bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-Learning Design for Older Adults in the United States
Authors: Sharpe Shelby L. , Elwood Susan A.
Published: September 2024

As global populations age, there is an urgent need to address the unique learning requirements of older adults in the context of e-learning. This study builds upon prior work to investigate the connections between older adults’ cognitive profiles, learning preferences, and attitudes toward technology in the United States. Through a survey of 203 U.S. adults aged 55 and above, data were collected on participant demographics, learning preferences, and attitudes towards technology. The results reveal a tech-savvy sample that is most comfortable with everyday applications and favors practical, visual learning approaches. Key findings include high levels of internet and smartphone adoption, varying confidence levels across different mobile applications, and strong preferences for step-by-step instructions, examples, and graphics in e-learning modules. This mixed-method study serves as a foundation for future research aimed at increasing the adoption and effectiveness of e-learning among older adults in the U.S. and globally, ultimately contributing to the overall quality of life and support for active-aging initiatives.
Living Conditions of Children with Disabilities in Rural Thailand: Factors Leading to Life Change through Interventions
Authors: Kumazawa Yukiko , Terada Kyoko , Satonaka Ayako , Wachi Michio , Kida Noriyuki
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to identify the characteristics and challenges faced by children with disabilities and their families living in rural Thailand, and understand the factors that bring changes in their lives through intervention. In a 2021 online survey on the quality of life of school-aged children with disabilities, approximately half of the respondents indicated that they were not enrolled in school. However, the factors responsible were not identified. Therefore, in 2023, we interviewed three children with disabilities in one of the target areas for the abovementioned survey to explore the correlation between the level of independence in the activities of daily living (ADL) and educational and rehabilitation opportunities. This study did not identify a clear correlation between the two factors. Furthermore, a hypothesis emerged that the changes in their lives are influenced more by environmental factors, especially personal factors such as social group awareness and attitudes, caregivers’ understanding and support, and individual relationships within the community. Further research is needed to develop environmental factor assessment tools for problem-solving in accordance with the regional characteristics of rural areas, assess the degree of functional independence of children with disabilities in daily life, and build regional support models.
Artificial Neural Network and Kriging Surrogate Model for Embodied Energy Optimization of Prestressed Slab Bridges
Authors: Yepes-Bellver Lorena , Brun-Izquierdo Alejandro , Alcalá Julián , Yepes Víctor
Published: September 2024

The main objective of this study is to assess and contrast the efficacy of distinct spatial prediction methods in a simulation aimed at optimizing the embodied energy during the construction of prestressed slab bridge decks. A literature review and cross-sectional analysis have identified crucial design parameters that directly affect the design and construction of bridge decks. This analysis determines the critical design variables to improve the deck’s energy efficiency, providing practical guidance for engineers and professionals in the field. The methods analyzed in this study are ordinary Kriging and a multilayer perceptron neural network. The methodology involves analyzing the predictive performance of both models through error analysis and assessing their ability to identify local optima on the response surface. The results show that both models generally overestimate the observed values. The Kriging model with second-order polynomials yields a 4% relative error at the local optimum, while the neural network achieves lower root mean square errors (RMSEs). Neither the Kriging model nor the neural network provides precise predictions but point to promising solution regions. Optimizing the response surface to find a local minimum is crucial. High slenderness ratios (around 1/28) and 40 MPa concrete grade are recommended to improve energy efficiency.
An Update on the Waste Management of the Amazonian Açaí Berry for the Civil Engineering Sector
Authors: Polidori Guillaume , Murer Sébastien , Beaumont Fabien , Lachi Mohammed , Bliard Christophe , Nait-Rabah Ouahcène , Bufalino Lina , Bogard Fabien
Published: September 2024

The rising demand for açaí berries in Amazonian Brazil and French Guiana generates a significant amount of waste, namely the fruit’s stone, which accounts for 80% of the dry fruit’s mass. Recently, various studies have explored the potential valorization of açaí waste in the civil engineering sector, including the functionalization of the fibers surrounding the stone and the multiphysics testing of composite materials based on açaí fibers and/or stones, treated or untreated. This literature review aims to provide an overview of the technology readiness levels (TRLs) of the existing techniques capable of reducing the environmental impact of both the cultivation and management of naturally occurring açaí. While the research to date is promising, it remains at the prototype stage, and the mass ratio of waste in composites, regardless of their type, limits addressing the underlying ecological problem of açaí waste processing. Further experimental investigations are required to improve the functionalization processes, enabling the use of higher proportions of fibers and/or stones in cementitious composites and their large-scale production.
The Influence of Sustainable Risk Management on the Implementation of Risk-Based Internal Auditing
Authors: Almgrashi Ahmed , Mujalli Abdulwahab
Published: September 2024

Risk management exerts a significant influence on the competitiveness of an organization and its operational processes. It presents opportunities for expansion, foresight, and the need to promote sustainability. Many organizations have executed comprehensive risk management processes. Moreover, internal audit has increasingly attracted managers’ attention, forming the basis of modern governance methods. The aim of this study is to examine, from the viewpoint of the agency, the impact of the role of internal auditors, training in risk management, and management support on risk management. Following this, the work examines risk management in terms of the risk-based auditing implementation that is performed by Saudi public organizations. This study encompassed 234 completed and therefore valid questionnaires from the manager and assistance of the internal audit department, internal auditors, accountants, and managers employed in Saudi public organizations. The data collected have been analyzed utilizing Smart Partial Least Squares (SmartPLS). This study’s findings confirmed that there is a significant association between the role of internal auditors in risk management, training in risk management, and between management support and risk management. There is also a significant association between risk management and the implementation of risk-based internal auditing. This study’s findings have significant ramifications for those in charge of public-sector organizations, and sustainability, aiming to enhance the dependability and trustworthiness of the internal audit process and other aspects of financial reports and audits in general. Currently, there is a dearth of published research on the factors that influence risk management and also on risk-based internal auditing. This study contributes to the emerging literature on this subject by examining Saudi public organizations; it also establishes empirical variables through a thorough review of relevant research. Conducted here is an empirical investigation that identifies the factors that affect risk management and then its influence on risk-based internal auditing implementation in the economic system of Saudi Arabia. By focusing on Saudi public organizations, this article highlights other countries that have similar systems of governance rules and procedures in their government-operated entities.
Research Progress in the Joint Remediation of Plants–Microbes–Soil for Heavy Metal-Contaminated Soil in Mining Areas: A Review
Authors: Li Hong , Wang Tao , Du Hongxia , Guo Pan , Wang Shufeng , Ma Ming
Published: September 2024

Plants growing in heavy metal (HM)-contaminated soil have evolved a special detoxification mechanism. The rhizosphere gathers many living substances and their secretions at the center of plant roots, which has a unique ecological remediation effect. It is of great significance to thoroughly understand the ecological process of rhizosphere pollution under heavy metals (HMs) stress and develop biotechnology for joint remediation using plants and their coexisting microbial systems according to the mechanism of rhizosphere stress. Microbes can weaken the toxicity of HM pollutants by transforming the existing forms or reducing the bioavailability in the rhizosphere. Microbes survive in the HM-polluted soils through the production of stress-resistant substances, the participation of proteins, and the expression of heavy metal resistance genes, which strengthens the resistance of plants. Moreover, microbes can improve the nutritional status of plants to improve plant resistance to HMs. Plants, in turn, provide a habitat for microbes to survive and reproduce, which greatly accelerates the process of bioremediation. Briefly, the combined remediation of soil HMs pollution by plants and microbes is a promising, green, and sustainable strategy. Here, we mainly elucidate the joint remediation mechanism of plant–microbe symbiosis and introduce the coping characteristics of plants, microbes, and their symbiotic system, hoping to provide a scientific basis for the remediation of HM-contaminated soil in mining areas and the sustainable development of the ecological environment.
Well-Being and Sustainable Utilization of Forest Environment with Diverse Vegetation Distributions
Authors: Gao Yu , Zhang Yingna , Zhang Weikang , Meng Huan , Zhang Zhi , Zhang Tong
Published: September 2024

Forest landscape space is the basic unit of forest landscape resources. Healthy forest landscape resources can not only improve the sustainable cycle of forest ecological service function, but also have a positive impact on human health and well-being. Evidence supports the view that the forest environment is beneficial to people’s health, and further discussion of the dose response between environmental attributes and physical and mental recovery has been widely carried out by scholars. As an important component of environmental attributes, it is necessary to clarify the relationship between vegetation distribution and users’ health in order to better plan, design, and utilize forest environmental resources. This study mainly used the virtual immersive forest environment video in VR, and used the difference test in SPSS 23.0 to clarify whether the distribution of vegetation in the forest environment will affect the physiological and psychological recovery effect of users. The main results are as follows: (1) Experiencing the forest environment can promote users’ physiological and psychological health, and its recovery effect is significantly better than the indoor environment (p < 0.05). (2) The distribution of vegetation in the forest environment will affect users’ physiological and psychological recovery effect. Among them, in the cluster and randomly distributed forest environments, the relaxation and concentration of users can be improved mainly by alleviating their negative emotions. In the evenly distributed forest environment, users mainly achieve the purpose of relaxation by improving their vitality and positive emotions. These results show that the distribution of vegetation is one of the factors for the restoration of forest environment. In the future design and management of the forest environment, the health and well-being of users can be effectively enhanced by getting involved with the vegetation distribution in the site, aiming to provide a scientific basis for the promotion of the rehabilitation function of forest landscape space and its sustainable utilization, thus promoting the sustainable development of forest resources and improving people’s quality of life.
Analysis and Prediction of Atmospheric Environmental Quality Based on the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average Model (ARIMA Model) in Hunan Province, China
Authors: Gao Wenyuan , Xiao Tongjue , Zou Lin , Li Huan , Gu Shengbo
Published: September 2024

Based on the panel data of atmospheric environmental pollution in Hunan Province from 2016 to 2023, the autoregressive integrated moving average model (ARIMA) is introduced to evaluate and predict the current status of atmospheric environmental quality in Hunan Province of China, and the constructed ARIMA model has an excellent prediction effect on the atmospheric environmental quality in Hunan Province. The following conclusions are obtained through the prediction and analysis based on the ARIMA model: (1) the atmospheric environmental quality in Hunan Province shows a year-on-year improvement trend; (2) the ARIMA model prediction method is reliable and effective and can accurately analyze and predict the concentrations of air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, SO2, and CO) and atmospheric environmental quality, and the prediction results show that the outdoor air quality of Hunan Province will improve gradually each year from 2024 to 2028; (3) this study contributes a better understanding of the ambient air quality in Hunan Province during 2016–2023 and provides good forecasting results for air pollutants during the period of 2024–2028.
Surviving the Storm: The Vital Role of Entrepreneurs’ Network Ties and Recovering Capabilities in Supporting the Intention to Sustain Micro and Small Enterprises
Authors: Alshebami Ali Saleh
Published: September 2024

Micro and small enterprises (MSMEs) play a positive and significant role in developing economies by creating job opportunities and mitigating poverty; this necessitates their attention and focus, mainly during challenging times. Accordingly, this study explored the key factors contributing to enhancing entrepreneurial competency (EC) and the intention to maintain business continuity among MSMEs in Yemen during adverse times. A sample of 280 responses was collected from MSMEs operating diverse types of businesses in the capital of Yemen, Sanaa. The collected data were analysed using partial least squares–structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), which is considered suitable for this purpose. The data collection process included an online questionnaire and a physical visit to the business locations of the business owners. The findings of the study reported that entrepreneurs’ network ties (ENT), as well as recovering capability (RC), positively and significantly influence the EC of MSMEs in the context of the study. Additionally, EC positively and significantly influences business continuity intention (BCI). Finally, EC partially mediates the relationship between ENT, RC, and BCI. The study concludes by providing recommendations and implications for policymakers.
Experimental Optimization of the Propeller Turbine Performance Using the Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Velásquez Laura , Rubio-Clemente Ainhoa , Tobón Daniel , Botero Francisco , Arrieta Carlos , Chica Edwin
Published: September 2024

The growing global energy demand necessitates a shift towards sustainable sources to mitigate environmental issues and ensure energy security. This work explores the design and optimization of propeller-type hydrokinetic turbines to efficiently harness renewable energy from water currents. Through experimental testing and regression modeling, the research aimed to maximize the power coefficient (Cp) by determining the optimal values of the number of blades (Z) and the turbine diameter to hub diameter ratio (d/D). By correcting for experimental biases, the study elucidates the importance of factors such as the blockage ratio and turbine configuration on its performance. A second-order polynomial regression model, which was validated through analysis of variance, determined that when Z and d/D were set at 4 and 0.15, respectively, the optimal value for Cp was 53.62%. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing hydrokinetic turbine efficiency, contributing to the advancement of renewable energy technologies.
Investigating Consumer Attitudes and Market Trading of Edible Marine Invasive Alien Species in the Greek Seafood Market
Authors: Sidiropoulou Nikoletta , Doumpas Nikolaos , Perrakis Emmanouil , Tsianis Dimitrios , Giovos Ioannis , Moutopoulos Dimitrios K.
Published: September 2024

Marine invasive alien species (IAS) are spreading in the Mediterranean Sea, altering species composition and reshaping marine ecosystems. The study explores consumer attitudes towards the consumption of marine invasive alien species (IAS), particularly lionfish and Atlantic blue crab, in the Greek seafood market. These species are considered a threat to marine biodiversity but are also being considered for commercial seafood to mitigate their ecological impact. Through surveys of consumers and seafood retailers, the research finds that while Greek consumers show a positive attitude towards consuming these species, they often lack awareness of their ecological impact. Retailers see potential in promoting these invasive species, with freshness, hygiene, and poison concerns being the most important factors for consumers when purchasing seafood. In general, there is a need for better public education regarding the ecological and health impacts of IAS consumption. Factors that could increase consumption include recommendations from seafood retailers, promotion by TV cooking shows, and quality certifications. The study suggests that aligning consumer education with conservation goals could help control the spread of IAS while supporting local fisheries.
The Classification of Hotels in the Context of Sustainable Development Factors: A Case Study of Public Policy in the European Union and Poland
Authors: Wszendybył-Skulska Ewa , Panasiuk Aleksander
Published: September 2024

With the growing awareness among entrepreneurs and consumers within the tourism industry regarding the field of sustainable development, it seems necessary to base hotel classification systems on an integrated approach to management quality, including the fulfillment of ecological and environmental criteria. However, this topic has yet to be recognized in the literature, especially concerning the European market. Therefore, this article aims to fill this research gap and indicate how environmental standards have been implemented in the European system of hotel classification—Hotelstars Union (HSU)—and that in force in Poland. With regard to these systems, the differences in the classification criteria taken into account by the certifying organizations in the European Union (EU) and the administrative hotel categorization system in Poland are pointed out. Particular emphasis is placed on the criteria related to environmental management in the hotel industry. The criteria related to environmental management were identified through an analysis of the criteria of eight environmental management systems that are applicable to the contemporary hotel industry. The results of this research prove that, even though the HSU system takes the principles of sustainable development into account to a much greater extent than the Polish system, its primary weakness is that most of its criteria related to the environment are optional. In addition, the optional criteria have higher weights than the obligatory ones. In turn, the Polish classification system makes very little reference to environmental standards. Moreover, it is not detailed, and the assessment criteria are not up to date. Therefore, it is recommended that a greater number of environmental criteria be included in the next update of the HSU system, which should be obligatory for hotels to meet. In addition, the sustainability criteria included in the HSU system should be adapted to the policy system aimed at the hotel industry in Poland and other EU countries.
Leveraging Educational Technology in Liberal Arts Dance Sports: Exploring Effectiveness and Sustainable Application
Authors: Park Sunghae , Kim Yeonjae
Published: September 2024

This study explored the effectiveness and sustainable application of educational technology in a university liberal arts dance sports class. A qualitative case study was conducted with nine students enrolled in liberal arts physical education classes at S University in Seoul in 2023. It focused on how educational technology, including apps such as Pose & Tracking and Slopro, can enhance students’ understanding of dance movements, promote active discussion, and facilitate objective assessment. The findings indicate that the use of these technologies not only improved the students’ learning experiences by facilitating visualization and feedback but also supported collaborative learning and creative expression. This study highlights the potential of educational technology to enhance the quality of liberal arts physical education by making learning highly engaging and effective.
Gastronomic Identity Factors in the Function of Sustainable Gastronomy: A Case Study of Tourist Destinations in the Republic of Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Paunić Maja , Kalenjuk Pivarski Bojana , Tešanović Dragan , Novaković Dragana , Šmugović Stefan , Šarenac Nemanja , Ivanović Velibor , Mlinarević Predrag , Marjanović Jelena
Published: September 2024

Gastronomic identity is a crucial segment of sustainable gastronomy and its successful positioning in the tourism market. As such, it calls for the creation of a suitable SusGastroIdentity scale that would identify influential factors. The research investigated the opinions of the employees in catering establishments in two tourist destinations in the Balkans: Fruška Gora Mountain, a tourist area in the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina in Serbia, and Jahorina Mountain, a tourist area in the Republic of Srpska entity in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The study involved 606 participants, 66% of whom work in à la carte restaurants. Of these participants, 68% hold operational roles in hospitality establishments, and 58.3% have over 5 years of experience in the hospitality industry. After conducting a survey using a questionnaire and performing appropriate statistical analysis of the responses, four factors of gastronomic identity and sustainable gastronomy were defined: geographic and cultural characteristics of gastronomy, gastro-tourism events, economic aspects of business operations, and commercial aspects of business operations. The present research has shown that employees in hospitality and tourism perceive geographic and cultural characteristics and the economic aspects of business as the significant factors of gastronomic identity that affect both the sustainability of gastronomy in tourism and the tourist destination itself.
Factors Affecting Teachers’ Behavior of Innovative Teaching with Technology: Structural Equation Modelling
Authors: Sofwan Muhammad , Habibi Akhmad , Attar Razaz Waheeb , Alqahtani Turki Mesfer , Alahmari Sarah A. , Alhazmi Amal Hassan
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to investigate factors that predict Indonesian primary school teachers’ behavior of innovative teaching with technology (BITT). A survey instrument was adapted and validated through content validity, a pilot test, and a measurement model in partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). We obtained data from 868 primary school teachers, analyzed through a structural model in PLS-SEM and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) in SPSS. The structural model was computed with several statistical reports, including the path coefficient (β), effect sizes (f2), coefficient of determination (R2), and predictive relevance (Q2). MANOVA results informed t and p values. Findings indicated that four out of six hypotheses significantly predicted primary Indonesian teachers’ BITT. The most substantial relationship emerged between group learning and BITT. Meanwhile, the weakest correlation was between innovative culture and BITT. Two insignificant predictors of BITT were job autonomy and innovation compatibility. Most variables showed insignificant differences based on gender. However, some variables, such as benefits of innovation, innovation compatibility, innovative culture, group cohesion, and BITT, varied significantly based on location. The study may help teachers and policymakers understand BITT elements that encourage primary school teachers to use technology creatively.
Effect of the Organizational Model of the Subject of Activities in the Natural Environment on Students’ Satisfaction and Learning
Authors: Gómez-Barrios Virginia , Mediavilla-Saldaña Lázaro , Gómez-Encinas Vicente , Salinero Juan José
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to identify the most suitable organizational model for teaching the university subject of Outdoor Activities in relation to learning acquisition and satisfaction. For this purpose, four models were designed, some of which were dominated by traditional education and others by innovative education. The data collection instruments were the Spanish version of the Physical Education of the Sport Satisfaction Instrument, adapted to the university context, and the questionnaire on the contents of the subject designed ad hoc. Data collection was carried out before and after the intervention with a total of 125 students. For data analysis, an ANCOVA was performed. The results showed that there were significant differences in satisfaction between groups (p = 0.029), but not in the boredom scale (p = 0.109). With regard to acquisition of learning between groups, there were significant differences (p = 0.005) in the overall grade of the subject. There were also significant differences in the scores for content taught differently depending on the group (p = 0.003), with a higher score in the most innovative group, the intensive-continuous group, compared to the fractioned (p = 0.005) and classic groups (p = 0.015). It is concluded that there is a positive effect between direct and continuous contact with nature, both in the acquisition of learning and in student satisfaction, with the most innovative model obtaining the best results of the study.
A Moderated Mediation Model of Entrepreneurship Education, Competence, and Environmental Dynamics on Entrepreneurial Performance
Authors: Liu Feng , Yang Guimei , Singhdong Putthiwat
Published: September 2024

This study explores the relationship between entrepreneurship education, entrepreneurial competence, and entrepreneurial performance, focusing on the moderating role of environmental dynamics under conditions of high and low environmental dynamics. Using SPSS 21.0 and Smart PLS 4.0 software, this quantitative research analyzed survey data from 424 college students in China who have started their own businesses. The results indicate that entrepreneurship education has a significant positive impact on entrepreneurial performance. Furthermore, environmental dynamics moderate the indirect effect of entrepreneurship education on entrepreneurial performance through entrepreneurial competence, with the indirect effect being stronger when environmental dynamics are high. The study also underscores the need for the sustainable development of entrepreneurship education, ensuring that educational programs evolve continuously to meet the changing demands of entrepreneurial environments. The findings highlight the importance of entrepreneurship education in fostering entrepreneurial competence and enhancing entrepreneurial performance. However, due to the cross-sectional design and self-reported nature of the data, the ability to draw causal inferences is limited. Future research should adopt longitudinal designs and objective performance measures to further investigate these relationships.
Heritage Tourism Development Should Take Care of Industrial Heritage Protection: A Study on the Development Strategy of Industrial Heritage Tourism in Nanjing
Authors: Wang Hechi , Ge Jianwei , Chen Xinxin , Zhou Qi , Huang Kehao
Published: September 2024

The tourism development of industrial heritage is an effective way to activate cultural heritage and can provide new solutions for the renewal and protection of industrial heritage. This study focuses on the industrial heritage in Nanjing, aiming to explore its spatial distribution pattern, tourism development strategy, and sustainable development model. This study adopts a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. First, relevant information on 93 sites of industrial heritage type historic buildings in Nanjing is collected. Secondly, ArcGIS was used to visualize the evolution of industrial buildings and the spatial distribution of industrial heritage type historic buildings. Finally, the spatial analysis tools of ArcGIS and the accessibility analysis method in space syntax theory are superimposed to comprehensively analyze the spatial distribution pattern and traffic accessibility characteristics of Nanjing’s industrial heritage. The research results propose a specific plan to promote the value transformation of industrial heritage through tourism: based on the spatial distribution characteristics of Nanjing’s industrial heritage along the water system and traffic arteries, a tourist route of “multi-point, two-axis, one-center” is planned; the tourism development strategy of “point protrusion, linear links, and surface darning” is implemented; and a sustainable development model under the guidance of low-carbon environmental protection goals is explored. This study provides a reference for the protective development of industrial heritage and the expansion of tourism and opens up a new perspective for the regeneration and planning of other urban heritage.
New Processing Technique of Jacobian Elliptic Equation and Its Application to the (3+1)-Dimensional Modified Korteweg de Vries–Zakharov–Kuznetsov Equation
Authors: Wu Guojiang , Guo Yong , Yu Yanlin
Published: September 2024

This article introduces two kinds of processing techniques to solve Jacobian elliptic equations and obtain rich periodic wave solutions. Then, the equation was used as an auxiliary equation to solve the (3+1)-dimensional modified Korteweg de Vries–Zakharov–Kuznetsov (mKDV-ZK) equation. Combined with the mapping method, a large number of new types of exact periodic wave solutions were obtained, many of which were rarely found in previous research. Numerical simulations have demonstrated the evolution of various periodic waves in (3+1)-dimensional mKDV-ZK. The solutions and wave phenomena obtained in this article will help expand our understanding of the equation.
Three Duopoly Game-Theoretic Models for the Smart Grid Demand Response Management Problem
Authors: Belhaiza Slim
Published: September 2024

Demand response management (DRM) significantly influences the prospective advancement of electricity smart grids. This paper introduces three distinct game-theoretic duopoly models for the smart grid demand response management problem. It delineates several rational assumptions regarding the model variables, functions, and parameters. The first model adopts a Cournot duopoly form, offering a unique closed-form equilibrium solution. The second model adopts a Stackelberg duopoly structure, also providing a unique closed-form equilibrium solution. Following a comparison of the economic viability of the two model equilibria and an assessment of their sensitivity to parametric changes, the paper proposes a third model with a Cartel structure and discusses its advantages over the earlier models. Finally, the paper examines how demand forecasting affects the equilibrium quantities and pricing solutions of each model.
Education in Transition: Adapting and Thriving in a Post-COVID World
Authors: Alkhnbashi Omer S. , Mohammad Rasheed , Bamasoud Doaa M.
Published: September 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted traditional education systems worldwide, prompting a rapid shift to online platforms and the emergence of innovative teaching strategies. This paper critically reviews the extensive body of research on post-COVID-19 education, focusing on the practical and feasible solutions proposed to maintain and enhance educational continuity. The review categorizes and examines studies on various approaches, including simulation-based training, project-based learning, and hybrid models, highlighting their effectiveness during and after the pandemic. Special attention is given to the role of information technology, the challenges faced by educators and students, and the importance of mental health support in the new educational landscape. The findings suggest that while digital tools such as virtual reality and 3D environments show promise, their implementation remains limited, particularly in resource-constrained settings. The study also identifies a significant gap in empirical research on these innovations in the post-pandemic era. Furthermore, the paper highlights the need for systemic changes in curriculum design, educator training, and policy development to address the long-term impacts of the pandemic on education. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, offering insights into how educational institutions can better prepare for future crises.
An Integrated Framework for Estimating Origins and Destinations of Multimodal Multi-Commodity Import and Export Flows Using Multisource Data
Authors: Safdar Muhammad , Zhong Ming , Ren Zhi , Hunt John Douglas
Published: September 2024

Estimating origin-destination (OD) demand is integral to urban, regional, and national freight transportation planning and modeling systems. However, in developing countries, existing studies reveal significant inconsistencies between OD estimates for domestic and import/export commodities derived from interregional input-output (IO) tables and those from regional IO tables. These discrepancies create a significant challenge for properly forecasting the freight demand of regional/interregional multimodal transportation networks. To this end, this study proposes a novel integrated framework for estimating regional and international (import/export) OD freight flows for a set of key commodities that dominate long-distance transportation. The framework leverages multisource data and follows a three-step process. First, a spatial economic model, PECAS activity allocation, is developed to estimate freight OD demand within a specific region. Second, the international (import and export) freight OD is estimated from different zones to foreign countries, including major import and export nodes such as international seaports, using a gravity model with the zone-pair friction obtained from a multimodal transportation model. Third, the OD matrices are converted from monetary value to tonnage and assigned to the multimodal transportation super network using the incremental freight assignment method. The model is calibrated using traffic counts of the highways, railways, and port throughput data. The proposed framework is tested through a case study of the Province of Jiangxi, which is crucial for forecasting freight demand before the planning, design, and operation of the Ganyue Canal. The predictive analytics of the proposed framework demonstrated high validity, where the goodness-of-fit (R2) between the observed and estimated freight flows on specific links for each of the three transport modes was higher than 0.9. This indirectly confirms the efficacy of the model in predicting freight OD demands. The proposed framework is adaptable to other regions and aids practitioners in providing a comprehensive tool for informed decision-making in freight demand modeling.
Guest Editorial on 10th Anniversary of Technologies—Recent Advances and Perspectives
Authors: Gupta Manoj , Wong Eugene , Jeon Gwanggil
Published: September 2024

In 2022, Technologies (ISSN: 2227-7080) celebrated its 10th anniversary [...]
Comparing Optical and Custom IoT Inertial Motion Capture Systems for Manual Material Handling Risk Assessment Using the NIOSH Lifting Index
Authors: Gutierrez Manuel , Gomez Britam , Retamal Gustavo , Peña Guisella , Germany Enrique , Ortega-Bastidas Paulina , Aqueveque Pablo
Published: September 2024

Assessing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the workplace is vital for improving worker health and safety, reducing costs, and increasing productivity. Traditional hazard identification methods are often inefficient, particularly in detecting complex risks, which may compromise risk management. This study introduces a semi-automatic platform using two motion capture systems—an optical system (OptiTrack®) and a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)-based system with inertial measurement units (IMUs), developed at the Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, Universidad de Concepción, Chile. These systems, tested on 20 participants (10 women and 10 men, aged 30 ± 9 years without MSDs), facilitate risk assessments via the digitized NIOSH Index method. Analysis of ergonomically significant variables (H, V, A, D) and calculation of the RWL and LI showed both systems aligned with expected ergonomic standards, although significant differences were observed in vertical displacement (V), horizontal displacement (H), and trunk rotation (A), indicating areas for improvement, especially for the BLE system. The BLE Inertial MoCap system recorded mean heights of 33.87 cm (SD = 4.46) and vertical displacements of 13.17 cm (SD = 4.75), while OptiTrack® recorded mean heights of 30.12 cm (SD = 2.91) and vertical displacements of 15.67 cm (SD = 2.63). Despite the greater variability observed in BLE system measurements, both systems accurately captured vertical vertical absolute displacement (D), with means of 32.05 cm (SD = 7.36) for BLE and 31.80 cm (SD = 3.25) for OptiTrack®. Performance analysis showed high precision for both systems, with BLE and OptiTrack® achieving precision rates of 98.5%. Sensitivity, however, was lower for BLE (97.5%) compared to OptiTrack® (98.7%). The BLE system’s F1 score was 97.9%, while OptiTrack® scored 98.6%, indicating both systems can reliably assess ergonomic risk. These findings demonstrate the potential of using BLE-based IMUs for workplace ergonomics, though further improvements in measurement accuracy are needed. The user-friendly BLE-based system and semi-automatic platform significantly enhance risk assessment efficiency across various workplace environments.
Removal of Lead Cations by Novel Organoclays Derived from Bentonite and Amphoteric and Nonionic Surfactants
Authors: Gertsen Maria , Perelomov Leonid , Kharkova Anna , Burachevskaya Marina , Hemalatha S. , Atroshchenko Yury
Published: September 2024

For many decades, natural and modified clay minerals have been used as adsorbents to clean up aquatic and soil ecosystems contaminated with organic and inorganic pollutants. In this study, organoclays based on bentonite and various amphoteric and nonionic surfactants were synthesized and tested as effective sorbents for lead ions. The maximum values of R were obtained when describing the sorption processes using the Langmuir model, which ranged from 0.97 to 0.99. The adsorption of lead ions by these organoclays was investigated using different sorption models including the Langmuir, Freundlich, and BET. It was found that, according to the values of limiting adsorption to the Langmuir equation, the synthesized organoclays formed an increasing series: organoclay with cocamide diethanolamine < bentonite < organoclay with lauramine oxide < organoclay with sodium cocoiminodipropionate < organoclay with disodium cocoamphodiacetate < organoclay with alkyl polyglucoside. The Gibbs energy for all of the analyzed samples was calculated and found to be negative, indicating the spontaneity of the cation adsorption process in the forward direction. The maximum value of the adsorption capacity of lead cations on organoclay-based bentonite with alkyl polyglucoside was 1.49 ± 0.05 mmol/g according to the Langmuir model, and 0.523 ± 0.003 mmol/g as determined by the BET model. In the process of modifying bentonite, there was an increase in negative values of the zeta potential for organoclays compared to the initial mineral, which clearly enhanced their electrostatic interactions with the positively charged lead ions. It was hypothesized, based on the physicochemical principles, that exchange adsorption is the main mechanism for lead absorption. Based on chemical approaches, organoclays based on amphoteric surfactants absorb lead mainly through the mechanisms of electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, and complexation as well as the formation of insoluble precipitates. Organoclays based on nonionic surfactants, on the other hand, absorb lead through mechanisms of complexation (including chelation) and the formation of insoluble chemical precipitates. The comparison of isotherms from different models allows us to find the most accurate match between the model and the experimental data, and to better understand the nature of the processes involved.
Enhanced Adsorption of Cadmium by a Covalent Organic Framework-Modified Biochar in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Hou Yanwei , Lin Shanna , Fan Jiajun , Zhang Youchi , Jing Guohua , Cai Chao
Published: September 2024

In the environmental field, the advancement of new high-efficiency heavy metal adsorption materials remains a continuous research focus. A novel composite, covalent organic framework-modified biochar (RH-COF), was fabricated via an in-situ polymerization approach in this study. The COF-modified biochar was characterized by elemental analysis, BET analysis, SEM, FT-IR, and XPS. The nitrogen and oxygen content in the modified material increased significantly from 0.96% and 15.50% to 5.40% and 24.08%, respectively, indicating the addition of a substantial number of nitrogen- and oxygen-containing functional groups to the RH-COF surface, thereby enhancing its adsorption capacity for Cd from 4.20 mg g−1 to 58.62 mg g−1, representing an approximately fourteen-fold increase. Both the pseudo-second-order model and the Langmuir model were suitable for describing the kinetics and isotherms of Cd2+ adsorption onto RH-COF. The adsorption performance of Cd2+ by RH-COF showed minimal sensitivity to pH values between 4.0 and 8.0, but could be slightly influenced by ionic strength. Mechanistic analysis showed that the Cd2+ adsorption on RH-COF was dominated by surface complexation and chelation, alongside electrostatic adsorption, surface precipitation, and Cπ–cation interactions. Overall, these findings suggest that the synthesis of COF-biochar composite may serve as a promising remediation strategy while providing scientific support for applying COF in environmental materials.
Presence of Ochratoxin A Residues in Blood Serum of Slaughtered Pigs in Greece
Authors: Vlachou Mikela , Pexara Andreana , Solomakos Nikolaos , Govaris Alexander , Palaiogiannis Dimitrios , Athanasiadis Vassilis , Lalas Stavros I.
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to assess the presence of ochratoxin A (OTA) residues in the blood serum of slaughtered pigs in Greece. Samples were obtained from 1695 healthy slaughtered pigs originating from 113 different farms located in 21 geographic regional units in 8 different geographic regions of Greece and were analyzed using an immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detector (HPLC-FD). OTA contamination assessment showed that 782 (46.1%) and 1233 (72.7%) samples were OTA-positive, with a concentration range of 0.20–5.38 μg/L and 0.15–5.96 µg/L according to ELISA and HPLC-FD analysis, respectively. Also, 88 (77.9%) and 108 (95.6%) of farms were found to be OTA-positive by ELISA and HPLC-FD analysis, respectively. The highest OTA serum positivity rate (>98%) and toxin level (5.96 µg/L) determined by HPLC-FD were observed in the Thessaly region, whereas a high prevalence of up to 100% (range 75–100%) was found on farms in the Crete Island region. The detection of OTA in the serum of slaughtered pigs in different regions in Greece poses a risk for animal and human health and highlights the need for constant OTA monitoring in the swine industry and pork meat production facilities.
Artificial Intelligence in Infectious Disease Clinical Practice: An Overview of Gaps, Opportunities, and Limitations
Authors: Sarantopoulos Andreas , Mastori Kourmpani Christina , Yokarasa Atshaya Lily , Makamanzi Chiedza , Antoniou Polyna , Spernovasilis Nikolaos , Tsioutis Constantinos
Published: September 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical medicine marks a revolutionary shift, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, therapeutic efficacy, and overall healthcare delivery. This review explores the current uses, benefits, limitations, and future applications of AI in infectious diseases, highlighting its specific applications in diagnostics, clinical decision making, and personalized medicine. The transformative potential of AI in infectious diseases is emphasized, addressing gaps in rapid and accurate disease diagnosis, surveillance, outbreak detection and management, and treatment optimization. Despite these advancements, significant limitations and challenges exist, including data privacy concerns, potential biases, and ethical dilemmas. The article underscores the need for stringent regulatory frameworks and inclusive databases to ensure equitable, ethical, and effective AI utilization in the field of clinical and laboratory infectious diseases.
Constraining the Initial Mass Function via Stellar Transients
Authors: Gabrielli Francesco , Boco Lumen , Ghirlanda Giancarlo , Salafia Om Sharan , Salvaterra Ruben , Spera Mario , Lapi Andrea
Published: September 2024

The stellar initial mass function (IMF) represents a fundamental quantity in astrophysics and cosmology describing the mass distribution of stars from low mass all the way up to massive and very massive stars. It is intimately linked to a wide variety of topics, including stellar and binary evolution, galaxy evolution, chemical enrichment, and cosmological reionization. Nonetheless, the IMF still remains highly uncertain. In this work, we aim to determine the IMF with a novel approach based on the observed rates of transients of stellar origin. We parametrize the IMF with a simple but flexible Larson shape, and insert it into a parametric model for the cosmic UV luminosity density, local stellar mass density, type Ia supernova (SN Ia), core-collapse supernova (CCSN), and long gamma-ray burst (LGRB) rates as a function of redshift. We constrain our free parameters by matching the model predictions to a set of empirical determinations for the corresponding quantities via a Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo method. Remarkably, we are able to provide an independent IMF determination with a characteristic mass mc=0.10−0.08+0.24M⊙ and high-mass slope ξ=−2.53−0.27+0.24 that are in accordance with the widely used IMF parameterizations (e.g., Salpeter, Kroupa, Chabrier). Moreover, the adoption of an up-to-date recipe for the cosmic metallicity evolution allows us to constrain the maximum metallicity of LGRB progenitors to Zmax=0.12−0.05+0.29Z⊙. We also find which progenitor fraction actually leads to SN Ia or LGRB emission (e.g., due to binary interaction or jet-launching conditions), put constraints on the CCSN and LGRB progenitor mass ranges, and test the IMF universality. These results show the potential of this kind of approach for studying the IMF, its putative evolution with the galactic environment and cosmic history, and the properties of SN Ia, CCSN, and LGRB progenitors, especially considering the wealth of data incoming in the future.