bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED: Chen et al. An Infrared Small Target Detection Method Based on a Weighted Human Visual Comparison Mechanism for Safety Monitoring. Remote Sens. 2023, 15, 2922
Authors: Chen Yuanyuan , Wang Huiqian , Pang Yu , Han Jinhui , Mou En , Cao Enling
Published: April 2024

The journal retracts the article titled “An Infrared Small Target Detection Method Based on a Weighted Human Visual Comparison Mechanism for Safety Monitoring” [...]
MYFix: Automated Fixation Annotation of Eye-Tracking Videos
Authors: Alinaghi Negar , Hollendonner Samuel , Giannopoulos Ioannis
Published: April 2024

In mobile eye-tracking research, the automatic annotation of fixation points is an important yet difficult task, especially in varied and dynamic environments such as outdoor urban landscapes. This complexity is increased by the constant movement and dynamic nature of both the observer and their environment in urban spaces. This paper presents a novel approach that integrates the capabilities of two foundation models, YOLOv8 and Mask2Former, as a pipeline to automatically annotate fixation points without requiring additional training or fine-tuning. Our pipeline leverages YOLO’s extensive training on the MS COCO dataset for object detection and Mask2Former’s training on the Cityscapes dataset for semantic segmentation. This integration not only streamlines the annotation process but also improves accuracy and consistency, ensuring reliable annotations, even in complex scenes with multiple objects side by side or at different depths. Validation through two experiments showcases its efficiency, achieving 89.05% accuracy in a controlled data collection and 81.50% accuracy in a real-world outdoor wayfinding scenario. With an average runtime per frame of 1.61 ± 0.35 s, our approach stands as a robust solution for automatic fixation annotation.
Research on Surface Defect Detection of Strip Steel Based on Improved YOLOv7
Authors: Lv Baozhan , Duan Beiyang , Zhang Yeming , Li Shuping , Wei Feng , Gong Sanpeng , Ma Qiji , Cai Maolin
Published: April 2024

Surface defect detection of strip steel is an important guarantee for improving the production quality of strip steel. However, due to the diverse types, scales, and texture structures of surface defects on strip steel, as well as the irregular distribution of defects, it is difficult to achieve rapid and accurate detection of strip steel surface defects with existing methods. This article proposes a real-time and high-precision surface defect detection algorithm for strip steel based on YOLOv7. Firstly, Partial Conv is used to replace the conventional convolution blocks of the backbone network to reduce the size of the network model and improve the speed of detection; Secondly, The CA attention mechanism module is added to the ELAN module to enhance the ability of the network to extract detect features and improve the effectiveness of detect detection in complex environments; Finally, The SPD convolution module is introduced at the output end to improve the detection performance of small targets with surface defects on steel. The experimental results on the NEU-DET dataset indicate that the mean average accuracy (mAP@IoU = 0.5) is 80.4%, which is 4.0% higher than the baseline network. The number of parameters is reduced by 8.9%, and the computational load is reduced by 21.9% (GFLOPs). The detection speed reaches 90.9 FPS, which can well meet the requirements of real-time detection.
A Multi-Faceted Digital Health Solution for Monitoring and Managing Diabetic Foot Ulcer Risk: A Case Series
Authors: Matijevich Emily , Minty Evan , Bray Emily , Bachus Courtney , Hajizadeh Maryam , Liden Brock
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are a devastating complication of diabetes. There are numerous challenges with preventing diabetic foot complications and barriers to achieving the care processes suggested in established foot care guidelines. Multi-faceted digital health solutions, which combine multimodal sensing, patient-facing biofeedback, and remote patient monitoring (RPM), show promise in improving our ability to understand, prevent, and manage DFUs. Methods: Patients with a history of diabetic plantar foot ulcers were enrolled in a prospective cohort study and equipped with custom sensory insoles to track plantar pressure, plantar temperature, step count, and adherence data. Sensory insole data enabled patient-facing biofeedback to cue active plantar offloading in response to sustained high plantar pressures, and RPM assessments in response to data trends of concern in plantar pressure, plantar temperature, or sensory insole adherence. Three non-consecutive case participants that ultimately presented with pre-ulcerative lesions (a callus and/or erythematous area on the plantar surface of the foot) during the study were selected for this case series. Results: Across three illustrative patients, continuous plantar pressure monitoring demonstrated promise for empowering both the patient and provider with information for data-driven management of pressure offloading treatments. Conclusion: Multi-faceted digital health solutions can naturally enable and reinforce the integrative foot care guidelines. Multi-modal sensing across multiple physiologic domains supports the monitoring of foot health at various stages along the DFU pathogenesis pathway. Furthermore, digital health solutions equipped with remote patient monitoring unlock new opportunities for personalizing treatments, providing periodic self-care reinforcement, and encouraging patient engagement—key tools for improving patient adherence to their diabetic foot care plan.
Optimizing Image Enhancement: Feature Engineering for Improved Classification in AI-Assisted Artificial Retinas
Authors: Mehmood Asif , Ko Jungbeom , Kim Hyunchul , Kim Jungsuk
Published: April 2024

Artificial retinas have revolutionized the lives of many blind people by enabling their ability to perceive vision via an implanted chip. Despite significant advancements, there are some limitations that cannot be ignored. Presenting all objects captured in a scene makes their identification difficult. Addressing this limitation is necessary because the artificial retina can utilize a very limited number of pixels to represent vision information. This problem in a multi-object scenario can be mitigated by enhancing images such that only the major objects are considered to be shown in vision. Although simple techniques like edge detection are used, they fall short in representing identifiable objects in complex scenarios, suggesting the idea of integrating primary object edges. To support this idea, the proposed classification model aims at identifying the primary objects based on a suggested set of selective features. The proposed classification model can then be equipped into the artificial retina system for filtering multiple primary objects to enhance vision. The suitability of handling multi-objects enables the system to cope with real-world complex scenarios. The proposed classification model is based on a multi-label deep neural network, specifically designed to leverage from the selective feature set. Initially, the enhanced images proposed in this research are compared with the ones that utilize an edge detection technique for single, dual, and multi-object images. These enhancements are also verified through an intensity profile analysis. Subsequently, the proposed classification model’s performance is evaluated to show the significance of utilizing the suggested features. This includes evaluating the model’s ability to correctly classify the top five, four, three, two, and one object(s), with respective accuracies of up to 84.8%, 85.2%, 86.8%, 91.8%, and 96.4%. Several comparisons such as training/validation loss and accuracies, precision, recall, specificity, and area under a curve indicate reliable results. Based on the overall evaluation of this study, it is concluded that using the suggested set of selective features not only improves the classification model’s performance, but aligns with the specific problem to address the challenge of correctly identifying objects in multi-object scenarios. Therefore, the proposed classification model designed on the basis of selective features is considered to be a very useful tool in supporting the idea of optimizing image enhancement.
Intelligent Tire Prototype in Longitudinal Slip Operating Conditions
Authors: Bastiaan Jennifer , Chawan Abhishek , Eum Wookjin , Alipour Khalil , Rouhollahi Foroogh , Behroozi Mohammad , Baqersad Javad
Published: April 2024

With the recent advances in autonomous vehicles, there is an increasing need for sensors that can help monitor tire–road conditions and the forces that are applied to the tire. The footprint area of a tire that makes direct contact with the road surface, known as the contact patch, is a key parameter for determining a vehicle’s effectiveness in accelerating, braking, and steering at various velocities. Road unevenness from features such as potholes and cracks results in large fluctuations in the contact patch surface area. Such conditions can eventually require the driver to perform driving maneuvers unorthodox to normal traffic patterns, such as excessive pedal depressions or large steering inputs, which can escalate to hazards such as the loss of control or impact. The integration of sensors into the inner liner of a tire has proven to be a promising method for extracting real-time tire-to-road contact patch interface data. In this research, a tire model is developed using Abaqus/CAE and analyzed using Abaqus/Explicit to study the nonlinear behavior of a rolling tire. Strain variations are investigated at the contact patch in three major longitudinal slip driving scenarios, including acceleration, braking, and free-rolling. Multiple vertical loading conditions on the tire are applied and studied. An intelligent tire prototype called KU-iTire is developed and tested to validate the strain results obtained from the simulations. Similar operating and loading conditions are applied to the physical prototype and the simulation model such that valid comparisons can be made. The experimental investigation focuses on the effectiveness of providing usable and reliable tire-to-road contact patch strain variation data under several longitudinal slip operating conditions. In this research, a correlation between FEA and experimental testing was observed between strain shape for free-rolling, acceleration, and braking conditions. A relationship between peak longitudinal strain and vertical load in free-rolling driving conditions was also observed and a correlation was observed between FEA and physical testing.
Evaluation of Segmentation, Rotation, and Geographic Delivery Approaches for Deployment of Multiple First-Line Treatment (MFT) to Respond to Antimalarial Drug Resistance in Africa: A Qualitative Study in Seven Sub-Sahara Countries
Authors: Audibert Celine , Aspinall Adam , Tchouatieu Andre-Marie , Hugo Pierre
Published: April 2024

Background: Several studies recently confirmed the emergence of resistance to antimalarial drugs in sub-Saharan Africa. Multiple first-line treatment (MFT) is one of the measures envisaged to respond to the emergence and spread of this resistance. The aim of this study was to identify the perceived advantages and disadvantages of several MFT deployment strategies and to better understand potential implementation drivers and barriers. Methods: A qualitative survey was conducted in seven sub-Saharan countries amongst key opinion leaders, national decision makers, and end users. A total of 200 individual interviews were conducted and findings were analyzed following a thematic inductive approach. Results: From a policy perspective, the new MFT intervention would require endorsement at the global, national, and regional levels to ensure its inclusion in guidelines. Funding of the MFT intervention could be a bottleneck due to costs associated with additional training of healthcare workers, adaptation of drug delivery mechanisms, and higher costs of drugs. Concerning the MFT deployment strategies, a slight preference for the segmentation strategy was expressed over the rotation and geographic approaches, due to the perception that a segmentation approach is already in place at country level. Conclusions: The findings highlighted the need for a collective approach to MFT deployment through the engagement of stakeholders at all levels of malaria management.
Wide Real-Life Data Support Reduced Sensitivity of Antigen Tests for Omicron SARS-CoV-2 Infections
Authors: Piubelli Chiara , Treggiari Davide , Lavezzari Denise , Deiana Michela , Dishnica Klevia , Tosato Emma Maria Sole , Mazzi Cristina , Cattaneo Paolo , Mori Antonio , Pomari Elena , Nicolini Lavinia , Leonardi Martina , Perandin Francesca , Formenti Fabio , Giorgetti Alejandro , Conti Antonio , Capobianchi Maria Rosaria , Gobbi Federico Giovanni , Castilletti Concetta
Published: April 2024

With the continuous spread of new SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs), the monitoring of diagnostic test performances is mandatory. We evaluated the changes in antigen diagnostic tests’ (ADTs) accuracy along the Delta to Omicron VOCs transition, exploring the N protein mutations possibly affecting ADT sensitivity and assessing the best sampling site for the diagnosis of Omicron infections. In total, 5175 subjects were enrolled from 1 October 2021 to 15 July 2022. The inclusion criteria were SARS-CoV-2 ADT combined with a same-day RT-PCR swab test. For the sampling site analysis, 61 patients were prospectively recruited during the Omicron period for nasal and oral swab analyses by RT-PCR. Next-Generation Sequencing data were obtained to evaluate the different sublineages. Using RT-PCR as a reference, 387 subjects resulted in becoming infected and the overall sensitivity of the ADT decreased from 63% in the Delta period to 33% in the Omicron period. This decrease was highly statistically significant (p < 0.001), and no decrease in viral load was detected at the RNA level. The nasal site presented a significantly higher viral load than the oral site during the Omicron wave. The reduced detection rate of Omicron infections by ADT should be considered in the global testing strategy to preserve accurate diagnoses across the changing SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Expanding the Scope of Adenoviral Vectors by Utilizing Novel Tools for Recombination and Vector Rescue
Authors: Fischer Julian , Fedotova Ariana , Bühler Clara , Darriba Laura , Schreiner Sabrina , Ruzsics Zsolt
Published: April 2024

Recombinant adenoviruses are widely used in clinical and laboratory applications. Despite the wide variety of available sero- and genotypes, only a fraction is utilized in vivo. As adenoviruses are a large group of viruses, displaying many different tropisms, immune epitopes, and replication characteristics, the merits of translating these natural benefits into vector applications are apparent. This translation, however, proves difficult, since while research has investigated the application of these viruses, there are no universally applicable rules in vector design for non-classical adenovirus types. In this paper, we describe a generalized workflow that allows vectorization, rescue, and cloning of all adenoviral species to enable the rapid development of new vector variants. We show this using human and simian adenoviruses, further modifying a selection of them to investigate their gene transfer potential and build potential vector candidates for future applications.
Single Ferritin Nanocages Expressing SARS-CoV-2 Spike Variants to Receptor and Antibodies
Authors: Padariya Monikaben , Kalathiya Umesh
Published: April 2024

SARS-CoV-2 virus variants of concern (VOCs) have rapidly changed their transmissibility and pathogenicity primarily through mutations in the structural proteins. Herein, we present molecular details with dynamics of the ferritin nanocages stitched with synthetic chimeras displaying the Spike receptor binding domains (RBDs). Our findings demonstrated the potential usage of ferritin-based vaccines that may effectively inhibit viral entry by blocking the Spike–ACE2 network and may induce cross-protective antibody responses. Taking the nanocage constructs into consideration, we evaluated the effects of variants on the docked interface of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike RBD with the ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) host cell receptor and neutralizing antibodies (Abs). Investigating the VOCs revealed that most of the mutations reported a possibly reduced structural stability within the Spike RBD domain. Point mutations have moderate or no effect for VVH-72, CR3022, and S309 Abs when bound with the Spike RBD, whereas a significant effect was observed for B38, CB6, and m396 over the surface of the H-ferritin nanocage. In addition to providing useful therapeutic approaches against COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), these structural details can also be used to fight future coronavirus outbreaks.
Development of a Candidate TMV Epitope Display Vaccine against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Phiri Kelvin , Grill Larry
Published: April 2024

Essential in halting the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2, it is crucial to have stable, effective, and easy-to-manufacture vaccines. We developed a potential vaccine using a tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) epitope display model presenting peptides derived from the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The TMV-epitope fusions in laboratory tests demonstrated binding to the SARS-CoV-2 polyclonal antibodies. The fusion constructs maintained critical epitopes of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, and two in particular spanned regions of the receptor-binding domain that have mutated in the more recent SARS-CoV-2 variants. This would allow for the rapid modification of vaccines in response to changes in circulating variants. The TMV-peptide fusion constructs also remained stable for over 28 days when stored at temperatures between −20 and 37 °C, an ideal property when targeting developing countries. Immunogenicity studies conducted on BALB/c mice elicited robust antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2. A strong IFNγ response was also observed in immunized mice. Three of the six TMV-peptide fusion constructs produced virus-neutralizing titers, as measured with a pseudovirus neutralization assay. These TMV-peptide fusion constructs can be combined to make a multivalent vaccine that could be adapted to meet changing virus variants. These findings demonstrate the development of a stable COVID-19 vaccine candidate by combining SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-derived peptides presented on the surface of a TMV nanoparticle.
Prospective and Cross-Sectional Factors Predicting Caregiver Motivation to Vaccinate Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder against COVID-19: A Follow-Up Study
Authors: Liu Tai-Ling , Hsiao Ray C. , Chou Wen-Jiun , Yen Cheng-Fang
Published: April 2024

Adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have higher risks of contracting COVID-19 and worse outcomes compared with adolescents without ADHD. The most effective method of preventing infection is vaccination. This follow-up study explored the prospective and cross-sectional factors influencing caregiver willingness to vaccinate children with ADHD against COVID-19. Baseline data on caregiver demographics, affiliate stigma, parenting stress, emotional difficulties, beliefs regarding the causes of ADHD, and ADHD symptoms were collected prior to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Taiwan. At follow-up, the study assessed caregiver willingness to vaccinate children with ADHD, the challenges caregivers faced in parenting during the pandemic, and ADHD symptoms. The results revealed that caregiver age at baseline was positively associated with a willingness to vaccinate children against COVID-19 at follow-up. By contrast, the belief that ADHD resulted from failures in parental discipline at baseline was negatively associated with caregiver willingness to vaccinate. Parenting challenges were also negatively associated with caregiver willingness to vaccinate. Therefore, the age of caregivers, beliefs about the causes of ADHD, and parenting challenges during the pandemic should be considered when developing interventions to enhance caregiver willingness to vaccinate children with ADHD.
Visiones de futuro de los gobiernos progresistas de America Latina
Authors: Güemes Cecilia
Published: April 2024

La idea de progreso, como la de utopía, sirvió durante más de un siglo como eje de movilización política y social de proyectos de cambio, y de representación de una realidad alternativa. Su expulsión del debate ha dejado huérfanos y desorientados a quienes aspiran a promover transformaciones colectivas. Frente a ello, y más allá de las denuncias, hace falta un relato que transforme la indignación en fuerza social, que genere afectos colectivos de esperanza, que tenga un programa y un impulso capaz de dinamizar el cambio, imaginando una realidad mejor. Construir esperanzas supone hacerse cargo tanto del presente como del futuro, deconstruir, pero también proyectar. Este trabajo se pregunta por las visiones de futuro de cuatro gobiernos autodefinidos progresistas en América Latina: Brasil, Chile, Colombia y la Argentina previa a Milei. A partir de los discursos de investidura de los presidentes Lula da Silva, Gabriel Boric, Gustavo Petro y Alberto Fernández, desentrañamos los pilares sobre los que edifican sus proyectos, los modos nuevos de hacer políticas que proponen, si son defensivos o expansivos, y desde dónde y con quiénes se piensan.
Yanyalı Süleyman Efendi’nin Şerh-i Divan-ı Urfî Adlı Eserinin Çeviri Stratejileri Açısından İncelenmesi
Authors: Başçetin Mustafa Yasin
Published: April 2024

Osmanlı döneminde, özellikle Farsça ve Arapça eserlerin tercüme ve şerhleri, çeşitli şarihler ve mütercimler tarafından gerçekleştirilmiştir. Bu zengin geleneğin içerisinde farklı yaklaşımlar ve yöntemler kendini göstermiştir. Şarihler ve mütercimler, eserleri üzerine yazdıkları şerhlerde belirli tercüme yöntemlerini kullanarak kendi teorilerini oluşturmuşlardır. Bu uygulamaların belirlenmesi ve yapılan çevirilerin niteliklerinin ortaya konması, Osmanlı çeviri geleneğini anlamak açısından son derece önemlidir. Çalışmada, Urfî-i Şirâzî’nin kasidelerine Yanyalı Süleyman Efendi tarafından kaleme alınan “Şerh-i Divan-ı Urfî” adlı şerh eserinden alınan örnekler üzerinden çeviri stratejileri incelenmiştir. Çalışmada, Osmanlı dönemindeki çeviri yöntemleri ve stratejileri hakkında genel bir bilgi sunulmasının ardından; telafi (kültürel ikame), yabancılaştırma, öykünme, yerlileştirme (uyarlama), kültürel ödünçleme (ödünç alma), iletişimsel çeviri, somutlama, özelleştirme (alt anlamlı çeviri), genelleştirme (üst anlamlı çeviri), açımlama (açıklamalı çeviri) ekleme (genişletme), çıkarma (daraltma), çıkarım (öneri terim), yer değiştirme, dönüştürüm, standartlaştırma, perspektif kaydırma (değiştirme), birebir çeviri (sözcüğü sözcüğüne), tarihselleştirme, metin manipülasyonu gibi genel çeviri stratejilerinin Şerh-i Divan-ı Urfî’de ne şekilde kullanıldığı tespit edilmiştir. Bu çerçevede, Osmanlı döneminde kaleme alınan çeviri ve şerh içeren eserlerden bir örnek üzerinden çeviri stratejileri tespit edilerek Osmanlı çeviri geleneğinin özellikleri anlaşılmaya çalışılmıştır. Bu analiz, Osmanlı döneminde çeviri ve şerh geleneğinin öne çıkan stratejilerini ortaya koymayı amaçlamış ve bu geleneğin teorik anlamda anlaşılmasına katkı sağlamıştır.
"Kelleci Memet" Romanında Dilin İdeolojik Fonksiyonu: Roman Söylemine Yansıyan Marksist İdeoloji
Authors: Yüknü Doğukan
Published: April 2024

Her ideolojik düşünce yapısının kendine özgü bir söylem tarzı bulunmaktadır. Söylem, dilin bireysel veya toplumsal kullanımına işaret etmektedir. Bir dil pratiği olarak söylem, salt göstergelerden oluşmaz aynı zamanda sosyal bir pratiktir. Söylem nosyonu, sosyal bilimlerin de inceleme alanına girdikten sonra birçok kavramla ilişkisi üzerinden incelenmeye başlanmıştır. Bu kavramlardan birisi de ideolojidir. Söylemler, ideolojileri yapılandırabildiği gibi ideolojiler de söylemleri dil boyutunda yapılandırabilmektedir. Dolayısıyla her türlü söylem yapısı, birtakım ideolojik algı biçimleri tarafından şekillendirilmiş dil kullanımları barındırabilir. Çoğu ideolojide olduğu gibi Marksizm’in de kendi has bir söylem yapısı vardır. Marksizm, kuramsal temelleri Karl Marx ve Friedrich Engels tarafından oluşturulan bir düşünce sistemi veya ideolojidir. Temelde ekonomik teori üzerine inşa edilen bu ideoloji, tarihsel süreci “Tarihsel Materyalizm” ve “Diyalektik Materyalizm” ilkeleriyle açıklamaktadır. Marksizm’in temelinde sınıf mücadeleleri yatmaktadır.
Edebi metinler de açık veya gizli bir şekilde ideolojik söylemleri içerisinde barındırabilmektedir. Özellikle dil kullanımı boyutunda edebi metinler, yazarın ideolojik görüşü ekseninde şekillenebilmektedir. Bilhassa roman, yapısı ve içeriği itibariyle ideolojik söylem tarzlarını yansıtabilmesi açısından çok uygun bir edebi türdür. Romanlarda bu genellikle örtük bir şekilde dil boyutunda sözcük seçimleri çerçevesinde gerçekleşmektedir. İdeolojik söylem yapılarını özellikle metin düzeyinde yorumlamak için söylem analizi, dilsel göstergelere yoğunlaşmayı gerektirmektedir. Bu çalışmada da Kemal Tahir’in Kelleci Memet romanı, Marksist ideoloji açısından dilsel göstergeler ve metin dışı bağlamlar çerçevesinde yorumlanacaktır. Kemal Tahir, bu romanda diyalogların yoğun olduğu bir anlatım tarzını tercih etmiş, anlatıcı olarak ideolojik söylemini romana yansıtmamıştır. Bu yüzden yazarın ideolojik dil tercihi, daha çok isimler, tasvirler, adıllar ve sıfatlarda yaptığı dilsel tercihler ayrıca da karakter söyleminde yansıttığı ideolojik söylem ekseninde incelenecektir.
Sessiz Ev'in Çok Sesliliğinde Groteskin Sesini Duymak
Authors: Uşaklı Sandal Burcu
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT
Having placed postmodern techniques at the basis of his works, Orhan Pamuk frequently benefited from these techniques in his second novel, Silent House, published in 1983. In this sense, the concept of polyphony, in which the narration is made through various sources rather than a single source, stands out in the novel. Polyphony enables the text to have a multi-layered quality; the narrator constantly changes within the text, thus the novel takes on a varied structure, as in Mikhail Bahtin’s concept of carnival. Moreover, this carnivalesque structure is supported by the descriptions of the summer house, which forms the main place of the text, and the events experienced by the three generations who came together in this house. On the other hand, in order to diversify the carnival, Pamuk also included the grotesque body, which is an integral part of it. The grotesque body, pushed out of society and condemned to live with the misfortune of its deformity, stands right next to the sublime, turning the text inquestion into a carnival venue. Based on this, this study will examine the position of the grotesque body in Silent House and its function within the text.
Yaşamdan Kurguya: Mebrure Alevok’un Hikâyelerinde Otobiyografik Anlatım
Authors: Özbek Giray Özgül
Published: April 2024

Cumhuriyet Devri kadın yazarları arasında yer alan Mebrure Alevok, telif ve tercüme pek çok hikâye, roman, tiyatro eseri, makale ve seyahat yazıları kaleme almış ancak daha çok romanları ve Batı edebiyatından yapmış olduğu tercümelerle ön plana çıkmış bir isimdir. Henüz çocuk denecek yaşta çalışma hayatına atılan, öğretmenlik, tezgâhtarlık, tercümanlık ve yazarlık gibi meslekleri icra ederek hayat mücadelesinden galip çıkan Alevok, hikâyelerin merkezine kendisini yerleştirerek, hayal kırıklıklarını, aldanışlarını ve varolma çabasını anlatır. Hikâyelerini kendi hayatı ve çevresindeki kişilerin onun hayatındaki rolü üzerine kurması onun hikâyelerini büyük ölçüde otobiyografik kılar. Bu çalışmada yazarın hayatıyla ilgili kısa bir giriş yapıldıktan sonra, otobiyografik anlatı hakkında bilgi verilecek, daha sonra da yazarın bir kitapta toplanmayan, farklı gazete ve dergilerde kalmış olan Cadı, Deli, Küçük Kanburun Sırrı, Çıldıran Kadın, Bir Edibenin En Güzel Aşkı, Gözyaşından Kahkahaya, Karımı Ben Öldürdüm, Güneşe Âşık Yarasa, Kaderin Yalanı, Sevginin Yakutu, Lale Perisi, Bir Mektup, Murat Köprüsü, Saadet, Şüphe, Düğümlenen Hülya ve Eşyaların Dili Olsaydı adlı hikâyelerinde hayatına dair ayrıntıların nasıl yansıdığı üzerinde durulacaktır. Sonuçta da yazarın hikâyelerinde kendi hayatından kesitleri, anlatıcı vasıtasıyla aktardığı belirtilerek eserlerinde otobiyografik anlatıma yer verdiği ifade edilecektir.
Generating Spatiotemporal Seamless Data of Clear-Sky Land Surface Temperature Using Synthetic Aperture Radar, Digital Elevation Mode, and Machine Learning over Vegetation Areas
Authors: Li Jingbo , Yang Hao , Chen Weinan , Li Changchun , Yang Guijun
Published: April 2024

The continuous retrieval of clear-sky land surface temperature (LST) holds paramount importance in monitoring vegetation temperature and assessing water stress conditions. Nonetheless, the extensive cloud cover results in a widespread lack of LST data, posing challenges in accurately forecasting LST in regions characterized by diverse vegetation types and complex terrains. Therefore, this paper proposes a synthetic aperture radar (SAR)- and digital elevation model (DEM)-integrated LST reconstruction model (SDX-LST) to generate realistic and high-spatial-resolution (30 m) clear-sky LST data. To assess the practicality and robustness of the SDX-LST model, this paper selects the study areas of Loess Plateau (LP), Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Northeast China Plain, Nanling Mountains, and North China Plain in China, Desert Rock, Nevada in America, spanning a wide range of longitude and latitude and having obvious differences in topography, landforms, and vegetation. The analysis of the reconstruction results in different spatial location distributions, vegetation cover types, and multidate and time distributions throughout the year indicate that the SDX-LST model achieves excellent performance and high stability (with a mean absolute error lower than 2K). The SDX-LST predictions demonstrate a commendable level of consistency with the ERA5-hourly product and in situ data. We conclude that the integration of SAR and DEM within the SDX-LST model enables precise predictions of LST for various vegetation types and intricate terrains. The study quantitatively analyzes the effects of SAR and DEM on LST and introduces novel insights for exploring SAR-based reconstruction of LST.
Integrating Single-Cell and Spatial Transcriptomics to Uncover and Elucidate GP73-Mediated Pro-Angiogenic Regulatory Networks in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ye Jiazhou , Gao Xing , Huang Xi , Huang Shilin , Zeng Dandan , Luo Wenfeng , Zeng Can , Lu Cheng , Lu Lu , Huang Hongyang , Mo Kaixiang , Huang Julu , Li Shizhou , Tang Minchao , Wu Tianzhun , Mai Rongyun , Luo Min , Xie Mingzhi , Wang Shan , Li Yongqiang , Lin Yan , Liang Rong
Published: April 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was characterized as being hypervascular. In the present study, we generated a single-cell spatial transcriptomic landscape of the vasculogenic etiology of HCC and illustrated overexpressed Golgi phosphoprotein 73 (GP73) HCC cells exerting cellular communication with vascular endothelial cells with high pro-angiogenesis potential via multiple receptor–ligand interactions in the process of tumor vascular development. Specifically, we uncovered an interactive GP73-mediated regulatory network coordinated with c-Myc, lactate, Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) pathway, and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) signals in HCC cells and elucidated its pro-angiogenic roles in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that GP73, the pivotal hub gene, was activated by histone lactylation and c-Myc, which stimulated the phosphorylation of downstream STAT3 by directly binding STAT3 and simultaneously enhancing glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78)-induced ERS. STAT3 potentiates GP73-mediated pro-angiogenic functions. Clinically, serum GP73 levels were positively correlated with HCC response to anti-angiogenic regimens and were essential for a prognostic nomogram showing good predictive performance for determining 6-month and 1-year survival in patients with HCC treated with anti-angiogenic therapy. Taken together, the aforementioned data characterized the pro-angiogenic roles and mechanisms of a GP73-mediated network and proved that GP73 is a crucial tumor angiogenesis niche gene with favorable anti-angiogenic potential in the treatment of HCC.
pH-Responsive Theranostic Colloidosome Drug Carriers Enable Real-Time Imaging of Targeted Thrombolytic Process with Near-Infrared-II for Deep Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Ye Yaxin , Chen Zhechang , Zhang Shengzhang , Slezak Paul , Lu Fei , Xie Ruiqi , Lee Dongwon , Lan Guangqian , Hu Enling
Published: April 2024

Thrombosis can cause life-threatening disorders. Unfortunately, current therapeutic methods for thrombosis using injecting thrombolytic medicines systemically resulted in unexpected bleeding complications. Moreover, the absence of practical imaging tools for thrombi raised dangers of undertreatment and overtreatment. This study develops a theranostic drug carrier, Pkr(IR-Ca/Pda-uPA)-cRGD, that enables real-time monitoring of the targeted thrombolytic process of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Pkr(IR-Ca/Pda-uPA)-cRGD, which is prepared from a Pickering-emulsion-like system, encapsulates both near-infrared-II (NIR-II) contrast agent (IR-1048 dye, loading capacity: 28%) and urokinase plasminogen activators (uPAs, encapsulation efficiency: 89%), pioneering the loading of multiple drugs with contrasting hydrophilicity into one single-drug carrier. Upon intravenous injection, Pkr(IR-Ca/Pda-uPA)-cRGD considerably targets to thrombi selectively (targeting rate: 91%) and disintegrates in response to acidic thrombi to release IR-1048 dye and uPA for imaging and thrombolysis, respectively. Investigations indicate that Pkr(IR-Ca/Pda-uPA)-cRGD enabled real-time visualization of targeted thrombolysis using NIR-II imaging in DVT models, in which thrombi were eliminated (120 min after drug injection) without bleeding complications. This may be the first study using convenient NIR-II imaging for real-time visualization of targeted thrombolysis. It represents the precision medicine that enables rapid response to acquire instantaneous medical images and make necessary real-time adjustments to diagnostic and therapeutic protocols during treatment.
A BRIEF CRIMINOLOGICAL PROFILE OF CONVICTS SERVING FOR CORRUPTION CRIMES AND OFFICIAL MALFEASANCE
Authors:   Yugra State University, Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia, Хохрин С. А.
Published: April 2024

The article analyzes empirical material obtained from various penal institutions of the territorial agencies of the Federal Penitentiary Service of the Russian Federation, where the criminological profile of convicts sentenced for official malfeasance and corruption crimes is studied. Specific features of the criminal and legal characterization of the committed act are identified through the application of system and structural, and statistical research methods. The article considers indicators of correlation between the gravity of the crime, the term of the sentence, and types of complicity. Furthermore, the attention is paid to the existence or absence of an additional penalty imposed. The grounds for exemption from punishment for this type of convicts are examined. Convicted men and women are considered as separate groups, and comparison with the total number of convicted persons is conducted. As a conclusion, there is a need to study these characteristics in greater depth.
Different manifestations of accretion onto compact objects
Authors:   , Altamirano Diego
Published: April 2024

In this thesis I discuss phenomena that occur in systems that are referred to as low-mass X-ray binaries. These systems emit radiation over a large range of wavelengths but here I focus only on the X-ray emission. In this chapter, I briefly explain what these systems are. I introduce some of the main phenomena that arise in them and I discuss the methods by which these systems are studied.
FORCE ANALYSIS OF A ROTARY TILLER WITH A VERTICAL ROTATION AXIS
Authors: TARVERDYAN Arshaluys , ALTUNYAN Artur , GRIGORYAN Аlbert
Published: April 2024

The article considers the issue of updating the machines designed for the cultivation of near-trunk and near-vine spaces. From the prospect of complete satisfaction of the agrotechnological and technical requirements of the mentioned machines, the rotary tillers with vertical rotation axis are preferable, which, however, need to get structurally developed. On this account, it is recommended to select planetary mechanism with external gear as a driving mechanism, which enables to ensure high rotation numbers of the tiller in case of relatively low rotation numbers of the rotor. The kinematic analysis of the driving mechanisms has been conducted, analytical expressions have been derived, which enable to determine the trajectory, speeds and accelerations of the tiller’s blades depending on the frequency of rotor’s rotation and the gear ratio of the mechanism. Based on the analytical expressions resulted from the kinematic research of the mechanism force analysis of the rotary tiller has been conducted. The estimated expressions of the general resistance moment value applied to the shaft of the moving rotor of the machine, as well as the value of resistance moments generated on the planet gear (satellite) rotors have been derived, which enable to identify the optimal kinematic and geometric parameters for the mechanism and rotary through the theoretical calculation method ensuring the optimal values of traction resistance force and other force factors in conditions of the stated working rules.
Building High-Quality Rural Teacher Pool: An Example of Teacher Internship in Zhaoqing University in Western Guangdong
Authors: Chang Chih-Fan
Published: April 2024

Students majoring in education at Zhaoqing University have contributed as teachers to elementary to high schools in western Guangdong, China. We surveyed students majoring in Chinese language and literature education at Zhaoqing University to collect their internship experiences and perspectives on work, teaching, life, and skill development. The data was analyzed to identify the reasons that prevented young teachers from staying in rural schools. We combined relevant theories and policies with the analysis result to provide recommendations for higher education institutions, internship schools, and the government on the internship program to retain more young teachers in rural areas. These recommendations help to build high-quality rural teacher pools, revitalize rural communities through the improved quality of education, and contribute to Chinese modernization.
A Study of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Afghanistan
Authors:   Department of Hydrometeorology, Faculty of Geosciences, Kabul University, Kabul, Afghanistan., Faqiri Nasrin , Faqiri Ahmad Fawad ,   Department of Geology, Faculty of Geosciences, Kabul University, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Published: April 2024

Afghanistan stands as one of the leading contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, yet it remains one of the most susceptible nations to the adverse impacts of climate change. This vulnerability is underscored by recurrent episodes of droughts, floods, and landslides, exacerbated by the nation's exposure to natural disasters. However, the crux of this vulnerability lies not solely in exposure but also in the heightened sensitivity of the Afghan populace to these calamities. In light of Afghanistan's poverty and relatively underdeveloped status, any immediate expectation of curtailing greenhouse gas emissions appears unrealistic and unjust. The nation faces a paradoxical challenge balancing burgeoning emissions, inevitable amid developmental strides, with safe-guarding the interests of the impoverished populace. The heart of this challenge lies in ensuring that the trajectory of rising emissions aligns with uplifting the socioeconomic status of the vulnerable. This research delves into the complex interplay between Afghanistan's greenhouse gas emissions, its developmental trajectory, and the vulnerability of its population to climate change. By scrutinizing these facets, it aims to unearth pathways that reconcile developmental needs with environmental consciousness, with a paramount focus on securing the most marginalized against the dire consequences of climate change.
Exploring the Future of Stock Market Prediction through Machine Learning: An Extensive Review and Outlook
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Eklavya University, Damoh (M.P), India., Jain Sourabh , Saluja Dr. Navdeep Kaur ,   Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Eklavya University, Damoh (M.P), India., Pimplapure Dr. Anil ,   Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Eklvya University, Damoh (M.P), India., Sahu Dr. Rani ,   Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, IES Group of Institutions Bhopal (M.P), India.
Published: April 2024

A thorough analysis of trends and future directions reveals how machine learning is revolutionizing stock market forecasting. The most recent research on machine learning applications for stock market prediction during the previous 20 years is methodically reviewed in this article. Artificial neural networks, support vector machines, genetic algorithms in conjunction with other methodologies, and hybrid or alternative AI approaches were the categories used to group journal articles. Every category was examined to identify trends, distinct perspectives, constraints, and areas that needed more research. The results provide insightful analysis and suggestions for further study in this developing topic.
Profitability and financial structure of tour operators: an initial international comparison
Authors: Migliaccio Guido , Calvanese Maria
Published: April 2024

The pandemic had a devastating effect on tourism, even though it subsided during the summer months. The sector is economically important in many countries. Purpose: The research analyses the economic and financial dynamics of tour operators over the last decade in three European countries where tourism is widespread: Italy, France, and Spain. Research Methods: The financial statements of a sample of 4,044 tour operators (1043 Italian, 2340 French, 661 Spanish) for the ten years 2012-2021 were analysed, illustrating the average trend of Return on Equity (Roe) and Financial Leverage. The data were subjected to statistical processing. Anova and, where necessary, Tukey-Kramer methods were used for the comparison between countries. Results: Roe followed a similar trend in the three nations that were most affected by the pandemic. The financial situation was more erratic but equally similar. Implications: This study implements the modest economic literature on these companies. Quantitative research shows significant gains only in some periods and in some countries. Public policies should be attentive to the tourism-enhancing sector by building packages.
Finanțarea antreprenorială în Republica Moldova: opinia antreprenorilor
Authors: Ianioglo Alina
Published: April 2024

Access to financial resources is perceived as a crucial component of entrepreneurship. Due to insufficient equity capital, enterprises have the need to access external sources. Therefore, it is important to determine the accessibility and difficulties experienced by entrepreneurs in accessing sources of finance. The article aims at analysing the contribution of financing component to the development of entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Republic of Moldova. For this purpose, following research methods were used: analysis of statistical data and questionnaire-based survey of entrepreneurs, conducted in 2022. Indicators characterized both the ease of access to different financial sources, and the level of requirements regarding the guarantees requested by financial institutions when accessing a loan. The data shows that entrepreneurs evaluated the highest access to loans from non-bank and bank financial institutions. Nevertheless, the analysis of the questionnaire data reveals negative evaluations of the indicators regarding the level of requirements on guarantees. Thus, high requirements on guarantees for loans cause difficulties in accessing financing for local enterprises. Despite the measures taken, a number of entrepreneurs noticed difficulties in accessing financing within state programs. The biggest difficulties enterprises face in accessing venture capital. The emergence of new financing sources has substantially increased the financing options available to businesses. At the same time, access to electronic platforms for attracting financing (crowdfunding, cryptocurrencies, etc.) are not sufficiently developed in the entrepreneurial ecosystem of the Republic of Moldova and require a special attention.
Analysis of the competitiveness of the European Union in the current global geopolitical and geoeconomic context
Authors: Iacob Corneliu-George
Published: April 2024

In the analysis of the contemporary international environment, geoeconomics and geopolitics have a key role in understanding the trends recorded at the level of the world economy in terms of the dynamics of power centers and current reconfigurations, as well as in understanding the behavior of relevant actors in the geopolitical field. In a multipolar world, the European Union represents a pole of power that, through its actions, can significantly influence the balance of power. The various scenarios of the evolution of the world economy under the influence of a number of risk factors influence, to varying degrees, the competitiveness of the European Union. Competitiveness and productivity have been at the heart of European Union policy for decades. Faced with successive recent crises, the European Union has adopted common and coordinated response measures. The launch on June 20, 2023 of the European Strategy for Economic Security represents a concrete form of response of the European Union to the current instability present in global supply chains and, at the same time, represents a strategic repositioning for the future. The paper aims to analyze the developments in terms of the competitiveness of the European Union and, at the same time, to understand how the European Union’s approach to economic security will shape future relations in terms of geopolitics and geoeconomics at the international and regional level. The research methodology uses the logical analysis method, the systemic method, the comparative method, the historical method, and the situation analysis used in geopolitical theory.