bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Political Biases of ChatGPT
Authors: Rozado David
Published: March 2023

Recent advancements in Large Language Models (LLMs) suggest imminent commercial applications of such AI systems where they will serve as gateways to interact with technology and the accumulated body of human knowledge. The possibility of political biases embedded in these models raises concerns about their potential misusage. In this work, we report the results of administering 15 different political orientation tests (14 in English, 1 in Spanish) to a state-of-the-art Large Language Model, the popular ChatGPT from OpenAI. The results are consistent across tests; 14 of the 15 instruments diagnose ChatGPT answers to their questions as manifesting a preference for left-leaning viewpoints. When asked explicitly about its political preferences, ChatGPT often claims to hold no political opinions and to just strive to provide factual and neutral information. It is desirable that public facing artificial intelligence systems provide accurate and factual information about empirically verifiable issues, but such systems should strive for political neutrality on largely normative questions for which there is no straightforward way to empirically validate a viewpoint. Thus, ethical AI systems should present users with balanced arguments on the issue at hand and avoid claiming neutrality while displaying clear signs of political bias in their content.
Towards Adaptive Governance of Urban Nature-Based Solutions in Europe and Latin America—A Qualitative Exploratory Study
Authors: Kauark-Fontes Beatriz , Ortiz-Guerrero César E. , Marchetti Livia , Hernández-Garcia Jaime , Salbitano Fabio
Published: March 2023

The concept and application of nature-based solutions (NBS) have been rapidly progressing in Europe and Latin America, reflecting a transition in the way that urban governance is perceived. There is a large call for the collaborative, polycentric, and interdisciplinary governance of NBS. However, research on options for operationalising these governance processes in different contexts is still insufficient. This study explores and analyses the operationalisation of NBS adaptive governance in Europe and Latin America. Seven cities that are part of the project EU-H2020 CONEXUS have been selected as case studies: Barcelona, Bogotá, Buenos Aires, Lisbon, Santiago de Chile, São Paulo, and Turin. This contribution aims to (i) understand how NBS governance processes are managed; (ii) identify the main positive and negative factors that influence NBS adaptive governance; and (iii) understand common factors and relationships that can hinder or drive forward adaptive governance for NBS in the investigated contexts. The results revealed common priorities indicating a shared pathway for Europe and Latin America; however, context-dependent specificities were also observed. These findings can be used to support cities in both European and American contexts in developing plans and actions for the more efficient enabling of NBS implementation and governance through adaptive governance.
Experimental Investigations on Dual-Fuel Engine Fueled with Tertiary Renewable Fuel Combinations of Biodiesel and Producer—Hydrogen Gas Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Halewadimath Sushrut S. , Banapurmath Nagaraj R. , Yaliwal V. S. , Gaitonde V. N. , Khan T. M. Yunus , Vadlamudi Chandramouli , Krishnappa Sanjay , Sajjan Ashok M.
Published: March 2023

The effects of producer gas (PG), hydrogen (H2), and neem oil methyl ester-blended fuel (NeOME B20) flow rate optimization on dual fuel (DF) engine performance were examined in the current work. PG and H2 were used as primary fuels, while NeOME B20 was used as a secondary pilot fuel in the DF engine. The DF engine’s performance and pollution levels were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) and the results were compared with experimental values. The full factorial design (FFD) has been used to minimize the number of experiments. The design of experiments (DOEs) with an experimental design matrix of 27 distinct combinations were taken into consideration. The primary goal of the effort is to optimize different fuel flow rates for better brake thermal efficiency (BTE) and lower tail pipe exhaust pollutants. The developed RSM model is validated with experimental results for the selected fuel flow rates using a desirability approach. Experiments were carried out at a constant speed of 1500 rpm, compression ratio (CR) of 17.5, injector opening pressure (IOP) 240 bar, six-hole nozzle with 0.2 mm diameter, and injection timing (IT) of 27° before top dead center (bTDC). The flow rates of NeOME B20, PG, and H2 varied from 0.4 to 0.8 kg/h, 7 to 9 kg/h, and 0.029 to 0.059 kg/h, respectively. Optimum flow rates for NeOME B20, PG, and H2 were found to be 0.8, 7, and 0.044, kg/h respectively for the maximized break thermal efficiency (BTE) and reduced exhaust emission levels. However, a marginal increase in NOx was noticed. In addition, the delay period and combustion duration were reduced, and the cylinder pressure (CP) and heat release rate (HRR) were increased for the optimal condition with a desirability of 0.998. Overall, DF operation with selected fuel combinations was found to be smooth and satisfactory.
Evaluation of Pipe Materials in Water System Networks Using the Theory of Advanced Multi-Criteria Analysis
Authors: Abdulah Shrrat Omar Omar
Published: March 2023

This study used a multi-criteria analysis to find the optimal material for water pipes in water systems. This paper used FRISCO for calculating the criteria weights and ranking the considered types of pipes. Five different types are considered using 22 criteria. The considered criteria included economic, environmental, and pipe properties. The results showed that the FRISCO method could be used for decision-making in water systems.
A Robust Model Predictive Control for a Photovoltaic Pumping System Subject to Actuator Saturation Nonlinearity
Authors: Hazil Omar , Allouani Fouad , Bououden Sofiane , Chadli Mohammed , Chemachema Mohamed , Boulkaibet Ilyes , Neji Bilel
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a new robust model predictive control (RMPC) for uncertain nonlinear systems subject to actuator saturation is designed to regulate the terminal voltage of a photovoltaic generator (PVG) that feeds a DC motor-pump via a buck DC–DC converter. The considered system is a combination of a PVG-converter and DC motor-pump, which possesses nonlinear behavior along with under a saturating control signal highly dependent on the operation point and climate conditions of solar radiation and temperature. As a result, the control task is complex due to the nonlinearity of the system and its dependence on climate conditions. Based on the dead-zone property, the presented paper introduces a new RMPC technique to provide an innovative and efficient solution to ensure the closed-loop system’s robust stability in the presence of actuator nonlinearity. In this paper, the nonlinear system is described in polytypic form, and an appropriate linear feedback control law is designed and used to minimize an infinite horizon cost function under the framework of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Furthermore, sufficient state-feedback control law conditions are synthesized to guarantee the robust stability of the closed-loop system in the presence of polytypic uncertainties. Simulation results are provided, in which the results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Utilizing Intelligent Portable Bicycle Lights to Assess Urban Bicycle Infrastructure Surfaces
Authors: Ahmed Tufail , Pirdavani Ali , Janssens Davy , Wets Geert
Published: March 2023

Vibration from bicycle infrastructure affects the cyclists’ comfort and the choice of this transportation mode. This study uses smart portable bicycle lights to measure the vibration and quantify the level of cycling comfort on cycling infrastructure. A total of 28 bicycle streets and paths were selected in the city of Hasselt, Belgium, as the case study area. Six volunteer cyclists were recruited for the vibration sensitivity test of the device before the actual data collection. The results showed no considerable difference in the vibration recorded separately on each tested bicycle surface. The average vibration values vary from 1 to 17.78, indicating that riding comfort varies significantly across different surfaces. Asphalt and concrete roads had the lowest vibration and were the most comfortable in the study area. In contrast, cobblestone-paved bike paths were the least comfortable because of higher vibration. A comfort level map was developed based on the relationship between cycle vibration and subjective perception of comfort level. Twenty cyclists participated in the perception of vibration test. The comfort level is inversely correlated with the vibration. This methodology is adaptable to any other setting. Additionally, practitioners can use it to check and track the quality of the surface of the bicycle infrastructure over time.
Safety Risk Assessment and Management of Panzhihua Open Pit (OP)-Underground (UG) Iron Mine Based on AHP-FCE, Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Li Jielin , Deng Cyril Chol Chol , Xu Jiye , Ma Zhongjian , Shuai Pei , Zhang Liangbing
Published: March 2023

In order to prevent accident cases and improve safety in the mining industry, a safety risk assessment and management process is needed to identify and respond to high-risk hazards in mines. This study aims to investigate the main safety risks factors influencing the typology of accidents in the Panzhihua OP-UG iron ore mine with the concept of minimizing them, reducing injuries and fatalities, and improving prevention policies. A methodology based on the analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (AHP-FCE) is applied to conduct a study on the assessment and evaluation of mine safety risks. Upon investigating the safety situation at the mine site, 85 risk factors were identified, of which 49 factors were considered to be non-threatening and therefore compatible with existing control measures. The remaining potential hazards, altogether 36 factors, were ultimately categorized into six major specific groups. A mine safety index system and safety risk evaluation model are established to support the evaluation process. The results show that the overall risk level of the Panzhihua OP-UG iron mine is at a medium level with a score of 86.5%. Appropriate risk management measures were recommended for each risk factor from the perspectives of theoretical analysis, safety system optimization of mine technology, disaster prevention and control of slope failure, etc. Finally, this research serves as a great industrial value and academic significance to provide technical support for the safety production of mining enterprises. Hence, the FCE method can serve as a technique to accurately evaluate the impact of iron mine risk.
Response and Multi-Scenario Prediction of Carbon Storage and Habitat Quality to Land Use in Liaoning Province, China
Authors: Ren Dong-Feng , Cao Ai-Hua , Wang Fei-Yue
Published: March 2023

Liaoning Province, as an old industrial urban agglomeration since the founding of China, is an important link between the Bohai Economic Zone and the Northeast Economic Zone, and it has made great contributions to the economic development of China. The transformation of China’s economy and heavy industrial development have posed great challenges to the long-lasting growth of Liaoning Province. In this study, the driving force of land expansion was detected using the patch-generating land use simulation (PLUS) model in Liaoning Province, and the land situation in 2030 was predicted under natural development, ecological protection, and economic development scenarios. We then further coupled the PLUS model with the integrated valuation of ecosystem services and trade-offs (InVEST) model to explore the spatial autocorrelation and synergistic relationship between carbon storage and habitat quality. The results indicated the following: (1) The total accuracy of the simulation in 2020 using the PLUS model reached 94.16%, and the Kappa coefficient reached 0.9089; therefore, the simulation result was highly reliable. (2) The overall spatial pattern of both carbon storage and habitat quality decreased from the northwest and southeast to the middle, and habitat quality had an impact on carbon storage to a certain extent, with a positive spatial correlation. (3) The ecological protection (EP) scenario was the only development prospect with increasing total carbon storage, which could increase carbon sequestration by approximately 7.83 × 106 Mg/C, and development prospects with optimal habitat quality. (4) Weak trade-off and weak synergy dominated in the 2030 natural development (ND) scenario; most regions showed weak synergy in the ecological protection scenario, spatial heterogeneity became more pronounced in the economic development (ED) scenario, and a strong trade-off and strong synergy emerged in individual regions. The results of the study have a positive feedback effect on establishing an ecological security barrier in Liaoning Province and furthering long-lasting low-carbon urban development.
Power Flow Optimization Strategy of Distribution Network with Source and Load Storage Considering Period Clustering
Authors: Zheng Fangfang , Meng Xiaofang , Wang Lidi , Zhang Nannan
Published: March 2023

The large-scale grid connection of new energy will affect the optimization of power flow. In order to solve this problem, this paper proposes a power flow optimization strategy model of a distribution network with non-fixed weighting factors of source, load and storage. The objective function is the lowest cost, the smallest voltage deviation and the smallest power loss, and many constraints, such as power flow constraint, climbing constraint and energy storage operation constraint, are also considered. Firstly, the equivalent load curve is obtained by superimposing the output of wind and solar turbines with the initial load, and the best k value is obtained by the elbow rule. The k-means algorithm is used to cluster the equivalent load curve in different periods, and then the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method is used to determine the weighting factor of the optimization model in each period. Then, the particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to solve the multi-objective power flow optimization model, and the optimal strategy and objective function values of each unit output in the operation period are obtained. Finally, IEEE33 is used as an example to verify the effectiveness of the proposed model through two cases: a fixed proportion method to determine the weighting factor, and this method to determine the weighting factor. The proposed method can improve the economy and reliability of distribution networks.
Solidification Experiment of Lithium-Slag and Fine-Tailings Based Geopolymers
Authors: Dai Bi-Bo , Zou Yi , He Yan , Lan Ming , Kang Qian
Published: March 2023

Based on the pressure of environmental protection, more and more scientific researchers are trying to reuse aluminum–silicon-rich industrial wastes. In this study, activated lithium-slag and lead–zinc tailings were used as raw materials to prepare geopolymers at ratios of 3:7, 1:1, and 7:3. These geopolymers were initially cured for 12 h at 25 °C, 50 °C, 75 °C, and 100 °C and were then cured at room temperature to the specified ages. The compressive strength of each group of geopolymers was tested at the ages of 3 days, 7 days, and 28 days. The optimal group of samples was selected, that is, those with a ratio of lithium-slag to lead–zinc tailings of 7:3 and an initial curing temperature of 75 °C. After that, the heavy metal leaching test and porosity analysis test were carried out on the optimal group of samples, and the curing effect was considered to meet the requirements of the Chinese specifications. In addition, in order to reveal the mechanism of the chemical reaction, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to study the microstructure and hydration products of the C3 group cured samples. This study provides a new concept for the reuse of industrial wastes such as lithium-slag and fine-tailings.
A Systematic Literature Review on Logistics Information Needs for Sharing in Malaysian Disaster Management
Authors: Nasir Najuwa Mohd , Zahari Haliza Mohd , Husain Rozita
Published: March 2023

This exploratory study uses systematic reviews of published journal papers from 2018 to 2022 to identify research trends and present a comprehensive overview of disaster management research within the context of humanitarian logistics. This review is guided by the PRISMA Statement (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) review method. A systematic review of Scopus and the Web of Science turned up 23 related studies. Further review of these articles revealed nine main themes and produced a total of 42 sub-themes. Findings reveal that little attention has been devoted to the study of the information needs of humanitarian logistics during disaster response. The majority of previous research focused on disaster management before, during, and after disasters without comprehensively exploring the information required by humanitarian logistics providers for effective logistics support for disaster victims. The trends show that the information based on logistics needs presented is not significant. This study contributes to understanding past, present, and future research agendas and provides insight into current research status in information based on logistics needs in disaster management. Recommendations are highlighted related to using qualitative data analysis software, such as NVivo or Atlas.ti, as an analysis tool and practicing complementary searching techniques, such as citation tracking, reference searching, snowballing, and contacting experts.
Chiral Binaphthol Fluorescent Materials Based on a Novel Click Reaction
Authors: Li Fuchong , Liu Wei , Tian Li , Cao Wei , Li Xu , Guo Junhong , Cui Jinfeng , Yang Baoping
Published: March 2023

Because of easy functionalization, low cost, and large-scale fabrication, pure organic fluorescent polymers are widely applied in light-emitting display, bio-fluorescence-enhanced imaging, explosive detection, and other fields. Among these applications, due to their unique optical rotation characteristics, chiral fluorescent polymer materials are part of fluorescent polymers which could be used in chiral molecular detection and separation, biological target detection, etc. In this work, we designed and synthesized the first chiral organic fluorescent polysulfate materials through sulfur fluoride exchange polymerization (new click chemistry) by asymmetric binaphthol molecular. The chiral fluorescent polysulfate were synthesized by R/S [1,1′-binaphthalene]-2,2′-diol(Binol.), propane-2,2-diylbis(4,1-phenylene) bis(sulfurofluoridate) (FO2S–BA–SO2F) and 4,4′-(propane-2,2-diyl)diphenol(BA.) through step-by-step polymerization reaction under alkali present. It was found that the local crystallization of pure bisphenol A polysulfate was broken by the asymmetric axial chiral BINOL molecule inserted in it and let the polymer into the amorphous state. Fluorescent chiral molecules are uniformly dispersed in the polymer; the 120 µm film prepared by the film scraper was transparent and had good luminescence characteristics under ultraviolet light. After fluorescence detection, the excitation wavelength is 450 nm, and the emission wavelength is 480 and 517 nm.
Serum Lactate Dehydrogenase Level One Week after Admission Is the Strongest Predictor of Prognosis of COVID-19: A Large Observational Study Using the COVID-19 Registry Japan
Authors: Nakakubo Sho , Unoki Yoko , Kitajima Koji , Terada Mari , Gatanaga Hiroyuki , Ohmagari Norio , Yokota Isao , Konno Satoshi
Published: March 2023

Clinical features of COVID-19 are diverse, and a useful tool for predicting clinical outcomes based on clinical characteristics of COVID-19 is needed. This study examined the laboratory values and trends that influence mortality in hospitalised COVID-19 patients. Data on hospitalised patients enrolled in a registry study in Japan (COVID-19 Registry Japan) were obtained. Patients with records on basic information, outcomes, and laboratory data on the day of admission (day 1) and day 8 were included. In-hospital mortality was set as the outcome, and associated factors were identified by multivariate analysis using the stepwise method. A total of 8860 hospitalised patients were included. The group with lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels >222 IU/L on day 8 had a higher mortality rate compared to the group with LDH levels ≤222 IU/L. Similar results were observed in subgroups formed by age, body mass index (BMI), underlying disease, and mutation type, except for those aged <50 years. When age, sex, BMI, underlying disease, and laboratory values on days 1 and 8 were tested for factors strongly associated with in-hospital mortality, LDH on day 8 was most strongly associated with mortality. LDH level on day 8 was the strongest predictor of in-hospital mortality in hospitalised COVID-19 patients, indicating its potential usefulness in post-treatment decision-making in severe COVID-19 cases.
Inactivation Performance of Pseudorabies Virus as African Swine Fever Virus Surrogate by Four Commercialized Disinfectants
Authors: Ni Zheng , Chen Liu , Yun Tao , Xie Ronghui , Ye Weicheng , Hua Jionggang , Zhu Yinchu , Zhang Cun
Published: March 2023

This study was based on similar physicochemical characteristics of pseudorabies virus (PRV) and African swine fever virus (ASFV). A cellular model for evaluation of disinfectants was established with PRV as an alternative marker strain. In the present study, we evaluated the disinfection performance of commonly used commercialized disinfectants on PRV to provide a reference for the selection of good ASFV disinfectants. In addition, the disinfection (anti-virus) performances for four disinfectants were investigated based on the minimum effective concentration, onset time, action time, and operating temperature. Our results demonstrated that glutaraldehyde decamethylammonium bromide solution, peracetic acid solution, sodium dichloroisocyanurate, and povidone-iodine solution effectively inactivated PRV at concentrations 0.1, 0.5, 0.5, and 2.5 g/L on different time points 30, 5, 10, and 10 min, respectively. Specifically, peracetic acid exhibits optimized overall performance. Glutaraldehyde decamethylammonium bromide is cost effective but requires a long action time and the disinfectant activity is severely affected by low temperatures. Furthermore, povidone-iodine rapidly inactivates the virus and is not affected by environmental temperature, but its application is limited by a poor dilution ratio such as for local disinfection of the skin. This study provides a reference for the selection of disinfectants for ASFV.
The Effect of Virus-Specific Vaccination on Laboratory Infection Markers of Children with Rotavirus-Associated Acute Gastroenteritis
Authors: Okuyan Omer , Elgormus Yusuf , Sayili Ugurcan , Dumur Seyma , Isık Ozlem Erkan , Uzun Hafize
Published: March 2023

Objective: Rotavirus (RV) is one of the most common and important causes of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in newborns and children worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the RV vaccine on the natural history of RV infections using the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and systemic immune inflammatory index (SII) as hematological indexes, clinical findings, and hospitalization. Method: Children aged 1 month to 5 years who were diagnosed with RV AGE between January 2015 and January 2022 were screened, and 630 patients were included in the study. The SII was calculated by the following formula: neutrophil × platelet/lymphocyte. Results: Fever and hospitalization were significantly higher and breastfeeding was significantly lower in the RV-unvaccinated group than in the RV-vaccinated group. The NLR, PLR, SII, and CRP were significantly higher in the RV-unvaccinated group (p < 0.05). The NLR, PLR, and SII were significantly higher both in the non-breastfed group than in the breastfed group and in the hospitalized group than in the not hospitalized group (p < 0.05). CRP was not significantly different in either the hospitalization group or the breastfeeding group (p > 0.05). SII and PLR were significantly lower in the RV-vaccinated group than in the RV-unvaccinated group in both the breastfed and non-breastfed subgroups. For NLR and CRP, while there was no significant difference according to RV vaccination status in the breastfed group, there was a significant difference in the non-breastfed group (p value: <0.001; <0.001). Conclusions: Despite the low level of vaccine coverage, the introduction of RV vaccination had a positive impact on the incidence of RV-positive AGE and related hospitalizations in children. These results showed that breastfed and vaccinated children were less prone to inflammation because their NLR, PLR, and SII ratios were lower. The vaccine does not prevent the disease 100%. However, it can prevent severe disease with exsiccation or death.
Rapid Induction of Protective Immunity against Pneumonic Plague by Yersinia pestis Polymeric F1 and LcrV Antigens
Authors: Aftalion Moshe , Tidhar Avital , Vagima Yaron , Gur David , Zauberman Ayelet , Holtzman Tzvi , Makovitzki Arik , Chitlaru Theodor , Mamroud Emanuelle , Levy Yinon
Published: March 2023

In a recent study, we demonstrated that vaccination with the polymeric F1 capsule antigen of the plague pathogen Yersinia pestis led to the rapid induction of a protective humoral immune response via the pivotal activation of innate-like B1b cells. Conversely, the monomeric version of F1 failed to promptly protect vaccinated animals in this model of the bubonic plague. In this study, we examined the ability of F1 to confer the rapid onset of protective immunity in the more challenging mouse model of the pneumonic plague. Vaccination with one dose of F1 adsorbed on aluminum hydroxide elicited effective protection against subsequent lethal intranasal exposure to a fully virulent Y. pestis strain within a week. Interestingly, the addition of the LcrV antigen shortened the time required for achieving such rapid protective immunity to 4–5 days after vaccination. As found previously, the polymeric structure of F1 was essential in affording the accelerated protective response observed by covaccination with LcrV. Finally, in a longevity study, a single vaccination with polymeric F1 induced a higher and more uniform humoral response than a similar vaccination with monomeric F1. However, in this setting, the dominant contribution of LcrV to long-lasting immunity against a lethal pulmonary challenge was reiterated.
Associations between the Self-Reported Likelihood of Receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine, Likelihood of Contracting COVID-19, Discrimination, and Anxiety/Depression by Sexual Orientation
Authors: Adzrago David , Ormiston Cameron K. , Sulley Saanie , Williams Faustine
Published: March 2023

There is limited evolving literature on COVID-19 vaccine uptake and its barriers among sexual minority populations (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer [LGBTQ]), despite their increased COVID-19 risk factors. We assessed the differences in intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccine by self-reported likelihood of contracting COVID-19, anxiety/depression, discrimination frequency, social distancing stress, and sociodemographic factors across sexual orientation. An online national cross-sectional survey was conducted in the United States between 13 May 2021, and 9 January 2022, among adults aged ≥18 (n = 5404). Sexual minority individuals had a lower intention of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine (65.62%) than heterosexual individuals (67.56%). Disaggregation by sexual orientation, however, showed that gay participants had a higher intention of COVID-19 vaccination (80.41%) and lesbian (62.63%), bisexual (64.08%), and non-heterosexual, non-LGB sexual minority (56.34%) respondents had lower intentions of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine than heterosexual respondents. Sexual orientation significantly moderated the association between the perceived likelihood of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine and the self-reported likelihood of contracting COVID-19, anxiety/depression symptoms, and discrimination. Our findings further underline the importance of improving vaccination efforts and access among sexual minority individuals and other vulnerable groups.
Effect of an Organic Fertilizer of Ganoderma lucidum Residue on the Physical and Chemical Properties and Microbial Communities of Saline Alkaline Soil
Authors: Deng Pan-Bo , Guo Li-Peng , Yang Hui-Ting , Leng Xiao-Yun , Wang Yue-Ming , Bi Jie , Shi Chun-Fang
Published: March 2023

Saline-alkali land is the main reserve soil resource. The amount of arable farmland soil can be increased through improvement and utilization of saline-alkali land. Bio-organic fertilizer is an effective saline-alkali soil conditioner, but there are few studies on the improvement of saline-alkali soil with traditional Chinese medicine residues (TCMRs). In this study, an organic fertilizer made from Ganoderma lucidum residue (GLR) was mixed with saline-alkali soil at different proportions; physicochemical properties, enzyme activity, and microbial community characteristics of the soil were investigated. The results showed that the soil pH, as well as bulk density and electrical conductivity were significantly reduced, while the soil moisture content and porosity were significantly increased after the GLR organic fertilizer incorporation. Soil invertase and soil amylase activities significantly increased, as well as the diversity and richness of the soil microbial community structure. The abundance of the dominant phyla, Bacteroidota, Actinobacteriota, Chloroflexi, Firmicutes, and Basidiomycota, increased, while the abundance of the dominant Proteobacteria and Ascomycota phyla decreased. The best improvement effect is obtained when the application ratio of GLR organic fertilizer is 25%. The findings showed that TCMRs have positive application prospects in saline-alkali soil improvement.
Robust Optimal Operation of Water Distribution Systems
Authors: Perelman Gal , Ostfeld Avi , Fishbain Barak
Published: March 2023

The operation of water distribution systems (WDS) is an energy-intensive process, which is subject to constraints such as consumer demands, water quality, and pressure domains. As such, tracing an operation policy in which constraints are met while energy costs are minimized, is a foremost objective for water utilities. Given the inherent uncertainties in WDS operation and the importance of supply continuity, it is essential to find an operational strategy that is robust against a wide range of circumstances. One promising approach for optimization under uncertainty is robust optimization (RO), which assures a robust (feasible) solution to realizations of the uncertain parameters, within predefined bounds. This study presents an RO-based method for optimizing pump scheduling under uncertainties of consumer demands and pumping costs. The method can capture various types of correlations between the uncertain parameters, thus better reflecting the uncertain nature of WDS operation. The developed methodology is demonstrated in two case studies with different levels of complexity. The impacts of uncertainty levels and correlation coefficients are analyzed to demonstrate their implications on operation policy. The results show the advantages of using RO with tradeoffs between costs and constraints satisfaction.
A New Cross-Flow Type Turbine for Ultra-Low Head in Streams and Channels
Authors: Picone Calogero , Sinagra Marco , Gurnari Luana , Tucciarelli Tullio , Filianoti Pasquale G. F.
Published: March 2023

In the last few decades, hydropower production has been moving toward a new paradigm of low and diffused power density production of energy with small and mini-hydro plants, which usually do not require significant water storage. In the case of nominal power lower than 20 kW and ultra-low head H (H < 5 m), Archimedes screw or Kaplan type turbines are usually chosen due to their efficiency, which is higher than 0.85. A new cross-flow type turbine called Ultra-low Power Recovery System (UL-PRS) is proposed and its geometry and design criteria are validated in a wide range of operating conditions through 2D numerical analysis computed using the ANSYS Fluent solver. The new proposed solution is much simpler than the previously mentioned competitors; its outlet flow has a horizontal direction and attains similar efficiency. The costs of the UL-PRS turbine are compared with the costs of one Kaplan and one cross-flow turbine (CFT) in the case study of the main water treatment plant of the city of Palermo in Italy. In this case, the UL-PRS efficiency is estimated using a URANS 3D numerical analysis computed with the CFX solver.
The effectiveness of the use of sorghum grain in feeding of farm animals and poultry
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Volgograd State Agrarian University”, Russia, Volgograd, Kornilova E. V. , Nikolaev S. I. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Volgograd State Agrarian University”, Russia, Volgograd, Karapetyan A. K. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Volgograd State Agrarian University”, Russia, Volgograd, Chekhranova S. V. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Volgograd State Agrarian University”, Russia, Volgograd, Danilenko I. Yu. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Volgograd State Agrarian University”, Russia, Volgograd, Samofalova O. V. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Volgograd State Agrarian University”, Russia, Volgograd, Vuevsky N. O. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Volgograd State Agrarian University”, Russia, Volgograd
Published: March 2023

Corn, wheat and barley remain important sources of nutrients and energy in the diets of farm animals and poultry. According to statistics in the feed factories are allocated up to 45 % to corn, about 35 % to wheat, 25,5 % to barley. In this regard, the task of more appropriate use of the abovementioned grains and the search for alternative feed sources has appeared. In the Volgograd region sorghum of the variety Kamyshinskoe 75 is successfully grown, which is not inferior to corn in nutritional value. The purpose of the work was to increase the productive traits of farm animals and poultry when using sorghum as part of diets. A series of experiments was carried out on sheep of Volgograd breed under the conditions of the IFof the farm Abdalvagapov M. A., young pigs of three-breed hybrids at the LLC “TOPAGRO” enterprise, broiler chickens of the cross Ross-308 in the SRC Effi ciency and Safety of feed and Feed additives of the Volgograd State Agrarian University. The animals and poultry of the control groups were received the main diet with corn, and in the diet of animals and poultry of the experimental groups a complete replacement of corn with sorghum was made. Sorghum compared with corn was characterized by a predominant content of crude protein by 1,74 abs.%, crude ash by 0,38 abs.% and nitrogen-free extractive substances by 0,12 abs.%. At the end of the studies on sheep (age 120 days) in the experimental group the live weight was 35,19 kg, which was higher than in the control by 2,83 % (P > 0,99). The live weight of young pigs at the end of the experiment was 129,95 kg or 2,66 % more than in the control group. Broiler chickens from the control group weighed 2198,36 g by the age of 35 days and by 0,9 % more then in the experimental group. Thus, the complete replacement of corn grain by sorghum in the diets of experimental animals and poultry had a positive eff ect on their growth rate.
Molecular characterization of virulence genes in broiler chicken originated Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Sarıçam İnce Seyyide , Akan Mehmet
Published: March 2023

Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium are the most common serovars observed in human salmonellosis while contaminated poultry products are the major source of Salmonella transmission to humans. Therefore, high pathogenicity of poultry originated S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium strains poses a serious risk to human health. In this study, we investigated the virulence genes of S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium strains isolated from litter and environmental samples of broiler chicken flocks. SipA, sipD, sopB, sopD, sopE, sopE2, sitC, sifA, ssaR, spvC, and pefA genes were investigated in a total of 137 strains consisting of 105 S. Enteritidis and 32 S. Typhimurium. Nine strains (6.6%) had all genes. No negative strain was detected for all genes. SopE was found in all strains (100.0%). SitC (89.1%), ssaR (83.9%), sipA (70.1%), sipD (73.0%), sopE2 (68.6%), spvC (68.6%), and pefA (73.0%) were also highly prevalent. Noticeable differences were observed between serovars in terms of sopE2, spvC and pefA prevalence: 77.1%, 80% and 82.9%, respectively, of S. Enteritidis strains were sopE2, spvC and pefA positive while 40.6%, 31.3% and 40.6% of S. Typhimurium strains were positive. This finding indicates that S. Enteritidis is more frequent than S. Typhimurium in poultry populations due to its higher virulence. Based on virulence gene distribution, the strains were divided into 44 different virulence genotypes, with the major genotype 4 (15.3%) carrying 8 of the 11 genes. The majority of strains (75.9%) were positive for at least 6 genes. S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium strains were highly virulent and pose a threat as zoonotic infection agents.
Perspectivas de los docentes sobre la educación inclusiva
Authors: León Quispe Korintia , Villafuerte Alvarez Carlos Alberto , Llanos Chuquipa Edgar Ney , Abarca Mora Vilma , Zapata Chiroque Julio Edgar
Published: March 2023

La educación inclusiva por muchos años ha tenido como objetivo garantizar la participación sin discriminación hacia sus estudiantes, por la cual se debe fortalecer a la comunidad educativa, así como a los docentes donde deben fortalecer sus habilidades para que enseñen e incluyan a todos los estudiantes sin distinción. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la relación sobre la percepción de los docentes en la educación inclusiva. El estudio tuvo un enfoque cuantitativo, de diseño no experimental, tipo transversal para determinar la relación entre las variables, donde la técnica empleada fue una encuesta, donde las aplicaciones de los cuestionarios se consideraron a 230 docentes. Los resultados evidencian que la variable percepción del docente y la variable cultura inclusiva tienen Rho de 0,277**., el cual permite inferir la existencia de una relación significativa. Se concluye que la percepción de los docentes en la educación inclusiva mantiene una relación, el cual necesita ser vinculada con la formación de competencias en los docentes.
Aprendizaje cooperativo, trascendiendo el aula convencional
Authors: Catalán Cisneros Milagros Rosanna , Figueroa Huamán Marlene Genoveva , Espinoza Ayala Rosa María
Published: March 2023

Los efectos adversos del distanciamiento social a causa de la pandemia están provocando en los estudiantes la pérdida de una parte primordial de su desarrollo, la socialización, la educación virtual que reciben los estudiantes, los convierte únicamente en consumidores de información, no siendo viable ni para la presencialidad. El aprendizaje cooperativo es una estrategia socializadora que favorece los aprendizajes de los estudiantes, desarrollando habilidades sociales indispensable para las exigencias que actualmente demanda la sociedad. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo realizar un análisis teórico de los aportes sobre el aprendizaje cooperativo vislumbrando la trascendencia de esta estrategia pedagógica en la educación virtual. La metodología empleada fue una revisión bibliográfica, siendo seleccionados 18 artículos de revistas indexadas en las bases de datos de Scielo, Ebsco, Eric, Scopus y Latindex, priorizándose publicaciones de los años 2020 al 2022; llegando a la conclusión, que el aprendizaje cooperativo es una estrategia que puede ser adaptada y trascender espacios convencionales de las aulas de clases.
Pengaruh Motivasi, Komunikasi dan Disiplin Kerja terhadap Kinerja Karyawan
Authors: Dwirizkalia Farraquena Chandra , Pujianto Surahman
Published: March 2023

This study aims to analyze and determine the influence of motivation, communication, and work discipline on the performance of PT. XYZ. The population used in this study were employees of PT. XYZ has 169 employees. The sampling technique used is a purposive sample where the sampling technique with certain considerations that is sampled is 108 employees of PT. XYZ. Data retrieval techniques through the dissemination of questionnaires using a Likert scale. The data is then analyzed using statistical data processing. Based on the results of hypothesis test data analysis in this study, it shows that motivation has a significant effect on employee performance, communication has a significant effect on employee performance, and work discipline has a significant effect on employee performance.
Pengaruh Ketidakamanan Kerja, Kepuasan Kerja, dan Komitmen Organisasional terhadap Turnover Intention
Authors: Sangian Finisia Stifie , Gulo Yupiter
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of job insecurity, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment on employee turnover intention. PT. Dharma Protindo Karya is the main object of this study with all of its 119 employees as the population as well as the research sample. So that the sampling as research respondents uses a saturation technique. By using multiple linear regression analysis techniques, testing three key hypotheses in this study. The research findings show that three independent variables, namely job insecurity, job satisfaction and organizational commitment have a significant and positive effect on employee turn-over intention. Thus, it is necessary for companies to consider three independent variables to maintain turnover intention within the company.
Pengaruh Motivasi Kerja, Kompetensi Sumber Daya Manusia dan Disiplin Kerja terhadap Kinerja Pegawai
Authors: Khairunnisa Mawar , Gulo Yupiter
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of work motivation, human resource competence, and work discipline on employee performance at PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 2 Tanjung Priok. Sampling using non-probability sampling technique  with a total sample used as many as 74 respondents. The study was analyzed using a statistical software program. Multiple linear regression is used in this study as the data analysis method. The results of this study showed that the work motivation had no effect on employee performance while human resource competence, and work discipline had an effect on employee performance.
Pengaruh Budaya Organisasi, Komitmen Organisasi, Kompensasi dan Etos Kerja terhadap Kinerja Karyawan
Authors: Septiandri Shafikha , Tjahjadi Karel
Published: March 2023

Achieving business goals has challenges and gaps that need to be addressed effectively. The business should have a plan to address these issues, including work arrangements. Based on the results of discussions with the management of PT RH. X, employee productivity scores decreased from 2017 to 2020. The purpose of this study was to empirically examine the influence of organizational culture, organizational commitment, compensation, and morale on employee performance. The object used is the company PT. X used a sample of 71 manufacturing workers who were employed using a purposive sampling technique. The Likert scale was used in the questionnaire given to each respondent. In this study, multiple linear regression was used as a data analysis method. Surveys show that organizational culture, organizational commitment, compensation and work ethic have a positive impact on employee performance.
Pengaruh Job Embeddedness, Kepuasan Kerja dan Komitmen Organisasi terhadap Turnover Intention Karyawan PT. ABC
Authors: Risaldy Audry , Ananda Denta
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study is to test and analyze the effect of job embeddedness, job satisfaction and organizational commitment on employee turnover intention at  PT ABC. The study was conducted on 91 employees of PT ABC using purposive sampling technique through questionnaire data collection using a 5-point Likert scale. The results in this study shows that job embeddedness and organizational commitment had no effect on employee turnover intention and job satisfaction had a significant negative effect on employee turnover intention
Analisis Faktor-Faktor yang memengaruhi Nilai Perusahaan Makanan dan Minuman
Authors: Adam William , Wibowo Satriyo
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this research is to analyze the factors that can affect firm value, including profitability, capital structure, liquidity, firm size, and total asset turnover. The objects in this research were taken from food and beverage companies listed on the IDX from 2012-2020. The number of samples in this research were 81 data with 9 companies selected using the purposive sampling method. The data analysis tool used is multiple regression analysis with a significance level of α=5%. The results of this research indicate that profitability has a positive effect on firm value. The higher the profitability, the more efficient and effective the company's performance is, thereby increasing investor interest in investing. Liquidity has a negative effect on firm value. High liquidity does not give a positive signal to investors, thereby reducing investor interest in investing. Meanwhile, capital structure, firm size, and total asset turnover have no effect on firm value.
Pengaruh Pengalaman, Motivasi, Pendidikan terhadap Kinerja Karyawan PNS RSJD
Authors: Angelica Florencia , Purbasari RR Niken
Published: March 2023

This study aims to identify and analyze the influence of work experience, work motivation, and educational background on employee performance at the Bangka Belitung Islands Provincial Hospital. The simple random sampling technique was used with a total sample of 136 respondents of civil servant employees. Data was collected by distributing questionnaires using a 5-point Likert scale to measure 24 statement items. They were using multiple regression analysis to determine the effect of all dependent variables on independent variables. The results showed that work motivation and educational background had an influence on employee performance, but work experience variables did not have an impact on the performance of employees of the Bangka Belitung Islands Provincial Hospital.