bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate change from the Asia‐Pacific perspective: What an allergist needs to know and do
Authors: Zain Amanda , Yeo Inez , Wong Lydia , Shek Lynette P.
Published: August 2024

Allergic diseases such as asthma, atopic dermatitis, and food allergies are a burgeoning health challenge in the Asia‐Pacific region. Compounding this, the region has become increasingly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. The region has weathered extreme precipitation, intense heat waves, and dust storms over the recent decades. While the effects of environmental and genetic factors on allergic diseases are well understood, prevailing gaps in understanding the complex interactions between climate change and these factors remain. We aim to provide insights into the various pathways by which climate change influences allergic diseases in the Asia‐Pacific population. We outline practical steps that allergists can take to reduce the carbon footprint of their practice on both a systemic and patient‐specific level. We recommend that allergists optimize disease control to reduce the resources required for each patient's care, which contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We encourage the responsible prescription of metered dose inhalers by promoting the switch to dry powder inhalers for certain patients, at each clinician's discretion. We also recommend the utilization of virtual consultations to reduce patient travel while ensuring that evidence‐based guidelines for rational allergy management are closely adhered to. Finally, eliminating unnecessary testing and medications will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions in many areas of medical care.

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Climate change adaptation: Challenges for agricultural sustainability
Authors: Verma Krishan K. , Song Xiu‐Peng , Kumari Aradhna , Jagadesh M. , Singh Santosh Kumar , Bhatt Rajan , Singh Munna , Seth Chandra Shekhar , Li Yang‐Rui
Published: August 2024

Climate change poses a substantial threat to agricultural sustainability globally. Agriculture is a vital component of the gross domestic production of developing countries. The multifaceted impacts of climate change on agriculture, highlighting how extreme weather events such as water stress, heatwaves, erratic rainfall, storms, floods, and emerging pest infestations are disrupting agricultural productivity. The socioeconomic status of farmers is particularly vulnerable to climatic extremes with future projections indicating significant increment in ambient air temperatures and unpredictable, intense rainfall patterns. Agriculture has historically relied on the extensive use of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides, combined with advancements in irrigation and biotechnological approaches to boost productivity. It encompasses a range of practices designed to enhance the resilience of agricultural systems, improve productivity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting climate‐smart practices, farmers can better adapt to changing climatic conditions, thereby ensuring more sustainable and secure food production. Furthermore, it identifies key areas for future research, focusing on the development of innovative adaptation and mitigation strategies. These strategies are essential for minimizing the detrimental impacts of climate change on agriculture and for promoting the long‐term sustainability of food systems. This article underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and the integration of advanced technologies to address the challenges posed by climate change. By fostering a deeper understanding of these issues to inform policymakers, researchers, and practitioners about effective strategies to safeguard agricultural productivity and food security in the face of changing climate.
Punishment Moralism
Authors: MirzaeiGhazi Shervin
Published: August 2024

In this paper, I try to reconcile the vulgar (normative) definition of punishment with the positivistic (purely descriptive) definition that separates the ethics of punishment from its definition—punishment positivism. I will argue that although the vulgar definition has critical issues, this does not mean that we should stop using normative concepts in the definition of punishment. I will attempt this reconciliation by considering one of the prime arguments in favour of punishment positivism—namely, definitional stop—and show why it doesn't work. I will proceed by presenting a functional argument in favour of what I call punishment moralism: the idea that punishment should be considered as a response to perceived wrongdoing. This definition, while using normative concepts, still remains descriptive. In this way, I hope to be able to solve the problem of both views by combining their insights.
Seasonality of common respiratory viruses: Analysis of nationwide time‐series data
Authors: An Tai Joon , Lee Jangwon , Shin Myoungin , Rhee Chin Kook
Published: August 2024

Background and Objective

Understanding the seasonal behaviours of respiratory viruses is crucial for preventing infections. We evaluated the seasonality of respiratory viruses using time‐series analyses.

Methods

This study analysed prospectively collected nationwide surveillance data on eight respiratory viruses, gathered from the Korean Influenza and Respiratory Surveillance System. The data were collected on a weekly basis by 52 nationwide primary healthcare institutions between 2015 and 2019. We performed Spearman correlation analyses, similarity analyses via dynamic time warping (DTW) and seasonality analyses using seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA).

Results

The prevalence of rhinovirus (RV, 23.6%–31.4%), adenovirus (AdV, 9.2%–16.6%), human coronavirus (HCoV, 3.0%–6.6%), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV, 11.7%–20.1%), influenza virus (IFV, 11.7%–21.5%), parainfluenza virus (PIV, 9.2%–12.6%), human metapneumovirus (HMPV, 5.6%–6.9%) and human bocavirus (HBoV, 5.0%–6.4%) were derived. Most of them exhibited a high positive correlation in Spearman analyses. In DTW analyses, all virus data from 2015 to 2019, except AdV, exhibited good alignments. In SARIMA, AdV and RV did not show seasonality. Other viruses showed 12‐month seasonality. We describe the viruses as winter viruses (HCoV, RSV and IFV), spring/summer viruses (PIV, HBoV), a spring virus (HMPV) and all‐year viruses with peak incidences during school periods (RV and AdV).

Conclusion

This is the first study to comprehensively analyse the seasonal behaviours of the eight most common respiratory viruses using nationwide, prospectively collected, sentinel surveillance data.

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Effectiveness of two visual‐pedagogical methods for toothbrushing skills in autistic children: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Gharavi Matine , Salem Katayoun , Adabdokht Rojin , Ghasemi Mahmoud
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two visual pedagogy methods, video modeling and educational posters, on improving tooth‐brushing autonomy in 10–12‐year‐old children with mild autism.

Methods

Sixty‐four autistic children were randomly assigned to either the video or poster groups using the Rand function in Excel. Toothbrushing skills were divided into five stages: preparation, buccal, occlusal, lingual surfaces, and the end. These five stages comprised a total of 20 steps, with each step scored from 1 (not done at all) to 5 (done independently). The final score was calculated by averaging the scores of the five stages. The FONES method of toothbrushing was used for training. Follow‐up assessments were conducted after 1 and 3 months. The data were analyzed using SPSS V26, including t‐tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, and repeated‐measures ANOVA.

Results

After 3 months, there were significant improvements in autonomy scores for both groups, with the video group showing greater benefits (4.37 ± 0.43) compared to the poster group (4.11 ± 0.49) (p = .03), with an effect size of η2 = .07.

Conclusion

Both video and poster methods were effective in improving tooth‐brushing skills, but video modeling was associated with a higher total autonomy score.
Overactivation of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 in Canine Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Prognostic Significance
Authors: Shin Hun Kyeong , Chung Hea Ji , Kim Wan Hee
Published: August 2024

Phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (pSTAT3), which is related to anti‐apoptosis, cellular proliferation, invasion and migration of tumours, has prognostic significance in malignant tumours in humans as well as in canine melanoma. However, the significance of pSTAT3 in canine liver tissues has not yet been evaluated. This study's objective was to compare its expression in canine normal, non‐neoplastic hepatic disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues by immunohistochemical analysis. Furthermore, the association between pSTAT3 immunostaining and clinicopathological factors was investigated. Overall, 68 canine liver tissues, including 10 normal liver tissues, 30 non‐neoplastic hepatic disease tissues and 28 HCC tissues were examined, revealing distinct differences in pSTAT3 immunostaining among the groups. (p < 0.001). Additionally, high pSTAT3 immunostaining was significantly associated with increased tumour size (5 > cm) (p = 0.041), and metastasis (p = 0.046). Furthermore, Kaplan–Meier survival curve analysis revealed a correlation between high pSTAT3 immunostaining and poor disease‐free survival (p = 0.013) and overall survival (p = 0.011). These findings suggest that overactivation of STAT3 is associated with poor prognosis in canine HCC. Therefore, pSTAT3 is considered a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target for canine HCC.
Repeated apheresis donations cause important iron deficiency in male Japanese donors
Authors: Odajima Takeshi , Tsuno Nelson H. , Iwasaki Junko , Matsuzaki Koji , Ishimaru Fumihiko , Okubo Rie , Murakami Junko , Kitsukawa Kaori , Ikuta Katsuya , Muroi Kazuo , Satake Masahiro , Kino Shuichi
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

In Japan, apheresis donation of plasma is allowed to a maximum of 24 times a year, and plateletpheresis are counted as two plasmapheresis donations. Diversion of the initial blood flow is conducted for all donations, and additionally, blood remaining in apheresis machine circuit is lost. Here, we aimed to investigate on the health impact of frequent apheresis donations, as measured by the serum ferritin (sFer).

Materials and Methods

A total of 538 male apheresis donors and 538 age‐matched whole blood (WB) donors, who gave informed consent to join the study, were enrolled. sFer were compared, according to age. Another group of 19 apheresis donors were followed during four consecutive donations.

Results

About half (48%) of repeat male apheresis donors had iron deficiency (sFer < 26 ng/mL), compared with lower rates (13.9%) among male WB donors. It was evident in all age groups, except for teenagers, possibly because of the lower number of donations. Follow‐up of the 19 donors for 4 months revealed a progressive decrease in sFer.

Conclusion

Blood remaining in the apheresis machine circuit and diversion of the initial blood flow have been implicated in iron deficiency for many years. Taking the present results, the manufacturer of apheresis equipment was requested to improve it to allow rinseback of the remaining blood, which was achieved only for plateletpheresis. Until further improvement, plasmapheresis frequency was reduced to 12 times a year. Additional measures, such as oral supplementation of iron, need to be considered.
Current practices in equine minimally invasive soft tissue surgery
Authors: Hackett Eileen S. , McOnie Rebecca C. , Buote Nicole J. , Fubini Susan L.
Published: August 2024

Equine minimally invasive surgical techniques are frequently utilized in the treatment of a variety of conditions. Standing sedated endoscopic surgery is commonly selected in horses, requiring specialized facilities, anesthetic protocols, and surgeon and assistant expertise. This review examines current methods and potential strategies in equine soft tissue surgery, in which there is an emphasis on laparoscopic urogenital and gastrointestinal diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Thoracoscopy is less frequently reported in horses and may be underutilized. Optimizing procedures and outcomes in soft tissue surgery relies on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Modern advances in surgical equipment and emerging medical technologies support development in these fields. Participation in continuing education is effective in acquiring and sustaining knowledge and skills and improving clinical practice. Forums with an integrated approach could rapidly expand knowledge across species.
A Portable, Wireless and Low-cost Electroencephalogram Monitor using Raspberry Pi
Authors: Abdulaziz Al-Awadhi Khaled Abdulrahman , A. Harris Arief Ruhullah
Published: August 2024

Portable EEG devices have a great potential to become efficient computer interfaces. However, observing brain activity in real-world settings offers exciting possibilities like the support of physical health, mental well- being, and thought-controlled interaction modalities. The development of such applications is, however, strongly impeded by poor accessibility to research-grade neural data and by a lack of easy-to-use and comfortable    sensors. An integrated system design is described, that combines publicly available electronics components to form an easily replicable, versatile, EEG recording system for prolonged use and easy application development. Most of the commercial EEG monitors in the market does not have wireless connection and usually serially connected with a monitor to display the data collected. A portable, wireless, and low-cost EEG system was developed by using a commercial amplifier Open BCI ganglion and a small single-board computer Raspberry Pi. The objective of this project is to design a portable, wireless, and low-cost EEG monitor, to implement Brain Flow libraries in Raspberry pi, and to display the graphs of real-time EEG, real-time power spectral density, and real-time band power. This system can acquire EEG signals through the electrode, transmit the EEG signal through the amplifier and display the signals in real-time on a touch screen. Based on the results, a mental task was given to the subject which needs concentration, the system was able to detect the targeted band which is beta, and this was supported by a previous study. Finally, the scope of this project has been fulfilled. However, the system designed still has some limitations and has plenty of room for improvement.
INVESTIGATION ON DIMENSIONAL ACCURACY OF ADDITIVE MANUFACTURED SAMPLES
Authors: Maidin Shajahan , Rajendran Thavinnesh Kumar , Mohd Ali Latifah , Sharum Mohamad Afiq
Published: August 2024

Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is a typical 3D printing process. Some benefits of FDM-printed components are durability, mechanical property stability, and the quality of the parts. However, it has several drawbacks, such as the emergence of seamlines between layers and the creation of extra material residue on the surface of the printed object, which compromises the dimensional accuracy of the printed part. When making pieces that fit correctly, the dimensions of 3D-printed components must be accurate. This article discusses the dimensional accuracy of 3D-printed components created using an open-source FDM 3D printer. The filament material for printing the test samples is stainless steel, ABS and tough PLA. The test samples were printed three times each and examined using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM). The geometries measured and compared between the three printed sample materials are the thickness, corner radius, angle, perpendicular, hole diameter, and flatness. The result shows that the printed samples could not achieve 100% dimensional accuracy, with stainless steel having the highest accuracy ranging from 99 - 98%. The data of stainless steel were then compared side by side with Tough PLA and ABS, where the accuracy of stainless steel is similar to ABS while PLA has the lowest accuracy. The accuracy of the stainless-steel specimen was then analysed and compared to tough PLA and ABS to identify the printing accuracy of the stainless-steel specimen, which is relatively new.
A HYBRID MVO-BMO TECHNIQUE FOR PLUG-IN ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING OPTIMIZATION
Authors: Md Razali Norhasniza , Mohamad Hasmaini , Abidin Ahmad Farid , Ali Zaipatimah
Published: August 2024

The electric vehicle (EV) market is expanding rapidly around the world due to technological advancements, decreasing cost of batteries, and supportive government regulations. It is both a challenge and an opportunity for distribution utilities to manage the additional power demand from EVs. Effective and optimal EV charging scheduling strategies are essential to avoid the adverse effects of large EV penetration in the power grid system. This paper proposes an optimal plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) charging scheduling in a distribution grid system using a hybrid algorithm approach that combines a multiverse optimizer (MVO) and also a barnacle mating optimizer (BMO) termed as HMVO-BMO. The optimization model is developed with the objective to minimize the grid power loss, considering overnight home charging. Random arrival times of PEVs are considered and charging is scheduled based on available power demand on the distribution grid. The proposed methodology is demonstrated on the IEEE 33-bus system with different PEV penetration levels. Comparisons are made between three optimization algorithm approaches, namely the standard MVO and BMO, and the proposed HMVO-BMO algorithms. The simulation results demonstrated that the proposed hybrid technique can achieve better and efficient results in terms of system power loss.
NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF UNSTEADY SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION DURING THE FORMATION OF INVADOPODIA USING LEVEL SET METHOD
Authors: Yaacob Noorehan , Admon Mohd Ariff , Suzuki Takashi , Mohd Yunus Nurul Izzaty , Noor Azhuan Nur Azura
Published: August 2024

The finger-like protrusions formed by an invasive cancer cell known as invadopodia is actively observed recently because of this formation on the cancer invasion. The signal on the interface which is stimulated upon contact between epidermal growth factor receptor and ligand, is investigated to be the start of invadopodia formation. In this research, a model of invadopodia formation with signal variable is formulated in two dimensions. The plasma membrane is assumed to be free boundary. The signal is in an unsteady state. The equation of signal is represented by heat-like equation with time-dependent boundary condition. Trigonometry types of the boundary condition which are sine and cosine function are tested to identify the most suitable boundary condition represented the free boundary. The plasma membrane is considered as zero level set function. The membrane moves by the velocity of the signal inside the cell. To handle the free boundary problem, the level set method combining features of ghost method, interpolation and extrapolation method is applied to solve the model numerically. Our result shows that the free boundary is moved at different positions and seen to move inward meaning that the boundary has shrunk. Cosine function is discovered to fit the boundary conditions since the boundary solutions are stable across the time. The computation of the signal density profiles displayed highest density on the membrane.
THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CRUMB RUBBER STEEL FIBER CONCRETE (CRSFC)
Authors: Abdul Rahim Mustaqqim , Ramli Siti Nor Amanina , Salehuddin Shamshinar , Mohamad Ibrahim Norlia , Ayob Afizah , Rahim Nur Liza
Published: August 2024

Waste materials can be used in concrete as part of replacement material. Currently, 4 billion tires are abandoned in landfills, with 1 billion generated annually and 1.2 billion dumped without treatment by 2030. The number of waste tires is continually increasing, because of the growing use of transport vehicles. Therefore, effectively reusing waste tires as crumb rubber in the mix of concrete can save energy and protect the environment, while the use of steel fiber in the concrete will help enhance its properties. The aim this research to producing the steel fiber crumb rubber concrete (CRSFC) and to balance the issues of strength loss and sustainability. Crumb rubber is used as sand replacement in the mix concrete in the following proportions: 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%, while steel fiber is added in the following proportions: 0.5% by volume. Slump, compressive strength, dry density, water absorption, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and rebound hammer tests are performed on the concrete after curing. As the percentage of CRSFC increased, the slump value and dry density decreased while the water absorption increased. Steel fiber helps increase compressive strength by 33 % over normal concrete. The optimum percentage of crumb rubber in CRSFC as a sand replacement is approximately 5% to 10% by volume. In summary, incorporating crumb rubber and steel fibers into concrete can result in a more eco-friendly and resilient construction material.
BIOAUGMENTATION AS BIOREMEDIATION APPROACH FOR CONTAMINATED SOIL: A REVIEW
Authors: Esa Farah Nasyitah , Nik Him Nik Raikhan
Published: August 2024

The inevitable impacts by the emerging urbans developments towards the quality and function of soil have raised concerns for future environment consequences. Pollutants that evolved from the anthropogenic activities including heavy metals, pesticides, petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) tend to be persistent within the soil and hence, contribute to long term effects towards the environment and human’s health. Researchers discovered the success of bioaugmentation as part of bioremediation as an approach towards degrading the pollutants by employing microorganisms (i.e., bacteria or fungi) to enhance the removal of pollutants. The concept, mechanism, method, and factors affecting bioaugmentation is studied for the past years to explore the thorough process of bioaugmentation. It is claimed that bioaugmentation is directly related to the microbial activity and have three different approaches (autochthonous, allochthonous, and genetically engineering microorganisms). pH, temperature, moisture, and oxidation reduction potential are the key prospects towards bioaugmentation efficiency. The application of bioaugmentation towards each targeted pollutant are studied to certify its capability of degrading, removing, and transforming pollutants into less toxic components.
DISASTER MITIGATION FOR PEOPLE WITH CEREBRAL PALSY BASED ON BEHAVIORAL ARCHITECTURE IN RESIDENTIAL USING WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORK
Authors: Fath Nifty , Iskandaria Harfa , Saputra Moh Adinur , Fatima Jasmine
Published: August 2024

At this time, most houses for persons with disabilities are not yet equipped with a disaster mitigation system. It may be difficult for persons with disabilities to be able to save themselves when a disaster occurs. Therefore, in this study, a system for disaster mitigation, especially fires in the residence of a child with cerebral palsy, has been successfully designed. The optimal placement of the wireless sensor network is decided based on a behavioral architectural analysis using the DepthMapX-0.7.0 software. Behavioral architecture assessment begins by observing patterns of daily activities and a simulation of human movement in the house to find out the most frequent activity places used by children with cerebral palsy. Based on the test results with DepthMapX-0.7.0, it can be concluded that the optimal location of the sensor node points is in the child's bedroom, kitchen, and TV room. The designed wireless sensor network consists of three sensor nodes and a gateway node.  Data sampling is performed every 15 seconds.  If a fire is identified, the buzzer will emit a warning signal.  In addition, the child's family can monitor home conditions from the ThingSpeak.com website and Telegram.
MINIATURIZATION OF STACKED WEARABLE ANTENNA FOR 5G APPLICATIONS
Authors: Fitra M. , Adam I. , Yasin M. N. M. , Haris N. , Nawawi N. M. , Zain A. S. M.
Published: August 2024

Wearable antennas have significantly expanded the capabilities of electronic devices, as they can now be seamlessly integrated into clothing for user convenience. The advent of 5G has opened up possibilities for enhanced functionality, necessitating compact antennas with high gain for efficient data transmission. In this paper, a sub-6GHz 5G stacked wearable antenna is proposed. The choice of a rectangular patch structure was made for its simplicity and ease of fabrication. A comprehensive analysis of antenna design, progressing from a single layer to a multilayer configuration is explained. The antenna was designed using 1mm felt and Shieldit Super conductor, with a 50 Ω coaxial feed. The proposed stacked three-layer antenna, with substrate dimensions of 44 x 44 mm², achieves a gain of 2.7 dBi. Stacking the substrate and patch layer improves the antennas’ performance, especially the impedance bandwidth and gain. On top of that, the antenna dimensions were reduced to 57% while maintaining its performance. Bending tests conducted in both X- and Y-axes demonstrate that the antenna's performance remains within an acceptable range. Although the resonating frequency shifted to 3.4 GHz in 3 layers during bending in Y-axis, the gain was kept to 1.8dBi. Both measured and simulated results exhibit good consistency, with a slight shift observed in the case of the three-layer structure.
EXPLORING THE POTENTIAL OF GEOSPATIAL VIRTUAL REALITY IN FORENSIC CSI: AN OVERVIEW
Authors: Razali Ahmad Firdaus , Mohd Ariff Mohd Farid , Mohd Rashid Aiman , Ahmad Fauzi Ahmad Faiz Azizi , Othman Mohd Hazazi , Husain Mohamad Nizam , Majid Zulkepli
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a discussion on the applicability of geospatial data sources such as laser scanners and photogrammetry integrated with VR so that crime scene investigation (CSI) can be improved in data management, time consumption, and user experience. CSI is a part of forensic science where physical measurement and evidence consist of objects connecting to the case are recorded in the crime scene. Traditionally, the method of acquiring information on the crime scene is using hand sketching and 2D photography. Even 3D models are used, but the display on the screen does not support full information of the data, making the presentation of the data visually limited. Geospatial method has the advantage of 3D information that is able to digitally measure dimensions and volumetric properties of physical objects. The geospatial surveying such as laser scanning, and photogrammetry can be used to preserve the evidence by recording the physical crime scene in the digital world. The scanning world known as point clouds are essentially used to calculate the angle, distance and dimensions, area, volume, and speed of objects as well. The point clouds can be optimised into virtual reality (VR) with realistic textured details making the user experience more intuitive.
On the maximum field of linearity of linear sets
Authors: Csajbók Bence , Marino Giuseppe , Pepe Valentina
Published: August 2024

Let denote an ‐dimensional ‐vector space. For an ‐dimensional ‐subspace of , assume that for each nonzero vector . If , then we prove the existence of an integer such that the set of one‐dimensional ‐subspaces generated by nonzero vectors of is the same as the set of one‐dimensional ‐subspaces generated by nonzero vectors of . If we view as a point set of , it means that and determine the same set of directions. We prove a stronger statement when . In terms of linear sets, it means that an ‐linear set of has maximum field of linearity only if it has a point of weight one. We also present some consequences regarding the size of a linear set.
Assessing the Currency Market Integration in the SADC Region amid Global Economic Crises
Authors: Mulenga Richard , Mayondi Moses , Odongo Nicholas
Published: August 2024

This study examines the real effective exchange rate (REER) market integration among the selected Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries before, during, and after the 2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis (GFC) and the COVID-19 crisis using daily REER data from January 2002 to January 2024. Using an experimental quantitative study design and employing the Johansen cointegration, vector error correction models(VECMs) and the impulse response functions, findings indicate that the currency markets in the SADC region became less integrated during both the GFC and COVID-19 crises, as indicated by less cointegration vectors in the crises relative to pre-GFC and pre-COVID 19 periods. Findings seem to indicate that the COVID-19 shocks were relatively more intense than the GFC shocks. We recommend that the SADC region should incorporate leading indicators and crisis signalling properties in the currency markets, including but not limited to the Baltic Dry Index (BDI), as part of the strategies to hedge against future global crises.
Discursos fronterizos sobre el español y el inglés desde un espacio de formación alternativa con jóvenes rurales de Colombia
Authors: Molina Ríos Juliana Angélica , Salazar-Sierra Adriana María , Aguirre-Garzón Edgar Augusto , Ubaque-Casallas Diego
Published: August 2024

El artículo muestra los resultados de la investigación titulada Tejiendo escenarios alter-nativos de formación en inglés con jóvenes de Vista Hermosa-Meta, Colombia, desarrollada durante el segundo semestre de 2021 y primer semestre 2022. El objetivo general fue entretejer escenarios alter-nativos de formación en inglés con jóvenes de Vista Hermosa-Meta. Se busca interpelar el campo de la enseñanza del inglés para encontrar caminos alternativos de saber, ser, hacer y existir de otro modo en la periferia (Walsh, 2013). A través de una Investigación Acción Participativa, se plantea un ejercicio pedagógicamente pensable que profundice en una experiencia de enseñanza Otra, donde se entretejen saberes, lenguas, discursos y experiencias. En las conclusiones, se destaca que la co-existencia de las dos lenguas es el elemento esencial que da lugar a la creación de los discursos fronterizos donde los jóvenes lograron reconocerse de otro modo y relacionarse con los otros desde nuevos lugares de enunciación.
The regulatory functions of ESX-1 substrates, EspE and EspF, are separable from secretion
Authors: Prest Rebecca J. , Korotkov Konstantin V. , Champion Patricia A.
Published: August 2024

Pathogenic mycobacteria are a significant global health burden. The ESX-1 secretion system is essential for mycobacterial pathogenesis. The secretion of ESX-1 substrates is required for phagosomal lysis, which allows the bacteria to enter the macrophage cytoplasm, induce a Type I IFN response, and spread to new host cells. EspE and EspF are dual-functioning ESX-1 substrates. Inside the mycobacterial cell, they regulate transcription of ESX-1-associated genes. Following secretion, EspE and EspF are essential for lytic activity. The link between EspE/F secretion and regulatory function has not been investigated. We investigated the relationship between EspE and EspF using molecular genetics in
Mycobacterium marinum
, a non-tuberculous mycobacterial species that serves as an established model for ESX-1 secretion and function in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. Our data support that EspE and EspF, which require each other for secretion, directly interact. The disruption of the predicted protein-protein interaction abrogates hemolytic activity and secretion but does not impact their gene regulatory activities in the mycobacterial cell. In addition, we predict a direct protein-protein interaction between the EsxA/EsxB heterodimer and EspF. Our data support that the EspF/EsxA interaction is also required for hemolytic activity and EspE secretion. Our study sheds light on the intricate molecular mechanisms governing the interactions between ESX-1 substrates, regulatory function, and ESX-1 secretion, moving the field forward.

IMPORTANCE

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, is a historical and pervasive disease responsible for millions of deaths annually. The rise of antibiotic and treatment-resistant TB, as well as the rise of infection by non-tuberculous mycobacterial species, calls for a better understanding of pathogenic mycobacteria. The ESX-1 secreted substrates, EspE and EspF, are required for mycobacterial virulence and may be responsible for phagosomal lysis. This study focuses on the mechanism of EspE and EspF secretion from the mycobacterial cell.
CRISPR-prime editing, a versatile genetic tool to create specific mutations with a single nucleotide resolution in
Leptospira
Authors: Fernandes Luis Guilherme Virgilio , Hamond Camila , Tibbs-Cortes Bienvenido W. , Putz Ellie J. , Olsen Steven C. , Palmer Mitchell V. , Nally Jarlath E.
Published: August 2024

Leptospirosis, caused by pathogenic bacteria from the genus
Leptospira
, is a global zoonosis responsible for more than one million human cases and 60,000 deaths annually. The disease also affects many domestic animal species. Historically, genetic manipulation of
Leptospira
has been difficult to perform, resulting in limited knowledge on pathogenic mechanisms of disease and the identification of virulence factors. The application of CRISPR/Cas9 and its variations have helped fill these gaps but the generation of knockout mutants remains challenging because double-strand breaks (DSBs) inflicted by Cas9 nuclease are lethal to
Leptospira
cells. The novel CRISPR prime editing (PE) strategy is the first precise genome-editing technology that allows deletions, insertions, and base substitutions without introducing DSBs. This revolutionary technique utilizes a nickase Cas9 that cleaves a single strand of DNA, coupled with an engineered reverse transcriptase and a modified single-guide RNA (termed prime editing guide RNA) containing an extended 3′ end with the desired edits. We demonstrate the application of CRISPR-PE in both saprophytic and pathogenic
Leptospira
from multiple species and serovars by introducing deletions or insertions into target DNA with a remarkable precision of just one nucleotide. Additionally, we demonstrate the ability to genetically manipulate
Leptospira borgpetersenii
, a prevalent pathogenic species of humans, domestic cattle, and wildlife animals. Rapid plasmid loss by mutated strains in liquid culture allows for the generation of knockout strains without selective markers, which can be readily used to elucidate virulence factors and develop optimized bacterin and/or live vaccines against leptospirosis.

IMPORTANCE

Leptospirosis is a geographically widespread bacterial zoonosis. Genetic manipulation of pathogenic
Leptospira
spp. has been laborious and difficult to perform, limiting our ability to understand how leptospires cause disease. The application of the CRISPR/Cas9 system to
Leptospira
enhanced our ability to generate knockdown and knockout mutants; however, the latter remains challenging. Here, we demonstrate the application of the CRISPR prime editing technique in
Leptospira
, allowing the generation of knockout mutants in several pathogenic species, with mutations comprising just a single nucleotide resolution. Notably, we generated a mutant in the
Leptospira borgpetersenii
background, a prevalent pathogenic species of humans and cattle. Our application of this method opens new avenues for studying pathogenic mechanisms of
Leptospira
and the identification of virulence factors across multiple species. These methods can also be used to facilitate the generation of marker-less knockout strains for updated and improved bacterin and/or live vaccines.
Cellulose binding and the timing of expression influence protein targeting to the double-layered cyst wall of
Acanthamoeba
Authors: Kanakapura Sundararaj Bharath , Goyal Manish , Samuelson John
Published: August 2024

The cyst wall of the eye pathogen
Acanthamoeba castellanii
contains cellulose and has ectocyst and endocyst layers connected by conical ostioles. Cyst walls contain families of lectins that localize to the ectocyst layer (Jonah) or the endocyst layer and ostioles (Luke and Leo). How lectins and an abundant laccase bind cellulose and why proteins go to locations in the wall are not known and are the focus of the studies here. Structural predictions identified β-jelly-roll folds (BJRFs) of Luke and sets of four disulfide knots (4DKs) of Leo, each of which contains linear arrays of aromatic amino acids, also present in carbohydrate-binding modules of bacterial and plant endocellulases. Ala mutations showed that these aromatics are necessary for cellulose binding and proper localization of Luke and Leo in the
Acanthamoeba
cyst wall. BJRFs of Luke, 4DKs of Leo, a single β-helical fold (BHF) of Jonah, and a copper oxidase domain of the laccase each bind to glycopolymers in both layers of deproteinated cyst walls. Promoter swaps showed that ectocyst localization does not just correlate with but is caused by early encystation-specific expression, while localization in the endocyst layer and ostioles is caused by later expression. Evolutionary studies showed distinct modes of assembly of duplicated domains in Luke, Leo, and Jonah lectins and suggested Jonah BHFs originated from bacteria, Luke BJRFs share common ancestry with slime molds, while 4DKs of Leo are unique to
Acanthamoeba
.

IMPORTANCE

Acanthamoebae
is the only human parasite with cellulose in its cyst wall and conical ostioles that connect its inner and outer layers. Cyst walls are important virulence factors because they make
Acanthamoebae
resistant to surface disinfectants, hand sanitizers, contact lens sterilizers, and antibiotics applied to the eye. The goal here was to understand better how proteins are targeted to specific locations in the cyst wall. To this end, we identified three new proteins in the outer layer of the cyst wall, which may be targets for diagnostic antibodies in corneal scrapings. We used structural predictions and mutated proteins to show linear arrays of aromatic amino acids of two unrelated wall proteins are necessary for binding cellulose and proper wall localization. We showed early expression during encystation causes proteins to localize to the outer layer, while later expression causes proteins to localize to the inner layer and the ostioles.
13C-enriched carbonate precipitates reveal intense methanogenic oil degradation in the upper Wuerhe Formation, Northwest China
Authors: Liu Wendong , Hu Wenxuan , Zhang Wenjie , Wang Xiaolin , Cao Jian , Luo Xianglong , An Shichao , Li Wenwen , Zhi Dongming , Li Weiqiang
Published: August 2024

Microbial methanogenesis from crude oil is an important source of CH4 for gas reservoirs and atmospheric greenhouse gases. However, its petrological records have not been found in natural environments, and the geological conditions under which it may occur remain unclear. Here, we provide the first petrological evidence of Fe(III)-mediated methanogenic hydrocarbon degradation in a deep subsurface oil reservoir in Northwest China. The major findings are as follows: (1) highly positive δ13C values (up to +16‰) of secondary calcite attributed to methanogenesis; (2) paragenetic relation of high-δ13C calcite to biodegraded hydrocarbon; and (3) remarkably high FeO contents (up to 8 wt%) and heavy δ56Fe ratios (up to +0.52‰) in calcite, indicative of microbial Fe(III) reduction. Our study shows that methanogenic hydrocarbon degradation can occur in Fe(III)-reducing environments. This process transformed hydrocarbons into CO2 and CH4, where the former mostly precipitated as Fe-rich calcite (the carbon sink), while the latter, representing an estimated ~1968 Tg, might have escaped into the overburden and atmosphere from the Permian reservoir during the Late Triassic to Early Jurassic, which may have acted as an important CH4 source in changing global climate in the geological past.
Assessing the 3D resolution of refocused correlation plenoptic images using a general-purpose image quality estimator
Authors: Massaro Gianlorenzo
Published: August 2024

Correlation plenoptic imaging (CPI) is emerging as a promising approach to light-field imaging (LFI), a technique enabling simultaneous measurement of light intensity distribution and propagation direction from a scene. LFI allows single-shot 3D sampling, offering fast 3D reconstruction for a wide range of applications. However, the array of micro-lenses typically used in LFI to obtain 3D information limits image resolution, which rapidly declines with enhanced volumetric reconstruction capabilities. CPI addresses this limitation by decoupling the measurement of the light field on two photodetectors with spatial resolution, eliminating the need for micro-lenses. 3D information is encoded in a four-dimensional correlation function, which is decoded in post-processing to reconstruct images without the resolution loss seen in conventional LFI. This paper evaluates the tomographic performance of CPI, demonstrating that the refocusing reconstruction method provides axial sectioning capabilities comparable to conventional imaging systems. A general-purpose analytical approach based on image fidelity is proposed to quantitatively study axial and lateral resolution. The analysis fully characterizes the volumetric resolution of any CPI architecture, offering a comprehensive evaluation of its imaging performance.
Pandemic Fallout: Analyzing the Impact of COVID-19 on Taiwan’s Hotel Stocks
Authors: Fraz Ahmad , Hassan Arshad , Ali Shoaib , Pan Vincent Shin-Hung
Published: August 2024

This study attempts to evaluate Taiwanese hotel stock returns in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. This study uses data from fifteen hotel stocks from the Taiwan Capitalization Weighted Stock Index (TAIEX) and implements a t-test and event study methodology. We create the event window from December 31, 2018 to March 31, 2020, which includes the estimation period from December 31, 2018 to December 31, 2019, the pre-announcement period from January 1, 2020 to January 31, 2020 and the post-announcement period from February 1, 2020 to March 31, 2020. In January 2020, the average daily returns exhibited a distinct pattern, as all stocks witnessed negative returns following the announcement of the pandemic alert. The results indicate that hotel stocks show a negative and significant difference in the mean. Moreover, the results of the event study indicate a persistent negative impact on the selected stock. It is therefore important for policymakers to formulate pandemic outbreak strategies in advance that may help investors devise diversification strategies.
Language Models for Online Depression Detection: A Review and Benchmark Analysis on Remote Interviews
Authors: Qin Ruiyang , Cook Ryan , Yang Kai , Abbasi Ahmed , Dobolyi David , Seyedi Salman , Griner Emily , Kwon Hyeokhyen , Cotes Robert , Jiang Zifan , Clifford Gari
Published: August 2024

The use of machine learning (ML) to detect depression in online settings has emerged as an important health and wellness use case. In particular, the use of deep learning methods for depression detection from textual content posted on social media has garnered considerable attention. Conversely, there has been relatively limited evaluation of depression detection in clinical environments involving text generated from remote interviews. In this research, we review state-of-the-art feature-based ML, deep learning, and large language models for depression detection. We use a multi-dimensional analysis framework to benchmark various language models on a novel testbed comprising speech-to-text transcriptions of remote interviews. Our framework considers the impact of different transcription types and interview segments on depression detection performance. Finally, we summarize the key trends and takeaways from the review and benchmark evaluation and provide suggestions to guide the design of future detection methods.
How Threat Mobilizes the Resurgence and Persistence of US White Supremacist Activism: The 1980s to the Present
Authors: Simi Pete , Futrell Robert , Burston Adam
Published: August 2024

Despite a centuries-long history of violent mobilization, white supremacist activism (WSA) has received relatively little sociological attention outside a small, specialized subfield. Disciplinary interest began to change after Trump's 2016 election; the 2017 violent attack in Charlottesville, Virginia; and the January 6, 2021, insurrection. In recognition, this review article focuses on what has been learned about contemporary WSA since the 1980s. We categorize studies by their unit of analysis—individual or micro, meso, and macro levels—to highlight analytic commonalities and distinctions and to underscore the central role that threat plays in the ebb and flow of WSA. As part of our discussion, we also point to unresolved and understudied issues. We conclude by identifying issues that future research should address.
Functionalization Process for Commercial Viability: Oral Leukoplakia Detection Using IL-6 Biomarker
Authors: Wan Hsiao-Hsuan , Zhu Haochen , Chiang Chao-Ching , Xia Xinyi , Li Jian-Sian , Ren Fan , Tsai Cheng-Tse , Liao Yu-Te , Chou Tai-Cheng , Neal Dan , Katz Joseph , Esquivel-Upshaw Josephine F.
Published: August 2024

Oral leukoplakia (OL) or white patched in the oral cavity poses a diagnostic challenge in oral health due to its white patches on the oral mucosa, affecting 1%-2% of the population, predominantly those over 40 years old. Despite being often benign, OL often precedes potentially malignant disorders and oral cancer, necessitating early detection and intervention. The search for novel biomarkers has intensified, with interleukin-6 (IL-6) emerging as a promising candidate. IL-6 detection levels in saliva offer a non-invasive approach, aiding an accurate risk assessment and treatment planning. Here, we introduce an IL-6-based biosensor for rapid concentration detection. A novel, hour-long functionalization method streamlines mass production, maintaining a low detection limit down to 10−15 g ml−1, which is three order lower than current commercial ELISA kits, with a sensitivity around 18/dec. Utilizing a specially designed printed circuit board with double pulse technology ensures precise concentration results, with human sample tests confirming the biosensor’s efficacy in real-world applications. This innovation represents a significant advancement in early OL detection, enabling timely intervention to prevent its progression to more severe forms of oral cancer.
Synthesis and Characterization of Coenzyme Q10 onto Nanoporous Calcium Silicate-Based Systems for Wound Healing
Authors: Ismail Heba Abdel Hafeez , El-Setouhy Doaa Ahmed , Habib Basant A. , Abdelhakeem Eman , El Nahrawy Amany M.
Published: August 2024

This study explores the microstructure, spectroscopic, and bonding arrangements within bioactive calcium silicate and calcium magnesium silicate systems loaded with different values (1–2.5 wt%) Coenzyme (CoQ10) ratios, synthesized using sol-gel processes. The investigation utilizes X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to analyze the samples. The study explores the assignment of FTIR bonds, examining changes in the silicate-based bonds environment under the effect of the CoQ10 ratio. The observed frequency shifts and intensity variations in FTIR bonds, linked with the bioactive silicate composition, are attributed to a reduction in local symmetry resulting from introducing the calcium and magnesium oxides and CoQ10 to the silica network. The XRD and FTIR results contribute valuable insights into the structural role of silicate-based materials loaded with CoQ10, thereby enhancing our understanding of the CoQ10 release process. Approval of the CoQ10 drug loading in both calcium silicate and calcium magnesium silicate nanosystems was recognized by shifts in FTIR bands, changes in particle distribution, and the valuation of drug release activity showed by the bioactive two calcium silicate-based nanoparticles. Additionally, wound healing studies revealed the biocompatibility and wound healing response of calcium magnesium silicate nanoparticles.