bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of PLA-Based Nanoneedle Patches Loaded with Transcutol-Modified Chitosan Nanoparticles for the Transdermal Delivery of Levofloxacin
Authors: Samiotaki Christina , Koumentakou Ioanna , Christodoulou Evi , Bikiaris Nikolaos D. , Vlachou Marilena , Karavas Evangelos , Tourlouki Konstantina , Kehagias Nikolaos , Barmpalexis Panagiotis
Published: September 2024

Current transdermal drug delivery technologies, like patches and ointments, effectively deliver low molecular weight drugs through the skin. However, delivering larger, hydrophilic drugs and macromolecules remains a challenge. In the present study, we developed novel transdermal nanoneedle patches containing levofloxacin-loaded modified chitosan nanoparticles. Chitosan was chemically modified with transcutol in three ratios (1/1, 1/2, 1/3, w/w), and the optimum ratio was used for nanoparticle fabrication via the ionic gelation method. The successful modification was confirmed using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, while DLS results revealed that only the 1/3 ratio afforded suitably sized particles of 220 nm. After drug encapsulation, the particle size increased to 435 nm, and the final formulations were examined via XRD and an in vitro dissolution test, which suggested that the nanoparticles reach 60% release in a monophasic pattern at 380 h. We then prepared transdermal patches with pyramidal geometry nanoneedles using different poly(lactic acid)/poly(ethylene adipate) (PLA/PEAd) polymer blends of varying ratios, which were characterized in terms of morphology and mechanical compressive strength. The 90/10 blend exhibited the best mechanical properties and was selected for further testing. Ex vivo permeation studies proved that the nanoneedle patches containing drug-loaded nanoparticles achieved the highest levofloxacin permeation (88.1%).
A Novel High Performance Liquid Chromatography Method for Camphor Determination and Application in Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals: Development and Validation
Authors: Lalić Martin , Soldić Ana , Lalić Zdenka , Sertić Miranda
Published: September 2024

A novel high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with 4-N,N-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde as an internal standard was developed for the determination of Camphor with the main goal of facilitating the analysis of different cosmetic and pharmaceutical products that contain Camphor in analytical laboratories. The method can be applied to cosmetic and pharmaceutical samples such as gels, ointments, and creams containing Camphor. Chromatographic separation was carried out on the Symmetry® C18, 5 μm column (Waters), 250 × 4.6 equipped with guard column E, InertSustain C18, 5 µm, while using the flow of 1.4 mL/min, with a column temperature of 25 °C. The mobile phase consisted of 600 mL of acetonitrile, 400 mL of purified water, and 6 mL of glacial acetic acid. The method was evaluated in accordance with ICH Q2 (R2) guidelines for validation parameters: selectivity, linearity (range 0.10–3.00 mg/mL), the limit of detection (LOD = 0.028 mg/mL), the limit of quantification (LOQ = 0.085 mg/mL), accuracy (confidence intervals < 0.05%), repeatability (peak area ratio = 0.39–1.97), and intermediate precision (peak area ratio = 0.40–1.98). The method is applicable for detecting and quantifying Camphor in a variety of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products from different parts of the world, thus covering the concentrations required by different law legislations.
Secobutanolides Isolated from Lindera obtusiloba Stem and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Yang Hye Jin , Koh Young-Sang , Na MinKyun , Li Wei
Published: September 2024

In this study, a new secobutanolide, named secosubamolide B (3), along with three previously known secobutanolides (1, 2, and 4), were successfully isolated from a methanol extract of the stem of Lindera obtusiloba. The chemical structures of these compounds were elucidated through the analysis of spectroscopic data, and then compared with the existing literature to confirm their identities. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory effect of these isolated compounds on bone marrow-derived dendritic cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was evaluated. Compounds 1–3 showed the significant suppression of LPS-triggered IL-6 and IL-12 p40 production, with IC50 values between 1.8 and 24.1 µM. These findings may provide a scientific foundation for developing anti-inflammatory agents from L. obtusiloba.
Myrtus communis L. Essential Oil Exhibits Antiviral Activity against Coronaviruses
Authors: Li Dar-Yin , Donadu Matthew G. , Shue Taylor , Dangas Georgios , Athanasiadis Antonis , Lan Shuiyun , Wen Xin , Battah Basem , Zanetti Stefania , Mazzarello Vittorio , Sarafianos Stefan G. , Ferrari Marco , Michailidis Eleftherios
Published: September 2024

Human coronaviruses are a continuous threat to the human population and have limited antiviral treatments, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic sparked interest in finding new antiviral strategies, such as natural products, to combat emerging coronaviruses. Rapid efforts in the scientific community to identify effective antiviral agents for coronaviruses remain a focus to minimize mortalities and global setbacks. In this study, an essential oil derived from Myrtus communis L. (MEO) is effective against HCoV-229E and HCoV-OC43 virus infections in comparison to two FDA-approved drugs, Remdesivir and Nirmatrelvir. Gas-chromatography and mass spectrometry were used to identify the chemical composition of MEO. Slight antioxidant activity was observed in MEO, indicating a role in oxidative stress. A dose–response curve measuring the EC50 indicates a high potency against HCoV-229E and HCoV-OC43 virus infections on Huh7.5 cells with low cytotoxicity using a PrestoBlue cell viability assay. Our findings demonstrate that MEO exhibits potent antiviral activity against HCoV-229E and HCoV-OC43 on Huh7.5 cells within a low-cytotoxicity range, but not on SARS-CoV-2. Artificial bacterial chromosome plasmids that expressed SARS-CoV-2 used for replicon—to determine viral replication and viral assembly/egress on HEK293T/17 cells—and virus-like particles on Huh7.5-AT cells—to determine viral entry and assembly/egress—showed no antiviral activity with MEO in comparison to Remdesivir. This study reveals the potential effectiveness of MEO as an alternative natural remedy to treat human coronaviruses and a potential antiviral agent for future coronavirus infections.
In Vitro Interaction of Binuclear Copper Complexes with Liver Drug-Metabolizing Cytochromes P450
Authors: Špičáková Alena , Horáčková Zuzana , Kopel Pavel , Anzenbacher Pavel
Published: September 2024

Two copper(II) mixed ligand complexes with dicarboxylate bridges were prepared and studied, namely [Cu2(μ-fu)(pmdien)2(H2O)2](ClO4)2 (complex No. 5) and [Cu2(μ-dtdp)(pmdien)2(H2O)2](ClO4)2 (complex No. 6), where H2fu = fumaric acid, pmdien = N,N,N′,N″,N″ pentamethyldiethylenetriamine, and H2dtdp = 3,3′-dithiodipropionic acid. The copper atoms are coordinated in the same mode by the tridentate pmdien ligand and oxygen of water molecules, and they only differ in the dicarboxylate bridge. This work is focused on the study of the inhibitory effect of these potential antimicrobial drugs on the activity of the most important human liver drug-metabolizing enzymes, cytochromes P450 (CYP), especially their forms CYP2C8, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4. The obtained results allow us to estimate the probability of potential drug interactions with simultaneously administrated drugs that are metabolized by these CYP enzymes. In conclusion, the presence of adverse effects due to drug–drug interactions with concomitantly used drugs cannot be excluded, and hence, topical application may be recommended as a relatively safe approach.
Pomegranate–Quinoa-Based Agroforestry System: An Innovative Strategy to Alleviate Salinity Effects and Enhance Land Use Efficiency in Salt-Affected Semiarid Regions
Authors: Abidi Ilham , Daoui Khalid , Abouabdillah Aziz , Bazile Didier , Hassane Sidikou Abdel Aziz , Belqadi Loubna , Mahyou Hamid , Alaoui Si Bennasseur
Published: September 2024

Salinity is a major problem, impeding soil productivity, agricultural sustainability, and food security, particularly in dry regions. This study integrates quinoa, a facultative halophyte, into a pomegranate-based agroforestry with saline irrigation in northeast Morocco. We aim to explore this agroforestry model’s potential in mitigating salinity’s effects on quinoa’s agronomic and biochemical traits and evaluate the land equivalent ratio (LER). Field experiments in 2020 and 2021 used a randomized block design with three replicates, including monocropping and agroforestry systems, two salinity levels (1.12 and 10.5 dS m−1), four quinoa genotypes (Titicaca, Puno, ICBA-Q4, ICBA-Q5), and a pomegranate control. Salinity significantly decreased total dry matter (40.5%), root dry matter (50.7%), leaf dry matter (39.2%), and root-to-shoot ratio (7.7%). The impact was more severe in monoculture than in agroforestry, reducing dry matter (47.6% vs. 30.7%), grain yield (46.3% vs. 26.1%), water productivity (47.5% vs. 23.9%), and total sugar (19.2% vs. 5.6%). LER averaged 1.86 to 2.21, indicating 86–121% higher productivity in agroforestry. LER averaged 1.85 at 1.12 dS m−1 and 2.18 at 10.5 dS m−1, reaching 2.21 with pomegranate-ICBA-Q5 combination. Quinoa–pomegranate agroforestry emerges as an innovative strategy, leveraging quinoa’s salt resistance and agroforestry’s potential to mitigate salinity impacts while enhancing land use efficiency.
Importance of Media Composition and Explant Type in Cannabis sativa Tissue Culture
Authors: Das Rekhamani , Kretzschmar Tobias , Mieog Jos C.
Published: September 2024

Producing uniform Cannabis sativa (Cannabis) for medicinal/recreational flower production through sexual propagation has been problematic, leading to dominance of clonal propagation from “mother plants” in the cannabinoid industry, which also faces significant limitations. Cannabis tissue culture (TC) methods have been developed to overcome these challenges, but the long-term health and maintenance of Cannabis explants in TC have been largely overlooked in previous studies. The current study focused on the development of an efficient and optimized micropropagation protocol covering the entire process, with a specific focus on the health and performance in the multiplication stage. Multiplication media were formulated hormone-free to avoid longer-term vitrification issues, resulting in single-main-shoot cultures rather than multiple-shoot cultures. This instigated the use of stage II explant types different from the standard shoot tips previously used for multiple shoot cultures. Multiplication media were further improved from the basal salt composition via nitrogen and calcium additives. The optimized protocol was used on eight diverse Cannabis cultivars to test its applicability across various genetic backgrounds. Results indicated that the protocol was effective for conservation purposes across all cultivars and achieved good long-term multiplication rates for some but not all. The outcomes of this study mark a significant stride towards an efficient Cannabis TC methodology ready for more comprehensive industrial applications.
Study on Thermal Oxygen Aging Characteristics and Degradation Kinetics of PMR350 Resin
Authors: Wu Yadan , Zhao Wenchen , Liu Yang , Liu Haitao , Yang Minglong , Sun Xun
Published: September 2024

The thermal stability and aging kinetics of polyimides have garnered significant research attention. As a newly developed class of high thermal stability polyimide, the thermal aging characteristics and degradation kinetics of phenylene-capped polyimide prepolymer (PMR350) have not yet been reported. In this article, the thermo-oxidative stability of PMR350 was investigated systematically. The thermal degradation kinetics of PMR350 resin under different atmospheres were also analyzed using the Flynn–Wall–Ozawa method, the Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose method, and the Friedman method. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results revealed that the 5% thermal decomposition temperature (Td5%) of PMR350 in a nitrogen atmosphere was 29 °C higher than that in air, and the maximum thermal degradation rate was 0.0025%/°C, which is only one-seventh of that observed in air. Isothermal oxidative aging results indicated that the weight loss rate of PMR350 and the time-dependence relationship follow a first-order exponential growth function. PMR350 resin thermal decomposition reaction under air atmosphere includes one stage, with a degradation activation energy of approximately 57 kJ/mol. The reaction model g(α) fits the F2 model, and the integral form is given by g(α) = 1/(1 − α). In contrast, the thermal decomposition reaction under a nitrogen atmosphere consists of two stages, with degradation activation energies of 240 kJ/mol and 200 kJ/mol, respectively. The reaction models g(α) correspond to the A2 and D3 models, with the integral forms represented as g(α) = [−ln(1 − α)]2 and g(α) = [1 − (1 − α)1/3]2 due to the oxygen accelerating thermal degradation from multiple perspectives. Moreover, PMR350 resin maintained high hardness and modulus even after thermal aging at 350 °C for 300 h. The results indicate that the resin exhibits excellent resistance to thermal and oxygen aging. This study represents the first systematic analysis of the thermal stability characteristics of PMR350 resin, offering essential theoretical insights and data support for understanding the mechanisms of thermal stability modification in PMR350 and its engineering applications.
Preparation and Stability Study of an Injectable Hydrogel for Artificial Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Cui Haifeng , Li Pengfei , Su Zekun , Guan Shiqiang , Dong He , Dong Xufeng
Published: September 2024

Currently available intraocular lenses (IOLs) on the market often differ significantly in elastic modulus compared to the natural human lens, which impairs their ability to respond effectively to the tension of the ciliary muscles for focal adjustment after implantation. In this study, we synthesized a polyacrylamide–sodium acrylate hydrogel (PAH) through the cross-linking polymerization of acrylamide and sodium acrylate. This hydrogel possesses excellent biocompatibility and exhibits several favorable properties. Notably, the hydrogel demonstrates high transparency (94%) and a refractive index (1.41 ± 0.07) that closely matches that of the human lens (1.42). Additionally, it shows strong compressive strength (14.00 kPa), good extensibility (1400%), and an appropriate swelling ratio (50 ± 2.5%). Crucially, the tensile modulus of the hydrogel is 2.07 kPa, which closely aligns with the elastic modulus of the human lens (1.70–2.10 kPa), enabling continuous focal adjustment under the tension exerted by the ciliary muscles.
Detecting Hailstorms in China from FY-4A Satellite with an Ensemble Machine Learning Model
Authors: Wu Qiong , Shou Yi-Xuan , Zheng Yong-Guang , Wu Fei , Wang Chun-Yuan
Published: September 2024

Hail poses a significant meteorological hazard in China, leading to substantial economic and agricultural damage. To enhance the detection of hail and mitigate these impacts, this study presents an ensemble machine learning model (BPNN+Dtree) that combines a backpropagation neural network (BPNN) and a decision tree (Dtree). Using FY-4A satellite and ERA5 reanalysis data, the model is trained on geostationary satellite infrared data and environmental parameters, offering comprehensive, all-day, and large-area hail monitoring over China. The ReliefF method is employed to select 13 key features from 29 physical quantities, emphasizing cloud-top and thermodynamic properties over dynamic ones as input features for the model to enhance its hail differentiation capability. The BPNN+Dtree ensemble model harnesses the strengths of both algorithms, improving the probability of detection (POD) to 0.69 while maintaining a reasonable false alarm ratio (FAR) on the test set. Moreover, the model’s spatial distribution of hail probability more closely matches the observational data, outperforming the individual BPNN and Dtree models. Furthermore, it demonstrates improved regional applicability over overshooting top (OT)-based methods in the China region. The identified high-frequency hail areas correspond to the north-south movement of the monsoon rain belt and are consistent with the northeast-southwest belt distribution observed using microwave-based methods.
Presenting a Long-Term, Reprocessed Dataset of Global Sea Surface Temperature Produced Using the OSTIA System
Authors: Worsfold Mark , Good Simon , Atkinson Chris , Embury Owen
Published: September 2024

Over the past few decades, the oceans have stored the majority of the excess heat in the climate system resulting from anthropogenic emissions. An accurate, long-term sea surface temperature (SST) dataset is essential for monitoring and researching the changes to the global oceans. A variety of SST datasets have been produced by various institutes over the years, and here, we present a new SST data record produced originally within the Copernicus Marine Environment Monitoring Service (which is therefore named CMEMS v2.0) and assess: (1) its accuracy compared to independent observations; (2) how it compares with the previous version (named CMEMS v1.2); and (3) its performance during two major volcanic eruptions. By comparing both versions of the CMEMS datasets using independent in situ observations, we show that both datasets are within the target accuracy of 0.1 K, but that CMEMS v2.0 is closer to the ground truth. The uncertainty fields generated by the two analyses were also compared, and CMEMS v2.0 was found to provide a more accurate estimate of its own uncertainties. Frequency and vector analysis of the SST fields determined that CMEMS v2.0 feature resolution and horizontal gradients were also superior, indicating that it resolved oceanic features with greater clarity. The behavior of the two analyses during two volcanic eruption events (Mt. Pinatubo and El Chichón) was examined. A comparison with the HadSST4 gridded in situ dataset suggested a cool bias in the CMEMS v2.0 dataset versus the v1.2 dataset following the Pinatubo eruption, although a comparison with sparser buoy-only observations yielded less clear results. No clear impact of the El Chichón eruption (which was a smaller event than Mt. Pinatubo) on CMEMS v2.0 was found. Overall, with the exception of a few specific and extreme events early in the time series, CMEMS v2.0 possesses high accuracy, resolution, and stability and is recommended to users.
Validating the Causal Relationship between Quantum Leadership and Employee Innovation Performance from the Perspective of Organizational Sustainability
Authors: Cai Han , Zhu Lingfeng , Jin Xiu
Published: September 2024

In the quantum era, the rapid development of enterprises cannot be separated from the efforts of employees, and the improvement of employee performance is also closely related to the behavior and attitude of organizational leaders. Quantum leadership, as a new leadership paradigm, differs from traditional Newtonian classical mechanics in that it emphasizes wholeness and interconnectedness, considers new ideas as the key to success, and values complex changes in the organizational environment, thus helping the organization provide sustainable development in the future. In addition, quantum leadership is able to manage in chaotic and potentially uncertain environments, encouraging employees to explore new ideas for solving problems, stimulating enthusiasm and motivation for innovation, and thus improving the level of employee performance. In particular, as the importance of innovation performance has been emphasized, it has been considered as a key variable in driving and promoting sustainable organizational development. Moreover, this study is different from previous studies that validate traditional leadership. We focus on an emerging type of leadership that distinguishes itself from traditional leadership—quantum leadership—which is a leadership model that is currently receiving a lot of attention. In the uncertain future environment, quantum leadership is gradually becoming a key factor for business growth and plays an important role in the survival and development of organizations in the future environment. Based on this research background, this study argues that quantum leadership is closely related to employee innovation performance. This study examines whether quantum leadership improves employee innovation performance and the sequential multiple mediating effects of organizational intelligence and knowledge sharing. Most of the previous studies focused only on the mediating or moderating role of the model. This study expands this area of research by incorporating the moderating role of innovative culture and validating its effects. This finding explores the development of quantum leadership and provides a theoretical foundation for related research. In addition, this study collected data from 345 employees of Chinese SMEs in the context of the fourth industrial revolution. These results suggest that quantum leadership positively affects innovation performance. Organizational intelligence and knowledge sharing have multiple serial mediating effects on quantum leadership and innovation performance. Moreover, the interaction between innovative culture and knowledge sharing improves employees’ innovation performance. Therefore, this study clarifies the causal relationship between quantum leadership and innovation performance through theoretical and validated research models. It lays the foundation for the sustainable development of organizations in the future.
Integrating Sustainability and Circular Economy into Consumer-Brand Dynamics: A Saudi Arabia Perspective
Authors: Abu-Bakar Halidu , Almutairi Tariq
Published: September 2024

This study examines the evolving consumer-brand dynamics within Saudi Arabia, particularly focusing on the integration of sustainability into consumer preferences and brand loyalty. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and non-parametric statistical methods, this research is anchored in Consumer Culture Theory (CCT) and Self-Congruence Theory, exploring how brand personality and consumer self-congruence influence sustainable consumption behaviors and the adoption of circular economy practices among Saudi consumers. The findings reveal a significant correlation between brand loyalty and sustainable purchase decisions, underscoring the pivotal role of brand identity in fostering eco-conscious consumer choices. Additionally, the research highlights a nuanced landscape of brand loyalty, where attributes, such as social responsibility, though currently less influential, present opportunities for brands to align more closely with consumer values and national sustainability goals. The study also identifies demographic factors, such as age and income level, as significant influencers of sustainable purchasing decisions. This study provides insights into the generational shift towards environmental awareness and the implications for businesses and policymaking within the context of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Carbon Farming of Main Staple Crops: A Systematic Review of Carbon Sequestration Potential
Authors: Arellano Vazquez Diego Armando , Gagliano Erica , Del Borghi Adriana , Tacchino Valeria , Spotorno Stefano , Gallo Michela
Published: September 2024

Carbon farming has become increasingly popular as it integrates agriculture, forestry, and diverse land use practices, all crucial for implementing European strategies aimed at capturing 310 million tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. These farming methods were proven to reliably increase the amount of carbon stored in the soil. However, there is a lack of discussion and consensus regarding the standards used to report these values and their implications. This article analyzes carbon sequestration rates, calculation methodologies, and communication procedures, as well as potential co-benefits and best practices. The average carbon sequestration rates in major staple crops range from very low values (0–0.5 Mg/ha/yr) to medium values (1–5 Mg/ha/yr). Scientific agricultural experiments in key global staple crops demonstrate positive rates of 4.96 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 in wheat–maize rotations and 0.52–0.69 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 in rice–wheat rotations. In agriculture, carbon sequestration rates are reported using different terms that are not consistent and pose communication challenges. This assessment involves a systematic review of the scientific literature, including articles, reviews, book chapters, and conference papers indexed in Scopus from 2001 to 2022. Specifically, this review focuses on long-term experiments, meta-analyses, and reviews that report an increase in soil carbon stock. The research trends observed, through a VOSviewer 1.6.18 analysis, show a steadily increasing interest in the field of carbon sequestration.
The Autophagy Receptor SQSTM1/p62 Is a Restriction Factor of HCMV Infection
Authors: Krämer Nadine , Mato Uxía Gestal , Krauter Steffi , Büscher Nicole , Afifi Ahmad , Herhaus Lina , Florin Luise , Plachter Bodo , Zimmermann Christine
Published: September 2024

(1) Background: Intrinsic defense mechanisms are pivotal host strategies to restrict viruses already at early stages of their infection. Here, we addressed the question of how the autophagy receptor sequestome 1 (SQSTM1/p62, hereafter referred to as p62) interferes with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection. (2) Methods: CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, mass spectrometry and the expression of p62 phosphovariants from recombinant HCMVs were used to address the role of p62 during infection. (3) Results: The knockout of p62 resulted in an increased release of HCMV progeny. Mass spectrometry revealed an interaction of p62 with cellular proteins required for nucleocytoplasmic transport. Phosphoproteomics further revealed that p62 is hyperphosphorylated at position S272 in HCMV-infected cells. Phosphorylated p62 showed enhanced nuclear retention, which is concordant with enhanced interaction with viral proteins relevant for genome replication and nuclear capsid egress. This modification led to reduced HCMV progeny release compared to a non-phosphorylated version of p62. (4) Conclusions: p62 is a restriction factor for HCMV replication. The activity of the receptor appears to be regulated by phosphorylation at position S272, leading to enhanced nuclear localization, viral protein degradation and impaired progeny production.
GSK-3β in Dendritic Cells Exerts Opposite Functions in Regulating Cross-Priming and Memory CD8 T Cell Responses Independent of β-Catenin
Authors: Fu Chunmei , Wang Jie , Ma Tianle , Yin Congcong , Zhou Li , Clausen Björn E. , Mi Qing-Sheng , Jiang Aimin
Published: September 2024

GSK-3β plays a critical role in regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and manipulating GSK-3β in dendritic cells (DCs) has been shown to improve the antitumor efficacy of DC vaccines. Since the inhibition of GSK-3β leads to the activation of β-catenin, we hypothesize that blocking GSK-3β in DCs negatively regulates DC-mediated CD8 T cell immunity and antitumor immunity. Using CD11c-GSK-3β−/− conditional knockout mice in which GSK-3β is genetically deleted in CD11c-expressing DCs, we surprisingly found that the deletion of GSK-3β in DCs resulted in increased antitumor immunity, which contradicted our initial expectation of reduced antitumor immunity due to the presumed upregulation of β-catenin in DCs. Indeed, we found by both Western blot and flow cytometry that the deletion of GSK-3β in DCs did not lead to augmented expression of β-catenin protein, suggesting that GSK-3β exerts its function independent of β-catenin. Supporting this notion, our single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis revealed that GSK-3β-deficient DCs exhibited distinct gene expression patterns with minimally overlapping differentially expressed genes (DEGs) compared to DCs with activated β-catenin. This suggests that the deletion of GSK-3β in DCs is unlikely to lead to upregulation of β-catenin at the transcriptional level. Consistent with enhanced antitumor immunity, we also found that CD11c-GSK-3β−/− mice exhibited significantly augmented cross-priming of antigen-specific CD8 T cells following DC-targeted vaccines. We further found that the deletion of GSK-3β in DCs completely abrogated memory CD8 T cell responses, suggesting that GSK-3β in DCs also plays a negative role in regulating the differentiation and/or maintenance of memory CD8 T cells. scRNA-seq analysis further revealed that although the deletion of GSK-3β in DCs positively regulated transcriptional programs for effector differentiation and function of primed antigen-specific CD8 T cells in CD11c-GSK-3β−/− mice during the priming phase, it resulted in significantly reduced antigen-specific memory CD8 T cells, consistent with diminished memory responses. Taken together, our data demonstrate that GSK-3β in DCs has opposite functions in regulating cross-priming and memory CD8 T cell responses, and GSK-3β exerts its functions independent of its regulation of β-catenin. These novel insights suggest that targeting GSK-3β in cancer immunotherapies must consider its dual role in CD8 T cell responses.
Microalgal–Bacteria Biofilm in Wastewater Treatment: Advantages, Principles, and Establishment
Authors: Xu Shiling , Li Zimu , Yu Sheng , Chen Zhipeng , Xu Jiajie , Qiu Shuang , Ge Shijian
Published: September 2024

The attached microalgal–bacterial consortium (microalgae–bacteria biofilm, MBBF) has been increasingly recognized in wastewater treatment for its superior pollutant removal efficiency, resilience to toxic substances, and improved harvesting performance. This review initially discusses the advantages of MBBFs compared to activated sludge and suspended microalgal–bacterial consortia. These advantages stem from the coexistence of pollutant removal pathways for the bacteria and microalgae in MBBFs, as well as the synergistic interactions between the microalgae and bacteria that enhance pollutant removal and resilience capabilities. Subsequently, the establishment of the MBBF system is emphasized, covering the establishment process, influencing factors of MBBF formation, and the utilization of photobioreactors. Lastly, the challenges associated with implementing MBBFs in wastewater treatment are deliberated. This study aims to present a detailed and comprehensive overview of the application of MBBFs for wastewater treatment and biomass production.
A Novel Integrated Approach to Assess Groundwater Appropriateness for Agricultural Uses in the Eastern Coastal Region of India
Authors: Kaliyappan Shunmuga Priya , Hasher Fahdah Falah ben , Abdo Hazem Ghassan , Sajil Kumar Pazhuparambil Jayarajan , Paneerselvam Balamurugan
Published: September 2024

Due to the increase in demand for water, the rapid growth of urbanization and industrialization is the main threat to the source and quality of groundwater. The present study aimed to assess the suitability of groundwater for agricultural purposes in coastal regions using integrated approaches such as the saltwater mixing index (SWMI), the mineral saturation index (MSI), the agriculture suitability index (ASI), and unsupervised machine learning (USML) techniques. The result of the SWMI revealed that 20 and 17 sample locations were highly affected by saltwater intrusion in the study region’s northern and southeastern parts during the pre- and post-monsoon seasons. The detailed analysis of electrical conductivity in groundwater revealed that 19.64% and 14.29% of the samples were unfit for irrigation purposes, especially five sample locations, during both seasons. Regarding the overall suitability of groundwater for irrigation uses, the ASI values divulged that 8.9% of the samples were unsuitable for irrigation purposes. The spatial analysis of the ASI value indicated that 43.19 and 85.33 sq. km of area were unsuitable for irrigation practices. Additionally, the USML techniques identified the most influenced parameters such as Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl−, and SO42− during both seasons. The present study results help maintain proper, sustainable water management in the study region.
Features of the accumulation of pollutants in plant feed and their translocation into the milk of cows
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “South Ural State Agrarian University”, Russia, Chelyabinsk Region, Troitsk, Romanova O. V. , Koshelev S. N. ,   Kurgan Maltsev State Agricultural Academy – a branch of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Kurgan State University”, Russia, Kurgan region, Lesnikovo, Kostomakhin N. M. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Russian State Agrarian University – Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy”, Russia, Moscow
Published: September 2024

One of the sources of toxic substances entering the human body may be a valuable food product as milk. The intensity of exposure of ecotoxicants to milk of cows is determined by a number of factors, among which the main one is feed. The purpose of the research was to study the characteristics of the accumulation of heavy metals and radionuclides in plant feed, and their translocation from rations of cows into milk. The research was carried out in agricultural enterprises of the Shchuchansky district of the Kurgan region. In order to obtain the most complete information about the degree of contamination of the studied objects, the area was divided into fi ve zones taking into account the geographical location such as northern (Peschanskoye village), southern (Sukhoborskoye village), western (Beloyarskoye village), eastern (Petrovskoye village) and central (Chumlyak village) zone. The content of heavy metals in the feed and milk of cows was determined such as copper, zinc, cadmium, lead and radionuclides such as strontium-90 and cesium-137. The features of the accumulation of heavy metals and radionuclides depending on the type of feed as well as the dependence of the concentration of toxic substances in the ration on their amount in feed have been established. Regression equations have been calculated to predict changes in the concentration of heavy metals and radionuclides in the daily ration depending on their content in feed. The coeffi cients of translocation of heavy metals and radionuclides from the ration into the milk of cows during the stall and pasture periods were determined, which showed the absence of a connection between the presence of ecotoxicants in feed and milk. The maximum degree of contamination of rations was observed in the northern zone. The dependence of the concentration of toxic substances in the ration on their amount in feed has been established. No relation was found between the content of heavy metals and radionuclides in the rations and milk of cows. As the toxicity of the ration increased, the transfer coeffi cient of ecotoxicants decreased. During the pasture period, the transition coeffi cient was higher than during the stall period. The obtained research results would make it possible to regulate the intake of toxic elements into livestock products by selecting the components of the ration.
Organization and improvement of the structure of repair cycles of agricultural machinery
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education of the Russian Academy of Agriculture named after K. A. Timiryazev, Moscow, Russia, Kataev A. V. , Malykha E. F. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education of the Russian Academy of Agriculture named after K. A. Timiryazev, Moscow, Russia
Published: September 2024

The article discusses the issues of organization and improvement of the structure of repair cycles during routine maintenance of equipment. The use of a rational structure of the repair cycle allows the fullest use of the potential resource of machines and their components, helps to reduce downtime in repairs and the efficient use of production capacities of repair enterprises.
Simulation of soil cutting blade wear
Authors:   FSBI FNCC VIM, Mironov D. A., , Liskin I. V. ,   FSBI FNCC VIM, Kostomakhin M. N. ,   FSBI FNCC VIM
Published: September 2024

The results of a laboratory study of the wear patterns of blades of tillage parts are presented. To substantiate the model of soil-cutting blade wear in laboratory studies. Applied installation, providing rectilinear movement of the sample, one-time interaction of the blade with the particles of abrasive mass, and reproducing chip separation, inherent in most loamy soils. The dependence of the angle of inclination of the occipital chamfer to the bottom of the furrow, the width of the occipital chamfer and blade wear along the length of the sample from the cutting path, taken in studies for the main parameters of wear, were obtained. It was found that with increasing depth of cut, the intensity of wear increases, but when there are irregularities and undulations of the bottom of the furrow, it decreases due to the increase in the cutting path with lower loads due to the alternation of depressions and protrusions at the bottom of the furrow. With increasing hardness of the abrasive mass, the intensity of wear of the blade increases, at the same time the value of the stabilized angle of the occipital chamfer to the bottom of the furrow decreases, due to changes in the wear mechanism. With increasing cutting speed, the intensity of blade wear increases due to increased soil resistance forces and specifi c energy expended on its deformation and destruction. It was shown that the abrasive model of the soil corresponds to the real loamy soil for the study of wear of cutting elements. The expansion of the characteristics of the soil model peculiar to "nature" is due to the inclusion of additional components, in particular ceresin and vaseline, in the composition of the base "paraffin + quartz particles".
Treatment of surface wastewater from poultry farms when use water protection aggregate systems
Authors:   Ural Federal Agrarian Research Center Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences", Ilyasov O. R. ,   , Russia, Yekaterinburg, Koshelev S. N. ,   Kurgan State Agricultural Academy named after T.S. Maltsev — branch  Kurgan State University, Kurgan Region, Lesnikovo village, Russia, Kostomakhin N. M. ,   Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow State Agricultural Academy named after K. A. Timiryazev", Moscow, Russia, Kostomakhin M. N. ,   FSBI FNCC VIM, Gavrilin I. I. ,   Ural State University of Railway Engineering, Yekaterinburg, Russia
Published: September 2024

During the operation of poultry farms a large amount of poultry manure is accumulated. Surface wastewater from landfills for storing poultry manure can become the main source of pollution of natural waters. Thus, one of the most important problems of environmental protection is the development of eff ective systems for protecting aquatic ecosystems from pollution by waste water generated at landfi lls for storing poultry manure. The purpose of research was the analysis of water protection systems for treatment of surface wastewater from the territory of poultry farms. The authors of the article consider the problem of protection of water bodies from contamination by surface wastewater from the catchment area of poultry farms. The example of surface wastewater from the catchment area of the poultry farm "Sverdlovskaya" has shown the negative impact on water ecosystems. Our own studies of snow contamination from the catchment area of the poultry farm have shown a high content of not only organic and biogenic substances, but also heavy metals. A biotechnology of wastewater treatment using natural ion-exchange materials, followed by bioregeneration of the latter by higher aquatic vegetation, has been developed. The use of an accumulative phytofilter is an effective method of protecting water ecosystems from contamination by surface wastewater from catchment areas of poultry farms, and the design ensures not only the environmental friendliness of the technology, but also naturally fi ts into the landscape of the area.
A relação entre a gestrinona e o transtorno do desejo sexual hipoativo durante após a menopausa: uma revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Lacerda Anna Gabriela Santana de , Macedo Heloisa Bavilheri , Zaki Isabela Bicalho , Martucci Laura , Cançado Leticia Serra , Alcanfor Marcos Alves , Machado Nathana Marçal , Costa Vitoria Contis , Silva Gustavo Maximiliano Dutra da
Published: September 2024

O transtorno de interesse e excitação sexual em mulheres (desejo sexual hipoativo) é uma das categorias que que compõe a Disfunção Sexual Feminina, que atinge mais de 70% das mulheres ao longo da vida e está intimamente relacionada com a idade das mesmas e como consequência, com o período de menopausa. Tal período é caracterizado por declínio nos níveis de estrogênio e androgênios ovarianos e como contramedida clínica, tem-se o uso de TRH e a partir da década de 70, o estudo para uso da gestrinona (derivado sintético da 19-nortesterona) em DSH. Desta forma, após levantamento de dados a análise de literaturas cientificas com o intuito de revisão em plataformas como LILACS, PubMed, Scielo, Google Acadêmico e The Lancet, ainda que haja uso da gestrinona, não se tem dados sobre seu uso a longo prazo e não estando bem estabelecida a mesma não tem indicação da Endocrine Society, SBEM, NAMS e FEBRASGO.
Compreensão sobre o tratamento cirúrgico da endocardite em válvulas pulmonares Transcateter Melody
Authors: Gomes João Vitor Ferraz , Lopes Thayanne Mayara de Oliveira , Schiattarella Millan Christinne da Silva , Apolinário Marcos Vinicius Vieira , Brito Maria Eduarda Silva , Queiroz Lucas Ferraz Freire de , Cavalcanti Neto Eduardo Jorge de Souza , Soares Luiz Eduardo Vilar , Nepomuceno Tiago Leal , Torres Marcelo Florêncio , Marques David Arruda Tavares de Queiroz , Araújo Kaiky Gouveia Nóbrega Campelo , Reis Marcelo Arteiro Costa , Pragana Maria Luisa Sampaio de França , Cavalcante Nícolas Medeiros , Silva Lillian Jenne de Assis , Souza José Lucas Silva de , Texeira Thais Moura , Costa Walter Werleys Souza , Azevedo Renata Cristina Santos de , Perazzo Ana Clara Siqueira Teixeira , Marafante Maria Eduarda Osório
Published: September 2024

Levando em consideração o aumento da dependência da substituição da válvula pulmonar transcateter (TPV) como uma alternativa minimamente invasiva para a o mal funcionamento da saída do ventrículo direito (TSVD), a válvula transcateter Melody tornou-se um exemplo no tratamento de condições cardíacas. Apesar da sua utilização ser disseminada e seus  benefícios bastante significativos na redução da necessidade de cirurgias cardíacas abertas consecutivas, surgiram novas preocupações sobre complicações como a endocardite infecciosa e  a trombose valvar,devido isso é necessário um manejo mais cuidadoso a esses pacientes. Este estudo revisa a literatura de forma sistemática sobre as complicações existentes, com foco na incidência e manejo da endocardite infecciosa e a durabilidade da válvula. Os achados indicam que, embora a válvula Melody seja eficaz na reabilitação da função da válvula pulmonar, os riscos de complicações, principalmente da endocardite infecciosa, são maiores em comparação com outras TPVs, a exemplo a válvula Sapien. O que nos mostra a importância do monitoramento contínuo e da criação de novas abordagens mais cuidadosas para o manejo desses pacientes. Diante disso, embora a válvula Melody seja valiosa para o manejo da disfunção do TSVD, mais pesquisas são necessárias para melhorar os resultados dos pacientes e reduzir as complicações mais graves, com foco na identificação de fatores desencadeantes precocemente e no desenvolvimento de protocolos de manejo eficazes.
A influência familiar nos hábitos alimentares de crianças na fase pré-escolar
Authors: Neves Stephanie Camargo Benevides , Rodrigues Maria Eduarda , Rodrigues Karina Gabrielly da Silva , Brito Júlia Morgana Silva de , Nova Filho Sidrack Lucas Vila
Published: September 2024

O desenvolvimento de hábitos alimentares em crianças pré-escolares é crucial para a formação de seu estilo de vida e a convivência familiar influencia diretamente esses hábitos. Os pais transmitem seus costumes alimentares aos filhos, e têm a responsabilidade de fornecer uma dieta equilibrada, o que nem sempre acontece. Nesse contexto, o objetivo deste trabalho é explorar as influências parentais nos hábitos alimentares infantis na fase pré-escolar. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura realizada na PubMed, LILACS e SciELO. Após a busca de dados, foram selecionados 6 artigos que cumpriram os critérios de inclusão. A literatura destaca que a educação alimentar desde a base familiar reflete em diversos aspectos nutricionais ao longo da infância determinando a base para suas escolhas. A criança em fase pré-escolar é influenciada na sua alimentação a partir do meio em que convive, seja em casa ou escola, necessitando assim de um acompanhamento especial da família, rede pedagógica e técnicas adequadas de educação alimentar para que não venham a desenvolver um pior padrão alimentar. Esta revisão enfatiza a influência familiar nos hábitos alimentares de crianças pré-escolares, destacando que práticas parentais positivas e negativas e sua repercussão na alimentação infantil. A oferta excessiva de alimentos industrializados e a falta de envolvimento dos pais contribuem para comportamentos alimentares problemáticos e risco de obesidade, por outro lado, a educação nutricional integrada entre família, escola e mídia assim como políticas públicas de segurança alimentar e programas educativos promovem um ambiente alimentar mais adequado para esta criança.
Detecção de Legionella pneumophila em fontes de águas ornamentais no Distrito Federal
Authors: Oliveira Aline Rocha , Alves Marcella Moreira , Gabriel Luiza Resende Lara , Kolarik Maite Lobo , Figueiredo Fernanda Nomiyama , Castro Fabíola Fernandes dos Santos
Published: September 2024

Legionella é uma bactéria Gram-negativa, não fermentadora de carboidratos, aeróbicas, em formato de bacilo, responsável pela Legionelose, com quadro predominante de pneumonia, e uma forma respiratória não pneumônica, denominada Febre de Pontiac. Em razão da limitação de pesquisas ambientais preexistentes no Distrito Federal e na literatura acerca do assunto esse trabalho foi realizado em um primeiro momento em 2018, em que foram coletadas 24 amostras as quais foram inoculadas em um laminocultivo contendo ágar BCYE, seletivo para Legionella. Confirmou-se sua presença em duas amostras (8,33%). Já em 2023, foram coletadas 11 amostras que foram analisadas e confirmadas utilizando-se coloração Gram e semeadura em ágar sangue, demonstrando a bactéria em três amostras (27,27%). Em conclusão, foi detectada a presença de Legionella em fontes de água que, apesar de não tratadas, indicam a presença da bactéria pelo Distrito Federal, oferecendo riscos para a população, pois a mesma pode persistir mesmo após o tratamento. Por isso, é necessário um controle microbiológico mais eficaz para esse micro-organismo.
The reality of agricultural investment in algeria and its role in achieving food security: an analytical study of the wheat market in Algeria (2016-2022)
Authors: Sabah Garoui , Rabie Aissani
Published: September 2024

Food security has become a primary concern for both developing and developed nations alike, as it is fundamentally linked to achieving national sovereignty and stability. Algeria, like many other countries, is actively striving to attain robust food security indicators, leveraging its abundant resources. Consequently, this research paper aims to illuminate the concept of food security and the pivotal role of the wheat market in its realization, while delving into its multifaceted dimensions. To achieve this objective, we have conducted an analytical study of Algeria's domestic wheat market spanning from 2016 to 2022. Our analysis encompassed production, wheat imports, consumption. Despite Algeria's diverse climate and vast land area, our findings reveal a persistent economic dependency on wheat imports. This reliance is attributed to the encroachment of urban areas on agricultural lands, coupled with inefficient domestic agricultural policies and outdated equipment that fails to keep pace with technological advancements.