bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life Satisfaction, Courage, and Career Adaptability in a Group of Italian Workers
Authors: Santilli Sara , Valbusa Isabella , Rinaldi Barbara , Ginevra Maria Cristina
Published: February 2024

Today’s work market is both unsteady and unpredictable, and this requires taking urgent and practical actions aiming at creating work opportunities and “better” jobs, promoting a social and solidarity economy, and encouraging the development of moral strength in the workplace. From the Life Design approach perspective, our study examines two variables necessary to cope with the current labor market, courage, and career adaptability, and their role in life satisfaction. Through courage, a full mediational model between life satisfaction and career adaptability was tested in the 525 (291 men and 234 women) employees involved in the present study. Results support the mediational model. Mainly, life satisfaction was predicted indirectly by career adaptability through courage. Such outcome has important implications for practice and highlights the need to support workers in planning their life design by developing career adaptability and workers’ voluntary feeling to act, according to different levels of fear, when facing a threat to the achievement of a significant result or objective, which in turn will positively influence their feelings of life satisfaction.
Sensitivity Analysis of Start Point of Extreme Daily Rainfall Using CRHUDA and Stochastic Models
Authors: Muñoz-Mandujano Martin , Gutierrez-Lopez Alfonso , Acuña-Garcia Jose Alfredo , Ibarra-Corona Mauricio Arturo , Aguilar Isaac Carpintero , Vargas-Diaz José Alejandro
Published: February 2024

Forecasting extreme precipitation is one of the basic actions of warning systems in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). With thousands of economic losses and severe damage caused by floods in urban areas, hydrometeorological monitoring is a priority in most countries in the LAC region. The monitoring of convective precipitation, cold fronts, and hurricane tracks are the most demanded technological developments for early warning systems in the region. However, predicting and forecasting the onset time of extreme precipitation is a subject of life-saving scientific research. Developed in 2019, the CRHUDA (Crossing HUmidity, Dew point, and Atmospheric pressure) model provides insight into the onset of precipitation from the Clausius–Clapeyron relationship. With access to a historical database of more than 600 storms, the CRHUDA model provides a prediction with a precision of six to eight hours in advance of storm onset. However, the calibration is complex given the addition of ARMA(p,q)-type models for real-time forecasting. This paper presents the calibration of the joint CRHUDA+ARMA(p,q) model. It is concluded that CRHUDA is significantly more suitable and relevant for the forecast of precipitation and a possible future development for an early warning system (EWS).
Emotions of Educators Conducting Emergency Remote Teaching during COVID-19 Confinement
Authors: Garitano Eneko Tejada , Portillo Berasaluce Javier , de la Serna Arantzazu López , Arce Alonso Ander
Published: February 2024

The home confinement of the population in Spain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted face-to-face teaching and led teachers of all educational levels to perform their activities remotely. This represented a radical change in daily tasks. The goal of this study is to analyse and understand the emotions teachers experienced while performing Emergency Remote Teaching during home confinement. We performed a descriptive quantitative analysis and a comparison of the means (ANOVA) related to the independent sociodemographic variables (age, gender, and educational stage). The study sample consisted of 4589 teachers from the Basque Country, and represents the largest study with these characteristics conducted in Spain. The results obtained in the research show that, despite suffering great stress, teachers also felt pride in the work they had done. The study concludes that the teachers in the group who suffered the most negative feelings were women, primary school teachers, and middle-aged educators.
Identifying the Prosocial Orientations That Influence Choice of University Studies in the Social Field for Sustainable Educational Integration
Authors: Nistor Gheorghița , Anghel Mirela , Popa Mihaela
Published: February 2024

For sustainable educational integration, universities are tasked with the aim of educating specialists who are chosen based on particular criteria in order to promote sustainable development. In the domain of social work, it is crucial to take into account young individuals who express a desire to pursue studies in this field and who have prosocial orientations and tendencies. This research was based on the application of a Prosocial Orientation Questionnaire on a group of 238 students (M—2.4 years, 89.5% female) using questions with a purpose, but also a scale for measuring prosocial tendencies (PTM). The findings regarding the prosocial guidelines highlighted the role of the family in the multidimensional development of prosocial behaviour (PSB), but also the involvement in voluntary activities. The results revealed a high association with the six scales of PTM, with higher values being obtained for three dimensions (Compliant, Dire, Emotional) that show a stronger development. Assessing prosocial orientations and tendencies can help select a career and pursue university courses in the social field. The use of these instruments provides evidence of the effectiveness of PTM in assessing prosocial tendencies and supports the idea that PSB is multidimensional. This is demonstrated by the correlations observed in young individuals pursuing a social career.
Marketization of Energy Resources in China: An Environmental CGE Analysis
Authors: Yang Li , Gao Ya
Published: February 2024

This study aims to examine the effects of energy price fluctuations on China’s energy-environment-economy system under different scenarios. To achieve this, a computable general equilibrium model is constructed using the 2020 macroeconomic SAM table and microeconomic SAM tables that encompass 8 energy sectors and 13 intermediate sectors. The model is utilized to analyze the impacts of various policies on variables within the energy-environment-economy system. The findings indicate that an increase in energy prices will lead to a contraction effect on multiple industrial sectors and the overall macroeconomy. Higher energy prices result in elevated prices, reduced output, decreased investment, and decreased consumer spending across most industrial sectors, negatively affecting the macroeconomy. However, government regulation of secondary energy prices can mitigate the influence of primary energy prices on the national economy. Such regulation hinders the transmission of primary energy price fluctuations to downstream industrial chains, thereby alleviating its impact on different sectors and the macroeconomy to varying extents. In order to mitigate the adverse effects of energy price fluctuations, it is crucial to reduce energy consumption while promoting economic growth and enhancing resident welfare. This paper presents relevant measures and suggestions to address these challenges.
Balanced Scorecard for Circular Economy: A Methodology for Sustainable Organizational Transformation
Authors: Martín-Gómez Alejandro M. , Pineda-Ganfornina María , Ávila-Gutiérrez María Jesús , Agote-Garrido Alejandro , Lama-Ruiz Juan Ramón
Published: February 2024

The integration of circular economy (CE) principles within organizational strategies has become imperative for companies committed to sustainability and resource efficiency. This study explores the adoption of CE principles and the role of the balanced scorecard (BSC) as a facilitative tool. By contextualizing the significance of CE adoption, this paper reviews existing BSC models that incorporate sustainability aspects and evaluates software solutions for BSC implementation. Subsequently, a novel methodological framework was proposed. As a novelty, the strategic analysis included the use of a SWOT analysis. Once the situation was identified, BS 8001:2017 was used to define strategic objectives oriented towards the principles of a CE. Moreover, the proposed objectives were prioritized using the analytic network process tool. After completing the organizational and strategic analyses, the UNE 66175:2003 norm was incorporated to decide on the most appropriate indicators for each objective. Finally, to illustrate the proposed framework, a theoretical detailed case study was developed within the context of an industry specializing in the design and manufacturing of plastic packaging. The developed BSC was implemented using the selected software. This study demonstrated the convenience of establishing a methodology to guide decision making in the development and monitoring of the BSC.
Addressing Climate Change through International Investment Agreements: Obstacles and Reform Options
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Li Ni
Published: February 2024

The current international investment treaty network is not well suited to climate goals. The tension stems from the fact that “old generation” of international investment agreements were concluded before the widespread climate action and they were “climate neutral” or “climate blind”. This study explores the obstacles for international investment agreements and investment arbitration to tackle climate change issues, indicating the need for reform. Despite the fact that some states have begun to reform their international investment agreements in light of climate change, there are still many shortcomings to be addressed. The current international investment agreement regime should be reformed to incorporate climate change considerations for investment arbitration to contribute to climate change mitigation. According to the findings, updating investment treaties based on a climate-oriented model would be a viable option for states.
The Perceptions and Experiences of In-Service Teachers in a Computer Science Professional Development Program
Authors: Baabdullah Afaf , Alajlan Hayat , Alebaikan Reem
Published: February 2024

This research aimed to investigate the perceptions and experiences of in-service teachers participating in a professional development (PD) program focused on computer science (CS). The main research question explored the teachers’ perceptions of their experience in the CSPD program, while sub-research questions examined the challenges encountered and the program’s impact on their capacities to teach CS in elementary schools. The study adopted an interpretivist paradigm and employed a qualitative research approach to understand the subjective meanings and hidden factors underlying teachers’ experiences. Data collection involved observations, reflection essays, and a semi-structured focus group interview. The data analysis was guided by the community of practice elements. The findings revealed prerequisite challenges faced by the teachers, such as the need to develop self-directed learning and research skills. Additionally, the PD program was found to enhance teachers’ knowledge, skills, and confidence in teaching CS. It also fostered changes in their beliefs and self-efficacy. Challenges in the pre-implementation and implementation stages were also revealed, including conflicting perspectives, limited supervisor support, and passive learning and teaching. These findings provide valuable insights that can contribute to the design of effective PD initiatives in CS education and promote sustainable education practices.
Act like There Is a Tomorrow—Contact and Affinity with Younger People and Legacy Motivation as Predictors of Climate Protection among Older People
Authors: de Paula Sieverding Theresa , Kulcar Vanessa , Schmidt Karolin
Published: February 2024

The climate crisis poses a major threat for sustainability, with the young and future generations likely to be among the most affected groups in the climate crisis. Older generations will be less affected but have a greater impact both in terms of contribution and mitigation. We investigated potential intergenerational drivers of older Germans’ climate protection intentions and behavior in two pre-registered studies (N1 = 411, 55- to 75-year olds; N2 = 309, 55- to 86-year olds). On a correlational level, both studies revealed that contact between generations (particularly high-quality contact) indirectly explained the participants’ climate protection intentions/behavior. This effect was mediated by affinity with younger people (Study 1) and its subfacets of perspective taking and empathic concern (but not the subfacet of perceived oneness; Study 2). Study 1 further provided evidence that legacy motivation, i.e., the desire to leave behind a positive legacy, was positively related to participants’ climate protection intentions and behavior. Study 2’s attempt at testing the causal role of the subfacets of affinity was not successful, as the experimental manipulation of perspective taking toward younger people failed. However, the two studies provide correlational evidence that the closer older people feel to younger people and the future consequences of their behaviors, the more willing they are to protect the climate.
Land Use/Land Cover Changes in a Mediterranean Summer Tourism Destination in Turkey
Authors: Cinar Ismail , Ardahanlıoğlu Zeynep R. , Toy Süleyman
Published: February 2024

Tourism contributes to national and local economies especially in the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts of Turkey including the study area, Fethiye-Göcek, Muğla in southwest Turkey. The study evaluates land use/land cover (LULC) changes driven by tourism development as a case considering the past (1995–2020) and future environmental impacts on the area. High-resolution remote sensing and some socio-economic data were employed to monitor the situation and causes of LULC changes using Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Land Surface Temperature (LST). The results show a decrease in the size of water surface, forest and maquis lands due to tourism development together with an increase in urban fabrics and bare lands due to urbanisation and forest fires. A significant positive correlation was detected between the urbanisation rate, population size and built-up area as well as air temperature and LST. Rapid and unplanned tourism development boosted investments for infrastructure and facilities and thus increased the demands for lands. Such lands were mostly gained by filling the sea or transforming agricultural and greenhouse areas, forest and maquis-covered lands. The unplanned development of tourism and urban areas caused serious hazards to the natural and cultural areas which threaten the sustainability of tourism. Planning suggestions are proposed to decision makers like coordination works for sustainable and responsible tourism development.
Exothermic Reaction in the Cleaning of Wastewater by a Fe2O3/Coconut Shell Activated Carbon/H2O2 Heterogeneous Fenton-like System
Authors: Zhang Ke , Yan Yuntao
Published: February 2024

Energy utilization in wastewater degradation has important implications for sustainability; however, efficient multiphase Fenton-like catalysts are still needed. In this study, a heterogeneous Fe2O3/coconut shell activated carbon (CSAC) Fenton-like catalyst was prepared and evaluated with respect to degradation performance and exothermic reaction for the treatment of organic wastewater. Fe2O3@CSAC retained the porous morphology of CSAS, and Fe2O3 was uniformly loaded on the surface of CSAS. In the reaction system, the degradation rate of wastewater was higher and a large amount of heat was released; therefore, it could be applied to the energy recovery from wastewater source heat pump technology. The degradation rate of 300 mL of o-phenylenediamine solution with a concentration of 0.04 mol·L−1 was 89.0% under 0.25 mol·L−1 H2O2, 532 g·L−1 Fe2O3@CSAC, pH 7.1, and an initial reaction temperature of 30 °C, elevated to 7.9 °C. These findings clearly demonstrate the degradation performance and exothermic laws of the Fe2O3@CSAC/H2O2 multiphase Fenton-like system.
Students’ Perception of Sustainable Development in Higher Education in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abowardah Eman S. , Labib Wafa , Aboelnagah Hadeer , Nurunnabi Mohammad
Published: February 2024

The role of higher education institutions in laying the foundations of sustainable development is undeniable. As the principal educators of tomorrow’s leaders, such institutions can tremendously contribute to implementing and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Many studies highlighted the significance of the students’ awareness and the level of their active engagement as crucial elements in achieving the desired results. Therefore, measuring such awareness and its effect on their daily life and behavior is fundamental in implementing the SDGs. The current study employs an online survey to explore the awareness level of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Saudi universities. SPSS will be utilized to generate the statistical results of the study. The importance of this study stems from the scarcity of research in the field, especially in Saudi higher education institutions. The current research fills in a significant gap at the national level as it provides future researchers and higher education leaders with the much-needed data to prepare strategic plans for future enhancement of the application of the SDGs. It will also propose a set of practical strategies that can be advanced to augment Saudi students’ awareness of the SDGs and their possible application in their daily lives and practices.
Assessing Subjective and Objective Road Environment Perception in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region, Thailand: A Deep Learning Approach Utilizing Street Images
Authors: Iamtrakul Pawinee , Chayphong Sararad , Kantavat Pittipol , Nakamura Kazuki , Hayashi Yoshitsugu , Kijsirikul Boonserm , Iwahori Yuji
Published: February 2024

Recently, deep learning techniques, specifically semantic segmentation, have been employed to extract visual features from street images, a dimension that has received limited attention in the investigation of the connection between subjective and objective road environment perception. This study is dedicated to exploring and comprehending the factors influencing commuters’ perceptions of the road environment, with the aim of bridging the gap in interpreting environmental quality in Thailand. Semantic segmentation was applied to identify visual objects, expressed as a percentage of pixels represented in 14,812 street images from the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. Subjective road environment perception was assessed through a questionnaire, with a total of 3600 samples collected. Both sets of data were converted to average values per grid, with a grid size of 500 × 500 square meters, resulting in a total of 631 grids with data points. Finally, a multiple linear regression model was employed to analyze the relationship between the ratios of objects obtained from street images via semantic segmentation and human sensory perception of the road environment. The findings from this analysis indicate that the attributes of distinct object classes have a notable impact on individuals’ perceptions of the road environment. Visual elements such as infrastructure, construction, nature, and vehicles were identified as influential factors in shaping the perception of the road environment. However, human and object features did not exhibit statistical significance in this regard. Furthermore, when examining different road environments, which can be categorized into urban, community, and rural contexts, it becomes evident that these contexts distinctly affect the perceptions of various road environments. Consequently, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how street environments are perceived is crucial for the design and planning of neighborhoods and urban communities, facilitating the creation of safer and more enjoyable living environments.
Uranium Dissemination with Phosphate Fertilizers Globally: A Systematic Review with Focus on East Africa
Authors: Mwalongo Dennis A. , Haneklaus Nils H. , Lisuma Jacob B. , Mpumi Nelson , Amasi Aloyce I. , Mwimanzi Jerome M. , Chuma Furaha M. , Kivevele Thomas T. , Mtei Kelvin M.
Published: February 2024

Growing concern has been expressed about uranium (U) accumulation in agricultural soils caused by the long-term application of mineral fertilizers. More than 80% of naturally occurring U transfers from phosphate rock (PR), the raw material used in mineral fertilizer production, to phosphorus (P) fertilizers. These fertilizers are then distributed on agricultural soils, where the U could accumulate over time and become a risk to the environment. The objective of this work was to review the reported content of U in P fertilizers, its potential dispersion in soils, and its uptake by plants in different countries in the world as reported in the literature. The articles for this systematic review were selected from the Scopus database published between 2003 and 2022. The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) protocol were used. A total of 54 articles were assessed based on the standard inclusion and exclusion criteria. U concentrations in P fertilizers, agricultural soil dissemination, and plant uptake for available data were obtained and assessed. In order to compare a set of related data from the collected articles, box and whisker plots showing the distribution of U in P fertilizers are presented by region. The results from the reviewed articles show that the U concentrations in P fertilizer were in the range of 0.1–653 mg kg−1. Interestingly, Minjingu P fertilizers from Tanzania, which are used in six East African countries, showed the highest U concentrations (159 to 653 mg kg−1, average 390 mg kg−1). The reported U concentrations for these fertilizers are, in fact, comparable to those of conventional low-grade uranium deposits mined in Namibia and elsewhere. Additionally, approximately 96% of the reviewed articles indicate that fertilized soil has higher U concentrations than non-fertilized soils, hinting at a measurable effect of mineral fertilizer use. The review recommends U extraction during mineral fertilizer production so that potential environmental risks can be reduced and U resources that would otherwise be lost can be recovered and used to substitute conventional U mining elsewhere.
Case-Based Reasoning in Achieving Sustainability Targets of New Products
Authors: Relich Marcin , Adamczyk Janusz , Dylewski Robert , Kister Agnieszka
Published: February 2024

Improving product sustainability is becoming an increasingly significant challenge for modern enterprises. A growing number of manufacturers are interested in enhancing product sustainability throughout the product life cycle. This study is concerned with using case-based reasoning to identify ways of improving product sustainability and select variables for model specification. Parametric models are applied to search for opportunities to improve product sustainability. This can be achieved through changes introduced at the product design stage. Simulations are performed using constraint-satisfaction modeling to identify conditions for achieving the sustainability targets of new products. Constraint-satisfaction modeling provides a suitable framework for finding all possible sustainability-enhancing changes (if any) during the new product development process. These changes may support R&D specialists in identifying opportunities to improve the sustainability of new products. We demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed approach with an example in which our method enabled a reduction in the product failure rate and an increase of battery lifespan for a robot vacuum cleaner line. We analyzed several factors affecting two targets of product sustainability: minimizing the product failure rate and maximizing battery lifespan. Our findings indicate that R&D staff size is the biggest factor in reducing the product failure rate, and that battery capacity is the most significant factor in battery lifespan.
Stronger Hurricanes and Climate Change in the Caribbean Sea: Threats to the Sustainability of Endangered Coral Species
Authors: Hernández-Delgado Edwin A. , Alejandro-Camis Pedro , Cabrera-Beauchamp Gerardo , Fonseca-Miranda Jaime S. , Gómez-Andújar Nicolás X. , Gómez Pedro , Guzmán-Rodríguez Roger , Olivo-Maldonado Iván , Suleimán-Ramos Samuel E.
Published: February 2024

An increasing sea surface temperature as a result of climate change has led to a higher frequency and strengthening of hurricanes across the northeastern Caribbean in recent decades, with increasing risks of impacts to endangered corals and to the sustainability of coral reefs. Category five Hurricanes Irma and María during 2017 caused unprecedented damage to coral reef ecosystems across northeastern Puerto Rico, including mechanical destruction, localized sediment bedload (horizontal sediment transport and abrasion), and burial by hurricane-generated rubble fields. Hurricanes inflicted significant site-, depth-, and life history trait-specific impacts to endangered corals, with substantial and widespread mechanical damage to branching species, moderate mechanical damage to foliose species, and moderate to high localized damage to small-sized encrusting and massive morphotypes due to sediment bedload and burial by rubble. There was a mean 35% decline in Acropora palmata live cover, 79% in A. cervicornis, 12% in Orbicella annularis, 7% in O. faveolata, 12% in O. franksi, and 96% in Dendrogyra cylindrus. Hurricane disturbances resulted in a major regime shift favoring dominance by macroalgae, algal turf, and cyanobacteria. Recovery from coral recruitment or fragment reattachment in A. palmata was significantly higher on more distant coral reefs, but there was none for massive endangered species. Stronger hurricanes under projected climate change may represent a major threat to the conservation of endangered coral species and reef sustainability which will require enhancing coral propagation and restoration strategies, and the integration of adaptive, ecosystem-based management approaches. Recommendations are discussed to enhance redundancy, rapid restoration responses, and conservation-oriented strategies.
Experimental Investigation on the Symmetry and Stabilization of Ethanol Spray Swirling Flames Utilizing Simultaneous PIV/OH-PLIF Measurements
Authors: Wang Meng , Fu Chen , Wang Xiaoyang , Liu Kunpeng , Meng Sheng , Zhang Man , Yu Juan , Xia Xi , Gao Yi
Published: February 2024

A detailed experimental study of ethanol spray swirling flames was performed in an axial bluff body stabilized burner. The characteristics of the non-reacting and reacting sprays were recorded by particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) and planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) of the OH radical. A few typical flames with different structures (outer-side-flame-lifting, stable, and near-blow-off) were compared and analyzed. The parameters of the spray, including the spray half-angle (α) and droplet number density (nd), are quantified, and it has been found the flame structure and stability were strongly correlated with the droplet distribution. Several parameters of the flow field, such as velocity magnitude (|U| vorticity (ωz), and turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), are quantitively analyzed, and it is observed that the local strain rate rose as the air flow rate increased, which is not conducive to local flame stability. Regarding the flame, quantities such as progress variable (), flame height (Lf), lift–off height (hlf), and symmetry factor (Snd and S) are calculated, and it can be observed that the flame symmetry keeps worsening when approaching blow–off, and the inner flame branch exhibits a worse stabilization than the outer one. Our comprehensive investigations offer a deeper understanding of stable combustion in such two–phase flames.
Detection of the Compromising Audio Signal by Analyzing Its AM Demodulated Spectrum
Authors: Vizitiu Alexandru Madalin , Dobrescu Lidia , Trip Bogdan Catalin , Butnariu Vlad Florian , Molder Cristian , Halunga Simona Viorica
Published: February 2024

The information technology and communication (IT&C) market consists of computing and telecommunication technology systems, which also include a variety of audio devices. Preserving the confidentiality of transmitted information through these devices stands as a critical concern across various domains and businesses. Notably, spurious electromagnetic emanations emitted by audio devices can be captured and processed, potentially leading to eavesdropping incidents. The evaluation of electronic devices for potential security vulnerabilities often involves employing Transient Electromagnetic Pulse Emanation Standard (TEMPEST) technology. This paper introduces a novel approach to TEMPEST testing specifically tailored for audio devices. The outcomes of the proposed approach offer valuable insights into TEMPEST equipment testing, aiming to mitigate the potential risks posed by threats exploitable by eavesdroppers in everyday scenarios. The present work delves into the examination of two ubiquitous global electronic devices: a notebook and a pair of in-ear headphones. The symmetrical framework of this study arises from the intrinsic similarity that, despite belonging to distinct categories, both devices possess the capability to emit electromagnetic emissions that contain compromised audio signals. This assertion is substantiated by the measurement results presented herein. The proposed methodology involves the analysis of the audio amplitude modulation (AM) demodulated signal in the frequency domain. This innovative approach not only mitigates operator fatigue but also significantly reduces the testing time required for these devices and instrument running hours and leads to the development of new applications.
Redesigning the Drugs Distribution Network: The Case of the Italian National Healthcare Service
Authors: Asperti Federica , Foglia Emanuela , Pirovano Giovanni , Pozzi Rossella , Rossi Tommaso , Punginelli Maurizia , Schettini Fabrizio
Published: February 2024

Drug distribution performed through hospital pharmacies facilitates public expenditure savings but incurs higher social costs for patients and caregivers. The widespread presence of community pharmacies could support patient access while also improving drug distribution. The implementation of prescriptive data analyses as constrained optimization to achieve specific objectives, could be also applied with good results in the healthcare context. Assuming the perspective of the Italian National Healthcare Service, the present study, built upon existing research in this field, proposes a decision support tool that is able to define which self-administered drugs for chronic diseases should be distributed by community pharmacies, answering to critical challenges in the case of future pandemics and healthcare emergencies, while also providing suggestions for the institutional decision-making process. Moreover, the tool aids in determining the optimal setup of the drug distribution network, comparing centralized (hospital pharmacies) and decentralized (community pharmacies) approaches, as well as their economic and social implications.
The Modeling and Detection of Attacks in Role-Based Self-Organized Decentralized Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Meleshko Aleksey , Desnitsky Vasily
Published: February 2024

This article discusses the modeling and detection of attacks in self-organizing decentralized wireless sensor networks (WSNs) that can be applied to various critical scenarios in practice. Security issues in this type of network have previously been studied to a rather poor extent. In particular, existing attack detection approaches and algorithms do not rely on the properties of self-organization and decentralization, which an attacker is able to exploit to compromise the network and its services. We propose, first, a model of a self-organizing decentralized wireless sensor network; second, a model of the attacks on such networks; third, algorithms for data collection and attack detection; and, finally, a technique for their application. The WSN model represents a formal specification of this type of network, defining the conditions and limitations of network self-organization and decentralization. The model is characterized by a proposed underlying role-based operation of network nodes and a set of their functional states. The proposed attack model covers the possible types of attacks that are relevant to a given type of WSN and are based on the exploitation of the self-organization and decentralization of the network. The developed algorithm for collecting data for attack detection presents specific types of data and their sources. The developed combined attack detection algorithm is formed of actions that detect relevant attacks on self-organizing decentralized WSNs using machine learning methods. The distinctive element of this algorithm is a set of highly specific features that are obtained by analyzing the data collected in the WSN and used to detect attacks. The proposed technique combines the constructed models and algorithms for the sake of tuning and deploying the attack detection module and the effective detection of attacks in practice. This technique specifies the main steps for the joint use of the models and algorithms and the assignment of data collection and detection parameters. The results of the experiments confirm the correctness of the constructed models, algorithms and technique due to the high values of the attack detection quality indicators. Therefore, the practical application of the proposed apparatus will facilitate improvements in the security of self-organizing decentralized WSNs. Experimental research has confirmed the practical applicability of our proposed solutions. In particular, it has shown that the proposed algorithms and the detection technique can detect both attacks implemented through the exploitation of the network’s properties of decentralization/self-organization and common variations in these attacks (i.e., without exploiting the decentralization property). In general, the experimental results expose a high quality of detection, with an f1-score equal to 0.99.
Prediction of the Expansion of the Universe Made by Alexander Friedmann and the Effect of Particle Creation in Cosmology
Authors: Mostepanenko Vladimir
Published: February 2024

This review devoted to the centenary of Alexander Friedmann’s prediction of the Universe expansion presents the results obtained by him in 1922 and 1924 and an overview of their further developments. Special attention is paid to the role of mathematics, which enabled Friedmann to perform a radical departure from the conventional practice of considering our universe as a static system. The effect of particle creation in the expanding universe is discussed concurrently with the earlier investigated phenomenon of pair creation from a vacuum by an external electric field. The numbers of scalar and spinor particles created at different stages of the Universe’s evolution are presented, and the possible role of the effect of the creation of particles in the formation of relativistic plasma and cold dark matter after the inflationary period is noted. It is stressed that by introducing the concept of the expanding universe, Friedmann made a contribution towards the understanding of the world around us that is compatible with those made by Ptolemy, Copernicus, and Newton in previous epochs.
Crystal Structures of Fusion Cores from CCoV-HuPn-2018 and SADS-CoV
Authors: Wang Fulian , Yang Guang , Yan Lei
Published: February 2024

Cross-species spillover to humans of coronaviruses (CoVs) from wildlife animal reservoirs poses marked and global threats to human and animal health. Recently, sporadic infection of canine coronavirus–human pneumonia-2018 (CCoV-HuPn-2018) in hospitalized patients with pneumonia genetically related to canine and feline coronavirus were identified. In addition, swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV) had the capability of broad tropism to cultured cells including from humans. Together, the transmission of Alphacoronaviruses that originated in wildlife to humans via intermediate hosts was responsible for the high-impact emerging zoonosis. Entry of CoV is mainly mediated by Spike and formation of a typical six helix bundle (6-HB) structure in the postfusion state of Spike is pivotal. Here, we present the complete fusion core structures of CCoV-HuPn-2018 and SADS-CoV from Alphacoronavirus at 2.10 and 2.59 Å, respectively. The overall structure of the CCoV-HuPn-2018 fusion core is similar to Alphacoronavirus like HCoV-229E, while SADS-CoV is analogous to Betacoronavirus like SARS-CoV-2. Collectively, we provide a structural basis for the development of pan-CoV small molecules and polypeptides based on the HR1-HR2 complex, concerning CCoV-HuPn-2018 and SADS-CoV.
Inflammatory Polymorphisms (IL-6 rs1800796, IL-10 rs1800896, TNF-α rs1800629, and IFITM3 rs12252) Are Not Associated with Post-COVID Symptoms in Previously Hospitalized COVID-19 Survivors
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Díaz-Gil Gema , Gil-Crujera Antonio , Gómez-Sánchez Stella M. , Ambite-Quesada Silvia , Torres-Macho Juan , Ryan-Murua Pablo , Franco-Moreno Ana I. , Pellicer-Valero Oscar J. , Arendt-Nielsen Lars , Giordano Rocco
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to identify the association between four selected inflammatory polymorphisms with the development of long-term post-COVID symptoms in subjects who had been hospitalized due to SARS-CoV-2 infection during the first wave of the pandemic. These polymorphisms were selected as they are associated with severe COVID-19 disease and cytokine storm, so they could be important to prognoses post-COVID. A total of 408 (48.5% female, age: 58.5 ± 14.0 years) previously hospitalized COVID-19 survivors participated. The three potential genotypes of the following four single-nucleotide polymorphisms, IL-6 rs1800796, IL-10 rs1800896, TNF-α rs1800629, and IFITM3 rs12252, were obtained from non-stimulated saliva samples of the participants. The participants were asked to self-report the presence of any post-COVID symptoms (defined as symptoms that had started no later than one month after SARS-CoV-2 acute infection) and whether the symptoms persisted at the time of the study. At the time of the study (mean: 15.6, SD: 5.6 months after discharge), 89.4% of patients reported at least one post-COVID symptom (mean number of symptoms: 3.0; SD: 1.7). Fatigue (69.3%), pain (40.9%), and memory loss (27.2%) were the most prevalent post-COVID symptoms in the total sample. Overall, no differences in the post-COVID symptoms depending on the IL-6 rs1800796, IL-10 rs1800896, TNF-α rs1800629, and IFITM3 rs12252 genotypes were seen. The four SNPs assessed, albeit having been previously associated with inflammation and COVID-19 severity, did not cause a predisposition to the development of post-COVID symptoms in the previously hospitalized COVID-19 survivors.
Modeling and Validation of a Passenger Car Tire Using Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Fathi Haniyeh , El-Sayegh Zeinab , Ren Jing , El-Gindy Moustafa
Published: February 2024

This paper focuses on the modeling and analysis of a four-groove passenger car tire, size 235/55R19, using finite element analysis. The Mooney–Rivlin material model is employed to define the hyperelastic behavior of the tire rubber compounds for all solid elements. The tire rim is modeled as a rigid body using aluminum alloy material, and the beads are modeled as beam elements using steel material. The tire model is validated in both static and dynamic domains through several simulations and is compared to published measured data. The tire is validated using footprint and vertical stiffness tests in the static domain. In the static footprint test, a steady-state vertical load is applied, and the tire–road contact area is computed. In the vertical stiffness test, a ramp vertical load is applied, and the tire’s vertical displacement is measured to calculate the tire’s vertical stiffness. In the dynamic domain, the tire is validated using drum-cleat and cornering tests. In the drum-cleat test, a drum with a 2.5 m diameter and a cleat with a 15 mm radius is used to excite the tire structure and obtain the frequency of the vertical and longitudinal first modes of vibration, that is, by applying the fast Fourier transformation (FFT) of the vertical and longitudinal reaction forces at the tire center. In addition to this test, the tire model is pre-steered on a flat surface with a two-degree slip angle and subjected to a steady state linear speed of 10 km/h to predict the cornering force and compute the cornering stiffness. In addition, the effect of tire longitudinal speed on the rolling resistance coefficient is then predicted at zero slip angle using the ISO 28580 rolling resistance test. The findings of this research work provide insights into passenger car tire–road interaction analysis and will be further used to perform tire rubber compound material model sensitivity analysis.
Prevalence of Microbial Isolates Cultured from Endometrial Swab Samples Collected from United Kingdom Thoroughbred Mares from 2014 to 2020
Authors: Mouncey Rebecca , Arango-Sabogal Juan Carlos , Rathbone Polly , Scott Camilla J. , de Mestre Amanda M.
Published: February 2024

Determining whether endometrial microbial isolates are pathogens, contaminants, or even part of the “normal” microbiome is extremely complex, particularly given the absence of “gold standard” tests for endometritis. Population-level benchmarking and temporal monitoring can provide novel insights and a wider context to improve understanding. This study aimed to (i) estimate the prevalence of endometrial isolates from swabs of Thoroughbred broodmares in Newmarket, UK between 2014 and 2020; and (ii) evaluate the effects of year, mare age, and cytology findings on isolate prevalence. Generalised linear mixed models with a logit link, both null models and models using year of sampling, mare age, or cytology findings as predictors, were fitted to estimate isolate prevalence. Over the 7-year period, data were available from 18,996 endometrial-swab samples from 6050 mares on 290 premises. The overall isolate prevalence was 35.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 33.0–37.9), and this varied significantly between years. The most prevalent isolates were β-hemolytic Streptococcus (17.9; 95% CI: 17–19) and E. coli (10.3%; 95% CI: 9.0–11.6). Isolate prevalence increased with mare age except for E. coli isolates, and with increasing category of cytology findings except for α-hemolytic Streptococcus isolates. The results provide novel estimates of isolate prevalence and highlight knowledge gaps around potential complexities in the interpretation of findings.
Prevalence, Infection, and Risk to Human Beings of Toxocara canis in Domestic Food-Producing Animals
Authors: Xu Jingyun , Han Qian
Published: February 2024

Toxocariasis is a significant food-borne zoonotic parasitic disease, and a range of birds and mammals are the paratenic hosts of Toxocara canis. The consumption of raw or undercooked meat and viscera of these paratenic hosts frequently leads to T. canis infection and the development of human toxocariasis. In this review, we will perform an analysis of relevant papers published in the National Center for Biotechnology Infrastructure database on the parasitism, migration, and infection of T. canis in chickens, pigeons, quail, pigs, cattle, sheep, and other food-producing animals, so as to make the public aware of the risk factors of human toxocariasis, improve the public’s understanding of T. canis infection, and provide evidence for targeted prevention and control measures.
Electrohydrodynamic (In)Stability of Microfluidic Channel Flows: Analytical Expressions in the Limit of Small Reynolds Number
Authors: Goranović Goran , Sørensen Mads Peter , Bruus Henrik , Brøns Morten
Published: February 2024

We study electrohydrodynamic (EHD) linear (in)stability of microfluidic channel flows, i.e., the stability of interface between two shearing viscous (perfect) dielectrics exposed to an electric field in large aspect ratio microchannels. We then apply our results to particular microfluidic systems known as two-liquid electroosmotic (EO) pumps. Our novel results are detailed analytical expressions for the growth rate of two-dimensional EHD modes in Couette–Poiseuille flows in the limit of small Reynolds number (R); the expansions to both zeroth and first order in R are considered. The growth rates are complicated functions of viscosity-, height-, density-, and dielectric-constant ratio, as well as of wavenumbers and voltages. To make the results useful to experimentalists, e.g., for voltage-control EO pump operations, we also derive equations for the impending voltages of the neutral stability curves that divide stable from unstable regions in voltage–wavenumber stability diagrams. The voltage equations and the stability diagrams are given for all wavenumbers. We finally outline the flow regimes in which our first-order-R voltage corrections could potentially be experimentally measured. Our work gives insight into the coupling mechanism between electric field and shear flow in parallel-planes channel flows, correcting an analogous EHD expansion to small R from the literature. We also revisit the case of pure shear instability, when the first-order-R voltage correction equals zero, and replace the renowned instability mechanism due to viscosity stratification at small R with the mechanism due to discontinuity in the slope of the unperturbed velocity profile.