bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lifestyle Modification in Respiratory Tract Inflammation: Persian Medicine Perspective
Authors: Tahermohammadi Hanieh , Hosseini Mahdi , Bahrami Mohammad Mahdi , Tahermohammadi Mohammad Ali , Ebrahimi Elham , Mosavari Narjes , Abdolahinia Ali , Daneshfard Babak
Published: September 2024

Excessive inflammation in the respiratory system could lead to life-threatening conditions. This situation is usually caused by irritants, allergens, pathogens, toxins, and pollutants, leading to airway inflammation. On the other hand, an inappropriate lifestyle can cause inflammation in different parts of the body including the respiratory tract. This study aimed to explore the recommended lifestyle modification for respiratory tract inflammation from the Persian medicine viewpoint in light of current evidence. In this review, first, we looked for lifestyle factors effective on the respiratory tract in Persian medicine sources. Then, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched to find evidence about the mentioned factors, using the following keywords: psychological stress, sleep, food, exercise, gut, constipation, cold, and airway or respiratory tract. In line with Persian medicine, current literature confirms that psychological stress, intensive physical activity, allergic foods, and cold ambient trigger the beginning of the inflammation process in the respiratory system. It could happen through different pathways such as downregulation of Th1 cytokines expression, cold-inducible RNA binding protein (CIRP) synthesizing, mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) overexpression, activating transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) channels, inducing a neutrophilic type of inflammation and damaging the airway epithelium. Mild exercise, well-being of the gut microbiota status, and reduction of sleep duration have beneficial effects on the regression of inflammation. Lifestyle modification could play an important role in the prevention and treatment of respiratory tract inflammation. Future clinical investigations should be conducted to evaluate their effects.
Ta'zîzu Dâfi'iyyati Thullâbi Riyâdh al-Athfâl li Tathwîri Mahârât al-Lughah al-'Arabiyyah al-Syafawiyyah min Khilâli Barâmiji al-Ta'lîm al-Mukatstsaf
Authors: Hadi Nurul , Alvina Nuri , Khaled Radhouani
Published: September 2024

This research study was motivated by several key factors. Firstly, the Arabic language holds great religious and cultural significance in Indonesia, as it is a core component of Islamic identity and practice, particularly in the context of Quranic education for children. However, many students at Quranic preschools struggle with developing proficiency in spoken Arabic. Additionally, educational literature emphasizes the critical role of student motivation in facilitating effective language learning outcomes. Therefore, it was important to investigate the factors influencing students' motivation to learn Arabic in this specific educational setting. Moreover, most prior research in this field has been conducted in non-Indonesian contexts, necessitating localized studies to explore the nuances of the Indonesian educational dynamics. Ultimately, this research aimed to help address the gaps in the existing body of knowledge around Arabic language instruction in Indonesian Quranic preschools. The researcher employed a quantitative approach and simple linear regression to analyze data collected from interviews, observations and questionnaires. Statistical tests of validity, reliability, normality, linearity and correlation were performed on the questionnaire data using SPSS. The iresults ishowed ithat iintensive Arabic classes had a significant effect on students' motivation to learn speaking skills, as idemonstrated iby ia ip-value iof iless ithan i0.05. Regression analysis further reported that these classes influenced motivation by 33.1%, as indicated by the R-squared value. Therefore, the intensive language exposure appeared to positively impact the kindergarteners' drive to develop their Arabic communication abilities.
Analysis of the Arabic Language Textbook for Junior High School from the Perspective of the Education, Standards, Curiculum, and Assesment Agency (BSKAP)
Authors: Amalia Nabila Nailil , M. Abdul Hamid  , Zakiyah Arifa  , Asbarin
Published: September 2024

Many textbooks available in the market require educators to be selective when choosing and using them as sources of knowledge to support learning. A high-quality textbook should align with the developmental and growth stages of students to achieve national educational goals. This study aims to evaluate and develop Arabic language textbooks based on BSKAP qualifications. The research employs a qualitative-evaluative approach, specifically a library research study with content analysis. For data analysis, Krippendorf's model is used, and the validity of the data is ensured by cross-checking the findings. The study's results highlight four aspects of textbook feasibility established by BSKAP: content/material feasibility, presentation feasibility, language feasibility, and design/graphic feasibility. Some indicators within each aspect require revisions, additional materials, and innovations from the authors of the Arabic textbooks under KMA 183 and the Arabic language educators who are implementing the independent curriculum.
Subjective well-being of Russians through the prism of their identities: state and factors
Authors: Dudin Il'ya , Tikhonova Natalia
Published: September 2024

The article shows the prevalence of identities of Russians related to subjective well-being (identity with people of the same material wealth, with those who are in constant need and with those who have achieved success in life) based on the research data of the Institute of Sociology of FCTAS RAS. The analysis of these identities effectively complements the traditional methods of studying well-being by assessing it not “in the moment”, but over a long period of time, since the identities are formed over a long period of time and are stable. It is shown that these three symbolic identities allow to “capture” different components of subjective well-being. Self-identification with those in constant need reflects the disadvantage caused not only by low income and experienced deprivations, but also by the gap between a person's aspirations and actual achievements. Identity with those who have achieved success is closely related to overall satisfaction with life and with one's position in the status hierarchy, reflecting the achievement of goals that are important to the individual (not necessarily related to material well-being). Identity with people of the same material well-being is more common among the well-off population, as many of the disadvantaged try to find more favorable grounds for positioning themselves in society. As these identities reflect different aspects of subjective well-being, the coexistence of apparently mutually exclusive identities is typical of Russians. It is also shown that the self-identifications of representatives of the mass strata of the country's population based on their wellbeing occupy an important place in their identification system, and that the prevalence of these identities is stable over time, although they are no longer among the “nuclear” identities. They are relatively more pronounced among representatives of polar groups in terms of their place in the system of social inequality. At the same time, as a whole, they allow to define the position of a person in the system of social inequalities quite clearly.
The updated values of a soldier of a special military operation: letters from the front 2023
Authors: Podlesnaia Mariia
Published: September 2024

In the context of aggravation of military conflicts throughout the world, including on the territory of Ukraine, it seems important to study the micro-events of the war, the value priorities of its direct participants — the soldiers. The space of war and its time (both in physical and metaphysical terms) seem to be the context where the soldier's axiology is fully revealed. The borderline situation (between life and death) creates tension and exacerbates existential choice. The main method is the analysis of ego-documents, front-line letters from participants in a special military operation addressed to children. Letters from participants in the special military operation were taken from an open source, a telegram channel of a volunteer group, with the consent of their moderator and the addressees themselves. The methodology of textual analysis is based on the ideas of “national unity”, “national religiosity”, the connectedness of Russian people according to the type of family relationships during the war, taken in one of the most iconic novels about the war, L. N. Tolstoy's epic novel “War and Peace”; N. A. Berdyaev's idea about the symbolic nature of war, which does not give birth to evil, but reveals it, and his focus on the messianic role of Russia in the military conflicts of the world; on the civilizational approach of N. Ya. Danilevsky, who sees in war a source of historical development and the formation of cultural and historical types. The results of the study substantiate the evidence of the hypothesis that axiology itself has its foundations in the cultural patterns of Russian literature as a basic component of the school curriculum, and is also imprinted in the works of Russian philosophers who accumulated the worldview experience of previous generations. The study established the presence in the axiology of soldiers of a special military operation of a reference point to messianism and the manifestation of the characteristics of the cultural and historical type of Russia. The space and time of war forces soldiers to turn to them and strengthens archetypal value foundations, actualizes historical memory and confirms its exceptional significance.
Trends in the dynamics of radicalization phenomenon researches: scientometric analysis
Authors: Savelev Aleksei
Published: September 2024

In an attempt to explain “who, how and why comes to terrorism?”, the research hypothesis that radicalisation is a predictor of terrorism emerged at the beginning of the 21st century. From this moment, the formation of a new scientific research direction on the phenomenon of radicalisation began and dynamically developing interdisciplinary field of study in the second decade of the 2 st century. The article presents the results of radicalisation research current state scientometric analysis the in the Russian and foreign research field, identifies trends and directions, outlines the opportunities and limitations of the development of scientific direction in Russia. The choice of the time period for the analysis (2014-2023) is due to the fact that the second decade of radicalisation research is the most active and productive. In Russia, radicalisation studies appeared only in this period. Based on the results of quantitative and qualitative analysis of Russian and foreign publications, the specific characteristics of the research current state are outlined. The key conclusion is that in the study of radicalisation, Russian researchers lag behind by at least a decade, the reasons for the lag and opportunities for the development of scientific direction in Russia are outlined.
Dynamics of everyday practices of urban parents
Authors: Gurko Tatiana
Published: September 2024

In order to further improve family policy, the article aims to analyze the dynamics of everyday practices of parents. The empirical basis is the databases on individuals of the
Comprehensive monitoring of living conditions (GKS-KOUZH — 2011,2016, 2018, 2020, 2022 years), which is conducted by the Federal State Statistics Service. Subsamples of urban fathers and mothers living with children under the age of 15 have been formed. The daily practices of parents are analyzed based on the indicators of work, leisure, sports, health, smoking and alcohol consumption contained in the database, depending on gender, educational level and number of children. The article presents an analysis of studies on the transmission of constructive and destructive parenting practices to children. It is shown that during the analyzed period, the proportion of parents who work in their specialty, attend various leisure facilities, participate in the activities of political and public organizations, engage in sports and drink alcohol is stable. The proportion of mothers attending religious institutions and meetings of believers has decreased. There are positive trends in a significant increase in the proportion of both fathers and mothers who are satisfied with their profession and salary, who make tourist trips, who positively assess their health and a decrease in the proportion of fathers who smoke. According to the analysis of the KOUZH-2022, more parents with higher education work in their specialty, are satisfied with wages, have the opportunity to work distantly via the Internet, practice buying food and goods over the Internet, make tourist trips, visit the theater, museums, exhibitions, restaurants, participate in social activities, do not smoke, play sports or active recreation compared to parents without higher education. Parents with many children are similar in terms of types of professional activities and level of education to one- and two-child parents. The absolute advantage of parents with many children is a significant proportion of religious fathers and the lowest level of alcohol consumption by fathers and mothers. Positive trends in the daily activities of parents inspire optimism about the prospects for fertility and the quality of parenthood.
Distribution and duration of chores in married couple households
Authors: Kozyreva Polina , Nizamova Alfiya , Smirnov Alexander
Published: September 2024

Based on data from the “Russian Longitudinal Monitoring Survey” ( RLMS-HSE), this article analyzes the gender distinctions and tendencies that characterize changes in the structure of how chores are assigned, and how much time is allocatedto them, in households that consist solely of married couples, during the years 19942021. As it turns out, in such households women tend to do much more work around the house than do men. However, both men and women have been spending more time working for pay outside of the home, though simultaneously the overall amount of time spent doing work outside of the home, as well as on household chores, has decreased. Other changes that were observed include a decrease of over twofold in the time spent on performing household chores by either men or women, and a somewhat less substantial reduction of the difference in time spent doing chores between women and men. Distribution of household chores by gender during the time period in question has become more equal mostly due to the fact that the time women used to spend performing household duties has been decreasing at a more rapid rate than in the case of their partners. The results of the study also point towards variability and a considerable decrease in the time spent on performing various household duties by the women and men who form families consisting of just the married couples. Where the discrepancy between genders is the greatest is when it comes to time spent on those chores that involve monotonous, tedious and exhausting work around the house.
Analysis of the mass survey data reliability (using the example of smoking prevalence in Russia estimates)
Authors: Babich Nikolay , Mikhailov Alexey
Published: September 2024

Survey-based estimates of smoking prevalence in Russia, given by various quite respectable organizations for the same period, range from less than 20% to more than 50%. This scatter cannot be explained by differences in the conceptualization of the indicator (who is considered a smoker) and significantly affects the overall picture of smoking in Russia and the assessment of the success of anti-tobacco policy. This raises questions about the reliability of the relevant survey data. It can be solved in at least two ways: by analyzing and eliminating discrepancy factors or by choosing one of the studies as a reference with a thorough check of the reliability of its data. The article substantiates the choice of the second path and the Russia Longitudinal Monitoring Survey (RLMS) as a reference. To check its reliability, three criteria were used: analysis of critical publications about research errors, methodological triangulation (comparison with data from other methods) and analysis of correlation with the consequences of smoking. All three criteria showed a high level of reliability of the RLMS data. The hypothesis about the research error put forward in critical publications does not find empirical confirmation. Comparison with other supposedly reliable data (both survey and non-survey) shows discrepancies below the margin of statistical error. The correlation of RLMS data on smoking with mortality from diseases of the circulatory system turns out to be extremely high. Therefore, it is advisable to consider the RLMS as a reference source of data on the prevalence of smoking in Russia, and indicators from other surveys that differ significantly from it as potentially questionable in their methodological decisions.
دور العادة في تأسيس الدليل النقلي عند الجويني
Authors: Dakkak Mustafa
Published: September 2024

في سياق نظام المعرفة عند الإنسان تبرز العادة أو النواميس الحاكمة للكون والإنسان فردًا ومجتمعًا في تأسيس معرفة الإنسان ونظرته للأشياء المحيطة به وتعامله معها، وتكوِّن هذه العادات مع دليل العقل الأساس الذي تستند إليه كل العلوم والتي منها العلوم الدينية، والدليل النقلي الذي هو المسموع عن معصوم حجة يأتي في مقدِّمة تلك العلوم، وهذا المقال يهدف إلى تبيين ارتكاز الدليل النقلي في تأسيس حجيَّته على دليل العادة، وكذلك إلى بيان مركزية العوائد في السياق الأصولي المشترك مع السياق الكلامي عند الإمام الجويني وهو إمام أصولي ومتكلِّم أشعري صبغ الأصول بخلفيَّته الكلاميَّة، وإظهار كذلك أن القطع الأصولي مستند إلى أدلة قطعية. وخدمة لهذه الأهداف فقد عمد المقال إلى تبيين معنى العادة والدليل النقلي في اللغة والاصطلاح، ثم بيَّن مكانة العوائد في السياق العلمي وخاصة سياق الدليل النقلي، وكذلك بيَّن صفات هذه العوائد وأنواعها، ثم عمد إلى تبيين نقاط الارتكاز الأساسية على دليل العادة التي بُني عليها الدليل النقلي، وقد ارتكز البحث في تبيين مركزية العادة في سياق الدليل النقلي في ثلاث نقاط رئيسية، الأولى منها: بيَّنت فيه دور المعجزة - التي هي مخالفة العادة - في إثبات صدق الرسول الذي هو مستند معرفة الشرع، والثانية: بيَّنت فيها دور العادة في تأسيس نظرية الخبر وخاصة المتواتر منه، والثالثة: بيَّنت فيها دور العادة في إثبات الإجماع، وختم المقال ببيان أهم النتائج والتوصيات التي توصَّل إليها.
MASLD: an emerging factor in the pathophysiology and clinical management of ICC
Authors: Li Zong-Long , Chen Jia-Lu , Tang Yue , Qin De-Long , Tang Zhao-Hui
Published: September 2024

This article explores the emerging role of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in the pathophysiology of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Despite advances in public health, ICC incidence has risen, suggesting overlooked risk factors. Recent studies indicate a significant association between MASLD and ICC, though causality remains unproven. The article reviews current research, highlighting limitations such as retrospective designs and small sample sizes. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive investigations into MASLD’s role in ICC pathogenesis, prognosis, and management. Future research should focus on integrating advanced methodologies to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic strategies, aiming to improve patient outcomes and develop tailored prevention and treatment approaches.
Patient perspectives on AI: a pilot study comparing large language model and physician-generated responses to routine cervical spine surgery questions
Authors: Yoseph Ezra T. , Gonzalez-Suarez Aneysis D. , Lang Siegmund , Desai Atman , Hu Serena S. , Zygourakis Corinna C.
Published: September 2024

Aim: The purpose of this study was to elucidate differences in patient perspectives on large language model (LLM) vs. physician-generated responses to frequently asked questions about anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery.

Methods: This cross-sectional study had three phases: In phase 1, we generated 10 common questions about ACDF surgery using ChatGPT-3.5, ChatGPT-4.0, and Google search. Phase 2 involved obtaining answers to these questions from two spine surgeons, ChatGPT-3.5, and Gemini. In phase 3, we recruited 5 cervical spine surgery patients and 5 age-matched controls to assess the clarity and completeness of the responses.

Results: LLM-generated responses were significantly shorter, on average, than physician-generated responses (30.0 +/- 23.5 vs. 153.7 +/- 86.7 words, P < 0.001). Study participants were more likely to rate LLM-generated responses with more positive clarity ratings (H = 6.25, P = 0.012), with no significant difference in completeness ratings (H = 0.695, P = 0.404). On an individual question basis, there were no significant differences in ratings given to LLM vs. physician-generated responses. Compared with age-matched controls, cervical spine surgery patients were more likely to rate physician-generated responses as higher in clarity (H = 6.42, P = 0.011) and completeness (H = 7.65, P = 0.006).

Conclusion: Despite a small sample size, our findings indicate that LLMs offer comparable, and occasionally preferred, information in terms of clarity and comprehensiveness of responses to common ACDF questions. It is particularly striking that ratings were similar, considering LLM-generated responses were, on average, 80% shorter than physician responses. Further studies are needed to determine how LLMs can be integrated into spine surgery education in the future.
Wind turbine foundation ring fatigue reliability analysis under wind-load using SCADA system
Authors: Zhang Zhenhao , Liu Yu , Li Wenbiao
Published: September 2024

Under the action of wind load, the foundation ring of the fan will generate stress concentration and alternating stress, leading to fatigue failure. Based on the average wind speed obtained from the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, the orthogonal expansion method of random pulsating wind field and the number theory point selection method are used to calculate and simulate the corresponding pulsating wind speed time series, and then calculate the wind speed time series and wind load time series. Based on the ABAQUS finite element software, a model of a 5 MW wind turbine is established. The modal analysis is used to obtain the modal vibration pattern and the intrinsic frequency to verify the reasonableness of the structural modeling. Subsequently, the wind load time series is applied to the wind turbine model to obtain the stress time series using instantaneous modal dynamic analysis (Modal dynamics). The stress time series at the location of maximum stress concentration in the foundation ring is extracted, and the stress time series with the same stress amplitude is obtained through conversion, which has Wiener characteristics. After obtaining the stress amplitude using the rainflow counting method, the fatigue reliability is calculated based on the structural fatigue reliability analysis method considering the threshold crossing duration of the random process. This research holds reference significance for the calculation of fatigue reliability under approximate working conditions.
Substrate stiffness modulates extracellular vesicles’ release in a triple-negative breast cancer model
Authors: Senigagliesi Beatrice , Geiss Otmar , Valente Stefano , Vondracek Hendrik , Cefarin Nicola , Ceccone Giacomo , Calzolai Luigi , Ballerini Laura , Parisse Pietro , Casalis Loredana
Published: September 2024

Aim: The microenvironment effect on the tumoral-derived Extracellular Vesicle release, which is of significant interest for biomedical applications, still represents a rather unexplored field. The aim of the present work is to investigate the interrelation between extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness and the release of small EVs from cancer cells. Here, we focus on the interrelation between the ECM and small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), specifically investigating the unexplored aspect of the influence of ECM stiffness on the release of sEVs.

Methods: We used a well-studied metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) cell line, MDA-MB-231, as a model to study the release of sEVs by cells cultured on substrates of different stiffness. We have grown MDA-MB-231 cells on two collagen-coated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates at different stiffness (0.2 and 3.6 MPa), comparing them with a hard glass substrate as control, and then we isolated the respective sEVs by differential ultracentrifugation. After checking the cell growth conditions [vitality, morphology by immunofluorescence microscopy, stiffness by atomic force microscopy (AFM)], we took advantage of a multi-parametric approach based on complementary techniques (AFM, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis, and asymmetric flow field flow fractionation with a multi-angle light scattering detector) to characterize the TNBC-derived sEV obtained in the different substrate conditions.

Results: We observe that soft substrates induce TNBC cell softening and rounding. This effect promotes the release of a high number of larger sEVs.

Conclusion: Here, we show the role of ECM physical properties in the regulation of sEV release in a TNBC model. While the molecular mechanisms regulating this effect need further investigation, our report represents a step toward an improved understanding of ECM-cell-sEVs crosstalk.
Non-aqueous rechargeable aluminum-ion batteries (RABs): recent progress and future perspectives
Authors: Thatipamula Sahithi , Malaarachchi Chamali , Alam Md Robiul , Khan Muhammad Waqas , Babarao Ravichandar , Mahmood Nasir
Published: September 2024

To meet the growing energy demand, it is imperative to explore novel materials for batteries and electrochemical chemistry beyond traditional lithium-ion batteries. These innovative batteries aim to achieve long cycle life, capacity, and enhanced energy densities. Rechargeable aluminum batteries (RABs) have gained attention due to their high safety, cost-effectiveness, straightforward manufacturing process, environmental friendliness, and extended lifespan. Despite aluminum having advantages as the anode in achieving high energy density, RAB technology is yet in its early stages, necessitating substantial efforts to overcome fundamental and practical challenges. This comprehensive review centers on the historical development of aluminum batteries, delve into the electrode development in non-aqueous RABs, and explore advancements in non-aqueous RAB technology. It also encompasses essential characterizations and simulation techniques crucial for understanding the underlying mechanisms. By addressing challenges in battery components, this review proposes feasible strategies to improve the electrochemical performance and safety of RABs and the development of hybrid lithium/aluminum batteries. In conclusion, it provides perspectives on endeavors in this field that aim to bridge the gap between laboratory research and real-world applications of RABs.
Recent progress of stretchable displays: a comprehensive review of materials, device architectures, and applications
Authors: Keum Kyobin , Yang Suyoung , Kim Kang Sik , Park Sung Kyu , Kim Yong-Hoon
Published: September 2024

Recently, mechanically deformable displays, such as flexible, foldable, rollable, and stretchable displays, have received considerable attention due to their broad range of applications across various electronic systems. Among the various types of deformable displays, stretchable displays represent the most advanced form factor. The stretchable displays require a sophisticated integration of components, including stretchable conducting, insulating, and semiconducting materials, intricate geometrical patterns, and multiple electronic elements. This comprehensive review explores the recent progress in stretchable displays, emphasizing the critical developments in materials, device architectures, and practical applications. Key innovations in stretchable electrodes and interconnections, light-emitting materials, transistors, circuitry, and deformable substrates are explored, highlighting their contributions to enhancing durability and stretchability. Also, the review highlights the latest research on achieving stretchability using intrinsically elastic materials or through structural engineering with rigid materials. Additionally, we introduce innovative applications of stretchable displays in various emerging electronic systems.
The Evolution of the Philippines’ Policy Towards Taiwan Since 2016
Authors: Chen Yue , Wang Kan
Published: September 2024

During his administration, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte adhered to the One China principle and Philippine-Taiwan interactions were kept within reasonable limits. Since President Marcos Jr. came to power, Philippine-Taiwan interactions have been enhanced and the One China principle has been relaxed. The dynamic elements that led to the President Marcos Jr. administration’s position on Taiwan are the leader’s personal experiences and security perceptions, Filipino workers in Taiwan, dissatisfaction with China’s handling of the South China Sea disputes, and US involvement in regional affairs. The transformation of the Marcos Jr. government’s position on Taiwan has complicated the situation in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. It’s almost certain that China would continue to keep its economic cooperation with the Philippines, improve the existing mechanism for dealing with the South China Sea issue, while firmly safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and interests in the South China Sea issue and the Taiwan Question.
A validity exploration model related to the existence of the generic problem-solving competence
Authors: Nguyen Khoa Lan Anh , Courtney Mathew , Wilson Mark , Nguyen Cuc T. K.
Published: September 2024

There has been a growing focus on exploring the existence of Generic Problem-Solving competence across various fields, leading to heightened attention in this area. However, most of the previous and current approaches are limited in terms of validity and reliability. Thus, this paper aims to propose a new approach based on The Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing validity framework to investigate this matter. The investigation leads to the review of the conceptions of construct validity in educational measurement. The paper concentrates on the proposed validity exploration (VE) model, representing an elaborate enterprise and a serial, progressive procedure aligned with the content and structural validity aspects of The Standards framework. The PISA Computer-based Assessment was used as secondary data for this investigation.
A computer vision approach for the automatic detection of social interactions of dairy cows in automatic milking systems
Authors: Ozella Laura , Magliola Alessandro , Vernengo Simone , Ghigo Marco , Bartoli Francesco , Grangetto Marco , Forte Claudio , Montrucchio Gianluca , Giacobini Mario
Published: September 2024

The integration of digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (DT&AI) in veterinary practice is one of the key topics to improve Herd Health Management (HHM). The HHM includes the prevention of diseases, the assessment of the welfare, and the sustainability production of farm animals. In dairy cattle farming, particular attention is paid to automatic cow detection and tracking, as such information is closely related to animal welfare and thus to possible health issues. Cows are highly social animals; therefore, a better comprehension of social context can help improve their management and welfare. In the field of Precision Livestock Farming, computer vision represents a suitable and non-invasive method for automatic cow detection and tracking. In this study, we developed and tested the reliability of a deep learning-based computer vision system for the automatic recognition of dairy cows in a barn equipped with Automatic Milking System. We aimed to build the social network of 240 dairy cows (primiparous and multiparous) to understand how social interactions can influence their welfare and productivity.
A monitoring platform based on electrical impedance and AI techniques to enhance the resilience of the built environment
Authors: Mancini Adriano , Cosoli Gloria , Mobili Alessandra , Violini Luca , Pandarese Giuseppe , Galdelli Alessandro , Narang Gagan , Blasi Elisa , Tittarelli Francesca , Revel Gian Marco
Published: September 2024

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) and early warning systems (EWSs) play a pivotal role in enhancing seismic resilience for both buildings and occupants. This paper introduces a monitoring platform that collects electrical impedance data from scaled concrete beams undergoing load and accelerated degradation tests. Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms are employed for predictive analysis, scrutinizing historical impedance data, and forecasting future trends. These algorithms adapt to environmental parameters, becoming valuable tools in data-driven decision-making processes. In particular, the study investigates concrete specimens in different test conditions, utilizing a distributed sensor network based on electrical impedance as well as temperature and relative humidity sensors. Real-time data are transmitted to a cloud infrastructure during accelerated degradation tests (both in water and in chloride-rich solution) and in room conditions. An AI-based forecasting approach using Prophet is proposed, ingesting electrical impedance and temperature data, and tested to predict electrical impedance corresponding to approximately 10 % of the time series balancing responsiveness with predictive accuracy, crucial for effective EWS operations and management requirements. The performance of the tested models is evaluated employing metrics such as Mean Average Error (MAE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), and correlation. The proposed approach surpasses statistical methods and deep learning techniques, reporting a MAPE always lower than 3.20 % and a correlation higher than 81.65 % (in wet-dry cycles in water these values are 0.65 Ω and 91.85 %, respectively). This proves to be a promising step towards transparent SHM, which integrates AI models facilitating self-monitoring and early maintenance prediction, thus enhancing the resilience of the built environment.
Improvement of metrology infrastructure in the area of extreme impedance calibrations
Authors: Cundeva-Blajer Marija , Nakova Monika , Sapundziovski Viktor , Demerdziev Kiril
Published: September 2024

The paper describes how the Laboratory for Electrical Measurements at the Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, an accredited calibration laboratory, enhanced its calibration and measurement capabilities for extreme values of electrical impedance. This was conducted through development of new calibration methods for instruments that measure extreme electrical resistance and inductance. The paper also explains how these methods were validated to ensure traceability and how the measurement uncertainty in impedance instruments calibration was innovatively estimated, by deploying the data fusion concept to increase the metrology infrastructure capacity. As the testing facilities for electrical quantities in Southeast Europe are not sufficiently developed, and some calibration areas of electrical instruments are not well provided by the existing laboratories, despite the economic and scientific demands, the relevance of this metrology infrastructure upgrade is evident.
Measurement uncertainty evaluation of equivalent roughness in hydraulic pipes
Authors: Lages Martins Luis , Ribeiro Álvaro , Simões Catarina , Mendes Ricardo
Published: September 2024

This paper addresses the quantification of the dispersion of equivalent roughness values obtained from the experimental study of hydraulic pipes used, for example, in water supply networks. This quantity is mainly used in the determination of the friction factor related to pipe fluid flow. In this context, non-linear and complex mathematical models, such as the Colebrook-White equation, are applied to characterize the equivalent roughness of hydraulic pipes composed of different types of materials. However, knowledge about the measurement uncertainty of the obtained estimates is still reduced, having a direct impact in the conformity assessment of this type of hydraulic component and in the technical comparison between different types of pipes (materials and manufacturers). The paper describes the application of a Monte Carlo method (MCM) in the measurement uncertainty evaluation of equivalent roughness. In addition to presenting the theoretical and experimental background, the paper describes the measurement uncertainty propagation, from the probabilistic formulation of the input quantities up to the output quantity. A numerical example, based on experimental data retrieved from field testing of hydraulic pipes integrated in a large-scale agricultural irrigation network, is shown in the paper, illustrating the suitability, advantages, and limitations of the proposed approach.
Green synthesis and characterization of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and their photocatalytic activity
Authors: Marconi Eleonora , Luisetto Igor , Tortora Luca
Published: September 2024

In this study, we compared two low-temperature synthesis procedures for the large-scale production of titania nanoparticles (NPs). The first takes place in an aqueous medium with an acidic environment, by using a triblock polymer surfactant (Pluronic 123). The second involves a polycondensation reaction of alkoxide precursors at 70 °C in a water-in-oil (W/O) microemulsion with a volume ratio of 1:1, using cetylpyridinium bromide (CPB) as a cationic surfactant. The morphological and structural characterization of the samples was carried out through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). The photoactivity of the nanostructured titania was evaluated by measuring the photodegradation of Methylene Blue (MB). The solvent-free synthetic approach provided spherical titania nanoparticles mainly constituted by rutile crystallites with a very good synthetic yield. However, the photodegradation rate of MB for such titania nanoparticles ranges from 30 % to 40 %, after 1h under solar irradiation. Conversely, titania nanoparticles obtained through microemulsion synthesis show a photodegradation rate of more than 90 % comparable to titania P25. This high-yield synthesis leads to the formation of TiO2 nanoparticles characterized by small crystallite aggregates (rutile and anatase).
Traceability and measurement uncertainty of non-removable field flowmeters using clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeters as reference
Authors: Simões Catarina Ferreira , Silva Ribeiro Álvaro , Almeida Maria do Céu , Covas Dídia
Published: September 2024

This study examines the traceability and measurement uncertainty of in situ hydraulic calibration of flowmeters using clamp-on ultrasonic flowmeters as reference. The procedure compares the equipment readings with the reference ones. Measurement uncertainty evaluation uses Guide to the expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM) formulation, considering the linearity conditions of the mathematical models applied. Experimental values are used to test the procedure and its suitability for actual cases where the expected accuracy needs to be achieved.
Design of an experimental approach based on the contrast-to-noise ratio measurement for X-ray computed tomography parameters optimization applied to a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer materials scan
Authors: Casaccia Sara , Pandarese Giuseppe , Castorani Vincenzo , Revel Gian Marco
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes a systematic approach for the optimization of scan parameters for industrial X-ray computed tomography (XCT), as regard its specific application as diagnostic tool on carbon fiber-reinforced polymer materials (CFRP).
This procedure allows the system operator to overcome suboptimal scan results due to a subjective choice of XCT parameters. In this work, XCT scan quality has been measured in terms of contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) metric, by calculating it on collected XCT 2D projection images. A four-factor five-level central composite design (CCD) was implemented to perform experiments, and a quadratic polynomial model was chosen to describe the effects of XCT scanning parameters combination on CNR measurement and finally to predict optimal results. Analysis of variance was carried out to evaluate the significance of the model on the response, reporting a R2 of 97.1%, and response surface analyses were also performed for CNR optimization purposes. In order to validate the CCD results, different XCT parameters combinations, coming from the CCD analysis on projection images, were used to run different scans, and, as result, the optimal CNR predicted from the model was also reflected in an optimal CNR measured on the reconstructed XCT images.
Artificial aging of monoazo and isoindoline yellow pigments
Authors: De Carlo Agnese , Graziani Valerio , Privitera Antonella , Sodo Armida , Branchini Paolo , Antici Patrizio , Tortora Luca
Published: September 2024

UV- and humidity-related aging effects on two yellow synthetic organic pigments, known for their good lightfastness, were investigated: Pigment Yellow 1 (PY 1, Monoazo) and Pigment Yellow 139 (PY 139, Isoindoline). The work considers the reactivity of these pigments, as individual pigments, in combination with linseed oil, and in presence of highly reactive inorganic white pigments: basic lead carbonate, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. Accelerated aging was induced via UV irradiation and high humidity rate in a custom-built chamber using both simple and bilayer paint mock-ups to simulate the technique of overlaying films in paintings. After aging, physicochemical variations were analysed using colorimetry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The results show that the accelerated aging induces a greater colour change in monoazo yellow pigment than in isoindoline one when in powder form. Conversely, when oil is present in the samples as binder, the colour variations are similar for both samples suggesting that the large part of the chemical/physical changes occur in the organic binder. For the bilayer systems, photoluminescence spectroscopy suggests that the substrates can induce a larger drying activity on the binder and could follow the contribution of fluorescence in the variation of the perceived colour.
IAEA fostering of the development and applications of nuclear analytical techniques for Heritage Science
Authors: Bassel Lena , Migliori Alessandro , Padilla-Alvarez Roman , Simon Aliz
Published: September 2024

The IAEA Physics Section is strongly involved in the development and utilization of accelerator-based analytical techniques, which are powerful tools for the characterization of cultural and natural heritage objects and materials. Various activities are carried out with the purpose to build capacity, strengthen capabilities, transfer knowledge and foster networking in the field of heritage science. In addition, access to different X-ray fluorescence spectrometers and other analytical techniques is provided at the Nuclear Science and Instrumentation Laboratory (part of the IAEA Physics Section), and access to ion beam accelerators and synchrotron light is facilitated thanks to collaborations with Ruđer Bošković Institute (RBI) in Croatia and the Elettra Sincrotrone facility in Italy, respectively. Member States are also supported on their Research and Development programmes, as well as through the technical cooperation projects. This paper aims to provide a broad overview about how the IAEA Physics Section is engaged in the field of heritage science, promoting the safe, reliable, and effective use of ion beam, X-ray and neutron-based techniques for the characterization and preservation of cultural and natural heritage through its global networks and partners.
Characterization of multi-layered wall paintings from a Roman domus in Santa Maria Capua Vetere
Authors: Alberico Miriam , Rossi Manuela , Birolo Leila , Ntasi Georgia , Maddalena Pasqualino , Salvatore Marcella , Tomeo Antonella , Vergara Alessandro
Published: September 2024

This paper regards the preliminary characterization of wall paintings sampled in a Roman domus located in the city of Santa Maria Capua Vetere. Despite its history and archaeological remains, there is a lack of scientific studies on Roman materials and techniques adopted in this site. Samples were taken from different walls of the villa. Pigments, binders, and mortars were analyzed by optical and electronic microscopies, vibrational spectroscopies including Fourier transform infrared and micro-Raman imaging, and mass-spectrometry coupled to gas and liquid chromatography. Altogether, the multi-layers preparation, the rich pigments palette (both natural and synthetic ones) and the variety of the organic ligands used (terpenic resins or animal glue) support the hypothesis of a very wealthy owner. The absence of calcite in the pictorial layer and the presence of organic binders clearly indicates an a secco technique.
Study and analysis of National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah collection for future generations accessibility
Authors: Hamza Nagmeldeen Morshed
Published: September 2024

The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah reflects an eventful history, displaying a rich diversity of traditional architecture. Today, the 'Late Fort’ exhibits historical, ethnographical, and archaeological material relating to the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah and provides an interesting insight into the history and traditions of this area.
The formulation of history through the study and preservation of the museum collection is a dynamic and collaborative process that applies a multidisciplinary approach, ethical considerations, and a commitment to sharing the richness of human history with current and future generations. The research focuses on and sheds light on the role of technology in studying, investigating, and preserving collections, which can extract information that formulates their history. Different cases here represent different time periods: the Daggers, two cases of the Khanjar/dagger, specifically of the Jambiya type, herbarium collections, and pottery from the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah are valuable resources and crucial evidence for formulating and understanding the history, culture, and for research, education, and inspiration when studying and preserving it. The research offers different methodologies used to approach the three cases. the study of daggers shows that examination prior to treatment can help to understand the historical significance of the objects and their technology. the digitization of the  herbarium, allow data sharing of images and make them accessible to botanists and others around the world. two potteries from a modern excavation, has being subjected to different.
analyses  if the sediment found inside them. By adopting integrated study and preservation approaches, using technology and the correct methodology, we can extract more information, extend the lifespan of collections, and make them more accessible and sustainable.
Experimental characterization of a novel combined composite reinforced mortar - fibre Bragg grating technology for the retrofit and control of existing structures
Authors: De Santis Stefano , Moretti Giovanni , Caponero Michele Arturo , Fares Sara , Mazzotta Cristina , Dell'Erba Diego
Published: September 2024

This article investigates the potential of a novel integrated system for the strengthening and monitoring of existing structures. The proposed technology combines Composite Reinforced Mortar (CRM) reinforcements and Fibre Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors and is named as CRM-FBG. Direct tensile tests were conducted as the first step of prototype development and were aimed at evaluating the performance and feasibility of the CRM-FBG system. Measurements provided by FBG sensors were compared to Digital Image Correlation data. The outcomes of the laboratory experiments showed the reliability of the proposed technology, with interesting prospective applications for the retrofit and structural health monitoring of the built heritage.