bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Old are Trees and How Fast Do They Grow?
Authors: Bernal-Escobar Manuel , Feeley Kenneth J.
Published: September 2024

Have you ever wondered how old a big tree is, or counted the rings in a tree stump to discover a tree’s age? Why do the rings tell us about a tree’s age anyway? Trees grow taller and fatter using special cells called meristems, located at the tip of every branch and around their stems under the bark. This special way of growing means that many trees have growth rings that we can count and measure to find out how old they are and how fast they are growing. Scientists are concerned that climate change is changing how fast trees grow and even how long they can live. They have found that many trees are growing slower than they did a few decades ago. When trees grow slower, they absorb less carbon dioxide from the air. This can cause climate change to speed up, making it even worse for trees.
The impact of diversity management on innovative work behavior: the mediating role of employee engagement in an emerging economy
Authors: Elamin Abdallah M. , Aldabbas Hazem , Ahmed Ahmed Zain Elabdin
Published: September 2024

This study explored how diversity management fuels innovative employee behavior in the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) emerging economy. Surveying 120 individuals from various service organizations, the research found a strong connection between diversity initiatives, and employee engagement, ultimately leading to more innovative practices. Diversity management directly impacts employee engagement, which in turn significantly influence innovative work behaviors. Interestingly, employee engagement fully mediates the relationship between diversity and innovation. These findings highlight the crucial role of diversity management in fostering a culture of innovation. Organizations can leverage this by investing in training by equipping employees with skills to effectively engage across diverse teams as well as promoting inclusivity through cultivating a work environment that values and respects differences, fostering open communication and collaboration. By implementing these recommendations, organizations can harness the power of diverse perspectives to drive innovation and gain a competitive edge.
China–U.S. Trade Friction and China’s Agricultural Machinery Imports: Mechanism and Empirical Evidence
Authors: Li Xinyi , Zhang Meng
Published: September 2024

Based on the monthly panel data of China’s imports of agricultural machinery products from 2016–2022, this paper uses a multi-period double-difference model to assess the impact of China’s imposition of counter-tariffs on China’s imports of agricultural machinery in the context of U.S.–China trade friction. It is found that China’s implementation of counter-tariffs significantly reduces China’s imports of agricultural machinery products from the U.S. and significantly increases imports from 16 other countries, but the trade diversion effect is lower than the trade suppression effect. Mechanism analysis finds that China–U.S. trade friction affects the technological innovation capacity of agricultural machinery enterprises and the degree of uncertainty in the Chinese economy, which in turn affects China’s agricultural machinery imports. Heterogeneity analysis finds that China–U.S. trade friction has a more significant inhibitory effect on seeding and planting and fertilizing machinery, drainage, irrigation, and water lifting machinery, and other machinery imported from the U.S., and a more significant diversionary effect on agricultural primary processing machinery and harvesting machinery imported from 16 other countries. The imposition of countervailing tariffs mainly affected imports of complete machinery products rather than machinery spare parts.
Relationship between Storage Quality and Functionality of Common Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) and Tartary Buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn) at Different Temperatures
Authors: Chen Yen-Liang , Yang Kai-Min , Shiao Xin-Yu , Huang Jan-Jeng , Ma Yu-An , Chiang Po-Yuan
Published: September 2024

Buckwheat and other grains have become influential in sustainable agriculture and food security owing to climate change. However, subpar storage conditions can result in the deterioration of the nutritional value and active components of buckwheat, making storage quality a significant research subject. This study examined common buckwheat (CB) and Tartary buckwheat (TB) stored at 4 °C, 30 °C, and 55 °C from 0 to 6 months to assess storage quality and its relationship to the preservation of active components. The results of agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) and principal component analysis (PCA) showed that as storage temperature and time increased, both CB and TB exhibited the following differences: significant alterations in color due to an increase in browning index (B.I.), higher acidity from accelerated acid production at high temperatures, and a decrease in total phenolics, flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity due to thermal degradation of functional components. In the storage quality assessment, no alteration in microstructure or degradation in components was detected after exposure to all times and temperatures, and the content of the primary bioactive compound, rutin, was CB (16.57–27.81 mg/100 g d.w.) and TB (707.70–787.58 mg/100 g d.w.), demonstrating buckwheat’s resistance to microbial contamination. Storage temperature significantly impacts buckwheat’s quality and bioactive components, making it an important element in establishing a sustainable food supply chain.
Buckling Capacity of Steel Spherical Shells According to B&M Procedure Compared to Selected Experimental Studies
Authors: Błażejewski Paweł
Published: September 2024

This article compares the results of estimating the buckling capacity of steel spherical shells using simple engineering formulas with the results of selected experimental studies that have been conducted over the past 70 years. It is worth noting that these studies were conducted by research centers from all over the world, and the tested coatings differed in material, manufacturing method, radius R, and thickness t. The test methods, procedures, and measurement tools were also different. The convergence of the results obtained between the proposed simple engineering approach, which is based on the provisions of EN-1993-1-6 and the recommendations in EDR5th, and the experimental studies is satisfactory, and in many cases the results obtained are almost identical. Therefore, it is possible to practically apply the developed algorithms for estimating the buckling capacity of steel spherical shells without worrying too much about the capacity reserve.
Mathematical Modeling of Cancer Progression
Authors: Azizi Tahmineh
Published: September 2024

Cancer, a complex disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and metastasis, remains a formidable challenge to global health. Mathematical modeling has emerged as a critical tool to elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms driving tumor initiation, progression, and treatment responses. By integrating principles from biology, physics, and mathematics, mathematical oncology provides a quantitative framework for understanding tumor growth dynamics, microenvironmental interactions, and the evolution of cancer cells. This study explores the key applications of mathematical modeling in oncology, encompassing tumor growth kinetics, intra-tumor heterogeneity, personalized medicine, clinical trial optimization, and cancer immunology. Through the development and application of computational models, researchers aim to gain deeper insights into cancer biology, identify novel therapeutic targets, and optimize treatment strategies. Ultimately, mathematical oncology holds the promise of transforming cancer care by enabling more precise, personalized, and effective therapies.
Combining Semantic Matching, Word Embeddings, Transformers, and LLMs for Enhanced Document Ranking: Application in Systematic Reviews
Authors: Mitrov Goran , Stanoev Boris , Gievska Sonja , Mirceva Georgina , Zdravevski Eftim
Published: September 2024

The rapid increase in scientific publications has made it challenging to keep up with the latest advancements. Conducting systematic reviews using traditional methods is both time-consuming and difficult. To address this, new review formats like rapid and scoping reviews have been introduced, reflecting an urgent need for efficient information retrieval. This challenge extends beyond academia to many organizations where numerous documents must be reviewed in relation to specific user queries. This paper focuses on improving document ranking to enhance the retrieval of relevant articles, thereby reducing the time and effort required by researchers. By applying a range of natural language processing (NLP) techniques, including rule-based matching, statistical text analysis, word embeddings, and transformer- and LLM-based approaches like Mistral LLM, we assess the article’s similarities to user-specific inputs and prioritize them according to relevance. We propose a novel methodology, Weighted Semantic Matching (WSM) + MiniLM, combining the strengths of the different methodologies. For validation, we employ global metrics such as precision at K, recall at K, average rank, median rank, and pairwise comparison metrics, including higher rank count, average rank difference, and median rank difference. Our proposed algorithm achieves optimal performance, with an average recall at 1000 of 95% and an average median rank of 185 for selected articles across the five datasets evaluated. These findings give promising results in pinpointing the relevant articles and reducing the manual work.
An Enhanced IDBO-CNN-BiLSTM Model for Sentiment Analysis of Natural Disaster Tweets
Authors: Mu Guangyu , Li Jiaxue , Li Xiurong , Chen Chuanzhi , Ju Xiaoqing , Dai Jiaxiu
Published: September 2024

The Internet’s development has prompted social media to become an essential channel for disseminating disaster-related information. Increasing the accuracy of emotional polarity recognition in tweets is conducive to the government or rescue organizations understanding the public’s demands and responding appropriately. Existing sentiment analysis models have some limitations of applicability. Therefore, this research proposes an IDBO-CNN-BiLSTM model combining the swarm intelligence optimization algorithm and deep learning methods. First, the Dung Beetle Optimization (DBO) algorithm is improved by adopting the Latin hypercube sampling, integrating the Osprey Optimization Algorithm (OOA), and introducing an adaptive Gaussian–Cauchy mixture mutation disturbance. The improved DBO (IDBO) algorithm is then utilized to optimize the Convolutional Neural Network—Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-BiLSTM) model’s hyperparameters. Finally, the IDBO-CNN-BiLSTM model is constructed to classify the emotional tendencies of tweets associated with the Hurricane Harvey event. The empirical analysis indicates that the proposed model achieves an accuracy of 0.8033, outperforming other single and hybrid models. In contrast with the GWO, WOA, and DBO algorithms, the accuracy is enhanced by 2.89%, 2.82%, and 2.72%, respectively. This study proves that the IDBO-CNN-BiLSTM model can be applied to assist emergency decision-making in natural disasters.
Investigating Physical, Social, Emotional, and Health Frailties of Cancer Survivors after Cancer Treatment: The Urgent Call for Tailored Multidisciplinary Survivorship Plans in Italy
Authors: Moramarco Stefania , De Angelis Luigi , Bernardini Laura , Marconi Lorenza , Piunno Gaia , Siciliano Simonetta , Malizia Andrea , Buonomo Ersilia , Pesaresi Alessia , Andreoli Angela , Capotondi Barbara , Roselli Mario , Palombi Leonardo , Torino Francesco
Published: September 2024

Background: Understanding the specific needs of cancer survivors is essential for healthcare policy. In Italy, dedicated studies are lacking, so we aimed to investigate the physical, mental, social, and health difficulties encountered by these patients. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study on breast or colorectal cancer survivors (people 5+ years free from it and its treatments) using an ad hoc survey including validated questionnaires (Grauer–Palombi, SF-36, PREDIMED). Participants were recruited within the Oncology Unit of the “Policlinico Tor Vergata”, Italy. Results: A total of 62 patients (80.6% females; years range: 37–87) agreed to be interviewed. A profile of cancer survivors was drafted: an overaged person with multiple co-morbidities, not well-nourished, adhering to the Mediterranean diet, reporting critical conditions as for physical and functional status. The mean number of co-morbidities was 3.6 ± 2.4 SD, with a statistically significant difference between age groups (under and over 65). Compared to the general population, the sample showed more frailties, especially when >65. The risk of having multimorbidity (four or more co-morbidities) significantly increased in those over 65 (OR: 4.72; CI: 1.43–15.59). Conclusion: There is an urgent need for survivorship care planning for the patient-centered continuum of care. Assessing and monitoring their specific needs will help propose appropriate and tailored responses.
Haemodynamic Forces: Emerging Markers of Ventricular Remodelling in Multiple Myeloma Cardiovascular Baseline Risk Assessment
Authors: Colomba Anna , Astarita Anna , Mingrone Giulia , Airale Lorenzo , Catarinella Cinzia , Vallelonga Fabrizio , Leone Dario , Cesareo Marco , Paladino Arianna , Bringhen Sara , Gay Francesca , Pedrizzetti Gianni , Veglio Franco , Milan Alberto
Published: September 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) affects a population with a high prevalence of cardiovascular (CV) disease. These patients benefit from an accurate CV risk evaluation in order to choose the safest drug regimen. Haemodynamic forces (HDFs) analysis allows for the earlier detection of myocardial damage compared with standard markers; the role played by MM in HDFs alteration, with or without the influence of hypertension, is yet to be studied. Therefore, we aimed to identify differences in HDFs analysis in patients with MM, hypertension or both versus normotensive non-oncologic subjects. A total of 173 patients (MM hypertensive patients, MMHT; MM normotensive patients, MMNT; non-oncologic hypertensive patients, CoHT; and non-oncologic normotensive patients, CoNT) underwent transthoracic echocardiography for HDFs analysis and pulse wave velocity (PWV) assessment. Hypertensive patients (MMHT, CoHT) showed decreased ejection fraction (EF), global longitudinal strain (GLS) and HDFs values compared with CoNT, whereas ventricular mass (LVMi) and PWV increased. MMNT displayed a significant reduction in systolic HDFs (p < 0.006) and systolic ejection HDFs (p < 0.008) compared with CoNT, without significant change in EF, GLS, LVMi or PWV. In conclusion, MM leads to ventricular remodelling regardless of hypertension; HDFs application for MM patients could help detect early myocardial damage, especially in patients receiving cardiotoxic drugs.
Factors Influencing Outcomes and Survival in Anal Cancer
Authors: Temperley Hugo C. , Mac Curtain Benjamin M. , O’Sullivan Niall J. , Mulhall Cormac , Temperley Tatiana S. , Mehigan Brian J. , Larkin John O. , McCormick Paul H. , Kerr Colm , Gallagher David , Bergin Colm , Gillham Charles , Kelly Michael E.
Published: September 2024

Background: We aim to ascertain prognostic factors in the current management of anal cancer within this study. Methods: We reviewed the management and outcomes of anal cancer cases over a seven-year period, inclusive (2016–2023). The primary objectives were to assess the demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, and outcomes of all anal cancer patients within our institution. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was used to estimate survival differences between cohorts, with statistical significance determined using log-rank testing. Cox proportional hazards regression was utilised to identify prognostic factors. Cox regression hazard ratios were reported along with confidence intervals and p-values. Results: The median follow-up time for the study was 29.8 months. Seventy-five patients with anal cancer were included in this study, with 88% (66/75) being squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and the majority having regional disease (82.7% (62/75)). The median age at diagnosis was 63.4 years (36–94). There was a female preponderance (57.3% (43/75)). In total, 84% (63/75) underwent definitive chemoradiation (dCRT), with 7/63 (11.1%) requiring a salvage abdomino-perineal resection (APR) for residual or recurrent disease. Adverse prognostic indicators include those with T4 disease hazard ratio = 3.81, (95% CI 1.13–12.83, * p = 0.04), poorly differentiated tumour disease HR = 3.37, (95% CI 1.13–10.02, * p = 0.04), having N2 nodal status HR = 5.03, (95% CI 1.11–22.8, * p = 0.04), and having metastatic disease at diagnosis HR = 5.8, (95% CI 1.28–26.42, * p = 0.02). Conclusion: Presenting characteristics including stage, nodal, and differentiation status remain key prognostic indicators in those diagnosed with anal malignancy.
Can Cytoreductive Nephrectomy Improve Outcomes of Nivolumab Treatment in Patients with Metastatic Clear-Cell Renal Carcinoma?
Authors: Ocak Birol , Sahin Ahmet Bilgehan , Ertürk Ismail , Korkmaz Mustafa , Erdem Dilek , Cakıroglu Umut , Karaca Mustafa , Dirican Ahmet , Olmez Omer Fatih , Goktas Aydın Sabin , Gökyer Ali , Kücükarda Ahmet , Gülmez Ahmet , Yumuk Perran Fulden , Demircan Nazim Can , Oyman Abdilkerim , Sakalar Teoman , Karatas Fatih , Demir Hacer , Yasin Ayse Irem , Deligonul Adem , Dakiki Bahar , Goktug Mehmet Refik , Avcı Okan , Tacar Seher Yildiz , Turhal Nazım Serdar , Deniz Gülhan Ipek , Kacan Turgut , Cubukcu Erdem , Evrensel Türkkan
Published: September 2024

Background: This study aimed to investigate the effect of cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) on the survival outcomes of nivolumab used as a subsequent therapy after the failure of at least one anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agent in patients with metastatic clear-cell renal-cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Methods: We included 106 de novo metastatic ccRCC patients who received nivolumab after progression on at least one anti-VEGF agent. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to investigate the factors affecting survival in patients receiving nivolumab. Results: Of the 106 de novo metastatic ccRCC patients, 83 (78.3%) underwent CN. There were no statistical differences between the two groups in terms of age, gender, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score, tumor size, International Metastatic RCC Database Consortium (IMDC) risk group, number of previous treatment lines, first-line anti-VEGF therapy, or metastasis sites (p = 0.137, p = 0.608, p = 0.100, p = 0.376, p = 0.185, p = 0.776, p = 0.350, and p = 0.608, respectively). The patients who received nivolumab with CN had a longer time to treatment discontinuation (TTD) [14.5 months, 95% confidence interval (CI): 8.6–20.3] than did those without CN 6.7 months (95% CI: 3.9–9.5) (p = 0.001). The median overall survival (OS) was 22.7 months (95% CI: 16.1–29.4). The patients with CN had a median OS of 22.9 months (95% CI: 16.3–29.4), while those without CN had a median OS of 8.1 months (95% CI: 5.6–10.5) (p = 0.104). In the multivariate analysis, CN [hazard ratio (HR): 0.521; 95% CI: 0.297–0.916; p = 0.024] and the IMDC risk score (p = 0.011) were statistically significant factors affecting TTD; however, the IMDC risk score (p = 0.006) was the only significant factor for overall survival. Conclusions: Our study showed that the TTD of nivolumab was longer in metastatic ccRCC patients who underwent cytoreductive nephrectomy.
Taxonomic and Genetic Diversity in Palaemon Species (Decapoda: Caridea: Palaemonidae) of the Northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Fanning Daniel D. , Wicksten Mary K. , Schulze Anja
Published: September 2024

Grass shrimp of the genus Palaemon (Crustacea, Decapoda, Palaemonidae) occur worldwide in freshwater and saline wetlands. Palaemon species are frequently misidentified, and the genus itself has been reorganized several times. To clarify the intrageneric phylogenetic relationships and analyze the regional genetic diversity, we sequenced fragments of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and the nuclear Histone H3 (H3) genes from specimens collected along the northern Gulf of Mexico, where several morphologically similar Palaemon species reside. The generated sequences were combined with publicly available Palaemon sequences for phylogenetic and haplotype analyses. Our analyses indicate that the rostral formula is an unreliable character for species identification, that the Mississippi River does not act as a genetic barrier between the eastern and western populations, and that freshwater species are likely not derived from the saltwater species in the region.
Temporal Changes in Bank Vole Populations Indicate Species Decline
Authors: Balčiauskas Linas , Jasiulionis Marius , Stirkė Vitalijus , Balčiauskienė Laima
Published: September 2024

Because of their wide distribution, short life cycle, rapid reproduction, and sensitivity to the environment, rodents can indicate changes in habitat quality and climate variables. Long-term studies are needed to verify these changes and assumptions about their causes. We analyzed small mammal trapping data in Lithuania, covering the period 1975–2023, with 1821 trapping sites and 57,426 small mammal individuals, with a focus on the bank vole (Clethrionomys glareolus). The aim of this study was to assess temporal changes in the relative abundance and proportion of this species in small mammal communities in relation to their habitats. With 21,736 captured individuals, C. glareolus was a dominant species in the country; its proportion in general was 37.9%, with 60.0% in forests. Open habitats, meadows and agricultural land were characterized by the lowest species proportions. Our main findings were the confirmation of decreasing abundances and proportions of C. glareolus since the 1990s, the absence of cyclical fluctuations in the relative abundances of the species in general and in forest habitats, and the introduction of a south–north cline in species proportions. The status of this temperate and boreal forest species is subject to change, with implications for the diversity of the mid-latitude small mammal community.
Internet of Things Based Digital Twin Model Construction and Online Fault-Tolerant Control of Hypersonic Flight Vehicle
Authors: Zhang Daqiao , Li Shaopeng , Xu Jian , Hu Xiaoxiang
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes a novel framework for the online fault-tolerant control of hypersonic flight vehicles (HFV). The framework contains two steps. Firstly, based on the Internet of Things (IoT) and digital twin (DT) technology, a hypersonic flight vehicle digital twin (HFVDT) model is constructed. This HFVDT model can represent the real model and the parameter changes in HFV in real-time, and can update itself by the designed updating law through the flight data acquired by IoT. Then, the model changes caused by a fault can be fed back in real-time. Based on the real-time model, a model predictive static programming (MPSP) based controller design method is proposed to solve the online fault-tolerant control problem of HFV. MPSP provides a feasible online solution to optimal control problems with constraints. By converting the nonlinear optimal control problem to a static optimization the problem, the quantity of computation is greatly reduced, and then the optimal can be solved online. By the HFVDT and MPSP framework, the model change can be monitored and then an optimal controller can be constructed in real time. In this case, the fault-tolerant control problem of HFV can solved and the tracking performance is guaranteed. Finally, the novel framework is carried out on a numeral simulation to show its effectiveness.
Pedagogic Strategies and Contents in Medical Writing/Publishing Education: A Comprehensive Systematic Survey
Authors: Astaneh Behrooz , Abdullah Ream , Astaneh Vala , Gupta Sana , Brignardello-Petersen Romina , Levine Mitchell A. H. , Guaytt Gordon
Published: September 2024

Workshops or training sessions on medical writing and publishing exist worldwide. We aimed to evaluate published articles about such workshops and examine both the content and teaching strategies employed. We searched ISI Web of Science, Ovid EMBASE, ERIC, Ovid Medline, and the grey literature. We considered no language, geographical location, or time period limitations. We included randomized controlled trials, before–after studies, surveys, cohort studies, and program evaluation and development studies. We descriptively reported the results. Out of 222 articles that underwent a full-text review, 30 were deemed eligible. The educational sessions were sporadic, with researchers often developing their own content and methods. Fifteen articles reported teaching the standard structure of medical articles, ten articles reported on teaching optimal English language use for writing articles, nine articles discussed publication ethics issues, and three articles discussed publication strategies to enhance the chance of publication. Most reports lacked in-depth descriptions of the content and strategies used, and the approach to those topics was relatively superficial. Existing workshops have covered topics such as the standard structure of articles, publication ethics, techniques for improving publication rates, and how to use the English language. However, many other topics are left uncovered. The reports and practice of academic-teaching courses should be improved.
Determination, Evaluation, and Validation of Representative Low-Voltage Distribution Grid Clusters
Authors: Weiß Andreas , Wendlinger Elisabeth , Hecker Maximilian , Praktiknjo Aaron
Published: September 2024

Decarbonizing the mobility and heating sector involves increasing connected components in low-voltage grids. The simulation of distribution grids and the incorporation of an energy system are relevant instruments for evaluating the effects of these developments. However, grids are highly diversified, and with over 900,000 low-voltage grids in Germany, the simulation would require significant data management and computing capacity. A solution already applied in the literature is the simulation of representative grids. Here, we show the compatibility of clusters and representatives for grid topologies from the literature and further extend and validate them by applying accurate grid data. Our analysis indicates that clusters from the literature unify well across three key parameters but also reveals that the clusters still exclude a relevant amount of grids. Extension, reclassification, and validation using about 1200 real grids establish meta-clusters covering the spectrum of grids from rural to urban regions, focusing on residential to commercial supply tasks. We anticipate our assay to be a further relevant step toward typifying low-voltage distribution grids in Germany.
Dealing with Anomalies in Day-Ahead Market Prediction Using Machine Learning Hybrid Model
Authors: Pilot Karol , Ganczarek-Gamrot Alicja , Kania Krzysztof
Published: September 2024

Forecasting the electricity market, even in the short term, is a difficult task, due to the nature of this commodity, the lack of storage capacity, and the multiplicity and volatility of factors that influence its price. The sensitivity of the market results in the appearance of anomalies in the market, during which forecasting models often break down. The aim of this paper is to present the possibility of using hybrid machine learning models to forecast the price of electricity, especially when such events occur. It includes the automatic detection of anomalies using three different switch types and two independent forecasting models, one for use during periods of stable markets and the other during periods of anomalies. The results of empirical tests conducted on data from the Polish energy market showed that the proposed solution improves the overall quality of prediction compared to using each model separately and significantly improves the quality of prediction during anomaly periods.
Influence of Structural Parameters of Tesla Valve Flow Field on Performance of Fuel Cells
Authors: Guo Hui , Tian Shaopeng , Wang Long , Xiao Congda , Pan Yuxin , Xie Wenlong , Yang Shujin
Published: September 2024

The optimization of flow channel structures significantly impacts the performance enhancement of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In this paper, the influences of the loop radius, inclination angle, and presence of the island in the Tesla valve flow field on the performance of a fuel cell were investigated numerically. The results indicated that increasing the inclination angle and curvature radius of the Tesla valve increased the voltage by 16.3% and 31.1%, respectively, compared to the parallel flow field at 0.8 A/cm2. Elevating the inclination angle amplified the resistance effect exerted by tributaries on the main stream, consequently fostering channel-to-membrane mass transfer. Increasing the curvature radius contributed to a heightened total oxygen concentration, but also led to water accumulation problems. The removal of islands increased the reactant contact area, but also created more dead zones, resulting in an observed improvement compared to the parallel flow field, but only marginal improvements over the basic Tesla flow field.
Using Consumer Loss Aversion to Investigate the Effect of Stackelberg Pricing for New-Energy Vehicles
Authors: Zhang Shuang , Du Yueping , Wang Linxue
Published: September 2024

Compared to the development history of traditional FVs (fossil-fuel vehicles), although NEVs (new-energy vehicles) have many advantages and huge development potential, they are still in the early stages of development. The current research about NEV diffusion mainly focuses on policies, competition, and cooperation with FVs, as well as consumer-related factors, in which consumers are generally assumed as rational. In order to study the impact of irrational consumer factors on NEV diffusion, this study takes the prospect theory into consideration. Through a literature analysis, the loss-aversion factor is introduced to establish a Stackelberg game model, in which the FV market is the leader and the NEV market is the follower. A backward induction method is used to solve the optimal decision strategy of each party in the game, and the Python Sympy library is employed for calculation and simulation. The results show that as the loss-aversion reference point λ increases, the price, demand, and profit of NEVs increase, while the price, demand, and profit of FVs decrease, and their sum profit also shows a downward trend. While, as the loss-aversion degree k increases, the price, demand, and profit of NEVs decrease, while the price, demand, and profit of FVs increase, and their sum profit also shows an upward trend.
Grading Evaluation of Marbling in Wagyu Beef Using Fractal Analysis
Authors: Suzuki Yuya , Yue Bao
Published: September 2024

Wagyu beef is gaining worldwide popularity, primarily due to the fineness of its marbling. Currently, the evaluation of this marbling is performed visually by graders. This method has several issues: varying evaluation standards among graders, reduced accuracy due to long working hours and external factors causing fatigue, and fluctuations in grading standards due to the grader’s mood at the time. This paper proposes the use of fractal analysis for the grading evaluation of beef marbling to achieve automatic grading without the inconsistencies caused by human factors. In the experiments, cross-sectional images of the parts used for visual judgment were taken, and fractal analysis was performed on these images to evaluate them using fractal dimensions. The results confirmed a correlation between the marbling evaluation and the fractal dimensions, demonstrating that quantitative evaluation can be achieved, moving away from qualitative visual assessments.
Molecular Cloning of QwMYB108 Gene and Its Response to Drought Stress in Quercus wutaishanica Mayr
Authors: Zhao Xuefei , Sun Ying , Wang Yong , Shao Di , Chen Gang , Jiang Yiren , Qin Li
Published: September 2024

Drought is a significant environmental limiting factor that restricts the growth of Quercus wutaishanica Mayr. The MYB transcription factor plays a wide role in controlling the growth of plants. In this study, the QwMYB108 gene was cloned and the bioinformatics was analyzed, and we examined how QwMYB108 responded to various gradient drought stresses. The results demonstrated that QwMYB108 encoded 275 amino acids using an 828 bp open reading frame. Subcellular localization indicated that the gene was located in the nucleus. Phylogenetic analysis showed that QwMYB108 was close to Q. robur, and that the highest level of expression was found in leaves, which was significantly different from other tissues. The expression of QwMYB108 increased as the stress degree rose when drought stress was present, and there was a significant difference between severe drought stress and other gradient stress. In this study, the function of QwMYB108 in drought stress response was investigated, and the drought response function gene of Q. wutaishanica was further explored to provide a theoretical basis.
At the Intersection of Flood Risk and Social Vulnerability: A Case Study of New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Authors: Garcia-Rosabel Stefanie , Idowu Dorcas , Zhou Wendy
Published: September 2024

Urban flooding is becoming more frequent and severe due to the impact of climate change, underscoring the urgent need for effective flood risk management. This study investigates the dynamics of flood risk through two decades, from 2000 to 2020, in New Orleans, United States—a city historically marked by catastrophic flooding events. This research also explores the spatial patterns of socially vulnerable neighborhoods at the census tract level and patterns that have changed over the two decades. The Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI) was used to indirectly evaluate flood risks over time utilizing Landsat 5 and Landsat 8 satellite imagery and geospatial analyses. Thematic mapping and geospatial analysis were used to generate maps revealing neighborhoods at the intersection of high flood risk and social vulnerability in New Orleans. Integrating flood maps derived from satellite observations with Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) calculations provides a comprehensive view of flood dynamics in the context of social vulnerability in an urban setting. The final composite products provide insight into zones where past resilience-building and risk-reduction efforts have reduced vulnerability in New Orleans and identify zones requiring intervention. The findings demonstrate how integrated data-driven analysis can inform urban infrastructure and policy development, thereby promoting discussions on urban resilience and the nuanced understanding of interactions between urban settings and flood risks, potentially aiding in implementing adaptive strategies to build resilience in New Orleans.
Clinical Pathophysiology and Research Highlights of Cardiac Angiosarcoma: Obligation for Immunogenetic Profiling to Understand Their Growth Pattern and Tailor Therapies
Authors: Kanuri Sri Harsha , Vegi Yashashree Apparao
Published: September 2024

Cardiac angiosarcoma is the most common malignant tumor of the heart. The typical clinical profile is a young male with 30–50 years of age. Due to varied clinical presentation, it can disguise common cardiovascular disorders, such as pericarditis, congestive cardiac failure, and angina. This can delay the diagnosis, thus allowing the tumor to progress to the advanced stage by the time it is detected. Depending on tumor grade and size, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation is advocated. Despite aggressive management, these tumors have a propensity to recur, advance, and metastasize, thereby underscoring the treatment resistance commonly encountered with these tumors. Resultantly, most of the patients are more prone to have shorter survival time, worse clinical outcomes, and grave prognosis. Research efforts should be directed toward decoding the inherent immune-genetic traits of these aggressive tumors so that their rapid progression can be extensively repressed. So, we propounded basic and clinical research studies to grasp the genetic makeup of these tumors so that crafting novel therapeutic modalities for improving prognosis and survival interval in these malignant tumors can materialize.
Problematic Use of Smartphones and Social Media on Sleep Quality of High School Students in Mexico City
Authors: Olivares-Guido Cristopher Martín , Tafoya Silvia Aracely , Aburto-Arciniega Mónica Beatriz , Guerrero-López Benjamín , Diaz-Olavarrieta Claudia
Published: September 2024

Background: Smartphones, internet access, and social media represent a new form of problematic behavior and can affect how teens sleep. Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed to examine the prevalence and association of problematic internet use and problematic smartphone use with sleep quality in a non-probability sample of 190 high school students in Mexico. The internet-related experiences questionnaire (IREQ), the mobile-related experiences questionnaire (MREQ), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used. Results: The study revealed that 66% of participants exhibited some form of problematic internet use, primarily in the form of social media use; 68% had some form of problematic smartphone use, and 84% reported poor sleep quality. The PSQI score was most accurately predicted by problematic smartphone use (MREQ), followed by enrollment in the morning school shift, participation in sports, the father’s education level, and knowledge that “smartphone use disturbs sleep”, which together explained 23% of the variation in sleep quality. Conclusions: Excessive smartphone use may negatively affect sleep quality in adolescents. We recommended that interventions be implemented to educate adolescents about appropriate and healthy use of technology, in parallel with the promotion of preventive sleep habits.
Changes in Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Parameters Caused by Addition of Amphotericin B to Cladosporium cladosporioides Melanin and DOPA-Melanin—Free Radical Studies
Authors: Zdybel Magdalena , Pilawa Barbara , Witoszyńska Teresa , Wrześniok Dorota
Published: September 2024

Cladosporium cladosporioides are the pigmented soil fungi containing melanin. The aim of this work was to determine the influence of amphotericin B on free radicals in the natural melanin isolated from pigmented fungi Cladosporium cladosporioides and to compare it with the effect in synthetic DOPA-melanin. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra were measured at X-band (9.3 GHz) with microwave power in the range of 2.2–70 mW. Amplitudes, integral intensities, linewidths of the EPR spectra, and g factors, were analyzed. The concentrations of free radicals in the tested melanin samples were determined. Microwave saturation of EPR lines indicates the presence of pheomelanin in addition to eumelanin in Cladosporium cladosporioides. o-Semiquinone free radicals in concentrations ~1020 [spin/g] exist in the tested melanin samples and in their complexes with amphotericin B. Changes in concentrations of free radicals in the examined synthetic and natural melanin point out their participation in the formation of amphotericin B binding to melanin. A different influence of amphotericin B on free radical concentration in Cladosporium cladosporioides melanin and in DOPA-melanin may be caused by the occurrence of pheomelanin in addition to eumelanin in Cladosporium cladosporioides. The advanced spectral analysis in the wide range of microwave powers made it possible to compare changes in the free radical systems of different melanin polymers. This study is important for knowledge about the role of free radicals in the interactions of melanin with drugs.
Boehmeria Nivea Extract (BNE-RRC) Reverses Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Inhibits Anchorage-Independent Growth in Tumor Cells
Authors: Chen Shiow-Ling , Hu Suh-Woan , Lin Yuh-Yih , Liao Wen-Li , Yang Jaw-Ji
Published: September 2024

The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype, identified as a significant clinical indicator in regard to cancer, manifests as a biological process wherein cells transition from having epithelial to mesenchymal characteristics. Physiologically, EMT plays a crucial role in tissue remodeling, promoting healing, repair, and responses to various types of tissue damage. This study investigated the impact of BNE-RRC on oral cancer cells (KB) and revealed its significant effects on cancer cell growth, migration, invasion, and the EMT. BNE-RRC induces the epithelial-like morphology in KB cells, effectively reversing the EMT to a mesenchymal–epithelial transition (MET). Extraordinarily, sustained culturing of cancer cells with BNE-RRC for 14 days maintains an epithelial status even after treatment withdrawal, suggesting that BNE-RRC is a potential therapeutic agent for cancer. These findings highlight the promise of BNE-RRC as a comprehensive therapeutic agent for cancer treatment that acts by inhibiting cancer cell growth, migration, and invasion while also orchestrating a reversal of the EMT process. In this study, we propose that BNE-RRC could be an effective agent for cancer treatment.
The Potential Use of Arsenic Trioxide in the Treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Mok Tsz Ching , Mok Chi Chiu
Published: September 2024

Arsenic trioxide (ATO) is now part of the standard regimen for the treatment of newly diagnosed and relapsed acute promyelocytic leukemia. The availability of an oral form of ATO has greatly reduced the incidence of cardiotoxicity as compared to intravenous (IV) administration. Increasing evidence suggests that ATO has anti-inflammatory properties that may be useful for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. These include the modulation of Treg cell activation, Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg balance, depletion of activated T cells and plasmacytoid dendritic cells, and influence of B-cell differentiation, leading to reduced autoantibody and cytokine production. ATO has also been shown to induce apoptosis of activated fibroblast-like synoviocytes through the generation of reactive oxygen species and alter the gut microbiota in collagen-induced arthritis. Despite the emergence of newer treatment modalities, the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), especially refractory manifestations, remains a challenge, owing to the paucity of effective biological and targeted therapies that are devoid of adverse effects. Oral ATO is an attractive option for the treatment of SLE because of the lower cost of production, convenience of administration, and reduced cardiotoxicity. This article summarizes the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of ATO and its potential application in the treatment of SLE and other rheumatic diseases.
The Disease-Modifying Effects of a Single Intra-Articular Corticosteroid Injection during the Freezing Phase of Frozen Shoulder in an Animal Model
Authors: Ahn Yongjin , Lee Sun-Jae , Moon Yong Suk , Lee Yoon-Jin , Park Jung Hyun , Chun Yongmin , Kwon Dong Rak , Lee Sang Chul
Published: September 2024

Although frequently prescribed for frozen shoulder, it is not known if corticosteroid injections improve the course of frozen shoulder. This study aimed to assess the disease-modifying effects of an intra-articular corticosteroid administration at the freezing phase of frozen shoulder. Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups. Their unilateral shoulders were immobilized for the first 3 days in all groups, followed by an intra-articular corticosteroid injection in Group A, an injection and the cessation of immobilization in Group B, no further intervention in Group C, and the cessation of immobilization in Group D. All rats were sacrificed in Week 3 of study, at which point the passive shoulder abduction angles were measured and the axillary recess tissues were retrieved for histological and Western blot analyses. The passive shoulder abduction angles at the time of sacrifice were 138° ± 8° (Group A), 146° ± 5° (Group B), 95° ± 11° (Group C), 132° ± 8° (Group D), and 158° ± 2° (Control). The histological assessments and Western blots showed greater fibrosis and inflammation in the groups that did not receive the corticosteroid injection (Groups C and D) compared to the corticosteroid-injected groups (Groups A and B). These findings demonstrate the anti-inflammatory and disease-modifying effects of corticosteroid injections during the freezing phase of frozen shoulder in an animal model.
Glial Cells as Key Regulators in Neuroinflammatory Mechanisms Associated with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Theophanous Styliani , Sargiannidou Irene , Kleopa Kleopas A.
Published: September 2024

Even though several highly effective treatments have been developed for multiple sclerosis (MS), the underlying pathological mechanisms and drivers of the disease have not been fully elucidated. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in studying neuroinflammation in the context of glial cell involvement as there is increasing evidence of their central role in disease progression. Although glial cell communication and proper function underlies brain homeostasis and maintenance, their multiple effects in an MS brain remain complex and controversial. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the contribution of glial cells, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglia in the pathology of MS during both the activation and orchestration of inflammatory mechanisms, as well as of their synergistic effects during the repair and restoration of function. Additionally, we discuss how the understanding of glial cell involvement in MS may provide new therapeutic targets either to limit disease progression or to facilitate repair.
Oxidative Stress and Annexin A2 Differential Expression in Free Fatty Acids-Induced Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Arruda Vinícius Marques , Azevedo Gabriela Tolentino , Granato Maria Júlia Maia Gonçalves , Matos André Carlos Pereira , Araújo Thaise Gonçalves , Guerra Joyce Ferreira da Costa
Published: September 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a rising global burden, affecting one in four adults. Despite the increasing prevalence of NAFLD, the exact cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unclear, and effective therapeutic strategies are still limited. In vitro models of NAFLD are critical to understanding the pathogenesis and searching for effective therapies; thus, we evaluated the effects of free fatty acids (FFAs) on NAFLD hallmarks and their association with the modulation of Annexin A2 (ANXA2) and Keratin 17 (KRT17) in HepG2 cells. Our results show that oleic and palmitic acids can differentially induce intracellular lipid accumulation, cell death, and promote oxidative stress by increasing lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, and antioxidant defense depletion. Moreover, a markedly increased expression of inflammatory cytokines demonstrated the activation of inflammation pathways associated with lipotoxicity and oxidative stress. ANXA2 overexpression and KRT17 nuclear translocation were also observed, supporting the role of both molecules in the progression of liver disease. Taken together, these data provide insights into the interplay between ANXA2 and KRT17 in NAFLD, paving the way for understanding molecular mechanisms involved with the disease and developing new therapeutic strategies.