bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Impact of ESG Practices on Financial Performance: The Moderating Effect of Green Innovation in the Indonesian Energy Sector
Authors: Meylani  , Martdian Ratna Sari
Published: January 2025

This study explores the impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices on the financial performance of energy companies in Indonesia, with green innovation serving as a moderating variable. The research utilizes secondary data from Indonesian energy firms. It employs a cross-sectional analysis to evaluate the relationships between ESG practices, green innovation, and financial performance, measured by Return on Assets (ROA). The findings reveal that ESG practices alone do not significantly affect financial performance. However, when moderated by green innovation, ESG practices positively and significantly impact financial performance. This suggests that green innovation enhances the benefits of ESG initiatives by improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and bolstering market competitiveness. The study's results have important implications for corporate managers and policymakers, emphasizing the need for integrating green innovation with ESG strategies to achieve sustainable financial growth.
Video Games as an Instrument of Mass Consciousness Formation
Authors: Strokova M.
Published: January 2025

Video game industry continues to develop rapidly both technically and economically, and it is now the main part within media industry in terms of overall revenue. Moreover, a whole new science is emerging – ludology (from Greek ludus, ‘game’), which does not receive a lot of attention from specialists in international studies. Due to the processes of projection and emersion that are more distinct than in other types of media content, games have a more profound emotional and psychological influence on a person. Images depicted there – positive or negative – play a part in stereotyping. Video games are able to form a certain attitude not only to a country, nation or a social group, but also to phenomena and events, past and present (i.e., to colonial policies), they can be a platform for political speeches and manipulations. A story in them may be an alternative history with only some elements close to the objective reality, however, they contribute to the formation of associations, stereotypes, images, myths and, as a result, to the mass consciousness formation. Nation states and other actors are only starting to strategically use video games as a ‘soft power’ and public diplomacy tools, all while governmental support to the gaming industry and regulatory mechanisms are emerging, in the Russian Federation as well.
High Sensitivity Design for SOI-Based Asymmetric Loop-Terminated Mach-Zehnder Interferometer
Authors: Butt Muhammad A.
Published: January 2025

This work presents a novel design for an asymmetric loop-terminated Mach-Zehnder interferometer (a-LT-MZI) based on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform, tailored for refractive index (RI) sensing applications. A significant advantage of incorporating the Sagnac loop into the MZI configuration is its ability to reduce the interferometer’s effective length by half, offering a more compact design. This makes it ideal for integration into miniaturized optical devices, enabling space-efficient configurations without compromising precision or performance. The proposed device, featuring a pathlength difference (∆L) of 24.35 µm demonstrates a sensitivity of 261 nm/RIU, which is further enhanced to 510 nm/RIU by incorporating a subwavelength (SWG) waveguide in the asymmetric sensing arm. This modification boosts light-matter interaction, resulting in a larger shift in the interference fringes and significantly improving the sensor's performance.
Prognostic Factors and Postoperative Outcomes of Strabismus Surgery Under General Anesthesia
Authors: Lembo Andrea , Schiavetti Irene , Grandi Elisabetta , Bersani Emma , Carbucicchio Alice , Nucci Paolo
Published: January 2025

Purpose: This study aimed to assess postoperative discomfort in patients undergoing strabismus surgery under general anesthesia and to identify prognostic factors influencing surgical outcomes.Material and methods: An observational study involving 100 patients undergoing strabismus surgery under general anesthesia was conducted. Postoperative symptoms, including headache, vomiting, and ocular pain, were recorded and quantified. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors.Results: Postoperative symptoms were reported in 37 patients (37.0%). Multivariate analysis reFigvealed that female sex was a significant risk factor for experiencing at least one postoperative symptom. At the same time, the type of anesthesia emerged as a key determinant of postoperative pain (VAS ≥ 6).Conclusion: Patients undergoing strabismus surgery under general anesthesia are at risk of experiencing postoperative symptoms and pain. Female sex and the type of anesthesia were identified as the most significant prognostic factors influencing these outcomes.
Assessing the Role of Communication and Information Sharing in Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience During Disruptions
Authors: Johnson Harry
Published: January 2025

This research explores the role of communication and information sharing in strengthening supply chain resilience during disruptions. In today’s interconnected and rapidly evolving business environment, supply chains are increasingly vulnerable to a variety of disruptions, including natural disasters, geopolitical crises, and supply shortages. Effective communication and the seamless exchange of information are critical for organizations to respond quickly and adapt to such challenges. The study adopts a qualitative research methodology, including interviews with key stakeholders from different industries, to examine how communication strategies and information sharing practices influence supply chain resilience. The findings indicate that clear, timely, and proactive communication between supply chain partners significantly enhances resilience by enabling swift decision-making and coordinated responses. Digital tools and platforms, such as real-time tracking systems, cloud-based platforms, and data analytics, are essential in improving communication and facilitating information sharing. Furthermore, the research highlights the importance of trust and collaboration, as well as a culture of transparency and flexibility, in fostering effective communication within organizations and across the supply chain network. However, challenges such as technological incompatibility, data overload, and concerns over information confidentiality were identified as significant barriers. The study suggests that overcoming these challenges requires investments in technology, building strong relationships with supply chain partners, and promoting a culture of open communication and collaboration. Overall, the research emphasizes that communication and information sharing are integral to enhancing supply chain resilience, and organizations must prioritize these factors to navigate future disruptions successfully.
The Identification of a Promising Research Topic in Applying Generative Artificial Intelligence to Petroleum Engineering Problems
Authors: Chigarev Boris
Published: January 2025

This study aims to identify a promising research topic using generative artificial intelligence in the petroleum sector. It involves collecting information on generative artificial intelligence in the fields of engineering and computer science, systematizing publications using the GSDMM algorithm, and searching for OnePetro platform publications related to the identified research objectives. A total of 12424 Scopus bibliometric records were analyzed. Title and annotation fields were used to cluster the records. What gave 21 clusters. For each cluster, stacked histograms of the difference in term occurrence for that cluster and other clusters were constructed using the Scimago Graphica program. A promising research topic could be adversarial attacks by compromising generative models by manipulating input data. This topic is underrepresented in petroleum publications, but has significant research potential as it has been extensively written about in publications from other subject areas. The results of this study may help petroleum industry professionals to broaden their search for publications on generative models and thereby improve their knowledge of this research area.
A Method for Estimating Tree Growth Potential with Back Propagation Neural Network
Authors: Yao Jianfeng , Zhao Cancong , Hu Xuefan , Jin Yingshan , Li Yanling , Cai Liming , Li Zhuofan , Li Fang , Liang Fang
Published: January 2025

Tree growth potential is crucial for maintaining forest health and sustainable development. Traditional expert-based assessments of growth potential are inherently subjective. To address this subjectivity and improve accuracy, this study proposed a method of using Backpropagation Neural network (BPNN) to classify tree growth potential. 60 Pinus tabulaeformis (Carr.) and 60 Platycladus orientalis (Linn.) were selected as experimental trees in the Miyun Reservoir Water Conservation Forest Demonstration Zone in Beijing, and 95 Pinus massoniana (Lamb.) and 60 Cunninghamia lanceolate (Linn.) were selected as experimental trees in the Jigongshan Nature Reserve. The average annual ring width of the outermost 2cm xylem of the experimental trees were measured by discs or increment cores, and the wood volume increment of each experimental trees in recent years were calculated. According to wood volume increment, the growth potential of experimental trees was divided into three levels: strong, medium, and weak. Using tree height, breast height diameter, average crown width as input variables, using growth potential level as output variables, four sub models for each tree species were established; Using tree species, tree height, breast height diameter, average crown width as input variables, using growth potential level as output variables, a generalized model was established for these four tree species. The test results showed that the accuracy of the sub models for Pinus tabulaeformis, Platycladus orientalis, Pinus massoniana, and Cunninghamia lanceolate were 68.42%, 77.78%, 86.21%, and 78.95%, respectively, and the accuracy of the generalized model was 71.19%. These findings suggested that employing BPNN is a viable approach for accurately estimating tree growth potential.
Automation of Thermal History Analysis in Steels to Define Decision‐Making Guidelines: Part I: Prototype in Development
Authors: Téllez-Martínez Jorge Sergio , Pintor-Estrada Abel Alberto , Vega-Flores María Yaneth , Sánchez-Hernández Miriam Zulma , González-Juárez Julio César , Vergara-Hernández Héctor Javier
Published: January 2025

Innovation through applied research is a valuable component of decision-making, as it alters process parameters and conditions that can be detected by special devices at high speed. In the case of materials such as steel, the thermal field analysis while a component is being heat treated is essential for controlling the evolution of its microstructure and its state of internal stresses. The mathematical models proposed in the observation of the behaviour of this material can be consolidated by being implemented in computational systems that can be validated with physical measurements and, once a low uncertainty in the state predictions is acquired, established as management tools. In this sense, the recording of thermal histories represents a fundamental methodology to achieve the objective of diagnosing the result of handling the material. In this regard, it is proposed to implement automated testing devices that implement computer systems for recording, processing, calculating, estimating and transferring data to transform production lines' efficiency by optimising or cancelling continuity. A prototype for measuring thermal histories with a degree of reproducibility and mitigation of systematic errors is presented as a utility model for analysing the thermal processing of steels.
Study on Dynamic Behaviors of Hypoid Gears Under Variable Tidal Current Energy Harvesting Conditions
Authors: Huang Dequan , Li Yan , Zheng Xingyuan , Li Gang
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the dynamic behaviors of hypoid gear rotor systems under variable tidal current energy harvesting conditions through numerical simulations and experimental validation. The research examines dynamic responses induced by cyclical tidal current variations, which generate fluctuating loads and bidirectional rotational speeds in tidal energy conversion systems. Two hypoid gear pairs, modified through precise manufacturing parameters, are evaluated to optimize tooth contact patterns for bidirectional tidal loading conditions. The analysis employs coupled torsional equations incorporating variable transmission error and mesh stiffness, validated through experimental testing using a purpose-built apparatus measuring both torsional and translational vibrations across diverse tidal velocity profiles. Results demonstrate that second-order primary resonances exhibit heightened vibration intensity during flow reversal phases, with implications for power efficiency and acoustic emissions. The findings advance the understanding of hypoid gear optimization for tidal energy harvesting systems, particularly regarding tooth contact patterns' influence on dynamic stability under bidirectional flows.
Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics And Statistical Mechanics of Vortex Gases in Tornado Theory
Authors: Bělík Pavel , Dokken Douglas P. , Shvartsman Mikhail M.
Published: January 2025

This work addresses the statistical mechanics of vortex gases and the thermodynamics of the initial formation (genesis) of tornado-like vortices. In particular, it discusses how the thermodynamics of discrete vortices in a quasi-two-dimensional (thin three-dimensional) boundary layer drives the creation of ``hairpins'' and ``cusp'' vortices, their two-dimensional rearrangement, and stretching of vorticity in the vertical direction that originates inside a turbulent boundary layer that leads to a tornado-like flow. Turbulence of that process is analyzed with the help of the vortex filament model and its connection to the fluid flow equations via the Hasimoto and Madelung transforms of the cubic nonlinear Schr\"{o}dinger and Gross--Pitaevskii equations. Finally, a formula for the local non-equilibrium entropy density flux associated with the development of quasi-two-dimensional turbulence in the boundary layer is provided.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Cardiac Catheterization and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: de Souza Priscilla Gabriel , Almeida Lima Eliane de Fátima , Sipolatti Walckiria Garcia Romero , Filetti Felipe Martinuzo , Furieri Lorena Barros , Silveira Byanca de Paula Gomes , Pedraza Letícia López , Nunes Karolini Zuqui , Fioresi Mirian
Published: January 2025

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of patients undergoing cardiac catheterization (CC) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) at a university hospital. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study from June 2023 to August 2024 with elective patients undergoing CC and PCI at a university hospital in Brazil. To collect sociodemographic information and assess knowledge, attitude, and practice, we applied a self-developed and validated questionnaire. Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The main results showed that patients had limited knowledge, positive attitudes, and proactive practices regarding preparation and general topics investigated before the procedures, as well as self-care and warning signs after the procedures. The variables associated with higher odds of achieving greater knowledge, attitude, and practice included wanting to receive information about CC and PCI, owning a mobile phone, and having completed high school education. Conclusions: These findings provide essential data and a theoretical foundation for developing future educational and training programs targeted at this population.
Assessing Ecosystem Service Value Dynamics in Japan’s National Park Based on Land-Use and Land-Cover Changes from a Tourism Promotion Perspective
Authors: Wang Huixin , Xie Yilan , Ta Duy Thong , Zhang Jing , Furuya Katsunori
Published: January 2025

Understanding the changes in land use and land cover (LULC) in national parks and their corresponding ecosystem service value (ESV) shifts are crucial for shaping future management policies and directions. However, comprehensive analyses in this research area that integrate tourism development perspectives are lacking. Therefore, this interdisciplinary study considers Akan-Mashu National Park in Japan as a case study. Using remote sensing data, LULC maps for the past 10 years were generated using the Google Earth Engine. The benefit transfer method was employed to calculate the corresponding ESV for each year, followed by a qualitative analysis of local tourism policy documents to explore how the park ecosystem has changed in the context of promoting tourism development. The results showed that LULC changes in Akan-Mashu National Park have been relatively stable over the past decade, with the most noticeable changes occurring in built-up areas. The results also confirm that tourism development has not had a significant negative impact on the ESV of the Akan-Mashu National Park. The recommendations proposed in this study can also be applied to other similar national parks or protected areas worldwide to achieve a dynamic balance between environmental protection and tourism development.
Three-Dimensional Structural Heteromorphs of Mating-Type Proteins in Hirsutella sinensis and Natural Cordyceps sinensis Insect-Fungal Complex
Authors: Li Xiu-Zhang , Li Yu-Ling , Zhu Jia-Shi
Published: January 2025

The MAT1-1-1 and MAT1-2-1 proteins are essential for the sexual reproduction of Ophiocordyceps sinensis. Although Hirsutella sinensis has been postulated as being the sole-anamorph of O. sinensis and undergoing self-fertilization under homothallism or pseudohomothallism, little is known about the three-dimensional (3D) structures of the mating proteins in the natural Cordyceps sinensis insect-fungal complex, which is a valuable therapeutic agent in traditional Chinese medicine. However, alternative splicing and differential occurrence and translation of the MAT1-1-1 and MAT1-2-1 genes have been unveiled in H. sinensis, negating the self-fertilization hypothesis but suggesting the occurrence of self-sterility under heterothallic or hybrid outcrossing. In this study, the MAT1-1-1 and MAT1-2-1 proteins in the 173 H. sinensis strains and wild-type C. sinensis isolates were clustered into 6 and 5 clades in the Bayesian clustering trees and belonged to 24 and 21 diverse AlphaFold-predicted 3D structural morphs, respectively. Over 3 quarters of the strains/isolates contained either MAT1-1-1 or MAT1-2-1 proteins but not both. The diversity of the heteromorphic 3D structures of the mating proteins suggested functional alterations of the proteins and provided additional evidence supporting the self-sterility hypothesis under heterothallism and hybridization for H. sinensis, Genotype #1 of the 17 genome-independent O. sinensis genotypes. The heteromorphic stereostructures and mutations of the MAT1-1-1 and MAT1-2-1 proteins in the wild-type C. sinensis isolates and natural C. sinensis insect-fungi complex may suggest various sources of the mating proteins produced by two or more cooccurring heterospecific fungal species in natural C. sinensis that have been discovered in mycobiotic, molecular, metagenomic, and metatranscriptomic studies and may inspire future studies on the biochemistry of mating and pheromone–receptor proteins and the reproductive physiology of O. sinensis.
A Data-Driven Intelligent Methodology for Developing Explainable Diagnostic Model for Febrile Diseases
Authors: Amannah Constance , Attai Kingsley Friday , Uzoka Faith-Michael
Published: January 2025

Febrile diseases such as typhoid fever, malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS present diagnostic challenges in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Misdiagnosis leads to delayed treatment, higher healthcare costs, and increased mortality. This study proposes a data-driven diagnostic framework leveraging explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) and machine learning (ML) to enhance diagnostic accuracy and usability in resource-limited settings. To develop and evaluate a diagnostic system combining ML algorithms and XAI techniques for accurate and interpretable detection of febrile diseases, focusing on usability in clinical settings. A dataset of 3,914 patient records from secondary and tertiary hospitals was used to train and validate predictive models. Random Forest, Extreme Gradient Boost, and Multi-Layer Perceptron algorithms were employed, with hyperparameter tuning for optimization. XAI frameworks, including Large Language Models and Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations, were integrated to enhance interpretability. A mobile-based platform was developed for real-time diagnostic use. The ML models demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy across multiple febrile diseases. Integrating XAI frameworks provided intuitive visualizations and textual explanations, enabling clinicians to understand the reasoning behind predictions better. The mobile-based implementation facilitated real-time decision-making, particularly in resource-constrained environments. The study highlights the potential of combining ML algorithms with explainable AI to improve diagnostic accuracy and usability in LMICs. While the system demonstrated effectiveness, limitations such as excluding pediatric data and certain febrile diseases were noted. Future research will expand the dataset, include additional diseases, and optimize system deployment to enhance adoption. This work establishes a foundation for transparent, AI-driven diagnostic tools in resource-poor settings.
Evaluating Saudi Arabian HEIs: Achievements, Strategic Gaps, and Future Roadmap for UN SDGs through THE Impact Rankings
Authors: Wajid Hafiz Abdul
Published: January 2025

This paper evaluates the performance of Saudi Arabian higher educational institutions (HEIs) in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs) as reflected in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings (THE IR). It uses two benchmarking frameworks: the European Union Association (EUA) and the UN-KSA Cooperation 2022–26 frameworks, to identify achievements and gaps. Additionally, the alignment of HEIs' performance with Saudi Arabia's 2024 Sustainable Development Report (SDR) is assessed. Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) is conducted to group HEIs based on their targeted SDGs. The paper also identifies lead HEIs for each SDG, along with partner and supporting HEIs, to address strategic gaps in SDGs 9 and 16, and Priority Areas 2-4 under the UN-KSA Cooperation framework 2022-26. Finally, a SWOT analysis highlights strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, providing actionable recommendations to enhance the contributions of Saudi Arabian HEIs towards achieving the SDGs.
Optimized Polymer-Lipid Hybrid Nanoparticles for Enhanced Delivery and Antibacterial Activity of Gentamicin Against Resistant Pathogens
Authors: Yassin Alaa Eldeen Bakry , Alsuwayyid Faisal , Alkhathran Lama , Alrouisan Sabiha , Alotaibi GHadah , Alyaqub Majd , Alsalman Weam , Alzahrani Raghad , Farh Ibrahim , Halwani Majed A. , Al Harbi Shmeylan
Published: January 2025

Antibiotic resistance is a critical global health concern, driven by biofilm formation and the declining effectiveness of conventional therapies. This study investigates polymer-lipid hybrid nanoparticles (PLNs) as an innovative drug delivery system to enhance the antibacterial efficacy of gentamicin (Gen) while addressing challenges related to its hydrophilicity and encapsulation. Using an optimized double-emulsification/solvent-evaporation technique, PLNs were designed to improve drug entrapment efficiency (EE%) and loading capacity (DL%). The resulting formulations were characterized for particle size, polydispersity, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. Transmitted electron microscopy (TEM) provided insights into particle morphology, while antibacterial activity was tested against multiple bacterial strains, including resistant isolates. The optimized formulation (F4) demonstrated significant improvements, achieving an EE% of 42%, a DL% of 7.2%, and uniform particle sizes (~143.4 nm) with high stability (zeta potential ~-38 mV) and a monodisperse distribution. TEM analysis confirmed Gen encapsulation within the lipid-polymer matrix. F4 exhibited notably enhanced antibacterial performance, particularly against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA-59) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA-78), with up to a 160-fold reduction in minimum inhibitory/bactericidal concentrations (MIC/MBC) compared to free Gen. These findings underscore the potential of PLNs as a robust platform for targeted drug delivery, offering a promising strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Cost-effective Detection of SNPs and Structural Variations in Full-length Genes of Wheat and Sunflower Using Multiplex PCR and Rapid Nanopore Kit
Authors: Polkhovskaya Ekaterina , Moskalev Evgeniy , Merkulov Pavel , Dudnikova Ksenia , Dudnikov Maksim , Gruzdev Ivan , Demurin Yakov , Soloviev Alexander , Kirov Ilya
Published: January 2025

The rapid identification of allele variants in target genes is crucial for accelerating marker-assisted selection (MAS) in plant breeding. Although current high-throughput genotyping methods are efficient in detecting known polymorphisms, they are limited when multiple variant sites are scat-tered along the gene. This study presents a target amplicon sequencing approach using Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT-TAS) to rapidly sequence full-length genes and identify allele variants in sunflower and wheat collections. This procedure combines multiplex PCR and a rapid sequencing kit, significantly reducing the time and cost compared to previous methods. The efficiency of the approach was demonstrated by sequencing four genes (Ahasl1, Ahasl2, Ahasl3, and FAD2) in 40 sunflower genotypes and three genes (Ppo, Wx, and Lox) in 30 wheat genotypes. Phylogenetic analysis based on SNPs identified five distinct groups in the sunflower collection and multiple alleles for each target wheat gene. The ONT-TAS approach enabled rapid characterization of the genetic diversity of the target genes in the germplasm collections, providing a complete picture of SNPs and InDels along the full-length genes. This method offers a high-throughput, cost-effective solution for genotyping and identifying novel allele variants in plant breeding pro-grams.
Advances in Energy Harvesting for Sustainable Wireless Sensor Networks: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Mushtaq Muhammad Umer , Venter Hein , Singh Avinash , Owais Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Energy harvesting wireless sensor networks (EH-WSNs) appear as the fundamental backbone of research that attempts to expand the lifespan and efficiency of sensor networks positioned in resource-constrained environments. This review paper provides a in-depth examination of latest developments in this area, highlighting the important components comprising routing protocols, energy management plans, cognitive radio applications, physical layer security (PLS), and EH approaches. Across a well-ordered investigation of these features, the article clarifies the notable developments in technology, highlights recent barriers, and inquires avenues for future revolution. The article starts by furnishing a detailed analysis of different energy harvesting methodologies, incorporating solar, thermal, kinetic, and radio frequency (RF) energy, and their respective efficacy in non-identical operational circumstances. It also inspects state-of-the-art energy management techniques aimed at optimizing energy consumption and storage to guarantee network operability. Moreover, the integration of cognitive radio into EH-WSNs is acutely assessed, highlighting its capacity to improve spectrum efficiency and tackle associated technological problems. The present work investigates ground-breaking methodologies in Physical Layer Security (PLS) that uses energy harvesting measures to improve the data security. In this review article, these techniques are explored with respect to classical encryption and discussed its as well the network security points of view. The assessment furthers criticizes traditional routing protocols and their significance in Energy Harvesting Wireless Sensor Networks (EH-WSNs) as well as the balance that has long been sought between energy efficiency and security in this space. The paper closes with the importance of continuous research to tackle existing challenges and to leverage newly available means as highlighted in this document. In order to adequately serve the increasingly changing requirements of EH-WSNs, future research will and should, be geared towards incorporating AI techniques with some advanced energy storage solutions. This paper discusses the integration of novel methodologies and interdisciplinary advancements for better performance, security and sustainability for WSNs.
Ubiquitination and Deubiquitination in Osteoarthritis: From Mechanisms to Therapeutic Advances
Authors: Yuan Zhi kun , Chen Guan hao , Li Yan hui , Hou Zhi qi , Zhang Hai yan
Published: January 2025

Chronic osteoarthritis (OA) is distinguished by the deterioration of cartilage within joints, resulting in pain and reduced joint function.With the aging of the population, the prevalence of OA is increasing, becoming a public health issue. Despite ongoing research, the exact pathogenesis of OA remains unclear, limiting the development of effective treatment strategies.The system involving ubiquitin and proteasomes is of vital importance in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis, with deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) regulating protein stability, activity, and localization, which are essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Aberrant DUB expression or dysfunction is closely associated with OA. DUBs exert a key role in modulating cellular signaling, inflammatory responses, and extracellular matrix degradation, which are processes related to OA, making them a new target for therapeutic research. However, DUB research is still in its infancy, and more basic research and clinical trials are needed to verify their safety and efficacy. This analysis condenses the operational mechanisms of Deubiquitinating Enzymes (DUBs) in osteoarthritis (OA) and explores prospective treatment approaches, discussing the challenges and future prospects of modulating the expression of E3 ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinating enzymes to improve the therapeutic effects for patients with osteoarthritis, aiming to promote the development of more effective OA treatment strategies.
Enhanced Privacy-Preserving Architecture for Fundus Disease Diagnosis with Federated Learning
Authors: Jiang Raymond , Kumar Yulia , Kruger Dov
Published: January 2025

Learning (ML) has grown exponentially. However, due to the many privacy regulations regarding personal data, sharing data from multiple sources and storing it in a single (centralized) location for traditional ML model training is often infeasible. Federated Learning (FL), a collaborative learning paradigm, can sidestep this major pill by allowing the creation of a global ML model that is trained by aggregating model weights from individual models that are separately trained on their own data silos, therefore avoiding any data privacy concerns. This study addresses the centralized data issue by applying a novel DataWeightedFed approach for effective fundus disease diagnosis from ophthalmic images. It includes a novel method for aggregating model weights by comparing the size of each model’s data and taking a dynamically weighted average of all the model’s weights. Experimental results showed a slight average of 1.85% loss in accuracy when training using FL compared to centralized ML model systems. The obtained results demonstrate that FL can achieve maximum privacy for ML in fundus disease diagnosis while only compromising a minuscule amount of accuracy, allowing for secure, collaborative ML model training within the eye healthcare space.
The Influence of Noise Exposure on Cognitive Function in Children and Adolescents: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fernández-Quezada David , Martínez-Fernández Diana Emilia , Fuentes Ileana , García-Estrada Joaquín , Luquin Sonia
Published: January 2025

Environmental noise has been consistently associated with adverse effects on cognitive function in children and adolescents. This study aimed to systematically evaluate research examining the impact of noise exposure on young individuals on cognitive function. This meta-analysis systematically reviewed and synthesized findings on the effects of different types of noise from eight original studies published between 2001 and 2023, examining the impact of noise exposure on cognitive performance across various cognitive domains in young populations. Our results indicate that noise exposure exerts a detrimental effect on cognitive performance in children and adolescents, SMD= –0.544, 95% CI [-0.616 to -0.472], z= -14.85; p < 0.0001. These findings demonstrate the significant influence of noise on cognition function.
Study on Distribution Law of Ground Stress in Main Coal Seam of Qinshui Coalfield
Authors: Youliang Feng , Longyun Wu
Published: January 2025

In order to investigate the distribution patterns of in situ stress in the main coal seams (3# and 15#) of the Qinshui coalfield, an in-depth analysis was conducted on the in situ stress measurement results obtained from 139 measurement points across 46 mines within the mining area. The findings indicate that the maximum horizontal principal stress in the coal mining area of both seams is generally higher than the vertical principal stress. The stress field exhibits characteristics of a tectonic stress field, while deeper regions display features of a vertical stress field. The in situ stress values in the mining area of coal seam 3# are predominantly characterized by moderate stress field zones, while those in the mining area of coal seam 15# are mainly composed of low to moderate stress field zones. The maximum horizontal principal stress in the Yangquan and Changzhi mining areas for both coal Seams 3# and 15# is concentrated in the NE direction, whereas in the Jincheng mining area, it is predominantly concentrated in the NW direction, indicating a clear directionality. With increasing depth, the following trends can be observed approximately: the maximum and minimum horizontal principal stress values generally exhibit an increasing trend, and the geological structures throughout the mining area are primarily dominated by horizontal tectonic movements; the lateral pressure ratio gradually decreases and tends to concentrate near the value of 1; the relative difference between the maximum and minimum principal stresses tends to increase, with the horizontal principal stress difference ratio concentrating near 0.5. The relationship between the average horizontal principal stress ratio (k) and vertical principal stress at different depths within the measured area follows Hawke-Brown’s general law for this relationship curve. The research results have important guiding significance for the design of coal mining engineering in this area.
Pig-Derived Lactobacillus reuteri as an Oral Vaccine Delivery System Overcomes the Intestinal Mucus Barrier to Induce Immune Responses
Authors: Guo Tiantian , Liu Lifei , Wang Shuai , Li Jiaxuan , Jiang Yanping , Cui Wen , liu Dandan , Li Yijing , Wang Li
Published: January 2025

Local mucosal immune responses play a crucial role in protecting mucosal surfaces from infections, with the mucus layer serving as a significant component of the mucosal barrier that prevents direct contact of foreign materials with epithelial cells. Research has focused on using Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as potential carriers for oral vaccines due to their ability to colonize the intestine and stimulate high levels of mucosal antibodies against expressed foreign antigens. However, the mechanism of the interaction between LAB vector and host intestine in the process of inducing immune response remains understudied. The intestinal mucus layer is a significant component of the mucosal barrier, which can prevent direct contact of foreign materials with intestinal epithelial cells. This article addresses this gap utilizing recombinant Pig-Derived Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) expressing the PEDV S1 antigen as a model strain and investigates how it traverses the mucus barrier upon entering the porcine small intestine to initiate immune responses. The results demonstrate that L. reuteri can penetrate and adhere to the interior of the mucus layer, subsequently being sampled by dendritic cells (DCs) to activate the immune system, and during intestinal colonization, L. reuteri can maintain its own replication. This study provides insights into the mechanisms by which LAB, as carriers of oral vaccines, overcome the intestine mucus barrier and induce mucosal immune responses, complements the interaction between LAB and the gut, offering valuable information for the application of LAB in oral vaccines to prevent intestinal infectious diseases.
The cost of soil degradation in one of the major breadbaskets in the world
Authors: Grassini Patricio , Monzon Juan Pablo , Andrade Jose , Rozas Hernán Sainz , Wyngaard Nicolas , Tenorio Fatima , Aramburu-Merlos Fernando , Andrade Fernando , Bert Federico , Brihet Juan , Calviño Pablo , Cassman Kenneth , Dobermann Achim , Ferraris Gustavo , Ferreyra Juan , Garcia Fernando , Gayo Sofia , Mercau Jorge , Regeiro Daniela , Calvo Nahuel Reussi , Salvagiotti Fernando , Taboada Miguel , Viglizzo Ernesto
Published: January 2025

The global food system relies on crop production in limited number of regions around the world. The South American Pampas region is a major breadbasket due to favorable weather and fertile soils for reliable crop production and capacity to produce a large grain and oilseeds surplus. However, for decades, nutrient inputs have been much lower than in other regions, leading to heavy “mining” of soil nutrient stocks. Here we evaluated the impact of soil degradation using soil and crop surveys and field-level data sets from across the Pampas. Compared to a balanced nutrient input management regime, current nutrient management reduces total grain output by 41 million tons and farmer profit by US$ 6.3 billion annually, which leads to a severe decline in soil organic carbon and nutrient stocks. We conclude that the region must improve its nutrient management to retain its role as a highly productive, global breadbasket while preserving soil health for future generations.
Structural basis of vilazodone dual binding mode to the serotonin transporter
Authors: Loland Claus , Kalenderoglou Iris , Nygaard Andreas , Vogt Caleb , Turaev Anton , Pape Tillmann , Adams Nathan , Newman Amy
Published: January 2025

The serotonin transporter (SERT) plays a pivotal role in regulating serotonin (5-HT) signaling and is a key target in treating psychiatric disorders. SERT has a binding site (S1) for 5-HT that also serves as a high-affinity binding site for antidepressants. The antidepressant vilazodone has been shown to inhibit SERT by binding to an allosteric site. Here, we present the cryo-EM structure of SERT with vilazodone bound to the S1 site and extending towards the allosteric site. We systematically dissect the vilazodone molecule into fragments and find that the terminal indole ring is the key determinant for its high affinity to SERT. Further, unlike typical Na+-dependent SERT-selective antidepressants, vilazodone exhibits a dissociation constant (KD) for purified SERT in the nanomolar range both in the presence or absence of Na+. We substantiate this binding mode by exploring the conformational impact of vilazodone binding to SERT using site-specific insertion of the fluorescent non-canonical amino acid Anap. Our results offer novel molecular insight into the distinct pharmacological profile of a clinically used polymodal antidepressant.
Investigation of Ore Quality and Its Geological Significance in the Tawenchahanxi Mining Area of East Kunlun
Authors: Li wenzhong , Ji bingyan , Li yanqing , Yuan guilin , Wang jun
Published: January 2025

The Tawenchahanxi mining area is a representative skarn-type deposit located in the Qimantage region, within the western section of the East Kunlun orogenic belt. Following over a decade of continuous development since exploration commenced in 2009, both the mining rights and detailed exploration rights have been submitted.This paper investigates various quality characteristics of the ore, including mineral composition, structural features, chemical composition, and ore types. The aim is to enhance our understanding of the mineralogical characteristics present in this area and to provide a foundation for future geological work.Research findings indicate that the mining area exhibits a rich diversity of ore types, with deposits characterized by multi-genesis processes, multiple stages of formation, and various mineral species. This complexity broadens prospecting opportunities within this region. The ore body contains 30.98% magnetic iron (mFe) content and 15.60% FeO content, resulting in an mFe/TFe ratio of 86%, classifying it as magnetite ore.Additionally, analyses reveal that the ore contains sulfur at 5.30%, arsenic at 0.30%, and MgO at 14.27%. The elevated levels of arsenic, sulfur, and MgO adversely affect the quality of iron concentrate and copper concentrate products. Furthermore, there exists a complex relationship among co-associated elements; thus, it is imperative to strengthen research on comprehensive recovery processes.
Weighted correlation network and differential expression analyses identify prognostic lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA-ceRNA regulatory network in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Guo Jun-Hui , Liu Bei-Bei , Chen Jun-Hui , Du Si-Run , Liu Chang , Li Dong-Dong , Wang Xin-Xin , Wang Xu , Bai Lu-Yuan , Liu Pei-Min , Ma Chun-Zheng , Zheng Yu-Ling , Xu Tian-Wen
Published: January 2025

Background
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common malignant tumours arose from the esophagus. ESCC is highly lethal due to the late onset of symptoms and therefore, there is an urgent need to deepen the molecular understanding of this disease and identify potential prognostic biomarkers to further guide ESCC treatment. As a type of non-coding RNAs, competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) reveals a novel mechanism of interaction between RNAs in various cancers. However, the understanding of the ceRNA regulatory network in ESCC is still unclear.
Methods
In this study, RNA-seq and clinicopathological characteristics data of ESCC and normal esophageal tissues was obtained from TCGA and GTEx database, respectively. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between ESCC and normal esophagel tissues were identified by employing R package (edgeR). Functional enrichment analysis of these DEGs was performed through the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes-Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (KEGG-GSEA). Subsequently, multivariate cox and survival analysis were performed to evaluate these DEGs. Then the expression of these 9 DEGs was investigated through Q-PCR in normal esophageal epithelial and ESCC cells.
Results
Compared to normal tissues, a total of 794 mRNAs were up-regulated and 1118 mRNAs were down-regulated in ESCC. The results of GO analysis showed an enrichment of the up-regulated genes in leukocyte migration, humoral immune response, phagocytosis and complement activation. Meanwhile, the results of KEGG-GSEA analysis showed an enrichment of the up-regulated genes in cell cycle, p53 signaling pathway and extracellular matrix receptor interaction, while an enrichment of the down-regulated genes in vascular smooth muscle contraction, ribosome and oxidative phosphorylation. The survival analysis identified significant association of poor prognosis with five up-regulated genes and four down-regulated genes.
Conclusion
This study identified several differential expression genes with prognostic values, and these genes may provide new insights into the roles of ceRNA regulatory network in ESCC.
Divergent Responses of Historic Rain-on-Snow Flood Extremes to a Warmer Climate
Authors: Hao Dalei , Bisht Gautam , Xu Donghui , Kumar Mukesh , Leung L. Ruby
Published: January 2025

Global warming is expected to shift high-impact flood risks induced by rain-on-snow (ROS). However, decision-makers lack guidance on how impactful events resembling historic ROS extreme floods with destructive consequences would unfold in a warmer climate. Using a kilometer-scale storyline analysis, we examine warming-induced changes in four historically-significant, decision-relevant ROS extreme flood events over the contiguous United States. The runoff of different extreme events shows divergent responses to a warmer climate due to altered water budget. Notably, the basin-wide runoff of 2017-Jan California flood event (2017CA-Jan) increases by ~53%/K. Warming shifts flood generating regimes along the elevation profile. Driven by increasing rainfall and snowmelt, high elevations could experience significantly increased runoff and unprecedented floods in a warmer climate. For 2017CA-Jan, runoff increases at ~162%/K over the regions above 1500 m. Low elevations encounter a shift in the flood regime from ROS-driven to rainfall-dominated due to increasing rainfall and diminished snowmelt. These underscore needs for a warming-adaptive, regime-customized strategy for flood control.
Intrapleural injection of Folactis promotes regression of malignant pleural effusion: a case of malignant pleural mesothelioma and the review of literatures
Authors: Ding Naiqing , Su Shu , Liu Baorui , Wang Lifeng
Published: January 2025

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is an aggressive and lethal malignancy that arises from the mesothelial cells lining the pleura. Diagnosis commonly occurs at an advanced stage, rendering patients unsuitable for surgical intervention. Pharmacological interventions have shown limited success in controlling the disease. In the present study, we present a case of malignant pleural mesothelioma with large pleural effusion, demonstrating elevated expression of PD-L1 (TPS 90%) and focal amplification of the MET gene (GCN:33.54). Unfortunately, the patient failed to respond to both anti-PD-1 immunotherapy and MET-targeted therapy. Although high-level expression of PD-L1 as well as MET alterations have been proven to be positively correlated with the efficacy of immunotherapy and MET inhibitors in other tumors, our case didn’t prove the tumor agnostic strategy in this scenario. Despite the rapid progress of the tumor, the pleural fluid of the patient was effectively managed following the intrapleural administration of FOLactis. It indicates that FOLactis has strong pleural fluid control ability and may not dependent on systemic immune response, even in highly malignant tumors. Besides, there is still a much greater need to undermine the molecular biological mechanisms and precision treatment in MPM.