Abstract: Shaking tables are critical facilities for simulating seismic effects via ground motion reproduction. However, single-table tests are often constrained by limited platform dimensions and load capacity. While multi-table synchronization overcomes these bottlenecks, traditional array control methods under rigid connections face challenges, including degraded precision from desynchronization and experimental interruptions due to output forces exceeding safety limits. To address high-precision synchronization requirements for rigid-connected dual-table arrays, this study proposes an impedance-based internal force coordination control strategy. This approach enhances synchronization accuracy and prevents failures from excessive coupling forces. Specifically, a global simulation model and a mechanical model of the dual-shaking table array under rigid connection were established. Through simulation and experimental validation, the impact of synchronization errors was evaluated and the strategy's efficacy verified. Results show the strategy significantly reduces force discrepancy between platforms. In simulation and experiments, average force discrepancy reductions reached 95.4% and 76.1%, respectively. Both displacement reproduction accuracy and synchronization precision improved. The method effectively circumvents experimental bottlenecks, such as output force saturation, inherently associated with rigid connections.

Abstract:

Background: When branches lack a defined collar, arborists are left without a clear target to guide removal pruning. A common recommendation is to cut at a 45° angle from the branch bark ridge. Cutting perpendicular to the branch axis as an alternative would minimize effective wound size, potentially reducing wood dysfunction in the remaining stem. Methods: A total of 92 Acer rubrum L. ‘Florida Flame’ and 102 Quercus virginiana Mill. ‘Highrise’ branches without visible collars were pruned one of two ways: 1.) removal cut angle 45° from the branch bark ridge (45°) or 2.) removal cut angle perpendicular to the branch axis (perpendicular). Three years later, pruned areas were harvested and assessed for wound closure and internal discoloration and decay, controlling for initial branch diameter, branch-to-parent-stem aspect ratio, sprout growth, and branch height. Results: In live oak, branch size and cut method affected the amount and length of discoloration observed. In red maple, discoloration and decay were largely a function of branch size and aspect ratio (i.e., the relative size difference between the removed branch and parent stem). In both species, cambial dieback was more common with perpendicular removal cuts, often negating any initial benefit associated with the smaller wound. Conclusions: When removing branches without a branch collar, we recommend making 45° cuts. Identifying which branches to remove or retain early in a tree’s life is important to avoid large branch removal cuts later.

Abstract: (1) Background: Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) is a common cause of hip pain and functional limitation in young and physically active individuals. Although hip arthroscopy is an established treatment when conservative management fails, objective data on early postoperative changes in active hip range of motion (ROM) remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate changes in active hip ROM three months after arthroscopic treatment for FAIS using inertial measurement units (IMUs) and to investigate their relationship with patient-reported outcomes. (2) Methods: A prospective cohort of patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for FAIS was assessed preoperatively and at a three-month follow-up. Active hip ROM—including flexion, internal rotation, external rotation, and total rotation—was measured using IMU sensors, while subjective outcomes were evaluated using the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS). (3) Results: Significant improvements were observed across all HOOS subscales at follow-up. Active hip ROM increased significantly in internal rotation, external rotation, and total rotation of the operated hip, whereas changes in hip flexion were minimal and no meaningful changes were observed in the non-operated hip. (4) Conclusions: Hip arthroscopy for FAIS leads to early improvements in both patient-reported outcomes and active hip mobility, particularly in rotational movements, although the relationship between ROM and subjective outcomes appears weak.

Abstract: This study examines the multifaceted application of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) in two key, dynamically developing sectors: cryptocurrency market capitalisation forecasting and customer service optimisation. An analysis of the effectiveness of various regression models (Linear, Lasso, and Decision Tree Regression) in predicting the market capitalisation of 3 leading cryptocurrencies shows that a model's success is highly dependent on the specific characteristics of the asset. While linear models achieve exceptional accuracy (R2>0.99) for most major and liquid cryptocurrencies, nonlinear approaches like Decision Tree Regression prove superior for assets with more complex and nonlinear market dynamics, highlighting the need for a flexible approach to model selection. In parallel, the study analyses the implementation of AI in customer service, reviewing chat communication data with the AI assistant "Naomi" (January 26–February 8, 2025). The AI "Naomi" demonstrated high overall effectiveness in chat communication, resolving over 60% of inquiries. However, a significant number of unresolved chats due to customer inactivity or AI limitations indicate areas for further optimisation. In conclusion, the effective application of AI and machine learning requires a strategic approach tailored to the specific field. The key to success lies in careful model selection, prioritising technical reliability, and continuous adaptation and optimisation based on empirical data and a deep understanding of AI's limitations.

Abstract: This work constructs, analyzes and simulates a modified SIR epidemiological model for the spread of a generic long-time disease, in which the coefficients of infectivity and death rate are system variables. Diseases, such as COVID-19, have demonstrated very clearly that infectivity and death rates can change over time, even for the same variant of the virus, due to vaccination, improved treatments, better analysis, better medications, etc. This motivates us to model a generic disease where the infectivity and death rates are state variables as a part of the systems's evolving in time. The model consists of a coupled system of five differential equations. The analysis shows the existence, positivity and boundedness of the solutions. A short discussion of the Endemic (EE) and Disease-Free (DFE) equilibria and their stability is provided. Then, computer simulations depict two typical cases of dynamic behaviors, one when the DFE is stable and attracting, and one in which the EE is stable and attracting. These also show how the system approaches these steady states.

Abstract: Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) are a group of inherited lysosomal storage genetic disorders that affect the body's ability to break down glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) due to the deficiency of required enzymes. This leads to depositions of these GAGs in various tissues and organs resulting in multi-systemic manifestations including pulmonary and sleep related issues. In recent years, there have been significant advancements in therapeutic options and supportive management which has led to overall improvement in respiratory care culminating in improved quality of life for MPS patients. Management of pulmonary and sleep disorders in mucopolysaccharidosis requires a multidisciplinary approach due to the multi-systemic affectation of the genetic disorders. Therapeutic options such as enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have yielded varying success in mitigating respiratory complications. Emerging treatments such as gene therapies have shown exciting and promising results thus far. Supportive therapies such as airway clearance, regular vaccination and use of positive airway pressure devices are also essential. Pre-operative airway and anesthesia planning is critical to mitigate peri-operative and post-operative complications. Early diagnosis, close monitoring and a patient focused individualized approach are essential for respiratory optimization and overall improvement in clinical outcomes. This review article aims to discuss these advancements in a comprehensive format, making it accessible to medical providers who care for this subset of patients.

Abstract: Background Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) represents the most common malignancy worldwide. Although most tumours can be successfully treated with surgical excision, a subset may develop aggressive behaviour characterised by extensive local invasion, repeated recurrences and progression to locally advanced disease. However, the definition of locally advanced basal cell carcinoma (laBCC) remains heterogeneous and largely based on subjective clinical judgement. Objectives To propose a reproducible clinical scoring system aimed at objectively identifying locally advanced basal cell carcinoma and supporting therapeutic decision-making. Methods At the Unit of Plastic and reconstructive surgery and Skin Cancer Unit of IRCCS-Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata, Italy we recruited patients with histologically confirmed BCC between 2005 and 2024. A multidimensional clinical scoring system (Fabrizio Score, FS), integrating tumour-related, patient-related and healthcare accessibility parameters, was applied to the study population. Score attribution was independently performed by physicians from the hospital health management service to minimise operator bias. Results Among 3,125 basal cell carcinomas diagnosed during the study period, 1,851 cases were evaluated using the proposed scoring system. A total of 1,627 tumours had an FS < 14 and were treated surgically. Two hundred and eighteen cases (FS 14–16) received neoadjuvant therapy. Only 15 patients (0.8%) were ultimately classified as having truly locally advanced disease and treated with systemic therapy. Conclusions The Fabrizio Score may represent a practical and reproducible clinical tool for the objective identification of locally advanced basal cell carcinoma and may support multidisciplinary therapeutic decision-making. Prospective multicentre validation studies are warranted.

Abstract: Adhesives and sealants are critical components in modern packaging, governing bond integrity, barrier continuity, and mechanical reliability across rigid, semi-rigid, and flexible formats. Beyond simple bonding or closure, they enable multilayer architectures, high-speed converting, and functional integration across food, beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and technical applications. Despite the extensive literature on adhesive chemistries and sealing technologies, comprehensive analyses integrating adhesives and sealants within the architecture of packaging systems remain limited. This review takes a materials- and system-level approach, linking adhesive and sealant families — natural, synthetic, hot-melt, pressure-sensitive, and tie layers — to processing routes, functional performance, regulatory constraints, and circularity requirements. Sealant materials including polyolefins, barrier polymers, and biodegradable alternatives are also covered. Special attention is given to the functional distinction between bonding and sealing roles, and to hybrid systems operating at their intersection within multilayer packaging architectures. Structure–property–function relationships are analysed with respect to bond and seal strength, seal initiation temperature, hot-tack behaviour, resistance to thermal and mechanical stresses, and end-of-life compatibility. By offering a unified framework connecting materials selection, interfacial performance, regulatory compliance, and sustainability considerations, this Part I lays the classification and functional groundwork for Part II, which addresses advanced materials, quantitative performance data, and emerging technologies.

Abstract: Acute chest syndrome (ACS) is a frequent and potentially life-threatening complication of sickle cell disease (SCD), often developing during hospitalization for vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC). Early identification of pediatric patients at risk remains challenging, particularly in high-prevalence settings. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of children and adolescents (≤18 years) with confirmed SCD admitted for VOC to Cayenne Hospital Center, French Guiana, between January 2014 and September 2024. ACS occurring during hospitalization or within 7 days of admission was recorded. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors, and model performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Among 824 VOC episodes in 190 patients, 239 (29%) were complicated by ACS. Independent predictors of ACS were thoracic or abdominal pain at presentation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.88, 95% CI 1.45–5.72), prior history of ACS (aOR 2.20, 95% CI 1.28–2.90), and HbSS or Sβ⁰ genotype (aOR 1.91, 95% CI 1.30–2.60). Hydroxyurea use at admission was less frequent among patients who developed ACS. The predictive model showed good discrimination (AUC ~0.90), high specificity (96%), and positive predictive value (85%). These findings support targeted monitoring and early preventive strategies during pediatric VOC admissions.

Abstract: Nexus-NRS is an open and reproducible software framework for nuclear reaction calculations, implemented in a functional-programming style (Clojure), with a focus on workflows relevant to halo systems: stable radial solvers for weakly bound states, scattering observables, and transfer reactions. The package includes optical-model potentials, Riccati–Numerov integration with regular near-origin initialization options, discrete Wronskian diagnostics for numerical stability, and a Distorted Wave Born Approximation (DWBA) implementation for single-nucleon transfer in the post form. Recent development extends the reaction layer with multipole/angular ingredients in the spirit of Austern (complex radial integrals for zero-range cluster transitions, Coulomb-barrier phase factors on multipole blocks) and with a literature-aligned benchmark for 11Li(p,p′) inelastic scattering using published global optical parameters. Nexus-NRS supports both scripting/REPL-driven studies and an interactive web dashboard for parameter exploration and visualization; a public instance is deployed at https://www.nexus-nrs.uz, and the dashboard exposes representative benchmarks through JSON endpoints (including angular dσ/dΩ for the 11Li paper workflow). The project plans to support use from an LLM chatbot for guided workflows. This manuscript describes the numerical formulation and software architecture and outlines a validation workflow aimed at producing reproducible conference-scale results.

Abstract: This paper presents a metrological framework for calibration, verification, and periodic re-verification of a metrology-oriented bulk-optics stochastic optical AND gate with polarization encoding and ratio-based readout. In the considered architecture, the logical values are represented by orthogonal polarization states, and the module output is evaluated through the corrected H- and V-channel intensities. The proposed methodology treats the module as a functional measurement object whose acceptability is determined by output correctness under specified operating conditions. The framework includes an explicit optical power-budget model, detector-channel calibration for dark offsets and gains, and a basic module-level verification procedure. Two complementary acceptance criteria are introduced: a functional decision margin based on a forbidden threshold band and a signal sufficiency margin based on the corrected total signal. Their uncertainty-aware forms are used for conformity assessment. A model case study demonstrates initial calibration, nominal verification, and periodic re-verification under drift scenarios. The results show that correct ratio behavior alone is insufficient for metrological acceptance and must be supported by adequate signal level. The proposed approach provides a compact routine verification procedure, while extended diagnostics and boundary analysis are treated as support layers rather than mandatory steps of each verification cycle.

Abstract: Early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) traits in infants is crucial for early intervention, which can greatly improve the child’s quality of life. Solutions that use voice analysis offer a promising non-invasive way to detect ASD. However, most current studies depend on extracting specific voice markers from certain datasets and do not include validation across different groups. In this paper, we propose a supervised contrastive learning method for identifying ASD based on infant vocalizations. We extend the Time-Frequency Consistency (TF-C) framework from self-supervised learning to a contrastive approach that uses labels. Our method takes advantage of both time-related and frequency-related data through a dual-branch encoder. It applies supervised contrastive constraints during pre-training to reduce variation within classes while boosting separation between different classes in the embedding space. We pre-train the model using diagnostic labels on a dataset that includes typically developing (TD), Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and ASD infants from an open-access dataset, and then fine-tune it with a simple classification head. Evaluation on a cross-cohort group of participants shows the model generalizes well and can distinguish ASD from non-ASD infants, achieving up to 100.00 % accuracy on non-verbal vocalizations.

Abstract: We present a mathematically rigorous formulation of the Fundamental Speed Theory (FST), a vector-tensor theory of gravity featuring a dimensionless vector field νᵐ. The theory introduces characteristic scales M₀ = ħ/(cL₀) and L₀ = 10 kpc to ensure complete dimensional consistency, with explicit inclusion of ħ and c in all physical expressions. Galactic dynamics obeyd²ν̃/dξ² + (2/ξ) dν̃/dξ = β_eff ν̃³where ξ = r/L₀ and β_eff = (λν₀²)/(6c₁) = 2.0×10⁷.We perform a hierarchical validation at three distinct levels of parameter freedom: • Level 3 (Zero Free Parameters): Fixed M = 1.0×10¹⁰ M⊙ and r_d = 3.0 kpc for all 175 galaxies. Even with no galaxy-specific parameters, FST correctly describes 65.7% of galaxies with mean χ²_ν = 0.809. • Level 2 (Estimated Parameters): Mass and scale length estimated from scaling relations (no fitting). Success rate reaches 93.6% with mean χ²_ν = 0.347 for the 160 galaxies with χ²_ν < 3.0. • Level 1 (Fully Fitted): Mass and scale length fitted per galaxy. Success rate reaches 100% with mean χ²_ν = 0.170.This hierarchical validation demonstrates that FST captures the essential physics of galactic rotation without overfitting. The theory achieves a mean reduced chi-squared of ⟨χ²_ν⟩ = 0.170 across all 171 SPARC galaxies, with 91.2% of galaxies having χ²_ν < 0.5 (excellent fit) and only 1.8% (three galaxies) having χ²_ν > 1.0. The characteristic transition scale is ξ_c = √(2/β_eff) = 3.16×10⁻⁴, corresponding to a fundamental scale r_c = ξ_c L₀ ≈ 3.16 pc.Remarkably, we discover that all five field parameters (c₁, c₂, c₃, λ, ν₀) unify into a single fundamental acceleration scale:A₀ = (c₁ + c₃) ν₀² c² / L₀ = 2.42 × 10⁻¹⁰ m/s²This unified parameter reproduces the full 5-parameter theory identically for all 171 galaxies, demonstrating that FST is fundamentally a one-parameter theory.Cluster analysis reveals three distinct dynamical families of galaxies. Solar System constraints are satisfied through the galactic field gradient, with the local FST acceleration at Earth being ~8×10⁻¹⁵ of Newtonian acceleration—more than 100,000 times below current observational limits. Complete mathematical derivation and an open-source implementation ensure full reproducibility. Extension to cosmological scales is planned for future work.

Abstract: During phytosanitary monitoring of ornamental conifers conducted across multiple regions of Serbia, two species of spider mite, Eotetranychus libocedri (McGregor, 1936) and Eotetranychus thujae (McGregor, 1950), were recorded for the first time. E. libocedri was found on Platycladus orientalis L. (Franco), Thuja occidentalis L., and Cupressus × leylandii A.B. Jacks & Dallim, while E. thujae was detected on T. occidentalis. These records have extended the distribution area of these two allochthonous species in Europe. Together with previous findings, the number of registered species of the Tetranychidae family in Serbia now totals 47 species across 10 genera.

Abstract: 1)Background. Substance use disorders are frequently associated with difficulties in emotion regulation and the use of ineffective coping strategies. 2)Methods. A total of 201 participants undergoing specialized treatment for substance use disorders in Romania completed the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) and the Strategic Approach to Coping Scale (SACS). Statistical analyses included independent samples t-tests, Pearson correlations, path analysis, and linear regression. 3)Results. Participants with more severe substance use (history of hospitalization, detoxification treatment, and polysubstance use) exhibited significantly higher levels of emotion regulation difficulties. The Impulse dimension was a significant predictor of antisocial (β = .52) and aggressive coping strategies (β = .46). Assertive action and seeking social support were associated with lower DERS scores. Substance type differentially influenced DERS dimensions. The strongest correlation with the total DERS score was observed for seeking social support. 4)Conclusions. Emotion regulation and coping optimization are key targets in the treatment of substance use disorders, reflecting persistent difficulties in effectively managing emotions despite cognitive awareness. Social support may function as both an adaptive and maladaptive mechanism in this clinical context.

Abstract: Strategic knowledge disclosure is becoming more and more common and important in enterprise innovation management. Nowadays enterprises are in the global open innovation network with many strategic alliances and supply chain partners. The behavior and relationship factors of external important stakeholders are of great significance to strategic knowledge disclosure. Based on transaction cost economics theory and the circular model of strategic knowledge disclosure process, this study takes manufacturing listed enterprises from 2010 to 2019as the research object, and uses their published papers in scientific journals to represent strategic knowledge disclosure behavior. Finally, this study empirically examines the influence of supplier’s dependence on major customers (i.e. customer concentration) on supplier’s strategic knowledge disclosure. The customer concentration of suppliers has a significant negative impact on the implementation of strategic knowledge disclosure. High customer concentration will inhibit the total amount of strategic knowledge disclosure by suppliers. When the internal R&amp;D expenditure of suppliers is further taken into account in the model, high customer concentration has a more obvious inhibitory effect on the intensity of suppliers' strategic knowledge disclosure. In order to analyze the selection mechanism of strategic knowledge disclosure based on the perspective of external important stakeholders, and provide a feasible path for the strategic management innovation knowledge of enterprises under the specific relationship network.

Abstract: Special Relativity holds that the relativity of simultaneity is an inescapable physical consequence of the Lorentz Transformation (LT). This study shows that the phenomenon disappears when a position 4-vector from the stationary frame S is transformed into a fully covariant form in the moving system S', which means the transformed 4-vector is not expressed by coordinates of S. This step is mandatory if S and S' are to be physically equivalent. Standard LT matrix multiplication yields a 'mixed-coordinate' representation in which the stationary time t remains the evolution parameter. An additional functional step is required to replace t with expressions in terms of the local time t'. When this procedure is applied to any two simultaneous events in S, the resulting time interval in S' is zero (Δt'=0). This demonstrates that the textbook claim of relative simultaneity is tied to the intermediate mixed-coordinate stage and does not reflect a physical effect once full coordinate homogeneity is enforced in the moving frame. The resulting physical effects’ predictions remain fully consistent with all observable consequences of special relativity and are equivalent to those obtained in the Tangherlini framework. We argue that absolute-like simultaneity emerges naturally as a formal necessity for the consistent transformation of the position 4-vector into a fully covariant form.

Abstract: This paper presents Scheme T, a presidential framework. It originates from the author's quest for partisan continuity, whereby a mid-term presidential vacancy is filled by a successor from the same political party as the incumbent, unless a new popular election is held. While the American system fails to guarantee this due to rigid election timing, the Turkish framework offers synchronized terms and flexible scheduling; however, the current Turkish constitution suffers from “plebiscitary succession” and “violation of election synchronization”. Scheme T builds upon the Turkish framework by introducing a vice-presidential office with dual-path confirmation and mandating that double vacancy or any renewal initiative triggers a full general election, thereby eliminating standalone presidential elections. It also proposes PLAR (Popular Legislative Automatic Runoff), a novel single-round electoral method for simultaneous presidential and legislative elections that achieves fairness comparable to two-round absolute-majority systems with greater efficiency. In contrast to the current Turkish system, Scheme T removes the Assembly's direct renewal authority and introduces instead a Westminster-style no-confidence mechanism with a three-fifths threshold, restricted to the final two years of the five-year presidential term. This guarantees the president three years of secure tenure while adding confidence-based accountability. By integrating the strengths of Turkish, Westminster, and American paradigms, Scheme T combines strong executive stability with carefully calibrated democratic control, offering an elegant and innovative blueprint for building resilient and responsive presidential governments.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed the treatment landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), introducing a distinct spectrum of immune-related toxicities (irAEs). However, the real-world impact of irAEs and corticosteroid use on treatment outcomes remains uncertain. Methods: We conducted a multicenter, retrospective study including patients with advanced NSCLC treated with ICIs alone or in combination with chemotherapy between April 2017 and December 2023. Clinical records were reviewed to collect data on irAEs and corticosteroid administration. Efficacy and safety outcomes were compared according to irAE occurrence, grade, and corticosteroid use. Results: Among 452 patients, 151 (33.4%) experienced irAEs of any grade, and 37 (8.2%) developed grade ≥3 events. The most common irAEs were dermatologic (11.1%), endocrine disorders (9.1%), and arthritis (5.5%). Corticosteroids were administered for irAE management in 60 patients (13.3%). Patients who developed irAEs achieved significantly improved progression-free survival (median PFS: 23.2 vs. 4.2 months; HR = 0.29; p<0.001) and overall survival (median OS: 31.2 vs. 7.6 months; HR=0.35; p<0.001), including those with grade ≥3 events. The survival benefit associated with irAEs was not compromised by corticosteroid use for irAE management (median PFS 46.3 in irAE vs. 5.5 months in non-irAE/no use; HR=0.28; p<0.001). Temporary ICI discontinuation due to irAEs was associated with longer median PFS (39.1 vs. 5.6 months; HR=0.29; p<0.001), as was permanent ICI discontinuation due to irAEs (median not reached vs. 7.4 months; HR=0.20; p<0.001). Conclusions: The occurrence of irAEs—and their management with corticosteroids—was independently associated with enhanced ICI efficacy in metastatic NSCLC, including among patients who developed high-grade toxicities and those who discontinued treatment due to toxicity.

Abstract: Due to the increasing threat of antibiotic resistance and the emergence of new pathogenic strains, the development of effective combined therapeutic agents represents a crucial direction in the fight against infections. Within this study, several compounds were synthesized in which iodine is present in a coordination complex with antibiotics – sodium sulfathimidine and gentamicin sulfate. The physicochemical parameters of these compounds were investigated using capillary electrophoresis and UV-spectroscopy, along with their cytotoxicity, antimicrobial, and antiviral activities. As a result of this work, two stable compounds, KC-246 and KC-248, were synthesized, demonstrating virus-inhibitory activity against herpes simplex virus and influenza A under extremely low cytotoxicity levels of 0.018–0.106 mg/ml. Additionally, they exhibited antimicrobial activity against representatives of the families Staphylococcaceae, Pseudomonadaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcaceae, and yeast-like fungi. The minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) ranged from 0.794 µg/ml to 0.198 µg/ml (KC-246) and from 2.093 µg/ml to 0.523 µg/ml (KC-248).