bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Evaluation Method for Cleaner Production Audit in Industrial Parks: Case of a Park in Central China
Authors: Li Zhu , Ding Jianhe , Tao Tianqi , Wang Shulian , Pi Kewu , Xiong Wen
Published: March 2024

With respect to peak carbon and carbon neutrality, China’s economic structure is developing towards low carbonization, circulation, and cleanliness. There is an urgent need to expand the scope of cleaner production audits, improve cleaner production efficiency, and promote cleaner production through regional coordination. The 14th Five-Year National Cleaner Production Implementation Plan proposed selecting 100 parks or industrial clusters to conduct an overall cleaner production audit innovation pilot. To promote the coordinated development of cleaner production areas, this study constructed a set of cleaner production index systems for industrial parks, established an evaluation model based on the binary semantic evaluation method, and selected an industrial park in central China as an audit pilot. The binary group θ1=(2, −0.1084) of the rating results was determined to be a cleaner production park. Based on the evaluation results, the clean production potential of the park was analyzed, and suggestions for clean production were put forward. Sixteen representative enterprises in the park were selected to build twenty-one ecological chains, providing reasonable suggestions for constructing a systematic and circular enterprise symbiosis network.
Preparation and Electrochemical Performance of Activated Composite Carbon Nanofibers Using Extraction Residue from Direct Coal Liquefaction Residue
Authors: Liu Jingyi , Wu Jing , Qiao Tongxin , Li Peng , Teng Daoguang
Published: March 2024

Organic carbon extracted from direct coal liquefaction residue (DLCR) is an ideal precursor for the preparation of carbon materials. However, investigations into the utilization of the extraction residue (ER) are rarely reported. In this work, ER from DCLR was pretreated with H2O2 to afford oxidized extraction residue (OER). Then, the OER was mixed with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) in N,N-dimethylformamide for the preparation of composite carbon nanofibers by electrospinning. With adding 80 wt.% OER, the composite carbon nanofibers still demonstrate a clear fiber profile and smooth surface under a scanning electron microscope, indicating that the OER has good solubility with PAN in N,N-dimethylformamide. The electrochemical performance characterization of the activated composite carbon nanofiber shows that the P-OER60-AC (activated composite carbon nanofibers prepared with 60 wt.% of OER and 40 wt.% of PAN) has a better electrochemical performance with a specific capacitance of 97 F/g at 0.5 A/g, as compared to the others. Additionally, the P-OER80-AC (activated composite carbon nanofibers prepared with 80 wt.% of OER and 20 wt.% of PAN) is also considerable for the perspective of coal-based solid waste treatment and utilization.
Solar Chimney Power Plants for Sustainable Air Quality Management Integrating Photocatalysis and Particulate Filtration: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Mandal Dipak Kumar , Bose Sharmistha , Biswas Nirmalendu , Manna Nirmal K. , Cuce Erdem , Benim Ali Cemal
Published: March 2024

Urban air pollution has become a pressing challenge in recent times, demanding innovative solutions. This review delves into the potential of Solar Chimney Power Plants (SCPPs) as a sustainable approach to mitigating air pollution. The idea of mitigation of pollution may be an added advantage to the use of SCPPs in practice. Recent advancements, such as the integration of photocatalytic reactors (PCRs) for the elimination of greenhouse gases (GHGs), emphasizing the importance of addressing non-CO2 GHGs like CH4 and N2O are analyzed. The novelty of this review is that it not only focuses on the shifting and removal of particulate matter but also on the removal of greenhouse gases. Numerous case studies, ranging from filter-equipped SCPPs to Solar-Assisted Large-Scale Cleaning Systems (SALSCSs), are reviewed, providing a comprehensive understanding of their design, performance, and potential benefits. This review serves as a guide for researchers and policymakers, emphasizing the need for multifaceted approaches to address the intricate nexus of air pollution, renewable energy generation, and climate change mitigation.
In the Spotlight: Bat Activity Shifts in Response to Intense Lighting of a Large Railway Construction Site
Authors: Gili Fabrizio , Fassone Carlotta , Rolando Antonio , Bertolino Sandro
Published: March 2024

Artificial light at night (ALAN) is a major form of anthropogenic pollution, disrupting nocturnal wildlife behaviour and ecosystem function. Large construction sites are typically located at the intersection of urban and natural areas, introducing intense lighting into previously dark natural habitats. This study examines the responses of bats to intense nighttime lighting at a major construction site associated with a linear transport infrastructure (LTI) project. We used passive acoustic monitoring to record bat activity and species richness at the construction site and in adjacent urban and natural areas with different lighting levels. Generalist species, such as Pipistrellus kuhlii and Nyctalus leisleri, were attracted to illuminated areas, likely due to increased prey availability. Conversely, sensitive species, such as those from the Myotis and Plecotus genera, along with Barbastella barbastellus, avoided illuminated areas, particularly the construction site. Species richness was significantly lower at the construction site compared to other environments, reflecting ALAN’s barrier effect on movements and habitat accessibility for more sensitive species. The findings highlight the ecological impacts of introducing ALAN to previously unlit natural environments, underscoring the urgent need for implementing ALAN mitigation strategies in urban planning and construction practices to protect biodiversity in urbanising areas.
Research on the Dynamic Model of Emergency Rescue Resource-Allocation Systems for Mine-Fire Accidents, Taking Liquid CO2 Transportation as an Example
Authors: Nie Rongshan , Wang Zhen
Published: March 2024

After a mine-fire accident occurs, a large number of emergency resources need to be allocated to rescue those involved in the mine-fire accident. The allocation of emergency resources for mine-fire accidents has the characteristic of being a complex system with strong uncertainty. To investigate the impact of various variables on the allocation of emergency resources in mine-fire situations, this paper analyzes the relevant factors that influence the process of allocating emergency resources during mine fires. It defines the variables of the mine-fire emergency resource-allocation system based on relevant assumptions. Causal loop and stock flow diagrams are drawn to illustrate the relationships between the variables and the system dynamics equation. Finally, a system dynamics model for mine-fire emergency resource allocation is established. The Vensim software was used to simulate the model of a mine-fire emergency rescue. The simulation produced curves for the evolution rate of the fire, the arrival rate, the demand for emergency resources, in-transit resources, arrival, and the usage of resources during the emergency. The results indicate a positive correlation between the quantity of emergency resources in-transit and the arrival rate of emergency resources: they are positively correlated with the amount of emergency-management investment. Additionally, the duration of the maximum quantity of emergency resources in-transit is positively correlated with the length of the emergency resource-allocation route. On the other hand, the evolution rate of the mine fire and the arrival rate of its emergency resources are negatively correlated with the level of emergency management. The evolution rate of the mine fire becomes larger and the damage caused by the mine-fire accident is greater when the decision-making ability of commanders is at a low level.
Changes in Management Trends in 100 Global Companies before and after COVID-19: A Topic Modeling Approach
Authors: Park Hyeonjeong , Kim Taewoo , Cho Keuntae
Published: March 2024

Amid the global economic crisis due to COVID-19, consumer interest in CSR reports of global corporations has surged. CEO messages within these reports are crucial during such crises. This study aims to understand CEOs’ perceptions of key CSR issues and corporate strategies during global crises. Utilizing topic modeling, CEO messages from Fortune Global’s top 100 companies are analyzed before and after COVID-19. Compared to previous periods, social and environmental issues like climate change are more prominent. Key strategies include sustainable management development, risk management, and competitive advantage. This study offers insights into the importance of CSR reporting as a communication tool for managing stakeholders during crises. With COVID-19’s global impact, understanding changes in global companies and comparing pre-crisis conditions contributes significantly to the literature.
China’s Digital Economy: A Dual Mission of Carbon-Emission Reduction and Efficiency Enhancement
Authors: Gao Xiaodan , Li Jinbao
Published: March 2024

With the introduction of China’s dual carbon goals and the rise of the digital economy as a new model of economic development, the role of the digital economy in achieving green growth is garnering increasing attention. This paper constructs a comprehensive digital economy index, utilizing panel data from 30 provinces in China between 2006 and 2017, and employs the System GMM method to examine the comprehensive impact of the digital economy on low-carbon development from the perspectives of “emission reduction” and “efficiency enhancement”. The primary findings indicate that the digital economy aids China in meeting its dual carbon goals by reducing carbon emissions (CEs) and increasing carbon emissions’ efficiency (CEE). However, this impact varies with different components of the digital economy, and the role of digital finance is limited. This conclusion underscores the necessity of subdividing digital economy indicators. Our conclusions have been substantiated through various robustness checks, including but not limited to the method of distinguishing pure emission reduction from efficiency enhancement. Additionally, our research reveals the dynamic nonlinear effects of the digital economy in promoting emission reduction and efficiency enhancement. Green regulations that exceed a threshold value enhance emission reduction and efficiency, while the impact of sustainable technological innovation may be constrained by changes in policy and market environments. Academically, this study offers a new perspective on the complex relationship between the digital economy and its effectiveness in reducing carbon and enhancing efficiency. From a policy standpoint, it provides insights for China and other countries in advancing energy conservation and emission-reduction initiatives.
Quantifying Plant Viruses: Evolution from Bioassay to Infectivity Dilution Curves along the Model of Tobamoviruses
Authors: Nourinejhad Zarghani Shaheen , Monavari Mehran , Nourinejhad Zarghani Amin , Nouri Sahar , Ehlers Jens , Hamacher Joachim , Bandte Martina , Büttner Carmen
Published: March 2024

This review describes the development of the bioassay as a means of quantifying plant viruses, with particular attention to tobamovirus. It delves into various models used to establish a correlation between virus particle concentration and the number of induced local lesions (the infectivity dilution curve), including the Poisson, Furumoto and Mickey, Kleczkowski, Growth curve, and modified Poisson models. The parameters of each model are described, and their application or performance in the context of the tobacco mosaic virus is explored. This overview highlights the enduring value of the infectivity dilution curve in tobamovirus quantification, providing valuable insights for researchers or practitioners of bioassays and theoreticians of modeling.
Natural Adeno-Associated Virus Serotypes and Engineered Adeno-Associated Virus Capsid Variants: Tropism Differences and Mechanistic Insights
Authors: Lopez-Gordo Estrella , Chamberlain Kyle , Riyad Jalish , Kohlbrenner Erik , Weber Thomas
Published: March 2024

Today, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based vectors are arguably the most promising in vivo gene delivery vehicles for durable therapeutic gene expression. Advances in molecular engineering, high-throughput screening platforms, and computational techniques have resulted in a toolbox of capsid variants with enhanced performance over parental serotypes. Despite their considerable promise and emerging clinical success, there are still obstacles hindering their broader use, including limited transduction capabilities, tissue/cell type-specific tropism and penetration into tissues through anatomical barriers, off-target tissue biodistribution, intracellular degradation, immune recognition, and a lack of translatability from preclinical models to clinical settings. Here, we first describe the transduction mechanisms of natural AAV serotypes and explore the current understanding of the systemic and cellular hurdles to efficient transduction. We then outline progress in developing designer AAV capsid variants, highlighting the seminal discoveries of variants which can transduce the central nervous system upon systemic administration, and, to a lesser extent, discuss the targeting of the peripheral nervous system, eye, ear, lung, liver, heart, and skeletal muscle, emphasizing their tissue and cell specificity and translational promise. In particular, we dive deeper into the molecular mechanisms behind their enhanced properties, with a focus on their engagement with host cell receptors previously inaccessible to natural AAV serotypes. Finally, we summarize the main findings of our review and discuss future directions.
Problems of safe use of mini tractors and agricultural tractors in low-volume logging
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Dolzhikov I. S. , Dmitriev A. S. ,   St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Grigirev I. V. ,   Arctic State Agrotechnological University, Mikhailova L. M. ,   Arctic State Agrotechnological University, Kurochkin P. A. ,   Research and Design Institute for Gas Processing (JSC «NIPIGAZ»)
Published: March 2024

Most of the logging enterprises of the Russian Federation are small-scale, and perform low-volume logging. Such enterprises often use mini tractors, or wheeled agricultural tractors. The article analyzes the regulatory and technical problems of the safe use of such equipment in selective logging, most typical for low-volume logging production.
Consequências da exposição precoce a dispositivos eletrônicos nos resultados do neurodesenvolvimento na primeira infância
Authors: Rabelo Rodrigues Aline , Santos Rocha Gabriela , Rezende Ribeiro Ana Beatriz , Meneses Martins Paula , Lacerda Vitor Carlos , Lopes Cândido Ribeiro Victória Laura , de Jesus Dias Brenda , Neder de Faro Freire Vinicius , Borges Ferreira Gomes Bruno , Manzolli Ballestero Matheus Fernando
Published: March 2024

Introdução. A ampla integração da internet e dos dispositivos digitais no Brasil estimulou extensas pesquisas sobre a correlação entre o crescimento tecnológico e resultados adversos no desenvolvimento neurológico devido ao aumento do tempo de tela na primeira infância. Vários estudos demonstraram consistentemente o impacto negativo do uso prolongado de telas no neurodesenvolvimento infantil. Método. Revisão sistemática, seguindo as diretrizes PRISMA, explora a relação entre o tempo de tela e os distúrbios do neurodesenvolvimento em crianças de até 6 anos de idade. A busca, abrangendo uma década na Bireme, Scielo e PubMed. Resultados. 110 artigos, sendo 16 selecionados para análise, incluindo estudos transversais, coorte, ensaio clínico randomizado e meta-análise. Uma percentagem significativa de crianças, especialmente entre os 2 e os 4 anos, passa muito tempo em frente a telas, com potenciais disparidades socioeconómicas a influenciar a utilização. O tempo excessivo de tela está associado a marcos de desenvolvimento, incluindo os domínios cognitivo, psicossocial, motor, emocional e de linguagem, principalmente ligados a atrasos de linguagem. Conclusão. A revisão ressalta as implicações críticas do tempo excessivo de tela no desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor e cognitivo. Salienta a necessidade de gerir cuidadosamente o tempo de ecrã, considerando a idade da exposição inicial e a duração total. As descobertas destacam o papel fundamental dos pais, cuidadores e educadores na manutenção de um equilíbrio saudável entre o tempo de tela e as atividades que promovem o desenvolvimento geral da criança, defendendo uma abordagem cautelosa ao uso de dispositivos eletrônicos durante esta fase crucial da infância.
Desenvolvimento Infantil em crianças na primeira infância do município de Altamira-PA
Authors: Santos Thays Queiroz , Jacomel Bruna Grazielle Carvalho , Alves Everton Coelho de Araújo , Sousa Yasmim Silva , Albarado Kaio Vinícius Paiva , Oliveira Isabelle Guerreiro de , Fonseca Tâmara de Souza Alverga , Sousa Mylena Socorro Corrêa de , Jacomel Rodrigo Januário , Oliveira Rainny Beatriz Sabóia de
Published: March 2024

Objetivo: Analisar o crescimento e desenvolvimento infantil em crianças, no ano de 2022, do município de Altamira-PA. Métodos: Estudo descritivo-exploratório, quantitativo, com 528 crianças, com base nas informações coletadas pelo projeto Primeira Infância Para Adultos Saudáveis, em Unidades Básicas de Saúde do município de Altamira-PA. Resultados: O escore de Desenvolvimento Infantil (DI), encontrado nesse estudo, foi 0,83, ademais 17,3% das  mães tiveram seus filhos na adolescência, 75% realizaram 6 ou + consultas de pré-natal, 55,3% partos cesáreos, 50,9% amamentadas na 1ª hora de vida, 44,6% das crianças de 0 a 6 meses estavam em aleitamento materno exclusivo, 64,9% consumiram alimentos ultraprocessados, 25,8% têm tempo de tela superior a 2 horas por dia, 69,2% acham que uso de disciplinas punitivas é necessário para educar, 35,8% são do estrato com pior situação socioeconômica, 20,1% das famílias são chefiadas pelas mães, 59,5% são de famílias beneficiárias de programas sociais, 61,8% que relataram que consomem apenas alguns alimentos, 68,7% tiveram contato pele a pele ao nascer, 66,8% dos cuidadores nunca receberam informação sobre desenvolvimento infantil, 67,6 % nunca foram questionados sobre o desenvolvimento da criança. Conclusão: O índice de Desenvolvimento infantil está abaixo da média nacional, apresentando riscos para a saúde das crianças.
Smelting of metallic manganese and manganese alloys in the gas-oxygen refining converter
Authors: O Velichko , L Kamkina , Du Yunshen , Ya Mianovska , K Velichko
Published: March 2024

The purpose of the work is the substantiation and development of technological solutions for smelting metallic manganese and its alloys based on the duplex technology "arc electric steel-smelting furnace-converter of gas-oxygen refining." Methods: thermodynamic analysis by stage reactions and phase transformations of starting substances involved in chemical reactions; laboratory and industrial research; chemical analysis. Scientific innovation: when converting low-phosphorous manganese slag and involving recycled silicomanganese, the possibility of obtaining metallic manganese is shown when pulverized lime is introduced during blowing. The possibility of smelting low-carbon ferromanganese and metallic manganese in the converter of gas-oxygen refining by the silicothermal method is substantiated. Practical value: In semi-industrial and industrial gas-oxygen refining converters, technologies for obtaining low- and medium-carbon ferromanganese and metallic manganese by the silicothermal method and blowing high-carbon ferromanganese with gaseous oxygen have been tested. The silicothermal method provided high productivity, ease of metallurgical redistribution, high manganese extraction, minimal manganese "hits" with evaporation and transition of manganese to slag.
Impact of the Pandemic on Event Tourism: The Resilience of Japanese Pop Culture Events
Authors: Severino Filipe Segurado , Silva Francisco
Published: March 2024

Using a theoretical framework that recognises the pervasive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global tourism and events, this study examines the unique complexities of Japanese pop culture events. These events, characterised by their ability to attract large audiences, especially enthusiastic youth, have traditionally flourished through interpersonal interactions. This discrepancy between the interactive nature of events and pandemic-induced measures has necessitated fundamental changes in event management strategies. However, pandemic responses and restrictions contrasted sharply with the nature of these events, posing significant challenges for event organisers. This study analyses qualitative data from seven semi-structured interviews with Japanese theme researchers, journalists, and representatives of the main events on the theme in four countries.  The pandemic crisis clearly affected Japanese pop culture events, which were among the most frequently suspended. The interviewees believe that it is easy to return to the normalcy of face-to-face events because the audience for these events is predominantly young and enthusiastic, but this requires adaptations and the care that each country demands. This research sheds light on both the difficulties and setbacks that Japanese pop culture events face, as well as their ability to endure and adjust in response to difficult circumstances. By shedding insight into the complex dynamics and demographic characteristics of these events, it also enables event organisers and policymakers to develop strategies to facilitate the safe and successful recovery of similar events in the future. In addition to connecting with other studies in the event sector, this research contributes to the body of knowledge needed to develop effective responses to unforeseen obstacles by shedding light on exceptional events and their potential resilience pathways.
Sustainability practices in the Hospitality Industry: Evidence from Chain Hotels in Kandy
Authors: Iddawala Janith , Welengoda Binuri Mehara , Rathnayaka Banudee Thisali
Published: March 2024

The tourism and hospitality industry has typically been at the forefront of integrating sustainability practices in its overall operations globally. Nonetheless, there has been a continued paucity in the tourism and hospitality academia, with limited research being conducted on adopting sustainable practices and their impacts on developing tourism destinations. Therefore, this research primarily focuses on exploring the current context of sustainability practice adoption and its implications from the perspective of a developing tourism destination through a case study research based in Kandy, Sri Lanka. This research initially builds on the works of Mihalič, Žabkar, & Cvelbar (2012), where their Hotel Sustainable Business Model is used as a benchmark in exploring the sustainability practices within Kandy, Sri Lanka. This study employed a qualitative research methodology, where semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven senior managerial employees representing 11 chain hotels in Kandy, Sri Lanka, selected through a purposive sampling. The interview findings were further validated using participant observation facilitated through individual field visits across all chosen establishments in the sample. The key results of the research suggested that hotels in Kandy, Sri Lanka, had already adopted a wide array of sustainability practices, especially across the environmental and socio-cultural bottom lines of their operation. The findings further suggested that despite all hotels emphasizing their economic progression, most practitioners had a limited understanding of how economic indicators related to their sustainability commitments. The overall findings also indicated that hotels belonging to larger hotel chains had a greater tendency to implement sustainable practices, while hotels belonging to smaller ones showcased significant inconsistencies in their overall sustainability practice adoption. Furthermore, this research provided theoretical and practical implications for future researchers and local hospitality practitioners by providing a comprehensive overview of the current context of sustainability practice adoption in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Experiential marketing and purchase intention of ecotourism experiences - Z-Generation case
Authors: Nogueira Sónia , Durão Marília , Pacheco Luís , Ramazanova Makhabbat , Carvalho João
Published: March 2024

Consumers are more willing to invest in experiences with relaxation and stress reduction. Tourism, a pivotal driver of the economy, and its associated activities hold significant potential for experiential marketing. It is particularly evident in the growing interest of tourists in natural settings and experiences related to nature, fostering an environment conducive to the expansion of ecotourism. Consequently, an exploratory study was conducted with the following research question: How does experiential marketing relate to consumer satisfaction, loyalty, word-of-mouth, and intention to purchase ecotourism experiences, explicitly focusing on Generation Z? - The results indicate positive correlations between experiential marketing and satisfaction constructs, consequently establishing a link between satisfaction, loyalty, word-of-mouth promotion, and purchase intention. Thus, the findings provide valuable insights into the behaviors of ecotourism consumers and how experiential marketing can facilitate the development of more effective marketing strategies to enhance tourist satisfaction.
The Implementation of the Circular Economy R-Principles and Strategies: The Portuguese Hotel Industry Perspective
Authors: Rodrigues Susana , Santos Natália , Costa Berta
Published: March 2024

Circular Economy (CE) is a concept that has been gaining increasing importance in business circles and advocated by European Union, and by several governments worldwide. It is acknowledged that it has the potential to optimise resource efficiency, minimise production and consumption of greenhouse gas emissions, while simultaneously granting competitive advantage business prospects. Although it has been gaining momentum among academia, politicians, and practitioners, it is apparent some struggling when it comes to the design of a framework explaining how companies can embrace circularity and on how to adapt their business model to this new economic system. Despite its importance and applicability by the travel and tourism sector in general and the hotel industry in particular, it is insufficiently studied and examined. This empirical study investigates this concept on the Portuguese hotel industry perspective concerning the adoption of CE practices and CE R-principles through a survey instrument disseminated across the Portuguese hotel industry, with 78 valid responses. This article also introduces a new set of R-principles to the already existing ones, and contributes to the scientific research on the travel and tourism industry, and mainly to the one linked with the Portuguese hotel industry, which has been vaguely examined up to now. The results obtained indicate that these R-principles have been gaining importance, being adopted, and put into practice by the Portuguese hotel industry with special emphasis on the 3R-Principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) along with Repair. Findings also indicate that some initiatives that are in line with a Circular Economy paradigm, namely recycling, reducing water and energy consumption, and cleaning management policies, towel and bed linen programmes, staff and education programmes, green products, certifications, among others, are also being considered.
Human Resources Management and the Impact of the Restaurant Opening Hours: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Azevedo Daniel , Silva Susana
Published: March 2024

The hospitality sector is struggling with a generalized shortage of manpower to cope with the post-pandemic economic recovery. Furthermore, the work-life balance has become a very important issue when it comes to choose a place to work. This has been creating huge constraints in the hospitality industry in running and/or developing new businesses due to lack of qualified human resources. Considering the importance of this sector in the Portuguese economy, it is of paramount importance to better understand the origin of such constraints and how businesses can adapt to a new labour market reality. An exploratory study was conducted to understand how restaurant opening hours, as a top-level management decision, affects the work-life balance in the industry thus contributing to enrich the attractiveness of the jobs offered. To develop the study two groups of restaurants were studied. The first group is comprised of limited opening-hours restaurants, and the second group (as a control group), a non-limited opening hours restaurant. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with proprietors and/or top-level managers to ascertain how the decision on opening hours was weighed in the work-life balance concerns and what are the most important managerial implications, business profitability impacts, and staff retention indicators. Preliminary results seem to indicate that restaurant opening hours are one important top-level management decisions and the work-life balance has played a crucial role in the definition of the business model of the studied restaurants. By choosing limited opening hours, managers are able to schedule staff much easier and respect, as much as possible their work-life balance which then contributes to a more stable and motivated workforce. The results also show that this is only possible because restaurants manage to be profitable within the limited opening hours period. Further studies should be conducted to better understand how these new business model approaches could be used in larger-scale restaurants with non-limited opening hours.
Social Sustainability: the challenges to the restaurant sector
Authors: Maia Beatriz , Silva Susana , Melo António
Published: March 2024

The guarantee of sustainable development has been a growing concern in various economic sectors, particularly from the economic and environmental perspective. In a post-pandemic scenario, the restaurant industry was one of the most affected worldwide and had to undergo abrupt changes to remain operational. Thus, this study primarily focuses on addressing the challenges faced by Human Resources Management (HRM) in attracting and retaining employees in the restaurant sector. This research aims to understand the challenges faced in retaining and attracting talent to restaurants and to explore the strategies that should be adopted to ensure the restaurant’s social. It used a qualitative methodology, with 10 (5 female and 5 male, with a mean age of 35 years old) semi-structured interviews with professionals who chose to leave this profession, to ensure a concerted view of the current state of the sector in the north of Portugal. Through thematic analysis of the interviews, the results identified the current difficulties in attracting and retaining employees in the sector, as well as some HRM strategies that can address these challenges. These findings emerged from the themes 'Special Features of the Restaurant Sector' and 'Attraction and Retention Strategies.' The first theme contextualizes and characterizes the sector's reality, arising from four categories: activity context, company type, the COVID-19 pandemic, and turnover factors. Meanwhile, the second theme presents the attraction and retention strategies that HRM in restaurant companies should implement, while also exploring some challenges faced in designing and implementing these strategies in practice. Specifically, recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, onboarding, integration and socialization, and career management. In conclusion, social sustainability still has little prominence in the restaurant sector. To become more attractive, the restaurant sector needs to invest in better non-monetary benefits, such as flexible working hours, health insurance, professional recognition, training investment, and career advancement opportunities. This study intends to help companies take measures to improve employee satisfaction and also increase talent retention and new employees’ attraction.
Tourism as a Catalyst for Supporting Sustainable SMME Development
Authors: Patnaik Sweta , Shamil Isaacs
Published: March 2024

Globally, entrepreneurship is evident in the tourism industry, primarily receiving policy support and donor-assisted funding in developing countries. The South African Minister of Tourism reported that foreign direct spend on tourism for the first quarter of 2023 was R 25.3 billion increasing by 143.9% from the same period the previous year. This highlights the amount of tourist footfall that happens in South Africa. This can be seen as a huge boost to entrepreneurs and support rising unemployment. While research in entrepreneurship education has been extensively explored, entrepreneurship within the fashion domain has been largely overlooked, with significantly less existing literature in South Africa. Nonetheless, understanding the role of entrepreneurship in tourism development remains limited in academic discussions. Tourism serves as a crucial source of revenue for any economy, contributing not only from tourism itself but also through various associated industries. This includes locally-made products that attract tourists seeking souvenirs as gifts after their travels. To remain competitive, overcome challenges, and avoid unattractive product offerings, the tourism sector must embrace innovation. This research, conducted using a qualitative approach with university students, engaged with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) producing souvenirs for tourists, encouraging them to employ innovative and cost-effective methods in their product creation. The study's findings revealed five distinct categories of innovation, namely: product innovation, process innovation, managerial innovation, management innovation, and institutional innovation. Among these, process innovation and product innovation were the most frequently implemented innovations to promote locally-made products in the market.
Unlocking the Potential of Hybrid Learning: Tourism Student Voices in South African Universities of Technology
Authors: Mokoena Pavla , Hattingh Christiaan
Published: March 2024

This article examines the impacts the pandemic learning environment had on student learning and wellness, and how rethinking higher education (HE) design could bolster the improved student well-being. In the wake of Covid-19, academia is searching for some “normalcy” which requires a critical review of the suitability of current structures, as policy design struggles with the possibilities of a hybrid approach to pedagogic delivery. The body of knowledge on blended/hybrid learning design requires the student voice, in cold face experiences of pandemic-induced academic evolution, to get closer to discovering a model that benefits both teaching and learning. The unearthing of possible unrealised disruptions to the learning environment, affecting social, personal and cognitive presence. A sequential explanatory study that included the collection of quantitative survey data, and qualitative focus group interviews was conducted. The census enquiry of tourism management students at three universities of technology in South Africa was concluded online, as per remote learning requirements at the height of the pandemic. Study results indicate that remote learning during the Covid-19 pandemic impacted negatively on student learning and mental health at universities of technology (UOTs) in South Africa. Student data indicated that even through strict pandemic regulations, the university campus life morphed, and did not die.  Students gravitated towards parts of the campus considered soothing, with proper internet access, arguing for a holistic, sustainable university architecture that bolsters learning and student support. HE institutions need to further consider the role and design of university architecture for hybrid/blended learning, with a user-focused perspective.
ANALYZING OPERATION EFFICIENCY OF A CITY TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM BY THE U -STATISTICS METHODS. II. OPTIMIZATION THE METHODS OF INTERACTIVE EVALUATION
Authors:   Pidstryhach Institute for Applied Problems of Mechanics and Mathematics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Lviv, Ukraine, od_polishchuk@ukr.net, Polishchuk O.D. , Yadzhak M.S. ,   Pidstryhach Institute for Applied Problems of Mechanics and Mathematics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Lviv, Ukraine, yadzhak_ms@ukr.net
Published: March 2024

The methodology for interactive evaluation of the functioning efficiency of the motor transport system for a large city based on the use of U -statistics methods is formalized. To optimize this technique, we propose efficient algorithmic constructions for parallel execution of local, aggregated, and forecasting evaluation of system components on modern computers, namely, multi-core computers, clusters, hybrid architectures, and high-performance computing environments. The results obtained allow for real-time evaluation of the efficiency for the city’s motor transport system. Keywords: motor transport system, U -statistics, evaluation, aggregation, forecasting, parallelisation of computations, speed up, avtonomous branches.
CORESET DISCOVERY FOR MACHINE LEARNING PROBLEMS
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, vtereshch@gmail.com, Tereshchenko V.M. , Zakala P.A. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, pzakala@gmail.com
Published: March 2024

The coreset discovery problem is reviewed as well as the following three main methods to solve it: geometric coreset estimation, coreset discovery using the genetic algorithm, and coreset discovery using neural networks. We analyze each of these methods and find the cases where they show the best results. The focus of the paper is on neural network-based approaches and their ability to solve the coreset discovery problem. We perform a comparative analysis of several neural network-based approaches, describe their pros and cons, and determine the next steps in solving the coreset discovery problem. Keywords: coreset, dataset distillation, dataset condensation, geometry coreset, genetic algorithm.
APPLYING FAST SIMULATION TO THE EVALUATION OF CUSTOMERS BLOCKING PROBABILITY IN THE MULTICHANNEL QUEUING SYSTEM WITH MULTICAST ACCESS
Authors:   Institute of Physics and Technology of the National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute,” Kyiv, Ukraine, sea_hawk@icloud.com, Kuznetsov I.M. , Shumska A.A. ,   Institute of Physics and Technology of the National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute,” Kyiv, Ukraine, shumska-aa@ukr.net
Published: March 2024

A model of the multichannel queuing system is considered. Each channel contains some service lines. There are several input flows. Each customer requires several lines to be serviced. If the channel does not have a sufficient number of service lines, it is possible to reorient this customer to another channel. The service time has a distribution function of a general form depending both on the flow and on the number of lines required by the customer. A fast simulation method aimed to evaluate the blocking probability of customers of a certain flow with a given number of service lines is proposed. The method is compared with the Monte Carlo method using numerical example and the gain in simulation time is illustrated in particular. Keywords: queuing system, channel, line, blocking probability, Monte Carlo method, fast simulation, multicast access, estimate, relative error.
REGULATING ECONOMY BY THE CREDIT MULTIPLIER
Authors:   State Educational-Scientific Establishment “The Academy of Financial Management,” Kyiv, Ukraine, bbdunaev@ukr.net, Dunaev B.B.
Published: March 2024

The author asserts that the credit multiplier of the country’s banking system regulates the growth of the economy and characterizes the level of its development and prove that the limiter and indicator of economic development is the share of value added by production in the aggregate product, which determines the existing technological mode. It is proved that the ratio of nominal GDP to the monetary base of the Central Bank is identical to the product of the credit multiplier and the speed of money circulation that is constant for each technological mode. We consider the industrialized economies, developed economies, and highly developed economies. The marginal zero inflation multiplier is determined, at which real GDP growth stops and a transition to a deflationary crisis occurs. It is established that the Central Bank’s increase in the interest rate to reduce inflation leads to a sharp decrease in the multiplier and lending to production, while credit regulation allows us to reduce inflation by targeting, without changing the interest rate and without reducing lending. A model for regulating the economy with a credit multiplier has been developed using an engineering calculator and Ukraine’s economic recovery in 2024–2025 has been simulated. Keywords: economy, credit regulation, market, balance, labor, capital, money, credit multiplier, interest rate, currency, financial papers, crisis, inflation.
THRESHOLD MODELS FOR LEVY PROCESSES AND APPROXIMATE MAXIMUM LIKELIHOOD ESTIMATION
Authors:   Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, htsai@stat.sinica.edu.tw, Tsai Henghsiu , Nikitin A.V. ,   National University "Ostroh Academy," Ostrog, Ukraine; Jan Kochanowski University, Kielce, Poland, anatolii.nikitin@oa.edu.ua; anatolii.nikitin@ujk.edu.pl
Published: March 2024

Using the Levy process (the solution to the Ito–Skorokhod stochastic differential equation) we propose the construction of the model of the threshold process and the approximate maximum likelihood method based on approximation of the logarithmic function of the likelihood of observations. The estimates for the parameters of the two-mode threshold jump process with discretely sampled data are found. We show that by checking the likelihood ratio, determining the presence of threshold effects is possible. Keywords: threshold jump process, approximate maximum likelihood method, stochastic differential equation.
Utilise 5G Mobile Handset as DAO and Node in Layer 1 Proof of Authority Blockchain
Authors: der Laak Frode van
Published: March 2024

As the demand for real-time, secure, and scalable transactions continues to rise, the intersection of 5G mobile connectivity and blockchain technology presents a promising solution. This paper proposes a novel approach to leverage the high-speed and low-latency capabilities of 5G mobile networks, integrating them as nodes in a Layer 1 Proof of Authority (PoA) blockchain architecture for microtransactions. Several advantages are achieved by utilising 5G mobile connections as nodes in the blockchain network. Firstly, the ultra-fast data transmission speeds and low network latency of 5G networks enhance the efficiency of blockchain transactions, enabling near-instantaneous settlement of microtransactions. Secondly, the distributed nature of the blockchain, combined with the security features provided by 5G networks, ensures a robust and tamper-proof transactional environment.
Systems Energodynamic Approach as an Instrument of Increasing Efficiency of Engineering Developments
Authors: Dorokhov I. N. , Etkin Doc. V.
Published: March 2024

It is shown that the systems energydynamic approach, which takes into account the local heterogeneity of a natural object, significantly expands the capabilities of thermodynamic analysis and radically changes the conclusions of all fundamental theories based on hypotheses, postulates and model ideas about the mechanism of natural phenomena.
Expert System for Diagnosing Respiratory Diseases in Cats
Authors: Fitria Adyati Mardha  , Ria Astriratma  , Muslim Muhammad Panji
Published: March 2024

Cats are the most common pet in Indonesia with a cat ownership rate of 47% (Rakuten Insight, 2021). Cat owners need to know and recognize the signs and symptoms of the diseases that often occur in cats, especially respiratory problems and diseases. Although vaccines in cats can significantly reduce the incidence of respiratory diseases, they do not eliminate infectious disease pathogens. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was necessary to adjust health consultations that could reduce the transmission of COVID-19, which is the contactless method. In animal health, there is an online consultation through the WhatsApp platform between veterinarians and cat owners. Cat owners manually type every symptom experienced by the cat. However, there are several shortcomings in the online consultation, including that the symptoms described by the cat owner are unclear, so the diagnosis data is lacking and the consultation fee is quite expensive. Based on the problems that have been mentioned, the purpose of this study is to create an expert system for diagnosing respiratory diseases in cats using the Certainty Factor method. The result of this study is the availability of an expert system that can be used to diagnose respiratory diseases in cats.
Enhancing Financial Technology Operations: A Comprehensive Evaluation Using COBIT 2019 Framework
Authors: Sherly Sherly , Fianty Melissa Indah
Published: March 2024

This research aims to enhance information technology (IT) governance in a financial technology company by focusing on peer-to-peer lending services. The main challenges faced by the company involve a lack of system design details, leading to post-implementation imperfections and negative impacts on business process performance, including unnecessary delays and adjustments. The lack of transparency in system evaluation is also a hindrance caused by incomplete recording of test results. Therefore, this research aims to address these challenges by utilizing the COBIT 2019 framework. The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing data obtained through interviews and literature studies supported by the COBIT Tool Kit. The analysis is conducted on three main objectives: security management, solution identification, and IT change management, to identify disparities between the current status and desired targets. The analysis results highlight the need for improvements in specific aspects, including the lack of system design details, more precise information in the change process, and deficiencies in recording test results. Recommendations for improvement involve the development of more detailed guidelines for system design, enhanced documentation of changes, and improvements in testing instructions and result reporting. Additionally, recommendations focus on enhancing capabilities through proactive evaluation, refining security plans, developing more adaptive solution acquisition strategies, and improving testing practices. Thus, this research underscores the importance of strategic improvements within the IT and Information Systems governance framework to shape a more effective and transparent operational environment in Financial Technology companies.