bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulating a Massive Shift towards Photovoltaics without Implying Land Consumption: A Stepwise Approach for Regional Decision Making
Authors: Zardo Linda , Teso Lorenzo , Romagnoni Piercarlo
Published: April 2024

As part of the transition to renewable energy production, the use of photovoltaics is not sustainable per se. Planning can guide PV development while minimising possible negative impacts on society, the economy, and the environment. To date, however, the lack of adequate tools and information at the local level and the lack of integrated planning in the design of energy initiatives are key challenges. This paper aims to support a sustainable energy transition at the regional level and proposes a methodology to (i) determine the area required to achieve transition goals through PV; (ii) evaluate possible alternative surface categories for PV installation without consuming additional land. Through the illustrative case study of the Veneto Region, electricity demand is calculated based on consumption data, and the area needed to cover this demand through PV is calculated. Areas available for PV installation were mapped, classified (e.g., roofs of houses, parking lots, school buildings, …), and quantified through GIS. The results show that the available areas correspond to 11 times those needed to achieve the goals. This work provides a methodology to support regional decision makers to take a concrete step toward sustainable transition policies. This methodology can be replicated for other regional contexts.
Sustainability in English Language Teaching: Strategies for Empowering Students to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Yu Beibei , Guo Wu Yuan , Fu Hongpeng
Published: April 2024

This article systematically reviews the studies integrating sustainability into English Language Teaching (ELT), underlining the critical role of education in addressing global environmental challenges through language learning. Through an extensive literature review encompassing empirical studies, theoretical articles, and case studies from 2013 to 2023, we evaluate the methodologies for incorporating sustainability in ELT, identify the challenges faced by educators, and propose practical solutions. Key findings demonstrate various effective approaches, such as interdisciplinary curriculum designs, innovative classroom activities, specialized teacher training, and novel assessment methods, which enhance language proficiency and significantly raise students’ language-learning awareness. Despite challenges such as limited resources and alignment issues between sustainability topics and language-learning objectives, strategies like developing open educational resources and professional development programs have shown promise in overcoming these obstacles. The review underscores the importance of embedding sustainability in ELT to foster informed, responsible global citizens and highlights future research directions to further this aim. It calls for continued innovation, research, and policy support to fully realize the potential of ELT in contributing to a more sustainable future.
Nutrition and Nature: Means-End Theory in Crafting Sustainable and Health-Conscious Meal Kit Experiences
Authors: Sonmez Damla , Taylor Scott
Published: April 2024

Meal kits have become increasingly popular as a convenient solution for consumers seeking to prepare high-quality meals at home, falling under the ready-to-cook category. The rising number of subscriptions and the growing presence of companies offering meal kit services illustrate the popularity of this industry. The aims of this study include (a) identifying consumer perceptions of the health and sustainability aspects of meal kit services; (b) exploring how these perceptions influence consumer satisfaction; (c) examining the influence of consumer satisfaction on the intention to repurchase meal kits and recommend them to others; and (d) investigating potential significant differences among meal kit users with dietary, health, and environmental concerns. This exploration encompasses the effects of meal kits’ attributes on each group’s perceived value, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions. The partial least squares technique was utilized to test the research model using SmartPLS 4. Results of the current study support findings of past research suggesting that consumer perceptions of sustainability and healthiness positively influence their satisfaction and consequently their behavioral intentions. The findings of this study also offer practical implications for meal kit companies. Since consumer satisfaction is significantly influenced by both perceived healthiness and sustainability, companies should re-consider their branding strategies by focusing more on environmentally friendly advertising that makes connections between their attributes.
Ljubljana—European Green Capital 2016: From Strategic Spatial Planning to Governance
Authors: Dimitrovska Andrews Kaliopa , Nikšič Matej , Mladenovič Luka , Cotič Boštjan , Mušič Barbara , Kerbler Boštjan
Published: April 2024

Ljubljana was the first post-socialist city awarded with the title European Green Capital. The title awarded by the European Commission is given to a city that is achieving high environmental standards, is setting ambitious goals for further environmental improvement and sustainable development, and can act as a role model to inspire other cities and promote best practices to all other European cities. The article is based on a hypothesis that at the moment when Ljubljana applied for (and was awarded) the European Green Capital title, it had strong strategic spatial planning and successful territorial governance, as well as the interweaving of both. To prove the hypothesis, the timetable and characteristics of the strategic spatial planning and territorial governance in Ljubljana are presented in this article and critically evaluated. Critical evaluation and analyses are also assessed using a qualitative research method, i.e., semi-structured in-depth interviews among experts from four professional fields including spatial planning, urbanism, architecture, and management. The results confirmed the hypothesis: Ljubljana’s sustainability-oriented strategic spatial plan prepared by a variety of stakeholders, experts, and citizens, as well as the effective governance system established by the mayor, a manager by profession, were two factors that coincided at a crucial moment. This was recognized by the European Commission and Ljubljana was awarded a prestigious title. Ljubljana can therefore serve as an excellent sustainable example for other post-socialist cities in terms of strategic spatial planning and governance.
BTEX Assessment among Informal Charcoal-Burning Food Traders for Cleaner and Sustainable Environment
Authors: Phama Lebogang , Keretetse Goitsemang , Mbonane Thokozani , Rathebe Phoka , Makae Robert , Masekameni Masilu Daniel
Published: April 2024

This study assessed the cleaner and sustainable environment by measuring emission levels of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) from informal food traders using charcoal as the primary source of energy at a flea market in Fordsburg, Johannesburg. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were measured using a real-time monitor (MiniRae 3000 photoionization detector); an indoor air quality (IAQ) monitor was used to monitor environmental parameters and passive samplers in the form of Radiello badges, which were used to determine BTEX emissions from charcoal used during food preparation. Measurements were taken at 1.5 m above ground assuming the receptor’s breathing circumference using PID and Radiello. PID data were downloaded and analyzed using Microsoft Excel (Version 2019). Radiellos were sent to the laboratory to determine the BTEX levels from the total VOCs. The total volatile organic compound (TVOC) concentration over the combustion cycle was 306.7 ± 62.8 ppm. The flaming phase had the highest VOC concentration (547 ± 110.46 ppm), followed by the ignition phase (339.44 ± 40.6 ppm) and coking with the lowest concentration (24.64 ± 14.3). The average BTEX concentration was 15.7 ± 5.9 µg/m3 corresponding to the entire combustion cycle. BTEX concentrations were highest at the flaming phase (23.6 µg/m3) followed by the ignition (13.4 µg/m3) and coking phase (9.45 µg/m3). Ignition phase versus the flaming phase, there was a significant difference at 95% at a p-value of 0.09; ignition phase versus the coking phase, there was a significant difference at 95% at a p-value of 0.039; and coking phase versus the flaming phase, there was a significant difference at 95% at a p-value of 0.025. When compared to the occupational exposure limits (OELs), none of the exposure concentrations (BTEX) were above the 8 h exposure limit. The findings of this study suggest that charcoal, as a source of energy, can still be a useful and sustainable fuel for informal food traders. Shortening the ignition and flaming phase duration by using a fan to supply sufficient air can further reduce exposure to VOCs.
Gathering and Cooking Seaweeds in Contemporary Ireland: Beyond Plant Foraging and Trendy Gastronomies
Authors: Zocchi Dauro M. , Mattalia Giulia , Santos Nascimento Jeovana , Grant Ryan Marley , Martin Jack Edwin , Sexton Regina , Romano Chiara , Pieroni Andrea
Published: April 2024

Seaweed has historically been essential for coastal communities worldwide. Following a period of decline in the last century, Ireland has seen a recent resurgence in the appreciation and use of seaweed. This research explores the evolution in seaweed foraging practices, with a specific focus on gastronomical uses in two Irish regions: the southwest and the west and midwest. It examines the diversity of seaweed and its present and past uses, comparing abandonment, continuation and revitalisation trajectories. Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 27 individuals who forage seaweed for commercial or personal use. We identified 22 seaweed species across the study areas, predominantly from the Fucaceae, Laminariaceae and Ulvaceae families. There was a fair divergence between the seaweed species used in the two study areas (16 seaweed species in the southwest region and 17 seaweed species in the west and midwest region), with 11 species mentioned in both areas. Different trajectories of resurgence were identified. In the west and midwest region, the revitalisation of local ecological and gastronomic knowledge related to seaweeds seems to be deeply entrenched in the territory’s historical legacy, showing a sort of continuation with the past and having followed a more commercially oriented path. Conversely, in the southwest region, the revival seems to be fostered by new knowledge holders with a contemporary interest in reconnecting with the marine landscape and promoting educational activities centred around seaweed. This research contributes to discussions on sustainable food systems and food heritage promotion, emphasising seaweed’s potential role in Irish coastal communities’ foodscapes.
Common Fixed-Point Theorem and Projection Method on a Hadamard Space
Authors: Kimura Yasunori
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we obtain an equivalent condition to the existence of a common fixed point of a given family of nonexpansive mappings defined on a Hadamard space. Moreover, if the space is bounded, we show that the generating process of the approximate sequence by a specific projection method will stop in finite steps if there is no common fixed point. It is a significant advantage to reveal the nonexistence of a common fixed point in a finite time.
Concordance between In Vitro and In Vivo Relative Toxic Potencies of Diesel Exhaust Particles from Different Biodiesel Blends
Authors: Karthikeyan Subramanian , Breznan Dalibor , Thomson Errol M. , Blais Erica , Vincent Renaud , Kumarathasan Premkumari
Published: April 2024

Diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) contribute to air pollution exposure-related adverse health impacts. Here, we examined in vitro, and in vivo toxicities of DEPs from a Caterpillar C11 heavy-duty diesel engine emissions using ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) and biodiesel blends (20% v/v) of canola (B20C), soy (B20S), or tallow–waste fry oil (B20T) in ULSD. The in vitro effects of DEPs (DEPULSD, DEPB20C, DEPB20S, and DEPB20T) in exposed mouse monocyte/macrophage cells (J774A.1) were examined by analyzing the cellular cytotoxicity endpoints (CTB, LDH, and ATP) and secreted proteins. The in vivo effects were assessed in BALB/c mice (n = 6/group) exposed to DEPs (250 µg), carbon black (CB), or saline via intratracheal instillation 24 h post-exposure. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cell counts, cytokines, lung/heart mRNA, and plasma markers were examined. In vitro cytotoxic potencies (e.g., ATP) and secreted TNF-α were positively correlated (p < 0.05) with in vivo inflammatory potency (BALF cytokines, lung/heart mRNA, and plasma markers). Overall, DEPULSD and DEPB20C appeared to be more potent compared to DEPB20S and DEPB20T. These findings suggested that biodiesel blend-derived DEP potencies can be influenced by biodiesel sources, and inflammatory process- was one of the potential underlying toxicity mechanisms. These observations were consistent across in vitro and in vivo exposures, and this work adds value to the health risk analysis of cleaner fuel alternatives.
Do It Yourself! Collaborative Processes for Inclusive Design and Capacity Building in Louisiana (USA)
Authors: Paragliola Federica , Esposito De Vita Gabriella , Deal Brad , Rigillo Marina , De Paola Pasquale , Bevilacqua Carmelina
Published: April 2024

This paper delves into integrating technological and social innovations in design through a community-oriented, resilient approach, emphasizing care and sustainability. It explores resource management’s application to the local environment and education, focusing on adaptable spaces, active collaboration, and innovative solutions for environmental and social challenges. Developed within the EU Marie Curie-funded TREnD project, it combines ‘transition’ and ‘resilience-building’ processes, framing co-creation solutions and tailored innovation policies. The research group conducted theoretical and empirical research in the EU and USA, introducing a place-sensitive approach in managing transition through technological diversification. A case study in Ruston (LA, USA), Camp Alabama, exemplifies inclusive design through circular design and low-tech construction, creating adaptable pavilions for the community. Collaborating with MedCamps of Louisiana, the project designs a shared and inclusive space within budget constraints, emphasizing the pivotal role of architecture in advancing community well-being. Employing a bottom-up approach, the practice engages users, students, teachers, and local stakeholders in co-design, resulting in a people-based citadel of care. Outcomes feature high-design technological projects produced through a “low-tech” approach, allowing adaptability in urban regeneration. The 2023 project received awards, showcasing progress and the potential for replication through standardized methodology. Additional outcomes include educational benefits, training architects for societal needs, and regenerating urban areas by exploiting local resources.
Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant (B.1.617.2) in Domestic Dogs and Zoo Tigers in England and Jersey during 2021
Authors: Seekings Amanda H. , Shipley Rebecca , Byrne Alexander M. P. , Shukla Shweta , Golding Megan , Amaya-Cuesta Joan , Goharriz Hooman , Vitores Ana Gómez , Lean Fabian Z. X. , James Joe , Núñez Alejandro , Breed Alistair , Frost Andrew , Balzer Jörg , Brown Ian H. , Brookes Sharon M. , McElhinney Lorraine M.
Published: April 2024

Reverse zoonotic transmission events of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been described since the start of the pandemic, and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) designated the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in animals a reportable disease. Eighteen domestic and zoo animals in Great Britain and Jersey were tested by APHA for SARS-CoV-2 during 2020–2023. One domestic cat (Felis catus), three domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), and three Amur tigers (Panthera tigris altaica) from a zoo were confirmed positive during 2020–2021 and reported to the WOAH. All seven positive animals were linked with known SARS-CoV-2 positive human contacts. Characterisation of the SARS-CoV-2 variants by genome sequencing indicated that the cat was infected with an early SARS-CoV-2 lineage. The three dogs and three tigers were infected with the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant of concern (B.1.617.2). The role of non-human species in the onward transmission and emergence of new variants of SARS-CoV-2 remain poorly defined. Continued surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in relevant domestic and captive animal species with high levels of human contact is important to monitor transmission at the human−animal interface and to assess their role as potential animal reservoirs.
Burden, Outcome, and Comorbidities of Extrahepatic Manifestations in Hepatitis B Virus Infections
Authors: Songtanin Busara , Chaisrimaneepan Nattanicha , Mendóza Roberto , Nugent Kenneth
Published: April 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections affect approximately 296 million people around the world, and the prevalence of any past or present HBV infection during the years 2015–2018 was as high as 4.3%. Acute HBV infection often presents with nonspecific symptoms and is usually self-limited, but 5% of patients can have persistent infections leading to chronic HBV infection and the risk of turning into chronic HBV infection is significantly higher in babies with vertical transmission (95%). Patients with chronic HBV infection are usually asymptomatic, but 15 to 40% of chronic HBV carriers develop cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. In addition to liver-related disorders, HBV is also associated with several extrahepatic complications, including glomerulonephritis, cryoglobulinemia, neurologic disorders, psychological manifestations, polyarthritis, and dermatologic disorders. Making the diagnosis of HBV can be challenging since patients with chronic infections can remain symptom-free for decades before developing cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma, and patients with acute HBV infection may have only mild, nonspecific symptoms. Therefore, understanding how this virus causes extrahepatic complications can help clinicians consider this possibility in patients with diverse symptom presentations. The pathophysiology of these extrahepatic disorders likely involves immune-related tissue injury following immune complex formation and inflammatory cascades. In some cases, direct viral infection of extrahepatic tissue may cause a clinical syndrome. Currently, the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases recommends treatment of chronic HBV infections with interferon therapy and/or nucleos(t)ide analogs, and this treatment has been reported to improve some extrahepatic disorders in some patients with chronic HBV infection. These extrahepatic complications have a significant role in disease outcomes and increase medical costs, morbidity, and mortality. Therefore, understanding the frequency and pathogenesis of these extrahepatic complications provides important information for both specialists and nonspecialists and may help clinicians identify patients at an earlier stage of their infection.
p-Phenylenediamine Derivatives in Tap Water: Implications for Human Exposure
Authors: Zhu Jianqiang , Guo Ruyue , Ren Fangfang , Jiang Shengtao , Jin Hangbiao
Published: April 2024

Human exposure to p-phenylenediamine derivatives (PPDs) may induce hepatotoxicity and altered glycolipid metabolism. Recent studies have demonstrated the wide presence of PPDs in environmental matrixes. However, until now, the occurrence of PPDs in tap water has not been well known. This study analyzed nine PPDs in tap water collected from Hangzhou and Taizhou, China. The results showed that seven PPDs were detected in tap water samples from Hangzhou (n = 131), with the concentration of total detected PPDs ranging from 0.29 to 7.9 ng/L (mean: 1.6 ng/L). N-(1, 3-dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD; mean: 0.79 ng/L, <LOD−5.7 ng/L) was the predominant PPD in tap water from Hangzhou, followed by N, N′-di-2-butyl-p-phenylenediamine (44PD; 0.39 ng/L, <LOD−2.2 ng/L) and N-isopropyl-N′-phenyl-1, 4-phenylenediamine (IPPD; 0.31 ng/L, <LOD−1.4 ng/L). Five PPDs were detected in tap water collected from Taizhou (n = 30). N-phenyl-N′-cyclohexyl-p-phenylenediamine (CPPD; mean: 1.0 ng/L, <LOD−4.2 ng/L) was the predominant PPD in tap water from Taizhou, followed by 6PPD (0.93 ng/L, <LOD−2.6 ng/L) and 44PD (0.78 ng/L, <LOD−1.8 ng/L). The mean daily intake (DI) of PPDs for adults and children in Hangzhou was estimated to be 4.9–24 and 6.4–32 pg/kg bw/day, respectively. Meanwhile, the mean DI of PPDs for adults and children living in Taizhou was 11–31 and 14–40 pg/kg bw/day, respectively. To our knowledge, this study provides the first data on the occurrence of PPDs in tap water, which is vital for human exposure risk assessment.
Decoupling Agricultural Grey Water Footprint from Economic Growth in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Xiao Yunan , Ramsey Thomas Stephen , Li Songpu , Peng Qingling
Published: April 2024

Decoupling agricultural economic growth from agricultural water pollution is of great importance to regional sustainable development. It is necessary to further explore the decoupling state and key driving factors connecting agricultural water pollution and agricultural economic growth on the basis of accurate measurement of agricultural water pollution. Accordingly, taking the Yellow River Basin (YRB) as the research object, this study combined the water footprint theory, the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) model and the Tapio decoupling model (TDM) to conduct an in-depth decoupling analysis of the connection between the agricultural grey water footprint (AGWF) and agricultural economic growth in the YRB. Specifically, this study first calculated the AGWF of the YRB during 2016–2021 and objectively evaluated the water resource utilization in this region based on the AGWF. Then, the LMDI model was used to explore the driving factors of the AGWF in the YRB. Finally, the decoupling states between the AGWF and its driving factors with agricultural GDP (AGDP) were studied using the TDM. The main results are as follows: (1) The overall AGWF in the YRB showed a decreasing trend and a slow increase, decreasing by 5.39% in 2021 compared to 2016. (2) The primary promoting factor and inhibiting factor of AGWF reduction are the efficiency effect and agricultural economic effect, respectively. (3) The decoupling states of the AGWF and AGDP presented strong decoupling (SD) and then weak decoupling (WD) in the YRB during the research period. The decoupling states between the agricultural grey water footprint intensity (AGWFI) and AGDP changed from expansive negative decoupling (END) to SD. The decoupling state of population and AGDP remained SD. This study will contribute to alleviating agricultural water pollution in the YRB and help policymakers in water-stressed countries to formulate agricultural water management policies.
Irrigation Distribution Network Design Parameters and Their Influence on Sustainability Management
Authors: Garcia-Espinal Melvin Alfonso , Pérez-Sánchez Modesto , Sánchez-Romero Francisco-Javier , López-Jiménez P. Amparo
Published: April 2024

In 2030, the world population will exceed 8.5 billion, increasing the challenges to satisfy basic needs for food, shelter, water, and/or energy. Irrigation plays a vital role in productive and sustainable agriculture. In the current context, it is determined not only by water availability but also by optimal management. Several authors have attempted to measure the performance of irrigation networks through various approaches in terms of technical indicators. To improve the sustainability in the pipe sizing of the pressurised irrigation networks, 25 different models were evaluated to discuss the advantages and disadvantages to consider in future methodologies to size water systems, which guarantee the network operation but contribute to improving the sustainability. They enable water managers to use them as tools to reduce a complex evaluation of the performance of a system, and focusing on better management of resources and sustainability indicators for agricultural ecosystems are clear and objective values.
Encounters with Care in a Scottish Residential School in the 1980s
Authors: Smith Mark
Published: April 2024

The meaning of care in residential child care is under-developed. It can often be represented through its absence, seen as offering at best basic physical tending but lacking emotional connection or warmth. At worst, residential care settings said to be institutionally abusive can be characterised as being antithetical to what we might imagine care should be. Residential schools and especially those run by religious orders attract particular opprobrium in this regard. In this article, I adopt a broadly autoethnographic approach to reflect on how boys (now men in their late 40s and early 50s) brought up in the 1980s in a Scottish residential school recall being cared for. The article uses Axel Honneth’s theory of recognition and its three pillars of love, rights and solidarity to group themes from how former pupils speak about their experiences of care. These accounts challenge the received narrative of such settings failing to offer care. The discussion reflects some ideas around care and about how we understand public care historically.
Comercio Justo en la Economía Popular y Solidaria, parroquia La Iberia
Authors: León Serrano Lady Andrea , León Serrano Ubaldo Segundo , Mora Jiménez Miguel Geovanny
Published: April 2024

Una de las nuevas formas de hacer economía, ha sido a través de la Economía Popular y Solidaria con un enfoque de convivencia comunitaria e igualdad de derechos asociativos, desde la aprobación de la Constitución de la República de Ecuador en 2008 y la Ley Orgánica de EPS en 2011, los esquemas cambiaron con el acompañamiento del Estado como parte de las nuevas prácticas de comercialización y cuidado con el medio ambiente. Por tal motivo, la presente investigación tuvo como objetivo principal analizar la aplicación del comercio justo en los comercios de la Economía Popular y Solidaria (EPS) de la parroquia La Iberia, del cantón El Guabo. De esta manera, la metodología aplicada fue de tipo descriptivo y enfoque exploratorio con visita de campo, se aplicó una encuesta como instrumento de investigación para el análisis interpretativo sobre el comercio justo en las actividades de los comercios de la EPS. Los resultados demostraron, que los emprendimientos fueron iniciados por comerciantes jóvenes, las actividades económicas de mayor presencia pertenecieron a la venta de víveres en tienda de abarrotes, comidas, ropa, útiles escolares y servicios de peluquería, con una inversión inicial de Usd 701 hasta 1000 en promedio, además del poco seguimiento en los procesos de comercialización por parte del ente de control. Las conclusiones determinaron que el Estado tiene poca presencia en las actividades de buenas prácticas de comercio justo de los comercios de la EPS, es decir escaso seguimiento y control lo que afecta el establecimiento de precios justos, pues los mecanismos de políticas públicas son fundamentales para la productividad de un segmento que aporta con más del 60% de los ingresos del PIB nacional.
FORMATION OF PROFESSIONAL SKILLS OF SPECIALISTS IN THE OPERATION OF TRANSPORT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE LABOR MARKET
Authors:   FSBEI HE Perm SATU, Guryanov Sergey Gennadievich
Published: April 2024

The article presents the experience of automated analysis of the corpus of job advertisements relevant for graduates of the training direction 23.03.03 «Operation of transport and technological machines and complexes». As part of the study, 20516 vacancies in the automotive business and related sub-sectors were collected and analyzed. The location of vacancies, the aver-age salary are determined, the most frequent requirements for applicants are identified. The results of the analysis are correlated with the main provisions of the educational program, on the basis of which conclusions are drawn about the need for systematic consideration of employers' require-ments to improve the quality of training specialists.
CONTROL OF THE DYNAMIC DIMENSION OF THE VEHICLE USING NEURAL NETWORKS
Authors:   Perm State Agricultural and Technological University, Shaikhov Rinat Fidarisovich
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study is to develop a system for monitoring and informing the driver about the safe distance to the vehicle moving in front. The dynamic size of the car depends on a large number of factors and can change during one trip, lack of experience or overwork of the driver can cause non-compliance with the distance and, as a result, a traffic accident. A computer program using neural networks has been developed that allows determining the dynamic dimension of a vehicle depending on operating conditions. The results of the program calculation differ from experimental studies by no more than 3.5%.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES OF THE ADHESION STRENGTH OF A SOLID ANTIFRICTION COATING TO THE SUBSTRATE
Authors:   Orel State University, Rodichev Alekse Yrievich , Rodicheva Irina Vladimirovna ,   Orel State University, Vasiliev Kirill Vladimirovich ,   Orel State University, Serebrennikov Artem Dmitrievich ,   Orel State University
Published: April 2024

The article presents a detailed study of individual samples of MODENGY solid antifriction coatings. The selected solid antifriction coatings are described, the roughness of the applied coatings is analyzed, and measurements of the thickness of the antifriction layer on the surface of steel samples are given. The methodology for determining the quantitative assessment of the adhe-sion strength of a solid antifriction coating based on GOST 32299-2013 was analyzed and a set of experiments using a bursting machine with a built-in electronic force meter IR 5047-50 was con-ducted. As a result, a quantitative assessment of the adhesion strength of solid antifriction coatings with a steel base was obtained. Conclusions are drawn about the adhesion strength of solid antifriction coatings. Recommendations on their use for automotive equipment are given.
CURRENT PROBLEMS AND IMPROVEMENT OF METHODS OF INSPECTION OF A ROAD ACCIDENT SITE
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Evtyukov Stanislav Sergeevich , Brylev Ilya Sergeevich ,   St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Poletaev Nikita Olegovich ,   St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering
Published: April 2024

Actual problems are considered when the traffic police officers conduct an initial inspection of the site of a traffic accident and the vehicles involved in it. The gaps in the current legislative acts that hinder the effective solution of problems arising in the process of investigating the causes of an accident are identified. Processes are proposed to improve the methods for conducting an initial inspection of the accident site, which contribute to the most reliable reconstruction of the vehicle collision mechanism and increase the efficiency of investigating the causes of an accident.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MEANS OF FIXING SPATIAL AND TRACE INFORMATION FROM THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT ON THE EXAMPLE OF COLLISIONS ON ROAD FENCES AND ROAD CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Vasiliev Yaroslav Vladimirovich , Alekseev Mikhail Dmitrievich ,   St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Novikov Alexander Nikolaevich ,   Oryol State University, Mikhaleva Darya Sergeevna ,   Oryol State University
Published: April 2024

The primary spatial and trace information from the scene of a traffic accident is considered. The analysis of indicators for the performed road transport examinations was carried out, as well as the analysis of the effectiveness of technologies and means of fixing the spatial and trace information of the place of a traffic accident and objects of research according to indexed criteria was carried out.
FEATURES OF METHODS FOR DEVELOPING THE ARCHITECTURE OF INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
Authors:   Don State Technical University, Wang Runzhou
Published: April 2024

This paper considers the development steps and key points of China's intelligent transportation system architecture, and, at the same time, explains the transformation between the stages and the integration of the logical architecture, thus forming a data flow diagram of the logical architecture. The physical architecture is formed on the basis of the logical architecture, and provides the basis for the proposed application system with Chinese characteristics.
THE INFLUENCE OF DRIVING EXPERIENCE ON TRAFFIC ACCIDENT RATE
Authors:   Belgorod State Technological University, Kushchenko Liliya Evgen’evna , Kushchenko Sergey Viktorovich ,   Belgorod State Technological University, Korolyova Liliya Alexandrovna ,   Belgorod State Technological University, Savenkova Arina Yur’evna ,   Belgorod State Technological University
Published: April 2024

The analysis of traffic accidents and driver training in different countries is considered. The main causes of traffic accidents are analyzed and governments’ measures to improve road safety are considered. Various driver training programs in different countries are considered and their effectiveness is revealed
FEATURES OF TESTING ELECTRIC MOTORS OF MOTOR VEHICLES UNDER LOAD
Authors:   Perm National Research Polytechnic University, Lobov Nikolay Vladimirovich , Afanasyev Valery Valerievich ,   Perm National Research Polytechnic University
Published: April 2024

Based on the comparative analysis of the working processes of reciprocating and electric motors in motor vehicles, as well as methods of their testing under load, the expediency of developing a new test regulation for electric vehicle power plants is justified. As follows from the content of the article, there is currently no such regulation. A schematic diagram of a stand for testing power plants of vehicles with an electric motor is presented.
ISSUES OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INFORMATION MODEL OF THE «INTELLIGENT» VEHICLE CHECKPOINT THROUGH THE CUSTOMS BORDER IN ENSURING TRANSIT TRANSPORTATION
Authors:   LLC Scientific and production organization «GIDROPRIVODSPETSMASH», Burygin Alexey Anatolyevich , Efimenko Dmitry Borisovich ,   Moscow Automobile and Road Engineering State Tech-nical University (MADI), Leonov Ivan Alexandrovich ,   LLC «METALLIST PLANT», Grunin Sergey Ilyich ,   LLC Scientific and production organization «GIDROPRIVODSPETSMASH»
Published: April 2024

In this article, the authors explore the main promising opportunities and problems of the development of cross-border auto transport of goods by improving electronic document management, as well as increasing the efficiency of using electronic documents when placing goods and vehicles under the customs procedure of customs transit in the Russian Federation. Based on the analysis of customs operations and customs control, information interaction between government authorities and subjects of the supply chain, carried out, inter alia, with the help of automated means and systems upon arrival of a vehicle at an international automobile checkpoint and crossing the customs border of the Eurasian Economic Union for the purposes of subsequent placement under the customs procedure of customs transit, the authors draw conclusions about the expediency of creating systems of cumulative electronic dossier (CED) as a promising source of extended, most complete and objective information used for customs purposes, providing an increased level of optimization of the «intellectural» check-point and intensive development of the transit potential of the Russian Federation.
Competitividad de la industria agroexportadora del arándano en el Perú, 2015-2019
Authors: Ramírez Rodríguez Jorge Antonio , Mendoza Rivas Denís Leonor , Asnate Salazar Edwin Johny
Published: April 2024

Perú ha experimentado un notable crecimiento en la producción y exportación de arándanos en los últimos años, lo que ha contribuido significativamente a la economía del país. En este sentido, el objetivo de esta investigación fue explicar la inluencia de los determinantes estratégicos locales e internacionales en la competitividad de la industria agroexportadora del arándano (IAA) en el Perú. El tipo de estudio es comparativo y longitudinal se utilizó el modelo científico hipotético-deductivo del doble diamante de competitividad comparando: Perú y Chile en el periodo 2015-2019. Los resultados muestran que, en los años 2015 y 2016, Chile ha sido más competitivo que Perú porque presenta determinantes estratégicos globales de mayor valor lo cual se corrobora con el Índice de Valoración de la Competitividad Relativa (IVCR) correspondientes. En los años 2017, 2018 y 2019, Perú. ha sido más competitivo que Chile porque presenta los diamantes globales de mayor valor lo cual se corrobora con los IVCR correspondientes. En el año 2015 la competitividad de la (IAA) del Perú ha sido 36,65% menor que la de Chile y en el año 2019 Perú ha sido 51,25% mayor que la de Chile.  Por lo tanto, se concluye que el menor costo de los factores, la mayor demanda, la mayor calidad de proveedores y sectores conexos, así como la mayor rivalidad empresarial, determinan la mayor competitividad de la IAA del Perú.
Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate in CKD, Hyperkalemia, and Metabolic Acidosis
Authors: Ash Stephen R. , Batlle Daniel , Kendrick Jessica , Oluwatosin Yemisi , Kooienga Laura , Eudicone James M. , Sundin Anna-Karin , Guerrieri Emily , Fried Linda F.
Published: April 2024

Key Points

Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate effectively lowers serum potassium and maintains normokalemia in patients with CKD with concomitant hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis.

Despite high screen failure and small sample size, a nominally significant increase in sHCO3
– was seen for sodium zirconium cyclosilicate versus placebo.

Further studies on the basis of an appropriate cohort size may help validate the trend observed in sHCO3
– levels, supporting these clinically relevant findings.

Background

Metabolic acidosis and hyperkalemia are common in CKD. A potential dual effect of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC), a selective binder of potassium in the gastrointestinal tract, on serum potassium (sK+) and serum bicarbonate (sHCO3
−) was evaluated in patients with hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis associated with CKD.

Methods

In the NEUTRALIZE study (NCT04727528), non-dialysis patients with stage 3–5 CKD, hyperkalemia (sK+>5.0 to ≤5.9 mmol/L), and metabolic acidosis (sHCO3
− 16–20 mmol/L) received open-label SZC 10 g three times daily for ≤48 hours. Patients achieving normokalemia (sK+ 3.5–5.0 mmol/L) were randomized 1:1 to SZC 10 g or placebo daily for 4 weeks. The primary end point was patients (%) maintaining normokalemia at the end of treatment (EOT) without rescue. Secondary end points included mean change in sHCO3
− at EOT (day 29) and patients (%) with normokalemia with a ≥3-mmol/L increase in sHCO3
− without rescue.

Results

Of 229 patients screened, 37 were randomized (SZC, n=17; placebo, n=20). High screen failure led to early study termination. At EOT, 88.2% (SZC) versus 20.0% (placebo) of patients maintained normokalemia (odds ratio, 56.2; P = 0.001). Low enrollment rendered secondary end point P values nominal. SZC treatment provided nominally significant increases in sHCO3
– versus placebo from day 15 onward. Patients with normokalemia with a ≥3-mmol/L increase in sHCO3
− without rescue were 35.3% (SZC) and 5.0% (placebo; P < 0.05). No new safety concerns were reported.

Conclusions

SZC effectively lowered sK+ and maintained normokalemia, with nominally significant increases in sHCO3
– observed for SZC versus placebo.
MODELS OF CULTURE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE NOVEL «THE GLASS BEAD GAME» BY H. HESSE
Authors:   University of customs and finance, Haponova L.
Published: April 2024

The article examines the models of culture in the context of Hermann Hesse’s novel «The Glass Bead Game», analyzes various aspects of the author’s system of values, which combines the created models of culture in this work. The purpose of this study is to show the structure and features of the models of culture created by H. Hesse on the basis of European culture with its history and philosophy, which served as the foundation for the formation of postmodernism in culture, art and literature. The subject of this study is the consideration of models of culture in the context of Hermann Hesse’s novel «The Glass Bead Game». In accordance with the purpose of the study, the following tasks were identified: to identify the structure and content of the concept of «culture model» as a cultural category, to determine the categorical apparatus of culture models and show the hierarchy of different types of culture models; define the concept of «model of culture»; characterize the common components and some individual features of the author’s culture models on the example of Hermann Hesse’s novel «The Glass Bead Game»; highlight the technique of modeling the author’s models of culture. The study of literature in the culturological aspect is especially productive in connection with the modern application of the synthesis of sciences, which has become widespread in scientific research. The study of literary subjects in the cultural aspect allows the most complete disclosure of the research subject and the development of new theoretical and methodological prerequisites for further scientific research in this direction. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the use of the culturological-categorical apparatus in the analysis of the work and the application of the theory of cultural models to the work of Н. Hesse, in particular, his novel «The Glass Bead Game». In the study, the work is an integral component of a single artistic space that unites literary creativity, science, and art. The methodological basis of this work was a complex schemethat combines the system-structural and comparative-analytical methods of research. As a result of scientific research, it was found that the pan-European history of culture and literature consists of many artistic trends such as the so-called «core models of culture», which includs national cultural models with their history and stages of development. The models of culture created by the author in the novel «The Glass Bead Game» are close to the cultural categories of the picture and the model of the world. The writer Н. Hessе in his work «The Glass Bead Game» created individual author’s artistic models of culture in the traditions of the postmodern trend in literature. Key words: culture, model of culture, context, novel «The Glass Bead Game», Hermann Hesse.
A Biomimetic Cement-Based Solid-State Electrolyte with Both High Strength and Ionic Conductivity for Self-Energy-Storage Buildings
Authors: Lin Wei , Xing Jiarui , Zhou Yang , Pan Long , Yang Li , Zhang Yuan , Liu Xiong Xiong , Xiong Chenchen , Li Weihuan , Sun ZhengMing
Published: April 2024

Cement-based materials are the foundation of modern buildings but suffer from intensive energy consumption. Utilizing cement-based materials for efficient energy storage is one of the most promising strategies for realizing zero-energy buildings. However, cement-based materials encounter challenges in achieving excellent electrochemical performance without compromising mechanical properties. Here, we introduce a biomimetic cement-based solid-state electrolyte (labeled as
l
-CPSSE) with artificially organized layered microstructures by proposing an in situ ice-templating strategy upon the cement hydration, in which the layered micropores are further filled with fast-ion-conducting hydrogels and serve as ion diffusion highways. With these merits, the obtained
l
-CPSSE not only presents marked specific bending and compressive strength (2.2 and 1.2 times that of traditional cement, respectively) but also exhibits excellent ionic conductivity (27.8 mS·cm
−1
), overwhelming most previously reported cement-based and hydrogel-based electrolytes. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, we assemble the
l
-CPSSE electrolytes with cement-based electrodes to achieve all-cement-based solid-state energy storage devices, delivering an outstanding full-cell specific capacity of 72.2 mF·cm
−2
. More importantly, a 5 × 5 cm
2
sized building model is successfully fabricated and operated by connecting 4
l
-CPSSE-based full cells in series, showcasing its great potential in self-energy-storage buildings. This work provides a general methodology for preparing revolutionary cement-based electrolytes and may pave the way for achieving zero-carbon buildings.
How to insert a full-thickness skin graft: a continuous quilting technique
Authors: Harrison Cameron , Sørensen Kristian
Published: April 2024

Full-thickness skin grafts (FTSGs) are usually secured with tie-over bolster dressings, quilting (or basting) sutures or a combination of both. This guide describes a modified technique of securing FTSGs by way of a continuous quilting suture to increase surgical efficiency. Stabilisation and prevention of haematoma are two important factors to allow a skin graft to take to its recipient site. This is most commonly provided by a tie-over dressing after suturing the graft in place. The technique of utilising quilting sutures placed in the graft as an alternative to bolster dressings has also been well documented. There has been no evidence to suggest a difference in rates of haematoma, seroma, neovascularisation and graft survival between these two techniques.
Body image in Australians compared to women with breast hypertrophy and US norms
Authors: Crittenden Tamara A , Ullinger Eva A , Dean Nicola R
Published: April 2024

**Background**: The Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ) is a widely used instrument to assess body image. This study aimed to assess MBSRQ Australian norms and test the hypotheses that these would be different to United States norms and to women with breast hypertrophy. Secondary aims were to understand socio-demographic determinants of scores and the change in body image satisfaction associated with breast reduction surgery.**Methods**: Australians ≥18 years were recruited according to the 2016 Census age and sex distribution. Participants completed MBSRQ-Appearance Scales (MBSRQ-AS) and provided socio-demographic information. A comparison was made to previously published US normative scores, to scores of women who had prospectively completed the MBSRQ before and after breast reduction surgery and to women with untreated breast hypertrophy. **Results**: Data for 1016 normative, 209 surgical and 161 breast hypertrophy control participants were analysed. MBSRQ-AS scores for Appearance evaluation and Body areas satisfaction were significantly lower for women than for men. Body mass index (BMI) was a significant predictor across all five scales, with a higher BMI associated with lower scores for appearance and satisfaction. Age and marital status were significant predictors for Body areas satisfaction and Overweight preoccupation. Differences between Australian MBSRQ-AS scale scores and US general population values were significant, with Australian values lower for both sexes. Women with breast hypertrophy had lower scores than population norms but this corrected with breast reduction surgery, with women having scores equivalent to the general population at 12 months post-surgery.**Conclusion**: The Australian population is a distinct population in terms of body image, as measured by the MBSRQ-AS. This normative dataset provides a useful reference for future health-related research in Australian cohorts. Women with breast hypertrophy have a body image that is lower than that of the normal population and this improves with surgery.