bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technological and environmental features of the well construction cycle in mineral leaching methods
Authors: Pavlychenko A , Koroviaka Y , Martsynkiv O , Ihnatov A , Vasylchenko D , Askerov I
Published: July 2024

Purpose. Development of rational regulations for cleaning and securing wells for underground leaching of metals while simultaneously complying with environmental safety standards. Research methodology. Determination of the features of well construction was carried out using theoretical and experimental research methods, instrumentation and materials. The measurement of technological parameters of flushing liquids was carried out using special devices: an SPV-5 viscometer, a SNZ-2 rotational plastometer, a VM-6 device. Research results.We have proposed formulations of washing liquids with a reduced solid phase content. For these liquids, the optimal concentrations of the clay component, which is within 5%, have been determined. Using carboxymethylcellulose as an example, the effectiveness of chemical treatment is achieved at concentrations of this polymer of up to 0.3%. Additional enhancement of the stabilization of clay washing liquids can be obtained by using water-repellent reagents, in particular sulfate soap with a concentration of up to 2%. The reagents studied, among other things, have a moderately insignificant impact on the environment. Originality. We have proven and analytically studied the possibility of increasing the efficiency and environmental friendliness of the method of underground leaching of metals by rationalizing the technology for constructing production wells, in particular, by using high-quality flushing fluids with the appropriate values of conditional viscosity and static shear stress, as well as fluid loss. Practical implications. The washing liquid formulations proposed for use are distinguished by the availability of components and clear predictability of technological characteristics; their use will allow to avoid the phenomena of deterioration of the properties of the well waterproofing system while simultaneously ensuring compliance with environmental protection standards.
Universal Mail Ballot Delivery Boosts Turnout: The Causal Effects of Sending Mail Ballots to All Registered Voters
Authors: Alvarez R. Michael , Li Yimeng
Published: July 2024

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, some American states had transitioned to universal voting-by-mail, where all registered voters receive a mail ballot. But due to the pandemic, universal voting-by-mail was suddenly used in a larger number of states in 2020. Here we study a unique situation in which registered voters in some legislative districts in Los Angeles County were subjected to universal voting-by-mail in the March 2020 primary. Using difference-in-differences and geographic boundary-based designs on individual-level records, we take advantage of this within-jurisdiction situation to estimate the causal effects of universal voting-by-mail on voter turnout and on who votes. Our results indicate that voter turnout increased by 3 to 4 percentage points for voters who do not automatically receive a mail ballot, and the increase is generally larger for registered partisan voters than those without a party affiliation.
Patrones espacio-temporales en la abundancia y biomasa de peces loro (Perciformes: Scaridae) en la costa norte de la República Dominicana
Authors: Zambrano Someira , Croquer Aldo , Evangelista D. Yasmín , King Samuel , Delance Jonathan , Romero-Mujalli Daniel
Published: July 2024

Los arrecifes de coral en la República Dominicana han experimentado un declive acelerado debido a una serie de estresores locales y globales. La extracción comercial de peces loros (géneros Scarus y Sparisoma) ha llevado a la reducción de las poblaciones de estas especies y a la degradación de los arrecifes de coral debido al papel central que tienen estos organismos en el control del crecimiento de algas. En un intento de revertir este problema, las autoridades ambientales establecieron vedas para estas especies en 2017, 2021 y 2023, cada una con una duración de dos años. Sin embargo, la necesidad de líneas base que permitan entender la variabilidad espacial y temporal natural de estas poblaciones, dificulta cualquier intento de evaluación de la efectividad de las regulaciones. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados de un programa de monitoreo orientado a evaluar la variabilidad espacial y temporal de estas especies a lo largo de la costa norte de la República Dominicana. Para ello utilizamos un diseño espacial jerárquicamente anidado cubriendo dos escalas: (1) localidad (cientos de kilómetros) como factor aleatorio con tres niveles (Punta Rucia, Sosúa y Samaná) y sitios anidados (cientos de metros) dentro de localidad, cada uno monitoreado tres veces al año. En cada sitio se monitorearon 5 transectos de 30 x 2 m ubicados en el contorno del arrecife sobre los cuales se estimó la abundancia de peces loro siguiendo el protocolo de AGRRA. Las tendencias temporales de los ensamblajes de peces fueron variables a escala de sitios en 2021 (Permanova, gl = 8, F = 2.3573, p-valor = 0.001, CV = 19.51) y 2022 (Permanova, gl = 4, F = 2.7869, p-valor = 0.001, CV = 20.97), indicando que estas especies son altamente dinámicas en espacio y tiempo. Nuestros resultados resaltan la importancia del entendimiento de la variabilidad espacial y temporal de los peces loro, si se quiere diseñar mejores medidas que ayuden a su efectiva protección en el país.
Depredación de Centruroides gracilis (Scorpiones: Buthidae) y Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Ixodida: Ixodidae) por Anolis sagrei (Squamata: Anolidae) en Cuba
Authors: De Armas Luis F
Published: July 2024

Se registra, por primera vez, la depredación del escorpión Centruroides gracilis (Latreille, 1804) y de la garrapata común del perro (Rhipicephalus sanguineus s. l.) por Anolis sagrei Duméril & Bibron, 1837, hecho comprobado a partir de los fragmentos de ambos arácnidos contenidos en las heces fecales de este lagarto. El escorpión depredado era una ninfa I, en tanto de la garrapata se detectaron tres machos adultos en igual cantidad de bolos fecales examinados. Las observaciones fueron realizadas en septiembre de 2023 en la terraza de una vivienda urbana en San Antonio de los Baños, Artemisa, Cuba. Esta especie de lagarto constituye el sexto depredador conocido de R. sanguineus s. l. y de C. gracilis en Cuba. Además, es el tercer caso de depredación de un escorpión por A. sagrei.
ESTRATÉGIAS DE CONTEÚDO DIGITAL E SEUS EFEITOS NA PRODUTIVIDADE DAS MICRO E PEQUENAS EMPRESAS
Authors: Furlan Talía , Hupalo Leandro
Published: July 2024

Este artigo explora a influência do marketing de conteúdo na produtividade de micro e pequenas empresas no Extremo Oeste Catarinense. O objetivo principal é analisar estratégias eficazes de produção de conteúdo nas redes sociais adotadas por empresas locais. A pesquisa abrangeu 17 empresas participantes do Programa Brasil Mais, destacando diferentes abordagens, como foco em conteúdo visual envolvente, produção de conteúdo educativo e interação ativa nas redes sociais. Além disso, algumas empresas optaram por transmissões ao vivo de vendas, enquanto outras incorporaram tráfego pago em suas estratégias. Os procedimentos metodológicos incluíram análise qualiquantitativa. Os resultados revelam uma correlação positiva entre a implementação dessas estratégias e o aumento da produtividade, evidenciando a importância de se adaptar constantemente às tendências do marketing digital. O artigo destaca a necessidade de uma abordagem colaborativa, enfatizando o papel essencial do marketing de conteúdo como um catalisador para o crescimento sustentável e a resiliência das micro e pequenas empresas na região. Este estudo oferece insights valiosos para pesquisadores, profissionais e empresários interessados em aprimorar suas práticas de marketing digital para aumentar a produtividade.
NIETZSCHE COM E CONTRA KANT
Authors: Da Silva Marco
Published: July 2024

O primeiro objetivo é compreender alguns pontos básicos da Ética do Dever articulada por Immanuel Kant (1724-1804). Na sequência, busca-se compreender as críticas a essa filosofia por parte de Nietzsche (1844-1900), que enfocavam a abordagem racionalista e universalista de Kant à moralidade. Nietzsche promoveu uma moralidade mais individualista e de afirmação da vida baseada na vontade e nos instintos do indivíduo. Portanto, há um claro conflito entre suas filosofias morais, embora as críticas de Nietzsche fossem dirigidas à teoria moral de Kant, não a Kant como indivíduo. Nietzsche viu a filosofia moral de Kant como representando uma moralidade "sacerdotal" que nega a vida, enquanto ele queria promover uma moralidade que afirma a vida. Dessa forma, questionaremos as noções kantianas de dever, liberdade, imperativo categórico, moralidade e virtude. Em contrapartida, analisaremos as questões de Nietzsche sobre a impossibilidade da moralidade pelo dever, a crítica ao imperativo categórico, e a própria coisa, mostrando o que pode servir de ensaio para a ideia de virtude do autor.
REFLEXÕES SOBRE OS CONCEITOS DE AUTONOMIA E EDUCAÇÃO A PARTIR DE IMMANUEL KANT E PAULO FREIRE
Authors: Lima Antônio Ismael da Silva
Published: July 2024

O presente trabalho é pré-requisito para a conclusão do curso de Licenciatura em Pedagogia no Centro Universitário Internacional (UNINTER) e se propõe a estabelecer um breve diálogo entre o pensamento de Paulo Freire, patrono da educação brasileira, e do filósofo alemão Immanuel Kant sobre Autonomia e Educação, demonstrando que uma é fruto da outra ou que uma necessita da outra para existir, pois sem a educação é quase impossível que o individuo se torne autônomo em suas relações sociais. A partir desse trabalho, vislumbramos refletir sobre a relação que a Educação exerce sobre a Autonomia em sua práxis cotidiana. Para tanto, pautamos nossa tarefa a partir de uma pesquisa bibliográfica, possuindo centralidade em algumas das principais obras dos autores em estudo. O que aprendemos com essas leituras e buscamos refletir na escrita deste trabalho é a importância que a educação tem para a promoção da autonomia do indivíduo em todos os sentidos e âmbitos de sua vida e o reflexo de sua prática na sociedade.
É POSSÍVEL FILOSOFAR NO YOUTUBE?
Authors: Moreira Gomes Leonardo
Published: July 2024

Este ensaio tem como objetivo apresentar de maneira introdutória e modesta a relevância social da divulgação científica, isto é, a transmissão do conhecimento científico produzido no espaço acadêmico (prático/laboratório ou teórico) em uma linguagem acessível para a sociedade, neste momento, daremos ênfase para a divulgação científica nas humanidades, mais especificamente na divulgação filosófica através da plataforma do YouTube.
É possível apresentar de maneira honesta a divulgação filosófica? Partimos do pressuposto que existe tal possibilidade e é necessário que a comunidade filosófica se posicione a este respeito, seja através de iniciativas individuais ou coletivas.
Palavras-chave: Ciências humanas; divulgação científica; educação; filosofia; plataforma
O AREÓPAGO E SUA FUNÇÃO EDUCADORA NO PROCESSO DEMOCRÁTICO DOS GREGOS
Authors: De Macedo Marcio
Published: July 2024

Este artigo se ocupa do problema da justiça e da democracia em suas origens gregas, tomando por base a instituição do Areópago. Na literatura grega o Tribunal do Areópago teve sua origem vinculada ao mito que narra o julgamento Ares, mencionado por Homero e registrado na Biblioteca de Apolodoro. Na descrição mítica é possível encontrar relações que marcaram a vinculação entre democracia e justiça. A formação tribunalícia com os deuses do panteão olímpico já demarcavam questões ambíguas e alternativas de ação próprias da vida política e jurídica do antigo mundo grego. Desse julgamento os gregos tomaram aspectos instrutivos importantes para a edificação do regime democrático, primeiramente com Sólon, e posteriormente com as reformulações de Clístenes, que resultaram na educação. O Areópago foi a instituição que tinha responsabilidade não apenas pela elaboração, aplicação e guarda da lei, mas também pela regulamentação dos critérios que serviriam à instrução dos gregos para o regime democrático. A origem da democracia na Grécia guarda aspectos substanciais, os quais ressurgem nos nossos dias e merecem revisitação para que não descuidemos em aperfeiçoá-la.
A TÉCNICA COMO FIM DA METAFÍSICA EM HEIDEGGER
Authors: Da Silva Antonio Joel Lima , Teixeira Peniche Esmael
Published: July 2024

Este artigo descrever a técnica como o fim da metafísica em Heidegger. Nesse sentido, partiremos de dois momentos: 1) demonstrar-se-á como Heidegger atribui à metafísica a responsabilidade de velar o ser e de impossibilitar a própria questão do sentido do ser; configurando-se, assim, como a história do esquecimento do ser. Por isso, a metafísica teria legado ao Dasein uma forma inautêntica de compreensão e interpretação de si e do mundo; 2) a técnica será descrita como a realização da metafísica a partir de dois apontamentos: 1) parte-se da definição do segundo momento do pensamento de Heidegger, denominado por Benedito Nunes como hermenêutica epocal, em que Heidegger buscaria nas épocas a verdade do ser, e o universo da técnica seria o atual modo de relacionamento entre o homem e ser. O segundo apontamento traz a necessidade de esclarecer as expressões “superação da metafísica” e “fim da metafísica”, pois, entende-se que a transformação da metafísica na era da ciência moderna não pode ser confundida como uma superação, e sim como uma realização.
LM11A-31, a modulator of p75 neurotrophin receptor, suppresses HIV-1 replication and inflammatory response in macrophages
Authors: Mirzahosseini Golnoush , Sinha Namita , Zhou Lina , Godse Sandip , Kodidela Sunitha , Singh Udai P. , Ishrat Tauheed , Kumar Santosh
Published: July 2024

Antiretroviral drugs have made significant progress in treating HIV-1 and improving the quality of HIV-1-infected individuals. However, due to their limited permeability into the brain HIV-1 replication persists in brain reservoirs such as perivascular macrophages and microglia, which cause HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorders. Therefore, it is highly desirable to find a novel therapy that can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and target HIV-1 pathogenesis in brain reservoirs. A recently developed 2-amino-3-methylpentanoic acid [2-morpholin-4-yl-ethyl]-amide (LM11A-31), which is a p75 neutrotrophin receptor (p75NTR) modulator, can cross the BBB. In this study, we examined whether LM11A-31 treatment can suppress HIV-1 replication, oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and inflammatory response in macrophages. Our results showed that LM11A-31 (100 nM) alone and/or in combination with positive control darunavir (5.5 µM) significantly suppresses viral replication and reduces cytotoxicity. Moreover, the HIV-1 suppression by LM11A-31 was comparable to the HIV-1 suppression by darunavir. Although p75NTR was upregulated in HIV-1-infected macrophages compared to uninfected macrophages, LM11A-31 did not significantly reduce the p75NTR expression in macrophages. Furthermore, our study illustrated that LM11A-31 alone and/or in combination with darunavir significantly suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-8, IL-18, and TNF-α and chemokines MCP-1 in HIV-induced macrophages. The suppression of these cytokines and chemokines by LM11A-31 was comparable to darunavir. In contrast, LM11A-31 did not significantly alter oxidative stress, expression of antioxidant enzymes, or autophagy marker proteins in U1 macrophages. The results suggest that LM11A-31, which can cross the BBB, has therapeutic potential in suppressing HIV-1 and inflammatory response in brain reservoirs, especially in macrophages.
A discrete-time model that weakly converges to a continuous-time geometric Brownian motion with Markov switching drift rate
Authors: Golomoziy Vitaliy , Mishura Yuliya , Kladívko Kamil
Published: July 2024

This research is devoted to studying a geometric Brownian motion with drift switching driven by a 2 × 2 Markov chain. A discrete-time multiplicative approximation scheme was developed, and its convergence in Skorokhod topology to the continuous-time geometric Brownian motion with switching has been proved. Furthermore, in a financial market where the discounted asset price follows a geometric Brownian motion with drift switching, market incompleteness was established, and multiple equivalent martingale measures were constructed.
Non-contact tonometry: predicting intraocular pressure using a material—corneal thickness—independent methodology
Authors: Redaelli Elena , Calvo Begoña , Rodriguez Matas Jose Felix , Luraghi Giulia , Grasa Jorge
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, is primarily caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Accurate and reliable IOP measurements are the key to diagnose the pathology in time and to provide for effective treatment strategies. The currently available methods for measuring IOP include contact and non contact tonometers (NCT), which estimate IOP based on the corneal deformation caused by an external load, that in the case of NCT is an air pulse. The deformation of the cornea during the tonometry is the result of the coupling between the IOP, the mechanical properties of the corneal tissue, the corneal thickness, and the external force applied. Therefore, there is the need to decouple the four contributions to estimate the IOP more reliably.

Methods: This paper aims to propose a new methodology to estimate the IOP based on the analysis of the mechanical work performed by the air jet and by the IOP during the NCT test. A numerical eye model is presented, initially deformed by the action of a falling mass to study the energy balance. Subsequently, Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) simulations are conducted to simulate the action of Corvis ST.

Results and discussion: The new IOP estimation procedure is proposed based on the results of the simulations. The methodology is centred on the analysis of the time of maximum apex velocity rather than the point of first applanation leading to a new IOP estimation not influenced by the geometrical and mechanical corneal factors.
Reassessment of natural expansive materials and their impact on freeze-thaw cycles in geotechnical engineering: a review
Authors: Oppong Felix , Kolawole Oladoyin
Published: July 2024

The stabilization and application of expansive geomaterials are critical in geotechnical engineering. These naturally expansive materials exhibit complex hydro-chemo-mechanical properties because they undergo volumetric changes in response to variations in moisture content and/or temperature. The characteristic shrink-swell behavior of these materials makes their use problematic and plays a substantial role in influencing the stability of geo-infrastructure applications. However, there is a lack of comprehensive knowledge of the mechanisms and factors impacting their behavior to ensure mechanical integrity in natural and built infrastructure and geo-engineering projects. This work provides a comprehensive review of the intrinsic and extrinsic factors contributing to the shrink-swell behavior and expansion mechanisms of frost-heaving and natural-expansive geomaterials, such as expansive clays and sulfate minerals. We reviewed and synthesized peer-reviewed published works in various databases and academic repositories in the last 100 years. The influence of shrink-swell behavior of these geomaterials and the critical role they play in engineering infrastructure were highlighted, explicitly focusing on their involvement in geotechnical-related hazards, such as the freeze-thaw cycle, and the damage and sulfate-attack of geo-infrastructure. We analyzed the interactions between clay minerals, especially how bentonite enhances grout stability and acts as a buffer material in high-level nuclear waste repositories. The findings indicate that water interaction with geomaterials and concrete can cause about a 10% volume expansion when frozen. Also, the exposure of fractured rocks to low (≤0°C) and high (>0°C) temperatures can greatly change rock deformation and strength. Finally, gypsum interacting with water can theoretically increase in volume by 62% to form ice crystals. This forward-leading review presents the advantages, disadvantages, and unresolved issues of expansive natural geotechnical materials that improve the resiliency and sustainability of geological infrastructure.
Three-dimensional structural and metric characterisation of cardioids
Authors: Geyer Stefan H. , Ceci Ginistrelli Lavinia , Ilmer Tobias , Schwendt Karoline M. , Mendjan Sasha , Weninger Wolfgang J.
Published: July 2024

Exact three-dimensional (3D) structural information of developing organoids is key for optimising organoid generation and for studying experimental outcomes in organoid models. We set up a 3D imaging technique and studied complexly arranged native and experimentally challenged cardioids of two stages of remodelling. The imaging technique we employed is S-HREM (Scanning High Resolution Episcopic Microscopy), a variant of HREM, which captures multiple images of subsequently exposed surfaces of resin blocks and automatically combines them to large sized digital volume data of voxels sizes below 1 μm3. We provide precise volumetric information of the examined specimens and their single components and comparisons between stages in terms of volume and micro- and macroanatomic structure. We describe the 3D arrangement and lining of different types of cavities and their changes between day 10 and day 14 and map the various cell types to their precise spatial and structural environment. Exemplarily, we conducted semiautomatic counts of nuclei. In cryo-injured cardioids, we examined the extension and composition of the injured areas. Our results demonstrate the high quality and the great potential of digital volume data produced with S-HREM. It also provides sound metric and structural information, which assists production of native and experimentally challenged left ventricle cardioids and interpretation of their structural remodelling.
Practical applications of copper-based enzymes: synthesis of sulfonated polyaniline through laccase-catalyzed oxidation
Authors: Fabrizi de Biani Fabrizia , Corsini Maddalena , Pogni Rebecca , Baratto Maria Camilla
Published: July 2024

Known for its tunable conductivity and stability, Polyaniline (PANI) is a valuable polymer for electronics and sensing devices. Challenges in solubility have been addressed by creating sulfonated PANI (SPANI), enhancing its practical use. Synthesizing SPANI from sulfonated aniline is intricate, but laccase biocatalysis offers an eco-conscious solution, effective even against high redox potential obstacles. This research monitored the Trametes versicolor laccase-induced oxidation of 3-ABSa via UV-vis spectroscopy, with a notable peak at 565 nm signifying SPANI synthesis, effective even at suboptimal pH. Mediators further boost this process. Moreover, NMR and spectroelectrochemistry confirm the green synthesis of SPANI by laccase, hinting that pH fine-tuning could improve yields, alongside the concurrent creation of azobenzene derivatives.
Synthesis and characterization of gold(I) thiolate derivatives and bimetallic complexes for HIV inhibition
Authors: Adokoh Christian K. , Boadu Akwasi , Asiamah Isaac , Agoni Clement
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a significant global health concern, with a reported high infection rate of 38.4 million cases globally; an estimated 2 million new infections and approximately 700,000 HIV/AIDS-related deaths were reported in 2021. Despite the advent of anti-retroviral therapy (ART), HIV/AIDS persists as a chronic disease. To combat this, several studies focus on developing inhibitors targeting various stages of the HIV infection cycle, including HIV-1 protease. This study aims to synthesize and characterize novel glyco diphenylphosphino metal complexes with potential HIV inhibitory properties.

Method: A series of new gold(I) thiolate derivatives and three bimetallic complexes, incorporating amino phosphines and thiocarbohydrate as auxiliary ligands, were synthesized using procedures described by Jiang, et al. (2009) andCoetzee et al. (2007). Structural elucidation and purity assessment of the synthesized compounds (1–11) were conducted using micro-analysis, NMR, and infrared spectrometry.

Results and Discussion: Using molecular modeling techniques, three of the metal complexes were identified as potential HIV protease inhibitors, exhibiting strong binding affinity interactions with binding pocket residues. These inhibitors demonstrated an ability to inhibit the flexibility of the flap regions of the HIV protease, similar to the known HIV protease inhibitor, darunavir. This study sheds light on the promising avenues for the development of novel therapeutic agents against HIV/AIDS.
Novel metabolite madeirone and neomarinone extracted from Streptomyces aculeoletus as marine antibiofilm and antifouling agents
Authors: Wissner Julian L. , Almeida Joana R. , Grilo Inês R. , Oliveira Jhenifer F. , Brízida Carolina , Escobedo-Hinojosa Wendy , Pissaridou Panayiota , Vasquez Marlen I. , Cunha Isabel , Sobral Rita G. , Vasconcelos Vítor , Gaudêncio Susana P.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Biofouling poses a significant economic threat to various marine industries, leading to financial losses that can reach billions of euros annually. This study highlights the urgent need for effective alternatives to traditional antifouling agents, particularly following the global ban on organotin compounds.

Material and methods:Streptomyces aculeolatus PTM-346 was isolated from sediment samples on the shores of the Madeira Archipelago, Portugal. The crude extract was fractionated using silica flash chromatography and preparative HPLC, resulting in two isolated marinone compounds: madeirone (1), a novel marinone derivative discovered in this study, and neomarinone (2). The antifouling activities of these compounds were tested against five marine bacterial species and the larvae of the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. Additionally, in silico and in vivo environmental toxicity evaluations of madeirone (1) and neomarinone (2) were conducted.

Results: Madeirone (1) demonstrated significant antibiofilm efficacy, inhibiting Phaeobacter inhibens by up to 66%, Marinobacter hydrocarbonoclasticus by up to 60%, and Cobetia marina by up to 40%. Neomarinone (2) also exhibited substantial antibiofilm activity, with inhibition rates of up to 41% against P. inhibens, 40% against Pseudo-oceanicola batsensis, 56% against M. hydrocarbonoclasticus, 46% against C. marina, and 40% against Micrococcus luteus. The growth inhibition activity at the same concentrations of these compounds remained below 20% for the respective bacteria, highlighting their effectiveness as potent antibiofilm agents without significantly affecting bacterial viability. Additionally, both compounds showed potent effects against the settlement of Mytilus galloprovincialis larvae, with EC50 values of 1.76 µg/mL and 0.12 µg/mL for compounds (1) and (2), respectively, without impairing the viability of the targeted macrofouling species. In silico toxicity predictions and in vivo toxicity assays both support their potential for further development as antifouling agents.

Conclusion: The newly discovered metabolite madeirone (1) and neomarinone (2) effectively inhibit both micro- and macrofouling. This distinct capability sets them apart from existing commercial antifouling agents and positions them as promising candidates for biofouling prevention. Consequently, these compounds represent a viable and environmentally friendly alternative for incorporation into paints, primers, varnishes, and sealants, offering significant advantages over traditional copper-based compounds.
RT-RPA-PfAgo detection platform for one-tube simultaneous typing diagnosis of human respiratory syncytial virus
Authors: Liao Jia-Yu , Feng Xue-Yong , Zhang Jie-Xiu , Yang Tian-Dan , Zhan Min-Xuan , Zeng Yong-Mei , Huang Wei-Yi , Lian Hao-Bin , Ke Lin , Cai Si-Si , Zhang Nan-Fei , Fang Jin-Wen , Cai Xiao-Ying , Chen Jun-Duo , Lin Guang-Yu , Lin Li-Yun , Chen Wei-Zhong , Liu Yu-Yan , Huang Fei-Fei , Lin Chuang-Xing , Lin Min
Published: July 2024

Human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) is the most prevalent pathogen contributing to acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) in infants and young children and can lead to significant financial and medical costs. Here, we developed a simultaneous, dual-gene and ultrasensitive detection system for typing HRSV within 60 minutes that needs only minimum laboratory support. Briefly, multiplex integrating reverse transcription-recombinase polymerase amplification (RT-RPA) was performed with viral RNA extracted from nasopharyngeal swabs as a template for the amplification of the specific regions of subtypes A (HRSVA) and B (HRSVB) of HRSV. Next, the Pyrococcus furiosus Argonaute (PfAgo) protein utilizes small 5’-phosphorylated DNA guides to cleave target sequences and produce fluorophore signals (FAM and ROX). Compared with the traditional gold standard (RT-qPCR) and direct immunofluorescence assay (DFA), this method has the additional advantages of easy operation, efficiency and sensitivity, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1 copy/μL. In terms of clinical sample validation, the diagnostic accuracy of the method for determining the HRSVA and HRSVB infection was greater than 95%. This technique provides a reliable point-of-care (POC) testing for the diagnosis of HRSV-induced ARTI in children and for outbreak management, especially in resource-limited settings.
Evaluation of the effect of kidney transplantation on left ventricular myocardial work by noninvasive pressure-strain loops
Authors: Han Zhengyang , Wang Lingyun , Wang Honghu , He Hongying , Song Yi , Wang Menghe , Zhao Na , Chen Zhengguang , Sun Zhenxing , Zhang Shan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Kidney transplantation (KT) has the potential to reverse the cardiac changes caused by end-stage renal disease, and it may be inaccurate to analysis the left ventricular function by conventional echocardiography due to afterload. This study aimed to investigate the utility of pressure strain loops (PSLs) in evaluating left ventricular performance in patients underwent KT.

Methods

We enrolled 60 patients with end-stage renal disease who underwent KT between January 2022 and July 2023, and 60 healthy controls with a similar distribution of gender and age to the patients. All participants underwent conventional echocardiography and three-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (3D-STE). Long axis, short axis, and four cavity images were collected and cardiac parameters were measured. The echocardiographic changes of cardiac structure and function of all patients before KT and about 12 months after KT were recorded. Left ventricular myocardial work parameters were acquired by PSLs, including the global work index (GWI), global constructive work (GCW), global wasted work (GWW), global work efficiency (GWE) and global longitudinal strain (GLS). In addition, the correlation between PSLs and clinical data were explored.

Results

Compared with controls, the conventional echocardiographic parameters, myocardial function indicators GWI and GCW appeared no difference in post-KT group, while the GWE and GLS decreased (p < 0.05), and the GWW increased (p < 0.05). Compared with pre-KT, the GLS, GWI, GCW and GWE increased in post-KT group, while the GWW decreased (all p < 0.05). The above indicators were correlated with left ventricular GLS and left ventricular ejection fraction.

Conclusion

PSLs were more sensitive than traditional echocardiographic indicators in detecting changes in myocardial work and predicting left ventricular myocardial damage. This indicator could quantitatively evaluate myocardial work and provide a new and reliable non-invasive reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment of patients underwent KT.
Seven psychiatric traits and the risk of increased carotid intima-media thickness: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: He Kewan , Ying Jiajun , Yang Fangkun , Hu Teng , Du Yuewu
Published: July 2024

Background

Numerous observational studies have suggested an association between psychiatric traits and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT). However, whether these associations have a causal relationship remains unknown, largely due to issues of reverse causality and potential confounders. This study aims to elucidate the potential causal role of psychiatric traits in the risk of arterial injury as measured by cIMT.

Methods

We utilized instrumental variables for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, n = 226,534), bipolar disorder (n = 353,899), major depressive disorder (n = 142,646), post-traumatic stress disorder (n = 174,494), obsessive-compulsive disorder (n = 9,725), autism spectrum disorder (n = 173,773), and anxiety disease (n = 17,310), derived from the largest corresponding genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Summary statistics for cIMT associations were obtained from a meta-analysis combining GWAS data from the Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology consortia (n = 71,128) and the UK Biobank study (n = 45,185). The inverse-variance weighted method served as the primary analytical tool, supplemented by additional statistical methods in the secondary analyses to corroborate the findings. Adjustments were made according to the Bonferroni correction threshold.

Results

The Mendelian randomization analyses indicated a suggestive causal link between genetically predicted ADHD and cIMT (beta = 0.05; 95% confidence interval, 0.01–0.09; p = 0.018). Sensitivity analyses largely concurred with this finding. However, no significant associations were found between other psychiatric traits and cIMT.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into the risk effect of ADHD on cIMT, suggesting that arteriopathy and potential associated complications should be considered during the treatment and monitoring of patients with ADHD.
Association between homocysteine levels and hyperlipidemia prevalence as well as all-cause mortality of hyperlipidemia patients in the US population: results from NHANES database
Authors: Wei Jia , Yang Qiang , Wang Xiaofang , He Xin , Zhu Wenjing , Lin Lin , Liu Chang , Zhu Canzhan , Zhang Mingjuan
Published: July 2024

Objective

Several studies have investigated the correlation between blood lipids and homocysteine, but no clear conclusions have been defined yet. Therefore, we utilized data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to explore the correlation between serum homocysteine (Hcy) levels and hyperlipidemia, which is determined by the levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TG). We believe this study can provide a scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of lipid abnormalities.

Methods

The data used in this study were sourced from NHANES 1999–2006, linked with National Death Index mortality data from January 1999 to December 2019. We employed logistic regression to assess the associations between Hcy levels and the presence of hyperlipidemia. Additionally, survival analysis using Kaplan-Meier estimate and Cox proportional hazards regression model was conducted to evaluate the associations between Hcy levels and all-cause mortality in the hyperlipidemia population.

Results

(1) A total of 13,661 subjects were included in the study. There were statistically significant differences in Hcy levels across different groups based on gender, age, race, marital status, education level, hypertension status, diabetes status, and Body Mass Index (BMI) (P < 0.05). (2) In the overall population, hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) was associated with an increased risk of high-TC hyperlipidemia (P < 0.05). Subgroup analysis by gender showed that HHcy in females was associated with an increased risk of dyslipidemia (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.07–1.59, P < 0.05) and high-LDL-C hyperlipidemia (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.00–1.68, P < 0.05). In addition, subgroup analysis by age revealed that HHcy in middle-aged people was associated with an increased risk of high-TC hyperlipidemia (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.03–1.41, P < 0.05) and high-LDL-C hyperlipidemia (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.06–1.43, P < 0.05). (3) HHcy was consistently associated with an increased mortality risk in the hyperlipidemia population (HR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.35–1.65, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

There was positive correlation between Hcy levels and the presence of hyperlipidemia. In the overall population, HHcy was associated with an increased risk of high-TC hyperlipidemia. Among females, HHcy is linked to an increased risk of dyslipidemia and high-LDL-C hyperlipidemia. In middle-aged people, HHcy was associated with an elevated risk of high-TC hyperlipidemia and high-LDL-C hyperlipidemia. In addition, HHcy increased the all-cause mortality rate in hyperlipidemia patients.
New insights into the evolution and formation mechanism of SB5 fault: a case study from the Fuman Oilfield, Tarim basin, NW China
Authors: Song Xingguo , Chen Shi , Zhang Yintao , Xie Zhou , Neng Yuan , Liang Xinxin , Kang Pengfei , Yang Minghui , Chen Ping
Published: July 2024

The Shunbei 5 (SB5) strike-slip fault, situated in the central Tarim basin, is distinguished by its considerable length, significant variations in planar orientation, and intricate multi-stage tectonic evolution. This study delves into the geometric, kinematic, and dynamic features of both the southern and northern parts of the SB5 fault, utilizing the latest seismic data from the Fuman Oilfield, and examines the factors influencing the fault’s planar deflection. The fault can be categorized into three structural deformation layers based on lithological features and fault features: the deep structural deformation layer (below TЄ3), characterized by basement rifting and limited strike-slip activity; the middle structural deformation layer (TЄ3-TO3), marked by vigorous strike-slip movements and the dominance of flower structures; and the shallow structural deformation layer (TO3-TP), featuring echelon-type normal faults and boundary graben faults, specifically in the southern SB5 fault. The fault activity is more pronounced in its southern SB5 fault compared to the northern, with the weakest activity at the TЄ3 interface and the peak at the TO3 interface. The southern SB5 fault transitions to sinistral slip at the TO3 interface, while the northern SB5 fault shifts from dextral to sinistral slip at the TC interface, highlighting variable slip directions across different interfaces. Rifts are extensively distributed within the Precambrian basement along the SB5 fault. The initial strike-slip fault rupture, which is primarily localized in these areas, exerts a significant influence on the formation of the S-shaped fault plane. This process involves four distinct evolution stages: the embryonic stage of strike-slip activity during the Middle-Late Cambrian; the intense strike-slip fault activity stage during the Middle-Late Ordovician; the reactivation stage of deep strike-slip fault in the Silurian; and the connection and reactivation stage during the Devonian-Carboniferous.
Three-dimensional numerical simulation of factors affecting surface cracking in double-layer rock mass
Authors: Xia Yingjie , Xue Xuan , Zhang Qi , Chen Jian , Yang Hai
Published: July 2024

Stratified rock masses comprise various rocks with different thicknesses, lithologies, and compositions. They exhibit unique cracking morphology and failure modes when subjected to external loads. Understanding and mastering the fracture morphology and failure laws of stratified rock masses under three-dimensional mechanical conditions is crucial for researching disasters in underground engineering geology. This paper presents a three-dimensional double-layer rock mass model established using the numerical calculation method based on mesoscopic statistical damage mechanics. The model simulates the cracking mode of the rock surface under biaxial tensile conditions. The simulation results are quantified using PCAS software. Crack indexes, such as the number of cracked blocks, average cracked block area, and surface crack rate, are used to evaluate the degree of influence of different factors on the cracking of the rock surface layer. The results indicate that the degree of surface crack development varies linearly with the degree of homogeneity (m). Additionally, the layer thickness ratio (η) is positively correlated with the average fragmentation area, and the two are logarithmic. Regardless of the model scale, the average circumference of each block is approximately equal to the model side length. The model exhibits the highest degree of crack development when the loads in the x and y directions are equal. Moreover, the degree of crack development in the model is also influenced by the loading per step, and the two are proportional.
Reputational crisis at a Chilean University, resulting from a post on social media X (Twitter) about the controversial theses in the School of Philosophy and Humanities
Authors: Amigo-López Thierry , Rojas-Gomez Diana
Published: July 2024

Due to the prominence of social networks since the second decade of the twenty-first century, online reputation has become essential for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The University of Chile, a public institution, faced a reputational communication crisis at the end of 2022 due to the disclosure on X (formerly Twitter) of two theses that relativized the concept of pedophilia. This situation raised questions about ethical integrity and permissiveness in academic research at the HEI. The research employed a qualitative methodological approach, complemented by descriptive quantitative data. The study unfolded in two distinct phases. Initially, a comprehensive review of comments on X related to the controversy was conducted. Subsequently, the comments were systematically compiled and organized in a table, and the content was downloaded from the Export Comments platform. From a pool of 4,680 messages, a representative sample of 500 comments was selected. In the second phase, the comments were meticulously categorized using the qualitative analysis tool Atlas.ti23, providing a robust and systematic approach to the research. The results showed high disapproval by X users regarding the content of the theses and the university's communication management. However, this did not directly alter the institutional reputation of the university, although it did influence the external public's perception of the professors and the organization's internal environment. The research concludes that the comments in X revealed a scarce presence of protocols on the part of the university for evaluating academic projects in the humanities.
“Struggling like fish out of water”: a qualitative case study of Chinese international students’ acculturative stress in the UK
Authors: Jiang Xiaoming , Xiao ZhiMin
Published: July 2024

This research aims to explore the acculturative stressors experienced by Chinese international students in the UK and investigates their views on intercultural mentoring programs offered at UK universities. To achieve these objectives, the study utilizes primarily qualitative data gathered from 12 semi-structured interviews, exploring Chinese international students’ wellbeing and their perceptions about intercultural mentoring programs. The findings indicate that the wellbeing of Chinese international students was influenced by a range of macro and micro acculturative stressors, including academic integration, language barriers, social integration, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Contrary to expectations, the study reveals that perceived cultural differences between China and the UK, as well as homesickness, were not the main sources of stress for Chinese international students. Regarding intercultural mentoring programs, this research finds that their introduction by UK universities represents a positive effort to enhance intercultural competence and overall wellbeing of international students. Nevertheless, the research has identified four main issues requiring consideration: mentor qualifications, limited mentor availability, effective mentor-mentee pairing, and ethical challenges.
A review of peer-to-peer transaction loss and blockchain: challenges and drivers in the roadmap to a low-carbon future
Authors: P Maya , Salam P. Abdul
Published: July 2024

Adapting to horizontal market structures faces several drivers and challenges in the context of sustainable energy transition. The inherently decentralized nature qualifies blockchain technology as the major technical driver in the transition to peer-to-peer (P2P) energy market models. One major technical challenge encountered in the transition process is the active power loss associated with transactions, which can cause network congestion and economic loss. A review of existing research on the P2P transaction active power loss problem, examining the potential role of blockchain and the consequent additional costs incurred by blockchain transactions, is presented in this article. Consolidating major points and guiding observations for future research are provided to address the challenges while adapting to the potential driving blockchain technology. A conceptual peer-to-peer trading framework that considers blockchain transaction cost and active power loss compensation is also presented.
Optimal schedule for virtual power plants based on price forecasting and secant line search aided sparrow searching algorithm
Authors: Wu Hongbo , Feng Bo , Yang Peng , Shen Hongtao , Ma Hao , Kong Weile , Peng Xintong
Published: July 2024

With a growing focus on the environment, the power system is evolving into a cleaner and more efficient energy supply infrastructure. Photovoltaic (PV) and storage are key assets for the power industry’s shift to sustainable energy. PV generation has zero carbon emission, and the integration of a substantial number of PV units is fundamentally important to decarbonize the power system. However, it also poses challenges in terms of voltage stability and uncertainty. Besides, the daily load and real-time price are also uncertain. As a prosumer, energy storage demonstrates the capacity to enhance accommodation and stability. The adoption of Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) emerges as a promising strategy to address these challenges, which allows the coordinated orchestration of PV systems and storage to participate power dispatch as a virtual unit. It further augments the flexibility of the power distribution system (PDS). To maximize the profit of VPP, a data-driven price forecasting method is proposed to extract useful information from historical datasets based on a novel LSTM-Transformer-combined neural network. Then, an improved sparrow searching algorithm (SSA) is proposed to schedule VPPs by combining the secant line search strategy. The numerical results, obtained from testing the model on IEEE 13-node and 141-node distribution systems, demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed model and methodology.