bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Edge-Based Real-Time Occupancy Detection System through a Non-Intrusive Sensing System
Authors: Sayed Aya Nabil , Bensaali Faycal , Himeur Yassine , Houchati Mahdi
Published: March 2023

Building automation and the advancement of sustainability and safety in internal spaces benefit significantly from occupancy sensing. While particular traditional Machine Learning (ML) methods have succeeded at identifying occupancy patterns for specific datasets, achieving substantial performance in other datasets is still challenging. This paper proposes an occupancy detection method using non-intrusive ambient data and a Deep Learning (DL) model. An environmental sensing board was used to gather temperature, humidity, pressure, light level, motion, sound, and Carbon Dioxide (CO2) data. The detection approach was deployed on an edge device to enable low-cost computing while increasing data security. The system was set up at a university office, which functioned as the primary case study testing location. We analyzed two Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models to confirm the optimum alternative for edge deployment. A 2D-CNN technique was used for one day to identify occupancy in real-time. The model proved robust and reliable, with a 99.75% real-time prediction accuracy.
The Characteristics of Lithofacies and Depositional Model of Fine-Grained Sedimentary Rocks in the Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Chen Zhenhong , Li Xincheng , Chen Hao , Duan Zhennan , Qiu Zhen , Zhou Xiaoqian , Hou Yuguang
Published: March 2023

In order to clarify the characteristics of fine-grained sedimentary lithofacies and the depositional models in lacustrine environments of the Chang 7 Member of the Upper Triassic Yanchang Formation in the Ordos Basin, we focus on the lacustrine lithofacies classification and controlling factors. Based on the typical field sections of the southern Ordos Basin, combined with the methods of organic geochemical analysis, polarizing microscopic observation, XRD and elemental geochemistry, we summarize the main controlling factors of the lithofacies under different sedimentary environments and establish the sedimentary model under different sedimentary backgrounds. Results show that the Chang 7 Member of the Ordos Basin includes six major lithofacies types, i.e., quasi-laminated clayey shale facies, blocky silty mudstone facies, quasi-laminated silty shale facies, laminated silty shale facies, blocky mixed mudstone facies, and laminated argillaceous siltstone facies. Al2O3, MgO, CaO, Na2O, K2O, and SiO2 are relatively depleted, while TiO2, TFe2O3, and P2O5 are relatively enriched in the Chang 72+3. Meanwhile, the trace elements are relatively enriched in Cd, Cu, Mo, U, and V. The fine-grained sedimentary facies were influenced by various sedimentary environments, such as paleoclimate, redox conditions, productivity and terrigenous input. According to lithofacies types and genetic mechanisms of the Chang 7 Member in the study area, two types of lithofacies assemblages are identified. The rapid rise in lake level during the deposition of the Chang 72+3 resulted in an anoxic water column, high productivity, and low terrigenous input under a humid climate and weak-to-moderate weathering conditions. Therefore, clayey shale lithofacies assemblage is developed in the lower Chang 7 Member.
Wellbore and Reservoir Thermodynamic Appraisal in Acid Gas Injection for EOR Operations
Authors: Samnioti Anna , Kanakaki Eirini Maria , Koffa Evangelia , Dimitrellou Irene , Tomos Christos , Kiomourtzi Paschalia , Gaganis Vassilis , Stamataki Sofia
Published: March 2023

This study provides insights into the experience gained from investigating the thermodynamic behavior of well and reservoir fluids during acid gas injection (AGI) in a hydrocarbon field to enhance oil recovery (EOR) and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike conventional water and natural gas injection, AGI involves complicated phase changes and physical property variations of the acid gas and reservoir fluids at various pressure-temperature (P-T) conditions and compositions, and both constitute crucial parts of the EOR chain. A workflow is developed to deal with the reservoir fluid and acid gas thermodynamics, which is a key requirement for a successful design and operation. The workflow focuses firstly on the development of the thermodynamic models (EoS) to simulate the behavior of the reservoir fluids and of the injected acid gas and their integration in the field and in well dynamic models. Subsequently, the workflow proposes the thermodynamic simulation of the fluids’ interaction to determine the Minimum Miscibility Pressure (MMP), yielding the dynamic evolution of the fluids’ miscibility that may appear within the reservoir. Flow assurance in the acid gas transportation lines and in the wellbore is also considered by estimating the hydrate formation conditions.
Encouraging Trust in Demand-Side Management via Interaction Design: An Automation Level Based Trust Framework
Authors: Diamond Lisa , Mirnig Alexander , Fröhlich Peter
Published: March 2023

The energy transition requires increased end-user flexibility in consumption as a response to the more volatile production patterns of renewable resources. Automated demand-side management solutions can provide support in achieving this but struggle with trust and acceptance issues from end-users. This paper contributes insights into how communicating trustworthiness can be achieved through careful and context-aware interaction design in such systems. Core interface features such as feedback, automation transparency, control options, benefit information, and actionable information were identified and fifteen case studies from six countries were analysed with regard to provided interaction features, automation level, and end-user experiences. The results provide insights into the form and frequency of these features used at different automation levels and their varying role in trust and acceptance building. Based on our results, we recommend particular attention to providing actionable information and actively reaching out to users at a low automation level, to provision and communication of control at a medium automation level, and to providing transparency at a high automation level in order to promote trust successfully, while benefit information is central for a “social license to automate” independently of the automation level.
Impact Analysis and Energy Quality of Photovoltaic, Electric Vehicle and BESS Lead-Carbon Recharge Station in Brazil
Authors: Filho Antonio Venancio M. L. , Vasconcelos Andrea S. M. , Junior Washington de A. S. , Dantas Nicolau K. L. , Arcanjo Ayrlw Maynyson C. , Souza Amanda C. M. , Fernandes Amanda L. , Zhang Kaihang , Wu Kunlin , Castro José F. C. , de Medeiros Luiz H. A. , Maciel Alexandre M. A.
Published: March 2023

The search for charging electric vehicles using renewable energy sources and ensuring the stability of the electrical system has been growing. This has led to the development of charging stations that integrate photovoltaic systems, energy storage systems in batteries, and charging stations. The storage system allows for applications that increase the reliability of the electrical network. The objective of this work is to study, based on real operational scenarios, the impacts, and criteria of energy quality of a charging solution containing a photovoltaic system, a storage system, and a charging station. In the solution, the batteries are lead-carbon type and photovoltaics have priority in energy supply, using excess generation to charge the batteries. In this aspect, the work presents relevant contributions to the study of energy quality. An improvement in energy quality is pointed out with the use of batteries, proving that even in the most diverse operating situations, such as partial shading of the photovoltaic modules, with 20% shading relative to the nominal power, charging is not impacted and reductions in distortions are achieved, with a 50% reduction in voltage imbalance, when the storage system is a voltage reference and reference to the microgrid.
Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Molecular Responses in Two Contrasting Hazelnut Varieties against Botrytis cinerea Infection
Authors: Sun Jun , Zhang Yue , Zheng Zeyang , Hao Jiachen , Chen Lijing
Published: March 2023

Botrytis cinerea, a pathogenic fungus that causes necrosis in plants, is one of the most destructive pathogens of hazelnuts. This fungus is responsible for causing Husk Brown Rot, a significant threat to hazelnut production. The plant’s defense mechanism against this pathogen, as well as other pathogens, is a complex biological process that involves changes at molecular, biochemical, and physiological levels. To better understand the molecular responses of hazelnut plants to B. cinerea infection, we conducted a comparative transcriptome profiling study between a B. cinerea-resistant Ping’ou hybrid hazelnut variety (Dawei; DW) and a susceptible variety (Qiuxiang; QX). Our study focused on the transcriptome profiles of DW and QX plants after three days of B. cinerea infection. The results of our study showed moderate changes in the defense strategies of both DW and QX plants in response to B. cinerea infection. Specifically, we observed that the expression of 14 disease-resistant genes was significantly different between DW and QX. Our comparative analysis revealed that DW had a higher number and expression of immunity-related differentially expressed genes compared to QX, which indicates that these genes play a crucial role in inducing innate resistance in DW plants against B. cinerea infection. This study highlights that plant resistance to pathogens like B. cinerea is a complex process that is controlled by multiple genes and biological pathways, each playing a specific role. Our findings provide new insights into the development of hazelnut varieties that are resistant to B. cinerea infection. By using the candidate genes identified in this study, it may be possible to enhance the resistance of hazelnut plants to B. cinerea and reduce the impact of Husk Brown Rot on hazelnut production.
Individuals’ Behaviors of Cone Production in Longleaf Pine Trees
Authors: Chen Xiongwen , Willis John L.
Published: March 2023

The sporadic cone production of longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) challenges the restoration of the longleaf pine ecosystem. While much has been learned about longleaf pine cone production at the stand level, little information exists at the tree level regarding cone production and energy allocational strategy. This study aims to analyze cone production and diameter growth of approximately ten sampled longleaf pine trees at seven sites across the southeastern USA over the past twenty years. The results indicate that three-year cycles dominated the cone production dynamics, but longer cycles (four years and more) also occurred. The dynamics of entropy in cone production varied among trees. Taylor’s law, which describes the correlation between average and variance, existed in cone production for the majority of trees. Lagged cone production at one and two years was not autocorrelated among trees across sites. No significant relationships existed between tree diameter (or basal area) growth and cone production among trees across sites. This study provides new information on cone production at the individual tree level and narrows down the possible mechanisms. The results will be helpful in developing strategies for the management and modeling of longleaf pine cone production.
Effects of High Temperature & Pressure Pretreatment Process on Methane Production from Cyanobacteria
Authors: Şahan Murat , Fardinpoor Mona , Yılmaz Vedat , Yılmaz Fatih , Perendeci N. Altınay
Published: March 2023

In this study, Desertifilum tharense cyanobacteria, which has energy generation potential, was firstly isolated from the water sources from Denizli/Turkey, the culture-specific parameters were identified, characterization analyses were performed, and the production in photoreactors under laboratory conditions was performed. D. tharense cyanobacterium was subjected to a high temperature–pressure pretreatment process (HTPP) to increase methane production efficiency, and the pretreatment process was optimized for methane production. D. tharense had a total carbon (C) content of 50.2% and total organic carbon content (TOC) of 48.9%. The biochemical methane potential (BMP) of the raw D. tharense sample was measured as 261.8 mL methane (CH4) per gram of volatile solids (VS). In order to investigate the effects of HTPP and to determine the optimum process conditions, Central Composite Design (CCD) approach-based Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used. BMP values of the samples treated with HTTP were measured in the range of 201.5–235 mLCH4 gVS−1 and lower than the raw sample. These results revealed that the HTPP is not suitable for the production of biofuel methane from D. tharense. The optimization of the HTPP was carried out by Design Expert software. For maximum BMP production, the software proposed a reaction temperature of 200 °C and a reaction time of 20 min as optimum conditions. With the proposed model, it was estimated that 227.1 mLCH4 g VS−1 methane could be produced under these conditions, and 211.4 mLCH4 g VS−1 methane was produced in the validation experiment. It was determined that D. tharense cyanobacterium could be used as a suitable biomass source for methane production. However, it was not necessary to use the HTTP as a pretreatment process prior to the methane production.
Enzymatic Hydrolysis Strategies for Cellulosic Sugars Production to Obtain Bioethanol from Eucalyptus globulus Bark
Authors: Amândio Mariana S. T. , Rocha Jorge M. S. , Xavier Ana M. R. B.
Published: March 2023

Cellulosic sugars production for the valorization of lignocellulosic biomass residues in an industrial site has economic benefits and is promising if integrated into a biorefinery. Enzymatic hydrolysis (EH) of pretreated Eucalyptus globulus bark, an industrial residue of low-economic value widely available in Portuguese pulp and paper mills, could be an excellent approach to attain resource circularity and pulp mill profitability. This work evaluated the potential for improving cellulosic sugars concentrations by operating with high solids loading and introducing the additives Triton X-100, PEG 4000 and Tween 80 using a commercial enzymatic consortium with a dosage of 25 FPU gcarbohydrates−1. Additives did not improve enzymatic hydrolysis performance, but the effect of increasing solids loading to 14% (w/v) in batch operation was accomplished. The fed-batch operation strategy was investigated and, when starting with 11% (w/v) solids loading, allowed the feeding of 3% (w/v) fresh feedstock sequentially at 2, 4 and 6 h, attaining 20% (w/v) total solids loading. After 24 h of operation, the concentration of cellulosic sugars reached 161 g L−1, corresponding to an EH conversion efficiency of 76%. Finally, the fermentability of the fed-batch hydrolysate using the Ethanol Red® strain was evaluated in a 5 L bioreactor scale. The present results demonstrate that Eucalyptus globulus bark, previously pretreated by kraft pulping, is a promising feedstock for cellulosic sugars production, allowing it to become the raw material for feeding a wide range of bioprocesses.
Mesoporous Activated Biochar from Crab Shell with Enhanced Adsorption Performance for Tetracycline
Authors: Sun Jiaxing , Ji Lili , Han Xiao , Wu Zhaodi , Cai Lu , Guo Jian , Wang Yaning
Published: March 2023

In this study, three mesoporous-activated crab shell biochars were prepared by carbonation and chemical activation with KOH (K−CSB), H3PO4 (P−CSB), and KMnO4 (M−CSB) to evaluate their tetracycline (TC) adsorption capacities. Characterization by SEM and a porosity analysis revealed that the K−CSB, P−CSB, and M−CSB possessed a puffy, mesoporous structure, with K−CSB exhibiting a larger specific surface area (1738 m2/g). FT-IR analysis revealed that abundant, surface ox-containing functional groups possessed by K−CSB, P−CSB, and M−CSB, such as −OH, C−O, and C=O, enhanced adsorption for TC, thereby enhancing their adsorption efficiency for TC. The maximum TC adsorption capacities of the K−CSB, P−CSB, and M−CSB were 380.92, 331.53, and 281.38 mg/g, respectively. The adsorption isotherms and kinetics data of the three TC adsorbents fit the Langmuir and pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption mechanism involved aperture filling, hydrogen bonding, electrostatic action, π-π EDA action, and complexation. As a low-cost and highly effective adsorbent for antibiotic wastewater treatment, activated crab shell biochar has enormous application potential.
CSGNN: Contamination Warning and Control of Food Quality via Contrastive Self-Supervised Learning-Based Graph Neural Network
Authors: Yan Junyi , Li Hongyi , Zuo Enguang , Li Tianle , Chen Chen , Chen Cheng , Lv Xiaoyi
Published: March 2023

Effective contamination warning and control of food quality can significantly reduce the likelihood of food quality safety incidents. Existing food contamination warning models for food quality rely on supervised learning, do not model the complex feature associations between detection samples, and do not consider the unevenness of detection data categories. In this paper, To overcome these limitations, we propose a Contrastive Self-supervised learning-based Graph Neural Network framework (CSGNN) for contamination warning of food quality. Specifically, we structure the graph for detecting correlations between samples and then define the positive and negative instance pairs for contrastive learning based on attribute networks. Further, we use a self-supervised approach to capture the complex relationships between detection samples. Finally, we assessed each sample’s contamination level based on the absolute value of the subtraction of the prediction scores from multiple rounds of positive and negative instances obtained by the CSGNN. Moreover, we conducted a sample study on a batch of dairy product detection data in a Chinese province. The experimental results show that CSGNN outperforms other baseline models in contamination assessment of food quality, with AUC and recall of unqualified samples reaching 0.9188 and 1.0000, respectively. Meanwhile, our framework provides interpretable contamination classification for food detection. This study provides an efficient early warning method with precise and hierarchical contamination classification for contamination warning of food quality work.
Comparative Characterization of Volatile Compounds of Ningxiang Pig, Duroc and Their Crosses (Duroc × Ningxiang) by Using SPME-GC-MS
Authors: Zhu Bangqiang , Gao Hu , Yang Fang , Li Yiyang , Yang Qiaoyue , Liao Yinchang , Guo Haimin , Xu Kang , Tang Zhiqiang , Gao Ning , Zhang Yuebo , He Jun
Published: March 2023

With the aim to study the flavor characteristics of Ningxiang pigs (NX), Duroc (DC) pigs, and their crosses (Duroc × Ningxiang, DN), electronic nose and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis were used to detect the volatile flavor substances in NX, DC, and DN (n = 34 pigs per population). A total of 120 volatile substances were detected in the three populations, of which 18 substances were common. Aldehydes were the main volatile substances in the three populations. Further analysis revealed that tetradecanal, 2-undecenal, and nonanal were the main aldehyde substances in the three kinds of pork, and the relative content of benzaldehyde in the three populations had significant differences. The flavor substances of DN were similar to that of NX and showed certain heterosis in flavor substances. These results provide a theoretical basis for the study of flavor substances of China local pig breeds and new ideas for pig breeding.
Fractional-Order Negative Position Feedback for Vibration Attenuation
Authors: Kaczmarek Marcin B. , HosseinNia Hassan
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a fractional-order extension of a negative position feedback (NPF) controller for active damping is proposed. The design of the controller is motivated by the frequency-domain loop shaping analysis, and the controller dynamics are defined to maintain the high-pass characteristics of an integer-order NPF. The proposed controller provides greater attenuation of a resonance peak of a flexible plant than the integer order equivalent with the same high-frequency gain. The stability and influence of tuning parameters on the behaviour of the proposed controller are analysed. The efficiency and feasibility of the fractional-order controller are demonstrated by implementing it on an experimental setup.
From Stochastic to Rough Volatility: A New Deep Learning Perspective on Hedging
Authors: Zhu Qinwen , Diao Xundi
Published: March 2023

The Black–Scholes model assumes that volatility is constant, and the Heston model assumes that volatility is stochastic, while the rough Bergomi (rBergomi) model, which allows rough volatility, can perform better with high-frequency data. However, classical calibration and hedging techniques are difficult to apply under the rBergomi model due to the high cost caused by its non-Markovianity. This paper proposes a gated recurrent unit neural network (GRU-NN) architecture for hedging with different-regularity volatility. One advantage is that the gating network signals embedded in our architecture can control how the present input and previous memory update the current activation. These gates are updated adaptively in the learning process and thus outperform conventional deep learning techniques in a non-Markovian environment. Our numerical results also prove that the rBergomi model outperforms the other two models in hedging.
Integration Analysis of circRNA–miRNA–mRNA and Identification of Critical Networks in Valgus-Varus Deformity (Gallus gallus)
Authors: Li Jianzeng , Ma Yanchao , Cai Chunxia , Zhang Lujie , Liu Xinxin , Jiang Ruirui , Li Donghua , Li Zhuanjian , Kang Xiangtao , Tian Yadong , Han Ruili
Published: March 2023

Valgus-valgus deformity (VVD) is a common leg deformity in broilers with inward or outward deviation of the tibiotarsus and tarsometatarsus. The competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network plays an essential role in the study of leg disease. However, its role in the etiology and pathogenesis of VVD remains unclear. Here, based on case (VVD) and control (normal) group design, we performed analyses of differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcircRNAs), differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) and differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs). Transcriptome data derived 86 DEcircRNAs, 13 DEmiRNAs and 410 DEmRNAs. Functional analysis showed that DEmRNAs were significantly enriched in cell cycle, apoptosis, ECM-receptor interaction, FoxO signaling pathway and protein processing synthesis. DEcirc/miRNA-associated DEmRNAs were associated with skeletal and muscle growth and development pathways, including mTOR, Wnt, and VEGF signaling pathways. Subsequently, a circRNA–miRNA–mRNA regulatory network was constructed based on the ceRNA hypothesis, including 8 circRNAs, 6 miRNAs, and 31 mRNAs, which were significantly enriched in the skeletal developmental pathway. Finally, two key mRNAs (CDC20 and CTNNB1) and their regulatory axes were screened by the PPI network and cytohubba. The expression levels of CDC20 and CTNNB1 in cartilage and seven other tissues were also quantified by qPCR. In conclusion, we analyzed the functions of DEmRNA, DEcircRNA and DEmiRNA and constructed the hub ceRNA regulatory axis, and obtained two hub genes, CDC20 and CTNNB1. The study more deeply explored the etiology and pathogenesis of VVD and lays the foundation for further study of the role of the ceRNA network on skeletal development.
Remote and Unsupervised Exercise Strategies for Improving the Physical Activity of Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pelosi Andrea Corazzi , Rostirola Gabriela Cerávolo , Pereira Juliana Silva , Silva Karen Christine , Fontanari Maria Eduarda Ramos , Oliveira Manoela Stahl Parisotto , Reis Ivan Gustavo Masselli dos , Messias Leonardo Henrique Dalcheco
Published: March 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) burden across the world is expected to increase by ~2.2 million new cases and ~1.1 million deaths by 2030. Regular physical exercise is recommended to prevent CRC, but the myriad of protocols preclude further discussion on how to manage its variables for this population. Home-based exercise guided by remote monitoring provides an alternative to surpass the barriers of supervised exercise. However, no meta-analysis was conducted to verify the effectiveness of this intervention for improving physical activity (PA). We performed a systematic review of remote and unsupervised strategies imposed on CRC patients for improving PA and compared, via a meta-analysis, their effectiveness against CRC patients submitted to usual care or no intervention. The databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched on 20 September 2022. Eleven studies attained the criteria for eligibility in the qualitative approach, and seven were included in the meta-analysis. No significant effect (p = 0.06) of remote and unsupervised exercise intervention was observed. However, a sensitivity analysis including three studies that only considered CRC patients was performed, demonstrating a significant effect in favor of exercise (p = 0.008). Based on our sensitivity analysis, remote and unsupervised exercise strategies were effective to improve the PA of CRC patients.
Polyphenolic Compounds and Biological Activities of Leaves and Fruits of Syzygium samarangense cv. ‘Giant Green’ at Three Different Maturities
Authors: Idris Nuruljannah Suhaida , Khandaker Mohammad Moneruzzaman , Rashid Zalilawati Mat , Majrashi Ali , Alenazi Mekhled Mutiran , Nor Zanariah Mohd , Mohd Adnan Ahmad Faris , Mat Nashriyah
Published: March 2023

Syzygium samarangense cv. ‘Giant Green’ is an underutilised fruit that can be found in Malaysia and other Asian countries. Since this fruit is not fully commercialised, the information about its potential health benefits is limited. Thus, this study was carried out to determine the polyphenolic contents (total phenolic and total flavonoid) and biological activities (antioxidant, alpha-glucosidase and antibacterial assay) of ‘Giant Green’ leaves and fruits at different maturity stages. The young, mature and old leaves, and unripe, half-ripened and ripened fruits were analysed. The results showed that the young leaves increased the TPC and TFC by 35% and 41%, over the old leaves. Similarly, TPC and TFC contents were 37% and 54% higher in unripe fruits compared to the ripened fruits. In addition, young leaves exhibited the strongest scavenging activity towards DPPH, NO and ABTS radicals with IC50 values increasing 1.6-fold, 1.7-fold and 2.3-fold, respectively, over the old leaves. However, in fruit samples, only unripe fruits were able to inhibit more than 50% of radicals. A comparable trend was observed in alpha-glucosidase inhibitory assay whereas young leaves and unripe fruits recorded 81% and 99% increases in IC50 values, respectively, from young leaves to old leaves and unripe fruits to ripened fruits. Identically, young leaves also showed a significant effect in antibacterial assay with an inhibition zone increase of 19%, 36%, 32%, and 31% in S. aureus, E. faecalis, S. typhimurium and E. coli, respectively, over the old leaves. However, only unripe fruits were most effective against all tested bacteria while half-ripened fruits were only effective against E. faecalis with a 1.1-fold increase in the inhibition zone compared to unripe fruits. Ripened fruits were resistant to all of the bacteria. These results suggest that the young leaves and unripe fruits of ‘Giant Green’ cultivar of S. samarangense could be a potential candidate for the management of some diseases coming from harmful free radicals or bacterial infection.
Thidiazuron Promoted Microspore Embryogenesis and Plant Regeneration in Curly Kale (Brassica oleracea L. convar. acephala var. sabellica)
Authors: Zou Jiaqi , Zou Xiao , Gong Zhichao , Song Gengxing , Ren Jie , Feng Hui
Published: March 2023

Curly kale (Brassica oleracea L. convar. acephala var. sabellica), the most common type of edible kale, characterized by providing rich nutrition and health care functions, is sought after and has been listed as top of the healthiest vegetables in recent trends, and has aroused the interest of breeders in cultivating new varieties. However, it usually takes more than six years to obtain a homozygous kale inbred line for commercial seed production through conventional breeding procedures due to its long growth and development period. The isolated microspore culture (IMC) technique could be a time-saving alternative method for producing doubled haploid (DH) lines that are genetically homozygous. In this study, we successfully utilize the efficient cytokinin thidiazuron (TDZ) to promote microspore embryogenesis and plant regeneration in two curly kale cultivars (‘Winterbor F2’ and ‘Starbor F2’). Compared with the control (0 mg/L TDZ), all tested TDZ concentrations (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 mg/L) had no adverse effects on embryogenesis, and 0.2 mg/L TDZ had an optimal effect on embryo survival and plant regeneration of the two genotypes. For ‘Starbor F2’, 0.2 mg/L TDZ treatment achieved the highest embryogenesis rate (1.83-fold higher than the control group) and direct seeding rate (1.61-fold increase), and the lowest mortality rate. Likewise, 0.2 mg/L TDZ increased the embryogenesis rate of ‘Winterbor F2’ by 1.62 times, the direct seeding rate by 1.61 times, and the mortality rate fell to the lowest. A 1/2 Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with 0.2 mg/L 1-Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) can significantly promote the rooting of the regenerated seedlings. These results provide new insights into the practical application of the IMC technique in shortening the breeding cycle of kale.
Cultural Heritage in the Light of Flood Hazard: The Case of the “Ancient” Olympia, Greece
Authors: Kalogeropoulos Kleomenis , Tsanakas Konstantinos , Stathopoulos Nikolaos , Tsesmelis Demetrios E. , Tsatsaris Andreas
Published: March 2023

Floods are natural hazards with negative environmental and socioeconomic impacts at a local and regional level. In addition to human lives, facilities, and infrastructure, flooding is a potential threat to archaeological sites, with all the implications for the cultural heritage of each country. Technological developments of recent years, particularly concerning geospatial technologies (GIS, Remote Sensing, etc.), have brought novel advantages to hydrological modelling. This study uses geoinformatics to quantify flood hazard assessment. The study area is the ungauged torrent of Kladeos River, located in Peloponnese, Greece. Geomorphological analysis combined with hydrological modelling were performed in a GIS-based environment in order to study the hydrological behavior of the Kladeos River basin. The hydrological analysis was carried out with rainfall data and hypothetical storms using a 5 × 5 m digital terrain model. The quantitative features of the catchment were calculated in order to determine its susceptibility to flooding. The hydro-morphometric analysis revealed stream order anomalies in the drainage network which, combined with the morphology of its upper and lower parts, enhance the possibility of flood events. The primary results indicated that there is an increased possibility of extensive flooding in the archaeological site, depending on the severity of the rainfall, since the basic geomorphological characteristics favor it. The proposed methodology calculates parameters such as flow rate, flow velocity, etc., in order to measure and quantify flood hazard and risks in the area of interest.
Assessing the Effect of Spatial Variation in Soils on Sediment Loads in Yazoo River Watershed
Authors: Venishetty Vivek , Parajuli Prem B. , To Filip
Published: March 2023

Sediment deposition in river channels from various topographic conditions has been one of the major contributors to water quality impairment through non-point sources. Soil is one of the key components in sediment loadings, during runoff. Yazoo River Watershed (YRW) is the largest watershed in Mississippi. Topography in the watershed has been classified into two types based on land-use and slope conditions: Delta region with a slope ranging from 0% to 3% and Bluff hills with a slope exceeding 10%. YRW spans over 50,000 km2; the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used to estimate soil-specific sediment loss in the watershed. Soil predominance was based on spatial coverage; a total of 14 soil types were identified, and the sediment contributed by those soils was quantified. The SWAT model was calibrated and validated for streamflow, sediment, Total Nitrogen (TN), Total Phosphorus (TP), and Crop yield for soybeans. Model performance was evaluated using the Coefficient of determination (R2), Nash and Sutcliffe Efficiency index (NSE), and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). The performance was good for streamflow, ranging between 0.34 and 0.83, and 0.33 and 0.81, for both R2 and NSE, respectively. Model performance for sediment and nutrient was low-satisfactory as R2 and NSE ranged between 0.14 and 0.40, and 0.14 and 0.35, respectively. In the case of crop yield, model performance was satisfactory during calibration and good for validation with an R2 of 0.56 and 0.76 and with a MAPE of 11.21% and 10.79%, respectively. Throughout YRW, soil type Smithdale predicted the highest sediment loads with 115.45 tons/ha/year. Sediment loss in agricultural fields with a soybean crop was also analyzed, where soil type Alligator predicted the highest with 8.37 tons/ha/year. Results from this study demonstrate a novel addition to the scientific community in understanding sediment loads based on soil types, which can help stakeholders in decision-making toward soil conservation and improving the environment.
Can Adipose Tissue Influence the Evaluation of Thermographic Images in Adolescents?
Authors: Reis Hamilton H. T. , Brito Ciro J. , Sillero-Quintana Manuel , Silva Alisson G. , Fernández-Cuevas Ismael , Cerqueira Matheus S. , Werneck Francisco Z. , Marins João C. B.
Published: March 2023

Infrared thermography (IRT) is a technology easy to use for clinical purposes as a pre-diagnostic tool for many health conditions. However, the analysis process of a thermographic image needs to be meticulous to make an appropriate decision. The adipose tissue is considered a potential influence factor in the skin temperature (Tsk) values obtained by IRT. This study aimed to verify the influence of body fat percentage (%BF) on Tsk measured by IRT in male adolescents. A total of 100 adolescents (16.79 ± 0.97 years old and body mass index of 18.41 ± 2.32 kg/m²) was divided into two groups through the results of a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry analysis: obese (n = 50, %BF 30.21 ± 3.79) and non-obese (n = 50, %BF 11.33 ± 3.08). Thermograms were obtained by a FLIR T420 infrared camera and analyzed by ThermoHuman® software version 2.12, subdividing the body into seven regions of interest (ROI). The results showed that obese adolescents presented lower mean Tsk values than the non-obese for all ROIs (p < 0.05), with emphasis on the global Tsk (0.91 °C) and anterior (1.28 °C) and posterior trunk (1.18 °C), with “very large” effect size values. A negative correlation was observed in all the ROI (p < 0.01), mainly in the anterior (r = −0.71, p < 0.001) and posterior trunk (r = −0.65, p < 0.001). Tables of thermal normality were proposed for different ROIs according to the classification of obesity. In conclusion, the %BF affects the registered Tsk values in male Brazilian adolescents assessed by IRT.
Test–Retest Reliability and Internal Consistency of a Newly Developed Questionnaire to Assess Explanatory Variables of 24-h Movement Behaviors in Adults
Authors: Willems Iris , Verbestel Vera , Calders Patrick , Lapauw Bruno , De Craemer Marieke
Published: March 2023

A questionnaire on explanatory variables for each behavior of the 24-h movement behaviors (i.e., physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep) was developed based on three levels of the socio-ecological model, i.e., the intrapersonal level, interpersonal level and the physical environmental level. Within these levels, different constructs were questioned, i.e., autonomous motivation, attitude, facilitators, internal behavioral control, self-efficacy, barriers, subjective norm, social modeling, social support, home environment, neighborhood, and work environment. The questionnaire was tested for test–retest reliability (i.e., intraclass correlation (ICC)) for each item and internal consistency for each construct (i.e., Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient) among a group of 35 healthy adults with a mean age of 42.9 (±16.1) years. The total questionnaire contained 266 items, consisting of 14 items on general information, 70 items on physical activity, 102 items on sedentary behavior, 45 items on sleep and 35 items on the physical environment. Seventy-one percent of the explanatory items showed moderate to excellent reliability (ICC between 0.50 and 0.90) and a majority of constructs had a good homogeneity among items (Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient ≥ 0.70). This newly developed and comprehensive questionnaire might be used as a tool to understand adults’ 24-h movement behaviors.
Improvement Pathways for Urban Land Use Efficiency in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Urban Agglomeration at the County Level: A Context-Dependent DEA Based on the Closest Target
Authors: Tian Ye , Li Jiangfeng
Published: March 2023

One of the most effective ways to achieve sustainable land use and the regional coordinated development of urban agglomerations lies in improving the urban land use efficiency (ULUE) of both large, medium, and small cities and small towns. However, in previous studies, less attention has been paid to pathways for potential improvement, especially at the county level. The main purpose of this paper is to examine potential improvement paths for the ULUE at the county level in urban agglomerations, while attempting to provide more practical targets for improvement and formulate more reasonable improvement steps for inefficient counties. Therefore, a total of 197 counties in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei urban agglomeration (BTHUA) in 2018 were taken as examples to build a context-dependent data envelopment analysis (DEA) model based on the closest target. In addition, by utilizing methods such as the significant difference test and system clustering analysis, the shortest path and steps to achieve efficiency were identified for inefficient counties, and the characteristics of improvement paths at different levels were summarized. Furthermore, improvement pathways were compared for two dimensions: administrative type and region. The results showed that the causes of polarization for ULUE at different levels were mainly reflected in more complex targets to be improved in the middle- and low-level counties than at high levels. Improving environmental and social benefits was essential to achieving efficiency in most inefficient counties, especially at the middle and low levels. The improvement paths for inefficient counties between different administrative types, as well as the prefecture-level cities, were heterogeneous. The results of this study can provide a policy and planning basis for improving urban land use. This study is of practical significance in accelerating the development of urbanization and the promotion of regional coordination and sustainable development.
A Multifaceted Approach to the “Bare below the Elbow” Concept and Hand Hygiene Compliance among Healthcare Professionals—Multicenter Population-Based Study
Authors: Szumska Emilia , Czajkowski Przemyslaw , Zablocki Michal , Rozkiewicz Dorota
Published: March 2023

Nosocomial infections remain an important issue for patient safety concerns. Since hospital infections are mainly connected with healthcare professionals’ routines, an increase in hand hygiene effectiveness through compliance with the “bare below the elbow” (BBE) concept could reduce the number of nosocomial infections. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate hand hygiene and to investigate healthcare professionals’ compliance with the BBE concept. We performed our study on a group of 7544 hospital professionals involved in patient care. During the national preventive action, questionnaires, demographic data, and hand hygiene preparations were recorded. Hand disinfection was verified by COUCOU BOX, containing a UV camera. We noted that 3932 (52.1%) persons complied with the BBE rules. Nurses and non-medical personnel were significantly more often classified as BBE rather than non-BBE (2025; 53.3% vs. 1776; 46.7%, respectively, p = 0.001 and 1220; 53.7% vs. 1057; 46.3%, p = 0.006). Different proportions were demonstrated for the groups of physicians—non-BBE (783; 53.3%) compared to BBE (687; 46.7%) (p = 0.041). Healthcare workers from the BBE group statistically more often disinfected their hands correctly (2875/3932; 73.1%) compared to the non-BBE group (2004/3612; 55.5%) (p < 0.0001). This study demonstrates the positive impact of compliance with the BBE concept on effective hand disinfection and patient safety. Therefore, education and infection-prevention actions should be popularized to improve the BBE policy’s effectiveness as well.
Effect of Technology Acceptance on Blended Learning Satisfaction: The Serial Mediation of Emotional Experience, Social Belonging, and Higher-Order Thinking
Authors: Chen Tianjiao , Luo Heng , Feng Qinna , Li Gege
Published: March 2023

This study explored the relationship between technology acceptance and learning satisfaction in the context of blended learning, with a particular focus on the mediating effects of online behaviors, emotional experience, social belonging, and higher-order thinking. A total of 110 Chinese university students participated in this study and completed a questionnaire at the end of 11 weeks of blended learning. The results demonstrate that technology acceptance directly and indirectly relates to blended learning satisfaction. The mediation analysis further revealed two significant mediating pathways from technology acceptance to blended learning satisfaction: one through higher-order thinking, and the other through serial mediation of emotional experience, social belonging, and higher-order thinking. Moreover, there was no significant mediating effect of online learning behaviors on blended learning satisfaction. Based on these results, we have proposed practical implications for improving blended learning practice to promote learner satisfaction. These results contribute to our understanding of blended learning as an integrated construct under the triadic interplay of technical environment, learning behaviors, and individual perceptions.
Cognitive Function and Depressive Symptoms among Chinese Adults Aged 40 Years and Above: The Mediating Roles of IADL Disability and Life Satisfaction
Authors: Liu Yixuan , Yang Xinyan , Xu Yanling , Wu Yinghui , Zhong Yiwei , Yang Shujuan
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between cognitive function and depressive symptoms among Chinese adults aged 40 years and above, as well as the series of multiple mediating effects of Instrument Activities of Daily Living disability and life satisfaction on this relationship. The data was obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS, 2013–2018), including 6466 adults aged 40 years and above. The mean age of the adults was 57.7 ± 8.5. The SPSS PROCESS macro program was conducted to examine the mediating effects. The results indicated that there was a significant association between cognitive function and depressive symptoms five years later (B = −0.1500, 95%CI: −0.1839, −0.1161), which could also be demonstrated through three mediation pathways: (1) the mediating pathway through IADL disability (B = −0.0247, 95%CI: −0.0332, −0.0171); (2) the mediating pathway through life satisfaction (B = 0.0046, 95%CI: 0.0000, 0.0094); and (3) the chain mediation pathway through IADL disability and life satisfaction (B = −0.0012, 95%CI: −0.0020, −0.0003). Both IADL disability and life satisfaction have been proven to be crucial mediators for the relationship between cognitive function and depressive symptoms five years later. It is necessary to improve individuals’ cognitive function and reduce the negative impact of disability on them, which is important to enhance their life satisfaction and prevent depressive symptoms.
Perceived Social Support and Quality of Life of Children with and without Developmental Disabilities and Their Caregivers during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Da Costa Isabelle Gansella Rocha , Brugnaro Beatriz Helena , Lima Camila Resende Gâmbaro , Kraus de Camargo Olaf , Fumincelli Lais , Pavão Silvia Letícia , Rocha Nelci Adriana Cicuto Ferreira
Published: March 2023

Background: Social support and Quality of life (QoL) are important aspects of life and should be explored during the specific scenario of the pandemic. Aims: (i) to compare the perceived social support (PSS) in caregivers and the domains of QoL of the caregiver and the child with developmental disabilities (DD) and typical development (TD); (ii) to verify the existence of the association, in each group, between the PSS, and the domain of QoL of the caregiver and the child. Methods and Procedures: 52 caregivers of children with DD and 34 with TD participated remotely. We assessed PSS (Social Support Scale), children’s QoL (PedsQL-4.0-parent proxy) and caregivers’ QoL (PedsQL-Family Impact Module). The groups were compared for the outcomes using the Mann–Whitney test, and Spearman’s test evaluated the correlation between the PSS and the QoL (child and caregiver) in each of the groups. Outcomes and Results: There was no difference between groups for PSS. Children with DD presented lower values in PedsQL total, psychosocial health, physical health, social activities, and school activity. Caregivers of children with TD presented lower values in PedsQL family total, physical capacity, emotional aspect, social aspect, daily activities, and higher value in communication. In the DD group, we found a positive relationship between PSS with child: Psychosocial Health (r = 0.350) and Emotional Aspect (r = 0.380), and with family: Total (r = 0.562), Physical Capacity (r = 0.402), Emotional Aspect (r = 0.492), Social Aspect (r = 0.606), Communication (r = 0.535), Concern (r = 0.303), Daily Activities (r = 0.394) and Family Relationships (r = 0.369). In the TD group, we found that PSS was positively associated with Family: Social Aspect (r = 0.472) and Communication (r = 0.431). Conclusions and Implications: During the COVID-19 pandemic, despite both groups presenting similar PSS, there are important differences in QoL between them. For both groups, greater levels of perceived social support are associated with greater caregiver-reported in some domains of the child’s and caregiver’s QoL. These associations are more numerous, especially for the families of children with DD. This study provides a unique view into the relationships between perceived social support and QoL during the “natural experiment” of living through a pandemic.