Distinct Criteria Research Articles

Hydrothermal synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles at different pHs and its effect on discoloration of methylene blue: Evaluation of alternatives by TOPSIS method

In this study, hydrothermal synthesis was employed to produce Fe3O4 nanoparticles for the methylene blue removal from an aqueous medium. The production of magnetite nanoparticles involved the utilization of Fe2+ and Fe3+ salts, and their respective solutions were created at pH levels of 10, 11, and 12, subsequently subjected to autoclave treatment. The evaluation of pH-induced variations in nanoparticle characteristics was conducted through X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), vibrating-sample magnetometer (VSM), and Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analyses. pH levels within the synthetic medium yielded diminutive Fe3O4 nanoparticles characterized by augmented saturation magnetization, heightened zeta potential, and a narrower size distribution. Following nanoparticle synthesis under varied pH conditions, their efficacy in methylene blue (MB) adsorption was investigated. Notably, nanoparticles synthesized at pH 11 demonstrated the highest adsorption capacity, registering maximum MB adsorption capacities of 188.68 mg/g, while pH 10 and 12 counterparts exhibited capacities of 169.49 mg/g and 175.44 mg/g, respectively. The adsorption processes conformed to the Langmuir–Freundlich isotherm model, with the pseudo-second-order model offering superior fitting to elucidate MB adsorption kinetics, thereby indicating the involvement of chemical adsorption mechanisms. It was discerned that MB adsorption encompassed both physical and chemical mechanisms, encompassing electrostatic attraction between the negatively charged surface of the nanoparticles and the cationic dye, as well as electron exchange interactions between MB and the functional groups present on the adsorbent surface. Thermodynamically speaking, this adsorption process exhibited an exothermic nature, with a preference for ambient temperatures. Magnetic separation post-adsorption was conveniently executed, and all nanoparticles demonstrated potential for reuse for a minimum of five cycles. Moreover, the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method was employed to assess and select the most favorable alternative from the available options. Based on the evaluation of 27 distinct criteria, it was determined that Fe3O4 synthesized in an environment with pH 11 emerged as the optimal choice, aligning with the initial findings from the adsorption assessments.

ISTILAH MENGUASAI TERHADAP UMKM DALAM HUBUNGAN KEMITRAAN DENGAN BENTUK INTI-PLASMA

In the modern business landscape, large and small companies frequently form collaboration agreements with micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), creating mutual benefits. This study investigates the interpretation of 'ownership' and/or 'control' of MSMEs as business partners in partnerships, examining the application of criteria in two KPPU decisions (Number 21/KPPU-K/2019 and Number 03/KPPU-K/2021). Using normative and descriptive research methods with primary and secondary data, the study finds that 'ownership' implies an unequal condition resulting in a loss for one party, while 'control' involves decision-taking. The decisions reveal instances of domination by large businesses over MSMEs, each with distinct criteria for control and/or ownership. The study recommends KPPU to formulate guidelines clarifying the terms 'owning' and/or 'controlling' concerning medium/large businesses towards MSMEs.

Abstract 17833: Characterization of Central versus Peripheral Predominance of Exercise Limitation in Patients With Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction

Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a heterogenous disorder in which abnormalities in both cardiac output (CO) and peripheral oxygen extraction (CavO 2 ) contribute to impaired oxygen uptake (VO 2 ). We investigated the predominant limitation to VO 2 , according to distinct HFpEF criteria, by examining the CO vs. VO 2 relationship during incremental exercise. Methods: Participants underwent Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET) with invasive hemodynamic assessment and were diagnosed with HFpEF based on characteristic symptoms and NTproBNP ≥125pg/mL, Supine PCWP ≥15mmHg, PCWP/CO ≥2mmHg/L/min or Peak PCWP ≥25mmHg. Calculated direct Fick CO versus VO 2 slope and peak exercise data were stratified by the expected relationship of CO(L/min) = 5хVO 2 (L/min) +5. The Mann Whitney U Test and t-test characterized those limited by cardiac output (Slope <5L/min) vs. peripheral extraction (Slope >5L/min). Results: In 425 dyspneic individuals meeting biomarker and/or hemodynamic criteria for HFpEF, 36% had predominantly peripheral limitation (Measured Peak CO > Expected). Among those with NTpro-BNP ≥125pg/mL or resting PCWP ≥15mmHg, or both (N=220) , 31% were peripherally limited. 41% of those with a PCWP/CO ≥2mmHg/mL/min or Peak PCWP ≥25mmHg, or both (N=205) , were peripherally limited. Among all peripherally limited patients (N=151), the percentage of females, NTpro-BNP levels, Hb levels, rest and peak Ca-vO 2 , and rest and peak PVR were significantly lower compared to the cardiac limited group (Table, N=274), while resting PCWP, LVEF and HR were similar (Table). Conclusion: Despite meeting concurrent biomarker and/or hemodynamic criteria for HFpEF, peripheral-predominant limitation to exercise capacity is common which merits consideration when deploying interventions to augment exercise capacity in HFpEF.

Network Based Intrusion Detection System Using Weighted Product Model (WPM)

A security technology called a network-based intrusion detection system (NIDS) was created to safeguard computer networks against unauthorised access and criminal activity. This technology works by analysing network traffic, spotting potential risks, and informing administrators of any possible incursions or attacks. NIDS research ensures that intrusion detection systems are built to minimise the gathering and storage of sensitive data by taking into account the value of privacy and data protection .In general, network-based intrusion detection system research has a major impact on how well these security measures operate, how efficiently they perform, and how adaptable they are.By addressing the evolving challenges posed by cyber threats, NIDS research helps organizations enhance their network security posture, protect sensitive information, and defend against potential intrusions and attacks." The weighted product model (WPM), a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) technique, is used to evaluate and rank solutions based on a variety of distinct criteria. It provides a methodical approach to decision-making by considering the relative importance of each attribute and the performance of other solutions in relation to those criteria. The WPM normalises the data, weights the criteria, and gives a weighted score for each alternative. The option with the greatest score is regarded as the ideal option. The weighted product model offers a structured framework for making decisions by taking into account many factors and their varying degrees of importance. It enables decision-makers to assess and contrast options using a wide range of criteria, resulting in more informed and unbiased choices. It's crucial to check nonetheless that the model's weights and normalisation techniques appropriately capture the decision-maker's preferences as well as the features of the choice problem.J48, Random Forest, JRIP, RIDOR, PART. The definition of true positive, false positive, true negative and false negative rates has already been established. These metrics for measuring the effectiveness of classification algorithms, anomaly detection systems, and binary decision-making processes are accurately presented. As can be seen from the results, J48 received the highest rank, while PART received the lowest .In order to increase the security of computer networks, network-based intrusion detection systems (NIDS) are essential. They provide real-time monitoring and analysis of network traffic to identify suspected breaches and malicious activities, enabling appropriate action to be taken. However, it is important to recognize that NIDS can have limitations and are not infallible.

A Study on the Distinction Criteria between Contract for Work and Labor Dispatch －Focusing on the Japanese Legal Experience

A Study on the Distinction Criteria between Contract for Work and Labor Dispatch －Focusing on the Japanese Legal Experience

16 Longitudinal Cognitive Functioning in Gulf War veterans with and without Gulf War Illness: Data Mining from the BBRAIN Repository

Objective:Veterans from the 1991 Gulf War (GW) experienced several neurotoxicant exposures, including chemical weapons, pesticide sprays and creams, oil well fires and pyridostigmine bromide anti-nerve gas pills during the war. Research has shown these exposures to affect cognition and mood. Moreover, MR diffusion imaging has shown microstructural changes in the white matter that may be related to psychomotor slowing. Over a third of all GW veterans suffer from a chronic multi-symptom disorder called Gulf War Illness (GWI). The Kansas Criteria for GWI consists of six distinct criteria including symptoms of fatigue/sleep problems, pain symptoms, neurologic/cognitive/mood symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, respiratory symptoms, and skin symptoms. The Boston Gulf War Illness Consortium (GWIC) was a multi-site study designed to assess symptoms of GWI. After the conclusion of the GWIC study, the Boston Biorepository Recruitment and Integrative Network for Gulf War Illness (BBRAIN) was developed to harmonize retrospectively collected GW Veteran data while simultaneously collecting Time 2 data and samples from GW veterans who participated in the original study. This analysis includes the first 58 participants who have completed the GWIC study and the BBRAIN study.Participants and Methods:We conducted a longitudinal analysis of cognitive outcomes from the BBRAIN data repository. Verbal learning, memory, attention, and executive functioning were assessed using neuropsychological tests including the Continuous Performance Test (CPT3), Trail Making Test A, Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (DKEFS), California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II). A total of 58 participants were re-evaluated from the original GWIC cohort with a total of 47 cases and 11 controls. Paired t-tests for the cognitive measures were completed separately for GWI cases and healthy GW veteran controls for each of the neuropsychological test measures. Average time between assessments was four years.Results:The overall sample was on average 56 years old, 84% male and 75% White. The average level of education was 15 years. GWI cases showed significantly more commission errors and slower reaction times on the CPT3 at Time 2 compared to Time 1 (p < 0.05). Cases also showed a slowing in time to completion on Trails A at the second time point (p<0.05). On the other hand, controls only showed significantly slower reaction times on the CPT3 at Time 2 (p<0.05).Conclusions:These results showed that veterans with GWI are showing more decline over time in cognitive functioning particularly on psychomotor slowing and impulsivity than control veterans. It is important to document illness trajectories for veterans with GWI in order to devise strategies for interventions and treatments. The importance of studying longitudinal cohorts is to document changes in the same individuals over time. The next steps are to assess if this accelerated aging develops into neurodegenerative conditions by using brain imaging and other biomarkers in addition to cognitive evaluations. This could identify individuals who should be the focus of targeted treatment strategies while there is still time to intervene.

Comparative effectiveness of two intravenous immunoglobulin products in children with Kawasaki disease, a nationwide cohort study

Kawasaki Disease (KD) is the most common acquired pediatric heart disease in the developed world. Rapid infusion of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin is the standard therapy. Different manufacturing processes of IVIG may influence their efficacy. This study aims to conduct a head to head comparison of two IVIGs, TBSF and Privigen, from a nationwide perspective. The main data source was the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) of Taiwan. A total of 3368 KD cases involving children under 2 years of age were enrolled from January 2015 to November 2020. The primary endpoint was IVIG resistance, which we defined as the total amount exceeding 26 g in one admission. The secondary endpoints encompassed two distinct criteria: coronary involvement, which was defined as the prolonged use of aspirin or anti-coagulation agents between 180 and 360 days after the index date, and recurrence, which was defined as readmission for IVIG therapy occurring more than 30 days after previous KD index day and continuing until the end of the follow-up period. Privigen demonstrated a lower IVIG resistance rate at 9.4% in comparison to TBSF, which exhibited a rate of 9.7% (odds ratio 0.72, 95% CI 0.52–0.99). Privigen had a lower odds of coronary involvement (odds ratio 0.38, 95% CI 0.18–0.82). There is no difference in recurrence rate (odds ratio 0.60, 95% CI 0.22–1.68). Privigen might have a lower rate of IVIG resistance and reduced coronary artery involvement. The discrepancy may be due to the concentration, the stabilizers, or the source of plasma. Further investigation is needed to compare the effectiveness of different IVIGs in the large randomized controlled clinical trial.

The meaning of multicultural evaluation and meaningful evaluation: the importance of multifaceted responsive evaluation in higher education

ABSTRACT The interplay between evaluation, pedagogy, and curriculum has been researched extensively. But evaluation is often treated as an isolated component in academic settings, also neglecting multicultural aspects. Its purpose is to measure students’ achievements at the end of the course and function as distinctive criteria between high-achieving and low-achieving students. However, according to the constructivist approach, evaluation is embedded in the planning of curricula and pedagogical processes. Specifically, the content this article seeks to measure depends on the curriculum and the pedagogical processes. Not only is evaluation affected by these two components, but it also affects them. Therefore, all three components must be aligned and defined by the same goals and strengths. When these components are not aligned as is necessary, the educational process could be affected negatively. However, many variables are not considered nowadays, such as student gender, multiculturalism disabilities, and technological literacy. This article addresses this gap, discussing the implications of neglecting these variables.

Optimization of sports effect evaluation technology from random forest algorithm and elastic network algorithm.

This study leverages advanced data mining and machine learning techniques to delve deeper into the impact of sports activities on physical health and provide a scientific foundation for informed sports selection and health promotion. Guided by the Elastic Net algorithm, a sports performance assessment model is meticulously constructed. In contrast to the conventional Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (Lasso) algorithm, this model seeks to elucidate the factors influencing physical health indicators due to sports activities. Additionally, the incorporation of the Random Forest algorithm facilitates a comprehensive evaluation of sports performance across distinct dimensions: wrestling-type sports, soccer-type sports, skill-based sports, and school physical education. Employing the Top-K criterion for evaluation and juxtaposing it with the high-performance Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm, the accuracy is scrutinized under three distinct criteria: Top-3, Top-5, and Top-10. The pivotal innovation of this study resides in the amalgamation of the Elastic Net and Random Forest algorithms, permitting a holistic contemplation of the influencing factors of diverse sports activities on physical health indicators. Through this integrated methodology, the research achieves a more precise assessment of the effects of sports activities, unveiling a range of impacts various sports have on physical health. Consequently, a more refined assessment tool for sports performance detection and health development is established. Capitalizing on the Elastic Net algorithm, this research optimizes model construction during the pivotal feature selection phase, effectively capturing the crucial influencing factors associated with different sports activities. Concurrently, the integration of the Random Forest algorithm augments the predictive prowess of the model, enabling the sports performance assessment model to comprehensively unveil the extent of impact stemming from various sports activities. This study stands as a noteworthy contribution to the arena of sports performance assessment, offering substantial insights and advancements to both sports health and research methodologies.

The Spatial Analysis and Enhancement of Social Housing in Seoul

Seoul is the first city in South Korea to provide affordable social housing, beginning in 2015. Despite the importance of studying its space, configuration, and functionality, which impact the residents’ quality of life, research on social housing in Seoul is sparse. The purpose of this study is twofold: (1) to analyze the spatial layout and utilization of social housing and (2) to compare it to the layout and utilization of public rental housing provided by Seoul Housing & Communities Corporation (SH). A total of 120 units from 30 social housing projects open to the public in Seoul were selected. This study found that social housing in Seoul primarily consists of compact housing units targeting young adults and newlywed couples, with a high proportion of diverse spatial configurations. In South Korea, while the SH specialized floor plan is commonly used as a standardized prototype in contemporary apartments, the floor plans for social housing exhibit a broader range of shapes and spatial configurations. Distinct criteria are employed for space separation in designing social housing. Separating bedrooms or kitchens may be the priority depending on the specific housing unit, resulting in multiple layouts. The results suggest that ongoing research could contribute to exploring improved approaches for region-specific social housing design and enhancing residential environments.

Mechanisms of Interaction between Government and Business Structures in the Implementation of Regional Development Strategies

Object: The objective of this article is to analyze how authorities and business entities interact at the regional level. The focus is on understanding the various forms and mechanisms of this interaction. Furthermore, the goal is to create guidelines and actionable suggestions for enhancing this interaction within the context of modernizing local economies.Methods: The evaluation of the institutional environment for conducting business in different regions involves enhancing the methodology used to assess the collaboration between governmental bodies and business entities.Findings: The study also identifies and organizes the relationship between contemporary government and business interactions in terms of their forms and mechanisms. This involves a categorization process that takes into account factors including the efficiency and immediacy of their cooperation, their societal implications, the encompassed organizational frameworks, and the approaches employed to implement collaborative initiatives within the region. The research suggests that conflicts of interest arise between regional authorities and business entities within modernized regional economies. While government bodies endeavor to assign societal responsibilities to businesses and increase budget revenues, proactive business entities, on the other hand, advocate for limitations on their involvement with governmental services. Moreover, ensuring effective partnership requires pivotal measures such as substantial reduction of tax burdens and the removal of administrative hurdles that contravene the fundamental principles of mutual cooperation between the government and businesses.Conclusions: The scientific investigation has uncovered various factors that drive the emergence of social responsibility trends within business, often arising as an unintended form of behavior. Moreover, distinct criteria have been established to assess the execution of socially responsible initiatives undertaken by business entities. These criteria are categorized into two groups: one pertains to the evaluation of social responsibility actions through non-financial reporting, and the other encompasses criteria for assessing the effectiveness of the reporting itself.

A Geospatial Analysis Model for the Selection of Post-Mining Land Uses in Surface Lignite Mines: Application in the Ptolemais Mines, Greece

Among the procedures included in surface mines’ closure, the determination of post-mining land uses constitutes one of the early but primary steps. This research aims to develop an algorithm for the selection of the most suitable land use spatial distribution in the post-mining area of a surface lignite mine in northern Greece. Considering the already reclaimed areas and the local socioeconomic conditions, six distinct criteria that concern physical local characteristics were selected and, in turn, spatially combined with parameters affecting the mining area. Mining experts attributed weights to the criteria regarding their importance for the examined land uses. The six criteria concerned physical local characteristics (slope, elevation, and distance from villages, rivers, roads, and transmission lines), while the parameters affecting the mining area referred to the type of ground (undisturbed or graded areas), existing infrastructure, and mine closure planning, emphasizing the final landscape of the mining area. The investigated land uses encompassed agricultural, forest, industrial (including buildings, infrastructure, and photovoltaic parks), and recreational parks. Through the application of a fuzzification algorithm within a geographical information system (GIS) environment, four land use suitability maps were generated, which were subsequently overlaid to derive a comprehensive suitability map. The final suitability map was derived from the integration of the mining parameters as spatial information into the algorithm. The findings indicate that, even though the land use suitability analysis could be derived from a mathematical model, the integration of qualitative information related to the mining specifications is necessary to produce more reliable results. The proposed algorithm can be used as a useful tool by decision-makers in the mining industry to plan post-mining reclamation based on suitable criteria.

Factors influencing assessment in higher education: Empirical evidence from physical education and fitness compulsory courses in Indonesia

The present study delves into the multifarious factors that underpin students' learning assessment in higher education. Through the utilisation of an exploratory sequential mixed methods design, the researchers scrutinise the evaluation of 5,564 students by 23 lecturers, taking into consideration 9 characteristics. To that end, ANOVA and T-test are employed to analyse the mandatory course, and three lecturers who embody distinct criteria are interviewed, and their responses are subjected to a thematic analysis. The results indicate that assessment results are significantly different based on lecturers' working experience (teaching experience [F= 20.1, p= 0.000] and age [F= 48.6, p= 0.000]), academic background (department [F= 33.8, p= 0.000] and skills [F= 30.17, p= 0.000]), and teaching load (credit unit (credit unit) [F= 48.7, p= 0.000], number of classes taught [F= 61.4, p= 0.000] and teaching partners [F= 79.3, p=0.000]). Meanwhile, there is no difference in assessment results based on lecturers' qualifications (certificates [t= -0.587, p= 0.557] and latest degree [F= 2.56, p= 0.074]). The qualitative data reveals that four crucial factors - idealism, mindset, grading standard, and perspective - account for the variance observed in compulsory courses. The study's results underscore the need for universities to devise pedagogical strategies based on lecturers' attributes, as these factors bear a direct impact on the attainment of the desired graduate profiles as reflected in students' academic performance in specific courses.

Multiple criteria decision support analysis for manufacturing process parameters selection of metallic bipolar plates for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells

The multi-criteria decision-making method, along with experimental and finite-element (FE) methods, was employed to determine the optimal process parameter values for rubber pad forming of metallic bipolar plates. To achieve this aim, the rubber pad forming process was modeled by FE software, and the results were validated by conducting experimental tests. Three significant rubber pad forming parameters—punch force, hardness, and the thickness of the rubber layer—were considered as input variables. A full-factorial design involving 27 experiments was used to assess the alternatives. Filling percentage, thinning ratio, and stress were considered as distinct evaluation criteria. To solve the multi-criteria decision-making problem, a hybrid approach was used to weigh the alternatives. According to the results, the applied method was capable of selecting the optimal values of process parameters while considering different criteria simultaneously. The results demonstrated that a punch force of 50 kN, rubber hardness of 55 Shore A, and rubber thickness of 3.5 mm were the best processing conditions. For these parameters, the filling percentage, thinning ratio, and stress were 97.6%, 28.5%, and 1005 MPa, respectively.

Electoral suffrage between legitimate rights and national rights (Malaysia as a model)

Islamic political scholars have determined that Islamic legislation has a unique system and specific methods for selecting rulers. This system is subject to established religious mechanisms, criteria, and conditions. This Islamic system was clearly evident during the establishment of the Islamic state, particularly after the passing of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Consultation (shura) was employed among Muslims to choose a caliph, and no one was appointed as a ruler after him. This study aims to highlight the principles of Islamic politics through analyzing Quranic and Prophetic texts, examining the foundations of general and specific religious rulings, and applying them to the Malaysian elections as a model. The significance of the topic lies in the importance of transparency and integrity in presidential and parliamentary elections and their consequential effects. The researcher employed various methods including extrapolation, analysis, comparison, and conclusion. The researcher concluded that the Islamic political system has distinct electoral criteria that set it apart from global constitutions, and Islamic law attaches significant importance to electoral participation. Participation is both a religious and constitutional obligation for those qualified to take part in elections.

PIKTES İÇİN HAZIRLANAN HİKÂYE SERİLERİNİN OKUNABİLİRLİK DÜZEYLERİ

Texts intended for language instruction need to possess specific attributes in order to be prepared in accordance with the learner's level and learning objectives, and to be correctly comprehended by the learner. For this purpose, a set of distinctive criteria has been formulated. Among these, the concept of readability holds prominence. This study aims to determine the readability of open reading materials tailored for children who are learning Turkish as a second language. The study materials encompassed the "Salih Story Series" and the "Aslı Story Series," curated for Turkish language instruction within the scope of the Project for Supporting the Integration of Syrian Children into the Turkish Education System (PIKTES). A total of 20 storybooks, forming two story series, designed for children aged 6 to 12 of Syrian and other foreign nationalities residing in Turkey, at A1 and A2 proficiency levels, were analyzed. This analysis encompassed syllable, word, and sentence lengths; average word and sentence lengths based on readability criteria by Ateşman (1997) and Çetinkaya-Uzun (2010); and readability scores and levels derived from these criteria. The objective was to individually evaluate and ascertain the readability levels of the stories. The research data indicated that the word and sentence counts of the stories exhibited variability according to their sequential arrangement within the series and demonstrated that there was no progressive increase in the readability of the stories, from simpler to more complex, easier to more difficult, or from known to unknown. Following a qualitative approach and designed in accordance with the method of document analysis, this study culminated in proposing recommendations aimed at the development of a formula for assessing the readability of reading texts to be employed in the instruction of Turkish as a second and foreign language. This formula takes into account comprehensibility, and suggestions were put forth regarding measures that can be undertaken to enhance readability.

Machine Learning Applications in Sarcopenia Detection and Management: A Comprehensive Survey.

This extensive review examines sarcopenia, a condition characterized by a loss of muscle mass, stamina, and physical performance, with a particular emphasis on its detection and management using contemporary technologies. It highlights the lack of global agreement or standardization regarding the definition of sarcopenia and the various techniques used to measure muscle mass, stamina, and physical performance. The distinctive criteria employed by the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) and the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGSOP) for diagnosing sarcopenia are examined, emphasizing potential obstacles in comparing research results across studies. The paper delves into the use of machine learning techniques in sarcopenia detection and diagnosis, noting challenges such as data accessibility, data imbalance, and feature selection. It suggests that wearable devices, like activity trackers and smartwatches, could offer valuable insights into sarcopenia progression and aid individuals in monitoring and managing their condition. Additionally, the paper investigates the potential of blockchain technology and edge computing in healthcare data storage, discussing models and systems that leverage these technologies to secure patient data privacy and enhance personal health information management. However, it acknowledges the limitations of these models and systems, including inefficiencies in handling large volumes of medical data and the lack of dynamic selection capability. In conclusion, the paper provides a comprehensive summary of current sarcopenia research, emphasizing the potential of modern technologies in enhancing the detection and management of the condition while also highlighting the need for further research to address challenges in standardization, data management, and effective technology use.

A GIS-based multi-criteria decision-making approach for site suitability analysis of solar-powered hydrogen production in the Souss-Massa Region, Morocco

The transition towards sustainable energy systems underscores the significance of hydrogen production through renewable resources. This study investigates the potential for solar-hydrogen conversion in the Souss-Massa region using a comprehensive approach that integrates the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Geographic Information System (GIS) tools. Ten distinct criteria, grouped into technical and economic categories, are evaluated to identify optimal areas for hydrogen generation, with environmental criteria being used as exclusion factors. Hydrogen production potential emerges as the primary determinant, with the western region, emerging as a focal point for solar-hydrogen projects. A comparative analysis between AHP and Fuzzy AHP (FAHP) results demonstrates the robustness of the methodology. Sensitivity analysis sheds light on the impact of criteria weighting on suitability outcomes, providing valuable insights for decision-makers and energy stakeholders. The study further quantifies avoided CO2 emissions and presents compelling Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as the Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH) and the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE). The LCOE is found to be as low as 35.75 $/MWh, positioning the proposed solar-hydrogen conversion selected location as a cost-effective energy site. The LCOH for the designated location stands at 2.9 $/kg, reflecting its competitive stance. These findings collectively underscore the environmental and economic viability of sustainable hydrogen production in the Souss-Massa region.

Occupational Accident and Occupational Disease as an Obstacle to Work on the Employee’s Side – the Czech Perspective

In the paper, the author deals with the issue of the current jurisprudence of the Supreme Court of the Czech Republic regarding the employee’s right to wage compensation due to an obstacle to work on the employer’s side in the case the employer does not assign work to this employee according to the employment contract due to his or her common illness. She then assesses the relevance and applicability of these opinions in relation to occupational accidents and occupational diseases. At the same time, she bases her conclusions not only on the interpretation of the applicable Czech legislation, but also on a whole range of case law. In the conclusions, she also deals in detail with the employer’s obligation to transfer such an employee to another suitable job for him or her. The fact whether the employer has another suitable job available for the employee (and decides of his or her own free will not to transfer the employee to it) or, on the contrary, does not have another suitable job available for the employee is, in the opinion of the author, a key distinguishing criterion for considering whether the non-assignment of work by the employer should be assessed as an obstacle to work on the employer’s side (with the right to wage compensation) or as an obstacle to work on the employee’s side.

Buried Podzols as a pedostratigraphic marker for the Medieval Climatic Optimum: Grębociny soil in the dune deposits of the European Sand Belt

The paleopedological record documented in aeolian dunes of the eastern European Sand Belt comprises predominantly Arenosols and only occasionally well-developed Podzols. There are several Late Pleistocene pedostratigraphic marker horizons of varied soil types designated in the European dune and loess deposits, but none falls within the range of the Holocene. Buried Podzol occurrences found recently in 10 inland dune sites dispersed throughout Central and Eastern Poland share similar pedological properties, geomorphological setting, and age in the 5th–15th century AD range of the historical Middle Ages. Therefore, they meet the criteria for distinction as a pedostratigraphic marker under the name Grębociny soil, after a locality with the most advanced podzolization of the paleosol dated to the High Middle Ages (1000–1300 AD). Preservation of the soils was enabled by burial during anthropogenically induced dune remobilization. At least some of the investigated dunes were used as pasture during soil development, as evidenced by tetrapod hoofprints recorded in and above the buried Podzols. Prevalent podzolization during the Middle Ages, in contrast to preceding and later times, could be facilitated by not only an impact of agriculture and forestry, but also relative warmth and humidity of the Medieval Climatic Optimum (ca. 900–1400 AD).