bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Dynamic Agrivoltaic System and Cultivation: Viability, Yields and Qualitative Assessment of Medical Plants
Authors: Disciglio Grazia , Frabboni Laura , Tarantino Annalisa , Stasi Antonio
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the comparative cultivation of six medicinal plant species (sage, oregano, rosemary, lavender, thyme, and mint) in a dynamic agrivoltaic (AV) system and a neighboring control plot exposed to full sun (referred to as “T”). Specifically, within the dynamic AV system, two distinct plot areas on the ground were identified due to the rotation of the panels: one consistently in the shade of the solar panels (UP), and another alternately in shade and sunlight (BP). The study involved the measurement of solar radiation, air temperature, and infrared leaf temperature during crop growth in these designated plots. Additionally, a weed survey was conducted at harvest time. The findings revealed that solar radiation, air temperature, infrared leaf temperature, and weed coverage were notably lower in the UP plot compared to both the BP and T plots. Furthermore, the yield of essential oils in sage, thyme, mint, and rosemary plants was higher in both the UP and BP plots than in the T plot. Hence, these factors seemingly positively impacted the performance of specific medicinal crops within the dynamic AV system. This information holds significance for producers and processors concerning crop quality.
Shrinkage Behavior of Stabilized Earth Bricks Reinforced with Wheat and Barley Straw
Authors: Ashour Taha , Korjenic Azra , Abdelfattah Ahmed , Sesto Eldira , Wu Wei
Published: November 2023

Due to its ecological and financial benefits, earth building has gained global attention, with earth bricks being extensively used. Shrinkage and crack development have a considerable impact on the performance and quality of earth bricks. This study employs laboratory experiments to examine the shrinkage behavior of earth bricks reinforced with wheat and barley straw. In addition to this, the impact of cement and gypsum additives is examined. The obtained results indicate that increased fiber content reduces crack formation effectively. However, higher levels of cohesive soil have been shown to have a negative influence on shrinkage behavior. In general, higher fiber contents contribute to the improvement of earth brick performance. These findings offer useful insights for improving the composition and characteristics of reinforced earth bricks, resulting in enhanced performance and quality in sustainable construction practices.
Soil Hydrological Properties’ Response to Long-Term Grazing on a Desert Steppe in Inner Mongolia
Authors: Lei Lei , Zheng Jiahua , Li Shaoyu , Yang Lishan , Wang Wenqiong , Zhang Feng , Zhang Bin
Published: November 2023

Soil hydrological properties play an important role in maintaining ecosystem functions. It is critical to understand how those properties respond to human disturbance especially in semi-arid areas. In the present study, we investigated the effects of different long-term grazing intensities (no grazing, light grazing, moderate grazing, and heavy grazing) on eight parameters that related to soil hydrological properties in different soil depths based on a grazing platform that was established in 2004 on a desert steppe in Inner Mongolia. The relationships among different parameters and between hydrological and chemical properties were also analyzed. The results show that grazing intensity, soil depth, and their interaction all have significant effects on soil moisture content, saturation capacity, field capacity, and bulk density. At different soil depths (0–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm), soil bulk density was negatively correlated with saturation capacity, capillary capacity, and non-capillary porosity but positively correlated with field capacity. Furthermore, we found that field capacity and soil moisture content were positively correlated but non-capillary soil porosity was negatively correlated with most soil nutrients. Our results indicate that overgrazing has detrimental effects on soil hydrological properties which may further negatively affect soil nutrient content. Light grazing may be an optimal grazing intensity on this semi-arid steppe with respect to soil hydrological properties.
A Projection of Environmental Impact of a Low Emission Zone Planned in Warsaw, Poland
Authors: Holnicki Piotr , Kałuszko Andrzej , Nahorski Zbigniew
Published: November 2023

A low emission zone (LEZ) is a mechanism for reducing the negative impact of traffic pollution on an urban environment, where exhaust emissions are strictly regulated to meet certain environmental criteria. Such solutions increasing the sustainability of the urban environment are gaining popularity, especially in Western European agglomerations, where there are currently more than 300 zones, mainly in Italy and Germany. Thus far, there are no LEZs in Eastern and Central European countries, but Warsaw authorities plan to launch an LEZ in 2024. According to the ongoing project, the zone is to be implemented gradually, in five stages between 2024 and 2032, and the emission criteria will be tightened accordingly. The gradually reduced emissions of NOX and PM were utilized as the input dataset in the regional CALPUFF model predictions to calculate the concentrations of these main traffic-induced pollutants within the zone. The direct effect is a reduction in air pollution in the urban center, which is the area most exposed to pollution risk due to heavy traffic. Computer simulations reveal that implementation of the zone in Warsaw will result in a significant reduction in NOX concentrations within the LEZ, such that its mean concentration in the zone becomes comparable to the rest of the conurbation. However, it will bring only a slight reduction in PM2.5 concentrations. This results from the long-standing dominance of coal combustion in the Polish economy. This also applies to the urban municipal sector, being clearly predominant over the road traffic contribution. Balance can be achieved once the de-carbonization process has been completed.
Does AI Application Matter in Promoting Carbon Productivity? Fresh Evidence from 30 Provinces in China
Authors: Feng Shan , Liu Shuguang
Published: November 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an important force leading to a new round of scientific and technological revolution, as well as promoting the realization of the dual carbon goals of China. Determining how to take advantage of AI during the green industrial transformation and propelling participation in global value chains are of great importance to China. In this paper, we carefully study the influencing mechanism. The Batik Variable Method is then applied to measure robot penetration in the industries across 30 provinces in China from 2010 to 2019. Furthermore, intermediate and threshold effect models are constructed using three crucial variables. The estimates reveal critical findings: firstly, the application of AI has a significant positive effect on carbon productivity, and this conclusion is still valid after a series of robustness tests. Secondly, a heterogeneity test shows that, compared with the central and western regions, AI application in the east has a stronger and more significant effect on carbon productivity over time. Thirdly, the optimization of human capital and improvement of innovation level both play partial mediating roles in this process, and manufacturing agglomeration has a nonlinear adjustment effect on the positive relationship between AI application and carbon productivity. The conclusions of this study provide references for further optimizing and expanding the application scenarios of AI, thereby contributing to high-quality economic development in China.
Food for Thoughts: The District Approach to Rural Areas Development—A Case Study in Campania
Authors: Iovino Giorgia , Guadagno Eleonora , Bagnoli Daniele
Published: November 2023

The district approach has become increasingly important for the analysis and planning of local agro-food systems. In this paper, we analyse the role and potential of Italian food districts, spaces of governance where a plurality of actors share practices and knowledge and jointly elaborate local development strategies. After a first section aimed at illustrating the theoretical background and the regulatory framework, we examine the food districts of Benevento, an inland Province of the Campania Region, in order to: (i) reconstruct the characteristics, actors and strategies of these local food systems and critically discuss the criteria used for their creation and spatialisation; (ii) investigate the contribution that districts can make to the goals of social cohesion and sustainability. As for the methods, we use a mixed approach that integrates documentary analysis and geostatistical information with a qualitative survey (based on semi-structured interviews and questionnaires) to explore the governance model adopted and the degree of participation and interest generated among stakeholders. We conclude that the district approach can, under certain conditions, be a key tool for territorial enhancement, especially for those internal areas marked by depopulation and economic decline.
Study of Key Parameters and Uncertainties Based on Integrated Energy Systems Coupled with Renewable Energy Sources
Authors: Liu Xin , Ji Yuzhang , Guo Ziyang , Yuan Shufu , Chen Yongxu , Zhang Weijun
Published: November 2023

The extensive research and application of integrated energy systems (IES) coupled with renewable energy sources have played a pivotal role in alleviating the problems of fossil energy shortage and promoting sustainability to a certain extent. However, the uncertainty of photovoltaic (PV) and wind power in IES increases the difficulty of maintaining stable system operation, posing a challenge to long-term sustainability. In addition, the capacity configuration of each device in IES and the operation strategy under different conditions will also significantly impact the operation cost and expected results of the system, influencing its overall sustainability. To address the above problems, this paper establishes an optimization model based on linear programming to optimize the equipment capacity and operation strategy of IES coupled with PV and wind power with the minimum total annual cost as the objective function, thereby promoting economic sustainability. Moreover, an integrated assessment framework, including economic, energy efficiency, and environmental aspects, is constructed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the operation of IES, ensuring a holistic view of sustainability. Finally, taking the IES of an industrial park in Xi’an, China, as the specific case, sensitivity analysis is used to explore the impact of a variety of critical parameters on the equipment capacity and operating strategy. Additionally, the Monte Carlo method is used to explore the impact of source-load uncertainty on the performance of the IES. The results show that the facilitating or constraining relationship between renewable energy access and the cascading utilization of combined heat and power generation (CHP) energy depends on the relative magnitude of the user load thermoelectric ratio to the prime mover thermoelectric ratio. To cope with the negative impact of source-load uncertainty on the stable operation of the IES, the capacities of the electric chiller and absorption chiller should be increased by 4.0% and 5.8%, respectively. It is worth noting that the increase in the penetration rate of renewable energy has not changed the system’s dependence on the grid.
Methods for Infectious Disease Risk Assessments in Megacities Using the Urban Resilience Theory
Authors: Wang Hao , Cao Changhao , Ma Xiaokang , Ma Yao
Published: November 2023

Since the 20th century began, the world has witnessed the emergence of contagious diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), H1N1 influenza, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Conducting timely infectious disease risk assessments is of significant importance for preventing the spread of viruses, safeguarding public health, and achieving sustainable development. Most current studies on epidemic risk assessments focus on administrative divisions, making it challenging to reflect the risk disparities within these areas. Taking Shanghai as an example, this research introduces the concept of urban resilience frameworks and identifies the risk factors. By analyzing the interactions among different risk factors using geographic detectors, this study establishes the distribution relationship between the risk factors and newly reported cases using Geographically Weighted Regression. A risk assessment model is constructed to evaluate the infection risk within different regions of the administrative area. The results demonstrate that the central area of Shanghai exhibits the highest infection risk, gradually decreasing toward the periphery. The Spearman’s correlation coefficient (p) between the predicted and actual distribution of new cases reaches 0.869 (p < 0.001), and the coefficient of determination (R2) is 0.938 (p < 0.001), indicating a relatively accurate assessment of infection risk in different spatial areas. This research methodology can be effectively applied to infectious disease risk assessments during public health emergencies, thereby assisting in the formulation of epidemic prevention policies.
The Paradox of Privatization in Inland Fisheries Management: Lessons from a Traditional System
Authors: Ma’ruf Irkhamiawan , Kamal Mohammad Mukhlis , Satria Arif , Sulistiono  , Halimatussadiah Alin , Setiawan Yudi
Published: November 2023

Privatization, often proposed as a means to regulate natural resource use, sometimes paradoxically leads to overexploitation and social exclusion. Within the unique context of Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) Regency, Indonesia, the privatization of swamp floodplains and rivers via the “Lelang Lebak, Lebung, Sungai” (L3S) system is a testament to this dilemma. L3S grants auction winners exclusive rights to fish, thereby privatizing common-pool resources. This study delves into the intricacies of the L3S mechanism, highlighting its significance in guiding inland fisheries’ management. Through stakeholder analysis, we pinpoint the crucial actors, as well as their interests, influence, and interrelationships. Our investigation revealed 20 distinct stakeholders, each playing different roles within the L3S framework. Based on their influence and vested interests, these stakeholders are categorized as key players, subjects, context setters, and crowds. This classification aids in discerning potential conflicts, cooperation, and synergies. Effective L3S execution hinges on collaboration, especially with pivotal entities such as fishery services, village and district heads, and village-owned enterprises. Insights gathered during the study indicate that while privatization has streamlined resource distribution, it intensifies overfishing and deepens socioeconomic divisions. This study calls for a harmonious blend of historical insights and modern governance, with a central focus on stakeholder collaboration and community involvement.
Barriers to Evidence-Based Sustainable Planning for Tourism: Perspectives from Ireland’s Local Authorities
Authors: McLoughlin Emmet , Maguire Kelly , Hanrahan James
Published: November 2023

Local Authorities have significant tourism planning responsibilities and can benefit from evidence-based approaches. Qualitative interviews with 28 Local Authorities identified impediments to adopting indicators. Key barriers included more knowledge of indicator systems, training in using systems, and understanding sustainability value and governance issues. However, transitioning to sustainable tourism through monitoring requires efficient resourcing of Local Authorities. Statutory adoption of indicators may be needed to enable evidence-based planning and policy making. More informed planning approaches can help destinations respond to tourism issues and sustainability threats. Findings have implications for facilitating indicator implementation and evidence-based planning in other tourism destinations internationally.
Geochemical Anomalies in Soils and Surface Waters in an Area Adjacent to a Long-Used Controlled Municipal Landfill
Authors: Rodríguez-Rastrero Manuel , Suárez Carmen E. , Ortega Almudena , Cuevas Jaime , Fernández Raúl
Published: November 2023

Municipal landfills, even when controlled, are potential sources of soil and water pollution in surrounding areas, due to the migration of pollutants through water and air. This research assesses geochemical anomalies of heavy elements and rare earth elements in soils and surface waters in an adjacent area to a controlled municipal landfill near Madrid (Central Spain), under long-term operation. Twenty soil and eighteen water samples were collected in 2017 and 2018 and analyzed for this purpose. Spatial distribution and concentrations of heavy elements (Ag, Cd, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Tl, and Zn) and rare Earth elements (La, Ce, and Gd) are heterogeneous and significantly higher than soil background levels, but below the legal limits to consider intervention. Accumulation of heavy and rare Earth elements in soil nearest the landfill is attributed to occur via wind and wind-driven rain transport, while their accumulation in sediments is attributed to water transport through the creeks. Surface waters show large contamination by organic and inorganic compounds and influence geochemical anomalies in sediments. The water quality is below allowable concentrations for drinking water. The combined evaluation of the soil and water samples performed in the present work is proposed as a pilot study that may be applicable to similar surrounding landfill areas worldwide.
A Case Study of Existing Peer-to-Peer Energy Trading Platforms: Calling for Integrated Platform Features
Authors: Shan Shan , Yang Siliang , Becerra Victor , Deng Jiamei , Li Honglei
Published: November 2023

The emergence of distributed energy has led to a change in the role of the consumer in the traditional sense over the past decade. The proliferation of emerging generators and distributors has created opportunities for a more decentralised and open energy market. In particular, the emergence of peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading models, challenged by the surge in demand for sustainable energy, has eliminated the need for intermediaries in energy transactions between consumers, producers, and sellers. Due to the great promise of sustainable energy, both in terms of its contribution to the environment and production costs, this paper reviews a number of well-known P2P energy trading platforms to understand what makes P2P energy trading platforms more functional. As a result, areas for consideration were identified and grouped into five themes: (1) set-up, (2) market, (3) information, (4) price, and (5) regulation.
The Partially Drained Behaviour of Dense Fibre-Reinforced Sands
Authors: Maleki Tabrizi Emad , Dibazar Amir Abbas , Hajialilue-Bonab Masoud , Esmatkhah Irani Arash , Assadi-Langroudi Arya
Published: November 2023

Strain paths allowing both volumetric changes and excess pore water pressure generation could be more critical than conventional drained or undrained paths as limiting boundaries. Due to the potential of fibre reinforcement to improve the mechanical behaviour of sands, this study investigated the influence of different strain paths, ranging from contractive to expansive partially drained, on the primary strength properties of fibre-reinforced sands. Triaxial tests were conducted to examine the effect of strain paths on the ultimate stress ratio, peak stress ratio, and the generation of excess pore water pressure in reinforced sands. The results indicate that the induced strain path significantly influences the behaviour of fibre-reinforced sands. The fibre reinforcement was able to significantly impact the tolerable peak deviatoric stresses and the induced ultimate stress ratio. It was also demonstrated that fibre reinforcement not only enhances the shear strength of sands but also increases their resistance to anisotropy induced by different experienced drainage conditions. Additionally, direct simple shear tests were conducted to evaluate the effects of shear modes, and the results were compared with triaxial tests.
Comparison of the Techno-Economic and Environmental Assessment of Hydrodynamic Cavitation and Mechanical Stirring Reactors for the Production of Sustainable Hevea brasiliensis Ethyl Ester
Authors: Samuel Olusegun David , Aigba Peter A. , Tran Thien Khanh , Fayaz H. , Pastore Carlo , Der Oguzhan , Erçetin Ali , Enweremadu Christopher C. , Mustafa Ahmad
Published: November 2023

Even though the hydrodynamic cavitation reactor (HCR) performs better than the mechanical stirring reactor (MSR) at producing biodiesel, and the ethylic process of biodiesel production is entirely bio-based and environmentally friendly, non-homogeneous ethanol with the triglyceride of underutilized oil, despite the many technical advantages, has discouraged the biodiesel industry and stakeholders from producing ethylic biodiesel in HCRs. This study examines the generation of biodiesel from rubber seed oil (RSO) by comparing the ethyl-based HCR and MSR. Despite ethyl’s technical advantages and environmental friendliness, a lack of scalable protocols for various feedstocks hinders its global adoption. The research employs Aspen HYSYS simulations to investigate the ethanolysis process for RSO in both HCRs and MSRs. The HCR proves more productive, converting 99.01% of RSO compared to the MSR’s 94.85%. The HCR’s exergetic efficiency is 89.56% vs. the MSR’s 54.92%, with significantly lower energy usage. Removing catalytic and glycerin purification stages impacts both processes, with HC showing lower exergy destruction. Economic analysis reveals the HCR’s lower investment cost and higher net present value (USD 57.2 million) and return on investment (176%) compared to the MSR’s. The HCR also has a much smaller carbon footprint, emitting 7.2 t CO2 eq./year, while the MSR emits 172 t CO2 eq./year. This study provides database information for quickly scaling up the production of ethanolic biodiesel from non-edible and third-generation feedstocks in the HCR and MSR.
The Effects of Red-Grape Seed and Pomace-Flour Dietary Supplementation on Broiler Chickens
Authors: Mauro Manuela , Vazzana Mirella , Attanzio Alessandro , Gurrieri Emiliano , Restivo Ignazio , Badalamenti Rosario , Corazza Erika , Sallemi Sabrina , Russello Simone , Fabbrizio Antonio , Vizzini Aiti , Tesoriere Luisa , D’Emanuele Dario , Gargano Claudio , Badalamenti Giampaolo , Di Grigoli Antonino , Di Stefano Vita , Bellini Paola , Arizza Vincenzo
Published: November 2023

Wine by-products, generated in large quantities and wasted with serious environmental and economic consequences, are an exceptional alternative to conventional and non-sustainable food sources. The aim of the study was to understand if these by-products could be reused in feed for broiler chickens, improving certain blood parameters important in immune responses, by testing different concentrations and administration times. The effects of the grape-seed and pomace flour of red-wine waste were evaluated. Three different diets were tested containing pomace (0%, 3%, and 6%), grape seeds (0%, 3%, and 6%), and a mix of pomace and grape seeds (0 and 3%) for 7, 21, and 42 days. Esterase, alkaline phosphatase, and peroxidase activity, along with glucose, reactive oxygen species, and glutathione levels, were evaluated in blood samples. The results showed significant changes in the parameters analyzed, especially after 21 and 42 days of administration. All diets administered showed significant effects based on exposure time and by-product concentration used. The greatest effects seem to have come from grape-seed flour. All the by-products of wine production analyzed in this study showed important antioxidant activities and can be included in the food context of farm animals in different growth phases at different concentrations.
Convolutional Neural Network-Based Vehicle Classification in Low-Quality Imaging Conditions for Internet of Things Devices
Authors: Maiga Bamoye , Dalveren Yaser , Kara Ali , Derawi Mohammad
Published: November 2023

Vehicle classification has an important role in the efficient implementation of Internet of Things (IoT)-based intelligent transportation system (ITS) applications. Nowadays, because of their higher performance, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are mostly used for vehicle classification. However, the computational complexity of CNNs and high-resolution data provided by high-quality monitoring cameras can pose significant challenges due to limited IoT device resources. In order to address this issue, this study aims to propose a simple CNN-based model for vehicle classification in low-quality images collected by a standard security camera positioned far from a traffic scene under low lighting and different weather conditions. For this purpose, firstly, a new dataset that contains 4800 low-quality vehicle images with 100 × 100 pixels and a 96 dpi resolution was created. Then, the proposed model and several well-known CNN-based models were tested on the created dataset. The results demonstrate that the proposed model achieved 95.8% accuracy, outperforming Inception v3, Inception-ResNet v2, Xception, and VGG19. While DenseNet121 and ResNet50 achieved better accuracy, their complexity in terms of higher trainable parameters, layers, and training times might be a significant concern in practice. In this context, the results suggest that the proposed model could be a feasible option for IoT devices used in ITS applications due to its simple architecture.
Exploring Motivations and Trust Mechanisms in Knowledge Sharing: The Moderating Role of Social Alienation
Authors: Guo Yaoyao , Chun Dongphil , Yin Feng , Zhou Yaying
Published: November 2023

This study is based on social exchange theory and the UTAUT model to develop a research model to investigate the impact of motivations under the background of established enterprise social media (ESM) in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Motivations like organization rewards (OR), reciprocal benefits (RB), expectation fulfillment (EF), and job relevance (JR) have different impacts on the following two dimensions of trust: affect-based trust (ABT) and technology-based trust (TBT). This study considers the trust mechanism as the mediator in the relationship between motivations and knowledge sharing (KS). It also demonstrates the psychological element of social alienation (SA) as a moderator that influences trust level and its inhibitory effect on knowledge sharing within the organization. The authors in this study collected data from managers and employees in seven enterprises, including three retail enterprises and four information technology (IT) enterprises in China through three waves. In total, 509 responses were received, and 483 valid data were used to test the research model and hypotheses through the structural equation modeling (SEM) method to evaluate the impact of the potential elements on knowledge-sharing behavior. This research found that motivations like OR and RB promote ABT, thereby encouraging knowledge sharing when employees use ESM. The motivations of EF and JR have a direct effect on TBT, as well as promoting knowledge sharing. Both ABT and TBT have mediating roles between motivations and KS. In addition, the research also revealed the negative moderation effect of SA on the relationship between the two types of trust and KS. Specifically, SA gradually weakens the effects of ABT and TBT on KS, especially when employees are experiencing high levels of SA; ABT and TBT have no impact on KS. This study attempts to advance the theoretical and practical insights of motivations on knowledge sharing by exploring mediating effects of trust mechanisms. It also reveals the importance of SA’s moderation effect on the relationship between trust mechanisms and KS under the application of ESM.
Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Groundwater Levels: A Case Study of Alluvial Aquifers in the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia
Authors: Fu Guobin , Clark Stephanie R. , Gonzalez Dennis , Rojas Rodrigo , Janardhanan Sreekanth
Published: November 2023

Understanding the temporal patterns in groundwater levels and their spatial distributions is essential for quantifying the natural and anthropogenic impacts on groundwater resources for better management and planning decisions. The two most popular clustering analysis methods in the literature, hierarchical clustering analysis and self-organizing maps, were used in this study to investigate the temporal patterns of groundwater levels from a dataset with 910 observation bores in the largest river system in Australia. Results showed the following: (1) Six dominant cluster patterns were found that could explain the temporal groundwater trends in the Murray–Darling Basin. Interpretation of each of these patterns indicated how groundwater in each cluster behaved before, during, and after the Millennium Drought. (2) The two methods produced similar results, indicating the robustness of the six dominant patterns that were identified. (3) The Millennium Drought, from 1997 to 2009, had a clear impact on groundwater level temporal variability and trends. An example causal attribution analysis based on the clustering results (using a neural network model to represent groundwater level dynamics) is introduced and will be expanded in future work to identify drivers of temporal and spatial changes in groundwater level for each of the dominant patterns, leading to possibilities for better water resource understanding and management.
Artificial Neural Networks Using Quiver Representations of Finite Cyclic Groups
Authors: Wanditra Lucky Cahya , Muchtadi-Alamsyah Intan , Nasution Dellavitha
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we propose using quiver representations as a tool for understanding artificial neural network algorithms. Specifically, we construct these algorithms by utilizing the group algebra of a finite cyclic group as vertices and convolution transformations as maps. We will demonstrate the neural network using convolution operation in the group algebra. The convolution operation in the group algebra that is formed by a finite cyclic group can be seen as a circulant matrix. We will represent a circulant matrix as a map from a cycle permutation matrix to a polynomial function. Using the permutation matrix, we will see some properties of the circulant matrix. Furthermore, we will examine some properties of circulant matrices using representations of finite symmetric groups as permutation matrices. Using the properties, we also examine the properties of moduli spaces formed by the actions of the change of basis group on the set of quiver representations. Through this analysis, we can compute the dimension of the moduli spaces.
Co-Infection of Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus and Pepino Mosaic Virus in Grocery Tomatoes in South Florida: Prevalence and Genomic Diversity
Authors: Yilmaz Salih , Batuman Ozgur
Published: November 2023

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is an economically important seed and mechanically transmitted pathogen of significant importance to tomato production around the globe. Synergistic interaction with pepino mosaic virus (PepMV), another seed and mechanically transmitted virus, and long-distance dissemination of these two viruses via contaminated tomato fruits through global marketing were previously suggested. In 2019, we detected both viruses in several grocery store-purchased tomatoes in South Florida, USA. In this study, to identify potential sources of inoculum, co-infection status, prevalence, and genomic diversity of these viruses, we surveyed symptomatic and asymptomatic imported tomatoes sold in ten different groceries in four cities in South Florida. According to the product labels, all collected tomatoes originated from Canada, Mexico, or repacking houses in the United States. With high prevalence levels, 86.5% of the collected samples were infected with ToBRFV, 90% with PepMV alone, and 73% were mixed-infected. The phylogenetic study showed no significant correlations between ToBRFV genomic diversity and the tomato label origin. Phylogenetic analysis of PepMV isolates revealed the prevalence of the PepMV strains, Chilean (CH2) and recombinant (US2). The results of this study highlight the continual presence of PepMV and ToBRFV in imported tomatoes in Florida grocery stores.
Molecular and Pathological Characterization of Classical Swine Fever Virus Genotype 2 Strains Responsible for the 2013–2018 Outbreak in Colombia
Authors: Robert Erin , Goonewardene Kalhari , Lamboo Lindsey , Perez Orlando , Goolia Melissa , Lewis Charles , Erdelyan Cassidy N. G. , Lung Oliver , Handel Katherine , Moffat Estella , Embury-Hyatt Carissa , Amaya Nancy Naranjo , Parra Claudia Patricia Calderón , Rueda Diana Cristina Gómez , Monroy Maria Antonia Rincón , Clavijo Alfonso , Ambagala Aruna
Published: November 2023

Classical swine fever (CSF) is a highly contagious transboundary viral disease of domestic and wild pigs. Despite mass vaccination and continuous eradication programs, CSF remains endemic in Asia, some countries in Europe, the Caribbean and South America. Since June 2013, Northern Colombia has reported 137 CSF outbreaks, mostly in backyard production systems with low vaccination coverage. The purpose of this study was to characterize the virus responsible for the outbreak. Phylogenetic analysis based on the full-length E2 sequence shows that the virus is closely related to CSF virus (CSFV) genotype 2.6 strains circulating in Southeast Asia. The pathotyping experiment suggests that the virus responsible is a moderately virulent strain. The 190 nucleotide stretch of the E2 hypervariable region of these isolates also shows high similarity to the CSFV isolates from Colombia in 2005 and 2006, suggesting a common origin for the CSF outbreaks caused by genotype 2.6 strains. The emergence of genotype 2.6 in Colombia suggests a potential transboundary spread of CSFV from Asia to the Americas, complicating the ongoing CSF eradication efforts in the Americas, and emphasizes the need for continuous surveillance in the region.
Influence of the Anatomical Site on Adipose Tissue-Derived Stromal Cells’ Biological Profile and Osteogenic Potential in Companion Animals
Authors: Ferreira-Baptista Carla , Ferreira Rita , Fernandes Maria Helena , Gomes Pedro Sousa , Colaço Bruno
Published: November 2023

Adipose tissue-derived stromal cells (ADSCs) have generated considerable interest in the field of veterinary medicine, particularly for their potential in therapeutic strategies focused on bone regeneration. These cells possess unique biological characteristics, including their regenerative capacity and their ability to produce bioactive molecules. However, it is crucial to recognize that the characteristics of ADSCs can vary depending on the animal species and the site from which they are derived, such as the subcutaneous and visceral regions (SCAT and VAT, respectively). Thus, the present work aimed to comprehensively review the different traits of ADSCs isolated from diverse anatomical sites in companion animals, i.e., dogs, cats, and horses, in terms of immunophenotype, morphology, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation potential. The findings indicate that the immunophenotype, proliferation, and osteogenic potential of ADSCs differ according to tissue origin and species. Generally, the proliferation rate is higher in VAT-derived ADSCs in dogs and horses, whereas in cats, the proliferation rate appears to be similar in both cells isolated from SCAT and VAT regions. In terms of osteogenic differentiation potential, VAT-derived ADSCs demonstrate the highest capability in cats, whereas SCAT-derived ADSCs exhibit superior potential in horses. Interestingly, in dogs, VAT-derived cells appear to have greater potential than those isolated from SCAT. Within the VAT, ADSCs derived from the falciform ligament and omentum show increased osteogenic potential, compared to cells isolated from other anatomical locations. Consequently, considering these disparities, optimizing isolation protocols becomes pivotal, tailoring them to the specific target species and therapeutic aims, and judiciously selecting the anatomical site for ADSC isolation. This approach holds promise to enhance the efficacy of ADSCs-based bone regenerative therapies.
A Comparative and Optimal Experiment of a Sequential Batch Enhanced Pre-Treatment Reactor without Sludge Retention
Authors: Liu Yali , Zhang Zhi , Yao Jingmei , Cao Chunxia
Published: November 2023

This article focuses on the limitations of the traditional treatment technology of leachate, based on the principles of reaction kinetics and analysis of biological treatment technology, and conducts a comparative study of the synchronization experiments of a sequential batch enhanced pre-treatment reactor without sludge retention (SBER for short), sequential batch reactor (SBR for short), and continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR for short). It has been confirmed that the SBER has higher and more stable pre-treatment efficiency for organic matter and nutrients, significantly improves the biodegradability and nutrient ratio of pre-treatment, and creates favorable conditions for subsequent aerobic biological treatment. The further orthogonal test confirmed that dissolved oxygen (DO for short), hydraulic retention time (HRT for short), pH, and sequencing period were significant influencing factors on the treatment efficiency of the SBER, and the optimal operating parameters of the SBER were obtained: aeration time (Ta for short) = 8 h/d, HRT = 4 d, pH = 8.0, and sequencing period (Ts) = 6 h.
Numerical Study on Local Scour Reduction around Two Cylindrical Piers Arranged in Tandem Using Collars
Authors: Qi Hongliang , Yuan Tiangang , Zou Wen , Tian Weiping , Li Jiachun
Published: November 2023

Local scour occurring near bridge piers has become a major problem all over the world, which has caused countless bridge damage events. Explorations regarding local scour reduction measurements have become a research hotspot in the field. Much effective research has been conducted on scour reduction for single piers. However, studies on local scour reduction around multiple piers that are arranged in tandem have rarely been reported. Therefore, the effect of the span and the local scour reduction measurement (collar) on the characteristics of the local scouring behavior around two piers arranged in tandem are explored in this research, with numerical simulations in clear-water conditions. The results show that the local scour depth of the downstream pier increases gradually with an increase in the pier spacing, due to the weakened sheltering effect of the upstream pier. The local scouring of both the upstream and downstream piers can be reduced if the upstream pier is protected by a collar. The local scour reduction efficiency of the upstream pier can reach 52~55%. The local scour reduction efficiency of the downstream pier decreases rapidly from 84.3% to 8.3% with an increase in the pier spacing. If the pier spacing, G, is greater than 4.0D (D is the diameter of the pier), the local scour depth around the downstream pier is larger than that around the upstream pier. Therefore, if the local scour depth of the upstream pier is considered safe and acceptable, it is used as the reduction target of the downstream local scour depth. A collar must be adapted for use around the downstream pier when G/D > 4.0. If both the piers are protected by collars of the same size (W = 3.0D), the local scour reduction efficiency of the downstream pier is about 15% more than that of the upstream pier. The local scour depth around the downstream pier is 64.5% of that around the upstream pier. Therefore, the size of the collar around the downstream pier can be decreased to save costs. The local scour reduction efficiency for the downstream pier reduces from 66.7% to 39.8% when the downstream collar size (W) decreases from 3.0D to 2.0D. To ensure that the local scour depth around the downstream pier is no greater than that of the upstream pier, the downstream collar should be larger than 2.25D. These results can serve as a reference for the local scour reduction of two piers arranged in tandem.
Türkiye’de Bölgesel Kamu Yatırımlarının Politik, Ekonomik, Kültürel ve Demografik Belirleyicileri
Authors: BENLİ Muhammed , EKİNCİ Aykut
Published: November 2023

Sosyo-ekonomik kalkınmaya doğrudan etki edebilecek kamu yatırımlarını belirleyen temel dinamiklerin ve motivasyon kaynağının tespiti, ulusal ve yerel kalkınma stratejilerinin başarısı için kilit bir role sahiptir. Nitekim kamu yatırımlarını belirleyen faktörlerin anlaşılması, kamu yatırımlarına ayrılması gereken fon miktarının ve öncelenmesi gereken yatırımların tespitinde büyük bir önem arz etmektedir. Bu çerçevede, mevcut çalışmanın amacı, Türkiye örneğinde bölgesel kamu yatırımlarını belirleyen ekonomik, politik, kültürel ve demografik faktörleri, 2004 – 2018 dönemi verilerini kullanarak tespit etmektir. Panel veri analizinden elde edilen bulgular, kişi başına gelirin kamu yatırımları üzerindeki etkisinin pozitif; ancak istatistiksel olarak anlamsız olduğunu göstermektedir. Regresyon sonuçları, istatistiksel etki minimal düzeyde olmak üzere, nüfus yoğunluğunun düşük ve tarımsal üretimin ağırlıkta olduğu illerin kamu yatırımlarını çekmede nispeten daha avantajlı olduğunu göstermektedir. Diğer taraftan, yabancı ziyaretçi sayısının yüksekliği de kamu yatırımlarının artışına etki eden faktörlerden birisi olarak tespit edilmiştir. Ampirik sonuçlar, ayrıca, yüksek temsil oranı ve iktidar partisi milletvekili sayısının kamu yatırımlarını artırdığını göstermekte olup belediye başkanının iktidar partisinden olması ve iktidar partisi oy oranının kamu yatırımları üzerindeki etkisi ise istatistiksel olarak anlamsızdır.
CHARACTERISTICS OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE OF STUDENTS WITH DIFFERENT LEVELS OF DEVELOPMENT OF COMMUNICATIVE ABILITIES
Authors: Reva M.
Published: November 2023

The article presents the results of theoretical and empirical research of psychological peculiarities of emotional intelligence of students with different levels of development of communicative abilities. Theoretical analysis revealed that emotional intelligence is mostly defined as a person's ability to realize, accept and manage emotional states and feelings, both their own and other people's, which is formed during a person's life in communication and professional activities. Thus, emotional intelligence is, on the one hand, the ability to understand, analyze and control one’s own feelings and emotions, and on the other it is the ability to feel and understand the mood of the environment.

At the same time, the need for a more detailed practical study of the problem was confirmed, as the issue of the specifics of the emotional intelligence of the personality depending on the level of development of its communicative area remains insufficiently resolved.

The data of the empirical study of the peculiarities of emotional intelligence of students with different levels of development of communicative abilities showed that the least students have the lowest level of general emotional intelligence, and the most number of students has the low level. The higher the level of development of emotional intelligence the subjects have, the more moderate they are in interaction with society, more sociable and have a positive emotional background, not susceptible to negativity. A high level of development of communicative and organizational abilities in the studied sample was also revealed.

It was proved that emotional intelligence has a direct relationship with the communicative abilities of the personality in the student age, namely, the higher the level of emotional intelligence of students is, the higher is the level of development of their communicative abilities. In practice, this is manifested in the fact that the better the researched students are oriented in emotions, the more accurately they are able to recognize certain emotions of other people, and the more able they are to understand and control their feelings, the more they are able to communication with others and to active communicative activities.
Consumer Attitudes Towards using Digital Assistants in Online Shopping
Authors: Devi Geeta
Published: November 2023

Consumers' shopping habits have undergone a significant shift in the past decade. Although people still shop in physical stores, they find online shopping to be very convenient because they don't have to physically go to the store. Making choices and evaluating prices against those of competitors' products can be done comfortably and at home. The retail industry's advertising, sales, and delivery channels have changed as a result of the widespread use of the internet. Online retailers are currently spending a lot of money to expand their sales capabilities and handle a wider variety of transactions. Digital assistants are now available to offer customers text-based and voice-driven interfaces that are specifically tailored to their needs. This enables e-retailers to better support their online customers by creating a marketing strategy that will draw in potential customers and turn them into active customers by effectively incentivizing them to make a purchase decision. To gain a competitive edge in online shopping, it is necessary to analyse consumer attitudes towards digital assistants. This study emphasises consumer attitudes towards digital assistants when they shop online.
Peningkatan Kompetensi Kepemimpinan Pembelajaran: Mutu Pembelajaran Berbasis Data Sekolah
Authors: Eppendi Jhoni , Rustiningsih Rustiningsih , Ange Kamarudin , Naim Khoirul
Published: November 2023

Salah satu kompetensi yang wajib dimiliki oleh seorang pemimpin satuan pendidikan adalah kepemimpinan pembelajaran dimana kompotensi ini mengarahkan kepala sekolah untuk senantiasa mengembangkan dan meningkatkan mutu layanan pembelajaran di satuan pendidikan yang dipimpin. Kepala Sekolah telah mencoba berinovasi untuk meningkatkan mutu pembelajaran akan tetapi hasil yang dicapai belum menunjukkan hasil yang optimal. Sehingga pelatihan peningkatan kompetensi kepemimpinan pembelajaran berbasis data sekolah perlu dilakukan untuk menjembatani Kepala sekolah dan Pengawas Sekolah mencapai hasil optimal dalam mengembangkan kualitas pembelajaran. Peserta pelatihan ini terdiri dari 13 Kepala sekolah dan 8 pengawas sekolah yang terdaftar dalam sekolah penggerak di Kabupaten Nunukan. Kegiatan pelatihan dilakukan secara luring di Hotel Laura Nunukan selama 2 hari. Metode diskusi kelompok yang digunakan (collaborative learning) mampu memaksimalkan capaian kompetensi peserta pelatihan yang tertuang dalam beberapa sesi. Hasil pelatihan mengindikasikan bahwa tujuan pelatihan dapat tercapai secara optimal dimana peserta mampu merancang rencana tindak lanjut yang akan diterapkan di satuan Pendidikan setelah pelatihan selesai sesuai dengan kondisi masing-masing. Lebih lagi, peserta memberikan respon yang sangat positif yakni baik sekali terhadap performa narasumber yang mampu memfasilitasi para peserta untuk berperan aktif dalam kegiatan pelatihan. Kondisi tempat pelatihan juga memungkinkan peserta untuk mengikuti pelatihan secara kondusif. Jadi, sebuah kegiatan pelatihan tidak hanya menampilkan materi yang runtut sesuai tujuan tetapi juga yang tidak kalah penting adalah narasumber dalam mengelola pelaksanaan pelatihan.