bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘We’re going north’: Motion and Destination in Elizabeth Bowen’s To the North
Authors: Nada Farah
Published: November 2024

This paper examines Elizabeth Bowen’s textual development of the ‘north’ in her 1935 novel To the North. I begin by delineating the historical, cultural and literary perceptions of ‘northerness’ in Western imagination to highlight the meanings implicated in Bowen’s use of the north as a metaphor for movement. I demonstrate how ‘north’ for Bowen has personal, individual and domestic implications, considering its entanglement with the context of British and Irish socio-political relations in the early twentieth century. In this view, it remains crucial to consider the importance of these ideas for Bowen’s writing at large, even in novels divorced from the Irish and Anglo-Irish contexts. Finally, I address Bowen’s offer of the north as a constantly receding horizon by which the novel’s titular car-ride ‘to the north’ remains open-ended and undefined. Specifically, I read Cecilia’s and Emmeline’s journeys as examples of how Bowen’s characters negotiate between a condition of stillness and a state of perpetual motion by affirming Bowen’s mobilisation of narrative registers that depict an uncharted and deathly ‘north’ as a physical and figurative site towards which the entire novel must move.
Re-inventing the Mythic West: From Anthropocene Disorientation to Eco-Aesthetic Entanglements in Nicholas Royle’s Mother: A Memoir (2020)
Authors: Jonckheere Sarah
Published: November 2024

In his memoir about his mother entitled Mother: A Memoir (2020), Nicholas Royle notes that, for his family, the west is associated with securing better prospects. But heading west has nothing to do with emigration to the New World, it does not involve crossing any boundaries or oceans. It is instead about staying on familiar English soils and moving to the West Country. At the end of the memoir, Royle returns to this idiosyncratic yearning for the west, and, as this paper shows, he uses it as a point of departure that allows him to elaborate an Anthropocene poetics which unmoors any settled vision of subjectivity, spatiality, and temporality and which re-inscribes them into Anthropocene grounds. This paper argues that, in so doing, Royle rewrites the mythic west into a place of eco-aesthetic, multispecies entanglement.
Introduction of Environmental Materials and Relevant Technologies
Authors: Kobayashi Takaomi
Published: November 2024

This chapter describes the importance of building a sustainable society to develop materials related to low-carbon development and to put into practical use recycling technologies using waste materials as raw materials, since people life growth must be achieved while maintaining a balance between society, the economy, and the environment. For this purpose, economic growth is desired while balancing the construction of a recycling-oriented social structure with the conservation of nature. Specifically, the effective utilization of biomass as a carbon-neutral raw material and environmental remediation and conversion to raw materials are effective measures. Against this current background, this chapter also presents a discussion of the recent status of environmental materials and related technologies, especially upcycling technologies, toward building a sustainable society. Three subsections present the following: (1) Biomass waste reuse and biomass functional materials, (2) Green chemical refineries, and (3) Sustainable green technologies and processes using advanced materials.
Cellulose Nanofibrils Composite Films
Authors: Jiang Huixin , Snider Hannah , Zhao Xianhui , Pethe Saurabh Prakash , De Shuvodeep , Aytug Tolga , Ozcan Soydan , Nawaz Kashif , Li Kai
Published: November 2024

Nanocellulose derived from biomass is a sustainable, lightweight, and mechanically strong material. Extensive research has been directed towards applying nanocellulose for advanced applications. Nanocellulose-based films are novel and unique for designing functional materials considering their combination of sustainability with new properties. Nanocellulose films can be fabricated through simple strategies and make it easy to access various applications, such as barriers, sensors, energy storage, and so on. In this chapter, we summarized the preparation methods of nanocellulose-based films while focusing on nanocellulose as the film matrix and highlighting some representative applications. Given the sustainability of the nanocellulose and ease of introducing functional groups, we believe that nanocellulose-based films promise great potential for future advanced applications.
Production of Sustainable Bioplastics Through Biomass Wastes Valorization to Mitigate Carbon Footprint Emissions
Authors: Kobayashi Takaomi , Dominic Debbie , Abu Bakar Nurul Alia Syufina , Baidurah Siti
Published: November 2024

This chapter focuses on the production of bioplastics such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) via biomass wastes valorization. The high production costs of PHAs, particularly substrate of the base material, has limited its application. The utilization of biomass wastes from agro-industrial such as molasses, banana trunk juice, palm oil waste effluent, and animal derived chitin from crustacean as an alternative carbon feedstock is explored by many researchers, due to the abundancy, inexpensive, contains high sugar and oil contents. These industrial biomass wastes can be further exploited for lowering the production costs, simultaneously reduce biomass waste accumulation, and accelerate the application of the bioplastics at large scale. This chapter also covers the challenges of utilizing industrial waste as feedstocks for PHA production and its impact on carbon footprint mitigation. These initiatives are in parallel with various Sustainable Development Goals such as number 12, 13, 14, and 15.
Chitosan and Its Biomass Composites in Applications
Authors: Trang Truong Thi Cam , Nguyen Khoa Dang
Published: November 2024

Biomass-based materials have been received a lot of attractive attentions due to their renewablity and low-carbon emmsion during processings. Chitosan is a deactylated product from chitin, which is the second most found bio-polymer in nature. Moreover, with the transformation of science and technology as well as the demand of society, chitosan-based composites have been extensively studied to adopt the changes towards sustainable development. Therefore, this chapter summarizes the existing researches of chitosan-based composites in different fields including biomedical applications, degradable food-packaging material and envrionmental remediation.
An Investigation of Gender Biases in Teacher-Student Interaction in Mathematics Lessons Within a Virtual Teaching Simulator
Authors: Ataide Pinheiro Weverton , Kaur Bharaj Pavneet , Cross Francis Dionne , Kirkpatrick Darwin Taylor , Esquibel Jesus , Halder Shreyashi
Published: November 2024

There is a scarcity of research exploring gender biases in student-teacher interactions, especially within virtual simulations. This chapter addresses this research gap by delving into teacher-student interactions within the virtual teaching simulator (VTS). Simulations play a pivotal role in aiding pre-service teachers. Given the historical marginalization of girls/women in mathematics, the analysis focuses on uncovering gender biases in teacher-students interactions in virtual math lessons. The findings indicate relatively equitable participation of girls in VTS, albeit with occasional disparities; notably, the authors observed a lack of girls' engagement in high-cognitive-demand talk.
Cycles of Approximations of Practice Methodically Developing Mathematical Knowledge for Teaching
Authors: Hinojosa Denisse M. , Bonner Emily P.
Published: November 2024

This chapter reports on the cycles of approximations of practice embedded in a tutoring program (Community Mathematics Project) that pairs a community parent with a prospective elementary school teacher. Using the IDEAL framework and strategic increases in pedagogical autonomy through intentional scaffolding, the authors found that PTs' content knowledge, culturally responsive practice, ability to elicit multiple representations, and confidence in teaching increased. The expertise of the PT mentor mediated PT learning and supported autonomy in pedagogical decision making over time. The authors provide examples of these cycles and explore the ways in which they contributed to PT learning. They also briefly explore the role of parents as mathematics educators.
Editorial Insights
Authors: Howell Heather , Shaughnessy Meghan , Stengal Barbara , Lee Carrie Wilkerson , Bondurant Liza , Sapkota Bima , Benoit Gregory , Lai Yvonne
Published: November 2024

In this, the final chapter of Section 3, the authors document an interview that took place in June of 2024, as the editorial team wrapped up reviews of the chapters submitted to this volume. The interview was led by two of the advisory board members, Meghan Shaughnessy and Barbara Stengal, and included the editorial group, Heather Howell, Carrie Wilkerson Lee, Liza Bondurant, and Bima Sapkota, and other members of the advisory board, Greg Benoit and Yvonne Lai. The motivation to create this interview-based chapter was to capture some of the authors' own learning and reflection as they brought the volume together.
Integrating Scratch Jr. in Kindergarten to Foster Computational and Critical Thinking
Authors: Anastopoulou Georgia , Karabatzaki Zoi
Published: November 2024

The chapter synthesizes constructivist learning theories from John Dewey and Lev Vygotsky with practical applications in early childhood education. Natural sciences serve as a base for investigative learning, fostering preschool children's curiosity and introducing them to scientific thinking. Incorporating ICT in education transforms learning through simulations and digital games, promoting collaboration and critical thinking. Tools like Scratch Jr enable young children to engage in visual programming, enhancing their technological fluency. The chapter highlights the importance of using age-appropriate digital media and educational software to support cognitive development. The integration of playful activities, both physical and digital, facilitates problem-solving, self-expression, and imaginative growth, making learning engaging and effective.
Kinetic Studies on MB Adsorption by Graphene like Material from Coconut Shell Charcoal
Authors: Affandi Dewi Asaningsih , Najati Baiq L. , Syakir Norman , Joni I Made , Fitrilawati Fitrilawati
Published: November 2024

Coconut shell (CS) activated carbon is widely used for water purification, but its adsorption capacity is inferior compare to graphene oxide (GO). GO has oxygen functional groups so it can effectively bind pollutants like methylene blue (MB). In this study we synthesized graphene-like material from CS charcoal using the modified Hummers method by varying its oxidation times. The XRD decomposition results for H-CS3.2 show a structural composition similar to GO material. The diffraction peak at 10.7° (3.04%) falls within GO's characteristic range of 8°-11°, supported by a Raman ID/IG ratio of 0.95. In contrast, H-CS3.1 material does not exhibit GO's structural composition, with a diffraction peak at 13.9° (1.09%). An increasing of oxidation time, enhanced adsorption capacity in the equilibrium state of H-CS3.2 (22.368 mg/g) surpassing H-CS3.1 (17.079 mg/g). The heightened adsorption was linked to an increased O/C ratio or higher % of atomic oxygen (0.04 for H-CS3.1 and 0.17 for H-CS3.2). The pseudo second-order Ho (PSO) adsorption kinetic model demonstrated the adsorption mechanism, with active sites (oxygen functional groups) such as carbonyl (C = O) and epoxy (C – O) at basal plane carbon. Steric hindrance caused by hydroxyl functional groups (C – OH) led to a reduction in π-π interactions and decreased adsorption ability of the H-CS3.1 material. Desorption of H-CS3.1 material was influenced by MB detachment through interface diffusion.
Identification and mapping of objects targeted for surveillance and their role as risk factors for brucellosis in livestock farms in Kazakhstan
Authors: Mukhanbetkaliyeva Aizada A. , Kadyrov Ablaikhan S. , Mukhanbetkaliyev Yersyn Y. , Adilbekov Zhanat S. , Zhanabayev Assylbek A. , Abenova Assem Z. , Korennoy Fedor I. , Abdrakhmanov Sarsenbay K.
Published: November 2024

Objects for Targeted Surveillance (OTS) are infrastructure entities that can be considered as focal points and conduits for transmitting infectious animal diseases, necessitating ongoing epidemiological surveillance. These entities encompass slaughterhouses, meat processing plants, animal markets, burial sites, veterinary laboratories, etc. Currently, in Kazakhstan, a funded research project is underway to establish a Geographic Information System (GIS) database of OTSs and investigate their role in the emergence and dissemination of infectious livestock diseases. This initial investigation examined the correlation between brucellosis outbreaks in cattle and small ruminant farms in the southeastern region of Kazakhstan and the presence of OTSs categorized as “slaughterhouses,” “cattle markets,” and “meat processing plants. The study area (namely Qyzylorda, Turkestan, Zhambyl, Almaty, Zhetysu, Abay and East Kazakhstan oblasts), characterized by the highest livestock density in the country, covers 335 slaughterhouses (with varying levels of biosecurity), 45 livestock markets and 15 meat processing plants. Between 2020 and 2023, 338 cases of brucellosis were reported from livestock farms in this region. The findings of the regression model reveal a statistically significant (p<0.05) positive association between the incidence of brucellosis cases and the number of OTSs in the region. Conversely, meat processing plants and livestock markets did not exhibit a significant influence on the prevalence of brucellosis cases. These results corroborate the hypothesis of an elevated risk of brucellosis transmission in regions with slaughterhouses, likely attributable to increased animal movements within and across regions, interactions with vehicles and contact with slaughterhouse staff. These outcomes mark a pivotal advancement in the national agricultural development agenda. The research will be extended to encompass the entire country, compiling a comprehensive OTS database.
Dietary habits among primary school learners in the Tshwane West District of Gauteng, South Africa
Authors: Phetla Morentho C. , Skaal Linda , Chelule Kiprano P.
Published: November 2024

Background: Poor dietary habits are major contributors to malnutrition globally, particularly in children living in African countries. The widespread transition from African diet of healthy indigenous foods to a nutrient-poor Western-style diet is well-documented in global societal culture.Aim: This study aimed to assess the dietary habits and their nutritional implications among learners in public primary schools.Setting: City of Tshwane, located in the Gauteng province of South Africa.Methods: This was a quantitative cross-sectional study where researcher-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 814 primary school learners in grades 4–7. Anthropometric data were also collected. The study was conducted in 10 primary schools in the City of Tshwane.Results: Unhealthy dietary practices were observed where consumption of refined carbohydrates, sugar-filled beverages and limited protein was prevalent. The prevalence rates for overweight and obesity were 15.1% and 11.3%, respectively. Most learners (77.4%) purchased foods from street vendors and tuckshops. Also, learners who knew about healthy eating were less likely to be underweight than those who did not (OR: 0.35; 95% CI: 0.14–0.85; p = 0.020).Conclusion: Poor dietary habits are demonstrated in this study and may be associated with the rising levels of overweight and obesity among the learners. The findings also showed that the school environment is the main source of exposure to unhealthy diet.Contribution: Intervention strategies, such as amendment of the national school nutrition policy, need to be implemented.
The integrated reflective feedback tool: Experiential learning in resource limited settings
Authors: Visser Liesl , Beckett Nazlie
Published: November 2024

Combining key elements from the learning tools of reflection, feedback and debriefing into a single reflective event is a novel concept. This powerful combination amalgamates into a tool useful in experiential learning. Linking the three concepts in a way that combines self-reflection in a debriefing framework, powered by trusted peer feedback resulted in a new teaching tool. It was piloted within the clinical setting of the primary health care (PHC) clinics in the Saldanha Bay sub-district in South Africa among final (6th) year undergraduate medical students of the University of Cape Town. This sub-district is a peri-urban community and encompasses a district health care system with less resources in both human and infrastructure than in an urban area. Being intentional and analytical as to optimal use of every resource not only impacts the students but also alleviates the pressure on clinician supervisors of activities. Pairing students alleviates the pressure of the insufficient number of consultation rooms for solo consultations and the pressure on the single supervising clinician when the consultations are conducted simultaneously. Using this tool at the end of the session facilitates the reflection and experiential learning of both the students individually. Self-reports indicated this tool kept both students engaged throughout all consultations and facilitated peer learning Alternating between being the doctor and the observer and knowing what roles entailed, the students never felt victimised in the reflection and feedback on their performance. And individually they developed their self-reflection and providing feedback as life skills.
The contributions of Enactus to South Africa’s Social and Solidarity Economy: A case study of a University
Authors: Ndlovu Crespen , Lefera Maraka
Published: November 2024

Background: Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable rise in worldwide acknowledgement of the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) and its substantial socioeconomic and environmental benefits. In response, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a resolution on 18 April 2023 advocating for government and institutional support to the SSE towards accelerating the achievement of sustainable development Goals (SDGs). However, there is a lack of understanding of how higher education institutions contribute to this agenda.Aim: The study examines the contributions of Entrepreneurial Action Us (Enactus) to South Africa’s SSE.Setting: The case study was conducted at the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State in South Africa, to examine how higher education and the SSE interact through Enactus initiatives.Methods: The study utilised a qualitative research design involving semi-structured interviews with 11 students and alumni and an analysis of Enactus’ annual impact reports. This allowed for a comprehensive understanding of participants’ experiences and perceptions regarding Enactus’ impact on the SSE.Results: Enactus enhances student entrepreneurship and innovation, promoting economic growth, job creation and community sustainability. Initiatives like the student-led Vermi Village Enterprise have empowered youth and women and created employment opportunities. Collaboration with local corporations and educational institutions has fostered sustainable changes, improving regenerative agriculture and urban food production, thus addressing multiple poverty facets.Conclusion: This study highlights the crucial role of initiatives like Enactus in promoting a more inclusive and sustainable economy, advancing the broader objectives of the SDGs, and supporting a brighter future for South Africa.Contribution: Despite resource limitations and the need for greater stakeholder engagement, Enactus projects and enterprises hold significant potential for driving sustainable development and socioeconomic equality, ultimately strengthening South Africa’s SSE.
Empowering South African educators: Navigating the challenges of digital teaching and learning competencies
Authors: Nyathi Trinity , Joseph Renjini M.
Published: November 2024

Orientation: Public basic education institutions in South Africa are presently enduring new challenges about the implementation of digital teaching and learning in the absence of the digital competence required.Research purpose: The purpose of the current study was to identify the digital competencies required by educators to effectively implement digital teaching and learning interventions in basic education institutions.Motivation for the study: By identifying the digital competencies required by educators and exploring the gap in educators’ digital competence, institutions can plan and implement digital learning interventions designed for effective teaching and learning.Research approach/design and method: Semi structured interviews were conducted with a sample of 20 participants working in various positions at two secondary schools in Gauteng.Main findings: The findings showed that while some training is offered, educators lack the necessary competencies to effectively enforce digital learning interventions. This may be because of limited training, the absence of digital resources and the insufficient digital competence of educators.Practical/managerial implications: Ongoing training is mandatory to ensure that the digital competence of educators is in line with the dynamic world of work and to close the digital skills gap in teaching. Secondary school educators require assistance from the Department of Basic Education to enable the transition from traditional teaching and learning to digital praxis, through the provision of necessary digital intervention resources.Contribution/value-add: The findings make a practical contribution by offering organisations practical information on the development of digital competencies in secondary education settings.
Macrophages in age-related macular degeneration: a narrative review
Authors: Khademi Sara , Yu Zhuonan , Zhou Tian , Song Bing , Xu Zhen
Published: November 2024

Aging is the major cause of age-related macular degeneration, but its mechanism of action is still unclear. Research has indicated that aging, macrophages and age-related macular degeneration are closely correlated. Owing to the heterogeneity of ocular macrophages and their diverse/plastic phenotypes, recognition of the role of macrophages in age-related macular degeneration is relatively rare, which hinders the development of precision treatments for age-related macular degeneration. In this narrative review, we discuss the classification of retinal macrophages and their diverse polarization states in age-related macular degeneration. To better understand the causal relationship between senescent macrophages and age-related macular degeneration, a novel model for manipulating the macrophage senile state in age-related macular degeneration was proposed. By transplanting senescent macrophages into an age-related macular degeneration model, we can test the ability of senescent macrophages to increase the age-related macular degeneration phenotype; moreover, by replacing senescent macrophages in an age-related macular degeneration model with young macrophages, we can test the necessity of senescent macrophages to cause an age-related macular degeneration phenotype and validate the effectiveness of transplantation of therapeutic macrophages as a treatment for advanced age-related macular degeneration based on the modulation of the inflammatory environment. This proposal is expected to solve the controversy regarding the role of macrophages in age-related macular degeneration and inspire future research on macrophage therapy for senescent diseases.
A Rare Aberrant Division of Radial Nerve Encountered During Fixation of Distal 1/3rd Shaft Humerus Fracture
Authors: Gupta Gagandeep , Kala Shivang , Sagar  , Saini Akhilesh
Published: November 2024

The radial nerve is a continuation of the posterior cord, which is composed of axons from C5 to C8. Rarely are abnormalities in the posterior cord’s branching pattern mentioned in the literature. An unusual change encountered in the radial nerve is described in this case report, during fixation of distal 1/3rd shaft humerus fracture left side in a 22-year-old male, where the radial nerve is seen as two distinct bundles, anterior and posterior. The posterior division provided aberrant branches to the long head of the triceps muscle, medially, while the anterior division persisted as the main radial nerve. To expose the humerus shaft for fixations, an orthopedic surgeon must be aware of the radial nerve divisions.
Sarvatantra Swatantra Kaikulangara Rama Varier - An illustrious polymath who enriched the Ayurveda literature
Authors: Karthika Asokan Prabha , Indu Puthan Purayi , Saniya Chettiyam Kandy
Published: November 2024

Kaikulangara Rama Varier (1832–1897) was one of the greatest Sanskrit scholars, Kerala had ever seen. He had a profound knowledge of Sanskrit, Ayurveda, Astrology, Vedanta, Yogabhyasa, Tarka, Vyakarana, and Music. With his extraordinary writing skills, even the toughest Sanskrit slokas were translated into Malayalam and made reader-friendly. His keen interest in popularizing Sanskrit language paved the way for translational works of Ayurveda. In the present study, the life profile of Kaikulangara Rama Varier is documented with the data collected through direct interviews with relatives, historians, and other published works. In Ayurveda, the literary works of Kaikulangara Rama Varier, which are commendable are Arogyaraksha-Kalpadruma, Bhavaprakasha and Sararthadarpana vyakhyana of Ashtanga Hridaya, Vaidya granthamala, and Vaidyamrita tarangini. The areas of panchakarma and management of eye disorders from his Ashtanga Hridaya commentaries were compiled and published separately as Panchakarma chikitsa and Netra chikitsa. Arogyaraksha-Kalpadruma expounds on various areas of pediatric practice right from birth, including the prevention and management of age-specific illness with many unique drug formulations that are successfully in practice even now. His recommendations on pediatric practices remain unparalleled and have made him more famous in Ayurveda. Over time, much of his works of literature got decayed. It is the need of the hour to preserve and explore these invaluable works, especially those related to Ayurveda, to sustain the knowledge and essence of this traditional science.
Prof. Dinkar Govind Thatte - An exceptional educator and a renowned researcher in Ayurvedic Anatomy
Authors: Prasad Anjali B. , Kumar Shobhit
Published: November 2024

Professor (Dr.) Dinkar Govind Thatte’s life is characterized by meticulous devotion and is an exceptional and indispensable symbol in the field of Rachana and Kriya Sharira (Ayurvedic anatomy and physiology). In addition to his contributions to Sharira, he is famously remembered for his unwavering commitment to advocating and enhancing Ayurveda. He chose to continue with the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (BMBS) despite the prevailing trends, rejecting the merger with contemporary medicine. Dedicated and hardworking, he achieved different heights in his academic career and carved a memorable path through a life of sacrifice, devotion, innovation, and scholarly excellence. His approach to teaching, particularly cadaveric dissection through demonstration, revolutionized pedagogy in Ayurvedic education, a paradigm shift in the understanding of the human body within the context of Ayurveda. Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Thatte’s philanthropic spirit led him to establish the All-India Sharira Research Institute (AISRI). Through this institute, he promoted education, research, and deserving students. This article aims to honor his memory and legacy that inspires scientists, scholars, and practitioners, across the country. His family members, colleagues, and close students were interviewed to learn about his principles, workstyle, and achievements. This biography delves into the multidimensional persona of Dr. Thatte’s rise from student to becoming a forerunner in Ayurveda, primarily in Sharira, recording his pioneering discoveries and paradigm-shifting contributions in the arena of Ayurveda.
The legacy of Kaviraj Gananath Sen: Bridging traditions in Ayurveda
Authors: Bhushan Shakti , Saha Suparna , Gajji Babu
Published: November 2024

Kaviraj Gananath Sen (1877–1945) was a distinguished scholar and physician who significantly refurbished Ayurveda knowledge and practice. He integrated traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern medical knowledge, becoming a licensed physician at the age of 20 years. He was instrumental in establishing the Ayurvedic Faculty at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, and founded the Vishwanath Ayurved Mahavidyalaya in Calcutta, now Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Despite resistance, he authored influential texts like Pratyaksa Sareeram and Siddantha Nidana, merging ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern anatomy. Globally, his paper on “Hindu Medicine” disseminated Ayurvedic principles. He served as the President of the annual conferences of the Akhila Bharata Varshiya Ayurveda Mahasammelan, held in Allahabad in 1911, Indore in 1920, and Mysore in 1931. Additionally, he was the President of the Nikhila Bharata Ayurveda Vidyapeeth for many years. In 1935, he also presided over the “Tridosha Sambhasha Parishad” at BHU. His enduring legacy continues to shape contemporary Ayurvedic practice and education.
H2 protects H9c2 cells from hypoxia/reoxygenation injury by inhibiting the Wnt/CX3CR1 signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Jingsheng , Ma Bin , Jiang Xue , Li Chao , Lin Zhaochen , Wang Yumei , Shi Jingfei , Wang Gang , Cui Chao
Published: November 2024

Myocardial ischemia‒reperfusion injury is a severe cardiovascular disease, and its treatment and prevention are crucial for improving patient prognosis and reducing the economic burden. This study aimed to explore the impact of hydrogen (H2) on hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury in H9c2 cells (derived from rat embryonic heart tissue) induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and to elucidate its underlying mechanism. An H/R injury model was established in H9c2 cells via exposure to 15 μM H2O2 for 3 hours, followed by incubation in a 5% CO2 atmosphere at 37°C for 24 hours. Then, the cells were treated with H2 (50%) for 6, 12 or 24 hours. The results demonstrated that H9c2 cells exposed to H2O2 and subjected to H/R injury presented a marked decrease in the cell survival rate, accompanied by severe morphological alterations, such as curling and wrinkling, and elevated lactate dehydrogenase levels. Notably, H2 mitigated H/R injury induced by H2O2 in a time-dependent manner, improving the morphological damage observed in H9c2 cells and decreasing lactate dehydrogenase levels. Compared with the model group, treatment with H2 increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, while concurrently reducing the level of malondialdehyde, an indicator of cellular damage. Furthermore, H2 treatment downregulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory-related factors, specifically interleukin-6, high-mobility group box 1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and Toll-like receptor 4, in H9c2 cells post-H/R injury. Furthermore, H2 treatment resulted in a marked decrease in the expression levels of proteins associated with the Wnt/C-X3-C-motif receptor 1 signaling pathway, such as β-catenin, glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta, adenomatous polyposis coli, and Wnt and C-X3-C-motif receptor 1. This observation suggests a potential mechanism for its protective effects against H/R injury. Therefore, H2 exerts a protective effect against H/R injury in H9c2 cells induced by H2O2, potentially by inhibiting the activated Wnt/C-X3-C-motif receptor 1 signaling pathway. This inhibition, in turn, prevents the generation of oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, and inflammation-associated factors.
Evaluation of the potential efficacy of the nitric oxide donor molsidomine for the treatment of schizophrenia
Authors: Pitsikas Nikolaos
Published: November 2024

Schizophrenia is a chronic devastating psychiatric disease characterized by a high recurrence rate. Pharmacological management of this disorder appears disappointing since it is associated with a lack of efficacy for negative symptoms and cognitive deficits, typical features of schizophrenia, and the presence of severe undesired side effects. Thus, novel molecules with high efficacy and low toxicity for the treatment of schizophrenia are urgently needed. The involvement of the gaseous molecule nitric oxide in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia is well documented since low concentrations of nitric oxide are associated with this psychiatric disease. Therefore, chemicals able to normalize nitric oxide levels, such as nitric oxide donors, might be useful for the management of this type of schizophrenia. Molsidomine is a nitric oxide donor and is under investigation as a novel antischizophrenia agent. The aim of this review is to critically evaluate the potential efficacy of this molecule for the treatment of schizophrenia.
Divergent Histology in Bladder Cancer: What We Need to Know?
Authors: Agrawal Shashank , Menon Arun Ramdas , Pooleri Ginil Kumar
Published: November 2024

The 2022 WHO classification of urinary tract tumors identifies several less common subtypes of invasive urothelial carcinoma, all of which are classified as high-grade. Reporting the percentage of divergent differentiation or specific subtypes is recommended whenever feasible. The role of neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy in these histologies is still uncertain, as prospective data are limited. This chapter emphasizes the histologic traits of divergent differentiation and bladder cancer subtypes outlined in the latest WHO classification, along with updates on their clinical characteristics.
Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection in Bladder Cancer: Have We Agreed on the Extent?
Authors: Singh Anshuman , Sharma Gopal , Gautam Gagan
Published: November 2024

Radical cystectomy (RC) combined with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is the gold standard for treating muscle invasive bladder cancer; however, the optimal extent of PLND, whether limited (lPLND), standard (sPLND), extended (ePLND), or super-extended (sePLND), remains controversial. This review assesses the existing literature, including randomized controlled trials, retrospective studies, and meta-analyses, to evaluate the impact of different PLND extents on oncological and survival outcomes in patients undergoing RC. For patients with advanced disease (cT3 or higher), ePLND provides significant diagnostic and therapeutic benefits by improving staging accuracy and potentially eradicating micrometastatic disease, which may translate into better survival outcomes. The advantages of ePLND often outweigh the associated surgical risks in such cases. Conversely, for patients with less advanced disease (≤pT2) or those with significant comorbidities, the incremental benefits of extensive dissection are limited, and a more conservative approach, such as lPLND or sPLND, is recommended to minimize surgical morbidity when still achieving effective oncologic control. Current evidence suggests that a well-performed sPLND is generally sufficient for accurate staging and prognostication, whereas sePLND does not offer additional survival benefits and increases the risk of complications.
Rising Breast Cancer Rates in Younger Women: Could Dietary Advanced Glycation End Products Be the Missing Link?
Authors: Panguluri Gowtami A. , Findlay Victoria J.
Published: November 2024

The incidence of breast cancer is increasing among young women, who are at higher risk of aggressive cancer-related deaths. Lifestyle factors, especially diet, are known to be changeable risk factors that can affect cancer development. This review focuses on the published literature connecting dietary advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and the risk of breast cancer, particularly in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) population. To support our analysis, we collected and synthesized data from sources such as PubMed, the SEER database, the American Association of Food and Nutrition Guidelines, and the World Health Organization publications within the last 15 years. AGEs are mainly found in ultra-processed foods, as well as in foods high in fat and sugar, which are common in the Western diet. AGEs are also created through nonenzymatic glycoxidation during food cooking at high temperatures. AGEs have been linked to cancer progression through the receptor for AGE, which can activate inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways that support tumor formation. Epidemiological studies and preclinical models have indicated that a high dietary intake of AGEs is correlated with an elevated risk of developing breast cancer and poorer survival outcomes for women. While the connection between AGEs and breast cancer risk is evident, there is a lack of research focusing on the AYA population. This highlights the necessity for further investigation to fully comprehend the impact of dietary AGE consumption during formative years on the rising incidence of breast cancer in the AYA population. We want to highlight the significance of cancer prevention methods. This includes initiatives to decrease the intake of dietary AGEs during puberty, when simultaneously raising awareness and providing education on the significance of adopting healthy dietary practices and engaging in regular physical activity. These measures could be effective in reducing the risk of breast cancer among young women worldwide.
Evaluating Clinical Efficacy of Thermalytix as a Breast Cancer Screening Tool in Young Women
Authors: Kakileti Siva Teja , Sampangi Sudhakar , Ramprakash H. V. , Manjunath Geetha
Published: November 2024

Objective:

Breast cancer remains a significant health challenge worldwide, particularly among women under 45 years of age who often present with dense breast tissue. Mammography, the current gold standard for breast cancer screening, is less effective in this demographic due to reduced sensitivity in detecting malignancies within dense breast tissue. This study evaluates the efficacy of Thermalytix, an artificial intelligence-driven, noninvasive, and radiation-free thermal imaging tool, as a screening modality for breast cancer in young women through a meta-analysis of published studies.

Materials and Methods:

This meta-analysis aggregated the data from three clinical studies involving a total of 1187 women who first underwent a Thermalytix test followed by reference standard of care (SoC) tests, which included one or more mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy. Among these women, 463 were under 45 years of age and were eligible for this study. Thermalytix analyzed high-resolution thermal images of the breast, utilizing novel radiomic features such as hotspots, vascular patterns, and areolar characteristics to predict malignancy. The performance of Thermalytix was evaluated by computing its sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV), with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), in both the overall population and the younger cohort by aggregating the data from all studies.

Results:

Among the 463 young women under 45 years, 43 were diagnosed with breast cancer as per SoC. When raw data were aggregated from this young women cohort, Thermalytix resulted in a sensitivity of 90.7% (95% CI: 82.0%–99.4%), a specificity of 82.1% (95% CI: 78.5%–85.8%), a PPV of 34.2% (95% CI: 25.5%–42.9%), and an NPV of 98.9% (95% CI: 97.7%–100%). The pooled sensitivity and specificity of Thermalytix using the random-effects model were estimated to be 96.0% (95% CI: 88.9%–100%) and 82.3% (95% CI: 78.6%–85.9%), respectively. Further, in the entire population of 1187, Thermalytix showed an aggregated sensitivity of 88.3% (95% CI: 83.3%–93.2%), specificity of 84.7% (95% CI: 82.5%–86.9%), PPV of 47.7% (95% CI: 42.0%–53.3%), and NPV 97.9% (95% CI: 96.9%–98.8%).

Conclusions:

Thermalytix demonstrated high sensitivity and NPV in women under 45 years of age, suggesting its potential as an effective screening modality for younger women who face challenges with conventional screening methods due to dense breast tissue.
Unique Peripheral Immune Profile in Young Women with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Abreu Catarina , Corredeira Patricia , Cavaco Ana , Szeneszi Lisiana Wachholz , Barradas Ana , Luis Henrique , Antunes Marilia , Alves Patricia , Ribeiro Leonor , Pinto Conceição , Quintela Antonio , Torres Sofia , Sousa Rita , Mansinho André , Luna-Pais Helena , Pacheco Teresa , Semedo Patricia , Casimiro Sandra , Serre Karine , Ribot Julie , Silva-Santos Bruno , Costa Luis
Published: November 2024

Background:

The occurrence of breast cancer in young women (BCYW), i.e., under 40 years old (<40 years), is increasing, and tumors in this group often exhibit different biology and prognosis compared to those in older counterparts.

Aim and Study Design:

This study aimed to access the peripheral immune cell populations in metastatic BCYW at diagnosis and compare them with older (≥40) metastatic breast cancer (BC) patients. Blood samples were collected when the metastatic disease was diagnosed and before treatment began.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 90 patients were included, with a median age of 52.5 years at baseline (27–88 years). Among them, 17 patients were under 40 years old, and 73 were 40 years old or older. We isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells using Histopaque-1077 Hybri-Max to access immune cells by flow cytometry. For comparisons between two groups, the Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon test was used, and Dunn’s test was used for comparisons between more than two groups.

Results:

The presence of metastatic BCYW was characterized by a lower proportion of regulatory T-cells (Treg) and central memory (CM) CD8+ T-cells, as well as a higher proportion of total effector T-cells (Teff). In young patients with widespread metastasis (plurimetastatic), there was a higher proportion of Teff cells, Vδ2+ T-cells, and effector Vδ1+ T-cells, with fewer Treg cells. Conversely, older plurimetastatic patients had more Treg cells and fewer effector T-cells. Furthermore, young oligometastatic patients had a lower proportion of CM CD8+ T-cells.

Conclusions:

BCYW presents a distinct immunologic profile with higher effector cell activity and lower levels of regulatory and memory cells, regardless of metastatic burden and menopausal status. This finding suggests that targeting immune pathways may offer new therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes for young women with BC, potentially leading to more personalized and effective treatments.
Distribution of the number of prime factors with a given multiplicity
Authors: Elma Ertan , Martin Greg
Published: November 2024

Given an integer
$k\ge 2$
, let
$\omega _k(n)$
denote the number of primes that divide n with multiplicity exactly k. We compute the density
$e_{k,m}$
of those integers n for which
$\omega _k(n)=m$
for every integer
$m\ge 0$
. We also show that the generating function
$\sum _{m=0}^\infty e_{k,m}z^m$
is an entire function that can be written in the form
$\prod _{p} \bigl (1+{(p-1)(z-1)}/{p^{k+1}} \bigr )$
; from this representation we show how to both numerically calculate the
$e_{k,m}$
to high precision and provide an asymptotic upper bound for the
$e_{k,m}$
. We further show how to generalize these results to all additive functions of the form
$\sum _{j=2}^\infty a_j \omega _j(n)$
; when
$a_j=j-1$
this recovers a classical result of Rényi on the distribution of
$\Omega (n)-\omega (n)$
.
Farmers’ perspectives on pesticide usage in vegetable production in selected agricultural zones in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Humphrey O.F. , Osuala F.I. , Igwo-Ezikpe M.N.
Published: November 2024

Pesticide usage is an essential part of modern farming and its indiscriminate use poses a significant health risk to humans and the environment. This study aimed to investigate the perspectives of vegetable farmers on pesticide usage, attitude in handling, storage, use of personal protective equipment, and health symptoms they experienced. This investigation was conducted in some selected areas of the three agricultural zones of Lagos State (Far Eastern, Eastern and Western zones) using structured questionnaire. A total of 350 farmers provided adequate information needed for this study. Descriptive statistics was used for data analysis. Most of the farmers have some level of formal education (85.4 %) while 14.29 % have no education. The majority (96.86%) of farmers agreed to the use of various pesticides ranging from chemical to botanical. Most of the respondents stored their pesticides in their tool shed while 14 % stored their pesticides in their homes of residence. The  respondents adopted unsafe practices such as littering their farm sites (11.14%), and burning of empty containers on-farm (14.29 %), while 3.43% reused empty pesticide containers. The majority of the farmers used personal protective equipment (81.70 %), though not appropriately. As a result, 13.14 % of the farmers experienced more than one health symptoms after pesticide application. Despite the level of the respondents’ formal education, 38.57 % were not trained. To limit the risk associated with the use of pesticides, it is important that adequate and comprehensive training on safe farm practices be given to farmers by the government.
Chemical composition of processed fresh and dried garden egg (Solanum macrocarpon L.) and unripe pawpaw (Carica papaya L.) fruits chips
Authors: Gbeyonron F.M. , Ortswen J.F.
Published: November 2024

The study examined the chemical composition of fresh and dried garden eggs (Solanum macrocarpon L.) and unripe pawpaw chips (Carica papaya L.). Unripe processed caricapapaya and garden eggs fruits chips in some Nigerian communities especially Benue State are utilised as ingredients in soups, however it’s unclear how nutritious the variably processed versions are. This study’s main focus was to determine the nutritional quality of traditionally processed unripe C. papaya and garden egg fruit chips.The fruits were processed and sundried for 72 h. Proximate and micronutrient compositions were determined using standard procedures. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Duncan’s new multiple range test at 5% probability was used to separate and compare means and was accepted at (p ≤ 0.05). Proximate composition for fresh uncooked pawpaw fruits had higher carbohydrate 20.55± 0.01 mg, crude fibre 2.68±0.01 mg, protein 1.65±0.01 mg, ash 1.45±0.01 mg and fat 1.10±0.01 mg except for moisture relative to those of garden egg fruits moisture 90.54±0.01 mg, carbohydrate 3.92±0.01 mg, fibre 2.55±0.01 mg, protein 1.52±0.01 mg, ash 1.36±0.01 mg and fat 0.11±0.01 mg%, respectively. Dehydration increased nutrient values for garden egg fruits relative to pawpaw fruits. Vitamin profiles for fresh and sun-dried pawpaw and garden egg fruits had differences. Dehydration decreased β-carotene, thiamin and vitamin C values for pawpaw. It increased thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and pyridoxine values for garden egg fruits. Both fruits were rich in nutrients; traditional processing may not adversely affect their proximate composition. Since these fruits are typically processed with soup thickness before eating, the evident loss of vitamins and minerals should be mitigated by adding extra high-quality sources.