bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Collaboration in Viral Hepatitis: A Network Analysis of 60,720 Publications over Two Decades
Authors: Ogasawara Naruaki
Published: September 2024

Aim: This study aims to analyze the structure of the co-authorship network in viral hepatitis research from 2000 to 2023 using data from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection. The objective is to identify key researchers, evaluate the collaborative dynamics, and understand the evolution of scientific contributions in this field. Method: This study utilized network analysis techniques to evaluate 60,720 publications related to viral hepatitis research indexed in the WoS Core Collection between 2000 and 2023. The analysis was conducted using Python (Version 3.10.5) in the PyCharm development environment (Software Version 2022.1.3). The co-authorship networks were assessed using macro-level indicators such as network density (the ratio of actual to possible connections), clustering coefficient (degree of node clustering), number of components (distinct connected subgroups), and average path length (average distance between nodes). Micro-level indicators including degree centrality (importance based on the number of connections), closeness centrality (proximity to other nodes), and betweenness centrality (frequency of a node on the shortest paths between others) were also analyzed.Result: The findings reveal that the viral hepatitis research network is characterized by low network density, indicating sparse overall collaboration. However, the clustering coefficient is high, suggesting strong collaborations within small, cohesive groups. Over the years, researchers such as Stefan Zeuzem, Maria Buti, and Fabien Zoulim have played pivotal roles, serving as central figures in the network. A noticeable increase in network density and clustering from 2020-2023 suggests growing collaboration in recent years.Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of international collaboration in advancing viral hepatitis research. Key researchers have emerged as influential contributors, facilitating global research activities. Network analysis provides valuable insight into the structure of these collaborations and helps identify potential areas for future research and partnerships to combat viral hepatitis globally. The results of this study should be used to reduce global healthcare disparities, promote research collaboration, and address viral hepatitis as a global public health problem.
Enhanced Chaotic Pseudorandom Number Generation Using Multiple Bernoulli Maps with FPGA Optimizations
Authors: PALACIOS-LUENGAS LEONARDO , MEDINA-RAMÍREZ REYNA CAROLINA , MARCELÍN-JIMÉNEZ RICARDO , RODRIGUEZ-COLINA ENRIQUE , Castillo-Soria Francisco R. , VAZQUEZ-MEDINA RUBEN
Published: September 2024

Chaos theory is widely used in the design of Pseudorandom Number Generators (PRNG), which produce number sequences with statistically uniform distributions and random appearance. However, certain methods for implementing chaotic maps can lead to dynamic degradation of the generated number sequences. To solve such problem, we develop a method for generating pseudo-random number sequences based on multiple one-dimensional chaotic maps. In particular, we introduce a Bernoulli chaotic map that utilizes function transformations and constraints on its control parameter, covering complementary regions of the phase space. This approach enables the generation of chaotic number sequences with a wide coverage of phase space, increasing uncertainty in the number sequence generation process. Moreover, by incorporating a scaling factor and a sinusoidal function, we develop a robust chaotic map, referred to as the Sine-Multiple Modified Bernoulli Chaotic Map (SM-MBCM), which ensures a high level of randomness, validated through statistical mechanics analysis tools. Using the SM-MBCM, we propose a Chaotic PRNG (CPRNG) and evaluate its quality through correlation coefficient analysis, key sensitivity tests, statistical and entropy analysis, key space evaluation, linear complexity analysis, and performance tests. Furthermore, we present an FPGA-based implementation scheme that leverages equivalent MBCM variants to optimize the electronic implementation process. Finally, we compare the proposed system with existing designs in terms of throughput and key space.
Evolution of the Tourism Industry in Chile: An Approximation to GDP for the Period 2013–2019
Authors: Barra Novoa Rodrigo
Published: September 2024

This study examines the evolution of the tourism industry in Chile during the period 2013-2019, focusing on its contribution to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Using data from the National Tourism Service (SERNATUR) and the Undersecretariat of Tourism, it analyzes the approximation of tourism GDP and its share in the Chilean economy. The results indicate a sustained growth of the tourism sector, with a contribution to GDP that reached 3.3% in 2019. The main Tourism Characteristic Activities (TCAs) contributing to this growth are identified, highlighting administrative and support activities, food services and accommodation. The study reveals growth patterns, fluctuations in the contribution of different TCAs, and the impact of external factors on the sector's performance. This research provides valuable insights for the formulation of tourism development policies and strategies in Chile.
Successful Management and Containment of a Neonatal Enteric Cytopathgenic Human Orphan Virus 11 (Echovirus 11) Meningitis Outbreak in a Neonatal Sick Room
Authors: Fan Hueng-Chuen , Chen Hui-Chin , Yang Kuei-Tzu , Show Bao-Chia , Yang Hui-Ching , Tung Min-Che
Published: September 2024

Background: Echovirus 11 (EV-11) is a notable enterovirus linked to severe infections in neonates, often resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. In April 2019, an EV-11 outbreak occurred in the sick neonate room at a teaching hospital in Taichung, Taiwan, posing a serious threat to the vulnerable infants in this setting. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the source and transmission dynamics of the EV-11 outbreak in the neonatal unit and evaluate the effectiveness of the infection control measures implemented to contain the outbreak. Methods: Patient records, epidemiological data, and laboratory findings were reviewed. For all cases, confirmatory tests were performed using virus isolated from cerebrospinal fluid. Rapid quarantine measures were employed. The hospital’s nosocomial infection surveillance system was used to track confirmed cases and exposed individuals to facilitate effective management and monitoring; Results: Five neonates were confirmed to have EV-11 during the outbreak. Surveillance of 10 contacts and 11 newly admitted cases yielded negative results. All infected infants eventually recovered. The cohort comprised three males and two females, with a birth weight range of 2472–4224 grams. Their gestational ages range of 34 3/7 weeks to 39 weeks; including two premature and three full-term infants. Symptoms began between 6 and 27 days of life, with fever being the consistent clinical manifestation. Strict infection control measures, including isolation of infected cases, suspension of rooming-in, and rigorous disinfection protocols, successfully halted viral spread. The outbreak was contained within 39 days, with no additional cases reported post-intervention; Conclusions: The prompt and effective response, including robust infection control protocols, was crucial for managing and containing the EV-11 outbreak in the neonatal unit. These cases underscore the significance of immediate action, stringent infection control measures, and ongoing monitoring for addressing enterovirus outbreaks in neonatal care settings.
Evaluation of Brachypodium spp. System Model Against Fusarium poae
Authors: Arroyo Florencia , Martínez Mauro , Arata Agustín , MORENO MARIA VIRGINIA , Dufresne Marie , Stenglein Sebastian , Dinolfo María Inés
Published: September 2024

Cereal crops are affected by one of the most devastating diseases worldwide, known as Fusarium head blight (FHB), with Fusarium graminearum being the most isolated causal pathogen. Another species associated to this disease is Fusarium poae. This species has been considered a relatively weak pathogen compared to F. graminearum, but its importance has increased for its occurrence in cereal grains worldwide. Considering the advantages of using B. distachyon as a plant model and the importance of F. poae in crops, our study aimed to evaluate the potential use of Brachypodium as a plant model to evaluate the compatible interaction with F. poae. For this, 12 Brachypodium spp. accessions from different countries were inoculated with a selected F. poae set of isolates. Disease severity, conidial quantification, fungal DNA biomass, and nivalenol quantification were assessed. The results showed a compatible interaction between Brachypodium accessions and Fusarium poae, which allowed the use of the model plant for future plant-pathogen interaction studies.
Distributed Digital Lending (LoanChain): Global Matching of Lenders and Borrowers
Authors: Samid Gideon
Published: September 2024

The dynamics of society is enabled, in large part, through an efficient matching between people who have money to lend and people who have a need to borrow. Fair loans serve both the lender and the borrower. This task is handled today mostly via traditional banks. They offer various plans to depositors from whence they serve borrowers. Proposing to replace such rigidity with cyberspace-rooted dynamic ad-hoc global matching of lenders and borrowers. Uniquely here we build a chain of lenders to support a single borrower. Lenders will post a proposition to lend a given amount of money for a stated duration for a set interest rate. Borrowers will post a request to borrow a desired amount of money, for a specified duration, and for which they are ready to pay a stated interest. A virtual digital bank (VDB) will match all the posts, negotiate terms as necessary, and move the money -- everyone benefits. Distributed Digital Lending, DDL, applies to macro, long terms loans, as well as to micro. very short terms loans. DDL efficiency will ensure that all money at rest will be money in growth, and the full global lending capacity will be put to good service through the exact loans borrowers want. DDL is hinged in digital transactions which are immediate, irrevocable, and private, per regulatory allowance. The matching is optimized with AI tools. BitMint*LeVeL is the design standard coin for DDL, but other digital money options will do too.
A Review on Biobutanol: Eco-Friendly Fuel of the Future, History, Current Advances, and Trends
Authors: Serrano Victor Alejandro , Fajardo Carlos Alberto Guerrero , Castro Karol Tatiana
Published: September 2024

Biobutanol is becoming more relevant as a promising alternative biofuel, primarily due to its advantageous characteristics. These include a higher energy content and density compared to traditional biofuels, as well as its ability to mix effectively with gasoline, further enhancing its viability as a potential replacement. A viable strategy for attaining carbon neutrality, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and utilizing sustainable and renewable resources is the use of biomass to produce biobutanol. Lignocellulosic materials have gained widespread recognition as highly suitable feedstocks for the synthesis of butanol, together with various value-added byproducts. The successful generation of biobutanol hinges on three crucial factors: effective feedstock pretreatment, the choice of fermentation techniques, and the subsequent enhancement of the produced butanol. While biobutanol holds promise as an alternative biofuel, it is important to acknowledge certain drawbacks associated with its production and utilization. One significant limitation is the relatively high cost of production compared to other biofuels, additionally, the current reliance on lignocellulosic feedstocks necessitates significant advancements in pretreatment and bioconversion technologies to enhance overall process efficiency. Furthermore, the limited availability of biobutanol-compatible infrastructure, such as distribution and storage systems, poses a barrier to its widespread adoption. Addressing these drawbacks is crucial for maximizing the potential benefits of biobutanol as a sustainable fuel source. This document presents an extensive review encompassing the historical development of biobutanol production and explores emerging trends in the field.
Evaluation of Kinetic and Thermodynamic Parameters of Pyrolysis and Combustion Processes for Bamboo Using Thermogravimetric Analysis
Authors: Lei Jialiu , Wang Yao , Wang Qihui , Deng Shiru , Fu Yongjun
Published: September 2024

As interest in renewable fuels grows, biomass has gained increasing attention for its potential applications. Understanding the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of biomass pyrolysis and combustion are crucial for optimizing its valorization. In this study, TGA was employed to examine bamboo powder's pyrolysis and combustion behaviors under different temperature ramps in nitrogen and air environments. The TG and DTG curves reveal that bamboo pyrolysis occurs in three distinct stages: drying, devolatilization, and carbonization. Similarly, combustion also proceeds through three stages: drying, devolatilization, and char combustion. Notable differences in the temperature ranges of the key stages were observed between pyrolysis and combustion. Moreover, kinetic parameters were evaluated using the KAS, FWO, and STR model-free approaches. The findings indicate that, the activation energy during the oxidative devolatilization stage of combustion are notably lower compared to those during pyrolysis devolatilization. The disparity in activation energy is even more pronounced in the third stage. Thermodynamic analysis shows that the pyrolysis and combustion of bamboo are endothermic and non-spontaneous. It can be stably converted into value-added energy through pyrolysis or combustion process. This study provides essential data to aid in designing and scaling up the thermochemical conversion processes for bamboo.
Differences in the Impact of Economic Structure Evolution on Educational Ecological Carrying Capacity: A Case Study of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region
Authors: Lv Fang , Bao Qiang
Published: September 2024

Basic education is a foundational component of the national education system and human resource development, providing crucial support for the sustainable development of various aspects of human society, including economy, social welfare, and technology. The advancement of basic education is intrinsically linked to national innovation, the well-being of the populace, and the sustainable high-quality development of society. Enhancing the ecological carrying capacity of basic education at the provincial level is critical and pragmatically significant for the coordinated, sustainable, and high-quality development of the region's socioeconomic landscape.Based on panel data from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (hereinafter referred to as Guangxi) from 2013 to 2022, and utilizing the DPSIR theoretical model, a comprehensive evaluation index system has been established. Through statistical analysis and spatial analysis methods, this study explores the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics of the ecological carrying capacity of basic education in various regions under Guangxi's jurisdiction. A multiple linear regression model is employed to analyze the differential impacts of changes in economic structure on the ecological carrying capacity of basic education.The findings reveal a steady upward trend in the ecological carrying capacity of basic education across the municipal districts of Guangxi. The development of five subsystems—Pressure, Driving-force, and others—has also become increasingly balanced; however, the impact of each subsystem on the overall carrying capacity varies. From a formation mechanism perspective, the ecological carrying capacity of basic education in Guangxi is the result of the complex interactions of multiple factors, with notable differences in influencing factors at various stages of development.Therefore, to bridge the regional disparities in the ecological carrying capacity of basic education across the different areas of Guangxi, it is essential to adopt a range of measures that promote coordinated, balanced, and high-quality educational development among regions, effectively ensuring the long-term sustainable development of Guangxi's economy and society.
Sodium Alginate/MXene Based Flexible Humidity Sensors with High-Humid Durability and Application Potentials in Breath Monitoring and Non-Contact Human-Machine Interface
Authors: Chen Huizhen , Huang Xiaodong , Yang Yikai , Li Yang
Published: September 2024

Flexible humidity sensors (FHS) with fast response and durability to high-humidity environment are highly desirable for practical applications. Herein, an FHS based on crosslinked sodium alginate (SA) and MXene was fabricated, which exhibited high sensitivity (impedance varied from 107 to 105 Ω between 10% and 90% RH), good selectivity, prompt response (response/recover time of 4 s/11 s), high sensing linearity (R2 = 0.992) on a semi-logarithmic scale, relatively small hysteresis (~5% RH), good repeatability, and good resistance to high humid environment (negligible change in sensing properties after placed in 98% RH over 24 h). It is proposed that the formation of crosslinking structure of SA and introduction of MXene with good conductivity and high specific surface area contributed to the high performance of the composite FHS. Moreover, the FHS could promptly differentiate respiration status, recognize speech and measure fingertip movement, indicating potentials in breath monitoring and non-contact human-machine interactions. This work provides guidance for developing advanced flexible sensors with wide application scope in wearable electronics.
No Planet‐B Attitudes: The Current Environmental Paradigm and Its Role on Willingness to Pay for Sustainable Tourism Destinations
Authors: de Araújo Arthur Filipe , Andrés-Marques Isabel , López Moreno Lorenza
Published: September 2024

With consumers increasingly aware of the effects of human activity on the environment, tourism products and destinations are increasingly marketed as sustainable and socially responsible. As most sustainable practices lead to additional costs, and tourists’ decisions tend to be price sensitive, achieving sustainability goals necessarily involves understanding how much tourists are willing to pay extra for sustainable practices, as well as the antecedents of such Willingness to Pay (WTP). The present study aims to advance knowledge on the antecedents of WTP for Sustainable Destinations (WTP-4-SD), for which it builds on previous studies employing the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the New Environmental Paradigm (NEP). In this context, a theoretical model involving Ecotourism Attitudes, Environmental Beliefs, Climate Change-Related Risk Perceptions (CC-RRP), Environmental Concern During trip (ECDT), and Sustainable Consumption Behavior (SCB) as antecedents of WTP-4-SD is proposed. The model was tested based on data collected through an online survey, form a sample of 1,545 Spanish and Portuguese tourists, and analyzed through Structural Equations Modelling (SEM). The findings suggest that a cohesive set of attitudes and beliefs regarding the man-nature relationship, the risks of climate change and the role of tourism – which have been labelled “No Planet-B Attitudes” – is the main driver of WTP-4-SD.
Assessing the Appropriation of Space in Urban Green Spaces Before the COVID-19 Pandemic: Three Case Studies in Downtown Shanghai
Authors: Sant’Anna Marcus Vinicius , Zhou Wuzhong
Published: September 2024

This study investigates user behavior in urban green spaces (UGS) in downtown Shanghai prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. UGS are essential public infrastructure, contributing to urban sustainability, quality of life, and social cohesion. Although widely studied, there remains a gap in urban studies and environmental behavior research regarding UGS use from the perspective of space appropriation. This study addresses this by analyzing user demographics, frequency, and spatial activity patterns to assess how different forms of space use can be evaluated across varying levels of appropriation. Using a mixed-methods design, non-participant observation and behavior mapping were conducted across three comprehensive parks in Shanghai, divided into nine observation zones. Data were analyzed using the Pandas library in Python 3.6, descriptive statistics, and qualitative coding. Findings revealed sixty distinct activity types, predominance of elderly male users, absence of teenagers, and activity peaks in the early morning and late after-noon. Structured patterns of engagement suggest a soft to moderate level of appropriation. This research underscores the effectiveness of observational methods, validates appropriation as an analytical category, and emphasizes the importance of structured classification systems for improving understanding of UGS use and its societal role.
What Do We Know about the Relationship between Lycopene and Metabolic Diseases? Review
Authors: Kulawik Anna , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta , Czerny Bogusław , Kamiński Adam , Zalewski Przemysław
Published: September 2024

Metabolic syndrome, obesity, and type 2 diabetes are closely related. They are characterized by chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Obesity is the most important risk factor for metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Metabolic syndrome is characterized by insulin resistance and elevated blood glucose levels, among other conditions. These disorders contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, which can exacerbate other metabolic disorders. Numerous studies indicate that diet and nutrients can have a major impact on preventing and treating these conditions. One such ingredient is lycopene. It exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and can affect metabolic processes in the body. According to the research presented, lycopene supplementation may have significant potential in the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
Variational Color Shift and Auto‐Encoder based on Large Separable Kernel Attention for Enhanced Text CAPTCHA Vulnerability Assessment
Authors: Wan Xing , Johari Juliana , Ruslan Fazlina Ahmat
Published: September 2024

Text CAPTCHAs are crucial security measures employed on global websites to deter unauthorized intrusions. The presence of anti-attack features incorporated into text CAPTCHAs limits the effectiveness of breaking them, despite CAPTCHA recognition being an effective method for assessing their security. This study introduces a novel color augmentation technique called Variational Color Shift (VCS) to boost the recognition accuracy of different networks. VCS generates a color shift range of every input image and then resamples the image within that range to generate a new image, thus expanding the number of samples of the original dataset to improve training effectiveness. In contrast to Random Color Shift (RCS) which treats the color offsets as hyperparameters, VCS uses the estimated offsets to reparametrize the points sampling from the unit uniform distribution to reconstruct new image pixels, which makes the offsets learnable. To reduce the computational effort of VCS, we also propose two variants of VCS: Sim-VCS and Dilated-VCS. In addition, to solve the overfitting problem caused by many disturbances in CAPTCHAs, we propose an Auto Encoder (AE) based on a Large Separable Kernel Attention (AE-LSKA) to replace the convolutional module in the text CAPTCHA recognizer. This new module employs an AE) to compress the interference while expanding the receptive field using Large Separable Kernel Attention (LSKA), which reduces the impact of local interference on the model training and improves the overall perception of characters. The experimental results show that the recognition rate of the model after integrating the AE-LSKA module is improved by at least 15 percentage points on both M-CAPTCHA and P-CAPTCHA datasets. In addition, experimental results demonstrate that color augmentation using VCS is more effective in enhancing recognition.
Numerical Approach to Determine the Resistance of Threaded Anchors in UHPFRC
Authors: Hochuli Antonina , Brühwiler Eugen
Published: September 2024

In this study, the structural behavior of a short threaded anchor with a 20 mm diameter and an embedment length of 50 mm (2.5Ø) in UHPFRC is investigated using non-linear Finite Element models. UHPFRC is assumed to exhibit tensile strain-hardening behavior, with tensile strengths of 7 MPa and 11 MPa, respectively. The modelled anchor was subjected to a continuously increasing uniaxial pull-out force. The results indicate that the fracture mechanism of threaded anchors in UHPFRC is primarily characterized by the formation of a tensile membrane within the UHPFRC, which acts as the main resisting element against the pull-out force. Additionally, the influence of UHPFRC's tensile properties on the pull-out behavior and ultimate resistance of the threaded anchors was determined.
Post-Transplantation B-Cell Lymphoproliferative Disorder in a Dual Organ Recipient: A Rare Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Karadžić Ristanović Vidna , Pavlović Jelena , Brković Voin , Bontić Ana , Baralić Marko , Milinković Marija , Kravljača Milica , Vasin Dragan , Životić Maja , Antić Darko , Vuković Vojin , Radović Milan
Published: September 2024

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) pose significant risks following organ transplantation, characterized by potential aggressiveness. This report aims to discuss a case of PTLD presenting as B-cell large cell lymphoma (DLBCL) post-kidney and pancreas transplantation. A 44-year-old female with type 1 diabetes underwent kidney and pancreas transplantation. She presented with fever, night sweats, and weakness, revealing multiple lesions on CT, including in transplanted and native kidneys, pancreas and lung. Biopsy of transplant kidney confirmed PTLD, DLBCL subtype, with complex immunohistochemical findings. Chemotherapy (R-CHOP) was initiated but complicated by infusion reactions and bowel perforation necessitating surgery and antibiotics. Despite the complications, the normal function of the transplanted kidney is maintained, which made it possible to implement the standard chemotherapy protocol. This case underscores the diagnostic challenges and therapeutic complexities of PTLD, specifically DLBCL, in transplant recipients. Comprehensive evaluation and vigilant management are crucial for successful outcomes in such cases.
Geochemistry and Mineralogy of Precipitates from Passive Treatment of Acid Mine Drainage: Implications for Future Management Strategies
Authors: Delgado Joaquín , Soria Olivia Lozano , Ayala-Muñoz Diana , Martín Domingo , Barba-Brioso Cinta
Published: September 2024

Traditional mining activities in Zaruma-Portovelo (SE Ecuador) have led to high concentrations of pollutants in the Puyango River due to acid mine drainage (AMD) from abandoned waste. Dispersed Alkaline Substrate (DAS) passive treatment systems have shown efficacy in neutralizing acidity and retaining metals and sulfates in acidic waters, achieving near 100% retention for Fe, Al, and Cu, over 70% for trace elements, and 25% for SO₄²⁻. However, significant solid residues are generated, requiring proper geochemical and mineralogical understanding for management. This study investigates the fractionation of elements in AMD precipitates. Results indicate that trivalent metals (Fe, Al) form low-crystallinity oxyhydroxysulfate minerals such as schwertmannite and jarosite, which retain elements like As, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn through adsorption-coprecipitation. Sulfate removal occurs via salts like coquimbite and gypsum. Divalent metals are primarily removed through carbonate and bicarbonate phases, with minerals such as azurite, malachite, rhodochrosite, and calcite. Despite the effectiveness of DAS, leachates from the precipitates exceed regulatory thresholds for aquatic life protection, classifying them as hazardous and posing environmental risks. However, these residues offer opportunities for the recovery of valuable metals.
Cancer, Deuterium, and Gut Microbes: A Novel Perspective
Authors: Seneff Stephanie , Kyriakopoulos Anthony
Published: September 2024

Deuterium is a non-radioactive isotope of hydrogen, containing a neutron as well as a proton, which makes it twice as heavy as hydrogen. Deuterium is a natural element found at 156 parts per million in seawater. Human metabolism employs clever strategies to minimize the amount of deuterium in mitochondrial water, because it causes a stutter in ATPase pumps, introducing excess reactive oxygen species and inefficiencies in ATP production. Gut microbes produce hydrogen gas that is 80% depleted in deuterium (deupleted), and this gas is recycled into organic matter that supplies deupleted nutrients to the host, such as acetate, butyrate, formate, methionine, and choline. Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with many chronic diseases, most notably, cancer. Dehydrogenases are flavoproteins that typically have a high deuterium kinetic isotope effect, and they supply deupleted protons to NAD+ to produce NADH, which supplies protons to the ATPase pumps. Here, we examine the unique metabolic policies of cancer cells in a new light, and we propose that a tumor may arise as a strategy to help repair the mitochondria of tumor-resident immune cells overburdened with deuterium. While lactate accumulation in the tumor microenvironment promotes tumor growth, it also provides a valuable deuterium depleted nutrient to the tumor-resident immune cells. We provide strong evidence that deuterium depleted water (DDW) is a promising treatment for cancer.
Leveraging Digital Transformation Platforms to Strengthen Market Position in India's Textile Industry
Authors: Fatorachian Hajar , Ramesh Samritha
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe global textile industry is undergoing a significant transformation fueled by digital advancements, shifts in consumer behavior, and evolving market dynamics. This study investigates how digital platforms, such as e-commerce and customer relationship management (CRM) systems, can enhance operational efficiency, customer engagement, and market positioning for textile companies. Through the integration of primary data from focus groups and surveys, as well as secondary data from industry reports, this research identifies key strategies for digital adoption and market competitiveness. Using Company A as a case study, this paper explores how digital tools can address current industry challenges and foster growth in a competitive landscape. The findings reveal that implementing CRM systems significantly improves customer retention and personalized services, while adopting e-commerce platforms reduces operational inefficiencies and expands market reach. These results contribute to understanding the role of digital transformation in traditional industries, particularly with respect to customer engagement, branding, and operational optimization.
From Opium to Opioids: A Comparative Historical Analysis of Drug Crises in Qing Dynasty China and Contemporary United States
Authors: Kang Daihun , Kim Myung Jo
Published: September 2024

Background: This study conducts a comparative historical analysis of two significant drug crises: the opium epidemic in 19th-century Qing Dynasty China and the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States, aiming to extract applicable lessons for current global drug policies. Methodology: A historical case study approach was employed, integrating examinations of historical records, policy documents, and contemporary data to compare the development, impact, and responses to these crises within their respective contexts. Results: The analysis reveals significant parallels in socioeconomic impacts and governmental challenges. Key differences include the evolution from predominantly prohibitionist approaches in Qing China to more comprehensive public health-oriented strategies in the U.S. The study highlights the critical role of national power, particularly military capability, in effectively addressing drug crises. Conclusions: The findings underscore four key lessons: (1) Purely prohibitionist approaches often lead to unintended consequences such as black markets and increased criminal activity; (2) Addressing underlying socioeconomic factors contributing to drug abuse is crucial; (3) Aggressive anti-drug policies can escalate into severe diplomatic tensions, necessitating careful consideration of international relations in policy formulation; (4) A nation's military and economic strength significantly influences its ability to implement effective drug policies and resist external pressures that may exacerbate the crisis. These insights suggest that effective management of drug crises requires a balance of strong domestic policies, international cooperation, and maintenance of national power to ensure policy autonomy.
Catastrophic Failure Analysis of a Wind Turbine Gearbox by Finite Element Method and Fracture Analysis
Authors: Martins Jairo Aparecido , Romão Estaner Claro
Published: September 2024

Wind energy is one of the main drivers of the renewable energy market. The wind turbine gearbox, used as a multiplier - is one of the main components directly related to wind turbine efficiency and lifespan. Therefore, the strict control of the gearbox project and its manufacturing processes or even minor improvements in this component heavily and positively impact energy production/generation over time. This work diagnoses a 1.6 MW gearbox fracture mechanics to identify its main reason and how the chain of events took place, leading to the catastrophic failure. The diagnoses underwent numerical simulation (Finite Element Analysis - FEA) and further analysis of the lubrication system, bearings, planetary stage gears, helical stage gears, and high-speed shaft. In conclusion, although the numerical simulation showed high contact stresses between the teeth, the region with the crack nucleated was the top land (tip of the tooth). The most likely factors that led to the premature failure were the missed lubrication for the planetary bearings, lack of gear raw material cleanliness, and excessive case depth at the tip of the sun shaft gear teeth. With the sun gear, planet bearings, and planet gears broken in pieces, those small and large pieces dropped into the oil, between the gears, and into the tooth ring, ending up as a premature gearbox failure.
Sejauh Manakah Penelitian Akuntabilitas Pengelolaan Zakat? Sebuah Analisis Bibliometrik
Authors: Holipah Siti , Baehaqi Ahmad , Handoko Luqman Hakim
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to analyze the literature on zakat management accountability. The data used is secondary data from 91 articles obtained from Google Scholar. The research method used is bibliometric analysis and systematic literature review (SLR). The study shows that research on accountability of zakat management began to increase since 2013. The peak of publications occurred in 2022-2023 with 18 publications. The most productive authors are Harahap R.D., Januarti I., and Susilawati S., each with 2 articles. The city of Medan is the most productive city with 8 articles, while South Jakarta is the most popular city with 143 citations. The most popular author is Endahwati Y.D. with 140 citations. The most popular article which received 140 citations discusses accountability in zakat management and was written by Endahwati Y.D. UIN Sultan Syarif Kasim Riau is the most productive university with 5 writers. Then, Brawijaya University is the most popular institution with 140 citations. Finally, there are more than 20 research themes related to zakat management accountability that can be studied more deeply by future researchers.
A methodological framework for ecological network optimization integrating circuit theory and scenario simulation：Application in the Liangzi Lake Basin, China
Authors: Zhou Yan , Liu Mengyao , Wang Lina , Luo Yawen , Luo Qiaoling
Published: September 2024

As an approach to manage ecological security patterns and construct ecological spaces, the ecological network can identify sources, corridors, and nodes of landscape, improve landscape connectivity and biodiversity. A basic working framework for ecological network construction already existed though, it’s necessary to constantly optimize the network when facing rapid land use/cover changes. This study aims to explore a systematic framework for ecological network optimization, the Liangzi Lake Basin was chosen as the sample area. By considering ecosystem services and landscape connectivity, key ecological sources can be identified. Resistance surfaces were constructed based on the natural and anthropogenic factors. Ecological corridors and nodes were extracted with the Minimum Cumulative Resistance model and circuit theory, and Future Land Use Simulation Model was used to simulate the land use changes over time. Three scenarios: increasing stepping stones, removing obstacle points, and protecting key pinch points were set up to perform simulation and assess the connectivity to compare the effects of optimization. The results showed that the ecological network in the Liangzi Lake Basin consisted of 20 sources, 56 corridors, 64 pinch points, and 25 obstacle points, and the spatial distribution of these elements was relatively homogeneous. By comparing the indicators under three scenarios, it was revealed that removing obstacle points had the most significant effects on the network optimization, which deserved the most concerns in the network construction and optimization. A comprehensive optimization scheme was formed and the order of ecological restoration to different was determined. This methodological framework provides a systematic tool and theoretical basis for constructing ecological networks and determining the restoration order of various ecological elements. It can be applied to various ecological restoration scenarios and be referred to when planning ecological spaces and reserves.
Nowcasting the Japanese Official Labor Statistics Using Density Ratio Estimation with Private Employment Agency's Transaction Data
Authors: Takada Yuya , Izumi Kiyoshi
Published: September 2024

Policymakers, business managers, and recruitment professionals must be aware of labor market trends to aid their decision-making. For this purpose, a range of official statistics is provided in many countries, offering insights into unemployment rates, workforce numbers, average wages, and so on, typically with a lag of two to three months. However, some indicators are difficult to grasp promptly and lag by more than a year. A prime example is the 'pressure on wages due to supply and demand' in the external labor market. The prompt publication of the indicator would be useful for decision-making by policymakers and those involved in corporate management and recruitment. Job changes in the external labor market occur through various channels: job advertisements, public and private employment agencies, and employee referrals. In this study, we focused on transaction data held by private employment agencies because they hold such data in a form that can be used in real-time. However, transactional data held by private employment agencies is only a biased subset to capture the external labor market as a whole. Therefore, to correct the bias, we proposed applying the concept of density ratio estimation and covariate shift and demonstrated that this nowcasting is feasible under realistic conditions in the Japanese case. This means that economic indicators, which are important for capturing economic trends, were previously unusable in decision-making due to the high difficulty of capturing them and the challenge of their timely publication, can now be utilized in decision-making situations.
Artificial particles and soil communities interactively change heterospecific plant-soil feedbacks
Authors: Speißer Benedikt , Gurres Stephanie , Wilschut Rutger , Kleunen Mark van
Published: September 2024

Background and aims
Microplastics affect plant growth and change abiotic and biotic soil properties, such as soil structure or soil-community composition. However, how microplastics affect plant-soil interactions, such as plant-soil feedbacks (PSFs), is still poorly understood. Here, we tested how artificial particles affect heterospecific PSFs, depending on an intact or depleted soil community.
Methods
We conducted a two-phase-greenhouse experiment using Centaurea jacea to condition soil containing an intact or initially depleted soil community in the first phase. Subsequently, we grew individuals of Crepis biennis and Eragrostis minor in all combinations of soil conditioning, soil-community status, and different material treatments including no particle addition, glass particles, or three microplastics individually and mixed. Effects of soil community, material treatment and their interaction on PSFs were assessed based on plant biomass and rootmorphology traits.
Results
Particles in general, microplastics and glass, increased PSF strength based on plant biomass. PSFs tended to be negative with the intact but positive with the initially depleted soil community. Overall, particle-addition effects on PSFs were stronger in the initially depleted community, indicating interactive effects of artificial particles in the soil and soil biota. Interactive particle and soil-community effects generally depended on material type and concentration.
Conclusion
Our findings indicate that artificial particles can affect heterospecific PSFs, and that these effects are likely to be partly mediated by the soil community. Further, they highlight the need for studies assessing potential ecological implications of microplastics modifying plant-soil interactions.
Dynamic response and failure mechanism of micropiles in accumulation landslide under earthquake
Authors: Li Nan , Wu Ruian , Gao Mingzhong , Xu Tianxun , Cao Jinfeng
Published: September 2024

Micropile is a new type retaining structure extensively used in slope engineering due to its small footprint, low vibration and noise emissions, and simple construction process. This study aims to investigate the dynamic response and failure mechanism of micropiles employed in retaining accumulation landslide under seismic loadings through a combination of shaking table test and numerical simulation. The failure process, observed phenomena and bending moment of micropiles during the test were discussed, and the shear force distribution characteristics of micropiles were meticulously analyzed based on numerical simulation. The findings reveal that under sustained earthquake excitation, the natural frequency of the entire landslide system exhibits a gradual decrease and tends to stabilize during strong earthquakes. The dynamic bending moment of micropiles in accumulation landslide exhibits an "S" shape, with a larger magnitude at the top and a smaller one at the bottom. Furthermore, the shear force distribution demonstrates a distinct "W-shaped" pattern. The damage of micropiles mainly includes the flexural shear combination failure at the load-bearing section (occurs within 1.4 ~ 3.6 times the pile diameter above the sliding surface) and the shear failure near the sliding surface. The study is of great significance to understanding of the strengthening mechanism of micropiles under seismic action and to guiding the design of slope support.
Comparative Analysis of Single versus Multi-IRS-Assisted Multi-User for Wireless Communication Systems
Authors: Kibret Ayalew Tadese , Alemu Belayneh Sisay , Yimer Amare Kassaw
Published: September 2024

The key enabling technology for sixth-generation (6G) wireless networks is considered to involve intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRSs). The IRSs are made up of fabricated electromagnetic (EM) surfaces with integrated electronics, electronically controlled processes, and specific wireless communication features. IRSs operate without requiring complicated signal processing and encoding and decoding steps that maximize the receiver's signal strength.
Improving vital performance parameters such as energy efficiency (EE) and spectral efficiency (SE) has frequently been the primary goal of research in order to meet the increasing requirements for advanced services in future 6G communications. In this research, we conduct a comparative analysis of single and multi-IRS wireless communication networks using energy and spectrum efficiency. The energy efficiency versus user distance and energy efficiency versus signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) are greater than four, two, and a single IRS, respectively. Overall, our results suggest that multi-IRS-assisted wireless communication systems outperform other-IRS systems in terms of wireless communication performance.
Teacher Autonomy Support and Academic Engagement: The Chain-Mediated Role of Personal Growth Initiative and Academic Grit
Authors: Lin Wanru , Yu Qijing , Huang Huayan , Jingxue Cai
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the chain-mediated effects of personal growth initiative and academic grit within the context of teacher autonomy support and their impact on academic engagement. A total of 703 Chinese adolescents were surveyed using the Teacher Autonomy Support, Academic Engagement, Personal Growth Initiative, and Academic Grit questionnaires. The results indicated that academic grit played a significant mediating role in the relationship between teacher autonomy support and academic engagement, while personal growth initiative did not exhibit a statistically significant mediating effect. However, a significant chain-mediated effect involving both personal growth initiative and academic grit was observed. These findings provide insights into strategies for enhancing the academic development of adolescents, suggesting that fostering teacher autonomy support can indirectly improve academic engagement through increased academic grit.
Managing soil to support soil biodiversity in protected areas agroecosystems. A comparison between arable lands, olive groves, and vineyards in the Conero Park (Italy)
Authors: Coletta Martina , Monticelli Marco , D’Alessandro Aldo , Gentili Celeste , Torresi Aurora , Waris Natasha , Terza Antonietta La
Published: September 2024

Sustainable soil management is essential to conserve soil biodiversity and its provision of vital ecosystem services. The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 highlights the key role of organic farming and land protection in halting biodiversity loss, including edaphic biodiversity. To assess the effectiveness of the proposed measures, a study was conducted to determine the soil quality of three organically managed agroecosystems: arable lands, olive groves and, vineyards in the Conero Park, using the arthropod-based Biological Soil Quality Index (QBS-ar). Soil microarthropods are sensitive indicators of the impact of agricultural practices on soil quality. Given the diversity of the agronomic practices applied in these agroecosystems, the study aimed to compare the soil quality and identify the system with the least impact on soil biodiversity conservation, with the ultimate goal of laying the basis for identifying soil quality benchmarks within each system to be used in monitoring activities in land protected areas. Results showed that organic farming combined with land protection had a positive impact on soil quality. Overall soil quality was excellent, with the highest levels found in arable lands. This is consistent with the Intermediate Disturbance Hypothesis (IDH), which states that slightly disturbed habitats (i.e. arable land with minimum tillage) tend to have higher organism diversity than stable ones. The composition of microarthropod communities in arable land differed from those in stable arboreal crops. Olive groves showed a higher abundance and diversity of microarthropods compared to vineyards, which showed lower values. Promoting the use of QBS-ar, identifying benchmarks for prevalent agroecosystems and ensuring continuous monitoring of protected areas is thus a crucial issue.