bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community Empowerment in Processing Snake Fruit into 'Salak Pie' Products as an Effort to Downstream the Commodity and Potential Alternative for Supplementary Feeding to Prevent Stunting in Sumberurip Village
Authors: Jauhani Muhammad Afiful , Putri Echa Amalia , Asti Purnomo Faisal Kevin , Aida Firzanah Bilqis , Ariefianto Putri Hellen Maretha , Putri Icha Fahrriza , Wahyuningtyas Ika Putri , Pramestinasari Intan , Azizah Lailatul Nur , Priskila Haryuningtyas Ngantung  , Rizaldy Andy Wijaya  , Suhartatin  , Zakiyah Maulidatul Hasanah
Published: December 2024

Sumberurip Village, located in Pronojiwo District, Lumajang Regency, is predominantly an agricultural village where most of the community members farm salak (snake fruit). Up until now, the agricultural yield has primarily been marketed as raw produce. Additionally, stunting remains a critical issue in Lumajang Regency. Common challenges include highly fluctuating prices for salak, which tend to drop during harvest season due to an abundant supply, as well as the community’s limited knowledge and skills in processing and managing the fruit beyond raw sales. The Community Service Program for Village Development (KKN-UMD) of Jember University, Group 290, held in July - August 2024, aims to empower the Sumberurip community by increasing the value of salak through the creation of Salak Pie, which could also serve as an alternative snack for supplementary feeding programs (PMT) to help prevent stunting. The activities are conducted by providing training to the community on how to process salak into salak pie, as well as strategies for promoting and marketing these products. The Village Government and the community have warmly welcomed this initiative, considering it highly beneficial for enhancing the market value of their salak harvests and offering a nutritious local food alternative. The purpose of this community service is to equip the people of Sumberurip Village with knowledge and skills to process salak into Salak Pie, which is intended to boost the local economy while also providing a nutritious alternative for supplementary feeding programs.
Simulation of the regenerative braking process under various train passing conditions
Authors:   Samara State Transport University (SSTU), Amirov Namik E. , Shepelin Pavel V. ,   Samara State Transport University (SSTU)
Published: December 2024

The foundations for the formation of a mathematical model of regenerative braking using excess energy storage systems installed at infrastructure facilities are proposed. The mathematical models reflect invariant calculations of traction and braking modes on double-track sections of train circulation. The features of the charging and discharging processes of energy storage systems with the possibility of their installation and connection to the contact network of landfills of direct current trains are also considered.
Analysis of the traffic management system in the People’s Republic of China
Authors:   Don State Technical University, Jin Ziming
Published: December 2024

The article discusses the issues of creating and applying road safety management systems in China. It is shown that these systems, on the one hand, demonstrate a high potential for increasing road capacity and improving traffic safety, and on the other hand, they are characterized by difficulties in data management and do not use big data technologies enough. For more accurate and efficient traffic management, it is recommended to improve the data management structure and strengthen the use of Internet technologies.
Development of an energy-efficient switched reluctance motor for fan drive
Authors:   Rostov State Transport University (RSTU), Kashuba A. V. , Shevkunova A. V. ,   Rostov State Transport University (RSTU), Mishchenko A. V. ,   Rostov State Transport University (RSTU), Evteev N. S. ,   Rostov State Transport University (RSTU)
Published: December 2024

The article considers an energy-efficient switched reluctance motor of fan drive designed for air conditioning systems in passenger cars. A method for determining the optimal control laws of a switched reluctance motor is presented, which makes it possible to ensure minimum electrical losses for a wide range of rotational speeds while simultaneously meeting the required power indicators. A method for accelerated determination of various characteristics of a switched reluctance motor is proposed, based on interpolation of a function of four variables and allowing to significantly save computer computing resources. To solve the tasks set, a systematic approach, methods of field theory and theory of electric circuits were used, the finite element method in the FEMM 4.2 computer program was used to calculate the field problem. Optimization was performed by sequential iteration, numerical computer modeling was performed using the MATLAB program.
Logistics technologies in urban passenger transportation
Authors:   Tver State University, Kurganov V. M. , Gryaznov M. V. ,   Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University (NMGTU), Dorofeev A. N. ,   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Sysoeva S. V. ,   Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University (NMGTU)
Published: December 2024

It is proposed to use logical technologies in urban passenger transportation, the main feature of which are delivery methods focused on customer needs (the concept of Demand-driven Techniques - DDT). The role of the customer of transport services is played by residents of the city, and their needs can be divided into two large classes of situations: 1) movements that are relatively evenly distributed by time of day and city territory; 2) movements of a large number of people, concentrated in directions and implemented in fixed time intervals of relatively short duration (analogous to Just-in-time logistics technology). An example of movements belonging to the first class of situations are trips with sociocultural purposes. The most common example of second-class situations is labor movements. However, there are other types of trips that are characterized by concentration in directions and time of implementation, despite the fact that some of them are permanent (they take place on all weekdays), and others are either seasonal, periodic, or one-time. The authors have developed a spatiotemporal classification of transport service situations for city residents, represented by a tree graph in a three-level matrix field. Field studies of the movements of residents of Tver and Magnitogorsk were carried out. The choice of cities is explained by the fact that they have different options for a multi-core layout, typical for most large cities in Russia. The conclusions contain recommendations on the use of logistics technologies in the organization of urban passenger transportation.
Analyses of the Variants of Projecting Urban Rail Tracks and Stations (on the Example of Yekaterinburg)
Authors:   Ural State University of Railway Transport, Penkina Irina E. , Zhelezniakov Egor A. ,   Ural State University of Railway Transport
Published: December 2024

The article considers variants of rail tracks and stations location in cluttered urban area, classification and principles of their construction are presented. Key problems of the main types of the rail base and around rail structures for the urban rail transport location have been determined. Comparative analyses of the suggested variants has been made on the most important parameters.
Die Schönheit des Grand Canyons
Authors: Kruhöffer Bettina
Published: December 2024

Innerhalb des religionspädagogischen Diskurses wird zunehmend der sensible Umgang mit heterogenen, oftmals indifferenten Einstellungen von Schüler*innen im Unterricht eingefordert. Didaktische Materialien, anhand derer konfessionslose Weltsichten angemessen reflektiert werden können, sind in Lehrplänen und Schulbüchern noch unterrepräsentiert. Am ehesten finden sich Texte der klassischen Religionskritik oder des religionsfeindlichen Atheismus. Dieses Textangebot begünstigt aber eine schematische Trennung von Glauben und Unglauben, welche den vielfältigen Perspektiven der Schüler*innen nicht unbedingt gerecht wird. Wichtig ist es daher, die bestehenden Curricula um Texte zu ergänzen, anhand derer Übergänge zwischen religiösen und anderen Weisen der Weltauslegung thematisiert werden können. Dafür eignen sich Auszüge aus Schriften des Philosophen Ronald Dworkins, der seine Position als religiösen Atheismus bezeichnet. Es wird an Beispielen aufgezeigt, dass für Dworkin die Grenzen nicht pauschal zwischen Religion und Atheismus verlaufen, sondern zwischen einem Glauben an die objektive Realität von Werten, welchen religiöse Atheisten und Theisten teilen, und einer atheistisch-naturalistischen Haltung. So sind sich Gottgläubige und religiöse Atheisten hinsichtlich ihres Gespürs für unverletzliche Werte einig, auch wenn sie die Erklärungen für das Zustandekommen des inhärenten Werts der Natur unterschiedlich entfalten. Eine Auseinandersetzung mit Dworkins Perspektive fördert somit die differenzierte Betrachtung religiöser oder nichtreligiöser Weltsichten und kann als ein bereicherndes Bildungsangebot verstanden werden.
Bridging the Gap between Chinese Character Literacy and Korean Literacy
Authors:   The Research Of The Korean Classic, Yun Yae-young
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the disparity between Chinese character literacy and comprehensive Korean literacy among university students in liberal arts courses. It aims to propose educational solutions by redesigning Chinese character education to elevate students' literacy from a beginner to an intermediate level and integrating it into overall Korean literacy. This paper reflects on the course “Walking along Chinese Culture,” offered at University A from 2020 to 2024, and introduces a new framework called “Chinese Characters as Part of Korean” to enhance students' literacy.
To address the issue of functional illiteracy in Chinese characters, this paper advocates for developing basic literacy by utilizing the concept of the Chinese character index component from the secondary education curriculum. This approach emphasizes learning the principles of synthesis and decomposition of Chinese characters, which can also apply to Korean vocabulary acquisition. By fostering active cognitive skills such as analysis, synthesis, and reasoning through vocabulary learning, this paper suggests practical exercises, including mind mapping, to bridge the gap between basic Chinese character literacy and Korean literacy. The transition from basic literacy to advanced critical literacy can be facilitated through engagement with Chinese character culture by designing courses focused on reading and rewriting cultural texts.
This study argues that the issue of “weak literacy” extends beyond basic and advanced categories, necessitating the active integration of multiliteracy and critical literacy in liberal arts education. In conclusion, the research recommends restructuring Chinese character education to encompass multiliteracy skills alongside reading and writing courses, promoting a holistic approach to literacy that includes a wider array of skills and competencies.
Connecting corporate communication to employee engagement for organisational success at Bakoena Services Pty Ltd
Authors: Thene Motseoa , Khumalo Njabulo , Myeni Sifiso
Published: December 2024

There is a disconnect between corporate communication and employee engagement which often leads to poor organizational culture and ultimately poor performance. Therefore, the study aims to address this phenomenon and connect corporate communication to employee engagement for organisational success. Organizations are aware of the indisputable connection between their success and employee engagement in the current competitive environment. With a qualitative method using an interpretivism research paradigm, this study explores how corporate communication at Bakoena Services Pty Ltd. promotes employee engagement. Senior, middle, and junior staff members provide detailed perspectives. The study used semi-structured interviews to investigate how employees feel about the channels of communication that are currently in place, as well as how effective they are perceived to be and how they affect engagement. It also looked at tactics and planned communication enhancements that Bakoena Services Pty Ltd. might use to encourage employee engagement. This study added to our knowledge of the complex interplay within a particular organizational setting between corporate communication and employee engagement as well as made contributions theoretically to the stakeholder theory which underpinned the study. The conclusions provided Bakoena Services Pty Ltd. with insightful information about modifying its communication strategies to foster a workforce that is more engaged, content, and eventually more productive. The study's findings give suggestions for enhancement as well as insight into the role of corporate communication in promoting employee engagement at Bakoena Services Pty Ltd. The study's main recommendation is to strengthen the role of human resources, which is crucial in addition to communication reform. The study also concludes that human resource staff members ought to be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in communication, engagement strategies, feedback management, and leadership development.
The emergence of artificial intelligence in the higher education
Authors: Ajani Oluwatoyin , Akintolu Morakinyo , Afolabi Sunday Oluwafemi
Published: December 2024

This study presents a systematic literature review analysing the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on higher education, focusing on its methods, results, and implications. By synthesising a diverse range of academic papers, the review explores how AI technologies influence educational standards and practices in higher education institutions. Findings reveal that AI has the potential to enhance the quality of higher education by diversifying teaching responsibilities, customising learning experiences, and employing intelligent, adaptive teaching strategies. These capabilities position AI as a transformative tool for improving educational delivery and outcomes. However, the study also highlights significant challenges associated with integrating AI into higher education. These challenges include delineating the appropriate scope of AI use, addressing inequalities in access to digital resources, and ensuring adequate training and support for educators and students. The review underscores the importance of understanding these complexities to guide the development of effective strategies and policies that optimise AI's potential while mitigating its limitations. The review offers critical insights into the dual role of AI in higher education, where it can either advance or hinder educational standards depending on how it is implemented. By examining the advantages, limitations, and broader consequences of AI-powered instructional tools, this study provides a comprehensive perspective on the intricate relationship between AI and educational quality. The findings aim to inform educators, policymakers, and stakeholders about the opportunities and challenges of adopting AI in higher education, contributing to the development of inclusive, innovative, and sustainable educational practices.
Artificial Intelligence in higher education: a decade’s bibliometric snapshot, emerging themes and future research
Authors: Chamboko-Mpotaringa Mavis , Manditereza Blandina
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence has become an integral part of higher education, significantly transforming the landscape of higher education. This study aims to identify, analyse and visualise peer-reviewed academic research output on artificial intelligence (AI) and graduate attributes in higher education. Data was gathered from the Scopus database over a decade (2014-2024), with search terms related to artificial intelligence, graduate attributes, and higher education. Following the PRISMA method guidelines, 106 articles were deemed necessary for review. Bibliometric methods, content and thematic analysis were used to identify main themes, and VoSviewer software was used to analyse the data. The findings revealed research productivity, citation overview, the main subjects, the territory of the leading researchers, thematic choices and future research opportunities and directions. Themes such as the impacts of AI on graduate attributes emerged, which may assist policymakers, educational institutions, teachers and students in their strategies and choices for adopting and using AI. The study recognised research trends, provided insights into the current state of AI and higher education research, and identified potential gaps in the literature on the research landscape of AI, graduate attributes, and higher education. The study can guide future researchers on emerging thematic opportunities.
The use of technology in community policing in Ghana: Tools, applications, challenges and recommendations
Authors: Nweke Ogochukwu Chidiebere , Francis Smita
Published: December 2024

The integration of technology has been identified as a major factor that can improve the performance of community police, reduce crime rates, and enhance community security. The purpose of this study was therefore to identify the technologies employed by the community police unit of the Ghana Police Service and the challenges that impede the full integration of technology into community policing. By engaging 27 participants from the Ghana Police Service in the Greater-Accra, Ashanti and Northern Regions, the research used a qualitative descriptive approach to analyse the use of communication technologies, surveillance tools, and data management systems in community policing. Key findings revealed that technologies such as mobile phones, CCTV cameras, and data mapping tools are instrumental in enhancing real-time communication, monitoring, and crime prevention. However, significant obstacles, including financial constraints, low digital literacy among officers, and community trust issues, hinder full integration. The study recommended that the Ghana Police Service seeks partnerships with private organizations to secure funding for technological resources, expand digital literacy programs for officers, and engage communities to build trust around technology use in policing. These findings contribute to the discourse on modernising law enforcement and underscore the importance of technology for effective community engagement and public safety in Ghana. By addressing these challenges, law enforcement can achieve a balanced integration of technology to support community policing objectives.
ECOLOGIA QUÍMICA EM PROJETO DE INTERVENÇÃO PEDAGÓGICA: MECANISMOS QUÍMICOS DE INTERAÇÃO INSETO - PLANTA
Authors: Da Silva Belem Antonio Rhamon , De Oliveira Fabiana Melo , De Oliveira Juscicleide Pereira , Bernardo Lindaci Martins , Machado Ângela Franciely , Deusdará Túllio Teixeira , Barilli Juliana , Da Silva Damiana Beatriz , Gomes Colares Carla Jovania
Published: December 2024

A Ecologia Química é um campo de estudo que investiga os compostos secundários produzidos por plantas e insetos, essenciais para suas interações ecológicas. A coevolução entre esses organismos é caracterizada por uma complexa comunicação química, mediada por feromônios intraespecíficos e aleloquímicos interespecíficos. Além disso, esses compostos também desempenham um papel na indução de respostas de defesa nas plantas, afetando as interações tritróficas. A compreensão dessas interações é crucial para o desenvolvimento de estratégias de manejo e conservação eficazes para proteger os ecossistemas terrestres. O objetivo geral deste trabalho foi investigar os mecanismos químicos de interação entre insetos e plantas em um projeto de intervenção pedagógica em ecologia química, visando compreender essas interações e seus impactos ambientais. Desdobrando-se em três objetivos específicos, tais quais: identificar os principais compostos químicos nessas interações por meio de revisão bibliográfica, avaliar o impacto das atividades pedagógicas na compreensão dos alunos usando questionários antes e depois das atividades, e analisar os resultados para verificar a eficácia das estratégias utilizadas e sua contribuição para o entendimento dos participantes sobre os mecanismos de interação inseto-planta. O trabalho adota uma abordagem qualitativa, buscando compreender fenômenos sociais e humanos, com flexibilidade metodológica para adaptações conforme a necessidade do estudo. Classificado como pesquisa exploratória, visa à familiarização com o problema e geração de insights para investigações mais aprofundadas. Utilizou-se da pesquisa bibliográfica para embasar teoricamente o estudo e promover mudanças na realidade estudada. O projeto de intervenção incluiu atividades como apresentações, questionários, extração e identificação de compostos químicos, culminando na análise das respostas para avaliação do impacto.
O PROGRAMA MAIS MÉDICOS: UMA ANÁLISE DAS DESISTÊNCIAS DOS MÉDICOS PARTICIPANTES
Authors: Padilha Fonseca Lia , Aparecida da Rocha Silva Mônica , Gracio Heber Rogério
Published: December 2024

Este estudo analisa as desistências dos médicos participantes do Programa Mais Médicos para o Brasil (PMMB), uma iniciativa do Governo Federal focada na melhoria do atendimento no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Desde sua implementação, o programa tem enfrentado desafios para reter profissionais em áreas de difícil provimento. A pesquisa revela que a maior parte das desistências ocorre entre médicos recém-formados que abandonam o programa para ingressar em residências médicas, evidenciando a necessidade de valorização da formação em Medicina de Família e Comunidade. As taxas de desistência variam entre os perfis de médicos, sendo notável a rotatividade mais alta entre o perfil CRM Brasil. O estudo também aponta que a análise das justificativas para desistências pode fornecer informações cruciais para o desenvolvimento de estratégias eficazes, promovendo a permanência desses profissionais nas regiões mais vulneráveis. As implicações deste trabalho são significativas para a formulação de políticas públicas que garantam melhor acesso à saúde, além de contribuir para a elaboração de medidas que incentivem a fixação e a satisfação dos médicos nas áreas mais necessitadas.
Pengaruh Jumlah Usaha Industri dan Jumlah Nilai Investasi Terhadap Jumlah Tenaga Kerja di Sleman Menggunakan Analisis Regresi Linear Berganda
Authors: Jihan Zulfa Nada  , Raden Bagus Fajriya Hakim Raden Bagus
Published: December 2024

Faktor pertumbuhan industri dapat dilihat dengan melihat jumlah tenaga kerja, jumlah usaha industri, dan jumlah nilai investasi. Dari 3 faktor tersebut, peneliti ingin mengetahui hubungan variabel satu sama lain. Data yang digunakan adalah data faktor pertumbuhan industri di Sleman. Dalam Penelitian ini, peneliti menggunakan analisis regresi beraganda. Untuk variabel dependennya adalah jumlah tenaga kerja. Untuk variabel independennya adalah jumlah usaha industri dan jumlah nilai investasi. Koefisien regresi pada variabel usaha industri (X1) bernilai positif, artinya setiap terjadi penambahan jumlah usaha industri di Kabupaten Sleman maka jumlah tenaga kerja akan meningkat. Sedangkan pada koefisien regresi pada variabel nilai investasi (X2) bernilai negatif, artinya setiap ada perubahan pada jumlah nilai investasi maka tidak menunjukan perubahan pada jumlah tenaga kerja di Kabupaten Sleman.
Autonomous Real–Time Mass Center Location and Inertia Identification for Grappling Space Robotics
Authors: Sands Timothy
Published: December 2024

Grappling actions by space robots for the purposes of stabilizing, refueling, repair, and equipment replacement necessitate autonomous abilities of a single grappling space robot to rapidly contend with large variations in total system inertia rapidly shifting system center of mass, as targets can be massive with possibly unknown or poorly known mass inertia properties. Proposing time–varying inertia identification yields opportunities for novel online calculation of time–varying location of the combined system’s center of mass. Two–norm optimal nonlinear, projection regression–based learning is implemented and juxtaposed to a comparative benchmark both qualitatively and quantitatively supported by a comparison of enhancements of Luenberger observers. Following analytical development, simulations are used to verify the design, and then spaceflight experiments are proposed for the sequel to validate the simulation results. Time–varying mass locations are discerned, and the time–varying location of the mass center is revealed to be 36–95 percent different than initially assumed, and 58–317 percent corrections to inertia identification is demonstrated. Combined three–dimensional maneuvers obscure identification compared to single–axis maneuvering.
Universal First Trimester Screening Biomarkers for Diagnosis of Preeclampsia and Placenta Accreta Spectrum
Authors: Timofeeva Angelika V. , Fedorov Ivan S. , Tarasova Alla M. , Sukhova Yuliya V. , Kolod'ko Vyacheslav G. , Ivanets Tatyana Y. , Sukhikh Gennady T.
Published: December 2024

Background: Disruptions in epigenetic mechanisms regulating placentation, particularly imbal-ances in the levels of small non-coding RNAs, contribute to various pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE) and placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). Given that abnormal trophoblast differentiation, invasiveness, and angiogenesis—reduced in PE and excessive in PAS—are central to the pathogenesis of these conditions, this study aims to identify universal circulating piRNAs and their targets.
Methods: Small RNA deep sequencing, quantitative reverse transcription combined with real-time polymerase chain reaction, magnetic bead-based multiplex immunoassay, ELISA, and Western blotting were employed to quantify circulating piRNAs and proteins in the blood serum of pregnant women during the 11th–14th weeks of gestation.
Results: Statistically significant negative correlations were identified between PE- and PAS-associated piRNAs (hsa_piR_019122, hsa_piR_020497, hsa_piR_019949, piR_019675) and sev-eral molecules, including Endoglin, IL-18, VEGF-A, VEGF-C, Angiopoietin-2, sFASL, HB-EGF, TGFα, and Clusterin. These molecules are involved in processes such as angiogenesis, inflam-mation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cell proliferation, adhesion, and apoptosis. A first-trimester pregnancy screening algorithm was developed using logistic regression models based on Clusterin concentration and the levels of hsa_piR_020497, hsa_piR_019949, piR_019675, and hsa_piR_019122.
Conclusions: The proposed screening tool for early pregnancy monitoring may enable the prediction of PE or PAS in the first trimester, allowing timely interventions to reduce maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.
Interactions Between Business Cycles, Financial Cycles and Monetary Policy in South Africa: A Unified Macroeconomic Framework
Authors: Nyati Malibongwe Cyprian , Muzindutsi Paul-Francois , Tipoy Christian Kakese
Published: December 2024

Prior to the 2007 – 2009 Global Financial Crises, it was generally agreed that financial factors played no significant role in Business Cycle models. However, the aftermath of the 2007 – 2009 Global Financial crises and the amount of costs imposed on different economies, made it apparent that financial factors play a much more significant role in macroeconomic dynamics than previously anticipated. Consequently, this article assessed the role of financial factors in Business cycle models and the possibility of a unified macroeconomic framework for South Africa. The generalised method of moments and the multiple equation generalised method of moments models were used to examine the interactions between financial cycles, Business cycles and Monetary policy in South Africa through the incorporation of a Composite Financial Cycle Index into a four-equation New Keynesian model. The results revealed that the financial cycle plays a significant role in Business cycle models, and a financial cycle shock has become the main driving force of macroeconomic fluctuations in South Africa. This study is the first to have used a composite index to measure a financial cycle and its relationship with business cycles and monetary policy in South Africa. While a composite index was constructed as an improved version of the current South African financial cycle, this study further proposed a unified framework for macroeconomic policy analyses in South Africa.
Phage vB_KlebPS_265 Active Against Resistant/MDR and Hypermucoid K2 Strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Yakubovskij Vyacheslav I. , Morozova Vera V , Kozlova Yuliya N. , Tikunov Artem Yu. , Zhirakovskaya Elena V. , Fedorets Valeria A. , Babkin Igor V , Bardasheva Alevtina V. , Tikunova Nina V.
Published: December 2024

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important opportunistic pathogen often resistant to antibiotics. Specif-ic phages can be useful in eliminating infection caused by K pneumoniae. Klebsiella phage vB_KlebPS_265 (KlebP_265) and its host strain were isolated from the sputum of a patient with Klebsiella infection. KlebP_265 was specific mainly to K. pneumoniae type K2 strains including hypermucoid strains. Most of the hypermucoid KlebP_265-susceptible strains were antibiotic-resistant. This siphophage demonstrated good lytic activity and stability. The KlebP_265 genome was 46,962 bp and contained 88 putative genes; functions were predicted for 37 of them. No genes encoding integrases, toxins, or antibiotic resistance were found in the genome. So, KlebP_265 could potentially be a therapeutic phage. Comparative analysis indicated that KlebP_265 with the most relative Klebsiella phage DP01 formed the putative Dipiunovirus genus. Genome analysis revealed a large monophyletic group of phages related to KlebP_265 and DP01. This group is divided into two monophyletic clusters of phages forming new putative subfamilies Skatevirinae and Roufvirinae. Phylogenetic analysis showed extensive gene exchange between phages from the putative subfamilies. Horizontal transfer even involved conservative genes and led to clear genomic mosaicism, indicating multiple recombination events in the an-cestral phages during evolution.
Estimating the Potential for Rooftop Generation of Solar Energy in an Urban Context Using High-Resolution Open Access Geospatial Data: A Case Study of the City of Tromsø, Norway
Authors: Rees Gareth , Hebryn-Baidy Liliia , Good Clara
Published: December 2024

An increasing trend towards the installation of photovoltaic solar energy generation capacity is driven by several factors including the desire for greater energy independence and, especially, the desire to decarbonize industrial economies. While large ‘solar farms’ can be installed in relatively open areas, urban environments also offer scope for significant energy generation, although the heterogeneous nature of the surface of the urban fabric complicates the task of forming an area-wide view of this potential. In this study, we investigate the potential offered by publicly available airborne LiDAR data, augmented using data from OpenStreetMap, to estimate rooftop PV generation capacities from individual buildings and regionalized across an entire small city. We focus on the city of Tromsø, Norway, which is located far north of the Arctic Circle in a region not usually assumed to be suitable for solar energy generation and demonstrate that the city is potentially capable of generating a significant fraction of its electricity demand in this way. Regional averages within the city show significant variations in potential energy generation.
Geology, Hydrothermal Alteration and Geochemistry of the Iamalele Geothermal System, D’Entrecasteaux Islands, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Smith Ian Ernest Masterman , Mitchell Peter Ashley
Published: December 2024

The geothermal system at Iamalele in the D’Entrecasteaux Islands of southeastern Papua is hosted by late Quaternary high-silica ignimbrite, air-fall tuff and associated volcaniclastic rocks together with lava flows and domes. These volcanic rocks are part of the subduction-related Papuan Arc and are interpreted as the eruption products from a caldera. Whole rock chemical compositions range from andesite to rhyolite; the occurrence of rhyolitic rocks is a unique feature within in the Papuan Arc. Geothermal activity occurs over 30 km3 of the Iamalele area. Chemical analyses of hot spring discharges indicate a near-surface acid sulphate fluid and a deeper reservoir that probably has a significant seawater component. Hydrothermal alteration identified in a ~200 m drill core indicates that the geothermal reservoir is well-zoned and contains trace element signatures characteristic ofshallow epithermal precious metal deposits. With increasing depth there are mineral assemblages characteristic of advanced argillic, intermediate argillic and potassic alteration. The presence of an active geothermal system within a caldera structure raises the possibility of large-scale explosive volcanic activity in southeastern Papua which needs to be factored into future hazard assessment in the area.
Strategies to Overcome Intrinsic and Acquired Resistance to Chemoradiotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: de Bakker Tycho , Maes Anouk , Dragan Tatiana , Martinive Philippe , Penninckx Sebastien , Van Gestel Dirk
Published: December 2024

Definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is a cornerstone of treatment for locoregionally advanced head and neck cancer (HNC). Research is ongoing on how to improve the tumor response to treatment and limit normal tissue toxicity. A major limitation in that regard is the growing number of intrinsic or acquired treatment resistance in advanced cases. In this review, we will discuss how overexpression of efflux pumps, perturbation of apoptosis-related factors, increased expression of antioxidants, glucose metabolism, metallotheionein expression, increased DNA repair, cancer stem cells, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, non-coding RNA and the tumour microenvironment contribute towards resistance of HNC to chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. These mechanisms have been investigated for years and been exploited for therapeutic gain in resistant patients, paving the way to the development of new promising drugs. Since in vitro studies on resistance requires a suitable model, we will also summarize published techniques and treatment schedules that have been shown to generate acquired resistance to chemo- and/or radiotherapy that most closely mimics the clinical scenario.
Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Wound-Healing Properties of Extracts of Botryocladia leptopoda
Authors: Lin Shin-Ping , Yi Tsung-Kai , Kao Yi-Feng , Tu Ming-Chieh , Hsieh Chen-Che , Chou Yu-Chieh , Lu Jheng-Jhe , Santoso Shella Permatasari , Lin Hui-Wen , Chai Huey-Jine , Cheng Kuan-Chen
Published: December 2024

Wound healing is a complex process involving coordinated actions of multiple cell types. Therefore, when developing therapeutics to promote wound healing, it is essential to consider the synergistic contributions of various cells at different stages of the healing process. In this study, we evaluated the potential of different extracts of Botryocladia leptopoda as wound-healing agents by examining their effects on antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, cell migration, anti-inflammatory properties, and expressions of specific biomarkers associated with wound healing. Results indicated that the ethanol extract (FE) and alkaline extract (AE) showed great antioxidation abilities against DPPH and FICA. In addition, the FE and AE provided anti-inflammatory actions that inhibited tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 cells. Further analyses suggested that the FE and AE enhanced cell proliferation and migration, and regulated would healing-related genes including matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1), MMP2, MMP9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP2) to avoid scar formation and accelerate wound healing. Taken together, these findings indicated that the FE and AE from B. leptopoda exhibited remarkable in vitro wound-healing properties, highlighting their potential for applications in pharmaceutical industries and health food development.
Poly-γ-Glutamic Acid from a Novel Bacillus subtilis Strain: Strengthening Skin Barrier and Improving Moisture Retention in Keratinocytes and a Reconstructed Skin Model
Authors: Ko Hyun-Ju , Park SeaA , Shin Eunjin , Kim Jinhwa , Lee Geun Soo , Park Sung Min , Lee Jungno , Hyun Chang-Gu
Published: December 2024

A novel Bacillus subtilis HB-31 strain was isolated from Gotjawal Wetland in Jeju Island, Republic of Korea. A mucus substance produced by this strain was identified as high-molecular weight poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) using NMR, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and size-exclusion chromatography/multi-angle light scattering analyses. We evaluated whether γ-PGA improved the skin barrier using keratinocytes and reconstructed skin models. In keratinocytes, γ-PGA treatment increased mRNA expression of skin barrier markers, including filaggrin, involucrin, loricrin, serine palmitoyl transferase, fatty acid synthase, and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, dose-dependently. γ-PGA also enhanced hyaluronic acid synthesis by upregulating hyaluronic acid synthase-1,-2,and -3 mRNA levels and promoted aquaporin 3 expression, involved in skin hydration. In reconstructed skin models, 1% γ-PGA topical application elevated filaggrin, involucrin, CD44, and aquaporin 3 expression compared to the control. These results suggest that the newly isolated HB-31 can be used as a commercial production system of high-molecular weight γ-PGA, which can be an effective in-gredient for improving skin barrier and moisture. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of γ-PGA on skin health and its application in treating skin disorders.
Colorimetric Detection of Dopamine Based on Peroxidase-Like Activity of β-CD Functionalized AuNPs
Authors: Anderson Sara , Shepherd Hamish , Boggavarapu Kiran , Paudyal Janak
Published: December 2024

Catalytically active nanomaterials, or nanozymes, have gained significant attention as alternatives to natural enzymes due to their low cost, ease of preparation, and enhanced stability. Because of easy preparation, excellent biocompatibility, and unique optoelectronic properties, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have attracted increasing attention in many ﬁelds, including nanozymes. In this work, we demonstrated the applicability of β-CD-AuNPs as enzyme mimics for different substances, including TMB and DA. We found that β-CD-AuNPs can catalyze the H2O2-mediated oxidation of DA. The dopamine signal-off sensor was developed by taking advantage of the peroxidase-like activity of β-CD-AuNPs towards TMB and DA, where both TMB and DA may compete for the binding sites with β-CD-AuNPs. As a result, the presence of dopamine can be detected even through the naked eye (up to a concentration of 3.75 µM) and using a spectrophotometer (up to a concentration of 1.0 µM) by monitoring the disappearance of the blue color of the oxidized form of TMB in the presence of dopamine. Furthermore, dopamine can also be detected in equal concentrations of common interferences, including ascorbic acid and uric acid. Given the versatility of cyclodextrin to host large number of analyte molecules, we envision the similar principle can be applied for the detection of other analyte molecules of biological, medical and environmental significance.
Essential Organizing and Evolving Atmospheric Mechanisms Affecting the East Bay Hills Fire in Oakland, CA (1991)
Authors: Agyakwah William , Lin Yuh-Lang , Kaplan Michael L.
Published: December 2024

This study examined atmospheric mechanisms affecting the East Bay Hills Fire (1991) in Oakland, California, using the Advanced Weather Research and Forecasting numerical model (WRF) and North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR) dataset. High-resolution WRF simulations at 16km were downscaled to 4km and 1km to analyze primary and secondary circulations at synoptic and meso-α/meso-β scales before the fire. Findings indicate that a ridge over the Great Basin and a trough off the Pacific coast created a strong pressure gradient over northern California, resulting in favorable meso-α conditions for the hot, dry northeasterly winds, known as "Diablo winds," that initiated the wildfire. Additionally, mountain waves from the jet stream enhanced the sinking air on the Sierra Nevada's western side. The main conclusion is that jet circulations did not directly transport warm, dry air to the fire but established a vertical atmospheric structure conducive to wave amplification and breaking, and downward dry air fluxes, leading to the necessary warm and dry low-level air for the fire. The Hot-Dry-Windy (HDW) fire weather index also indicated how favorable the environment was for this tragic event.
Genetic Diversity and Spatiotemporal Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 Variants in Guinea: An Analysis of Sequence Data (2020-2023)
Authors: Gnimadi Thibaut Armel Chérif , Kadio Kadio Jean-Jacques Olivier , Mathew Mano Joseph , Diallo Haby , Soumah Abdoul Karim , Keita Alpha Kabiné , Hounmenou Castro Gbêmêmali , Fernandez-Nuñez Nicolas , Vidal Nicole , Guichet Emilande , Ayouba Ahidjo , Delaporte Eric , Peeters Martine , Touré Abdoulaye , Keita Alpha Kabinet
Published: December 2024

In Guinea, genomic surveillance has been established to generate sequences and identify locally circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants. This study aims to describe the distribution, genetic diversity, evolution, and origin of SARS-CoV-2 lineages circulating in Guinea during the COVID-19 pandemic. We performed a migration analysis by selecting all sequences generated in Guinea for variants of concern and interest. From March 2020 to December 2023, a total of 1 038 sequences were generated in Guinea and submitted to the GISAID database. Of the total, 73.1% corresponded to SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, including (omicron 69, 4%, delta 21,9%, alpha 6,6%, and eta 2,1%). Other variants, accounting for 26,9%. Of the total number of variants analyzed, 75 importations into Guinea from various countries around the world were identified. The majority of introductions (40%) were from African countries, followed by 25,3% from European countries, and Asia (18,6%). A significant migratory flow has been observed within Guinea. Genomic surveillance has revealed the diversity of SARS-CoV-2 variants circulating in Guinea, highlighting the importance of sequence generation for advanced analysis to understand the dynamics of the pandemic.
Complete Mitochondrial Genomes of Polydactylus macrochir (Günther, 1867): Genome Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Wen Jiufu
Published: December 2024

Polydactylus macrochir (Günther, 1867) is a number of family Polynemidae. The placement of the Polynemidae among teleosts has varied over the years. Therefore, in this study we sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of P. macrochir, analyzed the characterization of the mito-chondrial genome, and investigated the phylogenetic relationships of Polynemidae. The lengths of the P. macrochir mitogenomes was 16,738 bp with the typical order. Nucleotide composition analysis showed that P. macrochir mitogenome was AT biased (54.15%), and the PCGs tended to use A and C than T and G at the third codon. All the PCGs started with the regular codon ATG, except for the cox1 which started with GTG. The termination codon varied across PCGs. It was shown that the ka/ks ratios of all PCGs were less than 1. The phylogenetic analysis, based on the maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods, indicated that 8 Threadfins spe-cies formed a well-supported monophyletic cluster. Polynemidae and Sphyraenidae clustered together as a monophyletic group. According to TimeTree analyses, the most recent common ancestor (MRCA) of Polynemidae was traced back to about 52.81 million years ago (MYA), while 6 species within Polynemidae diverged from 11.70 MYA to 20.05 MYA. The present study provides valuable mitochondrial information for the classiffcation of P. macrochir and new insights in phylogenetic relationships of Polynemidae.
Function and Modulation of Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptors in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Gulliksen Elizabeth , Darsi Sriya , Haidarbaigi Ladan , Codispoti Lucas J , Purohit Devam , Jung Ashley , Chilamula Aishwarya , Newton Jason
Published: December 2024

Sphingolipids, first discovered in the 1874 by Johann Thudicum, are one of the 8 recognized classes of lipids and are present in essentially all plants, animals, and fungi as well as some viruses and prokaryotes. In mammals’ sphingolipids are enriched in the central nervous system (CNS) where they play vital roles in tissue development, membrane structure, cell adhesion and recognition, and importantly signaling. A subset of sphingolipids has been shown to have bioactive properties including ceramide, glucosylceramide, and sphingosine but two sphingolipids in particular (ceramide-1-phosphate and sphingosine-1-phosphate) have been shown to exert their effects at least in part due to activation of cell surface expressed G protein-coupled receptors. In the CNS sphingosine-1-phosphate signaling in particular has emerged as a productive therapeutic target for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease, with the first small molecule targeting sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors approved roughly 15 years ago for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. As more specific activators and inhibitors of these receptors have been developed and entered the clinical trial pipeline it is an appropriate time to examine the current state of our knowledge of the role that these receptors play in the CNS and highlight the current landscape of available modulators targeting these pathways.
Glutaminase-2 Expression Induces Metabolic Changes and Regulates Pyruvate Dehydrogenase activity in Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: De los Santos-Jiménez Juan , Campos-Sandoval José A. , Rosales Tracy , Ko Bookyung , Alonso Francisco J. , Márquez Javier , DeBerardinis Ralph J. , Matés José M.
Published: December 2024

Glutaminase controls the first step in glutaminolysis, impacting bioenergetics, biosynthesis and oxidative stress balance. Two isoenzymes exist in humans, GLS and GLS2. GLS is considered prooncogenic and overexpressed in many tumours, while GLS2 may act as both prooncogenic or as a tumour suppressor. Glioblastoma cells usually lack GLS2 while express high GLS. We aimed to investigate how GLS2 expression modifies the metabolism of glioblastoma cells, looking for changes that may explain GLS2’s potential tumour suppressive role. We developed LN-229 human glioblastoma cells stably expressing GLS2 and performed isotope tracing using U-13C-glutamine and metabolomic quantification to analyse metabolic changes. Treatment with the GLS inhibitor CB-839 was also included to concomitantly inhibit endogenous GLS activity. GLS2 overexpression resulted in extensive metabolic changes, altering the TCA cycle in an isoenzyme-specific and previously unsuspected way, by upregulating part of the cycle but blocking the synthesis of the 6-carbon intermediates from acetyl-CoA. Expression of GLS2 caused downregulation of PDH activity through phosphorylation of S293 of PDHA1. GLS2 also altered nucleotide levels as well as induced the accumulation of methylated metabolites and methyl donor S-adenosyl methionine. These changes suggest that GLS2 may be a key regulator linking glutamine and glucose metabolism, also impacting nucleotides and epigenetics.
Palladium (II)-Catalyzed 2-(Phenylseleninyl) quinoxalines Synthesis via a Tandem Reaction of C-S Bond Direct Cross-Coupling/Sulfonylation
Authors: Xu Runsheng , Xu Jin , Hu Jiahao , Wang Rui
Published: December 2024

A palladium (II)-catalyzed tandem reaction of C-S bond direct cross-coupling/sulfonylation has been developed. Starting from substituted quinoxalines and substituted phenylthiophenols versatile biologically active 2-(phenylsulfinyl)-6,7-dihydroquinoxaline derivatives and 1-methyl-2-(phenylsulfinyl)-1H-pyrrole derivatives were efficiently synthesized. The reaction mechanism was studied by the deuterium isotope experiments. This protocol features were under mild reaction conditions, wider substrate scope and provides an economical approach toward C(sp2)-sulfoxide bond formation.