bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Emerging Fashion Market: A Study of Influencing Factors of Shanghai’s Second-Hand Luxury Consumers’ Purchasing Behavior with Grounded Theory
Authors: Wang Xinzi , Liang Hui’e , Wang Zihuan
Published: November 2024

As a representative of China’s fashion market, the second-hand luxury market in Shanghai is experiencing significant growth. To deepen the understanding of sustainable fashion consumption, this study adopts grounded theory methodology and utilizes semi-structured interviews with 40 interviewees who have purchased second-hand luxury goods. Through theoretical sampling and step-by-step coding using Nvivo12, a comprehensive model was developed, identifying five main categories of factors influencing consumer purchasing behavior in Shanghai: three external factors—store factors, product factors, and social environments—and two internal factors—benefit cognition and personal factors. Based on these factors, we propose the following managerial implications: managers should explore new digital channels to expand service chains, leveraging celebrity endorsements to promote sustainability initiatives. Additionally, broadening product sourcing channels and establishing a standardized recycling system, while enhancing the management and monitoring of high-risk products, are essential steps. Maintaining competitive pricing, high inventory turnover, and a diverse product range are also critical measures. Furthermore, the government should increase support for second-hand luxury sales in urban commerce, fostering a competitive and sustainable business ecosystem.
A Machine Learning Approach to Understanding Sociodemographic Factors in Electric Vehicle Ownership in the U.S.
Authors: Sadeghvaziri Eazaz , Javid Ramina , Omidi Hananeh , Arafat Mahmoud
Published: November 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining popularity due to their environmental benefits, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Considering the sociodemographic factors that influence the adoption of EVs is essential when developing equitable and efficient transportation policies. This article leverages the National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) 2022 data to analyze the sociodemographic factors influencing the adoption of EVs in the U.S. A binary logistic regression model and three machine learning models were employed to predict EV ownership in the U.S. The results of the regression model suggested that the Pacific division leads in EV adoption, most likely due to legislation and improved infrastructure, while regions such as East South Central suffer from lower EV adoption. The findings indicate that higher household income and home ownership significantly correlate with increased EV adoption. In contrast, renters and rural households exhibit lower adoption rates suggesting an increase in charging facilities in these regions can promote EV adoption. The Random Forest model outperforms others with an accuracy of 82.72%, suggesting its robustness in handling complex relationships between variables. Policy implications include the need for financial incentives for low-income households and increased charging infrastructure in rural and underserved urban areas to promote equitable EV adoption.
The Combinations of Fuzzy Membership Functions on Discretization in the Decision Tree-ID3 to Predict Degenerative Disease Status
Authors: Kresnawati Endang Sri , Suprihatin Bambang , Resti Yulia
Published: November 2024

Degenerative diseases are one of the leading causes of chronic disability on a global scale, significantly affecting the quality of life of sufferers. These diseases also burden the health care system and individuals financially. The implementation of preventive strategies can be postponed until an accurate prediction of the disease status can be achieved. Degenerative diseases that are the leading cause of death in many countries are coronary heart disease (CHD), while diabetes mellitus disease (DMD) increases the risk of CHD. Most of the predictor variables from the dataset to predict the status of both diseases are continuous. However, not all prediction methods, including the Decision Tree Iterative Dichotomiser3 (DTID3) method, can process continuous data. This work aims to predict the status of both degenerative diseases, CHD and DM, using the DTID3 method with continuous type predictor variables transformed using discretization with the concept of set membership. Seven prediction models using the DTID3 method are proposed to predict the status of each degenerative disease. One DTID3 model uses the concept of crisp set membership, and six DTID3 models use the concept of fuzzy set membership (FDTID3). Each prediction model of FDTID3 represents one combination of fuzzy membership functions in discretizing continuous predictor variables, and one combination consists of three membership functions. The performance of the proposed FDTID3 model depends on the fuzzy membership functions used. The hypothesis that the performance of the seven proposed models differs at least in one metric and that the performance of the FDTID3 models is higher than the DTID3 model discretized using the concept of crisp sets has been proven.
Improved Fractional Differences with Kernels of Delta Mittag–Leffler and Exponential Functions
Authors: Vivas-Cortez Miguel , Mohammed Pshtiwan Othman , Guirao Juan L. G. , Yousif Majeed A. , Ibrahim Ibrahim S. , Chorfi Nejmeddine
Published: November 2024

Special functions have been widely used in fractional calculus, particularly for addressing the symmetric behavior of the function. This paper provides improved delta Mittag–Leffler and exponential functions to establish new types of fractional difference operators in the setting of Riemann–Liouville and Liouville–Caputo. We give some properties of these discrete functions and use them as the kernel of the new fractional operators. In detail, we propose the construction of the new fractional sums and differences. We also find the Laplace transform of them. Finally, the relationship between the Riemann–Liouville and Liouville–Caputo operators are examined to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the new fractional operators.
Mitigating Financial Distress by Engaging in Digital Transformation: The Moderating Role of Life Cycles
Authors: Zhang Jianbo , Yu Yaoyi , Wei Zhuoqiong , Shen Jie , Zhang Zhiping , Sun Zichun
Published: November 2024

Financial distress is detrimental to both companies and the development of economic society. The emergence of digital transformation provides a potentially prominent pathway for companies to address financial distress. Drawing on the dynamic capability view, this study explored the effects of digital transformation on firms’ financial distress and how this relationship may be contingent on the life cycle. Our hypotheses were empirically examined using a large panel dataset of Chinese-listed manufacturing firms and applied a hierarchical linear model with multiple high-dimensional fixed effects. The results indicate that digital transformation significantly alleviates financial distress. Moreover, the life cycle has a moderating effect on this relationship. Specifically, the mitigating effect of digital transformation on financial distress is stronger during the growth stage but weaker during the declining stage. Finally, the findings provide important theoretical contributions to the literature on digital transformation and corporate finance and offer managers valuable practical implications to mitigate financial distress.
DEHP-Induced Glioblastoma in Zebrafish Is Associated with Circadian Dysregulation of PER3
Authors: Men Shuhui , Xu Jiayun , Yang Zhanhong , Yan Zhenguang
Published: November 2024

DEHP is a plasticizer that is widely found in our water environment and poses a significant risk to the environment and human health. Long-term exposure to DEHP can cause endocrine disruption and interfere with the organism’s normal functioning. In order to explore the potential effects of DEHP on the development of biological brain tissues, this study used bioinformatics analysis to confirm the diagnostic and prognostic value of PER3 in gliomas and further validated the neurotoxicity of DEHP using methods such as behavioral experiments and molecular biology in zebrafish. The experimental findings revealed that the expression level of PER3 in diseased tissues was significantly lower than that in the control group. In addition, the expression level of PER3 was significantly correlated with immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, and oncogenes. Moreover, the ROC curve analysis showed that PER3 could accurately differentiate between GBM tissues and adjacent normal tissues. To further validate the neurotoxicity of DEHP, we analyzed the effects of DEHP exposure on zebrafish development and PER3 expression by behavioral experiments and molecular biology. The results showed that exposure to DEHP substantially altered both the behavioral responses and the gene expression profiles within the brain tissues of zebrafish. PCR results indicate that the expression of circadian rhythm factor PER3 was significantly reduced in the brains of zebrafish in the exposed group, and circadian dysregulation had a certain promoting effect on the development of glioma. The aim of this work was to investigate the potential effects of DEHP contamination in a water environment on organism brain development. It was demonstrated that PER3 is an effective early diagnostic marker, which is of great significance in the diagnosis and clinical prognosis of glioma, and that DEHP exposure can lead to a significant reduction in PER3 expression in zebrafish brain tissue. This study further proved that DEHP has a potential carcinogenic effect, which adds scientific evidence to the carcinogenicity study of DEHP.
Benchmark Dose of Urinary Cadmium for Assessing Renal Tubular and Glomerular Function in a Cadmium-Polluted Area of Japan
Authors: Hayashi Takuya , Nogawa Kazuhiro , Watanabe Yuuka , Kido Teruhiko , Sakurai Masaru , Nakagawa Hideaki , Suwazono Yasushi
Published: November 2024

The aim of the present study was to apply an updated benchmark dose (BMD) approach to estimate reference urinary cadmium (U-Cd) for renal tubular and glomerular effects. This cross-sectional survey was conducted 30 years ago in 30 men and 44 women living in a Cd-polluted area and in 18 men and 18 women living in a non-polluted area. We applied an updated hybrid approach to estimate the BMDs and 95% lower confidence limits (BMDLs) of U-Cd for creatinine (Cr) clearance (CrCl), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), β2-microglobulin (β2-MG), and β2-MG tubular reabsorption (%TRβ2-MG). Using a benchmark response (BMR) of 5%, we estimated the BMDLs of U-Cd for adverse renal effect markers to be 2.9 (eGFR), 1.8 (β2-MG), 1.8 (%TRβ2-MG < 95%), and 3.6 μg/g Cr (%TRβ2-MG < 90%) in men, and 3.5 (CrCl), 2.5 (β2-MG), 2.6 (%TRβ2-MG < 95%), and 3.9 μg/g Cr (%TRβ2-MG < 90%) in women. The obtained BMDLs for tubular effects were 1.8–3.6 µg/g Cr and for glomerular effects were 2.9–3.5 µg/g Cr; these are not very high compared to the exposure levels in the general population. The BMDLs calculated in this study provide important information for measures regarding protecting general inhabitants or workers from the adverse health effects of Cd exposure.
COVID-19 Vaccinations, Infections, and Outcomes Among 784 People Living with HIV
Authors: Mahlab-Guri Keren , Komarova Irina , Kadar Laliv , Nemet Shay , Cohen Ramon , Radian-Sade Sara , Tova Achiel , Guri Alex , Rosenberg-Bezalel Shira , Elbirt Daniel
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Variants of COVID-19 are responsible for 700 million infections and 7 million deaths worldwide. Vaccinations have high efficiency in preventing infection and secondary benefits of reducing COVID-19 hospital admissions, attenuating disease severity and duration of illness. Conflicting reports were published regarding COVID-19 among PLWH. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate COVID-19 morbidity, hospitalization, and the magnitude of immunological response to sequential BNT 162b2 mRNA vaccines in PLWH regarding demographic and clinical factors. Results: Our retrospective study included 784 PLWH who had at least one anti- SARS-CoV-2 antibody test between March 2021 and October 2021. Half of our patients (392) had CD4 cell counts above 500 cells/µL, 40.2% (315) had 200 < CD4 < 500 cells/µL and only 9.8% (77) had CD4 < 200 cells/µL at their last laboratory workup. The mean age was 50.2 ± 12.2 years. About 90% of our patients were given at least two doses of the BNT 162b2 Pfizer vaccines; about 60% received three doses of the vaccine. About a quarter of our patients (27.6%) had COVID-19 infection. Only six patients required hospital admission. All six patients recovered from COVID-19 infection. Titers of COVID-19 antibodies were lower for patients with CD4 cell counts of less than 200 cells/µL in the first, second, and third serological tests with statistical significance. In a multinomial logistic regression, the influence of other factors such as age, sex, and previous COVID-19 infection on first COVID-19 antibody titers was not significant. Conclusions: PLWH are responsive to COVID-19 vaccines. As was expected, patients with higher CD4 cell counts had higher titers of COVID-19 antibodies and lower hospitalization rate. Age, sex, and previous COVID-19 infection did not significantly affect antibody titers according to our study. Larger prospective studies with control groups are needed to further characterize immunologic response to COVID-19 vaccination among PLWH.
Challenges of BTV-Group Specific Serology Testing: No One Test Fits All
Authors: Di Rubbo Antonio , Agnihotri Kalpana , Bowden Timothy R. , Giles Michelle , Newberry Kimberly , Peck Grantley R. , Shiell Brian J. , Zamanipereshkaft Marzieh , White John R.
Published: November 2024

A newly formatted enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of antibodies to bluetongue virus (BTV) was developed and validated for bovine and ovine sera and plasma. Validation of the new sandwich ELISA (sELISA) was achieved with 949 negative bovine and ovine sera from BTV endemic and non-endemic areas of Australia and 752 BTV positive (field and experimental) sera verified by VNT and/or PCR. The test diagnostic sensitivity (DSe) and diagnostic specificity (DSp) were 99.70% and 99.20%, respectively, for bovine sera, and 97.80% and 99.50%, respectively, for ovine sera. Comparable diagnostic performances were noted for the sELISA compared to four competition ELISAs. While the sensitivity of the sELISA remained unaffected by BTV-15 positive sera, the cELISAs were not as sensitive. BTV-15 is endemic to Australia, and early warning depends on sensitive diagnoses of all serotypes: endemic or incurring. The sELISA failed to discriminate against epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) antibodies, the most serologically related orbivirus to BTV. The ACDP cELISA and the IDEXX kit showed cross-reactivity with some EHDV serotypes, with the least cross-reactive being the VMRD and the IDVet kits. Cross-reactivities, however, were also detected in sera raised experimentally from 10 isolates of the 21 known non-BTV orbiviruses. In this case, the sELISA was the least affected, followed equally by the VMRD and IDVet kits, and the IDEXX kit and the ACDP cELISA were the least discriminatory. In addition to exclusivity assessment of the ELISAs, an inclusivity assessment was made for all ELISAs using well characterized reference sera positive for antibodies to all serotypes BTV-1 to BTV-24.
Neuropsychiatric Burden of SARS-CoV-2: A Review of Its Physiopathology, Underlying Mechanisms, and Management Strategies
Authors: Pacnejer Aliteia-Maria , Butuca Anca , Dobrea Carmen Maximiliana , Arseniu Anca Maria , Frum Adina , Gligor Felicia Gabriela , Arseniu Rares , Vonica Razvan Constantin , Vonica-Tincu Andreea Loredana , Oancea Cristian , Mogosan Cristina , Popa Ilie Ioana Rada , Morgovan Claudiu , Dehelean Cristina Adriana
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 outbreak, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, was linked to significant neurological and psychiatric manifestations. This review examines the physiopathological mechanisms underlying these neuropsychiatric outcomes and discusses current management strategies. Primarily a respiratory disease, COVID-19 frequently leads to neurological issues, including cephalalgia and migraines, loss of sensory perception, cerebrovascular accidents, and neurological impairment such as encephalopathy. Lasting neuropsychological effects have also been recorded in individuals following SARS-CoV-2 infection. These include anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction, suggesting a lasting impact on mental health. The neuroinvasive potential of the virus, inflammatory responses, and the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in neuroinflammation are critical factors in neuropsychiatric COVID-19 manifestations. In addition, the review highlights the importance of monitoring biomarkers to assess Central Nervous System (CNS) involvement. Management strategies for these neuropsychiatric conditions include supportive therapy, antiepileptic drugs, antithrombotic therapy, and psychotropic drugs, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach. Understanding the long-term neuropsychiatric implications of COVID-19 is essential for developing effective treatment protocols and improving patient outcomes.
A Mutation in the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) UL29 Gene is Associated with Anti-Herpesvirus Drugs’ Susceptibility
Authors: Yamada Souichi , Harada Shizuko , Fujii Hikaru , Kinoshita Hitomi , Nguyen Phu Hoang Anh , Shibamura Miho , Yoshikawa Tomoki , Kawahara Madoka , Ebihara Hideki , Saijo Masayuki , Fukushi Shuetsu
Published: November 2024

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) acyclovir (ACV) resistance is acquired by mutations in the viral thymidine kinase (TK) or DNA polymerase (DNApol) genes. We previously obtained an ACV-resistant clone (HSV-1_VZV_TK_clone α) by sequential passages of HSV-1_VZV-TK, a recombinant virus which lacked its endogenous TK activity and instead expressed the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) TK ectopically. HSV-1_VZV_TK_clone α had been generated using an HSV-1_BAC in the presence of increasing concentrations of ACV. The ACV-resistant clone bore normal TK and DNApol genes. Here, we deployed next-generation full-genome sequencing of HSV-1_VZV_TK_clone α and identified a single nucleotide substitution, resulting in a P597L missense mutation in the UL29 gene product, the ICP8 protein. Recombinant HSV-1 encoding a P597L ICP8 protein was generated, and its properties and ability to confer drug resistance were analyzed. No difference in virus growth and UL29 expression was observed between the mutant recombinant, the wild type, and a revertant mutant viral strain, and susceptibility tests of these strains to ACV and other drugs using Vero, HEL, and ARPE19 cells identified that the recombinant UL29 mutant virus was resistant only to ACV. These results indicate that ICP8 may be involved in the anti-herpesvirus drugs’ mechanism of action on HSV-1.
Challenges in Global Distribution and Equitable Access to Monkeypox Vaccines
Authors: Danladi Nengak P. , Agboola Progress , Olaniyi Peter , Eze Solomon , Oladapo Oluwatimilehin , Obiwulu Danielle , Akano Olatokun Shamsudeen , Adeola Olowoyeye Aishat , Olawale Khaliq , Adiatu Azeez Idowu , Peace Agboola
Published: November 2024

The monkeypox outbreak has grown beyond the regions in which it was considered endemic. It has spread from central and west Africa to non-endemic regions like Europe, America, and other parts of the world. It has recently been classified as a public health emergency of international concern. This study evaluated the challenges faced globally and equitable access to monkeypox vaccines. Global competition has been observed in the race to obtain vaccines, with low- and middle-income countries being disadvantaged. Great inequity exists in the distribution of vaccines globally through advance purchase agreements, vaccine stockpiling, vaccine nationalism, the inequitable distribution of existing resources, and insufficient surveillance and reporting mechanisms. To address some of these challenges, there is a need for strengthening the global vaccine manufacturing capacity, targeting countries with elevated risk profiles and limited resources, strengthening surveillance systems, and addressing vaccine hesitancy.
Attitude Towards Vaccination Among University Students at a Spanish University: Relationships with Sociodemographic and Academic Variables
Authors: Pérez-Rivas Francisco Javier , Esteban-Gonzalo Laura , García-García David
Published: November 2024

Objectives: This descriptive, cross-sectional study examines the attitude towards vaccination of students at the Complutense University of Madrid (Spain) and explores its relationship with sociodemographic and academic variables using a bivariate analysis and linear and logistic regression. Methods: The attitude towards vaccination of 3577 students of different disciplines was assessed using an online version of the Questionnaire on Attitudes and Behaviours towards Vaccination. In addition, all students were asked if they sought information produced by anti-vaccination groups and whether they identified as “anti-vaccine”. Results: In general, the students showed a favourable attitude towards vaccination. Older students, those in paid employment, and those undertaking non-health-related studies had less favourable attitudes. Spanish-born and female students showed more positive attitudes than foreign-born and non-binary/male students, respectively. Only a small proportion of students identified as anti-vaccine. Conclusions: Despite these positive results, the need for interventions targeting specific groups with less favourable attitudes, such as older students, employed students, and those in non-health-related fields, is clear.
Unveiling the Intra-Annual and Inter-Annual Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Sediment Inflow to Rivers and Driving Factors in Cloud-Prone Regions: A Case Study in Minjiang River Basin, China
Authors: Wang Xiaoqin , Yu Zhichao , Li Lin , Li Mengmeng , Lin Jinglan , Tang Lifang , Chen Jianhui , Lin Haihan , Chen Miao , Jin Shilai , Chen Yunzhi , Zhou Xiaocheng
Published: November 2024

Accurately delineating sediment export dynamics using high-quality vegetation factors remains challenging due to the spatio-temporal resolution imbalance of single remote sensing data and persistent cloud contamination. To address these challenges, this study proposed a new framework for estimating and analyzing monthly sediment inflow to rivers in the cloud-prone Minjiang River Basin. We leveraged multi-source remote sensing data and the Continuous Change Detection and Classification model to reconstruct monthly vegetation factors at 30 m resolution. Then, we integrated the Chinese Soil Loss Equation model and the Sediment Delivery Ratio module to estimate monthly sediment inflow to rivers. Lastly, the Optimal Parameters-based Geographical Detector model was harnessed to identify factors affecting sediment export. The results indicated that: (1) The simulated sediment transport modulus showed a strong Coefficient of Determination (R2 = 0.73) and a satisfactory Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency coefficient (0.53) compared to observed values. (2) The annual sediment inflow to rivers exhibited a spatial distribution characterized by lower levels in the west and higher in the east. The monthly average sediment value from 2016 to 2021 was notably high from March to July, while relatively low from October to January. (3) Erosive rainfall was a decisive factor contributing to increased sediment entering the rivers. Vegetation factors, manifested via the quantity (Fractional Vegetation Cover) and quality (Leaf Area Index and Net Primary Productivity) of vegetation, exert a pivotal influence on diminishing sediment export.
Effect of Rainfall and Water Level Rise and Fall on Stability of Core Wall Embankment
Authors: Zhao Wei , Mao Haoyu , Sun Lingfeng , Lu Xujiang , Sun Shulin
Published: November 2024

Transient seepage triggered by rainfall and water level changes has a significant impact on embankment stability. To investigate the effects of rainfall and water level changes on the seepage field of embankments, numerical comparative experiments were conducted based on the Shu River embankment project. The influence of key factors such as rainfall, water level rise and fall rate, and rainfall-coupled water level rise and fall on the internal seepage field of the embankment was analyzed, and the main factors affecting the stability of the embankment slope were identified. The relationship among permeability coefficient, lag rate of the phreatic line, and embankment slope stability factor is explored, and fitting equations are developed. The results show that rainfall infiltration increases the pore water pressure of the soil, leading to a decrease in the effective stress of the soil and a decrease in the slope stability factor. The stability factor of the embankment slope is positively correlated with the rise and fall of the water level, and the faster the rate of rise and fall, the higher the rate of change in pore water pressure. The stability factor of the embankment slope showed a trend of decreasing and then increasing with the decrease in water level, and when the water level had decreased by 70%, the lag rate of the phreatic line was the largest, and the stability factor of the embankment slope was the lowest. The established equations for fitting the stability factor of the embankment slope to the lag rate of the phreatic line can be used as a reference for the safety assessment of similar embankment projects.
Influence of Filler Types on the Treatment of Rural Domestic Wastewater in a Biological Trickling Filter: Simultaneous Nitrogen and Phosphorus Removal Performance, Microbial Community, and Metabolic Functions
Authors: Geng Yuxin , Pan Zhengwei , Hou Liangang , Li Jiarui , Wang Mingchao , Shi Tianhao , Li Dongyue , Li Jun
Published: November 2024

Biological trickling filtration (BTF) has the advantages of simple operation, low energy consumption, and low sludge production, and its application in the treatment of domestic wastewater in rural areas has been widely discussed. In this study, ceramic granule (R1), zeolite (R2), and sponge (R3), three typical nitrogen and phosphorus removal fillers, were selected to investigate the differences in the removal performance of COD, nitrogen, and phosphorus in BTF, analyze the characteristics of the fillers and biofilm, and determine the performance of simultaneous nitrogen and phosphorus removal. The results show that among the three fillers, zeolite has the larger specific surface area and roughness and has the best treatment effect on the adhesion performance of sewage and biofilm. The richness and diversity of the microbial community are higher, and the system is more stable, with a COD removal rate of 77.10 ± 8.67% and an NH4+-N removal rate of 75.20 ± 6.64%. The TP removal rate was 22.04 ± 10.27%. The surface of ceramic particles showed a regular cluster structure with a loose distribution. The removal rate of COD was 78.49 ± 6.92%, the concentration of NH4+-N in the effluent was 27.95 ± 8.23 mg/L, and the removal rate of TP was 38.83 ± 12.14%. As a polymer composite material, the sponge has large internal pores and a smooth surface, which is not conducive to biofilm adhesion. Therefore, the removal rate of nitrogen and phosphorus in sewage is poor; the removal rate of COD is 75.94 ± 6.98%, NH4+-N is 27.89 ± 21.06%, and the removal rate of TP is 14.07 ± 11.76%. Compared with the metabolic function of genes, zeolites have a more stable enzyme digestion ability than the other two fillers, and the genes related to the nitrification process (amo, hao, nxr, etc.) and functional genes encoding key enzymes related to the TCA cycle are relatively abundant.
Acidogenic Fermentation of Cassava Wastewater: Effect of the Substrate-to-Microorganism Ratio and Temperature on Volatile Fatty Acids Production
Authors: Sanchez-Ledesma Lina Marcela , Rodríguez-Victoria Jenny Alexandra , Ramírez-Malule Howard
Published: November 2024

The production of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) through the acidogenic fermentation of wastewater is an emerging technology that requires further research to optimize operational variables for specific substrates. Cassava wastewater, which is a byproduct of the cassava sour starch extraction process, has been minimally studied regarding its potential for VFA production through acidogenic fermentation. Batch reactors were used to evaluate the effects of the substrate-to-microorganism (S/M) ratio and temperature on VFA production from cassava wastewater. The results showed no statistically significant differences between the evaluated S/M ratios. The maximum total VFA concentration observed was 2214.64 mg of acetic acid (HAc)/L (0.32 gCODVFA/gCOD), which was achieved at a S/M ratio of 4 gCOD/gVS. This concentration was predominantly composed of acetic acid (42.7%), followed by butyric acid (30.1%) and propionic acid (24.6%), with a minor quantity of isovaleric acid (2.6%). The statistical analysis for the temperature variable showed significant differences between the evaluated conditions. The maximum concentration of total VFAs was 2650.19 mgHAc/L (0.45 gCODVFA/gCOD) at 34 ± 1 °C, with acetic (40.9%), butyric (29.8%), and propionic (29.3%) acids as primary metabolites. Cassava wastewater shows promise as a potential substrate for VFA production, warranting evaluation in continuous reactors.
Reconstruction of Surface Water Temperature in Lakes as a Source for Long-Term Analysis of Its Changes
Authors: Sojka Mariusz , Ptak Mariusz
Published: November 2024

One of the key parameters of lakes is water temperature, which influences many physical and biochemical processes. In Poland, in situ temperature measurements are or have been conducted in only about 30 lakes, whereas there are over 3000 lakes with an area larger than 10 hectares. In many cases, the length of existing observation series is not always sufficient for long-term analysis. Using artificial neural networks of the multilayer perceptron network (MLP) type, the reconstruction of average monthly water temperatures was carried out for nine lakes located in northern Poland. During the validation stage of the reconstruction results, BIAS values were obtained in the range of −0.33 to 0.44 °C, the mean absolute error was 0.46 °C, and the root mean square error was 0.61 °C. The high quality of the reconstructed data allowed for an assessment of water temperature changes in the analyzed lakes from 1993 to 2022 using the Mann–Kendall and Sen tests. It was found that, on an annual basis, the water temperature increased by an average of 0.50 °C per decade, ranging from 0.36 °C per decade to 0.64 °C per decade for individual lakes. For specific months, the largest increase was observed in November, about 0.99 °C per decade, and the smallest in May, 0.07 °C per decade. The obtained results confirm previous studies in this field while adding new data from lakes, which are particularly significant for the western part of Poland—a region with a previously limited number of monitored lakes. According to the findings, the analyzed lakes have undergone significant warming over the past three decades, which is important information for water management authorities.
Prediction of Reference Crop Evapotranspiration in China’s Climatic Regions Using Optimized Machine Learning Models
Authors: Hu Jian , Ma Rong , Jiang Shouzheng , Liu Yuelei , Mao Huayan
Published: November 2024

The accurate estimation of reference crop evapotranspiration (ET0) is essential for crop water consumption modeling and agricultural water resource management. In the present study, three bionic algorithms (aquila optimizer (AO), tuna swarm optimization (TSO), and sparrow search algorithm (SSA)) were combined with an extreme learning machine (ELM) model to form three mixed models (AO-ELM, TSO-ELM, and SSA-ELM). The accuracy of the ET0 estimates for five climate regions in China from 1970 to 2019 was evaluated using the FAO-56 Penman–Monteith (P-M) equation. The results showed that the predicted values of the three mixed models and the ELM model fitted the P-M calculated values well. R2 and RMSE were 0.7654–0.9864 and 0.1271–0.7842 mm·d−1, respectively, for which the prediction accuracy of the AO-ELM model was the highest. The performance of the AO-ELM combination5 (maximum temperature (Tmax), minimum temperature (Tmin), total solar radiation (Rs), sunshine duration (n)) was most significantly improved on the basis of the ELM model. The prediction accuracy for the stations in the plateau mountain climate (PMC) region was the best, while the prediction accuracy for the stations in the tropical monsoon climate region (TPMC) was the worst. In addition to the wind speed (U2) in the temperate continental climate region (TCC)—which was the largest variable affecting ET0—n, Ra, and total solar radiation (Rs) in the other climate regions were more important than relative humidity (RH) and wind speed (U2) in predicting ET0. Therefore, AO-ELM4 was selected for the TCC region (with Tmax, Tmin, Rs, and U2 as inputs) and AO-ELM5 (with Tmax, Tmin, Rs, and n as inputs) was selected for the TMC, PMC, SMC, and TPMC regions when determining the best model for each climate region with limited meteorological data.
The Effects of Bi-Combination of GGBS and PFA on the Mechanical Properties of Concrete
Authors: Al-Waked Qusai , Almasri Amin , Bai Jiping , Aljaberi Mohammad , Al-Waked Fandi , Al-Waked Ahmad
Published: November 2024

The main thrust of the current study is to examine the effects of ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), pulverized fuel ash (PFA), and bi-combination of GGBS and PFA on the mechanical properties of concrete. Seven concrete mixes were carried out in this study; including the control mix and the other six mixes had supplementary cementitious materials (GGBS, and PFA) as partial replacement of Portland cement at different replacement levels. The physical properties, oxides, and chemical composition of OPC, GGBS and PFA were experimentally investigated. The workability of the fresh concrete mixes was carried out by means of slump test and compaction index test. This study also examined the compressive strength of the different concrete mixes at different curing ages along with the splitting tensile strength. Cost analysis and the environmental impact of the different concrete mixes was also evaluated. The study results showed that the workability was significantly improved through the replacement of cement with PFA and GGBS. The utilisation of fly ash at 30% replacement level achieved the highest workability. The highest compressive strength was achieved by concrete mixes replacing 30% GGBS with cement, and a bi-combination of 10% PFA and 20% GGBS. The results also showed that the bi-combination of fly ash and GGBS at 10% and 20% replacement level was found to be favorable in terms of both cost and environmental impact.
Multi-Criteria Analysis of Electric Vehicle Motor Technologies: A Review
Authors: Kinoti Emmanuel , Mosetlhe Thapelo C. , Yusuff Adedayo A.
Published: November 2024

The electric vehicle market is constantly evolving, with the research and development efforts to improve motor technologies and address the current challenges to meet the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions well underway. Electric vehicles are crucial to the global initiative to reduce carbon emissions. The core component of an electric vehicle is its motor drive technology, which has undergone significant advancements and diversification in recent years. Although alternating-current motors, particularly induction and synchronous motors, are widely used for their efficiency and low maintenance, direct-current motors provide high torque and cost-effectiveness advantages. This study examines various electric motor technologies used in electric vehicles and compares them using several parameters, such as reliability, cost, and efficiency. This study presents a multi-criteria comparison of the various electric motors used in the electric traction system to provide a picture that enables selecting the appropriate electrical motor for the intended application. Although the permanent magnet synchronous motor appears to be the popular choice among electric car makers, the proposed comparative study demonstrates that the induction motor matches the essential requirements of electric vehicles.
Floater Assembly and Turbine Integration Strategy for Floating Offshore Wind Energy: Considerations and Recommendations
Authors: Ivanov Glib , Ma Kai-Tung
Published: November 2024

The increasing demand for cost-effective floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) necessitates streamlined mass production and efficient assembly strategies. This research investigates the assembly and integration of 15 MW FOWT floaters, utilising a semi-submersible floater equipped with a 15 MW wind turbine. The infrastructure and existing port facilities of Taiwan are used as an example. The effectiveness of various assembly and integration strategies has been evaluated. The study outlines equipment and infrastructure requirements for on-quay floater and turbine assembly, comparing on-quay assembly to construction at remote locations and subsequent towing. Detailed analyses of port operations, crane specifications, and assembly procedures are presented, emphasising the critical role of crane selection and configuration. The findings indicate that on-quay assembly at one major port is feasible and cost-effective, provided that port infrastructure and operational logistics are optimised. This research offers insights and recommendations for implementing large-scale FOWT projects, contributing to advancing offshore wind energy deployment.
MANAGEMENT OF PEDAGOGICAL COMMUNICATION: THEORETICAL AND APPLIED ASPECTS
Authors: Stepanenko N.
Published: November 2024

The article examines pedagogical communication as a complex and multifaceted process that includes interaction between the teacher and students, as well as other participants in the educational process. An attempt was made to analyze two approaches to the definition of pedagogical communication: broad – as a general social process of transferring knowledge and cultural norms, and narrow – as interaction between a teacher and a student. The article also offers the author’s definition of the category «pedagogical communication», outlines the features of this phenomenon, in particular: clear definition of goals, asymmetry of the roles of communicators, an educational component and the need for constant feedback.
The author emphasizes that an important element of the effective work of a teacher is the management of pedagogical communication, in particular the identification and analysis of obstacles and barriers in communication, overcoming them and ensuring effective interaction. The article considers a number of obstacles in pedagogical communication, such as information filtering, selective perception, poor feedback, cultural differences and information overload, communication barriers that take place in the interaction of the teacher with students and other participants of the educational process are analyzed. Various tools are identified to overcome these problems, including constant feedback, differentiation of teaching methods, diversification of forms of communication, development of intercultural competence and structuring of educational information. The article emphasizes the importance of effective communication for achieving success in the educational process and personality development of students. Teachers need to take into account the individual needs of students, provide feedback and minimize information overload to avoid misunderstandings. Effective management of pedagogical communication involves establishing interaction between all participants in the educational process, overcoming communication barriers, and adapting information to the individual needs of students.
FACTORS OF INFLUENCE ON THE PROCESS OF SPORTS SELECTION OF YOUNG ATHLETES
Authors: Khomenko P. , Zaitseva Yu.
Published: November 2024

The article provides a theoretical analysis of the main objective and subjective factors influencing the quality and effectiveness of the initial sports selection process in the current conditions of sports development, which will enable the implementation of new approaches to organizing and conducting the recruitment of children to engage in various sports activities.
It is determined that sports selection is an important stage in the formation of future champions, and the correct identification of young talents determines not only their athletic development but also their potential achievements on the international stage. The selection process is influenced by a range of factors that interact in a complex manner, creating specific conditions for the successful development of young sportsman.
It is established that one of the key factors is motivation towards the chosen kind of sport, which significantly influences a child’s desire to engage in sports over a long period and achieve high sports results. Motivated sportsmen show a willingness to make the most of their opportunities for sports development during the training process, overcome challenges more effectively, and are more driven toward self-improvement, which ultimately contributes to their success in the sports arena.
The factor influencing the sports selection process – the health status of the child – has been analyzed, as it directly determines the young sportsman ability to endure physical exertion and participate in training and competitions. Children with strong health have a greater chance of realizing their sport potential, as they can train systematically without the risk of injuries and illnesses. Proper attention to the child’s physical condition enables the effective selection of sportsman with the best prospects for development.
The important role of the professional competence of the coaching and teaching staff in the sports selection of young athletes is emphasized, and it is found that highly qualified coaches are capable not only of accurately assessing a child’s potential but also of adapting the training process to their individual needs and abilities, promoting optimal and well-rounded development. Experienced coaches also play a key role in motivating athletes, fostering discipline, and shaping a strong sports culture.
Factor of the war in Ukraine is highlighted, which significantly impacts the process of sports selection. It is noted that military actions lead to the destruction of sports infrastructure, limit access to training facilities, reduce financial support for sports, and create serious psychological barriers for children and coaches. However, in some cases, patriotic sentiments can strengthen athletes’ motivation to reach new heights while representing their country on the international stage.
It is significance of each identified factor influencing sports selection has been recognized, and their comprehensive impact on the selection of young athletes has been established.
LEGAL CULTURE AS AN IMPORTANT ASPECT OF CONTINUOUS HUMANITARIAN TRAINING
Authors: Bukhun A. , Gryshchenko L. , Kindiak O.
Published: November 2024

The article analyzes in detail the importance of legal culture in the context of reforming the educational system of Ukraine, with an emphasis on its significant role in training future professionals. The authors emphasize that legal culture is a key aspect of professional competence formation, as it ensures not only the acquisition of legal knowledge, but also the development of legal awareness and civic responsibility. In a modern state governed by the rule of law, which seeks to integrate with the European educational space, the formation of legal culture is of particular importance, as it allows future professionals to function in accordance with the requirements of the legal field. The author emphasizes the need to integrate legal knowledge into training programs for specialists in various fields, in particular in the pedagogical sphere, where legal culture should become an integral part of professional education. This will allow students not only to acquire basic legal knowledge but also to develop skills of lawful behavior, the ability to critically analyze legal situations and apply legislation in practice.
The article emphasizes that legal culture contributes to the education of conscious citizens who are able to protect their rights, comply with the law and actively participate in public life. In general, legal culture is seen as an important tool that contributes to the development of a high level of legal awareness, respect for the law and readiness to actively participate in building a democratic society among future professionals. The research methodology is based on the general theoretical methods of analysis, synthesis, abstraction and a systematic approach, which allows revealing the main trends and prospects for the formation of legal culture in the process of continuous humanitarian training; the author also considers the experience of forming legal culture in pedagogical educational institutions and the role of legal education in training specialists capable of lawful activity and active participation in the formation of law and order in society.
UKRAINIAN FOLK COSTUME AS AN IMPORTANT HISTORICAL PHENOMENON
Authors: Tytarenko V.
Published: November 2024

The article is devoted to folk costume as an element of the material and spiritual heritage of Ukrainians. The research aims to analyze a folk costume as an essential carrier of Ukrainians’ material culture. The key stages of the development of Ukrainian costume in the historical context are described. Literary sources that are the basis for the study of Ukrainian folk costume as an important historical phenomenon are analyzed.
The value of studying the educational component «History of Ukrainian Costume» by higher education students is outlined. The author’s experience of teaching this discipline at Poltava V. G. Korolenko National Pedagogical University is presented. The effectiveness of involving students in research activities, including the analysis of printed sources, visiting museum collections, and collecting and reproducing samples of folk costumes, is emphasized. The tasks for practical classes on the «History of Ukrainian Costume» are proposed.
The article presents the regional peculiarities of clothing production in different regions of Ukraine based on the division of traditional costume elements into undergarments, waist, chest, outerwear, belts, hats, shoes, and jewelry. The main local features of Ukrainian clothing are cut, silhouette, coloring, decorative and ornamental solutions, and form. The characteristics and division into types of each costume element are given. The features of Poltava traditional costumes are described: women’s Poltava shirts, the most common men’s shirt «Chumachka», kersetki with 3, 5, 7, or 9 «whiskers», «Veremiyivsky» dukachs. The article examines the belt as an important element of the costume, the materials from which it was made, and the decoration variants.
Los efectos causados por el terremoto de Riobamba de 1797 en la población indígena
Authors: Burgos Mejia Gina Marcela , Miniguano Trujillo Andrea Soledad
Published: November 2024

El documento analiza el terremoto de Riobamba de 1797, uno de los más destructivos en la historia colonial de América Latina. Este evento no solo provocó devastación material, sino que también expuso y exacerbó las desigualdades sociales, particularmente las sufridas por la población indígena bajo el régimen colonial español. La respuesta de las autoridades coloniales se enfocó en proteger los bienes de la élite y la Corona, mientras los indígenas quedaron desatendidos, mostrando una jerarquía social rígida. Se destacan las tensiones sociales, los abusos, y las formas de resistencia indígena, utilizando fuentes históricas y teorías contemporáneas para ilustrar cómo el desastre natural interactuó con las dinámicas de poder coloniales.