bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospects for the Development of Genealogy in Russia as a Socio-Cultural Institution
Authors: Abramova M. A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Based on a generalization of approaches to defining the concept of “sociocultural institution” and highlighting its inherent characteristics, in this article the author attempts to identify the status of genealogical research in Russia, which attracts an interest from an increasing number of people.

   The main goal and task set by the author is to determine the prospects for the development of genealogical research in Russia and the possibility of transforming its status to the level of a sociocultural institution.

   Methodology and sources. The author relies on the works of domestic and foreign researchers on the problem of institutionalization in culture (such as M. Weber, Au. Comte, M. Hauriou, E. Durkheim, P. Sorokin, A.A. Radugin, O.A. Radugina, etc.), on the problems of human satisfaction of values (G. Hegel and K. Marx). The author also used articles and abstracts of dissertations on genealogy from 2000 to 2024, materials of social networks and podcasts: “GEN-TOK”, “History of you & GENTECH”, “Living Book” by I. Bivol, electronic journal “Genealogy for the whole family”, etc., video materials of GENTECH festivals.

   Results and discussion. When considering the main features of a sociocultural institution and drawing a parallel with the level of demand for genealogical research, the author focuses on the diversity of meanings in the content of the activities carried out by participants in this process. Summarizing the functions that genealogical research could perform in the formation of spiritual and moral values of society, the author draw the parallel with the provisions of Decree of the President of the Russian Federation of February 28, 2024 N 145 “On the Strategy for Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation”.

   Conclusion. The results of the study allowed us to conclude that genealogical research in Russia is currently more of a sociocultural activity, about which we have heard a lot and know little. It has not become a familiar form, and, therefore, in demand and understandable for the majority of Russian families, but it has every chance of becoming not only a factor in their unity and the formation of historical memory, but also a traditional socio-cultural activity that is the norm in society, and not the exception.
Optimizing IoT Networks in Smart Agriculture Using Probabilistic Models and Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Ramsagar Yadav  , Mukhdeep Singh Manshahia  , M. P. Chaudhary
Published: November 2024

This study aims to enhance the performance of Internet of Things (IoT) networks in smart agriculture by integrating probabilistic models and machine learning algorithms. The research addresses the need for efficient, reliable, and scalable IoT infrastructures to support precision farming and sustainable agricultural practices in increasingly complex and data-intensive farming environments. A multi-faceted approach was employed, combining probabilistic modeling and machine learning techniques. IoT sensor networks were simulated using real-world agricultural data, supplemented by a small-scale field deployment. Bayesian networks and Hidden Markov Models were applied to capture system dynamics, while Random Forest, Support Vector Machines, and Long Short-Term Memory networks were used for pattern recognition and predictive analytics. Network performance was evaluated using metrics including latency, throughput, packet loss rate, energy efficiency, scalability, reliability, and data accuracy. The integrated approach significantly improved IoT network performance in agricultural settings. Key improvements include: 25% reduction in latency, 35% increase in throughput, 60% decrease in packet loss rate, 30% improvement in energy efficiency, and 6.5% increase in data accuracy. Adaptive routing algorithms, informed by machine learning predictions, were particularly effective in managing network load during peak agricultural seasons, reducing latency by 18% during these periods. The study relied primarily on simulations and limited field trials. Comprehensive real-world implementation across diverse agricultural environments and larger scale deployments is necessary to fully validate the findings. The research did not address potential cybersecurity challenges in optimized IoT networks, which remains an important area for future investigation.
Effects of Potassium Dichromate and Boron on Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage in Rats
Authors: Eren Meryem , Şentürk Meryem
Published: November 2024

In this study, the effects of potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) and boron (B, as boric acid) on oxidative stress and DNA damage in rat serum and liver were investigated. Sixty female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups of 10 animals each. The first group was kept as the control group. The second and third groups received 5 and 10 mg/kg B, respectively, the forth group received 10 mg/kg K2Cr2O7, and the fifth and sixth groups received 5 and 10 mg/kg B plus K2Cr2O7, respectively, orally for two weeks. Compared with the control groups, serum MDA levels increased (P<0.01) and TAC levels decreased (P<0.001) in the K2Cr2O7 group. Serum MDA levels decreased in the K2Cr2O7+5 and 10 mg/kg B groups, but a significant decrease was found in the K2Cr2O7+10 mg/kg B group (P<0.01). Serum TAC levels showed a numerical increase in K2Cr2O7+B groups. The liver MDA level was significantly decreased in the K2Cr2O7+10 mg/kg B group compared to the other groups (P<0.01). There was no difference in plasma 8-OHdG levels between the groups. A positive correlation was observed between liver B and Cr levels (P<0.05). In this study, serum MDA and TAC levels were negatively affected in rats administered 10 mg/kg K2Cr2O7. In contrast, administration of 10 mg/kg B to the K2Cr2O7 group had positively effected on serum and liver lipid peroxidation indicators.
Faithful reflections: Understanding LGBT spirituality
Authors: Leman Theresia Zefany Hope Leman , Tobing David Hizkia
Published: November 2024

Spirituality is one aspect of transpersonal psychology that cannot be separated. Spirituality involves a search for the transcendent. The experience of spirituality can be felt by all individuals, including by LGBT people who are considered by society to be against religious norms. The meaning of God felt by LGBT people is undoubtedly different. This study aims to describe the spirituality experienced by LGBT people. The literature review was conducted on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender subjects. The results of the literature review found that LGBT individuals have an understanding of religious values that affect their experience of spirituality. The way they get closer to God is not only by praying, worshiping, and visiting synagogues but also by implementing humanitarian values for others. This study shows how LGBT people experience spirituality.
Strategies for facing homesickness among non-local students in starting college at Airlangga University
Authors: Asdhar Haztika Jihadania
Published: November 2024

This study describes strategies for dealing with homesickness among non-local students at the beginning of college at Airlangga University. The phenomenon of homesickness in students occurs due to difficulty adjusting to a new environment in the early days of college. This research uses a qualitative approach with grounded theory research methods. The data collection technique used in-depth interviews with informants to determine the criteria for first-semester students migrating to Airlangga University. The results of this study explain that students tend to experience homesickness when they are in a boarding house alone and have no activity. The strategy of Non-local students in dealing with homesickness is to understand the conditions encountered, communicate with family or friends, and find activities to fill their free time.
The influence of emotional intelligence and peer social support on subjective well-being in early adolescents at SMP Istiqomah Sambas Boarding School Purbalingga
Authors: Sri Muspitasari  , Nia Anggri Noveni  , Suwarti  , Gisella Arnis Grafiyana
Published: November 2024

Adolescence is a period of development marked by upheaval and conflict, which can explain the problems experienced by students at Islamic boarding schools.  This is related to students' comfort while living in Islamic boarding schools, which can reduce the level of subjective well-being of teenagers. This research examined the influence of emotional intelligence and peer social support on subjective well-being in early adolescents at SMP Istiqomah Samabas Boarding school Purbalingga. This research uses a quantitative approach with multiple linear regression analysis methods. This research used a saturated sampling technique in which the entire population was sampled, a total of 118 students, with 60 male students and 58 female students. The measuring instruments used are the subjective well-being scale (SwLS and SPANE), the emotional intelligence scale (EII), and the peer social support scale (SSSS). This research shows a significant influence between emotional intelligence and peer social support on subjective well-being, with a value of F=18.158, P=0.000, and R Square of 0.240, meaning that emotional intelligence and peer social support contribute 24% to subjective well-being. It is essential to carry out positive activities to develop emotional intelligence and team activities to foster a sense of friendship to increase high subjective well-being.
Budgeting Family Living into Cost of Production: Why It Matters for Farm and Ranch Families
Authors: Meyer Anastasia
Published: November 2024

In farming or ranching, budgeting is more than just managing costs for seeds, feed, equipment, or labor. For farm and ranch families, the unique structure of finances often means family living expenses are often interwoven with the business. Budgeting family living expenses into cost of production is an essential practice that can significantly impact the financial stability of the family, especially during challenging economic periods when the operation’s income may fluctuate. By including family living expenses in the cost of production, farm and ranch families can gain a more realistic view of their business’s profitability, make more informed financial decisions, and work toward long-term sustainability.
Client Satisfaction and Quality of Rendered Services of Landbank San Pablo Rizal Avenue Branch: A Basis for Strategic Plan
Authors: Javier Lydenren , QUINTANA MARC LESTER
Published: November 2024

The study was about client satisfaction and service quality using the SERVQUAL Model at Landbank San Pablo Rizal Avenue Branch, which served as the basis for the strategic plan. The study uses a descriptive correlation design complemented by a quantitative approach and a multi-staged stratified sampling technique to analyze 200 bank clients. Moreover, the research used a modified adapted survey instrument for data gathering. The frequency count and percentage were utilized to ascertain the client's demographic profile. Mean and standard deviation were employed to assess client satisfaction and service quality. ANOVA was used to identify significant differences in satisfaction and the quality of rendered service. Post Hoc Tukey's test was used to determine the significance of group mean pairings. The relationship between client satisfaction and the quality of rendered services was analyzed using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. The study reveals that Landbank's client base is predominantly young and middle-aged, with 0–5 years of experience. The satisfaction level is slightly lower than expected, with tangibility being the top factor. The quality of services is satisfactory, with investment services receiving the highest score. However, satisfaction levels vary based on transaction types, with e-banking clients showing higher satisfaction. A weak negative correlation exists between satisfaction and perceived service quality, suggesting clients still perceive Landbank's service quality as satisfactory. The strategic plan includes tailored services for investment clients, improved e-banking features, consistent employee training, and targeted communication strategies.
PROXIMATE AND FUEL PROPERTIES OF AFRICAN LOCUST BEAN PULP AND CASSAVA STARCH FLOUR BINDERS FOR FUEL BRIQUETTE PRODUCTION
Authors: Namadi Surajo , Musa A. O. , Gana U. M. , Safana A. A. , Sani J.
Published: November 2024

The study investigates the proximate and combustion properties of affordable and locally available briquette binders, namely: African locust bean pulp and cassava starch (flour) using the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) methods. The findings indicate varying levels of moisture content (4.55% to 6.89%), volatile matter (30.06% to 64.21%), ash content (0.93% to 23.36%), and fixed carbon (7.89% to 62.12%). Elemental composition of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen range from 34.24% to 53.25%, 4.39% to 5.09%, and 32.96% to 33.19%, respectively. The calorific values obtained in the study are 16.85±0.48 MJ/kg for African locust bean pulp and 20.69±0.34 MJ/kg for cassava starch flour. Both binders exhibit properties conducive to producing high-quality briquettes capable of generating sufficient heat for household and small-scale industrial settings.
Investigating the Performance of Self-compacting Concrete Exposed to Hot Weather
Authors: Salhi Mohamed , Ben Addi Hachemi , Boubekeur Toufik
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the behavior of concrete in a real environment with a temperature exceeding 35 °C in the shade. It focuses on the rheological behavior of self-compacting concrete (SCC) and its ability to maintain its self-compacting aspect over time, compared to ordinary concrete (C3). The research also examines the impact of limestone fillers on SCC's fluidity in hot climates. In the hardened state, the study emphasizes concrete durability against sulfate and acid attacks and their effects on its microstructure. Three types of concrete were studied such as SCC without addition (C1), SCC with 15% of limestone fillers (C2), and (C3), were tested in terms of fresh and hardened states, along with durability against acid and sulfate attacks. Results showed that SCC in a hot climate maintained its self-compacting properties up to 25 minutes after mixing. However, over time, the fluidity of SCC with limestone fillers decreased noticeably and faster. The aging of concrete exposed to sulfuric acid in a hot and dry climate for six months was more intense than with sodium sulfate.
Factors Influencing Corneal Endothelial Cell Density after Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Park Chanjoon , Yoon Hye Yeon , Kim Hyun Seung
Published: November 2024

Purpose: To identify determinants of corneal endothelial cell density at 12 months after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK).Methods: This study included patients with bullous keratopathy who underwent DSAEK with internationally sourced donor corneas from March 2021 to March 2022. We assessed various preoperative factors in recipients (age, cause of bullous keratopathy, intraocular pressure, visual acuity, anterior chamber volume, depth and angle, pupil size, white-to-white corneal diameter, and preoperative corneal endothelial cell density) and donors (age, death to preservation time, preservation to transplantation time, death to transplantation time, corneal endothelial cell density, trephine size, and precut tissue thickness). We analyzed factors influencing corneal endothelial cell density up to 12 months after keratoplasty.Results: This study involved 53 patients, with an average recipient age of 65.9 ± 14.6 years prior to surgery. Donor corneas had an average endothelial cell density of 2,871.6 ± 271.6 cells/mm2. At 6 and 12 months postoperatively, endothelial cell densities had decreased by 36.9% and 47.2%, respectively, compared with preoperative levels. Multivariate linear regression analysis indicated that endothelial cell densities at 3 and 12 months postoperatively were linked to recipient age and anterior chamber depth.Conclusions: Corneal endothelial cell density after DSAEK typically stabilized after initial decline; higher densities were found in older recipients and individuals with shallower anterior chambers.
Effects of Cumulative Dissipated Energy on Corneal Endothelial Cells in Phacoemulsification Based on Nucleus Sclerosis
Authors: Jeon Yoo Young , Roh Hyung Jin , Kim Jaeyoung , Choi Sihwan
Published: November 2024

Purpose: To investigate changes in corneal endothelial cell (CEC) by cumulative dissipated energy (CDE) during phacoemulsification.Methods: Based on the degree of nucleus sclerosis (NS), changes in CECs were compared preoperatively and at 1 and 3 months postoperatively in 67 eyes that underwent phacoemulsification.Results: The mean CDE used during surgery was 4.30 ± 2.31. A comparison of the surgical measurements before and 1 month after surgery revealed significant differences in the cell density (CD) and coefficient of variation (CV) (p < 0.001, 0.011, respectively). The CD showed significant differences among NS grades 2–6 (p < 0.001). The CDE increased significantly with higher NS grades (r = 0.809, p < 0.001). Within the same NS grade, there was a positive correlation between higher CDE and greater CEC loss (r = 0.559, p = 0.001). CD changes were significantly associated with increasing CDE (r = 0.612, p < 0.001). The CD loss also increased significantly from NS2 to NS6 (p < 0.001). At 3 months postoperatively, surgical measurements revealed a significant decrease in CD with increasing NS grade (p = 0.010).Conclusions: CDE increased with higher NS grades and there was a positive correlation between CDE and CEC loss. Therefore, surgeons should plan surgical techniques preoperatively to minimize CDE as NS increases. Additionally, it is important to assess CEC damage postoperatively based on surgical measurements in patients with high intraoperative CDE.
Exploring the impacts of academic writing instruction on the use of academic writing norms and conventions: A qualitative study
Authors: Aksakallı Canan
Published: November 2024

Writing is a far-reaching element which requires the efficient use of linguistic structures and rhetorical patterns for a more advanced writing proficiency. Similarly, producing academically acceptable papers might be challenging and frustrating for postgraduate students. In this respect, it can be a notably opportune time for L2 writing scholars and practitioners to illuminate the greater importance of the accurate use of academic writing norms and conventions for more effective academic papers. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate postgraduate students’ perceptions regarding the impacts of academic writing instruction on the use of academic writing norms and conventions as well as their difficulties in the use of academic writing conventions when they write a research paper. This study adopted qualitative research design with a semi-structured interview format and textual analysis. A small-scale exploratory approach was adopted to help researcher to gain exploratory insights and determine key themes regarding the participants’ view, experiences and suggestions. The participants consisted of postgraduate students in English Language Teaching department at a state university. A 14-week course was delivered to teach the accurate use of academic writing conventions. The students were asked to write a summary of an article chosen by the instructor at the beginning and end of the semester. After the instruction, data were obtained by interviewing the participants. The analysis of summaries written before and after the instruction was used to support the interview findings. The results revealed that the participants benefitted from the academic writing instruction in terms of using the academic norms and conventions in their research papers. They generally had positive attitudes toward receiving instruction focusing on academic writing norms and conventions. Based on the findings, it can be suggested that the postgraduate students have difficulties in academic writing; therefore, they need to receive comprehensive instruction, particularly to learn how to use academic writing conventions in their own disciplines.
Treatment Outcomes and Prognostic Factors in Stage IV Tongue Cancer: Subgroup Analysis According to T and N Combination
Authors: Kim Dae Hyun , Kwak Moon Su , Koh Yoon Woo , Kim Se-Heon , Lim Jae-Yol , Park Young Min
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives We analyzed the treatment results and prognostic factors of stage IV oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) patients and explored the existence of subgroups with distinctive prognoses. In addition, the outcome of salvage therapy was analyzed in recurrent cases, and the survival rates and prognostic factors were investigated.Subjects and Method This study was conducted on patients who were diagnosed with OTSCC and underwent surgery at our hospital between June 2005 and January 2020. A total of 144 patients with stage IV OTSCC was enrolled.Results A total of 64 recurrences, local (6), regional (21), distant metastasis (33), and locoregional (4), occurred. Seventy-five patients died because of disease progression during the course of study. The 5-year recurrence-free survival rate was 54.5%, and the 5-year disease-specific survival rate was 49.2%. Surgical margins, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), T classification, and lymph nodes (LNs) metastasis exhibited significant correlation with mortality. LVI and advanced T were statistically important factors for predicting distant metastasis. The treatment outcome of the T4N0 patient group without LN metastasis fared the best, while the treatment outcome of the T4N1-3 patient group with advanced T and N findings was the worst.Conclusion The major type of treatment failure in stage IV OTSCC patients was distant metastasis, and the related predictors of distant metastasis were LVI and advanced T. In the stage IV OTSCC patient group, there were subgroups with distinct prognosis according to the combination of T and N classification. The T4N0 group had the best survival rate, and the T4N1-3 group had the worst prognosis.
The Lived Experiences of Women Leaders in Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Smith Amy , Haque MD , Amayah Angela Titi
Published: November 2024

This qualitative study aims to explore and understand the leadership experiences of women in mid-level roles in nonprofit organizations. By employing role congruity theory and intersectionality as analytical frameworks, the study aims to identify the unique personal, professional, and organizational challenges these women face. The research also seeks to contribute to the literature by examining how gender intersects with other social identities to shape the leadership trajectories of women in educational settings. The study identifies self-confidence and gender, and racial stereotypes as major challenges experienced by women leaders in mid-level roles. The research highlights how these stereotypes can undermine women's leadership effectiveness and limit their opportunities for career advancement. Overall, this study adds to the existing body of knowledge by addressing gaps related to the intersection of gender with other identities.
Unraveling the Dynamics of e-Government Digitization, Penetration and User Experience: A Case Study of Greek Municipalities
Authors: Tsatsani Olga , Patergiannaki Zoi , Pollalis Yannis
Published: November 2024

This study examines the user experience (UX) of Greek municipal websites, the first in-depth look at local e-Government services in Greece. Using Lighthouse for technical performance and an Adapted UX Audit, it explores factors beyond digital skills affecting citizen adoption of these platforms. Findings reveal widespread deficiencies, with no municipality scoring above 55%, highlighting significant challenges in usability, functionality, and user satisfaction. Critical issues in Technical Performance and Missing Features, both scoring below 50%, suggest that inherent design flaws hinder user acceptance. The study emphasizes the need for improvements in feedback mechanisms, multilingual support, and accessible help sections to better serve diverse populations. Addressing these gaps could enhance e-democracy by fostering more inclusive, user-friendly services. The results advocate for a strategic overhaul of municipal websites to increase engagement, improve e-Government effectiveness, and strengthen democratic participation. Limitations and recommendations for future research and policy-making are also provided.
Development of colloidal gold immunochromatographic strip for rapid detection of cyvirus cyprinidallo 2
Authors: Zhao L , Wang J , Liu X , Zhou Y , Li J , Lu L , Jiang Y
Published: November 2024

Cyvirus cyprinidallo 2 (CyHV-2) is the pathogen of herpesviral hematopoietic necrosis (HVHN) that mainly infects goldfish Carassius auratus and crucian carp C. carassius and is characterized by high infectivity and pathogenicity. The availability of rapid and convenient detection methods is essential for early detection of CyHV-2. A colloidal gold immunochromatographic strip using 2 specific anti-CyHV-2 monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) has been developed and validated for rapid detection of CyHV-2. The test results can be viewed within 10min. The detection limit of test strip was 2.08 × 102TCID50 ml-1, and it showed no cross-reactivity with other freshwater fish viral pathogen except KHV (koi herpesvirus). The specificity of the strip was 100% when spleen and kidney tissues of CyHV-2 infected and healthy crucian carp were assayed following an experimental challenge. The colloidal gold immunochromatographic strip will be an effective device for the rapid detection of CyHV-2 in the future.
Case Report: Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors vs. angiotensin receptor blockers in the management of chronic hypertension: a case of lisinopril-induced rhinorrhea
Authors: Amudzi Alice A. , Samale Giro Richard , Vela-Parada Xavier
Published: November 2024

A 47-year-old woman presents to our clinic with a chief complaint of rhinorrhea; she had chronic hypertension managed with four antihypertensive drugs, including an ACE inhibitor. While dry cough is a well-known side effect associated with ACE inhibitors, this case highlights a common chief complaint yet less recognized side effect of ACE inhibitors and further emphasizes the idea that overall, angiotensin receptor blockers may be a better drug of choice in hypertension due to their favorable side effect profile.
Application of recombinase polymerase amplification with lateral flow assay to pathogen point-of-care diagnosis
Authors: Zhao Yilian , Wei Yan , Ye Chao , Cao Jinmeng , Zhou Xiaoxing , Xie Mengru , Qing Jilin , Chen Zhizhong
Published: November 2024

Since the outbreak of the new coronavirus, point-of-care diagnostics based on nucleic acid testing have become a requirement for the development of pathogen diagnostics, which require the ability to accurately, rapidly, and conveniently detect pathogens. Conventional nucleic acid amplification techniques no longer meet the requirements for pathogen detection in low-resource, low-skill environments because they require specialist equipment, complex operations, and long detection times. Therefore, recombinant polymerase amplification (RPA) is becoming an increasingly important method in today’s nucleic acid detection technology because it can amplify nucleic acids in 20–30 minutes at a constant temperature, greatly reducing the dependence on specialist equipment and technicians. RPA products are primarily detected through methods such as real-time fluorescence, gel electrophoresis, lateral flow assays (LFAs), and other techniques. Among these, LFAs allow for the rapid detection of amplification products within minutes through the visualization of results, offering convenient operation and low cost. Therefore, the combination of RPA with LFA technology has significant advantages and holds broad application prospects in point-of-care (POC) diagnostics, particularly in low-resource settings. Here, we focus on the principles of RPA combined with LFAs, their application to pathogen diagnosis, their main advantages and limitations, and some improvements in the methods.
Without morals in a moral world—the expanding moral circle of The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt
Authors: Johansson Magnus , Rübsamen Michael
Published: November 2024

As video and computer games get increasingly more advanced, the immersive experience for the player of these games also follows this trajectory. In these games, one aspect that has been explored to the greatest extent is that of choice and player agency. Often, these choices and acts are of a moral character, whether it be choosing what to do on an ambiguously formulated questline with multiple branches or how to approach different creatures within the game world. The game The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt provides a case of a game that uses many mechanisms to explore issues related to moral and morality. Through a qualitative textual analysis of the game, this article explores how players are faced with the game’s moral order. Utilizing Singer’s idea of the expanding moral circle, this article explores the game world’s establishing of moral issues, including who and what are included in the expanding circle and in what way this is conveyed within the game. Relying on the dual nature of the gameplay, where players are role-playing as the Witcher Geralt of Rivia as well as experiencing what unfolds in the game in front of a screen, this article discusses how these moral orders–the one in the game world and the one in “real” life—intertwine the moral underpinnings of a digital game. This article also discusses how encounters with non-human animals often leave the player with very few choices regarding which to act, which is not presented as moral issues at all. Furthermore, this article discusses further development of the theoretical framework as a possible vantage point from where to understand morality and how it emanates in different game worlds.
Two-stage distributionally robust optimization operation of virtual power plant considering the virtual energy storage of electric vehicles
Authors: Wang Bowen , Jiang Yong , Jiang Minglei , Ma Kerui
Published: November 2024

Virtual Power Plant (VPP) is a key to aggregate various distributed energy sources. With the vigorous rise of various distributed energy sources, the direct access of large-scale electric vehicle load will increase the complexity of VPP coordinated operation. Hence, this paper proposes a VPP optimization method for Electric Vehicle Virtual Energy Storage (EV-VES). Firstly, the travel characteristics of electric vehicles are analyzed, and EV-VES model is established to coordinate and manage the charge-discharge behavior of EV. Secondly, the “carbon charge rate” model of energy storage (ES) is introduced to establish the relationship between carbon emission and electricity price, and the VPP operation model considering the “carbon charge rate” of energy storage is established. Finally, the two-stage robust optimization operation model of VPP is constructed, Wasserstein distance is used to describe the confidence set of uncertain probability distribution of wind power generation and load, and the uncertainty of system source and load are described by the confidence set. The Column and Constraint Generation (C&CG) algorithm was used to determine the optimal operational benefit solution. The effectiveness of the proposed VPP optimal operation model was validated through case study.
Early immune profiling reveals distinct inflammatory responses between children and adults few days after primary SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Van de Garde Martijn D. B. , Miranda-Bedate Alberto , Nanlohy Nening M. , Jacobi Ronald H. J. , Meijer Adam , Reukers Daphne F. M. , Van Beek Josine , Van Els Cecile A. C. M. , Van Baarle Debbie , Rots Nynke Y. , De Wit Jelle , Pinelli Elena
Published: November 2024

Background

To date, it is still not clear why during the COVID-19 pandemic children generally developed no or milder symptoms compared to adults. As innate immune responses are crucial in the early defense against pathogens, we aimed at profiling these responses from both adults and children with a primary SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

In the first months of the pandemic, PBMCs and serum were collected from peripheral blood of adults and children at different time points after testing SARS-CoV-2 PCR positive (PCR+). The levels of SARS-CoV-2 Spike-specific IgG were measured in serum. The cells were cultured for 24 hours in medium only, with heat inactivated SARS-CoV-2 (iSARS-CoV-2) or toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands. The levels of secreted cytokines/chemokines as well as monocyte phenotype were determined.

Results

Few days after testing PCR+, PBMCs from PCR+ children secreted higher levels of cytokines/chemokines compared to PCR+ adults, after these cells were incubated either in medium only or after stimulation with iSARS-CoV-2 or TLR ligands. Furthermore, PBMCs from children stimulated with iSARS-CoV-2 secreted significantly higher levels of IL-10 and GM-CSF compared to PBMCs from control children. In contrast, PBMCs from the PCR+ adults secreted lower levels of IL-8 compared to adult controls. Phenotypic analysis of monocytes indicates a smaller proportion non-classical monocytes for adults compared to children. The distinct cytokine profiles, symptom severity, and the proportion of non-classical monocytes correlated to each other. The levels of Spike-specific IgG overtime did not significantly differ between children and adults.

Conclusions

Within the first week after testing PCR+, children showed a stronger inflammatory innate immune profile and experienced less severe symptoms compared to adults. Our data implies correlations between the secretion of cytokines/chemokines, proportion of non-classical monocytes, and symptoms severity. These findings enhance our understanding of the distinct pediatric and adult innate immune profile after SARS-CoV-2 infection and contributes to the knowledge necessary to improve future prevention strategies.
Research progress of spike protein mutation of SARS-CoV-2 mutant strain and antibody development
Authors: Huan Xinkang , Zhan Jiuyu , Gao Hongwei
Published: November 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease with a very high infectious rate caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2(SARS-CoV-2). Because SARS-CoV-2 is easy to mutate, the continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variant strains not only enhances the infectivity of the SARS-CoV-2 but also brings great obstacles to the treatment of COVID-19. Neutralizing antibodies have achieved good results in the clinical application of the novel coronavirus pneumonia, which can be used for pre-infection protection and treatment of novel coronavirus patients. This review makes a detailed introduction to the mutation characteristics of SARS-CoV-2, focusing on the molecular mechanism of mutation affecting the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2, and the impact of mutation on monoclonal antibody therapy, providing scientific reference for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 variant strains and the research and development of antibody drugs.
Telitacicept in combination with B-cell depletion therapy in MuSK antibody-positive myasthenia gravis: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Jia , Zheng Haotao , Wei Jia , Wu Jiaping , Feng Ziyang , Chen Xueqin , Liu Yangsicheng , Qin Wenxin , Qin Xiude , Kong Fanxin
Published: November 2024

Muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) myasthenia gravis (MG) is relatively rare and has a higher incidence of myasthenic crisis compared with other subtypes. However, there is still a lack of effective treatment for refractory MuSK MG. We report the case of a 70-year-old female MuSK MG patient with recurrent fluctuations who stabilized on telitacicept in combination with anti-CD20 B-cell depletion therapy. This combination regimen deserves further investigation. Furthermore, we summarized the treatment protocols of 14 previously reported cases of MuSK MG.
FBXW8 suppresses PDCoV proliferation via the NPD52-dependent autophagic degradation of a viral nucleocapsid protein
Authors: Ji Likai , Zhou Liying , Wang Ying , Yang Shixing , Liu Yuwei , Wang Xiaochun , Shen Quan , Zhou Chenglin , Xu Juan , Zhang Wen
Published: November 2024

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), a newly discovered intestinal coronavirus, has rapidly spread among pigs worldwide and has shown the potential for cross-species infection. However, the interaction mechanism between PDCoV and the host’s antiviral response is still poorly understood. In this study, an E3 ubiquitin ligase FBXW8 was explored on PDCoV proliferation. Our findings demonstrate that PDCoV infection increases the expression of FBXW8 through p65-mediated activation of its promoter. We also discovered that FBXW8 suppresses PDCoV replication by directly targeting and inducing the degradation of the PDCoV-encoded nucleocapsid (N) protein. Interestingly, FBXW8 catalyzes the K48-linked polyubiquitination of the PDCoV N protein at a unique lysine-rich region (KR). Furthermore, we observed that the FBXW8-ubiquitinated PDCoV N protein interacts with NDP52, a cargo receptor, leading to autophagic degradation instead of proteasomal degradation. In summary, these findings reveal FBXW8 as a novel host antiviral factor involved in PDCoV infection. It mediates the NDP52-dependent autophagic degradation of the PDCoV N protein. These results provide new insights and a potential target for host defenses against PDCoV.
Case report: Pediatric patient with severe clinical course of CTLA-4 insufficiency treated with HSCT
Authors: Drabko Katarzyna , Zarychta Julia , Kowalczyk Adrian , Cienkusz Magdalena
Published: November 2024

Background

Cytotoxic T lymphocyte–associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) insufficiency is a rare disease belonging to inborn errors of immunity. Most cases of patients with CTLA-4 insufficiency are diagnosed in adults, therefore it is not a common problem in the clinical practice of pediatricians. However, it is worth noticing that most cases described in the literature show the first symptoms of the disease before the age of 18, but the phenotypic variability of patients complicates and delays the diagnostic process.

Case description

Herein, we report a case of an almost 4-year-old patient whose first symptom of CTLA-4 insufficiency was thrombocytopenia after an upper respiratory tract infection, suggesting the diagnosis of primary immune thrombocytopenia, often occurring in pediatric patients. Due to the addition of symptoms suggesting a proliferative disease in this patient (pancytopenia, enlargement of lymph nodes, liver and spleen), a bone marrow biopsy was performed 11 months later, which did not confirm a hematopoietic tumor. Two years after the first symptoms appeared, the patient was referred for next-generation sequencing genetic testing, which confirmed the presence of a pathological CTLA-4 variant (c.356T>C). Due to the patient’s lack of response to the pharmacological treatment and the intensification of autoimmune symptoms that threatened the patient’s life, the patient underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) 34 months after the first occurrence of symptoms. After HSCT, the patient is alive and does not present any symptoms of autoimmunity.

Conclusions

The first symptoms of some diseases classified as inborn errors of immunity are non-specific and may delay the final diagnosis. Therefore, it seems extremely important that practicing pediatricians should take into account inborn errors of immunity in the differential diagnosis of autoimmune diseases.
Estimation of PfRh5-based vaccine efficacy in asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum patients from high-endemic areas of Tanzania using genetic and antigenicity variation screening
Authors: Jun Hojong , Mazigo Ernest , Lee Wang-Jong , Louis Johnsy Mary , Syahada Jadidan Hada , Fitriana Fadhila , Heo Jin , Kim Yeonkyung , Kwon Boeun , Muh Fauzi , Lu Feng , Ahmed Md Atique , Lee Se Jin , Na Sunghun , Chun Wanjoo , Park Won Sun , Hong Min , Han Joon-Hee , Kwon Tae-Hyung , Lee Soo-Ung , Han Eun-Teak , Todd Jim , Manjurano Alphaxard , Kidima Winifrida , Han Jin-Hee
Published: November 2024

Background

Plasmodium falciparum is the most lethal malaria parasite. Recent phase 1b vaccine trials using P. falciparum reticulocyte binding protein homolog 5 (PfRh5) demonstrated safety and promising efficacy in preventing merozoite invasion. PfRh5 has emerged as a strong vaccine candidate due to its essential role in merozoite invasion and limited sequence variation. For effective malaria vaccine development, especially in high-transmission settings, strain-transcending activity must be considered. Ongoing monitoring of antigenic variation and natural immune responses is important to estimate vaccine efficacy across geographically diverse populations.

Methods

Samples for this study were collected from four villages in each of the Kigoma and Geita regions, known malaria transmission hotspots in Tanzania. This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2022 to July 2023. Genetic variation and natural selection pressure on pfrh5 were analyzed in 164 asymptomatic P. falciparum isolates. The humoral immune response to PfRh5 was also assessed using a protein microarray with 242 sera samples from asymptomatic patients in the same population. Finally, a correlation analysis was conducted to compare pfrh5 genetic variation with the humoral immune response.

Results

The results revealed that pfrh5 was well conserved, but novel non-synonymous mutations were found at D65H, H170N, and I227M. Additionally, natural selection metrics indicated the potential for positive selection and a recent population expansion of PfRh5 in the study area, both of which could influence vaccine effectiveness. Antigenicity screening revealed variable sensitivity, ranging from 3.3% in Bunyambo to 82.8% in Rwantaba, with no significant relationship between antigenicity and parasitemia, haplotypes, or gender. However, age was significantly associated with humoral immune response (ρ = 0.170, p = 0.008).

Conclusions

These findings underscore the need for future PfRh5-based vaccines to consider for increasing genetic variation and geographical differences in humoral immune responses.
Machine learning based ultrasomics noninvasive predicting EGFR expression status in hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Ma Yujing , Duan Shaobo , Ren Shanshan , Bu Didi , Li Yahong , Cai Xiguo , Zhang Lianzhong
Published: November 2024

Objective

To investigate the ability of ultrasomics to noninvasively predict epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression status in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

198 HCC patients were comprised in the study (n = 138 in the training dataset and n = 60 in the test dataset). EGFR expression was detected by immunohistochemistry. Ultrasomics features from gray-scale ultrasound images were extracted. Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) screening, variance filtering, mutual information method, and extreme gradient boosting (XGboost) embedding method were applied for selecting the best features. Random forest (RF), XGBoost, support vector machine (SVM), decision tree (DT), and logistic regression (LR) 5 machine learning algorithms were used to construct clinical models, ultrasomics models, and clinical-ultrasomics combined models, respectively. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, decision curve analysis (DCA), and calibration curve were used to assess the predictive performance of the model.

Results

In 198 patients, high EGFR expression was observed in 100 patients and low EGFR expression was observed in 98 patients. The RF machine learning ultrasomics model was found to perform well, with the AUC of the training and test dataset being 0.929 (95%CI, 0.874–0.966) and 0.807 (95%CI, 0.684–0.897) respectively, the sensitivity being 0.843 and 0.767 respectively, the specificity being 0.857 and 0.800 respectively, and the accuracy being 0.850 and 0.783, respectively. The predictive performance of the combined model established by integrating ultrasomics features and clinical baseline characteristics was improved, with the AUC, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the RF machine learning combined model for the training and test dataset reaching 0.937 (95%CI, 0.884–0.971), 0.822 (95%CI, 0.702–0.909); 0.857, 0.833; 0.857, 0.800; 0.857, 0.817, respectively.

Conclusion

To predict the status of EGFR expression in HCC patients, the ultrasomics model and combined model created by five machine learning algorithms can be utilized as efficient and noninvasive techniques, and the ultrasomics model and combined model established by RF classifier have the best predictive performance.
Soil amendments altered arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities in cadmium-contaminated vegetable fields
Authors: Li Liang , Shi Yanning , Xia Wangbiao , Wang Xiyang , Xin Zaijun , Liao Yingchun , Sun Xiaoyan
Published: November 2024

Soil amendments, including various types of fertilizers, are often used to control the uptake of heavy metals such as cadmium in cropping fields. The influence of these amendments on other members of the agroecosystem, such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), remains less well investigated. Here, we established an experiment with the application of woody peat organic fertilizer and phosphate rock powder to examine its effects on AMF communities in two cadmium-contaminated vegetable crop fields (cucumber and pepper). We found that the application of phosphate rock powder enhanced soil phosphorus content, while the application of woody peat organic fertilizer enhanced soil nitrogen content, but neither influenced AMF abundance. We also found little influence of either amendment on measures of AMF diversity, except in one case where the Shannon index of diversity was lower in pepper fields amended with phosphate rock powder. We did, however, find significant shifts in the community composition and relative abundances of AMF taxa in the two vegetable fields, primarily as a result of shifts in the soil pH and nitrogen content.