bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effectiveness of External Verbal Feedback on Balance in Athletes with Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Parlakidis Konstantinos , Kontopoulos Lazaros Alexandors , Mandalidis Dimitris , Paraskevopoulos Eleftherios , Papandreou Maria , Kapreli Eleni , Christakou Anna
Published: March 2024

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is characterized by muscle weakness and impaired neuromuscular control. This study aimed (a) to assess the impact of external verbal feedback on the dynamic balance of athletes with CAI and (b) to examine the maintenance of dynamic balance ability after the end of the completion of the intervention balance program. Thirty athletes (mean age 21.63 ± 1.53) were randomly divided into three groups: an experimental group with external verbal feedback, 1st control group without external verbal feedback and the 2nd control group without balance training and without feedback. Assessments using a balance board and the ‘Y-balance’ test were conducted before and after the balance training period. Additionally, participants completed the Cumberland Ankle Joint Instability Tool. A retention test of balance ability was administered after the 4-week intervention period. Statistical analysis revealed a significant overall improvement in balance (F(2,36) =5.96, p = 0.006, partial η2 =0.249), including those with no balance training, but no significant differences between the groups. Thus, the external verbal feedback did not show a positive impact on the balance ability between the three different groups. Also, the experimental group with the external verbal feedback demonstrated maintenance of dynamic balance learning ability. Although it appears that balance training has a positive effect on the dynamic balance of individuals with CAI, a non-positive impact of external verbal feedback was found. Also, it appears that external verbal feedback significantly led to sustained retention of balance learning ability. Further research is recommended to validate these findings.
Additive In-Time Manufacturing of Customised Orthoses
Authors: Friedrich Christian , Rothstock Stephan , Slabon Laura , Ihlenfeldt Steffen
Published: March 2024

Additive manufacturing of plastic components in medical technology enables greater freedom of design when designing patient-specific products, in particular, in production of customised medical products, such as orthoses. In the present contribution, the advantages of a digital process chain are combined, from the 3D scan of the patient to CAD-supported modelling of the corrective form and the orthosis design until the path planning of a printable geometry. The main disadvantages of current additive printing techniques, such as the fused filament fabrication (FFF) process, are high printing times (>12 h) for larger components as well as the low degree of freedom in the 2.5D printing technique that prevent the subsequent application of geometry features to the product. The fast SEAMHex (Screw Extrusion Additive Manufacturing) printing technology with a hexapod kinematic printing bed provides a solution to the mentioned difficulties. Consequently, the high-performance printer has been prepared for the individual requirements of medical technology in terms of materials and geometries. An effective additive manufacturing process has been realised and tested in combination with a digital process chain for orthosis modelling.
The Effect of AI Agent Gender on Trust and Grounding
Authors: Jeon Joo-Eon
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) agents are widely used in the retail and distribution industry. The primary objective was to investigate whether the gender of AI agents influences trust and grounding. This paper examined the influence of AI agent gender and brand concepts on trust and grounding within virtual brand spaces. For this purpose, it used two independent variables: brand concept (functional vs. experiential) and AI agent gender (male vs. female). The dependent variables included AI agent trust and grounding. The study revealed that in virtual brand spaces centered around a functional concept, male AI agents generated higher levels of trust than female AI agents, whereas, when focused on an experiential concept, female AI agents induced higher levels of grounding than male AI agents. Furthermore, the findings indicate that the association between customers’ identification with AI agents and recommendations for actual brand purchases is mediated by trust and grounding. These findings support the idea that users who strongly identify with AI agents are more inclined to recommend brand products. By presenting alternatives that foster the establishment and sustenance of a meaningful, sustainable relationship between humans and AI, this study contributes to research on human–computer interactions.
Exploration of Textile–Silicone Composites and Materials for Personal Impact-Resistant Protection
Authors: Chan Mei-Ki , Li Pui-Ling , Yick Kit-Lun , Yip Joanne , Ng Sun-Pui
Published: March 2024

Conventional cushioning materials such as silicone sheets which have been recommended for resisting impact generally cause discomfort to the wearer from heat and perspiration. With the increasing need for personal protective equipment, textile–silicone composite structures are proposed in this study to reduce acute impact and moisture while enhancing thermal comfort. The influence of the composite structure and thickness on the mechanical and thermal properties of textile–silicone materials are systematically investigated. The results show that an additional knitted powernet fabric as a composite material can significantly improve the tensile properties of silicone rubber by up to 315%. However, only a slight improvement is found in the thermal conductivity (up to 16%), compression elasticity (up to 18%) and force reduction performance (up to 3.6%). As compared to inlaid spacer fabric, which has also been used for cushioning and preserving thermal comfort, the textile–silicone composites have higher tensile and compression elasticity, exhibit force reduction with the largest difference of 43% and are more thermally conductive, with increases more than 38%. The findings of this study introduced a cost-effective new silicone–textile composite for optimal impact protection and wear comfort for protective applications.
Tailoring Iridium Valence States on ZSM-5 for Enhanced Catalytic Performance in CO Selective Catalytic Reduction of NO under Oxygen-Enriched Environments
Authors: Bai Yarong , Miao Chuhan , Ouyang Weilong , Wang Lang , Wang Haiqiang , Wu Zhongbiao
Published: March 2024

Barium and iridium supported on Zeolite Socony Mobil-5 (ZSM-5) are efficient catalysts for the selective catalytic reduction of nitric oxide by carbon monoxide (CO-SCR), with enhanced cyclic stability. The introduction of Ba hindered the oxidation of metallic Ir active species and enabled Ir to maintain an active metallic state, thereby preventing a decrease in catalytic activity in the CO-SCR reaction. Moreover, the Ba modification increased the NO adsorption of the catalyst, further improving the catalytic activity. Owing to the better anti-oxidation ability of Ir0 in IrBa0.2/ZSM-5(27) than in Ir/ZSM-5(27), IrBa0.2/ZSM-5(27) showed better stability than Ir/ZSM-5(27). Considering that all samples in the present study were tested to simulate actual flue gases (such as sintering flue gas and coke oven flue gas), NH3 was introduced into the reaction system to serve as an extra reductant for NOx. The NOx conversion to N2 (77.1%) was substantially improved using the NH3-CO-SCR system. The proposed catalysts and reaction systems are promising alternatives for treating flue gas, which contains considerable amounts of NOx and CO in oxygen-enriched environments.
Effect of PVA Fiber on the Mechanical Properties of Seawater Coral Sand Engineered Cementitious Composites
Authors: Han Hongwei , Gao Gongwen , Li Yu , Hou Dongxu , Han Yudong
Published: March 2024

The physical and mechanical characteristics of seawater coral sand engineered cementitious composites (SCECC) were examined through uniaxial compression, three-point bending, and splitting tensile tests. The mechanical properties were scrutinized under varying fiber volume fraction conditions (V = 0%, 0.575%, 1.150%, 1.725%, and 2.300%). The experimental results indicated that the compressive strength, three-point bending strength, and split tensile strength of SCECC tended to increase with the rise in fiber volume fraction. The strengths attained their maximum values of 45.88, 12.56, and 3.03 MPa when the fiber volume fraction reached 2.300%. In the compression test, the compressive strength of the 7-day specimen can achieve more than 78.50% of that observed in the 28-day specimen. Three-point bending test has revealed that SCECC exhibits favorable strain-hardening and multi-crack cracking characteristics. Fracture patterns of SCECC exhibited variations corresponding to changes in fiber content, as illustrated by their load–deformation curves, the addition of PVA fibers can change the damage mode of cementitious composites from brittle to ductile. The fracture energy of SCECC further attests to its elevated toughness. This is due to the fact that the fibers delay the formation of microcracks and prevent crack expansion, thus significantly increasing the deformability of the material. By verifying its strength, deformability, fracture energy, and other key performance indicators, the feasibility of SCECC in coastal construction projects has been clarified. The successful development of SCECC provides an innovative and high-performance option for the construction of future island projects.
Research on Key Technologies of Microarray Chips for Detecting Drug-Resistant Genes in Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Guo Hongzhuang , Jin Xiuyan , Zhang Hao , Gong Ping , Wang Xin , Sun Tingting
Published: March 2024

In addressing the detection of drug resistance in Helicobacter pylori, we have successfully developed an efficient and highly accurate detection methodology. Initially, we designed and fabricated a microarray chip, which underwent finite element analysis for its optical and thermal characteristics. Ultimately, COC material was chosen as the processing material for the chip, ensuring superior performance. Subsequently, we established a comprehensive detection system and validated its performance. Following that, comparative experiments were conducted for detecting drug resistance in H. pylori. The experimental results indicate that our established methodology aligns with the results obtained using the E-test detection kit, achieving a concordance rate of 100%. In comparison to the E-test detection kit, our methodology reduces the detection time to 1.5 h and provides a more extensive coverage of detection sites.
Anticancer Potential and Safety Profile of β-Lapachone In Vitro
Authors: Lima Karina Motta Melo , Calandrini de Azevedo Luana França , Rissino Jorge Dores , Vale Valdicley Vieira , Costa Erica Vanessa Souza , Dolabela Maria Fani , Nagamachi Cleusa Yoshiko , Pieczarka Julio Cesar
Published: March 2024

Ipê is a plant of the Bignoniaceae family. Among the compounds extracted from this tree, lapachol is notable because its structural modification allows the production of β-lapachone, which has anticancer properties. The objective of this work was to test this hypothesis at a cellular level in vitro and assess its potential safety for use. The following tests were performed: MTT cell viability assay, apoptotic index determination, comet assay, and micronucleus test. The results showed that β-lapachone had a high cytotoxic capacity for all cell lines tested: ACP02 (gastric adenocarcinoma cells), MCF7 (breast carcinoma cells), HCT116 (colon cancer cells) and HEPG2 (hepatocellular carcinoma cells). Regarding genotoxicity, the exposure of cells to sublethal doses of β-lapachone induced DNA damage (assessed by the comet assay) and nuclear abnormalities, such as nucleoplasmic bridges and nuclear buds (assessed by the micronucleus test). All tested cell lines responded similarly to β-lapachone, except for ACP02 cells, which were relatively resistant to the cytotoxic effects of the compound in the MTT test. Our results collectively indicate that although β-lapachone showed antiproliferative activity against cancer cell lines, it also caused harmful effects in these cells, suggesting that the use of β-lapachone in treating cancer should be carried out with caution.
Nitric Oxide (NO) Synthase Inhibitors: Potential Candidates for the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders?
Authors: Pitsikas Nikolaos
Published: March 2024

Close to 19% of the world population suffers from anxiety. Current medications for this chronic mental disorder have improved treatment over the last half century or more, but the newer anxiolytics have proved disappointing, and enormous challenges remain. Nitric oxide (NO), an intra- and inter-cellular messenger in the brain, is involved in the pathogenesis of anxiety. In particular, excessive NO production might contribute to its pathology. This implies that it might be useful to reduce nitrergic activity; therefore, molecules aiming to downregulate NO production such as NO synthase inhibitors (NOSIs) might be candidates. Here, it was intended to critically review advances in research on these emerging molecules for the treatment of anxiety disorders. Current assessment indicates that, although NOSIs are implicated in anxiety, their potential anti-anxiety action remains to be established.
A Study on the Adsorption of Rhodamine B onto Adsorbents Prepared from Low-Carbon Fossils: Kinetic, Isotherm, and Thermodynamic Analyses
Authors: Bazan-Wozniak Aleksandra , Jędrzejczak Aleksandra , Wolski Robert , Kaczmarek Sławomir , Nosal-Wiercińska Agnieszka , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta , Yagmur-Kabas Sultan , Pietrzak Robert
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to obtain a series of activated carbon samples by the chemical activation of low-rank coal. The precursor was impregnated with a NaOH solution. Activated carbons were characterized by determining their textural parameters and content of surface oxygen functional groups and by using an elemental analysis. The carbons were tested as potential adsorbents for the removal of liquid pollutants represented by rhodamine B. The effectiveness of rhodamine B removal from water solutions depended on the initial concentration of the dye, the mass of rhodamine B, and the pH and temperature of the reaction. The isotherm examination followed the Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum adsorption capacity of the rhodamine B was 119 mg/g. The kinetic investigation favored the pseudo-second-order model, indicating a chemisorption mechanism. The thermodynamic assessment indicated spontaneous and endothermic adsorption, with decreased randomness at the solid–liquid interface. The experiment revealed that a 0.1 M HCl solution was the most effective regenerative agent.
Construction of Uniform LiF Coating Layers for Stable High-Voltage LiCoO2 Cathodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Xiao Ziyang , Zhu Xiangbing , Wang Shuguang , Shi Yanhong , Zhang Huimin , Xu Baobin , Zhao Changfeng , Zhao Yan
Published: March 2024

Stabilizing LiCoO2 (LCO) at 4.5 V rather than the common 4.2 V is important for the high specific capacity. In this study, we developed a simple and efficient way to improve the stability of LiCoO2 at high voltages. After a simple sol–gel method, we introduced trifluoroacetic acid (TA) to the surface of LCO via an afterwards calcination. Meanwhile, the TA reacted with residual lithium on the surface of LCO, further leading to the formation of uniform LiF nanoshells. The LiF nanoshells could effectively restrict the interfacial side reaction, hinder the transition metal dissolution and thus achieve a stable cathode–electrolyte interface at high working-voltages. As a result, the LCO@LiF demonstrated a much superior cycling stability with a capacity retention ratio of 83.54% after 100 cycles compared with the bare ones (43.3% for capacity retention), as well as high rate performances. Notably, LiF coating layers endow LCO with excellent high-temperature performances and outstanding full-cell performances. This work provides a simple and effective way to prepare stable LCO materials working at a high voltage.
The Potential Role of the Extracellular Matrix Glycoprotein Reelin in Glioblastoma Biology
Authors: Ongemach Erika , Zerrinius Daniela , Heimann Philipp , Wirtz Christian Rainer , Debatin Klaus-Michael , Westhoff Mike-Andrew , Peraud Aurelia
Published: March 2024

Glioblastoma, the most common and lethal primary adult brain tumor, cannot be successfully removed surgically due to its highly invasive nature. Therapeutically, approaches must be aimed at a systemic brain disease and not merely at a tumor located within the brain, unless a successful containment strategy can be found. Reelin, an extracellular matrix glycoprotein, plays an important role in neuronal migration and serves here as a natural stop signal. Interestingly, the expression of reelin is negatively associated with tumor grade and, within glioblastoma, correlates with increased overall survival. To further elucidate a potential biological reason for these findings, we looked at the cellular behavior of glioblastoma cell lines grown on a pure fibronectin matrix or a matrix with reelin inserts. While reelin had no significant effects on cellular metabolism, proliferation, or resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, it did significantly affect the cells’ interaction with fibronectin. Both matrix attachment and detachment were modulated by reelin, and thus, the invasion and motility of cells interacting with a reelin-containing matrix were altered. The data presented in this work strongly suggest that reelin might be a potential modulator of underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to glioblastoma invasion.
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Prescription Stimulant Use in Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Beatty Avery , Shepard Emily , Bickford Erek , Weyandt Lisa
Published: March 2024

Nonmedical prescription stimulant use (NPSU) is an ongoing public health crisis in the United States. There exists, however, a dearth of research investigating specific childhood risk factors that may contribute to this illicit use. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) may be a significant risk factor to address in the prevention and treatment of NPSU, as research has provided evidence for increased substance use, potentially including prescription stimulant misuse, among individuals who have experienced trauma. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to gather and synthesize research articles specifically examining the relationship between nonmedical prescription stimulant use in adults and the experience of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Four studies met all inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The results demonstrated that the nonmedical use of prescription stimulants in adults is significantly associated with ACEs, with a higher numerical count of ACEs associated with a greater likelihood of nonmedical prescription stimulant use. Gaps in the literature were identified, specifically noting a lack of information available regarding the relationship between ACEs and NPSU within gender- and racially diverse populations. The findings have implications for informing interventions related to ACEs and the misuse of prescription stimulant medication in adults.
Strategies for Improving Sustainability in the Development of High-Performance Styrenic Block Copolymers by Developing Blends with Cellulose Derivatives
Authors: Pajares Erika , Maestu Josu Fernández , Fernandez-de-Mendiola Irati , Silvan Unai , Costa Pedro , Agirrezabal-Telleria Iker , Tubio Carmen R. , Corona-Galván Sergio , Lanceros-Mendez Senentxu
Published: March 2024

Next-generation high-performance polymers require consideration as sustainable solutions. Here, to satisfy these criteria, we propose to combine high-performance styrenic block copolymers, a class of thermoplastic elastomer, with cellulose derivatives as a reinforcing agent with the aim of maintaining and/or improving structural and surface properties. A great advantage of the proposed blends is, besides their biocompatibility, a decrease in environmental impact due to blending with a natural polymer. Particularly, we focus on identifying the effect of different blending compounds and blend ratios on the morphological, structural, thermal, mechanical, electrical and cytotoxic characteristics of materials. This research provides, together with novel material formulations, practical guidelines for the design and fabrication of next-generation sustainable high-performance polymers.
The Effect of Nonterminal Liquid Crystalline Epoxy Resin Structure and Curing Agents on the Glass Transition of Polymer Networks
Authors: Kisiel Maciej , Mossety-Leszczak Beata
Published: March 2024

Modern science and technology demand a low glass transition temperature, yet one tailored to specific thermoset needs and specific to individual hardener applications. Two novel, nonterminal liquid crystalline epoxy resins (LCER) were synthesised, with their structures characterized via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS), and elemental analysis. Their liquid crystalline nature and thermal properties were determined using polarized optical microscopy (POM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). A set of seven aromatic amines serving as curing agents was used to perform curing in fourteen different systems in order to assess the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the obtained polymer networks using DSC. The liquid crystalline elastomers were obtained with vitrification occurring in a low temperature range (−10–40 °C), with a more predictable outcome for amines with two aromatic rings in the structure than with one. Moreover, the resin with a core consisting of four aromatic rings produces networks with higher Tg than the three-aromatic resin. The use of nonterminal LCER allowed the lowering of the glass transition temperature of the polymers to more than 70 °C compared to a terminal analogue. This brings new possibilities of designing highly elastic yet cured polymers with potential for use in smart applications due to the LC nature of the resin.
In-Plane Elastic Properties of 3D-Printed Graded Hierarchical Hexagonal Honeycombs
Authors: Tao Yong , Zhao Ruochao , Shi Jun , Zhou De , Han Yanqun
Published: March 2024

In this study, the graded hierarchical hexagonal honeycomb (GHHH) integrating gradient design and hierarchical design was fabricated using the 3D-printing technique, and its in-plane elastic properties were investigated theoretically, experimentally, and numerically. Theoretical solutions were developed based on the Euler beam theory to predict the effective elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio of GHHH, and theoretical values were in good agreement with the experimental and numerical results. The effect of gradient design and hierarchical design on the in-plane elastic properties of GHHH was also analyzed and compared. Results showed that the hierarchical design has a more significant effect on Poisson’s ratio and adjusting the internal forces of GHHH compared with the gradient design. In addition, it was found that GHHH exhibited higher stiffness compared with regular hexagonal honeycomb (RHH), graded hexagonal honeycomb (GHH), and vertex-based hierarchical hexagonal honeycomb (VHHH) under the constraint of the same relative density, respectively. Specifically, the effective elastic modulus of GHHH can be enhanced by 119.82% compared to that of RHH. This research will help to reveal the effect of integrating hierarchical design and gradient design on the in-plane elastic properties of honeycombs.
Highly Efficient Hemostatic Cross-Linked Polyacrylate Polymer Dressings for Immediate Hemostasis
Authors: Ye Tong , Yang Zhiyuan , Hao Ruolin , Guo Jinnan , Dou Guifang , Meng Zhiyun , Liu Shuchen , Gu Ruolan , Wu Zhuona , Sun Yunbo , Han Peng , Jin Yiguang , Gan Hui
Published: March 2024

A traumatic hemorrhage is fatal due to the great loss of blood in a short period of time; however, there are a few biomaterials that can stop the bleeding quickly due to the limited water absorption speed. Here, a highly absorbent polymer (HPA), polyacrylate, was prepared as it has the best structure–effectiveness relationship. Within a very short period of time (2 min), HPA continually absorbed water until it swelled up to its 600 times its weight; more importantly, the porous structure comprised the swollen dressing. This instantaneous swelling immediately led to rapid hemostasis in irregular wounds. We optimized the HPA preparation process to obtain a rapidly water-absorbent polymer (i.e., HPA-5). HPA-5 showed favorable adhesion and biocompatibility in vitro. A rat femoral arteriovenous complete shear model and a tail arteriovenous injury model were established. HPA exhibited excellent hemostatic capability with little blood loss and short hemostatic time compared with CeloxTM in both of the models. The hemostatic mechanisms of HPA consist of fast clotting by aggregating blood cells, activating platelets, and accelerating the coagulation pathway via water absorption and electrostatic interaction. HPA is a promising highly water-absorbent hemostatic dressing for rapid and extensive blood clotting after vessel injury.
Dynamic Measurement of a Cancer Biomarker: Towards In Situ Application of a Fiber-Optic Ball Resonator Biosensor in CD44 Protein Detection
Authors: Myrkhiyeva Zhuldyz , Kantoreyeva Kanagat , Bekmurzayeva Aliya , Gomez Anthony W. , Ashikbayeva Zhannat , Tilegen Meruyert , Pham Tri T. , Tosi Daniele
Published: March 2024

The accuracy and efficacy of medical treatment would be greatly improved by the continuous and real-time monitoring of protein biomarkers. Identification of cancer biomarkers in patients with solid malignant tumors is receiving increasing attention. Existing techniques for detecting cancer proteins, such as the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, require a lot of work, are not multiplexed, and only allow for single-time point observations. In order to get one step closer to clinical usage, a dynamic platform for biosensing the cancer biomarker CD44 using a single-mode optical fiber-based ball resonator biosensor was designed, constructed and evaluated in this work. The main novelty of the work is an in-depth study of the capability of an in-house fabricated optical fiber biosensor for in situ detection of a cancer biomarker (CD44 protein) by conducting several types of experiments. The main results of the work are as follows: (1) Calibration of the fabricated fiber-optic ball resonator sensors in both static and dynamic conditions showed similar sensitivity to the refractive index change demonstrating its usefulness as a biosensing platform for dynamic measurements; (2) The fabricated sensors were shown to be insensitive to pressure changes further confirming their utility as an in situ sensor; (3) The sensor’s packaging and placement were optimized to create a better environment for the fabricated ball resonator’s performance in blood-mimicking environment; (4) Incubating increasing protein concentrations with antibody-functionalized sensor resulted in nearly instantaneous signal change indicating a femtomolar detection limit in a dynamic range from 7.1 aM to 16.7 nM; (5) The consistency of the obtained signal change was confirmed by repeatability studies; (6) Specificity experiments conducted under dynamic conditions demonstrated that the biosensors are highly selective to the targeted protein; (7) Surface morphology studies by AFM measurements further confirm the biosensor’s exceptional sensitivity by revealing a considerable shift in height but no change in surface roughness after detection. The biosensor’s ability to analyze clinically relevant proteins in real time with high sensitivity offers an advancement in the detection and monitoring of malignant tumors, hence improving patient diagnosis and health status surveillance.
An Autonomous Thermal Camera System for Monitoring Fumarole Activity
Authors: van der Werff Harald , Bonyo Eunice , Hecker Christoph
Published: March 2024

The Kenyan part of the East African Rift System hosts several geothermal fields for energy production. Changes in the extraction rate of geothermal fluids and the amount of water re-injected into the system affect reservoir pressure and production capacity over time. Understanding the balance of production, natural processes and the response of the geothermal system requires long-term monitoring. The presence of a geothermal system at depth is often accompanied by surface manifestations, such as hot water springs and fumaroles, which have the potential for monitoring subsurface activity. Two thermal camera timelapse systems were developed and installed as part of a multi-sensor observatory in Kenya to capture fumarole activity over time. These cameras are an aggregation of a camera unit, a control unit, and a battery charged by a solar panel, and they monitor fumarole activity on an hourly basis, with a deep sleep of the system in between recordings. The article describes the choice of hardware and software, presents the data that the cameras acquire, and discusses the system’s performance and possible improvement points.
Correction: Min, J.-Y.; Min, K.-B. Comparisons of Two Bioelectrical Impedance Devices and Manual versus Sensor-Based Short Physical Performance Batteries for Assessment of Muscle Mass and Physical Performance. Sensors 2023, 23, 6026
Authors: Min Jin-Young , Min Kyoung-Bok
Published: March 2024

There were five errors in the original article [...]
Edge-Triggered Three-Dimensional Object Detection Using a LiDAR Ring
Authors: Song Eunji , Jeong Seyoung , Hwang Sung-Ho
Published: March 2024

Autonomous driving recognition technology that can quickly and accurately recognize even small objects must be developed in high-speed situations. This study proposes an object point extraction method using rule-based LiDAR ring data and edge triggers to increase both speed and performance. The LiDAR’s ring information is interpreted as a digital pulse to remove the ground, and object points are extracted by detecting discontinuous edges of the z value aligned with the ring ID and azimuth. A bounding box was simply created using DBSCAN and PCA to check recognition performance from the extracted object points. Verification of the results of removing the ground and extracting points through Ring Edge was conducted using SemanticKITTI and Waymo Open Dataset, and it was confirmed that both F1 scores were superior to RANSAC. In addition, extracting bounding boxes of objects also showed higher PDR index performance when verified in open datasets, virtual driving environments, and actual driving environments.
Global Dynamic Path Planning of AGV Based on Fusion of Improved A* Algorithm and Dynamic Window Method
Authors: Wang Te , Li Aijuan , Guo Dongjin , Du Guangkai , He Weikai
Published: March 2024

Designed to meet the demands of AGV global optimal path planning and dynamic obstacle avoidance, this paper proposes a combination of an improved A* algorithm and dynamic window method fusion algorithm. Firstly, the heuristic function is dynamically weighted to reduce the search scope and improve the planning efficiency; secondly, a path-optimization method is introduced to eliminate redundant nodes and redundant turning points in the path; thirdly, combined with the improved A* algorithm and dynamic window method, the local dynamic obstacle avoidance in the global optimal path is realized. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by simulation experiments. According to the results of simulation analysis, the path-planning time of the improved A* algorithm is 26.3% shorter than the traditional A* algorithm, the search scope is 57.9% less, the path length is 7.2% shorter, the number of path nodes is 85.7% less, and the number of turning points is 71.4% less. The fusion algorithm can evade moving obstacles and unknown static obstacles in different map environments in real time along the global optimal path.
A Computer Vision-Based System to Help Health Professionals to Apply Tests for Fall Risk Assessment
Authors: Blasco-García Jesús Damián , García-López Gabriel , Jiménez-Muñoz Marta , López-Riquelme Juan Antonio , Feliu-Batlle Jorge Juan , Pavón-Pulido Nieves , Herrero María-Trinidad
Published: March 2024

The increase in life expectancy, and the consequent growth of the elderly population, represents a major challenge to guarantee adequate health and social care. The proposed system aims to provide a tool that automates the evaluation of gait and balance, essential to prevent falls in older people. Through an RGB-D camera, it is possible to capture and digitally represent certain parameters that describe how users carry out certain human motions and poses. Such individual motions and poses are actually related to items included in many well-known gait and balance evaluation tests. According to that information, therapists, who would not need to be present during the execution of the exercises, evaluate the results of such tests and could issue a diagnosis by storing and analyzing the sequences provided by the developed system. The system was validated in a laboratory scenario, and subsequently a trial was carried out in a nursing home with six residents. Results demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed system and the ease of objectively evaluating the main items of clinical tests by using the parameters calculated from information acquired with the RGB-D sensor. In addition, it lays the future foundations for creating a Cloud-based platform for remote fall risk assessment and its integration with a mobile assistant robot, and for designing Artificial Intelligence models that can detect patterns and identify pathologies for enabling therapists to prevent falls in users under risk.
Advancing Hyperspectral Image Analysis with CTNet: An Approach with the Fusion of Spatial and Spectral Features
Authors: Yadav Dhirendra Prasad , Kumar Deepak , Jalal Anand Singh , Sharma Bhisham , Webber Julian L. , Mehbodniya Abolfazl
Published: March 2024

Hyperspectral image classification remains challenging despite its potential due to the high dimensionality of the data and its limited spatial resolution. To address the limited data samples and less spatial resolution issues, this research paper presents a two-scale module-based CTNet (convolutional transformer network) for the enhancement of spatial and spectral features. In the first module, a virtual RGB image is created from the HSI dataset to improve the spatial features using a pre-trained ResNeXt model trained on natural images, whereas in the second module, PCA (principal component analysis) is applied to reduce the dimensions of the HSI data. After that, spectral features are improved using an EAVT (enhanced attention-based vision transformer). The EAVT contained a multiscale enhanced attention mechanism to capture the long-range correlation of the spectral features. Furthermore, a joint module with the fusion of spatial and spectral features is designed to generate an enhanced feature vector. Through comprehensive experiments, we demonstrate the performance and superiority of the proposed approach over state-of-the-art methods. We obtained AA (average accuracy) values of 97.87%, 97.46%, 98.25%, and 84.46% on the PU, PUC, SV, and Houston13 datasets, respectively.
Harmonizing the Development of Local Socioeconomic Scenarios: A Participatory Downscaling Approach Applied in Four European Case Studies
Authors: Vafeidis Athanasios Thomas , Reimann Lena , Ellen Gerald Jan , Goransson Gunnel , Koers Gerben , Van Well Lisa , Vollstedt Bente , Tsakiris Maureen , Oen Amy
Published: March 2024

Scenario analysis is a widely employed method for addressing uncertainties when assessing the physical and socio-economic impacts of climate change. Global scenarios have been extensively used in this context. However, these scenarios are in most cases not suitable for supporting local analyses. On the other hand, locally developed scenarios may lack the global context, thus having limited comparability with or transferability to other locations. The Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP), which have been primarily developed for climate impact research, provide the possibility to extend the existing global narratives and adapt them to local characteristics in order to develop locally relevant scenarios. Here, we propose a methodological framework for producing harmonized scenarios across different case studies. This framework was developed in the EVOKED project and combines elements of top-down and bottom-up approaches to develop local scenarios for four regions in northern Europe. We employ the SSP as boundary conditions and, in cooperation with stakeholders from these four regions, develop local scenarios for a range of SSP. The developed sets of scenarios are consistently informed by global developments and are therefore comparable with other downscaled scenarios developed in different regions. At the same time, they have been based on local participatory processes, thus being locally credible and relevant to the needs of stakeholders. The local scenarios constitute a climate service per se as they can raise stakeholder awareness of the processes that will drive risk, exposure, and adaptive capacity in the future and inform discussions on mitigation strategies and adaptation pathways.
Promoting the Diffusion of Sustainable Innovations through Customer Education—A Case of the Cosmetic Industry
Authors: Chen Hongyi , Seecharan Turuna , Feng Chen
Published: March 2024

This article investigates whether customer education about the sustainability advantage of a sustainable innovation helps promote the diffusion of such innovation using a survey and an experimental study in the cosmetic industry. Educating customers to equip them with awareness, know-how, and principal knowledge about sustainability promotes their motivation toward adoption and thus facilitates the diffusion of sustainable innovation. Specifically, results show that educating customers about cosmetic product ingredients, sustainability definition, and green certification increases the customers’ intention towards checking cosmetic products for ingredients, avoiding products that contain harmful ingredients, and purchasing a sustainable product in the next two years. Customers will also have more trust and intention to adopt certified sustainable products, and they will regard whether a product is truly sustainable as a factor more important than its price in their purchase decisions. Finally, a comprehensive list of factors that contribute to a customer’s perception and adoption of a sustainable product, as well as the ranking given by the study participants, are discussed.
Evaluating Performance Measurement Metrics for Lean and Agile Supply Chain Strategies in Large Enterprises
Authors: Dahinine Benameur , Laghouag Abderrazak , Bensahel Wassila , Alsolamy Majed , Guendouz Tarek
Published: March 2024

Previous research has identified metrics that are applicable to both lean and agile strategies and has hypothesised that financial and efficiency metrics are more relevant to the lean supply chain strategy, while customer service and flexibility metrics are more relevant to the agile supply chain strategy. These metrics need to be assessed empirically to confirm their relevance and validate these hypotheses. Drawing upon contingency theory, which mandates that supply chain performance metrics should vary based on the supply chain strategy, the research methodology resulted in developing a survey instrument that has been subsequently tested in 45 large enterprises and analysed by Partial Least Square-Path Modelling using XLSTAT software v.2020.4. The results support the existing beliefs and suggest that financial and efficiency indicator sets are more applicable to the lean supply chain strategy, whereas customer service and flexibility indicator sets are more pertinent to the agile supply chain strategy. This research distinguishes itself, through its novelty, in validating an adaptable framework for supply chain performance metrics, acknowledging the necessity of developing a suitable supply chain performance system. Ultimately, the findings of this research might serve as an initial foundation for practitioners in shaping the design of supply chain performance systems since the strong relationship between SC strategies and specific metrics may serve as a strategic approach to evaluate and improve performance.
Antecedents of Electricity-Saving Behavior in Mountain Road Tunnel-Construction Sites: A Multi-Level Modeling Analysis
Authors: Yan Guanfeng , Liu Binwen , Li Yanjie , Wang Mingnian , Yan Tao
Published: March 2024

The electricity-saving behavior of construction workers is helpful in reducing construction costs, protecting the ecological environment, and preventing global climate change. However, there is insufficient research on the electricity-saving behavioral mechanisms of tunnel-construction workers, and their behavior is influenced by their surrounding people including supervisors and co-workers because they are nested in various construction sites and isolated from other acquaintances. This study aims to develop a hierarchical linear model that explores the interrelationships between tunnel-construction workers’ electricity-saving behavior and four influencing factors theoretically and empirically. An organizational-level factor, electricity-saving climate, and three individual-level factors, including attitude, perceived behavioral control, and moral norms, are considered, and 1567 tunnel-construction workers from 41 construction sites mainly located in the southwest of China participated in this study. A six-step procedure for statistical analyses is adopted to test eight hypotheses using questionnaire survey data. The results supported all the hypotheses within the multi-level model and showed that the organizational-level factor played a leading role in predicting workers’ electricity-saving intentions with three individual-level factors positively associated with workers’ electricity-saving intentions. Further, the organizational electricity-saving climate also indirectly affects workers’ electricity-saving intentions through three mediators (individual-level factors), and electricity-saving intention is positively associated with electricity-saving behavior. Consequently, cultivating an electricity-saving climate within an organization is of great benefit to electricity conservation and environmental protection, and several recommendations are provided to improve the practical operability of results. The findings enable a better understanding of electricity-saving behavioral mechanisms and promote a low-carbon lifestyle among tunnel-construction workers.
Building the Framework for Sustainable Tourism in Príncipe Island
Authors: Silva Francisco , Roque Miguel
Published: March 2024

Like many other Small Island Developing States, São Tomé and Príncipe’s economy faces major weaknesses and constraints. These challenges are especially marked on the island of Príncipe, owing to its small size and double insularity. In recent decades, tourism, driven by international investment, has become a strategic sector for territorial development. This study assesses the suitability of this exogenous model and explores the feasibility of adopting a progressive change to a more community-centered tourism development model. Extensive fieldwork and multi-stakeholder collaboration have highlighted the need for a holistic, multi-dimensional strategy to secure this change. Such a strategy would prioritize local skills enhancement, infrastructure improvement, better governance and the diversification of tourism products and experiences. The gradual shift to a more endogenous approach in tourism development aims to strengthen sustainability across its multiple dimensions, ensuring more substantial and direct benefits for the local community and adding value to tourist services and experiences.
Micro(nano)plastics in Aquatic Environments: State of the Art and Beyond
Authors: Mojiri Amin , Zhou John L. , Lou Ziyang
Published: March 2024

The significance of water resources cannot be overstated, as they are vital for human survival and the economic and social development of societies [...]
Plastic Debris in the Stomach of the Invasive Signal Crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus from a Baltic Coastal River
Authors: Dobrzycka-Krahel Aldona , Skóra Michał E. , Pladzyk Agnieszka
Published: March 2024

The signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus is one of the most widespread non-indigenous crayfish in Europe and is of interest to aquaculture in many countries. Once they escape into the wild, they disperse and become a potential source of food exploited for consumption by local inhabitants. The ingestion of plastics by the invasive signal crayfish in the Wieprza River, a tributary to the Baltic Sea, was determined by the FTIR identification of plastic compounds found in stomachs. The occurrence of plastic debris in the stomachs of P. leniusculus is reported for the first time. Plastic particles with the size range between 70 and 450 µm were observed only among crayfish inhabiting the lower, urbanized part of the river (7.3% of specimens). The presence of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), cellophane, PP (polypropylene), PE (polyethylene), PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), and nylon was confirmed with the highest frequency of PTFE in the stomachs of crayfish. Fibres were the predominant type of microplastics in crayfish stomachs. The results indicated the size-selective uptake and ingestion of plastics depending on the traits of the species and environment.
Canine Leishmaniasis in Southern Brazil: Diagnosis and Clinical Features in Domestic Dogs
Authors: Fraga Aline Padilha de , da Silveira Vinicius Proença , Freitas Salla Patrícia de , Goulart Fernanda Gass de Oliveira , Streck André Felipe , Pereira Vagner Reinaldo Zingalli Bueno , de Mello Lauren Santos , Fonseca André Salvador Kazantzi , Ikuta Nilo , Lunge Vagner Ricardo
Published: March 2024

Leishmania infantum is a hemopathogen of importance for the health of domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), causing canine leishmaniasis (CanL), and it is also the etiological agent of human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL). This parasite was not reported in southern Brazil until the early 2000s, but CanL and HVL were increasingly reported in the last 15 years, mainly in cities bordering Argentina. The present study aimed to detect L. infantum in domestic dogs and to determine the main clinical manifestations in infected animals from Uruguaiana, a city with a high incidence of CanL. Fifty-one dogs suspected of having CanL in the urban perimeter of the city were clinically examined by veterinarians and investigated for the occurrence of L. infantum with two immunoassays (rapid chromatography test and ELISA) and real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction). Clinical signs were compared in positive and negative L. infantum animals. A total of 31 dogs (60.8%) were infected with L. infantum. The main clinical manifestations associated with CanL dogs were onychogryphosis and peeling (p < 0.05). L. infantum was frequently detected in urban dogs from Uruguaiana, highlighting the concerning situation regarding health in this city. The occurrence of some clinical signs (onychogryphosis/peeling) could help to detect CanL more frequently in the canine population.