bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UNVEILING TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF THE KYPS SYSTEM IN THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR OF UKRAINE
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Andrushko Andriy
Published: November 2024

The article explores some technical aspects of the KYPS System, a pioneering Smart Measurement Technology reshaping Ukraine's hospitality sector. It focuses on the technical synergy between the ESP32 SX1276 Lora Development Board and the Si7021 sensor, spotlighting their role in real-time environmental monitoring within the food and beverage domain. As an emblematic case of SMT integration, KYPS showcases the transformative potential and engineering nuances driving efficiency and innovation within Ukrainian hospitality.
FEATURES AND ADVANTAGES OF THE MINI METAL DETECTOR IN MODERN REALITIES
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Korpyljov Dmytro , Karkulovskyy Volodymyr ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Kryvyy Rostyslav ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: November 2024

The article explores a wide range of applications of portable metal detectors, focusing on their advantages, accuracy and versatility in various industries. These devices, in particular mini metal detectors, have become an important tool in modern medical practice, military operations, rescue missions and security. Their compact size, ease of use and high efficiency in detecting small metal objects make them indispensable for quick screening and prompt response in extreme situations. The main focus of the article is on the medical application of metal detectors. In the field, during emergency situations, combat operations or disasters, the mini metal detector allows you to quickly detect and localize metal foreign bodies, which reduces the risk of complications for patients. This is particularly useful in settings where there is no access to x-ray equipment. Such devices make it possible to quickly assess the situation and make a decision on the need for surgical intervention or further diagnostics. Mini metal detectors are also effective in military operations and rescue missions, where it is necessary to quickly and accurately detect dangerous objects, such as explosive remnants, debris or mines. This significantly increases the level of security for both military personnel and the civilian population. The article emphasizes that the use of such devices can significantly reduce the risk of injury and death in high-danger areas. In addition, mini metal detectors are an affordable and cost-effective tool, which makes them attractive for use in humanitarian missions and in conditions of limited funding. This makes them not only a tool for medical or military purposes, but also an important component of safety at public events, in transport or in production. The article concludes that mini metal detectors are an effective and reliable tool that has great potential in various areas of modern life, providing quick diagnostics, increased security and prompt response to calls. A comparative analysis of algorithms for laser line center determination and recognition has been conducted. The issues in this area are described, outlining the principles, pros, and cons of each method. Additionally, the possibilities of their application using programming code are demonstrated. Algorithm testing was performed using Python language tools and the OpenCV library. It is shown that the quality of the result in the extremum method significantly depends on the quality of the selected parameters for the Butterworth filter. In contrast, the gray gravity method substantially relies on the accuracy of determining the laser incidence angle. The computational efficiency and accuracy for each algorithm are also analyzed.
ARCHITECTURE AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CALORIFY MOBILE APPLICATION BASED ON THE UNITY ENGINE
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Vira Oksentyuk Vira Oksentyuk , Iryna Yurchak Iryna Yurchak ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Oleksandr Markelov Oleksandr Markelov ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Maksym Shurko Maksym Shurko ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Bohdan Rubakha Bohdan Rubakha ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Andrii Chernysh Andrii Chernysh ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: November 2024

In today's world, mobile applications for various industries are taking up more and more space in the field of software. Mobile applications for maintaining and monitoring a healthy lifestyle are especially important. This work is devoted to the continuation of the software development of the Calorify mobile application, and in particular the server part. The server part of the Calorify mobile application is implemented on the basis of the Unity engine.in the C# programming language. C# is an object-oriented, strongly typed, high-level programming language developed and maintained by Microsoft. In general, the architecture of Calorify is built on the basis of a component-oriented approach. This ensures a clear separation of functionality and ease of scaling. All major aspects of the application, including augmented reality AR, flexible user interface and data management, are implemented through modular components that are responsible for specific tasks. The project structure in Unity is organized in the form of scenes that contain different parts of the application, such as the main menu and AR functionality. Such an architecture allows integrating technologies for working with cloud services and local databases, providing effective data management and optimal interaction with the user. The particularity of this Calorify mobile application is the use of mathematical, scientifically based analytical formulas to calculate the number of calories and water consumed during the day. Mobile applicatioon Calorify has an appropriate number of databases, most of which are local and created using the SQLite DBMS in Unity. Remote databases in the project include the Firebase database and the Image Target Vuforia database. Mobile application Calorify uses the tools provided by the Firebase platform as a basis for authorization. The advantages of such a solution are a satisfactory range and quality of user authentication services and access to remote databases. Firebase Realtime Database is used for user data manipulation. Therefore, after authorization, all entered data, except for the password, is stored on the remote Firebase server.
MATHEMATICAL MODELLING OF THE IMPACT OF CHEMOTHERAPY ON THE STATE OF A CANCEROUS TUMOR BASED ON FRACTIONAL CALCULUS
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Vilchynska Olesia-Oksana , Sokolovskyi Yaroslav ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Mokrytskyi Andrii ,   Ukrainian National Forestry University
Published: November 2024

The article is dedicated to constructing difference approximations of fractal operators in a mathematical model of the impact of chemotherapy on the state of a cancerous tumor, based on fractional calculus using the Caputo derivative. A mathematical model of stem cells and chemotherapy is presented. Numerical algorithms for implementing fractional-order mathematical models have been developed using the Atangana-Toufik method. The UML diagram of the software application and its development process are described. The impact of fractal characteristics (long-term memory) of chemotherapy on the state of a cancerous tumor is analysed. The presence of a fractional-order time derivative as a parameter of the solutions provides important information for predicting the effects of chemotherapy on the tumor's state.
DAMPAK PERTUMBUHAN BIBIT KELAPA SAWIT (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) TERHADAP PEMBERIAN PUPUK ANORGANIK DAN KOMPOS LIMBAH LUMPUR IPAL PABRIK KARET DI PEMBIBITAN UTAMA
Authors: Maryani Anis Tatik , Nurafifa Nurafifa , Fathia Nyimas Myrna Elsa , Rahmadani Elfi
Published: November 2024

Jambi Province was one of the centers of oil palm plantations in Indonesia and there was another problem likes the age of the plants which had getting older and its worried caused decrease in production. Therefore, its was necessary to replanted oil palm for produced high quality seeds. The purpose of study was to determine the response of application and discover the best single dose of inorganic fertilizer and WWTP sludge compost in the growth of oil palm seedlings in the main nursery. This research was conducted at Teaching and Research Farm, UNJA (September-November 2022). This study used Completely Randomized Design with 5 treatments, (k0 = Urea, TSP, KCl recommended dose, k1 = Urea,TSP, KCl half recommended dose + 100 g WWTP sludge compost, k2 = Urea, TSP, KCl half recommended dose + 200 g WWTP sludge compost, k3 = Urea, TSP, KCl half recommended dose + 300 g WWTP sludge compost, k4 = Urea, TSP, KCl half recommended dose + 400 g WWTP sludge compost. The results showed the application of a single inorganic fertilizer and WWTP sludge compost was able to increased growth of seedling height, root dry weight and root volume. However, its has not been able to be increase of tuber diameter, the number of leaves, shoot dry weight and root crown ratio. Doses of Urea, TSP, KCl half recommended dose + 100 g WWTP sludge compost gived the best average growth of 6-month oil palm seedlings in the main nursery.
Perceptions and Influential Factors of Beef Consumers During Foot and Mouth Disease in West Sulawesi Province
Authors: Pratiwi Nita Adillah , Ermanda Adli Putra
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT.  This study aims to determine the response of customer perceptions and factors that influence consumer decisions to buy and consume beef during the foot and mouth disease epidemic that affected cattle in 2022. The variables used in this study consist of several aspects that are thought to influence consumer perceptions, such as product aspects, nutrition and health aspects, knowledge aspects, and product handling aspects, as well as sociodemographic conditions of housewife such as education level, employment status, and location of the area of household, which are used as variables to determine consumer determinants, and 100 housewife data was collected as a sample for this research. The study's findings revealed a significant relationship between housewife education and consumers' perceptions of meat consumption during the FMD pandemics, but no significant correlation between housewife occupations (P>0.005) or household location (P>0.005). During FMD pandemics, housewife education has the most influential factor (P<0.005) on consumer perceptions of beef consumption.
Electric Vehicle Import/Export Flows in Maritime Ports: Are Local Stakeholders Monitoring their Arrival?
Authors: Fredouet Charles Henri
Published: November 2024

Within the global climate change risk mitigation frame, automotive OEMs are progressively replacing ICE-powered cars with electric vehicles in their model ranges. This strategic move is deeply impacting every level of their supply chains, including maritime ports. To shed some light, in the absence of relevant academic literature, on how closely local stakeholders are monitoring this evolution, multiple port authorities’ and logistic service providers’ institutional websites, as well as auto industry-related web sources, have been browsed (Q4 2023), looking for comments on the arrival of electric vehicles in North American and European auto ports. Study shows that contexts differ from one region to another, even from one port/one stakeholder group to another, leading to various attitudes ranging from spontaneous early movers to hyper-cautious followers.
CONCEPTUALISING FACTORS AFFECTING PERFORMANCE IN ORGANISATIONAL ECOSYSTEM
Authors: Wibowo Hendro , Rahmawati Rini , Anisah Hastin Umi
Published: November 2024

Performance, as a significant construct, reflects the desire to fulfill specific needs and serves as a fundamental component in the workplace, and is regarded as a multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects, including processes, behavioral engagements, and outcomes, specifically related to job behavior. Task performance requires specific behaviors and advanced cognitive abilities, categorised into technical-administrative and leadership responsibilities. Job performance prompts behavior associated with achievement that includes evaluative aspects. Research highlights the significance of autonomous and intrinsic motivation, indicating that individuals guided by inherent values and behaviors achieve optimal performance. The present conceptual study aims to identify and understand the principal factors affecting employee performance and to illustrate the connections among these components through a literature review on performance. Evaluating employee performance is the most complex and hardest soft skill, requiring the incorporation of additional factors. The predicted finding and discussion of this study allows us to draw inferences about the elements affecting projected performance within an inclusive organisational environment, such as the Police Department, and to provide suggestions for future research. This conceptual piece concludes a conceptual framework regarding staff development, measurement methodologies, and the factors influencing staff performance assessment. Understanding these characteristics will facilitate the assessment of staff performance and clarify the factors that enable an employee to succeed in meeting an organization's objectives.
THE INFLUENCE OF ORGANIZATIONAL CITIZENSHIP BEHAVIOR, TEAMWORK, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY WORK ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE PT. BAHTERA BAHARI SHIPYARD BATAM
Authors: Zamora Ramon , Wibowo Edwin Agung , Putri Desy Yunia
Published: November 2024

This study aims to determine the effect of Organizational Citizenship Behavior, Teamwork, Occupational Health, and Occupational Safety on Employee Performance of PT Bahtera Bahari Shipyard Batam. This study uses a quantitative approach with data collection methods using a questionnaire. The population of this study were all employees of PT Bahtera Bahari Shipyard Batam, totaling 254 employees, with sampling using the Slovin formula so as to obtain respondents totaling 72 employees. The analytical test tool used is SPSS (Statistical Program for Social Science) version 29. The results of this study found that (1) There is a positive and significant effect of Organizational Citizenship Behavior on employee performance, (2) There is a positive and significant effect of Teamwork on employee performance, (3) There is a positive and significant effect of Occupational Health on employee performance, (4) There is no positive and significant effect of Occupational Safety on employee performance, (5) Organizational Citizenship Behavior, Teamwork, Occupational Health, and Occupational Safety simultaneously have a positive and significant effect on Employee Performance of PT Bahtera Bahari Shipyard Batam.
Eating disorders among athletes: systematic review
Authors: Minařík Patr , Suchý Jiří , Papežová Hana
Published: November 2024

Eating disorders in the sports community are increasingly common, yet still considerably hidden diseases. Over the past decades, studies have shown a higher prevalence of eating disorders among athletes than in the general population. The risk of suffering an eating disorder differs in relation to gender, characteristics, and sports categories. The review article summarizes the available information on eating disorders in relation to endurance sports. The author also categorizes and identifies the risk factors leading to an eating disorder, common for both the general population and athletes.
The effect of collisions and personal fights in ice hockey on the spine
Authors: Čief Libor
Published: November 2024

Ice hockey is considered a contact sport, during which there are personal fights, collisions or sudden accelerations and braking. All the listed movement factors affect the functionality of the spine. Thanks to its physiological curvature into lordosis and kyphosis and the intervertebral discs, the spine has absorption capacity, but even that has its limits. In case of sharp impacts, soft structures can be damaged, e.g. sprain, dislocation, contusion, tear or tear, or there is damage to the bone system - fractures, ruptures, vertebral displacements. Soft structures include muscles, ligaments and intervertebral discs. Among the most common diagnoses caused by impacts while playing ice hockey are intraspongy disc herniations (Schmorl's nodes), unilateral, bilateral to circular disc herniations, retrolistheses, ventrolistheses and edema of the bone marrow of the vertebra. Depending on the location, lumbar vertebrae and shoulders are most often damaged, less often cervical vertebrae, wrists and knees.
Random forest models reveal academic and financial factors outweigh demographics in predicting completion of a year-round veterinary program
Authors: Hooper Sarah E. , Ragland Natalie , Artemiou Elpida
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to develop random forest classifier models (a type of supervised machine learning algorithm) that could (1) predict students who will or will not complete the DVM degree requirements and (2) identify the top predictors for academic success and completion of the DVM degree.

METHODS

The study utilized Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine student records from 2013 to 2022. Twenty-four variables encompassing demographic (eg, age, race), academic (eg, grade point average), and financial aid (eg, outstanding balances) data were assessed in 11 cross-validated random forest machine learning models. One model was built assessing all years of data and 10 individual models were developed for each enrollment year to compare how the top predictors of success varied among the years.

RESULTS

Consistently, only academic and financial factors were identified as being features of importance (predictors) in all models. Demographic factors such as race were not important for predicting student success. All models performed very well to excellently based on multiple performance metrics including accuracy, ranging from 96.1% to 99%, and the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves, ranging from 98.1% to 99.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

The random forest algorithm is a powerful machine learning prediction model that performs well with veterinary student academic records and is customizable such that variables important to each veterinary school’s student population can be assessed.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Identifying predictors of success as well as at-risk students is essential for providing targeted curricular interventions to increase retention and achieve timely completion of a DVM degree.
National survey reveals elastic price sensitivity for select equine veterinary services
Authors: Gibson Olivia L. , Zhao Shuoli , Adam Emma , Stowe C. Jill
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to estimate the price elasticity of demand for 3 common equine veterinary services: vaccinations (a routine service), lameness examinations (an elective service), and emergency colic surgery (an urgent service).

METHODS

Data were collected via a nationwide online survey of horse owners from August 15 to September 11, 2023, eliciting their willingness to pay for each service. The link to the online survey was distributed through participating organizations’ social media and email lists to the target audience of US residents aged ≥ 18 years who were financially responsible for at least 1 horse, pony, mule, or donkey. Statistical software was used to estimate the demand models.

RESULTS

The survey received a total of 4,915 usable responses, with at least one response from every state in the US. Results revealed elastic demand for all 3 services and subsample analyses provided reassurance as to the robustness of the results, suggesting that quantity demanded of these services would decrease more in a relative sense as compared to the increase in price.

CONCLUSIONS

Understanding the current and future trends of equine veterinary service demand is vital in ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of equine veterinary practices. Moreover, due to vast differences in the pricing structure of small animal and equine practice procedures, business models for these types of practices should be treated separately.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Although it may seem counterintuitive for practice growth, the estimated price elasticity of demand suggests that strategic price increases could enhance profitability. While higher prices may reduce service volume, they could also lead to lower costs, potentially offsetting any revenue reduction. Moreover, the findings on elastic demand can also inform decisions regarding discounts, service bundles, and the development of tiered service offerings.
Physical education lessons improve physical fitness and functional mobility in rural children with limited participation in regular physical activities: comparison of integrated neuromuscular training and core stabilization training
Authors: Kabasakal Sema Arslan
Published: November 2024

Study aim: It is crucial for children to thrive and grow up healthy, but without adequate physical fitness and mobility, this can be difficult to attain. Unfortunately, those living in rural areas are at a particular disadvantage when it comes to access to regular physical activity. However, by including exercise programs in the physical education lessons curriculum, these children can be provided with the opportunity to develop these crucial attributes. This study aims to investigate and compare the effects of core stabilization training (CST) and integrated neuromuscular training (INT) applied in physical education lessons on children’s physical condition and functional mobility.

Material and methods: The study included 30 rural children (CST group: n = 15; INT group: n = 15) who did not regularly engage in physical activity. They underwent one hour of training twice a week for eight weeks in physical education lessons.

Results: At the end of 8 weeks, increases were observed in core stability, right hamstring flexibility, and functional mobility values in both groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: As a result, CST or INT programs applied in physical education lessons may be preferred for the development of physical fitness and physical mobility in children who do not regularly participate in physical activities, and they can provide equal opportunities.
Self-myofascial release therapy moderately influence electromyography of longissimus dorsi muscle in golfers
Authors: Banaśkiewicz Jan , Kasiak Przemysław , Chomiuk Tomasz , Mamcarz Artur , Śliż Daniel
Published: November 2024

Study aim: The longissimus dorsi (LD) is often injured among golfers. Self-myofascial release (SMFR) therapy is a common injury prevention technique. The purpose of this research was to analyze the impact of SMFR therapy on LD bioelectrical activity among golfers.

Materials and methods: Thirty-one golf players (28 males, age = 35.8 ± 13.1 years, BMI = 25.1 ± 3.9 kg · m–2, training experience = 8.2 ± 5.4 years) underwent SMFR by foam rolling of the LD 4 times for 30 seconds. We performed electromyography to measure bioelectrical activity of the thoracic and lumbar components of the LD at rest and during the golf swing. We applied the Mann-Whitney U test to compare activity before and after SMFR.

Results: Resting activity of the thoracic component of the LD did not differ significantly on left (U = 470.5–487.5, p = 0.89–0.93) and right (U = 454.0–470.0, p = 0.71–0.89) sides before and after SMFR. Similarly, activity of the lumbar component at rest did not differ for either left (U = 475.5–500.5, p = 0.78–0.95) or right (U = 457.5–491.0, p = 0.75–0.89) before and after SMFR. We observed the same pattern during the swing. Neither the thoracic left side (U = 549.5–576.5, p = 0.18–0.34) or right side (U = 593.5–606.5, p = 0.08–0.11) nor the lumbar left side (U = 515.5–533.0, p = 0.46–0.63) or right side (U = 532.5–542.0, p = 0.39–0.47) differed significantly before and after SMFR.

Conclusions: After SMFR, only a slight reduction in bioelectrical activity of the thoracic and lumbar parts of the LD was observed; all the changes were non-significant. Physiotherapists and physicians should reconsider the value of SMFR in golfers.
Towards a call for transformative practices in academia enhanced by generative AI
Authors: Kohen-Vacs Dan , Amzalag Meital , Weigelt-Marom Hayley , Gal Lilach , Kahana Omri , Raz-Fogel Nohar , Ben-Aharon Oren , Reznik Noga , Elnekave Moti , Usher Maya
Published: November 2024

In the present paper, we explore the integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) into the teaching, learning and research practices within the Faculty of Instructional Technologies undergraduate programme at the Holon Institute of Technology (HIT), Israel. Our goal is to examine how GenAI has supported transitions in various courses across three study clusters: core topics related to learning and training, user experience and user interface design (UX/UI), and technological development. Through five case studies from these clusters, we demonstrate how the incorporation of GenAI has enhanced student practices as they conceptualise, design, and create technology-enhanced learning (TEL) tools, systems, and architectures designed to meet real-world needs. In this context, we demonstrate how GenAI integration influences the interrelationship among the three study clusters, thereby facilitating a cohesive approach essential for students developing their capstone projects, which require the integration of knowledge and skills from all courses. This paper situates these efforts within the intelligent-technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) framework, illustrating GenAI’s role in TEL. We conclude with recommendations for researchers and practitioners considering the adoption of GenAI to enhance their capabilities in deploying next-generation TEL environments.
Bridging the Divide: An Empirical Investigation of Artificial Intelligence and Generative Artificial Intelligence Integration Across Genders, Disciplines and Academic Roles
Authors: Gesser-Edelsburg Anat , Hijazi Rana , Eliyahu Ester , Tal Amir
Published: November 2024

The burgeoning role of artificial intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (GenAI) in academia signifies a transformative shift in educational methodologies and research practices. This mixed-methods cross-sectional study investigates the differential familiarity, usage and attitudes towards AI and GenAI among 704 students and lecturers, supplemented by in-depth interviews with 12 industry and academic professionals. Findings indicate minimal familiarity with AI tools and low use, primarily attributing this to a lack of knowledge. Notably, despite a reported higher familiarity among men than women, actual usage rates did not significantly differ. Discrepancies were also observed between students and lecturers in familiarity and usage, with institutional factors and generational divides impacting AI integration. The study underscores the necessity for academia to bridge these gaps through targeted AI literacy initiatives, fostering equitable access and integrating AI into curriculum and training.
Search for Alternative Raw Materials for Pellet Production – a Preliminary Study
Authors: Priedniece Vivita , Sturmane Amanda , Eglitis Raivis , Juhnevica Inna , Krigers Guntars , Kirsanovs Vladimirs
Published: November 2024

A preliminary study for a selection of local alternative raw materials and their possible applicability in pellet production was done. 13 alternative biomass sources available in Riga, Latvia were tested: pine mix pellets (PMP); pellets of a mix of wood shavings, synthetic and textile waste (SSK); hogweed (Heracleum sosnowsky, HW); the full plant of Solidago canadensis L. (SC); the full plant of Solidago canadensis L. outgrown (SCO); mowed grass from the municipality (MGM); mowed grass from the garden (MGG); chamomile full plant without stems (Matricaria chamomilla, CF); hemp without roots (Cannabis sativa L., HWR); hemp stems (Cannabis sativa L., HS); hemp leaves with seeds (Cannabis sativa L., HLS); spent grain (SG); damaged spent grain (DSG). The determined quality parameters were the moisture content, the ash content, the calorific value and ash melting temperature. A comparison was made with the quality parameters defined in ENplus certification for B-class wood pellets in requirements for producers. Additional determination of chemical composition using XRD (X-ray diffraction) and SEM-EDX (scanning electron microscopy – energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy) for the ash of two selected materials – SC and HLS – was performed to determine possible issues. The main issues highlighted by the results is the high ash content of alternative materials, up to 11.27 wt% while it is below 2.00 wt% for B-class wood pellets, and the low ash deformation temperature, below 1100 °C for 5 of the studied materials. Considering this, a calculation was made to determine the optimal proportion of alternative material to be used in a raw material mix for pellets to achieve a quality corresponding to B-class wood pellets. The aim of the study is to evaluate a set of locally available biomass materials, determining the values of their characteristic parameters, thus identifying alternative resources to wood for the production of pellets. This kind of promoting the diversification of energy resources, increasing energy independence and strengthening energy security.
From Cradle to Plate: Analysing the Life Cycle Sustainability of Fish Feed Composition
Authors: Zlaugotne Beate , Pubule Jelena
Published: November 2024

Sustainability is defined as balancing environmental, economic and social factors, and various methodologies and tools are available to assess sustainability across sectors and scales. The demand for food has increased due to the increase in the population and the consumption of aquatic food in the world has increased significantly and is growing by an average of 3 % per year, while the population is growing by 1.6 % per year. As the aquaculture industry expands worldwide, it is important to consider the environmental impact of the industry and choose environmentally friendly alternatives to reduce its impact. The aim of this study is to assess the composition of five different fish feeds based on environmental, economic and social parameters using life cycle analysis (LCA), life cycle costing (LCC), social life cycle analysis (S-LCA) as well as technical considerations. The impact of alternatives to the main feed ingredients was analysed separately, while the development of fish feed focused on the protein source used in the feed and the oil used, as halieutic resources are used as raw material in their production, and alternatives are being considered. The best alternatives, considering all four dimensions, were the alternatives where fishmeal protein was partially replaced by Black Solder fly and Yellow Mealworm protein, as the proportion replaced is different for each alternative. By evaluating fish feed along several dimensions, the aim is to improve fish welfare while reducing the environmental impact of feed production.
Production of Biosurfactants with Aquous Extract of Mesquite Using Bacillus Safensis
Authors: Candido Mateus Bezerra , Grisi Cristiani Viegas Brandão , Dias César Henrique Araújo , Sousa Adna Cristina Barbosa de , Santos Sharline Florentino de Melo , Almeida Andréa Farias de
Published: November 2024

Objective: This study evaluated the production of biosurfactants by Bacillus safensis using aqueous extract of mesquite.
 
Theoretical Framework: Biosurfactants are surface-active molecules of microbial origin with low toxicity and high biodegradability, which differentiate them from synthetic surfactants.
 
Method: The experiments were conducted in a shaker (200 rpm and 37 ºC), with 10% (v/v) aqueous extract of mesquite supplemented with 1% (w/v) yeast extract. The production of biosulfant was evaluated by analyzing the kinetic parameters and emulsification index.
 
Results and Discussion: The experiments with yeast extract supplementation showed better performance in the production of biosurfactants. The maximum specific growth rate was 0.209 h-1, substrate conversion factor in cells was 0.190 gx/gs and 0.041 g/mL of crude biosurfactant in 124 h of cultivation, whose emulsification was 55.20% in mineral oil. The biosurfactant produced had lipopeptide characteristics.
 
Research Implications: The research suggests that aqueous mesquite extract may be a viable and economical alternative as a substrate to produce biosurfactants, especially lipopeptides. Supplementation with yeast extract significantly improved the cultivation performance, indicating that adjustments in the medium formulation may further enhance the efficiency of the process.
 
Originality/Value: This study contributes significantly to literature by exploring an innovative approach to produce biosurfactants, using aqueous mesquite extract as a low-cost substrate. The originality of the research lies in the use of undervalued raw material, demonstrating its potential to replace more expensive traditional sources in the production of biotechnological compounds.
Acclimatation of Microbial Biomass to Effluents From a Swine Slaughterhouse in Batch Reactors
Authors: Ferrer Sedolfo Jose Carrasquero , Polo Nayade Vanessa Domenech , Montiel Altamira Rosa Díaz , Andrade Gilberto de Jesús Colina
Published: November 2024

Objective: To evaluate the acclimatization of microbial biomass in sequential reactors to optimize the treatment of wastewater from pig slaughterhouses.
 
Theoretical framework: The meat industry generates highly contaminated wastewater. Biological treatments, such as aerobic and anaerobic systems, are more efficient and sustainable than physicochemical ones.
 
Materials and methods: Industrial effluents were collected in a pig slaughterhouse and then characterized. The microbial biomass was collected from the same slaughterhouse and was subjected to an acclimatization process in a sequential batch reactor.
 
Results and discussion: The results showed that the wastewater from the pig slaughterhouse had high levels of BOD, COD and suspended solids, exceeding the limits established by local regulations. During the acclimatization process, the microbial biomass demonstrated a gradual improvement in its COD removal capacity, reaching efficiencies greater than 70%. The positive correlation observed between volumetric organic load and organic matter removal efficiency indicates that acclimated biomass has a greater capacity to treat effluents with high levels of organic load.
 
Research implications: Biomass acclimatization is essential to improve the efficiency of biological treatment in slaughterhouse effluents, reducing its environmental impact and the need for costly treatments.
 
Value/originality: This study proposes a more sustainable and efficient solution for the treatment of slaughterhouse wastewater, highlighting the importance of biomass acclimatization.
Awareness of multiple sclerosis among Saudi community in Arar City, Northern Border region
Authors: Mawgod Mohamed , Alanazi Khalid , Makhdoom Amin , Alruwaili Yousef , Alruwili Ghazi , Alharbi Mohanad
Published: November 2024

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive demyelinating illness. The central and autonomic nervous systems are affected, which may result in permanent impairments. The present study aimed at assessing the knowledge of MS among citizens in northern Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults in Arar City, northern Saudi Arabia, from April to September 2022. Adults aged ≥18 were included, excluding health professionals, students, and individuals with MS. Data were collected via a structured online questionnaire validated by experts, covering demographics and 16 questions on MS knowledge, scored for accuracy. Knowledge was rated as "good" (≥10 correct answers) or "poor" (
My Friend, The Lake
Authors: Randazzo Christina
Published: November 2024

In My Friend, The Lake, readers are introduced to Lake Erie as a cherished friend of the narrator. In the story, young readers are introduced to the colorful wonders of the world around them and to the importance of caring for the environment. Throughout the book, Lake Erie is gently anthropomorphized, emphasizing to the audience that she is a complex living entity rather than an inanimate body of water.The story highlights the beauty of Lake Erie while also drawing attention to her role in providing essential resources to those who depend on her, including fresh drinking water, food, and a home for many different species of wildlife. However, Lake Erie also faces challenges, such as toxic algae blooms, which the narrator and the audience confront together in the story. Through the narrator’s journey, readers are invited to reconsider how they engage with the natural world. They are encouraged to become stewards of the environment and are encouraged to take action by being a voice for their local environments.
Visual Stories as Educational Tools:
Authors: Yang Wenyan
Published: November 2024

This study explores the efficacy of children's picture books in communicating complex environmental issues to young audiences, focusing on We Are Water Protectors and Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior. These books utilize the approach of Multimodal Discourse Analysis, to explore how pictures engage and educate about water protection. Through a detailed examination of interactions within these books and with readers, this article highlights how visual narratives can effectively evoke emotional responses and foster environmental awareness among young readers. The findings suggest that such visual narratives not only enhance understanding of sustainability challenges but also serve as powerful tools for social change, inspiring activism, and cultural engagement.
City of Pure Water:
Authors: Werthwine Katharine
Published: November 2024

This 9th and 10th grade multimodal writing unit takes a place-based approach to argumentative writing. Over ten lessons, students explore a local environmental issue through teacher-curated text sets before working with a partner to create a visual essay arguing for a community-based solution. The unit was originally designed and implemented in an Intensive Reading/English Language Arts combination classroom and aims to support and scaffold diverse learners. The unit is aligned to both 9th-10th Grade Common Core and Florida BEST standards on argumentation and organization. The goal of the unit is to foster students’ abilities to write and develop specific claims in their arguments.
Life-giver, Death-bringer:
Authors: Kershen Julianna
Published: November 2024

Teaching children about water and symbolism through literature can be an excellent way to engage their imagination while developing their analytical skills. Jewell Parker Rhodes’s award-winning middle grade novel, Ninth Ward, offers a rich opportunity for interdisciplinary, ecocritical inquiry within standards-based learning and teaching expectations. This article suggests youth participatory action research as an active learning strategy for engaging youth in community-based investigations of water connected to their study of water's literal and figurative significance in the novel.
Water is Life:
Authors: Haque Danielle
Published: November 2024

What does it mean for a classroom of college students in Minnesota to read these words? How can they contemplate the idea that water is life, considering both their Dakota neighbors in Standing Rock and the people of Gaza? This essay is a reflection on how I use water in my Minnesota State University undergraduate humanities courses to teach about climate change as the defining crisis of our moment, and its emergence from environmental racism, colonialism, and inequality.
Looking Upstream:
Authors: Rebecca Rogers  , Schaenen Inda
Published: November 2024

“Looking upstream” refers to going beyond the negative effects of the current problems which disproportionately impacts historically marginalized families— water contamination, flooding, and scarcity—to see causation: why is the problem happening in the first place? In this article, we “look upstream” at our language and literacy practices and attempt to see how these are entangled with representations of our place in the water cycle. We examine a few curricular artifacts from our Literacy Clinic—dually focused on responsive literacy instruction and water justice—to illustrate our entanglements with linguistic systems, discourses, and narratives. Part of the way forward, we argue, is changing the ways we speak, write, and read in relation to our shared environment, including water and all forms of life.
Morbidity rates dynamics among the military women of the Russian Ministry of Defense (2012 to 2021)
Authors: Belova E. A. , Grigoriev S. G. , Shuba A. V.
Published: November 2024

Relevance. Extreme military service conditions can reduce functional reserves of the military, provoking early development of occupational disorders.

The objective is to study morbidity rates dynamics for the last decade (2012–2021) and evaluate the epidemiological significance of different disease chapters among military women to improve their health status.

Methods. The study focused on women serving in the Russian military forces with the aim to analyze their morbidity rates over a decade (2012–2021), as presented in the medical report database (3/MED form) and available publications. Medical and statistical codes for main disease chapters are indicated according to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Health Related Problems, 10th revision (ICD-10). Morbidity was calculated per 1,000 military women or in ppm (‰), while mortality was calculated per 100,000 persons or 10–5. The average annual indicators calculated based on absolute data, arithmetic averages, errors (M ± m) are provided in study as well. Trends were assessed using dynamic time serie analysis and a second-order polynomial trend.

Results and discussion. The long-term average incidence (total morbidity) was 1653.1 ‰, with primary morbidity – 770.6 ‰, regular follow-up – 186.3 ‰, hospitalization – 347.2 ‰, cases requiring a sick leave due to disability – 898.9 ‰, days of disability-related absence from work – 6964 ‰, dismissal rate – 5.11 ‰, mortality rate – 59.2 ∙ 10–5. Polynomial trends in morbidity tracking indicated decreasing trends, with varying significance of determination coefficients. In terms of their social and epidemiological significance, 8 disease chapters (listed in order of severity according to ICD-10) were the major contributors to the military women morbidity: diseases of the respiratory systems (Chapter X), neoplasms (Chapter II), diseases of the circulatory system (Chapter IX), diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (Chapter XIII), diseases of the genitourinary system (Chapter XIV), endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases (Chapter IV), injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (Chapter XIX), diseases of the digestive system (Chapter XI).

Conclusion. The diseases presented in the above 8 chapters of the ICD-10 were responsible for 87.8 % of socially and epidemiologically significant morbidities. Thus, timely diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention are required to remarkably improve the health status in military women.
Telemedicine technologies in combat settings: efficiency and prospects (literature review)
Authors: Seliverstov P. A. , Shapkin Y. G.
Published: November 2024

Relevance. Large-scale military conflicts involving a technically well-equipped peer enemy are associated with a higher risk of delayed evacuation of the wounded which therefore requires extended medical care at advanced medical evacuation stages, especially amid absence or shortage of skillful medical professionals. Telehealth can offer solutions to overcome the difficulties in medical care provision amid combat settings. The objective is to study the prospects and efficiency of telemedicine technologies in enhancing availability of medical care during modern military operations.

Methods. The PubMed database and the Scientific Electronic Library (eLIBRARY.ru) were used to collect research papers published from 2014 to 2024 studying the development and implementation of telemedicine technologies to backup combat operations.

Results and discussion. Consultations by phone together with transfer of photos and text messaging remain the most common technology to provide telehealth assistance in combat settings. Teleconference connection allowing for two-way audio and video communication involving real-time data transfer is a most promising telecommunication format. Telehealth capacities can be expanded by augmented and mixed reality technologies, AI, drones, or robotic surgery. In combat environments, however, using telemedicine is limited by cybersecurity concerns and the signal bandwidth of modern communications systems. An efficient military telemedicine requires an integral centralized system involving multidisciplinary teams of experienced medical consultants providing round-the-clock emergency and routine telemedicine care to military units, including those engaged in combat operations.

Conclusion. In combat settings telemedicine technologies have great untapped potential and can contribute largely in terms of evidence-based decision-making in process of medical triage and evacuation, thus optimizing the distribution of medical capacities and resources and improving the results of injury treatment. Although unfit to replace advanced combat medicine training, telemedicine can reinforce existing capacities by providing specialized medical advice to combat medics.
Scientometric analysis of articles of respiratory gas mixtures and their application in emergency medicine
Authors: Evdokimov V. I. , Aleksanin S. S. , Rybnikov V. Y. , Myasnikov A. A. , Glukhov V. A.
Published: November 2024

Relevance. In humans, specific respiratory gas mixtures (RGMs) significantly maximize the effect of anesthesia and treatment of certain diseases, as well as enhance body functional reserves and exercise performance. The objective is to identify major research prospects on the RGM capacity to optimize the functional status of humans, as represented in publications by Russian investigators.

Methods. In response to the RGMs query, the Scientific Electronic Library search engine generated a dataset of 513 publications by Russian investigators, published from 2006 to 2023. For further analysis of the publications, the VOSviewer 1.6.20 software was implemented for clustering of keywords with a frequency of ≥ 4 presented in ≥ 8 publications either by individual authors or co-authorship networks.

Results and discussion. The average annual number of articles was (23 ± 3). The dynamics of increasing publications were revealed. The scientometric analysis of the selected publications revealed that the content was highly demanded among readers. For instance, the average citation number per paper was 3.29, with a substantial self-citation rate of 30.2 %. Journals with the largest number of publications by top scientific networks were identified. The VOSviewer analysis produced 7 keyword clusters: Cluster 1 for xenon anesthesia – 258 papers (35 %) with the total link strength of 29 %; Cluster 2 for hypoxic training – 171 papers (23.2%) with the total link strength of 22.5 %; Cluster 3 for gas composition in confined spaces – 76 papers (10.3 %) and 22 % total link strength; Cluster 4 for oxygen-helium gas mixture – 132 papers (17.9 %) with 16.4 % total link strength; Cluster 5 for the neuroprotective effects of gas mixtures – 32 papers (4.3 %) with 3.6 % total link strength; Cluster 6 for the anti-stress effect of xenon-rich inhalation therapy – 40 papers (5.4 %) with 3.6 % total link strength; Cluster 7 for low-flow anesthesia – 28 papers (3.8 %) with 3.6 % total link strength.

Conclusion. Scientometric studies can enhance the data support for scientific research of advanced strategies to optimize human functional status and increasing performance at work for professionals operating in extreme occupational environments.