bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engaging Communities in Energy Transitions: A Study on Attitudes Towards Sustainable Heating Technologies and the Role of Peer Effects in Southern Chile
Authors: Álvarez Boris , Boso Àlex , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Ignacio , Espluga-Trenc Josep
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the role of peer effects in shaping the adoption of sustainable heating systems in two highly polluted communes in Southern Chile. Despite policies promoting cleaner alternatives, wood-burning stoves, a major source of particulate matter emissions, remain widespread. This research work addresses a critical gap in the literature by examining how peer influence—typically studied in relation to visible technologies like solar panels or electric vehicles—affects the adoption of less visible but essential sustainable heating technologies. The main objective of this study is to understand how peer networks can influence the attitudes of residents towards sustainable heating technologies in highly polluted urban environments. Employing a non-experimental, cross-sectional design with a sample of 244 participants, this study reveals that peer effects and health risk perception are significant predictors of positive attitudes towards sustainable heating systems. These findings contribute valuable insights for policymakers seeking to accelerate energy transitions in polluted regions.
Energy Management System and Control of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in a Grid-Connected Microgrid
Authors: Roaid Muhammad , Ashfaq Tayyab , Mumtaz Sidra , Albogamy Fahad R. , Ahmad Saghir , Ullah Basharat
Published: October 2024

In the complex environment of microgrid deployments targeted at geographic regions, the seamless integration of renewable energy sources meets a variety of essential challenges. These include the unpredictable nature of renewable energy, characterized by intermittent energy generation, as well as ongoing fluctuations in load demand, the vulnerabilities present in distribution network failures, and the unpredictability that results from unfavorable weather conditions. These unexpected events work together to disturb the delicate balance between energy supply and demand, raising the alarming threat of system instability and, in the worst cases, the sudden advent of damaging blackouts. To address this issue, a fuzzy logic-based energy management system has been developed to monitor, manage, and optimize energy consumption in microgrids. This study focuses on the control of diesel generators and utility grids in a grid-connected microgrid which manages and evaluates numerous energy consumption and distribution features within a specified system, e.g., building or a microgrid. An energy management system is suggested based on fuzzy logic as a swift fix for complications with effective and competent resource management, and its presentation is compared with both the grid-connected and off-grid modes of the microgrid. In the end, the results exhibit that the proposed controller outclasses the predictable controllers in dropping sudden variations that arise during the addition of sources of renewable energy, supporting the refurbishment of the constant system.
Utilizing the IFS Standard for the Implementation of Sustainable Development Practices in Juice Production
Authors: Biadała Agata , Szablewski Tomasz , Cegielska-Radziejewska Renata , Tomczyk Łukasz , Budych Daria
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to identify the most common threats and non-compliances occurring during the production of unpasteurized fruit juices in relation to the requirements of the IFS standard. Additionally, this study aimed to demonstrate how the IFS standard supports the introduction of sustainable practices in the production of fruit juices. The research material was data from internal audits conducted in three plants producing unpasteurized fruit juices and final product microbial assessment and swabs from the production environment taken from the three plants. These plants are located in western Poland. Based on the assessment carried out, it was found that most non-compliances were identified in the areas covered by prerequisite programs, but the final product and production environment met product and production safety requirements. It was also stated that the corrective actions proposed and approved by the auditors correct the existing non-compliance without the aspect of continuous improvement. The research and audits carried out as part of this work allowed us to conclude that international standards, such as the IFS, are an excellent tool for introducing the principles of a sustainable approach to production plants.
Research on Evaluation Method of Green Suppliers Under Pythagorean Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Wang Jianhua , An Nan
Published: October 2024

The evaluation and selection of green suppliers, as an important part of the process of creating a green supply chain, has received attention from enterprises and scholars. However, the evaluation and selection of green suppliers is a complex multi-criteria decision-making problem, and the evaluation information provided by experts is often ambiguous, so it is difficult to obtain reasonable and accurate assessment results. Therefore, this paper proposes a green supplier evaluation model of Pythagorean fuzzy approximation of ideal solution ranking (Technology for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution, or TOPSIS). The model utilizes Pythagorean fuzzy sets to deal with fuzzy expert opinions and the TOPSIS method to obtain the ranking of alternative suppliers. In addition, the model calculates the criterion weights using the entropy weighting method in the fuzzy environment. Finally, the model proposed in this paper is used to help Company A determine the optimal green supplier selection object, and the effectiveness and superiority of the model are verified through a comparative analysis with existing green supplier evaluation models.
Impacts of Large Hydropower Projects on the Ecological Environment of Watersheds: A Case Study of Ertan Reservoir Area
Authors: Xiao Yixian , He Li , Chen Xin , He Zhengwei , Lai Yangqi , Luo Fang , Cen Yuxin , Li Dan , Jin Run
Published: October 2024

Ertan Hydroelectric Power Station was the first large-scale water conservancy facility in western China, and with its completion, the ecological pattern of the reservoir area has changed dramatically; however, the changes in habitat quality before and after the completion of the reservoir have not yet been systematically monitored and evaluated. In this study, we analyzed the spatial and temporal characteristics of the remote sensing ecological index (RSEI), used CA-Markov model and GeoDetector, evaluated the ecological environment of the Ertan Reservoir area in each five-year period from 1995 to 2020, simulated the ecological quality of the Ertan Reservoir area in 2025, and revealed the nine drivers and their interactions affecting ecological quality of the watershed from a geologic point of view, and finally put forward reasonable planning and targeted protection suggestions. Finally, rational planning and targeted protection recommendations were proposed. The main results were as follows: (1) After the completion of the Ertan Hydropower Station, the spatial distribution of the RSEI in the reservoir area varied significantly, with a trend of “rising-declining-rising” in time, and the area share of “good” area increased the most, by 19.83%. (2) The degree of grading of each driving factor had different degrees of influence on the size of the RSEI value, and its interaction enhanced the spatial differentiation of the RSEI. (3) The average value of the RSEI is 0.66 in 2025, and the ecological environment quality will show a steady improvement in five years. The results of the study can provide a reference for constructing RSEI indicators for large hydropower facilities.
A Study on the Charring Properties of Glued Laminated Korean Larch Timber Columns
Authors: Choi Yunjeong , Baik Kwonhyuk , Kim Suho , An Jaehong
Published: October 2024

As the carbon storage capacity of timber is recognized, there is growing interest in timber and wooden structures as a solution to various environmental problems. The use of Korean timber with substantial carbon storage capacity is required to reduce Korean carbon emissions and circulate timber resources. In this study, fire tests were conducted to investigate the charring properties of glued laminated timber columns made of Korean larch. The fire tests were conducted under both load-bearing and non-load-bearing conditions. The fire test results showed that the charring depth was affected by the corners of the section and that the load ratio had an insignificant influence on the charring depth when the load ratio was 0.9 or less. This study provides data that can be used to compare the charring properties of laminated wood produced using South Korean larch with the charring properties of foreign standards. This research provides reference data for developing fire-resistant design standards for timber structures made from South Korean timber.
New Results Regarding Positive Periodic Solutions of Generalized Leslie–Gower-Type Population Models
Authors: Shu Axiu , Li Xiaoliang , Du Bo
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we focus on the existence of positive periodic solutions of generalized Leslie–Gower-type population models. Using the topological degree, we provide sufficient conditions to demonstrate the existence of positive periodic solutions to the considered models. It is interesting that the positive periodic solutions in this paper are general positive functions, not e exponential functions, which generalizes and improves the existing results. We note that due to the symmetrical property of periodic solutions, the results of this paper provide a deeper understanding of the periodic behavior of biological populations. Two numerical examples show the effectiveness of our main results.
Dysphagia and Muscle Weakness Secondary to Botulinum Toxin Type A Treatment of Cervical Dystonia: A Drug Class Analysis of Prescribing Information
Authors: Dashtipour Khashayar , Lee Han S. , Ellenbogen Aaron , Kazerooni Rashid , Gross Todd M. , Hollander David A. , Gallagher Conor J.
Published: October 2024

The first-line management of cervical dystonia (CD) symptoms is intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA). However, a comparison of safety among BoNTAs is difficult because, per regulatory authorities, units of BoNTA activity are not interchangeable. Dysphagia and muscle weakness are widely considered two key adverse events to monitor closely in the treatment of CD. This integrated analysis compared the safety of BoNTAs approved for CD in the US by evaluating relationships between the incidence of dysphagia and muscle weakness in prescribing information and the core neurotoxin content. Coefficients The coefficients of determination (R2) and trendlines were estimated via regression-based lines of best fit. Adverse drug reaction (ADR) rates were strongly correlated with core neurotoxin amounts for conventional BoNTAs (slope coefficients: dysphagia = 0.048, R2 = 0.74; muscle weakness = 0.096, R2 = 0.82). The published ADR rates at approved doses for conventional BoNTAs were higher compared with DaxibotulinumtoxinA (DAXI; DAXXIFY®, Revance Therapeutics, Inc., Nashville, TN, USA) by core neurotoxin content. The use of a core neurotoxin amount was found to be an effective method for comparing the safety of BoNTA products. Current clinical trials suggest that DAXI, a novel BoNTA formulation, provides a potentially wider safety margin compared with other approved BoNTAs for CD. The lower amount of core neurotoxin administered at approved doses compared with conventional BoNTAs may explain low on-target ADRs like muscle weakness, whereas reduced diffusion from the injection site is thought to be responsible for low off-target ADRs like dysphagia.
The Transition Pathways to Sustainable Urban Mobility: Could They Be Extended to Megacities?
Authors: Rey-Tienda Sierra , Rey-Moreno Manuel , Medina-Molina Cayetano
Published: October 2024

Population concentration in urban areas has placed cities at the forefront of the global struggle to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Within cities, current mobility patterns are responsible for a significant proportion of environmental emissions. As a result, cities across the world are seeking to develop transitions towards new and greener mobility systems. This paper analyses the different pathways that explain the readiness, or otherwise negation, of cities in achieving sustainable mobility. Based on a sample of 65 cities from all over the world, and with the application of Set-Theoretic Multi-Method Research and Necessary Conditions Analysis, it is demonstrated that there are necessary conditions for the achievement of sustainable mobility, as well as different terms that explain its achievement and its denial. Moreover, the analysis confirms that both the necessary conditions for sustainable mobility and one of the terms explaining its denial reflect the existence of causal mechanisms. The paper confirms the necessity for an analysis of the transitions towards sustainable mobility to take into account the characteristics of the context. Furthermore, it is not possible to explain the behaviour of megacities on the basis of generalised statements.
Evaluation of a Commercial Rapid Molecular Point-of-Care Assay for Differential Diagnosis Between SARS-CoV-2 and Flu A/B Infections in a Pediatric Setting
Authors: Bottino Paolo , Massarino Costanza , Leli Christian , Scomparin Elisabetta , Bara Cristina , Gotta Franca , Cornaglia Elisa , Felici Enrico , Gentile Michela , Ranzan Sara , Francese Alessia , Ugo Francesca , Penpa Serena , Roveta Annalisa , Maconi Antonio , Rocchetti Andrea
Published: October 2024

Given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there is a need to identify SARS-CoV-2 and to differentiate it from other respiratory viral infections, especially influenza A and B, in various critical settings. Since their introduction, the use of rapid antigen tests has spread worldwide, but there is variability in their diagnostic accuracy. In the present study, we evaluated the clinical performance of the ID NOW™ COVID-19 2.0, a molecular point-of-care test (POCT) based on enzymatic isothermal amplification for the differential diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A/B in a pediatric emergency setting. A cohort of pediatric patients admitted between December 2022 and February 2023 were simultaneously tested with the POCT and standard laboratory molecular assay. Our findings showed high negative agreement of the POCT assay across the different age groups for SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, and influenza B (more than 98.0%), while its positive agreement varied significantly for the abovementioned viral species from 50.0% to 100%. These results highlight the potential of the ID NOW™ COVID-19 2.0 POCT assay as a reliable and rapid tool for excluding SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A/B infections in symptomatic pediatric patients, although its variable positive agreement suggests a need for confirmatory RT-qPCR testing in certain clinical and epidemiological settings in order to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate patient management.
The HIV-1 vpr R77Q Mutant Induces Apoptosis, G2 Cell Cycle Arrest, and Lower Production of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines in Human CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Solis-Leal Antonio , Karlinsey Dalton C. , Sithole Sidney T. , Lopez Jack Brandon , Carlson Amanda , Planelles Vicente , Poole Brian D. , Berges Bradford K.
Published: October 2024

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) occurs when HIV depletes CD4+ helper T cells. Some patients develop AIDS slowly or not at all, and are termed long-term non-progressors (LTNP), and while mutations in the HIV-1 Viral Protein R (vpr) gene such as R77Q are associated with LTNP, mechanisms for this correlation are unclear. This study examines the induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and pro-inflammatory cytokine release in the HUT78 T cell line following infection with replication-competent wild-type strain NL4-3, the R77Q mutant, or a vpr Null mutant. Our results show a significant enhancement of apoptosis and G2 cell cycle arrest in HUT78 cells infected with R77Q, but not with WT NL4-3 or the vpr Null strain. Conversely, HUT78 cells infected with the WT virus show higher levels of necrosis. We also detected lower TNF and IL-6 release after infection with R77Q vs. WT. The apoptotic phenotype was also seen in the CEM cell line and in primary CD4+ T cells. Protein expression of the R77Q vpr variant was low compared to WT vpr, but expression levels alone cannot explain these phenotypes because the Null virus did not show apoptosis or G2 arrest. These results suggest that R77Q triggers a non-inflammatory apoptotic pathway that attenuates inflammation, possibly contributing to LTNP.
Effect of Vaccination Against E. coli, C. perfringens Type A/C on Piglet Productive and Clinical Parameters Under Field Conditions
Authors: Dors Arkadiusz , Panek Robert , Łużyński Wojciech , Janeczko Krzysztof , Augustyniak Agata , Turlewicz-Podbielska Hanna , Czyżewska-Dors Ewelina , Pomorska-Mól Małgorzata
Published: October 2024

Background: One of the main strategies to control neonatal porcine diarrhoea (NPD) is through vaccination of the sows. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of two commercial vaccination schemes under field conditions on a farm where a C. perfringens type A cpb2-positive strain was implicated in NPD. Methods: This study was performed in a farrow-to-wean herd with 5500 sows, already using an E. coli and C. perfringens vaccine but still suffering NPD. Where the presence of a C. perfringens type A cpb2-positive strain was confirmed, Enteroporc Coli AC® (Ceva) was administrated to the sows in group A according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Sows in group B were vaccinated using two other combined commercial vaccines. In each group, piglets from 10 litters were ear-tagged and individually weighed at birth and at 8 and 22 days of age. The incidence of diarrhoea, general piglet body condition, and antimicrobial treatment were recorded within 10 consecutive days after birth. Results: A total of 234 piglets (119 in group A and 115 in group B) were included. The mean weight gain of piglets from birth to 22 days of age was significantly higher in group A (4.99 kg) than in group B (4.66 kg) (p = 0.039). The rest of the recorded parameters such as the presence of diarrhoea, the piglet’s body condition score, and the number of days with antimicrobial treatment did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusions: This study confirmed the efficiency of the Enteroporc Coli AC® vaccine in reducing clinical symptoms of diarrhoea in piglets, which was comparable with the other vaccines used in the study. The positive effect on piglets’ productive performance during the lactation phase was observed.
Intranasal Prime–Boost with Spike Vectors Generates Antibody and T-Cell Responses at the Site of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Metko Muriel , Tonne Jason , Veliz Rios Alexa , Thompson Jill , Mudrick Haley , Masopust David , Diaz Rosa Maria , Barry Michael A. , Vile Richard G.
Published: October 2024

Background: Long-lived, re-activatable immunity to SARS-CoV-2 and its emerging variants will rely on T cells recognizing conserved regions of viral proteins across strains. Heterologous prime–boost regimens can elicit elevated levels of circulating CD8+ T cells that provide a reservoir of first responders upon viral infection. Although most vaccines are currently delivered intramuscularly (IM), the initial site of infection is the nasal cavity. Methods: Here, we tested the hypothesis that a heterologous prime and boost vaccine regimen delivered intranasally (IN) will generate improved immune responses locally at the site of virus infection compared to intramuscular vaccine/booster regimens. Results: In a transgenic human ACE2 murine model, both a Spike-expressing single-cycle adenovirus (SC-Ad) and an IFNß safety-enhanced replication-competent Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) platform generated anti-Spike antibody and T-cell responses that diminished with age. Although SC-Ad-Spike boosted a prime with VSV-Spike-mIFNß, SC-Ad-Spike alone induced maximal levels of IgG, IgA, and CD8+ T-cell responses. Conclusions: There were significant differences in T-cell responses in spleens compared to lungs, and the intranasal boost was significantly superior to the intramuscular boost in generating sentinel immune effectors at the site of the virus encounter in the lungs. These data show that serious consideration should be given to intranasal boosting with anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.
Burden of Pneumococcal Disease in Young Children Due to Serotypes Contained in Different Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in Eight Asian Countries and Territories
Authors: Huang Liping , Li Xiuyan , Eugenia Ng , Leung Johnnie , Hung Sheng-Tzu (Alice) , Cheong Ervin Zhi Bin , Avila Ricardo , Nua Winniefer , Choowanich Kornvipa , Rampal Ritika , Kulkarni Namrata , Daigle Derek , Taysi Bulent Nuri
Published: October 2024

Background: Pneumococcal disease (PD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in young children in Asia and globally. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) have significantly reduced the burden of PD when included in pediatric national immunization programs (NIPs). This study estimates the clinical and economic burden of PD due to serotypes contained in different PCVs in children aged < 5 years in eight Asian countries/territories. Methods: Based on published data, a cohort-based decision analytic model was used to estimate annual PD cases, deaths, and direct medical costs associated with serotypes contained in PCV10, PCV13, PCV15, and PCV20. Results: PD incidence rates were lower in regions with PCV13 in their NIP than those without. Serotypes contained in higher but not lower valency PCVs resulted in a significant incremental clinical and economic burden, although the difference between PCV13 and PCV15 serotypes was generally small. Moving from PCV13 to PCV20 was estimated to result in greater clinical and economic burden reductions. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the remaining and incremental burden of PD from PCV10 to PCV20 serotypes in young children in selected Asian regions. Extending NIP access to higher-valency PCVs with broader serotype coverage and improving vaccine uptake will help prevent morbidity and deaths and save healthcare costs.
Cow Placenta Extract Ameliorates Cyclophosphamide-Induced Intestinal Damage by Enhancing the Intestinal Barrier, Improving Immune Function, and Restoring Intestinal Microbiota
Authors: Zhao Yuquan , Zhang Zeru , Tang Anguo , Zeng Zhi , Zheng Weijian , Luo Yuxin , Huang Yixin , Dai Xinyi , Lu Wei , Fan Lei , Shen Liuhong
Published: October 2024

Immunosuppression undermines intestinal barrier integrity. Cow placenta extract (CPE) primarily consists of active peptides with immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects. This study aimed to examine the preventive effect of CPE against intestinal damage induced by cyclophosphamide (Cy) in immunosuppressed mice. Thirty-six mice were randomly allocated into three groups: control group (C), model group (M), and treatment group (CPE). The mice in the CPE group were provided with 1500 mg/kg/day of CPE via gavage. In the last 3 days, mice in the groups M and CPE received intraperitoneal injections of 80 mg/kg/day of Cy. The results showed that CPE improved intestinal barrier function by decreasing serum d-Lactate (D-LA) levels and diamine oxidase (DAO) activity, while elevating the relative expression of Occludin, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), and mucin-2 (MUC-2) mRNA. Additionally, CPE improved the immune organ index and elevated the levels of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the intestine, thereby enhancing intestinal mucosal immune function. Furthermore, CPE improved the diversity of intestinal microbiota and increased the abundance of Candidatus_Saccharimonas, Psychrobacter, and Enterorhabdus, which promoted the proper functioning of the intestines. These findings suggest that CPE effectively ameliorates Cy-induced intestinal damage by enhancing the intestinal barrier, improving immune function, and restoring intestinal microbiota.
Electroencephalographic and Cardiovascular Assessments of Isoflurane-Anesthetized Dogs
Authors: Ko Jeff C. , Murillo Carla , Weil Ann B. , Kreuzer Matthias , Moore George E.
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the use of frontal electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor varying levels of isoflurane anesthesia in dogs. The patient state index (PSI), burst suppression ratio (SR), and waveforms, were continuously recorded while mean arterial blood pressure (MBP), heart rate, responses to electric stimuli, and subjective anesthetic “depth” were assessed every 3 min. At deep anesthesia (2.5× MAC − 3.2%), the PSI (6.5 ± 10.8) and MBP (45.6 ± 16.4 mmHg) were the lowest, and SR was the highest (78.3 ± 24.0%). At 1× MAC (1.3%), the PSI and MBP increased significantly to 47.8 ± 12.6 and 99.8 ± 13.2, respectively, and SR decreased to 0.5 ± 2.5%. The EEG was predominantly isoelectric at 2×–2.5× MAC, indicating unconsciousness and unresponsiveness. As anesthesia lightened, waveforms transitioned to flatter and faster activity patterns with a response to noxious stimuli, suggesting regained consciousness. The PSI and MBP exhibited a stronger correlation (ρ = 0.8098, p = 0.001) than the relationship of PSI with heart rate (ρ = −0.2089, p = 0.249). Five of the six dogs experienced rough recovery, possibly due to high SR and low MBP. These findings suggest that EEG monitoring in dogs can be a valuable tool for the real-time tracking of brain states and can be used to guide the management of isoflurane anesthesia.
Modeling the Impact of Wind Drag Coefficient on Wind-Driven Currents in Lake Taihu, China
Authors: Zhu Chunyue , Dou Yanbin , Yu Guohua , Yu Junjun , Liao Jiaqing , Gao Ang , Zhang Zhengxian , Wu Chenhui
Published: October 2024

The wind drag coefficient, Cd, has a great influence on the numerical results obtained from shallow lakes. To analyze the modeling impacts of Cd on wind-driven currents, a series of numerical simulations of Lake Taihu were conducted at three grid resolutions (800 m × 800 m, 400 m × 400 m, and 100 m × 100 m) using the empirical formulae of Flather (F76), Large and Pond (LP81), Large and Yeager (LY04), Andreas (A12), and Gao (G20). The G20 formula produced the optimum results of all the formulae for both the water level and velocity simulations; however, the grid resolution was found to have a significant influence on simulation in G20 cases. Thus, the G20 formula is only recommended when using a high-resolution grid to meet the accuracy requirements of analyzing wind-driven currents in the numerical modeling of Lake Taihu. A combination of the A12 formula and a coarse grid is preferred when taking computational efficiency into consideration.
A Review of Strategies and Technologies for Sustainable Decentralized Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Sha Chuqiao , Shen Shuting , Zhang Junjun , Zhou Chao , Lu Xiwu , Zhang Hong
Published: October 2024

The traditional model of centralized wastewater treatment is facing substantial strain due to a confluence of global challenges. Consequently, it is imperative to evaluate the impediments and potential advantages associated with the deployment of decentralized wastewater (DW) treatment technologies and systems. Decentralized wastewater (DW) treatment represents a sustainable approach to managing and purifying wastewater across both urban and rural settings. This literature review provides a detailed examination of current advancements and challenges associated with DW treatment technologies. It specifically addresses their operational efficiency, long-term sustainability, and practical implementation across diverse environments. This review critically analyzes recent studies that highlight innovative methodologies, including the deployment of constructed wetlands, anaerobic digestion processes, and predictive models enhanced by artificial intelligence. A critical focus is placed on the ecological and economic advantages of source separation and resource recovery from wastewater streams. The issue of emerging contaminants, such as microplastics, antibiotics, and steroids, is also discussed, emphasizing the continued need for innovation in treatment technologies. Findings from various life cycle assessments are presented to illustrate the environmental impact and feasibility of decentralized systems relative to centralized alternatives. This comprehensive analysis offers valuable insights into the future trajectories of wastewater treatment research and implementation.
An Experimental Study of Flow and Turbulence Properties near the Rising Sector Gate Mouth Considering the Gate Opening with a PIV Measuring System
Authors: Song Chang Geun , Park Sung Won , Shin Jaehyun
Published: October 2024

Hydraulic structures, such as movable weir gates, are widely installed in rivers and streams for various purposes. Among these is the rising sector gate, which is the focus of this study. This research investigated how different gate openings affect flow velocity and turbulence distributions at the gate mouth. A hydraulic analysis of flow and turbulence characteristics near the mouth of a rising sector gate model was conducted through laboratory experiments with various flow conditions and gate openings utilizing a Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) system. Experimental tests were carried out with two gate-opening angles (30 and 45 degrees). The PIV measurements revealed significant variations in flow velocity and turbulence properties in response to the gate openings and flow conditions. Notably, in the vicinity of the gate mouth, where the flow regime changes rapidly between the upstream and downstream regions, the turbulence properties in the upstream part of the gate mouth were more than twice those in the downstream part. Additionally, the streamwise distribution of depth-averaged relative turbulence intensity was analyzed. The results showed that the depth-averaged relative turbulence intensity decreased by nearly half as the gate opening increased from 30 to 45 degrees, with the lowest values observed at the gate mouth, followed by an increase downstream. A functional relationship between the maximum flow velocity at the gate mouth during underflow operation and the Froude number was established to guide practical gate operation in the field.
A polymorphic word in old Romanian (adjective, noun, adverb and interjection): ferice ʻgood/blessed/well, happyʼ
Authors:   Universitatea Babeş-Bolyai, Facultatea de Litere, Chircu Adrian
Published: October 2024

Consulting the main Romanian lexicographic works and taking into account some previous contributions on Romanian (diachronic) morphosyntax, the author aims to discuss the meanings of the word ferice ‘good/blessed/well, happy’ and its morphological values or syntactic implications, as they are presented in the old Romanian writings, more precisely in some old texts integrated into the SOR Corpus, enriched with new sources recently published.
To this day, despite the antiquity of the word in question, it has been discussed only sequentially, which calls for revealing its morphosyntactic behavior.
Consulting the main Romanian lexicographic works and taking into account some previous contributions on Romanian (diachronic) morphosyntax, the author aims to discuss the meanings of the word ferice ‘good/blessed/well, happy’ and its morphological values or syntactic implications, as they are presented in the old Romanian writings, more precisely in some old texts integrated into the SOR Corpus, enriched with new sources recently published. To this day, despite the antiquity of the word in question, it has been discussed only sequentially, which calls for revealing its morphosyntactic behavior. Therefore, it will be possible to establish much better the place and role of the word ferice ‘good/blessed/well, happy’ at the sentence level (in the old language), proposing some relevant analytical solutions, leading to some interpretative repositioning, so necessary for a proper understanding of language facts that are not always clear.
Qui parle de qui/de quoi ? Vers la représentation de la source de lʼinformation dans les patois du Dacoroumain
Authors:   Universitatea din Craiova, Popescu Cecilia Mihaela
Published: October 2024

The paper aims at presenting the grammaticalization/pragmaticalization processes as well as the semantic and functional behavior of certain lexical items in Romanian, such as: cică ( zice că „it is said that”), cea că ( zice că „it is said that”), ceancă ( ziceam că „I said that”), oz(â)că ( o zâs că „he/she said that”) and ozâncă ( o fi zâcând că „he/she maybe says that”). In fact, we are going to highlight that all these words configure in the spoken Romanian language and in particular in its dialectal register, a real microsystem of marking indirect citational evidentiality, while updating the tripartite distinction proposed by Willet (1988, p. 96) between: Second-hand evidence (hearsay) (ceancă) vs. Third-hand evidence (hearsay) (oz(â)că, ozâncă) vs. Information from the folklore (cică, ce că, cea că). Furthermore, all these discursive units found most often in the Oltenian sub-dialect of Dacoromanian and, in particular, in the patois of Oltenia area, implement a model of grammati¬ca¬lization and pragmaticalization, obtained by the combination of a dicendi verb agglutinated with the conjunction că „that”, extremely productive not only in Romanian, but also in other Romance languages (see, for example, Popescu & Duță 2023). In this context, our empirical and analytical approach, situated at the interface of linguistic pragmatics and dialectology, is composed of two large parts (except the introductory segment and the final considerations): (i) a first part which outlines the theoretical framework in the area of evidentiality and describes the model of grammaticalization/pragmaticalization of the lexical units of our research, also regarded from a Romance typological perspective and (ii) a second part which analyzes the semantic and functional behavior of these five words, while categorizing their uses and their discursive values according to the theoretical framework presented above.
On-demand insurance: idea, development, impact on market equilibrium
Authors: Kuryłowicz Łukasz , Krišto Jakša
Published: October 2024

The article presents the definition, idea, development, and current state of a new business model known as on-demand insurance which has been in existence since the early 21st century. Moreover, the article does not only describe the premises behind the development of this new method of creating value for clients of insurance companies and the opportunities that appear in the market but also addresses the challenges that insurance providers can encounter. Based on the analysis and available source materials, the most interesting types of these insurance products and the entities that include such products in the portfolios were presented. In addition, some new regulatory challenges and trends were described. The purpose of this study is to analyse the behaviour of the insurance market after the introduction of on-demand products in light of the classical definition of equilibrium in a competitive insurance market under conditions of information asymmetry. The authors analysed the economic implications of implementing on-demand insurance, demonstrating its potential to enhance the overall welfare of the insured population by increasing utility for certain risk groups of clients.
Wpływ dyrektywy IDD na regulację umowy ubezpieczenia w Wielkiej Brytanii
Authors: Sokoli Engjell
Published: October 2024

Dyrektywa o dystrybucji ubezpieczeń jest przedmiotem zainteresowania dogmatyki krajowej oraz praktyków prawa z uwagi na swój istotny wpływ na obowiązki informacyjno-doradcze dystrybutorów ubezpieczeń. Badanie wpływu dyrektywy IDD na inne porządki prawne może dostarczyć inspirującego materiału do rozważań nad optymalnym modelem implementacji dyrektywy IDD w Polsce. W ramach tekstu podjęto próbę analizy wpływu dyrektywy IDD na obowiązki dystrybutorów w Wielkiej Brytanii, ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem przepisów prawa angielskiego podwyższających standard ochrony przewidziany na podstawie dyrektywy IDD. Głównym celem artykułu jest poszukiwanie optymalnego modelu implementacji dyrektywy IDD w prawie krajowym, który będzie uwzględniać unijną zasadę efektywności.
Ambiente alimentar comunitário e identificação de desertos e pântanos alimentares em uma cidade de Minas Gerais
Authors: Pereira Priscila Moreira de Lima , Nogueira Mario Cirio , Candido Ana Paula Carlos
Published: October 2024

Introdução: O ambiente alimentar é a interface do consumidor com o sistema alimentar para adquirir os alimentos que consome. Objetivo: Avaliar o ambiente alimentar comunitário, identificando regiões de desertos e pântanos alimentares e associações com características socioeconômicas em uma cidade de Minas Gerais. Material e Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo ecológico. Os estabelecimentos que comercializam alimentos foram categorizados segundo a Câmara Interministerial de Segurança Alimentar e Nutricional (CAISAN). Os desertos alimentares foram classificados utilizando-se a metodologia da CAISAN e os pântanos alimentares segundo o Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC). A distribuição dos estabelecimentos e a presença de desertos e pântanos alimentares foram associados ao Índice de Vulnerabilidade da Saúde (IVS) e às características socioeconômicas. Resultados: 9,4% dos estabelecimentos são de aquisição de alimentos in natura e 35,2% de ultraprocessados. Nas regiões de alto IVS, há maiores proporções de comércios de alimentos in natura e, nas regiões de baixo IVS, há um maior número de comércios de alimentos ultraprocessados. Os desertos alimentares foram mais prevalentes em regiões de baixo IVS. Conclusão: Os achados deste trabalho possibilitam compreender a distribuição dos estabelecimentos que comercializam alimentos no município, contribuindo para orientar a implementação de políticas públicas.
Evaluación de políticas públicas de los factores Ciencia y Tecnología de los departamentos de Córdoba, Atlántico y Bogotá D.C
Authors: Hernández Helmer Muñoz , Perez Daniela Maria Usta , Tuberquia Natalia Muñoz , Iriarte Nathalia Muñoz , Casarrubia Mayerli Villorina , Yánez María Camila Berrio , Berrocal Tatiana Del Carmen Estrada
Published: October 2024

En este trabajo se evalúa la eficiencia de las políticas públicas del factor Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación (CTI) de los departamentos Córdoba, Atlántico y de Bogotá Distrito Capital. Esto se hace, describiendo los principales componentes del factor CTI, diagnosticando la situación competitiva de los departamentos y del distrito, mediante el uso de diferentes indicadores para poder realizar un comparativo de la política departamental de CTI.
A partir de los resultados estudiados, se observa que Bogotá es la ciudad más competitiva a nivel nacional y la líder en las áreas de CTI. Por el contrario, Córdoba se encuentra en un retraso considerable, incluso frente a Atlántico, por lo que se recomienda una mayor integración y participación de entes públicos y privados mediante la implementación de políticas que promuevan realmente el desarrollo científico, tecnológico e innovador. El fortalecimiento del vínculo Universidad-Empresa-Estado es la clave para el mejoramiento de los índices de competitividad del país en general y del departamento de Córdoba en particular.
Investigating predictors in parenteral to oral switch of Analgesia in postoperative patients: An observational study
Authors: Y Sandhya , Sami Hafsa , Kanjamala Clint Joe , Gopan Swetha
Published: October 2024

Introduction: A thorough understanding of various routes of analgesic administration and their limitations enables pain therapists to effectively manage postoperative pain, reduce the risk of chronic pain development, and enhance patient satisfaction. Considerations such as pain type, patient preferences and medical conditions guide the selection of the most appropriate administration method and dosage form for optimal outcomes. This observational study aimed to investigate the factors associated with the switch of analgesic medication from parenteral to oral in postoperative patients. Methods: This study was conducted for six months among 305 patients at a tertiary care teaching hospital, Davangere, India. The data about patient was collected through case sheets and was analyzed with IBM SPSS Version 25 for windows. Results: The study conducted on 305 patients found that the switch was mostly done within the time interval of 2-4 days. The combination of paracetamol and tramadol (22.6%) was the main drug of choice for switch. The switch from parenteral to oral analgesia was not found to be significantly associated with age, severity of pain, or length of hospital stay. Conclusion: Although switching between parenteral and oral routes of analgesic administration appears to be effective in managing surgical patients, but the decision to switch does not seem to be influenced by the hypothesized factors.
Efecto varietal al daño de pulgón del follaje sobre el rendimiento de trigo harinero en agricultura orgánica. Valle del Yaqui, Sonora, México
Authors: Avalos Alma Angélica Ortiz , Jiménez Juan Manuel Cortés , Rosas-Jáuregui Ivón Alejandra , Félix-Fuentes José Luis
Published: October 2024

En el CENEB-INIFAP, en el ciclo O/I 2022-2023, se establecieron las variedades de trigo Borlaug 100 y RSM Norman F2008 en un terreno con certificación orgánica. Se presentaron problemas de infección de pulgón, en RSM Norman F2008 en etapa 30 de Zadoks y en Borlaug 100 en la etapa 39 de Zadoks. Del área afectada por pulgón, se recolectaron las muestras con incidencia a pulgón y a medio metro de distacia a lo largo del surco las muestras sin pulgón. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar el efecto varietal al daño de pulgón del follaje sobre las variables RG, RP, P100granos y %HUM. Los resultados mostraron un RG, RP, P100granos y %HUM promedio de 6.876 t ha-1, 8.631 t ha-1, 4.618 gramos y 9.82% en la variedad RSM Norman F2008 sin pulgón, y de 1.670 t ha-1, 9.109 t ha-1, 2.135 gramos y 7.80% respectivamente, en muestras con incidencia a pulgón. Para la variedad Borlaug 100 respetando el orden respectivo de las variables descritas anteriormente, se reportaron los valores 3.731 t ha-1, 5.641 t ha-1, 5.123 gramos y 9.30 % en las muestras sin pulgón y 3.248 t ha-1, 5.847 t ha-1, 4.295 gramos y 7.89% en las muestras con incidencia a pulgón. Para efectos de esta evaluación se concluye que la variedad RSM Norman F2008, resultó más susceptible que la Borlaug 100 al ataque por pulgón del follaje; la presencia de pulgón afecta negativamente el RG, RP, P100granos y %HUM de trigo harinero; la infección por pulgón depende de la variedad que se utiliza.
Agrofloresta no semiárido cearense: conservação, produção e renda
Authors: Pessoa João Paulo Matos , Barbosa Monica de Moura , Ziegler Henrique Ricardo Souza , Oliveira Vládia Pinto Vidal de , Pitombeira Rafael Soares de Souza , Vieira Lucas Vasconcelos
Published: October 2024

O objetivo desse trabalho foi estudar um Sistema Agroflorestal (SAF), com cultivo de milho, feijão e cajueiro, em seus aspectos de conservação ambiental, produtividade de grãos de milho e viabilidade econômica. O trabalho foi desenvolvido entre os anos de 2008 a 2012 no município de Bela Cruz, Ceará, Brasil. Foram avaliados três tratamentos experimentais: SAF Convencional (SAFc), no qual o cultivo se deu somente nas condições do SAF sem insumos externos; já no SAF adubado (SAFa) foi adicionado 116 g de esterco ovino in natura em cada cova, além de recobrir o solo com a bagana da folha da carnaubeira (Copernicia prunifera) na proporção de 16 toneladas por hectare; o terceiro tratamento consistia no sistema local de produção, denominado agricultura itinerante (AI), obtido utilizando questionários semiestruturados com produtores locais. Os tratamentos SAFc e SAFa conseguiram fixar a agricultura e evitar a abertura de novas áreas de cultivo, auxiliando na conservação dos recursos naturais da Caatinga. Observou-se uma média crescente de produção de grãos entre os tratamentos AI, SAFc e SAFa, de 240, 250 e 1.111 kg/ha, respectivamente. Apenas o SAFa mostra-se viável economicamente e acumula receitas com o passar dos anos, gera renda para o produtor. Já os sistemas de AI e SAFc apresenta indicadores negativos.
Detection of antibiotic residues by a novel rapid test in cow’s milk from north Algeria
Authors: Samari Houssem , Benfodil Karima , Abdeli Amine , Kaci Nadir , Ghida Dhaouia , Hamichi Dallal , Mahfoud Ikram , Kerfouf Sabrina , Kechad Cylia , Hammami Amel
Published: October 2024

Detection of antibiotic residues by a novel rapid test in cow’s milk from north Algeria
Veterinary treatments, particularly antibiotics used for therapeutic or prophylactic purposes in dairy cattle, can be the cause of antibiotic residues in raw milk.  The aim of this study is to investigate the use of antibiotics in the dairy cattle industry and to detect the presence of antibiotic residues in raw milk at collection centers using the SNAPduo ST Plus Test in the Bouira and Bordj Bou Arreridj (BBA) regions of Algeria. The results of the survey of 114 breeders showed that the Montbeliarde and Holstein breeds are the most dominant in the farms studied, the frequency of veterinary interventions in cattle farming is always, the curative veterinary intervention represents the highest rate and the beta-lactam is the most family used with 46.25% in Bouira and 85% in BBA, then the oxytetracycline was 22.5% and 15% respectively. Regarding the use of antibiotics by breeders, the majority of them use antibiotics for their animals, with 76.25% in the region of Bouira and 91% in the province of BBA. The antibiotic test of 122 samples of raw milk showed that 19.67% (24/122) of the samples were positive for antibiotic residues with the beta-lactam showing the highest value (79.16%) followed by tetracycline residues with 20.83%. This study showed the presence of antibiotic residues in raw milk in the study area, which may affect the health of dairy consumers.
Evaluación de cuatro tipos de alimentación para la producción de lombriz coqueta roja (Eisenia foetida Savigny, 1826)
Authors: Valdés Martin Gerardo Martinez , Santiago Cesar Orlando Pozo , Suarez Patricia del Carmen Paredes
Published: October 2024

La importancia de la lombricultura como sistema de producción integral sostenible permite la producción de abono orgánico, acido húmico y biomasa de lombrices, lo que permite aprovechar los residuos orgánicos de actividades productivas para la reproducción de esos organismos, el objetivo de la investigación fue evaluar cuatro tipos abono orgánico que funcionan como alimento para la reproducción de la lombriz coqueta roja (Eisenia foetida S.), como método se realizó bajo un diseño de bloques completamente al azar, con un kilo de lombriz de inicio para cada tratamiento, como factor de estudio el estiércol de bovino y ovino en su proporción y adición de insumos para el compostaje, se utilizaron cuatro tratamientos con mediciones hasta 130 días para el lixiviado. Como resultado se obtuvo que los tratamientos tienen una correlación de Pearson de -0.9004, lo que permite establecer contrastes, con respecto a la generación de humus y merma, se tiene diferencia significativa menor al 0.05 de F, en cuanto a los tratamientos el T3 50% Estiércol de bovino, 10% de pasto verde picado, 30% residuo de cocina (hojas) y 10% de hoja de Guácimo (Guazuma ulmifolia Lam.) deshidratada, presentó la mayor cantidad de humus con 42.5 kg y la menor merma con 7.5 kg, una cosecha de trampeo de 2.7 kg de lombriz y 60 litros de lixiviado en 95 días, se concluye en el ensayo que el tratamiento de estiércol de bovino, pasto verde picado, residuos de cocina, hojas de guácimo deshidratada, es una opción para reproducción de lombriz coqueta roja (Eisenia foetida S.), en condiciones semicontroladas.