bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fibrillin-1 deficiency perturbs aortic cholinergic relaxation and adrenergic contraction in a mouse model of early onset progressively severe Marfan syndrome
Authors: Cantalupo Anna , Asano Keiichi , Dikalov Sergey , Gordon Dylan , Ramirez Francesco
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The pathogenic role of nitric oxide (NO) signaling during development of thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) in Marfan syndrome (MFS) is currently unclear. We characterized vasomotor function and its relationship to the activity of the NO-generating enzymes in mice with early onset progressively severe MFS.
Methods: Wire myography, immunoblotting, measurements of aortic NO and superoxide levels were used to compare vasomotor function, contractile-protein levels, and the activity of endothelial and inducible NO synthase (eNOS and iNOS, respectively) in ascending thoracic aortas of Fbn1mgR/mgR mice relative to wild type (WT) littermates.
Results: Isometric force measurements of aortic rings from 16-day-old male Fbn1mgR/mgR mice revealed a significant reduction in acetylcholine (ACh)-induced relaxation and increased phenylephrine (PE)-promoted contractility, associated with abnormally low eNOSSer1177 phosphorylation, decreased NO production and augmented superoxide levels. Greater aortic contractility was associated with α1-adrenoceptor upregulation and normal levels of contractile proteins. While iNOS inhibition had no effect on vasomotor functions, mutant aortic rings pre-incubated with a non-specific NOS inhibitor yielded a greater PE response, implying a significant contribution of endothelial dysfunction to aortic hypercontractility.
Conclusion: Impaired eNOS signaling disrupts aortic cholinergic relaxation and adrenergic contraction in MFS mice with dissecting TAA.
Proactive deep learning-facilitated inpatient penicillin allergy delabelling: An implementation study
Authors: Jiang Melinda , Stretton Brandon , Kovoor Joshua , Inglis Joshua M. , Thompkins Sophia , Yuson Carlo , Shakib Sepehr , Smith William B. , Bacchi Stephen
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Erroneous penicillin allergy labels are associated with significant health and economic costs. This study aimed to determine whether deep learning-facilitated proactive consultation to facilitate delabelling may further enhance inpatient penicillin allergy delabelling.

Methods: This prospective implementation study utilised a deep learning-guided proactive consultation service, which utilized an inpatient penicillin allergy delabelling protocol. The intervention group comprised all admitted inpatients with a penicillin allergy over the course of a 14-week period in a tertiary hospital. The rate of penicillin allergy delabelling in the intervention group was compared to that of a historical control group.

Results: There were 439 patients included in the study, of whom 121 were identified by the algorithm as suitable for penicillin allergy interrogation. 16.5% of those identified by the algorithm were successfully delabelled in the inpatient setting within the same admission, and 9.9% were referred for outpatient testing. This result was statistically significantly greater compared to the rate of delabelling in the historical control group (0%, P = 0.00001). There were no adverse reactions. The projected annual savings associated with the program over a 12-month period was $1,170,617.16.

Conclusion: Deep learning-facilitated proactive inpatient penicillin allergy delabelling was effective, safe, and economical in this single-centre implementation study. Further studies should seek to examine this approach in diverse centres.
Association of Timing of Physical Activity with Physical Frailty Incidence in Older Adults
Authors: Morikawa Masanori , Harada Kenji , Kurita Satoshi , Nishijima Chiharu , Fujii Kazuya , Kakita Daisuke , Yamashiro Yukari , Takayanagi Naoto , Sudo Motoki , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Maximizing the benefits of physical activity (PA) is important to prevent physical frailty for a measure of this public health issue. This study aimed to investigate the association of timing of PA with the conversion to physical frailty.
Methods: This longitudinal observational study enrolled a total of 1,310 community-dwelling Japanese older adults who enrolled in the National Center for Geriatric and Gerontology－Study of Geriatric Syndromes remained as the examined population. A health checkup was conducted to measure baseline characteristics. Subsequently, objectively measured PA was recorded for ≥ 7 days (≥ 10 hours per day) for 30 days. Daily steps and the morning (6:00-12:00), afternoon (12:00-18:00), and evening (18:00-24:00) steps were calculated. A two-year follow-up survey was administered to determine the frailty conversion, defined by newly acquired Kihon Checklist scores of 7 or higher. A logistic regression model was constructed with timing of PA and covariates as explanatory variables, and frailty conversion as the dependent variable.
Results: The number of conversions to frailty was 121 (9.2%). A significant association were observed between evening steps and frailty conversion (log(OR) = -0.44; 95%CI = -0.87—-0.03; p-value = 0.037). No significant associations were observed in the PA of morning (log(OR) = -0.03; 95%CI = -0.51—0.55; p-value = 0.906) and afternoon (log(OR) = -0.36; 95%CI = -0.78—0.13; p-value = 0.117).
Conclusions: Evening PA could be advantageous in preventing frailty conversion among community-dwelling older adults. Maximizing the impact of PA may be effective against this public health concern, physical frailty.
A tradição textual do Convívio de Dante Alighieri
Authors: Brito Emanuel França de
Published: January 2025

Tendo sido anunciada para o início de 2018 a publicação da minha tradução do Convívio pelo selo Penguin Clássicos Companhia das Letras, apresento neste artigo o histórico de transmissão do texto de Dante, desde os códices manuscritos às mais recentes edições italianas que serviram de base para a tradução e para o seu aparato crítico. Por ser esse o texto dantesco que mais provoca discussões quanto ao seu (r)estabelecimento, a tradução se dá a partir da edição crítica de Franca Brambilla Ageno (1995), ressaltando-se aqui a importância de observar a discussão filológica no campo dos estudos dantescos feitos no Brasil.
Imaginário e representação na formação da toponímia do Tocantins colonial
Authors: Andrade Karylleila , Flores Kátia Maia
Published: January 2025

A língua tupi é a responsável pela formação da toponímia brasileira nos primeiros séculos, após o “achamento” do Brasil. Em Goiás, antiga Terra de Goyases, o período de entradas e bandeiras, especialmente pelos colonos paulistas, e as expedições de jesuítas pelos rios Araguaia e Tocantins, favoreceram a formação da Toponímia nessa região. O certo é que, por onde os povos indígenas que falavam línguas do tronco tupi passavam, denominavam a realidade circundante, a fim de demarcar os espaços da paisagem local (elementos físicos: rios, córregos, serras etc. e elementos humanos e/ou culturais: arraiais, povoados, julgados, etc.), com diversos interesses, dentre eles, a conquista por territórios. O presente artigo tem como proposta oferecer leituras sobre a formação da toponímia colonial na Província de Goiás, tendo em vista que o povoamento da região se deu, particularmente, pelos rios Araguaia e Tocantins. Ademais, intencionamos apresentar uma possível leitura dessa formação a partir de dados documentais da “existência” do povo indígena nomeado Tocantins. Os procedimentos metodológicos utilizados foram a pesquisa bibliográfica e a documental (mapas e documentos dos séculos XVI, XVII e XVIII). Os autores Sampaio (1987), Flores (2009), Dick (2004), Casal (1845), Ferreira (1960; 1977), Palacin, Garcia e Amado (1995) subsidiaram a pesquisa bibliográfica.
The Cost of Randomness in Evolutionary Algorithms: Crossover Can Save Random Bits
Authors: Kneissl Carlo , Sudholt Dirk
Published: January 2025

Evolutionary algorithms make countless random decisions during selection, mutation and crossover operations. These random decisions require a steady stream of random numbers. We analyze the expected number of random bits used throughout a run of an evolutionary algorithm and refer to this as the cost of randomness. We give general bounds on the cost of randomness for mutation-based evolutionary algorithms using 1-bit flips or standard mutations using either a naive or a common, more efficient implementation that uses Θ(logn) random bits per mutation.

Uniform crossover is a potentially wasteful operator as the number of random bits used equals the Hamming distance of the two parents, which can be up to n. However, we show for a (2+1) Genetic Algorithm that is known to optimize the test function ONEMAX in roughly (e/2)nlnn expected evaluations, twice as fast as the fastest mutation-based evolutionary algorithms, that the total cost of randomness during all crossover operations on ONEMAX is only Θ(n). A more pronounced effect is shown for the common test function JUMPk, where there is an asymptotic decrease both in the number of evaluations and in the cost of randomness. Consequently, the use of crossover can reduce the cost of randomness below that of the fastest evolutionary algorithms that only use standard mutations.
Implications of the Revised Draft EU Accession Agreement for the echr
Authors: Lock Tobias
Published: January 2025

This article explores the implications of the EU’s accession to the echr from the echr perspective based on the revised Draft Accession Agreement (daa 2023). The article analyses key procedural innovations in the daa 2023, notably how the co-respondent mechanism, the prior involvement of the cjeu, and the daa’s solutions for advisory opinion requests and for dealing with the EU law concept of mutual trust would work. It exposes the EU’s new role as a gatekeeper in relation to certain procedural questions. The article further contrasts the position of EU member states and non-EU member states post-accession by pointing out potential inconsistencies and assesses proposed solutions in light of their effectiveness and workability. The article suggests that, despite the considerable concessions made to the EU, EU accession to the echr would nonetheless result in a strengthening of the echr system and is thus worth the effort and compromises.
Revisiting the depoliticisation thesis: Political participation and the use of complementary and alternative medicine in Europe
Authors: Kemppainen Laura , Salmenniemi Suvi
Published: January 2025

The increasing cultural prevalence and appeal of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) have raised concerns about its potential depoliticising effects. Due to its focus on the self, CAM is believed to cultivate individualism and orient transformative energies towards self-improvement rather than the collective struggle for social justice. However, despite these concerns, few quantitative studies have examined CAM from the perspective of the depoliticisation thesis. This article aims to address this gap by studying the association between political participation and CAM with data from the European Social Survey (ESS). These data enable us to capture a diverse range of CAM practices and to scrutinise both institutionalised forms of political participation, such as voting, and non-institutionalised participation taking place in civil society. Contrary to the depoliticisation thesis, our results show that CAM users either engage more actively in voting or do not significantly differ in their voting behaviour compared to non-users, depending on the specific CAM modalities considered. Moreover, CAM users participate more actively in non-institutionalised activities than non-users across all types of CAM modalities. This article offers valuable insights into the relationship between CAM and political engagement and challenges prevailing assumptions about the depoliticising effects of CAM.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Challenges of Oral Melanoma in Dogs: A Literature Review and 2 Case Studies
Authors: Reynolds Brooke , Bell Cynthia M.
Published: January 2025

Oral melanoma is the most common maxillofacial malignancy in dogs. A unique characteristic of melanoma is its ability to mimic other oral tumors, which makes it one of the most challenging oral tumors to diagnose, especially since 30% to 40% of cases are amelanotic. This article presents 2 case reports of dogs with amelanotic oral melanoma that were both diagnostically challenging. Case 1 is a sparsely pigmented, spindle cell oral melanoma that was initially diagnosed as benign fibrous hyperplasia and subsequently suspected to be fibrosarcoma. Case 2 is an amelanotic oral melanoma that was originally diagnosed as an extramedullary plasmacytoma. This report highlights features of each of the cases while also discussing strategies to optimize the diagnosis of oral melanoma in dogs. A literature review summarizes the diagnostic evaluation of oral melanoma and how it pertains to prognostication.
Motivation, accountability, and outcomes in a randomized controlled trial of internet weight-loss programs in primary care
Authors: Martinez Caitlin E , Nezami Brooke T , Gorin Amy A , Mayer-Davis Elizabeth , Willis Erik A , Sciamanna Christopher N , Tate Deborah F
Published: January 2025

This study explored whether baseline autonomous motivation (AM), controlled motivation (CM), and relative autonomy index (RAI) scores predicted 12-month weight in a three-arm randomized controlled trial of internet weight loss programs in primary care. It also evaluated perceived accountability to a primary care provider for weight loss as a moderator and study engagement (operationalized as weeks logged into the study website) as a mediator of these relationships. Participants with complete data for all model variables ( n = 428) were included. Multiple linear regression models controlling for baseline weight and covariates showed that one-unit increases in baseline CM and RAI scores predicted a 0.57 kg increase ( p = 0.015; Cohen’s f2 = 0.02) and 0.52 kg decrease ( p = 0.019; Cohen’s f2 = 0.02) in weight, respectively. AM was not associated with 12-month weight. No moderating or mediating effects were found. Findings suggest the need for greater attention to baseline CM in weight loss programs in primary care.
Using a mobile app comprising neurofeedback-based meditation and binaural beat music to treat PTSD symptoms: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Choi Yun-Jung , Lee Na-Rae
Published: January 2025

Background

There is a significant need for an effective and convenient symptom management and healing program for people experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms; however, research on this topic is lacking.

Objective

This study explored the experiences of individuals with PTSD who used a mobile traumatic stress management app with neurofeedback-based meditation and binaural beat music to promote their psychological recovery.

Methods

This study used a qualitative research method to explore the experiences of neurofeedback-based meditation and binaural beat music using a mobile traumatic stress management app to promote the psychological recovery of people experiencing chronic traumatic stress. The research question was “What is the experience of neurofeedback-based meditation and binaural beat music using the mobile traumatic stress management app?”

Results

The thematic content analysis of in-depth interviews held with nine participants derived 26 codes, eight sub-categories, three categories, and one theme (“Holding hope for healing from agony of mind and body”).

Conclusion

Neurofeedback-based meditation and binaural beat music using a mobile app helped people with PTSD symptoms to truly understand the symptoms caused by traumatic stress. Continued use of this program provides the participants with physical and psychological stability; it instills them with faith and hope.
Knowledge Driven Machine Learning Towards Interpretable Intelligent Prognostics and Health Management: Review and Case Study
Authors: Yan Ruqiang , Zhou Zheng , Shang Zuogang , Wang Zhiying , Hu Chenye , Li Yasong , Yang Yuangui , Chen Xuefeng , Gao Robert X.
Published: January 2025

Despite significant progress in the Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) domain using pattern learning systems from data, machine learning (ML) still faces challenges related to limited generalization and weak interpretability. A promising approach to overcoming these challenges is to embed domain knowledge into the ML pipeline, enhancing the model with additional pattern information. In this paper, we review the latest developments in PHM, encapsulated under the concept of Knowledge Driven Machine Learning (KDML). We propose a hierarchical framework to define KDML in PHM, which includes scientific paradigms, knowledge sources, knowledge representations, and knowledge embedding methods. Using this framework, we examine current research to demonstrate how various forms of knowledge can be integrated into the ML pipeline and provide roadmap to specific usage. Furthermore, we present several case studies that illustrate specific implementations of KDML in the PHM domain, including inductive experience, physical model, and signal processing. We analyze the improvements in generalization capability and interpretability that KDML can achieve. Finally, we discuss the challenges, potential applications, and usage recommendations of KDML in PHM, with a particular focus on the critical need for interpretability to ensure trustworthy deployment of artificial intelligence in PHM.
Myoelectric pattern recognition with virtual reality and serious gaming improves upper limb function in chronic stroke: a single case experimental design study
Authors: Munoz-Novoa Maria , Kristoffersen Morten B. , Sunnerhagen Katharina S. , Naber Autumn , Ortiz-Catalan Max , Alt Murphy Margit
Published: January 2025

Background

Myoelectric pattern recognition (MPR) combines multiple surface electromyography channels with a machine learning algorithm to decode motor intention with an aim to enhance upper limb function after stroke. This study aims to determine the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a novel intervention combining MPR, virtual reality (VR), and serious gaming to improve upper limb function in people with chronic stroke.

Methods

In this single case experimental A-B-A design study, six individuals with chronic stroke and moderate to severe upper limb impairment completed 18, 2 h sessions, 3 times a week. Repeated assessments were performed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), grip strength, and kinematics of the drinking task at baseline, during, and post intervention. The results were analyzed by using visual analysis and Tau-U statistics.

Results

All participants improved upper limb function assessed by FMA-UE (Tau-U 0.72–1.0), and five out of six improved beyond the minimal clinical important difference (MCID). Four participants improved ARAT and grip strength scores (Tau-U 0.84–1.0), with one reaching the MCID for ARAT. Three out of four participants in the kinematic analysis achieved improvements beyond the MCID in movement time and smoothness, two with a Tau-U > 0.90, and two participants improved trunk displacement beyond the MCID (Tau-U 0.68). Most participants showed some deterioration in the follow-up phase.

Conclusions

MPR combined with VR and serious gaming is a feasible and promising intervention for improving upper limb function in people with chronic stroke.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, reference number NCT04154371.
Impact of dumpsite compost on heavy metal accumulation in some cultivated plants
Authors: Abd-Elhalim Basma T. , Gideon Mathew , Anton Kuzmin , Boyi Mercy O.
Published: January 2025

The study examines the concentrations of heavy metals in agricultural soil, compost from landfills, maize plants, and spinach crops. The results show that compost from landfills had levels exceeding EU requirements for Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn. However, agricultural soil contained trace amounts of heavy metals. The order of metal absorption by plants was Cd > Pb > Cu > Ni > Cr > Zn > Fe > Mn. This highlights potential health risks associated with consuming crops grown in compost or soil tainted with heavy metals.
Sperm-borne small non-coding RNAs: potential functions and mechanisms as epigenetic carriers
Authors: Naveed Muhammad , Shen Zhaokang , Bao Jianqiang
Published: January 2025

Over the past two decades, the study of sperm-borne small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) has garnered substantial growth. Once considered mere byproducts during germ cell maturation, these sncRNAs have now been recognized as crucial carriers of epigenetic information, playing a significant role in transmitting acquired traits from paternal to offspring, particularly under environmental influences. A growing body of evidence highlights the pivotal role of these sncRNAs in facilitating epigenetic inheritance across generations. However, the exact mechanisms through which these paternally supplied epigenetic carriers operate remain unclear and are under hot debate. This concise review presents the most extensive evidence to date on environmentally-responsive sperm-borne sncRNAs, encompassing brief summary of their origin, dynamics, compartmentalization, characteristics, as well as in-depth elaboration of their functional roles in epigenetic and transgenerational inheritance. Additionally, the review delves into the potential mechanisms by which sperm-delivered sncRNAs may acquire and transmit paternally acquired traits to offspring, modulating zygotic gene expression and influencing early embryonic development.
Biomarkers of sepsis-induced coagulopathy: diagnostic insights and potential therapeutic implications
Authors: Curtiaud Anaïs , Iba Toshiaki , Angles-Cano Eduardo , Meziani Ferhat , Helms Julie
Published: January 2025

Diagnosing coagulopathy in septic patients remains challenging in intensive care. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) indeed presents with complex pathophysiology, complicating timely diagnosis. Epidemiological data indicate a significant prevalence of DIC in septic patients, with mortality rates up to 60%. Despite advances, current biomarker-based diagnostic tools often fail to provide early and accurate detection. This review evaluates the utility and limitations of traditional and emerging biomarkers for diagnosing sepsis-induced coagulopathy (SIC) and DIC. We also assess the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy guided by biomarker-based diagnostic criteria.
Light pollution and its impact on human health and wildlife
Authors: Candolin Ulrika , Filippini Tommaso
Published: January 2025

Artificial light at night (ALAN) is exponentially increasing and several studies highlight detrimental effects on both humans and wildlife, including their reproductive and metabolic systems, cancer risk, and mental health. This Collection aims to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms in humans and other organisms.
Actionable Gene Alterations Identified in Patients With Malignant Melanoma by Targeted Sequencing in Japan
Authors: Noguchi Takuro , Ariga Shin , Moku Rika , Kikuchi Junko , Amano Toraji , Maeda Takuya , Ishikawa Kosuke , Maeda Taku , Shiiya Akihiko , Goda Tomohiro , Ohhara Yoshihito , Hagio Kanako , Saito Yusuke , Hatanaka Kanako C. , Hatanaka Yutaka , Taguchi Jun , Takeuchi Satoshi , Shimizu Yasushi , Kinoshita Ichiro
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

Precision medicine plays an important role in the treatment of patients with advanced melanoma. Despite its high incidence in White patients, advanced melanoma is rare in Asian countries, hampering prospective clinical trials targeting the Asian population. This retrospective study aimed to elucidate the real-world molecular diagnoses and outcomes of Japanese patients with melanoma using comprehensive genome profiling (CGP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with melanoma who completed standard anticancer medical treatments (including those expected to complete the treatments) underwent CGP, which is covered by the National Health Insurance. We analyzed the results and clinical annotations of 569 patients registered before August 2023 in a national database.

RESULTS

Skin, mucosal, and uveal melanomas accounted for 64%, 28%, and 7% of cases, respectively. Patients with
BRAF
,
NRAS
,
NF1
, and
KIT
variants represented 25%, 20%, 17%, and 17%, respectively. Eighty-two percent of
BRAF
, 97% of
NRAS
, 69% of
NF1
, and 54% of
KIT
were actionable alterations (ie,
BRAF
classes I, II, and III,
NRAS
Q61, G12, G13,
NF1
loss-of-function,
KIT
gain-of-function variants).
BRAF
V600E/K variants occurred in 22% of skin and 2% of mucosal melanomas, but not in uveal melanomas. The mean tumor mutation burden in cutaneous melanomas was 4.2 variants/Mb. Patients previously treated with BRAF-targeted therapy harbored amplifications of
BRAF
and cell cycle genes more frequently than therapy-naive patients. Thirty-six patients (6.3%) were treated following the molecular tumor board (MTB) recommendations.

CONCLUSION

Actionable gene alterations in
BRAF
,
NRAS
,
NF1
, and
KIT
are common in Japanese patients with melanoma. However, few patients were treated according to the MTB recommendations, suggesting that there is an unmet need to increase accessibility to gene-matched clinical trials in Japan.
Longitudinal Association of Statin Treatment With Insulin Sensitivity and Beta-Cell Function in the PROMISE Cohort
Authors: Lai Kira Zhi Hua , Harris Stewart B , Retnakaran Ravi , Hanley Anthony J G , Schwarz Ute I
Published: January 2025

Context

Statin treatment lowers low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, thereby reducing cardiovascular risk. Meta-analyses of clinical trials report a higher risk of new-onset type 2 diabetes with statins. Current clinical evidence regarding effects of statins on insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function is limited.

Objective

We examined the effects of statin treatment on longitudinal changes in early-risk phenotypes for type 2 diabetes.

Methods

The PROMISE cohort is a longitudinal study of adults at risk for type 2 diabetes. Data from baseline and 3 follow-up visits over 9 years were used to estimate insulin sensitivity (insulin sensitivity index, homeostatic model assessment for insulin sensitivity) and beta-cell function (insulinogenic index/homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, insulin secretion sensitivity index-2). Statin use was self-reported. Associations of statins with changes in metabolic markers were determined through generalized estimating equations.

Results

Over 9 years, 169 of 498 participants (aged 50 years, 74% female) received a statin, predominantly rosuvastatin and atorvastatin. Compared to those with no statin treatment, statin users had lower insulin sensitivity (5.32%-6.36%) and beta-cell function (4.93%-7.59%) (P < .001), adjusting for metabolic risk factors. Rosuvastatin was associated with decreased insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function, while atorvastatin showed moderate inverse association with beta-cell function and insulin sensitivity. In female participants, statins reduced insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function, while in male participants only beta-cell function was altered.

Conclusion

Statin treatment was associated with lowered insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function with potential differential effects among statin agents and the sexes.
Study on Korean Museum’s Indoor Climate and Need for the New Climate Guideline
Authors: Kim Seojin , Ho-cheol Ho-cheol , Ankersmit Bart , Stappers Marc H. L. , Kwak Byeong-moon , Kim Tae-hee
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the need for new climate guidelines to support the sustainable preservation of cultural heritage in Korean museums. Current climate management practices in domestic museums were evaluated through a survey and case studies examining museum indoor climates. A survey of the preservation environment across 49 museums revealed that many did not monitor or analyze indoor climate data. The case studies of two museums further highlighted the challenges of sustainability for collection management when relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. There is no universally accepted standard for temperature and humidity applicable to all museums, and maintaining rigid year-round temperature and humidity levels is no longer appropriate for sustainable management. For effective sustainable preservation, it is crucial to consider each museum’s local climate, building characteristics, spatial configuration, collection materials, artifact sensitivity, and historical environmental exposure. Considering these factors, museums should adopt customized climate management strategies. To facilitate this, new climate guidelines reflecting Korea’s climate, preservation values, and practical realities are required for cultural heritage conservation.
A Study on the Physical and Chemical Property of Drawings by Accelerated Aging: Focusing on Tracing Paper and Cloth Paper
Authors: Moon Ki Hun , Kim Yun Gi , Lee Sang Hyun
Published: January 2025

Herein, the effects of accelerated aging on the physical and chemical properties of tracing paper and cloth paper were studied via accelerated weathering tests, using Whatman filter paper as a control. Results indicated that the Whatman filter paper, which comprises pure cellulose fibers, exhibited minimal changes due to deterioration besides acidification, making it a valuable benchmark for studies on cellulose-based paper degradation. Tracing paper exhibited considerable discoloration and strength loss with aging, likely due to the degradation of the plasticizers added to enhance its transparency. Cloth paper, which comprises polyester fibers treated with a polysaccharide (assumed to be starch), exhibited considerable acidification and strength loss with aging progression, which can be attributed to the breakdown of the added polysaccharides. These results provide essential insights for understanding the degradation characteristics of tracing and cloth papers. Moreover, further research on the materials used in various drawings will offer critical insights into the mechanisms of document deterioration and contribute to the development of long-term preservation strategies.
Interpretation of Firing Temperature and Material Characteristics for Baekje Potteries and Roof Tiles from Gongsanseong Fortress in Gongju, Republic of Korea
Authors: Shin Hyewon , Park Jun Hyoung , Lee Chan Hee
Published: January 2025

This study examined the material characteristics and firing temperatures according to the type and period of the potteries and roof tiles excavated from Gongsanseong Fortress, the royal palace of Woongjin Baekje, through the scientific analysis. The potteries are characterized by the bowl, long-oval, tripods and lid shaped, respectively, and there are differences in the Woongjin and Sabi periods. In chemical compositions of the body clay, the potteries and roof tiles have similar compositional variations, but there are slight differences in the enrichment and deficiency of some elements depending on the period. Especially, Fe2O3 contents are some different in the bowl and long-oval shaped potteries, and CaO is slightly enriched. Contents of Al2O3 shows also slightly different depending on the type and period. This seems to be influenced by the refinement degree of the body clay, and it was confirmed that the tripods and lid shaped potteries were relatively homogeneous, and fired at relatively high temperature. Based on the mineral phase changes and thermal analysis, their firing temperatures are interpreted as follows as the potteries of the Woongjin and Sabi periods are classified into 850 to 900℃ and 1,000 to 1,050℃ depending on the type, and Woongjin and Sabi roof tiles are indicated at around 950℃ and 1,050℃, respectively.
Michael Attaleiates’ Ἀλβανοὶ and Λατῖνοι: the southern Italian rebels and the changing perception of the Normans in Byzantium
Authors: WELTE BERNARDO Guilherme
Published: January 2025

Michael Attaleiates’ Ἀλβανοὶ and Λατῖνοι: the southern Italian rebels and the changing perception of the Normans in Byzantium 
 
 
 
This article revises the current interpretation regarding who were the Ἀλβανοὶ (Albans) and Λατῖνοι (Latins) mentioned in Michael Attaleiates’ History, written in the 11th century. While previous scholars identified these groups as Albanians and Normans, the article argues that Attaleiates uses both terms to generically drew a parallel between ancient groups appearing in Greco-Roman historiography and contemporary groups in the southern Italy during his time, like the Lombards. It also suggests that Normans (the "Franks from Italy") are sometimes referred to as Λατῖνοι in the work, particularly due to their association with the Lombard population of southern Italy, where they settled. For a more in-depth analysis, the article identifies two different contexts in which the term Λατῖνοι was used by Attaleiates: the first in association with the Ἀλβανοί (i. e., the Lombards), and the second in parallel with the Φράγγοι (Franks, i.e., the Normans). Through these reexaminations, the article provides new insights into the complex relationships between the medieval Roman Empire and its neighbors in the Italian Peninsula.
Σημείωμα σχετικά με την πρόσφατη έκδοση του φιρμανιού της μονής Παντοκράτορος Αγίου Όρους του έτους 1569
Authors: ΚΟΛΟΒΟΣ Ηλίας , ΚΟΤΖΑΓΕΩΡΓΗΣ Φωκίων
Published: January 2025

Στην εργασία παρατίθεται μια πλήρως αναθεωρημένη έκδοση και μετάφραση ενός φιρμανιού από το αρχείο της Αθωνικής Μονής Παντοκράτορος, το οποίο δημοσιεύθηκε πρόσφατα από τους J. Niehoff-Παναγιωτίδη και Α. Νικόπουλο με ουσιώδη λάθη στην ανάγνωση και τη μεταγραφή από τα οθωμανικά τουρκικά, καθώς και στη μετάφραση στα ελληνικά. Πέραν τούτου, η εργασία συζητά κριτικά τις ερμηνείες που προτείνει ο J. Niehoff-Panagiotides και Α. Νικόπουλος, με βάση το έγγραφο αυτό, σχετικά με τη δήμευση των εκκλησιαστικών και μοναστηριακών περιουσιών στην Οθωμανική Αυτοκρατορία κατά τη διάρκεια της βασιλείας του σουλτάνου Σελίμ Β΄, το 1568/69.
“Analyzing the determinants of rural household welfare in Ethiopia: Does agricultural technology adoption matters”: Using seemingly unrelated multi-variate probit model”
Authors: Abate Tadesse Wudu , Sheferaw Henok Ezezew , Sitotaw Kalid Wendimnew , Mulaw Sisay Genanu
Published: January 2025

Background This study analyzed the nexus between rural household welfare and agricultural technology adoption in Ethiopia using secondary data from the Ethiopian Socioeconomic Survey (ESS). The agricultural sector plays a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s economy, contributing significantly to income, consumption, and employment. This research aims to analyze how adopting agricultural technologies such as improved seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation affects poverty and food insecurity among rural households. The research examined poverty and food insecurity levels in Ethiopia and investigates the impact of adopting agricultural technologies on rural household welfare. Methods We used both Descriptive and econometric methods, in which descriptive analysis has been used to assess poverty and food insecurity levels, and a seemingly unrelated bivariate and multivariate probit model applied to analyze the effect of agricultural technology adoption. Result From descriptive summary, it is noted that out of a total sample of the study, 47.61% (2322 out of 4877) are adopting agricultural technologies in many forms more than 70% of female-headed households are food secured and non-poor and 68% of male-headed households are food secured and nun poor. The findings from regression model indicate that access to irrigation, improved seeds, and fertilizers significantly reduces the likelihood of poverty and food insecurity among rural households. Conclusion Based on these results, policy recommendations include promoting agricultural technologies, enhancing access to credit, investing in agricultural extension services, diversifying livelihoods, improving education, and implementing targeted poverty alleviation programs. Further research is encouraged to explore the reasons behind insignificant variables and to identify additional factors affecting rural household welfare in Ethiopia.
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and the long-term risk of maternal retinal disease: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Barrett Peter , Carey Cian , Ding Wu Angela , Wallace Emma , Biba Matilda , Kublickiene Karolina , McCarthy Fergus , Khashan Ali
Published: January 2025

Background Previous studies have established an association between hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) (e.g. preeclampsia, gestational hypertension) and maternal cardiovascular disease, renal disease, and cerebrovascular disease. There is relatively little known about the association between HDP and maternal retinal disease, despite many retinal disorders having an underlying vascular aetiology. Existing research which has focused on HDP and future maternal ophthalmic outcomes is scarce, and findings are inconsistent. Objective This systematic review will examine the available evidence on the association between HDP and long-term maternal retinal disease and other forms of ophthalmic disease. Methods and analysis We will include cohort, cross-sectional, and case-control studies in which women had a known diagnosis of HDP (including preeclampsia, gestational hypertension) and where measures of association with maternal retinal disease or other ophthalmic disease were reported after at least 6 months postpartum. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library will be conducted following a detailed search strategy until end of September 2024. Two authors will independently review titles and abstracts of all eligible studies, extract data using pre-defined, standardised data extraction tools, and assess the quality of each study using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. We will use random-effects meta-analysis for each exposure-outcome association where possible, and we will calculate overall pooled estimates using the generic inverse variance method. PROSPERO registration CRD42024589508
O powstaniu powiatów winnickiego, jampolskiego i mohylowskiego
Authors: Rosienkiewicz Marcin , Modzelewska-Opara Ewa
Published: January 2025

This publication presents the first edition of Marcin Rosienkiewicz’s memoirs entitled On the Uprising of the Winnica, Yampol and Mogilev counties, which until this moment had remained in manuscript in the collections of the Polish Library in Paris (rps. MAM 1097). Marcin Rosienkiewicz, a teacher of history and literature in Krzemieniec and a participant in the November Uprising in Ukrainian lands, was deported in 1833 with a group of 234 Poles by the Austrian government to the United States, where he began a fruitful and multi-dimensional mission to represent the Polish cause and help his compatriots in America. He went down in history as the author of the first book for Poles published in the United States, the founder of the first Polish school in the country and the Polish library in Philadelphia, and the co-founder of the Polish Committee; the first Polish organization in America representing the interests of Polish immigrants. He was greatly involved in promoting Polishness and maintaining the national spirit among the exiles in the U.S., and maintained contact with those involved with the Great Emigration, including Julian Ursyn Niemcewicz, Leonard Chodźko, Adam Jerzy Czartoryski, Eustachy Januszkiewicz, Karol Sienkiewicz, and Krystyn Lach Szyrma. For years, he informed the European emigration (especially in France and England) about the activities of Polish emigrants in America and their fate, and also published articles on Polish literature under the pseudonym Polonus. Another achievement of Rosienkiewicz was saving the memory of the lives and works of emigrants from oblivion, primarily August Antoni Jakubowski, the illegitimate son of Antoni Malczewski; the author of Maria.
Satellite estimation of the spectral power exponent of particulate backscattering coefficient in the global ocean
Authors: Zhang Yinxue , He Xianqiang , Bai Yan , Li Teng , Jin Xuchen , Wang Difeng , Gong Fang
Published: January 2025

The spectral power exponent of the particulate backscattering coefficient (bbp), η, is a crucial parameter for assessing particle size distribution in the ocean, particularly for high-precision estimation of marine biogeochemical cycles. The development of remote sensing inversion models for η has been constrained by insufficient in situ data or faulty model mechanisms. In this study, biogeochemical Argo (BGC-Argo) data were effectively utilized to address the limitations of traditional observations, and the superior XGBoost method was employed to construct a global ocean η remote sensing inversion model (XGB model). In the 5-fold cross-validation, the Pearson correlation coefficient (R), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and median absolute percentage deviation (MAPD) of the XGB model remained stable at approximately 0.65, 0.3, 0.25, and 16%, respectively, demonstrating high robustness. Via independent sample verification and comparison with major inversion models from the literature, the XGB model exhibited a high R value of 0.66 and the lowest RMSE, MAPD, and MAE, with values of 0.33, 16.81%, and 0.25, respectively, indicating its superior inversion capability. High η values were primarily found in oligotrophic regions and the iron-limited Southern Ocean, whereas low values were observed in coastal waters, exhibiting seasonal variation. The distribution of η in other ocean areas remained relatively stable, with nonsignificant seasonal changes. This study demonstrates the significant contributions of BGC-Argo observations in enhancing remote sensing estimation of global ocean η values, thereby providing valuable support for biogeochemical cycling research.
Improving the reconstruction accuracy of tomographic absorption spectroscopy sensor by optimizing laser beam arrangements
Authors: Yu Pengfei , Wang Ruifeng , Chen Zhao , Huang Tianxu , Mei Jiaoxu , Wang Guishi , Gao Xiaoming , Liu Kun
Published: January 2025

Tomographic absorption spectroscopy (TAS) typically employs multiple projections to reconstruct the spatial distribution of temperature and species concentration, making it a promising method for combustion diagnostics. However, the geometric arrangement of the laser beams significantly affects its accuracy, especially under limited beam conditions. In this work, we propose a beam arrangement optimization method to maximize the utilization efficiency of limited beams, thereby improving reconstruction accuracy in a simpler and more intuitive manner. We designed a cost function that combines the beam number matrix (BNM) and the total weight matrix (TWM). This approach ensures that the maximum number of rays passes through each grid while also maximizing the optical path length in the regions covered by the beam distribution. The optimization is performed using a simulated annealing algorithm to obtain the optimal beam arrangement. For a TAS sensor comprising 12 laser beams, numerical simulations demonstrate that the BNM-TWM optimized beam arrangement achieves lower reconstruction errors across various synthetic temperature fields when compared to traditional orthogonal beam arrangements and those optimized for orthogonality (OD). This improvement is particularly significant when the performance of the orthogonal and OD-optimized arrangements is suboptimal. Finally, we demonstrate the application of the BNM-TWM optimized beam arrangement for reconstructing temperature distributions of asymmetric butane flames, where parallel beam distributions were ineffective. The results effectively pinpoint the location of the flame, showing a temperature difference of less than 3% compared to thermocouple measurements for the center of the flame. These findings indicate that the developed beam arrangement optimization method has the potential to enhance the accuracy of TAS reconstruction under limited beam conditions and could be extended to other tomographic imaging systems.
Phase contrast ghost imaging using pseudo-thermal light
Authors: Hu Junyan , Chen Binglin , Guo Yan , Liu Chonglong , Sun Baoqing
Published: January 2025

Ghost imaging and ghost holography enable non-local imaging of amplitude and phase objects. Recent studies have indicated that dual-arm phase-contrast imaging can be achieved by extracting only the edges of the target, thereby obviating the need for a full image reconstruction. However, existing approaches still depend on either cameras or complex scanning procedures. In this paper, we combine spiral phase contrast imaging with ghost imaging and propose a computational dual-arm phase contrast imaging scheme based on Fourier basis modulation under speckle illumination, with single-point detection used in both arms. Experimental and simulation results validate the feasibility of the proposed scheme and demonstrate its effective implementation under compressed sampling. Furthermore, we also experimentally investigate the impact of the lateral coherence length of the speckle on edge extraction accuracy, as well as the effect of the number of speckles on the imaging signal-to-noise ratio.
Inverse synthetic aperture lidar imaging and compensation in slant weak compressible turbulence
Authors: Xue Jiyu , Wu Hongpeng , Dong Lei
Published: January 2025

To systematically study the effect of oblique compressible turbulence on inverse synthetic aperture lidar (ISAL) imaging, the atmospheric random phase screen with modified compressible turbulence spectrum is numerically simulated by using FFT spectral inversion method. Using Kirchhoff approximation and convolutional inverse projection algorithm, ISAL imaging of rough surfaces (rough square plates and rough circular plates), rough shapes and rough bodies with different roughness under various compressible turbulence intensities is realized. The analysis shows that the stronger the turbulence, the worse the image quality. The phase gradient self-focusing (PGA) algorithm is used to compensate for the ISAL image resolution caused by compressible turbulence. In the case of weak compressible turbulence, the focusing effect of the image is effectively improved, and the shape of the rough target can be basically distinguishable, thus improving the image quality. However, the image interference and damage caused by medium-strong compressible turbulence are relatively large. The useful information about the target is very small, so the only PGA compensation algorithm can’t recover the image of the target.
Applying linear programming in evaluating employees in higher education: A case study
Authors: Ryńca Radoslaw , Ziaeian Yasmin
Published: January 2025

In the past few decades, any type of organization, from factories to government organizations, the banking sector, or educational institutions concentrates on increasing profit margins. To achieve this, one of the key factors is to achieve maximum output with minimum resources (input). Therefore, having an optimal plan to apply the resources has become extremely important for organizations. One of the relevant resources is Human resources. This paper presents a mathematical model as an aid for optimizing human resources in the higher education sector. The model includes seven stages: 1) determining the availability of research and teaching staff, 2) evaluating the research and teaching staff from the perspective of different stakeholders, 3) determining the cost of the availability of research and teaching staff, 4) examining the motivated employees, 5) developing a staff ranking, 6) developing the mathematical model, and 7) implementing the mathematical model.