bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Some Quality Parameters of Pumpkin Seeds and Oil After Roasting with Marjoram
Authors: Kozłowska Mariola , Ziarno Małgorzata , Zawada Katarzyna , Kowalska Hanna , Derewiaka Dorota , Chobot Małgorzata , Ścibisz Iwona
Published: January 2025

Consumers include pumpkin seeds in their diet as a snack in raw form or minimally processed by roasting. This process enables the seeds to develop a characteristic aroma and color. Herbs and spices are also distinguished by a pleasant and delicate aroma. Among them, marjoram is particularly suited to drying, retaining its flavor better than other dried herbs. Marjoram can be used to impart flavor and aroma to food products and extend their shelf life because it can prevent lipid autoxidation. In this study, pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo) were roasted with and without dried marjoram at 110 and 160 °C for 10 and 30 min, after which the oils were extracted. The results showed that with increasing temperature and roasting time, the moisture content and water activity of pumpkin seeds decreased. Furthermore, roasting pumpkin seeds with marjoram, particularly at 110 °C, enriched their aroma profile with terpenes characteristic of the marjoram aroma. Whether pumpkin seeds were roasted with or without marjoram, the fatty acid composition of the oils obtained was dominated by palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic acids. However, the presence of marjoram during pumpkin seeds roasting resulted in lower peroxide values and specific extinction coefficients K232 and K270 in the oils obtained compared to their counterparts roasted without this spice. In addition, all the oils showed the ability to scavenge DPPH· radicals and were characterized by a higher proportion of yellow (positive value of the b* parameter) and green (negative value of the a* parameter) color. In comparison with the oil extracted from unroasted pumpkin seeds, the oil obtained after roasting exhibited a lower chlorophyll and a higher carotenoid content. Thus, roasting pumpkin seeds with spices may enrich their aroma profile with additional components, and the oils obtained may be characterized by better quality parameters.
An Updated Review of the Antimicrobial Potential of Selenium Nanoparticles and Selenium-Related Toxicological Issues
Authors: Oliveira Tainá Pereira da Silva , Lima Alan Kelbis Oliveira , Muehlmann Luís Alexandre
Published: January 2025

Discovered in mid-1817 by Jöns Jacob Berzelius, selenium, belonging to Group 16 of the periodic table is an essential trace element for human and animal health, due to its biocompatibility and bioavailability. Additionally, it is known for having different oxidation states, which allows it to interact with distinct chemical elements to form various compounds. Selenium exhibits two forms, organic and inorganic; the latter is known for its genotoxicity. Selenium nanoparticles have been investigated as an alternative to mitigate the toxicity of this element. With antidiabetic, antiviral, chemopreventive, and antimicrobial properties, SeNPs possess significant biomedical potential and can be synthesized using chemical, physical, or green methods, offering new solutions for combating microbial resistance and other diseases. This review discusses the historical discovery of selenium, preparation methods, the versatility of combinations for synthesis, morphological characteristics, and sizes, as well as the impact of SeNP applications obtained through different approaches against medically relevant microorganisms, particularly those exhibiting resistance to conventional antimicrobials.
Falling Back in Love with Trans-Inclusive Feminism: Canadian Creative Artists Re-Story Death and Choose Transformation
Authors: Harvey Devon
Published: January 2025

Prevailing political and popular narratives often treat the issue of trans death as an inevitability and reduce complex stories of trans life to their endings. This paper investigates the transformative potential of creative forms of resistance—specifically a selection of Canadian poetry, personal essays, and comics—and how their artistic affordances engage with transfeminism as an approach to narratives of trans existence. Rooted in Canadian author Kai Cheng Thom’s reckoning with the shortcomings of trans-exclusionary feminist thought, and informed by Chinua Achebe’s conceptualization of re-storying, this article explores how I Hope We Choose Love and Falling Back in Love with Being Human by Kai Cheng Thom, Death Threat by Canadian creatives Vivek Shraya and Ness Lee, and comics from Assigned Male by trans activist and Canadian comic artist Sophie Labelle re-story “necessary” trans death to orient queer death spaces around a trans-for-trans (t4t) praxis of narrativization. Addressing the (inter)disciplinary possibilities of trans-inclusive feminism and comics studies, this article celebrates how these texts disavow and re-story the “Good” Trans Character, who dies to satisfy transmisogynistic ideologies, and theorizes the T4t Dead Trans Character, who dies to reclaim instances of trans death and recodify trans personhood as a site of hope, agency, and self-determination. In their re-storying, these texts recognize the transformative potential of trans existence and echo Thom in their urging of trans-inclusive feminism to renounce narratives of disposability and invest in the dignity of all human life.
Transcendence of the Human Far Beyond AI—Kafka’s In the Penal Colony and Schopenhauerian Eschatology
Authors: Fauth Søren Robert
Published: January 2025

Humanity has always aspired beyond the human. The technological development in recent decades has been extraordinary, leading to new attempts to overcome the all-too-human condition. We dream of conquering death, upgrading our bodies into perfect performance machines and enhancing our intelligence through bio-nanotechnology. We are familiar with the side effects: alienation, stress, anxiety, depression. This article contends that Franz Kafka’s enigmatic oeuvre at its core harbors a yearning to transcend the human. Through a close reading of the narrative In the Penal Colony, it is demonstrated that this yearning is far more radical and uncompromising than the modern vision of extending and optimizing human life. Instead of the modern ego-concerned affirmation of life and the body that hides behind much of AI and modern technology, Kafka seeks a radical vision of total transformation and transcending the human into ‘nothingness’. The article shows that this transformation corresponds to core concepts in Arthur Schopenhauer’s philosophy, primarily his doctrine of the denial of the will to live and asceticism. Instead of the species-narcissistic affirmation of life and the body that lurks behind much of AI and modern technology, Kafka strives for a definitive overcoming of the life we desire.
The Moderating Effect of Self-Efficacy on Physical Function, Aging Anxiety, and Active Aging in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Oh Myunghwa , Park Gyeong-A
Published: January 2025

Objectives: Aging older adults experience psychological anxiety along with declines in physical function, which decreases the level of active aging and physical activity participation. The purpose of this study was to identify the moderating effect of self-efficacy on active aging to improve the occupational participation of community-dwelling older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among older adults in Gwangju and Jeollanamdo using the snowball sampling method. The final sample consisted of 280 adults. The survey included demographic data, the Outpatient Physical Therapy Improvement in Movement Assessment Log, the Anxiety about Aging Scale, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Active Aging Scale, respectively. Using the Hayes PROCESS macro (Models 3.3), moderated effect analyses were performed. Results: A total of 307 participants (aged 65–92 years) and 280 data points were used in the final analysis after excluding 27 incomplete data points. The physical function of older adults has a positive effect on active aging, aging anxiety significantly predicts negative effects, and self-efficacy shows a moderating effect on the relationship between physical function, aging anxiety, and active aging. Conclusions: This study shows the moderating effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between physical function, aging anxiety, and active aging in older people. These results suggest that a psychological support program to promote self-efficacy is an important resource as a community support system to prevent decline in occupational participation due to physical function decline and aging anxiety and to improve active aging in older people.
Pilot Study on the Assessment of Therapeutic Education in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Olejniczak Dominik , Tworzydlak Vivienne , Kurowska Aleksandra , Blaszka Karolina , Swakowska Katarzyna , Staniszewska Anna
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder primarily managed through insulin therapy, which is crucial for achieving optimal glycemic control in children and adolescents. Therapeutic education is essential, equipping patients and their families with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective self-management. This familial support plays a critical role in the success of therapy and in fostering an environment conducive to the child’s self-management of the condition. A core objective of therapeutic education is the prevention of complications associated with T1DM. Children and adolescents are made aware of the importance of consistent disease management by receiving information about the potential consequences of prolonged metabolic dysregulation. Methods: The study employed a diagnostic survey method with a proprietary questionnaire consisting of a demographic section and 28 closed-ended questions. The survey was conducted between February and May 2024 at the Pediatric Diabetes and Pediatrics Clinical Department of the Polikarp Brudziński Independent Public Children’s Clinical Hospital in Warsaw. A total of 100 valid responses were included. Data were analyzed using frequency analysis for categorical variables, descriptive statistics for quantitative data, and Pearson’s Chi-squared test for relationship analysis. Results: Most parents (76%) initiated knowledge acquisition in diabetology departments. Group and individual training sessions were attended by 58% of respondents. Training frequency was predominantly daily (88%), and 92% of parents stressed the importance of consistent education. The vast majority (96%) of participants rated the training as well prepared, with 100% affirming that the education was adapted to their needs. Conclusions: Therapeutic education for children with T1DM is highly effective, particularly when integrating individual and group training sessions. Regular daily exercise is associated with higher levels of knowledge and skills in diabetes management. This emphasizes the importance of structured and frequent educational programs to optimize disease control, enhance familial support, and prevent complications, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Understanding Parental Satisfaction in Caring for Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Kołacka Aleksandra , Matthews-Kozancecka Maja , Komisarek Oskar , Kwiatkowski Jacek , Domagalska Aleksandra , Samborski Włodzimierz , Mojs Ewa , Andrusiewicz Mirosław , Malak Roksana
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The life satisfaction of parents of children with cerebral palsy should be assessed. Parenting a child with a disability may bring more challenges and efforts, impacting overall quality of life. Aim of the Study: the study aimed to evaluate the satisfaction with life of parents of children with cerebral palsy. Material and Methods: The study was designed to assess the satisfaction with life of parents of children with cerebral palsy. To measure this outcome, we developed an original survey consisting of 29 questions inspired by the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS). The study involved 43 parents or legal guardians of children diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Results: A correlation was identified between parental life satisfaction and the amount of leisure time reported by parents (p = 0.004, R = 0.46). The research indicates that parental life satisfaction does not depend on the parent’s satisfaction with the level of therapy (p > 0.05) and the degree of improvement in the child’s functioning (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The level of parental life satisfaction does not depend on the level and outcome of therapy. The more leisure time the parents have, the greater their life satisfaction is. Parents of children with cerebral palsy should take care of their free time.
Embedded Parallel Practice: A Result of Divergence Between Exam Requirements and Clerkship Content
Authors: Fog-Pedersen Cecilie Marie , Soejnaes Charlotte , Borgnakke Karen , Arnfred Sidse Marie
Published: January 2025

Transitioning from being a student to becoming a professional is challenging even though medical education provides periods of clinical practice and clerkships to support the transfer between university and the future work as a doctor. Using an ethnographic approach, we investigated how medical students navigated their clerkship in psychiatry. We applied the concepts from situated learning in the analysis of students’ navigation of discrepancies between course requirements and clerkship routines. The analysis shows different ways of navigating the clerkship, which all beget a parallel practice embedded in the clinical setting, where students choose to engage in tasks that directly prepare them for the university exam. The parallel practice is counterproductive for the student’s development of a professional identity, which is an important element of transitioning from being a student to becoming a medical doctor. Therefore, it is imperative to consider, if this undermines the university’s ambition of delivering doctors prepared for clinical practice.
Hylomecon japonica: A Review About Botanical Aspects, Traditional Applications, Chemical Composition, and Pharmacological Properties
Authors: Tian Yue , Xia Guangqing , Zhu Junyi , Li Li , Zang Hao
Published: January 2025

Hylomecon japonica (Thunb.) Prantl et Kundig is a plant whose root and rhizome belong to the genus Hylomecon within the Papaveraceae family. It has a long medicinal history and has been traditionally used to treat various conditions, including wind–cold–dampness obstruction syndrome, rheumatic joint pain, traumatic injuries, excessive fatigue, weakness of the limbs, epigastric pain, and dysentery. Modern pharmacological research confirms that Hylomecon japonica exhibits effects such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities. To gain a comprehensive understanding of this plant, a thorough literature review was conducted using databases like Scifinder, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and CNKI. This review provides an overview of the traditional applications, geographical distribution, botanical description, chemical composition, and pharmacological effects of Hylomecon japonica. Researchers have isolated and identified a total of one hundred and thirty-five components from Hylomecon japonica, including alkaloids, saponins, phenolics, flavonoids, other compounds, and trace elements. Notably, alkaloids and saponins have shown significant anti-tumor and antibacterial effects. Additionally, extracts of Hylomecon japonica have demonstrated promising activity in anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and varicose vein treatment applications. Despite the existing foundational research, further studies are necessary to enhance our understanding of its mechanisms and pathways of action. This research will provide valuable references for active ingredient research and the development and utilization of Hylomecon japonica’s medicinal value. By continuing to explore this plant’s potential, we can pave the way for new therapeutic advancements and improve health outcomes for patients worldwide.
Runnability: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tegart Ashley D. , Schuurman Nadine , Harden Stella R.
Published: January 2025

Running outdoors is an increasingly popular form of physical activity and has been proven to substantially reduce the risk of major chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease. The topic of runnability has received considerable attention but with conflicting conclusions and remaining gaps. The physical environment and its features impact running experiences. Detecting features facilitating and deterring runners is crucial to promoting this physical activity and, therefore, overall health. A scoping review of current literature was conducted to identify environmental factors conducive to running. Online databases were used to identify all articles on runnability to date; a total of one hundred and two (n = 102) papers were selected as they identified environmental correlates preferred by runners. Findings include a preference for green spaces and connecting with nature, perceptions of higher safety away from traffic congestion and pollution, and routes with wide, smooth surfaces and high connectivity. Essentially, natural surroundings are substantially more desirable than urban settings. Studies have shown that even when a running route is within an urban environment, it is usually connected to or between green spaces.
Identification of Four New Mutations in the GLA Gene Associated with Anderson–Fabry Disease
Authors: Anania Monia , Pieruzzi Federico , Giacalone Irene , Trezzi Barbara , Marsana Emanuela Maria , Roggero Letizia , Francofonte Daniele , Stefanoni Michele , Vinci Martina , Zizzo Carmela , Zora Marcomaria , Di Chiara Tiziana , Duro Giulia , Duro Giovanni , Colomba Paolo
Published: January 2025

Anderson–Fabry disease is a hereditary, progressive, multisystemic lysosomal storage disorder caused by a functional deficiency of the enzyme α-galactosidase A (α-GalA). This defect is due to mutations in the GLA gene, located in the long arm of the X chromosome (Xq21-22). Functional deficiency of the α-GalA enzyme leads to reduced degradation and accumulation of its substrates, predominantly globotriaosylceramide (Gb3), which accumulate in the lysosomes of numerous cell types, giving rise to the symptomatology. Clinical diagnosis can still be difficult today due to the peculiarities of the disease, which presents with clinical manifestations that overlap with those of other pathologies and a wide possibility of differential diagnoses, which lead to missed diagnoses, misdiagnosis, or a diagnostic delay. Patients with clinical suspicion of Fabry disease undergo a diagnostic workup that includes an evaluation of α-GALA enzyme activity, genetic analysis of the GLA gene, and the measurement of blood Lyso-Gb3, a soluble derivative of Gb3. In this paper, we describe four novel mutations identified in the GLA gene which are associated with absent or reduced α-GalA activity, pathological accumulation of the specific substrate, and characteristic clinical manifestations of Fabry disease. We identified two mutations (c.583insGAATA and p.Y207X) that result in the formation of a premature translation stop codon, resulting in a truncated protein and thus a completely non-functional enzyme. The other two identified gene alterations (p.G261C and c.786G>T, which determine p.W262C) are missense mutations that cause reduced α-GALA activity, the accumulation of blood Lyso-Gb3, and symptoms consistent with Fabry disease, and therefore may be associated with this disorder. The identification of these new mutations in patients with symptoms attributable to Fabry disease increases the molecular knowledge of the GLA gene and provides important support to the clinician, for a more accurate and timely diagnosis of the pathology.
The Effect of Adipose-Derived Stem Cell (ADSC)-Exos on the Healing of Autologous Skin Grafts in Miniature Pigs
Authors: Li Pujun , Cao Lei , Liu Tao , Lu Xiangyu , Ma Yajun , Wang Hongbin
Published: January 2025

The skin functions as the body’s primary defense barrier; when compromised, it can lead to dehydration, infection, shock, or potentially life-threatening conditions. Miniature pigs exhibit skin characteristics and healing processes highly analogous to humans. Mesenchymal stem cells contribute to skin injury repair through a paracrine mechanism involving exosomes. This research examines whether adipose-derived MSC exosomes effectively enhance healing following autologous skin grafting in miniature pigs. It also compares the roles and distinctions of ADSCs and ADSC-Exos in inflammatory responses and tissue regeneration. This study found significantly reduced levels of oxidative stress products and pro-inflammatory factors, while antioxidant factors, anti-inflammatory factors, and pro-regenerative factors were elevated, and anti-regenerative factor levels decreased. Moreover, the expression levels of key markers—namely, PI3K, Akt, and mTOR—in the regeneration-associated signaling pathway were increased. The alterations in these indicators indicate that ADSC-Exos can regulate inflammatory responses and promote regeneration. This study provides a novel theoretical foundation for the implementation of acellular therapy in clinical settings.
Assessing Human Factors in Virtual Reality Environments for Industry 5.0: A Comprehensive Review of Factors, Metrics, Techniques, and Future Opportunities
Authors: Escallada Oscar , Lasa Ganix , Mazmela Maitane , Apraiz Ainhoa , Osa Nagore , Nguyen Ngoc Hien
Published: January 2025

Industry 5.0, the latest evolution in industrial processes, builds upon the principles of Industry 4.0 by emphasizing human-centric approaches and the integration of virtual reality technologies. This paradigm shift underscores the importance of collaboration between humans and advanced technologies with a focus on optimizing efficiency, safety, and worker skill development. Based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, this study conducts a systematic literature review, identifying 328 papers from databases. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 24 papers were selected for detailed analysis. The review provides valuable insights into the diverse evaluation methods employed in the literature, and a detailed classification of 29 human factors with their associated metrics. Despite the absence of a standardized method for assessing human factors in VR experiences, this comprehensive analysis of 240 different ways of measuring factors highlights the current state of evaluating human-centered VR experiences in Industry 5.0. While the review reveals some limitations such as potential bias in study selection and heterogeneity of methods, it also identifies significant research gaps and proposes future directions. This study contributes to the establishment of a coherent structure for future research and development in human-centered design within the rapidly evolving landscape of Industry 5.0, paving the way for more effective and standardized approaches in the future.
Some Circumstances Under Which It Is Rational for Human Agents Not to Trust Artificial Agents
Authors: Buechner Jeff
Published: January 2025

In this paper, I argue that there are several different circumstances in which it is rational for human agents not to trust artificial agents (such as ChatGPT). I claim that artificial agents cannot, in principle, be programmed with their own self (nor a simulation of their own self) and, consequently, cannot properly understand the indexicals ‘I’ and ‘me’. It also follows that they cannot take up a first-person point-of-view and that they cannot be conscious. They can understand that agent so-and-so (described in objective indexical-free terms) trusts or is entrusted but cannot know that they are that agent (if they are) and so cannot know that they are trusted or entrusted. Artificial agents cannot know what it means for it to have a normative expectation, nor what it means for it to be responsible for performing certain actions. Artificial agents lack all of the first-person properties that human agents possess, and which are epistemically important to human agents. Because of these limitations, and because artificial agents figure centrally in the trust relation defined in the Buechner–Tavani model of digital trust, there will be several different kinds of circumstances in which it would be rational for human agents not to trust artificial agents. I also examine the problem of moral luck, define a converse problem of moral luck, and argue that although each kind of problem of moral luck does not arise for artificial agents (since they cannot take up a first-person point-of-view), human agents should not trust artificial agents interacting with those human agents in moral luck and converse moral luck circumstances.
Bridging the Gaps in Atrial Fibrillation Management in the Emergency Department
Authors: Wang Brian Xiangzhi
Published: January 2025

Atrial fibrillation (AF) frequently presents in emergency departments (EDs), contributing significantly to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Despite established guidelines, ED management of AF often varies, revealing important gaps in care. This review addresses specific challenges in AF management for patients in the ED, including the nuances of rate versus rhythm control, the timing of anticoagulation initiation, and patient disposition. The updated 2024 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines advocate early rhythm control for select patients while recommending rate control for others; however, uncertainties persist, particularly regarding these strategies’ long-term impact on outcomes. Stroke prevention through timely anticoagulation remains crucial, though the ideal timing, especially for new-onset AF, needs further research. Additionally, ED discharge protocols and follow-up care for AF patients are often inconsistent, leaving many without proper long-term management. Integration of emerging therapies, including direct oral anticoagulants and advanced antiarrhythmic drugs, shows potential but remains uneven across EDs. Innovative multidisciplinary models, such as “AF Heart Teams” and observation units, could enhance care but face practical challenges in implementation. This review underscores the need for targeted research to refine AF management, optimize discharge protocols, and incorporate novel therapies effectively. Standardizing ED care for AF could significantly reduce stroke risk, lower readmission rates, and improve overall patient outcomes.
The Effect of Peri-Implant Therapy on the Expression of Th17-Related Cytokines in Patients with Peri-Implant Mucositis and Peri-Implantitis: A Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Gonçalves Líssya Tomaz da Costa , Neves Glaucia Schuindt Teixeira , da Silva Alexandre Marques Paes , Telles Daniel de Moraes , Figueredo Carlos Marcelo da Silva , Lourenço Eduardo José Veras , Teixeira Mayla Kezy Silva
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Cytokines related to the Th17 response have been associated with peri-implant diseases; however, the effect of peri-implant therapy on their modulation remains underexplored. To evaluate the effect of peri-implant therapy on the expression of cytokines related to the Th17 response in the peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) (GM-CSF, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12 (p70), IL-17A, IL-21, IL-23, and TNF-α) of partially edentulous patients with peri-implant disease (PID). Methods: Thirty-seven systemically healthy individuals presenting with peri-implant mucositis (PIM) (n = 20) or peri-implantitis (PI) (n = 17) were treated and evaluated at baseline (T0) and three months after therapy (T1). Clinical parameters (probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index, and bleeding on probing index (BoP), were evaluated. The PIM group underwent non-surgical therapy, while the PI group received a surgical approach. PICF was collected with absorbent paper strips and analyzed with a multiplex assay. Results: Eighty-eight implants were treated in 37 patients (56 in the PIM group and 32 in the PI group). After therapy, significant reductions in PD, CAL, plaque index, and BoP were observed in the PIM group (p < 0.05). In the PI group, significant reductions in PD, CAL, and BoP were noted (p < 0.05). The PIM group showed a significant reduction of IL-17A and TNF-α after therapy, while the PI group showed a significant reduction of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The peri-implant therapy for patients with PID reduced the expression of cytokines related to the Th17 response in PICF.
EnBloc Resection of a Chordoma of the Thoracic Spine by “L”-Shaped Osteotomy for Spinal Canal Preservation
Authors: Gasbarrini Alessandro , Pasini Stefano , Fu Zhaozong , Ghermandi Riccardo , Pipola Valerio , Gargiulo Mauro , Innocenti Marco , Boriani Stefano
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: EnBloc resections of bone tumors of the spine are very demanding as the target to achieve a tumor-free margin specimen (sometimes impossible due to the extracompartimental tumor extension) is sometimes conflicting with the integrity of neurological functions and spine stability. Methods: The surgical treatment of a huge multi-level chordoma of the thoracic spine with unusual extension is reported. Anteriorly, the tumor widely invaded the mediastinum and displaced the aorta; on the left side, it expanded in the subpleuric region; posteriorly, it was uncommonly distant 13 mm from the posterior wall. Results: EnBloc resection is largely performed for primary bone tumors of the spine and many reports have been published concerning brilliant solutions to difficult issues of surgical anatomy. One of the major challenges is still the compatibility between oncological and functional requirements. Conclusions: Oncological staging, careful imaging analysis, a multidisciplinary surgical team, and utilization of the most recent technologies like navigation and robotics have made an oncologically appropriate EnBloc resection of a multi-level chordoma of the thoracic spine possible without affecting the continuity of the spinal canal and without any involvement of its content by an original “L”-shaped osteotomy.
Dynamics of Glycemic Status and Glucose Metabolism Markers 12 Months After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting and Their Relationship with the Annual Prognosis of Patients
Authors: Sumin Alexey N. , Bezdenezhnykh Natalia A. , Belik Ekaterina V. , Dyleva Yulia A. , Bezdenezhnykh Andrey V. , Gruzdeva Olga V. , Barbarash Olga L.
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: We aim to evaluate the dynamics of glycemic status and markers of carbohydrate metabolism 12 months after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and their relationship with the one-year prognosis. Materials and Methods: The analysis of outcomes of 653 patients during 1 year after coronary artery bypass grafting is presented. In those patients who visited the study center after 1 year, markers of carbohydrate metabolism (glucose, glycated hemoglobin, fructosamine, 1.5 anhydroglucitol) were assessed; in 371 of them, they were studied at three points—before surgery, before discharge from the hospital, and one year after surgery. The influence of these indicators on the incidence of cardiovascular events (death from any cause, myocardial infarction, stroke, repeat myocardial revascularization, surgical interventions on non-coronary arteries, amputations due to peripheral atherosclerosis, emergency hospitalizations due to cardiovascular disease, or combined endpoint [CEP]) was assessed during the year after CABG. Groups with (n = 59)/absence (n = 594) of the combined endpoint were formed and compared based on the dynamics of carbohydrate metabolism markers over the course of a year. Additionally, factors associated with the development of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) after CABG were assessed. Results: After 1 year, the number of patients with type 2 diabetes increased from 23.9% to 25.6% and prediabetes from 17.2% to 26.6% (p < 0.001). Among patients with diabetes mellitus, the following dynamics of carbohydrate metabolism markers were noted: a decrease in glucose levels in both groups (with or without CEP), glycated hemoglobin in the group without CEP, and fructosamine in the group with CEP. There were no differences in the intergroup comparison of all the described markers (glucose, fructosamine, glycated hemoglobin) and carbohydrate metabolism at all points. The following factors were associated with the development of MACE within a year after CABG: the presence of peripheral arterial disease, preoperative fibrinogen level, the risk of surgery according to the EuroSCORE scale, and off-pump CABG. Conclusions: In patients with diabetes mellitus one year after coronary artery bypass grafting, a decrease in glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels was noted. No differences in the dynamics of carbohydrate metabolism markers were found in the groups of patients with and without cardiovascular complications. The impact of glycated hemoglobin dynamics one year after CABG on long-term prognosis requires further research.
Comparison of Coupled and Uncoupled Modeling of Floating Wind Farms with Shared Anchors
Authors: Coughlan Katherine , Lozon Ericka , Hall Matthew , Martin Bruce , Arwade Sanjay
Published: January 2025

As design options for floating wind farms continue to be explored, shared (or multiline) anchors that secure mooring lines from multiple turbines remain a promising technology that can potentially reduce the number of anchors and overall mooring costs. This study evaluates two methods for analyzing the loads on shared anchors: one in which floating offshore wind turbines are simulated individually (using the software OpenFAST), and one in which an entire floating wind farm is simulated collectively (using the software FAST.Farm). A three-line shared anchor is evaluated for multiple loading scenarios in deep water, using the International Energy Agency 15 MW turbine on the VolturnUS-S semisubmersible platform. While the two methods produce broadly comparable results, the coupled wave loading on platforms within the farm results in wave force cancellations and amplifications that decrease multiline force directional ranges and increase multiline force extreme values (up to 7%) and standard deviations (up to 11%) for wave-driven load cases. The inclusion of wakes in FAST.Farm also reduces the net load on the shared anchor due to the velocity deficit, leading to larger differences between OpenFAST and FAST.Farm (up to 3% difference in mean loads) for load cases with operational turbines.
‘Buzz-and-Pipeline’ Dynamics in AI Innovation Network: A Case Study of Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone, Shanghai
Authors: Wan Yuanyuan , Zeng Gang , Wang Jiawei , Zou Lin
Published: January 2025

The success of a cluster depends on the interplay between intra- and inter-regional collaboration, while empirical research on the mechanisms through which intra- and inter-regional collaborations trigger cluster growth is rarely focused. Based on the local buzz–global pipelines framework and incorporating an evolutionary perspective, we explore how intra- and inter-regional innovation networks can be integrated to drive the growth of emerging industries. We draw on Zhangjiang, China’s most advanced AI industry cluster, using social network analysis and qualitative methods, combining patent data with semi-structured interviews. The results indicate that with the return of multinational corporations and the limitation of Western technology, universities have become the primary source of AI innovation in Zhangjiang. The government has played a pivotal role in propelling the accelerated growth of China’s AI industry, particularly through the backing of pioneering AI private enterprises and the calibration of the potential inefficiencies associated with a state-led model with the dynamism of market forces. The ‘Buzz-and-pipeline’ dynamics in the AI innovation network are shaped by four processes: local networking, market demand, resource integration, and policy synergy. This underscores the intricate interconnections between the national and local scales in AI innovation networks.
Land Use Modeling and Predicted Ecosystem Service Value Under Different Development Scenarios: A Case Study of the Upper–Middle Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Ma Mingwei , He Yuhuai , Sun Yanwei , Cui Huijuan , Zang Hongfei
Published: January 2025

Exploring the future ecosystem service value (ESV) of the upper–middle Yellow River Basin is of great significance to enhancing its ecological security and capacity. This is in response to the strategy for the ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin. In this study, the land use change from 2000 to 2020 was analyzed quantitatively. The land use pattern in 2035 was predicted using Cellular Automata and Markov models under business as usual (BAU), ecological protection (EPS), and high urbanization (HUS) scenarios. The future ESV was estimated and the impact of land use changes on the regional ESV was identified. The results indicate that the study area experienced a reduction (~12,139 km2) in cultivation and an expansion (~10,597 km2) of built-up land from 2000 to 2020. In 2035, under the BAU scenario, the area of construction land and water would expand by 24.52% and 11.51%, respectively, while the area of grassland and unused land would decrease by 18,520 km2 and 2770 km2, respectively. Under the EPS scenario, the area of forests, grasslands, and water would increase by 16.57%, 10.59%, and 4%, respectively. Under three different scenarios, the regional ESVs are estimated at from CNY 2475 to 2710 billion, while grasslands contribute the largest part accounting for from 57.98% to 59.21%. These findings could help to guide land development and protection through regional ecological construction.
Non-Native Listeners’ Use of Information in Parsing Ambiguous Casual Speech
Authors: Warner Natasha , Brenner Daniel , Tucker Benjamin V. , Ernestus Mirjam
Published: January 2025

During conversation, speakers produce reduced speech, and this can create homophones: ‘we were’ and ‘we’re’ can both be realized as [ɚ], and ‘he was’ and ‘he’s’ can be realized as [ɨz]. We investigate the types of information non-native listeners (Dutch L1-English L2) use to perceive the tense of such verbs, making comparisons with previous results from native listeners. The Dutch listeners were almost as successful as natives (average percentage correct for ‘is’/’was’ in the most accurate condition: 81% for Dutch, 88% for natives). The two groups showed many of the same patterns, indicating that both make strong use of whatever acoustic information is available in the signal, even if it is heavily reduced. The Dutch listeners showed one crucial difference: a minimal amount of context around the target, just enough to signal speech rate, did not help Dutch listeners to recover the longer forms, i.e., was/were, from reduced pronunciations. Only the full utterance context (containing syntactic/semantic information such as ‘yesterday’ or another tensed verb) helped Dutch listeners to recover from reduction. They were not able to adjust their criteria based on the surrounding speech rate as native listeners were. This study contributes to understanding how L2 learners parse information from spontaneous speech in a World Englishes setting with inputs from multiple dialects.
Studies of Thermal Conductivity of Graphite Foil-Based Composite Materials
Authors: Shulyak Vladimir A. , Morozov Nikolai S. , Minushkin Roman A. , Gubin Viktor Yu. , Vakhrushin Dmitriy V. , Gracheva Alexandra V. , Nigmatullin Ildar Kh. , Chebotarev Sergei N. , Avdeev Viktor V.
Published: January 2025

We have proposed and developed a method for measuring the thermal conductivity of highly efficient thermal conductors. The measurement method was tested on pure metals with high thermal conductivity coefficients: aluminum (99.999 wt.% Al) and copper (99.990 wt.% Cu). It was demonstrated that their thermal conductivities at a temperature of T = 22 ± 1 °C were <λAl> = 243 ± 3 W/m·K and <λCu> = 405 ± 4 W/m·K, which was in good agreement with values reported in the literature. Artificial graphite (ρG1 = 1.8 g/cm3) and natural graphite (ρG2 = 1.7 g/cm3) were used as reference carbon materials; the measured thermal conductivities were <λG1> = 87 ± 1 W/m·K and <λG2> = 145 ± 3 W/m·K, respectively. It is well established that measuring the thermal conductivity coefficient of thin flexible graphite foils is a complex metrological task. We have proposed to manufacture a solid rectangular sample formed by alternating layers of thin graphite foils connected by layers of ultra-thin polyethylene films. Computer modelling showed that, for equal thermal conductivities of solid products made of compacted thermally exfoliated graphite and products made of a composite material consisting of 100 layers of thin graphite foil and 99 layers of polyethylene, the differences in temperature fields did not exceed 1%. The obtained result substantiates our proposed approach to measuring thermal conductivity of flexible graphite foil by creating a multi-layer composite material. The thermal conductivity coefficient of such a composite at room temperature was <λGF> = 184 ± 6 W/m·K, which aligns well with measurements by the laser flash method.
Mechanical Model of Tensile Loading of Geotechnical Reinforcement Materials
Authors: Liu Hao , Zhang Zhen , Long Zuhui , He Bin , Chen Feng , Chen Ziang , Lin Yuliang
Published: January 2025

To reveal the mechanical behavior and deformation patterns of geotechnical reinforcement materials under tensile loading, a series of tensile tests were conducted on plastic geogrid rib, fiberglass geogrid rib, gabion steel wire, plastic geogrid mesh, fiberglass geogrid mesh, and gabion mesh. The full tensile force–strain relationships of the reinforcement materials were obtained. The failure modes of different geotechnical reinforcement materials were discussed. The standard linear three-element model, the nonlinear three-element model, and the improved Kawabata model were employed to simulate the tensile curves of the various geotechnical reinforcement materials. The main parameters of the tensile models of the geotechnical reinforcement materials were determined. The results showed that a brittle failure occurred in both the plastic geogrid rib and the fiberglass geogrid rib subjected to tensile loading. The gabion steel wire presented obvious elastic–plastic deformation behavior. The tensile resistance of fiberglass geogrid mesh was higher compared to that of plastic geogrid, which was mainly caused by the difference in the cross-sectional areas of these two types of geogrid. Due to a hexagonal mesh structure of gabion mesh, there was a distinct stress adjustment during the tensile process, resulting in a sawtooth fluctuation pattern in tensile curve. Compared to the strip geogrid material, hexagonal-type gabion mesh could withstand higher tensile strain and had greater tensile strength. Brittle failure occurred in both the plastic geogrid rib and the fiberglass geogrid rib when subjected to tensile loading. The gabion steel wire presented obvious elastic–plastic deformation behavior. The standard linear and nonlinear three-element models as well as improved Kawabata model could all well reflect the tensile behavior of geotechnical reinforcement materials before the failure of the material.
Evaluation of the Thermal Insulation Properties of Composites with ZrO2/Al Coatings Intended for the Construction of Protective Gloves
Authors: Miśkiewicz Pamela , Puszkarz Adam K. , Makówka Marcin
Published: January 2025

The article presents research on the evaluation of the use of two four-layer textile composites with ZrO2/Al coatings of different thicknesses (deposited by magnetron sputtering PVD) with potential use in thermally insulating protective gloves designed for steelworkers, welders, or miners. The structure of the composites was analyzed using high-resolution X-ray micro-CT. The assessment of the safety of the glove user was conducted using methods in which the composites were exposed to contact heat, radiant heat, and flame heat. The results showed that both four-layer textile composites equipped with ZrO2/Al coatings provide effective protection against contact heat, radiant heat, and flame heat and can be successfully used in the construction of metallurgical protective gloves. Both composites achieved the first performance level (for contact heat method, for contact temperature 100 °C), the fourth performance level (for radiant heat), and the third performance level (for flame heat).
Stable Reusability of Nanocellulose Aerogels with Amino Group Modification in Adsorption/Desorption Cycles for CO2 Capture
Authors: Valdebenito Fabiola , Albornoz Camila , Rivera Valentina , Elgueta Elizabeth , Nisar Muhammad , Lira Sebastian , Valerio Oscar , Narváez Ana , Quezada Carolina , Muñoz Robinson , Azócar Laura , Sandoval Franco
Published: January 2025

This study evaluated the stability and reusability of amino-functionalized nanocellulose aerogels as CO2-adsorbent materials. The modified aerogels, synthesized via a controlled silylation using N-[3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl] ethylenediamine (DAMO), demonstrated excellent thermal stability up to 250 °C (TGA) and efficient CO2 adsorption through chemisorption, which was the main adsorption mechanism. The performance of the aerogels was assessed using both adsorption isotherms and the decay pressure technique, revealing that CO2 adsorption capacity increased with higher amino group loading (4.62, 9.24, and 13.87 mmol of DAMO). At 298 K and 4 bar, CO2 adsorption capacity increased proportionally with the amino group concentration, reaching values of 3.17, 5.98, and 7.86 mmol of CO2 g−1 polymer, respectively. Furthermore, over 20 adsorption/desorption cycles, the aerogels maintained 95% CO2 desorption at ambient temperature, indicating their potential for industrial use. These findings highlight the aerogels suitability as stable, reusable materials for large scale CO2 capture and storage technologies.
Consistent Estimators of the Population Covariance Matrix and Its Reparameterizations
Authors: Tsai Chia-Hsuan , Tsai Ming-Tien
Published: January 2025

For the high-dimensional covariance estimation problem, when limn→∞p/n=c∈(0,1), the orthogonally equivariant estimator of the population covariance matrix proposed by Tsai and Tsai exhibits certain optimal properties. Under some regularity conditions, the authors showed that their novel estimators of eigenvalues are consistent with the eigenvalues of the population covariance matrix. In this paper, under the multinormal setup, we show that they are consistent estimators of the population covariance matrix under a high-dimensional asymptotic setup. We also show that the novel estimator is the MLE of the population covariance matrix when c∈(0,1). The novel estimator is used to establish that the optimal decomposite TT2-test has been retained. A high-dimensional statistical hypothesis testing problem is used to carry out statistical inference for high-dimensional principal component analysis-related problems without the sparsity assumption. In the final section, we discuss the situation in which p>n, especially for high-dimensional low-sample size categorical data models in which p>>n.
Reduced Order Modeling for Direct Time-Response Analysis Using the Enhanced Craig–Bampton Method
Authors: Boo Seung-Hwan , Hyun Cheolgyu , Kim San , Lee Chaemin
Published: January 2025

The increasing demand for dynamic analysis of large-scale structural systems has highlighted the need for efficient model reduction methods. Reduced order modeling allows large finite element models to be represented with significantly fewer degrees of freedom while retaining essential dynamic characteristics. This paper investigates the Enhanced Craig–Bampton (ECB) method and further explores its application in dynamic analysis. The effectiveness of the ECB method is evaluated by comparing it with the conventional Craig–Bampton (CB) method and the full finite element model using benchmark examples. The numerical results demonstrate that the ECB method provides superior accuracy and computational efficiency, making it a valuable tool for dynamic analysis in complex engineering problems.