bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Ethanol, Methanol, and Butanol Blending with Gasoline and Its Effect on Engine Performance and Emissions Using Engine Simulation
Authors: Iliev Simeon
Published: July 2021

Air pollution, especially in large cities around the world, is associated with serious problems both with people’s health and the environment. Over the past few years, there has been a particularly intensive demand for alternatives to fossil fuels, because when they are burned, substances that pollute the environment are released. In addition to the smoke from fuels burned for heating and harmful emissions that industrial installations release, the exhaust emissions of vehicles create a large share of the fossil fuel pollution. Alternative fuels, known as non-conventional and advanced fuels, are derived from resources other than fossil fuels. Because alcoholic fuels have several physical and propellant properties similar to those of gasoline, they can be considered as one of the alternative fuels. Alcoholic fuels or alcohol-blended fuels may be used in gasoline engines to reduce exhaust emissions. This study aimed to develop a gasoline engine model to predict the influence of different types of alcohol-blended fuels on performance and emissions. For the purpose of this study, the AVL Boost software was used to analyse characteristics of the gasoline engine when operating with different mixtures of ethanol, methanol, butanol, and gasoline (by volume). Results obtained from different fuel blends showed that when alcohol blends were used, brake power decreased and the brake specific fuel consumption increased compared to when using gasoline, and CO and HC concentrations decreased as the fuel blends percentage increased.
Optimization of Hydrolysis-Acidogenesis Phase of Swine Manure for Biogas Production Using Two-Stage Anaerobic Fermentation
Authors: Lin Chiu-Yue , Chai Wai Siong , Lay Chyi-How , Chen Chin-Chao , Lee Chun-Yi , Show Pau Loke
Published: July 2021

The traditional pig manure wastewater treatment in Taiwan has been low in methane production efficiency due to unstable influent concentration, wastewater volume, and quality. Two-stage anaerobic systems, in contrast, have the advantage of buffering the organic loading rate in the first stage (hydrolysis-acidogenesis phase), allowing a more constant feeding rate to the second stage (methanogenesis phase). Response surface methodology was applied to optimize the operational period (0.5–2.0 d) and initial operational pH (4–10) for hydrolysis and acidogenesis of the swine manure (total solid 5.3%) at 35 °C in batch operation mode. A methanogenesis verification experiment with the optimal condition of operational period 1.5 d and pH 6.5 using batch operation resulted in peak volatile acid production 7 g COD/L, methane production rate (MPR) 0.3 L-CH4/L-d, and methane yield (MY) 92 mL-CH4/g-CODre (chemical oxygen demand removed). Moreover, a two-stage system including a hydrolysis-acidogenesis reactor with the optimal operating condition and a methanogenesis reactor provided an average MPR 163 mL/L-d and MY 38 mL/g volatile solids, which values are 60% higher than those of a single-stage system; both systems have similar dominant methane-producing species of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes with each having around 30%–40%. The advantages of a two-stage anaerobic fermentation system in treating swine manure for biogas production are obvious.
Scaling-Up and Semi-Continuous Cultivation of Locally Isolated Marine Microalgae Tetraselmis striata in the Subtropical Island of Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain)
Authors: Gojkovic Zivan , Guidi Flavio , Bustamante Begoña , Venuleo Marianna , Assunçao Patrícia Alexandra Clemente Janeiro de , Portillo Eduardo
Published: July 2021

The goal of this study was to determine the feasibility of the large-scale cultivation of locally isolated Tetraselmis striata in different open ponds in Gran Canaria. The biomass productivities were 24.66 ± 0.53 kgDW in 32 days (28.9 t/ha/year) for 8000 L indoors, 42.32 ± 0.81 kgDW in 43 days (38.8 t/ha/year) for an 8000 L pond outdoors, and 54.9 ± 0.58 kgDW in 28 days (19.6 t/ha/year) for a 45,000 L pond outdoors. The photosynthetic efficiencies were 1.45 ± 0.03% for an 8000 L pond indoors, 1.95 ± 0.04% for 8000 L outdoors. and 1.10 ± 0.01% for a 45,000 L pond outdoors. The selected strain was fast-growing (µ = 0.21 day−1) and could be rapidly scaled up to 45,000 L; it formed healthy cultures that maintained high photosynthetic activity during long-term cultivation and provided stable biomass productivities, able to grow on urea, which acted as a cheap and effective grazer control. The obtained biomass is a good source of proteins and has an FA profile with a high content of some nutritionally important fatty acids: oleic, α-linolenic (ALA) and EPA. The high ash content in the biomass (>35%) can be reduced by the implementation of additional washing steps after the centrifugation of the culture.
The Effect of Initial Conditions with Aerobic Biological Treatment on Aniline Dyeing Wastewater
Authors: Dong Huancheng , Liu Hongmei , Yang Xue , Gong Houjie , Zhang Heng , Wang Runkai , Yan Lili , Mai Wenning
Published: July 2021

According to the characteristics of aniline dyeing wastewater, aerobic biological treatment was adopted herein, and high-throughput sequencing technology was used to analyze the changes to the microbial community structure and diversity in the aerobic sludge acclimation stage. As a result, according to the experimental study on the effects of different biomass, the initial pH value and the salinity with the aerobic biological treatment, the chemical oxygen demand (COD) degradation rate can increase linearly with the increase in biomass under different biomass conditions. The organic matter degradation rate is 6.24 mg/L COD·h−1·(mg/L·MLSS)−1, with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.98704. When the initial pH value is less than 7.0 ± 0.2, the COD degradation rate increases with the increase in the initial pH value and then decreases gradually. The optimal sludge concentration is 4 g/L; the optimal initial pH value is in the range of 7.0–8.0; the optimal salinity is 1.7%. When the initial concentration of COD is 3000 mg/L, the COD value gradually stabilizes and decreases to 1500 mg/L after 32 h, the degradation rate reaches 50%, and the pH decreases from 7.5 to 4.5. Sphingopyxis has been detected in sludge samples from the third cycle of acclimation, which can biodegrade aromatic compounds, anthraquinone dyes, and their intermediates, and the relative abundance of Sphingopyxis increased from 0.18% to 5.08%, indicating a potential biodegradation ability of aniline dyeing wastewater.
Generalized Probabilities in Statistical Theories
Authors: Holik Federico , Massri César , Plastino Angelo , Sáenz Manuel
Published: July 2021

We discuss different formal frameworks for the description of generalized probabilities in statistical theories. We analyze the particular cases of probabilities appearing in classical and quantum mechanics and the approach to generalized probabilities based on convex sets. We argue for considering quantum probabilities as the natural probabilistic assignments for rational agents dealing with contextual probabilistic models. In this way, the formal structure of quantum probabilities as a non-Boolean probabilistic calculus is endowed with a natural interpretation.
Love and Do What You Want: Augustine’s Pneumatological Love Ethics
Authors: Sandlin Mac S.
Published: July 2021

Augustine famously summarizes all of ethics in the maxim, “Love and do what you want” in his Homilies on the First Epistle of John, but also describes sin as misdirected love and humanity as characterized by sin. This raises the question as to how Augustine can offer such a maxim given humanity’s tendency to love so poorly. Aimed at ethicists and theologians with only a general knowledge of Augustine, this paper examines Augustine’s approach to ethics and its relationship to his theology of the Holy Spirit. By exploring the ordo amoris, the uti/frui distinction, and the doctrine of the Spirit as the inner-Trinitarian Love of the Father and the Son, I attempt to show how Augustine’s maxim can fit with his hamartiology.
Shifting of the Migration Route of White-Naped Crane (Antigone vipio) Due to Wetland Loss in China
Authors: Jia Yifei , Liu Yunzhu , Jiao Shengwu , Guo Jia , Lu Cai , Zhou Yan , Wang Yuyu , Lei Guangchun , Wen Li , Mo Xunqiang
Published: July 2021

In the last 15 years, the west population of white-naped crane (Antigone vipio) decreased dramatically despite the enhanced conservation actions in both breeding and wintering areas. Recent studies highlighted the importance of protecting the integrity of movement connectivity for migratory birds. Widespread and rapid landcover changes may exceed the adaptive capacity of migrants, leading to the collapse of migratory networks. In this study, using satellite tracking data, we modeled and characterized the migration routes of the white-naped crane at three spatial levels (core area, migratory corridor, and migratory path) based on the utilization distribution for two eras (1990s and 2010s) spanning 20 years. Our analysis demonstrated that the white-naped crane shifted its migratory route, which is supported by other lines of evidences. The widespread loss of wetlands, especially within the stopover sites, might have caused this behavioral adaptation. Moreover, our analysis indicated that the long-term sustainability of the new route is untested and likely to be questionable. Therefore, directing conservation effects to the new route might be insufficient for the long-term wellbeing of this threatened crane and large-scale wetland restorations in Bohai Bay, a critical stopover site in the East Asian-Australasian flyway, are of the utmost importance to the conservation of this species.
Towards Sustainable Management of Mussel Farming through High-Resolution Images and Open Source Software—The Taranto Case Study
Authors: Massarelli Carmine , Galeone Ciro , Savino Ilaria , Campanale Claudia , Uricchio Vito Felice
Published: July 2021

This research activity, conducted in collaboration with the Aero-Naval Operations Department of the Guardia di Finanza of Bari as part of the Special Commissioner for urgent measures of reclamation, environmental improvements and redevelopment of Taranto’s measurement, is based on the use of a high-resolution airborne sensor, mounted on board a helicopter to identify and map all in operation and abandoned mussel farming in the first and second inlet of Mar Piccolo. In addition, factors able to compromise the environmental status of the Mar Piccolo ecosystem were also evaluated. The methodological workflow developed lets extract significant individual frames from the captured video tracks, improves images by applying five image processing algorithms, georeferences the individual frames based on flight data, and implements the processed data in a thematic Geographical Information System. All mussel farms, in operation and derelict, all partially submerged and/or water-coated invisible to navigation poles and other elements such as illegal fishing nets and marine litter on the seabed up to about 2 m deep, have been identified and mapped. The creation of an instant, high-precision cartographic representation made it possible to identify the anthropogenic pressures on the Mar Piccolo of Taranto and the necessary actions for better management of the area.
Hybridizing Cross-Level Contextual and Attentive Representations for Remote Sensing Imagery Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Li Xin , Xu Feng , Xia Runliang , Lyu Xin , Gao Hongmin , Tong Yao
Published: July 2021

Semantic segmentation of remote sensing imagery is a fundamental task in intelligent interpretation. Since deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) performed considerable insight in learning implicit representations from data, numerous works in recent years have transferred the DCNN-based model to remote sensing data analysis. However, the wide-range observation areas, complex and diverse objects and illumination and imaging angle influence the pixels easily confused, leading to undesirable results. Therefore, a remote sensing imagery semantic segmentation neural network, named HCANet, is proposed to generate representative and discriminative representations for dense predictions. HCANet hybridizes cross-level contextual and attentive representations to emphasize the distinguishability of learned features. First of all, a cross-level contextual representation module (CCRM) is devised to exploit and harness the superpixel contextual information. Moreover, a hybrid representation enhancement module (HREM) is designed to fuse cross-level contextual and self-attentive representations flexibly. Furthermore, the decoder incorporates DUpsampling operation to boost the efficiency losslessly. The extensive experiments are implemented on the Vaihingen and Potsdam benchmarks. In addition, the results indicate that HCANet achieves excellent performance on overall accuracy and mean intersection over union. In addition, the ablation study further verifies the superiority of CCRM.
Identifying Misbehaving Greedy Nodes in IoT Networks
Authors: Sadek Fatima Salma , Belkadi Khaled , Abouaissa Abdelhafid , Lorenz Pascal
Published: July 2021

One of the central communication infrastructures of the Internet of Things (IoT) is the IEEE 802.15.4 standard, which defines Low Rate Wireless Personal Area Networks (LR- WPAN). In order to share the medium fairly in a non-beacon-enabled mode, the standard uses Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance (CSMA/CA). The nature of connected objects with respect to various resource constraints makes them vulnerable to cyber attacks. One of the most aggressive DoS attacks is the greedy behaviour attack which aims to deprive legitimate nodes to access to the communication medium. The greedy or selfish node may violate the proper use of the CSMA/CA protocol, by tampering its parameters, in order to take as much bandwidth as possible on the network, and then monopolize access to the medium by depriving legitimate nodes of communication. Based on the analysis of the difference between parameters of greedy and legitimate nodes, we propose a method based on the threshold mechanism to identify greedy nodes. The simulation results show that the proposed mechanism provides a detection efficiency of 99.5%.
Low-Cost Multispectral System Design for Pigment Analysis in Works of Art
Authors: Kleynhans Tania , Messinger David W. , Easton Roger L. , Delaney John K.
Published: July 2021

To better understand and preserve works of art, knowledge is needed about the pigments used to create the artwork. Various noninvasive techniques have been used previously to create pigment maps, such as combining X-ray fluorescence and hyperspectral imaging data. Unfortunately, most museums have limited funding for the expense of specialized research equipment, such as hyperspectral reflectance imaging systems. However, many museums have hand-held point X-ray fluorescence systems attached to motorized easels for scanning artwork. To assist museums in acquiring data that can produce similar results to that of HSI systems, while minimizing equipment costs, this study designed and modeled a prototype system to demonstrate the expected performance of a low-cost multispectral system that can be attached to existing motorized easels. We show that multispectral systems with a well-chosen set of spectral bands can often produce classification maps with value on par with hyperspectral systems. This study analyzed the potential for capturing data with a point scanning system through predefined filters. By applying the system and noise modeling parameters to HSI data captured from a 14th-Century illumination, the study reveals that the proposed multispectral imaging system is a viable option for this need.
An Instrument for the Characterization and Calibration of Optical Sensors
Authors: Gastasini Enrico , Capecci Niccolò , Lupi Francesco , Gagliardi Alessio , Saponara Sergio , Lanzetta Michele
Published: July 2021

This paper presents the development of a hardware/software system for the characterization of the electronic response of optical (camera) sensors such as matrix and linear color and monochrome Charge Coupled Device (CCD) or Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS). The electronic response of a sensor is required for inspection purposes. It also allows the design and calibration of the integrating device to achieve the desired performance. The proposed instrument equipment fulfills the most recent European Machine Vision Association (EMVA) 1288 standard ver. 3.1: the spatial non uniformity of the illumination ΔE must be under 3%, and the sensor must achieve an f-number of 8.0 concerning the light source. The following main innovations have achieved this: an Ulbricht sphere providing a uniform light distribution (irradiation) of 99.54%; an innovative illuminator with proper positioning of color Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and control electronics; and a flexible C# program to analyze the sensor parameters, namely Quantum Efficiency, Overall System Gain, Temporal Dark Noise, Dark Signal Non Uniformity (DSNU1288), Photo Response Non-Uniformity (PRNU1288), Maximum achievable Signal to Noise Ratio (SNRmax), Absolute sensitivity threshold, Saturation Capacity, Dynamic Range, and Dark Current. This new instrument has allowed a camera manufacturer to design, integrate, and inspect numerous devices and camera models (Necta, Celera, and Aria).
An Effective Self-Powered Piezoelectric Sensor for Monitoring Basketball Skills
Authors: Zhao Chongle , Jia Changjun , Zhu Yongsheng , Zhao Tianming
Published: July 2021

Self-powered piezoelectric sensor can achieve real-time and harmless monitoring of motion processes without external power supply, which can be attached on body skin or joints to detect human motion and powered by mechanical energy. Here, a sensor for monitoring emergent motion is developed using the PVDF as active material and piezoelectric output as sensing signal. The multi-point control function enables the sensor to monitor the sequence of force order, angle change, and motion frequency of the “elbow lift, arm extension, and wrist compression” during shooting basketball. In addition, the sensor shows can simultaneously charge the capacitor to provide more power for intelligence, typically Bluetooth transmission. The sensor shows good performance in other field, such as rehabilitation monitoring and speech input systems. Therefore, the emerging application of flexible sensors have huge long-term prospects in sport big data collection and Internet of Things (IoT).
Comparison of Two Electronic Physical Performance Batteries by Measurement Time and Sarcopenia Classification
Authors: Park Chan Mi , Jung Hee-Won , Jang Il-Young , Baek Ji Yeon , Yoon Seongjun , Roh Hyunchul , Lee Eunju
Published: July 2021

The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) is a widely accepted test for measuring lower extremity function in older adults. However, there are concerns regarding the examination time required to conduct a complete SPPB consisting of three components (walking speed, chair rise, and standing balance tests) in clinical settings. We aimed to assess specific examination times for each component of the electronic Short Physical Performance Battery (eSPPB) and compare the ability of the original three-component examinations (eSPPB) and a faster, two-component examination without a balance test (electronic Quick Physical Performance Battery, eQPPB) to classify sarcopenia. The study was a retrospective, cross-sectional study which included 124 ambulatory outpatients who underwent physical performance examination at a geriatric clinic of a tertiary, academic hospital in Seoul, Korea, between December 2020 and March 2021. For eSPPB, we used a toolkit containing sensors and software (Dyphi, Daejeon, Korea) developed to measure standing balance, walking speed, and chair rise test results. Component-specific time stamps were used to log the raw data. Duration of balance examination, 5 times sit-to-stand test (5XSST), and walking speed examination were calculated. Sarcopenia was determined using the 2019 Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) guideline. The median age was 78 years (interquartile range, IQR: 73,82) and 77 subjects (62.1%) were female. The total mean eSPPB test time was 124.8 ± 29.0 s (balance test time 61.8 ± 12.3 s, 49.5%; gait speed test time 34.3 ± 11.9 s, 27.5%; and 5XSST time 28.7 ± 19.1 s, 23.0%). The total mean eQPPB test time was 63.0 ± 25.4 s. Based on the AWGS criteria, 34 (27.4%) patient’s results were consistent with sarcopenia. C-statistics for classifying sarcopenia were 0.83 for eSPPB and 0.85 for eQPPB (p = 0.264), while eQPPB took 49.5% less measurement time compared with eSPPB. Breakdowns of eSPPB test times were identified. Omitting balance tests may reduce test time without significantly affecting the classifying ability of eSPPB for sarcopenia.
Process Variability in Top-Down Fabrication of Silicon Nanowire-Based Biosensor Arrays
Authors: Tintelott Marcel , Pachauri Vivek , Ingebrandt Sven , Vu Xuan Thang
Published: July 2021

Silicon nanowire field-effect transistors (SiNW-FET) have been studied as ultra-high sensitive sensors for the detection of biomolecules, metal ions, gas molecules and as an interface for biological systems due to their remarkable electronic properties. “Bottom-up” or “top-down” approaches that are used for the fabrication of SiNW-FET sensors have their respective limitations in terms of technology development. The “bottom-up” approach allows the synthesis of silicon nanowires (SiNW) in the range from a few nm to hundreds of nm in diameter. However, it is technologically challenging to realize reproducible bottom-up devices on a large scale for clinical biosensing applications. The top-down approach involves state-of-the-art lithography and nanofabrication techniques to cast SiNW down to a few 10s of nanometers in diameter out of high-quality Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) wafers in a controlled environment, enabling the large-scale fabrication of sensors for a myriad of applications. The possibility of their wafer-scale integration in standard semiconductor processes makes SiNW-FETs one of the most promising candidates for the next generation of biosensor platforms for applications in healthcare and medicine. Although advanced fabrication techniques are employed for fabricating SiNW, the sensor-to-sensor variation in the fabrication processes is one of the limiting factors for a large-scale production towards commercial applications. To provide a detailed overview of the technical aspects responsible for this sensor-to-sensor variation, we critically review and discuss the fundamental aspects that could lead to such a sensor-to-sensor variation, focusing on fabrication parameters and processes described in the state-of-the-art literature. Furthermore, we discuss the impact of functionalization aspects, surface modification, and system integration of the SiNW-FET biosensors on post-fabrication-induced sensor-to-sensor variations for biosensing experiments.
Dosimetric Application of Phosphorus Doped Fibre for X-ray and Proton Therapy
Authors: Olusoji Olugbenga J. , Penner Crystal , Bélanger-Champagne Camille , Kam Wern , Martyn Michael , Woulfe Peter , Hoehr Cornelia , O’Keeffe Sinead
Published: July 2021

Phosphorous-doped silica optical fibres with a core diameter of 4 µm were tested in X-ray and proton fields for application in cancer therapy dosimetry. Specifically, the radiation-induced attenuation was investigated in terms of linearity in deposited dose in 15 MV and 6 MV photons and 74 MeV protons, as well as Bragg-peak detection along the proton track. Fibres were found to demonstrate linear relative dose response in both radiation modalities, but possible saturation did occur at the high linear energy transfer of the Bragg peak. This demonstrates the possibility to use these fibres as a relative dosimeter for radiation therapy applications.
Quantitative Capillary Electrophoresis for Analysis of Extracellular Vesicles (EVqCE)
Authors: Dou Yuchu , Ren Lixuan , Kulabhusan Prabir , Zaripov Emil , Berezovski Maxim
Published: July 2021

Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) gained significant interest within the last decade as a new source of biomarkers for the early detection of diseases and a promising tool for therapeutic applications. In this work, we present Extracellular Vesicles Quantitative Capillary Electrophoresis (EVqCE) to measure an average mass of RNA in EVs, determine EV concentrations and the degree of EV degradation after sample handling. We used EVqCE to analyze EVs isolated from conditioned media of three cancer cell lines. EVqCE employs capillary zone electrophoresis with laser-induced fluorescent detection to separate intact EVs from free nucleic acids. After lysis of EVs with a detergent, the encapsulated nucleic acids are released. Therefore, the initial concentration of intact EVs is calculated based on a nucleic acid peak gain. EVqCE works in a dynamic range of EV concentrations from 108 to 1010 particles/mL. The quantification process can be completed in less than one hour and requires minimum optimization. Furthermore, the average mass of RNA was found to be in the range of 200–400 ag per particle, noting that more aggressive cancer cells have less RNA in EVs (200 ag per particle) than non-aggressive cancer cells (350 ag per particle). EVqCE works well for the degradation analysis of EVs. Sonication for 10 min at 40 kHz caused 85% degradation of EVs, 10 freeze-thaw cycles (from −80 °C to 22 °C) produced 40%, 14-day storage at 4 °C made 32%, and vortexing for 5 min caused 5% degradation. Presently, EVqCE cannot separate and distinguish individual EV populations (exosomes, microvesicles, apoptotic bodies) from each other. Still, it is tolerant to the presence of non-EV particles, protein-lipid complexes, and protein aggregates.
Sustainable Technologies for Older Adults
Authors: Morato Jorge , Sanchez-Cuadrado Sonia , Iglesias Ana , Campillo Adrián , Fernández-Panadero Carmen
Published: July 2021

The exponential evolution of technology and the growth of the elderly population are two phenomena that will inevitably interact with increasing frequency in the future. This paper analyses scientific literature as a means of furthering progress in sustainable technology for senior living. We carried out a bibliometric analysis of papers published in this area and compiled by the Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus, examining the main participants and advances in the field from 2000 to the first quarter of 2021. The study describes some interesting research projects addressing three different aspects of older adults’ daily lives—health, daily activities and wellbeing—and policies to promote healthy aging and improve the sustainability of the healthcare system. It also looks at lines of research into transversal characteristics of technology. Our analysis showed that publications mentioning sustainability technologies for older adults have been growing progressively since the 2000s, but that the big increase in the number of research works in this area took place during the period 2016–2021. These more recent works show a tendency to study those factors that improve healthy aging, ensure the social inclusion of the elderly through technology and prolong the time in which they can live independent lives thanks to smart environments. Current research gaps in the literature are also discussed.
Sustainability Transparency and Trustworthiness of Traditional and Blockchain Ecolabels: A Comparison of Generations X and Y Consumers
Authors: Navas Rebekkah , Chang Hyo Jung (Julie) , Khan Samina , Chong Jo Woon
Published: July 2021

Consumers and professionals realize the importance of adopting social and environmental responsibility, but it is not easy for companies to implement transparent sustainability strategies that consumers can trust. Thus, it is often hard for consumers to compare brands to make conscious sustainability decisions. Blockchain technology is proposed as a bridge between ecolabels and industry initiatives as this technology provides the transparency of sustainable business practices. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of effectiveness, knowledge of the sustainability initiative, and trust in claims made by a company in ecolabels (i.e., traditional and blockchain ecolabels) on intention to buy products by comparing Generations X and Y. A total of 200 participants completed the survey. The results indicated that both the trust and knowledge measures were higher for the blockchain label than for the traditional ecolabel for Generation Y. Thus, the companies should determine how to effectively integrate this technology to the mutual benefit of the retailer and consumer by different generations.
Understanding the Potential Influence of WeChat Engagement on Bonding Capital, Bridging Capital, and Electronic Word-of-Mouth Intention
Authors: Pang Hua , Wang Jingying , Hu Xiang
Published: July 2021

As the most prevalent social media platform in mainland China, WeChat enables interpersonal communication among users and serves as an innovative marketing platform for enterprises to interact with consumers. Although numerous studies have investigated the antecedents of electronic word-of-mouth (e-WOM), WeChat users’ specific behaviors still receive limited academic attention. Drawing from social capital theory and social exchange theory, this article develops a model to systematically explore three differentiated types of WeChat behaviors and their association with users’ social capital and e-WOM intention. The conceptual model is explicitly evaluated by utilizing web-based data gathered from 271 young people. Obtained results demonstrate the path effects indicating that: (1) WeChat use behaviors such as seeking, sharing, and liking can positively influence bonding social capital, while only the impacts of sharing and liking on bridging social capital are significant; (2) bonding and bridging social capital are both significant predictors of e-WOM intention, and bonding social capital is the more influential of the two; (3) bonding social capital partially mediates the effect of seeking on e-WOM intention. These findings are eloquent for researchers and operators to further grasp the increasing importance of WeChat adoption and social capital on young generations’ e-WOM intention in the evolving digital age.
A Hybrid Supply Chain Risk Management Approach for Lean Green Performance Based on AHP, RCA and TRIZ: A Case Study
Authors: Essaber Fatima Ezzahra , Benmoussa Rachid , De Guio Roland , Dubois Sébastien
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this research work is to provide supply chain managers with a formal and generalizable approach that furnishes accurate guidelines to achieve a 2D performance integrating both Lean and Green. Despite the fact that several research works have been conducted in the framework of Lean and Green, at a conceptual level, the relationship between both paradigms is still ambiguous. Furthermore, the literature revealed a lack of relevant and generalizable approaches that explicitly demonstrate how to successfully implement Lean and Green in a relevant and integrated way. Since risks are the main obstacles disrupting performance, this research work addresses the identified gap by proposing a risk management approach (RMA) for Lean Green performance in a supply-chain context. Risk cannot be managed if not well-identified; hence, a rigorous literature investigation was conducted to define this concept in a supply-chain context. Later, risk was introduced into Lean and Green aspects. Subsequently, through a comprehensive review of previous risk identification studies, a novel classification of supply chain risks in a Lean Green context was provided. At a corporate level, risks often include several sources that cannot be treated at once. Therefore, a risk assessment analysis was performed, employing an analytic hierarchy process for its ease of use and broad adaptability. The output of this analysis provides visibility for an organization’s position toward performance goals and underlines crucial risks to be addressed. The risk treatment process was upgraded in this approach to a detailed analysis that aims at investigating the root causes behind the prioritized risks. Deployment of the approach on a corporate level revealed that treating a risk may negatively affect treating another. Indeed, thinking Lean is not necessarily Green, which stands with the fact that Lean Green supply chain challenges may outstrip classic optimization methods and techniques; therefore, its management requires innovative approaches. Thereby, our findings support the applicability and efficiency of the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) in this setting. Although the case study focused on a specific company, the developed framework can be customized to fit different cases.
Sustainable Human Resource Management and Generational Diversity: The Importance of the Age Management Pillars
Authors: Vraňaková Natália , Gyurák Babeľová Zdenka , Chlpeková Andrea
Published: July 2021

The issue of population aging is currently highly topical. In the context of population aging, age management comes to the fore. It addresses the management of human resources with regard to the age and potential of employees. The main aim of the article is to present the results of research focused on the importance of age management pillars from the perspective of employees from different generational groups in industrial enterprises in Slovakia. Based on established research questions and the research hypothesis, we can state that the perceived importance of age management pillars differs depending on the affiliation to the generational group. The research hypothesis was confirmed, and we conclude that there is a dependence between generational groups of employees from industrial enterprises in Slovakia and the importance of the age management pillars (the number of designations in a pairwise comparison). As a data collection tool, a research questionnaire was created. Collected data were evaluated based on a pairwise comparison of the perceived importance of age management pillars for employees. The research sample consisted of N = 384 respondents (employees of large industrial enterprises in Slovakia). When considering the research results, the use allows approaching the management of different generations of employees directly within the framework of sustainable human resource management. The research problem is also supported by resources and theoretical background.
Environmental Education Catalyzed by Tourism: Ecoliteracy Initiatives on the Coast of Kenya
Authors: Berman Nina
Published: July 2021

The Diani-Ukunda area on the Kenyan coast is one of the main tourism centers of the country. Over time, individuals who originally visited the area as tourists have started sustainability initiatives that are in part funded through donor networks from abroad (drawing on individuals who visited the country initially as tourists). This essay explores select German initiatives in the educational sector that have emerged in the context of the area’s tourism industry. Diani Maendeleo Academy (a secondary school for girls) and the six primary and secondary schools known as Mekaela Academies collectively serve a significant portion of the population of the larger Diani-Ukunda area, including the hinterland extending widely into Kwale County. The study was designed to assess the schools’ approach toward sustainability and ecoliteracy, and centered on the following questions: 1. What kinds of sustainable practices are promoted in the select schools? 2. In what ways do students who attend these schools display environmental literacy? 3. Do these initiatives address UN SDGs, known as Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)? The study follows an interdisciplinary mixed method approach and is based on interviews, survey instruments, research on ecoliteracy and educational policy, and fieldwork data from previous stays. Findings reveal a lesser-known dimension of tourism: namely, the successful pursuit of ESD in schools thriving in the context of tourism through an integrated approach towards teaching ecoliteracy.
Cumulants of Multivariate Symmetric and Skew Symmetric Distributions
Authors: Jammalamadaka Sreenivasa Rao , Taufer Emanuele , Terdik Gyorgy H.
Published: July 2021

This paper provides a systematic and comprehensive treatment for obtaining general expressions of any order, for the moments and cumulants of spherically and elliptically symmetric multivariate distributions; results for the case of multivariate t-distribution and related skew-t distribution are discussed in some detail.
Three-Way Multi-Attribute Decision Making Based on Outranking Relations under Intuitionistic Fuzzy Environments
Authors: Gong Zengtai , Fan Le
Published: July 2021

With the increasing complexity of the human social environment, it is impossible to describe each object in detail with accurate numbers when solving multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) problems. Compared with the fuzzy set (FS), the intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS) not only has obvious advantages in allocating ambiguous values to the object to be considered, but also takes into account the degree of membership and non-membership, so it is more suitable for decision makers (DMs) to deal with complex realistic problems. Therefore, it is of great significance to propose a MADM method under an intuitionistic fuzzy environment. Moreover, compared with the traditional 2WD, by putting forward the option of delay, the decision-making risk can be effectively reduced using three-way decision (3WD). In addition, the binary relations between objects in the decision-making process have been continuously generalized, such as equivalence relation which have symmetrical relationship, dominance relation and outranking relation, which are worthy of study. In this paper, we propose 3WD-MADM method based on IF environment and the objective IFS is calculated by using the information table. Then, the hybrid information table is used to solve the supplier selection problem to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Criterion Validity of iOS and Android Applications to Measure Steps and Distance in Adults
Authors: Adamakis Manolis
Published: July 2021

The growing popularity of physical activity (PA) applications (apps) in recent years and the vast amounts of data that they generate present attractive possibilities for surveillance. However, measurement accuracy is indispensable when tracking PA variables to provide meaningful measures of PA. The purpose of this study was to examine the steps and distance criterion validity of freeware accelerometer-based PA smartphone apps, during incremental-intensity treadmill walking and jogging. Thirty healthy adults (25.9 ± 5.7 years) participated in this cross-sectional study. They were fitted with two smartphones (one with Android and one with iOS operating systems), each one simultaneously running four different apps (i.e., Runtastic Pedometer, Accupedo, Pacer, and Argus). They walked and jogged for 5 min at each of the predefined speeds of 4.8, 6.0, and 8.4 km/h on a treadmill, and two researchers counted every step taken during trials with a digital tally counter. Validity was evaluated by comparing each app with the criterion measure using repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), mean absolute percentage errors (MAPEs), and Bland–Altman plots. For step count, Android apps performed slightly more accurately that iOS apps; nevertheless, MAPEs were generally low for all apps (<5%) and accuracy increased at higher speeds. On the other hand, errors were significantly higher for distance estimation (>10%). The findings suggest that accelerometer-based apps are accurate tools for counting steps during treadmill walking and jogging and could be considered suitable for use as an outcome measure within a clinical trial. However, none of the examined apps was suitable for measuring distance.
Scalable Reporter Assays to Analyze the Regulation of stx2 Expression in Shiga Toxin-Producing Enteropathogens
Authors: Koeppel Martin B. , Glaser Jana , Baumgartner Tobias , Spriewald Stefanie , Gerlach Roman G. , von Armansperg Benedikt , Leong John M. , Stecher Bärbel
Published: July 2021

Stx2 is the major virulence factor of EHEC and is associated with an increased risk for HUS in infected patients. The conditions influencing its expression in the intestinal tract are largely unknown. For optimal management and treatment of infected patients, the identification of environmental conditions modulating Stx2 levels in the human gut is of central importance. In this study, we established a set of chromosomal stx2 reporter assays. One system is based on superfolder GFP (sfGFP) using a T7 polymerase/T7 promoter-based amplification loop. This reporter can be used to analyze stx2 expression at the single-cell level using FACSs and fluorescence microscopy. The other system is based on the cytosolic release of the Gaussia princeps luciferase (gluc). This latter reporter proves to be a highly sensitive and scalable reporter assay that can be used to quantify reporter protein in the culture supernatant. We envision that this new set of reporter tools will be highly useful to comprehensively analyze the influence of environmental and host factors, including drugs, small metabolites and the microbiota, on Stx2 release and thereby serve the identification of risk factors and new therapies in Stx-mediated pathologies.
Molecular Epidemiology and Characterization of Picobirnavirus in Wild Deer and Cattle from Australia: Evidence of Genogroup I and II in the Upper Respiratory Tract
Authors: Huaman Jose L. , Pacioni Carlo , Sarker Subir , Doyle Mark , Forsyth David M. , Pople Anthony , Hampton Jordan O. , Carvalho Teresa G. , Helbig Karla J.
Published: July 2021

Picobirnaviruses (PBVs) have been detected in several species of animals worldwide; however, data pertaining to their presence in Australian wild and domestic animals are limited. Although PBVs are mostly found in faecal samples, their detection in blood and respiratory tract samples raises questions concerning their tropism and pathogenicity. We report here PBV detection in wild deer and cattle from southeastern Australia. Through metagenomics, the presence of PBV genogroups I (GI) and II (GII) were detected in deer serum and plasma. Molecular epidemiology studies targeting the partial RNA-dependent RNA polymerase gene were performed in a wide range of specimens (serum, faeces, spleen, lung, nasal swabs, and trachea) collected from wild deer and cattle, with PCR amplification obtained in all specimen types except lung and spleen. Our results reveal the predominance of GI and concomitant detection of both genogroups in wild deer and cattle. In concordance with other studies, the detected GI sequences displayed high genetic diversity, however in contrast, GII sequences clustered into three distinct clades. Detection of both genogroups in the upper respiratory tract (trachea and nasal swab) of deer in the present study gives more evidence about the respiratory tract tropism of PBV. Although much remains unknown about the epidemiology and tropism of PBVs, our study suggests a wide distribution of these viruses in southeastern Australia.
Infectious Bronchitis Hatchery Vaccination: Comparison between Traditional Spray Administration and a Newly Developed Gel Delivery System in Field Conditions
Authors: Legnardi Matteo , Baranyay Henrik , Simon Csanád , Molnár János , Bijlsma Tiede , Cecchinato Mattia , Gáspárdy András , Bersényi András , Tucciarone Claudia , Franzo Giovanni , Kőrösi László
Published: July 2021

The control of infectious bronchitis (IB) is essential in intensive broiler production and is pursued through strict biosecurity and mass vaccination. Despite effective and routinely adopted, hatchery spray vaccination has been hypothesized to affect chicks’ body temperature and wellbeing. Recently, gel administration has been proposed as an alternative and proved feasible in experimental settings. In this study, IBV spray and gel vaccination methods were compared in field conditions. One hundred birds from the same hatch were enrolled in the study and vaccinated, half by spray and half by gel, with 793B and Mass vaccines. After vaccination, rectal temperature was measured and vaccine intake assessed. The two groups were housed for 35 days in separate pens and swabs and blood samples were collected at multiple time points for genotype-specific molecular analyses and serology, respectively. The temperature was significantly lower in spray-vaccinated chicks 10 min and an hour after administration. A similar trend in 793B titres was observed in both groups, while the Mass vaccine was detected later but persisted longer in gel-vaccinated chicks. No differences were observed in mean antibody titres. Compared to spray, gel administration appears equally effective and less impactful on body temperature, thus supporting its application for IBV vaccination.
Risk Analysis of Heavy Metal Accumulation from Sewage Sludge of Selected Wastewater Treatment Plants in Poland
Authors: Kowalik Robert , Latosińska Jolanta , Gawdzik Jarosław
Published: July 2021

Sewage sludge (SS) from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) has important soil-forming and fertilizing properties. However, it may not always be used for this purpose. One of the main reasons why SS cannot be used for natural purposes is its heavy metal (HM) content. SS from the wastewater treatment plant in Poland was subjected to an analysis of the potential anthropogenic hazard of HMs, especially in terms of their mobility and accumulation in soil. Calculations were made for the concentrations of HMs in SS from the analyzed wastewater treatment plants and in arable soil from measurement points in places of its potential use. The geoaccumulation index (GAI), potential environmental risk index (PERI), risk assessment code (RAC) and environmental risk determinant (ERD) were calculated. Then the values of the indicators were compared with the mobility of HMs, which was the highest risk of soil contamination. It was shown that a high level of potential risk and geoaccumulation indicators did not necessarily disqualify the use of SS, provided that HMs were in immovable fractions.
Historical and economic issues of pension provision for agricultural workers in the light of IFRS
Authors: Livanova Rimma Veniaminovna , Myrksina Yulia Aleksandrovna
Published: July 2021

Comparative characteristics of the economic categories «Employee benefits», «pension plans», «Wages», «insurance premiums» are given. A historical study of the formation and development of the pension system in Russia and the issues of pension provision for agricultural workers has been conducted. Further prerequisites for this development are identified.
First record of Belminus laportei Lent, Jurberg & Carcavallo, 1995 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae) from French Guiana
Authors: Gil-Santana Hélcio R. , de Oliveira Jader
Published: July 2021

The occurrence of Belminus laportei Lent, Jurberg & Carcavallo, 1995 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae) in French Guiana is reported for the first time. A triatomine specimen collected in Bélizon, French Guiana was found to be a female of Belminus laportei, a species known so far only from Pará State, Brazil. The discovery of this species broadens its known geographic distribution and increases the number of triatomines recorded from the French Guiana to fifteen.
Rediscovery of Popinjay, Stibochiona nicea (Gray, 1846) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Nymphalinae) from Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India
Authors: Singh Sumit , Sheikh Taslima
Published: July 2021

Stibochiona nicea (Gray, 1846), known as Popinjay, is rediscovered from Sarthal area in Tehsil Bani of Jammu and Kashmir, India after 123 years.