bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brand-Owners’ Exclusive Channel Strategies in Multitier Supply Chains: Effect of Contract Unobservability
Authors: Xiong Minghua , Zhuo Xiaopo
Published: April 2023

In multitier supply chains, brand-owners often form exclusive deals with downstream retailers or upstream suppliers. Therefore, the selection of exclusive channel strategies becomes a critical decision for brand owners, resulting in three typical structures: a flexible structure, an exclusive retailing-channel structure, and an exclusive purchasing-channel structure. This paper contributes to the literature by formulating these three representative channel structures in a three-tier supply chain. Both observable and unobservable contracts are considered in each structure. We build game-theoretical models and derive the equilibrium outcomes under observable and unobservable contracts. We find that the exclusive retailing channel is more beneficial for brand-owners, regardless of whether the contracts are observable or unobservable. Additionally, the exclusive retailing channel benefits the entire supply chain more than the exclusive purchasing channel when the level of channel substitutability is low (high) under contract observability (unobservability). With regard to the effect of contract unobservability, we find that it can benefit brand-owners when the level of channel substitutability is low, but it can harm them when the level of channel substitutability is high. Furthermore, we explore the effects of channel substitutability and demonstrate that brand-owners’ performance can be positively and negatively affected by the channel substitutability under contract unobservability. Our findings provide operational strategies for brand-owners to form exclusive channels in a multitier supply chain.
Enhancing the Fatigue Design of Mechanical Systems Such as Refrigerator to Reserve Food in Agroindustry for the Circular Economy
Authors: Woo Seongwoo , O’Neal Dennis L. , Hassen Yimer Mohammed , Mebrahtu Gezae
Published: April 2023

To prolong the fatigue life of a product handled by machines such as refrigerators and agricultural machinery, parametric accelerated life testing (ALT) is recommended as a systemized approach to detect design inadequacies and reduce fatigue. It demands (1) an ALT strategy, (2) a fatigue type, (3) parametric ALTs with change, and (4) an estimate of whether the present product completes the BX lifetime. The utilization of a quantum-transported life-stress type and a sample size are advocated. The enhancements in the lifetime of a refrigerator ice-maker, containing an auger motor with bearings, were employed as a case study. In the 1st ALT, a steel rolling bearing cracked due to repeated loading under cold conditions (below −20 °C) in the freezer compartment. The bearing material was changed from an AISI 52100 Alloy Steel with 1.30–1.60% chromium to a lubricated sliding bearing with sintered and hardened steel (FLC 4608-110HT) because of its high fatigue strength at lower temperatures. In the 2nd ALT, a helix made of polycarbonates (PCs) fractured. In the redesign, a reinforced rib of the helix was thickened. Because no troubles in the 3rd ALT happened, the life of an ice-maker was proven to have a B1 life 10 years.
Tilt Angle Adjustment for Incident Solar Energy Increase: A Case Study for Europe
Authors: Machidon Dragos , Istrate Marcel
Published: April 2023

The work presented in this paper aims to analyze the efficiency of using optimum tilt angles defined for several time intervals to maximize the incident solar irradiation on a certain surface deployed in Europe. Such a technique would improve the solar energy harvesting process, both for photovoltaic panels and solar thermal collectors, while not investing in the more expensive sun-tracking devices. The optimum tilt angles have been determined for the yearly, bi-annual, seasonal, and monthly time intervals, which were delimited on a calendar and astronomical base, respectively, considering multiple locations from Europe, and using various mathematical models based on empirical equations and solar irradiation estimation. The total incident solar irradiation provided by adjusting the tilt angle multiple times per year was calculated and compared to that obtained when using the yearly optimum tilt angle. The gains for each type of adjustment were investigated, and the monthly optimization of the tilt angle is obviously the most effective one, ensuring gains of up to 7%, depending on the considered latitude. Otherwise, an optimization twice per year, using the bi-annual optimum tilt angles determined for the astronomical-defined warm and cold seasons, would be the next best solution.
On Generalized Bivariate (p,q)-Bernoulli–Fibonacci Polynomials and Generalized Bivariate (p,q)-Bernoulli–Lucas Polynomials
Authors: Guan Hao , Khan Waseem Ahmad , Kızılateş Can
Published: April 2023

Many properties of special polynomials, such as recurrence relations, sum formulas, and symmetric properties, have been studied in the literature with the help of generating functions and their functional equations. In this paper, we define the generalized (p,q)-Bernoulli–Fibonacci and generalized (p,q)-Bernoulli–Lucas polynomials and numbers by using the (p,q)-Bernoulli numbers, unified (p,q)-Bernoulli polynomials, h(x)-Fibonacci polynomials, and h(x)-Lucas polynomials. We also introduce the generalized bivariate (p,q)-Bernoulli–Fibonacci and generalized bivariate (p,q)-Bernoulli–Lucas polynomials and numbers. Then, we derive some properties of these newly established polynomials and numbers by using their generating functions with their functional equations. Finally, we provide some families of bilinear and bilateral generating functions for the generalized bivariate (p,q)-Bernoulli–Fibonacci polynomials.
Study on the Anisotropy of Strength Properties of Columnar Jointed Rock Masses Using a Geometric Model Reconstruction Method Based on a Single-Random Movement Voronoi Diagram of Uniform Seed Points
Authors: Zhu Zhende , Wang Luxiang , Zhu Shu , Wu Junyu
Published: April 2023

The unique structural characteristics and special symmetry of columnar jointed rock mass result in its complex mechanical properties and strong anisotropy, which seriously affects the safety of engineering construction. To better simulate natural columnar jointed rock mass, a geometric model reconstruction method based on a single-random movement Voronoi diagram of uniform seed points using the feasible geological parameters of horizontal polygon density, irregular factor, dip angle, strike angle, transverse joint spacing, and transverse joint penetration rate is proposed in this paper. Based on this method, numerical simulation of CJRM models with varying strike angles, dip angles, and irregular factors under uniaxial compression were conducted. The results show that the uniaxial compression strengths versus strike angle and dip angle both decrease with the increase in the irregular factor, showing a U-shape and a gentle W-shape, respectively. The strength anisotropy of the strike angle decreases from 1.1057 to 1.0395 with the increase in the irregular factor, indicating relatively isotropy. With the increase int the irregular factor, the strength anisotropy of the dip angle increases from 4.3381 to 6.7953, indicating an increasing strong anisotropy at a high degree, and the effect of the irregular factor on strength behavior has the strongest and weakest impact at the dip angles of 60° and 90°, respectively.
Time Series Analysis Based on Informer Algorithms: A Survey
Authors: Zhu Qingbo , Han Jialin , Chai Kai , Zhao Cunsheng
Published: April 2023

Long series time forecasting has become a popular research direction in recent years, due to the ability to predict weather changes, traffic conditions and so on. This paper provides a comprehensive discussion of long series time forecasting techniques and their applications, using the Informer algorithm model as a framework. Specifically, we examine sequential time prediction models published in the last two years, including the tightly coupled convolutional transformer (TCCT) algorithm, Autoformer algorithm, FEDformer algorithm, Pyraformer algorithm, and Triformer algorithm. Researchers have made significant improvements to the attention mechanism and Informer algorithm model architecture in these different neural network models, resulting in recent approaches such as wavelet enhancement structure, auto-correlation mechanism, and depth decomposition architecture. In addition to the above, attention algorithms and many models show potential and possibility in mechanical vibration prediction. In recent state-of-the-art studies, researchers have used the Informer algorithm model as an experimental control, and it can be seen that the algorithm model itself has research value. The informer algorithm model performs relatively well on various data sets and has become a more typical algorithm model for time series forecasting, and its model value is worthy of in-depth exploration and research. This paper discusses the structures and innovations of five representative models, including Informer, and reviews the performance of different neural network structures. The advantages and disadvantages of each model are discussed and compared, and finally, the future research direction of long series time forecasting is discussed.
Chikungunya Transmission of Mathematical Model Using the Fractional Derivative
Authors: Jain Sonal , Chalishajar Dimplekumar N.
Published: April 2023

In this study, a mathematical model that may depict the dynamic transmission of the Chikungunya virus within a specific population has been examined. Various differential operators were considered, ranging from classical to nonlocal operators. We added a stochastic component to each instance and used the Lipschitz and linear growth criteria to illustrate the existence and uniqueness of the solutions. The most recent numerical method with Newton polynomial (are related symmetrical) interpolations was used to solve each problem numerically using MATLAB. There are some presented numerical simulations which are compared with the Lipschitz and linear growth properties. This new research work emphasizes how the Chikungunya virus model is formulated using fractional ODEs.
An Improved DCC Model Based on Large-Dimensional Covariance Matrices Estimation and Its Applications
Authors: Zhang Yan , Tao Jiyuan , Lv Yongyao , Wang Guoqiang
Published: April 2023

The covariance matrix estimation plays an important role in portfolio optimization and risk management. It is well-known that portfolio is essentially a convex quadratic programming problem, which is also a special case of symmetric cone optimization. Accurate covariance matrix estimation will lead to more reasonable asset weight allocation. However, some existing methods do not consider the influence of time-varying factor on the covariance matrix estimations. To remedy this, in this article, we propose an improved dynamic conditional correlation model (DCC) by using nonconvex optimization model under smoothly clipped absolute deviation and hard-threshold penalty functions. We first construct a nonconvex optimization model to obtain the optimal covariance matrix estimation, and then we use this covariance matrix estimation to replace the unconditional covariance matrix in the DCC model. The result shows that the loss of the proposed estimator is smaller than other variants of the DCC model in numerical experiments. Finally, we apply our proposed model to the classic Markowitz portfolio. The results show that the improved dynamic conditional correlation model performs better than the current DCC models.
Digital Transformation Journey Guidance: A Holistic Digital Maturity Model Based on a Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Aras Arzu , Büyüközkan Gülçin
Published: April 2023

For a successful digital transformation, organizations must create an accurate roadmap and manage the process effectively. A digital maturity model is a critical success factor as it enables organizations to assess their current situation and create roadmaps aligned with their goals; however, a comprehensive systematic literature review covering the maturity models proposed by academia and consultancy firms is hard to find. Further, the existing models are sector-oriented, not organization-oriented, and do not consider the transformation journey holistically, but instead focus on model dimensions. This study first undertakes a comprehensive and up-to-date systematic literature review by applying the PRISMA approach using a bibliometric analysis tool capable of providing visual maps, then developing a unique holistic digital maturity model that covers several aspects of an organization’s digital transformation journey, from strategy to governance, and asking relevant questions. The hierarchical structure, comprising dimensions and sub-dimensions, presents content beyond the scope of other models. The results of the digital maturity assessment can be interpreted in parallel with the stages of the digital transformation. Consequently, the new holistic and sector-independent digital maturity model can be used by organizations in both the private and public sector.
Cadmium-Induced Tubular Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Satarug Soisungwan , Yimthiang Supabhorn , Pouyfung Phisit , Khamphaya Tanaporn , Vesey David A.
Published: April 2023

The global prevalence of diabetes, and its major complication, diabetic nephropathy, have reached epidemic proportions. The toxic metal cadmium (Cd) also induces nephropathy, indicated by a sustained reduction in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the excretion of β2-microglobulin (β2M) above 300 µg/day, which reflects kidney tubular dysfunction. However, little is known about the nephrotoxicity of Cd in the diabetic population. Here, we compared Cd exposure, eGFR, and tubular dysfunction in both diabetics (n = 81) and non-diabetics (n = 593) who were residents in low- and high-Cd exposure areas of Thailand. We normalized the Cd and β2M excretion rates (ECd and Eβ2M) to creatinine clearance (Ccr) as ECd/Ccr and Eβ2M/Ccr. Tubular dysfunction and a reduced eGFR were, respectively, 8.7-fold (p < 0.001) and 3-fold (p = 0.012) more prevalent in the diabetic than the non-diabetic groups. The doubling of ECd/Ccr increased the prevalence odds ratios for a reduced eGFR and tubular dysfunction by 50% (p < 0.001) and 15% (p = 0.002), respectively. In a regression model analysis of diabetics from the low-exposure locality, Eβ2M/Ccr was associated with ECd/Ccr (β = 0.375, p = 0.001) and obesity (β = 0.273, p = 0.015). In the non-diabetic group, Eβ2M/Ccr was associated with age (β = 0.458, p < 0.001) and ECd/Ccr (β = 0.269, p < 0.001). However, after adjustment for age, and body mass index (BMI), Eβ2M/Ccr was higher in the diabetics than non-diabetics of similar ECd/Ccr ranges. Thus, tubular dysfunction was more severe in diabetics than non-diabetics of similar age, BMI, and Cd body burden.
Ferroptosis as a Potential Therapeutic Target of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Mycotoxicosis: A Review
Authors: Ding Wenli , Lin Luxi , Yue Ke , He Yanfeng , Xu Bowen , Shaukat Aftab , Huang Shucheng
Published: April 2023

Mycotoxin contamination has become one of the biggest hidden dangers of food safety, which seriously threatens human health. Understanding the mechanisms by which mycotoxins exert toxicity is key to detoxification. Ferroptosis is an adjustable cell death characterized by iron overload and lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and glutathione (GSH) depletion. More and more studies have shown that ferroptosis is involved in organ damage from mycotoxins exposure, and natural antioxidants can alleviate mycotoxicosis as well as effectively regulate ferroptosis. In recent years, research on the treatment of diseases by Chinese herbal medicine through ferroptosis has attracted more attention. This article reviews the mechanism of ferroptosis, discusses the role of ferroptosis in mycotoxicosis, and summarizes the current status of the regulation of various mycotoxicosis through ferroptosis by Chinese herbal interventions, providing a potential strategy for better involvement of Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of mycotoxicosis in the future.
The Finsler Spacetime Condition for (α,β)-Metrics and Their Isometries
Authors: Voicu Nicoleta , Friedl-Szász Annamária , Popovici-Popescu Elena , Pfeifer Christian
Published: April 2023

For the general class of pseudo-Finsler spaces with (α,β)-metrics, we establish necessary and sufficient conditions such that these admit a Finsler spacetime structure. This means that the fundamental tensor has a Lorentzian signature on a conic subbundle of the tangent bundle and thus the existence of a cone of future-pointing time-like vectors is ensured. The identified (α,β)-Finsler spacetimes are candidates for applications in gravitational physics. Moreover, we completely determine the relation between the isometries of an (α,β)-metric and the isometries of the underlying pseudo-Riemannian metric a; in particular, we list all (α,β)-metrics which admit isometries that are not isometries of a.
How do German General Practitioners Manage Long-/Post-COVID? A Qualitative Study in Primary Care
Authors: Bachmeier Beatrice E. , Hölzle Salome , Gasser Mohamed , van den Akker Marjan
Published: April 2023

Background: Many patients with ongoing complaints after a SARS-CoV-2 infection are treated in primary care. Existing medical guidelines on how to diagnose and treat Long-/Post-COVID are far from being comprehensive. This study aims to describe how German general practitioners (GPs) deal with this situation, what problems they experience when managing such patients, and how they solve problems associated with the diagnosis and treatment of Long-/Post-COVID. Methods and Findings: We conducted a qualitative study and interviewed 11 GPs. The most commonly described symptoms were ongoing fatigue, dyspnea, chest tightness and a decrease in physical capacity. The most common way to identify Long-/Post-COVID was by exclusion. Patients suffering from Long-/Post-COVID were generally treated by their GPs and rarely referred. A very common non-pharmacological intervention was to take a wait-and-see approach and grant sick leave. Other non-pharmacological interventions included lifestyle advices, physical exercise, acupuncture and exercises with intense aromas. Pharmacological treatments focused on symptoms, like respiratory symptoms or headaches. Our study’s main limitations are the small sample size and therefore limited generalizability of results. Conclusions: Further research is required to develop and test pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions for patients with Long-/Post-COVID. In addition, strategies to prevent the occurrence of Long-/Post-COVID after an acute infection with SARS-CoV-2 have to be developed. The routine collection of data on the diagnosis and management of Long-/Post-COVID may help in the formulation of best practices. It is up to policymakers to facilitate the necessary implementation of effective interventions in order to limit the huge societal consequences of large groups of patients suffering from Long-/Post-COVID.
Identification of a Conserved, Linear Epitope on VP3 of Enterovirus A Species Recognized by a Broad-Spectrum Monoclonal Antibody
Authors: Fu Lie , Zhang Xiao-Yu , Jin Wei-Ping , Wang Chen , Qian Sha-Sha , Wang Meng-Jun , Wang Wen-Hui , Meng Sheng-Li , Guo Jing , Wang Ze-Jun , Chen Xiao-Qi , Shen Shuo
Published: April 2023

Outbreaks of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) have occurred frequently in the Asian-Pacific region over the last two decades, caused mainly by the serotypes in Enterovirus A species. High-quality monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are needed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the diagnosis of enteroviruses associated HFMD. In this study, a mAb 1A11 was generated using full particles of CV-A5 as an immunogen. In indirect immunofluorescence and Western blotting assays, 1A11 bound to the viral proteins of CV-A2, CV-A4, CV-A5, CV-A6, CV-A10, CV-A16, and EV-A71 of the Enterovirus A and targeted VP3. It has no cross-reactivity to strains of Enterovirus B and C. By mapping with over-lapped and truncated peptides, a minimal and linear epitope 23PILPGF28 was identified, located at the N-terminus of the VP3. A BLAST sequence search of the epitope in the NCBI genus Enterovirus (taxid: 12059) protein database indicates that the epitope sequence is highly conserved among the Enterovirus A species, but not among the other enterovirus species, first reported by us. By mutagenesis analysis, critical residues for 1A11 binding were identified for most serotypes of Enterovirus A. It may be useful for the development of a cost-effective and pan-Enterovirus A antigen detection for surveillance, early diagnosis and differentiation of infections caused by the Enterovirus A species.
Research Progress and Trend of Agricultural Non-Point Source Pollution from Non-Irrigated Farming Based on Bibliometrics
Authors: Liu Dan , Yao Zhongkai , Yang Xiaoxia , Xiong Chunmei , Nie Qingyu
Published: April 2023

The agricultural non-point source (NPS) pollution caused by non-irrigated farming, such as heavy metals, nitrogen and phosphorus, has posed an extreme threat to the security of agricultural product quality and watershed ecology. Thus, it is urgent to sort out the latest research progress and future development trend to effectively guide future scientific research and technological updates in this field. This study integrates the relevant literature of the Web of Science from 1976 to 2021 and analyzes the research hotspots and development trends in the field of agricultural NPS pollution from non-irrigated farming in combination with CiteSpace. The results showed that the proportion of publications from the United States and China accounted for 58.4%. Science of the Total Environment, Water Science and Technology and Journal of the American Water Resources Association were the most published journals. The research topics and hotspots mainly involve agricultural NPS pollution prevention technology, pollution source identification, pollution load and management and landscape pattern evolution. In the future, agricultural NPS pollution research in non-irrigated farming should combine agricultural big data platforms, spectroscopic methods, artificial intelligence technology, etc. and focus on strengthening soil testing formula fertilization management, the efficient use of livestock and poultry breeding manure, climate change and risk early warning.
Evaluation and Prediction of Water Quality of Typical Wetlands in the Source Region of the Yangtze River
Authors: Lu Sujin , Li Jianming , Si Jianhua , Miao Yan , Qi Xuejiao , Zhang Xiuzhi , Bao Wenjin , Zhang Xiaoyan , Zhou Shipeng , Jin Cheng , Qi Lijuan , Qi Yue , Zheng Xiaojing , Gong Yanhong , Wang Zhanqing , Wang Yujing , Yi Bingyu , Qi Huiming
Published: April 2023

Wetlands play an important role in water storage and water conservation, but with global climate change, the degradation of wetland ecosystems is accelerating. In this study, we conducted research on the current situation and future prediction of water quality in typical wetlands in the source region of the Yangtze River to provide a scientific basis for the protection and restoration of wetlands in the source region of the Yangtze River. The Bayesian water quality assessment method and Yao Zhiqi evaluation method were used to evaluate the water quality of typical wetlands in the source region of the Yangtze River from 2016 to 2021 and based on the climate change scenarios of three RCPs (Representative Concentration Pathways) under the CMIP5 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5) global climate model and SWAT (soil and water assessment tool) hydrological model, the wetland water quality in the source region of the Yangtze River from 2022 to 2100 was predicted. The results show that the inter-annual changes in CODMn, NH3-N, and TN in a typical wetland show a downward trend, while the temperature and DO concentration show an upward trend from 2016–2021. The changes in CODMn, temperature, and conductivity within the year are abundant season > flat season > dry season; and DO, NH3-A, TN, and TP concentrations within the year are opposite. The water quality of typical wetlands in the source region of the Yangtze River has reached Class II and above. From 2022 to 2100, under climate change in the future, TN, TP, CODMn, NH3-N, and temperature in the wetland water in the source region of the Yangtze River will continue to rise, and the concentration of DO will continue to decline. Therefore, the pressure on water resources in the source region of the Yangtze River is further aggravated, so it is urgent to strengthen water resources protection.
Advanced Oxidation Processes for Degradation of Water Pollutants—Ambivalent Impact of Carbonate Species: A Review
Authors: Rayaroth Manoj P. , Boczkaj Grzegorz , Aubry Olivier , Aravind Usha K. , Aravindakumar Charuvila T.
Published: April 2023

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) hold great promise in the removal of organic contaminants. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced in AOPs react with target pollutants to initially form several intermediate compounds that finally undergo complete mineralization. Such observations are reported, especially for laboratory-scale experiments performed in pure water. On the other hand, while considering real contaminated wastewater matrices, particularly industrial effluents, there are many co-existing ions. Carbonate ions are one of the major inorganic ions commonly existing in water resources. Hence, these ions have a significant impact on the respective water treatment processes. This review focused on the effect of carbonate ions on the degradation of pollutants in AOPs. In AOPs, carbonate radicals are formed by the scavenging reaction of the respective ions with ROS. The reactivity of these radicals towards the pollutant varies with respect to the structure and functionality. Therefore, depending on the functionalities of the contaminants, these ions show both positive and negative effects. Thus, this review aims to summarize the effects of carbonate species on the degradation of organic contaminants during AOPs and their environmental impacts. The carbonates enhanced the degradation of several emerging organic pollutants, including aniline, bisphenol A, rhodamine B, acid orange 7, naphthalene, and phenol derivatives. Carbonate presence was also revealed to have a positive contribution in cases of drug degradation, including sulfamethoxazole, propranolol, sulfamethazine, salbutamol, trimethoprim, azithromycin, naproxen, oxcarbazepine, and oxytetracycline.
Spatial-Temporal Characteristics of Spring Maize Drought in Songnen Plain, Northeast China
Authors: Pei Zhifang , Wu Bin
Published: April 2023

With the intensification of global warming, food production will face serious drought risk. In view of the insufficient applicability of the existing crop drought index, a standardized crop water deficit index (SCWDI) was constructed based on the construction idea of the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) and the crop water deficit index (CWDI) in this study. On this basis, the spatial and temporal characteristics of spring maize drought in Songnen Plain were explored by the slope trend analysis and Morlet wavelet analysis methods. The results show the following: (1) Compared with the existing drought index, the SCWDI shows obvious advantages in drought monitoring of spring maize. (2) In the whole growth stage of spring maize, the change trend of SCWDI was small in the temporal series (−0.012/10a). Spatially, the drought trend of spring maize was mainly decreasing (−0.14~0/10a). The drought frequency of spring maize in each growth stage was mainly light drought in most regions. (3) The three main drought cycles of spring maize in Songnen Plain were 29 years, 10 years, and 4 years. In the next few years, the drought of spring maize in Songnen Plain was controlled by the first main cycle, and the drought years may increase, which should be prevented. The research was expected to provide technical support for crop drought monitoring and agricultural disaster prevention.
Spatial Inequalities in Access to Safe Drinking Water in an Upper-Middle-Income Country: A Multi-Scale Analysis of Brazil
Authors: Jesus Fernanda Santos Mota de , Monteiro Antonio Miguel Vieira , Tomasella Javier
Published: April 2023

Access to drinking water is recognized as a human right, meaning that it is necessary to guarantee its universal and equitable access. Since analyzing only the average access rates to drinking water may obscure inequalities, studies have adapted socioeconomic inequalities indices to assess disparities. This research evaluated the Safe Drinking Water Access Index (SDWA) and inequalities access in all Brazilian municipalities using microdata from the 2010 Demographic Census. The inequalities were analyzed adapting indices derived from the Lorenz curve (Gini index, concentration coefficient and dissimilarity index). The results showed that the lowest SDWA rates and the highest inequality index values occurred in the north and northeast regions. The municipalities with significant inequality indexes values were rural with reduced gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. It was possible to punctuate municipalities that do not fit these rules but still need attention to safe water access guarantee. The amplitude of inequality index results reveals significant inequalities in the same regions or SDWA ranges. The inequalities in safe drinking water access were made more evident by the adapted Gini Index. This research contributes to the literature with an unprecedented analysis of Brazil and could be adapted to other countries and replicated to assess inequalities in sanitation access.
Water Distribution Network Partitioning Based on Complex Network Theory: The Udine Case Study
Authors: Spizzo Federico , Venaruzzo Giovanni , Nicolini Matteo , Goi Daniele
Published: April 2023

Water Distribution Network Partitioning (WDNP), which is the partitioning of the existing Water distribution Network (WDN) into smaller and more homogeneous portions called District Metered Areas (DMAs), is an effective strategy that allows water utilities to improve network management through water balance, pressure control, water loss detection, and protection from contamination. The partitioning is realized physically, closing the pipes between two different districts, or virtually, installing flow meters which measure the districts inflow and outflow. Pipe closures lead to a considerable network performance worsening, reducing minimum pressure, resilience, and redundancy; on the other hand, flow meters allow us to avoid these issues but involve a higher investing cost. Hence, the DMAs’ definition could become a hard task because both network performance and maximum investing cost must be respected. This paper presents the application of an optimization approach, based on complex network theory, coupled with an optimization technique based on genetic algorithms (GA). The methodology, implemented in Python environment, consists of a clustering phase carried out with two different algorithms (Girvan–Newman and spectral clustering) and a dividing phase which defines whether a gate valve or a flow meter should be installed in a pipe. The last phase is fulfilled with the GA which allows us to optimize one or more objectives in order to minimize the cost and maximize the network performance. The methodology has been applied on the Udine water distribution system, whose hydraulic model has been calibrated with a recent measure campaign. The results produced with the different clustering algorithms and objective functions have been compared to show their pros and cons.
Emerging Contaminants and Their Removal from Aqueous Media Using Conventional/Non-Conventional Adsorbents: A Glance at the Relationship between Materials, Processes, and Technologies
Authors: Almeida-Naranjo Cristina E. , Guerrero Víctor H. , Villamar-Ayala Cristina Alejandra
Published: April 2023

Emerging contaminants (ECs) are causing negative effects on the environment and even on people, so their removal has become a priority worldwide. Adsorption and the associated technologies where this process occurs (filtration/biofiltration) have gained great interest, due to its low cost, easy operation, and effectiveness mainly in the removal (up to 100%) of lipophilic ECs (log Kow > 4). Activated carbon continues to be the most efficient material in the removal of ECs (>850 mg/g). However, other conventional materials (activated carbon, clays, zeolites) and non-conventional materials (agro-industrial/forestry/industrial residues, nanomaterials, among others) have shown efficiencies greater than 90%. Adsorption depends on the physicochemical properties of the materials and ECs. Thus, physical/chemical/thermal modifications and nanomaterial synthesis are the most used procedures to improve adsorption capacity. A material with good adsorptive properties could be used efficiently in filtration/biofiltration technologies. Agro-industrial residues are promising alternatives to be used in these technologies, due to their high availability, low toxicity, and adsorption capacities (up to 350 mg/g). In filtration/biofiltration technologies, the material, in addition to acting as adsorbent, plays a fundamental role in operation and hydraulics. Therefore, selecting the appropriate material improves the efficiency/useful life of the filter/biofilter.
A Summary of China’s Water Security Status and Issues from a Special Issue
Authors: Zuo Qiting , Wang Fuqiang , Zhai Jiaqi , Zhang Xiuyu , She Dunxian , Zou Lei , Gan Rong , Luo Zengliang
Published: April 2023

Affected by global climate change and rapid socio-economic development, China faces serious water security issues, especially in terms of water shortages, flood disasters, and water-related ecological and environmental problems [...]
Editorial: Advances in Aquaculture Ecology Research
Authors: Tian Xiangli , Li Li
Published: April 2023

This Special Issue describes the advances in the last decades in the research fields of individual ecology of commercial aquatic organisms, the ecology of aquaculture systems, interactions between aquaculture activities and the environment, the structure and function of the microbial community, principles of environment management in aquaculture ecosystems, etc [...]
Performance of Sand and Mixed Sand–Biochar Filters for Treatment of Road Runoff Quantity and Quality
Authors: Koivusalo Harri , Dubovik Maria , Wendling Laura , Assmuth Eero , Sillanpää Nora , Kokkonen Teemu
Published: April 2023

Nature-based solutions and similar natural water retention measures to manage urban runoff are often implemented by cities in order to reduce runoff peaks, catch pollutants, and improve sustainability. However, the performance of these stormwater management solutions is relatively rarely assessed in detail prior to their construction, or monitored and evaluated following implementation. The objective of this study was to investigate the field-scale performance of road runoff filters with respect to the management of stormwater quantity and quality. This study synthesizes data from two intensive measurement surveys after the construction of sand and biochar-amended road runoff filters. The filters were able to strongly control the runoff volume and shape of the hydrograph. The long-term retention was about half that of the water inflow, and a hydrographic analysis showed the significant but strong event-size-dependent detention of runoff in both the sand and the sand–biochar filters. The biochar amendment in the filter showed no clear hydrological impact. The pollutant attenuation of the implemented road runoff filters was modest in comparison with that observed under controlled conditions. The impact of the biochar layer on the effluent water quality was observed as the levels of phosphorous, organic carbon, K, Ca and Mg in the sand–biochar filter effluent increased in comparison with the sand filter.
Web-Based Platforms for Landslide Risk Mitigation: The State of the Art
Authors: Bossi Giulia , Schenato Luca , Marcato Gianluca
Published: April 2023

Web-based platforms (WBPs) are online spaces where the user can interrogate and analyze data series gathered in quasi-real time from monitoring network/s. These online tools are increasingly used by government agencies, local authorities, contractors, and researchers for visualization, management, control, and analysis of monitoring data. In the risk mitigation framework, WBPs must incorporate specific tools and functions to be integral to non-structural mitigation activities. This is particularly important for the mitigation of landslide-related hazards, that sometimes are challenging to address with structural solutions. The state-of-the-art paper considers the evolution of WBPs for risk mitigation from a pioneering research topic of a decade ago to the current applications that are sometimes comprised within commercial packages. First, we describe what nowadays represents the WBP requirements regarding usability and data visualization for proper data communication. Next, tools for data management and solution regarding interoperability and data analysis are discussed. Lastly, considerations on data filtering in the context of alert and alarm triggering are presented. To be a reasonable alternative to structural mitigation works, non-structural solutions such as monitoring for alarm triggering or early warning must be dependable and stable. We have synthesized the fundamental requirements of monitoring networks devoted to risk mitigation with the expression “5 Rs”: robustness, redundancy, reliability, resilience, and responsiveness.
FOREIGN EXPERIENCE OF FUTURE PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER TRAINING IN PROJECT TECHNOLOGY USAGE
Authors: Kupchak S.
Published: April 2023

The article analyzes the foreign experience of future primary school teacher training in project activities usage. It has been established that the usage of educational projects is essential in the conditions of the New Ukrainian School. Emphasis is placed on the fact that for high-quality implementation of educational projects by schoolchildren, it is necessary to prepare future teachers for this type of activity even during their studies in higher educational institutions. The peculiarities of future primary school teacher training in different countries (France, Great Britain, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Bulgaria) are analyzed. The analysis of the foreign experience of France, Great Britain, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Bulgaria has made it possible to draw a conclusion about the relevance of project technologies in the course of future primary school teacher training. Based on the study of the educational programs that prepare students majoring in primary education at a number of European universities, it has been found that future primary school teachers should acquire relevant competencies in the organization of project activities, know a variety of innovative learning technologies, in particular project technology, carry out various educational projects in the course of professional training at higher educational institutions. Professionalism and the pace of a specialist’s entry into the professional environment depend on their knowledge, abilities, and skills, readiness to operate in modern conditions, and the ability to design and implement project technology. In some universities, specific optional disciplines have been introduced, i.e., «Educational Projects» at the Pedagogical University of the National Education Commission in Krakow.

It has been proven that the prospects for further research lie in the development of a system of future primary school teacher training in project technology usage in the course of professional activities and experimental verification of its effectiveness.
SCIENTIFIC-RESEARCH COMPETENCE IN THE SYSTEM OF FUTURE OFFICERS’ MILITARY-PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION
Authors: Torychnii O. , Denysenko E.
Published: April 2023

The article substantiates the role and place of scientific-research competence in the system of military-professional education of future officers. The essence of military-professional competence following the goals, tasks, and nature of the military activity as an integrative characteristic of future officers is determined, which is a set of professionally crucial qualities, the ability, and readiness to solve professional problems and tasks that arise in real situations of the military profession, using knowledge, skills, abilities, professional and life experience, values and culture. The list of general competencies in the system of military-professional education of future officers in military higher educational institutions (instrumental, interpersonal, research, intellectual, professional-practical, information-communication) is given. The interpretation of the concept of «scientific-research competence» from the positions of systemic, knowledge-operational, procedural-technological, functional-activity, and competence approaches is analyzed.

The features of the components of the scientific and research competence of future officers have been singled out and systematized: motivational-value, cognitive, personal, and activity-operational.

Conclusions were made regarding the possibility of considering the process of forming future officers’ scientific and research competence in the direction of a holistic educational result. The involvement of cadets in practical and fundamental research will allow them to learn the forms and methods of independent work with scientific literature, deepen the content of educational disciplines of various purposes, and develop creative skills in solving complex professional tasks.
Sur un problème inverse du calcul des variations
Authors: Dedecker Paul
Published: April 2023

Une condition nécessaire et suffisante pour qu’un système de n équations différentielles d’ordre quelconque soit identique aux équations d’Euler-Lagrange d’un problème variationnel est établie à l’aide des propriétés des formes différentielles extérieures définies dans certains espaces E(ρ).
Les séismes dans la province de Hainaut de 1900 à 1949
Authors: Fourmarier Paul , Charlier Charles
Published: April 2023

Sur la base des données obtenues au sujet des séismes de la Haine pendant la première moitié du XXe siècle, il est tenté de fournir une explication de la fréquence des tremblements de terre dans cette partie du pays. Il semble qu’il faille prendre surtout en considération la subsidence de la dépression de la Haine, subsidence qui se localise tantôt en un point, tantôt en un autre.
Sur une inégalité de la théorie des Surfaces
Authors: Orgeval Bernard d'
Published: April 2023

Démonstration par voie algébrico-géométrique de la condition pour qu'une surface algébrique irrégulière soit dépourvue de faisceau irrationnel de courbes, obtenue par voie transcendante par M. Castelnuovo.
Sur le rôle du carbone dans la formation de films minces. Généralisation à d’autres éléments ou composés
Authors: Goche Omer , Bouillon F. , Frère A.
Published: April 2023

Des éléments ou composés (C, S, Na, C d, Cd O) obtenus à partir de la décomposition d’un gaz, d’une vapeur ou d’un solide par un faisceau magnéto-cathodique se déposent en une couche amorphe et d’une manière préférentielle à l’impact du faisceau sur une lamelle réceptrice quelconque. Par contre, des éléments ou composés (Ag, Cu, Pt, CuO, ZnO, CdO) obtenus à partir de la pulvérisation cathodique forment des dépôts cristallisés, uniformes, non différenciés à l’impact du faisceau.
Sur les cercles qui possèdent des sphères focales
Authors: Backès Fernand
Published: April 2023

Dans le présent travail, nous établissons deux propriétés caractéristiques des cercles de l’espace, en nombre doublement infini, et qui possèdent des sphères focales, soit en faisant intervenir le point caractéristique du plan du cercle, soit en envisageant les points caractéristiques de deux sphères quelconques menées par le dit cercle.
À propos du principe d’Onsager
Authors: Verschaffelt Julius Emiel
Published: April 2023

Dans cette note je réponds, en les réfutant, aux objections que M. S. R. de Groot, dans une note récente, a formulées contre mon principe de superposition.
La polymérisation de l’isobutène sous l’action des rayons alpha
Authors: Mund Walter , Huyskens P.
Published: April 2023

L’isobutène se polymérise sous l’action des rayons alpha suivant une loi analogue à celle vérifiée pour le chlorure de vinyle. À température croissante le rendement ionique s’abaisse.
Sur la répartition des neutrons dans un modérateur
Authors: Janssens Paul , Gribaumont A.
Published: April 2023

La première partie de ce travail est consacrée à l’étude de la répartition énergétique et spatiale des neutrons lents dans un modérateur infini, en l’absence de capture, par une généralisation de la méthode de Langevin. D’autre part, on propose une généralisation de l’équation intégrale de S. Flügge étendue à un modérateur de masse quelconque. La solution du problème par cette seconde méthode est rigoureusement identique à celle donnée par la première.

En outre, l’équation intégrale généralisée de Flügge permet d’étendre la théorie au cas d’un modérateur capturant, elle est appliquée ici pour un modérateur d’hydrogène.
La définition de l’unité fondamentale de temps
Authors: Van den Dungen François Henri Antoine , Cox Jacques François , Van Mieghem Jacques
Published: April 2023

Les auteurs présentent quelques commentaires sur des propositions récentes relatives à la définition de l’unité fondamentale de temps.
Sur les surfaces canoniques de genres pg = 4, p(1)> ≥ 11
Authors: Burniat Pol
Published: April 2023

Au chapitre VIII de ses «Superficie Algebriche» [3], F. Enriques construit et examine minutieusement les surfaces canoniques de genres pa = pg = 4, p(1)≤9. Il met en évidence l’intérêt qui s’attache à cette question. Il fait prévoir aussi les difficultés rapidement croissantes que doit présenter la jolie méthode de Franchetta [4] si l’on veut dépasser p(1) =9.

Usant d'une méthode de caractère inductif, nous nous proposons de construire un certain nombre de familles de surfaces canoniques de genres pa = pg = 4, p(1)≥11, soumises à la condition de contenir une sous-famille de surfaces doubles canoniques 2Fn des mêmes genres.

Les surfaces Fn étant nécessairement de genre pg = 0, quand leur courbe de diramation est propre, nous commencerons, dans cette première note, la construction de familles pour lesquelles Fn est de bigenre un.
Recherche d’effets de sélection attribuables aux fluctuations de la rotation du globe terrestre
Authors: Van den Dungen François Henri Antoine , Cox Jacques François , Van Mieghem Jacques
Published: April 2023

Dans la recherche, parmi les éléments recueillis par l’observation, d’effets-images des fluctuations saisonnières de la rotation de la Terre, les auteurs n’ont pas obtenu d’indications positives.
Sur les surfaces canoniques de genres pg = p4 = 4, p(1) ≥ 11
Authors: Burniat Pol
Published: April 2023

Poursuivant nos recherches sur les surfaces canoniques de genres pg = pa = 4, p(1) ≥11, nous passons à celles de ces surfaces qui sont continument réductibles à des surfaces doubles de supports rationnels d’ordre n si p(1) = 2n + 1.

Nous trouvons ainsi que, pour p(1) = 11, il existe trois types de telles surfaces, les deux premiers en général simples, le troisième toujours double. Les classes des deux premiers types dépendent respectivement de 28 et 27 modules seulement dans les familles continues que nous construisons, alors que le minimum prévu par la formule de Noether-Enriques donne 30 modules. Les surfaces correspondantes semblent donc fournir justification à une critique importante de O. Zariski.
Spectres infra-rouges des deutéroéthylènes
Authors: Charette Jean , de Hemptinne Marc
Published: April 2023

Les spectres I. R. des deutéro-éthylènes ont été étudiés à dispersion moyenne. Quelques bandes nouvelles ont été mises en évidence et l’interprétation de l’ensemble des bandes est proposée.
Sur la thermomécanique des phénomènes irréversibles (deuxième communication)
Authors: Verschaffelt Julius Emiel
Published: April 2023

Dans cette note, complémentaire à une autre de même titre, je répare une méprise en ajoutant à certaines de mes équations des termes incorrectement négligés. J’en tire de nouvelles conséquences.