bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Using a Rehabilitation Robot for Patients with Post-Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Fatigue Syndrome
Authors: Trzmiel Tomasz , Marchewka Renata , Pieczyńska Anna , Zasadzka Ewa , Zubrycki Igor , Kozak Dominika , Mikulski Michał , Poświata Anna , Tobis Sławomir , Hojan Katarzyna
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of traditional neurological rehabilitation and neurological rehabilitation combined with a rehabilitation robot for patients with post-COVID-19 fatigue syndrome. Eighty-six participants transferred from intensive care units due to post-viral fatigue after COVID-19 were randomly divided into two groups: the intervention group and the control group. The control group received standard neurological rehabilitation for 120 min a day, while the intervention group received the same neurological rehabilitation for 75 min a day, complemented by 45 min of exercises on the rehabilitation robot. The Berg scale, Tinetti scale, six-minute walking test, isokinetic muscle force test, hand grip strength, Barthel Index, and Functional Independence Measure were used to measure the outcomes. Both groups improved similarly during the rehabilitation. Between groups, a comparison of before/after changes revealed that the intervention group improved better in terms of Functional Independence Measure (p = 0.015) and mean extensor strength (p = 0.023). The use of EMG-driven robots in the rehabilitation of post-COVID-19 fatigue syndrome patients was shown to be effective.
Triangular Sierpinski Microwave Band-Stop Resonators for K-Band Filtering
Authors: Marcelli Romolo , Sardi Giovanni Maria , Proietti Emanuela , Capoccia Giovanni , Iannacci Jacopo , Tagliapietra Girolamo , Giacomozzi Flavio
Published: September 2023

Triangular resonators re-shaped with Sierpinski geometry were designed, manufactured, and tested for potential applications in the K-Band. Prototypes of band-stop filters working around 20 GHz and 26 GHz, interesting for RADAR and satellite communications, were studied in a coplanar waveguide (CPW) configuration. Single and coupled structures were analyzed to give evidence for: (i) the tuning of the resonance frequency by increasing the internal complexity of the triangle and (ii) resonance enhancement when coupled structures are considered. The exploited devices were part of the more extended family of metamaterial-inspired structures, and they were studied for their heuristic approach to the prediction of the spectrum using experimental results supported by electromagnetic simulations. As a result, a Sierpinski resonator, not only fed into but also fully embedded into a CPW environment, had a frequency response that was not easily determined by classical theoretical approaches.
A Strain Transfer Model for Detection of Pitting Corrosion and Loading Force of Steel Rebar with Distributed Fiber Optic Sensor
Authors: Hu Jialiang , Tang Fujian , Li Tianjiao , Li Gang , Li Hong-Nan
Published: September 2023

Steel rebar corrosion is one of the predominant factors influencing the durability of marine and offshore reinforced concrete structures, resulting in economic loss and the potential threat to human safety. Distributed fiber optic sensors (DFOSs) have gradually become an effective method for structural health monitoring over the past two decades. In this work, a strain transfer model is developed between a steel rebar and a DFOS, considering pitting-corrosion-induced strain variation in the steel rebar. The Gaussian function is first adopted to describe the strain distribution near the corrosion pit of the steel rebar and then is substituted into the governing equation of the strain transfer model, and the strain distribution in the DFOS is analytically obtained. Tensile tests are also conducted on steel rebars with artificially simulated corrosion pits, which are used to validate the developed model. The results show that the Gaussian function can be used to describe the strain variation near a corrosion pit with a depth less than 50% of the steel rebar diameter, and the strain distribution in the DFOS analytically determined based on the developed strain transfer model agrees well with the tensile test results. The corrosion pit depth and loading force in the steel rebars estimated based on the proposed model agree well with the actual values, and therefore, the developed strain transfer model is effective in detecting pitting corrosion and loading force in steel rebars.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Connected Vehicles for Traffic Flow Optimization
Authors: Shahbazi Zeinab , Nowaczyk Slawomir
Published: September 2023

In urban settings, the prevalence of traffic lights often leads to fluctuations in traffic patterns and increased energy utilization among vehicles. Recognizing this challenge, this research addresses the adverse effects of traffic lights on the energy efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs) through the introduction of a Multi-Intersections-Based Eco-Approach and Departure strategy (M-EAD). This innovative strategy is designed to enhance various aspects of urban mobility, including vehicle energy efficiency, traffic flow optimization, and battery longevity, all while ensuring a satisfactory driving experience. The M-EAD strategy unfolds in two distinct stages: First, it optimizes eco-friendly green signal windows at traffic lights, with a primary focus on minimizing travel delays by solving the shortest path problem. Subsequently, it employs a receding horizon framework and leverages an iterative dynamic programming algorithm to refine speed trajectories. The overarching objective is to curtail energy consumption and reduce battery wear by identifying the optimal speed trajectory for EVs in urban environments. Furthermore, the research substantiates the real-world efficacy of this approach through on-road vehicle tests, attesting to its viability and practicality in actual road scenarios. In the proposed case, the simulation results showcase notable achievements, with energy consumption reduced by 0.92% and battery wear minimized to a mere 0.0017%. This research, driven by the pressing issue of urban traffic energy efficiency, not only presents a solution in the form of the M-EAD strategy but also contributes to the fields of sustainable urban mobility and EV performance optimization. By tackling the challenges posed by traffic lights, this work offers valuable insights and practical implications for improving the sustainability and efficiency of urban transportation systems.
Beyond Reputation Management: An Auto-Ethnographic Examination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Canadian Policing
Authors: Ben Romdhane Samar , Babineau Alain
Published: September 2023

Policing organizations play a vital role in increasing diversity and recruiting individuals from diverse backgrounds. However, they face the challenge of reconciling merit-based hiring with the influence of social capital, necessitating a stronger focus on equity policies. This paper delves into this intricate landscape, leveraging both personal experiences and the framework of employment equity laws. It also draws upon insights gleaned from the Sandhu case to advocate for a holistic approach that encompasses cultural and legal changes to combat the issues surrounding “otherness” within policing. Through a comprehensive exploration of these cases, this paper unravels an intricate tapestry of the challenges faced by policing organizations. It provides valuable insights into nurturing diversity, equity, and inclusion within these entities, addressing issues like othering and racial profiling. This paper underscores the vital importance of public security organizations embracing equity, diversity, and inclusion to better fulfill their mission of serving the communities they protect. By adopting these principles, organizations can improve their effectiveness and make substantial contributions to fostering a more equitable society, transcending the confines of mere reputation management.
Midwifery and Medicinal Plants in the Mazahua and Otomi Indigenous Group of the State of Mexico
Authors: Rodríguez-Zúñiga Joel , Ávila-Nájera Dulce María , Mora-Garduño Luz del Carmen , Tovar-Martínez Rocío , Bautista-Santos Horacio , Sánchez-Galván Fabiola
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to analyze midwifery practice in the Mazahua and Otomi (MO) indigenous community and its relationship with the persistence of the native language and the use of medicinal plants. A semi-structured survey with qualitative and quantitative information was designed and validated. Data were collected from the students enrolled in the Intercultural Health Degree at the Intercultural University of the State of Mexico, their parents, their grandparents, and people from their community of the MO ethnic group. The variables mother tongue and births attended by midwives among both MO and non-indigenous people were correlated with three generations (grandparents, parents, and grandchildren). In the MO indigenous group, births attended by midwives and mother tongue concerning the three generations were lost in proportions of 25.5% and 17.05%, respectively. There are 23% more midwife-attended births in the MO community than among non-ethnic people. The medicinal plants most used by the MO indigenous group are “too” (Montanoa tomentosa Cerv.) and “lengua de vaca” (Rumex crispus L.). As regards family economy, 79.3% of the adults surveyed consider that there is a saving of between 25% and 75% with midwifery practice in the MO community. There is a generational correspondence between the loss of native language and midwifery practice.
Consumers’ Perspectives on Circular Economy: Main Tendencies for Market Valorization
Authors: Henriques Rita , Figueiredo Filipa , Nunes João
Published: September 2023

The Circular Economy (CE) concept has acquired a prominent role in both the academic and political fields, accelerated by the realization of a need to change the current pathway of economic development towards a more sustainable one. This transition depends upon a transformation in production and industrial processes, but also in consumption practices. Consumer behaviors and perceptions of circular solutions have been overlooked in the literature and in policy measures, often limited to eco-labelling and information campaigns. This paper argues for a greater definition and centrality of the role of consumption within the CE. Based on a systematic literature review covering the years 2012–2023, the article offers an overview of the main tendencies and challenges of market valorization in the CE, showing a greater concentration of papers at the macro level and micro levels (47% and 35%, respectively) and a lower concentration at the meso level (18%). Results show a steady number of publications regarding consumption in the CE over the years. The mapping of keywords shows greater clustering between terms such as policies, sustainable development and the CE and a lesser focus on the practices that support it. The article concludes that consumption dynamics in the CE must take into account the balance between individual agency, institutional structures, and normative values and develop a paradigm that comprehends sectorial boundaries.
Chitosan-Loaded Copper Oxide Nanoparticles: A Promising Antifungal Nanocomposite against Fusarium Wilt Disease of Tomato Plants
Authors: Mosa Mohamed A. , El-Abeid Sozan E.
Published: September 2023

The extensive use of agrochemicals for crop protection is increasing their environmental risks. Due to the incredible antimicrobial potential of nanomaterials, research into their potential use in sustainable agriculture as alternatives to chemical fungicides is advancing rapidly. In this study, we evaluated the possible antifungal properties of copper oxide nanocomposite (CH@CuO NPs) coated with chitosan in order to fend off Fusarium wilt diseases in tomato plants caused by F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (FOL) throughout in vitro and in vivo experiments. Here, we demonstrate some of the characteristics of a potential antifungal nanocomposite composed of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs), firmly immobilized on chitosan nanoparticle (CH) surfaces as dark spots, with an irregular shape and 54.22 nm in size, as indicated by Transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis. Spectroscopic and microscopic investigations, as well as its antifungal efficacy, verified that the successful synthesis of the CH@CuO NPs at three different concentrations (1, 25, and 50) mg/L against three different wild isolates of the pathogenic Fusarium oxysporum that infect tomatoes was successfully proven to be effective. In vitro comparisons revealed that CH@CuO NPs showed stronger antifungal activity at only 1 mg/L (96.22 ± 1.35) than the classical chemical fungicide “Kocide 2000” at conc. 2.5 g/L (77.34 ± 0.33), for example, in the case of FOL1 isolate. In accordance with the in vivo data, tomato plants can be treated with only 1 mg/L of CH@CuO NPs for up to 75 days, by which time Fusarium wilt disease severity is reduced by 91.5% In contrast, 2.5 g/L of Kocide 2000 is required to reduce disease in tomato plants by about 90%. This research expands our understanding of agro-nanotechnology by outlining the characteristics of a unique, environmentally friendly, and economically viable nanopesticide for long-term plant protection.
Determinants of Smallholder Rice Farmers’ Willingness-to-Pay for Private Extension Services in Liberia: The Case of Gibi District
Authors: Sumo Togba V. , Ritho Cecilia , Irungu Patrick
Published: September 2023

Globally, many policymakers and extension professionals have advocated for the privatization of extension services in order to reduce the burden of funding faced by the state as well as to adequately respond to the low productivity problem of farmers as they endeavor to tackle productivity problems. This study assessed willingness-to-pay (WTP) for private extension services by farmers and identified the determinants of their WTP using Gibi District of Liberia as a case study. A multistage sampling technique was used in selecting 296 smallholder rice farmers in the district while the double-bounded dichotomous choice contingent valuation method was used to elicit maximum WTP value for farmers. Descriptive statistics were computed and the double-bounded logit model used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that 78.7% of the rice farmers were willing to pay for privatized extension services and on average, a farmer was willing to pay US$11.21 per farm visit, almost twice the average daily wage rate of a skilled worker in Liberia. The results from the model showed that WTP was significantly positively influenced by the household head’s age, years of schooling, household size, annual income, and distance to extension service provider. The study recommends that the Liberian government and its development partners should encourage the private sector to invest more in extension services to take advantage of the relatively high farmers’ WTP and effective demand. In addition, the government should design and implement programs that reduce transaction costs in addition to increasing farmers’ income in order to enhance their capacity to pay for privatized extension services.
Natural Nitrogen-Bearing and Phosphorus-Bearing Nanoparticles in Surface Sediments of the Pearl River Estuary, China: Implications for Nitrogen and Phosphorus Cycling in Estuarine and Coastal Ecosystems
Authors: Wang Guoqiang , Yang Tianjian , Zhao Mengmeng , Li Ting , Zhang Cai , Chen Qinghua , Wen Xinyue , Dang Lirong
Published: September 2023

Eutrophication creates multiple environmental problems, threatening the ecological security and sustainability of estuarine and coastal ecosystems worldwide. Key nutrients of concern are nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), which are the main controls in eutrophication. Considering that sediments are inseparable sinks of N and P, concern has grown regarding the forms in which N and P occur in the surface sediments of estuaries and coastal areas. Nonetheless, studies on the natural N-bearing or P-bearing nanoparticles in estuarine and coastal sediments have rarely been reported. Herein, the surface sediments (0–5 cm) of the Pearl River Estuary in China were collected and subjected to analysis. Using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) analysis, numerous natural N-bearing and P-bearing nanoparticles were observed. The results revealed that there are some differences in the occurrence forms of N and P in nanoparticles, suggesting that N and P could be adsorbed by nanoparticles of minerals such as hematite, goethite, muscovite, anorthite and quartz in estuarine and coastal environments, and further form N-bearing and P-bearing nanoparticles. These nanoparticles contained small amounts of N (1.52–3.73 wt%) and P (0.22–1.12 wt%), and were mainly single crystal or polycrystalline in form, with sizes ranging from 10 nm × 50 nm to 250 nm × 400 nm. In addition, P was shown to exist in the form of Ca and Fe phosphate nanoparticles in the estuarine sediments. The Ca and Fe phosphate nanoparticles had higher phosphorus content (5.02–9.97 wt%), mainly amorphous, with sizes ranging from 50 nm × 120 nm to 250 nm × 400 nm. Moreover, N-bearing and P-bearing nanoparticles could influence the migration, precipitation and release processes of N and P, and play a certain role in the N-cycling and P-cycling of estuarine and coastal ecosystems. Furthermore, we explored the role of N-bearing and P-bearing nanoparticles in the N-cycling and P-cycling in estuarine and coastal ecosystems. Thus, this study could provide new ideas for water environment management and other related research fields.
Biomaterials and Regenerative Agriculture: A Methodological Framework to Enable Circular Transitions
Authors: Stathatou Patritsia Maria , Corbin Liz , Meredith J. Carson , Garmulewicz Alysia
Published: September 2023

Biomaterials, used here to signify 100% biobased and biodegradable materials, can offer a promising solution for transitioning away from fossil-based resources, addressing the climate crisis, and combating plastic pollution. To ensure their environmental benefits, biomaterials must derive from regenerative, non-polluting feedstocks that do not compete with food or feed production. From this perspective, agricultural residues and by-products present a favorable feedstock option for biomaterials production. Although this is an improvement over sourcing them from primary crops, the sustainability of underlying agricultural systems must be considered. Furthermore, the nutrient value of biomaterials for specific soil ecosystems is often overlooked despite their compostability. In this research, we investigate the linkages between biomaterials development and regenerative agriculture, a set of farming practices that can effectively sustain the growing human population while enhancing, rather than degrading, ecosystem health. We explore interdependencies between biomaterials’ production and regenerative agriculture for biomass sourcing and nutrient return and suggest a methodological framework to identify mutual benefits. The extent to which regenerative farms can provide biomaterial feedstocks without compromising crop cultivation and ecosystem health is analyzed together with the potential of biomaterials to deliver beneficial nutrients and services to regenerative systems. Applying this framework to the Great Lakes Region, Michigan, USA, an agricultural hub facing environmental degradation and plastic pollution, reveals synergistic linkages that unlock novel circular economy opportunities, including local production of renewable biomaterials for various applications, enhancing food security and bolstering socio-ecological systems.
Renewable Energy and Sustainable Agriculture: Review of Indicators
Authors: Bathaei Ahmad , Štreimikienė Dalia
Published: September 2023

Sustainable agriculture strives to ensure future food and energy supply while safeguarding natural resources. The interpretation of sustainability varies by context and country, yielding distinct indicators. Researchers have studied sustainable agriculture for the past 25 years and have developed several indicators. Renewable energy holds a vital role in sustainable agriculture, aiding energy needs and mitigating environmental harm tied to agriculture. It curbs fossil fuel dependency and harnesses agricultural waste for energy. However, a consistent update of renewable energy indicators for agricultural sustainability is needed. Employing SALSA (Search, Appraisal, Synthesis, and Analysis) and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodologies within the PRISMA protocol, this study extracts 84 indicators from 420 papers via SCOPUS. These indicators span social, environmental, economic, institutional, and technical dimensions. The study refines these indicators based on significance and influence, offering an enriched perspective. Furthermore, the analysis categorizes papers by publication year, continent, and topic, providing insights for stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers. By ensuring periodic indicator updates, this research promotes sustainable agriculture, informs priority areas, and guides strategic decisions. This contributes to global resilience and food security aspirations in a changing world. The future of renewable energy and sustainable agriculture will involve cutting-edge technologies, refined policy frameworks, and inclusive cross-sector collaboration to address pressing global challenges and create a greener, more resilient world.
Environmental Protection and Economic Development: Research Progress of Eco-Efficiency
Authors: Fukuyama Hirofumi , Tan Yong
Published: September 2023

This Special Issue (Environmental Protection and Economic Development: Research Progress of Eco-Efficiency) explores environmental conservation and the ongoing progress in economic research, particularly productive efficiency, commonly referred to as eco-efficiency or environmental efficiency [...]
Analysis of Surface Settlement Induced by Shield Tunnelling: Grey Relational Analysis and Numerical Simulation Study on Critical Construction Parameters
Authors: Luo Minhe , Wang Ding , Wang Xuchun , Lu Zelin
Published: September 2023

Excessive surface settlement poses significant challenges to shield tunnelling construction, resulting in damage to adjacent buildings, infrastructure, and underground pipelines. This study focused on investigating the surface settlement induced by shield tunnelling during the construction of Qingdao Metro Line 6 between Haigang Road Station and Chaoyang Road Station. Firstly, the settlement data from the left line of the shield tunnel were evaluated by grey relational analysis. The relational coefficients were calculated to assess the correlation degrees of each influential parameter. Subsequently, the four critical influential parameters with the highest relational degrees were chosen to investigate their effects on surface settlement through numerical simulations under different scenarios. The results show that the four parameters with the highest relational degrees were thrust, grouting pressure, earth pressure, and strata elastic modulus. It should be noted that the strata elastic modulus significantly affects surface settlement, while the grouting pressure influences the settlement trough width in weak strata. Moreover, improper thrust magnitude can lead to an increase in surface settlement. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed for the right-line tunnel construction and practical countermeasures for surface settlement during shield tunnelling construction are provided.
Risk Decision for a Port Shore Power Supply System Based on Cumulative Prospect Theory and an Improved Gray Target
Authors: Ding Chaojun , Liu Tianshou
Published: September 2023

Considering carbon neutral development strategies, ecological ports and green growth concepts have become the future development trend of ports. As an important technology for green port construction, the stable operation of port shore power systems is particularly important. However, as a new field of transmission system, the development of port shore power is also facing many new risks and challenges. For example, the shore power system has security risks as well as technical and economic difficulties. There are also problems such as the lack of regulations on shore power systems. To ensure the safe and stable operation of a port grid system, this paper proposes a risk decision method for a transmission system in a market environment based on interval number and cumulative prospect theory. Based on the constructed risk evaluation index system of a port shore power supply system, a risk decision model based on cumulative prospect theory and an improved gray target risk model (CPT-IGT) are constructed considering the uncertainty and ambiguity of the index attributes and weight information as well as the risk attitude held by decision-makers; these models are developed with improved interval gray number and cumulative prospect theory. Finally, a case study applied to the risk decision of a port shore power supply system verified the reasonableness and effectiveness of the method. The results show that the proposed method has some advantages in dealing with language terms, representing language uncertainty, and reflecting risk decisions in different environments. The research can provide a theoretical basis for the risk assessment of a port power system in the future and provide suggestions for the green growth of the port.
SPOT: A Strategic Life-Cycle-Assessment-Based Methodology and Tool for Cosmetic Product Eco-Design
Authors: L’Haridon Jacques , Patouillard Laure , Pedneault Julien , Boulay Anne-Marie , Witte François , Vargas-Gonzalez Marcial , Bonningue Philippe , Rollat Isabelle , Blanchard Thierry , Goncalves Gabriel , Hervio Alice , Gilbert Laurent
Published: September 2023

The cosmetics industry is facing growing pressure to offer more sustainable products, which can be tackled by applying eco-design. This article aims to present the Sustainable Product Optimization Tool (SPOT) methodology developed by L’Oréal to eco-design its cosmetic products and the strategies adopted for its implementation while presenting the challenges encountered along the way. The SPOT methodology is based on the life cycle assessment (LCA) of a finished product and its subsystems (formula, packaging, manufacturing and distribution). Several environmental indicators are assessed, normalized and weighted based on the planetary boundaries concept, and then aggregated into a single footprint. A product sustainability index (a single rating, easy to interpret) is then obtained by merging the environmental product rating derived from the single environmental footprint with the social rating (not covered here). The use of the SPOT method is shown by two case studies. The implementation of SPOT, based on specific strategic and managerial measures (corporate and brand targets, Key Performance Indicators, and financial incentives) is discussed. These measures have enabled L’Oréal to have 97% of their products stated as eco-designed in 2022. SPOT shows how eco-design can be implemented on a large scale without compromising scientific robustness. Eco-design tools must strike the right balance between the complexity of the LCA and the ease of interpretation of the results, and have a robust implementation plan to ensure a successful eco-design strategy.
Effect of Adding Cu2O as a Back Surface Field Layer on the Performance of Copper Manganese Tin Sulfide Solar Cells
Authors: Henni Wafaâ , Rahal Wassila Leïla , Toki G. F. Ishraque , Mohammed Mustafa K. A. , Farhat Lamia Ben , Ezzine Safa , Pandey Rahul , Boukortt Abdelkader , Hossain M. Khalid
Published: September 2023

One of the major limitations causing deadlock in solar cells with higher sulfur content in the photovoltaic absorber material is the unintended formation of an uncontrollable MoS2 layer between the absorber material and Mo back contact, which can affect negatively the efficiency of solar cells. Researchers reported that it is very difficult to control the MoS2 properties such as the conductivity type, thickness, band gap, and carrier concentration in experiments. Considering these challenges, an initial step involved a thorough examination utilizing the one-dimensional solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS-1D) to assess the impact of n-MoS2 interlayer thickness and donor concentration on the performance of CMTS solar cells. Our investigation revealed the formation of a “cliff-like CBO” at the CMTS/n-MoS2 interface, facilitating the transport of electrons from the p-CMTS absorber to the Mo back contact, resulting in a significantly higher recombination rate. Subsequently, herein a novel approach is proposed, using Cu2O as a back surface field (BSF) layer due to its low cost, intrinsic p-type properties, and non-toxic nature. Simulation results of a novel heterostructure (Mo/Cu2O/CMTS/CdS/i-ZnO/AZO/Al) of the CMTS-based solar cell are discussed in terms of recombination rate and conduction band alignment at the absorber/BSF interface. A desired “spike-like CBO” is formed between CMTS/Cu2O, which hinders the transport of electrons to the back contact. By optimizing the physical parameters such as thickness and the doping density of the Cu2O layer, an efficiency η of 21.78% is achieved, with an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.26 V, short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 24.45 mA/cm², and fill factor (FF) of 70.85%. Our simulation results offer a promising research direction to further develop highly efficient and low-cost CMTS solar cells.
PVNet: A Used Vehicle Pedestrian Detection Tracking and Counting Method
Authors: Xie Haitao , Xiao Zerui , Liu Wei , Ye Zhiwei
Published: September 2023

Advances in technology have made people’s lives more prosperous. However, the increase in the number of cars and the emergence of autonomous driving technology have led to frequent road accidents. Manual observation of traffic conditions requires high labor intensity, low work efficiency, and poses safety risks. The paper proposes a deep learning-based pedestrian-vehicle detection model to replace manual observation, overcoming human resource limitations and safety concerns. The model optimizes the darknet53 backbone feature extraction network, reducing parameters and improving feature extraction capabilities, making it more suitable for pedestrian-vehicle scenarios. In addition, the PVFPN multi-scale feature fusion method is used to facilitate information exchange between different feature layers. Finally, the Bytetrack method is used for target counting and tracking. The paper model shows excellent performance in pedestrian-vehicle detection and tracking in traffic scenarios. The experimental results show that the improved model achieves a mAP@.5 of 0.952 with only 32% of the parameters compared to YOLOv8s. Furthermore, the proposed PVNet model, combined with the Bytetrack method, maintains high detection accuracy and is applicable to pedestrian-vehicle detection and tracking in traffic scenarios. In summary, this section discusses the traffic issues arising from technological development and presents the optimization and performance of the deep learning-based pedestrian-vehicle detection model, along with its potential applications in traffic scenarios.
Mitigating the Impact of Work Overload on Cybersecurity Behavior: The Moderating Influence of Corporate Ethics—A Mediated Moderation Analysis
Authors: Hong Yunsook , Kim Min-Jik , Roh Taewoo
Published: September 2023

This present study examines how work overload affects cybersecurity behavior, considering job stress as a mediator and corporate ethics as a moderator. Using a time-lagged survey design, 377 South Korean employees were surveyed. The results of SEM analysis (structural equation model) show that work overload leads to higher job stress, which in turn worsens cybersecurity behavior. High levels of corporate ethics buffer this negative relationship. This research fill gaps in the existing literature by linking work overload, job stress, and corporate ethics to cybersecurity behavior, offering valuable insights for both theory and practice. Future research directions are also discussed.
Impacts of Polylactic Acid Microplastics on Performance and Microbial Dynamics in Activated Sludge System
Authors: Huang Mengbo , Wang Dongqi , Zhang Shengwei , Weng Yuzhu , Li Kailong , Huang Renjie , Guo Yuan , Jiang Chunbo , Wang Zhe , Wang Hui , Meng Haiyu , Lin Yishan , Fang Mingliang , Li Jiake
Published: September 2023

A large number of microplastics (MPs) have been found in various stages of wastewater treatment plants, which may affect the functional microbial activity in activated sludge and lead to unstable pollutant removal performance. In this study, the effects of different concentrations of polylactic acid microplastics (PLA MPs) on system performance, nitrification and phosphorus (P) removal activities, and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) were evaluated. The results showed that under the same influent conditions, low concentrations (50 particles/(g TS)) of PLA MPs had no significant effect on effluent quality. The average removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand, phosphate, and ammonia were all above 80%, and the average removal efficiencies of total nitrogen remained above 70%. High concentrations (200 particles/(g TS)) of PLA MPs inhibited the activities of polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs) and nitrifying bacteria. The specific anaerobic P release rate decreased from 37.7 to 23.1 mg P/(g VSS·h), and the specific aerobic P uptake rate also significantly decreased. The specific ammonia oxidation rate decreased from 0.67 to 0.34 mg N/(g VSS·h), while the change in the specific nitrite oxidation rate was not significant. The dosing of PLA MPs decreased the total EPS and humic acid content. As the concentration of PLA MPs increased, microbial community diversity increased. The relative abundance of potential PAOs (i.e., Acinetobacter) increased from 0.08 to 12.57%, while the relative abundance of glycogen-accumulating organisms (i.e., Competibacter and Defluviicoccus) showed no significant changes, which would lead to improved P removal performance. The relative abundance of denitrifying bacteria (i.e., Pseudomonas) decreased from 95.43 to 58.98%, potentially contributing to the decline in denitrification performance.
Effect of Biochar Application and Mineral Fertilization on Biomass Production and Structural Carbohydrate Content in Forage Plant Mixture
Authors: Stopa Wojciech , Wróbel Barbara , Paszkiewicz-Jasińska Anna , Strzelczyk Maria
Published: September 2023

Biochar, a fine-grained porous material, exhibits properties that improve soil quality on agricultural land. Biochar, in combination with mineral fertilizers in perennial mixed crops, has so far not been studied for its effect on biomass production and feed value. The study, conducted in 2021 and 2022, aims to investigate the impact of different biochar application rates (alone and in combination with high and low NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) fertilizer dosages) on the yield and structural carbohydrate content in grass–legume mixtures. Thus, a two-factorial pot study consisting of 36 pots was established in 2021. The study was set up in a randomized block design with nine fertilization treatments in four replicates. The factors studied were the rate of biochar (0, 5, and 10 Mg ha−1) and the rate of NPK mineral fertilizer application (0, 105, and 185 kg ha−1). First, biochar was applied and then the grass–legume mixture was sown, consisting of Lolium perenne L., Festuca arundinacea Schreb., Dectylis glomerata L., Lolium multiflorum Lam., Phleum pratense L., Festuca rubra L., Festuca ovina L., Poa pratensis L., Trifolium repens L., and Medicago sativa L. In both years of the study, during the growing season, plant biomass was harvested three times to assess biomass production and structural carbohydrate content. In the collected samples, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and acid detergent lignin (ADL) were examined, and, based on these, dry matter digestibility (DDM), dry matter intake (DMI), and relative feed value (RFV) were calculated. Compared to the control, the biochar addition increased the biomass production by 6.7–14.4% in the first year and by 49–59% in the second year after application. The addition of biochar in combination with NPK fertilization caused an increase in biomass production—22–45% in the first year and 71–136% in the second year after application. The structural carbohydrate content in the mixture depended neither on the biochar dose nor on fertilization. On the other hand, the most significant differences for the studied parameters were observed due to different harvest dates.
Safety and Nutritional Risks Associated with Plant-Based Meat Alternatives
Authors: Bogueva Diana , McClements David Julian
Published: September 2023

The market for plant-based meat alternatives is growing to meet consumer demands for a more sustainable, ethical, and healthy diet, as well as to address global food security issues linked to an increasing global population and climate change. Increased consumption of plant-based meat products raises questions about potential food safety risks, including concerns about allergenicity, toxicity, foodborne pathogens, and adequate nutritional composition. From a public health perspective, there has been limited research on the nutritional and health aspects of plant-based meat products, and studies of potential food safety risks of these novel protein sources are not well documented. Much of the research on the nutrition and safety of these foods has been commissioned or funded by companies developing these products, or by other organizations promoting them. This article reviews the existing literature and analyses the potential food safety and health risks associated with plant-based meat products, including nutritional, chemical, microbiological, and allergen concerns. This review has revealed several research gaps that merit further exploration to inform the conversation around the future development and commercialization of plant-based meat substitutes. Further research, technological advancements, food standards, and risk assessment and a multidisciplinary approach are essential to address safety concerns and facilitate the responsible use of new-generation plant-based meat alternatives, particularly for emerging foods with limited knowledge of their risks and benefits.
Non-Contact Impact Source Localization in Composite Symmetry Panels Based on A0 Mode of Lamb Waves
Authors: Wang Ziping , Zhang Jiazhen , Cui Hangrui , Gorgin Rahim , Zhang Yang
Published: September 2023

Traditional methods for detecting damage in engineering structures often use offline static damage detection. To enable the real-time and precise identification of dynamic damage while maintaining symmetry in engineering structures, this study primarily concentrates on isotropic plate structures widely employed in engineering. Moreover, fiberglass board composite plates were opted as a specific research object. By utilizing the weak S0 mode signals generated by low-frequency ultrasonic Lamb waves, the non-stationary A0 wave signals in the composite symmetry plate structure are collected using the non-contact SLDV (Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer) technique. The frequency characteristic parameters in the vibration signals are obtained through HHT (Hilbert–Huang Transform) analysis, followed by filtering and noise reduction. Finally, the circular trajectory intersection method is employed to accurately locate dynamic damage sources in plate structures with different material properties, thereby validating the positioning effect of contact sensors in detecting impacts caused by random impulses.
Analysis of Coefficient-Related Problems for Starlike Functions with Symmetric Points Connected with a Three-Leaf-Shaped Domain
Authors: Tang Huo , Arif Muhammad , Abbas Muhammad , Tawfiq Ferdous M. O. , Malik Sarfraz Nawaz
Published: September 2023

The basic aspect of the research on coefficient problems for numerous families of univalent functions is to describe the coefficients of functions in a specific family by the coefficients of the Carathéodory functions. Thus, in utilizing the inequalities that are known for the class of Carathéodory functions, coefficient functionals may be examined. Several coefficient problems will be addressed in this study by utilizing the methodology for the abovementioned functions’ family. The family of starlike functions with respect to symmetric points connected to a three-leaf-shaped image domain is the topic of our investigation.
Hierarchical Coordinated Energy Management Strategy for Hybrid Energy Storage System in Electric Vehicles Considering the Battery’s SOC
Authors: Huang Wenya , Lu Zhangyu , Cao Xu , Hou Yingjun
Published: September 2023

This paper combines two types of energy storage components, the battery and supercapacitor (SC), to form a fully active hybrid energy storage system (HESS) as a power source for electric vehicles (EVs). At the same time, a hierarchical coordinated energy management strategy based on model predictive control (HCEMS-MPC) is presented. Firstly, the mathematical model of the fully active HESS is obtained based on Kirchhoff’s law and state-space modeling technology. Secondly, considering the state of charge (SOC) of the battery, a fuzzy-control-based upper-level energy management strategy (EMS) is proposed to optimize power allocation and to generate a reference current for a lower-level current controller. Then, a lower-level current predictive controller is designed to achieve accurate current tracking. Finally, a lower-level voltage sliding mode controller is designed to stabilize the bus voltage. Compared with previous works, the HCEMS-MPC strategy only needs to adjust the weight matrix and the reaching term to avoid the problem of excessive controller parameters. The simulation results, under different driving conditions, show that the HCEMS-MPC strategy has a better performance with respect to its fast response, error reduction, and robust stability. In addition, the SOC of the battery decreases more slowly, and the final SOC value significantly increases, thereby extending the single-discharge cycle time of the battery and improving the service life of the battery.
Unraveling Immunological Dynamics: HPV Infection in Women—Insights from Pregnancy
Authors: Condrat Carmen Elena , Cretoiu Dragos , Radoi Viorica Elena , Mihele Dana Mihaela , Tovaru Mihaela , Bordea Cristian Ioan , Voinea Silviu Cristian , Suciu Nicolae
Published: September 2023

During pregnancy, hormonal and immune adaptations are vital for supporting the genetically distinct fetus during elevated infection risks. The global prevalence of HPV necessitates its consideration during pregnancy. Despite a seemingly mild immune response, historical gestational viral infections underscore its significance. Acknowledging the established HPV infection risks during pregnancy, our review explores the unfolding immunological changes in pregnant women with HPV. Our analysis aims to uncover strategies for safely modulating the immune system, mitigating adverse pregnancy consequences, and enhancing maternal and child health. This comprehensive narrative review delves into the existing knowledge and studies on this topic.
A Bioreactor-Based Yellow Fever Virus-like Particle Production Process with Integrated Process Analytical Technology Based on Transient Transfection
Authors: Dekevic Gregor , Tertel Tobias , Tasto Lars , Schmidt Deborah , Giebel Bernd , Czermak Peter , Salzig Denise
Published: September 2023

Yellow Fever (YF) is a severe disease that, while preventable through vaccination, lacks rapid intervention options for those already infected. There is an urgent need for passive immunization techniques using YF-virus-like particles (YF-VLPs). To address this, we successfully established a bioreactor-based production process for YF-VLPs, leveraging transient transfection and integrating Process Analytical Technology. A cornerstone of this approach was the optimization of plasmid DNA (pDNA) production to a yield of 11 mg/L using design of experiments. Glucose, NaCl, yeast extract, and a phosphate buffer showed significant influence on specific pDNA yield. The preliminary work for VLP-production in bioreactor showed adjustments to the HEK cell density, the polyplex formation duration, and medium exchanges effectively elevated transfection efficiencies. The additive Pluronic F-68 was neutral in its effects, and anti-clumping agents (ACA) adversely affected the transfection process. Finally, we established the stirred-tank bioreactor process with integrated dielectric spectroscopy, which gave real-time insight in relevant process steps, e.g., cell growth, polyplex uptake, and harvest time. We confirmed the presence and integrity of YF-VLP via Western blot, imaging flow cytometry measurement, and transmission electron microscopy. The YF-VLP production process can serve as a platform to produce VLPs as passive immunizing agents against other neglected tropical diseases.
Temporal Analysis of COVID-19 Epidemiological Indicators in a Low-Income Brazilian Context: A Retrospective Analysis in Paraiba State
Authors: da Silva Fabiola Ferreira , de Abreu Luiz Carlos , Daboin Blanca Elena Guerrero , Morais Tassiane Cristina , Cavalcanti Matheus Paiva Emidio , Bezerra Italla Maria Pinheiro , da Silva Célia Guarnieri , Figueira Fernando Augusto Marinho dos Santos , de Caldas Guedes Viviane Valeria , Perez Riera Andres Ricardo
Published: September 2023

Northeast Brazil is a region with great international tourist potential. Among the states that make up this region, Paraíba stands out due to the presence of vulnerable groups and factors that contribute to adverse outcomes of COVID-19. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the epidemiological data on the incidence, mortality, and case fatality of COVID-19 in Paraíba. An ecological, population-based study was performed, with data extracted from the Brazilian Ministry of Health database. All cases and deaths from COVID-19 from March 2020 to December 2022 were included. The time series was built by applying the Prais–Winsten regression model, and the daily percent change was calculated to analyze the trends. The highest case fatality of the entire period was in April 2020 (7.8%), but in March 2021, the state broke the dismal record of 1248 deaths and the highest mortality rate (30.5 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants). Stationary mortality and case fatality were better in 2022; however, in February 2022, the mortality rate was at levels similar to the same month of the previous year. These results illustrate that COVID-19 is evolving and needs to be constantly monitored.