bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Contribution of Learner Characteristics and Perceived Learning to Students’ Satisfaction and Academic Performance during COVID-19
Authors: Butt Sameera , Mahmood Asif , Saleem Saima , Murtaza Shah Ali , Hassan Sana , Molnár Edina
Published: January 2023

With the rapid spread of COVID-19 worldwide, governments of all countries declared the closure of educational institutions to control its transmission. As a result, institutions were under pressure to offer online education opportunities so that students could continue their education without interruption. The unintended, hasty and unknown duration of the strategy encountered challenges at all pedagogical levels, especially for students who felt stressed out by this abrupt shift, resulting in the decline of their academic performance. Hence, it is necessary to comprehend the approach that might improve students’ involvement and performance in online learning. In this context, the current study used four models to understand the phenomenon: the Task Technology Fit (TTF), the DeLone and McLean Model of Information Systems Success (DMISM), the Technology-to-Performance Chain model (TPC) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The data for this study were obtained from 404 university students from the top ten universities of Pakistan. The results analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) show that learner characteristics positively predict performance through user satisfaction and task technology fit mediating function. Moreover, learner characteristics were also observed to have a significant positive influence on the academic performance of the students, with the mediating functions of user satisfaction and actual usage of the system. Likewise, perceived learning moderated the relationship between learner characteristics and user satisfaction. This research work provides policymakers with a profound framework that emphasizes how employing online learning technologies can strengthen the academic potential of students.
Model Study of Mechanicochemical Degradation in a Planetary Ball Mill
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Liu Xitao , Zhao Jianguo , Sun Wenjun , Zhang Yuanna , Qiao Jun , Xing Guoqiang , Wang Xiaoshu
Published: January 2023

The process of ball milling and the materials that compose planetary ball mills are highly complex, and the existing research on the change in ball-milling energy is not mature. The theoretical model of a ball mill was established for the first time to simulate the motion, collision process, energy transfer, and temperature change of small balls during the ball-milling process. Furthermore, by comparing the information with the experimental data for a ball mill, the motion trajectory of the grinding ball, and the energy transfer between the balls and materials were studied, and the micro process during milling was discussed. This study provides a certain theoretical basis for the follow-up engineering application.
Research on Responsible Innovation Mechanism Based on Prospect Theory
Authors: Qu Xiaoyu , Wang Xiao , Qin Xutian
Published: January 2023

In 2020, the new crown pneumoniaCOVID-19 epidemic swept the world, and it still has an impact on the production and lifestyle of various countries. Guiding enterprises to implement responsible innovation can enable enterprises to shoulder social responsibilities while innovating, resist the impact of the epidemic, accelerate countries to get out of the haze of the epidemic, and promote high-quality economic development. In this paper, three typical subjects of government, enterprise, and consumer are selected to construct an evolutionary game model, and prospect theory is introduced to explore the strategic choices and influencing factors of the three parties. Through the numerical simulation of MATLAB software, the following conclusions are obtained: in the early stage of policy implementation, the enthusiasm of enterprises to implement responsible innovation is not high; with the implementation of policies and the continuation of time, the enthusiasm of enterprises gradually increases; and the supervision role of the government and consumers gradually decreases. Appropriate government incentives and disincentives will promote enterprises and consumers to participate in responsible innovation. This paper explores the game process of government, enterprises, and consumers from a dynamic perspective, explores the decision-making process of all parties under the prospect theory, reveals the implementation process of responsible innovation and the factors affecting responsible innovation, and provides a theoretical reference for the implementation of responsible innovation model.
Digital Preservation of Du Fu Thatched Cottage Memorial Garden
Authors: Guo Li , Xu Jiao , Li Jing , Zhu Zhanyuan
Published: January 2023

The Xishu Historical and Cultural Celebrity Memorial Gardens are representatives of southwestern regional gardens in China. Du Fu Thatched Cottage is one of the typical examples of these gardens, with exceptional memorial, historical, and cultural significance. However, compared to other gardens in China, few research has been conducted on their digital preservation and construction connotation. In this study, the digital model of Du Fu Thatched Cottage was obtained by terrestrial laser scanning and total station technology, and its memorial analysis and preservation were studied digitally. Using three levels of point, line, and surface analysis, we examined how to digitally deconstruct the commemorative elements of Du Fu Thatched Cottage that included the memorial theme, gardening components, and design philosophy of the garden space. The study revealed the memorial space core of the Historical and Cultural Celebrity Memorial Gardens in Xishu and proposed a strategy for building a digital preservation system. The research will help to digitally protect the Du Fu Thatched Cottage and analyze methods to memorialize other traditional gardens.
The Evolution of Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Economy: An Application of the Potential Dirichlet Allocation Model
Authors: Shan Chunyi , Wang Jun , Zhu Yongming
Published: January 2023

The most critical driver of the digital economy comes from breakthroughs in cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence. In order to promote technological innovation and layout in the field of artificial intelligence, this paper analyzes the patent text of artificial intelligence technology using the LDA topic model from the perspective of the patent technology subject based on Derwent patent data. The results reveal that AI technology is upgraded from chips, sensing, and algorithms to innovative platforms and intelligent applications. Proposed countermeasures are necessary to advance the digitalization of the global economy and to achieve economic globalization in terms of industrial integration, building ecological systems, and strengthening independent innovation.
System-Based Integrated Nutrient Management Improves Productivity, Profitability, Energy Use Efficiency and Soil Quality in Peanut-Wheat Cropping Sequence in Light Black Soils
Authors: Jat Ram A. , Jain Navin K. , Yadav Ranjit S. , Reddy Kiran K. , Choudhary Raja Ram , Zala Pratap V. , Meena Har N. , Sarkar Susheel , Rathore Sanjay S. , Sharma Gulshan K. , Kumawat Anita , Jinger Dinesh , Jha Prakash K.
Published: January 2023

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.), being an energy-rich crop, is sensitive to nutrient deficiencies and a scavenger of nutrients from the soil. Optimum and integrated nutrient management (INM) improves productivity and the quality of seeds. The objective of this study was to identify suitable system-based INM (S-INM) options for peanut–wheat cropping sequence in the Saurashtra region of India. Results showed that peanut growth, yield attributing parameters, pod, and haulm yield, and NPK uptake were higher when 100% recommended fertilizer doses (RDFs) + farmyard manure (FYM) @5 t/ha + plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) were applied. However, application of 75% RDFs + FYM @5 t/ha + PGPR in peanut and 100% RDF in wheat was most effective to improve growth and yield attributes, yields and nutrient uptake by wheat. Further, this FYM- and PGPR-amended treatment was found to increase system productivity by 15.3 and 17.1%, system profitability by 17.0 and 22.6%, and net energy gain by 10.0 and 17.9% over the reference treatment and over farmers’ practice (FF), respectively. This sustainable system approach will be helpful for agronomists and farmers in identifying and practicing suitable field practices with further study on the residual effect of organic manures on the peanut–wheat based cropping system in the western region of India with light black soils.
Sustainable Health Care Provision Worldwide: Is There a Necessary Trade-Off between Cost and Quality?
Authors: Ranabhat Chhabi Lal , Jakovljevic Mihajlo
Published: January 2023

Quality health care is an essential human right, on the agenda of sustainable development and presents a challenge in the twenty-first century. There are different perspectives regarding the price and quality of health care, and it is necessary to review the quality health care issue and how it influenced by price. The aim of this study is to explore the different dimensions of health care quality, examine the association with technology, health care market characteristics, additional and optional services of health care, sustainability, and some exceptional situations. We performed the narrative review searching by key words by main search engine Google and followed by their mother publication and or any first web database. We found that health care is a service industry, needs basic standards and specialized human resources to perform the procedure, and quality health care is not associated with an extra price. The quality of health care assures sustainability. Likewise, there are some additional choices during certain procedures, and those may have different price options and would be linked with quality. So, those optional health care and basic health need to define separately.
Phenology Metrics for Vegetation Type Classification in Estuarine Wetlands Using Satellite Imagery
Authors: Gao Yu , Hu Zhaoling , Wang Zhen , Shi Qiang , Chen Dan , Wu Shuai , Gao Yajun , Zhang Yuanzhi
Published: January 2023

While the efficiency of incorporating phenology features into vegetation type classification, in general, and coastal wetland vegetation classification, in particular, has been verified, it is difficult to acquire high-spatial-resolution (HSR) images taken at appropriate times for vegetation identification using phenology features because of the coastal climate and the HSR satellite imaging cycle. To strengthen phenology feature differences, in this study, we constructed vegetation phenology metrics according to vegetation NDVI time series curves fitted by samples collected from the Linhong Estuary Wetland and Liezi Estuary Wetland based on Gao Fen (GF) series satellite images taken between 2018 and 2022. Next, we calculated the phenology metrics using GF series satellite imagery taken over the most recent complete phenology cycle: 21 October 2020, 9 January 2021, 19 February 2021, and 8 May 2021. Five vegetation type classifications in the Linhong Estuary Wetland were carried out using single images of 21 October 2020 and 8 May 2021, along with their combination and the further addition of phenology metrics. From our comparison and analysis, the following findings emerged: Combining the images taken in 21 October 2020 and 8 May 2021 provided better vegetation classification accuracy than any single image, and the overall accuracy was, respectively, increased from 47% and 48% to 67%, while the corresponding kappa was increased from 33% and 34% to 58%; however, adding phenology metrics further improved the accuracy by decreasing the effect of some confusion among different vegetation types, and the overall accuracy and kappa were further improved to 75% and 69%, respectively. Though some problems remain to be further dealt with, this exploration offers helpful insights into coastal wetland vegetation classification using phenology based on HSR imagery.
Operator Protection from Gamma Rays Using Ordinary Glass and Glass Doped with Nanoparticles
Authors: Zubair Muhammad , Aamir Muhammad , Ahmed Eslam , Alyemni Abdullrahman Abdullah
Published: January 2023

Radiation-shielding glass is utilized in a few applications such as nuclear medicine, (PET) scans, x-rays, or treatment use. Nuclear reactors additionally require shielding from radiation types such as gamma, x-rays, and neutron emissions. Radiation-shielding glass is additionally utilized in the exploration and industry fields, for example, in cyclotron support testing of non-destructive materials, and the improvement of airport x-ray machines. Notwithstanding, radiation-shielding glass utilizes space innovation to protect both the astronauts and tools from cosmic rays. Nanoparticles have been involved recently in those applications. Several simulations using MCNP 6 have been used in this study to compare a variety of conventional and nanoparticle-doped glass, including silicate glass (containing BiO or PbO), BZBB5, and glass containing nanoparticles, including Na2Si3O7/Ag, Al2H2Na2O13Si4/HgO, and lead borate glass containing ZrO2 to detect shielding properties for operators at different gamma energies. We investigated the percentage of transmitted photons, linear attenuation coefficient, half-value layer, and mean free path for the selected glass. Several shielding properties were not significantly different between the simulated results and the theoretical data available commercially. Based on the results, those parameters depend on the glass material due to their densities and atomic number. It has been found that 70 Bismuth(III) oxide:30 Silica has the best shield properties from gamma rays, such as a low percentage of transmitted photons, low HVL, and low MFP, which is due to its high density and atomic number.
Efficient Scheduling of Home Energy Management Controller (HEMC) Using Heuristic Optimization Techniques
Authors: Mahmood Zafar , Cheng Benmao , Butt Naveed Anwer , Rehman Ghani Ur , Zubair Muhammad , Badshah Afzal , Aslam Muhammad
Published: January 2023

The main problem for both the utility companies and the end-used is to efficiently schedule the home appliances using energy management to optimize energy consumption. The microgrid, macro grid, and Smart Grid (SG) are state-of-the-art technology that is user and environment-friendly, reliable, flexible, and controllable. Both utility companies and end-users are interested in effectively utilizing different heuristic optimization techniques to address demand-supply management efficiently based on consumption patterns. Similarly, the end-user has a greater concern with the electricity bills, how to minimize electricity bills, and how to reduce the Peak to Average Ratio (PAR). The Home Energy Management Controller (HEMC) is integrated into the smart grid, by providing many benefits to the end-user as well to the utility. In this research paper, we design an efficient HEMC system by using different heuristic optimization techniques such as Genetic Algorithm (GA), Binary Particle Swarm Optimization (BPSO), and Wind Driven Optimization (WDO), to address the problem stated above. We consider a typical home, to have a large number of appliances and an on-site renewable energy generation and storage system. As a key contribution, here we focus on incentive-based programs such as Demand Response (DR) and Time of Use (ToU) pricing schemes which restrict the end-user energy consumption during peak demands. From the results figures, it is clear that our HEMC not only schedules all the appliances but also generates optimal patterns for energy consumption based on the ToU pricing scheme. As a secondary contribution, deploying an efficient ToU scheme benefits the end-user by paying minimum electricity bills, while considering user comfort, at the same time benefiting utilities by reducing the peak demand. From the graphs, it is clear that HEMC using GA shows better results than WDO and BPSO, in energy consumption and electricity cost, while BPSO is more prominent than WDO and GA by calculating PAR.
The Invariants of Dual Parallel Equidistant Ruled Surfaces
Authors: Gür Mazlum Sümeyye , Şenyurt Süleyman , Grilli Luca
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we calculate the Gaussian curvatures of the dual spherical indicatrix curves formed on unit dual sphere by the Blaschke vectors and dual instantaneous Pfaff vectors of dual parallel equidistant ruled surfaces (DPERS) and we give the relationships between these curvatures. In addition to—in cases where the base curves of these DPERS are closed—computing the dual integral invariants of the indicatrix curves. Additionally, we show the relationships between them. Finally, we provide an example for each of these indicatrix curves.
Stochastic Solitons in Birefringent Fibers for Biswas–Arshed Equation with Multiplicative White Noise via Itô Calculus by Modified Extended Mapping Method
Authors: Alhojilan Yazid , Ahmed Hamdy M. , Rabie Wafaa B.
Published: January 2023

Stochastic partial differential equations have wide applications in various fields of science and engineering. This paper addresses the optical stochastic solitons and other exact stochastic solutions through birefringent fibers for the Biswas–Arshed equation with multiplicative white noise using the modified extended mapping method. This model contains many kinds of soliton solutions, which are always symmetric or anti-symmetric in space. Stochastic bright soliton solutions, stochastic dark soliton solutions, stochastic combo bright–dark soliton solutions, stochastic combo singular-bright soliton solutions, stochastic singular soliton solutions, stochastic periodic solutions, stochastic rational solutions, stochastic Weierstrass elliptic doubly periodic solutions, and stochastic Jacobi elliptic function solutions are extracted. The constraints on the parameters are considered to guarantee the existence of these stochastic solutions. Furthermore, some of the selected solutions are described graphically to demonstrate the physical nature of the obtained solutions.
High-Frequency Ultrasonic Radiator Power Increase by Means of Summation of Vibrations of Symmetrically Arranged Langevin Transducers
Authors: Khmelev Vladimir N. , Shalunov Andrey V. , Nesterov Victor A. , Bochenkov Alexander S.
Published: January 2023

The article focuses on the research of processes of summation of ultrasonic vibrations of individual Langevin transducers symmetrically arranged on a common summator. This design could be used to solve the problem of increasing the power of a high-frequency ultrasonic radiator by means of the summation of the vibrations of individual Langevin transducers. The results of the presented theoretical and experimental investigations supported the possibility of summation of symmetrical diametrical vibrations when they are transformed into longitudinal vibrations. As a result, a new design scheme for high-frequency radiator construction was developed that provides symmetry and uniformity of vibration amplitude distribution of piezoceramic elements. This made it possible to eliminate the damage of piezoceramic elements. The article establishes that an acoustic power (continuous mode) of 1450 W at an efficiency of 78% is achieved when the vibrations from 9 to 11 of symmetrically arranged Langevin transducers at a resonant frequency of 30.05 kHz with an amplitude of 26 µm are summed. The use of this ultrasonic high-frequency radiator with increased power will provide intensification of processes in various areas of industry.
Tachyon Interactions
Authors: Schwartz Charles
Published: January 2023

A consistent theory of free tachyons has shown how tachyon neutrinos can explain major cosmological phenomena, dark energy and dark matter. Now, we investigate how tachyon neutrinos might interact with other particles: the weak interactions. Using the quantized field operators for electrons and tachyon neutrinos, the simplest interaction shows how the chirality selection rule, put in by force in the Standard Model, comes out naturally. Then, I wander into a re-study of what we do with negative frequencies of plane wave solutions of relativistic wave equations. The findings are simple and surprising, leading to a novel understanding of how to construct quantum field theories.
OnabotulinumtoxinA: Still the Present for Chronic Migraine
Authors: Baraldi Carlo , Lo Castro Flavia , Ornello Raffaele , Sacco Simona , Pani Luca , Guerzoni Simona
Published: January 2023

OnabotulinumtoxinA (BT-A) is one of the few drugs approved for the preventive treatment of chronic migraine (CM). Despite this, some aspects of its mechanism of action are still a matter of debate, and the precise magnitude of BT-A effects needs to be completely elucidated. BT-A acts primarily upon trigeminal and cervical nerve endings, by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators such as calcitonin gene-related peptide, as well as reducing the insertion of ionotropic and metabotropic receptors into the neuronal membrane. These actions increase the depolarization threshold of trigeminal and cervical nerve fibers, thus reducing their activation. The central actions of BT-A are still a matter of debate: a retrograde axonal transport has been postulated, but not clearly assessed in humans. Clinically, the efficacy of BT-A in CM has been assessed by large, randomized placebo-controlled trials, such as the Phase 3 REsearch Evaluating Migraine Prophylaxis Therapy (PREEMPT) trials. Those results were also confirmed in a wide range of open-label studies, even for long-term periods. Recently, novel findings have led to a better understanding of its pharmacological actions and clinical usefulness in migraine prevention. This narrative review summarizes, updates and critically revises the available data on BT-A and its possible implementation in chronic migraine. Moreover, the current role of BT-A in CM treatment has been discussed.
In Vitro Efficacy of Antivenom and Varespladib in Neutralising Chinese Russell’s Viper (Daboia siamensis) Venom Toxicity
Authors: Lay Mimi , Liang Qing , Isbister Geoffrey K. , Hodgson Wayne C.
Published: January 2023

The venom of the Russell’s viper (Daboia siamensis) contains neurotoxic and myotoxic phospholipase A2 toxins which can cause irreversible damage to motor nerve terminals. Due to the time delay between envenoming and antivenom administration, antivenoms may have limited efficacy against some of these venom components. Hence, there is a need for adjunct treatments to circumvent these limitations. In this study, we examined the efficacy of Chinese D. siamensis antivenom alone, and in combination with a PLA2 inhibitor, Varespladib, in reversing the in vitro neuromuscular blockade in the chick biventer cervicis nerve-muscle preparation. Pre-synaptic neurotoxicity and myotoxicity were not reversed by the addition of Chinese D. siamensis antivenom 30 or 60 min after venom (10 µg/mL). The prior addition of Varespladib prevented the neurotoxic and myotoxic activity of venom (10 µg/mL) and was also able to prevent further reductions in neuromuscular block and muscle twitches when added 60 min after venom. The addition of the combination of Varespladib and antivenom 60 min after venom failed to produce further improvements than Varespladib alone. This demonstrates that the window of time in which antivenom remains effective is relatively short compared to Varespladib and small-molecule inhibitors may be effective in abrogating some activities of Chinese D. siamensis venom.
Phage Adsorption to Gram-Positive Bacteria
Authors: Leprince Audrey , Mahillon Jacques
Published: January 2023

The phage life cycle is a multi-stage process initiated by the recognition and attachment of the virus to its bacterial host. This adsorption step depends on the specific interaction between bacterial structures acting as receptors and viral proteins called Receptor Binding Proteins (RBP). The adsorption process is essential as it is the first determinant of phage host range and a sine qua non condition for the subsequent conduct of the life cycle. In phages belonging to the Caudoviricetes class, the capsid is attached to a tail, which is the central player in the adsorption as it comprises the RBP and accessory proteins facilitating phage binding and cell wall penetration prior to genome injection. The nature of the viral proteins involved in host adhesion not only depends on the phage morphology (i.e., myovirus, siphovirus, or podovirus) but also the targeted host. Here, we give an overview of the adsorption process and compile the available information on the type of receptors that can be recognized and the viral proteins taking part in the process, with the primary focus on phages infecting Gram-positive bacteria.
Which Virus Will Cause the Next Pandemic?
Authors: Neumann Gabriele , Kawaoka Yoshihiro
Published: January 2023

One of the most pressing and consequential problems in infectious disease research is to better understand the potential of viruses to cause a pandemic, or, in simple terms, determine which virus will cause the next pandemic. We here define pandemics as WHO-declared pandemics, or disease outbreaks commonly referred to as pandemics that predate the WHO pandemic framework. Despite extensive research in the field of infectious diseases in recent decades, all pandemics have found us unprepared, with enormous losses of human lives, tremendous costs for public health, and vast and potentially long-lasting economic losses. Here, we discuss viruses that may cause a pandemic in the future.
Development of HIV-Resistant CAR T Cells by CRISPR/Cas-Mediated CAR Integration into the CCR5 Locus
Authors: Rothemejer Frederik Holm , Lauritsen Nanna Pi , Juhl Anna Karina , Schleimann Mariane Høgsbjerg , König Saskia , Søgaard Ole Schmeltz , Bak Rasmus O. , Tolstrup Martin
Published: January 2023

Adoptive immunotherapy using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has been highly successful in treating B cell malignancies and holds great potential as a curative strategy for HIV infection. Recent advances in the use of anti-HIV broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) have provided vital information for optimal antigen targeting of CAR T cells. However, CD4+ CAR T cells are susceptible to HIV infection, limiting their therapeutic potential. In the current study, we engineered HIV-resistant CAR T cells using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated integration of a CAR cassette into the CCR5 locus. We used a single chain variable fragment (scFv) of the clinically potent bNAb 10-1074 as the antigen-targeting domain in our anti-HIV CAR T cells. Our anti-HIV CAR T cells showed specific lysis of HIV-infected cells in vitro. In a PBMC humanized mouse model of HIV infection, the anti-HIV CAR T cells expanded and transiently limited HIV infection. In conclusion, this study provides proof-of-concept for developing HIV-resistant CAR T cells using CRISPR/Cas9 targeted integration.
Evaluation of Pre-Pandemic Trivalent COBRA HA Vaccine in Mice Pre-Immune to Historical H1N1 and H3N2 Influenza Viruses
Authors: Ge Pan , Ross Ted M.
Published: January 2023

Initial exposure to influenza virus(es) during early childhood produces protective antibodies that may be recalled following future exposure to subsequent viral infections or vaccinations. Most influenza vaccine research studies use immunologically naïve animal models to assess vaccine effectiveness. However, most people have an extensive influenza immune history, with memory cells produced by viruses or vaccines representing multiple influenza viruses. In this study, we explored the effect influenza seasonal virus-induced immunity has on pre-pandemic influenza virus vaccination. The mice that were pre-immune to historical H1N1 and H3N2 seasonal influenza viruses were vaccinated with adjuvanted pre-pandemic (H2, H5, and H7) HA-based computationally optimized broadly reactive antigen (COBRA) vaccines, and were fully protected from lethal challenge, whereas the mock-vaccinated mice, with or without pre-immunity, were not protected from morbidity or mortality. Detectable antibody titers were present in the pre-immune mice vaccinated with a single dose of vaccine, but not in the immunologically naïve mice. The mice vaccinated twice with the trivalent COBRA HA vaccine had similar antibody titers regardless of their pre-immune status. Overall, seasonal pre-immunity did not interfere with the immune responses elicited by pre-pandemic COBRA HA vaccines or the protection against pre-pandemic viruses.
Application of Water Quality Indices, Machine Learning Approaches, and GIS to Identify Groundwater Quality for Irrigation Purposes: A Case Study of Sahara Aquifer, Doucen Plain, Algeria
Authors: Gaagai Aissam , Aouissi Hani , Bencedira Selma , Hinge Gilbert , Athamena Ali , Heddam Salim , Gad Mohamed , Elsherbiny Osama , Elsayed Salah , Eid Mohamed , Ibrahim Hekmat
Published: January 2023

In order to evaluate and project the quality of groundwater utilized for irrigation in the Sahara aquifer in Algeria, this research employed irrigation water quality indices (IWQIs), artificial neural network (ANN) models, and Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR), alongside multivariate statistical analysis and a geographic information system (GIS), to assess and forecast the quality of groundwater used for irrigation in the Sahara aquifer in Algeria. Twenty-seven groundwater samples were examined using conventional analytical methods. The obtained physicochemical parameters for the collected groundwater samples showed that Ca2+ > Mg2+ > Na+ > K+, and Cl− > SO42− > HCO3− > NO3−, owing to the predominance of limestone, sandstone, and clay minerals under the effects of human activity, ion dissolution, rock weathering, and exchange processes, which indicate a Ca-Cl water type. For evaluating the quality of irrigation water, the IWQIs values such as irrigation water quality index (IWQI), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), Kelly index (KI), sodium percentage (Na%), permeability index (PI), and magnesium hazard (MH) showed mean values of 47.17, 1.88, 0.25, 19.96, 41.18, and 27.87, respectively. For instance, the IWQI values revealed that 33% of samples were severely restricted for irrigation, while 67% of samples varied from moderate to high restriction for irrigation, indicating that crops that are moderately to highly hypersensitive to salt should be watered in soft soils without any compressed layers. Two-machine learning models were applied, i.e., the ANN and GBR for IWQI, and the ANN model, which surpassed the GBR model. The findings showed that ANN-2F had the highest correlation between IWQI and exceptional features, making it the most accurate prediction model. For example, this model has two qualities that are critical for the IWQI prediction. The outputs’ R2 values for the training and validation sets are 0.973 (RMSE = 2.492) and 0.958 (RMSE = 2.175), respectively. Finally, the application of physicochemical parameters and water quality indices supported by GIS methods, machine learning, and multivariate modeling is a useful and practical strategy for evaluating the quality and development of groundwater.
Comparative Study on Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of Visible Light-Active Nanostructures for Degradation of Oxytetracycline and COD Removal of Licorice Extraction Plant Wastewater
Authors: Zangeneh Hadis , Mousavi Seyyed Alireza , Eskandari Parisa , Amarloo Ehsan , Farghelitiyan Javad , Zamani Mohammad Reza
Published: January 2023

This study evaluates the effects of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur dopants on the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 for degradation of oxytetracycline (OTC) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal from licorice extraction plant wastewater (LEPW). Three novel visible-light-responsive nanostructures, including L-Histidine-TiO2, L-Methionine-TiO2 and L-Asparagine-TiO2, were successfully synthesized. The results showed that the modification of TiO2 with these three amino acids made the catalyst active in the visible light region and reduced the recombination rate of e−/h+ pairs according to PL analysis. The photodegradation efficiency of L-Histidine (2 wt.%)-TiO2 was 100% and 94% for OTC and COD, respectively. It showed the highest photocatalytic activity under illumination, compared to L-Methionine (1.5 wt.%)-TiO2 and L-Asparagine (2 wt.%)-TiO2. Synthesized composites were characterized with SEM, XRD, FTIR, DRS, and PL analyses. The biological oxygen demand to COD (BOD5/COD) ratio for treated LEPW was determined to be 0.5–0.6, confirming the enhanced biodegradability of the treated effluent. The effect of the independent variables, namely, initial concentration of OTC and COD, catalyst dosage, irradiation time, pH of solution, and light intensity, on the photocatalytic process was evaluated by Response Surface Methodology (RSM), and the optimum value of each independent parameter for maximum degradation of OTC and COD by L-Histidine (2 wt.%)-TiO2 was determined. The radical trapping experiment was performed with various scavengers in order to propose a photocatalytic mechanism, showing that hydroxyl radicals were the main active species. L-Histidine (2 wt.%)-TiO2 showed a stable and reusable structure even after four cycles of COD removal under the following optimal conditions of [COD]: 300 mg/L, [catalyst]: 1 g/L, light intensity: 25 W/cm2 at pH = 4 after 180 min irradiation.
Bridge Pier Scour in Complex Environments: The Case of Chacao Channel in Chile
Authors: Martinez Francisco , Winckler Patricio , Zamorano Luis , Landeta Fernando
Published: January 2023

Chacao channel bridge is located in a tidal channel with highly-energetic hydrodynamics conditions and significant erodibility potential. Once finished, this 2.5 km long cable-stayed bridge will be the largest in South-America. Here we report an integrated procedure to estimate scour around two of its three towers, both located on a relatively complex but different soil matrices. A high-resolution hydrodynamic model based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations (RANS), physical tests of in situ soil samples in a Rotating Erosion Testing Apparatus (RETA) and empirical formulas for scour estimation are combined to provide a reliable estimation of scour depth under a periodic tidal ebb-flow regime. The relatively homogeneous soil material at the North Tower shows a high susceptibility to hydrodynamic erosion, which is estimated with SRICOS methodology. The Central Tower, in contrast, needs a combined approach based on the current state of the rock, information collected from underwater explorations and theoretical progress made about rock scour in order to reduce the uncertainty of the soils’ substrate. This study reveals that scour estimation for engineering design purposes in complex soils can be achieved with a joined vision of different disciplines and modelling tools for minimizing the uncertainty.
Characterization of Relative Movements between Blocks Observed in a Concrete Dam and Definition of Thresholds for Novelty Identification Based on Machine Learning Models
Authors: Mata Juan , Miranda Fabiana , Antunes António , Romão Xavier , Pedro Santos João
Published: January 2023

Dam surveillance activities are based on observing the structural behaviour and interpreting the past behaviour supported by the knowledge of the main loads. For day-to-day activities, data-driven models are usually adopted. Most applications consider regression models for the analysis of horizontal displacements recorded in pendulums. Traditional regression models are not commonly applied to the analysis of relative movements between blocks due to the non-linearities related to the simultaneity of hydrostatic and thermal effects. A new application of a multilayer perceptron neural network model is proposed to interpret the relative movements between blocks measured hourly in a concrete dam under exploitation. A new methodology is proposed for threshold definition related to novelty identification, taking into account the evolution of the records over time and the simultaneity of the structural responses measured in the dam under study. The results obtained through the case study showed the ability of the methodology presented in this work to characterize the relative movement between blocks and for the identification of novelties in the dam behaviour.
Possibilities of Using the Unitization Model in the Development of Transboundary Groundwater Deposits
Authors: Golovina Ekaterina , Shchelkonogova Olga
Published: January 2023

Groundwater belongs to the category of strategic minerals, along with hydrocarbon resources, so the supply of drinking water will become one of the urgent problems of modern society. The management of groundwater resources and their protection is a very complicated task, especially in border areas where neighboring states jointly exploit aquifers. The problem of transboundary water resources management, in particular groundwater, has been considered at the international level for more than 30 years. However, despite the adoption of a number of conventions, agreements and programs, both at the global and in the format of interstate relations, an understanding for the approach of a universal solution to the transboundary water issue has not yet been formed. An attempt to study the possibilities of applying the principles of unitization on the example of transboundary oil and gas fields in comparison with groundwater cross-border deposits is made in the paper for the first time. As a successful example, the unitization agreement between Norway and the UK for the development of the Frigg field was chosen. It is established that unitization agreements concluded by states in the joint development of transboundary mineral deposits, actively used in regulating the activities of transboundary oil and gas fields, can be used as one of the possible models of international agreements on the extraction of groundwater in transboundary territories.
Effects of Fe-DTPA on Health and Welfare of the African Catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)
Authors: Hildebrand Marc-Christopher , Rebl Alexander , Nguinkal Julien Alban , Palm Harry Wilhelm , Baßmann Björn
Published: January 2023

Fingerlings (0.23 g) and juveniles (267.04 g) of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) were reared for 32 days under experimental aquarium conditions and were exposed to either 0.75 mg/L or 3.0 mg/L diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid-iron(II) (Fe-DTPA) and 3.0 mg/L or 12.0 mg/L Fe-DTPA in the water, respectively. These treatment groups were compared to a control group without additional Fe-DTPA. The growth, mortality, ethological indicators (activity, agonistic interactions, air-breathing), leukocyte distribution, histopathological changes in liver and gills, and genetic biomarkers were evaluated for each group. While the growth, mortality, and behavior were not significantly different between the groups, the lymphocyte count in the fish’s blood increased significantly in all groups during the course of the experiment, but independently from the treatments. A similar trend (p > 0.05) was observed in monocytes. The number of granulocytes decreased significantly, but independently from the treatments. These changes indicated the possibility of an ongoing immune response in the fish from all treatments that might be caused by the increasing aggressive behavior of the fish. However, the Fe-DTPA treatments did not cause a notable suppression or enhancement of the immune reactions. Fe3+ accumulations in liver tissues were detected at the tested concentrations, and further changes occurred in the cells of the gills. Gene-expression biochips were used to simultaneously quantify the transcript levels of 34 genes associated with iron metabolism and stress physiology in head kidney samples. The obtained gene-expression profiles did not reveal any significant differences across either the different treatments or the time points. The results indicate that Fe-DTPA supplementation in the tested concentrations can be considered relatively harmless for the health and welfare of African catfish.
Identification of Potential Landslide Hazards Using Time-Series InSAR in Xiji County, Ningxia
Authors: Zhang Jia , Gong Yongfeng , Huang Wei , Wang Xing , Ke Zhongyan , Liu Yanran , Huo Aidi , Adnan Ahmed , Abuarab Mohamed EL-Sayed
Published: January 2023

Potential landslide identification and monitoring are essential to prevent geological disasters. However, in mountainous areas where the surface gradient changes significantly, the leveling effect is not completely removed, affecting the deformation results. In this paper, the SBAS-InSAR and PS-InSAR time-series processing methods were combined to interfere with the SAR image data of the ascending orbit in the southern mountainous area of Ningxia and its surrounding regions. Based on the obtained surface deformation monitoring results and optical images, landslide hazard identification was successfully carried out within the coverage area of 3130 km2 in Xiji County. The results show that the whole study area presented a relatively stable state, most of the deformation rates were concentrated in the range of 0 mm/a to −10 mm/a, and the deformation in the southwest area was larger. A total of 11 large potential landslides (which were already registered potential danger points of geological disasters) were identified in the study area, including three historical collapses. The landslide identification results were highly consistent with the field survey results after verification. The timing analysis of the typical landslide point of the Jiaowan landslide was further carried out, which showed that the Jiaowan landslide produced new deformation during the monitoring time, but it was still in a basically stable state. It can do a good job in disaster prevention and reduction while strengthening monitoring. The results of this study have a guiding effect on landslide prevention and mitigation in the mountainous areas of southern Ningxia.
Short-Term Meteorological Conditions Explain Cyanobacterial Blooms in a Tropical Reservoir
Authors: Alvarez Dalinger Florencia Soledad , Lozano Verónica Laura , Borja Claudia Nidia , Moraña Liliana Beatriz , María Mónica Salusso
Published: January 2023

Cyanobacterial blooms represent a major problem in reservoirs that are used for potable water supplies. The El Limón reservoir is one of the main reserves of water for consumption in northern Argentina (22°6′12.29″ S). This study analyzed the role of abiotic factors in the promotion of blooms in El Limón during warm seasons and explored the physical and chemical parameters affecting the morphological development of the most abundant cyanobacteria species. The results showed that short-term meteorological variations correlated with cyanobacterial abundances in this shallow reservoir. Average daily temperatures for 6 and 8 months before the sampling date were positively correlated with cyanobacterial abundances as well as filament length, while accumulated precipitation limited the abundances of cyanobacteria. Considering the highly probably effects of short-term meteorological factors on cyanobacterial blooms, the results support the need for continuous and periodic monitoring of tropical reservoirs.
About criteria and methods used to evaluate and select methods of feed quality control
Authors:   Department of Veterinary and Sanitary Expertise and Biological Safety of the Russian Biotechnological University, Moscow, Abdullayeva A.M. , Zaitseva I.A. ,   Departments of Chemistry and Ecotoxicology Russian Biotechnological University, Moscow
Published: January 2023

The article presents the classification and chemical composition of feed, substantiates the criteria used to evaluate and select methods of feed quality control, as well as veterinary and sanitary requirements for feed storage conditions and storage standards.
Video analytics as a tool for increasing efficiency in warehouses
Authors:   Real Estate segment of TRASSIR, Sinyavskaya O.
Published: January 2023

The imbalance in supply chains, inflation, rising prices, delays of goods at the borders significantly increase the burden on logistics. To increase efficiency and optimize the budget is often hindered by high workload and lack of personnel, as well as the lack of evidence in the event of controversial situations. Many problems can be solved by automating the control and accounting of goods, vehicles, improving the efficiency of the warehouse due to surveillance video surveillance modules, which is always combined with situational analytics. The article also reveals the issues of improving the security of the perimeter and monitoring the location of vehicles on the territory, trends in video solutions based on thermal maps of movements and their processing, fixing loading and unloading operations and indicators of the effectiveness of the introduction of automation systems.
Technology development as a factor of stability in a crisis and a point of growth
Authors:   Procurement of JSC “Conflex SPb”, Stadnik A.
Published: January 2023

JSC “Conflex SPb” is one of the leaders in the flexible roll packaging industry. The company is equipped with equipment that allows for a full cycle of production of flexible packaging materials. In the conditions of market turbulence, Conflex formulates its position as follows: technology development as a factor of stability in a crisis and a point of growth. The author defines three directions of countering the conditions that have arisen: expanding the supplier base, developing production, technological development of new compositions from new materials using all technical and technological capabilities.
Regulation of parallel imports to the Russian Federation
Authors:   Rostest Ural CA, Kurbatova E.D.
Published: January 2023

The article discusses the features of parallel import, what is included in this concept, what disadvantages and advantages entrepreneurs have encountered.
Designing reinforced concrete structures in the ARM Model Studio CS
Authors:   Integrated Solutions Department GC “SiSoft” (CSoft), Ovchinnikova A. E. , Belkin A. S. ,   Integrated Solutions Department GC “SiSoft” (CSoft)
Published: January 2023

The construction of buildings and structures made of reinforced concrete structures, both prefabricated and monolithic, has become widespread in modern construction. Accordingly, there are more and more requirements for the design of this type of objects. To simplify the work on projects, there are many programs for the construction of objects for various purposes and obtaining project documentation. One of the solutions in the field of design of the architectural and construction part (AR, AS, KJ, KM brands) is the Model Studio CS Construction Solutions program, which is part of the product line developed by the company “SiSoft Development” (CSoft Development). The article discusses the functionality of this program in terms of the construction of reinforced concrete structures.
Jogosulatlan tevékenységek üzletszerűsége
Authors: Vidács Dávid
Published: January 2023

A Magyar Nemzeti Bank (MNB) elhivatottan üldözi a hatáskörébe tartozó jogosulatlan tevékenységeket. Ez egyrészt a felügyelt intézmények, másrészt a szolgáltatásokat igénybe vevő ügyfelek védelme érdekében bír kiemelt jelentőséggel, célja pedig a teljes körű transzparens pénzügyi szektor védelmének biztosítása. Egyes piacfelügyeleti tárgyú vizsgálatok esetén azonban nem elegendő annak a megállapítása, hogy valamely személy MNB-engedély nélkül vagy bejelentés hiányában végzett tevékenységet, hanem azt is bizonyítani szükséges, hogy azt üzletszerűen tette-e. Az alábbiakban az üzletszerű tevékenység értelmezése szempontjából mutatom be a vonatkozó jogszabályi rendelkezéseket.
PRESENTACIÓN
Authors: Sequeiros Olivares Karen Abigail
Published: January 2023

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