bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Evolutionary Masks of Love: Continuities between Judeo-Christian Religious Love and Modern Secular Love
Authors: Roche Cárcel Juan Antonio , Gil-Gimeno Javier
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to establish a series of links between some of the main religious formulas that arise in Judaism and Christianism and the romantic and confluent love characteristic of modern societies. To carry it out, firstly, we analyze love in historical Judaism, reflecting on the Ahavah formula, the predominant formula in this religious context. Secondly, to study the Christian drift of love, we first analyze how the emergence of this new religious faith (Christianism) provokes a change in the Jewish way of understanding it (love). Subsequently, we analyze some of the three main formulas in which love materializes in Christianism: Agape, Caritas, and Amor Sui. Regarding modern love, we first carry out a contextualization focused on the processes of secularization and individualization, and their impact on it. Afterwards, we present the main features that define both romantic and confluent love, and finally, we analyze the Judeo-Christian characters inherited for such types of love. The methodology used focused on a literature review and theoretical reflection based on this review. The research carried out allows us to establish sociological continuities between Judeo-Christian religious love and modern secular love in the terms used throughout the paper.
Social Media and the Spiritual Journey: The Place of Digital Technology in Enriching the Experience
Authors: Hussain Talib , Wang Dake
Published: May 2024

This qualitative study explores the utilization of social media among Pakistani pilgrims during spiritual journeys and investigates its impact on their pilgrimage experiences. Thirty Pakistani pilgrims who had embarked on spiritual journeys to various religious sites were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the interview transcripts, revealing five main stages of social media usage: pre-trip preparation, real-time updates and guidance, community building and support, sharing experiences and insights, and post-trip reflection and engagement. At each stage, social media played diverse roles, including providing information and support, fostering connections with fellow pilgrims, sharing personal experiences, and facilitating spiritual dialogue. This explorative study underscores the significance of social media in enhancing the pilgrimage experience for Pakistani pilgrims, serving as a valuable tool for information dissemination, community building, spiritual support, and personal reflection throughout the pilgrimage journey. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how social media shapes pilgrims’ experiences and fosters their spiritual growth, emphasizing the need for further research to explore the nuanced dynamics of social media usage in the context of pilgrimage. Overall, this study sheds light on the unique role of social media in the spiritual journeys of Pakistani pilgrims and highlights its implications for pilgrimage practices and the broader discourse on religious tourism.
Development of a High-Precision Lidar System and Improvement of Key Steps for Railway Obstacle Detection Algorithm
Authors: Nan Zongliang , Zhu Guoan , Zhang Xu , Lin Xuechun , Yang Yingying
Published: May 2024

In response to the growing demand for railway obstacle monitoring, lidar technology has emerged as an up-and-coming solution. In this study, we developed a mechanical 3D lidar system and meticulously calibrated the point cloud transformation to monitor specific areas precisely. Based on this foundation, we have devised a novel set of algorithms for obstacle detection within point clouds. These algorithms encompass three key steps: (a) the segmentation of ground point clouds and extraction of track point clouds using our RS-Lo-RANSAC (region select Lo-RANSAC) algorithm; (b) the registration of the BP (background point cloud) and FP (foreground point cloud) via an improved Robust ICP algorithm; and (c) obstacle recognition based on the VFOR (voxel-based feature obstacle recognition) algorithm from the fused point clouds. This set of algorithms has demonstrated robustness and operational efficiency in our experiments on a dataset obtained from an experimental field. Notably, it enables monitoring obstacles with dimensions of 15 cm × 15 cm × 15 cm. Overall, our study showcases the immense potential of lidar technology in railway obstacle monitoring, presenting a promising solution to enhance safety in this field.
Enhancing GNSS Deformation Monitoring Forecasting with a Combined VMD-CNN-LSTM Deep Learning Model
Authors: Xie Yilin , Meng Xiaolin , Wang Jun , Li Haiyang , Lu Xun , Ding Jinfeng , Jia Yushan , Yang Yin
Published: May 2024

Hydraulic infrastructures are susceptible to deformation over time, necessitating reliable monitoring and prediction methods. In this study, we address this challenge by proposing a novel approach based on the combination of Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) methods for Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) deformation monitoring and prediction modeling. The VMD method is utilized to decompose the complex deformation signals into intrinsic mode functions, which are then fed into a CNN method for feature extraction. The extracted features are input into an LSTM method to capture temporal dependencies and make predictions. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed VMD-CNN-LSTM method exhibits an improvement by about 75%. This research contributes to the advancement of deformation monitoring technologies in water conservancy engineering, offering a promising solution for proactive maintenance and risk mitigation strategies.
Critical Analysis of Data Leakage in WiFi CSI-Based Human Action Recognition Using CNNs
Authors: Varga Domonkos
Published: May 2024

WiFi Channel State Information (CSI)-based human action recognition using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) has emerged as a promising approach for non-intrusive activity monitoring. However, the integrity and reliability of the reported performance metrics are susceptible to data leakage, wherein information from the test set inadvertently influences the training process, leading to inflated accuracy rates. In this paper, we conduct a critical analysis of a notable IEEE Sensors Journal study on WiFi CSI-based human action recognition, uncovering instances of data leakage resulting from the absence of subject-based data partitioning. Empirical investigation corroborates the lack of exclusivity of individuals across dataset partitions, underscoring the importance of rigorous data management practices. Furthermore, we demonstrate that employing data partitioning with respect to humans results in significantly lower precision rates than the reported 99.9% precision, highlighting the exaggerated nature of the original findings. Such inflated results could potentially discourage other researchers and impede progress in the field by fostering a sense of complacency.
The Development of a New Vagus Nerve Simulation Electroceutical to Improve the Signal Attenuation in a Living Implant Environment
Authors: Jo Daeil , Lee Hyunung , Jang Youlim , Oh Paul , Kwon Yongjin
Published: May 2024

An electroceutical is a medical device that uses electrical signals to control biological functions. It can be inserted into the human body as an implant and has several crucial advantages over conventional medicines for certain diseases. This research develops a new vagus nerve simulation (VNS) electroceutical through an innovative approach to overcome the communication limitations of existing devices. A phased array antenna with a better communication performance was developed and applied to the electroceutical prototype. In order to effectively respond to changes in communication signals, we developed the steering algorithm and firmware, and designed the smart communication protocol that operates at a low power that is safe for the patients. This protocol is intended to improve a communication sensitivity related to the transmission and reception distance. Based on this technical approach, the heightened effectiveness and safety of the prototype have been ascertained, with the actual clinical tests using live animals. We confirmed the signal attenuation performance to be excellent, and a smooth communication was achieved even at a distance of 7 m. The prototype showed a much wider communication range than any other existing products. Through this, it is conceivable that various problems due to space constraints can be resolved, hence presenting many benefits to the patients whose last resort to the disease is the VNS electroceutical.
A GM-JMNS-CPHD Filter for Different-Fields-of-View Stochastic Outlier Selection for Nonlinear Motion Tracking
Authors: Wang Liu , Zhao Jian , Shi Lijuan , Liu Yuan , Zhang Jing
Published: May 2024

Most multi-target movements are nonlinear in the process of movement. The common multi-target tracking filtering methods directly act on the multi-target tracking system of nonlinear targets, and the fusion effect is worse under the influence of different perspectives. Aiming to determine the influence of different perspectives on the fusion accuracy of multi-sensor tracking in the process of target tracking, this paper studies the multi-target tracking fusion strategy of a nonlinear system with different perspectives. A GM-JMNS-CPHD fusion technique is introduced for random outlier selection in multi-target tracking, leveraging sensors with limited views. By employing boundary segmentation from distinct perspectives, the posterior intensity function undergoes decomposition into multiple sub-intensities through SOS clustering. The distribution of target numbers within the respective regions is then characterized by the multi-Bernoulli reconstruction cardinal distribution. Simulation outcomes demonstrate the robustness and efficacy of this approach. In comparison to other algorithms, this method exhibits enhanced robustness even amidst a decreased detection probability and heightened clutter rates.
Reducing Tyre Wear Emissions of Automated Articulated Vehicles through Trajectory Planning
Authors: Papaioannou Georgios , Maroof Vallan , Jerrelind Jenny , Drugge Lars
Published: May 2024

Effective emission control technologies and eco-friendly propulsion systems have been developed to decrease exhaust particle emissions. However, more work must be conducted on non-exhaust traffic-related sources such as tyre wear. The advent of automated vehicles (AVs) enables researchers and automotive manufacturers to consider ways to further decrease tyre wear, as vehicles will be controlled by the system rather than by the driver. In this direction, this work presents the formulation of an optimal control problem for the trajectory optimisation of automated articulated vehicles for tyre wear minimisation. The optimum velocity profile is sought for a predefined road path from a specific starting point to a final one to minimise tyre wear in fixed time cases. Specific boundaries and constraints are applied to the problem to ensure the vehicle’s stability and the feasibility of the solution. According to the results, a small increase in the journey time leads to a significant decrease in the mass loss due to tyre wear. The employment of articulated vehicles with low powertrain capabilities leads to greater tyre wear, while excessive increases in powertrain capabilities are not required. The conclusions pave the way for AV researchers and manufacturers to consider tyre wear in their control modules and come closer to the zero-emission goal.
Research on the Influence of Cultural Memory in Agricultural Heritage on Brand Loyalty
Authors: Liang Jingxuan , Zhang Sunbowen , Lu Lu
Published: May 2024

Agricultural heritage includes both material and immaterial vestiges of past agricultural practices that are directly tied to human agriculture. It holds great ecological, cultural, commercial, and tourism value. There are not many historical sites available for developing agricultural heritage tourism right now, and no experience is ideal. This study used sophisticated PLS-SEM techniques and SmartPLS 3.3.9 software to carefully examine data, examine measurement and structural models, rigorously test hypotheses, determine the validity and reliability of the findings, and investigate potential moderating effects. To address the critical issue of brand loyalty in agricultural heritage tourism, this study developed and tested a comprehensive impact route, which was supported by an examination of 427 visitors’ cultural memories and brand experiences, demonstrating their critical role in influencing brand loyalty. The findings show the importance of cultural memory in shaping travelers’ brand experiences and loyalty. Furthermore, due to their unique characteristics, various groups react differently to each phase of the brand loyalty effect route.
Raw Material Stage Assessment of Seating Elements as Urban Furniture and Eco-Model Proposals
Authors: Sipahi Serkan , Sipahi Merve
Published: May 2024

As cities strive to become sustainable, it is imperative to consider even the smallest components of the urban environment and prioritize sustainability. Ensuring the sustainability of urban furniture, especially the numerous benches found in cities, is crucial. This study proposes an alternative solution to the sustainability issue in cities regarding urban furniture. This is because a review of the literature indicates that while efforts have been made to evaluate the sustainability of urban amenities and furniture, studies conducting life cycle analysis specifically for urban furniture are lacking. This study will contribute to the identified gap in the literature by analyzing 14 different seating elements in recreational areas located in the city of Rize, Turkey, using the Ccalc program to calculate their carbon footprints. In the subsequent phase of this study, an eco-design process will be conducted based on the findings, aiming to create an eco-seating unit design. Based on the data obtained, materials with high environmental impact were identified, material replacement recommendations were made, and consequently, a model proposal was presented. The potential reduction in carbon footprints with the use of transformed materials was discussed. The findings revealed that carbon footprint values were particularly high in the seating units where concrete and polypropylene materials were used. Additionally, it was determined that solvent paint, especially varnish, affects the carbon footprint, and it was recommended that would be used in its natural form, which is eco-friendly. In conclusion, the recommendations developed for the sustainability of urban furniture in coastal areas will contribute to the future of cities and humanity.
Tracer Gas Method Evaluation for Assessing the Energy Potential of Biogas from Chicken Farms in the Canary Islands
Authors: Asensio-Ramos María , Melián Gladys V. , Padrón Eleazar , Hernández Pedro A. , Pérez Nemesio M. , Peraza Cano José Luis
Published: May 2024

Biodigestion in farming and agriculture offers environmental and economic benefits, but investing in biodigesters carries real-world risks for enterprises. This study analyzes methane (CH4) emissions from a poultry farm biodigester in Tenerife Island, Canary Islands, Spain, conceptualized as a right-angled prism measuring 45 m wide, 25 m long, and 12 m tall, with an internal volume of approximately 13,500 m3. Using a Neon tracer gas technique, CH4 emission rates were quantified in situ during two surveys in February 2021 and October 2022, capturing seasonal variability in ambient conditions. Biogas analysis was performed using a portable micro-gas chromatograph in less than 5 min, revealing stable CH4 production rates of approximately 200 kg·d−1 (~310 m3·d−1) and 330 kg·d−1 (~500 m3·d−1) for the two experiments, respectively. The composition of biogas indicated CH4 concentrations of around 38–43%, with the remaining composition consisting of carbon dioxide (19–26%), nitrogen (36–27%), oxygen (7–4%), and trace amounts of other gases. A comparison with a theoretical model showed a good correlation. This approach enhances biodigester investment attractiveness by enabling enterprises to optimize efficiency promptly. The obtained data were used to estimate the energy potential of biogas from chicken farms in the Canary Islands.
Multimodal Framework for Smart Building Occupancy Detection
Authors: Abuhussain Mohammed Awad , Alotaibi Badr Saad , Dodo Yakubu Aminu , Maghrabi Ammar , Aliero Muhammad Saidu
Published: May 2024

Over the years, building appliances have become the major energy consumers to improve indoor air quality and occupants’ lifestyles. The primary energy usage in building sectors, particularly lighting, Heating, Ventilation, and Air conditioning (HVAC) equipment, is expected to double in the upcoming years due to inappropriate control operation activities. Recently, several researchers have provided an automated solution to turn HVAC and lighting on when the space is being occupied and off when the space becomes vacant. Previous studies indicate a lack of publicly accessible datasets for environmental sensing and suggest developing holistic models that detect buildings’ occupancy. Additionally, the reliability of their solutions tends to decrease as the occupancy grows in a building. Therefore, this study proposed a machine learning-based framework for smart building occupancy detection that considered the lighting parameter in addition to the HVAC parameter used in the existing studies. We employed a parametric classifier to ensure a strong correlation between the predicting parameters and the occupancy prediction model. This study uses a machine learning model that combines direct and environmental sensing techniques to obtain high-quality training data. The analysis of the experimental results shows high accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score of the applied RF model (0.86, 0.99, 1.0, and 0.88 respectively) for occupancy prediction and substantial energy saving.
Carbon Emission Analysis and Reporting in Urban Emissions: An Analysis of the Greenhouse Gas Inventories and Climate Action Plans in Sarıçam Municipality
Authors: Davutluoğlu Orkun , Yavuzdeğer Abdurrahman , Esenboğa Burak , Demirdelen Özge , Tümay Ateş Kübra , Demirdelen Tuğçe
Published: May 2024

The urban carbon footprint (UCF) is an important tool for assessing an organization’s ecological impacts and in guiding sustainability efforts. This calculation is usually measured in tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-eq). Calculations provide important data to determine strategies to reduce the carbon footprint and establish sustainability targets. Various standards and protocols guide UCF calculation, and many organizations aim to make these data transparent to their stakeholders and the public. This study aims to calculate the UCF of Sarıçam Municipality (SM) in the Adana Province of Türkiye. This study includes the greenhouse gas emission inventories resulting from all activities of the SM main service building, guest house, construction site service building, Cultural Center service building, and additional service buildings between 1 January 2022 and 31 December 2022. The calculations include generator fuel consumption, electricity consumption, the refrigerant gas leaks and refills resulting from these activities, the fuel consumed in vehicles owned by the company or whose fuel consumption is under company control, emissions originating from personal travel, emissions originating from customers and visitors, emissions originating from business travel, purchases, etc. Emissions from products purchased and emissions from waste transportation are included. The findings show that, in 2022, the total UCF of SM was equal to 10,862.46 tons of CO2-eq. The Paris Agreement aims to reduce the per capita emissions to approximately two tons of CO2-eq by 2030. The carbon footprint per employee within the municipality was calculated at 12.43 tons of CO2-eq, as derived from the analyzed data. The results reveal the importance of implementing sustainable practices and strategies within SM, such as energy efficiency measures, waste reduction, and the adoption of renewable energy sources, to mitigate its carbon footprint. This study plans to provide a basis for SM’s reduction efforts by keeping greenhouse gas emissions under control.
Issues of Water Resources in Saudi Arabia: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Suhail Mohammad , Faraj Turki Kh. , Ahmad Waseem , Ravshanov Alikul Xudayberdiyevich , Khan Mohd Nazish
Published: May 2024

The present paper addresses a comprehensive historical assessment of water consumption, demand, and supply in Saudi Arabia, along with future projections regarding water balance, in terms of demand and supply by source in various sectors. Being an arid region, Saudi Arabia experiences scorching heat, low precipitation, a high rate of potential evaporation, and the absence of permanent water bodies over the territory. Groundwater contributes almost 61% of total available water, while the recharge rate is negligible. However, few widyan (ephemeral streams) systems exists to satisfy water demand, which could contribute to approximately one year of domestic water consumption if managed efficiently. The study also predicts water consumption scenarios for the next three consecutive development plans, i.e., the 10th plan (2015–2019), 11th plan (2020–2024), and 12th plan (2025–2029). The analysis shows that water consumption may decline significantly in the future, if the present rate of decline continues. Scenario I, if the current rate is assumed, provides a decrease in consumption of 14.36, 12.66, and 11.15 BCM for 10th, 11th, and 12th plans, respectively. Moreover, the domestic and industrial sectors will consume more water in the future. In the same way, scenarios II and III represent a decline in total water consumption, along with that of agriculture, while domestic and industrial water usage would increase, thus improving environmental sustainability.
Unveiling Peru’s Agricultural Diversity: Navigating Historical and Future Trends in a Post-COVID-19 Context
Authors: Chavez Segundo G. , Arellanos Erick , Veneros Jaris , Rojas-Briceño Nilton B. , Oliva-Cruz Manuel , Bolaños-Carriel Carlos , García Ligia
Published: May 2024

Over a comprehensive 5-year assessment, and extrapolating it prospectively until 2025, a thorough examination was conducted of productive agrobiodiversity in nine rural agricultural districts across Peru. The present study involved in-depth interviews with 180 representative farmers of the Coast, Highlands, and Jungle natural regions. Employing the Shannon–Weiner diversity index and the Margalef species richness index, the dynamics within years and across different zones were analyzed. Utilizing quadratic trend models, we assessed the frequency of each crop, aiming for the optimal fit concerning absolute deviation from the mean, mean squared deviation, and mean absolute percentage error. These findings revealed five distinct crop types—tuberous, fruits, cereals, legumes, and roots—distributed across 25 diverse families. Looking ahead to 2025, our projections indicated positive trends in 15 families and negative trends in 9 crop families. The nuanced mathematical distinctions observed in crop management decisions varied significantly depending on the specific area and year, underscoring the importance of localized considerations in agricultural planning.
A Multi-Approach and Collaborative Pathway towards Designing Climate Strategies: The Case of Trentino, a Mountainous Region in Italy
Authors: Gretter Alessandro , Nikologianni Anastasia , Betta Alessandro , Lugli Linda , Laiti Lavinia , Barbiero Roberto
Published: May 2024

Mountainous and rural territories are considered among the most vulnerable to the effects of the Climate Crisis. Their geographical and topographical conditions, together with the complexity of the system of relations between human and natural elements, amplify the impacts and risks associated with extreme climatic events. Therefore, the consequences on the socio-economic fabric are systemic and require an immediate response from all the actors in a region. Public administration and politics can play a pivotal role within the planning framework in contrasting the impacts of the climate crisis. This paper demonstrates the multi-level and multi-stakeholder approach applied during the development process of a regional adaptation strategy. The Autonomous Province of Trento has initiated an innovative approach to understanding and managing the effects of the climate crisis on its landscape and resources and has aligned the process of definition of its long-term strategy with the guidance provided by the EU Commission and the Italian Government. The methodology used is based on the tools provided by the Climate-ADAPT platform (in particular, the Regional Adaptation Support Tool—RAST), and the “impact chains” method is specifically implemented for climate risk assessment. The RAST is applied according to a multi-stakeholder and multi-level approach to capitalise on previously established and ongoing initiatives and working groups. The research suggests that the Climate Strategy model presented in this paper needs to be at the core of the broader framework adopted by the Autonomous Province of Trento and that it can represent an important example for other regions aiming to actively involve local stakeholders in acting for climate neutrality and resilience.
Study on Household-Level Electricity Consumption of Domestic Consumers in Romania: The Need to Check the Electrical Installation
Authors: Spunei Elisabeta , Frumușanu Nătălița-Mihaela , Martin Mihaela
Published: May 2024

With technological development and the decrease in the price of electrical appliances for domestic consumers, combined with users’ desire for a certain level of comfort, the number of electrical devices in homes has increased. Although current equipment is largely energy-efficient, the high number of these devices, used simultaneously, has led to an increase in electricity consumption. Electrical installation in homes has been replaced in most cases, but the connections have remained the same, without any checks being carried out in terms of load and operational safety. This paper presents an exploratory case study based on a questionnaire answered by 678 individuals from Romania. The objectives of the questionnaire were to identify the characteristics of the domestic consumer and their opinion on the state of the installation, energy costs, and energy consumption. Based on the analysis, 74.15% of the respondents stated that the power installed in their homes as domestic consumers increased. Based on the analysis conducted on-site, the risk of fire outbreaks in the power supply columns of apartment buildings was identified. To avoid critical situations, it is necessary to periodically check the connection and supply columns so that they are functional and safe to operate.
Marine Suitability Assessment for Offshore Wind Farms’ Deployment in Thrace, Greece
Authors: Gazos Konstantinos , Vagiona Dimitra G.
Published: May 2024

The exploitation of renewable energy resources is an effective option to respond to climate change challenges. Wind energy can be exploited more efficiently and effectively than any other renewable energy source. By switching from onshore wind energy projects to offshore, the positive aspects of onshore wind energy remain and, at the same time, no valuable onshore area is occupied, while their efficiency (e.g., capacity factor) is increased. Greece has a rich wind potential and the maritime region of Thrace is one of Greece’s maritime regions with the greatest potential for the development of offshore wind energy. The aim of the present paper is to identify the most appropriate sites for the deployment of offshore wind farms in the region of Thrace. The methodology includes (i) the delineation of the study area and the definition of the support structure of the wind turbine, (ii) the identification of seven (7) exclusion and fifteen (15) assessment criteria, (iii) the suitability analysis under five different zoning scenarios (equal weight, environmental, social, techno-economic, and researchers’ subjective), and (iv) the micro siting and qualitative assessment of the most suitable sites based on energy, environmental, social, and economic criteria. The methodology is based on the combined use of Geographical Information Systems (GISs), specifically ArcGIS Desktop version 10.8.1, wind assessment software tools (WaSPs), specifically WaSP version 12.8, and multi-criteria decision-making methods. The results of the paper illustrate that the optimal suitability area that is proposed for offshore wind farm deployment is located at the easternmost end of the Greek part of the Thracian Sea. The planning and the deployment of offshore wind farm projects should follow a holistic and environmentally driven approach to ensure the integrity of all habitats and species affected.
Comparison of Five Serological Methods for the Detection of West Nile Virus Antibodies
Authors: Girl Philipp , Euringer Kathrin , Coroian Mircea , Mihalca Andrei Daniel , Borde Johannes P. , Dobler Gerhard
Published: May 2024

The West Nile Virus (WNV), a member of the family Flaviviridae, is an emerging mosquito-borne flavivirus causing potentially severe infections in humans and animals involving the central nervous system (CNS). Due to its emerging tendency, WNV now occurs in many areas where other flaviviruses are co-occurring. Cross-reactive antibodies with flavivirus infections or vaccination (e.g., tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), Usutu virus (USUV), yellow fever virus (YFV), dengue virus (DENV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV)) therefore remain a major challenge in diagnosing flavivirus infections. Virus neutralization tests are considered as reference tests for the detection of specific flavivirus antibodies, but are elaborate, time-consuming and need biosafety level 3 facilities. A simple and straightforward assay for the differentiation and detection of specific WNV IgG antibodies for the routine laboratory is urgently needed. In this study, we compared two commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (anti-IgG WNV ELISA and anti-NS1-IgG WNV), a commercially available indirect immunofluorescence assay, and a newly developed in-house ELISA for the detection of WNV-NS1-IgG antibodies. All four tests were compared to an in-house NT to determine both the sensitivity and specificity of the four test systems. None of the assays could match the specificity of the NT, although the two NS1-IgG based ELISAs were very close to the specificity of the NT at 97.3% and 94.6%. The in-house WNV-NS1-IgG ELISA had the best performance regarding sensitivity and specificity. The specificities of the ELISA assays and the indirect immunofluorescence assays could not meet the necessary specificity and/or sensitivity.
Exploring Fundamentals of Prion Biology Using Natural Yeast Prions and Mammalian PrP
Authors: Derkatch Irina L. , Liebman Susan W.
Published: May 2024

The key postulate of the prion paradigm is that some proteins can take on unconventional conformations and pass these conformations to newly synthesized protein molecules with the same primary structure [...]
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Using Henipavirus-Receptor EphrinB2 and Monoclonal Antibodies for Detecting Nipah and Hendra Viruses
Authors: Zhu Wenjun , Smith Greg , Pickering Bradley , Banadyga Logan , Yang Ming
Published: May 2024

The Nipah virus (NiV) and the Hendra virus (HeV) are highly pathogenic zoonotic diseases that can cause fatal infections in humans and animals. Early detection is critical for the control of NiV and HeV infections. We present the development of two antigen-detection ELISAs (AgELISAs) using the henipavirus-receptor EphrinB2 and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to detect NiV and HeV. The NiV AgELISA detected only NiV, whereas the NiV/HeV AgELISA detected both NiV and HeV. The diagnostic specificities of the NiV AgELISA and the NiV/HeV AgELISA were 100% and 97.8%, respectively. Both assays were specific for henipaviruses and showed no cross-reactivity with other viruses. The AgELISAs detected NiV antigen in experimental pig nasal wash samples taken at 4 days post-infection. With the combination of both AgELISAs, NiV can be differentiated from HeV. Complementing other henipavirus detection methods, these two newly developed AgELISAs can rapidly detect NiV and HeV in a large number of samples and are suitable for use in remote areas where other tests are not available.
Multi-Objective Synergetic Operation for Cascade Reservoirs in the Upper Yellow River
Authors: Hong Kunhui , Zhang Wei , Ma Aixing , Wei Yucong , Cao Mingxiong
Published: May 2024

The Yellow River, a critical water resource, faces challenges stemming from increasing water demand, which has led to detrimental effects on hydropower generation and ecological balance. This paper will address the complex task of balancing the interests of hydropower generation, water supply, and ecology within the context of cascade reservoirs, specifically Longyangxia and Liujiaxia reservoirs. Employing a systemic coupling coordination approach, we constructed a multi-objective synergetic model of the upper Yellow River in order to explore synergies and competitions among multiple objectives. The results reveal that there is a weak competitive relationship between hydropower generation and water supply, a strong synergy between hydropower generation and ecology, and a strong competitive relationship between water supply and ecology. The Pareto solution set analysis indicates a considerable percentage (59%, 20%, and 8% in wet, normal, and dry years, respectively) exhibiting excellent coordination. The probability of excellent coordination decreases with diminishing inflow. The optimization scheme with the highest coupling coordination demonstrates significant improvements in power generation, water supply, and ecological benefits in the upper Yellow River without compromising other objectives, fostering the sustainable operation of hydropower generation, water supply, and ecology in the upper Yellow River.
Proinflammatory cytokine shift and changes in lymphocyte activation markers in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis and reproductive dysfunction
Authors:   Tashkent Medical Academy, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Ismailova G. A. , Khegay O. A. ,   Bless Med Clinic, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Published: May 2024

The article is devoted to the problem of autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT), a disease of the thyroid gland, which is quite common in women and ranks first in the structure of causрm es of irregular periods, infertility, and miscarriage. The clinical characteristics and analysis of indicators of thyroid status, cytokine profile, and lymphocyte activation markers in 80 patients with autoimmune thyroiditis and reproductive dysfunction are presented. The obрm tained results indicate various thyroid disorders in patients with AIT, in particular, the levels of TPO and ATG antibodies were increased by 98 and 39 times, respectively, relative to the control; the level of IL-1ѓА was 10 times higher, IL-6.16 times higher, the concentration of TNF-ѓї.. more than 13 times higher, and the level of IL-18 was 1.9 times lower in patients with AIT compared with the values obtained in the patients with impaired reproductive funcрm tion without thyroid pathology. The research results prove the undeniable pathogenetic role of cytokines and lymphocyte activation markers in the development of the AIT inflammatory process.
Computer addiction: challenges and consequences
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «South Ural State Humanitarian Pedagogical University», Krylov A. P.
Published: May 2024

Awareness of the problem of computer addiction is a key step towards overcoming it. This process involves comprehending the negative consequences and impact that computer and internet addiction can have on social behavior and health. The author recommends considering the issue of addiction in detail, taking into account a number of psychological approaches to the subject or patient with computer addiction.
Features of pharyngoscopic changes in the palatine tonsils
Authors:   OOO «Meditsina AlfaStrakhovaniya», Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Kalinkina M. I.
Published: May 2024

Diseases of the pharynx are a common pathology that doctors of various specialties encounter in everyday practice. Many of these diseases are difficult to diagnose although the pharynx is easily accessible for examination. The article describes the most frequently identified pharyngoscopic symptoms of diseases of the palatine tonsils: plaque, tonsillar detritus accumulation, tonsillar keratin cysts, asymmetry of the palatine tonsils, as well as the most important differential diagnostic signs that facilitate the interpretation of these symptoms in the diagnostic process. In addition, data from morphological studies of pathological elements of the tonsils are presented.
Lean manufacturing tools: how they can improve product quality
Authors:   GeoSM Group, Nizhny Novgorod, Nekorkin V. V.
Published: May 2024

The lean production method is considered to solve the current problem of large production losses of domestic companies. The main tools, systems, philosophies and concepts are listed and described, as well as an example of the use of lean manufacturing for a specific сompany — GeoSM Group of Companies, a manufacturer and supplier of geosynthetic materials.
Implementation of import substitution of high-tech equipment for the concrete industry at the enterprise
Authors:   JSC ", Batysheva M. V. ,   Yarstroytekhnika",   , Yaroslavl
Published: May 2024

The article presents a description of the stages of work and technical innovations of a domestic equipment manufacturer in the concrete industry under sanctions. The need to create our own equipment and components allowed production to reach a new level.
How the Russian RITM³ platform helps manage transport in factories
Authors:   Simetra company, Moscow, Russia, Petrovsky D. N.
Published: May 2024

The Russian transport industry faces challenges related to import substitution of foreign IT solutions and deeper automation of business processes. The domestic platform RITM³ for analysis, planning and management of traffic flows solves these problems at the level of cities, regions and industrial facilities
Automation of business processes: how to avoid mistakes at the initial stage
Authors:   JSC ", Bormatova S.S. ,   Greenatom Simple Solutions",   , Moscow
Published: May 2024

In modern conditions, the transition of companies from a functional to a process model of doing business is becoming a common practice. As a rule, this is done to solve several important problems at once. The process model helps to increase the competitiveness of an enterprise by improving the quality of products or services provided. In addition, with the introduction of a process model, the company's productivity increases while reducing costs in the production process or provision of services. Transparency and effective management of all business processes of the enterprise are also ensured. The author analyzed how to automate processes and improve service, taking into account the attractiveness of trade offers for customers.
Effective management of business processes in the modern world
Authors:   LLC “Neo Lady”, Vinberg M. V. ,   IT-entrepreneur. Institute of Psychoanalysis. Moscow
Published: May 2024

The article examines the key aspects of effective business process management in modern conditions. Emphasizes the importance of analyzing and optimizing work processes as the key to increasing company productivity and profitability. Provides an overview of the benefits of business process management, including increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved customer service. A systematic approach to building such a system is described, including process mapping, implementation of regulations and the use of modern technologies. The impact of enterprise modernization and organizational changes on the efficiency of business processes is also considered. In addition, attention is paid to the role of people in this process, emphasizing the importance of staff training and developing a culture of continuous improvement. Finally, the article analyzes Key Performance Indicators of business processes and recommendations for conducting internal audit.
EKF Connect Industry digital platform for efficient operation of manufacturing plants
Authors:   EKF, Russia, Moscow, Eltsov A. A. , Pirogov P. V. ,   EKF, Russia, Moscow
Published: May 2024

The decline in the supply of digital solutions for monitoring and supervisory control of technological processes in the domestic market has given Russian companies an incentive to begin developing their own cost-effective information systems and cloud solutions. EKF experts have developed the EKF Connect Industry Internet of Things platforms. The IIoT analytical platform has become part of the EKF Connect cloud product ecosystem. The EKF Connect Industry cloud platform is a smart solution for industrial enterprises that need process control, which does not require the purchase of expensive additional equipment, and does not require additional highly qualified specialists to maintain it.
About the prospects for reducing duration working week in Russia
Authors:   Procurement Department of Equipment and Basic Materials of Goznak JSC, Moscow, Pleschenko V.I.
Published: May 2024

For almost five years now, the country has been discussing possible options for reducing the length of the working week, but no practical implementation of the initiatives put forward has yet been observed. At the same time, the multiple increase in the number of proposals in the current year, as well as the start of pilot projects of individual companies to transfer workers to a four-day work week, may indicate gradual preparation of the ground for changes in labor legislation in the foreseeable future.
Dynamics of milk productivity of cows depending on the method of housing and the calving season
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Penza State Agrarian University”, Russia, Penza, Shishkina T. V. , Zykina E. A. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Penza State Agrarian University”, Russia, Penza, Dmitrieva S. Yu. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Penza State Agrarian University”, Russia, Penza, Semikova N. M. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Penza State Agrarian University”, Russia, Penza
Published: May 2024

The results of the dynamics of milk productivity of cows depending on the method of housing and calving season have been presented in the paper. Under the conditions of the Educational and Experimental Farm “Ramzai” of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Penza State Agrarian University”, a stall and pasture system and tie-up housing of cows is used. In CJSC “Konstantinovo” a stall system and free-stall method of housing of cows is used with using separate boxes for the animals. For research, animals were divided into groups depending on the method of housing and calving time. Analysis of the average monthly milk yield of fi rst-calf heifers showed that, in general, their dynamics were the same. However, animals housed in free-stall and calved in the spring-summer period showed higher productivity rates, exceeding on average other groups of animals by 124 kg or 20 %. The highest productivity values in the fi rst three months of lactation were in cows of the 1st group, housed in free-stall method. In relation to milk yield for the fi rst 3 months to milk yield for 305 days of lactation, the fluctuations ranged from 19 to 35 % with free-stall housing, and from 26 to 34 % with tie-up housing. It was revealed on the base of study of the milk productivity of cows for 305 days of lactation that the highest indicators were obtained from cows housed in free-stall method 6127–6845 kg of milk, while with the tie-up method of housing 4870–5020 kg only. When assessing the lactation activity of cows by month of lactation, it was found that both the method of housing and the calving season of cows influence milk productivity and the dynamics of milk yield by month of lactation. At the same time, cows housed in freestall method had higher productivity and a stable lactation curve.
Indicators of tasting evaluation of broiler meat quality under the influence of feed factor
Authors:   Siberian Scientifi c and Research Institute of Poultry Farming – a branch of the Federal State Budget Scientifi c Institution “Omsk Agrarian Scientifi c Center”, Russia, Omsk region, Morozovka, Amiranashvili E. I. , Yadrishchenskaya O. А. ,   Siberian Scientifi c and Research Institute of Poultry Farming – a branch of the Federal State Budget Scientifi c Institution “Omsk Agrarian Scientifi c Center”, Russia, Omsk region, Morozovka, Selina T. V. ,   Siberian Scientifi c and Research Institute of Poultry Farming – a branch of the Federal State Budget Scientifi c Institution “Omsk Agrarian Scientifi c Center”, Russia, Omsk region, Morozovka, Basova E. A. ,   Siberian Scientifi c and Research Institute of Poultry Farming – a branch of the Federal State Budget Scientifi c Institution “Omsk Agrarian Scientifi c Center”, Russia, Omsk region, Morozovka, Shpynova S. A. ,   Siberian Scientific and Research Institute of Poultry Farming – a branch of the Federal State Budget Scientifi c Institution “Omsk Agrarian Scientifi c Center”, Russia, Omsk region, Morozovka
Published: May 2024

Poultry meat occupies a large share in human nutrition. The issues of the taste of broiler chicken meat as a food product under the infl uence of feeding, in our opinion, have not been suffi ciently studied. The purpose of the research was to study the indicators of tasting evaluation of the quality of broiler chicken meat under the infl uence of the feed factor. Four series of studies were carried out on the organoleptic evaluation of the quality of meat of broiler chickens of the cross Sibiryak 2C that eceived feed with various feed ingredients. Groups of broiler chickens were formed at one day old according to the principle of analogues. Experimental feeds were fed from one day to 42 days of age. In order to determine the organoleptic evaluation of the quality of meat of broiler chickens under the infl uence of the feed factor, the poultry was slaughtered at 42 days of age, followed by tasting of the broth and boiled meat. In the fi rst experiment, the use of camelina presscake made it possible to obtain high-quality broth and meat (the overall score was 0,2–1,0 points higher than the control). In the second study, fl axseed presscake was used in feeding broiler chickens. A positive relationship was noted between the introduction of 15 and 20 % fl axseed presscake and the indicators of organoleptic evaluation of the quality of boiled meat, but the higher the percentage of input of the feed protein ingredient, the lower the evaluation of meat quality according to a set of indicators. During the third experiment on the use of various vegetable oils, a positive eff ect was discovered from the increased introduction of rapeseed, rubsen-seed, linseed or soybean oils into the compound feed. It was found according to the results of the fourth research that the introduction of 25 % rapeseed presscake or 25 % rapeseed fl our into compound feed allowed us to obtain broth and meat with the highest tasting scores.