bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Small Airway Physiology Measured by Impulse Oscillometry in Subjects with Allergic Asthma Following Methacholine and Inhaled Allergen Challenge
Authors: Stenberg Henning , Chan Rory , Abd-Elaziz Khalid , Pelgröm Arjen , Lammering Karin , Kuijper-De Haan Gerda , Weersink Els , Lutter René , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , de Jongh Frans , Diamant Zuzana
Published: January 2025

Background: Small airway dysfunction (SAD) is associated with impaired asthma control, but small airway physiology is not routinely assessed in clinical practice. Previously, we demonstrated impulse oscillometry (IOS)-defined small airway dysfunction (SAD) in dual responders (DRs) upon bronchoprovocation with various allergens. Aim: To compare lung physiology using spirometry and IOS following bronchoprovocation with methacholine (M) and inhaled house dust mite (HDM) extract in corticosteroid-naïve asthmatic subjects. Methods: Non-smoking, clinically stable HDM-allergic asthmatic subjects (18–55 years, FEV1 > 70% of pred.) underwent an M and inhaled HDM challenge on two separate days. Airway response was measured by IOS and spirometry, until a drop in FEV1 ≥ 20% (PC20) from post-diluent baseline (M), and up to 8 h post-allergen (HDM). Early (EAR) and late asthmatic response (LAR) to HDM were defined as ≥20% and ≥15% fall in FEV1 from post-diluent baseline during 0–3 h and 3–8 h post-challenge, respectively. IOS parameters (Rrs5, Rrs20, Rrs5-20, Xrs5, AX, Fres) were compared between mono-responders (MRs: EAR only) and dual responders (EAR + LAR). Correlations between maximal % change from baseline after the two airway challenges were calculated for both FEV1 and IOS parameters. Results: A total of 47 subjects were included (11 MRs; 36 DRs). FEV1 % predicted did not differ between MR and DR at baseline, but DR had lower median PC20M (0.84 (range 0.07–7.51) vs. MR (2.15 (0.53–11.29)); p = 0.036). During the LAR, DRs had higher IOS values than MRs. For IOS parameters (but not for FEV1), the maximal % change from baseline following M and HDM challenge were correlated. PC20M was inversely correlated with the % change in FEV1 and the % change in Xrs5 during the LAR (r= −0.443; p = 0.0018 and r= −0.389; p = 0.0075, respectively). Conclusions: During HDM-induced LAR, changes in small airway physiology can be non-invasively detected with IOS and are associated with increased airway hyperresponsiveness and changes in small airway physiology during methacholine challenge. DRs have a small airways phenotype, which reflects a more advanced airway disease.
Hypothyroidism After Hemithyroidectomy: A Retrospective Analysis of Temporal Trends and Key Risk Factors
Authors: Safia Alaa , Shehadeh Rabie , Sharabi-Nov Adi , Avraham Yaniv , Ronen Ohad , Merchavy Shlomo
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Post-hemithyroidectomy hypothyroidism is a recognized complication, though its incidence and risk factors remain variably reported. This study aimed to determine the incidence of hypothyroidism post-hemithyroidectomy, identify associated risk factors, and assess temporal changes in thyroid hormone levels. Methods: This retrospective analysis examined the records of 192 euthyroid patients who underwent hemithyroidectomy between January 2019 and May 2023. Thyroid function was assessed preoperatively and at 1, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to evaluate the time to hypothyroidism onset and identify significant predictors. Results: At 1 month postoperatively, a higher incidence was observed in elderly patients (>65 years; 31.11%) and those aged 56–65 years (29.54%), compared to younger age groups (7.69% in patients aged 18–35 years). The incidence decreased over time, with 14.06% and 10.94% of patients being hypothyroid at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Severe obesity was associated with the highest hypothyroidism rates across all follow-up periods, particularly at 1 month (50.00%). Elevated BMI was also associated with increased risk, particularly in overweight patients (HR = 2.368, 95% CI 1.016–5.523). Patients undergoing left-sided hemithyroidectomy had a higher incidence of hypothyroidism at 12 months compared to right-sided hemithyroidectomy patients (15.63% vs. 6.25%, p = 0.037). Cox regression analysis confirmed diabetes and BMI (overweight) as significant predictors of hypothyroidism. Conclusions: Hypothyroidism is a common complication following hemithyroidectomy, particularly in elderly and overweight patients. The significant early onset of thyroid dysfunction underscores the need for routine postoperative monitoring, especially within the first year.
Correlation Between Soft Magnetic Properties and Microstructure According to Heat Treatment in FeCo-2V Electrical Steel
Authors: Lee Harang , Park Jihye , Lee Hyunkyung , Choi-Yim Haein
Published: January 2025

Fe-Co alloy has the highest saturation magnetic flux density among soft magnetic materials, and Fe50Co50 has the maximum permeability of Fe-Co alloys. However, Fe-Co alloy is difficult to use in applications due to its brittleness. Various attempts have been made to improve its mechanical properties for applications, but its magnetic properties have not been retained. This research focuses on improving the magnetic properties of Fe-Co electrical steels at various heat treatment temperatures with the addition of 2 at.% vanadium. To reveal the ordered body-centered cubic phase, which has good soft magnetic properties, the thermal properties of the steels were investigated with differential scanning calorimetry. The microstructure of the electrical steels after heat treatment was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, and the tendencies of their magnetic properties, measured by a DC B-H loop tracer and a vibrating sample magnetometer, were explored in connection with the microstructure. The decrease in coercivity up to 800 °C was due to stress relief and grain growth, and its increase at 850 °C is believed to be due to the pinning effect of the V-rich phase in the grain boundary. The optimal heat treatment temperature was found to be 800 °C because the steel had reasonable magnetic saturation (2.28 T) and hysteresis loss (0.47 W/kg), the highest magnetic flux density at 5000 A/m, and the lowest coercivity (56.7 A/m).
A Supply and Demand Framework for Bitcoin Price Forecasting
Authors: Rudd Murray A. , Porter Dennis
Published: January 2025

We develop a flexible supply and demand equilibrium framework that can be used to develop pricing models to forecast Bitcoin’s price trajectory based on its fixed, inelastic supply and evolving demand dynamics. This approach integrates Bitcoin’s unique monetary attributes with demand drivers such as institutional adoption and long-term holding patterns. Using the April 2024 halving as a baseline, we explore model scenarios with varying assumptions about growth in adoption and supply-side constraints, calibrated to real-world data. Our findings indicate that institutional and sovereign accumulation can significantly influence price trajectories, with increasing demand intensifying the impact of Bitcoin’s constrained liquidity. Forecasts suggest that modest withdrawals from liquid supply to strategic reserves could lead to substantial price appreciation over the medium term, while higher withdrawal levels may induce volatility due to supply scarcity. These results highlight Bitcoin’s potential as a long-term investment and underline the importance of integrating economic fundamentals into forward-looking portfolio strategies. Our framework provides flexibility for testing different market scenarios, demand curve functional forms, and parameterizations, offering a tool for investors and policymakers considering Bitcoin’s role as a strategic asset. By advancing a fundamentals-based approach, this study contributes to the broader understanding of how Bitcoin’s supply–demand dynamics influence market behavior.
The Influence of Basil and Cinnamon Essential Oils on Bioactive Sponge Composites of Collagen Reinforced with Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Robu Alina , Kaya Madalina Georgiana Albu , Antoniac Aurora , Kaya Durmuș Alpaslan , Coman Alina Elena , Marin Maria-Minodora , Ciocoiu Robert , Constantinescu Rodica Roxana , Antoniac Iulian
Published: January 2025

The increasing prevalence of acute traumas, surgical wounds, and chronic skin wounds poses significant therapeutic challenges for wound treatment. One of the main concerns in wound care is the danger of infection, which is a significant barrier to healing and a cause of higher morbidity and mortality rates. The emergence of drug-resistant bacterial species is becoming more frequent every day. Antimicrobial dressings have become a viable strategy for wound healing and hospital expense savings. Several factors, such as the wound’s localization and state, microbial load, and cost, must be considered when choosing an appropriate antimicrobial dressing. One of the key goals of wound care is infection avoidance. This study addresses the therapeutic challenges of acute traumas, surgical wounds, and chronic skin wounds, focusing on infection prevention and combating drug-resistant bacterial strains. The research explores the development of novel composite wound dressings incorporating hydroxyapatite, known for its osteoconductive properties, and essential oils from basil and cinnamon, recognized for their antimicrobial activity. The study evaluates the impact of these additives on key properties such as surface morphology, water absorption, enzymatic degradation, and mechanical performance. Antimicrobial tests showed that two experimental samples (A1S and A1BS) exhibited significant activity against Escherichia coli but not on Staphylococcus aureus. The results highlight the dressings’ enhanced antimicrobial properties, mechanical strength, and controlled degradation, making them promising candidates for advanced wound healing. Tailored applications were identified, with each dressing composition offering unique benefits for specific wound-healing scenarios based on the balance between flexibility, structural support, and bioactivity.
Modeling and Analysis of Vibration Coupling in Differential Common-Based MEMS Resonators
Authors: Zhang Jing , Yang Zhuo , Wu Tianhao , Yao Zhichao , Lin Chen , Su Yan
Published: January 2025

In differential MEMS resonant sensors, a pair of resonators are interconnected with other structural components while sharing a common substrate. This leads to mutual coupling of vibration energy between resonators, interfering with their frequency outputs and affecting the sensor’s static performance. This paper aims to model and analyze the vibration coupling phenomena in differential common-based MEMS resonators (DCMR). A mechanical model of the DCMR structure was established and refined through finite element simulation analysis. Theoretical calculations yielded vibration coupling curves for two typical silicon resonant accelerometer (SRA) structures containing DCMR: SRA-V1 and SRA-V2, with coupling stiffness values of 2.361 × 10−4 N/m and 1.370 × 10−2 N/m, respectively. An experimental test system was constructed to characterize the vibration coupling behavior. The results provided coupling amplitude-frequency characteristic curves and coupling stiffness values (7.073 × 10−4 N/m and 1.068 × 10−2 N/m for SRA-V1 and SRA-V2, respectively) that validated the theoretical analysis and computational model. This novel approach enables effective evaluation of coupling intensity between 5resonators and provides a theoretical foundation for optimizing device structural designs.
Wolbachia Infection Alters the Microbiota of the Invasive Leaf-Miner Liriomyza huidobrensis (Diptera: Agromyzidae)
Authors: Duan Ya-Xin , Zhuang Ying-Hua , Wu Yu-Xin , Huang Tian-Wei , Song Zhang-Rong , Du Yu-Zhou , Zhu Yu-Xi
Published: January 2025

Microbe–microbe interactions within a host drive shifts in the host’s microbiota composition, profoundly influencing host physiology, ecology, and evolution. Among these microbes, the maternally inherited endosymbiont Wolbachia is widespread in the invasive pest Liriomyza huidorbrensis (Diptera: Agromyzidae). However, its influence on the host microbiota remains largely unexplored. In the study presented herein, we investigated the bacterial communities of Wolbachia wLhui-infected (wLhui+) and -uninfected lines (wLhui−) of L. huidorbrensis using 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing. For both leaf-miner lines, Bacteroidota was the dominant phylum (relative abundance: 59.18%), followed by Pseudomonadota (36.63%), Actinomycetota (2.42%), and Bacillota (0.93%). We found no significant differences in alpha-diversity indices between the wLhui+ and wLhui− lines (p > 0.05). However, principal coordinates analysis revealed significant differences in microbiota composition between the wLhui+ and wLhui− lines (PERMANOVA: p < 0.001), explaining 76.70% of the variance in microbiota composition. Correlation network analysis identified robust negative and positive associations between Wolbachia and several genera, suggesting that Wolbachia shapes microbial composition through competitive or cooperative interactions with specific taxa. Overall, our study suggests that Wolbachia plays a key role in shaping the leaf-miner microbiome, potentially affecting host fitness.
Slag Substitution Effect on Features of Alkali-Free Accelerator-Reinforced Cemented Paste Backfill
Authors: Cavusoglu Ibrahim
Published: January 2025

Cemented paste backfill (CPB) improves underground stability by filling mine voids, but the high cost of cement presents economic challenges for miners. While alternative binders and admixtures have been explored, the combined impact of slag substitution and alkali-free (AF) accelerators on CPB performance is not yet fully understood. This study investigates the influences of slag substitution and AF accelerators on the performance of CPB through a comprehensive experimental approach. CPB samples were prepared with slag substitution ratios of 25%, 50%, and 75%, maintaining a fixed AF accelerator content of 0.4%. Various test techniques, including unconfined comprehensive strength (UCS), mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal analysis (TG/DTA), were employed to study their mechanical and microstructural properties. Monitoring tests were also conducted to thoroughly assess the performance of CPB, including suction (self-desiccation), electrical conductivity (EC), and volumetric water content (VWC) tests. The results showed that the PCI50–SL50–0.4AF sample exhibited 2.3 times higher strength than the control sample for 28 days, with this improvement attributed to enhanced pozzolanic reactions contributing to better microstructural compactness. Monitoring tests revealed accelerated hydration kinetics and reduced water content in slag-reinforced CPB, highlighting the significant role of AF accelerator in facilitating rapid setting and improving early-age mechanical strength. Microstructural findings revealed that porosity decreased and C–S–H gel formation increased in the specimen containing slag and AF accelerators, contributing to increased strength and durability. These findings highlight the potential usage of slag and AF accelerators to enhance CPB’s mechanical, microstructural, and hydration properties, offering significant benefits for mining operations by improving backfill performance, while contributing to environmental sustainability through reduced cement consumption and associated CO2 emissions.
Using Healthcare Redesign to Identify Medication Management Issues in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Williams Susan , Iannuzzi Marissa A. , Prior Sarah J.
Published: January 2025

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that is predominantly controlled through pharmacotherapy. People with PD have highly complex medication regimens that are often poorly managed during hospital admissions. This project aims to understand the issues experienced by patients with PD and healthcare staff that impacted their medication management during their hospital admission at a tertiary metropolitan hospital in New South Wales, Australia. Methods: This project focuses on the mixed-methods diagnostics phase of the healthcare redesign approach to health service improvement, utilising organisational data, online surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Results: The findings from this project highlight key areas to address to improve the medication management of patients with PD admitted to hospital. The organisational data (n = 222) showed that the identification of PD patients, untimely medication reviews, prescribing errors, and untimely medication administration all contributed to poor patient experience. The staff surveys (n = 81) highlighted that a lack of knowledge of PD medications and poor patient identification impacted patient experience. The patient surveys (n = 18) and patient interviews (n = 16) suggested that confidence around medication management and administration timing could be improved. Conclusions: Poor PD medication management in hospital impacts the patient experience and should be improved to ensure better outcomes for patients and the health services.
MicroRNAs in Plant Genetic Regulation of Drought Tolerance and Their Function in Enhancing Stress Adaptation
Authors: Zhakypbek Yryszhan , Belkozhayev Ayaz M. , Kerimkulova Aygul , Kossalbayev Bekzhan D. , Murat Toktar , Tursbekov Serik , Turysbekova Gaukhar , Tursunova Alnura , Tastambek Kuanysh T. , Allakhverdiev Suleyman I.
Published: January 2025

Adverse environmental conditions, including drought stress, pose a significant threat to plant survival and agricultural productivity, necessitating innovative and efficient approaches to enhance their resilience. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are recognized as key elements in regulating plant adaptation to drought stress, with a notable ability to modulate various physiological and molecular mechanisms. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the role of miRNAs in drought response mechanisms, including abscisic acid (ABA) signaling, reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification, and the optimization of root system architecture. Additionally, it examines the effectiveness of bioinformatics tools, such as those employed in in silico analyses, for studying miRNA-mRNA interactions, as well as the potential for their integration with experimental methods. Advanced methods such as microarray analysis, high-throughput sequencing (HTS), and RACE-PCR are discussed for their contributions to miRNA target identification and validation. Moreover, new data and perspectives are presented on the role of miRNAs in plant responses to abiotic stresses, particularly drought adaptation. This review aims to deepen the understanding of genetic regulatory mechanisms in plants and to establish a robust scientific foundation for the development of drought-tolerant crop varieties.
3D Porous Polycaprolactone with Chitosan-Graft-PCL Modified Surface for In Situ Tissue Engineering
Authors: Pitts Johannes , Hänsch Robert , Roger Yvonne , Hoffmann Andrea , Menzel Henning
Published: January 2025

Tissue engineering has emerged as a promising approach for improved regeneration of native tissue and could increase the quality of life of many patients. However, the treatment of injured tissue transitions is still in its early stages, relying primarily on a purely physical approach in medical surgery. A biodegradable implant with a modified surface that is capable of biological active protein delivery via a nanoparticulate release system could advance the field of musculoskeletal disorder treatments enormously. In this study, interconnected 3D macroporous scaffolds based on Polycaprolactone (PCL) were fabricated in a successive process of blending, annealing and leaching. Blending with varying parts of Polyethylene oxide (PEO), NaCl and (powdered) sucrose and altering processing conditions yielded scaffolds with a huge variety of morphologies. The resulting unmodified hydrophobic scaffolds were modified using two graft polymers (CS-g-PCLx) with x = 29 and 56 (x = PCL units per chitosan unit). Due to the chitosan backbone hydrophilicity was increased and a platform for a versatile nanoparticulate release system was introduced. The graft polymers were synthesized via ring opening polymerization (ROP) of ε-Caprolactone using hydroxy groups of the chitosan backbone as initiators (grafting from). The suspected impact on biocompatibility of the modification was investigated by in vitro cell testing. In addition, the CS-g-PCL modification opened up the possibility of Layer by Layer (LbL) coating with alginate (ALG) and TGF-β3-loaded chitosan tripolyphosphate (CS-TGF-β3-TPP) nanoparticles. The subsequent release study showed promising amounts of growth factor released regarding successful in vitro cell differentiation and therefore could have a possible therapeutic impact.
Assessing the Relationship Between Production and Land Transformation for Chilean Copper Mines Using Satellite and Operational Data
Authors: Xiao Junbin , Werner Tim T. , Komai Takeshi , Matsubae Kazuyo
Published: January 2025

Mining may cause devastating environmental impacts through large-scale land transformations. However, mining-induced land transformations are poorly understood relative to a mine’s productivity or life cycle. We integrated satellite imagery, geographic information systems (GISs), and mine site production data (ore, concentration, and waste) to conduct a detailed spatiotemporal analysis of 15 open-pit copper mines in Chile, distinguishing six types of features. Although the occupied area (9.90 to 149.61 km2 in 2020) and composition vary across mines, facilities for waste storage occupy the largest proportion (>50%) of the transformed land area, emphasizing the need for proper waste management. The analysis of land transformation factors (the transformed land area per unit production) showed high variation (0.006178 to 0.372798 m2/kg-Cu) between mines over time. This reveals a significant problem in the historical practice of using averages from life cycle assessment (LCA) databases. This research reveals the significance of geospatial analyses in assessing mining-induced land transformation, and it provides geospatial data for land-related LCA. Mining companies are encouraged to disclose GIS information regarding land transformation to foster transparency and social responsibility, as well as to promote responsible and sustainable mining.
Assessing Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Net Primary Productivity in Shandong Province, China (2001–2020) Using the CASA Model and Google Earth Engine: Trends, Patterns, and Driving Factors
Authors: Dong Dejin , Zhang Ruhan , Guo Wei , Gong Daohong , Zhao Ziliang , Zhou Yufeng , Xu Yang , Fujioka Yuichiro
Published: January 2025

Net primary productivity (NPP) is a core ecological indicator within terrestrial ecosystems, representing the potential of vegetation growth to offset anthropogenic carbon emissions. Thus, assessing NPP in a given region is crucial for promoting regional ecological restoration and sustainable development. This study utilized the CASA model and GEE to calculate the annual average NPP in Shandong Province (2001–2020). Through trend analysis, Moran’s Index, and PLS−SEM, the spatiotemporal evolution and driving factors of NPP were explored. The results show that: (1) From 2001 to 2020, NPP in Shandong showed an overall increasing trend, rising from 254.96 to 322.49 g C·m⁻2/year. This shift was accompanied by a gradual eastward movement of the NPP centroid, indicating significant spatial changes in vegetation productivity. (2) Regionally, 47.9% of Shandong experienced significant NPP improvement, 27.6% saw slight improvement, and 20.1% exhibited slight degradation, highlighting notable spatial heterogeneity. (3) Driver analysis showed that climatic factors positively influenced NPP across all four periods (2005, 2010, 2015, 2020), with the strongest impact in 2015 (coefficient = 0.643). Topographic factors such as elevation and slope also had positive effects, peaking at 0.304 in 2015. In contrast, human activities, especially GDP and nighttime light intensity, negatively impacted NPP, with the strongest negative effect in 2010 (coefficient = −0.567). These findings provide valuable scientific evidence for ecosystem management in Shandong Province and offer key insights for ecological restoration and sustainable development strategies at the national level.
Static Calibration of a New Three-Axis Fiber Bragg Grating-Based Optical Accelerometer
Authors: Perez-Alonzo Abraham , Alvarez-Icaza Luis , Sandoval-Romero Gabriel E.
Published: January 2025

Optical sensors are a promising technology in structural and health monitoring due to their high sensitivity and immunity to electromagnetic interference. Because of their high sensitivity, they can register the responses of buildings to a wide range of motions, including those induced by ambient noise, or detect small structural changes caused by aging or environmental factors. In previous work, an FBG-based accelerometer was introduced that is suitable for use as an autonomous unit since it does not make use of any interrogator equipment. In this paper, we present the results of the characterization of this device, which yielded the best precision and accuracy. The results show the following: (i) improvements in the orthogonality of the sensor axes, which impact their cross-axis sensitivity; (ii) reductions in the electronic noise, which increase the signal-to-noise ratio. The results of our static characterization show that, in the worst case, we can obtain a correlation coefficient R2 of 0.9999 when comparing the output voltage with the input acceleration for the X- and Y-axes of the sensor. We developed an analytical, non-iterative, 12-parameter matrix calibration approach based on the least-squares method, which allows compensation for different gains in its axes, offset, and cross-axis. To improve the accuracy of our sensor, we propose a table with correction terms that can be subtracted from the estimated acceleration. The mean error of each estimated acceleration component of the sensor is zero, with a maximum standard deviation of 0.018 m/s2. The maximum RMSE for all tested positions is 6.7 × 10−3 m/s2.
An Acoustic Underwater Glider for the Real-Time Transmission of Observation Data via an Underwater Acoustic Communication Modem
Authors: Zou Sichen , Sun Qindong
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces the development of an acoustic underwater glider integrated with an underwater acoustic modem designed to enable the real-time transmission of ocean observation data. The glider features three sequentially connected, independent compartments and is capable of operating at depths exceeding 1000 m. To ensure stable communication, two acoustic transducers are mounted at the rear of the glider and optimized to maintain a consistent energy radiation angle despite variations in the glider’s attitude. The acoustic modem, housed within one of the compartments, operates with a standby power consumption as low as 5 mW, significantly enhancing the overall energy efficiency of the system. To address the glider’s motion dynamics and the unique characteristics of the underwater acoustic channel, a multi-carrier frequency shift keying-based underwater acoustic communication scheme combined with a Stop-and-Wait Automatic Repeat Request protocol was designed and implemented. The system’s performance and reliability were validated through sea trials conducted in the South China Sea. The results demonstrated that the glider achieved reliable underwater acoustic communication over distances of up to 5 km. This research highlights the potential of the acoustic underwater glider for applications such as underwater acoustic measurements and distributed networking collaboration. The system holds significant promise for advancing underwater acoustic communication and ocean observation technologies.
Sustainable vs. Conventional Cleaning in Healthcare: Microbiological and Life Cycle Insights
Authors: Fontana Riccardo , Vogli Luciano , Buratto Mattia , Caproni Anna , Nordi Chiara , Pappadà Mariangela , Facchini Martina , Buffone Cesare , Bandera Beatrice , Marconi Peggy
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the environmental and microbiological effectiveness of two cleaning protocols—EVA (Ecological Visible Approach) and a traditional cleaning protocol—implemented in a healthcare setting. The cleaning procedures were conducted using specific equipment tailored to each protocol, with the EVA Protocol emphasizing sustainable practices. Microbiological evaluations assessed the effectiveness of each protocol in reducing microbial presence on various surfaces. The results demonstrated that the EVA Protocol not only met but often exceeded the microbiological standards achieved by the traditional protocol while significantly reducing the environmental footprint. The comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) highlighted the EVA Protocol’s ability to lower CO2 emissions by 31.5% compared to the traditional protocol. This study underscores the potential benefits of adopting sustainable cleaning practices in healthcare settings, contributing to both environmental preservation and effective infection control.
Energy and Exergy Analyses Applied to a Crop Plant System
Authors: Alzaben Heba , Fraser Roydon
Published: January 2025

The second law of thermodynamics investigates the quality of energy, or in other words exergy, described as the maximum useful to the dead-state work. The objective of this paper is to investigate the energy and exergy flows in a crop plant system in order to identify the dominant flows and parameters (e.g., temperature) affecting crop plant development. The need for energy and exergy analyses arises from the hypothesis that crop stress can be detected via surface temperature measurements, as explained by the exergy destruction principle (EDP). Based on the proposed energy model, it is observed that radiation and transpiration terms govern all other terms. In addition, as a result of exergy analysis, it is observed that solar exergy governs all input and output terms. The results obtained from this study support the hypothesis that crop surface temperature can be utilized as an indicator to detect crop stress.
Long-Term Immune Consequences of Initial SARS-CoV-2 A.23.1 Exposure: A Longitudinal Study of Antibody Responses and Cross-Neutralization in a Ugandan Cohort
Authors: Oluka Gerald Kevin , Sembera Jackson , Katende Joseph Ssebwana , Ankunda Violet , Kato Laban , Kurshan Ashwini , Graham Carl , Seow Jeffrey , Doores Katie J. , Malim Michael H. , Fox Julie M. , Kaleebu Pontiano , Serwanga Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Background: This study assessed the long-term dynamics of neutralizing antibodies in a Ugandan cohort primarily exposed to the A.23.1 SARS-CoV-2 variant, examining how this shaped immune breadth and potency against diverse strains following infection and prototype-based vaccination. Methods: We conducted a 427-day retrospective analysis of 41 participants across multiple SARS-CoV-2 waves, assessing binding and neutralizing antibody responses using in-house ELISA and pseudotyped virus neutralization assays. We quantified immune responses to key SARS-CoV-2 variants, A.23.1, D614G, Delta, and BA.4, capturing evolving immunity across the pandemic. Results: Neutralizing antibody titers against A.23.1 remained significantly higher than those against D614G, Delta, and BA.4, highlighting the solid immune memory following A.23.1 infection. Consistently lower titers were observed for BA.4 across all time points, aligning with its strong immune-evasion capability. Correlations between neutralizing titers and spike-directed IgG (S-IgG) concentrations were significantly stronger for A.23.1 than for D614G, with no correlation for BA.4. ChAdOx1-S vaccination substantially elevated the neutralizing titers across all variants, most notably BA.4, highlighting the essential role of vaccination in boosting immunity, even in individuals with initially low titers. Conclusions: Initial exposure to the A.23.1 variant triggered potent immune responses, shaping neutralizing antibody dynamics during subsequent exposures. These findings highlight the importance of accounting for early viral exposures in vaccine development and public health planning. The distinctly lower immune response to BA.4 highlights the need for continuous antigenic monitoring and timely vaccine updates for protection against emerging variants. Vaccination remains essential for reinforcing and sustaining immunity against evolving variants.
Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Porcine Parvovirus 2 in Southwest China During 2020–2023
Authors: Chen Hongyu , Qing Yi , Xu Lei , Zhu Ling , Yin Wenqi , Li Shuwei , Kuang Shengyao , Zhou Yuancheng , Xu Zhiwen
Published: January 2025

Porcine parvovirus (PPV) is a non-enveloped, single-stranded linear DNA virus that induces reproductive disorders in sows, particularly abortions in primiparous sows. This study investigated the prevalence of PPV in the southwestern region and conducted molecular characterization of PPV strains. An epidemiological survey was conducted on 1534 aborted fetuses from the southwestern region between 2020 and 2023, revealing an abortion rate of 3.00% due to PPV2, with the highest rate of 3.77% in Sichuan. Additionally, 2973 blood samples from sows were tested using ELISA, showing a PPV2 antibody positivity rate of 73.03% to 90%. Through shotgun metagenomics, PPV2 SC2020 was identified in aborted fetal samples from a pig farm in Pengzhou, Sichuan. PCR sequencing analysis yielded seven PPV2 genomic sequences, and the phylogenetic analysis of eight PPV2 strains with thirty reference strains showed distinct evolutionary branches. The virus was successfully isolated from PPV2-positive samples, and the phylogenetic analysis of PPV2 SC2020 revealed ORF1 gene homology of 94.9% to 99.3% and the ORF2 gene homology of 93.1% to 98.0%, with 34 reference strains. Homologous recombination analysis indicated that SC2020 is a recombinant strain of HeB03 and S1.
A Pilot Study on Mixed-Reality Approaches for Detecting Upper-Limb Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis: Insights on Cerebellar Tremor
Authors: Sabatino Etty , Moschetta Miriam , Lucaroni Andrea , Barresi Giacinto , Ferraresi Carlo , Podda Jessica , Grange Erica , Brichetto Giampaolo , Bucchieri Anna
Published: January 2025

The assessment and rehabilitation of upper-limb functionality are crucial for addressing motor disorders in individuals with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Traditional methods often lack the sensitivity to quantify subtle motor impairments, with cerebellar tremor diagnosis typically based on subjective visual inspections by clinicians. This study explored the feasibility of using Microsoft HoloLens2 for motion capture to assess upper-limb function in PwMS. Using the ROCKapp application, kinematic metrics such as movement quality and oculomotor coordination were recorded during pick-and-place tasks. Data from twelve healthy individuals served as benchmarks, while nine PwMS, including three with cerebellar tremor and one with ataxia, were tested to evaluate the tool’s diagnostic potential. Clustering algorithms applied to the kinematic data classified participants into distinct groups, showing that PwMS without cerebellar symptoms sometimes displayed behavior similar to healthy controls. However, those with cerebellar conditions, like tremor and ataxia, were more easily differentiated. While the HoloLens2 shows promise in detecting motor impairments, further refinement is required to improve sensitivity for those without overt cerebellar symptoms. Despite these challenges, this approach offers potential for personalized rehabilitation, providing detailed feedback that could improve interventions and enhance quality of life for PwMS. In conclusion, these findings highlight the potential of mixed-reality tools to refine diagnostic accuracy, suggesting future studies to validate their integration in clinical rehabilitation programs.
Le nom propre dans l’œuvre de Jean Sénac
Authors: Akir Hania
Published: January 2025

Our article aims at determining the particular role of proper nouns in the writings of Jean Senac, by a textual approach which rests primarily on the description of the operation of proper nouns, on three different levels : syntactic, stylistic and semantic. The permanent use of the proper name is a method of writing at Senac whose originality lies in the fact that it can’t do without the use of proper names. Senac proposes a literature which gives to the proper name a very particular function, which confirms the abundance of proper names in his work. This is related to his identity obsession manifested in writing by a quest for the proper name, that of his unknown father. In many respects, syntactic, stylistic, semantic and symbolic, the functioning of proper names demonstrates that they have very varied roles in the literature and that their analysis is not always systematic because the interpretive effects are different for the various contexts.
Quelques toponymes issus de la petite végétation arbustive en Champagne-Ardenne (suite et fin) : le sureau
Authors: Tamine Michel
Published: January 2025

This article puts an end to a series of studies devoted to the toponymy of small shrub vegetation in Champagne-Ardenne and is an extension of the one Jacques Chaurand proposed in 2000 (NRO 35-36) on the "name of the elderberry in the East Picardy area", which he analyzed as a "polyphony of dialectal and toponymic studies". In constant relation with the situation described by dialectologists, we sought to identify the toponymic continuities and ruptures between the East Picardy area and the Champagne-Ardenne region : the former are mainly ensured by simple words, while the latter are supported by constructed words, in particular derivatives that are distributed in coherent areas. Without neglecting the relationships between microtoponyms and major toponyms, the article underlines the great resistance that regional forms offer to the penetration of French, and outlines a reflection on the connections between dialectal areas and microtoponymic areas.
Le nom de baptême aux XVe et XVIe siècles. L’observatoire breton
Authors: Quémener Pierre-Yves
Published: January 2025

Cette thèse étudie la prénomination aux XVe et XVIe siècles en Bretagne, non pas tant pour réaliser une monographie sur cette région que pour élaborer systématiquement des corpus qui sont comparés ensuite à des données d’autres régions. La méthode comparative est utilisée en effet pour faire apparaître, par delà points communs et spécificités, des éléments d’explication : des intentions et des motifs. C’est en ce sens que la Bretagne est ici d’abord un observatoire. La thèse ambitionne ainsi de combler une lacune en tâchant d’approcher les motivations de la nomination. Les données bretonnes permettent de proposer une typologie des répertoires, d’analyser ceux-ci, et de mesurer leur évolution.
Maps in Context. Een webdatabank voor bronnen over oude kaarten en cartografen
Authors: Griffioen Marissa , Vannieuwenhuyze Bram , Misschaert Inge
Published: January 2025

Maps in Context is een doorzoekbare relationele webdatabank die het mogelijk maakt om gegevens over kaarten, cartografen en cartografische praktijken uit het verleden te registreren, te verbinden en op te sporen. Het project biedt een oplossing voor het probleem dat informatie over de context waarin oude kaarten zijn ontstaan en gebruikt, doorgaans niet (meer) bij die kaarten wordt bewaard. Met andere woorden, de verbanden tussen de kaarten enerzijds en de contextuele gegevens anderzijds zijn vaak verloren gegaan. Naast het herstellen van deze verbanden, is een algemenere doelstelling van het project om de vele gaten in de geschiedenis van de cartografie van de Lage Landen op te vullen, met name door informatie over minder bekende kaarten en cartografen te verzamelen en vindbaar te maken. Dit artikel licht de basisprincipes en functionaliteiten van de Maps in Context-webdatabank toe aan de hand van twee concrete voorbeelden : de zoektocht naar contextuele informatie over de handgetekende kaart van G. de Deken van de Heistendries in Landegem, die zich in privaat bezit bevindt, enerzijds en de analyse van een kaartenlijst van de Gentse verzamelaar Pierre-Jacques Goetghebuer (1788-1866) anderzijds.
Les décrets octroyant l’isotélie à Athènes aux Ve s.-IIIe s. av. notre ère
Authors: Flament Christophe
Published: January 2025

Cette étude tente de préciser les implications de l’isotélie à Athènes entre la fin du Ve s. et le milieu du IIIe s. aCn à travers l’examen de dix-neuf décrets se rapportant ou étant censés se rapporter à son octroi. On y passe dans un premier temps en revue la documentation rassemblée pour tenter de déterminer le profil des bénéficiaires de l’isotélie ainsi que les circonstances qui leur avaient valu cet octroi, et – surtout – si ces paramètres avaient évolué au fil du temps. Secundo, nous nous pencherons sur le contenu de ces inscriptions afin de préciser les contours de l’isotélie, en examinant notamment les qualités et vertus reconnues aux bénéficiaires, le formulaire d’octroi et son évolution, les indications visant à en limiter ou à en préciser la portée. L’un des principaux enjeux sera toutefois d’éclairer les relations entre l’isotélie et les autres privilèges fréquemment octroyés avec elle dans ces décrets athéniens, comme l’enktésis, ainsi que le droit de faire campagne ou de verser l’eisphora avec les citoyens. Fondamentalement, il s’agit ici de déterminer si ces privilèges s’ajoutaient à l’isotélie, ou bien s’ils en faisaient partie intégrante.
Devotus numini maiestatique eius. La formule de dévotion à la puissance divine et à la majesté de l’empereur en Dacie au IIIe siècle apr. J.-C.
Authors: Marchand Sébastien
Published: January 2025

Dans les hommages épigraphiques des IIIe et IVe siècles, la formule «dévoué à la puissance divine et à la majesté de celui-ci » est fréquemment utilisée pour exprimer la loyauté du dédicant envers l’empereur régnant. Malgré son importance, elle n’a plus retenu l’attention de la recherche depuis le milieu du siècle passé et l’étude de l’historien allemand Hans Georg Gundel. Le présent article propose donc de rouvrir ce champ d’investigation avec comme point de départ les inscriptions retrouvées dans la province de Dacie. Une analyse détaillée de ces textes – tous d’un caractère officiel et dans leur vaste majorité issus d’unités militaires – révèle qu’ils seraient liés aux agissements de l’empereur en faveur de la sécurité de la province.
Thētes epibatai in fifth-century Athens
Authors: Valdés Guía Miriam
Published: January 2025

In recent years the traditional view of thētes acting as epibatai in the Athenian fleet in fifth century BC has been strongly challenged by different authors. This issue is broached here by re-examining the ancient sources, as well as other factors like demography (especially in relation to the casualties of the Peloponnesian War) and forms of conscription. Deploying new arguments, it is suggested that some of the members of the census class of thētes might have customarily served as hoplites in the fifth-century Athenian navy, but that manpower shortages during the Peloponnesian War might have modified thfe way in which epibatai were conscripted.
Justiça restaurativa no combate à violência contra a mulher: a Patrulha Maria da Penha da Polícia Militar do Paraná
Authors: Almeida Victor Alisson de , Ramos Neto Wilson Gomes
Published: January 2025

Este artigo aborda a violência contra a mulher e a resposta jurisdicional tradicional, analisando o impacto das normativas punitivas, como a Lei Maria da Penha, em contraposição com a Justiça Restaurativa, uma alternativa transformadora. A violência doméstica é caracterizada por um ciclo de abuso físico, psicológico e emocional, e a legislação brasileira tem se concentrado em punir os agressores, abordagem esta que revelam limitações, como a revitimização da mulher e a ineficiência na transformação das dinâmicas de poder que sustentam a violência. Objetiva-se analisar a eficácia do sistema punitivo no combate à violência doméstica e explorar o potencial da Justiça Restaurativa. Em especial, busca-se avaliar as ações da Patrulha Maria da Penha do Estado do Paraná como práticas restaurativas. Para tanto, procedeu-se a uma análise qualitativa com revisão bibliográfica acerca do combate da violência contra a mulher, da Justiça Restaurativa e as formas de integração destas. Em adição, foi utilizado o método dedutivo para o desenvolvimento da pesquisa, partindo de conceitos gerais acerca do combate direto à violência doméstica, para então compreender a novas formas de extingui-la. O estudo conclui que a combinação de práticas restaurativas e ações policiais por meio da Patrulha Maria da Penha da Polícia Militar do Paraná pode proporcionar uma solução mais inclusiva e eficaz no combate à violência contra a mulher, ao integrar medidas de prevenção, acompanhamento da vítima e reflexão sobre o comportamento do agressor, promovendo, assim, a transformação das relações de poder e a proteção dos direitos das mulheres.
Uso de drogas entre estudantes de medicina no Brasil: um problema cada vez mais recorrente
Authors: Zaccarone Júnior Augusto Carlos , Lopes Ana Clara Ferreira , Souza Isabela Ferreira de , Modanez Larissa Alves , Gelaleti Rafael Bottaro
Published: January 2025

Diante das análises realizadas das literaturas determinadas, é observável intenso uso de drogas por estudantes universitários referentes ao curso de medicina, as quais incluem as de frente lícitas, ilícitas, psicoestimulantes e antidepressivos. O consumo tem por objetivo: aliviar o estresse vinculado à formação acadêmica, otimização dos estudos, assegurar momentos de vigília, relaxamento, dentre diversas circunstâncias presentes no cotidiano universitário. Este vigente artigo de revisão tem por finalidade apresentar o uso de drogas entre estudantes de medicina no Brasil. A apuração dos fatos foi realizada em artigos publicados nos últimos dez anos nas bases eletrônicas de dados: PubMed, BVS e LILACS, abrangendo um total de 13 publicações. Sendo as estratégias de contagem realizadas em faculdades de medicina, com estudantes do primeiro ano ao internato. O enfoque das investigações era voltado ao consumo de álcool, canabbis, tabaco e narguilé, e o uso de metilfenidato, sendo interrogado aos acadêmicos o fundamento para o emprego das substâncias e a frequência a qual é administrada. De maneira geral, foi relatada maior incidência no consumo de drogas ilícitas em estudantes do sexo masculino, não se fazendo excludente o número de ocorrência do sexo feminino. A reincidência do uso das diversas substâncias apresentou variação, sendo aqueles do primeiro ano do curso com menor frequência em relação aos demais. Sendo as substâncias mais utilizadas: álcool, tabaco, cannabis, psicoestimulantes e sedativos. Em término, por se tratar da formação acadêmica inserida na área da saúde, há contradição, ainda que os discentes estejam cientes dos riscos que se submetem.