Abstract: Background: The history of radical hernia repair was a period of great activity and may have been influenced by factors of the time. Subcutaneous surgery was modified after the introduction of antisepsis, leading to dissection surgery. Objective: Analyze the publications from the period of radical hernia cure using current methodology, verifying when and how the transition occurred from subcutaneous surgery to dissection surgery. Methods: Literature review of the databases PubMed, LILACS, Cochrane Library; “Google” and university libraries. The following keywords have been used: “anatomy and surgery”. A critical analysis of the known literature about this historical figure is carried out. Results: Under-vision dissection surgery, through incision of the aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle, began in England (Durham, 1866), almost 20 years before it was performed in France (Lucas-Ch., 1885). Recurrences decreased after the introduction of the principle of closing the walls of the inguinal canal (Wood, 1860). This surgeon-anatomist should be considered the first specialist in abdominal wall surgery, due to his extensive contributions from the pre-antiseptic era. The evolution of the radical cure of hernias was made possible by combining the knowledge of several countries: England, Germany, and Italy. Conclusions: There are errors in the references to the period of radical hernia repair. Dissection surgery was initiated in England, Germany, and Italy, not in France. The influence of French literature on the history of hernias is evident, to the detriment of the contributions of surgeons from other countries. Keywords: radical cure of hernias; subcutaneous operation; dissection operation; hernia; surgical treatment; hernia history.

Abstract: This paper presents a complete Xuan-Liang unified field theory, achieving a comprehensive theoretical construction from basic physical concepts to cosmology and emergent gravity. Starting from the basic definition of Xuan-Liang \( X = \frac{1}{3}m v^3 \), through rigorous mathematical-physical derivation, we construct the unified equation of Xuan-Liang theory. The theoretical core contains two aspects: First, interpreting the Xuan-Liang field as a "Xuan-Liang fluid" filling the universe, which has a state equation with phase transitions and curvature-dependent viscoelasticity, providing a unified description of dark matter and dark energy phenomena. Second, through covariant Reynolds averaging and turbulent stress analysis, we strictly prove the emergence mechanism of Einstein's field equations from Xuan-Liang fluid dynamics, achieving a microscopic origin explanation for gravity, inertia, and spacetime geometry. In particular, we prove that under appropriate limits, the unified equation can naturally reduce to Einstein's field equations of general relativity, Newton's gravitational potential equation, and cosmological dynamic phase transition equations. Using the latest observational data (Planck 2018, Pantheon+ supernovae, BAO, galaxy rotation curves) to constrain the theoretical parameters, the results show high compatibility with observations. Xuan-Liang theory provides a new unified theoretical framework for addressing problems of dark matter, dark energy, quantum gravity, and the nature of spacetime.

Abstract: The rapid evolution of live-streaming commerce has reshaped retail supply chains, shifting market dominance from manufacturers to influential streamers. Despite this shift, the internal mechanisms selling efforts and paid traffic acquisition—remain underexplored. To bridge this theoretical gap, we develop a game-theoretic framework to model the endogenous power structure, comparing the Streamer-led Top-tier (KS) mode and the Brand-led Ordinary (MS) mode. Our analytical results reveal three key theoretical insights. First and foremost, we identify a strict positive monotonicity between streamer influence and equilibrium decisions. Regardless of the power structure, an increase in influence consistently drives the streamer to intensify operational inputs, while simultaneously inducing the brand to raise the direct selling price. In the second place, consumer sensitivity acts as a positive driver for the Top-tier mode. Higher sensitivity motivates the streamer to scale up selling efforts and paid traffic volume, which corresponds with an optimal increase in the brand's retail price. Moreover, the Top-tier mode exhibits negative sensitivity to operational costs. We prove that rising costs force a significant reduction in the streamer's operational portfolio and a subsequent decrease in the brand's price, indicating that the high-input equilibrium is constrained by cost frictions. From a managerial perspective, numerical experiments reveal a "Consensus on Scale" but a "Conflict on Structure." Specifically, brands maximize profit by collaborating with top-tier streamers, while streamers maximize profit by attaining top-tier influence. However, regarding mode selection, the brand secures significantly higher profitability in the KS mode than in the MS mode, even though the streamer holds channel leadership. Conversely, the streamer generates lower profits in the KS mode than in the MS mode, revealing a "Leadership Trap" where heavy operational burdens outweigh the strategic benefits of dominance.

Abstract: Background: Severe lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in neurologically and anatomically normal children is uncommon and frequently underdiagnosed. Its clinical presentation may closely mimic obstructive or reflux pathology, creating a significant diagnostic pitfall and exposing patients to unnecessary invasive procedures or surgery, with potential risk to the upper urinary tract. Methods: We conducted a descriptive case series of three pediatric patients evaluated at a tertiary pediatric urology center, complemented by a focused narrative review of the literature on severe non-neurogenic LUTD and Hinman syndrome. Clinical data included imaging, cystoscopy, urodynamic evaluation, management strategies, and medium-term follow-up. Results: The three patients (aged 3–10 years) presented with recurrent febrile urinary tract infections, incontinence, or acute urinary retention. Distinct severe functional urodynamic phenotypes were identified: detrusor overactivity with reduced bladder capacity; poor compliance with detrusor–sphincter dyssynergia and secondary high-grade vesicoureteral reflux (Hinman syndrome); and detrusor underactivity with significant post-void residuals. Despite normal neuroanatomy, all patients illustrated marked bladder wall remodeling on cystoscopy, including trabeculation and pseudopolypoid changes. Multimodal conservative management—combining urotherapy, pelvic floor biofeedback, targeted pharmacologic therapy, and, when indicated, continuous antibiotic prophylaxis or clean intermittent catheterization—resulted in resolution of recurrent infections and meaningful improvement in bladder function during medium-term follow-up, although symptom recurrence occurred in one patient after treatment withdrawal. Conclusions: These cases highlight the heterogeneity and potential reversibility of severe functional LUTD within the non-neurogenic voiding disorder spectrum. Early functional recognition based on urodynamic phenotyping is essential to avoid misdiagnosis, prevent unnecessary surgical intervention, and protect renal function. Conservative, function-oriented management remains the cornerstone of effective treatment in this population.

Abstract: In this paper, we propose a novel design model for an inertial switch that utilizes metal droplets as the sensing element. The overall device model comprises three components: the substrate layer, the functional structure layer, and the cover layer, along with the liquid metal. The metal droplets within the liquid storage tank are drawn towards the fixed electrode due to inertial forces. When the acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold, the metal droplet covers the fixed electrode, closing the switch and allowing current to flow through the external circuit. Conversely, when the acceleration load is removed, the metal droplet retracts to the liquid storage tank, disconnecting the fixed electrode. This design is characterized by its simplicity, low manufacturing cost, and stable dynamic response. To evaluate the threshold acceleration of the inertial switch, we developed a threshold evaluation equation through theoretical analysis and successfully fabricated an experimental prototype. Test results indicate that the threshold acceleration of the fabricated inertial switch is 0.76g, with a response time of 21 ms and a contact time of 10 ms. The overload test indicates that the device has excellent overload impact resistance and stable dynamic contact. Compared to traditional mechanical contact-type inertial switches, this research not only presents a new scheme for low-threshold inertial switches with a simple structure and low manufacturing cost, but also introduces the concept of deformable liquid metal electrodes into the field of inertial sensing for the first time, opening up a new technical path for applications such as consumer electronics and the Internet of Things that require low power consumption for triggering.

Abstract: Background: SARS CoV-2 infection, its late complications, and SARS Cov-2 vaccines are known to cause pericardial effusion. We sought to investigate the influence of the COVID-19 outbreak on trends in pericardiocentesis. Methods: We performed a retrospective population study including all > 18 years patients undergoing pericardiocentesis in a single tertiary hospital between January 2018 and April 2022. The effusion characteristics and patient outcomes were compared between patients admitted before and after the COVID-19 outbreak. Results: 92 patients underwent pericardiocentesis cases during the COVID-19 period compared to 65 patients during the pre-COVID-19 period (?2=3.07, P=0.0796). Only 15% of the post-COVID-19 outbreak cases were related to COVID-19 infection or vaccine. In-hospital mortality was numerically higher during the post post-COVID-19 group (7.7% vs. 14.4%), but this difference did not reach statistical significance (p=0.22). The 90-day mortality was also similar between groups. Conclusions: A numerical, yet statistically insignificant increase in pericardiocentesis was observed following the COVID-19 outbreak. We assume this observation cannot be attributed solely to the virus and vaccines per se. Neglect of other chronic diseases, social distancing, and widespread availability of point-of-care ultrasound may have contributed to this observation.

Abstract: The sustainability transition driven in large part by global climate change has created demand for a new generation of green technologies highly dependent on rare earth minerals. These rare earth and critical minerals are also needed for consumer and medical products as well as for military uses. This has created unintended risks, as China has assumed the world’s dominant position by controlling access to and pro-cessing of these minerals, leaving countries around the world to develop policies and approaches to minimize national security risks. This paper reviews the sustainability drivers of REEs as well as the role that the U.S. administration is taking which has triggered geopolitical tensions with historic NATO allies including the threat of ac-quiring Greenland for access to REEs and critical minerals. We explore the great power competition over REEs and chart the location and value of NATO as an alliance in these terms. This includes developing up to date data on the spatial variability of key minerals for the sustainability transition possessed by NATO and other U.S. friendly nations.

Abstract: Stimulatory inputs from the brain on CRH and AVP biosynthesis, deficiencies in the negative feedback of cortisol, and insufficient stimulation of β-arrestin-1 by cortisol may all act to increase secretion of ACTH. Cells within the tumor micoenvironment may also contribute to the availability of cortisol to solid tumors. Peripherally, cortisol activity is preserved by 11βHSD type I and is decreased at specific sites by 11βHSD type 2. In metastatic breast cancer, the normal circadian rhythm of serum and salivary cortisol is disrupted, with great hour-to-hour variation and elevated concentrations at the afternoon nadir. Major depression and other chronic illnesses have been associated with increased serum cortisol levels, but breast cancer is unusual in that the opposing steroid DHEA is also elevated. Cortisol increases cancer risk by making glucose available through glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, by inhibiting insulin promotion of glucose uptake, and by inhibiting IGF-I promotion of leukocytopoiesis, increasing the synthesis of glutamine synthetase, inhibiting ICAM-I and VCAM-1 for leukocyte recruitment, and increasing the expression of immune checkpoint receptors PD-1 and Tim3 and increasing Treg cells. Cortisol promotes the polarization of macrophages toward the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype and decreases the M1 phenotype. It also binds to membrane-bound corticosteroid-binding globulin, activating adenylyl cyclase, suppressing T cell proliferation. Overall, elevated cortisol secretion promotes growth of solid tumors, mainly by providing a substrate for growth and by suppression of host defenses. Glucocorticoid agonists may benefit therapies utilizing DNA damage response, retinoid therapy, and PARP1 therapy but may oppose therapies of ER- cancers and immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Cortisol is known to affect several physiological processes. Immunosuppressive activity has been well documented, but how all of the many activities interact to affect the growth of breast cancer has not been reviewed in recent years.

Abstract: Potato tubers can be dormant for 1–15 weeks after harvest, and the germination of tuber eye-buds is suppressed by cold. Genetic mechanisms regulating bud dormancy at low temperatures are not completely understood. We performed RNA-seq to compare gene expression in tubers after 0.5, 3.5, and 6.5 months of cold storage. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in non-dormant (3.5/6.5 months) vs dormant (0.5 months) tubers were associated with transcriptional and translational activation, cell growth, metabolism, hormonal signaling, meristem development, dormancy break, and reproduction, confirming the non-dormant state of the meristem in the middle of storage. DEGs encoding transcription factors (TFs) (CBF1, FLC, SVP, HY5, GI, CO, FT, SOC1, CDF1, POTM1) were associated with the regulation of dormancy, flowering, and tuberization. TF DEGs upregulated (78) or downregulated (224) over four times in non-dormant vs dormant tubers are considered potential coordinators of the endo- to non-dormancy transition and upcoming tuber sprouting during cold storage. RT-qPCR analysis of non-dormant and germinating buds revealed the upregulation of tuberigens (StSP3D, StFTL1-1, StFTL1-2), anti-tuberigens (StSP5G-like), and TF genes positively associated with tuberization or flowering/germination (StFDL1, StFDL, StCDF1, StCO-like). Our results should further investigation of the mechanisms underlying tuber meristem dormancy release and sprouting during long-term cold storage.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) is classified as an urgent-threat pathogen because of its resistance to nearly all available antibiotics, resulting in high morbidity and mortality rates. However, data on the molecular epidemiology of CRAB isolates in southern Thailand are limited. This study aimed to investigate the genomic epidemiology of CRAB isolates within a hospital network in lower southern Thailand. Methods: Whole-genome sequencing data of CRAB clinical isolates (n = 224) were obtained from a previous study. Additional CRAB clinical isolates (n = 70) were included, and their genomic DNA was extracted and sequenced. A total of 294 genomes were analyzed using several bioinformatic tools. Results: A high proportion of isolates were obtained from sputum samples of patients with CRAB infection or colonization. Sequence type (ST) 2 was the most frequent ST and was classified in the quadrant with high resistance and virulence. The Sankey diagram showed that ST2 was the dominant and most versatile CRAB lineage circulating across major hospitals, commonly associated with pneumonia, and that diverse resistance genes and plasmid combinations were dominated by blaOXA-23. The core single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based phylogenetic tree revealed clades A1 (ST215), A2 (multiple STs), and B (ST2). Bloodstream, skin, and soft tissue infections were predominantly observed in clade B. Conclusions: Our analysis revealed widespread circulation of a high-risk ST2 CRAB lineage with enhanced resistance and virulence across hospital networks in the studied region, highlighting the importance of genomics-informed surveillance for controlling CRAB dissemination.

Abstract: This paper addresses the fundamental question of what creates gravity by proposing an energetic interpretation grounded in algorithmic spacetime and Desmos interactions. Gravity is formulated as an emergent phenomenon arising from energetic dominance and spatial energy gradients, rather than from force magnitude or intrinsic spacetime curvature. A movement-amplified algorithmic energy is introduced, through which spacetime precision becomes a dynamic, energy-regulated property rather than a fixed background structure. It is shown that when energetic non-uniformity exceeds a critical threshold, the effective distance sensitivity of gravitational interaction departs from the Newtonian inverse-square form and transitions to , where quantifies the local loss of spacetime precision. Mercury’s anomalous perihelion precession is derived analytically as the first measurable manifestation of this energetic transition, leading to the formulation of a Universal Perihelion Law Based on Desmos that applies to all bound orbits. A comparative analysis of the inner planets confirms the predictive and monotonic character of the law and demonstrates that Mercury’s behavior is not an isolated anomaly but the strongest expression of a general energetic hierarchy. Within this framework, the Moon paradox and planetary precession are unified under a single causal mechanism based on energetic dominance. Classical Newtonian gravity and general relativity emerge as effective limits corresponding to regimes of energetic uniformity and high spacetime precision. The results suggest that gravity is fundamentally created by energy and its algorithmic organization in spacetime, providing a coherent energetic foundation for gravitational phenomena across orbital scales.

Abstract: Leakage detection in water distribution networks is critical for effective localization to address water scarcity, yet the scarcity of correctly annotated leak events limits the use of supervised learning methods. Generating hydraulic simulation-based datasets are often challenging due to incomplete network topology and sparse sensor coverage. Unsupervised approaches relying on single-model-anomaly scores frequently struggle to balance sensitivity and accuracy. This study proposes a regression-ensemble framework that learns the District Metered Area (DMA)-specific demand-supply dynamics to detect emerging leaks using smart meter data. Regression models - Random Forest, Support Vector Regression, XGBoost, and Multi-Layer Perceptron, are trained on DMA-consumption and supply data – preprocessed to preserve background leakage while detecting and correcting emerging leaks. Deviations between predicted and observed supply are quantified through Pearson correlation, Kendall’s Tau, and Z-score, whose anomaly indications are combined at metric and model levels using weights derived from model-prediction accuracy. A leak is identified once the ensemble anomaly-score crosses a threshold. The system reliably detects leaks within 8-12 hours of onset, achieving 91\% accuracy on simulated leak scenarios and 98\% accuracy for available real leak cases with 0.5 as the anomaly-score threshold. Our proposed framework demonstrates the potential of smart meter-driven ensemble analytics for rapid and robust leak detection.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Macrophages polarized into M1 and M2 phenotypes differentially regulate immune and drug responses. Despite their distinct functional roles, differences in UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) expression and activity between M1 and M2 macrophages remain poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize differential UGT expression in M1 and M2 macrophages and to elucidate how UGT-mediated prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) glucuronidation modulates macrophage inflammatory responses. Methods: THP-1 cells were chemically differentiated into macrophages (M0) and subsequently polarized into M1 and M2 phenotypes. UGT expression profiles were assessed using RT-PCR, quantitative RT-PCR, and Western blotting. UGT enzymatic activity was compared by quantifying glucuronide metabolites derived from UGT-specific substrates using LC-MS/MS, along with measurement of free PGE₂ and PGE₂-glucuronide by ELISA. Pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and secretion in M1 macrophages were quantified using quantitative RT-PCR and ELISA. Results: UGT1A1, UGT1A4, UGT1A5, UGT1A9, and UGT2B7 were markedly upregulated in M1 compared with M2 macrophages at both the mRNA and protein levels. UGT enzymatic activity was significantly higher in M1 macrophages (p < 0.01) and was attenuated in a concentration-dependent manner by the UGT inhibitor diclofenac. Enhanced UGT activity in M1 macrophages was reflected by increased formation of estradiol-3-glucuronide and naloxone-3-glucuronide (both p < 0.01). Furthermore, PGE₂ glucuronidation was more pronounced in M1 macrophages, and inhibition of UGTs with atazanavir reduced PGE₂-glucuronide formation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production, including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Conclusion: UGT-mediated PGE₂ glucuronidation in M1 macrophages plays a critical role in sustaining pro-inflammatory cytokine responses. These findings identify UGTs as important regulators of macrophage phenotype and inflammatory signaling.

Abstract: Background and Objectives: The authors aimed to describe their experience in frameless stereotactic biopsy by using Autoguide Robotic Platform and compare outcomes with frame-based stereotactic technique. We would like to emphasize the importance of this study as it is the first in the literature to use sodium fluorescein for confirmation in intracranial biopsies taken with the Stealth Autoguide Robotic Platform. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 30 patients who underwent stereotactic intracranial biopsy between June 2018 and March 2024. Patients were divided into two groups: Robotic biopsy group (n=15) underwent frameless image-guided stereotactic intracranial biopsy with Stealth Autoguide Robotic Platform and optical neuronavigation system (Stealth-Station S8, Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) by using intraoperative sodium fluorescein. Frame-based (Integra, CRW, New Jersey, USA) stereotactic biopsy group (n=15) underwent stereotactic biopsy with the use of a stereotactic planning system (Atlas Integra Software, New Jersey, USA and Brainlab AG, Munich, Germany), without sodium fluorescein and preoperative MRI and CT scans were performed in all patients. The external cranial anatomy was registered using either facial tracing or O-Arm (Medtronic Sofamor Danek, Inc., Memphis, TN, USA). Results: Robotic biopsy group demonstrated diagnostic yield of 93.3% (14/15) while frame-based group achieved 100% (15/15), with no significant difference (p=0.609). Mean calculated tip error in robotic biopsy group was 0.42±0.19 mm (range: 0.1-0.7 mm) and postoperative targeting accuracy in frame-based biopsy group was 0.51±0.23 mm (range: 0.2-0.9 mm), with no significant difference (p=0.287). robotic biopsy group demonstrated significantly shorter mean surgical time (40.26±6.13 vs 52.47±8.92 minutes, p=0.002). Conclusions: Both frame-based and robotic-assisted stereotactic biopsy techniques achieve comparable diagnostic accuracy and targeting precision. However, robotic biopsy significantly reduces surgical time compared to frame-based technique. The use of intraoperative sodium fluorescein is a valuable adjunct method for confirming that biopsy specimens are obtained from the intended target site.

Abstract: Autoinflammatory diseases are characterized by inappropriate activation of innate immunity resulting in excessive or persistent inflammation in the absence of infection. γδ T cells possess innate-like properties, including rapid responsiveness to stress-induced self-molecules, phosphoantigens, and inflammasome-derived cytokines, while retaining adaptive effector functions. Neutrophils and macrophages are well-established drivers of autoinflammatory disease, but increasing evidence implicates γδ T cells as key intermediaries, by linking innate immune activation to tissue-specific inflammatory pathology.Here we review evidence that in both monogenic and multifactorial autoinflammatory diseases—including, for example, familial Mediterranean fever, hyper- immunoglobulin (Ig) D syndrome, gout, Behçet’s disease, Still’s disease, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative disorders—γδ T cells display altered frequencies, activation states, cytokine polarization, and tissue recruitment. In inflammasome-driven diseases, skewing of γδ T cells toward interleukin (IL)-17 production has been observed, often accompanied by reduced interferon (IFN)-γ secretion, thereby amplifying neutrophilic inflammation and tissue damage. In other diseases, e.g Behcet`s disease, IFNg and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)a producton predominate. Transcriptomic and tissue-based analyses support the accumulation and functional specialization of γδ T cells at sites of sterile inflammation. Collectively, these findings position γδ T cells as central amplifiers and modulators of inappropriate innate immune activation in the context of autoinflammatory diseases. Improved understanding of γδ T cell subset-specific regulation may inform novel therapeutic strategies targeting autoinflammatory diseases.

Abstract: Shipping is urgently exploring alternative vessel energy sources across a wide range of options - from other fossil fuels to renewables - with a view to more sustainable ship propulsion. Based on processing of publicly available data, the authors discuss the prospects of the supply chains for 16 vessel power sources alternative to oil, comparing descriptive statistics across respective fuel supply chain Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to evaluate potentiality along with hidden vulnerabilities. While finding marked dif-ferences across calculated mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation values, the authors do not preclude the development of parallel ship fuel supply chains, unlike the case of previous fuel transitions in shipping. To support this scenario, already forming in practice, they emphasize the enabling attributes of today’s world fleet in terms of total capacity and of size of each of the main shipping sectors which could eventually sustain nowadays multiple fuel supply chains. Concluding on limitations and challenges that such an energy-source multitude can create, the authors underline the need to consider in the Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) of shipping fuels their total impact, including necessary ship hardware changes for a more thorough assessment of fuels’ impact across the entire shipping services’ supply chain.

Abstract: Carbon dots (CDs) have enormous potential in optical sensing applications because of their remarkable physicochemical properties. Benefiting from high specific surface area, rich active sites, bright photoluminescence, high photostability, and biocompatibility, CDs have been widely used as functional layers in optical fiber sensors, resulting in notable improvements in sensitivity, response speed, and environmental stability. This review describes recent advances in CD-integrated optical fiber sensors, with a focus on CD synthesis techniques and their integration with optical fibers for the sensing of diverse analytes, such as heavy metal ions, biomarkers, and dyes. CD-integrated fiber sensors exhibit significantly enhanced detection performance in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, repeatability, response time, and recovery time, compared to their non-CD counterparts. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives are discussed. This review aims to provide valuable insights for the design and development of novel CD-integrated optical fiber platforms for sensing chemically and biologically relevant analytes.

Abstract: The effect of confinement of fluorophores (Rhodamine 6G) in nano-cavities of porous 3D sculptured coatings made by glancing angle deposition (GLAD) was investigated by fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). Shortening of fluorescence/photoluminescence lifetime by ~ 10% was observed from the dye-permeated (in liquid) structure; however, there was no rotational hindrance of dye molecules. When dried, a strong rotational hindrance 89% was observed for the orientation along the ordinary optical axis (fast-axis), and the hindrance was smaller than 57% for the extraordinary direction (fast axis). Light intensity distribution inside the nano-structure with a form-birefringence was numerically modelled using plane wave illumination and a dipole source. Nanoscale localisation of light intensity due to dipole nature I ~ 1/radius^6 and boundary conditions for E-field allows efficient energy deposition inside the region of lower refractive index (nanogaps).

Abstract: Agritourism is an expanding form of experience-based rural tourism, yet limited empirical research explains how experiential marketing shapes perceived value and satisfaction in authentic farming contexts. Drawing on Schmitt’s Strategic Experiential Modules and the Memorable Tourism Experience (MTE) framework, this study develops and tests a structural model linking agritourism experience, perceived value, and satisfaction. Survey data from 398 visitors across twelve certified agritourism communities in Taiwan were analyzed using CFA and SEM. Results show that agritourism experiences significantly enhance perceived value and directly increase satisfaction, with perceived value exerting a strong mediating effect. The findings underscore the distinctiveness of agritourism, where authenticity, natural variability, and human–land interactions generate experiential outcomes not replicable in constructed tourism spaces. The study advances experiential marketing theory and offers practical guidance for rural tourism development.

Abstract: A number of approaches to a theory of quantum gravity assume the fabric of spacetime is distinct from the spacetime of the material world of matter and energy. On a short time scale, one cannot distinguish between the fabric of spacetime expanding, nominally due to dark energy, or the scale of the material world contracting with respect to the fabric of spacetime. Contraction of the scale of the material world (length, time, mass, and charge contracting equally) maintains observable physical laws and results in a decreasing derived dark energy density matching that reported by the DESI Collaboration in March 2025. The DESI fits to the dark energy density over time show a distinct difference between those using scale-dependent supernovae data and those using mostly scale-independent angular measurements, such as from CMB and BAO measurements. That difference is resolved by applying a scale contraction rate of -3%/Gyr to the supernovae data. Scale contraction of the material world eliminates the need for dark energy to explain the apparent expansion of space, resolving the ~10¹²² discrepancy between the dark energy density required to match observation and that calculated for the vacuum energy as the mechanism for dark energy. The large force of the vacuum energy is a potential mechanism for compression of the material world, and would explain why the observed expansion only occurs outside of gravitationally bound systems. A scale-contraction model for cosmological kinematics explains why the dark energy density appears to be decreasing without requiring the underlying vacuum energy to be changing with time. Scale contraction of the material world predicts the observed directions and order of magnitude of the Hubble tension and the S₈ tension, which has been a challenge to other proposed modifications of ΛCDM since those two tensions have opposite trends over time, the Hubble constant being about 10% larger in the late universe compared to the early universe, and the structure constant, S₈, about 10% smaller. Scale contraction of the material world can be tested by modifying the LCDM cosmological model to include scale contraction over time, and assessing if the Hubble and S₈ tensions are quantitatively reduced or resolved.