bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Legal and Socio-Economic Challenges of E-Commerce in Uganda: Balancing Growth and Regulation
Authors: Aidonojie Paul Atagamen , Okuonghae Nosakhare , Najjuma Aisha , Ikpotokin Omobolanle Omolola , Obieshi Eregbuonye
Published: February 2025

Digital technology has reshaped various sectors of the world so that tasks are executed seamlessly within the shortest period through digital technology. It suffices to state that Uganda has also incorporated the same in enhancing virtually all sectors. For example, in recent times, buying, selling goods, and negotiating contracts are done majorly through digital technology. However, despite the prospect of e-commerce, some challenges may limit its viability in Uganda. In this regard, the study examines the legal and socio-economic issues concerning the adoption of digital commerce in Uganda. A hybrid method was used, and 304 questionnaires were distributed (through Google form) to respondents residing in Uganda. The data obtained were analysed using a descriptive and analytical approach. The study found that adopting e-commerce has greatly enhanced the commercial sector. However, despite the advantages of e-commerce, there are challenges, which include Data security and privacy, regulatory compliance, consumer protection from internet fraudsters and unfair trade practices, illiteracy of consumers, and poor and high cost of internet access. The study, therefore, concludes and recommends that e-commerce is a good innovation that could enhance and lead to further economic development in Uganda. In this regard, for smooth e-commerce operations in Uganda, there is a need for effective mechanisms in ensuring legal compliance and prosecution of anyone involved in data privacy breaches and internet fraudster. Furthermore, active and cost reduction of internet access could aid in enhancing the operation of e-commerce in Uganda. This research builds upon existing knowledge by discovering the legal and social-economic factors prohibiting the adoption of e-commerce in Uganda followed by specific recommendations and ensuring internet accessibility improvement in improving the country's digital economy.
Tax Regulation Challenges in the Digital Economy Era: Legal Analysis and Implications in Indonesia
Authors: Rizqiyanto Naufal , Rizqi M. , Afsa Fahmil Alfian Rizkia , Berrahlia Badreddine
Published: February 2025

The rapid growth of the digital economy has transformed global business landscapes, creating significant challenges for tax regulation in Indonesia. This study aims to identify the obstacles in regulating the digital economy, analyze the impact of legal uncertainty on taxpayer compliance, and evaluate how technological infrastructure limitations hinder effective tax enforcement. Applying normative legal methods and an exploratory approach, this research employs statute and case-based approaches, with data collected from primary legislation and secondary literature sources. The findings indicate that legal uncertainties regarding MSME identification in digital transactions, digital economy subjects, permanent establishment (PE) status, and tax collection mechanisms significantly reduce taxpayer compliance. Additionally, the limited technological infrastructure is the major obstacle to enforcing tax regulations effectively. This research contributes to emphasize the need of the clear legal frameworks and robust technological systems to address those challenges. In conclusion, to resolve the issues requires regulatory reforms to provide unambiguous guidelines for digital transactions, increased investments in technological infrastructure, and the development of comprehensive frameworks to enhance compliance and enforcement. The study recommends a strategic focus on harmonizing legal standards and technological advancements to support a sustainable tax ecosystem in the digital economy.
Los emprendedores de las industrias creativas y culturales y los procesos de toma de decisión
Authors: Neugovsen Gerardo
Published: February 2025

El artículo analiza los procesos de toma de decisión por parte de los emprendedores de las industrias culturales y creativas a partir de considerar el alto índice de mortandad registrado de las micro, pequeñas y medianas empresas, a pesar de la asignación de importantes recursos a apoyos y asistencia técnica para los emprendedores. Se propone como hipótesis que se debe focalizar en los procesos cognitivos y emocionales que inciden en al toma de decisiones estratégicas de los emprendedores en general. En este documento se aplica este análisis específicamente a los emprendedores de las industrias culturales y creativas, quienes deben enfrentar no sólo importantes niveles de incertidumbre debido a las características del sector, sino también a determinados sesgos cognitivos en relación al valor económico y productivo del campo cultural. Para ello se presenta un modelo de diagnóstico que integra las motivaciones para emprender, las estrategias implementadas por los emprendedores de este sector así como las competencias utilizadas para llevar adelante las estrategias, planteando que los procesos de toma de decisión son permanentes y se ven influidos por los elementos mencionados.
El Proceso Creativo de Walt Disney, Sus Orígenes y Producciones Hasta 1933
Authors: Benítez Rojas Raquel Victoria
Published: February 2025

El nombre de Walt Disney es sinónimo de animación. En este artículo, utilizando una metodología cualitativa, se analizará al hombre, los orígenes y primeros pasos en el mundo de la animación, desgranando el origen de su gran primera estrella animada Mickey Mouse y su filmografía hasta 1933. Es en el periodo de su infancia y adolescencia cuando el joven Disney recibirá la influencia que marcará su obra a posteriori: la religiosidad cristiana recibida por su padre, hombre rígido que imprimió en el joven autor valores que aún hoy en día se encuentran presentes en las producciones de la factoría norteamericana. El sentido del espectáculo que recibió de sus frecuentes representaciones teatrales en la casa de su amigo íntimo Walter Pfeiser o su impresión de las obras cinematográficas que visionó como adolescente, así como su gran pasión por el cómic y el dibujo marcaron sus primeros años de vida, creando la base de su obra y la de su compañía.
Indications of a Survival Benefit from Primary Tumor Treatment in Uveal Melanoma: Association Between initial AJCC Stage and Metastatic Survival
Authors: Yavuzyigitoglu Serdar , Sabazade Shiva , Gill Viktor , Brosens Erwin , Kiliç Emine , Stålhammar Gustav
Published: February 2025

In theory, a more advanced American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage at the time of primary tumor diagnosis could correlate with shorter survival in metastatic uveal melanoma. However, this association has only been evaluated in relatively small cohorts. To address this, we investigated the prognostic relationship between AJCC stage and survival in a large cohort of patients who died from metastatic uveal melanoma. Among 1491 real-world patients, a higher AJCC stage at the time of primary tumor diagnosis was significantly associated with shorter survival. This association persisted even when the analysis was restricted to 350 patients already at stage IV, where a higher AJCC stage at primary tumor diagnosis continued to correlate with shorter survival (Log-rank test for trend, P< 0.001 for both comparisons). The relationship remained significant in multivariate Cox regression models, which included patient age as a covariate and the number of hepatic metastases upon detection of metastatic disease as a time-varying covariate, as well as in a Markov multi-state model. These findings suggest that primary tumor treatment, by preventing the tumor from advancing to a higher AJCC stage, may confer a survival benefit by potentially reducing the aggressiveness and growth rate of subsequent metastases.
5 V-Class 35.3 mAh cm-2 All-Solid-State Li Batteries
Authors: Jung Yoon Seok , Son Jun Pyo , Park Juhyoun , Kim Hae-Yong , Kim Jae-Seung , Song Yong Bae , Kim Changhoon , Kim Donghyeok , Kim Jong Seok , Ko Sunho , Ahn Docheon , Kwon Gihan , Seo Dong-Hwa , Nam Kyung-Wan , Chae Keun Hwa , Du Yonghua , Wierzbicki Dominik
Published: February 2025

The advancement of battery technology has been impeded by the voltage constraints of electrolytes. Here, we present a high-energy all-solid-state battery (ASSB) design that achieves both a >5 V operation and an ultrahigh areal capacity of 35.3 mAh cm-2; these attributes were enabled by a new, highly conductive and ultrahigh voltage stable fluoride solid electrolyte (SE), LiCl–4Li2TiF6 (1.7 x 10-5 S cm-1 at 30 °C). This material provides over 100 times higher Li+ conductivity than Li2TiF6, attributable to the enlarged Li+ channels and increased Li+ concentration at the nanocrystallite interfaces, as proved by combined experimental and theoretical investigations. LiCl–4Li2TiF6 shields high-voltage spinel oxide cathodes, achieving excellent performance (e.g., 106 mAh g-1 at 2C and 30 °C with 75.2% retention after 500 cycles for LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4), sharply contrasting with the conventional LiNbO3 counterpart, which decomposes and fails to prevent detrimental interfacial degradation. The efficacy of LiCl–4Li2TiF6 is validated across various systems, including higher-voltage LiCoMnO4, cost-effective LiFe0.5Mn1.5O4, pouch-type LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4//Li ASSBs, operability down to 2.3 V with 258 mAh g-1, and 1.8 mm ultrathick electrodes. This newly proposed SE with over 5 V stability introduces a new design paradigm by revisiting the previously forbidden high-voltage cathodes for high-energy ASSBs.
Assessing the residual effects of the “defeated” tomato Mi-1.2 gene against a Meloidogyne enterolobii (guava race) population via comparative assays with contrasting near-isogenic lines
Authors: CUNHA Dwillian F. , PINTO Thávio J. B. , PINHEIRO Jadir B. , SILVA Giovani O. , RAFAEL Felipe S. , SANTOS Leandro A. , FONSECA Maria Esther N. , CARES Juvenil E. , BOITEUX Leonardo S.
Published: February 2025

Meloidogyne enterolobii represents a major threat to the global tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) production due to its ability to “break-down” the resistance conferred by the dominant Mi-1.2 gene. However, a subgroup of “defeated” resistance genes in various pathosystems exhibits residual effects characterized by an enduring interference in quantitative levels of disease expression induced by novel virulent pathogens. Thus far, residual effects of the “defeated” Mi-1.2 gene to M. enterolobii have not been properly investigated. Herein, two comparative assays using contrasting near-isogenic lines (NILs) for presence/absence of the Mi-1.2 locus were carried out using a guava race population of M. enterolobii. Seedlings of two pairs of contrasting NILs ‘Nemadoro’ (homozygous dominant; Mi-1.2/Mi-1.2) / ‘Rio Grande’ (homozygous recessive, mi-1.2/mi-1.2) and ‘Del Rey’ (Mi-1.2/Mi-1.2) / ‘Calipso’ (mi-1.2/mi-1.2) were inoculated with ≈ 2,000 M. enterolobii eggs. The homozygous dominant (Mi-1.2/Mi-1.2) NILs displayed values for the quantitative parameter NEGR (number of eggs + occasional J2 per gram of root tissue) similar or even superior to their corresponding recessive (mi-1.2/mi-1.2) NILs. A slight positive impact of the resistance gene in the reproduction factor (RF) value was observed only for one pair of contrasting NILs (‘Del Rey’ / ‘Calipso’), which was restricted to one bioassay. The employment of NILs in our bioassays allowed us to hypothesize that the Mi-1.2 gene, although extremely effective against populations of at least 13 Meloidogyne species, does not confer significant residual effects against M. enterolobii race from guava.
Deconstruction of a Memory Engram Reveals Distinct Ensembles Recruited at Learning
Authors: Pouget Clément , Morier Flora , Treiber Nadja , García Pablo Fernández , Mazza Nina , Zhang Run , Reeves Isaiah , Winston Stephen , Brimble Mark , Kim Christina , Vetere Gisella
Published: February 2025

How are associative memories formed? Which cells represent a memory, and when are they engaged? By visualizing and tagging cells based on their calcium influx with unparalleled temporal precision, we identified non-overlapping dorsal CA1 neuronal ensembles that are differentially active during associative fear memory acquisition. We dissected the acquisition experience into periods during which salient stimuli were presented or certain mouse behaviors occurred and found that cells associated with specific acquisition periods are sufficient alone to drive memory expression and contribute to fear engram formation. This study delineated the different identities of the cell ensembles active during learning, and revealed, for the first time, which ones form the core engram and are essential for memory formation and recall.
Climate change impacts on the accessibility of offshore structures
Authors: Bessonova Victoria , Casas-Prat Merce , Tapoglou Evdokia , York Katharine , Dorrell Robert
Published: February 2025

In the next 25 years an unprecedented number of new marine artificial structures,
over 75,000 offshore wind turbines alone, are planned to meet global net zero targets.
Structures are required to last for multiple decades in the hostile marine environment;
where the largest cost across their whole lifecycle is on operations and maintenance
dependent on accessibility in calm seas. However, the role of climate change
on accessibility, and thus operational cost, has not
been resolved. Here we provide the first study of future accessibility;
evaluated from global climate model driven wave modelling, using the high
emission scenario (RCP8.5). We found that climate change drives
significant regional variation in accessibility, with the northern hemisphere
benefiting from a 6% increase in operating windows whilst accessibility in parts of the
southern hemisphere is reduced by 6-9%. These findings will help offshore
developers and stakeholders incorporate adaptions to climate change as part of strategic planning practices.
Vision impairment is a risk factor for malnutrition in older long-term care residents.
Authors: Jyvakorpi Satu K , Soini Helena , Pitkala Kaisu H , Saarela Riitta KT , Muurinen Seija
Published: February 2025

Purpose To examine how vision is associated with nutritional status in long-term residentsMethods A random sample of 17 assisted-living facilities and nursing home including 2513 permanent long-term care residents (age ≥ 65 years) were examined by trained nurses about various health-related aspects. Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) long version and vision was estimated using a question from 15D-health-related quality of life questionnaire.Results 18% of the participants were characterised of having vision impairment. Vision impairment was an independent predictor of residents’ malnutrition (OR 1.62, 95% [1.22, 2.15], p < .001). Chewing problems (OR 2.78, 95% [2.18, 3.55], p < .001) and CDR memory item (OR 2.20, 95% [1.68, 2.87], p < 0.001) were also associated with malnutrition.Conclusion Vision impairment was associated with malnutrition, problems with oral health and poorer cognition, thus vision impairment should be considered as a risk factor for malnutrition in this vulnerable population.
A novel dominant RPE65-related retinopathy is caused by p.(E519K), a founder variant of Flemish origin
Authors: Vooren Eline Van , Broeck Filip Van den , Mahieu Quinten , Geens Eline , Heetvelde Mattias Van , De Bruyne Marieke , de Sompele Stijn Van , Uppal Sheetal , Poliakov Eugenia , Dhaenens Claire-Marie , Gregory-Evans Cheryl Y. , Hoefsloot Lies , Gonzalez Adriana Iglesias , Kohl Susanne , Zuleger Theresia , Demaret Tanguy ,   Dominant RPE65-E519K Consortium, Tuupanen Sari , Ruys Joke , Os Luc Van , Platteau Elise , Jacob Julie , Vermeer Sascha , Postelmans Laurence , Dahan Karin , Maystadt Isabelle , Rasquin Florence , Thiadens Alberta A.H.J. , Stephenson Kirk A.J. , Sheri Narin , Smirnov Vasily , MacDonald Ian M. , Gregory-Evans Kevin , Redmond T. Michael , De Zaeytijd Julie , Leroy Bart P. , Bauwens Miriam , De Baere Elfride
Published: February 2025

Background | Recessive RPE65-retinopathy is an inherited retinal disease (IRD) that is a well-known target for gene therapy. Dominant RPE65-retinopathy, however, due to the Irish founder variant p.(D477G), is very rare. Here, we present the discovery of a novel dominant RPE65-retinopathy caused by ultrarare variant c.1555G>A, p.(Glu519Lys), hereafter named p.(E519K).
Methods | In addition to genome (n=3), exome (n=28), or targeted sequencing (index: n=14; segregation: n=30) to identify the p.(E519K) variant, patients underwent extensive ophthalmological examinations. Haplotype phasing was based on long-read genome sequencing data in four individuals, combined with microsatellite analysis of six markers in all index cases. The p.(E519K) variant was functionally assessed using an enzymatic RPE65 assay, western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation, cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), minigene assays and protein modelling (AlphaFold).
Results | Using genome, exome, or targeted sequencing in Belgian IRD cases (discovery cohort, n=2,873) and interrogating genomic IRD databases from France, the Netherlands, Germany, United Kingdom, Scotland, Ireland, and Canada (replication cohort, n=18,798) we identified 83 monoallelic p.(E519K)-IRD cases of Flemish ancestry. Long-read sequencing-based haplotyping revealed a shared region of 464 kb, confirming a founder effect. p.(E519K) affects a highly conserved amino acid and lowers RPE65 enzymatic activity to ~56%, in line with reduced protein expression. While no increased interaction with wild type RPE65 or aberrant splicing could be demonstrated in vitro, protein modelling and CETSA supports a shift in protein stability. Segregation analysis revealed dominant inheritance with complete penetrance and phenotypic variability, hallmarked by a characteristic late-onset macula-predominant IRD with two main subtypes. The milder phenotype is characterized by subtle, diffuse mottling of the posterior pole, while the more severe phenotype manifests as a macular pattern dystrophy with chorioretinal atrophy as a hallmark.
Conclusions | The discovery of a dominant RPE65-IRD due to the ultrarare Flemish founder variant p.(E519K) reduces the diagnostic gap in dominant IRD and highlights a novel target for therapy.
Near-single-photon atto-watt detection at mid-infrared wavelengths by a room-temperature balanced heterodyne set-up
Authors: Palaferri Daniele , Mancini Lorenzo , Vecchi Chiara , Daga Leonardo , Ulpiani Pierfrancesco , Proietti Massimiliano , Liorni Carlo , Dispenza Massimiliano , Cappelli Francesco , De Natale Paolo , Borri Simone
Published: February 2025

Single photon detection is the underpinning technology for quantum communication and quantum sensing applications. At visible and near-infrared wavelengths, single-photon-detectors (SPDs) underwent a significant development in the past two decades, with the commercialization of SPADs and superconducting detectors. At longer wavelengths, in the mid-infrared range (4-11µm), given the reduced scattering and favourable transparent atmospheric windows, there is an interest in developing quantum earth-satellites-links and quantum imaging for noisy environments or large-distance telescopes. Still, SPD-level mid-infrared devices have been rarely reported in the state-of-the-art (superconductors, single-electron-transistors or avalanche-photodiodes) and, crucially, all operating at cryogenic temperatures. Here, we demonstrate a room-temperature detection system operating at 4.6µm-wavelength with a sensitivity-level of atto-watt optical power, corresponding to few tens of mid-infrared photons. This result was obtained by exploiting a pair of commercially available photodetectors within two balanced-heterodyne-detection setups: one involving a quantum-cascade-laser (QCL) and an acousto-optic-modulator (AOM) and the other one including two QCLs with mutual coherence ensured by a phase-lock-loop (PLL). Our work not only validates a viable method to detect ultra-low-intensity signals, but is also potentially scalable to the entire wavelength range already accessible by mature QCL technology, unfolding - for the first time - quantum applications at mid- and long-wave-infrared-radiation.
Characteristics and dynamics of microbial communities in Dermatophagoides farinae: Insights Across Developmental Stages
Authors: Fan Zhewei , Hong Yujie , Zhou Shuya , Zhang Huijie , Zhuo Mo , Yang Xinyan , Yang Yawen , Ling Min , Wang Ziyan , Yang Feng , Tao Xianglin , Sun Entao
Published: February 2025

Background
Dermatophagoides farinae causes human allergic diseases and contains a large number of microbes. The structure of the microbial community is an essential prerequisite for understanding the intricate symbiotic relationships between microbes and hosts. The characteristics and dynamics of symbiotic microbes at different developmental stages of D. farinae, however, are not well understood.
Methods
We performed high-throughput amplicon sequencing to investigate microbial community in D. farinae at different developmental stages.
Results
The results showed that microbial communities were diverse and dynamic during D. farinae development. Bacterial communities were generally richer than fungi in each developmental stage. The species richness and diversity of the bacterial community declined significantly from immature stages to adults. The highest species richness of the fungal community existed in nymphs. Eggs had the lowest fungal diversity. At 97% similarity, we assigned 40 phyla and 616 genera of bacteria and annotated 11 fungal phyla composed of 276 genera. The dominant bacterial and fungal phyla in all stages were Proteobacteria and Ascomycota, respectively. Staphylococcus was more abundant in eggs than in other stages, Bordetella, Pseudomonas, and Stenotrophomonas were dominant in both larvae and nymphs, and Burkholderia-Caballeronia-Paraburkholderia and Ralstonia were abundant in adults. Vibrionimonas was dominant in both eggs and adults. Aspergillus was the dominant fungal genus at all stages. Xeromyces was abundant in eggs, and Penicillium and Sarocladium were abundant in other stages. Correlation analysis showed the existence of strong and complex correlations in the dominant microbial genera, and most of these correlations were positive. The functional analysis showed that microbes participate in various life activities in D. farinae. Bacteria tend to have a higher functional abundance than fungi, such as substance metabolism. The functions of bacteria gradually enriched in adults. We observed similar fungal functional abundance in all stages.
Conclusion
this study has enriched our knowledge of the microbial communities associated with D. farinae and has provided clues for discovering microbes that play important functions in D. farinae.
Can early weaning in the previous lactation of beef cows affect the metabolism and postnatal development of female offspring?
Authors: Nishimura Thiago Kan , Carlis Matheus Sousa de Paula , Matos Ana Clara Degan , Feltrin Isabella Rio , Goulart Rodrigo Silva , Zamudio Germán Darío Ramírez , Silva Saulo Luz , Netto Arlindo Saran , Leme Paulo Roberto , Pugliesi Guilherme
Published: February 2025

We aimed to compare the effects of early (EW; 150 days) or conventional (CW; 240 days) weaning during early pregnancy on the postnatal metabolism, development, and productive performance of female calves born from secondiparous (SEC) and multiparous (MULT) cows. Fifty-five Nelore female calves were used: 25 from EW cows (10 SEC, 15 MULT) and 30 from CW cows (15 SEC, 15 MULT). From 90 to 150 days, the female calves received creep-feed (5g/kg of body weight [BW]). After weaning, female calves were maintained on pastures and received 10 g/kg of BW supplement until 16 months (mo). From 12 to 16 mo, heifers were evaluated every 28 ± 3 days for BW, body condition score (BCS), and average daily gain (ADG), calculated from weight measurements. Carcass traits (ribeye area [REA], backfat thickness [BFT], and rump fat thickness [RFT]) were assessed by ultrasound, and blood samples were collected for serum concentration of IGF-I, leptin, and plasma glucose. At 5 and 14 mo, a subgroup of 22 heifers (n = 10 for EW and 12 for CW) was selected for liver biopsy to evaluate the gene expression of IGF-I, IGFBP, and GHR. No interactions were observed between dam parity, weaning strategy, or time for BW, BCS, ADG, REA, serum concentration for IGF-I, leptin, and plasma concentration for glucose (P > 0.1). A significant time effect (P < 0.05) indicated increased BW, BCS, LMA, BFT, and RTF over time. Heifers from MULT cows were 2.67 kg heavier from 13 to 15 mo than heifers from SEC cows (P = 0.04). Dam parity affected BCS (P = 0.01); heifers from MULT cows had greater BCS than SEC group. For carcass traits, a dam parity by weaning interaction (P = 0.04) in RTF indicated that EW-SEC heifers presented a lower fat deposition than EW-MULT and CW heifers. IGF-I gene expression was 1.4-fold greater (P = 0.01) at 5 mo than at 14 mo. For IGFBP gene expression, a dam parity × time interaction was observed (P = 0.05), with heifers from MULT cows showing a 1.8-fold greater expression at 14 mo than at 5 mo. In conclusion, the early weaning applied to dams in the previous lactation did not affect the subsequent offspring's productive performance or metabolic parameters, except for a reduction in rump fat deposition in heifers from SEC cows that were early weaned.
Networks and Epidemics: Designing network-based intervention strategies from edge-based infection probability
Authors: Halász Veronika , Rocklöv Joacim
Published: February 2025

Epidemics underscore the critical role of human contact networks in shaping the spread of infectious diseases. The transmission varies depending on a range of factors, including the virus characteristics, the type and duration of contact, and whether it occurs indoor or outdoor. However, not only does the probability of transmission differ, but the impact of each transmission event depends on the ability of a single transmission event to transmit the virus to new, previously unaffected, socially segmented groups in society. Effective policy-making should be guided by a nuanced understanding of how infections spread , ensuring that interventions are proportional to the risk they aim to address. In this study, we performed a number of theoretical experiments on generated networks that are structurally similar to real social contact networks. We simulated a fictitious epidemic on different sample graphs and with different contact restrictions, and then compared the trajectories. Based on the observed differences, we identified the contact types whose restriction can have effect in curbing the epidemic. We find that it is particularly worth focusing on the relationships that form a bridge between clusters or communities. By doing so, public health efforts can more successfully balance the dual goals of minimizing transmission and maintaining social and economic stability.
Research on Tugboat Scheduling Optimization Model Considering the Reliability of Tugboat Matching Scheme
Authors: Ren Yangjun , Li Mengchi , Lei Yushun , Zhou Yan , Liu Di , Tu Jianjun , Li Botang
Published: February 2025

The selection and scheduling of tugboat matching schemes are key tasks in tugboat assistance operation management. With large ships requiring more tugboat assistance, a two-stage multi-criteria decision-making method is proposed. This includes a normal distribution-based multi-attribute group decision-making method with triangular fuzzy numbers to determine tugboat matching scheme reliability. A tugboat scheduling planning model for multiple berthing bases is then established, targeting the minimization of total fuel cost and total matching scheme reliability. This bi-objective problem is solved using the posteriori method, with actual data from Nansha Port validating the proposed method. Meanwhile, a priority-based encoding Memetic algorithm is designed to address the characteristics of the problem, and the solution results for 25 test cases generated from the actual data range of the Guangzhou Port are compared and analyzed using CPLEX, genetic algorithms, and simulated annealing algorithms. The results verify the feasibility of the proposed priority-based encoding Memetic algorithm. The enhanced multi-attribute group decision-making method helps decision-makers quickly select suitable matching schemes and optimize tugboat scheduling, demonstrating effective reliability evaluation and planning optimization.
Clinical Analysis of 10 Cases of Rituximab Treatment for Refractory Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Gastrointestinal Involvement
Authors: Liu Ying , Zhang Na , Mi LangYu , Liu Yang , Xu Ke
Published: February 2025

Objective To analyze the clinical efficacy of rituximab (RTX) treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with intestinal involvement by comparing the clinical manifestations, immune indicators, and imaging changes before and after treatment, and to assess its effect on alleviating intestinal damage.Methods The efficacy and adverse reactions of RTX treatment in 10 SLE patients with intestinal involvement, who were hospitalized in the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology at Shanxi Bethune Hospital from January 2015 to January 2024, were analyzed.Results Among the 10 patients, the total disease duration of SLE was 6.2 ± 9.2 years, and the duration of intestinal involvement after SLE diagnosis was 79.2 ± 47.6 months. The time from the onset of intestinal symptoms to the confirmed diagnosis of SLE intestinal involvement was 1.7 (1.0, 7.0) months, and the time from diagnosis of intestinal involvement to the initiation of RTX treatment was 14.1 (1.0, 53.3) months. The follow-up period after RTX treatment was 54.1 ± 27.4 months.The baseline SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) for the 10 patients was 21.5 ± 8.08.After receiving RTX (0.5 g on day 1 and day 14) induction therapy, all 10 patients showed complete resolution of intestinal symptoms, significant improvement in clinical symptoms, reduced or disappeared abdominal pain, alleviation or disappearance of gastrointestinal wall thickening and edema, and relief of intestinal obstruction/perforation. Complement C3 and C4 levels improved, IL-6 decreased, absolute B lymphocyte count decreased, SLEDAI score decreased, with a 100% remission rate and a 10% relapse rate.Among these, 3 patients who received high-dose corticosteroid pulse therapy combined with RTX experienced infections.Conclusion Rituximab therapy can effectively improve serum immunological indicators, imaging findings, and intestinal damage in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and intestinal involvement, showing good clinical efficacy.
Asymmetric indexable cutter bodies for better chatter resistance
Authors: Demirel Hatice Elif Tola , Bediz Bekir , Munoa Jokin , Kilic Zekai Murat
Published: February 2025

Milling operations are often limited by regenerative chatter vibrations arising due to the flexible machine tool parts which have dynamic effects on both stationary and rotary directions. Additionally, asymmetricity (or, non-axisymmetricity) of the milling cutter has an impact on rotating dynamics of the machine tool. However, asymmetric cutters may not always have positive effects hence care must be taken when using them. This paper investigates how to achieve desired chatter stability characteristics by tuning the dynamic response of the tool body. Both frequency and time domain methods were used to predict the stability lobes diagram according to the measured tool tip frequency response functions. An indexable end mill with exchangeable head is used for demonstration of dynamic tuning. Additionally, receptance coupling substructure analysis is used to predict the tool tip frequency response function for various degrees of asymmetry. The milling tests validated that the proposed approach captures the sensitivity of the stability lobes diagram to the degree of asymmetricity. The highest degree of asymmetricity had an unacceptable reduction in stability, while the suggested degree moves the stability pocket below the maximum spindle speed while keeping similar stable depth of cut.
Physical Activity Levels And Influencing Factors Related To Work Among Outpatient And Emergency Nurses: A Cross Sectional
Authors: Fitria Nita , Karisa Putri , Manseaur Geraldino Hendy , Yanti Silvya Dwi , Fitrianingrum Ajeng , Ramdhiani Nadila , Purwanti Dewi , Fajar Muhamad Gustaf Al
Published: February 2025

Background
Physical activity and nurses are inseparable because nurses have a great prevalence of standing, dynamic standing, sitting, lying, and walking, which are the significant factors that influence physical work behavior differences
Purpose
This study aimed to determine the demographic factors that correlate with the physical activity level of nurses
Patients and methods:
Our study used a correlational design with 117 nurses including 57 emergency nurses and 60 outpatient nurses. This study used the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) as the instrument. Research analysis with the Spearman test.
Results
There is a relationship between room unit (p = 0.025), age (p = 0.022), and length of work (p = 0.046) and the level of physical activity of nurses. The room unit is the dominant factor affecting nurses' physical activity level (Stand. Estimate = 0.177; 95% CI = -0.046–0.621; p = 0.91). There is a significant relationship between room unit, age, and length of service compared with the nurses' activity level. Meanwhile, career level was not associated with nurses' activity level.
Conclusion
Physical activity levels among outpatient and emergency nurses in Indonesia vary significantly, with occupational factors such as shift patterns and workload playing a critical role. Tailored interventions aimed at promoting physical activity within these healthcare settings are necessary to enhance the health and performance of nurses.
The impact of “poverty alleviation” on the income of urban and rural residents in state-level impoverished counties: evidence from China
Authors: Lan Feng , Tan Shuohua , Li Hanxiong
Published: February 2025

Due to the differences in national conditions of different countries, the effectiveness of the exit mechanism of impoverished areas in different countries is still controversial.Therefore, based on the data of 832 state-level impoverished counties in China from 2013 to 2020, the research goal of this paper is to apply the Staggered DlD method to study the impact effect and mechanism of poverty alleviation in national impoverished counties on the income of urban and rural residents, which is of great significance to stimulate the income increase of impoverished population.The results indicates that:(1)With the support of positive incentive policies and sound exit mechanisms, after poverty alleviation, the two-way fixed effect model shows that the income of urban and rural residents in China's poverty alleviation counties has a significant growth effect. (2)In addition, there is regional heterogeneity in the growth effect of urban and rural residents' income in impoverished counties, which generally presents the differentiation pattern of “high at the eastern and western ends, low in the middle” and “high in the south, low in the north”. (3)Further analysis by using the generalized synthetic control method confirms the effectiveness of the poverty alleviation policy. (4)The influence mechanism of poverty alleviation on urban and rural residents' income is heterogeneous, in which level of agricultural mechanization, education, social welfare and local financial hematopoietic capacity have significant promotion effects on the income of urban and rural residents in impoverished counties. The research in this paper not only enriches the research content and realistic path of consolidating China's poverty alleviation achievements, but also makes certain theoretical and practical contributions to the revitalization and development of China’s once-impoverished counties.
Hydrogen Isotopes Retention Studies Using Laser and Microwave Induced Plasma Coupling
Authors: Vujadinovic Nikola , Traparic Ivan , Stankov Biljana Duško , Rankovic Dragan , Kuzmanovic Miroslav , Ivkovic Milivoje
Published: February 2025

The detection of deuterium and tritium retention in fusion devices via optical emission spectroscopy (OES) faces significant challenges due to experimental limitations, particularly in resolving hydrogen isotope Balmer alpha lines (Hα, Dα, and Tα). In this study, we propose and evaluate the coupling of laser ablation and laser-induced desorption with microwave-induced plasma (MIP) as an approach to resolve this problem. This approach effectively meets the resolution requirements for Balmer alpha lines, overcoming limitations of standard laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) setups. Optimization of Nd:YAG laser ablation was performed using pure copper and tungsten targets, while desorption, including femtosecond (fs) laser-induced desorption, was studied on graphite powder mixed with heavy water and water. The results demonstrate a significant improvement in spectral resolution and analytical performances, highlighting the potential of this technique for tritium retention studies in plasma-facing components.
DFT-Based Insights into Ga₆N₆ Nanoring for Pollutant Gas Sensing: Adsorption Energetics and Electronic Modulations
Authors: Sutradhar Rajib K. , Zala Vidit B. , Shukla Rishit S. , Gupta Sanjeev K. , Gajjar P. N.
Published: February 2025

Environmental pollution, a pressing global concern, is primarily caused by the release of harmful gases. These gases, such as carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), ammonia (NH3), nitrogen oxides (NO, NO2), and sulphur dioxide (SO2), significantly contribute to climate change, environmental degradation, and adverse health effects. To address this issue, the development of advanced materials, particularly nanomaterials with their large surface area and active sites, is crucial for detecting and reducing these pollutants. The present study investigated the interaction between toxic gas molecules and a Ga6N6 nanoring using density functional theory. The results, with adsorption energies are 2.09 eV, -1.75 eV, -2.04 eV and -1.01 eV, revealed strong binding between the nanoring and CO2, NO, NO2 and SO2 gas molecules, respectively, indicating a promising potential for sensing and removing these gases. However, the interactions with CO and NH3 were weaker, suggesting that Ga6N6 nanoring may not be well-suited for detecting these gases. Based on the recovery time analysis, the Ga6N6 nanoring shows potential for storing or removing CO2, NO, NO2 and SO2 gas molecules from a specific environment. Due to longer recovery time, the nanoring can effectively bind and hold these gas molecules, making it a promising candidate for environmental remediation applications.
Relationship between Chinese Pre-service Mathematics Teachers’ Knowledge, Pedagogical beliefs, and Noticing
Authors: Yang Xinrong , Deng Jun , König Johannes , Kaiser Gabriele
Published: February 2025

While the theoretical discourse posits teacher knowledge and beliefs as critical factors influencing teacher noticing, few studies have empirically explored the interrelationship among these constructs within a single investigation, particularly in a non-Western context. This paper examines the relationships among teacher knowledge, pedagogical beliefs, and teacher noticing, with a specific focus on the mediating role of beliefs between teacher knowledge and noticing, based on a study involving 583 pre-service mathematics teachers within the Chinese context. The findings indicate that in contrast to common expectations and earlier results pre-service teachers’ mathematical content knowledge (MCK), rather than their mathematical pedagogical content knowledge (MPCK), exhibits a stronger correlation with teachers’ noticing. However, as expected, transmissive pedagogical beliefs significantly and negatively correlate with noticing, while constructivist pedagogical beliefs demonstrate a significant positive relationship with noticing. Furthermore, the study reveals that teacher knowledge and pedagogical beliefs distinctly influence various facets of teacher noticing confirming theoretically derived assumptions. Notably, pedagogical beliefs serve as a significant mediator between teacher knowledge and noticing. The findings suggest that apparently societal and cultural norms, alongside teaching experience, moderate the relationships among teacher knowledge, beliefs, and noticing.
Sentiment Analysis of Product Customer Reviews on Tunisian Online Sale Sites
Authors: I Afef SLIMAN , Author Ali SALEM
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the Customer Reviews Analysis of Products, collected from Tunisian online retail platforms, is performed by collecting the data with the help of the web scraping method. Approaches comprise a language detection process that will handle the reviews in any language, followed by sentiment analysis, which in turn forms the polarity of comments: positive, negative, or neutral. The classification of opinions has been done using some machine learning algorithms: Support Vector Machines, Decision Trees, Random Forests, and Naive Bayes. Besides, in this paper, the Tf-Idf method is applied to represent and classify the texts. This research will give some effective insights into improving customer satisfaction and optimizing business strategy regarding the context of Tunisian e-commerce.
Nordgren Physics-Informed Neural Networks to Variational Quantum Eigensolver: Advancing Hydraulic Fracturing Simulations in Shale Reservoirs
Authors: Wayo Dennis Delali Kwesi , Irawan Sonny , Noor Mohd Zulkifli Bin Mohamad , Zafar Mudasar , Juziyeva Shynar , Saporetti Camila Martins , Goliatt Leonardo , Hazlett Randy
Published: February 2025

This study advances hydraulic fracturing simulations in shale reservoirs using two computational paradigms, Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) and the Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE). PINNs are employed to solve Nordgren’s equation, which governs fracture width evolution, by embedding physical laws into the neural network architecture. Using TensorFlow on Google Colab, the PINN training process incorporates Adam, L-BFGS, and Newton-CG optimizers, achieving an accuracy of 1.23x10-9 for fluid viscosity \mu = 8.0 Pa.s, fracture height H = 2.0m, and leak-off coefficient CL = 1.0. However, this approach demands significant computational resources, with training times exceeding 1454 seconds and memory usage of 1136 MB in some cases. Conversely, the VQE framework leverages Qiskit on Qbraid to optimize the Hamiltonian representing the fracture system. With qubit-based ansatz circuits and classical optimizers (SPSA, COBYLA, and L-BFGS), VQE achieves rapid energy minimization, converging to approximately -0.583+0j in under 2 seconds with negligible memory requirements. Spatiotemporal fracture width predictions from VQE align well with expected trends but exhibit slight oscillations due to quantum noise. This comparative study highlights the trade-offs where PINNs excel in accuracy and physical adherence, while VQE offers unparalleled efficiency for rapid computations. The hybrid application of PINN precision and VQE speed provides a robust toolkit for optimizing hydrocarbon recovery. Future research will explore integrating these paradigms for scalable, high-fidelity simulations across complex geological settings.
The Impact of Land Transfer on the Retirement Strategies of Elderly Farmers in China ——An empirical analysis based on the endogenous switching probit model
Authors: Li Shiwei , Jiang Aijun , Ma Junlong
Published: February 2025

with China's early entry into a moderately aging society, the aging problem in rural areas has become increasingly prominent, and the pension problem of elderly farmers has become the focus of social attention. Based on the data of the 2018 China Health and pension Survey (Charls), this paper uses the endogenous transformation probit model to analyze the impact of land transfer on elderly farmers' pension strategies. The research shows that, first of all, after the land transfer, the elderly farmers prefer to choose family pension, which is still true after a series of robustness tests, and there are significant regional differences in this effect. The elderly farmers in the central and eastern regions and major grain producing regions prefer family pension, while the elderly farmers in the western and non major grain producing regions prefer individual pension. In addition, the mechanism analysis shows that land transfer significantly increases the possibility of children living separately from their parents, which directly promotes elderly farmers to choose family pension. Finally, factors such as age, gender, endowment insurance ownership, the need to care for grandchildren, children's satisfaction and daily living ability also have a significant impact on the elderly farmers' choice of pension strategies. Based on this, this paper puts forward a series of targeted policy recommendations. In view of the particularity of the western region, this paper puts forward some suggestions, such as strengthening family support for the elderly, building elderly care service facilities, encouraging social participation in elderly care services, and improving family economic income through industrial poverty alleviation.
Rapid pan-biodiversity lifeform and genomic diversity detection from shotgun sequencing of air eDNA
Authors: Duffy David J. , McCauley Mark , Nousias Orestis , Stammnitz Maximilian R. , Farrell Jessica A. , Koda Samantha A. , Summers Victoria , Eastman Catherine B. , Duffy Fiona G. , Duffy Isabelle J. , Whilde Jenny
Published: February 2025

Biodiversity and its associated genetic diversity are being lost at an unprecedented rate. Simultaneously, the distributions of flora, fauna, fungi, microbes and pathogens are rapidly changing. Novel ways to capture and record genetic diversity before it is lost, and to measure population shifts and pathogen distributions are urgently required. Here we report the rapid application of shotgun long-read environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis for non-invasive biodiversity, genetic diversity and pathogen assessments from air. We also compared air eDNA with water and soil eDNA. Coupling long-read sequencing with established cloud-based biodiversity pipelines enabled a two-day turnaround from airborne sample collection to completed analysis, by a single investigator. To determine the full utility of airborne eDNA, we also conducted a local bioinformatic analysis and deep short-read shotgun sequencing. From outdoor air eDNA alone, comprehensive genetic analysis was performed including population genetics (phylogenetic placement) of a charismatic mammal (bobcat, Lynx rufus), and a venomous spider (golden silk orb weaver, Trichonephila clavipes), and haplotyping humans (Homo sapiens), from natural complex community settings, such as sub-tropical forests and temperate locations. The rich datasets also enabled deeper analysis of specific species and genomic regions of interest, including viral variant calling, human variant analysis, and antimicrobial resistance gene surveillance from airborne DNA. Our results highlight the speed, versatility, and specificity of pan-biodiversity monitoring via non-invasive eDNA sampling using current benchtop/portable and cloud-based approaches. Furthermore, they reveal the future feasibility of scaling down (equipment and temporally) these approaches for near real-time analysis. Together these approaches can enable rapid lifeform and genetic diversity detection from air, water, and sediment samples for unbiased non-targeted information-rich genomics-empowered i) biodiversity monitoring, ii) population genetics, iii) pathogen and disease vector genomic surveillance, iv) allergen and narcotic surveillance, v) antimicrobial resistance surveillance and vi) bioprospecting.