%), while the percentage of correct answers for the axis of nutrition and heart disease was the lowest (44%). There were no significant differences among most of the knowledge axes according to sex. However, there were significant differences between the averages of the answers of the male and female groups in the axis of nutrition and obesity only, where the male group had more correct answers than the female group. The average attitude of the study participants was almost good, with slight differences between males and females. A total of 51% of the participants were satisfied with the medical nutrition curriculum. The inadequacy of the nutritional curriculum among medical students was reflected in their satisfaction with their college programs and thus in their knowledge, attitudes, and confidence in providing nutritional counseling to patients. Intern physicians need to improve their clinical nutrition knowledge and skills to be able to provide patients with appropriate nutrition advice.
Effect of Low-Intensity Aerobic Training Combined with Blood Flow Restriction on Body Composition, Physical Fitness, and Vascular Responses in Recreational Runners
Authors: Beak Hyoung Jean , Park Wonil , Yang Ji Hye , Kim Jooyoung
Published: September 2022

This study investigated the effect of low-intensity aerobic training combined with blood flow restriction (LABFR) on body composition, physical fitness, and vascular functions in recreational runners. The participants were 30 healthy male recreational runners, randomized between the LABFR (n = 15) and control (n = 15) groups. The LABFR group performed five sets of a repeated pattern of 2 min running at 40% VO2max and 1 min passive rest, while wearing the occlusion cuff belts on the proximal end of the thigh. The frequency was three times a week for the period of eight weeks. The control group performed the identical running protocol without wearing the occlusion cuff belts. At the end of the training, the participants’ body composition (fat mass, body fat, muscle mass, and right and left thigh circumference), physical fitness (power and VO2max), and vascular responses (flow-mediated dilation (FMD), brachial ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), ankle brachial index (ABI), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP)) were measured. The results showed a significant time × group interaction effect on muscle mass (F = 53.242, p = 0.001, ηp2 = 0.664) and right thigh circumference (F = 4.544, p = 0.042, ηp2 = 0.144), but no significant variation in any other factors, including fat mass, body fat, left thigh circumference, FMD, baPWV, ABI, SBP, and DBP (p > 0.05). Overall, our results suggested that eight-week LABFR exerted a positive effect on the body composition, especially muscle mass and thigh circumference, of recreational runners.
The Structural Relationship on Nostalgia Recognition Effect, Attachment, Resilience, and Psychological Well-Being of Dance for All Participants during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lim Sun-Young , Min Hyun-Joo , Kim Yong-Hwan
Published: September 2022

Background and objectives: During the current era, the world is experiencing economic and mental depression due to COVID-19. In this context, this study empirically analyzed the relationship between the nostalgia recognition effect, a unique human emotion that can improve emotional comfort and stability, and physical activity that can effectively benefit human health; Methods: 550 “dance for all” participants who joined public sports facilities, private gymnasiums, cultural centers, and dance for all clubs in South Korea. Data analysis was performed on Windows PC/SPSS 26.0 and AMOS 24.0 ver. frequency analysis, correlation analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the survey results; Results: First, all sub-factors of the nostalgia recognition effect of dance for all participants has a statistically significant (p < 0.001) effect on attachment. Second, attachment has a statistically significant (p < 0.001) effect on resilience. Third, attachment does not have a statistically significant (p < 0.05) effect on psychological well-being of dance for all participants; Conclusions: These research results are prepared effective operating strategies and plans for the era of “post-corona” and “with corona” in the field of human health and dance for all.
Conduction Velocity of Spinal Reflex in Patients with Acute Lateral Ankle Sprain
Authors: Kim Joo-Sung , Kim Kyung-Min , Chang Eunwook , Jung Hyun Chul , Lee Jung-Min , Needle Alan R.
Published: September 2022

Recent literature has highlighted altered spinal-reflex excitability following acute lateral ankle sprain (ALAS), yet there is little information on the conduction velocity of spinal reflex pathways (CV-SRP) in these patients. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of ALAS on the CV-SRP. We employed a cross-sectional study with two groups: ALAS (n = 30) and healthy controls (n = 30). The CV-SRP of the soleus, fibularis longus, and tibialis anterior was assessed using the H-index method. As secondary outcomes, H-reflex and M-wave latencies were assessed as well as acute symptoms including ankle swelling, pain, and self-reported ankle function. Separate group-by-limb ANOVA with repeated measures revealed a significant interaction for soleus CV-SRP (p < 0.001) and H-reflex latency (p < 0.001), showing significant slower CV-SRP and longer H-reflex latency in the involved limb of the ALAS group compared with both limbs in the control group. However, there was no significant interaction or main effect in any other ankle muscles (p > 0.05). A further correlation analysis showed a significant relationship between CV-SRP and acute symptoms, including ankle swelling (r = −0.37, p = 0.048) and self-reported ankle function (r = 0.44, p = 0.017) in ALAS patients. These results suggest a disrupted functionality of the afferent pathway and/or synaptic transmission following ALAS. Level of Evidence: 4.
Contested Heritage or Cancel Culture? The Case of Ivan Meštrović’s Public Sculptures in Chicago
Authors: Jelinčić Daniela Angelina , Reap James K.
Published: September 2022

Social conflicts and political pressures represent a specific man-made hazard for heritage protection and result in contested heritage. One of the recent cases, Equestrian Indians publicly displayed in Chicago, was the subject of contestation following the Black Lives Matter protests. The aim of this paper was to critically assess heritage contestation in this case study, also demonstrating other factors influencing heritage contestation than those so far detected in theory, and to find possible coping strategies. Qualitative mixed methods were applied: desk research, critical instance case study, and unstructured interviews. Analysis was completed in line with four theories (international relations theory, collective memory theory, social movement theory and cancel culture) and the results showed: (a) that the case had no greater effect on international relations of the USA and Croatia; (b) a new type of dissonance: a reversed contestation based on a distorted narrative; (c) illusory resistance in the social movement theory; (d) a new theory termed “cancel heritage”, denoting the cancel culture features a spill-over to a collective memory. Possible coping strategies for heritage protection point to the need for a more nuanced participatory approach while forgetting, but possibly the most effective method leading to a collective psychological liberation is hardly achievable.
UVA Enhanced Promotive Effects of Blue Light on the Antioxidant Capacity and Anthocyanin Biosynthesis of Pak Choi
Authors: Huang Jing , Liu Xinying , Yang Qichang , Lei Bingfu , Zheng Yinjian , Bian Zhonghua , Wang Sen , Li Wei , Mao Pengpeng , Xu Yaliang
Published: September 2022

Anthocyanins are widely common natural antioxidants and represent an important economic feature in vegetables, but the potential response of UVA–blue co-irradiation on the anthocyanin biosynthesis of pak choi is not clear. Here, we investigated the effects of the supplement of four doses of UVA to blue light on growth, metabolites and the anthocyanin biosynthesis of two cultivars of pak choi. The results revealed that supplementing UVA light to blue light positively affected the growth of the pak choi and elevated the soluble protein content and antioxidant capacity. Especially, when compared with a monochromatic blue light, the anthocyanin synthesis was enhanced with an increase in UVA light strength, which reached a peak value at the strength of 10 μmol·m−2·s−1. Further study revealed that the UVA–blue co-irradiation enhanced the transcription of partial light-induced and anthocyanin structural genes. The intraspecific difference in the expression patterns of MYB1 and PAP1 were observed in these two tested cultivars. MYB1 was significantly up-regulated in red-leaf pak choi, but down-regulated in purple-leaf pak choi. On the contrary, PAP1 was significantly up-regulated in purple-leaf pak choi, but down-regulated in red-leaf pak choi. To sum up, this study established an efficient pre-harvest lighting strategy to elevate the economic value of pak choi.
Is There a Missing Link? Exploring the Effects of Institutional Pressures on Environmental Performance in the Chinese Construction Industry
Authors: Lee Dongmei , Fu Yuxia , Zhou Daijiao , Nie Tao , Song Zhihong
Published: September 2022

Although institutional pressures have huge strategic implications for organizational activities, this certainly does not mean that organizations under institutional pressures can improve environmental performance automatically. Institutional pressures are critical but not sufficient to affect environmental performance directly. Therefore, additional research is needed to explore the missing link between institutional pressures and environmental performance. Based on the “pressure-response-performance” framework, this study integrates perspectives of institutional theory and organizational learning to argue the mediating role of organizational learning in the relationship between institutional pressures and environmental performance. Data were collected via 268 valid questionnaires from construction firms located in Shanxi Province in central China. Hypotheses in the conceptual model were tested with structural equation modeling. Empirical results reveal that both coercive and mimetic pressures have significantly positive effects on organizational learning, whereas normative pressures have a non-significant effect on organizational learning. Besides that, organizational learning has a significantly positive effect on environmental performance. In addition, organizational learning partially mediates the relationship between coercive pressures and environmental performance and completely mediates the relationship between mimetic pressures and environmental performance. By exploring the mediating role of organizational learning, the article uncovers the missing link in the relationship between institutional pressures and environmental performance.
Generalization of Linear and Area Features Incorporating a Shape Measure
Authors: Blana Natalia , Tsoulos Lysandros
Published: September 2022

This article elaborates on the quality issue in cartographic generalization of linear and area features focusing on the assessment of shape preservation. Assessing shape similarity in generalization is still a topic where further research is required. In the study presented here, shape description and matching techniques are investigated and analyzed, a procedure for choosing generalization parameters suitable for line and area features depiction is described and a quality model is developed for the assessment and verification of the generalization results. Based on the procedure developed, cartographers will be confident that the generalization of linear and area features is appropriate for a specific scale of portrayal fulfilling on the same time a basic requirement in generalization, that of shape preservation. The results of the procedure developed are based on the processing and successful generalization of a large number of different line and area features that is supported by a software environment developed in Python programming language.
Climate Justice in the City: Mapping Heat-Related Risk for Climate Change Mitigation of the Urban and Peri-Urban Area of Padua (Italy)
Authors: Todeschi Valeria , Pappalardo Salvatore Eugenio , Zanetti Carlo , Peroni Francesca , Marchi Massimo De
Published: September 2022

The mitigation of urban heat islands (UHIs) is crucial for promoting the sustainable development of urban areas. Geographic information systems (GISs) together with satellite-derived data are powerful tools for investigating the spatiotemporal distribution of UHIs. Depending on the availability of data and the geographic scale of the analysis, different methodologies can be adopted. Here, we show a complete open source GIS-based methodology based on satellite-driven data for investigating and mapping the impact of the UHI on the heat-related elderly risk (HERI) in the Functional Urban Area of Padua. Thermal anomalies in the territory were mapped by modelling satellite data from Sentinel-3. After a socio-demographic analysis, the HERI was mapped according to five levels of risk. The highest vulnerability levels were localised within the urban area and in three municipalities near Padua, which represent about 20% of the entire territory investigated. In these municipalities, a percentage of elderly people over 20%, a thermal anomaly over 2.4 °C, and a HERI over 0.65 were found. Based on these outputs, it is possible to define nature-based solutions for reducing the UHI phenomenon and promote a sustainable development of cities. Stakeholders can use the results of these investigations to define climate and environmental policies.
Design and Application of Multi-Dimensional Visualization System for Large-Scale Ocean Data
Authors: Lv Teng , Fu Jun , Li Bao
Published: September 2022

With the constant deepening of research on marine environment simulation and information expression, there are higher and higher requirements for the sense of the reality of ocean data visualization results and the real-time interaction in the visualization process. Aiming at the challenges of 3D interactive key technology and GPU-based visualization algorithm technology, we developed a visualization system for large-scale 3D marine environmental data. The system realizes submarine terrain rendering, contour line visualization, isosurface visualization, section visualization, volume visualization and flow field visualization. In order to manage and express the data in the system, we developed a data management module, which can effectively integrate a large number of marine environmental data and manage them effectively. We developed a series of data analysis functions for the system, such as point query and line query, local analysis and multi-screen collaboration, etc. These functions can effectively improve the data analysis efficiency of users and meet the data analysis needs in multiple scenarios. The marine environmental data visualization system developed in this paper can efficiently and intuitively simulate and display the nature and changing process of marine water environmental factors.
Towards an Accessible Platform for Multimodal Extended Reality Smart Environments
Authors: Bran Emanuela , Nadoleanu Gheorghe , Popovici Dorin-Mircea
Published: September 2022

This article presents the DEMOS prototype platform for creating and exploring multimodal extended-reality smart environments. Modular distributed event-driven applications are created with the help of visual codeless design tools for configuring and linking processing nodes in an oriented dataflow graph. We tested the conceptual logical templates by building two applications that tackle driver arousal state for safety and enhanced museum experiences for cultural purposes, and later by evaluating programmer and nonprogrammer students’ ability to use the design logic. The applications involve formula-based and decision-based processing of data coming from smart sensors, web services, and libraries. Interaction patterns within the distributed event-driven applications use elements of mixed reality and the Internet of Things, creating an intelligent environment based on near-field communication-triggering points. We discuss the platform as a solution to bridging the digital divide, analyzing novel technologies that support the development of a sustainable digital ecosystem.
An Information Ethics Framework Based on ICT Platforms
Authors: Han Jeonghye
Published: September 2022

With continuing developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and robot technology, ethical issues related to digital humans, AI avatars, intelligent process automation, robots, cyborgs, and autonomous vehicles are emerging, and the need for cultural and social sustainability through AI ethics is increasing. Moreover, as the use of video conferencing and metaverse platforms has increased due to COVID-19, ethics concepts and boundaries related to information and communications technology, cyber etiquette, AI ethics, and robot ethics have become more ambiguous. Because the definitions of ethics domains may be confusing due to the various types of computing platforms available, this paper attempts to classify these ethics domains according to three main platforms: computing devices, intermediary platforms, and physical computing devices. This classification provides a conceptual ethics framework that encompasses computer ethics, information ethics, cyber ethics, robot ethics, and AI ethics. Several examples are provided to clarify the boundaries between the various ethics and platforms. The results of this study can be the educational basis for the sustainability of society on ethical issues according to the development of technology.
A Minireview on the Regeneration of NCM Cathode Material Directly from Spent Lithium-Ion Batteries with Different Cathode Chemistries
Authors: Pavlovskii Alexander A. , Pushnitsa Konstantin , Kosenko Alexandra , Novikov Pavel , Popovich Anatoliy A.
Published: September 2022

Research on the regeneration of cathode materials of spent lithium-ion batteries for resource reclamation and environmental protection is attracting more and more attention today. However, the majority of studies on recycling lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) placed the emphasis only on recovering target metals, such as Co, Ni, and Li, from the cathode materials, or how to recycle spent LIBs by conventional means. Effective reclamation strategies (e.g., pyrometallurgical technologies, hydrometallurgy techniques, and biological strategies) have been used in research on recycling used LIBs. Nevertheless, none of the existing reviews of regenerating cathode materials from waste LIBs elucidated the strategies to regenerate lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NCM or LiNixCoyMnzO2) cathode materials directly from spent LIBs containing other than NCM cathodes but, at the same time, frequently used commercial cathode materials such as LiCoO2 (LCO), LiFePO4 (LFP), LiMn2O4 (LMO), etc. or from spent mixed cathode materials. This review showcases the strategies and techniques for regenerating LiNixCoyMnzO2 cathode active materials directly from some commonly used and different types of mixed-cathode materials. The article summarizes the various technologies and processes of regenerating LiNixCoyMnzO2 cathode active materials directly from some individual cathode materials and the mixed-cathode scraps of spent LIBs without their preliminary separation. In the meantime, the economic benefits and diverse synthetic routes of regenerating LiNixCoyMnzO2 cathode materials reported in the literature are analyzed systematically. This minireview can lay guidance and a theoretical basis for restoring LiNixCoyMnzO2 cathode materials.