bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INVESTIGATION OF HUMIC SUBSTANCES FROM NATIVE AND OXIDISED BROWN COALS BY ANALYTICAL SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY
Authors: VOTOLIN K.S. , SOZINOV S.A. , ZHEREBTSOV S.I. , SHPAKODRAEV K.M.
Published: February 2025

The samples of native and naturally oxidised brown coals from the Tisul deposit of the Kansk-Achinsk coal basin, as well as the components isolated from them (humic acids (HA), fulvic acids (FA) and residual coal (RC)) were studied using the method of analytical scanning electron microscopy, proximate and ultimate analysis. It has been found that oxidised brown coal is characterised by an increased yield of HA, FA and volatile substances, ash content, oxygen, nitrogen and sulphur content, with lower concentrations of carbon and hydrogen in comparison with native coal. The HA fractions isolated from coal have a higher carbon content in comparison to FA fractions, but lower oxygen, nitrogen and sulphur content. Electron microscopic studies have shown that natural oxidation significantly affects the morphology of coal particles through their destruction, grinding, rounding and the formation of surface defects. Similar changes in morphology can be partially traced in the particles of HA, FA and RC powders isolated from the oxidized form of brown coal. The surface of oxidised brown coal is saturated with oxygen and enriched with mineral components, mainly consisting of Si, Ca, Fe and Al, in the form of a separate phase and inclusions in the organic mass of coal. For native coal, the content of these elements is significantly lower. The surface of HA, FA and RC powders contains mineral components inherited from original brown coal, as well as large NaCl crystals, which are a by-product of the alkaline extraction process. The RC surface has been determined to contain the increased content of silicon oxides and clay minerals, which are extracted from initial coals at the stages of HA and FA isolation only in insignificant amounts, thus being mainly deposited in RC. In general, the surface of coal derivatives (HA, FA and RC) obtained from oxidised raw materials is characterised by an increased content of oxygen and mineral components in comparison with the surface of native analogues.
INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECT OF ELECTRODE PITCH HEAT TREATMENT ON THE YIELD OF CARBONISATION PRODUCTS
Authors: KOVALEV R.YU. , NIKITIN A.P.
Published: February 2025

The effect of preliminary heat treatment of medium-temperature electrode pitches on the yield of carbonisate is investigated. The objects of investigation were electrode pitches: B-grade pitch (Altai-Koks JSC, Zarinsk), B1-grade pitch (Evraz ZSMK JSC, Novokuznetsk). The pitches were treated by heating with further thermostating at 300 °C for different time intervals. For medium-temperature pitches, the dependences of the yields of heat treatment products, the yield of volatile substances, softening temperature on process duration were determined. It has been found that an increase in the softening point value proceeds at a higher rate in the case of B-grade pitch treatment than for B1-grade pitch, which may be due to a more intense decrease in the yield of volatiles for B-grade pitch in comparison with B1-grade pitch. It has been shown that after the heat treatment of the pitches, the content of α-fraction (the substances insoluble in toluene) in the final product increases by 46.8 % in the pitches of both grades. The dependence of carbonisate yield on the duration of the heat treatment of the pitch has been determined. It is found that preliminary heat treatment of pitch at 300 °C for 5 h allows an increase in the yield of carbonisate by 5 %. It is shown for the first time that the yield of carbonisate for B1-grade electrode pitch is higher than for B-grade electrode pitch, which correlates with the higher content of α1-fraction (the substances insoluble in quinoline) in the former. This dependence is also retained for heat treated pitches. For the first time, the dependence of the yield of volatile substances in carbonisates on the duration of heat treatment of pitches was established.
Rescue Strategy in Cardiogenic Shock: Emergency Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation for Failed Bioprosthetic Valve – Case Report
Authors: Kundelis Ricardas , Bajoras Vilhelmas , Čėsna Sigitas , Davidavičius Giedrius
Published: February 2025

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as an essential therapeutic intervention for patients with severe aortic valve disease, providing a less invasive alternative to traditional surgery, particularly in high-risk individuals. TAVI is also increasingly utilized as a valve-in-valve strategy in cases of a bioprosthetic valve failure. However, data on the efficacy of TAVI in the context of a hemodynamic collapse remain limited.Methods: This report represents a young, high-risk patient with a failed bioprosthetic valve and cardiogenic shock treated successfully with TAVI.Results: Emergency TAVI using a Medtronic Evolut Pro+ device achieved rapid hemodynamic stabilization and favorable post-procedural clinical and functional outcomes. Intermittent complete atrioventricular block necessitated the implantation of a permanent pacemaker.Conclusions: This case highlights the potential of TAVI as a safe and effective intervention in critical clinical scenarios. Emergency TAVI is a viable therapeutic intervention for patients with failed surgical bioprostheses presenting with cardiogenic shock.
Evaluation of Agronomic performance and Biomass Yield of Buffel grass and Silver leaf desmodium Grown in Pure Stands and in Mixture At Different Harvesting Times in Gozamen District, East Gojjam Zone, Ethiopia.
Authors:   Department of Animal Sciences, Raya University, P. O. Box 92, Machew, Ethioipia, Menalu Demlew , Berhanu Alemu ,   Department of Animal Sciences, Debre Markos University, P. O. Box 269, Debre Markos, Ethiopia, Asnakew Awuk ,   Department of Animal Sciences, Debre Markos University, P. O. Box 269, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
Published: February 2025

The objectives of this study were evaluating the effect of grass-legume mixture and time of harvesting on the agronomic performance and biomass yield of Buffel grass and Silver leaf desmodium planted in pure stand and in mixture. The study was conducted in a 3 x3 factorial arrangement of treatments in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The first factor was forage species (Buffelgrass, Silver leaf desmodium and Buffelgrass/Silver leaf desmodium mixture) and three times of harvesting (HT1, HT2, and HT3). Plant height, number of branches per plant of the legume, leaf length and leaf area of the grass were significantly affected (p<0.05) by harvesting time. Number of tillers per plant, basal circumference and number of leaves per plant of the grass were significantly affected by harvesting time and forage species, and the interaction effect was significant (p>0.05) on the basal circumference of the grass. DM yield of Buffelgrass was significantly affected by harvesting times. The highest DM yield in Buffelgrass was recorded in the later harvesting time (HT3) compared to HT1 and HT2. The highest DMY in Buffelgrass (3.0 t /ha) was recorded at Buffelgrass planted with desmodium compared to (2.79 t /ha) at the sole Buffel grass. In Silver leaf desmodium, the highest DMY (2.64 t/ha) was recorded at the third harvesting time (HT3) while the least (1.95 t/ha) was recorded at the first harvesting time. The total DMY recorded at grass/legume mixture was higher compared to the grass and forage legume grown in pure-stand. Harvesting time, forage species and their interaction showed significant (p<0.001) effect on CPY. Generally, agronomic performance and dry matter yields of grass and legume monocultures, as well as the mixture, were generally low at the early days of harvesting compared to later days of harvesting.
Analysis of the “organic” onion Value chain in Niger: Case of farmer’s organization of SUBA-SE
Authors:   Chercheur Agro économiste, Département d’Economie, Sociologie Rurale et Transfert de Technologie, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique du Niger (INRAN)., Dr. Adam Mamadou
Published: February 2025

IN FRENCH

Au Niger, diverses actions de développement ont été initiées afin de promouvoir l’agriculture biologique. Ainsi, certains groupements se sont spécialisés dans la production de l’oignon biologique et des acteurs se constitués au niveau des différents maillons. Ce travail est basée sur l’approche chaîne de valeur pour cartographier les principaux acteurs et analyser les valeurs ajoutées par maillon. Pour ce faire des enquêtes systémiques ont été réalisées auprès des principaux acteurs de la chaîne de valeur de l’oignon biologique. Les résultats montrent cinq principaux maillons. Le stockage de l’oignon constitue le principal maillon avec une valeur ajoutée de 44,33 %, subit par la vente en détails qui représente 25,06 %. La production crée 12,5 % de valeur ajoutée, les ventes en gros 6,17%, en demi-gros 6,17 et la collecte 5,78 %. La production stockée est destinée en grande quantité à l’exportation vers les pays voisins et en faible quantité à la consommation nationale. Cependant, la demande locale en oignon biologique n’est pas satisfaite. Une filière rassurante doit se construire sur la base d’une norme ou d’un cahier de charge pour répondre aux attentes de qualité des consommateurs.

ENGLISH

In Niger, various development actions have been initiated to promote organic farming. Thus, some groups have specialized in the production of organic onions and players are constituted at the level of the various links. This work is based on the value chain approach to map the main players and analyze the added values by link. To do this, systemic surveys were conducted among the main players in the organic onion value chain. The results show five main links. The storage of the onion is the main link with a value added of 44.33%, suffered by the retail sale which represents 25.06%. Production creates 12.5% value-added and wholesale sales 6.17%, half-gross 6.17% and collecting 5.78%. Stored production is destined in large quantities for export to neighboring countries and in small quantities for domestic consumption. However, the local demand for organic onion is not satisfied and a sector must be built on the basis of a standard or a specification to meet the quality expectations of consumers.
Impact of digital screen use on health and wellbeing of children and adolescents: A narrative review
Authors: Cullen Julie , Muntz Alex , Marsh Samantha , Simmonds Lorna , Mayes Jan , O'Neill Keryn , Duncan Scott
Published: February 2025

As the world digitises, children and adolescents are increasingly using digital technologies. These devices offer benefits such as exposure to social contacts and support, potential learning opportunities and access to health promotion material. However, along with these benefits, emerging evidence is indicating that frequent, extended use of digital devices is associated with negative impacts on the health and wellbeing of children and adolescents. There are many ways to use devices both for learning and recreation, so context of use is important when considering these impacts. As the pace of change unfolds, this narrative review provides an overview of the impacts of using digital technologies on the health and wellbeing of children and adolescents across eight areas: vision, hearing, obesity, pain, sleep, cognition, mental health, and social impacts. Key points summarise the current state of evidence with relating expert opinion on reducing the risk of harm, where indicated, with the aim to aid decision-making and risk intervention. Sources include global large-scale studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. Physiotherapists, with a professional scope focusing on physical health, quality of life, health promotion and advocacy, are well positioned to support children and families, and to contribute to interventions aimed at reducing risk.
Do Landlords Respond to Wage Policy? Estimating the Minimum Wage Effect on Apartment Rent Prices
Authors: Bowdle Spencer
Published: February 2025

My primary data source is RealPage, Inc.âa company that surveys multifamily rental properties to provide rental market analytics and property management services to landlordsâwhich collects data on thousands of apartment buildings throughout the U.S. This dataset allows me to track each individual property's best available asking rent, aggregated across floor plans, on a monthly basis beginning in 2010. For minimum wage policies, I use data from Vaghul and Zipperer (2022) that track monthly statutory minimum wage schedules in the United States. I merge these schedules onto the RealPage data at the census block level to obtain the effective local minimum wage schedule for every apartment. Therefore, each apartment is assigned the minimum wage policy that applies to the census block in which it is located. Census blocks are the smallest geographic unit used by the Census Bureau and represent a notably narrow geographic focus, with urban census blocks resembling city blocks.
Shaping professional identity: a descriptive qualitative study on Health and Rehabilitation final year students in higher education.
Authors: Sonday Amshuda
Published: February 2025

Background: Professional identity represents a person's philosophy of their profession. This identity defines what it means to be and act as a professional.Aim: This paper will describe the factors that shaped the professional identity of students in Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Communication Sciences Disorders during their four years (2015 - 2018) of studies in the Faculty of Health Sciences in a higher education institution.Methodology: A descriptive qualitative design was used to describe the factors that emerged. Seven participants were purposively selected from the Faculty of Health Sciences. Individual interviews and a focus group with participants were conducted. Data were analysed inductively.Findings: The results generated the theme 'The curriculum and experiences within practice and professional environments shape professional identity'. The findings highlighted how critical events in higher education may have influenced the participants to develop a professional identity.Conclusion: The curriculum played an integral role in defining how the narrative for each participant was played out and how professional and practice environments greatly shaped the students' developing professional self.
Standardized protocol for collecting community-level bee data
Authors: Levenson Hannah , Messinger Carril Olivia , Turley Nash , Maffei Clare , LeBuhn Gretchen , Griswold Terry , Williams Neal , Hung James , Irwin Rebecca , Du Clos Brianne , Woodard Sarah
Published: February 2025

A key component of assessing bee biodiversity patterns and supporting bee conservation is documenting bee communities. When integrated with additional ecological data, community-level data help reveal the relative impact of local- and landscape-scale factors on bee taxa. As such, these data can inform management decisions to support bee diversity and mitigate environmental drivers of decline. However, methods for sampling bee communities vary greatly across projects, making it difficult to compare existing datasets or design new, interoperable studies. Here, we provide a standardized protocol for collecting community-level bee biodiversity data and offer guidance on inventorying, surveying, and monitoring of bee communities. We also present case studies to illustrate how different components of the protocol could be implemented. Although we discuss the benefits of collecting physical specimens, we emphasize the importance of responsible collecting and highlight key strategies to minimize environmental impact while maximizing the value of the work in new projects. This protocol is part of a series developed in association with the U.S. National Native Bee Monitoring Network to standardize bee monitoring practices.
TISSUE ENGINEERED MATRIX BASED ON SILK FIBROIN FOR CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY
Authors: Senokosova Evgenia A. , Matveeva Vera G. , Khanova Maryam Yu. , Krivkina Evgenia O. , Mironov Andrey V. , Onischchenko Pavel S. , Mukhamadiyarov Rinat A. , Antonova Larisa V.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

The article reports on the progress in the development of a method for producing porous nonwoven material based on silk fibroin, and the following study of its structural, physical, and mechanical properties. The findings indicate that the obtained material is similar in its characteristics to the native artery thus proving that silk fibroin has a high potential in vascular tissue engineering.

 

Abstract

Background. Natural polymer – silk fibroin, obtained from silkworm cocoons, is a promising biomaterial. Tissue engineering has allowed us to obtain 3D-scaffolds based on silk fibroin for cardiovascular surgery.

Aim. To make a porous matrix based on regenerated silk fibroin (SF) and to study its characteristics in vitro.

Methods.  Silk was refined in an alkaline solution with further dissolution in LiBr, dialysis and freeze drying to obtain sponges. Matrices based on 15%, 18% and 20% SF in hexafluoroisopropanol were manufactured by electrospinning. By incubation in ethanol, methanol or isopropanol the β-sheet of SF was made water-insoluble. The structure of the matrix surface and the cross-section were studied by scanning electron microscopy. Physical and mechanical characteristics were evaluated using a universal bursting strength tester.

Results. The optimal electrospinning parameters for 15% solution were as follows: needle 22 G; tip to collector 15 cm; voltage 20 kV; solution feed rate 1.0 mL/h; rotational speed of 200 rpm; humidity 65% and room temperature 23 °C. The obtained matrix had “flat fibers” with a width of 4.84 (4.20; 5.47) microns and a small number of shallow pores with a diameter of 8.65 (5.01; 11.13) microns. The walls of the matrix consisted of fibers with a diameter of 11.70 (10.04; 13.90) microns with a large number of pores with a diameter of 4.89 (4.46; 6.05) microns. Incubation of samples in 70% ethanol allowed us to form a non-water-soluble form of the SF matrix that has physical and mechanical characteristics comparable to sheep carotid arteries.

Conclusion. We have developed a porous 3D matrix based on 15% silk fibroin with satisfactory structural, physical and mechanical characteristics. It is necessary to further conduct in vitro studies to fully understand the characteristics of the manufactured material for further testing on in vivo models.
ASSOCIATION OF BETA-ADRENOREACTIVITY OF ERYTHROCYTE MEMBRANES WITH THE SEVERITY OF CHRONIC HEART FAILURE IN PATIENTS WITH CORONARY HEART DISEASE
Authors: Muslimova Elvira F. , Rebrova Tatiana Yu. , Sonduev Erdeni L. , Popova Valeriya O. , Kozlov Boris N. , Afanasiev Sergey A.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

Beta-adrenoreactivity of erythrocyte membranes (beta-ARM) is an indirect indicator of the activity of the sympathoadrenal system and can act as a marker of the severity of heart failure. In patients with chronic coronary artery disease, higher beta-ARM values are associated with a lower left ventricular ejection fraction. Beta-ARM is elevated in people who have suffered a prior myocardial infarction.

 

Abstract

Aim. To assess the relationship between erythrocyte membrane beta-adrenoreactivity (beta-ARM) and the level of catecholamines in the blood with the functional state of the myocardium in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) of ischemic origin.

Methods. The study included 116 patients with chronic ischemic heart disease, of which 56.9% of patients had postinfarction cardiosclerosis (PICS). In the sample, functional class (FC) I CHF was present in 10.3% of patients, FC II in 56.0% of patients, and FC III in 33.6% of patients. Based on echocardiography data, CHF with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF≥50%) was detected in 78.4% of patients, in 7.8% of patients with reduced LVEF<40%, and in 13.8% of patients with mid‐range LVEF 40–49%. The levels of adrenaline and norepinephrine in the blood plasma were determined using the ELISA kits. Beta-ARM was assessed using the Beta-ARM-Agate kit in accordance with the manufacturer's protocol.

Results. The study sample revealed an inverse relationship between beta-ARM and LVEF (r = –0.318, p = 0.001), as well as a direct correlation with the LV sphericity index (r = 0.331, p = 0.001). An inverse linear relationship was found between the LVEF and the level of adrenaline (r = –0.287, p = 0.010) and norepinephrine (r = –0.418, p < 0.001). Patients with PICS had higher values of beta-ARM (29.7% (19.2; 39.1) vs 21.4% (14.8; 26.7), p = 0.004) and norepinephrine (30.5% (24.3; 41.8) vs 26.9% (19.6; 30.1), p = 0.042) compared with patients without PICS. Groups with different CHF FCs had comparable levels of catecholamines, but differed in beta-ARM (p = 0.029): 22.8% (19.5; 29.2) with FC I, 21.4% (14.8; 28.4) with FC II, 30.1% (19.4; 40.1) with FC III. There was a tendency towards differences in beta-ARM between groups in LVEF (p = 0.053).

Conclusion. Thus, the results of the study revealed an association between beta-ARM and norepinephrine levels with systolic myocardial dysfunction. Higher values of beta-ARM and norepinephrine correlate with lower LVEF and indicate an unfavorable course of heart failure.
DIAGNOSTIC SIGNIFICANCE OF THE NEAR-INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY IN THE PREVENTION OF CEREBRAL INJURY DURING SURGICAL CORRECTION OF CONGENITAL HEART DEFECTS IN CHILDREN
Authors: Mikhailova Alyona A. , Ivkin Artem A. , Grigoriev Evgeny V.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

With the recent advancement in cardiopulmonary bypass techniques in pediatric cardiac surgery, the issue of organ protection during surgery is becoming more urgent, in particular cerebral protection is turning into one of the most important parts of patient management. The aim of this literature review is to determine the role of near-infrared spectroscopy among a variety of techniques for monitoring cerebral function.

 

Abstract

Near-infrared spectroscopy evaluates regional tissue perfusion and oxygenation of brain tissues during cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Data on the correlation of laboratory markers of cerebral injury and indicators of cerebral oximetry in children make it possible to create effective strategies of cerebral protection and prevention of postoperative cognitive dysfunction as part of a comprehensive intraoperative assessment of the patient's condition. The aim of the article was to analyze the effectiveness of the near-infrared spectroscopy in cerebral protection during surgical correction of congenital heart defects with CPB in children. The search for Russian and English publications (up to 10 years old) was performed using the following databases: Web of Science, PubMed, E-library. The keywords for the search were: “organ protection”, “congenital heart defects”, “children”, “cardiopulmonary bypass”, “near-infrared spectroscopy”. Publications that did not meet the specified criteria were excluded from the analysis. The findings substantiate the use of near-infrared spectroscopy to assess cerebral perfusion for the purpose of cerebral protection in children with congenital heart defects. The effectiveness of cerebral oximetry in various types of cardiac surgery with CPB in children has been shown. Near-infrared spectroscopy is a routine technique for assessing cerebral perfusion for the prevention of cerebral injury during cardiac surgery with CPB. The data presented in the review demonstrate the relationship between laboratory markers of cerebral injury and indicators of intraoperative cerebral oximetry using near-infrared spectroscopy in children during cardiac surgery with CPB. Further research is needed to explore the prospects of the described method of cerebral protection.
THE ROLE OF CYTOKINES IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF ORGAN DYSFUNCTION DURING OPEN HEART SURGERY
Authors: Kuzmichkina Maria A. , Kaveshnikov Vladimir S.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

The article presents an analysis of works on systemic inflammatory response that occurs during cardiac surgery, as well as research data on promising pharmacological strategies and the results of experimental research aimed at reducing the inflammatory response. Moreover, the authors proposed technological solutions to reduce the release of cytokines during cardiopulmonary bypass.

 

Abstract

The increase in the number of surgical revascularization procedures is one of the many reasons for the study of predictors of poor long-term prognosis after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Recently, the issues associated with systemic inflammatory response have become even more urgent since cytokines play an important role in critical conditions. The aim of this work was to analyze the available data on the role of cytokines in CABG. The article presents research data reflecting the importance of studying the changes in tumor necrosis α (TNFα) and interleukins (IL), and the analysis of data on the impact of the types of circulatory assist devices on changes in cytokine concentration. The authors evaluated the possible pharmacological strategies to reduce the systemic inflammatory response, and obtained data on the possibility of using methylprednisolone, colchicine, and pentoxifylline in cardiac surgery patients to reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Experimental studies on the use of adenosine and monoclonal anti-TNFα antibodies seem promising due to a decrease in myocardial and lung injury. Numerous studies in this area confirm the need to develop methods for effective reduction of the inflammatory response after surgical myocardial revascularization.
SUCCESSFUL CORRECTION OF TRANSPOSITION OF THE GREAT VESSELS USING EXTRACORPOREAL METHODS IN AN INFANT AGED 52 DAYS: CASE REPORT
Authors: Ivkin Artem A. , Balakhnin Dmitry G. , Mikhailova Alyona A.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

Cardiopulmonary bypass that is necessary for the surgical correction of congenital heart defects in children can induce systemic inflammation and lead to organ failure. Renal replacement therapy for acute renal injury after heart surgery in children is an effective method of kidney function substitution in the postoperative period comparable to peritoneal dialysis widely used in this category of patients. This case report presents a successful patient recovery after incorporation of this technique into the surgical treatment.

 

Abstract

The use of cardiopulmonary bypass during surgical correction of congenital heart defects in children can significantly damage the child's organism, which is widely reported in medical field. This negative impact is associated with morphofunctional immaturity of child's organs and caused by using extracorporeal circuits. The aim of this article is to demonstrate the use of renal replacement therapy for kidney injury in the postoperative period of correction of congenital heart disease in a child aged 52 days with transposition of the great vessels. The child's condition was stabilized as a result of surgical intervention and the use of renal replacement therapy to treat the complications of acute kidney injury. The patient was transferred to a specialized Cardiac Surgery Department, where they successfully finished rehabilitation.
MOLECULAR GENETIC RESPONSE OF ENDOTHELIAL CELLS TO DOXORUBICIN EXPOSURE: RESULTS OF IN VITRO AND IN VIVO STUDY
Authors: Sinitskaya Anna V. , Khutornaya Mariya V. , Hryachkova Oksana N. , Poddubnyak Alena O. , Asanov Maxim A. , Klueva Anastasia A. , Sinitsky Maxim Yu.
Published: February 2025

Highlights

Doxorubicin is an anthracycline–type antibiotic used to treat certain forms of cancer, the use of which is associated with the development of a number of complications in the cardiovascular system.

In vitro and in vivo experiments using primary endothelial cells of the coronary and internal thoracic arteries and normolipidemic Wistar rats have shown that exposure to doxorubicin leads to a change in the gene expression profile of endothelial cells, indicating a minor disruption of key links in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction.

 

Abstract

Aim. To assess the expression profile of endothelial dysfunction marker genes in endothelial cells exposed to doxorubicin in in vitro and in vivo experiments. 

Method. The study included commercial cultures of primary human coronary and internal thoracic artery endothelial cells exposed to 2 μg/mL doxorubicin for 24 hours, and normolipidemic Wistar rats, which were injected with 2 μg/kg of body weight doxorubicin into the tail vein for four weeks. Endothelial dysfunction was assessed by measuring the expression of VCAM1, ICAM1, SELE, SELP, IL6, CXCL8, CCL2, CXCL1, MIF, VWF, SERPINE1, PLAU, PLAT, KLF2, KLF4, NFE2L2, NOS3, SNAI1, SNAI2, TWIST1, ZEB1, CDH5 and CDH2 genes in endothelial cell lysate and in endothelial monolayer washed from rat descending aorta using quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results. 2 μg/mL doxorubicin exposure is associated with upregulation of IL6, CXCL8 and CCL2 genes in both HCAEC and HITAEC, and downregulation of PECAM, MIF and NOS3 genes in HCAEC. The mRNA level of transcription factors ZEB1, VE-cadherin (CDH5) and CXCL1 was lower compared to the control in both cell lines. The assessment of gene expression in the endothelial lysate of aorta explanted from Wistar rats showed increased expression of the Ccl2 gene and the decreased expression of the Klf2, Plau, Nos3, Cdh2, Serpine and Vwf genes in the experimental group compared to the control.

Conclusion. In vitro and in vivo experiments using primary coronary and internal mammary artery endothelial cells and normolipidemic Wistar rats showed that doxorubicin exposure leads to some changes in the gene expression profile of endothelial cells, indicating minor disruption of key links in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction.
Agronomic traits and oil content of sesame varieties in eastern Paraguay
Authors: Melgarejo Arrúa Milciades Ariel , Diaz Belén , Colman Patricia , Mendoza Marcos , Aguilera Sosa Américo , Amarilla Diosnel , Maidana Ever , Peralta Elida , Ayala Aguilera Lider , Da Silva Oviedo Modesto
Published: February 2025

In Paraguay, sesame holds an important social role in rural areas, as it is primarily cultivated by small-scale farmers. However, limited information is available on varieties with high yield potential. This study aimed to evaluate the agronomic traits and oil content of five varieties of Sesamum indicum L. Field trials were conducted in Saltos del Guairá and Ybyrarobana during the 2022/23 growing season. The experimental design was a randomized block design with five replications and five treatments corresponding to five sesame varieties (Inia, Negro, KO7, SH1, and Escoba) in each experiment. The evaluated characteristics were plant height, number of capsules, thousand-grain weight, grain yield, and oil percentage in grains. The Escoba variety had the highest plant height (174.50 cm), and the Inia and Negro varieties had the highest thousand-kernel weight values of 3.20 and 3.02 g, respectively. No significant differences were observed in the number of capsules, productivity, or oil content among the varieties.
The Direction and Future of Alzheimer’s Treatment
Authors: Zhao Weilun
Published: February 2025

Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic progressive neurodegenerative disease, the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease is still unclear, and individual etiological hypotheses cannot fully explain the emergence of a variety of complex pathological phenomena, the mainstream etiological hypotheses are three: central cholinergic system damage theory, Tua protein hyperphosphorylation and Aβ-amyloid hypothesis. The mainstay of treatment is now pharmacological. The mainstay of treatment is now pharmacological, and non-pharmacological therapies are gradually coming into the public eye. This research discusses the lack of optimism in drug development questions the mainstream theory, and argues that more emphasis should be placed on early prevention and intervention.
The Potential Relationship between GREM1 and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Chen Yi
Published: February 2025

GREM1 has been confirmed to be involved in the mechanisms of fibrosis, tumors, and cardiovascular diseases. This article aims to discuss the potential relationship between GREM1 and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), with mechanisms possibly related to BMP-Smad, MIF, VEGFR-2, and other signaling pathways that induce EMT, ECM protein deposition, inflammatory responses, protease/antiprotease imbalance, vascular remodeling, and more. GREM1 may be a potential therapeutic target for COPD.
Group Visit: A Challenge for Health System Responsiveness and Patient Rights
Authors: Ghoddoosinejad Javad , Zozani Morteza Arab-
Published: February 2025

The Article Abstract is not available.
The Role of Cytotoxic T-Cells in COVID-19: Potential Therapeutic Targeting
Authors: Hessami Amirhossein , Heydari Keyvan , Hosseini Aref , Asgari Negar
Published: February 2025

A novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have raised in Whuan in December 2019. This disease kept spread-ing rapidly until World Health Organization have declared a pandemic on COVID-19. Despite all the effortsmade there are no definite treatments for this disease. Recent papers on pathophysiology of COVID-19have shown possible mechanism of T-Cell exhaustion caused by virus is responsible for lymphopenia ob-served in these patients. PD-1/PD-L1 have a major role in T-Cell exhaustion so we have proposed targetingPD-1/PD-L1 using anti-PD-1/PD-L1 agent. Using anti-PD-1/PD-L1 agents including Pembrolizumab andNivolumab could potentially decrease T-Cell exhaustion and increases survival of COVID-19 patients. Inorder to overcome the shortcoming of this approach we have proposed using clustered regularly interspacedshort palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) which can be highly efficient intargeting PD-1/PD-L1. Using CRISPR/Cas9 in this regard could be more efficient, feasible and economicaland potentially lower side effects. In conclusion targeting PD-1/PD-L1 through approved medications orCRISPR/Cas9, in order to block their interactions, may remarkably prevent the cytotoxic lymphocytes func-tional exhaustion, especially CD8+ T-cells and help to decrease the mortality rate in COVID-19 patients.In addition, to evaluate the clinical outcome of using anti-PD-1/PD-L1 agents or CRISPR/Cas9 system inCOVID-19 patients, it is recommended to measure lymphocyte, CD8+ T-cells, NK cells and total T-cellscount.
Application of Animal Models to Study Infectious Diseases
Authors: Ramezani Faezeh , Sadeghmousavi Shaghayegh , Akbarzadehmoallemkolaei Milad
Published: February 2025

Infectious diseases, which are caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, can be contracted from other people, the environment, animal contact, or insect bites. Infectious diseases are becoming escalating concerns, mainly due to increasing antibiotic resistance. These disorders remain one of the primary causes of human mortality. Due to the lack of human data on new emerging diseases, ethical values, and the lethal risk of these pathogens, animal models are often recommended for experimental re- search on these diseases. According to the similarities between humans and animals in physiology, genetics, anatomy, availability, ease of handling, and production rate, scientists evaluate different medical problems in animal models before applying their findings to humans. According to the recent advent of the isolation of novel microorganisms, researchers must challenge the infectious ability of microorganisms in the biological system of animal models. An infectious disease animal model attempts to mimic the host-pathogen inter- action. Accordingly, a disease model is defined by both the host and pathogen combination. In this review article, we aimed to discuss various animal models established for studying different infectious diseases.
Toll-like Receptors in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kazemzadeh Kimia
Published: February 2025

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a multifaceted neurodevelopmental condition characterized by diversebehavioral and cognitive challenges. Despite its rising prevalence, the underlying mechanisms remain in-adequately understood. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), as critical components of the innate immune system, areimplicated in neuroinflammatory processes that may contribute to the pathogenesis of ASD. This narrativereview delves into the relationship between TLRs and ASD. Notably, studies reveal an upregulation of TLR4and TLR2 expression in B cells and placental tissues of individuals with ASD, correlating with increasedlevels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Maternal immune activation (MIA),particularly due to infections during pregnancy, has been shown to trigger TLR-mediated inflammatoryresponses that adversely affect fetal brain development. For instance, maternal cytomegalovirus (CMV)infection leads to heightened expression of TLR4/2 in the placenta, resulting in significant placental in-flammation and altered neurodevelopmental trajectories in offspring. Furthermore, evidence indicates thatindividuals with ASD exhibit impaired immune responses characterized by dysfunctional natural killer(NK) cells and monocytes, which produce excessive pro-inflammatory cytokines upon TLR4 stimulationbut show diminished responses to TLR9 ligands. This immune dysregulation is associated with a shift to-wards a TH2 cytokine profile, complicating the understanding of immune phenotype correlations with ASDsymptom severity. Additionally, TLR3 activation by viral RNA has been linked to behavioral changes inmurine models, underscoring the potential for maternal infections to influence neurodevelopment throughTLR signaling pathways. These findings illuminate the role of TLRs in ASD pathophysiology and suggestthat targeting TLR pathways may offer novel therapeutic avenues for intervention in this complex disorder.
Multiplex Genome Modifications of Astrocytes Through CRISPR Dead Cas9: A Novel Candidate Therapy for Chronic Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lotfi Melika
Published: February 2025

A stroke is an enervating injury to the brain that occurs from a stoppage in blood supply (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic) in a hemisphere of the brain. Globally, about 10 million deaths per year are recorded because of stroke. There has been no definitive FDA-approved treatment for chronic ischemic stroke without any side effects so far. Therefore, the search for new therapies is necessary. In this paper, after investigating several studies online, on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus, we hypothesized improving the complications of chronic ischemic stroke in induced Sprague-Dawley rat model by intraluminal suture middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo), utilizing the combination of cell therapy and gene therapy. A new version of astrocytes is proposed by making some changes in their genome. To gain this goal, a gene profile including IL-38 (the most modern anti-inflammatory agent, which barricades inflammatory re- sponse factors), BRAG-1 (an anti-apoptotic gene from BCL-2 family), IL-38 and BRAG-1’s complementary scaffold RNAs for their expression by deadCas9 (dCas9), complementary scaffold RNAs of LZK and MST-1 for their deletion, and deadCas9 gene is used. Based on studies and documents, we hypothesized using modified astrocytes by dCas9, which is the most accurate genome-editing technology
Producing Polycaprolactone and Basil Seed Gum Nanofibers Using an Electrospinning Process
Authors: Zamani N. , Farsad-Naeimi A. , Sharifi E. , Ghasemzadeh-Mohammadi V.
Published: February 2025

Background: Novel packaging materials often exhibit enhanced environmental sustainability, safety, and biodegradability compared to conventional plastics. This work aims to identify and improve key factors influencing the production of polycaprolactone (PLC)-Basil Seed Gum (BSG) nanofibers.
Methods: The optimization of electrospun nanofibers containing PLC and BSG was done using a Box-Behnken design. Four parameters were selected as independent variables: BSG concentration percentage (A), percentage of acetone in PLC solution (B), voltage (C), and distance from nozzle to collector (D). Two responses, namely the Relative Standard Deviation of nanofiber Diameter (RSDD) and Tensile Strength (TS), were chosen as dependent variables. Twenty-nine treatments were created using Design Expert software and Microsoft Excel (Design-Expert-Stat-Ease version 11 and Microsoft Excel 2012).
Results: it was found that variables A and D have the greatest effect on diameter distribution, while variables A and B have the most significant effect on TS. At a voltage of 15 kV, RSDD decreased as variable A increased from 10 to 25%. Subsequently, this trend increased from 25 to 40%. Increasing variable A from 10 to 25% at each distance (D) resulted in a decrease in RSDD, followed by an increase from 25 to 40%. TS rose as variable A declined from 40 to 25%, after which a decline was observed.
Conclusion: BSG both reduced the size and improved the texture of the nanofibers, as well as enhancing the performance of Oxygen Transmission Rate. Furthermore, BSG negatively affected the thermal stability of films in the Thermal Gravimetric Analysis-Differential Thermal Analysis. A detrimental impact on Water Vapor Permeability was observed when combining these two compounds. The mechanical qualities generally decreased with the addition of BSG.
Bilateral Traumatic Amputations in A Tertiary Health Centre In Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Balogun M. J. , Morhason-Bello J. O. , Oladiran A. B. , Omoyeni R. A. , Ogunrewo T. O. , Oyewole O. A. , Aremu O. A. , Okunola M. O.
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Bilateral amputation refers to the surgical removal of more than one limb, either both lower extremity or both upper extremities. Blood transfusion is often not predictable, however, a correlation between admission PCV and transfusion requirements may provide valuable insight for clinical decision-making in similar cases.
Methods: A retrospective review of patients who underwent bilateral amputations following traumatic injuries. The study examined demographic data, mechanisms of injury, clinical interventions, complications, and outcomes. Patient records were comprehensively reviewed for clinical parameters from admission through discharge.
Results: The study population comprised of six patients with an equal distribution across age groups (young adults, middle-aged, and elderly). Males constituted 66.7% of cases. Road traffic accidents were the predominant cause (50%), followed by electrical burns (33.3%) and flame burns (16.7%). Bilateral above knee amputation (BKA) was the most common procedure (66.7%). The survival rate was 83.3%, with one mortality. Complications included Surgical Site Infection and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in two cases. Hospital stays ranged from 14-21 days. Blood transfusion was necessary in 66.7% of cases and Pearson correlation coefficient (-0.722) was observed between admission Packed Cell Volume and blood transfusion requirements.
Conclusion: The study demonstrates that bilateral amputations predominantly affect males and resulted mainly from road traffic accidents. Despite the severity of injuries, favorable outcomes were achieved in most cases. The findings highlight the importance of early hematological intervention and comprehensive post-operative care. There was a strong negative correlation between admission PCV and blood transfusion requirements.
Lúdicas como estrategia de aprendizaje en la enseñanza de la producción y operaciones.
Authors: García Cáceres Rafael Guillermo , Alarcón Pérez Oscar Alberto , Amaya González Luis Felipe , Contreras Balaguera Sidhar Francisco , García Corredor Fredy Guillermo , Gómez Ángel Sandra Mimiya , Avellaneda Vargas Margarita
Published: February 2025

El presente texto emplea la simulación y el juego de roles en un entorno lúdico participativo, con el objetivo de lograr una comprensión más profunda y aplicar los conocimientos mediante la resolución de problemas de la vida real. Desde la década de los años 2000, las estrategias lúdicas de enseñanza han ganado importancia en la educación superior, aprovechando el auge de las tecnologías de la información y llevando la mecánica de juegos a contextos donde su aplicación podría haber sido considerada inapropiada en el pasado. Este libro responde a las demandas del estudiante universitario del siglo XXI, que busca fortalecer su autonomía, participación y desarrollo del pensamiento, alineándose con las nuevas normativas mundiales y nacionales que enfatizan el desarrollo de competencias y resultados de aprendizaje.Las lúdicas diseñadas se sustentan en proyectos previos, que revelan que el 49 % de las estrategias lúdicas diseñadas por las instituciones de educación superior se centran en temas de investigación y operaciones; por ello, estos estudios evidenciaron una brecha menos explorada en estrategias lúdicas basadas en las demás áreas propias de la producción y operaciones, a la cual este trabajo busca contribuir abarcando la gran mayoría de temáticas contenidas en los planes de estudios de Ingeniería Industrial, Administración Industrial, Administración y afines.
Machine learning prediction of small molecule passivators and their impacts on the passivation and photocatalytic performance of organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite interfaces
Authors: Cai Yan , Bai Zhentao , Chen Changcheng , Sun Minghong , Wang Zhengjun , Wang Songya , Zhang Ziyi , Xie Jiangzhou , Li Dongbo , Guan Xiaoning , Liu Gang , Lu Pengfei , Yun Sining
Published: February 2025

Organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite materials show great potential in photocatalysis and solar cells due to their excellent photoelectric properties, while interface defects affect their photocatalytic performance and stability. In this study, machine learning techniques were used to perform preliminary screening and prediction of high-performance passivation molecules (PMs), and density functional theory was used to investigate the effect of PMs on interfacial passivation performance. It was found that the presence of different chemical bonds between PMs and the interface can significantly change the interface properties. Therefore, the effect of PMs on the performance of interfacial photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction was explored. When PMs present N-Pb bonds at the interface, CO2 is reduced to CH3OH, while S-Pb bonds selectively generate CH2O from CO2, making perovskite selectively generate O-containing carbonyl compounds. The autocatalytic performance of organic compounds at the perovskite interface is poor and is not easy to occur. This study combines perovskite interface passivation and photocatalytic performance, providing a new approach for selective catalysis at perovskite interfaces.