bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Figure 2 from FLT3/CD99 Bispecific Antibody–Based Nanoparticles for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Ali Atham , Phan Alvin , Vaikari Vijaya , Park Mincheol , Pospiech Mateusz , Chu Ryan , Meng Yiting , MacKay John A. , Alachkar Houda
Published: August 2024

Construction and biophysical characterization of an ELP fusion protein targeting both CD99 and FLT3 receptors. A, A single-chain variable fragment targeting either CD99 receptor or FLT3 receptor was genetically fused to the amino-terminus of a high molecular weight ELP, A192. These CD99-A192 and FLT3-A192 nanoparticles were expressed in E. coli. Prior to protein refolding, CD99-A192 and FLT3-A192 were co-assembled to generate the dual-targeting CD99-A192/FLT3-A192 nanoparticles. B, Following purification, ELPs were obtained with high purity as indicated by an SDS-PAGE gel stained with Coomassie brilliant blue. On the right image, the fluorescent image of the SDS-PAGE gel shows efficient fluorescent labeling the proteins with NHS-rhodamine or FITC. C, The high purity of the ELPs was further confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS. The mass spectrum of Co-Assembled shows two sets of distinct m/z peaks corresponding to the presence of both CD99-A192 and FLT3-A192. D, The hydrodynamic radius (Rh) of the scFv-ELPs was measured using DLS at 37°C. Compared to CD99-A192 and FLT3-A192, Co-Assembled increased the Rh of nanoparticle formation. E, SEC-MALS was used to measure the absolute molar mass and radius of gyration (Rg) of the scFv-ELP nanoparticles. For all three fusion proteins, the monomers oligomerized to form nanoparticles with an absolute molar mass of 107 to 5 × 107 Da. F–H, The morphology of the (F) CD99-A192, (G) FLT3-A192, and (H) Co-Assembled nanoparticles was observed via negative-staining TEM, which showed an elongated, rod-like nanostructures. Scale bar: 0.1 μm. I, The transition temperatures (Tt) of the ELPs were measured at 0.4, 2, 10, and 50 μmol/L. Consistent with previous findings, the fusion of scFv to A192 lowers the transition temperature of A192; however, all formulations are expected to remain soluble at physiological temperatures.
FIGURE 3 from Persistent Ethnicity-Associated Disparity in Antitumor Effectiveness of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Despite Equal Access
Authors: Florez Marcus A. , Kemnade Jan O. , Chen Nan , Du Wendy , Sabichi Anita L. , Wang Daniel Y. , Huang Quillan , Miller-Chism Courtney N. , Jotwani Aparna , Chen Albert C. , Hernandez David , Sandulache Vlad C.
Published: August 2024

Best overall response by PD-L1. ORR data by race/ethnic group for patients with NSCLC treated with ICI monotherapy stratified by PD-L1 e50% (A), 1%–49% (B), and 0% (C). PR, partial response; SD, stable disease; PD, progressive disease.
FIGURE 2 from Persistent Ethnicity-Associated Disparity in Antitumor Effectiveness of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Despite Equal Access
Authors: Florez Marcus A. , Kemnade Jan O. , Chen Nan , Du Wendy , Sabichi Anita L. , Wang Daniel Y. , Huang Quillan , Miller-Chism Courtney N. , Jotwani Aparna , Chen Albert C. , Hernandez David , Sandulache Vlad C.
Published: August 2024

Best overall response by race/ethnic group. A, ORR data for all patients and by race/ethnic group for patients treated with either ICI monotherapy or chemo/ICI combination therapy. B, ORR data for all patients and by race/ethnic group for patients treated with ICI monotherapy. PR, partial response; SD, stable disease; PD, progressive disease.
A NEW SPECIES OF THE Odontomachus infandus SPECIES GROUP (HYMENOPTERA: FORMICIDAE) FROM PANGASINAN, PHILIPPINES, WITH NOTES ON SPECIES ECOLOGY
Authors: C. Acuña Darrell , Oliver Decier
Published: August 2024

ARTICLE HIGLIGHTS- New species of Odontomachus- Distribution and ecological notes- Updated species key
ABSTRACTA new species of Odontomachus Latreille, 1804 named O. ampipitbaybay sp. nov. is illustrated and described from specimens collected along the coastal area of Alaminos City, Pangasinan, Luzon Island, Philippines, with notes on its species ecology. The new species is diagnosed and compared against closely related species from Luzon. A distribution map of selected Philippine Odontomachus species is provided, and a modification to the key to the Philippine Odontomachus is proposed.
Abstract 296: Vascular Remodeling and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Evsevyeva Maria , Sergeeva Oksana , Prokhorenko-Kolomoytsev Irina , Shchetinin Evgenij
Published: August 2024

Background:
Vascular stiffness, which has proven prognostic value for future cardiovascular (CV) events, remains poorly understood in pregnant women. We aimed to evaluate the indices of vascular stiffness in nulliparous women when gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is diagnosed in them.

Materials and methods:
48 primiparous women in the first half of pregnancy (mean age 28.2±2.4 l) were examined. Vascular stiffness of the aorta and brachial artery in combination with central blood pressure (CBP) was measured using the diagnostic complex of BPLab (Petr Telegin, Russia) on the basis of software Vasotens. Two groups were formed: group 1 consisted of women with physiological pregnancy (n=33); group 2 consisted of women whose pregnancy was complicated by development of GSD (n=18). The data was processed using the software package "Statistica 10.0" (StatSoft Inc, USA).

Results:
It was found that in group of women with the presence of GDM compared with representatives of control group, the following changes were observed: the rate of the reverse pulse wave in aorta (PWVao) 9.7± 2.1 versus 11.1±2.5 m/s (P=0.05), the augmentation index of brachial artery (Aix) -49.0 ± 17.8 versus -52.5±11.6, and the augmentation index in aorta (AIxao) 3.7 ±13.2 versus 3.0 ±8.8. The values of peripheral and central systolic, diastolic and mean BP in both groups were almost the same. The average heart rate was 86 ±13.4 versus 82 ±13.1 beats per minute. Attention is also drawn to the decrease in the maximum rate of increase of BP (dP/dt) in women with the presence of GD compared with the control group – 607,5±172,8 against 668,0±200,4 mm Hg/s combined with a slight increase in the ejection duration (ED) - 295,5±41,1 against 289,0± 56,1 ms and slight decrease in the index of amplification (PPA) - 143±23 against 150±31. But these differences also have not reached a reliable level.

Summary:
The data presented above show that even early DM in the form of its gestational variant of the course is already able to lead to certain pathological restructuring of the vascular wall. Moreover, such remodeling concerns different parts of the arterial tree, including the wall of the aorta and peripheral artery. These data are useful to consider when planning a program of management of pregnant women with GD.
Abstract 460: Adventitial Delivery of Nanoparticle Hydrogel-calcitriol Attenuates Restenosis in a Murine Angioplasty Model
Authors: Cai Chuanqi , Zhao Chenglei , Kilari Sreenivasulu , Singh Avishek K , Misra Avanish , Simeon Michael , Li Yiqing , Misra Sanjay
Published: August 2024

Background:
Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is the first-line treatment for arteriovenous fistula (AVF) failure and immaturation. High rate of restenosis occurs post PTA procedure caused by venous neointimal hyperplasia (VNH), and decrease the durability of it. Failed AVF showed increased gene expression of
Ier3.
Poly lactic-
co
-glycolic acid nanoparticles (PLGA) loaded with 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D
3
(1,25 NP) can inhibit
Ier3
gene expression.

Hypothesis:
Adventitial delivery of 1,25 NP in hydrogel will reduce venous stenosis in a murine PTA model.

Methods:
Male C57BL/6J mice underwent partial nephrectomy at day -42 and arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation at day -14. At day 0, mice were randomized to vehicle group (PTA + PLGA hydrogel) or treatment group (PTA + 1,25 NP hydrogel). Mice were euthanized at day 3 for gene expression analysis and at day 21 for histopathological analysis. Doppler ultrasound was performed weekly to evaluate AVF patency and function.

Results:
At day 3, PTA + 1,25 NP treated vessels had a significant decrease in the gene expression of
Ier3
compared to controls. At day 21, 1,25 NP treated outflow veins had increased lumen vessel area, apoptosis, and higher peak systolic velocity, but decrease in neointimal area/media area ratio, fibroblasts, pro-inflammatory macrophages (M1), fibrosis (picrosirius red staining) and cellular proliferation.

Conclusion:
Adventitial delivery of 1,25 NP plus PTA has the ability to reduce restenosis and VNH formation. This protective effect is related to inhibition of
Ier3
gene expression which modulates vascular inflammation and fibrosis post PTA.
Abstract P263: Biomarkers of Dairy Fatty Acids and Incidence of Cardiovascular Disease in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)
Authors: de Oliveira Otto Marcia C , Nettleton Jennifer A , Lemaitre Rozenn N , Steffen Lyn Steffen , Kromhout Daan , Rich Stephen S , Tsai Michael Y , Jacobs, Jr. David R , Mozaffarian Dariush
Published: August 2024

Background:
Evidence on the role of dairy fat intake in cardiovascular health has been mixed and inconclusive. Most prior large studies have used self-reported measures of dietary intake and focused on relatively racially homogeneous populations. Circulating biomarkers of dairy fat in a multi-ethnic cohort provide objective measures of dairy fat intake and facilitate conclusions relevant to populations with different diets and susceptibility to CVD.

Aims:
To evaluate plasma phospholipid fatty acids 15:0, trans-16:1n-7 and 14:0 as objective markers of dairy fat and prospectively assess their associations with incident CVD and CHD in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). We hypothesized that circulating biomarkers of dairy fat would be inversely associated with CVD risk.

Methods:
We evaluated 2,837 U.S. adults 45-84 years of age at baseline (2000-2002), evenly distributed across four race-ethnic groups (Caucasians, Hispanics, African and Chinese Americans), in whom plasma phospholipid fatty acid levels were measured using validated gas-chromatography. Adjudicated CVD (MI, resuscitated cardiac arrest, definite and probable angina, stroke, and CVD death; n=189) and CHD (MI, resuscitated cardiac arrest, CHD death; n=141) were identified through 2010 during cohort examinations and follow-up calls. We also evaluated the influence of potential mediators of the associations of interest including BMI, diabetes, hypertension, HDL-C and LDL-C.

Results:
Self-reported intakes of whole-fat dairy and butter had the strongest association with 15:0. Self-reported dairy fat intake was more weakly associated with 14:0 and
trans
16:1n7. In multivariate models including demographics, lifestyle and dietary habits (e.g. intakes of red meat, fiber, fruits, vegetables), each SD-unit of 15:0 was associated with a 19% lower CVD risk (HR and 95% CI: 0.81 [0.68,0.98]) and a 26% lower CHD risk (HR and 95% CI: 0.74 [0.60,0.92]). Associations were strengthened after mutual adjustment for 14:0 and trans16:1n-7. Results were similar after adjustment for potential mediators. Plasma phospholipid 14:0 and trans16:1n-7 were not significantly associated with incident CVD or CHD in MESA. Results were similar across the 4 race-ethnicities.

Conclusion:
Plasma phospholipid 15:0, a biomarker of dairy fat, was inversely associated with incident CVD and CHD. Our data support the need for further investigation of CVD effects of dairy fat, dairy-specific fatty acids, and dairy products in general.
Abstract P310: Impact of HealthCorps Program on Participating New York City High School Students' Knowledge of Nutrition, Mental Health and Physical Activity
Authors: Heo Moonseong , Irvin Erica D , Ostrovsky Natania , Lounsbury David , Isasi Carmen , Blank Arthur , Yom Tiana , Ginsberg Mindy , Fredericks Lynn , Hayes Shawn G , Wylie-Rosett Judith
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
HealthCorps provides school wellness programming using curricula to promote changes in nutrition, mental health and physical activity behaviors. The research objective was to evaluate the effect of implementing its curricula on nutrition, mental health and physical activity knowledge and behavior.

Hypothesis:
That the HealthCorps program has positively effects on student knowledge and health behaviors in 14 public New York City high schools.

Methods:
Pre- and post-survey data were collected (N=2255) during 2012-13 academic year from New York City public high schools (N=14). An 18-item knowledge survey addressed three domains; 26 behavioral items were analyzed by factor analysis to identify 6 behavior domains, breakfast being a seventh one-item domain. We examined the effects stratified by gender, applying multi-level mixed-effects models to take into account clustering effects of schools and participants adjusted for age.

Results:
The HealthCorps program significantly increased all three knowledge domains (p<0.05). HealthCorps curricula significantly changed several key behavioral domains. Specifically, among boys, curricula significantly increased fruits/vegetables intake (p=0.03). Among girls, it increased acceptance of new fruits/vegetables (p=0.03), decreased sugar-sweetened beverages and energy dense food intake (p=0.03), but decreased breakfast consumption (p=0.04). The associations between knowledge and behavior were stronger in boys than girls.

Conclusion:
The HealthCorps program significantly increased participants’ knowledge on nutrition, mental health and physical activity. It also improved several key behavioral domains, which are targets of the 2010 Dietary Guidelines to address obesity in youth.
Abstract 19455: A Novel Caveolin-1 Frameshift Mutation Shows Critical Regulation of Mitochondrial Structure, Function and Extracellular Transport
Authors: Siamwala Jamila H , Corridien Ross , Nguyen Uyen , Meier Angela , Schrauwen Isabelle , Ramsey Keri , Narayanan Vinodh , Roth David M , Patel Hemal H
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
Caveolins act as molecular scaffolds for signal transduction. A number of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) mutations are associated with pulmonary hypertension with one recent frameshift mutation in exon 3 (c.478_479delTT) resulting in progeroid-like phenotype, lipodystrophy, and pulmonary hypertension. The cellular etiology of these diverse phenotypes is unknown. We have recently shown a critical relationship between caveolins in regulation of mitochondrial function.

Hypothesis:
As mitochondria are a key to cellular homeostasis, we hypothesize that a Cav-1 mutation (CM) can alter mitochondrial structure and function.

Methods and Results:
We obtained fibroblasts from a patient containing the CM as well as controls and utilized a variety of microscopy, cell biology, and biochemical techniques to study the role of Cav-1 in mitochondrial regulation. Transmission electron microscopy revealed dysmorphic nuclei, enlarged and increased number of endoplasmic reticulum, and increased number of smaller, swollen, and rounded mitochondria compared to normal cells. Mitochondrial DNA content was increased in CM cells with immunoblots showing decreased mitochondrial fission protein DRP1. Mitotracker staining showed large pools of aggregated mitochondria and DCFDA assay showed 3-fold increase in production of reactive oxygen species in CM cells compared to normal cells (p<0.0001, n=8). Seahorse metabolic flux assay showed lower maximal respiration rates in CM cells compared to normal cells (p=0.0035, n=24). Mitochondrial complex II activity was impaired as addition of succinate failed to evoke any response to ADP in CM cells compared to normal cells. Live 3D microscopy with mitotracker staining showed extracellular mitochondria being transported along structured nanotubes between normal cell; however, impaired extracellular mitochondrial cargo arrangement and movement was observed in cells with the CM. Rescue experiments with Cav-1 overexpression resulted in improved mitochondrial respiration in CM cells.

Conclusion:
Together the results indicate that Cav-1 may be a critical regulator of mitochondrial structure, function, and transport and mutations in Cav-1 may explain the mitochondrial etiology of a variety of diseases.
Abstract 18677: Increased Disease Complexity and Resource Utilization Among Heart Failure Related Visits in the Emergency Department From 2007-2014
Authors: Griffis Heather , Song Lihai , Mejia Erika J , O'Connor Matthew J , Lin Kimberly Y , Mascio Christopher E , Shamszad Pirouz , Donoghue Aaron , Ravishankar Chitra , Shaddy Robert E , Rossano Joseph W
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
With increasing health care costs, complex conditions such as heart failure (HF) are becoming more resource intensive. The epidemiology of HF among pediatric patients is relatively unknown, as well as associated resource utilization. This vulnerable population is complex, with many associated comorbidities.

Hypothesis:
We aimed to test the hypothesis that complex chronic conditions and resource utilization among pediatric heart failure related (HFR) emergency department (ED) visits has increased over time in a nationally representative dataset.

Methods:
The National Emergency Department Survey (NEDS) is a nationally representative sample of approximately 135 million emergency department visits across the United States from 2007-2014. Pediatric HFR patient visits were identified via age (<18 years) and ICD-9 codes for heart failure. Complex chronic conditions were coded for 7 common diagnosis groups. Demographic and clinical characteristics are reported. Sample weights are used respective to each year of data.

Results:
The number of HFR ED visits was stable over time with 5233 in 2007 to 4656 in 2014. In 2014, the mean age of these patients was 4.9 years(SE 0.2), 48%(SE 1.6) were females, and CHD was the diagnosis in 45%(SE 1.6), and cardiomyopathy in 10%(SE 1.0). The most common chronic condition (other than cardiac/congenital or genetic) was gastrointestinal (17.0%), followed by neuromuscular (7.9%) and metabolic (6.8%). The proportion of HFR ED visits with 3 or more complex chronic conditions rose from 12.4% in 2007 to 18.1% in 2014. Median total charges for HFR ED visit increased by 47% between 2007 to 2014 [$1296 (CI 1243-1349) to $1908 (CI 1766-2055), respectively]. For HF patients with 3+ complex chronic conditions, mean total charges increased 79% from $1360(SE 101) to $2434(SE 182).

Conclusions:
While the total HFR ED visits over the decade from 2007 to 2014 remained stable, the proportion of pediatric HFR ED visits with complex chronic conditions increased along with charges associated with care. These results highlight the increasing complexity of pediatric HF patients and the need for further study to develop optimal care models in this challenging population.
Multiple Secularities in Africa – An Introduction
Authors: Burchardt Marian , Echtler Magnus , Wilkens Katharina
Published: August 2024

Raising timely and urgent questions about the forms, scope and boundaries of religious authority and practice, this article offers novel ways for the study of secularities and secularisms in contemporary African societies. In recent scholarly debates on secularity, Africa has been marginal. Part of the reason, it was suggested was that African ways of being in, and knowing, the world lay outside the religious-secular divide. We contest such positions. Secularism was clearly part of modernists colonial ideologies that called for the eradication of African beliefs described as backward and irrational. We find that the colonial encounter had a powerful historical impact, essentializing and othering African societies as marked by holistic indigenous cultures rather than differentiated religions. We suggest that the complex interplay of different African and European cultures has simultaneously shaped the social construction and historical development of multiple secularities. We propose that the concept of multiple secularities provides creative avenues to rethink religion, political authority and belonging. We consider secularities as contested arrangements of religious and other spheres whose dynamics include processes of de-differentiation and de-secularization.
‘The True and Scientific Religion’
Authors: Bachmann Judith
Published: August 2024

A scientific worldview is taken to be a dominant factor of European secularity but peculiarly absent in Africa. Taking cues from the multiple secularities and global religious history approaches, the article uses global entanglements as a critical analytical tool to investigate the formation of our present, shared conditions, without essentializing cultural European/African differences. The core question is: Why, how and under which circumstances do people adapt global regimes of secularity, in this case particularly: global debates on religion and science? The article analyzes three lecture-transcripts, delivered by the West African intellectual John Augustus Abayomi Cole and printed in the West African newspaper Lagos Standard. In the context of Christian intellectuals in late nineteenth century West Africa, these lectures discussed African religion as congruent with science. This argument was possible through Abayomi Cole’s adaptation of esotericism, specifically its claim to true religion and science. Thereby, Abayomi Cole tried to negotiate independence from European missionary oversight.
Forty Years of Cooperation in South Asia: A Legal Appraisal of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (saarc)
Authors: Tino Elisa
Published: August 2024

Last August marked the 40th anniversary of the start of interstate cooperation in South Asia which has been characterised by few lights and many shadows over the years. saarc has not been able to smooth out tensions between its Member States, rather it has fallen victim to them, nor has it contributed realistically to the economic and social development of the region. This paper aims to offer an in-depth analysis of saarc in a legal perspective. In particular, its Charter, its secondary law, and its practice will be investigated through the lens of the theoretical framework of international institutional law in order to ascertain if saarc meets the requirements that are commonly believed to characterise international organizations.
Constructing African Union Law and Rethinking Supranationalism in African Integration: What Lessons from the European Union?
Authors: Maluwa Tiyanjana
Published: August 2024

This Article examines the development and scope of African Union (AU) law and its role as a facilitator of and contributor to regional integration in Africa. The Article addresses several interlinked questions relating, but not limited, to the sources and foundations of AU law, the role of AU policy organs in the making of AU law, the extent to which EU law presents a comparative framework or useful precedent for analysing and understanding AU law, and the role of supranationalism in the economic and political integration of its member states and in the development of AU law. The Article argues that it is necessary to amend the AU Constitutive Act and other relevant AU legal instruments to enhance the supranational authority and legislative powers of the AU. It concludes that AU supranationalism needs to be rethought, but it need not uncritically mimic the EU’s approach to supranationalism in every respect.
‘You’re in or You’re out:’ Ethos of Change in the Lives of De-radicalized Youth in the Kenyan Urban Margins
Authors: Badurdeen Fathima A. , Ndenyele Wilson O.
Published: August 2024

Notoriously placed, ghettos and slums are perceived as locations for violence, drug abuse, violent gang operations, and other vices. In Kenya, the origin of violent radicalization and extremism has centered on urban margins, some of which are characterized as ghettos or slums due to the complex dynamics of communal interactions and spatial settings. This study draws on ethnographic data to analyze the lives of youth in two urban margins of Kenya whose lived realities were tied to their radicalization, deradicalization, engagement, and disengagement in violent extremism for the Al-Shabaab network. Using empirical data, the article probes the central research question: How do youth make meanings of violent radicalization, de-radicalization, engagement, and disengagement from their lived realities of these urban margins? A critical empirical assessment of this new ethos of change as a result of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) and development actors’ work in these urban margins reveals a continuum of mixed reactions from ‘feeling good’ to ‘feeling worse’ as young people grapple with new identities, new stigmas, and new realities in reintegrating back into their communities.
A Provincial Legacy of Autocracy: Shandong’s Luoyuan Academy in and beyond the Yongzheng Reign
Authors: Knorr Daniel
Published: August 2024

In 1733 the Yongzheng emperor ordered the establishment of academies (shuyuan 書院) in every provincial capital. To a certain extent, this edict constituted an intellectual component of the emperor’s autocratic approach to governance, as it facilitated greater control over a type of educational institution that had in the past operated with autonomy from the court. Using the history of Shandong’s Luoyuan Academy as a case study, this article demonstrates how the management of academies and hence the provincial operation of autocracy hinged on the participation of a range of local actors. Rather than simply restricting local agency, this characteristic Yongzheng policy depended on it. This perspective raises questions about the degree of rupture between eighteenth- and nineteenth-century state-building and demonstrates a need to define concepts like ‘autocracy’ and ‘centralization’ more precisely with reference to Yongzheng-era governance.
Sustainable Memory Ecology, Entangled Environments, and Multimateriality in a Post-Digital Age: A Case Study of MemoryBytes
Authors: Parui Avishek , Raj Merin Simi
Published: August 2024

This article examines the interdisciplinary and epistemological possibilities in memory studies amidst the complex systems of sustainable memory ecology, entangled environments, and multimateriality prevalent in our post-digital age. This study situates the ontology and experience of memory through post-digital and posthumanist frameworks whereby the human/non-human and embedded/extended emerge as environmental entanglements that are part of everyday experiential and ecological realities which are often already augmented in quality. Likewise, we unpack the idea of materiality in the contemporary world and posit that a theory of multimateriality – asymmetric compounds of constructs, components, and affects – illustrates the modality of post-digital memory networks. Subsequently, the article attempts to offer a conceptual framework that draws on cognitive theory’s 4E model of cognition – embedded, embodied, extended, enactive – and a memory-ecology which is emergent as well as connective in quality. The key themes of this study are as follows:

How can the concept of sustainable memory ecology correspond to interdisciplinary interpretative possibilities of preservation and reconstruction in a post-digital world?

How can memory studies connect with cognitive theory to offer an original collaborative and epistemic apparatus using embodied, embedded, extended, and enactive engagements with environment and materiality in post-digital conditions?

How do such collaborations anticipate the future of memory through a new order of post-digital memory ecology?

Through its theoretical and conceptual convergences, and with a case study of the 2022 Augmented-Reality (ar) App and phygital exhibition MemoryBytes, our article offers an original framework for memory studies’ interdisciplinary engagements with the changing notions of ecology, sustainability, and materiality in today’s post-digital world.
Peniophora salaccae sp. nov. (Russulales, Basidiomycota), a snake fruit (Salacca zalacca) pathogen from southern Thailand
Authors: BOUKAEW SAWAI , KUMLA JATURONG , SUWANNARACH NAKARIN
Published: August 2024

The genus Peniophora is known to be distributed from boreal to tropical regions worldwide. During surveys of plant diseases in southern Thailand in 2022 and 2023, two specimens of rotten snake fruits (Salacca zalacca) were collected. The new species, P. salaccae, is described based on collections with morphological and molecular data. This species is characterized by orange-gray to brownish-orange basidiomes, simple-septate generative hyphae, brown lamprocystidia, subclavate to subcylindrical gloeocystidia, and subtriangular basidiospores. It can be distinguished from P. trigonosperma by its larger basidiospores and shorter lamprocystidia. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nrLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) confirmed the position of the new species within the genus Peniophora. The full description, color photographs, illustrations, and the phylogenetic tree showing the position of P. salaccae are provided. Additionally, pathogenicity tests showed that P. salaccae could infect snake fruits, which developed the same symptoms under artificial inoculation conditions as those observed in the field.
Aspidistra tenuistyla and A. luteo-rubra (Asparagaceae, Convallarioideae), a new tubuliflorous species from northern Vietnam
Authors: CHU QUAN NGOC , NGUYEN CUONG HUU , AVERYANOV LEONID V. , DAI HAI VO , NGUYEN KHANG SINH , MAISAK TATIANA , KRUPKINA LUDMILA I.
Published: August 2024

This study establishes two new species, Aspidistra tenuistyla and A. luteo-rubra (Asparagaceae, Convallarioideae). The first one, Aspidistra tenuistyla, is described here as a new species for science. It was discovered in the lowland limestone area of Ba Be National Park (Bac Kan Province). A detailed illustrated description of this species, along with data on its distribution, ecology, and phenology, is provided. According to the criteria of the IUCN Red List, the conservation status of A. tenuistyla is estimated as Near Threatened (NT). Additionally, the species rank is proposed for A. luteo-rubra, the plant regarded earlier as a variety (A. lutea var. luteo-rubra). It was found in the limestone area of Ngoc Son-Ngo Luong Nature Reserve (Hoa Binh Province). Both plants belong to the group of species with narrowly tubular flowers and are most closely related to A. lutea. A detailed, illustrated comparison of A. tenuistyla, A. lutea, and A. luteo-rubra is additionally presented. All these species are endemic to the limestone regions of northern Vietnam.
Research on Safety Control Technology for Dual Robots Based on Kinematic Models
Authors: Chen Qiang
Published: August 2024

The industrial robots play an important role in modern industrial manufacturing processes, and their applications are becoming increasingly widespread, greatly improving manufacturing efficiency and significantly enhancing the digitalization level of the manufacturing industry. Therefore, achieving safe control of multi robot collaborative work is of great significance for the stable and efficient operation of robot systems. This article proposes a dual robot safety control technology based on the kinematic model of industrial robots. Firstly, a mathematical model of the kinematic space of the dual robots is constructed using D-H parameters; Then, use recursive traversal algorithm to calculate the minimum distance between each joint arm of the two robots in real time; Finally, the minimum distance between each joint arm will be calculated and compared with the set safety threshold to achieve real-time assessment and control of collision risk during the movement of the dual robots. A dual robot safety control testing platform was built using two KUKA industrial robots, integrated control software was developed, and relevant algorithms were validated. Through experiments, it was verified that this method can evaluate the collision risk of dual robots in real time during motion and effectively control the collision risk during the motion of dual robots.
Telehealth Support System Using Wireless Technologies: The Case of Ethiopia
Authors: Lefebo Tsgaynesh , Libsie Mulugeta
Published: August 2024

The explosion of wireless technologies including wireless networks, large flat displays, sensors, personal digital assistants (PDA), smartphones, and embedded devices are playing a great role in the communication and service delivery of daily life. Nowadays it is possible to extend different applications such as providing voice calls, remote consultation, remote discussion, remote health service, access other applications, and so on wirelessly to anywhere in the world over short or long distances. In consideration of the various advantages of wireless technologies, in this work, the aim to explore the use of wireless technologies in the health domain for remote health domain. The main objective of this work is to design and implement a telehealth support system that helps improve the quality of the existing health system. The system allows health professionals to have adequate access to patients, to medical information, to give health-related services remotely, remote consultation, and remote education to patients/people anywhere and anytime. This telehealth support system is developed using a Java programming language with different editions for different purposes such as J2EE to develop both server-side and client-side applications of the system, JSP to design the web interface for the server-side application of the system, J2ME CLDC/MIDP platform which ships with J2ME wireless toolkit emulator to develop and demonstrate MIDlet applications on the target small computing device, and MySQL database for data storage management.
Phytosociological Analysis and Vegetation Structure in Tehsil Timergara, District Dir Lower, Pakistan: A Comprehensive Study of Five Distinct Plant Communities
Authors: Subhan Ghani , Iqbal Zafar , Mateen Abdul , Akbar Maaz , Ullah Faseeh
Published: August 2024

Biodiversity is the variation of life on the soil surface and includes differences in biotic structure at every level, from genes to species and vary to every ecological system. This study explores the phytosociology and vegetation structure in Tehsil Timergara, District Dir Lower, Pakistan, focusing on five distinct plant communities. The investigation utilizes TWINSPAN classification to categorize these communities, revealing their composition, dominance, and ecological attributes. The identified communities include Monotheca-Persicaria-Nerium (MPN), Punica-Indigofera-Isodon (PII), Myrtus-Dodonaea-Origanum (MDO), Berberis-Cornus-Teucrium (BCT), and Dodonaea-Salix-Pennisetum (DSP). The dominance of Megaphanerophytes and the prevalence of Microphylls in leaf spectra highlight the ecological dynamics of the region. In each community, the study examines the importance of values, and soil characteristics, providing insights into the environmental conditions influencing plant distributions. Additionally, the study calculates similarity and dissimilarity indices between these communities, revealing the degrees of overlap and uniqueness. The highest similarity is observed between Myrtus-Dodonaea-Origanum and Dodonaea-Salix-Pennisetum communities. This comprehensive phytosociological analysis enhances our understanding of the vegetation dynamics in Tehsil Timergara, offering valuable insights for conservation and sustainable management. The findings underscore the significance of considering multiple plant communities to formulate effective environmental management strategies.
An Investigation into English Language Teachers’ Practices and Challenges of Alternative Assessment: Selected Teacher Education Colleges in Focus
Authors: Kassa Habtamu , Arficho Zeleke , Getachew Eskinder , Meressa Aregay
Published: August 2024

Alternative assessment has got an important place especially in education due to the belief of education should focus on students’ totality cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills in order to produce students that are balanced physically, emotionally and intellectually. This study was aimed at examining education college English language teachers’ practices and challenges of alternative assessment with reference to Hawassa, Hossana, and Arba Minch Colleges of Teacher Education. To this end, a descriptive design with a mixed approach was employed. A questionnaire with five-point scales was used and data were collected from 56 teachers. SPSS version 23 was employed to compute descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation). A semi-structured interview was also conducted with 6 teachers randomly selected from among those teachers who had filled in the questionnaire and the data were thematized and analyzed qualitatively. The results of questionnaire reveal that the practice of alternative assessment was not effective and efficient due to different challenges (students related challenges, teachers related challenges, characteristics of alternative assessment related challenges and resource related challenges. It is also found that data from interview witnessed that alternative assessment was not practiced effectively due to the aforementioned challenges.
Evaluation of Irish Potato Genotypes (Solanum tuberosum L.) Against Diseases for Adaptability in Sierra Leone
Authors: Samura Alusaine , Amara Vandi , Samura Fatmata
Published: August 2024

Irish Potato is an emerging crop of high economic value in Sierra Leone. Cultivation of the crop is limited, and farmers are faced with numerous problems in the production of the crop. This research was done to identify diseases resistant adaptable sweet potato genotypes under Sierra Leone condition. Six Irish potato genotypes collected from the Futa Jalon highlands in Guinea were evaluated in Kabala and Njala during 2013 and 2014 cropping season. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data was collected on agronomic parameters as wells as pest and disease. Data was analyzed using analysis of variance. Mean comparison was done using least significant difference (LSD) at 5% probability. Findings revealed that Kabala exhibited higher field establishment rates compared to Moyamba, with Spunta, Arnova, Nicola, and Mandola displaying significantly higher establishment percentages. Similarly, Spunta consistently exhibited the largest leaf area, vine length and highest plant vigor scores across locations. While all genotypes were susceptible to Potato Virus Disease (PVD), bacterial blight, and late blight, Spunta displayed the highest resistance to these diseases. Variations in tuber number and weight per plant were observed, with Spunta (4.4 and 3.6 t/ha) and Mandola (3.5 t/ha) showing the highest yields at both locations respectively. Notably, Spunta consistently outperformed other genotypes in terms of yield across both locations. These findings underscore the importance of genotype selection tailored to local conditions and the need for disease management strategies to enhance potato production and food security in Sierra Leone. Further research focusing on breeding programs targeting disease resistance and yield optimization is warranted to address the productivity challenges faced by Irish potato cultivation in Sierra Leone.
When Prominence Overrules EminenceSubsidization of the Cultural Sectors in the Netherlands
Authors: Dun Michelle , Koolma Rik
Published: August 2024

What processes determine the allocation of state subsidies to a selection of cultural and artistic organizations? In the case of the Dutch cultural basic infrastructure (BIS) two main criteria are issued, namely quality and reputation. In this article, no attempt is made to define measures for artistic quality and reputation. Instead, it is observed by which criteria decision makers, public media, and artistic leaders refer to these concepts. The way in which the selection and granting are performed shows striking similarity with processes described in the literature. First, the theory of social comparison asserts that people in a shared activity compare opinions and abilities in a strife for growth. When technical constraints and limits impede the progress in ability, effort and attention shift to opinions on abilities of the members. In this social dimension, growth is more easily attained. This decoupling results into stagnation and inferior learning processes. Second, in an implicit elaboration of the social comparison theory, a model is proposed in which perceived quality and prominence determine which organization will receive price premiums. Perceived quality is indicated by the quality of the inputs and productivity assets. Prominence origins from media rankings and elicited preferences of intermediary organizations and affiliation with high-status actors. Prominence has more bearing in social processes in the institutional field than on quality indicators. This model provides a base for reputation bias among stakeholders of organizations. The theoretical approaches have been operationalized into an analytical framework. The framework appears to offer a powerful and accurate instrument to describe and explain courses of action and outcomes in Dutch cultural sectors. In discussion, it is questioned if it is wise to base a subsidization policy on social comparison. The strive for prominence in the institutional fields tends to overrule the search for quality and eminence. It is recommended to reconsider social comparison processes by reduction of the arbitrariness in the performance assessment and evaluation. In this respect, promising and high-quality performers are supported in their access to large audiences. It is proposed that the framework can be applied in all situations where resources and performance opportunities are allocated to a selection of executing actors. Choices will be based on a mix of past and future performances. The situations suited for application may vary from philanthropy to hard core and non-profit sectors to private business industries.
A Closer Look: Environmental Stressors and Their Effects on the Ocular Surface
Authors: Sah Manish , Rajak Sumi , Jaiswal Bikash , Madai Melina
Published: August 2024

Environmental variables have a considerable impact on the ocular surface, both structurally and functionally. The cornea, conjunctiva, and tear film form the ocular surface, which is essential for preserving visual clarity and comfort. UV radiation, air pollutants, allergens, and climatic changes can all upset the delicate balance of the ocular surface ecosystem, resulting in disorders such as dry eye disease (DED), allergic conjunctivitis, and photokeratitis. UV radiation is a well-documented environmental threat that can induce eye surface damage, both acute and chronic. Fine and ultrafine particles can get into the tear film and conjunctiva, producing oxidative stress and inflammation. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander cause allergic conjunctivitis, which is the most prevalent allergic eye illness. Climate variables such as temperature, humidity, and wind all have a substantial influence on ocular surface health. Understanding these environmental consequences necessitates a multidisciplinary strategy that combines ophthalmology, environmental science, and public health. Clinicians can measure the effect of environmental exposures on ocular health using diagnostic procedures such as tear film analysis, ocular surface imaging, and biomarker studies. Management options include preventative measures and therapies that are customized to individual illnesses. Preventive measures include wearing protective eyewear to shield against UV radiation and pollutants, using air purifiers to reduce indoor allergens, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. Emerging research focuses on elucidating molecular mechanisms underlying environmental-induced ocular surface disorders and developing novel therapies to mitigate their effects. By advancing knowledge in this field, we aim to enhance preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals affected by environmental-related ocular surface conditions.
Exploring AI Applications in Occupational Safety: A Bibliometric Perspective on Accident Prevention
Authors: Silva Alexandre , Dutra Frederico , Corrêa Fábio , Faria Vinícius
Published: August 2024

Occupational accidents that happen in the world of work have attracted, over time, the concern of how to implement preventive measures to avoid them. The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that 2 million people die worldwide each year from work-related causes. In Brazil, in the year 2022, there were 1,828 accidents involving electricity resulting in 592 deaths. A solution to improve this process is the use of available technology, especially with the modernization brought about by the so-called 4th Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0, This article aims to present a bibliometric research, identifying the main publications, authors, universities, countries and keywords that address the applications of artificial intelligence in work safety, with a focus on accident prevention. Data were collected from the Web of Science database, using the keywords (“artificial intelligence”) AND (workplace OR “occupation health and safety” OR “accident prevention”). Data interpretation was carried out through performance analysis, based on WoS reports; and scientific mapping, using the VOSviewer software. 272 articles were found that were analyzed and composed the research. It was evident that the subject of artificial intelligence applied to work safety is still little explored, however, from 2020 onwards, there was a significant increase in scientific publications. As proposal for future studies, suggests conducting research using alternative keywords, as well as searching various databases to try to find new articles that address the topic.
Foundations and Applications in Political Theory: An Analytical Study
Authors: Amro Azzam
Published: August 2024

This study explores the practical applications of political theory, focusing on how fundamental principles are translated into real political actions within governance and decision-making contexts. The first section addresses the identification of core principles such as democracy, justice, equality, sovereignty, legitimacy, and rights, which serve as a theoretical framework for political systems and policy formulation. Each principle is examined in depth, highlighting its significance in shaping governance and social order. For instance, democracy emphasizes citizen participation and accountability, while justice relates to fairness and equitable distribution of resources. Various political scenarios where these principles are applied are discussed, including legislative debates, policy-making processes, electoral campaigns, diplomatic negotiations, and judicial rulings. Each scenario illustrates the practical implications of political theories, demonstrating how lawmakers, policymakers, and diplomats engage with these concepts to address societal issues, Furthermore, the study emphasizes the necessity of considering stakeholders' perspectives, including government officials, political parties, civil society organizations, interest groups, and citizens, in evaluating the effectiveness of political actions. Through a critical analysis of these applications, the study assesses the outcomes of political decisions and governance practices, focusing on their alignment with democratic values and the protection of individual rights. It also addresses challenges such as institutional barriers, conflicting interests, and resource constraints that hinder the realization of political ideals. Ultimately, the study offers recommendations to enhance the significance of political theory in contemporary political discourse, advocating for collaborative efforts between theorists and practitioners to ensure that theoretical ideas inform practical policymaking. This study underscores the vital role of political theory in understanding and addressing current political challenges, contributing to enlightened governance and social progress.