bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Modeling of digital spatial processing under conditions of troposphere propagation of centimeter radio waves for wireless telecommunication
Authors: Peshkov Ilia W. , Borisov Dmitry N. 
Published: February 2025

Objectives. A radio beam traveling through the layers of the atmosphere depends on the refractive index and its vertical variation. In this regard, attenuation may occur when radio rays propagate in a waveguide manner at low altitudes. A multipath fading effect may also occur when several rays reflected from different layers of the troposphere and having different spatial coordinates in elevation arrive at the receiver. The aim of the study is to simulate the operational algorithms of digital antenna arrays (DAA) in order to increase the range and reliability of radio communication using a tropospheric waveguide. The main advantage of the DAA consists in the high gain and controllability of the pattern shape. In order to evaluate algorithms for direction-of-arrival estimation with superresolution and beamforming, it is necessary to select an appropriate method for modeling beam propagation in the layers of the troposphere. It is proposed to use DAA to increase the range and reliability of radio communications using a tropospheric waveguide. The performance of algorithms for direction-of-arrival estimation and beamforming in the troposphere can be evaluated using ray tracing simulation.Methods. Parabolic equations are used to estimate the path losses of radio waves in the centimeter range. A ray tracing algorithm referring to a tropospheric waveguide is used to estimate the phases in the aperture of the receiving array. A spatial correlation matrix is reliably generated to form the basis for calculating coordinates using a superresolution multiple signal classification (MUSIC) method and the weighting factor vector (algorithm for maximizing the signal-to-noise + noise ratio).Results. Typical cases of a tropospheric waveguide based on a modified refractive index were considered. The bit error rate curves are obtained as a function of the geometry of the antenna arrays after the signal has passed through the tropospheric waveguide. Circular and spherical antenna arrays composed of directional antenna elements are considered.Conclusions. Numerical studies suggest that the range of communication links using digital antenna arrays increases in the centimeter band. The best geometry for this purpose is circular, since providing the lowest bit error rate for binary phase-shift keyed signals.
A smoothed particle hydrodynamics approach for numerical simulation of tube heat exchangers
Authors: Korenchenko Anna E. , Sukhov Anton V. 
Published: February 2025

Objectives. In the confined space of heat exchangers, heat transfer rate plays a key role. The cross-sectional shape of the tubes can affect the heat transfer characteristics. Although circular tubes are easier and less expensive to manufacture, heat transfer in heat exchangers with tubes of other cross-sections can take place at higher rates, thus providing economic advantages. This makes the mathematical modeling of hydrodynamics and heat exchange in a tube apparatus relevant and interesting both from the theoretical and applied point of view. The aim of this study is to determine the influence of the shape of the tube cross-section on the heat transfer intensity.Methods. Numerical investigations were carried out using smoothed particle hydrodynamics. The possibilities of the smoothed particle method for resolving industrial heat transfer problems were demonstrated.Results. Heat transfer intensity was analyzed for tubes of circular and rectangular cross-sections. In cases where the cross sections of tubes in the heat exchanger are elongated in a given direction, the influence of the tube position in relation to the oncoming flow was studied. This was performed either with the long side along the flow or across it. The influence of tube surface protrusions on heat exchange was investigated. The flow around tubes with different cross-sectional shapes was also analyzed. The features of the flow around the tubes were established, and the velocity and temperature fields in the heat exchanger volume were defined. The values of the dimensionless heat flux (Nusselt number) for each case were also found.Conclusions. The influence of finned tubes in the laminar flow regime of heated fluid through the bundle of heat transfer tubes is insignificant. The highest value of the heat flux was observed for tubes of rectangular cross section with the long side transverse to the flow, and the difference with the data obtained for standard round tubes was found to be more than 15%.
Probabilistic characteristics analysis of virus attack effect on digital substations
Authors: Leontyev Alexander S. , Zhmatov Dmitry V. 
Published: February 2025

Objectives. This study aims to create analytical methods for evaluating the probabilistic safety characteristics of information and software elements in digital substations in order to ensure security in different virus scenarios.Methods. The methods of reliability theory, random process theory, and recovery theory were used.Results. The derived integral ratios were further used to estimate the probability characteristics of information processing security when performing functional tasks in various scenarios of attacks on digital substations, as well as multiple technologies used for protection against such threats. Numerical studies of safe information processing probability of different intensities of attacks and times of their activation were conducted, in order to consider the frequency of diagnostics of the system by the service personnel and customer requirements for the safe operation of the system in a certain period. We performed calculations for various protection technologies against similar attacks on digital substations. A protection technology with system diagnostic deterministic frequency can support customer requirements in the event of accidental and relatively rare virus attacks. Security technologies consider different maintenance personnel operation modes to ensure customer fulfillment requirements for safe information processing probability and the case of deliberate attacks on digital substations in each period.Conclusions. The technologies considered herein for information protection from attacks on digital substations can provide the necessary level of information security system operation for all types of threats. These technologies can be applied when the system diagnostics frequency increases from twice an hour to at least once every 25 minutes. Our findings underline the importance of timely monitoring of ever-changing attack environments for digital substations.
Chiggers
Authors: Koehler P.G. 
Published: February 2025

This document provides an overview of chiggers, detailing their biology, life cycle, and the effects of their bites. Chiggers, or “red bugs,” are larvae of mites that cause intense itching and welts on human skin. They do not transmit diseases in Florida. The document explains their preferred habitats, methods for controlling infestations, and treatment options for bites, including the use of repellents and insecticides. Emphasis is placed on hygiene and protective measures to prevent chigger bites and manage affected areas. Publication date: May 1991.
Lesser Grain Borer, Rhyzopertha dominica (Coleoptera, Bostrichidae)
Authors: Koehler P.G. 
Published: February 2025

This document provides an overview of the lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica, a serious pest of stored grains and cereal products. It describes the beetle’s appearance, habits, and biology, including its ability to infest a wide range of products. The article emphasizes the importance of inspection and sanitation in preventing infestations and outlines control measures, including the use of pheromone traps, insect-proof containers, and various pesticides. It also highlights the need for fumigation in cases of large infestations and provides a table of available pesticides for effective management. Publication date: March 1994.
Citrus Snow Scale Unaspis citri (Comstock) (Insecta: Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Diaspididae)
Authors: Buckley Courtney R. , Hodges Amanda 
Published: February 2025

This document provides an overview of the citrus snow scale, Unaspis citri, an armored scale insect affecting citrus crops. It details the insect’s biology, life cycle, and distribution, highlighting its impact on citrus production in Florida. The document also discusses the economic significance of citrus snow scale infestations and outlines management strategies, including biological, cultural, and chemical controls. Emphasis is placed on the importance of monitoring and controlling this pest to prevent economic damage to citrus groves.
Educação empreendedora nos cursos profissionalizantes
Authors: Santos Whendel Whesley Segundo dos , Temóteo Tércia Leocádio , Araújo Gracyanne Freire de 
Published: February 2025

A educação profissionalizante tem demandado uma preocupação no sistema educacional brasileiro a fim atender diversos problemas que afetam a inserção dos indivíduos no mercado de trabalho, a exemplo do desemprego. Diversos cursos técnicos surgem para capacitar profissionais para empreenderem. Essa pesquisa tem como objetivo compreender como a educação empreendedora contribui para a formação profissional dos estudantes de cursos profissionalizantes em Administração da cidade de Aracaju, Sergipe. O presente estudo classifica-se em qualitativo e exploratório, utilizando-se de uma análise bibliográfica para seu desenvolvimento. Os resultados obtidos informam que a educação empreendedora nos cursos técnicos se apresenta como uma ferramenta de mudança, que fortalece a perfil empreendedor dos alunos e desenvolve habilidades como iniciativa, criatividade, planejamento e competitividade. A partir desses resultados podemos concluir que essa proposta de pesquisa é relevante no campo da educação profissional ao contribuir com elementos relacionados à intenção empreendedora dos estudantes, suprindo uma lacuna na literatura sobre o ensino de empreendedorismo em cursos técnicos e seus benefícios para o mercado de trabalho.
Targeting aldose reductase using natural African compounds as promising agents for managing diabetic complications
Authors: Gakpey Miriam E. L. , Aidoo Shadrack A. , Jumah Toheeb A. , Hanson George , Msipa Siyabonga , Mbaoji Florence N. , Bukola Omonijo , Tjale Palesa C. , Sangare Mamadou , Tebourbi Hedia , Awe Olaitan I. 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundDiabetes remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality due to various complications induced by hyperglycemia. Inhibiting Aldose Reductase (AR), an enzyme that converts glucose to sorbitol, has been studied to prevent long-term diabetic consequences. Unfortunately, drugs targeting AR have demonstrated toxicity, adverse reactions, and a lack of specificity. This study aims to explore African indigenous compounds with high specificity as potential AR inhibitors for pharmacological intervention.MethodologyA total of 7,344 compounds from the AfroDB, EANPDB, and NANPDB databases were obtained and pre-filtered using the Lipinski rule of five to generate a compound library for virtual screening against the Aldose Reductase. The top 20 compounds with the highest binding affinity were selected. Subsequently, in silico analyses such as protein-ligand interaction, physicochemical and pharmacokinetic profiling (ADMET), and molecular dynamics simulation coupled with binding free energy calculations were performed to identify lead compounds with high binding affinity and low toxicity.ResultsFive natural compounds, namely, (+)-pipoxide, Zinc000095485961, Naamidine A, (−)-pipoxide, and 1,6-di-o-p-hydroxybenzoyl-beta-d-glucopyranoside, were identified as potential inhibitors of aldose reductase. Molecular docking results showed that these compounds exhibited binding energies ranging from −12.3 to −10.7 kcal/mol, which were better than the standard inhibitors (zopolrestat, epalrestat, IDD594, tolrestat, and sorbinil) used in this study. The ADMET and protein-ligand interaction results revealed that these compounds interacted with key inhibiting residues through hydrogen and hydrophobic interactions and demonstrated favorable pharmacological and low toxicity profiles. Prediction of biological activity highlighted Zinc000095485961 and 1,6-di-o-p-hydroxybenzoyl-beta-d-glucopyranoside as having significant inhibitory activity against aldose reductase. Molecular dynamics simulations and MM-PBSA analysis confirmed that the compounds bound to AR exhibited high stability and less conformational change to the AR-inhibitor complex.ConclusionThis study highlighted the potential inhibitory activity of 5 compounds that belong to the African region: (+)-Pipoxide, Zinc000095485961, Naamidine A, (−)-Pipoxide, and 1,6-di-o-p-hydroxybenzoyl-beta-d-glucopyranoside. These molecules inhibiting the aldose reductase, the key enzyme of the polyol pathway, can be developed as therapeutic agents to manage diabetic complications. However, we recommend in vitro and in vivo studies to confirm our findings.
Correlation analysis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis with papillary thyroid carcinoma occurrence and its central lymph node metastasis: a single center experience
Authors: Sun Kang , Wang Xiaoming , Chen Dexuan , Ma Chaoqun 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study investigates the clinicopathological characteristics of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) with coexisting Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) and further explores the risk factors for central lymph node metastasis (CLNM) in PTC.MethodA retrospective analysis was conducted on 415 PTC patients who underwent surgical treatment for thyroid cancer at the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine from 2016 to 2022. Clinicopathological features were compared between PTC patients with and without HT. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyze the risk factors of CLNM.ResultThe PTC+HT group had a higher proportion of female patients (85.5%) than the PTC group (P&lt;0.05). Univariate analysis revealed no statistically significant difference between the two groups in eight aspects (all P&gt;0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that HT was positively associated with the total number of central lymph node (CLN) dissected, Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), Thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb), and Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), while identified as a protective factor against invasion with an odds ratio of 0.422 (95%CI 0.209-0.853, P=0.016). Through univariate and multivariate logistic regression, we proved that tumor position, Capsule + Extrathyroidal extension (ETE), multifocal tumors, and the total number of CLN dissected were independent risk factors for CLNM. Multiple linear regression analysis told us that invasion (β= 0.093, p=0.048) had a positively predictive impact on CLN positive rate.ConclusionFemale PTC patients are more prone to concurrent HT, which elevates the levels of TSH, TPOAb, and TgAb. HT not only promotes the longitudinal growth of nodules and PTC development, but also reduces the risk of invasion and CLNM. Therefore, we posit that the impact of HT on PTC patients is a “double-edged sword”. Isthmus, Capsule + ETE, multifocality, age &lt; 55 years old, and male are high-risk factors for CLNM in PTC, while HT is regarded as a protective factor. Capsule + ETE is the primary risk factor affecting the CLN positive rate.
HPK1 kinase inhibitor: a sufficient approach to target HPK1 to modulate T cell activation in cancer immunotherapy compared with degraders
Authors: Wang Qin , Zhu Xinyi , Li Jing , Xu Sanjia , Wang Ali , Zhang Xinwen , Wang Xingxing , Cai Xiaopeng , Xing Haimei , Liu Ye , Liu Xuesong , Wang Zhiwei , Wang Lai , Yuan Xi 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundHematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 (HPK1) is a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase kinase (MAP4K) family. It has been reported that HPK1 negatively regulates the activation of T cells. Several compounds have been developed and tested in clinical trials to target HPK1 for cancer immunotherapy. However, whether kinase inhibition is sufficient to eliminate the immunosuppressive function of HPK1, particularly in T cells, remains elusive.MethodsIn this study, genetic tools were used to edit the human T lymphocyte cell line Jurkat. The activation of HPK1-null cells, HPK1-wildtype cells and HPK1-kinase-inactive cells was compared through ectopic expression of HPK1 in HPK1 knockout cells or direct HPK1 mutation. Besides genetic validation, a series of compounds that selectively target HPK1 (with or without HPK1-degradation activity) were used to assess the potential scaffold function of HPK1 in regulation of human primary T cell activation and cytotoxic activity.Results and conclusionAugmented T-cell receptor (TCR)-induced activation in HPK1-knockout Jurkat cells was inhibited by complementation of wildtype, but not kinase-dead HPK1. HPK1 K46E-knockin and K46*-knockin Jurkat cells showed comparable levels of enhanced TCR-induced activation compared with control HPK1-wildtype Jurkat cells. Similarly, HPK1 kinase inhibitor (Compound 1) and cereblon-based (CRBN-based) HPK1 degrader (Compound 2) elicited similar degrees of maximum TCR-induced activation in primary human peripheral blood T cells. In summary, the results of this study suggested that HPK1 kinase inhibitor may be sufficient for HPK1 targeting in T cell mediated cancer immunotherapy.
Ddx21 mutant peptide is an effective neoantigen in prophylactic lung cancer vaccines and activates long-term anti-tumor immunity
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Xia Yimeng , Wang Zhihong , Sun Yaxing , Pu Dan , He Yijia , Liu Ruixian , Zhang Yanru , Liu Yan , Yu Junzhi , Ning Shiyang , Feng Baisui , Wang Yaohe , Wang Na 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionLung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, and its morbidity and mortality are increasing. Although low-dose CT lung cancer screening has been shown to reduce lung cancer mortality, its adoption rate is limited and the pace of its promotion is slow, highlighting the urgent need for more effective prevention measures. Prophylactic vaccines play a crucial role in cancer prevention. Our previous studies indicated that mice immunized with a prophylactic vaccine based on lung cancer cell lines KPL 160302S, derived from early-stage murine lung cancer tissues, exhibited a significantly extended survival period, with a strong anti-tumor immune response. While the vaccine based on KPL 160424S, derived from advanced-stage murine lung cancer tissues, failed to extend survival time and demonstrated limited capacity to stimulate anti-tumor immunity. MethodsTo investigate the fundamental reason for the difference between KPL 160302S and KPL 160424S vaccines, we employed bioinformatics methods and immune related experiments to explore the effects and mechanisms of the screened neoantigens. ResultsOur findings demonstrated that immunization with the Ddx21 mutant peptide (Ddx21MT), unique to KPL 160302S, could significantly increase the proportion of central memory T cells (TCM) in mice and activate anti-tumor immunity. DiscussionThese results suggest that the Ddx21MT is a highly effective neoantigen that can activate anti-tumor immunity, which can serve as an important component in developing a lung cancer vaccine and is expected to be used in combination with other immunotherapy approaches.
Pre-transplant T-cell clonal analysis identifies CD8+ donor reactive clones that contribute to kidney transplant rejection
Authors: Sanders Jes M. , Banbury Barbara L. , Schumacher Erika L. , He Jie , Sambandam Yuvaraj , Fields Paul A. , Gallon Lorenzo , Mathew James M. , Leventhal Joseph R. 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionResponses to allogeneic human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules limit the survival of transplanted organs. The changes in T-cell alloreactivity that contribute to this process, however, are not fully understood. We defined a set of donor reactive T-cell clones (DRTC) with the goal to elucidate signatures of kidney allograft rejection.MethodsDRTC were identified pretransplant using an anti-donor mixed lymphocyte reaction assay: CFSE-diluting CD4+ and CD8+ DRTC were flow-sorted, and the TCR sequences were identified using Adaptive Immunosequencing. DRTC were then tracked in post-transplant biopsies, blood, and urine samples in a cohort of kidney transplant recipients.ResultsIn patients with an abnormal biopsy, the majority of CD8+ DRTC found within the allograft were detected in the circulating pre-transplant repertoire. Circulating CD8+ DRTC were more abundant pre- and post-transplant in patients that received non-lymphodepletional induction and developed an abnormal biopsy when compared to stable patients. Additionally, DRTC were detected as early as two weeks post-transplant in the urine of some patients, with some of these clones subsequently identified in follow-up kidney biopsy samples.DiscussionThe findings of our study add to our understanding of T-cell alloreactivity following kidney transplantation and provide evidence for the role of pre-defined alloreactive T-cells in the development of allograft rejection.
Rheumatoid arthritis associated cytokines and therapeutics modulate immune checkpoint receptor expression on T cells
Authors: Emerson Dana , Merriman Eve , Yachi Pia P. 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionWe investigated the impact of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) associated cytokines and standard of care (SOC) RA therapeutics on immune checkpoint receptor (IR) expression on T cells to gain insights to disease pathology and therapeutic avenues.MethodsWe assessed IR expression by flow cytometry on T cell receptor activated T cells cultured in the presence of exogenously added single cytokines or RA patient synovial fluid. We also assessed RA synovial fluid stimulated samples in the presence of various single cytokine neutralizing antibodies or SOC therapeutics, including glucocorticoids, TNF, IL-6 receptor and JAK inhibitors. In addition to IR expression, we measured the impact on cytokine secretion profiles.ResultsRA-associated cytokines modulated IR expression, suggesting a role for these cytokines in regulation of disease pathology. By dissecting the influence of various inflammatory drivers within the RA inflammatory milieu, we discovered distinct regulation of IR expression by various cytokines including IL-10, IFNα/β, and TNF. Specifically, increased expression of TIM-3, PD-1, LAG-3 and CD28 in response to RA synovial fluid was driven by key cytokines including IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IFNs, and TNF. In addition, SOC RA therapeutics such as glucocorticoids and TNF inhibitors modulated IR and cytokine expression in the presence of RA synovial fluid.ConclusionsThis study points to an important and intricate relationship between cytokines and IRs in shaping immune responses in autoimmune pathology. The modulation of IR expression by RA-associated cytokines and SOC therapeutics provides new insights for the use of targeted treatments in managing RA pathology.