bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hierarchy Analysis of Water Demand Among Hotel Consumers for Water Appliances
Authors: Cai Rong , Kong Lingsi , Bai Yan , Liu Jialin , Hu Mengting , Bai Xue
Published: November 2024

The sustainable management of domestic water use is essential for China’s ongoing development. Despite its significance, public service water use, especially within the hotel industry, is frequently neglected. This industry not only accounts for substantial water usage, but it has also witnessed exponential growth over the past decade. In light of this, this study developed a survey on the water demand and behavior of hotel consumers and built a water consumption model to analyze the different characteristics of the total volume of water used by various water appliances. Furthermore, by dividing the hierarchical intervals of each water-use behavior, it identified the main water-saving target of each water appliance. The results showed that the daily water demand of each consumer in hotels ranged from 45 to 141 L/(person·d). Among the various water-use appliances, faucets had the highest proportion of excessive water use, reaching nearly 40%, which implies a relatively large potential for saving water. Additionally, showers were the next major contributors to water consumption, whereas the proportion of excessive water use for water closets was relatively small. Owing to different habits, there is also variability in the main groups of people targeted for water conservation across water appliances, with females having the largest potential for water consumption in hotels. The results of this study can provide greatvaluable insights for enhancing water-use efficiency in hotels and standardizing water management practices within the industry.
Numerical Evaluation of Suction Effects and Groundwater Table Variations on Long-Term Pavement Subgrade Performance
Authors: Karumanchi Siva Ram , Mandal Anirban , Lenart Stanislav
Published: November 2024

Over the past few decades, flexible pavements across the globe have seen a significant reduction in their service life due to climate changes. The flexible pavements with unsaturated subgrades undergo volumetric changes during the drying and wetting phases, affecting their long-term deformation behavior. These phases cause significant variations in matric suction and groundwater table depth. This study employs a coupled pore pressure-deformation analysis on flexible pavements to investigate the impact of groundwater table depth and suction variations in unsaturated subgrades. Finite-element simulations using the Abaqus and developed USDFLD code were validated against literature data. Sensitivity analysis was conducted by varying the suctions in subgrades during drying and subsequent wetting to evaluate the groundwater table depth. Furthermore, under heavy cyclic wheel loading, pavement-deformation analysis was conducted to investigate the influence of subgrade suction. The findings demonstrate that, after an initial drying phase at 5000 kPa suction, wetting over 180 days caused the groundwater level to rise from 5.45 m beneath the subgrade to the surface. This led to a 98% increase in surface-vertical deformations due to cyclic wheel loading after 180 days of wetting compared to the deformations during the drying phase at the same suction level. This assessment of groundwater-depth variations and long-term deformation behavior with the impact of suction improves the design and sustainability of flexible pavements.
Promoting Urban Net Zero Transitions Through Multi-Level Governance: The Intermediary Role of Systemic Collaborative Platforms
Authors: Moreno-Serna Jaime , Sánchez-Chaparro Teresa , Purcell Wendy M. , Kordas Olga , Lumbreras Julio , Mataix Carlos , Stott Leda , Soberón Miguel , Spengler John D.
Published: November 2024

In the fields of partnership research and social innovation, there has been an increasing number of calls for evidence regarding the kind of collaborative multi-level governance structures that might support large-scale transformation processes, especially in regard to climate-neutral cities. This paper conceptualizes a new type of intermediary actor, the Systemic Collaborative Platform (SCP). Using the example of a multi-stakeholder arrangement set up to design and implement Madrid’s Climate Neutrality Roadmap, the key features of an SCP include a focus on multi-stakeholder and cross-sectoral collaboration for public policy development, in this case operating at both a systemic level and a city scale, and a strong link to a key actor within this regime (a city council). Our study reveals how an SCP can contribute to articulation of a shared mandate among city actors and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of a targeted transition by attracting, aligning and managing a wide and diverse organizational ecosystem through distributed facilitation, collaborative leadership, and continuous learning.
Innovative Soil Management Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Futa Barbara , Gmitrowicz-Iwan Joanna , Skersienė Aida , Šlepetienė Alvyra , Parašotas Irmantas
Published: November 2024

Agriculture has always resulted from available technology and the necessity to secure humanity’s food needs. In recent decades, a third factor has been recognized in this system—the environment. For centuries, a side effect of agricultural development has been environmental pollution and the uncontrolled use of natural resources. New legislation is being introduced worldwide to protect the environment and move towards a sustainable economy. An example is the EU Green Deal, aimed at making Europe the world’s first climate-neutral continent. An integral part of this strategy is sustainable agriculture, based on a balanced use of resources, recycling, ecological practices and the latest technological solutions. It is also important to change the perception of soil and recognize its pivotal role in agricultural development and ensuring food security. Soil is a non-renewable natural resource; without healthy soil, no sustainable agriculture can exist. For this reason, this paper summarizes recent trends in the development of sustainable agriculture from the perspective of soil management and conservation. It includes a summary of nanomaterial use, organic farming, soil health, precision agriculture, and threats and challenges to soil sustainability posed by climate change. We conclude that despite the rapid and extensive development of agricultural solutions striving to protect the environment and increase soil productivity, measures are still lacking that will allow agriculture to maintain adequate efficiency while fully protecting the environment, especially in developing countries.
City Boundaries—Utilizing Fuzzy Set Theory for the Identification and Localization of the Urban–Rural Transition Zone
Authors: Biłozor Andrzej , Czyża Szymon , Cieślak Iwona , Szuniewicz Karol
Published: November 2024

This article examines the potential of fuzzy set theory for analysing gradual changes in land use patterns within peri-urban areas. The primary objective of the study was to propose a methodology based on fuzzy set theory for the precise delineation of city boundaries and the identification and spatial localisation of the urban–rural transition zone. The analysis focused on elucidating the defining parameters of this area and the scope of land use changes within the urban–rural transition zone. The analysis employed data from four discrete time points. The data were collected in 2005, 2010, 2017, and 2022. The characteristics of the urban–rural transition zone were evaluated through an examination of historical data and the current land use patterns in regions experiencing direct urbanization pressure. The study demonstrated that, although spatial barriers remain, the city’s development has continued at a consistent pace. Between 2005 and 2010, the area of land classified as urban exhibited a 10% increase, with a further 7% increase observed in the subsequent period, spanning 2010 to 2017. In the most recent period under examination, the urban land area increased by 9%, a figure that is consistent with the rates observed in previous years. These results indicate the stability of urbanization processes in the analysed city, while also revealing significant changes in the limits of urban development and in the intensity of land use. The research project concentrated on the city of Olsztyn and the neighbouring suburban areas, which are subject to direct influence from the city’s expansion. The area under study encompasses 202.4 km2 within an eight-km radius of the city centre. The authors of the study emphasized the necessity for systematic monitoring of changes in the transition zone between urban and rural areas. This is to ensure effective control of spatial development and ongoing adjustment of planning tools to effectively prevent uncontrolled expansion. The methodology used enabled the precise delimitation of urban development and the transition zone. This allowed for an in-depth analysis of changes in land use intensity.
A Study of the Coupling Relationship Between Industry–Economy–Population and Habitat Quality in the Kuye River Basin
Authors: Yan Sheng , Yuan Yuan , Liu Linfu , Wang Shuo , Li Mingrui
Published: November 2024

Socio-economic development accelerates the process of urbanization, but the rise in industry, economic growth and population agglomeration destroy biodiversity while promoting social progress, resulting in a decline in habitat quality and an increase in regional differences. Solving the contradiction between the social economy and ecological environment and improving the quality of regional habitats are matters of utmost importance. Based on land use and socio-economic data from 2000 to 2023, this study uses the InVEST model to explore the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of habitat quality in the Kuye River Basin, establishes a comprehensive index system, and uses the entropy method and the coupling coordination degree model to measure the degree of coordinated development. The results show that from 2000 to 2023, the habitat quality of some areas in the Kuye River Basin decreased, the coupling degree of industry, economy, population and habitat quality increased in most counties, and individual areas showed an inverted “U”-type distribution. The overall degree of coupling coordination increased, indicating more coordination. This study draws a blueprint for the development of the Kuye River Basin and provides a scientific basis for ecological governance and civilization construction.
AI-Aided Robotic Wide-Range Water Quality Monitoring System
Authors: Awwad Ameen , Husseini Ghaleb A. , Albasha Lutfi
Published: November 2024

Waterborne illnesses lead to millions of fatalities worldwide each year, particularly in developing nations. In this paper, we introduce a comprehensive system designed for the autonomous early detection of viral outbreaks transmitted through water to ensure sustainable access to healthy water resources, especially in remote areas. The system utilizes an autonomous water quality monitoring setup consisting of an airborne water sample collector, an autonomous sample processor, and an artificial intelligence-aided microscopic detector for risk assessment. The proposed system replaces the time-consuming conventional monitoring protocol by automating sample collection, sample processing, and pathogen detection. Furthermore, it provides a safer processing method against the spillage of contaminated liquids and potential resultant aerosols during the heat fixation of specimens. A morphological image processing technique of light microscopic images is used to segment images, assisting in selecting a unified appropriate input segment size based on individual blob areas of different bacterial cultures. The dataset included harmful pathogenic bacteria (A. baumanii, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa) and harmless ones found in drinking water and wastewater (E. faecium, L. paracasei, and Micrococcus spp.). The segmented labeled dataset was used to train deep convolutional neural networks to automatically detect pathogens in microscopic images. To minimize prediction error, Bayesian optimization was applied to tune the hyperparameters of the networks’ architecture and training settings. Different convolutional networks were tested in accordance with different required output labels. The neural network used to classify bacterial cultures as harmful or harmless achieved an accuracy of 99.7%. The neural network used to identify the specific types of bacteria achieved a cumulative accuracy of 93.65%.
Using HF183 to Estimate Watershed-Wide Annual Loadings of Human Fecal Pollution from Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems
Authors: Schiff Kenneth , Zimmer-Faust Amity , Nguyen Duy , Griffith John , Steele Joshua , Ebentier McCargar Darcy , Wallace Sierra
Published: November 2024

Onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTSs or septic systems), when properly sited, designed, operated, and maintained, treat domestic wastewater to reduce impacts on and maintain sustainability of aquatic resources. However, when OWTSs are not performing as expected, they can be a potential source of human fecal pollution to recreational waters, resulting in an increased risk of illness to swimmers. Quantifying the contribution of poor-performing OWTSs relative to other sources of fecal pollution is particularly challenging in wet weather when various sources commingle as they flow downstream. This study aimed to estimate the total load of human fecal pollution from OWTSs in an arid watershed with municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4). The novel study design sampled HF183, a DNA-based human marker, from six small catchments containing only OWTSs and no other known human fecal sources, such as sanitary sewer collection systems or people experiencing homelessness. Then, the human fecal loading from the representative catchments was extrapolated to the portions of the watershed that were not sampled but contained OWTSs. Flow-weighted mean HF183 concentrations ranged from 104 to 107 gene copies/100 mL across 29 site-events. HF183 mass loading estimates were normalized to the number of parcels per catchment and inches of rainfall per storm event. Assuming the normalized loading estimate was representative, extrapolation to all of the OWTS parcels in the watershed and average annual rainfall quantity illustrated that HF183 loading from OWTSs was a small but measurable fraction of the total HF183 mass loading emanating at the bottom of the watershed. Clearly, other human fecal sources contributed HF183 during storm events in this watershed. The loading estimate approach used in this study could be applied to other watersheds facing similar challenges in prioritizing resources for monitoring and mitigation among co-located human fecal sources.
Impact of Anti-Corruption on the Sustainability of Local Government Debt in China: The Moderating Role of Fiscal Transparency
Authors: Yang Li , Hu Wenxiu , Su Zhenxing , Qiao Jianqi
Published: November 2024

In the process of government management, officials may engage in rent-creation and rent-seeking within finance and debt management for personal gain, leading to corruption and jeopardizing government debt sustainability. Can anti-corruption effectively ameliorate this predicament? Based on the growing severity of global debt sustainability, 30 provincial-level administrative regions in China are used as research samples to explore the influence of China’s anti-corruption campaign targeting officials on local government debt sustainability and the moderating role of fiscal transparency. The results indicate that enhancing anti-corruption efforts will improve the sustainability of local government debt, while fiscal transparency will magnify this positive impact. Furthermore, regional heterogeneity analysis demonstrates that, in developed regions, the impact of anti-corruption on debt sustainability and the moderating impact of fiscal transparency have been bolstered by effective policy implementation. Our research findings not only unveil the influence of anti-corruption on local government debt sustainability and the crucial role of fiscal transparency, but also offer fresh insights to enable local government authorities to manage debt sustainably.
Bibliometric Mapping of the Relationships Between Accounting, Professional Accountants, and Sustainability Issues
Authors: Brabete Valeriu , Sichigea Mirela , Cîrciumaru Daniel , Goagără Daniel
Published: November 2024

The accounting profession plays a crucial role in serving public interest by establishing the foundation for sustainable development and taking on social responsibility. The growing focus on sustainability practices of companies and stakeholders has also had a significant impact on the role of accounting and professional accountants. This has led to increased expectations for greater involvement in integrating sustainability into corporate decision making at every level. We used a bibliometric analysis of academic literature as a research method to identify the relationships between accounting, professional accountants, and sustainability issues (APASI). Bibliometrix R-package and VOSviewer were used to achieve the proposed objectives. This study analyzes the performance of the scientific literature, establishes the conceptual, intellectual, and social structure of research, and identifies new research directions. A period of 37 years (1987–2024) is taken into consideration, with 2556 documents and 859 sources extracted from the Web of Science database analyzed. We offer, in an original manner, descriptive statistics and relevant landmarks of the sources, authors, publications, organizations, and countries that have contributed significantly to the development of research in this field. Interested researchers have the opportunity to identify scholars for potential collaborations and valuable study resources.
Results on Third-Order Differential Subordination for Analytic Functions Related to a New Integral Operator
Authors: Maktoof Sara Falih , Atshan Waggas Galib , Alkiffai Ameera N.
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we aim to give some results for third-order differential subordination for analytic functions in the open unit disk U=z:z∈C and z<1 involving the new integral operator μα,nm(f∗g). The results are obtained by examining pertinent classes of acceptable functions. New findings on differential subordination have been obtained. Additionally, some specific cases are documented. This work investigates appropriate classes of admissible functions, presents a novel of new integral operator, and discusses the properties of third-order differential subordination. The properties and results of the differential subordination are symmetrical to the properties of the differential superordination to form the sandwich theorems.
Assessing Logistics Service Quality in Omni-Channel Retailing Through Integrated SERVQUAL and Kano Model
Authors: Cai Lanhui , Liu Yanfeng , Lai Po-Lin , Zhu Xiaonan , Yuen Kum Fai , Wang Xueqin
Published: November 2024

Omni-channel retailing is a novel form that combines online, offline, and mobile channels to provide consumers with a seamless shopping experience. Nevertheless, the implementation of omni-channel retailing necessitates effective logistics support. Hence, the quality of logistics services is critical for omni-channel retailing services. This research aims to investigate logistics service quality (LSQ) and its impact on consumer satisfaction by combining the decomposed SERVQUAL framework, Kano model and hierarchical regression analysis. A total of 460 valid responses were obtained. Building upon the SERVQUAL framework, this study presents a comprehensive framework for evaluating omni-channel retail logistics service quality. Using the Kano model, 11 logistics service quality attributes were categorised into three categories: must-be, one-dimensional, and attractive, based on their respective impact on satisfaction. The results of the hierarchical regression analysis confirm that the attributes belonging to the must-be category exert the most significant influence on satisfaction. The findings add to theoretical studies of omni-channel retailing LSQ and provide insights for omni-channel retailers and logistics service providers.
Large-Scale Group Decision Making with Dual Feedback from Community Residents Based on the Organizational Invisible Field
Authors: Bai Jing , Ma Huaning , Xiao Zhe , Ran Jin , Li Xingyuan
Published: November 2024

In China, communities function as grassroots self-governing bodies, and the enhancement of public participation in community governance has remained a central focus of study. This paper applies the Large-Scale Group Decision-Making (LSGDM) method to the process of community self-governance and proposes a dual feedback group consensus decision-making model that takes into account the unique social relations among residents. Firstly, the concept of the Organizational Invisible Field—formed in communities by intangible social capital such as positional power and interpersonal relationships within the organization—is introduced. The definition of Invisible Field Force is utilized to measure the influence of these forms of capital on social relationships. Subsequently, drawing on field dynamic theory, the process by which residents’ preferences within the organization are shaped by the action of Invisible Field Force is explored. Secondly, acknowledging that invisible relationships can be affected by dynamic interactions during the decision-making process, the Invisible Field Force change model is constructed. Building on this, a dual feedback consensus coordination mechanism—encompassing both in-organization members and all residents—is designed. Finally, the validity and utility of the model are verified through case studies and sensitivity analyses.
Tracking Microplastics Contamination in Drinking Water Supply Chain in Haikou, China: From Source to Household Taps
Authors: Li Xiangxiang , Yu Yihan , Yang Mei , Wen Shaobai , Zhang Jun
Published: November 2024

The presence of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments has become a significant global concern due to their potential adverse effects on human health. This study aimed to investigate the contamination of MPs throughout the drinking water supply chain in Haikou City, China, and to conduct risk assessments regarding the relationship between MPs contamination and human health. The results revealed that the abundance of MPs in raw, treated, and tap water was 0.6 ± 0.6, 5.2 ± 2.7, and 1.2 ± 1.1 particles·L−1, respectively. Fragments were identified as the most prevalent shape across all samples, with the size category of 20–50 μm showing the highest abundance of MPs. Among the 11 types of polymers identified, polyethylene and polypropylene accounted for 50% and 29%, respectively. The potential risk index values were significantly higher for treated water (370.26) and tap water (303.85) compared to raw water (13.46), suggesting that plastic pipes may be a key contributor to MPs contamination in drinking water. Therefore, efforts should be directed toward developing pipes with low release rates of MPs, as well as improving detection methods for smaller particles and accurately assessing associated risks.
Research Progress on Membrane Separation Technology for Oily Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Wang Yichang , Zhang Yu , Liang Liang , Tu Feng , Li Zhongjian , Tang Xianjin , Dai Li , Li Lingli
Published: November 2024

This paper presents the research progress and future prospects of membrane separation technology for treating oily wastewater. It discusses various treatment methods tailored to different sources and characteristics of oily wastewater, summarizing the features of different membrane separation technologies and the latest advancements in their application. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for future research to focus on developing environmentally friendly and efficient coupled membrane treatment technologies, optimizing membrane material design and enhancing the environmental benefits of oily wastewater treatment.
Distinct Impacts of Prenatal and Postnatal Phthalate Exposure on Behavioral and Emotional Development in Children Aged 1.5 to 3 Years
Authors: Huang Yi-Siang , Hung Pi-Lien , Wang Liang-Jen , Tsai Chih-Min , Tsai Chang-Ku , Tiao Mao-Meng , Yu Hong-Ren
Published: November 2024

Development is a continuous process, but few studies have assessed the simultaneous impact of prenatal and postnatal phthalate exposure on children’s behavioral and emotional development. A total of 491 mother–child pairs from the general population in southern Taiwan were studied from 2021 to 2022. Urinary concentrations of bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalate metabolites—mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP), and mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP)—were measured in pregnant mothers during the second trimester and in their corresponding children aged 1.5 to 3 years. Behavioral symptoms in children were evaluated using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Odds ratios (ORs) represent a 1-unit increase in log10-transformed creatinine-corrected maternal urine concentrations. Prenatal maternal urinary MnBP levels were associated with total problems (OR = 19.32, 95% CI: 1.80–43.13, p = 0.04), anxiety (OR = 33.58, 95% CI: 2.16–521.18, p = 0.01), and sleep problems (OR = 41.34, 95% CI: 1.04–1632.84, p = 0.04) in children. Additionally, urinary MnBP levels in children correlated with total problems (OR = 7.06, 95% CI: 1.01–49.05, p = 0.04) and internalizing problems (OR = 11.04, 95% CI: 1.27–95.72, p = 0.01). These findings suggest that prenatal and postnatal exposure to dibutyl phthalate (DBP), metabolized as MnBP, distinctly affects children’s behavioral development.
Malaria Vectors and Plasmodium Transmission in Malaria-Endemic Localities of Colombia
Authors: Piedrahita Stefani , Correa Margarita M.
Published: November 2024

Anopheles species composition, abundance, and Plasmodium natural infection are important aspects to assess malaria transmission risk. In this study, these aspects were evaluated in a large number of localities in the most important malaria-endemic regions of Colombia. Mosquitoes were collected from 2012 to 2015 in 55 localities of northwestern and western Colombia. Anopheles species composition, abundance, and Plasmodium infection were estimated. A total of 13,218 Anopheles specimens were evaluated. The highest species richness was detected in the northwest, where the main vectors, An. albimanus (27.8%) and An. nuneztovari (26.7%), were the most abundant species. In the west, An. nuneztovari predominated (51.6%), followed by An. darlingi (29.2%). Six species were infected with Plasmodium, An. darlingi, An. nuneztovari, An. albimanus, An. calderoni, An. triannulatus, and An. braziliensis. Results showed that in these localities the main Colombian vectors are widely spread, which suggests a high malaria risk. Notably, this study is the first to report An. braziliensis from Colombia as being naturally infected with Plasmodium. Infection results for species that are suspected local vectors indicate the importance of conducting further studies to assess their epidemiological importance. This information provides the basis for the application of directed vector control strategies that are species-specific.
Influenza A Viruses in the Swine Population: Ecology and Geographical Distribution
Authors: Klivleyeva Nailya , Saktaganov Nurbol , Glebova Tatyana , Lukmanova Galina , Ongarbayeva Nuray , Webby Richard
Published: November 2024

Despite the efforts of practical medicine and virology, influenza viruses remain the most important pathogens affecting human and animal health. Swine are exposed to infection with all types of influenza A, B, C, and D viruses. Influenza viruses have low pathogenicity for swine, but in the case of co-infection with other pathogens, the outcome can be much more serious, even fatal. Having a high zoonotic potential, swine play an important role in the ecology and spread of influenza to humans. In this study, we review the state of the scientific literature on the zoonotic spread of swine influenza A viruses among humans, their circulation in swine populations worldwide, reverse zoonosis from humans to swine, and their role in interspecies transmission. The analysis covers a long period to trace the ecology and evolutionary history of influenza A viruses in swine. The following databases were used to search the literature: Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed. In this review, 314 papers are considered: n = 107 from Asia, n = 93 from the U.S., n = 86 from Europe, n = 20 from Africa, and n = 8 from Australia. According to the date of publication, they are conditionally divided into three groups: contemporary, released from 2011 to the present (n = 121); 2000–2010 (n = 108); and 1919–1999 (n = 85).
Whole Blood Transcriptome Analysis in Dairy Ewes Fed a Dietary Grape Pomace Supplementation
Authors: Ianni Andrea , Bennato Francesca , Martino Camillo , Saletti Maria Antonietta , Pomilio Francesco , Martino Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

The present study aims to evaluate the effect of a dietary supplementation with 10% grape pomace (GP) on the whole blood transcriptome of lactating ewes. By applying a log2FC higher than 0.5 or lower than −0.5 and a false discovery rate (FDR) <0.05, the down-regulation of genes coding for plexin C1, ethanolamine kinase 1, tax1-binding protein 1, transmembrane 9 superfamily member 2, and Beclin-1 was observed in animals that received the dietary supplementation. This aspect was also accompanied by a reduction in the blood activity of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9; p < 0.05), a gelatinase commonly involved in both acute and chronic pathological events. The ELISA test on other factors involved in inflammatory processes, interleukin 1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), as well as in the antioxidant response, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT), did not reveal any significant changes (p > 0.05). Overall, the introduction of GP in the diet of ewes gave indications of greater efficacy in preserving animal welfare, with interesting cues regarding the valorization of a by-product with a high biological value.
Social Housing of Previously Single-Caged Adult Male Cynomolgus Macaques (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Dewi Fitriya N. , Permanawati  , Saputro Suryo , Azhar Adinda D. , Putriyani Wahyu , Wyatt Jeffrey D. , Suparto Irma H. , Darusman Huda S.
Published: November 2024

Cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis; Mf) serve an essential role in the advancement of biomedical research. Aged macaques, in particular, are highly valued as animal models for the study of geriatric diseases. While social housing has become the default for nonhuman primates (NHPs), socially housing sexually mature males poses a unique challenge. Moreover, socially housing aged males that have been previously kept in single housing may pose even greater challenge and risk due to a higher likelihood of aggression. Temperament assessment plays an integral part in determining the success of social housing arrangements of NHPs. In this paper, we report our work at the Primate Research Center of IPB University in integrating behavior observation and veterinary management to socially house adult, male Mf. We describe our experience in successfully housing young-adult, male Mf (n = 8–10, aged 6 years) for over 2.5 years, and the multiple efforts to socially house a small group of previously singly housed aged, male Mf (n = 6, aged >15 years). The temperament of each Mf was considered in the planning and implementation of social housing attempts. While a simplified behavioral observation was performed for the young adults, a more rigorous PAIR-T assessment was performed on the aged Mf. A group formation was initially attempted, aiming to achieve a small group of six aged, male Mf. While this group at first showed promising outcomes, significant incidents of aggression required regrouping as pairs or triads wherein the subject combinations were determined based on temperament and dominance. A total of three attempts were made to house these aged Mf in a small group throughout the course of 17 months, and the results showed that at our facility, aged, male Mf are best housed as triads or pairs, with selections based on their temperament and dominance compatibility. We concluded that behavioral assessments and veterinary management are pivotal in supporting the social housing efforts of adult, male Mf in order to optimize their well-being.
Influence of Spawning and Nursery Ground Environmental Changes on Walleye Pollock Catches Along the Eastern Coasts of Korea and Japan After the Late-1980s Climate Regime Shift
Authors: Park Jong Won , Jung Hae Kun , Tak Yong-Jin , Kim Beom Sik , Kim Dongyoung , Lee Chung Il
Published: November 2024

The eastern coasts of Korea (ECK) and Japan (ECJ) are located at the southernmost limit of walleye pollock distribution in the Northwest Pacific. Following the climate regime shift (CRS) in the late 1980s, pollock catches in these regions have declined sharply, with different trends emerging. This study examined the relationship between environmental factors, such as sea surface temperature (SST) and habitat suitability, and changes in pollock catches from the late 1980s to 2022. From the late 1980s to the late 1990s, El Niño and positive Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) phases dominated, increasing SST in the ECK and ECJ habitats and rapidly decreasing catches. Although spawning grounds (SGs) have maintained high habitat suitability, nursery ground (NG) suitability has declined. From the late 1990s to 2022, La Niña and negative PDO phases prevailed, with SST continuing to rise along the ECK, further reducing catches. SG suitability remained high, but NG suitability declined. Along the ECJ, SST decreased after the late-1990s CRS, stabilizing catches. After the mid-2010s, the SST increased along the ECJ, reducing pollock catches, although SG suitability remained high. This study elucidates SST changes during early life stages and their effects on pollock catch, habitat, and resources in future marine environments.
Preloading Clearance Effects on Hydrodynamic Characteristics of Preloading Spiral Case and Concrete in Pump Mode
Authors: Zhang Shaozheng , Zhang Xiaopeng , Luo Yutong , Gao Tiankuo , Wang Zhengwei
Published: November 2024

The spiral case plays a role in providing stable and uniform water flow in the pump-turbine unit, and the overall structure with the surrounding concrete is an important foundation for the safe and stable operation of the unit and power plant. In order to clarify the comprehensive bearing capacity of preloading steel spiral case under pump operating conditions, this study is based on the theory of the fluid–structure coupling and contact model and uses ANSYS CFX 2021 R1 and mechanical to analyze the flow fluctuation characteristics and dynamic structural response of a preloading steel spiral case and surrounding concrete under different preloading pressures in the intermediate head pump condition. The results indicate that the main frequency of pressure fluctuations inside the main frequency (1 fn) of pressure fluctuations inside the spiral case is influenced by the unstable flow. The contact state between the preloading steel spiral case and concrete is closely related to the relative magnitude of preloading pressure and hydraulic pressure. Higher preloading pressure can lead to an increase in initial preloading clearance, resulting in a decrease in contact area. The vortex motion inside the spiral case is the main factor affecting the distribution of deformation. The rotor–stator interaction also has a certain impact on the vibration of the spiral case structure, even though the influence of rotor–stator interaction on pressure fluctuation inside the spiral case is already small. The monitoring points where the maximum values of static stress and dynamic stress are located are different. Increasing the preloading pressure value does not always guarantee the safety of concrete structures, as the sticking contact area in early contact transfers most of the stress of the spiral case, resulting in significant stress concentration. Under the working conditions of this study, the concrete in contact with the inner edge and nose vane is subjected to excessive loads. Therefore, it is necessary to reinforce the structure with steel bars or other methods to improve its tensile strength. A minimum preloading pressure value of 3.2 MPa is beneficial for reducing the risk of concrete cracking. The research results can provide a deeper understanding of the behavior of preloading steel spiral cases under pump conditions and guide optimization design.
The Spatial Variation in Organotin Contamination in Different Environmental Media: A Case of the Lower Yangtze River in China
Authors: Sun Jinnuo , Yang Ya , Fan Suyu , Wang Rui , Huang Qinghui
Published: November 2024

With the global ban on tributyltin (TBT), the pollution of triphenyltin (TPhT) is an emerging issue in some aquatic ecosystems. In this study, we investigated the concentrations of typical butyltin and phenyltin compounds in the surface water and sediments in the lower Yangtze River, analyzed their occurrence and sources, and assessed their ecological risks. The findings indicate that butyltin and phenyltin compounds are widespread. The total concentration of organotin compounds in surface water was as high as 42.41 ng Sn/L, with an average of 25.71 ng Sn/L, and the total concentration of organotins in sediments reached up to 111.5 ng Sn/g dw, averaging 61.1 ng Sn/g dw. Since the implementation of the AFS Convention, the concentration of organotins in surface water has been significantly reduced. However, the ecological risk of TBT is still high, and the risk of TPhT is also noteworthy. The findings also suggest that the primary source of butyltins in the lower Yangtze River is historical input residues. In contrast, the main source of PhTs is the recent input of agricultural runoff. Therefore, organotin contamination in the lower Yangtze River has changed, but its governance still presents challenges.
Adapting to Climate Change: Reducing Nonpoint Source Pollution in Agriculture: A Case Study in Gyeseong Stream, Korea
Authors: Kwon Heongak , Choi Suyeon , Jo Chang Dae
Published: November 2024

Climate change scenarios have been used to evaluate future climate change impacts and develop adaptation measures to mitigate potential damage. This study investigated strategies to reduce nonpoint source loads in an agriculturally dominated watershed and adapt to climate change despite uncertainty. We also investigated strategies for adapting to future meteorological conditions characterized by uncertainty. We utilized the latest future climate change scenarios—shared socioeconomic pathways—and explored measures to reduce nonpoint source loads by implementing nonpoint pollution abatement facilities in a watershed model. The simulation results indicate that the future frequency of rainfall events may decrease based on observations and the types and features of rainfall events in the scenarios. However, the variability of runoff loads in the context of future climate scenarios may increase because of factors influencing surface runoff, including the amount and intensity of rainfall. Nonpoint source loads are expected to exhibit high uncertainty in the future. Finally, the optimal solution can be determined through a simulated evaluation of the cost–benefit of installing the abatement facilities, considering the abatement efficiency and maintenance period. Overall, implementing effective management practices is crucial for reducing nonpoint source loads resulting from agricultural activities while adapting to increasingly variable meteorological conditions.
Analysis of the Occurrence Conditions and Formation Mechanism of Mineral Water in the Southern Region of Yaoquan Mountain, Wudalianchi
Authors: Li Chang , Shan Xubin , Li Chuansheng , Hao Shuren , Cheng Bin , Lu Chuanlei , Zhao Jian , Wang Xu , Su Ziliang
Published: November 2024

Because of its unique geographical properties, the Yaoquanshan area of Wudalianchi City, Heilongjiang Province, contains rich mineral water resources. We have carried out much research on the mineral water in the Yaoquanshan area of Wudalianchi City, which has also been supplemented by of previous studies. In this paper, through a controlled audio geoelectromagnetic method, geological drilling, groundwater level monitoring and water quality analysis, the structure, regional geology, hydrogeology and water geochemistry, as well as the characteristics of the distribution of metasilicate mineral water and natural soda water, the formation mechanism and the recharge, runoff and excretion of groundwater in the study area, are discussed. The results can provide a theoretical basis for the exploitation and utilization of mineral water resources in the southern region of the Wudalianchi Pharmaceutical Spring Mountain.
An Approach to Motor Winding Optimization for HEFS Machine-Based Integrated On-Board Charging Systems
Authors: Tong Minghao , Chen Yudong , Sun Le
Published: November 2024

In this article, to enhance the power output capability and system efficiency during charging, an approach to motor winding optimization for HEFS machine-based integrated on-board charging systems is proposed and analyzed. Firstly, the design process of the HEFS motor and the power electromagnetic components are analyzed to find the entry point for the integrated system optimization. Then, the comprehensive optimization process for the winding parameters of the HEFS motors in the integrated charging system is presented. Moreover, an integrated system based on a five-phase HEFS motor is used as an example for simulation verification. Finally, an experimental platform is built based on a 5 kW five-phase HEFS prototype. The experimental results are consistent with the simulation results. Therefore, the proposed comprehensive optimization method for windings can make the motor more suitable for building an integrated on-board charging system without affecting the electromagnetic performance of the motor. The optimization results indicate an improvement in output power and efficiency of the system in charging mode.
Dokumen Perancangan Perangkat Lunak Pelayanan Laboratorium UPTD Dinas Lingkungan Hidup Kota Serang
Authors: Darip Mochammad , Hamdan Hamdan
Published: November 2024

UPTD Laboratorium Dinas Lingkungan Hidup Kota Serang memiliki tujuan yaitu mampu manghasilkan data yang valid dan reliable, tidak terbantahkan, serta dapat dipertanggungjawabkan secara ilmiah dan secara hukum. Namun tujuan tersebut tidak akan tercapai jika tidak diimbangi dengan satuan sistem yang handal, oleh karena itu perlu dibuatkan serangkaian prosedur agar bisa terintegrasi ke dalam sebuah satu kesatuan sistem. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah sebagai rekomendasi dan gambaran informasi terkait sistem atau aplikasi yang akan diimplementasikan yang berorientasi pada kebutuhan user demi meningkatkan sistem layanan laboaratorium, disamping itu rancangan dokumen yang peneliti buat diharapkan dapat memberikan penjelasan atau gambaran informasi untuk pengembangan sistem layanan berkelanjutan. Hasil dari rancangan diimplementasikan menggunakan bahasa pemrograman PHP, semua data-data terkait layanan pengujiaan diintegrasikan menggunakan satu database. Dalam mengukur tingkat keberhasilan dari hasil rancangan dokumen tersebut dilakukan pengujian dengan pendekatan yaitu user acceptance test baik dari sisi pelanggan atau mitra dan dari sisi admin atau staff laboratorium. Hasil pengujian dapat disimpulkan bahwa rancangan dokumen sudah sesuai dengan kebutuhan user hal ini bisa dilihat dari nilai rata-rata pengujian betha test sebesar 90,9%, dan pengujian 9 menu use case dari 20 instrumen yang diuji dinyatakan berhasil dengan menggunakan pendekatan metode blackbox test.
العوامل المؤثرة في تكوين السمات الريادية لدى طلاب الجامعات المصرية
Authors: زيدان عمرو علاء الدين
Published: November 2024

تناولت الدراسة استكشاف السمات الريادية المميزة لطلاب الجامعات المصرية، والعوامل الموقفية الفارقة في تكوين هذه السمات، اعتمادا على أربعة فروض رئيسة، وعينة مكونة من ١٧٥٥ مفردة من كليات الهندسة والتجارة بست جامعات مصرية. فتم اختبار تأثير المتغيرات الديموغرافية؛ ومتغيرات الخلفية الاسرية؛ ومتغيرات الخلفية الريادية للطالب؛ ومتغيرات البيئة الجامعية على تكوين السمات الريادية السبع التي توصل إليها تحليل العوامل وهي: الاستعداد الريادي العام، والاستقلالية، والتحكم الذاتي في الأمور، والدافع إلى الإنجاز، والحرص على تكوين الثروة، والثقة بالنفس، والميل إلى تحمل المخاطر، باستخدام اسلوب تحليل التباين أحادي الاتجاه، وفيما عدا متغيرات الخلفية الأسرية للطالب، التي جاءت النتائج المتعلقة بها ضعيفة نسبياًّ، استطاع الباحث الحصول على نتائج مؤيدة بدرجات متفاوتة لباقي فروض الدراسة، واختتم الباحث الدراسة بمناقشة النتائج ودلالاتها، وتقديم مقترحات بدراسات مستقبلية.
Challenges of Lab-Scale Study and the Influence of Wet-Finishing Agents in the Leather Dyeing Process
Authors: Queiroz Vânia , Agustini Caroline , Gutterres Mariliz , Schwaab Marcio
Published: November 2024

The leather production process includes several interconnected steps. Dyeing is a critical step as it is responsible for the attractive visual appearance and quality properties that meet customer expectations. Obtaining homogeneous leather with effective dyeing is a challenge for tanneries, as leather is a complex and heterogeneous material. Effective dyeing depends on good execution of the process, raw materials and the performance of previous steps. To reduce costs and optimize processes, laboratory-scale tests precede industrial implementation. However, scaling-up from lab-scale to industrial scale production requires a deep understanding of critical variables that directly affect dyeing quality and efficiency. This work investigates factors that affect dyeing, aiming to understand the transition from the laboratory scale to the industrial scale. Bath exhaustion and dye penetration tests were used to evaluate the influence of the variables mass, retanning agent, dyeing auxiliary and type of agitation on leather dyeing. Results show that the influence of retanning, dyeing and fatliquoring agents on leather dyeing demonstrated that for small pieces of leather, the difference in thickness will affect more on the dye penetration than on the exhaustion of the bath due to the low mechanical action generated. While the exhaustion will be more affected by the products used. For leathers with different masses, the greater mass was more influenced by the products used, presenting a shorter penetration time when retanning, dyeing auxiliary and higher dye concentration were used, a behavior expected for leather. This improvement with the use of auxiliaries is associated with the mechanical action caused by the greater mass of the drum, which was not possible with the smaller mass.