bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indicadores de Sostenibilidad y su Impacto Financiero y Social en Empresas Ecuatorianas: Revisión Teórica
Authors: Marín-Niño Cosme
Published: December 2024

La sostenibilidad empresarial ha cobrado relevancia en Ecuador, impulsada por la necesidad de las empresas de adaptarse a un entorno global que exige mayor responsabilidad social y ambien-tal. Este artículo tiene como objetivo analizar la literatura existente sobre los indicadores de sos-tenibilidad utilizados por las empresas ecuatorianas, evaluando su efectividad en la creación de valor financiero y su impacto en el desempeño social. Se realizó una investigación de revisión teórica, donde se recopiló y analizó información de diversas fuentes académicas para identificar tendencias y vacíos en la investigación sobre sostenibilidad en el contexto ecuatoriano. Los resul-tados indican que, aunque la adopción de indicadores de sostenibilidad ha aumentado, su efecti-vidad varía significativamente entre sectores y tamaños de empresas. Además, se encontró que la falta de estandarización en la medición y reporte de estos indicadores limita su comparabilidad y utilidad. En conclusión, esta investigación resalta la necesidad de un marco más robusto para la implementación de indicadores de sostenibilidad, sugiriendo que un enfoque más inclusivo po-dría mejorar su efectividad y contribuir a la creación de valor tanto financiero como social en las empresas ecuatorianas.
Los Bienes Humanos Básicos en la Filosofía Jurídica de John Finnis y sus Proyecciones sobre la Interpretación de los Derechos Humanos
Authors: Jaramillo-Coronel Paola
Published: December 2024

La filosofía jurídica de John Finnis, centrada en la teoría de los bienes humanos básicos, ofrece una perspectiva fundamental para el análisis de los derechos humanos. Estos bienes, intrínsecos y universales, como la vida, el conocimiento y la sociabilidad, constituyen el núcleo ético y jurídico para garantizar el florecimiento humano. Este estudio analiza la relevancia de dichos bienes en sistemas jurídicos diversos, destacando tensiones entre principios universales y contextos particulares, con énfasis en el caso ecuatoriano. Además, se evalúan aportes teóricos y prácticos de esta teoría en casos emblemáticos de la Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos, como Gelman vs. Uruguay y Pueblo Saramaka vs. Surinam. La investigación concluye que los bienes humanos básicos no solo sustentan la dignidad y justicia, sino que son esenciales para superar las limitaciones éticas y normativas de los sistemas legales contemporáneos.
La Vulneración de Garantías en la Remuneración de los Contratos Laborales en el Fútbol Ecuatoriano
Authors: Dotti-Battel Martin , Díaz-Poveda Jaime
Published: December 2024

El Convenio Nro. 95 de la Organización Internacional del Trabajo (OIT) sobre la Protección del Salario (1949) establece un conjunto de garantías que resguardan la remuneración. Este estudio analiza tres de dichas garantías en el contexto de los contratos laborales suscritos por futbolistas profesionales en el fútbol ecuatoriano: igualdad, oportunidad e integridad.La vulneración de estas garantías constituye un problema jurídico clasificado como dispersión normativa, caracterizado por la coexistencia de múltiples criterios, mandatos y reglas provenientes de diversas fuentes, incluidas leyes, reglamentos, tratados internacionales y sentencias judiciales. Esta diversidad genera incertidumbre jurídica y vacía de contenido la institución de la remuneración, afectando su correcta interpretación y aplicación.Para abordar este problema, se propone una nueva Ley del Futbolista Profesional que asegure la protección y efectividad de las garantías mencionadas, cumpliendo su función de tutelar y garantizar el derecho a una remuneración justa y equitativa.El presente artículo replica la investigación realizada por Dotti Battel y Díaz Poveda (2024), titulada: La vulneración de garantías en la remuneración de los contratos laborales en el fútbol ecuatoriano.
Os benefícios do exercício físico na funcionalidade de pessoas com lesão da medula espinhal: Uma revisão narrativa
Authors: Venancio Sebastião Marleson de Souza , Soares Henrique Luís Cintra , Viana Joaquim Albuquerque , Boaventura Alessandra Bárbara César de Freitas
Published: December 2024

A prática de exercícios físicos pode contribuir significativamente para a melhoria da funcionalidade, da autoeficácia, do processo de recuperação, da independência e da socialização das pessoas, além de ser um recurso essencial no combate ao sedentarismo e às comorbidades associadas. Nesse contexto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo realizar um levantamento bibliográfico sobre o impacto do exercício físico na funcionalidade de indivíduos com Lesão Medular Espinhal (LME). Trata-se de uma revisão revisão narrativa da literatura, conduzida com base nos critérios PRISMA. Foram consultadas as bases de dados Cochrane, PubMed, Scielo e Pedro, utilizando os descritores: Exercício Físico, Medula Espinal, Coluna Vertebral e Desempenho Físico Funcional em língua portuguesa e suas respectivas traduções para o inglês. Inicialmente, foram identificados 351 artigos, dos quais 8 atenderam aos critérios de inclusão e com apresentaram a revisão. A amostra examinada englobou 756 participantes, com lesões completas e incompletas, tetraplégicos e paraplégicos. Os resultados evidenciam que a manutenção de uma rotina ativa promove o aumento da autoeficácia no exercício, maior participação social, engajamento e satisfação, além de melhorias no desempenho físico e funcional. Concluímos que o exercício físico não apenas contribui para a manutenção de um estado de saúde mais robusto e para a prevenção de doenças crônicas, mas também desempenha um papel fundamental na melhoria das funções físicas, mentais e sociais, resultando em melhor qualidade de vida e maior satisfação pessoal para indivíduos com LME.
Perbandingan Makrostrukture Hasil Cor dengan Variasi Komposisi Pasir Cetak
Authors: Tsamroh Dewi Izzatus , Yazirin Cepi , Sasongko Muhammad Ilman Nur
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis perbandingan makrostruktur hasil cor dengan variasi komposisi pasir cetak. Pasir cetak memegang peran penting dalam proses pengecoran logam, karena sifatnya memengaruhi kualitas produk cor yang dihasilkan. Variasi komposisi pasir cetak, seperti persentase pasir silika, binder, dan air, diuji untuk mengamati pengaruhnya terhadap struktur makro hasil cor, termasuk cacat permukaan, kekerasan, dan homogenitas. Proses pengecoran dilakukan menggunakan metode sand casting dengan bahan logam tertentu, serta parameter proses yang terstandarisasi. Hasil pengamatan menunjukkan bahwa variasi komposisi pasir cetak memberikan dampak signifikan terhadap kualitas permukaan dan struktur internal hasil cor. Komposisi pasir cetak yang optimal mampu menghasilkan struktur makro yang lebih seragam, minim cacat, dan sesuai dengan standar kualitas industri. Penelitian ini diharapkan dapat memberikan kontribusi dalam meningkatkan efisiensi dan kualitas proses pengecoran di industri manufaktur.
Justification of the boundary conditions for the graphite powder heating model in the exhaust gas pipe of the T-64B tank power plant
Authors: Tansiura Ihor , Korytchenko Kostyantyn , Stakhovsky Oleg , Zadorozhnyi Andriy
Published: December 2024

The method of improving the thermal smoke apparatus is disclosed, which consists in the introduction of graphite powder into the bypass gas ducts of the power plant of the T-64 tank, followed by the release of an aerosol cloud from the power plant of the tank. in expanding the spectrum of the masking action of the aerosol curtain, which is created by the thermal smoke apparatus of the T-64B tank by introducing, in addition to diesel fuel, intumescing  graphite into the flow of hot exhaust gases of the tank's power plant. At the same time, the composition of the aerosol curtain formed from diesel fuel is mainly intended for masking in the visible range of radiation, and the composition of the aerosol curtain formed from graphite provides, mainly, masking in the infrared range of radiation. In the case of simultaneous feeding of diesel fuel and graphite, the conditions of graphite swelling are worsened, because the impact of diesel fuel droplets on the graphite particles will lead to a decrease in the heating rate of the graphite. At a slow heating rate of graphite, the swelling coefficient sharply decreases, which sharply worsens the properties of the aerosol veil in terms of volatility. Therefore, the improvement consists in alternate pulse-periodic injection of hot exhaust gases of the power plant of the graphite tank and diesel fuel into the flow.
The direction of improving the thermal smoke apparatus of the T-64B tank by introducing, in addition to diesel fuel, expandable graphite into the flow of hot exhaust gases of the tank's power plant to expand the spectrum of the masking effect of the aerosol curtain is proposed. The improvement consists in alternate pulse-periodic introduction of hot exhaust gases of the power plant of the graphite tank and diesel fuel into the flow.
The boundary conditions for the graphite powder heating model in the exhaust gas path of the power plant of the T-64B tank are substantiated. The geometric profile of the channel through which the exhaust gases of the engine power plant flow, the temperature of the gas duct walls, the mass flow rate, the thermodynamic parameters and the chemical composition of the tank exhaust gases, the mass flow rate and the size of the injected graphite particles, the thermodynamic parameters of the gas at the outlet of the gas duct are determined. In the calculations, the mass flow of exhaust gases was assumed to be 1.72 kg/s with the mass fraction of CO2/H2O/N2/O2 components equal to 4:2:77:17. The mass consumption of graphite was equal to 2 kg/s with the particle size of powder graphite 5 μm and 50 μm. The temperature of the walls of the gas duct was assumed to be constant and equal to 100 °C.
1929-1980 yılları arası kozmetik reklamlarında bilim ve teknoloji söylemi üzerinden inşa edilen kadınlık temsilleri: Akşam Gazetesi örneği
Authors: Tunçer Fatma
Published: December 2024

Bu makale, 1929-1980 yılları arasında Akşam Gazetesi’nde yayımlanan kozmetik ürünleri reklamlarına yer vermektedir. Modernliğe atıfta bulunan ve bilim ile teknoloji söylemi üzerinden gençlik ve güzellik temalarını işe koşan kozmetik reklamları aracılığıyla, toplumsal cinsiyet ilişkilerinin nasıl inşa edildiğini ve yeniden üretildiğini ortaya koymak, çalışmanın temel sorunsalını oluşturmaktadır. Reklam metinlerindeki bilim ve teknoloji dilinin işaret ettiği olası anlamlardan yola çıkan bu çalışmada, “kadınlık temsilleri”; gençlik, güzellik, doğa, kültür, beden, akıl, ırkçılık ve teknoloji ile ilgili literatürle bağlantılı olarak tartışmaya açılacaktır. Her tarihsel dönemde, toplumdaki normları ve kültürel değerleri yansıtan reklamlar, birtakım ideolojilerin aktarılmasında ve anlamın üretilmesinde önemli rol oynamakla beraber, özellikle toplumsal cinsiyet ilişkilerine dair toplumda kabul gören kalıpların yaratılmasında ve yeniden inşa edilmesinde önemli bir işleve sahiptir. Bu bağlamda, ait olduğu dönemin geçerli toplumsal değerlerinin, inançlarının ve teknolojisinin izlerini taşıyan reklam metinlerinin kadınlara seslenme biçimleri yoluyla nasıl bir kadın temsili sunduğu ve nasıl bir erillik türünü içinde barındırdığı gösterilmeye çalışılacaktır. 2019-2020 yılları arasında Ankara Milli Kütüphane’ de yürütülmüş olan ve arşiv taraması çalışmalarından elde edilen reklam metinleri, eleştirel söylem analizine tabii tutulmuş olup; bu yaklaşımın, kozmetik reklamlarının toplumsal cinsiyet normlarını ve ideolojik yapıları nasıl yansıttığını ve yeniden ürettiğini anlamak açısından önemli bir katkı sağlayacağı düşünülmektedir.
STUDY OF TOURIST SATISFACTION AT BUSAN’S TEMPLES: A QUANTITATIVE TEXT MINING APPROACH
Authors: Varren Christian Lim  , Narariya Dita Handani
Published: December 2024

This study leverages big data analytics to provide a comprehensive analysis of tourist satisfaction at temples in Busan through the examination of online reviews. Utilizing quantitative textual analysis, including frequency analysis, co-occurrence network analysis, and cluster analysis, the research identifies both positive and negative aspects of the temple tourist experience. While visitors frequently highlight the beauty, ambiance, and convenience of temple visits, challenges such as accessibility issues and admission pricing also emerge. This dual perspective offers a balanced view of the tourist experience. The study is notable for its application of advanced text mining tools to a significant dataset, setting it apart from previous research on temple tourism in Busan. The findings underscore the importance of maintaining the temples’ aesthetic appeal and accessibility while addressing tourists' concerns to enhance overall satisfaction. These insights are crucial for temple management and stakeholders in the religious tourism sector, providing a foundation for strategic improvements and a deeper understanding of visitor needs and expectations.
FINANCIAL ECONOMIC ANTECEDENTS OF MALAYSIAN CORPORATE SPIN-OFFS-A FUZZY-SET QUALITY COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: Teik-Meng Yoon  , Teik-Wei Yoon  , Chung-Sin Yoon
Published: December 2024

What are the financial and economic antecedents of Corporate Spin-Offs (CSOs) in the emerging market of Malaysia? We identified and analysed the various combinations of theorised causal conditions as financial and economic antecedents preceding 40 corporate spin-offs on the Bursa Malaysia stock exchange from 1999 to 2022. The Methodology, fuzzy-set Quality Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) approach was employed to evaluate Revenue Growth, TobinQ, Focus, Gearing, and PE Ratio. We found the effects of these variables interactive and asymmetric, which Standard Regression Analysis will likely not capture their complexity. Necessity and Sufficiency Review applied, further substantiated the validity of the Casual Claims showing evidence of three different combinations of variables that motivate CSO strategies, and two compelling combinations of variables that cause companies to abstain from CSOs. Adding literature to CSOs studies through theoretical predictability, the results provide novel actionable insights to investors, business analysts, policy regulators, and researchers.
UNRAVELING IMPULSE PURCHASE PATTERNS: INSIGHTS FROM CONVENIENCE STORES IN INDONESIA
Authors: Keni Kaniawati
Published: December 2024

Competitive shops have concentrated on impulse purchases to boost sales. Previous study concentrated on malls, ignoring convenience stores. This study aims to explore impulsive buying processes and influencing factors, emphasizing endogenous, individual, and situational factors. By understanding these relationships, retail companies can enhance consumer impulsive buying behavior. Data from 200 convenience store consumers were analyzed using LISREL 11 and SPSS 25. Results indicate that the primary driver of impulsive buying is a natural compulsion to act on impulse, with additional influences from emotional states, financial capacity, shopping enjoyment, and an individual’s impulsive tendencies. In-store browsing was found to have no impact on impulsive purchases. The study underscores the importance of situational, individual, and endogenous factors in driving impulse purchases in convenience stores, filling a significant research gap.
FOREIGN EXCHANGE RISK AND BANK PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM MENA BANKS
Authors: Amer N. Bani Yousef  , Roshaiza Taha  , Siti Nurain Muhmad  , Ahmad Firdhauz Zainul Abidin
Published: December 2024

We provide evidence on the inverse association between foreign exchange risk and the financial performance of banks in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The analysis is based on data collected from 135 banks from 14 countries over the period from 2015 to 2019. The results reveal a negative correlation between foreign exchange (FOREX or FX) risk and both bank performance measures considered. This suggests that banks with higher exposure to risk tend to exhibit lower performance in the MENA region. The study recommends that banks should regularly assess and project their foreign exchange exposure to minimise the associated foreign exchange risks. Furthermore, the findings underscore the importance of establishing appropriate frameworks and policies for prompt reporting and recording of foreign exchange losses. We highlight the importance of bank management to focus on developing effective financial instruments and techniques to hedge against foreign exchange risk, particularly in relation to profit and loss of banks in the MENA region. Ultimately, these measures will contribute to enhancing the financial performance of banks operating in the MENA region. In addition, results suggest that monetary policy should be primarily considered in supervising banks that are reliant on foreign funding for risk hedging.
MODELLING THE SUSTAINABLE CHOICES: THE INFLUENCE OF LABELS AND ATTITUDES ON CONSUMER PURCHASE INTENTIONS OF ORGANIC FOOD
Authors: Muhammad Safuan Abdul Latip  , Azlina Samsudin  , Malisa Sahila Abdul Manap  , Mohd Hazrin Iman Noorkhizan
Published: December 2024

Examining the influence of labelling on organic food purchase intention is essential, as labelling plays a critical role in shaping consumer perceptions and influencing purchasing decisions. This study specifically investigates the effect of labelling on organic food packaging and its influence on purchase intention. To achieve this, a non-contrived, cross-sectional correlational study was conducted, yielding 415 valid responses. The findings indicate that personal attitudes strongly influence purchase intention. Satisfaction with existing labelling positively impacts both personal attitudes and purchase intention, while a desire for more labelling negatively affects personal attitudes and purchase intention. Additionally, personal attitude mediates the relationship between satisfaction with labelling, the desire for more labelling, and purchase intention. These results provide valuable insights for marketers, organic food retailers, and producers to refine labelling strategies and develop more effective marketing communication plans to better influence consumer behaviour toward organic food products.
STABILITY IN CHAOS: IMPACT OF MONETARY, FISCAL, AND FIRM CHARACTERISTICS ON INVESTOR SENTIMENT IN ASIAN EMERGING MARKETS
Authors: Ooi Kok Loang  , Sevenpri Candra  , Naveenan R. V.
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the impact of firm characteristics, monetary policies, and fiscal policies on investor sentiment, specifically focusing on market volatility and trading volume in six Asian emerging markets during the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. Using panel data regression on a sample of 5,619 firms between 2015 and 2023, this study analyses the distinct roles of firm-specific factors and macroeconomic policies in shaping market behaviour during periods of economic instability. The findings reveal that firm characteristics such as capital structure and payout policies consistently drive both volatility and trading volume. Monetary policies, particularly interest rates and money supply, showed heightened significance during the pandemic, while fiscal policies, though largely insignificant pre-pandemic, became more relevant during the crisis. The study's results provide critical insights for policymakers and investors on the dynamic interplay between firm-level and macroeconomic factors during crisis periods, emphasising the need for coordinated policy responses.
SHELF SPACE ALLOCATION PROBLEM (SSAP) IN THE RETAIL INDUSTRY: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Faizatulhaida Md Isa  , Wan Nor Munirah Ariffin  , Muhammad Shahar Jusoh
Published: December 2024

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the Shelf Space Allocation Problem (SSAP) in the context of the evolving retail industry. The significance of this problem lies in its impact on consumer behavior, sales revenue, and overall shop profitability, with a particular focus on enhancing store performance through the optimization of shelf item placement. This review systematically integrates prior research by conducting a rigorous analysis of different approaches to SSAP, including mathematical models, heuristic strategies, and data-driven procedures. This study aims to synthesize key findings, identify knowledge gaps, and propose avenues for future research by compiling and evaluating several methodologies. This evaluation aims to acquire a thorough understanding of the various attributes of SSAP and their implications for retail operations. The primary data analysis examined a thorough selection of articles obtained through advanced search techniques on the Scopus and Mendeley databases. A total of 25 articles were included in the analysis. This article aims to provide a valuable resource for improving decision-making processes in the allocation of retail shelf space. It achieves this by compiling information on the main factors, challenges, and optimization techniques related to SSAP. The article's results offer valuable insights for supply chain management professionals and retailers. The proposition suggests that power dynamics within the supply chain influence the allocation of display space costs between suppliers and retailers. This article successfully identified optimal solutions across ten distinct scenarios and achieved an average profit ratio of over 99% by implementing various effective methodologies to address intricate optimization issues. Ultimately, this article contributes to enhancing retail performance, customer satisfaction, and strategic planning in the dynamic retail industry. This research highlights the significance of implementing adaptive and context-aware tactics to accommodate changing consumer preferences and market dynamics. Accordingly, it can enhance the effectiveness of shelf space allocation strategies and promote a competitive edge within the retail industry.
Связь технологии информационного моделирования и кадастрового учета при работе с объектами капитального строительства
Authors: Несипбаев Адиль Сагынбекович , Москвин Виктор Николаевич
Published: December 2024

Работа посвящена установлению связи и взаимодействия между процессом информационного моделирования объекта капитального строительства (проектирование, строительство и последующая эксплуатация) и решением задач кадастрового учета, а также обратной связи – предоставления кадастровой информации для информационного моделирования на инвестиционном строительном проекте или при проектных изменениях эксплуатируемого объекта. Анализируется и описывается организация такого взаимодействия, вытекающая из современного понимания технологии информационного моделирования (ТИМ) и действующих в России нормативных документов, которая призвана помочь исполнителям инвестиционного строительного проекта с использованием ТИМ обмениваться данными с Федеральной государственной информационной системой Единого государственного реестра недвижимости. Для решения задач такого взаимодействия впервые вводится понятие «кадастрового контейнера» для информационной модели объекта капитального строительства, в котором аккумулируется вся кадастровая информация об объекте. Такой подход означает, что теперь в нормативно-технических документах по связи ТИМ и кадастрового учета надо фокусироваться на требованиях к кадастровому контейнеру, а не ко всей модели, что облегчает унификацию процесса информационного моделирования и сбора кадастровой информации по объектам капитального строительства.
Разработка двухдиапазонных инфракрасных объективов с дискретной сменой фокусного расстояния
Authors: Шмелев Евгений Владимирович , Хацевич Татьяна Николаевна
Published: December 2024

Разработка объективов с конкурентными характеристиками представляется актуальной задачей для расширения номенклатуры отечественной элементной базы оптико-электронных приборов и комплексов. Развитие технологий микроэлектроники в производстве двухдиапазонных инфракрасных приемников излучений требует создания новой группы инфракрасных двухдиапазонных объективов. Основная проблема статьи связана с необходимостью разработки таких объективов. Целью статьи является представить результаты моделирования хроматизма положения в двухдиапазонным объективе с дискретной сменой фокусного расстояния, используя методы геометрической оптики, теории хроматизма и компьютерного проектирования оптических систем. Предлагается схемное решение двухдиапазонного MWIR/LWIR объектива с дискретной сменой фокусного расстояния, для которого создана математическая модель, описывающая хроматизм положения объектива в каждом положении подвижного компонента схемы и для двух диапазонов спектра. На основе анализа математической модели найдены решения, содержащие наборы материалов, оптические силы входящих в стартовую систему линз и расстояния между компонентами. Методами численного компьютерного моделирования показано, что найденные решения могут служить стартовыми системами для разработки двухдиапазонных объективов, обеспечивающих стабильное положение плоскости изображений в диапазонах 3–5 и 8–12 мкм и двухступенчатую смену фокусного расстояния, ориентированных на сопряжение с неохлаждаемыми двухдиапазонными приемниками излучений. Результаты иллюстрируются расчетом двухдиапазонного объектива с фокусным расстоянием 100/40 мм и относительным отверстием 1 : 1,2.
Разработка методики аэрокосмического мониторинга нефтяных загрязнений на основе интеграции данных дистанционного зондирования Земли (на примере акватории азербайджанского сектора Каспийского моря)
Authors: Гулиев Аловсат Шура оглы , Хлебникова Татьяна Александровна , Каленицкий Анатолий Иванович
Published: December 2024

Для устойчивого развития прибрежной территории Каспийского моря и защиты окружающей среды этого региона актуальны исследования по космическому мониторингу. В статье приведены результаты разработки методики аэрокосмического мониторинга нефтяных загрязнений шельфовой зоны азербайджанского сектора Каспийского моря на основе интеграции данных дистанционного зондирования Земли разных съемочных систем. Повышение достоверности определения границ зон нефтяных загрязнений осуществляется за счет устранения неоднородности и немонотонности спектрального фона изображений. Это достигается при использовании многозональных оптических и радиолокационных изображений, полученных разными съемочными системами, интеграции нескольких наборов данных, глубоком обучении, а также реализации такого подхода на облачной платформе. Результаты исследований могут быть использованы при обработке материалов космических съемок для поиска потенциально уязвимых районов шельфовой зоны Каспийского моря и в других районах шельфовых зон мирового океана.
Beneficial effects of ultrafine bubble shower on a mouse model of atopic dermatitis
Authors: Matsumoto Ayaki , Imanishi Hisayoshi , Yamanaka-Takaichi Mika , Hirae Masateru , Tsuruta Daisuke , Nakai Kozo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common and relapsing skin disease characterized by skin barrier dysfunction, inflammation, and chronic pruritus. Both cutaneous barrier dysfunction and immune dysregulation are critical etiologies of the pathology of AD. Although various anti-inflammatory pharmacological agents, including cytokine inhibitors and signaling pathway blockers, have been developed recently, keeping the skin clean is of utmost importance in maintaining physiological cutaneous barrier function and avoiding an AD flare. Ultrafine bubbles (UFBs) are less than 1 μm in diameter and usually used to clean medical equipment. A UFB shower is expected to keep skin clean with attention to the temperature and strength of the shower.

Methods

We examined the effects of a UFB shower on two mouse models of AD: Dermatophagoides farinae body (Dfb)- induced AD in NC/Nga mice and interleukin (IL)-33 transgenic (tg) mice. Each model comprised three groups: UFB shower-treated, normal shower-treated, and untreated. We evaluated the mice using a dermatitis score, scratching counts, histology, and the expression of inflammatory cytokines and skin barrier-related proteins.

Results

In the Dfb-induced AD mouse model, clinical features improved markedly in the UFB shower-treated mice compared to other groups. IL-4 and IL-13 levels decreased in the skin of normal and UFB shower-treated mice. In addition, in the skin of UFB shower-treated mice, the expression levels of skin barrier-related proteins were increased compared to normal showertreated mice. However, we found no significant differences in IL33tg mice.

Discussion

These results suggest that UFB shower can recover the skin barrier function and improve skin inflammation, especially in conditions such as extrinsic AD.
Optimization Design for Support Points of the Body-Mounted Solar Panel
Authors: Liu Qingwu , Yu Jisong , Wang Zhenjia , Cheng Hao , Chen Shanbo , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2024

Body-mounted solar panels are extensively utilized in satellite construction due to their simple structure and robust vibration resistance. The quantity and arrangement of support points on the body-mounted solar panel significantly affect its natural frequency. Thus, the design of these support points is a crucial aspect of the design process for body-mounted solar panels. This study presents a method for determining the support points of body-mounted solar panels, enabling rapid and precise identification of the quantity and positioning of these points based on the stated natural frequency in the design. First, a new algorithm is proposed, based on the finite element method, to optimize the positioning of support points on the body-mounted solar panel without the need for remeshing. Utilizing this algorithm, the distinct impacts of support point positioning and stiffness on the natural frequency of the solar panel are investigated, and the practical principles are proposed for quickly and accurately identifying the optimal locations of support points to maximize the natural frequency of the solar panel, given a predetermined number of support points. Subsequently, based on Courant–Fischer’s theorem, a method to ascertain the least quantity of support points through two modal analyses is presented. By integrating the aforementioned principles and method, a two-step procedure for identifying the quantity and positioning of support points is developed. Ultimately, the proposed two-step procedure is implemented in the design of the solar panel of the Jilin-1XXX satellite. The modal test reveals that the natural frequency of the solar panel surpasses the design index criteria, hence validating the efficacy and feasibility of the optimal design technique for the support points of the body-mounted solar panel presented in this study.
The Use of Soybean–Corn Strip Compound Planting Implements in the Yellow River Basin of China for Intercropping Patterns in Areas of Similar Dimensions
Authors: Fan Qi , Gao Nan , Zhao Yonglai , Zhang Yong , Liu Xiaoyu , Ding Yaqing , Niu Wenxue , Wang Lihe , Feng Ruilong
Published: December 2024

The soybean and corn strip cropping pattern is widely promoted globally, but at present, the degree of mechanization of this planting mode is insufficient, and the development of machinery is slow. In this regard, through a review of the literature and a field sowing test, we briefly describe the current situation of soybean and corn strip sowing machinery in the Yellow River basin, analyze the existing problems in mechanized planting, and give suggestions for improvement, aiming to provide a reference for the research and development of machinery.
Relationships Among Growth, Carcass Characteristics, and Myf5 Myf6, MyoD, and MyoG Genes Expression Level in Saanen Male Kids with Varying Slaughter Weights
Authors: Şen Uğur , Gökçek Dilek , Yılmaz Ömer Faruk , Yüksel Hüseyin Mert , Önder Hasan , Şirin Emre , Bozkurt Sibel , Yetişgin Sezen Ocak , Yücel Ceyhun , Omarova Karlygash , Tyasi Thobela Louis
Published: December 2024

The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between the MRF gene family members and slaughter characteristics in Saanen kids with varying slaughter weights. Twenty male kids of the Turkish Saanen breed were individually fattened for 60 days after weaning under an intensive management system. The kids were divided into two groups: low slaughter weight (L; n = 11; ≤29 kg) and high slaughter weight (H; n = 13; >29) at the end of the fattening. After slaughter, muscle samples from Longissimus-dorsi (LD) and Semitendinosus (ST) muscles were obtained. Carcass characteristics were higher in H than in L kids (p < 0.05). Myogenic Factor 5 gene expression level in the LD muscle of H kids was higher (p < 0.05) than that of L kids. A similar trend was observed regarding Myogenic Factor 6 and Myoblast Determination Factor gene expression levels in the LD muscle (p < 0.05). Also, the Myogenin gene expression level of H kids was higher than that of L kids in both muscles (p < 0.05). There were positive correlations among the slaughter weight, carcass characteristics, and some MRF gene expression levels in both muscles (p < 0.05) that the higher gene expression increases the weight and affects the carcass characteristics. The study results suggest that the difference in slaughter weight at the end of fattening in Saanen kids may be due to the expression level of myogenic regulatory factor (MRF) genes. Fattening performance and MRF genes may have a positive correlation.
Multi-Objective Optimization of the Layout of Tall Building Sites in Dense Urban Configurations for Improved Sustainability Outcomes
Authors: Mosey Grant , Deal Brian
Published: December 2024

Multi-objective evolutionary algorithms have long been used by architects to find objective solutions to complex building problems involving trade-offs implicit in sustainable building design. At a larger scale, urban designers have created a variety of tools to improve sustainability in urban-and-larger scale design. However, to date, fewer studies have focused on improving sustainability outcomes at the “in between” scale of the neighborhood and urban site. Existing scholarship on optimization at this scale has tended to take a narrow view of sustainability. We seek to expand the implementation of multi-objective evolutionary algorithms to this sometimes overlooked scale while taking a broad view of sustainability which includes social, environmental, and economic design factors. In doing so, we argue this optimization method is uniquely well suited to help designers balance the sometimes competing demands of multiple axes of sustainability which are applicable to design at this larger-than-building scale. In demonstrating the application of such an algorithm to a hypothetical problem in Chicago, we find the method offers a promising way of narrowing potential design solutions. Finally, we discuss the suitability of the solutions generated, the virtues and shortcomings of the method, and offer areas for future study.
Exploiting Spatiotemporal Redundancy Using Octree Decomposition to Enhance the Performance of Video Steganography
Authors: Baziyad Mohammed , Rabie Tamer , Kamel Ibrahim
Published: December 2024

Leveraging data redundancy has long been recognized as an effective approach for concealing large amounts of secret data. In digital images, the 2D-pixel matrix inherently provides opportunities for redundancy, as each pixel is connected to its eight neighbors. Video segments, with their 3D structures, introduce an additional layer of redundancy known as temporal redundancy. Recent video steganography techniques have proposed utilizing this temporal redundancy for data concealment. This paper seeks to fully exploit the redundancy present in video segments by integrating both spatial and temporal redundancy through an Octree segmentation method. The video is divided into homogeneous, variable-sized 3D cubes to enhance redundancy in each region, thereby improving energy compaction in the 3D discrete cosine transform (3D-DCT) domain. Consequently, the hiding capacity is optimized because most of the signal’s energy is concentrated in a few significant 3D-DCT coefficients, leaving a substantial portion of insignificant coefficients. These insignificant coefficients can be replaced with secret data without significantly affecting the quality of the carrier signal.
Concentration and Potential Sources of Total Gaseous Mercury in a Concentrated Non-Ferrous Metals Smelting Area in Mengzi of China
Authors: Han Xinyu , Xie Yuqi , Su Haojie , Du Wei , Du Guixin , Deng Shihan , Shi Jianwu , Tian Senlin , Ning Ping , Xiang Feng , Xie Haitao
Published: December 2024

To investigate concentration and potential sources of total gaseous mercury (TGM) in a concentrated non-ferrous metals smelting area in southwest China, a high temporal resolution automatic mercury meter was used to measure TGM in the environment and the emissions from major sources of Mengzi city. The average concentration of TGM in urban air was 2.1 ± 3.5 ng·m−3 with a range of 0.1~61.1 ng·m−3 over the study period. The highest TGM concentration was in fall (3.3 ± 4.3 ng·m−3). The daytime TGM concentration (2.8 ± 3.5 ng·m−3) was significantly higher than that in the nighttime (1.6 ± 1.1 ng·m−3), which may be attributed to the increased emissions of mercury from the high volume of vehicle activity during the day. To discuss the contributions of local sources and long-range transport, eight pollution events were identified based on the ratio of ΔTGM/ΔCO (Carbon Monoxide), which can be found that local sources are a key contributor to the major TGM pollution events. Concentrations of TGM in flue gases from eight non-ferrous industrial sources were also measured in Mengzi, which were found that the highest TGM emission concentration was up to 4.6 mg·m−3. Simultaneously, the concentrations of TGM in ambient air around these industries and Xidu Tunnel were also detected, the concentrations were 1 to 4 times higher than that in the urban air sampling site. Based on the analysis of air mass and PSCF, when northwest wind happened, these emissions of industries and vehicles can be identified as the primary sources of TGM in urban air of Mengzi.
Investigating the Applicability of the Peak Density Thickness Parameter over the Equatorial Region
Authors: Shammat Mohamed O. , Reinisch Bodo W. , Galkin Ivan , Erickson Philip J. , Weitzen Jay A. , Rideout William C.
Published: December 2024

The Peak Density Thickness (PDT) refers to a vertical region in the ionosphere encompassing the F2 peak, where electron density is at its maximum, and extending upward—maintaining a constant density—for a fixed altitude beyond this peak. This study builds on the previously established PDT concept, initially explored at midlatitudes using data from Millstone Hill, by evaluating its applicability and effectiveness over equatorial latitudes using data from the Jicamarca Incoherent Scatter Radar (ISR) in Lima, Peru. A comprehensive analysis of electron density profiles measured by the Jicamarca ISR, spanning 1997 to 2020, was conducted using the Madrigal database to extract the PDT parameter for the F2 layer. Findings from the Jicamarca ISR indicate that the PDT parameter peaks around solar noon, aligning with observations from Millstone Hill. For selected case studies, the Vary-Chap topside model was employed to reconstruct the ionospheric profile above the F2 peak and PDT, demonstrating the model’s enhanced effectiveness when incorporating the PDT parameter over equatorial regions. This research confirms the presence of PDT in equatorial regions, consistent with its behavior at midlatitudes, and underscores the importance of PDT in refining predictive ionospheric models across different latitudes.
Universal and Automated Approaches for Optimising the Processing Order of Geometries in a CAM Tool for Redundant Galvanometer Scanner-Based Systems
Authors: Kurth Daniel , Reiff Colin , Jiang Yujiao , Verl Alexander
Published: December 2024

The combination of highly dynamic systems with a limited work envelope with a less dynamic system with a larger working envelope promises to combine the advantages of both systems while eliminating the disadvantages. For these systems, separation algorithms determine the trajectories based on the target geometries. However, arbitrary processing orders of these result in inefficient trajectories because successive geometries may be geometrically far apart. This causes the dynamic system to operate below its potential. Current planning tools do not optimise the processing order for such redundant systems. The aim is to design and implement a planning tool for the application of laser marking. The tool considers the processing order of the 2D geometries from a geometric point of view. The resulting sequenced path data can then be used by trajectory generation algorithms to make full use of the potential of redundant systems. The approach analyses literature on Travelling Salesman Problems (TSP), which is then transferred to the given application. A heuristic and a genetic algorithm are developed and integrated into a planning tool. The results show the heuristic algorithm being faster while still producing solutions whose total path length is similar to that of the genetic algorithm. Even though the solutions don’t meet any optimality standards, the presented automated approaches are superior to manual approaches and are to be seen as a starting point for further research.
Plant-Derived Anti-Cancer Therapeutics and Biopharmaceuticals
Authors: Hashim Ghyda Murad , Shahgolzari Mehdi , Hefferon Kathleen , Yavari Afagh , Venkataraman Srividhya
Published: December 2024

In spite of significant advancements in diagnosis and treatment, cancer remains one of the major threats to human health due to its ability to cause disease with high morbidity and mortality. A multifactorial and multitargeted approach is required towards intervention of the multitude of signaling pathways associated with carcinogenesis inclusive of angiogenesis and metastasis. In this context, plants provide an immense source of phytotherapeutics that show great promise as anticancer drugs. There is increasing epidemiological data indicating that diets rich in vegetables and fruits could decrease the risks of certain cancers. Several studies have proved that natural plant polyphenols, such as flavonoids, lignans, phenolic acids, alkaloids, phenylpropanoids, isoprenoids, terpenes, and stilbenes, could be used in anticancer prophylaxis and therapeutics by recruitment of mechanisms inclusive of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and modulation of several molecular events associated with carcinogenesis. The current review discusses the anticancer activities of principal phytochemicals with focus on signaling circuits towards targeted cancer prophylaxis and therapy. Also addressed are plant-derived anti-cancer vaccines, nanoparticles, monoclonal antibodies, and immunotherapies. This review article brings to light the importance of plants and plant-based platforms as invaluable, low-cost sources of anti-cancer molecules of particular applicability in resource-poor developing countries.
Neoplasms in the Nasal Cavity Identified and Tracked with an Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Nasal Endoscopic Diagnostic System
Authors: Xu Xiayue , Yun Boxiang , Zhao Yumin , Jin Ling , Zong Yanning , Yu Guanzhen , Zhao Chuanliang , Fan Kai , Zhang Xiaolin , Tan Shiwang , Zhang Zimu , Wang Yan , Li Qingli , Yu Shaoqing
Published: December 2024

Objective: We aim to construct an artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted nasal endoscopy diagnostic system capable of preliminary differentiation and identification of nasal neoplasia properties, as well as intraoperative tracking, providing an important basis for nasal endoscopic surgery. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 1050 video data of nasal endoscopic surgeries involving four types of nasal neoplasms. Using Deep Snake, U-Net, and Att-Res2-UNet, we developed a nasal neoplastic detection network based on endoscopic images. After deep learning, the optimal network was selected as the initialization model and trained to optimize the SiamMask online tracking algorithm. Results: The Att-Res2-UNet network demonstrated the highest accuracy and precision, with the most accurate recognition results. The overall accuracy of the model established by us achieved an overall accuracy similar to that of residents (0.9707 ± 0.00984), while slightly lower than that of rhinologists (0.9790 ± 0.00348). SiamMask’s segmentation range was consistent with rhinologists, with a 99% compliance rate and a neoplasm probability value ≥ 0.5. Conclusions: This study successfully established an AI-assisted nasal endoscopic diagnostic system that can preliminarily identify nasal neoplasms from endoscopic images and automatically track them in real time during surgery, enhancing the efficiency of endoscopic diagnosis and surgery.
The Brain Activation of Two Motor Imagery Strategies in a Mental Rotation Task
Authors: Wang Cancan , Yang Yuxuan , Sun Kewei , Wang Yifei , Wang Xiuchao , Liu Xufeng
Published: December 2024

Background: Motor imagery includes visual imagery and kinesthetic imagery, which are two strategies that exist for mental rotation and are currently widely studied. However, different mental rotation tests can lead to different strategic performances. There are also many research results where two different strategies appear simultaneously under the same task. Previous studies on the comparative brain mechanisms of kinesthetic imagery and visual imagery have not adopted consistent stimulus images or mature mental rotation paradigms, making it difficult to effectively compare these types of imagery. Methods: In this study, we utilized functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to investigate the brain activation of sixty-seven young right-handed participants with different strategy preferences during hand lateral judgment tasks (HLJT). Results: The results showed that the accuracy of the kinesthetic imagery group was significantly higher than that of the visual imagery group, and the reaction time of the kinesthetic imagery group was significantly shorter than that of the visual imagery group. The areas significantly activated in the kinesthetic imagery group were wider than those in the visual imagery group, including the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (BA9, 46), premotor cortex (BA6), supplementary motor area (SMA), primary motor cortex (BA4), and parietal cortex (BA7, 40). It is worth noting that the activation levels in the frontal eye fields (BA8), primary somatosensory cortex (BA1, 2, 3), primary motor cortex (BA4), and parietal cortex (BA40) of the kinesthetic imagery group were significantly higher than those in the visual imagery group. Conclusion: Therefore, we speculate that kinesthetic imagery has more advantages than visual imagery in the mental rotation of egocentric transformations.