bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of GBL in the Engagement, Motivation, and Satisfaction of 6th Grade Pupils: A Kahoot! Approach
Authors: Balaskas Stefanos , Zotos Christos , Koutroumani Maria , Rigou Maria
Published: December 2023

In the modern day, educational demands necessitate student-centered instructional approaches at all levels of educational institutions. Through the integration of digital technology, these frameworks incorporate up-to-date teaching methods, encourage social engagement, and promote cultural values. Gamification in digital technologies assists in establishing an educational environment that is engaging, entertaining, personalized, and constantly available. This educational environment is based on digital learning resources and draws on stored human knowledge, articulating education by removing geographical and temporal boundaries. Kahoot! is a platform that allows the creation of and access to gamified assessment quizzes while integrating technology into the teaching and learning process. In this article, we present the results of a study based on a Kahoot! quiz used in a classroom with 27 6th-grade pupils in a Greek elementary school. Our objective is to determine the effectiveness of game-based learning by using Kahoot! as a supplementary element to traditional teaching methods. With the inclusion of a post-activity questionnaire for overall interest and motivation to learn while using Kahoot! and the Driscoll Questionnaire, we aim to explore the potential benefits of Kahoot! in the learning process, pupil engagement, and assessment. The analysis of the collected data from the questionnaire demonstrated a positive attitude toward Kahoot! as an alternative educational method and learning approach. It also revealed positive feedback on the motivation, enjoyment, sense of autonomy, creativity, and pupil interest in the learning process. In addition, the study indicated a moderate positive effect on pupils’ understanding of the learning content and a slight inclination towards the technology-based, non-traditional approach compared to traditional teaching. Based on the findings, by fostering an encouraging and creative environment, we can improve pupil engagement and overall motivation while promoting autonomous learning through a game-based experience.
Durability and Damage Tolerance Analysis Approaches for Wind Turbine Blade Trailing Edge Life Prediction: A Technical Review
Authors: Moroney Patrick D. , Verma Amrit Shankar
Published: December 2023

The size of wind turbine blades is increasing rapidly, and they are being installed in remote offshore locations. Consequently, it is essential to focus on improving the design and maintenance procedures in the blade industry to meet the growing demand. Of particular concern is the long-term operational performance of the wind turbine blade trailing edge. In this paper, we discuss the application of durability and damage tolerance analysis (DADTA) approaches to trailing edge service life prediction. DADTA is mandated in the aerospace sector to support airworthiness certification and to provide an updated life prediction of the structure based on the different stages of their service life. The DADTA framework has two main parts: durability and damage tolerance analysis. The durability part uses a structural fatigue approach based on a damage accumulation method during the initial design phase to predict the lifespan of a structure without defects. On the other hand, the damage tolerance analysis part uses a fracture mechanics approach and a damage growth method to update the lifespan prediction of a structure during the operation stages. This is achieved by utilizing sensors and inspection data as inputs while the structure is in service. Both these methods are comprehensive and have merits; however, their broad adoption in the wind turbine blade industry is still lacking. The current paper provides an extensive review of these methods and shows how these can be applied to the wind turbine blade industry, specifically for predicting the structural design life of the trailing edge of composite wind turbine blades. The review includes (a) defining wind turbine trailing edge failure modes, (b) trailing edge design procedures, and (c) a detailed discussion of the application of durability and damage tolerance analysis for trailing edge life prediction. Overall, this review paper would be of special interest to blade designers and would guide researchers and engineers interested in life prediction methodologies based on DADTA approaches for wind turbine blades.
Electromobility and Renewable Energy Sources: Comparison of Attitudes and Infrastructure in Poland and Germany
Authors: Tomczyk Mariusz , Wojtaszek Henryk , Chackiewicz Małgorzata , Orłowska Małgorzata
Published: December 2023

In the face of global challenges related to climate change and sustainable development, comparing attitudes and infrastructure in the field of electromobility and renewable energy sources in different countries becomes crucial. The question of differences and similarities between Poland and Germany in these areas sheds light on the unique challenges and opportunities that the two countries present to each other. The aim of the study is to understand these dynamics, which can contribute to the shaping of more effective policies and strategies for green energy and sustainable mobility. This study was conducted through a review of Polish and foreign literature, the use of the method of tabular comparisons, and the analysis of a questionnaire that was used. These complex methods combined both quantitative and qualitative analysis, which allowed for an in-depth understanding and comparison of attitudes and infrastructure related to electromobility and renewable energy sources in Poland and Germany. The study revealed significant differences and similarities between Poland and Germany in terms of electromobility and renewable energy sources. Germany shows a higher level of urbanization, a higher share of electric car ownership, and better charging infrastructure, while in Poland there is a strong belief in the key role of renewable energy sources. These findings may have implications for future green energy initiatives and policies in both countries. The study presents a complex picture of electromobility and renewable energy sources in Poland and Germany, showing clear differences in awareness, infrastructure, and attitudes. Germany seems to be more advanced in these areas, while Poland shows a strong commitment to renewable energy sources. These conclusions do not exaggerate the differences, but underline the need for a case-by-case approach to green energy strategies in both countries.
Molecular Mechanisms of IL18 in Disease
Authors: Yamanishi Kyosuke , Hata Masaki , Gamachi Naomi , Watanabe Yuko , Yamanishi Chiaki , Okamura Haruki , Matsunaga Hisato
Published: December 2023

Interleukin 18 (IL18) was originally identified as an inflammation-induced cytokine that is secreted by immune cells. An increasing number of studies have focused on its non-immunological functions, with demonstrated functions for IL18 in energy homeostasis and neural stability. IL18 is reportedly required for lipid metabolism in the liver and brown adipose tissue. Furthermore, IL18 (Il18) deficiency in mice leads to mitochondrial dysfunction in hippocampal cells, resulting in depressive-like symptoms and cognitive impairment. Microarray analyses of Il18−/− mice have revealed a set of genes with differential expression in liver, brown adipose tissue, and brain; however, the impact of IL18 deficiency in these tissues remains uncertain. In this review article, we discuss these genes, with a focus on their relationships with the phenotypic disease traits of Il18−/− mice.
Role of the Mitochondrial E3 Ubiquitin Ligases as Possible Therapeutic Targets in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Di Gregorio Jacopo , Appignani Martina , Flati Vincenzo
Published: December 2023

Ubiquitination is a post-translational modification that targets specific proteins on their lysine residues. Depending on the type of ubiquitination, this modification ultimately regulates the stability or degradation of the targeted proteins. Ubiquitination is mediated by three different classes of enzymes: the E1 ubiquitin-activating enzymes, the E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes and, most importantly, the E3 ubiquitin ligases. E3 ligases are responsible for the final step of the ubiquitin cascade, interacting directly with the target proteins. E3 ligases can also be involved in DNA repair, cell cycle regulation and response to stress; alteration in their levels can be involved in oncogenic transformation and cancer progression. Of all the six hundred E3 ligases of the human genome, only three of them are specific to the mitochondrion: MARCH5, RNF185 and MUL1. Their alterations (that reflect on the alteration of the mitochondria functions) can be related to cancer progression, as underlined by the increasing research performed in recent years on these three mitochondrial enzymes. This review will focus on the function and mechanisms of the mitochondrial E3 ubiquitin ligases, as well as their important targets, in cancer development and progression, also highlighting their potential use for cancer therapy.
Stress Conditions Affect the Immunomodulatory Potential of Candida albicans Extracellular Vesicles and Their Impact on Cytokine Release by THP-1 Human Macrophages
Authors: Kulig Kamila , Bednaruk Katarzyna , Rudolphi-Szydło Elzbieta , Barbasz Anna , Wronowska Ewelina , Barczyk-Woznicka Olga , Karnas Elzbieta , Pyza Elzbieta , Zuba-Surma Ewa , Rapala-Kozik Maria , Karkowska-Kuleta Justyna
Published: December 2023

Human immune cells possess the ability to react complexly and effectively after contact with microbial virulence factors, including those transported in cell-derived structures of nanometer sizes termed extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs are produced by organisms of all kingdoms, including fungi pathogenic to humans. In this work, the immunomodulatory properties of EVs produced under oxidative stress conditions or at host concentrations of CO2 by the fungal pathogen Candida albicans were investigated. The interaction of EVs with human pro-monocytes of the U-937 cell line was established, and the most notable effect was attributed to oxidative stress-related EVs. The immunomodulatory potential of tested EVs against human THP-1 macrophages was verified using cytotoxicity assay, ROS-production assay, and the measurement of cytokine production. All fungal EVs tested did not show a significant cytotoxic effect on THP-1 cells, although a slight pro-oxidative impact was indicated for EVs released by C. albicans cells grown under oxidative stress. Furthermore, for all tested types of EVs, the pro-inflammatory properties related to increased IL-8 and TNF-α production and decreased IL-10 secretion were demonstrated, with the most significant effect observed for EVs released under oxidative stress conditions.
In-Host HEV Quasispecies Evolution Shows the Limits of Mutagenic Antiviral Treatments
Authors: Colomer-Castell Sergi , Gregori Josep , Garcia-Cehic Damir , Riveiro-Barciela Mar , Buti Maria , Rando-Segura Ariadna , Vico-Romero Judit , Campos Carolina , Ibañez-Lligoña Marta , Adombi Caroline Melanie , Cortese Maria Francesca , Tabernero David , Esteban Juan Ignacio , Rodriguez-Frias Francisco , Quer Josep
Published: December 2023

Here, we report the in-host hepatitis E virus (HEV) quasispecies evolution in a chronically infected patient who was treated with three different regimens of ribavirin (RBV) for nearly 6 years. Sequential plasma samples were collected at different time points and subjected to RNA extraction and deep sequencing using the MiSeq Illumina platforms. Specifically, we RT-PCR amplified a single amplicon from the core region located in the open-reading frame 2 (ORF2). At the nucleotide level (genotype), our analysis showed an increase in the number of rare haplotypes and a drastic reduction in the frequency of the master (most represented) sequence during the period when the virus was found to be insensitive to RBV treatment. Contrarily, at the amino acid level (phenotype), our study revealed conservation of the amino acids, which is represented by a high prevalence of the master sequence. Our findings suggest that using mutagenic antivirals concomitant with high viral loads can lead to the selection and proliferation of a rich set of synonymous haplotypes that express the same phenotype. This can also lead to the selection and proliferation of conservative substitutions that express fitness-enhanced phenotypes. These results have important clinical implications, as they suggest that using mutagenic agents as a monotherapy treatment regimen in the absence of sufficiently effective viral inhibitors can result in diversification and proliferation of a highly diverse quasispecies resistant to further treatment. Therefore, such approaches should be avoided whenever possible.
Tetrazoles and Related Heterocycles as Promising Synthetic Antidiabetic Agents
Authors: Trifonov Rostislav E. , Ostrovskii Vladimir A.
Published: December 2023

Tetrazole heterocycle is a promising scaffold in drug design, and it is incorporated into active pharmaceutical ingredients of medications of various actions: hypotensives, diuretics, antihistamines, antibiotics, analgesics, and others. This heterocyclic system is metabolically stable and easily participates in various intermolecular interactions with different biological targets through hydrogen bonding, conjugation, or van der Waals forces. In the present review, a systematic analysis of the activity of tetrazole derivatives against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been performed. As it was shown, the tetrazolyl moiety is a key fragment of many antidiabetic agents with different activities, including the following: peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) agonists, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibitors, aldose reductase (AR) inhibitors, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists, G protein-coupled receptor (GPCRs) agonists, glycogen phosphorylases (GP) Inhibitors, α-glycosidase (AG) Inhibitors, sodium glucose co-transporter (SGLT) inhibitors, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) inhibitors, IkB kinase ε (IKKε) and TANK binding kinase 1 (TBK1) inhibitors, and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1). In many cases, the tetrazole-containing leader compounds markedly exceed the activity of medications already known and used in T2DM therapy, and some of them are undergoing clinical trials. In addition, tetrazole derivatives are very often used to act on diabetes-related targets or to treat post-diabetic disorders.
Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Protect Endothelial Cells from Hypoxic Injury by Suppressing Terminal UPR In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Keese Michael , Zheng Jiaxing , Yan Kaixuan , Bieback Karen , Yard Benito A. , Pallavi Prama , Reissfelder Christoph , Kluth Mark Andreas , Sigl Martin , Yugublu Vugar
Published: December 2023

Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) have been used as a therapeutic intervention for peripheral artery disease (PAD) in clinical trials. To further explore the therapeutic mechanism of these mesenchymal multipotent stromal/stem cells in PAD, this study was designed to test the effect of xenogeneic ASCs extracted from human adipose tissue on hypoxic endothelial cells (ECs) and terminal unfolded protein response (UPR) in vitro and in an atherosclerosis-prone apolipoprotein E-deficient mice (ApoE−/− mice) hindlimb ischemia model in vivo. ASCs were added to Cobalt (II) chloride-treated ECs; then, metabolic activity, cell migration, and tube formation were evaluated. Fluorescence-based sensors were used to assess dynamic changes in Ca2+ levels in the cytosolic- and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) as well as changes in reactive oxygen species. Western blotting was used to observe the UPR pathway. To simulate an acute-on-chronic model of PAD, ApoE−/− mice were subjected to a double ligation of the femoral artery (DLFA). An assessment of functional recovery after DFLA was conducted, as well as histology of gastrocnemius. Hypoxia caused ER stress in ECs, but ASCs reduced it, thereby promoting cell survival. Treatment with ASCs ameliorated the effects of ischemia on muscle tissue in the ApoE−/− mice hindlimb ischemia model. Animals showed less muscle necrosis, less inflammation, and lower levels of muscle enzymes after ASC injection. In vitro and in vivo results revealed that all ER stress sensors (BIP, ATF6, CHOP, and XBP1) were activated. We also observed that the expression of these proteins was reduced in the ASCs treatment group. ASCs effectively alleviated endothelial dysfunction under hypoxic conditions by strengthening ATF6 and initiating a transcriptional program to restore ER homeostasis. In general, our data suggest that ASCs may be a meaningful treatment option for patients with PAD who do not have traditional revascularization options.
One Health Determinants of Escherichia coli Antimicrobial Resistance in Humans in the Community: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Smit Chloé C. H. , Lambert Maarten , Rogers Kris , Djordjevic Steven P. , Van Oijen Antoine M. , Keighley Caitlin , Taxis Katja , Robertson Hamish , Pont Lisa G.
Published: December 2023

To date, the scientific literature on health variables for Escherichia coli antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been investigated throughout several systematic reviews, often with a focus on only one aspect of the One Health variables: human, animal, or environment. The aim of this umbrella review is to conduct a systematic synthesis of existing evidence on Escherichia coli AMR in humans in the community from a One Health perspective. PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched on “antibiotic resistance” and “systematic review” from inception until 25 March 2022 (PROSPERO: CRD42022316431). The methodological quality was assessed, and the importance of identified variables was tabulated across all included reviews. Twenty-three reviews were included in this study, covering 860 primary studies. All reviews were of (critically) low quality. Most reviews focused on humans (20), 3 on animals, and 1 on both human and environmental variables. Antibiotic use, urinary tract infections, diabetes, and international travel were identified as the most important human variables. Poultry farms and swimming in freshwater were identified as potential sources for AMR transmission from the animal and environmental perspectives. This umbrella review highlights a gap in high-quality literature investigating the time between variable exposure, AMR testing, and animal and environmental AMR variables.
SpiderID_APP: A User-Friendly APP for Spider Identification in Taiwan Using YOLO-Based Deep Learning Models
Authors: Luong Cao Thang , Farhan Ali , Vasquez Ross D. , Roldan Marri Jmelou M. , Lin Yih-Kai , Hsu Shih-Yen , Lin Ming-Der , Hsiao Chung-Der , Hung Chih-Hsin
Published: December 2023

Accurate and rapid taxonomy identification is the initial step in spider image recognition. More than 50,000 spider species are estimated to exist worldwide; however, their identification is still challenging due to the morphological similarity in their physical structures. Deep learning is a known modern technique in computer science, biomedical science, and bioinformatics. With the help of deep learning, new opportunities are available to reveal advanced taxonomic methods. In this study, we applied a deep-learning-based approach using the YOLOv7 framework to provide an efficient and user-friendly identification tool for spider species found in Taiwan called Spider Identification APP (SpiderID_APP). The YOLOv7 model is integrated as a fully connected neural network. The training of the model was performed on 24,000 images retrieved from the freely available annotated database iNaturalist. We provided 120 genus classifications for Taiwan spider species, and the results exhibited accuracy on par with iNaturalist. Furthermore, the presented SpiderID_APP is time- and cost-effective, and researchers and citizen scientists can use this APP as an initial entry point to perform spider identification in Taiwan. However, for detailed species identification at the species level, additional methods like DNA barcoding or genitalic structure dissection are still considered necessary.
HER2-Targeted Therapy—From Pathophysiology to Clinical Manifestation: A Narrative Review
Authors: Slavcheva Svetoslava Elefterova , Angelov Atanas
Published: December 2023

Trastuzumab is the primary treatment for all stages of HER2-overexpressing breast cancer in patients. Though discovered over 20 years ago, trastuzumab-induced cardiotoxicity (TIC) remains a research topic in cardio-oncology. This review explores the pathophysiological basis of TIC and its clinical manifestations. Their understanding is paramount for early detection and cardioprotective treatment. Trastuzumab renders cardiomyocytes susceptible by inhibiting the cardioprotective NRG-1/HER2/HER4 signaling pathway. The drug acts on HER2-receptor-expressing cardiomyocytes, endothelium, and cardiac progenitor cells (see the Graphical Abstract). The activation of immune cells, fibroblasts, inflammation, and neurohormonal systems all contribute to the evolution of TIC. A substantial amount of research demonstrates that trastuzumab induces overt and subclinical left ventricular (LV) systolic failure. Data suggest the development of right ventricular damage, LV diastolic dysfunction, and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Further research is needed to define a chronological sequence of cardiac impairments to guide the proper timing of cardioprotection implementation.
Dissimilar Friction Stir Lap Welding of Aluminium to Steel: Influence of Alloy Type and Sheet Thickness on Strain Distribution and Failure Location
Authors: Svoboda Hernán G. , Tufaro Leonardo N. , Leitão Carlos , Rodrigues Dulce M.
Published: December 2023

Dissimilar joining through solid-state welding is an important engineering tool to address the transportation industry’s sustainable goals. The dissimilar friction stir lap welding (FSLW) of two different aluminium alloys (AA5182 and AA5052 with two different thicknesses) to steels AISI1010 and DP1000 was performed in this work, in order to analyse the effect of the mismatch in base material properties and plate thickness on the joint strength and fracture location. The mechanical behaviour and the strength of the welds were assessed using transverse tensile–shear testing and hardness measurements. Strain data acquisition through Digital Image Correlation (DIC) was used. The differences in fracture location registered for the different joints are explained based on the alloy’s plastic properties and on the mismatch in thickness between the plates. Local stress–strain curves were plotted, using the strain data acquired through DIC, to highlight the mechanisms resulting in the differences in tensile behaviour among the joints. It is concluded that despite the differences in failure location and tensile behaviour, the strength of the joints was very similar, irrespective of the base material combinations.
A Continuum of Protection to Empowerment: The Evolving Legal Landscape of Decision-Making for Children and Adolescents
Authors: Moritz Dominique , Mathews Ben
Published: December 2023

In 2020, the United Kingdom’s Divisional Court made international headlines for their decision in Bell v Tavistock (2020) [...]
Discovering Potential Compounds for Venous Disease Treatment through Virtual Screening and Network Pharmacology Approach
Authors: Barrera-Vázquez Oscar Salvador , Escobar-Ramírez Juan Luis , Santiago-Mejía Jacinto , Carrasco-Ortega Omar Francisco , Magos-Guerrero Gil Alfonso
Published: December 2023

Peripheral venous hypertension has emerged as a prominent characteristic of venous disease (VD). This disease causes lower limb edema due to impaired blood transport in the veins. The phlebotonic drugs in use showed moderate evidence for reducing edema slightly in the lower legs and little or no difference in the quality of life. To enhance the probability of favorable experimental results, a virtual screening procedure was employed to identify molecules with potential therapeutic activity in VD. Compounds obtained from multiple databases, namely AC Discovery, NuBBE, BIOFACQUIM, and InflamNat, were compared with reference compounds. The examination of structural similarity, targets, and signaling pathways in venous diseases allows for the identification of compounds with potential usefulness in VD. The computational tools employed were rcdk and chemminer from R-Studio and Cytoscape. An extended fingerprint analysis allowed us to obtain 1846 from 41,655 compounds compiled. Only 229 compounds showed pharmacological targets in the PubChem server, of which 84 molecules interacted with the VD network. Because of their descriptors and multi-target capacity, only 18 molecules of 84 were identified as potential candidates for experimental evaluation. We opted to evaluate the berberine compound because of its affordability, and extensive literature support. The experiment showed the proposed activity in an acute venous hypertension model.
Pharmacological Effects of Shikonin and Its Potential in Skin Repair: A Review
Authors: Song Yanping , Ding Qiteng , Hao Yuewen , Cui Bing , Ding Chuanbo , Gao Feng
Published: December 2023

Currently, skin injuries have a serious impact on people’s lives and socio-economic stress. Shikonin, a naphthoquinone compound derived from the root of the traditional Chinese medicine Shikonin, has favorable biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, anticancer, and wound-healing-promoting pharmacological activities. It has been reported that Shikonin can be used for repairing skin diseases due to its wide range of pharmacological effects. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of Shikonin can play a great role in food and can also reduce the number of pathogenic bacteria in food. This paper summarizes the research on the pharmacological effects of Shikonin in recent years, as well as research on the mechanism of action of Shikonin in the treatment of certain skin diseases, to provide certain theoretical references for the clinical application of Shikonin, and also to provides research ideas for the investigation of the mechanism of action of Shikonin in other skin diseases.
Synthesis and Antiproliferative Potential of Thiazole and 4-Thiazolidinone Containing Motifs as Dual Inhibitors of EGFR and BRAFV600E
Authors: Hassan Alaa A. , Mohamed Nasr K. , Aly Ashraf A. , Ramadan Mohamed , Gomaa Hesham A. M. , Abdel-Aziz Ahmed T. , Youssif Bahaa G. M. , Bräse Stefan , Fuhr Olaf
Published: December 2023

Thiazole and thiazolidinone recur in a wide range of biologically active compounds that reach different targets within the context of tumors and represent a promising starting point to access potential candidates for treating metastatic cancer. Therefore, searching for new lead compounds that show the highest anticancer potency with the fewest adverse effects is a major drug-discovery challenge. Because the thiazole ring is present in dasatinib, which is currently used in anticancer therapy, it is important to highlight the ring. In this study, cycloalkylidenehydrazinecarbothioamides (cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, cyclooctyl, dihydronapthalenylidene, flurine-9-ylidene, and indolinonyl) reacted with 2-bromoacetophenone and diethylacetylenedicarboxylate to yield thiazole and 4-thiazolidinone derivatives. The structure of the products was confirmed by using infrared (IR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and single-crystal X-ray analyses. The antiproliferative activity of the newly synthesized compounds was evaluated. The most effective inhibitory compounds were further tested in vitro against both epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and B-Raf proto-oncogene, serine/threonine kinase (BRAFV600E) targets. Additionally, molecular docking analysis examined how these molecules bind to the active sites of EGFR and BRAFV600E.
On the Shoulders of Giants—Reaching for Nitrogenase
Authors: Einsle Oliver
Published: December 2023

Only a single enzyme system—nitrogenase—carries out the conversion of atmospheric N2 into bioavailable ammonium, an essential prerequisite for all organismic life. The reduction of this inert substrate at ambient conditions poses unique catalytic challenges that strain our mechanistic understanding even after decades of intense research. Structural biology has added its part to this greater tapestry, and in this review, I provide a personal (and highly biased) summary of the parts of the story to which I had the privilege to contribute. It focuses on the crystallographic analysis of the three isoforms of nitrogenases at high resolution and the binding of ligands and inhibitors to the active-site cofactors of the enzyme. In conjunction with the wealth of available biochemical, biophysical, and spectroscopic data on the protein, this has led us to a mechanistic hypothesis based on an elementary mechanism of repetitive hydride formation and insertion.
Discovery of Transfer Factors in Plant-Derived Proteins and an In Vitro Assessment of Their Immunological Activities
Authors: Yimam Mesfin , Horm Teresa , Cai Shengxin , O’Neal Alexandria , Jiao Ping , Hong Mei , Tea Thida , Jia Qi
Published: December 2023

Repeated exposure to pathogens leads to evolutionary selection of adaptive traits. Many species transfer immunological memory to their offspring to counteract future immune challenges. Transfer factors such as those found in the colostrum are among the many mechanisms where transfer of immunologic memory from one generation to the next can be achieved for an enhanced immune response. Here, a library of 100 plants with high protein contents was screened to find plant-based proteins that behave like a transfer factor moiety to boost human immunity. Aqueous extracts from candidate plants were tested in a human peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) cytotoxicity assay using human cancerous lymphoblast cells—with K562 cells as a target and natural killer cells as an effector. Plant extracts that caused PBMCs to exhibit enhanced killing beyond the capability of the colostrum-based transfer factor were considered hits. Primary screening yielded an 11% hit rate. The protein contents of these hits were tested via a Bradford assay and Coomassie-stained SDS-PAGE, where three extracts were confirmed to have high protein contents. Plants with high protein contents underwent C18 column fractionation using methanol gradients followed by membrane ultrafiltration to isolate protein fractions with molecular weights of <3 kDa, 3–30 kDa, and >30 kDa. It was found that the 3–30 kDa and >30 kDa fractions had high activity in the PBMC cytotoxicity assay. The 3–30 kDa ultrafiltrates from the top two hits, seeds from Raphanus sativus and Brassica juncea, were then selected for protein identification by mass spectrometry. The majority of the proteins in the fractions were found to be seed storage proteins, with a low abundance of proteins involved in plant defense and stress response. These findings suggest that Raphanus sativus or Brassica juncea extracts could be considered for further characterization and immune functional exploration with a possibility of supplemental use to bolster recipients’ immune response.
Stereoselective Synthesis and Antiproliferative Activity of Steviol-Based Diterpene 1,3-Aminoalcohol Regioisomers
Authors: Bai Dorottya , Schelz Zsuzsanna , Boncz Mária Fanni , Zupkó István , Szakonyi Zsolt
Published: December 2023

A series of novel diterpene-type 1,3-aminoalcohols and their regioisomers have been synthesised from natural stevioside in a stereoselective manner. The key intermediate β-keto alcohol was prepared using Wagner–Meerwein rearrangement of the epoxide derived from steviol methyl ester. The primary aminoalcohol was formed via Raney-nickel-catalysed hydrogenation of an oxime, and a versatile library of aminoalcohols was synthesised using a Schiff base with the primary amines. The aminoalcohol regioisomers were prepared from the mesylate of the β-keto alcohols. The corresponding primary aminoalcohol was formed via the palladium-catalysed hydrogenation of hydroxyl-azide, and click reactions of the latter were also carried out. The new compounds were characterised using 1D- and 2D-NMR techniques and HRMS measurements. The in vitro investigations showed high inhibition of cell growth in human cancer cell lines (HeLa, SiHa, A2780, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) in the case of naphthalic N-substituted derivatives. The antiproliferative effects were assayed using the MTT method.
Investigation of Photoluminescence and Optoelectronics Properties of Transition Metal-Doped ZnO Thin Films
Authors: Khan Mohsin , Nowsherwan Ghazi Aman , Ali Rashid , Ahmed Muqarrab , Anwar Nadia , Riaz Saira , Farooq Aroosa , Hussain Syed Sajjad , Naseem Shahzad , Choi Jeong Ryeol
Published: December 2023

Thin films of zinc oxide (ZnO) doped with transition metals have recently gained significant attention due to their potential applications in a wide range of optoelectronic devices. This study focuses on ZnO thin films doped with the transition metals Co, Fe, and Zr, exploring various aspects of their structural, morphological, optical, electrical, and photoluminescence properties. The thin films were produced using RF and DC co-sputtering techniques. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that all the doped ZnO thin films exhibited a stable wurtzite crystal structure, showcasing a higher structural stability compared to the undoped ZnO, while the atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging highlighted a distinctive granular arrangement. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was employed to confirm the presence of transition metals in the thin films, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was utilized to investigate the presence of chemical bonding. The optical characterizations indicated that doping induced changes in the optical properties of the thin films. Specifically, the doped ZnO thin film’s bandgap experienced a significant reduction, decreasing from 3.34 to 3.30 eV. The photoluminescence (PL) analysis revealed distinguishable emission peaks within the optical spectrum, attributed to electronic transitions occurring between different bands or between a band and an impurity. Furthermore, the introduction of these transition metals resulted in decreased resistivity and increased conductivity, indicating their positive influence on the electrical conductivity of the thin films. This suggests potential applications in solar cells and light-emitting devices.
Suicidal Ideation in People with Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Faleiros Fabiana , Binati Flávia , Bimbatti Karina , Vedana Kelly Graziani Giacchero , Carvalho e Silva Jonas , de Oliveira Käppler Christoph , Sousa Luís , José Helena , Rabiais Isabel , Almeida António , Albuquerque Geyslane
Published: December 2023

Suicidal behavior is considered a worldwide social phenomenon and a serious public health problem. In this regard, people with traumatic spinal cord injury may be associated with low mood, depression, suicidal ideation, and behavior. To evaluate the factors associated with suicidal ideation in people with SCI, this is quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive study was carried out in a virtual environment. In total, 200 people aged 18 or over with TSCI living in Brazil took part in the study. Data were collected using the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation, answered online by participants using SurveyMonkey®. The sample consisted of 200 participants, most of whom were male, from southeast Brazil, with a mean age of 36.22 years, a duration of injury of 134.4 months, and a 32.5% frequency of suicidal ideation, as suicidal ideation was also verified in relation to the variables of schooling, rehabilitation, and consequence of injury. A statistically significant relationship was found between the duration of injury and suicidal ideation. According to the results, a considerable percentage of these individuals still think about suicide. On the other hand, the duration of the injury showed a significant difference in relation to suicidal ideation, and it was observed that the shorter the duration of spinal cord injury, the greater the likelihood of suicidal ideation.
Cost-Effective Design of Polarization and Bandwidth Reconfigurable Millimeter-Wave Loop Antenna
Authors: Asfour Rawad , Khamas Salam K. , Ball Edward A.
Published: December 2023

A singly fed reconfigurable circular loop antenna is proposed for millimeter-wave (mmWave) communication systems. This antenna’s distinctive feature lies in its capacity to adjust both polarization and bandwidth characteristics, a capability made possible by the strategic integration of two PIN diodes. These diodes are engineered to function in various modes, allowing for three distinct polarization states and accommodating two distinct bandwidths. A meticulous alignment of these PIN diodes enables the utilization of a single DC bias network as a highly effective RF choke, which simplifies the design and reduces the associated losses. Additionally, a planar biasing network that consists of coplanar strip-lines (CPS) has been employed eliminating the need for lumped elements. The simple and totally planar configuration offers a choice of right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) radiation or left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP) radiation at 28 GHz. This is accompanied by impedance matching and axial ratio (AR) bandwidths of 12.9% and 8%, respectively, over the same frequency range with a gain of 7.5 dBic. Moreover, when the PIN diodes are unbiased, the antenna offers linear polarization (LP) over two narrow bandwidths at 27 GHz and 29 GHz featuring a maximum gain of 7.2 dBic. Therefore, the proposed configuration offers three operating modes: wide-band RHCP, wide-band-LHCP, and LP over dual narrow bands. Significantly, simulated results closely align with the measured outcomes, affirming the robustness and accuracy of this design.
Maximizing Efficiency in Energy Trading Operations through IoT-Integrated Digital Twins
Authors: Qayyum Faiza , Alkanhel Reem , Muthanna Ammar
Published: December 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) has brought about significant transformations in multiple sectors, including healthcare and navigation systems, by offering essential functionalities crucial for their operations. Nevertheless, there is ongoing debate surrounding the unexplored possibilities of the IoT within the energy industry. The requirement to better the performance of distributed energy systems necessitates transitioning from traditional mission-critical electric smart grid systems to digital twin-based IoT frameworks. Energy storage systems (ESSs) used within nano-grids have the potential to enhance energy utilization, fortify resilience, and promote sustainable practices by effectively storing surplus energy. The present study introduces a conceptual framework consisting of two fundamental modules: (1) Power optimization of energy storage systems (ESSs) in peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading. (2) Task orchestration in IoT-enabled environments using digital twin technology. The optimization of energy storage systems (ESSs) aims to effectively manage surplus ESS energy by employing particle swarm optimization (PSO) techniques. This approach is designed to fulfill the energy needs of the ESS itself as well as meet the specific requirements of participating nano-grids. The primary objective of the IoT task orchestration system, which is based on the concept of digital twins, is to enhance the process of peer-to-peer nano-grid energy trading. This is achieved by integrating virtual control mechanisms through orchestration technology combining task generation, device virtualization, task mapping, task scheduling, and task allocation and deployment. The nano-grid energy trading system’s architecture utilizes IoT sensors and Raspberry Pi-based edge technology to enable virtual operation. The evaluation of the proposed study is carried out through the examination of a simulated dataset derived from nano-grid dwellings. This research analyzes the efficacy of optimization approaches in mitigating energy trading costs and optimizing power utilization in energy storage systems (ESSs). The coordination of IoT devices is crucial in improving the system’s overall efficiency.
The Impact of Affect on the Perception of Fake News on Social Media: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ali Adeeb Rana , Mirhoseini Mahdi
Published: December 2023

Social media platforms, which are ripe with emotionally charged pieces of information, are vulnerable to the dissemination of vast amounts of misinformation. Little is known about the affective processing that underlies peoples’ belief in and dissemination of fake news on social media, with the research on fake news predominantly focusing on cognitive processing aspects. This study presents a systematic review of the impact of affective constructs on the perception of fake news on social media platforms. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in the SCOPUS and Web of Science databases to identify relevant articles on the topics of affect, misinformation, disinformation, and fake news. A total of 31 empirical articles were obtained and analyzed. Seven research themes and four research gaps emerged from this review. The findings of this review complement the existing literature on the cognitive mechanisms behind how people perceive fake news on social media. This can have implications for technology platforms, governments, and citizens interested in combating infodemics.
PEMENUHAN HAK NARAPIDANA PEREMPUAN HAMIL DAN MENYUSUI DI LEMBAGA PEMASYARAKATAN PEREMPUAN KELAS IIA SEMARANG
Authors: Ula Rifa Tafa’ul , Ananda FaridFarid Rizqi
Published: December 2023

The fulfillment of rights for female prisoners at the Women's Correctional Institution Class IIA Semarang experiences several difficulties. Female prisoners have natures that men, such as pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and menstruation, do not own. In October 2023, there were 2 pregnant female prisoners in Semarang Women's Correctional Facility. The purpose of this research is to find out how the implementation of the Correctional Act in fulfilling the rights of prisoners, especially pregnant women. The method used in this research is an empirical juridical method; primary data is taken from the law, while secondary data is obtained from interviews with prison officers. The result of the research is that the fulfillment of the rights of female prisoners, especially pregnant and breastfeeding women, has been well implemented by statutory regulations, such as a complete clinic with doctors and nurses, extra feeding, immunization, and referral to the hospital when approaching HPL. However, Semarang Women's Prison has several obstacles, such as the need for more facilities, minimal human resources, and a small budget from the government.
L'armée et la police des campagnes au XVIIIe siècle
Authors: Brouillet Pascal
Published: December 2023

The Army and the policing of the countryside in the eighteenth century

When in 1779 Guibert recommended the transfer to the army - along the lines of Prussian practice - of the ‘guarding and internal policing of the Kingdom, functions so badly and expensively fulfilled by the Maréchaussée’, had he got in mind the police missions carried out by soldiers in the countryside, akin to those tasks undertaken by the army in towns ? If the participation of the army in urban polcing is now well known, the comparable story of what took place in regards to rural policing is less familiar, even if the list of civil interventions by the army in the countryside has been established. Without pretending to bring to light anything new perse, this article is concerned with re-examining this one of the army’s roles and to identify what aspects remain to be uncovered through further research.
La violence psychologique dans la guerre au XXe siècle
Authors: Villatoux Paul
Published: December 2023

The use - or the threat of use - of violence in war has always had the purpose of producing psychological effects on the adversary with a view to constraining the latter to surrender. These effects can take different forms, from simple apprehensiveness to the most extreme forms of anguish. With the wars of the 20th Century, the capacity for violence of weapons systems underwent major development further to, notably, the appearance of new means of coercion whose fall-out extends far beyond the battlefield itself. Terrorist action constitues another aspect of this violence of a ‘psychological’ and political turn. Does nuclear deterrence, by brandishing the threat of the release of violence so great that the eventual gain resulting from its employment is out of proportion to the risk run, not constitute the paroxystic form of psychological violence as it was codified by strategic theorists of the 20th Century ?
Léon Adolphe Girod (1872-1933). Créateur des écoles d'aviation
Authors: Villatoux Marie-Catherine
Published: December 2023

Léon Adolphe Girod (1872-1933 ), creator of aircraft schools ; General Girod is undoubtedly a major figure in the history of French military aviation, the organiser of the flying schools during the Great War and a person whose half-overlooked image deserves to be remembered. Born in 1872, Girod grew up in the Doubs before entering Saint-Cyr in 1892. A talented officer, he nevertheless resigned his commission just four years later. Becoming a journalist, he acquired a leading posiiton as a reporter on military affairs. In 1906 he stood for parliament, being elected deputy for the Doubs, a seat he held until 1928. He sponsored numerous bills to do with military matters, and most particularly with the fledgling French air forces. When war broke out in 1914 he served for a while in the infantry of the French Army and then asked to be transferred into aviation. As commanding officer of the first French bomber squadron from 19 September 1914, he was then given charge of the aeronautical service of the Paris defensive sector as the German armies approached the capital, making some effective improvements to the aerodrome at Le Bourget. His talent for getting things done and his organisational abilities, allied to his deep knowledge of how things worked in the worlds of both politics and milita¬ ry affairs, led to his nomination on 19 September 1915 as the Director of Aviation Schools and depots. Subsequently he was appointed Inspector-General of Aviation in May 1916. Taking eneregtic action, he pulled the flying schools out of a deep crisis into which they had sunk at that point in the war, opening new establishments and conducting a comprehensive reorganisation of pilot training. Demobilised in July 1919, he resumed his public and parliamentary life, continuing to devote himself to the cause of French civil and military aviation down to the end of his life in 1933.
КОНЦЕПТ “ВІЙНА” В УКРАЇНСЬКІЙ ПАРЕМІЙНІЙ КАРТИНІ СВІТУ (до 95-річчя від дня народження проф. Л. А. Лисиченко)
Authors: Вільчинська Т. П. , Бачинська Г. В. , Вербовецька О. С.
Published: December 2023

Стаття присвячена дослідженню концепту “війна” в українській паре-
мійній картині світу. Аналіз показав, що його архітектоніка реалізується
в акціональному фреймі, структуру якого формують шість слотів: «Ім’я дії
та його властивості», «Актант-суб’єкт та його властивості», «Актант-
об’єкт та його властивості», «Зброя», «Хронотоп», «Результат дії», презен-
товані назвами бойових дій, захисників і ворогів, зброї, просторово-часових
параметрів та результатів воєнних дій. Підтверджено, що в умовах сього-
дення ці позиції піддаються певним змінам, проте істинні цінності залиша-
ються сталими.