bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancing Hydrogel-Based 3D Cell Culture Systems: Histological Image Analysis and AI-Driven Filament Characterization
Authors: Araujo Lucio , Freire Alessandra Maia , Silva Luciano Paulino
Published: December 2024

Background: Machine learning is used to analyze images by training algorithms on data to recognize patterns and identify objects, with applications in various fields, such as medicine, security, and automation. Meanwhile, histological cross-sections, whether longitudinal or transverse, expose layers of tissues or tissue mimetics, which provide crucial information for microscopic analysis. Objectives: This study aimed to employ the Google platform 'Teachable Machine' to apply artificial intelligence (AI) in the interpretation of histological cross-section images of hydrogel filaments. Methods: The production of 3D hydrogel filaments involved different combinations of sodium alginate and gelatin polymers, as well as a cross-linking agent, and subsequent stretching until rupture using an extensometer. Cross-sections of stretched and unstretched filaments were created and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Using the Teachable Machine platform, images were grouped and trained for subsequent prediction. Results: Over six hundred histological cross-section images were obtained and stored in a virtual database. Each hydrogel combination exhibited variations in coloration, and some morphological structures remained consistent. The AI efficiently identified and differentiated images of stretched and unstretched filaments. However, some confusion arose when distinguishing among variations in hydrogel combinations. Conclusions: Therefore, the image prediction tool for biopolymeric hydrogel histological cross-sections using Teachable Machine proved to be an efficient strategy for distinguishing stretched from unstretched filaments.
Morphological and Phytochemical Characterization of Old Ligurian Basil Accessions: Recovery of Old Biodiversity for Future Exploitation
Authors: Betuzzi Federica , Campioli Denise , Malaspina Paola , Rapallo Fabio , Bottino Giovanni , Scrigna Gloria , Minuto Giovanni , Cornara Laura
Published: December 2024

Since the 19th century, cultivation of Ocimum basilicum L. has increasingly been established in Liguria, with in situ reproduction of seeds. Over the years, Ligurian basil accessions were crossed with allochthonous genomes to obtain disease-resistant plants. To preserve the original genetic resource, nine old Ligurian accessions (CV1-9) were recovered. As part of the PSR 2014-2022 Mis. 10.2 of Liguria Region, this work aimed at characterizing these CVs by morphological and phytochemical analyses to safeguard their biodiversity. Commercial O. basilicum Genovese Superbo grown in Liguria (SL) was added for comparison. Micro-morphological investigation showed a significantly different trichomes density among the samples. CV4 showed the highest density of both peltate and capitate trichomes, while CV9 and CV1 had the lowest one of peltate and capitate, respectively. VOCs analysis was performed on CV1-9, SL and on a plant of Superbo grown in Piedmont (SP), to test the influence of the territory on basil aromatic profile. Indeed, the old accessions and SL were rich in linalool, eugenol, and bergamotene. Only CV1 slightly differed for higher levels of methyl eugenol, eucalyptol, and camphor. On the contrary, SP had very high levels of methyl eugenol and camphor. This data represents valuable insights for preserving Ligurian old basil accessions and maintaining Genovese Basil PDO production in the future.
Optimization of In-Situ Growth of Al/InAs Hybrid Systems on GaAs for the Development of Quantum Electronic Circuits
Authors: Kirti Magdhi , Sütő Máté , Tóvári Endre , Makk Péter , Prok Tamás , Csonka Szabolcs , Banerjee Pritam , Rajak Piu , Ciancio Regina , Plaisier Jasper R. , Parisse Pietro , Biasiol Giorgio
Published: December 2024

Hybrid systems consisting of highly transparent channels of low-dimensional semiconductors between superconducting elements allow the formation of quantum electronic circuits. They are therefore among the novel material platforms which could pave the way to scalable quantum computation. To this aim, InAs two-dimensional electron gases are among the ideal semiconductor systems due to their vanishing Schottky barrier; however, their exploitation is limited by the unavailability of commercial lattice-matched substrates. We show that in-situ growth of super-conducting aluminum on near-surface InAs metamorphic 2DEGs can be performed by Molecular Beam Epitaxy on GaAs substrates with state-of-the art quality. Adaptation of the metamorphic growth protocol has allowed to reach low-temperature electron mobilities up to 1.3×10^5 cm^2/Vs in Si-doped InAs/In0.81Ga0.19As 2DEGs placed 10 nm from the surface with charge density up to 1×10^12/cm2. Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations on Hall bar structures show well-developed quantum Hall plateaus including the Zeeman split-features. XRD and cross-sectional TEM experiments demonstrate the coexistence of (011) and (111) crystal domains in the Al layers. Resistivity of 10-nm-thick Al films as a function of temperature was comparable to the best Al layers on GaAs, and superconducting proximity effect was observed in a Josephson junction.
Offloaded Computation for QoS Routing in WSNs
Authors: Mostafa Basma , Molnar Miklos
Published: December 2024

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are commonly used to gather and transmit data to an application. These applications may have specific Quality of Service (QoS) requirements, such as delay, jitter, and packet loss, etc. In large networks, data transmission to a sink node requires multi-hop routing. It is important to understand how routing protocols designed for WSNs can meet QoS requirements that involve multiple constraints, typically end-to-end constraints. Our paper briefly analyzes a set of protocols, including the standardized Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL). In RPL, a Destination-Oriented Directed Acyclic Graph (DODAG) is used to transmit data from sources to a border router. The routing structure is computed based on an Objective Function, which may be defined for a single QoS metric and not reflect multiple constraints. An analysis of QoS-constrained routes is proposed to demonstrate that multi-constrained QoS routes from sensors to the sink do not always form an incast tree. Instead, a hierarchy, which is a generalization of trees, is the appropriate route. QoS-aware hierarchies can be implemented by a set of DODAGs. However, due to the complexity of computation, the protocols must be adapted accordingly to ensure practical implementation. We propose offloading the hard computation tasks to edge servers.
The Effect of Peri-Implant Therapy on the Expression of Th17-Related Cytokines in Patients with Peri-Implant Mucositis and Peri-Implantitis: A Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Gonçalves Lissya T. C. , Teixeira Glaucia S , da SIlva Alexandre M P , Telles Daniel M , Figueredo² Carlos Marcelo S , Lourenço Eduardo J V , Teixeira Mayla K S
Published: December 2024

Background: Cytokines related to the Th17 response have been associated with pe-ri-implant diseases, however, the effect of peri-implant therapy on their modulation remains un-derexplored. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of peri-implant therapy on the expression of cyto-kines related to the Th17 response in the peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) (GM-CSF, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12(p70), IL-17A, IL-21, IL-23, and TNF-α) of partially edentulous pa-tients with peri-implant disease (PID). Methods: Thirty-seven systemically healthy individuals presenting peri-implant mucositis (PIM) (n = 20) or peri-implantitis (PI) (n = 17) were treated and evaluated at baseline (T0) and three months after therapy (T1). Clinical parameters (probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index, and bleeding on probing index (BoP) were evaluated. The PIM group underwent non-surgical therapy, while the PI group received a surgical approach. PICF was collected with absorbent paper strips and analyzed with a multiplex assay. Results: Eighty-eight implants were treated in 37 patients (56 in the PIM group and 32 in the PI group). After therapy, significant reductions in PD, CAL, plaque index, and BoP were ob-served in the PIM group (p < 0.05). In the PI group, significant reductions in PD, CAL, and BoP were noted (p < 0.05). The PIM group showed a significant reduction of IL-17A and TNF-α after therapy, while the PI group showed a significant reduction of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The peri-implant therapy for patients with PID reduced the expression of cytokines related to the Th17 response in PICF.
Development of a Novel Anti-Erythropoietin-Producing Hepatocellular Receptor B6 Monoclonal Antibody Eb6Mab-3 for Flow Cytometry
Authors: Tanaka Tomohiro , Kaneko Yu , Yamamoto Haruto , Li Guanjie , Fujisawa Shiori , Satofuka Hiroyuki , Shinoda Keisuke , Nakamura Takuya , Kaneko Mika K , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Kato Yukinari
Published: December 2024

Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptor B6 (EphB6) is a member of the largest Eph subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinases. EphB6 is widely expressed in various tissues and regulates cellular homeostasis by interacting with its membrane-bound ephrin ligands and other receptors. EphB6 is involved in cancer pathology despite lacking kinase activity. Therefore, developing sensitive monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for EphB6 has been desired for treatment, diagnosis, and further analysis of EphB6. This study established a novel specific and sensitive anti-human EphB6 mAb clone Eb6Mab-3 (mouse IgG1, kappa) by the Cell-Based Immunization and Screening (CBIS) method. In flow cytometry, Eb6Mab-3 demonstrated reactivity with EphB6-overexpressed Chinese hamster ovary-K1 cells (CHO/EphB6) and endogenously EphB6-expressing DLD-1 colorectal cancer cells. Cross-reactivity of Eb6Mab-3 was not observed. Eb6Mab-3 demonstrated a moderate binding affinity (dissociation constant; KD) for CHO/EphB6 (KD: 3.8×10-8 M) and a high binding affinity for DLD-1 (KD: 1.9×10-9 M). Eb6Mab-3 can detect EphB6 protein in CHO/EphB6 lysate in western blot. Therefore, Eb6Mab-3, established by the CBIS method, could be valuable for analyzing the EphB6-associated cellular functions and has potential applications in diagnosis and treatment with specificity and high affinity for cancer cells.
Consumer Sustanability: Is Knowledge Linked to Behavior in Recycling?
Authors: Xiao Jing Jian , Rafiee Parisa , Xia Feihong , Wu Jing
Published: December 2024

Sustainable consumer behavior encompasses any action that benefits both the environment and society. Recycling is a prime example of such behavior. However, there's a lack of research examining the connection between knowledge about recycling and recycling behavior. The purpose of this study is to examine factors associated with consumer recycling behavior under the guidance of an extended theory of planned behavior with an emphasis on the role of recycling knowledge. With data collected from a national online survey in the U.S., results from the structure equation modeling show that ascription of responsibility to others is negatively, while social motivation and behavior skill are positively associated with recycling behavior. Also, both subjective and objective knowledge measures are positively associated with recycling behavior. In addition, subjective recycling knowledge moderates the relationships between attitude and recycling behavior, and between personal motivation and recycling behavior.
Assessing Tourism Destination in Argentina and Neighboring Countries
Authors: Shaikhon Ahmed
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this paper is to assess the several variables affecting tourist arrival in Argentina, Also Argentina, known for its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes, is a favourite destination for tourists seeking to experience the best of South America. This research explores the factors affecting tourist arrivals to Argentina using the Quantitative method through statistical processes to model and analyze the relationship between tourist arrivals to Argentina and relevant variables such as tourist income, having a common religion between Argentina and neighbouring countries Chile, Bolivia, and Brazil, having a common religion, government effectiveness and political stability, although income in Argentina and Tourist Income in neighbouring countries Chile, Bolivia, and Brazil. The results of this study indicate that an increase in Argentina's income level enhances international tourism arrivals, and an increase in tourist income and neighbouring countries Chile, Bolivia, and Brazil suggests an increase in the number of tourists visiting Argentina. The government's effectiveness and Political Stability in Argentina developed the Underlying ICT infrastructure and broad ICT adoption together with improved air infrastructure, are imperative for the travel and tourism sector.
Analysis of Maternity Rights Perception: Impact of Maternal Care in Diverse Socio-Health Contexts
Authors: Silva-Fernández Claudia Susana , Camacho Paul Anthony , de la Calle María , Arribas Silvia M. , Garrosa Eva , Ramiro-Cortijo David
Published: December 2024

Maternity rights are perceived and fulfilled differently according to women’s psychosocial characteristics, leading to varying maternal experiences and outcomes. It is necessary to know the impact of cultural context, emotional well-being, and resource availability on the maternal woman's clinical care experience. The aim is to identify if these factors contribute to disparities in the perception of maternity rights fulfillment in Spain and Colombia. This was a retrospective observational study focus on women who received healthcare during maternity in Spain or Colombia. A total of 185 women were selected (Spanish=53; Colombian=132). It was recorded social and obstetric history, and resilience, positive and negative affect, derailment, and maternity beliefs. It also evaluated the women's knowledge of healthcare rights (MatCODE), the perception of resource scarcity (MatER), and the fulfillment of maternity rights (FMR). The C-section was significantly more prevalent in Colombia and had higher score in maternity beliefs as a sense of life and as a social duty than Spanish women. The FMR was higher in Spanish context. Women in Colombia perceived lower social support and participation in medical treatment. The FMR was correlated with positive affect, MatCODE, and MatER. The FMR models detected negative factors such as giving birth in Colombia (β=-0.30 [-0.58; -0.03]), previous miscarriages (β=-0.32 [-0.54; -0.09]), exposure to a C-section in the last labor (β=-0.46 [-0.54; -0.0]) and the MatER, and positive factors such as gestational age, women age and previous C-section (β=0.39 [0.11; 0.66]). The perception of the fulfillment of maternity rights depends on socio-healthcare contexts, women age, obstetric history, and resources. It is suggested to apply culturally sensitive strategies focused on women's needs in terms of information, emotional and social support, privacy and autonomy to manage a positive experience.
Valproic Acid and Lamotrigine Differentially Modulate the Telomere Length in Epilepsy Patients
Authors: Sánchez-Badajos Salvador , Ortega-Vázquez Alberto , López-López Marisol , Monroy-Jaramillo Nancy
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Antiseizure drugs (ASDs) are the primary therapy for epilepsy and the choice varies according to the seizure type. Epilepsy patients experience chronic mitochondrial oxidative stress and increased levels of pro-inflammatory mediators, recognizable hallmarks of biological aging, however few studies have explored aging markers in epilepsy. Herein, we addressed for the first time the impact of ASDs on molecular aging by measuring telomere length (TL) and mtDNA copy number (mtDNA-CN). Methods: Using QPCR, in epilepsy patients compared to matched healthy controls (CT), and its association with plasma levels of ASDs and other clinical variables. The sample comprised 64 epilepsy patients and 64 CT. Patients were grouped on monotherapy with lamotrigine (LTG) or valproic acid (VPA), and those treated with a combination therapy (LTG+VPA). Multivariable logistic regression was applied to analyze obtained data. Results: mtDNA-CN was similar between patients and controls, and none of the comparisons were significant for this marker. TL was shorter in not seizure-free patients than CT (1.50±0.35 vs. 1.68±0.34, p<0.05), regardless of the ASD therapy. These patients exhibited the highest proportion of adverse drug reactions. TL was longer in patients on VPA monotherapy, followed by patients on LTG monotherapy and by patients on LTG+VPA combined scheme (1.77±0.24; 1.50±0.32; 1.36±0.37 respectively, p<0.05), suggesting that ASD treatment differentially modulates TL. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that clinicians could consider TL measurements to decide the best ASD treatment option (VPA and/or LTG) to help predict ASD response in epilepsy patients.
Fractional Analytic QCD: The Recent Results
Authors: Kotikov Anatoly , Gabdrakhmanov Ilnur , Gramotkov Nikita , Teryaev Oleg , Volkova Daria , Zemlyakov Ivan
Published: December 2024

In this work, we present an overview of fractional analytic QCD in the spacelike (Euclidean) and timelike regions, which significantly improves the coupling constant in perturbative QCD. The obtained results are applied to the description of the Higgs boson decay into a bottom-antibottom pair and the polarized Bjorken sum rule. For the latter, an additional modification is proposed to combine the fitting curve with the condition for photoproduction.We found good agreement between the experimental data obtained for the polarized Bjorken sum rule and the predictions of analytic QCD, as well as a strong difference between these data and the results obtained in the framework of perturbative QCD. To satisfy the limit of photoproduction and take into account GerasimovDrell-Hearn and Burkhardt-Cottingham sum rules, we develope new representation of the perturbative part of the polarized Bjorken sum rule. We present an overview of fractional analytic QCD and its application for Higgs-boson decay into a bottom-antibottom pair and the description of the polarized Bjorken sum rule. The results shown here have been recently obtained in Refs. [18,19,21,22]. This study is dedicated to the description of the polarized Bjorken sum rule, based on recently derived formulas within the analytic QCD approach. To accommodate the photoproduction limit and incorporate the Gerasimov-Drell-Hearn and Burkhardt-Cottingham sum rules, we develop a new representation for the twist-2 part of the Bjorken sum rule. The derived results were applied for processing of experimental data. We observed a good agreement between the experimental data and the predictions from analytic QCD. In contrast, there is a significant discrepancy between these data and the fitting curves within the standard perturbative approach.
Understanding the Utilization of Indigenous Institutions: The Case of Wonosobo, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Swaningrum Ayu , De Snoo Geert R. , Persoon Gerard A. , Musters C.J.M.
Published: December 2024

Indigenous institutions may play a vital role in sustainable development at the local level by serving the people’s interests and supporting their livelihood. By spreading structured questionnaires to the households in our research area, this research aims to find the determinant factor of the utilization of community institutions, especially the indigenous institutions. Per household, 26 features, including demographic, psycho-social, economic, and location variables, were collected to study the predictability of the utilization of the community institutions. The results show that the location variables are the most crucial for explaining the utilization of the community institutions in times of need.
Hybrid Optimization Software with Big Data
Authors: Quispe Velasco Nelson Jhoel , Quispe Chura Rocio Cristel
Published: December 2024

This article presents the development of a hybrid optimization software designed for inventory management in supermarkets, leveraging Big Data and advanced algorithms. The system integrates Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Genetic Algorithms (GA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) to address critical variables such as current stock, monthly demand, unit cost, and sales price. By combining predictive analytics with optimization techniques, the software reduces costs, enhances decision-making accuracy, and prevents overstocking or stockouts. The results demonstrate significant improvements in efficiency, offering a robust and adaptive solution for dynamic market conditions and promoting sustainability in inventory management.
Apical Periodontitis and Maxillary Sinus Alterations: Results of an Exploratory Cross-Sectional Tomographic In Vivo Study
Authors: Coutinho Thaïs , Gonçalves Lucio de Souza , Alves Marilia Marceliano , Figueiredo Vivian Ronquete , Lima-Junior Josué da Costa , Peres Rafael Vidal , Vidal Fábio
Published: December 2024

Odontogenic sinusitis is a highly prevalent, yet, frequently overlooked condition. Since anatomically, the roots of upper molars and premolars may be in close proximity with the maxillary sinus, apical periodontitis affecting these teeth may be the responsible for the development of sinus membrane thickening and odontogenic sinusitis. The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to assess the relationship between images suggesting apical periodontitis and maxillary sinus alterations. One-hundred and thirty CBCTs of the posterior maxilla were examined for the presence of apical radiolucent lesions and thickening of the sinus membrane. The relationship between the distance of the lesions to the sinus and the prevalence of sinus alterations were described and compared. In the sample studied, 16.12% and 45.96% of the sinuses presented images suggesting mucositis and sinusitis respectively. The mere presence of radiolucent apical images was not related to sinus alterations. However, it was observed that in the groups in which the lesion was closer to the sinus, the prevalence of mucosal thickening and sinusitis was higher. Thus, it can be concluded that, in cases where images suggesting apical periodontitis are closely related to the sinus floor, the prevalence of sinus altera-tions similar to mucositis or sinusitis is greater.
Advancing Real Estate Forecasting: A Novel Approach Using Kolmogorov-Arnold Networks (KANs)
Authors: Viktoratos Iosif , Tsadiras Athanasios
Published: December 2024

Implementing models able to estimate house values accurately is a great challenge for real estate market stakeholders. This concerns homeowners, buyers and sellers, real estate agents and policymakers. This paper presents a powerful novel approach to this problem by utilizing a model based on Kolmogorov-Arnold Networks (KANs). KAN Networks are Neural Networks (NNs) based on Kolmogorov-Arnold theorem which is a mathematical concept with wide applicability. The experimental findings indicate that the KAN-based model can be used to predict housing prices with great success. Two different datasets were used to test the validity of the KAN model, and the results show that the model can outperform existing state-of-the-art methods that are used to predict house prices. One of the key contributions of this study is that by achieving more precise house price forecasts, the model can support better decision-making processes for various real estate stakeholders. Furthermore, the findings suggest the broader applicability of Kolmogorov-Arnold Networks beyond just real estate. This modeling approach holds promise for addressing other complex prediction tasks in data science. Overall, this study presents an innovative solution to the longstanding challenge of accurate house price estimation. The strong performance of the KAN model underscores its potential to deliver tangible benefits for the real estate industry and beyond.
Direct Expression of CPT1a Enables a High Throughput Platform for the Discovery of CPT1a Modulators
Authors: Chen Jason , Tran Tuyen , Wong Anthony , Wang Luofei , Annaluru Pranavi , Sreekanth Vibha , Murthy Samika , Munjeti Laasya , Park Tanya , Bhat Utkarsh , Leong Glynnis , Li Yumeng , Chen Simeng , Kong Natalie , Raval Rushika , Xie Yining , Somani Shreya , Bhambhani Aditi , Zhu Zoey , Chu Landen , Dosch Kimai , Njoo Edward , Chen Zhan
Published: December 2024

Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1), which catalyzes the rate-limiting step of fatty acid oxidation, has been implicated in therapeutic approaches to several human diseases characterized by aberrant lipid metabolism. Isoform-specific quantification of CPT1 activity is essential in the characterization of small molecule inhibitors of CPT1, but several existing means to quantify enzymatic activity, including the use of radioisotope labeled carnitine, are not amenable to scalable, high throughput screening. Here, we demonstrate that mitochondrial extracts from Expi293 cells transfected with a CPT1a plasmid are a reliable and robust source of catalytically active human CPT1. Moreover, with a source of catalytically active enzyme in hand, we modified a previously reported colorimetric method of coenzyme A (CoA) easily scalable to a 96-well format for the screening of CPT1a inhibitors. This assay platform was validated by two previously reported inhibitors of CPT1a: R-etomoxir and perhexiline. To further demonstrate the applicability of this method in small molecule screening, we prepared and screened a library of 87 known small molecule APIs, validating the inhibitory effect of chlorpromazine on CPT1.
Rabies Virus Detection in the Common Vampire Bat Desmodus rotundus, Ceará, Brasil
Authors: Moura Francisco Pinheiro , Teixeira Maria Fátima , Teixeira Bruno Marques
Published: December 2024

The common vampire bat, Desmodus rotundus, subsists on the blood of other animals, thus playing a significant role in the life cycle of rabies., This disease wreaks havoc on livestock and can impact other domestic animals, including humans. Given its role in the transmission of rabies, D. rotundus has become a focal point of studies necessitating elucidation regarding the circulation of the rabies virus. The purpose of this study was to examine the distribution of the rabies virus and comprehend its immunological dynamics in D. rotundus. One hundred and thirty four specimens were sampled in the municipalities of Potiretama, Tauá and Granja, where cases of rabies in herbivores were confirmed. The specimens underwent Direct Immunofluorescence and Mouse Inoculation Tests. For those samples diagnosed positive, RT-PCR was recommended. Out of the total number of bats diagnosed, only one tested positive. Although there was no significant circulation of the rabies virus observed in D. rotundus, it seems this species can restrict immune responses, thereby preventing rabies immunopathology. Thus, this research serves as a valuable tool for understanding the immunological dynamics, preservation, and circulation of the rabies virus in D. rotundus.
Outcomes of Broader Genomic Profiling in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: a Portuguese Cohort Study
Authors: Roque Ricardo , Santos Rita , Santos Luis Guilherme , Coelho Rita , Fernandes Isabel , Varela Cunha Gonçalo , Gonçalves Marta , Fraga Teresa , Paulo Judy , Bonito Nuno
Published: December 2024

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed cancer globally and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite advancements, metastatic CRC (mCRC) has a five-year survival rate below 20%. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) can identify rare actionable mutations and assess tumour mutational burden (TMB), but its clinical utility in mCRC is debated due to limited survival improvement and cost-effectiveness concerns. Methods: This retrospective study included mCRC patients (≥18 years) treated at a single oncology center who underwent NGS during treatment planning. Tumour samples were analyzed using either a 52-gene Oncomine™ Focus Assay or a 500+ gene Oncomine™ Comprehensive Assay Plus. Variants were classified by clinical significance (ESMO ESCAT) and potential benefit (ESMO-MCBS and OncoKBTM). Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses evaluated survival outcomes, with significance at p<0.005. Results: Eighty-six metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients were analysed, all MMR proficient. Most cases (73.3%) underwent sequencing at metastatic diagnosis, using primary tumour samples (74.4%) and a focused NGS assay (75.6%). A total of 206 somatic variants were detected in 86.0% of patients, 31.1% of which were classified as clinically significant, predominantly KRAS mutations (76.6%), with G12D and G12V variants as the most frequent. Median overall survival (OS) was 39.5 months, with no single mutation predictive of OS. Among 33.7% RAS/BRAF wild-type patients, 65.5% received anti-EGFR therapies. Eleven patients (12.8%) had other actionable variants ESCAT level I-II, including four identified as TMB-high, four KRAS G12C, two BRAF V600E and one HER2 amplification. Four received OncoKbTM level 1-2 and ESMO-MCBS score 4, leading to disease control in three cases. Conclusions: NGS enables the detection of rare variants, supports personalized treatments, and expands therapeutic options. As new drugs emerge and genomic data integration improves, NGS is poised to enhance real-world mCRC management.
The Comparative Analysis of Agronomic Characters and Phenolic Composition of Blue Honeysuckle Berries (Lonicera caerulea L.) Cultivated in Central Yakutia
Authors: Okhlopkova Marianna , Prokopiev Ilia , Sleptsov Igor , Pikula Konstantin
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the agronomic characteristics and phenolic composition of ten varieties of blue honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) cultivated in Central Yakutia. The research was prompted by the nutritional needs of the local population, particularly during the long winters when vitamin sources are scarce. The varieties included in the study were bred at various research institutes, with 'Goluboe Vereteno' serving as a standard due to its recommendation for the region. The study was conducted over the 2022-2023 vegetation seasons in Pokrovsk, Yakutia, focusing on identifying promising varieties that exhibit high yield, favorable taste, and significant polyphenolic content, which are essential for nutritional benefits. The findings highlight the potential of honeysuckle as a valuable crop in the region, contributing to local food security and agricultural diversity. The research underscores the growing interest in honeysuckle cultivation, which has gained traction in various countries, including Canada and Japan, where it is recognized for its health benefits and adaptability to different climates. Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of honeysuckle's agronomic potential in extreme northern conditions.
Nursing Education in Albania and Comparison with International Experiences: A Systematic Review
Authors: DERVISHI Alketa , KIKA Etleva , BEZHANI Valbona , IMAMI Lelcaj Alma , ZYBERAJ Flora
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Nursing education is essential for preparing skilled health professionals capable of addressing public health challenges effectively. In Albania, aligning with international standards has brought significant changes to the nursing education system, yet challenges persist due to limited resources and the demand for diversified competencies. Comparing Albania's nursing education system with international experiences can provide valuable insights for enhancing its quality. This review examines the evolution of nursing education in Albania by comparing educational models and practices with international frameworks to identify strategies for improving nursing education in the Albanian context. Methods: A systematic review was conducted using major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and ProQuest, covering the period from 2014 to 2024. Peer-reviewed studies in English and Albanian focusing on educational models, professional skills, and nursing education in Albania or globally were included. Study quality was assessed using the CASP criteria. Results: Seven studies were selected, highlighting critical aspects of nursing education, including health literacy, professional self-efficacy, clinical skills, guideline adoption, and e-learning programs. Findings indicate that effective nursing education should integrate health literacy to enhance patient communication, leverage online learning to address geographical disparities, and diversify clinical experiences to prepare nurses for complex healthcare environments. Conclusions: This review underscores the importance of evidence-based educational frameworks and standardized guidelines for advancing nursing education in Albania. The adoption of international strategies, such as incorporating health literacy and e-learning, can enhance educational outcomes, improve the quality of care, and foster a more resilient healthcare system capable of meeting population needs.
Effects of Source on Nitrogen Uptake, Allocation Patterns and Performance of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.): A 15N-Tracer Study
Authors: Salisu Jibia Sirajo , Panjama Kanokwan , Inkham Chaiartid , Ruamrungsri Soraya , Sato Takashi , Ohtake Norikuni
Published: December 2024

Nitrogen (N) is an essential determinant of strawberry growth and productivity. However, plants exhibit varying preferences for nitrogen sources, which ultimately affects its use efficiency. Thus, it is imperative to determine the preferred N source for the optimization of indoor strawberry production. This study employed the ¹⁵N-tracer technique to investigate the effects of N sources on N uptake, distribution, use efficiency and growth of 'Praratchatan 80' strawberries in a greenhouse. Five treatments were applied: T1 (5.0 mM ¹⁵NO₃⁻), T2 (2.5 mM ¹⁵NO₃⁻ + 2.5 mM NH₄⁺), T3 (5.0 mM ¹⁵NH₄⁺), T4 (2.5 mM ¹⁵NH₄⁺ + 2.5 mM NO₃⁻), and T5 (N-free, control) in a completely randomized design. Significant (p < 0.05) differences were observed in N uptake, distribution, and total N concentration among treatments. Sole NH₄⁺ promoted early N uptake and accelerated flowering, while NO₃⁻ enhanced vegetative growth and later-stage N use efficiency (NUE). The combined NO₃⁻ and NH₄⁺ application was most efficacious, balancing the benefits of both N forms. NO₃⁻ treatment enhanced ¹⁵NUE by 46% compared to NH₄⁺, and mixed N sources demonstrated superior and consistent ¹⁵NUE over time. NH₄⁺ alone or with NO₃⁻ expedited flowering by 20 days compared to sole NO₃⁻ and N-free treatments. This study elucidates the importance of N sources for optimizing strawberry growth and flowering, providing a foundation for developing tailored N management strategies. Future research should focus on refining mixed N application ratios and timings, exploring molecular mechanisms of N metabolism, and evaluating long-term impacts on strawberry production sustainability.
The Spatiotemporal Evolution of Ecosystem Service Value in Jiuquan City
Authors: Shao Simin , Li Wei , Yan Zhengang , Zhou Weiguang
Published: December 2024

To explore the spatio-temporal variation and transfer of ecosystem service value (ESV) in Jiuquan City from 2005 to 2020 to help ecological development. Based on the equivalent factor method and grid analysis to analyze the spatial and temporal changes in the value of ecosystem services in Jiuquan City, the fracture point model and field strength model were applied to calculate the transfer of ecological service value in seven districts and counties of Jiuquan City.From 2005 to 2020, the ESV of Jiuquan City showed an overall increasing trend, and all individual ESVs showed an increasing trend, with the ESV of regulating services showing the most significant growth. The top three secondary ESVs are: hydrological regulation, climate regulation, and environmental purification. The value of regulating services accounts for the largest share, followed by support services, supply services and cultural services. From 2005 to 2020, the distribution of high and low ESV zones in Jiuquan City does not change significantly, with the high value zones mainly located in Sujhou District, south of Suebei County and Yumen City, and the low value zones are concentrated in Dunhuang City, Guazhou County, north of Suebei County and Jinta County. The ESVs shifted outward from each district in the study area were, in descending order, Guazhou County, Subei County, Yumen City, Dunhuang City, Akse County, Jinta County, and Suzhou District. Guazhou and Subei counties were the main ESV exporters. Areas with high ESV exports tended to have high ESV values. Hydrologic regulation is the service type with the largest transfer volume, accounting for 19.00% of the total ESV transfer in Jiuquan City. The ecological condition of Jiuquan City is good.
From Pressure to Performance, and Health Risks Control: Occupational Stress Management and Employee Engagement in Higher Education
Authors: Khan Ali Junaid Junaid , Yar Shahar , Fayyaz Sana , Adamopoulos Ioannis , Syrou Niki , Jahangir Asifa
Published: December 2024

In the higher educational sector, teachers are facing different kinds of occupational crises that are important to consider for their better performance and improvement in the working environment and provide health risk control. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence mechanism and countermeasures for occupational pressure reduction on teachers' work engagement in the higher education sector. The data was collected by using a quantitative design and 400 questionnaires were distributed to the target respondents. The study concludes that fostering employee collaboration, technological innovation, and leadership support contributes to reduction in occupational stress, and provide health risks control. Moreover, occupational stress reduction is a strong mediator that acts as a bridge to enhance employee engagement in Higher Educational Institutes (HEIs). The findings of this study provide useful theoretical and practical implications that are important to reduce occupational pressure on the work engagement of teachers’ staff of public and private institutes and provide health risk control. Lastly, this study highlights the further gap in the literature that must be fulfilled by future studies, and research's to contribute to the literature.
Facile Synthesis of Ag/ZnO Nano composites Using Fruit Peels and their Possible Applications
Authors: Mubarik Shamroza , Nawab Aisha , Imran Marryam , Shaheen Aqeela , Kalsoom Ambreen
Published: December 2024

This research work describes the synthesis of Ag-ZnO nanocomposites by combustion method using citrus clementina peels as an effective adsorbent material for removal of dyes. Water is an essential element for life. However, critical environmental issue of 20th century is water scarcity. Water has a wide-ranging effect on all aspects of human life, a serious hazard to public health and stability of food chain. Due to human activities the waste from our industrial, agricultural, and daily activities frequently pollutes the water. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop cost effective and sustainable technologies for the removal of contaminants from waste water. The synthesized nanocomposites were characterized by (FTIR), UV Visible, (XRD) and (SEM). Then tested their potential toward efficient removal of Eosin Y and Congo-Red from waste water by using cost effective Adsorption method. Different parameters i.e., Dosage, Time, Concentration, pH and temperature have been studied. During Linear adsorption isotherm Langmuir and Temkin isotherms are best fitted on the adsorption of Dyes. Thermodynamic and kinetic studies have also done, while Pseudo 2nd order kinetic model showed better agreement as compared with other kinetic models. Thus synthesized Ag-ZnO Nanocomposites confirmed as excellent adsorbent material for waste water treatment.
From Data to Diagnosis: A Deep Dive into Deep Learning for COVID-19 Detection
Authors: Lucrezia Saturnino , Adelmo Marilena , Teodora Livio , Terenzio Buonaterra
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for rapid and accurate diagnostic tools to manage and contain infectious diseases effectively. Deep learning (DL) has emerged as a promising solution for COVID-19 detection, particularly through the analysis of medical imaging modalities such as chest X-rays (CXR) and computed tomography (CT) scans. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art in deep learning for COVID-19 detection, covering key datasets, methodologies, challenges, and future directions.The review discusses widely used datasets, such as the COVID-19 Image Data Collection, BIMCV-COVID19+, and MosMedData, highlighting their strengths and limitations. Common challenges include the scarcity of annotated data, class imbalance, and variations in imaging protocols, all of which hinder model robustness and generalizability. Additionally, issues such as model interpretability, clinical validation, and regulatory approval are examined, emphasizing the importance of explainability and real-world applicability.Promising advancements in synthetic data generation, data augmentation, explainable AI, and federated learning are explored as potential solutions to these challenges. Furthermore, multi-modal and multi-task learning approaches are discussed as avenues for creating comprehensive diagnostic systems that integrate imaging data with clinical and demographic information. The paper also underscores the importance of seamless integration of AI tools into clinical workflows to ensure their practical use in healthcare settings.This review concludes by discussing the broader implications of these technologies beyond COVID-19, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics and prepare for future public health challenges. By addressing current limitations and leveraging collaborative efforts, deep learning can play a pivotal role in enhancing global healthcare systems, ensuring better outcomes for patients and clinicians alike.
Full-scale demonstration of the modernized bridge supplementary set
Authors: Griffin Aaron , Murray Matthew
Published: December 2024

The Overhead Cable System (OCS) serves as the main anchorage system of the Bridge Supplemental Set and is used to hold the Improved Ribbon Bridge (IRB) against river flow. Several improvements have been made to OCS components and employment procedures, theoretically allowing the OCS to operate safely within most environments. However, the modernized OCS had yet to be constructed over an actual river, making it necessary to conduct a full-scale capability demonstration. Range W2 of Camp Ripley was selected as the test site because the 200th Multi-Role Bridge Company agreed to support the demonstration during an ongoing training cycle. A site-reconnaissance trip revealed environmental obstacles on each bank, which made the site a unique test for the modernized OCS. The OCS model, a software package developed to analyze the loading imposed by river drag force on the OCS, was used to design a unique layout that circumvents Camp Ripley’s environmental challenges. The OCS was successfully deployed over Camp Ripley’s wet gap flowing at a river speed of 3.5 ft/s, and the IRB supported vehicular traffic for 3 hr before safe disassembly. Several lessons were learned regarding system deployment, and data were collected to facilitate technical manual development.
A sintaxe em gramáticas filosóficas portuguesas: o caso do complemento
Authors: Marques Raquel do Nascimento
Published: December 2024

A noção de complemento como aquilo que completa o sentido do verbo do qual depende sintaticamente é anterior à emergência deste termo na tradição da gramática portuguesa, em 1799, tanto na Arte da grammatica portugueza, de Figueredo, quanto nos Rudimentos da grammatica portugueza, de Fonseca. De fato, a regência, herdada da gramática latina, desempenha essa função desde as primeiras gramáticas portuguesas. O objetivo é observar não apenas as aproximações e os distanciamentos entre as abordagens desses três autores em comparação com as concepções do gramático iluminista francês Nicolas Beauzée, em sua Grammaire générale (1767), mas também o impacto das ideias desse gramático francês sobre as gramáticas filosóficas portuguesas do século XIX. Assim sendo, pela perspectiva teórico-metodológica da História das ideias linguísticas (Auroux, 2007; Colombat, Fournier, Puech, 2017), buscamos as causas da distinção entre as abordagens e os efeitos que delas resultam, por meio da investigação do horizonte de retrospecção dos autores portugueses e do modo como a noção de complemento é afetada pela temporalidade. O estudo mostra, em primeiro lugar, um intervalo de mais de cinquenta anos em relação ao aparecimento do termo complemento na tradição da gramática francesa, atestado em 1747, na obra Les vrais principes de la grammaire françoise, de Girard. Além disso, considerando que Beauzée define o complemento como aquilo que se junta a uma palavra para mudar ou completar a sua significação, o estudo mostra que Barbosa aproveita as ideias de Beauzée tanto ao conceber o complemento como aquilo que completa ou muda o sentido do termo antecedente como ao apresentar a terminologia da regência coexistindo com aquela do complemento. Quanto a Souza (1804) e a Melo (1818), embora o concebam como uma palavra ou expressão complementar do termo antecedente, o complemento está vinculado ao termo dependência e não ao termo regência, como em Barbosa.
Contribuições do léxico de entretenimentos infantis para a delimitação do Falar Paulista: os registros lexicais no caminho dos tropeiros
Authors: Alencar Beatriz Aparecida
Published: December 2024

Este trabalho se propõe a discutir os resultados obtidos na tese O léxico de brinquedos e brincadeiras infantis no estado de São Paulo (Alencar, 2018) que teve como tarefa descrever o léxico dos entretenimentos infantis e contribuir para possíveis caracterizações e/ou delimitações sobre o falar paulista. A pesquisa utilizou dados coletados pelo Projeto ALiB no estado em foco. Neste estudo, discutiremos as ocorrências que foram documentadas nos pontos de inquéritos próximos ao caminho dos tropeiros, buscando identificar as denominações e caracterizar essa subárea dialetal tendo como base os pressupostos teórico-metodológicos da Dialetologia, da Geolinguística e dos Estudos do Léxico. Ademais, foi considerada para a discussão a relação entre o léxico e a história social das localidades no que se refere à documentação das denominações no espaço geográfico.
Caracterização do contexto escolar de uma comunidade surda do interior paulista: subsídios para práticas pedagógicas e políticas públicas
Authors: Rubio Cássio Florêncio
Published: December 2024

A pesquisa objetiva apresentar uma caracterização do contexto escolar vivenciado pela comunidade surda da região de São Carlos, estado de São Paulo. Para a análise de 30 inquéritos, aplicados a pessoas surdas, empregam-se, principalmente, os pressupostos teóricos da Sociolinguística das línguas de sinais (Lucas, 2004) e da área interdisciplinar dos Estudos Surdos (Quadros, 2017, 2019; Lacerda; Lodi, 2014). Os resultados evidenciam que, no ambiente escolar, uma parcela da comunidade revela ter acesso parcial ou total ao ensino bilíngue e outra parcela aponta não ter nenhum acesso à língua de sinais. A estratificação dos participantes por faixa etária denota um processo de mudança gradual, no qual as políticas públicas têm sido implementadas, gerando, no futuro, como consequência, maior acessibilidade no ambiente escolar.