bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of Competitive ELISA for Detection of H5 Hemagglutinin Antibodies
Authors: Hochman Orie , Xu Wanhong , Yang Ming , Yang Chengbo , Ambagala Aruna , Rogiewicz Anna , Wang Joseph J. , Berhane Yohannes
Published: July 2023

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) belonging to the goose/Guangdong (Gs/GD)-lineage H5Nx remain a major concern for the global poultry industry, wildlife, and humans. The hemagglutinin (HA) protein is the dominant antigenic epitope carrier within IAV, which in turn triggers substantial immunogenic responses in the infected host. The current study describes the development and validation of a highly sensitive competitive H5 ELISA (cELISA) based on a novel monoclonal antibody developed in mice immunized with inactivated virus H5N1 (A/Turkey/ON/6213/1966). The cELISA is capable of detecting the H5 antibody response to a wider range of H5-subtype viruses belonging to both North American and Eurasia lineages, including the Gs/GD H5Nx from clade 2.3.4.4b that is currently causing the highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in Eurasia, Africa, and Latin and North America. The developed H5 cELISA provides a specific, sensitive, and species-independent serological assay for the rapid detection of H5 antibodies. The assay is more robust and more sensitive than the hemagglutination inhibition assay, which is the “Gold standard”. The assay can be used in serological diagnosis, serosurveillance, and vaccine monitoring of serum samples collected from different species of animals.
Investigation of the Interface Effects and Frosting Mechanism of Nanoporous Alumina Sheets
Authors: He Song , Liu Heyun , Zhang Yuan , Liu Haili , Chen Wang
Published: July 2023

Nanoporous alumina sheets can inhibit the growth of the frost layer in a low-temperature environment, which has been widely used in air-conditioning heat exchangers. In this study, nanoporous alumina sheets with pore diameters of 30 nm, 100 nm, 200 nm, 300 nm, and 400 nm were prepared by using the anodic oxidation method with the conventional polished aluminum sheet as the reference. A comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the frosting mechanism has been proposed based on the contact angle, specific surface area, and fractal dimension. It was found that compared with the polished aluminum sheet, the nanoporous alumina sheets had good anti-frost properties. Due to its special interface effects, the porous alumina sheet with a 100 nm pore diameter had strong anti-frost performance under low temperatures and high humidity. In an environment with low surface temperature and high relative humidity, it is recommended to use hydrophilic aluminum fins with large specific areas and small fractal dimensions for the heat exchange fins of air source heat pump air conditioning systems.
Numerical Simulation of Multi-Fracture Propagation Based on the Extended Finite Element Method
Authors: Ran Qiquan , Zhou Xin , Dong Jiaxin , Xu Mengya , Ren Dianxing , Li Ruibo
Published: July 2023

Multi-stage, multi-cluster fracturing in horizontal wells is widely used as one of the most effective methods for unconventional reservoir transformation. This study is based on the extended finite element method and establishes a multi-hydraulic fracturing propagation model that couples rock damage, stress, and fluid flow, and the influence of horizontal stress difference and cluster spacing on fracture propagation is quantitatively analyzed. The simulation results show that changes in horizontal stress differences and inter-cluster spacing have a significant impact on the final propagation morphology of hydraulic fractures, and the change of the fracture initiation sequence forms different stress shadow areas, which in turn affects the propagation morphology of the fractures. When two fractures simultaneously propagate, they will eventually form a “repulsive” deviation, and a smaller stress difference and a decrease in inter-cluster spacing will lead to a more significant deviation of the fracture. Specifically, when the horizontal stress difference is 4 MPa and the cluster spacing is 6 m, the offset of the fracture tip along the direction of minimum horizontal principal stress is about 1.6 m, compared to the initial perforation position. When two fractures propagate sequentially, the fractures do not significantly deviate and propagate along the direction of maximum horizontal principal stress. When fractures propagate sequentially, the stress difference has little effect on the morphology of the fracture, but changes in inter-cluster spacing will significantly affect the length of the fracture. This study quantifies the effect of inter-fracture interference on fracture propagation morphology, providing guidance for optimizing the construction parameters of multi-stage hydraulic fracturing.
Guo Xiang’s Metaphysics of Being and Action: On the Importance of Xing 性
Authors: D’Ambrosio Paul Joseph
Published: July 2023

Guo Xiang 郭象 (d. 312) holds a unique place in the history of Chinese thought. The only Zhuangzi we have access to is the version heavily edited, likely changed, and perhaps even rewritten by Guo Xiang. However, his commentary on this Daoist classic is not simply an explanation of what the Zhuangzi says, and in many ways, it is not even a development of the thought found within this text—though at times it is indeed both. Reading Guo’s work reveals a complex philosophical system that critically reimagines some of the key terminologies in early Chinese thought, as well as core assumptions about what things are (being) and how they interact (action). This paper seeks to provide a sketch of Guo Xiang’s metaphysical appreciation of being and action by investigating his unique understanding of the relevant terms and their interrelation. Most scholars see ziran 自然 “self-so” as the conceptual glue that holds Guo’s complex system together. In this paper, I will argue that xing 性, which may be translated as “nature” or “natural dispositions” is more fundamental. In other words, without properly appreciating how Guo conceives of xing, interpretations of Guo’s philosophy can easily go awry.
Seeing the Light Again: A Study of Buddhist Ophthalmology in the Tang Dynasty
Authors: Li Wei
Published: July 2023

Buddhist culture places a high priority on the eyes. The restoration of light through the treatment of eye conditions represents the dispelling of the illusion of the transmigratory worlds and the attainment of enlightenment. The treatment of eye disorders was a difficult medical issue that involved numerous prescriptions, procedures, and mantras in the Tang Dynasty medicine. It was not simply a metaphor for wisdom. The narrative of Bai Juyi’s 白居易 (772–846) fighting against eye diseases highlights the value of the golden scalpel technique (jinbi shu 金篦術) and medical texts attributed to Ngârjuna Bodhisattva (Longshu 龍樹), which profoundly affected Chinese medicine on treating the eyes throughout the Tang Dynasty. Furthermore, the tale of Li Shangyin’s 李商隱 (813–858) eyes being treated by Zhixuan 知玄 can only be fully explored within the context of the Esoteric Buddhism, where mandalas, prescriptions, rituals, and dhāraṇīs are frequently used in conjunction with eye care. The case of Qin Minghe 秦鳴鶴, however, suggests that ophthalmology practiced by Buddhists may become more popular as a result of religious competition.
ChatGPT-Enabled daVinci Surgical Robot Prototype: Advancements and Limitations
Authors: Pandya Abhilash
Published: July 2023

The daVinci Surgical Robot has revolutionized minimally invasive surgery by enabling greater accuracy and less-invasive procedures. However, the system lacks the advanced features and autonomy necessary for it to function as a true partner. To enhance its usability, we introduce the implementation of a ChatGPT-based natural language robot interface. Overall, our integration of a ChatGPT-enabled daVinci Surgical Robot has potential to expand the utility of the surgical platform by supplying a more accessible interface. Our system can listen to the operator speak and, through the ChatGPT-enabled interface, translate the sentence and context to execute specific commands to alter the robot’s behavior or to activate certain features. For instance, the surgeon could say (even in Spanish) “please track my left tool” and the system will translate the sentence into a specific track command. This specific error-checked command will then be sent to the hardware, which will respond by controlling the camera of the system to continuously adjust and center the left tool in the field of view. We have implemented many commands, including “Find my tools” (tools that are not in the field of view) or start/stop recording, that can be triggered based on a natural conversational context. Here, we present the details of our prototype system, give some accuracy results, and explore its potential implications and limitations. We also discuss how artificial intelligence tools (such as ChatGPT) of the future could be leveraged by robotic surgeons to reduce errors and enhance the efficiency and safety of surgical procedures and even ask for help.
Augmented Gravity Field Modelling by Combining EIGEN_6C4 and Topographic Potential Models
Authors: Zhang Panpan , Bao Lifeng , Ma Yange , Liu Xinyu
Published: July 2023

One of the key goals of geodesy is to study the fine structure of the Earth’s gravity field and construct a high-resolution gravity field model (GFM). Aiming at the current insufficient resolution problem of the EIGEN_6C4 model, the refined ultra-high degree models EIGEN_3660 and EIGEN_5480 are determined with a spectral expansion approach in this study, which is to augment EIGEN_6C4 model using topographic potential models (TPMs). A comparative spectral evaluation for EIGEN_6C4, EIGEN_3660, and EIGEN_5480 models indicates that the gravity field spectral powers of EIGEN_3660 and EIGEN_5480 models outperform the EIGEN_6C4 model after degree 2000. The augmented models EIGEN_3660 and EIGEN_5480 are verified using the deflection of the vertical (DOV) of China and Colorado, gravity data from Australia and mainland America, and GNSS/leveling in China. The validation results indicate that the accuracy of EIGEN_3660 and EIGEN_5480 models in determining height anomaly, DOV, and gravity anomaly outperform the EIGEN_6C4 model, and the EIGEN_5480 model has optimal accuracy. The accuracy of EIGEN_5480 model in determining south–north component and east–west component of the DOV in China has been improved by about 21.1% and 23.1% compared to the EIGEN_6C4 model, respectively. In the mountainous Colorado, the accuracy of EIGEN_5480 model in determining south–north component and east–west component of the DOV has been improved by about 28.2% and 35.2% compared to EIGEN_6C4 model, respectively. In addition, gravity value comparison results in Australia and mainland America indicate that the accuracy of the EIGEN_5480 model for deriving gravity anomalies is improved by 16.5% and 11.3% compared to the EIGEN_6C4 model, respectively.
How to Optimize High-Value GEP Areas to Identify Key Areas for Protection and Restoration: The Integration of Ecology and Complex Networks
Authors: Wang Luying , Wang Siyuan , Liang Xiaofei , Jiang Xuebing , Wang Jiping , Li Chuang , Chang Shihui , You Yongfa , Su Kai
Published: July 2023

Identifying and protecting key sites of ecological assets and improving spatial connectivity and accessibility are important measures taken to protect ecological diversity. This study takes Guangxi as the research area. Based on the gross ecosystem product (GEP), the ecological source is identified, and the initial ecological network (EN) is constructed by identifying the ecological corridor with the minimum cumulative resistance model. The internal defects of the initial ecological network are extracted using the circuit theory, the priority areas for restoration and protection with clear spatial positions are determined according to the complex network analysis, and the network’s performance before and after optimization is comprehensively evaluated. The results show that 456 initial ecological sources and 1219 ecological corridors have been identified, forming the initial ecological network of Guangxi. Based on the circuit theory, 168 ecological barriers, 83 ecological pinch points, and 71 ecological stepping stones were extracted for network optimization. After optimizing the ecological network, there are 778 ecological sources with a total area of 73,950.56 km2 and 2078 ecological corridors with a total length of 23,922.07 km. The GEP of the optimized structure is 13.33% higher than that of the non-optimized structure. The priority areas for protection are distributed in a large area, and the attached GEP reaches USD 118 billion, accounting for 72% of the total GEP attached to the optimized ecological source area. The priority areas for restoration are scattered in small patches, with a GEP of USD 19.27 billion. The robustness and connectivity of the optimized ecological network have been improved obviously. This study attempts to identify key sites of ecological assets and the priority regions for restoration and conservation using genuine geographical location and reference materials for regional ecological network optimization and implementation.
Research on 4-D Imaging of Holographic SAR Differential Tomography
Authors: Jin Shuang , Bi Hui , Feng Jing , Xu Weihao , Xu Jin , Zhang Jingjing
Published: July 2023

Holographic synthetic aperture radar tomography (HoloSAR) combines circular synthetic aperture radar (CSAR) and SAR tomography (TomoSAR) to enable a 360° azimuth observation of the considered scene. This imaging mode achieves a high-resolution three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction across a full 360°. To capture the deformation information of the observed target, this paper first explores the differential HoloSAR imaging mode, which combines the technologies of CSAR and differential TomoSAR (D-TomoSAR). Then, we propose an imaging method based on the orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) algorithm and a support generalized likelihood ratio (Sup-GLRT), aiming to achieve high-precision multi-dimensional reconstruction of the surveillance area. In addition, a statistical outlier removal (SOR) point cloud filtering technique is applied to enhance the accuracy of the reconstructed point cloud. Finally, this paper presents the detection of vehicle changes in a parking lot based on the 3-D reconstructed results.
Mars Rover Penetrating Radar Modeling and Interpretation Considering Linear Frequency Modulation Source and Tilted Antenna
Authors: Zhong Shichao , Wang Yibo , Zheng Yikang , Chen Ling
Published: July 2023

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) has been extensively utilized in deep-space exploration. However, GPR modeling commonly employs simplified antenna models and carrier-free impulse signals, resulting in reduced accuracy and interpretability. In this paper, we addressed these limitations by combining a tilted monopole antenna and linear frequency modulation continuous wave (LFMCW) to simulate real conditions. Additionally, a radiation-pattern-compensation back-propagation (RPC-BP) algorithm was developed to improve the illumination of the right-inclined structure. We first introduced the LFMCW used by the Mars Rover Penetrating Radar (RoPeR) onboard the Zhurong rover, where frequencies range from 15 to 95 MHz. Although the LFMCW signal improves radiation efficiency, it increases data processing complexity. Then, the radiation patterns and response of the tilted monopole antenna were analyzed, where the radiated signal amplitude varies with frequency. Finally, a series of numerical and laboratory experiments were conducted to interpret the real RoPeR data. The results indicate that hyperbolic echoes tilt in the opposite direction of the survey direction. This study demonstrates that forward modeling considering real transmit signals and complex antenna models can improve modeling accuracy and prevent misleading interpretations on deep-space exploration missions. Moreover, the migration process can improve imaging quality by considering radiation pattern compensation.
Identification of Ballast Fouling Status and Mechanized Cleaning Efficiency Using FDTD Method
Authors: Li Bo , Peng Zhan , Wang Shilei , Guo Linyan
Published: July 2023

Systematic assessment of ballast fouling and mechanized cleaning efficiency through ground penetrating radar (GPR) is vital to ensure track stability and safe train transportation. Nevertheless, conventional methods of ballast fouling inspection and evaluation impede construction progress and escalate the cost of maintenance. This paper proposes a novel method using random irregular polygons and collision detection algorithms to model the ballast layer and simulated using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) algorithm. Hilbert transform energy, S-transform, and energy integration curve are employed to identify ballast fouling and cleaning efficiency. The highly fouled ballast exhibits concentrated Hilbert transform energy, increased energy attenuation rate in S-transform with depth in the 1.0-3.0 GHz, along with a stronger energy integration curve. Clean or post-cleaning ballast shows opposite results. Experiments on a passenger trunk line in southern China validated the method’s accuracy after mechanized ballast cleaning. This approach guides GPR-based detection and supports railway maintenance. Future studies will consider heterogeneous properties and the three-dimensional structure of the ballast layer.
When States Regionally Integrate: How Relative Economic Size and Institutional Homogeneity Matter
Authors: Genna Gaspare M.
Published: July 2023

This study compares two articles that seek to explain why states participate in regional integration organizations and why they want to deepen their economic and political partnerships. The method of comparison is the systemist diagrammatic approach, which requires a deconstruction and mapping of ideas found in social science. The articles demonstrate common variables in their explanations, namely that power asymmetry and satisfaction with the status quo among regional partners are critical in determining why states integrate. The articles diverge in their explanations, with one emphasizing the similarities of institutionalized policies and the other the role a rising power, China, has in developing regional integration in the Western Hemisphere.
The New Conception of Radiological Sustainability Possibilities by Reutilization of Residues Products and Building Materials
Authors: Shahrokhi Amin , Tettey-Larbi Lordford , Akuo-ko Esther Osei , Tóth-Bodrogi Edit , Kovács Tibor
Published: July 2023

The concept of radiological sustainability has been reviewed using the possibility of the reutilization of NORMs regarding the 2050 sustainable development concepts. This study is reviewing the capability of re-production of NORM residues based on their properties and the applicable treatment before reutilization. Linking the waste producers and construction materials industry as mineral end-users could contribute to the creation of industrial symbiosis and result in waste reduction and preserving natural resources on one hand, and CO2 reducing and energy saving on the other hand. According to EU-BSS (European Basic Safety Standards Directive), the characterization of NORMs as a secondary raw material for use as construction materials is necessary, however as an additive or secondary material their radiological behavior and material properties are quite important regardless of their origin. This is to say that the reutilization of NORM residues provides a better financial and environmental solution while reducing possible radiological effects on humans. NORM residue or waste could become a high material resource for the cement industry. In this regard, the assessment of radium equivalents (Raeq) and external and internal indexes (I-indexes) are useful tools to classify NORM residues before their inclusion in building products. This assessment and/or indexes reflect the risk of external exposure much better than the specific activity concentration of Ra-226, Th-232 and K-40. Equally, building material properties such as density and thickness should be taken into consideration when designing building materials that contain NORM residue. Furthermore, mixtures or additives of NORM residues are proven to result in the reduction of activity concentration in the raw residue with other raw materials, and this offers flexible reuse options depending on the final product. By integrating radiological considerations into sustainable development initiatives, we can work towards a safer, healthier and more sustainable future.
Intelligent Assessment Method of Structural Reliability Driven by Carrying Capacity Sustainable Target: Taking Bearing Capacity as Criterion
Authors: Shi Guoliang , Liu Zhansheng , Xian Dengzhou , Zhang Rongtian
Published: July 2023

Large-scale building structures are subject to numerous uncertain loads during their service life, leading to a decrease in structural reliability. Real-time analysis and accurate prediction of structural reliability is a key step to improve the bearing capacity of buildings. This study proposes an intelligent assessment method for structural reliability driven by a sustainability target, which incorporated digital twin technology to establish an intelligent evaluation framework for structural reliability. Under the guidance of the evaluation framework, the establishment method of a structural high-fidelity twin model is formed. The mechanical properties and reliability analysis mechanism are established based on the high-fidelity twin model. The theoretical method was validated by experimental analysis of a rigid cable truss construction. The results showed the simulation accuracy of the high-fidelity twin model formed by the modeling method is up to 95%. With the guidance of the proposed evaluation method, the mechanical response of the structure under different load cases was accurately analyzed, and the coupling relationship between component failure and reliability indicators was obtained. The twinning model can be used to analyze the reliability of the structure in real time and help to set maintenance measures of structural safety. By analyzing the bearing capacity and reliability index of the structure, the safety of the structure under load is guaranteed. The sustainability of structural performance is achieved during the normal service period of the structure. The proposed reliability assessment method provides a new approach to improving the sustainability of building bearing capacity.
Influence of Recycled Cement Paste Powder on Early-Age Plastic Shrinkage and Cracking of Cement-Based Materials
Authors: Wang Yuanhuang , Lu Zheng , Wang Dianchao , Tan Qihang , Wu Weiwei , Zhu Liming
Published: July 2023

Cement-based materials, especially those with low water-cement ratios, often experience premature cracking due to plastic shrinkage in the early curing stages. In this study, the development mechanism of early-age plastic shrinkage of cement paste, and the crack shrinkage control effect of recycled cement paste powder on cement paste, was quantitatively investigated using non-contacting two-dimensional digital image technology. The influence of different replacement rates (5%, 10%, 20% and 30%) of recycled cement paste powder on the major principal strain and crack patterns of cement paste was investigated. Furthermore, the mechanism of recycled cement paste powder on the early-age plastic shrinkage of cement-based materials was explored. The results show that the addition of recycled cement paste powder could suppress the early-age plastic shrinkage of cement paste. An appropriate replacement ratio (10%) of recycled cement paste powder shows a 33.3% time delay in crack appearance and a 28.0% reduction in the major principal strain. However, the higher replacement ratio of 30% shows an adverse effect on the major principal strain, with an increase of 35.1%. The core mechanism of the appropriate recycled cement paste powder on plastic shrinkage reduction lies in its porous nature, which allows for water absorption and release and regulates the moisture state inside the pores. This quantitative research of the major principal strain development of the early-age plastic shrinkage of cement paste can facilitate a better understanding of plastic shrinkage reduction in recycled cement paste powder on cement paste.
Consumer Acceptance of Fungus-Resistant Grape Varieties—An Exploratory Study Using Sensory Evaluation Tests among Consumers in Germany
Authors: Kiefer Christoph , Szolnoki Gergely
Published: July 2023

To align with the target of reducing plant protection measures within the EU Green Deal programme, the utilisation of resistant grape varieties in viticulture becomes indispensable. Consequently, this study investigated the factors that influence consumer acceptance of fungus-resistant grape varieties (FRGV) in Germany. The qualitative research methodology involved conducting semi-structured interviews, including sensory evaluation tests, with focus groups consisting of 48 consumers and evaluating the data using content analysis. The findings revealed that the attractiveness of a grape variety is determined by four distinct attributes: familiarity, designation, association, and image. Furthermore, FRGV can be made more attractive to consumers by using denominations based on established grape varieties or by using and associating them with their sensory patterns. The sensory acceptance of FRGV varies significantly across consumer segments and vinification methods. Providing relevant information about the benefits of resistant grape varieties has a positive impact on consumer acceptance, and the level of interest and relevance varies by target group. The study suggests that it is possible to enhance consumer acceptance by offering attractive grape varieties, targeting group-specific sensory profiles, and engaging in storytelling campaigns that educate consumers about the advantages of resistant grapes.
The Sustainability of Family Ownership on the Choice of Foreign Market Entry Mode: Empirical Evidence from Listed Family Firms in China
Authors: Wang Qingnian , Wang Yunpei , Li Xiaoping , Tang Lan
Published: July 2023

Family firms make up the majority of private firms in China and play an important role in China’s national economy. With the deepening development of globalization and the implementation of the “going global” strategy, the overseas investment of family firms in China is increasing day by day. In the process of overseas investment, family firms often face the choice of equity entry mode. And, family strategic decisions may be influenced by family characteristics, in which family ownership is the key. Therefore, this paper discusses how family ownership affects the choice of equity entry mode in the overseas market of family firms. Based on social emotional wealth theory, this paper tries to discuss the relationship between family ownership and equity entry mode of Family firms, bring in external environment and internal governance factors of family firms, and put forward a research hypothesis. In order to verify the hypothesis, this paper takes 623 A-share listed family firms in the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock markets of China from 2010 to 2018 as research samples and tests the data through binomial logistic regression. The findings are as follows: (1) There is a positive correlation between family ownership and the entry mode of family firms in overseas markets. (2) Both the investment uncertainty of a host country and the shareholding ratio of institutional investors negatively moderate the positive correlation between family ownership and the shareholding entry mode of family firms in overseas markets. (3) The quality of home and regional institutions positively moderates the relationship between family ownership and family firms’ equity entry mode in overseas markets. The conclusions expand the empirical research on the relationship between the heterogeneity of Chinese family firms, the strategy of equity entry mode, and their sustainability.
How Can Fintech Companies Get Involved in the Environment?
Authors: Ashta Arvind
Published: July 2023

Financial services providers have the funds to finance climate change, and new entrepreneurs would like to join this effort. They need ideas on what fintechs can do to make money yet be sustainable. The research purpose of this study is to explore what fintechs are doing in this field of climate change and what theoretical and policy implications can be gained. This exploratory study uses a multiple case study method, using secondary sources of information. The sample includes five big fintechs and twelve green fintechs. The study finds that large fintech firms are diverse in the extent of their reporting and the issues that they are tackling, but they all report on their Scope 1 and Scope 2 impacts, and most report on Scope 3. Smaller dedicated green fintechs in the sample are grouped into those that offer to crowdfund green projects, those that track the impact of green projects or other firms or individuals, payment firms that invest directly into green projects, and those that provide a platform for peer-to-peer trading of renewable energy. The exploration is relevant to theories and concepts, including product differentiation and enhancement, disruptive innovation, collaborative ecosystems, and environmental and social impacts. Using lateral thinking, microfinance, and work-sharing research can stimulate reflection on developing more inclusive and advanced green fintech offerings. A few directions for future research in this field have been provided for those interested in impact measurement, strategic management, business models, risk management, or innovation theories.
Ecological Asset Assessment and Ecological Compensation Standards for Desert Nature Reserves: Evidence from Three Different Climate Zones in China
Authors: Ma Li , Pang Danbo , Gao Jie , Wang Wenbin , Sun Ruoxiu
Published: July 2023

The ecological environments of nature reserves with desert ecosystems are fragile, and it is necessary to implement scientific and effective ecological compensation strategies. However, the development of an ecological compensation theory for desert ecosystems is relatively immature, and no proprietary, theoretical basis or system has yet been formed. When formulating compensation standards for ecological protection, it is usually necessary to draw on other types of compensation theories to formulate ecological compensation strategies. This study focuses on three nature reserves located in different desert climatic zones as the research object—a hyper-arid desertification area, an arid desertification area, and a semi-arid desertification area—which serve as the main bodies for evaluating ecological assets. Considering the direct costs and opportunity costs of the ecological protection of nature reserves, we can estimate appropriate ecological compensation standards. The study’s results show that the ecological asset value per unit area and the ecological compensation standard are the greatest in the semi-arid desertification climate area. The ecological asset value per unit area of Haba Lake nature reserves is 6.59 × 104 CNY/hm2, and the ecological compensation standard is 1.18 × 104 CNY/hm2. The cost of ecological protection of Anxi nature reserves is 8204.09 × 104 CNY/hm2, and the ecological compensation standard is 0.15 × 104 CNY/hm2. The cost of ecological protection is the greatest, and the standard of ecological compensation is the lowest, in the hyper-arid desertification climate area. The ecological compensation coefficients of the hyper-arid, arid, and semi-arid desertified areas were 0.181, 0.183, and 0.180, respectively. The research results could provide a scientific basis for the formulation of differentiated ecological protection compensation standards for nature reserves with desert ecosystems, and they provide an effective theoretical basis and technical support for the construction of other types of ecological protection compensation models.
The Role of Metropolitan Areas in the Spatial Differentiation of Food Festivals
Authors: Kloskowski Dariusz , Kwiatkowski Grzegorz , Janiszewska Dorota , Ossowska Luiza
Published: July 2023

Central places described in the literature as metropolitan cities or urban hubs significantly impact the socioeconomic development of their surroundings, hence the interest in their influence on the organization of local food tasting and promotion events. This paper aims to identify the spatial differentiation of food festivals in Poland, focusing on major metropolitan areas. The study presents a geostatistical analysis conducted with the use of spatial interpolation methods, with the aim of revealing the extent of the impact of metropolitan areas on the organization of food festivals, which are a determining factor in the development of a given area with the simultaneous initiation of the impact area’s own brand. The study consists of a literature review and spatial data collection regarding Polish geolocation of food festivals. Detailed analyses cover food festivals which, in terms of the number of visitors and their circumstances, could be classified as mass events, while considering their impact on the voivodship and ultimately, Poland as a whole. The results are compiled in cartographic, descriptive, and tabular forms. A synthesis was conducted separately for each voivodship. The study’s results confirm the hypothesis that the spatial autocorrelation of food festivals is related to the directionality of the major supply chains and the gradient of human movement intensity. The movements of people and cargo along this direction strongly determine key decisions regarding the organization of food festivals.
Analyzing Resource and Environment Carrying Capacity of Kunming City Based on Fuzzy Matter–Element Model
Authors: Zhang Mengya , Tan Shucheng , Zhou Jinxuan , Wang Chao , Liu Feipeng
Published: July 2023

The determination of the sustainable development of a region requires estimating its carrying capacity in terms of resources and environment. It is essential to investigate the carrying capacity of Kunming City to comprehend its rapid development and create a resource and environment-friendly society. This research involved the selection of a set of 35 evaluation indicators from three categories: resources, environment, and social economy. These indicators were chosen based on statistical data obtained from Kunming City between 2011 and 2020. An evaluation system was established using the entropy weight method to determine the weight of these indicators. Subsequently, the fuzzy matter–element analysis method was utilized to construct the European closeness model of Kunming’s resource and environmental carrying capacity. The correlation between the carrying capacity of resources and environment and sub-carrying capacities was analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient to determine the degree of influence of different aspects on the carrying capacity of resources and environment in Kunming. The results show a consistent upward trend in the carrying capacity of resources and environment in Kunming City from 2011 to 2019. However, in 2020, due to national policy adjustments and the impact of COVID-19 on the social economy, the resource and environment carrying capacity index in Kunming City slightly decreased.
Hydrochars Derived from Spent Coffee Grounds as Zn Bio-Chelates for Agronomic Biofortification
Authors: Lara-Ramos Leslie , Cervera-Mata Ana , Fernández-Bayo Jesús , Navarro-Alarcón Miguel , Delgado Gabriel , Fernández-Arteaga Alejandro
Published: July 2023

Previous studies have attributed both phytotoxicity and the capacity to mobilize nutrient elements to the presence of polyphenols and melanoidins in spent coffee grounds (SCG) and SCG-hydrochars obtained through hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). This work aimed to evaluate SCG and two SCG-hydrochars obtained at 160 and 200 °C that were functionalized with Zn salts (bio-chelates), to achieve the in vitro biofortification of lettuce. Two application modes were established: (1) a fixed Zn concentration of 10 mg kg−1 of soil and (2) a fixed dose of 0.5% bio-product. Soil alone (control A) and commercial chelates (control B) were used as controls. Outcomes showed that SCG-hydrochars retain the capacity to mobilize Zn compared to SCG. However, the chelating capacity was reduced (Zn: 94%) and the toxicity was significantly increased (p < 0.05) with higher temperatures of HTC (200 °C). Both fresh and dry lettuce weights were less affected at doses of 0.5% of bio-product and registered a maximum increase of 136% of Zn in the plant content. The present study approaches the possibility of using these by-products as bioinorganic fertilizers at subtoxic doses, although more research is needed.
Numerical Analysis of Time-Fractional Porous Media and Heat Transfer Equations Using a Semi-Analytical Approach
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad , Islam Asad , Karim Shazia , Mureşan Sorin , Iambor Loredana Florentina
Published: July 2023

In nature, symmetry is all around us. The symmetry framework represents integer partial differential equations and their fractional order in the sense of Caputo derivatives. This article suggests a semi-analytical approach based on Aboodh transform (AT) and the homotopy perturbation scheme (HPS) for achieving the approximate solution of time-fractional porous media and heat transfer equations. The AT converts the fractional problems into simple ones and obtains the recurrence relation without any discretization or assumption. This nonlinear recurrence relation can be decomposed via the use of the HPS to obtain the iterations in terms of series solutions. The initial conditions play an important role in determining the successive iterations and yields towards the exact solution. We provide some numerical applications to analyze the accuracy of this proposed scheme and show that the performance of our scheme has strong agreement with the exact results.
Symmetry-Based Fusion Algorithm for Bone Age Detection with YOLOv5 and ResNet34
Authors: Sheng Wenshun , Shen Jiahui , Huang Qiming , Liu Zhixuan , Lin Jiayan , Zhu Qi , Zhou Lan
Published: July 2023

Bone age is the chronological age of human bones, which serves as a key indicator of the maturity of bone development and can more objectively reflect the extent of human growth and development. The prevalent viewpoint and research development direction now favor the employment of deep learning-based bone age detection algorithms to determine bone age. Although bone age detection accuracy has increased when compared to more established methods, more work needs to be conducted to raise it because bone age detection is primarily used in clinical medicine, forensic identification, and other critical and rigorous fields. Due to the symmetry of human hand bones, bone age detection can be performed on either the left hand or the right hand, and the results are the same. In other words, the bone age detection results of both hands are universal. In this regard, the left hand is chosen as the target of bone age detection in this paper. To accomplish this, the You Only Look Once-v5 (YOLOv5) and Residual Network-34 (ResNet34) integration techniques are combined in this paper to create an innovative bone age detection model (YARN), which is then combined with the RUS-CHN scoring method that applies to Chinese adolescent children to comprehensively assess bone age at multiple levels. In this study, the images in the hand bone dataset are first preprocessed with number enhancement, then YOLOv5 is used to train the hand bone dataset to identify and filter out the main 13 joints in the hand bone, and finally, ResNet34 is used to complete the classification of local joints and achieve the determination of the developmental level of the detected region, followed by the calculation of the bone age by combining with the RUS-CHN method. The bone age detection model based on YOLOv5 and ResNet34 can significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of bone age detection, and the model has significant advantages in the deep feature extraction of key regions of hand bone joints, which can efficiently complete the task of bone age detection. This was discovered through experiments on the public dataset of Flying Paddle AI Studio.
Prenatal Cadmium Exposure and Maternal Sex Steroid Hormone Concentrations across Pregnancy
Authors: Rivera-Núñez Zorimar , Hansel Megan , Capurro Camila , Kozlosky Danielle , Wang Christina , Doherty Cathleen L. , Buckley Brian , Ohman-Strickland Pamela , Miller Richard K. , O’Connor Thomas G. , Aleksunes Lauren M. , Barrett Emily S.
Published: July 2023

Cadmium exposure has been associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. One possible mechanism is endocrine disruption. Studies of non-pregnant adults suggest that cadmium impacts androgen production; here, we examined these associations during pregnancy. Participants in the Understanding Pregnancy Signals and Infant Development (UPSIDE) cohort provided biospecimens and questionnaire data in each trimester (n = 272). We quantified urinary cadmium, serum total testosterone (TT), estrone, estradiol, and estriol and serum free testosterone (fT). In adjusted longitudinal models, we examined sex steroid concentrations across pregnancy in relation to specific gravity-adjusted, ln-transformed cadmium concentrations. Additionally, we examined trimester-specific associations and stratified models by fetal sex. Results are presented as percent change (%∆) in hormone concentrations. In longitudinal models, higher cadmium concentrations were associated with lower fT across pregnancy (%∆ = −5.19, 95%CI: −8.33, −1.93), with no differences in other hormones observed. In trimester-specific models, higher cadmium concentrations were associated with lower TT in trimester 2 (%∆ = −15.26, 95%CI: −25.15, −4.06) and lower fT in trimester 3 (%∆ = −14.35, 95%CI: −19.75, −8.59). Associations with TT were stronger in pregnancies carrying female fetuses. Maternal cadmium exposure may be associated with reduced testosterone in pregnancy. Additional work is necessary to understand how alterations in gestational testosterone activity may impact pregnancy and child health.
Improved Model of Primordial Black Hole Formation after Starobinsky Inflation
Authors: Saburov Sultan , Ketov Sergei V.
Published: July 2023

A new (improved) model of inflation and primordial black hole (PBH) formation is proposed by combining the Starobinsky model of inflation, Appleby–Battye–Starobinsky (ABS) model of dark energy, and a quantum correction in the modified F(R) gravity. The energy scale parameter in the ABS model is taken to be close to the inflationary scale, in order to describe double inflation instead of dark energy. The quantum correction is given by the term quartic in the spacetime scalar curvature R with a negative coefficient (−δ) in the F(R) function. It is demonstrated that very good agreement (within 1σ) with current measurements of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation can be achieved by choosing the proper value of δ, thus solving the problem of low values of the tilt of CMB scalar perturbations in the earlier proposed model in arXiv:2205.00603. A large (by a factor of 107 against CMB) enhancement in the power spectrum of scalar perturbations is achieved by fine tuning the parameters of the model. It is found by numerical analysis that it can lead to formation of asteroid-size PBHs with masses up to 1020 g, which may form dark matter in the current universe.
Oral Probenecid for Nonhospitalized Adults with Symptomatic Mild-to-Moderate COVID-19
Authors: Martin David E. , Pandey Neelam , Chavda Purvi , Singh Gurpreet , Sutariya Rakesh , Sancilio Frederic , Tripp Ralph A.
Published: July 2023

Probenecid is an orally bioavailable, uricosuric agent that was first approved in 1951 for the treatment of gout, but was later found to have potent, broad-spectrum antiviral activity against several respiratory viruses including SARS-CoV-2. We conducted a phase 2 randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind, dose-range finding study in non-hospitalized patients with symptomatic, mild-to-moderate COVID-19. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive either 500 mg of probenecid, 1000 mg of probenecid, or a matching placebo every 12 h for five days. The patients’ COVID-19 viral load hospitalization, or death from any cause through day 28, as well as safety, were evaluated. COVID-19-related symptoms were assessed at baseline, and on days 3, 5, 10, 15, and 28. The primary endpoints of the study were time to first negative SARS-CoV-2 viral test (or viral clearance) and the proportion of patients that were symptom-free at day 5. A total of 75 patients were randomized, with 25 patients in each group. All of the patients completed the study as planned with no hospitalizations or deaths being reported. The median time to viral clearance was significantly shorter for the probenecid 1000 mg group than for placebo (7 days vs. 11 days, respectively; p < 0.0001), and for the probenecid 500 mg group versus placebo (9 days vs. 11 days, respectively; p < 0.0001). In addition, the median time to viral clearance was significantly shorter for the probenecid 1000 mg group than for the probenecid 500 mg group (7 days vs. 9 days, respectively; p < 0.0001). All patients reported at least one COVID-19-related symptom on days 3 and 5; however, on day 10, a significantly greater proportion of patients receiving probenecid 1000 mg reported the complete resolution of symptoms versus placebo (68% vs. 20%, respectively; p = 0.0006), as well as for those receiving probenecid 500 mg versus placebo (56% vs. 20%, respectively, p = 0.0087). The incidence of adverse events during treatment was similar across all groups for any adverse event, and was 12%. All events were mild with no serious adverse events reported and no discontinuations due to an adverse event. The treatment of patients with symptomatic, mild-to-moderate COVID-19 with probenecid resulted in a significant, dose-dependent decrease in the time to viral clearance and a significantly higher proportion of patients reporting complete symptom resolution by day 10. (Supported by TrippBio; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT05442983 and Clinical Trials Registry India number CTRI/2022/07/043726).
Effectiveness of Oral Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir vs. Intravenous Three-Day Remdesivir in Preventing Progression to Severe COVID-19: A Single-Center, Prospective, Comparative, Real-Life Study
Authors: Basoulis Dimitrios , Tsakanikas Aristeidis , Gkoufa Aikaterini , Bitsani Aikaterini , Karamanakos Georgios , Mastrogianni Elpida , Georgakopoulou Vasiliki E. , Makrodimitri Sotiria , Voutsinas Pantazis-Michail , Lamprou Panagiota , Kontos Athanasios , Tsiakas Stathis , Gamaletsou Maria N. , Marinaki Smaragdi , Sipsas Nikolaos V.
Published: July 2023

Background: Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (NMV/r) and three-day course remdesivir (3RDV) have been approved as early treatments for COVID-19 outpatients not requiring supplemental oxygen. Real-life data on the efficacy of antivirals among immunocompromised patients or directly comparing their effectiveness in preventing hospitalization and/or death are scarce. Methods: Prospective, observational study conducted in a tertiary care hospital, from 1 January 2022 until 15 March 2023, during the prevalence of the Omicron variant. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to account for differences between treatment groups. Results: We included 521, mainly immunocompromised (56%), patients in our analysis; 356 (68.3%) received 3RDV and 165 (31.7%) NMV/r. Overall, 15/521 (2.9%) patients met the primary end-point of hospitalization at 30 days (3RDV arm: 10/356, 2.8% vs. NMV/r arm: 5/165, 3%, p = 1). On IPTW-adjusted univariable analysis, the choice of treatment did not affect outcomes. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, we found that one (OR 0.26, 95%CI 0.07–0.99, p = 0.049) or two (OR 0.06, 95%CI 0.01–0.55, p = 0.014) vaccine booster shots reduced the risk for adverse outcomes. Conclusion: In our patient population of high-risk, mainly immunocompromised, vaccinated patients during the prevalence of the Omicron variant, NMV/r and 3RDV were equally effective early treatments for the prevention of hospitalization and/or death.