bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Layer-by-Layer Deposition of Hollow TiO2 Spheres with Enhanced Photoelectric Conversion Efficiency for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Chava Rama Krishna , Yu Yeon-Tae , Kang Misook
Published: November 2024

Fabricating photoanodes with a strong light-scattering effect can improve the photoconversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In this work, a facile microwave hydrothermal process was developed to prepare Au@TiO2 core–shell nanostructures, and then the Au core was removed by etching, resulting in hollow TiO2. Morphological characterizations such as field emission scanning and transmission electron microscopy measurements have been used for the successful formation of core–shell and hollow TiO2 nanostructures. Next, we attempted to deposit the different-sized hollow TiO2-based microspheres simultaneously on the surface of small-sized TiO2 nanoparticles-based compact film as light-scattering layers via electrophoretic deposition. The deposited hollow TiO2 microspheres constitute bi- and tri-layers that not only improve the light-harvesting properties but also speed up the photogenerated charge transfer. Compared to commercial TiO2 compact film (4.75%), the resulting bi-layer and tri-layered films-based DSSCs displayed power conversion efficiencies of 6.33% and 8.08%, respectively. It is revealed that the deposited bi- and tri-layered films can enhance the light absorption ability via multiple photon reflection. This work validates a novel and controllable strategy to develop light-scattering layers with increased light-harvesting properties for highly efficient dye-sensitized solar cells.
Influence of Nutrition on Growth and Development of Metabolic Syndrome in Children
Authors: Quarta Alessia , Quarta Maria Teresa , Mastromauro Concetta , Chiarelli Francesco , Giannini Cosimo
Published: November 2024

Obesity is currently an increasing public health burden due to its related metabolic and cardiovascular complications. In Western countries, a significant number of people are overweight or obese, and this trend is, unfortunately, becoming increasingly common even among the pediatric population. In this narrative review, we analyzed the role of nutrition during growth and its impact on the risk of developing metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular complications later in life. An impactful role in determining the phenotypic characteristics of the offspring is the parental diet carried out before conception. During intrauterine growth, the main risk factors are represented by an unbalanced maternal diet, excessive gestational weight gain, and impaired glycemic status. Breastfeeding, on the other hand, has many beneficial effects, but at the same time the quality of breast milk may be modified if maternal overweight or obesity subsists. Complementary feeding is likewise pivotal because an early introduction before 4 months of age and a high protein intake contribute to weight gain later. Knowledge of these mechanisms may allow early modification of risk factors by implementing targeted preventive strategies.
Exploring COX-Independent Pathways: A Novel Approach for Meloxicam and Other NSAIDs in Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease Treatment
Authors: Cheng Lixia , Hu Zhenghui , Gu Jiawei , Li Qian , Liu Jiahao , Liu Meiling , Li Jie , Bi Xiaowen
Published: November 2024

As a fundamental process of innate immunity, inflammation is associated with the pathologic process of various diseases and constitutes a prevalent risk factor for both cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Studies have indicated that several non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including Meloxicam, may prevent tumorigenesis, reduce the risk of carcinogenesis, improve the efficacy of anticancer therapies, and reduce the risk of CVD, in addition to controlling the body’s inflammatory imbalances. Traditionally, most NSAIDs work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) activity, thereby blocking the synthesis of prostaglandins (PGs), which play a role in inflammation, cancer, and various cardiovascular conditions. However, long-term COX inhibition and reduced PGs synthesis can result in serious side effects. Recent studies have increasingly shown that some selective COX-2 inhibitors and NSAIDs, such as Meloxicam, may exert effects beyond COX inhibition. This emerging understanding prompts a re-evaluation of the mechanisms by which NSAIDs operate, suggesting that their benefits in cancer and CVD treatment may not solely depend on COX targeting. In this review, we will explore the potential COX-independent mechanisms of Meloxicam and other NSAIDs in addressing oncology and cardiovascular health.
Deciphering the Roots of Pharmacists’ Critical Thinking About Pseudoscientific Claims: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Watanabe Tomofumi , Matsumoto Mari , Ukawa Masami , Ohira Makoto , Tsunoda Masaru
Published: November 2024

The global trend toward self-medication has increased public reliance on over-the-counter treatments and health-related information, contributing to the spread of pseudoscientific claims in healthcare and posing serious public health risks. Pharmacists, as accessible healthcare professionals, play a crucial role in critically evaluating these claims and providing evidence-based guidance. However, little quantitative research has assessed pharmacists’ critical thinking regarding pseudoscientific claims or the factors influencing them. This study aims to evaluate the demographic factors affecting pharmacists’ critical thinking about pseudoscientific claims. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among pharmacists in hospitals, insurance pharmacies, and drugstores across Japan. The newly developed Pseudoscience Criticism Scale (PCS) measured attitudes toward pseudoscientific claims. Statistical analysis identified factors that form and influence critical thinking. This study revealed two primary dimensions: “Medical Superstitions and Unscientific Treatments” and “Natural Healing Superstitions”. Gender and educational background significantly impacted PCS scores, with male pharmacists and graduates from six-year pharmacy programs exhibiting higher skepticism. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing professional development in pharmacy education to strengthen critical thinking. The PCS is an effective tool for assessing this competency. Enhancing educational efforts is essential to equip pharmacists to effectively counter pseudoscientific claims and improve public health.
Speeches on Poetry
Authors: Deutscher Max
Published: November 2024

Paul Celan’s ‘Speeches’ determine what poetry is and why we need it. He does not want ‘timeless’ poetry but still ‘lays claim to infinity’; he would ‘reach through time’. He neither refuses poetry as contrary to reason, nor elevates it as pure immediacy of meaning. He questions the ambivalent attitudes towards art—as ‘artifice’ or as ‘profound’. Celan cuts into the loose fabric of such ordinary language to shape it. Those who trumpet ‘plain sense’ against such incisive art deface it as degenerate. Celan’s poetic language presents us as ‘of the earth’ and as ‘released from it’—Büchner’s Lenz seeks clarity in the silence of alpine light but falls into madness in his isolation. He is drawn towards the life of the villagers at the foot of the mountains. He perceives the warm household fires, but it is an illusion that he can be a part of that scene. Thus, Celan enquires into art’s intensity. It is at the risk of reciprocity that a reader entertains the language of a poem. Eliot’s old ‘shadow’ between ‘the idea and the reality’ now falls between the poet’s production and the reader’s reciprocation. The reader may need someone with a free hand to hold a lantern to the script.
A Triple-Tunable Dual-Band Metamaterial Absorber Based on Dirac Semimetal and InSb
Authors: Hu Baojing , Huang Ming , Cai Changjin , Yang Li
Published: November 2024

The dynamically triple-tunable dual-band metamaterial absorber that can be electrically, thermally, and magnetically controlled is proposed in this paper. The absorber is composed of bulk Dirac Semimetal (BDS), SiO2, and InSb layers. The physical absorption mechanism can be analyzed theoretically by the equivalent circuit model (ECM) and electric field intensity distributions at absorption peaks. In the absence of applied magnetic field, based on the bright–bright coupling effect, the average absorption rate of dual-band absorber can reach 99.4% when the Fermi energy of the BDS is 0.13 eV and the temperature of the InSb is 475 K. When the applied magnetic field is along the X axis, the absorption frequencies and rates of dual-band absorber can be electrically tuned by adjusting the BDS Fermi energy and thermally and magnetically controlled by adjusting the InSb temperature and magnetic field. Furthermore, the impacts of parameters in dual-band absorbers and the application prospects of the dual-band absorber model as a refractive index sensor are further discussed. This work provides a theoretical basis for the designs of triple-tunable absorbers and sensors.
Particle Size Inversion Based on L1,∞-Constrained Regularization Model in Dynamic Light Scattering
Authors: Li Changzhi , Dou Zhi , Wang Yajing , Shen Jin , Liu Wei , Zhang Gaoge , Yang Zhixiang , Fu Xiaojun
Published: November 2024

Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is a highly efficient approach for extracting particle size distributions (PSDs) from autocorrelation functions (ACFs) to measure nanoparticle particles. However, it is a technical challenge to get an exact inversion of the PSD in DLS. Generally, Tikhonov regularization is widely used to address this issue; it uses the L2 norm for both the data fitting term (DFT) and the regularization constraint term. However, the L2 norm’s DFT has poor robustness, and its regularization term lacks sparsity, making the solution susceptible to noise and a reduction in accuracy. To solve this problem, the Lp,q norm restrictive model is formulated to examine the impact of various norms in the DFT and regularization term on the inversion results. On this basis, combined with the robustness of DFT and the sparsity of regularization terms, an L1,∞-constrained Tikhonov regularization model was constructed. This model improves the inversion accuracy of PSD and offers a better noise-resistance performance. Simulation tests reveal that the L1,∞ model has strong noise resistance, exceptional inversion precision, and excellent bimodal resolution. The inversion outcomes for the 33 nm unimodal particles, the 55 nm unimodal, and the 33 nm/203 nm bimodal experimental particles show that L1,∞ reduces peak errors by at most 6.06%, 5.46%, and 12.12%/3.94% compared to L2,2, L1,2, and L2,∞ models, respectively. These simulations are validated by experimental data.
Novel Hybrid Catalysts of Cysteine Proteases Enhanced by Chitosan and Carboxymethyl Chitosan Micro- and Nanoparticles
Authors: Holyavka Marina , Redko Yulia , Goncharova Svetlana , Lavlinskaya Maria , Sorokin Andrey , Kondratyev Maxim , Artyukhov Valery
Published: November 2024

Micro- and nanoparticles of chitosan and carboxymethyl chitosan were synthesized, both with and without ascorbic acid. Methods were developed to form complexes between these micro- and nanoparticles and plant proteases—ficin, papain, and bromelain. It was demonstrated that the activity of cysteine protease complexes with carboxymethyl chitosan micro- and nanoparticles was higher compared to those with chitosan micro- and nanoparticles. Additionally, the complexes of ficin, papain, and bromelain with chitosan and carboxymethyl chitosan micro- and nanoparticles synthesized in the presence of ascorbic acid exhibited greater proteolytic activity than those formed with particles prepared without ascorbic acid. Molecular docking studies revealed that the amino acid residues of ficin, papain, and bromelain primarily interact with chitosan and carboxymethyl chitosan through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. The amino acid residues in the active sites of these enzymes participate in a complex formation, which likely contributes to the increased activity and stability of cysteine proteases in complexes with chitosan and carboxymethyl chitosan micro- and nanoparticles.
Inertinite Reflectance in Relation to Combustion Temperature
Authors: Gao Di , Chen Di , Cui Chi , Fu Xuebo , Yang Junjiao , Zhao Shilong , Wang Zhenzhi
Published: November 2024

Inertinite, a product of wildfire, holds important information on global temperature change. The relationship between its reflectance and temperature has been widely used to identify wildfire events in paleo-sedimentary environments, but the currently used equations relating inertinite reflectance and combustion temperature are subject to large errors. Therefore, to clarify the relationship between inertinite reflectance and combustion temperature further, we systematically analyzed changes in inertinite reflectance under different combustion durations based on the literature’s data. Results confirmed that inertinite reflectance is related to combustion duration. Disregarding combustion duration, the combustion equation is T=267.52+110.19×RoR2=0.91, where T is the combustion temperature, Ro% is the measured inertinite reflectance, and R2 is the correlation coefficient. Under a combustion duration of 1 h, the equation is T=273.57+113.89×RoR2=0.91, and under a combustion duration longer than 5 h (including 5 h), the equation is T=232.91+110.6×RoR2=0.94. These three equations not only account for the temporal factor, but are also more precise than the commonly used formula. This study provides a scientific basis for research on paleo-wildfire.
Evaluation of Kinetic and Thermodynamic Parameters of Pyrolysis and Combustion Processes for Bamboo Using Thermogravimetric Analysis
Authors: Lei Jialiu , Wang Yao , Wang Qihui , Deng Shiru , Fu Yongjun
Published: November 2024

As a typical forestry waste, bamboo has gained increasing attention for its potential applications. In order to optimize its valorization, understanding the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of bamboo pyrolysis and combustion is crucial. In this study, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was employed to examine bamboo powder’s pyrolysis and combustion behaviors under different temperature ramps in nitrogen and air environments, and the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters were evaluated using the Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO), Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), and Starink (STR) model-free approaches. The main findings are as follows. (1) The thermogravimetry (TG) and derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) (DTG) curves reveal that bamboo pyrolysis occurs in three distinct stages: drying, devolatilization, and carbonization. Similarly, combustion also proceeds through three stages: drying, devolatilization, and char combustion. Notable differences in the temperature ranges of the key stages were observed between pyrolysis and combustion. (2) The activation energies during the oxidative devolatilization stage of combustion are notably lower compared to those during pyrolysis devolatilization. The disparity in activation energy is even more pronounced in the third stage. (3) Thermodynamic analysis shows that the pyrolysis and combustion of bamboo are endothermic and non-spontaneous. It can be stably converted into value-added energy through the pyrolysis or combustion process. This study provides essential data to aid in designing and scaling up the thermochemical conversion processes for bamboo and promote its efficient valorization of bioenergy.
The Relationship Between Serum Cholesterol, Triglycerides, and Self-Reported Appetitive and Reactive Aggression, as Well as Violent Crimes in Male Forensic Patients with Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Montiel Felipe , Karanassios Georgios , Streb Judith , Dudeck Manuela , Fritz Michael
Published: November 2024

Numerous studies have linked lower levels of serum cholesterol with heightened aggression, violent crimes, and violent deaths across diverse populations, including forensic psychiatric patients, criminals, and the broad public. Interestingly, this association appears to be more pronounced in men than in women. Conversely, findings regarding serum triglycerides present a more nuanced picture, with some studies indicating heightened aggression with elevated levels and others suggesting the opposite. However, most studies have neglected to examine this phenomenon in conjunction with psychological traits. Additionally, no prior research has explored the association between serum lipid levels and different types of aggression, e.g., reactive, instrumental, or appetitive. Considering these gaps, our study aimed to assess serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels upon clinic admission and correlate them with scores from the Appetitive and Facilitative Aggression Scale (AFAS), a self-rating questionnaire assessing reactive and appetitive aggression. We conducted our investigation on a cohort of 135 forensic psychiatric patients undergoing drug addiction treatment under Section 64 of the German Criminal Code. This provision offers a nearly unique opportunity worldwide for individuals who have committed crimes under the influence of drugs or in the context of their addiction to receive specialized treatment. Using non-linear Spearman correlation analyses, we observed an inverse relationship between serum concentrations of both cholesterol and triglycerides and AFAS appetitive violence scores but not for reactive aggression. Additionally, triglyceride levels exhibited an inverse association with the prevalence of violent crimes as an index crime. In conclusion, blood lipids may affect numerous areas of health and disease beyond what is currently known, offering a potential shift in how we understand their role in aggression.
Optimizing the Automated Analysis of Inorganic Gunshot Residue Particles by SEM-EDX: From Synthetic Particle Standards to More Time-Efficient Settings for Daily Casework
Authors: Brożek-Mucha Zuzanna , Klag Iga
Published: November 2024

Gunshot residues deposited on all surfaces in the nearest vicinity of the shooting incident, when revealed, can contribute to the explanation of various aspects of such an incident for forensic purposes. Examinations of gunshot residue, mainly inorganic particles, at forensic laboratories are expected to be reliable and fast. This primarily depends on the performance of the used scanning electron microscope integrated with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer and the automatic program searching for particles of defined characteristics. Among the milestones on the pathway towards quality assurance in examinations of gunshot particles, the invention of the synthetic gunshot residue specimen ought to be named. Such a specimen with particles of known chemical content, size, and location is now used for proficiency testing, which is a condition for a forensic laboratory to obtain accreditation in this subject matter. In this publication, the need for optimization of the procedure for the examination of a synthetic specimen, in alignment with the necessary modifications for real gunshot particles, has been addressed. The presented process of validation resulted in two procedures. The first demonstrates the full capacity of the instrument for detecting all particles present in the synthetic specimen, including the 0.5 micrometer particle at the magnification of 250×. The other procedure is the modification of the first, however aiming at 1-micrometer particles or bigger (at the magnification of 120×) and allowing the necessary backscattered signal threshold changes depending on the actual composition of gunshot residue as well as the abundance of light element debris in the case of real gunshot particles.
The Evolution of a Social Movement: The Muslim Brotherhood’s Path Between Political Ambition and the Rejection of Armed Struggle
Authors: Duman Talha İsmail
Published: November 2024

This article examines the evolution of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, tracing its transformation from a social movement into a political party. This study investigates the conditions and dynamics that compelled the organization to engage in the political sphere and its efforts to distance itself from armed strategies. It explores the factors that have driven these changes and offers insights into potential future trajectories, especially in the context of the challenges faced by the Brotherhood following the military coup on 3 July 2013. Employing theoretical frameworks from studies on the transformation processes of similar movements and utilizing a process tracing methodology and in-depth interviews, the article seeks to understand how both historical and contemporary contexts have shaped the Brotherhood’s evolution and strategies. The findings suggest that, much like during previous periods of repression, the Brotherhood is likely to endure the current crisis and sustain its organizational presence. However, in doing so, it is expected to temporarily withdraw from political engagement. The article posits that, after completing this period of exile and resuming its activities in Egypt, the Brotherhood will likely continue as a social movement, stepping away from political involvement for a significant period.
Reconciling British Values with Professional Identity: The Pursuit of Ontological Security Among Muslim Teachers in England
Authors: Dilek Muzaffer Can
Published: November 2024

This article aims to investigate how the legal requirement to promote fundamental British values (FBVs) impacts Muslim teachers’ professional identity formation, utilising Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with self-identified Muslim teachers, including both male and female individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, employed in secondary schools across England. This study seeks to interpret Muslim teachers’ experiences through Anthony Giddens’ ontological security theory. Firstly, Muslim teachers expressed pride in being British and their successful integration into society. Secondly, the meaning of Britishness was elucidated by the participants through references to the values described in the current government guidelines on promoting FBVs. Finally, the impact of the obligation to promote FBVs on the professional identity formation of Muslim teachers points to a degree of ambivalence rooted in seeking ontological security. Certain teachers adopted an uncritical stance towards FBV policy, prioritising ‘values’ within the debate and thereby normalising the discourse surrounding FBVs. In contrast, others engaged in a critical analysis of FBV rhetoric, highlighting its adverse impact on academic discussions and their professional identities. From the perspective of ontological security theory, Muslim teachers are situated in a fragile position; while the majority grapple with ontological insecurity, others exist in a realm between ontological security and insecurity.
Side-Scan Sonar Image Generation Under Zero and Few Samples for Underwater Target Detection
Authors: Li Liang , Li Yiping , Wang Hailin , Yue Chenghai , Gao Peiyan , Wang Yuliang , Feng Xisheng
Published: November 2024

The acquisition of side-scan sonar (SSS) images is complex, expensive, and time-consuming, making it difficult and sometimes impossible to obtain rich image data. Therefore, we propose a novel image generation algorithm to solve the problem of insufficient training datasets for SSS-based target detection. For zero-sample detection, we proposed a two-step style transfer approach. The ray tracing method was first used to obtain an optically rendered image of the target. Subsequently, UA-CycleGAN, which combines U-net, soft attention, and HSV loss, was proposed for generating high-quality SSS images. A one-stage image-generation approach was proposed for few-sample detection. The proposed ADA-StyleGAN3 incorporates an adaptive discriminator augmentation strategy into StyleGAN3 to solve the overfitting problem of the generative adversarial network caused by insufficient training data. ADA-StyleGAN3 generated high-quality and diverse SSS images. In simulation experiments, the proposed image-generation algorithm was evaluated subjectively and objectively. We also compared the proposed algorithm with other classical methods to demonstrate its advantages. In addition, we applied the generated images to a downstream target detection task, and the detection results further demonstrated the effectiveness of the image generation algorithm. Finally, the generalizability of the proposed algorithm was verified using a public dataset.
Exploring the Contribution Roles from Municipal Cities in the Rise in Household CO2 Emissions in China: From a Local Scale Analysis in the Global Context
Authors: Qin Zilong , Sha Moquan , Li Xiaolei , Tu Jianguang , Tan Xicheng , Sha Zongyao
Published: November 2024

A major source of carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) arises from the household sector. Recent studies have reported increasing household CO2 emissions (HCO2) in many countries. Cities represent a key administrative level in China and can be managed to mitigate HCO2 if spatial and temporal variations in HCO2 are understood at fine scales. Here, we applied panel data analysis to map HCO2 at a pixel scale of 1 km in China using remotely sensed time series nighttime light data, grid population density data, and provincial energy consumption statistics from 2000 to 2020. Spatial and temporal variations in HCO2 were observed with four growth modes, including high growth (HG), low growth (LG), negative growth (NG), and high negative growth (HNG), for different periods, i.e., 2000–2010, 2010–2020, and 2000–2020. We proposed a local scale analysis of HCO2 growth patterns within a global context to assess the contribution roles of 372 municipal cities to the changes in the national total HCO2 (T-HCO2). The results indicated that T-HCO2 has tripled in the last two decades, but the roles of the contribution to the increase varied among cities. The local scale analysis revealed that more cities contributed to the rise in T-HCO2 through HG and LG than those that suppressed it through NG and HNG. The majority of the cities displayed contributions to the rise in T-HCO2 through two or more of the growth modes, confirming a significant variation in HCO2 across locations, even within a city. This study provides a new approach to understanding the roles cities play in the long-term dynamics of T-HCO2. We recommend increased efforts to encourage HCO2 mitigation in cities that have contributed to the rise in T-HCO2 to help neutralize carbon emissions at the national level.
Adaptive Granularity-Fused Keypoint Detection for 6D Pose Estimation of Space Targets
Authors: Gu Xu , Yang Xi , Liu Hong , Yang Dong
Published: November 2024

Estimating the 6D pose of a space target is an intricate task due to factors such as occlusions, changes in visual appearance, and background clutter. Accurate pose determination requires robust algorithms capable of handling these complexities while maintaining reliability under various environmental conditions. Conventional pose estimation for space targets unfolds in two stages: establishing 2D–3D correspondences using keypoint detection networks and 3D models, followed by pose estimation via the perspective-n-point algorithm. The accuracy of this process hinges critically on the initial keypoint detection, which is currently limited by predominantly singular-scale detection techniques and fails to exploit sufficient information. To tackle the aforementioned challenges, we propose an adaptive dual-stream aggregation network (ADSAN), which enables the learning of finer local representations and the acquisition of abundant spatial and semantic information by merging features from both inter-layer and intra-layer perspectives through a multi-grained approach, consolidating features within individual layers and amplifying the interaction of distinct resolution features between layers. Furthermore, our ADSAN implements the selective keypoint focus module (SKFM) algorithm to alleviate problems caused by partial occlusions and viewpoint alterations. This mechanism places greater emphasis on the most challenging keypoints, ensuring the network prioritizes and optimizes its learning around these critical points. Benefiting from the finer and more robust information of space objects extracted by the ADSAN and SKFM, our method surpasses the SOTA method PoET (5.8°, 8.1°/0.0351%, 0.0744%) by 0.5°, 0.9°, and 0.0084%, 0.0354%, achieving 5.3°, 7.2° in rotation angle errors and 0.0267%, 0.0390% in normalized translation errors on the Speed and SwissCube datasets, respectively.
Edge Detection of Source Body from Magnetic Anomaly Based on ResNet
Authors: Zhou Xinyi , Chen Zhaoxi , Chen Hong , Wang Shuai , Kubeka Zenzele Osborne
Published: November 2024

Utilizing magnetic anomaly data for effective edge detection of source bodies can provide crucial evidence for the delineation of geological units and the division of fault structures. However, the existing edge detection methods of source bodies from magnetic anomalies are influenced by factors such as the source bodies’ burial depth, magnetization direction, and mutual interference of magnetic anomalies, leading to errors in subsequent interpretation tasks. The advanced convolutional neural network possesses robust capabilities for feature representation and deep learning, prompting this paper to introduce an edge detection method for source bodies based on convolutional neural networks. The issue is initially framed as a semantic segmentation problem, and four network architectures aimed at edge detection of a source body from magnetic anomaly are designed and modified based on the U-Net and ResNet. Subsequently, a multitude of high-quality sample data sets are constructed using models with varying locations, scales, quantities, and physical properties to train the network. This paper then details model experiments that escalate from simple to complex, taking into account the combined effects of burial depth and inclined magnetization on edge detection. Compared to conventional edge detection methods, the method proposed in this paper is shown to accurately identify edges of source bodies at various depths with little impact from inclined magnetization and can automatically extract edge information without manual intervention. The method’s efficacy is corroborated through real data tests.
SAM-ResNet50: A Deep Learning Model for the Identification and Classification of Drought Stress in the Seedling Stage of Betula luminifera
Authors: Gao Shiya , Liang Hao , Hu Dong , Hu Xiange , Lin Erpei , Huang Huahong
Published: November 2024

Betula luminifera, an indigenous hardwood tree in South China, possesses significant economic and ecological value. In view of the current severe drought situation, it is urgent to enhance this tree’s drought tolerance. However, traditional artificial methods fall short of meeting the demands of breeding efforts due to their inefficiency. To monitor drought situations in a high-throughput and automatic approach, a deep learning model based on phenotype characteristics was proposed to identify and classify drought stress in B. luminifera seedlings. Firstly, visible-light images were obtained from a drought stress experiment conducted on B. luminifera shoots. Considering the images’ characteristics, we proposed an SAM-CNN architecture by incorporating spatial attention modules into classical CNN models. Among the four classical CNNs compared, ResNet50 exhibited superior performance and was, thus, selected for the construction of the SAM-CNN. Subsequently, we analyzed the classification performance of the SAM-ResNet50 model in terms of transfer learning, training from scratch, model robustness, and visualization. The results revealed that SAM-ResNet50 achieved an accuracy of 1.48% higher than that of ResNet50, at 99.6%. Furthermore, there was a remarkable improvement of 18.98% in accuracy, reaching 82.31% for the spatial transform images generated from the test set images by applying movement and rotation for robustness testing. In conclusion, the SAM-ResNet50 model achieved outstanding performance, with 99.6% accuracy and realized high-throughput automatic monitoring based on phenotype, providing a new perspective for drought stress classification and technical support for B. luminifera-related breeding work.
A Discrete Brain Storm Optimization Algorithm for Hybrid Flowshop Scheduling Problems with Batch Production at Last Stage in the Steelmaking-Refining-Continuous Casting Process
Authors: Peng Kunkun , Zhang Chunjiang , Shen Weiming , Pang Xinfu , Mei Yanlan , Deng Xudong
Published: November 2024

The iron and steel industry is energy-intensive due to the large volume of steel produced and its high-temperature and high-weight characteristics, sensors such as high-temperature application sensors can be utilized to collect production data and support the process control and optimization. Steelmaking-refining-continuous casting (SRCC) is a bottleneck in the iron and steel production process. SRCC scheduling problems are worldwide problems and NP-hard. The problems are not only important for iron and steel enterprises to enhance production efficiency, but also play a significant role in saving energy and reducing resource consumption. SRCC scheduling problems can be modeled as hybrid flowshop scheduling problems with batch production at the last stage. In this paper, a Discrete Brain Storm Optimization (DBSO) algorithm is proposed to handle SRCC scheduling problems. In the proposed DBSO, population initialization and cluster center replacement are specially designed to enhance the intensification abilities. Moreover, a perturbation operator is devised to enhance its diversification abilities. Furthermore, a new individual generation operator is devised to improve the intensification and diversification abilities simultaneously. Experimental results have demonstrated that the proposed DBSO is an efficient method for solving SRCC scheduling problems.
Fatty Acid Profiling in Greek Wines by Liquid Chromatography–High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (LC-HRMS)
Authors: Kokotou Maroula G.
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the interest in lipids present in wines has increased, because these natural components, even at low or very low concentrations, play an important role in wine evolution and quality and contribute substantially to the taste and mouthfeel of wines. Herein, we present a liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) method for the profiling of free fatty acids (FFAs) in wines. The method is fast and allows the simultaneous determination of twenty-seven saturated and unsaturated FFAs in wine samples, avoiding any prior derivatization step. After validation, a variety of white and rose commercial wine samples from the Greek market, either sparkling or non-sparkling, were analyzed by the present method. The majority of wine FFAs are saturated long aliphatic, in particular palmitic (C16:0) and stearic (C18:0) acids, followed by myristic (C14:0) and pentadecanoic (C15:0) acids, while oleic (C18:1), palmitoleic (C16:1) and linoleic (C18:2) acids were quantified among the unsaturated FAs. The medium-chain C6:0 and the unsaturated C16:1 and C18:2 acids were found at higher concentrations in rose wines compared to white.
Prevalence of Premature Ejaculation: A Narrative Review of National and Cultural Differences
Authors: Tamas Stella , Mirnics Zsuzsanna , Hevesi Krisztina , Rowland David L.
Published: November 2024

The prevalence of premature ejaculation (PE) across different cultures and nationalities has long been a topic of debate, with early studies suggesting that men in such regions as the Middle East and Asia experience higher rates. However, the validity of these claims has been questioned due to methodological inconsistencies and the lack of comparative studies that apply uniform diagnostic criteria across different populations. This narrative review aims to analyze the existing literature to assess whether justifiable support for cultural or national differences regarding PE prevalance truly exists. The review focused on empirical studies spanning from 1995 to 2024 that included men from multiple nationalities or cultures. Studies on patient or specialized populations or that assessed only ejaculation latencies (EL) were excluded. Three categories of studies were reviewed: (1) studies including multiple nationalities within a single analysis, (2) studies from different countries that used an identical method to determine PE status, and (3) studies employing varied methodologies to determine PE status. The review found that differences in PE prevalence across cultures are more likely due to methodological variations than true cultural or national differences. While some trends, such as slightly higher rates in Latin American and Asian countries, were noted, no consistent patterns emerged. Studies using standardized methods, like the PEDT, generally showed prevalence rates between 5% and 15%, with no clear outliers across regions. Thus, current evidence does not support significant cultural or national differences in PE prevalence. Methodological inconsistencies, such as reliance on self-report and non-standardized diagnostic criteria, likely contribute to perceived differences. Future research should focus on using standardized methodologies and include more studies from underrepresented regions, such as Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa.
Bridging Perceptual Gaps: Designers vs. Non-Designers in Urban Wayfinding Signage Preferences
Authors: Zhou Jialu , Ujang Norsidah , Manan Mohd Shahrudin Abd , Abdul Aziz Faziawati
Published: November 2024

As urban environments become increasingly complex and the costs and challenges of infrastructure upgrades continue to rise, wayfinding signage has become an effective solution to cope with urban dynamics due to its low cost and high flexibility. Although the functionality of wayfinding signage has been extensively studied, the perceptual differences between designers and non-designers have not been adequately explored. Ignoring these differences may lead to the overlooking of users’ real and diverse needs, resulting in suboptimal signage performance in practical applications and ultimately a reduction in the overall functionality and user experience of urban spaces. This study aims to bridge this perceptual gap. For this study, we conducted a questionnaire survey in China to compare the visual preferences of designers and non-designers regarding text, shape, color coding, and patterns. The results indicate that designers prioritize functionality and clarity to ensure the effective use of signage in complex urban environments, whereas non-designers prefer wayfinding signages that reflect local cultural symbols and characteristics. Our conclusions suggest that the public’s expectations for wayfinding signage extend beyond basic navigational functions, with an emphasis on cultural expression and visual appeal. Understanding these perceptual differences is crucial in developing design strategies that balance functionality, esthetics, and sustainability, thereby facilitating the sustainable integration of signage into urban landscapes.
Green Knowledge Sharing and the Green Performance Nexus: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Saleem Farida , Pinto Luisa , Malik Muhammad Imran
Published: November 2024

Green knowledge sharing plays a pivotal role in enhancing businesses’ environmental performance by promoting sustainable practices, innovation, and operational efficiency. Using a knowledge-based view [KBV], the current investigation aims to explore a moderated mediation model to investigate the relationship between green knowledge sharing and green performance. Green creativity is proposed as an explanatory variable that explains the relationship between green knowledge sharing and green performance, while green human capital is proposed as a boundary condition for green knowledge sharing and green creativity relationships. Data from 266 respondents working at managerial levels in different firms with offices in Riyadh were collected using the snowball sampling technique and were used to analyze the proposed moderated mediation model. The findings indicate that green creativity significantly mediates the relationship between green knowledge sharing and green performance, and green human capital moderates the relationship between green knowledge sharing and green creativity. This study highlights the importance of knowledge sharing and creativity in enhancing green performance. It also suggests that organizations investing in green human capital can strengthen these relationships. The results also offer practical insights for policymakers and managers on how green knowledge sharing can foster sustainable environmental performance.
Innovation Reefs (I-Reef): Innovation Ecosystems Focused on Regional Sustainable Development
Authors: Lima Angelica Duarte , Przybysz André Luiz , Resende David Nunes , Pagani Regina Negri
Published: November 2024

The creation of successful innovation ecosystems, like Silicon Valley, is challenging due to significant cultural, infrastructural, and resource differences between regions. In this context, the Innovation Reef (I-Reef) model emerges as a promising alternative, offering an approach for regions with limited resources to develop successful innovation ecosystems based on cooperation and mutual benefit among participants. This model has great potential to promote regional development, especially due to its focus on retaining and sharing the value generated. However, the role of I-Reef in sustainable regional development still needs to be further explored. Thus, the objective of this study is to deepen the theoretical understanding of the I-Reef model by analyzing its contribution to sustainable development. To achieve this, a comparison was made between I-Reef and established models such as business, innovation, knowledge, and entrepreneurial ecosystems. A systematic literature review conducted on Scopus found 704 articles published in the last three decades. The purpose was to identify the similarities and differences between the models of innovation business ecosystem models. The results show that there is alignment between I-Reef and the different ecosystems on several points. A central aspect of I-Reef is that it relies on a strong network of mutually beneficial relationships, much more oriented to sustainable development than the other models, which is a key factor in generating competitive advantage and development for the region. This characteristic is either not addressed or not placed at the core of the ecosystems discussed in the literature. For future research, empirical studies and validation of the I-Reef model with experts are suggested, as this theoretical study lays the foundation for more in-depth analyses.
Towards the Future of Ubiquitous Hyperspectral Imaging: Innovations in Sensor Configurations and Cost Reduction for Widespread Applicability
Authors: Podlesnykh Ivan , Kovalev Michael , Platonov Pavel
Published: November 2024

Hyperspectral imaging is currently under active development as a method for remote sensing, environmental monitoring and biomedical diagnostics. The development of hyperspectral sensors is aimed at their miniaturization and reducing the cost of components for the purpose of the widespread use of such devices on unmanned aerial vehicles and satellites. In this review, we present a broad overview of recent work on the development of hyperspectral devices’ configurations, studies aimed at modifying sensors and the possibility of reducing the cost of components of such devices. In addition, we will present the main trends in the development of hyperspectral device configurations for ubiquitous applications.
Lessons from Recent Measles Post-Campaign Coverage Surveys Worldwide
Authors: Danovaro-Holliday M. Carolina , Koh Mitsuki , Steulet Claudia , Rhoda Dale A. , Trimner Mary Kay
Published: November 2024

Background: Measles elimination strategies include supplementary immunization activities (SIAs) to rapidly fill immunity gaps. Post-campaign coverage surveys (PCCSs) are recommended to assess SIA coverage. We characterized selected PCCSs performed following recent SIAs, highlighting specific challenges and strengths, and provide recommendations for improvement. Methods: We extracted national SIA data from the global measles/MR SIA database for the period of 2020–2023 and reviewed PCCS reports available at the World Health Organization headquarters. We extracted selected information on PCCS implementation, including information about the implementer, sampling, and main results. Results: Only 15 of 66 countries (23%) with a national-level SIA performed since 2020 had a PCCS report available. We reviewed those reports, plus six more, following three 2019 SIAs with a delayed PCCS and two PCCSs following large subnational SIAs (Kenya 2021 and Yemen 2023). All 24 PCCS reports available were from Gavi-eligible countries, with 15 from South Saharan Africa (Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Ethiopia had two PCCSs). Eleven (45.8%) PCCSs were conducted within three months of the end of the SIA. All included sampling information and most had percentage of participation. Description of the interviewers’ profiles varied but was limited. PCCS coverage was lower than administrative data in all but two instances. All PCCSs collected data on previous measles vaccination status that would allow exploring indicators on the SIA reaching previously measles zero-dose children. Of the 12 PCCSs reporting coverage among previously measles zero-dose children, nine reported coverage among this group of more than 50% (range: 12% and 91.6%). Conclusion: Even though a PCCS following an SIA is recommended and a requirement in Gavi-supported countries, most SIAs are not followed by a PCCS and, when performed, the timeliness of survey implementation needs improvement. Recent PCCSs were independently conducted and reports included basic survey information, but analysis and presentation of survey results vary particularly for measles zero-dose-related indicators. More guidance and technical support on how to implement PCCSs, including standardization of reports and more in-depth PCCS analyses, may help improve reporting and use of available PCCS data.