bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aristolochia clematitis L. Ethanolic Extracts: In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity and Cytotoxicity on Caco-2 Cell Line
Authors: Pricop Maria-Alexandra , Lukinich-Gruia Alexandra Teodora , Cristea Iustina-Mirabela , Păunescu Virgil , Tatu Călin Adrian
Published: October 2024

Aristolochia sp. plants are used in traditional medicine because of their immunostimulatory and anticarcinogenic properties, despite their content of aristolochic acids (AAs), carcinogenic and nephrotoxic agents. Therefore, ethanolic extracts of Aristolochia clematitis leaves, a specie growing in Western Romania, were obtained to study antioxidant and cytotoxic effects. The antioxidant capacity of the extract was evaluated by five in vitro chemical-based assays, proving that ABTS assay was a better method for this type of evaluation showing an IC50 of 160.89 ± 0.21 µg/mL. Furthermore, the cytotoxic effects of the extract were established by an IC50 of 216 µg/mL for 24 h by MTT assay, followed by a cell-based assay on Caco-2 cells by the ABTS method. The antioxidant effects of the A. clematitis extract demonstrate potential therapeutic applications in complementary medicine.
Ultra-Thin Highly Sensitive Electronic Skin for Temperature Monitoring
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Meng Yuan , Ning Jin , Wang Peike , Ye Yang , Luo Jingjing , Yin Ao , Ren Zhongqi , Liu Haipeng , Qi Xue , He Sisi , Yu Suzhu , Wei Jun
Published: October 2024

Electronic skin capable of reliable monitoring of human skin temperature is crucial for the advancement of non-invasive clinical biomonitoring, disease diagnosis, and health surveillance. Ultra-thin temperature sensors, with excellent mechanical flexibility and robustness, can conformably adhere to uneven skin surfaces, making them ideal candidates. However, achieving high sensitivity often demands sacrificing flexibility, rendering the development of temperature sensors combining both qualities a challenging task. In this study, we utilized a low-cost drop-casting technique to print ultra-thin and lightweight (thickness: approximately 3 µm, weight: 0.61 mg) temperature sensors based on a combination of vanadium dioxide and PEDOT:PSS at room temperature and atmospheric conditions. These sensors exhibit high sensitivity (temperature coefficient of resistance: −5.11%/°C), rapid response and recovery times (0.36 s), and high-temperature accuracy (0.031 °C). Furthermore, they showcased remarkable durability in extreme bending conditions (bending radius = 400 µm), along with stable electrical performance over approximately 2400 bending cycles. This work offers a low-cost, simple, and scalable method for manufacturing ultra-thin and lightweight electronic skins for temperature monitoring, which seamlessly integrate exceptional temperature-measuring capabilities with optimal flexibility.
Optimal Conversion of Food Packaging Waste to Liquid Fuel via Nonthermal Plasma Treatment: A Model-Centric Approach
Authors: Khan Mohammad Jakir Hossain , Kryzevicius Zilvinas , Senulis Audrius , Zukauskaite Audrone , Rapalis Paulius , Uebe Jochen
Published: October 2024

The efficiency of employing a multifactorial approach to enhance the nonthermal plasma (NTP) chemical conversion of solid waste food packaging materials into liquid petroleum hydrocarbons was assessed for the first time in this study. The researchers adopted a hybrid approach which integrated the zero-dimensional (0-D) and response surface model (RSM) techniques. After their application, the researchers noted that these strategies significantly enhanced the model prediction owing to their accurate electrochemical description. Here, the researchers solved a set of equations to identify the optimisation dynamics. They also established experimental circumstances to determine the quantitative correlation among all process variables contributing to food plastic packaging waste degradation and the production of liquid fuels. The findings of the study indicate a good agreement between the numerical and experimental values. It was also noted that the electrical variables of NTP significantly influenced the conversion yield (Yconv%) of solid plastic packaging waste to liquid hydrocarbons. Similarly, after analysing the data, it was seen that factors like the power discharge rate (x1 ), discharge interval (x2), power frequency (x3), and power intensity (x4) could significantly affect the product yield. After optimizing the variables, the researchers observed a maximal Yconv% of approximately 86%. The findings revealed that the proposed framework could effectively scale up the plasma synergistic pyrolysis technology for obtaining the highest Yconv% of solid packaging plastic wastes to produce an aromatics-enriched oil. The researchers subsequently employed the precision of the constructed framework to upgrade the laboratory-scale procedures to industrial-scale processes, which showed more than 95% efficiency. The extracted oil showed a calorific value of 43,570.5 J/g, indicating that the liquid hydrocarbons exhibited properties similar to commercial diesel.
The Fabrication of Polyimide-Based Tunable Charge Traps Ternary Memristors Doped with Ni-Co Coated Carbon Composite Nanofibers
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Liu Liyuan , Zhao He , Yin Jinghua
Published: October 2024

In the dynamic fields of information science and electronic technology, there is a notable trend towards leveraging carbon materials, favored for their ease of synthesis, biocompatibility, and abundance. This trend is particularly evident in the development of memristors, benefiting from the unique electronic properties of carbon to enhance device performance. This study utilizes sensitized chemical evaporation and spin-coating carbonization techniques to fabricate nickel-cobalt coated carbon composite nanofibers (SC-NCMNTs). Novel polyimide (PI) matrix composite memory devices were fabricated using in situ polymerization technology. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and micro-Raman spectroscopy analyses validated the presence of dual interface structures located between the Ni-Co-MWNTs, carbon composite nanofibers, and PI matrix, revealing a significant number of defects within the SC-NCMNTs/PI composite films. Consequently, this results in a tunable charge trap-based ternary resistive switching behavior of the composite memory devices, exhibiting a high ON/OFF current ratio of 104 and a retention time of 2500 s at an operating voltage of less than 3 V. The mechanism of resistive switching is thoroughly elucidated through a comprehensive charge transport model, incorporating molecular orbital energy levels. This study provides valuable insights for the rational design and fabrication of efficient memristors characterized by multilevel resistive switching states.
Material Aspects of Thin-Film Composite Membranes for CO2/N2 Separation: Metal–Organic Frameworks vs. Graphene Oxides vs. Ionic Liquids
Authors: Oh Na Yeong , Lee So Youn , Lee Jiwon , Min Hyo Jun , Hosseini Seyed Saeid , Patel Rajkumar , Kim Jong Hak
Published: October 2024

Thin-film composite (TFC) membranes containing various fillers and additives present an effective alternative to conventional dense polymer membranes, which often suffer from low permeance (flux) and the permeability–selectivity tradeoff. Alongside the development and utilization of numerous new polymers over the past few decades, diverse additives such as metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), graphene oxides (GOs), and ionic liquids (ILs) have been integrated into the polymer matrix to enhance performance. However, achieving desirable interfacial compatibility between these additives and the host polymer matrix, particularly in TFC structures, remains a significant challenge. This review discusses recent advancements in TFC membranes for CO2/N2 separation, focusing on material structure, polymer–additive interaction, interface and separation properties. Specifically, we examine membranes operating under dry conditions to clearly assess the impact of additives on membrane properties and performance. Additionally, we provide a perspective on future research directions for designing high-performance membrane materials.
Computational Analysis of the Micromechanical Stress Field in Undamaged and Damaged Unidirectional Fiber-Reinforced Plastics Using a Modified Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Lopez Nicolas Rozo , Çelik Hakan , Hopmann Christian
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the internal stress distribution of unidirectional fiber-reinforced plastics (UD-FRP) at the micro level using principal component analysis (PCA). The composite material was simulated using a representative volume element model together with the embedded cell approach. Two fundamental quasi-static load cases, transverse and longitudinal tensile deformation, were considered. The experimental results show that mechanical failure occurred at 2.15 ± 0.06% transverse tensile strain and at 1.52 ± 0.07% longitudinal tensile strain. Furthermore, the undamaged state and a combination of matrix and interface damage, as well as fiber breakage, were simulated. From the simulations, the octahedral shear stress and octahedral normal stress were computed at the integration points of the matrix elements, constituting what is known as the octahedral stress field. A modification on the PCA to obtain mesh-independent eigenvalues is presented and was used to investigate the effects of damage events on the octahedral stress field. The results indicate that each damage mechanism had a distinct signature in the redistribution of the stress field, characterized by specific changes in the eigenvalues and orientation of the principal component (θ1). Furthermore, the PCA suggests that the accumulation of matrix damage began to be relevant at the 1% strain, while fiber breakage began at an average longitudinal strain of 0.98 ± 0.12%. Additionally, it is shown that the first principal component served as an indicator of the predominant stress state of the stress field. This investigation suggests that the PCA can provide valuable insights regarding the complex damage mechanisms of UD-FRP that may not be captured by conventional mechanical analysis.
Closed-Loop Recycling of 3D-Printed Wood–PLA Composite Parts: Effects on Mechanical and Structural Properties via Fused Filament Fabrication
Authors: Chien Yu-Chen , Wu Jyh-Horng , Shu Chiao-Hsuan , Lo Jung-Tien , Yang Teng-Chun
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the closed-loop recycling of 3D-printed wood fiber (WF)-filled polylactic acid (PLA) composites via fused filament fabrication (FFF). The WF–PLA composites (WPCs) were extruded into WPC filaments (WPCfs) to produce FFF-printed WPC parts (WPCps). The printed WPCps were reprocessed three times via extrusion and 3D-printing processes. The tensile properties and impact strengths of the WPCfs and WPCps were determined. To further investigate the impact of closed-loop recycling on the surface morphology, crystallinity, and molecular weight of WPCfs, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC), respectively, were used. After closed-loop recycling, the surface morphology of the WPCfs became smoother, and a decrease in the pore sizes was observed; however, the tensile properties (tensile strength and elongation at break) deteriorated. With increasing numbers of recycling iterations, the molecular weight of the PLA matrix decreased, while an increase in crystallinity was observed due to the recrystallization of the low-molecular-weight PLA molecules after recycling. According to the SEM images of the recycled WPCps, their layer heights were inconsistent, and the layers were rough and discontinuous. Additionally, the color difference (ΔE*) of the recycled WPCps significantly increased. Compared with those of the WPCps after recycling them only once, the tensile strength, elongation at break, and impact strength of the WPCps noticeably decreased after recycling them twice. Considering the changes in various properties of the WPCfs and WPCps, the FFF-printed WPC parts can be reprocessed only once through 3D printing.
Review of Research Progress on Acoustic Test Equipment for Hydrate-Bearing Sediments
Authors: Sun Shihui , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhou Yunjian
Published: October 2024

When acoustic waves propagate through hydrate samples, they carry extensive information related to their physical and mechanical properties. These details are comprehensively reflected in acoustic parameters such as velocity, attenuation coefficient, waveform, frequency, spectrum, and amplitude variations. Based on these parameters, it is possible to invert the physical and mechanical indicators and microstructural characteristics of hydrate samples, thereby addressing a series of issues in hydrate development engineering. This study first provides an overview of the current applications and prospects of acoustic testing in hydrate development. Subsequently, it systematically elaborates on the progress in research on acoustic testing systems for hydrate samples, including the principles of acoustic testing, ship-borne hydrate core acoustic detection systems, laboratory hydrate sample acoustic testing systems, and resonance column experimental systems. Based on this foundation, this study further discusses the development trends and challenges of acoustic testing equipment for hydrate-bearing sediments.
Synthesis of Ecofriendly Bimetallic Pt/Ni Nanoparticles on KNbO3 via Hydrothermal Process for Sustainable Hydrogen Evolution from NaBH4
Authors: dos Reis Tulho Martins , Alves Aléxia Caroline de Castro , da Silva Victor Nogueira , Siqueira Guilherme Oliveira , de Andrade Fabrício Vieira , de Lima Geraldo Magela , Moreira Renata Pereira Lopes
Published: October 2024

The performance of nickel and platinum bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) supported on potassium niobate (KNbO3) is evaluated in the catalytic hydrolysis of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) to generate hydrogen (H2). KNbO3 was synthesized via a hydrothermal route using Nb2O5 and KOH as precursors. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the crystalline orthorhombic structure of KNbO3. The Ni/Pt NPs, with an average size of 4.66 nm and a spherical morphology, were uniformly dispersed on the surface of KNbO3 nanosheets. The N2 physisorption isotherms of KNbO3 and Ni/Pt NPs were classified as type V with H3 hysteresis, showing specific surface areas of 0.170 and 2.87 m2 g−1, respectively. Catalytic performance studies examined various Ni/Pt molar ratios, with the 1:3 ratio (mol/mol) demonstrating the highest efficiency. Kinetic analysis of NaBH4 hydrolysis showed that the data fit the pseudo-first-order model. An increase in temperature enhanced the hydrogen generation rate (HGR), reaching 2068.3 mL gcat−1 min−1 at 315.05 K. The apparent activation energy (Ea) was determined to be 29.9 kJ mol−1. Durability assays showed only an 11% decrease in activity after 11 catalytic cycles. Thus, a promising, easy-to-synthesize, and environmentally friendly catalyst for NaBH4 hydrolysis has been developed.
Hamamelitannin’s Antioxidant Effect and Its Inhibition Capability on α-Glycosidase, Carbonic Anhydrase, Acetylcholinesterase, and Butyrylcholinesterase Enzymes
Authors: Durmaz Lokman , Karageçili Hasan , Erturk Adem , Ozden Eda Mehtap , Taslimi Parham , Alwasel Saleh , Gülçin İlhami
Published: October 2024

Hamamelitannin (2′,5-di-O-galloyl-hamamelose) bears two-gallate moieties in its structure, and is a natural phenolic product in the leaves and the bark of Hamamelis virginiana. The antioxidant capacity of hamamelitannin was evaluated by a range of methods, with the following findings: the ability to reduce potassium ferric cyanide; the scavenging of N,N-dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine dihydrochloride radical (DMPD•+); the scavenging of 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate) radical (ABTS•+); the scavenging of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•); and the ability to reduce cupric ions (Cu2+). Additionally, reference antioxidants of α-Tocopherol, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), Trolox, and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) were used for comparison. For DPPH radical scavenging, hamamelitannin had an IC50 value of 19.31 μg/mL, while the IC50 values for BHA, BHT, Trolox, and α-Tocopherol were 10.10, 25.95, 7.05, and 11.31 μg/mL, respectively. The study found that hamamelitannin functioned similarly to BHA, α-tocopherol, and Trolox in terms of DPPH• scavenging, but better than BHT. Additionally, as a polyphenolic secondary metabolite, the hamamelitannin inhibition capability of several metabolic enzymes was demonstrated, including acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), carbonic anhydrase I (CA I), carbonic anhydrase II (CA II) and α-glycosidase. The Ki values of hamamelitannin exhibited 7.40, 1.99, 10.18, 18.26, and 25.79 nM toward AChE, BChE, hCA I, hCA II, and α-glycosidase, respectively.
Research on Catalytic Pyrolysis Process of Coconut Coat of Tropical Agricultural and Forestry Wastes
Authors: Zhi Shitao , Gao Mingyuan , Li Jin , Pan Tao
Published: October 2024

The effects of reaction temperature, reaction time, heating rate, nitrogen flow rate, and catalyst quality on the oil yield and oxygen content in oil were investigated by using the single-factor principle. Too high and too low reaction temperature, nitrogen flow rate, heating rate, and reaction time improved the yield of bio-oil, but the oxygen content in bio-oil was higher. The reduction in catalytic dose is beneficial to the increase in oil yield but not conducive to the increase in aromatic compound content. The optimal reaction conditions were observed as a reaction temperature of 500 °C, a nitrogen flow rate of 110 mL/min, a heating rate of 20 °C/min, a reaction time of 15 min, a mass ratio of catalyst to coconut coat powder of 1, an oil yield of 4.97%, a water yield of 35.80%, and a solid yield of 30.78%. The gas yield was 28.45%, the oxygen content was 10.3%, and the aromatic compound content was 89.7%. The analysis of the catalytic cracking mechanism shows that most of the oxygen-containing compounds in bio-oil are generated into water and aromatic compounds by a catalytic cracking reaction at high temperature, thus removing oxygen.
A Comparative Perspective of “Engaged Buddhism” and “Renjian Fojiao” (“Humanistic Buddhism”) in Chinese Speaking Discourse: Exclusivism, Inclusivism, or Pragmatism?
Authors: Krause Carsten
Published: October 2024

The two modern concepts, “Engaged Buddhism” and renjian fojiao 人間佛教, with the variety of its English translations (such as “Humanistic Buddhism”), were developed and discussed with and without reference to each other over several decades. This article raises the question of how “Engaged Buddhism” has been portrayed in the Chinese-speaking world. It therefore reflects on a hybrid conceptual history and distinguishes between “concept-unaffected” and “concept-affected” (“concept-affirming”, “concept-negating”, and “concept-corresponding”) positionings in the Buddhist world, as well as a “concept-distancing” and “concept-processing” scholarship of Buddhist studies. The concept of “Engaged Buddhism” has been rendered with various Chinese terms in mainland China and Taiwan, e.g., “rushi fojiao” 入世佛教 (Buddhism that Enters the World), “canyu fojiao” 參與佛教 (Participatory Buddhism), and “zuoyi fojiao” 左翼佛教 (Left-Wing Buddhism). As can be seen from a rich body of sources, its discussion among Chinese-speaking Buddhists and scholars increased over the past twenty years and has been strongly characterized by comparisons with “renjian fojiao”, which can lead to different currents, such as exclusivism, inclusivism, and pragmatism.
Sources Affecting Microplastic Contamination in Mountain Lakes in Tatra National Park
Authors: Kiełtyk Piotr , Karaban Kamil , Poniatowska Agnieszka , Bryska Angelika , Runka Tomasz , Sambor Zuzanna , Radomski Piotr , Zwijacz-Kozica Tomasz , Kaliszewicz Anita
Published: October 2024

The global atmospheric transport of microplastics (MPs) plays a crucial role in the contamination of remote, especially higher-elevation, environments. Precipitation is considered the main source of MP pollution. Meanwhile, plastic waste generated from, for example, tourism activities can be a local source of MP pollution. In this study, we specify which of the mentioned sources of MP, global or local, have a higher impact on the pollution level in the high-elevation oligotrophic lakes of Tatra National Park in Poland. Due to its unique natural value, it is listed by UNESCO as an international biosphere reserve and meets the criteria for Natura 2000 areas. We comprehensively analyzed the morphometric and anthropogenic features of 11 lakes in terms of the contamination level, color, shape, and polymer type of the MPs found in the surface waters. MP fibers were found to be present in all studied lakes, with contamination ranging from 25 to 179 items/m3. Polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and natural or semi-natural cellulose fibers—black or red in color with a length of 0.2–1.0 mm—predominated, which corresponds with other studies conducted on remote mountain ecosystems. We did not find any correlation of the number of MPs with local anthropogenic pressure characteristics. In turn, the significant correlation with lake area, coastline length, lake volume, and catchment area indicated airborne sources, including global transport of MPs to the lakes with reduced water outflow.
A Fuzzy-Logic-Based Approach for Eliminating Interference Lines in Micro Rain Radar (MRR-2)
Authors: Kim Kwonil , Lee GyuWon
Published: October 2024

This research presents a novel fuzzy-logic-based algorithm aimed at detecting and removing interference lines from Micro Rain Radar (MRR-2) data. Interference lines, which are non-meteorological echoes with unknown origins, can severely obscure meteorological signals. Leveraging an understanding of interference line characteristics, such as temporal continuity, we identified and utilized eight key variables to distinguish interference lines from meteorological signals. These variables include radar moments, Doppler spectrum peaks, and the spatial/temporal continuity of Doppler velocity. The algorithm was developed and validated using data from MRR installations at three sites (Seoul, Suwon, and Incheon) in South Korea, from June to September 2021–2023. While there is a slight tendency to eliminate some weak precipitation, results indicate that the algorithm effectively removes interference lines while preserving the majority of genuine precipitation signals, even in complex scenarios where both interference and precipitation signals are present. The developed software, written in Python 3 and available as open-source, outputs in NetCDF4 format, with customizable parameters for user flexibility. This tool offers a significant contribution to the field, facilitating the accurate interpretation of MRR-2 data contaminated by interference.
Strain and Deformation Analysis Using 3D Geological Finite Element Modeling with Comparison to Extensometer and Tiltmeter Observations
Authors: Li Meng , Lu Hexiong , El-Mowafy Ahmed , Lu Tieding , Zhao Aiping
Published: October 2024

This study verifies the practicality of using finite element analysis for strain and deformation analysis in regions with sparse GNSS stations. A digital 3D terrain model is constructed using DEM data, and regional rock mass properties are integrated to simulate geological structures, resulting in the development of a 3D geological finite element model (FEM) using the ANSYS Workbench module. Gravity load and thermal constraints are applied to derive directional strain and deformation solutions, and the model results are compared to actual strain and tilt measurements from the Jiujiang Seismic Station (JSS). The results show that temperature variations significantly affect strain and deformation, particularly due to the elevation difference between the mountain base and summit. Higher temperatures increase thermal strain, causing tensile effects, while lower temperatures reduce thermal strain, leading to compressive effects. Strain and deformation patterns are strongly influenced by geological structures, gravity, and topography, with valleys experiencing tensile strain and ridges undergoing compression. The deformation trend indicates a southwestward movement across the study area. A comparison of FEM results with ten years of strain and tiltmeter data from JSS reveals a strong correlation between the model predictions and actual measurements, with correlation coefficients of 0.6 and 0.75 for strain in the NS and EW directions, and 0.8 and 0.9 for deformation in the NS and EW directions, respectively. These findings confirm that the 3D geological FEM is applicable for regional strain and deformation analysis, providing a feasible alternative in areas with limited GNSS monitoring. This method provides valuable insights into crustal deformation in regions with sparse strain and deformation measurement data.
Machine Learning Clustering Techniques to Support Structural Monitoring of the Valgadena Bridge Viaduct (Italy)
Authors: Masiero Andrea , Guarnieri Alberto , Baiocchi Valerio , Visintini Domenico , Pirotti Francesco
Published: October 2024

The lack of precise and comprehensive information about the health of bridges, and in particular long span ones, can lead to incorrect decisions regarding maintenance, repair, modernization, and reinforcement of the structure itself. While the consequences of inadequate interventions are quite apparent, incorrect decisions can also result in unnecessary or misdirected actions. For example, an inadequate assessment of the structural health can lead to the modernization and replacement of some components that are still sound. Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) involves the use of time series derived from periodic measurements of the structure’s behavior, considered in its operational and load environment. The goal is to determine its response to various solicitations and, in particular, to highlight any critical issue in the structure’s behavior that may affect its reliability and safety due to anomalies and deterioration. This paper proposes an SHM method applied to the Valgadena bridge, one of the tallest viaducts in Italy and Europe (maximum height 160 m), located on the Altopiano dei Sette Comuni in the Province of Vicenza. Despite the fact that the viaduct itself had already been monitored during its construction using classical geometric leveling techniques, the methodology proposed here is based instead on the use of affordable dual-frequency GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receivers to determine static and dynamic components of the bridge movements. Specifically, an effective combination of time series analysis methods and machine learning techniques is proposed in order to determine the vibration modes of the monitored viaduct. Monitoring is performed in regular operation conditions of the bridge (operational modal analysis (OMA)), and the use of certain machine learning methods aims at supporting the development of an effective automatic OMA procedure. To be more specific, the random decrements technique is used in order to make the vibration characteristics of the collected signals more apparent. Time-domain-based subspace identification is applied in order to determine a proper model of the collected measurements. Then, clustering methods, namely DBSCAN (Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise) and GMMs (Gaussian Mixture Models), are used in order to reliably estimate the system poles, and hence the corresponding vibration characteristics. The performance of the considered methods is compared on the Valgadena bridge case study, showing that the use of GMM clustering reduces, with respect to DBSCAN, the impact of the choice of certain parameter values in the considered case.
Instrument for Evaluation and Training of Decision Making in Dual Tasks in Soccer: Validation and Application
Authors: Souza Lucas Romano Oliveira de , Rezende Alexandre Luiz Gonçalves de , Carmo Jake do
Published: October 2024

Training in team sports such as soccer requires advanced technical and tactical skills for effective decision-making, particularly when executing a shot. This study validates an innovative instrument, a training platform (TP), designed to measure and enhance decision-making in dual-task scenarios. The TP aims to improve visual–motor reactions in multitask environments that simulate real game conditions. Equipped with an LED panel, main circuitry, ball sensor, and targets, the TP challenges players to kick the ball in response to the illumination of the final LED array on the panel while hitting a designated target. The study evaluated three parameters: reaction time (RT), ball speed (BS) and accuracy. To validate the TP against a gold standard (GS), we conducted correlation analyses. The results exhibited very strong correlations for both RT (r = 0.997) and BS (r = 0.994). The mean differences between TP and GS measurements were 13 ± 15 ms for RT and 0.1 ± 0.5 km/h for BS. Bland–Altman plots revealed trend lines obtained by a simple linear regression of r = −0.507, p = 0.307 for RT and r = 0.134, p = 0.077 for BS. The TP effectively simulates game scenarios, offering advantages such as low-cost components, installation flexibility, test variability, instant feedback, and integration of physical and cognitive components of sports performance.
Model Test on Acoustic Emission Monitoring of Loess Slope Failure
Authors: Yang Xiaoyu , Sun Xiaohui , He Shengdi , Li Yanrong
Published: October 2024

The three stages of loess collapse are characterized by notable concealment and sudden onset due to the sudden nature of loess collapse and the prolonged duration of the peristaltic deformation stage. Traditional displacement monitoring methods struggle to detect early signals of instability and failure, leading to poor timeliness in disaster warnings. This project begins by examining non-force field information related to the loess collapse process. It focuses on acoustic emission monitoring and employs model tests to identify effective waveguide rods for monitoring loess collapse. Additionally, the project investigates the evolution anomalies of acoustic emission parameters before and after loess collapse failure, aiming to establish early warning criteria for loess collapse based on acoustic emission. This work provides a theoretical basis for monitoring and early warning of loess collapses. This study evaluates five parameters of the active waveguide system: sensor installation method, filling material, waveguide rod wall thickness, outer wrapping material, and outer wrapping wall thickness. The densities of the filler materials were tested using the optimal parameters derived from the tests to identify the best configurations for active acoustic emission (AE) waveguide systems suitable for monitoring loess collapse. Subsequently, a one-sided connected loess collapse model was employed for indoor tests, integrating real-time AE monitoring with the active waveguide method. This model facilitates the exploration of AE response characteristics during loess collapse and the analysis of destructive forms of loess collapse and time-sequence evolution of AE ringing counts throughout the deformation and destruction process. Results indicate that using filler materials with high elasticity modulus, high compactness, and low Poisson’s ratio, along with thin outer wrapping and waveguide rod walls, leads to strong AE signals. As deformation damage of loess collapse intensifies, the number of AE ringing counts notably increases. A rapid rise in cumulative ringing counts can indicate a “sudden increase”, or the b-value may stabilize, providing precursor information for loess collapse.
Evaluating the Patterns of Maize Development in the Hetao Irrigation Region Using the Sentinel-1 GRD SAR Bipolar Descriptor
Authors: Zheng Hexiang , Hou Hongfei , Tian Delong , Tong Changfu , Qin Ziyuan
Published: October 2024

Assessing maize yield is critical, as it is directly influenced by the crop’s growth conditions. Therefore, real-time monitoring of maize growth is necessary. Regular monitoring of maize growth indicators is essential for optimizing irrigation management and evaluating agricultural yield. However, quantifying the physical aspects of regional crop development using time-series data is a challenging task. This research was conducted at the Dengkou Experimental Station in the Hetao irrigation area, Northwest China, to develop a monitoring tool for regional maize growth parameters. The tool aimed to establish a correlation between satellite-based physical data and actual crop growth on the ground. This study utilized dual-polarization Sentinel-1A GRD SAR data, accessible via the Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud platform. Three polarization descriptors were introduced: θc (pseudo-scattering type parameter), Hc (pseudo-scattering entropy parameter), and mc (co-polar purity parameter). Using an unsupervised clustering framework, the maize-growing area was classified into several scattering mechanism groups, and the growth characteristics of the maize crop were analyzed. The results showed that throughout the maize development cycle, the parameters θc, Hc, and mc varied within the ranges of 26.82° to 42.13°, 0.48 to 0.89, and 0.32 to 0.85, respectively. During the leaf development stage, approximately 80% of the maize sampling points were concentrated in the low-to-moderate entropy scattering zone. As the plants reached the big trumpet stage, the entire cluster shifted to the high-entropy vegetation scattering zone. Finally, at maturity, over 60% of the sampling points were located in the high-entropy distribution scattering zone. This study presents an advanced analytical tool for crop management and yield estimation by utilizing precise and high-resolution spatial and temporal data on crop growth dynamics. The tool enhances the accuracy of crop growth management across different spatial and temporal conditions.
A Series of Rare-Earth Metal-Based Coordination Polymers: Fluorescence and Sensing Studies
Authors: Wang Nian-Hao , Liu Jin-Mei , Tan Bin , Wu Zhao-Feng
Published: October 2024

Ratiometric fluorescent sensing based on dual-emitting fluorescent coordination polymers (FL-CPs) has attracted intense attention due to their sensing accuracy and easy visualization when compared with sensing relying solely on monochromatic FL-CPs. In this work, a series of rare-earth metal-based CPs, formuled as [(CH3)2NH2][Ln(bpdc)2] (Ln3+ = Y3+, Eu3+ and Tb3+, H2bpdc = biphenyl-4,4′-dicarboxylic acid), are presented, which show dual emission aroused from the Ln3+ ions and the inefficient intermolecular energy transfer from ligands to Ln3+ metals. For clarity, the as-made Ln-CPs are named Eu-bpdc, Tb-bpdc, and Y-bpdc based on the corresponding Ln3+. Notably, Eu-bpdc, presented as an example, could be used as FL sensing material ratiometric to Fe3+ ions. The ratio of FL intensity of Eu3+ ions to bpdc2− ligands (I415/I615) showed a good linear relationship with the concentrations of Fe3+ ions. Moreover, the detection process could be visibly monitored through a change from purple to blue when Eu-bpdc was used as an FL proble. This work provides a good example for exploring visibly ratiometric sensors based on FL-CPs.
Agent-Based Evacuation Modeling: Enhancing Building Safety in Emergency Scenarios
Authors: Islas-Toski Miguel , Cuevas Erik , Pérez-Cisneros Marco , Escobar Héctor
Published: October 2024

Buildings and their supporting infrastructure are vulnerable to both natural and human-made disasters, which pose significant risks to the safety of the occupants. Evacuation models are essential tools for assessing these risks and for ensuring the safety of individuals during emergencies. The primary objective of an evacuation model is to realistically simulate the process by which a large group of people can reach available exits efficiently. This paper introduces an agent-based evacuation model that represents the environment as a rectangular grid, where individuals, obstacles, and exits interact dynamically. The model employs only five rules to simulate evacuation dynamics while also accounting for complex factors such as movement and stagnation. Different from many evacuation models, this approach includes rules that account for common behaviors exhibited in stressful evacuation situations such as accidents, hysteria, and disorientation. By incorporating these behavioral conditions, the model more accurately reflects the real-life reactions of individuals during evacuation, leading to more realistic and applicable results. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed model, comprehensive experiments and case studies are conducted in diverse urban settings. The results of these experiments demonstrate that the model offers valuable insights into the evacuation process and provides a more precise assessment of its behavior in emergency scenarios.
Suicide and the Coloniality of the Senses, Time, and Being: The Aesthetics of Death Desires
Authors: polanco marcela , Pham Anthony
Published: October 2024

We engage the decolonial option from Abya Yala, el Caribe, and Eastern Europe with an interest in suicide from our struggles as racialized people and our dehumanization, whereby, for many of us, suicide is not an act of autonomy or resistance but the reaffirmation of death as an ongoing state of living. This is the permanent reality of existence concocted by coloniality and its constitutive effect on lived experience. We depart from the assumption that suicide materializes according to someone’s thinking about the world and of a particular philosophy. Thus, predominantly, suicide is the universal name someone’s knowledge has given to an experience; and whose experience is named as such is consequently universally configured as a suicidal being. Here, we discuss suicide from understandings that come from non-discursive domains, and from a different genealogy than western Europe’s; the coloniality of the senses, time and being. We attempt to story what violence does in relation to an already violent circumstance, suicide, therapists and hotline workers, and undocumented lives in the U.S., when singularly imposing one way of the world. We are interested in adding visibility to the legacy of erasure and violence that the epistemologies and ontologies of suicide, suicide assessments, and therapists’ clinical judgements perpetuate; further sustaining dehumanization and the imposition of death as a constant in life. We discuss a crisis suicide call as the lay of the land of modernity’s suicide assessments, constructed as an assemblage from our shared memories on many stories we have heard in our work. We annotate it as it unfolds, reflecting upon our expected practices in institutionalized settings, under the control of modernity/coloniality that discriminates against pluriversal temporalities, sensings, and relationalities.
Bringing a Social Justice Lens to Matthews’ Five Propositions for Genuine Students-as-Partners Practice: A Narrative Review
Authors: Healey Ruth L.
Published: October 2024

In 2017, in the second issue of the International Journal for Students as Partners (IJSaP), Matthews presented five propositions for genuine students-as-partners practice. Whilst these propositions did not focus directly on social justice, a social justice ethos (seeking to achieve parity of participation for all in higher education) was implicit within the discussion. Working with students as partners (SaP) can contribute to social justice, and a social justice perspective can contribute to the practice and conceptualization of students-as-partners work. From this perspective, I present a narrative literature review that brings a social justice lens to Matthews’ five propositions by examining 26 publications (research articles, case studies, reflective essays, and opinion pieces) in IJSaP concerning students-as-partners work. These are identified using the search terms “justice”, “equity”, “inclusion”, and “ethical”. The review provides clear examples of how the practice of working with students as partners can promote equity and inclusion in higher education, thereby striving toward social justice.
Democracy, Free Elections, and Gender Equality as Perceived by Recent Immigrants
Authors: Zagrebina Anna
Published: October 2024

This study examines how democracy and its political attributes (such as free elections) and social attributes (such as gender equality) are perceived by people who come from nondemocratic countries and have lived for several months in a democratic society. The data were collected in Quebec using an original questionnaire completed by 127 adult immigrants. The results indicate that recent immigrants from nondemocratic countries primarily view democracy as a society based on the rule of law with strong social control. They consider free elections significantly more important to democracy than the possibility to vote for any political party. Contrary to expectations, recent immigrants view gender equality as essential for democracy, although this importance varies according to sphere. Immigrants’ conceptions of democracy also signify the most salient characteristics of the social and physical environment of the host society as the most important democratic features. The study illustrates the multifaceted nature of the process of forming ideas about democracy among immigrants socialized in nondemocratic societies. Not only is theoretical knowledge about democracy as a political system part of these ideas, but everything observed in a democratic society can be perceived as attributes of democracy. The results indicate that immigrants’ impressions of the social and physical environment in their host society should not be overlooked when analyzing their ideas on democracy. Consequently, the study concludes that a more welcoming society can foster more positive visions of democracy among newcomers from nondemocratic countries.
Rate of Force Development During a Handgrip Task Is Correlated with the Post-Impact Ball Speed of the Flat Serve
Authors: Dobos Károly , Novak Dario , Tóth János Péter , Ökrös Csaba
Published: October 2024

The aim of the present research was to test the hypothesis that rate of force development (RFD) during a handgrip task of the dominant arm in three different positions is associated with maximal post-impact ball speed of flat serve (PIBS). Altogether 23 elite junior boys (aged 14.84 ± 2.47 years; weight 59.51 ± 13.83 kg; height 170.47 ± 16.34 cm) tennis players participated in the study. To assess the maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and RFD during the task, four handgrip tests and a serve test were applied to estimate PIBS. Spearman’s rank correlation showed a significant positive correlation between RFD of dominant arm in each three position and PIBS (r = 0.82–0.86; p < 0.001). A very large, significantly positive correlation was also found between MVC of the dominant arm and PIBS (r = 0.88; p < 0.01). The result of the present study indicated that rapid force generation of muscles in the forearm and wrist may probably play a role in the formation of a stable contact point, and it is in connection with PIBS. It is in contrast to the slow maximal force exertion that much rather characterizes the general strength state of players. Therefore, measurement of the RFD during a handgrip task is suggested in the testing session of the flat serve of junior tennis players.
Challenges and Professional Support for Principals at Rural Schools for Sustainable Development
Authors: Liu Shih-Min , Huang Yueh-Chun , Wang Ru-Jer
Published: October 2024

This study aims to explore the challenges faced by principals in rural schools in Taiwan and the professional support they require to improve leadership and school management. Utilizing focus group interviews, data was collected from 16 participants (7 women and 9 men), focusing on issues such as limited cultural capital, student retention, teacher shortages, poor student performance, and insufficient school funding. This research highlights the specific challenges of teacher retention, student mobility, and administrative burdens. The key professional support identified includes targeted professional development, curriculum inspection, parental engagement, and collaboration with colleagues and experienced principals. This study suggests that creating professional development communities, fostering collaborative networks, and increasing administrative support can significantly enhance rural school leadership and improve education quality. The findings offer practical insights for policymakers to tailor support systems to meet the unique needs of rural school principals in Taiwan, drawing on successful strategies from both local and international contexts to ensure sustainable educational leadership and development.
The Influence of a Regional Public Brand on Consumers’ Purchase Intention and Behavior Toward Eco-Agricultural Products: A Chinese National Park Case
Authors: Hu Huan , Wang Chang , Chen Min
Published: October 2024

Transforming ecological value into economic value is an important challenge regarding China’s protected natural areas. The key strategy is to develop a regional public brand and increase the premium of eco-products. A brand–quality–price model was proposed to analyze the factors influencing consumers’ purchase intention and behavior toward eco-agricultural products from China’s protected natural areas. The data came from a questionnaire survey sample of 300 consumers in Zhejiang Province. The results show that there is a gap between purchase intention and actual behavior: (1) For purchase intention, brand awareness, brand trust, perceived quality, and perceived price had significant positive influences. (2) For purchase behavior, brand awareness, and purchase intention had direct impacts. However, brand trust did not directly affect behavior. (3) Age, monthly income, and marital status had significant effects on purchase intention and behavior. However, purchase intention and behavior were not affected by gender, and the educational level had significant effects on purchase intention but had no significant effects on purchase behavior. (4) Consumers were willing to pay 17.13% more than the price of the ordinary products. This study provides important references for brand development and valuable experience for establishing ecological product value realization mechanisms in other protected natural areas.
Solar Species: Energy Optimization of Urban Form Through an Evolutionary Design Process
Authors: Giostra Simone , Kamalia Ayush , Masera Gabriele
Published: October 2024

This paper proposes design guidelines to enhance energy efficiency and energy generation potential in active solar buildings. Additionally, it presents a variety of optimized urban forms characterized by attributes such as shape, layout, and number of buildings on the plot. These urban configurations are classified into solar species, each associated with a distinct range of high passive and active solar potential. These results were achieved by developing and applying a simulation-driven, multi-objective optimization technique for the early-stage design of a residential building cluster in a temperate climate. This method leverages both passive and active energy indicators, employing a genetic algorithm to identify optimal forms that maximize active solar potential while also minimizing operational energy demand. The approach utilizes a parametric modelling routine that relies on vertical cores and horizontal connections to produce design iterations featuring irregular geometry, while ensuring structural continuity and means of egress. The findings reveal a significant variability in onsite energy generation, with optimized solutions differing by a factor of 2.5 solely based on shape, underscoring the critical role of active solar potential. Taken together, these results hint at the descriptive and predictive capabilities of these solar species, making them a promising heuristic model for characterizing urban form in relation to energy performance.