bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Faience Pendant in the Form of the God Bes, Excavated at the Site Deraheib (Sudan)
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Krol Alexander A. , Tolmacheva Elena G. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Dmitrieva Yulia V. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University
Published: January 2025

In December 2018, in course of the second season of the Nubian archaeological and anthropological expedition of the Research Institute and the Museum of Anthropology of Moscow State University, a faience pendant in the form of the head/mask of the Ancient Egyptian god Bes (2018/001) was discovered at the site of Deraheib in the upper reaches of Wadi al-Allaqi (Republic of Sudan). This settlement, based on the archaeological data and evidence of the written sources, dates back to the Islamic Period (9th–12th centuries). Based on the similar objects stored in museum collections and discovered in the archaeological context, this find is dated somewhere between the Late Period and early Ptolemaic Dynasty. The article describes in detail and analyzes the circumstances of the discovery of Ancient Egyptian objects in course of the works of Centro Ricerche sul Deserto Orientale (CeRDO), which conducted excavations at the settlement of Deraheib in 1997–1999, and of the Lomonosov MSU Nubian expedition in 2018. A separate part of this article deals with the history of Ancient Egyptian goldmining in Wadi al-Allaqi region, and illustrates that Egyptian expeditions reached the inlands of the Nubian desert up to the upper reaches of the wadi where Deraheib is located. In conclusion a hypothesis is drawn as to how Ancient Egyptian objects may have ended up in the fill of quartz veins excavated beneath a house built during the Islamic period.
The Main Bozo and Bamana Puppets and the Sacrifice Ritual
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Zavyalova Olga Yu.
Published: January 2025

This article presents the description and meaning of some of the main bozo and baman marionettes, such as Yayoroba, Faro spirit, crocodile, hyena, buffalo and some others. The article
is based both on a publication in the Bamana language about the performances of traditional
bozo puppets, and on the testimonies and conversations with Yaya Koulibaly (January — February 2022, Mali). Like masks, puppets are associated with secret societies or secret alliances
that played a dominant role in the lives of the peoples of Mali and Guinea. The entire munden
society is rigidly structured, and the main governing force in it is precisely secret unions or
societies. Today, more and more puppets, as well as masks, go on public display at festivals.
Turning to traditional practices is a new way for Mali, which puts tradition at the service of
building society. Islam has not gone away, but it does not prevent Malians from leading a traditional way of life, which they are proud of, because this is where their values are traced, and this is how they are passed down from generation to generation. Bozo, bamana and Soninke have a lot of various types of puppets: from huge puppets — costumes for several people, to small stringed wooden puppets. They are animals, spirits and people. Their releases are timed to coincide with certain events and represent both closed events for only the initiated and large festivals. At such big holidays, the appearance of marionettes is accompanied by the songs. Some of these songs with translations are presented in the article.
The ontogenesis of the digital economy and the data economy: The concept of “intellectual hyperconnection in industry X.0”
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Lapidus Larisa V.
Published: January 2025

Purpose: to develop a holistic view of the complex cause-and-effect relationships between the identified transformational processes and phenomena based on the ontogenesis of the digital economy and the data economy.

Methodology: the author used the approach based on the matrix “Evolution of the digital economy and systemic digital transformation”, retrospective analysis, the method of included observation, the author’s own experience of business consulting, conducting foresight sessions, holding strategic sessions in large Russian and foreign corporations from 11 industries.

Findings: development of the concept of “Intellectual hyperconnection in the Industry X.0”.

Originality and contribution: the novelty of the work lies in building an academic approach to research the ontogenesis of the digital economy and the data economy. This study is the first to propose the “A-matrix for the formation of strategic decisions on digital transformation”, to construct the evolution of the data economy, to identify and describe its main stages. It concludes that the data economy is a component of the digital economy. Another significant result of the study is the concept of “Intellectual Hyperconnection in the Industry X.0”, as well as the revealed paradigm shift in data economics, which create a theoretical and methodological foundation for further research.
Five lessons about digital transformation from the CEOs of large companies
Authors:   International business school “Institut Européen d’Administration des Affaires”, Shekshnya Stanislav V. , Kravchenko Kirill A. ,   Gazprom Neft PJSC,   D. I. Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology,   Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas
Published: January 2025

Purpose: to identify the role of CEOs in the implementation of digital transformation, assess the experience of senior managers of several Russian companies and present the list of common practical recommendations (lessons) to implement digital transformation.

Methodology: еight Russian companies which implement digitalization and digital transformation of business were selected for the given study: Gazprom Neft PJSC, SIBUR PJSC, Severstal PJSC, NLMK PJSC, Ilim Group JSC, X5 Group (PJSC “Corporate Center X5”), AlfaStrakhovanie JSC and Raiffeisenbank СJSC. The data was collected through the interviews with the top-ranking company executives (CEOs), as well as through the literature review of the relevant Russian and international academic papers on the role of CEO in the digital transformation of a company.

Findings: the analysis of the interviews allowed to formulate five “lessons” that the CEOs considered during the digital transformation including deep immersion in digitalization issues, preparation of the conditions in the company to start the process, choosing technologies with the focus on the particular needs of the business, making the conditions for digital experts and confidence in conflict resolution. These lessons can be used by company managers involved in a similar process.

Originality and contribution: this is a first relevant broad study involving CEOs of the leading Russian companies from different businesses that offers a unique set of recommendations for implementing digital transformation in large businesses, which can be also applicable for many managers and entrepreneurs.
Easter Celebration: Troubles of the Soviet State (mid 1940s — mid 1980s)
Authors:   Kemerovo State University, Gorbatov A. V. ,   Altai State University
Published: January 2025

The research is based on documents from the State Archives of the Russian Federation, materials
from six archives of Western Siberia (Kemerovo, Novosibirsk, Tomsk, and Omsk regions), as well as on research
Criteria eligible for establishing reference concentrations of adverse chemicals under chronic inhalation exposure by extrapolation of the existing parameters
Authors:   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya St., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Shur P.Z. , Khasanova А.А. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya St., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation
Published: January 2025

Some chemicals emitted into ambient air do not have eligible parameters for assessing associated non-carcinogenic health risks under chronic inhalation exposure. Therefore, it is relevant to extend the list of reference concentrations (RfC), among other things, to perform health risk assessment within implementation of the Clean Air Federal Project. The same reference concentrations and critical organs and systems can be fixed for different compounds of the same chemical in accordance with the Guide R 2.1.10.3968-23. This makes it possible to establish non-identified RfC values by extrapolating the existing parameters from a donor to an acceptor.

The article suggests eligible criteria for establishing reference concentrations under chronic inhalation exposure by extrapolation of the existing parameters. They include identity of chemicals per selective toxicity towards target organs and / or systems upon chronic exposure, identical critical organs and systems, identical specific effects (sensitizing and mutagenic effects and reproductive toxicity) and similar physiochemical properties.

Use of extrapolation criteria allowed suggesting RfC of cadmium oxide equal to 2•10-5 mg/m3; cadmium was employed as a donor for extrapolation. Verification results confirmed that the conventionally substantiated RfC value was consistent with the value obtained by extrapolation. At the same time, we found that it was unacceptable to establish RfC of cadmium sulfate by extrapolation from cadmium since the former chemical was more toxic in accordance with the suggested criteria as regards its mutagenic effects and reproductive toxicity. In addition, its physiochemical properties were different from those of cadmium.
Assessment of potential microbial risk caused by spread of waterborne infectious diseases in a river area with intensive water use
Authors:   Southern Federal University, 105/42 Bol'shaya Sadovaya St., Rostov-on-Don, 344006, Russian Federation, Marchenko B.I. , Zhuravlev P.V. ,   Rostov Research Institute of Microbiology and Parasitology, 119 Gazetny Lane, Rostov-on-Don, 344000, Russian Federation, Deryabkina L.A. ,   Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology in Rostov Region, Taganrog Office, 16a Bol'shoi Av., Taganrog, 347930, Russian Federation, Nesterova O.A. ,   Southern Federal University, 105/42 Bol'shaya Sadovaya St., Rostov-on-Don, 344006, Russian Federation
Published: January 2025

The necessity to raise effectiveness of activities aimed at preventing spread of waterborne intestinal infections requires improvement of methods and technologies applied in sanitary-microbiological monitoring as a part of the system for sociohygienic monitoring.

The aim of this study was to assess dynamics of potential microbial risks caused by spread of waterborne acute intestinal infections in the Lower Don River area with intensive water use. Microbial communities in water of the Don River in Azov City over 2005–2020 were selected as research objects. The study relied on using results obtained by bacteriological tests of 540 river water samples as well as 1800 water samples taken at outlets from water treatment facilities and in distribution networks of the municipal water supply system. The tests involved identifying sanitary-indicative microorganisms (total levels, fecal and glucose-positive coliform bacteria), potentially pathogenic microorganisms (Klebsiella and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and pathogenic enterobacteriaceae (Salmonella).

Comprehensive assessment of potential microbial risk associated with waterborne infectious diseases was performed including retrospective analysis of its trends and seasonal characteristics. Accuracy of medium-term extrapolation prediction of microbial risk was comparatively analyzed using regression and neural network models. A complex indicator was calculated for water in the Lower Don River in 2005–2020 for two sanitary-hygienic factors (Sources of Centralized Household and Drinking Water Supply and Recreational Water Use). Its value based on a five-level classifier amounted to 0.612. This made it possible to determine a very high level of potential microbial risk associated with spread of waterborne infections with its typical summer-autumn seasonal rise.

Due to optimization measures, a stable favorable trend was formed per the factor ‘Centralized Household and Drinking Water Supply’. The value of the three-factor complex indicator (0.525) made it possible to establish a high level of potential microbial risk associated with spread of waterborne intestinal infections. A statistically significant (p < 0.01) direct medium correlation was established between incidence of acute intestinal infections and salmonellosis and the level of potential microbial risk. Neural network models were confirmed to provide higher accuracy for medium-term microbial risk predictions.
Frequency evaluation of the genetic variant LCT RS4988235 (-13910 c>t), associated with lactose intolerance, in the Russian Federation
Authors:   National Center for Genetic Research, 12 Nikolaeva St., Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation, Kolesnikova I.S. , Shirokova N.S. ,   National Center for Genetic Research, 12 Nikolaeva St., Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation, Kushnarenko V.S. ,   National Center for Genetic Research, 12 Nikolaeva St., Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation, Panteleeva N.V. ,   National Center for Genetic Research, 12 Nikolaeva St., Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation, Mamchits А.А. ,   National Center for Genetic Research, 12 Nikolaeva St., Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation, Mezhevalova А.S. ,   National Center for Genetic Research, 12 Nikolaeva St., Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation, Polunovskiy V.V. ,   National Center for Genetic Research, 12 Nikolaeva St., Novosibirsk, 630090, Russian Federation
Published: January 2025

Most published studies of the prevalence of genetic predisposition to lactose intolerance in Russia have limitations, which makes it difficult to provide a complete assessment for Russia as a whole. Moreover, no comparison with the neighboring countries was performed.

The aim of this work was to analyze the frequency of the LCT gene rs4988235 regulatory region variant associated with lactose intolerance in Russian regions and in some neighboring countries.

As a material, buccal epithelium of 40,111 investigated subjects was used. Genotyping was performed using a real-time polymerase chain reaction with hybridization-fluorescence signal detection.

The frequency of C allele associated with lactose intolerance was 67.73 ± 0.03 % on average. The prevalence of the CC genotype in Russia averaged 46.1 %; CT, 34.22 %; ТТ, 10.66 %, significantly different from European and Asian populations. The maximum frequency of the C allele was found in Yakutia (84.0% ± 0.6 %); the minimum (54.4 ± 0.7 %), in the Vladimir region. A reliable moderate correlation was found between the prevalence of the T allele and the proportion of the East Slavic population in Russian regions. The frequency of the C allele in Belarus (67.8 ± 0.4 %) and Ukraine (68.7 ± 0.3 %) is comparable with the same for Russia; in Armenia (86.4 ± 1.3 %), Georgia (87.3 ± 1.0 %), Kazakhstan (82.1 ± 0.1 %), Kyrgyzstan (81.9 ± 0.6 %) and Uzbekistan (86.4 ± 0.7 %), significantly higher than in Russia.

Data concerning the frequency of rs4988235 in Russia regions were obtained from a large all-Russian population. Dis-covered similarities and differences are evidently related to the ethnic composition of Russia regions and neighboring countries.
Lifestyle factors in risks of chronic non-communicable diseases in young people (Literature meta-analysis)
Authors:   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 2/2 Bol’shaya Pirogovskaya St., Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation, Onishchenko G.G. ,   Russian Academy of Education, 8 Pogodinskaya St., Moscow, 119121, Russian Federation, Zhukova Т.V. ,   Rostov State Medical University, 29 Nakhichevanskii Av., Rostov-on-Don, 344022, Russian Federation, Gorbacheva N.А. ,   N.A. Semashko National Research Institute of Public Health, 12 Vorontsovo Pole St., bldg 1, Moscow, 105064, Russian Federation, Latyshevskaya N.I. ,   Volgograd State Medical University, 1 Pavshikh Bortsov Square, Volgograd, 400066, Russian Federation, Vasilieva Т.P. ,   N.A. Semashko National Research Institute of Public Health, 12 Vorontsovo Pole St., bldg 1, Moscow, 105064, Russian Federation, Belik S.N. ,   Rostov State Medical University, 29 Nakhichevanskii Av., Rostov-on-Don, 344022, Russian Federation, Shatov А.Yu. ,   Rostov State Medical University, 29 Nakhichevanskii Av., Rostov-on-Don, 344022, Russian Federation
Published: January 2025

Healthy lifestyle formation and protection of people’s health is a complex multifactorial process directly associated with the prevention component in the healthcare system. To protect health of future generations, it is necessary to consider and control lifestyle-related factors in young people.

The aim of this study was to determine lifestyle-related factors and associated functional changes in the body as risk indicators of chronic non-communicable diseases in young people.

The review relied on meta-analysis of data obtained from various research databases over the period between 2013 and 2023. Analyzed studies employed variable research methods inducing questioning, anthropometric measurements, functional tests and biochemical analyses. The obtained data were statistically analyzed by using cluster analysis in Statistica 10.

The results of the accomplished meta-analysis have shown two major locuses that can be identified among risk factors influencing young people’s health. The first one is hypodynamia and associated unhealthy diets and essential hypertension. The second one is bad habits, smoking holding the absolutely first rank place among them.

We have identified basic lifestyle-related health risk factors of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) for young people, namely, hypodynamia and smoking. It seems necessary to develop statistical report forms in order to control the health risk factors highlighted in this review within the social-hygienic monitoring
Modern approaches to preventing influence of environmental factors on the functional state of the urinary system of female military personnel when they perform tasks during military conflict (Literature review)
Authors:   M. Gorky Donetsk National Medical University, 16 Il’icha Av., Donetsk, Donetsk People’s Republic, 283003, Russian Federation, Frolova S.Yu. , Churkin D.V. ,   M. Gorky Donetsk National Medical University, 16 Il’icha Av., Donetsk, Donetsk People’s Republic, 283003, Russian Federation
Published: January 2025

The modern stage in construction of the Armed Forces based on the experience of their use in military conflicts of varying intensity, including Special Military Operation, entails an increasing proportion of women involved in military service. This puts forward additional requirements for protection of their health. Due to its structural and functional peculiarities, the female urinary system is more vulnerable to environmental exposures of hygienic nature, which calls for developing a set of preventive measures based on monitoring over risk factors of urological pathology.

Scientific relevance of the issue under consideration is reflected in modern specialized literature, while the uniqueness associated with long-term performance of official and combat tasks by women in the zone of Special Military Operation and the previous military conflict is not described in the literature. At the same time, the proposed preventive measures are strongly linked to the climatic characteristics typical for this theater of military operations and practically do not consider peculiarities of military labor, food supply as well as availability of drinking and household water. In modern literature, practically no attention is paid to placement conditions provided for female military personnel in a war zone as well as to peculiarities of providing urological care within the system for medical and evacuation support of military operations. This determines the practical value of further research in this direction. Influence of urological pathology in female military personnel on their reproductive health is also unexplored, which determines the additional importance of the ongoing research.

The review presents approaches to preventing urological diseases in female military personnel in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation; it also identifies promising areas that can be used in developing a system for monitoring over risks of urological pathology in female military personnel performing tasks during Special Military Operation.
Perfil físico-químico e aspectos microbiológicos do queijo tipo coalho comercializado em Estados do Nordeste do Brasil
Authors:   , Sousa Andréa Zilá Barroso de
Published: January 2025

O queijo de coalho é um produto típico da região Nordeste. Apesar de sua grande expressão, ainda são escassos os estudos envolvendo o levantamento dos atributos físico-químicos e microbiológicos que caracterizam a sua qualidade. Objetivou-se com esse estudo avaliar o perfil das características físico-químicas e microbiológicas dos queijos de coalho comercializados em seis estados do nordeste brasileiro. Foram analisadas 104 amostras de queijo de coalho comercializadas nos estados do Pernambuco (20), Piauí (10), Ceará (24), Rio Grande do Norte (20), Sergipe (20) e Paraíba (10). Das 104 amostras 50 eram com inspeção (QCI – queijo de coalho industrial) e 54 sem inspeção (QCA – queijo de coalho artesanal). Foi realizada a caracterização físico-química (pH, atividade de água, umidade e acidez) e microbiológica. Para o parâmetro pH das amostras analisadas houve variação de 5,68±0,29 a 6,30±0,30 para QCI e 5,18±0,15 a 6,22±0,37 para os QCA. A atividade de água variou de 0,911±0,012 a 0,963±0,007 para os QCI e 0,892±0,036 a 0,962±0,009 para os QCA. A umidade teve variação de 14,38 ± 3,53 a 24,08±10,87 para os QCI e de 15,00±2,00 a 29,38±15,79 para os CQA. A acidez percentual expressa em ácido lático variou de 0,16% ± 0,22 a 0,74 ± 0,17 de ácido lático para os QCI e de 0,12±0,01 a 1,01±0,24 para QCA. Pesquisou-se contagem de Staphylococcus aureus, Coliformes Termotolarentes e Salmonella. Das 104 amostras apenas cinco estavam dentro do limite estabelecido pela legislação para Staphylococcus aureus e apenas quatro estavam apropriadas para o consumo humano, pois as contagens para Staphylococcus aureus e Coliformes Termotolerantes estavam dentro do padrão estabelecido pela legislação. Das 104 amostras analisadas 72 estavam dentro do padrão estabelecido pela ANVISA para Coliformes Termotolerantes. Em apenas uma amostra foi detectada a presença de Salmonella. Não houve diferença significativa entre as amostras com e sem inspeção para Coliformes Termotolerantes. Não houve diferença significativa entre as amostras com e sem inspeção para Staphylococcus aureus. As amostras eram de má qualidade e impróprias para o consumo humano, daí a importância de oferecer aos produtores orientação com relação à qualidade da matéria-prima, condições adequadas de higiene e manipulação na fabricação de queijo artesanal; e uma maior atenção e fiscalização por parte dos órgãos responsáveis, no sentido de implementar medidas mais rígidas de controle no processamento desse produto.
HYQTD Drug-containing Serum Alleviates H2O2-induced Endothelial Oxidative Damage by Increasing Mitochondrial ATP Synthesis and Inhibiting ROS
Authors: Wu Jin , Chen Lijuan , Du Ying , Leng Xue , Yuan Dongchao , Yang Mingqian , Zhao Yeyu , Lv Bin , Jia Lianqun
Published: January 2025

Background:

Atherosclerosis (AS) is caused by the endothelium injury associated
with oxidative stress. Previous studies have shown that the Phlegm-Eliminating and Stasis-
Transforming Decoction (Huayu Qutan Decoction, HYQTD) has mitochondrial protective function.
The objective of this research was to explore how HYQTD drug-containing serum
(HYQTD-DS) could potentially protect mitochondrial energy production in endothelial cells
(ECs) from injury caused by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative damage in AS
through SIRT1/PGC-1α/ Nrf2 pathway.

Methods:

After preparation of containing serum, the cells were divided into various categories,
such as control group, H2O2 group (an oxidative damage model), HYQTD group, Selisistat
(EX527, a SIRT1 inhibitor) combined with H2O2 group, and EX527 combined with HYQTD
group. The evaluation of oxidative stress involved measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS) and
malondialdehyde (MDA) generation, as well as Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activity. Mitochondrial
function and ultrastructure were measured by Transmission electron microscopy
(TEM), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), rate of oxygen consumption (OCR), respiratory
chain complex activities, and ATP production. The key proteins and gene levels in the
SIRT1/PGC-1α/Nrf2 pathway was quantified by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and
Western blotting analysis.

Results:

We found oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and mitochondrial energy disorder in
H2O2-induced ECs. However it indicated a marked reversal after pretreated with HYQTD-DS.
Mechanistically, EX527 induced increased oxidative stress, worse mitochondrial dysfunction,
and less ATP synthesis.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated that HYQTD-DS attenuated oxidative stress, improved mitochondrial
function, and up-regulated mitochondrial ATP synthesis by activating SIRT1/PGC-
1α/Nrf2 pathway-induced mitochondrial biogenesis and its downstream NADH dehydrogenase
(ubiquinone) flavoprotein 2 (NDV2).
Roles of Empagliflozin in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: A Review
Authors: Luo Hao , Zhang Ningzhi , Liu Yingying , Pei Chen , Duan Pinglin , Lou Xiaokun , Yu Huan , Lei Qingqing , Zhao Gangfeng , Wang Mingwei , Jiao Qibin , Gong Wenyan , Zhang Xingwei
Published: January 2025

Empagliflozin (EMPA), a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i), represents
a novel therapeutic agent for diabetes management. Over the past decade, studies have consistently
demonstrated that EMPA not only effectively lowers blood glucose levels but also confers substantial
cardiovascular benefits without inducing hypoglycemia. This holds for individuals with or without
diabetes, highlighting EMPA’s potential in mitigating the risk of adverse cardiovascular events
and cardiovascular mortality. The underlying mechanisms driving these advantageous effects remain
incompletely understood, with presently elucidated pathways encompassing blood pressure reduction,
oxidative stress attenuation, anti-inflammatory properties, metabolic regulation, uric acid level
modulation, inhibition of Na+/H+ exchangers, preservation of mitochondrial function, vascular protection,
and regulation of myocardial autophagy. In this review, we considered the effects and mechanisms
of EMPA in combating diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), underscoring its therapeutic relevance
in addressing cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes.
Synthesis, Reactions and Biological Activities of Pyrimido[4,5-c]
Isoquinolines (Part III)
Authors: Gouda Moustafa A. , Abu-hashem Amin A. , Ameen Tahah A. , Alharbi Reem A. K. , Althumayri Khalid
Published: January 2025

Isoquinoline and pyrimidine are valuable heterocyclic compounds that play a crucial role in
the development of new drug molecules. The combination of isoquinoline and pyrimidine moieties in
hybrid structures has provided exciting possibilities for various applications, leading to the discovery
of pyrimidoisoquinoline (PyIsoQ) compounds, such as pyrimido[4,5-c]isoquinolines and pyrimido[5,4-c]isoquinolines, which exhibit intriguing properties. Pyrimido[4,5-c]isoquinolines (Py[4,5-
c]IsoQs) can be synthesized from functionalized pyrimidine or isoquinoline. This review focuses on
the synthesis of PyIsoQs4,5-c from 3,4-difunctionalized isoquinolines through several chemical reactions, including Suzuki–Miyaura, Stille coupling, and Pictet–Spengler reactions.
Effect of Combustion Material on the Level of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Smoked Pork
Authors: Uyen Nguyen Thu , Giang Do Hoang , Thuy Le Minh , Xuyen Nguyen Thi , Minh Nguyen Thi Thu , Duong Hoang Thuy , Le Bui Thi Nhat , Nhi Luu Hai , Anh Nguyen Thi Hong , Luyen Nguyen Thi , Minh Bui Quang , Nam Vu Duc , Dat Nguyen Tien
Published: January 2025

Background:

Although smoking has historically been one of the most prevalent methods
for food preservation, it was considered a source of carcinogenic and mutagenic persistent organic
pollutants (POPs), such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls
(PCBs), and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) due to incompletely
combustion process. In this study, POPs in pork samples smoked with different materials: sawdust
only (NP group), sawdust and polyethylene (PE group), sawdust and polystyrene (PS group), and
mixed sawdust (M group) were detected and quantified.

Method:

The GC-MS method was applied to quantify several POPs in pork samples smoked by various
materials. After that, multivariate statistics were used to elucidate differences among groups and
chemical markers associated with each smoking material, underscoring the need to evaluate the implications
of smoking materials on food safety and public health.

Results:

The total PAH and PCB contents were lowest in the NP samples (smoked with sawdust
only), with PAH levels ranging from 500 to 2000 μg/kg lipid and PCB levels from 0.5 to 1.3 μg/kg
lipid. In contrast, the PE, PS, and M groups, which were smoked with sawdust combined with different
polymers and contaminants, showed higher levels. The PAH content in these groups exceeded
3000 μg/kg lipid, while PCB levels in PE and PS ranged from 1.5 to over 3.0 μg/kg lipid, and M
samples had the widest variation, spanning from 0.6 to 3.2 μg/kg lipid. Regarding PCDD/Fs, none
were detected in the NP samples, while the PE and PS groups contained between 1.2 and 1.5 pg/g
lipid, with specific compounds identified (e.g., 234678-HxCDF in PE and 12378-PeCDF and
123478-HxCDF in PS). The M samples exhibited the highest PCDD/Fs content, ranging from 5.0 to
14.0 pg/g lipid, with up to six compounds formed, including one PCDD and five PCDFs.

Conclusion:

The analysis also revealed that the presence of polyethylene and polystyrene significantly
elevated POP levels in the respective groups. Meanwhile, samples in the M group possessed
various chemical compositions with multiple concentrations, presented by the large area on the PCA
biplot and usually intermingled with samples of other groups. Especially, OCDD was the only PCDD
that was detected only in M group simples.
Semaphorin 3A Confers Protection against Oxidative Stress-induced Damage in Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells through the Activation of the
Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: He Haipeng , Yuan Xueshun , Chen Yanyan , Hu Tianyong , Cheng Baohui , Du Ruitian , Huang Jiamin , Geng Xiaorui , Li Hongwen , Liu Senqing , Liu Zhiqiang
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

The osteogenic potential of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) is
crucial for periodontal tissue regeneration. Prolonged and excessive oxidative stress (OS) impairs
the osteogenic function of PDLSCs. Recently, Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) has been reported to
have multiple roles in bone protection. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of Sema3A
on the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs under OS conditions induced by hydrogen peroxide
(H2O2).

Methods:

PDLSCs were subjected to H2O2 treatment to induce OS. The OS indices in PDLSCs
were evaluated by analyzing levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell viability, and expression
of antioxidant factors using relevant assay kits. A small molecule inhibitor, XAV-939, was
employed to block the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Osteogenic differentiation was assessed using alkaline
phosphatase (ALP) activity staining and Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining for mineralized nodules.
Expression levels of osteogenic gene markers and β-catenin were determined via real-time
quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) or western blot (WB) analysis.

Results:

The stimulation of H2O2 induced OS in PDLSCs, resulting in a downregulation of Sema3A
expression and a decrease in osteogenic markers, including ALP activity, mineralized nodule
formation, and the expression of osteogenic genes (RUNX2 and ALP). However, the application
of recombinant human Sema3A (rhSema3A) counteracted H2O2-induced OS and restored these
osteogenic markers in PDLSCs under OS induced by H2O2. Mechanistic studies revealed that
these effects were associated with an upregulation of β-catenin levels. Moreover, inhibiting β--
catenin expression compromised the protective effect of Sema3A on osteogenesis in PDLSCs under
OS.

Conclusion:

Sema3A exerts a protective effect against H2O2-induced OS and activates the Wnt/β--
catenin pathway to restore osteogenic differentiation impaired by OS in PDLSCs.
Adenoviral Therapy for Cervical Cancer: From Targeted Modification to Immunotherapy
Authors: Li Yufeng , Zhang Haibin , Xin Wenhu , Qin Tiansheng
Published: January 2025

Cervical cancer is a significant global health threat, ranking as the fourth most common malignancy
among women and resulting in over 300,000 deaths annually. Although screening and vaccination initiatives have
led to a decline in incidence rates, treatment options for advanced or recurrent cervical cancer remain inadequate,
often proving ineffective and costly. In this context, adenoviral therapy has emerged as a promising strategy to
enhance therapeutic outcomes. Adenoviruses are non-enveloped viruses that can efficiently infect a wide range of
cells, including tumor cells, while exhibiting a favorable safety profile, making them suitable candidates for clinical
applications. Adenoviral vectors possess the unique ability to package large segments of therapeutic genes,
allowing for diverse treatment approaches, including oncolytic virotherapy, which selectively targets and destroys
tumor cells while stimulating robust immune responses. By engineering adenoviruses to express tumor suppressor
genes such as p53, researchers can restore critical apoptotic pathways often disrupted in cervical cancer. Furthermore,
genetic modifications to capsid proteins can enhance the targeting of tumor cells and reduce the immunogenicity
associated with these viral vectors. Additionally, adenoviral vectors can serve as delivery systems for
therapeutic vaccines against HPV oncogenes E6 and E7, promoting effective immune responses and potentially
preventing disease progression. The combination of adenoviral therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors offers
a novel approach to overcoming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, enhancing overall antitumor
immunity. Overall, this review highlights the significant advancements in adenoviral therapy for cervical cancer,
emphasizing the need for further research to optimize these strategies and translate preclinical successes into
effective clinical applications. By harnessing the full potential of adenoviral vectors, we can improve treatment
options for patients who have cervical cancer, paving the way for more personalized and effective therapeutic
interventions.
Recent Advances in Bioactive Flavonoids-based Nanotherapeutics as Promising Neuroprotectants in Epilepsy
Authors: Pradhan Priyabrata , Jana Koushik , Ghosh Somnath , Debnath Biplab , Rout Saroj Kumar , Rai Vineet Kumar , Kar Biswakanth , Kar Durgamadhab , Ghosh Goutam , Rath Goutam
Published: January 2025

Background:

Epilepsy is a prevalent neurological disorder that can be characterized
by seizures and can be caused by abnormal electrical impulses in the brain. Various genetic, environmental, age-related, and lifestyle factors are associated with its pathogenesis, which causes
neuronal cells to degenerate over time.

Methodology:

Epilepsy often results from an imbalance between excitatory neurotransmitters,
such as glutamate, and inhibitory neurotransmitters, such as GABA. Abnormalities in glutamate
receptors like N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-
isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) can lead to excessive neuronal excitation, while dysfunctions
in GABA receptors can result in insufficient inhibition, both of which can provoke seizures. Additionally, a variety of receptors and pathways like NF-κB, DAPK, Trκb, COX-2, etc. are associated with the expression of epilepsy. This disorder often faces various limitations in treatment
with current anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs), such as drug resistance, adverse effects, and high costs.
In context, flavonoids exhibit significant neuroprotective properties in epilepsy through various
mechanisms such as antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, neurotransmitter systems,
and receptor modulation.

Results:

Flavonoids communicate with different signaling pathways and adjust their activities,
prompting valuable neuroprotective impacts. Essential flavonoids such as quercetin, rutin,
apigenin, luteolin, genistein, fisetin, chrysin, vitexin, naringin, baicalin, catechin, morin,
hesperetin, kaempferol, gallic acid, silibinin, wogonin, etc. have shown promising results in
channel regulation, reduced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, and neuronal excitability in
experimental models of epilepsy. Given their inherent neuroprotective properties and ability to
modulate multiple pathways involved in epilepsy, flavonoids hold considerable promise as multitargeted, accessible, and low-cost alternatives to conventional AEDs. Although there are
challenges with target specificity and bioavailability, innovative approaches such as
nanotechnology and chemical modifications are being developed to enhance these aspects.

Conclusion:

Focusing on the mechanisms of action and neuroprotective benefits the paper
highlights the promising role of flavonoids and flavonoid-based nanotherapeutics as a beneficial
addition to epilepsy treatment strategies.
Research on Pole-climbing Robots that Can Perform Multi-degree-offreedom Motion and Working at the Top of Distribution Network Poles
Authors: Feng Yu , Wu Shaolei , Wu Kai , Guo Feng , Wei Chunjie , Wang Wei
Published: January 2025

Background:

In order to complete power maintenance, equipment renewal and other
loss reduction work and reduce customer outage time at the same time, live electrical work has become
a necessary means. Pole-climbing robots, as an important auxiliary tool for power-carrying
operations, frequently appear in papers and patents.

Objective:

The pole climbing robot is designed to work at any position in the working space with
electric distribution pole, effectively and safely replacing manual work.

Methods:

Based on the physical parameters of the cement utility pole and the range of space for
live electrical work, the functional relationships are established between the structural parameters of
the robot and the kinematic and dynamical models, and the optimal range of parameters is solved.

Results:

The robot can rotate and climb around the pole with five steering angles: 0°, 22.5°, 45°,
67.5° and 90°. The control insulated operating rod can transport special tools to any station within
1m radius of the distribution pole for live work. It has a maximum load of 11kg and a maximum
climbing speed of 33.6mm/s.

Conclusion:

The pole-climbing robot can climb cement utility pole, manipulate the insulated operating
lever it carries, and transport special tools to the workstation on the cable for carrying out live
electrical work.
A Machine Learning Approach Using Topic Modeling to Identify and Assess Experiences of Patients With Colorectal Cancer: Explorative Study
Authors: Voigt Kelly , Sun Yingtao , Patandin Ayush , Hendriks Johanna , Goossens Richard Hendrik , Verhoef Cornelis , Husson Olga , Grünhagen Dirk , Jung Jiwon
Published: January 2025

Background

The rising number of cancer survivors and the shortage of health care professionals challenge the accessibility of cancer care. Health technologies are necessary for sustaining optimal patient journeys. To understand individuals’ daily lives during their patient journey, qualitative studies are crucial. However, not all patients wish to share their stories with researchers.

Objective

This study aims to identify and assess patient experiences on a large scale using a novel machine learning–supported approach, leveraging data from patient forums.

Methods

Forum posts of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) from the Cancer Survivors Network USA were used as the data source. Topic modeling, as a part of machine learning, was used to recognize the topic patterns in the posts. Researchers read the most relevant 50 posts on each topic, dividing them into “home” or “hospital” contexts. A patient community journey map, derived from patients stories, was developed to visually illustrate our findings. CRC medical doctors and a quality-of-life expert evaluated the identified topics of patient experience and the map.

Results

Based on 212,107 posts, 37 topics and 10 upper clusters were produced. Dominant clusters included “Daily activities while living with CRC” (38,782, 18.3%) and “Understanding treatment including alternatives and adjuvant therapy” (31,577, 14.9%). Topics related to the home context had more emotional content compared with the hospital context. The patient community journey map was constructed based on these findings.

Conclusions

Our study highlighted the diverse concerns and experiences of patients with CRC. The more emotional content in home context discussions underscores the personal impact of CRC beyond clinical settings. Based on our study, we found that a machine learning-supported approach is a promising solution to analyze patients’ experiences. The innovative application of patient community journey mapping provides a unique perspective into the challenges in patients’ daily lives, which is essential for delivering appropriate support at the right moment.
Researchers and Research Data: Improving and Incentivising Sharing and Archiving
Authors: Ventsel Minna , Montague-Hellen Beth
Published: January 2025

There has been a lot of discussion within the scientific community around the issues of reproducibility in research, with questions being raised about the integrity of research due to failure to reproduce or confirm the findings of some of the studies. Researchers need to adhere to the FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable) principles to contribute to collaborative and open science, but these open data principles can also support reproducibility and issues around ensuring data integrity. This article uses observations and metrics from data sharing and research integrity related activities, undertaken by a Research Integrity and Data Specialist at the Francis Crick Institute, to discuss potential reasons behind a slow uptake of FAIR data practices. We then suggest solutions undertaken at the Francis Crick institute which can be followed by institutes and universities to improve the integrity of research from a data perspective. One major solution discussed is the implementation of a data archive system at the Francis Crick Institute to ensure the integrity of data long term, comply with our funders’ data management requirements, and to safeguard our researchers against any potential research integrity allegations in the future.
Deep Learning Models for Classifying Apple Leaf Diseases: A Review
Authors: Kumar Ajay
Published: January 2025

Accurately and efficiently classifying apple leaf diseases is crucial for early detection, management, and enhanced
agricultural productivity. With advancements in deep learning, particularly Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), the
potential for automated plant disease detection has greatly increased. The research comprehensively reviews deep learning
models applied to apple leaf disease classification, focusing on state-of-the-art architectures such as MobileNet, Xception,
NASNetLarge, and DenseNet-201. The existing studies on the application of these models in plant disease detection, comparing
their strengths, limitations, and suitability for agricultural applications have been critically analyzed. Performance metrics like
accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score are examined to identify the most effective models for detecting various apple leaf
diseases under real-world conditions. The research highlights key challenges and opportunities in optimizing deep learning
models for practical deployment, contributing to sustainable farming practices and agricultural disease management
advancements.
Social Engineering Attack in the Era of Generative AI
Authors: Kumar Nishant
Published: January 2025

A significant cybersecurity risk arises when sophisticated artificial intelligence (AI) is combined with social
engineering. The aim of this study was to assess how much the sophistication and skills of social engineering are enhanced
through advanced AI techniques. The study found that generative AI has revolutionized social engineering in six key areas:
multi-channel attack vectors, automated infrastructure for social engineering campaigns, advanced personalization, the
development of evasion and obfuscation tactics, and the creation of hyper-realistic content. The study also proposed a framework
to recognize the evolving threat landscape, termed the Generative AI Social Engineering Framework. It highlights how
structured and organized AI can be leveraged in deceptive social engineering tactics by integrating elements from machine
learning, cybersecurity, and human-computer interaction. Besides showing up the vulnerabilities, the research also lays out
recommendations to safeguard organizations and individuals in order to attain digital resilience.