bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding the Question–Persuade–Refer (QPR) Evidence Base: Youth Suicide Prevention among the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians
Authors: Bartkowski John P. , Klee Katherine , Xu Xiaohe
Published: April 2024

Youth suicide risks have been on the rise or persistently elevated for decades, and Native American communities are especially vulnerable. This study provides a promising framework for suicide prevention among underserved populations in the U.S., especially Native American communities in states lacking strong suicide prevention supports. Our investigation reports the evaluation results of the Question–Persuade–Refer (QPR) gatekeeper training program, a key component of the SAMHSA-funded Choctaw Youth Resilience Initiative (CYRI) implemented by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians (MBCI). QPR trains adult gatekeepers to identify youth at risk of suicide and refer them to certified mental health service providers. Standardized QPR pre-test and post-test training surveys were administered at in-person trainings delivered to youth-serving MBCI organization leaders and staff. Statistical analyses of all survey items indicate that QPR gatekeeper trainings significantly enhanced the knowledge of prevention practices and risk identification skills for the MBCI trainees. The robust evidence of positive changes revealed in this study suggests that QPR can be an effective suicide prevention program for underserved minority communities, especially Native American populations in rural states where suicide is a persistent and leading cause of mortality.
The Relationship between Distress Tolerance and Spiritual Well-Being towards ARV Therapy Adherence in People Living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Saputra Ramal , Waluyo Agung , Edison Chiyar
Published: April 2024

A crucial factor in the success of treatment for patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is adherence to antiretroviral (ARV) therapy among People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Adherence issues remain a persisting problem with multifaceted causes. There are many studies on variables related to ARV therapy adherence, but no study has been found on spiritual well-being and distress tolerance in ARV therapy adherence. This study aims to determine the relationship between distress tolerance and spiritual well-being on adherence to ARV therapy in PLWHA. This research used a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The sample collection process followed a consecutive sampling technique, with data gathered from 129 participants at the South Lampung Regional General Hospital located in Indonesia. Data collection was conducted using three questionnaires administered by the interviewer, which assessed distress tolerance using the Miller–Smith Rating Scale For Stress Tolerance (MSRS-ST), evaluated spiritual Well-Being using the Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS), and gauged ARV therapy adherence using the Medication Adherence Rating Scale (MARS). Data analysis using a simple logistic regression with a 95% confidence interval (CI) showed a significant relationship between distress tolerance (p-value 0.002) and spiritual well-being (p-value 0.036) towards ARV therapy adherence in PLWHA. The results of multiple logistic regression yielded distress tolerance as the most dominant and influential variable in this research. Distress tolerance and spiritual well-being impact adherence to ARV therapy in PLWHA. Suggestions for healthcare services should consider these factors to decrease the risk of non-adherence to therapy and inadvertently heighten mortality risk.
Argemone ochroleuca Phytochemicals and Allelopathic Effect of Their Extracts on Germination of Soybean
Authors: Mlombo Nezelo T. , Dube Zakheleni P. , Makhubu Fikile N. , Nxumalo Hellen
Published: April 2024

Soybean is a high-value food source, and the invasive weeds Mexican prickly poppy (Argemone ochroleuca) could release allelochemicals that inhibit the growth of this crop. The impact of A. ochroleuca on the germination and growth of soybean is not well documented. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the TLC profiles of different extracts of A. ochroleuca and assess the effects of extracts on the germination of soybean seeds. Shoots and roots of A. ochroleuca were weighed and 100 g of each was separately extracted with 1000 mL deionized water, hexane or acetone. Ten concentrations of water extracts ranging from 10 to 100 mL per 100 mL of deionized water and three concentrations of acetone and hexane extracts ranging from 2.5 to 7.5 g/L were separately used for seed germination bioassays. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) analysis was used to compare the chemical profiles in the shoot and root water, and in the hexane and acetone extracts of A. ochroleuca. The highest reduction was recorded from the water extract, at 100%. The TLC profiling of A. ochroleuca addressed different classes of compounds, including alkaloids, phenolic acids and flavanoids. There is, however, a need to identify the most active phytochemicals in the suppression of germination.
Early Rectal Cancer and Local Excision: A Narrative Review
Authors: Binda Cecilia , Secco Matteo , Tuccillo Luigi , Coluccio Chiara , Liverani Elisa , Jung Carlo Felix Maria , Fabbri Carlo , Gibiino Giulia
Published: April 2024

A rise in the incidence of early rectal cancer consequent to bowel-screening programs around the world and an increase in the incidence in young adults has led to a growing interest in organ-sparing treatment options. The rectum, being the most distal portion of the large intestine, is a fertile ground for local excision techniques performed with endoscopic or surgical techniques. Moreover, the advancement in endoscopic optical evaluation and the better definition of imaging techniques allow for a more precise local staging of early rectal cancer. Although the local treatment of early rectal cancer seems promising, in clinical practice, a significant number of patients who could benefit from local excision techniques undergo total mesorectal excision (TME) as the first approach. All relevant prospective clinical trials were identified through a computer-assisted search of the PubMed, EMBASE, and Medline databases until January 2024. This review is dedicated to endoscopic and surgical local excision in the treatment of early rectal cancer and highlights its possible role in current and future clinical practice, taking into account surgical completion techniques and chemoradiotherapy.
Management of Post-Operative Crohn’s Disease: Knowns and Unknowns
Authors: Spertino Matteo , Gabbiadini Roberto , Dal Buono Arianna , Busacca Anita , Franchellucci Gianluca , Migliorisi Giulia , Repici Alessandro , Spinelli Antonino , Bezzio Cristina , Armuzzi Alessandro
Published: April 2024

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract characterized by relapsing–remission phases. CD often requires surgical intervention during its course, mainly ileo-cecal/ileo-colonic resection. However, surgery in CD is not curative and post-operative recurrence (POR) can happen. The management of CD after surgery presents challenges. Ensuring timely, effective, and safe therapy to prevent POR is essential but difficult, considering that approximately 20–30% of subjects may not experience endoscopic POR and that 40–50% will only exhibit intermediate lesions, which carry a low risk of mid- and long-term clinical and surgical POR. Currently, there are two accepted intervention strategies: early post-operative prophylactic therapy (systematically or based on the patient’s risk of recurrence) or starting therapy after confirming endoscopic POR 6–12 months after surgery (endoscopy-driven prophylactic therapy). The risk of overtreatment lies in exposing patients to undesired adverse events, along with the costs associated with medications. Conversely, undertreatment may lead to missed opportunities to prevent bowel damage and the necessity for additional surgery. This article aims to perform a comprehensive review regarding the optimal strategy to reduce the risk of POR in CD patients and the current therapeutic options.
Thermal Effects on Dental Pulp during Laser-Assisted Bleaching Procedures with Diode Lasers in a Clinical Study
Authors: Petersen Marlene , Braun Andreas , Franzen Rene
Published: April 2024

Background In the current cosmetics industry, bleaching is often associated with lasers. However, such treatment also harbors risks. Tooth death is observed at pulpal temperature increases ≥5.6 °C. Therefore, it seems important to investigate the effects of using different lasers. The aim of this study was to determine pulpal temperature increases at different laser parameters during bleaching by modeling a realistic environment and to compare the temperature recording using a thermocouple and thermal camera. The authors assumed that there are laser settings for the lasers used at which the pulpal temperature increases are <5.6 °C and that the temperature recordings with thermocouples and thermal cameras differ only minimally. Methods Human teeth were used, which were extracted for dental reasons. During experiment, teeth were bleached conventionally and by laser activation at 940 nm, 445 nm, and 970 nm. The temperature in the pulp was recorded using thermocouples. In a second setup, longitudinally halved teeth were bleached, while the temperature in the pulp was recorded with a thermocouple and thermal camera. Descriptive statistics were used. The significance level is 0.05. Results In addition to conventional bleaching, temperature increases <5.6 °C were observed for bleaching at 940 nm 1.5 W, at 445 nm 0.3 W, and at 970 nm 0.5 W. For bleaching procedures using 940 nm 7 W, 940 nm 2 W, 445 nm 0.5 W, and 970 nm 1 W, the temperature increase was ≥5.6 °C. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in the maximum temperature increases (°C) between all groups. Temperature recordings using a thermocouple and thermal camera differed by about 2.3 °C. The working hypotheses were confirmed. Conclusion With laser bleaching, attention must be paid to the type of laser, its power, and the time in order to avoid excessive overheating of the dental pulp.
The Role of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in the Differential Diagnosis of Malignant and Benign Subpleural Lung Lesions
Authors: Boccatonda Andrea , Guagnano Maria Teresa , D’Ardes Damiano , Cipollone Francesco , Vetrugno Luigi , Schiavone Cosima , Piscaglia Fabio , Serra Carla
Published: April 2024

Background: The application of transthoracic contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to the study of peripheral lung lesions is still a topic of debate. The main objective of this review was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of CEUS in the diagnosis of malignant subpleural pulmonary consolidations and, therefore, differentiate them from benign ones. Methods: Papers published before December 2023 were detected through a search of PubMed, Cochrane library, and Embase. The pooled specificity and sensitivity, summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were used. Results: CEUS is characterized by a pooled sensitivity of 0.95 (95% CI: 0.93–0.97) and a pooled specificity of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.90–0.95) in differentiating benign and malignant subpleural lung diseases; the AUC of SROC was 0.97. Homogeneous CE was characterized by a pooled sensitivity of 0.43 (95% CI: 0.40–0.45) and the pooled specificity of 0.49 (95% CI: 0.46–0.52). Non-homogeneous CE displayed a pooled sensitivity of 0.57 (95% CI: 0.55–0.60) and a pooled specificity of 0.51 (95% CI: 0.48–0.54). The lack of CE displayed a pooled sensitivity of 0.01 (95% CI: 0.00–0.06) and a pooled specificity of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.64–0.85). Marked CE displayed a pooled sensitivity of 0.41 (95% CI: 0.37–0.44) and a pooled specificity of 0.54 (95% CI: 0.50–0.58). Non-marked CE displayed a pooled sensitivity of 0.59 (95% CI: 0.56–0.63) and a pooled specificity of 0.46 (95% CI: 0.42–0.50). The early AT displayed a pooled sensitivity of 0.04 (95% CI: 0.02–0.08) and a pooled specificity of 0.83 (95% CI: 0.77–0.87). The early wash out displayed a pooled sensitivity of 0.61 (95% CI: 0.48–0.72) and a pooled specificity of 0.98 (95% CI: 0.92–1.00). The delayed wash out displayed a pooled sensitivity of 0.15 (95% CI: 0.10–0.20) and a pooled specificity of 0.69 (95% CI: 0.62–0.75). Conclusions: CEUS is characterized by excellent diagnostic accuracy for the diagnosis of the malignancy of subpleural lung lesions. By separately analyzing the CEUS findings, the diagnostic accuracy values are considerably lower and not significant in some cases. The simultaneous evaluation of multiple CEUS features allows us to reach an excellent diagnostic accuracy. Non-homogeneous CE with early wash out are the most indicative features of malignancy of a lung lesion.
Computer-Aided Optimisation in Additive Manufacturing Processes: A State of the Art Survey
Authors: Henriksen Tanja Emilie , Brustad Tanita Fossli , Dalmo Rune , Pedersen Aleksander
Published: April 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a field with both industrial and academic significance. Computer-aided optimisation has brought advances to this field over the years, but challenges and areas of improvement still remain. Design to execution inaccuracies, void formation, material anisotropy, and surface quality are examples of remaining challenges. These challenges can be improved via some of the trending optimisation topics, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML); STL correction, replacement, or removal; slicing algorithms; and simulations. This paper reviews AM and its history with a special focus on the printing process and how it can be optimised using computer software. The most important new contribution is a survey of the present challenges connected with the prevailing optimisation topics. This can be seen as a foundation for future research. In addition, we suggest how certain challenges can be improved and show how such changes affect the printing process.
Use and Function of Gestures in Persuasive Business Communication: A Contrastive Study between Spanish and English
Authors: Cestero Mancera Ana M. , Díez-Prados Mercedes
Published: April 2024

This study sheds light on the types and frequencies of kinesic signs used in business pitches by entrepreneurs in Spanish and English, as well as the functions these nonverbal signs fulfil to contribute to the persuasiveness of their presentations. The corpus consists of 20 pitches (10 in each language) from two equivalent TV programs (the reality shows Dragons’ Den and Tu Oportunidad from the UK and Spain, respectively). A specific method of analysis previously developed by Cestero Mancera is used to identify signs in an inductive, qualitative way that allows us to apply a quantitative methodology to distinguish among the different subpopulations of the subjects studied (male and female presenters in Spanish and English presentations). The results show that facial gesturing is the most frequent type used by all presenters, although speakers of each language seem to have diverse preferences for the rest of the signs (head, hand and other body gestures). Kinesic signs apparently display the same pragmatic functions in Spanish and English, although they are more frequently used in Spanish (63.78% of the 784 signs found) than English (36.22%). Gender may be considered an influential factor when observed within the same language but not as a variable; furthermore, gender preferences are reversed when associated with language (i.e., female Spanish presentations display the most signs, while English presentations by females display the least; male presentations are in between these, there being more in Spanish than in English presentations).
Autonomous Vehicle Decision and Control through Reinforcement Learning with Traffic Flow Randomization
Authors: Lin Yuan , Xie Antai , Liu Xiao
Published: April 2024

Most of the current studies on autonomous vehicle decision-making and control based on reinforcement learning are conducted in simulated environments. The training and testing of these studies are carried out under the condition of rule-based microscopic traffic flow, with little consideration regarding migrating them to real or near-real environments. This may lead to performance degradation when the trained model is tested in more realistic traffic scenes. In this study, we propose a method to randomize the driving behavior of surrounding vehicles by randomizing certain parameters of the car-following and lane-changing models of rule-based microscopic traffic flow. We trained policies with deep reinforcement learning algorithms under the domain-randomized rule-based microscopic traffic flow in freeway and merging scenes and then tested them separately in rule-based and high-fidelity microscopic traffic flows. The results indicate that the policies trained under domain-randomized traffic flow have significantly better success rates and episodic rewards compared to those trained under non-randomized traffic flow.
Randomised, Placebo-Controlled Investigation of the Impact of Probiotic Consumption on Gut Microbiota Diversity and the Faecal Metabolome in Seniors
Authors: van Zanten Gabriella C. , Madsen Anne Lundager , Yde Christian C. , Krych Lukasz , Yeung Nicolas , Saarinen Markku T. , Kot Witold , Jensen Henrik Max , Rasmussen Morten A. , Ouwehand Arthur C. , Nielsen Dennis S.
Published: April 2024

Aging has been associated with a changed composition and function of the gut microbiota (GM). Here, we investigate the effects of the multi-strain probiotic HOWARU® Restore on GM composition and function in seniors. Ninety-eight healthy adult volunteers aged ≥75 years were enrolled in a randomised, double-blinded intervention (NCT02207140), where they received HOWARU Restore (1010 CFU) or the placebo daily for 24 weeks, with 45 volunteers from each group completing the intervention. Questionnaires monitoring the effects on gastro-intestinal discomfort and bowel movements were collected. Faecal samples for GM characterisation (qPCR, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing) and metabolomics (GC-FID, 1H NMR) were collected at the baseline and after 24 weeks. In the probiotic group, self-reported gastro-intestinal discomfort in the form of flatulence was significantly decreased during the intervention. At the baseline, 151 ‘core species’ (present in ≥95% of samples) were identified. Most core species belonged to the Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae families. Neither alpha diversity nor beta diversity or faecal metabolites was affected by probiotic intake. On the contrary, we observed high intra-individual GM stability, with ‘individual’ accounting for 72–75% of variation. In conclusion, 24 weeks of HOWARU Restore intake reduced gastro-intestinal discomfort in the form of flatulence in healthy seniors without significantly influencing GM composition or activity.
Insights on Pseudomonas aeruginosa Carbohydrate Binding from Profiles of Cystic Fibrosis Isolates Using Multivalent Fluorescent Glycopolymers Bearing Pendant Monosaccharides
Authors: Chance Deborah L. , Wang Wei , Waters James K. , Mawhinney Thomas P.
Published: April 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa contributes to frequent, persistent, and, often, polymicrobial respiratory tract infections for individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF). Chronic CF infections lead to bronchiectasis and a shortened lifespan. P. aeruginosa expresses numerous adhesins, including lectins known to bind the epithelial cell and mucin glycoconjugates. Blocking carbohydrate-mediated host–pathogen and intra-biofilm interactions critical to the initiation and perpetuation of colonization offer promise as anti-infective treatment strategies. To inform anti-adhesion therapies, we profiled the monosaccharide binding of P. aeruginosa from CF and non-CF sources, and assessed whether specific bacterial phenotypic characteristics affected carbohydrate-binding patterns. Focusing at the cellular level, microscopic and spectrofluorometric tools permitted the solution-phase analysis of P. aeruginosa binding to a panel of fluorescent glycopolymers possessing distinct pendant monosaccharides. All P. aeruginosa demonstrated significant binding to glycopolymers specific for α-D-galactose, β-D-N-acetylgalactosamine, and β-D-galactose-3-sulfate. In each culture, a small subpopulation accounted for the binding. The carbohydrate anomeric configuration and sulfate ester presence markedly influenced binding. While this opportunistic pathogen from CF hosts presented with various colony morphologies and physiological activities, no phenotypic, physiological, or structural feature predicted enhanced or diminished monosaccharide binding. Important to anti-adhesive therapeutic strategies, these findings suggest that, regardless of phenotype or clinical source, P. aeruginosa maintain a small subpopulation that may readily associate with specific configurations of specific monosaccharides. This report provides insights into whole-cell P. aeruginosa carbohydrate-binding profiles and into the context within which successful anti-adhesive and/or anti-virulence anti-infective agents for CF must contend.
Critical Temperature and Critical Current Enhancement in Arrays of Josephson Junctions: A Ginzburg–Landau Perspective
Authors: Tomei Elena , Bizzi Riccardo , Merlo Vittorio , Romeo Francesco , Salina Gaetano , Cirillo Matteo
Published: April 2024

The present investigation explores the spatial distribution of Cooper pair density in graph-shaped arrays of Josephson junctions using a Ginzburg–Landau approach. We specifically investigate double-comb structures and compare their properties with linear arrays as reference systems. Our findings reveal that the peculiar connectivity of the double-comb structure leads to spatial gradients in the order parameter, which can be readily detected through measurements of Josephson critical currents. We present experimental results which indicate the specific dependence of the order parameter on the branches of the graphs and are evidence of the theoretical predictions.
Influence of Shale Mineral Composition and Proppant Filling Patterns on Stress Sensitivity in Shale Reservoirs
Authors: Guo Huiying , Wang Ziqiang , Zhang Yuankai , Sun Yating , Liu Sai , Li Zhen , Liu Yubo , Yang Shenglai , Zhao Shuai
Published: April 2024

Shale reservoirs typically exhibit high density, necessitating the use of horizontal wells and hydraulic fracturing techniques for efficient extraction. Proppants are commonly employed in hydraulic fracturing to prevent crack closure. However, limited research has been conducted on the impact of shale mineral composition and proppant filling patterns on shale stress sensitivity. In this study, shale cylindrical core samples from two different lithologies in Jimusaer, Xinjiang in China were selected. The mineral composition and microscopic structures were tested, and a self-designed stress sensitivity testing system was employed to conduct stress sensitivity tests on natural cores and fractured cores with different proppant filling patterns. The experimental results indicate that the stress sensitivity of natural shale porous cores is weaker, with a stress sensitivity coefficient below 0.03, significantly lower than that of fractured cores. The shale mineral composition has a significant impact on stress sensitivity, with the stress sensitivity of clayey argillaceous shale cores, characterized by higher clay mineral content, being higher than that of sandy argillaceous shale, characterized by higher quartz mineral content. This pattern is also applicable to fractured cores filled with proppants, but the difference gradually diminishes with increased proppant concentration. The choice of large particles and high-concentration proppant bedding can enhance crack conductivity. Within the experimental range, the crack conductivity of 20–40 mesh quartz sand is more than three times that of 70–120 mesh quartz sand. At an effective stress of 60 MPa, the conductivity of cores with a proppant concentration of 2 kg/m2 is 3.61 times that of cores with a proppant concentration of 0.3 kg/m2. Under different particle size combinations of proppant filling patterns, the crack conductivity at the crack front with large-particle proppants is 6.21 times that of mixed bedding. This study provides valuable insights for the hydraulic fracturing design of shale reservoirs and optimization of production system parameters in subsequent stages.
Erosion Resistance of Casing with Resin and Metallic Coatings in Liquid–Solid Two-Phase Flow
Authors: Zhu Lixia , Luo Jinheng , Huang Chencheng , Zhou Lang , Li Lifeng , Li Yibo , Wang Zhiguo
Published: April 2024

Protective coatings are typically applied to enhance their resistance to corrosion. There is considerable research on the corrosion resistance of coated casings. However, few research studies have focused on the erosion resistance on coated casings. In this work, the erosion resistance of resin- and metallic-coated casings in liquid–solid two-phase fluids were investigated using a self-made erosion facility. The results show that the resin coating tends to peel off the material base in the form of brittle spalling or coating bulge in the high-speed sand-carrying liquid. Both resin and metallic coatings were broken through within 20 min in a liquid–solid two-phase flow environment. Compared to resin coatings, metallic coatings exhibit weaker erosion resistance in similar liquid–solid flow. Through the analysis of experimental results and fitted curves, empirical constants for materials and sand content influencing factors were determined using non-dimensional processing. The erosion prediction model of metallic coatings and resin coatings was established based on the ECRC/Zhang model with the change in flow rate, angle, and sand content. This research contributes to a better understanding of the erosion resistance performance of casings used in oil and gas fields, thereby contributing to potential improvements in their production.
Optimization of Anti-Skid and Noise Reduction Performance of Cement Concrete Pavement with Different Grooved and Dragged Textures
Authors: Yang Biyu , Yang Songli , Ye Zhoujing , Zhou Xiaohua , Wang Linbing
Published: April 2024

Cement concrete pavements are crucial to urban infrastructure, significantly influencing road safety and environmental sustainability with their anti-skid and noise reduction properties. However, while texturing techniques like transverse grooving have been widely adopted to enhance skid resistance, they may inadvertently increase road noise. This study addressed the critical need to optimize pavement textures to balance improved skid resistance with noise reduction. Tests were conducted to assess the influence of surface texture on skid resistance and noise, exploring the relationship between texture attributes and their performance in these areas. The investigation examined the effects of texture representation methods, mean profile depth, and the high-speed sideway force coefficient (SFC) on noise intensity and pavement skid resistance. The findings revealed that transverse grooves significantly improved the SFC, enhancing skid resistance. In contrast, longitudinal burlap drag, through its micro- and macro-texture adjustments, effectively reduced vibration frequencies between the tire and pavement, thus mitigating noise. Utilizing the TOPSIS multi-objective optimization framework, an optimization model for pavement textures was developed to augment skid resistance and noise reduction at varying speeds. The results indicated that at 60 km/h, an optimal balance of groove width, depth, and spacing yielded superior skid resistance with a minimal noise increase. At 80 km/h, increased groove spacing and depth were shown to effectively decrease noise while maintaining efficient water evacuation. The optimal pavement texture design must consider the specific context, including traffic volume, vehicle types, and operating speeds. This study provides essential guidance for optimizing urban cement concrete pavement textures, aiming to diminish traffic noise and bolster road safety.
Security Assessment of Industrial Control System Applying Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Ibrahim Mariam , Elhafiz Ruba
Published: April 2024

Industrial control systems are often used to assist and manage an industrial operation. These systems’ weaknesses in the various hierarchical structures of the system components and communication backbones make them vulnerable to cyberattacks that jeopardize their security. In this paper, the security of these systems is studied by employing a reinforcement learning extended attack graph to efficiently reveal the subsystems’ flaws. Specifically, an attack graph that mimics the environment is constructed for the system using the state–action–reward–state–action technique, in which the agent is regarded as the attacker. Attackers may cause the greatest amount of system damage with the fewest possible actions if they have the highest cumulative reward. The worst-case assault scheme with a total reward of 42.9 was successfully shown in the results, and the most badly affected subsystems were recognized.
“She Is the Seminary”: The Life and Ministry of Dr. Olive L. Clark (1894–1989), Canadian Fundamentalist Educator
Authors: Murray Taylor
Published: April 2024

This article explores the life and contributions of Dr. Olive L. Clark (1894–1989), a long-time faculty member at the fundamentalist Toronto Baptist Seminary (TBS). In the 1920s, Clark sided with the fundamentalists and became a vocal critic of the Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec. As the first person to receive a PhD in Classics from the University of Toronto, she was a gifted scholar. In 1928, she became one of the first faculty members at the newly-minted Toronto Baptist Seminary—operated by the prominent fundamentalist leader T. T. Shields—and remained there until her retirement thirty-eight years later. Through those years and even into retirement, she took an active role in the fundamentalist community by training pastors, publishing lesson plans and articles, speaking in various churches, and serving as co-editor of The Gospel Witness newspaper. In the process, she helped guide and shape the movement, both behind the scenes and in visible ways.
PM2.5 Extracts Induce INFγ-Independent Activation of CIITA, MHCII, and Increases Inflammation in Human Bronchial Epithelium
Authors: Jirau-Colón Héctor , Jiménez-Vélez Braulio D.
Published: April 2024

The capacity of particulate matter (PM) to enhance and stimulate the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators has been previously demonstrated in non-antigen-presenting cells (human bronchial epithelia). Nonetheless, many proposed mechanisms for this are extrapolated from known canonical molecular pathways. This work evaluates a possible mechanism for inflammatory exacerbation after exposure to PM2.5 (from Puerto Rico) and CuSO4, using human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) as a model. The induction of CIITA, MHCII genes, and various pro-inflammatory mediators was investigated. Among these, the phosphorylation of STAT1 Y701 was significantly induced after 4 h of PM2.5 exposure, concurrent with a slight increase in CIITA and HLA-DRα mRNA levels. INFγ mRNA levels remained low amidst exposure time, while IL-6 levels significantly increased at earlier times. IL-8 remained low, as expected from attenuation by IL-6 in the known INFγ-independent inflammation pathway. The effects of CuSO4 showed an increase in HLA-DRα expression after 8 h, an increase in STAT1 at 1 h, and RF1 at 8 h We hypothesize and show evidence that an inflammatory response due to PM2.5 extract exposure in human bronchial epithelia can be induced early via an alternate non-canonical pathway in the absence of INFγ.
Characterization of the Tissue and Strain-Specific Microbiota of Anopheles funestus Giles (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Chen Chia-Yu , Chan Wai-Yin , Ismail Arshad , Oliver Shüné V.
Published: April 2024

The mosquito microbiota is a critical determinant of mosquito life history. It is therefore a target for novel vector control strategies like paratransgenesis. However, the microbiota in Anopheles funestus, a major African malaria vector, is poorly characterized. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the overall bacterial landscape in the salivary glands, ovaries and midguts of three laboratory strains of An. funestus differing in insecticide-resistant phenotype by sequencing the V3–V4 hypervariable region of bacterial 16S rRNA genes. When examining alpha diversity, the salivary glands harbored significantly more bacteria in terms of species richness and evenness compared to ovaries and midguts. On the strain level, the insecticide-susceptible FANG strain had significantly lower bacterial diversity than the insecticide-resistant FUMOZ and FUMOZ-R strains. When looking at beta diversity, the compositions of microbiota between the three tissues as well as between the strains were statistically different. While there were common bacteria across all three tissues and strains of interest, each tissue and strain did exhibit differentially abundant bacterial genera. However, overall, the top five most abundant genera across all tissues and strains were Elizabethkingia, Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, Cedecea and Yersinia. The presence of shared microbiota suggests a core microbiota that could be exploited for paratransgenesis efforts.
Improving Influenza Vaccination Coverage in Patients with Cancer: A Position Paper from a Multidisciplinary Expert Group
Authors: Bonanni Paolo , Maio Michele , Beretta Giordano D. , Icardi Giancarlo , Rossi Alessandro , Cinieri Saverio
Published: April 2024

Patients with cancer can be immunocompromised because of their disease and/or due to anticancer therapy. In this population, severe influenza virus infections are associated with an elevated risk of morbidity and mortality. Influenza vaccination is therefore highly recommended in cancer patients, including those receiving anticancer therapy. However, vaccination coverage remains far below the recommended target for vulnerable subjects. Six specialists in oncology, hematology, immunology, and public health/vaccinology convened with the objective of developing strategies, based on evidence and clinical experience, for improving influenza vaccination coverage in cancer patients. This viewpoint provides an overview of current influenza vaccination recommendations in cancer patients, discusses barriers to vaccination coverage, and presents strategies for overcoming said barriers. New immunization issues raised by the COVID-19 pandemic are also addressed. Future directions include improving public education on influenza vaccination, providing the media with accurate information, improving knowledge among healthcare professionals, improving access to vaccines for cancer patients, co-administration of the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, increased collaboration between oncologists and other health professionals, increased accessibility of digital vaccination registries to specialists, shared information platforms, and promoting immunization campaigns by healthcare systems with the support of scientific societies.
Perspectives in the Development of Tools to Assess Vaccine Literacy
Authors: Biasio Luigi Roberto , Zanobini Patrizio , Lorini Chiara , Bonaccorsi Guglielmo
Published: April 2024

Vaccine literacy (VL) is the ability to find, understand, and evaluate vaccination-related information to make appropriate decisions about immunization. The tools developed so far for its evaluation have produced consistent results. However, some dimensions may be underestimated due to the complexity of factors influencing VL. Moreover, the heterogeneity of methods used in studies employing these tools hinders a comprehensive understanding of its role even more. To overcome these limitations, a path has been sought to propose new instruments. This has necessitated updating earlier literature reviews on VL and related tools, exploring its relationship with vaccine hesitancy (VH), and examining associated variables like beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors towards immunization. Based on the current literature, and supported by the re-analysis of a dataset from an earlier study, we propose a theoretical framework to serve as the foundation for creating future assessment tools. These instruments should not only evaluate the psychological factors underlying the motivational aspect of VL, but also encompass knowledge and competencies. The positioning of VL in the framework at the intersection between sociodemographic antecedents and attitudes, leading to behaviors and outcomes, explains why and how VL can directly or indirectly influence vaccination decisions by countering VH and operating at personal, as well as at organizational and community levels.
Short-Term Morpho-Functional Changes before and after Strabismus Surgery in Children Using Structural Optical Coherence Tomography: A Pilot Study
Authors: Viggiano Pasquale , Gaudiomonte Marida , Procoli Ugo , Micelli Ferrari Luisa , Borrelli Enrico , Boscia Giacomo , Ferrara Andrea , De Vitis Fabio , Scalise Gemma , Albano Valeria , Alessio Giovanni , Boscia Francesco
Published: April 2024

Purpose: To evaluate the immediate alterations in the thickness of the macular ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL), peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), inner retinal layer (IRL), and outer retinal layer (ORL) using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) subsequent to strabismus surgery in pediatric patients diagnosed with horizontal esotropia. Methods: Twenty-eight eyes from twenty-one child patients who had undergone uncomplicated horizontal rectus muscle surgery due to strabismus were included. Measurements of RNFL, mGCL-IPL, IRL, and ORL using structural OCT were conducted both before the surgery and one month after the surgical procedure. Importantly, a control group comprising 14 healthy eyes, matched for age and significant refractive error (<3.00 diopters), was included in the current analysis. Results: Our analysis indicated no significant disparity before and after surgery in terms of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), RNFL, IRL, and ORL. Conversely, concerning the macular ganglion cell layer–inner plexiform layer analysis, a substantial increase in mGCL-IPL was observed following the surgical intervention. The mean mGCL-IPL measured 60.8 ± 9.2 μm at baseline and 66.1 ± 13.2 μm one month after the surgery (p = 0.026). Notably, comparison between the strabismus group at baseline and the healthy group revealed a significant reduction in mGCL-IPL in the strabismus group (60.8 ± 9.2) compared to the healthy control group (68.3 ± 7.2; p = 0.014). Conclusions: Following strabismus surgery, our observations pointed towards a thickening of the mGCL-IPL layer, which is likely attributable to transient local inflammation. Additionally, we identified a significant differentiation in the mGCL-IPL complex between the pediatric patient group with strabismus and the control group.
New Russian style and features of its implementation in modern culture
Authors:   Department of Philosophy, Cultural Studies and Political Science, Moscow University for the Humanities, Sapozhnikova V. S.
Published: April 2024

History constantly alternates between periods when the general, the universal, and the non-national, and then the specific, the local, and the unique become relevant. The most striking example of the change of such eras was the boundary between the Enlightenment and Romanticism: during this period, faith in the universality and generality of reason, the desire for the universal, and the rejection of traditionality gave way to a passion for ethnic uniqueness, emphasizing the special significance of the peculiarity, emotionality, and beauty of ancient folk history. The article describes the new Russian style and examples of its implementation in various forms of culture.
IMPROVEMENT OF THE PASSENGER TRANSPORTATION IN THE TOWN OF BRYANSK USING ELECTRIC TRANSPORT
Authors:   Bryansk State University of Engineering and Technology, Sivakov Vladimir Viktorovich , Yurkov Evgeny Andreevich ,   Bryansk State University of Engineering and Technology, Borovaya Kristina Sergeevna ,   Bryansk State University of Engineering and Technology
Published: April 2024

The paper considers the state of the issue of improving the route network of the town of Bryansk and possible directions of their improvement. It analyses the variants of existing bus and trolleybus routes and reveals the routes with high degree of duplication. It is suggested to change the duplicated routes using trolleybuses with the dynamic charging and having a sufficiently large autonomous travel reserve. The possible reduction of total mass emissions of exhaust gases and significant reduction of operating costs in case of application of trolleybuses with dynamic charging is determined.
TERMINAL AND LOGISTICS INTERACTION IN THE DESIGN OF CROSS-BORDER INFRASTRUCTURE
Authors:   Far Eastern State Transport University, Korol Roman Grigorievich , Podolinnaya Sophia Dmitrievna ,   Far Eastern State Transport University
Published: April 2024

In this article, the analysis of the current situation in the sphere of foreign trade transportation of Russia and China is carried out, the factors influencing the efficiency of transportation through railway border crossings are identified, the algorithm of the simulation program with a visual representation of the processes of terminal and logistics interaction is described, the operation of terminal and warehouse facilities of the Nizhneleninskoye shopping mall is simulated, taking into account technological and technical parameters upon receipt of the forecasted volumes of cargo traffic.
ROUTING OF RING MOVEMENT SCHEMES BASED ON DUMMY NODES AND BRANCHES
Authors:   Oryol State University, Novikov Alexander Nikolaevich , Zhestkova Svetlana Anatolievna ,   Penza State University of Architecture and Construction
Published: April 2024

The solution of the problem of transport routing in the delivery of goods by the method of fictitious nodes and branches is considered, which ensures the possibility of multiple visits to the cargo terminal and sequential visits to specific points of trading enterprises when organizing ring routes. The method consists in creating one common dummy ring route passing through all points of the transport network once. A numerical example of solving the problem based on the proposed method is given.
METHODOLOGY FOR PREDICTING ERRORS BY A CANDIDATE DRIVER IN THE ANALYSIS OF ROAD SITUATIONS
Authors:   South-West State University, Ageev Evgeny Viktorovich , Vinogradov Еvgeny Sergeevich ,   South-West State University
Published: April 2024

This article analyzes road traffic accidents among road users, which allowed us to establish the mechanism of the occurrence of an accident situation. A transport model of traffic flow regulation is presented, which allows determining the conditions under which the vehicle is in optimal conditions on the road, a model of the activity of a candidate driver during interaction in the traffic flow is developed. The presented functional model makes it possible to establish the levels of factors that influence the driver in the process of driving a vehicle and the conditions that ensure safe operating modes. The most common mistakes made by candidates for drivers when interacting in the traffic flow at the stage of practical training are determined.
SOFTWARE FOR DIAGNOSIS OF HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS OF TRANSPORTATION AND TECHNOLOGICAL MACHINES
Authors:   Penza State Agrarian University, Ivanov Alexander Semenovich , Sergeev Nikita Ilyich ,   Penza State Agrarian University, Lyandenburskii Vladimir Vladimirovich ,   Penza State Agrarian University
Published: April 2024

When operating working machines, this can be done using software to obtain the most accurate information about the technical condition of hydraulic drives. this will provide the ability to manage their technical condition using methods of prediction and timely elimination of failures and malfunctions. For complex systems, such as modern hydraulic drives, it is very important to develop technol-ogies for monitoring the condition of the working elements of the hydraulic drive and identifying faults in hydraulic system units, which make it possible to improve technological discipline while increasing the performance of hydraulic drives.
THE STANDARD OF INTELLIGENT PASSENGER TRANSPORT SERVICE
Authors:   State University of Management, Stepanov Alexey Alekseevich , Merenkov Artem Olegovich ,   State University of Management, Lastochkina Galina Alexandrovna ,   State University of Management
Published: April 2024

The article discusses the issues of the current level of development and principles of designing urban transport systems. The authors have identified the components of the formation of intelligent transport systems, analyzed current problems, studied the theory of the issue, retrospective and best practices. As the results of the study, the concept of transport services based on the use of digital technologies is presented.
FUNDAMENTALS OF THE METHODOLOGY FOR CALCULATING INTERACTION BASED ON THE «MAN-ELECTRIC SCOOTER» SYSTEM WITH A FIXED OBSTACLE, WITHOUT TAKING INTO ACCOUNT DEFORMATIONS OF THE SYSTEM
Authors:   Belgorod State Technological University, Zagorodny Nikolay Alexandrovich , Degtyar Andrey Nikolaevich ,   Belgorod State Technological University, Kolmykova Irina Vladimirovna ,   Belgorod State Technological University, Shapovalova Victoria Alexandrovna ,   ECC of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia in the Belgorod region
Published: April 2024

The development of a mathematical model of the movement of road users, in the process of interaction with a direct central absolutely elastic impact of an object on a stationary obstacle. In this case, a model reflecting the interaction of a person moving on an electric scooter with a stationary obstacle is considered.
STRUCTURE OF THE INFORMATION MODEL OF THE «MOTORWAY-HIGHLY AUTOMATED VEHICLE» SUBSYSTEM
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Kolomiets Elena Anatolyevna , Kurakina Elena Vladimirovna ,   St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering
Published: April 2024

The paper considers an information model of interaction between components of a highly automated vehicle control system, where the role of the driver is significantly transformed and control is transferred to an automated control system. The main element of this system is a program based on artificial intelligence. The paper also describes problems and methods of their solution, which may arise in the functioning of the system. Besides, it has been considered the subsystem «Motorway - Highly automated vehicle» which includes such elements as vehicle with automated control system, road, traffic control system, safety system, system of car condition monitoring and system of control over the state of the road and its maintenance.
Navigating The Storm: ASEAN's Strategy Amidst Two Major Powers
Authors: Sekar Ayu Galuh Anissa
Published: April 2024

This study aims to analyze ASEAN's stance and approach, particularly in managing confrontational politics amidst major power competition, this article will also demonstrate ASEAN's attitudes and policies in navigating confrontational politics, including how ASEAN leverages its regional community norms to respond to such competition. Through this exploration, the author seeks to delve into the role and theoretical implications of ASEAN as a regional actor grappling with the management of political competition in the rapidly evolving East Asian and Indo-Pacific regionalism. The author used an impartial enmeshment concept and a descriptive qualitative method. The results showed that the intense geostrategic competition between China and the United States has placed ASEAN in a dilemma. ASEAN strives to maintain its centrality in the region by fostering fair, impartial, and neutral cooperation relationships. ASEAN bases its approach on the norms and principles of the organization, such as transparency, openness, inclusivity, good conflict management, and the importance of sovereignty and non-intervention (ASEAN Way). The ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) is one policy that reflects ASEAN's efforts to build a new framework of cooperation based on its own rule in the region. However, this Southeast Asia organization faces several challenges that can threaten its position.

Keywords— ASEAN, Indo-Pacific, Impartial, Enmeshment, Geostrategies