bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anesthetic Management for a Pregnant Patient with Bilateral Vocal Cord Granuloma Using High-Flow Nasal Cannula Oxygenation with Oxygen Reserve Index Monitoring: A Case Report
Authors: Kim Hyo Sung , Oh Seok Kyeong , Lee Jae Eun , Lee Hyun Ah , Cho Jae Gu
Published: September 2023

Anesthetic management for pregnant patients suffering from airway pathology poses unique challenges. The presence of a bilateral vocal cord granuloma adds further complexity to anesthetic management as it can potentially cause a compromised airway and respiratory distress. This case presents a pregnant patient with a bilateral vocal cord granuloma who underwent anesthesia using high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygenation and oxygen reserve index (ORi) monitoring. A 33-year-old pregnant woman, who underwent intubation six months ago, experienced hoarseness and was ultimately diagnosed with a bilateral granuloma. Due to the significant airway obstruction, neither intubation nor ventilation was feasible, thereby requiring a surgical intervention. Before the surgical removal, the patient’s oxygenation was ensured using HFNC oxygenation. After confirming the sufficient oxygenation of the patient with an ORi of 0.38, the operation commenced, and as it lasted approximately 3 min, the patient was able to tolerate the brief period without additional oxygen supply. Post-surgical excision, mask bagging, and HFNC oxygenation was resumed, driving the ORi to 0.39; then, the operation was resumed. Throughout the procedure, the SpO2 remained above 98. The combination of HFNC and ORi ensured adequate oxygenation and allowed for the early detection of hypoxemia during the procedure. This approach may be a good option for managing granulomas.
Re-Thinking Knowledge in Community-Supported Agriculture to Achieve Transformational Change towards Sustainability
Authors: Meyer Julius Max , Hassler Markus
Published: September 2023

Community-supported agriculture has gained a significant amount of prominence in recent years by offering a more sustainable and morally acceptable alternative to conventional food systems. Their organization offers a modern take on how to manage production by supporting the usage and exchange of knowledge between all stakeholders involved. The leverage points concept argues that re-thinking how knowledge is produced and used in systems is one of the key realms of leverage in which transformation towards sustainability can be achieved. Current sustainability research lacks a focus on deep leverage points that bear great potential for transformational change. This concept, however, revolves around these deep realms of leverage and has not been applied to CSA yet. Thus, a qualitative study with semi-structured interviews has been performed at 22 CSA farms in Germany in order to gather detailed insights on the production and flow of knowledge and analyze if and to what degree these CSAs have the potential to leverage transformational change towards sustainability. This analysis helps to understand how certain mechanisms can influence sustainability in a positive manner and promote the usage of these mechanisms in the agricultural landscape. Ultimately, the data indicates that CSAs do bear great potential to leverage sustainability transformation in regard to re-thinking agriculture. Characteristics that lead to this cognition are a highly cooperative, participatory and transparent structure, characteristics that allow for the creation and exchange of information to flourish.
Recent Advances in Organic Fouling Control and Mitigation Strategies in Membrane Separation Processes: A Review
Authors: Sisay Elias Jigar , Al-Tayawi Aws N. , László Zsuzsanna , Kertész Szabolcs
Published: September 2023

Membrane separation processes have become increasingly popular in many industries because of their ability to treat wastewater and purify water. However, one of the main problems related to the processes is organic fouling, which can significantly reduce their efficiency and cause membrane damage. This review provides a summary of the various forms of organic fouling that can occur in membrane separation methods and examines the factors that lead to their development. The article evaluates the progress made in different techniques designed to manage and reduce organic fouling, such as physical cleaning methods, chemical cleaning agents, and modifications to the membrane surface, including ultrasonic and membrane vibration methods. The review also highlights recent advances in emerging 3D printing technology to mitigate membrane fouling. Finally, the review provides a brief summary of the conclusions and future directions for research in the field of organic fouling control and mitigation in membrane separation processes.
Employees’ Perceptions of Corporate Social Responsibility and Their Extra-Role Behaviors: A Psychological Mechanism
Authors: Ko Sung-Hoon , Choi Yongjun , Kim Jongsung , Kang Hyun Chul
Published: September 2023

This study examines the mechanisms through which employees’ perceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) facilitate their performances of extra-role behaviors (i.e., organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs) and creative behaviors). Because we intended to explore employees’ extra-role behaviors in workplaces, we used the survey method and collected the data from 505 employees working in IT companies in South Korea. To test our hypotheses, we conducted a path analysis and a bootstrapping method using SPSS 27.0 and the PROCESS macro. Our results show that CSR perceptions are positively related to both OCBs and creative behaviors. In addition, compassion and positive psychological capital mediate positive relationships. By demonstrating the mechanism through which employees’ CSR perceptions lead to their two forms of extra-role behaviors at work via compassion and positive psychological capital, our results provide a more comprehensive view of their effects at work. Furthermore, in addition to the instrumental benefits of CSR activities, such as their positive effects on corporate performance, our results suggest that engaging in CSR activities is vital for organizations seeking corporate sustainability.
ESG Strategy and Financial Aspects Using the Example of an Oil and Gas Midstream Company: The UNIMOT Group
Authors: Szczepańczyk Marta , Nowodziński Paweł , Sikorski Adam
Published: September 2023

The content of this article relates to the widely considered issue of ESG investing, which has both theoretical and practical dimensions. The objective of this article is to verify whether there is a correlation between the implementation of ESG strategies and financial data and indicators. The first part of the discussion highlights the essence of a socially responsible investment—a concept that postulates the consideration of social responsibility in the functioning of companies. At a further stage, an attempt is made to systematize the concepts of ESG investing, where three key aspects are highlighted, i.e., environmental, social, and corporate governance. The article also refers to the reporting non-financial data, which are indicated by SASB standards. An empirical study is conducted on the UNIMOT Group. In this respect, the adjustment of ESG strategy directions with disclosure topics defined within the oil and gas midstream sector is analyzed. Then, using the GRETL econometric package, the relationship between the selected financial data is verified for the periods analyzed, with particular emphasis on the year of implementation of the ESG strategy, i.e., 2021. The conclusions and directions for further research are presented in the final section of the article.
Exploring a Novel Reservoir Impoundment Operation Framework for Facilitating Hydropower Sustainability
Authors: Ning Zhihao , Zhou Yanlai , Lin Fanqi , Zhou Ying , Luo Qi
Published: September 2023

Reservoir impoundment operation has far-reaching effects on the synergies of hydropower output, floodwater utilization, and carbon fluxes, but flood risk is significantly increasing, which is especially true when shifting to earlier impoundment timings and lifting reservoir water levels. This study proposed a novel reservoir impoundment operation framework driven by flood prevention, hydropower production, floodwater utilization, and carbon emission management. The Three Gorges Reservoir in the Yangtze River was selected as a case study. The results demonstrated that flood prevention safety could be guaranteed with the initial impoundment timings on and after the first of September. The best scheme of reservoir impoundment operation could efficiently boost synergistic benefits by enhancing 2.98 billion kW·h (8.8%) hydropower output and 6.4% water impoundment rate and decreasing greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes and carbon budget by 28.15 GgCO2e/yr (4.6%) and 0.44 (23.1%), respectively, compared with the standard operation policy. This study can not only provide scientific and technical support for reservoir impoundment operations, benefiting water–carbon synergies, but can also suggest policymakers with various favorable advancing impoundment timing and lifting reservoir water level schemes to experience related risks and benefits in the interest of hydropower sustainability.
Blockchain Technology and Related Security Risks: Towards a Seven-Layer Perspective and Taxonomy
Authors: Mollajafari Sepideh , Bechkoum Kamal
Published: September 2023

Blockchain technology can be a useful tool to address issues related to sustainability. From its initial foundation based on cryptocurrency to the development of smart contracts, blockchain technology promises significant business benefits for various industry sectors, including the potential to offer more trustworthy modes of governance, reducing the risks for environmental and economic crises. Notwithstanding its known benefits, and despite having some protective measures and security features, this emerging technology still faces significant security challenges within its different abstract layers. This paper classifies the critical cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities inherent in smart contracts based on an in-depth literature review and analysis. From the perspective of architectural layering, each layer of the blockchain has its own corresponding security issues. In order to have a detailed look at the source of security vulnerabilities within the blockchain, a seven-layer architecture is used, whereby the various components of each layer are set out, highlighting the related security risks and corresponding countermeasures. This is followed by a taxonomy that establishes the inter-relationships between the vulnerabilities and attacks in a smart contract. A specific emphasis is placed on the issues caused by centralisation within smart contracts, whereby a “one-owner” controls access, thus threatening the very decentralised nature that blockchain is based upon. This work offers two main contributions: firstly, a general taxonomy that compiles the different vulnerabilities, types of attacks, and related countermeasures within each of the seven layers of the blockchain; secondly, a specific focus on one layer of the blockchain namely, the contract layer. A model application is developed that depicts, in more detail, the security risks within the contract layer, while enlisting the best practices and tools to use to mitigate against these risks. The findings point to future research on developing countermeasures to alleviate the security risks and vulnerabilities inherent to one-owner control in smart contracts.
Analysis of Rare Earth Elements in Pteridophytes from the Historical Mining Area, Southwestern Japan
Authors: Mardiyah Ainun , Syahputra Muhammad Rio , Tsuboi Motohiro
Published: September 2023

Recent studies have shown that various fern species can accumulate REEs in the soil and may be utilized as indicator plants. Athyrium yokoscense, commonly called hebino negoza in Japan, is a pteridophyte that is used as an indicator of metal-contaminated soils in Japan. Mining and mineral processing increase the potential of mine minerals to oxidize and change their chemical form. A study on the biogeochemical behavior of REEs in the mine area needs to be conducted due to the significant use of REEs as an essential material for various applications in the world. The REE content in sediment and pteridophytes under different mining areas was analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The concentration of REEs contained in Athyrium yokoscense was analyzed and then compared to sediment to determine the ability of the plant to absorb and accumulate rare earth elements in the mine area. Sediment and plant samples were collected from three mining areas: Ikuno mine, Akenobe mine, and Tada mine. Athyrium yokoscense plants were collected and digested with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and nitric acid (HNO3) at a ratio of 2:5. Sediment samples were taken and digested by the alkali fusion method using lithium tetraborate and then processed using the conventional column method. The present study determined that the concentration of REEs varies in every location, and light REEs tend to be more abundant in sediments than heavy REEs. The amount that can be transferred to ferns also varies. Athyrium yokoscense in the ex-mining area accumulates proportionately more LREEs than HREEs, specifically in the Athyrium yokoscense leaves. The characteristic of the element significantly contributes to the accumulation of REEs in pteridophytes.
Interactive Cognitive Motor Training: A Promising Approach for Sustainable Improvement of Balance in Older Adults
Authors: Zhang Longhai , Guo Jiawei , Zhang Jing , Zhang Ling , Li Yanbing , Yang Shutong , Zhu Wenfei , Guo Fei
Published: September 2023

Physical exercise has been shown to improve balance, gait, and cognitive function in older adults. Interactive cognitive-motor training (ICMT) combines physical exercise and cognitive stimulation, but few studies have focused on the effect of ICMT on static and dynamic balance in older adults. This study aims to improve the balance of older adults to reduce fall-related injuries for sustainable development goals. We randomly assigned 38 older adults to either the ICMT group (n = 22) or the control group (n = 16). The ICMT group participated in 60-min exercise sessions three times a week for 12 weeks, while the control group maintained their regular activities. The static and dynamic balances were assessed before and after the intervention. The results indicated the ICMT group demonstrated significant improvements in static balance, specifically in swing path and velocity (V) in the medial-lateral (M-L) direction with eyes open (p < 0.05). With eyes closed, the ICMT group showed significant improvements in total swing path and area compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In dynamic balance, there was a significant difference in the lateral (L) angle limit of stability (LOS) between the ICMT group and the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, ICMT effectively enhances static balance and maintains dynamic balance in older adults.
Life Cycle Assessment Research Trends and Implications: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Moutik Badr , Summerscales John , Graham-Jones Jasper , Pemberton Richard
Published: September 2023

Acknowledging the importance of sustainability and implementing measures to achieve the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 represent a holistic approach to promoting peace and prosperity for the planet and its inhabitants. LCA is a valuable tool for organisations to enhance sustainability and reduce environmental impact. There has been a notable increase in LCA research subjects, indicating a recognition of its significance in promoting sustainability. The field has experienced a significant expansion in the past decade, with a 30% annual percent growth rate in LCA publications since 2010. In the most recent 4 years alone, 47% of all LCA publications since 1991 were produced. This paper presents a comprehensive review of LCA research from 1991 to 2022, with a specific focus on the period from 2019 to 2022. The study identifies research avenues and trends in LCA research using diverse bibliometric analysis techniques alongside content examination and the SciVal topic clusters prominence indicator. This comprehensive approach reveals evolving trends, such as an increased emphasis on practical applications for global sustainability goals, LCA’s expansion into bio-based materials due to plastic pollution concerns, and quantification of circular economy benefits in solid waste management. Moreover, deeper exploration of energy-related sustainability aspects and the integration of LCA into early product development for eco-conscious design are observed. These trends signify widespread LCA adoption across industries to address energy and design-related sustainability challenges. The study acknowledges interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, industry, and governments, shaping a robust LCA research landscape. China’s heightened contributions as a leading contributor to the field have reshaped the global LCA landscape mirrored in the evolving prominence of journals, institutes, and funding organisations.
Does Digital Transformation Contribute to Corporate Carbon Emissions Reduction? Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Gao Jun , Xu Ning , Zhou Ju
Published: September 2023

The digital transformation of enterprises is a significant catalyst for achieving cleaner production and directly affects a company’s carbon performance. This research elucidates the theoretical logic and potential impact mechanisms of digital transformation in reducing corporate carbon emissions. Second, using a panel data set of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2007 to 2020, this study quantitatively investigates the effect of corporate digital transformation on the carbon emissions intensity of businesses. The empirical results indicate that corporate digital transformation has a statistically significant negative effect on the carbon emissions intensity of Chinese firms. Several robustness tests have validated this conclusion. The heterogeneity analysis reveals that state-owned businesses, firms with high carbon intensity, and those with strong financing capacity would benefit more from digital transformation in achieving the goal of reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, the impact of digital transformation on corporate carbon emission abatement is more prominent in industries with limited technological input and high energy consumption. At the regional level, digital transformation has a more significant impact on reducing carbon emissions in cities with stringent environmental regulation, advanced marketization, and resource-based economies. The transmission mechanism analysis confirms that improving corporate energy use efficiency, enhancing financial performance, and fostering green innovation are crucial transmission mechanisms through which digital transformation can help enterprises decrease their carbon emissions. These findings assist companies in comprehending the role of digital transformation in lowering carbon emissions and provide them with valuable insights.
The Impact of a Sustainable Economic Development Focus on the Real Exchange Rate in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alabdulwahab Sami
Published: September 2023

Saudi Arabia has launched its vision for the next decade, which is branded Vision 2030. Sustainable economic development is the core of the Saudi Vision 2030, which has seventeen sustainability programs covering a wide range of Saudi economic sectors. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the sustainable economic development focus on the real exchange rate in Saudi Arabia. The ARDL cointegration method was used to assess the existence of the long-run relationships among the variables. The Sustainable Development Index (SDI) was used as a measure of sustainable economic development. Sustainable economic development was found to have a negative impact on the real exchange rate in terms of both the long- and short-run dynamics. Moreover, the GDP was found to have a positive impact on the real exchange rate in the long run and to have the highest coefficient of the model. However, the money supply was found to have no impact on the real exchange rate, while oil rent was found to have a negative impact on the real exchange rate in terms of both the long-run and the first-moment short-run dynamics. Government expenditure was found to be insignificant in the long run and to have a positive significant impact on the real exchange rate in the short-run dynamics. Furthermore, the sustainability impact on the real exchange rate in Saudi Arabia has not been discussed due to the economic structure that relies on oil and the change toward a sustainable economy that occurred in the recent decade. The results provide insight into the potential future challenges faced by the Saudi economy as sustainability programs progress in Saudi Arabia.
Enhancing Sustainable Urban Energy Management through Short-Term Wind Power Forecasting Using LSTM Neural Network
Authors: Kanagarathinam Karthick , Aruna S. K. , Ravivarman S. , Safran Mejdl , Alfarhood Sultan , Alrajhi Waleed
Published: September 2023

Integrating wind energy forecasting into urban city energy management systems offers significant potential for optimizing energy usage, reducing the carbon footprint, and improving overall energy efficiency. This article focuses on developing a wind power forecasting model using cutting-edge technologies to enhance urban city energy management systems. To effectively manage wind energy availability, a strategy is proposed to curtail energy consumption during periods of low wind energy availability and boost consumption during periods of high wind energy availability. For this purpose, an LSTM-based model is employed to forecast short-term wind power, leveraging a publicly available dataset. The LSTM model is trained with 27,310 instances and 10 wind energy system attributes, which were selected using the Pearson correlation feature selection method to identify crucial features. The evaluation of the LSTM-based forecasting model yields an impressive R2 score of 0.9107. The model’s performance metrics attest to its high accuracy, explaining a substantial proportion of the variance in the test data. This study not only contributes to advancing wind power forecasting, but also holds promise for sustainable urban energy management, enabling cities to make informed decisions in optimizing energy consumption and promoting a greener, more resilient future.
Bioaccumulation and Translocation of Heavy Metals in Paddy (Oryza sativa L.) and Soil in Different Land Use Practices
Authors: Aziz Roslaili Abdul , Yiwen Mok , Saleh Mawaddah , Salleh Mohd Nazry , Gopinath Subash C. B. , Giap Sunny Goh Eng , Chinni Suresh V. , Gobinath Ramachawolran
Published: September 2023

Rice tends to accumulate heavy metals present in soil that have been introduced by human activities and pass them up the food chain. The present study aimed to evaluate the accumulation of selected trace elements (Cu, Zn, and Pb) in paddy and soil and the transfer of these metals from soil to rice by analysing the bioconcentration factor (BCF), bioaccumulation factor (BAF), and translocation factor (TF) of heavy metals in paddy (Oryza sativa L.) and soil. Samples of matured paddy and the substrates were collected from three different areas located near a rural point (RP), a transportation point (TP), and an industrial point (IP). Heavy metal concentrations present in the soil and various parts of the plants were ascertained using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Cu, Zn, and Pb accumulation in the soil were detected in increasing orders of RP > TP > IP, IP > TP > RP, and IP > RP > TP, respectively. The BCFshoot, BAF, and transfer factor of both Zn and Pb from soil to rice were detected in the order of TP > IP > RP, which was different from Cu, where BCFshoot and TF showed the order of RP > IP > TP but the BAF indicated IP > RP > TP. TF > 1 was discovered for Zn and Pb at the TP, and for Cu at the RP, which could be attributed to the TP’s strongly acidic soil and Cu’s abundance in the RP’s soil. Paddy height and yield traits were the most significant at the IP site, showing the highest number of fertile spikelets, the average weight of a 1000-paddy spikelet, and the harvest index (0.56). These findings can be related to the normal range of Zn and Pb found in rice plants that support growth. Thus, the findings of this study demonstrated that soil properties and metal abundance in soil from certain land use practices can partially influence the mobility and transfer of metals through soil–plant pathways.
An Investigation of Real-Time Active Noise Control for 10 kV Substation Noise Suppression
Authors: Yu Jinshan , Zheng Zhongyuan , Li Yamin , Wang Haohui , Hao Ying , Liang Xiaoxia , Gao Jianzheng
Published: September 2023

Substation noise is a crucial factor that influences residents’ quality of life, especially in the densely residential areas. Despite small- and medium-sized transformer facilities having relatively low noise levels, due to their proximity to residential areas, they generate considerable annoyance, rendering them a focal point among environmental noise complaints. The predominant noise emitted by these facilities falls within the medium- and low-frequency spectrum range, and the conventional passive noise reduction techniques exhibit limited efficacy in attenuating such low-frequency noise. This study develops a real-time active noise control (ANC) system based on a digital signal processor, TMS320F28335, and various ANC methods, including Filtered-X Least Mean Squares (FxLMS), Normalized Filter-X Least Mean Squares (FxNLMS), and variable step-size FxLMS (VS-FxLMS), are evaluated for the low-frequency noise reduction. In addition, the substation noises at a residential community are measured, analyzed, and used as noise source together with a series of sinusoidal waves for evaluation of the ANC algorithms. Results show the ANC system are effective in attenuating most low-frequency noises (within 600 Hz) and the average noise reduction for the substation noises has achieved by more than 12 dB.
Social Entrepreneurship: A Bibliometric Analysis of Its Fields of Study
Authors: Coronel-Pangol Katherine , Heras Doménica , Aguirre Quezada Juan , Mora Pedro , Durán Andrade Karina
Published: September 2023

Social Entrepreneurship, one of the branches of Entrepreneurship, has acquired important relevance because it has both social and financial purposes and has become a necessary mechanism to combat social exclusion, revitalize disadvantaged areas, provide employment opportunities, and address social problems neglected by the public and private sectors. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the subject among academics and entrepreneurs, but there is still research that lacks an adequate conceptualization. Therefore, this article aims to identify the main lines of research on social entrepreneurship through a bibliometric analysis. To carry out the analysis, a study of both publication performance and word co-occurrence of 3023 articles extracted from Web of Science during the period 1993–2022 was performed using the SCIMAT v1.1.04 software for data processing. It was found that the year 2022 was the year with the highest scientific production, and a strong relationship was established between social entrepreneurship and gender and economic development issues. As a result of the analysis, possible lines of future research are proposed, and these can contribute to fill the existing knowledge gaps on social entrepreneurship and promote a better understanding of the topic.
A Comprehensive Assessment of Buildings for Post-Disaster Sustainable Reconstruction: A Case Study of Beirut Port
Authors: El Hage Josiana , Shahrour Isam , Hage Chehade Fadi , Abi Farraj Faten
Published: September 2023

Natural and man-made disasters constitute a considerable threat to humans, especially when intertwined with complex geopolitical situations. Effective decision-making and management during post-disaster reconstruction projects should be based on an effective assessment of damages caused by disasters by considering social, economic, and environmental factors. An analysis of prior research on post-disaster assessment reveals a predominant focus on physical indicators. However, recognizing the crucial role of socio-economic factors in the post-disaster reconstruction process, this paper introduces a comprehensive methodology for evaluating disaster-related damages by considering both physical and socio-economic factors. The proposed method is initiated by identifying relevant physical and socio-economic indicators. These indicators are then synthesized based on the local context and experts’ opinions to derive the Physical Priority Index (PPI) and Socio-Economic Priority Index (SEPI). These indices subsequently guide the prioritization of reconstruction efforts, aligning with the decision-makers’ strategic vision. This method was employed to assess damages stemming from the Beirut port disaster, utilizing three physical indicators and nine socio-economic indicators. The examination of the PPI and SEPI of a major area of Beirut port did not unveil a straightforward correlation between these two indices. The low correlation between these indices increases the complexity of decision-making. However, given the profound socio-economic challenges in Lebanon, this paper recommends placing a higher emphasis on SEPI in the decision-making process. Nevertheless, stakeholders retain the flexibility to tailor their approach by combining PPI and SEPI indicators according to their policies. This adaptive approach ensures a nuanced and contextually relevant decision-making framework.
Best Practices to Support the Transition towards Sustainable Logistics from the Perspective of Brazilian Carriers
Authors: Assis Tassia Faria de , Marujo Lino Guimarães , de Abreu Victor Hugo Souza , da Costa Mariane Gonzalez , Rodrigues Leonardo Mangia , D’Agosto Márcio de Almeida
Published: September 2023

Given the shifts in consumer demands, the business environment, and the various economic, competitive, and environmental challenges faced by transportation companies, sustainable logistics is gaining increasing recognition as a crucial aspect for consideration. With these factors in mind, this paper seeks to outline the optimal approaches embraced by transportation companies in Brazil, evaluate the extent to which these practices have been implemented, and propose a method for assisting the adoption of a course of implementation action that supports decision makers in the effort to choose the best practices aligned with the degree of maturity of sustainable practices adopted by the assessed companies. The outcomes of this study present a valuable blueprint for transporters, especially those in the initial phases of incorporating sustainable logistics practices, as they endeavor to conform to industry norms and enhance their overall sustainability.
Effects of the Ingredients on Maturity and Humification during Kitchen Waste Composting as Illustrated by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Feng Yao , Li Zhaojun , Liu Chenfeng , Yan Tiezhu , Shi Huading , Yang Rongjin
Published: September 2023

Kitchen waste (KW) production has risen considerably due to the increasing affluence of populations and a booming catering sector. If not properly disposed, KW can bring serious issues for the environment. Composting is widely used as an efficient method for the resource utilization of KW. In the present paper, the effects of different ratios of ingredients (corn straw: garden waste = 4:1, based on the dry mass) on maturity and humification during KW composting were investigated. The results showed that the nitrogen retention capacity of the treatments with a ratio of ingredients to KW of 1:2.5 and 1:5.0 was higher than that of other treatments. Additionally, it was found that the number of ingredients had an effect on the germination index (GI) during composting, and the final GI values of the four treatments were in the following order: 1:7.5 > 1:5.0 > 1:10.0 > 1:2.5. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) showed that the organic matter (OM) content of each treatment increased after composting, and the maturity of the 1:2.5 and 1:5.0 treatments was higher than the other two treatments. Redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that the maturity and humification were correlated with moisture content, pH and NO3−-N during composting. This study concludes that the treatment with an ingredients to KW ratio of 1:5.0 was much more useful for KW composting, which is of importance to guide the disposal of KW.
Exploring Roughness in Left Almost Semigroups and Its Connections to Fuzzy Lie Algebras
Authors: Assiry Abdullah , Baklouti Amir
Published: September 2023

This paper explores the concept of Generalized Roughness in LA-Semigroups and its applications in various mathematical disciplines. We highlight the fundamental properties and structures of Generalized Roughness, examining its relationships with Fuzzy Lie Algebras, Order Theory, Lattice Structures, Algebraic Structures, and Categorical Perspectives. Moreover, we investigate the potential of mathematical modeling, optimization techniques, data analysis, and machine learning in the context of Generalized Roughness. Our findings reveal important results in Generalized Roughness, such as the preservation of roughness under the fuzzy equivalence relation and the composition of roughness sets. We demonstrate the significance of Generalized Roughness in the context of order theory and lattice structures, presenting key propositions and a theorem that elucidate its properties and relationships. Furthermore, we explore the applications of Generalized Roughness in mathematical modeling and optimization, highlighting the optimization of roughness measures, parameter estimation, and decision-making processes related to LA-Semigroup operations. We showcase how mathematical techniques can enhance understanding and utilization of LA-Semigroups in practical scenarios. Lastly, we delve into the role of data analysis and machine learning in uncovering patterns, relationships, and predictive models in Generalized Roughness. By leveraging these techniques, we provide examples and insights into how data analysis and machine learning can contribute to enhancing our understanding of LA-Semigroup behavior and supporting decision-making processes.
Presence, Co-Occurrence, and Daily Intake Estimates of Aflatoxins and Fumonisins in Maize Consumed in Food-Insecure Regions of Western Honduras
Authors: Sabillón Luis , Alvarado Jackeline , Leiva Alejandra , Mendoza Rodrigo , Espinal Raúl , Leslie John F. , Bianchini Andréia
Published: September 2023

Foodborne mycotoxins are a significant food safety risk in developing countries. Our objective was to determine the occurrence of and exposure levels to aflatoxins (AFs) and fumonisins (FBs) in maize intended for human and animal consumption in food-insecure regions of western Honduras. Total AFs and FBs were quantified with a monoclonal antibody-based affinity spectrofluorimetric method. FBs were detected in 614/631 samples of maize destined for human consumption at 0.3 to 41 mg/kg (mean, 2.7 mg/kg). Of the 614 positive samples, 147 had FB levels exceeding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory threshold of 4.0 mg/kg. AFs were detected in 109/631 samples of maize for human consumption with concentrations between 1.0 and 490 µg/kg (mean, 10 µg/kg). AF levels in 34 samples exceeded the FDA regulatory limit (i.e., 20 µg/kg). The average probable daily intake of AFs in western Honduras ranged from 0 to 260 ng/kg body weight/day, and for FBs, the average probable daily intake ranged from 17 to 53 μg/kg body weight/day. AFs and FBs co-occurred in 106/631 samples with 60 samples containing both toxins at levels greater than the FDA regulatory levels. Samples of maize intended for animal feed had significantly higher AF (mean, 22 µg/kg) and FB (mean, 7.6 mg/kg) contamination levels than those observed in samples destined for human consumption. Thus, the maize supply chain in western Honduras is contaminated with mycotoxins at levels that pose health risks to both humans and livestock. More effective mycotoxin surveillance and implementation of effective mitigation strategies are needed to reduce mycotoxin contamination and exposure.
PnPP-15, a Synthetic Peptide Derived from a Toxin from Phoneutria nigriventer Spider Venom, Alleviates Diabetic Neuropathic Pain and Acts Synergistically with Pregabalin in Mice
Authors: Mariano Xavier Maia , de Assis Ferreira Luana Caroline , Almeida-Leite Camila Megale , de Castro Junior Célio José , de Lima Maria Elena
Published: September 2023

Diabetic neuropathic pain is one of the complications that affect a wide variety of the diabetic population and is often difficult to treat. Only a small number of patients experience pain relief, which usually comes with onerous side effects and low levels of satisfaction. The search for new analgesic drugs is necessary, given the limitations that current drugs present. Combining drugs to treat neuropathic pain has been attracting interest to improve their efficacy compared to single-drug monotherapies while also reducing dose sizes to minimize side effects. The aim of our study was to verify the antinociceptive effect of a synthetic peptide, PnPP-15, alone and combined with pregabalin, in male Swiss diabetic mice using the von Frey method. PnPP-15 is a synthetic peptide derived from PnPP19, a peptide representing a discontinuous epitope of the primary structure of the toxin PnTx2-6 from the venom of the spider Phoneutria nigriventer. The antinociceptive activity of both compounds was dose-dependent and showed synergism, which was verified by isobolographic analysis. Treatment with PnPP-15 did not cause spontaneous or forced motor changes and did not cause any damage or signs of toxicity in the analyzed organs (pancreas, lung, heart, kidney, brain, or liver). In conclusion, PnPP-15 is a great candidate for an analgesic drug against neuropathic pain caused by diabetes and exerts a synergistic effect when combined with pregabalin, allowing for even more efficient treatment.
Distribution and Abundance of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in Benin, West Africa
Authors: Padonou Germain Gil , Konkon Alphonse Keller , Salako Albert Sourou , Zoungbédji David Mahouton , Ossè Razaki , Sovi Arthur , Azondekon Roseric , Sidick Aboubakar , Ahouandjinou Juvénal Minassou , Adoha Constantin Jesukèdè , Sominahouin André Aimé , Tokponnon Filémon Tatchémè , Akinro Bruno , Sina Haziz , Baba-Moussa Lamine , Akogbéto Martin Codjo
Published: September 2023

Updated information on the distribution and abundance of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus is crucial to prepare African countries, such as Benin, for possible arboviral disease outbreaks. This study aims to evaluate the geographical distribution, abundance and biting behaviour of these two vectors in Benin. Three sampling techniques were used in this study. The collection of Aedes spp. adults were made through human landing catch (HLC), immatures were captured with the use of ovitraps, and a dipping technique was used for the collection of Aedes spp. in 23 communes located along the North–South and East–West transect of Benin. Adult Aedes mosquitoes were collected indoors and outdoors using HLC. Mosquito eggs, larvae and pupae were collected from containers and ovitraps. The adult mosquitoes were morphologically identified, then confirmed using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Overall, 12,424 adult specimens of Aedes spp. were collected, out of which 76.53% (n = 9508) and 19.32% (n = 2400) were morphologically identified as Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus, respectively. Geographically, Ae. aegypti was found across the North–South transect unlike Ae. albopictus, which was only encountered in the southern part of the country, with a great preponderance in Avrankou. Furthermore, an exophagic behaviour was observed in both vectors. This updated distribution of Aedes mosquito species in Benin will help to accurately identify areas that are at risk of arboviral diseases and better plan for future vector control interventions.
Impact of Vegetation Differences on Shallow Landslides: A Case Study in Aso, Japan
Authors: Asada Hiroki , Minagawa Tomoko
Published: September 2023

Climate change has increased the frequency and scale of heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of shallow landslides due to heavy rainfall. In recent years, ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR) has attracted attention as one way to reduce disaster risks. Vegetation is known to increase soil strength through its root system and reduce the risk of shallow landslides. To reduce the risk of shallow landslides using vegetation, it is necessary to quantitatively evaluate the effects that vegetation has on shallow landslides. In this study, we constructed a generalized linear model (GLM) and random forest (RF) model to quantitatively evaluate the impact of differences in the vegetation, such as grasslands and forests, on the occurrence of shallow landslides using statistical methods. The model that resulted in the lowest AIC in the GLM included elevation, slope angle, slope aspect, undulation, TWI, geology, and vegetation as primary factors, and the hourly rainfall as a trigger factor. The slope angle, undulation, and hourly rainfall were selected as significant explanatory variables that contribute positively to shallow landslides. On the other hand, elevation and TWI were selected as significant explanatory variables that contribute negatively to shallow landslides. Significant differences were observed among multiple categories of vegetation. The probability of shallow landslide in secondary grasslands was approximately three times that of coniferous and broadleaf forests, and approximately nine times that of broadleaf secondary forests. The landslide probability of shrubs was approximately four times that of coniferous and broadleaf forests, and approximately ten times that of broadleaf secondary forests. The results of constructing the RF model showed that the importance was highest for the hourly rainfall, followed by geology, then elevation. AUC values for the GLM and RF model were 0.91 and 0.95, respectively, indicating that highly accurate models were constructed. We quantitatively showed the impact of differences in vegetation on shallow landslides. The knowledge obtained in this study will be essential for considering appropriate vegetation management to reduce the risk of future shallow landslides.
Lane Change Trajectory Planning Based on Quadratic Programming in Rainy Weather
Authors: Deng Chengzhi , Qian Yubin , Dong Honglei , Xu Jiejie , Wang Wanqiu
Published: September 2023

To enhance the safety and stability of lane change maneuvers for autonomous vehicles in adverse weather conditions, this paper proposes a quadratic programming−based trajectory planning algorithm for lane changing in rainy weather. Initially, in order to mitigate the risk of potential collisions on wet and slippery road surfaces, we incorporate the concept of road adhesion coefficients and delayed reaction time to refine the establishment of the minimum safety distance. This augmentation establishes constraints on lane change safety distances and delineates the boundaries of viable lane change domains within inclement weather contexts. Subsequently, adopting a hierarchical trajectory planning framework, we incorporate visibility cost functions and safety distance constraints during dynamic programming sampling to ensure the safety of vehicle operation. Furthermore, the vehicle lane change sideslip phenomenon is considered, and the optimal lane change trajectory is obtained based on the quadratic programming algorithm by introducing the maneuverability objective function. In conclusion, to verify the effectiveness of the algorithm, lateral linear quadratic regulator (LQR) and longitudinal double proportional−integral−derivative (DPID) controllers are designed for trajectory tracking. The results demonstrate the algorithm’s capability to produce continuous, stable, and collision−free trajectories. Moreover, the lateral acceleration varies within the range of ±1.5 m/s2, the center of mass lateral deflection angle varies within the range of ±0.15°, and the yaw rate remains within the ±0.1°/s range.
Implementation of an integrated approach to management to improve the efficiency of the organization
Authors:   Lin Vector Group, Klenko A.V.
Published: September 2023

The article is devoted to the methodology and technology of working with the potential of the organization from the perspective of an integrated approach. The main components of the organization's potential, its types are revealed, the characteristics of the potential transformation funnel are given and the main steps for transforming potential into real effects are described. To work effectively with the potential, it is necessary to organize the continuous operation of this cycle — to move from the project logic of potential management to the process logic. This article can be useful to managers of different levels, owners, partners of the organization, as well as to all those who are interested in the problems of managing the potential of organizations.
Student startup as a form of youth entrepreneurship
Authors:   Faculty of Law, Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Russia, Moscow, Seydvalieva A.R.
Published: September 2023

In the modern world, entrepreneurial activity is gaining more and more popularity. Various categories of citizens are involved in it, but in particular, this area is very interesting among students who seek to open their own business and start making a profit. On this basis, not so long ago there was such an economic and social phenomenon as a student startup, which by its nature is a kind of starting point in the implementation of new business ideas of future entrepreneurs. A student startup provides an opportunity not only to unleash the creative potential of students at the intra-university level, but also provides a real chance to implement a particular project. Moreover, students involved in the process of forming their business through a student startup, creating some new product, contribute to the development of the economic and social sphere of the state, since a student startup includes not only educational goals, but also state ones, which are implemented through the implementation of students' business projects in various fields of economics. It is worth noting that the student startup has good financial support from the state, which is expressed in attracting investors and specialists in relevant fields, providing grants, crowdfunding, etc. In some universities, student startups are becoming a substitute for graduation papers, however, being a non-standard form of testing knowledge and applying the theory obtained in practice, this type of activity cannot yet replace existing graduation papers.; but this state of affairs does not prevent universities from creating various clubs and organizations aimed at developing the field of student startup. Thus, a student startup is an excellent opportunity to form analytical and entrepreneurial skills and abilities in the process of obtaining education and subsequently apply them in the implementation of practical activities.