bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Hanging up the boots, picking up the whistle’: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the player-to-coach transition in elite football
Authors: Mills Laura
Published: July 2024

Athletes encounter a complex decision-making process when it comes to their athletic retirement. While some athletes step away from their sport entirely, others opt to pursue a coaching career within it. Recent pedagogical research has revealed the ubiquitous nature of this phenomenon within the elite academy setting. However, despite the prevalence of this coaching pathway, there remains a lack of literature concerning this unique career transition within sports psychology. By providing nuanced and textured accounts of the transition from athletic retirement to the elite coaching environment, this study sought to broaden our understanding of the lived-experience of the player-turned-coach in elite football. The subsequent study used semi-structured interviews and interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) to collect and analyse the first-hand accounts of elite academy coaches who were former professional footballers in the EPL and EFL. Interpretation of the coaches’ own sensemaking allowed us to derive meaning through hermeneutic methods based on Heideggerian philosophical traditions, while convergent and divergent themes were revealed by applying an idiographic approach. The phenomenological, hermeneutic, and idiographic aspects of this investigation serve to underpin the epistemological and ontological tenets of the methodology applied in this study. IPA was chosen as a means of better understanding the perspective of coaches who have experienced this unique journey and how they navigated the re-negotiation of their athletic identity whilst simultaneously developing their coaching philosophy. Phenomenological methods view the participant as the “expert”; therefore, no hypothesis is required. However, we hoped to ascertain: [1] how the athletic identity carries over into coaching philosophy; [2] whether this linear transition mitigates the sense of loss often associated with athletic retirement; [3] how returning to coach at the club in which they developed influences the independent formation of beliefs and practices; and [4] whether there is a risk of perpetuation of practice, as clubs favour their former players over outside candidates. This study sought to understand the lived experience of the player-to-coach transition and aimed to provide insight into this process to better facilitate the athletes and coaches on either side of this phenomenon.
The bitter taste of the war Memories
Authors: Bawankiewicz Wiktor
Published: July 2024

Wspomnienia
Principles for numerical compensation of elastic deformations in computerized numerical control machine tools
Authors: Kuznetsov Alexander P. , Koriath Hans-Joachim
Published: July 2024

Nowadays, precision methods for computerized numerical control (CNC) machine tools analyze geometric, kinematic, dynamic, and thermal errors separately. This article aims at numerical compensation of elastic deformations in CNC machine tools. A digital twin of CNC machine tools provides physical relationships based on SI units, precision error predictions, and digital methods for numerical compensation of elastic deformations. The evaluation of elastic error compensation modules is given for geometric, kinematic, dynamic, and thermal errors. The summary focuses on the most important results and provides an outlook on future applications.
Influence of Mepiquat Chloride on Canopy Architecture, Yield and Quality of Drought-Stressed Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) at Different Scheduling Period
Authors: Malima Mashenene , Kurt Orhan , Hacıkamiloğlu Muhammet Safa
Published: July 2024

A field study was conducted at the Eastern Mediterranean Agricultural Research Institute, Adana, Turkey, during the 2022/23 cropping seasons to examine the impact of Mepiquat chloride dosage applied at different intervals to optimize growth, yield characteristics enhancement and improve fiber quality attributes of cotton. The study employed a split-split plot design with three replications. The results revealed that differences among treatments were not statistically significant for most parameters investigated. The observed discrepancies indicated that all treatments tested in 2012 delayed cotton development, whereas in 2023, they led to premium fibers. In 2023, the fiber percentage was highest in the control treatment, and in 2022, it was highest at 400 mL·ha-1. Across all years, the Selin variety exhibited the highest fiber percentage when Mepiquat chloride was applied at the bolling stage. The shoot-root ratio was highest at 400 mL·ha-1 during harvest in 2022 and at 0 mL·ha-1 during the reproductive stage in 2023. Overall, the results demonstrated that the application of Mepiquat chloride altered the physiological characteristics of the cotton plants, leading to bottom-up effects on cotton performance. This implies that the effectiveness of Mepiquat chloride in cotton production to alleviate drought stress is influenced by weather-related conditions.
Critical Surface Heat Flows and the Future Evolution of Volcanism and Geothermal Power Resources on the Earth
Authors: M.Kumar Varnana , T.E Girish , N.Sathyan Thara , P.E Eapen , Longhinos Biju , J. Binoy
Published: July 2024

Relevant observations suggest that in geothermal power resources and volcanic regions in Earth the mean heat flow is either comparable or greater than the current global mean heat flow of this planet. We have inferred that critical or minimum heat flow required to sustain geothermal provinces (T >1500C) is at least 90 mWm-2 and the same required to sustain active volcanoes in Earth is at least 100 mWm-2.The volcanism in Venus is found have declined significantly during the past 300 Ma. It is suggested that Earth may lose significant part of its current active volcanoes and geothermal power resources in the next 300-500 Ma if the global mean heat flow in Earth is decreasing at a rate of 5.76 mW per 100 Ma. At the current inferred maximum rate of mantle cooling (20o C per 100 Myrs) the plate tectonics in Earth is likely to cease within 750 Myrs from now. The critical mean surface heat flux for sustaining plate tectonics in Earth is inferred to be around 50-55 mW/m2.
Implementing Replica Set: Strategy to Improve the Performance of NoSQL Database Cluster in MongoDB
Authors: Uriawan Wisnu , Fauzan Ridwan Ahmad , Faroj Rifky Zaini , Pitriani Pitriani , Firmansyah Reski
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the implementation and performance benefits of using a MongoDB replica set compared to a single node setup. The primary objective was to evaluate the efficiency and reliability improvements provided by replication in a NoSQL database cluster. The research involved configuring a single node and a three-node replica set, followed by conducting performance tests using CRUD operations on both setups. The results indicated that while the single node exhibited faster write operations, the replica set significantly improved read performance and provided high availability and fault tolerance. The findings highlight the advantages of using a replica set for applications requiring robust data access and consistent performance under varying workloads.
Study on Thermal Reflection Characteristics and Mechanism of Composite Inorganic Coatings
Authors: Shang Jun , Wang Mingyang , Wang Pei , Li Guoliang , Yang Mengyao , Li Yang
Published: July 2024

This study examined the thermal reflective properties and mechanisms of composite inorganic coatings applied to various wall types. It evaluated the influence of these coatings on the thermal insulation and reflectivity of walls. The findings indicate that coating application markedly enhances the wall's thermal insulation capabilities and increases the heat flux reflection ratio. These results offer crucial theoretical backing and practical guidance for the future use of coating technologies in construction. By refining the coating formulations and application processes, the thermal insulation properties of walls can be further enhanced, thus making a significant contribution to building energy efficiency and environmental protection. Consequently, this research provides essential references and insights for advancing coating technology in the construction industry.
Research Progress on the Mechanisms of Terrestrial Plant Uptake, Transport, and Growth Inhibition Responses to Micro (nano) Plastics
Authors: Yin Shuxuan
Published: July 2024

Micro (nano) plastics are emerging pollutants and their gradual accumulation in soil due to factors such as improper wastewater processing, plastic film abuse and atmospheric deposition could pose a significant threat to the environment. However, there is limited research on the uptake and transposition of micro (nano) plastics by terrestrial plants and the effects of microplastics on terrestrial plant growth. Therefore, the sources of plastics in soil as well as the uptake and transposition pathways of micro (nano) plastics in terrestrial plants are systematically summarized in this study. The effects of micro (nano) plastics on plants and their mechanisms are thoroughly discussed, which mainly affect the growth and development of plants by blocking roots, triggering oxidative damage and altering the nature of the soil and the microbial community as well as the combined toxic effects with other pollutants. Future research should strengthen the in-situ experiments to study the mechanisms by which soil micro (nano) plastics affect the uptake and transposition of individual plants and plant growth. It should also focus on the factors affecting the uptake of micro-(nano) plastics, the behaviour of micro-(nano) plastics in soil and plant uptake, transposition processes and their mechanisms and combined effects of micro-(nano) plastics and pathogens on plants. Moreover, new detection technologies should be developed to monitor their impacts on ecosystems to better manage their potential risks to the environment.
Optimization of Tool Wear and Cutting Parameters in SCCO2-MQL Ultrasonic Vibration Milling of SiCp/Al Composites
Authors: Zhang Huiping , Wang Bowen , Qu Liqiang , Wang Xinran
Published: July 2024

Silicon carbide particle-reinforced aluminum matrix (SiCp/Al) composites are significant lightweight metal matrix composites extensively utilized in precision instruments and aerospace sectors. Nevertheless, the inclusion of rigid SiC particles exacerbates tool wear in mechanical machining, resulting in a decline in the quality of surface finish. This work undertakes a comprehensive investigation into the problem of tool wear in SiCp/Al composite materials throughout the machining process. Initially, a comprehensive investigation was conducted to analyze the effects of cutting velocity vc, feed per tooth fz, milling depth ap, and milling width ae on tool wear during high-speed milling under SCCO2-MQL (Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Minimum Quantity Lubrication) ultrasonic vibration conditions. Furthermore, a prediction model for tool wear was developed by employing the orthogonal test method and multiple linear regression. The model's relevance and accuracy were confirmed using F-tests and t-tests. Ultimately, through the utilization of a genetic algorithm, the milling parameters were optimized, resulting in the identification of the most optimal combination of parameters. Empirical findings suggest that the careful selection of milling parameters can significantly mitigate tool wear, extend the lifespan of the tool, and enhance the quality of the surface. This work serves as a significant point of reference for the processing of SiCp/Al composite materials.
IoT Traffic Classification and Anomaly Detection Method based on Deep Autoencoders
Authors: Xin Qi , Xu Zeqiu , Guo Linfeng , Zhao Fanyi , Wu Binbin
Published: July 2024

This study investigates anomaly detection of IoT device traffic using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Variational Autoencoders (VAE) to enhance the detection capability of security threats in IoT environments. A series of hardware configurations, software environments, and hyperparameters were utilized to optimize the training and testing processes of the models. The CNN model demonstrates robust classification performance, achieving an accuracy rate of 95.85% on the test dataset, effectively distinguishing between different types of IoT device traffic. Meanwhile, the VAE model exhibits proficient anomaly detection capabilities by effectively capturing abnormal patterns in the data using reconstruction loss and KL divergence. The combined use of CNN and VAE models offers a comprehensive solution to cybersecurity challenges in IoT environments. Future research directions include exploring diverse IoT traffic data, practical deployment for validation, and further optimization of model structures and parameters to improve performance and applicability.
The Effect of Monthly Disposable Soft Contact Lenses on Retinal Straylight
Authors: Ikaunieks Gatis , Petrovica Inese
Published: July 2024

Purpose of research was to determine changes in optical quality for monthly disposable soft contact lenses (SCL) wearers with new and monthly worn SCL. Retinal straylight was assessed in SCL wearers using a C-Quant straylight meter. The study included 33 participants (age 22 ± 1.4 years) who wore monthly disposable silicone hydrogel contact lenses. Measurements were taken with month-old SCL that had been worn for no more than 4 hours. Participants then replaced the old lenses with new ones. After a 15-minute adaptation period, straylight measurements were taken with the new SCL. A questionnaire was administered to all participants, inquiring about vision complaints and the type of contact lens material used. The decimal logarithm of the stray-light parameter, log(s), was notably higher with month-old SCL (log(s) = 0.97±0.17) than with brand-new SCL (log(s) = 0.86±0.15), p < 0.001. The average increase in retinal straylight after a month of SCL use was log(s) = 0.11 ± 0.08. The questionnaire revealed that 35% of participants observed a reduction in visual quality after wearing the contact lenses for a month. Results showed that monthly disposable soft contact lenses could reduce visual quality when scheduled replacement time has been reached.
Exploring the Role of Digital Transformation in Procurement: Voices from Industry Leaders
Authors: Cooper Mason
Published: July 2024

This qualitative research explores the role of digital transformation in procurement through insights gathered from interviews with industry leaders. Digital technologies such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Big Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Blockchain are examined for their impact on operational efficiency, strategic procurement management, supplier relationships, and sustainability practices. Findings reveal that these technologies streamline processes, enhance decision-making capabilities, and improve transparency, thereby enabling organizations to achieve greater agility and competitive advantage. Strategic factors including leadership commitment, strategic investments, and digital skills development emerge as crucial for navigating challenges such as organizational resistance, data security, and integration complexities. The study underscores the transformative potential of digital transformation in procurement, emphasizing its role in driving innovation, fostering sustainability, and aligning procurement practices with broader organizational goals. Looking forward, the research suggests that organizations must continue to innovate and adapt to technological advancements to maintain resilience and leadership in a digital economy. By integrating digital strategies effectively, organizations can enhance operational efficiencies, strengthen supplier relationships, and promote ethical business practices, ultimately positioning themselves for sustained success.
Customer Satisfaction and Supplier Collaboration in Italian Restaurant Operations
Authors: Warwick Isabelle
Published: July 2024

This qualitative study explores the dynamics of customer satisfaction and supplier collaboration within Italian restaurant operations. Through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and document analysis, the research investigates key factors influencing these relationships. Trust and communication emerged as foundational elements, crucial for ensuring reliable ingredient supply and maintaining culinary authenticity. Quality and authenticity of ingredients were identified as primary drivers of customer satisfaction, underscoring the strategic role of suppliers in delivering superior dining experiences. Customer feedback played a pivotal role in shaping operational practices, highlighting the iterative process of adapting to customer preferences to enhance service delivery and loyalty. Emotional intelligence among managers facilitated effective supplier relationships, fostering collaborative partnerships and navigating operational challenges with empathy and skill. Economic considerations were vital in balancing cost efficiencies with quality standards, guiding strategic decisions in supplier management. Technological integration enhanced supply chain management, optimizing logistics and responsiveness to market demands. The adoption of sustainable sourcing practices reinforced restaurants’ commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, aligning with consumer preferences for ethical dining options. The findings suggest actionable insights for restaurant managers to optimize supplier collaborations, enhance operational efficiency, and sustain competitive advantage in the hospitality industry.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Supplier Relationship Management Tools in E-Commerce
Authors: Grant Oliver
Published: July 2024

Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) tools play a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and competitiveness within e-commerce supply chains. This qualitative research explores the effectiveness of SRM tools in optimizing procurement processes, mitigating risks, and fostering collaborative partnerships with suppliers. The study employs semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders in diverse e-commerce sectors to gather insights into the implementation and outcomes of SRM tools. Findings reveal that technological advancements, including AI, blockchain, and data analytics, facilitate real-time communication, decision-making, and supply chain visibility, thereby enabling organizations to achieve cost savings and operational efficiencies. Enhanced supplier relationships through SRM tools contribute to collaborative innovation, faster product development cycles, and improved customer satisfaction. However, challenges such as technological complexity, regulatory compliance, and supplier resistance necessitate strategic management and investment in cybersecurity and compliance frameworks. The research underscores the importance of executive sponsorship, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement in driving successful SRM implementations.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF DIGITAL EDUCATION IN THE CONTEXT OF TEACHING DISCIPLINES FROM THE POINT OF VIEW OF THE PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION
Authors: Godz Nataliia
Published: July 2024

The article represents the author’s first step in researching the futuristic aspect of future pedagogy and the education system from the standpoint of philosophy and social and pedagogical, medical and psychological sciences. The article is devoted to analytical research and comparative analysis of digital education in China, Lithuania and Ukraine. The positive and negative features of digital education were investigated using the comparative method. It has been proven that modernity without taking into account the knowledge of past methods of technical means of learning will not be complete even in the era of digitalization. The significance of the human component in pedagogy, which cannot be replaced by any artificial intelligence, is substantiated.
EMPLOYEES WITH DISABILITIES AS INTERNAL STAKEHOLDERS OF ORGANISATIONS
Authors: Manczak Iryna , Bajak Maria
Published: July 2024

Organisation should strive to develop lasting relationships with its stakeholders, particularly its employees, who are the cornerstone of the institution’s activities. For this purpose, its strategy should include activities aimed at developing and equalising opportunities for all employees, including those with disabilities. This article aims to present the issue of employees with disabilities as internal stakeholders of an organisation. It outlines areas of support for the analysed social group, including the values provided by the institution. Measures applicable to implementing the concept of corporate social responsibility towards the social group under analysis are also outlined.
SOCIAL SUPPORT OF MIGRANT CITIZENS OF UKRAINE IN THE NEW SOCIOCULTURAL ENVIRONMENT (ON THE EXAMPLE OF PORTUGAL)
Authors: Grybko Olga , Kharkivska-Dziuba Zhanna
Published: July 2024

This article studies the integration and adaptation processes of Ukrainians, especially those with the status of temporary protection, in order to understand their interaction with the new socio-cultural environment (using the example of Portugal). The issue of the interaction of Ukrainian migrants with their homeland, their social support is highlighted. Analytical conclusions were drawn on the basis of the "Great Research of the Community in Portugal", which was carried out as part of the project "Development of the Ukrainian Community Abroad during the War of Russia against Ukraine" (in cooperation with the Embassy of Ukraine in the Portuguese Republic and the Ukrainian Association in Portugal Associação " Descoberta de momentos", in the period from November 15 to December 25, 2023).
QUALITY OF LIFE AS AN INDICATOR OF OVERALL SOCIAL EFFICIENCY OF THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION SYSTEM
Authors: Karpenko Grygorii
Published: July 2024

The article substantiates the need to assess the effectiveness of the public administration system in terms of its ability to ensure an adequate quality of life for the country's citizens. Based on a critical analysis of the main approaches to assessing the quality of public administration, the results of applying the index method and describes individual indices that allow assessing the efficiency and socio-economic orientation of public administration are given. The main methodological tasks are identified, the solution of which will allow to achieve maximum efficiency of the integrated indicator of quality of life. A conclusion is made about the importance of proper selection of indicators and formation of a sufficient and complete system of indicators for the evaluation procedure, with the aim of competent solution of management tasks.
Eurasian spruce bark beetle detects lanierone using a highly expressed specialist odorant receptor, present in several functional sensillum types
Authors: Yuvaraj Jothi Kumar , Kandasamy Dineshkumar , Roberts Rebecca E. , Hansson Bill S. , Gershenzon Jonathan , Andersson Martin N.
Published: July 2024

Background. Insects detect odours using odorant receptors (ORs) expressed in olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) in the antennae. Ecologically important odours are often detected by selective and abundant OSNs; hence, ORs with high antennal expression. However, little is known about the function of highly expressed ORs in beetles, since few ORs have been functionally characterized. Here, we functionally characterized the most highly expressed OR (ItypOR36) in the bark beetle Ips typographus L. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae), a major pest of spruce. We hypothesized that this OR would detect a compound important to beetle fitness, such as a pheromone component. We next investigated the antennal distribution of this OR using single sensillum recordings (SSR) and in situ hybridization, followed by field- and laboratory experiments to evaluate the behavioural effects of the discovered ligand.
Results. We expressed ItypOR36 in HEK293 cells and challenged it with 64 ecologically relevant odours. The OR responded exclusively to the monoterpene-derived ketone lanierone with high sensitivity. Lanierone is used in chemical communication in North American Ips species, but it has never been shown to be produced by I. typographus, nor has it been studied in relation to this species’ sensory physiology. Single sensillum recordings revealed a novel and abundant lanierone-responsive OSN class with the same specific response as ItypOR36. Strikingly, these OSNs were co-localized in sensilla together with seven different previously described OSN classes. Field experiments revealed that low release rates of lanierone inhibited beetle attraction to traps baited with aggregation pheromone, with strongest effects on males. Female beetles were attracted to lanierone in laboratory walking bioassays.
Conclusions. Our study highlights the importance of the so-called ‘reverse chemical ecology’ approach to identify novel semiochemicals for ecologically important insect species. Our discovery of the co-localization pattern involving the lanierone OSN class suggests organisational differences in the peripheral olfactory sense between insect orders. Our behavioural experiments show that lanierone elicits different responses in the two sexes, which also depend on whether beetles are walking in the laboratory or flying in the field. Unravelling the source of lanierone in the natural environment of I. typographus is required to understand these context-dependent behaviours.
DeepBioisostere: Deep Learning-based Bioisosteric Replacements for Optimization of Multiple Molecular Properties
Authors: Kim Woo Youn , Kim Hyeongwoo , Moon Seokhyun , Zhung Wonho , Lim Jaechang
Published: July 2024

Optimizing molecules to improve their properties is a fundamental challenge in drug design. For a fine-tuning of molecular properties without losing bio-activity validated in advance, the concept of bioisosterism has emerged. Many in silico methods have been proposed for discovering bioisosteres, but they require expert knowledge for their applications or are restricted to known databases. Here, we introduce DeepBioisostere, a deep generative model to design suitable bioisosteric replacements. Our model allows a fully automated bioisosteric replacement by intelligently selecting fragments for both removal and insertion. Through various scenarios of multiple property control, we showcase the model's capability to delicately tune specific properties, addressing the challenge in molecular optimization. Our model's innovation lies in its capacity to design a bioisosteric replacement reflecting the compatibility with the surroundings of the modification site, facilitating the control of sophisticated properties that depend on the overall molecular structures such as drug-likeness. DeepBioisostere can also provide previously unseen bioisosteric replacements, highlighting its capability for exploring diverse chemical modifications rather than just mining them from known databases. Lastly, we used DeepBioisostere to improve the sensitivity of a known SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitor to the E166V mutant that exhibits drug resistance to the inhibitor, demonstrating its potential application in drug discovery.
Underlying physiological mechanism and expression analysis of important genes associated with extended shelf-life in cucumber
Authors: Suresh Pyla , kumari khushboo , Kenchikoppa Malatesha , Nandi Laxman , Munshi Anilabh Das , Boopalakrishnan G , S Gopala Krishnan , Soora Naresh Kumar , Behera Tushar Kranti , Dey Shyam
Published: July 2024

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is one of the most important vegetable crops cultivated worldwide. The fruits of the cucumber are highly perishable and become unfit for consumption within 2–3 days of harvesting when stored under ambient conditions. Understanding the physio-chemical basis of extended shelf-life and associated molecular mechanisms was the main objective of the present study. Seven diverse genotypes for shelf-life-related traits were investigated for important physio-chemical characteristics and expression of the essential genes at different developmental stages. Photosynthetic activities, physiological loss in weight (PLW), fruit firmness, change in pH of the fruits and chlorophyll content in the leaves and fruits were estimated. Expression analysis of selected genes associated with cell wall modification, ethylene and cytokine biosynthesis were also investigated at 5 different developmental stages of the fruits. Photosynthetic rates were higher in the genotype with extended shelf-life, indicating its role in maintaining the cell wall integrity. However, the retention of the green colour of the fruits was not associated with the photosynthetic rate. Lower PLW, greater fruit firmness and minor changes in pH of the fruits were recorded in fruits with higher shelf-life. Significantly higher expression of the cell wall degradation genes except for Xyloglucan endonuclease with the development of the fruits was recorded in the genotypes with poor shelf-life. More robust expression of the cytokinin biosynthesis genes like IPT, cytokinin oxidase 1 and cytokinin dehydrogenase in the genotype with poor shelf-life indicated the absence of correlation of this unique trait with the functional stay-green trait. Higher expression of the ethylene biosynthesis genes was recorded in the genotypes with poorer shelf-life. The nature of the photosynthesis rate, chlorophyll content and expression of the cytokine pathway genes indicated the cosmetic nature of the novel type of stay-green trait of the fruits after harvest. Differential expression of cell wall modification genes in combination with the lower chlorophyll catalytic activities were the principal factors associated with extended shelf-life in cucumbers. This study provides a solid foundation for understanding the role of physio-chemical traits and critical genes related to extended shelf-life in cucumbers.
Water resources safety assessment by combining an improved analytical comparison method with the alterable vague sets method in a typical karst region-A case study
Authors: Peng Tao , Zhao Lei , Wang Peng , Xiao Lujun
Published: July 2024

Quantitative evaluations on water resources safety in karst areas are of great significance for enacting logical water resources development policies, promoting the sustainability of water resources and realizing sustainable socioeconomic progress. Therefore, according to special characteristics of hydrology and water resources in karst regions of southwestern China, this study constructed an evaluation indicator frame of water resources safety from five aspects: Water resources occurring (WRO), Water environment condition (WEC), “Engineering” water scarcity (EWS), Water resources utilization (WRU) and Water resources management (WRM). Combined weights of assessment indexes were calculated by analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and entropy-right method, and an assessment model of water resources safety in karst regions was constructed based on the coupling of analytical comparison method and alterable vague sets. Taking Guiyang as an example, the water resources safety situation of Guiyang from 2013 to 2022 was assessed with this model and its main obstacle factors were analyzed. Results indicate that the level of water resources safety in Guiyang is on the rise, and the safety level rises from unsafe level to relatively safe level. Water resources utilization is the primary element affecting water resources safety of Guiyang. Total water resources volume, water yielding modulus, consumptive use of water per 10,000 Yuan GDP and exploitation and utilization rate of water resources are primary obstacle factors to the improvement of water resources safety level. The improvement of water resources provision, water resources using efficiency and water resources management all show that human behaviour has a significant impact on water resources safety. The assessment model can impersonally reflect temporal evolution features and main constraints of water resources safety in karst regions, and evaluation results are close to the actual situation, which can provide an effective, feasible and intuitive method for water resources safety evaluation in karst areas.
Dog deworming for control of echinococcosis by smart collar versus manual work: A 24-month field application and efficacy evaluation from a prospective, randomized, double masked, manual deworming-controlled trial
Authors: Yang Shi-Jie , Yang Yuancheng , Xu Xuenian , Sun Chenqing , Zhang Xiaojuan , Li Fan , Hu Jianhong , Zhong Baolin , Wang Liying , Wang Ying , Han Shuai , Xue Chuizhao , Wang Xu , Kui Yan , Liu Baixue , Fang Chun , Kui Guoxiang , Shen Zonglin , Zhou Xiaonong , Feng Yu , Li Shizhu , Xiao Ning , Li Yuhua
Published: July 2024

Background Echinococcosis is a significant parasitic disease that affects multiple species and poses both public health risks and substantial socio-economic burdens. Regular deworming to dogs is a highly effective control measure advocated by the WHO. In this study we aimed to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness on delivery of praziquantel (PQZ) baits to dogs via smart collar and manpower.Methods We conducted a prospective, randomized, double masked, manual deworming-controlled field trial in Tianzhu Tibetan Autonomous County (Tianzhu County), a cystic echinococcosis endemic area, Gansu Province, China. Cluster random sampling was adopted at the township level to address smart collar deworming group (SCDG) and manual deworming group (MDG). In SCDG the smart collars were used to deliver the praziquantel (PQZ) baits to dogs once a month automatically, and the dogs in MDG were dewormed by manual delivery of PQZ baits in the usual way. The allocation of interventions was concealed from veterinarians between these two groups. The examination and result evaluation of fecal samples were also kept undisclosed to both laboratory personnel and evaluation experts. The positive rates of Echinococcus antigen in dog feces, which was one of the primary endpoints, was detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and SPSS 27.0 software was used to process the data, and generalized estimation equation (GEE) were used to evaluate odds ratios versus manual deworming for smart collar deworming to analyze the deworming effect. The field trial was conducted over a 24-month period to gather data on the installation and recycling of smart collars, the frequency of dog deworming, as well as the collection and detection of dog fecal samples.Results Between June 1, 2021, and July 30, 2023, we recruited 1920 domestic dogs and obtained consent orally from their owners to advance our program, of them 800 were assigned to smart deworming schedule and 1120 to manual deworming schedule.
Comparison of periphyton growth on two artificial substrates in temperate zone fishponds
Authors: Šetlíková Irena , Bláha Martin , Navrátil Josef , Policar Tomáš , Berec Michal
Published: July 2024

Periphyton communities are fundamental components of freshwater ecosystems that influence water quality, nutrient cycling, and productivity. Additionally, periphyton communities serve as valuable food sources in aquaculture. The periphyton communities on two artificial substrates—heather mats and geotextiles—were compared in four temperate fishponds. After 51 days of immersion, the geotextiles exhibited significantly greater fluorescence, indicating a greater abundance of algae and cyanobacteria. Conversely, the abundance (and biomass) of periphyton invertebrates on heather mats was greater than that on geotextiles, and the difference became more pronounced over time. These differences resulted from significantly greater dipteran larval abundances (biomasses) on the heather mats than on the geotextiles. This study suggested that heather mats can significantly enhance food abundance and availability within the water column under Central European conditions.
Data-driven spatiotemporal analysis of cloud cavitation by means of Spectral Proper Orthogonal Decomposition
Authors: Hatzissawidis Grigorios , Sieber Moritz , Oberleithner Kilian , Pelz Peter F.
Published: July 2024

The global dynamics of cloud cavitation are not always obvious; cloud cavitation may exhibit chaotic, multimodal, and intermittent behaviour, where dominant flow structures are hidden to the naked eye. To address this, spectral proper orthogonal decomposition (SPOD) is applied, a method that can continuously transition between Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) and Discrete Fourier Transformation (DFT)/ Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD). This provides the opportunity to break down the complex dynamics of interacting and transient processes into interpretable modal bases. Experiments were conducted in a high-speed cavitation tunnel using a two-dimensional NACA 0015 hydrofoil at a fixed Reynolds number of 8 * 105, and an incidence of 12° for varying cavitation numbers. The cavitation was recorded using a synchronised dual-camera setup with simultaneously captured pressure signals. Shockwave-driven and re-entrant flow-driven cloud shedding are identified, as well as the transition regime in between, exhibiting more complex behaviour. SPOD modes allow for a frequency and amplitude variation, which successfully decomposes the data into the dominant modes, whereas classical modal decomposition methods such as POD and DMD do not provide interpretable decompositions. SPOD grants access to a transient analysis of the data via the SPOD time coefficients. We validate the SPOD results using space-time plots and Power Spectral Density (PSD) of the pressure signals, being in good agreement with the SPOD spatial modes and time coefficients. The complex time coefficients give access to instantaneous mode frequencies and allow calculating a standard deviation of the frequency modulation of the modes. The findings provide a deep insight into the spatial and temporal behaviour of cloud cavitation and support the understanding of its physics.
Beverage consumption among adults in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada prior to the implementation of a sugar-sweetened beverage tax
Authors: Zaltz Daniel A. , Prowse Rachel , Yi Yanqing , O’Dea Jessica , Harding Scott V.
Published: July 2024

Background
Lawmakers in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) recently passed Canada’s first sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) tax. SSB tax evaluations rely on detailed understandings of beverage consumption patterns prior to policy implementation, but there is no recent literature about such patterns among NL residents during the pre-tax period.
Methods
We recruited a convenience sample of NL adults ages 19 and older and measured participant characteristics via online surveys and beverage intake via previously-validated, semi-quantitative beverage frequency questionnaires. We described the prevalence and mean intake of taxable SSBs, non-taxable SSBs, unsweetened beverages, and diet (non-nutritive sweetened) beverages. We explored bivariate associations between consumption of these beverages and sociodemographic characteristics identified as potential correlates of SSB intake.
Results
The sample (n = 1233) was 65% female, 57% between ages 30–59 years, and nearly all (94%) white. More than half (56.4%) consumed taxable SSBs weekly, and 63.3% consumed non-taxable SSBs weekly. The most-consumed taxable SSB was regular pop (mean (SD) 2092 (3120) mL/week); the most-consumed non-taxable SSB was coffee with added milk or sugar (mean (SD) 3859 (2895) mL/week). The prevalence of consuming taxable SSBs decreased with increasing age (18-30y 73%, 30-44y 65%, 45-59y 50%, 60y + 43%, p < 0.001), and was higher among males (60% vs. 54%, p = 0.04) and those reporting food insecurity (64% vs. 51%, p < 0.001). The prevalence of unsweetened beverage consumption was higher among those with more education (high school 81%, some post-secondary 88%, post-secondary or more 96%, p < 0.001), those working vs. not (92% vs. 87%, p = 0.006), and those above the poverty threshold (93% vs. 84%, p < 0.001). Weight status was only associated with diet beverage consumption (overweight/obese 54%, not overweight/obese 35%, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Our findings align with prior studies of socioeconomic position and SSB consumption in Canada, which collectively demonstrate that, on average, those with lower knowledge and material resources consume more SSBs and fewer unsweetened beverages. This research provides necessary understanding of social patterning of beverage consumption in NL prior to tax implementation. Post-tax evaluations of this policy should investigate potential impacts of the tax on diet and health inequalities, as well as potential unintended consequences of beverage substitutions towards non-taxed SSBs.
Expression of the VapD protein by Helicobacter pylori during intracellular infection
Authors: Flores-Alanis Alejandro , Delgado Gabriela , Santiago-Olivares Carlos , Escobar-Sanchez Maria Luisa , Torres-Ramirez Nayeli , Luna-Pineda Victor Manuel , Cruz-Rangel Armando , Cortes-Sarabia Karen , Mendez Jose Luis , Espinosa-Camacho Fernando , Cravioto Alejandro , Morales-Espinosa Rosario
Published: July 2024

Helicobacter pylori genotype I is strongly associated with different gastric pathologies and with the development of gastric cancer. There are several virulence factors that act in synergy to damage the gastric epithelium. Recently, the participation of the vapD gene in the persistence of Helicobacter pylori inside the gastric cell has been described. The objective of present study was to determine the VapD protein expression and location of Helicobacter pylori, when the microorganism is inside the eukaryote cell. Our research group had to development the recombinant VapD protein, polyclonal antibodies against VapD, cocultures of Helicobacter pylori and AGS cells and an immunofluorescence assay. Our results show that the VapD protein is expressed when the bacteria are inside the eukaryote cell. Probably maintaining homeostasis in the bacteria to resist the stress exerted by the intracellular environment of the gastric cell.
Water Quality Assessment and its impact on shrimp in Rupnarayan River: A comparative study on the basis of February to May of 2022-2024
Authors: GHOSH RAJRUPA
Published: July 2024

Rupnarayan River is the heart of Purba Medinipur district of West Bengal as it is the habitat of huge number of aquatic species and also the main resource of drinking, agricultural work, irrigation, cultivation and many more. We have collected the river water sample from Kolaghat, Alinan, Siuri and Deemari villages near Tamluk in Purba Medinipur district. Then assessed the different water quality parameters such as temperature, turbidity, pH, DO, BOD, salinity, alkalinity, hardness etc. We have studied basically for the premonsoon phase (Feb- May) and also assessed the impact of these parameters on the production of shrimp species. We have identified M.rosenbergi, M.brevicornis, M.monoceros, Penaeus vennamei of shrimp species. We also compared the data from 2022 to 2024 (Feb-May) and observed the production as 40%, 60%, 30% in 2022, 2023 and 2024 respectively.
Optimized Fine-Tuning of Large Language Model for Better Topic Categorization with Limited Data
Authors: Vulpescu Elena , Beldean Mihai
Published: July 2024

The novel approach of fine-tuning the Llama model for topic categorization with limited data presents significant advancements, offering enhanced performance and reduced hallucinations compared to traditional models. Employing transfer learning and data augmentation techniques, the research demonstrates the model's ability to adapt to diverse thematic domains, achieving high accuracy in topic categorization. Comprehensive comparative analysis with baseline models demonsrates the superiority of the fine-tuned Llama model, highlighting the effectiveness of advanced training methodologies and hyperparameter optimization strategies. Additionally, the analysis of hallucinations illustrates the robustness of implemented mitigation techniques, thereby enhancing the reliability of generated text. Computational efficiency assessment confirms the practical feasibility of deploying the fine-tuned model, balancing resource utilization with performance gains. The study substantiates the potential of large language models to be fine-tuned effectively for specialized tasks, contributing valuable insights to the field of natural language processing.
A Cosine-X Generalized Inverted Weibull Distribution: Properties and Applications
Authors: OSI Abdulhameed Ado , Dahiru Dahiru Abdullahi , Shuaibu Ahmed , Abubakar Usman
Published: July 2024

A new extension of the three-parameter Generalized Inverted Weibull Distribution, called the Cosine-X Generalized Inverted Weibull (CGIWD) distribution, is proposed in this study. Several statistical properties of the distribution, such as moments, moment generating function, quantile function, Renyi entropy, and the distribution of order statistics, were investigated. Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) was used to estimate the model parameters, and a simulation study was conducted to assess the behavior of the estimates. Additionally, we demonstrate the applicability of the proposed distribution, three real datasets were used. The results indicate that CGIWD performed better than competing distributions in fitting two of the real datasets.
Kumaraswamy Sine Inverted Rayleigh distribution : Properties and Application to Bladder Cancer Data
Authors: OSI Abdulhameed Ado , Abubakar Usman , Ringim Muftahu Zubairu
Published: July 2024

In this work, we propose the Kumaraswamy Sine Inverted Rayleigh distribution (KWSIR) as an improved version of the classical inverse Rayleigh distribution. The KWSIR distribution combines the Kumaraswamy and Sine Inverted Rayleigh distributions to provide better fits for real datasets. It is characterized by a unimodal and right-skewed probability density function, as well as an increasing and J-shaped hazard rate function. We explore various characteristics of this distribution, such as the probability density function, cumulative distribution function, quantile function, moments, incomplete moments entropy measures, and order statistics. The model parameters are estimated using maximum likelihood. Additionally, we demonstrate specific applications and provide examples to illustrate the flexibility and fitting capabilities of the model for real-world datasets
2010 Mathematics Subject Classification. 26A25; 26A35.
Effect of Erosion on Surface Roughness and Hydromechanical Characteristics of Abrasive-Jet Machining
Authors: Baha Vadym , Pitel Jan , Pavlenko Ivan
Published: July 2024

The article contains the fundamental results of the experimental and numerical investigations for pneumo-abrasive unit nozzles with different geometries. The research was purposed by the pressing need to develop an inexpensive and effective working nozzle design of the air-abrasive unit which can be applied for surface processing before some technological processes are performed, as well as for surface coating, descaling after thermal treatment, processing of hollow holes of the crankshafts, smoothing of the inner surfaces of the narrow channels between the impeller blades after electric discharge machining for ultrahigh-pressure combination compressors. Several designs were considered, ranging from the simplest to those with a complicated inner channel geometry. The impact of the nozzle material and challenging inner surface application on its characteristics has also been studied. The research was done using the application of modern CFD complexes for numerical modeling of the air-abrasive mixture discharge from the working nozzle of the pneumo-abrasive unit. In addition, physical experimentation was provided. The methods applied in the research allow for profound, systematic research of spraying units operating on the air-abrasive mixture within a wide range of geometrical and mode parameters. The novelty of the gained results lies in the development of the mathematical model of the pneumo-abrasive nozzle operating process, the working out of a cheaper nozzle design, getting information about air-abrasive mixture distribution along the nozzle length, giving practical recommendations for calculation and designing a working nozzle for the jet-abrasive unit.