bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
γ-T3 inhibits ARHGAP29 in the sensitization of gastric cancer cells to OXA by autophagy
Authors: Zhu Hao , Wang Fa-Lin , Zhang Shang , Gao Guang-Qiang , Tian Hong , Dong Hong-Wei , Wang Qi , Liu Ming , Liu Jia-Ren
Published: August 2024

Background
In the past years, chemoresistance greatly limited the clinical therapeutic efficiency of oxaliplatin (OXA) in gastric cancer (GC). γ-Tocotrienol (γ-T3), a subtype of vitamin E, has attracted a lot of attention on monotherapies or with traditional chemotherapeutic agents. Therefore, the co-treatment of γ-T3 with OXA could be an excellent measure to combat this problem.
Methods
This study investigated the effects of γ-T3 combined with oxaliplatin (OXA) on the proliferation, cell cycle, autophagy, and ARHGAP29/GSK-3β/β-Catenin signaling pathways in gastric cancer cells, employing methods such as MTT and MB assays, flow cytometry, Western blot, real-time quantitative PCR, immunohistochemistry, and molecular docking, as well as in vivo assessment using a nude mouse xenograft model to evaluate the synergistic antitumor effects of γ-T3 and OXA.
Results
In this study, we found that treatment of γ-T3 with OXA inhibited the proliferation and arrested the cell cycle of MKN45 cells and AGS cells, especially better synergistic effects could be gotten in combination of γ-T3 (26.3µmol/L) and OXA (600nmol/L) in MKN45 cells (CI = 0.55). Compared to the control group (30% alcohol), nude mice injected with γ-T3 (20mg/kg b.w.) or OXA (2.0 mg/kg b.w) by intraperitoneal (IP) suppressed the growth of MKN45 cell xenografts, and the efficacy was significantly augmented by co-treatment of γ-T3 and OXA. In addition, ARHGAP29 was negatively correlated with the prognosis of gastric cancer and exhibited binding activity to γ-T3. Combination treatment with γ-T3 and OXA specially down-regulated ARHGAP29 expression in MKN45 cells and xenografts, and then further inhibited downstream GSK-3β/β-Catenin signaling by autophagy induced, resulting from increased LC3-Ⅰ/LC3-Ⅱ ratio and Beclin1 expression, and decreased p62 expression. Overexpression of ARHGAP29 reversed the autophagy-induced decrease in the cell viability of MKN45 cells via a GSK-3β/β-Catenin signaling.
Conclusions
Our findings indicated that γ-T3 exerts a synergistic effect of OXA on inducting autophagy and inhibiting the progression of GC, partially via ARHGAP29/GSK-3β/β-Catenin pathways.
PDCF-DRL: A Contention Window Backoff Scheme Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning for Differentiating Access Categories
Authors: Zhibin Zuo , Demin Wang , Xiaowei Nie , Pan Xiaoduo , Miaolei Deng , Mimi Ma
Published: August 2024

Purpose: In wireless network backoff algorithms, the application of Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) allows the agent to learn through interactions with the environment, enabling dynamic adjustment of the contention window (CW) size to improve network performance and throughput. However, existing wireless network backoff algorithms integrated with DRL still face problems such as inappropriate backoff strategies, high latency during the backoff process, suboptimal throughput under heavy load conditions, and failure to satisfy the need for differentiating access categories (ACs).To further enhance the performance of wireless networks and meet the various quality of service (QoS) requirements of users based on AC differentiation.
Methods: This paper proposes a CW backoff scheme based on DRL for differentiating ACs. The scheme uses DRL technology to observe the channel collision rate and sense the current network conditions, thereby adaptively adjusting the CW size for ACs. In addition, it dynamically adjusts the backoff strategy according to the perceived current network conditions to optimize the data transmission process.
Results: When the number of competing stations increases from 20 to 120, with an equal number of stations for each AC, the overall throughput of this scheme ranges from 82.86% to 80.81%, representing an improvement of 34.2% to 72.1% over the traditional EDCA mechanism. The overall collision rate ranges from 2.36% to 9.15%, which is a reduction of 43% to 79.18% compared to the traditional EDCA mechanism. Additionally, there is a significant improvement compared to existing deep reinforcement learning-based optimization schemes.
Conclusion: Experimental results show that this scheme effectively discriminates between different ACs, resulting in lower latency and higher throughput for high-priority traffic. Furthermore, adaptively adjusting the CW size and improving the backoff strategy maintains a low collision rate and stable throughput even under heavy load conditions, significantly improving the overall network performance.
Effects of soil salinity on nodulation and growth of invasive and native Prosopis seedlings in arid deserts
Authors: Kenany Eman T. El , El-Keblawy Ali , Shaltout Salma K.
Published: August 2024

Soil salinity is a major environmental stressor that significantly affects nodule formation and the growth of both exotic and native plant species. This study investigates the effects of soil salinity and the canopy cover of Prosopis juliflora on the physico-chemical properties of soil and the nodulation and growth of two exotic (P. juliflora and P. pallida) and one native (P. cineraria) Prosopis species in the arid deserts of the UAE. The results reveal significant variations in soil nutrient content and physical properties under and away from the canopies in both salty and non-salty habitats. Soils under the P. juliflora canopy, particularly in non-salty habitats, exhibited higher levels of essential nutrients and improved physical conditions compared to soils away from the canopy. These favorable conditions led to enhanced nodule formation and biomass production. Prosopis juliflora and P. pallida showed superior growth and nodulation compared to P. cineraria, suggesting a better adaptation to the modified soil environment under the P. juliflora canopy. Despite the study finding that soil salinity negatively impacted soil microbial communities, nutrient availability, and plant growth, P. juliflora demonstrated high salinity tolerance. It maintained robust nodulation and growth, indicating its potential for invading and even rehabilitating degraded saline lands. These findings underscore the importance of canopy cover in mitigating salinity, enhancing soil fertility, and supporting plant growth. The study provides valuable insights into the invasive ability of different Prosopis species, and ecosystem management in arid regions.
Comparison of the natural course of clinical and radiologic features in 13 patients with TRPV4-related skeletal dysplasias
Authors: Güneş Nilay , Alkaya Dilek Uludağ , Kurugoğlu Sebuh , Özyalvaç Nuri , Bursalı Ayşegül , Elçioğlu Nursel H. , Tüysüz Beyhan
Published: August 2024

Background
Heterozygous TRPV4 mutations cause a group of skeletal dysplasias characterized by short stature, short trunk, and spinal deformities.
Objective
The aim of this study is to compare the natural history of clinical and radiologic features of patients with different TRPV4-related skeletal dysplasias.
Material and methods
Thirteen patients with a mutation in TRPV4 from 10 families were included in the study, and 11 were followed for a median of 6.5 years. The clinical phenotype of five patients was compatible with Kozlowski-type spondylometaphyseal dysplasia (SMDK), three each with classic form metatropic dysplasia (MD) and brachyolmia-3 (BCYM3), one each with the mild form of Maroteaux-type spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia (SEDM), and congenital distal spinal muscular atrophy (CDSMA).
Results
Short stature, and bone pain during running, walking, and stair climbing occurred in SMDK and MD patients after the age of 5 years and became more pronounced with increasing age. Kyphosis was more pronounced in SMDK and MD patients, and scoliosis in BCYM3 and CDSMA. Severe platyspondyly and delayed carpal ossification persisted into adulthood in SMDK and MD patients. Pelvic radiographs of SMDK patients showed irregular proximal femora leading to destruction of the femoral head towards the end of puberty while the marked widening of the femoral neck also occurred in MD. We noticed that metaphyseal dysplasia in long bones other than the proximal femur was so inconspicuous that it could be ignored in SMDK patients.
Conclusion
This study identified important radiologic features that vary by age in TRPV4-related dysplasias and also intrafamilial variability in SMDK and BCYM3 families.
Learning about AI ethics from cases: A scoping review of AI incident repositories and cases
Authors: Knight Simon , McGrath Cormac , Viberg Olga , Pargman Teresa Cerratto
Published: August 2024

Background
Cases provide a practical resource for learning regarding the uses and challenges of AI applications. Cases give insight into how principles and values are implicated in real contexts, the trade-offs and different perspectives held regarding these contexts, and the – sometimes hidden – relationships between cases, relationships that may support analogical reasoning across contexts.
Objective
We aim to (1) provide an approach for structuring ethics cases and (2) investigate how repositories of cases structure those cases and their content.
Approach
: We motivate a scoping review through a conceptual analysis of ethics case desiderata. The review sought to retrieve repositories, (sometimes known as observatories, catalogues, galleries, or incident databases), and their cases, for analysis of their expression of ethics concepts.
Results
We identify n = 14 repositories, extracting the case schema used in each, to identify how this metadata can express ethical concepts. We find that most repositories focus on harm-indicators, with some indicating positive impacts, but with little explicit reference to ethical concepts; a subset (n = 4) includes no structural elements addressing ethical concepts or impacts. We extract a subset of cases from the total cases (n = 2,000) across repositories, identifying and extracting the subset of cases addressing education (n = 100). These are grouped by topic, with a structured content analysis provided of ethical implications from one sub-theme, offering qualitative insights into the ethical coverage.
Implications
Our conceptual analysis and empirical review exemplify a model for ethics cases (shorthanded as Ethics-case-CPR), while highlighting gaps both in existing case repositories and specific examples of cases.
Eco-Friendly Binder and Thickening Agent Isolated From Apple Rock Bael for Valuable Utilization in Textile Printing
Authors: Elshemy N. S. , Nassar S. H. , Elhawary Nancy S. , Ali Mona M.
Published: August 2024

When utilizing a commercial binder, it is important to prioritize natural resources for dyeing and printing textile substrates due to environmental concerns and regulations about toxins released by the textile industry. This study is concerned with isolating a genuine thickening agent and binder from apple rock Bael as a natural resource. The extraction of natural thickening agents and binders from apple rock Bael is an ecologically sound alternative to commercial thickeners and binders and a low-cost method for printing natural and synthetic fabrics. The isolated natural gum can be utilized as a thickener and binder in fabric printing applications. The results revealed that the isolated natural gum has good rheological characteristics. All printed samples using isolated natural gum as a thickener or a binder were fixed using innovative techniques, namely microwave irradiation for different time and power levels (covered and uncovered). For comparison all the printed fabrics were fixed using thermal fixation at different intervals and temperatures. The obtained results illustrated that all printed fabric had satisfactory color fastness properties, samples subjected to microwave fixation irradiation gave a depth color giving to K/S value and covered samples had higher value when compared with the uncovered one. Physical and mechanical properties of printed fabrics, such as color yield, color unevenness, penetration, and fixation% were evaluated.
Psychometric Properties of the Arabic Version of Interactive Breastfeeding Scale
Authors: Ghafel Hawraa
Published: August 2024

Background
Breastfeeding is a complicated phenomenon that is influenced by a number of factors, a number of instruments are used to test, evaluate, or gather particular data on the phenomenon, such as the assessment of mother-infants position, the evaluation of premature infants; as well as the abilities and characteristics of a construct like self-effectiveness and mother confidence in breastfeeding; It’s a complex phenomenon that may be subject to biological, psychological, cultural, social, economic, and political influences.
Methods
A descriptive (cross- sectional study design) was carried out to evaluate the factors that interfere with the mother-child interaction during breastfeeding. A non-probability 'purposive sample' consists of (377) mothers who attending primary health care centers in Baghdad City. The study was started at January/2024 to July / 2024.
Results
The Arabic version of the Interactive Breastfeeding Scale reveals strong psychometric properties with Cronbach’s Alpha values ranging from 0.71 to 0.86. Significant correlations were found between the scale and factors like Mother’s Perspective (r = .886) and Child Perspective (r = .661). The findings highlight the importance of mother and child-related factors in breastfeeding experiences.
Conclusions
The Arabic version of the Interactive Breastfeeding Scale (IBfS) demonstrates strong reliability and validity, making it a robust tool for assessing breastfeeding dynamics. Key factors such as Mother’s Perspective and Child Perspective show significant correlations with IBfS, underscoring their critical role in the breastfeeding experience. The scale’s psychometric properties support its use in diverse settings, providing valuable insights into mother-child interactions during breastfeeding.
Recommendations:
It is recommended to implement the Arabic Interactive Breastfeeding Scale (IBfS) in clinical settings to assess and support breastfeeding practices. Targeted interventions should focus on enhancing mother and child perspectives, given their strong correlation with breastfeeding experience. Educational programs for mothers to improve practices and perceptions. Further research is needed to explore the scale's applicability across different populations and to understand less impactful factors.
Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Prediction of Bile Duct Bifurcation Site in Pure Laparoscopic Donor Right Hepatectomy: A Human-in-the-Loop Approach
Authors: Oh Namkee , Kim Bogeun , Rhu Jinsoo , Kim Jong Man , Choi Gyu-Seong
Published: August 2024

Accurate identification of the bile duct bifurcation site is crucial in pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy (PLDRH) for living donor liver transplantation. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an artificial intelligence (AI) model to predict the location of bile duct bifurcation during PLDRH procedures. In this single-institution retrospective feasibility study, we analyzed 55 PLDRH procedures performed between August 2021 and April 2022. We developed a deep learning model combining UNet with a MiT-B3 encoder, utilizing a human-in-the-loop approach. The model was trained on 150 manually annotated frames and refined using expert-reviewed pseudo-labels from an additional 901 frames. Model performance was evaluated using 5-fold cross-validation and an independent test set. The final model achieved 97% accuracy in clinical evaluation for 5-fold cross-validation and 93.3% accuracy on the independent test set. Quantitative metrics showed improvements from the initial to the final model, with mean Dice Similarity Coefficient increasing from 0.392 to 0.472 and Intersection over Union from 0.279 to 0.339. Sensitivity improved from 0.487 to 0.643, while specificity remained consistent at 0.993. This study demonstrates the potential of AI in accurately predicting the bile duct bifurcation site during PLDRH procedures. The human-in-the-loop approach proved effective in improving model performance and annotation efficiency. While challenges remain in bridging clinical accuracy and quantitative metrics, the high clinical accuracy suggests a promising step towards integrating AI into liver transplant surgery.
Advanced Detection and Mapping of Landslides Using Interferometric SAR Imagery: A Case Study of the July 2024 Event in Wayanad
Authors: V Vineesh
Published: August 2024

Landslides, particularly in mountainous regions like Wayanad, India, present significant risks to human life, infrastructure, and the environment. The rapid and accurate detection of such events is critical for effective disaster response and risk mitigation. This study investigates the application of Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) for detecting and mapping a landslide that occurred on July 30, 2024, in Wayanad. Utilizing Sentinel-1 SAR imagery, this research highlights the advantages of InSAR in monitoring ground deformation over time, particularly in challenging terrains characterized by dense vegetation and steep slopes. The methodology involves analyzing the phase differences between pre- and post-event SAR images to detect surface displacement, enabling the precise delineation of affected areas. The study further enhances the interpretability of results by generating an interactive map using the Folium library, which visually represents the extent of the landslide through a differential interferogram with a customized color palette. This approach not only improves understanding of landslide dynamics but also provides valuable insights for decision-makers involved in disaster management. The findings underscore the potential of SAR-based techniques in advancing landslide detection and risk mitigation, thereby contributing to more resilient strategies in vulnerable regions like Wayanad.
Chemotactic Zn micromotor for treatment of high blood ammonia associated hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Tu Yingfeng , Feng Ye , Gao Chao , Chen Bin , Ding Miaomiao , Du Dailin , Rong Jinhui , Lv Qi , Wilson Daniela , Peng Fei
Published: August 2024

Hepatic fibrosis is associated with hepatocytes damage, leading to an abnormal increase in blood ammonia. Accumulating ammonia further aggravates the pathological environment and can trigger hepatic encephalopathy. Therefore, it is meaningful to construct therapeutic platform for targeted ammonia clearance. In this work, a biocompatible water powered Zn micromotor is constructed as ammonia chemotaxis platform, which can be actuated by water splitting reaction and the self-generated Zn2+ gradient. It can propel towards NH3·H2O source through the formation of complex ions [Zn(NH3)1](OH)+ and [Zn(NH3)2](OH)+, representing a generalizable chemotaxis strategy via coordination reaction. In vivo, the biomimetic swarming behavior of Zn micromotors allows precise navigation and reduction of the intrahepatic ammonia level, thus reshaping the local pathological environment. The decrease in blood ammonia leads to a reduction in ammonia permeated to the brain, which in turn alleviates neuron damage and inhibits the development of hepatic encephalopathy. This mechanism, operating in a green, zero-waste manner, facilitates integration of these micromotors into domain of biological regulation. Such environment adaptive platform is favorable for targeted treatment of hepatic fibrosis and hepatic encephalopathy caused by hyperammonemia, which is expected to provide inspiration for future personalized and precision medicine.
Mapping genetic susceptibility to preterm birth: Analysis of Utah pedigrees using shared genomic segment analysis
Authors: Workalemahu Tsegaselassie , Clark Erin A. S. , Madsen Michael J. , Yu Zhe , Dalton Susan E. , Esplin Sean M. , Manuck Tracy , Neklason Deborah , Wu Wilfred Chen-Han , Jorde Lynn B. , Camp Nicola J , Silver Robert M , Varner Michael W
Published: August 2024

Background: Spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB) is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. It is a final common pathway for multiple etiologies, some of which are well known while others likely remain to be identified. There is a genetic component to SPTB, but genetic mechanisms remain poorly defined. Well-characterized family-based studies may aid in identifying genetic contributors to SPTB.
Objective: To identify inherited risk variants for SPTB using large pedigrees.
Study Design: Using the Utah Population Database (UPDB), which links a 4.5 million-person genealogy to state birth certificate and fetal death records, we identified large pedigrees containing multiple women with early SPTB (<34 weeks’ gestation). We reviewed birth certificate data to exclude those with maternal and fetal diagnoses associated with iatrogenic preterm birth, resulting in 74 large multiplex pedigrees for early SPTB. Women with any SPTB (<37 weeks) within these early SPTB pedigrees were invited to participate. Enrolled women underwent comprehensive clinical phenotyping with review of primary medical records. Seven pedigrees, each containing at least 3 sampled women with SPTB, were the focus of this genetic study. High-density single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping was conducted in maternal peripheral blood samples from women in the seven pedigrees. Shared genomic segment (SGS) analysis was performed to identify genome-wide significant chromosomal regions shared in excess by women with SPTB.
Results: We identified two genome-wide significant regions. In single-pedigree SGS analyses, a 1.75 Mb genome-wide significant region at 8q24.23 was shared by 5 out of 6 women with SPTB in a single large pedigree (false positive rate per genome, µ=0.028). In duo-pedigree analysis, this region showed overlapping evidence with a second pedigree. The shared 1.05 Mb 8q24.23 locus had a more extreme false-positive rate (µ=0.0019). and contains FAM135Band KHDRBS3 genes, which have previously been implicated in oncogenesis and ovarian cancer. Duo-pedigree SGS analysis also identified a second genome-wide significant 67 kb locus at 12q21.1-q21.2 that was shared by all SPTB cases in two independent pedigrees (µ=0.01). The intersecting region at 12q21.1-q21.2 contains genes (CAPS2; KCNC2) implicated in vascular-related complications of pregnancy and preterm labor.
Conclusion: We identified two risk loci for SPTB using shared genomic segments analysis in large multiplex pedigrees. Identification of genes associated with SPTB may provide novel therapeutic targets for prevention and treatment to prolong pregnancy and improve outcomes.
Trade Liberalization and Performance of Nigeria Economic Growth (1990-2022) an Empirical Study
Authors: Adeoye Peter Ayodeji
Published: August 2024

The association between trade liberalization and economic growth in Nigeria was examined in this study from 1990 to 2022. The study used the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Bounds technique for cointegration. Yearly data were sourced from the World Bank Development Indicator (WDI). This research work considers Gross Domestic Product Per Capita (GDPPC) as the dependent variable, while inflation rate (INF), trade openness (TOPEN), Gross capital formation (GCF), and foreign direct investment (FDI) as the independent variable. Based on the ARDL approach, the test was carried out on each dependent variable and the independent variable to check the long and short-run regression findings for the coefficient of the lagged values of the dependent and independent variables. Some diagnostic test like the serial correlation test, and stability test were also carried out on the variables. From the results obtained Trade openness is positively statistically significant in the short run and the long run. However, the inflation rate is statistically but negatively significant to GDP in the short run and the long run. This means that when there is increased inflation, it reduces the GDPPC growth rate. Based on the findings, it was recommended that The government should set up policies that will encourage trade openness, and trade liberalization to other advanced and developed countries to also develop our own country.
Is mind-mindedness in mothers, fathers and children related to child adaptive and maladaptive emotion regulation?
Authors: Potharst Eva , Broekhorst Myrthe , Colonnesi Cristina , Zeegers Moniek
Published: August 2024

Parental mind-mindedness is an important predictor of child development. It is not clear whether parental mind-mindedness is also related to child emotion regulation in school-aged children or whether child mind-mindedness plays a role. The current study aimed to examine maternal, paternal and children’s mind-mindedness in relation to child emotion regulation and to examine the importance of the valence of mind-related comments (positive, neutral or negative). The study had a cross-sectional design. Mothers, fathers and children from eighty-three families with children aged 8–18 years participated in a mind-mindedness interview, and the children completed a questionnaire measuring adaptive and maladaptive emotion regulation. There was no significant association between maternal or paternal mind-mindedness and children’s mind-mindedness; however, when valence was taken into account, maternal positive and negative mind-mindedness were significantly associated with paternal positive and negative mind-mindedness, respectively. Additionally, children’s mind-mindedness toward their mother and father were significantly associated. Maternal mind-mindedness was the only significant predictor of children’s adaptive and maladaptive emotion regulation: positive and neutral mind-related comments predicted more adaptive emotion regulation, and neutral and negative mind-related comments predicted more maladaptive emotion regulation. Although it appears possible to reliably measure children’s mind-mindedness, the question remains regarding the meaningfulness of measuring this concept in childhood. The results of the current study suggest that, in school-aged children, mothers’ representational mind-mindedness plays a more significant role in the development of adaptive and maladaptive emotion regulation than fathers’ representational mind-mindedness. The valence of mind-related comments seems to matter. However, additional research is needed to determine the directionality of these effects.
The influence of village financial system (Siskeudes application), transparency, and internal control on fraud prevention
Authors: Usman Asri , Sundari Sri
Published: August 2024

Fraud is rampant in Indonesia, especially in the public sector, including regional governments. Fraud cases have touched both the central and the lowest levels in the villages, which ensnare many people in the village. This study aims to analyze the influence of the village financial system (Siskeudes application), transparency, and internal control on fraud prevention in village governance in Pinrang District, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. The sample includes village heads, treasurers, and village representative bodies, and it has a total of 51 people. The primary data are obtained from questionnaires using a quantitative approach and a multiple linear regression with the Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) application. The research results show that the coefficient of determination (R2) is 0.657. Thus, the magnitude of the influence of village financial system, transparency, and internal government control on fraud prevention amounts to 65.7%. The results of the study show that the village financial system has a significant positive effect on fraud prevention (p-value = 0.025 < 0.05), transparency has a significant positive effect on fraud prevention (p-value = 0.031 < 0.05), and internal control has a significant positive effect on fraud prevention (p-value = 0.035 < 0.05).
PHOTOCATALYTIC WATER SPLITTING USING THE SEMICONDUCTOR HETEROJUNCTION BETWEEN MoO3-X/CDS
Authors: L. N. Sousa Felipe , B. C. Oliveira Luana , Mojica Lizeth Carolina , J. L. Maciel Leonardo , V. Freitas Denilson , A. S. Garcia Marco , M. Azevedo Walter , Machado Giovanna
Published: August 2024

It is essential to diversity energy sources for ensuring sustainability. While hydrogen is considered a promising energy storage medium, its potential hinges on the development of efficient photocatalysts for green production. In addressing this challenge, we evaluated the performance of a heterojunction system composed of non-stoichiometric molybdenum oxides (MoO3-x) and cadmium sulfide (CdS) quantum dots (QDs) for water splitting. MoO3-x were synthesized via gamma irradiation of the MoO3 in the presence of formic acid (FA), while CdS-MPA QDs were electrosynthesized. The heterojunction was formed through adsorption. The structural and electronic characterization revealed a progressive transformation from MoO3 to MoO3-x and MoO3-x/CdS-MPA QDs, demonstrating enhanced water-splitting performance. Upon evaluation, the study revealed a charge transfer mechanism, highlighting the significance of relative band positions between MoO3-x and CdS-MPA QDs in promoting eco-friendly hydrogen evolution and methanol processing. Thus, we suggest that the synergism between MoO3-x and CdS-MPA QDs semiconductors makes the heterojunction system a promising solution for photocatalytic production of hydrogen and oxygen.
Antimicrobial resistance characterization of Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus hirae isolated from marine coastal recreational waters in the State of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Santiago Giovanna Silva , Dropa Milena , Martone-Rocha Solange , dos Santos Talita Pereira , de Moura Gomes Vasco Tulio , Barbosa Mikaela Renata Funada , Razzolini Maria Tereza Pepe
Published: August 2024

Coastal water quality is facing increasing threats due to human activities. Their contamination by sewage discharges poses significant risks to the environment and public health. We aimed to investigate the presence of antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus in beach waters. Over a 10-month period, samples were collected from four beaches in the State of São Paulo (Brazil). Enterococcus isolates underwent matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/MS) and molecular analysis for accurate genus and species identification. The antimicrobial susceptibility for 14 antibiotics was evaluated using the disc diffusion method followed by a multidrug-resistance (MDR) classification. PCR amplification method was used to detect antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). Our findings revealed the prevalence of Enterococcus faecalis, E. faecium and E. hirae. Out of 130 isolates, 118 were resistant to multiple antibiotics. The detection of resistance genes provided evidence of the potential transfer of antibiotic resistance within the environment. Our findings underscore the necessity for continuous research and surveillance to enhance understanding of the pathogenicity and antimicrobial resistance mechanisms of Enterococcus, which is crucial to implement effective measures to preserve the integrity of coastal ecosystems.
Mitochondrial Deoxyguanosine Kinase Induces 5-Fluorouracil Chemotherapy Sensitivity through Autophagy
Authors: Dong Lu , Liu Sifan , Sun Wenjing , Liu Siying , Zhang Nan , Zhang Shutian
Published: August 2024

Aims:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of DGUOK in the pro-gression of colorectal cancer (CRC) and its impact on the sensitivity of CRC cells to 5-FU treatment.

Methods:

We conducted bioinformatics analysis and qRT-PCR to evaluate DGUOK expression in CRC tissues/cells. Cell viability of CRC cells treated with 5-FU was assessed using CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Autophagy levels were determined through immunofluorescence assays and Western blot analysis. Additionally, the influence of p-p38 on autophagy was inves-tigated via Western blotting. A rescue assay was performed to confirm whether DGUOK/p38 affects 5-FU sensitivity in CRC cells through autophagy.

Results:

Our findings indicate that DGUOK is upregulated in CRC tissues compared to normal tissues, correlating with increased cell proliferation and migration. Functionally, inhibition of DGUOK enhances autophagy, thereby decreasing the sensitivity of CRC cells to 5-FU. This ef-fect is partly mediated by DGUOK's impact on the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, specifically promoting the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, a crucial regulator in au-tophagy pathways.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that DGUOK could serve as a novel marker for predicting the efficacy of 5-FU in CRC treatment.
Continuous Flow Synthesis of Amides in Bio-Derived Solvent GVL
Authors: Mu Xu-Yang , Zhu Rui , Yu Li-Jie , Wang Wen-Long
Published: August 2024

The amide group is one of the most ubiquitous chemical motifs in the pharmaceutical
field. An efficient continuous flow synthesis of amides was achieved by coupling acids with amines
using 2-bromo-1-ethylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate (BEP) in the bio-derived “green” solvent γ-
valerolactone (GVL). The reaction proceeded under mild reaction conditions (ambient temperature,
1 min) with simple filtration without the need for extensive purification, allowing a safe and ondemand
generation of procainamide and VH032-Boc with a productivity of 0.44 g day-1 and 0.99 g
day-1. The finding of our work aligned with green chemistry principles should result in its adoption
by the chemistry community.
A Comprehensive Review on the Importance of Approaches for the Identification of Potential Biological Targets in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Kuruvalli Gouthami , Maity Subhasish , Santra Ayantika , Venkatesh Guru Prasad , swamy A. M. M. Mallikarjuna , Mubeena Ameerjan , Hebbani Ananda Vardhan , Reddy Vaddi Damodara
Published: August 2024

Cancer is the uninhibited proliferation of aberrant body cells. Cancer treatments and disorders
might have adverse implications. Side effects occur when medication affects healthy organs
or tissues. Identifying potential biological targets in cancer treatment is a tough and diverse
process that requires consideration of the underlying molecular mechanisms that drive cancer
growth and development. Drug identification methods are mostly based on in vitro drug screening
and in vivo animal studies. The biologically-based therapy technique has also been successfully
utilized to identify anti-cancer medications, as evidenced by studies and investigations based on a
biological target-protein interaction, drug-target relationship, and disease-gene network. To identify
biological targets, the researchers have looked for specific genetic alterations that aid in tumor
development and growth. This review focuses on the biological targets' role in cancer disease and
the usefulness of in silico studies to understand the target protein-drug interaction and predict therapeutic
drug molecules for cancer treatment.
Antidiabetic Potentials of Catechin in Combination with Metformin: An In Vitro And Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Rani Dash Jyoshna , Pattnaik Gurudutta , Pattanaik Sovan , Ghosh Goutam , Rath Goutam , Kar Biswakanth
Published: August 2024

Objective:

This work aims to evaluate the combined anti-diabetic effects of metformin
and catechin in vitro and in silico.

Methods:

In vitro, anti-diabetic potentials of (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) catechin, metformin,
and a combination of catechin and metformin were studied at different concentrations using acarbose
as standard. An in silico study determined their binding interactions with α-amylase (PDB
ID: 1hvx) and α-glucosidase (PDB ID: 5zcb). The molecular docking study further revealed the
binding energy and interacting residues of the docked 3D structure of the catechin, metformin,
and acarbose as a standard with the α-amylase and α-glucosidase receptors.

Results:

The result showed that a 100 μg/ml dosage of metformin and catechin demonstrated
higher enzyme inhibition compared to the separate treatments. Compared to metformin and acarbose,
the results of this study showed that catechin with 1hvx and 5zcb exhibited the highest
binding affinity interaction via hydrogen bonding and pi-interaction.

Conclusion:

The study's findings showed that when compared to metformin and acarbose,
catechin with 1hvx and 5zcb showed the highest binding affinity relationship via hydrogen
bonding and pi-interaction. Higher levels of enzyme inhibition were seen when metformin and
catechin were administered together than when either medication was taken alone. Based on the
aforementioned report, we deduced that metformin and catechin together had more potent antidiabetic
actions in vitro. We can conclude that catechin, in combination with metformin, may be
developed into a possible oral hypoglycemic drug. High-affinity capacity catechin was found to
have a strong inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase and α-amylase. The possible interaction
pathways between these main inhibitors and two digestive enzymes were identified by docking
studies. This study demonstrates the efficaciousness of catechin in preventing and treating posthyperglycemia.
This work suggests interesting directions for future research and clinical
applications by endorsing the use of these phytocompounds as powerful anti-diabetic
pharmaceuticals, either as single compounds or in combination with synthetic drugs.
Microwave-Assisted Fabrication of α-AL2O3@ZIF-8 Composite for Effective Removal of Methylene Blue: Kinetic and Isothermal Studies
Authors: Huynh Thao Thi Thu , Dam Vu Nguyen , Perng Yuan-Shing , Nguyen Thi-Truc-Mai , Vu Thuy Thi
Published: August 2024

Background:

Synthetic dye removal from wastewater poses significant environmental
challenges. Metal-organic Frameworks (MOFs), like ZIF-8, offer potential solutions due to their
high adsorption capacities. This study has investigated the efficacy of a novel composite material,
α-Al2O3@ZIF-8, for Methylene Blue (MB) removal.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of α-Al2O3@ZIF-8 for MB removal. The
synthesis via microwave-assisted methods, physicochemical characterization, adsorption efficiency
evaluation, and isothermal/kinetic modeling, has been conducted.

Methods:

The α-Al2O3@ZIF-8 composite was synthesized and characterized using SEM, TEM,
FTIR, and BET techniques. The adsorption efficiency for MB was tested, and isothermal/kinetic
models were applied for mechanistic understanding.

Results:

The composite exhibited robust crystal connections and uniform distribution, with particle
sizes ranging from 0.5 to 0.6 μm. MB adsorption efficiency exceeded 97.8% under optimal
conditions. Isothermal and kinetic modeling revealed favorable adsorption behavior, notably with
the Langmuir and pseudo-second-order models.

Conclusion:

Microwave-synthesized α-Al2O3@ZIF-8 shows promise for efficient MB removal,
with treatment efficiencies surpassing 97%. This underscores the potential of MOFs in
wastewater treatment and emphasizes the importance of understanding adsorption mechanisms
for optimization.
Korelasi pasangan yang toksik dengan hubungan sehat mahasiswa berpacaran di Yogyakarta
Authors: Armadhanti Fanya , Harahap Farida
Published: August 2024

Banyaknya pasangan terutama mahasiswa belum mengetahui pentingnya memiliki pasangan yang tepat dalam mewujudkan hubungan yang sehat. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui keterkaitan antara pasangan toksik dan hubungan yang sehat pada mahasiswa. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif yang bersifat korelasional. Subjek dalam penelitian berjumlah 100 orang mahasiswa Yogyakarta yang sedang menjalani pacaran minimal 3 bulan. Instrumen penelitian adalah skala pasangan toksik dan skala hubungan sehat. Analisis data penelitian dilakukan dengan analisis korelasi Pearson. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan kategorisasasi pasangan toksik berada pada tingkat rendah dan kategorisasi hubungan sehat berada pada tingkat tinggi. Diketahui juga bahwa pasangan toksik memiliki korelasi dengan hubungan sehat yang bersifat negatif dengan nilai korelasi sebesar r = - 0,424. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa skor pasangan toksik yang rendah berkaitan dengan skor hubungan sehat yang tinggi pada mahasiswa Yogyakarta.
Adaptasi SInAPsi academic engagement scale (SAES) versi Indonesia
Authors: Hidayat Sinartan Adlan Pangaribawa
Published: August 2024

Performa, hasil, dan permasalahan dalam dunia akademik salah satunya dipengaruhi oleh keterlibatan akademik. Keterlibatan akademik membawa dampak yang baik bagi siswa maupun mahasiswa. Namun konstruk engagement ini lebih sering diteliti dalam konteks pekerjaan sehingga diperlukan fokus dalam konstrak keterlibatan akademik. Maka dari itu untuk mendukung penelitian mengenai keterlibatan akademik diperlukan skala yang dapat mengukur konstrak dengan baik. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengadaptasi skala SInAPsi Academic Engagement Scale ke bahasa Indonesia. Langkah penelitian meliputi forward translation, sintesis, back translation, dan back translation review. Pengujian lapangan skala versi Bahasa Indonesia melibatkan 103 mahasiswa Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa skala memiliki reliabilitas keseluruhan yang sangat baik yaitu 0,909 dengan indeks diskriminan yang berkisar antara 0,403- 0,869. Hal ini berarti SAES versi Indonesia merupakan skala yang reliabel dalam mengukur keterlibatan akademik
Brand trust sebagai prediktor customer loyalty pada konsumen produk air mineral AQUA Daerah Yogyakarta dan Jawa Tengah
Authors: Nabila Tiara Shafa , Purwaniningtyas Dyah Ayu
Published: August 2024

Persaingan para produsen air mineral menjadi sebuah tuntutan bagi perusahaan untuk meningkatkan pasar masyarakat. Salah satunya brand air mineral terkemuka yaitu AQUA yang mengalami beberapa tantangan persaingan dan isu negatif yang tengah dialami. Perusahaan untuk dapat tetap bertahan dan berkembang membutuhkan konsumen yang dalam jangka panjang tetap membeli produk sehingga tingkat loyalitas pelanggan sangat dibutuhkan dalam menghadapi tantangan pasar. Perusahaan dalam mencapai loyalitas pelanggan perlu memperhatikan kepercayaan pelanggan terhadap brand produk. Maka dari itu, penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk memahami pengaruh dari brand trust atau kepercayaan pada brand terhadap customer loyalty atau loyalitas pelanggan yang mengonsumsi air mineral AQUA. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan sampel yang diambil secara accidental sampling pada warga Yogyakarta dan Jawa Tengah yang telah mengonsumsi AQUA sebanyak 120 responden. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh positif yang signifikan dari brand trust terhadap customer loyalty. Variasi kontribusi brand trust sebesar 71,7% terhadap customer loyalty
Analisis Kompetensi Kepribadian Mahasiswa Calon Guru SD FKIP Universitas Riau
Authors: Pitaloka Widuri Bebby , Hermita Neni , Alim Jesi Alexander , Fauza Naila , Dipuja Diah Anugrah , Wijaya Tommy Tanu
Published: August 2024

This study aims to describe in detail how the personality competencies of primary education teacher candidates for SD FKIP, Riau University. This research uses a quantitative approach with a survey method. The research was conducted at PGSD FKIP, Riau University, involving 120 active students. The data collection technique in this study used a questionnaire. The data analysis technique used in this study is to calculate the percentage of data from each indicator, then interpret the data percentage score and analyze each indicator in depth. The results of this study indicate that the personality competencies of primary school education teacher candidates 70,10% with a good category. This research is expected to be an evaluation of various parties in the personality of primary school education teacher candidates at FKIP, Riau University. This research is also expected to be a study material for other researchers in analyzing and developing student personality competencies in preparation for becoming primary school education teacher candidates. Keywords: Personality competence, survey, pre-service elementary school teacher ========================================================================================================Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan secara detail bagaimana kompetensi kepribadian mahasiswa calon guru SD FKIP Universitas Riau. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan metode survey. Penelitian dilakukan di PGSD FKIP Universitas Riau dengan melibatkan 120 mahasiswa aktif. Teknik pengumpulan data pada penelitian ini menggunakan kuesioner. Adapun teknik analisis data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah menghitung persentase data dari setiap indikator, kemudian menginterpretasi skor persentase data dan menganalisis setiap indikatornya secara mendalam. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa kompetensi kepribadian mahasiswa calon guru SD 70,10% dengan kategori baik. Penelitian ini diharapkan dapat menjadi evaluasi berbagai pihak dalam kepribadian mahasiswa calon guru SD di FKIP Universitas Riau, penelitian ini juga diharapkan dapat menjadi bahan kajian bagi peneliti lain dalam menganalisis dan mengembangkan kompetensi kepribadian mahasiswa dalam persiapan menjadi calon guru SD. Kata kunci: kompetensi kepribadian, survei, mahasiswa calon guru SD
Keefektifan Model Problem Based Learning Berbantu Media Audio-Visual Terhadap Peningkatan Kemampuan Penalaran Siswa
Authors: Pitaloka Citra Dwi , Saputro Bagus Ardi , Reffiane Fine
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this research is to find out how the Effectiveness of Problem Based Learning Learning Model on Improving the Reasoning Ability of Class II Students in terms of fractional materials assisted by audio-visual media. The research design used in this study was the One Group Pretest Posttest Design. From the pretest value the average value of the class is 57.88 while the posttest value is 86.83, and based on the t-test analysis obtained tcount (34.449) t table (2.062) so H0 is rejected, meaning that the average before and after being treated is not same. Also shown in the classical mastery test, the results of the pretest reached 27% classical learning completeness. The results of the posttest achieved a learning completeness of 88%. A class is said to be complete if there are 67% of students who have completed learning. Thus, the posttest results can be said to be classically complete with 88% of students completing learning. It can be concluded that the Problem Based Learning learning model assisted by Audio-Visual Media is effective in increasing the reasoning abilities of second grade students at SD Negeri Pleburan 02 Semarang.
Penggunaan Modul “Aksi Sekolah” sebagai Upaya Peningkatan Kemampuan Literasi Baca Tulis Peserta Didik SD
Authors: Utami Putri Rizki , Kironoratri Lintang , Fardani Much Arsyad
Published: August 2024

Literasi baca tulis merupakan salah satu literasi dasar yang harus dikuasai peserta didik berdasarkan Gerakan Literasi Nasional (GLN) yang dicanangkan oleh Kemendikbud. Berdasarkan hasil skor AKSI /  INAP tahun 2016 capaian  kemapuan membaca peserta didik jenjang sekolah dasar menunjukkan hasil yang memprihatinkan, yaitu 46,83 % peserta didik memiliki kemampuan membaca dengan kategori kurang. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh penggunaan modul “Aksi Sekolah” dalam upaya untuk meningkatkan literasi baca tulis peserta didik. Jenis penelitian yaitu, kuantitatif eksperimen dengan desain one group pretest posttest design. Subjek penelitian yaitu peserta didik kelas IV SDN 1 Cepu. Teknik pengumpulan data meliputi teknik observasi, tes, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Analisis data menggunakan uji V Aiken untuk instrument dan uji N-gain untuk uji data. Hasil rata-rata nilai pretest adalah 61.60 sedangkan nilai posttest adalah 79.20. Hasil analisis hipotesis menggunakan Uji N Gain diperoleh rata–rata N-gain skor sebesar 0,57 termasuk dalam kategori sedang. Dapat disimpulkan penggunaan modul “Aksi Sekolah” membawa pengaruh nyata dan dapat meningkatkan literasi baca tulis peserta didik SDN 1 Cepu dengan kategori sedang.