Scientific Research Research Articles

Optimisation problem of China’s supply chain transportation issues in European logistics

The paper highlights the importance and validity of the research problem: the major consequence for logistics arising from China’s logistics market due to its effective short-term and long-term strategies and developing transportation wholesale. The presented viewpoint helps to clearly understand the international perspective of the vastly enlarging China’s supply chain market due to its strong links with logistics centres. In recent years, much scientific research and studies have been conducted in China and Europe regarding China’s transport evolution era, from the production stage to the physical distribution stage, involving multiple steps until loads are in customers’ hands. The article considers the optimisation problem of a supply chain with multiple periods and diverse means of transportation. The considered problem can be formulated as a dynamic multi-criteria decision-making problem, in which the criteria are minimising the total cost, minimising the carbon footprint, and minimising the average transporting time.

Defect-Enabled Superior Negative Thermal Quenching in Palmierite Ba9La(VO4)7:Eu3+ for WLED In Situ Temperature Measuring.

Negative thermal quenching (NTQ) of the phosphors is critically important for both scientific research and practical applications, but the design of efficient NTQ phosphors is still a challenging task. Herein, we report a new strategy for developing NTQ materials by cation-vacancy engineering. Specifically, a new color-tunable Ba9La1-x(VO4):xEu3+ (BLVO:xEu3+) phosphor with abundant intrinsic cation vacancy was developed, exhibiting superior NTQ behavior under 365 nm excitation. The NTQ performance can be modulated via adjusting Eu3+ doping levels, and the emission intensity of Eu3+ ions in the BLVO:0.20Eu3+ phosphor increased by 275% at 473 K compared to room temperature. Furthermore, the reported material emitting bright white light under 365 nm excitation was well-suited for use in white light-emitting diode (WLED) phosphor and fluorescent temperature sensors, exhibiting outstanding color-rendering index (90.1) in lighting and high sensitivity (Sa = 11.83% K-1, Sr = 2.33% K-1) in temperature detecting. Lastly, the operating temperature of WLED at different currents can be monitored and displayed in real time through emission spectroscopy. All of the results demonstrated that the designed NTQ BLVO:xEu3+ can be used as a single-phase white phosphor and optical thermometry. This work provides a fresh perspective for designing high-efficient NTQ phosphors and expands the application of phosphors in WLED in situ temperature detection.

Female-led teams produce more innovative ideas yet receive less scientific impact

Abstract Despite longstanding concerns about gender bias in science, there remains a lack of understanding regarding the performance of female scientists as team leaders compared to their male counterparts. This study explores differences between female-led and male-led teams in terms of scientific impact, novelty, and disruption, utilizing a comprehensive dataset of journal articles spanning from 1980 to 2016 across STEM fields. We employed Coarsened Exact Matching (CEM) to match female and male scientists based on their characteristics. Subsequently, we applied multivariable logistic regression models to compare the outcomes of journal articles produced by female-led and male-led teams. Our analysis reveals that female-led teams generate more novel and disruptive ideas. However, they tend to produce articles with fewer scientific impact compared to their male-led counterparts. This suggests a systemic undervaluation of the contributions of female scientists. Further analysis indicates that this gender bias intensifies in later career stages and with larger team sizes. Additionally, significant field-specific heterogeneity is observed, with the most pronounced bias found in Biology and Medicine. These findings highlight the urgent need for policy adjustments to address these biases and promote a more equitable evaluation system in scientific research. Peer Review https://www.webofscience.com/api/gateway/wos/peer-review/10.1162/qss_a_00335

Tomato Waste as a Sustainable Source of Antioxidants and Pectins: Processing, Pretreatment and Extraction Challenges

Tomato processing waste (TPW), a byproduct of the tomato processing industry, is generated in significant quantities globally, presenting a challenge for sustainable waste management. While traditionally used as animal feed or fertilizer, TPW is increasingly recognized for its potential as a valuable raw material due to its high content of bioactive compounds, such as carotenoids, polyphenols and pectin. These compounds have significant health benefits and are in growing demand in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Despite this potential, the broader industrial utilization of TPW remains limited. This review explores the influence of various processing, pretreatment and extraction methods on the concentration and stability of the bioactive compounds found in TPW. By analyzing the effects of these methodologies, we provide insights into optimizing processes for maximum recovery and sustainable utilization of TPW. Additionally, we address the major challenges in scaling up these processes for industrial application, including the assessment of their ecological footprint through life cycle analysis (LCA). This comprehensive approach aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and industrial implementation, facilitating the valorization of TPW in line with circular economy principles.

FEATURES OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF MOUNTAIN TOURISM IN THE KYRGYZ REPUBLIC

Purpose: To create a scientific and practical proposal based on the identification of promising areas of development taking into account today's rapid changes in world tourism and the impact of key tourist regions on the development of tourism in Kyrgyzstan. Theoretical reference: Scientific and theoretical materials related to the development of mountain tourism were thoroughly studied and applied while writing the article. Method: Economic and statistical, monographic and comparative approaches were used for the research. Results and Conclusion: Although the mountainous region of the republic has a wide range of natural and recreational resources, tourism revenues have been low. To improve the situation, recommendations based on international experience and scientific research are proposed to improve the situation, which will help in the development of key areas of tourism in Kyrgyzstan. Implications of research: The results of this study can be used by government agencies to formulate policies for the development of mountain tourism, in particular to identify strategic directions and attract foreign investment in promising regional projects. Originality and value: The originality and value of the study is that the findings can be applied to the development of mountain tourism and in other mountain countries in the development of the main directions of this sphere.

Արցախի կրթական ոլորտի խնդիրների արտացոլումը «Մշակ» թերթի էջերում (19-րդ դարի երկրորդ կես) / The reflection of the problems of the educational sphere of Artsakh on the pages of the newspaper “Mshak” (the second half of the 19th century)

One of the main centers of Armenian culture is the school which has a history of thousands of years. It has been considered as the most important factor in the manifestation and survival of national independence for centuries. The centuries-old path of Armenian educational and cultural life was especially manifested in the second half of the 19th century. The scientific article presented valuable information about the activities of Armenian schools operating in Artsakh in the second half of the 19th century. The problem we presented was considered on the basis of valuable materials posted on the pages of the newspaper “Mshak”. Based on some scientific research, the article emphasizes the importance of the socio-political and pedagogical movement that took place in Russia and Transcaucasia in the 1950-1960s, which had a beneficial effect on the development of the Armenian school and pedagogical thought. New diocesan, church-parochial schools were opened next to the existing Armenian religious schools. Male, female, one-class (միդասյա), two-class (երկդասյա), Mixed Gender schools (երկսեռ) gradually began to open in Artsakh. In its various issues, the newspaper “Mshak” covers the activities of the Diocesan School of Shushi, the Hripsimian Girls’ School, the Realakan School of Shushi, the Pastoral School of the village of Avetaranos and a number of issues related to these schools. The newspaper also addresses some other issues related to the Spiritual School of Hadrut. There is also very little information about educational life in other regions of Artsakh.

An Introduction to the Development and Protection of Tourism Resources in China

Introduction: Tourism resources provide great potential for tourism development, but at the same time, they also face problems such as over-exploitation and environmental damage, so it is crucial to achieve a balance between development and conservation. This study explores the development and protection of tourism resources in China. Background: Since the reform and opening up of China more than 30 years ago, China's tourism industry has rapidly developed into one of the important pillar industries of the national economy. At the same time, the destruction of tourism resources has also become more and more prominent, therefore, we must correctly deal with the relationship between the development and protection of tourism resources, to ensure the economic benefits while achieving the sustainable development of tourism resources. Novelty: Many studies in China currently focus on either tourism development or conservation, but this study endeavours to consider the relationship between the two in an integrated manner, providing a comprehensive approach to effectively develop and conserve China's rich tourism resources, while at the same time obtaining economic benefits. Research Methods: This study adopts the methods of literature review and qualitative analysis to review the research results on the development and protection of China's tourism resources by collecting relevant literature and summarising and analysing the ideas in the literature to conclude the development and protection of China's tourism resources. Finally, corresponding management suggestions and policy measures are proposed based on the conclusions. Results:To promote the sustainable use and protection of tourism resources, and to ensure the long-term stability and sustainability of the resources Conclusions: To solve this problem, this study puts forward the following suggestions: (1) to formulate strict laws and regulations; (2) to raise the overall awareness of environmental protection; (3) to promote the corresponding scientific research and technological support; (4) to strengthen tourism planning and management. (5) Establishment of funds for the protection of tourism resources; (6) Strengthening of cooperation and exchanges.

The Role of Local Government and Environmental Management in Managing Tidal Floods in Bintan Regency

Indonesia is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, with tidal floods being a significant concern in Bintan Regency due to its exposure to sea tides and extreme weather events. The local government's role and environmental management strategies are crucial in mitigating these risks. This research seeks to evaluate these aspects by focusing on the measures implemented by Bintan Regency to manage tidal floods. The study employs a qualitative approach, relying on literature reviews to collect data from various sources such as scientific journals, books, research reports, and other relevant documents. This method provides a comprehensive understanding of the current practices and effectiveness of flood management and environmental management strategies in Bintan Regency. The research findings indicate that the Bintan Regency local government has undertaken significant initiatives to reduce tidal flood risks. These initiatives include spatial planning that integrates disaster risk considerations, the development of flood management infrastructure, and community education programs aimed at increasing preparedness. The effective implementation of environmental management practices, including the use of advanced technology for monitoring and evaluation, has been instrumental in these efforts. The local government’s approach reflects a proactive stance in addressing the challenges posed by tidal floods, emphasizing both preventative measures and responsive strategies. The study concludes that a holistic and sustainable approach is essential for effective tidal flood management. The integration of comprehensive spatial planning, infrastructure development, community engagement, and modern technology forms a robust framework for disaster mitigation.

The Fear of Critical Race Methodologies

AbstractCritical race methodologies (CRM), which prioritise the experiences and knowledge of racialised peoples, have become a useful tool to identify and acknowledge racialised power relations in all aspects of the research process. However, engaging with these methodologies requires researchers to not only move away from western scientific research methodologies, which have historically excluded the knowledges and lived experiences of racialised peoples, but confront the legacy of methodological Whiteness. To explore this further, this article takes a self-reflexive account on why International Non-Governmental Organisations [(I)NGOs], who have a long history of (re)producing harmful images of racialised peoples, fear the adoption of CRM based on this tension. Drawing on Bantu Steve Biko’s and Lewis Gordon’s conceptualisation of racism, fear and Black Consciousness, this paper argues that CRM should not be seen as an attack on methodological Whiteness, but an opportunity to advocate for a sector-wide introspection on the methodological choices which not only centre on the inclusion of marginalised voices, but recognise the need for a redistribution of power to challenge prevailing hierarchies within (I)NGOs.

Innovative design strategies for solar cells: Theoretical examination of linearly graded perovskite solar cell with PTAA as HTL

Over the previous few decades, numerous scientific and theoretical approaches have been employed to increase solar cell efficiency. To improve PV cell efficiency, this study employs grading methodologies and modifies temperature, series resistance, different defect densities, and graded layer thickness. The paper presents a theoretical examination of the linearly graded device structure (Au/PTAA/CsPbBr3-xIx/TiO2/FTO). A linearly graded perovskite layer, responsible for absorbing a wide range of light spectra with different wavelengths, assists in bettering the solar cell's characteristics. In this device, polytriarylamine (PTAA) acts as an HTL, and TiO2 acts as an ETL. SCAPS-1D, a simulation program, is used for our theoretical analysis. The output results obtained from the simulation are as follows: PCE of 20.50 %, JSC of 18.071 mA cm−2, VOC of 1.4531 V, and FF of 78.08 %.

Computational Study of SmI2-Catalyzed Intermolecular Couplings of Cyclopropyl Ketones: Links between the Structure and Reactivity.

SmI2-catalyzed intermolecular coupling reactions of cyclopropyl ketones with alkenes or alkynes offer an efficient strategy for furnishing diverse five-membered ring-containing molecular architectures. This study presents a systematic computational investigation to reveal the structure-reactivity relationships in these reactions. The reactivity of aryl cyclopropyl ketones is enhanced by the stabilized ketyl radical and cyclopropyl fragmentation, arising from the conjugation effect of the aryl ring, despite an obstacle emerging from the gauche styrene intermediate that elevates the energy barrier for radical trapping. By contrast, alkyl cyclopropyl ketones lack conjugation and exhibit high barriers for reduction and fragmentation but undergo facile radical trapping due to the minimal steric hindrance. Interestingly, ortho-substituted phenyl cyclopropyl ketones exhibit superior reactivity due to a balance between the moderate conjugation, promoting cyclopropyl fragmentation, and the pretwisted nature of the ortho-substituted phenyl that circumvents the hindrance posed by the gauche intermediate and facilitates the radical trapping. The markedly enhanced reactivity of bicyclo[1.1.0]butyl (BCB) ketones arises from facile fragmentation of the strained BCB motif. Bicyclo[2.1.0]pentyl (BCP) ketones, less strained than BCB ketones, are computationally verified to undergo efficient couplings with various partners, and this can be attributed to their stable fragmentation intermediates that facilitate radical trapping. Our findings provide insights that can aid in designing related reactions.

Molecular Genetic Factors of Risk Stratification of Lymph Node Metastasis in Endometrial Carcinoma

Background: According to epidemiological studies, endometrial carcinoma is one of the most frequently diagnosed malignancies of the female reproductive system, with an increasing incidence. Currently, the risk stratification of this neoplasm takes into account the stage, degree of tumor differentiation, histological type and depth of myometrial invasion. Since the publication of the last International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system for endometrial cancer in 2009, numerous reports have appeared on the molecular characteristics of different types of endometrial carcinoma. Taking this into account, the FIGO Committee determined in 2023 that changes and updates to the staging system are justified to reflect new information about this tumor. Due to the high prevalence of the disease and mortality from endometrial cancer, an in-depth study of the molecular genetic characteristics of tumor cells is relevant; the results of such studies can be used to improve the efficiency of diagnosis, assess the risk of metastasis and prognosis of the disease. Lymph node assessment is crucial for the choice of treatment strategy for endometrial cancer, since metastatic lymph node involvement is one of the main factors affecting prognosis. At the same time, the criteria for the appropriateness of lymphadenectomy in low-differentiated malignant tumors are not clearly defined. Various molecular methods have been proposed to assess the status of lymph nodes; candidate genes are being studied as potential diagnostic biomarkers, as well as microRNA. The aim of the study was to analyze the literature data on numerous studies of molecular risk factors for progression in endometrioid carcinoma, as well as to preserve the most important marker changes in relation to the prognostic development of this disease. Methods: A literature review was conducted using data from the electronic databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and Wiley Cochrane Library for the period from 2018 to 2023 using the specific keywords. Results: The current scientific genetic studies on metastasis and prognostic factors in uterine cancer were analyzed, and a systematization of the reviewed data from the modern literature was done. Conclusions: To select the most effective treatment - intraoperative, adjuvant or combination therapy, minimize postoperative risks of lymphadenectomy and clearly predict the results - further study of the molecular genetic features of endometrial cancer is necessary.

Guideline for rehabilitation assessment and treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (2024 edition)

Scoliosis is a complex three-dimensional deformity of the spine that affects the growth of the spine in adolescent, leading to a heavy burden on families and society. According to the guidelines for the treatment of scoliosis, most adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) requires rehabilitative intervention. So far there has been a lack of scientific, evidence-based, and standardized rehabilitation assessment and treatment for AIS in China. Therefore, in order to promote the standardization of rehabilitation assessment and treatment for AIS, Chinese Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation organized the domestic experts in multiple disciplines such as rehabilitation medicine, orthopedics, pediatric surgery, radiology, evidence-based medicine, etc., who has conformed to the principles of scientificity, safety, efficacy and advancement to propose the 19 recommendations of 8 categories using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) and Reporting Items for Practice Guidelines in Healthcare (RIGHT). Through the steps of literature search, evaluation, and establishment of direction and intensity of recommendation opinions, 19 recommendations were formed, involving AIS screening, assessment and treatment.

Intuitive Innovation: Unconventional Modeling and Systems Neurology

This review explores how intuitive processes drive innovation, which we define as novel ideas, inventions, or artistic creations that cannot be logically derived from existing knowledge or sensory data. Although intuitive processes are not yet fully recognized as a formal area of scientific research, this paper examines current approaches to their study and modeling. It highlights the necessity of integrating unconventional modeling methods with neuroscience to gain deeper insights into these processes. Key experimental studies investigating extrasensory abilities—such as remote viewing, precognition, and telepathy—are reviewed, emphasizing their potential relevance to innovation. We propose that combining these unconventional modeling approaches with insights from systems neurology can provide new perspectives on the neural mechanisms underpinning intuition and creativity. This review emphasizes the critical need for further research into intuitive processes to address complex global challenges. It calls for a more open, interdisciplinary approach to scientific inquiry, promoting the exploration of unconventional forms of knowledge generation and their neural correlates.

Art and Science of Reinforcing Ceramics with Graphene via Ultrasonication Mixing.

This work presents an interdisciplinary approach combining materials science, ultrasonication, artistic expression, and curatorial practice to develop and investigate novel composites. The focus of the approach is incorporating graphene oxide (GO) into kaolin and exploring its effects on material properties. The composites were prepared with varying GO concentrations and sonication times, and their mechanical, thermal, and morphological characteristics were evaluated. The results reveal that the addition of 0.5 wt % GO, combined with a sonication time of 10 min, leads to the highest storage modulus and improved thermal stability. Ultrasonication proved to be an effective method for dispersing and distributing GO particles within the kaolin matrix, resulting in an enhanced material performance. Furthermore, the application of novel composites provided by Prvački adds a unique dimension to the study. Through the artistic interpretation, the tactile qualities and aesthetic potential of the composites are explored, shedding light on the transformative power of materials and cultural significance organized as part of an artist-in-residence commission, introduced in conjunction with the NUS Public Art Initiative. This interdisciplinary collaboration accompanied by an exhibition at the NUS Museum demonstrates the value of merging scientific research, technological advancements, and artistic exploration.

Research on Teacher Professional Development Based on Growth Mindset

At present, the main problems in each stage of teachers' professional development can be summarized from internal and external causes. The internal causes are weak consciousness of independent development, lack of professional knowledge and ability, lack of scientific research, and lack of teaching reflection spirit. The external causes are the lack of team cooperation resources, the lack of personalized training in the education sector and the heavy burden of non-teaching. Growth thinking can fully drive the internal power of teachers, stimulate the internal potential of teachers, and mobilize the enthusiasm of teachers' professional development, so as to effectively solve the practical problems in teacher professional development. The growth mindset helps teachers' professional development. The internal factors drive the strategy as follows: continuously improve the awareness of independent development, continuously learn professional knowledge, gradually improve teaching ability, continuously strengthen practice and research ability, and carry out in-depth evaluation and reflection; The strategy driven by external factors is to comprehensively promote team cooperation, give full play to the coordinating role of educational administrative departments and set up a burden reduction team to implement institutional burden reduction.

High-Precision Disparity Estimation for Lunar Scene Using Optimized Census Transform and Superpixel Refinement

High-precision lunar scene 3D data are essential for lunar exploration and the construction of scientific research stations. Currently, most existing data from orbital imagery offers resolutions up to 0.5–2 m, which is inadequate for tasks requiring centimeter-level precision. To overcome this, our research focuses on using in situ stereo vision systems for finer 3D reconstructions directly from the lunar surface. However, the scarcity and homogeneity of available lunar surface stereo datasets, combined with the Moon’s unique conditions—such as variable lighting from low albedo, sparse surface textures, and extensive shadow occlusions—pose significant challenges to the effectiveness of traditional stereo matching techniques. To address the dataset gap, we propose a method using Unreal Engine 4 (UE4) for high-fidelity physical simulation of lunar surface scenes, generating high-resolution images under realistic and challenging conditions. Additionally, we propose an optimized cost calculation method based on Census transform and color intensity fusion, along with a multi-level super-pixel disparity optimization, to improve matching accuracy under harsh lunar conditions. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits exceptional robustness and accuracy in our soon-to-be-released multi-scene lunar dataset, effectively addressing issues related to special lighting conditions, weak textures, and shadow occlusion, ultimately enhancing disparity estimation accuracy.

Seismic site conditions of RESNOM network

The Northwest Seismic Network of Mexico (RESNOM) is operated by personnel from the Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education of Ensenada, Baja California (CICESE), which supervises station installation, improvement, and maintenance. We employed seismic noise and the Horizontal to Vertical Spectral Ratio (HVSR) method to determine, for each station, the following site condition parameters: the depth of the rock layer (Heng_bed), and the geotechnical parameter VS30, obtained from 1D shear wave velocity models. Other parameters as the fundamental frequency (f0) and the average amplitude at the fundamental frequency (A0) were also estimated. Our results show clear differences between the values obtained for the Mexicali Valley and the Peninsular ranges regions. The VS30 obtained for stations of the Mexicali Valley region falls in the range from 173 m/s to 535 m/s, while for the Peninsular Ranges region is between 213 m/s and 958 m/s. Regarding the Heng_bed parameter, the values are similar between both regions, from 23 m to 850 m for the Peninsular and from 42 m to 926 m for the Mexicali Valley. Additionally, from the VS30 values, we propose the site classification according to the U.S. National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP).

Study on the balance and gait characteristics of subjects with generalized joint hypermobility residing in high-altitude using wearable devices: a cross-sectional study

PurposeTo investigate the characteristics of balance and gait functions in Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH) subjects residing in high-altitude areas.MethodsThis study included 61 university students (28 with GJH and 33 healthy controls) all from the high-altitude region of Linzhi, Tibet Autonomous Region. The Riablo™ wearable intelligent rehabilitation assessment and training system was used to assess static balance (with eyes open and closed) and gait function (during flat walking) in both groups.ResultsCompared to healthy subjects, GJH subjects exhibited significantly impaired balance, indicated by an increased distance of the center of pressure position from the ideal center of gravity(EO: P = 0.007, EC: P = 0.031) and greater amplitude of center of pressure displacements (EO: P = 0.043, EC: P = 0.032). Gait velocity(P = 0.007), stride length(P = 0.012), and swing stance phase of the gait cycle(P = 0.046) were significantly reduced in GJH subjects compared to healthy subjects. A significant increase in the flat-foot phase of the gait cycle(P = 0.022) was observed in GJH subjects compared to healthy subjects.ConclusionThe current study demonstrated that GJH subjects residing in high-altitude areas exhibit impairments in balance and gait, providing a basis for training and prevention strategies tailored for this population. And this study used the wearable intelligent rehabilitation evaluation and training system in high-altitude areas, providing methodological references for scientific research on balance and gait function under non laboratory conditions.Trial registrationControlled Trials No.102772023RT133, Registered 13 October 2023.

Reflections on Teachers’ Professional Ethics in Colleges and Universities

Teachers in colleges and universities are the nurturers of the core talents of the country. Teachers’ comprehensive quality levels in colleges and universities fundamentally determine the quality of talent cultivation in colleges and universities, the level of scientific research, and the contribution to society. Based on moral cultivation and teachers’ professional moral cultivation, this paper discusses the problems in the professional moral cultivation of college teachers and the measures to improve the professional moral cultivation of college teachers.