bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melanoxetin: A Hydroxylated Flavonoid Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Modulates Insulin Resistance and Glycation Pathways in an Animal Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Rocha Sónia , Amaro Andreia , Ferreira-Junior Marcos D. , Proença Carina , Silva Artur M. S. , Costa Vera M. , Oliveira Sara , Fonseca Diogo A. , Silva Sónia , Corvo Maria Luísa , Freitas Marisa , Matafome Paulo , Fernandes Eduarda
Published: February 2024

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) continues to escalate, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches that target distinct pathways and address DM complications. Flavonoids have been shown to possess several pharmacological activities that are important for DM. This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo effects of the flavonoid melanoxetin using Goto-Kakizaki rats. Over a period of 14 days, melanoxetin was administered subcutaneously to investigate its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. The results show that melanoxetin reduced insulin resistance in adipose tissue by targeting protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B. Additionally, melanoxetin counteracted oxidative stress by reducing nitrotyrosine levels and modulating superoxide dismutase 1 and hemeoxygenase in adipose tissue and decreasing methylglyoxal-derived hydroimidazolone (MG-H1), a key advanced glycation end product (AGE) implicated in DM-related complications. Moreover, the glyoxalase 1 expression decreased in both the liver and the heart, correlating with reduced AGE levels, particularly MG-H1 in the heart. Melanoxetin also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by reducing serum prostaglandin E2 levels, and increasing the antioxidant status of the aorta wall through enhanced acetylcholine-dependent relaxation in the presence of ascorbic acid. These findings provide valuable insights into melanoxetin’s therapeutic potential in targeting multiple pathways involved in type 2 DM, particularly in mitigating oxidative stress and glycation.
Virtue Ethics and the Ecological Self: From Environmental to Ecological Virtues
Authors: Hess Gérald
Published: February 2024

This article examines how a non-anthropocentric virtue ethics can truly avoid an anthropocentric bias in the ethical evaluation of a situation where the environment is at stake. It argues that a non-anthropocentric virtue ethics capable of avoiding the pitfall of an anthropocentric bias can only conceive of the ultimate good—from which virtues are defined—in reference to an ecological self. Such a self implies that the natural environment is not simply a condition for human flourishing, or something that complements it by adding the proper good of animals, organisms or ecosystems. Fulfilment is not that of a human self, but that of an ecological self: the natural environment or nature is not an external but an internal good. Therefore, the virtues or character traits that such an ecological self must nurture and develop leads us ultimately to distinguish—without opposing them—three different forms of virtue ethics applied to the environment, depending on whether it is anthropocentric or non-anthropocentric and whether nature is considered extrinsically or intrinsically. Such distinctions are also crucial to determine how we conceive of the political community and the collective goals that virtuous citizens assign to it (for instance, to preserve biodiversity, to tackle climate change, and so on).
Torsional Disorder in Tetraphenyl [3]-Cumulenes: Insight into Excited State Quenching
Authors: Bain David , Chang Julia , Lai Yihuan , Khazanov Thomas , Milner Phillip J. , Musser Andrew J.
Published: February 2024

Cumulenes are linear molecules consisting of consecutive double bonds linking chains of sp-hybridized carbon atoms. They have primarily been of interest for potential use as molecular wires or in other nanoscale electronic devices, but more recently, other applications such as catalysis or even light harvesting through singlet fission have been speculated. Despite the recent theoretical and experimental interest, the photoexcitation of cumulenes typically results in quenching on the picosecond timescale, and the exact quenching mechanism for even the simplest of [3]-cumulenes lacks a clear explanation. In this report, we perform transient absorption spectroscopy on a set of model [3]-cumulene derivatives in a wide range of environmental conditions to demonstrate that the planarization of phenyl groups ultimately quenches the excited state. By restricting this intramolecular motion, we increase the excited state lifetime by a few nanoseconds, strongly enhancing photoluminescence and demonstrating an approach to stabilize them for photochemical applications.
Advances in Small Angle Neutron Scattering on Polysaccharide Materials
Authors: Fanova Anastasiia , Sotiropoulos Konstantinos , Radulescu Aurel , Papagiannopoulos Aristeidis
Published: February 2024

Polysaccharide materials and biomaterials gain the focus of intense research owing to their great versatility in chemical structures and modification possibilities, as well as their biocompatibility, degradability, and sustainability features. This review focuses on the recent advances in the application of SANS on polysaccharide systems covering a broad range of materials such as nanoparticulate assemblies, hydrogels, nanocomposites, and plant-originating nanostructured systems. It motivates the use of SANS in its full potential by demonstrating the features of contrast variation and contrast matching methods and by reporting the methodologies for data analysis and interpretation. As these soft matter systems may be organized in multiple length scales depending on the interactions and chemical bonds between their components, SANS offers exceptional and unique opportunities for advanced characterization and optimization of new nanostructured polysaccharide materials.
Saccharomyces pastorianus Residual Biomass Immobilized in a Polymer Matrix as a Biosorbent for Reactive Dye Removal: Investigations in a Dynamic System
Authors: Suteu Daniela , Blaga Alexandra Cristina , Rusu Lacramioara , Tanasa Alexandra Maria
Published: February 2024

The use of residual microbial biomass from various industries in emerging pollutant removal strategies represents a new area of research in the field. In this case, we examined how to remove reactive dyes from an aqueous solution utilizing a biosorbent made of residual biomass from immobilized Saccharomyces pastorianus (S. pastorianus) in a polymer matrix using a dynamic system. Fluidized bed column biosorption investigations were carried out on a laboratory scale. Brilliant Red HE-3B was chosen as the target molecule. The main parameters considered for this purpose were the flow rate (4.0 mL/min; 6.1 mL/min), initial pollutant concentration (51.2 mg/L; 77.84 mg/L), and biosorbent mass (16 g; 20 g). The experimental data of the fluidized bed study were evaluated by mathematical modeling. The Yoon–Nelson, Bohart–Adams, Clark, and Yan models were investigated for an appropriate correlation with the experimental data. An acceptable fit was obtained for a flow rate of 4 mL/min, an initial pollutant concentration of 51.2 mg/L, and a biosorbent amount of 20 g. The obtained results indicate that the biosorbent can be used efficiently in a dynamic system both for the removal of the studied dye and in extended operations with a continuous flow of wastewater. As a conclusion, the investigated biocomposite material can be considered a viable biosorbent for testing in the removal of reactive dyes from aqueous environments and creates the necessary conditions for the extension of studies toward the application of these types of biosorbents in the treatment of industrial effluents loaded with organic dyes.
Walking Forward Together—The Next Step: Indigenous Youth Mental Health and the Climate Crisis
Authors: Brown Michael , Mirza Sabina , Lu Jay , Stewart Suzanne L.
Published: February 2024

The climate crisis has resulted in mental health challenges for varying demographic groups of all ages, but Indigenous youth are one of the most vulnerable populations impacted by the climate crisis. Conversations regarding Indigenous youth and the climate crisis are often held without their presence or input, identifying a gap in research and the literature. The findings from this review include the components of climate change regarding the mental health of Indigenous youth as being direct and indirect pathways of impact and resistance. Direct pathways include the more immediate and physical consequences of climate change associated with mental unwellness. Indirect pathways include less obvious consequences to those without lived experience, such as disruptions to culture and magnified social inequities, which also result in negative mental health consequences. The resistance component explores how Indigenous youth have been protesting and actively speaking out, which highlights the importance of the inclusion of Indigenous youth voices in decision-making spaces related to mental health service resources (i.e., funding) and policy in climate action. This review ends with a discussion on ways forward, the limitations herein, and how the uniqueness of the research may contribute to climate justice.
Quantitative Modeling of Financial Contagion: Unraveling Market Dynamics and Bubble Detection Mechanisms
Authors: Nica Ionuț , Ionescu Ștefan , Delcea Camelia , Chiriță Nora
Published: February 2024

This study explored the complex interplay and potential risk of financial contagion across major financial indices, focusing on the Bucharest Exchange Trading Investment Funds Index (BET-FI), along with global indices like the S&P 500, Nasdaq Composite (IXIC), and Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA). Our analysis covered an extensive period from 2012 to 2023, with a particular emphasis on Romania’s financial market. We employed Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) modeling to examine the interrelations among these indices, treating the BET-FI index as our primary variable. Our research also integrated Exponential Curve Fitting (EXCF) and Generalized Supremum Augmented Dickey–Fuller (GSADF) models to identify and scrutinize potential price bubbles in these indices. We analyzed moments of high volatility and deviations from typical market trends, influenced by diverse factors like government policies, presidential elections, tech sector performance, the COVID-19 pandemic, and geopolitical tensions, specifically the Russia–Ukraine conflict. The ARDL model revealed a stable long-term relationship among the variables, indicating their interconnectedness. Our study also highlights the significance of short-term market shifts leading to long-term equilibrium, as shown in the Error Correction Model (ECM). This suggests the existence of contagion effects, where small, short-term incidents can trigger long-term, domino-like impacts on the financial markets. Furthermore, our variance decomposition examined the evolving contributions of different factors over time, shedding light on their changing interactions and impact. The Cholesky factors demonstrated the interdependence between indices, essential for understanding financial contagion effects. Our research thus uncovered the nuanced dynamics of financial contagion, offering insights into market variations, the effectiveness of our models, and strategies for detecting financial bubbles. This study contributes valuable knowledge to the academic field and offers practical insights for investors in turbulent financial environments.
Comparing Remote and Proximal Sensing of Agrometeorological Parameters across Different Agricultural Regions in Croatia: A Case Study Using ERA5-Land, Agri4Cast, and In Situ Stations during the Period 2019–2021
Authors: Kreković Dora , Galić Vlatko , Tržec Krunoslav , Podnar Žarko Ivana , Kušek Mario
Published: February 2024

The paper evaluates the usability of remote satellite-based and proximal ground-based agrometeorological data sources for precision agriculture and crop production in Croatia. The compared agrometeorological datasets stem from the open-access data sources Copernicus CDS and the Agri4Cast portal, and commercial in situ agrometeorological stations (PinovaMeteo) which monitor environmental parameters relevant to the physiological state of crops. The study compares relevant parameters for 10 different locations in Croatia for three consecutive years (2019, 2020, and 2021) to investigate whether model-based data from ERA5-Land and Agri4Cast are well-correlated with ground measurements from independent in situ stations (PinovaMeteo) for specific agrometeorological parameters (air and soil temperature, and precipitation). Our results indicate the following: both the ERA5-Land and Agri4Cast datasets show mostly strong positive correlations with ground observations for air temperature, modest correlations for soil temperature, but modest or even low correlations for precipitation. Analysis of the residuals indicates higher overall residual values, especially in areas with complex topography and near large bodies of water or the sea, and deviations of residuals that may limit the usability of satellite- and model-based data for decision-making in agriculture.
Chlorophyll-a Detection Algorithms at Different Depths Using In Situ, Meteorological, and Remote Sensing Data in a Chilean Lake
Authors: Rodríguez-López Lien , Alvarez Denisse , Bustos Usta David , Duran-Llacer Iongel , Bravo Alvarez Lisandra , Fagel Nathalie , Bourrel Luc , Frappart Frederic , Urrutia Roberto
Published: February 2024

In this study, we employ in situ, meteorological, and remote sensing data to estimate chlorophyll-a concentration at different depths in a South American freshwater ecosystem, focusing specifically on a lake in southern Chile known as Lake Maihue. For our analysis, we explored four different scenarios using three deep learning and traditional statistical models. These scenarios involved using field data (Scenario 1), meteorological variables (Scenario 2), and satellite data (Scenarios 3.1 and 3.2) to predict chlorophyll-a levels in Lake Maihue at three different depths (0, 15, and 30 m). Our choice of models included SARIMAX, DGLM, and LSTM, all of which showed promising statistical performance in predicting chlorophyll-a concentrations in this lake. Validation metrics for these models indicated their effectiveness in predicting chlorophyll levels, which serve as valuable indicators of the presence of algae in the water body. The coefficient of determination values ranged from 0.30 to 0.98, with the DGLM model showing the most favorable statistics in all scenarios tested. It is worth noting that the LSTM model yielded comparatively lower metrics, mainly due to the limitations of the available training data. The models employed, which use traditional statistical and machine learning models and meteorological and remote sensing data, have great potential for application in lakes in Chile and the rest of the world with similar characteristics. In addition, these results constitute a fundamental resource for decision-makers involved in the protection and conservation of water resource quality.
A Node Selection Strategy in Space-Air-Ground Information Networks: A Double Deep Q-Network Based on the Federated Learning Training Method
Authors: Wang Weidong , Li Siqi , Zhang Jihao , Shan Dan , Zhang Guangwei , Gao Xiang
Published: February 2024

The Space-Air-Ground Information Network (SAGIN) provides extensive coverage, enabling global connectivity across a diverse array of sensors, devices, and objects. These devices generate large amounts of data that require advanced analytics and decision making using artificial intelligence techniques. However, traditional deep learning approaches encounter drawbacks, primarily, the requirement to transmit substantial volumes of raw data to central servers, which raises concerns about user privacy breaches during transmission. Federated learning (FL) has emerged as a viable solution to these challenges, addressing both data volume and privacy issues effectively. Nonetheless, the deployment of FL faces its own set of obstacles, notably the excessive delay and energy consumption caused by the vast number of devices and fluctuating channel conditions. In this paper, by considering the heterogeneity of devices and the instability of the network state, the delay and energy consumption models of each round of federated training are established. Subsequently, we introduce a strategic node selection approach aimed at minimizing training costs. Building upon this, we propose an innovative, empirically driven Double Deep Q Network (DDQN)-based algorithm called low-cost node selection in federated learning (LCNSFL). The LCNSFL algorithm can assist edge servers in selecting the optimal set of devices to participate in federated training before the start of each round, based on the collected system state information. This paper culminates with a simulation-based comparison, showcasing the superior performance of LCNSFL against existing algorithms, thus underscoring its efficacy in practical applications.
Dr. Christopher G. Wood (22 November 1963 to 3 November 2021)
Authors: Spiess Philippe E. , Delacroix Scott , Chapin Brian F. , Margulis Vitaly , Abel Edwin Jason , Karam Jose A.
Published: February 2024

Dr [...]
Effect of Environmental Courts on Pollution Abatement: A Spatial Difference-in-Differences Analysis
Authors: Deng Jingjing , Li Mingxian , Li Yi , Lu Jun
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the impact of environmental courts on pollution abatement at the city level, utilizing the establishment of environmental courts in China as a quasi-experiment. A spatial difference-in-differences model is employed to control for the influence of environmental courts on neighbouring non-pilot cities. The results underscore the effectiveness of environmental courts in reducing industrial pollutant emissions, evident in both the pilot areas and adjacent non-pilot areas. The influence of environmental courts on pollution abatement is more pronounced in cities characterized by stronger environmental regulations, higher level of economic agglomeration, and higher level of openness. Mechanism analysis shows that environmental courts promote environmental supervision by governments, public participation in environmental protection, and expenditure on environmental governance by firms. In summary, this paper unveils the tangible effects of environmental courts on pollution abatement and elucidates the mechanisms underpinning this relationship. These findings provide timely implications for regulators concerned with environmental protection.
Green Human Resource Management as a Catalyst for Sustainable Performance: Unveiling the Role of Green Innovations
Authors: Zihan Wang , Makhbul Zafir Khan Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Green human resource management (GHRM) has emerged as an essential strategy for achieving environmental sustainability within organizations. However, there remains a significant gap in understanding its direct impact on sustainable performance. This study seeks to address these gaps by investigating the relationship between GHRM and sustainable performance, with a focus on the mediating role of green innovation and the moderating influence of transformational leadership. A cross-sectional study was conducted among Malaysian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to explore the interrelationships between green HRM, green process and product innovation, sustainability, and the role of sustainable leadership. The study’s findings reveal a positive and significant relationship between green HRM practices and sustainability, encompassing environmental, economic, and social aspects. The findings suggest that management support for environmental initiatives is a critical factor in enhancing the effectiveness and spread of green innovations, emphasizing the importance of GHM in the broader context of organizational change and sustainability. In addition, the study underscores the critical role of transformative leadership in fostering sustainable practices, particularly the significant moderator role of responsible leadership in driving sustainable business practices. In summary, this study provides a roadmap for businesses, particularly SMEs, to leverage HGRM as a strategic tool in their pursuit of sustainability.
Exploring the Influence of Personality Traits, Self-Efficacy, and Creativity on Employability for Hospitality and Tourism College Students
Authors: Tsai Chia-Fang , Chang Cheng-Ping , Chen Tsai-Lun , Hsu Ming-Lung
Published: February 2024

With the widespread establishment of universities and technical colleges in Taiwan, having a university degree is no longer a privilege of the few. However, it has also led to the emergence of many socially inexperienced people with higher education degrees who need more workplace competitiveness. Therefore, students’ employability is a topic worth exploring. Equally, the number of students in hospitality-related departments is still very high in the current conditions, while the employment situation in the tourism and hospitality industry is relatively challenging and unstable, making students’ employability even more critical. This study examines the relationship between self-efficacy, creativity, employability, and personality traits in the hospitality and tourism industry. Descriptive statistics and factor analysis confirm the previous research findings. In addition, testing of the scale reliability and validity is needed. A structural equation modeling (SEM) approach and mediation analysis are adopted to test the research hypotheses and explore gender differences. The study aims to understand how individual characteristics contribute to career success and identify any unique challenges or advantages based on gender. The research results show that personality traits can affect and influence employability in terms of self-efficacy. Furthermore, personality traits can affect self-efficacy, and self-efficacy can enhance creativity and improve employability.
High Spatiotemporal Remote Sensing Images Reveal Spatial Heterogeneity Details of Soil Organic Matter
Authors: Ma Qianli , Luo Chong , Meng Xiangtian , Ruan Weimin , Zang Deqiang , Liu Huanjun
Published: February 2024

Soil is the foundation of sustainable agricultural development. Soil organic matter (SOM) is a key indicator for characterizing soil degradation, and remote sensing has been applied in SOM prediction. However, the differences in SOM prediction from different remote sensing data and the ability to combine multi-source and multi-phase remote sensing data for SOM prediction urgently need to be explored. The following research employed Landsat-8, Sentinel-2, and Gaofen-6 satellite data, utilizing a random forest algorithm to establish a SOM prediction model. It aimed to explore the variations in SOM prediction capabilities among these satellites in typical black soil regions. Additionally, the study involved creating multi-phase synthetic images for SOM prediction using Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2 images captured during three years of bare soil periods. Finally, the research examined the ability to combine three satellites to construct high spatiotemporal remote sensing images for SOM prediction. The results showed that (1) using Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2 to extract the principal components of the three-year bare soil period to construct the multi-phase synthetic image for SOM prediction, higher prediction accuracies can be obtained compared with the single-phase images. (2) The highest accuracy can be obtained using multi-phase synthetic images and high spatial resolution images to construct high spatiotemporal remote sensing images and perform SOM prediction (R2 is 0.65, RMSE is 0.67%, MAE is 0.42%). (3) Simultaneously, high spatiotemporal remote sensing images can reach 2 m spatial resolution to reveal the spatial heterogeneity of SOM. The causes of SOM spatial anomalies can be determined after analysis combined with soil degradation information. In subsequent research, SOM prediction should focus more on multi-sensor collaborative prediction.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Women’s Empowerment Studies Post Sustainable Development Goal Adoption Periods (2015–2022)
Authors: Adeleye Oluwakemi Rachael , Olivo Maria Lourdes Ordoñez , Farkas Tibor
Published: February 2024

Women’s empowerment has been identified as one of the key tools to ensure the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and an effective means to long-term economic growth and success. Given its importance, this article presents a bibliometric analysis of publications that focus on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which aims to ‘achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’. In developing this research, Web of Science databases were used to search for relevant articles, and a final sample of 1095 publications was extracted for this purpose. The findings of this study indicate that studies on women’s empowerment within the Sustainable Development Goals are gaining importance in both the developed and developing countries of the world. The results further revealed that there has been significant growth in scientific production on this topic, with the first quantum leap and highest production occurring in 2017 and 2021, respectively. Based on the co-occurrence of keywords, important terms such as autonomy, power, education, and employment were found to be relevant to this topic. In conclusion, this study provides an insight into the reality of scientific production on women’s empowerment topics following the adoption of the SDGs, with recommendations for its future development and support for policymakers in initiating relevant policies for women’s empowerment.
Geometric Properties of Normalized Galué Type Struve Function
Authors: Sarkar Samanway , Das Sourav , Mondal Saiful R.
Published: February 2024

The field of geometric function theory has thoroughly investigated starlike functions concerning symmetric points. The main objective of this work is to derive certain geometric properties, such as the starlikeness of order δ, convexity of order δ, k-starlikeness, k-uniform convexity, lemniscate starlikeness and convexity, exponential starlikeness and convexity, and pre-starlikeness for the Galué type Struve function (GTSF). Furthermore, the conditions for GTSF belonging to the Hardy space are also derived. The results obtained in this work generalize several results available in the literature.
Pangenome-Scale Mathematical Modelling of ANAMMOX Bacteria Metabolism
Authors: Bielski Roman G. , Islam M. Ahsanul
Published: February 2024

Removal of fixed nitrogen compounds such as ammonium and nitrite from wastewater is of critical importance for balancing the nitrogen cycle and protecting aquatic environments from eutrophication. ANaerobic AMMonium OXidising (ANAMMOX) bacteria have recently been employed for fixed nitrogen removal purposes in wastewater treatment processes. These specialised bacteria convert ammonium and nitrite into nitrogen gas anaerobically, thereby reducing the amount of energy required for aeration in conventional wastewater treatment processes. However, slow growth rates of ANAMMOX remain a major obstacle towards their widespread use in industrial wastewater treatment processes. Thus, a pangenome-scale, constraint-based metabolic model, iRB399, of ANAMMOX bacteria has been developed to design strategies for accelerating their growth. The main metabolic limitation was identified in the energy metabolism of these bacteria, concerning the production of ATP. The extremely low efficiency of the electron transport chain combined with very high growth-associated maintenance energy is likely to be responsible for the slow growth of ANAMMOX. However, different ANAMMOX species were found to conserve energy using a variety of different redox couples, and the modelling simulations revealed their comparative advantages under different growth conditions. iRB399 also identified dispensable catabolic reactions that have demonstrably beneficial effects on enhancing the growth rates of ANAMMOX bacteria. Thus, the pangenome-scale model will not only help identify and overcome metabolic limitations of ANNAMOX bacteria, but also provide a valuable resource for designing efficient ANNAMOX-based wastewater treatment processes.
Induction of Oxidative Stress by Waterborne Copper and Arsenic in Larvae of European Seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.): A Comparison with Their Effects as Nanoparticles
Authors: Torronteras Rafael , Díaz-de-Alba Margarita , Granado-Castro María Dolores , Espada-Bellido Estrella , Córdoba García Francisco , Canalejo Antonio , Galindo-Riaño María Dolores
Published: February 2024

The aim of this work was to compare the potential induction of oxidative stress and the antioxidant enzymatic response after a short-term waterborne exposure to copper (Cu) and arsenic (As) with that of the nanoparticles (NPs) of these elements (Cu-NPs and As-NPs) in fish larvae of the species Dicentrarchus labrax. Larvae were grouped in several tanks and exposed to different concentrations of contaminants (0 to 10 mg/L) for 24 or 96 h under laboratory conditions. Copper and arsenic concentrations were analysed in larval tissues using ICP-MS. A set of oxidative stress biomarkers, including the levels of hydroperoxides (HPs), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were assessed. The trace element concentrations (mg/kg d.w.) in larvae ranged as follows: 3.28–6.67 (Cu at 24 h) and 2.76–3.42 (Cu at 96 h); 3.03–8.31 (Cu-NPs at 24 h) and 2.50–4.86 (Cu-NPs at 96 h); 1.92–3.45 (As at 24 h) and 2.22–4.71 (As at 96 h); and 2.19–8.56 (As-NPs at 24 h) and 1.75–9.90 (As-NPs at 96 h). In Cu tests, the oxidative damage (ROOH levels) was induced from 0.1 mg/L at both exposure times, while for Cu-NPs, this damage was not observed until 1 mg/L, which was paralleled by concomitant increases in SOD activity. The CAT activity was also increased but at lower metal concentrations (0.01 mg/L and 0.1 mg/L for both chemical forms). No oxidative damage was observed for As or As-NPs after 24 h, but it was observed for As after 96 h of treatment with 0.01 mg/L. A decrease in SOD activity was observed for As after 24 h, but it turned out to be increased after 96 h. However, As-NPs did not alter SOD activity. The CAT activity was stimulated only at 96 h by As and at 24 h by As-NPs. Therefore, the two chemical forms of Cu exhibited a higher bioaccumulation and toxicity potential as compared to those of As. Importantly, the association of both Cu and As in NPs reduced the respective trace metal bioaccumulation, resulting also in a reduction in the toxic effects (mortality and biochemical). Furthermore, the assessment of oxidative stress-related biomarkers in seabass larvae appears to be a useful tool for biomonitoring environmental-occurring trace elements.
Toxic Effects of Different Coating-Related Functionalized Nanoparticles on Aquatic Organisms
Authors: Hernández-Moreno David , Fernández-Díaz Marta , Rucandio Isabel , Navas José , Fernández-Cruz María
Published: February 2024

The peculiar physico-chemical characteristics of nanomaterials (NMs) and the use of different coatings to improve their expected properties result in a huge amount of nanoforms, which vary in chemical composition, size, shape and surface characteristics. This makes it almost impossible to test all the nanoforms available, and efforts have been made to establish grouping or read-across strategies. The aim of this work was to find a behavior pattern of effect among nanoforms of different metallic core nanoparticles (NPs) (TiO2, CeO2 and Ag NP) with the same coatings (sodium citrate, poly (ethylene glycol), dodecylphosphonic acid or oleylamine). Daphnia magna, rainbow trout and two fish cell lines (PLHC-1 and RTH-149) were exposed to a range of concentrations (up to 100 mg/L) of the uncoated or coated NPs. Ag NPs were the most toxic, followed by CeO2 NPs and finally by TiO2 NPs. The results show that a clear pattern of toxicity in the studied species could not be established related to the coatings. However, it was possible to confirm different inter-species sensitivities. RTH-149 was the most sensitive cell line, and Daphnia magna was more sensitive than fish. Moreover, some differences in coating-core interactions were found between the metal oxide and the metal NPs in Daphnia magna.
Phylogenetics, Epidemiology and Temporal Patterns of Dengue Virus in Araraquara, São Paulo State
Authors: de Souza Caio Santos , Caleiro Giovana Santos , Claro Ingra Morales , de Jesus Jaqueline Goes , Coletti Thaís Moura , da Silva Camila Alves Maia , Costa Ângela Aparecida , Inenami Marta , Ribeiro Andreia C. , Felix Alvina Clara , de Paula Anderson Vicente , Figueiredo Walter M. , de Albuquerque Luna Expedito José , Sabino Ester C. , Romano Camila M.
Published: February 2024

Dengue virus (DENV) is a prominent arbovirus with global spread, causing approximately 390 million infections each year. In Brazil, yearly epidemics follow a well-documented pattern of serotype replacement every three to four years on average. Araraquara, located in the state of São Paulo, has faced significant impacts from DENV epidemics since the emergence of DENV-1 in 2010. The municipality then transitioned from low to moderate endemicity in less than 10 years. Yet, there remains an insufficient understanding of virus circulation dynamics, particularly concerning DENV-1, in the region, as well as the genetic characteristics of the virus. To address this, we sequenced 37 complete or partial DENV-1 genomes sampled from 2015 to 2022 in Araraquara. Then, using also Brazilian and worldwide DENV-1 sequences we reconstructed the evolutionary history of DENV-1 in Araraquara and estimated the time to the most recent common ancestor (tMRCA) for serotype 1, for genotype V and its main lineages. Within the last ten years, there have been at least three introductions of genotype V in Araraquara, distributed in two main lineages (L Ia and L Ib, and L II). The tMRCA for the first sampled lineage (2015/2016 epidemics) was approximately 15 years ago (in 2008). Crucially, our analysis challenges existing assumptions regarding the emergence time of the DENV-1 genotypes, suggesting that genotype V might have diverged more recently than previously described. The presence of the two lineages of genotype V in the municipality might have contributed to the extended persistence of DENV-1 in the region.
Evaluation of the Blood Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker in Dogs with Portosystemic Shunt
Authors: Becher Anja , Acke Els , Serrano Gonçalo , Kiefer Ingmar , Alef Michaele , von Bomhard Wolf , Heilmann Romy M.
Published: February 2024

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) can help in assessing inflammatory diseases, sepsis, and chronic hepatic conditions in humans. Dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts (PSSs) have signs of generalized inflammation, and the clinical signs can overlap with other conditions, including hypoadrenocorticism (HOC). Thus, the potential diagnostic and prognostic value of leukocyte ratios as surrogate markers was assessed in a retrospective case–control study including 106 dogs diagnosed with PSSs. The disease control groups were dogs with parenchymal hepatopathy (PH; n = 22) or HOC (n = 31). In the PSS dogs, the blood NLRs were associated with the severity of systemic inflammation but not with the shunt type, hepatoencephalopathy, systemic infection, or hypoglycemia. The baseline NLRs did not differ between the three disease groups, between medically and surgically treated PSS dogs, or between those with successful PSS ligation and dogs experiencing peri-/post-surgical complications. However, dogs requiring two consecutive surgical interventions had significantly higher NLRs, and an NLR of <2.53 distinguished dogs with successful shunt ligation in one surgery from those requiring two consecutive surgeries for PSS closure. The blood NLR might be a useful clinicopathologic variable in PSS, but its value in helping differentiate PSS from HOC cases appears low. Integrating the NLR into a diagnostic algorithm may allow for a prediction of the number of surgical interventions required.
Characterization of Low-Volume Meat Processing Wastewater and Impact of Facility Factors
Authors: Rouland Gregory , Safferman Steven I. , Schweihofer Jeannine P. , Garmyn Andrea J.
Published: February 2024

Low-volume meat processing facilities often rely on decentralized wastewater treatment due to cost constraints and the lack of access to centralized treatment. Improved characterization of these facilities’ wastewater is crucial for meeting local groundwater discharge permits. This study also directly correlates treatment systems and facility characteristics to the results of the characterization. The total nitrogen (TN), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and phosphorus (P) reductions ranged from −15% to 83%, 43% to 95%, and −75% to 62%, respectively. Slaughtering and smoking were found to significantly increase nutrient concentrations. The average TN leaving the slaughterhouses and processing-only facilities was 519 mg/L-N and 154 mg/L-N, respectively. The average BOD produced by the slaughterhouses and processors was 3002 mg/L and 1660 mg/L, respectively. Filtration was found to reduce BOD, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and trace metals. Aeration in a treatment lagoon was found to significantly reduce BOD, COD, and N compounds. The results indicate that even simple decentralized wastewater treatment systems, combined with facility management practices, can substantially reduce permitted wastewater characteristics. The facility with the best BOD removal had an effluent value of 71.3 mg/L, representing a 96% reduction. The facility with the best TN removal had an effluent value of 20 mg/L, representing a 92% reduction prior to discharge.
Exonyms as parts of the cultural heritage
Authors: Jordan Peter
Published: February 2024

The article departs from the assumption that exonyms in the sense of place names not used by the local community and differing from the respective endonym are parts of the cultural heritage and deserve for this very reason to be protected, documented, and kept in use. Why they are parts of the cultural heritage is explained by four arguments: because they are elements of a language, and language is without any doubt part of the cultural heritage; because they reflect the pattern of a community’s network of external political, cultural and economic relations; because they relate a community with its history; because they are in the user community often reflected and repeated by street names, names of dishes, pieces of music or theatre plays etc., where they actually assume the status of endonyms and form the nucleus of a name system. Since appreciating place names as a part of the cultural heritage is a rather recent current in the context of international and national place-name standardization, resolutions of the United Nations as well as national regulations have so far not adequately reacted to it – a fact that is also highlighted.
The ethnonymy and linguonymy of Belarusians and Ukrainians in the formation of their identity
Authors: Rudenka Alena
Published: February 2024

The article deals with the formation of the ethnonymy and linguonymy of Belarusians and Ukrainians. Since a diachronic approach is adopted, the necessary historical-geographical and linguistic context is given. The research is based on two ideas: 1) a stable ethnonym testifies to the strong ethno-identity of the people, and changes in the ethnonymy indicate changes in ethnic self-consciousness; 2) The name of the language spoken by the ethnos, as well as the ethnonym, is very significant for ethnic identity, and a stable linguonym and its formation is more important for the mentality of the people than intralinguistic changes. By the beginning of the 20th century, both Belarusians and Ukrainians had a stable triad “ethnotoponym – ethnonym – linguonym”, which means they have seen themselves as independent peoples for over a century. Similarities and differences in the formation of Belarusian and Ukrainian ethnonymy and linguonymy will also be noted in this article.
Proper names of research instruments: An exploratory study
Authors: Seide Márcia Sipavicius
Published: February 2024

This exploratory study describes 55 proper names of research instruments in the fields of Medicine, Physical Education, Clinical Studies, and Education. These names were collected from the titles and abstracts of scientific articles published on the DOAJ platform between 2011 and 2022. They were qualitatively analysed according to their morphology, syntax, semantic and pragmatic features, which led to a tentative description of their essential characteristics. The article evidences that there is a basic pattern consisting of a complex noun phrase that describes the type of instrument created. The extent of the names ranges from one to twelve words. Whereas most names are followed by an acronym, others may also include a number, an eponym, an ethnonym, or a toponym. Thus, the pragmatic function of this type of proper name is to make the instrument visible and memorable and encourage its use and citation in future research articles.
Researching, promoting and protecting Welsh toponyms – Challenges and possible solutions
Authors: Parry Rhian
Published: February 2024

Place names are stepping-stones to our past, connecting us to our ancestors. Once severed, geographical, social and cultural links between local people and place and names cannot be restored. Documentary and mapping research has been conducted in parts of the largely upland, a protected area of Snowdonia National Park. A new methodology reveals a palimpsest of toponyms in Welsh rural landscapes since 1284 and uncovers previously concealed history and untold narratives of Welsh heritage. Toponyms in Wales are under threat. Social and economic changes impose adverse effects on the traditional family farm, relic farm buildings and linear landscape features such as stone walls, banks and woodlands and field patterns. A consequence of this is the reduced use of toponyms. Tourists, walkers, climbers, and divers contribute to this erosion unintentionally. They often translate toponyms literally or make up their own (usually non-Welsh) names, for rock climbs, lakes, peaks, and caves that are considered too difficult to pronounce. These newly invented names quickly replace the original toponyms, often reinforced by guidebooks and maps published in English. New housing estates, homes and tourist businesses frequently adopt English names which are not in keeping with traditional visual signage in rural areas. The Welsh Place Name Society (WPNS) formed in 2013 is a grass roots and academic inclusive organisation which provided robust evidence to the Welsh Government during the consultation stage of the Historic Environment Bill 2016. However, it was decided not to give place names legal protection, unlike historic monuments, country houses and bats. The Office of The Commissioner for Welsh has a well-established panel of experts who determine standardised spellings for towns and villages. Their on-line list provides a useful reference for organisations and individuals, but this list and others have no legal standing. This paper discusses the critical legal issue of protecting place names in Wales and illustrates how the Society has worked alongside organisations and local communities in Wales to promote and defend place names.
“Esra Erol’da” Programı Bağlamında Türkiye’deki Değer Erozyonu: Aile Birliğine Önem Verme
Authors: Coşkun Keskin Sevgi , Gezer Faruk , Arıçam Nurullah
Published: February 2024

Medyanın gelişmesi ve değişmesiyle değerlere yüklenen anlamlar da değişmiş toplumun olaylara ve davranışlara yaklaşımı yeni boyutlar kazanmıştır. Kadınların sesi olma ve çeşitli sorunları çözme iddiasıyla ortaya çıktığı ifade edilen programlarla toplumda yaşanan değer erozyonları da daha görünür olmuştur. Bu çalışmada, bu programlardan biri olan “Esra Erol’da” programında yer alan, özellikle aile içinde yaşanan olaylar analiz edilerek Türkiye’deki değer erozyonları ve bu erozyonlara neden olan durumlar ortaya konulmaya çalışılmıştır. Bu amaçla, nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden örnek olay (durum-vaka) incelemesi deseni kullanılmıştır. 2018-2022 yılları arasında her yılın başında, ortasında ve sonunda yayınlanan üçer olay seçilmiş ve toplamda on beş vaka incelenmiştir. Görüntüye dayalı doküman analizi yapılarak, veriler söylem analizi yoluyla içerik analizine tabi tutulmuştur. Araştırmanın sonucunda ahlaki/dini (sadakatsiz olma, iffetsiz olma, kötü niyetli olma, vs.), insani (bencil olma, güvenilir olmama, sorumsuz olma, vs.) ve toplumsal (toplumsal olaylara duyarsızlık, aileye önem vermeme, etik kurallara bağlı olmama, vs.) olmak üzere üç tema bağlamında değerlere yönelik erozyonlar tespit edilmiştir. Bu erozyonların nedenleri; sosyal medyanın amacına uygun kullanılmaması, çarpık aile ilişkilerinin varlığı, aile sevgisinden yoksunluk, gizlilik ve mahremiyetin ihlali, güven ve aidiyet eksikliği ve olumsuz ekonomik durum olarak görülmüştür.
Managing of types of functions Polish small towns in the context of their developmental challenges
Authors: Popławski Tadeusz , Grzegorek Michał
Published: February 2024

The article is related to the background analysis of the development dilemmas and problems of small towns. The quantitative situation of small towns in Poland was included, as well as a recognition of their functional types and identification of development barriers and dilemmas. And its management challenges. Small towns are important polycentric development centres, being a bridge between large agglomerations and rural areas. The article aims to attempt a typology of small towns in terms of their functions. To better understand the existing types of towns, the case study method and the analysis of literature and existing achievements were used, based on which new functional types of small towns were selected.
CATCHing CS Equity: Counselors, Administrators, and Teachers Collaborating Holistically
Authors: Nnamani Manee Ngozi M , Otero Salome , Smith Julie M. , Sheldon Josh , Boisvert Deborah , Reich Justin
Published: February 2024

Improving equity in K-12 Computer Science (CS) education benefits from the collaboration of classroom teachers, school counselors, and school leaders. This paper presents the outcomes of a pilot program that brought together cross-functional teams consisting of CS teach- ers, school counselors, and administrators. Over the course of a year, these teams attended monthly, equity-focused workshops, leverag- ing pre-existing materials from affordable, high-quality, research- based programs. The use of these resources demonstrated bene- fits of sequencing and synthesizing existing programs. Evidence from surveys and interviews shows that the workshops promoted learning and fostered collaboration between the cross-functional teams that would not have happened otherwise. Participants were motivated by the program, and they generated ideas that turned into actionable projects to promote CS education equity in their schools. While the initiative was well received, areas for improve- ment were identified, particularly, in school recruitment, workshop structure, and evaluation. This pilot initiative demonstrates that equity-centered programs comprised of cross-functional teams can help achieve systemic improvement of CS education equity.