bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast Algorithm for Cyber-Attack Estimation and Attack Path Extraction Using Attack Graphs with AND/OR Nodes
Authors: Levner Eugene , Tsadikovich Dmitry
Published: November 2024

This paper studies the security issues for cyber–physical systems, aimed at countering potential malicious cyber-attacks. The main focus is on solving the problem of extracting the most vulnerable attack path in a known attack graph, where an attack path is a sequence of steps that an attacker can take to compromise the underlying network. Determining an attacker’s possible attack path is critical to cyber defenders as it helps identify threats, harden the network, and thwart attacker’s intentions. We formulate this problem as a path-finding optimization problem with logical constraints represented by AND and OR nodes. We propose a new Dijkstra-type algorithm that combines elements from Dijkstra’s shortest path algorithm and the critical path method. Although the path extraction problem is generally NP-hard, for the studied special case, the proposed algorithm determines the optimal attack path in polynomial time, O(nm), where n is the number of nodes and m is the number of edges in the attack graph. To our knowledge this is the first exact polynomial algorithm that can solve the path extraction problem for different attack graphs, both cycle-containing and cycle-free. Computational experiments with real and synthetic data have shown that the proposed algorithm consistently and quickly finds optimal solutions to the problem.
Digitalization and Corporate Social Responsibility: A Case Study of the Moroccan Auto Insurance Sector
Authors: Abdallah-Ou-Moussa Soukaina , Wynn Martin , Kharbouch Omar , Rouaine Zakaria
Published: November 2024

The aim of this article is to explore the impact of digitalization on corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the automobile insurance sector in Morocco. This article first explores the theoretical and conceptual foundations of digital transformation and CSR. A mixed methods approach is then used, combining qualitative interviews with a wider quantitative survey, to investigate how digital innovations influence CSR practices. Interview analysis provides the basis for the development of a conceptual framework and eight hypotheses, which are then tested using quantitative techniques to analyze survey data. The results reveal several links between the benefits of digitalization and CSR. Claims management platforms, digital roadside assistance tools, and digital vehicle assessment and inspection all positively impact policyholders’ well-being in terms of compensation and asset preservation, thereby enhancing the CSR profile of automobile insurers. Similarly, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) training and simulation, as well as repair assistance, have positive impacts on policyholders’ well-being and advance the CSR positioning of automobile insurers. This article has limitations as it is based on a narrow industrial sector in a single country, but it nonetheless highlights certain relevant interrelationships between digitalization and CSR, contributing to the development of theory and practice in these research areas.
When the Caregivers Need Care: The Silent Stress of Human Resources Work
Authors: Kristinsson Kari , Gudmundsdottir Svala , Sigmarsdottir Edda Bjorg
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to examine the stress and pressure experienced by individuals working in human resources, focusing on the unique challenges that this work entails. This research is therefore guided by the question: what are the characteristics of work-related stress and burnout for individuals working in human resources? This study employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Initially, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight human resources professionals, comprising an equal number of women and men. Subsequently, a survey was administered to a broader group of human resources personnel. The quantitative analysis utilized the “Copenhagen Burnout Inventory” as a measurement tool, alongside background questions regarding the participants’ gender, age, job title, field of work, and seniority. The findings from both the qualitative and quantitative research indicate that employees in human resource roles exhibit significant stress symptoms. A majority of the interviewees reported experiencing mental and/or physical symptoms attributable to work-related stress. Specifically, the quantitative data revealed that 65.7% of the participants sometimes or often feel mentally exhausted, while 40.3% report similar levels of physical exhaustion. Notably, despite these challenges, only 8.7% of the participants identify as being burnt-out in their roles. The quantitative results also highlight gender as a significant factor affecting the mental and physical well-being of human resources employees, with women reporting lower levels of well-being compared to men.
Neurodivergence and Boundary Spanning as Predictors of Social Skills and Diversity Climate
Authors: van Rijswijk Jan , Curşeu Petru L. , van Oortmerssen Lise A.
Published: November 2024

We report a multilevel investigation of the interplay between neurodivergence and boundary-spanning activities in groups as predictors of social skills and diversity climate. In a sample of 357 group members nested in 70 organizational groups, we show that neurodivergence negatively affects conversational and work-related social skills. We also show that boundary spanning attenuates the association between neurodivergence and social skills. We discuss differences observed for within- as well as between-group effects and discuss the indirect association between neurodivergence and diversity climate as significantly mediated by conversational skills. Our study makes important contributions to the literature on neurodivergence in the workplace, showing the beneficial role of engaging in boundary-spanning activities.
Analyzing Consumer Motivations and Behaviors Towards Upcycled Food from an Environmental Sustainability Perspective
Authors: Huang Wen-Shin , Tsai Tzung-You , Lai Kung-Ling , Chen Han-Shen
Published: November 2024

Green energy consumption is a pressing global environmental issue that necessitates the optimization of food system circularity to effectively utilize natural resources. The rise of food technology has introduced upcycled food as a promising solution for reducing food waste and promoting sustainability. Despite its potential, research on consumer attitudes toward upcycled food remains scarce. This study investigates the role of upcycled food in shaping Taiwanese consumers’ behaviors in response to environmental challenges, utilizing the value–attitude–behavior (VAB) model with a focus on variables such as “product novelty”, “green perceived value”, and “ethical consumption”. Using convenience sampling, 297 valid responses were collected, achieving a response rate of 91.1%. Findings indicate that health values significantly enhance positive attitudes toward upcycled food, which in turn positively influences behavioral intentions. However, neither green perceived value nor product novelty significantly affected these intentions. These insights highlight the importance of prioritizing health values, consumer attitudes, and ethical consumption in marketing strategies for upcycled food to engage potential consumers and promote environmental sustainability. This study addresses a critical gap in the existing literature and suggests a strategic direction for the food industry.
Phenotypic Diversity of Morphological Traits of Pitahaya (Hylocereus spp.) and Its Agronomic Potential in the Amazonas Region, Peru
Authors: Santos-Pelaez Julio Cesar , Saravia-Navarro David , Cruz-Delgado Julio H. I. , del Carpio-Salas Miguel Angel , Barboza Elgar , Casanova Nuñez Melgar David Pavel
Published: November 2024

Pitahaya (Hylocereus spp.) is an economically significant cactus fruit in Peru, renowned for its rich nutritional profile and antioxidant properties while exhibiting wide biological diversity. This study aimed to morphologically characterize seven pitahaya accessions using qualitative and quantitative descriptors related to the cladodes, flowers, and fruits. Univariate and multivariate (FAMD, PCA, MCA, and clustering) analyses were employed to identify and classify the accessions based on their morphological traits. The analyses revealed three distinct groups: one consisting solely of AC.07; another with AC.02, AC.04, and AC.06; and a third including AC.01, AC.03, and AC.05. The first group exhibited superior characteristics, particularly in fruit traits such as the stigma lobe count (23.3), number of bracts (26.5 mm), and length of apical bracts (15.75 mm). The second group recorded the highest spine count (3.21), bract length (16.95 mm), and awn thickness (5.12 mm). The third group had the highest bract count (37) and an average locule number (23.65). These findings highlight the significant morphological diversity among the accessions, indicating the potential for classification and selection in pitahaya cultivation. The potential of AC.07 stands out in terms of its agronomic qualities, such as its fruit weight (451.93 g) and pulp weight (292.5 g), surpassing the other accessions.
The Effect of Digital Economy on Rural Environmental Governance: Evidence from China
Authors: Hou Jing , Li Xin , Chen Feiyu , Hou Bo
Published: November 2024

Exploring the inherent mechanisms by which the digital economy fosters rural environmental governance holds paramount importance for driving the sustainable development of rural regions and elevating the living standards of rural residents. Drawing upon theoretical frameworks and extensive literature reviews, we have devised comprehensive indicator systems for quantifying the development trajectory of the digital economy and the efficacy of rural environmental governance, employing the entropy method for measurement. Leveraging panel data that spans from 2011 to 2022, encompassing 31 provinces across China, we empirically delve into the influence of the digital economy on rural environmental governance, along with its underlying mechanisms, by employing a fixed effects model. The baseline regression results reveal that the development of the digital economy can significantly promote the improvement of rural environmental governance, even after considering potential endogeneity issues. Moreover, the test results of the mediation effect show that the digital economy can enhance the level of rural environmental governance by accelerating industrial structure optimization and improving green technology innovation. Furthermore, the test result of the regulatory effect implies that the urban–rural dual structure may inhibit the positive effect of the digital economy on rural environmental governance. Additionally, there exists regional disparities in which the digital economy influences rural environmental governance, with the eastern region exhibiting a more pronounced effect compared to other regions.
Antifungal Activity of Mexican Oregano (Lippia graveolens Kunth) Extracts from Industrial Waste Residues on Fusarium spp. in Bean Seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Cabral-Miramontes Juan Pablo , Martínez-Rocha Ana Lilia , Rosales-Castro Martha , Lopez-Rodriguez Angelica , Meneses-Morales Iván , Del Campo-Quinteros Esmeralda , Herrera-Ocelotl Karla Karina , Gandara-Moreno Guillermo , Velázquez-Huizar Sandra Jocelyn , Ibarra-Sánchez Leobardo , Ruiz-Baca Estela
Published: November 2024

Food security is essential to ensure everyone can access sufficient nutritious food. Cereals and legumes are fundamental foods worldwide. Phaseolus vulgaris L., the common bean, is an essential staple food in many nations worldwide. However, it is vulnerable to fusariosis, a disease caused by the fungus Fusarium spp. that can significantly decrease crop quality and yield. To combat plant diseases, industrial residues and plant residues are valuable due to their bioactive compounds with biotechnological applications. This study proposes using ethanolic extracts with phytochemical compounds, such as flavonoids, different from those reported in essential oils, to reduce the growth of Fusarium species both in vitro and in vivo. Industrial residues that are produced after extracting essential oils offer a promising alternative to develop organic biopesticides, promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture.
Design and Test of a Traction Side-Pull Square Straw Bale Pick-Up-and-Stack Truck
Authors: Zhao Yongli , Diao Peisong , Lu Zetan , Li Xianghao , Li Shaochuan , Wang Shanshan
Published: November 2024

To address the issues of limited one-time loading capacity, single functionality, and low automation level in existing square straw bale pickers, a large automated square straw bale pick-up-and-stack truck that integrates picking, stacking, transporting, and bundling functions has been developed, combining the technical advantages of one-time field removal and storage of bales. We innovatively designed a side-pulling traction mechanism that can realize the rapid transition between the transporting state and working state of the machine; a picking device that can complete the continuous action of forking, lifting, turning positioning, and de-forking; and a bundling device that can realize the adjustment of the attitude of square straw bales. Response surface tests were conducted on the prototype to determine the key structural and operational parameters, using the bundle completion rate and regular bale rate as evaluation indicators. Regression and significance tests were performed on the machine’s forward speed, chassis frame offset, and the ground clearance of the fork tine to determine the influence and priority of these factors on the evaluation indicators. Through multi-objective function optimization of the regression model, the optimal parameter combination was found to be a machine forward speed of 15.5 km/h, a chassis frame offset of 2126 mm, and a fork tine ground clearance of 225 mm, resulting in a bundle completion rate of 98.85% and a regular bale rate of 96.96%. Subsequent field tests with the optimized parameters showed that at a machine forward speed of 15.5 km/h, a chassis frame offset of 2126 mm, and a fork tine ground clearance of 225 mm, the bundle completion rate was 98.37% and the regular bale rate was 95.83%, meeting the relevant design requirements. This study can provide a reference for the design and development of straw collection and storage machinery.
Metaheuristic Optimization of Agricultural Machinery for the Colombian Carnation Industry
Authors: Cuenca Orozco Nixon , Gutiérrez Madrid Federico , Quintero Héctor Fabio
Published: November 2024

The flower-growing sector in Latin America presents significant health risks for workers, which highlights the need for technological updates in their production processes. Likewise, outdated machinery leads to losses that need to be avoided. The method of productive innovation developed in this document involves optimizing a mechanism of agricultural machinery used in carnation classification. The optimization is achieved by minimizing the jerk of the mechanism’s movement using metaheuristic methods. The results of three metaheuristic methods are compared against a brute force methodology. Optimization using these metaheuristic methods allows for achieving satisfactory results with up to 98% time reduction in the optimization process. This jerk optimization gives a longer useful life to the machinery, reduces the production stops needed for maintenance from once an hour to once every three hours, and reduces the damage done by the machine to the carnation stems.
Nutrition Rather Than Phytohormone-Dependent Defense of Host Plant Mediates the Different Response of Red- and Green-Morph Pea Aphids to Nitrogen Fertilization
Authors: Xu Shaoting , Li Xiaoling , Mao Runqian , Arthurs Steven P. , Ye Fengxian , Yan Hongyu , Gao Jing
Published: November 2024

Nitrogen fertilization is widely known to affect plant metabolism, which subsequently influences phytophagous insects through a bottom-up effect. The interplay between plants and insects is often overlooked in studies examining the effects of nitrogen fertilization on insect performance. Here, we assessed the performance of green and red morphs of pea aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum feeding on alfalfa Medicago truncatula with and without nitrogen fertilization and examined how nitrogen fertilization and aphid infestation affect plant amino acid composition and phytohormone-dependent defenses. The results showed that nitrogen fertilization significantly enhanced the growth rate and fecundity of the green-morph aphid but only slightly increased the growth rate of the red morph. The feeding behaviors of the two morphs of aphid were similarly inhibited by nitrogen fertilization, manifested as prolonged stylet pathway duration and shortened phloem ingestion duration. With nitrogen fertilization, the green-morph-aphid-infested plant accumulated more free amino acids, particularly essential amino acids, when compared with the red-morph aphid. Furthermore, the infestation of both morphs of aphid repressed the expression of genes involved in salicylic acid-dependent defense while enhancing those involved in jasmonic acid/ethylene signaling under nitrogen fertilization. These results suggest that nitrogen fertilization and aphid infestation interact in manipulating plant metabolism, with nutritional changes playing a vital role in the aphid morph-specific growth and fecundity response to nitrogen fertilization.
Selenium Utilization, Distribution and Its Theoretical Biofortification Enhancement in Rice Granary of China
Authors: Li Qian , Zheng Fan , Huang Xinying , Cai Minxia , Li Yifan , Liu Hongyan
Published: November 2024

Selenium, as an essential trace element, is intricately linked to the onset and progression of numerous diseases due to deficiencies in selenium intake. Selenium compounds exhibit tumor specificity and can efficiently inhibit the growth of tumor cells, making them potential candidates for cancer treatment. Nevertheless, given its status as one of the most widely consumed crops globally, increasing the selenium content in rice could prove advantageous in alleviating the prevailing issue of selenium intake deficiency, particularly in China. This review explored the regulatory role of selenium in rice growth, the regional distribution characteristics of soil selenium content in various rice-growing regions in China, and the impact of cultivation practices on selenium fortification in rice, aiming to suggest improved rice cultivation management strategies to enhance the capacity for rice selenium biofortification. The findings revealed that: (1) In Northeast and North China, characterized by alkaline soils and severe selenium deficiency, it is advisable to moderately decrease the duration of flooding, elevate the soil redox potential, and apply organic and nitrogen fertilizers in a judicious manner. (2) In Southwest China, which is characterized by acidic soils, alternating wet and dry irrigation should be employed, and the biofortification of selenium can be facilitated by applying lime and foliar spraying of selenium fertilizer. (3) In the south-central region of China, distinguished by acidic soils and double-cropped rice, it is recommended that intermittent or alternating wet and dry irrigation be employed, and the reasonable application of organic, silica, and selenium fertilizers is advocated. (4) In the northwest region, characterized by slightly alkaline soil and mild selenium deficiency, it is recommended to implement various water management practices, including shallow water during the seedling stage, deep water during the booting stage, and wet grain filling. Additionally, a rational application of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers, along with foliar application of selenium fertilizer, should be employed. (5) Cultivating selenium-enriched, high-yielding, and high-quality rice varieties proves to be an effective strategy in addressing selenium deficiency. In conclusion, the unique characteristics of diverse rice-growing regions in China indicate that suitable water management, fertilization techniques, and varietal selection practices can effectively enhance the selenium content in rice, thereby maximizing the nutritional requirements for selenium.
Cleaved Amplified Polymorphic Sequence Markers in Horticultural Crops: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Kulkarni Krishnanand P. , Appiah Richmond K. , Reddy Umesh K. , Melmaiee Kalpalatha
Published: November 2024

DNA markers have broad applications, including marker-assisted selection (MAS) for breeding new cultivars. Currently, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have become a preferred choice of markers for molecular geneticists and breeders. They offer many advantages, such as high abundance and coverage in the genome, codominant inheritance, locus specificity, and flexibility for high-throughput genotyping/detection formats, and they are relatively inexpensive. The availability of reference genome sequences enables precise identification of candidate genes and SNPs associated with a trait of interest through quantitative trait loci mapping and genome-wide association studies. Such SNPs can be converted into markers for their application in MAS in crop breeding programs. Cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) markers amplify short genomic sequences around the polymorphic endonuclease restriction site. This review provides insight into the recent advancements made in the development and application of CAPS markers in several horticultural plants. We discussed many new tools that aid faster and more accurate design of CAPS markers from the whole genome resequencing data. The developed CAPS markers offer immense application in germplasm screening and field trials, genomic loci mapping, identifying candidate genes, and MAS of important horticultural traits such as disease resistance, fruit quality and morphology, and genetic purity.
Integration of Biochar with Vermicompost and Compost Improves Agro-Physiological Properties and Nutritional Quality of Greenhouse Sweet Pepper
Authors: EL-Mogy Mohamed M. , Adly Mohamed A. , Shahein Mohamed M. , Hassan Hassan A. , Mahmoud Sayed O. , Abdeldaym Emad A.
Published: November 2024

Applying organic fertilizers is an issue that is acquiring high attention in modern agriculture. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the co-application of vermicompost and biochar on the growth performance and productivity of sweet pepper plants grown under greenhouse conditions. The applied treatments were as follows: 100% vermicompost (T1), 75% vermicompost + 25% biochar (T2), 50% vermicompost + 50% biochar (T3), 50% biochar + 50% compost (T4), 75% compost + 25% biochar (T5), and 100% compost (control-T6). All applied treatments were distributed randomly, and each treatment was repeated three times over two seasons. The data analysis revealed that the application of vermicompost—alone or in combination with biochar—significantly increased the plant growth measurements (plant height, SPAD value, leaf area, No. of leaves, and No. of branches), leaf nutrient content (N, P, K, and Ca), and total yield in both seasons. The application of vermicompost—alone (T1) or in combination with biochar (T2 and T3)—on average over both seasons significantly increased the total yield by 31.12%, 26.47%, and 22.53%, respectively, compared with the control treatment (T6). Furthermore, the aforementioned treatments also increased the physical quality (fresh fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, and flesh thickness) and chemical quality of sweet pepper fruits [total phenol content (TPC), total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid (AsA), β-carotenoids (β-Carot), and titratable acidity (TA)]. In addition, the co-application of biochar with vermicompost and compost caused a significant reduction in the fruit nitrate concentration compared with the control (T6) over two seasons. In conclusion, the simultaneous application of biochar with vermicompost and compost is a promising strategy to improve the growth performance, nutrition status, total yield, and fruit quality of pepper plants, as well as to reduce the nitrate concentration in the fruits.
Assessing the Risk of Spreading Clostridioides difficile and Its Toxins Within the Dairy Farm
Authors: Filippova Valentina A. , Ilina Larisa A. , Yildirim Elena A. , Ponomareva Ekaterina S. , Kluchnikova Irina A. , Dubrovin Andrey V. , Kalitkina Ksenia A. , Zaikin Vasiliy A. , Laptev Georgy Y.
Published: November 2024

Clostridioides difficile currently constitutes a major pathogen of the gastrointestinal tract, which poses a significant growing burden on medicine and veterinary medicine in many regions. A farm was assessed (feed table, silage pit, and feces (healthy animals, emaciated animals, and animals with mastitis)) for the presence of C. difficile toxins using the PCR method and for the microbiome in cow feed and feces using NGS technology, one month apart. C. difficile toxin A and binary toxin were detected in feed samples. C. difficile toxin genes were found in the feces of sick animals two to three times more often than in healthy animals. Analysis of the microbial community of cow feces revealed that, during the month, the animals experienced major changes in the community structure associated with the accumulation of pathogenic bacteria, in particular Paeniclostridium sp., as well as with the development of methanogenic archaea of the Methanobacteriaceae and associated microorganisms (Lachnospiraceae and Anaerovoracaceae), which may speak of a decrease in feed efficiency and, subsequently, animal productivity. Thus, it seems likely that C. difficile enters the gastrointestinal tract of animals through feed, while animals weakened by diseases are more sensitive to the reproduction of pathogens in the GIT due to a weakened organism.
Dentex maroccanus Valenciennes, 1830 Otolith Morphology, Age, and Growth in the Aegean Sea (E. Mediterranean)
Authors: Legaki Aglaia , Leonhard Isabella , Mytilineou Chryssi , Anastasopoulou Aikaterini
Published: November 2024

Otoliths are important structures for balance and hearing of fish and constitute a useful tool in fisheries science. This study provides, for the first time in the Mediterranean, information on the otolith morphometrics of Dentex maroccanus, collected from the South Aegean Sea, and enriches the existing information on its age and growth by sex. The otolith shape variables examined showed a more circular to square otolith shape, related to the body size. Significant differences between sexes were detected for the otolith Area, Diameter, Perimeter, and Radius. Exponential regressions were used to examine the relationship of the otolith variables with total body length, from which five showed a strong correlation (Diameter, Width, Radius, Area, and Perimeter). The eviscerated weight–length relationship exhibited an isometric growth for both sexes, whereas when total weight was applied, a positive allometric growth was found for females. Sagittal otolith readings revealed four age groups for females and five for males. A Bhattacharya method was used for age validation. Von Bertalanffy growth parameters were as follows: L∞ = 23.08, k = 0.27, t0 = −1.93 for females and L∞ = 24.07, k = 0.24, t0 = −2.26 for males. This research offers valuable biological information for Dentex maroccanus useful in fisheries science.
Genomic Insights into Pig Domestication and Adaptation: An Integrated Approach Using Genome-Wide Selection Analysis and Multiple Public Datasets
Authors: Zhang Haoyuan , Ruan Pengcheng , Cong He , Xu Lu , Yang Baigao , Ren Tao , Zhang Dongjie , Chen Hongyue , Hu Pengfei , Wang Zhen , Pan Hongmei , Yang Xiuqin , Han Yanguo , Zeng Yan , Zhao Yongju , Liu Di , Ceccobelli Simone , E Guangxin
Published: November 2024

As a global focus of animal husbandry, pigs provide essential meat resources for humans. Therefore, analyzing the genetic basis of adaptability, domestication, and artificial selection in pigs will contribute to further breeding. This study performed a genome-wide selection sweep analysis to identify candidate genes related to domestication and adaptive selection via data from 2413 public genotypes. Two complementary statistical analyses, FST (fixation index) and XP–EHH (cross–population extended haplotype homozygosity) were applied. The results revealed that numerous candidate genes were associated with high-altitude adaptability (e.g., SIRPA, FRS2, and GRIN2B) and habitat temperature adaptability (e.g., MITF, PI3KC2A, and FRS2). In addition, candidate genes related to the domestic genetic imprint of indigenous pigs (e.g., TNR, NOCT, and SPATA5) and strong artificial selection pressure in commercial breeds (e.g., ITPR2, HSD17B12, and UGP2) were identified in this study. Specifically, some MHC–related genes (e.g., ZRTB12, TRIM26, and C7H6orf15) were also under selection during domestication and artificial selection. Additionally, a phylogenetic comparative analysis revealed that the genetic divergence between populations does not fully follow the geographical distribution and management history in the major histocompatibility complex region/major histocompatibility complex II haplotypes, unlike that of the genome-wide genotypes. Furthermore, the higher heterozygosity and haplotype alleles of MHC reduce the differences between populations. Briefly, this study not only helps promote the relative theoretical understanding of environmental adaptive selection and domestication but also provides a theoretical reference for disease-resistant breeding in pigs.
Evaluation of the Accuracy of 3D Printed Patient-Specific Brain Biopsy Guide Using 3D Volume Rendering Technique in Canine Cadavers
Authors: Jeong Minseung , Ko Jongchan , Yu Yong , Heo Suyoung
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of a CT-based, 3D-printed, patient-specific brain biopsy guide (3D-psBBG) through the application of a transfrontal approach in canine cadavers. A total of ten canine cadavers, with weights ranging from 4.36 to 14.4 kg, were subjected to preoperative CT scans to generate 3D skull models. Customized biopsy guides were created based on these models and manufactured using 3D printing technology. Twenty spinal needle insertions were performed, and the accuracy of needle placement was evaluated through both CT and 3D volume-rendering techniques. The mean needle placement error was 2.1 mm, with no significant differences observed between insertions targeting the fronto-olfactory and piriform lobes. The 3D volume-rendering method demonstrated superior accuracy compared to the CT method, with statistically significant differences in placement errors for both targets. The average time required for the design and manufacture of the guides was 249 min. These findings indicate the high accuracy and potential clinical application of CT-based 3D-psBBG for improving diagnostic outcomes in veterinary neurology.
Heart Rate Variability in Basketball: The Golden Nugget of Holistic Adaptation?
Authors: Sánchez Rubén Portes , Alonso-Pérez-Chao Enrique , Calleja-González Julio , Jiménez Sáiz Sergio L.
Published: November 2024

The main aim of this narrative review is to assess the existing body of scientific literature on heart rate variability (HRV) in relation to basketball, focusing on its use as a measure of internal load and vagal nerve responses. Monitoring HRV offers insights into the autonomic function and training-induced adaptations of basketball players. Various HRV measurement protocols, ranging from short-term to longer durations, can be conducted in different positions and conditions, such as rest, training, and sleep, to determine this key metric. Consistency and individualization in measurement protocols, responding to the athlete’s specific characteristics, is crucial for reliable HRV data and their interpretation. Studies on HRV in basketball have explored psychological adaptation, training effects, individual differences, recovery, and sleep quality. Biofeedback techniques show positive effects on HRV and anxiety reduction, potentially enhancing performance and stress management. The scientific literature on HRV in basketball could benefit from studies involving longer monitoring periods to identify significant trends and results related to training and recovery. Longitudinal HRV monitoring in teams with intense travel schedules could reveal the impact on athletes of all levels and ages, and, in this regard, individualized interpretation, considering the subjective recovery and fitness levels of athletes, is recommended to optimize training programs and performance. HRV provides insights into training and competitive loads, aiding in determining exercise intensities and training status. Additionally, HRV is linked to recovery and sleep quality, offering valuable information for optimizing player performance and well-being. Overall, HRV is a reliable tool for adjusting training programs to meet the specific needs of basketball players.
Unique Triboelectric Nanogenerator Using Carbon Nanotube Composite Papers
Authors: Okochi Kazuki , Oya Takahide
Published: November 2024

A unique triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) using carbon nanotube (CNT) composite papers is proposed in this work. CNT composite papers can be fabricated easily using a method based on the production of Japanese washi paper. To obtain and evaluate the proposed TENGs, several types of CNT composite papers and aluminum plates were prepared. As the CNT composite paper contained many paper fibers, it was expected to be negatively charged, and the aluminum plate was expected to be positively charged across the triboelectric series. Through various experiments, it was confirmed that CNT composite papers could be used as TENGs. In addition, it was found that when a CNT composite paper was used, it contributed to triboelectricity generation, and the contained CNTs efficiently transferred the generated charge to the electrodes. Furthermore, output voltages approaching a maximum RMS value of 300 mV could be obtained. The results of this study will aid in the practical application of paper-based TENGs in the near future.
Exploring Kinematic Variations in Clear Hip Circle to Handstand: A Case Study of Performance Styles on Uneven Bars
Authors: Petković Emilija , Bubanj Saša , Atiković Almir , Aksović Nikola , Bjelica Bojan , Preljević Adem , Stanković Dušan , Dobrescu Tatiana , Moraru Cristina-Elena
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: This case study analyzed the successful performances of female gymnasts in the finals of the 39th and 40th World Cup in Maribor (SLO). The aim was to identify variations in their execution of the Clear Hip Circle to Handstand (CHCH) on uneven bars based on kinematic parameters. (2) Methods: This study involved elite female gymnasts from the 39th (n = 5, age: 17 ± 6 months) and 40th (n = 8, age: 17.5 ± 6 months) World Cups, totaling 13 gymnasts. Kinematic analysis was performed on 15 successful routines using the Ariel Performance Analysis System (Ariel Dynamics Inc., San Diego, CA). The analysis focused on 16 anthropometric reference points and 8 body segments, including the body mass center of gravity (CG). The main reference points analyzed were the hip joint, the shoulder joint, and the CG along the xy-axes. Trajectory, velocity, angle, and angular velocity of the hips and shoulders were calculated. Pearson correlation analysis was employed to assess the relationships between the kinematic variables. (3) Results: High intercorrelations between the reference points along the xy-axes (0.81–0.99) and optimal movement velocity were found. Dispersed results were observed for kinematic parameters of angle (0.10–0.16) and angular velocity of the hip joints (0.60–1.00), with similar dispersions for shoulder joints (0.51–1.00). Three distinct techniques were identified: (1) stretched body with minimal hip joint flexion throughout; (2) extended body with a short, quick hip joint extension during shoulder movement; and (3) hyperextension in the hip joint. (4) Conclusions: The kinematic analysis revealed three different performance styles of the CHCH among finalists. These variations in technique do not affect the success of the performance. This research contributes to a better understanding of the technique but does not prefer one style over another.
Ontology-Based Spatial Data Quality Assessment Framework
Authors: Yılmaz Cemre , Cömert Çetin , Yıldırım Deniz
Published: November 2024

Spatial data play a critical role in various domains such as cadastre, environment, navigation, and transportation. Therefore, ensuring the quality of geospatial data is essential to obtain reliable results and make accurate decisions. Typically, data are generated by institutions according to specifications including application schemas and can be shared through the National Spatial Data Infrastructure. The compliance of the produced data to the specifications must be assessed by institutions. Quality assessment is typically performed manually by domain experts or with proprietary software. The lack of a standards-based method for institutions to evaluate data quality leads to software dependency and hinders interoperability. The diversity in application domains makes an interoperable, reusable, extensible, and web-based quality assessment method necessary for institutions. Current solutions do not offer such a method to institutions. This results in high costs, including labor, time, and software expenses. This paper presents a novel framework that employs an ontology-based approach to overcome these drawbacks. The framework is primarily based on two types of ontologies and comprises several components. The ontology development component is responsible for formalizing rules for specifications by using a GUI. The ontology mapping component incorporates a Specification Ontology containing domain-specific concepts and a Spatial Data Quality Ontology with generic quality concepts including rules equipped with Semantic Web Rule Language. These rules are not included in the existing data quality ontologies. This integration completes the framework, allowing the quality assessment component to effectively identify inconsistent data. Domain experts can create Specification Ontologies through the GUI, and the framework assesses spatial data against the Spatial Data Quality Ontology, generating quality reports and classifying errors. The framework was tested on a 1/1000-scale base map of a province and effectively identified inconsistencies.
Antioxidant and Protective Effects of Oleaster Oil Against Silica Nanoparticle-Induced Oxidative Stress and Organ Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Hamdiken Malika , Bouzitouna Amina , Hami Manel , Seridi Yousra , Grara Nedjoud , Ayed Hayette , Boudjahem Abdelghani , Zebsa Rabah , Di Pierro Prospero , Balivo Andrea , Genovese Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Nanoparticles have found widespread application in a variety of fields, despite growing worry about their possible hazardous effects on both the environment and human health. In recent years, research efforts have focused on plants and vegetable oils, which have been identified as abundant sources of many bioactive compounds. Many of these substances are known to participate in antioxidant processes. As a result, the current study was designed to investigate the antioxidant and protective properties of oleaster oil against cytotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) in albino Wistar rats. Forty male rats were randomly assigned to four equally sized cohorts: a control group, SiNP-treated group (at a dose of 50 mg/kg), SiNP-treated group supplemented with oleaster oil (at a dose of 2 mL/kg), and those receiving only 2 mL/kg of oleaster oil. The findings demonstrated that SiNPs initiated an oxidative stress environment, as evidenced by higher lipid peroxidation levels and changes in antioxidant defense mechanisms. Antioxidant enzymes were significantly reduced, including glutathione levels between the control and SiNP-exposure treatments (36.01%, 36.59%, 60%), glutathione-S-transferase (29.74%, 29.90%, 13.49%), catalase (24.14%, 28.19%, 30.85%), and tissue superoxide dismutase (11.90%, 37.78%, 37.79%) in the liver, kidney, and heart, respectively. Furthermore, histological investigations revealed significant liver, kidney, and heart damage, as indicated by pathological alterations such as vascular dilatation and congestion, inflammatory cellular infiltration, and hepatocellular dysfunction. Encouragingly, the administration of oleaster oil significantly ameliorated a majority of these detrimental effects. These data suggest a potential protective effect of oleaster oil against the adverse histological effects induced by SiNP injection.
FaceReader Insights into the Emotional Response of Douro Wines
Authors: Marques Catarina , Vilela Alice
Published: November 2024

Understanding consumers’ emotional responses to wine is essential for improving marketing strategies and product development. Emotions play a pivotal role in shaping consumer preferences. This study investigates the emotional reactions elicited by different types of Douro wines (white, red, and Port) through facial expression analysis using FaceReader software, version 9.0 (Noldus Information Technology, Wageningen, The Netherlands). A total of 80 participants tasted six wine samples, and their facial expressions were recorded and analyzed. FaceReader quantified the intensity of emotions such as happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, fear, and disgust. Arousal levels were also assessed. The results were analyzed through principal component analysis (PCA) to identify patterns and groupings based on emotional responses. White wines evoked more sadness due to their acidity, while red wines were associated with lower levels of sadness and greater comfort. Port wines elicited surprise, probably due to their sweet and fortified nature. Additionally, female participants showed consistently higher arousal levels than males across all wine types. The study highlights distinct emotional profiles for each type of wine and suggests that demographic factors, such as gender, influence emotional responses. These insights can inform targeted marketing and enhance the consumer experience through better alignment of wine characteristics with emotional engagement.
Optimization of Dynamic Characteristics of Rubber-Based SMA Composite Dampers Using Multi-Body Dynamics and Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Huang Yizhe , Fan Qiyuan , Zhang Huizhen , Shao Lefei , Shi Yuanyuan
Published: November 2024

The suspension system of a commercial vehicle cab plays a crucial role in enhancing ride comfort by mitigating vibrations. However, conventional rubber suspension systems have relatively fixed stiffness and damping properties, rendering them inflexible to load variations and resulting in suboptimal ride comfort under extreme road conditions. Shape memory alloys (SMAs) represent an innovative class of intelligent materials characterized by superelasticity, shape memory effects, and high damping properties. Recent advancements in materials science and engineering technology have focused on rubber-based SMA composite dampers due to their adjustable stiffness and damping through temperature or strain rate. This paper investigates how various structural parameters affect the stiffness and damping characteristics of sleeve-type rubber-based SMA composite vibration dampers. We developed a six-degree-of-freedom vibration differential equation and an Adams multi-body dynamics model for the rubber-based SMA suspension system in commercial vehicle cabins. We validated the model’s reliability through theoretical analysis and simulation comparisons. To achieve a 45% increase in stiffness and a 64.5% increase in damping, we optimized the suspension system’s z-axis stiffness and damping parameters under different operating conditions. This optimization aimed to minimize the z-axis vibration acceleration at the driver’s seat. We employed response surface methodology to design the composite shock absorber structure and then conducted a comparative analysis of the vibration reduction performance of the optimized front and rear suspension systems. This study provides significant theoretical foundations and practical guidelines for enhancing the performance of commercial vehicle cab suspension systems.
Optimization Processes in Automotive Logistic Flow
Authors: Popa Cicerone Laurentiu , Seileanu Floarea-Loredana , Cotet Costel Emil , Chiscop Florina , Popescu Constantin-Adrian
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a logistic flow of assembling automotive rear axles. The product is presented in detail starting from the detailed research and analysis of relevant documentation about its functionality, including the manufacturing logistic flow diagram and the required equipment for the product manufacturing and assembly. This study is focused on optimizing the logistic flow for the manufacturing and assembly of automotive rear axles using WITNESS Horizon for system modeling and simulation in order to conduct system diagnostics, identify problems, and find solutions that will facilitate the optimization process. The study included a comprehensive assessment of the logistic flow, highlighting the performance of the equipment involved and identifying potential bottlenecks. Using the results obtained after the simulations, the Simplex linear mathematical method was applied to maximize production efficiency and profitability, considering the suppliers’ capacity constraints and the components’ delivery requirements. The results demonstrated a significantly optimized rear-axle production process, with increased profitability and improved productivity by eliminating identified bottlenecks. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities within the automotive industry and provides a solid foundation for continuously improving manufacturing and assembly processes.