bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Enhancing the Leishmanicidal Activity of Delamanid
Authors: Santamaría-Aguirre Javier , Jacho Daniela , Méndez Miguel A. , Poveda Ana , Carrión Javier , Fanarraga Mónica L.
Published: December 2023

Leishmaniasis, a zoonotic parasitic disease transmitted by infected sandflies, impacts nearly 1 million people yearly and is endemic in many countries across Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the Mediterranean; despite this, it remains a neglected disease with limited effective treatments, particularly in impoverished communities with limited access to healthcare. This study aims to repurpose approved drugs for an affordable leishmaniasis treatment. After the screening of potential drug candidates by reviewing databases and utilizing molecular docking analysis, delamanid was chosen to be incorporated into solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNPs). Both in cellulo and in vivo tests confirmed the successful payload release within macrophages and through the epidermis following topical application on murine skin. The evaluation of macrophages infected with L. infantum amastigotes showed that the encapsulated delamanid exhibited greater leishmanicidal activity compared with the free drug. The process of encapsulating delamanid in SLNPs, as demonstrated in this study, places a strong emphasis on employing minimal technology, ensuring energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reproducibility. It enables consistent, low-cost production of nanomedicines, even on a small scale, offering a promising step toward more accessible and effective leishmaniasis treatments.
Chitosan and Cyclodextrins—Versatile Materials Used to Create Drug Delivery Systems for Gastrointestinal Cancers
Authors: Najm Alfred , Niculescu Adelina-Gabriela , Bolocan Alexandra , Rădulescu Marius , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai , Beuran Mircea , Gaspar Bogdan Severus
Published: December 2023

Gastrointestinal cancers are characterized by a frequent incidence, a high number of associated deaths, and a tremendous burden on the medical system and patients worldwide. As conventional chemotherapeutic drugs face numerous limitations, researchers started to investigate better alternatives for extending drug efficacy and limiting adverse effects. A remarkably increasing interest has been addressed to chitosan and cyclodextrins, two highly versatile natural carbohydrate materials endowed with unique physicochemical properties. In this respect, numerous studies reported on fabricating various chitosan and cyclodextrin-based formulations that enabled prolonged circulation times, improved cellular internalization of carried drugs, preferential uptake by the targeted cells, reduced side effects, enhanced apoptosis rates, and increased tumor suppression rates. Therefore, this paper aims to briefly present the advantageous properties of these oligo- and polysaccharides for designing drug delivery systems, further focusing the discussion on nanocarrier systems based on chitosan/cyclodextrins for treating different gastrointestinal cancers. Specifically, there are reviewed studies describing promising solutions for colorectal, liver, gastric, pancreatic, and other types of cancers of the digestive system towards creating an updated framework of what concerns anticancer chitosan/cyclodextrin-based drug delivery systems.
Effects of Climate Conditions before Harvest Date on Edamame Metabolome
Authors: Oikawa Akira , Takeuchi Katsutaka , Morita Kei , Horibe Yamato , Sasaki Ryosuke , Murayama Hideki
Published: December 2023

Edamame is a green soybean that is rich in nutrients. Boiled edamame has been traditionally used for food in the East Asia region. It was known among farmers that conditions, such as temperature and climate on the day of harvest, affect the quality of edamame. Large-scale farmers harvest edamame on multiple days in the same year; however, the quality of edamame varies from day to day due to variations in climate conditions. In this study, we harvested edamame over several days between 2013 and 2018, obtained the climate conditions on the harvest date, and performed metabolome analysis using capillary electrophoresis mass spectrometry. To clarify the correlation between climate conditions before the harvest date and edamame components, comparative analyses of the obtained meteorological and metabolomic data were conducted. We found positive and negative correlations between the sunshine duration and average temperature, and the amounts of some edamame components. Furthermore, correlations were observed between the annual fluctuations in climate conditions and edamame components. Our findings suggest that the climate conditions before the date of harvesting are closely related to edamame quality.
Polypyrrole–Tungsten Oxide Nanocomposite Fabrication through Laser-Based Techniques for an Ammonia Sensor: Achieving Room Temperature Operation
Authors: Filipescu Mihaela , Dobrescu Stefan , Bercea Adrian Ionut , Bonciu Anca Florina , Marascu Valentina , Brajnicov Simona , Palla-Papavlu Alexandra
Published: December 2023

A highly sensitive ammonia-gas sensor based on a tungsten trioxide and polypyrrole (WO3/PPy) nanocomposite synthesized using pulsed-laser deposition (PLD) and matrix-assisted pulsed-laser evaporation (MAPLE) is presented in this study. The WO3/PPy nanocomposite is prepared through a layer-by-layer alternate deposition of the PPy thin layer on the WO3 mesoporous layer. Extensive characterization using X-ray diffraction, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and water contact angle are carried out on the as-prepared layers. The gas-sensing properties of the WO3/PPy nanocomposite layers are systematically investigated upon exposure to ammonia gas. The results demonstrate that the WO3/PPy nanocomposite sensor exhibits a lower detection limit, higher response, faster response/recovery time, and exceptional repeatability compared to the pure PPy and WO3 counterparts. The significant improvement in gas-sensing properties observed in the WO3/PPy nanocomposite layer can be attributed to the distinctive interactions occurring at the p–n heterojunction established between the n-type WO3 and p-type PPy. Additionally, the enhanced surface area of the WO3/PPy nanocomposite, achieved through the PLD and MAPLE synthesis techniques, contributes to its exceptional gas-sensing performance.
Cheminformatics-Based Design and Synthesis of Hydroxyapatite/Collagen Nanocomposites for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Aaddouz Mohamed , Azzaoui Khalil , Sabbahi Rachid , Youssoufi Moulay Hfid , Yahyaoui Meryem Idrissi , Asehraou Abdeslam , El Miz Mohamed , Hammouti Belkheir , Shityakov Sergey , Siaj Mohamed , Mejdoubi Elmiloud
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a novel cheminformatics approach for the design and synthesis of hydroxyapatite/collagen nanocomposites, which have potential biomedical applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery, and orthopedic and dental implants. The nanocomposites are synthesized by the co-precipitation method with different ratios of hydroxyapatite and collagen. Their mechanical, biological, and degradation properties are analyzed using various experimental and computational techniques. Attenuated total reflection–Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray diffraction unveil the low crystallinity and nanoscale particle size of hydroxyapatite (22.62 nm) and hydroxyapatite/collagen composites (14.81 nm). These findings are substantiated by scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, confirming the Ca/P ratio between 1.65 and 1.53 and attesting to the formation of non-stoichiometric apatites in all samples, further validated by molecular simulation. The antimicrobial activity of the nanocomposites is evaluated in vitro against several bacterial and fungal strains, demonstrating their medical potential. Additionally, in silico analyses are performed to predict the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion properties and the bioavailability of the collagen samples. This study paves the way for the development of novel biomaterials using chemoinformatics tools and methods, facilitating the optimization of design and synthesis parameters, as well as the prediction of biological outcomes. Future research directions should encompass the investigation of in vivo biocompatibility and bioactivity of the nanocomposites, while exploring further applications and functionalities of these innovative materials.
Recent Approaches to the Plasticization of Poly(lactic Acid) (PLA) (A Review)
Authors: Mastalygina Elena E. , Aleksanyan Kristine V.
Published: December 2023

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a polyester attracting growing interest every year in different application fields, such as packaging, cosmetics, food, medicine, etc. Despite its significant advantages, it has low elasticity that may hinder further development and a corresponding rise in volume of consumption. This review opens a discussion of basic approaches to PLA plasticization. These considerations include copolymerization and blending with flexible polymers, introducing oligomers and low-molecular additives, as well as structural modification. It was demonstrated that each approach has its advantages, such as simplicity and low cost, but with disadvantages, including complex processing and the need for additional reagents. According to the analysis of different approaches, it was concluded that the optimal option is the application of copolymers as the additives obtained via reactive mixing to PLA and its blends with other polymers.
Quantum Spacetime Geometrization: QED at High Curvature and Direct Formation of Supermassive Black Holes from the Big Bang
Authors: Chiarelli Piero
Published: December 2023

In this work, the author employs the quantum hydrodynamic formalism to achieve the geometrization of spacetime for describing the gravitational interaction within the framework of quantum theory. This approach allows for the development of an equation of gravity that is mathematically connected to the fermion and boson fields. This achievement is accomplished by incorporating two fundamental principles: covariance of the quantum field equations and the principle of least action. By considering these principles, a theory is established that enables the calculation of gravitational corrections to quantum electrodynamics and, potentially, to the standard model of particle physics as well. The theory also provides an explanation for two phenomena: the existence of a cosmological pressure density similar to quintessence, which is compatible with the small value of the observed cosmological constant, and the breaking of matter–antimatter symmetry at high energies, offering insights into why there is an imbalance between the two in the early universe. In the cosmological modeling of the theory, there exists a proposal to account for the formation of supermassive black holes that are accompanied by their own surrounding galaxies, without relying on the process of mass accretion. The model, in accordance with recent observations conducted by the James Webb Space Telescope, supports the notion that galactic configurations were established relatively early in the history of the universe, shortly after the occurrence of the Big Bang.
Unsettling Man in Europe: Wynter and the Race–Religion Constellation
Authors: Topolski Anya
Published: December 2023

Sylvia Wynter brings to light a structural entanglement between race and religion that is fundamental to identifying racism’s logic. This logic is continuous albeit often masked in particular in European race–religion constellations such as antisemitism and islamophobia. Focusing on the Americas, Wynter reveals a structural epistemic continuity between ‘religious’, rational and scientific racism. Nonetheless, Wynter marks a discontinuity between pre- and post-1492, by distinguishing between the Christian subject and Man, the overrepresentation of the human. In this essay, which focuses on European entanglements of race and religion, a process of dehumanization and its historical and geographic continuities is more discernible. As such, I question Wynter’s discontinuity, arguing that the Christian subject was conceived of as the only full conception of the human (although not without debate or inconsistencies), which meant that non-Christians were de-facto and de-jure excluded from the political community and suffered degrees of dehumanization. Within the concept of dehumanization, I focus on the entanglement of race and religion, or more specifically Whiteness and Christianity, as distinct markers of supremacy/difference and show that the Church had, and asserted, the power to produce both lesser and non-humans.
Constraints on the Fault Dip Angles of Lunar Graben and Their Significance for Lunar Thermal Evolution
Authors: Zhu Kai , Liu Jianzhong , Michael Gregory , Lei Danhong , Zeng Xuejin
Published: December 2023

Lunar grabens are the largest tensional linear structures on the Moon. In this paper, 17 grabens were selected to investigate the dips and displacement–length ratios (γ) of graben-bounding faults. Several topographic profiles were generated from selected grabens to measure their rim elevation, width and depth through SLDEM2015 (+LOLA) data. The differences in rim elevation (∆h) and width (∆W) between two topographic profiles on each graben were calculated, yielding 146 sets of data. We plotted ∆h vs. ∆W for each and calculated the dip angle (α) of graben-bounding faults. A dip of 39.9° was obtained using the standard linear regression method. In order to improve accuracy, large error data were removed based on error analysis. The results, 49.4° and 52.5°, were derived by the standard linear regression and average methods, respectively. Based on the depth and length of grabens, the γ value of the graben-bounding normal fault is also studied in this paper. The γ value is 3.6 × 10−3 for lunar normal faults according to the study of grabens and the Rupes Recta normal fault. After obtaining the values of α and γ, the increase in lunar radius indicated by the formation of grabens was estimated. We suggest that the lunar radius has increased by approximately 130 m after the formation of grabens. This study could aid in the understanding of normal fault growth and provide important constraints on the thermal evolution of the Moon.
Multi-Level Attention Interactive Network for Cloud and Snow Detection Segmentation
Authors: Ding Li , Xia Min , Lin Haifeng , Hu Kai
Published: December 2023

The ground is typically hidden by cloud and snow in satellite images, which have a similar visible spectrum and complex spatial distribution characteristics. The detection of cloud and snow is important for increasing image availability and studying climate change. To address the issues of the low classification accuracy and poor generalization effect by the traditional threshold method, as well as the problems of the misdetection of overlapping regions, rough segmentation results, and a loss of boundary details in existing algorithms, this paper designed a Multi-level Attention Interaction Network (MAINet). The MAINet uses a modified ResNet50 to extract features and introduces a Detail Feature Extraction module to extract multi-level information and reduce the loss of details. In the last down-sampling, the Deep Multi-head Information Enhancement module combines a CNN and a Transformer structure to make deep semantic features more distinct and reduce redundant information. Then, the Feature Interactive and Fusion Up-sampling module enhances the information extraction of deep and shallow information and, then, guides and aggregates each to make the learned semantic features more comprehensive, which can better recover remote sensing images and increase the prediction accuracy. The MAINet model we propose performed satisfactorily in handling cloud and snow detection and segmentation tasks in multiple scenarios. Experiments on related data sets also showed that the MAINet algorithm exhibited the best performance.
Pre-Launch Multi-Energy Radiance Calibration of the OMS-N
Authors: Mao Jinghua , Wang Yongmei , Shi Entao , Hu Xiuqing , Wang Qian , Wang Jinduo
Published: December 2023

This paper presents the prelaunch radiometric calibration of the Ozone Monitor Suite-Nadir (OMS-N) instrument, a vital payload on the FY-3F satellite. FY-3F achieved a successful launch on 3 August 2023. The radiance calibration of the OMS-N instrument was achieved using an integrating sphere, with known exit radiance ascertained through a transferring radiometer. The calibration model incorporates six energy levels. The Solar Simulator Standard System was employed to validate the calibration results, selecting specific rows to represent varying spatial dimensions. Considering the influence of xenon lamp characteristic peaks and transmission errors during the calibration process, the average deviation remained within 2.3% for the VIS channel, 3% for the UV1 channel, and 2.2% for the UV2 channel. Furthermore, the uncertainty of the radiometric calibration was analyzed. The results indicated an absolute uncertainty of 2.33% for both the UV1 and UV2 channels and 1.69% for the VIS channel. The relative uncertainty was 1.84% for both the UV1 and UV2 channels and 1.45% for the VIS channel. The obtained calibration coefficients are accurate and reliable and can be used for the inversion of product parameters, which is of great significance to the quantitative application of satellite data and the advancement of scientific research on quantitative remote sensing.
Rapid Mapping of Landslides Induced by Heavy Rainfall in the Emilia-Romagna (Italy) Region in May 2023
Authors: Ferrario Maria Francesca , Livio Franz
Published: December 2023

Heavy rainfall is a major factor for landslide triggering. Here, we present an inventory of 47,523 landslides triggered by two precipitation episodes that occurred in May 2023 in the Emilia-Romagna and conterminous regions (Italy). The landslides are manually mapped from a visual interpretation of satellite images and are mainly triggered by the second rainfall episode (16–17 May 2023); the inventory is entirely original, and the mapping is supplemented with field surveys at a few selected locations. The main goal of this paper is to present the dataset and to investigate the landslide distribution with respect to triggering (precipitation) and predisposing (land use, lithology, slope and distance from roads) factors using a statistical approach. The landslides occurred more frequently on steeper slopes and for the land use categories of “bare rocks and badlands” and woodlands. A weaker positive correlation is found for the lithological classes: silty and flysch-like units are more prone to host slope movements. The inventory presented here provides a comprehensive picture of the slope movements triggered in the study area and represents one of the most numerous rainfall-induced landslide inventories on a global scale. We claim that the inventory can support the validation of automatic products and that our results on triggering and predisposing factors can be used for modeling landslide susceptibility and more broadly for hazard purposes.
A Pneumatically Controlled Prosthetic Socket for Transfemoral Amputees
Authors: Lee Kang-Ho , Heo Hyun-Seok , Kim Jeongmin , Cho Jang Hyuk , Kim Kyoung Tae , Hur Jeong-Yong , Kim Jang Hwan , Lee Yongkoo
Published: December 2023

Amputees typically experience changes in residual limb volume in their daily lives. It causes an uncomfortable fit of the socket by applying high pressure on the sensitive area of the residual limb or by loosening the socket. In this study, we developed a transfemoral prosthetic socket for above-the-knee amputees that ensures a good socket fit by maintaining uniform and constant contact pressure despite volume changes in the residual limb. The socket has two air bladders in the posterior femoral region, and the pneumatic controller is located on the tibia of the prosthesis. The pneumatic system aims to minimize unstable fitting of the socket and improve walking performance by inflating or deflating the air bladder. The developed socket autonomously maintains the air pressure inside the prosthetic socket at a steady-state error of 3 mmHg or less by adjusting the amount of air in the air bladder via closed-loop control. In the clinical trial, amputee participants walked on flat and inclined surfaces. The displacement between the residual limb and socket during the gait cycle was reduced by up to 33.4% after air injection into the socket. The inflatable bladder increased the knee flexion angle on the affected side, resulting in increased stride length and gait velocity. The pneumatic socket provides a stable and comfortable walking experience not only when walking on flat ground but also on slopes.
Research on Trajectory-Tracking Control System of Tracked Wall-Climbing Robots
Authors: Zhang Haoyan , Wu Jiaqi , An Yang , Xie Pengshu , Cui Da
Published: December 2023

Different from the vehicles and robots that move on the ground, complex and nonlinear track–wall interactions bring considerable difficulties to the accurate control of tracked wall-climbing robots due to the effect of gravity and adsorption. In this article, the authors propose a trajectory-tracking control system for tracked wall-climbing robots based on the fuzzy logic computed-torque control (FLCT) method. A key element in the proposed control strategy is to consider the adsorption force and gravity compensation based on the dynamic model. Validated via numerical simulations and experiments, the results show that the proposed controller can track the reference trajectory quickly, accurately and stably.
Human Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals and Nitrates Associated with Oral and Dermal Groundwater Exposure: The Poirino Plateau Case Study (NW Italy)
Authors: Cocca Daniele , Lasagna Manuela , Destefanis Enrico , Bottasso Chiara , De Luca Domenico Antonio
Published: December 2023

The Poirino Plateau (northwestern Italy) presents high contamination of the shallow aquifer due to intense agricultural practices and industrial activities. Many inhabitants have exploited shallow wells for personal purposes, coming into contact with contaminants. The aims of this study were to characterize groundwater contamination by heavy metals and nitrates, assess the noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks for oral and dermal exposure in different receptor groups (children, adults, workers) and compare the noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic risk results with the regulatory limits and, therefore, if the actual regulatory limits are able to detect all potential situations of risk. For this purpose, 18 monitoring wells were collected in July 2022, and chemical–physical parameters and heavy metals were detected. The chemical data confirm a relevant anthropogenic contamination by nitrate and heavy metals. The estimated health risks are much higher in children, for oral exposure rather than dermal exposure for all the substances. The comparison between the results of the human health risk assessment and those in respect of threshold values confirms the existence of a transition condition. This condition, with concentrations below regulatory limits and above the noncarcinogenic or carcinogenic limits, reveals that the regulatory limits are not able to identify all the potential risk situations for the population.
Numerical Analysis of Unsteady Internal Flow Characteristics in a Bidirectional Axial Flow Pump
Authors: Dai Yurui , Shi Weidong , Yang Yongfei , Xie Zhanshan , Zhang Qinghong
Published: December 2023

A bidirectional axial flow pump that utilizes an S-shaped hydrofoil design exhibits low efficiency and hydraulic instability when operated in reverse. In order to understand the unsteady flow characteristics of this bidirectional axial pump under different operating conditions, the SST k–ω turbulence model was applied to carry out a three-dimensional unsteady numerical simulation of the full flow channel of the pump. The reliability of the numerical calculation model was verified by comparing it with the experimental head and efficiency. The pressure pulsation characteristics on the impeller surface and the pump device under different operating conditions and the transient forces on the impeller were analyzed. The results show that the head and efficiency in reverse operation were lower than in forward operation and the flow streamline of the impeller outlet area was more turbulent in the reverse operation condition. The monitoring points at the inlet and the top of the impeller surface showed the largest pressure pulsation amplitude. The radial and axial forces on the impeller in the reverse operation were greater than those in the forward operation. Under a reverse 1.0 Qdes condition, the average pressure pulsation amplitudes at the inlet of the impeller were 19.2 times and 5.7 times of that at the inlet of the guide vane and the outlet of the impeller, respectively. This study provides a reference for the hydraulic design and optimization of bidirectional axial flow pumps.
A Substitute for Portland Cement: Experiments on Ecofriendly Reinforcement of Large-Scale Calcareous Sand by Microbial-Induced Carbonate Precipitation Spraying Method
Authors: Li Yujie , Rui Shengjie , Li Lingling , Guo Zhen , Sun Xingye
Published: December 2023

In order to respond to the greenhouse effect and achieve sustainable development, microbial-induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) technology based on the spraying method was used as a substitute for Portland cement to reinforce calcareous sand. In order to simulate the tide and determine the suitable concentration, the effects of the initial water level and cementing solution (CS) concentration on the reinforcement were analyzed. The results showed that the distributions of penetration resistance and equivalent calcium carbonate content mainly include two patterns: monotonically decreasing, and initially increasing and then decreasing. The fully saturated case only showed a dense, thin layer of calcium carbonate on the surface, and in the completely dry case, middle cementation was produced. When the initial water level was 0.5 m, the largest range of 60 cm of effective cementation appeared, and both the equivalent calcium carbonate content and penetration resistance were the highest because the microorganisms were more likely to migrate to the particle connection. The calcium carbonate generated by the MICP reaction played a role in increasing the water retention capacity of the sand. As the degree of cementation increased, the SWRC gradually moved up and the matrix suction corresponding to the same volume water content increased sequentially. Increasing the spraying times and the concentration of CS generated more calcium carbonate. The penetration resistance of higher CS concentrations was larger with the same calcium carbonate content. There was a linear relationship between the normalized penetration resistance and the normalized shear wave velocity.
The Sustainability of Using DuraCrete as Cement Additive to Estuarine Soft Soil Stabilization
Authors: Al-Gemeel Ali N. , Al-Hayo Noor , Ong Dominic E. L. , Zhuge Yan
Published: December 2023

Large areas of estuarine deposits exist on the coastal plains of the southeast Queensland coast with a countered depth of up to 30 m. These deposits are categorized as sediments that originated during the Holocene Age. The sediments have not been consolidated or subjected to considerable pressure since the end of the Ice Age. The structure of these deposits consists of large ratios of porosity, causing high soil compressibility, which lowers the bearing capacity of the soils. Therefore, the soils of the region cannot maintain sufficient support for construction loads, and consequent malfunctions could occur in short-term and long-term periods. The objective of this paper is to investigate the suitability of new soil stabilization additives in the southeast Queensland region and the optimum additive content of cementitious materials and an advanced mixing modifier branded as DuraCrete. A combination of Portland cement and DuraCrete was used as a soil additive. Three DuraCrete-to-cement ratios were used: 2%, 3%, and 4% by weight. Soil collected from the Port of Brisbane region was treated by adding the additives as a percentage of its weight; four percentages were considered: 10%, 20%, 25%, and 30% for each combination of additives. The performance of the treated soils was examined under unconfined compression after 28 days of curing. The results revealed that increases in the unconfined compressive strength were detected as DuraCrete was added to the mixtures. For 30% additives, increases of about 15%, 34%, and 17% were detected when DuraCrete was added as 2%, 3%, and 4%, respectively. The results also revealed that 3% DuraCrete content provided significant stabilization compared to 2% and 4% for 25% and 30% additive-treated soils; such behavior was also observed for the specimens of 25% content of additives. Additionally, DuraCrete can be considered a promising material that can be combined with cement to obtain the desired stabilization of soft soils.
Robust Optimization of Large-Scale Wind–Solar Storage Renewable Energy Systems Considering Hybrid Storage Multi-Energy Synergy
Authors: Xiao Bin , Gao Zhenxin , Peng Huaiwu , Chen Kang , Li Yang , Liu Kun
Published: December 2023

With the rapid integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, multiple types of energy storage technologies have been widely used to improve renewable energy generation and promote the development of sustainable energy systems. Energy storage can provide fast response and regulation capabilities, but multiple types of energy storage involve different energy conversion relationships. How to fully utilize the advantages of multiple energy storage and coordinate the multi-energy complementarity of multiple energy storage is the key to maintaining a stable operation of the power system. To this end, this paper proposes a robust optimization method for large-scale wind–solar storage systems considering hybrid storage multi-energy synergy. Firstly, the robust operation model of large-scale wind–solar storage systems considering hybrid energy storage is built. Secondly, the column constraint generation (CCG) algorithm is adopted to transform the original problem into a two-stage master problem and sub-problem for solving to obtain the optimal strategy of system operation with robustness. Finally, the validity of the proposed method is verified through case tests. The results show that the proposed method can effectively coordinate the multi-energy complementary and coordinated operation of multiple hybrid energy storage, and the obtained operation strategy of large-scale wind–solar storage systems can well balance the economy and robustness of the system.
Environmental Indicators of Vegan and Vegetarian Diets: A Pilot Study in a Group of Young Adult Female Consumers in Poland
Authors: Góralska-Walczak Rita , Kopczyńska Klaudia , Kazimierczak Renata , Stefanovic Lilliana , Bieńko Michał , Oczkowski Michał , Średnicka-Tober Dominika
Published: December 2023

It has been broadly reported that the production of animal-derived foods significantly contributes to the environmental footprint of the agri-food sector, considering, among others, such indicators as land use, greenhouse gas emissions, and the water footprint. However, the environmental sustainability aspects of whole diets (i.e., more plant-based vs. meat-containing) have been studied so far to a limited extent, in many cases not taking into consideration various regional settings, which to a great extent determine meat- and other animal-derived foods’ substitutes consumed by vegetarians and vegans. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the environmental indicators of vegetarian, vegan, and meat-containing diets of a selected group of Polish consumers. Based on three-day food records of 24 respondents and the published data on the environmental footprint of a range of foodstuffs, the three dietary environmental indicators were calculated. In addition, the results were standardized in terms of dietary protein intake and energy value. The study showed the elimination of meat and other animal-derived foods from the respondents’ diet was predominantly motivated by their concerns related to animal welfare issues, which appeared to be a stronger factor than the willingness to reduce the diets’ environmental footprint. Following the results standardization, the studied vegetarian and vegan diets were characterized by 47.0% and 64.4% lower carbon footprint, 32.2% and 60.9% lower land use indicators, and 37.1% and 62.9% lower water footprints, respectively, compared to the meat-containing diet. Animal-derived foods, including milk and dairy, appeared to be the main contributors to all three environmental footprint indicators of both the meat-containing and the vegetarian diets. In the vegan group, the environmental footprint was found to be mainly influenced by the consumption of legumes and legume-based foods, cereal products, potatoes, sugar, products containing cocoa and vegetables, with nuts showing especially significant contribution to the fresh water consumption. The study confirms moving towards more plant-based diet has a potential to significantly reduce the diet’s environmental footprint. It also contributes to creating a ‘roadmap’ for consumers, to encourage them to plan their diets responsibly, taking into consideration both the health and the environmental sustainability aspects.
Measuring the Motivation: A Scale for Positive Consequences in Pro-Environmental Behavior
Authors: Ahn Insook , Kim Soo Hyun
Published: December 2023

This two-part research study presents the development, validation, and assessment of a measurement scale designed to evaluate the positive consequences of pro-environmental behavior. Study 1 successfully constructed a scale with two factors: positive consequences for self (PCS) and positive consequences for the environment (PCE). Data collected from a diverse sample in the USA was analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, establishing the scale’s reliability and construct validity. In Study 2, the nomological validity of the scale was examined, revealing significant relationships between values, positive consequences, anticipated positive emotions, and intentions to purchase pro-environmental products. Notably, biospheric and egoistic values were associated with different aspects of positive consequences, indicating the multifaceted nature of motivation for pro-environmental actions. Positive emotions mediated the impact of values and consequences on purchasing intentions. These findings provide valuable insights into the decision-making processes behind eco-friendly product purchases and contribute to understanding pro-environmental behavior. Future research can build on these findings to promote sustainable consumption in diverse contexts.
Analysis and Modeling of Residential Energy Consumption Profiles Using Device-Level Data: A Case Study of Homes Located in Santiago de Chile
Authors: Verdejo Humberto , Fucks Jara Emiliano , Castillo Tomas , Becker Cristhian , Vergara Diego , Sebastian Rafael , Guzmán Guillermo , Tobar Francisco , Zolezzi Juan
Published: December 2023

The advancement of technology has significantly improved energy measurement systems. Recent investment in smart meters has enabled companies and researchers to access data with the highest possible temporal disaggregation, on a minute-by-minute basis. This research aimed to obtain data with the highest possible temporal and spatial disaggregation. This was achieved through a process of energy consumption measurements for six devices within seven houses, located in different communes (counties) of the Metropolitan Region of Chile. From this process, a data panel of energy consumption of six devices was constructed for each household, observed in two temporal windows: one quarterly (750,000+ observations) and another semi-annual (1,500,000+ observations). By applying a panel data econometric model with fixed effects, calendar-temporal patterns that help explain energy consumption in each of these two windows have been studied, obtaining explanations of over 80% in some cases, and very low in others. Sensitivity analyses show that the results are robust in a short-term temporal horizon and provide a practical methodology for analyzing energy consumption determinants and load profiles with panel data. Moreover, to the authors’ knowledge, these are the first results obtained with data from Chile. Therefore, the findings provide key information for the planning of production, design of energy market mechanisms, tariff regulation, and other relevant energy policies, both at local and global levels.
Research Trends in Dry Port Sustainability: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Beyene Zellalem Tadesse , Nadeem Simon Peter , Jaleta Matiwos Ensermu , Kreie Andre
Published: December 2023

This study consolidates research on operational sustainability in dry ports. A total of 232 papers published in the last 23 years (2000–2023) are reviewed to assess the breadth of research perspectives in dry port sustainable operations. Additionally, the findings summarize current research trends, identify flaws in the body of knowledge, and suggest potential research areas. A bibliographic analysis approach is deployed to explore the existing body of knowledge, review the concepts in depth, and narrow the focus on potential research areas. Within this context, a content analysis technique has been utilized to explore and understand the conceptual underpinnings of specific themes, typically involving trending subjects like sustainability, dry ports, inland ports, economic sustainability, social sustainability, and environmental sustainability. Tools such as BibExcel and VOSviewer were utilized to assist in conducting the bibliometric analysis. The majority of dry port research has concentrated on the definition, functions, policy and governance, location analysis, ownership, and dry port-seaport interaction. Less attention is paid to dry port sustainability in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the interaction of internal and external collaboration with dry port sustainability, dry port social sustainability, dry port economic sustainability, dry port environment sustainability, and dry port service quality. Specifically, there has been limited research output on the sustainability of dry ports within the context of landlocked nations. This study will raise awareness of unexplored areas for further research by focusing on critical issues that are not generally covered by scholars in existing literature, such as dry port internal sustainability management and external collaboration.
Innovative Strategies for Sustainable Dairy Farming in Canada amidst Climate Change
Authors: Neethirajan Suresh
Published: December 2023

In recent years, the Canadian dairy sector has faced escalating challenges due to its significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane. This paper critically examines a spectrum of innovative techniques aimed at mitigating methane emissions within this sector, scrutinizing their cost-effectiveness, efficiency, compatibility with animal welfare standards, and adherence to both existing and prospective Canadian environmental legislations. The discourse begins with an exhaustive overview of contemporary methane reduction methodologies relevant to dairy farming, followed by a rigorous analysis of their economic feasibility. This includes a detailed cost-benefit analysis, juxtaposed with the efficiency and technological advancements these techniques embody. A pivotal aspect of this examination is the alignment of animal welfare with emission reduction objectives, ensuring that the strategies employed do not compromise the health and well-being of dairy cattle. Furthermore, the paper delves into the legislative landscape of Canada, evaluating the congruence of these techniques with current environmental laws and anticipating future regulatory shifts. Performance indicators for emission reduction are critically assessed, establishing benchmarks tailored to the Canadian context. This is complemented by an exploration of the market potential of these innovations, including factors influencing their adoption and scalability in the market. The analysis culminates with a synthesis of case studies and best practices within Canada, offering insights into successful implementations and drawing lessons for future endeavors. This comprehensive approach not only addresses the immediate environmental and health impacts associated with dairy farming emissions but also significantly contributes to the overarching goal of sustainable development in the agricultural sector. The research presented in this paper holds significant implications for the future of sustainable dairy farming, offering a model for addressing environmental challenges while maintaining economic viability and animal welfare.
Cosmological Parameter Estimation with Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Medel-Esquivel Ricardo , Gómez-Vargas Isidro , Morales Sánchez Alejandro A. , García-Salcedo Ricardo , Alberto Vázquez José
Published: December 2023

Genetic algorithms are a powerful tool in optimization for single and multimodal functions. This paper provides an overview of their fundamentals with some analytical examples. In addition, we explore how they can be used as a parameter estimation tool in cosmological models to maximize the likelihood function, complementing the analysis with the traditional Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. We analyze that genetic algorithms provide fast estimates by focusing on maximizing the likelihood function, although they cannot provide confidence regions with the same statistical meaning as Bayesian approaches. Moreover, we show that implementing sharing and niching techniques ensures an effective exploration of the parameter space, even in the presence of local optima, always helping to find the global optima. This approach is invaluable in the cosmological context, where an exhaustive space exploration of parameters is essential. We use dark energy models to exemplify the use of genetic algorithms in cosmological parameter estimation, including a multimodal problem, and we also show how to use the output of a genetic algorithm to obtain derived cosmological functions. This paper concludes that genetic algorithms are a handy tool within cosmological data analysis, without replacing the traditional Bayesian methods but providing different advantages.
Update on WASP-19
Authors: Korth Judith , Parviainen Hannu
Published: December 2023

Tidal interaction between a star and a close-in massive exoplanet causes the planetary orbit to shrink and eventually leads to tidal disruption. Understanding orbital decay in exoplanetary systems is crucial for advancing our knowledge of planetary formation and evolution. Moreover, it sheds light on the broader question of the long-term stability of planetary orbits and the intricate interplay of gravitational forces within stellar systems. Analyzing Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) data for the ultra-short period gas giant WASP-19, we aim to measure orbital period variations and constrain the stellar tidal quality parameter. For this, we fitted the TESS observations together with two WASP-19 transits observed using the Las Cumbres Observatory Global Telescope (LCOGT) and searched for orbital decay in combination with previously published transit times. As a result, we find a deviation from the constant orbital period at the 7σ level. The orbital period changes at a rate of P˙=−3.7±0.5msyear−1, which translates into a tidal quality factor of Q★′=(7±1)×105. We additionally modeled WASP-19 b’s phase curve using the new TESS photometry and obtained updated values for the planet’s eclipse depth, dayside temperature, and geometric albedo. We estimate an eclipse depth of 520±60 ppm, which is slightly higher than previous estimates and corresponds to a dayside brightness temperature of 2400±60 K and geometric albedo of 0.20±0.04.
Anti-Dengue: A Machine Learning-Assisted Prediction of Small Molecule Antivirals against Dengue Virus and Implications in Drug Repurposing
Authors: Gautam Sakshi , Thakur Anamika , Rajput Akanksha , Kumar Manoj
Published: December 2023

Dengue outbreaks persist in global tropical regions, lacking approved antivirals, necessitating critical therapeutic development against the virus. In this context, we developed the “Anti-Dengue” algorithm that predicts dengue virus inhibitors using a quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) and MLTs. Using the “DrugRepV” database, we extracted chemicals (small molecules) and repurposed drugs targeting the dengue virus with their corresponding IC50 values. Then, molecular descriptors and fingerprints were computed for these molecules using PaDEL software. Further, these molecules were split into training/testing and independent validation datasets. We developed regression-based predictive models employing 10-fold cross-validation using a variety of machine learning approaches, including SVM, ANN, kNN, and RF. The best predictive model yielded a PCC of 0.71 on the training/testing dataset and 0.81 on the independent validation dataset. The created model’s reliability and robustness were assessed using William’s plot, scatter plot, decoy set, and chemical clustering analyses. Predictive models were utilized to identify possible drug candidates that could be repurposed. We identified goserelin, gonadorelin, and nafarelin as potential repurposed drugs with high pIC50 values. “Anti-Dengue” may be beneficial in accelerating antiviral drug development against the dengue virus.
Spatiotemporal Changes and Hazard Assessment of Hydrological Drought in China Using Big Data
Authors: Tao Yi , Meng Erhao , Huang Qiang
Published: December 2023

The intensification of the regional water cycle resulting from climate change, coupled with the influence of human activities, has brought about alterations in the frequency, scale, and intensity of droughts. In this study, based on hydrological big data and the standardized runoff drought index (SRI), the multi-scale spatiotemporal evolution of hydrological drought in China from 1948 to 2014 was analyzed using the run-length theory and gravity center model. Meanwhile, the hydrological drought hazard index was constructed to analyze the distribution of the hazard levels of drought in China. The results showed that, during 1948~2014, there was an opposite spatial distribution between the average intensity and the average coverage–duration–frequency of drought in the Yellow River Basin, Haihe River Basin and southeastern river basins. The drought situation in most river basins in China has shown an aggravating trend, among which the southeastern river basins, Haihe River Basin, Songliao River Basin and Pearl River Basin have generally shown an aggravating trend. The drought situation in China was severe in the 1950s and 1960s, gradually reduced in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, and the drought situation was the mildest in the 1990s. After entering the 21st century, the drought situation began to worsen sharply. Meanwhile, from 1948 to 2014, the hazard level of drought generally presented a pattern of high in the west and north, and low in the east and south. The hazard levels of drought in the northwest and northeast were generally higher, and those in the southwest and southeast regions were generally lower. In general, the hazard levels of drought were relatively high in most areas of China.