bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Ground Subsidence Zone in an Urban Area Using Geophysical Methods
Authors: De Giorgi Lara , Barbolla Dora Francesca , Torre Chiara , Settembrini Stefano , Leucci Giovanni
Published: June 2024

An important geological risk to which many towns in Puglia are exposed is sinking cavities in urban areas. For urban centers, studying, mapping, providing geological and speleological descriptions, classifying, and cataloging the forms and types of cavities is essential because cavities are linked to past local anthropic and natural processes at different sites. These circumstances could lead to the enhancement of existing underground cavities in urban areas through conservation and continuous monitoring. Unfortunately, in many cases, these underground cavities have been used as landfills and subsequently abandoned. In late March 2007, one of these cavities collapsed inside Gallipoli’s inhabited center, causing damage to the structures but fortunately not human lives. In the area surrounding the collapsed cavity, a series of geophysical investigations were undertaken using ground penetrating radar in an attempt to delimit the area of collapse and develop possible interventions for restoration. In the same area, these measures were repeated 16 years later in December 2022 due to another collapse. The comparison between data acquired in these two periods shows that there were no strong changes apart from an increased presence of subsoil moisture in 2022.
Yolov8n-FADS: A Study for Enhancing Miners’ Helmet Detection Accuracy in Complex Underground Environments
Authors: Fu Zhibo , Ling Jierui , Yuan Xinpeng , Li Hao , Li Hongjuan , Li Yuanfei
Published: June 2024

A new algorithm, Yolov8n-FADS, has been proposed with the aim of improving the accuracy of miners’ helmet detection algorithms in complex underground environments. By replacing the head part with Attentional Sequence Fusion (ASF) and introducing the P2 detection layer, the ASF-P2 structure is able to comprehensively extract the global and local feature information of the image, and the improvement in the backbone part is able to capture the spatially sparsely distributed features more efficiently, which improves the model’s ability to perceive complex patterns. The improved detection head, SEAMHead by the SEAM module, can handle occlusion more effectively. The Focal Loss module can improve the model’s ability to detect rare target categories by adjusting the weights of positive and negative samples. This study shows that compared with the original model, the improved model has 29% memory compression, a 36.7% reduction in the amount of parameters, and a 4.9% improvement in the detection accuracy, which can effectively improve the detection accuracy of underground helmet wearers, reduce the workload of underground video surveillance personnel, and improve the monitoring efficiency.
Proposed Changes to the Inspection Strategy for Fire Alarm Systems: Empirical Analysis of Weak Points and Technical Influencing Factors
Authors: Veit Stefan Siegfried , Steiner František
Published: June 2024

Fire alarm systems are an important part of the safety concept in complex buildings. For this reason, there are high availability requirements for the systems, which must be sustained by a maintenance concept. A shortage of skilled workers and rising costs in the construction and operation of buildings are pushing these concepts ever further. This study deals with proposed changes to the maintenance strategies to achieve cost and time savings in addition to an improvement in quality. As a first part of the work, the current state of research on developments in fire alarm systems and their maintenance and inspection concepts is analyzed within a literature review. The results serve as a basis for further research, which is based on a qualitative content analysis of expert interviews and standardized surveys to identify the weaknesses in current inspection strategies and future factors influencing the methods and technology of inspections through technical innovations. As a data basis for this study, expert interviews were conducted with experts from manufacturers, industry associations, and standards bodies in order to determine the possible influencing factors. To determine their relevance for the inspection, more than 40 experts were surveyed about testing the systems. The presented results show that new technical risks, such as cyber threats and networked plant structures, are insufficiently covered by current inspection strategies. Furthermore, inspection steps can be substituted by new technologies. The most important influencing factors that can be identified here are automatic self-test functions of components and remote inspection techniques of the systems. Finally, the results are discussed within the framework of a PESTEL analysis. In conclusion, it can be stated that the integration of identified impacts in future inspection strategies brings time and efficiency benefits in the operation of systems.
Influence of Drying and Storage Conditions on the Volatile Organic Compounds Profile of Spirulina Platensis
Authors: Ughetti Alberto , D’Eusanio Veronica , Strani Lorenzo , Russo Andrea Luca , Roncaglia Fabrizio
Published: June 2024

Spirulina platensis (SP) has gained popularity over the last few years, owing to its remarkable nutritional properties and high potential across various industrial sectors. In this study, we analyzed the volatile profile of eight SP samples from the same strain subjected to different drying (oven-drying, air-drying, and spray-drying) and storing conditions (“freshly prepared” and after 12 months of storage) using HS-SPME-GC-MS. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used as a multivariate technique to discern similarities and differences among the samples. The main aim was to assess the impact of the drying technique on the aroma profile and storage life of SP samples. Air-drying leads to the less pronounced formation of by-products related to heat treatment, such as Maillard and Strecker degradation compounds, but promotes oxidative and fermentative phenomena, with the formation of organic acids and esters, especially during storage. Thermal treatment, essential for limiting degradation and fermentation during storage and extending shelf life, alters the aroma profile through the formation of volatile compounds, such as Strecker aldehydes and linear aldehydes, from amino acid and lipid degradation. High temperatures in spray-drying favor the formation of pyrazines. The findings underscore the trade-offs inherent in choosing an appropriate drying method, thereby informing decision-making processes in industrial settings aimed at optimizing both product quality and efficiency.
An Optimal Design through a Compound Criterion for Integrating Extra Preference Information in a Choice Experiment: A Case Study on Moka Ground Coffee
Authors: Berni Rossella , Nikiforova Nedka Dechkova , Pinelli Patrizia
Published: June 2024

In this manuscript, we propose an innovative approach to studying consumers’ preferences for coffee, which integrates a choice experiment with consumer sensory tests and chemical analyses (caffeine contents obtained through a High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method). The same choice experiment is administered on two consecutive occasions, i.e., before and after the guided tasting session, to analyze the role of tasting and awareness about coffee composition in the consumers’ preferences. To this end, a Bayesian optimal design, based on a compound design criterion, is applied in order to build the choice experiment; the compound criterion allows for addressing two main issues related to the efficient estimation of the attributes and the evaluation of the sensorial part, e.g., the HPLC effects and the scores obtained through the consumer sensory test. All these elements, e.g., the attributes involved in the choice experiment, the scores obtained for each coffee through the sensory tests, and the HPLC quantitative evaluation of caffeine, are analyzed through suitable Random Utility Models. The initial results are promising, confirming the validity of the proposed approach.
Continuous Power Management of Decentralized DC Microgrid Based on Transitional Operation Modes under System Uncertainty and Sensor Failure
Authors: Jo Seong-Bae , Tran Dat Thanh , Jabbar Muhammad Alif Miraj , Kim Myungbok , Kim Kyeong-Hwa
Published: June 2024

Continuous power management for a decentralized DC microgrid (DCMG) is proposed in this study to achieve power balance and voltage regulation even under system uncertainty and voltage sensor failure. The DCMG system achieves continuous power management through only the primary controller to reduce the computational burden of each power agent. To enhance the reliability and resilience of the DCMG system under DC bus voltage (DCV) sensor failure, a DCV sensor fault detection algorithm is suggested. In this algorithm, DCV sensor failure is detected by comparing the measured DCV with the estimated DCV. If power agents identify the failure of the DCV sensor, it changes the operation properly according to the proposed control mode decision algorithm to guarantee the stability of the DCMG system. When uncertain conditions like sudden grid disconnection, DCV sensor failure, electricity price change, power variation in distributed generations, and critical battery status occur, the DCMG system is changed to transitional operation modes. These transitional operation modes are employed to transmit the power agent information to other agents without digital communication links (DCLs) and to accomplish power sharing even under such uncertain conditions. In the transitional operation modes of the DCMG system, the DCV levels are temporarily shifted to an appropriate level, enabling each power agent to detect the uncertainty conditions, and subsequently to determine its operation modes based on the DCV levels. The reliability and effectiveness of the proposed control strategy are confirmed via various simulation and experimental tests under different operating conditions.
The Effects of Global Market Changes on Automotive Manufacturing and Embedded Software
Authors: Dakić Pavle , Stupavský Igor , Todorović Vladimir
Published: June 2024

The procedures used to create modern cars require extensive thought in various relevant scientific domains. Arguably, the most challenging obstacle facing the automobile sector is the management of production facilities by integrating software production lines, continuous integration, and continuous delivery/continuous deployment (CI/CD). All this is determined by market demands, the engine of a vehicle, and the complexity of assembling the entire car and installing its corresponding embedded software. As a result, concerns about various types of global change have grown, as has the lack of the ability to use fossil fuels, creating a substantial impact on the purchase and sale of modern automobiles. The research foundation is reflected in covering strategies for the deployment and administration of software, as well as opportunities for business improvement in particular production processes. This article strives to provide a summary of a scientific investigation of original equipment manufacturers, market segmentation, and the effects of global market changes on automotive manufacturing by examining the correlation between certain changes in the purchase of a specific brand and the powertrain of a vehicle. The research examines numerous datasets from the United States of America and Washington State, based on which we estimate possible future changes in the automotive industry’s sales.
The Effect of ESG Performance on Bank Liquidity Risk
Authors: Liu Jiaze , Xie Jifei
Published: June 2024

In recent years, investors have increasingly focused on the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance of businesses, driven by the rising importance of social and environmental challenges. This trend highlights the critical role of ESG factors in the financial sector. This study leverages stakeholder theory, risk management theory, and ESG investment theory, utilising financial data and ESG scores from Chinese listed banks to comprehensively analyse ESG elements and examine their impact on the liquidity risk of commercial banks. The results show that: (1) Enhanced ESG performance can mitigate liquidity risk in commercial banks by reducing the proportion of non-performing loans and improving overall financial performance. (2) By standardising and implementing sustainable business practices, ESG elements can improve commercial banks’ liquidity management levels and lessen the incidence and effects of liquidity risk. As a result, it is critical to lower banks’ liquidity risk and support the long-term growth of commercial banks from five angles: information disclosure, differentiated reform, digital transformation, education and training, and international cooperation.
The Role of ESG Ratings in Shaping Chinese Investors’ Decision-Making Behavior: An Analysis from the Fund Signaling Perspective
Authors: Qu Wenzhou , Su Zekai
Published: June 2024

In order to promote the healthy development of China’s fund market and alleviate the phenomenon of “funds make money, investors don’t”, this paper explores the impact and economic consequences of fund signals on investors’ decisions in China. An analysis of quarterly Chinese fund data from January 2010 to December 2022 finds that Chinese investors tend to rely on strong signals and flow their money to highly rated or high-yielding funds. Sustainability is an integral part of ESG ratings, which have gradually become a focal point in the international investment market, but the lack of a platform to display ESG ratings in China has prevented investors from effectively utilizing these ratings in their investment decisions. The study also found that individual investors prefer short- and medium-term returns, while both institutional and individual investors chase ratings, with individual investors relying more on these signals. In addition, strong signals are not effective in predicting fund performance returns, while ESG ratings show significant positive predictive effects, validating the irrational preference of Chinese investors to blindly follow strong signals.
The Present and Future of the Use Phase of Social Housing in Tucumán, Argentina: An LCA Perspective
Authors: Saez Vanesa Celina , Quintana-Gallardo Alberto , Mendiguchía-Fontes Fernando Aitor , Garzón Beatriz Silvia , Guillén-Guillamón Ignacio
Published: June 2024

This research focuses on assessing the environmental impact of heating and cooling systems in public housing projects, built between 2000 and 2020, in Tucuman, Argentina. It considers current and projected climate change scenarios. The study compares existing conditions with improvements suggested by IRAM 11603 for a thermo-energetic transition. Anticipating future energy consumption changes is vital for proposing sustainable retrofitting options to enhance affordability and energy efficiency, while ensuring occupants’ thermal comfort. A public housing prototype in Tucumán serves as the case study. The methodology combines energy simulation and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to analyze current and future energy demands. The results show climate change’s potential impact on housing thermal behavior and the necessity for improvements. In the base case, cooling demand exceeds 11 kWh/m2·year, while heating demand decreases by approximately 4 kWh/m2·year. Rehabilitation could reduce cooling demand by 57% and heating demand by 32.5%, considering future climate scenarios. Active architectural strategies are proposed for enhancing thermal performance and reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. This study underscores the importance of analyzing future scenarios and implementing strategies for the thermo-energetic transition of existing social housing.
AI Applications to Enhance Resilience in Power Systems and Microgrids—A Review
Authors: Zahraoui Younes , Korõtko Tarmo , Rosin Argo , Mekhilef Saad , Seyedmahmoudian Mehdi , Stojcevski Alex , Alhamrouni Ibrahim
Published: June 2024

This paper presents an in-depth exploration of the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing the resilience of microgrids. It begins with an overview of the impact of natural events on power systems and provides data and insights related to power outages and blackouts caused by natural events in Estonia, setting the context for the need for resilient power systems. Then, the paper delves into the concept of resilience and the role of microgrids in maintaining power stability. The paper reviews various AI techniques and methods, and their application in power systems and microgrids. It further investigates how AI can be leveraged to improve the resilience of microgrids, particularly during different phases of an event occurrence time (pre-event, during event, and post-event). A comparative analysis of the performance of various AI models is presented, highlighting their ability to maintain stability and ensure a reliable power supply. This comprehensive review contributes significantly to the existing body of knowledge and sets the stage for future research in this field. The paper concludes with a discussion of future work and directions, emphasizing the potential of AI in revolutionizing power system monitoring and control.
A Fault Diagnosis Method for Analog Circuits Based on Improved TQWT and Inception Model
Authors: Yuan Xinjia , Yang Siting , Wang Wenmin , Sheng Yunlong , Zhuang Xuye , Yin Jiancheng
Published: June 2024

A soft fault in an analog circuit is a symptom where the parameter range of a component exists symmetrically to the left and right of its nominal value and exceeds a specific range. The proposed method uses the Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) optimized tunable Q-factor wavelet transform (TQWT) algorithm for feature refinement, the Inception model for feature extraction, and an SVM for fault diagnosis. First, the Q-factor is optimized to make it more compatible with the signal. Second, the signal is decomposed, and a single-branch reconstruction is performed using the TQWT to extract features adequately. Then, fault feature extraction is conducted using the Inception model to obtain multiscale features. Finally, a Support Vector Machine (SVM) is used to complete the entire fault diagnosis process. The proposed method is comprehensively evaluated using the Sallen–Key bandpass filter circuit and the four-op-amp biquad high-pass filter circuit widely used in electronic systems. The experimental results prove that the proposed method outperforms the existing methods in terms of diagnosis accuracy and reliability.
Numerical Solution of the Linear Fractional Delay Differential Equation Using Gauss–Hermite Quadrature
Authors: Aljawi Salma , Aljohani Sarah , Kamran  , Ahmed Asma , Mlaiki Nabil
Published: June 2024

Fractional order differential equations often possess inherent symmetries that play a crucial role in governing their dynamics in a variety of scientific fields. In this work, we consider numerical solutions for fractional-order linear delay differential equations. The numerical solution is obtained via the Laplace transform technique. The quadrature approximation of the Bromwich integral provides the foundation for several commonly employed strategies for inverting the Laplace transform. The key factor for quadrature approximation is the contour deformation, and numerous contours have been proposed. However, the highly convergent trapezoidal rule has always been the most common quadrature rule. In this work, the Gauss–Hermite quadrature rule is used as a substitute for the trapezoidal rule. Plotting figures of absolute error and comparing results to other methods from the literature illustrate how effectively the suggested approach works. Functional analysis was used to examine the existence of the solution and the Ulam–Hyers (UH) stability of the considered equation.
Characterization of Wildland Firefighters’ Exposure to Coarse, Fine, and Ultrafine Particles; Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons; and Metal(loid)s, and Estimation of Associated Health Risks
Authors: Teixeira Joana , Sousa Gabriel , Azevedo Rui , Almeida Agostinho , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Wang Xianyu , Santos-Silva Alice , Rodrigues Francisca , Oliveira Marta
Published: June 2024

Firefighters’ occupational activity causes cancer, and the characterization of exposure during firefighting activities remains limited. This work characterizes, for the first time, firefighters’ exposure to (coarse/fine/ultrafine) particulate matter (PM) bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and metal(loid)s during prescribed fires, Fire 1 and Fire 2 (210 min). An impactor collected 14 PM fractions, the PM levels were determined by gravimetry, and the PM-bound PAHs and metal(loid)s were determined by chromatographic and spectroscopic methodologies, respectively. Firefighters were exposed to a total PM level of 1408.3 and 342.5 µg/m3 in Fire 1 and Fire 2, respectively; fine/ultrafine PM represented more than 90% of total PM. Total PM-bound PAHs (3260.2 ng/m3 in Fire 1; 412.1 ng/m3 in Fire 2) and metal(loid)s (660.8 ng/m3 versus 262.2 ng/m3), distributed between fine/ultrafine PM, contained 4.57–24.5% and 11.7–12.6% of (possible/probable) carcinogenic PAHs and metal(loid)s, respectively. Firefighters’ exposure to PM, PAHs, and metal(loid)s were below available occupational limits. The estimated carcinogenic risks associated with the inhalation of PM-bound PAHs (3.78 × 10−9 − 1.74 × 10−6) and metal(loid)s (1.50 × 10−2 − 2.37 × 10−2) were, respectively, below and 150–237 times higher than the acceptable risk level defined by the USEPA during 210 min of firefighting activity and assuming a 40-year career as a firefighter. Additional studies need to (1) explore exposure to (coarse/fine/ultrafine) PM, (2) assess health risks, (3) identify intervention needs, and (4) support regulatory agencies recommending mitigation procedures to reduce the impact of fire effluents on firefighters.
Gravitational Wormholes
Authors: Lu Mengqi , Yang Jiayue , Mann Robert B.
Published: June 2024

Spacetime wormholes are evidently an essential component of the construction of a time machine. Within the context of general relativity, such objects require, for their formation, exotic matter—matter that violates at least one of the standard energy conditions. Here, we explore the possibility that higher-curvature gravity theories might permit the construction of a wormhole without any matter at all. In particular, we consider the simplest form of a generalized quasi topological theory in four spacetime dimensions, known as Einsteinian Cubic Gravity. This theory has a number of promising features that make it an interesting phenomenological competitor to general relativity, including having non-hairy generalizations of the Schwarzschild black hole and linearized equations of second order around maximally symmetric backgrounds. By matching series solutions near the horizon and at large distances, we find evidence that strong asymptotically AdS wormhole solutions can be constructed, with strong curvature effects ensuring that the wormhole throat can exist.
Influenza Vaccine Hesitancy among Cancer Survivors in China: A Multicenter Survey
Authors: Guo Xin , Han Qi , Wang Yuqin , Zhang Rui , Huang Yuenan , Guo Botang
Published: June 2024

Background: Cancer survivors are at higher risk of developing severe complications from influenza due to their compromised immune systems. Despite their increased vulnerability to influenza and the availability of vaccines, vaccine hesitancy among cancer survivors remains a significant public health concern in China. Methods: A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted among cancer survivors in China from January to December 2023. A total of 500 participants were recruited from the oncology departments of five tertiary hospitals. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, cancer-related information, medical history, lifestyle factors, and influenza vaccine hesitancy. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with influenza vaccine hesitancy. Results: The response rate was 97.0% (485/500). Among all participants, 204 (42.06%) reported vaccine hesitancy. The results of multiple logistic regression showed that the longer the end of anti-cancer treatment, without a history of adverse vaccine reactions, and the level of family support played a protective role in vaccine hesitancy. Current rehabilitation status, frequent colds, not being informed by doctors about vaccination, exercising, lack of community vaccination education programs, and concerns about vaccine safety were risk factors that increase vaccine hesitancy. Conclusions: A high proportion of cancer survivors in our study reported influenza vaccine hesitancy. Addressing concerns about vaccine safety, improving access to vaccination services, and enhancing doctor–patient communication are crucial for increasing influenza vaccine uptake in this vulnerable population.
The PCV3 Cap Virus-like Particle Vaccine with the Chimeric PCV2-Neutralizing Epitope Gene Is Effective in Mice
Authors: Wu Xingchen , Wang Qikai , Lu Wang , Wang Ying , Han Zehao , Liang Libin , Gao Shimin , Ma Haili , Luo Xiaomao
Published: June 2024

Porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) infection can cause symptoms similar to those of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) infection, and coinfections with both PCV2 and PCV3 are observed in the swine industry. Consequently, developing chimeric vaccines is essential to prevent and control porcine circovirus infections. In this study, we used both E. coli and mammalian expression systems to express PCV3 Cap (Cap3) and a chimeric gene containing the PCV2-neutralizing epitope within the PCV3 Cap (Cap3-Cap2E), which were assembled into virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines. We found that Cap3 lacking nuclear localization signal (NLS) could not form VLPs, while Cap3 with a His-tag successfully assembled into VLPs. Additionally, the chimeric of PCV2-neutralizing epitopes did not interfere with the assembly process of VLPs. Various immunization approaches revealed that pCap3-Cap2E VLP vaccines were capable of activating high PCV3 Cap-specific antibody levels and effectively neutralizing both PCV3 and PCV2. Furthermore, pCap3-Cap2E VLPs demonstrated a potent ability to activate cellular immunity, protecting against PCV3 infection and preventing lung damage in mice. In conclusion, this study successfully developed a PCV3 Cap VLP vaccine incorporating chimeric PCV2-neutralizing epitope genes, providing new perspectives for PCV3 vaccine development.
A Framework to Evaluate Groundwater Quality and the Relationship between Rock Weathering and Groundwater Hydrogeochemistry in the Tropical Zone: A Case Study of Coastal Aquifer Arroyo Grande, in the Caribbean Region of Colombia
Authors: Arroyo-Figueroa Carlos , Chalá Dayana Carolina , Gutiérrez-Ribon Guillermo , Quiñones-Bolaños Edgar
Published: June 2024

Hydrochemical analysis is crucial for understanding soil and water composition dynamics in coastal aquifers. This study presents a novel framework for the comprehensive assessment of groundwater quality, integrating multivariate analysis and hydrochemical techniques. It comprises seven stages aimed at characterizing physicochemical properties, identifying water constituents, elucidating dominant mechanisms in water composition, evaluating ion exchange processes, analyzing spatial distribution of components, identifying impacting processes, and assessing drinking water quality. The framework was applied to the coastal unconfined Arroyo Grande aquifer in Cartagena, Colombia. Fifteen points were sampled, assessing physicochemical parameters such as total hardness, alkalinity, pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, anions, cations, among others. Findings reveal the presence of dominant anions including bicarbonate, chloride, and sulfate, with relevant variations observed between the dry and wet season, with manganese and iron surpassing WHO drinking water standards. The prevalence of these constituents has been attributed to mineral dissolution, ion exchange, salinization due to seawater intrusion, and anthropogenic contamination. Over 50% of samples in both seasons fail to meet freshwater drinking standards due to elevated dissolved mineral concentrations in groundwater. These findings provide insights for sustainable management and mitigation strategies, and the systematic approach enables researchers to identify key factors influencing water composition.
A Comparative Study of Carbon Emissions from Industrial and Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plants under the Background of Carbon Neutralization
Authors: Liu Xiaoping , Li Zhanbin , Li Peng , Xu Weiqing , Liu Tong , Cheng Shengdong , Li Jiajia , Miao Ziyao , Zhang Lin , Zheng Xing
Published: June 2024

This paper studied the characteristics of the carbon emission of an industrial wastewater treatment plant (IWWTP) and a domestic WWTP (DWWTP) located in a high-tech industrial park of Shaanxi Province, China. The results showed that the total carbon emissions of the IWWTP and DWWTP were 10.13 kg/t and 1.84 kg/t in 2020, respectively. Indirect carbon emissions play a dominant role in the total carbon emission of the IWWTP, which accounts for about 97.6% of the total amount. The direct carbon emissions of greenhouse gases (e.g., CH4, N2O) account for about 62% of the total carbon emissions in the DWWTP, followed by the indirect carbon emissions generated by electricity consumption (31.06%) and chemical consumption (6.94%). Additionally, the centralized recycling and re-utilization of the wastewater could achieve 1.06 kg/t and 1.16 kg/t of carbon emission reduction in the IWWTP and DWWTP, respectively, while the carbon emissions of the DWWTP are inversely proportional to the treatment capacity. Therefore, it is of great value to collect and utilize intensively the recycled water to achieve the goal of regional carbon emission reduction and carbon neutralization of WWTPs in industrial parks.
Absolutheitsstreben und Vernichtungsdrang oder die Kunst des Scheiterns. Reflexionen zum Werk von Thomas Bernhard
Authors: Tunner Erika
Published: June 2024

Absolutheitsstreben und Vernichtüngsdrang oder die Kunst des Scheiterns. Reflexionen zum Werk von Thomas Bernhard

Eines der Hauptthemen im Werk des österreichischen Schriftstellers Thomas Bernhard ist das Streben nach Perfektion und der damit in engem Zusammenhang stehende Drang nach Vernichtung, womit vorwiegend Bernhards Künstlergestalten belastet sind. Diese tendieren einerseits zur Wissenschaft, andererseits zum Virtuosentum. Nach einer Kennzeichnung der Zentralfiguren in den beiden Theaterstücken Die Macht der Gewohnheit und Der Ignorant und der Wahnsinnige, bringt die Studie eine Analyse von Bernhards letztem Prosawerk, Die Korrektur, das in enger Verbindung zu Bernhards Erstling, Frost, und zu dem darauf folgenden Roman Das Kalkwerk betrachtet wird. Die Untersuchung von Ursache, Zweck und Art der Verwirklichung des Absolutheitsstrebens bzw. des Vernichtungsdranges in Die Korrektur zeigt, wie uns Bernhard, mit scheinbar verbissenem Pessimismus, aber auch mit Ironie und Melancholie, eine «Kunst des Scheiterns» vor Augen führt.
Julius Langbehn : un réactionnaire à la mode en 1890
Authors: Châtellier Hildegard
Published: June 2024

Julius Langbehn oder Auch ein Reaktionär kann «modern» sein.

Zwar gibt sich J. Langbehn (1851-1907) als entschiedener Gegner der Moderne : in Rembrandt als Erzieher (1890) werden nicht nur die moderne Kunst und Wissenschaft sondern auch Demokratie und städtische Industriegesellschaft als «Unnatur» angeprangert. Aber der konservative Appell zu Rückbesinnung auf die ewig wahre «Natur» ist nur romantische Fassade. Dahinter steckt ein politisches und soziales Ideal, das insofern «modern» ist, als es die zeittypische Antwort des Reaktionärs auf aktuelle Probleme ist. Im Plädoyer für die Agrargesellschaft als Ausdruck der Rückkehr zur «Scholle», in einem bipolaren Gesellschaftsmodell, das jedoch den Gegensatz zwischen Herrschenden und Beherrschten total verschleiert, in der Suche nach der charismatischen Führergestalt einerseits, im Nationalismus und Imperialismus andererseits kündigen sich bei ihm Tendenzen an, die ab 1914 und mehr noch ab 1933 den ideologischen Hintergrund für die politische Praxis bilden.
Urine Osmolality Is a Potential Marker of Longer-Term Efficacy of Tolvaptan in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: A Post Hoc Analysis
Authors: Ivaturi Vijay , Gobburu Joga , Leslie Bruce , Wang Xiaofeng , Jadhav Pravin
Published: June 2024

Key Points

Post hoc analyses of the TEMPO 3:4 trial suggest that short-term reductions in urine osmolality with tolvaptan predict effects on total kidney volume and eGFR.

Change in urine osmolality has potential as a biomarker of treatment response and may facilitate trial design and clinical decision making.

Background

Total kidney volume (TKV) and eGFR are measures of progression and treatment response in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, but utility is limited by the long follow-up required for change assessment. In an analysis of data from the 3-year TEMPO 3:4 trial, we evaluated relationships among a short-term indicator of drug activity (change in urine osmolality [Uosm]) and longer-term outcomes to evaluate Uosm as a potential marker of efficacy.

Methods

Linear regression modeling and single-point analyses assessed relationships among change in Uosm to week 3, change in TKV to month 12, and change in eGFR to month 36 in participants treated with tolvaptan (n=961) or placebo (n=483). Multivariate models evaluated the proportion of the tolvaptan treatment effect on eGFR attributable to change in Uosm.

Results

Change in TKV to month 12 and Uosm to week 3 each correlated with change in eGFR to month 36, regardless of treatment assignment. A greater decrease in Uosm from baseline to week 3 was indicative of a slower decrease in eGFR to month 36 (slope estimate of −0.01, P < 0.00001). The effect of tolvaptan on Uosm accounted for 68.8% of the treatment effect on change in eGFR to month 36. Simulations of TEMPO 3:4 under the null hypothesis (i.e., replacement of all values for change in Uosm from baseline to week 3 with values from the placebo arm only) yielded a type 1 error rate indicating an acceptable risk of falsely concluding treatment efficacy on the basis of change in Uosm as a trial end point.

Conclusions

Change in Uosm is a potential biomarker for long-term treatment outcome with tolvaptan and might expedite clinical trials and treatment decision making for drugs with similar mechanisms of action.
Série histórica da sífilis gestacional e congênita de um município do sul do Brasil dos anos de 2012 a 2021
Authors: Matias Layla Alba de , Valle Ana Claudia Cadore , Nascimento Deisy da Silva Fernandes
Published: June 2024

Introdução: A sífilis gestacional (SG) e congênita (SC) são doenças de notificação compulsória e é uma causa importante de morbimortalidade perinatal, e está em ascensão. O presente estudo teve por objetivo descrever a situação da sífilis em um município da região da Amurel, localizada no Sul do Brasil. Métodos: Este estudo retrospectivo analítico ecológico, utilizou dados de acesso público, dentre eles o Sistema de Informações de Agravos de Notificação, disponíveis no DATASUS, bem como no Sistema de Informação sobre Nascidos Vivos. Resultados: Foram registrados 160 casos SG e 68 casos de SC em menores de um ano em um total de 13.365 nascidos vivos, entres os anos de 2012 a 2021.Observou-se incremento médio da SC de 1,479 e de 7,178 nos registros de SG. O perfil sociodemográfico foi de gestantes na faixa etária de 15 a 39 anos, nível de escolaridade baixo e raça/cor branca. O estágio da sífilis foi primário, a maioria realizou pré-natal e o tratamento. Na SC, o parceiro não realizou o tratamento, na maioria dos casos. Conclusão: As taxas de incidências locais estão acima das metas governamentais, tornando necessário melhorias, em consonância com o MS, que recomenda a implantação de um comitê específico inserido no fluxo dos serviços de saúde pública local, haja vista a importância da educação continuada das equipes de saúde e da população em foco, dentre outras estratégias eficazes de prevenção e controle como uma medida para reduzir o impacto da doença na saúde da população.
Bridging the Gap: A Computer Science Pre‑MOOC for First Semester Students
Authors: Bernadette Spieler  , Maria Grandl  , Martin Ebner  , Wolfgang Slany
Published: June 2024

Knowledge in Computer Science (CS) is essential, and companies have increased their demands for CS professionals. Despite this, many jobs remain vacant. Furthermore, computational thinking (CT) skills are required in all contexts of problem solving. A further serious problem arises from the gender disparity in technology related ﬁelds. Even if tech companies want to hire women in technology, the number of women who enter these fields is remarkably low. In high schools with no technical focus, most teenagers acquire only low‑level skills in CS. The consequences are misleading preconceptions about the fundamental ideas of CS and stereotype‑based expectations. Consequently, many teenagers exclude computing from their career path. In this paper, two promising concepts to overcome these challenges are presented. In 2018, a voluntary gamified lecture “Design your own app”, held at the University of Graz for students of all degree programs, was introduced. The course attracted over 200 students and received positive evaluations. This led to the second concept. In January 2019, a MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) with the title “Get FIT in Computer Science” was designed and launched in August 2019 on the platform iMooX.at with the goal to provide a basic introduction to different concepts of CS, including programming and the application of game design strategies. The MOOC was accompanied by an offline lecture, following the principles of flipped classroom and inverse blended learning. For evaluation purposes, we collected data at three stages: 1) during the MOOC, 2) during the offline lecture, and 3) two months after the lecture. The results showed that the MOOC framework was a promising approach to support and motivate at least a certain group of first‑semester students, especially those who had no prior knowledge in CS.
CONSUMER PURCHASE BEHAVIOR TOWARDS ORGANIC POTATO IN VIENTIANE CAPITAL, LAO PDR
Authors: Inthavixay Chanphet , Sengsouriya Phoudthavong , Sibounavong Phonesavard
Published: June 2024

The paper aims to analyze consumer purchase behavior towards organic potatoes in Vientiane Capital, Laos, by estimating the consumer's valuation of organic potatoes relative to conventional potatoes and determining the information effect on an organic potato. This study used the questionnaire to conduct face-to-face interviews in four organic markets in Vientiane Capital; the questionnaire was distributed to 300 samples. The experiment was divided into three treatments: (1) no information (did not provide any information), (2) positive information (the positive impacts of conducting organic agriculture), and (3) negative information (the negative impacts of not conducting organic agriculture). The study findings indicate that shoppers are interested in purchasing a total average price of a 32 percent premium of potatoes over regular potatoes. The mean willingness to pay for organic potatoes through the information treatments shows that the no information treatment is the highest, followed by positive and negative information with the lowest. Besides, the insignificant effect of positive and negative information on purchasing organic vegetables significantly reduces the willingness to pay. It also shows that age, gender, education, income, and household size insignificantly influence willingness to pay. However, the study found that consumers’ preferences for organic are relative to conventional potatoes, but their preferences did not change their value for organic potatoes, even though they were provided positive information. This study suggests that the Lao government should continue to promote organic products and marketing strategies to the consumers in terms of the policy.
AWARENESS ON GENDER VIOLENCE AT ETHNIC MINORITY AREAS: A CASE STUDY IN BUON HO TOWN, DAK LAK PROVINCE, VIETNAM
Authors: Nguyen Chung Van , Le Nam Van , Ha Dung Hoang , Nguyen Dung Tien
Published: June 2024

The problems of gender violence is still existing in ethnic minority communities when traditional point of view and prejudice are available. This study aims to find out awareness of male and female of the E De ethnic minority on gender violence in Buon Ho town, Dak Lak province, Vietnam. The study was conducted based on collecting primary information from structured interviews with 135 ethnic minority households and in-depth interviews with 06 key informants in the community, as well as collecting related secondary information. The research findings indicated that although awareness on gender violence has significantly improved in both male and female, there is still a part of local people who do not understand correctly. This group has clear prejudice about the different role and status between male and female in the family. The point of view that females must accept disadvantage or accept the fate of being the weak is still going on.
A NOVEL SYSTEM FOR PREDICTING THE DAMAGE OF RICE DISEASES IN AN GIANG PROVINCE, VIETNAM
Authors: Doan Thanh-Nghi , Huynh Phuoc-Hai
Published: June 2024

Many researchers have recently considered information technology applications to support smart agriculture. Numerous solutions and information technology systems have been implemented to benefit farmers, such as an e-commerce website for exchanging agricultural products, an agricultural information system, a livestock information management system, and an agricultural environment monitoring system. This paper presents a novel system that combines artificial back-propagation neural networks with genetic algorithms for predicting the damage of rice diseases in An Giang province. The system predicts rice disease damage in the coming weeks in 11 districts in An Giang based on input parameters such as climate conditions and previous rice disease damage.  The approach was evaluated on a dataset collected by the An Giang Plant Protection Department over 22 years. The rice diseases forecasting system produced promising results and received positive feedback from forecast department specialists, with an RMSE of 19.31 on the test dataset (ha).
OPTIMIZATION OF FACTORS INFLUENCING ON THE QUALITY OF LUCUMA (Pouteria lucuma) JAM
Authors: Nguyen Phung Kim , Nguyen Hien Thi
Published: June 2024

This research aims to survey the factors in the process of quality of lucuma jam (Pouteria lucuma). The main contents included (i) Investigating the effects of added water (v/w) (60%, 80%, 100%, 120%, 140%); (ii) Optimizethe ratio of sugar (50%, 60%, 70%), acid citric (0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%) and pectin (0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5%). The results showed that by adding 100% water, the jam product achieved the highest sensory score and attractive color for L*, b* of 30.12 , and 30.96, respectively. The ratio of sugar (70%), citric acid (0.2%) and pectin (1.0%) in the supplementary mixture resulted in a total polyphenol of 21.53 mgGAE/L and 62.67oBx of the final product and gained the highest scores from the sensory panel, which evaluated the jam by perceptive color, flavor, taste , and texture.
PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS ON ENTERTAINING EDUCATIONAL CONTENT FOR LEARNERS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
Authors: Miaomiao Xu , Ariffin Abdul Mutalib , Hammuzamer Irwan Hamzah
Published: June 2024

This paper reports on an ongoing study regarding the needs of autism spectrum disorder learners for entertaining learning materials. Previous researchers have introduced a number of assistive technologies, but the use of assistive technologies is problematic for students with autism spectrum disorder. The lack of entertaining learning material for autism spectrum disorder students may be one of the reasons. Therefore, this study proposed student–entred learning and self–paced learning approaches to better help autism spectrum disorder students for learning. The methods of fieldwork and semistructured interviews were utilized to investigate the needs of autism spectrum disorder learners for entertaining learning materials. During the fieldwork, the favorite or main leisure activities at home of the participants were collected. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with teachers in special schools to investigate students’ needs for entertaining learning materials. The study results indicated that there are very few entertaining learning materials developed specifically for learners with autism spectrum disorder, but the need is urgent.
-- PDF Article: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10VqUKanzwVrDVzwZClBya9ifUJzOFOMV/view?usp=sharing
FACTORS AFFECTING EFL STUDENTS’ ORAL TRANSLATION EXAM PERFORMANCE: A CASE IN SOUTHERN VIETNAM
Authors: Ta Nhu Nguyen Yen , Nguyen Thao Hieu
Published: June 2024

Despite the rapid development of technology and digital applications, interpreters play an indispensable role in assisting effective communication and connecting speakers from different cultures. To fulfil the global demand, more oral translation programs and courses are offered in higher education institutions. While there has been more attention to process-based teaching and learning, little has been done to examine what affects students’ performance during summative assessment. This present study explores (1) EFL students' perceptions of the factors influencing their oral translation exam performance, (2) strategies students use and expectations on lecturers to enhance interpreting competence. This study employed a mixed approach. Online questionnaire and interviews were used to collect data from 72 English majors at a university in the south of Vietnam. The results revealed that audio quality, testing-taking anxiety, memory, vocabulary shortage, and listening skills had a greater impact on students' oral translation exam performance than other factors. Students have various strategies and expectations of lecturers concerning a positive testing environment.
-- PDF Article: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1adlfJkKhJ3DuM8NeQt399GgFJDXRc7md/view?usp=sharing
Descriptive Study of College Student’s Career Adaptability with An Internship Experience
Authors: Ameliah Asti Deasya , Jatnika Ratna
Published: June 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine career adaptability among college students with internship experience.
Research Methodology: This study used a non-experimental design with a quantitative descriptive method. Respondents in this study were 64 college students with internship experience who were chosen by quota sampling technique. Respondents were asked to fill out a questionnaire on the Career Adapt-Abilities Scale with a reliability of 0.948.
Results: The results of the study showed that the career adaptability of 76.6% of college students with an internship experience was categorized as high. Furthermore, the profile of each dimension of career adaptability shows that most college students with internship experience also have a high profile in all dimensions.
Limitations: The inability to depict the career adaptability profile of respondents based on all the antecedent factors of career adaptability (adaptivity), such as cognitive ability and self-esteem, as well as other factors like educational institution, socioeconomic status, age, and family circumstances.
Contribution: The research contributes by offering insights to guide higher education institutions in facilitating students' internship experiences. Additionally, it provides valuable knowledge to students about the importance of developing a comprehensive career adaptability profile. This understanding, which includes various dimensions of career adaptability, helps students prepare for future career challenges and transitions.