bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid In-Field Detection of Airborne Pathogens Using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP)
Authors: Bani Alessia , Whitby Corinne , Colbeck Ian , Dumbrell Alex J. , Ferguson Robert M. W.
Published: December 2024

Multiple human and plant pathogens are dispersed and transmitted as bioaerosols (e.g., Mycobacterium tuberculosis, SARS-CoV-2, Legionella pneumophila, Aspergillus fumigatus, Phytophthora spp., and Fusarium graminearum). Rapid, on-site methods to detect airborne pathogens would greatly enhance our ability to monitor exposure and trigger early mitigation measures across different settings. Analysis of air samples for microorganisms in a regulatory context is often based on culture-based methods, which are slow, lack specificity, and are not suitable for detecting viruses. Molecular methods (based on nucleic acids) could overcome these challenges. For example, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is rapid, sensitive, specific, and may detect microbial pathogens from air samples in under 60 min. However, the low biomass in air samples makes recovering sufficient nucleic acids for detection challenging. To overcome this, we present a simple method for concentrating bioaerosols collected through liquid impingement (one of the most common methods for bioaerosol collection). This method paired with LAMP (or other molecular approaches) offers simple, rapid, and sensitive detection of pathogens. We validated this method using three airborne pathogens (Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Legionella pneumophila, and Aspergillus fumigatus), and we were able to detect fewer than five cells in a 15 mL liquid impinger air sample in under 60 min. This simple method offers rapid pathogen detection without the use of specialist equipment, and it can be used across healthcare, education, environmental monitoring, and military settings.
Utilizing Headspace–Gas Chromatography–Ion Mobility Spectroscopy Technology to Establish the Volatile Chemical Component Fingerprint Profiles of Schisandra chinensis Processed by Different Preparation Methods and to Perform Differential Analysis of Their Components
Authors: Yan Yiping , Sun Bowei , Wang Mengqi , Wang Yanli , Yang Yiming , Zhang Baoxiang , Sun Yining , Yuan Pengqiang , Wen Jinli , He Yanli , Cao Weiyu , Lu Wenpeng , Xu Peilei
Published: December 2024

In order to characterize the volatile chemical components of Schisandra chinensis processed by different Traditional Chinese Medicine Processing methods and establish fingerprint profiles, headspace–gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) technology was employed to detect, identify, and analyze Schisandra chinensis processed by five different methods. Fingerprint profiles of volatile chemical components of Schisandra chinensis processed by different methods were established; a total of 85 different volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were detected in the experiment, including esters, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, terpenes, olefinic compounds, nitrogen compounds, lactones, pyrazines, sulfur compounds, thiophenes, acid, and thiazoles. Principal component analysis (PCA), Orthogonal Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA), and Pearson correlation analysis methods were used to cluster and analyze the detected chemical substances and their contents. The analysis results showed significant differences in the volatile chemical components of Schisandra chinensis processed by different methods; the Variable Importance in Projection (VIP) values of the OPLS-DA model and the P values obtained from one-way ANOVA were used to score and screen the detected volatile chemical substances, resulting in the identification of five significant chemical substances with the highest VIP values: Alpha-Farnesene, Methyl acetate,1-octene, Ethyl butanoate, and citral. These substances will serve as marker compounds for the identification of Schisandra chinensis processed by different methods in the future.
Adaptive Laboratory Evolution of Flavin Functionality Identifies Dihydrolipoyl Dehydrogenase as One of the Critical Points for the Activity of 7,8-Didemethyl-Riboflavin as a Surrogate for Riboflavin in Escherichia coli
Authors: La-Rostami Farshad , Scharf Alexandra , Albert Chenyang , Wax Nils , Creydt Marina , Illarionov Boris , Bacher Adelbert , Weber Stefan , Fischer Markus
Published: December 2024

Riboflavin analogs lacking one methyl group (7α or 8α) can still serve as a surrogate for riboflavin in riboflavin-deficient microorganisms or animals. The absence of both methyl groups at once completely abolishes this substitution capability. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms behind this phenomenon, we performed an adaptive laboratory evolution experiment (in triplicate) on an E. coli strain auxotrophic for riboflavin. As a result, the riboflavin requirement of the E. coli strain was reduced ~10-fold in the presence of 7,8-didemethyl-riboflavin. The whole genome sequencing of E. coli strains isolated from three experiments revealed two mutation hotspots: lpdA coding for the flavoenzyme dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase (LpdA), and ompF coding for the major outer membrane protein. In order to investigate the essentiality of flavin’s methyl groups to LpdA, the wild type and mutant variants of lpdA were cloned. At least two lpdA mutants increased the fitness of E. coli, and when 7,8-didemethyl-flavin was added to the growth medium, the increase was significant. To the best of our knowledge, an adaptive laboratory evolution experiment running in triplicate as a tool for the identification of mutation hotspots in the genome of microorganisms exposed to metabolic stress challenges is described here for the first time.
Hybrid RNA/DNA Concatemers and Self-Limited Complexes: Structure and Prospects for Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Kanarskaya Maria A. , Novikova Sofia V. , Lomzov Alexander A.
Published: December 2024

The development of new convenient tools for the design of multicomponent nucleic acid (NA) complexes is one of the challenges in biomedicine and NA nanotechnology. In this paper, we analyzed the formation of hybrid RNA/DNA concatemers and self-limited complexes by a pair of oligonucleotides using UV melting, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and a gel shift assay. Effects of the size of the linker between duplex-forming segments of the oligonucleotides on complexes’ shape and number of subunits were compared and systematized for RNA/DNA, DNA/DNA, and RNA/RNA assemblies. The data on complex types summarized here as heat maps offer a convenient tool for the design of NA constructs. General rules found for RNA/DNA, DNA/DNA, and RNA/RNA complexes allow not only designing complexes with desired structures but also purposefully transforming their geometry. The A-form of the double helix of the studied RNA/DNA complexes was confirmed by circular dichroism analysis. Moreover, we show for the first time efficient degradation of RNA in hybrid self-limited complexes by RNase H and imidazole. The results open up new prospects for the design of supramolecular complexes as tools for nanotechnology, nanomachinery, and biomedical applications.
Taurodeoxycholate Aggregation Explored by Molecular Dynamics: Primary-To-Secondary Micelle Transition and Formation of Mixed Micelles with Fatty Acids
Authors: Mustan Fatmegyul , Ivanova Anela , Tcholakova Slavka
Published: December 2024

Micelles formed by bile salts in aqueous solution are important for the solubilization of hydrophobic molecules in the gastrointestinal tract. The molecular level information about the mechanism and driving forces for primary-to-secondary micelle transition is still missing. In the current study, the micelle formation of 50 mM solutions of taurodeoxycholate (TDC) is studied by atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. It is shown that primary micelles with an aggregation number of 8–10 emerge and persist within the first 50 ns. Then, they coalesce to form secondary micelles with an aggregation number of 19 molecules. This transition is governed by hydrophobic interactions, which significantly decrease the solvent-accessible surface area per molecule in the secondary micelles. The addition of monomers of the sodium salt of fatty acids (FAs), as agents aiding hydrophobic drug delivery, to secondary TDC micelles results in the co-existence of mixed FA-TDC and pure FA micelles. The studied saturated FAs, with chain lengths of C14:0 and C18:0, are incorporated into the micelle core, whereas TDC molecules position themselves around the FAs, forming a shell on the micelle surface. In contrast, the tails of the C18:1 unsaturated fatty acid mix homogeneously with TDC molecules throughout the entire micelle volume. The latter creates a very suitable medium for hosting hydrophobic molecules in the micelles containing unsaturated fatty acids.
Relationship Between Elastic, Chemical, and Thermal Properties of SiO2 Flint Aggregate
Authors: Khouchaf Lahcen , Oufakir Abdelhamid
Published: December 2024

Understanding the relationship between elastic, chemical, and thermal properties is essential for the prevention of the behavior of SiO2 flint aggregates during their application. In fact, the elastic properties of silica depend on chemical and heat treatment. In order to identify the crystallite sizes for natural SiO2 before and after chemical treatment samples, Williamson–Hall plots and Scherer’s formulas are used. The silica nanofibers obtained and their microstructure changes under thermal and chemical treatment are characterized using different techniques (XRD, VP-SEM, TEM, FTIR, TDA, and TGA). Both the strains (ε) and the crystallite sizes (DW–H) are obtained from the slope and from the βcosθ-intercept of a graph, respectively. The crystalline quality is improved upon heating, as shown by the decrease in the FWHM of the SiO2(101) peaks, which is confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The microstrain estimated at 1.50 × 10−4 units for natural SiO2 is smaller than that for SiO2 after chemical attack which is estimated at 2.01 × 10−4 units. Based on the obtained results, SiO2 characterized with controlled micromechanical, thermal, and chemical properties may be used as a filler to improve the performance properties of the strength, microstructure, and durability of some composites.
From Tea to Functional Foods: Exploring Caryopteris mongolica Bunge for Anti-Rheumatoid Arthritis and Unraveling Its Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Dong Xin , Wang Zhi , Fu Yao , Tian Yuxin , Xue Peifeng , Wang Yuewu , Yang Feiyun , Li Guojing , Wang Ruigang
Published: December 2024

Background: Caryopteris mongolica Bunge (CM) shows promising potential for managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and digestive disorders, attributed to its rich content of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids. Despite its common use in herbal tea, the specific mechanisms underlying CM’s anti-inflammatory and joint-protective effects remain unclear, limiting its development as a functional food. This study investigated the effects of aqueous CM extract on RA in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats and explored the underlying mechanisms. Methods: Forty-eight female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to six groups (n = 8): normal control, CIA model, methotrexate (MTX), and CM high-, middle-, and low-dose groups. Anti-inflammatory and joint-protective effects were evaluated using biochemical and histological analyses. To elucidate the mechanisms, we applied metabolomics, network pharmacology, and transcriptomics approaches. Results: The results demonstrated that CM extract effectively suppressed synovial inflammation in CIA rats, reducing joint degradation. CM’s anti-inflammatory effects were mediated through the TNF signaling pathway, modulating glycerophospholipid and amino acid metabolism, including reduced levels of tryptophan, LysoPC, and asparagine. Molecular docking identified scutellarin and apigenin as key bioactive compounds. Additionally, immunofluorescence analysis revealed CM’s therapeutic effects via TNF signaling inhibition and suppression of M1 macrophage polarization. Conclusions: These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of CM for RA and support its development as a functional food or pharmaceutical product.
From Intact to Highly Degraded Mitochondrial Genes in Trypanosoma vivax: New Insights into Introduction from Africa and Adaptation to Exclusive Mechanical Transmission in South America
Authors: Garcia Herakles A. , Rodrigues Adriana C. , Rodrigues Carla M. F. , Florentin Andrea S. , Bethencourt Angélica M. , Reyna-Bello Armando , Chávez-Larrea María Augusta , Pereira Carlos L. , Bengaly Zacharia , Sheferaw Desie , Kato Agapitus B. , Paiva Fernando , Camargo Erney F. P. , Teixeira Marta M. G.
Published: December 2024

Trypanosoma vivax displays distinct mitochondrial genomes: intact in Africa and degraded in South America. This finding, formerly reported from four isolates, suggested an association between mitochondrial mutations and adaptation to exclusive mechanical transmission outside Africa, circumventing mitochondrial activity essential for cyclical transmission by tsetse flies. Here, we characterized the mitochondrial ND7 and COIII genes in 25 South American isolates of T. vivax from livestock from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela, as well as in 11 African isolates from Mozambique, Ethiopia, Uganda, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso from tsetse flies, antelopes, and cattle. Phylogenetic inference supported the lineages TVV (Trypanosoma vivax vivax) and TVL (Trypanosoma vivax-like), predominant in South America/West Africa and East Africa, respectively. Both ND7 and COIII genes were intact in all African TVV and TVL isolates and, for the first time, in 10 South American isolates from Brazil. Remaining South American isolates exhibited some degree of gene erosion, including ~142 bp deletion at the 3′ end of ND7 disclosed in Venezuela and Colombia, ~163 bp deletion at the 3′ end of ND7 in Brazil and Argentina, and ~750 bp deletion from the 5′ end of ND7 to the 3′ end of COIII in Venezuela. Comprehensive analyses of whole mitochondrial genomes from additional South American and African isolates are crucial for formulating reliable hypotheses regarding the origin, absence, and rapid mitochondrial degradation observed in South American T. vivax.
Communicology, Decoloniality, Chicana and Latina Phenomenology: Building Community Through Struggle
Authors: Martinez Jacqueline M.
Published: December 2024

The present work considers the communicative dimensions of intellectual practices in an effort to discern how these practices can take full account of their own placement within and accountability to the human communities and cultures they cultivate. The discussion is framed with a focus on intellectual communities who have struggled against the dominance of Euromodern epistemological orientations that have constructed their own cultures and intellectual practices as irrelevant or, at best inferior. This struggle is a decolonial praxis. The development of communicology during the post-World War II period in the United States is taken up as an approach to theory construction that allows for the fullest possible examination of the very human condition in which thought and action emerge. Chicana and Latina phenomenology constitute a further development of this decolonial praxis consonant with the sensibilities of communicology. Chicana and Latina phenomenology is shown to advance our understanding of philosophy as an intellectual (i.e., communicative) practice that takes place in a world of other human beings to whom we are accountable. Theory construction as it relates to boundary conditions is taken as an important point that spans the all too common gap between the existential and the cultural and aids in constituting a theory construction project that is also a decolonial praxis.
Chemically Reactive Micropolar Hybrid Nanofluid Flow over a Porous Surface in the Presence of an Inclined Magnetic Field and Radiation with Entropy Generation
Authors: Sachhin Sudha Mahanthesh , Ankitha Parashurampura Karibasavanaika , Sachin Gadhigeppa Myacher , Mahabaleshwar Ulavathi Shettar , Shevchuk Igor Vladimirovich , Nayakar Sunnapagutta Narasimhappa Ravichandra , Kadli Rachappa
Published: December 2024

The present study investigates the entropy generation of chemically reactive micropolar hybrid nanoparticle motion with mass transfer. Magnetic oxide (Fe3O4) and copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles were mixed in water to form a hybrid nanofluid. The governing equations for velocity, concentration, and temperature are transformed into ordinary differential equations along with the boundary conditions. In the fluid region, the heat balance is kept conservative with a source/sink that relies on the temperature. In the case of radiation, there is a differential equation along with several characteristic coefficients that transform hypergeometric and Kummer’s differential equations by a new variable. Furthermore, the results of the current problem can be discussed by implementing a graphical representation with different factors, namely the Brinkman number, porosity parameter, magnetic field, micropolar parameter, thermal radiation, Schmidt number, heat source/sink parameter, and mass transpiration. The results of this study are presented through graphical representations that depict various factors influencing the flow profiles and physical characteristics. The results reveal that an increase in the magnetic field leads to a reduction in velocity and entropy production. Furthermore, temperature and entropy generation rise with a stronger radiation parameter, whereas the Nusselt number experiences a decline. This study has several industrial applications in technology and manufacturing processes, including paper production, polymer extrusion, and the development of specialized materials.
Identification and Analysis of KAS II, FAT, SAD, and FAD Gene Families in Hippophae rhamnoides
Authors: Arkhipov Alexander A. , Dvorianinova Ekaterina M. , Turba Anastasia A. , Novakovskiy Roman O. , Zubarev Yury A. , Predushchenko Pavel A. , Sigova Elizaveta A. , Zhernova Daiana A. , Borkhert Elena V. , Pushkova Elena N. , Ruan Chengjiang , Melnikova Nataliya V. , Dmitriev Alexey A.
Published: December 2024

KAS II (β-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) synthases II), FAT (fatty acid thioesterases), SAD (stearoyl-ACP desaturase), and FAD (fatty acid desaturases) are the vital gene families involved in fatty acid (FA) synthesis in Hippophae rhamnoides L. However, information on the number and location of these genes and which ones are key to the formation of FAs in fruit seeds and pulp was not complete. Our study aimed to solve this issue using the available genomic sequences and transcriptome data that we obtained. We compared the protein sequences of sea buckthorn with those of Arabidopsis thaliana and checked for the presence of conserved domains. As a result of structure and phylogenetic analyses, 4 KAS II, 8 FAT, 9 SAD, and 12 FAD genes were identified in the H. rhamnoides genome, which were classified into subfamilies: KAS II, FATA, FATB, FAD2, FAD3, FAD6, and FAD7/8. To analyze the expression of the identified genes, we sequenced the transcriptomes of sea buckthorn seeds and fruit pulp at four development stages, as well as leaves. The analysis revealed representatives of the FAT, SAD, and FAD families with high tissue-and stage-specific expression in seeds and pulp. These genes are likely to play a key role in the biosynthesis of sea buckthorn FAs. The obtained results may help to establish the precise biosynthesis mechanisms of FAs and will promote the breeding of new sea buckthorn varieties that have oil with a defined FA composition.
Development and Characterization of Long-Acting Injectable Risperidone Microspheres Using Biodegradable Polymers: Formulation Optimization and Release Kinetics
Authors: Son Young Jin , Yun Tae Han , Lee Jeong Gyun , Bang Kyu Ho , Kim Kyeong Soo
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to develop a long-acting injectable formulation of risperidone using polylactic acid (PLA) or poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer. Risperidone microspheres (RMs) were prepared by creating an O/W emulsion using dichloromethane (DCM) as a solvent and then employing the solvent evaporation method. The RMs were prepared with four different risperidone-to-PLGA ratios (1:1, 1:1.3, 1:2, and 1:3 (w/w)), and each ratio was subjected to the same manufacturing process. The physicochemical properties of the prepared RMs, such as their shape, particle size, drug loading ratio, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro degradation profile, were evaluated. The particle size of the RMs ranged from 30 to 100 μm, with larger PLGA ratios resulting in larger RM sizes. The drug loading ratio was inversely proportional to the increase in the PLGA ratio in the RMs, and all the formulations showed improved release profiles compared to the reference drug, Risperdal Consta®. The release data modeling results showed that the RM-3 formulation with a 1:1 (w/w) ratio of risperidone and PLGA exhibited a release pattern close to zero-order kinetics. The manufactured RMs were confirmed to have the potential to be used as a long-acting risperidone injection with sustained and stable release as well as an extended dosing interval.
Degradation of Hydroxychloroquine from Aqueous Solutions Under Fenton-Assisted Electron Beam Treatment
Authors: Kabasa Stephen , Wang Shizong , Sun Yongxia , Wang Jianlong , Bulka Sylwester
Published: December 2024

Challenges in the treatment and removal of recalcitrant emerging organic pollutants in wastewater prompt the development of advanced oxidative processes (AOPs). Hydroxyl radicals are non-specific and capable of reacting with a diverse range of pollutants of emerging concern. In this study, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) was removed from aqueous solutions with removal efficiencies between 80 and 90%. The presence of H2O2, humic acid, and other inorganic ions negatively influenced the degradation efficiency. However, the presence of S2O82− was found to increase the removal efficiency, which was attributed to the formation of SO4•− in addition to •OH radicals. Additionally, Fenton-assisted electron beam treatment showed an improved removal of 2.88 × 10−4 M of HCQ with an average improvement of ≈10% at doses between 0.5 to 2.0 kGy in addition to the total organic carbon and chemical oxygen demand reduction. The H2O2 concentration and molar ratio of H2O2: Fe2+ influenced the removal capacity of the Fenton-assisted electron beam process. A degradation mechanism for HCQ has been proposed based on the reactions of •OH radicals and eaq−.
A Multi-Branch Deep Feature Fusion Network with SAE for Rare Earth Extraction Process Simulation
Authors: Xu Fangping , Zhu Jianyong , Wang Wei
Published: December 2024

The Rare Earth Extraction Process (REEP) model is difficult to accurately establish via the extraction mechanism method due to its high complexity. This paper proposes a multi-branch deep feature fusion network with SAE (SAE-MBDFFN) for modeling REEP. We first design a neural network with a multi-branch output structure to simulate the cascade REEP by introducing a multiscale feature fusion mechanism, which can simultaneously concatenate hidden features, original features, and inter-branch coupling features. In order to deal with insufficient labeled data during model training, we then adopt a stacked Sparse Auto-Encoder (SAE) technology to extract the hidden information of mass unlabeled data based on unsupervised learning. This technology can determine the initial parameters of SAE-MBDFFN by unsupervised pretraining. The design methodology of the network is well-founded. Experiments on industrial data indicate that the proposed method has the lowest initial loss value and a faster convergence rate in the fine-tuning stage than other comparison methods, while the prediction accuracy is better well. These results show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Beneath the Surface: Disentangling the Dynamic Network of the U.S. and BRIC Stock Markets’ Interrelations Amidst Turmoil
Authors: Chalissery Neenu , Nishad T. Mohamed , Naushad J. A. , Tabash Mosab I. , Al-Absy Mujeeb Saif Mohsen
Published: December 2024

The study examines the time-varying correlation and return spillover mechanism among developed (U.S.) and emerging (BRIC) stock markets during major crises from 2000 to 2023, namely the global financial crisis, COVID-19, and the Russia–Ukraine war. To do so, we used dynamic conditional correlation (DCC-GARCH) and time-varying parameter vector autoregression (TVP-VAR) models. This study finds that the nature of market crises plays a significant role in the interrelationship and return spillover mechanisms among the U.S. and BRIC stock markets. The interconnectedness of the stock markets was strengthened by crises such as the GFC and the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, the Russia–Ukraine war temporarily disrupted the interrelationships between the markets. The study yields valuable insight to local and international investors in portfolio diversification and risk management strategies during market turbulence.
Life Cycle Assessment of the Gasoline Supply Chain in Sri Lanka
Authors: Geethani Madhurika , Kulatunga Asela
Published: December 2024

The Sri Lankan transport sector still depends predominantly on petroleum fuels, mainly diesel and gasoline. Gasoline holds the second highest market share, and with the increasing number of gasoline-fueled vehicles, its proportion in the transport fuel mix is continuously expanding. The main objective of this study is to assess the ecological burden associated with the gasoline supply chain in Sri Lanka by conducting a life cycle assessment from a ‘well-to-tank’ perspective. In the scenario analysis, the environmental impacts of four potential gasoline distribution scenarios were assessed and compared with the existing distribution model. According to the results, the refining process was predominant, contributing more than 50% to climate change, terrestrial acidification, marine and freshwater eutrophication, human toxicity, and terrestrial and marine ecotoxicities. Meanwhile, crude oil extraction dominates in its contribution to ozone depletion, photochemical oxidant formation, freshwater ecotoxicity, and fossil depletion. The results of the scenario analysis show a remarkable reduction in the environmental load when rail transport is solely used to transfer gasoline from bulk terminals to regional depots. The reduction is over 65% in most impact categories compared to the existing distribution method, which involves a combination of both road and rail transport. This study identifies the key areas that need to be further analyzed to lower the environmental impacts while also establishing a foundation for conducting comparative environmental assessments of alternative fuel options in the Sri Lankan context.
BAE-ViT: An Efficient Multimodal Vision Transformer for Bone Age Estimation
Authors: Zhang Jinnian , Chen Weijie , Joshi Tanmayee , Zhang Xiaomin , Loh Po-Ling , Jog Varun , Bruce Richard J. , Garrett John W. , McMillan Alan B.
Published: December 2024

This research introduces BAE-ViT, a specialized vision transformer model developed for bone age estimation (BAE). This model is designed to efficiently merge image and sex data, a capability not present in traditional convolutional neural networks (CNNs). BAE-ViT employs a novel data fusion method to facilitate detailed interactions between visual and non-visual data by tokenizing non-visual information and concatenating all tokens (visual or non-visual) as the input to the model. The model underwent training on a large-scale dataset from the 2017 RSNA Pediatric Bone Age Machine Learning Challenge, where it exhibited commendable performance, particularly excelling in handling image distortions compared to existing models. The effectiveness of BAE-ViT was further affirmed through statistical analysis, demonstrating a strong correlation with the actual ground-truth labels. This study contributes to the field by showcasing the potential of vision transformers as a viable option for integrating multimodal data in medical imaging applications, specifically emphasizing their capacity to incorporate non-visual elements like sex information into the framework. This tokenization method not only demonstrates superior performance in this specific task but also offers a versatile framework for integrating multimodal data in medical imaging applications.
Application of Phosphate-Based Binders for the Stabilization and Solidification of Metal-Contaminated Soil: Mechanisms and Efficacy Evaluation
Authors: Xu Shiliang , Cheema Ayesha Imtiyaz , Zhang Yunhui , Dong Bin
Published: December 2024

At present, contamination due to toxic metals is a global concern. The management of problems caused by heavy metals relies on stabilization/solidification, which is the most effective technique for the control of metal pollution in soil. This study examined the immobilization efficiency of various phosphate-based binders (Na3PO4, Na2HPO4, NaH2PO4), in addition to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), MgO, and CaO, for the stabilization of multi-metal-contaminated soils. Moreover, this study focused on the leachability of copper, nickel, zinc, lead, cadmium, and manganese (Cu, Ni, Zn, Pb, Cd, Mn, respectively) over different time periods and with different concentrations. Batch leaching experiments were conducted to determine the leaching ratios and percentages of the various metal concentrations, along with measuring the pH values of the leachates. Our results indicate that the use of OPC was validated due to its superior immobilization performance across all metals present in the soil, but particularly with regard to metals in high concentrations. This was due to the formation of stable hydroxides and the high pH values, which assisted in abating the metals’ solubility. Additionally, phosphate-based binders, despite being environmentally favorable, were found to be less effective, particularly for Pb and Cu, and the leaching results exceeded non-hazardous waste limits. MgO showed reasonable immobilization results but was less effective compared to OPC; on the other hand, CaO exhibited increased leaching over time. Therefore, the present research serves primarily to highlight that OPC is more suitable for soil remediation at industrial sites and in the construction of infrastructure. Meanwhile, phosphate-based binders are shown to be more appropriate for eco-friendly, non-load-bearing applications.
Double Deletion of EP402R and EP153R in the Attenuated Lv17/WB/Rie1 African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) Enhances Safety, Provides DIVA Compatibility, and Confers Complete Protection Against a Genotype II Virulent Strain
Authors: Gallardo Carmina , Mészáros István , Soler Alejandro , Fernandez-Pinero Jovita , van den Born Erwin , Simón Alicia , Casado Nadia , Nieto Raquel , Perez Covadonga , Aldea Irene , Lopez-Chavarrias Vicente , Göltl Eszter , Olasz Ferenc , Magyar Tibor , Zádori Zoltán , Sánchez-Vizcaíno José Manuel , Arias Marisa
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a devastating disease affecting domestic and wild suids and causing significant economic losses in the global pig industry. Attenuated modified live virus (MLV) vaccines are the most promising approaches for vaccine development. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of four recombinant ASFV genotype II strains, derived from the non-hemadsorbing (non-HAD) attenuated isolate Lv17/WB/Rie1, through the single or simultaneous deletion of virulence-associated genes. Methods: Recombinant viruses were engineered by deleting the UK, EP402R, and EP153R genes, either individually or in combination. Four recombinant strains were evaluated for safety and efficacy in domestic pigs vaccinated intramuscularly with 102 TCID₅₀. Clinical signs, viremia, virus shedding, and antibody responses were monitored. Protection efficacy was assessed by challenging vaccinated pigs with the virulent genotype II Armenia07 strain. Additionally, a reversion-to-virulence study involving an overdose of the vaccine candidate was conducted to evaluate its stability through serial immunizations. Results: Deletion of the UK gene alone increased virulence, whereas the double deletion of EP402R and EP153R (Lv17/WB/Rie1-ΔCD) significantly enhanced safety while maintaining full protective efficacy. Vaccinated pigs exhibited reduced viremia, no virus shedding, and robust virus-specific antibody responses, achieving complete protection against Armenia07. The reversion-to-virulence study revealed potential but limited pathogenicity after multiple passages, indicating areas for improvement in vaccine stability. Conclusions: The Lv17/WB/Rie1-ΔCD strain demonstrates excellent safety and efficacy, along with potential DIVA (differentiating infected from vaccinated animals) compatibility, positioning it as a strong candidate for an ASFV MLV vaccine. Further research is needed to refine the vaccine and address the potential risks of reversion to virulence.
Identification of a New Conserved Antigenic Epitope by Specific Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting the African Swine Fever Virus Capsid Protein p17
Authors: Xia Nengwen , Cao Qi , Liu Anjing , Zhang Jiajia , Han Hongjian , Jiao Jun , He Ping , Sun Ziyan , Xu Zijian , Zheng Wanglong , Jiang Sen , Chen Nanhua , Bai Jianfa , Zhu Jianzhong
Published: December 2024

African swine fever (ASF) has widely spread around the world in the last 100 years since its discovery. The African swine fever virus (ASFV) particles are made of more than 150 proteins, with the p17 protein encoded by the D117L gene serving as one of the major capsid proteins and playing a crucial role in the virus’s morphogenesis and immune evasion. Thus, monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting p17 is important for the research and detection of ASFV infection. Here, we produced two specific mAbs against p17, designated as 1G2 and 6G3, respectively, and both have been successfully used in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Western blotting, and immunofluorescence assay. Moreover, we found that both 1G2 and 6G3 mAbs recognize a novel epitope of 72–78 amino acids of p17 protein, highly conserved across all genotype I and II strains. Based on this epitope, an indirect ELISA has been established to effectively detect antibodies during ASFV infection, and it exhibits high consistency with commercial ASFV ELISA kits. In summary, the production of the specific p17 mAbs and the identification of the recognized epitope will significantly promote the serological diagnosis of ASFV.
Theoretical prerequisites for the formation of the definition of integrated reporting in the paradigm of sustainable development
Authors:   Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University, Moscow, Russia, Dzhikуa М. К.
Published: December 2024

The article summarizes the existing international system of professional
communities regulating corporate and integrated reporting standards, based on the
analysis of the evolution of corporate reporting development, six stages of its development
are identified, the main approaches of Russian and foreign authors to the definition
of «integrated reporting» are analyzed, and the author’s definition of the definition of
«integrated reporting» is proposed.
Formation of accounting (financial) statements in accordance with FASB 4/2023 «Accounting (financial) statements» in agricultural organizations
Authors:   Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University, Moscow, Russia, Dzhikiуa М. К. , Alborov R. A. ,   Udmurt State Agrarian University, Izhevsk, Russia, Kozmenkova S. V. ,   National Research Nizhny Novgorod State University named after N.I. Lobachevsky, Alborov G. R. ,   Udmurt State Agrarian University, Izhevsk, Russia
Published: December 2024

In the modern conditions of agricultural development, the issues of organizing
proper management of agricultural production based on accounting and reporting
information of agricultural economic entities are of great importance. In this regard, it
is necessary to generate accounting (financial) statements in agricultural organizations
that meet the requirements of reliability, completeness and objectivity of the reflected indicators.
Therefore, the article considers the issues of generating accounting (financial)
statements in accordance with the requirements of the new federal accounting standard
FSBU 4/2023 «Accounting (Financial) Statements». This article considers the indicators
disclosed in the balance sheet, the statement of financial performance, the statement
of changes in equity and the statement of cash flows. Recommendations are proposed
for making changes to the balance sheet by highlighting individual indicators provided
for in other federal and industry standards as independent items, as well as taking into
account the materiality and specific features of agricultural activities.
Development of discounted value in accounting
Authors:   Buryat State Agricultural Academy named after V.R. Filippov, Ulan-Ude, Russia, Gomboeva A. N.
Published: December 2024

The article analyzes the evolution of the concept of discounted value
in accounting, ranging from simple mathematical models to modern analytical
tools and a variety of approaches to the study of discounted value, emphasizing
the activity of the scientific community in this area and the importance of
introducing discounting methods in accounting. The relevance of this topic is
justified by the need to take into account the time value of money, which makes
it possible to effectively assess the current value of future cash flows. Discounted
value based on the principle of time value of money implies the use of
a discount rate that reflects market conditions and specific risks. FSBU5/2019,
FSBU6/2020, FSBU26/2020, which confirms the importance of this instrument
in accounting. The effective use of discounting requires consideration of multiple
factors such as inflation, risks and alternative investment opportunities,
making the valuation more complex and multifaceted. The correct application
of discounted value contributes to a more realistic view of assets and financial
liabilities, improving the accounting and management decision-making process.
Treatment patterns and burden of uncomplicated urinary tract infection in England
Authors: Wilcox Mark H , Heaton Dave , Mulgirigama Aruni , Joshi Ashish V , Chirikov Viktor , Gibbons Daniel C , Webb David , Marston Xiaocong L , Alexander Myriam NA , Mitrani-Gold Fanny S
Published: December 2024

Background

Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (uUTIs) are common bacterial infections.

Aim

Evaluate the burden of uUTI in England for 1) potential determinants of disease progression; 2) extent and impact of antimicrobial prescribing non-concordant with treatment guidelines; and 3) economic burden and costs.

Design & setting

Retrospective cohort study utilising patient data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) linked to English Hospital Episodes Statistics.

Method

Female patients aged≥12 years with a new uUTI between 2018–2019,≥14 months’ continuous CPRD enrolment (≥12 months baseline,≥2 months follow-up), and≥1 oral antibiotic prescription±5 days of uUTI diagnosis were included. Baseline characteristics were described in patients with/without disease progression (hospitalisation for acute pyelonephritis/bacteraemia/sepsis). Treatment non-concordance with current English guidelines was assessed. Burden (all-cause and UTI-related healthcare resource use [HCRU] and costs) was evaluated in a 1:1 age-/comorbidity-matched uUTI-free cohort.

Results

Of 120,519 patients, 207 (0.2%) had disease progression requiring hospitalisation (during index uUTI episode); determinants included older age, index home consultation, prior hospitalisation and medications prescribed for comorbid conditions in the prior 12 months (British National Formulary classes: cardiovascular, eye, other). Non-concordant treatment was observed in 43.5% of patients. All-cause HCRU burden and costs were significantly higher in patients with uUTI versus age-/comorbidity-matched controls (P<0.001) at 28 days (£160.06 versus £37.63) and in the 12-month follow-up (£1206.77 versus £460.97).

Conclusion

All-cause HCRU burden and costs were significantly higher in uUTI patients versus matched controls (P<0.001). Hospitalisation for acute pyelonephritis, bacteraemia, or sepsis following uUTI was uncommon.
Photovoice e a abordagem Eco-Bio-Social com estudantes: uma estratégia inovadora para controle e prevenção do Aedes aegypti
Authors: Barakat Roberta Duarte Maia , Macêdo Suyanne Freire de , Moreira Thereza Maria Magalhães , Cestari Virna Ribeiro Feitosa , Barbosa Filho Valter Cordeiro , Caprara Andrea
Published: December 2024

O Photovoice utiliza a fotografia como elemento de diálogo que transcende a compreensão de uma imagem. Este estudo consolida conhecimentos e ações inovadoras na mobilização de estudantes para controle e prevenção do vetor Aedes aegypti. O controle desse vetor é de interesse global, e a abordagem Eco-Bio-Social aponta estratégias sustentáveis e eficazes nesse sentido. Descrevemos a experiência de escolares e adolescentes com o Photovoice a partir de discussões sobre as fotografias produzidas. Os dados coletados foram analisados e processados pelo software IRaMuTeQ, e os resultados foram compilados e integrados por construção temática a partir das narrativas dos estudantes. Identificamos dois núcleos centrais nas narrativas: os mosquitos e a água. O Photovoice despertou nos participantes uma perspectiva crítica de gestão ambiental e revelou-se uma ferramenta adequada para impulsionar a proatividade e promover a responsabilidade social e comunitária, reunindo conhecimento científico e compromisso social.
Yaşlılarda Sarkopeninin Klinik Pratikte Tanı ve Değerlendirme Yöntemleri
Authors: Özbek İlhan Celil
Published: December 2024

Derginizin 30 Eylül 2024 tarihli 11. Cilt 3. sayısında, Sayın Arı ve ark. tarafından kaleme alınan "Yaşlılarda Sarkopeni ve Toplumsal Katılım" başlıklı derlemeyi büyük bir ilgiyle okudum. Kas iskelet sistemi ile ilgilenen hekimleri yakından ilgilendiren, tanısı ve tedavisi oldukça önemli olan bu konuya değerli katkıları için yazarlara teşekkür ederim. Yaşlılarda sarkopeni varlığının toplumsal katılım ve yaşam kalitesi üzerine etkilerini ele alan bu kapsamlı derlemeye, fiziyatrist bakış açısıyla katkı sunmak ve bilgilerimi paylaşmak istiyorum. Bu katkının, derlemenin klinik pratik açısından daha faydalı hale gelmesine yardımcı olacağına inanıyorum.
İleri yaştaki yetişkinlerde daha sık gözlenen sarkopeni, düşük kas kütlesi ve azalmış fiziksel performans ile karakterize olup, bireylerin günlük yaşam aktivitelerini yerine getirme yeteneklerini kısıtlayarak sosyal katılımlarını ciddi ölçüde azaltan bir durumdur. Bu noktada, klinik pratikte sarkopeninin erken ve doğru bir şekilde değerlendirilmesi için etkili yöntemlerin ve uygun kriterlerin uygulanması büyük önem taşımaktadır.
Description of a new species of Scythris Hübner, 1825 (Lepidoptera: Scythrididae) from central Spain
Authors: King Gareth Edward
Published: December 2024

Scythris salsolavermiculatus sp. nov. is described as new for science from material taken ex cocoon in its food-plant: Salsola vermiculata L. (Chenopodiaceae) in 2001, in the vicinity of Meco (prov. Madrid, 607 m a. s. l.). Its biology is documented, which includes
its host plant and its parasitoid, as well as the basic morphology related to its exuvium and cocoon. The male genitalia is very characteristic, with the uncus divided in two and unusually lengthened, while the gnathos is scleroticised and in the shape of a finch's head. The new taxon is included
in the cistorum species-group. Its wing morphology is also quite distinct in terms of the three other species included.
Desenvolvimento de uma tecnologia educacional sobre prevenção de acidentes domésticos na primeira infância
Authors: Pinheiro Paulo Wederson Alves , Fernandes Maria Jessica da Silva , Silva Natália de Sousa , Vitoriano Anna Beatriz Pinheiro , Sousa Caroline Ribeiro de , Lima Hilderlânia de Freitas , Lima Liene Ribeiro de , Oliveira Ana Clara Martins de
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: O presente estudo objetiva relatar o desenvolvimento de uma tecnologia educacional para prevenção de acidentes na primeira infância. Metodologia: Trata-se de um relato de experiência, sobre a construção de uma cartilha intitulada “Prevenção de acidentes domésticos”. A etapa de construção foi subdividida em três fases – construção do roteiro, teste de legibilidade de Flesh e design e ilustração. Resultados: Realizou-se, no total, três encontros entre os pesquisadores envolvidos no presente estudo. No primeiro encontro, foram pontuados os acidentes que integrariam a cartilha e foi construído o roteiro. No segundo encontro, realizou-se uma divisão entre os pesquisadores para a construção do texto relacionado aos acidentes. O terceiro encontro foi destinado à conversa com o designer, a fim de avaliar a primeira imagem e quais mudanças seriam necessárias. Conclusão: A cartilha é intitulada “Prevenção de acidentes domésticos” e contém 14 páginas, com 13 ilustrações e 8 acidentes (afogamento, quedas, queimadura, choque elétrico, intoxicação, engasgo, mordidas por animais peçonhentos e asfixia). A cartilha foi construída com base em estudos que comprovam a efetividade do seu uso na promoção da saúde, com uma interface convidativa ao leitor, imagens autoexplicativas e linguagem de fácil entendimento. Logo, mostra-se uma ótima opção para utilização por profissionais de saúde e/ou cuidadores.
المنهج المعماري: إطار لنظام المعلومات الوطني لدولة الكويت
Authors: القاهري حميد أحمد , عبدالهادي محمد دفتدار
Published: December 2024

يُعد تجميع التراث الثقافي الوطني للكويت والحفاظ عليه أحد الأهداف الرئيسية لنظام المعلومات الوطني لدولة الكويت، ويتطلب نظام معقد ومتشعب مثل هذا النظام إطار مهاري مثل إطار (Zachman, 1987,1997) الشائع الاستخدام في هيكلة نظم المعلومات المؤسسية. وتناقش هذه الورقة النظرة إلى المفاهيم المعمارية لنظام المعلومات الوطني لبيان تلك المفاهيم للمصححين والمنفذين ومشغلي ومستخدمي النظم.
تحليل لوجهة نظر مدراء البنوك التجارية في دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة حول تطبيق الاتفاقية العامة لتجارة الخدمات
Authors: التميمي حسين عبدالله حسن
Published: December 2024

في هذه الدراسة تمت محاولة التعرف على مدى الفائدة من تطبيق الاتفاقية العامة لتجارة الخدمات من وجهة نظر مدراء البنوك التجارية في دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة. وقد تم التركيز على محاولة الحصول على إجابة عن بعض التساؤلات المهمة مثل: هل هناك دعم للاتفاقية المذكورة من قبل هؤلاء المديرين؟ وهل هناك علاقة بين هذا الدعم وعوامل أخرى مثل مقدار المنافع التي يمكن تحقيقها، ومدى تأهل البنوك للتكيف لتطبيق الاتفاقية، وتوقيت عملية التطبيق؟ إضافة إلى ذلك تمت محاولة تعرف مدى الاختلاف بين المدراء في مجال دعمهم للاتفاقية وحسب حجم البنك وجنسية هؤلاء المدراء (مواطنين ووافدين)، ومدى انتشار هذه البنوك.
PENERAPAN AKUNTANSI LINGKUNGAN DALAM PENGELOLAAN LIMBAH: STUDI PADA PENCUCIAN MOBIL
Authors: Nida Fiya Umaini  , Sihabudin Sihabudin , Arimurti Trias
Published: December 2024

The car wash business is one of the types of businesses that generates waste that can pollute the environment and endanger the surrounding community. The research method used is descriptive research with a qualitative approach. Data collection was obtained using source triangulation and method triangulation through interviews and observations. The participants in this study are car wash businesses in Karawang Regency. Informants in this study consist of key informants, main informants, and supporting informants. Data analysis techniques used are data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results of this study indicate that car wash businesses in Karawang Regency do not yet know and understand environmental accounting, and have not implemented environmental costs in their financial reports. However, there are environmental costs incurred, one of which is the cost of internal environmental failures.