bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Legal Challenges of Wearable Technology Use in Sports Competitions: A Case Study of European Football Leagues
Authors: Ghorbani Asiabar Mojtaba , ghorbani asiabar Morteza , ghorbani asiabar Alireza
Published: November 2024

This study examines the legal implications of implementing wearable technology in professional sports, focusing on European football leagues. As the adoption of wearable devices in sports continues to grow, it raises significant legal concerns regarding privacy, data protection, and athlete rights. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative analysis of legal frameworks and quantitative survey data from 150 professional footballers across top European leagues. Key findings reveal that 78% of surveyed athletes express concerns about the potential misuse of their biometric data collected through wearable devices (p < 0.001). The study identifies three primary legal challenges: (1) data ownership and control, (2) informed consent and voluntary participation, and (3) potential discrimination based on biometric data in contract negotiations. A comparative analysis of regulatory approaches in different European countries shows significant variations, with only 40% having specific legislation addressing wearable technology in sports.The research also explores the intersection of wearable technology with existing sports law, including doping regulations and fair play principles. A chi-square test indicates a significant association between athletes' awareness of legal rights and their willingness to use wearable technology (χ2 = 15.7, p < 0.01).This study contributes to the growing body of literature on sports law and technology by providing empirical evidence and legal analysis specific to the European football context. The findings have important implications for policymakers, sport’s governing bodies, and athletes' unions in developing comprehensive frameworks to address the legal challenges posed by wearable technology in professional sports.
Electric Vehicle Battery Technologies and Capacity Prediction: A Comprehensive Literature Review of Trends and Influencing Factors
Authors: Sang Vo Tri Duc , Duong Quang Huy , Zhou Li , Arranz Carlos F. A.
Published: November 2024

Electric vehicle (EV) battery technology is at the forefront of the shift toward sustainable transportation. However, maximizing the environmental and economic benefits of EVs depends on advances in battery life cycle management. This comprehensive review analyses trends, techniques, and challenges across EV battery development, capacity prediction, and recycling, drawing on a dataset of over 22,000 articles from four major databases. Using Dynamic Topic Modelling (DTM), this study identifies key innovations and evolving research themes in battery related technologies, capacity degradation factors, and recycling methods. The literature is structured into two primary themes: (1) “Electric Vehicle Battery Technologies, Development & Trends” and (2) “Capacity Prediction and Influencing Factors.” DTM revealed pivotal findings: advancements in lithium-ion and solid-state batteries for higher energy density, improvements in recycling technologies to reduce environmental impact, and the efficacy of machine learning-based models for real-time capacity prediction. Gaps persist in scaling sustainable recycling methods, developing cost-effective manufacturing processes, and creating standards for life cycle impact assessment. Future directions emphasize multidisciplinary research on new battery chemistries, efficient end-of-life management, and policy frameworks that support circular economy practices. This review serves as a resource for stakeholders to address the critical technological and regulatory challenges that will shape the sustainable future of EVs.
Exploring Embedding Visualization Tools for Low-Resource Machine Translation

Authors: Sikka Varin , Dunnell Kevin
Published: November 2024

We investigate the potential of embedding visualization tools, specifically Latent Lab, for supporting machine translation tasks with a focus on low-resource languages. Through empirical analysis of bilingual datasets comprising high-resource (Spanish, German, French) and low-resource (Dzongkha) languages, we explore how embedding visualization can facilitate the identification of cross-lingual token correspondences and dataset quality assessment. Our findings suggest that while embedding visualization tools offer promising capabilities for dataset preparation and quality control in machine translation pipelines, several technical modifications are necessary to fully realize their potential. We identify some challenges and propose concrete modifications to both the datasets and visualization tools to address these limitations.
Impact of Temperature on the Efficiency of Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline Photovoltaic Panels: A Comprehensive Experimental Analysis
Authors: Hudișteanu Valeriu-Sebastian , Cherecheș Nelu-Cristian , Țurcanu Florin-Emilian , Hudișteanu Iuliana , Romila Claudiu
Published: November 2024

The negative effect of the operating temperature over the functioning of photovoltaic panels has become a significant issue in actual energetic context, being studied intensively during last decade. The very high operating temperatures of the photovoltaic panels, even for lower levels of solar radiation, determines a drop of the open circuit voltage, with consequences over the electrical power generated and photovoltaic conversion efficiency. The aim of the study is to investigate experimentally the temperature effect over the efficiency of monocrystalline and polycrystalline photovoltaic panels by using a double climatic chamber and a solar simulation device. Within the experimental program were analyzed two photovoltaic panels, one monocrystalline and another polycrystalline, with the same nominal power of 30 Wp. The double climatic chamber used is composed of two separate rooms, the cold and hot one, while the PV panel is placed as a barrier between them. The study is focused on establishing the effect of raising the temperature of PV panel over electrical parameters: voltage, current and power produced and for efficiency and fill factor. The operating temperature is controlled by the flowing of air on the backside of the PV panel inside the cold room. The simulation of solar radiation was performed by using an equipment compatible with the dimensions and characteristics of the climatic chamber. The level of radiation studied corresponds to a vertical integration of PV panels in building facades. The coefficient of the mean variation of the efficiency with photovoltaic panels’ temperature was -0.52 %/°C, for voltage -0.48 %/°C and for current +0.10 %/°C.
Open-Access 12-Minute MRI Screening for Acute Appendicitis: A Five-Year Retrospective Observational Study of Diagnostic Accuracy
Authors: Jones Andrew Owen , Nol James
Published: November 2024

Objective: This retrospective observational diagnostic accuracy study aims to demonstrate that open-access rapid-sequence non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is accurate for exclusion or confirmation of appendicitis. Methods: In 2017 a locally designed 12-minute MRI protocol was made available as a new open-access option (no booking needed) for any emergency department (ED) or acute surgical patient with any clinical presentation at the authors’ sites. Uninterrupted single radiologist reporting availability was provided. A 5-year consecutive report list from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2023 was recorded in an activity log, from which 3,478 eligible reports were identified as ED-based referrals assessing for possible appendicitis. There was “appendicitis possibility” in 581/3,478 (17%) reports and “no evidence of appendicitis” in 2897/3,478 (83%). These were retrospectively reviewed and compared with medical record findings of 557/3,478 proven cases of appendicitis (16%). Report availability and reliability metrics have been assessed. Results: Overall, 2,583/3,478 reports (74%) were finalized within 2 hours of MRI study completion, 3,254/3,478 (94%) within 4 hours. The 3,478 reports combined had 98% sensitivity, 98% specificity, 98% accuracy, 94% positive predictive value, and 99% negative predictive value for appendicitis. The largest subgroup, 15–19-year-old females—with proven appendicitis in 66/440, had 98% accuracy. Pregnant women within this series, 21/171 with proven appendicitis, had 99% report accuracy. Conclusions: The described MRI protocol is accurate for appendicitis assessment and is a suitable first-imaging choice for children, young adults, and pregnant women. It does not require intravenous contrast and poses no radiation risk.
In Search of the Rational Voter in the 2020 Presidential Election: Understanding the Impact of Voter Costs and Benefits on Turnout
Authors: Henley Tiffany , Diawara Norou , Hossain Md Iqbal , Brown Sam
Published: November 2024

The ability to vote is one of the most valuable rights and privileges afforded by the Constitution of the United States to its citizens. For many, voting is not just a civic duty; it is also a choice, e.g., a way to have a voice regarding issues that affect them and that they care about. Even before the inception of restrictive voter identification laws, civil and voting rights groups have expressed concerns over the impact some laws may have on specific sections of the electorate and consequently, how they influence voter turnout. Indeed, the research on voter participation or suppression is very active. Voting is crucial to our democracy, and any changes to it may affect the efficiency of the democratic process. The bigger question is whether voters behave rationally by engaging in a cost-benefit calculus in deciding whether or not to vote. Using data science, this paper will examine the probability of voting and investigate its impact via cost and benefit among other variables using the 2020 American National Election Studies (ANES) dataset. In addition, the study will also assess the impact voter perceptions of “a sense of duty” on voter turnout. Empirical work provides additional evidence that feelings of civic duty truly do motivate voter turnout (Galais et al. 2016).
Anthony Downs (1957), in his text “An Economic Theory of Democracy,” outlined a theoretical framework from an economic-based approach for voting behavior. Commonly known as the rational choice theory, he discussed similarities of the functions between consumers and voters and between business and political parties while maximizing a utility function. The goal of corporations is to improve their financial gain significantly. The utility for voting shows a lot more complexity and heterogeneity. One can posit that voters endeavor to increase the utility of their vote by maximizing electoral benefits acquired from political propositions (Antunes 2010, p. 157). Such actions have the potential to foster apathy toward political participation, including voting. Using the latest statistical analyses methods, we identify and understand the factors that benefited and hindered voting in the ANES 2020 data and the impact of voter benefits and costs on turnout.
Economics Analysis of Bamboo Marketing in Anambra Agricultural Zone Of Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Anarah Emeka Samuel , Umeukeje Adaeze Peace , Obiajulu Ikechukwu Samuel , Meludu Nkiru Theresar , Obot Akaneye Patrick
Published: November 2024

The study examined the economics analysis of bamboo marketing in Anambra Agricultural zone of Anambra State, Nigeria. The study look at the profitability of bamboo marketing in the study area, ascertain the constraint faced by bamboo marketers in the study area and determined the sources of fund, labour and transportation mode in bamboo marketing. Data were collected from 60 respondent who were selected purposively from four major markets in Anambra Agricultural zone using snowball. From each of the four markets in the study area, 10 retailers and 5 wholesalers were selected through Snowball Sampling Method (SBSM) which gave a sample size of 60 respondents (40 retailers and 20 wholesalers). The four major markets in the zone were purposively selected Otuocha market, Oye-Olisa market, Eke-Igwe Nteje market and Oye-Farm market at Igbariam. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin (GM) and 3 points likert scale. 38.6 % of the bamboo marketers in the study area sourced fund from co-operative societies, 30% of the marketer’s sourced fund from family members and relatives, 41% of the marketers used their personal bus and truck for transportation of bamboo to either shop or place of request. Majority of respondents hired labour (36.6 %) to harvest bamboo from the forest, 26.6 % use hired and family labour for the harvest. The total revenue generated in bamboo marketing in Anambra Agricultural zone by both wholesalers and retailers were ₦80,500,300 and ₦9,674,054 respectively. High cost of bamboo, high cost of transportation, high demand, poor sales, poor storage facility and bad weather show significance. Bamboo marketers should be encouraged to acquire improved production knowledge through seminars, workshops and field works to build confidence in them, this will increase profit in the area, especially in value chain.
Levitation Performance of Radial Film Riding Seals for Gas Turbine Engines
Authors: Mehdi Syed Muntazir , Kim Young Cheol , Kim Eojin
Published: November 2024

Turbomachinery of gas turbines uses seals to control the leakage between regions of high and low pressure consequently enhancing engine efficiency and performance. Film riding seal hybridizes the advantages of contact and non-contact seals i.e., low leakage and low friction and wear. Literature focuses on the leakage performance of these seals, however, one of their fundamental characteristics, i.e., gap between rotor and seal surface is scarcely presented. Seal pad levitates due to deflection of the springs at its back under the influence of hydrodynamic forces. This study develops a test rig to measure the levitation of film riding seal. High speed motor rotates the rotor and gap sensors measure the levitation of seal pads. Measurements are also compared with predictions from a simple 1-D Reynolds equation based model. Tests performed for the increasing rotor speed indicated that initially until a certain rotor speed, the pads adjust their position, then rub against rotor until another rotor speed, and finally starts levitating with further increase in the rotor speed. Moreover, both measured and predicted results show that pads levitated the most when located at 90° clockwise from the positive horizontal axis (bottom of seal housing) compared to other circumferential positions.
Diagnostic Approach and Tool for Assessing and Increasing the Sustainability of Renewable Energy Projects
Authors: Tian Jing , Culley Sam , Maier Holger Robert , Zecchin Aaron Carlo , Hopeward James
Published: November 2024

The imperative of achieving net zero carbon emissions is driving the transition to renewable energy sources. However, this often leads to carbon tunnel vision, overlooking broader sustainability impacts. To enable these broader impacts to be considered, we have developed a generic approach to assist renewable energy project proponents and assessors with evaluating how project-level decisions (e.g., emissions management, water management, land use) impact the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This is achieved via “yes/no” answers to a set of approximately 60 diagnostic survey questions, resulting in an assessment of (i) which SDGs are impacted by a proposed renewable energy project and (ii) which project-level decisions impact each SDG and whether this impact is positive, negative or neutral, highlighting any areas of concern and opportunities for improvement. To maximise the usefulness and impact of the approach, it is designed to cater to all major renewables (biomass, hydropower, solar, geothermal, wind, wave and tidal) and is implemented in a user-friendly ex-ante assessment tool in MS Excel that is freely available on GitHub. The utility of the approach and tool are illustrated via three case studies, including a large-scale solar farm, biogas production from wastewater plants, and an offshore wind farm. Results show that the case study projects impact the SDGs in different and unique ways and that different project-level decisions are most influential, highlighting the value of the proposed approach and tool to provide insight into specific projects and their sustainability implications, as well as which actions can be taken to increase project sustainability.
Description and Classification of Training Drills, Based on Biomechanical and Physiological Load, in Elite Basketball
Authors: Sosa Carlos , Alonso-Pérez-Chao Enrique , Ribas Carlos , Schelling Xavier , Lorenzo and Alberto
Published: November 2024

The aim was to understand and describe the physiological and biomechanical demands of various tasks used in basketball training and, subsequently, to provide a practical application of these tasks across a typical training week. Eighteen basketball players had their external load variables monitored across 179 training sessions using local positioning system technology. These variables included total distance covered, distance covered at various intensity levels, accelerations, decelerations, PlayerLoad™, and explosive efforts. The analysis revealed significant differences in both physiological and biomechanical loads across various drills. The results show that tasks with more space and fewer defenders impose higher physiological loads, while those with less space and more defenders increase biomechanical load. For training design, it is recommended to place tasks with higher biomechanical load at the beginning of the session and those with a physiological orientation towards the end. Understanding the distinct demands of different drills can help coaches better structure training sessions to optimize player load and performance development throughout the week.
Moderating Effects of Vulnerability on the Relationship Between Social Capital, Residential Satisfaction, and Attitudes Toward Disadvantaged Groups in South Korea
Authors: Kim Seong-Eun , Jeon Seran
Published: November 2024

Study examines the relationships among social capital, residential satisfaction, and attitudes to-ward disadvantaged groups in South Korea, with a focus on the moderating effects of educational and employment vulnerability. Using data from the 2022 Seoul Survey, which included a sample of 39,340 individuals, the analysis employed Hayes’ Process Macro to assess both mediation and moderated mediation effects. The results indicate that social capital significantly enhances resi-dential satisfaction, which in turn positively influences attitudes toward disadvantaged groups. Notably, the effects of residential satisfaction on attitudes were stronger for individuals who were educationally and employment-vulnerable, highlighting the amplified role of housing conditions in shaping social attitudes for these groups. These findings underscore the importance of en-hancing social capital and implementing targeted housing policies for vulnerable populations. Policy recommendations include integrating social capital-building initiatives with urban plan-ning strategies and addressing the specific needs of vulnerable groups through tailored housing interventions to foster social cohesion and inclusivity. Future research should explore other di-mensions of vulnerability and utilize longitudinal data to assess long-term impacts.
Development and Characterization of Hyaluronic Acid Graft-Modified Polydopamine Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Studies
Authors: Li Shu , Li Jia , Xing Jun , Li Ling , Wang Long , Wang Cai
Published: November 2024

The problem of antibiotic abuse and drug resistance is becoming more and more serious. in recent years, polydopamine (PDA) nanoparticles have been recognized as a potential antimicrobial material for photothermal therapy (PTT) due to their excellent photothermal conversion efficiency and unique antimicrobial ability.PDA is capable of rapidly converting light energy into heat energy under near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation to efficiently kill bacteria. In order to solve the problem of PDA's tendency to aggregate and precipitate, this study improved its stability by grafting hyaluronic acid (HA) on the surface of PDA. Using dopamine and hyaluronic acid as raw materials, hyaluronic acid (HA) was grafted onto polydopamine (PDA) nanoparticles by self-polymerization and Michael addition reactions under alkaline conditions to obtain PDA-HA modified nanoparticles. We confirmed the successful grafting of hyaluronic acid by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic hydrogen spectrometry (¹H NMR), Raman spectroscopy (Raman) analysis and other test methods. Near-infrared performance experiments showed that the temperature of PDA-HA solution increased rapidly under near-infrared light irradiation, demonstrating excellent photothermal conversion performance. In vitro antimicrobial experiments showed that PDA-HA had excellent antimicrobial effects against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli), and the antimicrobial rate was 100% under near-infrared light irradiation. The material is simple to prepare and provides a new idea for developing new antibacterial materials, which is of great clinical significance for the treatment of bacterial infections.
Retrofitting of a Multispan Simply-Supported Bridge into a Semi-Integral Bridge
Authors: Xu Zhen , Luo Xiaoye , Sennah Khaled , Chen Baochun , Zhuang Yizhou
Published: November 2024

Thousands of multi-span, simply supported, beam bridges with short or medium spans have been built in China. They often suffer from problems of cracks in the link slabs over piers, and deterioration and damage of deck expansion joints at abutments. To address these problems, one approach is to retrofit them by converting the simply supported box beams into continuous structures over the piers and jointless bridges over the abutments. This paper discusses the design methodology and details for retrofitting the Jinpu Bridge in Zhangzhou, Fujian, China, from a simply supported bridge into a semi-integral bridge, in which semi-fixed dowel joints are used to connect the superstructure and the substructure, including piers and abutments. Simultaneously, the finite element software is used to calculate the internal forces and displacements of the structure. The analysis reveals an 11.1% reduction in the maximum positive moment at the midspan of the main beam in the semi-integral bridge compared to the simply supported bridge. However, the shear forces at the interior pier increase by 6.4%. According to the response spectrum analysis, the maximum longitudinal displacement of the semi-integral bridge's main beam is 11.6 mm, reduced by 80.1% compared to the simply supported bridge under dead load and earthquake effects. The maximum bending moment and shear force on the pier of the semi-integral bridge are 984.7 kN·m and 312.6kN, respectively, both below their ultimate bearing capacities. The maximum displacement at the top of the pier is 7.7 mm, below the allowable 52.4 mm displacement. The calculated results conform to the design requirements specified by the code.
Postdigital Bystanding: Youth Experiences of Sexual Violence Workshops in Schools in England, Ireland, and Canada
Authors: Ringrose Jessica , Ging Debbie , Mishna Faye , Milne Betsy , Horeck Tanya , Mendes Kaitlynn
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we report on sexual violence and bystander intervention workshops we developed and researched in England, Ireland, and Canada, through evaluation surveys, observations, and creative arts-based approaches with over 1000 young people (aged 13-18). Whist the young people generally reported benefitting from the intervention, in the context of increasing use of digital technologies amongst youth, we explore the context specific challenges they faced in learning about and being supported through bystander strategies across a wide range of diverse school spaces. We use the term postdigital bystanding to explicitly explore how teen’s digital networks are often connected to the school based ‘real life’ peer group, in ways that complicate clear dis-tinctions between online and offline, arguing these posdigital dynamics have not yet been ade-quately considered in bystanding interventions. We analyse how intersectional community, cul-tural, and identity-specific factors in particular schooling environments shape responses to by-standing in postdigital environments, including how factors of sexism, defensive masculinity, elitism and racism played out in the responses to the workshops. Finally, we illustrate young people’s suggestions that schools need to cultivate better safety and support strategies for youth in order to make postdigtal bystander interventions more responsive and therefore effective in chal-lenging and preventing sexual violence in society.
Peculiarities of Dielectric Spectroscopy of Ferroelectric Nematics
Authors: Panarin Yuri , Yadav Neelam , Jiang Wanhe , Vij Jagdish , Mehl Georg
Published: November 2024

Dielectric spectroscopy is known as one of the most powerful technique for studying ferroelectric and other polar materials. Since the discovery of ferroelectricity in LCs it was successfully employed for characterization of ferro-, antiferro- and ferri-electric liquidcrystalline phases. However, recently the Boulder group raised the question of the applicability of dielectric spectroscopy for characterization ferroelectric nematics due to parasitic effect of the insulating alignment layers. This effects on the apparent/measured values of the dielectric permittivity. In this paper we study this effect in greater detail. The following issues will receive special attention. Are the real values of dielectric permittivity lower or higher than the measured ones? Can the real values of dielectric permittivity be recovered in the cell with alignment layers? We also provide an example of the effect of insulating alignment layers in non-ferroelectric nematic phase.
Farmer Perceptions of GIAHS: Analyzing Farmer Involvement and GIAHS Benefits in the Banaue Rice Terraces
Authors: Gonzalvo Clarisse Mendoza , Maharjan Keshav Lall , Baggo Jude Cadingpal , Embate John Mervin Lasafin
Published: November 2024

The Ifugao Rice Terraces have been the Philippines' first and only Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) since 2011. More than a decade later, this study assesses whether Ifugao farmers find this designation beneficial and if it enhances their sense of involvement. Through a cross-sectional survey of GIAHS farmers in Banaue, Ifugao, the study examines perceived benefits and involvement, along with views on youth participation in agriculture, farmer livelihoods, and tourism management in Ifugao. Findings reveal that 65.1% of farmers see the GIAHS designation as beneficial and 58.7% feel involved. Farmers who perceive limited tourism benefits from GIAHS are more likely to feel disconnected, while those who value the designation’s potential for improving income and consumer demand for Ifugao rice report higher involvement. Cultural heritage and ancestral values are significant motivators, with some farmers viewing GIAHS as a means of preserving traditions. Support from local government, subsidies, and media enhances involvement, particularly among those practicing rituals or growing the traditional Tinawon rice, which strengthens ties to GIAHS. Additionally, farmers involved in discussions or training on Environmental Conservation Agriculture (ECA) report a stronger connection to GIAHS, as ECA practices align with their traditional, sustainable approaches. Overall, this study highlights the complex role of GIAHS as a bridge between cultural heritage, livelihood, and sustainability, underscoring the need to integrate farmer perspectives more closely into GIAHS initiatives in Ifugao.
A Novel Multi-Feedback Differential Filter Instrumentation Amplifier for Βiosignals Acquisition Applications
Authors: Delis Athanasios , Georgiou Despoina-Polyxeni , Stamelos Ioannis , Alexandratou Eleni , Politopoulos Konstantinos
Published: November 2024

Efficient filtering in bio-signals acquisition is challenging. The resistance of the sources exhibits inter- and intra-subject variability or is unknown, thus using passive filters before the first amplification stage is problematic. Conversely, filtering after amplification does not effectively eliminate the amplified electrical noise, Main’s Interference, and the artifacts. In this context, the design and utilization of filters in the Analog Front End of biosensors, in conjunction with the first amplification stage, is not common but offers substantial advantages. In this study, the design of a novel Multi-feedback Differential Filter Instrumentation Amplifier (MFDFIA) is proposed. For addressing the aforementioned issues, the design and the equations governing the gain and bandwidth characteristics of the MFDFIA are presented and relevant topologies are explored. Even though MFDFIA has two op-amps in its first stage, due to its symmetric topology, the analysis can be conducted separately for the differential and common mode input signal with a simplified one op-amp equivalent circuit. Notably, MFDFIA’s CMRR is equal and depends only on the CMRR of the second stage. An exemplary application for EEG signal acquisition is provided, which has bandwidth 0.7 to 98.6 Hz, gain 50.3 db, power consumption 11.583 mW and 0.1-10 Hz noise 462.94 nVrms.
Electron Beam Evaporated Nickel Oxide Thin Films for Application as a Hole Transport Layer in Photovoltaics
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Istiaque , Aissa Brahim
Published: November 2024

We present the growth of nickel oxide (NiO) thin films as a hole transport material in photovoltaic devices using e-beam evaporation technique. Such metal oxide layers were reactively deposited at 200 C substrate temperature using an electron beam evaporator under an oxygen atmosphere. The reactively grown oxide films through electron-beam evaporation have been optimized for carrier transport layers. Optical and structural characterizations were performed using UV–Vis spectrometry, X-ray diffraction technique, contact angle measurements, scanning electron microscopy, hall-effect measurements. The study of these films confirms that NiO layer is a suitable candidate to be used as a hole transport layer based on hall effect measurements. Morphological study using field emission scanning electron microscopy confirmed compact, uniform, and defect-free metal oxide layers growth. Contact angle measurements revealed that the films possessed semi-hydrophilic properties, contributing to improved stability by repelling water from their surfaces. The stoichiometry of the films was influenced by the oxygen pressure during deposition, which affected both their morphological and optical features. NiO films exhibited a transmittance exceeding 80% in the visible spectrum. These findings highlight the potential applications of such nickel oxide films as hole transport material layers.
Effects of a Workplace Supervised Exercise on Psychological Capital: An Intervention Study
Authors: Salvador-Ferrer Carmen M. María , Diaz-Fúnez Pedro A. Antonio , Carrera-Ruiz Alvaro , Garcia-Artero Enrique , Monserrat-Hernández Montserrat , Mañas-Rodríguez Miguel A. Ángel
Published: November 2024

Public employees face a growing array of professional challenges, and psychological capital (PC) has emerged as a valuable resource to address them. Workplace Supervised Exercise (WSE) pro-grams can improve physical fitness and personal resources, though their adoption in organiza-tions is limited. This study examines the impact of a long-term WSE program on the psychologi-cal capital of public administration employees. Fifty-five participants completed PC question-naires and attended at least 40% of the sessions; 49.1% were women, and 40% were over 50 years old (age range: 24-73 years). Using a quasi-experimental design without a control group, the nine-month program (October to June) included measurements in October, February, and June. The data show gender-specific variations in PC patterns. Among men, incremental increases were observed over the three measurement intervals, with statistical significance achieved only in self-efficacy and hope. Among women, an upward trend was observed between October and February without statistical significance, followed by a slight decline. The results suggest that the WSE program may enhance personal resources, particularly hope and self-efficacy, highlighting the importance of tailoring WSE programs to the specific characteristics of the target group.
Laser-Assisted Scattering With Screened Diatomic Potential
Authors: Sapkota Asmit , Dhobi Saddam Husain , Khatiwada Subash
Published: November 2024

This study explores the differential cross section (DCS) for laser-assisted scattering of diatomic molecules, considering various polarization conditions (linear, circular, elliptical) and potential parameters. The primary objective is to understand how polarization, screening effects, and potential parameters influence the scattering behavior. Utilizing a model that incorporates the Morse potential with screening effects, the analysis treats the laser field classically as a time-dependent, spatially homogeneous electric field, while the electron dynamics are described quantum mechanically using the Schrödinger equation. The Volkov wavefunction is derived, and the first-Born S-matrix element is computed to evaluate the scattering process. The results show that the DCS decreases with increasing screening parameters, with linear polarization yielding higher values than circular or elliptical polarization. Specifically, at an initial momentum of 8 MeV and a final momentum of 9 MeV, the DCS for elliptical polarization is notably higher. The DCS also varies with potential strength and well width, showing a peak at 0.14 Å for potential well width. The findings suggest that linear polarization is most effective for scattering studies under varying potential strengths. It is recommended to focus on linear polarization for enhanced scattering efficiency and to carefully adjust screening parameters and potential well widths for optimal results.
Jadriyah and Umm Al-Khanazeer Island Sites, Baghdad, Iraq: Status and Eligibility as an Important Bird Area
Authors: Aya Yaqoob  , Nadheer Abod
Published: November 2024

في بغداد، كان موقع جزيرة الجادرية وأم الخنازير (JUKI) هو الموقع الوحيد للطيور المهمة الذي رشحته منظمة Birdlife International في عام 1994 (استنادًا إلى بيانات من عام 1984). لسوء الحظ، تم حذف موقع JUKI من قائمة IBA في عام 2017 دون التحقيق المناسب. قمنا بمقارنة بياناتنا لعام 2022 مع استطلاعين سابقين ونجحنا في حساب اتجاه الموقع لأول مرة. JUKI، مقارنة بعام 1984 كبيانات أساسية، لديها حاليًا مستوى متوسط من التهديدات (تغير استخدام الأراضي وتغير المناخ). يوضح تقييم الحالة أن الموقع في عام 2022 سيحتوي على 58.9% من الموائل المحتملة لعام 1984 المتبقية (حالة الموائل السيئة). لا يزال لدى JUKI 84% من أعداد الطيور المحتملة لعام 2011 (حالة الطيور المعتدلة)، مع الاحتفاظ بثلاثة من الأنواع الرئيسية الستة الأصلية؛ يتم الاحتفاظ بنصف أنواع الطيور الرئيسية (مما يشير إلى الأهلية المستمرة كموقع IBA). يحتاج الموقع إلى التنشيط الفوري لإدارة الموقع المناسبة الغائبة (تدابير الاستجابة) بناءً على معايير الاتحاد الدولي لحفظ الطبيعة وBirdlife International. أشارت معلمة الاتجاه المضافة حديثًا إلى اتجاه عدم التغيير – تدهور طفيف. استنتاجنا هو أن موقع JUKI لا يزال مؤهلاً كموقع IBA وأن إزالته من قائمة IBA لم تكن مستندة إلى أدلة علمية.
Studying the effect of some additives to the borosilicate Glass on the neutron shielding properties
Authors: Abd-Noor Saddam Jamel , Mkhaiber Ahmed Fadhil
Published: November 2024

يعد تطوير مواد الحماية من الإشعاع أمرًا مهمًا نظرًا لاستخدام المصادر المشعة في الصناعة والطب والزراعة. ونتيجة لذلك، تم إجراء المزيد من البحث والتطوير للنظر في أنظمة زجاجية مختلفة بناءً على صفاتها الفريدة للحماية من الإشعاع النيوتروني. تركز هذه الدراسة على دراسة المواد ذات الأساس الزجاجي لأغراض الحماية النيوترونية. يتعمق هذا البحث في خصائص التدريع النيوتروني لخليط يشتمل على زجاج بوروسيليكات ألمنيوم الصوديوم (SiB2Na2Al2O9)X، مع إضافة مواد تدعيم (SiC)100-X، (TiB2)100-X، وBiClO)100-X) حيث( X=95, 80, 65, and 50%),ويشار إلى المخاليط بالرمز G1 و G2 و G3 على التوالي. تشير النتائج والحسابات إلى أن إضافة مواد التدعيم إلى زجاج البوروسليكات بكميات مختلفة يعزز الإزالة السريعة للنيوترونات (R∑). تعمل زيادة نسبة التعزيز على تقليل  قيمة سمك النصف للدرع (HVL) ومتوسط المسار الحر (MFB) للنيوترون. بمقارنة النتائج النظرية، فإن إضافة نتريد التيتانيوم (TiB2) كمادة تعزيز إلى زجاج البوروسليكات يؤدي إلى الحد الأقصى من التوهين النيوتروني وأقل قيمة HVL عند X = 50. وبالتالي فإن درع G2 هو الأفضل للحماية من الإشعاع النيوتروني.
WITHDRAWN: Cytotoxic effects of polystyrene nanoplastics in different functional sizes on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and HFF-2 cells
Authors: Hanie Sadeghinia , Parichehr Hanachi , Reihaneh Ramezani , Samaneh karbalaei
Published: November 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors due to author disagreement with the posting of the preprint. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Sero-epidemiology and risk factor investigation for exposure to Japanese encephalitis virus in swine populations reared in climatically diverse regions of India
Authors: Mote Akash Balasaheb , Singh Balbir B. , Mehta Deepa , Patel Sagar M. , Dhanalakshmi M , Kumar M. Suman , Bhilegaonkar K.N. , DHANZE HIMANI
Published: November 2024

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is widely prevalent in the Asia-Pacific region. There is limited information on JE virus (JEV) seroprevalence as well as the associated epidemiologic and ecological factors in India. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of JEV and associated risk factors in swine populations from climatically diverse regions of the country. A total of 1205 swine serum samples were collected from the backyard/established/slaughterhouse settings of the western (Maharashtra state), northern (Uttar Pradesh state), northern temperate (Uttarakhand state), and northeastern (Assam state) zones of India. Information on demographic (swine population), geographic (paddy cultivation area) and weather (annual rainfall)-related variables was collected and analysed to understand their association with JE seropositivity. A JEV seroprevalence of 20.3% (95% CI: 17.9–22.7) using IgM and 16.6% (95% CI: 14.3–19.1) using IgG ELISA(s) was recorded, with an overall seroprevalence of 17.7% (95% CI: 15.8–19.6). The highest seroprevalence was observed in Assam state (30.2%; 95% CI: 25.9–34.7) followed by Maharashtra (17.2%; 95% CI: 13.6–21.1), Uttarakhand (13.4%; 95% CI: 10.1–17.3) and Uttar Pradesh (11%; 95% CI: 8.2–14.3). JEV seroprevalence was highest during the post-monsoon season (40.3%, 95% CI: 34.7–46.0, n=205), followed by the monsoon (18.9%, 95% CI: 15.7–22.2, n=410), winter (17.0%, 95% CI: 13.5–20.9, n=290), and summer (3.7%, 95% CI: 1.9–6.2, n=300) seasons. The final multivariable analysis indicated that odds of infection were 2.59 (95% CI: 1.77–3.81, p=0.001) times greater in the dense swine population area (population >7616–81872 v/s 313–2006) and 5.77 (95% CI: 3.80–8.76, p=<0.001) times greater in the small per capita paddy area (0–0.011 v/s >0.046–0.091 hectares). This is the first study reporting JEV seroprevalence in the swine population of the northern temperate Indian zone, and it is recommended that sentinel surveillance and JE vaccine coverage be extended to the newly reported areas of virus activity.
Effect of structural characteristics on the stability of multi-weak rock slopes considering the spatial variability of geotechnical parameters
Authors: ZHANG Qingqing , ZHANG Huabin , WANG Laigui , LI Quanen , YU Haoyi
Published: November 2024

The slope of open-pit mines is typically characterized by an interaction structure involving multiple weak layers, with these structural characteristics serving as key factors in determining rock slope stability. Under the influence of random factors such as engineering activities and geological structures, the weak layers of the slope and the intact rock layers undergo relative changes. This interaction leads to a more pronounced spatial variability in the geotechnical parameters that inherently exist. Consequently, twenty generalized models of the rock slope, each with different structural characteristics were established by varying the slope angle, weak layer dip, and slope height. The Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS) method was employed to efficiently generate parameters random fields. Utilizing mathematics software and FLAC3D, these random fields were assigned to the numerical model via an independent program. The variations in statistical characteristics of both the deformation and safety factor of the slope were obtained through the strength reduction method. The results indicate that, for both bedding and anti-dip slopes with stochastic geotechnical parameters, an increase in the slope angle results in a decrease in the safety factor, albeit to varying degrees. Additionally an increase in slope height leads to a reduction in the safety factor of the bedding slope. Reducing the slope angle is more effective than decreasing the slope height in improving stability. As the angle of the weak layers increases, the mean safety factor of the bedding rock slope decreases, while that of the anti-dip slope increases. The stability of the anti-dip slope is significantly greater than that of the bedding slope. The dip of the weak layer has a pronounced effect on the stability of the bedding slope; as the dip angle increases, the failure mode shifts from slip failure along the weak layer to slip-toppling failure. In contrast, the potential slip surface of the anti-dip slope typically manifests as an arc shape that intersects multiple weak layers. The sensitivity of the safety factor to structural characteristics follows the order of slope angle, weak layer dip, and slope height from most to least significant.
Research on Intrusion Detection Model Based on Improved MLP Algorithm
Authors: Zhao Qihao , Wang Fuwei , Wang Weimin , Wu Haodong , Ning Weijun , Zhang Tianxin
Published: November 2024

As hacking techniques have evolved, attackers have increasingly employed botnets to launch large-scale Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, where multiple compromised devices collaborate. These devices collectively send a massive number of requests to a target, complicating the identification and mitigation of a single attack source. To address these challenges, Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS) have been introduced to identify malicious traffic. Traditional behavior-based NIDS, however, depend heavily on balanced datasets. Underrepresented samples in the dataset often degrade model performance. Therefore, this paper proposes an improved NIDS based on a modified MLP algorithm. The model can enhance the detection performance of minority classes in imbalanced datasets. The model incorporates the AlexNet module into the MLP algorithm, where AlexNet is an algorithm used for image feature processing. This work reduces the number of convolutional layers and channels, employs smaller convolutional kernels, and reduces the number of neurons in the fully connected layer to tailor the model for intrusion detection. AlexNet extracts features, while SKNets enhance feature representation, and the tuned fully connected layer performs the final classification. Experimental results demonstrate that our MLP-AS algorithm outperforms the MLP algorithm across all seven proposed classification tasks. Notably, BotnetARES and PortScan exhibit significant improvements in f1-score by 18.93\% and 26.57\%, respectively, validating the effectiveness of the algorithmic enhancements.
Upcycling tannery sludge into superior micro/nano protein fibers to reinforce the mechanical and flame retardant properties of cellulose-based film
Authors: Wei Jiang , He Ting , Liu Mengke , Kong Fanyu , Dong Weijian , Feng Xin , Lu Xiaohua , Zhang Lilong , Zhu Jiahua
Published: November 2024

Micro/nano protein fibers have attracted increasing attention owing to their advantageous properties for applications in advanced materials. Traditional preparation methods often suffer from high costs of raw-materials and energy-intensive manufacturing processes, which hinder large-scale production. Herein, we present an innovative low-carbon approach for converting tannery sludge into micro/nano protein fibers. The alkali-oxygen cooking combined with ultrasonic process shown the potential to reduce carbon emissions. The resulting micro/nano protein fibers reinforced the mechanical properties of the cellulose-based films. The maximum tensile force of the cellulose-based film was increased by 55.40%, and the Young’s modulus was increased by 22.92%. The micro/nano protein fibers also imparted remarkable flame-retardant characteristics, as indicated by an increased peak temperature of heat loss and a 21.60% reduction in the peak heat release rate of cellulose-based films. This low-carbon and ecofriendly process utilizing leather tannery sludge not only provides a sustainable source of raw materials but also contributes to the circular economy by repurposing industrial waste.
Efficacy of a simplified pre-conceptional laparoscopic cervical cerclage for cervical insufficiency: a retrospective study from a single center Running head: a simplified pre-conceptional laparoscopic cervical cerclage for women’s cervical insufficiency
Authors: Kuang Ledi , Luo GuoLin , Tan Xin , Liao Hong
Published: November 2024

Background: Cervical insufficiency (CI) is a pathological condition in obstetrics in which the cervix fails to retain the fetus before uterine contractions or labor (painless cervical dilatation). Patients usually have fetal loss in the mid-trimester or spontaneous pre-term birth due to painless cervical dilation. For non-pregnant women with CI, prophylactic laparoscopic abdominal cerclage (LAC) has been reported to improve pregnancy outcomes, such as live birth, neonatal survival, and full-term delivery rate. Conventional LAC involves opening the vesicular space and separating the anterior broad ligament leaves. In our surgical procedure, these two steps were omitted.
Methods: An observational study was conducted retrospectively on patients who underwent a simplified pre-conceptional LAC between January 2015 and December 2022 at the West China Second Hospital of West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University. Follow-ups for all the patients ended at the delivery of the fetus. Subsequently, clinical characteristics, perioperative data, and obstetric outcomes were recorded and analyzed.
Results: In total, 108 patients were included in a pre-conception LAC group.
Mean operation time was 56.8 ± 22.8 min, and mean estimated blood loss was 21.4 ± 23.6 mL. Only one case of uroschesis was classified as a grade I postoperative complication, according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. No severe complications or sequelae were observed during the perioperative period. Obstetric outcomes from 98 patients were collected: three patients had miscarriages, and 95 had live births. Of the 95 live births, 4 were twins and 91 were singletons. Two patients had vaginal delivery, and 93 underwent Cesarean section; mean neonatal weight was 3310.2 ± 382.1 g.
Conclusion: A simplified pre-conceptional LAC is a simple, safe, and effective method for women with CI. Thus, it is worthy of promotion to assist women with CI in achieving improved obstetric outcomes. Vaginal delivery after LAC is possible once the tape is removed before labor.