bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myelin sheaths can act as compact temporary oxygen storage units as modeled by an electrical RC circuit model
Authors: Vervust Wouter , Witschas Katja , Leybaert Luc , Ghysels An
Published: August 2024

Oxygen is a crucial component in cellular energy metabolism, particularly in the brain where neurons consume the majority of energy produced via mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Phospholipid membranes have been found to store and transport oxygen efficiently in their hydrophobic core. This work investigates the kinetics of this storage, not only in a single membrane but also in membrane stacks as those found in myelinated axons in the nervous system. Using a diffusive model derived from molecular dynamics simulations, it is first demonstrate that oxygen storage within a phospholipid bilayer follows first-order kinetics. In consequence, we show how oxygen loading and unloading in a membrane is effectively modeled by an intuitive RC (resistor-capacitor) circuit analogy with a characteristic RC time constant.
Next, oxygen transport through myelin, comprising multiple bilayers, could be investigated by building a ladder network of RC circuits. Both the resistance (to oxygen transport) and the capacitance (for oxygen storage) scale linearly with the number of bilayers. Moreover, the characteristic time constant for oxygen storage scales quadratically with the myelin thickness, for instance enhancing the characteristic time constant from 30 ns for one 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) bilayer to 506 μs for 200 POPC bilayers. This enhancement gives myelin a buffering role: myelin sheaths act as spatially compact oxygen containers whose slower kinetics will dampen sudden oxygen changes.
Finally, oxygen transport from capillary to axonal mitochondria is modeled during increased oxygen consumption rates (OCRs) associated with neuronal activity. The model predicts that increased myelination results in longer sustainment of increased oxygen demand, supporting the idea that myelin sheaths may act as a buffer to oxygen fluctuations. The inability of considered configurations to sustain the increased OCRs for periods longer than a few hundred milliseconds hints the functional aspect of the dominant vascular response in restoring oxygen homeostasis following neuronal activation.
Depletion of splicing factor Cdc5 in Toxoplasma disrupts transcriptome integrity, induces stress-driven abortive bradyzoite formation, and triggers host protective immunity
Authors: Deshmukh Abhijit , Aswale Kalyani
Published: August 2024

Toxoplasma gondii, a member of the Apicomplexa phylum, has over 75% of genes with predicted introns; however, RNA splicing, a major source of post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression during stage transitions, is not fully understood. Here, we demonstrate the role of pre-mRNA splicing factor Cdc5 in maintaining transcriptome integrity by harmonizing interaction with spliceosomal proteins and snRNAs in Toxoplasma. TgCdc5 is an essential splicing factor, and its depletion generates significant alternative splicing with widespread changes in gene expression demonstrated by RNA-seq and proteomic studies. Loss of TgCdc5 leads to catastrophic effects on the parasites, concomitantly triggering a switch from rapidly replicating tachyzoite to dormant bradyzoite cysts in many parasites, likely due to the formation of misfolded protein aggregates caused by the translation of erroneous transcripts. However, these dormant state parasites could not survive due to lacking functional proteins for bradyzoite development. Remarkably, the knockdown of TgCdc5 in vivo protects mice from lethal infection, and the immune response generated during initial parasite exposure completely protects these mice from future infection and offers partial protection in vertical transmission. Overall, this study unveils a novel role of TgCdc5-mediated pre-mRNA splicing in governing Toxoplasma stage conversion, providing new insights into developmental stage gene regulation.
Systematic Literature Review of Meta-heuristic Algorithms and their Application in Procedural Content Generation (PCG) in the Context of Computer Games
Authors: Alyaseri Sana , Sinha Roopak , Nand Parma
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the use of metaheuristics and algorithms inspired by nat- ural processes to determine optimal solutions for procedural content generation (PCG) for the automatic creation of video game content. A systematic review of studies published between 2007 and 2023 was conducted to analyze the use of metaheuristics in PCG. This study explored various types of metaheuristics and common techniques employed. Genetic algorithms emerged as the dominant metaheuristic in PCG research. However, algorithm performance was influenced by parameters, problem complexity, and content objectives. Metaheuristics demon- strated potential for enhancing game design, player experience, and development efficiency. We discuss the advantages of metaheuristics in PCG, including en- hanced game design, improved player experience, and reduced development time and cost. However, challenges remain, such as developing better metrics for suc- cess and balancing the speed of solution finding with the solution quality. Finally, we propose future research directions, including the development of new algo- rithms, the integration of different approaches, and consideration of the ethical and social implications of PCG.
Revitalizing English Language Teaching: Exploring Advanced Approaches and Innovative Analytical Strategies for Optimal Language Learning Outcomes
Authors: Binu
Published: August 2024

This study observes English language teaching (ELT) in depth, examining contemporary methods and their impact on language acquisition. Through an in-depth analysis of teaching strategies, the study identifies effective strategies for improving language skills among student populations. The findings contribute valuable insights for the discourse in adapting ELT practices to enhance language learning outcomes. This study presents an improved analytical approach using a new filtering method in text analysis. Taking advantage of enhanced bidirectional encoder representations from transformer (E-BERT) and assimilated N-gram method (ANA), our study presents deep feature fusion method and optimal feature selection using weighted mean of vector optimization integrating a capsule network suitable for text classification, which performs well in capturing complex hierarchical relationships in textual data. The results show that this improved method works well, and show that using the Sentence Embedding’s dataset in Python tool use, it can achieve an impressive accuracy of 98.9%. Using other techniques, including feature extraction and classification, our approach demonstrates the effectiveness of Python as a powerful tool to achieve high performance in sentence-level tasks.
The oceanic physical injection pump of particulate organic carbon
Authors: Bellacicco Marco , Marullo Salvatore , dall'Olmo Giorgio , Iudicone Daniele , Nardelli Bruno Buongiorno
Published: August 2024

The contribution of the ocean biological carbon pump to the export of organic carbon at depth has predominantly been assessed by considering sinking particulate matter and vertically migrating organisms. Despite growing recognition of the importance of dynamical pathways that export carbon through upper ocean mixing and advection, observation-based estimates of their global impact are still lacking. In this study, we leverage a 4D data-driven time series (1997-2018) of particulate organic carbon concentration (POC) and ocean circulation to quantify the physical injection pump. We dissect the roles of entrainment and horizontal/vertical advection across mesoscale to large scales. Our findings indicate that, on average, the physical injection pump exports 0.086±0.030 Pg POC yr⁻¹. This value diminishes to less than one-third when using climatological POC values instead of weekly estimates, highlighting the critical coupling between the POC annual cycle and upper layer dynamics in determining net export. Observed interannual variations are linked to a linear combination of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation and Southern Annular Mode, suggesting a dynamic connection to intermediate/mode water-mass formation in the Southern Ocean.
Hans Jacob : Bibliographie
Authors: Müller Olaf
Published: August 2024

Die Bibliographie wurde von Olaf Müller 2017 erstellt, einzelne Einträge wurden von der UeLEX-Redaktion 2022 und 2024 mit dem DNB-Katalog abgeglichen.
An algorithm to parallelise parton showers on a GPU
Authors: Seymour Michael H. , Sule Siddharth
Published: August 2024

The Single Instruction, Multiple Thread (SIMT) paradigm of GPU programming does not support the branching nature of a parton shower algorithm by definition. However, modern GPUs are designed to schedule threads with diverging processes independently, allowing them to handle such branches. With regular thread synchronisation and careful treatment of the individual steps, one can simulate a parton shower on a GPU. We present a Sudakov veto algorithm designed to simulate parton branching on multiple events in parallel. We also release a CUDA C++ program that generates matrix elements, showers partons and computes jet rates and event shapes for LEP at 91.2 GeV on a GPU. To benchmark its performance, we also provide a near-identical C++ program designed to simulate events serially on a CPU. While the consequences of branching are not absent, we demonstrate that a GPU can provide the throughput of a many-core CPU. As an example, we show that the time taken to shower 10^6106 events on one NVIDIA TESLA V100 GPU is equivalent to that of 295 Intel Xeon E5-2620 CPU cores.
Assessing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and non-pharmaceutical interventions on Bursa Malaysia KLCI Index using GARCH-M (1,1) models
Authors: Aldeen Kassem Al-alawnh Noor , Shah Habibullah Muzafar , Marei Ahmad , Mowafaq Alshdaifat Sajead
Published: August 2024

This study aims to explore the impact of coronavirus pandemic-related variables and non-pharmaceutical interventions on fluctuations in the Malaysian stock market during the period from January 7, 2020, to March 31, 2021. By employing GARCH-M (1,1) family models (GARCH-M, EGARCH-M, and PGARCH-M), the study seeks to understand the intricate dynamics of market volatility amidst the pandemic and associated interventions. The findings suggest that while past market volatility and conditional variance continue to influence current market fluctuations, their effects have diminished over time during the study period. Additionally, the EGARCH-M (1,1) model reveals a leverage effect, indicating increased market volatility following negative news compared to positive news. Interestingly, the EGARCH-M (1,1) model emerges as the optimal choice for accurately capturing data dynamics. Conversely, the PGARCH-M (1,1) model does not exhibit a statistically significant leverage effect. These insights contribute to a better understanding of market behavior during crises, informing future research and risk management strategies.
AcknowledgmentThe authors are grateful to the Middle East University, Amman, Jordan, for the full financial support granted to this research paper.
Como pais e professores avaliam um almanaque sobre educação sexual para estudantes do ensino básico?
Authors: Pavan Maria Valéria , Sousa Rafaella de Almeida , Tagnin Luisa Hercowitz , Bertonha Luiza Lista , Sousa Rebeca da Silva , Niero Helena Boldrini , Almeida Fernando Antonio de
Published: August 2024

Este estudo é parte de um projeto de extensão de um curso de medicina, no interior do estado de São Paulo, destinado a estimular a educação sexual, prevenir a gravidez e promover a saúde na adolescência. Nele, estudantes de medicina trabalham com alunos do ensino fundamental e médio de escolas públicas. As atividades interativas com os adolescentes incluem rodas de conversas, oficinas e teatralizações. Os estudantes de medicina desenvolveram um almanaque sobre educação sexual para ser utilizado pelos estudantes do ensino básico que auxilia os pais no processo de educação sexual. O almanaque interativo apresenta atividades recreativas educacionais, desenhos explicativos, história em quadrinhos, caça-palavras e informações técnicas. Objetivo: este estudo procurou avaliar, na visão dos pais/responsáveis e dos professores, a utilidade deste almanaque, a idade adequada para que seja utilizado pelos estudantes e coletar sugestões de como utilizá-lo e aperfeiçoá-lo. Métodos: estudo qualitativo em que os participantes responderam a um questionário semiestruturado aberto, emitiram suas opiniões sobre os termos, figuras e exemplos utilizados, se estavam adequados, opinaram sobre a idade mais apropriada para apresentá-lo aos estudantes e se poderia ajudar a aproximar pais e filhos na tarefa da educação sexual. Resultados: participaram 12 professores e 20 pais ou responsáveis. O almanaque foi aprovado por todos os professores e por 90% dos pais ou responsáveis, que fizeram comentários e sugestões para a utilização, na forma impressa ou virtual. Conclusão: professores e pais consideraram o almanaque um instrumento útil para aproximar pais e filhos na tarefa da educação sexual.
Ripening Trends of Vitis vinifera L. cv Sugrasixteen (SABLE SEEDLESS®) Table Grapes at Different Crop Loads and Bunch Sizes
Authors: Viljoen N. , Nieuwoudt H.H. , Young P. , Viljoen D.W. , Kidd M. , Avenant J. H. , Avenant Eunice
Published: August 2024

Crop load and bunch size manipulation are two prominent viticultural practices used in the production of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Sugrasixteen table grapes. However, their respective effects on berry ripening are unknown and were investigated in this study. A split-plot vineyard block design with three different crop loads (low, medium, and high) as the main treatments and two bunch size treatments (small and large) as the subplot factors were used. Weekly berry samples from veraison to harvest from each treatment were analysed for mass, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), and pH. Data mining established the ripening trends and explored the possibility of estimating optimal harvest dates using EC50 values. Results showed that berries of large bunches had higher average mass than small bunches during ripening. Increased crop loads resulted in berries with lower mass, TSS and TSS: TA ratio, and delayed berry ripening. Conversely, berries from the low crop load increased in mass and accumulated TSS faster during ripening than higher crop loads, reaching EC50 two to four days earlier with accumulation starting to slow down at higher values. EC50 could be used to estimate harvest dates for low to medium crop loads, but not for high crop loads. This study provides the first in-depth analysis of SABLE SEEDLESS® ripening trends concerning crop load and bunch size management. The results have implications for the grape’s overall eating quality. The statistical prediction of optimal harvest dates for lower crop loads could have practical benefits for the industry.
Diversity of Xanthomonas citri pv. viticola Populations on Grapevines from Different Locations in India
Authors: Bhosale S. , Saha S. , Patil N. , Nazzar A.
Published: August 2024

The bacterial leaf spot (BLS) disease caused by Xanthomonas citri pv. viticola (Xcv) is a menace to the production of grapes all over India. The maximum incidence of BLS has been reported in the Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh states of India. The symptoms are characterised by water-soaked, angular spots which later become necrotic on leaves. The present study was conducted to investigate the variability of 23 Xcv strains isolated from infected samples collected from Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu in India. Samples were collected on the basis of the characteristic symptoms. The diversity of all the isolates was assessed phenotypically and genetically. Phenotypic characters included the morphology of colonies, pathogenicity, hypersensitivity, and biochemical tests. Genetic characterisation was assessed using 16S rRNA sequencing. The results exhibited diversity with respect to various phenotypic aspects, like colony size, colour and opacity, the methyl red reduction test, enzyme production, pathogenicity, and a hypersensitivity reaction. The 16S rRNA sequencing showed a distribution of pathogens into two main clusters, which were further divided into nine sub-clusters. The salient findings on Xcv diversity in India will be useful to identify and characterise resistant germplasms against the disease. The nonuniform variability obtained among the isolates suggests that geographical location, climatic factors and the varieties were the driving forces for the evolution of the phytopathogens.
Geometrical Images in Lexis and Phraseology of Modern Russian Language
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Barsoukova-Sergeeva Olga M.
Published: August 2024

The article reviews geometrical objects as a factor forming the image system of modern Russian language, and explores the lexical units motivated by the concept of geometrical objects and phraseological units with geometrical components. This approach reveals multiplicity of geometrical objects participating in the process: there are three-dimensional (sphere, spatial angle, etc.), two-dimensional (circle), one-dimensional (line, etc.) and geometrical objects without dimension (point). When considering the language material the author uses the concept of the inner form of the word. Numerous examples are given demonstrating the process of geometric metaphorization. The analysis has shown that circle and spatial angle demonstrate high activity in forming lexical and phraseological units under consideration. Many of those geometrical images have an ancient origin. The article also touches on the issue of national characteristics of the perception of angles and circles. Some examples given by the author indicate the further development of language phenomena motivated by the concept of those geometrical objects in our time. Modern trends in the development of geometric imagery in the Russian language have been identified. The role of such geometric objects as a point, line, edge, etc. in the modern process of enriching the figurative structure of the Russian language is noted. The issues of lexical compatibility of the studied words are considered, the tendency of its change and expansion is traced. Modern trends of development of geometrical imagery in Russian language as a systematic process reflecting essential features of national view of the world are revealed.
Terms of Theory of Generations in Modern Russian Media Discourse and in Youth Speech
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Zhdanova Larisa A. , Vang Shuoying ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University
Published: August 2024

The article is devoted to Anglicisms-neologisms with the meaning of ‘generation’, which have become quite widespread in modern journalistic discourse and go back to the metalan guage of the “theory of generations” by W. Strauss and N. Howe (lexemes millennials, zoomers, boomers and others). The purpose of the article is to identify how well does native Russian speakers understand the meaning of these words, identify the most common neologisms that claim to be included in the Russian language, compare the data of the National Corpus of the Russian language (NCRL) with the results of a linguistic experiment, describe the meanings of the most common neologisms based on the data of the NCRL, contexts collected by the authors on other Internet resources and conducted linguistic experiments. The article presents the results of two linguistic surveys in which 70 undergraduate students of the humanitarian faculties of Lomonosov Moscow State University participated (35 respondents in each survey). The Survey-1 was aimed at identifying which terms of the “theory of generations” or its Russian adaptations, reproduced by the domestic media, are known to young educated native speakers of the Russian language and are used in speech by them. According to the results of the Survey-1, the words boomers, zoomers, millennials were selected for the Survey-2, which aims to determine the meanings attributed to these words by informants, to identify the level of active ownership. As a result of the Survey-2, a significant discrepancy was found with the quantitative data of the NCRL sample (according to the results of the Survey-2, the most commonly used and mastered word is zoomer, it is the least frequent in the NCRL sample). The word zoomer has the meaning of ‘new generation’, ‘digital generation’, enters into semantic opposition with other generational nominations, mainly with boomers, on the basis of ‘new/ old’, in a number of contexts this opposition is presented as a conflict of fathers and children. The results of linguistic experiments show that relatively common terms break away from the chronological boundaries set in the “theory of generations”: the words boomer and zoomer develop the meanings of ‘parents generation, older generation’ and ‘children’s generation, new generation’. The lexeme millennials is chronologically attributed due to the internal form, however, the generation boundaries indicated by respondents in the surveys differ significantly from those set in the “theory of generations”, the respondents’ answers show a change in meaning from “new generation” to “previous generation”.
Experimental study of the effect of the input and output key angles on the discharge coefficient and efficiency of the PKWs
Authors: Ashja Arvan Seyyed Erfan , Sadeghian Jalal , Norouzi Hadi
Published: August 2024

The results showed that the discharge coefficient (Cd), efficiency (Ra) and, consequently, the increase in the passing flow discharge have a direct relationship with the inclination angle of the input and output keys, and for this reason, the weir of the piano key weir (PKW) with an angle of 90 degrees has the highest Cd and Ra. An increase in the HT/P ration in all angles leads to a decrease in Cd and Ra. However, the decrease rate of these parameters is less for 15-degree angle compared to other threshold angles of the input and output keys. In the PKWs with different input and output key angles and at low HT/P ratios (total head to weir height), the dropping flow nappe needs aeration due to its bonding. However, by increasing this ratio to the submergence condition and transforming into a linear weir, the dropping flow nappe is aerated. At low ratios of HT/P, the dropping flow nappes do not interfere and the highest discharge coefficient and the highest weir efficiency are obtained. While by increasing the HT/P ratio, the dropping flow nappes start to collide and interfere with each other in the output keys, causing the flow rise and the weir submergence, and consequently, the discharge coefficient and the weir efficiency is decreased.
uso de fontes primárias e o ensino de História
Authors: Pinto Junior Gilson Mateus
Published: August 2024

Este artigo tem a proposta de trazer para a discurssão o uso de fontes primárias no ensino de História e como estas refletem a aprendizagem significativa dos alunos. Para tal, fez-se uso das abordagens metodologicas de tipo etnográfico, buscando compreender os alunos para além da mera descrição e contextualizá-los com o espaço escolar. Em termos de suporte teórico e bibliográfico, buscou-se o conceito de fonte histórica alicerçado especificamente nos estudos de Bloch (2001) e o de aprendizagem singnificativa (VYGOTSKI, 1976) como caminho para o desmonte da educação bancária (FREIRE, 2016). Ao fim, foi possível constatar que o uso de fontes possibilita ao aluno o melhor desenvolvimento da criticidade e da capacidade alteridade em relação aos estudos de outras sociedades.
FLUCTUACIÓN POBLACIONAL DE LAS PRINCIPALES PLAGAS Y DE SUS ENEMIGOS NATURALES EN ALGODÓN TANGÜIS EN LA MOLINA, LIMA, PERÚ
Authors: Cruz Laura , Vergara Clorinda , Sánchez Guillermo
Published: August 2024

Population fluctuations of Aphis gossypii, Chloridea virescens, Anthonomus vestitus, Dysdercus peruvianus and Pectinophora gossypiella, besides their natural enemies were studied during the entire phenological period of a Tangüis cotton crop at La Molina (Lima), using three sampling techniques: direct plant evaluation, plant shake falls and pitfall traps. A. gossypii was the most abundant pest, being more important in the vegetative development, followed by D. peruvianus and 1. gossypiella, both with greater importance in the fructification stage. Predatory insects and spiders were recorded during the whole crop period, where the most frequent were, in predatory insects Hippodamia convergens, Hyalochloria denticornis and Rhinacloa forticornis, and in spiders Misumenops sp. morpho 1, Zelotes laetus and Theridion volubile. Parasitoidism was low or scarce in most of the pests, highlighting Lysiphlebus testaceipes as A. gossypii parasitoid due to its abundance in the vegetative development of the cotton field.
Uso de Biomarcadores geoquímicos como traçadores de efluentes domésticos em cultivo de vieira Nodipecten nodosus
Authors: Soares Jéssica de Medeiros , Andrade Antoni Felipe Oliveira , Vasques Ricardo O’reilly , Rocha Bruno Cesar Silva , Nascimento Nívia de Mello , Machado Wilson Thadeu Valle , Bernardes Marcelo Corrêa
Published: August 2024

As vieiras são organismo amplamente cultivados e utilizados como bioindicadores da qualidade ambiental. As amostras analisadas são provenientes de uma fazenda marinha de Pectinicultura localizada na Ilha Rasa, município de Armação dos Búzios, litoral Norte do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, onde se suspeita haver uma possível contaminação por esgoto proveniente de um canal próximo ao local de cultivo. O nível de contaminação por esgoto foi verificado através da análise do esterol fecal coprostanol, assim como os alcanos foram analisados para caracterizar a origem da composição orgânica. Entre os alcanos, o Índice de Preferência Carbônica (IPC) demostrou predomínio biogênico com a presença de alcanos de origem terrestre evidenciado pela Razão Terrígeno e Aquático (RTA) sugerindo a entrada de material da lavagem dos solos, principalmente durante o período chuvoso no verão. No inverno, foram observados maiores valores de Mistura Complexa Não Resolvida (MCNR) de origem petrogênica e maior Proporção de alcanos de plantas aquáticas (Paq). Apesar das concentrações do esterol fecal atingir concentrações superiores a 5 μg.g-1 a razão diagnóstica [5β/(5α-ona+5β)] classificou o ambiente apenas “sob influência fecal” e a razão [5β/(5α+5β)] como sendo “sem contaminação”, provavelmente devido a diluição por massas d’água marinhas.
Increased Serum Levels of Inflammatory Markers and Promoter Hypermethylation of BRCA1 and BRCA2 in Oral Contraceptive Users
Authors: Sarabi Mostafa Moradi , Zal Fatemeh , Vahidfard Hooriya , Amin Zahra , Jamali Navid , Samare-Najaf Mohammad
Published: August 2024

Background:

Oral contraceptives (OCs) are widely used to prevent pregnancy, particularly
among reproductive-age women. Although undesired physiological consequences, such as increased
susceptibility to cancer, have been suggested, the exact molecular mechanism is not well
elucidated. Thereby, the current study aimed to assess the effects of OCs on the inflammatory
markers and BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene-specific DNA methylation in the serum of OCs-exposed
women.

Methods:

The current cross-sectional study involved 70 adult women, 35 of whom had used oral
contraceptive pills (OCP, 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol, and 0.15 mg levonorgestrel) to prevent pregnancy,
and 35 of whom had used condoms. The promoter methylation status of the two mentioned
tumor suppressor genes was assessed by methylation-specific PCR. Moreover, serum levels of
IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α were evaluated using the ELISA method.

Results:

The findings revealed a significant difference in cytokines between groups (p <0.001).
However, no significant differences were revealed regarding TNF-α between the two groups. Additionally,
the frequency of promoter hypermethylation of BRCA1 and BRCA2 in OCP users was
significantly higher (p <0.05).

Conclusion:

The current findings suggested that OCP usage could increase serum levels of inflammatory
markers and promote the hypermethylation of two suppressor genes. Hence, further
studies are encouraged to reveal the association between OCP usage and cancer through hypermethylation
of BRCA1 and BRCA2 and induction of inflammation.
Clinical Picture, Diagnosis, Management of NEC, and Effects of Probiotics on its Prevention: A Narrative Review
Authors: De Bernardo Giuseppe , Ziello Carla , Parisi Grazia , Vecchione Carolina , Fattorusso Valentina , Spadarella Simona , Giordano Maurizio , Buonocore Giuseppe , Perrone Serafina
Published: August 2024

:

Preterm newborns represent a population at risk of developing intestinal dysbiosis as
well as being predisposed to sepsis and Necrotizing Enterocolitis. Necrotizing Enterocolitis is a
condition burdened by many complications and mortality due to an alteration of the intestinal barrier,
an immaturity of the immune system, and intestinal dysbiosis. Low gestational age at birth,
low birth weight, and early use of antibiotics are other predisposing factors. Instead, breast milk
and probiotics are protective factors in providing intestinal homeostasis and microbiome regulation.
In this mini-review, we analysed the protective role of probiotics in the onset of Necrotizing
Enterocolitis in preterm populations.
3D-QSAR, Pharmacophore Modeling, ADMET and DFT Studies of Halogenated Conjugated Dienones as Potent MAO-B Inhibitors
Authors: Mathew Githa Elizabeth , Herrera-Acevedo Chonny , Scotti Marcus Tullius , Kumar Sunil , Berisha Avni , Kaya Savaş , Alfarraj Saleh , Ansari Mohammad Javed , Dhyani Archana , Sudevan Sachithra Thazhathuveedu , Kumar Mohan , Mathew Bijo
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

It has been reported that the extension of conjugation in chalcone
scaffolds considerably enhanced the potency, selectivity, reversibility, and competitive mode
of MAO-B inhibition. In this study, using the experimental results of IC50 values of fifteen halogenated
conjugated dienone derivatives (MK1-MK15) against MAO-B, we developed a 3DQSAR
model.

Methods:

Further, we created a 3D pharmacophore model in active compounds in the series.
The built model selected three variables (G2U, RDF115m, RDF155m) among the 653 AlvaDesc
molecular descriptors, with a r2 value of 0.87 and a Q2
cv for cross-validation equal to
0.82. The three variables were mostly associated with the direction of symmetry and the likelihood
of discovering massive atoms at great distances. The evaluated molecules exhibited a
good correlation between experimental and predicted data, indicating that the IC50 value of the
structure MK2 was related to the interatomic distances of 15.5 Å between bromine and chloro
substituents. Furthermore, the molecules in the series with the highest activity were those with
enhanced second component symmetry directional index from the 3D representation, which included
the structures MK5 and MK6.

Results:

Additionally, a pharmacophore hypothesis was developed and validated using the decoy
Schrodinger dataset, with an ROC score of 0.87 and an HHRR 1 fitness score that ranged
from 2.783 to 3.00. The MK series exhibited a significant blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability,
according to exploratory analyses and in silico projections, and almost all analogues
were expected to have strong BBB permeability.

Conclusion:

Further DFT research revealed that electrostatics were important in the interactions
with MAO-B.
Molecular Imaging of Melanoma VEGF-expressing Tumors through [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-Fab(Bevacizumab)
Authors: Camacho Ximena , Perroni Carolina , Alfaya Lucía , Cabrera Mirel , Tassano Marcos , García María Fernanda , Fernández Marcelo , Reyes Ana Laura , Paolino Andrea , Savio Eduardo , Cerecetto Hugo , Cabral Pablo , Gambini Juan Pablo
Published: August 2024

Background:

Angiogenesis is a process that many tumors depend on for growth, development, and
metastasis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the major players in tumor angiogenesis in several
tumor types, including melanoma. VEGF inhibition is achieved by bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal
antibody that binds with high affinity to VEGF and prevents its function. In order to successfully enable in vivo
VEGF expression imaging in a murine melanoma model, we previously labeled bevacizumab with [99mTc]Tc. We
observed that this was feasible, but it had prolonged blood circulation and delayed tumor uptake.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to develop a radiolabeled Fab bevacizumab fragment, [99mTc]Tc-HYNICFab(
bevacizumab), for non-invasive in vivo VEGF expression molecular imaging.

Methods:

Flow cytometry was used to examine VEGF presence in the murine melanoma cell line (B16-F10).
Bevacizumab was digested with papain for six hours at 37°C to produce Fab(bevacizumab), which was then
conjugated to NHS-HYNIC-Tfa for radiolabeling with [99mTc]Tc. Stability and binding affinity assays were also
evaluated. Biodistribution and single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT)
were performed at 1, 3, and 6 h (n = 4) after injection of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-Fab(Bevacizumab) in normal and
B16-F10 tumor-bearing C57Bl/6J mice.

Results:

Using flow cytometry, it was shown that the B16-F10 murine melanoma cell line has intracellular VEGF
expression. Papain incubation resulted in the complete digestion of bevacizumab with good purity and homogeneity.
The radiolabeling yield of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-Fab(bevacizumab) was 85.00 ± 6.06%, with a specific activity
of 291.87 ± 18.84 MBq/mg (n=3), showing in vitro stability. Binding assays demonstrated significant intracellular
in vitro VEGF expression. Fast blood clearance and high kidney and tumor uptake were observed in biodistribution
and SPECT/CT studies.

Conclusions:

We present the development and evaluation of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-Fab(bevacizumab), a novel molecular
VEGF expression imaging agent that may be used for precision medicine in melanoma and potentially in
other VEGF-expressing tumors.
Lupiwighteone as an Antitumor Agent Reverses Multidrug Resistance in K562/ADR Cells by Regulating Cellular Prion Protein-Oct4 Axis
Authors: Hu Kun , Zhang Jinling , Zhang Yanan , Wu Xinyuan , Jin Xueyi , Mao Shuxia , Ding Pengcheng , Wu Shaojun , Ren Jie
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

One of the many reasons for cancer treatment failure and recurrence is acquired Multidrug
Resistance (MDR). Overcoming cancer drug resistance has been the focus of researchers' studies. Cellular
prion protein (PrPC) is a glycophosphatidylinositol-anchored cell-surface glycoprotein that has been implicated in
tumor behavior, including proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis, and chemoresistance.

Methods:

Lupiwighteone (Lup), a natural isoflavone found in the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, has anticancer activity
against prostate cancer cells, neuroblastoma cells, and human breast cancer cells. However, its pharmacological
effects and mechanisms in drug-resistant cancer cells have not been reported. In this study, we used an adriamycin-
resistant leukemia K562 cell model, and for the first time, we investigated the reversal effect of Lup on
its MDR and the potential mechanism.

Results:

The results indicated that Lup could induce apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway while upregulating
the expression of related apoptotic proteins, such as Bax, Cyto C, Caspase-3, and PARP1. Autophagy is
commonly recognized as a protective mechanism that mediates MDR during treatment. We found that Lup induced
cellular autophagy while upregulating the expression of related autophagy proteins such as Beclin 1 and
LC3 II.

Conclusion:

In addition, when Lup was combined with adriamycin, Lup decreased the IC50 of K562/ADR cells;
moreover, Lup can downregulate the expression of drug-resistant proteins, suggesting that Lup can reverse drug
resistance. Further studies have shown that Lup can downregulate the expression of PrPC-PI3K-Akt axis proteins
and PrPC-Oct4 axis proteins. This study demonstrated that Lup has the potential to inhibit the proliferation of
K562/ADR cells by targeting PrPC, and further study of the signaling pathway associated with PrPC may provide
the experimental basis for the treatment of drug-resistant leukemia.
Assembling, Computational and Experimental Insight of Self-assembled Carbo Benzyl oxy-L-Alanyl-L-Valine Benzyl Ester: A Novel Free Radical Scavenger and Photo Therapeutic Nano Molecular System
Authors: Sivanathan M. , Naveenkumar R. , Karthikeyan B.
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

This work investigates the synthesis of self-assembled novel carbo benzyl oxy - L - alanyl - L - valine benzyl ester (CBAVBE).

Methods:

Thorough studies of the morphology, optical, and structural investigations by UV-Visible, UV-DRS, FT-IR, FT-Raman, HR-TEM, and FE-SEM
are used to characterize the self-assembled CBAVBE and computational studies also investigated. The anti-oxidant capability of carbo benzyl oxy
- L - alanyl - L - valine benzyl ester is evaluated after self-assembly.

Results:

FT-IR and Raman analysis have proven that specific chemical bonds exist in the self-assembled CBAVBE. FE-SEM analysis clearly confirms that
the CBAVBE is fibrous in nature, and the collected images clearly show the CBA assembly VBE to be well aggregated. The docking analysis
suggests that the CBAVBE molecule has inhibitory action against brain and lung cancer protein but biological study is needed to validate the
results. An antioxidant study reveals the potential of the selected CBAVE as a notable biomarker.

Conclusion:

A new class of self-assembled peptide nano self-assemblies have been marked as a discovery that could be used to treat a variety of diseases.
Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Treatment Revolution: Exploring the Latest Nano Lipid Drug Delivery Innovations
Authors: Badarinadh Kallepalli Surya , Chauhan Shikha Baghel , Singh Indu
Published: August 2024

:

This review article aims to explore recent advancements in the treatment of Cutaneous
Lupus Erythematosus (CLE) by focusing on the innovative use of Nano Lipid Carrier formulations.
It assesses the efficacy, safety, and potential therapeutic benefits of these novel formulations in managing
CLE symptoms. A comprehensive search was conducted across various scientific databases,
including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar, to identify relevant studies, clinical trials, and
reviews pertaining to CLE treatment, particularly those involving various NLC formulations. Studies
were selected based on their relevance to CLE treatment, with a specific emphasis on recent innovations.
Data extraction involved gathering information on study design, intervention methods, outcomes,
and conclusions related to the efficacy and safety of novel formulations in managing CLE
symptoms. The synthesized data reveal promising outcomes associated with the use of NLC in treating
CLE. These formulations offer enhanced drug delivery, improved skin penetration, and targeted
therapy, resulting in better symptom management and reduced adverse effects compared to conventional
treatments. Various studies demonstrate the efficacy of NLC embedded in reducing inflammation,
controlling disease activity, and improving the quality of life for CLE patients. The latest advancements
in CLE treatment, using novel methods, present a significant revolution in managing this
chronic autoimmune skin condition. The reviewed literature highlights the potential of Nano lipid
carrier embedded hydrogel as a promising therapeutic approach for CLE, offering improved efficacy,
safety, and patient compliance. Further research and clinical trials are warranted to validate these
findings and establish NLC as a standard treatment modality for CLE.
Advances in Monazite Decomposition Technologies: Proposed Potential Direction for the Sodium Hydroxide Leaching Context
Authors: Thi Hoang Xuan , Nhuan Hoang , Tuyen Ngo Van , Anh Vuong Huu , Huu duc Nguyen
Published: August 2024

The current understanding and development of monazite decomposition
technology using sodium hydroxide are examined. Most previous assessments have
primarily focused on the post-leaching processing of monazite using sodium hydroxide,
including processing steps to produce the total rare earth oxide product. However,
the initial leaching process of monazite with alkali solution proves to be highly significant
in practice. It presents numerous problems, such as the requirement for fine
grinding of the ore down to below 45 microns, substantial alkali excess, and extended
reaction times to achieve the desired efficiency. These requirements result in increased
energy, chemical, and equipment costs. This article is focused on discussing the leaching
conditions of monazite with alkali solution based on published literature, the problems
associated with this process, the underlying reasons, newly proposed variations
such as sodium hydroxide leaching under pressure and sodium hydroxide leaching in a
heated ball mill, limitations of these variations, and unresolved issues. Furthermore,
the manuscript introduces a novel technique, high-intensity ultrasound, to support the
leaching process, which has been applied in technological cases. The discussion
delves into the mechanisms of high-intensity ultrasound and its applicability in the
monazite leaching process using sodium hydroxide.
ANALISIS KESESUAIAN LAHAN PERMUKIMAN DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN PENDEKATAN ANALYTICAL HIERARCHY PROCESS DI KELURAHAN KADEMANGAN KOTA TANGERANG SELATAN
Authors: Wulansari  , Akbar Rendy , Rachmat Hardi Taufick
Published: August 2024

Pertumbuhan ekonomi yang meningkat pada suatu wilayah menjadikan wilayah tersebut menjadi berkembang, baik dari segi kehidupan ekonominya maupun sosialnya. Kelurahan Kademangan merupakan salah satu kelurahan yang menjadi bagian penting bagi pertumbuhan perekonomian di kota Tangerang Selatan menjadikan wilayah tersebut semakin berkembang. Jumlah penduduk pada kelurahan Kademangan semakin bertambah yang membuat kebutuhan akan lahan semakin meningkat. Kebutuhan lahan yang meningkat menyebabkan terjadinya perubahan fungsi lahan menjadi lahan untuk permukiman mengakibatkan masih kerap di landa banjir dan longsor. Salah satu alasan penelitian ini dilakukan adalah terdapat beberapa titik dari kawasan permukiman yang sudah sesuai dengan Rencana Tata Ruang namun masih mengalami banjir dan longsor.  Penelitian ini di lakukan bertujuan untuk menganalisis kesesuaian lahan permukiman di kelurahan Kademangan menggunakan metode Analytic Hierarchy Proces dan Overlay dengan menggunakan 3 Variabel yaitu karakteristik lahan, sarana prasarana, dan tata ruang.
Análisis comparativo de las habilidades sociales en un contexto rural y urbano de Colombia.
Authors: Muñoz Rondón Tatiana Milena , Saavedra Barrera Geraldinne , Prada Neygel Julissa
Published: August 2024

Introducción: El siguiente artículo busca comparar las habilidades sociales en estudiantes de 6º, de dos colegios, uno ubicado en el área rural y otro en el área urbana de Santander (Colombia), con el fin de identificar el efecto del contexto en el desarrollo de competencias sociales; objetivo: comparar las habilidades sociales con instituciones, en dos contextos rurales y urbanos en la región de Santander; metodología: el método fue de corte cuantitativo y diseño comparativo. Los instrumentos que se utilizaron fueron: El cuestionario sociodemográfico y la Batería de Socialización BAS-3 la cual permite lograr un perfil de la conducta social en función de cinco dimensiones, (ansiedad social/ timidez, liderazgo, sinceridad, consideración con los demás, autocontrol en las relaciones sociales, retraimiento social). La muestra estuvo compuesta por un total de 93 participantes de dos instituciones educativas, una ubicada en la Mesa de los Santos (Rural) y la otra en Bucaramanga (Urbano). Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias significativas en las dimensiones de autocontrol, consideración con los demás y retraimiento social, ya que en los estudiantes del colegio rural mostraron mayor empatía y lectura de las necesidades de los otros, así como mayor autorregulación, así con menor retraimiento. Conclusiones: Se concluye que existen diferencias significativas en algunas habilidades sociales entre los dos colegios, lo cual muestra que hay que mejorar el desarrollo de estas competencias en el contexto educativo urbano. Hay seguir explorando que factores de los contextos afectan el desarrollo de estas.
The effects of raja banana (Musa acuminata) peel extract on body weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, and visceral fat mass in male rats with obesity
Authors: Devina Kezia Elian , Indarto Dono , Susilawati Tri Nugraha , Wiboworini Budiyanti
Published: August 2024

Background: Obesity is a risk factor for metabolic syndrome which can increase mortality. Obese sufferers often fail to lose body weight (BW) through non-pharmacological therapy. Obesity synthetic drugs can cause side effects, so natural ingredients are needed as alternative therapies.

Objectives: This study aims to determine the effect of raja banana peel extract (RBPE) on BW, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BFP), and visceral fat mass in obese male rats.

Methods: The research subjects were 30 male Wistar rats weighing 125-200 g, aged eight weeks. Obesity was induced by being given high-fat high fructose (HFHFr) feed for 28 days. Rats were randomized and divided into five groups: the negative control group (C-) was given standard feed and distilled water, the positive control (C+) was given standard feed and orlistat, treatment 1 (T1), treatment 2 (T2), and treatment 3 (T3). Which were given standard feed and RBPE doses of 200 mg/kgBW/day, 400 mg/kgBW/day, and 800 mg/kgBW/day. Data before and after the induction of obesity were analyzed using paired t-tests. BW, BMI, and visceral fat mass were analyzed using the One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Repeated Measure ANOVA tests. BFP was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Friedman test.

Results: RBPE can significantly reduce BW (p=0.026), BMI (p<0.001), and BFP (p<0.001). However, all groups had no significant difference in visceral fat mass (p=0.187). T3 was the group with the lowest average BW, BMI, BFP, and visceral fat mass although the highest weight loss during the intervention period occurred in C+.
Conclusions: RBPE has the potential as an alternative therapy for obesity because it can reduce BW, BMI, and BFP. Future studies can investigate the effect of RBPE on other obesity parameters such as lipid profiles.
Effectivity and cost-effectiveness of oral nutrition supplement on malnourished children: A literature review
Authors: Helmyati Siti , Wigati Maria , Rachmawati Yuliana Novita , Syarifa Cut Alima , Rosilia Gifani , - Renita
Published: August 2024

Background: Child undernutrition has been a global problem that could be potentially treated with the support of food for special medical purposes, including oral nutrition supplements (ONS). This literature review aims to examine the effectiveness of ONS on growth indicators, length of stay, and the occurrence of adverse events and explore the cost-effectiveness of ONS.

Methods: This review summarized findings from 16 articles. The articles were experimental, with or without comparison or control group, and examine nutrition status, other outcomes directly or indirectly related to malnutrition, and cost-effectiveness. Articles were collected from electronic database including PubMed, ProQuest, and Google Scholar with additional articles from Google search engine.

Results: Some articles reported that ONS administration, good ONS consumption, and higher ONS density resulted in weight and height gain, improvements in nutrition status, and shorter length of stay compared to those who don’t receive ONS, had poor ONS consumption, and had lower ONS density, although several adverse events of ONS consumption such as gastrointestinal symptoms, diarrhea, and vomiting were also recorded.

Conclusion: Studies on the cost-effectiveness of ONS are limited, yet available studies suggest ONS might potentially be a cost-effective nutrition intervention in child malnutrition treatment due to its relatively low cost which potentially reduces direct medical costs.