bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphene Inks Printed by Aerosol Jet for Sensing Applications: The Role of Dispersant on the Inks’ Formulation and Performance
Authors: Al Shboul Ahmad , Ketabi Mohsen , Skaf Daniella , Nyayachavadi Audithya , Lai Fak Yu Thierry , Rautureau Tom , Rondeau-Gagné Simon , Izquierdo Ricardo
Published: August 2023

This study presents graphene inks produced through the liquid-phase exfoliation of graphene flakes in water using optimized concentrations of dispersants (gelatin, triton X-100, and tween-20). The study explores and compares the effectiveness of the three different dispersants in creating stable and conductive inks. These inks can be printed onto polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates using an aerosol jet printer. The investigation aims to identify the most suitable dispersant to formulate a high-quality graphene ink for potential applications in printed electronics, particularly in developing chemiresistive sensors for IoT applications. Our findings indicate that triton X-100 is the most effective dispersant for formulating graphene ink (GTr), which demonstrated electrical conductivity (4.5 S·cm−1), a high nanofiller concentration of graphene flakes (12.2%) with a size smaller than 200 nm (<200 nm), a low dispersant-to-graphene ratio (5%), good quality as measured by Raman spectroscopy (ID/IG ≈ 0.27), and good wettability (θ ≈ 42°) over PET. The GTr’s ecological benefits, combined with its excellent printability and good conductivity, make it an ideal candidate for manufacturing chemiresistive sensors that can be used for Internet of Things (IoT) healthcare and environmental applications.
The Validity of a Three-Dimensional Motion Capture System and the Garmin Running Dynamics Pod in Connection with an Assessment of Ground Contact Time While Running in Place
Authors: Drobnič Miha , Verdel Nina , Holmberg Hans-Christer , Supej Matej
Published: August 2023

A three-dimensional motion capture system (MoCap) and the Garmin Running Dynamics Pod can be utilised to monitor a variety of dynamic parameters during running. The present investigation was designed to examine the validity of these two systems for determining ground contact times while running in place by comparing the values obtained with those provided by the bilateral force plate (gold standard). Eleven subjects completed three 20-s runs in place at self-selected rates, starting slowly, continuing at an intermediate pace, and finishing rapidly. The ground contact times obtained with both systems differed significantly from the gold standard at all three rates, as well as for all the rates combined (p < 0.001 in all cases), with the smallest mean bias at the fastest step rate for both (11.5 ± 14.4 ms for MoCap and −81.5 ± 18.4 ms for Garmin). This algorithm was developed for the determination of ground contact times during normal running and was adapted here for the assessment of running in place by the MoCap, which could be one explanation for its lack of validity. In conclusion, the wearables developed for monitoring normal running cannot be assumed to be suitable for determining ground contact times while running in place.
Securing Secrets in Cyber-Physical Systems: A Cutting-Edge Privacy Approach with Consortium Blockchain
Authors: Ali Aitizaz , Al-rimy Bander Ali Saleh , Almazroi Abdulwahab Ali , Alsubaei Faisal S. , Almazroi Abdulaleem Ali , Saeed Faisal
Published: August 2023

In the era of interconnected and intelligent cyber-physical systems, preserving privacy has become a paramount concern. This paper aims a groundbreaking proof-of-concept (PoC) design that leverages consortium blockchain technology to address privacy challenges in cyber-physical systems (CPSs). The proposed design introduces a novel approach to safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring data integrity while maintaining a high level of trust among stakeholders. By harnessing the power of consortium blockchain, the design establishes a decentralized and tamper-resistant framework for privacy preservation. However, ensuring the security and privacy of sensitive information within CPSs poses significant challenges. This paper proposes a cutting-edge privacy approach that leverages consortium blockchain technology to secure secrets in CPSs. Consortium blockchain, with its permissioned nature, provides a trusted framework for governing the network and validating transactions. By employing consortium blockchain, secrets in CPSs can be securely stored, shared, and accessed by authorized entities only, mitigating the risks of unauthorized access and data breaches. The proposed approach offers enhanced security, privacy preservation, increased trust and accountability, as well as interoperability and scalability. This paper aims to address the limitations of traditional security mechanisms in CPSs and harness the potential of consortium blockchain to revolutionize the management of secrets, contributing to the advancement of CPS security and privacy. The effectiveness of the design is demonstrated through extensive simulations and performance evaluations. The results indicate that the proposed approach offers significant advancements in privacy protection, paving the way for secure and trustworthy cyber-physical systems in various domains.
Temporal Estimation of Non-Rigid Dynamic Human Point Cloud Sequence Using 3D Skeleton-Based Deformation for Compression
Authors: Kim Jin-Kyum , Jang Ye-Won , Lee Sol , Hwang Eui-Seok , Seo Young-Ho
Published: August 2023

This paper proposes an algorithm for transmitting and reconstructing the estimated point cloud by temporally estimating a dynamic point cloud sequence. When a non-rigid 3D point cloud sequence (PCS) is input, the sequence is divided into groups of point cloud frames (PCFs), and a key PCF is selected. The 3D skeleton is predicted through 3D pose estimation, and the motion of the skeleton is estimated by analyzing the joints and bones of the 3D skeleton. For the deformation of the non-rigid human PC, the 3D PC model is transformed into a mesh model, and the key PCF is rigged using the 3D skeleton. After deforming the key PCF into the target PCF utilizing the motion vector of the estimated skeleton, the residual PC between the motion compensation PCF and the target PCF is generated. If there is a key PCF, the motion vector of the target PCF, and a residual PC, the target PCF can be reconstructed. Just as compression is performed using pixel correlation between frames in a 2D video, this paper compresses 3D PCFs by estimating the non-rigid 3D motion of a 3D object in a 3D PC. The proposed algorithm can be regarded as an extension of the 2D motion estimation of a rigid local region in a 2D plane to the 3D motion estimation of a non-rigid object (human) in 3D space. Experimental results show that the proposed method can successfully compress 3D PC sequences. If it is used together with a PC compression technique such as MPEG PCC (point cloud compression) in the future, a system with high compression efficiency may be configured.
The Use of Triaxial Accelerometers and Machine Learning Algorithms for Behavioural Identification in Domestic Cats (Felis catus): A Validation Study
Authors: Smit Michelle , Ikurior Seer J. , Corner-Thomas Rene A. , Andrews Christopher J. , Draganova Ina , Thomas David G.
Published: August 2023

Animal behaviour can be an indicator of health and welfare. Monitoring behaviour through visual observation is labour-intensive and there is a risk of missing infrequent behaviours. Twelve healthy domestic shorthair cats were fitted with triaxial accelerometers mounted on a collar and harness. Over seven days, accelerometer and video footage were collected simultaneously. Identifier variables (n = 32) were calculated from the accelerometer data and summarized into 1 s epochs. Twenty-four behaviours were annotated from the video recordings and aligned with the summarised accelerometer data. Models were created using random forest (RF) and supervised self-organizing map (SOM) machine learning techniques for each mounting location. Multiple modelling rounds were run to select and merge behaviours based on performance values. All models were then tested on a validation accelerometer dataset from the same twelve cats to identify behaviours. The frequency of behaviours was calculated and compared using Dirichlet regression. Despite the SOM models having higher Kappa (>95%) and overall accuracy (>95%) compared with the RF models (64–76% and 70–86%, respectively), the RF models predicted behaviours more consistently between mounting locations. These results indicate that triaxial accelerometers can identify cat specific behaviours.
Sensor Fusion for Power Line Sensitive Monitoring and Load State Estimation
Authors: Schimmack Manuel , Belda Květoslav , Mercorelli Paolo
Published: August 2023

This paper deals with a specific approach to fault detection in transformer systems using the extended Kalman filter (EKF). Specific faults are investigated in power lines where a transformer is connected and only the primary electrical quantities, input voltage, and current are measured. Faults can occur in either the primary or secondary winding of the transformer. Two EKFs are proposed for fault detection. The first EKF estimates the voltage, current, and electrical load resistance of the secondary winding using measurements of the primary winding. The model of the transformer used is known as mutual inductance. For a short circuit in the secondary winding, the observer generates a signal indicating a fault. The second EKF is designed for harmonic detection and estimates the amplitude and frequency of the primary winding voltage. This contribution focuses on mathematical methods useful for galvanic decoupled soft sensing and fault detection. Moreover, the contribution emphasizes how EKF observers play a key role in the context of sensor fusion, which is characterized by merging multiple lines of information in an accurate conceptualization of data and their reconciliation with the measurements. Simulations demonstrate the efficiency of the fault detection using EKF observers.
Introducing “Trans~Resistance”: Translingual Literacies as Resistance to Epistemic Racism and Raciolinguistic Discourses in Schools
Authors: Fall Madjiguene Salma Bah
Published: August 2023

Translingual students’ identities transcend multiple languages and cultural allegiances. Sociolinguistics widely discusses the linguistic and racial oppressions these students face in schools due to epistemic racism, which is often observed in the tension between their multilingual and multimodal communicative styles and language perspectives rooted in monolingual and monocultural ideologies. This paper expands on the literature that denounces epistemic racism, uses Raciolinguistics and New Literacy Studies as theoretical frameworks, and reports on the following inquiries: What are the characteristics of delegitimizing school stakeholders who become agents of epistemic racism in their interactions with translingual students? How do translingual students reject these agents’ marginalization? Critical focus groups, semi-structured and arts-based interviews, and emplaced observations were used to collect data, centering the identities and voices of participants. Two key findings emerged. First, school stakeholders with various roles, social power, and degree of impact epitomize epistemic racism through ideological discourses. Second, “Translinguals” resist through novel concepts for which I have coined the terms "Covert and Overt Transresistance,” enacted by the means of resisting transliteracies. The theoretical, research, and practical implications of these findings, along with recommendations for future research, are discussed.
A Scoping Review of Correctional-Based Interventions for Women Prisoners with Mental Health Problems
Authors: Hidayati Nur Oktavia , Suryani Suryani , Rahayuwati Laili , Fitrasanti Berlian Isnia , Ahmad Che an
Published: August 2023

Women prisoners are a population at a high risk of experiencing stress, anxiety, and other mental health problems. This is because stressors in prisons, such as strict prison rules, intimidation, and conflicts with other inmates and staff, cause a high prevalence of mental health problems in women prisoners. Mental health services, such as correctional-based interventions, are an important part of overcoming these problems. Therefore, this study aimed to identify correctional-based interventions for women prisoners with mental health problems, specifically to determine the types of correctional-based interventions, the types of mental health problems experienced by women prisoners, and the effectiveness of the interventions. The method used was a scoping review based on Arksey and O’Malley’s framework. Articles were searched using Scopus, CINAHL, PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar with the keywords “Mental Health Care” OR “Mental Health Services” AND “Correctional Program” AND “Interventions” AND “Mental Disorder” OR “Mental Health Problems” AND Women” OR “Female” AND “Inmates” OR “Offenders” OR “Prisoners” OR “Convicts”. The inclusion criteria used were the year of publication (2000–2023), full-text articles in English, and the study sample was women prisoners with mental health problems. After selection, a total of 10 articles were found to meet the review inclusion criteria. The results showed that the correctional-based interventions given to women prisoners with mental health problems included Yoga, which combines mind and body; Seeking Safety, which was a manual CBT model; Transactional Analysis (TA) training program to enhance communication, relationships, and personal well-being; Transcendental Meditation (TM), a simple technique to reduce mental stress; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) teaches the ability to accept painful or unwanted emotions; and Trauma Effect Regulation to reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). All correctional-based interventions had significant results and can be used by health practitioners in prisons to address mental health problems experienced by women prisoners.
A Synthesis-Based Stateful Approach for Guiding Design Thinking in Embedded System Development
Authors: Chang Hung-Fu , Mobasser Supannika Koolmanojwong
Published: August 2023

Embedded systems have attracted more attention and have become more critical due to the recent computer technology advancements and applications in various areas, such as healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing. Traditional software design approaches and the finite state machine cannot provide sufficient support due to two major reasons: the increasing need for more functions in designing an embedded system and sequential controls in the implementation. This deficiency particularly discourages inexperienced engineers who use conventional methods to design embedded software. Hence, we proposed a design method, the Synthesis-Based Stateful Software Design Approach (SSSDA), which synthesizes two existing methods, the Synthesis-Based Software Design Framework (SSDF) and Process and Artifact State Transition Abstraction (PASTA), to remedy the drawback of conventional methods. To show how to conduct our proposed design approach and investigate how it supports embedded system design, we studied an industrial project developed by a sophomore student team. Our results showed that our proposed approach could significantly help students lay out modules, improve testability, and reduce defects.
Shoulder, Trunk, and Hip Sagittal Plane Kinematics during Stand-Up Paddle Boarding
Authors: Hibbert Jamie E. , Kaufman Corina , Schmidt Deanna J.
Published: August 2023

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) as both a competitive and recreational sport has grown in popularity over the last decade. Better understanding paddling kinematics is beneficial for both injury prevention and informing coaching practices in this growing sport. The purpose of this study was to analyze sagittal plane kinematics during both standing and kneeling paddling postures commonly adopted by injury-free, recreational SUP participants. Eighteen recreational SUP participants (seven males/eleven females) were asked to complete a series of paddling tasks on a SUP ergometer in two postures, during which kinematic data were acquired. Sagittal plane kinematic data were analyzed for joint excursion, or range of motion used, while paddling on both sides of the body in each posture. Analysis of variance was used to compare joint excursions across tasks. There were no significant differences in hip or trunk sagittal plant excursion between postures. However, there was significantly greater sagittal plane excursion at the shoulder in the kneeling as compared to the standing posture with the shoulder opposite the paddling side demonstrating the greatest total excursion. These results help establish the parameters of the paddling technique currently in use among injury-free SUP participants and may be used in the future to inform coaching practices.
Spatial Distribution of Ethnic Villages in the Mountainous Region of Northwest Yunnan and Their Relationship with Natural Factors
Authors: Liu Shan , Li Xuhua , Lin Qing , Qiu Jiang
Published: August 2023

The mountainous region of northwest Yunnan is a multi-ethnic region in China where several ethnic groups, such as the Tibetans, Lisu, and Naxi, reside. This study utilises the average nearest neighbour index, kernel density analysis, and GeoDetector (Geographical Detector) to analyse the spatial distribution characteristics of different types of ethnic villages, their correlation with the natural environment, and differences in the influence of various natural environmental factors. The results show the following: (1) the spatial distribution of the three types of ethnic villages in the mountainous region of northwest Yunnan are clustered. (2) Tibetan villages are characterised by high elevation, gentle slopes, proximity to the river, low annual average temperature, and low annual precipitation. Lisu villages are characterised by medium elevation, steep slopes, high annual average temperature, and high annual precipitation. Multi-ethnic villages are characterised by low elevation, medium slopes, proximity to rivers, high annual average temperature, and high annual precipitation. (3) Ethnic villages are affected by various natural factors such as elevation, slope, river buffer zone, annual average temperature, annual precipitation, and ecological environment. Among these, ecological environment has the greatest impact on Tibetan villages, and annual precipitation has the greatest impact on Lisu and multi-ethnic villages. (4) The distribution of the Tibetan villages is mostly constrained by the composite factors of ecosystem and precipitation, while that of the Lisu villages by the composite factors of precipitation and elevation, and that of the multi-ethnic villages by the composite factors of precipitation and temperature.
The Influences of Socioeconomic Status on Parental Educational Expectations: Mediating and Moderating Effects
Authors: Zhang Mohan , Hu Yun , Hu Yuanna
Published: August 2023

Previous research found positive correlations among family socioeconomic status, parental educational expectations, and children’s academic performance. However, more research is needed to validate the mediation effects of teacher–parent communication on family socioeconomic status and parental educational expectations. Employing multilevel path analysis of SPSS, the present study aims to examine the mediating and moderating mechanisms between socioeconomic status and educational expectations by establishing a framework incorporating socioeconomic status, educational expectations, teacher–parent communication, and coronavirus anxiety. We create a large sample of K-12 school students’ parents from southeastern China (N = 4403). The findings show that socioeconomic status positively influences parental educational expectations, socioeconomic status influences educational expectations through teacher–parent communication and coronavirus anxiety moderates the effect of socioeconomic status on teacher–parent communication. This research highlights how teacher–parent communication reflects the relationship between socioeconomic status and educational expectations in Chinese families in the post-COVID-19 era. The practical implications of these findings for parents, teachers, and schools are discussed.
Simulation-Based Optimization of the Urban Thermal Environment through Local Climate Zones Reorganization in Changsha City, China with the FLUS Model
Authors: Chen Jie , Shi Ruijie , Sun Geng , Guo Ya , Deng Min , Zhang Xiuyuan
Published: August 2023

Urbanization leads to changes in surface landscapes, such as the increase in built-up areas and the decrease in natural elements, resulting in local changes in land surface temperature, which often create unusually hot weather and affect livability, especially for mid- and low-latitude cities. Therefore, optimizing urban landscapes and adjusting the thermal environment is especially important to improve comfort and to achieve sustainable urban development. Existing studies on optimizing landscapes have considered mainly horizontal land uses/land covers but ignored their elevation. This study considered local climate zones as basic units to describe three-dimensional landscapes; we measured the relationship between local climate zones and land surface temperature, based on which the research further used a genetic algorithm and future land-use simulation models to optimize the spatial layouts of local climate zones in Changsha, China, considering multiple objectives including adjusting land surface temperature without affecting population carrying capacity, economic development, watershed protection, and forest and grass protection. According to the optimization results, the area of open low-rise buildings increased by 5.98% after optimization, and dense trees decreased by 7.64%; open low-rise buildings were suggested to be newly built in the city center and sparsely buildings should be developed in the surrounding administrative district far away from the city center. The optimization results contributed to a −5.2 °C reduction of average land surface temperature, which could significantly improve the thermal environment under the premise of ensuring the population and economic development levels and thus serves as a novel solution for improving urban landscapes to implement sustainable city development.
Habitual Activities for People with Dementia: The Role of Interiors in Supporting Their Development after Relocating to a Care Environment
Authors: Chen Jing , Gramegna Silvia Maria , Biamonti Alessandro , Cao Yuwei
Published: August 2023

People with dementia have pre-reactive instincts, known as bodily habits, that allow them to continue with habitual activities. According to recent research, continuing and developing habitual activities in care facilities can help individuals with dementia establish a deep-rooted sense of home. Three aspects of developing habitual activity are critical in this process: continuing habitual activities fluidly, incorporating positive interaction into these habitual activities, and carrying out these habitual activities regularly. Based on this foundation, this article discusses how the interior environment of care facilities can support these three aspects of habitual activity for people living with dementia. Three cases in a long-term care facility were in-depth examined by using the microethnography approach. The study produced four themes. These themes emphasize the importance of organizing and managing the interior environment to support dementia residents’ habitual activities. In addition, it emphasizes that caregivers and institutional regulations influence the organizational role of the interior environment.
Long-Term Dynamics of Ecosystem Services and Their Influencing Factors in Ecologically Fragile Southwest China
Authors: Ci Mengyao , Ye Lu , Liao Changhao , Yao Li , Tu Zhiqin , Xing Qiao , Tang Xuguang , Ding Zhi
Published: August 2023

Southwest China has one of the largest karst landscapes on the Earth and an ecologically fragile environment. A better understanding of how ecosystem services function in karst areas helps ecological preservation and policy implementation. However, little effort has been made to evaluate the long-term dynamics of ecosystem services across Southwest China. This study systematically analyzed the spatio-temporal patterns and the values of three typical ecosystem service functions, including water conservation, carbon sequestration, and soil conservation, as well as the effects of precipitation and land use changes between 2000 and 2020. The results showed that water conservation exhibited an overall decrease from southeast to northwest, while soil conservation showed the opposite trend. The regions with an increasing trend in carbon sequestration were mainly distributed in Guizhou, Guangxi, and Sichuan. Compared to the year 2000, the percentage of water conservation and soil conservation decreased by 4.50% and 0.76%, respectively. However, carbon sequestration increased by 94.35%. The total value of ecosystem services in Southwest China showed a 90.00% increase in 2020 relative to 2000. Water conservation and carbon sequestration had a much closer correlation with precipitation. The impact of soil conservation was more significantly influenced by land use changes.
Enablers for Adopting Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directives by Electronic Manufacturing Service Providers
Authors: Cheng Jeng-Chieh , Li Jeen-Fong , Huang Chi-Yo
Published: August 2023

The Electronic Manufacturing Service (EMS) industry contributes significantly to toxic waste generation due to its fabrication processes. Notably, adherence to the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive varies amongst EMS providers, despite its aim to reduce electronic waste. This study explores the factors influencing EMS providers’ decision to adopt the RoHS directive, utilizing the technology–organization–environment (TOE) and the human–organization–technology (HOT) fit, or the TOE-HOT fit framework. We validated our framework using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), based on responses from 379 questionnaires from major EMS providers. The results demonstrated that expert resources, adequate resources, perceived industrial pressure, institutional pressure, and costs were positively associated with RoHS adoption. However, innovation, relative advantage, and verification ability were identified as significant barriers. In particular, innovation in the human dimension was the key determinant for RoHS adoption. Therefore, clear policy instruments and regulations may enhance RoHS adoption by EMS providers. These findings can guide environmental policy definitions in governmental laws and strategies, encouraging EMS providers and other firms to adopt RoHS standards.
Exploring Phosphorus Fraction Dynamics in Loess Soils: Impact of Long-Term Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilization on Cropland and Fallow Land
Authors: Mahmood Mohsin , Mehmood Sajid , Ahmed Waqas , Salah Elrys Ahmed , Tian Yi , Hui Xiaoli , Ayyoub Anam , Elnahal Ahmed S. M. , Li Weidong , Wang Zhaohui , Liu Jinshan
Published: August 2023

Long-term cropping systems require balanced phosphorus (P) management for better yield and environmental sustainability. However, the soil P transformations under fallow rotations with and without long-term nitrogen (N) and P fertilization largely remained unknown. This study evaluated the status of P forms in loess soils in response to varied combined rates of N and P fertilizers, tillage management practices, fallow land systems (natural fallow (NF), and bare fallow (BF)). Four NP treatments (N0P0, control; N0P100, 100 kg P ha−1; N160P0, 160 kg N ha−1; and N160P100), and two treatments with no fertilizer application and crops (NF and BF) were conducted. The treatments N0P100 and N160P100 significantly increased soil total P, inorganic P (Pi), organic P (Po), and Olsen P concentrations compared to the control, NF, and BF treatments. Labile P fractions (NaHCO3-Po and NaHCO3-Pi) were 7.30% and 11.8–12.4% higher in fertilized treatments than in control, NF, and BF treatments. The moderately labile NaOH-Pi was stable in all treatments, but NaOH-Po significantly decreased in the NF (2.60%) and BF (1.40%) treatments compared to the control and fertilized treatments; however, HClD-Pi was 59.1–66.0% higher in NF and BF compared to the control and fertilized treatments. Non-labile P (HClC-Pi and HClc-Po) fractions showed no significant difference between the fertilized and unfertilized treatments. Residual P levels were substantially greater in the P fertilized (N0P100) treatment than in the fallow treatments. The conceptual framework and redundancy (RDA) analysis revealed that the labile (NaHCO3-Pi and NaHCO3-Po) and moderately labile P fractions (NaOH-Po, NaOH-Pi, and HClD-Pi) were substantially associated with Olsen P contents, grain yield, and P uptake. Higher moderate fraction concentrations in fallows and their positive correlation with yield, P uptake, and Olsen P predict the importance of reserved P in these soils upon long-term fertilization, suggesting the utilization of P legacy and optimizing fertilizer applications.
SCHEMA: A Process for the Creation and Evaluation of Serious Games—A Systematic Review towards Sustainability
Authors: Merino-Cajaraville Alba , Reyes-de-Cózar Salvador , Navazo-Ostúa Pablo
Published: August 2023

The Internet and technology have flooded all the activities of our daily lives, making digitalisation a reality. Education is no stranger to this reality and is beginning to incorporate new learning methodologies in the classroom. Methodologies such as game-based learning are presented as appropriate solutions for digital generations, leading the video game industry to produce in a less controlled way. Therefore, this research aims to systematise the scientific production of serious games by studying methodological models and processes for both the creation and evaluation of educational video games and identifying common patterns and differential elements. To this end, a systematic literature review of existing models was carried out under the PRISMA protocol. An initial sample of 13,692 articles was used to arrive at the 15 studies included in this review, following the eligibility criteria of the PICO model. The results show that, although there is a certain unanimity in the methodologies of the different authors, aspects, such as the iteration of the process or the inclusion of teachers in the creation of the video game, must be sufficiently considered. This review led to the creation of SCHEMA, a methodological model for designing serious games that incorporates these deficiencies.
Proposing a Framework for the Digital Transformation Maturity of Electronic Sports Businesses in Developing Countries
Authors: Mohammadi Sardar , Heidari Arman , Navkhsi Jamil
Published: August 2023

Digital transformation has become the top priority for 80% of sports companies worldwide, but statistics show that between 70 and 95% of all digital transformation projects fail due to the significant and varied challenges that sports businesses face during the digital transformation process. This is because strategy, not digital technology, drives digital transformation, and without a mature digital transformation model, success is unlikely. Moreover, the digital transformation model of developing and developed countries is not the same, and it cannot be adopted as a blueprint. Therefore, the aim of this research was to propose a framework for the digital transformation maturity of electronic sports businesses in developing countries. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of 15 stakeholders of electronic sports businesses in Iran. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interviews, and three main perspectives were identified: (1) enablers, (2) digital resilience and capabilities, and (3) digital transformation maturity stages. The enablers were formed by six sub-themes, including governance and leadership, strategy, culture, and skills, innovation, technology, and data. Digital resilience and capabilities were formed by four sub-themes, i.e., business model and ecosystem, digital customer experience, digital employee experience, and digital processes. Additionally, it was found that the digital transformation maturity stages were based on four stages: digital beginners, digital followers, digital conservatives, and digital leaders. The findings indicate that moving towards digital transformation and achieving digital resilience in electronic sports businesses will be impossible without synergy between enablers and digital resilience and capabilities. This framework can be useful for electronic sports businesses to evaluate their current digital status and effectively guide them towards a desirable digital status. Furthermore, electronic sports businesses can prioritize their efforts and resources for digital transformation by focusing on targeted capabilities and enablers and ensure the more effective and efficient allocation of resources towards digital transformation.
A Review of Sustainable Total Productive Maintenance (STPM)
Authors: Hallioui Anouar , Herrou Brahim , Katina Polinpapilinho F. , Santos Ricardo S. , Egbue Ona , Jasiulewicz-Kaczmarek Małgorzata , Soares Jose Miguel , Marques Pedro Carmona
Published: August 2023

Sustainable Total Productive Maintenance (STPM) arose in 2021 as a promising, new concept to fill the lack of sustainability in Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and allow companies to overcome its implementation barriers. It revolves around increasing the understanding of the systems approach and contributing to setting contemporary companies’ sustainable ideology by supporting orientation toward sustainability from a sustainable maintenance perspective. However, STPM is still in its infancy and is viewed as a complement to the traditional TPM approach and is based on its pillars. Moreover, there is still a dearth of literature discussing STPM. This study aims to present STPM as a novel substitute for TPM while building its unique mechanism based on re-engineered fourth generation management (R4thGM). To pursue such a goal, 94 papers from Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct databases published in 2008–2023 were reviewed. This study’s novelty comes from presenting STPM as the best-suited lean manufacturing and sustainability strategy for enhancing sustainable maintenance, encouraging contemporary maintenance (i.e., Industry 4.0 technology-based sustainable maintenance), and supporting second-era contemporary companies’ orientation toward sustainability. Furthermore, based on recent studies, propositions are formulated to achieve STPM. Finally, research implications and future directions are presented.
Auxiliary Steering Control of Vehicle Driving with Force/Haptic Guidance
Authors: Shi Xiaobo , Zhao Dingxuan , Zhong Yuhang , Chang Jinming , Ni Tao , Chen Xiangxian
Published: August 2023

The rapid development of the automobile industry has resulted in the development of many vehicles, increased traffic, and frequent accidents. The complexity of road conditions is a major contributor to the occurrence of traffic accidents. Drivers are distracted and hence unable to fully observe all road information and make optimal and timely driving decisions. This study proposes an auxiliary steering control system with force/tactile guidance (ASCFT) and its corresponding control strategy to address this problem. We combined vehicle autonomous path planning based on road condition information and the human–machine sharing control strategy, which integrated the manipulative force of the driver and a virtual guidance force on the steering wheel. Consequently, the ASCFT eliminated the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the steering wheels in favor of a force/tactile-assisted steering structure, providing the driver with a sense of steering force based on road information. Additionally, we proposed a smooth vehicle trajectory optimization method based on the improved RRT algorithm and a path-following controller based on the forecast information to achieve auxiliary safety driving. The ASCFT’s performance was confirmed through constructing a fixed-base simulator experimental platform with the ASCFT. The results revealed that at the vehicle speed of 60 km/h and a handwheel rotation of 60°, the steering wheel was instantly released and turned back in about 3.5 s. Furthermore, predictive haptic feedback warned the driver of an upcoming obstacle.
The Impact of Green Technology Research and Development (R&D) Investment on Performance: A Case Study of Listed Energy Companies in Beijing, China
Authors: Song Piaopeng , Gu Yuxiao , Su Bin , Tanveer Arifa , Peng Qiao , Gao Weijun , Wu Shaomin , Zeng Shihong
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between green technology R&D investment and corporate performance (ROA) of 44 Beijing-listed energy companies from 2016 to 2021 using a threshold regression model. The results show that there is an inverse W-shaped nonlinear relationship between green technology R&D investment and firm performance. This means that green technology R&D investments only have a positive effect on firm performance within an appropriate green technology R&D investment interval, and a negative effect occurs outside this interval. Additionally, the study analyses the influence of three threshold variables (firm size, capital structure and capital density) on the relationship between green technology R&D investment and firm performance. The results show that firm size has an inversely- U-shaped relationship, the capital structure has a negative nonlinear relationship and the capital density has an inversely N-shaped relationship. Optimal intervals are observed for all three threshold variables. Moreover, the study shows that the green technology R&D investment intensity has a lagged effect on firm performance. The positive influence weakens over time, and the negative influence becomes more pronounced. The findings of the study can help energy companies to develop green technology R&D innovation strategies, such as differentiating green technology R&D expenditures for companies in different development situations. It can also exploit the driving effect of green technology R&D investment on firm performance in the context of China’s energy sector restructuring.
Anisotropic Scaling Non-Relativistic Holography: A Symmetry Perspective
Authors: Lü Hong , Mao Pujian , Wu Junbao
Published: August 2023

We study the holographic dual of the two-dimensional non-relativistic field theory with anisotropic scaling from a symmetry perspective. We construct a new four-dimensional metric with two-dimensional global anisotropic scaling isometry. The four-dimensional spacetime is homogeneous and is a solution of Einstein gravity with quadratic-curvature extension. We consider this spacetime dual to the vacuum of the boundary field theory. By introducing a proper solution phase space, we find that the asymptotic symmetry of the gravity theory is the two-dimensional local anisotropic conformal symmetry, which recovers precisely the results from the dual non-relativistic field theory side.
Optimizing Mean Estimators with Calibrated Minimum Covariance Determinant in Median Ranked Set Sampling
Authors: Alomair Abdullah Mohammed , Shahzad Usman
Published: August 2023

Calibration methods enhance estimates by modifying the initial design weights, for which supplementary information is exploited. This paper first proposes a generalized class of minimum-covariance-determinant (MCD)-based calibration estimators and then presents a novel class of MCD-based calibrated estimators under a stratified median-ranked-set-sampling (MRSS) design. Further, we also present a double MRSS version of generalized and novel classes of estimators. To assess and compare the performance of the generalized and novel classes of estimators, both real and artificial datasets are utilized. In the presented practical scenarios and real-world applications, we utilize information from a dataset comprising 800 individuals in Turkey from 2014. These data include body mass index (BMI) as the primary variable of interest and age values as auxiliary variables. The BMI results shows that the proposed estimators (y¯PMI=581.1897,y¯PaMI=544.8397) have minimum and (y¯PMII=669.1822,y¯PaMII=648.2363) have maximum PREs in the case of single and double MRSS for odd sample sizes. Similarly, (y¯PMI=860.0099,y¯PaMI=844.7803) have minimum and (y¯PMII=974.5859,y¯PaMII=953.7233) have maximum PREs in the case of single and double MRSS for even sample sizes. Additionally, we conduct a simulation study using a symmetric dataset.
Qualitative Causal Loop Diagram: One Health Model Conceptualizing Brucellosis in Jordan
Authors: Taha Haitham , Durham Jo , Smith Carl , Reid Simon
Published: August 2023

Background: Brucellosis is a serious public health problem distributed worldwide. Jordan has one of the highest incidences of brucellosis globally, mostly caused by infection with Brucella melitensis, which is associated with small, ruminant animals such as sheep. Sheep are an important livestock species in Jordan where there is a high value is placed on keeping animals at home. The incidence of human brucellosis rapidly increased following the Syrian conflict, in association with the resettlement of displaced people. Methods: A systems thinking (ST) approach was applied to develop a model to explain the dynamics of brucellosis in Jordan. A causal loop diagram (CLD) was developed to visualize and conceptualize interactions and feedback between several factors involved in sheep husbandry, animal and human health, and livestock trading systems. The CLD was constructed using information from published literature, historical governmental reports, policy documents and media coverage regarding brucellosis in Jordan. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews with diverse stakeholders were conducted to elicit information on their understanding of critical factors associated with brucellosis. Results: The CLD demonstrated that brucellosis transmission in Jordan is driven by sheep husbandry practices like livestock movement/trading and the management of symptomatic animals (those suffering abortion). Five dimensions were identified to be associated with brucellosis transmission: human infection; consumers; traders and markets; and livestock infection and control. Conclusion: The development of a CLD to explain brucellosis transmission in Jordan provides a better understanding of and reveals the multi-sectoral nature of the problem. The need for a multi-sectoral approach for effective brucellosis management in Jordan is clear from the five dimensions identified.
Factors Affecting the Sweat-Drying Performance of Active Sportswear—A Review
Authors: Nasrin Surya , Mandal Sumit , Islam MD. Momtaz , Petrova Adriana , Agnew Robert J. , Boorady Lynn M.
Published: August 2023

Quick drying is one of the most crucial factors in the comfort and performance of active sportswear clothing. It helps to keep the wearer dry and comfortable by effectively wicking away sweat and moisture from the body. In the light of this, a substantial number of previous researchers have identified fabric properties and types that have a significant impact on fabric drying performance. Studies have also been conducted to examine the impact of fabric drying on human physiology during sports-related activities. However, there are still some technical knowledge gaps in the existing literature related to the drying performance of active sportswear fabrics. This review article provides a critical analysis of the literature on the impact of various fabric attributes as well as the physiological and environmental factors on moisture management and drying performance. The key issues in this field are determined so that future research can be directed and this scientific field can advance in order to improve the overall performance of active sportswear fabrics.
Environmental Health and Toxicology: Immunomodulation Promoted by Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Tributyltin
Authors: da Silva Ricardo Correia , Teixeira Mariana Pires , de Paiva Luciana Souza , Miranda-Alves Leandro
Published: August 2023

Tributyltin (TBT) is an environmental contaminant present on all continents, including Antarctica, with a potent biocidal action. Its use began to be intensified during the 1960s. It was effectively banned in 2003 but remains in the environment to this day due to several factors that increase its half-life and its misuse despite the bans. In addition to the endocrine-disrupting effect of TBT, which may lead to imposex induction in some invertebrate species, there are several studies that demonstrate that TBT also has an immunotoxic effect. The immunotoxic effects that have been observed experimentally in vertebrates using in vitro and in vivo models involve different mechanisms; mainly, there are alterations in the expression and/or secretion of cytokines. In this review, we summarize and update the literature on the impacts of TBT on the immune system, and we discuss issues that still need to be explored to fill the knowledge gaps regarding the impact of this endocrine-disrupting chemical on immune system homeostasis.
Assessing Lifetime Cancer Risk Associated with Population Exposure to PM-Bound PAHs and Carcinogenic Metals in Three Mid-Latitude Metropolitan Cities
Authors: Aldekheel Mohammad , Farahani Vahid Jalali , Sioutas Constantinos
Published: August 2023

Lifetime cancer risk characterization of ambient PM-bound carcinogenic metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were examined in the cities of Los Angeles (USA), Thessaloniki (Greece) and Milan (Italy), which share similar Mediterranean climates but are different in their urban emission sources and governing air quality regulations. The samples in Milan and Thessaloniki were mostly dominated by biomass burning activities whereas the particles collected in Los Angeles were primary impacted by traffic emissions. We analyzed the ambient PM2.5 mass concentration of Cadmium (Cd), Hexavalent Chromium (Cr(VI)), Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb), as well as 13 PAH compounds in the PM samples, collected during both cold and warm periods at each location. Pb exhibited the highest annual average concentration in all three cities, followed by Ni, As, Cr(VI), Cd and PAHs, respectively. The cancer risk assessment based on outdoor pollutants was performed based on three different scenarios, with each scenario corresponding to a different level of infiltration of outdoor pollutants into the indoor environment. Thessaloniki exhibited a high risk associated with lifetime inhalation of As, Cr(VI), and PAHs, with values in the range of (0.97–1.57) × 10−6, (1.80–2.91) × 10−6, and (0.77–1.25) × 10−6, respectively. The highest cancer risk values were calculated in Milan, exceeding the US EPA standard by a considerable margin, where the lifetime risk values of exposure to As, Cr(VI), and PAHs were in the range of (1.29–2.08) × 10−6, (6.08–9.82) × 10−6, and (1.10–1.77) × 10−6, respectively. In contrast, the estimated risks associated with PAHs and metals, except Cr(VI), in Los Angeles were extremely lower than the guideline value, even when the infiltration factor was assumed to be at peak. The lifetime cancer risk values associated with As, Cd, Ni, Pb, and PAHs in Los Angeles were in the range of (0.04–0.33) × 10−6. This observation highlights the impact of local air quality measures in improving the air quality and lowering the cancer risks in Los Angeles compared to the other two cities.