bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable Vitality and Learning: The Connotation, Scale, and Heterogeneity of Dualistic Psychological Thriving at Work
Authors: Wang Le-Le , Zhang Lan-Xia , Ju Bin
Published: July 2023

Psychological thriving is crucial for the sustainable well-being and continuous growth of employees in the workplace. This study aims to explore the concept, measurement, and heterogeneity of dualistic psychological thriving at work to promote sustainable vitality and learning among employees. In Study 1, we identified psychological thriving at work as a second-order dualistic construct, encompassing the positive psychological state in which individuals experience vitality and learning in their current work and hold high expectations for their future work. This construct consists of two dimensions: psychological thriving of work experience and psychological thriving of work development. In Study 2, we conducted exploratory factor analysis and second-order confirmatory factor analyses using two independent samples, providing empirical evidence for the second-order dualistic structure of psychological thriving at work. Subsequently, we developed a comprehensive scale to measure dualistic psychological thriving at work and assessed its criterion validity by examining its relationship with workplace friendship and work autonomy. In Study 3, we investigated the overall levels and pursuit preferences of dualistic psychological thriving at work among different generations. The findings revealed significant differences in the overall levels and pursuit preferences of dualistic psychological thriving at work across generations. Post-1990s employees exhibited the highest overall level of dualistic psychological thriving at work, while post-1970s employees had the lowest. Moreover, post-1990s employees were more inclined to pursue psychological thriving of work experience, whereas post-1980s employees tended to seek psychological thriving of work development. No significant differences were found among post-1970s employees.
Strategies of Participants in the Carbon Trading Market—An Analysis Based on the Evolutionary Game
Authors: Hu Jieli , Wang Tieli
Published: July 2023

To effectively understand the collaborative and evolutionary mechanisms of three stakeholders in carbon trading namely, government, emission reduction enterprises, and emission control enterprises, it is important to identify the factors that affect decision-making behaviors amongst game players, ultimately contributing to the goal of “double carbon”. In this study, we constructed a tripartite game model, analyzing the selection mechanism for game strategies related to carbon trading participants through replicated dynamic equations. We also discussed the main factors that influence the evolutionary and stable outcomes of carbon trading through scenario simulations. Additionally, we introduced prospect theory to examine the impact of risk sensitivity and loss avoidance levels amongst decision-makers on the optimal outcome of the system. Our findings reveal that in the initial game model, the three decision-makers show a cyclical behavior pattern, but the system stabilizes in the optimal equilibrium state (1,1,1) when certain conditions are satisfied. Furthermore, the initial willingness of decision-makers impacts the ability of the game system to reach a stable point. Moreover, larger values for the risk sensitivity coefficient and loss avoidance coefficient can promote the evolution of the game system toward an optimal, stable point. Based on these results, targeted countermeasures are proposed to promote activity within the carbon trading market, such as giving more institutional guarantees to carbon trading and stabilizing the carbon price.
Conceptual Design of a Sustainable Bionanocomposite Bracket for a Transmission Tower’s Cross Arm Using a Hybrid Concurrent Engineering Approach
Authors: Asyraf M. R. M. , Ishak M. R. , Sheng Desmond Daniel Chin Vui , Hasni A. H. M. , Amir A. L. , Rased M. F. Abd , Rafidah M. , Norrrahim M. N. F. , Razman M. R. , Iskandar Z.
Published: July 2023

This research article elaborates on the conceptual design development of a sustainable bionanocomposite bracket for bracing installation in composite cross arm structures. The product design development employed the hybrid techniques of the theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ), morphological chart, and analytic network process (ANP) methods. The current bracket design in the braced composite cross arm is composed of heavy and easy-to-rust steel material. Therefore, this research aims to develop a new bionanocomposite bracket design to replace the heavy and easy-to-rust steel bracket. This research also aims to implement a concurrent engineering approach for the conceptual design of bionanocomposite bracket installation to enhance the overall insulation performance. A preliminary process was implemented, which covered the relationship between the current problem of the design and design planning to build a proper direction to create a new design product using TRIZ. Later, the TRIZ inventive solution was selected based on the engineering contradiction matrix with specific design strategies. From the design strategies, the results were refined in a morphological chart to form several conceptual designs to select the ANP technique to systematically develop the final conceptual design of the bionanocomposite bracket for the cross arm component. The outcomes showed that Concept Design 1 scored the highest and ranked first among the four proposed designs. The challenges of the bionanocomposite bracket design for cross arm structures and the improvement criteria in concurrent engineering are also presented.
Wind Power Forecasting Based on WaveNet and Multitask Learning
Authors: Wang Hao , Peng Chen , Liao Bolin , Cao Xinwei , Li Shuai
Published: July 2023

Accurately predicting the power output of wind turbines is crucial for ensuring the reliable and efficient operation of large-scale power systems. To address the inherent limitations of physical models, statistical models, and machine learning algorithms, we propose a novel framework for wind turbine power prediction. This framework combines a special type of convolutional neural network, WaveNet, with a multigate mixture-of-experts (MMoE) architecture. The integration aims to overcome the inherent limitations by effectively capturing and utilizing complex patterns and trends in the time series data. First, the maximum information coefficient (MIC) method is applied to handle data features, and the wavelet transform technique is employed to remove noise from the data. Subsequently, WaveNet utilizes its scalable convolutional network to extract representations of wind power data and effectively capture long-range temporal information. These representations are then fed into the MMoE architecture, which treats multistep time series prediction as a set of independent yet interrelated tasks, allowing for information sharing among different tasks to prevent error accumulation and improve prediction accuracy. We conducted predictions for various forecasting horizons and compared the performance of the proposed model against several benchmark models. The experimental results confirm the strong predictive capability of the WaveNet–MMoE framework.
Friend or Foe: How Do Consumers and Producers Affect the ESG Rating Index? Evidence from China’s Market of Organic Milk
Authors: Hou Jiangyuan , Wang Yanping , Du Mingyue
Published: July 2023

This study attempts to investigate how product attributes and consumer socio-economic status affect organic milk (OM) product ESG performance. There are not many pertinent studies on the interaction between the EGS evaluation system and organic milk products. Thus, this paper develops a targeted hedonic-regression model based on the EPB and ECB theories to investigate the ESG and sub-ESG impact of the above attributes based on the consumption dataset from Kantar Worldpanel. We also introduce the moderating variable of marketing resource intensity (MRI) to check the influencing mechanism of the sub-ESG rating index. This study demonstrates that the intensity of marketing resources has a moderating effect on the ESG performance of organic milk producers. Moreover, we also found evidence that the household’s family size and internal product attributes have a more significant impact on the ESG rating index. In addition, compared to social and governance information, the environmental information disclosure index has a more significant influence on consumers’ socio-economic status and product attributes compared with the social and governance rating index. This study not only contributes to deepening the understanding of the ESG evaluation system but also provides scientific guidance for the producers’ ESG strategy. Therefore, to increase the competitive advantage of OM enterprises, they should endeavor to construct a comprehensive evaluation system of entertainment social governance rating indexes and engage in environmental investment activities.
Microplastics as an Emerging Threat to the Global Environment and Human Health
Authors: Ghosh Shampa , Sinha Jitendra Kumar , Ghosh Soumya , Vashisth Kshitij , Han Sungsoo , Bhaskar Rakesh
Published: July 2023

In recent years, there has been mounting concern about the bearing of microplastics on human health and the comprehensive natural environment. These particles come from a variety of sources, such as soaps, personal care products, and the rundown of bigger plastic items. The impacts of microplastics on marine life and other ecosystems are substantial, including ingestion by marine animals, interference with their reproductive systems, and even death. The economic implications of microplastics are also significant, with industries, such as fishing and tourism being affected by the presence of microplastics in the environment. Exposure to microplastics can also pose potential health risks to humans, including respiratory and digestive problems, as well as disrupt sleep, contribute to obesity, and increase the risk of diabetes. To address this issue, policies and initiatives have been put in place to reduce microplastic pollution, but there are challenges that need to be overcome, such as lack of awareness, limited resources, and ineffective regulations. Further research is also needed to fully understand the impacts of microplastics on our health and to develop effective strategies to mitigate the problem. In this article, we have discussed the requirement of a multifaceted approach including reducing plastic use, promoting proper disposal and recycling of plastic waste, developing innovative technologies for capturing and removing microplastics from the environment, raising public awareness, and implementing effective regulations and policies. It is only through concerted efforts and collaboration between individuals, industries, and governments that the threat of microplastics can be tackled.
Understanding Farmers’ Intentions to Adopt Pest and Disease Green Control Techniques: Comparison and Integration Based on Multiple Models
Authors: Xiang Pingan , Guo Jian
Published: July 2023

Green control techniques (GCT) are an important supporting technology to ensure sustainable agricultural development. To advance the adoption of GCT, it is crucial to understand the intention of farmers to adopt GCT and its related determinants. However, current research is mostly limited to using a single theoretical model to explore farmers’ intentions to adopt GCT, which is not conducive to revealing the determinants of farmers’ intentions to adopt GCT. To address this gap, this study integrates the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT), and the Motivational Model (MM) based on research data from 362 rice farmers in Heshan District, Yiyang City, Hunan Province, and uses partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to empirically test and compare the above models. The model comparison results prove that the TPB (R2 = 0.818, Q2 = 0.705), TAM (R2 = 0.649, Q2 = 0.559), IDT (R2 = 0.782, Q2 = 0.674), and MM (R2 = 0.678, Q2 = 0.584) models all have explanatory power and predictive validity in the context of green control techniques. However, the integrated model (R2 = 0.843, Q2 = 0.725) is found to be superior to these individual theoretical models because it has larger values of R2, Q2, and smaller values of Asymptotically Efficient, Asymptotically Consistent, and provides a multifaceted understanding for identifying the factors influencing adoption intentions. The results of the path analysis show that attitude, perceived behavioral control, perceived usefulness, subjective norm, and visibility significantly and positively influence adoption intentions in both the single and integrated models and are determinants of farmers’ intentions to adopt GCT.
A Laboratory Investigation Regarding Storage Stability of the CRM-Modified Bitumen—CRM Processing Method (Untreated vs. Treated)
Authors: Yun Jihyeon , Vigneswaran Shyaamkrishnan , Lee Moon-Sup , Lee Soon-Jae
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study is to analyze the phase separation that occurs between treated and untreated rubber crumb particles produced by wet processes in the laboratory. The percentage of replacement used for both the treated and untreated crumb rubber-modified asphalt (CRMA) was 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%. Tests to evaluate binder properties were performed using a rotational viscometer and a DSR, and the following properties were determined—viscosity, G*/sinδ, % recovery, and Jnr. The phase separation study was analyzed using the viscosity and G*/sinδ results. In general, the results of the study show the following. (1) The treated CRMA binders had higher viscosity values than untreated CRMA binders, although some values could not be measured due to the high viscosity values. (2) The G*/sinδ, % recovery and Jnr results also had a similar trend with viscosity results. (3) The viscosity and G*/sinδ phase separation values demonstrate that treated CRMA binders perform better than untreated CRMA binders. (4) Different experimental methods have shown variations in the calculated SI value; hence, a more improved approach should be explored to accurately assess the storage stability of asphalt binders containing various additives.
The Impact of Human Capital Development on the Sustainability and Innovativeness of Deposit Money Banks’ Workforces
Authors: Kelvin-Iloafu Lovlyn Ekeowa , Monyei Francis Ezieshi , Ukpere Wilfred Isioma , Obi-Anike Happiness Ozioma , Onyekwelu Phina Njideka
Published: July 2023

In recent times, there have been calls by scholars and experts for the need to investigate the influence of human capital development (HCD) on the workforce’s innovativeness and the sustainability of businesses. To respond to this call for empiricism, this study examines the impact of human capital developments (HCD) on deposit money banks’ (DMBs’) ability to survive and sustain the innovativeness of their personnel. To achieve this, the research employed a descriptive survey design in its investigation. Five DMBs in Lagos State, Nigeria were chosen as study participants, based on their years in financial operations, staff strength, and the locations of their offices both inside and outside of the country. Amongst these DMBs are the United Bank for Africa, Access Bank, First Bank of Nigeria, Ecobank, and Zenith Bank. Human capital development significantly improves the sustainability and innovativeness of the workforce in these DMBs, as evidenced by the findings of the hypothesis test using regression analysis (r = 0.767; F = 62.720; t = 7.920; p = 0.05). This leads to the conclusion that HCD supports and fosters workforce innovation and creativity, as well as the company’s overall capacity for sustainable strategic competencies.
Transformer Architecture-Based Transfer Learning for Politeness Prediction in Conversation
Authors: Khan Shakir , Fazil Mohd , Imoize Agbotiname Lucky , Alabduallah Bayan Ibrahimm , Albahlal Bader M. , Alajlan Saad Abdullah , Almjally Abrar , Siddiqui Tamanna
Published: July 2023

Politeness is an essential part of a conversation. Like verbal communication, politeness in textual conversation and social media posts is also stimulating. Therefore, the automatic detection of politeness is a significant and relevant problem. The existing literature generally employs classical machine learning-based models like naive Bayes and Support Vector-based trained models for politeness prediction. This paper exploits the state-of-the-art (SOTA) transformer architecture and transfer learning for respectability prediction. The proposed model employs the strengths of context-incorporating large language models, a feed-forward neural network, and an attention mechanism for representation learning of natural language requests. The trained representation is further classified using a softmax function into polite, impolite, and neutral classes. We evaluate the presented model employing two SOTA pre-trained large language models on two benchmark datasets. Our model outperformed the two SOTA and six baseline models, including two domain-specific transformer-based models using both the BERT and RoBERTa language models. The ablation investigation shows that the exclusion of the feed-forward layer displays the highest impact on the presented model. The analysis reveals the batch size and optimization algorithms as effective parameters affecting the model performance.
Efficacy of Botanical Extract Formulations of Zanthroxylum usambarense and Warburgia ugandensis on Post-Harvest Management of Sitophilus zeamais in Maize
Authors: Mpoke Rhonest Siroya , Kinyua Johnson , Kimani Josephine Wambaire , Ajene Inusa Jacob , Likhayo Paddy , Khamis Fathiya Mbarak
Published: July 2023

Sitophilus zeamais causes significant losses to maize produce worldwide. The use of biodegradable and environmentally friendly botanicals as an alternative to synthetic pesticides is increasingly becoming important. Therefore, we sought to determine the use of plant extract formulations to manage S. zeamais during storage. Crude Zanthroxylum usambarense and Warburgia ugandensis stembark extracts were used for contact toxicity and repellent bioassays against S. zeamais. The formulations that exhibited the highest repellence and mortality were tested for insecticidal activity during storage for six months. Phytochemical profiles of the extracts were determined using GC-MS, and molecular docking of active compounds against insect target proteins was done. Mortality analyses revealed LD50 values of 114.89 µg/mL and 197.19 µg/mL for Z. usambarense’s hexane and methanol organic extracts, respectively. Warburgia ugandensis extracts had LD50 values of 69.25 µg/mL and 163.52 µg/mL, respectively. Extract formulations achieved weevil perforation index values of <50.00 in all treatments. The docking analysis showed the pesticidal potential of several compounds, and mortality could be attributed to Eugenol (19.28%), 1,8-cineole (5.78%) and Linalool (21.42%). The tested botanicals have demonstrated their ability to suppress S. zeamais development in stored maize and could be utilized to protect maize grains during storage.
Analysis of the Life Cycle and Properties of Concrete with the Addition of Waste Car Glass
Authors: Starczyk-Kołbyk Anna , Małek Marcin
Published: July 2023

Sustainable construction aims to reduce the negative environmental impact of buildings throughout their life cycle, which includes design, construction, use, demolition and recycling. Taking into account the successive stages of the concrete life cycle and the elements of sustainable construction, the need to carry out research and analysis of the properties of concrete with additives was noticed in aspects of the concrete life cycle, e.g., the production stage, its durability during operation and the possibility of re-use after demolition. It was also noticed that the use of additives in the form of waste materials brings many benefits, including improvement of some parameters of concrete while saving natural resources. The article presents a detailed analysis of all four phases of the assessment of the life cycle of concrete modified with the addition of waste car glass: goal and scope definition, inventory analysis, impact assessment and interpretation. The progressive increase in the amount of glass waste produced each year around the world made it necessary to start the search for new recycling methods. During the research, concrete mixes were prepared according to a new, laboratory-calculated recipe containing glass fibers, natural aggregate (sand with a fraction of 0–2), crushed aggregate (basalt with a fraction of 2–8) and Portland cement (52.5 MPa). Concrete has been designed in four variants, which differ based on n the amount of tempered glass added. The first variant W1 was modified with 66.67 kg/m3, the second variant W2 contained the addition of 111.11 kg/m3 and the third variant W3—155.56 kg/m3. After 28 days, volumetric densities, values of the modulus of elasticity and thermal properties were determined; strength tests were also carried out during which the compressive strength (Reference = 70.30 MPa; W1 = 68.18 MPa; W2 = 70.13 MPa; W3 = 68.60 MPa), tensile strength in bending (Reference = 5.70 MPa; W1 = 5.63 MPa; W2 = 5.70 MPa; W3 = 5.27 MPa) and tensile strength in splitting were determined. On the remains of the samples from the strength tests, microstructure tests were performed. The conclusions and considerations on the further direction of the research were included in the discussion. The novelty of our research is related to the elimination of the glass waste processing process, which was described in detail in the Introduction.
The Resilience of the Renewable Energy Electromobility Supply Chain: Review and Trends
Authors: Torres-Rivera Alma Delia , Mc Namara Valdes Angel de Jesus , Florencio Da Silva Rodrigo
Published: July 2023

Electromobility has been crucial in mitigating transport emissions and meeting reduction targets. From this context, this literature review’s main objective is to analyze the resilience of the electromobility supply chain that integrates renewable energy sources. This literature review focuses on the resilience of the electromobility supply chain and how it can incorporate renewable energy sources. The central argument is that the success of the supply chain depends on its ability to resist, adapt, and recover from disruptions that affect operations. We comprehensively review current knowledge in three stages: identifying critical components of resilience, highlighting challenges and opportunities for risk mitigation, establishing strategic alliances, and synthesizing vital issues, trends, and emerging areas that require further research. The findings emphasize the importance of improving supply chain resilience for sustainable transportation and environmental preservation under five guidelines: emergency preparedness, monitoring and evaluation, sustainable practices, maintenance of essential services, and prevention of operational disruptions.
Unleashing the Potential of Social Media: Enhancing Intercultural Communication Skills in the Hospitality and Tourism Context
Authors: Jin Seunghee
Published: July 2023

Intercultural communication skills play a vital role in achieving success in the global hospitality and tourism profession. This study examined the effectiveness of leveraging social media, specifically YouTube (San Bruno, CA, USA), in developing intercultural competence (ICC) among students enrolled in service management courses within the hospitality and tourism department. The research involved 112 Korean students who were divided into two groups: the experimental group (n = 57), which participated in social media-integrated intercultural learning activities; and the control group (n = 55), which engaged in traditional intercultural learning activities. Data were collected through pre- and post-questionnaires using the Intercultural Competence Scale (ICS). The findings indicated that social media-based intercultural activities on YouTube were more effective in improving learners’ ICC levels compared to traditional classroom activities. Significant differences in mean gain scores underscored the impact of social media-based interventions in promoting intercultural learning and fostering meaningful intercultural engagement. The analysis also revealed noteworthy distinctions between the experimental and control groups across various dimensions of ICC. This study emphasized the value of social media platforms, including YouTube, in facilitating positive changes in affective orientation, self-efficacy, behavior performance, and intercultural consciousness. The research provided practical insights for educators and institutions in the hospitality industry to integrate social media-based intercultural activities, thereby enhancing students’ intercultural learning experiences and nurturing their ICC.
Connectedness and Successful Aging of Older Adults in Croatia
Authors: Plužarić Jadranka , Barać Ivana , Ilakovac Vesna , Lovrić Robert , Farčić Nikolina , Mudri Željko , Barišić Marija , Pavlić Ivana
Published: July 2023

Connectedness is a multidimensional human experience that is essential to successful aging. The aims of this cross-sectional study were to assess connectedness and self-perception of successful aging in older people, to examine whether there are differences in relation to basic characteristics, and to examine whether there is a connection between connectedness and self-perception of successful aging. The respondents were elderly people in the Republic of Croatia. Data were collected using two validated scales: Croatian versions of the Register–Connectedness Scale for Older Adults and the Self-Assessment Scale of Successful Aging. The study included 824 respondents, of which 319 (38.7%) were men and 505 (61.3%) were women. The median age was 72 years. The median connectivity of the respondents was 8.9 (IQR= 7.6–10.2), and the median rating of successful aging was 3.25 (IQR = 1–5). Spearman’s correlation coefficient ρ (p value) was 0.585 (<0.001). Connectivity was rated better by respondents with a higher level of education, who were married, resided in their own homes, used modern technologies, and were active in the community. There is a significant positive association between connectedness and the self-perception of successful aging overall, as well as in all individual connectedness domains.
Special Issue: Machine Learning and Data Analysis
Authors: Michalak Marcin
Published: July 2023

This Special Issue contains 2 reviews and 17 research papers related to the following topics:Time series forecasting [1,2,3,4,5];Image analysis [6];Medical applications [7,8];Knowledge graph analysis [9,10];Cybersecurity [11,12,13];Traffic analysis [14,15];Agriculture [16];Environmental data analysis [...]
Novel “Anti-Zeolite” Ba3Sr3B4O12: Eu3+ Phosphors: Crystal Structure, Optical Properties, and Photoluminescence
Authors: Bubnova Rimma S. , Shablinskii Andrey P. , Povolotskiy Alexey V. , Shorets Olga Yu. , Ugolkov Valery L. , Volkov Sergey N. , Yukhno Valentina A. , Filatov Stanislav K.
Published: July 2023

Novel Ba3Sr3B4O12: Eu3+ phosphors were synthesized by crystallization from a melt. The crystal structures of Ba3(Sr3−1.5xEux)B4O12 (x = 0.03, 0.06, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25) solid solutions were refined from SCXRD data. The crystal structures of Ba3(Sr3−1.5xEux)B4O12 phosphors can be described in terms of the cationic sublattice and belong to the “anti-zeolite” family of borates. Its cationic framework is constructed of Ba and Sr atoms. The Eu3+ ions occupy the Sr(1) extraframework cationic site in the Ba3(Sr3−1.5xEux)B4O12 (x = 0.01–0.20) phosphors. The Ba3Sr2.625Eu0.25B4O12 borate crystallizes in a new structure type (I4/mcm, a = 13.132(3), c = 14.633(4) Å, V = 2523.5(11) Å3, Z = 8, R1 = 0.067). In the Ba3Sr2.625Eu0.25B4O12 crystal structure, the Eu3+ ions occupy Sr(1) and Ba/Sr(1) sites, which leads to changes in the crystal structure. The Wyckoff letter and occupancy of the O(5) site are changed; B–O anion groups contain two BO3 triangles (B(3) and B(4)), orientationally disordered over the four orientations, and two ordered BO3 triangles (B(1) and B(2)) in contrast to Ba3Sr3B4O12, in which these groups are disordered over the 4 and 8 orientations. The emission spectra of Ba3Sr3B4O12: Eu3+ show characteristic lines corresponding to the intraconfigurational 4f-4f transitions of Eu3+ ions. Ba3Sr2.7Eu0.20B4O12 demonstrates the strongest luminescent intensity among Ba3(Sr3−1.5xEux)B4O12 solid solutions. The increase in the Eu3+ content results in a gradual change in chromaticity from light red to orange-red/red. It can be concluded that Ba3Sr3B4O12: Eu3+ is a promising red phosphor.
Nature-Based Solutions for Disaster Reduction and Improving Ecosystem Services in the Hutoubi Watershed, Taiwan
Authors: Chiu Yen-Yu , Wu Yi-Hung , Fu Kuei-Lin , Lai Tsung-Cheng , Chen Hung-En , Chen Su-Chin
Published: July 2023

The Hutoubi Reservoir and its mainstream, Huyuan Stream, in the southern mountainous region of Taiwan, have experienced riverbed sedimentation and flood disasters for the past 150 years. In addition to climate change, it is necessary to scientifically consider its regulation for the next hundred years. This study adopted a collaborative approach, involving industry, government, and academia, using Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to enhance ecosystem services. The solution layout is constructed by widening the channel and constructing additional farm ponds and wetlands. An hydraulic simulation indicated that flood control was addressed. The restoration project would create diverse aquatic habitats by simulating and evaluating the distribution of ecological biotopes, using porous materials as revetments. It provided urban residents with forest leisure and recreational sites and supported the local agricultural and forestry products. The restoration has propagated local culture and created environmental and professional education. Therefore, ecological services are enhanced regarding regulation, support, provision, and culture. This pilot study, led by researchers, aimed to promote comprehensive management concepts considering all stakeholders and their active participation. We integrated NbS into the watershed and its river system as a pathway for facing the challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change and improving ecosystem services.
Nitrate Migration and Transformation in Low Permeability Sediments: Laboratory Experiments and Modeling
Authors: Wang Sai , Wu Bin , Wang Yating , Wang Xiaoyan
Published: July 2023

The excessive application of fertilizers and the uncontrolled discharge of untreated wastewater on land contribute to the nitrogen pollution of groundwater. Low permeability sediment plays an important role in slowing down the migration of nitrate in groundwater systems. This study focuses on the mechanisms that affect nitrate transport in the low permeability layer. A soil column experiment was conducted and an MT3D transport model (a modular three-dimensional multispecies transport model) of nitrate was proposed. The results show that a low permeation layer could act as a strong barrier to nitrate migration and transportation, as demonstrated by the column soil experiment. The denitrification rates were controlled by many other factors, including nitrate concentration, flow rate, pH values and sediment particle characteristics. This indicated that denitrification is the most important factor in the attenuation of nitrate in low permeability sediments. This study clarified the law of migration and transformation of nitrate in low permeability soils and the factors that influence these processes. The results not only provide a basis for large-scale nitrate simulations, but also provide a reference for nitrate treatment in low permeability layers.
Highly Efficient Removal of Mercury Ions from Aqueous Solutions by Thiol-Functionalized Graphene Oxide
Authors: Sun Qi , Wang Lixia , Li Ying , Li Li , Li Shuping , Zhu Guangcan
Published: July 2023

Mercury ion (Hg(II)) is one of the most prevalent and dangerous heavy metal ions in the environment, and its removal from water sources is a priority for public health and ecosystem conservation policies. Adsorption is a cost-effective and efficient method for removing heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. In this study, the thiol-functionalized graphene oxide (GO-SH) was synthesized and used for efficient removal of Hg(II) from aqueous solutions. More than 98% of Hg(II) was efficiently removed by GO-SH within 36 h. The Hg(II) removal efficiency by GO-SH treatment was approximately double that by pure GO treatment. The adsorption behavior of Hg(II) on GO-SH was well described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic and the Freundlich isotherm models. Moreover, GO-SH exhibited good stability and reusability in the cycle experiments. Analysis of the adsorption mechanism showed that Hg(II) could be loaded onto the GO-SH surface by reacting with the sulfhydryl groups. This study demonstrates that GO-SH is a promising water purification material with a high efficiency for Hg(II) removal.
Application of the Standardised Streamflow Index for Hydrological Drought Monitoring in the Western Cape Province, South Africa: A Case Study in the Berg River Catchment
Authors: Mukhawana Mxolisi , Kanyerere Thokozani , Kahler David , Masilela Ndumiso
Published: July 2023

In many regions around the world, drought has been recurrent, more frequent, and more intense over time. Hence, scientific research on drought monitoring has become more urgent in recent years. The aim of this study was to test the applicability of the Standardised Streamflow Index (SSI) for hydrological drought monitoring in the Berg River catchment (BRC), Western Cape (WC) province, South Africa (SA). Using various methods described in this study, the sensitivity of the SSI to the commonly used Gamma, Log-normal, Log-logistic, Pearson Type III, and Weibull Probability Distribution Functions (PDFs) was tested. This study has found that all the tested PDFs produced comparable results for mild to severe drought conditions. The SSI calculated using the Gamma, Log-Normal, and Weibull PDFs is recommended for the BRC because it consistently identified extreme drought conditions during the 1990–2022 study period and identified the 2015–2018 droughts as the worst during the study period. Although more studies are required to test other PDFs not considered, this study has shown that the SSI can be applicable in the BRC. This study has provided a foundation for more research on the application of the SSI in the BRC and other catchments in SA.
Application of fixed combinations in the treatment of arterial hypertension. Focus on ramipril and amlodipine
Authors:   FSAEI HE Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Maksimov M. L. , Shnaider K. O. ,   FSAEI HE Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Kondrakhin A. P. ,   FSAEI HE Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow
Published: July 2023

In modern algorithms of arterial hypertension treatment, the main strategic approach aimed at increasing the therapy effectiveness is the use of fixed combinations (FC) of two antihypertensive drugs at the start of therapy and of three drugs (preferably in one tablet) when it is necessary to intensify pharmacotherapy. Starting therapy with two drugs in one tablet (FC) is recommended for more than 70 % of patients. The article provides up-to-date information on the choice of a fixed combination for the treatment of patients with arterial hypertension (AH) according to modern national and international recommendations. The place of a fixed combination of ramipril and amlodipine among antihypertensive drugs in achieving the goal of treating patients with arterial hypertension was determined. The advantages of the fixed combination of ramipril and amlodipine due to the wide range of indications and its effectiveness for patients with hypertension in combination with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and metabolic syndrome are discussed. The distinctive properties of the fixed combination of ramipril and amlodipine are emphasized: it allows achieving target values of blood pressure (BP), improves adherence to treatment, reduces the frequency of prescribing additional antihypertensive drugs, and increases patient satisfaction with treatment. In patients with diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome, the fixed combination of ramipril and amlodipine allows achieving target values of blood pressure, promotes adherence to treatment, reduces heart rate, improves biochemical parameters of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and functional kidney indicators. Ramipril, along with perindopril, is widely prescribed for patients with arterial hypertension, and its combination with amlodipine can be considered the method of choice in arterial hypertension patients with diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome.
Digital technologies and social landscape transformation
Authors:   FSAEI HE I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Sechenov University), Lebed O.L.
Published: July 2023

As social practice shows, the future is born from the present. Widely presented at the booths of the Week of Medical Education 2021–2023, robotic and simulation technologies confirmed the effectiveness and prospective viability of using technical developments in medicine. Medicine, being a part of social life, plays an important role in the life of the individual and social groups, and, certainly, its role will only increase [1, 2]. Medical interventions, which until recently seemed to be exclusive novelties, “miracles of science and technology”, have currently become a common clinical practice, not only in capital clinics, but also in regional hospitals. This makes the discussion about strategically promising directions in the development of medicine extremely relevant.
The food culture of Russian students and its impact on health
Authors:   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Lebed O. L. , Vershinina V. A. ,   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: July 2023

Although studies on public health and lifestyle diseases have a long history, they are characterized by the selective nature of the consideration of the issue. Over the past decades, student youth has repeatedly been the focus of such studies. Student lifestyle is often accompanied by a violation of the regime of work and rest, quality sleep, as well as cooking and eating. Often, students' meals include unbalanced, high-calorie foods. In this regard, the importance of forming a need for a healthy lifestyle, an attentive attitude to health, and skills aimed at maintaining and preserving it among Russian students is apparent. This goal can be achieved through active outreach and awareness-raising work and the introduction of educational programs and youth projects focused on protection and promotion of Russian students’ health.
Attributable risks of varicose veins in the population of a large region of the Central Federal District of the Russian Federation
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Yaroslavl State Medical University» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Yaroslavl, Russia, Potapov M. P. , Aleksandrov Yu. K. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Yaroslavl State Medical University» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Yaroslavl, Russia
Published: July 2023

The article presents the results of a study of the attributable risks of varicose veins in the population of a large region of the Central Federal District of the Russian Federation. A retrospective study of statistical data from medical documents of patients with a diagnosis of lower limb varicose veins who underwent outpatient treatment in the private medical organization Yaroslavl Phlebology Center «Doktor Ven» from 2015 to 2021 was conducted. The homogeneity of the studied population was assessed by age and time criteria, and the analysis of risk factors for the development of varicose veins recorded by experts in patients with an established diagnosis of I83.0, I83.1, I83.2, and I83.9 according to the ICD-10 was carried out. It is known that the prevalence of varicose veins is at the level of 12–26 % among the adult population. This study made it possible to prove that socio-economic, socio-biological, and medical attributable risk factors are the key factors influencing the excessive incidence of varicose disease, its progression and recurrence. Stratification of risks from the perspective of their management capabilities is the first step towards the development of integrated approaches and measures aimed at preventing the varicose veins disease and reducing its prevalence in the population at all levels: from individual to state level. The analysis of attributable risks without taking into account the uncertainty factor and randomness in the data sample and determining the confidence interval in which the true value of the parameter of the general population is located with a certain degree of probability requires reliability correction. In this regard, further study of the pathoepidemiology of varicose veins using sufficiently reliable statistical research methods is of great scientific and practical interest.
The use of non-traditional feed products in the diets of broiler chickens under the conditions of the south of Russia
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Maykop State Technological University”, Russia, Republic of Adygea, Maykop, Tletseruk I. R.
Published: July 2023

The territory of the Republic of Adygea is very favorable for intensive grain production. However, in recent years, there has been a steady trend of increasing average annual air temperatures in this subject of the south of Russia, droughts are increasingly occurring. At the same time, the yield of grain crops is falling. For this reason, it is necessary to pay attention to the introduction of triticale, sorghum and rapeseed grains (presscake and meal) into feed production, which are more resistant to adverse climatic factors compared to traditional cereals (wheat, barley and corn) and oilseeds (soy, sunfl ower). The purpose of the research was to experimentally substantiate the use of non-traditional feed products in the diets of broiler chickens under the conditions of the South of Russia. Under the conditions of the arid zone of the south of Russia, the eff ectiveness of using non-traditional grain crops (drought-resistant triticale varieties) in the formulation of compound feeds for broiler chickens, the use of rapeseed meal in compound feeds containing triticale and the use of methods to increase the effi ciency of using complete compound feeds containing non-traditional components has been experimentally substantiated. It has been established that under the conditions of the arid climate of the south of Russia, without prejudice to the economic and biological indicators, broiler chickens with a twophase type of feeding should include triticale grain (in the fi rst phase at a dose of 10,0 %, in the second phase at a dose of 16,4 % by weight of compound feed) and rapeseed meal (in the fi rst phase at a dose of 14,0 %, in the second phase at a dose of 16,0 % by weight of compound feed) instead of a similar amount of traditional and more expensive soy and sunflower meal. This contributed to a reduction in costs per 1 kg of gain of 5,56 rubles and the increase in the profitability of poultry meat production by 3,70 abs.%.
Comparison of full-mouth and partial-mouth disinfection modalities in nonsurgical periodontal treatment for periodontitis: a randomized clinical trial in vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thuy Duong , Tran Thi To Uyen
Published: July 2023

Background: Periodontitis is the most common form of periodontal disease, greatly affecting the aesthetics, function as well as patient’s quality of life. In the periodontal disease treatment strategy, nonsurgical treatment is considered as the initial phase for anti-infection and soft-tissue management.

Objective: This study aims to compare the effect of two nonsurgical periodontal modalities: one-stage full-mouth and partial-mouth protocols for periodontitis. Materials and Methods: 60 patients with chronic periodontitis were randomly allocated to 2 groups. Group I (n = 30) was treated according to partial-mouth therapy. Group II (n = 30) was treated according to full-mouth disinfection therapy. Periodontal parameters were assessed at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months, including plaque index, gingival index, periodontal probing depth, clinical attachment loss, and bleeding on probing.

Results: Both two treatment modalities resulted in significant improvements in all clinical parameters over the entire duration of the study (p < 0.05). Full-mouth disinfection therapy showed significantly better improvements than the partial-mouth one during follow-up times (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Nonsurgical periodontal treatment has positive effects on controlling periodontitis. Full-mouth therapy shows clinical benefits over partial-mouth therapy in improving periodontal conditions.

Key words: Periodontitis, nonsurgical periodontal therapy, full-mouth therapy, partial-mouth therapy.
PERENCANAAN DISTRIBUSI PENERANGAN UNTUK RUANGAN DI ATAS KAPAL TB LIBERTY 217 GT MENGGUNAKAN METODE ZONAL CAVITY
Authors: Suardi Suardi , Pawara Muhammad Uswah , Alamsyah Alamsyah , Nugraha Arifuddin Andi Mursid , Mahmuddin Faisal , Clara Sherly
Published: July 2023

Perencanaan kelistrikan kapal harus dilakukan secara cermat dan akurat karena akan berpengaruh terhadap besar daya generator yang akan digunakan. Generator kapal dirancang untuk mampu mendistribusikan listrik untuk kebutuhan power (pompa), Penerangan (Lightning), Komunikasi dan Navigasi untuk berbagai kondisi pelayaran.  Sama halnya dengan kapal lainnya, TB Liberty  juga memerlukan distribusi tenaga dari generator untuk suplai kebutuhan listrik di atas kapal khususnya untuk penerangan kapal. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui besaran daya listrik yang dibutuhkan untuk distribusi penerangan diatas kapal dengan menggunakan lampu Light-Emitting Diode (LED). Metode yang digunakan adalah metode zonal cavity dengan konsep dasar membagi setiap ruangan menjadi tiga bagian yaitu height ceiling cavity (hcc), height room cavity  (hrc), dan height floor cavity (hfc) serta penentuan nilai iluminasi sesuai dengan standar yang telah di tetapkan oleh American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa besar beban listrik untuk distribusi penerangan pada kapal TB Liberty dengan menggunakan lampu LED yaitu deck buttom plane sebesar 0.633 Kw, pada main deck sebesar 0.6625 Kw dan pada geladak navigasi didapatkan sebesar 0.238 Kw. Penelitian ini mampu menjadi rujukan dalam penentuan kelistrikan di atas kapal khususnya untuk instalasi penerangan kapal.