bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Theoretical and experimental study of a bi-stable piezoelectric energy harvester under hybrid galloping and band-limited random excitations
Authors: Li Haitao , Zheng Tianyu , Qin Weiyang , Tian Ruilan , Ding Hu , Ji J. C. , Chen Liqun 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn the practical environment, it is very common for the simultaneous occurrence of base excitation and crosswind. Scavenging the combined energy of vibration and wind with a single energy harvesting structure is fascinating. For this purpose, the effects of the wind speed and random excitation level are investigated with the stochastic averaging method (SAM) based on the energy envelope. The results of the analytical prediction are verified with the Monte-Carlo method (MCM). The numerical simulation shows that the introduction of wind can reduce the critical excitation level for triggering an inter-well jump and make a bi-stable energy harvester (BEH) realize the performance enhancement for a weak base excitation. However, as the strength of the wind increases to a particular level, the influence of the random base excitation on the dynamic responses is weakened, and the system exhibits a periodic galloping response. A comparison between a BEH and a linear energy harvester (LEH) indicates that the BEH demonstrates inferior performance for high-speed wind. Relevant experiments are conducted to investigate the validity of the theoretical prediction and numerical simulation. The experimental findings also show that strong random excitation is favorable for the BEH in the range of low wind speeds. However, as the speed of the incoming wind is up to a particular level, the disadvantage of the BEH becomes clear and evident.
Recent Progress on the Hydrodeoxygenation of Lignin-Derived Pyrolysis Oil Using Ru-Based Catalysts
Authors: Kim Hyungjoo , Park Jae Hyun , Ha Jeong-Myeong , Kim Do Heui 
Published: March 2024

AbstractHydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of lignin-derived pyrolysis oil has received significant attention as a potential technology for replacing conventional petroleum-based fuels and chemicals. Ru-based HDO catalysts are in the limelight as HDO catalysts since they exhibit excellent catalytic activity while being cost-effective compared to other noble metal-based catalysts. Various studies have reported Ru-based catalysts used in the HDO of lignin-derived pyrolysis oil and its model compounds, and a variety of strategies have been utilized to tune the catalytic properties to enhance the performance and advance the understanding of the HDO reaction. This review discusses the recent publications on Ru-based catalysts used in the HDO of lignin-derived pyrolysis oil and its model compounds. Additionally, an overview of HDO reactions and the characteristics of HDO catalysts were summarized, and the general advantages of Ru catalysts, which are extensively used as attractive catalysts in the various reactions, are introduced. Various factors, including reaction conditions, support materials, and promoters, that can affect the performance of Ru-based HDO catalysts are organized, and the strategies utilized to modify the properties of the catalysts are categorized. Finally, the areas that require further development such that Ru-based HDO catalysts can overcome the remaining challenges are outlined.
Assessing Southern Gulf of Mexico Resilience: Least Tern Nesting Failure During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Canales-Delgadillo Julio César , Cardoso-Mohedano José Gilberto , Vázquez-Pérez Nallely , Pérez-Ceballos Rosela , Zaldívar-Jiménez Arturo , Benítez-Orduña Enrique , Gómez-Ponce Mario Alejandro , Celis-Hernández Omar , Merino-Ibarra Martín , Robinson-Mendoza Carlos 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe COVID-19 lockdown opened an opportunity to assess the response of animal populations to diminished human activities. As coastal dunes face many disturbances caused by increasing human activities, we assessed the effect of reduced human mobility on coastal bird diversity and abundance and on the Least Tern nest failure rate on an island in the southern Gulf of Mexico before, during, and after the lockdown to test the hypothesis that diminished tourism and recreational activities can contribute to the conservation of coastal ecosystems by increasing species richness and abundance and decreasing the nest failure rate. We used data from 2016 to 2021 to estimate nesting failure probabilities using Bernard’s cumulative distribution function, Kaplan‒Meier tests, and Cox regression for hazard rates. Bird species richness and abundance were compared using Kruskal‒Wallis rank tests. Factors related to breeding site preference were assessed using the BIOENV method. The lockdown did not affect species richness, but bird abundance was inversely related to pedestrian traffic (rho =  − 0.908, p < 0.0001, n = 48). Nest failure decreased during the lockdown in 2020 (p < 0.0001) due to reduced presence of people, which allowed occupancy of sites never used before. During the lockdown, the proportion of nest failure was lower than that in the other sampling years (p < 0.0001, φ range =  − 0.445 to − 0.278). Accordingly, diminished pedestrian traffic can increase nest survival (log-rank p < 0.0001). Policies to reduce beach pedestrian traffic will help strengthen wildlife conservation and building coastal resilience.
Low-order modeling approach for the prediction of transverse combustion instabilities in multi-injector engines
Authors: Zolla Paolo Maria , Montanari Alessandro , D’Alessandro Simone , Pizzarelli Marco , Nasuti Francesco , Pellegrini Rocco Carmine , Cavallini Enrico 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis paper addresses the prediction of spontaneous self-sustained transverse combustion instabilities in multi-injector engines using a multi-dimensional non-linear low-order Eulerian model. The approach utilizes a physically aware response function that directly links pressure oscillations to fuel mass flow rate, independent of external data. This enables accurate capture of the behavior of shear coaxial injectors that have been proven to show a peculiar dynamics of cyclic fuel accumulation and release in response to acoustic waves. A NASA test case is employed as a reference, and a comprehensive analysis is conducted to investigate the behavior of the model. Firstly, a preliminary analysis is performed within a quasi-one-dimensional framework for a reduced single-injector configuration. This analysis provides insights into the influence of key parameters on the instability onset. Subsequently, the full-scale geometry is considered in a multi-dimensional framework, and the low-order solver is employed to analyze the thermo-acoustic behavior of the engine. The model successfully captures the instability dynamics, including temporal evolution, dominant frequency, and mode shapes. Sensitivity analyses are conducted to examine the impact of the model free parameters on the unstable modes. Additionally, the effect of introducing baffles as damping devices within the combustion chamber is investigated. The results highlight the model predictive capabilities and its potential for guiding the design and optimization of liquid rocket engines.
Artificial Ecosystem Optimizer-Based System Identification and Its Performance Evaluation
Authors: Fidan Şehmus 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis study delves into the realm of system identification, a crucial sub-field in control engineering, aimed at constructing mathematical models of systems based on input/output data. This work particularly proposes the application of artificial ecosystem algorithm (AEO) for solving system identification problems. Inspired by the energy flow of natural ecosystems, AEO has undergone specific modifications leading to derived versions. Additionally, five diverse meta-heuristic algorithms are employed to assess their applicability and performance in system identification using data from an air stream heater experiment kit. A comprehensive performance comparison is made, considering time bounds, maximum generations, early stopping, and function evaluation constraints, presenting their respective performances. Among the evaluated algorithms, the AEO algorithm enhanced with the sine and cosine strategy stands out with a determined R2 value of 0.951. This algorithm consistently outperforms others in Wilcoxon tests, showcasing its significant success. Our study affirms that meta-heuristic algorithms, particularly the proposed AEO algorithm, can be effectively applied to system identification problems, yielding successful calculations of transfer function parameters.
Evolutionary significant units (ESUs) and functional conservation units (FCUs) in the Phengaris (Maculinea) nausithous populations of East-Central Europe
Authors: Pecsenye Katalin , Bereczki Judit , Hollós Amáta , Varga Zoltán 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe aim of this study was to analyse the level and structure of genetic and morphometric variation in the East-Central European populations of Phengaris (Maculinea) nausithous. On the basis of the life cycle of the species, we expected a low level of variation within the populations coupled with a relatively high level of differentiation among them. We also assumed that the differentiation among the populations has a regional pattern. In order to confirm these assumptions, we collected population samples from two regions within the Carpathian Basin (western Transdanubia and Transylvania) and from a region east of the Carpathian Mountains (Bukovina). The level of enzyme polymorphism and the amount of morphometric variation were investigated in the sampled populations. As the western (Transdanubia) and the eastern populations (Transylvania plus Bukovina) were suggested to belong to different subspecies (Rákosy et al. in Nota Lepidopterol 33:31–37, 2010), our working hypothesis was that these two groups of populations belong to different evolutionary significant units (ESUs). The results of all genetic analyses (PCA, Bayesian-clustering analysis and especially the UPGMA dendrogram) confirmed our assumption. The level of differentiation was higher between the western and eastern populations resulting in two monophyletic lineages of Phengaris (Maculinea) nausithous in East-Central Europe. This result suggests that these lineages can be considered as two different ESUs.
Implementing the water-energy-food nexus approach to create synergies and reduce tradeoffs between the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Andersson Anna-Karin Margareta 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe Food-Energy-Water nexus approach to resource governance is a paradigm-shifting approach that moves away from “siloed” resource management and pursues integration and holistic planning between food, energy, and water governance. The Food-Energy-Water nexus approach carries the potential to increase synergies and reduce tradeoffs between the Sustainable Development Goals. However, theoretical challenges remain, and practical implementations of the nexus approach have lagged. The purpose of the article is to respond to the theoretical challenges and the need for practical implementations. The article first outlines the relationship between the Food-Energy-Water nexus approach and the Sustainable Development Goals. It then analyzes the relationship between the Sustainable Development Goals, human rights, and the capability approach, an influential account of wellbeing. I then discuss how the Food-Energy-Water nexus approach, in alignment with the capability approach, can contribute to trade-off reductions and synergies between the Sustainable Development Goals. I finally discuss an outline of a context-specific implementation model for a Food-Energy-Water nexus approach capable of mapping and quantifying carbon footprints creating synergies and reducing tradeoffs between the Sustainable Development Goals. A carbon capture and utilization project in the Arctic serves as a test case. Important policy implications of the study include a criterion for what it means to “optimize” the “output” of an algae cultivation system. This criterion is a tool for adjudication between stakeholders’ conflicting priorities.
Measuring eco-emotions: a German version of questionnaires on eco-guilt, ecological grief, and eco-anxiety
Authors: Zeier Peter , Wessa Michèle 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn the face of climate change, people experience a variety of emotions, e.g., guilt, grief, anger, anxiety, or even shock. Although these emotions are generally considered unpleasant, they may play a key role in dealing with climate change by motivating climate action. In 2022, Ágoston et al. introduced three questionnaires to assess eco-guilt (EGuiQ-11), ecological grief (EGriQ-6), and eco-anxiety (EAQ-22). We translated and validated these questionnaires in a large German sample (N = 871). More specifically, the current study not only intended to replicate the factor structures of all three questionnaires, but also expand previous findings by investigating associations of eco-emotions with climate action intentions, climate policy support, climate anxiety, and psychological distress. Confirmatory factor analyses indicated one-factor structures of the EGuiQ-11 and EGriQ-6 and the two factors habitual ecological worry and negative consequences of eco-anxiety of the EAQ-22. All eco-emotions were positively associated with climate action intentions and climate policy support, but also with levels of climate anxiety as well as general anxiety and depression. All in all, the translated questionnaires seem suitable measurements of eco-guilt, ecological grief, and eco-anxiety that capture the adaptive and maladaptive aspects of these emotions.
Poly(hydroxyalkanoates): Emerging Biopolymers in Biomedical Fields and Packaging Industries for a Circular Economy
Authors: Yousefi Amy M. , Wnek Gary E. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Poly(hydroxyalkanoates) (PHAs) are a class of sustainable, bio-based thermoplastic polymers with attractive physiochemical properties, including non-toxicity, biocompatibility, elastomeric behavior by design, and piezoelectric characteristics. In the ongoing effort to reduce plastics waste, PHAs can play a substantial role due to their inherent biodegradability free of microplastics, customizable properties, and versatile applications. This includes their tremendous potential in a broad range of biomedical applications. Biomass-based materials have recently gained great interest in the health sector, given the vast amount of interdisciplinary research in bioengineering and medicine. Implantable biomaterials should not elicit any negative response at the implantation site, which differentiates them from general-purpose polymers. PHAs do not induce any thrombosis or antigenic response even after being in contact with blood in the human body during long-term use. The biocompatibility of PHAs is also a key factor in the rapid growth and proliferation of tissues onto and within these materials when served as tissue engineering scaffolds. By application, the biomedical field was estimated to be the second-largest market share for PHAs, in terms of volume, in 2022. While PHA-based materials bring forth a broad range of opportunities, they also present challenges that have limited their widespread use and a greater market share. A better understanding of their physiochemical properties and biodegradation rates, production challenges, and the need for cost-effective strategies are some of the hurdles that need to be addressed. This review paper provides an overview of the commonly used PHA homopolymers and copolymers in biomedical fields and packaging industries. The introduction of the manuscript presents the concept of bioplastics and their environmental significance, highlighting the urgent need for alternatives to conventional fossil-based plastics. The next sections briefly cover the synthesis, properties, as well as homopolymer and copolymer formulations, followed by the application of PHA-based materials in the biomedical field. Current opportunities and challenges, together with some insight into the future gathered from the published studies, have been brought in the concluding section of this paper.
Long-term biochar application influences phosphorus and associated iron and sulfur transformations in the rhizosphere
Authors: Yuan Jiahui , Chen Hao , Chen Guanglei , Pokharel Prem , Chang Scott X. , Wang Yujun , Wang Dengjun , Yan Xiaoyuan , Wang Shenqiang , Wang Yu 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe effects of long-term biochar application on soil phosphorus (P) flux across the root-soil interface and its availability in the rhizosphere of rice (Oryza sativa L) remain unclear. We used diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT), laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and planar optode sensor techniques to characterize, in-situ, the 2D heterogeneity and dynamics of rhizosphere soil P, iron (Fe), sulfur (S) and trace element fluxes, dissolved oxygen and pH in paddy soil, after 10 years of biochar application. Compared to the control (no biochar applied), biochar applied at 4.5, 22.5 and 45.0 Mg ha−1 yr−1 decreased rhizospheric P fluxes by 11.6%, 63.4% and 79.0%, respectively. This decrease under biochar treatments was attributed to changed redox status of Fe and S caused by the lower dissolved oxygen in rhizosphere soil and increased soil pH induced precipitating of soluble inorganic P into insoluble P forms, such as calcium-bound and residual P that are unavailable for crop uptake. Higher application rate of biochar resulted in lower As and Pb fluxes in rice rhizosphere and their availabilities for crop uptake. The in-situ observation results in rice rhizosphere at μm-scale after 10 years of biochar addition directly showed the complex effects of long-term biochar and rhizosphere heterogeneity on P transformation process.
Graphical Abstract
Sheep fatigue during transport: Lost in translation?
Authors: Colitti Katia , Mitchell Malcolm , Langford Fritha 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Although sheep are commonly transported long distances, and sheep welfare during transport is a topic of research and policy discussion, the subject of their fatigue during transport has been under-researched. The current qualitative study, focused on the EU and UK, aimed to critically analyse stakeholder views on issues relating to sheep fatigue, including behavioural indications of fatigue, the interplay between fatigue and other factors, and the practicalities of identifying fatigue in commercial transport conditions. Insight into stakeholder perceptions of these issues could contribute to the body of knowledge regarding sheep fatigue during transport, potentially playing a part in future efforts to improve fatigue understanding and detection. Eighteen experts from different stakeholder groups were interviewed. Reflexive thematic analysis of interview data yielded four themes and three sub-themes. The first theme, “Let’s anthropomorphise it a little bit”, underscores the pervasiveness of anthropomorphism and suggests using it in a conscious and deliberate way to drive stakeholder engagement and policy change. The second theme, “We think that they’re like we are and they’re not”, cautions against wholesale transfer of human experiences to animals. The third theme, ‘See the whole animal’, advocates using Qualitative Behaviour Analysis (QBA), proven reliable in other contexts, to deepen and enrich our current understanding of fatigue. The fourth theme, ‘Fatigue “never comes up”’, highlights the fact that fatigue is rarely if ever discussed in the context of sheep transport. These themes suggest several avenues for future research, including developing QBA-based assessments for fatigue to improve welfare during transport.
Humanitarian and Youth Activism across Time and Space
Authors: Brewis Georgina 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis essay engages with Daniel Laqua's book Activism across Borders since 1870: Causes, Campaigns and Conflicts in and beyond Europe (London, 2023) from the perspective of a historian of both humanitarianism and youth. This short reflection therefore focuses primarily on the book's engagement with the topic of humanitarianism, before discussing an understated, albeit important, cross-cutting theme of the book: the significance of youth in transnational activism. It highlights a number of features of Laqua's book, for instance the merits of adopting a broad chronological approach. At the same time, the essay also uses the space to present a number of reflections on activism, from questions about the generational appeal of particular causes to the way in which particular figures might spark activism. It ends with some thoughts about the source base used to write such histories of activism.
A Mid‐Lithospheric Discontinuity Detected Beneath 155 Ma Western Pacific Seafloor Using Sp Receiver Functions
Authors: Chen K.‐X. , Forsyth D. W. , Fischer K. M. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis study probes the lithosphere‐asthenosphere system beneath 155 Ma Pacific seafloor using teleseismic S‐to‐p receiver functions at the Pacific Lithosphere Anisotropy and Thickness Experiment project ocean‐bottom‐seismometers. Within the lithosphere, a significant velocity decrease at 33–50 km depth is observed. This mid‐lithospheric discontinuity is consistent with the velocity contrast between the background mantle and thin, trapped layers of crystallized partial melt, in the form of either dolomite or garnet granulite. These melts possibly originated from deeper asthenospheric melting beneath the flanks of spreading centers, and were transported within the cooling lithosphere. A positive velocity increase of 3%–6% is observed at 130–155 km depth and is consistent with the base of a layer with partial melt in the asthenosphere. A shear velocity decrease associated with the lithosphere‐asthenosphere boundary at 95–115 km depth is permitted by the data, but is not required.
Effects of dietary intervention on human diseases: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential
Authors: Xiao Yu-Ling , Gong Yue , Qi Ying-Jia , Shao Zhi-Ming , Jiang Yi-Zhou 
Published: March 2024

AbstractDiet, serving as a vital source of nutrients, exerts a profound influence on human health and disease progression. Recently, dietary interventions have emerged as promising adjunctive treatment strategies not only for cancer but also for neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders. These interventions have demonstrated substantial potential in modulating metabolism, disease trajectory, and therapeutic responses. Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of malignant progression, and a deeper understanding of this phenomenon in tumors and its effects on immune regulation is a significant challenge that impedes cancer eradication. Dietary intake, as a key environmental factor, can influence tumor metabolism. Emerging evidence indicates that dietary interventions might affect the nutrient availability in tumors, thereby increasing the efficacy of cancer treatments. However, the intricate interplay between dietary interventions and the pathogenesis of cancer and other diseases is complex. Despite encouraging results, the mechanisms underlying diet-based therapeutic strategies remain largely unexplored, often resulting in underutilization in disease management. In this review, we aim to illuminate the potential effects of various dietary interventions, including calorie restriction, fasting-mimicking diet, ketogenic diet, protein restriction diet, high-salt diet, high-fat diet, and high-fiber diet, on cancer and the aforementioned diseases. We explore the multifaceted impacts of these dietary interventions, encompassing their immunomodulatory effects, other biological impacts, and underlying molecular mechanisms. This review offers valuable insights into the potential application of these dietary interventions as adjunctive therapies in disease management.