bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nothing Could Put Me Off: Assessing the Prevalence and Risk Factors for Perceptual Barriers to Improving the Welfare of Brachycephalic Dogs
Authors: Packer Rowena M. A. , Wade Anna , Neufuss Johanna
Published: December 2024

The popularity of brachycephalic dogs has increased worldwide despite growing evidence of their profound health and welfare issues, largely as a result of their extreme conformation. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for known perceptual barriers to improving their welfare. An online survey of n = 2006 UK dog owners was conducted, including owners of non-brachycephalic (non-BC; n = 964), mild-moderate brachycephalic (M-BC; n = 706), and extreme brachycephalic (E-BC; n = 336) dogs. The survey explored contemporary knowledge and attitudes toward brachycephalic dogs, with multivariable statistical analyses identifying risk factors for normalisation of brachycephaly-related abnormalities, preference for flat faces and ‘laziness’ in dogs, and self-reported intractability to being deterred from buying a brachycephalic breed. Almost 1 in 7 E-BC owners considered that there was ‘nothing’ that could dissuade them from buying a brachycephalic dog, predicted by a strong preference for flat faces as a highly desirable aesthetic characteristic and beliefs that brachycephaly did not negatively impact lifespan. E-BC owners were most likely to consider flat faces a highly desirable aesthetic characteristic, predicted by highly valuing ‘laziness’ as a behavioural characteristic. Preference for ‘laziness’ as a behavioural characteristic was predicted by low levels of pre-purchase research and aesthetic preferences (e.g., flat faces, large size). High levels of normalisation of brachycephaly-related abnormalities were observed across all ownership groups, particularly for clinical signs related to exercise intolerance, with these beliefs predicted by deficits in dog acquisition behaviours and knowledge, and intractability from being deterred from purchasing a flat-faced dog. These findings highlight the pervasiveness of perceptual barriers that inhibit campaigning regarding brachycephaly and the need for targeted interventions to address misconceptions (e.g., ‘myth busting’ laziness as a positive trait), while being mindful of the heterogeneity of beliefs within the brachycephalic-owning population, particularly the intractable sub-population to whom shifting preferences away from flat-faced conformations may prove impossible without stronger measures, e.g., legislative change.
Natural Antimicrobial Peptides and Their Synthetic Analogues for Effective Oral Microflora Control and Oral Infection Treatment—The Role of Ceragenins in the Development of New Therapeutic Methods
Authors: Czarnowski Michał , Wnorowska Urszula , Łuckiewicz Milena , Dargiewicz Ewelina , Spałek Jakub , Okła Sławomir , Sawczuk Beata , Savage Paul B. , Bucki Robert , Piktel Ewelina
Published: December 2024

Oral diseases, both acute and chronic, of infectious or non-infectious etiology, represent some of the most serious medical problems in dentistry. Data from the literature increasingly indicate that changes in the oral microbiome, and therefore, the overgrowing of pathological microflora, lead to a variety of oral-localized medical conditions such as caries, gingivitis, and periodontitis. In recent years, compelling research has been devoted to the use of natural antimicrobial peptides as therapeutic agents in the possible treatment of oral diseases. This review focuses on the potential of ceragenins (CSAs), which are lipid analogs of natural antimicrobial peptides, as molecules for the development of new methods for the prevention and treatment of oral diseases. Studies to date indicate that ceragenins, with their spectrum of multidirectional biological activities, including antimicrobial, tissue regeneration-stimulating, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties, are strong candidates for further development of oral formulations. However, many of the beneficial properties of ceragenins require confirmation in experimental conditions reproducing the oral environment to fully determine their application potential. Their transition to practical use also requires more advanced testing of these molecules in clinical trials, which have only been conducted in limited numbers to date.
Clinical Pharmacokinetics of Fexofenadine: A Systematic Review
Authors: Batool Maryam , Zamir Ammara , Alqahtani Faleh , Ahmad Tanveer , Saeed Hamid , Rasool Muhammad Fawad
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Fexofenadine hydrochloride is a widely prescribed drug for treating histamine-mediated allergic reactions. This review systematically collates existing research on the clinical pharmacokinetics (PK) of fexofenadine, with a copious emphasis on examining the impact of stereoisomerism, disease states, and drug interactions. Methods: The search engines PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Cochrane were scanned systematically for articles concerning the clinical PK of fexofenadine in humans. The extensive literature search yielded 85 articles meeting the inclusion standards. Results: The PK parameters of fexofenadine showed a linear correlation between increasing doses and proportional elevations in PK parameters such as area under the curve from time 0 to infinity (AUC0–∞) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax). Under fed conditions, its bioavailability was reduced by approximately 50%. Findings from patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) displayed a 63% decline in oral clearance (CL/F) of fexofenadine. A drug–food interaction study has displayed that grapefruit juice decreased Cmax (201 ng/mL vs. 128 ng/mL), accompanied by a 30% reduction in the bioavailability of fexofenadine. Furthermore, a drug–herb interaction study with St John’s Wort (SJW) has reported a reduction in CL/F by 10% after a single dose, but long-term administration reversed this effect, resulting in elevated CL/F by 17% of fexofenadine. Conclusions: Since no prior systematic review on the PK of this drug exists, this review amalgamates all pertinent PK parameters in humans by pooling up-to-date data from published studies. This detailed literature review can be advantageous for researchers who want to develop and assess PK models.
Curved Holographic Augmented Reality Near-Eye Display System Based on Freeform Holographic Optical Element with Extended Field of View
Authors: Xu Hong , Xu Yuan , Wang Changyu , Liu Juan
Published: December 2024

At present, most near-eye display devices adopt flat substrates, which have problems such as limited field of view (FOV) and bulky shape, while the curved structure is expected to expand the FOV with appropriate volume. In this paper, we propose a curved holographic augmented reality (AR) near-eye display system based on holographic optical element (HOE) with the ability to expand the FOV. The system includes a display source and a HOE with curved substrate. We analyze the system by exploiting the diffraction theory between plane and curved surface, and a layered and weighted FOV optimization method using particle swarm optimization algorithm is proposed to realize the optimization of the phase of freeform HOE. Numerical and experimental results show that the proposed curved holographic near-eye display system can realize cylindrical AR display and expand the FOV of the system. It is expected to be applied to the holographic AR near-eye display in the future.
A Novel Demodulation Algorithm for Micro-Displacement Measurement Based on FMCW Sinusoidal Modulation
Authors: Xu Zhen , Wang Yongjie , Li Zhenqiang , Li Gaochao , Li Ke , Zhang Hongtao , Li Fang
Published: December 2024

Frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) interferometry, an emerging laser interferometry technology, can be applied in the field of fibre-optic sensing to achieve high-precision micro-displacement measurements. To address nonlinearity issues in laser frequency modulation and localisation deviations of feature points in traditional algorithms, this paper proposes a demodulation algorithm suitable for sinusoidal frequency modulation schemes, incorporating the principle of orthogonal phase-locked amplification. The algorithm includes signal preprocessing, phase-locked amplification, error correction, and phase calculation. Experimental results show that the system achieves a measurement error standard deviation of 3.23 nanometres for static targets. The displacement measurement error at 100 μm is 0.057% F.S., and the linearity between the measured values and the actual displacement values is 0.99997. Compared with conventional methods, the approach introduced in this paper eliminates the need for separate nonlinear corrections of the current-to-optical frequency relationship and minimises the issue of feature point localization deviations, showing significant potential for practical applications.
Thermal Resistance Enhancement and Wettability Amelioration of Poly(benzimidazole-aramid) Film by Silica Nanocomposites
Authors: Zhou Jiabei , Zhong Xianzhu , Takada Kenji , Yamaguchi Masayuki , Kaneko Tatsuo
Published: December 2024

Polybenzimidazole (PBI) is a high-performance polymer known for its excellent thermal stability, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance, attributes that are derived from its unique structure comprising repeated benzene and imidazole rings. However, limitations such as relatively low thermal stability and moisture sensitivity restrict its application as a super engineering plastic. In this study, amide groups are incorporated into the PBI backbone to synthesize the copolymer poly(BI-co-A), effecting a structural modification at the molecular level. Additionally, silica nanospheres were composited into the poly(BI-co-A) film to further enhance its thermal performance. The resulting composite films exhibited remarkable thermal stability, with the temperature for 10% weight loss reaching as high as 761 °C. To address increased water absorption due to the high hydrophilicity of hydroxyl groups on the silica nanospheres’ surface, a dehydration treatment was applied in an electric furnace. This treatment produced a highly thermoresistant poly(BI-co-A) nanocomposite film with reduced wettability, making it suitable for applications in humid environments.
Ionomeric Nanofibers: A Versatile Platform for Advanced Functional Materials
Authors: Poddar Mrinal , Chang Yen-Hsiang , Chiu Fang-Chyou
Published: December 2024

The one-dimensional nanomaterials known as nanofibers have remarkable qualities, such as large surface areas, adjustable porosity, and superior mechanical strength. Ionomers, types of polymers, have ionic functional groups that give them special properties, including high mechanical strength, water absorption capacity, and ionic conductivity. Integrating ionomers and nanofibers with diverse materials and advanced methodologies has been shown to improve the mechanical strength, processing capacity, and multifunctional attributes of ionomeric nanofibers. One-dimensional ionomeric nanomaterials offer a versatile platform for developing functional materials with ionic functionalities. This mini review critically examines recent progress in the development of ionomeric nanofibers, highlighting innovative fabrication techniques and their expanding applications across energy storage, environmental remediation, healthcare, advanced textiles, and electronics.
Effect of Ultrafine Water Mist with K2CO3 Additives on the Combustion and Explosion Characteristics of Methane/Hydrogen/Air Premixed Flames
Authors: Zhang Haoliang , Mi Hongfu , Shao Peng , Luo Nan , Liao Kaixuan , Wang Wenhe , Duan Yulong , Niu Yihui
Published: December 2024

To ensure the safe utilization of hydrogen-enriched natural gas (HENG), it is essential to explore effective explosion suppressants to prevent and mitigate potential explosions. This study experimentally investigates the impact of ultrafine water mist containing K2CO3 additives on the explosion characteristics of methane/hydrogen/air premixed combustion. The influence of varying K2CO3 concentrations on pressure rise rates and flame propagation was analyzed across different hydrogen blending ratios. The results demonstrate that the addition of K2CO3 to ultrafine water mist significantly enhances its suppression effects. The peak overpressure decreased by 41.60%, 56.15%, 64.94%, and 72.98%, the flame speed decreased by 30.66%, 70.56%, 46.72%, and 65.65%, and the flame propagation time was prolonged by 25%, 20.83%, 22.92%, and 18.75%, respectively, for different hydrogen blending ratios, showing a similar trend. However, the suppression effectiveness diminishes under high hydrogen blending ratios and low K2CO3 concentrations. Further analysis using thermogravimetric infrared spectroscopy and chemical kinetics simulations revealed that the heat release rate and the generation rate of active free radicals significantly decrease after the addition of K2CO3 to the ultrafine water mist. The recombination cycle of KOH → K → KOH, formed by reactions (R211: K + OH + M = KOH + M) and (R259: H + KOH = K + H2O), continuously combines active free radicals (·O, ·OH) into stable product molecules, such as H2O. However, at low K2CO3 concentrations, reaction R211, which suppresses laminar combustion sensitivity and consumes a larger quantity of active free radicals, does not dominate, leading to a reduced suppression effect of K2CO3 ultrafine water mist. Several factors during the reaction process also adversely affect the performance of K2CO3-containing ultrafine water mist. These factors include the premature onset of laminar flame instability at low K2CO3 concentrations, the increased flame-front propagation speed due to the addition of hydrogen to methane, which shortens the residence time of K2CO3 in the reaction zone, and the turbulence caused by unvaporized droplets.
A Parallel Prognostic Method Integrating Uncertainty Quantification for Probabilistic Remaining Useful Life Prediction of Aero-Engine
Authors: Wang Rongqiu , Zhang Ya , Hu Chen , Yang Zhengquan , Li Huchang , Liu Fuqi , Li Linling , Guo Junyu
Published: December 2024

Remaining useful life (RUL) prediction plays a fundamental role in the prognostics and health management of mechanical equipment. Consequently, extensive research has been devoted to estimating the RUL of mechanical equipment. Owing to the development of modern advanced sensor technologies, a significant amount of monitoring data is recorded. Traditional methods, such as machine-learning-based methods and statistical-data-driven methods, are ineffective in matching when faced with big data thus leading to poor predictions. As a result, deep-learning-based methods are extensively utilized due to their efficient capability to excavate deep features and realize accurate predictions. However, most deep-learning-based methods only provide point estimations and ignore the prediction uncertainty. To address this limitation, this paper proposes a parallel prognostic network to sufficiently excavate the degradation features from multiple dimensions for more accurate RUL prediction. In addition, accurate calculation of model evidence is extremely difficult when dealing with big data so the Monte Carlo dropout is employed to infer the model weights under low computational cost and high scalability to obtain a probabilistic RUL prediction. Finally, the C-MAPSS aero-engine dataset is employed to validate the proposed dual-channel framework. The experimental results illustrate its superior prediction performance compared to other deep learning methods and the ability to quantify prediction uncertainty.
When Law Came to Adam: The Origin Story of Sin and Death in Romans 5
Authors: Kozman Rony
Published: December 2024

In Romans 5, Paul says that prior to law “sin is not counted” (v. 13), and that upon law’s arrival, “the trespass increased” (v. 20). For most interpreters, the law that counted sin and increased the trespass is the law that God revealed to Israel at Sinai. Origen of Alexandria offered significant exegetical objections to this reading and proposed that natural law is in view. I modify Origen’s proposal to align Paul with the early Jewish tradition of Adam’s law, and I argue that “law” in vv. 13a and 20 refers to law’s arrival to Adam. Romans 5:12–21 is Paul’s re-telling of Scripture and chronicles Sin and Death achieving their global reigns. Understood this way, vv. 12–14 and 20–21 tell us what transpired when God’s law came to Adam: Sin and Death united, and they launched and secured their cosmic tyranny. This is Sin and Death’s origin story.
Deificational Hermeneutics as Theological Interpretation: A Theological Exegesis on 2 Peter 1:1–11
Authors: Feng Jacob Chengwei
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the parallel emergence of two theological movements that share ecumenical insights: Theological Interpretation of Scripture (TIS) and deification. It identifies their intrinsic connections to creeds and draws upon their recent scholarly convergence. By highlighting the absence of a robust deificational hermeneutics within the realm of theological interpretation, this paper aims to address that gap by advocating for a deificational hermeneutics that serves the interests of theological interpretation. This argument is founded on three vital theological insights: (1) similar to creeds, the theology of deification is essential to Christian theology with significant ecumenical value, (2) the imago Dei acts as a unifying framework, and (3) readerly formation is central to theological interpretation. Furthermore, through exegetical analysis of 2 Peter 1:1–11, this essay reveals aspects that would remain obscured without the “prism” of deification.
Contextualised, Not Neoliberalised, Approaches to Families in Five Countries: Quality and Practice
Authors: Rogers Marg , Dovigo Fabio , Mus Rasmussen Astrid , Dolidze Khatuna , Doan Laura
Published: December 2024

Partnerships with parents in early childhood education and care services are a hallmark of quality education. Educators in Western countries work within a highly regulated environment, where government documents, such as frameworks, standards, and curricula, direct most of their work, time, and energy. Despite this, data from our mixed methods online survey from Australia, Canada, Denmark, Georgia, and Italy revealed a strong resistance to the homogeneity these documents prescribe. For the quantitative data, we used cross-tabulation and descriptive statistics. For the qualitative data, we used deductive thematic analysis using a parent–educator partnership framework. Educators described parents in their service as partners in their child’s education. This included efforts to share information, consult, negotiate, and build partnerships; problem solve; and monitor, report and manage the partnership. The educators talked about the uniqueness of their approaches to parents and families within their contextualised services. They then revealed how these unique features impacted their notions of quality and practice in these services. This will be of interest to policymakers, educators, and teacher educators.
Italian Sustainable Living—Survey on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviours Among the Italian Population
Authors: Miotto Edoardo , Favero Beatrice , Smaniotto Cecilia , Saramin Anna , Cannone Silvia , Furmenti Maria Francesca , Palandri Lucia , Adamo Giovanna , Voglino Gianluca , Parpinel Maria , Brunelli Laura
Published: December 2024

Education and knowledge are essential for fostering sustainable living, which helps to protect our planet and promote health and socio-economic development. This study investigated sustainable living knowledge and behaviours among the general Italian population. A 40-item questionnaire was created to assess knowledge, awareness, and attitudes in eight domains: house, energy, food, personal care, shopping, transportation, waste, water and other consumption. The questionnaire was distributed online between January and June 2023. A multiple logistic regression model was performed to assess the relationships between all the variables surveyed. Among the 420 people who participated (66% female, median age of 39 years), 76% had a higher-level education degree and 72% had never participated in a sustainability initiative. Knowledge about sustainability was lower in the domains of shopping (70.6%) and transportation (85.0%). The fewest behaviours carried out/products used were found in the domains of personal care (31.3%) and transportation (47.8%). Positive associations were found between the use/adoption of sustainable items and knowledge about sustainability (aOR: 1.38, CI: 1.35–1.41) and previous inherent educational activities (aOR: 1.04, CI: 1.03–1.06). Age, region of residence and urbanisation context were factors that discontinuously influenced the implementation of the considered items for transportation and food. Improvements are needed to close the gap between knowledge and action, especially in the domain of personal care. A better understanding of the factors that play a role in the non-use of transportation will help to develop measures to promote sustainability and societal wellbeing.
Romanian Meat Consumers’ Choices Favour Sustainability?
Authors: Chiurciu Irina-Adriana , Vlad Ionela Mițuko , Stoicea Paula , Zaharia Iuliana , David Livia , Soare Elena , Fîntîneru Gina , Micu Marius Mihai , Dinu Toma Adrian , Tudor Valentina Constanța , Smedescu Dragoș Ion
Published: December 2024

The paper highlights the evolution of meat consumption in Romania between 2007 and 2022 based on statistical data retrieved from the National Institute of Statistics and also presents a recent 2024 diagnosis on Romanian meat consumption from field data acquired through a questionnaire survey to which 1002 people gave valid answers. For the average annual meat consumption in Romania it was found that it varies depending on the category: for beef it was a decreasing trend, for pork the trend was slightly increasing, and the consumption of mutton and goat meat had an insignificant variation. The central place in terms of meat consumption was occupied by poultry (34.78%), which had the most obvious increase. The questionnaire reflected that meat consumption is influenced by multiple factors including: age, income level, level of education, origin of meat etc. In the context of climate and geopolitical change, there is an increasing emphasis on finding alternatives for meat. The largest share of respondents to the questionnaire said that they will continue to consume meat, the rest preferring substitutes obtained from vegetables. Our results and the analysis, correlations and approaches done within this paper could serve as a basis for meat consumption patterns in Romania and may ground future marketing policies and sustainable development strategies in the food industry.
Entrepreneurs in Rural Tourism: Reciprocal Influence of the Environment and Personal Factors on Business Management
Authors: Anzules-Falcones Wendy , Martin-Castilla Juan Ignacio , Tulcanaza-Prieto Ana Belén , Caamana-Gomez Diana
Published: December 2024

Sustainability can be analyzed for companies and the environment in which they operate; additionally, there are reciprocal impacts of companies on the sustainability of their environment and the environment on the sustainability of companies. Against this backdrop, this study aimed to identify the mutual impact of companies and the environment by investigating the case of rural tourism enterprises in an area with unique geographical, historical, and cultural characteristics, namely, the area near the Cotacachi-Cayapas National Park in Ecuador. In addition, it is essential to consider the characteristics of tourism enterprises and the role of personal factors of entrepreneurs. To accomplish this, qualitative research was carried out through in-depth interviews, and the data were subjected to content analysis, demonstrating validity and reliability. This study also complied with the criteria of rigor and transparency since the intention was to understand the mutual impact of tourism enterprises and the environment on sustainability and the associated factors. The results allow us to identify a complementary relationship between enterprises and the tourist space. However, there is also an apparent contradiction in the role of this space, as it was found that this space facilitates the performance of tourism enterprises but can also limit more proactive management in terms of marketing or relations with customers and other actors of the environment due to the attitude of the entrepreneurs; this is the main novel finding and contribution of this study. On the other hand, the family nature of these enterprises exerts positive effects on the motivation to undertake and remain in the business, as well as on ways of approaching teamwork.
Some Addition Theorems for Spin-Weighted Spherical Harmonics
Authors: Monteverdi Alessandro , Winstanley Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

We present some addition theorems for spin-weighted spherical harmonics, generalizing previous results for scalar (spin-zero) spherical harmonics. These addition theorems involve sums over the azimuthal quantum number of products of two spin-weighted spherical harmonics at different points on the two-sphere, either (or both) of which are differentiated with respect to one of their arguments.
Raman, MIR, VNIR, and LIBS Spectra of Szomolnokite, Rozenite, and Melanterite: Martian Implications
Authors: Zhuo Xiai , Zhang Ruize , Shi Erbin , Liu Jiahui , Ling Zongcheng
Published: December 2024

Different sulfates (Ca-, Mg, and Fe- sulfates) have been extensively detected on the Martian surface. As one of the Martian sulfates, the presence of ferrous sulfates will provide valuable clues about the redox environment, hydrological processes, and climatic history of ancient Mars. In this study, three hydrated ferrous sulfates were prepared in the laboratory by heating dehydration reactions. These samples were analyzed using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) to confirm their phase and homogeneity. Subsequently, Raman, mid-infrared (MIR) spectra, visible near-infrared (VNIR) spectra, and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) were measured and analyzed. The results demonstrate that the spectra of three hydrated ferrous sulfates exhibit distinctive features (e.g., the v1 and v3 features of SO42− tetrahedra in their Raman and MIR spectra) that can offer new insights for identifying different ferrous sulfates on Mars and aid in the interpretation of in-situ data collected by instruments such as the Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman & Luminescence for Organics & Chemicals (SHERLOC), SuperCam, and ChemCam, etc.
Non-Parametric Reconstruction of Cosmological Observables Using Gaussian Processes Regression
Authors: Velázquez José de Jesús , Escamilla Luis A. , Mukherjee Purba , Vázquez J. Alberto
Published: December 2024

The current accelerated expansion of the Universe remains one of the most intriguing topics in modern cosmology, driving the search for innovative statistical techniques. Recent advancements in machine learning have significantly enhanced its application across various scientific fields, including physics, and particularly cosmology, where data analysis plays a crucial role in problem-solving. In this work, a non-parametric regression method with Gaussian processes is presented along with several applications to reconstruct some cosmological observables, such as the deceleration parameter and the dark energy equation of state, in order to contribute some information that helps to clarify the behavior of the Universe. It was found that the results are consistent with λCDM and the predicted value of the Hubble parameter at redshift zero is H0=68.798±6.340(1σ)kms−1Mpc−1.
A hTfR1 Receptor-Specific VHH Antibody Neutralizes Pseudoviruses Expressing Glycoproteins from Junín and Machupo Viruses
Authors: Kang Qinglin , Li Gege , Wu Yan , Wang Shaoyan , Chen Zhengshan , Zai Xiaodong , Pan Xiaoyan , Wang Rong , Lu Jiansheng , Du Peng , Yang Zhixin , Chi Xiangyang , Xiao Gengfu , Xu Junjie
Published: December 2024

The Junín virus (JUNV) is one of the New World arenaviruses that cause severe hemorrhagic fever. Human transferrin receptor 1 (hTfR1) has been identified as the main receptor for JUNV for virus entry into host cells. To date, no treatment has been approved for JUNV. Herein, we investigated 12 anti-hTfR1 VHH (variable domain of the heavy chain of heavy-chain antibody) antibodies and confirmed their interaction with hTfR1. Most of them could bind to the hTfR1 apical domain, which is the glycoprotein 1 (GP1) binding domain of JUNV. Among them, 18N18 exhibited neutralizing activity against both the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-vectored lentiviral Junín pseudoviruses and the recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)-vectored Junín pseudoviruses. We also verified that 18N18 blocked the interaction between hTfR1 and JUNV GP1. In addition, 18N18 could neutralize another New World arenavirus, the Machupo virus. Using AlphaFold 3-based simulation of 18N18–hTfR1 docking, we determined that 18N18’s binding epitope was located at the JUNV GP1 binding epitope. 18N18 represents a candidate for JUNV treatment and provides a potential approach that could be applied to New World arenaviruses.
Genetic Diversity and Antiretroviral Resistance in HIV-1-Infected Patients Newly Diagnosed in Cabo Verde
Authors: Leal Silvânia Da Veiga , Pimentel Victor , Gonçalves Paloma , Monteiro de Pina Araújo Isabel Inês , Parreira Ricardo , Taveira Nuno , Pingarilho Marta , Abecasis Ana B.
Published: December 2024

The high genetic variability of HIV-1 and the emergence of transmitted drug resistance (TDR) can impact treatment efficacy. In this study, we investigated the prevalent HIV-1 genotypes and drug-resistance-associated mutations in drug-naïve HIV-1 individuals in Cabo Verde. The study, conducted between 2018 and 2019, included drug-naïve HIV-1 individuals from the São Vicente, Boa Vista, Fogo, and Santiago islands. The HIV-1 pol gene was sequenced using Sanger sequencing. TDR was identified using the Stanford Calibrated Population Resistance tool, and resistance levels to different drugs were interpreted with the Stanford HIV database. The genetic diversity of HIV-1 was determined through phylogenetic analysis, and epidemiological and behavioural data were collected via questionnaires. Of the 73 participants, the majority were male (52.1%). The CRF02_AG recombinant form predominated (41.1%), followed by subtype G (37.0%). The overall prevalence of TDR was 9.6%. Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NRTI) mutations occurred in 2.7% of individuals, while Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NNRTI) mutations occurred in 9.6%. The most prevalent mutations were K103N (5.5%) and M184V (2.7%). No protease- or integrase-associated mutations were found. The high levels of resistance to NNRTIs found demonstrate the need for surveillance of resistance mutations to ensure the efficacy and durability of the current therapeutic regimen, which includes Dolutegravir.
Plant Cell Culture-Derived Saponin Adjuvant Enhances Immune Response Against a Stabilized Human Metapneumovirus Pre-Fusion Vaccine Candidate
Authors: Swart Maarten , Allen Jessica , Reed Brendan , Izquierdo Gil Ana , Verspuij Johan , Schmit-Tillemans Sonja , Chakkumkal Anish , Findeis Mark , Hafner Angela V. , Harjivan Chandresh , Kurnat Rebecca , Kuipers Harmjan , Zahn Roland , Brandenburg Boerries
Published: December 2024

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant respiratory pathogen, particularly in vulnerable populations. Background: No vaccine for the prevention of HMPV is currently licensed, although several subunit vaccines are in development. Saponin-based adjuvant systems (AS), including QS-21, have transformed the field of subunit vaccines by dramatically increasing their potency and efficacy, leading to the development of several licensed vaccines. However, naturally sourced tree bark-extracted QS-21 faces supply and manufacturing challenges, hindering vaccine development. Objective: This study reports on an alternative plant cell culture system for the consistent production of highly pure QS-21. Method: We evaluated the efficacy of cultured plant cell (cpc)-produced QS-21 in a novel HMPV vaccine, formulating a recombinant pre-fusion stabilized HMPV F protein (preF) with cpcQS-21 and a synthetic toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) agonist adjuvant formulation. Results: In mice, TLR4 agonist containing adjuvant formulations with plant cell-produced QS-21 performed equally to licensed adjuvant AS01 containing tree-bark-extracted QS-21 and demonstrated a significant increase in immunogenicity against HMPV preF compared to the unadjuvanted control. Conclusion: Our findings pave the way for a reliable, scalable, and sustainable source of pure QS-21, enabling the development of highly effective HMPV and other vaccines with significant public health impact.
Design of a 3D Platform for the Evaluation of Water Quality in Urban Rivers Based on a Digital Twin Model
Authors: Xu Yanan , Hui Ming , Qu Haozhe
Published: December 2024

To improve the informatization construction and intelligent decision-making level of river and lake basin management, the water quality of a digital twin basin was considered as the starting point and a water quality evaluation platform for Chuancheng River and Baihe River in Nanyang City, Henan Province was established. Based on digital twin technology, the platform establishes a virtual space city model, uses the long short-term memory algorithm to establish a water quality prediction model, draws the distribution of water pollution factors in two dimensions based on Kriging interpolation, simulates the pollutant diffusion in three dimensions based on numerical simulation, and finally builds a visual platform for evaluation and analysis. The platform combines digital twin with three models: one-dimensional (1D) water quality data processing, two-dimensional pollutant distribution, and three-dimensional (3D) pollutant diffusion simulation to achieve visual and comprehensive management of water quality assessment. Compared with the traditional 1D water quality data management platform, the proposed digital twin 3D urban river water quality evaluation platform system solves the problems of low visualization degree, single management, and incomplete analysis, as well as provides a new technical guarantee for the management of urban river water quality.
Influence of Flood Events on the Ecological Characteristics of Bolboschoenus planiculmis: Implications for Restoration of Grus leucogeranus Habitats
Authors: Chen Long , Zhang Mingye , Tong Shouzheng , An Yu , Zhao Chunzi , Xin Yuan , Zhang Jiaxin
Published: December 2024

Flood events severely damage the biodiversity and ecological functions of wetlands, posing a major threat to the health and stability of wetland ecosystems. Plants play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and balance of these ecosystems by providing food and habitat for various organisms. Although the wetland plants’ responses to flooding events have been extensively studied, the multi-level ecological characteristics (on the community, population, and individual plant level) of these plants in response to flooding have not yet been investigated. In this study, the community structure and ecological characteristics of Bolboschoenus planiculmis under different flooding conditions and plant traits were studied. The results revealed significant differences in the community composition and species diversity under various flooding conditions. Under continuous flooding, the number of species was three times greater than under seasonal flooding conditions. Flood events showed a significant impact on population density and coverage of B. planiculmis. The population density and coverage were 76.10% and 66.70% higher in seasonal flooding conditions than in continuous flooding conditions. Under seasonal flooding conditions, the allocation of total biomass and bulb biomass was greater than that observed under continuous flooding conditions. The results of the correlation analysis and redundancy analysis (RDA) indicated that the water level is a critical factor influencing the variations in the multi-level ecological features of the B. planiculmis community under different flooding conditions. This study suggests that maintaining seasonal flooding is essential for the natural restoration of B. planiculmis wetlands. These findings demonstrate that flood events significantly affect the ecological characteristics of B. planiculmis and offer valuable guidelines for the near-natural restoration of Grus leucogeranus habitats.
Pencak Silat as a Manifestation of Martial Art in the Majapahit Era
Authors: Qomarrullah Rif'iy , Sokoy Fredrik
Published: December 2024

This article investigates the role of Pencak Silat as a martial art during the Majapahit Empire, emphasizing its dual significance in warfare and the shaping of cultural identity. The research highlights how Pencak Silat was utilized both as a military strategy and a spiritual practice, contributing to the empire's dominance in the Indonesian archipelago. By integrating combat techniques with philosophical values, Pencak Silat became a key factor in Majapahit’s military success. This study adopts a qualitative approach, utilizing primary sources such as epigraphy, historical texts, and cultural artifacts, in addition to secondary literature, to offer a comprehensive analysis. The research also includes visual documentation, such as illustrations of martial arts practices during the era. The findings reveal that Pencak Silat played a pivotal role not only in defending the empire but also in instilling loyalty, discipline, and spiritual resilience among its warriors. Furthermore, the study explores the broader social context of the Majapahit era, differentiating it from other Southeast Asian societies. The article concludes that Pencak Silat had enduring cultural and military importance, leaving a lasting legacy that influenced subsequent generations in the region.
A vivência de mulheres em cursos superiores majoritariamente cursados por homens na Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora
Authors:   , Ferreira Adrielle Cristina de Paiva Marques
Published: December 2024

Esta pesquisa tem por objetivo descobrir como é a vivência de mulheres em cursos de nível superior majoritariamente cursados por homens, cujas profissões são socialmente vistas, simbolicamente, como masculinas na Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora. Primeiro, foi definido o que seria considerado um curso majoritário masculino, sendo estabelecido que são aqueles que apresentam 70% ou mais de homens - fazendo esta análise 13 cursos se caracterizam como majoritário masculino: Física; Engenharia Elétrica/Habilitação em Robótica e Automação Industrial; Engenharia Computacional; Engenharia Elétrica/Habilitação em Sistemas Eletrônicos; Engenharia Elétrica/Habilitação em Telecomunicações; Ciências Exatas; Engenharia Elétrica/Habilitação em Energia; Música Composição; Estatística; Engenharia Mecânica; Música Violão; Ciências da Computação; e Sistemas de Informação. Em razão do grande número de cursos e da limitação de tempo da realização da pesquisa, foi feito um recorte com foco nas engenharias, analisando os cursos de Engenharia Elétrica, Engenharia Computacional e Engenharia Mecânica. Sendo assim, foi composto o grupo de entrevistadas por 18 estudantes desses cursos. Nas entrevistas foi possível identificar que a vivência dessas alunas perpassa por diversas barreiras como: a falta de representatividade, a discriminação de gênero, o assédio, o cerceamento das suas vozes e corpo. Sendo assim, essas alunas buscam criar formas, táticas, para sobreviverem a este ambiente majoritário masculino, como ignorar situações e comentários desrespeitosos, moldar seu jeito de ser, falar, vestir, se agrupar com outras mulheres. Dessa forma, foi possível concluir que a vivência das mulheres nos cursos majoritários masculinos da UFJF são dificultadas por conta do seu gênero, não sendo valorizadas, reconhecidas e ouvidas, além de passarem por diversas discriminações de gênero. Sendo assim, é de extrema importância, que sejam criadas medidas de apoio, segurança e escuta para que essas barreiras e desafios sejam superados.
A gestão de risco na cadeia de suprimentos aplicada ao transporte ferroviário de minério de ferro: um estudo multicaso
Authors:   , Ferreira Leonardo Moreira
Published: December 2024

O gerenciamento de riscos da cadeia de suprimentos visa a proteger a lucratividade e a continuidade das cadeias de suprimentos, diminuindo a chance de acometimento de efeito negativo das interrupções possivelmente ocorridas durante as atividades da cadeia. Cadeias de suprimentos como a do minério de ferro são muito ligadas à ferrovia, principalmente no Brasil, onde o modal reúne a maior parte do seu transporte para exportação do mineral. A fim de aprofundar os estudos, o objetivo desta pesquisa é analisar o cenário sobre o gerenciamento dos riscos catastróficos encontrados nas ferrovias do Sudeste brasileiro, especialmente no que concerne ao transporte de minério de ferro. Para atingir o objetivo proposto, desenvolveu-se um estudo de natureza aplicada, do tipo exploratória, com abordagem qualitativa. Ademais, entrevistou-se profissionais das três concessionárias envolvidas no transporte ferroviário de carga do Sudeste para identificar a caracterização de um gerenciamento para os riscos catastróficos. Com a pesquisa foi possível constatar que as concessionárias ferroviárias do Sudeste têm algum tipo de organização para identificar, classificar, mitigar e monitorar os riscos envolvidos em sua operação, mesmo os catastróficos. Porém, de acordo com seus funcionários, a organização sobre gerenciamento de risco da cadeia de suprimentos e eventos de risco catastrófico é incipiente. Entre os fatores de riscos catastróficos que influenciam o gerenciamento de riscos da cadeia de minério de ferro nas concessionárias, destaca-se a preocupação destas com o fator macroambiental, que se refere às mudanças climáticas globais e a seus efeitos sobre a operação.
A cocriação do discurso sustentável por atores do campo da moda
Authors:   , Werneck Fabricio Marques
Published: December 2024

Esta pesquisa foi realizada a fim de compreender como o discurso em torno da sustentabilidade é articulado no campo da moda para conciliar os conceitos e práticas sustentáveis com os parâmetros de desempenho do setor. Foram entrevistados atores do campo da moda, com atuações diversas, como designers, pesquisadores, jornalistas, ativistas, digital influencers e profissionais de cargos gerenciais, que compuseram um painel de especialistas. A análise crítica de discurso foi utilizada no tratamento do corpus de pesquisa. Os entrevistados representam um discurso dissidente dentro do universo simbólico cuja hegemonia é do modelo capitalista. A sustentabilidade uma forma dos atores e das organizações buscarem legitimidade dentro do campo da moda. Porém, com base na pesquisa, há indícios de que as ideias e proposições presentes nos discursos dos entrevistados continuam ligadas ao paradigma capitalista, por ainda se basearem em parâmetros de desempenho próprios a ele, como volume de vendas, produtividade e lucro.
Elementos favoráveis e desfavoráveis na implementação do Lean manufacturing em empresas da cidade de Juiz de Fora/MG
Authors:   , Lopes Charlie Hudson Turette
Published: December 2024

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi identificar como quatro empresas de diferentes segmentos da cidade de Juiz de Fora/MG, que participaram e concluíram projetos pelo Programa Brasil mais produtivo (B+P), aplicaram ferramentas de Lean Manufacturing (LM) em seus processos e quais foram os elementos favoráveis e desfavoráveis para implementar o LM. O B+P foi um programa do governo federal, idealizado pelo extinto Ministério do Desenvolvimento, Indústria e Comércio Exterior (MDIC), que atendeu 3000 empresas no Brasil, aplicando ferramentas de LM em projetos com duração de até 3 meses, entre os anos 2016 e 2018. Para tanto, foi realizada uma investigação de natureza qualitativa, visando: (i) diagnosticar e analisar ações, elementos favoráveis e desfavoráveis à implementação do LM, assim como seus resultados, em diálogo com a literatura; (ii) examinar meios para reforçar elementos favoráveis, para mitigar os desfavoráveis e para estabilizar os resultados. As informações foram coletadas visando a triangulação de evidências, com dados primários e secundários. Para analisar o conteúdo do relatório de avaliação oficial do B+P foi utilizado o software IRAMUTEQ, com arcabouço no modelo de Bardin (2011). Os resultados principais foram: (i) divergência conceitual entre as ferramentas LM elencadas na literatura e as utilizadas no B+P; (ii) listagem e detalhamento de dez elementos favoráveis e dez elementos desfavoráveis à implementação do LM; (iii) identificação da ferramenta Mapeamento do Fluxo de Valor (MFV) como sendo unânime para autores e para o Programa B+P, no que diz respeito às medições dos fluxos produtivos e documentais em projetos LM.
Comportamento do consumidor vegano: fatores que impactam na decisão de compra e preferência pelo consumo sustentável
Authors:   , Carmo Daniel Vieira do
Published: December 2024

A crescente preocupação da sociedade contemporânea em adotar um estilo de vida sustentável, tem impulsionado a conscientização sobre os impactos ambientais, éticos e de saúde que estão vinculados aos atuais padrões de consumo. Neste contexto, o veganismo se destaca como uma forma de consumo responsável, evitando produtos de origem animal para reduzir o sofrimento destes e os danos ao meio ambiente. Trata-se, então, de um estilo de vida que busca eliminar todas as formas de exploração animal, respeitando seus direitos. A demanda por alternativas sustentáveis tem levado as organizações a revisarem suas estratégias comerciais, refletindo o que pode ser visto no Objetivo de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS) de número 12, da Organização das Nações Unidas, que visa promover padrões de consumo e produção responsáveis. Este estudo tem como foco o comportamento do consumidor vegano no Brasil, buscando entender as influências que direcionam suas preferências por produtos sustentáveis. Sua relevância está na busca por compreender as escolhas do consumidor vegano para melhor enfrentar os desafios da sustentabilidade, oferecendo dados para o desenvolvimento de políticas públicas e estratégias de marketing. Aspira-se enriquecer o âmbito acadêmico e empresarial, sublinhando o potencial do mercado vegano e a importância de alinhar o consumo com os objetivos globais de desenvolvimento sustentável. Adotando uma metodologia quantitativa e descritiva, a amostra da pesquisa contou com 886 indivíduos respondentes no Brasil, analisando variados fatores capazes de influenciar a decisão de seguir uma dieta vegana, como a preocupação com o meio ambiente, identidade social e benefícios à saúde. Os resultados apontam para um consenso entre os participantes acerca da importância de adotar um comportamento de consumo sustentável e ético, com um foco no respeito aos direitos dos animais. A pesquisa revela que a escolha pelo veganismo entre os respondentes não é motivada por status social, mas por um compromisso genuíno com a sustentabilidade, refletindo um otimismo significativo quanto ao potencial de práticas responsáveis de consumo.