bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of Antimicrobial Agents: From Interpolyelectrolyte Complexes to Silver-Containing Metal–Polymer Complexes and Nanocomposites
Authors: Klimov Dmitry I. , Zharikov Alexey A. , Zezina Elena A. , Kotenkova Elena A. , Zaiko Elena V. , Bataeva Dagmara S. , Semenova Anastasia A. , Yushina Yulia K. , Yaroslavov Aleksander A. , Zezin Alexey A.
Published: October 2024

In order to control pathogenic microorganisms, three polymer compositions were prepared and tested. First, a water-soluble positively charged polycomplex was synthesized via the electrostatic binding of anionic polyacrylic acid to an excess of polyethylenimine to enhance the biocidal activity of the polycation. Second, an aqueous solution of AgNO3 was added to the polycomplex, thus forming a ternary polycation-polyanion-Ag1+ complex with an additional antimicrobial effect. Third, the resulting ternary complex was subjected to UV irradiation, which ensured the conversion of Ag1+ ions into Ag nanoparticles ranging in size mainly from 10 to 20 nm. Aqueous solutions of the polymer compositions were added to suspensions of the Gram-positive bacteria S. aureus and the Gram-negative bacteria P. aeruginosa, with the following main results: (a) Upon the addition of the binary polycomplex, 30% or more of the cells survived after 20 h. (b) The ternary complex killed S. aureus bacteria but was ineffective against P. aeruginosa bacteria. (c) When the ternary complex with Ag nanoparticles was added, the percentage of surviving cells of both types did not exceed 0.03%. The obtained results are valuable for the development of antibacterial formulations.
Experimental and CFD Analysis of Hydrodynamics in Dual-Impeller Crystallizer at Different Off-Bottom Clearances
Authors: Čelan Antonija , Ćosić Marija , Penga Željko , Kuzmanić Nenad
Published: October 2024

Producing tailor-made crystals demands knowledge of the influence of hydrodynamics and nucleation kinetics. In this paper, the hydrodynamic conditions in a dual-impeller crystallizer and their influence on the key nucleation parameters of the batch cooling crystallization of borax at different impeller off-bottom clearances were investigated. Two different impeller configurations were used—a dual pitched-blade turbine (2 PBT) and a dual straight-blade turbine (2 SBT). Hydrodynamics was analyzed in depth based on the developed computational fluid dynamics model. The experimental results on mixing time and power input were used to validate the numerical model. The results show that the properties of the final product are affected by the impeller position in both dual-impeller configurations. An increase in the impeller off-bottom clearance in both systems results in a decrease in the mean crystal size. The hydrodynamic conditions generated at C/D = 1 in the 2 PBT impeller system and at C/D = 0.6 in the 2 SBT impeller system favored an earlier onset of nucleation compared to other impeller positions. It was found that the eddy dissipation rate and the Kolmogorov length scale correlate highly with the mean crystal size, suggesting that the size is affected by the shear stress in the vessel, rather than the overall convective flow.
Sikh Religion and Contentions around Caste
Authors: Jodhka Surinder S.
Published: October 2024

Caste has been a contentious subject in Sikhism. While the Sikh theological canons have vehemently opposed its practice, it continues to be present among the Sikhs, including its discriminatory culture. The obvious response of the Sikh leaders and scholars has been to ask for ‘a moral self-criticism’. The issue thus becomes praxeological, a matter of aligning ‘practice with the theory’. This is a simplistic response. Such a narrative also does not allow us to raise relevant questions about the contemporary framings of caste as a hegemonic construct. It also does not permit us to engage with its diverse empirics among the Sikhs and its other contextual dynamics. The paper argues that to move forward, we need to critically explore the currently popular notions of caste, most of which are drawn from orientalist and colonial constructs. They present India as being a land of Hindus and the practice of caste being its essential feature. The Indian nationalists enthusiastically endorsed such a framing because they found it useful for making claims about India’s cultural unity. Drawing from a large volume of historical and empirical writings, the paper identifies problems with such a narrative of caste which sees it as a purely religious practice. It further argues for a need to look at the materiality of caste. Religious prescripts, such as Manusriti, function as ‘ideological signals’ that promote and legitimize it. In contrast, the ideological signals provided by the Gurus and the Sikh religious canons are unambiguously opposed to such ascription-based hierarchies.
Storying Anthropocene Waters: Advocacy through Resacralization in Postcolonial River Narratives of the Indian Subcontinent
Authors: Hegde Ashwini , Rangarajan Swarnalatha
Published: October 2024

Against the background of contemporary debates about the Anthropocene and the attendant danger of global warming and climate change, which is causally linked to the unchecked exploitation of the earth by humans, narratives which embody an earth-centric scientia sacra become tools of advocacy for the ‘resacralization’ of the earth. This paper explores three South Asian river narratives that offer a blueprint for mindfully inhabiting the earth under the shadow of the Anthropocene. Calling for a participatory relationship with the holiness of water, they challenge the construction of water in a rapidly globalizing, uneven society shaped by a colonial hydrology in which the ecological relationship between land and water is out of balance. Drawing attention to the multiple ways in which the human and non-human world are enmeshed in the Anthropocene, these narratives engage with environmental justice concerns and challenge the hierarchy or perspectives and worldviews regarding accepted notions of subalternity. These texts construct a triptych suggesting an embedded ecotheology of the material and the spiritual, thereby sensitising the reader to the endangered waterscapes of the Anthropocene and also to the promise of the Symbiocene through an awareness of the fluid relational field that we share with the greater-than-human world.
Risk Retention and Management Implications of Medical Malpractice in the Italian Health Service
Authors: Colivicchi Ilaria , Fabbri Tommaso , Iannizzotto Antonio
Published: October 2024

This work provides an economic exploration of the multifaceted world of medical malpractice risk. Third party liability insurance plays a central role in protecting healthcare providers and public care institutions from the financial consequences of medical malpractice claims, although in recent years, the industry landscape has been characterised by periods of distress for this type of protection, with rising litigations and reimbursement costs, resulting in a peculiarly complex market. For the Italian context, the study focuses on the financial repercussions for healthcare institutions of the growing trend towards risk retention practises, legally empowered by the introduction of Law No. 24/2017. The analysis employs Generalised Linear Models for the regressive approach to incorporate the structural and organisational characteristics of hospitals and uses quantitative simulations to explore different scenarios at a regional aggregate level. Due to the limited existing literature and data on the topic, this research aims to provide new methods for effectively understanding and managing this type of risk, thereby supporting decision-making processes in the healthcare sector.
Clustering of Basic Educational Resources and Urban Resilience Development in the Central Region of China—An Empirical Study Based on POI Data
Authors: Song Tao , Luo Xiang , Li Xin
Published: October 2024

This paper presents an urban resilience evaluation index system and evaluation on the clustering of educational resources based on the data of 80 prefecture-level cities in China’s central region in 2012, 2016, and 2020. The results reveal a rising trend of urban resilience in the central region of China, with the provincial capital cities exhibiting the highest levels of resilience. Educational resources are clustered in urban areas of provincial capital cities and other prefectural-level cities. Furthermore, clustering of educational resources has a significant impact on urban resilience. Policy factors play a significant role in moderating the relationship between educational resource clustering and urban resilience in large cities; however, this moderating role is not significant in small cities. These findings have significant implications for the optimal allocation of educational resources, promotion of urban resilience, and advancement of social equity.
Measurement Campaign of Radio Frequency Interference in a Portion of the C-Band (4–5.8 GHz) for the Sardinia Radio Telescope
Authors: Schirru Luca , Gaudiomonte Francesco
Published: October 2024

Radio frequency interference (RFI) analysis is crucial for ensuring the proper functioning of a radio telescope and the quality of astronomical observations, as human-generated interference can compromise scientific data collection. The aim of this study is to present the results of an RFI measurement campaign in the frequency range of 4–5.8 GHz, a portion of the well-known C-band, for the Sardinia Radio Telescope (SRT), conducted in October–November 2023. In fact, this Italian telescope, managed by the Astronomical Observatory of Cagliari (OAC), a branch of the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF), was recently equipped with a new C-band receiver that operates from 4.2 GHz to 5.6 GHz. The measurements were carried out at three strategically chosen locations around the telescope using the INAF mobile laboratory, providing comprehensive coverage of all possible antenna pointing directions. The results revealed several sources of RFI, including emissions from radar, terrestrial and satellite communications, and wireless transmissions. Characterizing these sources and assessing their frequency band occupation are essential for understanding the impact of RFI on scientific observations. This work provides a significant contribution to astronomers who will use the SRT for scientific observations, offering a suggestion for the development of mitigation strategies and safeguarding the radio astronomical environment for future observational campaigns.
Short-Term Responsive Mating Intentions Increase with Estradiol and Testosterone across the Menstrual Cycle: Scale Development and an Observational Study
Authors: Zugic Kaitlyn E. , Teatero Missy L. , Phillips Maggie , Oinonen Kirsten A.
Published: October 2024

The extent to which estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone influence mating behavior across the menstrual cycle is unclear. The Proactive and Responsive Mating Strategies Scales (PARMSS) were developed to separately examine two specific components of sexuality and were used here to test divergent hormonal associations. Preliminary psychometric data (N = 364 females) suggest that both scales consist of one factor and demonstrate strong psychometric properties (internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and construct and convergent validity). The PARMSS were used in a repeated-measures observational study to examine the relationships between changes in endogenous hormone levels and both proactive and responsive mating intentions with potential new short-term or long-term partners in healthy pre-menopausal participants (N = 38). At two points in their cycle, participants provided salivary hormone samples in the laboratory and reported the likelihood of engaging in proactive and responsive behaviors with men in photos and vignettes. Participants reported greater responsive than proactive intentions. Increases in estradiol and testosterone across the cycle were associated with increases in short-term mating intentions, particularly responsivity to potential short-term relationship partners. No associations were found for intentions that were proactive or that involved potential long-term partners or for progesterone. Changes in the three hormones explained changes in short-term responsive mating intentions (22% of the variance). The results suggest (a) cyclical changes in estradiol and testosterone are differentially associated with changes in responsive vs. proactive mating intentions and (b) context-dependent changes (i.e., short-term vs. long-term mating intentions and possibly relationship status). The findings require replication with larger and diverse samples.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Rugby Athletes: The Role of Dietary Supplements and Their Consumption
Authors: Sapuppo Walter , Monda Antonietta , Giacconi Davide , Gregori Grgič Regina , Saccenti Daniele , Mineo Claudia Maria , Monda Vincenzo , Allocca Salvatore , Casillo Maria , Monda Marcellino , Di Maio Girolamo , La Marra Marco
Published: October 2024

This study investigates dietary supplement use among rugby players and their general health, focusing on prevalence and underlying motivations. Involving 92 athletes, it examines the relationship between supplement usage, motivations, and health outcomes using the 36-item Short Form Health Survey and a 24-item ad hoc questionnaire. Findings reveal a high frequency of supplement usage, motivated by desires to enhance performance, appearance, and mood. Significant differences in health-related quality of life are found between users and non-users, particularly in mental health, social functioning, and emotional stability. Motivations like performance enhancement and body shape manipulation were linked to altered health perceptions, indicating the psychosocial impacts of supplementation. This study emphasizes the need to consider the holistic effects of supplements on athlete well-being, advocating for a balanced approach prioritizing both physical and mental health. It calls for increased awareness among athletes, coaches, and sports professionals about the potential risks and benefits of supplement use and the importance of informed decision-making. Additionally, it highlights the need for further research to understand the mechanisms of supplement use and its impact on athlete health, aiming to enhance sports science and promote overall athlete well-being in competitive environments.
Does Innovation Sustainability Attract Retail Investors? The Clientele Effect in China
Authors: Yuan Man , Li Yuru , Yang Tengfei
Published: October 2024

Innovation sustainability is essential for businesses to maintain their competitive edge and ensure long-term growth. This not only benefits individual companies but also entire industries. Despite its importance, research on retail investors’ preferences for innovation sustainability remains limited. To address this gap, we analyzed unique data on shareholder numbers in listed Chinese companies from 2007 to 2020. We differentiate between institutional and retail investors to analyze the latter’s preferences. This finding indicates that retail investors prefer to invest in companies with higher innovation sustainability. This preference stems from their limitations in capabilities of information collection, analytical skills, and risk diversification. The clientele effect is more pronounced when companies face a poor innovation environment, an opaque information environment, and a weak political connection. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical support for the clientele effect and shedding light on retail investors’ preferences and investment behavior. By focusing on company fundamentals, our study extends the examination of the clientele effect to the corporate governance level. These insights have significant implications for promoting sustainable development, impacting both companies and the capital market.
The Impact of Digital Marketing on the Performance of SMEs: An Analytical Study in Light of Modern Digital Transformations
Authors: Sharabati Abdel-Aziz Ahmad , Ali Ahmad Ali Atieh , Allahham Mahmoud Izzat , Hussein Alhareth Abu , Alheet Ahmad Fathi , Mohammad Abdelaziz Saleh
Published: October 2024

This research intends to evaluate the effect on the performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) of technological developments, including digital marketing, and to determine the variables that affect the relationship. Because these businesses are essential to driving local economies, boosting local economic growth, and creating job opportunities, this is a very important question, and figuring out how to best help them succeed through digital marketing is critical. The data were generated from a sample of 190 marketing companies, and each of the managers of these companies was surveyed for the information needed. This research focuses on the impact of SMEs’ performance through digital marketing strategies, including online advertising, social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and customer engagement through digital channels. A further analysis was performed looking at the mediating effect of digital transformation on the relationship between digital marketing and firm performance. The theoretical lens in the current study is the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which argues that technology use depends on perceived use and perceived usefulness. The results revealed that digital marketing is essential for SME effectiveness, as a driver of digital transformation, leading to stronger economic results and an enlarged market presence. Engagement with customers on digital channels to understand their behavior and preferences helps organizations create better experiences and products, and sell smarter as well. This offers application insights to the practitioners and proves the empirical data telling the SMEs how to plan the adoption of digital marketing. It also offers policy recommendations to authorities on how to promote digital innovation and provide financial and technical assistance to SMEs in this vital area.
Numerical and Experimental Power Output Estimation for a Small-Scale Hinged Wave Energy Converter
Authors: Martins Giovanni , Rosa-Santos Paulo , Giannini Gianmaria
Published: October 2024

Wave energy converters (WECs) integrated into breakwaters present a promising solution for combining coastal protection with renewable energy generation, addressing both energy demands and environmental concerns. Additionally, this integration offers cost-sharing opportunities, making the overall investment more economically viable. This study explores the potential of a hinged point-absorber WEC, specifically designed as a floating hinged half-sphere, by assessing the device’s power output and comparing two different breakwater configurations. To evaluate the device’s performance, a comprehensive numerical and experimental approach was adopted. Numerical simulations were carried out using a radiation-diffraction model, a time domain tool for analyzing wave–structure interactions. These simulations predicted average power outputs of 25 kW for sloped breakwaters and 18 kW for vertical breakwaters located at two strategic sites: the Port of Leixões and the mouth of the Douro River in Portugal. To validate these predictions, a 1:14 scale model of the WEC was constructed and subjected to testing in a wave–current flume, replicating different sea-state conditions. The experimental results closely aligned with the numerical simulations, demonstrating a good match in terms of relative error and relative amplitude operator (RAO). This alignment confirms the reliability of the predictive model. These findings support the potential of integrating WECs into breakwaters, contributing to port energy self-sufficiency and decarbonization.
The Impact of Romanian Internal Auditors in ESG Reporting and Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Gherai Dana Simona , Sabău Popa Diana Claudia , Rus Luminița , Matica Diana Elisabeta , Mare Codruța
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of an internal auditor’s activities in Romania, through their specific activities, on ESG reporting and sustainable development goals (SDGs). Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) are three criteria by which an organization’s operations are characterized as sustainable, responsible, or ethical. Even though, for business, the SDGs have been called “a 2030 purchase order for business and government action today”, the alignment between environmental, social, and governance performance and sustainable development goals helps practitioners in observing corporate contributions to sustainable growth. This research aims to identify whether internal auditors in Romania are able to contribute to ESG reporting and the achievement of the sustainable development goals through specific objective assurance and advisory activities. Using the questionnaire, the data were collected from professional accountants who carry out internal audit missions. The main findings confirm a strong and directly significant connection between the internal audit’s perception of the management’s view of the SDGs and how the entity can contribute to achieving the SDG objectives. The results also showed a direct and medium-intensity impact of the variables, capturing the important role of internal audits in ESG reporting. Our study showed that internal audits can help with reporting ESG and sustainable development objectives through their activity. However, according to our statistical results, the internal auditors do not offer at all (or rarely offer) objective assurance and counseling related to these subjects. Moreover, it is observed that, in these situations, the management does not have a clear vision and has not taken measures to achieve the sustainable development goals and ESG factors.
Thermographic Analysis of Green Wall and Green Roof Plant Types under Levels of Water Stress
Authors: Elkadi Hisham , Seifhashemi Mahsa , Lauwerijssen Rachel
Published: October 2024

Urban green infrastructure (UGI) plays a vital role in mitigating climate change risks, including urban development-induced warming. The effective maintenance and monitoring of UGI are essential for detecting early signs of water stress and preventing potential fire hazards. Recent research shows that plants close their stomata under limited soil moisture availability, leading to an increase in leaf temperature. Multi-spectral cameras can detect thermal differentiation during periods of water stress and well-watered conditions. This paper examines the thermography of five characteristic green wall and green roof plant types (Pachysandra terminalis, Lonicera nit. Hohenheimer, Rubus tricolor, Liriope muscari Big Blue, and Hedera algeriensis Bellecour) under different levels of water stress compared to a well-watered reference group measured by thermal cameras. The experiment consists of a (1) pre-test experiment identifying the suitable number of days to create three different levels of water stress, and (2) the main experiment tested the suitability of thermal imaging with a drone to detect water stress in plants across three different dehydration stages. The thermal images were captured analyzed from three different types of green infrastructure. The method was suitable to detect temperature differences between plant types, between levels of water stress, and between GI types. The results show that leaf temperatures were approximately 1–3 °C warmer for water-stressed plants on the green walls, and around 3–6 °C warmer on the green roof compared to reference plants with differences among plant types. These insights are particularly relevant for UGI maintenance strategies and regulations, offering valuable information for sustainable urban planning.
Arrival Time and Bohmian Mechanics: It Is the Theory Which Decides What We Can Measure
Authors: Drezet Aurélien
Published: October 2024

In this work, we analyze recent proposals by Das and Dürr (DD) to measure the arrival time distributions of quantum particles within the framework of de Broglie Bohm theory (or Bohmian mechanics). We also analyze the criticisms made by Goldstein Tumulka and Zanghì (GTZ) of these same proposals, and show that each protagonist is both right and wrong. In detail, we show that DD’s predictions are indeed measurable in principle, but that they will not lead to violations of the no-signalling theorem used in Bell’s theorem, in contradiction with some of Das and Maudlin’s hopes.
Optimal Scheduling of PV Panel Cleaning and Policy Implications Considering Uncertain Dusty Weather Conditions in the Middle East
Authors: Matar Abubaker Gebreil Siddig , An Heungjo
Published: October 2024

Airborne dust easily accumulates on the top of solar panel surfaces and reduces the output power in arid regions. A commonly used mitigation solution for dust deposition issues is cleaning PV panels periodically. However, cleaning frequency affects the economic viability of solar PV systems, resulting in a trade-off between cleaning costs and energy loss costs. To address this issue, this study relates several metrics and develops a generic framework based on simulation and optimization to determine the optimal cleaning interval. Based on the computational tests, the optimal cleaning interval in Abu Dhabi is determined to be 34 days, which is longer than the currently recommended cleaning interval of 28 days. This study also identifies that energy recovery is responsive to decreases in unit cleaning costs in the presence of high electricity tariffs, whereas total cost savings show sensitivity when electricity tariffs are low. Finally, this study discusses energy policy implications by presenting an innovative concept involving the introduction of a cleaning subsidy which could reshape energy system cost dynamics, making PV systems economically competitive beyond the conventional levelized cost of electricity.
Linking Tourist Willingness to Pay and Beach Management: A Travel Cost Analysis for Balandra Marine Park, Mexico
Authors: Moreno-Gutiérrez Mónica , Hernández-Trejo Víctor , Valdivia-Alcalá Ramón , Juárez-Mancilla Judith , Cruz-Chávez Plácido Roberto , Jakes-Cota Ulianov
Published: October 2024

Balandra, one of the most popular beaches in La Paz, Baja California Sur, was declared a flora and fauna protection area in 2012, and in 2019, the Mexican government chose it as the best beach in Mexico during the Tianguis Turistico celebrated on that year. Because of this latter distinction, this beach currently faces overcrowding. Formulating effective management policies depends, to a certain extent, on the knowledge of their recreational value and visitor characteristics. Recreational value allows us to know the benefits of the tradeoffs among the ecosystem services and society and exhibit the value of possible damages to marine ecosystems, like the one caused in 2022 by the fire of a tourist boat inside Balandra. Using the individual travel cost method and applying 159 questionnaires to site visitors, the individual willingness to pay to access Balandra Beach was estimated, resulting in USD 11.11/day/visitor. Recreational economic value (REV) for Balandra was estimated using two essential criteria: first, the total visitors registered in 2021, and second, the daily maximum carrying capacity. Welfare recreational loss was also calculated, derived from the site’s two-month closure, using REV as a proxy. Finally, beach management options and possible environmental and economic policy instruments that could be implemented are discussed.
New Insights into the Mechanisms of Toxicity of Aging Microplastics
Authors: Chelomin Victor Pavlovich , Istomina Aleksandra Anatolyevna , Mazur Andrey Alexandrovich , Slobodskova Valentina Vladimirovna , Zhukovskaya Avianna Fayazovna , Dovzhenko Nadezhda Vladimirovna
Published: October 2024

Nowadays, synthetic polymer (plastic) particles are ubiquitous in the environment. It is known that for several decades microplastics (MPs) have been accumulating in the World Ocean, becoming available to a large variety of marine organisms. Particularly alarming is the accumulation of aging plastic particles, as the degradation processes of such particles increase their toxicity. The diverse display of negative properties of aging MPs and its effect on biota are still poorly understood. In this study, in vitro experiments modeling the interaction of pristine and UV-irradiated aging polypropylene (PP) fragments with hemocytes and mitochondria of bivalve mollusks Mytilus sp. were performed. The appearance of free radicals in the environment was recorded by spectral characteristics of indicator dyes—methylene blue (MB) and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT). It was found that due to photooxidation, aging PP fragments sorbed more than threefold MB on their modified surface compared to pristine samples of this polymer. Using NBT, the formation of reactive oxygen species in seawater in the presence of pristine and photoactivated PP was recorded. It was also found that photodegraded PP fragments largely stimulated the development of lipid peroxidation processes in mitochondrial membranes and reduced the stability of hemocyte lysosome membranes compared to pristine PP fragments. In general, the results obtained concretize and supplement with experimental data the previously stated hypothesis of toxicity of aging MPs.
What Do Travelers Know about Traveler’s Diarrhea? Impact of a Pre-Travel Consultation in the Lisbon Area, Portugal
Authors: Estrada Joana , Conceição Cláudia , Augusto Gonçalo Figueiredo , Teodósio Rosa
Published: October 2024

Traveler’s diarrhea (TD) is one of the most common travel-related health problems, largely interfering with planned activities and potentially contributing to antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to characterize the knowledge about TD among pre-travel consultation users of one Portuguese travel clinic and determine the impact of the consultation on knowledge levels. Using a quasi-experimental, separate-sample pretest–posttest design, participants were randomly assigned to two groups: control/pre-consultation group (CG) or experimental/post-consultation group (EG). An anonymous self-administered questionnaire was used. A total of 470 participants were analyzed (227 CG; 243 EG). The EG/post-consultation group showed significant improvement in knowledge, with correct answers increasing from 63% to 75% (p < 0.001). However, knowledge gaps persisted: over 50% were unaware of TD’s self-limited nature, 30% did not recognize loperamide as a symptom reliever, and 36% believed all travelers should take antibiotics to prevent TD. The educational level and previous travel outside Europe influenced baseline knowledge; previous travel medicine consultations and information on TD improved knowledge in both groups and made it easier to acquire knowledge on the subject. Thus, a pre-travel consultation effectively increased travelers’ TD knowledge. However, post-consultation knowledge levels remained suboptimal, indicating the need for targeted interventions to increase travelers’ literacy and optimize pre-travel consultations.
Alternative Pharmaceutical Innovation Models in Competitive Markets: A Collaborative Approach to Develop a Novel Drug for Hepatitis C
Authors: Vieira Marcela , Slovenski Iulia , Large Kaitlin , Alonso Ruiz Adrian , Moon Suerie
Published: October 2024

Alternative innovation models have emerged to address failures of the traditional pharmaceutical system, particularly for diseases where market incentives do not attract sufficient research and development efforts. However, the feasibility of such models for diseases with significant markets is not well-established. This article analyses the development of a novel drug (ravidasvir) for the treatment of hepatitis C, a highly profitable market. Data from qualitative research methods, including literature reviews and semi-structured interviews, was analyzed using a novel conceptual framework focusing on actors, resources, organizational practices, and outcomes. Dissimilar to other projects, ravidasvir did not involve any major pharmaceutical companies. Rather, it leveraged the capacities of actors less traditionally involved in the development of novel medicines by constructing a collaborative network of private and public partners from low- and middle-income countries with a shared goal. The collaboration was successful in developing a highly effective, easy-to-use, and affordable medicine and contributed significantly to capacity-strengthening. However, the case also highlighted that strategic behavior by competing for-profit firms could pose significant challenges and that changing external conditions reduced the potential public health impact of the drug. Lessons from ravidasvir can inform future efforts to develop alternative innovation models for therapeutic areas with significant commercial interest.
Factors Associated with IgG/IgM Levels after SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Liao Wei , Liang Haoyu , Liang Yujian , Gao Xianlu , Liao Guichan , Cai Shaohang , Liu Lili , Chen Shuwei
Published: October 2024

This study evaluated the factors influencing IgG/IgM antibody levels in 120 patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) following vaccination with inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Each patient’s demographic and clinical data were documented, and serum IgG and IgM antibodies were detected using a commercial magnetic chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay kit. The results indicated that while all patients had received at least one vaccine dose, 95 tested positive for IgG and 25 were negative. A higher proportion of IgG-positive patients had received three vaccine doses. Comparatively, gamma-glutamyl transferase levels were elevated in IgM-negative patients. The study further differentiated patients based on their treatment status: 46 were treatment-naive and 74 had received chemotherapy combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICT) at enrollment. Despite similar baseline characteristics and time from vaccination to antibody detection, IgM positivity was significantly lower in the ICT group, with no significant difference in IgG positivity between the treatment-naive and ICT groups. A multivariable analysis identified the number of vaccine doses as an independent factor of IgG positivity, while ICT emerged as an independent risk factor for IgM positivity. Additionally, IgG titers generally declined over time, although patients with higher baseline IgG levels maintained higher titers longer. In conclusion, ICT in patients with HNC does not significantly affect IgG levels post-vaccination. However, booster vaccinations have been shown to be associated with higher IgG positivity, although these levels gradually decrease over time.
A Digital Twin of a University Campus from an Urban Sustainability Approach: Case Study in Madrid (Spain)
Authors: García-Aranda César , Martínez-Cuevas Sandra , Torres Yolanda , Pedrote Sanz María
Published: October 2024

The development of geographic information systems has grown significantly over the past decade. Simultaneously, the concept of smart cities based on the management of large volumes of data has also spread worldwide. The digital twin concept has recently been incorporated into the technological domain of urban management. However, currently, phases such as technological integration, standardization, data and process interconnection, the development of tools and utilities, professional training, and the application of digital urban development in real-world situations are converging. This paper presents the experience developed on a university campus, detailing each of the phases carried out from the initial design to a fully operational pilot phase model. The article highlights the importance of certain aspects to consider in each phase, demonstrating that there are barriers and limitations and at the same time, great strengths and opportunities in applying the digital twin model in urban management, considering aspects such as mobility, accessibility, energy management, and involving students and university administrators in the process.
Vaccination for Mpox (Monkeypox) Infection in Humans: From Basic Science to Real-World Effectiveness
Authors: See Kay Choong
Published: October 2024

Human mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is a multi-system disease caused by an orthopox DNA virus [...]
Immunogenicity and Protectivity of Sputnik V Vaccine in hACE2-Transgenic Mice against Homologous and Heterologous SARS-CoV-2 Lineages Including Far-Distanced Omicron BA.5
Authors: Dolzhikova Inna V. , Tukhvatulin Amir I. , Grousova Daria M. , Zorkov Ilya D. , Komyakova Marina E. , Ilyukhina Anna A. , Kovyrshina Anna V. , Shelkov Artem Y. , Botikov Andrey G. , Samokhvalova Ekaterina G. , Reshetnikov Dmitrii A. , Siniavin Andrey E. , Savina Daria M. , Shcheblyakov Dmitrii V. , Izhaeva Fatima M. , Dzharullaeva Alina S. , Erokhova Alina S. , Popova Olga , Ozharovskaya Tatiana A. , Zrelkin Denis I. , Goldovskaya Polina P. , Semikhin Alexander S. , Zubkova Olga V. , Nedorubov Andrey A. , Gushchin Vladimir A. , Naroditsky Boris S. , Logunov Denis Y. , Gintsburg Alexander L.
Published: October 2024

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 virus continuously acquires mutations, leading to the emergence of new variants. Notably, the effectiveness of global vaccination efforts has significantly declined with the rise and spread of the B.1.1.529 (Omicron) variant. Methods: The study used virological, immunological and histological research methods, as well as methods of working with laboratory animals. In this study, we evaluated the Gam-COVID-Vac (Sputnik V), an adenoviral vaccine developed by the N.F. Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology, and conducted experiments on hemizygous K18-ACE2-transgenic F1 mice. The variants studied included B.1.1.1, B.1.1.7, B.1.351, B.1.1.28/P.1, B.1.617.2, and B.1.1.529 BA.5. Results: Our findings demonstrate that the Sputnik V vaccine elicits a robust humoral and cellular immune response, effectively protecting vaccinated animals from challenges posed by various SARS-CoV-2 variants. However, we observed a notable reduction in vaccine efficacy against the B.1.1.529 (Omicron BA.5) variant. Conclusions: Our results indicate that ongoing monitoring of emerging mutations is crucial to assess vaccine efficacy against new SARS-CoV-2 variants to identify those with pandemic potential. If protective efficacy declines, it will be imperative to develop new vaccines tailored to current variants of the virus.
Citric Acid by-Product Fermentation by Bacillus subtilis I9: A Promising Path to Sustainable Animal Feed
Authors: Tanpong Sirisak , Khochamit Nalisa , Pootthachaya Padsakorn , Siripornadulsil Wilailak , Unnawong Narirat , Cherdthong Anusorn , Tengjaroenkul Bundit , Wongtangtintharn Sawitree
Published: October 2024

Citric acid by-products in animal feed pose a sustainability challenge. Bacillus species are commonly used for fermenting and improving the nutritional quality of feedstuffs or by-products. An experiment was conducted to enhance the nutritional value of citric acid by-products through fermentation with Bacillus subtilis I9 for animal feed. The experiment was carried out in 500 mL Erlenmeyer flasks with 50 g of substrate and 200 mL of sterile water. Groups were either uninoculated or inoculated with B. subtilis I9 at 107 CFU/mL. Incubation occurred at 37 °C with automatic shaking at 150 rpm under aerobic conditions for 0, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. Inoculation with B. subtilis I9 significantly increased Bacillus density to 9.3 log CFU/mL at 24 h (p < 0.05). CMCase activity gradually increased, reaching a maximum of 9.77 U/mL at 72 h. After 96 h of fermentation with inoculated B. subtilis I9, the citric acid by-product exhibited a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in crude fiber by 10.86%, hemicellulose by 20.23%, and cellulose by 5.98%, but an increase in crude protein by 21.89%. Gross energy decreased by 4% after inoculation with B. subtilis in comparison to the uninoculated control (p < 0.05). Additionally, the non-starch polysaccharide (NSP) degradation due to inoculation with B. subtilis I9 significantly reduced (p < 0.05) NSP by 24.37%, while galactose, glucose, and uronic acid decreased by 22.53%, 32.21%, and 18.11%, respectively. Amino acid profile content increased significantly by more than 12% (p < 0.05), including indispensable amino acids such as histidine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, and valine and dispensable amino acids like alanine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, and tyrosine. Furthermore, citric acid by-products inoculated with B. subtilis I9 exhibited changes in the cell wall structure under scanning electron microscopy, including fragmentation and cracking. These results suggest that fermenting citric acid by-products with B. subtilis I9 effectively reduces dietary fiber content and improves the nutritional characteristics of citric acid by-products for use in animal feed.
Biodiversity and Soil Reinforcement Effect of Vegetation Buffer Zones: A Case Study of the Tongnan Section of the Fujiang River Basin
Authors: Wang Xinhao , Liu Dongsheng , Chang Zhihui , Tang Jiang , Wang Yunqi , Wang Yanlei , Huang Sheng , Li Tong , Qi Zihan , Hu Yue
Published: October 2024

The riparian vegetation buffer zone is an important component of riverbank ecosystems, playing a crucial role in soil consolidation and slope protection. In this study, the riparian vegetation buffer zones in the Tongnan section of the Fujiang River Basin were selected as the research object. Surveys and experiments were conducted to assess the species composition and the soil and water conservation effectiveness of the riparian vegetation buffer zone. There are a total of 35 species, mainly comprising angiosperms and ferns. The dominant species include Cynodon dactylon, Setaria viridis, Phragmites australis, Erigeron canadensis, and Melilotus officinalis. The Patrick richness index (R) and Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H) are more significantly influenced by the types of land use in the surrounding area, whereas the impact on the Simpson diversity index (D) and Pielou uniformity index (E) is comparatively less pronounced. When the root diameter is less than 0.2 mm, the tensile strength of Cynodon dactylon roots is the highest. For root diameters larger than 0.2 mm, Melilotus officinalis roots exhibit the highest tensile strength. The presence of plant root systems significantly reduces erosion, delaying the time to reach maximum erosion depth by 1–4 min, decreasing erosion depth by 9–38 mm, and reducing the total amount of erosion by 20.17–58.90%. The anti-scouribility effect of Cynodon dactylon is significantly better than that of Setaria viridis. The root system notably enhances soil shear strength, delaying the shear peak by 0.26–4.8 cm, increasing the shear peak by 4.76–11.37 kPa, and raising energy consumption by 23.76–46.11%. Phragmites australis has the best resistance to shear, followed by Erigeron canadensis, with Melilotus officinalis being the least resistant. Therefore, to balance the anti-scouribility effect and shear resistance of plant roots, it is recommended to use a combination of Cynodon dactylon and Phragmites australis for shallow-rooted and deep-rooted planting. This approach enhances the water and soil conservation capacity of riverbanks.
Hydrochemical Characteristics and Formation Mechanism of Geothermal Fluids in Zuogong County, Southeastern Tibet
Authors: Han Sihang , Nan Dawa , Liu Zhao , Gesang Nima , Bianma Chengcuo , Zhao Haihua , Zheng Yadong , Xiao Peng
Published: October 2024

Zuogong County is located in the southeast of Tibet, which is rich in hot spring geothermal resources, but its development and utilization degree are low, and the genetic mechanism of the geothermal system is not clear. Hydrogeochemical characteristics of geothermal water are of great significance in elucidating the genesis and evolution of geothermal systems, as well as the sustainable development and utilization of geothermal resources. The hydrogeochemical characteristics and genesis of the geothermal water in Zuogong County were investigated using hydrogeochemical analysis, a stable isotope (δD, δ18O) approach, and an inverse simulation model for water–rock reactions using the PHREEQC. The results indicated that the Zuogong geothermal system is a deep circulation heating type without a magmatic heat source. The chemical types present in the geothermal water from the Zuogong area are HCO3 and HCO3·SO4, and the main cations are Na+ and Ca2+. The groundwater is replenished by atmospheric precipitation and glacier meltwater. The salt content of geothermal water mainly comes from the interaction between water and surrounding rocks during the deep circulation process. The reservoir temperature of geothermal water in Zuogong is 120–176 °C before mixing with non-geothermal water and drops to 62–98 °C after mixing with 58 to 79% of non-geothermal water. According to the proposed conceptual model, geothermal water mainly produces water–rock interaction with aluminosilicate minerals in the deep formation, while in shallow areas it interacts mainly with sulfate minerals. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the geothermal system in Zuogong County, Tibet.
Steady-State Shape Factor for a Slug Test in an Unconfined Aquifer
Authors: De Smedt Florimond
Published: October 2024

A new solution is presented for the steady-state shape factor of a partially penetrating well in an unconfined aquifer. The problem is solved by taking into account mixed boundary conditions at the well, i.e., zero flux at the well casing and constant head at the well screen equal to the head in the well so that the flow through the well screen is non-uniform. The new method is compared with established methods, such as those of Bouwer and Rice and Zlotnik et al., demonstrating that the new approach provides more accurate results under certain conditions. The comparison highlights that the new method is particularly effective in scenarios where the assumptions of uniform flow through the well screen do not hold. This study assumes idealized conditions, such as homogeneity, isotropy, and negligible storativity in the aquifer, which may limit the method’s applicability in more complex environments. The computational demands of the iterative solution process may pose challenges for practical use, especially in resource-constrained settings.
Water and the Origin of Life
Authors: Henry Marc
Published: October 2024

This article reviews all the major stages in the origins of life, from the emergence of matter in the initial Big Bang to the modern, civilized human being. On an immaterial level, it is proposed and explained how consciousness necessarily takes precedence over matter. Next, we explain how consciousness, with its ability to process information, selected the water molecule to breathe life into the periodic table of elements. We also explain why the notion of entropy allows us to evolve, “Die Entropie der Welt strebt einem Maximum zu” (second principle), and, therefore, takes precedence over the notion of energy, which, on the contrary, encourages us to preserve what we have, “Die Energie der Welt bleibt konstant” (first principle). This is followed by a discussion of the importance of quantum coherence and the need to rely on a second quantization formalism for a proper understanding of the physical–biochemical properties of water. Moreover, throughout the argument developed on the best and most fundamental things science has to offer, care is taken to link this knowledge to the great philosophies of the West (Greece), the East (China and India), and even to practices of a shamanic nature (Africa and America). Hence, finally, we propose reconsidering all musical practice within the framework of the diapason of water at a frequency of 429.62 Hz, as well as all therapeutic practice on the basis of seven clearly identified and established frameworks of thought.