bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Field Nonresonant Response of Zundel Cations to Intense Terahertz Radiation
Authors: Wang Kaicheng , Guo Lianghao , Zhang Qin , Ning Hui , Lu Chang , Wang Shaomeng , Gong Yubin
Published: September 2023

The fundamental unit for comprehending the physicochemical properties of water, the Zundel cation configuration H5O2+, has yet to be exhaustively evaluated in terms of its interaction with terahertz (THz) electromagnetic waves, characterized by sub-picosecond oscillation periods or pulse widths. In this study, we embark on an investigation of the broad resonance and high-field nonresonant effects of intense THz radiation (ITR) on Zundel cations, utilizing a multifaceted methodological approach that includes density functional theory (DFT) calculations, finite difference time domain (FDTD) algorithm of the Schrödinger equation, and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations. Our analysis reveals that the proton potential energy surface (PES) varies in response to the external electric (E) field, suggesting that the interaction frequency of the central proton with the electromagnetic wave encompasses the THz band. This resonance effect is associated with proton behavior that may oscillate or demonstrate periodic tunneling. Moreover, our work uncovers the high-field nonresonant effects of ITR on Zundel cations, manifesting in proton transfer and vibrational excitation of the system. Our findings contribute to the understanding of the interaction between Zundel species and electromagnetic waves by presenting a microscopic view of proton transfer as informed by wavefunction evolution.
Non-Calcified Coronary Artery Plaque on Coronary Computed Tomography Angiogram: Prevalence and Significance
Authors: Alyami Bandar , Santer Matthew , Seetharam Karthik , Velu Dhivya , Gadde Eswar , Patel Bansari , Hamirani Yasmin S.
Published: September 2023

Objective: We aimed to assess the prevalence of non-calcified plaque (NCP) on computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. In addition, we seek to compare plaque assessment on CCTA with intravascular ultrasound–virtual histology (IVUS-VH) and to assess the prognostic value of non-calcified plaques (NCPs). Background: The CCTA can characterize coronary plaques and help quantify burden. Furthermore, it can provide additional prognostic information which can enable further risk stratification of patients. Methods: We performed a broad comprehensive review of the current literature pertaining to CCTA and primarily isolated NCP in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. In addition, our review included studies correlating plaque on CT with IVUS-VH. Conclusions: NCP is the initial precursor of calcified plaque and serves as a prominent marker of early coronary atherosclerosis. By detecting NCP during early stages, several measures can be implemented which can alter the evolutionary course of the underlying disease. This can potentially lead to a lower incidence of cardiovascular events.
Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Ethanol in a Human Study: New Modification of Mathematic Model
Authors: Zekan Paulo , Ljubičić Neven , Blagaić Vladimir , Dolanc Ivan , Jonjić Antonija , Čoklo Miran , Blagaić Alenka Boban
Published: September 2023

In the pharmacokinetic analysis of ethanol after oral administration, only single- or two-compartment models are used, but their precision in estimating pharmacokinetic parameters might be insufficient. In a recent study, pharmacokinetic analysis using a modified Norberg three-compartment model was performed after oral administration of differently sweetened alcoholic solutions and compared to pharmacokinetic analysis using the classic Widmark model. On three occasions, eight male volunteers consumed differently sweetened alcoholic solutions: non-sweetened, sweetened with sucrose, and sweetened with steviol glycoside. Blood ethanol concentration was determined from samples obtained at t = 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 min after consumption. Pharmacokinetic analysis was performed model independently, using the classic Widmarks model and using the modified Norberg model. Results showed that estimated pharmacokinetic parameters depend on the type of model used. The classic Widmark model in particular overestimated the fraction of absorbed ethanol from the gastrointestinal system to systemic circulation. Furthermore, the type of sweetener also affected pharmacokinetic parameters, although the difference was not statistically significant. In conclusion, the novel pharmacokinetic model, while being more physiological, fits experimental data better and hence is more suitable for modelling real-life alcohol consumption. In addition, the effect of natural non-caloric sweetener steviol glycoside on ethanol pharmacokinetics, analysed for the first time in the current research, might be different when compared to the common-used sweetener sucrose.
Understanding the Risks of Diffusion of Cyanobacteria Toxins in Rivers, Lakes, and Potable Water
Authors: Thawabteh Amin Mahmood , Naseef Hani A , Karaman Donia , Bufo Sabino A. , Scrano Laura , Karaman Rafik
Published: September 2023

Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, may be prevalent in our rivers and tap water. These minuscule bacteria can grow swiftly and form blooms in warm, nutrient-rich water. Toxins produced by cyanobacteria can pollute rivers and streams and harm the liver and nervous system in humans. This review highlights the properties of 25 toxin types produced by 12 different cyanobacteria genera. The review also covered strategies for reducing and controlling cyanobacteria issues. These include using physical or chemical treatments, cutting back on fertilizer input, algal lawn scrubbers, and antagonistic microorganisms for biocontrol. Micro-, nano- and ultrafiltration techniques could be used for the removal of internal and extracellular cyanotoxins, in addition to powdered or granular activated carbon, ozonation, sedimentation, ultraviolet radiation, potassium permanganate, free chlorine, and pre-treatment oxidation techniques. The efficiency of treatment techniques for removing intracellular and extracellular cyanotoxins is also demonstrated. These approaches aim to lessen the risks of cyanobacterial blooms and associated toxins. Effective management of cyanobacteria in water systems depends on early detection and quick action. Cyanobacteria cells and their toxins can be detected using microscopy, molecular methods, chromatography, and spectroscopy. Understanding the causes of blooms and the many ways for their detection and elimination will help the management of this crucial environmental issue.
Replication of Human Sapovirus in Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Matsumoto Naomi , Kurokawa Shiho , Tamiya Shigeyuki , Nakamura Yutaka , Sakon Naomi , Okitsu Shoko , Ushijima Hiroshi , Yuki Yoshikazu , Kiyono Hiroshi , Sato Shintaro
Published: September 2023

Sapoviruses, like noroviruses, are single-stranded positive-sense RNA viruses classified in the family Caliciviridae and are recognized as a causative pathogen of diarrhea in infants and the elderly. Like human norovirus, human sapovirus (HuSaV) has long been difficult to replicate in vitro. Recently, it has been reported that HuSaV can be replicated in vitro by using intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) derived from human tissues and cell lines derived from testicular and duodenal cancers. In this study, we report that multiple genotypes of HuSaV can sufficiently infect and replicate in human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived IECs. We also show that this HuSaV replication system can be used to investigate the conditions for inactivation of HuSaV by heat and alcohol, and the effects of virus neutralization of antisera obtained by immunization with vaccine antigens, under conditions closer to the living environment. The results of this study confirm that HuSaV can also infect and replicate in human normal IECs regardless of their origin and are expected to contribute to future virological studies.
An In Silico Design of Peptides Targeting the S1/S2 Cleavage Site of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
Authors: Ho Chian , Nazarie Wan Fahmi Wan Mohamad , Lee Ping-Chin
Published: September 2023

SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, invades host cells via its spike protein, which includes critical binding regions, such as the receptor-binding domain (RBD), the S1/S2 cleavage site, the S2 cleavage site, and heptad-repeat (HR) sections. Peptides targeting the RBD and HR1 inhibit binding to host ACE2 receptors and the formation of the fusion core. Other peptides target proteases, such as TMPRSS2 and cathepsin L, to prevent the cleavage of the S protein. However, research has largely ignored peptides targeting the S1/S2 cleavage site. In this study, bioinformatics was used to investigate the binding of the S1/S2 cleavage site to host proteases, including furin, trypsin, TMPRSS2, matriptase, cathepsin B, and cathepsin L. Peptides targeting the S1/S2 site were designed by identifying binding residues. Peptides were docked to the S1/S2 site using HADDOCK (High-Ambiguity-Driven protein–protein DOCKing). Nine peptides with the lowest HADDOCK scores and strong binding affinities were selected, which was followed by molecular dynamics simulations (MDSs) for further investigation. Among these peptides, BR582 and BR599 stand out. They exhibited relatively high interaction energies with the S protein at −1004.769 ± 21.2 kJ/mol and −1040.334 ± 24.1 kJ/mol, respectively. It is noteworthy that the binding of these peptides to the S protein remained stable during the MDSs. In conclusion, this research highlights the potential of peptides targeting the S1/S2 cleavage site as a means to prevent SARS-CoV-2 from entering cells, and contributes to the development of therapeutic interventions against COVID-19.
Optimizing the Conditions for Whole-Genome Sequencing of Avian Reoviruses
Authors: Narvaez Sonsiray Alvarez , Harrell Telvin L. , Oluwayinka Olatunde , Sellers Holly S. , Khalid Zubair , Hauck Ruediger , Chowdhury Erfan U. , Conrad Steven J.
Published: September 2023

Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is becoming an essential tool to characterize the genomes of avian reovirus (ARV), a viral disease of economic significance to poultry producers. The current strategies and procedures used to obtain the complete genome sequences of ARV isolates are not cost-effective because most of the genetic material data resulting from next-generation sequencing belong to the host and cannot be used to assemble the viral genome. The purpose of this study was to develop a workflow to enrich the ARV genomic content in a sample before subjecting it to next-generation sequencing (NGS). Herein, we compare four different ARV purification and enrichment approaches at the virion, RNA and cDNA levels to determine which treatment or treatment combination would provide a higher proportion of ARV-specific reads after WGS. Seven ARV isolates were subjected to different combinations of virion purification via ultracentrifugation in sucrose density gradient or Capto Core 700 resin with or without a subsequent Benzonase treatment, followed by a chicken rRNA depletion step after RNA extraction and a final ARV cDNA amplification step using a single-primer amplification assay. Our results show that the combination of Capto Core 700 resin, Chicken rRNA depletion and cDNA amplification is the most cost-effective strategy to obtain ARV whole genomes after short-read sequencing.
Genomic Surveillance Reveals the Rapid Expansion of the XBB Lineage among Circulating SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Lineages in Southeastern Wisconsin, USA
Authors: Ramaiah Arunachalam , Khubbar Manjeet , Akinyemi Katherine , Bauer Amy , Carranza Francisco , Weiner Joshua , Bhattacharyya Sanjib , Payne David , Balakrishnan Nandhakumar
Published: September 2023

SARS-CoV-2 caused a life-threatening COVID-19 pandemic outbreak worldwide. The Southeastern Region of Wisconsin, USA (SERW) includes large urban Milwaukee and six suburban counties, namely Kenosha, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth, Washington and Waukesha. Due to the lack of detailed SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance in the suburban populations of the SERW, whole-genome sequencing was employed to investigate circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages and characterize dominant XBB lineages among this SERW population from November 2021 to April 2023. For an unbiased data analysis, we combined our 6709 SARS-CoV-2 sequences with 1520 sequences from the same geographical region submitted by other laboratories. Our study shows that SARS-CoV-2 genomes were distributed into 357 lineages/sublineages belonging to 13 clades, of which 88.8% were from Omicron. We document dominant sublineages XBB.1.5 and surging XBB.1.16 and XBB.1.9.1 with a few additional functional mutations in Spike, which are known to contribute to higher viral reproduction, enhanced transmission and immune evasion. Mutational profile assessment of XBB.1.5 Spike identifies 38 defining mutations with high prevalence occurring in 49.8–99.6% of the sequences studied, of which 32 mutations were in three functional domains. Phylogenetic and genetic relatedness between XBB.1.5 sequences reveal potential virus transmission occurring within households and within and between Southeastern Wisconsin counties. A comprehensive phylogeny of XBB.1.5 with global sub-dataset sequences confirms the wide spread of genetically similar SARS-CoV-2 strains within the same geographical area. Altogether, this study identified proportions of circulating Omicron variants and genetic characterization of XBB.1.5 in the SERW population, which helped state and national public health agencies to make compelling mitigation efforts to reduce COVID-19 transmission in the communities and monitor emerging lineages for their impact on diagnostics, treatments and vaccines.
CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Targeting of BPV-1-Transformed Primary Equine Sarcoid Fibroblasts
Authors: Monod Anne , Koch Christoph , Jindra Christoph , Haspeslagh Maarten , Howald Denise , Wenker Christian , Gerber Vinzenz , Rottenberg Sven , Hahn Kerstin
Published: September 2023

Equine sarcoids (EqS) are fibroblast-derived skin tumors associated with bovine papillomavirus 1 and 2 (BPV-1 and -2). Based on Southern blotting, the BPV-1 genome was not found to be integrated in the host cell genome, suggesting that EqS pathogenesis does not result from insertional mutagenesis. Hence, CRISPR/Cas9 implies an interesting tool for selectively targeting BPV-1 episomes or genetically anchored suspected host factors. To address this in a proof-of-concept study, we confirmed the exclusive episomal persistence of BPV-1 in EqS using targeted locus amplification (TLA). To investigate the CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing of BPV-1 episomes, primary equine fibroblast cultures were established and characterized. In the EqS fibroblast cultures, CRISPR-mediated targeting of the episomal E5 and E6 oncogenes as well as the BPV-1 long control region was successful and resulted in a pronounced reduction of the BPV-1 load. Moreover, the deletion of the equine Vimentin (VIM), which is highly expressed in EqS, considerably decreased the number of BPV-1 episomes. Our results suggest CRISPR/Cas9-based gene targeting may serve as a tool to help further unravel the biology of EqS pathogenesis.
Immune Priming of Pacific Oysters (Crassostrea gigas) to Induce Resistance to Ostreid herpesvirus 1: Comparison of Infectious and Inactivated OsHV-1 with Poly I:C
Authors: de Kantzow Maximilian , Hick Paul M. , Whittington Richard J.
Published: September 2023

Pacific oyster mortality syndrome (POMS), which is caused by Ostreid herpesvirus 1 (OsHV-1), causes economic losses in Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) aquaculture in many countries. Reducing the mortality in disease outbreaks requires changing the host, pathogen and environment interactions to favor the host. Survivors of natural exposure to OsHV-1 are able to survive subsequent outbreaks. This has been replicated under laboratory conditions, suggesting the existence of an immune response. The aim of the present study is to compare the effects of prior exposure to infectious OsHV-1, heat-inactivated OsHV-1 and the chemical anti-viral immune stimulant poly I:C on mortality following exposure to virulent OsHV-1. All treatments were administered by intramuscular injection. Oysters were maintained at 18 °C for 14 days; then, the temperature was increased to 22 °C and the oysters were challenged with virulent OsHV-1. Heat-inactivated OsHV-1, infectious OsHV-1 and poly I:C all induced significant protection against mortality, with the hazard of death being 0.41, 0.18 and 0.02, respectively, compared to the controls, which had no immune priming. The replication of OsHV-1 on first exposure was not required to induce a protective response. While the underlying mechanisms for protection remain to be elucidated, conditioning for resistance to POMS by prior exposure to inactivated or infectious OsHV-1 may have practical applications in oyster farming but requires further development to optimize the dose and delivery mechanism and evaluate the duration of protection.
The Antiviral Factor SERINC5 Impairs the Expression of Non-Self-DNA
Authors: Shi Yuhang , Simpson Sydney , Ahmed Shahad K. , Chen Yuexuan , Tavakoli-Tameh Aidin , Janaka Sanath Kumar , Evans David T. , Serra-Moreno Ruth
Published: September 2023

SERINC5 is a restriction factor that becomes incorporated into nascent retroviral particles, impairing their ability to infect target cells. In turn, retroviruses have evolved countermeasures against SERINC5. For instance, the primate lentiviruses (HIV and SIV) use Nef, Moloney Murine Leukemia Virus (MLV) uses GlycoGag, and Equine Infectious Anemia Virus (EIAV) uses S2 to remove SERINC5 from the plasma membrane, preventing its incorporation into progeny virions. Recent studies have shown that SERINC5 also restricts other viruses, such as Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Classical Swine Fever Virus (CSFV), although through a different mechanism, suggesting that SERINC5 can interfere with multiple stages of the virus life cycle. To investigate whether SERINC5 can also impact other steps of the replication cycle of HIV, the effects of SERINC5 on viral transcripts, proteins, and virus progeny size were studied. Here, we report that SERINC5 causes significant defects in HIV gene expression, which impacts virion production. While the underlying mechanism is still unknown, we found that the restriction occurs at the transcriptional level and similarly affects plasmid and non-integrated proviral DNA (ectopic or non-self-DNA). However, SERINC5 causes no defects in the expression of viral RNA, host genes, or proviral DNA that is integrated in the cellular genome. Hence, our findings reveal that SERINC5’s actions in host defense extend beyond blocking virus entry.
Detection of Alpha- and Betacoronaviruses in Small Mammals in Western Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Xu Fen-Hui , Han Pei-Yu , Tian Jia-Wei , Zong Li-Dong , Yin Hong-Min , Zhao Jun-Ying , Yang Ze , Kong Wei , Ge Xing-Yi , Zhang Yun-Zhi
Published: September 2023

The genetic diversity of coronaviruses (CoVs) is high, and their infection in animals has not yet been fully revealed. By RT-PCR detection of the partial RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene of CoVs, we screened a total of 502 small mammals in the Dali and Nujiang prefectures of Western Yunnan Province, China. The number of overall CoV positives was 20, including β-CoV (n = 13) and α-CoV (n = 7), with a 3.98% prevalence in rectal tissue samples. The identity of the partial RdRp genes obtained for 13 strains of β-CoV was 83.42–99.23% at the nucleotide level, and it is worth noting that the two strains from Kachin red-backed voles showed high identity to BOV-36/IND/2015 from Indian bovines and DcCoV-HKU23 from dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Morocco; the nucleotide identity was between 97.86 and 98.33%. Similarly, the identity of the seven strains of α-CoV among the partial RdRp sequences was 94.00–99.18% at nucleotide levels. The viral load in different tissues was measured by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). The average CoV viral load in small mammalian rectal tissue was 1.35 × 106 copies/g; differently, the mean CoV viral load in liver, heart, lung, spleen, and kidney tissue was from 0.97 × 103 to 3.95 × 103 copies/g, which revealed that CoV has extensive tropism in rectal tissue in small mammals (p < 0.0001). These results revealed the genetic diversity, epidemiology, and infective tropism of α-CoV and β-CoV in small mammals from Dali and Nujiang, which deepens the comprehension of the retention and infection of coronavirus in natural hosts.
Isolation and Characterization of a Novel Recombinant Classical Pseudorabies Virus in the Context of the Variant Strains Pandemic in China
Authors: Lian Zhengmin , Liu Panrao , Zhu Zhenbang , Sun Zhe , Yu Xiuling , Deng Junhua , Li Ruichao , Li Xiangdong , Tian Kegong
Published: September 2023

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) variants were discovered in immunized pigs in Northern China and have become the dominant strains since 2011, which caused huge economic losses. In this study, a classical PRV strain was successfully isolated in a PRV gE positive swine farm. The complete genome sequence was obtained using a high-throughput sequencing method and the virus was named JS-2020. The nucleotide homology analysis and phylogenetic tree based on complete genome sequences or gC gene showed that the JS-2020 strain was relatively close to the classical Ea strain in genotype II clade. However, a large number of amino acid variations occurred in the JS-2020 strain compared with the Ea strain, including multiple immunogenic and virulence-related genes. In particular, the gE protein of JS-2020 was similar to earlier Chinese PRV strains without Aspartate insertion. However, the amino acid variations analysis based on major immunogenic and virulence-related genes showed that the JS-2020 strain was not only homologous with earlier PRV strains, but also with strains isolated in recent years. Moreover, the JS-2020 strain was identified as a recombinant between the GXGG-2016 and HLJ-2013 strains. The pathogenicity analysis proved that the PRV JS-2020 strain has typical neurogenic infections and a strong pathogenicity in mice. Together, a novel recombinant classical strain was isolated and characterized in the context of the PRV variant pandemic in China. This study provided some valuable information for the study of the evolution of PRV in China.
BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness in Patients with Coeliac Disease Autoimmunity: Real-World Data from Mass Vaccination Campaign
Authors: Ben-Tov Amir , Lebwohl Benjamin , Banon Tamar , Chodick Gabriel , Kariv Revital , Assa Amit , Gazit Sivan , Patalon Tal
Published: September 2023

Background: Data on COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness among patients with coeliac disease are currently lacking because patients with immune conditions were excluded from clinical trials. We used our coeliac disease autoimmunity (CDA) cohort to explore the effectiveness of the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection among patients with CDA. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients with positive autoantibodies against tissue transglutaminase (tTG-IgA). In the primary analysis, the cohort included CDA patients who received two vaccine doses against COVID-19 and matched patients in a 1:3 ratio. Patients were divided into subgroups based on their positive tTG-IgA level at diagnosis and their current serology status. Results: The cohort included 5381 vaccinated patients with CDA and 14,939 matched vaccinated patients. The risk for breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infection evaluated with Kaplan–Meier survival analysis via log-rank tests was similar between groups (p = 0.71). In a Cox regression survival analysis, the hazard ratio for breakthrough infection among patients with CDA compared to matched patients was 0.91 (95% confidence interval = 0.77–1.09). Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccination is effective in patients with coeliac disease autoimmunity. Vaccine effectiveness was comparable to the reference population.
B-Cell Lymphoma of the Middle Ear Treated with Multidrug Chemotherapy in a Cat
Authors: Takahashi Tomoko , Nagata Hiroyuki , Kondo Hirotaka
Published: September 2023

Primary lymphoma of the middle ear is rare in cats, and little information has been accumulated on the treatment and course. An 11-year-old spayed female mixed-breed cat was brought to our hospital with facial nerve paralysis, which had been stable using prednisolone for 3 months. She was diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma of the right middle ear after otoscopic sampling, which showed evidence of the filling of bilateral tympanic bullae on computed tomography. Hepatic involvement was suspected, and she was treated with multidrug chemotherapy, resulting in clinical remission. On day 176, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography were performed at checkup, revealing tumor invasion into the nasopharyngeal region and the recurrence of hepatic lesions without any brain abnormality. Nasal congestion then worsened, and the patient died on day 228 after presenting with generalized seizures. Clinicians should be mindful of middle ear lymphoma as a differential diagnosis in cats who present with a sign of otitis media, especially whose condition does respond to corticosteroid treatment. The prognosis for feline middle ear lymphoma might not be as poor as previous reports, and multidrug chemotherapy might result in remission of the disease.
Groundwater Investigation through Electrical Resistivity Tomography in the Galhareri District, Galgaduud Region, Somalia: Insights into Hydrogeological Properties
Authors: Hussein Mahad Abdullahi , Ali Mohammed Yusuf , Hussein Hassan Ali
Published: September 2023

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) was conducted to delineate groundwater potential zones in villages located in the Galhareri district of the Galgaduud region, central Somalia. A total of four ERT profiles were examined using the gradient configuration, chosen for its practical advantages over other configurations. The study revealed that all profiles were situated within similar geological environments, characterized by comparable rock types. However, notable disparities were observed in lithological variations, particularly in the texture of rocks encountered at different locations and in the thicknesses of the encountered geo-electric layers. The two-dimensional inversion results derived from the electrical resistivity data unveiled the presence of four geo-electrical layers. The first layer was interpreted as sand dunes. The second layer exhibited relatively higher resistivity values, indicating the presence of compact limestone and sandstone. The resistivity of the third layer suggested the existence of a lower resistivity layer, interpreted as weathered limestone, while the fourth layer demonstrated very low inverted resistivity, interpreted as sandy clay with sandstone. The ERT models constructed for the survey area effectively delineated the aquifer zone, represented by layer 3, which likely consists of weathered limestone, sandy clay, and sandstone. The resistivity values obtained for the aquifer zone, specifically at depths ranging from 200 to 300 m, were relatively low, suggesting that the groundwater quality is brackish in nature.
Implementation of Environmental Innovations by Processing Industry Enterprises
Authors:   Arzamas branch of National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Mitrofanova Marina
Published: September 2023

Results of the analysis of implementing environmental innovations by manufacturing enterprises, carried out on the basis of methods for processing qualitative and quantitative information, are presented. The main problems hindering the innovation activity of manufacturing enterprises are outlined, among them the most significant ones are the lack of funds for introducing innovations, the high cost of innovations. The author proposes the ways of addressing these problems: further development of the legislative framework and regulatory documents, use of a full-cycle approach and long-term cooperation with the value chain partners, raising of funds from development institutions and specialized investment funds, application of leasing schemes.
Addressing the Inequality of Disasters: The Role of Faith-based Organizations in Disaster Response and Recovery
Authors: Scheffert Aynsley , Ellor James
Published: September 2023

Disasters have a significant global impact every year and disproportionally effect vulnerable populations. Disaster response efforts are often inequitable leaving already vulnerable populations at risk. These inequities in disaster response represent a social justice concern for congregations and congregational social workers and must be considered in future disaster recovery efforts. As churches and faith organizations provide essential disaster response and recovery services, this article outlines a model for increased inequity in provision of disaster response and recovery efforts. A case illustration using the COVID-19 pandemic is provided for further exploration of the equitable disaster response model in the context of congregations and congregational social work.
La burocrazia palatina di Costantinopoli, l’uso del latino e le relazioni con l’Occidente. Riflessioni di storia politica e culturale su alcuni passi di Giovanni Lido
Authors: Roberto Umberto
Published: September 2023

In alcuni brani del De magistratibus Giovanni Lido afferma la necessità di preservare la conoscenza e l’uso del latino tra i funzionari alla corte dell’impero d’Oriente. Secondo Lido, la conoscenza del latino assicura la continuità politica e culturale tra l’antica e la nuova Roma ; inoltre, rende possibili i rapporti tra l’aristocrazia senatoriale d’Occidente e l’aristocrazia di Costantinopoli, come pure la trasmissione di tradizioni, storia e cultura. La decisione di due prefetti del pretorio – Ciro di Panopoli sotto Teodosio II e Giovanni di Cappadocia sotto Giustiniano – di abbandonare l’uso del latino è criticata da Lido in quanto causa di declino per le istituzioni dell’impero d’Oriente.
«Car je ne suis qu’un messager, et non l’auteur» : la communication exilique d’Hilaire de Poitiers (356-360)
Authors: Melo Melissa
Published: September 2023

L’exil épiscopal apparaît comme l’un des phénomènes socioculturels les plus complexes de l’Antiquité car, tout en reflétant les efforts impériaux pour freiner les dissidences religieuses, il offrait un immense potentiel pour le développement de communautés, pour le dialogue entre évêques de doctrines divergentes, ainsi que pour leur utilisation de ce statut d’exilé comme moyen de légitimer leur participation aux débats doctrinaux. Cet article se propose d’étudier la manière dont l’évêque nicéen Hilaire de Poitiers, exilé en Phrygie entre 356 et 360, a tenté de rétablir sa communication avec les évêques gaulois et de se positionner comme un conciliateur entre les épiscopats orientaux et occidentaux devant ses pairs, mais aussi devant l’empereur Constance II. Pour cela, il s’appuie sur les sources que constituent le De Synodis (359) et l’Ad Constantium Imperatorem (360).
Trajan clemens ?
Authors: Galinier Martin
Published: September 2023

Les bas-reliefs de la colonne Trajane offrent aux scènes de suppliques un contexte narratif qui permet de mieux comprendre la gestuelle de Trajan et son usage de la clementia vis-à-vis des barbares, en regard de son monnayage et de sa pratique de la libertas à l’endroit des citoyens. De l’analyse, il ressort que Trajan se conforma à un modèle républicain plus que césarien de la clementia sur le champ de bataille, tandis qu’il limita l’usage de cette dernière dans les procès, privilégiant les liens de pietas et fides avec les citoyens.
Investigating false positive results in urine analysis using the immunoassay method for substance metabolite detection: a retrospective analysis
Authors: ZENGİN İSPİR Gamze , NAZLI Şerif Bora
Published: September 2023

Objective: This study aims to investigate the false positive outcomes in urine analysis via the immunoassay method within an addiction treatment center outpatient clinic. While widely utilized for substance detection, false positive results in the immunoassay method can cause misleading. This study aims to attract attention to false positivity and its implications.

Methods: Conducted at an Alcohol and Drug Addiction Center outpatient clinic, the study retrospectively examines urine analyses from February to May 2023. Among 5109 immunoassay-based urine analyses, only 25 were subjected to confirmation through liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS).

Results: The findings demonstrate that LC-MS verified 40% of immunoassay-positive urine samples as true positives. Significantly, false positive results were notable, particularly in cases involving benzodiazepines. The study accentuates a noteworthy disparity between initial immunoassay outcomes and subsequent confirmatory tests, casting doubts on the reliability of the immunoassay method. A fundamental discovery is the consistent identification of pregabalin and gabapentin in urine samples yielding false positive benzodiazepine results during confirmation analysis. This revelation prompts inquiries into the potential cross-reactivity of these medications in immunoassay-based tests, suggesting the need for careful consideration in clinical and forensic contexts.

Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of confirmatory testing for result accuracy and the multifaceted implications of false positives on patient-doctor relationships, treatment decisions, and patient safety. Acknowledging the study's limitations, such as its retrospective nature and limited participant pool, the research underscores the requirement for a comprehensive approach to substance detection, merging screening and confirmatory analyses to enhance diagnostic dependability.
Interações entre plantas medicinais e medicamentos alopáticos utilizados por idosos de uma unidade básica de saúde em um município do cone sul do estado de Rondônia
Authors: Trevizani Milena de Souza , Dos Santos Camila Mendes , Da Costa Fernando Ramos Neves , Goebel Rosalina de Oliveira Reis
Published: September 2023

O consumo de plantas medicinais em associação com medicamentos industrializados caracteriza-se um risco à saúde dos idosos com doenças crônicas não transmissíveis, devido às potenciais interações medicamentosas e seus efeitos adversos. Tornou-se evidente a importância de realizar um levantamento para averiguar interações decorrentes do uso concomitante de plantas medicinais e medicamentos alopáticos pela população da terceira idade. O estudo foi realizado através de uma investigação qualitativa e quantitativa, com dados obtidos no período de agosto a outubro de 2022, através da aplicação de um questionário semiestruturado, englobando uma população de 30 pessoas entre a faixa etária de 65 a 85 anos, que faziam uso concomitante de plantas medicinais e medicamentos alopáticos. Foi evidenciado o predomínio do público feminino, a qual 90,0% afirmaram ter obtido as plantas pelo cultivo em hortas domesticas, a frequência de uso predominante foi, mais de 3 vezes ao mês (43,3%), sendo que 80,0% desconheciam interações entre planta e medicamentos e 60,0% não acreditavam que as mesmas podem causar mal à saúde. Das 20 espécies mencionadas, foram encontradas 16 plantas com potencial de interações entre os medicamentos alopáticos utilizados pelos idosos, ademais, a alfazema, tansagem e ora-pro-nóbis, não apresentam achados bibliográficos para comparar possíveis interações, apenas a arruda não foi correlacionada com interação entre os medicamentos citados. Desse modo, faz-se necessário o incentivo a pesquisas sobre o potencial de interação entre planta-medicamento, além de intensificar a promoção do uso racional e seguro da medicina tradicional, tendo em foco a saúde do idoso, sendo alvos fáceis destas interações.
The Association Between Helicobacter pylori Infection With Different Types of Colon Cancer and Children’s Diseases: An Overview of Meta-analyses
Authors: Banasaz Bahar , Saadat Sara , Kalantar-Neyestanaki Davood , Zarrinfar Hossein , Shakeri Fahimeh , Barani Mahmood , Mohammadinejad Reza , Mirzaee Firoozeh , Ghazanfarpour Masumeh
Published: September 2023

Objectives: Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative curved bacillus that assumes a significant role in colon cancer and children´s diseases. This study aimed to examine the association between H. pylori infection with colon cancer and children´s diseases in order to achieve a comprehensive understanding of these associations and for future works. Methods: Three main databases (i.e., Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials [CENTRAL], Scopus, and MEDLINE) were systematically searched by two reviewers from their inception date to 2022 in order to determine the association between the H. pylori infection with the colon cancer and children’s diseases. Results: The findings of two meta-analyses were similar regarding the positive association between the risks of colorectal neoplasm (pooled OR=0.18; 95% CI of 0.99–1.40; P>0.05) and colon neoplasia (pooled OR=0.41; 95% confidence interval 1.24–1.60; P=0.000). H. pylori was associated with an increased risk of colorectal adenoma, adenocarcinoma, and advanced adenoma. Also H. pylori infection was correlated with a high risk of iron deficiency anemia (IDA), otitis media with effusion (OME), Henoch-Schonlein purpura, and growth disorders in children. Conclusions: In sum, the H. pylori infection may have been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer and children’s diseases.
Model of formation of individual career paths of military university students under conditions of social uncertainty
Authors: Smirnova Ekaterina E. , Bredneva Natalia A.
Published: September 2023

The article presents the results of scientific and practical research on the problem of individual trajectories formation of professional career of military university students under conditions of social uncertainty, as well as a model of formation of individual career paths of military university students under conditions of social uncertainty. Analysis of the military universities practice shows that cadets need psychological and pedagogical assistance in modeling the individual trajectory of professional career in order to better understand their professional development, which would be built into the training and extracurricular activities of the future officer. The creation of such conditions will reduce the possibility of errors and difficulties in the preparation and modelling of the individual trajectory of his professional career by the future officer, increase the possibility of achieving significant results in the military professional activities with less effort, time and resources. The relevance of the ideas contained in the study lies in the fact that the author in the course of research work formulated pedagogical conditions, as well as the creation of a pedagogical environment conducive to the activation of personal, Professional and career potential of the cadet in the process of formation of individual career paths in conditions of social uncertainty.
Transformation of the family image as a subject of upbringing in Soviet oral and pictorial culture (1917-1991)
Authors: Beskrovnaya Tat’yana V. , Shakurova Marina V.
Published: September 2023

The article actualizes development concepts of the family image as a subject of upbringing in Soviet oral and pictorial culture. The purpose of this article is to trace the transformation of Soviet family image in specific historical conditions and to present the correlation between the domination of the maternal or paternal image and the educational effect of family in general - via analysis of works of Soviet art in 1917-1991. Research design: The author uses to trace transformation of the family image as a subject of upbringing in Soviet oral and pictorial culture such methods as literature analysis, synthesis, association method, comparative historical analysis. The conclusion dwells upon the idealization and even hypertrophy of the family image presented in Soviet oral and pictorial culture - which is premised on the necessity of the family image to be aligned with main ideological guidelines consistent for the particular history period. Nevertheless, the main distinctive feature of Soviet family is its educational impact, traditionalism, stability, aspiration for bright new future. Distinctness of the image of Soviet family, existing in the realm of ideological principles, is defined in Soviet oral and pictorial culture. Art, while forming in Soviet mass consciousness the family image specified by ideology, could come through the strict censorship and reveal the real family life. It is art that makes it possible to see and appraise in objective way the educational role of Soviet family in communist society.
Behaviour of Adolescent Boys and Girls with Intact and Impaired Intellect Intellect (Based on Parents’ Assessment)
Authors: Fatikhova Lidiya F.
Published: September 2023

The article presents results of parents’ assessment study comparison on safe behaviour of teenagers with unimpaired and impaired intellect in dangerous situations. A total of 105 parents (mainly mothers) of 15-17 year old teenagers participated in the study: 47 parents of teenagers with unimpaired intellect, 58 parents of teenagers with impaired intellect (mild mental handicap), 54 parents of boys, 51 parents of girls. Through parental questionnaires, data on the safety behaviour of teenagers was obtained according to the absence/presence of intellectual disabilities and according to sexual identity in different situations concerning their safe/dangerous behaviour on the road, on a walk, when using electrical appliances, sharp cutting objects, etc. The findings reveal the justification basis to form a safe behaviour culture in teenagers, if they have or do not have impaired intellect or if they belong to different sexes.
Self-directed assessment framework for practical tasks for Clothing and Textile Technology undergraduate teacher trainees under COVID-19 conditions
Authors: Masina Rumbidzayi , Mukaro Joe Phaeton
Published: September 2023

Worldwide, COVID-19 struck as a pandemic. It affected social and economic life in several countries, and the educational system was no exception. Due to the prevalence of the pandemic digital technology has largely come as a critical addition to face-to-face interactions for educational purposes. The majority of learning is now self-directed. A paradigm shift from direct assessment to self-directed assessment was required in light of this development. The purpose of this study was to design an assessment framework for Clothing and Textiles Technology (CTT) undergraduates specifically for practical work and projects. The study derived its understanding from the key concepts that constitute assessment as the broader construct associated with sub-constructs such as skills/competencies and rubric. A qualitative approach was used in which forty students and four lecturers from four purposely selected universities in Zimbabwe participated. Curriculum documents were analysed to identify skills/competencies to be assessed. Focus group discussions with lecturers confirmed skills/competencies identified and then ascertained the rubric for assessment. Validation of the framework was done using a Likert scale with students followed by focus group interviews. Data were analysed thematically. Results showed that students found the model very useful for self-directed assessment of the competencies and skills as outlined by the curriculum document for CTT. Future explorations will help determine the usefulness of a similar framework in theoretic concepts of the CTT curriculum.
Effect of COVID-19 on inclusive mathematics education
Authors: Le Hanie Linda , Van Putten Sonja , Botha Hanlie
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed education all over the world. As part of emergency remote teaching (ERT), the switch to online instruction had several technological, pedagogical and social challenges. Oral hearing impaired (HI) learners experienced difficulties during synchronous online lessons with hearing devices not picking up sounds, disruption to comprehend the lesson, not familiar with the online devices and emotional side-effects (Krishnan et al., 2020). The research question that guided this study is what is the influence of COVID-19 on mathematics teachers’ inclusive practices for oral HI learners? This study followed a case study design and collected data from two high school inclusive mathematics teachers before the pandemic and during ERT. The South African Department of Basic Education’s (DBE, 2011) Guidelines for responding to learner diversity in the classroom through curriculum and assessment policy statements and Whittle, Tiwari, Yan and Williams’ (2020) ERT environment framework’s design step guided the data collection and analysis processes. Data was collected in the form of interviews, observations and document analysis. It was found that teachers should receive adequate training when teaching in an inclusive school focusing on hearing impairments. During ERT the teachers felt teaching became a 24-hour job, the school’s expectations were high and they had strict requirements on the appearances of the videos. They had to produce between 12 and 16 videos per week for asynchronous teaching. Hardly any inclusive practices were implemented during ERT. The HI learners were neglected during the lockdown of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic as the teachers only focussed on making videos and tried to cope with the demands. More research needs to be done to determine how the COVID-19 pandemic, and possible future pandemics, and lack of inclusive practices influence the HI learners’ understanding and progression in mathematics. From that a framework can then be constructed to guide inclusive teachers in possible future pandemics and ERT scenarios.
ANALIS USER EXPERIECE DALAM APLIKASI SOCO BY SOCIOLLA UNTUK MENINGKATKAN PENGALAMAN PENGGUNA MENGGUNAKAN PENDEKATAN DESIGN THINKING
Authors: Hasibuan Mentari , Hamidah Khoirunnisa , Ridha Azhari Ali
Published: September 2023

Pengalaman pengguna yang baik dalam aplikasi mobile menjadi faktor kunci dalam keberhasilan sebuah platform digital. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis User Experience (UX) aplikasi SOCO by Sociolla yang merupakan aplikasi di bidang kecantikan. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan design thinking untuk menganalisis kebutuhan pengguna dalam menggunakan aplikasi SOCO by Sociolla. Penelitian ini juga bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi fitur-fitur yang membutuhkan perbaikan ataupun peningkatan. Hasil analisis menujukkan ada beberapa masalah yang harus diperbaiki dari mulai bahasa, tata letak, kekonsistenan tampilan dan yang lainnya. Dari masalah-masalah yang ditemukan dibuatlah desain baru yang diujikan kepada reponden dan mendapatkan hasil yang baik dari perancangan ulang yang baru terhadap aplikasi SOCO by Sociolla.
PENERAPAN METODE CRISP-DM UNTUK ANALISA PENDAPATAN BERSIH BULANAN PEKERJA INFORMAL DI PROVINSI JAWA BARAT DENGAN ALGORITMA K-MEANS
Authors: Salsabila Farras , Fitrianti Ika , Umaidah Yuyun , Heryana Nono
Published: September 2023

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengenali pola pendapatan dan karakteristik pekerja informal dengan lebih baik dengan menggunakan clusterisasi Algoritma K-Means sehingga pemerintah dapat mengarahkan sumber daya dan program dengan lebih tepat sasaran. Dalam penelitian ini, Indeks Davies Bouldin (DBI) akan digunakan sebagai metode untuk mengoptimalkan jumlah cluster dalam proses pengelompokkan wilayah Kabupaten/Kota di Jawa Barat berdasarkan pendapatan bersih pekerja informal. Data yang diguanakan adalah data pendapatan dari para pekerja Informal di Jawa Barat . Pengolahan data dilakukan menggunakan tools RapidMiner dengan pemodelan clustering dan untuk metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah CRISP-DM . Hasil pengujian dan pemodelan yang telah adalah terdapat indikasi adanya perbedaan yang cukup besar dalam pendapatan bulanan bersih pekerja informal di daerah kabupaten/kota di Jawa Barat. Cluster 0 menunjukkan pendapatan rendah, Cluster 1 menunjukkan pendapatan sedang, sementara Cluster 2 menunjukkan pendapatan tinggi