bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurotoxins Acting on TRPV1—Building a Molecular Template for the Study of Pain and Thermal Dysfunctions
Authors: Beignon Florian , Notais Margaux , Diochot Sylvie , Baron Anne , Fajloun Ziad , Tricoire-Leignel Hélène , Lenaers Guy , Mattei César
Published: February 2025

Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels are ubiquitous proteins involved in a wide range of physiological functions. Some of them are expressed in nociceptors and play a major role in the transduction of painful stimuli of mechanical, thermal, or chemical origin. They have been described in both human and rodent systems. Among them, TRPV1 is a polymodal channel permeable to cations, with a highly conserved sequence throughout species and a homotetrameric structure. It is sensitive to temperature above 43 °C and to pH below 6 and involved in various functions such as thermoregulation, metabolism, and inflammatory pain. Several TRPV1 mutations have been associated with human channelopathies related to pain sensitivity or thermoregulation. TRPV1 is expressed in a large part of the peripheral and central nervous system, most notably in sensory C and Aδ fibers innervating the skin and internal organs. In this review, we discuss how the transduction of nociceptive messages is activated or impaired by natural compounds and peptides targeting TRPV1. From a pharmacological point of view, capsaicin—the spicy ingredient of chilli pepper—was the first agonist described to activate TRPV1, followed by numerous other natural molecules such as neurotoxins present in plants, microorganisms, and venomous animals. Paralleling their adaptive protective benefit and allowing venomous species to cause acute pain to repel or neutralize opponents, these toxins are very useful for characterizing sensory functions. They also provide crucial tools for understanding TRPV1 functions from a structural and pharmacological point of view as this channel has emerged as a potential therapeutic target in pain management. Therefore, the pharmacological characterization of TRPV1 using natural toxins is of key importance in the field of pain physiology and thermal regulation.
The Anthelmintic Activity of Stonefish (Synanceia spp.) Ichthyocrinotoxins and Their Potential as Novel Therapeutics
Authors: Lennox-Bulow Danica , Seymour Jamie , Loukas Alex , Smout Michael
Published: February 2025

Parasitic gastrointestinal worms (i.e., helminths) remain a significant global health and economic burden. The increasing inefficacy of current anthelmintic drugs against parasitic diseases necessitates the discovery of novel therapeutic options. This study investigated the anthelmintic properties and therapeutic potential of stonefish ichthyocrinotoxins (i.e., secreted skin toxins). xWORM (xCELLigence Worm Real-Time Motility Assay) was used to evaluate the anthelmintic activity of ichthyocrinotoxins from two stonefish species, Synanceia horrida (Estuarine Stonefish) and Synanceia verrucosa (Reef Stonefish), against the infective third-stage larvae of Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (Rodent Hookworm). Both toxins demonstrated potent anthelmintic effects, with S. horrida ichthyocrinotoxin exhibiting greater potency (IC50 = 196.0 µg/mL) compared to ichthyocrinotoxin from S. verrucosa (IC50 = 329.7 µg/mL). Fractionation revealed that the anthelmintic activity of S. verrucosa is likely driven by synergistic interactions between the large (>3 kDa) and small (<3 kDa) components. In contrast, the small components isolated from S. horrida ichthyocrinotoxin were responsible for the majority of the observed activity, making them a more attractive therapeutic candidate. Furthermore, despite the cytotoxicity of crude S. horrida ichthyocrinotoxin against human skin and bile duct cell lines, the isolated small components exhibited potent anthelmintic effects (IC50 = 70.5 µg/mL) with negligible cytotoxicity (<10% decrease in survival at 100 µg/mL). While further research is necessary to fully characterise these compounds and assess their clinical suitability, this study highlights the potential of stonefish ichthyocrinotoxins as a novel source of anthelmintic therapeutics.
Q Fever Vaccines: Unveiling the Historical Journey and Contemporary Innovations in Vaccine Development
Authors: Christodoulou Magdalini , Papagiannis Dimitrios
Published: February 2025

Q fever is a zoonotic disease caused by the obligate intracellular bacterium Coxiella burnetii that presents significant challenges for global public health control. Current prevention relies primarily on the whole-cell vaccine “Q-VAX”, which despite its effectiveness, faces important limitations including pre-screening requirements and reactogenicity issues in previously sensitized individuals. This comprehensive review examines the complex interplay between pathogen characteristics, host immune responses, and vaccine development strategies. We analyze recent advances in understanding C. burnetii’s molecular pathogenesis and host–pathogen interactions that have informed vaccine design. The evolution of vaccine approaches is evaluated, from traditional whole-cell preparations to modern subunit, DNA, and multi-epitope designs. Particular attention is given to innovative technologies, including reverse vaccinology and immunoinformatics, that have enabled the identification of novel antigenic targets. Recent clinical data demonstrating the safety and immunogenicity of next-generation vaccine candidates are presented, alongside manufacturing and implementation considerations. While significant progress has been made in overcoming the limitations of first-generation vaccines, challenges remain in optimizing immunogenicity while ensuring safety across diverse populations. This review provides a critical analysis of current evidence and future directions in Q fever vaccine development, highlighting promising strategies for achieving more effective and broadly applicable vaccines.
The Importance of Studying Infectious and Parasitic Diseases of Wild Animals in the Amazon Biome with a Focus on One Health
Authors: Salvarani Felipe Masiero , Oliveira Hanna Gabriela da Silva , Correa Letícia Yasmin Silva , Soares Aline Alessandra Lima , Ferreira Brenda Cabral
Published: February 2025

The Amazon Biome is home to an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, many of which are reservoirs or vectors for infectious and parasitic diseases that can impact not only the health of wild animals but also human and domestic animal populations. This narrative review highlights the critical importance of studying infectious and parasitic diseases in wild animals within the Amazon, particularly in the context of the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. This narrative review examines key pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, that pose significant risks to wildlife conservation and public health. Through a synthesis of recent literature, this article emphasizes the need for comprehensive surveillance, research, and collaboration between the veterinary, medical, and environmental sectors. The results underscore the urgent necessity for an integrated response to emerging diseases, particularly as environmental changes and human activities increasingly disrupt ecosystems in the region. The conclusions advocate for the reinforcement of One Health initiatives in the Amazon Biome to ensure the protection of biodiversity and the prevention of zoonotic disease transmission to human populations.
Development and Immunogenicity Study of Subunit Vaccines Based on Spike Proteins of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus and Porcine Transmissible Gastroenteritis Virus
Authors: Xu Mingguo , Yang Zhonglian , Yang Ningning , Li Honghuan , Ma Hailong , Yi Jihai , Hou Huilin , Han Fangfang , Ma Zhongchen , Chen Chuangfu
Published: February 2025

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) and transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) are responsible for significant economic losses in the swine industry. The S1 proteins of these viruses serve as key targets for vaccine development. In this study, prokaryotic expression vectors for pCZN1-PEDV S1, pCZN1-TGEV S1, and pCZN1-PEDV S1-TGEV S1 were constructed. The corresponding proteins were expressed, purified, and used to prepare monovalent, bivalent, and mixed (PEDV S1 + TGEV S1) vaccines. Kunming (KM) mice were immunized with subunit vaccines, with PBS as the negative control (NC) and a commercial inactivated vaccine as the positive control (PC). Immune responses, including specific antibody (IgG, IgG1, IgG2a) levels, virus neutralization, and IFN-γ production, were evaluated. All vaccines induced high levels of specific IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a antibodies. At weeks 2 and 8, the PEDV S1 + TGEV S1 vaccine induced significantly higher levels of specific IgG and IgG1 compared to the PC (p < 0.001). The PEDV S1 vaccine also induced significantly higher specific IgG2a levels than the PC at week 4 (p < 0.0001). Virus neutralization assays demonstrated that the subunit vaccines induced neutralizing antibody levels comparable to or exceeding those of the PC. Furthermore, IFN-γ levels were significantly elevated in all vaccinated groups compared to the NC (p < 0.0001), indicating a robust immune response. These results suggest that the subunit vaccines are promising candidates for the safe and effective control of both PEDV and TGEV infections.
Analysis of Histochemical Characteristics of Submandibular Gland of the Bactrian Camel
Authors: Chen Yulu , Chen Guojuan , Qi Yumei , Zeng Jianlin , Ma Long , Zhang Xudong , Qie Xiaolong , Jin Yajuan , Li Haijun , Yuan Ligang
Published: February 2025

The ultrastructure of submandibular gland (SMG) of Bactrian camels was observed by a transmission electron microscope. Routine HE staining, special staining combined with immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence techniques were used to study the histochemical characteristics of the submandibular gland and the localisation and distribution characteristics of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). HE results showed that the submandibular gland of Bactrian camels was composed of mixed serous and mucinous acini glands. The submandibular striated duct was highly developed and connected with intercalated ducts with larger diameter. Intercalated ducts are shorter and directly connected to acini. In AB-PAS staining, it was observed that the inner wall of striated tube was strongly positive for AB staining. The distribution of the reticular fibres around the follicles and ducts of the submandibular gland is distinct, with collagen fibres distributed mainly in the periphery of the ducts and sparse collagen fibres in the periphery of the acini. Immunohistochemistry and fluorescence show that EGF is strongly positive in striated and intercalated ducts, and EGFR is weakly positive in striated and intercalated ducts. Bactrian camel SMGs secrete more acidic mucins, and EGF and EGFR were mainly secreted and play a role in the pipeline system of SMGs.
Comparison of Perioperative Analgesic Efficacy of Lidocaine Intratesticular Block and Spermatic Cord Instillation in Feline Castration
Authors: Makpunpol Tossawarn , Chanrobru Yanika , Thanapaisal Passawan , Kuropakaranan Manawee , Wipoosak Piyasak , Seesupa Suvaluk , Jitpean Supranee , Kaenkangploo Duangdaun , Jitasombuti Preenun , Nonthakotr Chalermkwan , Boonbal Nitaya , Hoisang Somphong , Chaoum Wanwisa , Kampa Naruepon , Srithunyarat Thanikul
Published: February 2025

Intratesticular block is an effective local anesthetic technique for castration; however, its use may be limited in cases of testicular masses or infections. Instillation is a simple technique used in several procedures, though studies investigating its application in feline castration remain scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the perioperative analgesic efficacy of lidocaine intratesticular block and spermatic cord instillation in feline castration. Forty-five male cats were randomly divided into three groups: the intratesticular block group (IT), the spermatic cord instillation group (S), and the control group (C). All cats were anesthetized using the same protocol and both techniques were performed based on group assignments. Lidocaine (2 mg/kg) was administrated according to the designated route, while 0.9% normal saline was used for the alternative route and in the C group. Intraoperative parameters were recorded, showing that noninvasive blood pressure in the IT and S groups was significantly lower than in the C group. Although both lidocaine intratesticular block and spermatic cord instillation effectively reduce surgical noxious stimulation, intratesticular block is recommended as it provides more stable intraoperative vital signs and less postoperative pain. Therefore, spermatic cord instillation can be considered as an optional technique for managing pain in feline castration.
Detection of Bagaza Virus in Europe: A Scoping Review
Authors: Loureiro Filipa , Mesquita João R. , Cardoso Luís , Matos Ana C. , Matos Manuela , Coelho Ana Cláudia
Published: February 2025

The Bagaza virus (BAGV) belongs to the genus Orthoflavivirus (Ntaya serocomplex) and emerged in Europe, Spain, in 2010. The natural transmission cycle of this virus is perpetuated by Culex spp. mosquitoes and viraemic birds. The ability of BAGV to cause infection in several game birds from the family Phasianidae has been well-studied. BAGV is antigenically similar to other orthoflaviviruses from the Japanese encephalitis serocomplex, such as the West Nile and Usutu viruses, a circumstance which can lead to cross-reactivity in less specific serological techniques (e.g., ELISA). Severe implications in animal health has already been described, but some aspects of the dynamics of transmission and the limits of zoonotic potential of BAGV still need to be clarified. Further investigation focused on epidemiological surveillance in high-risk areas would be beneficial for prevention and control of new outbreaks. The present study is a systematic review of the BAGV reports in Europe.
Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid on the Development, Oxidative Stress, and Cryotolerance of Bovine Embryos Produced In Vitro
Authors: Anjos Mariana Moreira dos , de Paula Gabriela Rodrigues , Yokomizo Deborah Nakayama , Costa Camila Bortoliero , Bertozzi Mariana Marques , Verri Waldiceu Aparecido , Alfieri Amauri Alcindo , Morotti Fábio , Seneda Marcelo Marcondes
Published: February 2025

Oxidative stress (OS) induced by an imbalance in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in vitro impairs embryonic development. Here, we assessed the effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) in in vitro production media on OS reduction, embryonic development, and cryotolerance of bovine embryos. We evaluated the effects of adding different concentrations of ALA (2.5, 5, 10, and 25 μM) to in vitro maturation (IVM) or in vitro culture (IVC) medium on embryonic development. We also determined the effects of adding ALA (25 μM) to the IVM and IVC medium in the same routine on the development and quality of embryos, ROS levels, and cryotolerance. Embryos were produced in vitro using conventional protocols for each treatment. The inclusion of ALA in the IVM and IVC media did not affect the development or quality of embryos; however, it reduced ROS levels in grade II embryos and increased hatching after 12 h on day 7 in grade I embryos and on day 8 in grade II embryos after warming. These findings prompt questions regarding the potential of ALA in improving embryo metabolism, considering the initial embryo recovery in the first few hours of embryo warming.
Developmental Eye Movement (DEM) Test in Adults: Age-Related Changes and Italian Normative Data
Authors: Facchin Alessio , Maffioletti Silvio , Daini Roberta
Published: February 2025

The developmental eye movement (DEM) test is a paper-based tool used to assess ocular motor skills in children. By naming numbers in a simple and easy simulated reading task, the DEM test provides an oculomotor efficiency score without complex eye-tracking equipment. Studies have shown that its usefulness can be extended to adults, despite its name suggesting that it is used primarily for developmental ages. However, for a broader application in the adult population in a clinical setting, there are no adult-specific norms. This study aimed to develop adult normative data for the Italian-speaking population and assess whether the DEM scores were influenced by age. In this study, 521 healthy Italian adults, aged 20 to 79 years, participated. Normative data were obtained by using a regression-based framework with demographic variables as predictors. Results show that age influences all sub-measures of time such as Vertical Time (VT), Adjusted Horizontal Time (AHT), and the Ratio score, but did not influence the error score. This is in line with the processing speed reduction in aging. Errors were influenced by education and gender. DEM norms, defined and scored using percentiles and equivalent scores, allow the assessment of oculomotor efficiency in adults, making this test suitable for use in all clinical settings, particularly in neuropsychological and neurological ones.
Migration and Transformation of Greenhouse Gases in Constructed Wetlands: A Bibliometric Analysis and Trend Forecast
Authors: Qi Ruiyao , Dong Jiahao , Kang Yan , Xie Huijun , Wu Haiming , Hu Zhen , Guo Zizhang
Published: February 2025

Constructed wetlands (CWs), serving as an advanced wastewater treatment system, play a vital role in both the emission and sequestration of diverse GHGs. However, there are few papers reviewing and analyzing developments in the field. In this study, bibliometrics were used as an essential tool for identifying and establishing connections among key elements within a discipline, as well as for analyzing the research status and developmental trends of the research fields. CiteSpace 6.3.1 was utilized to conduct an analysis of the references from the Web of Science Core Collection pertaining to GHG emissions from CWs over the period from 1993 to 2023. This study showed the following conclusions. (1) Organic nitrogen conversion produces N2O, which is eventually transformed into N2 and released from CWs. Anammox represents an attractive route for nitrogen removal. (2) The CO2 is the final product of the oxidation of organic matter in the influent of CWs and can be fixed by plant photosynthesis. Anaerobic fermentation and CO2 reduction produce CH4. The two are emitted through aerenchyma transport, bubble diffusion, and other forms. (3) In the past 30 years, the number of publications and citation frequency shows an increasing trend. China and the United States published more papers. The top ten authors contributed to 20.607% of the total 1019, and the cooperation between different author groups needs to be strengthened. (4) The emerging burst keywords following 2020 are “microbial fuel cell” and “microbial community”, which highlights the current hotspots in research related to GHG emissions from CWs. (5) There is still a lack of long-term and applied discussion on the role of CWs in promoting GHG emission reduction. The relevant reaction conditions and mechanisms need to be explored and the possible research directions can be genetic regulation and information technology.
Estimation of Rain Garden Field Hydraulic Conductivity Based on Spot Infiltration Tests
Authors: Welker Andrea , Press James , Sample-Lord Kristin , Smith Virginia
Published: February 2025

Rain gardens are increasingly being used to control stormwater. Infiltration is a key component of volume control. Thus, determining the infiltration rate or field saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) of rain gardens is critical to their continued successful operation. Designers and inspectors of rain gardens need to rapidly and efficiently determine the field Ksat. Prior research has found that single-ring infiltrometers (Princeton Hydro, Trenton, NJ, USA) can reliably be used to determine the infiltration rates of soils. The question often posed by designers and inspectors is “how many spot-infiltration tests are needed to sufficiently characterize the infiltration capacity of a rain garden?” Five rain gardens, varying in size from 62 to 429 m2, were analyzed for this study. Three different spot infiltration methods were used: single-ring (Princeton Hydro, Trenton, NJ, USA) (least sophisticated and expensive), modified Philip–Dunne (Villanova University, Villanova, PA, USA), and SATURO (METER Group, Pullman, WA, USA) (most sophisticated and expensive). These rain gardens also had been instrumented to capture the recession rates during either natural or artificial ponding events. The linear portion of the recession curve obtained during ponding events was used to provide the rain-garden-wide Ksat. It was found that the geometric mean of six spot infiltration tests provided a reliable Ksat value similar to that found by the recession rate, which best represents the value of Ksat for the entire rain garden. This indicates that an inspector can reliably determine the infiltration capacity of a rain garden in less than a day.
Enhancing the Operating Efficiency of Mixed-Flow Pumps Through Adjustable Guide Vanes
Authors: Su Chenhan , Zhang Zhe , Zhu Di , Tao Ran
Published: February 2025

The guide vane mixed-flow pump is a crucial component in medium-to-low-head pumping stations. The guide vanes are mostly fixed in traditional designs. The efficiency of these pumps under off-design operating conditions tends to be low, leading to higher energy consumption. This study explores the design of an adjustable guide vane for the conventional guide vane of a mixed-flow pump at a certain pumping station. Through numerical simulations and two sets of three-factor, five-level orthogonal experiments, we investigate the impact of flow rate, guide vane angle, and impeller angle on efficiency. Through numerical simulation, we identify the optimal relationships between an impeller angle of ±2° and 0° and guide vane angles of ±6°, ±3°, and 0°, focusing on the entropy production rate (EPR) as a key performance metric. The results demonstrate that adjustable guide vanes significantly improve the performance of mixed-flow pumps under off-design conditions. Efficiency increases by up to 17.71% at high flow rates, and by up to 5.48% at low flow rates. Energy consumption is notably reduced. As the flow rate and impeller blade angle vary, the adjustable guide vane rotates to match with the impeller, enhancing flow adaptation, expanding the high-efficiency operating range, and reducing overall energy consumption.
Promoting Educational Inclusion Through Local Governance—A Case Study in Spain
Authors: Sánchez-Bello Ana , Lorenzo-Castiñeiras Juan José , Crestar-Fariña Irene , Arias-Rodríguez Alicia
Published: February 2025

Within the framework of the research project “What are we forgetting in inclusive education? In participatory research in Galicia (PID2019-108775RB-C4)”, we developed a proposal that, based on the inclusion and community perspective, investigates the relationship between municipal corporations and educational centres for the design and implementation of the programmes that was municipally developed to promote educational inclusion. The role of municipalities as promoters of inclusion through educational programmes is analysed, focusing on the mediation of third-sector institutions. It also studies the demands of the agents that comprise a community perspective on inclusion. The qualitative–interpretative methodology is based on SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) and CAME (correct, adapt, maintain and explore) techniques to contrast the congruence of existing initiatives with the needs of the educational community, synthesising information from 39 interviews. The results show deficient channelling of the schools’ demands into municipal programmes, which are mostly planned in collaboration with third-sector entities, without the participation of the school community. It is concluded that this demand for greater participation and collaboration is one of the main demands of the school community to promote inclusion at the local level.
Assessment of senior students knowledge on issues of bronchial asthma
Authors:   Mari State University, Yoshkar-Ola, Republic of Mari, Fedorova K. S. , Zapivakhina T. V. ,   Mari State University, Yoshkar-Ola, Republic of Mari, Danilova M. S. ,   Mari State University, Yoshkar-Ola, Republic of Mari, Ukhova E. S. ,   Mari State University, Yoshkar-Ola, Republic of Mari
Published: February 2025

Despite significant advances in the diagnosis and development of many clinical recommendations for the treatment of bronchial asthma, the problem remains urgent According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of asthma patients in 2019 was 262 million, and 455,000 deaths from the disease were reported. The paper presents the results of a survey among fourth- and sixth-year students, with an assessment and comparison of the degree of their knowledge in the etiology, diagnosis, and pharmacotherapy of bronchial asthma. The purpose of this study is to compare and evaluate the level of knowledge of 4th and 6th year medical university students on the etiology, diagnosis, and therapy of bronchial asthma using anonymous questionnaires. The study was conducted as part of the ASSA project (the full name of the project is «Assessment of senior medical students in the field of bronchial asthma») in the 2023–2024 academic year at the Mari State University. An original questionnaire, consisting of 21 questions that comply with the recommendations of GINA 2021, was developed for the survey. The answers were evaluated on a scale where the correct answer gave 1 point, and the incorrect one — 0. To analyze the results, the following methods were used: descriptive statistics methods, Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test, comparison of samples and questions using the Mann-Whitney U test, and the median criterion for independent samples. Qualitative variables were processed by means of four-field conjugacy tables using the chi-square (x2) test. A statistically significant difference was recorded when the level of bilateral p<0.05 was reached. 185 students participated in the survey (92 4th year students and 93 6th year students). The average response rate for all questionnaires (N=185) was 72.7 % among 4th year students and 69.8 % among 6th year students. The distribution of average response rate differs from normal, so its median was determined: for 4th year students, Me=78.5 % (61.9 % — 85.7 %), and for the 6th year students, Me=71.4 % (61.9 % — 81 %).
There were significant differences between the total number of students (N=185) according to the Mann-Whitney U test (p = 0.03). Significant differences in knowledge on therapy of bronchial asthma between 4th and 6th year students were revealed. The 4th year students showed the best results in a number of issues, but the overall level of knowledge was quite high, despite significant gaps in understanding current therapeutic approaches to bronchial asthma. Thus, the results of the study emphasize the need to improve educational programs on bronchial asthma, focusing on modern treatment regimens.
Auditoria de gestión y la gestión de procesos operativos en el sector inmobiliario de Lima
Authors: Reyes Lizana Jharol Thelmo
Published: February 2025

La auditoría de gestión y la gestión de procesos operativos son esenciales para el éxito de los condominios en Lima Norte. Este estudio buscó determinar la influencia de la auditoría de gestión en los procesos operativos de los condominios en Lima Norte durante el 2022. Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo explicativo no experimental transversal, encuestando a 115 condominios y utilizando estadística descriptiva, regresión lineal y correlación de Pearson. El 52.17% de los condominios realizaron auditorías de gestión en los últimos 12 meses. Se encontró una relación positiva y significativa entre la auditoría de gestión y la gestión de procesos operativos (R2=0.687, p<0.001), así como entre las dimensiones Caracterización (R2=0.622, p<0.001) y Contribución (R2=0.766, p<0.001) de la auditoría de gestión y los procesos operativos. En conclusión, la auditoría de gestión influye significativamente en la optimización de los procesos operativos en los condominios de Lima Norte.
Recaudación tributaria del IVA en el sector turístico del Ecuador post pandemia de COVID-19
Authors: Larrea Cuadrado Pedro Lucas , Puente Riofrio Mariana Isabel , López Naranjo Alexandra Lorena , Arias González Iván Patricio
Published: February 2025

Las restricciones de viaje, el miedo al contagio y las normas sanitarias ocasionadas por el COVID-19 impactaron gravemente al sector del turismo, reduciendo la base del IVA y los ingresos fiscales. Esta investigación tiene como objetivo analizar la recaudación Tributaria del IVA en el Sector Turístico del Ecuador Post Pandemia de Covid-19. La metodología es cuantitativa, tipo descriptiva, diseño no experimental y longitudinal. Se tomó como población de estudio empresas y establecimientos turísticos que generan ingresos gravados con el IVA en Ecuador. Los datos fueron proporcionados por el Servicio de Rentas Internas (SRI) y el Ministerio del Turismo, abarcando el periodo 2017 2023. Los resultados muestran que, la recuperación es desigual entre provincias, con algunos sectores adaptándose y creciendo mientras otros enfrentan desafíos persistentes. Estos datos evidencian tanto la vulnerabilidad del sector ante crisis globales como su capacidad para adaptarse y prosperar. Se concluye que, aunque algunos sectores están mostrando signos de recuperación, aún no han alcanzado los niveles prepandémicos.
Boron Nanocomposites for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy and in Biomedicine: Evolvement and Challenges
Authors: Ahmad Farooq
Published: February 2025

Cancer remains a major concern for human health worldwide. To fight the curse of cancer, boron neutron capture therapy is an incredibly advantageous modality in the treatment of cancer as compared to other radiotherapies. Due to tortuous vasculature in and around tumor regions, boron (
10
B) compounds preferentially house into tumor cells, creating a large dose gradient between the highly mingled cancer cells and normal cells. Epithermal or thermal neutron bombardment leads to tumor-cell-selective killing due to the generation of heavy particles yielded from in situ fission reaction. However, the major challenges for boron nanocomposites’ development have been from the synthesis part as well as the requirement for selective cancer targeting and the delivery of therapeutic concentrations of boron (
10
B) with nominal healthy tissue accumulation and retention. To circumvent the above challenges, this review discusses boride nanocomposite design, safety, and biocompatibility for biomedical applications for general public use. This review sparks interest in using boron nanocomposites as boron neutron capture therapy agents and repurposing them in comorbidity treatments, with future scientific challenges and opportunities, with a hope to accelerate the stimulus of developing possible boron composite nanomedicine research and applications worldwide.
Experimental study of rolling accuracy on stand 800
Authors: M.D. Zinchenko , O.Y. Potap , A.A. Burchak
Published: February 2025

The study of fluctuations in the dimensions of rolled products was carried out for rolled profiles, which are a finished product, because fluctuations in the dimensions of the cross sec-tion and the length of the roll lead to the appearance of rods of excessive length when cutting on hot saws. Cutting the rolls does not always allow obtaining a mass of the blank, from which only rods of a measured length will be obtained in the next division. Therefore, in-creasing the accuracy of mass of square or round blanks allows to reduce fluctuations in the roll length and the appearance of rods of off-gage length and prevent the appearance of short blanks. The purpose of the work is an experimental study of the process of rolling on the state of 800 square profiles to determine the influence of rolling parameters on the dimensions of the cross-section and the length of the roll. During the study, fluctuations in ingot mass, rolling dimensions, and rolling length were determined, regression equations and correlation coeffi-cients were obtained for the dependence of rolling dimensions and length on ingot mass, changes in interroll gap and time delay before the finishing stand. It was established that the mass of the ingot fluctuates within significant limits - 638 kg, which is caused by fluctuations in the mass of the melt. Fluctuations in the mass of the ingot within one molding bed are caused by the dimensions of the ingot molds, the pouring height and is within 154 kg. Fluc-tuations in the dimensions of the roll are carried out within the following limits: thickness - 1.0 mm, width - 0.5 mm, length - 5.3 m. Changing the inter-roll gap can be used to correct the length of the finished roll in a small range of lengths, if the mass fluctuations occur within accuracy of filling on one molding bed. It is necessary to take additional measures to stabilize the weight of the ingot. The influence of delays in the state line, which occur during rolling and lead to instability of the rolling temperature regime, for this type of profiles does not sig-nificantly affect the dimensions of the cross section and the length of the roll.
Correlation Properties of Color Histograms in the Case of Image Quality Decreasing
Authors: A. Velhosh , Yu. Furgala
Published: February 2025

In image recognition tasks, objects are identified by examining various features such as texture, color, contour detection, and statistical or semantic descriptions. One widely used approach for extracting image attributes is the analysis of intensity histograms. While the traditional RGB color model is commonly used in digital image processing, it is often more effective to analyze color properties in HS* systems (such as HSL, HSV, and HSI) since these systems more closely resemble the spectral representation of color. A key characteristic shared by these three systems is the use of the H (Hue) coordinate, which is represented as an angular value within a cylindrical coordinate system. The paper investigates the possibility of using color histograms generated in HS* spaces for identifying images that have undergone various types of distortions. The CQ100: A High-Quality Image Dataset for Color Quantiza-tion Research was chosen for the research. The non-quantized section of the CQ100 dataset consists of 100 RGB images in PNG format, each with a resolution of 768×512 pixels and a color depth of 24 bits. The study examines how different distortions, which can occur during real-time photo and video capture, affect the color properties of images. Specifically, the re-search focuses on distortions caused by rotation, noise, blurring, and optical aberration. His-tograms were compared using the Pearson cross-correlation coefficient, and the findings re-veal that the correlation remains high for the same image despite the applied distortions. Conversely, the correlation coefficient between different images is low for most of the studied objects. These results suggest that color histograms could be effectively used for image identi-fication tasks, even when images are significantly distorted, as is common in image registra-tion processes. The applicability of correlation detection as a method for histograms com-parison is considered regardless of the relative simplicity of its calculation. This approach could contribute to the development of faster image recognition systems.
Changes in dust concentration in a gas-dust cloud during blasting in an iron ore pit
Authors: O.O. Yavorska , L.A. Novikov , M.Yu. Ikonnikov
Published: February 2025

In open-pit extraction of minerals emit large amounts of harmful dust fractions and gas into the atmosphere. This leads to atmospheric pollution in open pit and sanitary protection zones. The largest dust emissions are observed during blasting operations in open pits. This is especially the cases when unfavorable meteorological conditions occur, means of dust sup-pression are not sufficiently effective, blasting technology was violated. Dust particles are known to be able to propagate long distances from the source of the explosion. Dust fractions up to 10 µm diameter are the most dangerous, as they are the main risk factor for the devel-opment of chronic respiratory diseases. In particular, according to European standards, the average daily concentration of dust particles with a diameter between 2.5 and 10 µm should not exceed 0.05 mg/m3. The paper estimates mass concentrations of dust fractions in the gas-dust cloud at the dynamic stage of its formation after a mass explosion in an iron ore open pit. The following assumptions were made in the calculations: no influence of the temperature factor (ejected air flows); dust particles are spherical; flow of dust fractions by the gas flow follows the Stokes law. The ranges of variation of ascent height and mass concentrations of dust fractions at the dynamic stage of gas-dust cloud formation are established. In particular, the lift height of the dust fraction is directly proportional to the value of the dynamic impulse. The differ-ence in mass concentrations of dust fractions in the gas-dust cloud is due to the physical and mechanical properties of rocks destroyed by boreholes explosive substance charge. When de-termining the mass concentrations of dust fractions, the results of experimental studies were used, which were carried out in the open pit of Ingulec Mining and Processing Combine. The graphical dependence of average mass concentrations of dust fractions depending on the height of their ascent at the dynamic stage of gas-dust cloud formation is presented, the re-gression equation in the form of a degree function is obtained. The results of calculations have shown that the greatest intensity of mass concentration increase in the gas-dust cloud at the dynamic stage of its formation is characteristic of dust fractions with diameter up to 31 μm. The intensity of growth of mass concentrations of larger dust fractions decreases markedly.
Forecasting the efficiency of agile projects using machine learning
Authors: V.I. Palii
Published: February 2025

The aim of the research is to address current challenges in the development of informa-tion systems and the integration of artificial intelligence technologies to optimize Agile meth-odologies. The study focuses on modeling and forecasting the efficiency of Agile processes, taking into account changing requirements over time and random deviations. Forecasting is understood as the process of estimating the future efficiency of Agile processes based on the analysis of time series and machine learning models. Efficiency forecasting is considered as time series forecasting, where parameters adapt depending on the system and data, allowing the model to generalize and take into account various factors affecting project outcomes. The study examines the selection of the optimal model for forecasting Agile process effi-ciency by comparing machine learning methods such as Support Vector Machines (SVM), Random Forest, and neural networks (CNN, LSTM). Comparative analysis showed that neu-ral networks (LSTM, Bidirectional LSTM, CNN) are more effective for predicting project suc-cess, demonstrating high accuracy and lower errors. The practical value of the research lies in identifying LSTM and other neural network architectures as effective tools for predicting project success. This can serve as a guideline for implementing effective management systems in real-world conditions. For example, the application of LSTM in large IT companies for forecasting the success of Agile projects has significantly improved planning accuracy and reduced risks. The research confirms that the integration of machine learning models, particularly LSTM and CNN, significantly improves the accuracy of forecasting and managing Agile pro-jects. The application of these technologies can greatly enhance project management effi-ciency in information systems.
Educational order as a motive for the formation of professional initiative of specialists in the context of corporate education
Authors: Malygin Denis Vy.
Published: February 2025

The article is devoted to the problem of developing professional initiative of specialists in the conditions of internal corporate training. A contradiction has been discovered between the social and state order for a learning adult with a developed personal quality of professional initiative and the absence of an educational order from the corporation - the customer, taking into account the specifics of the formation of personal qualities, which would be aimed at the formation of initiative, implemented in the system of internal corporate training. Two aspects that make up the theoretical foundations of the problem of the formation of professional initiative are considered: the content of the term “professional initiative” of the student and the understanding of the structure of internal corporate training as a subsystem designed and implemented by the corporation to achieve its goals in the development of human capital. The role of enterprise management in creating an educational order for internal corporate training and influencing through it the process and results of the formation of professional initiative of specialists is determined. Taking into account the mechanics of the emergence of an educational order, through a dedicated structural unit of the internal corporate training system, which we define as an “educational order point,” we show the experience of changing an educational order in order to increase the impact on the personal quality being formed.
Inertia of the Thaw in the Project of the Camp for Komsomol Activists in the Era of Stagnation (Based on the Materials of the Kostroma Camp “Komsorgˮ 1974–1989)
Authors: Kupriyanov Boris Vi. , Smirnov Pavel Al.
Published: February 2025

The article presents the results of the analysis and reconstruction of the socio-pedagogical project of the Kostroma camp “Komsorgˮ 1974–1989 as a camp for Komsomol activists. An important place is occupied by holistic ideas about the Komsomol activists as a specific group of high school students in Soviet schools of the late socialist era. In the empirical part of the study, materials from the regional press, memoirs of direct participants in the events, materials from scientific research and publications of teachers of the Kostroma Pedagogical Institute, and materials from the State Archive of the Modern History of the Kostroma Region were used. Based on the analysis of the materials, the text substantiates the model of “the Komsomol activists’ camp as a social simulator” and characterizes the game component of the life of the children’s and adults’ educational community.
Socio-pedagogical and psychological-pedagogical activity: current problems, achievements, innovations
Authors: Zakharova Zhanna A. , Kozyreva Tatyana V.
Published: February 2025

On September 27, 2024, the III All-Russian Scientific and Practical conference with international participation ‟Socio-pedagogical and psychological-pedagogical activity: current problems, achievements, innovations” was held at Kostroma State University. The conference was organized by KSU together with the Kostroma Regional Institute of Education Development. The article highlights the main research areas that received a scientific response during the conference, the current issues of the work of psychologists, teachers and other specialists within the framework of the stated topic, and provides conclusions on a number of significant issues of modern psychological and pedagogical science, which resulted from the conference "Socio-pedagogical and psychological-pedagogical activities: current problems, achievements, innovation".
The structural-level organization empathy in the conditions of university adaptation students
Authors: Solovyeva Elizaveta V.
Published: February 2025

The phenomenon of empathy has many definitions. All theories devoted to the study of empathy can be combined with a structural-level approach. In our research, we have identified many facts confirming the level structure of the structure of empathy in the conditions of university adaptation among students. The following methods were applied: diagnostics of the level of empathic abilities V.V. Boyko's method ‟Diagnostics of the level of empathic abilities” and M.S. Yurkina's method ‟Adaptation of students to higher education”. The sample was first-year students (n = 100). The novelty of the study is a multidimensional representation of the structure of empathy. The article presents a possible model of the structure of empathy in the conditions of adaptation of students at the university and its description. It consists of the following levels: psychophysiological, emotional, cognitive, metacognitive, conative and synergetic. Not only positive, but also negative relationships between the parameters of empathy and the components of university adaptation have been confirmed. The principles of the negative and positive effects of empathy on the university adaptation of students are explained. The higher the structural and level organization of the phenomenon, the higher the adaptive potential of the individual.
Santa Cruz no contexto territorial paraibano: Complexidade genética e emancipação política municipal
Authors: de Freitas Silva Paulo Rogério
Published: February 2025

Santa Cruz no contexto territorial paraibano é fruto de uma aspiração de homenagear Santa Cruz e seu povo, condicionado à Geografia, através da complexidade genética que se dedica a estudar os processos determinantes que instituem a essência de um lugar que se formaliza como uma cidade, a partir de sua emancipação política municipal. Nesse contexto, considerando os municípios, os estados e a união como entes federativos do Brasil, ou seja, unidades políticas que atuam no território, apresentamos Santa Cruz como uma unidade política, inserida no estado da Paraíba, macrorregião Nordeste do Brasil. Suas peculiaridades lhe definem como um território municipal, disposto por suas condições naturais que determinam as atividades que ali se desenvolvem, marcado pela ausência ou pela presença da água, elemento essencial para a vida, que regula a performance humana.