Key Indicators Research Articles

(092) Racial/ethnic Differences in Semen Parameters and Male Reproductive Hormones in the United States: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Introduction Semen quality and reproductive hormones are key indicators of male fertility potential, but studies have reported inconsistent results on racial/ethnic differences in these factors in the United States. Objective To perform a meta-analysis evaluating pooled differences in semen analysis parameters and male reproductive hormones across racial/ethnic groups in the United States through a systematic literature search. Methods PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched up to December 17, 2022, with no language limitation. All studies on racial/ethnic variations in semen parameters and male reproductive hormones among the general population of the United States were included in this meta-analysis. Standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval (95%CI) between races/ethnicities were pooled using the random-effects model. Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS) was used for risk of bias assessment. Heterogeneity was assessed by the I2 index. Results Our search yielded 731 articles. After screening, 9 studies were included. These studies had a low risk of bias (NOS ≥ 7) and involved a total of 7,641 participants. The pooled analysis showed no significant differences between White and Black men in the percent of total motility (p-value=0.513; I2=99.76%), total testosterone (p-value=0.272; I2=99.79%), free testosterone (p-value=0.220; I2=99.78%), and estradiol (p-value=0.876; I2=96.90%). However, higher sperm concentration (SMD=3.64; 95%CI: 0.18, 7.09; p-value=0.039; I2=99.53%) and total sperm count (SMD=6.04; 95%CI: 0.09, 11.99; p-value=0.046, I2=99.68%) were estimated for White men compared to Black men. Additionally, higher sperm concentration (SMD=1.39; 95%CI: 0.56, 2.23; p-value=0.001, I2=92.06%) and total motility (SMD=3.06; 95%CI: 0.09, 6.02; p-value=0.043, I2=99.14%) were estimated for Hispanic men compared to non-Hispanic men, with no differences in total sperm count (p-value=0.579, I2=97.79%) or total testosterone (p-value=0.078, I2=95.95%) (Figure 1). Conclusions This meta-analysis demonstrated reductions in semen analysis parameters, especially sperm concentration, for Black and non-Hispanic men relative to White and Hispanic men in the United States. Disclosure No.

The Evaluation of Industry 5.0 Concepts: Social Network Analysis Approach

During 2022 and 2023, Industry 5.0 attracted a lot of attention. Many articles and papers regarding the basics of Industry 5.0, its pillars, and a comparison of Industry 5.0 and Industry 4.0, Society 5.0, and Operator 5.0 have been published. Although the concept of Industry 5.0 is relatively new, companies from developed countries that have a high level of implementation of Industry 4.0 have already started the transition to Industry 5.0. Even though Industry 5.0 enables developing countries to become a part of developed countries’ value chains, it is not known which path to Industry 5.0 developing countries are taking. To fill this gap, the authors proposed research questions regarding the key indicators for measuring the levels of implementation of Industry 5.0 approaches in the manufacturing sector of the Republic of Serbia. This research includes insights from 146 manufacturing companies, gathered in 2022 as a part of the European Manufacturing Survey. The main findings of this study show that the most important indicator when it comes to human-centricity is training and competence development of production employees with a task-specific focus; the implementation of measures for improving efficiency in material consumption is significant for achieving sustainability; and the use of standardized and detailed work instructions is crucial in order to become resilient.

Metallurgical industrial production development in Russia

The article presents an analysis aimed at assessing the most important performance indicators related to the production process development in the metallurgy sector of the domestic industry. The paper considers the imposed anti-Russian sanctions, as well as the period characterized by the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the country’s industrial production development with a special focus on the metallurgical industry. Through a detailed analysis, the author focuses on key indicators that effectively reflect the Russian metallurgy progression. The dynamics of metallurgical exports to various world markets has been examined. The data obtained and conclusions of the study provide a clear picture of the Russian metallurgy state in a complex geopolitical environment and healthcare crisis conditions.

A Hybrid Model for Fitness Influencer Competency Evaluation Framework

Fitness influencers are an emerging profession in recent years. At present, the main research on fitness influencers focuses on their personal traits, professional knowledge and skills, and course content, while there is still a large research gap on the social media marketing strategies of fitness influencers, how they interact with fans, and the reasons for their influence on fans. There is a lack of a comprehensive evaluation framework for fitness influencer research, and there is no clear research on what competencies are required to become a qualified fitness influencer. Therefore, it has become an important issue to establish a comprehensive fitness influencer competency evaluation. In this study, a hybrid model of fitness influencer competency evaluation framework was developed based on government competency standards and expert knowledge using the Multiple Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model perspective. This evaluation should expand to include the principles of sustainable development, emphasizing the influencers’ role in advocating for environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic viability within the fitness industry. First, the study developed 21 criteria in six dimensions of fitness influencer competencies through a literature survey and interviews with several experts. The 21 criteria resonate with many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). The Bayesian Best-Worst Method (Bayesian BWM) was used to generate the best group weights for fitness influencer competencies. Then, a modified Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution Based on Aspiration Level (modified TOPSIS-AL) was applied to evaluate the performance ranking of major fitness influencers in Taiwan by integrating the concept of the aspiration level. The results of the study revealed that behavioral standards were the most important dimension, emphasizing the need for fitness influencers to establish a comprehensive set of norms for their own behavioral standards. The top five criteria for fitness influencers’ competencies were self-review, punctuality and prudence, creativity, rapport and motivation, and the need to conform to one’s body image. The performance ranking was used to compare the evaluated subjects to the desired level to obtain a basis for improvement. This study effectively identifies key fitness industry competency indicators and refines business performance through the management implications proposed in this study to facilitate the development of the fitness industry.

Innovative Development of Russian Regions: Assessment and Dynamics in the Context of Sustainable Development

Innovative development of regions is a key factor that determines the level of competitiveness of the economies of all countries in the world. This article uses statistical tools to assess the level of innovative development of the regions of the Russian Federation. The purpose of the work is to assess the innovative development of the subjects of Russia for the period 2010–2020. Objectives of the study: (1) to study the main parameters of innovative development of the subjects of the Russian Federation; (2) to conduct a typology of Russian regions by the level of innovative development on the basis of cluster analysis. The selected time interval (2010–2020) was a period of increasing turbulent flows of development of socio-economic processes at the global, national and regional levels. Cluster analysis was used to identify spatial and functional features of innovative development of Russian regions. The obtained analytical calculations confirm a high degree of differentiation between the Russian regions by all key indicators of innovative development. The results of grouping regions on the basis of cluster analysis showed that there are four clusters based on the sum of normalized indicators, reflecting different levels of innovative development in Russian regions. The analysis revealed that most of the regions belong to the groups with moderate and low levels of innovative development. The regions of the Central and Volga Federal Districts have the highest level of innovative development, while the regions located in the north of the European part of Russia, the North Caucasus, the south of eastern Siberia and the Far East, as well as “new” regions, have a low level. The results of the study can be implemented by regional authorities for systematic monitoring of the level of innovative development of regions, making managerial decisions and developing mechanisms to ensure innovation activity in the regions.

Developing a conceptual model for improving the software system reliability

In the Industry 4.0 environment, the software systems development methodology is rapidly evolving, flexible technologies and new programming languages are being applied. The development of the software industry has made the issue of the quality of software systems an urgent problem. A number of quality models have been proposed for determining the quality of software systems so far, and these models specify the parameters and criteria for evaluating quality. Software reliability is one of the key indicators among the quality parameters of software systems, as it quantifies software crashes which can bring down even the most powerful system, ensuring that software systems run correctly and unexpected incidents do not occur. The increasing difficulty of the software system, the expansion of the scope of issues assigned on them, and as a result, the significant increase in the volume and complexity of the software system have made the problem of the reliability of the software system even more urgent. The essence of the issue is to reveal the main factors affecting the reliability of software systems, demonstrate existing problems in this area and develop mathematical models for assessing reliability. Mathematical models estimate the number of errors remaining in the software system before commissioning, predict the time of occurrence of the next crash and when the testing process will end. It is necessary to comprehensively approach the issue of ensuring reliability at all stages of the life cycle of the software system. This paper proposes a conceptual model to solve this problem.

Rig Automation Empowers Well Construction in Ecuador

_ This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 216249, “Digital Innovation of Well-Construction Process in Ecuador Through Rig Automation,” by Karen Peña, Kevin Etcheverry, and Hugo Quevedo, SPE, SLB, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed. _ Artificial intelligence (AI)-based digital drilling technology was implemented in two mature fields in Ecuador that represent 33% of the country’s oil production. The drilling campaign’s main strategy included the deployment of a novel automation solution on two rigs, resulting in the optimization of the well-construction process. In the complete paper, the authors present the results of implementation of a rig-automation solution applied to 20 wells in 2022. Scope of the Digital Solution The authors detail the validation, optimization, and implementation of a drilling software to automate work flows and the installation and commissioning of associated hardware components. The following key indicators and objectives were established: - Validation of drilling-software work flows - Achievement of a 75% average in automation control - Improvement of rate of penetration (ROP) by 5% - Reduction of pre- and post-connection times by at least 30% - Real-time tuning of parameters - Training of all personnel involved in the use of the drilling-software package - Installation and commission of hardware components Drilling-Software Implementation The digital solution is an advanced software system that brings automation capabilities to drilling rigs, analogous to the different levels of automation found in automobiles. By drawing a parallel to car automation, one can better understand the system’s functionality and benefits. Level 1 consists of task automation, comparable to automatic driving features such as cruise control. In this context, the drilling software takes on the role of automating specific tasks within the drilling process. Level 2 involves process automation, similar to a car’s ability to autonomously park itself. The digital solution automates selected processes in drilling operations that enable efficient and precise execution. Level 3 encompasses adaptive automation, akin to a self-driving car that dynamically adapts to its surroundings. The drilling software continuously analyzes the real-time conditions of the wellbore and suggests optimal drilling parameters based on proprietary algorithms that leverage the well-known DeTournay model principle. The drilling software actively controls four key rig machines: the drawworks, topdrive, automated driller, and mud pumps. The solution adjusts drilling parameters intelligently, optimizing the drilling process and improving overall efficiency and drilling stability.

Terminating an Employment Contract at the Employer’s Will: Does Expensive and Simple Mean Safe? Lithuanian Model

Abstract This paper aims to reveal the nature, specifics and limits of application of one of the legal grounds for termination of employment relationships established in the labour law of the Republic of Lithu ania – termination of the employment contract at the employer’s will. The analysis tests the hypothesis that the goal of increasing flexibility by simplifying the termination of employment relations, which was set at the initiation of the reform of the legal regulation, was not achieved. The presumption is put forward that this ground for terminating the employment contract is neither new nor safely applicable, and the benefits of relatively simplified procedural requirements do not outweigh increased financial burden. To reveal the impact of statutory amendments in question on the regulation of termination of employment relations in Lithuania, the historical background and the impact of obligations established in international documents on it are assessed, key indicators (such as legal grounds, procedural requirements, burden of proof and order of its distribution, etc.) are identified, and the relevant case law is examined.

Assessing literacy on the interconnection between non-communicable diseases and climate change among youth in Nairobi, Kenya: An interventional study

This study investigates the efficacy of mixed-method educational interventions in enhancing literacy levels among youth in Nairobi concerning the intricate relationship between climate change and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The education methods used in this study included a continuous trainer-of-the-trainer approach, and peer learning combined with digital health interventions including the NCDs 365 App and the NCDs for Public Health Online course. Utilizing a rigorous methodology, the study engaged 70 participants at baseline and 65 at endline, with a minimal attrition rate. The study focused on key indicators, including literacy levels, positive behavioral changes, and the integration of digital health technologies. Results indicate a commendable increase in literacy levels, with 95.4% of respondents accurately recognizing NCDs at the endline, compared to 81.4% at baseline. Positive shifts were evident in the understanding of examples and major risk factors of NCDs. Climate change awareness notably improved, with 76.9% defining it as a long-term shift in weather patterns at the endline, compared to 44.3% at baseline. The association between climate change and NCDs was acknowledged by 86.2% at endline, up from 57.1% at baseline. Attitudinal and behavioral changes were prominent, as 95.4% expressed intent to participate in NCDs and climate change activities at the endline, compared to 81.4% at baseline. Digital health technologies demonstrated substantial engagement, with 87.7% downloading the NCD365 app. Further, 93.8% enrolled in the online course, and 75.4% frequently used the NCD365 app. Encouragingly, 94.7% would recommend the app to friends. The study concludes that educational interventions significantly enhance knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to climate change and NCDs among youth in Nairobi. Recommendations include expanding similar initiatives, incorporating interactive elements, and continuous monitoring for long-term impact assessment. This research contributes pivotal insights to addressing 21st-century challenges through targeted education and technological integration.

The European Union summary report on antimicrobial resistance in zoonotic and indicator bacteria from humans, animals and food in 2021-2022.

This report by the European Food Safety Authority and the European Centre for Disease prevention and Control, provides an overview of the main findings of the 2021-2022 harmonised Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) monitoring in Salmonella spp., Campylobacter jejuni and C. coli from humans and food-producing animals (broilers, laying hens and fattening turkeys, fattening pigs and cattle under one year of age) and relevant meat thereof. For animals and meat thereof, AMR data on indicator commensal Escherichia coli, presumptive extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL)-/AmpC beta-lactamases (AmpC)-/carbapenemase (CP)-producing E. coli, and the occurrence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are also analysed. Generally, resistance levels differed greatly between reporting countries and antimicrobials. Resistance to commonly used antimicrobials was frequently found in Salmonella and Campylobacter isolates from humans and animals. In humans, increasing trends in resistance to one of two critically antimicrobials (CIA) for treatment was observed in poultry-associated Salmonella serovars and Campylobacter, in at least half of the reporting countries. Combined resistance to CIA was however observed at low levels except in some Salmonella serovars and in C. coli from humans and animals in some countries. While CP-producing Salmonella isolates were not detected in animals in 2021-2022, nor in 2021 for human cases, in 2022 five human cases of CP-producing Salmonella were reported (four harbouring bla OXA-48 or bla OXA-48-like genes). The reporting of a number of CP-producing E. coli isolates (harbouring bla OXA-48, bla OXA-181, bla NDM-5 and bla VIM-1 genes) in fattening pigs, cattle under 1 year of age, poultry and meat thereof by a limited number of MSs (5) in 2021 and 2022, requires a thorough follow-up. The temporal trend analyses in both key outcome indicators (rate of complete susceptibility and prevalence of ESBL-/AmpC-producers in E. coli) showed an encouraging progress in reducing AMR in food-producing animals in several EU MSs over the last 7 years.

PRECISION-TBI: a study protocol for a vanguard prospective cohort study to enhance understanding and management of moderate to severe traumatic brain injury in Australia

IntroductionTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is a heterogeneous condition in terms of pathophysiology and clinical course. Outcomes from moderate to severe TBI (msTBI) remain poor despite concerted research efforts. The heterogeneity...

Life safety in the Reliability-Based design and assessment of structures

We review the developments in life safety and the incorporation thereof in the design and assessment of structures over the last 50 years. Various measures of life safety are presented that have been developed according to the marginal life saving cost principle based on individual, societal and economic considerations. Target probabilities of failure, or target reliabilities, are central to modern structural design and assessment. These are derived either through back-calibration to existing practice or through life cycle cost minimisation, both of which yield comparable safety levels, and are underpinned by lower bounds from life safety. Life cycle cost minimisation is reviewed here, which considers all direct and indirect costs of failure including loss of life and limb, as well as the costs and efficiency of increasing reliability. We discuss the incorporation of life safety into reliability-based design and assessment through the concept of the Life Quality Index, which uses key societal indicators, namely, the GDP and life expectancy, and health economics as a basis for specifying minimum reliabilities for both new and existing structures. The current state of advancement of reliability- and risk-informed design, and recommendations for future developments in life safety are considered.

Understanding hydrological processes of glacierized catchments in the western Himalayas by a multi‐year tracer‐based hydrograph separation analysis

AbstractSnow and glacier melt are significant contributors to streamflow in Himalayan catchments, and their increasing contributions serve as key indicators of climate change. Consequently, the quantification of these streamflow components holds significant importance for effective water resource management. In this study, we utilized the spatio‐temporal variability of isotopic signatures in stream water, rainfall, winter fresh snow, snowpack, glaciers, springs, and wells, in conjunction with hydrometeorological observations and Snow Cover Area (SCA) data, to identify water sources and develop a conceptual understanding of streamflow dynamics in three catchments (Lidder, Sindh, and Vishow) within the western Himalayas. The following results were obtained: (a) endmember contributions to the streamflow exhibit significant spatial and seasonal variability across the three catchments during 2018–2020; (b) snowmelt dominates streamflow, with average contributions across the entire catchment varying: 59% ± 9%, 55% ± 4%, 56% ± 6%, and 55% ± 9% in Lidder, 43% ± 6%, 38% ± 6%, 32% ± 4%, and 33% ± 5% in Sindh and 45% ± 8%, 40% ± 6%, 39% ± 6%, and 32% ± 5% in Vishow during spring, summer, autumn, and winter seasons, respectively; (c) glacier melt contributions can reach ~30% to streamflow near the source regions during peak summer; (d) The primary uncertainties in streamflow components are attributed to the spatiotemporal variability of tracer signatures of winter fresh snow/snowpack (±1.9% to ±20%); (e)regarding future streamflow components, if the glacier contribution were to disappear completely, the annual average streamflow in Lidder and Sindh could decrease up to ~20%. The depletion of the cryosphere in the region has led to a rapid increase in runoff (1980–1900), but it has also resulted in a significant streamflow reduction due to glacier mass loss and changes in peak streamflow over the past three decades (1990–2020). The findings highlight the significance of environmental isotope analysis, which provides insights into water resources and offers a critical indication of the streamflow response to glacier loss under a changing climate.

Recovery and resilience of European temperate forests after large and severe disturbances

AbstractRecent observations of tree regeneration failures following large and severe disturbances, particularly under warm and dry conditions, have raised concerns about the resilience of forest ecosystems and their recovery dynamics in the face of climate change. We investigated the recovery of temperate forests in Europe after large and severe disturbance events (i.e., resulting in more than 70% canopy loss in patches larger than 1 ha), with a range of one to five decades since the disturbance occurred. The study included 143 sites of different forest types and management practices that had experienced 28 disturbance events, including windthrow (132 sites), fire (six sites), and bark beetle outbreaks (five sites). We focused on assessing post‐disturbance tree density, structure, and composition as key indicators of forest resilience. We compared post‐disturbance height‐weighted densities with site‐specific pre‐disturbance densities to qualitatively assess the potential for structural and compositional recovery, overall and for dominant tree species, respectively. Additionally, we analyzed the ecological drivers of post‐windthrow tree density, such as forest management, topography, and post‐disturbance aridity, using a series of generalized additive models. The descriptive results show that European temperate forests have been resilient to past large and severe disturbances and concurrent climate conditions, albeit with lower resilience to high‐severity fire compared with other disturbance agents. Across sites and disturbance agents, the potential for structural recovery was greater than that of compositional recovery, with a large proportion of plots becoming dominated by early‐successional species after disturbance. The models showed that increasing elevation and salvage logging negatively affect post‐windthrow regeneration, particularly for late‐successional species, while pioneer species are negatively affected by increasing summer aridity. These findings provide a key baseline for assessing future recovery and resilience following the recent occurrence of widespread disturbance in the region and in anticipation of future conditions characterized by increasing heat and drought stress.

The role of Kampar watershed in achieving sufficient rice production and sustaining agriculture

Abstract Agriculture is the largest global water consumer, crucial to understanding its impact on watersheds. This study was conducted in the Kampar watershed in Riau province, covering Kampar and Pelalawan regencies. It assesses the watershed's suitability for meeting agricultural water needs, particularly for rice cultivation. The study utilizes quantitative methods, applying the Penman–Monteith technique and benefit transfer analysis to measure the water footprint of agriculture. Key indicators include blue, green, and gray water footprints. The water footprint in the Kampar watershed is 173.84 m3/t, with rice cultivation in the Kampar regency having 57.96 m3/t blue, 32.19 m3/t green, and 14.52 m3/t gray water footprints. In the Pelalawan regency, the values were 41.09 m3/t blue, 25.59 m3/t green, and 2.49 m3/t gray water footprints. The findings suggest a significant need for ample water usage from surface and groundwater in both Kampar and Pelalawan regencies for rice cultivation. Regarding the water availability in each district: Kampar regency has 1,063,281,652 m3/year and Pelalawan regency has 987,542,991 m3/year. This surplus in the Kampar watershed ensures sufficient water for rice cultivation in both districts, especially in the Kampar regency. These hold promising further agricultural development in the Riau province.

Development of an Assessment Model for Measuring Mechanical Engineering Companies’ Circularity and Maturity Levels

The circular economy has gained significance in recent years due to its potential to achieve economic benefits and address ecological challenges. Mechanical engineering companies face the challenge of transitioning to a circular economy, which offers advantages like improved resource utilisation, reduced dependence on external suppliers, and enhanced production and supply chain efficiency. However, implementing circular economy principles proves difficult for manufacturing firms. Measuring circularity poses significant challenges, necessitating assessing methods' development, application, and validation. Industry-specific key indicators and data quality assurance are crucial in this regard. Existing models struggle to adapt to diverse contexts and industries. The outcome of this paper is the C-METRIC (Circular Manufacturing Evaluation and Rating for Industrial Circularity), an industry-specific method for assessing mechanical engineering companies' circularity and maturity level, developed using the Design-Science-Research Methodology. Based on the circular value chain, the method evaluates the maturity and circularity levels of the focused sector through 66 specific questions in 33 different areas of the company. The results are divided into the maturity and circularity levels of value-adding and strategic processes and are visualised using spider diagrams. The purpose of this model is to survey the circularity and circular economy maturity of mechanical engineering companies of specific regions and sectors.

Big data analysis and evaluation for vitality factors of public space of regenerated industrial heritage in Luoyang

Abstract The regeneration of idle industrial heritage buildings needs to take into account many factors such as history, science, art, and social aspects. Current research on industrial heritage regeneration has not developed quantitative research in each factor of assessment, and cannot provide clear guidance and program reference for industrial building regeneration weighting ratios. In this study, we put forward a spatial vitality factor range prediction method based on big data analysis for the regeneration of an industrial heritage public space in Luoyang, aiming to establish a model for the regeneration of industrial heritage abandoned industrial buildings and to provide implementation and regeneration planning. The specific evaluation process and regeneration evaluation design scheme based on Luoyang’s industrial heritage were restored. The weights and percentages of the key domain indicators and branch indicators of the idle industrial building regeneration model were predicted, which provided clear guidance and reference for the planning of regeneration of public spaces of industrial heritage. The prediction accuracy of each key assessment factor was maintained above 90%, and the sequential ranking result of the assessment factors was given. The spatial regeneration prediction scheme provided an effective guide and indicator reference for the case design, highlighting the effectiveness of our approach.

Enhancing Structural Resilience: A Comparative Study of G+35 Storey Irregular Buildings with Bracing and Diagrid Systems

Abstract: The study presented herein delves into the structural performance and behavior of a building subjected to different configurations, namely, an Irregular Building, an Irregular Building with Steel Bracing, and an Irregular Building with Diagrid System. The focus of the investigation is on key structural parameters such as node displacements and storey shear values across various levels of the building. Understanding how these parameters vary in response to different design strategies is vital for assessing the overall stability, safety, and efficiency of the structure in the face of external forces. Structural engineers and designers are constantly striving to optimize building designs to meet safety standards and performance criteria. The incorporation of additional elements, such as steel bracing or a diagrid system, can significantly impact a structure's ability to withstand lateral forces, ensuring resilience in the face of dynamic loads such as wind or seismic events. By comparing the performance of the three configurations, this study aims to provide insights into the efficacy of these design strategies and their influence on key structural indicators. Through a comprehensive analysis of node displacements and storey shear values at various levels, this study seeks to contribute valuable information to the field of structural engineering. The findings may inform future design decisions, guide improvements in structural systems, and enhance the understanding of how different configurations influence the overall behavior of a building. Ultimately, the knowledge gained from this study can contribute to the advancement of resilient and efficient structural designs, with implications for the broader fields of architecture and civil engineering.

Dynamic assessment of seawater quality based on semi-partial subtraction set pair potential method and game theory.

The assessment of seawater quality is a complex process as it involves the influence of several factors and is characterized by dynamic changes in these factors. Herein, a novel model coupled with the semi-partial subtraction set pair potential method (SSSPP) and game theory was discussed for the dynamic assessment of seawater quality. In the proposed model, the identity-discrepancy-contrary degrees were calculated to construct the evaluation matrix, and then the classification and the dynamic risk trends of the seawater quality were determined. A case study and comparison with the single-factor approach and Nemerow index evaluation method were carried out to confirm the accuracy and dependability of the suggested model. The results indicate that the proposed method can be used to measure trends in seawater quality evolution and also to diagnose key indicators affecting seawater quality. It provides a new and effective way to accurately identify the quality of seawater and its trends.

Lipolytic agents for submental fat reduction: Review.

The review delves into the realm of reducing submental fat, presenting a comprehensive analysis of various lipolytic agents used in plastic surgery and dermatology. The introduction establishes the context by defining the key indicators of a youthful neck and emphasizing the significant influence of fat in the aging process, particularly in the submental area. The usage of aminophylline involves subcutaneous injections, facilitating fat breakdown by increasing cyclic adenosine monophosphate and inhibiting adenosine receptors. Hypotonic pharmacologic lipo-dissolution induces fat dissolution via injected compounds under pressure, while lipolytic lymphatic drainage employs hyaluronidase to reduce tissue viscosity, aiding fat circulation. Glycerophosphorylcholine containing choline alfoscerate claims to activate fat metabolism, whereas the utilization of phosphatidylcholine combined with deoxycholate lacks cosmetic approval due to safety concerns. Deoxycholic acid has FDA approval for submental fat reduction, yet its mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Understanding the complex anatomy and mechanisms of lipolytic agents is essential for safe and effective submental fat reduction, despite evolving practices and off-label utilization. Clinical guidelines and references support this discussion, offering insights for safer applications.