bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulação Realística: prática e desafios no ensino em saúde
Authors: Cordeiro Benedito Carlos , Freitas Evani Leite de , Mosegui Gabriela Bittencourt González , Rangel Vanessa Maia
Published: January 2025

O que é uma simulação? Iniciemos partindo do pressuposto de que se trata de algo falso. E quando se acrescenta o adjetivo realística? Torna-se real o que é falso? Para além de uma discussão filosófica, a simulação realística cada vez mais se impõe em um mundo onde os erros devem ser reduzidos, seja no treinamento de um piloto de avião, seja na formação de um profissional de saúde. Se sua justificativa, então, pode ser superada, surge a dúvida ontológica: situações – ou simulações – já existem ou devem ser criadas? Este livro propõe algumas experiências de simulação realística, utilizando situações (simulações?) baseadas em experiências reais… ou quase! É possível, no início do século XXI, continuarmos com o ensino bancário tão denunciado pela pedagogia freireana? Ou devemos dar um passo além, utilizando metodologias em que professores não são os atores principais. O que o leitor encontrará, aqui, não é um guia. São discussões, dificuldades – mas também caminhos – para a implementação da simulação realística. Enfim, arrisquem-se.
The effects of technology investment on financial stability: Evidence from commercial banks in Vietnam
Authors: Nhat Nguyen Minh
Published: January 2025

This study examines the effects of technology investments on financial stability at commercial banks in Vietnam. Financial services provided by banks are vital to the growth and development of the Vietnamese economy. Due to competitive constraints and the need to keep up with fast-moving FinTech startups, Vietnamese banks have made digital transformation a top strategic goal. Therefore, the study aims to investigate the impact of technology investment on the financial stability of commercial banks in Vietnam from 2012 to 2023. The research used financial data from 26 joint-stock commercial banks and panel data analysis with the ordinary least squares (OLS), fixed effect model (FEM), random effects model (REM), and generalized method of moments (GMM) to look into the link between bank stability and technology spending. The findings reveal that while technology investment significantly enhances operational efficiency and market competitiveness, it poses risks, particularly during the initial stages of digital transformation. The results show a significant negative effect of technology investment on financial stability, highlighting the need for strategic planning and robust regulatory frameworks. These insights provide valuable recommendations for bank management and policymakers to balance technological advancements with financial stability, especially in economic disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, the practical implications help commercial banks strive to increase asset size and expand operations to strengthen financial capacity, increase brand recognition, create solid customer trust, improve competitiveness, and bring high profits.
Effects of Self-Care Education on Self-Neglect Among Older Adults
Authors: Davoodi Fereshteh , Pashaeypoor Shahzad , Partovirad Mehrnoosh , Sharifi Farshad , Nikpeyma Nasrin
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Self-neglect, a form of abuse, significantly impacts the physical, mental, and social health of older adults, leading to a diminished quality of life and, in severe cases, death. For older adults experiencing self-neglect, attention to self-care is crucial for preventing or managing health issues. This study aimed to investigate the effect of self-care education on self-neglect among older adults.
 
Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted in 2021 with 100 eligible individuals selected from older adults receiving services at comprehensive health service centers in Qazvin, Iran. Participants were chosen using a non-randomized method and were divided into two groups: the self-care education group and the control group. The intervention comprised six outdoor sessions lasting 45-60 minutes each, held twice weekly at a health center. These sessions addressed five dimensions of self-care for older adults, which were validated by experts. Participants in the control group received only routine care. Post-tests were administered six weeks later.
 
Results: Before the intervention, the mean self-neglect scores were 1.345 ± 0.89 in the control group and 1.453 ± 0.43 in the self-care education group (p = 0.034). After the intervention, mean scores improved significantly to -0.760 ± 0.43 in the self-care education group and -7.056 ± 2.31 in the control group (p = 0.001).
 
Conclusion: Self-care education addressing various dimensions—physical, psychological-emotional, social, and spiritual—can serve as an effective, accessible, and cost-effective strategy for preventing and reducing self-neglect among older adults in care centers and hospitals. Future studies should consider larger populations and diverse cultural contexts to develop comprehensive clinical guidelines for preventing self-neglect
The Effect of Music on the Happiness of Turkmen Elderly Turkman in Day Care Centers
Authors: Sabzi Zahra , Saffar Razieh , Mehravar Fatemeh , Mancheri Hamideh
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Happiness is essential for all age groups, particularly the elderly. This study aimed to investigate the impact of music on the happiness levels of elderly Turkman individuals residing in Day Care Centers in Bandar Turkman and Gomishan cities, Golestan province, Iran, in 2023.
 
Methods: A quasi-experimental, before-and-after design was employed, involving 74 elderly participants from two day care centers in Golestan province. Of the total elderly population in day care centers in Bandar Turkman and Gomishan cities (95 people), 37 people from Bandar Turkman (intervention group) and 37 people from Gomishan (control group) were selected and entered into the study based on the inclusion criteria using convenience sampling. Group matching was conducted based on gender. Happiness was assessed using the Oxford Happiness Inventory at the beginning and end of the intervention for both groups. The intervention consisted of 12 group music therapy sessions, each lasting 45-50 minutes, three times a week, involving the playing of happy Turkman music. Data analysis were performed using SPSS version 26, including Chi-square, Pearson correlation, and independent t-tests.
 
Results: The mean happiness score post-intervention was significantly higher in the intervention group (70.51 ± 8.17) compared to the control group (28.43 ± 6.93) (p < 0.05). Additionally, a significant increase in mean happiness scores was observed within the intervention group before and after the intervention (p < 0.05). The impact of music intervention on happiness varied based on factors such as marital status (p < 0.05), employment status (p < 0.05), education level (p < 0.05), and gender (p < 0.05).
 
Conclusion: Given the positive influence of music on the happiness of elderly individuals, music therapy can be a valuable tool to enhance their mental health. To promote active and joyful aging, it is recommended that elderly care center administrators incorporate authorized and local music into their programs.
Analysis of the Atmosphere Ground Layer Electrodynamic Model
Authors: Timoshenko Dmitry V. , Kupovykh Gennady V. , Belousova Olga V.
Published: January 2025

The paper presents the results of analyzing the atmosphere surface layer
electrodynamics model using the methods of similarity theory. In the
electrode effect approximation, the mathematical model is presented in the
form of a nonstationary initial-boundary value problem for a parabolic type
equation. The correctness of using various types of electrodynamic models
depending on meteorological conditions in the stratified surface layer is
substantiated. Estimates of the characteristic scales of the electrode layer
are obtained depending on the meteorological parameters of the atmosphere,
which can be used in modeling problems of electrodynamics of the surface
layer. For the case of neutral stratification of the atmosphere, a procedure
has been implemented to reduce the system of equations of the electrode
effect to a dimensionless form and obtain similarity criteria. Models of a
classical, turbulent, convective-turbulent electrode layer were constructed,
and approximations were obtained for the cases of intense turbulent mixing
and strong convective transfer by splitting them into physical processes.
Typification of Volgograd Reservoir Coasts (Left Coast) Based on Data
from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Glinka Vadim V. , Saprygin Vladislav V. , Ivlieva Olga V. , Bespalova Ludmila A.
Published: January 2025

Shoreline typification was conducted by determining their morphological
and morphometric characteristics, which are important parameters for
monitoring the water protection zone of water bodies. The work was carried
out based on materials obtained during the expedition from September 27 to
October 4, 2023. Using unmanned aerial vehicles (Phantom 4 Pro and Phantom 4
Advanced), shoreline and reservoir water protection zone probing (nadir
photography) were performed. Cross-sectional profiles of the shores were
constructed from orthophotomaps and digital elevation models to obtain
morphological and morphometric characteristics of the shores (shoreline
height, slope angle, etc.). Cross-sectional profiles for abrasion shorelines
of each type were constructed at intervals approximately equal to 1000 km,
where possible, and the shores were not overgrown with moisture-loving
vegetation. All these data formed the basis for creating a database of
shoreline types of the Volgograd Reservoir. An assessment of the current
state of shoreline processes was conducted. A total of 179 km of shoreline
on the left bank of the reservoir within the boundaries of the
Sredneakhtubinsky and Bykovsky regions were surveyed. The following
shoreline types were identified on the surveyed stretch: abrasion-cliff -
12.1 % (21.75 km), abrasion-cliff (with wave-cut niches) - 4.7 % (8.45 km),
abrasion (dead cliff) - 6.1 % (10.9 km), abrasion-cliff-talus - 11.6 %
(20.87 km), abrasion with scalloped fragmentation - 0.5 % (0.85 km),
accumulative - 2.8 % (5.09 km), accumulative (cone of gully and ravine
erosion) - 0.6 % (1.14 km), neutral - 57.7 % (103.45 km), low floodplain -
3.4 % (6.12 km), anthropogenic - 0.4 % (0.73 km).
On the Tamariceta ramosissimae Formation in the Ecotone Systems of the
Northwestern Caspian Lowland
Authors: Goryaev Ivan A. , Ulanova Svetlana S.
Published: January 2025

Communities of the Tamariceta ramosissimae formation are found
everywhere in the ecotone systems of reservoirs of the Caspian lowland of
Kalmykia. The formation consists of 5 classes of associations and 23
associations. Tamarix ramosissima cenoses occur in fluctuation, dynamic and
distant ecotone blocks and are confined to solonchaks, solonchaks solonets.
The most characteristic are the Tamaricaceta ramosissima graminosa and
Tamariceta ramosissima suffruticulosa communities. Zonal features are
characterized by the distribution of communities from north to south and
southeast. They differ in phytocenotic and species composition.
Petrochemical Features and Formation Affiliation of Igneous Rocks of the
Kondakov Uplift (Eastern Donbass)
Authors: Parada Sergei G.
Published: January 2025

The ore specialization of mineral manifestations associated with igneous
rocks depends on the formation affiliation of the latter, since specific
igneous formations are characterized by a certain type of metallogeny.
Therefore, the identification of the formation affiliation of igneous rocks
of the Kondakov tectonic uplift (KTU) makes it possible to assess
metallogenic specialization and make a forecast of mineralization. For this
purpose, geological mapping data and the results of prospecting works, 145
chemical analyses of igneous rocks were used. The identification of magmatic
bodies was carried out, the features of their morphology, spatial
relationships, petrographic composition and petrochemical characteristics
were revealed. It has been established that andesites with all varieties in
the Nesvetaevsky magmatic complex make up 82 % of all studied rocks, which
already makes it possible to attribute the rocks of this complex to a purely
andesite formation. All geological bodies of the Nesvetaevsky magmatic
complex are represented by small intrusions, the rocks of which have
features characteristic of subvolcanic facies. These features, combined with
geological and geophysical data, make it possible to attribute them to the
root zones of the andesite formation. It is assumed that the rods, forces
and dikes in retrospect represented intermediate magmatic chambers and
supply channels of the Early-Middle Jurassic subaerial effusive magmatism.
At the same time, the subvolcanic facies of the andesite formation are
characterized by gold-silver and polymetallic specialization. According to
the data obtained, it is assumed that the igneous rocks of the Nesvetaevsky
KTU complex, which have all the signs of a subvolcanic facies of the
andesite formation, are promising for the detection of gold-silver and
polymetallic mineralization.
Composition of Chromitites from Ultramafites Framing the Sysert Complex
(Mount Kron, Middle Urals)
Authors: Ponomarev Vladimir S. , Erokhin Yuriy V. , Zakharov Anatoly V. , Farrakhova Nadezhda N.
Published: January 2025

The paper presents the results of a study of the mineralogy of
chromitites from an ancient mine located on the slope of Mount Kron near the
village of Raskuikha in the Middle Urals. Geologically, the studied
chromitites form small lens-shaped bodies in apodunite and apoharzburgite
serpentinites of the Early and Middle Ordovician. Ultrabasites are linear
bodies confined to the melange zone developed in the northwestern exocontact
of the Sysert metamorphic complex. It has been established that chromitites
are represented by primary aluminous magnesiochromite, which, under the
conditions of the greenschist facies of metamorphism, was transformed into
magnesian and ferruginous chromite. Microprobe analysis determined that the
green garnet that makes up the cement in chromitites and the brushes of
crystals on it is uvarovite with a content of 53-63 % uvarovite end-member,
up to 28 % grossular end-member and up to 22 % andradite end-member. Nine
sulfides have been identified in chromitites: godlevskite, nickel
pentlandite, heazlewoodite, millerite, chalcopyrite, pyrite, bornite, galena
and geerite. The formation of such rich mineralization is associated with
the metamorphism of chromitites and their subsequent hydrothermal
development.
Recettes de la taxe sur la valeur ajoutée face aux chocs économiques et changements structurels (analyse comparative de la France, de l’Allemagne et de la Pologne)
Authors: Hybka Małgorzata
Published: January 2025

Purpose: This paper aims to compare VAT performance in France, Germany and Poland. The first part provides an insight into VAT design in these countries. The objective of the second—is to compare selected indicators, and that of the last—is to evaluate the recent changes implemented in the VAT system to improve its efficiency.
Design/methodology/approach: The article uses a range of comparative legal methods (historical, structural and functional). It examines VAT performance based on indicators such as the C-efficiency ratio, the VRR or the VAT gap. The final part of the article is devoted to assessing the challenges that governments face and the reform measures that need to be taken to improve VAT efficiency.
Findings: Despite an advanced level of VAT harmonisation, significant differences in its functioning between Member States have a notable impact on the performance of this tax. For many years, VAT performance has been relatively higher in Germany than in France and Poland. Indeed, France and Poland are countries where performance indicators are below the EU average. On the other hand, in Germany, they are around this average.
Originality/value: The article examines the performance of VAT, a topic usually discussed using the example of a single country or groups of EU member states, taking into account statistical data from Eurostat. However, it is rare for authors to analyse this issue by focusing on a few countries, while taking into account original legal sources, national statistical data, reports and literature. This publication does just that. Three countries were selected: Germany, France and Poland and their choice being based on various legal and historical aspects.
From Siliciclastics to Carbonates and Black shales: Deciphering Sedimentary Continuity and Discontinuity in the Devonian Landscapes of the Volga-Ural Petroleum Province
Authors: Silantiev V. V. , Miftakhutdinova D. N. , Nurgalieva N. G.
Published: January 2025

Analyses of the three predominant types of sedimentation – siliciclastic, carbonate and black shale – revealed their discontinuity/continuity across various facies environments within the Middle and Late Devonian of the central part of the Volga-Urals petroleum province. These environments include condensed and non-condensed depressions, slopes of depressions and shallow water settings located on tectonic arches or local biohermal uplifts.

The regional zonation of conodonts, correlated with the International chronostratigraphic chart, confirms the general stratigraphic completeness of the Middle-Upper Devonian geological record in this area. Meanwhile, sedimentation exhibited a discontinuous pattern, which enables to speak about the socalled “discontinuous continuity”. In particular, the sedimentation of organic-rich black shales, traditionally considered as oil-source rocks, lasted more than 29 million years, from the Late Eifelian up to the Devoniancarboniferous boundary. The longest hiatus (ca. 2.5 Ma) in the accumulation of black shales (as well as carbonates) took place at the end of the Givetian. Notably, this interval contains the most productive siliciclastic reservoirs.

During the Early Eifelian to Early Frasnian (ca. 17 Ma), siliciclastic sediments demonstrate the highest accumulation rates and the maximum discontinuity caused by short marine transgressive episodes. Simultaneously, the most complete sequences were deposited in the depressions where carbonate and black shale sediments accumulated. During the Famennian (ca. 12 Ma), siliciclastic sedimentation completely ceased, leading to the stable accumulation of carbonate sediments on the slopes of depressions and in shallow waters; the deposition of organic-rich black shales continued in the deep axial settings of the troughs. Our results highlight the complexity of the spatial relationship between various coexisting sedimentation types and the incompleteness of the geological record in different environments.
Study of the Influence of Well Operation Parameters of a Carbonate Reservoir Oil Formation on the Coefficient of Productivity Using Statistical Methods of Analysis
Authors: Novikov V. A. , Martyushev D. A.
Published: January 2025

Well productivity index is one of the most important indicators for the development of carbonate reservoirs of oil fields, control and maintenance of high values of which determines the levels of hydrocarbon production. Determination of the complex influence of geological and technological factors on production capabilities of wells remains an actual direction of research in the field of oil producing. The present paper is devoted to improving the efficiency of production wells in a carbonate reservoir oil deposit based on the results of evaluation and consideration of the relationship between the productivity index and geological and field parameters such as reservoir pressure, bottomhole pressure, skin-factor, gas-oil ratio, water cut, using statistical methods of analysis. At the stage of preparation of initial data the materials of hydrodynamic and production-geophysical studies performed on the wells during the whole period of development of oil reservoir of one of the fields of Perm region were involved. The analysis of the obtained data sample with the use of statistical methods allowed us to study the relationships between the specific well productivity index and the considered geological and production parameters. Multivariate statistical models were developed using stepby-step regression analysis, collectively demonstrating the predominant influence of bottomhole pressure, reservoir pressure and water cut on the specific well productivity index based on the frequencies of occurrence of parameters and the order of their inclusion in the model. The study of the dynamics of changes in the accumulated multiple correlation coefficient during the development of statistical models allowed us to identify the ranges (areas) of change in the values of the specific well productivity index, which are characterized by individual correlations with geological and production parameters described by the corresponding mathematical dependencies. The developed models are characterized by high quality, which is confirmed by their statistical evaluations when comparing forecast and factual values of specific well productivity index. The criteria of applicability of models for conditions of carbonate reservoirs of oil fields are formed. The results of the study can be used for justification and regulation of technological modes of well operation, planning programs of optimization measures.
Model of hydrocarbon system snd resource assessment of the Bazhenov Formation in the Frolov Megadepression, West siberian Basin
Authors: Oksenoyd E. E. , Sidorov A. A. , Popovskaya V. G.
Published: January 2025

A model of the Bazhenov formation hydrocarbon system was calculated of an area of about 13,000 km2 including the territory of Priobskoye, Prirazlomnoye and a number of other oil fields discovered in the Frolovskaya megadepression and the Salym megaval in the West Siberian basin. Temperature history was simulated in two programs: TemisFlow and GST using heat flow maps and maps of modern temperatures of the Bazhenov formation. The amount of hydrocarbons generated by the Bazhenov formation was estimated using the organic matter transformation ratio map and the residual generation potential map. Hydrocarbon capacity of the Bazhenov formation was calculated in two ways: by using S1 pyrolytic parameter and based on the results of basin modeling. The initial total geological oil resources of the Bazhenov formation were estimated and compared between each other using three approaches: basin modeling, quantitative geological regularities and volumetric methods. All three estimates fall within the range of 74–90 mln t.
Kinetics of Organic Matter thermal transformation in source rocks: Overview of Methods and Experimental results
Authors: Spasennykh M. , Shirokova V. , Ilmenskii A. , Kozlova E. , Bulatov T. , Goncharova A. , Leushina E.
Published: January 2025

The paper is devoted to kinetic studies of thermal decomposition of organic matter in organic-rich rocks. Kinetic studies are the consisting part of geochemical investigations of source rocks and petroleum systems. The results are required for petroleum generation prediction and assessment of reservoir hydrocarbons quantity and quality using basin modelling. Kinetic data is also applied for simulation of in-situ kerogen conversion and hydrocarbons generation, which are the main processes of thermal methods of enhanced oil recovery (thermal EOR).

The paper summarizes fundamental concepts and experimental approaches for kinetic studies of organic matter thermal transformation, it provides an overview of modern methods, equipment and experimental procedures for obtaining bulk and compositional activation energy distributions (spectra) in open and closed systems, and discusses the benefits, limitations, and possible applications of the different methods.

The paper presents the scope of experimental procedures, which have been elaborated at Skoltech, and the obtained results: (i) bulk kinetic spectra, which are aimed at express prediction of the total yield of mobile hydrocarbons during kerogen transformation; (ii) compositional kinetic spectra, which considers the amount and composition of hydrocarbon products; (iii) kinetic model of organic matter transformation in a closed system, which considers primary kerogen decomposition and secondary reactions of the hydrocarbons. The kinetic spectra were obtained for various organic-rich rocks collected within the Russian Federation.
Advanced Well Logging Interpretation for Reliable Electrotyping of Low-permeable and Low-resistivity Formation
Authors: Thistiakov A. , Shvalyuk E. , Okosun K. , Spasennykh M. , Stenin A.
Published: January 2025

The target formation of a brown oilfield in Western Siberia is composed of a shallowing-up succession represented by siltstones in its base gradually replaced by sandstones toward its top. Due to the absence of detailed rockand electrotyping, the siltstones, having much lower resistivity and permeability, were assigned to a water-bearing section. However, the following up well tests detected considerable oil inflow from them as well. This motivated current research aimed at developing a new methodology of rockand electrotyping of low-resistive, low-permeable clastic reservoirs. The methodology comprises detailed workflow for laboratory tests, rock typing by means of the alternative flow zone indicator (FZI), and, finally, transfer of core-derived rock types to well log electrotypes. The proposed application of the dimensionless FZI parameter, incorporating porosity and irreducible water saturation, appeared to be very effective for electrotyping of the formation, including low-resistive and low-permeable intervals.

Since the intervals are characterized by a low correlation between permeability and porosity, applying the latter log for computing permeability results in unreliable calculation of the parameter and further incorrect electrotyping. In order to resolve this issue, the study suggests an effective alternative technique for calculating permeability as a multivariate parameter from other logs.

Further, the research proposes a well log interpretation workflow that enables conversion of the defined rock types to electrotypes, maintaining the same classification principles for both core and well logs data. This ensures compatibility of the core and well log-derived classes.

The petrophysical interpretation workflow is enhanced with machine learning algorithms for reconstructing lacking logs as well as extending the defined electrotypes to uninterpreted wells. The proposed approaches to rockand electrotyping allows detection of previously missed productive intervals and thus enables extend the lifetime of the brownfield.
PGM in chromitites of Kraka massifs (the Southern Urals): diversity and origin
Authors: Saveliev D. E.
Published: January 2025

The paper provides results of study of platinum group minerals (PGMs) from 18 ore occurrences and deposits of the Kraka massifs, most of these located in ultramafic rocks of the upper mantle section (15), and several occurrences in a crust-mantle transition complex (3). It is shown that chromitites in the upper mantle section have refractory geochemical specialization (Os-Ir-Ru), while chromitites of the transition complex typically contain Pt and Pd minerals. The highest concentrations of the platinum group elements (PGE) are observed in chromitites of the transition complex (up to 2500 ppb of the total PGE). However, minor amounts of chromitites at these sites do not allow us to consider this mineralization type as promising in practical terms. chromitites in the upper mantle section are about an order lower in PGE (50–200 ppb of the total PGE). Analysis of the obtained data suggests the following explanation for various PGM types identified. PGMs occurred in chromitites of the upper mantle section at two stages: 1) disulfides of the laurite-erlichmanite series and, to a lesser extent, Os-Ir-Ru alloys were formed within chromite grains in result of subsolidus processes in the upper mantle restite during solid-phase segregation of PGEs initially incorporated in the crystal lattice of chromite; 2) sulfoarsenides and other PGE compounds with basic metals and antimony were formed by hydrothermal processing of chromitites in crustal conditions. Pt and Pd minerals were produced by differentiation of magmatic melts separated from restite; they were completely or partly transformed under the impact of hydrothermal processes.
Four-level Resonant Flying Capacitor Converter Operating under Resonance featuring Soft-Switching and Voltage Regulation capabilities
Authors: Medeiros Augusto M. , De Novaes Yales R.
Published: January 2025

Multilevel resonant converter topologies have been addressed to increase the power density and efficiency of step-down intermediate conversion stages, for low-voltage (LV) systems, due to the higher current demand, in addition to its inherent benefit of soft-switching capability and fixed static-gain ratio, while operating at, or above, resonance. This work proposes an extension for the multilevel Resonant Flying Capacitor Converter (ML-RFLCC), by demonstrating the potential soft-switching and voltage regulation capabilities of a 1:3 RFLCC while operating under and at the resonance. Due to the increased number of state variables, it presents a comprehensive state diagram, and normalization framework, to demonstrate the operating principle, and dependencies, of the different set of LC resonant tanks. In order to achieve such an operation, this work proposes an operating condition coefficient \(\Lambda\) to derive a design methodology. To validate the proposed operation condition, a 400V 500W GaN-based 1:3 RFLCC is presented, illustrating the theoretical correlation and non-idealities while operating under resonance.
Shadows of Perception: The Role of Photographic Context in Visitor Use Management Research
Authors: Brunson Michael , Sharp Ryan L. , Wilkes Jessica , Brownlee Matthew T. J.
Published: January 2025

The unrelenting visitation to national parks calls for the continued understanding of how certain conditions shape the visitor experience and for researchers to apply the best visitor-use management practices. This study investigated perceptions of crowding, specifically using photographic panels and the possible influence of extraneous variables in those photographs. Surveys were conducted at a
national park in which participants were asked to rate the acceptability of people at one time (PAOT) on a trail at a popular overlook. Participants were given one of two sets of photographic panels depicting two different skyscapes, a Bright Sky and a Gray Sky. Respondents who were given the Gray Sky photographs reported lower levels of acceptability of PAOT compared to the Bright Sky respondents. This underscores the need to further examine how extraneous variables (e.g. environmental conditions) in photographs used for visitor-use management research may influence participant responses.
Scenarios for Negotiating a UN Framework Convention on International Tax
Authors: Heitmüller Frederik
Published: January 2025

In 2024, a debate on the objectives and design of a new UN Framework Convention on International Tax fully took off. By establishing a framework for intergovernmental cooperation, such a convention could provide for a more central role of the United Nations in the international tax regime complex, which has been dominated by the OECD and the G20. An analysis of discussions at the Ad Hoc Committee, which met in 2024 to elaborate terms of references for the negotiations of the coming years, stakeholders’ submissions, and the literature on the convention shows that the breadth of suggestions is sizeable, with only little convergence between proposals from the global South and the global North. This paper identifies the main points of contention in the current debate, analysing countries’ and other stakeholders’ positions on them. After the question of the sequencing of the negotiations was settled in the ToR, there are two principal remaining controversies: one is over rules and decision-making procedures, the other over substantive topics to be addressed. While the decision to designate substantive protocols to the convention as optional will allow for the creation of a framework without fully resolving these debates, proponents of the convention from the global South must make a strategic choice as to which of these areas to prioritise, because they form part of a trilemma. If they stick to a firm position on procedures – according to which the convention’s decisions have a binding character and can be taken by a majority vote – and on topics of discussion, much of the framework’s output will initially mainly be ‘by the global South for the global South’, with little participation from the global North. To keep a larger and more diverse group of states on board, the global South may need to compromise on the bindingness of the convention’s instruments, or on the issues that are in scope. Each decision would lead to a different role for the convention in the international tax regime complex. None of them would signify a radical change of the status quo, but each has the potential to incrementally improve the position of lower income countries and thereby lead to a more inclusive international tax regime complex.
Avaliação de concretos produzidos com variadas areias de mineração: em busca de dosagens de alto desempenho e sustentáveis
Authors: Barbosa Cheila , Menezes Mariana Figueira Lacerda
Published: January 2025

The sand from the processing of iron ore has been widely used in civil construction in Brazil, especially in the states of Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo and São Paulo. It is used as fine aggregate in the production of mortars, cement products and concrete. With the possibility of producing new sand in several iron ore mines in the state of Minas Gerais, the present study aimed to develop and analyze concrete dosages with various ore sands and sands present in the industrial market in the Belo Horizonte region. The replacement of natural river sand with mining sand in concrete dosages was evaluated and the Abrams curves were analyzed for the various dosages developed. It was possible to observe a performance gain in the dosages carried out with ore sands, with a reduction of up to 7% in cement consumption in the mixes. Thus, it can be concluded that the use of mining sand in the production of concrete is efficient, with technical and productive gains, promoting sustainable construction, reducing CO2 and promoting the circular economy in the construction chain.
Research on the effect of digital economy on new agricultural productivity
Authors: Pengfei Zhou , Yang CAI , Xianfeng Li
Published: January 2025

This article comprehensively explores the impact of the digital economy on the new quality of agricultural productivity. Leveraging the panel data of 31 provincial-level regions in China from 2011 to 2022, a series of advanced econometric models, such as bidirectional fixed-effect, intermediary effect, threshold effect, and spatial Durbin models, are established for in-depth empirical analysis. The results are multi-faceted. Firstly, the digital economy significantly elevates the new quality of agricultural productivity, yet with temporal and regional variances. Secondly, it acts as a catalyst for productivity growth by augmenting government revenue, spurring technological innovation, and enriching human capital. Thirdly, rural education, the urban-rural information chasm, and information infrastructure construction exert distinctive threshold effects on this promotional process. Notably, a significant spatial spillover effect exists. Consequently, based on these findings, suggestions for bolstering the new quality agricultural productivity are proffered from four perspectives: government governance, policy formulation, digital infrastructure construction, and human capital enhancement.
Testing the neutrality of money, labor, and capital in Pakistan's agriculture sector
Authors: Mulk Waleed , Ahmad Shakil , Younas Waqar , Ali Syed Yawar
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the neutrality of money in Pakistan's agriculture sector by analyzing semi-annual data from 1991S1 to 2019S2. We employ the impulse response function, variance decomposition, Johansen cointegration, VECM, and the Granger causality test. The Johansen cointegration approach demonstrates a continuous relationship between the variables over time. The Granger causality test indicates no short-term causal relationship between agricultural productivity and the broad money supply. On the other hand, agricultural production has a short-term causal relationship with inflation and capital. Long-term outcomes corroborate the empirical findings of the cointegration test, suggesting the existence of a cointegration connection. The impulse-response and variance decomposition tests indicate that the broad money supply has a statistically significant positive effect on short- and long-term agricultural productivity. On the other hand, inflation has both short-term and long-term detrimental effects on agricultural productivity. Meanwhile, short-term and long-term labor and capital shocks symmetrically affect agricultural productivity. Consequently, our results refute the long-term money neutrality hypothesis. The results of this paper will assist policymakers and researchers in gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of inflation, labor, capital, and the broad money supply on Pakistan's emerging economy.
Nuclear Non-Proliferation in Asia-Pacific Region
Authors: Selezneva D.
Published: January 2025

In the evolving global landscape, the Asia-Pacific region is characterized by intense economic and geopolitical competition among major powers, namely Russia, China, and the United States (three of the five recognized nuclear states). In response to China’s growing influence, the U.S. is strengthening military partnerships with key regional allies through both bilateral and minilateral formats, including the AUKUS defense pact, deeper military ties with South Korea, and high-level trilateral security meetings with South Korea and Japan. All of these initiatives in one way or another feature a nuclear component. This article aims to determine whether these actions pose a threat to the international non-proliferation regime. One of the main issues discussed is AUKUS members’ initiative to supply Australia with nuclear submarines. An analysis of existing comprehensive safeguards agreements between the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and non-nuclear-weapon states (such as Australia) points to vulnerabilities associated with non-proscribed military use of nuclear materials. It is noted that, as of now the IAEA lacks the expertise and mechanisms to effectively monitor such military programs. Particular attention is also given to the possible consequences of the transfer of nuclear submarines and submarine technology to Australia, such as setting a dangerous precedent. The author expresses concern that South Korea and Japan may seek nuclear submarines next, noting that South Korea has already openly expressed interest in pursuing its own nuclear weapons. The author concludes that the formation of new military alliances in the region could lead to serious and far-reaching consequences for the non-proliferation regime, the extent of which remains difficult to predict at this point.
Intelligent Bearing Fault Diagnosis of Switched Reluctance Motor Using Hilbert-Huang Transformation and Region-Based Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Sagar Behara Santosh , Kane Prasad V.
Published: January 2025

With the widespread trend of transportation electrification, much research has been focused on switched reluctance motor (SRM) because of its robustness and wide speed range. Though the SRM has a promising electric fault tolerance, the rotor support bearings subjected to mechanical friction are vulnerable to brinelling and corrosion. Furthermore, traditional bearing fault diagnosis approaches adopted for conventional motors are not well suited for SRM bearings because of its high torque ripples and noisy operation. Aiming at offering an efficient solution, this work proposes a novel technique by fusing the Hilbert-Huang transformation of vibration signal with region based Convolutional Neural Network. The core idea of the method is to decompose the vibration signal and employ a new kind of offline region generation algorithm for the detection of fault characteristics. The effectiveness of the designed model is tested and evaluated by a series of experiments. The results show that the proposed method achieved a remarkable diagnosis accuracy of 99.6%. Conclusively, a systematic comparison of the proposed model with the other state of the art models is carried out.
Improving Acoustic Comfort in Indoor Environments Using Eco-Sustainable Furnishings Based on Sheep's Wool
Authors: Ciaburro Giuseppe , Kumcu Elif Hasret , Iannace Gino
Published: January 2025

Eco-sustainable materials reduce environmental impact by limiting the use of non-renewable natural resources and the generation of toxic waste, thus contributing to the conservation of ecosystems and the mitigation of climate change. Furthermore, eco-sustainable materials demonstrate a concrete commitment to sustainability, increasing the appeal of a brand towards consumers that are sensitive to environmental issues Companies that adopt such materials often enjoy a better reputation and greater customer loyalty Natural fibers are emerging as a viable choice for sound-absorbing panels in construction because they exhibit favorable thermal and acoustic absorption characteristics, non-toxic nature, and abundant availability. In this study, the use of sheep's wool fibers as a sound absorption material is specifically explored through measurement and discussion of the absorption coefficient of samples with varying depth. Furthermore, the opportunity of utilizing commercial woven with various types of wool for sound absorption structures, to achieve this, modelled application of wool tapestries are placed at varying distances from a fixed back barrier. This study demonstrates significant sound absorption in specific frequency ranges, conditional on the strength of the rear cavity, affirming the suitability of wool tapestries for tailor-made acoustic interventions. The research highlights the returns of using sheep wool in environmental acoustic applications, demonstrating how the acoustic correction of an environment with the use of material based of sheep's wool provides results comparable to those of artificial materials traditionally used.
Fractional Order Kelvin-Voigt Constitutive Model and Dynamic Damping Characteristics of Viscoelastic Materials
Authors: Qin Yuan , Wang Bokai , Wang Yuhui , Wang Yao , Song Yong , Shi Xin
Published: January 2025

Viscoelastic damping materials are often under complex service conditions. To precisely characterize its dynamic damping properties, based on fractional calculus and viscoelastic theory, considering the periodic characteristics of viscoelastic materials, the distributed fractional order Kelvin-Voigt constitutive model (DFKV) was constructed. The model accuracy was validated by quasi-static experiments. The dynamic modulus expressions were derived, and the model parametric feature analysis was carried out. Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) and Separate Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) experiments were performed with silicone rubber as the subject. The results show that the silicone rubber has an obvious temperature and frequency dependence, and it has a strong strain rate correlation considering that the strain rate effect indexes that are under high strain is 29.331. At the same time, clearly the viscoelastic dynamic constitutive behavior has phased characteristics that are in line with the scientific assumption of the distribution order. The fitting accuracy of DFKV model is higher than the existing contrast models, which reflects DFKV model and favorably represents the dynamic mechanical properties of viscoelastic materials under wide temperature, frequency and strain rate. The model is highly accurate, has fewer parameters, and the physical meaning of its parameters is clearer. It can provide a theoretical reference for the research and design of viscoelastic damping materials.
Propiedades mecánicas del mortero con residuos de arena de fundición
Authors: Akeb Ahlem , Kherbache Souad , Tahakourt Abdelkader
Published: January 2025

El uso de los residuos industriales en hormigón y mortero abarata su coste y la reutilización de residuos se considera la alternativa más respetuosa con el medio ambiente para hacer frente al problema de los vertederos. Entre estos vertidos se encuentra la arena de fundición residual, que puede utilizarse en hormigón y mortero en lugar de la arena natural de río o de cantera. Este trabajo investiga el uso de la arena de fundición de residuos (WFS) en el mortero y su influencia en las propiedades mecánicas. En este estudio, se presentan los resultados de las pruebas de fluidez, resistencia a la compresión y flexión del mortero que contiene WFS. El WFS se utilizó como sustituto parcial de los áridos finos del 0 al 20% en incrementos del 5%. Se ha observado que la sustitución del WFS mejora en cierta medida las propiedades mecánicas del mortero, luego se observa una disminución de la resistencia, pero simultáneamente disminuye la trabajabilidad al aumentar el porcentaje de sustitución del WFS.
Avoidance of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in patients with Crohn’s disease: case studies
Authors: Yarnell Eric , Henry Kathryn , Bjerke Dana , DuBois Jayne , Wallace Mason
Published: January 2025

Article summary: A Saccharomyces cerevisiae-free diet can have a dramatic beneficial effect in patients with Crohn’s disease and elevated anti-S. cerevisiae antibody titers.
Elimination of Candida Sepsis and Reduction of Several Morbidities in a Tertiary NICU in Greece After Changing Antibiotic, Ventilation, and Nutrition Protocols
Authors: Dermitzaki Niki , Atzemoglou Natalia , Giapros Vasileios , Baltogianni Maria , Rallis Dimitrios , Gouvias Theodoros , Serbis Anastasios , Drougia Aikaterini
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: In recent years, strategies for improving outcomes in preterm neonates have been implemented in various aspects of neonatal care. This study aims to determine the prevalence, microbiology, and outcomes of late-onset sepsis (LOS) and the incidence of other morbidities in very preterm neonates following the implementation of specific infection control, enteral feeding, and ventilation strategies. Methods: This study retrospectively compared the morbidity and mortality of neonates with a gestational age <32 weeks over two periods. A series of changes were introduced between these periods, including restrictive use of antibiotics, aggressive enteral feeding, and wider use of non-invasive ventilation modalities. Results: A total of 310 neonates were included, 163 in period A (2010-2014), and 147 in period B (2018-2022). The incidence of LOS was 24% and 18%, and of multiple LOS episodes, 26% and 11% in periods A and B, respectively. TPN duration and gestational age were independent predictors of LOS in both periods. The rate of fungal infections declined from 9.2% to 0.7%. Full enteral nutrition in period B was achieved after a median of 7.5 days, compared with 10 days (p=0.001), resulting in fewer days of parenteral nutrition (TPN) (p=0.008). Episodes of feeding intolerance and NEC I significantly reduced (p<0.001). Incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage significantly decreased. Conclusions: Candida infections were almost completely eliminated. The incidence of LOS and multiple LOS episodes decreased. Early full enteral nutrition was achieved without adverse effects, and fewer episodes of food intolerance were observed. Candida elimination appears feasible when antibiotic stewardship is implemented in conjunction with other interventions in a NICU.