bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Penny-Wise Acumen in Costonomics: Transforming Costs into Entrepreneurial Gold Through Smart Financial Management
Authors: Lulaj Enkeleda
Published: January 2025

This research demonstrates that penny-wise acumen in costonomics can lead to significant financial gains, transforming costs into entrepreneurial gold for enterprises. The study aims to explore how effective financial management, through the application of cost management factors, can convert costs into entrepreneurial opportunities and drive long-term business sustainability. The research utilized exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA and CFA), along with reliability analysis (Cronbach’s alpha), employing SPSS and AMOS software to examine the relationships between critical cost management factors. The findings reveal strong correlations among these factors, each playing a vital role in optimizing cost efficiency and enhancing business performance. Cost Management Effectiveness (CME) emphasizes clear cost structures, supplier evaluations, and overall cost control. Strategic Cost Management (SCM) focuses on identifying cost drivers and benchmarking against industry standards to uncover cost reduction opportunities. Cost Optimization Mastery (COM) involves monitoring production costs and assessing cost quality to ensure financial stability, while Cost Management Policy (CMP) stresses the importance of robust policies and employee engagement in controlling costs. Lastly, Cost Management Vigilance (CMV) highlights the need for the active monitoring of variable and overhead costs to maintain financial discipline. This research underscores that businesses in the manufacturing, hospitality, and commercial sectors can successfully leverage these cost management practices to foster competitive entrepreneurship and sustainable growth. Future studies should explore the role of emerging technologies in cost management to uncover new strategies for profitability and sustainability.
Population Shrinkage and Spatio-Temporal Changes in Cultivated Land Use Efficiency in China’s Agro-Pastoral Ecotone
Authors: Chen Lu , Zhao Ning , Zhang Zhixun , Zhang Yun , Zuo Wenjie , Wang Youshuo , Wu Bin , Stanny Monika , Li Yuheng , Du Guoming
Published: January 2025

Revealing the level of cultivated land use efficiency and its influencing factors in the northern agro-pastoral ecotone from the perspective of population contraction can provide a decision-making reference for ensuring national food security and promoting the implementation of rural revitalization strategies. In this paper, using the stochastic frontier production function and a Tobit regression model, we reveal the current situation of rural population shrinkage in the agro-pastoral ecotone in northern China and the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of cultivated land use efficiency, and identify influencing factors based on the perspective of “human–land”. The results show the following: (1) The rural population in all provinces and counties in the agro-pastoral ecotone in northern China showed a continuous loss trend. The southwest was a hot spot area for rural population reduction, and the northeast was a cold spot area for rural population reduction. (2) During 2000–2020, the cultivated land use efficiency in the agro-pastoral ecotone in northern China showed a fluctuating upward trend, rising from 0.595 in 2000 to 0.754 in 2020. Spatially, the cultivated land use efficiency in the agro-pastoral ecotone in northern China showed the characteristic of being higher in the northeast and lower in the southwest, and the cultivated land use efficiency in some counties in the central and southwestern parts showed a downward trend. (3) The cultivated land use efficiency in the agro-pastoral ecotone in northern China is comprehensively affected by multiple factors. The following factors were determined, presented in descending order of the absolute value of influence degree: proportion of the population over 65 years old > multiple cropping index > proportion of cultivated land area > proportion of rural population > average years of education > population change rate. Based on these results, this paper puts forward measures to improve cultivated land use efficiency in the agro-pastoral ecotone in northern China from the perspective of population shrinkage, so as to provide references for ensuring national food security and promoting rural revitalization.
Evaluating the Impact of Oil Refinery on Landscape Values Perception and Mental Health: A Case Study of Tehran
Authors: Gheitasi Mahdi , Serrano Giné David , Pérez Albert Yolanda
Published: January 2025

In today’s society, stress is recognized as a major contributor to illness. It can be reduced through exercise, which lowers stress hormones, and exposure to daylight, which regulates hormones such as cortisol and melatonin. Furthermore, the design and perception of the environment can indicate danger or safety, influencing stress levels and mental health. This study examines the Tehran Oil Refinery’s impact on local residents’ perceptions of landscape values and mental health. Oil refineries, which use compounds derived from natural gas or crude oil, pose both short- and long-term environmental and health risks. Using a Geographic Information System for Public Participation (PPGIS), the study investigates how the industrial landscape surrounding the Tehran Oil Refinery influences residents’ emotional responses and stress levels. The study collects sociodemographic data, self-perceived health data, and landscape valuations before and after photography interventions. The findings indicate a complex relationship between the refinery’s presence and perceptions of landscape values. Manipulated photographs used in the study show how visual elements can influence emotional responses, highlighting a direct link between stress and environmental perception. This case study adds to larger discussions about the effects of industrialization on public mental health and the environment, emphasizing the importance of incorporating public perception into urban planning in order to achieve sustainable development.
Analysis of Spatial Distribution Pattern and Driving Factors of Nature Reserves in Xinjiang
Authors: Yang Yue , Yang Zhaoping , Han Fang
Published: January 2025

Establishing nature reserves is fundamental to promoting ecological civilization and ensuring the ecological security of sustainable development, as well as a key strategy for maintaining the integrity of the national ecosystem. In recent years, with the enhancement in environmental awareness, the role of nature reserves in maintaining ecosystem stability, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable development has become increasingly prominent. As a crucial ecological defense line in China, studying the spatial distribution and influencing factors of nature reserves in Xinjiang is vital for regional ecological protection and resource management. In this study, we focused on the nature reserves in Xinjiang and used kernel density and standard deviation ellipse analysis methods to examine data from 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020 in order to reveal the dynamics of spatial distribution, clustering characteristics, and evolutionary patterns, providing a scientific basis for optimizing the spatial layout of nature reserves in Xinjiang. We also employed a geographical detector model to assess the main influencing factors. This study shows that the number, area, and types of nature reserves in Xinjiang have rapidly increased, forming an integrated system predominantly composed of nature reserves. Their spatial distribution exhibits a northeast–southwest orientation and a ring-centered clustering pattern. This spatial differentiation is the result of the interaction between natural and human factors, manifesting as an enhanced effect among these factors.
Investigating L2 Phonological Acquisition from Different Perspectives: An Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Leung Alex Ho-Cheong , Pavlovskaya Natalia , Young-Scholten Martha
Published: January 2025

Building on the existing literature including recent Special Issues, edited volumes, and feature articles on the study of second language (L2) phonetics and phonology (e [...]
Prediction of Seven Artificial Intelligence-Based Intraocular Lens Power Calculation Formulas in Medium-Long Caucasian Eyes
Authors: Stopyra Wiktor , Voytsekhivskyy Oleksiy , Grzybowski Andrzej
Published: January 2025

Purpose: To compare the accuracy of seven artificial intelligence (AI)-based intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas in medium-long Caucasian eyes regarding the root-mean-square absolute error (RMSAE), the median absolute error (MedAE) and the percentage of eyes with a prediction error (PE) within ±0.5 D. Methods: Data on Caucasian patients who underwent uneventful phacoemulsification between May 2018 and September 2023 in MW-Med Eye Center, Krakow, Poland and Kyiv Clinical Ophthalmology Hospital Eye Microsurgery Center, Kyiv, Ukraine were reviewed. Inclusion criteria, i.e., complete biometric and refractive data, were applied. Exclusion criteria were as follows: intraoperative or postoperative complications, previous eye surgery or corneal diseases, postoperative BCVA less than 0.8, and corneal astigmatism greater than 2.0 D. Prior to phacoemulsification, IOL power was computed using SRK/T, Holladay1, Haigis, Holladay 2, and Hoffer Q. The refraction was measured three months after cataract surgery. Post-surgery intraocular lens calculations for Hill-RBF 3.0, Kane, PEARL-DGS, Ladas Super Formula AI (LSF AI), Hoffer QST, Karmona, and Nallasamy were performed. RMSAE, MedAE, and the percentage of eyes with a PE within ±0.25 D, ±0.50 D, ±0.75 D, and ±1.00 were counted. Results: Two hundred fourteen eyes with axial lengths ranging from 24.50 mm to 25.97 mm were tested. The Hill-RBF 3.0 formula yielded the lowest RMSAE (0.368), just before Pearl-DGS (0.374) and Hoffer QST (0.378). The lowest MedAE was achieved by Hill-RBF 3.0 (0.200), the second-lowest by LSF AI (0.210), and the third-lowest by Kane (0.228). The highest percentage of eyes with a PE within ±0.50 D was obtained by Hill-RBF 3.0, LSF AI, and Pearl-DGS (86.45%, 85.51%, and 85.05%, respectively). Conclusions: The Hill-RBF 3.0 formula provided highly accurate outcomes in medium-long eyes. All studied AI-based formulas yielded good results in IOL power calculation.
Flow Characteristics and Experimental Verification of T-Groove Dry Gas Seal Under Different Flow States
Authors: Zhang Lanxia , Ding Xuexing , Wang Shipeng , Zhang Shuai
Published: January 2025

With the improvement of dry gas seal efficiency in high-parameter fields, the flow pattern of gas film lubrication is complicated. Based on gas lubrication theory, the Reynolds equation of compressible gas was established with a bidirectional T-groove dry gas seal as the research object. The Reynolds equation was solved to obtain a modified turbulent film pressure distribution law that affects gas lubrication. The effectiveness of the calculation program was verified by experimental tests. The results show that with an increase in operating parameters, the turbulence effect caused the gas film pressure fluctuation in the T-groove region to intensify, resulting in gas film flow instability. In addition, the inertia effect improved, which slowed down the leakage and affected the change law of stiffness and the rigid leakage ratio. When the fluid speed and gas pressure were low, the inertia effect could be ignored. When the groove depth was increased to 8 μm, the height difference between the trough and non-T-groove region became larger due to the combination of the turbulence and inertia effects. Further, when the gas film thickness was 3 μm, the opening force and gas film stiffness were high due to the dynamic pressure effect in the small film thickness groove. An increase in the gas film thickness weakened the turbulence effect and reduced the gas film pressure fluctuation.
Analysis of Tool Wear in Finish Turning of Titanium Alloy Ti-6Al-4V Under Minimum Quantity Lubrication Conditions Observed with Recurrence Quantification Analysis
Authors: Lisowicz Joanna , Krupa Krzysztof , Leksycki Kamil , Rusinek Rafał , Wojciechowski Szymon
Published: January 2025

Titanium alloys, particularly Ti-6Al-4V, are widely used in many industries due to their high strength, low density, and corrosion resistance. However, machining these materials is challenging due to high strength at elevated temperatures, low thermal conductivity, and high chemical reactivity. This study investigates Recurrence Plot (RP) and Recurrence Quantification Analysis (RQA) to analyze tool wear during the finish turning of Ti-6Al-4V. The tests were conducted under Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL). Three inserts (two coated, one uncoated) were tested, and tool life was evaluated based on material removal volume. The issue of tool exploitation and process reliability is crucial, as it directly impacts machining performance. Results show that the uncoated insert outperformed the coated ones. RQA parameters indicated a stable-to-unstable transition in coated inserts but not in the uncoated insert. This suggests that recurrence analysis can monitor cutting dynamics in coated insert machining, but further research is needed for uncoated tools. This paper’s novelty lies in applying RP and RQA to diagnose tool wear in titanium alloy machining under MQL conditions, a method not previously explored in this context.
Binder-Less Molybdenum Doped CoO Based Integrated Electrodes Fabricated by Electric Discharge Corrosion for High-Efficiency Supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Ri , Xu Zehan , Xu Yunying , Lei Tujun , Liu Dawei , Chen Chunlong , Wang Wenxia , Zhitomirsky Igor , Qu Muchao , Zhang Guoying
Published: January 2025

Due to its low cost, natural abundance, non-toxicity, and high theoretical capacitance, cobalt oxide (CoO) stands as a promising candidate electrode material for supercapacitors. In this study, binder-less molybdenum doped CoO (Mo@CoO) integrated electrodes were one-step fabricated using a simple electric discharge corrosion (EDC) method. This EDC method enables the direct synthesis of Mo@CoO active materials with oxygen vacancy on cobalt substrates, without any pre-made templates, conductive additives, or chemicals. Most importantly, the EDC method enables precise control over the discharge processing parameter of pulse width, which facilitates tailoring the surface morphologies of the as-prepared Mo@CoO active materials. It was found that the fabricated Mo@CoO based symmetric supercapacitor prepared by a pulse width of 24 μs (Mo@CoO-SCs24) achieved a maximum areal capacitance 36.0 mF cm−2 (0.15 mA cm−2), which is 1.83 and 1.97 times higher than that of Mo@CoO-SCs12 and Mo@CoO-SCs36. Moreover, the Mo@CoO-SCs24 devices could be worked at 10 V s−1, which demonstrates their fast charge/discharge characteristic. These results demonstrated the significant potential of the EDC strategy for efficiency fabricating various metal oxide binder-less integrated electrodes for various applications, like supercapacitors, batteries and sensors.
Application of a New Thermal Model for the Determination of London Dispersive Properties of H-β-Zeolite/Rhodium Catalysts Using New 2D Chromatographic Models
Authors: Hamieh Tayssir
Published: January 2025

A new methodology based on the Hamieh thermal model was applied for the determination of the surface properties of solid surfaces. The new approach consisted of the accurate quantification of the London dispersive surface energy of materials using the two-dimensional inverse gas chromatography technique at infinite dilution. This technique used the notion of the net retention volume of adsorbed molecules on the solid catalysts, allowing the determination of the free energy of adsorption. The Hamieh thermal model proving the temperature effect on the surface area of organic molecules adsorbed on H-β-zeolite/rhodium catalysts at different rhodium percentages was used to determine the accurate values of the London dispersive surface energy of solid surfaces at different temperatures. This new method also allowed a precise evaluation of the dispersive adhesion work, dispersive surface enthalpy, and entropy of adsorption of n-alkanes adsorbed on the catalysts. In this paper, the London dispersive surface energy and adhesion work of H-β-zeolite-supported rhodium catalysts were determined using the free energy of adsorbed molecules obtained from the two-dimensional inverse gas chromatography technique at infinite dilution. It was proved that the London dispersive surface energy strongly depended on the temperature and the rhodium percentage, while the dispersive adhesion work of n-alkanes adsorbed on H-β-zeolite/rhodium catalysts was proved to be a function of the temperature, rhodium percentage, and the carbon atom number of the n-alkanes.
Slip-Resistant Connections with Hot-Dip Galvanized Faying Surface Under Freeze-Thaw Cycles and/or Low Temperature
Authors: Fuente García Alfonso , Serrano López Miguel , López-Colina Pérez Carlos , López Gayarre Fernando
Published: January 2025

In some occasions, outdoor steel structures like wind towers, bridges, winter sports facilities, and so on are subjected to extreme environmental conditions with the presence of ice and/or with below-zero temperatures. Sometimes in these situations, surface protection of the steel structure is usually designed using hot-dip galvanizing to improve its durability. In these special circumstances, the structure’s connections are also exposed to adverse climatic agents. International standards and codes such as Eurocode 3 or EN1090-2 do not provide indications for these cases. In this experimental research, 24 specimens of non-slip joints with hot-dip galvanized faying surfaces and HV M16 and M20 bolts have been studied. Twelve specimens were subjected to fourteen twelve-hour freeze-thaw cycles, with temperature oscillation and periodic immersion in water. Next, six of the connections were subjected to a slip test under monotonic load at a temperature of −20 ± 0.5 °C and the other six at room temperature. The results were compared with joints kept at room temperature and not subjected to freeze-thaw cycles for the same period of time. The main conclusion of this piece of research is that the short-term slip resistance behavior of joints with hot-dip galvanized surfaces is not reduced for the cases studied.
Alkali-Activated Permeable Concretes with Agro-Industrial Wastes for a Sustainable Built Environment
Authors: Marathe Shriram , Nieświec Martyna , Gronostajska Barbara
Published: January 2025

This research presents a proposal for alkali-activated permeable concrete composites with the use of industrial by-products, including ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) and waste-foundry sand, as well as agro-desecrate product, i.e., sugarcane bagasse ash (SBA). GGBS and SBA served as binders, with crushed granite as coarse aggregate and waste-foundry sand as fine aggregate. The novelty of this proposal is in examining the influence of SBA, in combination with slag, on the fresh- and hardened-state properties of the proposed permeable concretes. Experiments were conducted to optimize the SBA percentage based on hydraulic conductivity and compressive and tensile strength after 28 days of air curing. The hardened density, compaction factor (workability), and saturated water absorption were also measured for all the mixes. Furthermore, the control and optimal mixes were subjected to evaluate the microstructure analysis (EDX, XRD, and FESEM) after 28 days of air curing. The mix containing 100% GGBS and 0% SBA served as the reference, with the optimal 10% SBA mix (with 90% GGBS) used for comparative analysis to understand its effect on the properties of permeable composites. The results showed positive or acceptable mechanical performance at a mix ratio of 10% SBA to 90% GGBS as binders. This study aims to enhance the understanding of the engineering behavior of alkali-activated permeable composites, facilitating the rational design of permeable pavement systems through the effective use of agro-industrial waste products, thereby conserving ecosystems while meeting engineering requirements.
Mesoscale Modeling for Predicting Effective Properties and Damage Behavior of Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Shi Feiyu , Cheng Shanshan , Li Longyuan
Published: January 2025

Geopolymer concrete is a sustainable construction material and is considered as a promising alternative to traditional Portland cement concrete. However, there is still not much research on the effective properties and damage behavior of geopolymer concrete with consideration of its heterogeneous characteristics by means of mesoscale models combined with the regularized microplane damage model. Here, in this research, an easy and simpler approach for generating concrete mesoscale models and characterizing the angular characteristics of aggregate particles is presented. After the proposed mesoscale modeling was validated by numerical, experimental and theoretical models, it was employed further to predict the effective properties and damage behavior of geopolymer concrete. The obtained results show that the effective elastic modulus and compressive strength of geopolymer concrete were greatly affected by the volume fractions of aggregate, while no significant influence on Poisson’s ratio was found. The evolution of damage and coalescence of cracks were affected by the volume fractions and spatial distribution of aggregate particles, which resulted in the different failure patterns in the mesoscale model of geopolymer concrete manufactured by different volume ratios of aggregate.
Experimental Study on the Elastic Support in a Discrete Rail Fastening System Used in Ballastless Tram Track Structures
Authors: Kraśkiewicz Cezary , Urbaniak Monika , Piotrowski Andrzej
Published: January 2025

This paper presents an experimental study on the elastic support in a discrete rail fastening system used in a ballastless tram track structure. The study focuses on the elastic support of the anchor element, specifically the Pm49 baseplate. These elements significantly influence environmental pollution along tram routes, such as vibration (at low frequencies) or noise (at high frequencies), as well as static and dynamic rail deflections. The authors outline a methodology for identifying the static and dynamic characteristics of the discrete elastic support in laboratory conditions. The procedure follows the European standard EN 13146-9 for track category A (tramway), as classified according to the European standard EN 13481-5. The study analyzes how the thickness and density of the tested materials affect stiffness. Additionally, it examines the correlation between parameters identified easily on-site (thickness, Shore hardness and density) and laboratory-determined parameters (static and dynamic stiffness), which are costly and time-consuming to measure. The research confirms that prototype prefabricated vibration isolation baseplate pads made of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) granules, recycled from end-of-life car tires, can achieve equivalent basic static and dynamic parameters, compared to underlays made of two-component polyurethane (PU) resin. This aligns with the strategy of promoting sustainable materials in construction. The innovative and prefabricated SBR rubber baseplate pads can also be used in repair and maintenance works (regardless of weather conditions), as they enable the quick launch of tram traffic. The results of the research included in this article can be used by other scientists, recycled rubber producers, tram track designers or construction site engineers.
On a New Modification of Baskakov Operators with Higher Order of Approximation
Authors: Gadjev Ivan , Parvanov Parvan , Uluchev Rumen
Published: January 2025

A new Goodman–Sharma-type modification of the Baskakov operator is presented for approximation of bounded and continuous functions on [0,∞). We study the approximation error of the proposed operator. Our main results are a direct theorem and strong converse theorem with respect to a related K-functional. Both theorems give complete characterization of the uniform approximation error in means of the K-functional. The new operator suggested by the authors is linear but non-positive. However, it has the advantage of a higher order of approximation compared to the Goodman–Sharma variant of the Baskakov operator defined in 2005 by Finta. The results of computational simulations are given.
A Bayesian Markov Framework for Modeling Breast Cancer Progression
Authors: Wu Tong
Published: January 2025

This study develops a three-state Markov framework to estimate the transition rates between normal, preclinical screen-detectable phase (PCDP), and clinical breast cancer using simulated data. Two exponential models are explored: a five-mode transition model and a six-mode transition model, the latter incorporating exact cancer case timings. Each model is analyzed both with and without covariates to evaluate their influence on breast cancer progression. Parameters are estimated utilizing maximum likelihood estimation and Bayesian models with Gibbs sampling to ensure robustness and methodological rigor. Additionally, a nonhomogeneous model based on the Weibull distribution is introduced to account for time-varying transition rates, providing a more dynamic perspective on disease progression. While the analysis is conducted with simulated data, the framework is adaptable to real-world datasets, offering valuable insights for refining screening policies and optimizing inter-screening intervals.
Research on Spurious-Negative Sample Augmentation-Based Quality Evaluation Method for Cybersecurity Knowledge Graph
Authors: Chen Bin , Li Hongyi , Shi Ze
Published: January 2025

As the forms of cyber threats become increasingly severe, cybersecurity knowledge graphs (KGs) have become essential tools for understanding and mitigating these threats. However, the quality of the KG is critical to its effectiveness in cybersecurity applications. In this paper, we propose a spurious-negative sample augmentation-based quality evaluation method for cybersecurity KGs (SNAQE) that includes two key modules: the multi-scale spurious-negative triple detection module and the adaptive mixup based on the attention mechanism module. The multi-scale spurious-negative triple detection module classifies the sampled negative triples into spurious-negative and true-negative triples. Subsequently, the attention mechanism-based adaptive mixup module selects appropriate mixup targets for each spurious-negative triple, constructing partially correct triples and achieving more precise sample generation in the entity embedding space to assist in training the KG quality evaluation models. Through extensive experimental validation, the SNAQE model not only performs excellently in general-domain KG quality evaluation but also achieves outstanding outcomes in the cybersecurity KGs, significantly enhancing the accuracy and F1 score of the model, with the best F1 score of 0.969 achieved on the FB15K dataset.
On the Development of a Modified Timoshenko Beam Element for the Bending Analysis of Functionally Graded Beams
Authors: Ghazwani Mofareh Hassan , Vinh Pham V. V.
Published: January 2025

This study examines the static bending behavior of functionally graded beams using a newly developed modified Timoshenko beam element. The mixed finite element formulation and Timoshenko beam theory serve as the foundation for the formulation of the proposed beam element. There are two nodes and two degrees of freedom in each node of the new beam element. The suggested element is free of shear locking, without the need for reduced or selective integrations, because of the mixed finite element formulation. Comparative results demonstrate high accuracy in computations, even with both regular and irregular meshes, as well as coarse and fine discretization. Because of its rapid convergence rate, the proposed element is an excellent tool for analyzing beam structures with complex geometries and load conditions. Several examples are provided to demonstrate the accuracy and high convergence of the proposed beam element. Additionally, the effects of various parameters, such as the power-law index and thickness-to-length ratio, on the bending behavior of functionally graded beams are investigated. The findings highlight the robustness and versatility of the developed beam element, which makes it a useful contribution to research into the computational mechanics of beam structures.
Revisiting Information Cascades in Online Social Networks
Authors: Sidorov Michael , Hadar Ofer , Vilenchik Dan
Published: January 2025

It is widely believed that a user’s activity pattern in Online Social Networks (OSNs) is strongly influenced by their friends or the users they follow. Building on this intuition, numerous models have been proposed over the years to predict information propagation in OSNs. Many of these models drew inspiration from the process of infectious spread within a population. While this approach is definitely plausible, it relies on knowledge of users’ social connections, which can be challenging to obtain due to privacy concerns. Moreover, while a significant body of work has focused on predicting macro-level features, such as the total cascade size, relatively little attention has been given to the prediction of micro-level features, such as the activity of an individual user. In this study we aim to address this gap by proposing a method to predict the activity of individual users in an OSN, relying solely on their interactions rather than prior knowledge of their social network. We evaluated our results on four large datasets, each comprising over 14 million tweets, recorded on X social network across four different topics over several month. Our method achieved a mean F1 score of 0.86, with a best result of 0.983.
Applications of Riccati–Bernoulli and Bäcklund Methods to the Kuralay-II System in Nonlinear Sciences
Authors: Rashedi Khudhayr A. , Almusawa Musawa Yahya , Almusawa Hassan , Alshammari Tariq S. , Almarashi Adel
Published: January 2025

The Kuralay-II system (K-IIS) plays a pivotal role in modeling sophisticated nonlinear wave processes, particularly in the field of optics. This study introduces novel soliton solutions for the K-IIS, derived using the Riccati–Bernoulli sub-ODE method combined with Bäcklund transformation and conformable fractional derivatives. The obtained solutions are expressed in trigonometric, hyperbolic, and rational forms, highlighting the adaptability and efficacy of the proposed approach. To enhance the understanding of the results, the solutions are visualized using 2D representations for fractional-order variations and 3D plots for integer-type solutions, supported by detailed contour plots. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of nonlinear wave–wave interactions and the underlying dynamics governed by fractional-order derivatives. This work underscores the significance of fractional calculus in analyzing complex wave phenomena and provides a robust framework for further exploration in nonlinear sciences and optical wave modeling.
Maximum Butterfly Generators Search in Bipartite Networks
Authors: Huang Jianrong , Pang Guangyao , Hao Fei
Published: January 2025

Bipartite graphs are widely used for modelling various real-world scenarios characterized with binary relations, such as, scholarly articles recommendation with author-paper relations, and product recommendation with user-product relations. Particularly, maximum butterfly as a special cohesive subgraph of bipartite graphs, is playing an critical role in many promising application such as recommendation systems and research groups detection. Enumerating maximal butterfly has been proved to be a NP-hard and suffers time and space complexity. To conquer this challenge, this paper pioneers a novel problem called maximal butterfly generators search (MBGS) for facilitating the detection of maximal butterflies. The MBGS problem is to find a subgraph B of G such that maximize the number of butterflies in B and it is mathematically proved to NP-Hard. To address this problem, an equivalence relation theorem between maximum butterfly generator and maximum butterfly concept is presented. Furthermore, an effective MBGS search algorithm is proposed. Extensive experiments on real-world networks with ground-truth communities and interesting case studies validated the effectiveness and efficiency of our MBGS model and algorithm.
Non-Anatomic Reconstruction in Multiligament Knee Injuries: A Functional Approach
Authors: Hurmuz Mihai , Miu Cătălin-Adrian , Ceachir Daniel , Tatu Romulus-Fabian , Andrei Mihai , Andor Bogdan , Motofelea Alexandru Catalin , Hozan Călin Tudor
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Multiligament knee injuries, involving damage to multiple stabilizing structures, present a significant challenge in orthopedic surgery, often resulting in knee instability and compromised function. While anatomic ligament reconstruction has been traditionally advocated, non-anatomic techniques may provide effective alternatives, particularly for patients with moderate functional demands who do not require high-level athletic performance. Material and methods: In this study, we assessed the outcomes of a non-anatomic, hybrid surgical approach involving combined arthroscopic and open non-anatomic ligament reconstruction in 60 patients with multiligament knee injuries. Using simplified reconstruction methods for the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament (LCL), we tailored the procedures to the needs of active, non-professional patients. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Questionnaire, Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale, and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Results: Postoperative improvements were significant, with the total IKDC score increasing from a median of 39.1 preoperatively to 75.9 postoperatively, Lysholm from 61.0 to 87.0, and KOOS from 47.6 to 85.7 (p < 0.01). The results demonstrated significant improvements across all scoring systems, with enhanced knee stability, reduced pain, and better quality of life. Conclusions: These findings support the feasibility of non-anatomic reconstructions as a practical solution for patients seeking a return to daily activities and recreational sports without the complexity of full anatomic reconstruction.
Serum Lipids Alterations in Patients Under Systemic JAK Inhibitors Treatments in Dermatology: Clinical Aspects and Management
Authors: Paolino Giovanni , Valenti Mario , Carugno Andrea , Bianco Matteo , Didona Dario , Di Nicola Matteo Riccardo , Acutis Pier Luigi , Cantisani Carmen , Bianchi Vittoria Giulia , Zerbinati Nicola , Narcisi Alessandra , Costanzo Antonio , Mercuri Santo Raffaele
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) have significantly advanced the treatment of various dermatological conditions by modulating the JAK-STAT signalling pathway. While these inhibitors have proven effective, they also pose challenges due to associated increase in serum lipid levels and relative potential cardiovascular risks. This perspective work aims to discuss the implications of these lipid alterations proposing management strategies for patients with dermatological disorders under JAKi treatments. Materials and Methods: This manuscript reviews existing and recent literature on the metabolic effects of JAKi, particularly focusing on their impact on lipid profiles in patients treated for dermatological diseases. Results: JAK inhibitors are consistently associated with an increase in both LDL and HDL levels shortly after treatment initiation, which tend to stabilise over time. Despite these changes, there is no clear evidence linking these alterations to an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), indicating a complex interaction between lipid metabolism and JAK-STAT signalling. Conclusions: Although JAKi may induce lipid changes in patients, raising concerns, especially in ones with existing cardiovascular risks, currently there is no proven link to increased MACE in this population. Monitoring lipid levels, alongside lifestyle modifications and possible statin use, can manage these effects without the need to stopping treatment.
Prevalence of Dental Fear and Its Association with Oral Health Status Among School Children in Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Eric Jelena , Davidovic Bojana , Mladenovic Rasa , Milosavljevic Marko , Miljevic Ivana Dmitruk , Bjelovic Ljiljana , Jankovic Svjetlana , Dolic Olivera , Davidovic Brankica
Published: January 2025

Background and Objective: This study aimed to examine the prevalence of dental fear among schoolchildren in Bosnia and Herzegovina, analyze the distribution of dental anxiety by gender, age, and place of residence in relation to perceived sources of fear, and evaluate its association with oral health status. Materials and Methods: The sample included 355 schoolchildren between the ages of 12 and 15. Data were gathered using a self-assessment questionnaire, a brief clinical oral examination, and the Children’s Fear Survey Schedule–Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS). Results: Clinical examinations showed that 87.61% of the children had dental caries, with a mean DMFT score of 3.75 (SD = 2.93). The prevalence of dental caries was significantly higher in the older group compared to the younger group (p < 0.01). Dental fear was present in 21.7% of the children, with a mean total CFSS-DS score of 27.50 (SD = 13.85). The most feared aspect among the children was “Choking” (73.8%), followed by “Injections” (63.7%) and “The noise of the dentist drilling” (52.1%). Children with dental fear had a significantly greater number of decayed and missing teeth, higher DMFT scores, and poorer gingival health and oral hygiene compared to those without dental fear (p < 0.01), even after adjusting for sociodemographic factors. Conclusions: The study found a moderate level of dental fear among Bosnian schoolchildren, with younger children and those from urban areas showing more fear of injections. It also showed a consistent link between dental anxiety and clinical factors such as caries, gum disease, and oral hygiene, even after adjusting for sociodemographic factors.
Fracture Toughness Assessment of Pipeline Steels Under Hydrogen Exposure for Blended Gas Applications
Authors: Ghadiani Hesamedin , Farhat Zoheir , Alam Tahrim , Islam Md. Aminul
Published: January 2025

Hydrogen embrittlement (HE) is a critical concern for pipeline steels, particularly as the energy sector explores the feasibility of blending hydrogen with natural gas to reduce carbon emissions. Various mechanical testing methods assess HE, with fracture toughness testing offering a quantitative measure of defect impacts on structural safety, particularly for cracks arising during manufacturing, fabrication, or in-service conditions. This study focuses on assessing the fracture toughness of two pipeline steels from an existing natural gas network under varying hydrogen concentrations using double cantilever beam (DCB) fracture tests. A vintage API X52 steel with a ferritic–pearlitic microstructure and a modern API X65 steel with polygonal ferrite and elongated pearlite colonies were selected to represent old and new pipeline materials. Electrochemical hydrogen charging was employed to simulate hydrogen exposure, with the charging parameters derived from hydrogen permeation tests. The results highlight the differing impacts of hydrogen on the fracture toughness and crack growth in vintage and modern pipeline steels. These findings are essential for ensuring the safety and integrity of pipelines carrying hydrogen–natural gas blends.
In Ovo Vaccination Technology: An Alternative Approach to Post-Hatch Vaccination in Modern Poultry Operations
Authors: Abd El-Ghany Wafaa A.
Published: January 2025

Poultry production systems are usually exposed to important infections that could be prevented by vaccination programs. Conventional methods of vaccination such as drinking water; spray, eye, or nose inoculation; and injection are usually given after hatching and have many disadvantages. Therefore, there is a great need for searching of alternative ways for vaccination process. In ovo vaccination technology is now regarded as an alternative approach to post-hatch vaccination in modern poultry operations. This technique is effective, fast, provides uniform vaccine dosing and delivery, is suitable for massive production, and reduces labor costs. Routine in ovo vaccination is applied during the late stage of embryonic development between days 17.5 and 19.25 of egg incubation. The best route of inoculation of the vaccine is in the amniotic fluid or in the embryo’s muscles, without causing any hatchability or chick quality losses. Accordingly, the inoculation site, the age of the embryos and breeders, presence of maternal antibodies, and the sanitation of equipment’s and the environment during the vaccination process affect the efficiency of the in ovo vaccination technique. In ovo vaccination technology is currently applied for vaccination against several economically important viral diseases such as Newcastle, infectious bursal disease, Marek’s disease, infectious laryngotracheitis, infectious bronchitis, avian influenza, and avian metapneumovirus. Moreover, vaccines used for prevention of mycoplasmosis and coccidiosis could be applied in ovo instead of in post-hatching application. It can be concluded that in ovo vaccination is a rapidly growing trend of vaccine technology, and it can replace post-hatching vaccination conventional methods.
Real-World Effectiveness and Safety of Isavuconazole Versus Amphotericin B for Patients with Invasive Mucormycosis
Authors: Qin Jiayuan , Bi Hongxia , Tang Guangmin , Liu Xinyao , Qu Junyan , Lv Xiaoju , Liu Yanbin
Published: January 2025

Background: Invasive mucormycosis (IM) poses a substantial morbidity and mortality burden among immunocompromised patients. Objectives: We aim to compare the real-world effectiveness and safety of isavuconazole with those of amphotericin B in patients with IM. Patients and methods: In this observational cohort study, we enrolled patients who were diagnosed with IM and treated with either isavuconazole or amphotericin B. Results: A total of 106 patients met the study criteria. Of these, 47 received isavuconazole, and 59 received amphotericin B as the primary treatment. The two cohorts had similar baseline characteristics, including a history of malignancy, use of immunosuppressants, infection sites, and pathogens. The amphotericin B group demonstrated a significantly greater incidence of renal disorders (p < 0.001) and hypokalemia (p < 0.001) than the isavuconazole group. The proportion of patients who received salvage therapy was greater in the amphotericin B group than in the isavuconazole group (42% vs. 6%, p < 0.001). Eighteen patients in the amphotericin B group discontinued treatment because of adverse events, whereas no patients in the isavuconazole group discontinued treatment because of adverse events. A significant difference in the primary therapeutic response between the isavuconazole and amphotericin B groups was noted (p = 0.013), with a higher treatment failure rate in the amphotericin B group (68% vs. 36%, p = 0.001). However, there were no significant differences in all-cause mortality or mucormycosis-attributable mortality rates between the two groups. Conclusions: Isavuconazole outperformed amphotericin B as a first-line treatment option for IM in terms of its clinical effectiveness and safety.
Spore-Derived Isolates from a Single Basidiocarp of Bioluminescent Omphalotus olivascens Reveal Multifaceted Phenotypic and Physiological Variations
Authors: Diaz Rudy , Bermudes David
Published: January 2025

The fungal genus Omphalotus is noted for its bioluminescence and the production of biologically active secondary metabolites. We isolated 47 fungal strains of Omphalotus olivascens germinated from spores of a single mushroom. We first noted a high degree of variation in the outward appearances in radial growth and pigmentation among the cultures. Radial growth rates fell into at least five distinct categories, with only slower-growing isolates obtained compared with the parental dikaryon. Scanning UV-vis spectroscopy of liquid-grown cultures showed variation in pigmentation in both the absorption intensity and peak absorption wavelengths, indicating that some isolates vary from the parental strain in both pigment concentration and composition. Bioluminescence intensity was observed to have isolates with both greater and lesser intensities, while the increased emission in response to caffeic acid was inversely proportional to the unstimulated output. Under UV illumination, the media of the parental strain was observed to be brightly fluorescent, which was not due to the pigment, while the isolates also varied from greater to lesser intensity and in their peak emission. At least three separate fluorescent bands were observed by gel electrophoresis from one of the cultures, while only one was observed in others. In a subset of the cultures, fluorescence intensity varied significantly in response to casamino acids. None of this subset produced an antibiotic effective against Staphylococcus aureus, and only the haploids, but not the parental heterokaryon, produced an antibiotic consistent with illudin M effective against Mycobacterium smegmatis. This same subset produced an anticancer agent that was highly potent against MDA-MB-468 breast cancer tumor cells. We interpret these variations in haploids as significant in altering Omphalotus physiology and its production of secondary metabolites, which may in turn alter their ecology and life cycle, and could be further applied to studying fungal physiologies and facilitate linking them to their genetic underpinnings.
An Evaluation of the Impact of Curdlan and Buttermilk Addition on the Functional Properties and Sensory Quality of Processed Cheese Analogs
Authors: Bielecka Marika Magdalena , Florczuk Aleksandra , Aljewicz Marek
Published: January 2025

The present study was undertaken to investigate the impact of curdlan and buttermilk addition on the physicochemical and sensory attributes of processed cheeses (PCs), thereby elucidating their potential utility in culinary applications. Comprehensive analyses were conducted to assess the chemical composition, textural and rheological properties, microstructural features, and sensory characteristics of PCs. The findings indicate that the addition of curdlan notably decreased both the hardness and stickiness of cheeses but also significantly reduced their meltability. Conversely, an increase in buttermilk content was correlated with enhanced hardness of the cheese matrix. In addition, buttermilk provided a creamier taste, thereby increasing the product’s appeal for consumers. The colorimetric analysis revealed that buttermilk-induced cheese darkening via the Maillard reaction, whereas curdlan addition resulted in a modest increase in yellowness. Buttermilk-containing cheeses received high scores for smoothness and flavor in sensory evaluations. A marked decrease in the functional properties of PCs, such as meltability, was observed when buttermilk addition exceeded 2.5%. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the controlled addition of curdlan and buttermilk positively affects the texture, color, and flavor of PCs, and it provides valuable information for the cheese industry.