bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Exploration of Skill Gaps and Ecosystem Potential among Estonian Creatives
Authors: Bauters Merja Lina , Tokranova Darja , De Silva Liyanachchi Mahesha Harshani , Mets Juri
Published: September 2023

Recent studies on Estonia’s creative economy show a growth in employment in the country’s creative sector and an overall increase in generated revenue. However, some areas need improvements, such as the international export of talent and art, interdisciplinary collaboration, and digital skills in strategy building and creating ecosystems. This study explores which skills and tools Estonian creatives are using, lacking, and willing to obtain, and focuses on collaboration manners and attitudes towards cross-sectoral ecosystems. The methodology is composed of a participatory co-design approach with quantitative and qualitative data sources, including background research on industry mapping and economic statistical indicators, semi-structured interviews with industry professionals and stakeholders, and co-design workshops with local creatives. Data were collected from recordings and transcribed, and the co-design workshop post-it notes were digitalised. The data were analysed from the bottom-up and mapped top-down with the 21st-century skills and ecosystem approach. Our current studies show that knowledge transfer and collaboration (across industry sectors, NGOs, and academia) are critical in a small country with a small population, intertwined with dynamic ecosystem building. Creative people upscale and continuously deepen their professional skills (digital and non-digital) in a lifelong learning manner. The current study found that specialising is hard since sustainable values, including those that promote degrowth, are involved.
Synthetic Data as a Proxy for Real-World Electronic Health Records in the Patient Length of Stay Prediction
Authors: Bietsch Dominik , Stahlbock Robert , Voß Stefan
Published: September 2023

While generative artificial intelligence has gained popularity, e.g., for the creation of images, it can also be used for the creation of synthetic tabular data. This bears great potential, especially for the healthcare industry, where data are often scarce and underlie privacy restrictions. For instance, the creation of synthetic electronic health records (EHR) promises to improve the usage of machine learning algorithms, which usually work with large amounts of data. This also applies for the prediction of the patient length of stay (LOS), a key measure for hospitals. Thereby, the LOS represents one of the core tools for decision makers to plan the allocation of resources. Thus, this paper aims to add to the still-young research concerning the application of generative adversarial nets (GAN) on tabular EHR. It does that with the intention to leverage the advantages of synthetic data for the prediction of the LOS in order to contribute to the efficiency-enhancing and cost-saving aspirations of hospitals and insurance companies. Therefore, the applicability of synthetic data that is generated using GANs as a proxy for scarce real-world EHR for the patient LOS multi-class classification task is examined. In this context, the Conditional Tabular GAN (CTGAN) and the Copula GAN are selected as the underlying models as they are state-of-the-art GAN architectures designed for generating synthetic tabular data. The CTGAN is found to be the superior model for the underlying use case. Nevertheless, the paper shows that there is still room for improvement when applying state-of-the-art GAN architectures to clinical healthcare data.
The Contribution of Green Marketing in the Development of a Sustainable Destination through Advanced Clustering Methods
Authors: Gheorghe Georgică , Tudorache Petronela , Roşca Ioan Mihai
Published: September 2023

Against the backdrop of increasing concern for the environment, tourism activities have had a mixed impact. For example, in the field of marketing communications, the last few years have seen many companies promoting “green” tourism. In this context, this article aims to identify the group(s) focused on green tourism or sustainable development in order to predict their future trends. To achieve this objective, quantitative research was conducted based on an online survey distributed through social media. Several objectives were considered in the research, focusing on the behavior of the respondents, the decisive elements in choosing a destination, the analysis of socio-demographic characteristics, and the identification of groups oriented to the practice of green tourism. Univariate analysis was applied to the collected data (to identify the most appropriate variables for clustering) and multivariate analysis (using three types of methods: Ward, Centroid, and Two-Step Cluster). The following results emerged from the research analysis: characteristics of each segment in relation to question nine and profiles of all segments, of which the most representative (two, five, and six) stand out. The segments extracted with Ward’s method were created by the authors to highlight the most important characteristics: Smilers, Ecologists, Villagers, Relaxed, Luxury, Ecotourists, and Jobless. The research results contribute to a deeper understanding of Romanian customers’ needs when choosing a green destination, but also support the business community by providing economic actors with access to data to segment their solutions and services offered to customers, as well as the possibility to develop tailored products/services. The study represents a new approach to tourism and ‘green marketing’ in Romania by being the only one that shows to interested parties the seven specific consumer segments for the green tourism market in Romania, one that approaches the two fields in close connection. The results represent a significant theoretical advance for travel and tourism studies and provide valuable insights into the green tourism sector.
Life Cycle Assessment for Photovoltaic Structures—Comparative Study of Rooftop and Free-Field PV Applications
Authors: Neumüller Anna , Geier Stefan , Österreicher Doris
Published: September 2023

The European Union has set itself the goal of increasing its share in renewable energy up to 42.5% by 2030 by accelerating the clean energy transition plan. National legislation within the Member States must now adapt the strategic plans to rapidly implement their allocation in renewable energy. Solar photovoltaics are in this context considered to be one of the technologies that could rapidly be rolled out, with both building-integrated as well as free-field photovoltaic systems needed to reach these ambitious goals. There are strong arguments for prioritizing photovoltaics on buildings, as they make use of land that is already sealed, and the environmental impact is considered lower as fewer resources might be needed for the structures holding the panels. However, since there is limited literature available to back this claim with quantitative data, this paper presents a comparative study of the structures needed to implement rooftop versus free-field photovoltaic applications. With a detailed life cycle analysis, several commonly used structures have been analyzed in relation to their environmental impact. The findings show that the impact on resources can be up to 50% lower in rooftop systems compared with free-field applications but that a series of site- and material-related factors need to be considered to prioritize one system over another on a regional scale. This study thus aims at providing fact-based decision support for strategic considerations related to photovoltaic implementation plans.
Spatio-Temporal Characteristics of Industrial Carbon Emission Efficiency and Their Impacts from Digital Economy at Chinese Prefecture-Level Cities
Authors: Jun Lyu , Lu Shuang , Li Xiang , Li Zeng , Cao Chenglong
Published: September 2023

In the pursuit of China’s dual carbon goals, identifying spatio-temporal changes in industrial carbon emission efficiency and their influencing factors in cities at different stages of development is the key to effective formulation of countermeasures to promote the low-carbon transformation of Chinese national industry and achieve high-quality economic development. In this study, we used balanced panel data of 270 Chinese cities from 2005 to 2020 as a research object: (1) to show spatio-temporal evolution patterns in urban industrial carbon emission efficiency; (2) to analyze the aggregation characteristics of industrial carbon emission efficiency in Chinese cities using Global Moran’s I statistics; and (3) to use the hierarchical regression model for panel data to assess the non-linear impact of the digital economy on the industrial carbon emission efficiency of cities. The results show the following: (1) the industrial carbon emission efficiency of Chinese cities exhibited an upward trend from 2005 to 2020, with a spatial distribution pattern of high in the south and low in the north; (2) China’s urban industrial carbon emission efficiency is characterized by significant spatial autocorrelation, with increasing and stabilizing correlation, and a relatively fixed pattern of spatial agglomeration; (3) there is a significant inverted-U-shaped relationship between the digital economy and the industrial carbon emission efficiency of cities. The digital economy increases carbon emissions and inhibits industrial carbon emission efficiency in the early stages of development but inhibits carbon emissions and promotes industrial carbon emission efficiency in mature developmental stages. Therefore, cities at all levels should reduce pollution and carbon emissions from high-energy-consuming and high-polluting enterprises, gradually reduce carbon-intensive industries, and accelerate the digital transformation and upgrading of enterprises. Western, central, and eastern regions especially should seek to promote the sharing of innovation resources, strengthen exchanges and interactions relating to scientific and technological innovation, and jointly explore coordinated development routes for the digital economy.
English Classroom Anxiety, Learning Style and English Achievement in Chinese University EFL Students
Authors: Liu Meihua
Published: September 2023

The present study examined the relationship between English classroom anxiety (ECA) and learning style and their predictive effects on students’ English achievement. In total, 691 Chinese university EFL (English as a foreign language) students answered the English Classroom Anxiety Scale, the Perceptual Learning Styles Preferences Questionnaire and a background information questionnaire. Major findings were: (a) the two scales were highly reliable and significantly inversely related to each other, (b) the respondents generally had a medium ECA level and selected auditory, kinesthetic, visual, tactile, group and individual styles as their minor preferences, (c) no significant differences occurred in ECA levels between students of varying genders and disciplines, (d) male students preferred group learning significantly more and individual learning significantly less than their female peers, and engineering students preferred group learning significantly more and individual learning significantly less than their peers of social sciences and humanities, (e) ECA was significantly negatively correlated with and predicted students’ English achievement, and (f) each learning style was significantly positively correlated with students’ English achievement, and visual and group styles significantly positively predicated the latter. These findings confirm the role of foreign language anxiety and learning style in second/foreign language learning.
Configuration of Conditions Leading to High National Innovation Competitiveness: A Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis Approach
Authors: Zhang Maping , Wang Zongjun , Wang Xue
Published: September 2023

Under the conditions of economic integration and globalization, the importance of national innovation competitiveness is rapidly increasing. In order to study what combination of conditions can generate higher national innovation competitiveness, this study proposes an improved integrated framework for national innovation competitiveness and it examines the allocation conditions that affect the innovation competitiveness of countries with different income levels using data from the Global Competitiveness Report 2019. This research finds that, first, the means of achieving high innovation competitiveness output are more diversified for high-income and upper-middle-income countries, with countries at these two economic levels achieving high innovation competitiveness output in three scenarios. Second, lower-middle-income countries have a more homogeneous configuration for achieving high innovation competitiveness outputs, with only one scenario, which still holds after a series of robustness tests. Third, for high-income countries, commercialization is a key element affecting their innovation competitiveness enhancement. The study not only bridges the gap between existing theories and research methods but also provides a useful reference for countries at different levels of economic development to improve their innovation competitiveness.
Optimisation of Anaerobic Digestate and Chemical Fertiliser Application to Enhance Rice Yield—A Machine-Learning Approach
Authors: Show Binoy Kumar , Panja Suraj , GhoshThakur Richik , Basu Aman , Koley Apurba , Ghosh Anudeb , Pramanik Kalipada , Chaudhury Shibani , Hazra Amit Kumar , Dey Narottam , Ross Andrew B. , Balachandran Srinivasan
Published: September 2023

The present study evaluates the synergistic application of an anaerobic digestate for enhanced rice yield. The study utilised the digestate as a fertiliser with various inoculum-to-substrate (IS) ratios of anaerobic digestion from cow dung and water hyacinth (CW–BF) with combinations of NPK (16-22-22) fertiliser for rice yield optimisation. The outcome of the combined digestate and fertiliser application on rice cultivation was observed in terms of parameters such as the number of tillers, panicle number, panicle length, fertile panicles, and 1000-grain weight. The digestate combination of CW–BF:NPK (3:1:1) resulted in the highest grain yield (7521 kg/hectare) with increased panicle length, test weight, and more filled grains than the other combinations. Moreover, various machine-learning approaches were used to study the efficacy of the different combinations of applied fertiliser (cow dung, water hyacinth, and NPK). The gradient-boosting machine-learning model was appropriate for predicting the modelling based on the measured data. Principal component analysis revealed NPK as the first principal component with high loading values and the digestate as the second principal component, which indicates its crucial role in fertiliser preparation. Therefore, deploying such hybridised fertilisers using the proper statistical analysis and machine-learning approaches can improve rice yield, which would be essential for the socio-economic uplifting of marginal rice farmers.
Defining Natural Habitat Types as Nature-Based Solutions in Urban Planning
Authors: Dremel Manca , Goličnik Marušić Barbara , Zelnik Igor
Published: September 2023

This study focuses on solving urban challenges, such as temperature reduction, urban stormwater management, noise reduction, air quality improvement, and CO2 concentration reduction, and suggests terrestrial and freshwater habitat types (HTs) found in Europe as innovative forms of nature-based solutions (NBSs). Establishing native HTs in various urban environments to solve urban challenges would enhance biodiversity at different levels and integrate this aspect into urban planning. This contribution builds on the recognition that vegetated surfaces are the most versatile NBS for addressing the broadest range of environmental problems in urban areas and on the understanding that the processes running within these green spaces offer the key to socio-ecological improvements of such areas. Employing a narrative literature review, qualitative content analysis, and interdisciplinary expert discussion, this paper defines why and how unaltered native HTs can be implemented as NBSs in the urban environment, indicates potential HTs for specific urban challenges, and presents an approach to the inclusion of HTs as NBSs in spatial planning documents at national, regional, and local levels. The proposed planning approach attributes added value to HTs and, by linking the concepts of NBSs and HTs, integrates them into urban planning.
The Location Choice and Survival of Polluting Firms under Environmental Regulation in Urban Agglomerations of China
Authors: Li Zhi , Zhou Saijiao , Zhang Zuo
Published: September 2023

There are few studies discussing the relationship between the increasing intensity of environmental regulation in the central cities of urban agglomerations, which is the main method used to solve the problem of regional environmental pollution, with the survival status of polluting firms in different spatial locations. In order to more clearly describe the evolution trend of the spatial distribution of polluting firms and coordinate inter-city environmental regulation policies in a more targeted manner, we examine the impact of polluting firms’ location choice on their survival under the central–periphery spatial structure in national-level urban agglomerations from 1998 to 2013 with the accelerated failure time (AFT) model and Cox proportional hazards (Cox PH) model and using matching data of the Chinese Industrial Enterprise Database and the Chinese Industrial Enterprise Pollution Emission Database. The results find that (1) under the influence of central cities’ environmental regulations, there is likely to be an inverted U-shaped relationship between the survival of polluting firms and their spatial distance from the central cities; (2) the inverted U-shaped relationship is the motivation of the interaction between environmental regulation and market potential, which means increases in the environmental regulation intensity in the central cities of the urban agglomeration will have a negative effect on the survival of polluting firms, and the central cities’ market potential will partially offset the negative impact; (3) the inverted U-shaped relationship is more significant for private firms, and it does not necessarily exist for new entrants. The above results help to provide important policy inspiration for promoting the joint prevention and control mechanism for pollution in urban agglomerations and coordinate the effects of environmental regulation and economic transformation policies between central and peripheral cities.
Unlocking the Potential of E-Commerce in Yemen: Identifying Key Impacting Factors and Exploring Strategic Solutions
Authors: Al Harazi Yaser Khaled , Tian Gang , Shah Syed Ahsan Ali , Al Harazi Ahmed Khaled , Alwan Saleh Yahya , Amer Amr Mohammed Ali
Published: September 2023

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the e-commerce ecosystem in Yemen, identifying key opportunities and impacting factors to growth, and suggesting suitable strategies for e-commerce startups. The study employs an integrated methodical approach, combining a literature review, and data analysis using Grey Analytic Hierarchy Process (Grey AHP) and Grey Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (Grey TOPSIS). The literature review identifies opportunities, challenges, and strategic solutions. The Grey AHP assesses the relative importance of opportunities and challenges. The Grey TOPSIS ranks the best strategies that e-commerce startups in Yemen can adopt to leverage these opportunities and manage the negative effects of the barriers. The results show that large market potential, the underserved market, and the growing middle class represent the most significant opportunities. In contrast, economic and political instability, logistical challenges, and the lack of trust in online payments are the most significant impacting factors. To overcome these challenges, the top three strategies recommended are building strategic partnerships, offering secure payment and delivery options, and targeting the underserved market. By implementing these strategies, the e-commerce ecosystem in Yemen can prosper, take advantage of opportunities, and contribute to the country’s economic development.
The Numerical Solution of Nonlinear Fractional Lienard and Duffing Equations Using Orthogonal Perceptron
Authors: Verma Akanksha , Sumelka Wojciech , Yadav Pramod Kumar
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes an approximation algorithm based on the Legendre and Chebyshev artificial neural network to explore the approximate solution of fractional Lienard and Duffing equations with a Caputo fractional derivative. These equations show the oscillating circuit and generalize the spring–mass device equation. The proposed approach transforms the given nonlinear fractional differential equation (FDE) into an unconstrained minimization problem. The simulated annealing (SA) algorithm minimizes the mean square error. The proposed techniques examine various non-integer order problems to verify the theoretical results. The numerical results show that the proposed approach yields better results than existing methods.
Shape Preserving Properties of Parametric Szász Type Operators on Unbounded Intervals
Authors: Dong Hui , Qi Qiulan
Published: September 2023

The Be´zier-type operator has become a powerful tool in operator theory, neural networks, curve and surface design and representation because of its good shape-preserving properties. Motivated by the improvements of the operator in computational disciplines, we investigate some elementary properties of two kinds of modified Sza´sz type basis functions, depending on non-negative parameters. Using the derivative, the symmetry of variables, the modulus of continuity and the concave continuous modulus, we study some shape preserving properties of these operators concerning monotonicity, convexity, starshapedness, semi-additivity and the preservation of smoothness. Moreover, some illustrative examples are provided to demonstrate the approximation behavior of the proposed operators and the classical ones.
A Study of Anchor Cable and C-Shaped Tube Support for the Roadway of Shuangliu Coal Mine
Authors: Li Li , Kong Xiang-Song , Yang Wei , Huang Jun-Wei , Wang Zhi-En
Published: September 2023

Active support using highly prestressed cable bolts and anchor cables has become a mainstream support technology for coal mine roadways. However, the ability of bolts and anchor cables to withstand transverse shear decreases with the prestress level, jeopardizing mining safety. This study proposed a technical solution to this problem featuring anchor cables enclosed in an axisymmetrical tube with a C-shaped cross-section (ACC), which are highly prestressed and can withstand high transverse shear. The ACC mechanical performance was tested in the #318 gas extraction roadway of the Shuangliu Coal Mine, China, characterized by extensive deformation under original support conditions. Theoretical analysis, laboratory tests, numerical simulation, and field tests were performed to analyze the shear mechanical properties of the ACC and anchor cables alone. The double shear test results revealed that the proposed ACC scheme increased the transverse shear resistance and stiffness by 10–25% and 20–40%, respectively. The FLAC3D numerical simulation showed that the roof-and-floor and rib-to-rib convergences decreased by 9.53 and 25.11%, respectively. The area of the stress concentration zone also decreased. Field monitoring showed that the ACC achieved good support performance. During the monitoring period, the maximum roof-and-floor and rib-to-rib displacements were 40 and 49 mm, respectively. The ACC scheme offered adequate shear resistance and effectively controlled surrounding rock deformation in the gas extraction roadway under study, making it applicable to similar engineering scenarios.
Analysis of Implicit Solutions for a Coupled System of Hybrid Fractional Order Differential Equations with Hybrid Integral Boundary Conditions in Banach Algebras
Authors: Awad Yahia , Alkhezi Yousuf
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates the existence and uniqueness of implicit solutions in a coupled symmetry system of hybrid fractional order differential equations, along with hybrid integral boundary conditions in Banach Algebras. The methodology centers on a hybrid fixed-point theorem that involves mixed Lipschitz and Carathéodory conditions, serving to establish the existence of solutions. Moreover, it derives sufficient conditions for solution uniqueness and establishes the Hyers–Ulam types of solution stability. This study contributes valuable insights into complex hybrid fractional order systems and their practical implications.
How Does Interactive Narrative Design Affect the Consumer Experience of Mobile Interactive Video Advertising?
Authors: Gu Chao , Lin Shuyuan , Wei Wei , Yang Chun , Chen Jiangjie , Miao Wei , Sun Jie , Zeng Yingjie
Published: September 2023

With the rapid spread of mobile devices and the Internet, mobile interactive video advertising has become an increasingly popular means of accessing advertising information for a large number of users. Interactive narratives are advertisements that require collaboration between consumers and designers to complete the story. Interactive narratives influence marketing impact and the advertising experience. Building on previous research, this study delves deeper into the design methods of interactive narratives for mobile video advertisements. We developed various interactive narrative samples by controlling video quality parameters, content, and product involvement, and then measured consumer perceptions of these samples in a laboratory environment. The results indicate that six design methods for interactive narratives foster positive perceptions, immersion, and satisfaction in advertisements with low product involvement. For ads with a high degree of product involvement, two design methods can achieve positive consumer perceptions of interactive narratives. This study offers insights for businesses and interaction designers aiming to advance the commercial use of mobile interactive video advertising. At the same time, we propose a design method for mobile interactive video advertising that can also serve as an entry point for theoretical research on interactive narratives.
Development of a Generic PBK Model for Human Biomonitoring with an Application to Deoxynivalenol
Authors: Notenboom Sylvia , Hoogenveen Rudolf T. , Zeilmaker Marco J. , Van den Brand Annick D. , Assunção Ricardo , Mengelers Marcel J. B.
Published: September 2023

Toxicokinetic modelling provides a powerful tool in relating internal human exposure (i.e., assessed through urinary biomarker levels) to external exposure. Chemical specific toxicokinetic models are available; however, this specificity prevents their application to similar contaminants or to other routes of exposure. For this reason, we investigated whether a generic physiological-based kinetic (PBK) model might be a suitable alternative for a biokinetic model of deoxynivalenol (DON). IndusChemFate (ICF) was selected as a generic PBK model, which could be fit for purpose. Being suited for simulating multiple routes of exposure, ICF has particularly been used to relate the inhalation and dermal exposure of industrial chemicals to their urinary excretion. For the first time, the ICF model was adapted as a generic model for the human biomonitoring of mycotoxins, thereby extending its applicability domain. For this purpose, chemical-specific data for DON and its metabolites were collected directly from the literature (distribution and metabolism) or indirectly (absorption and excretion) by fitting the ICF model to previously described urinary excretion data. The obtained results indicate that this generic model can be used to model the urinary excretion of DON and its glucuronidated metabolites following dietary exposure to DON. Additionally, the present study establishes the basis for further development of the model to include an inhalation exposure route alongside the oral exposure route.
Placental Infection Associated with SARS-CoV-2 Wildtype Variant and Variants of Concern
Authors: Medel-Martinez Ana , Paules Cristina , Peran María , Calvo Pilar , Ruiz-Martinez Sara , Ormazabal Cundin María , Cebollada-Solanas Alberto , Strunk Mark , Schoorlemmer Jon , Oros Daniel , Fabre Marta
Published: September 2023

The original SARS-CoV-2 lineages have been replaced by successive variants of concern (VOCs) over time. The aim of this study was to perform an assessment of the placental infection by SARS-CoV-2 according to the predominant variant at the moment of COVID-19 diagnosis. This was a prospective study of SARS-CoV-2-positive pregnant women between March 2020 and March 2022. The population was divided into pregnancies affected by COVID-19 disease during 2020 (Pre-VOC group) and pregnancies affected after December 2020 by SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC group). The presence of virus was assessed by RT-PCR, and the viral variant was determined by whole genome sequencing. A total of 104 placentas were examined, among which 54 cases belonged to the Pre-VOC group and 50 cases belonged to the VOC group. Sixteen positive placental RT-PCR tests for SARS-CoV-2 were reported. The NGS analysis confirmed the SARS-CoV-2 lineage in placenta tissue. All samples corresponded to the Pre-VOC group, whereas no placental presence of SARS-CoV-2 was detected in the VOC group (16, 29.6% vs. 0, 0.0% p = 0.000). Preterm birth (9, 16.7% vs. 2, 4%; p = 0.036) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (14, 25.9% vs. 3, 6%; p = 0.003) were more frequent in the Pre-VOC group than in the VOC group. Finally, the VOC group was composed of 23 unvaccinated and 27 vaccinated pregnant women; no differences were observed in the sub-analysis focused on vaccination status. In summary, SARS-CoV-2-positive placentas were observed only in pregnancies infected by SARS-CoV-2 wildtype. Thus, placental SARS-CoV-2 presence could be influenced by SARS-CoV-2 variants, infection timing, or vaccination status. According to our data, the current risk of SARS-CoV-2 placental infection after maternal COVID disease during pregnancy should be updated.
Characterization and Comparative Genomic Analysis of a Deep-Sea Bacillus Phage Reveal a Novel Genus
Authors: Chen Yuan , Zhang Tianyou , Lai Qiliang , Zhang Menghui , Yu Meishun , Zeng Runying , Jin Min
Published: September 2023

As the most abundant biological entities, viruses are the major players in marine ecosystems. However, our knowledge on virus diversity and virus–host interactions in the deep sea remains very limited. In this study, vB_BteM-A9Y, a novel bacteriophage infecting Bacillus tequilensis, was isolated from deep-sea sediments in the South China Sea. vB_BteM-A9Y has a hexametric head and a long, complex contractile tail, which are typical features of myophages. vB_BteM-A9Y initiated host lysis at 60 min post infection with a burst size of 75 PFU/cell. The phage genome comprises 38,634 base pairs and encodes 54 predicted open reading frames (ORFs), of which 27 ORFs can be functionally annotated by homology analysis. Interestingly, abundant ORFs involved in DNA damage repair were identified in the phage genome, suggesting that vB_BteM-A9Y encodes multiple pathways for DNA damage repair, which may help to maintain the stability of the host/phage genome. A BLASTn search of the whole genome sequence of vB_BteM-A9Y against the GenBank revealed no existing homolog. Consistently, a phylogenomic tree and proteome-based phylogenetic tree analysis showed that vB_BteM-A9Y formed a unique branch. Further comparative analysis of genomic nucleotide similarity and ORF homology of vB_BteM-A9Y with its mostly related phages showed that the intergenomic similarity between vB_BteM-A9Y and these phages was 0–33.2%. Collectively, based on the comprehensive morphological, phylogenetic, and comparative genomic analysis, we propose that vB_BteM-A9Y belongs to a novel genus under Caudoviricetes. Therefore, our study will increase our knowledge on deep-sea virus diversity and virus–host interactions, as well as expanding our knowledge on phage taxonomy.
microRNA-185 Inhibits SARS-CoV-2 Infection through the Modulation of the Host’s Lipid Microenvironment
Authors: Ahmed Nadine , Francis Magen E. , Ahmed Noreen , Kelvin Alyson A. , Pezacki John Paul
Published: September 2023

With the emergence of the novel betacoronavirus Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), there has been an urgent need for the development of fast-acting antivirals, particularly in dealing with different variants of concern (VOC). SARS-CoV-2, like other RNA viruses, depends on host cell machinery to propagate and misregulate metabolic pathways to its advantage. Herein, we discovered that the immunometabolic microRNA-185 (miR-185) restricts SARS-CoV-2 propagation by affecting its entry and infectivity. The antiviral effects of miR-185 were studied in SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein pseudotyped virus, surrogate virus (HCoV-229E), as well as live SARS-CoV-2 virus in Huh7, A549, and Calu-3 cells. In each model, we consistently observed microRNA-induced reduction in lipid metabolism pathways-associated genes including SREBP2, SQLE, PPARG, AGPAT3, and SCARB1. Interestingly, we also observed changes in angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) levels, the entry receptor for SARS-CoV-2. Taken together, these data show that miR-185 significantly restricts host metabolic and other pathways that appear to be essential to SAR-CoV-2 replication and propagation. Overall, this study highlights an important link between non-coding RNAs, immunometabolic pathways, and viral infection. miR-185 mimics alone or in combination with other antiviral therapeutics represent possible future fast-acting antiviral strategies that are likely to be broadly antiviral against multiple variants as well as different virus types of potential pandemics.
Source, Distribution and Transformation of Organic Matter in a Subtropical Karst Reservoir
Authors: Li Jianhong , Zhang Tao , Pu Junbing , Tang Xiangling , Xie Yincai , Xiao Qiong
Published: September 2023

In order to improve the understanding of the global carbon cycle and the stability of karst carbon sinks, it is necessary to better understand the source, distribution and transformation characteristics of organic matter (OM) in aquatic ecosystems. Here, stable isotope ratios (δ13C and δ15N), elemental analysis (C/N ratios), and lipid biomarkers were analyzed for dissolved organic matter (DOM) (<0.7 μm), particulate organic matter (POM) (>0.7 μm) of water, and organic matter from sediment cores (SCOM) to identify the sources, distribution, and transformation of OM in a subtropical karst reservoir. The results showed that short-chain (C14–20) n-alkyl lipids were more abundant than long-chain (C21–34) n-alkyl lipids in both the DOM and SCOM samples, indicating that bacteria were the primary sources of these lipids, while terrestrial organic matter (OM) made only a minor contribution to the n-alkyl lipid pool, and aquatic plants (macrophytes) OM contributed major contribution to the n-alkyl lipid pool in POM. Microbial activity and lipid degradation were more pronounced in the DOM. Furthermore, terrigenous and macrophyte-derived lipids were found to be more abundant in POM than in DOM and SCOM, suggesting that they are relatively resistant to degradation compared with phytoplankton-derived OM.
A Comparison of Ocean Wave Height Forecasting Methods for Ocean Wave Energy Conversion Systems
Authors: Guodong Qin , Zhongxian Chen
Published: September 2023

Ocean wave height plays an important role in the operation status of ocean wave energy conversion systems. In this paper, the future continuous ocean wave height within 2~3 s is forecasted by three methods, the autoregressive moving average model (ARMA) method, backpropagation (BP) neural network method, and radial basis function (RBF) neural network method. Then, the error between suggested forecast results and corresponding measured results are compared by the root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and correlation coefficient R. The comparison result indicates that the RBF neural network method is preferred to the other two methods, having the advantage of high accuracy. Lastly, the reasons for the errors of the three forecasting methods are analyzed. This study signifies that the RBF neural network method is beneficial to the operation control and efficiency improvement of ocean wave energy conversion systems.
Statistical Modeling of Water Shortage in Water Distribution Systems in Guangzhou
Authors: Cheng Weiping , Luo Huidan , Long Zhihong , Xu Gang , Tian Lin
Published: September 2023

In this study, data on water shortage events were collected from customer service systems. An analysis was conducted to establish the relationship between customers’ complaints and the water pressure flow conditions. A mathematical model was developed to estimate the probability of water shortage events based on water head. The Sigmoid function is commonly used as an activation function in neural networks. The function of the model is the same as the Sigmoid function, and its critical parameters correspond to the service head requirements of water facilities. By considering the interaction between human emotions and artificial systems, this study provides novel insights into improving the operational control and construction of water distribution systems.
Analysis of the Force Characteristics of Two Tandem Cylinders by Internal Waves over Slope Topography
Authors: Wang Yin , Xiong Xiahui , Zhang Chenhui , Wang Lingling , Wu Xiaobin , Wang Hua , Liu Zhi , Wang Chunling
Published: September 2023

Large-amplitude internal waves (IWs) with strong lateral shear forces can cause destructive effects on marine engineering structures. In this study, a large eddy simulation (LES) method was employed to simulate the generation and propagation of IWs in a three-dimensional numerical wave tank, and the pressure distribution, flow field characteristics, and force behaviors of two tandem cylinders under the coupling effect of the IWs and slope terrain were studied. The influence mechanism of the normalized value of center-to-center spacing (L) and the diameter of the cylinder (D), i.e., (L/D), on the strength of the vortex disturbance between cylinders was studied by comparing the simulation results of two tandem cylinders with those of a single cylinder (SC) to further explore the mechanical response characteristics of the upstream cylinder (P1) and downstream cylinder (P2). The simulation results showed that the vortex interaction between cylinders is the critical factor that affects the forces acting on the cylinders. The strength of the vortex disturbance could be distinguished by the dimensionless critical center-to-center spacing between cylinders (Lc/D = 3.0). When L/D ≤ Lc/D, the vortex disturbance was severe, causing P1 and P2 to experience significant horizontal positive forces and negative forces, respectively. In the case of L/D > Lc/D, the forces acting on both cylinders gradually returned to those on a single cylinder.
Optimizing the Fishery and Solar Power Symbiosis Model for Sustainable Marine Resource Management: Evaluating the Effects of Solar Shading on the Growth and Water Quality of Litopenaeus vannamei and Chanos chanos
Authors: Chang Ping-Hung , Shih Chun-Han , Kao Wei-Chieh
Published: September 2023

The stable supply of renewable energy is imperative in many countries lacking domestic energy production. Thus, green energy will likely dominate future energy development trends. Taiwan’s thriving aquaculture industry presents an opportunity to integrate fisheries with electricity generation by transforming aquaculture into a symbiotic fishery–photovoltaic structure that provides stable, clean energy with potential economic benefits. This integrated model offers several advantages, such as temperature regulation and mobility, without needing to use land. However, several unexplored issues warrant further investigation. This study assessed the solar shading effects within the symbiotic fishery–photovoltaic model by comparing the growth of Litopenaeus vannamei and Chanos chanos under mixed cultivation conditions in an integrated system versus traditional fishponds. No substantial growth differences occurred for C. chanos between the systems. However, the body weight of L. vannamei was notably higher in traditional ponds versus the integrated system. Beyond evaluating the species’ growth, the aquatic environments were compared between the systems. The integrated model maintained a higher dissolved oxygen content and had lower ammonia and nitrite nitrogen levels than traditional co-cultivation. Moreover, this study provides valuable insights into the impacts of solar shading on the symbiotic fishery–photovoltaic model, shedding light on its potential benefits for nations lacking self-produced energy. Fishery–electricity symbiosis is a mutually beneficial integration of aquaculture and photovoltaics.
Towards Improved Flash Flood Forecasting over Dire Dawa, Ethiopia Using WRF-Hydro
Authors: Semie Addisu G. , Diro Gulilat T. , Demissie Teferi , Yigezu Yonas M. , Hailu Binyam
Published: September 2023

Flash floods are increasingly frequent worldwide. Recent flooding in eastern Ethiopia resulted in casualties, destruction of property and interruptions of service. National flash flood forecasts made today primarily consider precipitation, putting less emphasis on surface processes. Enhancing accurate flash flood forecasts by accounting for surface processes and hydrological models together with a deeper understanding of heavy precipitation mechanisms is of paramount importance. To this end, an uncoupled WRF-Hydro model was calibrated for eastern Ethiopia to simulate extreme floods. Sensitivity analysis for August 2006 showed that infiltration runoff, hydraulic soil conductivity and saturated volumetric soil moisture with parameter values of 0.1, 1.5 and 1.0 produced realistic streamflow distribution. Extreme floods in March 2005 and April 2007 were further studied. The results showed that WRF-Hydro replicates temporal and spatial patterns well. Analysis using observational/reanalysis data revealed associated physical processes. Precipitation during these events exceeded long-term climatology and spanned wider areas in eastern Ethiopia. These heavy precipitation events are associated with strong upper-level westerly jet streams and rainfall-conducive circulation anomalies at lower levels. Positive outcomes from WRF-Hydro suggest operational implementation for flood monitoring and early warning systems in forecasting centers.
Influence of Teleconnection Factors on Extreme Precipitation in Henan Province under Urbanization
Authors: Zhao Yuxiang , Tao Jie , Li He , Zuo Qiting , He Yinxing , Du Weibing
Published: September 2023

Urban extreme precipitation is a typical destructive hydrological event. However, the disaster-causing factors of urban extreme precipitation in Henan Province have rarely been discussed. In this study, daily precipitation data of 11 stations covering a disaster-affected area in “21.7” rainstorm event from 1951 to 2021 and hundreds of climatic indexes set were selected. First, the Granger causality test was adopted to identify the dominant teleconnection factors of extreme precipitation. Then, the effects of teleconnection factors on extreme precipitation in four design frequencies of 10%, 1%, 0.1%, and 0.001% in typical cities of Henan Province were analyzed by using regression and frequency analysis. Finally, the future variation was predicted based on CMIP6. The results show that: (1) The West Pacific 850 mb Trade Wind Index, Antarctic oscillation index, and other factors exert common influence on disaster-affected cities. (2) Teleconnection factors are the dominant force of urban extreme precipitation in most cities (50.3–99.8%), and area of built-up districts, length of roads, area of roads, and botanical garden areas are the key urbanization indicators affecting extreme precipitation. (3) In the future scenarios, the duration and intensity characteristics of urban extreme precipitation will increase, and the growth rate will increase monotonically with the recurrence period.
Accounting for the results of intellectual activity: a service invention
Authors:   Federal State Educational Institution of Higher Education “Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation”, Moscow, Russia, Sotnikova Lyudmila Viktorovna
Published: September 2023

In 2024, reporting organizations will begin to apply FSB 14/2022 “Intangible Assets” without fail. In 2023, this standard can be applied voluntarily ahead of schedule. Intangible assets include, in particular, the results of intellectual activity that can be obtained by employees of organizations in the course of their official activities. Such results of intellectual activity are, on the one hand, service inventions, on the other hand, internally created intangible assets in compliance with all recognition criteria. Stimulating the creativity of employees and the innovative development of Russian organizations, employees should be paid remuneration for service inventions, the amount of which, in the absence of an agreement between the employer and the employer, is determined by the rules established by the state. However, the practical application of the rules for the payment of remuneration to the authors of service inventions reveals contradictions between the interests of employees — authors and employers. The article deals with situations related to the payment of remuneration to the authors of service inventions. During the research, such methods as analysis and synthesis, comparison, grouping, analogy, logical and systematic approaches were used. The research results obtained in this article can be applied in the practical work of modern organizations, in the educational process of higher educational institutions and in the development and reform of regulatory documents on accounting, reporting and auditing. The results presented in this paper will also be useful to a wide range of readers interested in modern problems of accounting, reporting and auditing at the domestic and international level.
Balance sheet: development of the methodology for its formation in the system of Russian accounting standards
Authors:   Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education “Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod”, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, Druzhilovskaya T.Y.
Published: September 2023

This article is devoted to the study of methodological approaches to the formation of the balance sheet — the most important reporting form that characterizes the financial position of organizations. The program for the development of federal accounting standards includes the adoption of a standard dedicated to financial statements, which, among other things, will contain requirements for the formation of a balance sheet. At present, the draft FSBU 4/2023 “Accounting (financial) reporting” has been developed and published for discussion. The article examines the methodological approaches to the preparation of the balance sheet proposed in this project. The regulations proposed in the draft FSBU 4/2023 are compared with the methodological approaches to the formation of the balance sheet in the current PBU 4/99 “Accounting statements of an organization” and the order of the Ministry of Finance of Russia No. 66n dated July 2, 2010 “On the forms of financial statements of organizations”. Both expedient and debatable aspects of methodological approaches to the formation of the balance sheet in the draft FSBU 4/2023 “Accounting (financial) reporting” are identified. Substantiated proposals for solving debatable methodological aspects.