bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tooth Autotransplantation, Autogenous Dentin Graft, and Growth Factors Application: A Method for Preserving the Alveolar Ridge in Cases of Severe Infraocclusion—A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Adamska Paulina , Pylińska-Dąbrowska Dorota , Stasiak Marcin , Sobczak-Zagalska Hanna , Jusyk Antoni , Zedler Adam , Studniarek Michał
Published: July 2024

Background: Tooth infraocclusion is a process in which a completely or partially erupted tooth gradually moves away from the occlusal plane. Submerged teeth can lead to serious complications. Treating teeth with infraocclusion is very challenging. One of the procedures allowing for the replacement of a missing tooth is autotransplantation. The aim of this paper is to review the literature on teeth autotransplantation, supported by a case report involving the autotransplantation of a third mandibular molar into the site of an extracted infraoccluded first mandibular molar, as well as the utilization of advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) alongside autogenous dentin grafts for bone tissue regeneration. Methods: A severely infraoccluded first permanent right mandibular molar was extracted and then ground to obtain the dentin graft. A-PRF clots (collected from the patient’s peripheral blood) were added to the autogenous dentin graft, to create the A-PRF membrane. An atraumatic extraction of the lower left third molar was performed and then it was transplanted into the socket of tooth no. 46. Immediately after transplantation, tooth no. 38 was stabilized with orthodontic bracket splints for 3 months. The patient attended regular follow-up visits within 12 months. Results: After one year, the patient did not report any pain. In the clinical examination, the tooth and surrounding tissues did not show any signs of infection. However, radiographically, cervical inflammatory resorption, unchanged pulp canal dimensions, absent root growth, periapical radiolucency, and lack of apical and marginal healing were observed. Reconstruction of the bone defect was obtained and the alveolar ridge of the mandible was preserved. Due to poor stability of the tooth and severe resorption, the tooth needed to be extracted. Conclusions: This study is designed to critically evaluate the efficacy of autotransplantation, the application of growth factors, and the integration of autogenous dentin grafts in remedying dental deficiencies resulting from reinclusion. We aim to point out the possible causes of treatment failure.
Survey on Findings and Utilization of Preoperative Chest Radiography in Ophthalmic Surgery
Authors: Kuroki Yohei , Takamori Ayako , Takahashi Koichiro , Yamamoto Soichiro , Yoshida Noriko , Enaida Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

Objective: The objective of this paper is to reconsider the significance of preoperative chest radiography (CXR) before ophthalmic surgery through investigation of imaging findings and usage status. Methods: This retrospective observational clinical study involved 1616 patients who underwent ophthalmic surgery at Saga University Hospital from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2020. The patients’ radiology reports were obtained from the electronic medical records, and their CXR findings, therapeutic interventions, and progress were investigated. Results: Among all patients, 539 (33.4%) had abnormal preoperative CXR findings. Of these patients, 74 (4.6%) had newly identified abnormal findings. In both patient groups, approximately 70% of patients with abnormal findings were aged ≥70 years, and interstitial shadows were the most common finding. Among all patients with abnormal findings, three (0.19%) received preoperative therapeutic interventions, and all surgeries were performed safely. Forty-three patients with abnormal findings were referred to our hospital or other hospitals for further investigation and treatment postoperatively. Among those patients, eight (0.5%) had primary lung cancer, seven underwent surgery, and one received chemoradiation. The other patients were also followed up and received appropriate therapeutic interventions. Conclusions: Before ophthalmic surgery, few patients required actual therapeutic interventions based on their CXR results. However, many abnormal findings were revealed in elderly patients, including some serious diseases. Furthermore, research has suggested that appropriate therapeutic intervention after ophthalmologic surgery may reduce the risk of a poor life prognosis. This study clearly shows that preoperative CXR is not only useful for perioperative systemic management but also ultimately benefits patients. It is also considered particularly meaningful for patients aged ≥70 years.
Variations in Cortical Oxygenation by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy According to Head Position after Acute Stroke: The Preliminary Findings of an Observational Study
Authors: Casetta Ilaria , Crepaldi Anna , Laudisi Michele , Baroni Andrea , Gemignani Jessica , Straudi Sofia , Manfredini Fabio , Lamberti Nicola
Published: July 2024

Background: After ischemic stroke, there is no general consensus on the optimal position for the head of patients in the acute phase. This observational study aimed to measure the variations in cortical oxygenation using noninvasive functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) at different degrees of head positioning on a bed. Methods: Consecutive ischemic stroke patients aged 18 years or older with anterior circulation ischemic stroke within 48 h of symptom onset who could safely assume different positions on a bed were included. A 48-channel fNIRS system was placed in the bilateral sensorimotor cortex. Then, the bed of each patient was moved into four consecutive positions: (1) seated (90° angle between the head and bed surface); (2) lying at 30°; (3) seated again (90°); and (4) lying flat (0°). Each position was maintained for 90 s; the test was conducted 48 h after stroke onset and after 5 ± 1 days. The variations in oxygenated hemoglobin in the global brain surface and for each hemisphere were recorded and compared. Results: Twenty-one patients were included (males, n = 11; age, 79 ± 9 years; ASPECTS, 8 ± 2). When evaluating the affected side, the median oxygenation was significantly greater in the lying-flat (0°) and 30° positions than in the 90° position (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). No significant differences between the supine position and the 30° position were found, although oxygenation was slightly lower in the 30° position than in the supine position (p = 0.063). No differences were observed when comparing recanalized and nonrecanalized patients separately or according to stroke severity. The evaluation conducted 5 days after the stroke confirmed the previous data, with a significant difference in oxygenation at 0° and 30° compared to 90°. Conclusions: This preliminary study suggested that there are no substantial differences in brain oxygenation between the lying-flat head position and the 30° laying position.
Development of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism Markers and Population Genetic Analysis of the Hadal Amphipod Alicella gigantea across the Mariana and New Britain Trenches
Authors: Chen Lei , Jiang Shouwen , Pan Binbin , Xu Qianghua
Published: July 2024

Alicella gigantea, the largest amphipod scavengers found to date, play key roles in the food web of the hadal ecosystem. However, the genetic structure of A. gigantea populations among different trenches has not been reported yet. In this study, SNP (single-nucleotide polymorphism) markers were developed for three A. gigantea geographic populations collected from the southern Mariana Trench (SMT), the central New Britain Trench (CNBT), and the eastern New Britain Trench (ENBT), based on the SLAF-seq (specific locus amplified fragment sequencing) technology. A total of 570,168 filtered SNPs were screened out for subsequent population genetic analysis. Results showed that the inbreeding levels across the three geographic populations were relatively low, and the genomic inbreeding coefficients of the three populations were similar in magnitude. Based on the results of phylogenetic analysis, population structure analysis, and principal component analysis, it is believed that the three A. gigantea geographic populations belong to the same population, and the kinship relationship between the ENBT and CNBT populations is close. Moreover, the differential candidate adaptive sites on the SNPs suggest that there may be variations in metabolic rates among the three geographic populations, possibly linked to differences in food availability and sources in different trenches, ultimately resulting in different survival strategies in A. gigantea populations within distinct trenches. Compared with the Mariana Trench, the New Britain Trench has a richer organic matter input, and it is speculated that the A. gigantea Mariana Trench population may adopt a lower metabolic rate to cope with the harsher environment of nutrient deficiency.
Reinforcement Learning-Based Control Sequence Optimization for Advanced Reactors
Authors: Nguyen Khang H. N. , Rivas Andy , Delipei Gregory Kyriakos , Hou Jason
Published: July 2024

The last decade has seen the development and application of data-driven methods taking off in nuclear engineering research, aiming to improve the safety and reliability of nuclear power. This work focuses on developing a reinforcement learning-based control sequence optimization framework for advanced nuclear systems, which not only aims to enhance flexible operations, promoting the economics of advanced nuclear technology, but also prioritizing safety during normal operation. At its core, the framework allows the sequence of operational actions to be learned and optimized by an agent to facilitate smooth transitions between the modes of operations (i.e., load-following), while ensuring that all safety significant system parameters remain within their respective limits. To generate dynamic system responses, facilitate control strategy development, and demonstrate the effectiveness of the framework, a simulation environment of a pebble-bed high-temperature gas-cooled reactor was utilized. The soft actor-critic algorithm was adopted to train a reinforcement learning agent, which can generate control sequences to maneuver plant power output in the range between 100% and 50% of the nameplate power through sufficient training. It was shown in the performance validation that the agent successfully generated control actions that maintained electrical output within a tight tolerance of 0.5% from the demand while satisfying all safety constraints. During the mode transition, the agent can maintain the reactor outlet temperature within ±1.5 °C and steam pressure within 0.1 MPa of their setpoints, respectively, by dynamically adjusting control rod positions, control valve openings, and pump speeds. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the optimization framework and the feasibility of reinforcement learning in designing control strategies for advanced reactor systems.
Trastuzumab-Induced Organising Pneumonia in Breast Cancer Patient
Authors: Dixit Sapna , Bajpai Jyoti , Kant Surya , Verma Ajay Kumar , Prakash Puneet
Published: July 2024

Patients with metastatic breast cancer often have respiratory symptoms due to various causes. Trastuzumab is a drug used in the treatment of HER2/neu over-expressing breast cancer patients. Organising pneumonia is a type of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia that mimics infection or progressive disease and can be difficult to diagnose in the setting of malignancy. Making a correct diagnosis is of extreme importance since any delay in the treatment can result in significant adverse patient outcome. Here, we have described a case of organising pneumonia associated with the use of trastuzumab in metastatic breast cancer patients. On the basis of clinical data, including findings such as a decreased PaO2 level and findings on chest CT scan, these patients were diagnosed with drug-induced organising pneumonia. Although it is a rare adverse event associated with trastuzumab, it may cause rapid deterioration without preceding symptoms; hence, even though it is very rare, with an incidence of less than 2%, it is still crucial to intervene so as to prevent the occurrence of such an unfavourable outcome by means of close observation and early diagnosis along with an early withdrawal of the drug and an immediate commencement of corticosteroid therapy.
Advanced Statistical Analysis of the Predicted Volatility Levels in Crypto Markets
Authors: Azhmyakov Vadim , Shirokov Ilya , Guzman Trujillo Luz
Published: July 2024

Our paper deals with an advanced statistical tool for the volatility prediction problem in financial (crypto) markets. First, we consider the conventional GARCH-based volatility models. Next, we extend the corresponding GARCH-based forecasting and calculate a specific probability associated with the predicted volatility levels. As the probability evaluation is based on a stochastic model, we develop an advanced data-driven estimation of this probability. The novel statistical estimation we propose uses real market data. The obtained analytical results for the statistical probability of the levels are also discussed in the framework of the integrated volatility concept. The possible application of the established probability estimation approach to the volatility clustering problem is also mentioned. Our paper includes a concrete implementation of the proposed volatility prediction tool and considers a novel trading and volatility estimation module for crypto markets recently developed by the 1ex Trading Board group in collaboration with GoldenGate Venture. We also briefly discuss the possible application of a model combined with the data-driven volatility prediction methodology to financial risk management.
Characteristics of an Inorganic Carbon Sink Influenced by Agricultural Activities in the Karst Peak Cluster Depression of Southern China (Guancun)
Authors: Zhang Ning , Xiao Qiong , Guo Yongli , Sun Pingan , Miao Ying , Chen Fajia , Zhang Cheng
Published: July 2024

Land use in karst areas affects soil properties, impacting carbon sinks. Accurate estimation of carbon sink flux in karst areas through zoning and classification is crucial for understanding global carbon cycling and climate change. The peak cluster depression is the largest continuous karst landform region in southern China, with the depressions primarily covered by farmland and influenced by agricultural activities. This study focused on the Guancun Underground River Basin, a typical peak cluster depression basin, where sampling and analysis were conducted during the agricultural period of 2021–2022. Using hydrochemical analysis and isotopic methods, the results indicated that: (1) The primary hydrochemical type in the Guancun Underground River Basin is HCO3-Ca, with hydrochemical composition mainly controlled by carbonate rock weathering. (2) The primary sources of Cl−, SO42−, and NO3− are agricultural activities, with agriculture contributing 0.68 mmol/L to dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), accounting for about 13.86%, as confirmed by ion concentration analysis and isotope verification. (3) The size of the depression area is proportional to the contribution of agricultural activities to DIC, while also being influenced by dilution effects. A comparison was made regarding the contribution of other land use types to DIC. The impact of land use on DIC in karst processes should not be overlooked, and zoning and classification assessments of carbon sink flux under different influencing factors contribute to carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals.
A Spatio-Temporal Examination of Land Use and Land Cover Changes in Smart Cities of the Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor
Authors: Kanchan Arun , Nitivattananon Vilas , Tripathi Nitin K. , Winijkul Ekbordin , Mandadi Ranadheer Reddy
Published: July 2024

This study provides a detailed analysis of land use and land cover (LULC) changes at the district level within the Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) from 2001 to 2021. Using the Indian Meteorological Department’s sub-divisional framework and MODIS data across seven primary LULC classes, the analysis is instrumental in informing infrastructure planning for existing and future smart cities and industrial clusters within the DMIC. The key findings reveal a yearly increase of 3031.40 sq. km. per year in agricultural land, with decreases in shrubland, grassland, and bareland of −1774.72 sq. km. per year, −1119.62 sq. km. per year, and −203.76 sq. km. per year, respectively. On the other hand, forests grew by a modest 148.14 sq. km. per year, while waterbodies and built-up lands saw minor increases of 55.73 sq. km. and 21.48 sq. km. per year. Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) were evaluated for LULC changes. The smart cities of Pune and Thane serve as excellent examples of balanced urban development and natural growth management. However, the study also highlights the need for further research to investigate LULC impacts on climatic variables, advocating for a regional planning approach in the DMIC.
Water-Nutrient Coupling Strategies That Improve the Carbon, Nitrogen Metabolism, and Yield of Cucumber under Sandy Cultivated Land
Authors: Ma Xinchao , Tan Zhanming , Cheng Yunxia , Wang Tingting , Cao Man , Xuan Zhengying , Du Hongbin
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to explore the carbon and nitrogen metabolism mechanisms of sand-cultivated cucumbers under different deficit irrigation–nitrogen management strategies and provide a theoretical basis for their greenhouse management. This study set up two factors, the deficit irrigation level and the nitrogen application rate, and conducted an experiment on deficit irrigation–nitrogen coupling of sand-cultivated cucumbers using a quadratic saturation D–optimal design. Seven treatments were set up in the experiment, to measure the soluble sugar and protein contents, as well as the activity of key enzymes for carbon and nitrogen metabolism at five different growth stages. The results indicate that the 80% irrigation with 623 kg N hm−2 (IN4) treatment significantly improved the soluble sugar, protein, and actual leaf nitrogen contents of cucumber at the five different growth stages and, as a result, achieved higher sucrose synthase (SS) and sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS) activities in the cucumber leaves. Furthermore, such improvements were due to the reduction in oxidative damage of sand–cultivated cucumber at various growth stages. The IN4 and 89% irrigation with 1250 kg N hm−2 (IN5) treatments significantly increased the activities of RuBisCO, catalase (CAT), peroxidise (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) at various growth stages of sand-cultivated cucumber. The higher activities of glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH), glutamate synthase (GOGAT), nitrate reductase (NR), glutamine synthase (GS), acid invertase enzyme (AIE), neutral invertase enzyme (NIE), and better antioxidative enzyme activities were recorded under the IN4 treatments at various growth stages, which effectively improve (69.6%) cucumber yield. The soil properties, carbon and nitrogen metabolism, and antioxidant metabolism were positively correlated with sand-cultivated cucumber yield in a greenhouse. We concluded that the IN4 treatment was the better deficit irrigation–nitrogen management strategy because it considerably improves carbon and nitrogen metabolism, antioxidant enzyme activities, and sand–cultivated cucumber yield in a greenhouse.
Has the Digital Economy Improved the Urban Land Green Use Efficiency? Evidence from the National Big Data Comprehensive Pilot Zone Policy
Authors: Zhou Guangya , Xu Helian , Jiang Chuanzeng , Deng Shiqi , Chen Liming , Zhang Zhi
Published: July 2024

The advancement of the big data industry is playing a pivotal role in urban land management refinement. Recently, China initiated a big data strategy, establishing national big data comprehensive pilot zones (NBDCPZs) across diverse regions. These initiatives present substantial opportunities for enhancing the urban land green use efficiency (ULGUE). Consequently, in this study, we utilized the super-efficiency slack-based measure (SBM) model with undesirable outputs to assess the ULGUEs across 281 prefecture-level cities in China from 2006 to 2021. Subsequently, leveraging the NBDCPZ establishment as a quasi-natural experiment, we employed the difference-in-differences (DID) method to empirically explore the impact of the NBDCPZ policy on the ULGUE for the first time. The findings revealed the following: (1) The implementation of the NBDCPZ policy significantly enhances the ULGUE; (2) the effects are mediated through mechanisms such as fostering technological innovation, mitigating resource misallocation, and promoting industrial agglomeration; (3) the heterogeneity analysis emphasizes the increased policy effectiveness in cities characterized by fewer natural resources, lower economic growth pressures, stable development stages, and moderate digital infrastructure and human capital levels; and (4) further analysis demonstrates the significant positive spillover effects of the NBDCPZ policy on the ULGUEs of neighboring non-pilot cities, with a diminishing impact as the proximity between pilot and non-pilot cities decreases. Overall, this study contributes to the literature on the relationship between the digital economy and land utilization, offering valuable insights for achieving sustainable urban development.
The Disenfranchisement of Practitioners and the Public Sector in Innovative Urban Farming in Sub-Saharan Africa: Insights from Nigeria
Authors: Benjamin Emmanuel O. , Adegoke Abiola , Buchenrieder Gertrud R.
Published: July 2024

Innovative urban farming is crucial for enhancing food security, nutrition, livelihood resilience, and environmental sustainability in Sub-Saharan African cities. However, agricultural policies and extension services often overlook urban contexts, presumably due to resource constraints. Yet, to improve productivity, understanding the challenges and opportunities of innovative urban farming is essential. Exploratory qualitative research, including focus group discussions, was conducted in, Lagos, Nigeria, to gather insights from stakeholders. The analysis, using mind maps and a consensus index, compared the perspectives of private urban farmers and public sector representatives. The urban farmers recognize the potential of circular agri-food technologies, like hydroponics, aquaponics, recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), drip irrigation, sack farming, and waste upcycling, to boost productivity. However, the urban farmers perceive a lack of public sector support for these innovations. The public sector representatives see the problem as urban farmers’ behavioral and educational shortcomings, particularly their lack of coordination and commitment to adopting innovations. These differing views highlight the complex dynamics between urban farmers and local agricultural policymakers. This study emphasizes the need for structural changes and local-level stakeholder dialogues for developing effective urban farming policies in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Spatiotemporal Characteristics and Interactive Effect between Urbanization and Sustainable Urban Development: Evidence from Yangtze River Delta
Authors: Liu Mengning , Liu Chao , Yang Qingke , Zhao Jinli
Published: July 2024

Complex dynamic interactions exist between urbanization and sustainable urban development, and clarifying the collaborative relationship and interactive response mechanism between the two systems is key to ensuring high-quality urban development. Taking Yangtze River Delta as a typical case, dynamic coordinated and interactive response relationships between urbanization and sustainable urban development were measured using a multi-index comprehensive evaluation method, grey correlation analysis, and panel-data vector autoregressive (PVAR) model. The results indicate that: (a) a high urbanization level and significant polarization characteristics of regional central cities alongside low economic development in more peripheral cities and insufficient attraction to factors including population, capital, and technology, which widens their development gap with regional central cities; (b) a significant increasing trend in sustainable urban development, coupled with a spatiotemporal evolution trend of urbanization; (c) bidirectional Granger causal relationship between urbanization and sustainable urban development, with the PVAR model results indicating a positive interactive response relationship, which has certain path-dependent characteristics and an inertial development trend; and (d) in the long run, urbanization has a greater impact on changes in sustainable urban development than vice versa.
Impact of Free Trade (Pilot) Zone Establishment on Urban Land Use Efficiency—Empirical Evidence from Cities in China
Authors: Xia Siwen , Han Jiaying , Li Anglu , Ye Penghao , Zhang Huarong
Published: July 2024

The establishment of the Free Trade (Pilot) Zone (FTZ) is a new attempt by China to embark on modern sustainable urban planning and governmental territorial management at the development stage of a high-quality economy. As urban lands serve as the limited resource foundation for civic production and livelihoods, enhancing land use efficiency becomes a key measure to facilitate metropolitan economies of high quality. Utilizing panel data from prefecture-level cities spanning from 2005 to 2021, this study constructs a multi-period difference-in-differences model to explore the impact of FTZs on urban land use efficiency (ULUE). The results indicate that FTZs can significantly enhance urban land use efficiency, with a more pronounced policy effect observed in central cities, inland cities, and cities with higher urbanization rates. Furthermore, the FTZs also demonstrate spatial spillover effects on urban land use efficiency. This study holds great significance for relevant government departments in formulating policies to optimize land resource allocation, promote FTZ development, and foster high-quality urban planning and territorial management.
Soil Quality Assessment and Its Spatial Variability in an Intensively Cultivated Area in India
Authors: Ellur Rajath , Ankappa Ananthakumar Maddur , Dharumarajan Subramanian , Puttavenkategowda Thimmegowda , Nanjundegowda Thimmegowda Matadadoddi , Sannegowda Prakash Salekoppal , Pratap Mishra Arun , Đurin Bojan , Dogančić Dragana
Published: July 2024

Intensive agricultural practices lead to a deterioration in soil quality, causing a decline in farm productivity and quality, and disturbing the ecosystem balance in command areas. To achieve sustainable production and implement effective soil management strategies, understanding the state and spatial variability of soil quality is essential. The study aims to enhance the understanding of soil quality variability and provide actionable insights for sustainable soil management. In this regard, principal component analysis (PCA) and digital soil mapping were used to assess and map the spatial variability of the soil quality index (SQI) in the Cauvery command area, Mandya district, Karnataka, India. A total of 145 georeferenced soil samples were drawn at 0–15 cm depth and analyzed for physico-chemical properties. PCA was used to reduce the dataset into a minimum dataset as eight important soil indicators and to determine relative weightage factors, which were used for assessing SQI with linear and non-linear scoring methods. For spatial assessment of SQI, the random forest algorithm with environmental covariates was used to map eight soil indicators selected in the minimum dataset. The soil property maps were subjected to linear and non-linear scoring, followed by multiplying with corresponding weightage factors and summation to produce SQI maps. Results reveal that values of SQI calculated using linear scoring, range from 0.10 to 0.64, with a mean of 0.39, while non-linear scoring exhibits a wider range of 0.12 to 0.78 and a mean of 0.48. With a slight higher sensitivity index of 6.5, non-linear scoring proved to be the better scoring method compared to linear scoring. Spatial assessment shows that the R2 and LCC between the calculated and predicted SQI were higher for non-linear scoring (0.66 and 0.66) compared to linear scoring (0.60 and 0.65). The SQI maps reveal high spatial variability with more than 40 percent of soils classified as moderate-to-low index. The soils with low SQI were distributed in eastern parts, whereas western parts exhibited high-to-very-high soil quality. To achieve production goals and improve soil quality in the eastern region, sustainable soil and crop management strategies must be developed, and their effects on soil quality should be assessed.
Spatial–Temporal Evolution and Driving Factors of Industrial Land Marketization in Chengdu–Chongqing Economic Circle
Authors: Chen Xiaoyi , Wang Hengwei
Published: July 2024

Industrial land is essential for supply-side structural reforms, particularly in the Chengdu–Chongqing area, Western China’s most densely populated and industrially robust region. This area, a pivotal hub linking Southwest China with South Asia and Southeast Asia, is critical for the national strategic layout and regional economic restructuring. Despite its substantial industrial foundation as an old industrial base, internal developmental stagnation has led to an irrational industrial land use structure. This paper analyzed land transaction data from the China Land Market Network (2010–2021) using methods such as kernel density estimation, the standard deviation ellipse method, and Global Moran’s I index. The analysis focuses on the spatiotemporal evolution of industrial land marketization and its driving factors in 44 cities within the Chengdu–Chongqing economic circle. The findings aim to enhance the strategic implementation of national policies and regional economic optimization, suggesting intensified development efforts in key cities and promoting integrated growth in potential areas like Suining and Ziyang to foster a conducive environment for high-quality regional development.
Urban Transformation in Muslim Neighborhoods: From Shanghai’s Women’s Mosque into a Retirement Home
Authors: Liu Xunqian , Liu Xiaoqing , Yang Yi
Published: July 2024

Since the mid-19th century, the migration of Hui Muslims to Shanghai has fostered the development of stable residential neighborhoods around the Small Peach Garden Mosque, turning the area into a hub for religious gatherings and a bustling economic center, especially for the beef, mutton, and catering sectors. However, the dawn of the 21st century brought with it swift economic expansion and urban redevelopment, gradually replacing the neighborhoods surrounding the mosque with high-end residential zones. Soaring land prices slashed the profits of Muslim food businesses in the area to the point of unsustainability, disrupting the traditional pattern of life around the mosque. This study offers insights from interviews with older Muslim women who stayed at the Small Peach Garden Women’s Mosque after its demolition, slowly transforming it into a retirement home. Their stories underline that architectural conservation alone is not sufficient to preserve the character of historic and cultural sites. The study calls for a deeper understanding of urban transformations in historic urban landscapes for religious minorities.
Metalinguistic Discourse in an Emerging Sign Language
Authors: German Austin
Published: July 2024

In this paper, I explore metalinguistic discourse in Zinacantec Family Homesign (‘Z sign’), an emergent sign language developed by three deaf siblings and their hearing family members. In particular, I examine how metalinguistic discourse unfolds between a hearing Z signer and various members of her family—including her deaf siblings, her elderly hearing father, and her young hearing son. I do so via a close examination of several snippets of conversation in which the Z signers talk about the “right” way to sign, paying close attention to how they mobilize various semiotic devices, including manual signs, eye gaze, facial expressions, and speech. I aim to understand not only the formal components of metalinguistic discourse in Z sign but also how it functions as a form of social action in this small linguistic community. How do members of this family position themselves and others as (in)competent, (non-)authoritative signers in light of existing social divisions among them? How do they reinforce or challenge those social divisions through metalinguistic discourse? How might metalinguistic discourse contribute to the propagation of emergent linguistic norms throughout the family? I find that a recurrent device for enacting metalinguistic critique among the Z signers is the partial re-production and transformation of others’ utterances and other visible actions, manifested in a way that exploits the availability of multiple, semi-independent manual and non-manual articulators in the visual modality.
Analysis of a Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability Model in the Rat: Conclusions and Suggestions for Future Research
Authors: Saliba Ibrahim , Bachy-Razzouk Manon , Bensidhoum Morad , Hoc Thierry , Potier Esther , Vialle Raphaël , Hardy Alexandre
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate potential osteoarthritic alterations within the ankle using a surgically-induced chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI) model. Twelve rats were assigned randomly to either the control (n = 4) or CLAI group (n = 8). Surgery was performed on the right ankle. Osteoarthritis was assessed through in-vivo micro-CT at 8 weeks and a clinical analysis. Macroscopic analysis, high-resolution ex-vivo micro-CT and histological examination were conducted after euthanasia at 12 weeks. Three subgroups (SG) were analyzed. SG1 comprised the operated ankles of the CLAI group (n = 8). SG2 consisted of the non-operated ankles of the CLAI group (n = 8). SG3 included both sides of the control group (n = 8). In-vivo micro-CT revealed no significant differences among the three subgroups when analyzed together (p = 0.42), and when comparing SG1 with SG2 (p = 0.23) and SG3 (p = 0.43) individually. No noticeable clinical differences were observed. After euthanasia, macroscopic analysis employing OARSI score, did not demonstrate significant differences, except between the medial tibia of SG1 and SG3 (p = 0.03), and in the total score comparison between these two subgroups (p = 0.015). Ex-vivo micro-CT did not reveal any differences between the three subgroups regarding bony irregularities and BV/TV measurements (SG1 vs. SG2 vs. SG3: p = 0.72; SG1 vs. SG2: p = 0.80; SG1 vs. SG3: p = 0.72). Finally, there was no difference between the three subgroups regarding OARSI histologic score (p = 0.27). These findings indicate that the current model failed to induce significant osteoarthritis. However, they lay the groundwork for improving the model’s effectiveness and expanding its use in CLAI research, aiming to enhance understanding of this pathology and reduce unnecessary animal sacrifice.
Comprehensive Evaluation of a Levonorgestrel Intrauterine Device (LNG-IUD), Metformin, and Liraglutide for Fertility Preservation in Endometrial Cancer: Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Leipold Gergő , Tóth Richárd , Hársfalvi Péter , Lőczi Lotti , Török Marianna , Keszthelyi Attila , Ács Nándor , Lintner Balázs , Várbíró Szabolcs , Keszthelyi Márton
Published: July 2024

Endometrial cancer is a leading gynecological malignancy, with obesity being a significant risk factor due to increased estrogen production in body fat. Current treatments often involve hysterectomy, which precludes fertility, thus highlighting the need for fertility-preserving options. This study aims to evaluate the combined efficacy of a levonorgestrel intrauterine device (LNG-IUD), metformin, and liraglutide for treating women with endometrial hyperplasia or early stage endometrial cancer while preserving fertility. The study will enroll 264 women aged 18–45 with a BMI > 30 who desire uterine preservation. Participants will be randomized into three groups: LNG-IUD alone, LNG-IUD plus metformin, and LNG-IUD plus metformin and liraglutide. Primary outcomes will include complete pathological remission, while secondary outcomes will assess histological changes, glucose, insulin levels, and weight changes over a 12-month period. This study protocol hypothesizes that LNG-IUD combined with metformin and liraglutide may potentially lead to higher regression rates of endometrial hyperplasia (EH) and early stage endometrial cancer (EC) compared to LNG-IUD alone. Furthermore, the protocol anticipates that these combination therapies will demonstrate good tolerability with minimal adverse effects, suggesting the potential benefit of integrating metabolic interventions with LNG-IUD to enhance treatment efficacy while preserving fertility in women with EH and EC.
Agreement between Ultra-Short-Term and Standard Heart Rate Variability Analysis in Resting and Post-Exercise Conditions
Authors: Jin Kai , Guo Zhenxiang , Qiao Zining , Liu Meng , Yang Yi , Xu Changnan
Published: July 2024

Background: Short-term (5 min) heart rate variability (HRV) analysis is widely used in assessing autonomic nervous system activity during exercise. While shortening the HRV measurement duration can help improve its application efficiency, its accuracy needs to be verified. This study investigated the agreement between ultra-short-term (UST) HRV (3 or 4 min) and standard 5 min HRV and explored the optimal recording duration under resting and post-exercise conditions. Methods: Fourteen participants exercised on a cycle ergometer at 60% of their maximum peak power. Data were collected during the rest condition (Pre-E) and three post-exercise conditions (Post-E1, Post-E2, and Post-E3), with indicators of the standard deviation (SDNN) of the ultra-short and short-term RR intervals and the root mean square (RMSSD) of the continuous difference between RR intervals. Repeated measures ANOVA, Cohen’s d statistic, Bland–Altman analysis, and interclass correlation coefficients (ICC) assessed the agreement between UST-HRV and ST-HRV. Results: The consistency results of SDNN and RMSSD in resting and post-exercise were different. At the Pre-E, Post-E2, and Post-E3 phases, no statistical differences for SDNN and RMSSD were observed, with ICCs surpassing 0.9, indicating a high level of agreement. However, at Post-E2, there was a significant difference between 3 min RMSSD and 5 min RMSSD (p < 0.05), as well as between 3 min SDNN, 4 min SDNN, and 5 min SDNN (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the limits of agreement were observed to decrease as the time duration increased in Bland–Altman plots. Conclusions: UST-HRV analysis is a reliable substitute for standard 5 min HRV assessment, particularly during resting conditions. For post-exercise measurements, assessing the appropriateness of a 3- or 4 min duration based on the exercise’s length is recommended to ensure accuracy and reliability.
The Morphology of the Femur Influences the Fracture Risk during Stumbling and Falls on the Hip—A Computational Biomechanical Study
Authors: Sass Jan-Oliver , Saemann Michael , Kebbach Maeruan , Soodmand Ehsan , Wree Andreas , Bader Rainer , Kluess Daniel
Published: July 2024

Proximal femur fracture risk depends on subject-specific factors such as bone mineral density and morphological parameters. Here, we aim to analyze the dependency of the femoral strength on sixteen morphological parameters. Therefore, finite-element analyses of 20 human femurs during stumbling and lateral falls on the hip were conducted. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated and morphological parameters with significant correlations were examined in principal component analysis and linear regression analysis. The dependency of the fracture strength on morphological parameters was more pronounced during lateral falls on the hip compared to stumbling. Significant correlations were observed between the neck shaft angle (r = −0.474), neck diameter (r = 0.507), the true distance between the femoral head center and femoral shaft axis (r = 0.459), and its projected distance on the frontal plane (r = 0.511), greater trochanter height (r = 0.497), and distance between the femoral head center and a plane parallel to the frontal plane containing the projection of the femoral head center to the femoral neck axis (r = 0.669). Principal component analysis was strongly weighted by parameters defining the lever arm during a lateral fall as well as the loaded cross-section in the femoral neck.
(Z)-N-Carbamoyl-4-hydroxy-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-oxobut-3-enamide
Authors: Derevnina Alexandra O. , Andreeva Anastasia A. , Maslivets Andrey N.
Published: July 2024

The reaction of 5-(4-methoxyphenyl)furan-2,3-dione with urea in a 1:1 ratio when refluxed in a mixture of 1,2-dichloroethane-DMSO gives (Z)-N-carbamoyl-4-hydroxy-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-oxobut-3-enamide in a good yield. This compound was fully characterized.
From Dataset Creation to Defect Detection: A Proposed Procedure for a Custom CNN Approach for Polishing Applications on Low-Performance PCs
Authors: Bajrami Albin , Palpacelli Matteo Claudio
Published: July 2024

This study focuses on training a custom, small Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) using a limited dataset through data augmentation that is aimed at developing weights for subsequent fine-tuning on specific defects, namely improperly polished aluminum surfaces. The objective is to adapt the network for use in computationally restricted environments. The methodology involves using two computers—a low-performance PC for network creation and initial testing and a more powerful PC for network training using the Darknet framework—after which the network is transferred back to the initial low-performance PC. The results demonstrate that the custom lightweight network suited for a low-performance PC effectively performs object detection under the described conditions. These findings suggest that using tailored lightweight networks for recognizing specific types of defects is feasible and warrants further investigation to enhance the industrial defect detection processes in limited computational settings. This approach highlights the potential for deploying AI-driven quality control in environments with constrained hardware capabilities.
Asymmetrical Four-Phase 8/6 Switched Reluctance Motor for a Wide Constant Power Region
Authors: Mihić Dragan S. , Brkovic Bogdan M. , Terzic Mladen V.
Published: July 2024

In this paper, the methodology for designing an asymmetrical four-phase 8/6 switched reluctance motor (SRM) that achieves approximately constant output power over a wide speed range is described. In an asymmetrical 8/6 SRM, orthogonal phase pairs are different in terms of the pole width and number of turns. The main comparison criterion between the asymmetrical and symmetrical 8/6 SRM is the power-speed characteristic, obtained for a given rated RMS phase current of the symmetrical drive. The obtained results demonstrate that the asymmetrical 8/6 SRM allows the shape of the power-speed characteristic to be modified, thereby extending the constant power region well beyond that of the symmetrical configuration with the same rated power level. To make a fair comparison between the asymmetrical and symmetrical 8/6 SRM drives, the converter volt-ampere rating, machine volume, slot fill factor, and ohmic losses per phase are kept constant in all analyzed cases. For determination of the optimal control parameters and maximal drive performance for both designs, the appropriate SRM mathematical model and differential evolution algorithm are used. The applied model includes all substantial non-linearities and mutual coupling between phases. The simulation results are verified using a Finite Element Method (FEM)-based model in the Ansys Electronics 2020 R2 software package.
Evolution of Tax Exemption Policy and Pricing Strategy Selection in a Competitive Market
Authors: Yang Xia , Yang Hui , Huang Hongfu , Song Kui
Published: July 2024

The evolution of tax exemption policies and consumer preferences for low-carbon products affect firms’ optimal pricing strategy selection in a competitive duopoly market. In our study, we build a two-period pricing model to examine the pricing strategy choices between low-carbon and traditional firms. Low-carbon firms offer consumers greater value, improving their overall experience and satisfaction. Given the evolution of government policies from tax exemption to taxation for low-carbon products, we divide the changes in carbon tax into two periods. Since each firm can choose either the uniform pricing strategy (setting the same price in both periods) or the tiered pricing strategy (setting different prices for two periods), four scenarios may occur. Conventional wisdom suggests that a firm’s pricing increases should result in a reduction in consumer demand. Interestingly, our results show that as traditional firm raises prices, consumer demand for traditional products could increase simultaneously in the second period. In such a case, the low-carbon firm selects the uniform pricing strategy and the traditional firm chooses the tiered pricing strategy. Moreover, as tax exemption policies evolve in duopoly markets, the cancellation of the tax exemption policy may intensify competition between traditional and low-carbon firms under certain conditions. Furthermore, given one firm’s pricing strategy, our results show that the other firm could adopt either a uniform pricing strategy or a tiered pricing strategy, which depends on the low-carbon advantage and tax rate.
Modeling Risk Sharing and Impact on Systemic Risk
Authors: Farkas Walter , Lucescu Patrick
Published: July 2024

This paper develops a simplified agent-based model to investigate the dynamics of risk transfer and its implications for systemic risk within financial networks, focusing specifically on credit default swaps (CDSs) as instruments of risk allocation among banks and firms. Unlike broader models that incorporate multiple types of economic agents, our approach explicitly targets the interactions between banks and firms across three markets: credit, interbank loans, and CDSs. This model diverges from the frameworks established by prior researchers by simplifying the agent structure, which allows for more focused calibration to empirical data—specifically, a sample of Swiss banks—and enhances interpretability for regulatory use. Our analysis centers around two control variables, CDSc and CDSn, which control the likelihood of institutions participating in covered and naked CDS transactions, respectively. This approach allows us to explore the network’s behavior under varying levels of interconnectedness and differing magnitudes of deposit shocks. Our results indicate that the network can withstand minor shocks, but higher levels of CDS engagement significantly increase variance and kurtosis in equity returns, signaling heightened instability. This effect is amplified during severe shocks, suggesting that CDSs, instead of mitigating risk, propagate systemic risk, particularly in highly interconnected networks. These findings underscore the need for regulatory oversight to manage risk concentration and ensure financial stability.