bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two new species of Icaleptes (Opiliones: Laniatores: Icaleptidae) from Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia
Authors: PEREIRA MARIA PAULA , PORTO WILLIANS , MOYA-GUERRA NATALIA ANDREA DE , MARTÍNEZ-HERNÁNDEZ NEIS JOSÉ , PÉREZ-GONZÁLEZ ABEL
Published: January 2025

The genus Icaleptes was proposed by Kury & Pérez-González in 2002 to accommodate a single Colombian species, Icaleptes malkini, collected in the southeastern slope of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Cesar Department. In this study, we describe two new species for this previously monotypic genus collected on the northwestern slope of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, in the department of Magdalena. The new species Icaleptes dimorphicus sp. nov. and Icaleptes armasi sp. nov. were included within Icaleptes based on external and genital similarities such as male scutum magnum continuously convex and lacking the sulci; pedipalps with highly reduced setae; chelicerae stout and unarmed with a low, wide bulla; capsula externa of the penis modified into a robust stragulum with two widely separated apical lobes and a wide capsula interna visible from the dorsal aspect with a well-developed parastylar collar. In contrast to Icaleptes malkini, the two new species have the ventral plate of the penis differentiated into two regions, which we interpreted here as a wide pergula basally and a short stout rutrum apically. The new species also have other remarkable sexual dimorphisms such as males with a strong protuberance on coxa IV, an arched movable finger in the chelicerae, and enlarged basitarsomeres on leg III. The modification of coxa IV in males is a strong diagnostic character that facilitates the identification of both new species. The description of two new species that are closely related to the type species Icaleptes malkini helps us to understand the morphological variation of the current concept of Icaleptidae.
MicroCT Scan visualization of femur IV apophyses: a promising tool for phylogenetic reconstruction in K92, exemplified by a new species of Cajango (Arachnida: Opiliones: Gonyleptidae)
Authors: KURY ADRIANO B. , GRANADO ALEXIA DE A.
Published: January 2025

In this study, we utilize microCT scan technology to investigate the morphology of femur IV in a new species of the genus Cajango, a member of the clade K92 of Gonyleptidae. The femur IV in males of K92 is often characterized by heavy spiniform apophyses arranged in longitudinal rows, referred to as armature. We discuss the potential of this technique to enhance future phylogenetic analyses by providing additional morphological characters. Cajango ednardoi sp. nov. is described from the Biological Reserve of Mata Escura, situated in the middle course of the Jequitinhonha River in eastern Brazil. This reserve falls within WWF Ecoregion NT0104 (Bahia interior forests). The genus Cajango already includes three other species, all of which are found along the northern bank of the Jequitinhonha River, but considerably closer to the coast in Bahia state, within NT0103 (Bahia coastal forests). The discovery of the new species extends the combined range of the genus further westward, marking its first recorded occurrence within the state of Minas Gerais. Additionally, it appears to be restricted to altitudes between 750 and 1100 meters, whereas most records of the other three species are from altitudes below 600 meters. The new species is most similar in general appearance to Cajango pestifer Kury & Bernabé, 2023. However, the armature of the male femur IV is more profuse, and the male genitalia do not share the extremely elongated ventral plate with deep cleft found in all other Cajango species. This suggests that the new species may represent the earliest branch of the genus, standing as the sister-group to all others, which, in turn, share slender femur IV and specialized genitalia.
Three new species of Paecilaemella (Cosmetidae: Flirteinae) from the upper Amazonian Basin
Authors: MEDRANO MIGUEL , CARAMORI LAURA R. , KURY ADRIANO B.
Published: January 2025

The recent revalidation of Paecilaemella Roewer, 1925 as a valid genus, along with the inclusion of Gonyleptes multimaculatus Wood, 1869, and Protus ornatus Roewer, 1912, in this previously monotypic genus, and its placement in the subfamily Flirteinae, represent significant advances in our understanding of this cosmetid genus and its subfamily. In this study, we further expand our knowledge by describing three new species of Paecilaemella from the Colombian (Paecilaemella andi sp. nov.) and Ecuadorian Amazon forest (Paecilaemella armasi sp. nov. and Paecilaemella geminorum sp. nov.). These three species are distinguishable from its congeners by a striking pattern of spots on the dorsal scutum, resembling the zodiac sign of Gemini. Males of these species share common characteristics, including non-hypertelic chelicerae, an armed distal region of femur IV, extremely elongated basitarsomeres in leg I, and a penis with a basal pair of MS A. Given the limited knowledge of other species in the genus, these characters will require further study to assess whether they represent synapomorphies of the genus.
Neural network adaptive admittance control for improving position/force tracking accuracy of fracture reduction robot
Authors: Wang Zhuangzhuang , Lei Jingtao , Zheng Gongliang
Published: January 2025

The accuracy of fracture reduction robot is critical factor for clinical application. In this study, a neural network adaptive admittance control (NNAAC) system is proposed to improve the position/force tracking accuracy of the robot under large variable reduction forces and uncertain robot dynamic models. The NNAAC consists of an inner loop and an outer loop. The inner loop combines inverse dynamics control (IDC) and radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) to compensate for inaccuracies in the dynamic model, and an admittance parameter adaptive controller based on the RBFNN in the outer loop improves force tracking accuracy and stability. The performance of the NNAAC is evaluated by fracture model reduction experiments, comparing it with the inverse dynamics control and constant admittance control. The experimental results show that the NNAAC achieves better control effectiveness and high accuracy with a maximum reduction force of 190 N. Specifically, the proposed controller exhibits a maximum position error of less than 1 mm and a maximum orientation error of less than 0.5°.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Endoscopic Continuous Perfusion Combined With Y-Shaped Incision and Microscopic Retroauricular Incision in the Treatment of Attic Cholesteatoma: A Randomized Prospective Study
Authors: Yan Qi , Wang Ying , Xu Li , Liu Baoxu , Sun Haiyong , Zhu Bin , Guan Bing
Published: January 2025

Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of continuous perfusion of underwater bone grinding combined with a Y-shaped incision versus a microscopic posterior ear incision in the treatment of attic cholesteatoma. Study Design: Clinical trials were prospective studies from the Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital. Research Object: Adult patients with middle ear cholesteatoma requiring ear surgery agreed to participate between September 2019 and September 2023 (age > 18). The procedure utilized hard otoendoscopy with diameters of 2.7 mm, and angles of 0°, 30°, 45°, and 75°, along with absorbable microstripping ions, attractive knives, and various microinstruments. The preoperative evaluation included high-resolution computerized tomography (CT) of the temporal bone, pure tone audiometry, and hard otoscopy. The main outcome measures included the diagnosis of residual or recurrent disease through clinical examination and/or magnetic resonance imaging consistent with cholesteatoma. Intraoperative operation time, postoperative complications, postoperative pain scores, and preoperative and postoperative hearing test results were recorded. Results: A total of 80 ears were included in the study (79 patients). The mean ages for the experimental and control groups were 46.70 ± 9.86 and 48.53 ± 11.63 years, respectively. All surgeries were performed under general anesthesia. The most common sites of cholesteatoma were the posterior superior tympanic chamber (n = 75, 94%), anterior superior tympanic chamber (n = 42, 53%), posterior middle tympanic chamber (n = 25, 31%), and tympanic antrum (n = 23, 28.7%). Intraoperative ossicular chain reconstruction was performed in 64 cases (86%). The follow-up period ranged from 13 to 48 months, with an average of 30 months. The recurrence rates of cholesteatoma were 5.26% (n ≤ 2) and 11.9% (n ≤ 5) in the experimental and control groups, respectively. Conclusions: Treatment of intramastoid cholesteatoma using otoscopic continuous perfusion underwater bone grinding combined with a Y-shaped incision offers several advantages over the removal of middle ear cholesteatoma via otomicroscopic incision. These advantages include better hearing recovery, shorter operative time, smaller incisions, faster postoperative recovery, less postoperative pain, and reduced surgical bleeding.
The use of three-dimensional media in the shape of the Earth’s surface to optimize the knowledge of blind students in social science subjects
Authors: Prasetya Sukma Perdana , Hidayati Armawati , Khamid Abdul , Lailiyah Faridatul , Prastiyono Hendri Prastiyono
Published: January 2025

The aims of this research are to (1) produce three-dimensional (3D) media suitable for use and (2) analyze responses and learning outcomes for blind students who use 3D media in the Earth’s shape. The subjects of this study included 16 blind students in class VII SMPLB-A Gebang Putih Surabaya and SLBN Kalirejo Bojonegoro, East Java Province, Indonesia. The feasibility level of the media is based on assessments from learning media and material experts using validation sheets from media experts and material experts. They collect data on the responses of blind students using student response questionnaires. Collecting data on learning outcomes of blind students uses tests carried out through pre-test and post-test activities. The media feasibility data analysis technique uses a four-category Likert-type scale adopted from Mardapi. The responses of blind students were analyzed using a five-category Likert-type scale adopted from Sugiyono. Learning outcomes were analyzed using the n-gain test and paired sample t-test. The study results stated that 3D media in the form of the Earth’s surface received a feasibility assessment by learning media experts in the very feasible category. The blind students responded very well to using 3D media in the form of the Earth’s surface in social science subjects. In the aspect of knowledge in the form of learning outcomes, it has high effectiveness, and there is a significant difference between before and after applying 3D media in the shape of the Earth. Through 3D media, Blind students can experience visual experiences using 3D media. By holding and touching objects in 3D media, they can feel their shape, size, and texture.
Chronic Absenteeism in Detroit’s Brightmoor Neighborhood: Addressing Systemic & Structural Inequities Through Participatory Action Research
Authors: Edwards Erica B. , Taylor Michelle D. , Bell Johnnetta , Lenhoff Sarah Winchell , Mickens Jerrica , Foster Imani , Sweeney Molly
Published: January 2025

This study highlights the efforts of a Detroit-based community research group to understand chronic absenteeism in a way that acknowledges its underlying complexities. Employing Participatory Action Research, an intergenerational team of community members and university researchers examined the disconnect between educators’ strategies for addressing chronic absenteeism and students’ lived experiences with barriers to regular attendance. The findings reveal a school environment characterized by a punitive attendance framework that constrained teachers’ ability to address absences effectively and allowed school leaders to shift responsibility elsewhere. In contrast, students who experienced chronic absenteeism articulated a vision for improving attendance through specific structural pathways, school improvement, and social-emotional support. The discussion emphasizes the need for strategies that uphold students’ dignity and support educators’ capacity to move beyond punitive attendance policies.
Down the “Black Hole” of Sexual Violence in the Brussels Nightlife: A Qualitative Exploration of Social Media Testimonials
Authors: Fernandes Danielle , Meeûs Maïté , Coene Gily
Published: January 2025

The Instagram account (@Balance_ton_bar) highlighted the issue of sexual violence in Brussels nightlife sharing testimonials from victim-survivors. Set up in response to reports of drug-facilitated sexual assault at nightlife establishments, the account aimed to raise awareness and hold establishments accountable. This study examines these testimonials to explore how violence was perpetrated—through chemical drugging, alcohol use, isolation, and social power—the socio-emotional consequences for victim-survivors, and their journeys in seeking support. Key insights reveal (a) the demand for long-term, trauma-informed care, (b) the role of digital platforms for healing and activism, and (c) the need for community-level, norms-focused preventive actions to effectively combat sexual violence across European nightlife settings.
Does the Nutrient Adequacy Ratio (NAR) Predict Metabolic Profile and Glycemic Status Among the Obese Population?
Authors: Ghaffari Sarghein Mehdi , Abbasalizad Farhangi Mahdieh , Nikrad Negin
Published: January 2025

Background:

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is defined as the existence of metabolic profile risk factors and impaired glycemic status such as dysglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance (IR), dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Several studies demonstrated that a diet that promotes proper nutritional intake; plays a critical role in the prevention and control of MetS. Our goal for conducting this cross-sectional study was to investigate any potential relationships between the nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR) and cardiometabolic risk variables within obese individuals. individuals.

Methods:

In the present cross-sectional study, 338 seemingly healthy participants who were overweight or obese were enrolled. The assessment of dietary consumption was conducted through a validated questionnaire comprising 168 items Then NAR was calculated for all ten vitamins and six minerals. Biochemical variables are measured by the method of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Also, LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol), QUICKI (quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index), and HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance) were calculated using the suggested formulas.

Results:

Subjects in the upper NAR tertiles exhibited a significantly higher percentage of fat-free mass ( P = .002), appetite ( P = .002), and basal metabolic rate (BMR) ( P = .002). In addition, Participants in the upper tertiles of NAR consumed a greater amount of energy and all vitamins and minerals included in NAR and meat, fish and poultry (MFP) ( P < .001) as well as cholesterol, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ( P < .05). Furthermore, no association was shown between NAR and metabolic profile and glycemic status.

Conclusion:

According to our findings, a higher nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR) was associated with higher fat-free mass but no significant link between NAR and metabolic profile risk factors was observed.
Medea as a rape narrative: Edward Bond’s Dea
Authors: Gümüş Florentina , Biber Vangölü Yeliz
Published: January 2025

In contemporary theatre, the abundance of rape references reflects an unprecedented interest in revealing its ubiquity throughout history. The most recent triggering point for this growing interest may have been the beginning of the #MeToo movement in 2017; however, rape narratives have been the subject of theatre even before. One illustrative example is Edward Bond’s play Dea, a radical adaptation of Euripides’ Medea. What renders this play remarkable is that, although rape is not a feature of the ancient story, Bond places rape at the core of his adaptation. Through Julie Sanders and Linda Hutcheon’s theories of adaptation, as well as Lisa Fitzpatrick’s critical approach to the representation of rape in theatre, this essay explores the possible reasons for this transformation and how rape is related to a broader context of violence in the play.
The correlation of adiponectin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and adiponectin/CRP ratio to Castelli risk Index-II in cardiovascular disease associated with vitamin-D deficiency in laboratory workers at M. Djamil Public Hospital, West Sumatra
Authors: Efrida Efrida , Rofinda Zelly Dia , Lipoeto Nur Indrawaty , Bakma Isphandra
Published: January 2025

Background: Vitamin-D sufficiency is essential to maintain the physiological functions of the body such as intestinal calcium absorption for optimal skeletal health, but recently, several studies have stated that vitamin-D deficiency results in poor non-skeletal outcomes such as chronic inflammation and atherogenicity. Objective: This study aims to investigate the correlation of adiponectin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and adiponectin/CRP ratio to Castelli risk index-II (CRI-II) in cardiovascular disease (CVD) associated with vitamin-D deficiency in laboratory workers. Methods: Analytical research using a cross-sectional design on 59 laboratory workers with vitamin-D deficiency was used. The hs-CRP levels, 25-hydroxy vitamin-D [25(OH)D] total, and adiponectin, were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The Friedewald formula was used to calculate LDL-C quantities indirectly, while the homogeneous enzymatic colorimetric method was used to calculate the HDL-C quantities. Results: The mean of adiponectin, hs-CRP, LDL-C, HDL-C, and CRI-II were 4.38 (2.51) μg/mL, 4.17 (2.86) mg/L, 121.8 (30.1) mg/dL, 47.9 (11.0) mg/dL, and 2.7 (0.9), respectively, and the median quantity of adiponectin/CRP ratio was 1.2 (0.2–47.0). The adiponectin and adiponectin/CRP ratio values demonstrated high correlation values in the negative direction (r = −0.502, p = 0.000) and had a weak negative correlation (r = −0.364, p = 0.005) with CRI-II, respectively, while hs-CRP did not correspond with CRI-II (r = 0.167, p = 0.206). Conclusion: Adiponectin was discovered to be the most correlated parameter with CRI-II, as evidenced by the results of the linear regression analysis. Adiponectin was the only parameter correlating with CRI-II in CVD associated with vitamin-D deficiency.
Impact of Economic Policy Uncertainty on Bank Loan Restructuring: Empirical Evidence from Industry-Level Loan Distribution in China
Authors: Wang Chenxi , Duan Ran
Published: January 2025

In recent years, there has been significant interest in economic policy uncertainty and its economic consequences. Fluctuations in economic policies can introduce instability into business operations, resulting in elevated credit default risks. It is important to investigate whether Chinese commercial banks take economic policy uncertainty into account and adopt a more diversified loan structure to mitigate the risks associated with policy changes. In this study, we investigate the impact of economic policy uncertainty on loan concentration within a sample of Chinese commercial banks from 2007 to 2020. Using a panel dataset of 311 banks, we employ fixed-effects regression models and conduct robustness checks with instrumental variables and dynamic panel regressions to address endogeneity concerns. Our findings reveal a significant negative correlation between economic policy uncertainty and the loan concentration of banks. These results hold strong even when subjected to rigorous testing for endogeneity using instrumental variables and dynamic panel regressions. Furthermore, we also find that the negative impact of economic policy uncertainty on loan concentration is more pronounced in regional banks, small-sized banks, and banks with lower market shares. Moreover, the mechanism analysis demonstrates that operational risk serves as a vital channel through which economic policy uncertainty affects loan concentration. By shedding light on how macroeconomic policies impact the financial behavior of commercial banks, we provide new empirical evidence and valuable insights into the dynamics of bank loan structures. In light of our findings, we propose policy recommendations to ensure economic policy stability, encourage the diversification of loan portfolios, expand the regulatory scope on loan concentration, and foster improvements in the regulatory system.
Mortality in ischaemic stroke patients without standard modifiable risk factors: An analysis of the Riksstroke registry
Authors: Beharry James , Yogendrakumar Vignan , Barros Guilherme W. F. , Davis Stephen M , Norrving Bo , Figtree Gemma A , Donnan Geoffrey , Euler Mia von , Eriksson Marie
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Little is known of the long-term prognosis of patients with acute ischaemic stroke in the absence of standard modifiable stroke risk factors (SMoRFs). In acute coronary syndromes, patients without modifiable risk factors have a higher mortality rate. We analysed data from the Swedish Stroke Register to determine survival of patients without SMoRFs following an ischaemic stroke.

Patients and methods:

We identified adult patients with first-presentation acute ischaemic stroke between 2010 and 2020. Patients were considered to possess a SMoRF if they had one of: hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, atrial fibrillation or an active smoking history. We compared mortality in patients with and without SMoRFs following first-presentation ischaemic stroke using cox regression models. We also assessed the combined endpoint death and dependency (mRS 3–6) at 3 months via logistic regression models.

Results:

Of 152,588 patients with ischaemic stroke, hypertension (58.7%) and atrial fibrillation (27.3%) were the most common risk factors. 34,019 patients (22.3%) had no SMoRFs. After a first-presentation ischaemic stroke, patients without SMoRFs had a lower risk of death than patients with one or more SMoRFs (HR 0.58 [95% CI 0.57–0.59]). The absence of SMoRFs was associated with lower odds of death and dependency at 3 months in logistic regression models (OR 0·60 [95% CI 0.58–0.62]).

Conclusion:

One in five patients with acute ischaemic stroke had no standard modifiable stroke risk factors. These patients have lower risk of death compared to patients with one or more SMoRFs.
Service preferences among postpartum women (non-)affected by different types of intimate partner violence: insights from the cross-sectional study INVITE
Authors: Hausmann Laura M. , Seefeld Lara , Mojahed Amera , Mack Judith T. , Garthus-Niegel Susan , Schellong Julia
Published: January 2025

Background

Women in the postpartum period are at greater risk of intimate partner violence (IPV), which may cause physical, sexual, or psychological harm and have a long-lasting negative impact on mother and child. Seeking help in case of IPV in the postpartum period can be difficult.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine service preferences among postpartum women in Germany (non-)affected by IPV.

Methods

In the cross-sectional study INVITE, postpartum mothers (n = 3,509) were interviewed via telephone. Using the WHO-Violence Against Women Instrument (WHO-VAWI), women were divided into groups: non-affected women and women affected by psychological, physical, and/or sexual IPV.

Using analyses of variance, group differences regarding preferred services and modes of service provision were assessed. Examined service domains were psychosocial services (e.g., women´s shelter or self-help groups), medical services (e.g., gynecologist or emergency room), and midwives. Modes of service provision included direct communication (e.g., in person or video conference) and indirect communication (e.g., chat or e-mail).

Results

People from the women's social environment (e.g., family, friends) and specialized IPV services, such as women's shelters, were the most preferred support. Regarding service categories, women who experienced any type of IPV rated all three service domains less likely to be used than non-affected women. Most preferred provision mode was “in person”. Women affected by physical and/or sexual IPV rated direct modes more negatively than non-affected women. However, there were no differences between (non-)affected women regarding indirect modes, such as e-mails or apps.

Discussion

The present results indicate that services were rated less likely to be used by postpartum women affected by IPV. Potential barriers which lead to these ratings need to be investigated. Efforts should be made to increase awareness of IPV and the beneficial effects of support.
Species richness is not a good predictor for above-ground biomass in a warm temperate deciduous broadleaf forest
Authors: He Chunmei , Li Yushan , Dai Xiaoxia , Liu Na , Wu Fangfang , Yan Jiangbo , Gao Meiping , Liang Yonghui , Yuan Zuoqiang , Hao Zhanqing , Yin Qiulong
Published: January 2025

Background

Biomass is the result of long-term production and metabolism in forest ecosystems and is an important indicator of the carbon storage capacity of forests. Although there is increasing empirical evidence supporting the positive impact of biodiversity on forest productivity and biomass, there is still uncertainty about the relative importance of tree diversity in determining carbon storage compared to other factors such as environmental conditions, functional characteristics and stand structure, especially in complex forest ecosystems.

Methods

In this study, based on dataset from a 25-ha forest dynamics monitoring plot, we investigated the effects of tree diversity, environmental variables, functional traits and stand structural attributes on above-ground biomass (AGB). Spearman correlation coefficients were used to analyze the correlations between AGB and the variables. The relative importance of these factors in influencing AGB variation was assessed using a random forest model. Structural equation model was used to determine the direct or indirect effects of each factor on AGB.

Results

The results showed a negative, though not significant, correlation between species richness and AGB. There was a significant positive correlation between leaf dry matter content and leaf tissue density, implying that more leaf photosynthetic products were utilized for dry matter accumulation. The variation in AGB was mainly explained by the maximum diameter at breast height and the coefficients of variation of diameter at breast height, suggesting that large diameter individuals contribute disproportionately to AGB. In addition, AGB was also influenced by topographic factors (i.e., altitude and slope), while there was no significant correlation with soil variables.

Conclusions

This study reflects the response of AGB to different influencing factors. Our study emphasizes that stand structure attributes may be more suitable as predictors of forest AGB than species richness.
Relationship between dietary fiber physicochemical properties and feedstuff fermentation characteristics and their effects on nutrient utilization, energy metabolism, and gut microbiota in growing pigs
Authors: Yong Feng , Liu Bo , Li Huijuan , Hao Houxu , Fan Yueli , Datsomor Osmond , Han Rui , Jiang Hailong , Che Dongsheng
Published: January 2025

Background

There is a growing focus on using various plant-derived agricultural by-products to increase the benefits of pig farming, but these feedstuffs are fibrous in nature. This study investigated the relationship between dietary fiber physicochemical properties and feedstuff fermentation characteristics and their effects on nutrient utilization, energy metabolism, and gut microbiota in growing pigs.

Methods

Thirty-six growing barrows (47.2 ± 1.5 kg) were randomly allotted to 6 dietary treatments with 2 apparent viscosity levels and 3 β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios. In the experiment, nutrient utilization, energy metabolism, fecal microbial community, and production and absorption of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) of pigs were investigated. In vitro digestion and fermentation models were used to compare the fermentation characteristics of feedstuffs and ileal digesta in the pig’s hindgut.

Results

The production dynamics of SCFA and dry matter corrected gas production of different feedstuffs during in vitro fermentation were different and closely related to the physical properties and chemical structure of the fiber. In animal experiments, increasing the dietary apparent viscosity and the β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios both increased the apparent ileal digestibility (AID), apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), and hindgut digestibility of fiber components while decreasing the AID and ATTD of dry matter and organic matter (P < 0.05). In addition, increasing dietary apparent viscosity and β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios both increased gas exchange, heat production, and protein oxidation, and decreased energy deposition (P < 0.05). The dietary apparent viscosity and β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios had linear interaction effects on the digestible energy, metabolizable energy, retained energy (RE), and net energy (NE) of the diets (P < 0.05). At the same time, the increase of dietary apparent viscosity and β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios both increased SCFA production and absorption (P < 0.05). Increasing the dietary apparent viscosity and β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios increased the diversity and abundance of bacteria (P < 0.05) and the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria. Furthermore, increasing the dietary β-glucan-to-arabinoxylan ratios led to a linear increase in SCFA production during the in vitro fermentation of ileal digesta (P < 0.001). Finally, the prediction equations for RE and NE were established.

Conclusion

Dietary fiber physicochemical properties alter dietary fermentation patterns and regulate nutrient utilization, energy metabolism, and pig gut microbiota composition and metabolites.
FinTech: a literature review of emerging financial technologies and applications
Authors: Kou Gang , Lu Yang
Published: January 2025

Future financing has the potential to evolve into a forward-looking and ingenious system that can enrich diverse technologies. This investigation focuses on five attractive emerging technologies tied to the finance, namely artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, blockchain, augmented reality (AR)/virtual reality (VR), and quantum mechanics. Within the financial milieu, there is an ongoing pursuit for more precise, optimized, secure, and agile solutions capable of managing multifarious financial undertakings. Emerging technologies present remarkable modalities for achieving these objectives. This scholarly exposition expounds upon the creation of emerging technologies within the financial world, while concurrently deliberating upon the prospective applications of these technologies within financial systems. Given the nascent stage of development that characterizes these emerging technologies, the advancement of financial performance emerges as a substantial challenge owing to both technological and operational advantages. Technology-oriented financing has emerged as an essential trajectory for shaping the future of finance.
Analyzing the barriers to blockchain adoption in supply chain finance using an integrated interval-valued Fermatean fuzzy RAFSI model
Authors: Wang Weizhong , Chen Yu , Wang Yi , Deveci Muhammet , Al-Hinai Amer , Kadry Seifedine
Published: January 2025

Many attempts have been made to identify barriers to blockchain adoption in supply chain; however, barriers to blockchain adoption in supply chain finance (SCF) are underexplored. This study prioritizes barriers to blockchain adoption in SCF and evaluates the barrier level of each alternative participant. We propose an integrated decision model to prioritize the barriers and evaluate their levels of alternative participants. To determine the barriers, we conducted a literature review. We then introduce an integrated weight calculation method by combining interval-valued Fermatean fuzzy (IVFF)-optimistic-pessimistic-utility values-based and IVFF-RS (ranking sum) methods to determine the barrier weights. To evaluate the barrier level of each alternative participant in SCF, the integrated IVFF-RAFSI (Ranking of Alternatives through Functional Mapping of Criterion Subintervals into a Single Interval) model is presented to rank the barrier, which uses a power-weighted aggregation operator to fuse experts’ opinions. A case study demonstrates the practicality of the integrated IVFF-RAFSI model. The results show that uncertain and competitive markets (weighted at 0.0676) are the most significant barriers. This finding also suggests that small and medium-sized processing enterprises have the highest barriers to blockchain adoption. Sensitivity and comparative analyses validate the steadiness and competency of the proposed model. These results indicate that the proposed methodology provides a systematic technique for analyzing barriers to blockchain applications in SCF.
Market value of R&D, patents, and CEO characteristics
Authors: Wang Lipeng , Verousis Thanos , Zhang Mengyu
Published: January 2025

The contribution of knowledge capital to firm value has increased significantly, from 25% in the 1970s to 45% in the 2010s (Belo et al. in Decomposing firm value J Financ Econ 143:619–639, 2022). However, what influences firms’ ability to maximize the effect of knowledge capital on firm value? Drawing on insights from upper echelons, agency, and behavioral agency theories, we show that CEO characteristics are crucial in enabling firms to take advantage of knowledge stock. We empirically demonstrate that short-term CEO compensation structures are detrimental to a firm’s ability to take advantage of its knowledge stock. We further show that CEO power enhances knowledge stock and R&D intensity. Our study provides direct empirical evidence of the importance of CEO compensation structure and corporate governance in understanding firm value in a knowledge economy.
Relationship between green bonds and carbon neutrality: evidence from top five emitting countries’ sectoral CO2 emissions
Authors: Pata Ugur Korkut , Kartal Mustafa Tevfik , Ahmed Zahoor , Sinha Avik
Published: January 2025

This study analyzes the influence of green bonds on carbon neutrality. It examines the daily data of sectoral CO2 emissions of the top five CO2-emitting nations from January 2, 2019 to December 30, 2022 using wavelet transform coherence, quantile-on-quantile regression, Granger causality in quantiles, and quantile regression approaches. The results revealed that (i) green bonds are strongly related to sectoral CO2 emissions; (ii) green bonds reduce transport sector CO2 emissions in China, the US, and Japan while causing an upsurge in India and Russia; (iii) green bonds reduce industrial sector CO2 emissions only in the US; (iv) green bonds have a declining influence in energy sector CO2 emissions at lower quantiles in India, China, and the US, whereas the impact increases at higher quantiles; and (v) green bonds decrease residential sector CO2 emissions in the US, Russia, and Japan. The study revealed that green bonds help reduce CO2 emissions in the residential sector in various quantiles. Therefore, the US, Russia, and Japan should raise household awareness of green energy utilization by promoting them with green bonds. In addition, green bonds can effectively reduce transportation sector CO2 emissions in China and the US. Therefore, the policymakers of the two global powers should contribute to global CO2 reduction by promoting green transportation and clean energy transition in the transportation sector through green bonds. Thus, green bonds can play an effective role in the fight against global warming.
A novel fuzzy decision-making approach to pension fund investments in renewable energy
Authors: Yüksel Serhat , Eti Serkan , Dinçer Hasan , Meral Hasan , Umar Muhammad , Gökalp Yaşar
Published: January 2025

Pension fund must consider some significant issues when making renewable energy project investment decisions. It is necessary to determine the most important factors and prioritize the indicators. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to conduct a priority analysis of the determinants of investment in renewable energy projects by pension funds. This study constructs a novel fuzzy decision-making model. First, five indicators for this process are weighted using an entropy methodology based on sine trigonometric Pythagorean fuzzy sets. The CRITIC methodology is also considered to make a comparative evaluation. Second, five different clean energy investment alternatives for pension funds are ranked using the RATGOS methodology. Similarly, this ranking analysis is also made by considering TOPSIS technique to check the reliability of the results. The main contribution of this study is the creation of a new and comprehensive fuzzy decision-making model to identify the most important factors in renewable energy project investments for pension funds. The proposed model uses the RATGOS technique to rank clean energy investment alternatives for pension funds. By considering the geometrical mean in the RATGOS calculation process, criticisms related to existing ranking techniques can be overcome. The use of sine trigonometric Pythagorean fuzzy numbers provides significant benefits to the quality of the proposed decision-making model. The defuzzification process can be implemented appropriately using these sets. Therefore, this study’s findings pave the way for investors to make investment decisions under these circumstances. It is concluded that the most important criterion is risk minimization. Effective regulations are another critical issue. Furthermore, the ranking results indicate that the most suitable renewable energy alternative is green bonds. The comparative results with STPFY-TOPSIS show that the proposed model generates coherent and reliable findings.

Graphical abstract
Drug screening for ischemic stroke using larvae and adult zebrafish model: a review
Authors: Nayaka Ni Made Dwi Mara Widyani , Adnyana I Ketut , Anggadiredja Kusnandar , Wibowo Indra
Published: January 2025

Ischemic stroke (IS) is the most recorded case of stroke that is caused by decreased blood flow to the brain. Nowadays, therapeutical agents for IS are limited and they have not shown maximum clinical results. Therefore, the exploration of new candidates for IS treatment continues to be done. Zebrafish as one of the animal models has its advantages and currently is being developed to be incorporated into the drug discovery pipeline of IS. This review explores the latest applications of the zebrafish model in screening potential therapeutic agents for IS. Key factors related to the experimental design such as developmental stage and strain, routes of drug administration, induction methods, and experimental parameters are also elaborated. Finally, this review offers future recommendations for the use of zebrafish in the pre-clinical study of IS. This review is beneficial as a reference for establishing drug screening protocols using the zebrafish IS model.
Simultaneous inversion and geobody extraction to estimate carbon storage potential in the Ivishak Formation of the Alaska North Slope, United States
Authors: Jacobsen Rae T. , Knapp James H.
Published: January 2025

Geologic carbon storage is widely viewed as a critical component of the energy transition and is now receiving significant attention in Alaska. The Ivishak Formation is a regionally extensive sandstone unit underlying the producing Kuparuk oil field located on the North Slope of Alaska. The Ivishak Formation is known to have high porosity and permeability, but the zone is water wet and not hydrocarbon bearing beneath the Kuparuk oil field. Due to nearby surface infrastructure, the few leakage points from legacy wellbores, and supportive well data, the formation has been identified on a basin scale for potential carbon storage. Despite extensive coverage in the region, seismic data have not previously been employed to characterize geologic carbon storage potential in the Ivishak. A prestack simultaneous inversion of an extensive 3D data set is computed to improve interpretation and predict reservoir heterogeneities for the Ivishak Formation. Inversion results provide an improved interpretation for the top and base of the formation. Strong correlations between high porosity/permeability sands and inversion results allow for porosity and shale volume (Vshale) estimates via a discrete neural network. As a result, the highest quality sands can be isolated and mapped using 3D geobody extractions. Improved mapping from seismic inversion and well-log measurements provides a new Ivishak carbon storage estimate beneath the Kuparuk oil field of 1.2, 1.8, and 3.8 (P10, P50, and P90) GT.
Unlocking onshore imaging challenges with FWI: Case studies from the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Guo Yonghe , Aziz Ahmed , Sedova Anna , Reinier Mathieu , Donno Daniela , Lambaré Gilles , Carotti Diego
Published: January 2025

Velocity model building and depth imaging are known to be complicated endeavors in numerous onshore areas in the Middle East. Despite recent advancements toward denser, wide-azimuth, and low-frequency seismic acquisitions, the application of full-waveform inversion (FWI) remains challenging. The main difficulties arise from complex near-surface geology that creates wave mode conversions (P to S waves but also strong multiples) and very energetic and complex ground roll overlaying reflected waves and dominating low frequencies, with the diving waves being less energetic and noisier. This paper presents recent progress in land FWI toward higher-resolution velocity models, with successful applications to case studies from the Sultanate of Oman. The first example shows an application of land FWI imaging. It shows that we are able to invert jointly diving and reflected waves in acoustic FWI. With proper input data conditioning and initial model preparation, we successfully ran acoustic FWI up to 45 Hz, resulting in a high-resolution velocity model and derived FWI image that significantly improved subsurface imaging and geologic understanding. The inverted high-frequency velocity could also be more reliably used for subsequent reservoir characterization steps. Given the important role of a good-quality near-surface model for stabilizing high-frequency FWI updates, the second example highlights the creation of a detailed shallow velocity model. We propose using elastic FWI of surface waves for characterization of the near surface in complex geologic settings. Here, we demonstrate the effectiveness of this workflow to enhance imaging of the shallow subsurface. Compared to conventional methods such as surface-wave inversion, elastic FWI of surface waves has the advantage of 3D full-wavefield modeling with no requirement for picking. Our workflow also benefits from the ultra-low frequencies recovered by interferometry to obtain a more stable deeper update.
MS-RegNet: A rock image classification algorithm based on improved RegNet
Authors: Guo Lei , Huang Shijie , Xin Bingyu
Published: January 2025

Rock classification and identification play an important role in geologic exploration. Traditional artificial identification methods are affected by subjective factors and are cumbersome to operate. Therefore, artificial intelligence technology has been employed for the automatic identification of rock images. The rapid development of deep learning has led to several traditional classification models, but these models do not perform well on rock image data sets due to the complexity of rock features and the lack of rock data sets. To address the issue, this paper proposes a RegNet-based classification algorithm — multiscale RegNet (MS-RegNet). MS-RegNet (1) uses recursive gated convolution as the main module for feature extraction, replacing depthwise separable convolution, to enhance the global modeling capability of the model; (2) proposes a new multiscale squeeze-and-excitation attention module to enhance the feature extraction capability of the model for fine-grained features; (3) uses bidirectional feature pyramid network for feature fusion of the model, combining features of different scales to improve the classification accuracy of the model; and (4) adjusts the loss function to focal loss to reduce the negative impact of category imbalance on classification accuracy. The improved classification algorithm was tested on both private and public data sets. Experimental results show that MS-RegNet effectively focuses on the fine-grained feature differences and exhibits stronger feature extraction abilities compared with traditional classification models. The model achieved a classification accuracy and F1 score of approximately 92% on the private data set and about 94% on the public data set. This level of accuracy makes it appropriate to be used for practical applications.
Discussion: Comments on: “The old and new of fluid indicators: An overview and application” (Farfour and Russell, 2024, The Leading Edge, 43, no. 5, 294–302)
Authors: de Bruin Jan
Published: January 2025

The matter I want to raise in this note is about the “background trend” mentioned in Farfour and Russell (2024). It has been shown that this is an artifact ( de Bruin, 2019 , 2020a ). The authors refer to a number of publications, including several by accomplished geophysicists, who all got this “trend” wrong in the 1980s and 1990s. The list includes names like Castagna, Goodway, Hilterman, Foster, Connolly, and Russell. Regardless of all the rewards those papers have accumulated, if it's wrong then it's wrong. The success of amplitude variation with offset (AVO) fluid indicators has nothing to do with the “well-defined background trend” referred to in Farfour and Russell (2024):
Reply to the Discussion
Authors: Farfour Mohammed , Russell Brian
Published: January 2025

In our paper on fluid indicators from seismic data ( Farfour and Russell, 2024 ), we stated that, in the absence of hydrocarbons, the elastic properties of geologic formations often exhibit a remarkable correlation trend. This observation has been reported and confirmed by numerous studies, including those by Castagna et al. (1985) , Castagna and Smith (1993) , Simm et al. (2000) , Russell et al. (2011) , and Chopra and Castagna (2014) .