bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UV Map Nowcasting and Comparison with Ground-Based UV Measurements for the DACH Region 2022
Authors: Klotz Barbara , Gradl Regine , Schenzinger Verena , Schwarzmann Michael , Schreder Josef , Lorenz Sebastian , Gröbner Julian , Hülsen Gregor , Kreuter Axel
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a new method for nowcasting UV Index maps within the framework of the Austrian Solar UV Measurement Network. The primary objective is to improve public health measures by providing timely and area-wide UV Index values. The UV Index maps are based on clear-sky calculations using data from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service. Cloud effects are integrated using cloud modification factors determined from Meteosat Second Generation satellite imagery. To assess the representativeness of the calculated UV Index maps, the corresponding pixel values are compared to ground-based measurements of the year 2022 of 27 sites located in Germany, Austria and Switzerland (DACH region). A source of uncertainty in the comparison arises from the different measurement methods. Ground-based measurements reflect the UV Index in the immediate vicinity of the measurement device whereas the satellite-derived UV Index maps represent mean values over pixel-sized areas. For clear-sky conditions the most significant discrepancies occur at high-altitude sites with near-permanent snow cover, where surface albedo is not adequately represented by the satellite’s mean values. For all-sky conditions, cloudiness introduces additional uncertainties across all locations. Ground-based measurements can detect rapidly changing sun obstruction, whereas satellite-derived cloud information represents a single average value per pixel, lacking the resolution to identify sub-pixel variations. This effect is most prominent for sites located in complex terrain due to cloud climatology. This study emphasizes the potential of satellite data to inform public health initiatives, highlighting that the spatial representation of UV Index values from satellite data is a valuable complement to ground-based measurements.
Uncovering Protein Network in Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line Influenced by Hepatitis B Virus
Authors: Dey Indrashish , Das Anusmriti , Saha Soham , Chowdhury Abhijit , Datta Simanti , Banerjee Soma
Published: December 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the final sequel of prolonged chronic hepatitis B. Integrated networks among cancer cells and various stromal cells exist in the HCC tumor microenvironment (TME) and have a profound impact on the progression of this disease. Emerging evidence depicts that extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by the cells are the potent mediators in this partnership. These vesicles carry cell-specific active molecules such as protein, nucleic acids (DNA, coding and non-coding RNAs), lipids, etc. In this respect, the impact of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) on the packaging of cargo molecules of the infected hepatocytes and its effect on the disease progression has not been investigated. Thus, proteomics analysis was performed in triplicates with the EV protein content of HBV-infected HepG2.2.15, and HepG2-control cells using label-free LC-MS/MS technology and observed 2293 and 677 proteins respectively suggesting HBV-induced 3.4fold more accumulation of proteins in the EVs. Among these, 512 proteins were differentially enriched in the EVs of HepG2.2.15 cells. Pathway analysis performed with 103 proteins which showed intracellular abundance depicted that DNA repair, RNA metabolism, and Golgi trafficking proteins were enriched in the EVs of HepG2.2.15 cells. Protein-protein network and Hub gene analysis identified 10 nodal proteins that could interact with all other proteins in the network. Subsequently, integrated transcription factor (TF)-mRNA- miRNA network analysis and validation revealed that most hub genes were commonly transcriptionally activated by TFDP1-TF. At the same time, miR-1-3p suppressed their expression, suggesting their importance in developing cancer therapeutics.
Exploring Queuing Models to Calculate Journey Times to Develop an Intelligent Transportsystem for Smart Cities
Authors: Mehta Vatsal , Mapp Glenford , Gandhi Vaibhav
Published: December 2024

There is now a growing interest in the development of Smart Cities. These cities will provide ubiquitous communication, intelligent transport systems, advanced digital health platforms and urban and infrastructure management. Intelligent Transport Systems will be realised through the emergence and deployment of Satellite Navigation Systems, Vehicular Networking and Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, and should result in less congestion, shorter journey times and a significantly reduced number of road deaths. These new systems allow much more information about vehicles in transit to become available in real-time, including the source and destination of a journey, measurements from vehicles, and the state of the road infrastructure. Such detailed information will allow better analysis of journeys and routes. What is needed are new analytical models to use this information to build more accurate journey times. This paper addresses these issues. A journey is defined as the traversal of several road links and junctions from the source to the destination. The delay at junctions is analysed using the Zero-Server Markov Chain technique. This is then combined with the Jackson Network to analyse the delay across multiple junctions. The delay on road links is analysed using an M/M/K/K model. This approach was used to analyse a real scenario, and the results were validated using a SUMO simulation. The increased accuracy of this model will lead to much better traffic congestion algorithms for Intelligent Transport Systems for Smart Cities.
Predictive Analysis and Optimization in Sustainable Agriculture Facing Climate Change with Emerging Technological Approaches
Authors: Turpo Mamani Luz Magaly
Published: December 2024

This paper analyses recent advances in predictive models applied to assessing the impact of climate change on sustainable agriculture and reviews optimization techniques, statistical models and emerging technologies. Through a review of 15 studies between 2013 and 2024, predictive techniques were identified to improve yields and manage resources such as water and fertilizers. The results show that most studies on sustainable agriculture focus on predictive models, followed by historical combinations and reviews, reflecting the interest in using data to improve sustainability. It also highlights the use of emerging technologies such as IoT, AI, Big Data and Blockchain, together with optimization techniques and statistical models, to improve efficiency and adaptation in agriculture to climate and production changes. It concludes that these technologies are essential to strengthen food security and agricultural resilience in the face of an uncertain climate environment.
A Comprehensive Solution for the Safety and Controllability of Artificial Superintelligence
Authors: Wang Weibing
Published: December 2024

As artificial intelligence technology rapidly advances, it is likely to implement Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Artificial Superintelligence (ASI) in the future. The highly intelligent ASI systems could be manipulated by malicious humans or independently evolve goals misaligned with human interests, potentially leading to severe harm or even human extinction. To mitigate the risks posed by ASI, it is imperative that we implement measures to ensure its safety and controllability. This paper analyzes the intellectual characteristics of ASI, and three conditions for ASI to cause catastrophes (harmful goals, concealed intentions, and strong power), and proposes a comprehensive safety solution. The solution includes three risk prevention strategies (AI alignment, AI monitoring, and power security) to eliminate the three conditions for AI to cause catastrophes. It also includes four power balancing strategies (decentralizing AI power, decentralizing human power, restricting AI development, and enhancing human intelligence) to ensure equilibrium between AI to AI, AI to human, and human to human, building a stable and safe society with human-AI coexistence. Based on these strategies, this paper proposes 11 major categories, encompassing a total of 47 specific safety measures. For each safety measure, detailed methods are designed, and an evaluation of its benefit, cost, and resistance to implementation is conducted, providing corresponding priorities. Furthermore, to ensure effective execution of these safety measures, a governance system is proposed, encompassing international, national, and societal governance, ensuring coordinated global efforts and effective implementation of these safety measures within nations and organizations, building safe and controllable AI systems which bring benefits to humanity rather than catastrophes.
Characterization of a Novel Birnavirus Strain Isolated from Mandarin Fish (Siniperca chuatsi)
Authors: Zhang Hetong , Zhou Dandan , Dong Junjian , Yan Yunyun , Liu Shanshan , Ye Xing , He Jianguo , Sun Chengfei
Published: December 2024

Birnaviruses infect a wide range of hosts, including economically important fish species. In this study, we report the isolation and characterization of a novel birnavirus, named mandarin fish birnavirus (MFBV). We obtained the full-length sequence of the MFBV genome. The segment A is 3539 bp, and the segment B is 2719 bp in length. Phylogenetic analyses revealed its close relation-ship with Largemouth bass birnavirus (LBBV) and Lates calcarifer birnavirus (LCBV) of the Birnaviridae family. Further, characterization of MFBV revealed its rapid replication kinetics that replication cycle is about 8-10 hours in mandarin fish kidney cells. Both intraperitoneal in-jection and immersion infection routes resulted in severe symptoms in juvenile or fry fish. Mortal-ity was occured within one day post-infection (dpi), with cumulative mortality rates ranging from 41.8% to 83.6% depending on the challenge method. Notably, compared to juvenile fish, fry fish exhibited higher susceptibility to infection. Viral RNA copies in multiple tissues ranged from the highest of 107.9 to the lowest of 106.9 per μg total RNA revealed that MFBV has a broad tissue tropism. Histopathological examination showed characteristic lesions, including villus damage in the intestine, necrosis in the spleen and kidney cells. MFBV was most sensitive to glutaralde-hyde, with a final concentration of 20 ppm resulting in an 8 log-unit reduction in titer. While povidone-iodine, formaldehyde, sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, and potassium per-manganate required concentrations in the 10³ ppm range to achieve similar efficacy. The half-life of the virus during different phase was 36.5 hours to 144.5 hours.
Enhancing SOC: Wazuh Security Event Response with RAG-Driven Copilot
Authors: Ismail FNU , Kurnia Rahmat , Widyatama Farid , Wibawa Ilham Mirwansyah , Brata Zilmas Arjuna , Ukasyah FNU , Nelistiani Ghitha Afina , Kim Howon
Published: December 2024

Cyber threats are growing increasingly sophisticated, Security Operations Centers (SOCs) require more efficient and intelligent response tools to manage and mitigate incidents effectively. In response, organizations have adopted comprehensive frameworks to enhance their cybersecurity postures, notably the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity and MITRE’s ATT&CK framework. However, the process of effectively mitigating and responding by mapping the frameworks derived from real-time security events remains challenging. To address this, we developed a Security Event Response Copilot (SERC) which guides security analysts in order to respond and mitigate security breaches more effectively. The SERC consists of two components that are Security Event Data Extraction using Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) methods, and LLM-based Incident Response Guidance. Those systems were integrated with Wazuh as a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) platform to capture the security events on targeted endpoints. By combining Wazuh’s monitoring capabilities with the structured intelligence of MITRE ATT&CK, this system identifies adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) relevant to security events, while NIST standards ensure adherence to best practices in incident handling. Utilizing the RAG approach, the Copilot retrieves context-specific information from historical and real-time data sources, enhancing the generation of actionable insights and response recommendations. The RAG data sources were clustered into 3 database vector collections that are (1) incident response general knowledge, providing various information across cybersecurity platform; (2) NIST cybersecurity-related framework (CSF) 2.0 which offers a lifecycle approach to managing cybersecurity issues; and (3) MITRE ATT&CK framework to identify the tactics and techniques associated with the incident. The complementary use of NIST's strategic breadth and MITRE’s tactical detail allows organizations to build a multi-layered defense that integrates high-level risk management with actionable intelligence. To this end, we conducted end-to-end simulation and evaluated RAG performance output using the semantic coherence method. Alongside this, we also measure the end-to-end task completion rate. Overall, this research amplifies the potential of combining structured threat intelligence frameworks and powerful AI models to meet the dynamic needs of SOCs in a rapidly changing cybersecurity environment.
On Limitations to Conceptual Knowledge in Kantian Categories and Postmodernist Philosophy
Authors: Penzance Isaac
Published: December 2024

Chalmers’ Constructing the World offers an exploration into complete bodies of information – for which he proposes that an entity such as Laplace’s Demon has a scrutable interpretation over available information. However, Chalmers does not address a true realisation of what a complete knowledge should be; Laplace’s Demon remains very much human. This article further suggests that information is limited – specifically in a post-modernist framework – because the limited number of perceptible differences (known as Categories) reduces the scale of differences such that the information converges into a common limitation.
Dipolar Brush Polymers: A Numerical Study of the Force Exerted onto a Penetrating Colloidal Particle Under an External Field
Authors: Fuster-Aparisi A. , Cerrato Antonio , Batle Josep , Cerdà Joan Josep
Published: December 2024

Langevin Dynamics numerical simulations have been used to compute the force profiles that dipolar polymer brushes exert onto a penetrating colloidal particle. It has been observed that force profiles are strongly influenced by external applied fields: a force barrier at large distances from the grafting surface appears, and at shorter distances a region with lower repulsive forces develops. Furthermore, for a right combination of polymer grafting density, polymer chain length and strength of the external field, it is possible to observe in such intermediate region the existence of net attractive forces onto the penetrating particle, and the emergence of a stationary point. The existence of these regions of low repulsive or net attractive forces inside the dipolar brushes, as well as their dependence on the different parameters of the system can be qualitatively reasoned in terms of a competition between steric repulsion forces and Kelvin forces arising from the dipolar mismatch between different regions of the system. The possibility to tune force profile features such as force barriers and stationary points via an external field paves the way for many potential surface-particle related applications.
Insights from Real-World Evidence on the Use of Inhalers in Clinical Practice
Authors: Calle Rubio Myriam , Adami Teppa Pedro José , Rodríguez Hermosa Juan Luis , García Carro Miriam , Tallón Martínez José Carlos , Riesco Rubio Consolación , Fernández Cortés Laura , Morales Dueñas María , Chamorro del Barrio Valeria , Sánchez-del Hoyo Rafael , García Aragón Jorge
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Despite the ongoing innovations and the availability of numerous effective inhaled treatment options, achieving optimal disease control in most patients remains frequently disappointing. Unfortunately, although inhaled therapy is the cornerstone of respiratory disease management, the selection of the most appropriate inhaler is still overlooked or underestimated by some healthcare professionals, and inhaler misuse remains a significant challenge in managing chronic respiratory diseases, which impacts directly disease outcomes. Objectives/methods: In this real-world study, we investigate the most prescribed inhalers for both ambulatory and hospitalized patients, their associated critical inhaler use and treatment adherence, the frequency of inhaler switches after hospitalization, and the factors associated with these changes. Results: In our cohort of patients, we observed a high prevalence of critical inhaler errors, independently of good inhaler-handling knowledge. Most patients with a history of at-home inhaler use showed a maximum peak inspiratory flow (PIF)≥30 L/min, suggesting they were more likely to benefit from using dry powdered inhalers (DPIs). Despite the high rate of critical inhaler errors, only a small proportion of patients switched their inhaler type after hospitalization, being these changes predominantly associated to the type of therapy prescribed, regardless of patient misuse, compliance, or adherence to treatment. Conclusions: Our study highlights the urgent need for a more personalized inhaler selection and consistent monitoring by healthcare professionals to minimize inhaler misuse, increase treatment compliance and adherence, and improve disease management outcomes.
Low-Density Lipoprotein Subfraction Phenotype is Associated with Epicardial Adipose Tissue Volume in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Rives Jose , Gil-MIllan Pedro , Vilades Medel David , García-Osuna Álvaro , Genua Idoia , Miñambres Inka , Grau-Agramunt Margarida , Gich Ignasi , Puig Núria , Benitez Sonia , Julve Josep , Pérez Antonio , José Luis Sanchez-Quesada
Published: December 2024

Background: Increased epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) volume is a common feature in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) which is directly associated with heart failure and advanced atherosclerosis. We aimed to evaluate lipoprotein-related biomarkers of EAT volume in T2DM patients before and after glycemic control. Methods: This study included 36 T2DM patients before and after optimization of glycemic control and on 14 healthy controls (HCs). EAT volume was measured using computed tomography imaging indexed to the body surface area (iEAT). Biochemical and lipid profiles were determined using commercial methods. Lipoproteins were isolated by ultracentrifugation, and variables of lipoprotein function were assessed. Multivariable regression analysis was used to find variables independently associated with iEAT. Results: iEAT was higher in T2DM than in controls and decreased with glycemic optimization. HDLs from T2DM had less apoA-I and cholesterol and more apoC-III and triglycerides. LDLs from T2DM had more triglycerides and apoB and smaller sizes than those from HCs. Significant correlations were found between iEAT and age, BMI, HbA1c, GGT, VLDLc, triglycerides, LDL size, apoA-I in HDL, and apoC-III in HDL. In the multivariable regression analysis, age, LDL size, and GGT associations remained statistically significant, and predicted 50% of the variability in EAT volume. ROC analysis using these variables showed an AUC of 0.835. Conclusions: Qualitative characteristics of lipoproteins were altered in T2DM. Multivariable analysis showed that LDL size and GGT plasma levels were independently associated with iEAT volume, suggesting that these variables might be useful biomarkers for stratifying T2DM patients with increased EAT volume.
Properties of “Stable” Mosquito Cytochrome P450 Enzymes
Authors: Tzotzos George
Published: December 2024

The use of insecticides is widespread in the control of debilitating mosquito-borne diseases. P450 enzymes (CYPs) play essential roles in mosquito physiological function but also in the enzymatic detoxification of xenobiotics. Broadly speaking, CYPs can be classified as “stable”, meaning those that have no or very few paralogs, and “labile” constituting gene families with many paralogous members. The evolutionary dichotomy between “stable” and “labile” P450 genes is fuzzy and there is not a clear phylogenetic demarcation between P450s involved in detoxification and P450s involved in essential metabolic processes. In this study, bioinformatic methods were used to ex-plore differences in the sequences of “stable” and “labile” P450s that may facilitate their func-tional classification. Genomic and sequence data of Anopheles gambiae (Agam), Aedes aegypti (Aaeg) and Culex quinquefasciatus (Cqui) CYPs were obtained from public databases. The results of this study show that “stable” CYPs are encoded by longer genes, have longer introns and more exons, and contain a higher proportion of hydrophobic amino acids than “labile” CYPs. Com-pared to “labile” CYPs, a significantly higher proportion of “stable” CYPs are associated with biosynthetic and developmental processes.
The Critical Role of Autophagy and Phagocytosis in the Aging Brain
Authors: Bondy Stephen
Published: December 2024

As the organism ages, there is a decline in effective energy supply and this retards the ability to elaborate new proteins. The consequences of this are is especially marked in the gradual decline of brain function. The senescence of cells and their constituent organelles is ultimately the cause of aging of the entire nervous system. What is less immediately obvious is that brain aging is also accompanied by failure of catabolic events that lead to removal of non-functional cells and ineffective subcellular components. The removal of non-working cellular and subcellular elements within the brain is essential in order to allow the appearance of fresh cells and organelles with a full range of capacities. Thus, maintenance of operative mechanisms of dispersal of failed tissue components is important and its diminished capacity with aging is a significant contributory factor to the onset and progression of age-related neurological disorder. This report discusses the mechanisms underlying autophagy and phagocytosis and how these can be adversely modulated as aging proceeds. Means by which the effective recycling of cellular components may be reinstated in the aged brain are considered.
Enhancing Quality of Life: Key Factors from Long-Term Social Care Residents’ Perspectives
Authors: Borovika Agrita , Moors Martins , Zolovs Maksims
Published: December 2024

Abstract. The purpose of the study was to investigate the most important factors shaping the quality of life in a social care institution from the clients' perspective. Study examines factors beyond direct care that affect the quality of life for clients in social care institutions, focusing on Riga Municipality Social Care Center “Gailezers”. Structured interviews with 95 clients assessed six domains: autonomy, relationships, activities, environment, food, and care quality. The study emphasizes the need to align services with clients' views to enhance their well-being. Based on the results, the study aimed to develop practical proposals for adjusting the content and organization of social care services to better align with the clients' understanding of the factors affecting their quality of life in the institution.
Genome-Wide Characterization of Wholly Disordered Proteins in Arabidopsis
Authors: Long Wenfen , Zhao Liang , Yang Huimin , Yang Xinyi , Bai Yulong , Xue Xiuhua , Wang Doudou , Han Shengcheng
Published: December 2024

Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) include two types of proteins: one contains partial disordered regions (IDRs), the other is wholly disordered proteins (WDPs). Extensive studies focused on the proteins with IDRs, but less is known about WDPs because of their difficult to form the folded tertiary structure. In this study, we developed a bioinformatics method for screening WDPs more than 50 amino acids in the genome level and found a total of 27 categories including 56 WDPs in Arabidopsis. After comparing with randomly selected 56 structural proteins, we found that WDPs possessed more wide range of theoretical isoelectric point (PI), more negative of Grand Average of Hydropathicity (GRAVY), higher value of Instability Index (II) and lower values of Aliphatic Index (AI). In addition, by calculating the FCR (fraction of charged residue) and NCPR (net charge per residue) values of each WDP, we found twenty WDPs in R1 (FCR < 0.25 & NCPR < 0.25) group, fifteen in R2 (0.25 ≤ FCR ≤ 0.35 & NCPR ≤ 0.35), nineteen in R3 (FCR > 0.35 & NCPR ≤ 0.35), and two in R4 (FCR > 0.35 & NCPR > 0.35). Moreover, the gene expression and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis showed that WDPs perform different biological functions. We also showed that two WDPs, SIS (Salt Induced Serine rich) and RAB18 (a dehydrin family protein) undergo the in vitro liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). Therefore, our results provide insight into understanding the biochemical characters and biological functions of WDPs in plants.
On the Horizontal Divergence Asymmetry in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Zhou Tianshu , Xie Jin-Han , Balwada Dhruv
Published: December 2024

Due to the geostrophic balance, horizontal divergence-free is often assumed when analyzing large-scale oceanic flows. However, the geostrophic balance is a leading-order approximation. We investigate the statistical feature of weak horizontal compressibility in the Gulf of Mexico by analyzing drifter data (the Grand LAgrangian Deployment (GLAD) experiment and the LAgrangian Submesoscale ExpeRiment (LASER)) based on the asymptotic probability density function of the angle between velocity and acceleration difference vectors in a strain-dominant model. The results reveal a notable divergence at scales between 10 km and 300 km, which is stronger in winter (LASER) than in summer (GLAD). We conjecture that the divergence is induced by wind stress with its curl parallel to the earth’s rotation.
Computer Model of an IoT Decision-Making Network for Detecting the Probability of Crop Diseases
Authors: Diachenko Grygorii , Laktionov Ivan , Vovna Oleksandr , Aleksieiev Oleksii , Moroz Dmytro
Published: December 2024

This article is devoted to the development and testing of a computer model of an IoT system based on a combination of wireless network technologies and aimed at implementing online monitoring of the soil and climatic condition of agricultural productions with decision-making support for the management of agrotechnical processes by predicting the probability of crop diseases. The object of the research is the processes of aggregation, wireless transmission and processing of soil and climatic measurement data in infocommunication software and hardware solutions. The results of the research are a contribution of both scientific and practical importance, focusing on the development of the computer model based on wireless sensor networks and edge-computing technologies, designed for aggregation and intelligent processing of agricultural monitoring data to predict the probability of agricultural crop diseases. The developed software component of the computer model based on ANFIS was integrated into the microcontroller unit of the IoT systems intended for use in agriculture. This approach enabled substantiation of the optimized structural and algorithmic organization of the IoT system, which can be used in the designing and implementation of reliable computing architectures of software and hardware solutions for monitoring systems in open fields with decision-making support.
Implementation of MS Circle Map in Digital Image Encryption
Authors: Mursidah Ichsani , MT Suryadi , Madenda Sarifuddin , Harmanto Suryadi
Published: December 2024

Digital data protection is important to prevent changes and manipulation of digital data by unauthorized parties. Reliable, secure and fast digital data security techniques are needed. One such technique is the use of cryptography. This paper discusses the implementation of MS Circle Map in cryptography for data security. The object used in this study is a digital image. Encryption algorithms that use chaos functions to secure digital data must have a high key space and fast processing time. This research was conducted by designing an algorithm for encryption and decryption and then implementing it with Python programming. The MS Circle function has six parameters (x0,r, λ, K, Ω, t) to obtain a sufficiently high key space 1.889×101,267 1.889×101,267combination and has a key sensitivity level of 10-16. The MS Circle Map function has high resistance to various attacks. This is evidenced by the results from the key space, initial value sensitivity test, goodness of fit test, entropy, correlation coefficient, NPCR test, UACI test and image quality test. Based on the tests carried out, it was found that the MS Circle Map algorithm successfully resisted brute force, statistical, and differential attacks. The results of image quality tests using MSE and PSNR showed that the digital image decryption stage was successful and the original image could be restored.
Comparing Paid and Diamond Open Access: Metrics from Engineering Journals
Authors: Pilatti Luís Eduardo , Pilatti Luiz Alberto , Carvalho Gustavo Dambiski Gomes de , Resende Luis Mauricio Martins de
Published: December 2024

This study investigates and compares Open Access journals charging Article Processing Charges (APC) and Diamond Open Access journals in Engineering, indexed in Scopus. It analyzes metrics like CiteScore, citations, published articles, and the percentage of cited articles from 2020 to 2023, categorized by quartiles (Q1–Q4) and the top 10%. The dataset includes 757 journals: 504 APC-charging and 253 Diamond, representing only 8.4% of active journals in this field. Findings indicate that APC journals have higher averages in CiteScore and citations, particularly in Q1 and top 10%, although they show more significant variability. Diamond journals display consistency in relative metrics and surpass APC journals in the percentage of cited articles within the top 10%. Additionally, APC fees are highest in top-tier quartiles, posing accessibility challenges for less-funded researchers. Despite these differences, both models play complementary roles, balancing impact and accessibility. The results highlight the need for inclusive policies to strengthen Diamond Open Access while acknowledging the visibility advantages of APC models. These findings provide a foundation for future research and editorial strategies in scientific publishing, particularly in Engineering, while suggesting paths to achieve equity and sustainability in Open Access dissemination.
Clinical Impact of Olaparib for Platinum-Sensitive Recurrent Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Ishida Hiroaki , Manrai Megumi , Takashima Akiko , Egashira Hiroki , Nonaka Mizuki , Shimada Hideaki
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Olaparib, a poly ADP ribose polymerase [A1] inhibitor, has been effective in prolonging progression-free survival in platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer. The clinicopathological factors to predict a favorable prognosis remain unclear. Therefore, we retrospectively analyzed the prognostic effect of clinicopathological factors in the patients treated with olaparib for platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer.Methods: A total of 16 patients were treated with olaparib from 2018 to 2023. We categorized these patients into the responder (5 cases who had not relapsed within 2 years) and non-responder groups (11 cases who had relapsed within 2 years). Clinical factors, age, number of platinum drug courses, platinum-free interval, and CA125 value before olaparib treatment, were compared between the responder and non-responder groups.Results: The age of the responder group was significantly younger than that of the non-responder group (52 vs. 69 years old, P = 0.02). CA125 value of the responder group was significantly lower than that of the non-responder group (14.2 vs. 82.7 U/ml, P = 0.02).Conclusion: The good predictive factors that enabled continued olaparib administration without recurrence were younger age and a lower CA125 value before olaparib treatment. The younger group (<65 years old) and the low CA125 value group (<20 U/ml) in PSR may be treated with olaparib for a long period and suppress disease progression. Providing this information to patients with PSR may help in decision-making regarding performing maintenance therapy with olaparib.
Effects of Different Rates of Nitrogen Fertilisation and Measures to Increase the Nitrogen Use Efficiency on Yield Structure Elements in Maize
Authors: Liakas Vytautas , Marcinkevičienė Aušra , Rudinskienė Aušra , Steponavičienė Vaida
Published: December 2024

The field experiment was carried out at the Vytautas Magnus University Experimental Station (54°52′N, 23°49′E) in 2020, 2021 and 2022. The soil used for the field experiment was PLb-g4 Endohipogleyic-Eutric Planasol. The research aimed to investigate the effects of different nitrogen fertilisation rates and biological preparations on yield structure elements and partial factor productivity of nitrogen in maize (Zea mays L.) grown for grain production. The factors studied were: factor A – nitrogen (N) fertiliser rates: 1) 100 kg ha-1, 2) 140 kg ha-1, 3) 180 kg ha-1; Factor B – use of bio-fertilisers: 1) No biological preparations (BP) used, 2) Biological preparation AB, 3) Biological preparations AB+C, 4) Biological preparations AB+H. The research showed that the yield of maize grain was significantly increased not only by increasing the rates of nitrogen fertilization but also by using biological preparations. The highest maize grain yield (11.5 t ha-1) was obtained in 2020 using N180 fertilisation in combination with biological preparations AB+H. In all cases, the biological preparations and their combinations significantly increased the maize grain yield compared to the control field (no use of BP). The biological preparations in combination with N significantly increased the weight of 1000 grains and thus the grain yield per plant. The highest maize grain yield per plant (154.6 g) was obtained in 2020 using N180 fertilisation in combination with biological preparations AB+H. In most cases, positive, strong, very strong and statistically significant correlations were observed between the different rates of nitrogen fertilisation and the indicators studied: r = 0.76–0.94 (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). No statistically significant correlation was found between nitrogen fertilisation rates and the number of grains per cob (P > 0.05). The highest partial factor productivity of nitrogen fertiliser (92.0 kg of maize kg-1 of N) was obtained in 2020 using N100 fertilisation in combination with AB+H. Increasing the nitrogen fertiliser rates and not using biological preparations resulted in a decrease in the partial factor productivity of nitrogen fertiliser.
Could Sarcopenia be Related to Chemotherapy in Gastrointestinal Cancer? A Cross-Sectional Study Including Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment
Authors: Silay Kamile , Ucar Gokhan , Eren Tulay , Selvi Oztorun Hande , Yazici Ozan , Özdemir Nuriye
Published: December 2024

Background: Sarcopenia is characterized by progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function. Studies have demonstrated the adverse effects of sarcopenia on cancer outcomes. Our aim in this study was to examine whether sarcopenia developed in patients with gastrointestinal cancer receiving chemotherapy treatment and whether their condition changed compared to before chemotherapy. We also wanted to investigate whether chemotherapy affected comprehensive geriatric assessment among older participants. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 351 patients diagnosed with gastrointestinal system cancer from October 2018 to December 2019. Measurements were taken before and after chemotherapy. Out of the initial sample, 243 patients participated in the post-chemotherapy measurement. Sarcopenia was determined based on the criteria set by the European Sarcopenia in Older People Working Group in 2018. For patients ≥65 years old, a comprehensive geriatric assessment was conducted. Results: The median age of 243 patients was 57.84. The female gender ratio was 31.7%. 29.2% of the participants were 65 years and older. There was a significant increase in the rate of sarcopenia after chemotherapy. The study revealed significant associations between toxicity and certain factors such as female gender .248 (p = .002), decreased hand grip strength -.264 (p < .001), and reduced gait speed 222 (p = .007). Conclusion: This study highlights the potential link between chemotherapy and sarcopenia in patients with gastrointestinal malignancies. Detecting sarcopenia early on and implementing intervention strategies are crucial for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Evaluation of dietary oyster mushroom on intestinal histology, growth performance, and immuno-serological parameters of juvenile rainbow trout
Authors: Baba Esin , Uluköy Gülşen
Published: December 2024

In this study, the effects of nutritional supplementation with oyster mushroom extract on the nonspecific immune response, gut histology, and growth performance of rainbow trout were investigated. Sixty fish (weighing 20 g) were placed in tank groups, and groups were established. The control fish were fed with commercial pellets, and the other two experimental group fish were fed with experimental diets containing oyster mushroom extracts for six weeks. During the trial, biometrical, immunological, and biochemical parameters were assessed in one, two, three, four, five, and six weeks. Also, gut samples were taken at the same sampling weeks. The intracellular respiratory burst, bactericidal activity, total protein, and globulin were significantly enhanced in fish fed 2% experimental diet in three, four, five, and six weeks. Compared to the control group, the fish group which received 2% supplemented diet showed elevated cholesterol levels in serum at the first week followed by decrease in the third and sixth weeks. Some biochemical parameters (glucose, albumin, and triglycerides) were not affected. Moreover, the feeding with dietary extract did not show any negative impact on the histology of the gut and growth performance of fish. These results indicated oyster mushroom extract may effectively enhance non-specific immune parameters in juvenile rainbow trout.
Complex Deformation Design of Continuum Robot Driven by Few Actuators with Optimized Tendon Path
Authors: Yoshikawa Daiki , Iwamoto Noriyasu , Umedachi Takuya
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a method for designing the 3D deformable shape of a continuum robot based on genetic algorithm optimization for the arrangement of tendon guides. We introduce plain and penetration models that are classified based on tendon configurations. A combination of these models produces 3D deformations. Optimizing the arrangement of the tendon guides extends the behavior of the prototype by providing a distribution in its curvature. We designed a model to simulate the deformed shape of the prototype and used a genetic algorithm to determine the optimal solution for the parameters to be mathematically suited to the given shapes. Additionally, we built prototypes using the applied parameters and demonstrated them experimentally. We also verified the continuum robots with optimized parameters by comparing them with pre-optimized parameters. The results of this study can contribute to improving the dexterity and versatility of the movements of continuum and biomimetic robots using only a few actuators.
Shape Estimation of Snake Robot Using Extended Kalman Filter and Automatic Propulsion in Piping by Helicoidal Rolling Motion Considering Helix Pitch
Authors: Tada Yuki , Kamegawa Tetsushi
Published: December 2024

This study describes a method for applying an extended Kalman filter to a snake robot, which moves through a pipe using a helicoidal rolling motion. The filter estimates the helix radius, amount of twisting, and helix pitch to adapt to changes in the diameter inside the pipe. Additionally, offset values are added to these estimated values to propel the snake robot along the pipe autonomously. In particular, we experimentally demonstrated the effect of helix pitch on friction force and proposed a parameter-setting strategy that accounts for the range of motion of the joints. Finally, we validated the results of the proposed method through experiments on an actual robot.
Knot Tying, Hanging, and Transporting Motions of Snake Robots by Utilizing Half-Hitch Knot
Authors: Ishikawa Yuki , Nakajima Mizuki , Tanaka Motoyasu
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a hanging motion for snake robots by utilizing half-hitch knot tying, which is a type of rope work. The proposed method prevents a robot from falling off a pipe by tying it to the pipe. In addition, the robot can hang from a pipe by grasping it using the knotting part. The parts other than the knotting part can be operated arbitrarily and applied to various actions. We propose a transporting motion as one of the applications of the hanging motion. The effectiveness of the proposed motion was experimentally verified using an actual robot.
Bio-Inspired Undulatory Locomotion Control Strategy for Novel Soft Robot Based on Auxetic Structures
Authors: Sharma Shreyas , Goto Takaya , Harada Hiroyuki
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a novel locomotion soft robot that exploits the properties of auxetic structures to achieve bio-inspired undulatory locomotion. To reduce the dependence on computation and control strategies, we propose to develop a soft structure using a combination of positive Poisson’s ratio lattice structure and negative Poisson’s ratio lattice structure that creates a dorsoventral undulating wave pattern under compressive load. This is combined with a laterally undulating gait pattern exhibited by giant salamanders. The soft structure is actuated with nylon cables attached to servo motors, mimicking muscles. We use finite element analysis (FEA) methods to accurately model the soft structure’s deflection pattern, which is then used to create a control strategy for the robot. We develop a mathematical model and a subsequent gait pattern based on the sequential actuation of the nylon cables. The gait was experimentally tested and further improved with closed-loop error compensation. The research proves linear locomotion is possible through the proposed design with the lowest computational requirements.
Grasping of Cylindrical Structures Using an Underwater Snake Robot Without Force/Torque Sensors and Actuator Waterproofing
Authors: Kakogawa Atsushi , Rajendrakumar Shah Darshankumar , Iwasaki Yuto
Published: December 2024

This paper presents an underwater snake robot composed of submersible actuators designed for minimal friction, a lubricant-free gear reducer, and no waterproof sealing. This makes it suitable for direct exposure to water. In particular, this paper focuses on underwater interactive tasks with an object. Static force analysis for straightforward tasks, such as the wrapping of a pole structure, is conducted. Experiments were performed to evaluate the snake robot outside a water environment. The results indicated that the static model was valid, although the errors were not negligible. The potential of executing various tasks with this sensorless underwater snake robot, such as wrapping around the pole and its collection or turning on/off a lever underwater, is presented.
Development of Automated Display Shelf System for New Purchasing Experience by Dynamic Product Layout Changes
Authors: Seki Masashi , Wada Kazuyoshi , Tomizawa Tetsuo
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a micro-logistics node as a new infrastructure envisioned for future convenience stores. This system automates the management of products on shelves, reduces the workload on store clerks, and provides an entirely new shopping experience with optimal displays based on the time and customers visiting the store. Automated warehouse technology has recently advanced, and the storage and removal of items from warehouse racks have been successfully automated. However, when considering implementation in convenience stores, robotic systems must adapt to their unique conditions: operation in limited backyard space, handling a wide variety of products with different sizes and shapes, and minimization of dead space in product displays. To address these challenges, this study developed a robot system that travels on vertical and horizontal tracks installed behind display shelves, and places products stored in special trays at any coordinate on the shelves.
TRADE CHARACTERISTICS OF CHERRY FRUITS AFTER STORAGE
Authors: Ivanova Iryna , Serdyuk Marina , Voitsekhivskyi Volodymyr , Martirosyan Irina
Published: December 2024

The article focuses attention on carrying out commodity evaluation of cherry fruits after storage with various methods of pre-cooling. Cherry fruits of three model varieties of different ripening periods were used for the study: Valerii Chkalov, Melitopol'ska chorna, Krupnoplidna. Fruits were collected at the consumer stage of ripeness. The quality of the fruits met the standard requirements of SSTU 8153:2015 Fresh cherries. Specifications. Immediately after harvesting, the fruits were inspected, sorted and calibrated and packed in bulk in plastic boxes of 10 kg each. Pre-cooling of fruits was carried out directly after their collection by passive air method, intensive air method, hydrocooling, combined method. The essence of the combined method is to carry out cooling in two stages: first with ice water (1.0±0.5°С) with the addition of lactic and acetic acids to a temperature inside the fruit of 4±1°С, then – in intensive cooling chambers with cold air ( 0±1°С) with a movement speed of 3.0 m/s to a temperature of 2±0.5°С. Cherries were stored at a temperature of 1...2 ºС, relative air humidity of 90...95%. As a result of research, it was established that the total minimum amount of standard products after 40 days of storage was recorded in batches of cherries of all varieties after slow cooling. With the intensive method, the yield of standard products after 40 days of storage was 5%, hydrocooling – 14%, and the combined cooling method – 15% times higher, compared to slow cooling. The smallest amount of technical defects and absolute waste after 40 days of storage was recorded in batches of cherries cooled by the combined method. It is shown that the pre-cooling of cherries by the developed combined method before subsequent storage ensures the maximum preservation of marketable indicators and the high biological value of the fruits.