bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing for Urban Air Taxi Services: Key Parameters and Future Transportation Impact
Authors: Liu Yinfei , Gao Chao
Published: June 2024

Urban air mobility (UAM) enabled by electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft presents an innovative transportation system for mega-cities. An analysis of the techno-economic feasibility of eVTOL air taxis can provide insights into the development and potential impacts of this emerging mobility solution. This study examines eVTOL configurations and proposes a conceptual model for eVTOL air taxi services. A generic cost–revenue model is developed to evaluate the economic feasibility using the rate of return-on-investment approach. Two critical parameters are identified—maximum voyage and price per kilometer. The modeling analysis shows that eVTOL air taxis can achieve a positive rate of return given realistic assumptions on the critical parameters. Reductions in operating costs and increases in maximum voyage range improve financial viability. With technological advancement, eVTOL air taxis are expected to transform urban transportation by increasing capacity and flexibility. The techno-economic analysis provides useful implications for urban planning and policy regarding this innovative mobility mode.
Digital Transformation and Environmental, Social, and Governance Performance from a Human Capital Perspective
Authors: He Xiaowen , Chen Weinien
Published: June 2024

The strategic adoption of digital technologies has increasingly been recognized as a crucial driver of cost reduction and operational efficiency in enterprises. It optimizes production processes and promotes sustainable growth. In this context, understanding the specific impact of digital transformation on enterprises’ environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance holds significant practical value for promoting sustainable development in China’s economy and society. This study focused on Chinese A-share listed enterprises from 2010 to 2022, specifically exploring the role of digital transformation in enhancing ESG performance from the perspective of human capital. Our findings reveal that digital transformation significantly augments their ESG performance. Notably, the improvements are more pronounced in non-state-owned enterprises compared to state-owned ones. Specifically, digital transformation initiatives contribute to ESG performance enhancement by increasing the extent of high-quality labor and elevating the skill levels of the existing workforce. Furthermore, environmental regulation moderates the positive impact of corporate digital transformation on the quantity and skill level of labor, thus influencing firm-level ESG performance. The study sheds light on the transformative role of digital transformation and its implications for ESG performance improvement by elucidating the mechanisms through which digital transformation affects human capital and interacts with regulatory environments.
Urban Vulnerability under the Extreme High Temperatures in the Chengdu-Chongqing Area, Western China
Authors: Yin Zhaoqi , Li Weipeng , Chen Zhongsheng , Zhu Li , Shui Panheng
Published: June 2024

The frequent occurrence of extreme high-temperature events in the summer under global climate change poses a serious threat to Chinese society. An urban vulnerability evaluation system for counties in the Chengdu-Chongqing Area was constructed to calculate the urban vulnerability and distribution characteristics of each district. In this study, a vulnerability-contribution model was used to analyze the types of urban vulnerability in the Chengdu-Chongqing Area. Additionally, combined with the optimal parameter geographic detector (OPGD) model, the main influencing factors and interactions of urban vulnerability were explored. The results show that: ① The urban vulnerability of the Chengdu-Chongqing Area is high in the east and low in the west, with vulnerability degree mostly below the medium degree. ② Exposure contributes more than 50% to severe and general urban vulnerability in the region, while adaptability contributes the highest proportion to mild urban vulnerability, reaching 47.53%. ③ From the factor perspective, the impact ratio of high-temperature days on urban vulnerability is 39.1%, and the interaction between various meteorological factors and social factors produces an enhancement effect, with the highest interaction q-value reaching 0.7863.
Greening Emerging Economies: Enhancing Environmental, Social, and Governance Performance through Environmental Management Accounting and Green Financing
Authors: Zhen Tianyao , Rahman Md.
Published: June 2024

Given the rising interest in sustainability globally, this paper investigates whether the environmental management accounting (EMA) and green financing of a firm are associated with superior environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, considering manufacturing firms from emerging economies like Bangladesh to address a gap in relevant research. Drawing on the perspective of contingency theory, this study is one of the first to analyze how EMA and green financing enable sustainable production to enhance ESG performance, as well as the mediation that sustainable production exerts on this relationship. This study entails an analysis of ESG performance in sensitive industries, i.e., those that are more likely to cause social and environmental damage. To test our hypotheses, we applied partial least squares path modeling to analyze data from 467 responses. Further, we used fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to check the robustness. The results suggest that sensitive industries present superior ESG performance through integrating EMA and green financing. Further, empirical evidence demonstrates that sustainable production fully mediates the relationship between EMA and ESG performance. Meanwhile, sustainable production does not moderate green financing and ESG performance. For managers, this study demonstrates how embedding green financing and EMA into the organizational process for transitioning to a sustainable production model can present superior ESG performance. Our study contributes to research on both the impact of EMA and green financing on ESG performance, mediation effects of sustainable production, and integrated analysis using PLS-SEM and fsQCA, and the practice of sustainability management in firms in developing countries.
Research on Autonomous Vehicle Obstacle Avoidance Path Planning with Consideration of Social Ethics
Authors: Wang Lanwen , Jing Hui , Zhong Guoan , Wang Jiachen , Wang Tao
Published: June 2024

Self-driving car research can effectively reduce the occurrence of traffic accidents, but when encountering sudden people or obstacles cutting into the lane, how to reduce the damage hazard to traffic participants and make ethical decisions is the key point that the development of self-driving technology must break through. When faced with sudden traffic participants, self-driving vehicles need to make ethical decisions between ramming into the traffic participants or other obstacles. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a model decision planning method based on multi-objective evaluation function path evaluation of local path planning. This method addresses the ethical model disagreement problem of self-driving vehicles encountering traffic participants and other obstacles. The aim is to ensure the safety of the lives of the traffic participants and achieve the vehicle’s reasonable ethical decision planning. Firstly, when anticipating traffic participants and other obstacles, the vehicle’s planning intention decisions are obtained through fuzzy algorithms. Different sets of curves for various positions are generated based on dynamic programming algorithms. These curves are then fitted using B-spline curves, incorporating obstacle collision costs, and classifying obstacles into different types with varying cost weights. Secondly, factors such as path length and average path curvature are considered for path total cost calculations. Finally, a local path that avoids traffic participants is obtained. This path is then tracked using a pure pursuit algorithm. The proposed algorithm’s effectiveness is verified through simulation experiments and comparative analyses conducted on the MATLAB platform. In conclusion, this research promotes a safer and more sustainable transport system in line with the principles of sustainable development by addressing the challenges associated with safety and ethical decision making in self-driving cars.
Estimation of Marshall–Olkin Extended Generalized Extreme Value Distribution Parameters under Progressive Type-II Censoring by Using a Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Attwa Rasha Abd El-Wahab , Sadk Shimaa Wasfy , Radwan Taha
Published: June 2024

In this article, we consider the statistical analysis of the parameter estimation of the Marshall–Olkin extended generalized extreme value under liner normalization distribution (MO-GEVL) within the context of progressively type-II censored data. The progressively type-II censored data are considered for three specific distribution patterns: fixed, discrete uniform, and binomial random removal. The challenge lies in the computation of maximum likelihood estimations (MLEs), as there is no straightforward analytical solution. The classical numerical methods are considered inadequate for solving the complex MLE equation system, leading to the necessity of employing artificial intelligence algorithms. This article utilizes the genetic algorithm (GA) to overcome this difficulty. This article considers parameter estimation through both maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods. For the MLE, the confidence intervals of the parameters are calculated using the Fisher information matrix. In the Bayesian estimation, the Lindley approximation is applied, considering LINEX loss functions and square error loss, suitable for both non-informative and informative contexts. The effectiveness and applicability of these proposed methods are demonstrated through numerical simulations and practical real-data examples.
Symmetrical Data Recovery: FPGA-Based Multi-Dimensional Elastic Recovery Acceleration for Multiple Block Failures in Ceph Systems
Authors: Lei Fan , Wang Yong , Chen Junqi , Yang Sijie
Published: June 2024

In the realm of Ceph distributed storage systems, ensuring swift and symmetrical data recovery during severe data corruption scenarios is pivotal for data reliability and system stability. This paper introduces an innovative FPGA-based Multi-Dimensional Elastic Recovery Acceleration method, termed AMDER-Ceph. Utilizing FPGA technology, this method is a pioneer in accelerating erasure code data recovery within such systems symmetrically. By harnessing the parallel computing power of FPGAs and optimizing Cauchy matrix binary operations, AMDER-Ceph significantly enhances data recovery speed and efficiency symmetrically. Our evaluations in real-world Ceph environments show that AMDER-Ceph achieves up to 4.84 times faster performance compared with traditional methods, especially evident in the standard 4 MB block size configurations of Ceph systems.
Solving Second-Order Homogeneous Linear Differential Equations in Terms of the Tri-Confluent Heun’s Function
Authors: Aldossari Shayea
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we state an algorithm that checks whether a given second-order linear differential equation can be reduced to the tri-confluent Heun’s equation. The algorithm provides a method for finding solutions of the form exp(∫r(x)dx)·HeunT(q,α,γ,δ,ϵ,f(x)), where the parameters α,β,λ∈C, the functions r,f∈C(x), and f are not constant.
Exploring the Roles of Artifacts in Speculative Futures: Perspectives in HCI
Authors: Zhu Lin , Wang Jiayue , Li Jiawei
Published: June 2024

In an era where technology increasingly blurs the boundaries between humans and machines, artifacts have become crucial mediums for critically examining the technological, social, and ethical dimensions of Human–Computer Interaction (HCI). This study explores artifacts as a key yet underutilized medium for speculation in the evolving field of HCI from a systemic perspective. While artifacts increasingly enable HCI to move beyond optimizing user experiences towards critically and collaboratively envisioning futures, perspectives comprehensively examining artifacts across the speculative design process and their impacts remain limited. Through a literature review of 53 speculative artifacts within the scope of HCI, this research elucidates the roles of artifacts across intention, making, and impact. Four categories of speculative artifacts emerged—Reflective, Exploratory, Interventional, and Heuristic—demonstrating how artifacts employ material, ambiguous, functional, and provocative forms to shape experiences, behaviors, and social norms. This study highlights the need for HCI to increasingly recognize the capacity of artifacts to support critical, sustained, participatory speculation by providing tangible representations of alternative futures. Speculative artifacts thus serve as powerful mediums to engage in societal discourse around the ethics and values of emerging technologies and to envision and enact responsible innovation. The materialization of alternative futures through artifacts allows researchers to reimagine socio-technological relationships, pushing design into inclusive, controversial spaces where diverse stakeholders can collaboratively shape desired and undesired futures.
Optimizing Priority Queuing Systems with Server Reservation and Temporal Blocking for Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Behera Jnana Ranjan , Imoize Agbotiname Lucky , Singh Sudhansu Sekhar , Tripathy Subhranshu Sekhar , Bebortta Sujit
Published: June 2024

In the domain of cognitive radio (CR), unlicensed users have the opportunity to efficiently use available spectrum bands without interfering with licensed primary users (PUs). Our study addresses the challenge of secondary user (SU) spectrum shortage due to high arrival rates of licensed users. We propose two models aimed at improving the average total waiting time for SUs in such scenarios. These models incorporate non-acquired and preemptive priority mechanisms within the M/D/1 model of a PU delay system. Through quantitative evaluations and Monte Carlo simulations, we evaluate the performance of these models. Our findings show significant improvements in average waiting time for both PUs and SUs, especially under the priority scheme. Furthermore, we explore these models in the context of real-time systems, considering the limited buffer capacity for both user types. This further improves the average waiting time for PUs and SUs in both priority schemes. Our contribution lies in providing effective solutions to mitigate SU shortages in CR networks, providing insight into priority-based approaches and real-time system considerations.
Premarital Counseling on the Alpha Thalassemia Allele HBA2:c.*94A>G
Authors: Alderei Latifa , Alshkeili Nouf , Alnaqbi Dana , Shehab Omar Abdulla , Vijayan Ranjit , Souid Abdul-Kader
Published: June 2024

The mutation HBA2:c.*94A>G (AATAAA>AATAAG; rs63751269) is a 3′-UTR (3 prime untranslated region) single-nucleotide substitution in the polyadenylation (PA) signal of HBA2 (αPA:A→G). This pathogenic (CADD score, 14.92) variant is sporadic in the Arabian Peninsula. It results in inefficient mRNA processing, transcription termination, and possibly using an alternate cryptic downstream polyadenylation signal. As a result, the allele αT (or αT-Saudi) poses challenges in premarital counseling with respect to fetal risk of hemoglobin H disease. Homozygous HBA2:c.*94A>G (αTα/αTα) results in moderate-to-severe microcytosis (mean red cell volume, MCV, 55 to 65 fL), reflecting markedly impaired hemoglobin synthesis (hemoglobin H disease). Homozygous rightward −α3.7 (a 3804-neocleotide deletion allele, NM_000517.4:c.[-2_-3delAC; −α3.7]), on the other hand, results in mild microcytosis (MCV, 70 to 75 fL, alpha-thalassemia trait). Thus, HBA2:c.*94A>G is more damaging than −α3.7. Consistently, the value of MCV in compound heterozygosity, HBA2:c.*94A>G and −α3.7, is 65 to 70 fL. We report here a healthy couple who presented for premarital counseling on their hemoglobinopathy. The man has homozygous HBA2:c.*94A>G (αTα/αTα), and the woman has compound heterozygous (−α3.7/αTα, also annotated as: −3.7α/αTα). As a result, the genotype of their offspring would be that of the father (αTα/αTα) or the mother (−α3.7/αTα). The counseling was mainly based on the benign phenotypes of the parents. As both were asymptomatic and their anemia was clinically insignificant, they proceeded with the marriage.
Rotation Matrix of a Charged Symmetrical Body: One-Parameter Family of Solutions in Elementary Functions
Authors: Deriglazov Alexei A.
Published: June 2024

Euler–Poisson equations of a charged symmetrical body in external constant and homogeneous electric and magnetic fields are deduced starting from the variational problem, where the body is considered as a system of charged point particles subject to holonomic constraints. The final equations are written for the center-of-mass coordinate, rotation matrix and angular velocity. A general solution to the equations of motion is obtained for the case of a charged ball. For the case of a symmetrical charged body (solenoid), the task of obtaining the general solution is reduced to the problem of a one-dimensional cubic pseudo-oscillator. In addition, we present a one-parametric family of solutions to the problem in elementary functions.
Findings and Challenges in Replacing Traditional Uterine Cervical Cancer Diagnosis with Molecular Tools in Private Gynecological Practice in Mexico
Authors: Castrillo-Diez José L. , Rivera-Santiago Carolina , Ávila-Flores Silvia M. , Barrera-Barrera Silvia A. , Barrera-Saldaña Hugo A.
Published: June 2024

We have been encouraging practicing gynecologists to adopt molecular diagnostics tests, PCR, and cancer biomarkers, as alternatives enabled by these platforms, to traditional Papanicolaou and colposcopy tests, respectively. An aliquot of liquid-based cytology was used for the molecular test [high-risk HPV types, (HR HPV)], another for the PAP test, and one more for p16/Ki67 dual-stain cytology. A total of 4499 laboratory samples were evaluated, and we found that 25.1% of low-grade samples and 47.9% of high-grade samples after PAP testing had a negative HR HPV-PCR result. In those cases, reported as Pap-negative, 22.1% had a positive HR HPV-PCR result. Dual staining with p16/Ki67 biomarkers in samples was positive for HR HPV, and 31.7% were also positive for these markers. Out of the PCR results that were positive for any of these HR HPV subtypes, n 68.3%, we did not find evidence for the presence of cancerous cells, highlighting the importance of performing dual staining with p16/Ki67 after PCR to avoid unnecessary colposcopies. The encountered challenges are a deep-rooted social reluctance in Mexico to abandon traditional Pap smears and the opinion of many specialists. Therefore, we still believe that colposcopy continues to be a preferred procedure over the dual-staining protocol.
Tripartite Motif-Containing Protein 65 (TRIM65) Inhibits Hepatitis B Virus Transcription
Authors: Shen Sheng , Yan Ran , Xie Zhanglian , Yu Xiaoyang , Liang Hongyan , You Qiuhong , Zhang Hu , Hou Jinlin , Zhang Xiaoyong , Liu Yuanjie , Sun Jian , Guo Haitao
Published: June 2024

Tripartite motif (TRIM) proteins, comprising a family of over 100 members with conserved motifs, exhibit diverse biological functions. Several TRIM proteins influence viral infections through direct antiviral mechanisms or by regulating host antiviral innate immune responses. To identify TRIM proteins modulating hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication, we assessed 45 human TRIMs in HBV-transfected HepG2 cells. Our study revealed that ectopic expression of 12 TRIM proteins significantly reduced HBV RNA and subsequent capsid-associated DNA levels. Notably, TRIM65 uniquely downregulated viral pregenomic (pg) RNA in an HBV-promoter-specific manner, suggesting a targeted antiviral effect. Mechanistically, TRIM65 inhibited HBV replication primarily at the transcriptional level via its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity and intact B-box domain. Though HNF4α emerged as a potential TRIM65 substrate, disrupting its binding site on the HBV genome did not completely abolish TRIM65’s antiviral effect. In addition, neither HBx expression nor cellular MAVS signaling was essential to TRIM65-mediated regulation of HBV transcription. Furthermore, CRISPR-mediated knock-out of TRIM65 in the HepG2-NTCP cells boosted HBV infection, validating its endogenous role. These findings underscore TRIM proteins’ capacity to inhibit HBV transcription and highlight TRIM65’s pivotal role in this process.
Cytomegalovirus DNA Loads in Organs of Congenitally Infected Fetus
Authors: Toriyabe Kuniaki , Kitamura Asa , Ikejiri Makoto , Hashizume Ryotaro , Nakamura Maki , Teramoto Emi , Takeuchi Hiroki , Kondo Eiji , Ikeda Tomoaki
Published: June 2024

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection poses significant risks to fetal development, particularly affecting the nervous system. This study reports a fetal autopsy case, examining cCMV infection and focusing on CMV DNA measurements in various fetal organs before formalin fixation, a novel approach for comprehensive CMV DNA evaluations in fetal organs affected by cCMV. A 20-week-old male fetus was diagnosed with cCMV following the detection of CMV DNA in ascites obtained via abdominocentesis in utero. After the termination of pregnancy, multiple organs of the fetus, including the cerebrum, thyroid gland, heart, lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, and adrenal glands, were extracted and examined for CMV DNA loads using a real-time polymerase chain reaction. Histopathological examination involved hematoxylin–eosin and CMV-specific immunostaining. A correlation was found between CMV DNA loads and pathology, with higher CMV-infected cell numbers observed in organs positively identified with both staining methods, exhibiting CMV DNA levels of ≥1.0 × 104 copies/mL, compared to those detected solely by CMV-specific immunostaining, where CMV DNA levels ranged from 1.0 × 103 to 1.0 × 104 copies/mL. These results highlight a quantifiable relationship between the organ infection extent and CMV DNA concentration, providing insights into cCMV pathogenesis and potentially informing future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cCMV infection.
Exploring the Epidemiological Surveillance of Hepatitis A in South Africa: A 2023 Perspective
Authors: Bhagwandin Keveshan , Thaver-Kleitman Jayendrie , Subramoney Kathleen , Manamela Morubula Jack , Prabdial-Sing Nishi
Published: June 2024

Hepatitis A (HAV) presents a significant global health concern with diverse clinical manifestations primarily transmitted through fecal–oral routes, emphasizing the critical role of sanitation and water cleanliness in transmission dynamics. Age-related variations, notably asymptomatic presentation in children, add complexity. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) endemicity classification aids in understanding prevalence and control strategies. This study examines 2023 South African epidemiological data on HAV cases, evaluating age distribution, incidence rates, and provincial disparities. Data from the national surveillance system and weather services were analyzed. Findings reveal distinct age-related trends, with the highest seroprevalence observed in the 5–9 age group with the most burdened areas located in the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng provinces. Furthermore, seasonal rainfall variations correlate with increased incidence in Western Cape and KZN. The amalgamation of results suggest a potential epidemiological shift, emphasizing the need for updated immunization strategies. Noteworthy patterns, like the rise in 5–9-year-olds, may be influenced by factors such as school clustering and migration. Provincial disparities and the impact of climatic events underscore the necessity for dynamic vaccination strategies and surveillance network enhancements. This study highlights the urgency for improved understanding and response to HAV in South Africa.
Overview of the 2023 Physical Virology Gordon Research Conference—Viruses at Multiple Levels of Complexity
Authors: Hagan Michael F. , Zandi Roya , Uetrecht Charlotte
Published: June 2024

This review accompanies the Special Issue on the subject of physical virology, which features work presented at the recent Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on this topic [...]
Bacteriophages and Green Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles in Combination Are Efficient against Biofilm Formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Alipour-Khezri Elaheh , Moqadami Amin , Barzegar Abolfazl , Mahdavi Majid , Skurnik Mikael , Zarrini Gholamreza
Published: June 2024

Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that infect the bacteria within which their reproduction cycle takes place, a process that ends in the lysis and death of the bacterial cell. Some phages are also able to destroy bacterial biofilms. Due to increased antibiotics resistance, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, another biofilm-forming pathogen, is a problem in many parts of the world. Zinc oxide (ZnO) and other metal nanoparticles (NPs) are biologically active and also possess anti-biofilm properties. ZnO-NPs were prepared by the green synthesis method using orange peels. The vibrational peaks of the ZnO-NPs were analyzed using FTIR analysis, and their size and morphological properties were determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The ability of the ZnO-NPs to reduce or eliminate P. aeruginosa biofilm alone or in combination with phages PB10 and PA19 was investigated. The P. aeruginosa cells were effectively killed in the preformed 48 h biofilms during a 24 h incubation with the ZnO-NP–phage combination, in comparison with the control or ZnO-NPs alone. The treatments on growing biofilms were most efficient in the final stages of biofilm development. All five treatment groups showed a significant biofilm reduction compared to the control group (p < 0.0001) at 48 h of incubation. The influence of the ZnO-NPs and phages on the quorum sensing system of P. aeruginosa was monitored by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) of the autoinducer biosynthesis gene lasI. While the ZnO-NPs repressed the lasI gene transcription, the phages slightly activated it at 24 and 48 h of incubation. Also, the effect of the ZnO-NPs and phage PA19 on the viability of HFF2 cells was investigated and the results showed that the combination of NPs with PA19 reduced the toxic effect of ZnO-NPs and also stimulated the growth in normal cells.
Human Coronavirus 229E Infection Inactivates Pyroptosis Executioner Gasdermin D but Ultimately Leads to Lytic Cell Death Partly Mediated by Gasdermin E
Authors: Martiáñez-Vendrell Xavier , Bloeme-ter Horst Jonna , Hutchinson Roy , Guy Coralie , Bowie Andrew G. , Kikkert Marjolein
Published: June 2024

Human coronavirus 229E (HCoV-229E) is associated with upper respiratory tract infections and generally causes mild respiratory symptoms. HCoV-229E infection can cause cell death, but the molecular pathways that lead to virus-induced cell death as well as the interplay between viral proteins and cellular cell death effectors remain poorly characterized for HCoV-229E. Studying how HCoV-229E and other common cold coronaviruses interact with and affect cell death pathways may help to understand its pathogenesis and compare it to that of highly pathogenic coronaviruses. Here, we report that the main protease (Mpro) of HCoV-229E can cleave gasdermin D (GSDMD) at two different sites (Q29 and Q193) within its active N-terminal domain to generate fragments that are now unable to cause pyroptosis, a form of lytic cell death normally executed by this protein. Despite GSDMD cleavage by HCoV-229E Mpro, we show that HCoV-229E infection still leads to lytic cell death. We demonstrate that during virus infection caspase-3 cleaves and activates gasdermin E (GSDME), another key executioner of pyroptosis. Accordingly, GSDME knockout cells show a significant decrease in lytic cell death upon virus infection. Finally, we show that HCoV-229E infection leads to increased lytic cell death levels in cells expressing a GSDMD mutant uncleavable by Mpro (GSDMD Q29A+Q193A). We conclude that GSDMD is inactivated by Mpro during HCoV-229E infection, preventing GSDMD-mediated cell death, and point to the caspase-3/GSDME axis as an important player in the execution of virus-induced cell death. In the context of similar reported findings for highly pathogenic coronaviruses, our results suggest that these mechanisms do not contribute to differences in pathogenicity among coronaviruses. Nonetheless, understanding the interactions of common cold-associated coronaviruses and their proteins with the programmed cell death machineries may lead to new clues for coronavirus control strategies.
Geminiviridae and Alphasatellitidae Diversity Revealed by Metagenomic Analysis of Susceptible and Tolerant Tomato Cultivars across Distinct Brazilian Biomes
Authors: Oliveira Izaías Araújo de , Reis Luciane de Nazaré Almeida dos , Fonseca Maria Esther de Noronha , Melo Felipe Fochat Silva , Boiteux Leonardo Silva , Pereira-Carvalho Rita de Cássia
Published: June 2024

The diversity of Geminiviridae and Alphasatellitidae species in tomatoes was assessed via high-throughput sequencing of 154 symptomatic foliar samples collected from 2002 to 2017 across seven Brazilian biomes. The first pool (BP1) comprised 73 samples from the North (13), Northeast (36), and South (24) regions. Sixteen begomoviruses and one Topilevirus were detected in BP1. Four begomovirus-like contigs were identified as putative novel species (NS). NS#1 was reported in the semi-arid (Northeast) region and NS#2 and NS#4 in mild subtropical climates (South region), whereas NS#3 was detected in the warm and humid (North) region. The second pool (BP2) comprised 81 samples from Southeast (39) and Central–West (42) regions. Fourteen viruses and subviral agents were detected in BP2, including two topileviruses, a putative novel begomovirus (NS#5), and two alphasatellites occurring in continental highland areas. The five putative novel begomoviruses displayed strict endemic distributions. Conversely, tomato mottle leaf curl virus (a monopartite species) displayed the most widespread distribution occurring across the seven sampled biomes. The overall diversity and frequency of mixed infections were higher in susceptible (16 viruses + alphasatellites) in comparison to tolerant (carrying the Ty–1 or Ty–3 introgressions) samples, which displayed 9 viruses. This complex panorama reinforces the notion that the tomato-associated Geminiviridae diversity is yet underestimated in Neotropical regions.
Comprehensive Overview of Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Cui Lingyan , Li Tingting , Xue Wenhui , Zhang Sibo , Wang Hong , Liu Hongjing , Gu Ying , Xia Ningshao , Li Shaowei
Published: June 2024

Currently, SARS-CoV-2 has evolved into various variants, including the numerous highly mutated Omicron sub-lineages, significantly increasing immune evasion ability. The development raises concerns about the possibly diminished effectiveness of available vaccines and antibody-based therapeutics. Here, we describe those representative categories of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) that retain prominent effectiveness against emerging variants including Omicron sub-lineages. The molecular characteristics, epitope conservation, and resistance mechanisms of these antibodies are further detailed, aiming to offer suggestion or direction for the development of therapeutic antibodies, and facilitate the design of vaccines with broad-spectrum potential.
HIV-1 Tat-Mediated Human Müller Glial Cell Senescence Involves Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Dysregulated Autophagy
Authors: Deshetty Uma Maheswari , Chatterjee Nivedita , Buch Shilpa , Periyasamy Palsamy
Published: June 2024

Antiretroviral treatments have notably extended the lives of individuals with HIV and reduced the occurrence of comorbidities, including ocular manifestations. The involvement of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in HIV-1 pathogenesis raises questions about its correlation with cellular senescence or its role in initiating senescent traits. This study investigated how ER stress and dysregulated autophagy impact cellular senescence triggered by HIV-1 Tat in the MIO-M1 cell line (human Müller glial cells). Cells exposed to HIV-1 Tat exhibited increased vimentin expression combined with markers of ER stress (BiP, p-eIF2α), autophagy (LC3, Beclin-1, p62), and the senescence marker p21 compared to control cells. Western blotting and staining techniques like SA-β-gal were employed to examine these markers. Additionally, treatments with ER stress inhibitor 4-PBA before HIV-1 Tat exposure led to a decreased expression of ER stress, senescence, and autophagy markers. Conversely, pre-treatment with the autophagy inhibitor 3-MA resulted in reduced autophagy and senescence markers but did not alter ER stress markers compared to control cells. The findings suggest a link between ER stress, dysregulated autophagy, and the initiation of a senescence phenotype in MIO-M1 cells induced by HIV-1 Tat exposure.
HPV16 Phylogenetic Variants in Anogenital and Head and Neck Cancers: State of the Art and Perspectives
Authors: Galati Luisa , Di Bonito Paola , Marinaro Mariarosaria , Chiantore Maria Vincenza , Gheit Tarik
Published: June 2024

HPV16 is responsible for approximately 60% and 90% of global HPV–induced cervical and oropharyngeal cancers, respectively. HPV16 intratype variants have been identified by HPV genome sequencing and classified into four phylogenetic lineages (A–D). Our understanding of HPV16 variants mostly derives from epidemiological studies on cervical cancer (CC) in which HPV16 B, C, and D lineages (previously named “non-European” variants) were mainly associated with high-grade cervical lesions and cancer. Although a predominance of HPV16 lineage A (previously named “European variants”) has been observed in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), epidemiological and in vitro biological studies are still limited for this tumor site. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the entire HPV genome has deepened our knowledge of the prevalence and distribution of HPV variants in CC and HNSCC. Research on cervical cancer has shown that certain HPV16 sublineages, such as D2, D3, A3, and A4, are associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer, and sublineages A4, D2, and D3 are linked to a higher risk of developing adenocarcinomas. Additionally, lineage C and sublineages D2 or D3 of HPV16 show an elevated risk of developing premalignant cervical lesions. However, it is still crucial to conduct large-scale studies on HPV16 variants in different HPV–related tumor sites to deeply evaluate their association with disease development and outcomes. This review discusses the current knowledge and updates on HPV16 phylogenetic variants distribution in HPV–driven anogenital and head and neck cancers.
In-Depth Photocatalytic Degradation Mechanism of the Extensively Used Dyes Malachite Green, Methylene Blue, Congo Red, and Rhodamine B via Covalent Organic Framework-Based Photocatalysts
Authors: Haleem Abdul , Ullah Mohib , Rehman Saif ur , Shah Afzal , Farooq Muhammad , Saeed Tooba , Ullah Ishan , Li Hao
Published: June 2024

Photocatalytic degradation technology has received much attention from researchers in the last few decades, due to its easy and cost-effective nature. A lot of review articles have been published on dyes via photocatalytic degradation, but most of the review articles lack a detailed and in-depth photocatalytic degradation mechanism of dyes. Numerous review articles are available on photocatalysis. Here, in this review article, we are mainly focused on the complete and in-depth photocatalytic degradation mechanism of four commonly used dyes such as Malachite Green, Methylene Blue, Congo Red and Rhodamine B, which will be highly useful for the new researchers that work on dyes’ photocatalytic degradation. Initially, various aspects of dyes have been included in this review article, comprehensively. The main focus was on the covalent organic framework-based photocatalysts for dyes’ photocatalytic degradation, due to their porous nature and various unique properties. Various synthesis routes and the photocatalytic performance of covalent organic frameworks and composite of covalent organic frameworks have been highlighted in this review article. In the last section of this review article, the main stimulus was the four mentioned dyes’ properties, uses, and toxicity, and the photocatalytic degradation mechanism through various paths into environmentally friendly and less-harmful compounds in the presence of photocatalysts. Factors effecting the photocatalytic degradation, economic cost, challenges and future aspects of photocatalytic technology were also included in this review article. This review article will be highly useful for those researchers that work on the photocatalytic degradation of various dyes and search for the complete degradation of complex dye molecules.
PENINGKATAN PRODUKTIVITAS MELALUI PENGURANGAN DEFECT PRODUK KABEL FIBER OPTIK DENGAN METODE TPM FOCUS IMPROVEMENT SEBAGAI KONTRIBUSI SDGS
Authors: Sulistyo Arif Budi , Solihati Tifani Intan , Hidayanti Nur , Siagian William Harapan Restadamai
Published: June 2024

PT. XYZ merupakan perusahaan produsen kabel serat optik (fiber optic) di Indonesia. Perusahaan ini dikenal sebagai produsen premium dengan produk berkualitas tinggi, dan mempunyai keahlian dalam memproduksi berbagai varian kabel serat optik. Saat ini kabel optik merupakan bahan vital penunjang pembangunan infrastruktur di Indonesia, terutama di bidang jaringan telekomunikasi, yang berkontribusi terhadap SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) Indonesia pada pilar sosial (pendidikan yang berkualitas) dan pilar ekonomi (industri, inovasi dan infrastruktur). Terdapat permasalahan, yakni terjadinya penurunan produktivitas kinerja mesin akibat produk defect yang meningkat, yaitu sekitar 9% yang dapat mengganggu pasokan di pasaran. Defect banyak teradi pada mesin Jacketing. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengatasi permasalahan pada mesin jaketing, agar supaya produktivitas mesin meningkat dan jumlah defect berkurang Penelitian ini menggunakan metode 7 tools untuk mengidentifikasi penyebab masalah dan TPM focus improvement untuk meningkatkan efektivitas kinerja mesin dengan fokus menghilangkan kerugian-kerugian yang spesifik pada mesin Jacketing.
The interests of the region, its residents and businesses as a basis for the strategy of sustainable development of regional banks and balanced development of public finances at the sub-federal level
Authors: Shvetsova N. S. , Bryukhanova N. V.
Published: June 2024

The article examines the role of regional banks in the socio-economic development of the regional economy: the nature of the regional bank as an element of the financial system of the region is investigated, the relationship between the financial performance of the regional bank and the indicators of socio–economic development of the region is analyzed. The analysis of changes in the structure of the banking sector, starting in 2016, is carried out in order to assess the implementation of the principles of proportional regulation of the activities of banking sector entities. The advantage of regional banks in comparison with federal ones is studied in order to implement the transformation of the national economy against the background of current challenges: regional banks in conditions of resource scarcity, nevertheless, have greater flexibility, stability and the ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions, are able to offer customers the most suitable products and services and are a necessary element for the balanced development of regional (sub-federal) finance.
Completeness of provided information as a key aspect of successful counterparty verification completeness of provided information as a key aspect of successful verification of counterparty for its financial stability and reliability
Authors: Panishev I. A.
Published: June 2024

The article presents the  results of  the analysis of Russian and foreign information and analytical systems conducted by the author of  this article in the context of  their methods and  volumes of information collection. As a result of the study, a conclusion was made about the completeness and  nature of  the information provided to the  user by information and analytical systems, as well as current shortcomings were highlighted and features that require further improvement and efficiency improvement in the  use of  such tools in  the  field of  business and  finance were emphasized.
Yoğun Bakım Ünitelerinde Çalışan Hemşirelerin Konfor Düzeyleri ile İş Yaşamı Kalitesi Arasındaki İlişkinin İncelenmesi
Authors: Baran Leyla , Demir Derya
Published: June 2024

Bu araştırmanın amacı yoğun bakım ünitelerinde çalışan hemşirelerin konfor düzeyleri ile iş yaşamı kalitesi (İYK) düzeyleri arasındaki ilişkinin incelenmesidir. Tanımlayıcı ve kesitsel nitelikte planlanan bu çalışmanın evrenini bir ilin Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi yoğun bakım ünitelerinde çalışan 118 hemşire, örneklemi ise, araştırmanın içleme kriterlerine uyan ve çalışmaya katılmayı kabul eden 109 hemşire oluşturmuştur. Araştırmada veri toplamak için; Birey Tanıtıcı Bilgi Formu, Hemşirelerde Konfor Ölçeği (HKÖ) ve Hemşirelik İş Yaşamı Kalitesi Ölçeği (HİYKÖ) kullanılmıştır. Verilerin analizinde tanımlayıcı istatistiklerden, parametrik olan ve parametrik olmayan verilerde kullanıma uygun t testleri ve korelasyon tekniklerinden yararlanılmıştır.
Araştırmaya katılan hemşirelerin yaş ortalamaları 27.55±4.26 (min-max=20-48) olup; %83.5’i 30 ve altında yaşta, %59.6’sı kadın, %72.5’i bekar, %89’u lisans ve üzeri mezudur. Hemşirelerin; konfor düzeylerinin 97.83±13.21 (min-max=64-132) olup orta düzeyde olduğu ve cinsiyet, çalışılan birimden ve çalışma şeklinden memnuniyet durumu, aynı birimde çalışma isteği ve işten ayrılma düşüncesine göre farklılık gösterdiği (p
Covid-19 Pandemisi Nedeniyle Avrupa Futbol Liglerinde Verilen Aranın Takım Performanslarına Etkilerinin Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: Gürbüz Emre , Kalkan Naci , Taş Murat
Published: June 2024

Amaç: Bu çalışma Covid-19 pandemisi nedeniyle futbol liglerine 2019-2020 sezonunda verilen aranın takım performanslarına etkisinin incelenmesi amacıyla yapılmıştır. Yöntem: Çalışmada 2019-2020 sezonunda oynanan İtalya Serie A’dan 760, Almanya Bundesliga’dan 612, İngiltere Premier Lig’den 760 ve İspanya La Liga liginden 760 olmak üzere toplam 2982 müsabaka Covid-19 nedeniyle verilen ara öncesi ve sonrası ele alınarak değerlendirilmiştir. Müsabakalara ait veriler www.transfermarkt.com, www.statsperform.com/opta/ websitelerinden elde edilmiştir. Elde edilen veriler Şut sayısı, İsabetli Şut sayısı, Başarılı Pas Yüzdesi, Başarılı Pas Sayısı ve Korner sayısı gibi performans göstergelerinin ara öncesi ve sonrasına göre liglere göre karşılaştırılmıştır. Verilerin analizinde bağımlı örneklemler t testi kullanılmıştır. Bulgulara göre tüm liglerde takımların ortalama şut, isabetli şut, korner istatistikleri düşüş, pas ve isabetli pas istatistikleri ise yükseliş göstermiştir. Bulgular: İngiltere Premier Lig takımlarının şut ortalamaları ara sonrasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı şekilde düşmüştür (t=2,373, p=0,028). EPL takımlarının isabetli şut, pas, başarılı pas ve korner ortalamalarında ise Covid-19 öncesi ve sonrası arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir farklılık tespit edilmemiştir (p>0,05). Bundesliga takımlarının şut ortalamaları ara sonrasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı şekilde düşmüştür (t=2,417, p=0,028). Aynı şekilde Bundesliga takımlarının isabetli şut ortalamaları da Covid-19 öncesi ve sonrası arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı farklılık göstermiştir (t=2,497, p=0,023). La Liga takımlarının başarılı pas oranı anlamlı olarak farklıdır (t=-3,470, p=0,003). La Liga takımlarının başarılı pas sayısı ve korner ortalamaları için Covid-19 öncesi ve sonrası arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir farklılık tespit edilmemiştir (p>0,05). Sonuç: Araştırmanın sonuçlarına göre, ara sonrası dönemde şut ortalamalarının tüm liglerde düştüğü, isabetli şut ortalamasının Serie A hariç diğer liglerde düştüğü, korner ortalamalarının tüm liglerde düştüğü, pas ve isabetli pas oranlarının ise tüm liglerde arttığı görülmüştür.
Biotechnological methods for improving reproduction on sheep breeding program using laparoscopic artificial inseminations in Debrecen, Hungary
Authors: Zegeye Zemenu Birhan , Magyar Károly , Novotni-Dankó Gabriella
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of the LAI method in different types of breeds and seasonal variations. Analysing n=536 LAI in 7 years, there were no significant differences observed in the breed in lambing rates. Although the lambing rate of Prolific Merino (F+) was better than any other breed (45.3%). We found significant differences between breeds of Tzigaia, its pregnancy rate was 19.2%. In the case of prolificacy there were significant differences between breeds: Prolific Merino’s (FF) was the highest (2.38) and, Indigenous Tzigaia’s was the lowest (1.4) from all of them. The obtained results showed that summer inseminations were the most effective in concern of pregnancy rate (49.5%). The results are based on use of the types of semen, showed that using frozen semen was most effective than fresh semen in both parameters, however there were no significant differences. Summarising all tested conditions in our study breeds, seasons and type of semen using LAI the total results of pregnancy rate was 40.3% and the prolificacy was 1.78, respectively. Follow up the out-of-season ovarian, progesterone level of n=36 Prolific Merino were examined and insulin, IGF-1, leptin, T3, and T4 hormones as well, to evaluate the energetic status of the flock. Progesterone analysis showed 43% of examined ewes had a cyclical ovarian function in April and a cyclical ones had good reaction for estrus-induction hormonal treatment. Our results showed that valuable information can be obtained about energy supply from the determination of some metabolic hormones as IGF-1, insulin, leptin.
Impacts of ethnoveterinary medicine integrated with livestock farm technologies on the performance and antimicrobial resistance of indigenous goats in South Africa –A review
Authors: Mthombeni Lesedi , Osotsi Joab Malanda , Novotni-Danko Gabriella
Published: June 2024

Ethnoveterinary medicine and livestock farm technologies represent a junction of innovation and tradition with the aim to accomplish livestock systems that are resilient, productive, and sustainable to meet 21st century challenges, especially the antimicrobial resistance issue. This article aims to emphasise the impacts of integrating ethnoveterinary medicine with livestock farm technologies on the performance of indigenous goats in South Africa. With the growing concern over antimicrobial resistance in livestock, there is a pressing need for complementary approaches to the health of animals and their productivity. In this review, the aim evaluated whether an integrative approach could offer a sustainable alternative that benefits animal health and productivity while addressing the concerns of antimicrobial resistance. Comparative study designs across multiple indigenous goat farms were used to integrate specific medicinal plants in ethnoveterinary medicine with present-day livestock technologies that are used to monitor the effects on livestock performance indicators and antimicrobial resistance patterns. In the treated populations, the outcomes were indicative of substantial improvements in reproduction and growth rates, and alongside, there has been a notable decrease in the markers of antimicrobial resistance. Therefore, it is proposed that through these discoveries, the integration of these traditional and modern approaches not only improve the performance of indigenous goats but also contribute immensely to the mitigation of risks associated with antimicrobial resistance.