bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smart pH Sensing: A Self-Sensitivity Programmable Platform with Multi-Functional Charge-Trap-Flash ISFET Technology
Authors: Kim Yeong-Ung , Cho Won-Ju
Published: February 2024

This study presents a novel pH sensor platform utilizing charge-trap-flash-type metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (CTF-type MOSFETs) for enhanced sensitivity and self-amplification. Traditional ion-sensitive field-effect transistors (ISFETs) face challenges in commercialization due to low sensitivity at room temperature, known as the Nernst limit. To overcome this limitation, we explore resistive coupling effects and CTF-type MOSFETs, allowing for flexible adjustment of the amplification ratio. The platform adopts a unique approach, employing CTF-type MOSFETs as both transducers and resistors, ensuring efficient sensitivity control. An extended-gate (EG) structure is implemented to enhance cost-effectiveness and increase the overall lifespan of the sensor platform by preventing direct contact between analytes and the transducer. The proposed pH sensor platform demonstrates effective sensitivity control at various amplification ratios. Stability and reliability are validated by investigating non-ideal effects, including hysteresis and drift. The CTF-type MOSFETs’ electrical characteristics, energy band diagrams, and programmable resistance modulation are thoroughly characterized. The results showcase remarkable stability, even under prolonged and repetitive operations, indicating the platform’s potential for accurate pH detection in diverse environments. This study contributes a robust and stable alternative for detecting micro-potential analytes, with promising applications in health management and point-of-care settings.
Improving the Accuracy of Metatarsal Osteotomies in Minimally Invasive Foot Surgery Using a Digital Inclinometer: Preliminary Study
Authors: Fernández-Vizcaino Carlos , Nieto-García Eduardo , Fernández-Ehrling Nadia , Ferrer-Torregrosa Javier
Published: February 2024

Minimally invasive foot surgery (MIS) has become a common procedure to treat various pathologies, and accuracy in the angle of metatarsal osteotomies is crucial to ensure optimal results. This randomized controlled trial with 37 patients investigates whether the implementation of a digital inclinometer can improve the accuracy of osteotomies compared to traditional freehand techniques. Patients were randomly allocated to group A (n = 15) receiving inclinometer-assisted surgery or group B (n = 22) receiving conventional surgery. Osteotomies were performed and outcomes were evaluated using an inclinometer. The inclinometer group showed a significant decrease in plantar pressure from 684.1 g/cm2 pretreatment to 449.5 g/cm2 post-treatment (p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 5.477). The control group decreased from 584.5 g/cm2 to 521.5 g/cm2 (p = 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.801). The effect size between groups was large (Cohen’s d = −2.572, p < 0.001). The findings indicate a significant improvement in accuracy and reduction in outliers when using an inclinometer, suggesting that this technology has the potential to improve surgical practice and patient outcomes in minimally invasive metatarsal osteotomies.
Railway Catenary Condition Monitoring: A Systematic Mapping of Recent Research
Authors: Chen Shaoyao , Frøseth Gunnstein T. , Derosa Stefano , Lau Albert , Rönnquist Anders
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a different approach to the traditional literature review—literature systematic mapping—is adopted to summarize the progress in the recent research on railway catenary system condition monitoring in terms of aspects such as sensor categories, monitoring targets, and so forth. Importantly, the deep interconnections among these aspects are also investigated through systematic mapping. In addition, the authorship and publication trends are also examined. Compared to a traditional literature review, the literature mapping approach focuses less on the technical details of the research but reflects the research trends, and focuses in a specific field by visualizing them with the help of different plots and figures, which makes it more visually direct and comprehensible than the traditional literature review approach.
Examination of Traditional Botnet Detection on IoT-Based Bots
Authors: Woodiss-Field Ashley , Johnstone Michael N. , Haskell-Dowland Paul
Published: February 2024

A botnet is a collection of Internet-connected computers that have been suborned and are controlled externally for malicious purposes. Concomitant with the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), botnets have been expanding to use IoT devices as their attack vectors. IoT devices utilise specific protocols and network topologies distinct from conventional computers that may render detection techniques ineffective on compromised IoT devices. This paper describes experiments involving the acquisition of several traditional botnet detection techniques, BotMiner, BotProbe, and BotHunter, to evaluate their capabilities when applied to IoT-based botnets. Multiple simulation environments, using internally developed network traffic generation software, were created to test these techniques on traditional and IoT-based networks, with multiple scenarios differentiated by the total number of hosts, the total number of infected hosts, the botnet command and control (CnC) type, and the presence of aberrant activity. Externally acquired datasets were also used to further test and validate the capabilities of each botnet detection technique. The results indicated, contrary to expectations, that BotMiner and BotProbe were able to detect IoT-based botnets—though they exhibited certain limitations specific to their operation. The results show that traditional botnet detection techniques are capable of detecting IoT-based botnets and that the different techniques may offer capabilities that complement one another.
Multimodal and Multidomain Feature Fusion for Emotion Classification Based on Electrocardiogram and Galvanic Skin Response Signals
Authors: Dessai Amita , Virani Hassanali
Published: February 2024

Emotion classification using physiological signals is a promising approach that is likely to become the most prevalent method. Bio-signals such as those derived from Electrocardiograms (ECGs) and the Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) are more reliable than facial and voice recognition signals because they are not influenced by the participant’s subjective perception. However, the precision of emotion classification with ECG and GSR signals is not satisfactory, and new methods need to be developed to improve it. In addition, the fusion of the time and frequency features of ECG and GSR signals should be explored to increase classification accuracy. Therefore, we propose a novel technique for emotion classification that exploits the early fusion of ECG and GSR features extracted from data in the AMIGOS database. To validate the performance of the model, we used various machine learning classifiers, such as Support Vector Machine (SVM), Decision Tree, Random Forest (RF), and K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) classifiers. The KNN classifier gives the highest accuracy for Valence and Arousal, with 69% and 70% for ECG and 96% and 94% for GSR, respectively. The mutual information technique of feature selection and KNN for classification outperformed the performance of other classifiers. Interestingly, the classification accuracy for the GSR was higher than for the ECG, indicating that the GSR is the preferred modality for emotion detection. Moreover, the fusion of features significantly enhances the accuracy of classification in comparison to the ECG. Overall, our findings demonstrate that the proposed model based on the multiple modalities is suitable for classifying emotions.
A Review of Catalyst Modification and Process Factors in the Production of Light Olefins from Direct Crude Oil Catalytic Cracking
Authors: Emberru Ruth Eniyepade , Patel Raj , Mujtaba Iqbal Mohammed , John Yakubu Mandafiya
Published: February 2024

Petrochemical feedstocks are experiencing a fast growth in demand, which will further expand their market in the coming years. This is due to an increase in the demand for petrochemical-based materials that are used in households, hospitals, transportation, electronics, and telecommunications. Consequently, petrochemical industries rely heavily on olefins, namely propylene, ethylene, and butene, as fundamental components for their manufacturing processes. Presently, there is a growing interest among refineries in prioritising their operations towards the production of fuels, specifically gasoline, diesel, and light olefins. The cost-effectiveness and availability of petrochemical primary feedstocks, such as propylene and butene, can be enhanced through the direct conversion of crude oil into light olefins using fluid catalytic cracking (FCC). To achieve this objective, the FCC technology, process optimisation, and catalyst modifications may need to be redesigned. It is helpful to know that there are several documented methods of modifying traditional FCC catalysts’ physicochemical characteristics to enhance their selectivity toward light olefins’ production, since the direct cracking of crude oil to olefins is still in its infancy. Based on a review of the existing zeolite catalysts, this work focuses on the factors that need to be optimized and the approaches to modifying FCC catalysts to maximize light olefin production from crude oil conversion via FCC. Several viewpoints have been combined as a result of this research, and recommendations have been made for future work in the areas of optimising the yield of light olefins by engineering the pore structure of zeolite catalysts, reducing deactivation by adding dopants, and conducting technoeconomic analyses of direct crude oil cracking to produce light olefins.
Study on the Stability of Cut Slopes Caused by Rural Housing Construction in Red Bed Areas: A Case Study of Wanyuan City, China
Authors: He Hailin , Dong Xiujun , Du Simin , Guo Hua , Yan Yue , Chen Guohui
Published: February 2024

The red beds that are widely distributed in hilly areas in eastern Sichuan Province are inevitable rock and soil masses in engineering construction. In order to obtain a larger building area, engineering slope cutting is quite common in red bed hilly areas. Engineering slope cutting destroys the inherent stability of a slope and causes geological disasters. In order to practice the concept of sustainable development and explore ways to develop and utilize land resources reasonably and reduce the possibility of geological disasters caused by engineering slope cutting, this paper took the slope cutting sites caused by rural housing construction in the red bed area of Wanyuan City as research objects. The internal and external factors affecting the stability of the cut slopes were summarized through a field investigation, and two typical slopes were selected for analysis. Sampling and indoor tests were conducted to obtain the geotechnical parameters. Geo Studio software (2018 R2) was employed to establish numerical models, simulate the stress and strain distributions, and compute stability coefficients under different slope cutting conditions at the same time. Based on field investigations and numerical simulations, the three main failure modes of shallow landslides caused by slope cutting were summarized, and the evolution process of slope landform accelerated by slope cutting activities was deduced. In an engineering application, the functional relationship between the cutting height and the stability coefficient was fitted. It was found that the critical cut height values of soil slope were 6.3 m, 6.2 m, 5.2 m, and 2.6 m at slope of 10°, 20°, 30° and 40°, respectively; the critical cut height values of rock–soil mixed slope were 9.3 m, 6.5 m, 5.9 m, and 2.2 m at slope of 10°, 20°, 30° and 40°, respectively. The research findings can be used to prevent and manage the hazards caused by slope cutting in this study area.
Phase Diffusion Mitigation in the Truncated Mach–Zehnder Interferometer
Authors: Liao Quan , Ma Hongmei , Chen Liqing , Zhang Weiping , Yuan Chun-Hua
Published: February 2024

The presence of phase diffusion noise may lead to the loss of quantum measurement advantages, resulting in measurement results that cannot beat the standard quantum limit (SQL). Squeezing is considered an effective method for reducing the detrimental effect of phase diffusion on a measurement. Reasonable use of squeezing can make a measurement exceed the SQL. The Mach–Zehnder (MZ) interferometer has been exploited as a generic tool for precise phase measurement. Describing the reduction in quantum advantage caused by phase diffusion in an MZ interferometer that can be mitigated by squeezing is not easy to handle analytically because the input state changes from a pure state to a mixed state after experiencing the diffusion noise in the MZ interferometer. We introduce a truncated MZ interferometer, a symmetrical structure that can achieve the same potential phase sensitivity as the conventional MZ interferometer. This scheme can theoretically explain how phase diffusion reduces phase estimation and why squeezing counteracts the presence of phase diffusion. Using the Gaussian property of the input state and the characteristic of Gaussian operation in the squeezing, the two orthogonal field quantities of the quantum state are squeezed and anti-squeezed to different degrees, and the analytic results are obtained. This result can beat the SQL and provide reliable theoretical guidance for the experiment. The truncated MZ interferometer is more straightforward to build and operate than the conventional MZ interferometer. Moreover, it mitigates the phase diffusion noise via the squeezing operation, thus making it useful for applications in quantum metrology.
System Identification of Enterprise Innovation Factor Combinations—A Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis Method
Authors: Dou Zixin , Sun Yanming
Published: February 2024

High-tech manufacturing enterprises, as innovative entities, are a key focus of national attention. Currently, such enterprises are facing both internal governance pressure and external institutional pressure. Unlike traditional studies that mostly use regression equations, this article uses the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis method to examine how high-tech manufacturing enterprises can coordinate their internal governance mechanisms and external institutional pressures to achieve optimal innovation. This improves the complex mechanism of the multiple factors jointly explaining corporate innovation, and also helps to elucidate the nonlinear relationship between internal governance factors, external institutional factors, and corporate innovation, effectively enriching research methods and results. However, there has not been any research on the issue of enterprise innovation from the perspective of coordinating the two, which urgently needs to be addressed. This article examines how high-tech manufacturing enterprises can reconcile their internal governance mechanisms with external institutional pressures to achieve optimal innovation. The results showed that (1) a single factor cannot constitute the necessary conditions for innovation in high-tech manufacturing enterprises, but executive and shareholder governance have universality in the innovation in high-tech manufacturing enterprises; (2) in the absence of political advantages, high-tech manufacturing enterprises should focus on the coordinated development of internal governance, making board, executive, and shareholder governance the core conditions for innovative development; (3) with political advantages as the main focus and market attention as a supplement, high-tech manufacturing enterprises promote innovative development by combining executive and shareholder governance. This finding indicates a significant substitution effect between government legitimacy and board governance, and confirms that the importance of obtaining government legitimacy for high-tech manufacturing innovation is higher than market legitimacy. This article enriches the research on enterprise innovation by linking internal corporate governance with external institutional pressure, expands the research on the coordination relationship between institutional pressure and corporate governance, and has enlightening significance in revealing the collaborative path for innovation in high-tech manufacturing enterprises.
Angle Calculus-Based Thrust Force Determination on the Blades of a 10 kW Wind Turbine
Authors: Dorrego-Portela José Rafael , Ponce-Martínez Adriana Eneida , Pérez-Chaltell Eduardo , Peña-Antonio Jaime , Mateos-Mendoza Carlos Alberto , Robles-Ocampo José Billerman , Sevilla-Camacho Perla Yazmin , Aviles Marcos , Rodríguez-Reséndiz Juvenal
Published: February 2024

In this article, the behavior of the thrust force on the blades of a 10 kW wind turbine was obtained by considering the characteristic wind speed of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Analyzing mechanical forces is essential to efficiently and safely design the different elements that make up the wind turbine because the thrust forces are related to the location point and the blade rotation. For this reason, the thrust force generated in each of the three blades of a low-power wind turbine was analyzed. The angular position (θ) of each blade varied from 0° to 120°, the blades were segmented (r), and different wind speeds were tested, such as cutting, design, average, and maximum. The results demonstrate that the thrust force increases proportionally with increasing wind speed and height, but it behaves differently on each blade segment and each angular position. This method determines the angular position and the exact blade segment where the smallest and the most considerable thrust force occurred. Blade 1, positioned at an angular position of 90°, is the blade most affected by the thrust force on P15. When the blade rotates 180°, the thrust force decreases by 9.09 N; this represents a 66.74% decrease. In addition, this study allows the designers to know the blade deflection caused by the thrust force. This information can be used to avoid collision with the tower. The thrust forces caused blade deflections of 10% to 13% concerning the rotor radius used in this study. These results guarantee the operation of the tested generator under their working conditions.
Multistage Malware Detection Method for Backup Systems
Authors: Novak Pavel , Oujezsky Vaclav , Kaura Patrik , Horvath Tomas , Holik Martin
Published: February 2024

This paper proposes an innovative solution to address the challenge of detecting latent malware in backup systems. The proposed detection system utilizes a multifaceted approach that combines similarity analysis with machine learning algorithms to improve malware detection. The results demonstrate the potential of advanced similarity search techniques, powered by the Faiss model, in strengthening malware discovery within system backups and network traffic. Implementing these techniques will lead to more resilient cybersecurity practices, protecting essential systems from hidden malware threats. This paper’s findings underscore the potential of advanced similarity search techniques to enhance malware discovery in system backups and network traffic, and the implications of implementing these techniques include more resilient cybersecurity practices and protecting essential systems from malicious threats hidden within backup archives and network data. The integration of AI methods improves the system’s efficiency and speed, making the proposed system more practical for real-world cybersecurity. This paper’s contribution is a novel and comprehensive solution designed to detect latent malware in backups, preventing the backup of compromised systems. The system comprises multiple analytical components, including a system file change detector, an agent to monitor network traffic, and a firewall, all integrated into a central decision-making unit. The current progress of the research and future steps are discussed, highlighting the contributions of this project and potential enhancements to improve cybersecurity practices.
Evaluation of Cytotoxicity and Oxidative Stress of Whole Aerosol from Vuse Alto ENDS Products
Authors: Keyser Brian M. , Leverette Robert , Wertman John , Shutsky Tom , McRae Reagan , Szeliga Ken , Makena Patrudu , Jordan Kristen
Published: February 2024

Assessment of in vitro cytotoxicity is an important component of tobacco product toxicological evaluations. However, current methods of regulatory testing involve exposing monolayer cell cultures to various preparations of aerosols from cigarettes or other emerging products such as electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), which are not representative of human exposure. In the present study, a whole aerosol (WA) system was used to expose lung epithelial cultures (2D and 3D) to determine the potential of six Vuse Alto ENDS products that varied in nicotine content (1.8%, 2.4%, and 5%) and flavors (Golden Tobacco, Rich Tobacco, Menthol, and Mixed Berry), along with a marketed ENDS and a marked cigarette comparator to induce cytotoxicity and oxidative stress. The WA from the Vuse Alto ENDS products was not cytotoxic in the NRU and MTT assays, nor did it activate the Nrf2 reporter gene, a marker of oxidative stress. In summary, Vuse Alto ENDS products did not induce cytotoxic or oxidative stress responses in the in vitro models. The WA exposures used in the 3D in vitro models described herein may be better suited than 2D models for the determination of cytotoxicity and other in vitro functional endpoints and represent alternative models for regulatory evaluation of tobacco products.
Targeting with Structural Analogs of Natural Products the Purine Salvage Pathway in Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum by Computer-Aided Drug-Design Approaches
Authors: Barazorda-Ccahuana Haruna Luz , Cárcamo-Rodriguez Eymi Gladys , Centeno-Lopez Angela Emperatriz , Galdino Alexsandro Sobreira , Machado-de-Ávila Ricardo Andrez , Giunchetti Rodolfo Cordeiro , Coelho Eduardo Antonio Ferraz , Chávez-Fumagalli Miguel Angel
Published: February 2024

Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) has a high death rate, with 500,000 new cases and 50,000 deaths occurring annually. Despite the development of novel strategies and technologies, there is no adequate treatment for the disease. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to find structural analogs of natural products as potential novel drugs to treat VL. We selected structural analogs from natural products that have shown antileishmanial activities, and that may impede the purine salvage pathway using computer-aided drug-design (CADD) approaches. For these, we started with the vastly studied target in the pathway, the adenine phosphoribosyl transferase (APRT) protein, which alone is non-essential for the survival of the parasite. Keeping this in mind, we search for a substance that can bind to multiple targets throughout the pathway. Computational techniques were used to study the purine salvage pathway from Leishmania infantum, and molecular dynamic simulations were used to gather information on the interactions between ligands and proteins. Because of its low homology to human proteins and its essential role in the purine salvage pathway proteins network interaction, the findings further highlight the significance of adenylosuccinate lyase protein (ADL) as a therapeutic target. An analog of the alkaloid Skimmianine, N,N-diethyl-4-methoxy-1-benzofuran-6-carboxamide, demonstrated a good binding affinity to APRT and ADL targets, no expected toxicity, and potential for oral route administration. This study indicates that the compound may have antileishmanial activity, which was granted in vitro and in vivo experiments to settle this finding in the future.
Inhibiting Liver Autophagy and Promoting Hepatocyte Apoptosis by Schistosoma japonicum Infection
Authors: Yu Zhihao , Jiang Tingting , Xu Fangfang , Zhang Jing , Hu Yuan , Cao Jianping
Published: February 2024

We established a mouse model of Schistosoma japonicum infection in order to study the effects of the infection on hepatocyte autophagy and apoptosis. We also stimulated HepG2 cells with soluble egg antigens (SEA) in vitro. At two, four, and six weeks post-infection, quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot (WB) were used to detect liver expression levels of autophagy and apoptosis-related proteins. HepG2 cells were treated with different concentrations of SEA. The changes in the levels of autophagy-related proteins and HepG2 cell apoptosis were detected. The Lc3b, Beclin1, Atg7, and Atg12 mRNA levels were significantly lower at four and six weeks after infection than those in the uninfected group. At four and six weeks following infection, the levels of Beclin1, LC3BII/I, Atg7, and p62 proteins were considerably lower than those in the uninfected group. The protein levels of pro-apoptotic Bax and cleaved caspase 3 and fibrosis-related proteins α-SMA and collagen 3 in the liver post-infection were significantly higher than those in uninfected mice. HepG2 cells stimulated with SEA showed decreased levels of Beclin1, p62, and Atg7 proteins and significantly increased apoptosis rates. The findings demonstrated that following infection with S. japonicum, mice’s liver fibrosis worsened, hepatic autophagy was suppressed, and hepatocyte apoptosis was encouraged.
Molecular Epidemiology of Peste Des Petits Ruminants Virus in West Africa: Is Lineage IV Replacing Lineage II in Burkina Faso?
Authors: Biguezoton Abel S. , Ilboudo Guy Sidwatta , Wieland Barbara , Sawadogo Rahinata W-Y. , Dah Fairou F. , Sidibe Cheick A. K. , Zoungrana Adrien , Okoth Edward , Dione Michel
Published: February 2024

This study aimed at investigating the genetic lineages of peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) currently circulating in Burkina Faso. As part of PPR surveillance in 2021 and 2022, suspected outbreaks in different regions were investigated. A risk map was produced to determine high-risk areas for PPR transmission. Based on alerts, samples were obtained from three regions and all sampled localities were confirmed to fall within PPR high risk areas. We collected swab samples from the eyes, mouth, and nose of sick goats. Some tissue samples were also collected from dead animals suspected to be infected by PPRV. In total, samples from 28 goats were analysed. Virus confirmation was performed with RT-PCR amplification targeting the nucleocapsid (N) gene. Partial N gene sequencing (350 bp) was carried out using the RT-PCR products of positives samples to characterise the circulating lineages. Eleven sequences, including ten new sequences, have been obtained. Our study identified the presence of the PPRV lineage IV in the three studied regions in Burkina Faso with a genetic heterogeneity recorded for the sequences analysed. Previously published data and results of this study suggest that PPRV lineage IV seems to be replacing lineage II in Burkina Faso.
HIV-1 Transcription and Latency in the Spotlight
Authors: D’Orso Iván
Published: February 2024

At every integrated HIV-1 genome, there is a transcriptional cycle that ultimately shapes proviral fate [...]
Assessment of BoAHV-1 Seronegative Latent Carrier by the Administration of Two Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis Live Marker Vaccines in Calves
Authors: Petrini Stefano , Righi Cecilia , Costantino Giulia , Scoccia Eleonora , Gobbi Paola , Pellegrini Claudia , Pela Michela , Giammarioli Monica , Viola Giulio , Sabato Roberto , Tinelli Elena , Feliziani Francesco
Published: February 2024

Seronegative latent carriers (SNLCs) are animals that carry the virus without detectable antibodies and pose a risk for disease transmission and diagnostic challenges, suggesting the importance of consideration of marker vaccines in managing them. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated two modified live infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) marker vaccines (single and double deletions) for their ability to generate SNLC calves. These vaccines were administered to four groups (n = 3 in each group) of three-month-old calves in the presence or absence of passive immunity. Three hundred days after the first vaccination and after confirming the IBR seronegativity of all animals, dexamethasone was administered intravenously for five consecutive days. Only animals immunized with the modified live IBR marker vaccine (single deletion) in the absence of passive immunity exhibited a more enduring immune response than those vaccinated in the presence of passive immunity. Moreover, the administration of a modified live IBR marker vaccine (double deletion) to calves with passive immunity generated SNLC. These findings underscore the potential of live IBR marker vaccine (double-deletions) to aid serological diagnostic tools and develop vaccination protocols in achieving the desired immune response, particularly in the context of latent carrier status, offering valuable insights into optimizing vaccination strategies for effective IBR control.
The aroA and luxS Double-Gene Mutant Strain Has Potential to Be a Live Attenuated Vaccine against Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Zuo Wei , Yang Denghui , Wu Xiaojun , Zhang Beibei , Wang Xinyu , Hu Jiangang , Qi Jingjing , Tian Mingxing , Bao Yanqing , Wang Shaohui
Published: February 2024

Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) is a zoonotic pathogen posing a threat to animal husbandry and public health. Due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains, alternative prevention and control strategies are needed. Live attenuated vaccines are an ideal option that provide protection against an S. Typhimurium pandemic. To develop a safe and effective vaccine, double-gene mutations are recommended to attenuate virulence. In this study, we chose aroA and luxS genes, whose deletion significantly attenuates S. Typhimurium’s virulence and enhances immunogenicity, to construct the double-gene mutant vaccine strain SAT52ΔaroAΔluxS. The results show that the mutant strain’s growth rate, adherence and invasion of susceptible cells are comparable to a wild-type strain, but the intracellular survival, virulence and host persistence are significantly attenuated. Immunization assay showed that 106 colony-forming units (CFUs) of SAT52ΔaroAΔluxS conferred 100% protection against wild-type challenges; the bacteria persistence in liver and spleen were significantly reduced, and no obvious pathological lesions were observed. Therefore, the double-gene mutant strain SAT52ΔaroAΔluxS exhibits potential as a live attenuated vaccine candidate against S. Typhimurium infection.
The Impact of Clinical Factors and SARS-CoV-2 Variants on Antibody Production in Vaccinated German Healthcare Professionals Infected Either with the Delta or the Omicron Variant
Authors: Gerhards Catharina , Steingass Marlene , Heininger Alexandra , Lange Bettina , Hetjens Michael , Gerigk Marlis , Neumaier Michael , Evliyaoglu Osman , Kittel Maximilian
Published: February 2024

Background: The aim of the rapid introduction of vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic was a reduction in SARS-CoV-2 transmission and a less frequent occurrence of severe COVID-19 courses. Thus, we evaluated COVID-19 severity in vaccinated individuals to examine variant-specific symptom characteristics and their clinical impact on the serological immune response. Methods: A total of 185 individuals previously vaccinated against and infected with the SARS-CoV-2 Delta (B.1.617.2) or Omicron (BA.4 and BA.5) variant, were enrolled for anti-SARS-CoV-2 anti-N- and anti-RBD/S1-Ig level detection. A structured survey regarding medical history was conducted. Results: In 99.5 percent of cases, outpatient treatment was satisfactory. Specific symptoms associated with variants included ageusia and anosmia in patients with Delta infections and throat pain in Omicron infections. Among Delta-infected individuals with specific symptoms, significantly higher levels of anti-N antibodies were observed. Conclusion: Our study identified variant-specific differences in the amount of SARS-CoV-2 antibody production and COVID-19 symptoms. Despite this, vaccinated individuals with Omicron or Delta infections generally experienced mild disease courses. Additionally, asymptomatic individuals exhibit lower anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels, indicating a clinical correlation between disease-specific antibodies and distinct symptoms, particularly in the case of the Delta variant. In follow-up studies, exploring post-COVID syndrome and focusing on cognitive symptoms in the acute phase of Omicron infections is crucial as it has the potential to longitudinally impact the lives of those affected.
Experimental Study on Scouring and Silting and Channel Planning Based on the Entrance Area of Shenqiu Wharf
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wang Xiangqiao , Yang Yuwen , Chen Bo
Published: February 2024

China has a vast territory and a long history of inland navigation. This paper is based on the Shaying River Shenqiu hub project, and a normal physical model with a geometric scale of 65 was established to simulate the characteristics of water and sediment in the entrance area of the project. By setting different working conditions and measuring and analyzing the velocity flow pattern of the wharf area, planning suggestions for the artificial channel with straight cut-off can be given. Simultaneously, the study simulates the natural sediment deposition state in typical years, observing changes in terrain and evaluating their impact on navigation, thereby validating the rationality of scouring and desilting processes. The research findings indicate that in the reconstructed river wharf’s entrance area, the flow velocity is low, and the flow pattern is stable, ensuring that the transverse flow velocities along the recommended route meet the requirements for vessel navigation. Post-scouring from the regulating gate discharge, downstream deposition decreases, with a sediment flushing efficiency reaching 68.5%. Under the specified conditions, the thickness of sediment deposition after scouring does not negatively affect the water level for ships entering or departing the wharf. The results of this study may offer valuable reference insights for the planning of artificial rivers in similar terrains.
A formação do administrador no Brasil: competências e habilidades
Authors: Kuazaqui Edmir
Published: February 2024

O presente estudo objetivou pesquisar as principais habilidades e competências necessárias para a formação do Administrador no Brasil. A história da Administração está embasada nos princípios históricos dos trabalhos de Taylor, Fayol e seus seguidores. O aprofundamento dos estudos gerou vários momentos que deram origem às Escolas da Administração e que definiram as funções, que são: planejar organizar, comandar e controlar, existentes seja na área pública, seja na privada, vigentes até hoje. Para o desenvolvimento dessas funções, há necessidade do conhecimento de habilidades e competências, capacidade que o administrador necessita para desenvolver suas atividades, associando a teoria à prática profissional. A proposta dos cursos de Administração tem a finalidade de formar profissionais aptos para atuarem em mercados competitivos e em constantes mudanças. Possui a característica de desenvolver técnicas, práticas vivenciadas, flexibilidade, além de desenvolver o espírito empreendedor do aluno. Portanto, as habilidades estão presentes nas áreas de Administração como ferramentas necessárias para o desenvolvimento das lideranças, associadas às competências necessárias para o processo de tomada de decisão. A pesquisa foi embasada na literatura disponível, nas competências e habilidades profissionais instituídas pelo Ministério da Educação do Brasil para os cursos de Administração e as legislações Conselho Federal de Administração (CFA). A metodologia teve seu foco descritivo e exploratório, utilizando-se pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. A legislação que deu origem à profissão do Administrador foi estudada, buscando-se no Conselho Federal de Administração do Brasil os elementos necessários para embasar o estudo. Concluiu-se que os órgãos fiscalizadores (Conselho Federal e Conselhos Regionais) necessitam acompanhar as avaliações do Ministério da Educação com maior empenho, a fim de verificar como as habilidades e competências instituídas estão sendo adequadas às diretrizes dos cursos de Administração.
Reflexão sobre o papel da gestão escolar em parceria com a familia
Authors: De Oliveira Jaqueline Gilvanda , De Oliveira Rafaela Gilvanda , De Oliveira Gabriela Gilvanda
Published: February 2024

A escola é formada por vários fatores constituintes e colaboradores, seja da estrutura seja da funcionalidade dessa instituição. O trabalho a seguir faz uma reflexão sobre o papel da gestão escolar em parceria com a família, com o intuito de reforçar uma aproximação entre família e escola para garantir uma aprendizagem aos alunos mais eficaz. Refletimos sobre a definição e importância da gestão democrática, observando como é esse trabalho diante do processo educacional, identificando seus componentes de acordo com cada grupo que compõe e destacando suas funções. Com base na relevância dessa parceria, buscamos compreender os desafios enfrentados para que essa relação ocorra de forma ativa, e o principal empecilho acontece por conta do distanciamento entre a família e a gestão escolar, essa distância e falta de comunicação em prol da melhoria do ensino-aprendizagem, resulta em muitos prejuízos que precisam ser sanados ou minimizados. As novas tecnologias surgem como forma de aproximar e diminuir essa distância entre esses dois atores do processo de ensino-aprendizagem. Essa pesquisa fundamentou-se nos estudos de Luck (2009), e Libâneo (2004), os quais discutem sobre a importância da participação da família e escola no processo de desenvolvimento escolar dos alunos. Realizamos uma pesquisa de caráter bibliográfico de cunho qualitativo.
Identificação e caracterização morfocultural de patógenos causadores de doenças foliares em mudas de açaizeiro provenientes de Moju/PA
Authors: Guimarães Jandson José do Vale , Da Silva Gleiciane Pires , Olinda Douglas Rodrigues , Alves Kézia Ferreira
Published: February 2024

O açaizeiro é uma palmácea típica da Amazônia, de grande relevância econômica e cultural para a região. Devido à valorização e o aumento significativo na demanda pelo fruto, o mercado de açaí tem passado por mudanças estruturais nos últimos anos. Esse fato é passível de reflexão, uma vez que processos de expansão e produção desordenados podem levar a danos desastrosos causados por doenças. Com isso, esta pesquisa objetivou a identificação e caracterização morfocultural dos agentes causais da antracnose e mancha foliar em mudas de açaizeiro provenientes do município de MOJU/PA, como uma das partes necessárias para adoção de medidas de controle e/ou manejo. Utilizou-se o material vegetal com manchas foliares e antracnose proveniente do município de Moju/PA, o qual foi submetido às etapas de isolamento indireto, que consistiram em desinfestação superficial das amostras, segmentação da área lesionada próximo à borda do sintoma necrótico e deposição dos fragmentos em AA, depois em BDA, finalizando em incubação na BOD até o período de esporulação dos isolados. A monocultura consistiu na transferência asséptica de ponta hifal para meio BDA. Os testes de patogenicidade, em mudas de açaí, comprovaram a patogenicidade dos isolados. A microcultura consistiu no cultivo dos isolados em lâminas de microscopia e, a partir dela, fez-se a caracterização micromorfológica, enquanto a caracterização macromorfológica deu-se por meio da monocultura. Com base nos sintomas e em características morfoculturais, identificou-se os fungos Colletotrichum sp. e Bipolaris sp. Em relação à sintomatologia, Colletotrichum induziu sintoma de antracnose e Bipolaris induziu sintoma de mancha foliar com zona central esbranquiçada. Na caracterização morfocultural, Colletotrichum apresentou duas colônias culturalmente diversificadas, que possibilitou a sua divisão em ISO1 e ISO2, e, na análise micromorfológica, apresentou conidióforos simples, curtos ou alongados, hialinos a marrons, e com septos apenas na base; células conidiogênicas fialídicas e hialinas; conídios fialóporos, unicelulares, solitários, acróginos, retos, cilíndricos ou fusoides, levemente curvados, hialinos, asseptados, frequentemente gutulados e sem apêndices; apressórios escuros e morfologicamente diversificados. O isolado Bipolaris apresentou colônias com crescimento micelial aéreo; textura cotonosa; conídios porósporos, septados, fusoides a largamente elípticos, os quais variaram entre a cor marrom-claro e marrom-escuro, com hilo escuro e pouco protuberante. A partir disso, foram identificados os gêneros Colletotrichum sp., o qual apresentou-se diferenças culturais entre os isolados, e Bipolaris sp. Este é o primeiro relato desses isolados em plantas de açaizeiro no município de Moju/PA e a primeira constatação da associação entre ambos na cultura, no Brasil.
Prática pedagógica dos egressos: entre a formação nos PPGS da UFPA e a ação docente no chão da escola
Authors: Da Silva José Bittencourt , Nascimento Glaice da Silva
Published: February 2024

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar as produções acadêmicas que abordam a Educação Ambiental na Amazônia paraense, decorrentes da formação continuada dos Programas de Pós-Graduação, assim como as práticas pedagógicas de seus egressos no âmbito da Educação Básica. A questão de pesquisa é a seguinte: a formação oferecida pelos programas de pós-graduação (PPGs) stricto sensu na Amazônia, em particular na UFPA, tem o potencial de fortalecer práticas pedagógicas na Educação Básica, contribuindo com a superação da visão despolitizada, acrítica, ingênua e naturalista ainda muito presente na nas instituições de ensino paraenses? Para responder a esta indagação, realizamos qualitativamente uma pesquisa documental, com realização de análise de conteúdo a partir de 15 dissertações de mestrado sobre a temática em tela. Os resultados obtidos por meio do levantamento realizado nas unidades formativas da Região Metropolitana de Belém, haja vista que, no levantamento preliminar realizado nos PPGs das universidades e centros formativos privados e públicos, verificou-se que a UFPA possuía produção intelectual pertinente para a construção do corpus da pesquisa. Conclui-se que a relevância do estudo para o tema da Educação Básica e da Educação Ambiental na Amazônia está em mapear o que tem sido pesquisado e produzido no campo formativo de professores e os impactos nas práticas pedagógicas na escola básica e, consequentemente, a sua contribuição para o desenvolvimento educacional na Amazônia Paraense.
Avaliação da aplicabilidade da impressão de peças anatômicas em 3D e seu uso no curso de medicina veterinária do IFRO - campus Jaru
Authors: Campeiro Junior Luiz Donizete , Magalhães Joice Aline Neves do Nascimento , Gomes Reginaldo Lima , Dos Santos Jomel Francisco , Galeazzi Amábile Maria , Da Silva Lidia Souza , Roveda Lucas Martins , Osowski Alini
Published: February 2024

O estudo dos ossos é utilizado para a aquisição de conhecimento teórico e prático entre as diferentes espécies, a tecnologia 3D é um recurso facilitador e alternativo dentro da sala de aula, sendo de fácil aquisição e manutenção. O propósito da realização deste projeto foi apresentar aos alunos do curso de Medicina Veterinária, peças anatômicas de ossos de cães e gatos confeccionados a partir da tecnologia impressão 3D. Com o objetivo de apoio para estudos na área de anatomia animal enriquecendo a qualidade do ensino. O projeto foi realizado no Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de Rondônia (IFRO) - Campus Jaru, utilizou-se arquivos de imagens no formato STL, onde para a renderização da imagem foi utilizado o softwares Slicer, a impressão das peças foi realizada em duas impressoras 3D utilizando filamento PLA para a impressão, em técnica tridimensional com o processamento de luz digital.  Foram realizadas atividades didáticas e exposições em feiras, congressos e seminários, obtendo resultados positivos e promissores. É uma iniciativa inovadora e extremamente benéfica, para que os estudantes de medicina veterinária possam ter uma compreensão mais profunda e precisa da anatomia animal, uma vez que a aquisição de peças cadavéricas está cada vez mais escassa. Ao todo foram impressos cerca de 20 peças de ossos, sendo essas: membros torácicos, pélvicos, ossos do crânio e vértebras. Portanto a tecnologia 3D é uma inovação benéfica para os estudantes de medicina veterinária, pois proporciona um entendimento mais preciso da anatomia animal. Essa precisão pode levar a diagnósticos mais acertivos e tratamentos mais eficazes, revolucionando o ensino da medicina veterinária e melhorando a qualidade do cuidado com os animais pelos futuros profissionais.
The place of the state regulatory system of the agricultural sector in ensuring sustainable development
Authors: Datsii Nadiya , Antonova Liudmyla , Dragan Ivan
Published: February 2024

This article is devoted to the study of the characteristic features of the system of state regulation of the agrarian sector and determining its place in ensuring sustainable development. Based on the analysis, it was established that the current system of state regulation of the agricultural sector in Ukraine includes a number of subjects that have influence based on their authority (public authorities of various levels), as well as those that influence indirectly (the public sector). These subjects directly or indirectly affect the agricultural sector of the economy through a number of means of influence (organizational, financial and economic, normative and legal and advisory or scientific and methodological). It was determined that among the priority goals of state regulation should be, first of all, the promotion of the gradual comprehensive growth of the country's economy, productive employment, which covers the largest possible number of working population, as well as decent working conditions for all. It is noted that the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in today's conditions is impossible without guaranteeing environmental safety, which is considered one of the key components of national security. In order to ensure a stable ecological situation in agro-industrial production, it is important to create, implement, and most importantly - finance targeted programs aimed at this at the state and regional levels. It has been proven that one of the key components of a modern effective system of state regulation of the agrarian sector is support for digital transformation in the agrarian sector. Digitization involves the use of technologies that include the application of advanced achievements in combination with the Internet for the global restructuring of agriculture. It was concluded that one of the directions for the fulfillment of these tasks can be the support of the clustering of the agricultural sector. The government's cluster approach to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector makes it possible to maintain a positive synergistic effect and reduce the impact of negative factors even with minimal state funding. It promotes inter-branch interaction, coordination of economic interests of subjects of agricultural production.
The Understanding of Fentanyl Addiction in Women
Authors:   Catholic Institute of Bioethics, Song Kyeong Wha
Published: February 2024

This study examines the increasingly complex situation of fentanyl addiction. It analyzes the distinct characteristics of fentanyl, such as its potent analgesic effects and affinity for μ-opioid receptors, which set it apart from other opioid analgesics. Furthermore, the study discusses the rapid onset of action and lipophilicity of fentanyl in the context of efficacy and overdose potential. Meanwhile, it highlights the biological and clinical characteristics that differentiate the addiction experience of women and connects these with sociocultural dimensions, thereby emphasizing the need for gender-specific addiction treatment and support mechanisms. This research advocates for a more sophisticated approach to drug policy and intervention strategies that accommodate the biological, psychological, and social complexities faced by women addicted to fentanyl, ultimately arguing for a multilayered strategy to address the issue of fentanyl misuse.