bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Os avanços significativos na escolarização do Ensino Fundamental e profissional: Inclusão social e a transformação do educando através do programa Projovem Urbano na Cidade de Manaus, Estado do Amazonas, Brasil
Authors: Evangelista Marcos Antonio , Santos Maria Nifa Mendonça dos , Rodrigues Maria Miriam Evangelista , Deus Elden do Carmo de , Barbosa Ana Maria da Silva Gama , Lima Lúcio Coelho de , Nascimento Evelyn Regina Pinheiro do , Vital Yasmin Souza , Souza Francisca Cláudia Fernandes de , Pinto Adenira Sousa
Published: December 2024

O objetivo desta pesquisa é refletir sobre o ensino fundamental, profissional, inclusão e transformação na vida de jovens no Programa Projovem Urbano na cidade de Manaus-Am. O trabalho apresenta experiência dos educandos participantes de inclusão social, considerando seu contexto de criação relacionado aos altos índices de evasão escolar, elevado número de jovens que não conseguiram concluir seu Ensino Fundamental, nem profissional, sendo que os educandos que participam do programa são excluídos da sociedade. Metodologia, trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa e estudo de caso. Constatou-se que os jovens necessitam de ajuda e precisa ser formado para exercer sua cidadania, a diferença nesse programa é buscar o tempo perdido, conseguir recuperar por meio da escolarização e profissional as mudanças de vida dos educandos. Assim, observou-se que o Projovem Urbano é uma política nacional destinada à jovens de 18 a 29 anos, que não completaram seus estudos e que estão em situação da pobreza, o mesmo oferta a possibilidade no jovem concluir seu ensino fundamental, numa proposta que venha beneficiar aos educandos para o mercado de trabalho profissional. A pesquisa procura com a reflexão de que desafios não estão apenas nos resultados para com a juventude beneficiária do Projovem, mas, principalmente, na implementação e a construção do próprio programa.
PENAMBAHAN TONGKOL JAGUNG PADA BATUBARA TERHADAP PERFORMA PLTU 2X150 DENGAN PROSES CO-FIRING MENGGUNAKAN SIMULASI CYCLE-TEMPO
Authors: Riyan Hidayat  , Ena Marlina  , Artono Raharjo
Published: December 2024

Co-firng ialah pembakaran yang terjadi antara dua pembakaran yang jenisnya berbeda. Dengan tujuan meredakan emisi gas buang dari pembangkit. didalam penelitian ini memakai metode simulasi menggunakan softwer cycle-tempo, dengan bahan yang digunakan beruap heat balance dari PLTU 2X150 MW, bahan bakar yang digunakan berjenis batubara dengan nilai HHV 4200 cal/gram. Pada penelitian ini analisa pengaruh bahan bakar biomass tongkol jagung dan batubara  dengan proses co-firing dan biomaass yang dipakai berupa biomamass tongkol jagung sebab minimnya sulfur dan rasio pencampuran batubara dan biomass 0%, 25%, dan 50%.  didalam penelitin ini, melakukan analisis terhadap daya performa dan efisiensi boiler, performa pembangkit, daya auxiliary, net power,  net plant heat rate (NPHR). Hasil dari penelitian ini Pada  performa dan efisiensi boiler menunjukkan peningkatan daya dan juga efisiensi pada rasio 0% atau 100% batubara dengan nilai sebesar 28.702,97 kW, efisiensi 82% dan terjadi penurunan daya dan efisiensi pada rasio campuran 25% dengan menjadi 28.427,09 kW, dengan efisiensi 81%, pada daya rasio campuran 50% dengan nilai daya 28.122,75 kW, dengan efisiensi 79%. Terjadi penurunan daya yang dihasilkan auxiliary sendiri pada rasio campuran 50% dengan nilai sebesar 4598,89 kW.
Perbandingan Laju Korosi dengan Menggunakan Spray Chamber Test dan Corrosion Coupon Rack pada Baja Karbon Rendah
Authors: Suprapto Agus , Tsamroh Dewi Izzatus , Sentosa Obaja Eden Riyanto
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membandingkan laju korosi baja karbon rendah menggunakan dua metode pengujian, yaitu spray chamber test dan corrosion coupon rack. Baja karbon rendah dipilih karena penggunaannya yang luas di berbagai industri, seperti konstruksi dan peralatan, namun memiliki kerentanan terhadap korosi di lingkungan tertentu. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode spray chamber test dengan mensimulasikan lingkungan korosif dengan penyemprotan larutan garam secara terkontrol, sedangkan corrosion coupon rack menggunakan eksposur langsung terhadap larutan korosif dalam kondisi statis. Laju korosi dianalisis berdasarkan perubahan massa spesimen dan dievaluasi menggunakan perhitungan corrosion rate. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa laju korosi yang dihasilkan oleh spray chamber test cenderung lebih tinggi dibandingkan dengan corrosion coupon rack. Hal ini disebabkan oleh mekanisme penyemprotan yang meningkatkan kontak permukaan spesimen dengan larutan korosif, mempercepat reaksi oksidasi. Sementara itu, corrosion coupon rack menunjukkan laju korosi yang lebih lambat karena kondisi larutan statis yang mengurangi dinamika reaksi.
The Lawfulness of Using Inventions for Generative AI Training : A Case Study of a US Lawsuit against OpenAI and Perplexity AI
Authors: Ismantara Stefany , Silalahi Wilma
Published: December 2024

Copyright protection in Indonesia is governed by Law No. 28 of 2014 (Law 28/2014), encompassing moral and economic rights. This law imposes limitations on the use of works for education, law enforcement, or technological development as long as such use does not harm the legitimate interests of the rightholder. The development of generative AI (GAI) poses challenges in determining the legality of using copyrighted works for GAI training. This study examines copyright regulations concerning GAI through normative, conceptual, and comparative legal approaches, including case studies on lawsuits against OpenAI and Perplexity AI. The findings indicate that the legality of using copyrighted works depends on the data input process and output (responses). Data scraping is considered an economic right of the rightholder, classified as reproduction under Article 9 of Law 28/2014. If such acts are conducted without the rightholder’s consent and for commercial purposes, they are deemed unlawful under Indonesia’s current copyright law. GAI outputs may also infringe copyright if: (1) the source is not cited, violating Article 7 on copyright management information; (2) substantial portions of the work are reproduced, violating the rightholder's economic rights under Article 9; or (3) the work is distorted in a way that harms the rightholder’s honor, infringing on moral rights under Article 5. To accommodate AI development, specific regulations integrating AI transparency principles outlined in SE Kominfo 9/2023 are required. These regulations could include obligations for AI companies to release summaries of training datasets, include Uni EropaLAs that define the responsibilities of AI developers and users, and provide disclaimers regarding AI's limitations. Regarding the fulfillment of rightholders’ economic rights, a non-exclusive blanket license through Collective Management Organizations (CMOs) as stipulated in Permenkumham 15/2024 is necessary. These regulations should be synchronized with related policies to establish legal certainty that adapts to technological advancements.
Threat factors from Lancet-type adversary UAVs and means of engineering protection against them, including the use of pre-detonation screens
Authors: Bilyk Artem , Kashuba Yaroslav
Published: December 2024

The article analyzes the known parameters of the Russian Lancet-type unmanned aerial vehicles and the threats they pose to military equipment and facilities. Formulas and calculation parameters of damage factors are presented. The mechanisms of destruction of protective materials under the action of these factors were analyzed.  It is shown that the main safety during the detonation of the warhead is provided by the cumulative jet. Calculations of engineering defense systems to increase the survivability of military equipment and structures were carried out. It has been proven that shelters should have both pre-detonation screens and an internal protective shell to neutralize all damage factors. Calculated distances at which the cumulative jet does not pose a significant danger and the combat part of unmanned aerial vehicles can be considered as high-explosive fragmentation. The proposed classification of the engineering protection system to increase the survivability of military equipment and structures, by categories, material and degree of protection. The main requirements that protective pre-detonation screens must meet are formulated. Examples of effective options for the arrangement of protective pre-detonation screens are considered, in particular, based on circular weaving nets. The strength of such products has been confirmed by numerical simulations in software complexes based on the finite element method, as well as by full-scale experiments conducted abroad. It was noted that mesh and lattice pre-detonation screens by themselves do not provide full protection, they are only able to create a safe distance from the anti-aircraft missile to the possible point of explosion of the combat part of the unmanned aerial vehicle, and also increase the chance of its trajectory being distorted and the detonator not detonating when it collides with the screen.
Is digit ratio a biomarker of bone mineral density? Sivas Cumhuriyet University example
Authors: Koç Fırat , Gültekin Timur
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between bone mineral density (BMD) and digit ratio, with the goal of evaluating the potential of digit ratio as a marker for predicting osteoporosis-type bone diseases. The study sample included 200 patients (100 women and 100 men) who visited the Nuclear Medicine Clinic at Cumhuriyet University Research Hospital for check-ups, along with a control group of 100 healthy individuals (50 women and 50 men). Bone densitometry measurements were obtained for all participants, and the lengths of the second and fourth digits on both hands were measured using digital calipers. The results indicated a positive correlation between digit ratio and BMD, with this relationship being more pronounced in women. In men, significant positive correlations were found between the right-hand digit ratio and left BMD (r = 0.589), the right digit ratio and left T-score (r = 0.544), and the right digit ratio and left Z-score (r = 0.454). Similar positive associations were observed between the right digit ratio and femoral BMD (r = 0.608), femoral T-score (r = 0.465), and femoral Z-score (r = 0.362) (p < 0.05). For women, stronger positive correlations were identified between the right-hand digit ratio and left BMD (r = 0.707), the right digit ratio and left T-score (r = 0.815), and the right digit ratio and left Z-score (r = 0.737). Additionally, significant associations were noted between the right digit ratio and femoral BMD (r = 0.469), femoral T-score (r = 0.535), and femoral Z-score (r = 0.495) (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that the association between digit ratio and bone mineral density is stronger in women. In summary, individuals with a high digit ratio generally have higher bone density.
WORK-LIFE BALANCE, EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT, JOB SATISFACTION, AND INDONESIAN EMPLOYEES’ PERFORMANCE
Authors: Eddy Madiono Sutanto  , Peter J. Sigiols  , Evelyn Natania Wijaya
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has been also impacting employees’ work-life. This study examined the effect of work-life balance on employee performance through employee engagement and job satisfaction as intermediate variables. It was quantitative research and used a non-probability sampling method. Data was collected through a questionnaire with 210 responses, and 207 were processed using SmartPLS. The results showed that work-life balance had no significant effect on employee performance. In contrast, the intermediate variables like employee engagement and job satisfaction significantly influenced employee performance. Likewise, the indirect impact of work-life balance on employee performance through employee engagement and job satisfaction had a significant effect.
THE IMPACT OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP AND COMPETENCE LEADERSHIP ON INNOVATIVE WORK BEHAVIOR: A MEDIATED MODEL
Authors: Tubel Agusven  , Mohamad Shah Bin Kassim  , Helen Tan Sui Hong
Published: December 2024

This paper aims to delve into key elements that encourage teachers to participate in innovative work practices within a fiercely competitive setting. Current studies on the evolution of the fundamental mechanisms and limiting factors that explain the relationship between transformational leadership and leadership competencies in innovative work behavior are mediated by organizational citizenship behavior, knowledge sharing, employee voice, and organizational communication. The framework of this study is based on social exchange theory (SET) and conservation of resources theory (COR). PLS-SEM along with Smart PLS version 3.0 software was adopted for data analysis, which includes analysis of measurement models and structural models. The questionnaires were distribute to 299 teachers in the Riau Islands province. Data analysis showed that competence leadership, organizational citizenship behavior, and organizational identification further enhance innovative work behavior among teachers. However, the results further revealed that transformational leadership, knowledge sharing, and employee voice do not affect innovative work behavior. Additionally, this study found the influence of organizational identification as a mediator on the relationship between competency leadership and innovative work behavior, organizational citizenship behavior as a mediator for the relationship between transformational leadership and innovative work behavior, and organizational identification as a mediator for the relationship between transformational leadership and innovative work behavior among teachers. The current research provides useful insights regarding transformational leadership and leadership competencies that can generate positive energy in secondary school teachers in the Riau Islands, Indonesia, thereby encouraging innovative thinking.
DETERMINING SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES' ADOPTION INTENTION OF SOCIAL CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT IN CHINA: THE MEDIATING EFFECT OF ATTITUDE
Authors: Wang Laidi  , Lennora Putit♣  , Xiaobo Jiao  , Herning Indriastuti
Published: December 2024

In today’s digital era, social customer relationship management (social CRM) has become a vital tool for businesses seeking to strengthen customer relationships. Despite its advantages, the adoption of social CRM among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remains relatively low. Drawing on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), this study investigated the factors influencing SMEs’ intentions to adopt social CRM in China. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the conceptual framework and hypotheses. Based on a survey of 198 SMEs in Zhejiang, the findings reveal that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and attitude are significant direct determinants of adoption intention. Additionally, the results highlight the central role of attitude in mediating the effects of performance expectancy and effort expectancy on SMEs' intention to adopt social CRM. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors shaping social CRM adoption in SMEs.
DO INSTITUTIONAL ACTS AS ‘BULLET-PROOF’ FOR DUAL BANKING SECTOR DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC? EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM SELECTED HIGH- AND MIDDLE- INCOME COUNTRIES
Authors: Noor Shazreen Mortadza  , Yunastiti Purwaningsih  , Irwan Trinugroho  , Tri Mulyaningsih
Published: December 2024

The global faced another pandemic, which is COVID-19 that created panic amongst the economics sector including banking sector. The pandemic either weakens or enhances the institutional in order to sustain banking performance in terms of financial stability. Pandemic and institutional level in particular countries may give an impact to the banking sector as new regulations and policies were introduced to curb the COVID-19. Dual Banking sector comprises conventional and Islamic banks in high- and middle- income countries are significant to their economics performance. Main question is does pandemic influence institutional in order to sustain financial stability? This study comprises data from 2012 to 2022. System Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) is employed. Financial stability indicated by Z-score, institutional variables are extracted from World Governance Index (WGI), and dummy for year of pandemic (2020 & 2021). The findings indicate that pandemics do not have an impact on the financial stability in high- income countries regardless of the level of institutional. On the contrary, the pandemic lowered financial stability in middle- income countries that have better institutional environments. It shows that middle- income countries should issue new policies prudently during pandemics to achieve financial stability.
CREATING HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION PERFORMANCE: EXECUTION CAPABILITY AS A MEDIATOR OF ALIGNMENT
Authors: Nurul Kamilia  , Suharnomo  , Mirwan Surya Perdhana
Published: December 2024

The objective of the study is to explore the impact of the strategic alignment process on improving the Study Program’s Performance and explore the impact of execution capability as a mediator. By using quantitative research and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) AMOS as data analysis, 124 samples were chosen by random sampling method. Respondents are the Head of Study Programs at several Prominent Universities in Central Java Province, Indonesia. The research revealed that the strategic alignment process and execution capabilities have a significant effect on the performance of the Study Program. Execution capability as a mediator significantly increases the influence of the strategic alignment process on improving performance of Study Program’s performance. Contributions of the study provide theoretical and managerial implications to the management of higher education institutions in terms of the ability to implement the strategy. Therefore, a study program needs to improve the quality of the strategic alignment process that takes place in its organization as a recommendation. In this case, it would be better for study programs to choose and develop strategies that suit the stakeholder needs. The originality of this research lies in the simultaneous use of strategic alignment processes and execution capabilities to improve the performance of higher education institutions, which, in several previous studies, discussions on both concepts in higher education management were still rarely carried out.
Bimbingan Teknis Fortifikasi Pakan untuk Meningkatkan Produktivitas Budidaya Ikan Kuwe di Desa Tapulaga
Authors: La Ode Baytul Abidin  , La Ode Aslin  , La Ode Muhammad Arsal  , Asis Bujang  , Sitty Ainsyah Habibie
Published: December 2024

Tapulaga Village is one of the coastal villages in Soropia District, South Konawe Regency. Most of its residents work as kuwe fish farmers. Based on information from the community, one of the main problems faced is slow fish growth. On the other hand, the availability of feed that still depends on nature is also limited. Based on this, community service was held which aims to provide education and technical guidance related to increasing feed efficiency, growth and fish immune system through fish feed fortification. This community service activity was carried out in September 2024. The activity was carried out using the method of material presentation, discussion and direct practice. This activity has succeeded in educating the community regarding the benefits of fortified feed for fish growth and health, fortifier materials that are easily obtained and economical, and providing technical skills in feed fortification using the repelletting method.
Keywords: Fortification, growth, immune system
Implementasi Teknologi Tepat Guna Mesin Roasting Upaya Peningkatan Produk UMKM Kopi di Malang
Authors: Aladin Eko Purkuncoro  , Eko Budi Santoso  , Erni Junita Sinaga  , Sanny Andjar Sari  , Eko Nurcahyo
Published: December 2024

Artikel ini membahas penerapan Teknologi Tepat Guna melalui penggunaan mesin biji kopi pengering di Kampoeng Kopi Sumberdem, Malang, dengan tujuan untuk meningkatkan kualitas dan kuantitas prduk UMKM kopi.Penelitian ini menujukan bahwa penggunaan mesin pengering dapat secara signifikan mengurangi kadar air biji kopi, serta meningkatkan cita rasa dan aroma kopi. Metode penelitian yang digunakan meliputi Observasi, Focus Group Discussion (FGD), Pembuatan, dan pengujian mekanisme pengering. Temuan penelitian menunjukkan bahwa teknologi ini tidak hanya meningkatkan efisiensi proses pengeringan tetapi juga membantu meningkatkan penjualan produk kopi di toko-toko. Selain itu, pelatihan bagi petani dalam memanfaatkan teknologi ini dengan sebaik-baiknya akan meningkatkan kesejahteraan ekonomi mereka. Penelitian lebih lanjut diperlukan untuk menyelidiki penggunaan teknologi lain dalam produksi kopi.
Descentralização
Authors: Teodoro Fernanda de Morais , Brisola Elisa Maria Andrade , Portugal Nilton dos Santos , Alves Alessandro Ferreira
Published: December 2024

A Vigilância Sanitária é definida como um conjunto de ações capazes de eliminar, diminuir ou prevenir riscos à saúde. A descentralização consiste no processo de transferência de responsabilidade de gestão do Estado para os Municípios. Este artigo é parte da dissertação intitulada: DESCENTRALIZAÇÃO DA VIGILANCIA SANITÁRIA: uma análise nos municípios da Unidade Regional de Saúde de Varginha-MG e tem como objetivo analisar as condições de recursos humanos e recursos financeiros existentes nas vigilâncias sanitárias de alguns municípios pertencentes à Unidade Regional de Saúde de Varginha. A abordagem da pesquisa é qualitativa, de natureza aplicada, caráter exploratório e utilizado como instrumento da pesquisa, a entrevista. Participaram da entrevista, 5 coordenadores das VISA’s municipais. As entrevistas foram transcritas e analisadas pela técnica da triangulação que consiste na articulação entre as narrativas dos participantes, o contexto no qual foram produzidas e o diálogo com autores que discutem as temáticas emergentes nas entrevistas. Como resultado observou-se como fragilidade, a deficiência de recursos humanos, a desvalorização salarial e gestão financeira. Conclui-se que o processo de descentralização da VISA ainda que seja uma diretriz fundamental e também uma importante estratégia, não alcançou o patamar esperado em relação à gestão autônoma do município.
Perception of health and illness and quality of life after total thyroidectomy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma: the PERSAM study
Authors: Groff Elena , Soccal Beatrice , Carrossa Fabiola , Vianello Federica , Talomo Sara , Feltrin Alessandra , Scarzello Giovanni , Ocagli Honoria , Gregori Dario , Martinato Matteo
Published: December 2024

Background

Differentiated thyroid carcinoma is the most common endocrine neoplasm; several studies have shown that individuals perceive the disease as being more severe than it actually is, resulting in a reduced quality of life. The primary aim of this study is to assess the quality of life and perception of illness among patients admitted for radiometabolic therapy, post total thyroidectomy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma. The secondary aim is to identify which patient characteristics are associated with a lower quality of life in order to improve and personalize care.

Methods

The study was conducted at the UOC of Radiotherapy Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS in Padua, Italy. Three questionnaires were administered: Psychological General Well-Being Index (PGWBI), the Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R) and the Short Form Survey (SF-12). A descriptive statistics analysis and multiple linear regression models were performed to explore the relationship between some of the variables.

Results

Significant associations emerged between the type of surgery and higher values on the PGWBI questionnaire (P = 0.022) and the score obtained in the ‘emotional representations’ dimension of the IPQ-R questionnaire (P = 0.028). Pathology staging was statistically significantly (P = 0.026) associated with the score obtained in the dimension ‘identity’; age with the scores obtained in the dimensions ‘emotional representations’ (P = 0.035), ‘personal control’ (P = 0.004), ‘consistency with pathology’ (P < 0.001) and ‘causes’ (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

There is evidence of moderate distress in psychological well-being and good perception of pathology. There is less understanding of the disease in individuals with stage 3 and 4 thyroid cancer, in those who have undergone total thyroidectomy without lymphadenectomy and who are aged over 60. Physical well-being: limitations in self-care and moderately physically demanding activities. Mental health: more information to patients decreases the degree of stress and promotes ‘positive’ emotions. Physical health status: a long-term activity program, characterized by aerobic exercises to be performed in groups or at home, is useful. This study allows to transpose the results into clinical practice, evaluating the possibility and methods of providing personalized care to patients.
Silencing Mechanisms in Academia: Towards Collaborative Innovation to Support Critical Social Science
Authors: Özbilgin Mustafa F. , Erbil Cihat
Published: December 2024

Critical social science (CSS) is a framework of social science that questions uneven relations of power to achieve transformative change towards equitable social outcomes. Scholars who pursue CSS are often politically and socially engaged to promote social progress, which puts them in direct conflict with hierarchies and hegemonic structures of power. As a result, CSS and scholars in this tradition have been the target of backlash that seeks to silence CSS in academia. We explain three dominant silencing mechanisms in academia that frame the backlash and attacks against CSS. Theorising collaborative innovation, we offer multilevel and inclusive design and solidarity as possible venues for resistance against the ongoing purge of CSS, which undermines autonomy, freedom of speech, and equality in academia.
Resource-Exploration-Oriented Lunar Rocks Monocular Detection and 3D Pose Estimation
Authors: Suo Jiayu , Long Hongfeng , Ma Yuebo , Zhang Yuhao , Liang Zhen , Yan Chuan , Zhao Rujin
Published: December 2024

Lunar in situ resource utilization is a core goal in lunar exploration, with accurate lunar rock pose estimation being essential. To address the challenges posed by the lack of texture features and extreme lighting conditions, this study proposes the Simulation-YOLO-Hourglass-Transformer (SYHT) method. The method enhances accuracy and robustness in complex lunar environments, demonstrating strong adaptability and excellent performance, particularly in conditions of extreme lighting and scarce texture. This approach provides valuable insights for object pose estimation in lunar exploration tasks and lays the foundation for lunar resource development. First, the YOLO-Hourglass-Transformer (YHT) network is used to extract keypoint information from each rock and generate the corresponding 3D pose. Then, a lunar surface imaging physics simulation model is employed to generate simulated lunar rock data for testing the method. The experimental results show that the SYHT method performs exceptionally well on simulated lunar rock data, achieving a mean per-joint position error (MPJPE) of 37.93 mm and a percentage of correct keypoints (PCK) of 99.94%, significantly outperforming existing methods. Finally, transfer learning experiments on real-world datasets validate its strong generalization capability, highlighting its effectiveness for lunar rock pose estimation in both simulated and real lunar environments.
Improvement of a Free-Wake Model for the Aerodynamic and Aeroacoustic Analysis of a Small-Scale Two-Bladed Propeller in Hover
Authors: Iannotta Manuel , Visingardi Antonio , Quagliarella Domenico , De Gregorio Fabrizio , Barbarino Mattia , Zanotti Alex
Published: December 2024

The aim of the present work is the improvement of a free-wake model for the analysis of a small-scale two-bladed propeller in hover. The simulations are carried out using a BEM approach implemented in the medium-fidelity solver RAMSYS. An acoustic validation is also performed using the developed tool ACO-FWH. The work proves that even mild discrepancies in the propeller geometry must be accounted for as their influence is not negligible, especially on the aeroacoustics of the propeller. In particular, the proper modeling of the blades enables the correct identification of the sub-harmonics of the SPL spectra. An optimization procedure based on the application of the evolutionary Genetic Algorithm is followed to identify the values of the parameters describing the dissipative and diffusive properties in the Bhagwat–Leishman vortex core model, an upgraded version of the classical Lamb–Oseen one. On average, this approach enabled the further improvement of the accuracy of the numerical model in terms of acoustic signature evaluation with respect to the one obtained by only modeling blade dissimilarities. The results obtained demonstrate the promising capabilities of a fine-tuned free-wake medium-fidelity approach to simulate the aerodynamic and acoustic details of a small-scale propeller in hover, provided the accurate geometrical modeling of the propeller and the selection of suitable parameters to be used in the wake modeling.
Modeling and Simulation of Reel Motion in a Foxtail Millet Combine Harvester
Authors: Liang Zhenwei , Liu Jia , Yang Deyong , Ouyang Kangcheng
Published: December 2024

Due to the high plant height, heavy ear, and easy forward tilt of millet during harvesting, the reel of a traditional combine harvester is often difficult to adapt to the special growth characteristics of millet, resulting in serious grain loss. Therefore, optimizing the design of the reel is important to improve the harvesting efficiency of millet and reduce the grain header loss. In order to determine the optimal reel speed ratio(λ), kinematics simulation experiments and analysis were carried out under different combinations of forward speed and reel revolution speed. The results showed that the supporting effect of the reel is insufficient when λ ≤ 1, and the trochoidal trajectory of the reel can provide a backward driving force when λ > 1, the optimum speed ratio of the reel should be controlled between 1.5 and 1.6. Field experiments results showed that the grain header loss rate was the lowest (0.9%) when λ = 1.6. This study provides key guidance for the adjustment of the combine harvester, effectively reducing the grain header loss rate in harvesting millet, and improving the harvesting efficiency.
The Restoration Effect of Degraded Grassland Depends on the Response of Species Root Distribution to Resource Availability
Authors: Zhao Yiming , Li Hui , Peng Fei , Xilatu Dabu , Chen Qing , Lin Shan
Published: December 2024

Nitrogen (N) fertilization is an effective practice for restoring degraded grasslands, which might strongly depend on the rooting system and resource competition of individual plant species. The purpose of this study is to explore a method to distinguish the response of various plant root architectures to the resource availability in a mixed ecosystem in situ. Field experiments were conducted using isotope techniques in conjunction with a specialized experimental design at a semiarid grassland location featuring heavily grazed (HG) and moderately grazed (MG) grassland sites with different dominant species. The same amounts of water and 15N-labelled fertilizer were uniformly supplied by a tube fertigation system at soil depths of 0, 15 and 45 cm. At both the HG and MG sites, there was a significant increase in aboveground net primary production (ANPP), water use efficiency (WUE) and 15N use efficiency (15NUE) at the community level with increasing depths of fertigation. The ANPP and plant N uptake exhibited higher values at the HG site compared to those at the MG site, while 15NUE and 15N abundance were significantly lower at the HG site. The annual species Salsola collina Pall. exhibited the highest aboveground biomass (AGB) and 15N abundance compared to all other species. Furthermore, the 15N enrichment of S. collina increased with greater depths of 15N-labelled fertilization, indicating that S. collina might develop a more extensive root system in response to water and N addition in the degraded grassland. Our study highlights that using isotope methods could indirectly distinguish root distribution and resource acquisition. In the recovery of degraded grassland by N fertilizer, we should not only consider the aboveground biomass but also pay special attention to the resource competition of individual plant species due to the possible discrepancy in rooting systems.
Research on the Genetic Improvement Effects of Lodging Resistance-Related Traits in Maize Core Germplasm
Authors: Yang Kaizhi , Tan Jian , Zhang Qiyuan , Bai Tianhang , Zhou Shuna , Hao Junheng , Yu Xinling , Zang Zhenyuan , Zhang Dan
Published: December 2024

Lodging is a key factor affecting maize yield and harvestability. This study utilized Reid population baselines and their improved lines as female parents and No-Reid population baselines and their improved lines as male parents to form 48 incomplete diallel crosses. The genetic improvement effects, combining ability, and heterosis of three lodging resistance-related traits (stem tension, puncture strength, and crushing strength at the third internode) were analyzed. Regarding genetic improvement, the results indicated that all three traits were significantly improved in the improved lines compared to the baselines, with improvements increasing in each round. Combining ability analysis showed positive general combining ability (GCA) effects for the improved lines J133A, JM25, JM115, and JM1895 in all three traits, with higher GCA values than the baselines and first-round improved lines. Heterosis analysis revealed the highest advantages for the combinations J133A × JM115 (stem tension), JM25 × JM115 (crushing strength), and J133A × J1865 (puncture strength). These findings suggest that the improved female lines J133A and JM25, along with male lines JM115 and JM1895, not only possess strong lodging resistance but also exhibit high yield potential in the cross J133A × JM115, offering new materials and varieties for maize mechanization.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) from the USDA-GRIN Germplasm Collection
Authors: Alatawi Ibtisam , Xiong Haizheng , Alkabkabi Hanan , Chiwina Kenani , Luo Qun , Ling Kai-Shu , Qu Yuejun , Du Renjie , Shi Ainong
Published: December 2024

The genetic diversity and population structure of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) were investigated to support breeding strategies and germplasm conservation. A total of 276 accessions from the USDA-GRIN collection were analyzed using single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) generated through genotyping by sequencing (GBS). After stringent filtering, 5162 high-quality polymorphic SNPs were retained for analysis. Population structure analysis revealed three distinct genetic groups (Q1, Q2, and Q3) among the accessions. Accessions from the USA, Asia, and Central and South America were assigned to all three groups, while accessions from Europe and Oceania were predominantly clustered within Q2. Genetic diversity indices, including major allele frequency, heterozygosity, and polymorphism information content (PIC), indicated moderate-to-high levels of genetic variation. These findings provide essential insights into the genetic diversity and population structure of tomato, offering valuable information for breeding programs aimed at improving traits such as yield, stress tolerance, and disease resistance. The results further underscore the role of global germplasm exchange in shaping the genetic landscape of tomato accessions.
Positive Correlation of Social Rank and Hair Cortisol Concentration in Group-Housed Pregnant Cows
Authors: Ninomiya Shigeru , Nishi Ayumi , Nakamura Ririka , Shibata Mitsuhiro
Published: December 2024

In intensive beef production systems, social dominance relationships among cattle and human-cattle relationships constantly affect cattle welfare. However, these factors have not been investigated to assess their long-term effects on cattle welfare. In this study, the relations of hair cortisol concentrations of group-housed pregnant cows with their social rank and avoidance distance when approached by humans were analysed. Thirty-two Japanese black cows were used in this study. Examinations were conducted six times throughout two years, and each cow was subjected to one–three examinations. Hair sampling was conducted on each examination day. The hair cortisol concentrations were measured using a cortisol enzyme immunoassay kit. Social behaviour recordings were made about 6 h on each examination day. The numbers of occurrences of butt, threat, chase, and avoidance behaviours of each animal were recorded using continuous recording methods, and the social rank score for each animal was calculated from the data. Avoidance distances from humans approaching were measured for 23 test cows during the first three examination days. Measurements were taken 5–10 min after the start of morning feeding. The relations between the hair cortisol concentration and social rank score or avoidance distance were analysed using a mixed-effects model or correlation analysis. Significant positive correlation was found between the social rank score and hair cortisol concentration (F1, 48 = 4.54, p = 0.038). No significant correlation was found between the cows’ responsiveness to humans and their hair cortisol concentration (r = −0.004, p = 0.99, n = 23). The findings suggest that low-ranking cows had lower cortisol levels.
Enhancing the Accuracy of Pedicle Screw Placement Using 3D-Printed Screw-Guiding Techniques in the Lumbosacral Region for Small Breed Dogs: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Kim Jin-Yeong , Kwak Ho-Hyun , Woo Heung-Myong , Kim Junhyung
Published: December 2024

A 3D-printed guide is an effective method for accurately placing pedicle screws in dog vertebrae. While a conventional drill guide allows precise pilot hole formation, it can lead to potential screw wobbling during insertion. In this study, we applied a technique that assists with both drilling and screw insertion, and we compared the accuracy of screw placement using this approach with that achieved by the conventional drill guide. The screws were divided into three groups: Group A (drill guide), Group B (cannulated guide), and Group C (screw guide). The accuracy of screw placement was assessed by comparing preoperative and postoperative CT images. Group A exhibited the largest angular deviation. Group C exhibited significantly smaller deviations in entry point, exit point, angle α, and angular deviation than Group A. In Group B, only the exit-point deviation was significantly smaller than that in Group A. Furthermore, the angular deviation in Group C was significantly smaller than that in Group B. In conclusion, 3D-printed screw-guiding techniques improved the accuracy of pedicle screw placement, with screw guides outperforming cannulated guides, making them a viable option for small breed dogs.
Kaempferol and Vitamin E Improve Production Performance by Linking the Gut–Uterus Axis Through the Reproductive Hormones and Microbiota of Late-Laying Hens
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Jie , Li Kangle , Fu Xinyue , Liang Yanhui , Zhang Minling , Zhuang Shaolong , Gao Yuyun
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the effects of kaempferol (KAE), and vitamin E (VE) on the performance, reproductive hormones, and the composition of the cecum and uterus microbiota in late-laying hens. A total of 192 49-week-old Jinghong No. 1 laying hens were randomly divided into four groups, with six replicates in each group and eight laying hens in each replicate, pre-reared for one week and formally tested for ten weeks. The CON group was fed basal diets, the VE group, the KAE group, and the KAE + VE group were fed a basal diet to which was added 0.2 g/kg VE, 0.4 g/kg KAE, and 0.2 g/kg VE + 0.4 g/kg KAE, respectively. The results are as follows. Compared to the CON group, the VE group, the KAE group, and the KAE + VE group significantly increased the egg production rate, average daily egg weight and significantly decreased the feed-to-egg ratio. The VE + KAE group significantly improved the Haugh unit. The VE group, the KAE group, and the KAE + VE group considerably enhanced the eggshell strength, eggshell relative weight, eggshell thickness, yolk color, and relative yolk weight. The serum E2 and LH levels of the KAE group and the KAE + VE group and the serum FSH levels of the KAE + VE group were significantly higher. In the ovary, the KAE group and the KAE + VE group’s ESR1 gene expression levels were significantly higher, and the KAE + VE group’s FSHR gene expression levels were markedly higher. In the uterus, the KAE group and the KAE + VE group’s ESR1 gene expression levels were dramatically higher, and the KAE + VE group’s ESR2 and FSHR gene expression levels were significantly higher. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed a significant aggregation of cecum and uterus colonies in the Beta diversity PCoA. In the cecum, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and WPS-2 were the dominant phylums. In the uterus, the Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidetes were the dominant phylums. The KAE + VE group’s F/B was significantly higher at the phylum level than in the CON group and the VE group. In summary, the addition of VE and KAE to the diet can improve the production performance of late-laying hens, increase the content of reproductive hormones, and stabilize the cecal and uterus microbiota, which may be related to the hormone and microbiota linkage of the gut–uterus axis.
Let-7b, miR-29b, and miR-125b as Potential Biomarkers for Differentiating Canine Mammary Carcinoma Histological Types
Authors: Ferreira Tiago , Dias Francisca , Alves Ângela , Gama Adelina , Mano João F. , Oliveira Paula A. , Medeiros Rui
Published: December 2024

Epigenetics is the study of changes in organisms that result from modifications in gene expression rather than alterations in the genetic code itself [...]
Effects of Dietary Schizochytrium Algae as ω-3 PUFA Source on the Egg-Laying Quail Performance, Serum Indexes, and Egg Yolk Fatty Acids Contents
Authors: Chang Yifan , Xuan Yue , Zhang Ruinan , Ding Xuemei , Zeng Qiufeng , Wang Jianping , Bai Shiping , Li Shanshan , Liu Yan , Chen Yuchuan , Zhang Keying
Published: December 2024

The objective of this experiment is to investigate the effects of SAP or SAO as ω-3 PUFA raw materials on production performance, egg quality, serum immunity, serum lipids, and fatty acid deposition patterns in the eggs of laying quails. Chinese yellow-feathered quails served as the experimental subjects. A single-factor design was employed to randomly assign 1288 quails into four treatment groups, with seven replicates per treatment and 46 birds in each replicate. The groups included a control group (basal diet with no SAP), 1.6% SAP, 3.2% SAP, and 0.8% SAP + 0.3% SAO. The results indicate that: (1) Compared to the control group, the 0.8% SAP + 0.3% SAO group exhibited a reduction in daily egg-laying rate and egg mass, alongside an increased FCR; (2) the 3.2% SAP group enhanced egg yolk color, while the 1.6% SAP group reduced eggshell thickness, and the 0.8% SAP + 0.3% SAO group increased eggshell thickness; (3) compared to the control group, the 3.2% SAP group decreased total cholesterol (TC) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in serum; the addition of either the 3.2% SAP or the 0.8% SAP + 0.3% SAO group significantly elevated quail serum immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels (p < 0.05); (4) in comparison to the control group, the addition of SAP or with SAP increased the contents of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and ω-3 PUFA in 56-day-old egg yolks while reducing the ω-6/ω-3 ratio (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that SAP as a source of ω-3 PUFA raw materials could improve quail health by improving lipid metabolism and immunity. 3.2% SAP was recommended as the optimal level to produce the enriched ω-3 PUFA quail eggs with the ω-3 PUFA ≥ 300 mg/100 g.
RNA-Seq and ATAC-Seq Reveal CYP26A1-Mediated Regulation of Retinoic Acid-Induced Meiosis in Chicken Primordial Germ Cells
Authors: Wang Zhaochuan , Chen Jiayi , Wen Jintian , Zhang Siyu , Li Yantao , Wang Jiali , Li Zhenhui
Published: December 2024

Retinoic acid (RA) plays a critical role in initiating meiosis in primordial germ cells (PGC), yet the specific mechanisms of its interaction with PGC remain unclear. In this study, we used an in vitro feeder-free culture system with chicken PGC as a model to explore the mechanisms by which RA induces the entry of PGC into meiosis. Results demonstrated that exogenous RA treatment altered the cell cycle distribution of PGC, significantly increasing the proportion of cells in the G1 phase and decreasing those in the G2 phase, suggesting that RA may promote the transition of PGC from proliferation to differentiation. Giemsa staining further revealed that chromosomes in a subset of RA-treated PGC exhibited meiotic characteristics. Through combined RNA-seq and ATAC-seq analyses, we identified that CYP26A1, a gene involved in RA degradation, was significantly upregulated in the RA-treated group, with enhanced accessibility in its chromatin regions. This finding suggests a robust mechanism for self-regulation of RA levels within PGC, indicating that CYP26A1 may play a pivotal role in the degradation of exogenous RA in chicken PGC. This study elucidated the effects of RA on chicken PGC and provided new insights into the role of RA in germ cell differentiation.
Effects of Dietary Protein Levels on Digestion, Metabolism, Serum Biochemical Indexes, and Rumen Microflora of Lanzhou Fat-Tailed Sheep
Authors: Jiao Na , Feng Wangmei , Ma Chi , Li Honghe , Zhang Junsong , Zheng Juanshan , Guo Penghui
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effect of varying levels of dietary protein on digestion, metabolism, serum biochemical indexes, and rumen microflora in Lanzhou fat-tailed sheep. A total of twenty 8-month-old healthy rams with an initial average body weight (BW 25.16 ± 1.09 kg) were selected and randomly divided into four dietary treatments with different protein levels P: 9.47%, MP: 10.53%, HP: 11.56%, and EHP: 12.61%. The rams underwent a 23 day adaptation period, and the experiment was conducted for 7 d. The results showed that with increased dietary protein levels, the apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and urine energy significantly increased (p < 0.05), increasing by 8.65%, 7.31%, 6.22%, and 0.1%, respectively. In contrast, the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) first increased and then plateaued with the increase in protein levels, and the digestibility of NDF in the HP group was the highest (p < 0.05). The Shannon, Simpson, Chao1, and Ace indices of rumen microorganisms in the four groups did not change significantly (p > 0.05). Additionally, at the phylum level, the relative abundance of Bacteroidota, Firmicutes, and Verrucomicrobiota collectively accounted for over 91% of the total phylum composition. At the genus level, there was an increase in the relative abundance of uncultured_rumen_bacterium and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group in the LP group, whereas the relative abundance of Prevotella decreased. In comparison to the other three groups, the HP group exhibited an increase in the relative abundance of Firmicutes. In summary, dietary protein level had no significant effects on the rumen microflora structure and blood biochemical indexes. However, diets with a high protein level can improve the apparent digestibility of nutrients and energy use efficiency of Lanzhou fat-tailed sheep.