bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Significance of Risk Factor Analysis in Pancreatic Cancer by Using Supervised Model of Machine Learning
Authors: Sherchan Amir , Feng Jin , Sherchan Bhakti , Mandal Sujit Kumar , Regmi Binit Upadhaya , Ghising Ranita , Upadhaya Sandesh Raj , Gautam Bishnu , Pathak Dipendra , Quan Li Mao
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Particularly pancreatic cancer, poses a significant global health challenge due to its high mortality rates despite advancements in treatment. Early detection remains crucial as most cases are diagnosed at late stages when surgical intervention is no longer viable. We focused to identify relevant risk factors of pancreatic cancer. Our goal was to determine pertinent risk factors for pancreatic cancer. The best machine learning model was used for risk scoring in pancreatic cancer based on those risk factors and determine their diagnostic value. Methods: We conducted a matched case-control study, retrospectively collecting demographic data and common haemato-logical indicators from all participants. Best model of machine learning among SVM and Logistic regression was chosen to identify risk factors for pancreatic cancer after initial variable selection by dendrogram. Based on these factors, we created a best model for risk scoring in pancreatic cancer and showed higher diagnostic value. Result: 353 cases and 370 controls were finally participated in our study. The discoveries of our machine learning logistic regression with backward elimination showed that Haemoglobin A1c (OR 1.28, 95%CI: 1.08,1.52), Alkaline phosphatase (OR 1.02, 95%CI: 1.01,1.03), CA19-9 (OR 1.01, 95%CI: 1.01,1.01), and Carcinoembryonic antigen (OR 1.41, 95%CI: 1.2,1.66) were related to an expanded risk of PC, while BMI (OR 0.88, 95%CI: 0.81,0.97) were asso-ciated with a diminished risk of PC. Based on these outcomes, the clinical PC for risk scoring was well fitted in the modelled populace, and the score had strong predictive worth with area under receiver operating curve was 0.969 (P < 0.001) which showed higher diagnostic value. Conclusion: HbA1C, ALP, BMI, CA19-9 and CEA levels were associated with the risk of PC. The risk scoring scale (nomogram) might be useful in clinical PC screening as a diagnostic tool by supervised ma-chine learning.
About the Sustainable Future of Education in Romania According to the “Romania Educata” Project – a Critical, Comparative and Constructive Analysis
Authors: (Bucuroiu) Ionela Luminita Canuta , Ioana Adrian , Constantin Nicolae , Semenescu Augustin , (Manolescu) Daniela Alice Luta
Published: December 2024

This article presents and analyzes the main aspects and desiderates of the educational project "Romania Educata” The article subscribes to the two famous quotes: "The more teachers are the samsars of science" (Nicolae Iorga) and " Education is the path from cocky ignorance to miserable uncertainty" (Mark Twain). Thus, in the article are critically and comparatively analyzed mainly the following aspects: detailed strategies on the following priority themes (teaching career; equity of the education system; professionalization of educational management; a quality vocational and technical education; autonomy, quality and internationalization in higher education; early childhood education accessible to all; evaluation of pupils and students). The project was funded through the European Union Reform Support Programme and implemented between 2018 – 2019 together with the European Commission. This, last one, from subcontracted the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to elaboration of the four public policy briefs provided for in the project (teaching career, educational management, equity, early education). The "Romania Educata" project would be had to constitute the largest and longest-lasting public consultation action carried out until now in the field of public policies in education in Romania. Unfortunately, the purpose of this project was not touched. The biggest deficiency of this project was and is the major underfunding of educational system in Romania.
System Analysis and Comparison Between a 2 Mw Conventional Liquid Cooling System and a Novel Two-Phase Cooling System for Fuel Cell Powered Aircraft
Authors: van Gerner Henk Jan , Luten Tim , Resende William , Mühlthaler Georg , Buntz Marcus-Benedict
Published: December 2024

In the EU funded BRAVA project, technologies for a Fuel Cell based Power Generation System for aviation are being developed. In this paper, the analysis of a 2 MW cooling system is dis-cussed. A comparison is made between a conventional liquid cooling system with Ethylene Glycol Water (EGW) and a novel two-phase cooling system, which uses the evaporation of a liq-uid to remove waste heat from the fuel cells. The mass of a liquid EGW system is 35% higher than for two-phase methanol with accumulator and 2.4 times higher than for two-phase metha-nol without accumulator.
A Practical Human-Centric Risk Management (Hrm) Methodology
Authors: Kioskli Kitty , Seralidou Eleni , Polemi Nineta
Published: December 2024

Various standards (e.g., ISO 27000x, ISO 31000:2018) and methodologies (e.g., NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-37, NIST SP 800-161, ETSI TS 102 165-1, NISTIR 8286) are available for risk assessment. However, these standards often overlook the human element. Studies have shown that adversary profiles (AP), which detail the maturity of attackers, significantly affect vulnerability assessments and risk calculations. Similarly, the maturity of the users interacting with the ICT system in adopting security practices impacts risk calculations. In this paper, we identify and estimate the maturity of user profiles (UP) and propose an enhanced risk assessment methodology, HRM (based on ISO 27001), that incorporates the human element in the risk evaluation. Social measures, such as awareness programs, training, and behavioral interventions, alongside technical controls, are included in the HRM risk treatment phase. These measures enhance user security hygiene and resilience, reducing risks and ensuring comprehensive security strategies in SMEs.
Chemical Characterization and Analysis of Microbiological Constituents, Heavy Metals, and Pesticides in Non-Psychoactive Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) Inflorescences and Extracts from Ecuador
Authors: Solís-García Hugo , Vargas-Delgado Luis , De la Rosa-Martínez Andrés , Suntaxi-Crisanto Stalin , Londoño-Larrea Pablo , González-Benítez David , Montúfar-Delgado Carlos
Published: December 2024

The present study focused on the extraction and characterization of phytochemical compounds from non-psychoactive varieties of Cannabis sativa L. (<1% w/w of Δ9-THC on a dry basis) cultivated in Ecuador, evaluating their therapeutic and food potential by different extraction methods. The analyses comprised six varieties: Cherry Oregon, Titan, Cherry Bubblegum, Lemonge, Medicinal Emerald 16, and Medicinal Emerald 19. The research included the identification of secondary metabolites such as cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, polyphenols, and tannins, as well as a comprehensive analysis of heavy metals, microbiology, and pesticides. The extraction method and operating conditions significantly influenced the yield and quality of secondary metabolites. Three extraction methods were employed: maceration, ultrasound, and supercritical fluids with CO2. The ultrasonic extraction process presented the highest yield for the Titan variety (17.44% w/w ± 0.19%). The highest CBD concentration occurred with supercritical fluids in the Cherry Oregon variety (44.65% w/w ± 4.06%). In terms of terpenes, the Cherry Bubblegum variety presented the highest concentrations of caryophyllene (320.79 ppm), humulene (73.84 ppm), bisabolol (143.57 ppm), myrcene (42.17 ppm), and nerolidol (37.35 ppm) using supercritical fluids. Polyphenols, flavonoids, and total tannins reached their highest concentrations in Lemonge (130.91 mg/g), Cherry Bubblegum (2.28% w/w), and Medicinal Emerald 16 (0.99% w/w), respectively. Pesticide analysis confirmed the product's safety, suggesting adequate use of organic fertilizers. However, the concentration of heavy metals, specifically Pb, Cd, and Cr, exceeded the permitted limits in some varieties, highlighting the need for stricter crop controls. In conclusion, the research achieved a detailed characterization of non-psychoactive cannabis flower extracts grown at over 2450 m.a.s.l. in Ecuador, highlighting the variability in yield and composition of secondary metabolites according to the extraction method applied.
PARP Inhibition as a Treatment Modality in Melanoma: What We Have Learned and What We Hope to Achieve
Authors: Anaeme Angela , Moussa Karen , Mansour Abdallah N. , Nassief George , Ansstas George
Published: December 2024

Genome integrity is a critical driver of cellular stability, and defects in the processes that maintain genome health are potent sources of cancer progression. Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), which damages cells through absent or erroneous repair of double-stranded DNA breaks, is a prime example of such cellular dysfunction. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors exploit these aberrancies in the cellular repair process by arresting the ability of the PARP enzyme to repair cellular and genetic damage, inducing the accumulation of DNA damage and cancer cell death. While the utility of PARP inhibitors has been established in many HRD-associated tumors — particularly breast, pancreatic, ovarian, and prostate cancer — less robust evidence exists for the efficacy of PARP inhibitors in melanoma. Increasing efforts are underway to investigate PARP inhibitors as a viable treatment option for advanced and metastatic melanoma, both as monotherapy and in combination with other agents such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and BRAF/MEK inhibitors. Though several gaps in our knowledge of the use of PARP inhibitors in melanoma still exist, promising headway is being made in our understanding of its efficacy and safety. Here, we present a review of the utility of PARP inhibitors in melanoma, current clinical trials, and future avenues for further exploration.
On the Extended Simple Equations Method (SEsM) and its Application to the Time--Fractional Diffusive Predator--Prey System Incorporating an Allee Effect
Authors: Nikolova Elena V.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we extend the Simple Equations Method (SEsM) and adapt it to obtain exact solutions of systems of fractional nonlinear partial differential equations (FNPDEs). The novelty in the extended SEsM algorithm is that, in addition to introducing more simple equations in the construction of the solutions of the studied FNPDEs, we assume that the selected simple equations have different independent variables (i.e. different coordinates moving with the wave). As a consequence, nonlinear waves propagating with different wave velocities will be observed. A generalization of the SEsM algorithm is provided, including suggestions for possible solution constructions for the studied equations, potential traveling wave transformations, and types of simple equations that can be used. Several scenarios from the proposed generalized SEsM have been applied to the time-fractional predator--prey model under the Allee effect. Based on this, new analytical solutions have been derived. Numerical simulations of some of these solutions are presented, adequately capturing the expected diverse wave dynamics of predator--prey interactions.
On Present-Day Wildfires: When Law, Society, Nature, and Anthropic Activities Combine. A Multi- to Inter-Disciplinary Analysis
Authors: D'Amico Francesco , Dimartino Antonio
Published: December 2024

Social sciences are constantly developing, and new challenges posed by climate change and the intricate relationship between mankind and the environment are resulting into new approaches to various socio-juridical issues. However, these approaches are challenged by phenomena showing a dual natural-anthropic origin, such as wildfires. Where to draw the line between a natural event that helped shaping landscapes and contributed to the evolution of terrestrial organisms for hundreds of millions of years, and anthropic-driven natural disasters which are all but indistinguishable from actual crimes? These questions lead to new multi- to inter-disciplinary evaluation processes meant to characterize wildfires from several standpoints, each with a contribution from a specific discipline. Via one such approach, this paper demonstrates that – at least in the context of the European Union – heterogeneous laws and regulations should indeed focus more on the link between large anthropic wildfires and natural disasters. Furthermore, the effects of wildfire-related pollutants on both the climate and human health should be accounted for in rulings.
Homogeneity of Electro-Mechanical and Optical Characteristics in Ring-Shaped MEMS Shutter Arrays with Subfield Addressing for Interference Microscopy
Authors: Kästner Philipp , Elsaka Basma , Iskhandar Mustaqim Siddi Que , Liebermann Steffen , Donatiello Roland , Liu Shujie , Hillmer Hartmut
Published: December 2024

We present a MEMS-array-based approach for micro irises called “ring shutter”, utilizing subfield addressing for applications in advanced micro-optics such as interference microscopy. The study is focused on investigating the homogeneity of electro-mechanical and optical characteristics within and between subfields of a lab demonstrator device. The characterisation aims to ensure cross-talk-free and swift optical performance demonstrated in a previous study. For this purpose, the transmission in the initial state, actuation voltages, and response dynamics are measured per each electrode as well as for the whole device and thoroughly compared. The measurements are conducted by expanding an existing optical actuation setup via tailored 3D-printed apertures al-lowing the isolation of selected rings and zones. Evaluation of measurement data confirms the stable and cross-talk free operation of the ring shutter. Both angular and radial homogeneity are robust and follow the expectations in the experiment. While transmission, actuation voltage and closing time slightly rise (up to 25%) with increased radial position represented by five ring sec-tions A – E, the characteristics for the three angular zones 1 – 3 remain nearly constant. Response times are measured below 40 µs, actuation voltages do not exceed 60 V, and the overall transmis-sion of the ring shutter yields 53.6%.
Perception, Trust, and Motivation in Consumer Behavior for Organic Food Acquisition: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Moroșan Elena , Popovici Violeta , Popescu Ioana Andreea , Daraban Adriana , Karampelas Oana , Matac Liviu Marian , Licu Monica , Rusu Andreea , Chirigiu Larisa Marina Elisabeth , Oprițescu Sînziana , Ioniță Elena Iuliana , Saulean Alina , Nitescu Maria
Published: December 2024

A sustainable healthy diet aims to assess human well-being in all life stages at the physical, mental, and social levels, protect environmental resources, and preserve bio-diversity. This work investi-gates the sociodemographic factors, knowledge, trust, and motivations involved in organic food acquisition behavior through a cross-sectional observational study using an online survey via the Google Forms platform, conducted from 01 March to 31 May 2024. The questionnaire was orga-nized into 3 main sections detailing the participants' sociodemographic profile, assessing their perception of organic food, and analyzing eco-food acquisition and consumption behavior. Our findings show that suitably informed people with high educational levels (academic and post-college) report significant satisfaction with organic food consumption (S4 and S5). There is also a considerable correlation between ages 25-65, moderate to high satisfaction (S3-S5), and "yes" for eco-food recommendations. Moderate to high satisfaction levels (S3-S5) are also associated with medium confidence in eco-food labels (C3) and moderate to high income. Our results show that monthly income and residence are not essential factors in higher price perception. Insignificant price variation perception correlated with C4 and weekly acquisition. Similar price perception substan-tially correlates with C5 and daily acquisition. Lower price perception strongly correlates with minimal confidence and monthly acquisition. Organic foods have evident benefits in obesity treatment and BMI diminution; however, obese respondents exhibited minimal satisfaction and opted for "abstention" from eco-food recommendations. The findings suggest that investing in public information, educational campaigns, and other strategies to support local organic food producers is essential for increasing interest in eco-food consumption. The present study could en-rich the current scientific database with data collected and a deep analysis of knowledge, percep-tion, attitude, trust, and motivation involved in Romanian consumer behavior for eco-food acqui-sition. Further exploratory studies will be conducted on older participants with different chronic diseases to investigate all aspects of organic food consumption.
Combination of the Modified Models for End-Stage Liver Disease and sST2/LVMI Ratio Predicts Mortality in the Patients with Advanced Heart Failure
Authors: Szczurek-Wasilewicz Wioletta , Jurkiewicz Michał , Skrzypek Michał , Romuk Ewa , Jóźwiak Jacek , Gąsor Mariusz , Szyguła-Jurkiewicz Bożęna
Published: December 2024

Biomarkers in heart failure (HF) management are critical for enhancing diagnostic accuracy, monitoring therapeutic response and assessing the risk of death. The aim of the study was to assess risk factors for one-year mortality in patients with advanced HF, with particular emphasis on the soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2/left ventricular mass index (sST2/LVMI) ratio, modified Model for End-stage Liver Disease (modMELD) and Model for End-stage Liver Disease excluding INR (MELD-XI). We propectively analyzed 429 adult patients with advanced HF hospitalized between 2018 and 2023. The end-point of the study was defined as all-cause mortality during a one-year follow-up. The median age was 56.0 (50.0–60.0) years; 89.2% were male. During one-year follow-up, 134 (31.2%) patients died. The area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves indicated an excellent prognostic powers of sST2/LVMI-MELDXI (AUC: 0.90 [CI: 0.87-0.93]; sensitivity 80%, and specificity 85%) and sST2/LVMI-modMELD (AUC: 0.92 [95% CI: 0.90-0.95]; sensitivity 81%, and specificity 92%) for assessment of one-year mortality. The multivariable Cox regression model showed that: sST2/LVMI-MELD-XI [HR 2.501 (2.168-2.886) p<0.001], sodium [HR 1.065(1.004-1.130) p=0.036], NT-proBNP [HR 1.004 (1.004-1.007) p=0.008],fibrinogen [HR 1.002 (1.000-1.004) p<0.001], and uric acid [1.001 (1.000-1.002), 0.0426] in first model, and sST2/LVMI-modMELD [HR 2.552 (2.224-2.928) p<0.0001], NT-proBNP [HR 1.005 (1.002-1.008) p=0.002],fibrinogen [HR 1.002 (1.000-1.003) p=0.0099], and uric acid [1.001 (1.000-1.002), 0.0489] in second model were independent risk factors for one- year mortality. The sST2/LVMI-modMELD and sST2/LVMI- MELD-XI ratios are strongly associated with one-year mortality in the patients with advanced HF. Both models have a excellent prognostic powers for an effective separation of one-year survivors from non-survivors. Another independent risk factors for one-year mortality in the analyzed population were higher levels of fibrinogen, uric acid and NT-proBNP, as well as lower sodium levels.
Age-Related Dysregulation of α5β1 and αvβ3 Integrin Activity Alters CONTRACTILE properties of Trabecular Meshwork Cells
Authors: Johns Kassidy L. , Faralli Jennifer A. , Filla Mark S. , Shah Nandini S. , Sun Ying Ying , Keller Kate E. , Peters Donna M.
Published: December 2024

Age is a major risk factor for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), an ocular disease associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) due to the restricted outflow of aqueous humor fluid from the anterior chamber. This restriction is caused by an induction of fibrogenic pathways that increase deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and alter the contractile properties of trabecular meshwork (TM) cells. Integrins, a family of heterodimeric cell surface receptors that bind ECM, play a key role in regulating fibrogenic pathways. In this study, we investigated whether age-related changes in integrin subunit expression and activity signifies an early event in initiating fibrotic-like changes in the TM. TM cells were isolated from young and old human donor eyes. Flow cytometry, RT-PCR, and immunofluorescent microscopy revealed a significant decrease in α5 integrin expression in TM cells from older individuals. This loss was accompanied by an increase in activated, but not total αvβ3 integrin in focal adhesions. TM cells from older donors expressed higher levels of αSMA mRNA, assembled αSMA-containing stress fibers, and contracted collagen gels significantly more than young TM cells. TM cells from old donors also assembled higher levels of insoluble fibronectin fibrils and contained higher levels of the EDB+ isoform of fibronectin in their ECM. shRNA knockdown of α5 integrin subunits showed that the increase in αvβ3 integrin activity was due to lower levels of α5 integrin expression. These studies suggest that age-related dysregulation of α5β1 and αvβ3 integrin signaling may represent an important early molecular event in inducing fibrogenic pathways associated with POAG.
Clinical and Radiological Outcome of Posterior Cervical Fusion using Philips AlluraXper FD20 Angiography Suite
Authors: Dolp Armando , Khamis Abdussalam , Fandino Javier , Kienzler and Jenny C.
Published: December 2024

Background: Posterior cervical fusion (PCF) is widely used for cervical spinal cord decompres-sion with/without fusion. In our hybrid operating room, intraoperative computed tomography (iCT) is routinely used to verify screw placement. This study analyzed clinical and radiological outcomes after PCF and evaluated iCT benefits for detecting screw misplacement.
Methods: Nineteen patients underwent PCF between March 2012 and April 2016 for degenerative (n=6), neoplastic (n=7), and traumatic (n=6) conditions. Seven patients had primary PCF, while twelve underwent PCF following anterior fusion due to segmental instability with cervical malalignment (n=11) or tumor progression (n=1).
Results: Mean patient age was 59±11 years, with 63% male patients. Median follow-up was 21 months. PCF averaged 4.74 segments (range: 1-9). At follow-up, 79% reported pain improvement and normal sensorimotor function. Of six patients with preoperative paresis, five showed im-proved muscle strength. No persistent gait disturbances occurred. Complications requiring revi-sion occurred in four patients (21%): three surgical site infections and one cerebrospinal fluid leak. One perioperative death occurred (5%). iCT detected incorrect screw placement in seven pa-tients (36%), allowing immediate repositioning of eight screws, preventing later revision surger-ies. Overall fusion rate was 92%.
Conclusions: PCF with iCT is safe and effective for various cervical spine pathologies, yielding good long-term clinical outcomes. iCT effectively detects and enables immediate correction of screw malposition, reducing revision surgery needs. This imaging modality demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity for identifying clinically relevant screw malpositions.
Study of Eco-Friendly Unhairing of Skins Using Only Plant-Based Residues
Authors: Morera Josep Maria , Bartolí Esther , Canudas Miquel , Valle Luís J. del
Published: December 2024

The replacement of sodium sulfide/hydrogen sulfide as unhairing agents in the tanning process is one of the objectives of many recent researches due to its obvious environmental benefits and the potential for improving working conditions. On the other hand, the use of agri-food wastes is one of the main objectives of the circular economy. The objective of this research was to demonstrate that an unhairing agent could be obtained from two highly abundant agri-food wastes (wheat bran and oat bran). For this purpose, their maceration processes were optimized to obtain two aqueous extracts with unhairing properties. From these, bacterial strains, that were able to produce an enzyme or set of enzymes with the best unhairing properties, were obtained. It was concluded that from the two agri-food wastes tested it is possible to obtain effective unhairing agents. The results pave the way for further research to develop a new enzymatic agent that will allow the industrial unhairing of hides without the need to use sodium sulfide/hydrogen sulfide.
Personalizing Breast Cancer Surgery: Harnessing the Power of ROME (Radiological and Oncoplastic Multidisciplinary Evaluation)
Authors: Barone Adesi Liliana , Salgarello Marzia , Di Leone Alba , Visconti Giuseppe , Conti Marco , Belli Paolo , Scardina Lorenzo , Tarantino Giulio , Franceschini Gianluca
Published: December 2024

Breast cancer treatment has evolved significantly over the past decades, with personalized care models gaining prominence to optimize both oncological outcomes and aesthetic results. At the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS in Rome, Italy, we have developed a multidisciplinary, evidence-based model for managing of breast cancer patients, called ROME (Radiological and Oncoplastic Multidisciplinary Evaluation). This innovative model integrates the expertise of various specialists in a seamless, patient-centered approach to improve treatment planning and outcomes. ROME involves a collaborative framework between radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, oncoplastic specialists and psychologists. The process begins with the detailed radiological evaluation of the tumor using advanced imaging techniques, which is then complemented by an oncoplastic assessment to evaluate potential surgical approaches that ensure optimal oncological resection while preserving or enhancing breast aesthetics. The combination of these evaluations allows the team to tailor treatment plans according to the patient’s specific clinical profile, including tumor characteristics, genetic factors, and aesthetic considerations.A key feature of the ROME model is the continuous integration of evidence-based guidelines with real-time multidisciplinary input. This enables the personalization of the surgical strategy ensuring that each patient receives a treatment plan that balances the need for effective cancer control with the desire for an optimal aesthetic result. Since its implementation, ROME has demonstrated a significant improvement in both oncological and cosmetic outcomes leading to enhanced patient satisfaction and quality of life. The success of ROME underscores the importance of a holistic and collaborative approach to breast cancer treatment, one that integrates clinical, radiological, and aesthetic perspectives to offer a truly personalized and patient-focused care experience. As evidence continues to accumulate, ROME stands as a model for personalized breast cancer surgery, setting a new standard for care in multidisciplinary oncology settings.
Seasonal Variations in the Structure and Function of the Gut Flora in Adult Male Rhesus Macaques Reared in Outdoor Colonies
Authors: Lv Longbao , Zhang Feiyan , Zhou Haimei , Xiao Wenxian , Hu Yingzhou , Wang Wenchao , Zhu Zhu , Zhu Fangming , Qin Dongdong , Hu Xintian
Published: December 2024

The seasonal variations that occur in the gut microbiota of healthy adult rhesus monkeys kept in outdoor groups under conventional rearing patterns, and how these variations are affected by environmental variables, are relatively poorly understood. In this study, we collected 120 fecal samples from 30 adult male rhesus monkeys kept in outdoor groups across four seasons and recorded the temperature and humidity of the housing facilities as well as the proportions of fruit and vegetables in their diet. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis showed that the alpha diversity of the gut microbiota of the rhesus monkeys was higher in winter and spring than in summer and autumn. Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) also revealed significant seasonal differences in the structure and function of the gut microbiota in the rhesus monkeys. The phyla Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes and the genus Prevotella 9 were the significantly dominant groups in all 120 fecal samples from the rhesus monkeys. Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) Effect Size (LEfSe) analysis (LDA > 4) indicated that, at the phylum level, Firmicutes was significantly enriched in winter, Bacteroidetes was significantly enriched in summer, and Proteobacteria and Campylobacter were significantly enriched in spring. At the genus level, Helicobacter and Ralstonia were significantly enriched in spring; Prevotella 9, Streptococcus, and Prevotella were significantly enriched in summer, and UCG_005 was significantly enriched in autumn. The beneficial genera Lactobacillus, Limosilactobacillus, and Ligilactobacillus, and the beneficial species Lactobacillus johnsonii, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus murinus, and Lactobacillus amylovorus, all showed the same seasonal trend, namely, their average relative abundance was significantly higher in winter than in other seasons. Compared with other seasons, carbohydrate metabolic function was significantly upregulated in winter (p < 0.01), amino acid metabolic function was relatively increased in spring, and energy metabolic function and the metabolic function of cofactors and vitamins were significantly downregulated in winter and relatively upregulated in summer. Variance partitioning analysis (VPA) and redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that the proportions of fruits and vegetables in the diet, but not climatic factors (temperature and humidity), significantly influenced the seasonal changes in the gut microbiota. These variations were related to changes in the proportions of fruits and vegetables. This study provides new evidence relating to how external environmental factors affect the intestinal environment of rhesus monkeys.
Design Parameters Affecting the Performance of Vortex-Induced Vibration Harvesters
Authors: Pasetto Alberto , Tonan Michele , Moro Federico , Doria Alberto
Published: December 2024

Vortex-induced vibration harvesters are usually equipped with small piezoelectric patches mounted near the cantilever clamp, where the largest longitudinal stress occurs. This paper investigates the possibility of extending the patch length in order to improve the energy harvesting performance. A novel analytical model based on dimensionless numbers is presented to determine the output voltage generated by a vibration harvester subjected to periodic vortex shedding. This model shows that both voltage and stored energy reaches maximum for an optimal length, and provides guidance to the interpretation of experimental results. Experimental tests, comparing different harvester designs, investigate the effect on the performance of the harvester of the patch length and of both length and mass of the bluff body mounted on the harvester to induce vortex shedding.
Ecosystem Health Assessment of the Zerendy District, Kazakhstan
Authors: Alipbeki Onggarbek , Grossul Pavel , Rakhimov Daniyar , Kupidura Przemyslaw , Alipbekova Chaimgul , Musaif Gauhar , Turekeldiyeva Rimma , Augambaev Kairat , Begaliyeva Maira
Published: December 2024

Ecosystem Health Assessment (EHA) is essential for comprehensively improving the ecological environment and socio-economic conditions, thereby promoting sustainable development of a specific area. Most previous EHA studies have focused on urbanized regions, paying insufficient attention to rural areas with urban enclaves and national natural parks. This study employed the Basic-Pressure-State-Response methodological approach. The composition of indicators (35) encompassed both spatiotemporal data and socio-economic information. The Random Forest algorithm was used on the Google Earth Engine platform to classify and evaluate changes in Land Use and Land Cover (LULC). In addition, weighting coefficients were calculated, and driving factors were subsequently identified. The analysis revealed that the rural administrative divisions in the central part of Zerendy district, where the city of Kokshetau is situated, exhibited a relatively low level of Ecosystem Health (EH). The southwestern rural administrative divisions of the studied district, where the national nature park and the reserve territories are located, exhibited a higher level of EH. Other rural administrative divisions located in the eastern parts of the district generally exhibited a moderate level of EH. Interested managers can use the results of our assessment to implement adequate measures aimed at improving the health of the Zerendy district ecosystem.
Strained Graphene as Pristine Graphene with Deformed
Momentum Operator
Authors: Raya Alfredo , Valenzuela David , García Muñoz Juan Domingo
Published: December 2024

We explore the equivalence between the low-energy dynamics of strained graphene and a quantum mechanical framework for the 2D-Dirac equation in flat space with deformed momentum operator. By considering some common forms of the anisotropic Fermi velocity tensor emerging from elasticity theory, we associate such tensor form to a deformation of the momentum operator. We first explore the bound states of charge carriers in a background uniform magnetic field in this framework and quantify the impact of strain in the energy spectrum. Then, we use a quadrature algebra as a mathematical tool to analyze the impact of the deformation attached to the momentum operator and identify physical consequences of such deformation in terms of energy modifications due to the applied strain.
Optimizing Heat Pump Control in an NZEB via Model Predictive Control and Building Simulation
Authors: Baumann Christian , Wohlgenannt Philipp , Streicher Wolfgang , Kepplinger Peter
Published: December 2024

EU regulations get stricter from 2028 on by imposing net-zero energy building (NZEB) standards on new residential buildings including on-site renewable energy integration. Heat pumps (HP) using thermal building mass, and Model Predictive Control (MPC) provide a viable solution to this problem. However, the MPC potential in NZEBs considering the impact on indoor comfort have not yet been investigated comprehensively. Therefore, we present a co-simulative approach combining MPC optimization and IDA ICE building simulation. The demand response (DR) potential of a ground-source HP and the long-term indoor comfort in an NZEB located in Vorarlberg, Austria over a one year period are investigated. Optimization is performed using Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) based on a simplified RC model. The HP in the building simulation is controlled by power signals obtained from the optimization. The investigation shows reductions for electricity cost by up to 49% for HP, by up to 5% for the building, and an increase of the PV self-consumption by up to 4% pt. in two distinct optimization scenarios. Moreover, compared to the reference PI controller, the MPC scenarios provided more consistent and more reliable indoor comfort by reducing fluctuating room temperatures and maintaining stable indoor conditions. Especially precooling strategies mitigated overheating risks in summer and ensured indoor comfort according to EN 16798-1 class II standards.
Virtual Reality and Simulation as Tools for Enhancing Understanding of Tactical Urbanism
Authors: Seghetto Italo , Lopes Ricardo , Lima Fernando
Published: December 2024

This article investigates the use of virtual reality (VR) to enhance the understanding of tactical urbanism (TU) projects, addressing the broader challenge of effectively communicating and evaluating these temporary, low-cost urban interventions. The study aims to assess how VR can be integrated with TU to offer a more immersive and comprehensive understanding than traditional methods. To this end, we conducted a thorough literature review on spatial perception, TU, and VR, followed by an empirical experiment involving college students from a Brazilian institution. These students visited a tactical urbanism installation both physically and virtually. Their experiences were reported and analyzed according to the AR4CUP: Augmented Reality for Collaborative Urban Planning protocol, a methodology developed by a multidisciplinary team that uses questionnaires to collect data on participants' sensations, essential for describing and interpreting their experiences. The results indicated that VR positively influences the perception and experiences of urban spaces, highlighting the importance of social interaction and recreational activities. The study reinforces that VR is a valuable tool for understanding tactical urbanism projects and contributes to developing more effective and enriching urban environments.
Prescribed Burns to Reduce Early-Stage Shrub Encroachment in Semiarid Grasslands
Authors: Alfaro Reyna Teresa , De la Cruz Domínguez Juan Carlos , Aguirre Gutierrez Carlos Alberto , Luna Luna Miguel , Flores-Rentería Dulce , Delgado Balbuena Josué
Published: December 2024

Wildfire is a key factor in regulating ecological processes in grassland ecosystems; however, changes in land use/cover have modified the intensity and frequency of fires as occurred naturally. Different factors have caused a rise in woody vegetation in these ecosystems, leading to changes in species composition, diversity, and biogeochemical cycles. The prescribed burns are a tool for controlling and eradicating shrubs; however, its effectiveness depends on vegetation composition, biomass availability, and the objectives of restoration. We evaluate the effectiveness of fire as a shrub controller in a semiarid grassland ecosystem. We measured several shrub dasometric pa-rameters and the percentage of damage in ten 2000 m2 plots, three months after a prescribed burning was performed. Both crown height and width, and total height were the main variables that explained the percentage of shrub damage by fire. Individuals with a height greater than 1.6 m and wide crowns, did not suffer damage. Moreover, even though 96% of the total shrubs presented some fire damage, 60% recovered after the rain period. Our results show that fire could be an effective strategy to control early-growing shrubs, but on overgrazed arid lands it would be difficult to have enough biomass for implementing burning programs.
Tailgut Cyst – Gynecologist’s Pitfall: Literature Review and Case Report
Authors: Malutan Andrei Mihai , Suciu Viorela-Elena , Ignat Florin Laurentiu , Diculescu Doru , Ciortea Razvan , Boțan Emil-Claudiu , Bucuri Carmen Elena , Roman Maria Patricia , Nati Ionel , Ormindean Cristina , Mihu Dan
Published: December 2024

Retrorectal cystic hamartomas (“Tailgut cysts”) are rare developmental cysts that appear in the retrorectal space, arising from aberrant remnants of the post-anal primitive gut in case of an incomplete embryogenetic involution. We present the case of a 30-year-old woman with a history of chronic lower abdominal pain. Other digestive symptoms, like rectal fullness, constipation, pain on defecation, rectal bleeding or genitourinary obstruction symptoms were not associated. During a period of 3 years she had undergone several surgical procedures for ovarian cysts, without relieving the symptomatology. CT scan showed a presacral tumor with a right pararectal development. A surgical resection of the lesion using an anterior approach was performed, with the final pathological diagnosis of a retrorectal cystic hamartoma (“tailgut cyst”). This case underlines the fact that retrorectal masses can be challenging to diagnose and tailgut cysts must be taken into consideration in cases of perirectal tumors at patients with a history of multiple failed procedures and surgeries.
Design Guidelines for Additively Manufactured Stiffening Structures to Reduce Vibrations in Milling
Authors: Niedermeyer Jens , Schlenker Fabian , Huuk Julia , Ehlers Tobias , Denkena Berend , Lachmayer Roland
Published: December 2024

Hybrid processes of additive and subtractive manufacturing offer designers the potential to develop complex, lightweight parts by additive manufacturing coupled with superior surface quality and tolerance by subsequent machining. The thin-walled additive structures tend to deflect while machining due to static and dynamic effects. With the design for additive manufacturing, additional stiffening structures can be included to reduce vibrations. This work investigates the design of additively manufactured stiffening structures for vibration reduction in the milling of thin-walled parts. A vibration analysis of a probe geometry is simulatively performed to identify significant design parameters. From the outer dimensions, the height of a stiffening structure shows the highest influence, followed by the length. With larger stiffening structures, the mass rises, so a tradeoff between deformation reduction and additional material is necessary. Over the parameters length, width, and height, the deformation can be reduced by a factor of 800 while a mass increase of 4.82 %. Stiffening structures shall be positioned against the excitation direction of the milling force. Over the parameters quantity, position, and distance, a deformation reduction of 185 for a mass increase of 7.11 % can be realized. The paper concludes with design guidelines for additively manufactured stiffening structures.
Evaluating the Position of Côte d'Ivoire's Cocoa Industry on the Global Production Chain and the Influencing Factors
Authors: Dago Dogo Armand , Yu Pei
Published: December 2024

This research explores the dynamics of Côte d’Ivoire’s cocoa industry within the global production chain from 1960 to 2024. Employing a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM), it examines the impact of key economic and environmental factors, including gross cocoa production, cocoa bean prices, GDP, domestic cocoa grindings, rainfall, and temperature, on cocoa bean exports. By unraveling short- and long-term relationships, the study highlights how economic variables propel exports while climatic factors exacerbate production vulnerabilities. Incorporating rigorous econometric methods and extending a comparative analysis with Ghana enriches the understanding of regional dynamics, emphasizing the interplay between macroeconomic stability and agricultural sustainability. The findings propose actionable strategies to enhance global competitiveness, such as promoting value addition through domestic cocoa grindings and adopting climate-resilient farming practices. This study uniquely integrates climatic and economic variables using advanced econometric techniques, offering novel insights into the dynamics of Côte d’Ivoire’s cocoa industry and its global competitiveness.
A Rare and Challenging Ectopic Variceal Hemorrhage ‐ Case Report
Authors: Pavel Christopher , Bogu Cosmin Viorel , Rinja Ecaterina , Turcescu Andrei , Plotogea Oana Mihaela
Published: December 2024

Ectopic variceal bleeding is a rare, but regrettably life-threatening complication of hepatic cirrhosis. Throughout this paper, we present the case of a 52-year-old patient with decompensated alcoholic cirrhosis, who was admitted for melena. Upper and lower endoscopy failed to identify the source of bleeding. Ultimately, an evaluation with endoscopic capsule identified ileal varices. The patient was referred to surgery and the outcome was successful. In the discussion section, we approached the diagnostic and therapeutic arsenals in managing ectopic varices. In conclusion, although ectopic varices bleeding has a high fatal potential, prompt intervention in a multidisciplinary team could be the key for patient salvation.
On possibility of nucleosynthesis during accretion on a compact star
Authors: Aksenov Aleksey Gennadievich , Baranov Andrey Alekseevich , Filina Anastasia Alekseevna , Chechetkin Valery Mihailovich
Published: December 2024

Constructing a quantitative model of disk accretion on a neutron star, we obtain high densities and temperatures that are interesting for considering nucleosynthesis. The aim of the research is to present two mechanisms of deceleration of rotating accreting matter around a neutron star: a Kepler disk with the development of large-scale vortex structures due to tidal effects and a boundary layer with mass influx during the development of small-scale instability. For the parameters obtained for the accreting matter, we discuss the possibility of nucleosynthesis.
Influencia de la educación física en niños de tercer grado de primaria
Authors: Ortiz Santana Tania Griselda , Pérez Piñón Francisco Alberto
Published: December 2024

El presente artículo reseña una investigación realizada para demostrar la necesidad de combatir la obesidad en México, a través de la adquisición de hábitos saludables en centros educativos de nivel básico. Es discutible que actualmente no se preste debida importancia a esta problemática, ya que, a nivel básico, se dedica entre 10 y 15% del tiempo escolar total a Actividades Físicas (AF) o recreativas, lo cual puede crear un ambiente sedentario que propicia la obesidad (Hall-López, Ochoa-Martínez, Mcías, Zuñiga y Sáenz-López, 2018).
Presea Gawí Tónara, pilares del mundo
Authors: Arceo Dolores Araceli
Published: December 2024

El pasado mes de octubre, en el marco del XV Festival Internacional Chihuahua FICH 2019, el doctor Víctor Orozco fue distinguido por sus aportaciones sobre la memoria histórica y cultura regional, con la presea Gawí Tónara, pilares del mundo, otorgada por la Secretaria de Cultura del Gobierno del Estado.
Mi lugar
Authors: García Agustín
Published: December 2024

Fragmento:
Mi lugar es un retazo de arcilla,
pegado al alma y a los pies.
Siempre viaja conmigo, como la foto de un hermano entrañable;
me lleva como alfombra fabulosa del Oriente.
Lavar, limpiar, planchar, cocinar
Authors: Robles Rosalba
Published: December 2024

En esta ocasión inicio con una autorreferencia, abordando un poco lo personal, tomando de pretexto el libro que aquí nos convoca a propósito del trabajo del hogar y con el que, seguro, muchas de quienes lo puedan leer, encontrarán similitudes con las que podrán identificarse.
Identidad fronteriza y arte urbano binacional de Ciudad Juárez y El Paso
Authors: Fernández Chavéz Rosita , Beltrán Henríquez Patricia Andrea
Published: December 2024

El siguiente artículo se enmarca dentro de un estudio sobre el proceso creativo de las producciones artísticas de los colectivos urbanos fronterizos Puro Borde, Rezizte y LosDos, de El Paso, Texas (US), y Ciudad Juárez (Méx.), mediante una metodología cualitativa que favorece el diálogo entre los artistas y sus obras. Que busca interpretar en las narrativas de las/os artistas, la manera en que representan en sus obras, ideas, tópicos, ideologías, hechos y problemáticas sociales en un contexto cultural binacional, y la forma en que se apropian, significan y transforman la identidad fronteriza.
Víctor Hugo Rascón Banda en el teatro costarricense
Authors: Salazar-Zeledón Carlos
Published: December 2024

Esta es una historia de fronteras, de zonas liminales y teatrales (que a veces son lo mismo y a veces lo opuesto). Una historia de la relación de más de veinte años entre Víctor Hugo Rascón Banda y el teatro costarricense; un pequeño recuento de montajes, viajes y anécdotas de una historia que a veces parece que se terminó, pero que de una o de otra forma logra seguir viva en los escenarios.
La importancia de la inmigración en el mercado laboral americano
Authors: Rodríguez-Sánchez José Iván
Published: December 2024

La inmigración ha sido un tema controvertido en los Estados Unidos por décadas. Los críticos de la migración han querido establecer, erróneamente, que los trabajadores inmigrantes impactan negativamente a los trabajadores nativos en los Estados Unidos. Argumentan que los inmigrantes desplazan a estos trabajadores y deprimen sus salarios. Además, la retórica del expresidente Donald Trump, al llamar a los trabajadores indocumentados criminales, asesinos y violadores, crea un ambiente hostil e impide entender, primero, las causas por las que ellos emigran de sus países a los Estados Unidos y, segundo, la importancia que los inmigrantes, documentados e indocumentados, tienen para la economía de los Estados Unidos.