Abstract: Background: African swine fever (ASF) is a deadly, highly contagious disease with major global pig industry impacts, highlighting the urgent need for an effective vaccine. Methods: In this study, six antigenic proteins (K78R, A104R, E120R, E183L, D117L, and H171R) of ASFV were fused with the LPxTG surface anchoring polypeptide i.e., LP3065 of Lactobacillus plantarum WCFS1, resulting in the generation of the recombinant Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NC8 (rNC8) strains. The surface expression of ASFV antigenic proteins was confirmed by immunofluorescence and Western blotting assays. The peptides (DCpep) targeting dendritic cells (DCs) were also fused with LP3065 to bind to mouse DCs. The recombinant strains were administered via intragastric (I.G.), intranasal (I.N.), and intravenous (I.V.) routes in mice at 109 CFU/mouse. Results: In the I.V. immunized mice, the higher IgG titers were induced by rNC8-K78R and rNC8-A104R, while rNC8-E120R, rNC8-E183L, rNC8-D117L, rNC8-H171R induced low IgG titers, and rNC8-E120R remained insignificant. In the I.G. immunized mice, rNC8-E120R, rNC8-E183, rNC8-K78R, and rNC8-A104R induced higher sIgA levels, while rNC8-H171R and rNC8-D117L remained not significant in the feces. In the bronchioalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of the I.G. immunized mice, rNC8-D117L, rNC8-K78R, and rNC8-A104R induced higher levels of sIgA, while rNC8-E120R, rNC8-E183L, and rNC8-H171R were insignificant. In the feces of the I.N. immunized mice, rNC8-E120R, rNC8-K78R, and rNC8-A104R induced higher levels of sIgA, while rNC8-D117L remained insignificant. In the BALF of the I.N. immunized mice, rNC8-E120R, rNC8-K78R, and rNC8-A104R induced higher sIgA levels, while rNC8-H171R remained insignificant. Th1 (IFN-γ and IL-2) and Th2 (IL-4 and IL-10) responses were significant in the sera of the I.G. and I.N. immunized mice, whereas IL-10 levels remained insignificant in both groups. Flow cytometry showed a significant increase in CD3+CD4+ T cells in both the I.N. and I.G. groups, while CD3+CD8+ T cells were elevated only in the I.N. group compared with the control groups. Conclusion: This multiple antigen cocktail represents a probiotic-based ASF vaccine candidate that warrants further evaluation.

Abstract: Ground-based cloud detection remains challenging due to the cloud morphological complexity, inter-class visual ambiguity, and dynamic background interference. Although deep learning has enhanced detection precision, conventional random sampling training paradigms overlook the heterogeneous spectrum of cloud sample difficulty levels. This paper proposes CurriCloud, a dynamic curriculum learning framework that automatically adapts to cloud detection challenges through two key innovations: (1) a loss-adaptive difficulty measurement approach that evaluates sample complexity in real-time based on training performance, and (2) a phase-wise threshold scheduling mechanism that progressively adjusts sample selection to match the model’s capability. Extensive experiments on the ALPACLOUD benchmark demonstrate CurriCloud’s effectiveness across diverse architectures including YOLOv10s, SSD, and RT-DETR-R50, compared with random sampling training paradigms. Ablation studies demonstrate CurriCloud’s robustness to hyperparameter variations, while comparative analyses show superior precision-recall balance over static curriculum methods. The architecture-agnostic design enables seamless integration with CNNs and transformers, offering practical value for meteorological observation systems.

Abstract: As real-time embedded systems are becoming ubiquitous, thanks to their sheer inclusion in all kinds of low-cost consumer appliances and the emergence of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, the pressure to enhance firmware development effectiveness and reduce time to market is rising. At the same time, there is a drive towards higher-level programming paradigms, to improve software quality with respect to traditional techniques. This paper presents a framework that enables programmers to deploy typical embedded real-time firmware more conveniently than using plain C-language programming, by abstracting away from tedious, low-level details, such as I/O configuration and operations, as well as the ad-hoc management of multiple, diverse network technologies. Moreover, unlike other proposals, the framework is able to accommodate both time and event-driven applications. Experimental results presented in the paper corroborated the viability, convenience, and better expressiveness of the framework with respect to plain C. At the same time, due to its focus on compile-time versus runtime processing, the framework also exhibited a small execution time overhead and memory footprint, thus confirming its suitability even for microcontrollers with little processing power, like the ones typically found in inexpensive embedded and IoT systems.

Abstract: Three stations in the Asia-Pacific region are selected to form two time comparison links. By comparing the correction accuracy of the satellite orbits and clock deviations of the PPP-B2b messages broadcast by the two GEO satellites of BDS-3 C59 and C61, and taking the time comparison results obtained by the GBM post-ephemeris as a reference, the accuracy of the time comparison of the PPP-B2b messages broadcast by the two GEO satellites C59 and C61 was evaluated. The results show that the accuracy of time comparison between C59 and C61 is similar, but the stability and availability of C59 are better than those of C61. In addition, five IGS/IGMAS stations were selected to evaluate the accuracy of the PPP-B2b message transmitted by the C59 and C61 GEO satellites for BDS-3 positioning, using the IGS/IGMAS weekly solution positioning results as a reference. The results show that the static positioning of PPP-B2b broadcasted by C59 and C61 can reach centimeter level, and the simulated kinematic positioning can reach decimeter level. The positioning accuracy of C59 is higher than that of C61.

Abstract: The architectural design of hospital environments has a quantifiable impact on neonatal health, merging scientific evidence with spatial innovation. Recent studies reveal that single room (SFR) Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) reduce nosocomial infections by 50% compared to open plan designs, thus optimizing the safety of premature newborns, who represent 10% of global births. This configuration, supported by evidence based design (EBD) principles, also increases breastfeeding rates by 25% and decreases hospital stays by 15%, according to systematic reviews. Strategically integrated exposure to natural light regulates circadian rhythms in 80% of premature neonates, improving their neurological development, while noise levels below 45 dB, achieved through acoustic ceilings reduce parental stress by 30%. Historically, the transition from centralized nurseries to family friendly spaces reflects a paradigm focused on psych emotional wellbeing. However, challenges persist: 60% of hospitals in low and middle income countries face budget constraints to implement SFR, despite its long term cost effectiveness. Future trends emphasize "healing architecture," incorporating antimicrobial biomaterials and intelligent systems that monitor environmental variables in real time, projecting a 20% reduction in costs associated with neonatal complications. By integrating nature, technology, and family involvement, hospital design emerges not only as a physical framework but as a catalyst for holistic health, redefining the future of neonatal care.

Abstract: The article addresses the problem of simultaneous estimation of states and parameters for a class of systems described by nonlinear ordinary differential equations, which model the operation of a counterflow heat exchanger. The augmented vector, which includes both states and parameters, is partially unobservable, and as shown by the analysis of global and local identifiability based on available experimental data, the estimation problem is ill-conditioned and requires regularization. For this purpose, a subset of estimable parameters was selected using an orthogonal method and a D-criterion optimization algorithm. Based on the experimental data, simultaneous estimation of states and parameters was performed using the UKF, with the set of estimated parameters including both the selected subset and competing parameter sets. Experimental-statistical modeling demonstrated that regularizing the estimation problem led to better results compared to non-optimal ones, and residual correlation analysis supports the conclusion of their reliability.

Abstract: The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across Asia presents a transformative opportunity for sustainable transportation, but faces significant challenges in charging infrastructure deployment. This study examines the multifaceted barriers to EV charging station development in diverse Asian markets, including high capital costs, grid limitations, urban space constraints, standardization issues, and regulatory fragmentation. Through comparative analysis of China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asian nations, the paper identifies key patterns in infrastructure gaps and successful mitigation strategies. China's state-led approach demonstrates scalability but reveals utilization imbalances, while Japan's early standardization creates path dependencies requiring careful transition. Emerging markets like India and Indonesia face compounded challenges of grid reliability and rural accessibility. The study proposes a comprehensive policy framework addressing financial mechanisms, smart grid integration, urban planning solutions, and regional standardization. Key recommendations include tiered investment models, renewable-powered charging hubs, modular grid upgrades, and adaptive regulatory sandboxes. Findings suggest that Asia's charging infrastructure development requires context-specific solutions balancing immediate needs with long-term sustainability goals. Successful implementation demands unprecedented collaboration between governments, utilities, and private sector stakeholders to overcome current bottlenecks and accelerate the region's transition to electric mobility.

Abstract: This paper presents a Unified Field Theory based on the principle that all physical matter arisesfrom the curvature of standing waves in time and space. Beginning with the photon as a purewave of frequency without mass, we show how mass emerges when these waves resonate andlock into closed geometric structures. The electron is described as a stable time-loop formed bytwo interacting photons. The proton, in contrast, requires a full three-dimensional resonance —completing four spiral turns in space-time — to achieve closure.At the heart of this model is a resonance amplification constant derived from finite spiral growth.Using a physical version of the golden ratio, which naturally emerges from Fibonacci recursion,we demonstrate that mass is not an intrinsic quantity but the result of finite curvature locking.Nature does not follow infinite mathematical ideals; it completes closure in finite steps, producingstable matter through geometric necessity.This theory connects particles, atomic structure, and cosmological patterns through one principle:curved standing waves in time-space. From photons to electrons, from spiral galaxies to protons,all form through the same resonance logic. No external fields or arbitrary constants are required— mass, energy, and form are unified by a single geometric wave. This theory suggests that theuniverse is not made of particles in motion, but of resonant waves in curved time, organisedthrough harmonic geometry. God does not play dice — the universe resonates.

Abstract: BNNTs are the promising materials for advanced storage applications because of their excellent mechanical properties, such as high strength and thermal stability. Highly advanced computational techniques were adopted in this work to simulate BNNT-based storage tanks against all environmental factors and other forms of external loads for one year. The present study focuses on mechanical performance and stability of BNNTs-based storage tanks through Finite Element Analysis (FEA) over one-year period, considering the evaluation of total deformation, strain energy, equivalent stress, and equivalent elastic strain. By such analysis concerning the deformation patterns, a detailed insight along with material performance about its deformation under long-period working conditions is obtained. A slight structural compromise throughout the deformation profile verifies BNNT's durability over quite extensive time spans. The strain energy calculations suggest that optimization of storage tanks' energy absorbing capabilities takes place with no strong indicators of fatigue or deterioration in materials. Equivalent stress and elastic strain values are systematically analysed, showing that BNNTs have the stable mechanical behaviour with values remaining within the acceptable limits even after one year of operational stress. This study validates not only the potential of BNNTs for their long-term applications in high-performance storage systems, but also offers an important understanding of the mechanical behaviour under realistic operational conditions that could set the way for future usage in advanced engineering applications.

Abstract: Imagine a puzzle, not of jigsaw pieces, but of abstract visual patterns. You see a few examples of how a grid of colored squares changes – perhaps shapes move, colors shift, or objects duplicate. Your task, after seeing just a handful of these "before and after" snapshots, is to figure out the underlying rule and apply it to a new, unseen grid. This is the essence of the Abstraction and Reasoning Corpus (ARC), a set of challenges designed to push artificial intelligence beyond mere pattern matching into the realm of genuine, human-like understanding. Solving ARC isn't just about smarter algorithms; it's about teaching computers to think in a way that mirrors our own remarkable ability to learn, adapt, and see the hidden logic in the world around us.

Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between serum estrogen levels during different phases of the menstrual cycle and the surgical outcomes of endoscope-assisted tympanoplasty in women with minor central perforations of the pars tensa of the tympanic membrane. Patients and Methods: Eighty female patients with central, small-sized tympanic membrane perforations were enrolled in this randomized clinical trial. Otoscopic examination confirmed the presence of central perforations, and baseline audiometry was conducted before surgery. Serum estrogen levels were measured on the day of tympanoplasty. To assess the impact of hormonal fluctuations, surgeries were scheduled during both the follicular (low estrogen) and luteal (high estrogen) phases of the menstrual cycle. Tympanoplasty was performed under endoscopic guidance, and surgical success was evaluated 3 months postoperatively. Success was defined as complete closure of the perforation with improved hearing thresholds. Results: Patients who underwent tympanoplasty during the luteal phase demonstrated significantly higher graft success rates compared with those operated on during the follicular phase (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Elevated estrogen levels during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle may positively influence tympanoplasty outcomes, possibly by enhancing wound healing or tissue regeneration. Hormonal status should be considered when planning tympanoplasty in premenopausal women.

Abstract: This article details the development and evaluation of an Electrochemistry Assistant, a question-answering system engineered to furnish precise and comprehensive responses to inquiries about electrochemistry. The system implements a Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) methodology, capitalizing on the capabilities of Google's Gemini model and the ChromaDB vector database. It extracts pertinent information from a curated corpus of PDF documents, generates embedding vectors for both the documents and user queries, and retrieves relevant documents based on semantic similarity. Subsequently, the Gemini model utilizes the retrieved documents as contextual information to generate informative and user-centric answers. The performance of the system was evaluated using a dual approach: employing accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score metrics on a defined set of test questions, and through a manual review by domain experts to assess the accuracy and relevance of the generated responses. The findings highlight the potential of RAG in constructing specialized question-answering systems for scientific domains such as electrochemistry, particularly in the retrieval and synthesis of information from technical documentation. The complete source code is freely available and accessible via the following repository: https://github.com/anatarajank/Electrochemistry-Assistant

Abstract: Background: Remote interprofessional education (IPE) often fails to reflect cognitive differences across disciplines, limiting students’ ability to form collaborative identities and clarify professional roles. Prior research has focused on attitudinal change, with less attention to reflective and epistemological learning. Objective: This study aimed to examine how a brief, structured remote IPE intervention could foster understanding of disciplinary perspectives and enhance interprofessional competence among occupational therapy (OT) and mental health social work (MHSW) students. Methods: Final-year Japanese university students in OT and MHSW participated in a two-session remote IPE intervention. In the first session, students independently assessed a video case using ICF core sets. In the second, profession-specific results were aggregated, visualized, and shared as feedback to prompt guided reflection. A convergent mixed-methods design was used, combining pre/post surveys (RIPLS, IEPS) with qualitative analysis of written reflections. Results: Significant improvement was observed in the IEPS Competence and Autonomy subscale among MHSW students with low baseline scores. No significant changes were found in RIPLS scores. Thematic analysis indicated increased awareness of disciplinary perspectives and recognition of complementary roles. Conclusions: A structured comparison approach can promote role clarity, reflective learning, and interprofessional identity in brief, remote IPE.

Abstract: A chronic positive energy balance, as observed in obesity, leads to an increase in circulating free fatty acids (FFAs), which can activate inflammatory signaling in M1 macrophages. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that controls the expression of several genes involved in the cellular response to redox changes, xenobiotic detoxification, and adipogenesis. The signaling pathway that leads to the migration of Nrf2 to the cell nucleus is well known, but its role in regulating the adipogenesis process remains controversial. Activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway leads to increased expression of critical enzymes involved in FFA esterification, such as triglycerides, the safest way to store FFAs. This paper reviews recent information on the role of Nrf2 in the differentiation of preadipocytes into adipocytes, which helps explain controversial information. Adipocytes specialize in storing FFAs as triglycerides and act as endocrine cells. However, in obesity, its functions are dysregulated along with the macrophage-induced inflammation of adipose tissue. Adipose tissue inflammation is the main cause of low-grade systemic inflammation observed in obese patients and the main link between adipose tissue inflammation and obesity-associated insulin resistance. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the role of Nrf2 in the process of adipogenesis is essential for the development of new agonists to prevent metabolic abnormalities associated with obesity.

Abstract: We recently classified baryonic matter in the ground and first excited states thanks to the discrete group of braids inherent to $SU(2)_2$ Ising anyons. Remarkably, the braids of $SU(2)_4$ anyons allow to generate the neutrino mixing matrix with an accuracy close to measurements. This is an improvement over the model based on tribimaximal neutrino mixing which predicts a vanishing solar neutrino angle $\theta_{13}$ which is now ruled out. The discrete group of braids for $SU(2)_4$ anyons is isomorphic to the small group $(162,14)$ generated by a diagonal matrix $\sigma_1=R$ and a symmetric complex matrix $\sigma_2=FRF^{-1}$, where the $(3 \times 3)$ matrices $F$ and $R$ correspond to the fusion and exchange of anyons, respectively. We make use of the Takagi decomposition $\sigma_2=U^T D U$ of $\sigma_2$, where $U$ is the expected PMNS unitary matrix and $D$ is real and diagonal. We get agreement with the experimental results in about the $3\sigma$ range for the complex entries of the PMNS matrix with the angles $\theta_{13}\sim 10^o$, $\theta_{12}\sim30^o$, $\theta_{23}\sim 38^o$ and $\delta_{CP}\sim260^o$. Potential physical consequences of our model are discussed.

Abstract: Background: Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP) is a type-2 inflammatory upper respiratory disease that has a significant impact on the patient's quality of life. The recommended appropriate medical therapy is effective in controlling CRSwNP symptoms, but some patients are unable to control inflammation. Monoclonal antibodies have recently become a novel and personalized treatment that can help refractory patients restore disease control. Objective: The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of mepolizumab in real life settings in a diverse patient population, focusing on assessing the impact of this therapy on patient reported outcomes after six months of treatment. Methods: This is a multicenter, observational study of CRSwNP patients treated with mepolizumab carried out in five hospitals located in Spain. Adult patients with a diagnosis of uncontrolled CRSwNP were included in the study. The change in nasal polyp score (NPS) was the main clinical endpoint. Changes in Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22), nasal congestion and smell impairment visual analogical scales and blood and nasal polyp tissue eosinophil counts were among other endpoints included. Results: 47 patients were included. 91% were asthmatic. The nasal polyp score (0-8) was reduced significantly in the cohort (mean change: -2.56, p 0.0001). Mean SNOT-22 score improved 25.29 points. Nasal congestion (-3.57, p&lt;0.0001) and smell impairment (-4.0, p&lt;0.0001) visual analogical scales (0 -10) showed a significant improvement. Blood and tissue eosinophil median counts showed a significant reduction versus baseline of 86% and 26% respectively. Among those patients with asthma, the asthma control test score achieved a median value of 24 points. Conclusion: This study provides compelling evidence for the effectiveness of mepolizumab in managing recalcitrant CRSwNP in a real-world setting.

Abstract: Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2D patients) have a 74% increased risk of heart failure (HF) but traditional HF biomarkers lack sensitivity in early disease detection. Increased epicardial adipose tissue volume (EATv) is associated with cardiovascular risk in T2D, and novel biomarkers such as, Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), Galectin-3, and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2) are inflammatory bi-omarkers linked to HF. Methods: we investigated associations between EATv, and inflammation biomarkers, and the effect of metabolic control in 14 healthy controls (HC) and 36 newly diagnosed T2D patients before (PGC) and after 12-months of metabolic optimization (GGC). EATv indexed to body surface area (iEATv) was quantified by multidetector computed tomography, and biomarker levels measured by immuno-assays. Results: PGC patients had higher iEATv (59.53±21.67 vs. 36.84±16.57 cm³/m², p=0.0017) and elevated GDF15, Galectin-3, and sST2 (all p< 0.05) than HC. The met-abolic optimization reduced iEATv (p=0.0232) and sST2 (p=0.048), while GDF15 and Galectin-3 remained unchanged. Multivariable analysis confirmed independent as-sociations between iEATv, GDF15 (β = 0.27, p = 0.027) and sST2 (β = 0.29, p = 0.02). Conclusions: these results support the link between systemic inflammation, EAT ex-pansion, and cardiac dysfunction, and the role of adiposity in the early HF risk of T2D patients.

Abstract: Brain metastases are a common and deadly complication of many primary tumors. The progression of these tumors is poorly understood, and treatment options are limited. Two important components of tumor growth are hypoxia and angiogenesis. We conducted a review to look at the possibility of a symbiotic relationship between two transcription factors, Hypoxia Inducible Factor 1α and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, and the role they play in metastasis to the brain. We delve further into this possible relationship by examining commonly used chemotherapeutic agents and their targets. Through extensive literature review, we identified articles that provided evidence of a strong connection between these transcription factors and the growth of brain metastases, many highlighting a symbiotic relationship. Further supporting this, combinations of chemotherapeutic drugs with varying targets have increased the efficacy of treatment. Angiogenesis and hypoxia have long been known to play a large role in the invasion, growth, and poor outcomes of tumors. However, it is not fully understood how these factors influence one another during metastases. While prior studies have investigated the effects separately, we specifically delve into the synergistic and compounding effects that may exist between them. Our findings underscore the need for greater research allocation to investigate the possible symbiotic relationship between angiogenesis and hypoxia in brain metastasis.

Abstract: Background: Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS)—including muscular strength, endurance, and mobility—are linked to better health-related quality of life and higher physical activity in children. Rural children often score lower on FMS tests than urban peers due to resource limitations rather than ability. Thus, increasing access to FMS activities in rural areas is essential. Methods: This study used a Hybrid Type 3 design to evaluate feasibility and FMS outcomes, integrating qualitative and quantitative data. The four-week intervention included a test group (n = 24; 14 females, 10 males; mean age: females 12.4 ± 0.5 years, males 12.7 ± 0.4 years) and a control group (n = 11; 5 females, 6 males; mean age: females 12.9 ± 0.3 years, males 12.7 ± 0.3 years). Data analysis included descriptive statistics for feasibility indicators (Acceptability of Intervention Measures [AIM], Appropriateness Measure [IAM], and Feasibility of Intervention Measure [FIM]), linear regression for mobility and muscular endurance changes, t-tests for psychological need satisfaction and frustration, and regression analysis for squat knowledge and post-intervention confidence. Results: There was (1) high feasibility across the 4-week Hoosier Strength intervention and follow-up; (2) no significant changes in squat performance; (3) participants’ confidence in their ability to squat at the end of the intervention was significantly predicted by their squat knowledge at baseline; and (4) participants prioritized leadership and team management over tactical analysis, highlighting a preference for coaches who foster teamwork. Conclusion: The findings offer a transparent approach for evaluating the feasibility and preliminary outcomes of the Hoosier Strength intervention in a rural middle school, thereby encouraging further investigation into strength training interventions in rural schools.

Abstract: Background: Cirrhosis represents an advanced stage of hepatic fibrosis, and the metabolic changes resulting from liver dysfunction can cause impairment in physical capacity and quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of 12 weeks of resistance exercise on inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, physical conditioning, and quality of life in patients with liver cirrhosis. Methods: 38 patients paired in the exercise (EG) and control (CG) groups participated in the study. The EG submitted to 2 weekly sessions of a program composed of resistance exercises. We evaluated the inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α), oxidative stress (carbonylated protein, total thiols, enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase activity), body composition, handgrip strength (HGS), and total volume of training, cardiorespiratory capacity (VO2, VCO2 and VEpeak), exercise capacity and quality of life. Results: Regarding the EG, when comparing the follow-up moment to the baseline, significant differences (p&lt;0.05) were found in BMI, HGS, total training volume, cardiorespiratory capacity variables, 6-min walk test, and quality of life. Improvements were observed, without significant differences, in the inflammatory profile, oxidative stress, and in one of the markers of liver function. The CG showed a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05) in HGS and cardiorespiratory capacity after the intervention. Conclusions: In patients with liver cirrhosis, a resistance exercise program improved physical fitness and quality of life, without adverse events. Besides, it seems that this type of training can bring some benefit to the inflammatory profile and oxidative stress of this population.