bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Research Trends and Future Directions for Buckwheat as a Smart Crop: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis
Authors: Gao Yongbin , Hou Hanghang , Cang Quzhen , Sangdan Zhuoma , Zhao Guan , Yuan Yuhao , Feng Baili
Published: December 2024

Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) originates from Central Asia and is widely distributed around the world. It is recognized as a versatile food crop due to its nutritional richness. Conducting a systematic analysis of the literature on buckwheat research can help scientific researchers achieve a better understanding of the current state, hotspots, and trends in this field, thereby promoting the sustainable development of buckwheat. The study retrieved a total of 4512 articles related to buckwheat from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), involving 104 countries (regions), 3220 institutions, and 12,840 authors. The number of research papers on buckwheat is gradually increasing. China, Japan, Poland, the United States, and South Korea were the top five countries in terms of publication volume in this field. Among the top 10 institutions in terms of publication volume, Chinese institutions account for 60%. Northwest A & F University held a leading position in the number of papers published and cited. Research on buckwheat shows that both domestic and international research institutions tend to collaborate more with institutions within their own countries. A comprehensive analysis of journals with a high number of publications and citations in buckwheat research indicated that studies primarily focus on its use as food and its active substances. Analysis of the authors and cited authors indicated that Wu Qi and Zhu F, among others, have high reputations and significant influence in this field. Reference analysis has determined that early research primarily focused on buckwheat as a pseudo-cereal food; mid-term research mainly concentrated on its active substances and cultivation; later research became more comprehensive, focusing on its potential in food, biotechnology, and medical health, which gradually emerged as trends and hot topics. Keyword analysis indicates that buckwheat flour, antioxidant activity, protective biological control, and buckwheat husk are current research hotspots. This study systematically summarizes the current status of research in the field, identifies research hotspots and trends, and provides a reference for future investigations into buckwheat.
Healthcare Financing in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Nair Kesavan Sreekantan , Mughal Yasir Hayat , Albejaidi Fahad , Alharbi Ali H.
Published: December 2024

Saudi Vision 2030 is a game-changer for all aspects of the economy, including healthcare. This article provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare financing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). It identifies key healthcare financing challenges that must be addressed to achieve the initiative’s envisioned health system goals. The review also examines and demonstrates how healthcare funds in the KSA are allocated among different healthcare services, to offer a perspective on resource use efficiency at various healthcare levels. This research used a mixed-method design which includes a literature review and secondary data analysis. A literature review was conducted aligned with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. The secondary data were gathered from the reports and websites of government agencies, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations. Despite implementing significant reforms in its healthcare system, the share of private healthcare expenditure in total healthcare spending has seen only marginal growth. The current healthcare financing system appears insufficient to adequately support the chronically ill and the poor. There is a significant imbalance in the allocation of government budgets between hospitals and primary care, with four-fifths of financial resources directed towards hospital services. The Ministry of Health’s budget allocation prioritizes personnel compensation, potentially reducing the available budget for medicines and other essential healthcare supplies. Ongoing reforms in the health sector, including privatization, public–private partnership initiatives, and the government’s commitment to developing a robust primary healthcare network, are expected to play a significant role in controlling rapidly increasing public healthcare expenditures in Saudi Arabia.
Effects of Exogenous Organic Matter on Soil Nutrient Dynamics and Its Role in Replacing Chemical Fertilizers for Vegetable Yield and Quality
Authors: Wang Juan , Li Xinyue , Chen Anquan , Li Yan , Xue Mengyun , Feng Shaoyuan
Published: December 2024

Searching for a low-cost soil amendment that can reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers while maintaining crop yields is a vital issue to sustainable agricultural development. In this study, bio-organic matter derived from harmless disposal of livestock and poultry carcasses was used to discuss its potential for substitute chemical fertilizer. An incubation experiment was conducted by incorporating bio-organic matter into the soil at the rate of 0% (CK), 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6% and 7% (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7) of soil mass to investigate the effects of bio-organic matter on soil physical properties and the nutrient release dynamics. A pot experiment was conducted with three treatments: 150 mg·kg−1 nitrogen from compound fertilizer (CK), 150 mg·kg−1 nitrogen from bio-organic matter (B1) and 300 mg·kg−1 nitrogen from bio-organic matter (B2), to evaluate the potential of bio-organic matter as a substitute for chemical fertilizers in influencing the yield and quality of Chinese cabbage (Brassica chinensis L.). Results showed that in the incubation experiment, bio-organic matter addition reduced soil bulk density of 1.5% to 8.9% and increased soil porosity by ranging from 1.5% to 10.9%. The soil physical properties were significantly improved when addition rates ≥ 4% (by soil mass). The interaction effects of addition rate and incubation time had a significant effect on soil nutrients. In the pot experiment, substitution of chemical fertilizer with bio-organic matter did not reduce the yield, and the increasing application rate of bio-organic matter led to significantly higher soluble protein, soluble sugar and total phenol content of vegetables. Additionally, nitrite content in the vegetables was slightly lower with bio-organic matter compared to that under CK. It is concluded that bio-organic matter derived from the harmless disposal of livestock and poultry carcasses is feasible; it has great potential to partially or entirely replace chemical fertilizers, thereby contributing to realizing chemical fertilizer reduction.
Comparative Genomics of Different Lifestyle Fungi in Helotiales (Leotiomycetes) Reveals Temperature and Ecosystem Adaptations
Authors: Rissi Daniel Vasconcelos , Ijaz Maham , Baschien Christiane
Published: December 2024

Helotiales, a diverse fungal order within Leotiomycetes (Ascomycota), comprises over 6000 species occupying varied ecological niches, from plant pathogens to saprobes and symbionts. Despite their importance, their genetic adaptations to temperature and environmental conditions are understudied. This study investigates temperature adaptations in infection genes and substrate degradation genes through a comparative genomics analysis of 129 Helotiales species, using the newly sequenced genomes of Gyoerffyella rotula and Anguillospora crassa. Key gene families such as cytochrome P450 enzymes, virulence factors, effector proteins, and carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) were analyzed to understand their roles in temperature and lifestyle adaptations, uncovering possible alternative lifestyle mechanisms. Our findings reveal that Helotiales fungi possess genes associated with nutrient acquisition, pathogenicity, and symbiotic relationships strongly adapted to cold environments that might be impacted by global warming. On the other hand, some species demonstrate potential for adaptation to warmer climates, suggesting increased activity in response to global warming. This study reveals the adaptive mechanisms enabling Helotiales fungi to thrive in both cold and warm environments. These findings provide valuable insights into their ecological success and evolutionary resilience, which may facilitate their ability to transition between pathogenic, symbiotic, and saprobic phases in response to changing environmental conditions.
New Ground in Antifungal Discovery and Therapy for Invasive Fungal Infections: Innovations, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Niño-Vega Gustavo A. , Padró-Villegas Leonardo , López-Romero Everardo
Published: December 2024

This review explores current advancements and challenges in antifungal therapies amid rising fungal infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients. We detail the limitations of existing antifungal classes—azoles, echinocandins, polyenes, and flucytosine—in managing systemic infections and the urgent need for alternative solutions. With the increasing incidence of resistance pathogens, such as Candida auris and Aspergillus fumigatus, we assess emerging antifungal agents, including Ibrexafungerp, T-2307, and N′-Phenylhydrazides, which target diverse fungal cell mechanisms. Innovations, such as nanoparticles, drug repurposing, and natural products, are also evaluated for their potential to improve efficacy and reduce resistance. We emphasize the importance of novel approaches to address the growing threat posed by fungal infections, particularly for patients with limited treatment options. Finally, we briefly examine the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the development of new antifungal treatments, diagnoses, and resistance prediction, which provides powerful tools in the fight against fungal pathogens. Overall, we highlight the pressing need for continued research to advance antifungal treatments and improve outcomes for high-risk populations.
Characterisation of Itersonilia spp. from Parsnip and Other Hosts
Authors: Chappell Lauren H. K. , Barker Guy C. , Clarkson John P.
Published: December 2024

Parsnips (Pastinaca sativa) are a speciality UK crop with an economic value of at least 31M GBP annually. Currently, the major constraints to production are losses associated with root canker disease due to a range of fungal pathogens, among which Itersonilia pastinacae is of most concern to growers. With limited research conducted on this species, this work aimed to provide a much-needed characterisation of isolates from across the UK, continental Europe, and New Zealand. Previously, up to four separate Itersonilia species have been proposed based on the formation of chlamydospores and host specificity: I. pastinacae, I. perplexans, I. pyriformans, and I. pannonica. However, Itersonilia spp. isolates principally from parsnip, but also from a range of other hosts, which were found to infect both parsnip roots and leaves in pathogenicity tests. In growth rate assays, isolates were found to grow at temperatures of 0–25 °C and produce both chlamydospores and ballistospores across the same range of temperatures, although chlamydospore production was found to decrease as temperature increased. Following whole genome sequencing, specific primers were designed for the molecular characterisation of the isolates using six housekeeping genes and three highly variable functional genes. Phylogenetic analysis separated isolates into two and six clades, respectively, but the grouping was not associated with hosts or locations. Based on the results of this research, there was no evidence to support more than a single species of Itersonilia among the isolates studied.
Assessing the Safety and Efficacy of Self-Expanding Metallic Y Stents in a Community Medicine Setting
Authors: Smith Daniel Jacob , Vo Russell , Lachowsky Parker , Davis Ann , Puri Isha , Guda Sai Karan Vamsi
Published: December 2024

Self-Expanding Metallic (SEM) Y stents are a newer form of stent that is gaining popularity outside the USA, but still has limited data, especially in a community medicine setting. This study analyzed efficacy and complication rates in 14 patients who had a SEM Y stent placed between August 2022 and June 2024 at Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas for either central airway obstruction (CAO) or fistulae. Of the 14 patients, 11 were requiring supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation prior to stent placement. Post-stenting 42.9% had decreased oxygen requirements, 21.4% unchanged, 14.3% increased, and 21.4% remained on room air. Complications included mucus plugging (42.9%), infection (35.7%), and granulation tissue (14.3%). There was no statistically significant correlation between gender/age and complications (p = 0.879/0.490, respectively). Complication rates were similar when compared to silicone Y stents based on literature review. In conclusion, SEM Y stents are a safe and effective alternative stent intended for palliative treatment with similar success and complications that can be easily and effectively implemented in a community hospital, with the added benefit of being able to be placed with flexible bronchoscopy.
Kinematic Analysis of a Cam-Follower-Type Transplanting Mechanism for a 1.54 kW Biodegradable Potted Cabbage Transplanter
Authors: Ali Md Razob , Reza Md Nasim , Samsuzzaman  , Habineza Eliezel , Haque Md Asrakul , Kang Beom-Sun , Chung Sun-Ok
Published: December 2024

Widespread use of plastic seedling pots has been attributed to their light weight and durable characteristics. However, these pots have limitations in facilitating efficient root establishment. Recent studies indicate that biodegradable seedling pots not only enhance seedling resilience but are also environmentally sustainable through natural decomposition. This study presents a kinematic analysis of a cabbage transplanting mechanism specifically under development for biodegradable seedling pots, focusing on position, velocity, acceleration, and power. The optimization of link combinations within the transplanting mechanism was analyzed to enhance the transplantation process, focusing on achieving precise depth and spacing for potted seedlings. A kinematic model of the mechanism was developed and simulated using commercial mechanical design and simulation software, followed by validation through performance tests. The proposed transplanter comprised a four-bar-linkage mechanism consisting of a driving link, a driven link, a connecting link, and a guide bar. Simulation trials were conducted by varying the main arm link length while keeping machine forward speed and mechanism driving speed fixed. Results indicated that the optimal mechanism parameters included a driving link of 50 mm, a connecting arm of 120 mm, a guide bar of 120 mm, and an end-effector link of 220 mm. A dibbling hopper length of 153 mm was identified as the most effective for operation. With these recommended link lengths, validated velocities of the end hopper in the ‘X’ and ‘Y’ directions were 284 mm/s and 1379 mm/s, respectively, while corresponding accelerations were measured at 1241 mm/s2 and 8664 mm/s2. The driving power requirement was calculated to be 17.4 W. These findings suggest that the developed mechanism provides effective planting performance, evidenced by a high degree of seedling uprightness and minimal soil disturbance. This study supports the use of biodegradable pots in mechanized transplanting as a viable alternative to conventional plastic pots, with potential benefits for both agricultural efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Regression of Likelihood Probability for Time-Varying MIMO Systems with One-Bit ADCs
Authors: Kim Tae-Kyoung , Min Moonsik
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a regression-based approach for calculating the likelihood probability in time-varying multi-input multi-output (MIMO) systems using one-bit analog-to-digital converters. These time-varying MIMO systems often face performance challenges because of the difficulty in tracking changes in the likelihood probability. To address this challenge, the proposed method leverages channel statistics and decoded outputs to refine the likelihood. An optimization problem is then formulated to minimize the mean-squared error between the true and refined likelihood probabilities. A linear regression approach is derived to solve this problem, and a regularization technique is applied to further optimize the calculation. The simulation results indicate that the proposed method improves reliability by effectively tracking temporal variations in the likelihood probability and outperforms conventional methods in terms of performance.
Correction: Alshehri, N.; Guediri, M. Projective Vector Fields on Semi-Riemannian Manifolds. Mathematics 2024, 12, 2914
Authors: Alshehri Norah , Guediri Mohammed
Published: December 2024

In our recent paper [1], we stated in Theorem 10 that on an n-dimensional semi-Riemannian manifold (N,h) with n≥2, if P is a projective vector field that is also conformal, satisfying £Ph=2ψh, and the vector field ζ, dual to dψ, maintains a consistent causal character, then either P is homothetic or ζ is light-like [...]
Faber Polynomial Coefficient Estimates of m-Fold Symmetric Bi-Univalent Functions with Bounded Boundary Rotation
Authors: Murugan Anandan , Sivasubramanian Srikandan , Sharma Prathviraj , Murugusundaramoorthy Gangadharan
Published: December 2024

In the current article, we introduce several new subclasses of m-fold symmetric analytic and bi-univalent functions associated with bounded boundary and bounded radius rotation within the open unit disk D. Utilizing the Faber polynomial expansion, we derive upper bounds for the coefficients |bmk+1| and establish initial coefficient bounds for |bm+1| and |b2m+1|. Additionally, we explore the Fekete–Szegö inequalities applicable to the functions that fall within these newly defined subclasses.
Reduced Forgetfulness in Continual Learning for Named Entity Recognition Through Confident Soft-Label Imitation
Authors: Zhang Huan , Zhou Long , Gu Miaomiao
Published: December 2024

Continual Learning for Named Entity Recognition (CL-NER) is a crucial task in recognizing emerging concepts when constructing real-world natural language processing applications. It involves sequentially updating an existing NER model with new entity types while retaining previously learned information. However, current CL methods are struggling with a major challenge called catastrophic forgetting. Owing to the semantic shift of the non-entity type, the issue is further intensified in NER. Most existing CL-NER methods rely on knowledge distillation through the output probabilities of previously learned entities, resulting in excessive stability (recognition of old entities) at the expense of plasticity (recognition of new entities). Some recent works further extend these methods by improving the distinction between old entities and non-entity types. Although these methods result in overall performance improvements, the preserved knowledge does not necessarily ensure the retention of task-related information for the oldest entities, which can lead to significant performance drops. To address this issue while maintaining overall performance, we propose a method called Confident Soft-Label Imitation (ConSOLI) for continual learning in NER. Inspired by methods that balance stability and plasticity, ConSOLI incorporates a soft-label distillation process and confident soft-label imitation learning. The former helps to gather the task-related knowledge in the old model and the latter further preserves the knowledge from diluting in the step-wise continual learning process. Moreover, ConSOLI demonstrates significant improvements in recognizing the oldest entity types, achieving Micro-F1 and Macro-F1 scores of up to 8.72 and 9.72, respectively, thus addressing the challenge of catastrophic forgetting in CL-NER.
Resistant Rhodococcus for Biodegradation of Diesel Fuel at High Concentration and Low Temperature
Authors: Ivshina Irina , Kuyukina Maria , Krivoruchko Anastasiia , Elkin Andrey , Peshkur Tatyana , Cunningham Colin J.
Published: December 2024

The resistance of 16 Rhodococcus strains to diesel fuel was studied. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of diesel fuel against Rhodococcus were 4.0–64.0 vol. % and 0.5–16.0 vol. % after 7 days of incubation in Luria–Bertani broth and a mineral “Rhodococcus-surfactant” medium, respectively. The three most resistant strains (R. ruber IEGM 231, IEGM 442 and Rhodococcus sp. IEGM 1276) capable of overcoming the toxicity of diesel fuel at a high (8.0 vol. %) concentration and at a low (4 °C) temperature were selected. Respiration activities, growth kinetics, and changes in the diesel fuel composition during the biodegradation process were elucidated using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry, respirometry, and Bradford analysis. Growth conditions were optimised for the improved biodegradation of diesel fuel by Rhodococcus cells using multifactor analysis. They included the simultaneous addition of 1.3 g·L−1 of granular sugar and 0.25 g·L−1 of yeast extract. The twofold stimulation of the biodegradation of individual hydrocarbons in diesel fuel (n-pentadecane, n-hexadecane and n-heptadecane) was demonstrated when glycolipid Rhodococcus-biosurfactants were added at a concentration of 1.4 g·L−1. A total removal of 71–91% of diesel fuel was achieved in this work.
Tunnel Infection and Peritonitis Induced by Staphylococcus aureus Due to Decubitus Change of the Anterior Abdominal Wall in a Patient on Peritoneal Dialysis: Case Report
Authors: Baralić Marko , Bontić Ana , Pavlović Jelena , Karadžić-Ristanović Vidna , Gajić Selena , Jevtić Jovan , Popović Pavle , Petrović Kristina , Hadži-Tanović Lara , Kezić Aleksandra
Published: December 2024

The occurrence of anterior abdominal wall ulcer at the site of the peritoneal catheter (PC) is one of the rarest complications of peritoneal dialysis (PD). When present, it is mainly caused by staphylococci which respond well to vancomycin therapy. Despite well-conducted therapy, there is a tendency to relapse and induce peritonitis, which makes it necessary to remove the PC and change the dialysis model of treatment and/or re-insert the catheter at another place to preserve PD as a treatment method. In the present study, we discuss a case of a 53-year-old patient with end-stage kidney disease treated with PD and with decubitus changes at the PC exit site; the change occurred due to migration of the catheter middle part by protruding from the abdominal cavity to the skin, thus allowing ulcer appearance. Although the PC site was treated with antibiotics, as advised by the surgeon, the patient was finally transferred to hemodialysis as the repositioning of the catheter was not performed. This leads to the conclusion that the antibiotic treatment and catheter repositioning are mandatory to preserve peritoneal dialysis as an end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) treatment model.
Depression Treatment: Is There a Role for Botulinum Toxin Type A?
Authors: Rodríguez-Cerdeira Carmen , Eckhardt Westley
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to determine whether botulinum toxin type A injected into the muscles of the upper third of the face has antidepressant effects in patients diagnosed with depression. Studies seeking a relationship between botulinum toxin type A and its antidepressant effects were considered in this review. All studies concluded that the facial expression muscles present positive feedback to the brain and enhance mood states. Botulinum toxin when applied to the corrugator and procerus muscles has an antidepressant effect.
Nanoarchitectonics for Advancing Bone Graft Technology: Integration of Silver Nanoparticles Against Bacteria and Fungi
Authors: Dantas Leticia Ramos , Witt Maria Alice , Carneiro Everdan , Tuon Felipe Francisco
Published: December 2024

Silver nanoparticles have garnered significant attention for their antimicrobial applications. The aim of this study was to develop and characterize a silver nanoparticle-enhanced bone graft and assess its antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities. Bone granules from bovine cancellous femur were impregnated with silver nanoparticles (50 nm). The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity was tested against various pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Enterococcus faecalis, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Escherichia coli. Biocompatibility and resorption were evaluated in a mouse calvaria model. All the tested pathogens showed susceptibility to silver nanoparticles, with minimal inhibitory concentrations ranging from 0.25 to 4 mg/L. The silver nanoparticle scaffolds demonstrated a significant reduction in biofilm formation across all microorganisms. The graft exhibited a biocompatibility comparable to that of autologous bone, with reduced resorption rates. Additionally, the presence of nanoparticles did not impact radiolucency, and cytotoxicity remained minimal. Bone grafts impregnated with silver nanoparticles effectively reduce biofilm formation, suggesting their potential as a strategic material for various implant applications.
Natural Products as Modulators of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Signaling in Atopic Dermatitis Management
Authors: Lee Jangho , Choi Hyo-Kyoung , Shin Hee Soon , Kim Gun-Dong
Published: December 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by immune dysregulation, skin barrier dysfunction, and a significant patient burden. Recent studies have highlighted the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) as a promising therapeutic target for AD management because of its pivotal role in modulating immune responses and maintaining skin barrier integrity. The dysfunction of the AhR pathway has been linked to AD pathogenesis, emphasizing the need for therapies that can restore its regulatory functions. Natural products have emerged as potential modulators of the AhR and are effective and safe alternatives to conventional treatments. Compounds such as curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, and microbial metabolites have demonstrated the ability to activate AhR, reduce inflammation, and promote skin barrier function. These natural agents have fewer side effects and enhance patient compliance compared with conventional therapies, making them attractive candidates for long-term AD management. The integration of natural products targeting the AhR pathway provides a multifaceted approach that alleviates symptoms, addresses underlying disease mechanisms, and promotes sustainable improvements in skin health. This review highlights the therapeutic potential of natural AhR modulators and their potential roles in enhancing patient outcomes through novel integrative treatment strategies.
Molybdenum-Catalyzed (E)-Selective Anti-Markovnikov Hydrosilylation of Alkynes
Authors: Ye Feihua , Huang Zhaoyang , Li Jiahao , Wang Qiumin , Wu Lihuan , Li Xiang
Published: December 2024

Herein, we report the first example of molybdenum-catalyzed (E)-Selective anti-Markovnikov hydrosilylation of alkynes. The reaction operates effectively with the utilization of minute amounts of the inexpensive, bench-stable pre-catalyst and ligand under mild conditions. Moreover, this molybdenum-catalyzed hydrosilylation process features the advantages of simple operation, excellent selectivity, and broad functional groups tolerance.
Effect of Diet on HDL in Obesity
Authors: Bacchetti Tiziana , Morresi Camilla , Simonetti Oriana , Ferretti Gianna
Published: December 2024

Alterations of plasma lipoprotein levels and oxidative stress are frequently observed in obese patients, including low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and alterations of HDL composition. Dysfunctional HDL with lower antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have also been demonstrated in obesity. There is increasing evidence that white adipose tissue (WAT) participates in several metabolic activities and modulates HDL-C levels and function. In obese subjects, the changes in morphology and function of adipose tissue lead to impaired regulatory function and are associated with a state of low-grade chronic inflammation, with increased release of pro-inflammatory adipokines and cytokines. These alterations may affect HDL metabolism and functions; thus, adipose tissue is considered a potential target for the prevention and treatment of obesity. A cornerstone of obesity prevention and therapy is lifestyle modification through dietary changes, which is reflected in the modulation of plasma lipoprotein metabolism. Some dietary components and metabolites directly affect the composition and structure of HDL and modulate its anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective properties. The aims of the review are to summarize the crosstalk between adipocytes and HDL dysfunction in human obesity and to highlight recent discoveries on beneficial dietary patterns as well as nutritional components on inflammation and HDL function in human obesity.
A Novel Pot-Economy Approach to the Synthesis of Triantennary GalNAc-Oligonucleotide
Authors: Gusev Artem Evgenievich , Ivanov Vladimir Nikolaevich , Dmitriev Nikolai Andreevich , Kholstov Aleksandr Viktorovich , Vasilichin Vladislav Aleksandrovich , Kofiadi Ilya Andreevich , Khaitov Musa Rakhimovich
Published: December 2024

N-Acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) is an efficient and multifunctional delivery tool in the development and synthesis of chemically modified oligonucleotide therapeutics (conjugates). Such therapeutics demonstrate improved potency in vivo due to the selective and efficient delivery to hepatocytes in the liver via receptor-mediated endocytosis, which is what drives the high interest in this molecule. The ways to synthesize such structures are relatively new and have not been optimized in terms of the yields and stages both in lab and large-scale synthesis. Another significant criterion, especially in large-scale synthesis, is to match ecological norms and perform the synthesis in accordance with the Green Chemistry approach, i.e., to control and minimize the amounts of reagents and resources consumed and the waste generated. Here, we provide a robust and resource effective pot-economy method for the synthesis of triantennary GalNAc and GalNAc phosphoramidite/CPG optimized for laboratory scales.
Peak Spectral Homogeneity in LC/DAD: Exploring Alternatives in Peak Purity Evaluations
Authors: Preda Dana-Maria , Comănescu Mircea-Alexandru , Voicu Victor , Grinberg Nelu , Medvedovici Andrei-Valentin
Published: December 2024

Spectral peak purity evaluations are often used to control inadequate selectivity issues appearing in liquid chromatography separations coupled with UV-Vis photodiode detection, despite known limitations related to (a) the lack of characteristic absorption bands in UV-Vis for target analytes and overlapping related impurities; (b) increased similarity between the spectral characteristics of co-eluting compounds; (c) large concentration differences between overlapping compounds; (d) perfect co-elution cases. We propose an alternative protocol to evaluate differences between spectra collected over a peak’s elution interval. After normalizing the acquired spectra, linear regression was applied between each pair of spectra, resulting in slope, intercepts, and correlation coefficient sets, from each comparison. The means and standard deviations of each variable are thus computed. An ellipsoid in the 3D Cartesian space illustrates these computations, having the mean coordinates as center and 2 × standard deviations of the variables as the axes. The volume of the ellipsoid should be related to the similarity between the compared spectra; a smaller volume indicates a higher spectral similarity. This approach was evaluated with respect to the (a) concentration of the analytes; (b) spectral acquisition parameters (spectral resolution, spectral frequency acquisition); (c) spectral similarity between overlapping peaks; (d) perfect co-elution situation; (e) influence of spectral processing (derivation, wavelength rationing), using test solutions of carbamazepine (a,b), acetyl cysteine and enalapril maleate (c), or nitrazepam and diazepam (d,e).
Comprehensive Analysis of Feasibility by Ascending Mining in Coal Mine
Authors: Li Yunpeng , Yang Wenhua , Gu Helong , Xu Yixin
Published: December 2024

In order to study the feasibility of upward mining in a certain coal mine, the mechanical parameters of the coal rock mass were obtained based on on-site investigation and rock mechanics experiments. A numerical model that conforms to the on-site mining layout was established using numerical simulation methods. The stress, displacement, and plastic zone distribution characteristics of the upper coal rock mass at different positions along the X, Y and Z directions after the initial mining of layered coal were analyzed. The critical thickness for tensile failure of the roof during upward mining was calculated using the thick plate theory. A ground penetrating radar was used on site to conduct three-dimensional detection of the fragmentation characteristics of the overlying roof rock. The results show that after the mining of 5# coal, the stress of the overlying roof surrounding rock in the goaf exhibits a dynamic change process of rising peak falling. As the vertical height from the working face increases, the stress in the center of the goaf and around the working face gradually decreases; the displacement distribution extends outwards from the center of the working face, forming a sinking basin with an upward opening in the direction of inclination and direction of the working face. The maximum displacement value is at the bottom of the basin; there is a tensile stress zone above the working face, and the plastic zone has the largest range at the center of the working face direction and inclination. The plastic zone has not evolved to coal 4# and coal 3#; the maximum critical thickness for tensile failure of the roof is 55.4 m, which is much smaller than the actual thickness of 99.82 m on site, and upward mining can be adopted.
Quantum Majorization in Market Crash Prediction
Authors: Montana J Rhet , Souto Arias Luis A. , Cirillo Pasquale , Oosterlee Cornelis W.
Published: December 2024

We introduce the Quantum Alarm System, a novel framework that combines the informational advantages of quantum majorization applied to tail pseudo-correlation matrices with the learning capabilities of a reinforced urn process, to predict financial turmoil and market crashes. This integration allows for a more nuanced analysis of the dependence structure in financial markets, particularly focusing on extreme events reflected in the tails of the distribution. Our model is tested using the daily log-returns of the 30 constituents of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, spanning from 2 January 1992 to 30 August 2024. The results are encouraging: in the validation set, the 12-month ahead probability of correct alarm is between 73% and 80%, while maintaining a low false alarm rate. Thanks to the application of quantum majorization, the alarm system effectively captures non-traditional and emerging risk sources, such as the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic—an area where traditional models often fall short.
Reconstruction of High-Resolution Solar Spectral Irradiance Based on Residual Channel Attention Networks
Authors: Zhang Peng , Weng Jianwen , Kang Qing , Li Jianjun
Published: December 2024

The accurate measurement of high-resolution solar spectral irradiance (SSI) and its variations at the top of the atmosphere is crucial for solar physics, the Earth’s climate, and the in-orbit calibration of optical satellites. However, existing space-based solar spectral irradiance instruments achieve high-precision SSI measurements at the cost of spectral resolution, which falls short of meeting the requirements for identifying fine solar spectral features. Therefore, this paper proposes a new method for reconstructing high-resolution solar spectral irradiance based on a residual channel attention network. This method considers the stability of SSI spectral features and employs residual channel attention blocks to enhance the expression ability of key features, achieving the high-accuracy reconstruction of spectral features. Additionally, to address the issue of excessively large output features from the residual channel attention blocks, a scaling coefficient adjustment network block is introduced to achieve the high-accuracy reconstruction of spectral absolute values. Finally, the proposed method is validated using the measured SSI dataset from SCIAMACHY on Envisat-1 and the simulated dataset from TSIS-1 SIM. The validation results show that, compared to existing scaling coefficient adjustment algorithms, the proposed method achieves single-spectrum super-resolution reconstruction without relying on external data, with a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 0.0302% for the reconstructed spectra based on the dataset. The proposed method achieves higher-resolution reconstruction results while ensuring the accuracy of SSI.
Methodology for Removing Striping Artifacts Encountered in Planet SuperDove Ocean-Color Products
Authors: Slocum Brittney , Ladner Sherwin , Lawson Adam , Lewis Mark David , McCarthy Sean
Published: December 2024

The Planet SuperDove sensors produce eight-band, three-meter resolution images covering the blue, green, red, red-edge, and NIR spectral bands. Variations in spectral response in the data used to perform atmospheric correction combined with low signal-to-noise over ocean waters can lead to visible striping artifacts in the downstream ocean-color products. It was determined that the striping artifacts could be removed from these products by filtering the top of the atmosphere radiance in the red and NIR bands prior to selecting the aerosol models, without sacrificing high-resolution features in the imagery. This paper examines an approach that applies this filtering to the respective bands as a preprocessing step. The outcome and performance of this filtering technique are examined to assess the success of removing the striping effect in atmospherically corrected Planet SuperDove data.
A 35 nV/√Hz Analog Front-End Circuit with Adjustable Bandwidth and Gain in UMC 40 nm CMOS for Biopotential Signal Acquisition
Authors: Liu Lu , Wang Bin , Xu Yiren , Lin Xiaokun , Yang Weitao , Ding Yinglong
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a 35 nV/√Hz analog front-end (AFE) circuitdesigned in the UMC 40 nm CMOS technology for the acquisition of biopotential signal. The proposed AFE consists of a capacitive-coupled instrumentation amplifier (CCIA) and a combination of a programmable gain amplifier (PGA) and a low-pass filter (LPF). The CCIA includes a DC servo loop (DSL) to eliminate electrode DC offset (EDO) and a ripple rejection loop (RRL) with self-zeroing technology to suppress high-frequency ripples caused by the chopper. The PGA-LPF is realized using switched-capacitor circuits, enabling adjustable gain and bandwidth. Implemented in theUMC 40 nm CMOS process, the AFE achieves an input impedance of 368 MΩ at 50 Hz, a common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR) of 111 dB, an equivalent input noise of 1.04 μVrms over the 0.5–1 kHz range, and a maximum elimination of 50 mV electrode DC offset voltage. It occupies an area of only 0.39 × 0.47 mm2 on the chip, with a power consumption of 8.96 μW.
Microplastics as an Emerging Potential Threat: Toxicity, Life Cycle Assessment, and Management
Authors: Ali Sameh S. , Alsharbaty Mohammed Hussein M. , Al-Tohamy Rania , Khalil Maha A. , Schagerl Michael , Al-Zahrani Majid , Sun Jianzhong
Published: December 2024

The pervasiveness of microplastics (MPs) in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems has become a significant environmental concern in recent years. Because of their slow rate of disposal, MPs are ubiquitous in the environment. As a consequence of indiscriminate use, landfill deposits, and inadequate recycling methods, MP production and environmental accumulation are expanding at an alarming rate, resulting in a range of economic, social, and environmental repercussions. Aquatic organisms, including fish and various crustaceans, consume MPs, which are ultimately consumed by humans at the tertiary level of the food chain. Blocking the digestive tracts, disrupting digestive behavior, and ultimately reducing the reproductive growth of entire living organisms are all consequences of this phenomenon. In order to assess the potential environmental impacts and the resources required for the life of a plastic product, the importance of life cycle assessment (LCA) and circularity is underscored. MPs-related ecosystem degradation has not yet been adequately incorporated into LCA, a tool for evaluating the environmental performance of product and technology life cycles. It is a technique that is designed to quantify the environmental effects of a product from its inception to its demise, and it is frequently employed in the context of plastics. The control of MPs is necessary due to the growing concern that MPs pose as a newly emergent potential threat. This is due to the consequences of their use. This paper provides a critical analysis of the formation, distribution, and methods used for detecting MPs. The effects of MPs on ecosystems and human health are also discussed, which posed a great challenge to conduct an LCA related to MPs. The socio-economic impacts of MPs and their management are also discussed. This paper paves the way for understanding the ecotoxicological impacts of the emerging MP threat and their associated issues to LCA and limits the environmental impact of plastic.
Dieta da rã-das-pedras (Thoropa miliaris) (Anura: Cycloramphidae) na Serra do Mar e Serra da Mantiqueira, Sudeste do Brasil
Authors:   , Oliveira Henrique José de
Published: December 2024

A escassez de pesquisas sobre interações bióticas (déficit Eltoniano) é um dos maiores impedimentos ao avanço do conhecimento sobre a biodiversidade. Investigar a ecologia trófica de uma espécie é uma etapa essencial para preenchermos tais lacunas. O Brasil, a despeito de possuir a maior riqueza de anfíbios anuros do mundo, tem grandes lacunas de conhecimento sobre interações bióticas mesmo para espécies comuns. Um exemplo é a rãdas-pedras, Thoropa miliaris (Spix, 1824), espécie endêmica de ambientes rochosos da Mata Atlântica que ocorre do sudeste do Brasil ao sul da Bahia. Neste trabalho detalhamos a dieta de T. miliaris e verificamos se indivíduos da espécie selecionam suas presas ou as consomem conforme a sua disponibilidade no ambiente. Além disso, verificamos se a disponibilidade de presas potenciais e a dieta de T. miliaris difere entre dois complexos serranos (Serra do Mar e Serra da Mantiqueira). Nossa hipótese é de que a espécie possua dieta generalista e que a disponibilidade de presas e a diversidade de presas consumidas sejam maiores na Serra do Mar, como possível reflexo da maior produtividade primária comparada à Serra da Mantiqueira. Para a análise da dieta, coletamos exemplares de T. miliaris e as presas disponíveis no ambiente (invertebrados) em dez localidades ao longo da Serra do Mar e Serra da Mantiqueira entre novembro de 2021 e janeiro de 2022. Capturamos as rãs manualmente e as presas usando armadilhas de interceptação e queda e através da coleta de serapilheira. Identificamos as presas no conteúdo estomacal e as presas coletadas no ambiente até o nível taxonômico de Ordem utilizando bibliografias especializadas. Devido à grande abundância e frequência de formigas nas amostras, nós as identificamos até o nível de gênero. O ambiente não proporcionou variação significativa na dieta de T. miliaris, e Formicidae foi a categoria de presa consumida seletivamente em maior volume, frequência e abundância nos dois complexos serranos. Nosso estudo é o mais amplo a analisar e avaliar a disponibilidade de presas do ambiente e a dieta de um membro de Cycloramphidae e, contrário do que esperávamos, T. miliaris não apresentou uma dieta generalista/oportunista descrita para a maioria dos anuros e sua dieta pouco difere entre as populações.
Detecção de SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19) através da técnica de amplificação isotérmica mediada por LOOP (LAMP)
Authors:   , Queiroz Luiza da Silva
Published: December 2024

Em 2019, a pandemia de COVID 19 causada pelo vírus Sars-CoV-2 acarretou em milhões de casos e mortes em todo o mundo. O diagnóstico do novo coronavírus durante a pandemia de COVID-19 foi essencial para prevenir a propagação do vírus e acompanhar a dinâmica da infecção. Os principais testes para diagnóstico de COVID-19 incluem testes sorológicos e moleculares. Aqui, descrevemos um método de diagnóstico molecular para a detecção de SARS-CoV-2 através da técnica de amplificação isotérmica mediada por Loop (RT-LAMP). Utilizamos essa técnica para detectar e amplificar sequências genéticas de SARS-CoV-2 usando um conjunto de iniciadores que possuem como alvo as regiões que codificam a proteína N. Para padronização, avaliamos material genético de pacientes já testados para o SARSCoV-2 por RT-qPCR. A técnica de RT-LAMP possui alguns obstáculos como resultados falsos positivos que podem ser ocasionados pelo pH ácido na reação. Dessa forma, nossos objetivos foram padronizar as reações de amplificação por RTLAMP para detecção de SARS- CoV-2, avaliando a amplificação da reação RT-LAMP com ou sem ajuste de pH e avaliando sempre a sensibilidade, especificidade e acurácia. Aqui utilizamos um total de 858 amostras de pacientes com síndrome respiratória, que foram divididas em três grupos, na primeira análise realizamos os ensaios de acordo com as recomendações do fabricante, sem ajuste de pH, e tivemos uma acurácia de 50,96% (k=0.041) em comparação aos resultados do RT-qPCR. Essa acurácia foi melhorada no grupo cuja reação de RT-LAMP foi corrigida o pH para 8-9, sendo a acurácia de 72,22% (k=0.484). Observamos também que a sensibilidade aumentou de 82% (95% CI, 68.56-91.42) para 92,19% (95% CI, 82.70-97.41), o mesmo acontecendo com a especificidade, indo de 22,22% (95%CI, 12.04-35.60) a 56.25% (95%CI, 43.28-68.63), após o ajuste de pH. Após a padronização com RTLAMP tempo real (rtRT-LAMP), a acurácia foi de 71,57% (k=0. 42), a sensibilidade foi 77.99% (95% CI, 71.76-83.41) e a especificidade melhorou com 68,35% (95% CI, 63.64-72.79). Esses dados demonstram que o ajuste de pH é importante para obter melhores resultados na técnica de RT-LAMP, contribuindo na validação para o desenvolvimento de diagnósticos baseados em RT-LAMP.