bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speech genre of wishes in youth Internet discourse: Innovations and linguistic creativity
Authors:   Saratov State University, Malashenkova Elena N.
Published: June 2024

This paper analyses the use of the wishing genre among Russian young people. One of the features of youth speech is a shift from stereotypes, searching for new creative ways of expressing various intentions, such as evaluation, compliment, congratulation and wishing. The purpose of the study is to analyze the texts of wishes from the point of manifesting the linguistic creativity of the addressers; to identify the means and ways of destroying stereotypes. The research material is youth wishes, predominantly students’ wishes (more than 700 text fragments). The analysis of the content of the wishing texts enabled the author to classify all wishes into stereotypical, individual and combined. Empirical material shows that in the communication of friends most wishes refer to individual ones (64%), whereas combined and stereotypical wishes make up 25% and 11%, respectively. The analysis of the texts of wishes identified the ways and means of demonstrating the linguistic creativity of the addressee. These ways and means include the tactics of compliment, appeal, advice, switching the addressee to a humorous tone and some other tactics that are not discussed in this paper. All of them allow to make wishes less stereotypical. The material showed that addressers in wishes aim to supplement the universal components of the wishes with individualized elements, including in the text the utilitarian details of the addressee’s life. Most often, wishes contain references to the addressee’s profession or hobbies. Linguistic creativity of the addressers is manifested at all linguistic levels. First of all, addressees actively use tropes, such as epithets, metaphors, and comparisons. Addressers look for unusual objects for comparison in the linguistic repertoires; they often use hyperbolization. At the level of word-formation, we observe the use of affixes with an augmentative meaning, diminutives (predominantly in wishes to female addressees); speech innovations and occasional word formation. In wishes of young people, a shift from stereotypes reflects in reduplicating letters and symbols, changing letter case, breaking words into syllables and placing a hyphen between syllables; using a wide range of emojis and stickers; playing with colorful highlighting. Precedent texts play an important role in moving away from stereotypes. The author concludes that all the considered methods and means of linguistic creativity that are regularly used by authors when creating wishes make it possible to enhance the expressiveness and impact degree of the texts. They function to avoid stereotypes, achieve a perlocutionary effect, and contribute to the self-presentation of the addresser.
“My canary died. Come to us for Christmas”: The dynamics of the genre canon of a message in a postcard in diachrony and in ontogenesis (based on postcards written by children from the corpus “I am writing to you”)
Authors:   National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE University, Saint Petersburg), Kolmogorova Anastasia V. , Kolmogorova Polina A. ,   National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE University, Saint Petersburg)
Published: June 2024

The article features the speech genre “a message in a postcard” in Russian communicative practice of two periods: the period before 1917 Revolution and the Soviet period. The research is based on a subcorpus of 253 postcards written by children from the collection of postcards digital corpus “I am writing to you”. By observing the mastery of the genre canon by non-adult native speakers, we consider both the specifics of the speech genre and the dynamics of its changes that occurred at the turning point of two periods. The analysis showed that the speech genre “a message in a postcard” is sensitive to a large number of factors of different nature: its material substrate; achievements of scientific and technological progress; changes in the worldview and value picture of the world that occur in the linguistic and cultural community; the influence of dominant practices of using the visual component in communication. The changes brought by 1917 Revolution led to serious differences in the genre canon of the pre-revolutionary and the Soviet periods, which were reflected in children’s genre experiences. If in prerevolutionary children’s messages in postcards we observe vivid signs of natural written speech and even oral speech – ease, weak spelling control, phonetic principle of spelling, dialogical structuring, in postcards of Soviet children we see the use of speech templates, frequency of the collective addressee, strong spelling control, isomorphic intention of the text and visual design. Interpreting these differences, we conclude that before 1917, a message in a postcard was considered a kind of everyday family and friendly communication, close to its oral form, whereas in Soviet times the genre acquired a pronounced rhetorical public character. The sub-genre structure of analyzed speech genre also differs: in the pre-revolutionary collection, we find a variety of subgenres genres (“message”, “news”, “for memory”, “story about an event”, “from a trip”, etc.), and in Soviet times the genre repertoire narrowed to congratulations. Thus, a postcard written by children shows the genesis of the genre canon better, since the process of mastering the system of existing genre forms by an immature native speaker vividly profiles the specifics of these forms.
Knowledge, Attitude and Perception of Hypertension among Residents of Akpor Community in Rivers State: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Oti Ifeanyi Kalu , Ayerite Annette  Benjamin , Apata Feminiyi , Omisore Olabayo Kehinde , Ibienebakabobo Promise Vivian , Yusuf Rabiu
Published: June 2024

Background: Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a serious condition of public health concern. It is the leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and premature death worldwide, and can increase the risk of heart, brain, kidney and other diseases.
Aim: This study aimed at determining the knowledge, attitude, and perception of hypertension among residents of Akpor kingdom, a semi-urban community in Rivers State.
Methods: The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study design in which 284 apparently healthy community-based adult male and female individuals were purposively selected in four semi-urban communities of Akpor kingdom in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. A structured questionnaire consisting of socio-demographic characteristics and research questions on knowledge, attitude and perception of hypertension was self-administered to the participants after obtaining their informed consents. All other ethical procedures were followed in line with the Declaration of Helsinki. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics was used to present the data in frequency tables.
Results: Majority of the respondents were males 154 (54.2%), married 195 (68.7%), and between the ages of 40 and 50 (41.5%). Majority 164 (57.8%) had good knowledge of hypertension while 18 (6.3%) had no knowledge of hypertension at all. The prevalence of hypertension was 62 (21.8%), while 102 (35.9%) were not aware whether or not they were hypertensive. Majority of the hypertensive respondents 48 (16.9%) knew their status through medical diagnosis in hospitals/clinics while 14 (4.9%) knew theirs through other means. Majority of the hypertensive respondents 34 (54.8%) had a positive attitude in seeking healthcare while 28 (45.2%) had a negative attitude. Regarding lifestyle modification, 16 (25.8%) had a negative attitude/perception of hypertension out of which 9 (14.5%) never engaged in any form of lifestyle modification, while 7 (11.3%) managed their condition through prayers and other religious practices.    
Conclusion:  A substantial percentage of most adult community dwellers still have poor  knowledge of hypertension and negative attitude towards seeking healthcare despite the seemingly increase in public health campaigns in our communities. There is need for all stakeholders to join hands and intensify campaigns that would educate the populace on facts about hypertension, its prevention and management
Advanced Analytical Techniques for Characterizing Petroleum-Derived Contaminants in the Environment
Authors: Rizvi Syed Masroor Hassan
Published: June 2024

The characterization of petroleum-derived contaminants in the environment is crucial for understanding their impact on ecosystems and human health. Traditional analytical techniques such as Gas Chromatography (GC), Mass Spectrometry (MS), and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) have been instrumental in identifying and quantifying these contaminants. However, the complexity and diversity of petroleum-derived compounds necessitate the development and application of advanced analytical techniques for more comprehensive analysis. This paper reviews the most cutting-edge methods currently employed in environmental analysis, including Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography (GC×GC), Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry (FT-ICR MS), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy, and Synchrotron Radiation-Based Techniques such as X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), as well as Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). Each technique's principles, capabilities, and applications are discussed, highlighting their roles in detecting and characterizing hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Case studies demonstrate the practical applications of these advanced techniques in real-world scenarios, such as oil spill analysis and the identification of complex contaminant mixtures. The paper also addresses the advantages and limitations of these advanced techniques, considering factors like sensitivity, selectivity, complexity, and cost. Finally, future directions and emerging technologies, including nanotechnology, biosensors, and machine learning, are explored for their potential to enhance environmental monitoring and remediation efforts. This comprehensive review underscores the importance of continued innovation in analytical methods to effectively address the challenges posed by petroleum-derived contaminants in the environment.
Structure of the Mechanism for Exercising Subjective Procedural Rights
Authors:   Associate Professor of the Department of Labor, Environmental Law and Civil Procedure of the Law Institute of the Altai State University, PhD (Law), Bolovnev Mikhail A.
Published: June 2024

The work examines the features of the mechanism for the implementation of subjective procedural rights, proposes the structure of such a mechanism, and draws attention to its individual elements. It is noted that the internal conviction of the court as a legal category can become more widespread in procedural legislation to achieve the effect described in the article.
On the Issue of Acknowledging Labor Relations with Citizens Registered as Self-Employed by Courts
Authors:   Associate Professor of the Department of Labor, Environmental Law and Civil Procedure of the Law Institute of the Altai State University, PhD (Law), Associate Professor, Kiseleva Elena V.
Published: June 2024

The work examines current issues that arise when concluding civil law contracts with self-employed people and retraining them into labor contracts. Today, self-employed people are potentially at risk and need additional legal protection. In order to reduce such litigation, proposals are made to improve domestic legislation, taking into account the positive experience of foreign countries.
Judicial Practice in Cases of Invalidating Family Law Agreements
Authors:   Senior Lecturer of the Department of Labor, Environmental Law and Civil Procedure of the Law Institute of the Altai State University, Titarenko Elena P.
Published: June 2024

The article presents an analysis of judicial practice in cases of declaring family law agreements invalid on grounds regulated by various regulatory legal acts. The article points out the need to take into account public interest in family law when considering and resolving cases of invalidation of an agreement.
Assessing Legal and Economic Dependence in Acknowledging Relationships as Employment by Courts
Authors:   Associate Professor of the Department of Labor, Environmental Law and Civil Procedure of the Law Institute of the Altai State University, PhD (Law), Associate Professor, Mikhaylenko Yulia A. , Prasolova Inna A. ,   Associate Professor of the Department of Labor, Environmental Law and Civil Procedure of the Law Institute of the Altai State University, PhD (Law), Associate Professor
Published: June 2024

The signs of labor relations, formulated by the Soviet science of labor law, have undergone a certain rethinking in modern conditions. This is due not only to economic and political transformations in Russia. European legal science and judicial practice are also characterized by a transformation of ideas about the criteria of labor relations: significant importance is beginning to be attached not so much to the legal, but to the economic dependence of the performer on the customer of the work. These features are enshrined in the International Labour Organization recommendation “Employment Relationship Recommendation” (2006), clarified by the International Labour Office (2014), and are also reflected in national legislation, including Russian. The article makes an attempt to analyze judicial practice taking into account these trends.
Rhetoric for Herennius (Lat. Rhetoricon ad Herennium)
Authors:   Professor of the Department of Civil Law of the Russian Customs Academy, LL.D., Associate Professor, Dekhanov Sergey A.
Published: June 2024

The article provides a brief summary of the rhetoric of Herennius. The rhetoric of Herennius, along with the works of Aristotle, Cicero, and Quintilian, is the pearl of ancient rhetoric and is the first judicial rhetoric that was used as a textbook in the Middle Ages. In the rhetoric of Herennius, an analysis of the types of speeches is given with exhaustive completeness (a demonstrative speech is devoted to the praise or censure of a famous person, a deliberative speech consists of discussing political issues and is aimed at choosing a particular decision, a judicial speech is based on a legal dispute); The skills of invention (inventio), composition (dispositio), style (elocutio), memorization (memoria) and performance (pronuntiactio and methods of their application) are analyzed in detail. It is concluded that creative achievements of this kind (like the rhetoric of Herennius) appear once or twice every millennium, but still they exist and it is they that motivate modern researchers in the field of judicial rhetoric to deeply comprehend their depths and move on.
A tourist facility with a ban on children playing: The principle of non-discrimination and the statement of the Bulgarian court
Authors: Yoncheva Tanya
Published: June 2024

Recently, both in Bulgaria and abroad, it is increasingly common to find accommodation, restaurants and entertainment facilities that advertise and offer a wide range of services. However, these are not intended for general consumers but only those who have reached maturity (excluding minors and the under-aged). According to press publications hotels and restaurants that pre-select their guests based on their age are mainly concentrated on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast and in the mountains or they specialize in spa and balneo procedures. It turns out that consumers find it easier to stay with a pet, albeit at an extra cost, than go on vacation with their teenage children. Such practices adopted by representatives of the tourism industry raise some questions of a moral, ethical and legal nature. The current article traces the development of a specific administrative and judicial proceeding initiated to establish the presence of discrimination against consumers in a tourist facility – a restaurant. An overview of the claims and arguments of the claimant is made as well as an analysis of the reasons and considerations given by the competent administrative and judicial authorities. The author’s opinion on the issue is expressed.
Socio-economic Factors Involved for the Risk in Cotton Cultivation in Odisha
Authors: Padhy Chitrasena , Reddy M. Devender , Raj Rabindra Kumar
Published: June 2024

Background: The cotton cultivation involves risks due to climatic variation, the most important being aberrant rainfall. Further, the farmers fetch poor returns to their produce due to quality maintenance of lint during harvesting and storage. The farmers face problem in marketing as the cotton trade is mostly done by local traders. Hence, the current study was carried to identify risks involved in cotton cultivation due to climatic variation, harvesting, storage and marketing of produce. Methods: A study was conducted by collecting information from 240 cotton growers of four blocks in Gajapati and Rayagada districts of Odisha. The opinion of cotton growing farmers on most important parameters of risk in cotton cultivation among climate, harvesting and post-harvest, marketing and socio economic was collected individually through a semi-structured schedule and analyzed. Result: The opinion of cotton growing farmers of South Odisha indicate that the initial heavy rainfall followed by insufficient pre-monsoon rain; the rat menace in storage; exploitation by the traders in marketing and lack of community organization for facilitation of cluster approach are the most important risk parameters that influence cotton cultivation.
Sunflower Yield Depending on the Application of Micronutrients
Authors: Alexander Tsykalov , Vladimir Kravchenko , Boris Sotnikov , Olga Dubrovina
Published: June 2024

Background: The article presents the results of field experiments on the use of micro fertilizers on sunflower. The object of the study was a hybrid of sunflower Fausto from the company “Strube DandS GMBH”. Field experiments were carried out with micro fertilizers of the German company “Lebozol”, the Russian “Polydon Agro” and the Lithuanian “Acoustic Biotechnologies (brand Humic Land”). Methods: Foliar application with micronutrients and their treatment of sunflower seeds and their combination were studied. As studies have shown, the variant with the use of micronutrients for seed dressing against the background of foliar application showed the greatest effectiveness. Foliar application without treating seeds with trace elements did not significantly increase the yield and oil yield. Also, the oil content of the seeds according to the variants in the years of research did not differ significantly. In general, the condition of sunflower plants during the years of research before harvesting was satisfactory. At the same time, it should be noted that in 2022 abnormal precipitation affected the quality of sunflower seeds. Result: The analysis of the obtained results indicates the need for further search for optimal ways of using micronutrients to increase the yield of sunflower and its quality. It should also be taken into account the fact that according to economic calculations, the costs of applying micro fertilizers during seed treatment will not exceed 10 rubles/ha and with àoliar application they will amount to 1300-2300 rubles/ha. accordingly.
Discriminación algorítmica e ilusoria neutralidad. Actuales desafíos ante el fortalecimiento de tradicionales desigualdades en materia de violencia contra la mujer
Authors: López de Zubiría Díaz Sandra
Published: June 2024

El empleo de herramientas de inteligencia artificial aplicadas a diversos ámbitos constituye una realidad patente, conforme su uso crece exponencialmente con carácter general en múltiples ámbitos de la vida. Al respecto, se presenta aquí un análisis sobre aquellas cuestiones más alarmantes en materia preventiva e intervencionista, con especial vinculación al ámbito de la violencia de género. Entre otras, las que derivan de encontrarnos ante un sistema significativamente opaco, pero sobre el que se confía cierta neutralidad que puede convertirse en un instrumento capaz de obstaculizar la igualdad, a través de la proliferación de tradicionales discriminaciones enmascaradas en ilusorias neutralidades promovidas por herramientas generadas a partir de una base sesgada y excluyente. Con ello, lejos de combatir este fenómeno delictivo, estaremos fomentando sus bases patriarcales desigualitarias a través de la creación de herramientas tecnológicas teóricamente neutrales pero discriminatorias en la práctica. Al respecto, sin ánimo de desarrollar una postura negacionista ante la evolución tecnológica en este texto, lo que se realiza aquí es un estudio sobre aquellos aspectos que deben atenderse para que dicho avance evite el crecimiento de discriminaciones y violencias simbólicas, base de la violencia contra las mujeres, enmascaradas en una suerte de inteligencia artificial, neutral, que realmente esconda marcados sesgos de género
Organic cage-based frameworks: from synthesis to applications
Authors: Cui Jing-Wang , Yang Jing-Hua , Sun Jian-Ke
Published: June 2024

The investigation of organic cage-based frameworks (OCFs) has attracted increasing attention over the past decade due to their versatile synthetic methods and broad property range resulting from the unique combination of porous organic cages (POCs) with diverse framework materials, including porous organic polymers (POPs), metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and supramolecular organic frameworks (SOFs). Nevertheless, a comprehensive summary of the research advancements in OCFs remains elusive in the literature. This review addresses this gap by providing a detailed overview of the development of OCF-based materials from both synthetic and applicative perspectives. The discussion begins with systematically exploring design principles and common strategies for elaborating OCFs, achieved by rational selection of bond-forming routes suitable for various POC monomers, including covalent bonds, coordination bonds, and supramolecular interactions. Subsequently, the review highlights the functional attributes derived from the distinctive structural features of OCFs, showcasing their task-specific applications in adsorption/separation, catalysis, membrane technology, and other fields. Lastly, the article summarizes the opportunities and challenges anticipated as the exploration of the OCF family continues to advance in material science.
First records of Herald Petrel Pterodroma heraldica on Phillip Island (Norfolk Island Group)
Authors:   BirdLife Australia, Suite 2–05, 60 Leicester Street, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia, Mowat Emily , Kyi Genevieve ,   Local Land Services, P.O. Box 4515, Westfield, Penrith NSW 2750, Australia, O’Dwyer Terry ,   34 Ashford Street, Shorncliffe QLD 4017, Australia, Wilmott Lachlan ,   NSW Department of Planning and Environment, 84 Crown Street, Wollongong NSW 2500, Australia, Carlile Nicolas ,   NSW Department of Planning and Environment, 12 Darcy Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia
Published: June 2024

The Herald Petrel Pterodroma heraldica is a medium-sized gadfly petrel that breeds primarily on islands across the tropical and subtropical South Pacific Ocean. Its only confirmed breeding site in the Australasian region is Raine Island off North Queensland, where it occurs in very small numbers. Here we report on the presence of a Herald Petrel ashore on Phillip Island (Norfolk Island Group) in June 2021, and subsequent sightings in May and June 2022. On most occasions that a Herald Petrel was observed on the ground, it was seen under a shrub, behaviour which is consistent with prospecting for a nest site in this surface-nesting species. These sightings make Phillip Island one of just four locations in Australian territory at which the Herald Petrel has been recorded ashore away from Raine Island. Our new records reinforce the importance of active island restoration and the value of long-term intensive monitoring efforts. Future observations will confirm whether the species attempts to establish on Phillip Island, a location free from introduced predators and with ample suitable habitat.
NLRP3 Inflammasome Inhibitors for Antiepileptogenic Drug Discovery and Development
Authors: Haque Inamul , Thapa Pritam , Burns Douglas M , Zhou Jianping , Sharma Mukut , Sharma Ram , Singh Vikas
Published: June 2024

Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent and serious brain disorders, affecting 70 million people worldwide. Antiseizure medications (ASMs) though relieve symptoms and prevent the occurrence of future seizures in epileptic patients have limited effect on epileptogenesis. Addressing the multifaceted nature of epileptogenesis and its association with Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome-mediated neuroinflammation requires a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms for development of targeted therapeutic strategies beyond conventional antiseizure treatments. Several types of NLRP3 inhibitors have been developed and their effect has been validated both in vitro and in vivo models of epileptogenesis. In this review, we discuss the advances in understanding the regulatory mechanisms of NLRP3 activation as well as progress made and challenges facing in the development of NLRP3 inhibitors for the treatment of epilepsy.
Evaluation of Deformable Convolution: An Investigation In Image And Video Classification
Authors: Burgos Madrigal Andrea , Romero Bautista Victor , Díaz Hernández Raquel , Altamirano Robles Leopoldo
Published: June 2024

Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) present drawbacks for modeling geometric transformations, such as scaling and rotation, caused by the convolution operation’s locality. Deformable convolution (DCON), a mechanism that substitutes standard convolution, increasing the receptive field to capture relevant features, is a promising approach to solve this drawback and improve the robustness of CNNs. However, the optimal way to replace the standard convolution with its deformable counterpart in a CNN model is unclear. In this study, we clarify this aseveration by conducting several experiments using deformable convolutions applied in the layers that conform a small four-layer CNN model. We also use deformable convolutions on the four-layers of several ResNet CNNs with depths 18, 34, 50, and 101. The models were tested in binary balanced classes with 2D data for image classification: Cats & Dogs, EyesPACS, Spyders & Chickens, and Shapes. After this testing, we evaluated DCON in 3D data for action recognition: UCF101 and Human2 (a dataset we compiled to control movement, clothing and background). The contribution of this research lies in a guideline to use DCON. It can be summarized as follows: if DCON is used on the first layers of the proposal of model (with simple features), the computational resources expressed as the quantity of Flops will tend to increase and produce bigger misclassification than the standard CNN. However, if the DCON is used at the end layers, the quantity of Flops used in the training and testing will decrease, and the classification accuracy will improve by up to 20% about the base model. Moreover, it gains robustness when using deformable convolutions because it can adapt to the region of interest. Also, the best kernel size of the DCON is three. It showed better results than size five. In the last case, the quantity of Flops increase quadratically, but their performance does not increase significantly. With these results, we propose a guideline to use the DCON and contribute to understanding the impact of DCON on the robustness of CNNs.
In Vitro Utilization of Prebiotics by Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Kodešová Tereza , Mašlejová Anna , Vlková Eva , Musilová Šárka , Horváthová Kristýna , Šubrtová Salmonová Hana
Published: June 2024

Listeria monocytogenes is an emerging pathogen responsible for serious foodborne disease, listeriosis. Commensal gut microbiota is the first line of defense against pathogen internalization. Gut microbiome can be modified by prebiotic substrates, which are among others frequently added to food products and dietary supplement. Prebiotics should selectively support the growth of beneficial microbes and thus improve host health. Nevertheless, little is known about their effect on growth of L. monocytogenes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth ability of four L. monocytogenes strains, representing the most common serotypes, on prebiotic oligosaccharides: beta(1,3)-D-glucan, inulin, fructooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, lactulose, raffinose, stachyose, 2´-fucosyllactose and mixture of human milk oligosaccharides as a sole carbon source. The results showed that only beta(1,3)-D-glucan was metabolized by L. monocytogenes. Therefore, the health-safety of beta(1,3)-D-glucan in respect to listeriosis development should be furthermore studied.
Bridging Human Expertise with Machine Learning and GIS for Mine Type Prediction and Classification
Authors: Saliba Adib , Claramunt Christophe , Zaki Chamseddine , Tout Kifah
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces an intelligent model that combines military expertise with the latest ad-vancements in machine learning (ML) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to support humanitarian demining decision-making processes. The model is based on direct input and val-idation from field decision-makers for their practical applicability and effectiveness. With a survey polling the inputs of demining experts, 95% of the responses came with an affirmation of the potential of the model to reduce threats and increase operational efficiency. It includes mili-tary-specific factors that factor in the proximity to strategic locations as well as environmental variables like vegetation cover and terrain resolution. With Gradient Boosting algorithms such as XGBoost and LightGBM, the accuracy rate is almost 97%. Such precision levels further enhance threat assessment, better allocation of resources, and around a 30% reduction in the cost and time of conducting demining operations, signifying a strong synergy of human expertise with algo-rithmic precision for maximal safety and effectiveness in demining
Circulating Extracellular Mitochondria in Cardiometabolic Disease: Harnessing the Potential for Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Treatment
Authors: Spanos Michail , Gokulnath Priyanka , Whittaker Olivia Rosina , Azzam Christopher , Chatterjee Emeli , Singh Aarush , Varrias Dimitrios , Kladas Michail , Li Guoping , Vulugundam Gururaja , Das Saumya
Published: June 2024

Mitochondria play a significant role in the functioning of the cell, acting both as an intracellular energy source and a signaling organelle. In the heart, mitochondria produce more than 95% of the ATP in addition to regulating the redox state, calcium homeostasis, apoptosis, and lipid synthesis. However, there is also evidence that mitochondria exist outside of cells where they have been observed to mediate cell-to-cell communication, repair, and participate in the immune response. Cardiometabolic disease (CMD) has a complex pathogenesis closely associated with mitochondrial dysregulation, inflammation, and metabolic abnormalities. Because of this metabolic interdependence between the myocardium and the intracellular mitochondria, circulating extracellular mitochondria (CEMI) are being identified as possible regulators of CMD. Outside of the cell, mitochondrial functions are determined by the mitochondrial form, either as whole functional structures (e.g., small extracellular mitochondria) or as mitochondrial components with or without membrane encapsulation. Here, we explore the different forms of CEMI, their role in CMD pathogenesis, their potential therapeutic utility in treating diseases, and their role as biomarkers.
Effect on Feeding Behaviour and Growing of Being a Dominant or Subordinate Growing Pig and its Relationship with the Faecal Microbiota
Authors: Ochoteco-Asensio Juan , Zigovski de Paula Gustavo , Batista Costa Leandro , Rio Raquel , Clavell Adria , Ramayo-Caldas Yuliaxis , Dalmau Antoni
Published: June 2024

Pigs are a social species and they stablish hierarchies for a better use of resources and to reduce conflicts. However, in pig production, the opportunities for growing can differ in dominant and subordinate animals. In the present study a system was tested to perform a Dominance versus Subordinate test in growing pigs to investigate how the hierarchy affects feeding behaviour, growth and gut microbiota assessed in faeces. 64 animals housed in eight different pens were used, with four castrated males and four females in each one, weighing 18kg at arrival and maintained during the whole growing period, until 140 kg. Three stool samplings were obtained from the animals directly from the anus to avoid contamination of the faeces on 58, 100 and 133 days after the start of the study to investigate the microbiota composition. The dominant animals had higher gains during the growing period that the subordinate. In addition, they were performing more visits to the feeder throughout the day. Differential abundance patterns were observed in five bacterial genera, Oliverpabstia, Peptococcus, and Faecalbacterium being more abundant in dominant animals and Holdemanella and Acetitomaculum being overrepresented in subordinate ones. This microbial biomarker accurately classified dominant versus subordinate groups of samples with an AUC of 0.92.
Predictors of the Attempt and Failure to Lose Weight among the South African Population
Authors: Manafe Mashudu
Published: June 2024

Background: The increase in the prevalence of obesity in South Africa is a problem and weight management play an important role in the treatment of the high prevalence. For this purpose, a quantitative study was carried out using a structured questionnaire to assess predictors of attempt and failure to lose weight. Methods: One thousand and fifty adults were enrolled in the study and 54% (n=562) were overweight and obese (BMI >/25kg/m2). Descriptive statistics were analysed. Inferential statistical tests (chi-square tests, logistic regression, and Pearson’s correlation coefficients) were used to determine the relationship between variables. Results: The results revealed that age, sex, marital status, educational level, employment status, income level, area of residence, ethnic groups, and self-perceived BMI (normal weight, overweight, and obese) were predictors of attempt and failure to lose weight. There was a positive correlation between self-perceived BMI and the attempt and failure to lose weight. Conclusion: Weight management is important in the realm of public health and can be regarded as an investment in the population, as it leads people toward weight control strategies grounded in empirical evidence. Additionally, the findings can inform public health policies and interventions to improve weight management strategies at the population level.
Quantifying the Shading Effects of a Small Scale Rooftop Installed Linear Fresnel Reflector in Cyprus
Authors: Montenon Alaric Christian , Papakokkinos Giorgos , Ilia Kostantinos
Published: June 2024

The Linear Fresnel Reflectors are a solar concentration technology that is versatile and can serve many industrial processes or thermal conditioning. Such collectors entail a certain footprint, generating shading on the surface where they are installed. This effect is rarely quantified but may play an indirect role on the surface below. When installed on a roof, the solar radiation heats the building less. In places where the annual heating demand is higher than the cooling demand, this constitutes an asset. However, this becomes a disadvantage when the cooling demand is higher annually than the heating demand. Essentially, the reduced solar radiation allows the growth of plants that would not grow without the shade provided by the collector. The present paper is a quantitative analysis of such shading based on the Linear Fresnel Reflector of the Cyprus Institute. The work was conducted using the Tonatiuh++ ray-tracing software to determine the annual radiation blocking. A total of four years of actual meteorological measurements were applied directly to the ray-tracing model.
BAFormer: A Novel Boundary-Aware Compensation UNet-like Transformer for High-Resolution Cropland Extraction
Authors: Li Zhiyong , Wang Youming , Tian Fa , Zhang Junbo , Chen Yijie , Li Kunhong
Published: June 2024

Utilizing deep learning for semantic segmentation of cropland from remote sensing imagery has become a crucial technique in land surveys. Cropland illustrates diverse morphologies and degrees of fragmentation on the Earth’s surface, underscoring the importance of accurately perceiving the complex boundaries of cropland which are crucial for effective segmentation. This paper introduces a UNet-like boundary-aware compensation model BAFormer. Cropland boundaries typically exhibit rapid transformations in pixel values and texture features, often appearing as high-frequency features in remote-sensing images. To enhance the recognition of these high-frequency features as represented by cropland boundaries, the proposed BAFormer integrates a Feature Adaptive Mixer (FAM) and develops a Deep Wide Large Kernel Multi-Layer Perceptron (DWLK-MLP) to enrich the global and local cropland boundaries features separately. Specifically, FAM adaptively mixes high-frequency and low-frequency features through the advantages of convolution and self-attention; DWLK-MLP expands the convolutional receptive field by deeply decomposing large kernel convolutions. The efficacy of BAFormer has been evaluated on the Vaihingen, Potsdam, and LoveDA public datasets, as well as the Mapcup dataset. It has demonstrated advanced performance, achieving mIoU scores of 84.5%, 87.3%, 53.5%, and 83.1% on these datasets respectively. Notably, BAFormer-T, the lightweight iteration of the model, surpasses other lightweight models on the Vaihingen dataset with scores of 91.3% F1 and 84.1% mIoU. The source code is available at https://github.com/WangYouM1999/BAFormer.
A Fractional Differential Operator Based on Quantum Calculus and Bi-Close-to-Convex Functions
Authors: Jia Zeya , Alb Lupas Alina , Jebreen Haifa Bin , Oros Georgia Irina , Bulboaca Teodor , Ahmad Qazi Zahoor
Published: June 2024

This study explores the properties and behavior of bi-close-to-convex functions, introducing new subclasses defined by their relationship with fractional differential operator and bi-univalent functions. Using the Faber polynomial technique, we derive upper bounds for the n^{th} coefficient of functions in these classes. We also investigate the erratic behavior of initial coefficients in bi-close-to-convex functions, as characterized by the (λ,q)-fractional differintegral operator. Furthermore, we address Fekete-Szegö problems and present notable findings from our investigation, contributing to the continued growth and refinement of geometric function theory, yielding new insights and practical uses.
The Effect of CSR on Environmental Performance in China's Manufacturing Industry: The Mediating Role of Environmental Strategy and Green Innovation
Authors: Khoshnaw Zana , Ali Khairi Ali Auso , Mousa Kawar Mohammed
Published: June 2024

Recently, environmental degradation has become an international issue due to the extensive economic activities around the globe. This aspect demands the policymakers' and new researchers’ emphasis. Hence, the present article examines the impact of corporate social responsibilities (CSR) to community and environment on the environmental performance (ENP) of the manufacturing industry in China. The article also investigates the mediating role of green innovation and environmental strategy among CSR to community, CSR to environment and ENP of manufacturing industry in China. The article gets the primary data from the selected employees of the manufacturing industry using questionnaires. The article also tests the data's validity and reliability, and association among variables using smart-PLS. The outcomes indicated that CSR to environment has a positive association with ENP. The outcomes also revealed that green innovation and environmental strategy significantly mediate among CSR to community, CSR to environment and ENP. The article guides the policymakers in making policies related to improve ENP using CSR to environment and green innovation.
Application of Audio-Magnetotelluric and Dual-Frequency Induced Polarization Joint Inversion in a Pb-Zn Deposit Exploration in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Fahad Shah , Liu Chunming , Chen Rujun , El Kaliouby Hesham , Ahmad Jawad , Ullah Farid , Ahmed Ijaz , Ahmad Osama , Rahim Osama Abdul , Shah Shahid Ali
Published: June 2024

Models of subsurface structures are important for successful deposit exploration but are challenged by the need to integrate data from different geophysical methods. In the present study, we evaluated a method of joint inversion in which audio-magnetotelluric (AMT) and dual frequency induced polarization (DFIP) data sets are inverted simultaneously to produce a consistent 2D resistivity model to show a clear image of subsurface structures. To achieve the objectives, we conducted AMT and DFIP surveys first on the same survey line within the Dongjun lead-zinc deposit in inner Mongolia by developing 31 AMT survey sites with an interstation separation of 40 m on a 1440 m survey track and operated in fifty-three frequencies in the range 1–10,400 Hz to record the resistivity distribution of subsurface to depths exceeding 800 m. The same survey setup up was applied to the DFIP method by utilizing the SQ-3C model with a pole-dipole array configuration and conducted measurements at frequencies of 4 Hz and 4/13 Hz. We first separately inverted AMT and DFIP measurements. The two-dimensional (2D) model obtained from AMT data revealed distinct low resistivity anomalies in the middle of the 2D inversion model. In contrast, the DFIP inversion model showed a high resistive body in the same region. In response to the discrepancies observed in the separate 2D inversion models, we implemented a joint inversion for both the AMT and DFIP datasets. The joint inversion resistivity model shows surficial conducting bodies and a high conductive body along the profile with relatively high Percent Frequency Effect (PEF) indicating high chargeability. The final joint inversion resistivity model clearly images the large silica alteration zone and the Pb-Zn mineralization. This study demonstrates the feasibility of a joint inversion methodology and highlights the value of integrating geophysical methods through joint inversion for enhanced characterization and exploration of lead-zinc ores.
Timing of Resection of Spinal Meningiomas and Its Influence on Quality of Life and Treatment
Authors: Schwake Michael , Said Wesam , Gallus Marco , Maragno Emanuele , Schipmann Stephanie , Spille Dorothee , Stummer Walter , Brokinkel Benjamin
Published: June 2024

Background Main treatment modality for spinal meningiomas (SM) is gross total resection (GTR). However, optimal timing of surgery, especially in cases with absent or mild neurological symptoms remains unclear. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of early-stage resection on neurological outcome, quality of life (QoL) and quality of care. The primary objective was a favorable neurological outcome (McCormick scale 1); Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from patients operated on SM between 2011 and 2021. Patients with mild neurological symptoms preoperatively (McCormick scale 1 and 2) were compared to those with more severe neurological symptoms (McCormick scale 3-5). Disabilities and QoL were assessed according to validated questionnaires (SF36, ODI, NDI). Results: Age, spinal cord edema, thoracic localization, and spinal canal occupancy ratio were associated with more severe neurological symptoms (all p<.05). Patients presented with mild symptoms were associated with favorable neurological outcome (OR: 14.778 (95%CI 3.918-55.746, p<.001), which is associated with shorter hospitalization, better QoL and less disabilities (p<.05). Quality of care was comparable in both cohorts; Conclusions: Early surgical intervention of SM, before the development of severe neurological deficits, should be considered as it is associated with a favorable neurological outcome and quality of life.
Considerations in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Post-Traumatic Neuropathic Pain: A Narrative Review
Authors: Park Hyun-Jeong , Ahn Jong-Mo , Ryu Ji-Won
Published: June 2024

This study aims to provide an updated overview of the systematic evaluation and management of Post-Traumatic trigeminal neuropathic pain (PTTN) resulting from dental procedures or trauma. PTTN arises following an injury to the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensory and motor functions in the maxillofacial region. The etiology encompasses various dental procedures and craniofacial trauma, leading to a spectrum of symptoms, from tingling to severe pain. Diagnostic challenges stem from the absence of standardized criteria and the overlap with focal neuralgia, necessitating comprehensive evaluation. Misdiagnosis can result in prolonged suffering and unnecessary procedures. Successful management hinges on prompt diagnosis and interdisciplinary collaboration, with early intervention crucial in mitigating chronicity. While nerve recovery post-trauma is challenging, preventive measures through accurate evaluation and treatment are paramount.  Management for PTTN includes non-invasive and surgical interventions. Non-invasive intervention includes systematic and local pharmacological management. This review enhances uniformity in PTTN evaluation and treatment approaches despite standardized study limitations.
Feasibility and Efficacy of Prenatal Ultrasonic Screening for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Authors: Bevilacqua Claudia , Boscarato Virginia , Pieroni Giovanni , Fraternali Eva , Lattanzi Giuliano , Aspriello Simone D. , Gigante Antonio P. , Cecchi Alessandro
Published: June 2024

Background: developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a condition characterized by abnormal hip development in infancy. Early diagnosis allows for effective treatment, while late presentation often necessitates complex surgical interventions. Current recommendations advise screening between the 6th and 8th week postnatal using ultrasound, typically employing the Graf method. However, there's no universal consensus on whether ultrasound screening significantly increases treatment compared to clinical examination-guided ultrasound. This study aims to explore the feasibility of prenatal ultrasound for early identification of DDH risk. Methods: This prospective observational study involved 100 pregnant women undergoing fetal hip ultrasound during the second and third trimesters. Using the modified Graf method, alpha and beta angles were calculated on the fetus. Postnatally, alpha and beta angles were compared with prenatal values. Results: Prenatal ultrasound at 24th week showed inconclusive results because of the difficulty in identification of Graf landmarks, while ultrasound at 34th week has proved to be a reliable and safe method for quantitative determination of alpha and beta angles. Significant correlations were found between prenatal and postnatal alpha and beta angles. Moreover, significant differences in prenatal alpha and beta values were observed in patients developing mature/immature hips postnatally. Conclusions: Prenatal diagnostics show promise for predicting infant hip development. Further research is warranted to validate correlation strength and clinical applicability.