bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis of Schmidt and Stein’s Sport Commitment Model and Athlete Profiles
Authors: De Francisco Cristina , Gómez-Guerra Cynthia , Vales-Vázquez Ángel , Arce Constantino
Published: February 2022

The sport commitment model proposed by Schmidt and Stein is one of the most complete paradigms on the etiology of burnout syndrome. According to this model, the degree of burnout of athletes is related to the nature of their commitment to sporting activity. Based on the Benefits, Costs, Satisfaction, Alternatives, and Investments, three types of athletes are defined: (1) athletes who are fully committed because they enjoy the activity; (2) athletes who are committed because they feel trapped; (3) athletes who are not committed and are at risk of abandonment. Analysis of cluster and analysis of variance were performed using data collected from a sample of 357 athletes. The results were aligned with the Schmidt and Stein model predictions in terms of athlete type and partial scores for each component of the model, although with slight variations. The percentage of athletes correctly classified is 99.35% for the cluster of committed athletes; 97.35% for the cluster of entrapped athletes; 96.63% for the cluster of non-committed athletes at risk of abandonment. In conclusion, the sport commitment model provides a useful approach to explain the etiology of burnout in athletes, helping to understand the psychological keys to the syndrome.
Students’ Workplace Readiness: Assessment and Skill-Building for Graduate Employability
Authors: Siddique Sara , Ahsan Ali , Azizi Neda , Haass Omid
Published: February 2022

This study introduces a new approach for the competence development of the socio-technical aspect. The curriculum of the Project Management (PM) course taught in degree programs concentrates largely on imparting technical knowledge. Current research seeks to direct the attention of the PM curriculum towards Personal Competencies as well. PM studies not only require a project to be carried out successfully but also expect students to demonstrate certain personal competencies, behaviors, and traits to effectively lead the project team. This research seeks to inform action and yield pertinent knowledge and instructional material around the desired personal competence. This study adopts an exploratory and (educational) action research approach with a quantitative mode of inquiry. The first of the four phases of this study comprises an action-based approach to find out which Personal Competence is essential for PM students. The second phase is of further follow-ups with the research subjects that indicate their lack of understanding of the PM personal competencies. The next phase employs a second survey showing that the Communication Skills of research subjects need work. The last phase offers a comprehensive training plan around the required competence, a training evaluation tool, a competence assessment exam, and tools for training and trainer feedback. The findings of this research bear immense implications for PM competence building and curriculum. The practical contribution of the study offers a way to prepare the graduates for ready employability.
Effect of Gasification Char and Recycled Carbon Fibres on the Electrical Impedance of Concrete Exposed to Accelerated Degradation
Authors: Mobili Alessandra , Cosoli Gloria , Giulietti Nicola , Chiariotti Paolo , Pandarese Giuseppe , Bellezze Tiziano , Revel Gian Marco , Tittarelli Francesca
Published: February 2022

This paper aims to evaluate the effect of carbon-based conductive recycled additions, i.e., recycled carbon fibres (RCF) and gasification char (GCH), on the mechanical, electrical, and durability properties of concretes. The obtained results show that the compressive strength of concrete is not affected by conductive additions, whereas electrical impedance, measured according to Wenner’s method, is significantly reduced (6%, 30% and 74% with RCF, GCH, and their combination, respectively) to the advantage of self-sensing properties. As durability is concerned, conductive additions slightly increase capillary water absorption, whereas they decrease chloride ingress through diffusion and do not significantly modify carbonation resistance.
Selection of Suppliers for Speech Recognition Products in IT Projects by Combining Techniques with an Integrated Fuzzy MCDM
Authors: Taghipour Atour , Rouyendegh Babak Daneshvar , Ünal Aylin , Piya Sujan
Published: February 2022

In today’s environment, as the complexity of actual events develops, products become increasingly complicated. As a result, companies should collaborate to integrate disparate technologies while developing a product or service. Additionally, collaborating with the right supplier helps a company increase the flexibility, competitiveness, and profitability of its goods or services. The goal of this study is to look into the factors that influence supplier selection for speech recognition. Twelve sub-criteria for quality, affordability, maintenance, and adaptability are used to evaluate prospective providers. Two separate hybrid methodologies for finding the best supplier of an information technology product are presented. intuitionistic Fuzzy Due to the uncertainty of the data, VIKOR operates as the decision-making matrix and solves the issue by determining the ideal alternative for group utility using VIKOR. The second technique, Q-ROF TOPSIS, selects suppliers by utilizing q-rung orthopair fuzzy sets, which provides decision makers with greater expression flexibility than the majority of uncertainty-related strategies. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the recommended measures, a case study is conducted. The outcomes of various strategies are compared, as well as the associated advantages.
Agricultural Biogas Production—Climate and Environmental Impacts
Authors: Møller Henrik B. , Sørensen Peter , Olesen Jørgen E. , Petersen Søren O. , Nyord Tavs , Sommer Sven G.
Published: February 2022

Livestock manure is a major source of the greenhouse gases (GHGs) methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O). The emissions can be mitigated by production of biogas through anaerobic digestion (AD) of manure, mostly together with other biowastes, which can substitute fossil energy and thereby reduce CO2 emissions and postdigestion GHG emissions. This paper presents GHG balances for manure and biowaste management as affected by AD for five Danish biogas scenarios in which pig and cattle slurry were codigested with one or more of the following biomasses: deep litter, straw, energy crops, slaughterhouse waste, grass–clover green manure, and household waste. The calculated effects of AD on the GHG balance of each scenario included fossil fuel substitution, energy use for transport, leakage of CH4 from biogas production plants, CH4 emissions during storage of animal manure and biowaste, N2O emissions from stored and field applied biomass, N2O emissions related to nitrate (NO3−) leaching and ammonia (NH3) losses, N2O emissions from cultivation of energy crops, and soil C sequestration. All scenarios caused significant reductions in GHG emissions. Most of the reductions resulted from fossil fuel substitution and reduced emissions of CH4 during storage of codigestates. The total reductions in GHG emissions ranged from 65 to 105 kg CO2-eq ton−1 biomass. This wide range showed the importance of biomass composition. Reductions were highest when straw and grass–clover were used as codigestates, whereas reductions per unit energy produced were highest when deep litter or deep litter plus energy crops were used. Potential effects of iLUC were ignored but may have a negative impact on the GHG balance when using energy crops, and this may potentially exceed the calculated positive climate impacts of biogas production. The ammonia emission potential of digestate applied in the field is higher than that from cattle slurry and pig slurry because of the higher pH of the digestate. This effect, and the higher content of TAN in digestate, resulted in increasing ammonia emissions at 0.14 to 0.3 kg NH3-N ton−1 biomass. Nitrate leaching was reduced in all scenarios and ranged from 0.04 to 0.45 kg NO3-N ton−1 biomass. In the scenario in which maize silage was introduced, the maize production increased leaching and almost negated the effect of AD. Methane leakage caused a 7% reduction in the positive climate impact for each percentage point of leakage in a manure-based biogas scenario.
Settlements and Urban Morphological Quality in Landscape Planning–Analytical Models and Regulating Tools in the Landscape Plan of Regione Toscana
Authors: Carta Massimo , Gisotti Maria Rita , Lucchesi Fabio
Published: February 2022

Settlement and urban landscape quality is a vast field of research, ranging from studies on “the shape of the city” to studies on functions and services performed by the urban landscape. In Italy, a decisive steering role is entrusted to regional landscape planning, as introduced through the current Code of Cultural Heritage and Landscape. Regional landscape plans define the rules to which all municipal plans must conform. This paper aims to assess the effectiveness with which the general principles and rules regarding settlement and urban landscape quality defined on a regional level through landscape plans are transposed and implemented on a local level through municipal plans. We chose the case study of Regione Toscana, which has a Regional Landscape Plan approved in 2015 (PIT/PPR) that identifies “settlement morphotypes” and “contemporary urbanisation morphotypes” and presents “Guidelines for landscape redevelopment of urbanised fabric in the contemporary city”. We examined how the eight municipal plans approved so far are addressed in the PIT/PPR contents. We also conducted a more in-depth study on topics of interest through structured interviews with four designers who were responsible for most of the plans analysed. We also conducted a more in-depth study on topics of interest through structured interviews with several plan designers. The results from the discussion showed some weakness in the PIT/PPR’s ability to guide local planning tools to improve urban quality. Additionally, the PIT/PPR’s effectiveness appears more evident in the rhetoric of arguments used by local plans than in the results of the transformations that they prefigure.
Numerical Study on the Surface Movement Regularity of Deep Mining Underlying the Super-Thick and Weak Cementation Overburden: A Case Study in Western China
Authors: Gong Yaqiang , Guo Guangli , Wang Liping , Zhang Guojian , Zhang Guangxue , Fang Zhen
Published: February 2022

While surface movement regularities have been sufficiently understood in the mining practices of eastern China, the case seems to be very different in western China where the super-thick and weak cementation (STWC) overburden exists. To better understand such knowledge, we compared geomining conditions and surface subsidence data for 16 coal mines and developed a carefully calibrated numerical model, with primary concern the relationship between subsidence rate and mining scale. We find that mining under the STWC overburden is characterized by the extremely small subsidence rate compared to the deep mining cases in eastern China, and the unusual subsidence phenomenon should be regional rather than an isolated case. We also find that the critical subsidence basin can be formed only when the goaf length and width both reach about 3.3 h (h is the average mining depth), which is far beyond the conventional understanding. We suggest that the large-scale mining under the STWC overburden carries enormous risks, which require great attention. The reported data, findings, and suggestions in this paper should be quite useful for coal mines with similar geomining conditions, and are also important for ecological protection and sustainable development of western China.
Fresh Air–Natural Microclimate Comfort Index: A New Tourism Climate Index Applied in Chinese Scenic Spots
Authors: Yang Xiaoyan , Li Changshun , Bilal Muhammad , Jin Shaofei
Published: February 2022

Severe air pollution in China has caused significant tourism transformation for pursuing fresh air in microclimate tourism markets. Contemporary practices simply measure the air freshness of destinations and scenic spots using a single index, i.e., primarily negative oxygen ions (O2−). This index cannot comprehensively reveal scenic spots’ air freshness degree and determine the dynamic interactions between air freshness and scenic spots’ tourism development, thus inducing an illusion of air freshness for the target scenic spots. Meanwhile, the current fresh air index primarily ignores connections with the microclimate index of scenic spots and cannot provide a multidimensional index for scenic spots to take advantage of both air and microclimate resources for diverse tourism products and service production. Therefore, this study proposes a multidimensional index, the fresh air–natural microclimate comfort index (FAI-NMCI), connecting the fresh air index with the natural microclimate comfort index of scenic spots together from transdisciplinary and multidisciplinary perspectives. This study utilizes FAI-NMCI to measure four scenic spots of Fujian Province, and reveals in-depth results of scenic spots’ air freshness and natural microclimate comfort degree together. The results demonstrate that the four scenic spots in Fujian province of China had different levels of air freshness degree and natural microclimate comfort degree in 2018. The natural scenic spots were mostly distributed in Healing Fresh, Very Fresh, and Super Fresh levels of FAI with the most comfortable and comfortable levels of NMCI. The cultural scenic spots were mostly distributed in Relatively Fresh and Healing Fresh levels of FAI with the most comfortable and comfortable levels of NMCI. Meanwhile, the FAI-NMCI of natural and cultural scenic spots also had significant differences within 24 Jieqi, which will promote dynamic and creative utilization of those resources in microclimate tourism development.
Analysis of the Dialogue with Stakeholders by the IBEX 35 Companies
Authors: García-Sánchez Isabel-María , Aibar-Guzmán Cristina , Serrano-Valdecillos Carmen , Aibar-Guzmán Beatriz
Published: February 2022

Stakeholder dialogue is considered a key component of companies’ corporate social responsibility strategy with the aim to discover stakeholders’ demands, expectations, and their view of the firms. Based on the stakeholder theory, this paper aims to deepen the knowledge about stakeholder dialogue by analyzing how firms conduct the dialogue with five key stakeholder groups (i.e., employees, customers, suppliers, investors and shareholders, and the community). Using a sample of 35 leading Spanish companies and, after the collection and processing of the information available in their corporate websites and reports, we have determined the channels that are used, the pursued objectives, and the main commitments achieved. The results indicate that firms are engaged in several forms of dialogue with stakeholders and use various channels which differ depending on the targeted stakeholder group. We gain insight into the initiatives with which companies engage with stakeholders, the underlying interactions, and how each stakeholder group views and assesses the firm. Practical implications for policy makers and managers, as well as future lines of research are proposed.
A-SHIP: Ontology-Based Adaptive Sustainable Healthcare Insurance Policy
Authors: Al-Thawadi Maryam , Sallabi Farag , Awad Mamoun , Shuaib Khaled , Naqvi Muhammad Raza , Ben Elhadj Hadda
Published: February 2022

Healthcare has a significant impact on human capital anywhere. Countries usually allocate financial resources to manage healthcare, which might impose a substantial financial burden on the scope of healthcare coverage. Thus, the healthcare sector must provide the best possible services at the lowest cost. This significant challenge can only be achieved through applying appropriate policies and technologies, including those used by healthcare insurance policy providers. This paper proposes an innovative, customer-centric, sustainable healthcare insurance policy model. The main objective of this model is to sustain wellness by applying technologies to avoid illness and provide wellbeing for patients by empowering self-care remotely. The proposed solution uses an adaptive ontology-based knowledge management system to satisfy customers and market needs. The proposed system creates a customized policy that consists of various packages to match customers’ healthcare needs based on their health status. The system was tested and validated using a real dataset.
Critical Analysis for Life Cycle Assessment of Bio-Cementitious Materials Production and Sustainable Solutions
Authors: Al-Gheethi Adel Ali , Memon Zubair Ahmed , Balasbaneh Ali Tighnavard , Al-Kutti Walid A. , Mokhtar Norfaniza , Othman Norzila , Juki Mohd Irwan , Noman Efaq Ali , Algaifi Hassan Amer
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study is to study the life cycle assessment of biocementitious materials production in comparison to traditional cement materials production. The environmental impact of production processes over the life cycle was evaluated on the basis of global warming and ozone depletion, human health, land, freshwater, marine ecotoxicity, and natural water system eutrophication. LCA uses endpoint methods (ECO indicators) and SimaPro 8 software to assess the health and environmental impact of raw materials used in the production process, including cement, Ca(NO3)2·4H2O, urea, molasses, and electricity. The results showed that cement materials made 82.88% of the world’s warming in all raw materials used in production processes, 87.24% of the world’s health, 89.54% of the deforestation of freshwater, and 30.48% to marine eutrophication. Ca(NO3)2·4H2O contributes by 58.88% to ozone depletion, 15.37 to human carcinogenic toxicity, 3.19% to freshwater eutrophication, and 11.76% to marine eutrophication. In contrast, urea contributes 38.15% to marine eutrophication and 5.25% to freshwater eutrophication. Molasses contribute by 13.77% to marine eutrophication. Cement contributes 74.27% to human health damage, 79.36% to ecosystem damage; Ca(NO3)2·4H2O contributes 13.54% to human health damage and 9.99% to ecosystem damage; while urea contributes 6.5% to human health damage and 5.91% to ecosystem damage. Bio-cementitious wastewater should undergo a treatment process to remove urea and molasses residues, as well as nitrates, before final disposal into the environment.
A Study on the Incentive Policy of China’s Prefabricated Residential Buildings Based on Evolutionary Game Theory
Authors: Huang Qiyun , Wang Junwu , Ye Mengwei , Zhao Shiman , Si Xiang
Published: February 2022

With prefabricated construction method deemed as an effective way to improve the environmental performance and sustainable development of the building industry, it is inevitably adopted in the scaled residence in the process of residential industrialization. However, the development of prefabricated residential buildings is still immature under the current market economy system, because the stakeholders involved in the process are not yet able to form a good cooperation mechanism and they are more inclined to keep their own interests. As a result, the market share of prefabricated residential buildings is relatively low. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct research on the stakeholders involved. By analyzing their costs and benefits, the reasons that really impede the population of prefabricated residential buildings can be found. In this paper, incremental cost allocation coefficient is introduced, the incremental cost difference under different assembly rates is considered, and the allocation ratio of the incremental cost input of the prefabricated building is analyzed based on game theory. The evolutionary game theory for government and real estate companies is established under the condition of bounded rationality with consumer participation. Then the effectiveness of the game theory is verified using empirical analysis, so as to provide reference for the authorities to promote the large-scale development of prefabricated residential buildings.
Radiation Eye Dose for Physicians in CT Fluoroscopy-Guided Biopsy
Authors: Inaba Yohei , Hitachi Shin , Watanuki Munenori , Chida Koichi
Published: February 2022

It is important to evaluate the radiation eye dose (3 mm dose equivalent, Hp (3)) received by physicians during computed tomography fluoroscopy (CTF)-guided biopsy, as physicians are close to the source of scattered radiation. In this study, we measured the radiation eye dose in Hp (3) received by one physician during CTF in a timeframe of 18 months using a direct eye dosimeter, the DOSIRISTM. The physician placed eye dosimeters above and under their lead (Pb) eyeglasses. We recorded the occupational radiation dose received using a neck dosimeter, gathered CT dose-related parameters (e.g., CT-fluoroscopic acquisition number, CT-fluoroscopic time, and CT-fluoroscopic mAs), and performed a total of 95 procedures during CTF-guided biopsies. We also estimated the eye dose (Hp (3)) received using neck personal dosimeters and CT dose-related parameters. The physician eye doses (right and left side) received in terms of Hp (3) without the use of Pb eyeglasses for 18 months were 2.25 and 2.06 mSv, respectively. The protective effect of the Pb eyeglasses (0.5 mm Pb) on the right and left sides during CTF procedures was 27.8 and 37.5%, respectively. This study proved the existence of significant correlations between the eye and neck dose measurement (right and left sides, R2 = 0.82 and R2 = 0.55, respectively) in physicians. In addition, we found significant correlations between CT-related parameters, such as CT-fluoroscopy mAs, and radiation eye doses (right and left sides, R2 = 0.50 and R2 = 0.52, respectively). The eye dose of Hp (3) received in CTF was underestimated when evaluated using neck dosimeters. Therefore, we suggest that the physician involved in CTF use a direct eye dosimeter such as the DOSIRIS for the accurate evaluation of their eye lens dose.
Concentrations of Tetrodotoxin (TTX) and Its Analogue 4,9-Anhydro TTX in Different Tissues of the Silver-Cheeked Pufferfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus, Gmelin, 1789) Caught in the South-Eastern Mediterranean Sea, Lebanon
Authors: Hassoun Abed El Rahman , Ujević Ivana , Jemaa Sharif , Roje-Busatto Romana , Mahfouz Céline , Fakhri Milad , Nazlić Nikša
Published: February 2022

Pufferfishes are among the best-known marine organisms that accumulate marine biotoxins such as Tetrodotoxin (TTX). In the Mediterranean Sea, the silver-cheeked toadfish Lagocephalus sceleratus is the most reported TTX-bearer, causing many fatal and non-fatal cases. In Lebanon, no previous studies have measured TTX levels although the possibility of TTX-poisoning is high since L. sceleratus is caught in different sizes and can be mistaken with other small fishes. Hence, this study reports TTX and its analogue 4,9-anhydro TTX in L. sceleratus collected from Lebanese waters in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. The results show that TTX concentrations in fish tissues varied between 0.10 and 252.97 µg/g, while those of 4,9-anhydro TTX oscillated between 0.01 and 43.01 µg/g. Internal organs of L. sceleratus were the most toxic parts of its body, with the highest TTX levels found in gonads (mainly ovaries) and liver, followed by the muscles and skin with concentrations always exceeding the safety level. Toxicity fluctuations of L. sceleratus, its expansion, ecological and economic effects were also elucidated. Based on the present findings, it has been confirmed that L. sceleratus constitutes a health, ecological and economic risks, and therefore its trade in seafood markets should be banned to avoid any potential intoxication.
Isolation, Characterization, and Molecular Detection of Porcine Sapelovirus
Authors: Ibrahim Yassein M. , Zhang Wenli , Werid Gebremeskel Mamu , Zhang He , Feng Yawen , Pan Yu , Zhang Lin , Li Changwen , Lin Huan , Chen Hongyan , Wang Yue
Published: February 2022

Porcine sapelovirus (PSV) is an important emerging pathogen associated with a wide variety of diseases in swine, including acute diarrhoea, respiratory distress, skin lesions, severe neurological disorders, and reproductive failure. Although PSV is widespread, serological assays for field-based epidemiological studies are not yet available. Here, four PSV strains were recovered from diarrheic piglets, and electron microscopy revealed virus particles with a diameter of ~32 nm. Analysis of the entire genome sequence revealed that the genomes of PSV isolates ranged 7569–7572 nucleotides in length. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the isolated viruses were classified together with strains from China. Additionally, monoclonal antibodies for the recombinant PSV-VP1 protein were developed to specifically detect PSV infection in cells, and we demonstrated that isolated PSVs could only replicate in cells of porcine origin. Using recombinant PSV-VP1 protein as the coating antigen, we developed an indirect ELISA for the first time for the detection of PSV antibodies in serum. A total of 516 swine serum samples were tested, and PSV positive rate was 79.3%. The virus isolates, monoclonal antibodies and indirect ELISA developed would be useful for further understanding the pathophysiology of PSV, developing new diagnostic assays, and investigating the epidemiology of the PSV.
Screening of Botanical Drugs against SARS-CoV-2 Entry Reveals Novel Therapeutic Agents to Treat COVID-19
Authors: Cao Junyuan , Liu Yang , Zhou Minmin , Dong Siqi , Hou Yuxia , Jia Xiaoying , Lan Xiaohao , Zhang Yueli , Guo Jiao , Xiao Gengfu , Wang Wei
Published: February 2022

An escalating pandemic caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has severely impacted global health. There is a severe lack of specific treatment options for diseases caused by SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we used a pseudotype virus (pv) containing the SARS-CoV-2 S glycoprotein to screen a botanical drug library containing 1037 botanical drugs to identify agents that prevent SARS-CoV-2 entry into the cell. Our study identified four hits, including angeloylgomisin O, schisandrin B, procyanidin, and oleanonic acid, as effective SARS-CoV-2 S pv entry inhibitors in the micromolar range. A mechanistic study revealed that these four agents inhibited SARS-CoV-2 S pv entry by blocking spike (S) protein-mediated membrane fusion. Furthermore, angeloylgomisin O and schisandrin B inhibited authentic SARS-CoV-2 with a high selective index (SI; 50% cytotoxic concentration/50% inhibition concentration). Our drug combination studies performed in cellular antiviral assays revealed that angeloylgomisin O has synergistic effects in combination with remdesivir, a drug widely used to treat SARS-CoV-2-mediated infections. We also showed that two hits could inhibit the newly emerged alpha (B.1.1.7) and beta (B.1.351) variants. Our findings collectively indicate that angeloylgomisin O and schisandrin B could inhibit SARS-CoV-2 efficiently, thereby making them potential therapeutic agents to treat the coronavirus disease of 2019.
Turbulent Flow Structures in Developing and Fully-Developed Flows under the Impact of Downward Seepage
Authors: Sharma Anurag , Kumar Bimlesh , Oliveto Giuseppe
Published: February 2022

This work experimentally investigates the turbulent flow characteristics of developing and fully-developed flows over a rough bed channel that is subjected to downward seepage. Instantaneous 3D velocities were collected using an acoustic Doppler velocimeter (ADV) in the developing and fully-developed flow regions, along the channel centerline, to analyze different turbulent statistics. Observations revealed that the streamwise and vertical velocities were higher in developing flows, whereas the Reynolds shear stresses, and turbulence intensities, were smaller. The downward seepage would affect the velocity distributions and flow depth in both the developing and fully-developed regions. Therefore, new equations to represent the distribution of the turbulence intensities were proposed, and a comparison with the current literature is provided. The investigation of the Reynolds stress anisotropy tensors concludes that the degree of anisotropy in fully-developed flows is lower than for developing flows.
An Underestimated Contribution of Deltaic Denitrification in Reducing Nitrate Export to the Coastal Zone (Po River–Adriatic Sea, Northern Italy)
Authors: Gervasio Maria Pia , Soana Elisa , Vincenzi Fabio , Castaldelli Giuseppe
Published: February 2022

In transitional environments, the role of sediments biogeochemistry and denitrification is crucial for establishing their buffer potential against nitrate (NO3−) pollution. The Po River (Northern Italy) is a worldwide hotspot of eutrophication. However, benthic N dynamics and the relevance of denitrification in its delta have not yet been described. The aim of the present study was to quantify the contribution of denitrification in attenuating the NO3− loading transported to the sea during summer. Benthic fluxes of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (N) and denitrification rates were measured in laboratory incubations of intact sediment cores collected, along a salinity gradient, at three sections of the Po di Goro, the southernmost arm of the Po Delta. The correlation between NO3− consumption and N2 production rates demonstrated that denitrification was the main process responsible for reactive N removal. Denitrification was stimulated by both NO3− availability in the Po River water and organic enrichment of sediment likely determined by salinity-induced flocculation of particulate organic load, and inhibited by increasing salinity, along the river–sea gradient. Overall, denitrification represented a sink of approximately 30% of the daily N loading transported in middle summer, highlighting a previously underestimated role of the Po River Delta.
Permanganate/Bisulfite Pre-Oxidation of Natural Organic Matter Enhances Nitrogenous Disinfection By-Products Formation during Subsequent Chlorination
Authors: He Shu , Ren Nanqi
Published: February 2022

The permanganate/bisulfite (PM/BS) process is a novel oxidation process, which can degrade micropollutants within several seconds. As natural organic matter (NOM) ubiquitously exists in an aquatic environment, the PM/BS process will inevitably react with NOM, which may impact the disinfection-by-products (DBPs) formation during subsequent chlorination. This study investigated the effect of PM/BS pre-oxidation of NOM on DBP formation. It was found that TOC removal reached a plateau when the molar ratio of PM to BS was 1:5. Increasing ratios of PM to BS decreased the intensity and area of fluorescence spectroscopy. PM and BS doses, pre-oxidation time, pH of solutions and concentration of Br− impacted the formation potential of various DBPs. PM/BS pre-oxidation decreased the formation of TCM while increasing the yields of N-DBPs, thus increasing the risk of water quality. Calculated toxicity analysis showed that a general increase in CTI was observed with PM/BS pre-oxidation, indicating that PM/BS pre-oxidation had a negative effect on risk control of overall cytotoxicity. Although the PM/BS process could accelerate the degradation of micropollutants, the elevated DBPs formation, especially highly toxic N-DBPs, needs enough attention to control water-quality risk.
Dynamic Adsorption Characteristics of Phosphorus Using MBCQ
Authors: Liang Qihui , Fu Xinxi , Wang Ping , Li Xinxian , Zheng Peiyuan
Published: February 2022

Biochar is a new type of adsorption material with excellent performance, but it has some problems, such as light texture, poor sedimentation, and difficult recovery, which limits its practical application. In this study, biochar microspheres (MBCQ) were prepared by the sol–gel method using powdery biochar from Hydrocotyle vulgaris as raw material and sodium alginate as a granular carrier. Experiments were performed to investigate the dynamic adsorption characteristics of phosphorus by MBCQ in the adsorption column and the influences of particle size, initial phosphorus concentration, flow rate, and column height on the breakthrough curve. The results showed that the static adsorption properties of different particles varied and that 3-millimeter particles were optimal. The breakthrough time positively correlated with column height and negatively correlated with initial phosphorus concentration, flow rate, and particle size. Flow velocity significantly impacted breakthrough time and length of mass transfer. The bed depth/service time model accurately predicted the relationship between breakthrough times and column heights. When ct/c0 = 0.6, the average relative deviation between predicted and measured values was the lowest. The Thomas model described the MBCQ adsorption process of Ph (R2 > 0.95), which indicated that diffusion in MBCQ adsorption was not a rate-limiting step.
Medical Correction of Sleep Disorders and Dependence on Sleeping Pills and Sedatives
Authors: Тарасевич Е.В.
Published: February 2022

Нарушение сна - распространенная проблема, с которой сталкиваются люди любых возрастных категорий. Лечение расстройств сна проводится комплексно, включает назначение медикаментов разных групп, в том числе снотворных. Однако их самостоятельный бесконтрольный прием, неправильный выбор препарата, его доз, кратности и продолжительности применения провоцируют другую проблему - зависимость, которая развивается постепенно, от нескольких недель, месяцев до нескольких лет. Избавиться от зависимости самостоятельно очень сложно. Лечение, которое применяется при зависимости от седативных и снотворных средств, направлено на снятие абстинентного синдрома, постепенное сокращение дозы препарата, на фоне которого развилась зависимость; замещение лекарства на препарат, не вызывающий привыкания, например, противосудорожные препараты из группы габапентиноидов, которые положительно влияют на уменьшение тяжести расстройств сна и соматических симптомов. Прегабалин может быть рекомендован в качестве медикаментозной коррекции нарушений сна и зависимости от седативных и снотворных препаратов у пациентов в условиях первичной медицинской практики.

Sleep disorder is a common problem faced by people of all age categories. Treatment of sleep disorders is carried out comprehensively, including the prescription of medications of different groups, including sleeping pills. However, their independent uncontrolled intake, wrong choice of the drug, its doses, frequency and duration of use provoke other problems - dependence, which develops gradually, from several weeks, months to several years. Getting rid of addiction on one’s own is very difficult. The treatment, which is used for dependence on sedatives and hypnotics, is aimed at relieving withdrawal syndrome by gradually reducing the dose of the drug, on the background of which the dependence has developed; replacing the drug with another one that is not addictive, for example, anticonvulsants from the gabapentinoid group, which positively affects the reduction of the severity of sleep disorders and somatic symptoms. Pregabalin can be recommended for medical correction of sleep disorders and dependence on sedatives and hypnotics in patients in primary medical practice.
Partecipazione alle primarie dell'Unione
Authors: Cuturi Vittoria , Gozzo Simona , Sampugnaro Rossana , Tomaselli Verena
Published: February 2022

L’alto grado di mobilitazione è il vero elemento di novità e di interesse delle primarie dell’Unione. Se è vera l’ipotesi che esse abbiano coinvolto una quota di elettori, al di là delle capacità di mobilitazione delle strutture di partito e collaterali, è verosimile considerare l’elevata affluenza come espressione della volontà di ‘sentirsi parte’ di un progetto politico o quantomeno di manifestare approvazione verso questa nuova modalità di coinvolgimento. I non iscritti e i non attivisti hanno avuto, sicuramente, bisogno di un surplus di motivazione per sostenere i costi di una doppia partecipazione (alle primarie ed alle elezioni formali).

Nell’incertezza sul grado di affluenza alle primarie del 16 ottobre e nella convinzione che queste avrebbero coinvolto soprattutto gli elettori più attivi e a diverso titolo impegnati politicamente, abbiamo predisposto un questionario da somministrare all’uscita del seggio elettorale, dopo avere espletato tutte le procedure di voto. Le dimensioni prese in considerazione si possono associare sulla base di due interessi conoscitivi fondamentali: uno, relativo alle dimensioni qualitative e quantitative della partecipazione; l’altro, relativo alle motivazioni soggettive ed al significato attribuito alle primarie.

Scopo dell’indagine, con tutti i limiti derivanti da un progetto ambizioso e dall’utilizzo di una modalità di rilevazione poco controllabile, è stato quello di approfondire la conoscenza dei partecipanti alle primarie nazionali anche se, a giudizio di chi scrive, la tipologia di elettori emersa dal nostro lavoro di ricerca è, verosimilmente, solo in parte estensibile a primarie di livello inferiore dotate di una più elevata competitività, nella misura in cui sifronteggiano solo due candidati di peso più o meno pari. In questi casi, la motivazione a partecipare perde il contenuto solidaristico e le primarie recuperano il senso proprio di strumento di selezione del candidato.
Regionali 2005: l'Unione sfonda, la Casa delle Libertà ripara nel Lombardo-veneto. Si tratta di critical election?
Authors: Di Virgilio Aldo
Published: February 2022

Attese della vigilia e caratteristiche della proposta elettorale.

Quanto ha contato la partecipazione elettorale.

La competizione maggioritaria: i numeri di un esito omogeneo.

Il voto ai partiti: la rotta di Forza Italia, l'ambivalente risultato di Uniti nell'Ulivo.

Elezioni critiche.
Elezioni comunali 2003: ancoraggio locale del voto e dinamiche interne alle coalizioni
Authors: Di Virgilio Aldo
Published: February 2022

Le elezioni comunali del 2003 si sono svolte quasi tutte il 25-26 maggio (hanno fatto eccezione 7 comuni friulani compreso Udine, due comuni della provincia di Bolzano, un piccolo comune valdostano e poi ancora Viareggio e Rosarno che hanno votato in giugno) e hanno chiamato alle urne più di 4 milioni di elettori, per il rinnovo di 499 amministrazioni. Fra queste vi erano 10 comuni capoluogo di provincia (Brescia, Sondrio, Udine, Treviso, Vicenza, Massa, Pisa, Pescara, Messina, Ragusa) e 86 comuni con oltre 15.000 abitanti, concentrati in prevalenza nel Sud e in Sicilia.
In-situ synthesis of TiC/Ti-6Al-4V-ELI composite by laser
Authors: Ramasobane P , Mashinini PM , Masina B
Published: February 2022

Titanium-based alloys are reported to offer up to 50% strength to weight ratio. These lands titanium-based alloys as a preferred material over steel and nickel-base super-alloys, where strength and stiffness are required. Regardless titanium-based alloys are prone to losing strength and stiffness at elevated temperature applications such as jet engines. This prompted a need for titanium matrix to be braced with a material with superior properties, such as ceramic. In-situ synthesis with laser metal deposition (LMD) of Ti-6Al-4V-ELI braced with discontinuous particulates of TiC resulted in improved hardness and microstructure. It is reported that an increase in the feed rate of TiC during the LMD process directly increases the hardness of the TiC/Ti-6Al-4V-ELI composite and refine the grain size of Ti-6Al-4V-ELI. Various fabrication methods and properties of Ti-6Al-4V are well documented in the literature. This paper focuses on the effect of TiC on the microstructure and hardness of Ti-6Al-4V-ELI.
Towards predicting process parameters for selective laser melting of titanium alloys through the modelling of melt pool characteristics
Authors: Van Rhijn T , Du Preez W , Maringa M , Kouprianoff D
Published: February 2022

Various researchers have investigated the use of experimental melt pool characterization to speed up the optimisation process of selective laser melting parameters and found this to be possible. From their studies, it has become clear that the incorporation of modelling into this approach could provide efficient and predictable results that would minimise the experimental validation work required. This paper reports on progress made towards characterising the melt pool through simulation. The development of a numerical model is discussed. Subsequently, experimental validation of the numerical model is presented. This is done through a comparison of the simulation results with the experimentally determined cross-sectional geometry of single tracks created with various sets of process parameters. Melt pool size and shape are considered. Based on these results, it is concluded that using an identical simulation setup, verified simulation method, and verified material properties, it was possible to accurately determine the melt pool geometry for some, but not all process parameters.
Effect of different simulated metal dusting environments on austenitic Alloys 602CA and 800
Authors: Mulaudzi FML , Cornish LA , Slabbert GA , Moema SJ , Papo MJ
Published: February 2022

Metal dusting processes and associated filamentous carbon formation were studied on austenitic Alloys 602CA and 800 after exposure to 18.9%CO-79.1%H2-2%H2O and 25%CO-70%H2-5%H2O (vol.%) gas mixtures at 650°C. The alloys were studied by visual examination, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Alloy 602CA was more resistant to metal dusting than Alloy 800. SEM imaging of the surfaces showed that Alloy 800 suffered metal attack at 168 h, whereas Alloy 602CA suffered minor attack only after 336 h. Coke deposits increased on Alloy 800 with increased exposure, and there was little coke deposited on Alloys 602CA from after 336 h. Raman spectroscopy confirmed graphite by the characteristic D- and G-peaks.
First-principles study to explore the possibility of inducing martensitic transformation in ordered B2 TiRu phase by alloying with Pd
Authors: Ngobe BS , Phasha MJ , Mwamba IA
Published: February 2022

Density functional theory (DFT) based on the first-principles technique, CASTEP, was used to explore the possibility of inducing martensitic transformation (MT) in a stable B2 TiRu alloy by systematic introduction of palladium (Pd) on the ruthenium (Ru) site. The structural, mechanical and electronic properties of pure, as well as, Pd-doped TiRu were calculated. The elastic constants obtained show that the addition of Pd seems to induce MT in the ordered TiRu, as shown by mechanical instability (C΄= C11-C12 < 0) of the B2 phase against shear deformation at 0 K. This is an indication that B2 is likely to transform to low symmetry phases such as L10/B19/B19’. Moreover, the calculated total density of states (T-DOS) also indicated that the addition of Pd shifted the Fermi level (EF) from the centre of the pseudogap of the ordered pure TiRu towards the right (anti-bonding region), rendering the resulting B2 ternary phase unstable at certain Pd compositions higher than 10 atomic percent (at.%). The predicted induced martensitic transformation is one of the key characteristics of shape memory behaviour in B2 Ti-based alloys such as NiTi, TiPd and TiPt. Further work on the possible low temperature phases resulting from B2 Ti-Ru-Pd ternary alloys is underway.
Pengaruh Struktur Aktiva Dan Profitabilitas Terhadap Harga Saham
Authors: Rivandi Muhammad , Lasmidar Lasmidar
Published: February 2022

The stock price interpreted as the price formed from the interaction between the seller and the buyer of shares which is motivated by the expectation of company profits. This study aims to determine and analyze the effect of asset structure and profitability on stock prices. The data processed is secondary data from the annual reports of 11 food and beverage sub-sector manufacturing companies listed on the IDX in 2015-2019 which were taken through purposive sampling. The method used in this research is panel data regression analysis method using Eviews version 8.0. The results of this study indicate that: asset structure and profitability have a positive effect on stock prices
Faktor Fundamental Terhadap Tingkat Underpricing Perusahaan Yang Melakukan Initial Public Offering (IPO)
Authors: Muhani Muhani , Pramelia Nia Eka , Molina Molina
Published: February 2022

This study aims to find out the influence of debt to equity ratio, return on asset, return on equity and firm size on the level of underpricing in companies that conduct an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in Indonesia Stock Exchange period 2014-2019. The population in this study is all companies that conducted an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in Indonesia Stock Exchange period 2014-2019. Determination of the sample using a purposive sampling method through certain criteria in order to obtain a sample of 115 companies. The analysis method used in this study was multiple linear regression method. The results showed that: (1) debt to equity ratio has positive and insignificant effect on the level of underpricing; (2) return on asset has negative and significant effect on the level of underpricing; (3) return on equity has negative and insignificant effect on the level of underpricing; and (4) firm size has negative and significant effect on the level of underpricing.
Analisis Pengaruh Pembangunan Infrastruktur Transportasi Terhadap Produk Domestik Regional Bruto Kabupaten Way Kanan Provinsi Lampung
Authors: Febriansyah Febriansyah , Gautama Gustaf
Published: February 2022

The availability of inadequate and quality transportation infrastructure positively affects a region's gross domestic product (GRDP) to below. This study aims to analyze the influence of transportation infrastructure development, namely road infrastructure, seaport infrastructure and airport infrastructure on Way Kanan District GRDP. The research method used in this study is a quantitative method. The results of multiple regression calculations show that 1) the road infrastructure has a significant number of 0.010 below 0.05; meaning that the independent variable has a substantial effect on GRDP. 2) seaport infrastructure, the considerable amount is 0.309 above 0.05; saying that these variables have not significantly affected gross regional domestic products. 3) Airport infrastructure, a significant number of 0.093 above 0.05; it means that the variable has not changed the GRDP. While the contribution of the research is a reference in development policies, especially the development of transportation infrastructure to increase the GRDP of Way Kanan District.
Hubungan Paritas dengan Kejadian Preeklampsia Berat di RSUD Panembahan Senopati Bantul
Authors: Rospia Evi Diliana , Novidaswati Anita , Cahyaningtyas Dwi Kartika
Published: February 2022

Latar Belakang: Preeklampsia berhubungan dengan angka mortalitas dan morbiditas neonatal dan maternal yang tinggi, paritas merupakan salah satu factor resiko ibu hamil mengalami preeklampsia. Tujuan Penelitian: Tujuan penelitian ini adalah menganalisis hubungan paritas dengan kejadian preeklampsia berat di RSUD Panembahan Senopati Bantul. Metedologi: Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif menggunakan metode deskriptif korelasional dengan metode pendakatan case control, peneliti menggunakan data sekunder tahun 2020 di RSUD Panembahan Senopati Bantul. Sampel penelitian ini adalah ibu bersalin, pengambilan teknik simple random sampling didapatkan 160 ibu bersalin yang terbagi kedalam dua kelompok kasus yaitu 80 ibu bersalin mengalami preeklampsia berat pada saat hamil dan 80 ibu bersalin tidak mengalami preeklampsia berat pada saat hamil, kemudian secara retrospektif ditelusuri paritasnya. Analisa data menggunakan Chi Square untuk menguji hubungan paritas dan preeklampisa berat. Hasil: Hasil penelitian ini didapatkan tidak ada hubungan paritas dengan kejadian preeklampsia berat (p>0,005) di RSUD Panembahan Senopati Bantul. Kesimpulan: Faktor-faktor yang dapat mengalami PEB tidak hanya paritas beresiko, namun paritas tidak beresiko mengalami PEB, hal ini kemungkinan dipengaruhi oleh umur ibu < 20 tahun atau >35 thun, sosial ekonomi rendah atau faktor lain yang bisa memperberat terjadinya PEB seperti akses pelayanan antenatal care dan dukungan suami atau keluarga pada saat hamil. Hasil penelitian ini dapat dijadikan sumber refernsi bagi peneliti lainnya yang akan meneliti tentang preeklampsia berat.