bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategi Implementasi Kebijakan Kawasan Tanpa Rokok (KTR) di Wilayah Kerja Kecamatan Jambi Selatan Kota Jambi Tahun 2023
Authors: Al Shiddiqy M. Irpansyah , Saputra Fajar , Yulia Dwita
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Masalah rokok dan dampaknya terhadap kesehatan individu serta lingkungan menjadi isu signifikan di Indonesia. Meskipun kebijakan Kawasan Tanpa Rokok (KTR) telah diterapkan di kantor tersebut, masih terdapat tantangan dalam menciptakan lingkungan kerja yang sehat dan bebas dari asap rokok. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengimplementasikan kebijakan KTR di Wilayah Kerja Kecamatan Jambi Selatan Kota Jambi pada tahun 2023. Metode penelitian kualitatif dengan teknik wawancara mendalam dan observasi digunakan. Informan penelitian adalah individu yang dianggap memiliki pengalaman atau pemahaman yang lebih mendalam tentang kebijakan KTR, termasuk Camat, sekretaris camat, seluruh lurah di wilayah kecamatan Jambi Selatan, Kepala Sekolah, Pimpinan Tempat Olah Raga, dan masyarakat, sebanyak 21 orang yang dipilih dengan teknik purposive sampling. Hasil penelitian menyoroti sejumlah masalah dalam implementasi KTR, termasuk komunikasi yang perlu ditingkatkan, kekurangan sumber daya, kurangnya pedoman khusus, serta perluasan kesadaran dan sikap positif. Selain itu, evaluasi dan koordinasi yang lebih baik, serta penerapan sanksi yang lebih tegas, termasuk memanfaatkan teknologi CCTV dan sensor asap rokok untuk mendeteksi pelanggaran, diperlukan untuk memastikan pematuhan KTR. Rekomendasi meliputi perbaikan dalam sosialisasi, peningkatan sumber daya, pengembangan pedoman, program kesadaran, serta peningkatan evaluasi dan penegakan hukum. Implementasi rekomendasi ini diharapkan dapat meningkatkan efektivitas KTR dan menciptakan lingkungan yang lebih sehat dan bebas rokok di wilayah Kecamatan Jambi Selatan.
Keywords:  Strategi Implementasi, Kawasan Tanpa Rokok, Kecamatan
Textual Structure, Dialogue and the Layout of the Manuscripts of Acallam na Senórach
Authors: Cnockaert-Guillou Nina
Published: February 2025

In the medieval Irish frame narrative Acallam na Senórach ‘The Colloquy of the Ancients’, ancient Irish warriors Caílte and Oisín meet Saint Patrick and take him on a tour of Ireland, telling him hundreds of stories about the late Finn mac Cumaill. The nature of the text has led scholars to see Acallam na Senórach as episodic; yet, no research has been done into the manuscript evidence relating to how scribes and medieval readers may have conceived of the narrative as containing different parts, such as how the text is displayed on the page, which initials are coloured or indented in the margins and marginalia. This article draws on the concepts of ‘grammar of legibility’ (Parkes 1992: 23) and ‘lisibilité du texte’ ‘legibility of the text’ (Bergeron & Ornato 1990: 151–152) to address this desideratum. This study focusses on the five manuscripts (s. xv–xvii) in which Acallam na Senórach survives, and demonstrates that layout, colours, litterae notabiliores and paragraphs are used as a way to mark dialogue and the textual structure of the narrative.
Intersections in Early Irish and Japanese Nature Poetry: Seasons and Place Names
Authors: Pascale Mellisa
Published: February 2025

This article examines similar poetic conventions in Early Irish and Japanese nature poetry. The first section focuses on associations of the seasons, often used in both literatures to explore cycles of rulership, rituals both societal and personal, and phases in human experiences. The second section examines the use of dindṡenchas in Early Irish lyrics and a comparable device, the utamakura, in Japanese poetry. Dindṡenchas and utamakura add historical and literary depth to nature poetry.
Development of water vapor permeability determination methodology for spray film-forming systems
Authors: Shumkova M. M. , Pomytkina M. V. , Ananian A. A. , Pouya G. , Agabalyan M. M. , Bakhrushina E. O.
Published: February 2025

Introduction. Spray film-forming systems (SFFSs) are dosage forms that form an in situ film when sprayed. One of the key features of SFFSs is partial vapor permeability, a special case of occlusion. Various methods assess vapor permeability by determining the occlusion factor, but disparate approaches in studies prevent harmonizing results and identifying optimal parameters.

Aim. Development of a methodology for determining the vapor permeability of spray film-forming systems, measuring the occlusion factor and studying the most significant factors affecting the accuracy of determining this characteristic.

Materials and methods. Determination of vapor permeability was carried out using a special setup, consisting of a cell with water and a membrane fixed over it, on which the model composition was applied. Measurement cylinders of 25 ml (Russia) or penicillin vials with a smooth neck of 10 ml (Russia), membranes for filtration and dialysis (nylon, EPM.K, LLC RME "Technofilter", Russia), dialysis bags MEMBRA-CEL® (cellulose acetate, Viskase Companies, Inc., USA) and Sartopure® PP3 (polypropylene, Sartorius Stedim Biotech, Germany) were used. As sealants to isolate airflow around the membrane Parafilm M, C-silicone ZetaPlus L Intro Kit (Zhermack, Poland, Italy), hotmelt adhesive Master Hand (Union Source Со., Ltd., China), UV-curable material "UNIREST" (LLC "StomaDent", Russia) were used. Comparative analysis of materials was carried out on a model composition containing 0.5 % (m/o) Kollicoat® MAE 100P (BASF, Germany), 3 % (m/o) Soluplus® (BASF, Germany), 2 % (m/o) Kollisolv® PEG-400 (BASF, Germany), 70 % ethyl alcohol (SOJSC "Ferein", Belarus).

Results and discussion. The combination of Parafilm M and the presented sealants showed high performance. Synthetic membrane occlusion factor for the model substance varied depending on the membrane type from 9.35 ± 3.58 to 16.86 ± 6.09, reflecting low-medium degree of occlusion.

Conclusion. In this study optimized techniques for determining the vapor permeability for SFFS were developed. It was observed that rationalized membrane selection, consideration of the probability of moisture absorption by the membranes, method of sealing and cell calibrations, temperature and humidity levels, and vapor pressure were necessary.
An integrated mass drug administration against hymenolepiasis and schistosomiasis in Sudan
Authors: Jin Yan
Published: February 2025

Hymenolepis nana, commonly known as the dwarf tapeworm, affects 50 to 75 million people worldwide. To date, no studies have explored the disease burden of H. nana infection in Sudan. This study aimed to determine the national prevalence of H. nana across 189 districts and 18 states in Sudan and the number of individuals infected with H. nana who did not receive treatment during the mass drug administration (MDA) campaign targeting schistosomiasis. In addition, the study sought to evaluate the extent of co-infection of H. nana with schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis. This involved a secondary analysis of a nationwide survey conducted in 2017 in Sudan. Binomial family generalized linear models with a logarithmic link function were used to estimate the prevalence ratio of potential risk factors, including sex and water and sanitation conditions in schools and households. For the nationwide survey, a 2-stage sampling method was used, in which 105,167 students were selected from 1,772 schools. A total of 96,679 stool samples were collected, of which 4,706 (4.9%) tested positive for H. nana. Of these, fewer than 1% were co-infected with schistosomiasis (either Schistosoma haematobium or Schistosoma mansoni), and a mere 0.1% had co-infections with soil-transmitted helminths. At an 8% threshold for village-based MDA, approximately 1.1 million infected adults are ineligible to receive praziquantel from the village-based MDA. Children residing in households with improved latrines had a lower odds of H. nana infection than those without improved latrines did (adjusted odds ratio=0.87, 95% confidence interval=0.80–0.94, p=0.001). In countries where H. nana is endemic, such as Sudan, providers making MDA decisions should consider the prevalence of either H. nana or schistosomiasis, rather than focusing solely on the latter.
Performance validation of the BD MAX Enteric Parasite Panel using simulated samples in low endemic regions
Authors: Park Bosung , Won Eun Jeong , Sung Heungsup , Kim Mi-Na
Published: February 2025

Molecular diagnostics are essential for detecting intestinal parasites, but evaluating clinical samples from low endemic areas, including Korea, is challenging. We tested the performance of the BD MAX Enteric Parasite Panel in simulated samples for clinical use. Simulated samples were prepared with residual stool samples to confirm the diagnostic performance of the kits. Standard materials for Cryptosporidium parvum, Giardia lamblia, and Entamoeba histolytica were obtained for assessment. Limit of detection was determined by diluting standard materials into multiple concentrations and testing each in duplicate. Repeatability was assessed by retesting all samples twice. Accuracy was evaluated by comparing BD MAX System results with intended results. The limit of detection values obtained using standard materials were 781 cysts/ml, 6,250 oocysts/ml, and 125 DNA copies/ml for G. lamblia, C. parvum, and E. histolytica, respectively. Simulated G. lamblia-positive stool samples with concentrations above 6,250 cysts/ml consistently yielded positive results (100% concordance). However, C. parvum-positive stool samples at 6,250 oocysts/ml showed 50% concordance initially and 75% after retesting. At 62,500 oocysts/ml, the concordance rates were 89% initially and 100% after retesting. Overall agreement was 95.2%, but that for C. parvum was relatively low (82.4%). The diagnostic performances were 87.8% of sensitivity and 100% of specificity. Despite the limited clinical samples, BD MAX Enteric Parasite Panel showed good performance for clinical use, and spiked samples proved useful for evaluating protozoan PCR in low-incidence regions.
Establishing a Cre/loxP-based genetic manipulation system for Acanthamoeba: Targeted genome editing and stable reporter expression
Authors: Aung Ja Moon , Joo So-Young , Na Byoung-Kuk , Bang Seunghyeok , Shin Minsang , Goo Youn-Kyoung , Hong Yeonchul
Published: February 2025

Acanthamoeba is an opportunistic pathogen responsible for granulomatous amoebic encephalitis and amoebic keratitis. Despite its clinical significance, effective treatments remain challenging due to a limited understanding of its pathogenic mechanism. This study developed a genetic manipulation system in Acanthamoeba to facilitate gene function and drug screening studies. We applied the Cre/loxP system to integrate the gene encoding the tdTomato fluorescent protein into the genome of Acanthamoeba castellanii via homologous recombination. The polyubiquitin gene and its untranslated regions were identified and verified, after which the tdTomato gene was cloned between the untranslated regions of the polyubiquitin gene. The construct was then introduced into the Acanthamoeba genome using a modified pLPBLP vector containing loxP sites. Cre recombinase was utilized to remove the neomycin resistance cassette flanked by loxP sites, and genetically modified cells were selected by clonal dilution. The integration of the tdTomato gene, confirmed through PCR and fluorescence microscopy, showed stable expression in both trophozoites and cysts without the need for antibiotic selection. We demonstrated the feasibility of antibiotic-free reporter gene expression in Acanthamoeba. The system provides a valuable tool for functional genomics, allowing us to explore gene functions in Acanthamoeba and develop reliable drug screening models. Furthermore, the ability to express genes without the continuous use of selection markers opens up new possibilities for studying the pathobiology of this pathogen and advancing the development of novel therapeutic strategies against Acanthamoeba infections.
DEEP BELIEF NETWORK (DBN) IMPLEMENTATION FOR MULTIMODAL CLASSIFICATION OF SENTIMENT ANALYSIS
Authors: Hibatullah Hilmi , Thobirin Aris , Surono Sugiyarto
Published: February 2025

In sentiment analysis, the use of multimodal data, consisting of a combination of images and text, is becoming increasingly important for understanding digital context. However, the main challenge lies in effectively integrating these two types of data into a single learning model. Deep Belief Network (DBN), with its capability to learn hierarchical data representations, is utilized to explore optimal strategies for multimodal sentiment analysis. The dataset includes 34,034 images from the FERPlus dataset to train the model in classifying emotions based on facial expressions, as well as 999 text and image samples obtained through crawling X. Experiments were conducted by comparing the performance of DBN with 2, 3, and 4 hidden layers across different test data sizes (10%-50%). The results indicate that the 3-hidden-layer configuration achieved the best performance, with a highest accuracy of 76% at a 20% test data size. Additionally, testing different learning rates (10⁻⁴ to 10⁻⁷) produced consistent results, but the fastest computation time was achieved with a learning rate of 10⁻⁴. Based on these findings, DBN with a 3-hidden-layer configuration and a learning rate of 10⁻⁴ is considered a more efficient alternative for multimodal sentiment analysis based on text and images.
PENINGKATAN HASIL BELAJAR MATA PELAJARAN IPAS MENGGUNAKAN ALAT PERAGA PADA MATERI INDRA PENDENGARAN KELAS 4 SDN PUTAT JAYA IV/380 SURABAYA
Authors: Dwi Wahyuni Fitri Wulandari , Azizah Siti
Published: February 2025

Pelnellitian ini belrtujuan untuk melningkatkan pelmahaman pelselrta didik telrhadap matelri indra pelndelngaran mellalui pelnggunaan alat pelraga indra pelndelngaran di kellas IV SDN Putat Jaya IV/380 Surabaya. Pelnellitian ini telrmasuk dalam katelgori Pelnellitian Tindakan Kellas (PTK). Subjelk pelnellitian ini adalah pelselrta didik kellas IV di SDN Putat Jaya IV/380 Surabaya, yang belrjumlah 27 siswa. Meltodel yang digunakan dalam pelnellitian ini adalah kuantitatif delskriptif. Telknik pelngumpulan data dalam pelnellitian ini melnggunakan tels dan obselrvasi. Telknik analisis data melliputi analisis data tels dan analisis data obselrvasi. Hasil pelnellitian melnunjukkan kelbelrhasilan delngan adanya pelningkatan pelmahaman pelselrta didik pada pra-siklus, siklus I, dan siklus II. Pada pra-siklus, pelselrta didik melmpelrolelh nilai rata-rata selbelsar 65,7 delngan pelrselntasel 29%. Seldangkan, pada siklus I, hasil rata-rata nilai pelselrta didik melningkat melnjadi 75,9 delngan pelrselntasel 77%. Kelmudian, telrjadi pelningkatan lagi pada siklus II, di mana nilai rata-rata pelselrta didik melncapai 82,7 delngan pelrselntasel 92%. Selhingga, hasil pelnellitian ini melnunjukkan bahwa pelnggunaan alat pelraga indra pelndelngaran dapat melningkatkan pelmahaman pelselrta didik telrhadap matelri indra pelndelngaran di kellas IV SDN Putat Jaya IV/380 Surabaya.
Resilient Pathways for Zambia's Power System: Modelling a Low-Carbon Future Using the PyPSA-Earth-Zambia Framework
Authors: Nyoni Kumbuso Joshua , Solà Vilalta Albert , Abuzayed Anas , Chitandula Albert , Kabala Edna , Cheelo Caesar , Maliye Ruth L
Published: February 2025

Zambia’s electricity sector is heavily reliant on hydropower, constituting 84% of its generation capacity. This dependency exposes the nation to significant risks from climate-induced hydrological variability, as seen in recent droughts that led to severe load shedding and economic disruption. Addressing this challenge is critical to achieving universal electricity access, enhancing energy security, and aligning with global decarbonisation goals. This study employs the PyPSA-Earth Zambia framework to evaluate twelve integrated scenarios that incorporate electricity demand growth, hydrological variability, and coal power. By analysing these scenarios, the research investigates the trade-offs between maintaining grid stability, achieving climate targets, and expanding equitable access to electricity by 2030. The methodology uniquely combines detailed energy modelling with scenario-based planning to assess Zambia’s options for a resilient energy transition. Key findings highlight that solar and wind energy are pivotal in diversifying Zambia’s energy mix, reducing reliance on hydropower, and mitigating climate risks. Renewable-dominant scenarios demonstrate long-term cost advantages and environmental benefits, despite higher initial capital investments, while coal-reliant pathways undermine climate commitments. Flexible technologies, such as biomass and battery storage, are critical for maintaining grid reliability during periods of low hydropower output. The study provides actionable insights for policymakers, including prioritising decentralised renewable solutions, modernising infrastructure, and leveraging innovative financing mechanisms to attract private investment. By addressing Zambia’s climate-water-energy nexus, this research contributes a blueprint for sustainable development, offering lessons for other nations facing similar energy challenges and aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action).
Exploring the decentralized science ecosystem: insights on organizational structures, technologies, and funding
Authors: Díaz Francisco , Menchaca Carolina , Weidener Lukas
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The scientific community is increasingly interested in leveraging decentralized technologies to address systemic challenges such as the reputation economy, the monopolization of academic publishing, and the replication crisis. This study presents an analysis of the Decentralized Science (DeSci) landscape in 2023, focusing on organizational structures, technological foundations, and funding mechanisms of DeSci organizations.

Methods

A 16-question survey was distributed to DeSci organizations between December 2023 and April 2024, and responses from 49 projects were analyzed using quantitative and qualitative methods.

Results

Results highlight the prominent role of Ethereum as the dominant blockchain platform in DeSci, the varied applications of blockchain in scientific processes, and a significant emphasis on community building and infrastructure development. Funding sources within the ecosystem are moving towards partnerships with more traditional organizations, including academia. However, most projects lack DAO features for governance. It remains uncertain whether they will adopt more DAO-like structures in the future or deploy a different organizational model.

Discussion

Our findings offer a comprehensive overview of the progress and challenges facing the DeSci ecosystem, including slow project progression due to leadership issues and limited funding for most DeSci projects. By identifying key patterns and areas for improvement, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the factors driving success and sustainability in DeSci.
State-of-the-art review on reducing residential buildings’ risk to tornado hazards
Authors: Badmus Afeez A. , Sutley Elaina J.
Published: February 2025

Tornadoes represent one of the most formidable natural hazards in the United States. Despite their frequent occurrence, they have received limited yet growing attention in engineering research and practice. Recent updates to the American Society of Civil Engineers/Structural Engineering Institute (ASCE/SEI 7-22) standards, incorporated into the 2024 International Building Code, mandate that Risk Category III and IV buildings in tornado-prone areas be designed to withstand tornado loads for the first time. Annually, over 1250 tornadoes are reported in the U.S., and post-disaster evaluations consistently reveal that residential buildings, including single-family, multi-family, and manufactured homes, account for two-thirds of the structural damage caused by tornadoes and most tornado-related deaths. However, these homes are not currently covered under the new provisions, leaving them vulnerable. This study reviews the research on mitigating tornado risk to residential buildings from a structural engineering perspective, including coverage on tornado formation, impact analysis and proposed mitigation strategies examined through numerical, experimental, and post-tornado field studies. Finally, the review covers community-level analyses and tornado resilience modeling using fragility methodology that supports risk-informed decision-making. Key findings reveal that current building codes and standards inadequately address tornado-specific loads, particularly for risk category II wood-frame structures. Additionally, this review highlights the need for improved fragility models that account for the unique characteristics of tornado forces, as well as enhanced mitigation strategies such as roof-to-wall connections and debris-resistant designs. These findings underscore the urgency of adopting tornado-resilient provisions in building codes and standards to reduce damage and fatalities in tornado-prone regions.
Comprehensive analysis of the effects of P4ha1 and P4ha2 deletion on post-translational modifications of fibrillar collagens in mouse skin
Authors: Sarohi Vivek
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Collagens, the most abundant proteins in mammals, play pivotal roles in maintaining tissue structure, functions, cell-to-cell communication, cellular migration, cellular behavior, and growth. Structures of collagens are highly complex due to the presence of dynamic post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as hydroxylations (on prolines and lysine residues) and O-glycosylation (on hydroxylysines) enzymatically catalyzed during biosynthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum. Collagen PTMs are essential for maintaining structural stability, elasticity, and different functions of collagens. The most prevalent modification in fibrillar collagens is prolyl 4-hydroxylation catalyzed by collagen prolyl 4-hydroxylases (C-P4Hs). Prolyl 4-hydroxylation on collagens plays a critical role in collagen biosynthesis, thermostability, and cell-collagen interactions. Collagens are large proteins. Different regions of collagen perform different functions, so the presence or absence of a PTM on a particular collagen site can affect its functioning. However, comprehensive site-specific identification of these PTMs on fibrillar collagen chains of mice skin has not been performed yet. Furthermore, the effects of prolyl 4-hydroxylase alpha 1 (P4HA1) and P4HA2 on 3-hydroxyproline, 5-hydroxylysine, and O-glycosylation sites of fibrillar collagen chains have not yet been explored.

Methodology

This study presents a comprehensive PTM analysis of fibrillar collagen chains extracted from the skin of different mutants of C-P4Hs (P4ha1+/−; P4ha2−/−, P4ha1+/+; P4ha2−/−, P4ha1+/−; P4ha2+/−, P4ha1+/+; P4ha2+/−) and wild-type mice. In this study, proteomics-based comprehensive PTM site identification by MS2 level ions from raw mass spectrometry data was performed, and MS1-level quantification was performed for PTM occupancy percentage analysis.

Results and discussion

A total of 421 site-specific PTMs were identified on fibrillar collagen chains (COL1A1, COL1A2, and COL3A1) extracted from wild-type mice skin. A total of 23 P4HA1-specific and seven P4HA2-specific 4-hydroxyproline sites on fibrillar collagen chains were identified. Moreover, it was found that the P4ha1 and P4ha2 deletion can affect the 3-hydroxyproline occupancy percentages in mice skin. Interestingly, increased levels of lysyl 5-hydroxylation were detected upon partial deletion of P4ha1 and full deletion of P4ha2. These findings show that the effects of deletion of prolyl 4-hydroxylases are not limited to less 4-hydroxylation on some specific proline sites, but it can also modulate the prolyl 3-hydroxylation, lysyl 5-hydroxylation, and O-glycosylation occupancy percentages in the fibrillar collagen chains in a site-specific manner.
Evaluating oxidative stress targeting treatments in in vitro models of placental stress relevant to preeclampsia
Authors: Afrose Dinara , Johansen Matt D. , Nikolic Valentina , Karadzov Orlic Natasa , Mikovic Zeljko , Stefanovic Milan , Cakic Zoran , Hansbro Philip M. , McClements Lana
Published: February 2025

Background

Preeclampsia is a complex pregnancy disorder characterized by the new onset of hypertension and organ dysfunction, often leading to significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Placental dysfunction is a hallmark feature of preeclampsia, which is often caused by inappropriate trophoblast cell function in association with oxidative stress, inflammation and/or pathological hypoxia. This study explores the role of oxidative stress in trophoblast cell-based models mimicking the preeclamptic placenta and evaluates potential therapeutic strategies targeting these mechanisms.

Methods

Uric acid (UA) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were measured in human plasma from women with preeclampsia (n = 24) or normotensive controls (n = 14) using colorimetric assays. Custom-made first trimester trophoblast cell line, ACH-3P, was exposed to various preeclampsia-like stimuli including hypoxia mimetic (dimethyloxalylglycine or DMOG, 1 mM), inflammation (tumour necrosis factor or TNF-α, 10 ng/mL) or mitochondria dysfunction agent, (Rhodamine-6G or Rho-6G, 1 μg/mL), ± aspirin (0.5 mM), metformin (0.5 mM), AD-01 (100 nM) or resveratrol (15 µM), for 48 h. Following treatments, UA/MDA, proliferation (MTT), wound scratch and cytometric bead, assays, were performed.

Results

Overall, MDA plasma concentration was increased in the preeclampsia group compared to healthy controls (p < 0.001) whereas UA showed a trend towards an increase (p = 0.06); when adjusted for differences in gestational age at blood sampling, MDA remained (p < 0.001) whereas UA became (p = 0.03) significantly correlated with preeclampsia. Our 2D first trimester trophoblast cell-based in vitro model of placental stress as observed in preeclampsia, mimicked the increase in UA concentration following treatment with DMOG (p < 0.0001), TNF-α (p < 0.05) or Rho-6G (p < 0.001) whereas MDA cell concentration increased only in the presence of DMOG (p < 0.0001) or Rho-6G (p < 0.001). Metformin was able to abrogate DMOG- (p < 0.01), Rho-6G- (p < 0.0001) or TNF-α- (p < 0.01) induced increase in UA, or DMOG- (p < 0.0001) or TNF-α- (p < 0.05)induced increase in MDA. AD-01 abrogated UA or MDA increase in the presence of TNF-α (p < 0.001) or Rho-6G (p < 0.001)/DMOG (p < 0.0001), respectively. The preeclampsia-like stimuli also mimicked adverse impact on trophoblast cell proliferation, migration and inflammation, most of which were restored with either aspirin, metformin, resveratrol, or AD-01 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our 2D in vitro models recapitulate the response of the first trimester trophoblast cells to preeclampsia-like stresses, modelling inappropriate placental development, and demonstrate therapeutic potential of repurposed treatments.
Exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics impairs sperm metabolism and pre-implantation embryo development in mice
Authors: Liu Yingdong , Hao Fengdan , Liang Haixin , Liu Wenqiang , Guo Yi
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Microplastics and nanoplastics are prevalent environmental contaminants. Recent reports indicate that polystyrene nanoparticles may adversely impact male reproductive health. This study aims to examine the effects of polystyrene exposure on sperm metabolism and the development of pre-implantation embryos.

Methods

In this study, male C57BL/6 mice were orally gavage-administered polystyrene nanoplastics (60 nm, 20 mg/kg/day) for 35 days to assess their impact on male reproduction and early embryonic development. Experiments included testicular transcriptome analysis, sperm metabolomics, sperm motility and fertilization assays, embryonic ROS detection, and RNA sequencing of 2-cell embryos, revealing the adverse effects of polystyrene exposure on sperm metabolism and embryo development.

Results

The results revealed that oral gavage of polystyrene to male mice induced a pronounced immune-inflammatory response in testicular tissue, reduced sperm motility, and significantly lowered the fertilization rate. Notably, sperm from treated mice exhibited substantial metabolic disruptions, affecting key pathways, including glycerophospholipid biosynthesis and DNA repair. After fertilization, embryos at the 2-cell stage suffered damage in apoptotic and DNA repair pathways, subsequently impairing early embryo development.

Discussion

In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the oral gavage administration of polystyrene nanoplastics to male mice significantly affects male reproductive function, resulting in abnormalities in early embryonic development and alterations in associated gene expression profiles. These findings offer essential scientific insights for future research into sperm-mediated transgenerational effects and their impact on early embryonic development.
Design, synthesis, in silico studies and antiproliferative evaluation of some novel hybrids of pyrimidine-morpholine
Authors: Ataollahi Elaheh , Emami Leila , Al-Dies Al-Anood Mohammad , Zare Fateme , Poustforoosh Alireza , Emami Mina , Saadat Fateme , Motamen Fateme , Rezaei Zahra , Khabnadideh Soghra
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. These cells can invade nearby tissues and organs, or they may metastasize to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Methods

In this study, eight novel pyrimidine-morpholine hybrides (2a-2h) were designed and synthesized based on molecular hybridization approach to identify potent cytotoxic agents. Spectroscopic methods, including infrared spectroscopy (IR), proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR & 13CNMR), and mass spectrometry, were employed to confirm the structures of the compounds. The cytotoxic effects of the derivatives were evaluated against cancerous cell lines, including MCF-7 and SW480, using the MTT assay.

Results and discussion

It was demonstrated that all derivatives had appropriate cytotoxic potential with IC50 in range of 5.12–117.04 μM. Compound 2g was identified as the most potent compound, exhibiting IC50 values of 5.10 ± 2.12 μM and 19.60 ± 1.13 μM toward the SW480 and MCF-7 cell lines, respectively. Cell cycle analysis showed that 2g could induces phase arrest in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The apoptosis assay demonstrated the induction of apoptosis in the SW480 cell line. The biological activity of the compounds was confirmed by the docking studies. DFT analysis for compounds 2g and 2h was conducted at the B3LYP/6-31+G** level of theory. It was concluded that 2g is both thermodynamically and kinetically more stable than 2h. Moreover, the interpretation of ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) indicates that these new series of compounds possess acceptable prognostic physicochemical properties. These synthesized compounds may serve as promising candidates for further investigation as anticancer agents.
Vertical porous 1D/2D hybrid aerogels with highly matched charge storage performance for aqueous asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Xu Panji , Quan Kunhua , Wei Xiyuan , Li Yubing , Xu Shuaikai
Published: February 2025

Asymmetric supercapacitors (ASCs) have attracted widespread attention because of their high energy density, high power density and long cycle life. Nevertheless, the development of anodes and cathodes with complementary potential windows and synchronous energy storage kinetics represents a pivotal challenge. We propose to construct nanochannel-coupled vertically porous CNF/Ti3CNTx and CNF/rGO hybrid aerogel electrodes via a unidirectional bottom-up cryoprocess. The vertically porous structure will greatly shorten the ion diffusion path and enhance the charge/ion transfer/diffusion kinetics, and the inserted cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) will impede the re-stacking of the nanosheets and enlarge the interlayer nano-channels, thus improving the accessibility of electrolyte ions. Ultimately, all-solid-state ASCs assembled based on nanochannel-coupled vertically porous MXene and graphene aerogel can achieve an excellent energy density of 20.8 Wh kg−1 at 2.3 kW·kg−1, a high multiplicity performance, and retains 95.1% of energy density after 10,000 cycles. This work not only demonstrates the great superiority of nanochannel-coupled vertically porous hybrid aerogels, but also provides an effective strategy for designing asymmetric supercapacitor electrodes with matched structural and electrochemical properties.
Establishment of a novel double-antibody sandwich fluorescence microsphere immunochromatographic test strip for rapid detection of swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV) infection
Authors: Cong Xiao , Tong Fei , Liu Huizhen , Zhu Yujun , Tan Ningxin , Gu Feng , Wang Huanan , Cong Feng
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV) is an enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus that causes clinical symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea in 10-day-old piglets. SADS-CoV has caused significant economic losses in the swine industry in southern China. Currently, no effective treatments or vaccines are available for this disease, making it crucial to establish a point-of-care testing (POCT) technology for early diagnosis and prevention.

Methods

In this study, we first validated the specificity and immunogenicity of four monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting the nucleocapsid (N) protein of swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV). The optimal antibody pair for constructing the fluorescent microsphere-based immunochromatographic assay (FM-ICA) was determined through systematic pairwise screening. Critical parameters of the FM-ICA test strip, including antibody labeling concentration, coating concentration, incubation time, and sample dilution ratio, were subsequently optimized. Analytical performance characteristics of the developed FM-ICA were then rigorously evaluated. Finally, clinical validation was conducted by parallel testing of 72 field samples using both FM-ICA and quantitative PCR (qPCR), followed by concordance rate analysis.

Results

First, we demonstrated that all four monoclonal antibodies exhibited favorable immunogenicity and specificity. Subsequently, mAb 12E1 was identified as the coating antibody, and mAb 5G12 was selected as the labeled antibody, forming the optimal combination for FM-ICA preparation. After optimization, the ideal parameters were determined: a labeling concentration of 200 μg/mg for antibodies, a coating concentration of 1 mg/mL, an incubation time of 10 min, and a dilution factor of 10. The FM-ICA exhibited outstanding specificity, sensitivity, reproducibility, and stability, achieving a maximum detectable dilution factor of 1280 and a limit of detection (LOD) of 78 PFU mL⁻¹. Finally, the concordance rate between FM-ICA and qPCR for clinical samples reached 97.22%.

Discussion

These results indicate that FM-ICA is an excellent POCT technology that can be used for the early diagnosis of SADS-CoV, providing support for disease prevention and treatment.
Major antigenic differences in Aeromonas salmonicida isolates correlate with the emergence of a new strain causing furunculosis in Chilean salmon farms
Authors: Mancilla Marcos , Ojeda Adriana , Yuivar Yassef , Grandón Maritza , Grothusen Horst , Oyarzún Marcela , Bisquertt Alejandro , Ugalde Juan A. , Fuentes Francisco , Ibarra Pablo , Bustos Patricio
Published: February 2025

Aeromonas salmonicida is the etiological agent of furunculosis, a septicemic disease with high mortality rates affecting salmonids and other teleost species worldwide. Reviewing molecular diagnostic protocols for routine diagnostics, we realized that the amplification of the vapA target gene failed in some cases of furunculosis. Therefore, we hypothesized that the emergence of a new strain may be involved in recent outbreaks. In this work, we demonstrate that the vapA locus is absent in the new strain, which explains why it lacks the major membrane component VapA protein, a critical virulence factor. In addition, we found that the vapA-absent strain differs from its counterparts in outer membrane protein and lipopolysaccharide profiles, suggesting profound changes at the membrane structure level and in antigenic properties. These features along with sequence analysis information allowed us to infer that a complex genomic rearrangement, probably an indel encompassing the entire vapA locus, gave rise to this membrane phenotype. Although the causes for pathogen evolution and emergence were not fully elucidated, our results strongly suggest that the vapA-absent strain is responsible for a raising proportion of recent furunculosis cases, and that it may be related to a less virulent disease and a low serological response upon vaccination with the A. salmonicida antigen formulation currently used in Chile.
Immersive heritage through Gaussian Splatting: a new visual aesthetic for reality capture
Authors: Jamil Osama , Brennan AnnMarie
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates the emerging use of 3D generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) models, particularly Gaussian Splatting (GS), for creating immersive virtual environments in architectural heritage contexts. While traditional methods like photogrammetry have long been used to replicate historical sites, advances in AI-driven tools such as Neural Radiance Fields (NeRFs) and GS have significantly broadened accessibility and creativity in 3D reality capture. Though both technologies have been explored previously for heritage conservation, their usage has always been discussed through the lens of accuracy and precision. The paper challenges these traditional notions and follows a phenomenological methodology that analyses the visual aesthetics and image-making techniques of GS from theoretical and philosophical standpoints. Through the lens of architectural and media theory, the research assesses how GS can transform historical sites into immersive experiences by combining photorealism with artistic expression. The approach is twofold: first, analyzing the visual features and characteristics of GS by documenting, representing, and experiencing a real-life heritage site (The Gatekeeper’s Cottage) through immersive mediums. The results are captured as video recordings and are examined in the results section of the paper. Secondly, the paper includes an in-depth overview of how digital artists use GS technology to evoke memory and atmosphere in virtual heritage spaces through narrative building, VFX, and post-production. The purpose of the study is to offer architects, historians, and heritage professionals a new aesthetic perspective on employing AI-driven models for heritage visualization and immersive environments, that challenge the traditional notions of accuracy and question how these techniques can reveal previously hidden or unobservable architectural features in immersive heritage environments.
Characteristics and risk factors of type I or II endoleaks after thoracic endovascular aortic repair and open surgery
Authors: Zhu Fan , Chen Jia , Guo Yuanyuan , Shu Chang
Published: February 2025

Background

Type I endoleaks (T1ELs) and type II endoleaks (T2ELs) are among the most severe complications that occur after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and open surgery. This investigation aimed to analyze the predictors and multiple risk factors of T1ELs and T2ELs, with a particular focus on the diameter of the false lumen and the pathology of the left subclavian artery (LSA).

Methods

A total of 245 patients (mean age 57 ± 13 years) who had undergone open surgery or TEVAR were recruited and followed for a mean of 18 ± 10 months. Seven patients (2.8%) were classified into the T1EL group, and another seven (2.8%) were classified into the T2EL group. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography of the entire aorta confirmed the diagnosis of aortic disease (e.g., thoracic aortic dissection, thoracic aortic aneurysm, and/or type B intramural hematoma) as well as the presence of T1ELs or T2ELs.

Results

Reoperation was more common in the T1EL group (n = 4; 57%) than in the T2EL group (n = 2; 29%); also, reintervention for stenting of the thoracic endovascular graft was more frequent in the T1EL group (4 vs. 1). In T1EL group, four patients (57%) accepted reoperation due to progressive enlargement of the false lumen’s diameter (aneurysm size > 55 mm) (n = 4; 100%) and sharp, persistent chest and back pain (n = 4; 100%). In the T2EL group, two patients (29%) required reintervention due to the false lumen’s growth rate (>5 mm in diameter per half year) and symptoms of pulmonary vascular compression such as hemoptysis and dyspnea (n = 2; 100%). The median survival rate of patients in the T1EL and T2EL groups was 31 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.0937–11.4] and 30 months (95% CI: 0.08775–10.67), respectively. The proximal opening angle of the LSA (OR 3.141, 95% CI: 2.615–3.773) was significantly associated with the incidence of T1EL. Both the proximal opening angle of the LSA and its diameter were significantly associated with the occurrence of T2ELs.

Conclusions

To prevent the occurrence of T1ELs and T2ELs, appropriate stent grafts and the pathology of the LSA should be carefully considered.
Case Report: “Dumbbell” giant right coronary artery ectasia with right atrial fistula
Authors: Shan Jianggui , Wang Heng , Xue Song
Published: February 2025

A 50-year-old female patient presented with a “dumbbell” giant right coronary artery ectasia, characterized by two artery dilation segments both reaching the level of a giant aneurysm with a normal segment between them. Computed tomography angiography showed a fistula sac in the right atrium. The vessel shape was a typical type IV (localized or segmental) coronary artery ectasia, which is rarely seen on true imaging. The patient had a 3-year history of chest tightness, without dyspnea, worsened by physical activity. Additional tests indicated that she had mitral valve regurgitation, superficial myocardial bridge, and anemia, all of which led to the development of her symptoms. She felt relieved after successful coronary artery fistula repair, mitral valvuloplasty, and fistula sac removal. At the 6-month follow-up, no complications were found according to echocardiography. Patients with coronary aneurysms can be asymptomatic in the early stage, while this case indicates that the dumbbell shape may be a developing stage of giant coronary aneurysm whose origin and close-fistula segments are influenced by separate hydrodynamics during ectasia or aneurysm formation.
Improved prediction of soil shear strength using machine learning algorithms: interpretability analysis using SHapley Additive exPlanations
Authors: Ahmad Mahmood , Al Zubi Mohammad , Almujibah Hamad , Sabri Sabri Mohanad Muayad , Mustafvi Jawad Bashir , Haq Shay , Ouahbi Tariq , Alzlfawi Abdullah
Published: February 2025

The soil’s shear strength is an important parameter that is used frequently throughout the design phase of construction. The conventional method of calculating shear strength in a laboratory is more expensive and time-consuming. This study presents an attempt to develop models for predicting soil shear strength with improved accuracy, particularly Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Gradient Boosting (GB), Adaptive Boosting (AdaBoost), and Categorical Boosting (CatBoost). The Coefficient of determination (R2), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), and Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD) indices were used to validate each of the developed models. The analysis of the results demonstrates that the AdaBoost model achieved a better prediction performance with R2 = 0.99794 and lowest values of RMSE = 0.00400, MAE = 0.00080, MAPE = 0.24390 and MAD = 0.00080 followed by the CatBoost model with R2 = 0.99651, RMSE = 0.00521, MAE = 0.00429. MAPE = 1.33450 and MAD = 0.00429 in the training phase when compared to previous models such as multivariate adaptive regression splines and support vector regression published in the literature. In addition, SHapley Additive Explanations analysis elucidates that the liquidity index has the greatest influence on soil shear strength, followed by wet density.
Computed tomography provides a “one-stop-shop” targeted analysis for coronary artery calcification and osteoporosis: a review
Authors: Luo Jing , Wang Qian , Liu Wenhong , Liao Huazhi , Qing Weipeng , Zhang Minyi , Tang Deqiu , Luo Guanghua , Zhao Heng
Published: February 2025

The global trend towards longer lifespans has led to an aging population and a rise in the prevalence of diseases that predominantly affect elderly people. Coronary artery calcification (CAC) and osteoporosis (OP) are common in elderly populations. CT scans provide a reliable method to assess and monitor the progression of these diseases. In this review, the relationship between OP and CAC in terms of pathophysiological mechanism, comorbidity risk factors and clinical manifestations is reviewed, with a focus on the advancements in CT imaging, clinical applications and the possibility for “one-stop-shop” for examination.
Association between non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and cardiovascular disease mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Li Zhiyu , Xu Hongyang
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHHR) represents an essential lipid index and is closely related to the occurrence and development of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Therefore, this study is intended to further investigate the association between the NHHR index and the mortality rate of CVDs in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

Methods

The research sample was selected from the NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) database, and 5136 individuals were categorized based on quartiles of the NHHR index. Restricted cubic plots and COX regression models were utilized to examine the thresholds and patterns of the NHHR index in relation to the risk of CVDs mortality among T2DM patients as well as those with DKD. Subgroup analyses and p-values were used to evaluate interactions between different variables.

Results

The NHHR index shows a nonlinear association with cardiovascular mortality in two patient groups, following an L-shaped pattern. In individuals with T2DM, a lower NHHR index (<1.68) correlates with an increased risk of death, demonstrating a 72.8% reduction in mortality risk for each unit increase in NHHR below this threshold. Similarly, among patients with DKD, a lower NHHR index (<1.82) is associated with heightened cardiovascular mortality risk, indicating a 48.2% reduction in death risk for each unit increase in NHHR beneath the specified threshold. In patients diagnosed with T2DM, the third quartile of the NHHR index was significantly linked to reduced mortality risk; the association remained consistent even when additional variables were considered [Hazard Ratio (HR), 0.82; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) (0.69-0.97); P=0.019]. Among patients with DKD, cardiovascular mortality was notably higher in the third and fourth quartiles of the NHHR index [Quartile3 HR, 1.57; 95% CI (1.10-2.24), P=0.013; Quartile4 HR, 2.04; 95% CI (1.28-3.26), P=0.003].

Conclusions

The NHHR is below 1.68, and an increase in the NHHR index is associated with a reduced risk of CVD mortality in patients with T2DM. Similarly, when the NHHR falls below 1.82, an elevation in the NHHR index correlates with a decreased risk of CVD mortality in patients with DKD.