bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multi-Angle Assessment of Leather Strength and Elasticity: Beyond Standard Parallel and Perpendicular Measurement
Authors: Efendioglu Nilay Ork 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Tensile strength and elongation are key mechanical properties of leather that reveal important aspects of its performance. Traditionally, these properties are measured using samples taken in two directions - parallel and perpendicular to the leather’s backbone line - and averaged. However, collagen fibers in leather are oriented in various directions and proportions throughout the material. Unlike fabrics, where shear behaviors are considered, leather’s shear strength is often overlooked in property evaluations. Considering leather as a fabric, shear strength becomes significant because garments are subjected to forces in multiple directions during use. No prior studies have investigated leather strength by considering all directions beyond the standard parallel and perpendicular measurements. This study examines whether tensile strength and elongation vary with sampling direction. Data were collected at 15° intervals around a 360° circle from garment sheep leather samples. Results reveal that tensile strength was generally higher in samples taken parallel to the backbone line, while elongation was lower in this direction. This study helps leather apparel companies optimize cutting techniques by revealing how tensile strength and elongation vary with sampling direction. Improved cutting decisions lead to better garment performance, fit, and durability, while also enhancing customer satisfaction.
Evolution of the social-economic profile of a Polish Paralympian from Heidelberg to Tokyo: A Study Protocol for a Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Sobiecka Joanna , Zwierzchowski Jakub B. , Zwierzchowska Anna 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The observation of sociodemographic characteristics is important for the characterization of Paralympic athletes and the identification of determinants of their athletic performance. The aim of this study was to present the changes that have occurred in the profile of the Polish Paralympian in the period from Heidelberg to Tokyo Paralympic Games based on basic demographic characteristics and selected social and sport-related features. The study included 652 Polish Paralympic athletes, accounting for 96.6% of the population from the 1972- 2021 Games. The research was conducted with the direct participant observation method using a diagnostic survey. Analysis of the data showed that gender was not a differentiating factor among Polish Paralympic athletes, and the proportion of women was lower than men. Still, age was a significant differentiating factor at (p<0.05). Furthermore, a significant differentiation of athletes in terms of the structure of education was observed, with a tendency to a steady increase in its level in subsequent years (chi2=68.83; df=8; p<0.01). However, this did not have a significant effect on their professional fulfillment. The proportion of multiple participants of the Paralympic Games increased significantly (chi2=21.43; df=8; p<0.01), while the proportion of athletes who won a Paralympic medal decreased (chi2=59.11; df=8; p<0.01).
Exploring the establishment of the long-spined sea urchin Centrostephanus sylviae in the Juan Fernández Archipelago, Chile: ecosystem threats and future conservation efforts in a biosphere reserve
Authors: Vera-Duarte Javier , Carrasco Sergio A. , Mettifogo Bianca , Gaymer Carlos F. , Friedlander Alan M. , Wahle Richard A. , Palma Álvaro , Hinojosa Iván A. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The Juan Fernández Archipelago (JFA) is a unique ecosystem due to its diversity and high endemism. In recent years there has been an increase in the populations of the endemic sea urchin Centrostephanus sylviae, generating negative impacts to the ecological and socio-economic systems of the archipelago. Here we describe the establishment of C. sylviae and the consequences of its overabundance on the subtidal communities, specifically around Robinson Crusoe and Santa Clara islands. The increase in abundance of C. sylviae and its community-level impacts (i.e., sessile benthic, macroinvertebrates, and fishes) were documented by visual surveys using scuba diving at various sites during January 2014 (12 sites), March 2017 (12 sites), March 2020 (4 sites), and January 2024 (7 sites). Over this time period the increase of C. sylviae abundance (~ 40-50%) was associated with a significant decrease in sessile biotic benthic cover and an increase in the percentage of barren grounds (40-95%). Additionally, a significant decrease in the abundance of the sea star Patiriella calcarata (100%) and the sea cucumber Mertensiothuria platei (80%) was observed, together with a decrease in the biomass of the endemic Juan Fernández wrasse Malapterus reticulatus (95%) and the endemic Juan Fernández trevally, Pseudocaranx chilensis (65%). Although the increase in urchin abundance has resulted in serious problems for the main economic activities of the archipelago (i.e., lobster fishery and recreational diving), it could also be considered an opportunity to diversify economic activity through the commercialization of the species, whose biological attributes make it an attractive gastronomic product. However, to create sustainable commercial exploitation, the ecological characteristics of the species and socioecological traits need to be understood to generate effective management and enforcement strategies. The results of the present study could serve as a baseline for exploring ongoing community changes in subtidal environments.
On the Performance of Large Language Models on Introductory Programming Assignments
Authors: Raihan Nishat , Goswami Dhiman , Puspo Sadiya Sayara Chowdhury , Siddiq Mohammed Latif , Newman Christian , Ranasinghe Tharindu , Santos Joanna C.S. , Zampieri Marcos 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and natural language processing (NLP) have led to the development of a new generation of Large Language Models (LLMs) trained on massive amounts of data. Commercial applications (e.g., ChatGPT) have made this available to the general public, enabling the use of LLMs to produce high-quality texts for academic and professional purposes. Educational institutions are increasingly aware of stu-dents’ use of AI-generated content and are researching its impact and potential misuse. Computer Science (CS) and related fields are particularly affected, as LLMs can also generate programming code in various languages. To understand the potential impact of publicly available LLMs in CS education, we extend our previously introduced CSEPrompts [1], a framework comprising hundreds of programming exercise prompts and multiple-choice questions from introductory CS and programming courses. We provide experimental results on CSEPrompts, evaluating the performance of several LLMs in generating Python code and answering basic computer science and programming questions, offering insights into the implications of this technology for CS education.
Full-body rotation measurements of micro-sized curved fibers in turbulence
Authors: Caridi Giuseppe C. A. , Giurgiu Vlad , De Paoli Marco , Soldati Alfredo 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study introduces a novel technique to measure full-body rotation rate in combination with Lagrangian tracking of anisotropic micro-sized fibers. By exploiting the geometric anisotropy of these fibers — specifically, their tapered shape for tumbling measurement and curvature for spinning quantification — we address a significant gap in the literature concerning gyro-tracking along fiber trajectories. Our analysis investigates how fiber geometry and imaging parameters impact the accuracy of full-body rotation measurements. By integrating synthetic data with experimental results, we assess the influence of magnification, sampling frequency and curvature of the fiber on the uncertainty of these measurements. Experimental results obtained in a channel flow environment demonstrate the method’s potential to accurately detect rotations of micro-fibers with lengths approaching the Kolmogorov scale.
The climatology of the ionospheric electron density peak parameters retrieved from the two COSMIC missions between 2007-2023
Authors: Farid A. I. Saad , Elshoukrofy A. Sh. M. , Aly Ayman A. , Fathy Adel 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

With the accumulation of the ionospheric Radio Occultation (RO) measurements provided by Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (COSMIC), it becomes accessible to use the long-term observations provided by their two COSMIC missions, namely COSMIC-1 and COSMIC-2, to exploit the ionospheric climatology research. As such, the spatial and temporal of diurnal, seasonal and annual variations of the electron density peak (NmF2 and hmF2) are investigated. The dataset used encompasses COSMIC observations spanning 16 consecutive years from Jan 2007 to Dec 2023, corresponding to the minimum phase of solar cycle 23 (2007–2008), complete solar cycle 24 (2009–2019) and the ascending phase of the solar cycle 25 (2020–2023). The present study emphasizes some of the preceding features that prescribed the morphology of the ionosphere. It showed that the NmF2 generally becomes fully developed in the afternoon time and enhanced to higher values in the dusktime hours, while the lowest levels are observed around post-sunset until the early morning. Further, the NmF2 variations exhibit semiannual pattern, with peak NmF2 values occurring during equinoxes. Whereas the hmF2 variations exhibit annual pattern peaks around summer in the northern hemisphere but around winter in the southern hemisphere. Results additionally verify that the long-term fluctuations in ionospheric electron density parameters are closely aligned with changes in the solar activity cycle. They also demonstrate that, irrespective of the season, the NmF2 saturates as the solar activity approaches higher levels. Besides, this dusktime NmF2 is always much higher and more pronounced in the northern hemisphere than the southern hemisphere irrespective season. The mechanism of the dusk side hemispheric asymmetry and saturation to be investigated in further studies. Consequently, our study extends previous research studies by identifying the long-term patterns of ionospheric parameters, which would be beneficial for constructing and developing well-defined ionospheric modeling.
Characterizing Motion States in the Restricted Five-Body Problem with Perturbing Forces.
Authors: Kumar A.K. Awasthi Sanjeev Sanjeev 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The n-body problem, a cornerstone of celestial mechanics, has been the subject of extensive research for centuries, with particular emphasis on the complexities of the three-body problem under various perturbations. These perturbations include oblateness, triaxiality, radiation pressure, and the effects of Coriolis and centrifugal forces. Recent advancements have shifted focus to systems involving more than three bodies, with notable work in the four-body problem. In this study, we extend the analysis to the five-body problem, examining its chaotic behavior and identifying regions of libration points. By varying the masses of the bodies across distinct surface points, we analyze the system’s dynamics, uncovering fractal zones within the problem. Additionally, we perform a stability analysis of the libration points, offering new insights into the behavior and stability of the five-body system. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of multi-body interactions and their implications in theoretical and applied contexts.
The influence of native shrub density on bird communities in the Central Drylands of California, USA
Authors: Hillier-Weltman Zoë , Lortie CJ , Zuliani Mario 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Interactions between key landscape features in desert ecosystems such as shrubs and other foundation plants can influence avian community assembly. Bird species often use resources and microhabitats provided by these shrubs for food, perching sites, and as thermal refuges. Citizen science data, such as eBird, are broadly accessible and can be used to examine fine-scale avian distribution. Coupling this accessible data with key factors, such as native shrubs, can be used for conservation practices. eBird data offers the opportunity to examine avian communities across regional ecological gradients. Using eBird, we tested the hypothesis that shrub density and relative differences in aridity among sites within this region shape the structure of bird communities throughout Central California drylands. Shrub density positively influenced the observation rates of avian communities sampled. Decreasing aridity increased the positive associations of birds with shrubs. Citizen science data such as eBird offers promise for testing predictions at fine spatial scales, and further research can explore availability and reporting of data for other regions - particularly in drylands subject to substantial pressures from climate change globally. Simple landscape features in drylands, such as native shrub density and cover, offer a viable path forward for avian community conservation and potential habitat restoration in drylands in the face of a changing climate and increasing desertification.
Genetics of faba bean yield and yield stability
Authors: Bornhofen Elesandro , Mouritzen Troels , Alves Sheila , Robertson-Shersby-Harvie Thomas Ramsay , Skovbjerg Cathrine , Windhorst Alex , Zhang Hailin , Jayakody Thilani , Magnin-Robert Jean-Bernard , Aubert Grégoire , Floriot Matthieu , Guiziou Camille , Sass Olaf , Welna Gregor , Solís Ignacio , Nielsen Linda , Gutiérrez Natalia , Jayakodi Murukarthick , Stoddard Frederick , O'Sullivan Donal , Torres Ana , Link Wolfgang , TAYEH Nadim , Janss Luc , Andersen Stig 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Faba bean is a globally adapted legume protein crop with a high yield potential. Currently, yield variation across environments limits more widespread cultivation and the underlying genetics remain unknown. Here, we identify major QTL for faba bean yield and yield stability. We genotype the ProFaba diversity panel with high resolution and carry out coordinated multi-year/location trials across Europe. Based on these data, we identify more than one hundred loci associated with mean performance and stability for 14 complex traits, including yield. Furthermore, we introduce a method for integrating environmental data in the analysis of trait stability, which enables prediction of performance in untested environments. Our work offers insights into the genetics underlying traits and trait stability in faba bean and provides the approaches and resources needed to drive future protein crop improvement.
Keep your tree above the water: competition and flooding drive the decline of Carya illinoinensis in the Upper Mississippi River
Authors: Férriz Macarena , Maxwell Justin T. , Harley Grant L. , King Daniel J. , King Karen E. , Au Tsun Fung , Vandermyde Benjamin J. , Stoff Brian , Luitel Beda 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Context Floodplain forests along the Upper Mississippi River System (UMRS) are highly influenced by the human-altered river flow regime. More intense and frequent floods are inducing decline in less flood-tolerant tree species. Of special concern is the situation of northern pecan tree (Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh. K.Koch)), which shows clear symptoms of decline (i.e. defoliation, mortality) and a lack of regeneration. Objective We attempt to investigate changes in C. illinoinensis decline and health and determine the biometric factors that lead to these differences. Methods We established 15 plots along the UMRS floodplain and within each plot, we recorded species composition, health status, diameter at breast height and tree location. Additionally, we collected increment cores to study the disturbance regime, and the effects of climate and river flow on radial growth. We applied a principal component analysis and a mixed effect regression model to determine the factors related to pecan health at site and individual level, respectively. Results Two major disturbance events occurred during the 20th century: in 1965 and 1993. Both events are related to extraordinary flow discharges in the river that led to significant tree mortality in the overstory. Pecans exhibited growth release after the disturbances, however, the incidence of recruitment for this species was very scarce during the 20th century. Our analysis revealed that plots with a higher proportion of healthy pecans are located in the southmost area, which is characterized by less frequent extraordinary floods and less stand competition. Conclusions We conclude that without oriented management efforts, pecans will eventually disappear from the northern extent of the species range soon, leading to a loss in tree diversity in the UMRS.
Effectiveness of low temperature storage on lipid nutritional quality of fish: A meta-analysis
Authors: Tan Karsoon , Huang Leiheng , Luo Cong , Choong KhaiHang , Cheong Kit-Leong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Fish are rich in n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have many health benefits for the human body. Food storage methods, especially low temperature storage, are key components in maintaining the lipid nutritional quality of seafood. Although many studies have been conducted on the effects of low temperature storage on fish lipids, the information is still poorly organized, and many useful detail (such as various lipid nutritional quality indices) were not extracted in most studies. Therefore, this study conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of short-term and long-term low temperature storage on the lipid nutritional quality of fish. The results of this study are very important as they provide guidance for consumers to select appropriate low temperature storing methods to better preserve the quality of fish lipids.
Unmasking Faces: Hybrid Attention Mechanisms for Robust Masked and Unmasked Face Recognition
Authors: Shahriari Babak , Yazdian-Dehkordi Mahdi , Ahmadi Ehsan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Face recognition, an important technology in biometric identification, encounters significant difficulties when facial features are partially occluded, especially by face masks that hide essential facial details. These challenges are addressed by proposing a novel hybrid approach designed to effectively manage both masked and unmasked face recognition. The approach incorporates fixed and adaptive prior attention mechanisms within a deep learning framework to enhance recognition accuracy. The fixed prior attention mechanism uses segmentation to filter out non-informative areas like backgrounds or masks, ensuring that the model concentrates only on the essential facial regions. At the same time, the adaptive prior attention mechanism employs the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) to dynamically highlight critical facial features necessary for accurate recognition, while minimizing attention to less relevant areas. This innovative approach is integrated with a customized ResNet architecture which enables the model to produce robust face embeddings crucial for accurate classification. Evaluations on benchmark datasets, including both masked and unmasked scenarios, demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.Additionally, an ablation study proves the contribution of each component within the system, showing valuable insights into their specific roles and effectiveness. The findings suggest that the proposed method has significant potential to enhance the reliability and accuracy of face recognition systems in real-world applications.
From Classroom to Action Training of New Staff in a New Specialty Hospital of a Non-Profit Organization
Authors: Camputaro Luis Alberto , Bórtoli Romina Georgina , Ortiz Jose Luis Tamayo , Torrez Alfonso Quispe , Rosales Luis Mario Campos , Garcia Mirian del Carmen Avalos 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

For the proper functioning of any health institution, it is necessary to unify and/or standardize the knowledge of its staff to achieve smooth teamwork, sharing the same language and criteria. This is even more necessary in health care work to provide the best patient care through an organized interdisciplinary team. Training in competencies, prioritizing the acquisition of practical skills while fostering theoretical self-education, has proven effective for health staff training, improving patient care. Acquiring the skills to detect life-threatening health conditions and their correct treatment and understanding the risk factors for unfavorable evolution are essential to provide timely treatment and avoid complications. Proper training is particularly relevant when a non-governmental hospital institution opens its doors and inaugurates its services to a specific community in the country's interior. To prepare staff for this new Non-Profit Organization (NPO) initiative, a hybrid training course that includes online theoretical classes and hands-on practical workshops was planned to train all the medical and paramedical staff of a new Specialty Hospital.
Patients’ perspectives: Factors affecting the provision of integrated care for patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus multi-morbidity in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Salato Sisay , Setswe Geoffrey 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Tuberculosis (TB) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represent growing public health challenges globally. Integrated care is important for effective management of this multi-morbidity. However, health systems face challenges in providing such services, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to assess patients’ perspectives on factors affecting the provision of integrated care for patients with TB and T2DM in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods
A health facility based cross-sectional study was conducted. A structured questionnaire was employed to conduct face-to-face interviews with randomly selected sample of 370 patients presenting with both pulmonary tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus multi-morbid patients. Information on patient socio-demographic characteristics and health system factors was collected. Data collection was conducted in accordance with ethical standards and with approval from the relevant ethics committees. Data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 27. Logistic regression was employed to identify factors associated with service integration, with a p value of less than 0.05 deemed statistically significant.
Results
A total of 357 respondents participated in this study, giving a response rate of 96.5%. The mean age of the respondents was 49.87 ± 14.046 years. A mere 13.4% (95% CI of 10.1–17.4%) of the respondents received integrated TB-T2DM services across 25% of the assessed facilities. Insufficient counseling on the proper use of medication (AOR = 2.6, CI: 1.1–6.6, p = 0.035) and the risk of TB for DM patients (AOR = 10, CI: 3.7–27, p < 0.001), unorganized TB-DM care (AOR = 4.1, CI: 1.7–10, p < 0.001), the absence of an integrated care policy (AOR = 6.9, CI: 2.7–17, p < 0.001), and a lack of continuity of care (AOR = 3, CI: 1.3–7.5, p = 0.016) were identified as health system factors affecting the integration of services.
Conclusion
The study revealed that the majority of patients in Addis Ababa had limited access to integrated tuberculosis-diabetes services. The identified health system factors pertaining to integration included insufficient counseling on medication and TB risk, unorganized care for TB and T2DM care, and a lack of continuity and policy integration. To improve integration, policymakers must prioritize integrating TB and diabetes strategies, ongoing evaluations to detect gaps, and broader qualitative research exploring patient perspectives across care settings.