bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization and Application of Bio-Enzyme-Enhanced Gel-Breaking Technology in Fracturing Fluids for Tight Sandstone Gas in the Linxing Block, Ordos Basin
Authors: Hu Jiachen , Wang Gaosheng , Yao Weida , Li Yu , Jing Meiyang , Lan Tian , Xie Zhongxu , Du Anxun
Published: February 2025

The main tight sandstone gas reservoirs in the Linxing block of the Ordos Basin exhibit a temperature range of 35–60 °C. Under these low-temperature conditions, conventional oxidative gum breakers used in fracturing operations react sluggishly, fail to break the gum completely, and can cause significant reservoir damage. In order to achieve complete breakage of the fracturing fluid and reduce the damage to the fracture and reservoir, active bio-enzyme-enhanced breakers have been incorporated into fracturing fluid formulations, so as to achieve rapid breakage, re-discharge at low temperature, and reduce the contact time between the fracturing fluid and the formation, which is critical for enhancing production efficiency. Based on the preliminary success of bio-enzyme-enhanced fracturing technology, this paper carries out an optimization study of bio-enzyme-enhanced fracturing technology for the low-temperature reservoir in the Ordos Linxing block. The study simulates the temperature recovery of the injected fluids under different reservoir temperatures during the fracturing process, aiming to further optimize the concentration of the bio-enzyme-enhanced fracture breakers in the fracturing phases, and to achieve optimized fracturing technology which is more in line with the temperature environment of the fluids. This can further optimize the concentration of the bio-enzyme breaker added at each fracturing stage, and achieve enhanced breaking in a stepwise manner that is more in line with the fluid temperature environment, thus improving the efficiency and production capacity for subsequent production. The optimized fracturing fluid system, incorporating the tailored concentration of the bio-enzyme breaker, was applied to 54 wells in this block, resulting in about a two-times improvement in production compared to conventional non-optimized methods, with many wells achieving high output. These results demonstrate the strong applicability of the optimized breaker procedure in this geological context. Additionally, this study investigated an optimization model for the well shut-in time during winter operations involving low-temperature fracturing fluids in low-temperature reservoirs, providing a valuable design basis for future production planning.
Memory as Part of an Event, and Events as Signification of Memories: Focusing on Philippe Claudel’s Brodeck’s Report
Authors: Jeong Yongtaek
Published: February 2025

This paper attempts to reconceptualize memory as an event from a theological perspective, drawing on the recent dialog between memory studies and Critical Event Studies. To this end, it analyzes the narrative and themes of the 2007 novel Brodeck’s Report by Philippe Claudel, classified as a third-generation Holocaust (narrative) writer in France, within the framework of event studies. The novel has been praised for successfully depicting the tragedy as a universal event transcending spatial–temporal specificity by utilizing the genre of allegory while minimizing references to the historical and geographical specificity of the Holocaust. Extending this evaluation, this paper particularly focuses from a theological perspective on how the protagonist and narrator, Brodeck, simply names the subject of his report—a past event that happened to an unidentified other (Autre) called the ‘Anderer’—as ‘Ereignis’ (event). This is noteworthy because Ereignis is not only the most famous concept representing late Heideggerian philosophy but also holds significant importance in post-Heideggerian modern philosophy as the speculative source of the ‘evental turn’, which, along with the ‘material turn’, constitutes one axis of the ‘ontological turn’ in contemporary humanities and social sciences. In this regard, this work, which narrativizes the universality of the Holocaust, provides interesting implications for the possibility of a disjunctive synthesis between memory studies in the humanities and social sciences and theological event studies. Above all, it stimulates a reconsideration of the conventional dichotomy between memory and event—namely, the commonplace premise of “events that occurred in the past” and “present memories of past events”—as revealed in the definition of memory studies as “naming pasts, transforming futures”. Thus, this paper explores the possibility of reconceptualizing the moment of memory as part of the ongoing event itself from past to present, and the event as a process of symbolic construction of meaning through memory.
Towards the Optimization of TanSat-2: Assessment of a Large-Swath Methane Measurement
Authors: Zhu Sihong , Yang Dongxu , Feng Liang , Tian Longfei , Liu Yi , Cao Junji , Wu Kai , Cai Zhaonan , Palmer Paul I.
Published: February 2025

To evaluate the potential of an upcoming large-swath satellite for estimating surface methane (CH₄) fluxes at a weekly scale, we report the results from a series of observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs) that use an established modeling framework that includes the GEOS-Chem 3D atmospheric transport model and an ensemble Kalman filter. These experiments focus on the sensitivity of CH₄ flux estimates to systematic errors (μ) and random errors (σ) in the column average methane (XCH4) measurements. Our control test (INV_CTL) demonstrates that with median errors (μ = 1.0 ± 0.9 ppb and σ = 6.9 ± 1.6 ppb) in XCH₄ measurements over a 1000 km swath, global CH4 fluxes can be estimated with an accuracy of 5.1 ± 1.7%, with regional accuracies ranging from 3.8% to 21.6% across TransCom sub-continental regions. The northern hemisphere mid-latitudes show greater reliability and consistency across varying μ and σ levels, while tropical and boreal regions exhibit higher sensitivity due to limited high-quality observations. In σ-sensitive regions, such as the North American boreal zone, expanding the swath width from 1000 km to 3000 km significantly reduces discrepancies, while such adjustments provide limited improvements for μ-sensitive regions like North Africa. For TanSat-2 mission, with its elliptical medium Earth orbit and 1500 km swath width, the global total estimates achieved an accuracy of 3.1 ± 2.2%. Enhancing the swath width or implementing a dual-satellite configuration is proposed to further improve TanSat-2 inversion performance.
Multi-Source, Fault-Tolerant, and Robust Navigation Method for Tightly Coupled GNSS/5G/IMU System
Authors: Deng Zhongliang , Zhang Zhichao , Ding Zhenke , Liu Bingxun
Published: February 2025

The global navigation satellite system (GNSS) struggles to deliver the precision and reliability required for positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services in environments with severe interference. Fifth-generation (5G) cellular networks, with their low latency, high bandwidth, and large capacity, offer a robust communication infrastructure, enabling 5G base stations (BSs) to extend coverage into regions where traditional GNSSs face significant challenges. However, frequent multi-sensor faults, including missing alarm thresholds, uncontrolled error accumulation, and delayed warnings, hinder the adaptability of navigation systems to the dynamic multi-source information of complex scenarios. This study introduces an advanced, tightly coupled GNSS/5G/IMU integration framework designed for distributed PNT systems, providing all-source fault detection with weighted, robust adaptive filtering. A weighted, robust adaptive filter (MCC-WRAF), grounded in the maximum correntropy criterion, was developed to suppress fault propagation, relax Gaussian noise constraints, and improve the efficiency of observational weight distribution in multi-source fusion scenarios. Moreover, we derived the intrinsic relationships of filtering innovations within wireless measurement models and proposed a time-sequential, observation-driven full-source FDE and sensor recovery validation strategy. This approach employs a sliding window which expands innovation vectors temporally based on source encoding, enabling real-time validation of isolated faulty sensors and adaptive adjustment of observational data in integrated navigation solutions. Additionally, a covariance-optimal, inflation-based integrity protection mechanism was introduced, offering rigorous evaluations of distributed PNT service availability. The experimental validation was carried out in a typical outdoor scenario, and the results highlight the proposed method’s ability to mitigate undetected fault impacts, improve detection sensitivity, and significantly reduce alarm response times across step, ramp, and multi-fault mixed scenarios. Additionally, the dynamic positioning accuracy of the fusion navigation system improved to 0.83 m (1σ). Compared with standard Kalman filtering (EKF) and advanced multi-rate Kalman filtering (MRAKF), the proposed algorithm achieved 28.3% and 53.1% improvements in its 1σ error, respectively, significantly enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the multi-source fusion navigation system.
Long-Term Prediction of Mesoscale Sea Surface Temperature and Latent Heat Flux Coupling Using the iTransformer Model
Authors: Hu Xuwei , Feng Yuan , Liu Jiahao , Xu Yuanxiang , Song Shengyu
Published: February 2025

Mesoscale air–sea interaction, which is active in Western Boundary Currents (WBCs), has a non-negligible effect on mid-latitude climate variability. The analysis and prediction of the mesoscale air–sea interaction rely on high-resolution observation datasets and mesoscale-resolving climate models, which often require long processing times to estimate future changes and have several limitations. Therefore, in this study, we used a newly developed iTransformer model, which integrates mesoscale sea surface temperature anomaly (SSTa) and latent heat flux anomaly (LHFa) coupling coefficient data to predict future changes in SSTa–LHFa coupling. First, we individually trained the model using data corresponding to 1–15 past winters from ERA5 dataset. Thereafter, we used the trained model to predict SSTa–LHFa coupling coefficient for the next 10 winters. Compared with the predictions using only the coupling coefficient, the prediction yields 3.0% relative improvements when SST data were incorporated. The iTransformer model also showed the ability to reproduce the linear trend and mean value of mesoscale SSTa–LHFa coupling coefficients. Furthermore, we chose the optimal input length for each WBC and used the model to predict changes in mesoscale SSTa–LHFa coupling in the future. The results thus obtained were comparable to those obtained using mesoscale-resolving climate models, indicating that the iTransformer model showed satisfactory prediction performance. Therefore, it provides a novel pathway for exploring mesoscale air–sea interaction variations and predicting future climate change.
Profit or Growth? The Impacts of Supplier Dependence and Customer Dependence on SMEs’ Performance
Authors: Zhang Hao , Hu Miao , Jiang Shenyang
Published: February 2025

Previous research on supply chain dependence has predominantly focused on large firms, leaving a significant gap in the literature regarding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), an often overlooked but crucial sector of the economy. This study aims to address this gap by examining the relationship between supply chain dependence (i.e., supplier dependence, customer dependence) and SMEs’ performance—specifically profit and growth. We employ a multiple linear regression model with two-way fixed effects (firm and year) to analyze data from SMEs listed on China’s National Equities Exchange and Quotations (NEEQ) from 2013 to 2020, investigating the impact of supplier dependence and customer dependence on SMEs’ profitability and growth. We find that customer dependence has a significant positive effect on both SMEs’ profit and growth, while supplier dependence negatively impacts SMEs’ profit but does not significantly affect SMEs’ growth. Additionally, we conduct a heterogeneity analysis to explore how the influences of supplier dependence and customer dependence on SMEs’ performance vary based on SMEs’ characteristics, such as age, initial size, and innovation orientation. This research not only enhances the existing literature on supply chain dependence by providing insights specific to SMEs but also offers practical recommendations for improving supply chain management strategies within these firms.
Advancing Sustainability Through Machine Learning: Modeling and Forecasting Renewable Energy Consumption
Authors: Zournatzidou Georgia
Published: February 2025

This research provides a thorough examination of the industrial sector’s forecasting of renewable energy consumption, utilizing sophisticated machine learning techniques to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the predictions. LASSO regression, random forest (RF), Support Vector Regression (SVR), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost 2.1.3), LightGBM, and multilayer perceptron (MLP) were all selected due to their ability to effectively handle large datasets. Our primary goal was to demonstrate the utility of the Energy Uncertainty Index (EUI) within commonly accepted models to ensure replicability and relevance to a broad audience. The integration of the EUI as an independent variable is a critical innovation of this research, as it addresses the challenges presented by fluctuations in energy markets. A more nuanced comprehension of consumption trends in the presence of uncertainty is achieved through this inclusion. We evaluate the performance of these models in the context of renewable energy consumption forecasting, identifying their strengths and limitations. The results indicate that the prognostic potential of the models is considerably improved by the inclusion of the EUI, providing valuable insights for energy policymakers, investors, and industry stakeholders. These advancements emphasize the role of machine learning in achieving efficient resource allocation, guiding infrastructure development, minimizing risks, and supporting the global transition toward renewable energy and sustainability.
Verifying the “Porter Effect” of Green Credit Policy on Upstream Suppliers in the Green Supply Chain
Authors: Yao Jingmin , Yu Zhihui , Yan Zhenjun , Wang Yanfang
Published: February 2025

In striking contrast to the hot debate on the effect of the Green Credit Policy (GCP) on heavy-polluting enterprises (HPEs), little attention has been paid to the policy effect on upstream enterprises of HPEs in the green supply chain. Using the data of China’s A-share listed companies from 2009 to 2020 and regarding the promulgation of GCP as a quasi-natural experiment, we manually collect upstream suppliers providing source control and end-of-pipe treatments to HPEs and investigate the impact of GCP on the green innovation in these suppliers. Findings show that: (i) The GCP promotes green innovation in upstream suppliers of HPEs, especially those providing end-of-pipe treatments. Such findings hold after a series of robustness tests. (ii) Green innovation in these suppliers increases alternatively after promulgating the policy. A higher-than-average growth in green innovation in SOEs (state-owned enterprises) supplying advanced equipment for source control, non-SOEs providing end-of-pipe treatments, large-scale enterprises, as well as suppliers in cities with well-developed finance systems, suggesting that these enterprises are more likely to collaborate with HPEs under credit constraints. (iii) Insight into the potential mechanisms reveals that the credit policy can effectively improve internal environmental concerns and demand-induced trade credits of upstream suppliers to green the supply chain.
Large-Scale Renewable Energy Integration: Tackling Technical Obstacles and Exploring Energy Storage Innovations
Authors: Ergun Sadettin , Dik Abdullah , Boukhanouf Rabah , Omer Siddig
Published: February 2025

The global transition to renewable energy sources (RESs) is accelerating to combat the rapid depletion of fossil fuels and mitigate their devastating environmental impact. However, the increasing integration of large-scale intermittent RESs, such as solar photovoltaics (PVs) and wind power systems, introduces significant technical challenges related to power supply stability, reliability, and quality. This paper provides a comprehensive review of these challenges, with a focus on the critical role of energy storage systems (ESSs) in overcoming them by evaluating their technical, economic, and environmental performance. Various types of energy storage systems, including mechanical, electrochemical, electrical, thermal, and chemical systems, are analyzed to identify their distinct strengths and limitations. This study further examines the current state and potential applications of ESSs, identifying strategies to enhance grid flexibility and the increased adoption of RESs. The findings reveal that while each ESS type has specific advantages, no single technology can tackle all grid challenges. Consequently, hybrid energy storage systems (HESSs), which combine multiple technologies, are emphasized for their ability to improve efficiency and adaptability, making them especially suitable for modern power grids.
Estimating Health and Economic Benefits from PM2.5 Reduction in Fishery-Based Communities: A Sector-Specific Approach to Sustainable Air Quality Management in the Philippines
Authors: Lesidan James Roy , Caido Nadine Grace , Semblante Oliver , Roque Floro Junior , Bulan Jejomar , Cadondon Jumar , Galvez Maria Cecilia , Vallar Edgar
Published: February 2025

Fast-developing countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, are critically susceptible to high concentrations of inhalable fine particulate pollution (PM2.5), which threatens public health and economic development. This study evaluates the incremental reduction in PM2.5 concentrations and its potential health and economic benefits, focusing on sustainable air quality management in vulnerable communities, particularly in the fisheries sector in the Philippines. Using satellite-derived PM2.5 data and the Environmental Benefits Mapping and Analysis Program–Community Edition (BenMAP-CE) model, the estimated premature mortality rates and the associated costs under various concentration reduction scenarios (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) for the regions of Navotas, Bohol, and Davao Del Sur revealed substantial health and economic benefits. Under 25–50% reduction scenarios, it could prevent annual premature mortalities of 55–104 in the three regions, generating approximately USD 1.15 million in monetary benefits. A more considerable 75–100% reduction scenario could prevent up to 206 mortalities annually, yielding USD 2.07 million in monetary benefits. These benefits were notable in areas with higher baseline PM2.5 concentrations, such as Navotas and Davao Del Sur, which experienced significant reductions in premature mortality within the range of 1–3% of the fisherfolk population. These findings highlight the incremental reduction strategies in a sector-specific approach to protect vulnerable communities crucial for economic development. The developed approach aims to improve the air quality in fishing-dependent regions to ensure sustainable livelihoods across the Philippines while meeting national and global health targets.
The Role of Government Procurement in Sustainable Industry Development—The Trends and Research Agenda
Authors: Wang Nannan , Cui Naixiao , Hao Junlin , Chai Yilin
Published: February 2025

Government procurement (GP) has evolved beyond a mere administrative activity and has emerged as a powerful policy instrument to guide industry development directions. The existing literature often falls short in providing an exhaustive interpretation of such a role of GP in the critical industry sectors. This study employs a two-stage approach, comprising database construction, filtering, coding, and statistical analysis, aimed at conducting a systematic bibliometric review of the studies related to GP to identify its functionalities, including promoting sustainable development, initiating new industry policies, and stimulating innovation. The most addressed industry sectors by researchers are manufacturing, food, agriculture, and construction. Environmental science is the most explored research field, and the circular economy appears as the most recent bursting keyword. The insights from this review identify research gaps and challenges, based on which the proposing directions for future research are suggested, including promoting a circular economy, the sustainable development of the healthcare sector, protecting sustainable supply chains, efficiency evaluation, the application of artificial intelligence technologies in procurement, and exploring inter-functional relationships in GP.
Sustainability Pressures Unveiled: Navigating the Role of Organizational Sustainable Culture in Promoting Sustainability Performance
Authors: Khan Farman Ullah , Badulescu Daniel
Published: February 2025

In today’s dynamic world, environmental issues are increasing alarmingly. Consequently, improving sustainability performance has become a critical priority. This study fills a significant research gap by examining the relationships between external environmental factors, organizational sustainable culture, and sustainable performance. Importantly, this study investigates the mediating role of organizational culture between external environmental factors (customer pressure, regulatory pressure, government support, environmental uncertainty) and green performance. Questionnaire data from 214 personnel from manufacturing organizations in China were collected, and Smart PLS 4.0 was used for analysis. The results reveal that all external environmental factors significantly influence organizational culture. In addition, the organizational culture significantly mediates the relationships between external environmental factors and green performance. This study contributes to understanding how external factors shape organizational culture, subsequently influencing sustainable performance. This study offers a new perspective on the indirect role corporate culture plays in environmental outcomes. Policymakers and managers should foster a sustainable work culture to address external demands for green performance.
Policies for Achieving Carbon Reduction in China from 1995 to 2022: A Review and Content Analysis
Authors: Zhou Kai , Qu Ziyi , Wang Jun , Chen Jianli , Zhang Junkai
Published: February 2025

The formulation and implementation of carbon reduction policies are pivotal strategies for attaining the Carbon Peaking and Carbon Neutrality objectives in China, yet there has been limited in-depth research at the policy level. This study systematically compiled 179 central government carbon reduction policy documents and 1183 local government carbon reduction policy documents from China. These policies were classified into command-and-control (CC), market-based (MB), and public participation (PP) categories based on their policy tools. Through detailed content analysis, the intensity of each policy within each category was calculated and the distributions of both quantity and intensity were analyzed. Subsequently, a multiple regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of policy intensity on carbon emissions at the provincial level. The findings highlight a more pronounced policy activity and intensity in the eastern regions relative to the central and western regions, reveal the dominance of CC policies in terms of both their prevalence and intensity, and identify a counterintuitive increase in carbon emissions associated with CC policies. This research elucidates the landscape of China’s carbon reduction policies, offering nuanced insights into their distribution, intensity, and effectiveness in lowering carbon emissions, often a major concern of policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders.
Modified Entire Forgotten Topological Index of Graphs: A Theoretical and Applied Perspective
Authors: Saleh Anwar , Zeyada Nasr , Alharthi Musab S.
Published: February 2025

Topological indices are numerical invariants derived from graph structures that are essential tools used in computational chemistry and biology for encoding molecular information. By exploiting the inherent symmetries of molecular graphs, we develop efficient algorithms to compute these indices, particularly for large and complex molecules. These indices are rooted in vertex degrees, edge degrees, and other graph parameters, have been extensively studied, and are crucial for understanding the relationship between molecular structure and properties. Recent research has focused on the entire Zagreb indices, which integrate both vertex and edge degrees considering adjacency and incidence relationships. This paper introduces a novel variant, namely, the modified forgotten entire Zagreb index. The efficacy of this new index is underscored by its robust correlation with the physical and chemical properties of octane isomers and lower benzenoid hydrocarbons. Additionally, we derive explicit formulas for this index for several significant graph families.
Unified Spatial-Frequency Modeling and Alignment for Multi-Scale Small Object Detection
Authors: Liu Jing , Wang Ying , Cao Yanyan , Guo Chaoping , Shi Peijun , Li Pan
Published: February 2025

Small object detection in aerial imagery remains challenging due to sparse feature representation, limited spatial resolution, and complex background interference. Current deep learning approaches enhance detection performance through multi-scale feature fusion, leveraging convolutional operations to expand the receptive field or self-attention mechanisms for global context modeling. However, these methods primarily rely on spatial-domain features, while self-attention introduces high computational costs, and conventional fusion strategies (e.g., concatenation or addition) often result in weak feature correlation or boundary misalignment. To address these challenges, we propose a unified spatial-frequency modeling and multi-scale alignment fusion framework, termed USF-DETR, for small object detection. The framework comprises three key modules: the Spatial-Frequency Interaction Backbone (SFIB), the Dual Alignment and Balance Fusion FPN (DABF-FPN), and the Efficient Attention-AIFI (EA-AIFI). The SFIB integrates the Scharr operator for spatial edge and detail extraction and FFT/IFFT for capturing frequency-domain patterns, achieving a balanced fusion of global semantics and local details. The DABF-FPN employs bidirectional geometric alignment and adaptive attention to enhance the significance expression of the target area, suppress background noise, and improve feature asymmetry across scales. The EA-AIFI streamlines the Transformer attention mechanism by removing key-value interactions and encoding query relationships via linear projections, significantly boosting inference speed and contextual modeling. Experiments on the VisDrone and TinyPerson datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of USF-DETR, achieving improvements of 2.3% and 1.4% mAP over baselines, respectively, while balancing accuracy and computational efficiency. The framework outperforms state-of-the-art methods in small object detection.
Elevated Plasma Angiopoietin-like 4 Protein Levels in Adult Patients with Dengue
Authors: Khaing Win , Lau Suk Hiang , Thein Tun-Linn , Tan Nguan Soon , Alonso Sylvie , Vasoo Shawn , Chia Po Ying , Lye David Chien Boon , Leo Yee Sin , Chow Vincent T. K.
Published: February 2025

Dengue virus infection can cause severe complications due to vascular leakage. Angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) regulates vascular permeability, but its role in dengue pathogenesis is unclear. This study investigated the association between plasma ANGPTL4 levels and dengue severity in Singapore adults. Plasma samples from 48 dengue patients (24 severe and 24 non-severe) during acute and convalescent phases were selected from the prospective COhort study on progression of DENgue severity in Singapore adults (CODEN) cohort. The CODEN was conducted at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, from June 2016 to January 2020. ANGPTL4 levels were measured and compared to 152 healthy controls. Logistic regression assessed the relationship between plasma ANGPTL4 concentrations and disease severity. There were no statistically significant differences in ANGPTL4 levels between severe and non-severe dengue patients during acute (677.4 vs. 909.1 pg/mL, p = 0.4) or convalescent phases (793.7 vs. 565.6 pg/mL, p = 0.96). Plasma ANGPTL4 levels were significantly elevated during acute dengue (4634.3 pg/mL) versus healthy controls (907.4 pg/mL), declining during convalescence. Compared to the lowest tertile, the adjusted odds ratios for severe dengue were 0.36 (95%CI: 0.08–1.65, p = 0.190) for medium tertile and 0.57 (95%CI: 0.13–2.49, p = 0.456) for high tertile. Among patients with high ANGPTL4 levels (>5000 pg/mL), 36.4% developed severe complications, including significant plasma leakage. Plasma ANGPTL4 levels were significantly higher in dengue patients than controls, suggesting its potential as a biomarker, which warrants future detailed investigations. Larger prospective studies with serial sampling, including pediatric populations, may clarify the role of ANGPTL4 in severe dengue.
Advancing Health Solutions: Practical Considerations for Multipurpose Prevention Technologies in Sub-Saharan Africa’s Fight Against HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Unintended Pregnancies
Authors: Mgodi Nyaradzo M. , Murombedzi Caroline , Murewanhema Grant , Moyo Enos , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa
Published: February 2025

Sub-Saharan African (SSA) women experience a high prevalence of HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unintended pregnancies, necessitating effective, integrated prevention strategies. Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) offer a promising approach to address these overlapping health concerns by providing single products that simultaneously prevent HIV, other STIs, and/or unintended pregnancies. Given the persistent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) challenges faced by women in SSA, in this opinion piece, we explore practical considerations for MPT adoption and scale-up within the region. With this opinion article, we discuss the data on MPT development and identify key factors for successful MPT implementation in SSA. We examine the current MPT pipeline, product features, regulatory challenges, and structural, individual, and community barriers that impact MPT acceptance and usage among SSA women. Successful MPT uptake hinges on designing discreet, user-controlled products and engaging end-users, healthcare providers, and communities in product development and promotion. Structural factors such as robust supply chains, regulatory clarity, and financial support are also essential. Addressing socio-cultural norms, especially partner consent, and strengthening demand creation through community-driven, culturally sensitive strategies are critical for scaling MPTs. In conclusion, MPTs represent a transformative opportunity to reduce the burden of HIV, STIs, and unintended pregnancies in SSA. Strategic, culturally attuned approaches are essential to ensure the acceptability and accessibility of MPTs. Expedited pathways for regulatory approval, collaborative partnerships, and community-centered demand creation will be vital to realize the full potential of MPTs in advancing women’s SRH in SSA.
Environmental DNA Metabarcoding as a Promising Conservation Tool for Monitoring Fish Diversity in Dongshan Bay, China
Authors: Zhang Yanxu , He Weiyi , Wang Lei , Ou Danyun , Qiu Jinli , Li Weiwen , Huang Hao
Published: February 2025

Dongshan Bay is a typical subtropical semi-enclosed bay characterized by abundant fish resources. We aimed to assess fish diversity and its seasonal variation in Dongshan Bay and to provide a scientific basis for the sustainable management and conservation of the fishery’s resources. In this study, we employed environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding technology to analyze fish diversity in the bay during winter 2023 and summer 2024. A total of 76 fish species were detected across 12 sampling sites, with 43 species identified in summer and 45 species seen in winter. Overall, 13 species were detected in both the winter and summer. Non-significant differences were observed in Alpha diversity among the sampling sites. Fish species richness at the HXH2 site was the lowest among all the sampling sites for the reason that this sampling site was near to the effluent outlet of the Zhangzhou nuclear power plant and notably influenced by the thermal discharge. In general, fish diversity and abundance were higher in winter than in summer. RDA test analysis revealed that water temperature and dissolved oxygen were the primary environmental factors influencing fish distribution in summer. In winter, the influence of various factors is relatively balanced, with chlorophyll and Blue Green Algae Phycoerythrin (BGA PE) having a relatively greater impact than other factors. Our results offer valuable insights into enhancing fish diversity management in Dongshan Bay.
VRDeepSafety: A Scalable VR Simulation Platform with V2X Communication for Enhanced Accident Prediction in Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: BaniSalman Mohammad , Aljaidi Mohammad , Elgeberi Najat , Alsarhan Ayoub , Al Mamlook Rabia Emhamed
Published: February 2025

Safe real-world navigation for autonomous vehicles (AVs) requires robust perception and decision-making, especially in complex, multi-agent scenarios. Existing AV datasets are limited by their inability to capture diverse V2X communication scenarios, lack of synchronized multi-sensor data, and insufficient coverage of critical edge cases in multi-vehicle interactions. This paper introduces VRDeepSafety, a novel and scalable VR simulation platform that overcomes these limitations by integrating Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, including realistic latency, packet loss, and signal prioritization, to enhance AV accident prediction and mitigation. VRDeepSafety generates comprehensive datasets featuring synchronized multi-vehicle interactions, coordinated V2X scenarios, and diverse sensor data, including visual, LiDAR, radar, and V2X streams. Evaluated with our novel deep-learning model, VRFormer, which uniquely fuses VR sensor data with V2X using a probabilistic Bayesian inference, as well as a hierarchical Kalman and particle filter structure, VRDeepSafety achieved an 85% accident prediction accuracy (APA) at a 2 s horizon, a 17% increase in 3D object detection precision (mAP), and a 0.3 s reduction in response time, outperforming a single-vehicle baseline. Furthermore, V2X integration increased APA by 15%. Extending the prediction horizon to 3–4 s reduced APA to 70%, highlighting the trade-off between prediction time and accuracy. The VRDeepSafety high-fidelity simulation and integrated V2X provide a valuable and rigorous tool for developing safer and more responsive AVs.
An Energy-Saving Evaluation Method for Driving Behavior Based on the SHAP Scorecard Model
Authors: Zheng Guowen , Kong Deyang , Ding Chenyang , Hu Jiaming , Liu Zhanping
Published: February 2025

In order to fully examine how driving behavior affects vehicle energy consumption and further cut down on excessive energy use while driving, an energy-saving evaluation method for driving behavior based on the SHAP (Shapley Additive exPlanations) scorecard model is proposed. First, to categorize short trip segments, a LightGBM model is built, which performs better and has high interpretability. The SHAP method is then used to statistically assess the categorization findings in order to ascertain how various driving events and driving behavior characteristics affect energy consumption. After that, the data are converted into scores using a scorecard model, which is then used to examine the evaluation outcomes of each sample and individual driver. Lastly, by checking the distribution of scores and the pertinent factors for various scores, the scorecard model’s correctness and reasonableness in evaluating energy-saving driving practices of short-trip segments are confirmed.
Anti-Slip Control System with Self-Oscillation Suppression Function for the Electromechanical Drive of Wheeled Vehicles
Authors: Klimov Aleksandr V. , Antonyan Akop V. , Keller Andrey V. , Shadrin Sergey S. , Makarova Daria A. , Furletov Yury M.
Published: February 2025

The movement of a wheeled vehicle is a non-regular dynamic process characterized by a large number of states that depend on the movement conditions. This movement involves a large number of situations where elastic tires skid and slip against the base surface. This reduces the efficiency of movement as useful mechanical energy of the electromechanical drive is spent to overcome the increased skidding and slipping. Complete sliding results in the loss of control over the vehicle, which is unsafe. Processes that take place immediately before such phenomena are of special interest as their parameters can be useful in diagnostics and control. Additionally, such situations involve adverse oscillatory processes that cause additional dynamic mechanical and electrical loading in the electromechanical drive that can result in its failure. The authors provide the results of laboratory road research into the emergence of self-oscillatory phenomena during the rolling of a wheel with increased skidding on the base surface and a low traction factor. This paper reviews the methods of designing an anti-slip control system for wheels with an oscillation damping function and studies the applicability and efficiency of the suggested method using mathematical simulation of the virtual vehicle operation in the Matlab Simulink software package. Using the self-oscillation suppression algorithm in the control system helps reduce the maximum amplitude values by 5 times and average amplitudes by 2.5 times while preventing the moment operator from changing. The maximum values of current oscillation amplitude during algorithm changes were reduced by 2.5 times, while the current change rate was reduced by 3 times. The reduction in the current-change amplitude and rate proves the efficiency of the self-oscillation suppression algorithm. The high change rate of the current consumed by the drive’s inverters may have a negative impact on the remaining operating life of the rechargeable electric power storage system. This impact increases with the proximity of its location due to the low inductance of the connecting lines and the operating parameters, and the useful life of the components of the autonomous voltage inverters.
Results of surgery for vertebrobasilar insufficiency in patients with signs of vertebral artery V1 segment tortuosity
Authors:   FSAEI HE Peoples Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Dzhilkashiev B. S. , Antonov G. I. ,   FSAEI HE Peoples Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Chmutin G. E. ,   FSAEI HE Peoples Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Chmutin E. G. ,   FSAEI HE Peoples Friendship University of Russia, Moscow
Published: February 2025

The aim of the work is to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of differentiated surgical treatment
of V1 segment of the vertebral arteries stenotic lesions in patients with cerebrovascular accidents in the vertebrobasilar basin. Materials and methods. Treatment and subsequent observation of 114 patients with vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI) (69.9±9.8 years) were performed. They were included in 3 groups: group 1–55
patients — conservative treatment; group 2–24 patients — operations with the formation of anastomosis; group 3–35 patients who underwent resection operations. A comparison was made of the parameters of patients in groups 1, 2 and 3, before the start of treatment (surgery), 10 days later, 1 and 3 years after the operation (treatment).
Results. The clinical success of treatment in group 1 was 40.0 %, in groups 2 and 3 the values were
87.5 % and 94.3 % (p<0.05 relative to group 1). In the groups of patients who underwent resection, the frequency of manifestations of VBI symptoms (oculomotor, visual, auditory, static-coordination) was significantly lower than in groups 1 and 2. The Hofferberth scale score after 1 and 3 years was 3.5–3.8 times lower than in groups
1 and 2. The dopplerographic pattern in patients who underwent surgical treatment of VBI was characterized by more pronounced shifts in the linear parameters of blood flow and cerebrovascular reactivity of the vertebral arteries. The frequency of postoperative complications in patients of groups 2 and 3 was significantly lower than in patients who underwent conservative treatment. Conclusion. Surgical intervention aimed at eliminating vertebral
artery stenosis is the most promising method for treating cerebrovascular disorders in the vertebrobasilar basin. It is shown that surgical correction of vertebral artery stenosis is accompanied by both normalization of hemodynamics and elimination of neurological signs of functioning of the brainstem-cerebellar structures.
Influence of different extraction methods on the cannabinoid profile in Cannabis sativa oil
Authors: García-Castaño Samuel Giovanny , Gómez Diana Carolina Londoño , Santos Paula Fernanda Araujo , Perneth-Montaño Marvin José , Vásquez-Bettin Ana Milena , Lisboa Kelly Curvina , Pompelli Marcelo F.
Published: February 2025

The research focuses on optimizing extraction methods for Cannabis sativa to ensure the production of high-quality oils with consistent cannabinoid profiles, critical for therapeutic applications. The study highlights the plant’s medicinal potential, driven by bioactive compounds such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which are effective against various conditions, including epilepsy and chronic pain. The objective is to evaluate and compare advanced extraction techniques like supercritical CO₂, ethanol-based, and microwave-assisted extraction to identify methods that balance efficiency, yield, and sustainability. Upon exploration, the study reviewed scientific literature, analyzing efficiency metrics and cost-effectiveness across methods. Results underscore the superiority of supercritical CO₂ extraction for purity and pharmaceutical-grade standards but note its high cost. Ethanol-based techniques are cost-effective but require additional refinement. Microwave-assisted methods offer terpene preservation but lack scalability. These findings stress the need for hybrid techniques that integrate advantages while addressing limitations. The research concludes that standardization and technological innovations are essential to overcome inconsistencies in cannabinoid profiles, enhancing clinical and industrial viability. It advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration to improve extraction protocols, ensuring sustainable and effective use of Cannabis sativa in medicine.
Aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos da lofomoníase: uma revisão sistemática
Authors: Campos Clara Sessa , Santos Juan Uchida Ferrari , Gava Lara , Lakatos Lucas Lucindo , Lakatos Luiza Lucindo , Lorenzoni Silvia Maria Mauri , Silva Victor de Carvalho Teixeira , Almeida Yasmin Oliveira Gil de
Published: February 2025

Introdução: O Lophomonas spp. é um protozoário anaeróbio multiflagelado identificado como agente etiológico de infecções broncopulmonares chamadas de Lofomoníase, condição rara com pouco mais de 250 casos no mundo atual. O parasita está associado a imunossupressão do doente e a condições de higiene precárias em países subdesenvolvidos, infectando o hospedeiro através da liberação de cistos infecciosos ocasionando em diferentes desfechos clínicos. Objetivos: Evidenciar os fatores epidemiológicos da Lofomoníase pulmonar, caracterizando seus achados clínicos, os meios laboratoriais de diagnóstico e tratamentos propostos para elucidação da doença. Metodologia: Trata-se de uma revisão bibliográfica da literatura realizada através do levantamento da base de dados Science Direct, Scielo, Public Knowledge Project, e revistas profissionais independentes, onde encontram-se artigos científicos que abrangem diferentes cenários clínicos da Lofomoníase. Discussão: Ainda que tenha um diagnóstico raro e incidental em seres humanos, há mais de 200 relatos confirmados na atualidade. É responsável por acometer principalmente indivíduos imunossupressos, em uso de corticoides, diabéticos, transplantados, e em associação com a tuberculose, sem epidemiologia clara. Por apresentar propagação via inalação dos cistos, as vias aéreas são as mais acometidas, de forma que sintomas broncopulmonares sejam os mais prevalentes.  A visualização do parasita de forma laboratorial e exames radiológicos podem sugerir e confirmar a presença da patologia, e seu tratamento é usualmente realizado com doses individualizadas de Metronidazol. Conclusão: É imprescindível novas oportunidades de discussão a fim de reduzir o subdiagnóstico da Lofomoníase, além de uma investigação mais detalhada, experiência e conhecimento especializado.
Vacinação no primeiro ano de vida: análise dos efeitos da pandemia nos triênios pré e pós-COVID-19
Authors: Schreiner Vinícius Augusto , Prezotto Kelly Holanda , Polizer Bruna Barbara , Vanderlinde Karen Alice Colombani , Lugli Yana Clara , Ferreira Isabela Jemima , Silva Micaelli da Costa , Girotto Eduarda Tormem
Published: February 2025

A pandemia de COVID-19 impactou diversos setores da saúde pública, incluindo a vacinação infantil. Considerando a importância das imunizações no primeiro ano de vida para a prevenção de doenças e a promoção da imunidade coletiva, o presente estudo objetivou comparar a cobertura vacinal antes e após a pandemia, com foco nas vacinas recomendadas pelo calendário do Ministério da Saúde. Para tanto, realizou-se um estudo transversal utilizando dados do sistema DataSUS Tabnet, analisando o número de doses aplicadas nos triênios pré-pandêmico (2017-2019) e pós-pandêmico (2020-2022). A coleta de dados considerou critérios regionais e anuais de cobertura vacinal, e as médias dos dois períodos foram comparadas. Desse modo, observou-se uma redução na cobertura vacinal durante o período pós-pandêmico, com diferenças percentuais negativas de 8,51% no primeiro mês de vida, 3,98% entre 2 e 6 meses, e 3,94% entre 7 e 12 meses. Esses resultados indicam um impacto negativo da pandemia na adesão ao calendário vacinal infantil, refletindo a necessidade de estratégias eficazes para recuperação das taxas de vacinação. Conclui-se, portanto, que houve uma diminuição na cobertura vacinal no primeiro ano de vida, ressaltando os desafios impostos pela pandemia à saúde pública e à imunização de crianças.
Aspectos do tratamento não farmacológico na Doença Arterial Periférica
Authors: Sousa Enzo Mata de , Costa Laura Prudente de Souza , Gonçalves Beatriz Caldas , Santos Hanna Lara Machado , Rocha Arthur Farias , Braun Rodrigo Nunes , Farias Henrique Soares de Araújo Pereira , Cerqueira Bruno do Nascimento
Published: February 2025

A Doença Arterial Periférica (DAP) resulta da aterosclerose sistêmica, comprometendo o fluxo sanguíneo nos membros inferiores, com impactos na funcionalidade e qualidade de vida. Este estudo objetivou revisar a eficácia de intervenções não farmacológicas no manejo da DAP, com foco no exercício físico. Foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica sistemática na base PubMed de estudos publicados entre 2020 e 2025. Os resultados destacaram benefícios significativos do exercício supervisionado, incluindo melhora na capacidade funcional, composição corporal e controle da pressão arterial. Programas combinando exercícios aeróbicos e resistidos foram os mais eficazes, reduzindo também taxas de readmissão hospitalar. Entretanto, desafios como baixa adesão, barreiras estruturais e limitações na aplicação prática foram identificados. Conclui-se que intervenções baseadas em exercícios supervisionados são eficazes no manejo da DAP, mas estratégias adaptativas são necessárias para superar barreiras e ampliar a aplicabilidade clínica. Estudos futuros devem explorar abordagens comunitárias e tecnologias remotas para maximizar resultados.