bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection and processing of natural fibers and nanocellulose for biocomposite applications: A brief review
Authors: Palanisamy Sivasubramanian , Murugesan Thulasi Mani , Palaniappan Murugesan , Santulli Carlo , Ayrilmis Nadir , Alavudeen Azeez
Published: November 2023

In this study the recent developments in raw materials, manufacturing processes, and applications of natural fiber composites (NFCs) were reviewed. Natural fibers can represent a substitute for man-made fibers (including glass, aramid, and carbon) in a variety of biocomposite applications. Physical and chemical properties of the natural fibers are given and compared with the synthetic fibers. Advantages and disadvantages of NFCs in comparison with synthetic fibers such as glass and carbon fibers have been proposed. Criteria are described for the selection and processing of natural fibers for polymer composites used in different sectors such as automotive and building industries. The nanocellulose production methods, unique properties, and its recent industrial application in various sectors are given. This short review on NFCs considers their chemical, physical, and mechanical characteristics, as well as their various applications.
Role of Mass Media in Raising Awareness During COVID-19 Pandemic: Key Informant Interviews Approach
Authors: Elhadi Fatima Elshikh Mohammed , AbdelazimYassin Afrah Kamal
Published: November 2023

This study aims to identify the role of mass media in raising awareness during the COVID-19 pandemic in Riyadh, KSA. In this study, we use the qualitative key informant techniques in December 2021 to determine the role of mass media in raising awareness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sixteen key informants (academic leaders (n=10) directors, (n =3), and healthcare providers (n=3) were selected by convenience sampling method. Virtual Zoom interviews ranged from 15 to 25 minutes and were recorded and coded for thematic content analysis. Most key informants concurred that social media and media press releases from the Ministry of Health (MOH), World Health Organization (WHO), and Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had a high-level impact on raising awareness during the pandemic; in contrast, YouTube, newspapers, and scientific publications had the least impact. Most key informants stated that social factors, the type of message, the delivery methods to the audience, and the unavailability of information about COVID-19 have the most significant influence on raising awareness during the pandemic. Most key informants noticed differences in the information about COVID-19 on social media and other media, especially the type of mask people should wear, how it spreads, and the signs and symptoms. In conclusion according to key informants, mass media significantly contributed to the increased public awareness of COVID-19 with different degrees of impact, as there are many factors, like social factors, affecting the role of mass media during the pandemic.  Misinformation is also closely related to social media. Therefore, health authorities should enhance the influence of mass media, particularly social media, to ensure the accuracy and currency of disease-related information.
Integrating Students with Learning Disabilities into Regular Classrooms
Authors: Majadley Enas
Published: November 2023

This study investigates integrating a student with learning disabilities into regular classrooms. The research involved interviewing eight inclusion teachers who worked with this student for one academic year. Through this study, the researcher sought to gain insight into the current situation, address the challenges of inclusion, and gather the perspectives of inclusion teachers working in integrated classrooms. The results of this research could help inform modern trends in inclusion education. The main promising finding is that the inclusion teachers' role is critical in aiding students with special needs to develop their social, educational, and cultural values. In addition, the study sheds light on the challenges that the teacher experienced and proposed recommendations to overcome them. The study recommended providing teachers with the proper training and support, encouraging teachers to create special plans for each student's needs, and encouraging parents to be involved in their child's education.
A Systematic Literature Review of Student Performance Prediction Techniques in Virtual Learning Environment
Authors: Thilagavathi S. , Anuratha V. , Elamparithi M.
Published: November 2023

The virtual learning environment (VLE) is essential today and widely used globally for information exchange. Compared to in-person lectures, a VLE aids distant learning, although it might be challenging to maintain constant student interest. Academic activities are not actively pursued by students, which has an impact on their learning curves. The primary goal of this review is to impart a thorough knowledge and comprehension of various techniques, including machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), which are utilized for predicting student progress and performance and, consequently, how these prediction techniques help to find the most crucial student attribute for prediction. Additionally, this analysis reveals a rising trend in the volume and diversity of this field’s research. At the same time, the assessment revealed several problems with research quality that highlight the need for the community to strengthen efforts to validate and replicate work and to describe methods and outcomes in greater detail. It can help teachers, parents, students, and tutors decide on the appropriate learning support for their charges when taking online courses.
Design and Fabrication of a Ploughing and Seeding Machine and Its Applications
Authors: Babu V. Ram , Mohan Ch. , Sandeep B. , Chandini B. , Kumar B. Sudheer , Venkatesh D.
Published: November 2023

Agriculture being one of the major livelihoods in India, it is very indispensable to discover and implement new idea in this field though lot of work has been done in this area. It is unfortunate that, these ideas are not been implemented properly in actual field. This is due to high cost and is complicated for rural people. Agro-technology is the technology of agriculture, as the methods or machinery needed for efficient production. Agriculture sector need an improvement in the efficiency of the crop produced and also to develop a better mechanical machine to help the agriculture field which reduces the amount and time of work spent on one crop. Ploughing and seeding processes are fundamental stages in agricultural field, they can impact crop yield and overall farm productivity. Nowadays farmers using bulls for ploughing a crop, it takes lot of time if it is done by farmer and animals. There is another way to plough a field that is by using tractors, but the tractors are very expensive. A farmer cannot effort that much of money. In order to rectify this problem, a power tiller machine has been designed which is capable of doing ploughing and seeding operations simultaneously. This is fabricated with less capital. The electric power tiller machine helps to reduce the time and cost involved in tilling. The development of this ploughing and seeding machine represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced agricultural sector.
Economic and Environmental Impact Analysis of Green Building Materials in Facade Engineering
Authors: Htet Arkar , Liana Sui Reng , Aung Theingi , Bhaumik Amiya
Published: November 2023

This study provides a holistic analysis of the economic and environmental impacts of green building materials, with a particular focus on facade engineering. Utilizing computer technology and project management methodologies, the research investigates a variety of sustainable materials used in facade construction, comparing their cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and environmental footprint. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the trade-offs and synergies between economic feasibility and environmental sustainability in green facade design. This research could aid decision-making in the construction industry, promoting a broader adoption of green building materials in facade engineering.
The Prevention of Anaemia among Pregnant Women: A Literature Review
Authors: . Rukmaini , Widowati Retno , Siauta Jenny Anna , Azzahroh Putri , Silawati Vivi
Published: November 2023

Background: Anaemia is a serious problem and has a negative impact on pregnancy. WHO reported that 40% of pregnant women in the world are anaemic. This review aimed to identify evidence-based prevention of anaemia among pregnant women. Method: This is a literature review. Articles searching were conducted from a number of electronic databases including Science Direct, PubMed, Springer Link, Sage pub, and Google Scholar from 2016-February 2022. Researchers used the PRISMA method. Result: Ten studies were included in the final analysis (three cross-sectional, one RCT, six quasi-experiments). Two studies discussed the efficiency of supplements in expecting mothers, two studies discussed the effectiveness of Moringa leaves, and six studies discussed the effectiveness of health education on preventing anaemia in pregnancy. Conclusion: Iron supplementation, multi micronutrient supplementation, giving Moringa leaf biscuits along with iron supplementation, and providing health education are effective ways to prevent anaemia in pregnancy.
Analysis of Secure Cognitive Radio Network with Optimal Resource Management
Authors: Kumar T. Vijaya , Sharanya C.
Published: November 2023

During the last decade, Cognitive Radio Network (CRN) technology has been a significant advance in addressing the ever-increasing spectrum demand. As the number of licensed and unlicensed users in a network rises to complete a certain activity, the information exchange between various types of traffic becomes more complex and difficult. Congestion in CRN is also caused by the conflict among several users for channel access (PUs and SUs). In a very crowded network, many applications perform badly owing to packet collisions and, as a result, packet loss before significant buffer queue building. This circumstance is aggravated by an increase in network users. Congestion control is a vital and essential aspect of the present research issue in communication networks. Several recent reviews in the literature indicate that the congestion issue in the CRN has not been thoroughly studied. Thus, effective and efficient congestion control strategies are sought to optimize network resource usage and management. To prevent congestion, it is crucial for CRN to do research on the creation of an efficient congestion management system. This will improve the network's resource consumption and performance. "Performance improvement via efficient spectrum management through optimum resource management and congestion control in the CRN by mitigating different threats" is the primary target of this project. This research also focused on enhancing performance by addressing security issues in an IoT-based CRN environment. This study provides a comprehensive review of several similar studies and their limitations, which may be used to formulate a new research target.
Exploring Maritime Piracy and Somalia National Security
Authors: Ehiane Stanley Osezua , Uwizeyimana Dominique
Published: November 2023

Maritime piracy has been a persistent problem in the waters off the coast of Somalia for over two decades. The lack of effective governance and the absence of a functioning state in Somalia have contributed to the growth of piracy in the region. This study aims to examine the relationship between maritime piracy and national security in Somalia and to explore the contextual factors that contribute to the perpetuation of piracy in the region. This study adopted a qualitative research design and employed a contextual analysis approach to explore an in-depth understanding of the history and impact of piracy in Somalia, and the policies and strategies implemented to combat piracy. The findings of the study reveal that maritime piracy has had a significant impact on national security in Somalia and that the issue is complex and multifaceted. In terms of the factors driving piracy, research has identified a range of causes including poverty, political instability, and the absence of effective governance and law enforcement remain unaddressed. The study also found that maritime piracy in Somalia poses a significant threat to national security and has broader implications for regional stability and international peace and security. The study recommends the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to address the root causes of piracy in Somalia, including the need for effective governance, the development of the maritime sector, and the strengthening of the rule of law.
Study of Serum Adipocytokines and Lipid Profile with Leptin/Adiponectin Ratio in First-Degree Relatives of Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Begum.I Samiya , B.Dolia Pragna , A Archana. , Sathiyapriya V. , . Padmavathi , J.R Jelf.
Published: November 2023

Background: The primary health issues worldwide which silently kill are Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and obesity with the prevalence range of respectfully. The adipose tissue functions play a critical role mainly in glucose and lipid homeostasis. The expansion of the adipocyte mainly leads to chronic low-grade inflammation by the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as adiponectin & leptin and others. The adiponectin has anti-atherogenic, anti-inflammatory properties and is also considered a metabolic hormone which influences the glucose and lipid metabolism. The aim of the study is to study the significance of serum adiponectin [HMW] and serum leptin and its correlation with the Lipid profile and the study of atherogenic index [AI] in the first-degree relatives [FDR] of diabetic family [DF] and non-diabetic family [nDF]. Materials & Methods: Present study is a cross-sectional analytical study conducted on 100 first-degree relatives [FDR] of both diabetic and non-diabetic families, along with their parents 50 type 2 diabetic patients and 50 non-diabetic patients. We have categorized the above study participants as groups with a and b as the diabetic and non-diabetic parents and a1 & b1 as the FDR of diabetic [DF] and non-diabetic family [nDF]. Fasting lipid profile, serum adiponectin [HMW] & serum leptin were analysed in all four groups. Result: Serum adiponectin is found significant with serum triglycerides, serum low-density lipoprotein [LDL], Leptin/adiponectin ratio and Atherogenic index [AI] between a & b and a1 & b1 groups. Conclusion: The serum adiponectin is correlated with serum Total cholesterol, TGL, LDL, Leptin/adiponectin ratio and atherogenic index mainly in the a1 first-degree relatives [FDR] of positive diabetic family history, which can be considered as the biomarker for the future risk of diabetic dyslipidaemia.
Effect of Weight Bearing Versus Non-Weight Bearing Strengthening Exercises on Dynamic Balance in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Eldesoky Mohamed Mahmoud , ElRaoof Neveen Abd ElLatif Abd ElRaoof , RezkAllah Soheir Shehata , Allah Mohamed Rabie Abd , Sedhom Magda Gaid
Published: November 2023

Background: knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most aging problems that causes many problems such as pain, reduced balance, difficulty of walking, up & down stairs and may result in inability to move and dependency. Dynamic balance has been found to be affected in patients with knee OA. Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect of weight bearing (WB) and non-weight bearing (NWB) strengthening exercises on dynamic balance, pain and proprioception in knee OA patients. Subjects & Methods:  Sixty patients from both genders, diagnosed with bilateral knee OA mild to moderate (according to Kellgran and Lawrence classification) divided equally into three groups G I (control), G II (WB) and G III (NWB), their mean value of age were 59.7 ± 4.5, 60.6 ± 4 and 60.1 ± 4.9 years respectively and body mass index were 28.8 ± 1, 28.6 ± 0.8and 28.2 ± 1.6 kg/m2 respectively. G I received conventional treatment (TENS and stretching exercises for quadriceps, hamstring and calf muscles), G II received the conventional treatment and WB strengthening exercises while G III received the conventional treatment and NWB strengthening exercises. Interventions were performed for 12 sessions (3 sessions/ week) over a period of four weeks. Outcomes were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the fourth week using biodex balance system for dynamic balance, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain intensity and bubble inclinometer for joint repositioning error (JRE) for measuring proprioception. Result: G II was improved in all measurements with significant difference between the pre and post measurements of all measured variables, while G II were significant difference of BBS and VAS and G I there was significance difference of VAS only. There were significance differences between G II and G I in VAS, BBS and JRE measurements and between G II and G III in VAS and JRE only with superiority to G II, while there were significance differences between G I and G III in VAS and BBS with superiority to G III. Conclusion:  Both WB and NWB exercises are effective in improving dynamic balance and pain in patients with knee OA. With superiority to WB exercises in improving proprioception.
Ibuprofen Recovery from Aqueous Solutions by Supported Liquid Membranes
Authors: Razo-Lazcano Teresa A. , LÃ³pez-Munive Yessica , GonzÃ¡lez-MuÃ±oz M. Pilar , VillafaÃ±a-LÃ³pez Liliana , HernÃ¡ndez-Perales Liliana , Avila-Rodriguez Mario
Published: November 2023

Pharmaceuticals recently have acquired a big importance because of its growing detection in wastewater. The propionic acid derivatives, such as ibuprofen, are among the most commonly anti-inflammatories used by population. For this reason it is necessary to develop a friendly separation technique with environment, like the Supported Liquid Membranes (SLM). In this work, SLM have been prepared in order to recover ibuprofen from aqueous solutions. Two different organic phases were evaluated (dodecane and Parleam 4), as well as trioctylamine as carrier, and Abil EM 90 as surfactant in the preparation of SLM. The SLM prepared was tested in the IBP transfer process through the membrane, from feed phase to stripping phase. The results showed that it is possible to recover almost 98% of IBP, this using the SLM and a phosphate buffer solution of pH 7 like stripping phase.
Optimal Design of Thermal Membrane Distillation Systems for the Treatment of Shale Gas Flowback Water
Authors: Elsayed Nesreen A. , Barrufet Maria A. , Eljack Fadwa T. , El-Halwagi Mahmoud M.
Published: November 2023

Shale gas production is associated with the significant consumption of fresh water and discharge of wastewater. The flowback wastewater is tied to the hydraulic fracturing technology used for completing and stimulating the horizontal wells in the very tight formations characterizing the shale formation. Treatment and reuse of these large volumes of wastewater can lead to substantial savings in fresh water usage and reduction of the negative environmental impact thereby enhancing sustainability of the shale gas industry. Such treatment requires selective and cost-effective technology.Thermal membrane distillation (TMD) is an emerging technology that offers several advatanges such as high selectivity in separating water from inorganic solutes and modular nature that can accommodate a wide range of flows. It can also utilize low-level heats that are typically available from shale-gas production and processing.The objective of this work is to develop an optimization approach for the design of TMD systems to treat flowback water. A multi-period formulation is developed to account for the time-based variation in the flowrate and concentration of the flowback water. Modeling equations are used to relate design and operating variables to performance and cost. The optimization formulation also accounts for the period-based changes in the required design and operating variables and reconciles them over the selected periods. Other constraints include quality of the permeate and water-recovery ratio. The optimization formulation and design approach are applied to a case study for the treatment of flowback water for the Marcellus Shale Play. For 75% water recovery, the cost of the permeate is about $2.6/m3. As higher recoveries are sought, the cost per m3 of permeate increases due to capital productivity factors in dealing with the decreasing amount of flowback water over time. The results are reported using a Pareto chart that trades off recovery objectives with cost of treated water.
Membrane Bioreactor in China: A Critical Review
Authors: Abass Olusegun K. , Wu Xing , Guo Youzhi , Zhang Kaisong
Published: November 2023

The application of membrane bioreactor (MBR) for wastewater treatment and reuse has received ample scientific and industrial considerations due to its potential for improved effluent quality, strong anti-shock loading capacity, less residual sludge and small footprint. Particularly in 2006, since the first operation of a large-scale MBR in China, itâ€™s acceptability for wastewater reclamation had nearly tripled in recent years. This rigorous review work focus on the overall operational chain for the MBR system with attention placed on the Chinese MBR market, fouling characteristics, energy costs, and application trend in China. Recent developments in membrane materials, compositions, and properties are summarized. Roles of cake-layer formation, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and hydrodynamic effect on membrane fouling are critically assessed. Lastly, future perspective regarding long term development of MBR applications in China and potential areas of fouling mitigation are identified.
Pure Hydrogen Production from Steam Reforming of Bio-Sources
Authors: Bagnato G. , Iulianelli A. , Vita A. , Italiano C. , LaganÃ  M. , Fabiano C. , Rossi C. , Basile A.
Published: November 2023

Two synthetic mixtures simulating biogas (CH4 /CO2 = 66.2/33.8) and bioethanol (H2O/EtOH = 13/1) have been used for producing hydrogen by steam reforming reaction in a commercial dense self-supported Pd-Ag membrane reactor. The experimental campaign was subdivided into two parts. Firstly, we studied biogas steam reforming reaction, evaluating the reaction pressure influence (between 200 and 350 kPa) at 450Â°C, H2O/CH4feed molar ratio = 4/1, GHSV =2370h-1, sweep gas flow rate (N2) = 28.55 mL/min and countercurrent configuration. As best result, we reached 60% CH4 conversion and 40% hydrogen recovery at 350kPa.Successively, we carried out bioethanol steam reforming reaction studying the influence of reaction temperature between 350 and 400Â°C at 300 kPa of reaction pressure, GHSV=700 h-1 in the presence of sweep gas (N2 = 28.55 mL/min) and countercurrent configuration, obtaining - at 400 Â°C - maximum ethanol conversion, hydrogen yield and recovery equal to 70%, 50% and 65%, respectively. In addition, we compared the membrane reactor performance with a traditional reactor exercised at the same conditions, only varying the reaction pressure between 200 and 300 kPa. The aim of this work is constituted by the pure hydrogen production from bio-sources exploitation in membrane reactors at bench scale, starting with the utilization of commercial membranes available in the market and in the perspective of scaling up the process for potential industrial development.
Removal of Diclofenac from Water using an Hybrid Process Combining Activated Carbon Adsorption and Ultrafiltration or Microfiltration
Authors: Abdi Bogoreh Hassan , Charcosset Catherine
Published: November 2023

Small amounts of pharmaceuticals are increasingly found in natural waters and wastewaters in treatment plants. Several processes are developed for their removal such as hybrid membrane processes. These techniques integrate membrane filtration (mainly ultrafiltration or microfiltration) to a physical technique (such as flocculation or sorption on activated carbon). In this study, we report results on a process with sorption on activated carbon and microfiltration or ultrafiltration using a ceramic membrane, with a specific attention to the influence of the membrane pore size. The membranes showed little fouling at the experimental conditions used (maximum 500 mg/L activated carbon), while an important increase in conductivity was observed in permeate samples due to the salting out of ions from the activated carbon particles. Besides, the removal of diclofenac and humic acid (both at 10 mg/L) was higher than 90 % during the treatment with both ultrafiltration and microfiltration, however microfiltration was preferred due to its higher flux. These results suggest that hybrid processes of activated carbon/ultrafiltration or microfiltration could be interesting alternatives for processing waters containing small amounts of pharmaceuticals.
Organic Micropollutant Removal by a Nanofiltration Pilot Plant used to Treat Spring Water from a Wastewater-Irrigated Valley
Authors: ChÃ¡vez Alma , J. Torner Francisco , SÃ¡nchez Daniel , JimÃ©nez Blanca
Published: November 2023

The abundance of freshwater springs in the Tula Valley is well documented. Large quantities of untreated wastewater from Mexico City are used for irrigation purposes, with the resultant emerging springs. Studies are needed to assess how safe water is to be supplied to the community. Comparative membrane studies were done on lab-scale, from which NF270 membrane was selected for a pilot plant in situ (critical flux 185Lm-2h-1). The system was successful at removing natural organic matter, hardness and pathogenic content. On-site membrane pretreatment using microfiltration and softening allowed moderate recoveries (60%) and slow permeate flux losses (124-90Lm-2h-1). Micropollutant (MP) removal was greater than 90% for most of the pharmaceuticals, hormones and phthalates using spiked spring water. However, moderate and variable removals were found when the concentrations of MPs were very low. Molecular structure and hydrophobicity were loosely related to the removal rates of the compounds evaluated, however an accumulating effect on the membrane might be key for higher MP removals. A threshold of concentration could have to be overcome to allow the removal process to achieve a better performance. In consequence, optimization of a large-scale process is the next step to take.
A Novel Method for Decomposing and Recycling Ammonium Bicarbonate Solutions
Authors: Pashley Richard M. , Gettongsong Tanita , Taseidifar Mojtaba , Shahid Muhammad
Published: November 2023

A new way of decomposing and recycling ammonium bicarbonate (AB) in aqueous solution has been achieved using a membrane transport process with both dense and porous hollow fibre membranes, which offer efficient heat and mass transfer coefficients. It has been established that the decomposition of AB solutions occurs via contact through a permeable membrane, of AB solutions pre-heated to 80 Â°C, with a continuous counter-flow of dehumidified air at room temperature. In this process, ammonia (NH3) and carbon dioxide (CO2) gases permeate through the membrane and are thereby separated from the feed solution and they can then be collected into aqueous solution, for recycling purposes. The new process could, for example, be applied to the treatment of concentrated AB solutions used as draw solutions in forward osmosis (FO) or in the regeneration of depleted ion exchange resins. The results also show that AB recovery depends largely on the membrane surface area. The membrane can be used and optimised to achieve a high decomposition rate for AB with a single pass system to avoid additional pumping of the solution.
Hydrogen Production and Organic Synthesis in Photocatalytic Membrane Reactors: A Review
Authors: Pietro Argurio , Cristina Lavorato , Raffaele Molinari
Published: November 2023

Photocatalytic Membrane Reactors (PMRs) are green and promising technologies for sustainable applications. The recent scientific literature on PMRs is reviewed with a particular focus on the photocatalytic hydrogen production from water splitting, CO2 conversion to solar fuels (CH3OH, C2H5OH, CH4 and HCOOH) and organic synthesis such as oxidation (benzene to phenol, cyclohexane to cyclohexanol, ferulic acid to vanillin) and reduction reactions (acetophenone to phenylethanol). Different types of PMRs, synthesis of various photocatalytic membranes and modification of some semiconductors, to improve selectivity and yield also under visible light, are discussed. The described results show that combination of photocatalysis and a membrane process to build PMRs is a promising approach in view of large-scale application and use of solar energy.
ВІДВАЛЬНІ ДОМЕННІ ШЛАКИ ЯК РЕСУРС ВИРОБНИЦТВА ШЛАКОЛУЖНИХ В'ЯЖУЧИХ
Authors: Хоботова Еліна Б. , Калюжна Юлія С.
Published: November 2023

Актуальність роботи пов'язана з вирішенням екологічних проблем при скороченні використання природних ресурсів, виділення СО2 при виробництві цементу та з пошуком шляхів створення альтернативних в'яжучих зі специфічними властивостями, одними з яких є шлаколужні в'яжучі (ШЛВ). Мета роботи полягала у вирішенні проблеми ресурсозбереження за рахунок виявлення корисних технічних властивостей відвальних доменних шлаків та обґрунтування їх утилізації як ШЛВ. Досліджено відвальні доменні шлаки ПАТ Дніпровський металургійний комбінат (ДМК), ПАТ «Запоріжсталь», ПрАТ «Маріупольський металургійний комбінат» (ММК),); ПАТ Алчевський металургійний комбінат (АМК); відвальний та гранульований доменний шлак ПАТ «АрселорМіттал Кривий Ріг». Шлаки диспергували до питомої поверхні 2700–4950 см2/г. Для замішування використовували воду і 20 % розчин NaOH. Визначення консистенції вяжучого тесту проводили методом розпливу стандартного конуса на вібростолі. Міцність зразків ШЩВ визначали на пресі марки Р-5. Мінералогічний склад ШЛВ визначали методом рентгенофазового аналізу, проведеного на порошковому дифрактометрі Siemens D500. Відібрано фракції шлаків, що відповідають критеріям практичної утилізації: співвідношення оксидів головних елементів, відповідність вимогам модульної класифікації та величин коефіцієнтів якості та насичення. Взаємодія мінералів шлаків з агентами замішування підтверджується зміною мінералогічного складу ШЛВ порівняно з вихідним складом шлаків. Новоутворення представлені алюмосилікатами Са та Mg, карбонатними сполуками та фазами, що містять натрій і є продуктами гідратаційного твердіння. Різна природа продуктів твердіння ШЛВ свідчить про одночасну реалізацію контактно-конденсаційного та гідратаційного механізмів процесу. За мінералогічним складом ШЛВ на основі відвальних доменних шлаків займають проміжне місце між клінкерними цементами та ШЛВ на основі гранульованих доменних шлаків. Прогнозуються спеціальні властивості ШЛВ: тривалість наростання міцності у часі; ущільнення та зміцнення структури в результаті утворення карбонатних фаз; стійкість до сульфатної корозії; жаростійкість, що відкриває перспективу отримання бетонів цільового призначення на основі ШЛВ з використанням різних шлаків.
МОДЕЛЮВАННЯ МЕТАНСУЛЬФОНАТНИХ ТА СУЛЬФАТНИХ КОМПЛЕКСІВ ЦИРКОНІЮ(IV) У ВОДНОМУ РОЗЧИНІ
Authors: Пасенко Олександр О. , Хрупчик Єлизавета С. , Осокін Євген С. , Верещак Віктор Г.
Published: November 2023

Реакцію розкриття циклу 2-(хлорметил)оксирану (епіхлоргідрину) третинними амінами досліджено методом ab initio у газовій фазі. Для моделювання обрана серія амінів MenEt3–nN з варійованим стеричним фактором. Локалізовано перехідні стани на шляху реакції, для них встановлено геометричні параметри, порядки розриву й утворення зв’язків, які характерні для SN2-процесів. За процедурою внутрішньої координати реакції одержано енергетичні профілі реакції кватернізації амінів епоксидом. Розраховано активаційні параметри процесу. Показано, що енергетичний бар’єр і швидкість реакції розкриття циклу епіхлоргідрину залежать від стеричного ефекту у структурі амінів. Визначено, що реакція третинних амінів з неактивованим циклом 2-(хлорметил)оксирану є ендотермічною. За допомогою діаграми енергії молекулярних орбіталей показано, що швидкість кватернізації визначається зарядовим контролем. Виходячи зі значень порядків зв’язків, побудовано діаграми Мор О’Феррелла – Дженкса, за якими встановлено дисоціативний характер перехідних станів у дослідженій реакції. Розраховано топологічні індекси стеричного ефекту TSEI для серії третинних амінів. Одержано кореляційні рівняння, що пов’язують стеричні ефекти (TSEI) і нуклеофільність амінів (індукційні константи) з енергіями їх вищих зайнятих молекулярних орбіталей, а також з їх реакційною здатністю відносно 2-(хлорметил)оксирану.
Aflatoxin M1 binding by probiotic bacterial cells and cell fractions
Authors: Adácsi C. , Kovács Sz. , Pusztahelyi T.
Published: November 2023

Food industrial bacterial cells eliminate aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) at different ratios. The study aimed to investigate the effect of AFM1 on probiotic industrial bacteria (Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis R703, Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis BB12, and L. paracasei subsp. paracasei 431) and evaluating their AFM1 binding ability in naturally contaminated milk. The growth of the R703 strain was affected by AFM1 at 1.47 μg L−1 concentration. Peptidoglycan (PG) cell wall fractions of R703 and BB12 bound a significant amount of AFM1 from naturally contaminated milk under one-hour treatment, while L. paracasei 431 was not effective. PG was better absorbent for AFM1 than viable cells of BB12, while the difference was insignificant for the R703 strain. Increasing the time did not significantly change the mycotoxin binding of BB12, while for R703 PG the absorption seemed reversible. BB12 PG needs further analysis for biotechnological application in dairy products.
Hutan Mangrove Hoat Tamgil untuk Ekowisata di Desa Rumadian Kecamatan Manyeuw - Kabupaten Maluku Tenggara
Authors: Biloro Dedi , Renjaan Melissa Justine , Manulang Anggiat
Published: November 2023

Rumadian merupakan salah satu desa di Kabupaten Maluku Tenggara yang memiliki potensi hutan mangrove. Hutan mangrove yang terletak di sepanjang Teluk Tamngil atau dikenal dalam bahasa daerah adalah Hoat Tamngil. Luas hutan mangrove Hoat Tamngil sekitar 45 ha. Saat ini kawasan Hoat Tamngil telah dimanfaatkan untuk kegiatan ekowisata mangrove. Pemanfaatan kawasan mangrove untuk kegiatan ekowisata belum maksimal, hanya berupa branding ekowisata dan minimnya pengetahuan tentang pengelolaan kawasan mangrove yang sesuai untuk kegiatan ekowisata. Hingga saat ini, belum ada pengembangan di kawasan ekowisata mangrove. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada Juni 2021 hingga Agustus 2021 di kawasan ekowisata mangrove desa Rumadian, Kecamatan Manyeuw, Kabupaten Maluku Tenggara. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui Indeks Kesesuaian Wisata mangrove (IKW). Penelitian ini menggunakan metode analisis  kesesuaian wisata dengan pendekatan spasial. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kategori pengamatan 1 sampai 5 termasuk dalam sesuai untuk kegiatan ekowisata. Nilai IKW masing-masing stasiun adalah 2,1 2.1, 2.22, 2,22 dan 2,85. Stasiun 5 merupakan kawasan yang sangat sesuai untuk kegiatan ekowisata mangrove.
Perancangan Kapal Penangkap Ikan Tipe Multipurpose untuk Wilayah Pengelolaan Perikanan Republik Indonesia (WPP-RI) 713
Authors: Suardi Suardi , Tasrief Muhdar , Cakasana Sultan Mahmud , Setiawan Wira , Pawara Muhammad Uswah
Published: November 2023

Mayoritas kapal kapal nelayan di Indonesia khususnya yang berukuran 30 GT masih memiliki banyak kekurangan seperti kapasitas muatan yang sedikit, jarak tempuh pelayaran yang relatif pendek, desain kapal yang masih kurang ekonomis dan boros bahan bakar serta jumlah armada yang masih sangat sedikit dibandingkan dengan potensi perikanan yang melimpah di laut Indonesia khususnya wilayah pengelolaan perikanan Republik Indonesia (WPP-RI) 713 sehingga mendasari pentingnya dilakukan modernisasi kapal nelayan tradisional. Ukuran utama kapal diambil dari data satu kapal ikan yang terdaftar pada Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia. Desain kapal ini dilakukan dengan bantuan software Maxsurf Modeler dan AutoCAD student version. Adapun perencanaan mesin utama dilakukan dengan bantuan software Maxsurf Resistance dengan menggunakan metode perhitungan hambatan van Oortmerssen sehingga didapat kebutuhan daya mesin sebesar 99.733 HP setelah ditambah margin 15%. Kemudian dipilihlah mesin dengan Merk Yanmar dengan daya sebesar 110 HP. Dari hasil penelitian didapatkan hasil desain lines plan dan general arrangement kapal ikan multipurpose 30 GT dengan alat tangkap purse seine dan squid jigging yang dilengkapi dengan mesin Yanmar bertenaga 110 HP.
Stosunki rosyjsko-pakistańskie. Aspekty polityczne, gospodarcze i militarne
Authors:   Uniwersytet Ekonomiczny w Krakowie, Jakimowicz Robert
Published: November 2023

After the collapse of the Soviet Union into 15 independent states in December 1991, including the Russian Federation, there was a real opportunity to reset relations between Moscow and Islamabad. The Russian Federation did not take advantage of the new geopolitical situation to significantly improve mutual relations in the last decade of the twentieth century. However, in the first two decades of the twenty-first century, there was an intensification of political, economic and military relations between the two countries, which fluctuated. The author focused in the article on the premises that underline the improvement of mutual relations in these three areas. The premises that have inhibited and inhibit more intensive cooperation, especially in the political and economic fields, were also presented. In the end was formulated a few conclusions.
Analiza dotycząca możliwości budowy modelu ryzyka kredytowego
Authors:   Allegro Pay sp. z o.o., Marcinkowski Paweł
Published: November 2023

FinAi has undertaken a project focused on the development of an innovative credit risk model utilizing alternative data sources, such as data from social media platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn) and mobile phone records. This project was co-financed through the European Regional Development Fund under a funding agreement between FinAi S.A. and the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBiR), headquartered in Warsaw. The initial phase of the project involved the collection of data and their utilization in constructing a network graph of customer relationships. Furthermore, leveraging external data as well as data managed by FinAi, specific indicators were formulated. These indicators were employed under the supervision of experts to train a predictive model that incorporated graph structures. The model thus constructed was to exhibit a higher predictive capability compared to conventional models commonly employed within the industry. The study explored the feasibility of creating a credit risk model based on the acquired data and assessed the quality of data originating from alternative sources. It was demonstrated that alternative data sources were populated for a small fraction of the population, and their quality has proven unsatisfactory. The scale of the dataset proved inadequate for establishing a robust credit risk model or attaining a competitive advantage over the models in use within banking institutions.
Towards Decontamination Facility Training in VR
Authors: Tan Teck Jun , Teng David Kuan Peng , Ng Yih Yng , Chen Kan , Lee Jeannie Su Ann
Published: November 2023

This paper presents the ongoing development of a Proof-of-Concept Virtual Reality (VR) system for staff training for Tan Tock Seng Hospital mass decontamination of Hazardous and Toxic Materials (HAZMAT) and/or radioactively contaminated casualties. As a Proof-of-Concept, the initial prototype focuses on allowing users to practice using a chemical scanner device that would be used to scan casualties for leftover chemical hazards. The preliminary development demonstrates the advantages of utilizing VR for supplementing current decontamination training in a safe and economical way.
Constructing and Interpreting Causal Knowledge Graphs from News
Authors: Tan Fiona Anting , Paul Debdeep , Yamaura Sahim , Koji Miura , Ng See-Kiong
Published: November 2023

Many financial jobs rely on news to learn about causal events in the past and present, to make informed decisions and predictions about the future. With the ever-increasing amount of news available online, there is a need to automate the extraction of causal events from unstructured texts. In this work, we propose a methodology to construct causal knowledge graphs (KGs) from news using two steps: (1) Extraction of Causal Relations, and (2) Argument Clustering and Representation into KG. We aim to build graphs that emphasize on recall, precision and interpretability. For extraction, although many earlier works already construct causal KGs from text, most adopt rudimentary pattern-based methods. We close this gap by using the latest BERT-based extraction models alongside pattern-based ones. As a result, we achieved a high recall, while still maintaining a high precision. For clustering, we utilized a topic modelling approach to cluster our arguments, so as to increase the connectivity of our graph. As a result, instead of 15,686 disconnected subgraphs, we were able to obtain 1 connected graph that enables users to infer more causal relationships from. Our final KG effectively captures and conveys causal relationships, validated through experiments, multiple use cases and user feedback.
DEEP LEARNING MODELING FOR SUBGRID-SCALE FLUXES IN THE LES OF SCALAR TURBULENCE AND TRANSFER LEARNING TO OTHER TRANSPORT REGIMES
Authors: Akhavan-Safaei Ali , Zayernouri Mohsen
Published: November 2023

We present a deep learning surrogate model in the form of fully-connected feed-forward neural networks to predict the SGS scalar flux in the context of large-eddy simulation of turbulent transport. The deep neural network model is trained and validated using a filtered DNS dataset at Peλ = 240, Sc = 1 that includes the filtered scalar and velocity gradients as input features. We provide a sampling strategy in time and space to construct a sufficiently inclusive dataset for successful model optimization. Moreover, using transfer learning notion, we adjust this trained model to perform accurately for turbulent scalar transport regimes with higher Peλ and Sc numbers with a fairly low amount of data and computations. In the inference mode on the full-size 3D LES grids over time, we carry out a priori tests for the developed deep learning models, and compare them to the results obtained from conventional models of SGS flux that are defined based on gradients of filtered fields. We show that the deep learning model outperforms traditional SGS models that either suffer from their fundamental restrictions in following the physics or under/overprediction of SGS quantities. For the transfer learned models, these comparisons are made between the base (pretrained) model and the retrained one on the new transport regime, and we discuss the importance of transfer learning in reduction of notably large prediction errors of the pretrained model.
COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF A REGIONAL LEADER’S IMAGE (BASED ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE MATERIALS OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE NIZHNY NOVGOROD REGION)
Authors:   Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod, Kaminchenko D. I.
Published: November 2023

The author studies the image of a regional leader in the communicative field of the Internet space. The objectives of the study are to establish thematic intentions in the symbolic content of the leader image, to display the ways of their implementation, as well as to identify the features of communication with other representatives of authorities and society. Based on the theory of the information society, the author analyzes the content of news messages posted on the official website of the Government of the Nizhny Novgorod Region for the period from November 27, 2021, to June 9, 2022, containing a mention of the head of the region. The study uses a set of applied methods, including quantitative content-analysis, network data analysis and linguistic analysis. The results of the study are visualized in the form of tag clouds and a thematic graph. The results show that the idea of goal achievement is the key one presented in the image of a political leader. The main topics of the image content were the interaction between authorities of various levels, economic development and construction, crisis management in the region, launching new projects and breakthrough decisions, and lastly close interaction between Russian regions and the center.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST, POLICY EFFECTIVENESS, AND ELECTORAL SUPPORT: EVIDENCE FROM A SURVEY EXPERIMENT
Authors:   HSE University, Sedashov E. A. , Krikunov K. A. ,   HSE University
Published: November 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the influence of the facts of conflict of interest on the electoral support of politicians. To identify causality in the Russian sample, a vignette experiment was conducted, in which respondents received various facts about the biography of candidates. Respondents were asked to answer questions about the attractiveness of politicians and the potential desire to vote for them based on the information received. According to the results of the study, it was found that the disclosure of the facts of the existence of a conflict of interest has a direct impact on the level of support for candidates in individual cases. The effect is significant if the politician has previously demonstrated high performance in the implementation of socio-economic policy. On the contrary, potential voters turned out to be tolerant of information about a conflict of interest in case of inefficiency of politicians in previous periods. The empirical results obtained are partially consistent with previous experiments in other countries and contribute to the discussion about building the election campaign of incumbents. Separately, the article highlights the methodological features of conducting experiments in the social sciences, including the potential limitations imposed by the chosen design on the interpretation of the empirical results obtained.
DETERMINANTS OF LEGISLATIVE EFFECTIVENESS OF RUSSIAN DEPUTIES: EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS
Authors:   Ural Federal University named after the first president of Russia B.N. Yeltsin, Mukhametov R. S.
Published: November 2023

The article evaluates the legislative effectiveness of parliamentarians in Russia. The author seeks to find answers to the question: what factors determine the legislative effectiveness of deputies? The article presents the results of assessing the impact of membership in the parliamentary majority party, formal status in the internal parliamentary hierarchy, work experience in legislatures, as well as legal education on legislative success. The study is grounded on the data on the "effectiveness" of deputies of two regional parliaments – St. Petersburg and the Kirov region. The work is based on regression analysis. The results of the study show that membership in the majority party, a position of a chairman of the committee or a leader of the majority party, as well as the previous experience in the legislative sphere are factors influencing the legislative success of a parliamentarian. Also, legislative efficiency rises with an increase of a deputy's term in office. The author concludes that the institutional characteristics that make some deputies more effective legislators than others are crucial for the development of a more profound understanding of political representation and public policy-making.