bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Navigating the Post-Pandemic Normal: Learning from the Experiences of Cyprus-Based Female Researchers during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Antoniou Josephina , Kornioti Nadia , Antoniou Katerina
Published: May 2024

The article addresses the new normal for female researchers in the post-pandemic era by utilising information collected from the pandemic period, when disruption to ‘business as usual’ occurred. This information can inform a new normal that is as efficient, resilient, and ethical as possible. The research employs a case study methodology, with qualitative data collection and analysis approaches. To understand the circumstances faced by researchers in Cyprus during the pandemic, it was necessary to approach several scientists from different research areas and try to understand their experiences through conversations. The set of notes compiled from the completion of the informal conversations were analysed using thematic analysis. Three themes were identified: (a) misperceptions of flexibility in researchers’ schedules and workload, (b) lack of flexibility in adjusting expected outcomes or timelines, and (c) inability to compartmentalise personal and professional life. To better contextualise these findings, the study additionally explored survey results published by the European Commission on relevant topics, enabling a critical juxtaposition of the European perspective to the Cyprus-based findings of these pandemic-induced challenges. The study highlights significant misconceptions and overlooked dynamics regarding research conducted in times of crisis and offers avenues for ensuring research quality in analogous future scenarios.
The Effect of Static Apnea Diving Training on the Physiological Parameters of People with a Sports Orientation and Sedentary Participants: A Pilot Study
Authors: Bezruk Dmitriy , Bahenský Petr , Marko David , Krajcigr Miroslav , Bahenský Petr , Novák-Nowická Eva , Mrkvička Tomáš
Published: May 2024

Diver training improves physical and mental fitness, which can also benefit other sports. This study investigates the effect of eight weeks of static apnea training on maximum apnea time, and on the physiological parameters of runners, swimmers, and sedentary participants, such as forced vital capacity (FVC), minimum heart rate (HR), and oxygen saturation (SpO2). The study followed 19 participants, including five runners, swimmers, sedentary participants, and four competitive divers for reference values. The minimum value of SpO2, HR, maximum duration of apnea, and FVC were measured. Apnea training occurred four times weekly, consisting of six apneas with 60 s breathing pauses. Apnea duration was gradually increased by 30 s. The measurement started with a 30 s apnea and ended with maximal apnea. There was a change in SpO2 decreased by 6.8%, maximum apnea length increased by 15.8%, HR decreased by 9.1%, and FVC increased by 12.4% for the groups (p < 0.05). There were intra-groups changes, but no significant inter-groups difference was observed. Eight weeks of apnea training improved the maximum duration of apnea, FVC values and reduced the minimum values of SpO2 and HR in all groups. No differences were noted between groups after training. This training may benefit cardiorespiratory parameters in the population.
Analysis of the Impact of U.S. Trade Policy Uncertainty on China’s Grain Trade
Authors: Yang Lulu , Gai Yankai , Zhang An , Wang Lihui
Published: May 2024

U.S. trade protectionism has frequently risen recently, and trade policy fluctuations have become increasingly significant. In this context, examining the impact of U.S. trade policy uncertainty on China’s grain trade is of great significance to China’s response to changes in the international trade situation, guaranteeing national food security and promoting sustainable agricultural development. From the statistical data, the U.S. trade policy uncertainty and China’s grain imports primarily show a reverse trend, and China’s grain exports show a positive trend. To further explore the impact of U.S. trade policy uncertainty on China’s grain trade, this study selects the monthly data from July 2003 to December 2022. It conducts impulse response analysis by constructing a vector autoregressive model with stochastic volatility. It is found that the impact of U.S. trade policy uncertainty on China’s grain trade has prominent time-varying characteristics and point-in-time effects, and the impact on different kinds of grain is heterogeneous. In this regard, China needs to clarify the nature of the trade dispute between China and the United States, reasonably utilize the multilateral coordination mechanism of the WTO, coordinate the international and domestic markets, adjust the short board of grain trade, and safeguard the sustainable development of Chinese agriculture.
Exploring Port–City Relationships: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis
Authors: Zarei Melika , Arasteh Mojtaba , Shahab Sina
Published: May 2024

Planning for port development presents a complex challenge. Along with fostering cooperation and economic synergies, port development also necessitates careful balancing with existing city functions. Previous research on port–city relationships (PCRs) has yielded valuable insights, but a comprehensive systematic and bibliometric review to identify future research directions is lacking. Moreover, existing research in this field has not addressed the need for a comprehensive classification of content, methods, and driving forces. This study addresses these gaps by analyzing 113 academic articles published on PCRs between 2000 and 2023. Using a bibliometric approach, this study leverages the JavaScript programming language, VOSviewer 1.6.20 software, and the Scopus database. This paper aims to identify key research areas and influential studies within the field of PCRs. This analysis reveals emerging research topics and themes within PCRs. Additionally, it depicts which research countries, journals, and keywords are the most prominent with regard to this field, outlining the relationships between them. This study’s findings provide valuable insights into the current state of PCR research, including geographical distribution, publication trends, methodological approaches, and key research variables.
Digital Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Embeddedness, Knowledge Dynamic Capabilities, and User Entrepreneurial Opportunity Development in China: The Moderating Role of Entrepreneurial Learning
Authors: Zhou Jinbo , Cen Weiren
Published: May 2024

Digital entrepreneurial ecosystem embeddedness disrupts existing boundaries and content of innovative entrepreneurial activities, restructuring entrepreneurial landscape. However, how it drives the process and mechanisms of user entrepreneurial opportunity development remains underexplored. Based on entrepreneurial ecosystem theory and knowledge dynamic capability theory, this study examines the mediating role of knowledge dynamic capabilities in the relationship between digital entrepreneurial ecosystem embeddedness and user entrepreneurial opportunity development. Using a sample of 232 user entrepreneurial enterprises in China, hierarchical regression analysis and bootstrap methods are employed to investigate the mechanisms. The results reveal that digital entrepreneurial ecosystem embeddedness significantly promotes knowledge acquisition and sharing capabilities, which in turn facilitate entrepreneurial opportunity development. Moreover, under higher levels of entrepreneurial learning, the promotion of knowledge acquisition and sharing capabilities by digital entrepreneurial ecosystem embeddedness becomes more significant. Furthermore, knowledge dynamic capabilities, consisting of knowledge acquisition and sharing capabilities, significantly promote entrepreneurial opportunity development, partially mediating the relationship between digital entrepreneurial ecosystem embeddedness and entrepreneurial opportunity development. Additionally, knowledge sharing capability serves as the preferable pathway in the dual-driven process of digital entrepreneurial ecosystem embeddedness and entrepreneurial opportunity development. Our findings contribute to understanding the dynamics of user entrepreneurship in China in the digital environment, and offer practical insights for leveraging digital embeddedness to improve the quality and efficiency of opportunity development and promote the sustainability of the digital entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Impact of Text and Image Information on Community Group Buying Performance: Empirical Evidence from Convenience Chain Stores
Authors: Liu Le , Yan Yinyun , Tian Xin , Jiang Zuoliang
Published: May 2024

Although the importance of the content of a webpage in retail business performance is widely recognized, there are few empirical studies on the importance of text and image information on the homepage in retailer performance. How will consumers sift through this information? Does text and image information affect consumers’ purchasing behavior? Using a data set of a Chinese convenience chain store, we attempt to clarify the influence of the brand in the title, the emotional atmosphere on the picture, and the product images of the homepage on the picture on retail business performance by employing a panel fixed-effects negative binomial regression model and a panel fixed-effect regression. Our results show that mentioning the product brand in the event title and presenting clear product images significantly enhance retailer performance in online community group buying. It is noteworthy that emotional descriptions have a greater impact on retailer performance compared to rational descriptions. In practice, this study provides a new perspective and reference for online community group buying platforms to better attract consumers and maintain sustainable development.
An Evaluation of Tropospheric Correction Models for InSAR in Ground Deformation Monitoring: A Case Study in Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Yu Yang , Li Qingfang , Xu Zihan , Lü Qing , Zhan Wei , Yao Xin
Published: May 2024

Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) is a powerful and cost-effective technology to monitor ground deformation. Its accuracy is highly influenced by the atmospheric characteristic of the monitoring area. Separating the true ground deformation from atmospheric signals remains one of the major challenges in the application of InSAR. In this paper, the phase-based linear model, high-spatial resolution weather model (MERRA-2 and GACOS) and combination of the MERRA-2 and phase-based linear model are selected, and their performances in reducing the tropospheric delay are assessed based on the detrending standard deviation (DStd) of all Persistent Scattered (PS) points. A framework for the assessment is proposed and applied to a selected region of Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, China. A total of 26 Sentinel-1A images are used and processed by the method of PS-InSAR. It is found that the phase-based linear model outperforms the other models by at least 6.6% if the whole monitoring time span of the SAR images in the study area is considered. The proper tropospheric correction model in different seasons is not the same. The phase-based linear model is robust against the variations in the atmospheric characteristics of the four seasons.
Uncontrollable Factors Analysis on Sustainable Highway Routine Maintenance Management: A Case Study of Shaanxi Province in China
Authors: Shi Xiaoli , Gong Xiaotian , Li Yuhuan , Wu Xuelian
Published: May 2024

To figure out the primary factors that significantly impact the sustainability of highway routine maintenance management (HRMM), this paper examined 23 highway operating subsidiaries (evaluated decision-making units, DMUs) affiliated with Shaanxi Transportation Holding Group (STHG) in Shaanxi Province as an example. First, data envelopment analysis (DEA) was used to evaluate the performance of HRMM for each DMU. Subsequently, a truncated regression model was utilized to analyze the primary factors that impact the outcomes of HRMM. The conclusions indicated that except for the widely recognized input and output factors, there exist some uncontrollable factors that can affect HRMM efficiency, including the amount of natural dustfall, urbanization rate, tunnel length, and bridge length. These findings offer suggestions for STHG focusing on DMUs facing challenges with high dustfall and urbanization rate and long bridges and tunnels when allocating maintenance resources to improve HRMM efficiency and achieve sustainable highway maintenance management. Moreover, the methodology for analyzing uncontrollable factors can also serve as a valuable reference for other maintenance types or fields, contributing to the broader goal of promoting sustainability in transportation infrastructure development.
Eco-Conscious Consumption in the Climate Change Era: Decoding the Mediating Role of Food Safety and Environmental Concerns between Health Literacy and Take-Out Food Consumption in China
Authors: Lin Liming , Zhang Xiaosan , Khan Muhammad Anwar , Mehmood Muhammad Awais , Khan Muhammad Kamran
Published: May 2024

With take-out food consumption rapidly increasing in China, understanding the factors influencing this dietary shift is crucial for public health, food security, and the environment. This study explores the role of health literacy in take-out food consumption, considering the mediating effects of food safety and environmental concerns and the moderating effect of perceived behavioral control. Cross-sectional survey data from 526 respondents were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and regression to assess the relationships between health literacy, food safety concern, environmental concern, perceived behavioral control, and take-out food consumption frequency. The results revealed that health literacy is negatively associated with consumers’ take-out food consumption frequency; this relationship is completely mediated by food safety and environmental concerns. Furthermore, perceived behavioral control was found to strengthen the impact of food safety and environmental concerns on take-out food consumption frequency. This research advances the interdisciplinary understanding of health literacy’s impact on take-out food consumption by identifying its negative correlation and the mediating roles of food safety concern and environmental concern, with perceived behavioral control intensifying this relationship. Practical implications include the development of public health campaigns and food delivery platforms to strengthen supervision, and digital tools to empower consumers to make informed dietary choices.
Village Settlements’ Perspective on Rural Water Accessibility: A Mountainous Water Security Measurement Approach
Authors: Li Jie , Qiao Ruijing , Liu Lexuan , Wu Kai , Du Pengbo , Ye Kun , Deng Wei
Published: May 2024

In rural planning, ensuring sustainable water management is pivotal, particularly in addressing the challenges posed by the absence of comprehensive rural water security assessments. Despite the abundance of water resources in mountainous regions, their accessibility and utilization remain significant hurdles for local populations, often hindering sustainable development. This study proposed a rural water accessibility (RWA) model, focusing on village settlements (VSs) as fundamental units for water utilization. The model examines two critical aspects of mountainous water security that are essential for sustainability: the supply–demand relation between VSs and their water sources, and the water availability to characterize difficulties in obtaining water sources in complex terrain. Using data from 1156 natural VSs in Dongchuan District, Kunming, water demand was calculated based on population and local average rural water demand per person. Springs and streams were identified as main and standby water sources, respectively. The RWA model evaluates the supply–demand balance and assesses water availability using the least-cost path (LCP) method. The results establish RWA grades, indicating water security conditions for VSs. This approach effectively identifies supply–demand relations and determines water demand gaps, facilitating targeted water management in rural areas, especially during droughts. It enables managers to accurately gauge the grade of water accessibility for each VS, allowing for prompt and tailored emergency water supply interventions. Furthermore, aggregating the RWA of each VS can provide valuable insights for devising sustainable water management strategies in mountainous regions.
Mean-Field Stochastic Linear Quadratic Optimal Control for Jump-Diffusion Systems with Hybrid Disturbances
Authors: Tang Chao , Li Xueqin , Wang Qi
Published: May 2024

A mean-field linear quadratic stochastic (MF-SLQ for short) optimal control problem with hybrid disturbances and cross terms in a finite horizon is concerned. The state equation is a systems driven by the Wiener process and the Poisson random martingale measure disturbed by some stochastic perturbations. The cost functional is also disturbed, which means more general cases could be characterized, especially when extra environment perturbations exist. In this paper, the well-posedness result on the jump diffusion systems is obtained by the fixed point theorem and also the solvability of the MF-SLQ problem. Actually, by virtue of adjoint variables, classic variational calculus, and some dual representation, an optimal condition is derived. Throughout our research, in order to connect the optimal control and the state directly, two Riccati differential equations, a BSDE with random jumps and an ordinary equation (ODE for short) on disturbance terms are obtained by a decoupling technique, which provide an optimal feedback regulator. Meanwhile, the relationship between the two Riccati equations and the so-called mean-field stochastic Hamilton system is established. Consequently, the optimal value is characterized by the initial state, disturbances, and original value of the Riccati equations. Finally, an example is provided to illustrate our theoretic results.
Essentials of ‘the Great Reset’ through Complexity Matching
Authors: Roblek Vasja , Dimovski Vlado
Published: May 2024

This qualitative study employs a thematic network analysis of the literature to explore the implications and evaluations of the ‘Great Reset’. Delving into how complexity theory, especially the principles related to complex systems and coordination, can be applied, this research aims to promote resilience and facilitate comprehensive systemic transformation. This study identifies critical ‘Great Reset’ components that align or conflict with stakeholders’ needs, objectives, and capabilities by examining how diverse stakeholders function within intricate and interconnected systems.
Gamified VR Storytelling for Cultural Tourism Using 3D Reconstructions, Virtual Humans, and 360° Videos
Authors: Kontogiorgakis Emmanouil , Zidianakis Emmanouil , Kontaki Eirini , Partarakis Nikolaos , Manoli Constantina , Ntoa Stavroula , Stephanidis Constantine
Published: May 2024

This work addresses the lack of methodologies for the seamless integration of 360° videos, 3D digitized artifacts, and virtual human agents within a virtual reality environment. The proposed methodology is showcased in the context of a tour guide application and centers around the innovative use of a central hub, metaphorically linking users to various historical locations. Leveraging a treasure hunt metaphor and a storytelling approach, this combination of digital structures is capable of building an exploratory learning experience. Virtual human agents contribute to the scenario by offering personalized narratives and educational content, contributing to an enriched cultural heritage journey. Key contributions of this research include the exploration of the symbolic use of the central hub, the application of a gamified approach through the treasure hunt metaphor, and the seamless integration of various technologies to enhance user engagement. This work contributes to the understanding of context-specific cultural heritage applications and their potential impact on cultural tourism. The output of this research work is the reusable methodology and its demonstration in the implemented showcase application that was assessed by a heuristic evaluation.
Exploring the Adaptation of Bulinus senegalensis and Bulinus umbilicatus to the Dry and Rainy Season in Ephemeral Pond in Niakhar (Senegal), an Area of Seasonal Transmission of Urogenital Schistosomiasis
Authors: Sy Diara , Senghor Bruno , Sokhna Cheikh , Diallo Mamadou Aliou , Wotodjo Amélé Nyedzie , Sow Doudou , Doucoure Souleymane
Published: May 2024

Bulinus snails surviving drought play a key role in the seasonal transmission of urogenital schistosomiasis, although our knowledge of their adaptation to dry season is still limited. We investigated the survival dynamic and infestation by the Schistosoma haematobium of Bulinus snails during the dry and rainy seasons in a single pond in an area of seasonal schistosomiasis transmission in Senegal. During the rainy season, 98 (94.23%) B. senegalensis and six (5.76%) B. umbilicatus were collected, respectively. In the dry season, B. umbilicatus outnumbered B. senegalensis, but all five (100%) B. senegalensis collected were viable and alive after the interruption of aestivation by immersion in water, while only 7 of 24 (29.16%) B. umbilicatus collected emerged from their dormant state. The rate of infestation with S. haeamatobium during the rainy season was 18.2% (19/104), while all the viable snails collected during the dry season were negative. B. senegalensis and B. umbilicatus have different seasonal dynamics with no evidence of maintaining S. haematobium infestation during the drought. Further studies including more survey sites and taking account both snails biology and ecological conditions are needed to better understand snail adaptation to seasonal changes and their ability to maintain S. haeamatobium infestation during drought.
A Perspective of the Epidemiology of Rabies in South Africa, 1998–2019
Authors: Malan Ayla J. , Coetzer Andre , Bosch Cayla , Wright Nicolette , Nel Louis H.
Published: May 2024

Despite the implementation of various control strategies aimed at eliminating canine-mediated rabies, the disease is still endemic in up to 150 countries across the world. Rabies remains endemic to South Africa, with various reservoir species (both wildlife species and domestic dogs) capable of maintaining rabies infection, and the epidemiology of the disease is yet to be adequately defined. As such, this study used surveillance data collected between 1998 and 2019 from the two diagnostic laboratories in the country for a statistical space–time analysis to determine regions where significant disease clusters could occur. In addition, the robustness of surveillance activities across the country was evaluated through the mathematical evaluation and visualization of testing rates based on the average number of samples tested per species group. In our study, various significant disease clusters were detected for domestic animals, wildlife and livestock. The significant disease clusters for domestic animals and livestock were primarily restricted to eastern South Africa, while the significant disease clusters in wildlife species were detected across northern and western South Africa. Furthermore, the testing rates identified districts from various provinces where surveillance activities could be considered inadequate, consequently influencing the geographical range of the observed clusters. These results could be used to direct intervention campaigns towards high-risk areas, while also allocating the required resources to improve surveillance in the surrounding areas where surveillance was deemed inadequate.
Enhancing Dengue Virus Production and Immunogenicity with Celcradle™ Bioreactor: A Comparative Study with Traditional Cell Culture Methods
Authors: Guo Hongxia , Ding Xiaoyan , Hua Dong , Liu Minchi , Yang Maocheng , Gong Yuanxin , Ye Nan , Chen Xiaozhong , He Jiuxiang , Zhang Yu , Xu Xiaofeng , Li Jintao
Published: May 2024

The dengue virus, the primary cause of dengue fever, dengue hemorrhagic fever, and dengue shock syndrome, is the most widespread mosquito-borne virus worldwide. In recent decades, the prevalence of dengue fever has increased markedly, presenting substantial public health challenges. Consequently, the development of an efficacious vaccine against dengue remains a critical goal for mitigating its spread. Our research utilized Celcradle™, an innovative tidal bioreactor optimized for high-density cell cultures, to grow Vero cells for dengue virus production. By maintaining optimal pH levels (7.0 to 7.4) and glucose concentrations (1.5 g/L to 3.5 g/L) during the proliferation of cells and viruses, we achieved a peak Vero cell count of approximately 2.46 × 109, nearly ten times the initial count. The use of Celcradle™ substantially decreased the time required for cell yield and virus production compared to conventional Petri dish methods. Moreover, our evaluation of the immunogenicity of the Celcradle™-produced inactivated DENV4 through immunization of mice revealed that sera from these mice demonstrated cross-reactivity with DENV4 cultured in Petri dishes and showed elevated antibody titers compared to those from mice immunized with virus from Petri dishes. These results indicate that the dengue virus cultivated using the Celcradle™ system exhibited enhanced immunogenicity relative to that produced in traditional methods. In conclusion, our study highlights the potential of the Celcradle™ bioreactor for large-scale production of inactivated dengue virus vaccines, offering significant promise for reducing the global impact of dengue virus infections and accelerating the development of effective vaccination strategies.
Vaccines for the Elderly and Vaccination Programs in Europe and the United States
Authors: Anastassopoulou Cleo , Ferous Stefanos , Medić Snežana , Siafakas Nikolaos , Boufidou Fotini , Gioula Georgia , Tsakris Athanasios
Published: May 2024

The share of the elderly population is growing worldwide as life expectancy increases. Immunosenescence and comorbidities increase infectious diseases’ morbidity and mortality in older adults. Here, we aimed to summarize the latest findings on vaccines for the elderly against herpes zoster, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease and to examine vaccine recommendation differences for this age group in Europe and the United States. PubMed was searched using the keywords “elders” and “vaccine” alongside the disease/pathogen in question and paraphrased or synonymous terms. Vaccine recommendations were also sought in the European and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention databases. Improved vaccines, tailored for the elderly, mainly by using novel adjuvants or by increasing antigen concentration, are now available. Significant differences exist between immunization policies, especially between European countries, in terms of the recipient’s age, number of doses, vaccination schedule, and implementation (mandatory or recommended). Understanding the factors that influence the immune response to vaccination in the elderly may help to design vaccines that offer long-term protection for this vulnerable age group. A consensus-based strategy in Europe could help to fill the gaps in immunization policy in the elderly, particularly regarding vaccination against RSV and pneumococcus.
Prevalence and Evolutionary Characteristics of Bovine Coronavirus in China
Authors: Li Siyuan , Huang Jin , Cai Xuhang , Mao Li , Xie Lingling , Wang Fu , Zhou Hua , Yuan Xuesong , Sun Xinru , Fu Xincheng , Fan Baochao , Xu Xingang , Li Jizong , Li Bin
Published: May 2024

Bovine coronavirus (BCoV), bovine rotavirus, bovine viral diarrhea virus, and bovine astrovirus are the most common intestinal pathogenic viruses causing diarrhea in cattle. We collected 1646 bovine fecal samples from January 2020 to August 2023. BCoV was the major pathogen detected, with a positive rate of 34.02% (560/1646). Of the 670 diarrheal samples and 976 asymptomatic samples, 209 and 351 were BCoV-positive, respectively. Studying the relevance of diarrhea associated with BCoV has shown that the onset of diarrheal symptoms post-infection is strongly correlated with the cattle’s age and may also be related to the breed. We amplified and sequenced the hemagglutinin esterase (HE), spike protein, and whole genomes of the partially positive samples and obtained six complete HE sequences, seven complete spike sequences, and six whole genomes. Molecular characterization revealed that six strains were branched Chinese strains, Japanese strains, and partial American strains from the GⅡb subgroup. Strains HBSJZ2202 and JSYZ2209 had four amino acid insertions on HE. We also analyzed ORF1a and found disparities across various regions within GIIb, which were positioned on separate branches within the phylogenetic tree. This work provides data for further investigating the epidemiology of BCoV and for understanding and analyzing BCoV distribution and dynamics.
A Scoping Review of the Evidence on Prevalence of Feline Upper Respiratory Tract Infections and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Kennedy Uttara , Paterson Mandy Bryce Allan , Magalhaes Ricardo Soares , Callaghan Thomas , Clark Nicholas
Published: May 2024

Feline upper respiratory tract infections (URI) are of concern, especially in animal shelters. This scoping review identifies epidemiological literature on URI as caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV), feline calicivirus (FCV), Chlamydia felis, Mycoplasma felis and Bordetella bronchiseptica. Four databases were searched, studies were screened, and data were extracted on a standardised template. We described patterns in spatial locations of the studies, the range of pathogens and diagnostic tests, cohort characteristics and the findings of risk factor analyses. A total of 90 articles were selected for final data extraction. There was diversity in sampling methods, precluding quantitative meta-analysis of prevalence reports. FHV was most frequently studied (n = 57/90). The most popular sampling site was conjunctival swabbing (n = 43). Most studies (n = 57) used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to confirm diagnosis. Approximately one-third (n = 32/90) of the studies included sheltered felines. This review explores the current state of knowledge on the epidemiology and risk factors of feline URI. Assessing the impact of risk factors has the potential to alleviate the severity of disease, especially in shelters; however, the results were not easily pooled as the studies used inconsistent approaches. We present recommendations for ongoing epidemiological research on feline URI to provide a more structured framework and define research questions for future systematic reviews.
A Water Shortage Risk Assessment Model Based on Kernel Density Estimation and Copulas
Authors: Qian Tanghui , Shi Zhengtao , Gu Shixiang , Xi Wenfei , Chen Jing , Chen Jinming , Bai Shihan , Wu Lei
Published: May 2024

Accurate assessment and prediction of water shortage risk are essential prerequisites for the rational allocation and risk management of water resources. However, previous water shortage risk assessment models based on copulas have strict requirements for data distribution, making them unsuitable for extreme conditions such as insufficient data volume and indeterminate distribution shapes. These limitations restrict the applicability of the models and result in lower evaluation accuracy. To address these issues, this paper proposes a water shortage risk assessment model based on kernel density estimation (KDE) and copula functions. This approach not only enhances the robustness and stability of the model but also improves its prediction accuracy. The methodology involves initially utilizing kernel density estimation to quantify the random uncertainties in water supply and demand based on historical statistical data, thereby calculating their respective marginal probability distributions. Subsequently, copula functions are employed to quantify the coupled interdependence between water supply and demand based on these marginal probability distributions, thereby computing the joint probability distribution. Ultimately, the water shortage risk is evaluated based on potential loss rates and occurrence probabilities. This proposed model is applied to assess the water shortage risk of the Yuxi water receiving area in the Central Yunnan Water Diversion Project, and compared with existing models through experimental contrasts. The experimental results demonstrate that the model exhibits evident advantages in terms of robustness, stability, and evaluation accuracy, with a rejection rate of 0 for the null hypothesis of edge probability fitting and a smaller deviation in joint probability fitting compared to the most outstanding model in the field. These findings indicate that the model presented in this paper is capable of adapting to non-ideal scenarios and extreme climatic conditions for water shortage risk assessment, providing reliable prediction outcomes even under extreme circumstances. Therefore, it can serve as a valuable reference and source of inspiration for related engineering applications and technical research.
Combination of Precipitation-Adsorption-Bipolar Membrane Electrodialysis for Mine Water Treatment
Authors: Feng Xiujuan , Cen Du , Wu Yonghui
Published: May 2024

The process of mining produces a large amount of heavy metals and high-sulfate mine water, which is the main factor leading to environmental degradation in the mining area, and the removal of heavy metals and the recovery of sulfate from mine water is a difficult problem faced by mines today. Currently, sulfate is treated as a hazardous substance and is not recycled. In this paper, the precipitation–adsorption bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED) multi-technology-coupled recovery of sulfate method was used to treat mine water. The results showed that the coupling technology could remove heavy metals and sulfate in water better, while the sulfate desalination rate was about 96.8%, current efficiency was 54.2%, energy consumption was 0.823 kWh/kg, and the acid production concentration was 0.168 at an electrolyte concentration of 0.1 mol/L, an operating voltage of 12 V, an initial salt concentration of 30 g/L, and a flow rate of 3.5 mL/min. Mechanistic results showed that the precipitation–adsorption method could realize the removal of heavy metals from mine water. The BMED process realized the removal of sulfate and also the recovery of acid. The multi-technology coupling of precipitation–adsorption and bipolar membrane electrodialysis explored in this paper provides a direction for the in-depth treatment of mine water.
Advancements in Battery Management Systems for Electric Vehicles: A MATLAB-Based Simulation of 4S3P Lithium-Ion Battery Packs
Authors: Tapaskar Rakesh P. , Revankar Prashant P. , Ganachari Sharanabasava V.
Published: May 2024

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain momentum in the shift towards sustainable transportation, the efficiency and reliability of energy storage systems become paramount. Lithium-ion batteries stand at the forefront of this transition, necessitating sophisticated battery management systems (BMS) to enhance their performance and lifespan. This research presents an innovative simulation of a 4S3P lithium-ion battery pack using MATLAB R2023b, designed to refine BMS capabilities by employing advanced mathematical modelling and computational intelligence. The simulation meticulously analyses critical operational metrics such as state of charge (SOC), state of health (SOH), temperature variations, and electrical behaviour under diverse load scenarios, offering deep insights into the intricate dynamics of lithium-ion batteries in EV applications. The results corroborate the simulation model’s accuracy in reflecting actual battery pack performance and underscore significant improvements in BMS strategies, especially concerning predictive maintenance and adaptive charging techniques. By seamlessly integrating computational intelligence into BMS, this study lays the groundwork for more durable, efficient, and intelligent energy storage systems in electric vehicles, marking a significant stride in e-mobility technology.
Reuse of the Surrounding Powder Used as a Na-Source in the Fabrication of Sodium-Beta-Alumina Solid Electrolyte by Vapor-Phase Conversion Method
Authors: Go Do-Young , Kim Ha Young , Jung Keeyoung , Lim Sungki
Published: May 2024

While Na/NiCl2 secondary batteries offer high safety and excellent performance, their high price inhibits their commercialization. Two approaches are proposed to solve this problem: (1) automatic production by making cells of a flat plate structure and (2) lowering the price of sodium-beta-alumina solid electrolyte (BASE), a key component. In general, a thin and wide disk-type BASE for a planar Na/NiCl2 battery is prepared from zirconia-toughened alumina (ZTA) by a vapor-phase conversion (VPC) process. In the process, Na-β″-Al2O3 powder, which is usually used as surrounding powder to supply sodium, is used once, then discarded. In this study, two methods were attempted to reduce the BASE cost fabricated by the VPC process. The first is the reuse of the surrounding powder in the VPC. The number of reuses has been up to three times. The second is that the surrounding powder is used as-is by mixing raw material powders, that is α-Al2O3, Na2-CO3, and Li2CO3, instead of Na-β″-Al2O3 powder. This allows omission of the calcination process required for Na-β″-Al2O3 synthesis. Furthermore, the properties of the BASE prepared by VPC with the reused surrounding powder were analyzed, and their changes were investigated.
Evaluation of Parameters of Immune Status As Factors for Prediction of Therapy Efficacy in the Context of Mechanisms of Evolution of Anti-Tumor Immune Response
Authors:   N.N. Petrov National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Novik A.V. , Nehaeva T.L. , Latipova D.H. , Emelyanova N.V. , Efremova N.A. , Zozula A.Yu. ,   St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Teletaeva G.M. , Semenova A.I. , Protsenko S.A. , Baldueva I.A.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the prognostic and predictive value of lymphocyte subpopulations estimation in the peripheral blood during systemic therapy in patients with solid tumors. Material and methods. We performed a pooled analysis of a series of phase I–II or IV prospective trials conducted in the N.N. Petrov National Medical Research Center of Oncology since 1998 to 2017. Immune system condition (immune status) was assessed 2932 times in 532 patients. 64.5% of patients had melanoma, 16.5% – kidney cancer, 11.4% – soft tissue sarcoma, 7.6% – primary multiple tumors with inclusion of above mentioned diseases. Stages I–II was diagnosed in 12.1% of cases, stage III in 27.5%, stage IV in 60.5%. We present results of the complex assessment of immune factors as predictors of objective response, time to progression or overall survival. Results. We confirmed predictive role of the anergy for efficacy of anticancer vaccines in melanoma. We found several factors that have change their prognostic and predictive value to the opposite in relation to primary tumor, therapy setting (adjuvant or therapeutic), type of therapy. We have shown the efficacy of chemotherapy and targeted therapy in patients with high CD3+CD4+CD24highCD127low lymphocytes level. We have shown favorable prognostic value of elevated CD3+CD4+CD8+ cells level. We demonstrated relation between immune response evaluation and mechanism of action in different types of vaccines. Features of immunological profiles of predictive factors for different diseases, different types of therapy are presented. Conclusion. Evaluation of the main parts of the immune system and allocation of different syndromes is essential for the prediction do the therapy efficacy based on immune system parameters.
Efficacy of the Triple Combination in the Treatment of Advanced Melanoma with BRAF V600 Mutation. Analysis of the Clinical Case of a Patient with Metastatic Melanoma
Authors:   Ufa Clinical Oncology Center, Sultanbaev A.V. , Menshikov K.V. , Musin Sh.I.
Published: May 2024

Skin melanoma is one of the most aggressive malignant forms of neoplasms, difficult to treat, has a high potential for growth and dissemination, as well as regional and widespread metastasis. Over the past few years, the issues of efficacy and safety of a number of drugs used to treat patients both in mono mode and in combination therapy regimens have been actively discussed. One notable study on the efficacy of a new drug combination is IMspire150. The use of a triple combination (atezolizumab, vemurafenib, cobimetinib) in the first line of therapy for advanced melanoma with a positive BRAF V600 mutation is presented in this clinical case.
Finding Predictors of Immunotherapy Toxicity Using Discriminant Analysis
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Zhukova N.V. ,   St. Petersburg City Clinical Oncology Center, Orlova R.V. , Kaledina E.A. , Naimushina P.A. , Malkova A.M. , Belyak N.P.
Published: May 2024

Immune-mediated adverse events in therapy with checkpoint inhibitors can be severe and even fatal. The identification of indicators that will allow predicting the toxicity of immunotherapy is an urgent task. In this work, an attempt was made to determine the predictors of immunotherapy toxicity using the discriminant analysis method. The meaning of discriminant analysis is to convert a multidimensional array into a one-dimensional indicator based on training samples to predict whether observations belong to groups. After the calculations were made by the program, 2 out of 7 analyzed indicators were selected: CPS and the number of lymphocytes before the start of therapy. Both independent indicators included in the prognostic model are directly related to the value of the discriminant function: an increase in both CPS values and the number of lymphocytes leads to an increase in the likelihood of autoimmune manifestations. The sensitivity of the model was 100%, the specificity was 75%. Based on the constructed model, it is possible to create a calculator that allows predicting the risk of developing immune-mediated complications in a particular patient, according to his laboratory data.
A Clinical Case of the Use of Pembrolizumab in a Patient with Metastatic Lesion of Lymph Nodes, Brain Without Identified Primary Focus
Authors:   City Oncological Hospital No. 62, Moscow, Stroyakovsky D.L. , Yurchenkov A.N. , Danilova A.S. , Volkonsky M.V.
Published: May 2024

Treatment of patients with metastases of a malignant tumor without an identified primary focus (HPV) occurs on an individual basis, taking into account clinical and morphological data. The correct prescription of drug therapy depends on the final histological, immunohistochemical and molecular genetic studies. The article presents a clinical case of the use of immunotherapy in a patient without HPV with high PD-L1 expression.
The Effectiveness of Microneedle Radiofrequency Lifting and Injectable Fillers Based on Hyaluronic Acid in the Complex Therapy of Involutive Changes in the Skin of the Face
Authors:   Central State Medical Academy of Department of Presidential Affairs, Moscow, Gres S.N. , Stenko A.G. , Gryazeva N.V.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of the study is to scientifically substantiate and develop an algorithm for the complex use of microneedle radiofrequency lifting and injectable fillers based on hyaluronic acid in patients with involutive changes in facial skin. Material and methods. 83 patients with involutive changes in facial skin were observed on an outpatient basis. Depending on the method of correction of involutive changes, the patients were divided into three groups. The control method was the Scientific Assessment Scale of Skin Quality (SASSQ). Results. It was revealed that the combined use of microneedle radiofrequency lifting and injectable fillers based on hyaluronic acid significantly reduces the severity of clinical manifestations in patients with involutive changes in the facial skin: 11 [9; 12], 10 [9; 11], 8 [8; 9] in the first, second, third groups, respectively, according to SASSQ. Conclusion. Thus, the combined use of microneedling radiofrequency lifting and injectable fillers based on hyaluronic acid can be recommended for patients with involutive skin changes in practical healthcare.
Current State of Incidence and Diagnosis of Melanoma and Other Malignant Neoplasms of the Skin in the Russian Federation and the Ural Federal District
Authors:   Ural Research Institute of Dermatovenereology and Immunopathology, Malishevskaya N.P. , Sokolova A.V. , Petkau V.V. , Demidov L.V. ,   Sverdlovsk Regional Oncology Dispensary,   N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology,   Regional skin and venereological dispensary No. 3, Chelyabinsk, Iglikov V.A.
Published: May 2024

The article presents the current epidemiological situation of melanoma and other skin malignancies in the Russian Federation. A comparative analytical study of the state of early diagnosis, organization of medical care for the identification of patients with melanoma and other malignant skin neoplasms in the Russian Federation and six subjects of the Ural Federal District was conducted. To improve the indicator of active detection of patients with melanoma of the skin, especially in the early stages, it is necessary to create a system of interaction between doctors of primary contact with the patient and the oncological service, the formation of cancer awareness among doctors of all specialties, as well as among the population.
Adjuvant Targeted Therapy Versus Anti-PD-1 Immunotherapy in BRAF-Mutated Stage III Melanoma: a Real-World Data
Authors:   N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Akhmetianova A.Ye. , Orlova K.V. , Nazarova V.V. , Baryshnikov K.A. , Samoylenko I.V. , Ivanilov K.Yu. , Demidov L.V.
Published: May 2024

Targeted therapy and anti-PD1 immunotherapy are standard of adjuvant stage III (or equivalent stage III) melanoma treatment. Both treatments significantly improve relapse-free survival compared with placebo and ipilimumab. The impact of adjuvant immunotherapy on overall survival remains unclear. Targeted therapy improved 3-year overall survival, but data didn’t reach statistical significance. There is still a lack of direct comparison in randomized trials between targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Data limited to a few retrospective studies. We conducted a single-center observational retrospective study comparing two adjuvant treatment options in BRAF-mutated high-risk melanoma patients who were treated or consulted at the N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology.