bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AFF-LightNet: A Lightweight Ship Detection Architecture Based on Attentional Feature Fusion
Authors: Yuan Yingxiu , Yu Xiaoyan , Rong Xianwei , Wang Xiaozhou
Published: December 2024

Efficient mobile detection equipment plays a vital role in ensuring maritime safety, and accurate ship identification is crucial for maritime traffic. Recently, the most advanced learning-based methods have markedly improved the accuracy of ship detection, but these models often face huge challenges on resource limited mobile devices due to their large size and high computational requirements. Thus, we propose a lightweight ship detection network based on attentional feature fusion, called AFF-LightNet. To enhance the fusion of multi-scale features and semantically inconsistent features, we introduce iterative attentional feature fusion (IAFF) into the proposed neck network, improving the efficiency of feature fusion by introducing a multi-scale channel attention module. Also, deep and cross network version 2 (DCNv2) is replaced by Convolution (Conv) in the backbone network to further improve the detection accuracy of the proposed network. It enhances the spatial sampling position in convolution and Region of Interest (Rol) pooling by introducing offsets. Moreover, a lightweight convolution GhostConv was introduced into the head network to reduce the number of parameters and computation cost. Last, Scalable Intersection over Union (SIOU) loss was leveraged to improve the convergence speed of the model. We conduct extensive experiments on the publicly available dataset SeaShips and compare it with existing methods. The experimental results show that compared with the standard YOLOv8n, the improved network has an average accuracy of 98.8%, an increase of 0.4%, a reduction of 1.9 G in computational complexity, and a reduction of 0.19 M in parameter count.
The Extraction and Validation of Low-Frequency Wind-Generated Noise Source Levels in the Chukchi Plateau
Authors: Li Zhicheng , Yang Yanming , Wen Hongtao , Zhou Hongtao , Ruan Hailin , Zhang Yu
Published: December 2024

Low-frequency ocean noise (50–500 Hz) was recorded by a single omnidirectional hydrophone in the open waters of the Chukchi Plateau from 31 August 2021 to 6 September 2021 (local time). After other non-wind interference was filtered out, wind-generated noise source levels (NSLs) were extracted from the wind-generated noise. The correlation coefficients between the one-third octave wind-generated NSLs and sea surface wind speed exceed 0.84, an improvement of approximately 10% compared to those between the raw data and the wind speed. For 200–500 Hz, the wind-generated NSLs are highly consistent with Wilson’s (1983) estimated curve. The 50–300 Hz results closely match those of Chapman and Cornish (1993) from vertical line array (VLA) measurements. Both demonstrate the feasibility of extracting wind-generated NSLs by utilizing a single omnidirectional hydrophone in the Chukchi Plateau’s open waters. Furthermore, the research results of wind speed dependence and frequency dependence can be applied to calculate wind-generated NSLs in the Chukchi Plateau. Wind-derived ocean ambient noise data are useful for background correction in underwater target detection, recognition, tracking, and positioning.
Evaluation and Testing in Operational Environments: Accelerating Development Cycles for Maritime Unmanned Systems
Authors: Borges de Sousa João
Published: December 2024

According to Martec’s Law, technology is evolving exponentially, while organizations are evolving logarithmically. These two trends present unprecedent challenges to the development of future maritime unmanned vehicle systems (MUS). This is exacerbated by the fact that we are also witnessing a paradigm change in MUS, from the operation of vehicles to the operation of systems of systems (SoS), delivering unprecedented capabilities and powered by recent developments in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Here, we discuss the impact of these trends on technological and organizational development from the perspective of the increasing role of evaluation and testing in operational environments. This is carried out in the framework of systems engineering, with reference to three illustrative case studies and required advances, to highlight the impact of the paradigm change on the development and deployment of SoS. SoS will have both and fast development scales, thus requiring fast development models that can only be achieved by streamlining modeling, simulation, and operational experimentation processes.
The Constrained Disorder Principle Overcomes the Challenges of Methods for Assessing Uncertainty in Biological Systems
Authors: Ilan Yaron
Published: December 2024

Different disciplines are developing various methods for determining and dealing with uncertainties in complex systems. The constrained disorder principle (CDP) accounts for the randomness, variability, and uncertainty that characterize biological systems and are essential for their proper function. Per the CDP, intrinsic unpredictability is mandatory for the dynamicity of biological systems under continuously changing internal and external perturbations. The present paper describes some of the parameters and challenges associated with uncertainty and randomness in biological systems and presents methods for quantifying them. Modeling biological systems necessitates accounting for the randomness, variability, and underlying uncertainty of systems in health and disease. The CDP provides a scheme for dealing with uncertainty in biological systems and sets the basis for using them. This paper presents the CDP-based second-generation artificial intelligence system that incorporates variability to improve the effectiveness of medical interventions. It describes the use of the digital pill that comprises algorithm-based personalized treatment regimens regulated by closed-loop systems based on personalized signatures of variability. The CDP provides a method for using uncertainties in complex systems in an outcome-based manner.
RETRACTED: Chung et al. Long-Lasting Exendin-4-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles Ameliorate Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Damage in Diabetic Rats. J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12, 390
Authors: Chung Cheng-Hsun , Chung Shiu-Dong , Cheng Yu-Hsuan , Yang Chun-Pai , Chien Chiang-Ting
Published: December 2024

The Journal retracts the article “Long-Lasting Exendin-4-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles Ameliorate Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Damage in Diabetic Rats” [...]
Descriptive Analysis of Patients Treated with Diroximel Fumarate and Dimethyl Fumarate—A Real-Life Experience
Authors: Blanco-Ruiz Marina , Sánchez-Rodríguez Belén , Ruiz-Franco Maria Luisa , Molina Cuadrado Emilio , Sierra García Francisco , Muñoz Fernández Carmen
Published: December 2024

Background: Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and diroximel fumarate (DRF) are two treatments used for multiple sclerosis (MS) that have been shown to be effective in controlling MS patients. DRF was introduced in 2019 with the aim of decreasing the gastrointestinal side effects caused by DMF. Few real-life studies verify the data provided in the clinical trials. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on MS patients at the Hospital Universitario Torrecárdenas under treatment with DRF and DMF. Demographic, clinical, and analytical variables were studied and compared between groups. Results: A total of 60 patients were recruited, 30 with each treatment, observing similar baseline characteristics. Fewer gastrointestinal (GI) effects were observed in the DRF group, while more infections were detected in the DMF group. We recorded lower levels in the DRF group, with four cases of moderate-severe lymphopenia in the DRF group vs. none in the DMF group. In addition, we observed a decrease in lymphocytes after the change from DMF to DRF in patients with a change. Conclusions: Our real-life analysis of patients treated with DMF or DRF supports several studies’ findings regarding decreased GI side effects with DRF vs. DMF without decreasing efficacy. However, our data show a greater reduction in lymphocytes in patients with DRF compared to DMF, so more studies are necessary.
Cross-Platform Logistics Collaboration: The Impact of a Self-Built Delivery Service
Authors: Li Lanbo , Li Gang
Published: December 2024

Motivated by the collaboration of a takeout platform and a crowdsourced delivery platform, we developed a stylized model to explore the interplay between the two platforms’ decisions. We captured the cross-platform network effects of the two complementary platforms, and investigated how the collaboration between the two platforms shapes the optimal prices, platform profits, and social welfare. We found that the takeout platform optimally adopts a subsidy pricing strategy when its commission rate is relatively high. In addition, when the demand-side network effect coefficient increases, the delivery platform optimally raises the shipping fee to trigger a larger supply of drivers. Furthermore, we found that the takeout platform introducing a self-logistics service reduces the subsidy intensity and raises the subsidy threshold. It also reshapes the strategic two-sided pricing to increase the network benefit when the network effect coefficient grows on one side. Specifically, as the supply-side network effect coefficient increases, instead of lowering the delivery price to increase demand and further increase the drivers’ network benefit, the takeout platform optimally raises it under certain conditions. Finally, self-logistics may benefit the takeout platform, while hurting the delivery platform, and it can increase social welfare. Our results, thus, unveil a price regime for platform collaboration and validate the effectiveness of the introduction of self-logistics by takeout platforms.
Can Short Videos Work? The Effects of Use and Gratification and Social Presence on Purchase Intention: Examining the Mediating Role of Digital Dependency
Authors: Jiang Wenyu , Chen Hsiu-Li
Published: December 2024

The main purpose of this study is to examine how use and gratification and social presence might influence the purchase intention of the products presented in the short videos, mediated by perceived value, attitude, and digital dependency. The research model was constructed using structural equation modeling (SEM) and was tested by using the LISREL technique. Some significant findings of our empirical study include the following: First, use and gratification and social presence significantly enhance consumers’ perceived value, which subsequently positively influences their attitude towards short video content. Second, perceived value and attitude towards short videos have positive effects on digital dependency, which consequently enhances purchase intention. Third, digital dependency mediates the relationship between perceived value and purchase intention, as well as between attitude and purchase intention. We concluded that the AI system algorithm increases the likelihood of users encountering videos aligned with their preferences, thereby fostering a greater digital dependency. Businesses utilizing short video marketing must enhance content quality, focusing on user engagement and social presence, to effectively attract both new and returning viewers. When users possess a strong understanding of value and attitude, algorithms can cultivate a digital dependence on video content, subsequently influencing their purchase behavior.
Can Rural Industrial Convergence Alleviate Urban–Rural Income Inequality?: Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Qi Zhenyu , Wu Zixing , You Yuezhou , Zhan Xiaoying
Published: December 2024

In many countries, the urban–rural income inequality affects healthy and sustainable economic development and is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. As a new industrial development model, rural industrial convergence can provide new ideas and impetus for alleviating the urban–rural income inequality. This study, drawing on provincial panel data from China spanning 2010 to 2022, used the entropy method and Theil index to measure the rural industrial convergence and the urban–rural income inequality, respectively, and empirically tested the effect and mechanism of rural industrial convergence on the urban–rural income inequality. The results showed the following: (1) Rural industrial convergence had a notable impact on alleviating the urban–rural income inequality. (2) Rural industrial convergence could help reduce the urban–rural income inequality by increasing the scale of land operation. (3) The government attention to green development could positively moderate the impact of rural industrial convergence on the urban–rural income inequality; the deeper the government attention to green development, the greater the role rural industrial convergence played in alleviating the urban–rural income inequality. (4) There was a threshold effect in the alleviating effect of rural industrial convergence on the urban–rural income inequality, which was gradually strengthened when the growth of the digital economy and the enhancement of the business environment were beyond the threshold point. (5) Rural industrial convergence also had significant spatial spillover effects on adjacent regions. Overall, the findings of this study enrich the research on the impact of rural industrial convergence on the urban–rural income inequality and provide insights for other similar countries.
The Concept of Informal Green Space in Academic Research: A Comprehensive Literature Review on the Terminology Used
Authors: Ta Duy Thong , Wang Huixin , Furuya Katsunori
Published: December 2024

Informal green spaces (IGSs) are vital yet under-researched urban areas that enhance biodiversity, provide ecosystem services, and improve the well-being of urban residents. However, the lack of a consistent definition and comprehensive understanding of their multifunctional roles has hindered their effective integration into urban planning. The current literature review aimed to clarify the concept of IGSs, analyze research trends, and identify further research areas. Using a combined bibliometric and systematic analysis approach, 150 articles from the Web of Science database, published from 1996 to 2024, were analyzed. The systematic analysis identified 54 relevant documents on the effects of green areas, revealing a diverse and growing body of research on IGSs, including their types, distribution, and socioeconomic contexts. The findings indicated an increasing trend in collaborative studies, using “informal green space” as the official term. This review proposed a clear and comprehensive definition of IGS, emphasizing its visibility, lack of formal recognition, minimal management, spontaneous vegetation, and temporary nature and underscoring its substantial environmental and social benefits. Furthermore, this review highlighted the need for standardized definitions and interdisciplinary studies to fully harness the potential of IGSs, thereby emphasizing their essential contribution to urban biodiversity and the regulation of urban microclimates.
How Does Social Mobilization Shape the Collective Coproduction of Urban Community Regeneration in China?
Authors: Wu Jinpeng , Chen Yuting , Shi Ruiqi , Xiong Jing
Published: December 2024

Citizen participation has become a key part of promoting community regeneration and improving community governance. Coproduction, especially collective coproduction—a way in which residents can be deeply involved in community regeneration—is important to public service performance and social values. However, little research has empirically examined the patterns and determinants of collective coproduction. Against the backdrop of Chinese grassroots governance, this article employs social mobilization theory to explore the key factors contributing to collective coproduction and develops a theoretical framework that focuses on how the combination of top-down and bottom-up social mobilization shapes it. By comparing four urban cases of community regeneration coproduction in the P district of Shanghai, we conclude that when local governments perceive differentiated variations among governance objectives, they tend to come up with various social mobilization schemes accordingly. When local governments adopt all-around, point-to-point, targeted, or random mobilization schemes, this often results in four corresponding patterns of community collective coproduction: comprehensive, generalized, club, and formalistic. The contribution of this paper is in its provision of a comprehensive and dynamic viewpoint to explore the impact of social mobilization on community-based collective coproduction patterns, forming a new understanding of the collective coproduction formation mechanism.
Impact of Climate Change on Snowmelt Erosion Risk
Authors: Podhrázská Jana , Szturc Jan , Kučera Josef , Chuchma Filip
Published: December 2024

Climate change affects all sectors of human activity. Agricultural management is influenced by changes in temperature and precipitation distribution both during the growing season and in the non-growing period. The contribution of snowmelt erosion to the total annual loss of arable soil has not yet been sufficiently emphasized. Based on the USLE principle, an equation for soil loss caused by snowmelt was derived, and the erosion potential of snow was determined for the conditions in the Czech Republic. In the foothill area of Větřkovice, an analysis of changes in selected climatic characteristics in the years 1961–2020 was elaborated. It was shown that the area is warming and the number of days with temperatures below 0 °C is decreasing. The total annual precipitation decreased by 18 mm. Furthermore, the erosion potential was compared in two referential periods for both the entire Czech Republic and the Větřkovice area, and a case study of soil loss due to snowmelt erosion was prepared. Despite a slight reduction in the erosion potential in the model area, the erosion shear from snowmelt reaches values higher than the permissible limit.
How Do Temporal and Geographical Kernels Differ in Reflecting Regional Disparities? Insights from a Case Study in China
Authors: Wei Chunzhu , Liu Xufeng , Chen Wei , Zhang Lupan , Chao Ruixia , Wei Wei
Published: December 2024

Rapid economic growth in China has brought about a significant challenge: the widening gap in regional development. Addressing this disparity is crucial for ensuring sustainable development. However, existing studies have largely overlooked the intrinsic spatial and temporal dynamics of regional disparities on various levels. This study thus employed five advanced multiscale geographically and temporally weighted regression models—GWR, MGWR, GTWR, MGTWR, and STWR—to analyze the spatio-temporal relationships between ten key conventional socio-economic indicators and per capita GDP across different administrative levels in China from 2000 to 2019. The findings highlight a consistent increase in regional disparities, with secondary industry emerging as a dominant driver of long-term economic inequality among the indicators analyzed. While a clear inland-to-coastal gradient underscores the persistence of regional disparity determinants, areas with greater economic disparities exhibit pronounced spatio-temporal heterogeneity. Among the models, STWR outperforms others in capturing and interpreting local variations in spatio-temporal disparities, demonstrating its utility in understanding complex regional dynamics. This study provides novel insights into the spatio-temporal determinants of regional economic disparities, offering a robust analytical framework for policymakers to address region-specific variables driving inequality over time and space. These insights contribute to the development of targeted and dynamic policies for promoting balanced and sustainable regional growth.
The Right to Be Oneself: The International and Italian Situation Regarding Gender Incongruence, Focusing on Legislation, Rights, Access to Care, and Appropriateness
Authors: Di Fazio Nicola , Delogu Giuseppe , Ottaviani Miriam , Volonnino Gianpietro , Arcangeli Mauro , Del Duca Fabio , Treves Biancamaria , La Russa Raffaele
Published: December 2024

Gender incongruence is a current issue with implications in the legislative, social, and healthcare fields. In this context, misinformation is, at present, the main enemy of transgender rights equity. Over time, the scientific community has worked to reclassify this condition, removing it from psychiatric diagnoses. The method of our work involved investigating and comparing the different social and legislative measures adopted by various countries to ensure the rights and equality of individuals with gender incongruence. The result showed that there are various international approaches allowing adult and minor patients to access medical and administrative procedures for gender transition. In conclusion, there appears to be a need for international bioethical and legislative guidance in order to reduce and eventually eliminate the social inequalities faced by individuals with gender incongruence.
Variabilities in Retinal Hemodynamics Across the Menstrual Cycle in Healthy Women Identified Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Donica Vlad Constantin , Donica Alexandra Lori , Pavel Irina Andreea , Danielescu Ciprian , Alexa Anisia Iuliana , Bogdănici Camelia Margareta
Published: December 2024

Background: Numerous conditions, both physiological and pathological, can influence changes in the retinal vascular architecture. In order to be able to highlight pathological aspects of systemic diseases with ocular activity, it is necessary to understand how physiological fluctuations can influence circulation at the retinal level. The present study attempts to evaluate retinal and choroidal vascular and structural changes in healthy female subjects over the course of a menstrual cycle using OCT-A. Methods: We analyzed 22 eyes from healthy reproductive women with a regular menstrual cycle. We performed five OCT-A scans of the subjects every 7–8 days over the course of a month starting from the first day of the menstrual cycle and ending with the first day of the next cycle, measuring perfusion density in the superficial and deep vascular plexuses, choroidal thickness, and FAZ perimeter. Results: There are physiological variations in retinal hemodynamics that can be identified using OCT-A, choroidal thickness having statistically significant increased values in the parafoveal nasal sector during the ovulatory phase (289.18 µm) compared to the early follicular phase (281.9 µm), and the subfoveal sector during the ovulatory phase (319.04 µm) compared to the early follicular phase (308.27 µm). Conclusions: These findings along with abnormally small FAZ perimeters indicate that the menstrual cycle phase should be considered whenever interpreting OCT-A results. Further studies that include larger cohorts, control groups, and hormone serum levels are necessary to confirm and correlate retinal vascular alterations and the phase of the menstrual cycle using OCT-A.
Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) Juice Supplementation Affects Age-Related Myocardial Remodeling in Rats
Authors: Daskalova Elena , Pencheva Mina , Delchev Slavi , Vladimirova-Kitova Lyudmila , Kitov Spas , Markov Stoyan , Baruh David , Denev Petko
Published: December 2024

Background: Cardiac aging is associated with myocardial remodeling and reduced angiogenesis. Counteracting these changes with natural products is a preventive strategy with great potential. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Aronia melanocarpa fruit juice (AMJ) supplementation on age-related myocardial remodeling in aged rat hearts. Methods: Healthy male Wistar rats (n = 24) were divided into three groups: (1) young controls (CY)—age 2 months; (2) old controls (CO)—age 27 months; (3) AMJ group—27-month-old animals, supplemented with Aronia melanocarpa juice (AMJ) at a dose of 10 mL∙kg−1 for 105 days. After this period, the hearts of the animals were fixed, embedded in paraffin, and immunohistochemical and morphometric analyses were performed. Results: A higher vascular and capillary density was found in the hearts of the AMJ group, as compared to CO. The mean number of CD34+ cells in the myocardium increased by 18.6% in the AMJ group, as compared to CO (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) immunoexpression in the myocardium increased by 37% (p < 0.05) and the Proto-oncogene Mas receptor (MAS1) immunoexpression increased by 6% (p < 0.05) in the AMJ group, as compared to CO. Conclusions: As a result of the application of AMJ, noticeable neovascularization was found, which indicates improved myocardial nourishment. The present study demonstrates for the first time that polyphenol-rich AMJ can positively influence age-related microvascular myocardial remodeling in rats, thus outlining its potential as a preventive agent for healthy cardiac aging.
Global Burden of Esophageal Cancer and Its Risk Factors: A Systematic Analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Ilic Irena , Zivanovic Macuzic Ivana , Ravic-Nikolic Ana , Ilic Milena , Milicic Vesna
Published: December 2024

Background: Esophageal cancer is a major public health issue, yet risk factors for its occurrence are still insufficiently known. This study aimed to estimate the global burden of esophageal cancer and its risk factors. Methods: This ecological study presented the incidence, mortality, and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) of esophageal cancer in the world. This study collected the Global Burden of Disease study data from 1990 to 2019. Trends in esophageal cancer burden were assessed using the joinpoint regression analysis and calculating the average annual percent change (AAPC). Results: Globally, in 2019, in both sexes and all ages, the ASR for the incidence of esophageal cancer was 6.5 per 100,000 and for mortality, 6.1 per 100,000. The global proportion of DALYs for esophageal cancer attributable to selected behavioral, metabolic, and dietary risk factors was similar in males and females: chewing tobacco (3.8% vs. 5.1%), diet low in fruits (10.1% vs. 12.6%), diet low in vegetables (3.3% vs. 4.6%), and high body mass index (18.8% vs. 19.3%). However, the proportion of DALYs for esophageal cancer attributable to smoking and alcohol use was 4–5 times higher in males than in females (50.1% vs. 11.3%, and 29.6% vs. 5.1%, respectively). From 1990 to 2019, a significant decrease in global trends in rates of DALYs for esophageal cancer attributable to smoking (AAPC = −1.6%), chewing tobacco (AAPC = −0.5%), alcohol use (AAPC = −1.0%), a diet low in fruits (AAPC = −3.1%), and a diet low in vegetables (AAPC = −3.6%) was observed, while a significant increase in trends was observed in DALYs rates for esophageal cancer attributable to a high body mass index (AAPC = +0.4%). Conclusions: More epidemiological research is needed to elucidate the relationship between esophageal cancer and certain risk factors and guide prevention efforts.
Associations of Voice Metrics with Postural Function in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Gianlorenço Anna Carolyna , Costa Valton , Fabris-Moraes Walter , Teixeira Paulo Eduardo Portes , Gonzalez Paola , Pacheco-Barrios Kevin , Ramos-Estebanez Ciro , Di Stadio Arianna , El-Hagrassy Mirret M. , Camsari Deniz Durok , Wagner Tim , Dipietro Laura , Fregni Felipe
Published: December 2024

Background: This study aimed to explore the potential associations between voice metrics of patients with PD and their motor symptoms. Methods: Motor and vocal data including the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale part III (UPDRS-III), Harmonic–Noise Ratio (HNR), jitter, shimmer, and smoothed cepstral peak prominence (CPPS) were analyzed through exploratory correlations followed by univariate linear regression analyses. We employed these four voice metrics as independent variables and the total and sub-scores of the UPDRS-III as dependent variables. Results: Thirteen subjects were included, 76% males and 24% females, with a mean age of 62.9 ± 10.1 years, and a median Hoehn and Yahr stage of 2.3 ± 0.7. The regression analysis showed that CPPS is associated with posture (UPDRS-III posture scores: β = −0.196; F = 10.0; p = 0.01; R2 = 0.50) and UPDRS-III postural stability scores (β = −0.130; F = 5.57; p = 0.04; R2 = 0.35). Additionally, the associations between CPPS and rapid alternating movement (β = −0.297; p = 0.07), rigidity (β= −0.36; p = 0.11), and body bradykinesia (β = −0.16; p = 0.13) showed a trend towards significance. Conclusion: These findings highlight the potential role of CPPS as a predictor of postural impairments secondary to PD, emphasizing the need for further investigation.
Postpartum Exudation of Idiopathic Quiescent Macular Neovascularization: A Narrative Review with a Related Case Report
Authors: Vitiello Livio , De Bernardo Maddalena , De Pascale Ilaria , Salerno Giulio , Pellegrino Alfonso , Rosa Nicola
Published: December 2024

The abnormal growth of irregular new blood vessels into the subretinal or intraretinal space is known as macular neovascularization (MNV). People over 50 are often affected by this disorder, which is typically brought on by age-related macular degeneration. In addition, MNV can be found in people under 50 years of age, who may present primary ophthalmic diseases such as pathological myopia, angioid streaks, traumatic choroidal rupture, or suspected ocular histoplasmosis syndrome. However, it is important to consider a specific set of young individuals who may develop MNV even in the absence of pathological myopia or other identifiable inflammatory, peripapillary, post-traumatic, or degenerative fundus abnormalities. This latter condition is classified as idiopathic MNV. After a literature review focused on young patients affected by one of these two clinical entities, we report the case of a Caucasian young woman suffering for four years from an idiopathic and quiescent MNV that started exuding after childbirth, probably due to the induction with oxytocin, and was treated with intravitreal Aflibercept 2 mg injections.
Assessment of the Effectiveness of Fascial Manipulation in Patients with Degenerative Disc Disease of the Lumbosacral Spine
Authors: Mikołajczyk-Kocięcka Anna , Kocięcki Marek , Cyryłowski Lech , Szylińska Aleksandra , Rynio Paweł , Gębska Magdalena , Szuba Ewelina , Kaźmierczak Jarosław
Published: December 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Fascial Manipulation in patients with disc herniations of the lumbar spine confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Material and Methods: This study included 69 patients with intervertebral disc damage of the lumbar spine, as confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were divided into two groups: a study group and a control group. The control group (C) was treated conservatively with treatments such as interference currents, diadynamic currents, tens currents, galvanization, Sollux lamps, local cryotherapy, magnetic fields, therapeutic massages of the spine, and mobility exercises. The study group (S) was subjected to therapy using Fascial Manipulation, which included two treatments—the first on the day the patient reported for the study and the second a week later. Patients for this study were selected at random. Results: This study presents a statistically significant difference between the treatment effects, as assessed by the degree of pain (p < 0.001) and mobility limitation (p < 0.001), as well as the presence of stretch symptoms (p < 0.001): all three parameters improved significantly more in the study group compared to the control group. Conclusion: Fascial Manipulation is an effective method for treating pain in patients with disc herniations of the lumbar spine; in addition to reducing pain, it improves the range of motion and the results of SLR and PKB tests. In lumbar spine pain in disc herniations, treatment using Fascial Manipulation is definitely more effective than treatment according to the traditional physiotherapy regimen.
Role of Coagulation Factors in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Literature Review
Authors: Azam Azeem , Klisic Aleksandra , Mercantepe Filiz , Faseeh Hamza , Mercantepe Tolga , Rafaqat Saira
Published: December 2024

Hepatocyte carcinoma (HCC) is a globally prevalent neoplasm with profound effects on morbidity and mortality rates. This review summarizes the complex interactions between coagulation abnormalities and the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying HCC. Essential coagulation biomarkers, such as P-selectin, thrombomodulin, d-dimer, prothrombin, and von Willebrand factor, are reviewed for their diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic significance. The contribution of these biomarkers to tumor progression, metastatic spread, and patient prognosis is highlighted through a synthesis of contemporary research findings. In addition, this review highlights the underlying mechanisms linking coagulation pathways to HCC pathogenesis and explores potential therapeutic targets. An integrative perspective on the role of coagulation markers in HCC may improve clinical management strategies for patients affected by this malignancy.
Morphological Evolution and Extinction of Eodiscids and Agnostoid Arthropods
Authors: Li Huarui , Dai Tao , Chen Yanlong , Xue Chunling , Strotz Luke C.
Published: December 2024

The temporal range of eodiscids and agnostoid arthropods overlaps with several early Paleozoic geological events of evolutionary significance. However, the responses of agnostids to these events and how the perturbations associated with them (both abiotic and/or biotic) may have impacted agnostids remain uncertain. To address this uncertainty, we employ geometric morphometrics to reconstruct morphospace occupation for agnostids, thereby elucidating their evolutionary response to geological events during the early Paleozoic. The results indicate that maximum morphospace occupation was reached by Cambrian Series 2 and then declined soon thereafter. Subsequent reductions in agnostid morphospace occupation coincide not only with significant abiotic changes and associated extinction events, such as the Botoman–Toyonian Extinctions (BTEs), the Redlichiid–Olenellid Extinction Carbon Isotope Excursion (ROECE), the Drumian Carbon Isotope Excursion (DICE), and the Steptoean Positive Carbon Isotope Excursion event (SPICE), but also with major evolutionary episodes, such as the Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event (GOBE). These repeated and periodic declines in agnostid morphological diversity following Cambrian Series 2 suggest that the extinction of agnostids reflects the culmination of an episodic reduction in morphological occupancy for agnostids rather than a singular, sudden event. Accordingly, it cannot be tied to a single cause, either abiotic or biotic.
Evaluation of Two Different Treatments for Larch Logs as Substrates to Cultivate Ganoderma tsugae in the Forest
Authors: Xia Lei , Tan Xiao , Wang Peng , Yang Dahai , Zhang Yang , Cui Yanru , Yu Ya , Zhang Weidong , Huang Xiao , Wen Jiawei
Published: December 2024

Larch wood, a prevalent cultivation medium for Ganoderma tsugae, has yet to be scrutinized concerning the differential impacts of sterilized and non-sterilized substrates on the growth and development of this fungus. Our present investigation sought to elucidate these effects in a forest-like environment. After larch wood segments were sun-dried, they were divided into two groups; one group was bagged and autoclaved, while the other group was bagged without any treatment. Subsequently, all segments were inoculated with the G. tsugae strain HLXL1 and ensconced under the canopy of a Pinus koraiensis forest, thereby approximating the conditions of natural growth. Wild G. tsugae was used as the control. Data on agronomic traits, production days, fruiting body yield, and effective constituent content were analyzed. The results indicated no significant differences between sterilized and non-sterilized substrates in terms of agronomic traits. However, the mineral content and bioactive compounds in G. tsugae fruiting bodies significantly differed across various growth stages. The outcomes were optimal for non-sterilized substrates, followed by sterilized substrates, while the wild strains were markedly less effective than the cultivated ones.
Copepod Lipidomics: Fatty Acid Substituents of Structural Lipids in Labidocerca aestiva, a Dominant Species in the Food Chain of the Apalachicola Estuary of the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Wood Paul L. , Kunigelis Stan C.
Published: December 2024

Zooplanktonic copepods represent a major biological mass in the marine food chain that can be affected by climate change. Monitoring the health of this critical biomass is essential for increasing our understanding of the impact of environmental changes on marine environments. Since the lipidomes of marine organisms are known to adapt to alterations in pH, temperature, and availability of metabolic precursors, lipidomics is one technology that can be used for monitoring copepod adaptations. Among the key lipid parameters that can be monitored are the fatty acid substituents of glycerolipids and glycerophospholipids. We utilized high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (≤2 ppm mass error) to characterize the fatty acid substituents of triacylglycerols, glycerophosphocholines, ceramides, and sphingomyelins of Labidocerca aestiva. This included monitoring for furan fatty acid substituents, a family of fatty acids unique to marine organisms. These data will contribute to establishing a lipid database of the fatty acid substituents of essential structural lipids. The key findings were that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were only major substituents in glycerophosphocholines with 36 to 44 carbons. Triacylglycerols, ceramides, and sphingomyelins contained minimal PUFA substituents. Furan fatty acids were limited to mono- and di-acylglycerols. In summary, we have built a baseline database of the fatty acid substituents of key structural lipids in Labidocerca aestiva. With this database, we will next evaluate potential seasonal changes in these lipid substituents and long-term effects of climate change.
Effects of SARS-CoV-2 Spike S1 Subunit on the Interplay Between Hepatitis B and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Related Molecular Processes in Human Liver
Authors: Colonna Giovanni
Published: December 2024

Background: This study addresses a particular aspect of the biological behavior of the Spike subunit S1 of SARS-CoV-2. Researchers observed S1 acting freely in the human organism during and after COVID-19 and vaccination. One of its properties is that it interacts one-to-one with human proteins. S1 interacts with 12 specific human proteins in the liver. Methods: We used these proteins as seeds to extract their functional relationships from the human proteome through enrichment. The interactome representing the set of metabolic activities in which they are involved shows several molecular processes (KEGG), including some linked to HBV (hepatitis B) and HCC (hepatocellular carcinoma) with many genes/proteins involved. Reports show that, in some COVID patients, HBV reactivated or progressed to cancer. Results: We analyzed the interactome with several approaches to understand whether the two pathologies have independent progressions or a common progression. All our efforts consistently showed that the molecular processes involving both HBV and HCC are significantly present in all approaches we used, making it difficult to extract any useful information about their fate. Through BioGRID, we extracted experimental data in vivo but derived it from model cell systems. The lack of patient data in STRING results prevents diagnosis or prediction of real disease progression; therefore, we can consider them “aseptic” model data. Conclusion: The interactome tells us that genes involved in HCC and HVB-related pathways have the potential to activate disease processes. We can consider them as a gold standard. It is the comparison with similar molecular interactions found in individual human phenotypes that shows us whether the phenotype favors or hinders their progression. This also suggests how to use these features. These sets of proteins constitute a molecular “toolkit”. In fact, if we compare them with similar molecular sets of the patient, they will provide us with information on the level of the phenotypic state that is driving the disease. The information derived from the composition of an entire group of proteins is broader and more detailed than a single marker. Therefore, these protein compositions can serve as a reference system with which doctors can compare specific cases for personalized molecular medicine diagnoses.
Impact of Supply Chain Management on Business Sustainability: Case of Water Bottling Companies in and Around Finfinnee, Ethiopia
Authors: Amentae Tadesse Kenea , Gebresenbet Girma , Abdela Nuredin Jemal
Published: December 2024

Background: Effective supply chain management (SCM) is widely considered vital for enhancing business sustainability, yet empirical evidence across industries and contexts remains limited. This paper aims to address this gap by presenting empirical findings specific to a particular industry, business size, and economic setting. Methods: The data are collected from small- and medium-sized water bottling companies in Ethiopia utilizing a Likert scale questionnaire and analyzed using SPPS version 29 using multi-variable regression analysis. Results: The findings reveal a statistically significant positive influence of supply chain management practices on economic, environmental, and social sustainability business performances. Accordingly, supply chain internal practices and customer and supplier integration impact business economic sustainability, while customer and supplier integration affect business environmental sustainability performance. Customer integration, supplier integration, and supply chain internal practices significantly influence business social sustainability performance. Conclusions: These results highlight the potential for businesses to achieve holistic sustainability goals through targeted improvements in SCM practices. The research results are consistent with most previous studies on this topic, except for a few variations that may need further investigation. The discussion highlighted the intricate links between supply chain management practices and business sustainability, underscoring the need for comprehensive further empirical studies in various contexts.
Analysis of the Influence of Manufacturing Technology on Selected Static, Fatigue and Morphological Properties of CFRP Composites
Authors: Kubit Andrzej , Debnath Kishore , Slota Ján , Dominik Filip , Dubey Ankit Dhar , Rao Gorrepotu Surya , Żaba Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the mechanical properties of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites produced using three popular technologies. The tests were performed on composites produced from prepregs in an autoclave, the next variant is composites produced using the infusion method, and the third variant concerns composites produced using the vacuum-assisted hand lay-up method. For each variant, flat plates with dimensions of 1000 mm × 1000 mm were produced while maintaining similar material properties and fabric arrangement configuration. Samples for testing were cut using a plotter in the 0° and 45° directions. Non-destructive tests (NDTs) were carried out using the active thermography method, demonstrating the correctness of the composites, i.e., the absence of structural defects for all variants. Static peel strength tests were carried out for samples with different directional orientations. The tests were carried out at temperatures of +25 °C and +80 °C. At room temperature, similar strengths were demonstrated, which for the 0° orientation were 619 MPa, 599 MPa and 536 MPa for the autoclave, vacuum and infusion variants, respectively. However, at a temperature of +80 °C, only the composite produced in the autoclave maintained the stability of its properties, showing a strength of 668 MPa. Meanwhile, in the case of the composite produced by the infusion method, a decrease in strength at an elevated temperature of 46.5% was demonstrated, while for the composite produced by the hand lay-up method, there was a decrease of 46.2%. For the last two variants, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis of epoxy resins constituting the composite matrices was carried out, showing a glass transition temperature value of 49.91 °C for the infusion variant and 56.07 °C for the vacuum variant. In the three-point static bending test, the highest strength was also demonstrated for the 0ᵒ orientation, and the bending strength was 1088 MPa for the autoclave variant, 634 MPa for the infusion variant and 547 MPa for the vacuum variant. The fatigue strength tests in tension at 80% of the static strength for the infusion variant showed an average fatigue life of 678.788 × 103 cycles for the autoclave variant, 176.620 × 103 cycles for the vacuum variant and 159.539 × 103 cycles for the infusion variant.
Thermal Optimization of Edge-Emitting Lasers Arrays
Authors: Sarzała Robert P. , Dąbrówka Dominika , Dems Maciej
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a novel approach to address the issue of uneven temperature distribution in one-dimensional laser arrays, specifically in gallium nitride edge-emitting lasers emitting green light of 540 nm. The results were obtained using heat flow numerical analysis, which included an optimization method specifically developed for this type of array. It was demonstrated that thermal optimization of a one-dimensional edge-emitting laser array can be achieved by adjusting the placement of the emitters within the array and the size of the top gold contact, without changing the overall dimensions of the device. The proposed design alterations ensure an even temperature distribution across the array without the need for a complex and expensive cooling systems. The proposed optimization method can be applied to arrays made from various material systems, including nitrides, arsenides, and phosphides.
The Potential of Using Shungite Mineral from Eastern Kazakhstan in Formulations for Rubber Technical Products
Authors: Nechipurenko Sergey V. , Bobrova Valeriya V. , Kasperovich Andrey V. , Yermaganbetov Mubarak Ye. , Yefremov Sergey A. , Kaiaidarova Aigerim K. , Makhayeva Danelya N. , Yermukhambetova Bayana B. , Mun Grigoriy A. , Irmukhametova Galiya S.
Published: December 2024

This study examined the effect of partially replacing semi-reinforcing carbon black grade N550 (up to 10 pts. wt.) and fully replacing industrial chalk with natural shungite mineral in industrial formulations of elastomer compositions intended for manufacturing various rubber technical products. It has been shown that due to the high content of carbon and silicon components in the composition of shungite mineral micropowders, their use as a filler in elastomer formulations significantly improves the physical and mechanical properties of rubber technical products (RTPs) manufactured using such compositions. It was determined that the use of SM as a partial replacement for carbon black in rubbers intended for molded rubber technical products contributes to a reduction in Mooney viscosity (up to 26.8%) and optimal vulcanization time (up to 23.7%), achieving rubbers with the required set of physical–mechanical properties and with an enhancing sealing capability (up to 19.7%). It has been established that the use of shungite mineral micropowders as a complete replacement for industrial chalk increases the strength of rubber products (RTPs) by up to 18.5% and enhances their resistance to liquid aggressive environments.