bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Percepções dos alunos do IFMS Corumbá sobre agroecologia e segurança alimentar
Authors: Costa Mariane Leticia Leite da Cruz , Costa Edgar Aparecido da
Published: March 2023

Este artigo é um recorte de dissertação que investigou hábitos e noções sobre agroecologia e segurança alimentar com estudantes de nível técnico do Campus Corumbá do Instituto Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (IFMS). O objetivo foi descrever e discutir a percepção dos alunos do Campus Corumbá sobre agroecologia e segurança alimentar. Utilizou-se de metodologia descritiva e quantitativa. Após pesquisas bibliográficas e documentais, o meio interrogativo adotado foi o questionário com perguntas abertas e fechadas. Houve a necessidade de ser aplicado por meios digitais devido à pandemia da Covid-19 que limitou o acesso presencial aos estudantes no ano da pesquisa (2020). As questões abordaram as concepções dos jovens em relação aos hábitos alimentares saudáveis, percepções sobre a política pública da merenda e entendimento de como a agroecologia impacta na produção dos alimentos. Boa parte dos estudantes informaram não saber o significado de agroecologia e os que expuseram sua opinião fizeram relações com agricultura, ecossistema, alimentos saudáveis ou sem agrotóxicos. Os que frequentavam a feira agroecológica no campus disseram optar, na maioria das vezes, pela compra de alimentos como bolo, doces caseiros e mel, mesmo fazendo compras de verduras, como alface. Por outro lado, ao visitarem as feiras da cidade, fora do contexto agroecológico, adquirem os mais diversos produtos como roupas, CDs e DVDs, salgados, refrigerante, assim como os alimentos in natura vendidos pelos feirantes. Em relação ao questionamento sobre a segurança alimentar, as respostas variaram entre quantidade e qualidade da alimentação, e o consumo de alimentos saudáveis, naturais ou sem agrotóxicos. Depreendeu-se, por esta pesquisa, a necessidade de informar aos jovens – e a escola é um ambiente propício para tal - o valor dos alimentos e a importância da agroecologia e da segurança alimentar.
MicroRNA-155 Plays Selective Cell-Intrinsic Roles in Brain-Infiltrating Immune Cell Populations during Neuroinflammation
Authors: Thompson Jacob W , Hu Ruozhen , Huffaker Thomas B , Ramstead Andrew G , Ekiz H Atakan , Bauer Kaylyn M , Tang William W , Ghazaryan Arevik , Round June L , Fujinami Robert S , O’Connell Ryan M
Published: March 2023

The proinflammatory microRNA-155 (miR-155) is highly expressed in the serum and CNS lesions of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Global knockout (KO) of miR-155 in mice confers resistance to a mouse model of MS, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), by reducing the encephalogenic potential of CNS-infiltrating Th17 T cells. However, cell-intrinsic roles for miR-155 during EAE have not been formally determined. In this study, we use single-cell RNA sequencing and cell-specific conditional miR-155 KOs to determine the importance of miR-155 expression in distinct immune cell populations. Time-course single-cell sequencing revealed reductions in T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells (DCs) in global miR-155 KO mice compared with wild-type controls at day 21 after EAE induction. Deletion of miR-155 in T cells, driven by CD4 Cre, significantly reduced disease severity similar to global miR-155 KOs. CD11c Cre-mediated deletion of miR-155 in DCs also resulted in a modest yet significant reduction in the development of EAE, with both T cell– and DC-specific KOs showing a reduction in Th17 T cell infiltration into the CNS. Although miR-155 is highly expressed in infiltrating macrophages during EAE, deletion of miR-155 using LysM Cre did not impact disease severity. Taken together, these data show that although miR-155 is highly expressed in most infiltrating immune cells, miR-155 has distinct roles and requirements depending on the cell type, and we have demonstrated this using the gold standard conditional KO approach. This provides insights into which functionally relevant cell types should be targeted by the next generation of miRNA therapeutics.
Chlamydia pneumoniae Lung Infection in Mice Induces Fatty Acid–Binding Protein 4–Dependent White Adipose Tissue Pathology
Authors: Kurihara Yusuke , Walenna Nirwana Fitriani , Ishii Kazunari , Soejima Toshinori , Chou Bin , Yoshimura Michinobu , Ozuru Ryo , Shimizu Akinori , Itoh Ryota , Furuhashi Masato , Hotamisligil Gökhan S , Hiromatsu Kenji
Published: March 2023

Fatty acid–binding protein 4 (FABP4) is a critical immune-metabolic modulator, mainly expressed in adipocytes and macrophages, secreted from adipocytes in association with lipolysis, and plays essential pathogenic roles in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. We previously reported Chlamydia pneumoniae infecting murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes and causing lipolysis and FABP4 secretion in vitro. However, it is still unknown whether C. pneumoniae intranasal lung infection targets white adipose tissues (WATs), induces lipolysis, and causes FABP4 secretion in vivo. In this study, we demonstrate that C. pneumoniae lung infection causes robust lipolysis in WAT. Infection-induced WAT lipolysis was diminished in FABP4−/− mice or FABP4 inhibitor–pretreated wild-type mice. Infection by C. pneumoniae in wild-type but not FABP4−/− mice induces the accumulation of TNF-α– and IL-6–producing M1-like adipose tissue macrophages in WAT. Infection-induced WAT pathology is augmented by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress/the unfolded protein response (UPR), which is abrogated by treatment with azoramide, a modulator of the UPR. C. pneumoniae lung infection is suggested to target WAT and induce lipolysis and FABP4 secretion in vivo via ER stress/UPR. FABP4 released from infected adipocytes may be taken up by other neighboring intact adipocytes or adipose tissue macrophages. This process can further induce ER stress activation and trigger lipolysis and inflammation, followed by FABP4 secretion, leading to WAT pathology. A better understanding of the role of FABP4 in C. pneumoniae infection–induced WAT pathology will provide the basis for rational intervention measures directed at C. pneumoniae infection and metabolic syndrome, such as atherosclerosis, for which robust epidemiologic evidence exists.
Role of NK Cells in Skin Wound Healing of Mice
Authors: Cavalcante-Silva Jacqueline , Koh Timothy J
Published: March 2023

NK cells are best known for their killing of virus-infected cells and tumor cells via release of cytotoxic factors. However, NK cells can also produce growth factors and cytokines, and thus have the potential to influence physiological processes such as wound healing. In this study, we test the hypothesis that NK cells play a physiological role in skin wound healing of C57BL/6J mice. Immunohistochemical and flow cytometry assays showed that NK cells accumulate in excisional skin wounds, peaking on day 5 postinjury. We also found that NK cells proliferate locally in wounds, and blocking IL-15 activity locally reduces NK cell proliferation and accumulation in wounds. Wound NK cells exhibit primarily a mature CD11b+CD27− and NKG2A+NKG2D− phenotype and express LY49I and proinflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ, Tnf-a, and Il-1β. Systemic depletion of NK cells resulted in enhanced re-epithelization and collagen deposition, suggesting a negative role for these cells in skin wound healing. Depletion of NK cells did not influence accumulation of neutrophils or monocytes/macrophages in wounds but did reduce expression of IFN-γ, Tnf-a, and Il-1β, indicating that NK cells contribute to proinflammatory cytokine expression in wounds. In short, NK cells may impede physiological wound healing via production of proinflammatory cytokines.
The Adaptation Model of Immunity: Signal IV Matters Most in Determining the Functional Outcomes of Immune Responses
Authors: Manjili Masoud H
Published: March 2023

Current research in immunology and immunotherapy is fully influenced by the self–nonself model of immunity. This theoretical model suggests that alloreactivity results in graft rejection, whereas tolerance toward self-antigens expressed by malignant cells facilitates cancer development. Similarly, breakage of immunological tolerance toward self-antigens results in autoimmune diseases. Accordingly, immune suppression is recommended for the management of autoimmune diseases, allergy, and organ transplantation, whereas immune inducers are used for the treatment of cancers. Although the danger model, the discontinuity model, and the adaptation model are proposed for a better understanding of the immune system, the self–nonself model continues to dominate the field. Nevertheless, a cure for these human diseases remains elusive. This essay discusses current theoretical models of immunity, as well as their impacts and limitations, and expands on the adaptation model of immunity to galvanize a new direction for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, organ transplantation, and cancer.
IFN1 Enhances Thrombocyte Phagocytosis through IFN Receptor Complex-JAK/STAT-Complement C3.3-CR1 Pathway and Facilitates Antibacterial Immune Regulation in Teleost
Authors: Zhu Wentao , Zhang Yanqi , Liao Zhiwei , Huo Xingchen , Yang Chunrong , Zhang Yongan , Su Jianguo
Published: March 2023

Type I IFNs with strong positive charges exhibit robust bactericidal activity and a protective effect against bacterial infections. However, the antibacterial mechanism in vivo remains unknown. In this study, Ab blockade of IFN1, a member of type I IFNs in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), resulted in high mortality, tissue bacterial loads, and low expression of immune factors after bacterial challenge, which indicates that the antibacterial activity of IFN1 has physiological significance. Meanwhile, we injected grass carp with the recombinant and purified intact IFN1 protein after bacterial injection, and the result demonstrated a remarkable therapeutic effect. Furthermore, we found that IFN1 expression was remarkably induced in blood cells after bacterial challenge, and prophagocytosis via IFN1 mostly increased in thrombocytes. Then, we isolated peripheral blood thrombocytes by polyclonal Ab of CD41 and stimulated thrombocytes with recombinant IFN1, and the results indicated that immune factors and complement components (especially C3.3) were induced. Unexpectedly, complements demonstrated not only bacteriolysis but also bacterial aggregation. Furthermore, Ab blockades of the three subunits (CRFB1/CRFB2/CRFB5) of the IFN1 receptor or inhibition of STAT1 almost abolished the prophagocytosis via IFN1 and reduced C3.3 and immune factor expression in thrombocytes. Meanwhile, Ab blockade of the complement receptor CR1 greatly attenuated the prophagocytosis of IFN1. In contrast, mouse IFN-β did not show the promotion of antibacterial activity. These results clarify the prophagocytosis and immune regulation pathways of IFN1 in antibacterial immunity in teleosts. This study reveals the antibacterial mechanisms of type I IFNs in vivo and inspires functional studies of IFN in bacterial infections.
Identification of a Double-β-Defensin with Multiple Antimicrobial Activities in a Marine Invertebrate
Authors: Xiao Bang , Wang Yue , Xian Danrong , Fan Taolin , He Jianguo , Li Chaozheng
Published: March 2023

β-Defensins are a family of cysteine-rich antimicrobial peptides that are generally monodomain. Interestingly, the avian β-defensin 11 (AvBD11) is unique, with two β-defensin motifs with a broad range of antimicrobial activities. However, a double-sized β-defensin has not been identified and functionally characterized in invertebrates. In this study, we cloned and identified a double-β-defensin in shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei (named LvDBD) and explored its potential roles during infection with shrimp pathogens Vibrio parahaemolyticus and white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). LvDBD is an atypical double-sized defensin, which is predicted to possess two motifs related to β-defensin and six disulfide bridges. The RNA interference–mediated knockdown of LvDBD in vivo results in phenotypes with increased bacterial loads, rendering the shrimp more susceptible to V. parahaemolyticus infection, which could be rescued by the injection of recombinant LvDBD protein. In vitro, rLvDBD could destroy bacterial membranes and enhance hemocyte phagocytosis, possibly attributable to its affinity to the bacterial wall components LPS and peptidoglycan. In addition, LvDBD could interact with several viral envelope proteins to inhibit WSSV proliferation. Finally, the NF-κB transcription factors (Dorsal and Relish) participated in the regulation of LvDBD expression. Taken together, these results extend the functional understanding of a double-β-defensin to an invertebrate and suggest that LvDBD may be an alternative agent for the prevention and treatment of diseases caused by V. parahaemolyticus and WSSV in shrimp.
Commensal Bacteria and the Lung Environment Are Responsible for Th2-Mediated Memory Yielding Natural IgE in MyD88-Deficient Mice
Authors: Amano Shunsuke , Haniuda Kei , Fukao Saori , Aoki Hiroyasu , Ueha Satoshi , Kitamura Daisuke
Published: March 2023

IgE Abs are a common mediator of allergic responses and are generally produced in type 2 immune responses to allergens. Allergen stimulation of IgE-bound FcεRI on mast cells or basophils induces the production of chemical mediators and cytokines. In addition, IgE binding to FcεRI without allergen promotes the survival or proliferation of these and other cells. Thus, spontaneously produced natural IgE can increase an individual’s susceptibility to allergic diseases. Mice deficient in MyD88, a major TLR signaling molecule, have high serum levels of natural IgE, the mechanism for which remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that the high serum IgE levels were maintained from weaning by memory B cells (MBCs). IgE from plasma cells and sera from most Myd88−/− mice, but none of the Myd88+/− mice, recognized Streptococcus azizii, a commensal bacterium overrepresented in the lungs of Myd88−/− mice. IgG1+ MBCs from the spleen also recognized S. azizii. The serum IgE levels declined with the administration of antibiotics and were boosted by challenge with S. azizii in Myd88−/− mice, indicating the contribution of S. azizii–specific IgG1+ MBCs to the natural IgE production. Th2 cells were selectively increased in the lungs of Myd88−/− mice and were activated upon addition of S. azizii in the lung cells ex vivo. Finally, lung nonhematopoietic cells, and CSF1 overproduced therefrom, were responsible for natural IgE production in Myd88−/− mice. Thus, some commensal bacteria may prime the Th2 response and natural IgE production in the MyD88-defective lung environment in general.
Effectiveness of essential oils against dual-species biofilm of Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens in a Ricotta-based model system
Authors: Maggio Francesca , Serio Annalisa , Rossi Chiara , Purgatorio Chiara , Buccioni Francesco , Chaves- López Clemencia , Paparella Antonello
Published: March 2023

Biofilms represent an evolutionary form of life, which translates from life in free-living cells to a community lifestyle. In natural habitats, biofilms are a multispecies complex, where synergies or antagonisms can be established. For example, Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens are associated with a dual-species biofilm that is widespread in dairy plants. In food plants, multiple strategies are devised to control biofilms, including natural compounds such as essential oils (EOs). In this respect, this study evaluated the effectiveness of Thymbra capitata (L.) Cav. EO and Cinnamomum zeylanicum (CEO) against a dual-species biofilm of L. monocytogenes and P. fluorescens, mimicking dairy process conditions. Based on Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations results, the EOs concentration (10 µL/mL) was chosen for the antibiofilm assay at 12°C on polystyrene (PS), and stainless steel surfaces for 168 h, using a Ricotta-based model system as culture medium. Biofilm biomass was assessed by crystal violet staining, and the planktonic and sessile cells were quantified in terms of Log CFU/cm2. Results showed that CEO displayed the greatest antibiofilm activity, reducing significantly (P<0.05) P. fluorescens and L. monocytogenes sessile cells of about 2.5 and 2.8 Log CFU/cm2 after 72 h, respectively. However, L. monocytogenes gained the protection of P. fluorescens, evading CEO treatment and showing a minimal sessile cell reduction of 0.7 Log CFU/cm2 after 72 h. Considering the outcome of this study, CEO might have promising perspectives for applications in dairy facilities.
From Receiving Mathematics to Negotiating Meaning: Development of Students' Understanding of Geometric Concept
Authors: Bosse Michael J. , Bayaga Anass , Fountain Catherine , Sevier John
Published: March 2023

This study applies a framework for mathematical cognition and learning (Bossé, et al., 2018a; Bossé et al., 2019; Bossé et al., 2018b) to examples of students’ comprehension of geometric concepts related to angles. This framework utilizes key concepts from second language acquisition (SLA) to elucidate processes involved in mathematical learning. The present study analyzes concrete examples of student-teacher and student-student discourse to illustrate how students at different stages of development build their understanding of mathematical principles and concepts regarding angles. The findings indicate that students at different framework levels learn, process, and communicate about angles in observably different ways that share similarities with mathematical learning and SLA.
A simple and low-cost new procedure for synthesis of nickel(II) and cadmium(II) sulfides in situ thiourea metal–chelation precursor
Authors: S. Refat Moamen , Y. El-Sayed Mohamed , H. Alsohaimi Ibrahim , M. Hassan Hassan , S. Alraddadid Thamer , Akhtar Sultan
Published: March 2023

ABSTRACT. Nickel(II) and cadmium(II) sulfides are a promising chemical material in various advanced research areas such as solar cells, supercapacitors, catalysts, and of significant interest for their practical implementations in up to photonics and electronics. Cadmium and nickel sulfides were synthesized with stoichiometries in aqueous media at elevated temperature from Ni(NO3)2.6H2O, NiCl2.6H2O, NiSO4.6H2O, CdCl2, Cd(NO3)2.4H2O, CdSO4.8H2O and thiourea as a sulfur precursor using a direct chemical reaction. At room temperature an octahedral and tetrahedral geometries result from the reactions between different nickel(II), cadmium(II) and thiourea with the molecular formulas can be presented as [Ni(NH2CSNH2)6]X2 and [Cd(NH2CSNH2)4]X2 where X = Cl-, NO3-, SO42. The novelty of our study is precipitated yellow cadmium sulfide and black nickel sulfide at elevated temperature ~80 oC through the molar ratio 1:10 (M2+: thiourea) in aqueous media. Infrared spectra, XRD, TEM including EDX, and elemental analysis were used for characterization the metal sulfides products. The average crystalline size of obtained CdS and NiS particles in range 20-25 nm. Different reaction conditions effects were evaluated on the size, morphology and particle size.

 

KEY WORDS: Nickel and cadmium sulfide, Chelation, Thiourea, XRD, TEM

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2023, 37(3), 663-674.                                                          

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v37i3.10
p-Anisidine release study by hydrolysis of Schiff bases in homogeneous media
Authors: Amaria Moulay Awatif , Diaf Kheira , Elbahri Zineb , Mesli Abderrezzak , Chafi Nafa , Besbes Néji
Published: March 2023

ABSTRACT. The objective of this work is to study the release of p-anisidine by the hydrolysis of synthesized Schiff bases N-vinylbenzylidene-p-anisidine (Im) as a monomer and its copolymers (Cp1, Cp2) with N,N-dimethylacrylamide (DMA). The hydrolysis behavior and kinetics are investigated in homogeneous media composed of ethanol/water (80% v/v) at 37 °C and at pH range of 4.0-10.0. The variation of the concentration over time is measured in thermostatically cells using UV-Vis spectroscopy. The results showed that the imine function hydrolysis obeyed to the first order for all compounds; the experimental kinetic constants are determined and the pH–rate diagram profile is established. It is noticed that the hydrolysis of imine function is extremely dependent on its carrier and the pH medium.

 

KEY WORDS: p-Anisidine, Copolymer, Schiff base, Hydrolysis, pH–rate diagram, Controlled release

 

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2023, 37(3), 745-755.                                                              

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v37i3.16
New tetrapropylammonium tetrabromozincate complex [(C3H7)4N]2ZnBr4(II) - synthesis, spectral, thermal characterization and antioxidant activity
Authors: Kanagarajan Banupriya , Parveen Sheikdawood , Ramasamy Rathinam , Ramasamy Umarani
Published: March 2023

ABSTRACT. The importance of the A2BX4 complex (A = bivalent ion, NH4+ and its alkyl radical derivatives; B = bivalent transition metal ion and X = halogen) has increased in recent years due  to fascinating physical properties such as ferro elastic, ferroelectric, and corresponding – unequal phases at low temperatures. In modern technologies the use of transistors, ferromagnetic garnets, sensor systems, softener templates, and ultraviolet light, as well as IR solid-state lasers,          efficient crystalline materials are expected. A slow evaporation approach at room temperature was used to grow the TPAPBr-Zn [(CH3CH2CH2)4N]2ZnBr4(II) challenging kind A2BX4. Elemental analysis, powder diffraction, differential thermal analysis, FT-IR, proton and carbon-13 NMR spectroscopic techniques are used to characterize the synthesized compound.  The presence of chemical groups and methylene radical groups in the compound are confirmed by the FT-IR spectra. The presence of an N-propyl group in the molecule is indicated by the nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. Thermogram of the compound reveals two-stage decomposition showing endo followed by exothermic decomposition resulting zinc oxide as an end product. As synthesised compound shown significant inhibitory activity towards free radical.

 

KEY WORDS: Synthesis, Elemental analysis, Spectroscopic studies, TG analysis, Antioxidant, Tetrapropylammonium tetrabromozincate(II)

 

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2023, 37(3), 623-631.                                                             

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v37i3.7
Flowering phenology of African pear (Dacryodes edulis (G. Don)HJ Lam) under Nigerian ecological conditions
Authors: Njoku T.C.
Published: March 2023

A-three-year trial of flowering phenological characteristics of 150 African pear tree were studied in South-South and South-East Nigeria to study the  flowering phenology of African pear (Dacryodes edulis) under Nigerian Ecological conditions. Five States were selected, three locations in each State, ten  mature African pear trees were selected and tagged for data collection. Also, meteorological data were collected for three years. The surveyed trees were  monitored till flowering time. Data were collected on start of flower formation, peak of flowering, days to anthesis, average temperature and rainfall  during the months of flowering. Data collected were analysed using analysis of variance and percentages were calculated where appropriate. Result  obtained indicated that there were variations in the time of flowering. African pear had peak flowering in January in Imo, Rivers and Delta States for  2013-2015, while Abia and Enugu had their peak flowering for the same period in February and March, respectively. African pear flowered between the  temperatures of 27.0oC to 29.5oC. Rainfall ranged from 0.00mm to 137.50mm. The flowering season was affected mainly by temperature. Time of  inflorescence flower bud formation to anthesis lasted for 2-5 days, but majority took 3-4 days to reach anthesis. In the study, under Nigerian ecological  condition, African pear flowered when the temperature was high and when humidity was low. The planting of African pear that flowers around January  and February should be encouraged because they had the highest yield and potential to ripe during hunger period.
Mutagenic effects of colchicine on the morphology and yield of three tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) accessions
Authors: Udofia E.G. , Falusi O.A. , Abubakar A. , Daudu O.A.Y. , Ajenifujah-Solebo S.O.A. , Titus S.D.
Published: March 2023

The mutagenic effect of Colchicine on the morphology and yield of tomato was investigated. Seeds of three tomato accessions (NG/MR/May/09/005-  SouthWest, NG/SA/07/10/002- NorthEast and NG/CHU/Jun/0201-SouthEast) were presoaked in four different concentrations of Colchicine (0.1mM, 0.3mM,  0.5mM, 1.0mM) and 0.0mM as control. The domestic demand for tomato extremely exceeds the supply with over 2-3 million metric tons annually  thereby involving Nigeria into importing about 300,000 metric tonnes worth over $360 million dollar yearly. The experiment was laid in  Randomized Complete Block Design in five replications. The morphological parameters used to characterize the mutants were plant height, number of  leaves/plant, leaf length, number of branches, number of days to first flowering, fruit weight, germination percentage and number of fruit/plant. The  results revealed significant difference (p<0.05) in some of the morphological traits assessed when compared with the controls, except in the number of  branches and plant height, where the effect of the mutagen was not important (p>0.05). The morphological and yield parameters of the southwest and  northeast accessions of tomato as observed in this study, improved with decreasing concentration of Colchicine, while the southeast improved with  increase in the concentration of Colchicine. It is thus recommended that, to improve growth and yield parameters in tomatoes, 0.1mM concentration  should be employed to improve Southwest and Northeast tomato accessions, while 0.5mM or 1.0mM concentrations should be used in the Southeast  tomato accessions.
Production of black herbal tea from Bacopa floribunda: effect on mineral profile, antioxidant and anticholinesterase properties of Bacopa floribunda leaves
Authors: Adetuyi F.O. , Akintimehin E.S. , Karigidi K.O. , Adefegha S.A.
Published: March 2023

This study investigate the effect of converting Bacopa floribunda BF leaves into Bacopa florbunda black herbal tea BFHT on the mineral profile,  antinutrients, antioxidants, Anticholinesterase and lipid peroxidation inhibitory properties of Bacopa floribunda leaves. Bacopa floribunda leaves were  plucked, destalked, withered, rolled, fermented/oxidized, milled, dried, cooled and packaged. The antinutrients phytate, saponin and tannin content of B.  floribunda leaves reduced significantly (P ˂ 0.05) after processing into BFHT. The mineral ratios and molar ratios of minerals BFHT were within the critical  values making them available for absorption. BFHT exhibited a very high and significant (P ˂ 0.05) total phenolics (60.08 mg GAE/g), total flavonoids  (12.96 mg QE/g) and reducing power (50.38mg AAE/g). The scavenging activities of BFHT extract against DPPH and Nitric oxide (NO) was significantly (P ˂  0.05) higher than freshly harvested B. floribunda leaves. BFHT (IC50 = 74.26 μg/ml) demonstrated a high significant (P ˂ 0.05) inhibitory capacity against  Acetyl cholinesterase enzymes. The inhibition capacity of BFHT (IC50 = 0.65 μg/ml) against Fe2+ induced lipid peroxidation was significantly (P ˂ 0.05)  higher than freshly harvested B. floribunda leaves (IC50 = 0.78 μg/ml). The study has demonstrated that high quality herbal tea BFHT could be produced  from B. floribunda leaves and also serves as another method of food preservation.
THE EFFECT OF THE BRAND IMAGE AND LIFESTYLE TOWARD THE INTEREST OF BUYING MAKEOVERS PRODUCTS AT THE COUNTER MAKEOVER BUYER AT THE SUN PLAZA
Authors: Pratiwi Ajeng Retno , Wijaya Muslim , Nasution Fadli Adnin , Rahmah Sabrina Aulia
Published: March 2023

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study is to understand how brand image and sexual orientation affect the amount of product purchased during counter makeover transactions at Sun Plaza Medan. This type of analysis is an associative analysis, one that connects two or more variables. 120 people make up the sample size or respondents in this study; hence, the sampling technique that will be used is random sampling. With a population of around 120 people and an error level of less than 0.01, the sample in this study consisted of about 55 people. The analysis method used in this study is multiple linear regression analysis. Data collection was carried out using observations and questionnaires during the data collection process, which combined data from the first and second stages.According to the study's findings, Brand Image data on partial tests was positively and significantly correlated with Purchase Intention. Because Brand Image has a variable tcount number of 3,753 and a fixed tcount number of 2,004, the tcount exceeds the ttable. (3.753 > 2.004) and a lower threshold for significance (0.009 0.05). With a positive and significant effect on Lifestyle's relationship to Purchase Interest, the variable Lifestyle's tcount value is 8.540, and the ttable's value is 2.004, meaning that tcount > ttable (8.540 > 2.004), and the significance level is less than 0, 05 (0.004 0.05). In parallel, Brand Image and Goodwill increased positively and significantly with respect to the amount of MakeOver products purchased at the Sun Plaza Medan counter, with an Fcount value of 62,218 and a Sig. value of 0.000b. F count > F table (62.218 > 3.16) or significance (Sig.) 5% (0.000 0.05), as appropriate.Keywords: Brand image, good health, and solid behavior are the key words.
OPTICAL SCHEME FOR SPECTROPHOTOMETER
Authors:   SPACE RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGIES INSTITUTE - BAS SOFIA 1113, ACAD. GEORGI BONCHEV ST., BL. 1, Getzov Petar , Stoyanov Stiliyan ,   Stoyanov, Zhekov Zhivko ,   KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKY UNIVERSITY SHUMEN; 115 INIVERSITETSKA STR. 9712 SHUMEN
Published: March 2023

The work is about the design and development of compact optical system for spectrophotometer. The equation of plain diffraction grating allows the design of a compact appliance with optimal combination of the separate optical elements and their parameters. There are certain constructions of spectral appliances, which are developed by leading companies. The path of the rays is used, it is reflected by mirrors many times and the result is a compact construction. There are company catalogues for the choice of separate optical elements when developing appliances, but they do not describe the elements in detail. These facts do not allow scientific research and experimental construction on a high scientific and technical level with own recourses and materials.
VULNERABILITY PENETRATION TESTING THE COMPUTER AND NETWORK RESOURCES OF WINDOWS BASED OPERATING SYSTEMS
Authors:   Konstantin Preslavsky University of Shumen, Faculty of Technical Sciences, Boyanov Petar
Published: March 2023

In this paper a vulnerability penetration testing for several hosts in WLAN is made. The exploited operating systems were Microsoft Windows 7Enterprise and Microsoft Windows 8. It has been used an exploit named “Java storeImageArray () Invalid Array Index-ing Vulnerability”. Thanks to the open source penetration testing platform - Metasploit Framework the exploit was executed on the target hosts. The most important and critical rea-son the attack being successfully executed is connected with the human factor and interven-tion. Thereby, some security professionals and network administrators can use Metasploit Framework neither to run exploit nor to write security scripts in order to detect and protect the computer and network resources against various malicious cyber-attacks.
USING THE COLASOFT CAPSA NETWORK ANALYZER TO DIAGNOSE, PINPOINT AND DETECT A VIRIETY OF MALICIOUS CYBERATTACKS AND TO IMPROVE THE VULNERABILITIES FOR A SOHO NETWORK
Authors:   Konstantin Preslavsky University of Shumen, Faculty of Technical Sciences, Boyanov Petar
Published: March 2023

In this paper a high-level analyzing for different malicious attacks is made. Thanks to the real-time network analyzer Colasoft Capsa some applications problems and vulnerabilities have been detected and thereby this action ensures a protection for the hosts in the SOHO network. Nowadays it is desirable that many cyber-security professionals and net-work managers to use Colasoft Capsa in order to detect and protect the computer and net-work systems against malicious cyber-attacks.
APPROACHES TO IDENTIFY VULNERABILITIES IN THE SECURITY SYSTEM OF THE SOCIAL ORGANIZATION AND COMPUTER RESOURCES
Authors:   KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKI UNIVERSITY OF SHUMEN, SHUMEN 9712, 115, UNIVERSITETSKA STR., Hristov Hristo , Boyanov Petar ,   Konstantin Preslavsky University of Shumen, Faculty of Technical Sciences, Trifonov Tihomir ,   Konstantin Preslavsky University of Shumen, Faculty of Technical Sciences
Published: March 2023

Essential component of organizing stage of the counteraction for the en-croachment against the business organization is to identify vulnerabilities of the social organization. The purpose of this stage is to identify all existing and potential weaknesses and disadvantages of the security system of the organization, creating a circumstance for adversely effects on the sources of threat.
THE DEPLORABLE STATE OF THE BULGARIAN ECONOMY REQUIRES URGENT MEASURES FOR ITS MODERNIZATION, BUT CREATES ENORMOUS DIFFICULTIES FOR THE INVESTMENT PROCESS
Authors:   TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF GABROVO, Totev Hristo
Published: March 2023

Our country and our small open economy is heavily dependent on the world market, as we have no practical impact on the development and functioning of this market, we consume all its positives and assets.
BUILDING AN ONLINE SYSTEM FOR APPOINTMENTS TO MEDICAL SPECIALIST
Authors:   ", Vardeva Ivelina ,   PROF. D-R ASSEN ZLATAROV UNIVERSITY",   , BURGAS 8010, STR. PROF. YAKIMOV 1, BULGARIA
Published: March 2023

It is done an examination which aim is to support making an e-system for making an appointment to a medicine specialist. It is examined existing web-based technologies applied in similar systems as well as their advantages and disadvantages. For the examination work and for the elaboration are used web-date based and program languages. Developing an online based system gives a possibility for creating flexible applications planning to save time and financial resources for the users when they need to do an appointment as well as the medical specialists for their everyday work. For the first time in Bulgaria that type system has been applied in the private business in few years ago. Its appliance at the medical institutions could reduce the time of waiting up in a queue in front the doctor's cabinet and it could bring a better organization at the medical centers.
Al3+ ACCEPTORS AND THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF Bi12SiO20:Cr+Al
Authors:   KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKI UNIVERSITY OF SHUMEN, SHUMEN 9712, 115, UNIVERSITETSKA STR., Petkova Petya , Vasilev Petko ,   KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKI UNIVERSITY OF SHUMEN, SHUMEN 9712, 115, UNIVERSITETSKA STR.
Published: March 2023

Absorption measurement is taken in the visible spectral region (650 - 850 nm). The dopants Cr3+ and Al3+ ions occupy the tetrahedral sites in the crystal lattice of doped sillenite. The electron transitions in Cr3+ are presented in the case of Bi12SiO20:Cr and Bi12SiO20:Cr+Al. The total cross-section of combined chromium-aluminium absorption structure and the spin-orbit coupling energy of Cr3+ are calculated.
MODELING OF THE INFLUENCE OF THE THERMOMECHANICAL MODIFICATION PARAMETERS ON THE STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN POLYESTER FIBERS
Authors:   KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKI UNIVERSITY OF SHUMEN, SHUMEN 9712, 115, UNIVERSITETSKA STR., Velev Valentin , Grozev Valentin ,   KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKI UNIVERSITY OF SHUMEN, SHUMEN 9712, 115, UNIVERSITETSKA STR., Popov Anton ,   UNIVERSITY "PROF. DR. ASSEN ZLATAROV" â€“ BURGAS, 8000, BURGAS, BULGARIA, Androsch Rene ,   MARTIN LUTHER UNIVERSITY, HALLE-WITTENBERG, CENTER OF ENGINEERING SCIENCES, 06217, MERSEBURG, GERMANY, Dimov Todor ,   KONSTANTIN PRESLAVSKI UNIVERSITY OF SHUMEN, SHUMEN 9712, 115, UNIVERSITETSKA STR., Veleva Lyubomira ,   PAUL SCHERRER INSTITUTE, NUCLEAR ENERGY AND SAFETY DEPARTMENT, SWITZERLAND, Radusch Hans-Joachim ,   MARTIN LUTHER UNIVERSITY, HALLE-WITTENBERG, CENTER OF ENGINEERING SCIENCES, 06217, MERSEBURG, GERMANY
Published: March 2023

In the present work is proposed an attempt for modeling of the complex influence of the heat mechanical treatment parameters on the structure developments in as-spun polyester fibers. Freshly molded poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) filaments with different preliminary orientation were subjected to simultaneously thermal and mechanical treatments. PET yarns were sequentially undergoing to uniaxially strain-stress with values of 40 MPa, 80 MPa, and 120 MPa at three different temperatures in a narrow temperature range from 850C to 950C. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) has been used to study the structural rearrangements in the heat-mechanically processed PET fibers. Response equations have been obtained showing the relationship between the parameters of the thermal deformation experiment and the desired degree of crystallinity of the studied PET fibers.
Fall risk screening and balance rehabilitation in elderly: a missing healthcare intervention in Pakistani healthcare system.
Authors: Azim Muhammad Ehab , Asghar Ejaz , Babur Muhammad Naveed , Rathore Farooq Azam
Published: March 2023

Elderly are one of the fastest-growing population globally and require significant healthcare services due to age-related deterioration in physiological systems. Poor postural control due to aging results in impaired balance leading to increase in frequency of falls, poor quality of life, and rise in disability and mortality rates.  In Pakistan, due to lack of awareness, and resources, fall prevention and screening programmes for the elderly are lacking. Regular fall risk screening utilizing balance assessment tools, integration of fall prevention programmes and balance rehabilitation approach as part of elderly healthcare services can serve as tools to lower the incidence of falls in the elderly population of Pakistan. Moreover, integration of latest technology as part of balance rehabilitation can also be considered. The review aims to highlight appropriate strategies for fall risk screening and balance rehabilitation in an effort to promote an important healthcare intervention for elderly in Pakistan.

Keywords: Aging, Balance Rehabilitation, Elderly, Fall Risk, Pakistan.
Benign and malignant breast diseases during pregnancy and lactation: a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Rahim Anila , Mahnoor Hafeez  , Amjad Sattar  , Waqas Ahmed Farooqui
Published: March 2023

Objective: To determine the incidence of breast cancer associated with pregnancy and lactation, and to evaluate the lesions on ultrasound.
Method: The descriptive, observational study was conducted at the Dow Institute of Radiology, DUHS, Karachi from December 2020 to August 2021, and comprised pregnant and lactating women with clinically palpable breast lumps and/or painful breast. The margins, orientation, echo pattern and associated features of the lesions were studied on ultrasound and were assigned a Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System grade. All the lumps were followed and ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy for histopathology was done of grades IV and V cases. Incidence and Accuracy of ultrasound for diagnosis of pregnancy-associated breast cancer was estimated. Data was analysed using SPSS 26.
Results: Of the 237 women, 19(8%) were pregnant and 218(92%) were lactating. The overall mean age was 28.4±5.5 years. Ultrasound findings for lactating and pregnant women were significantly different (p=0.05). Significant association of Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System grades III, IV and V lesions with heterogeneous echo texture of mass was seen (p<0.001). Biopsy was performed in 20(8.4%) cases, and 12(60%) of them had benign results on histopathology.
Conclusion: A variety of benign and malignant breast diseases were found in women during pregnancy and lactation phases.
Key Words: Pregnancy, Breast cancer, Lactation, Diagnosis, Ultrasound, Core biopsy.
Assessing the Bering-Chukchi-Beaufort Seas stock of bowhead whales using abundance data together with data on length or age
Authors: Punt Andre E.
Published: March 2023

The 1998 assessment of the Bering-Chukchi-Beaufort (B-C-B) Seas stock of bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) was conducted using a Bayesian estimation framework. That assessment ignored information on the length-frequency and age-composition of the harvests and the detailed length-frequency information from photogrammetry studies. The modelling framework used to assess the B-C-B Seas bowhead whales is therefore extended to make use of these data. The results indicate that selectivity is not uniform, as assumed in previous assessments, but rather domed-shaped, with young animals most vulnerable to harvest. The length-frequency, proportion, age-composition and abundance data are inconsistent to some extent. Fitting the model to the age-composition data leads to the most pessimistic estimates of stock status and productivity. The results of projections based on these assessments in which strike limits are set using the Bowhead Strike Limit Algorithm (SLA) suggest that none of the data sets are such that the scenarios considered when testing the Bowhead SLA should now be considered implausible.
Reconciling data on the trends and abundance of North Atlantic humpback whales within a population modelling framework
Authors: Punt Andre E. , Friday Nancy A. , Smith Tim D.
Published: March 2023

Populations of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the North Atlantic appear to have been increasing at least during the last few decades, following the cessation of substantial hunting almost 100 years ago. Several sources of data are available for these populations (survey and mark-recapture estimates of absolute and relative abundance, estimated catches, and estimates of the proportion of the animals on two feeding grounds that are from the West Indies breeding ground). These data were analysed using an age- and sex-structured population dynamics model that is spatially-explicit to the extent that abundance is tracked on five feeding and two breeding grounds. Several alternative hypotheses, including depensation and changes over time in carrying capacity, were captured within the model framework. Two scenarios form the focus of the analyses, based on alternative interpretations of the size of the breeding population off the Cape Verde Islands. The results of these analyses confirm the increase in the number of humpback whales in the North Atlantic, although it is not possible to determine the extent of such increases. Whether both the West Indies and Cape Verde Islands breeding stocks have increased depends on whether the estimate of abundance for the Cape Verde Islands population of approximately 100 animals is valid. Although many of the data sources can be reconciled given the model applied, some conflicts remain; resolution of these conflicts will require collection of additional data.
Trends in bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) strandings in South Carolina, USA, 1997-2003: implications for the Southern North Carolina and South Carolina Management Units
Authors: McFee Wayne E. , Hopkins-Murphy Sally R.
Published: March 2023

Trends in marine mammal stranding rates over multiple years can provide useful information on life history parameters, seasonal and spatial distribution and both natural and human-induced mortality rates when compared with baseline data. Data of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) stranding rates in South Carolina, USA from 1997-2003 were analysed. The objectives of this study were to: (1) compare recent trends in strandings with baseline data (1992-1996) for South Carolina; (2) compare strandings between the Southern North Carolina Management Unit (SNCMU) and the South Carolina Management Unit (SCMU); (3) determine annual, seasonal and spatial trends in bottlenose dolphin strandings; (4) investigate seasonal reproductive trends; and (5) determine the extent to which humans may affect stranding rates (human interactions). Bottlenose dolphins stranded in South Carolina are assumed to be from at least two of the seven management units recognised by the National Marine Fisheries Service in the Western North Atlantic: the SNCMU and the SCMU. During the study period, 302 bottlenose dolphin strandings were reported in South Carolina and stranding counts were analysed using a Generalised Linear Model. Results showed that there were significantly more bottlenose dolphin strandings in the spring and autumn as compared with summer and winter. The effect of season was highly significant for the number of neonate strandings, suggesting a bimodal reproductive cycle in spring and autumn for the study area. A significant increase in the number of strandings of all age classes was found in the autumn for the northern portion of the State (SNCMU), supporting the assumption that bottlenose dolphins from the north migrate into South Carolina waters during this time of year. Rope entanglements was the most common source of human interaction, with the crab pot fishery the most prevalent source of fishery mortality in South Carolina. This study demonstrates the usefulness of a long-term stranding database by increasing knowledge of temporal and spatial patterns and for monitoring neonate and human-induced mortality.
Cetaceans of the oceanic northern Gulf of Mexico: Distributions, group sizes and interspecific associations
Authors: Maze-Foley K. , Mullin K. D.
Published: March 2023

The Gulf of Mexico is a subtropical ocean basin with a diverse oceanic cetacean community. Cetacean research in the Gulf of Mexico has been driven by mandates of the US Marine Mammal Protection Act as well as concerns over the rapidly expanding oil and natural gas industry and related potential threats (e.g. seismic surveys, increased ship traffic, oil spills). Previously, cetacean distribution and abundances for specific Gulf of Mexico areas or species have been described based on work over periods of several years, and recently abundance estimates were made for the entire oceanic northern Gulf of Mexico (1996-2001). For each cetacean species, the paper describes distribution, group size, associated sea surface temperature and water depth and interspecific associations based on surveys conducted over 11 years that span the entire northern Gulf of Mexico. This dataset is the most comprehensive to date for the oceanic northern Gulf. Nine ship surveys totalling 45,462km of effort were conducted during spring seasons (1991-2001) in continental shelf-edge and oceanic waters ( 100m) of the northern Gulf of Mexico. Eighteen species were identified from 1,868 sightings. Cetaceans were found throughout the area although some species had localised distributions or occurred in restricted ranges of water depths. Spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) had the largest mean group size (n = 40, x – = 151.5, SE = 30.90), followed by melon-headed whales (Peponocephala electra), clymene dolphins (S. clymene), pantropical spotted dolphins (S. attenuata), Fraser’s dolphins (Lagenodelphis hosei) and striped dolphins (S. coeruleoalba) (range of means 46.1-99.6). Beaked whales (Ziphiidae), Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera edeni/brydei), sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) and pygmy/dwarf sperm whales (Kogia spp.) were found in the smallest groups (x – < 3). Twenty-seven sightings (1.4% of all sightings) were composed of two cetacean species. Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) were recorded in mixedspecies groups with more species than any other cetacean. Forty-five cetacean sightings (2.4% of all sightings) were associated with at least one bird species, and 21 (1.1% of all sightings) were associated with schools of fish. Contrary to previous reports, pantropical spotted dolphins were observed in association with both fish (including surface tunas) and seabirds, although to a lesser extent than for other tropical oceans. No mixed pantropical spotted and spinner dolphin groups were sighted despite their regular co-occurrence in other tropical oceans.