bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estudo qualiquantitativo e trófico da avifauna na RPPN Rio das Antas, Poços de Caldas-MG
Authors: Williams Eric Arruda , Godoy Ederson José de
Published: December 2023

Foram registradas 170 espécies da avifauna; Thraupidae (25 spp.), Trochilidae (15 spp.) e Tyrannidae (15 spp.) foram as famílias com maior número de táxons infragenéricos. As aves estão entre os principais grupos de animais e assumem um importante papel na bioindicação. Para contribuir com o conhecimento ecológico das aves foram coletados dados quantitativos e qualitativos, no período de maio de 2014 a julho de 2015, totalizando 300 horas amostrais. A partir dos índices estatísticos e ecológicos obteve-se os seguintes resultados: índice de Shannon (H’=3,08), equidistribuição de Pielou (e=0,60) e IPA (Índice Pontual de Abundância). Quanto à análise da estrutura trófica, reconheceu-se uma dominância de espécies generalistas e onívoras. E em relação ao status de ocorrência, verificou-se que 87% eram vagantes, 9% residentes e 4% visitantes sazonais. Esse é um dos primeiros trabalhos ecológicos de avifauna realizados no planalto de Poços de Caldas.
Preservação e conservação da Floresta Estadual de Batatais: aspectos bibliográficos e percepção de visitantes
Authors: Melega Ana Amélia Souza , Machado Felipe Santana , Moura Aloysio Souza de , Borem Rosângela Alves Tristão
Published: December 2023

Florestas apresentam funções como o equilíbrio ecológico, estruturação do ambiente, regulação do clima, além da importância social e econômica. Ações como desmatamento, incêndio, poluição, entre outros, estão ocorrendo como maior frequência, colocando em risco os recursos das gerações futuras. Objetivou-se analisar aspectos de fauna e flora, bem como a conservação e preservação socioambiental da Floresta Estadual de Batatais. A metodologia foi desenvolvida por meio de levantamento bibliográfico sobre a flora, fauna e hidrologia, assim como a aplicação de questionários, onde se verificou a importância do parque para o meio social. O parque é visitado pela população para práticas de exercícios físicos, lazer e busca da tranquilidade na natureza. Entretanto, acontecem incêndios, descarte de lixo e entulhos na floresta. Esse cenário compromete a biodiversidade, além da poluição visual. Os problemas enfrentados são atenuantes e destacam a necessidade de uma gestão para proteger e conservar esse patrimônio histórico e cultural.
Tendencies on seed research: A bibliometric study
Authors: Nogueira Marina Romano , Guaraldo Marília Mendes dos Santos , Santos Heloisa Oliveira dos , Pereira Wilson Vicente Souza , Barbosa Sandro
Published: December 2023

Seeds are the most important way of plant reproduction, with essential advantages on propagation such as genetic variability originated from parental generation. This exploratory study was carried on quantifying studies from "Web of Science" database using specific keywords related to seeds. The research covers a 10-year span (2009-2019) and includes articles on seed-related topics such as formation, development, water relations, germination, deterioration, and vigor. The study selected four open-access scientific journals from the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Qualis system, considering their impact factors and relevance to agricultural sciences. All collected data were analyzed using Microsoft Office Excel®. Bibliometric analysis allowed for the identification of the countries that publish the most on seeds and the species involved in the research. Among them, the USA stands out with the highest number of publications, primarily focusing on soybeans, particularly in the fields of genetic improvement and seed physiology.
Estimativa da erosão hídrica no município de Carmo do Rio Claro, Minas Gerais
Authors: Martins Jordana Roberta Silva , Ferreira Samantha Martins , Lense Guilherme Henrique Expedito , Sabonaro Débora Zumkeller
Published: December 2023

O município de Carmo do Rio Claro, está situado no entorno do Reservatório da Usina Hidrelétrica de Furnas, no sudeste do Brasil, uma área rica em recursos hídricos. Nessa região a erosão hídrica é um grave problema ambiental, principalmente nas áreas com cultivos agrícolas. A hipótese do trabalho é que existem áreas no entorno do Reservatório da Usina Hidrelétrica de Furnas com elevadas perdas de solo. O presente estudo tem como objetivo estimar a erosão hídrica na região do Município de Carmo do Rio Claro, sudeste do Brasil. A erosão hídrica foi estimada por meio do modelo RUSLE com auxílio de técnicas de geoprocessamento. A perda total de solo na região foi estimada em aproximadamente 1.740.000 toneladas, com uma perda média de solo de 16,4 Mg ha-1 ano-1. As áreas com maiores perdas de solo se encontram em locais de maior declividade associados a cultivos agrícolas e áreas não vegetadas. Algumas áreas com altas taxas de erosão hídrica estão situadas nas margens do Reservatório de Furnas o que pode intensificar o assoreamento e depreciação da qualidade da água. Essas áreas devem ser priorizadas para a adoção de práticas conservacionistas do solo.
PENGARUH ICE BREAKING TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR SISWA PADA POKOK BAHASAN FPB DAN KPK KELAS V SDN KRAMAT 01 BANGKALAN
Authors: Alfiyatin Yuliana
Published: December 2023

Berdasarkan hasil observasi di SDN Kramat 01 Bangkalan, tepatnya di kelas V menunjukkan bahwa suasana pembelajaran yang monoton sebab Guru menerapkan pembelajaran konvensional yaitu menjelaskan, memberi contoh dan memberi tugas serta pembahasan dalam proses pembelajaran. Hal tersebut memunculkan rasa bosan dan kurangnya rasa semangat pada sebagian siswa sehingga banyak siswa yang kurang memperhatikan guru saat menjelaskan materi pembelajaran, akibatnya hasil belajar belum mampu untuk dicapai. Dibuktikan dengan hasil belajaran siswa banyak yang mendapatkan nilai di bawah KKM (Kriteria kelulusan minimal) yaitu 70, serta secara klasikal kurang dari 80% siswa secara klasikal yang mendapat nilai di atas KKM.

Peneliti ingin menerapkan inovasi pembelajaran yang dapat membantu siswa dalam meningkatkan semangat siswa dalam belajar dan hasil belajarnya. Salah satu alternatifnya yang dapat dikembangkan untuk membantu permasalahan tersebut adalah melalui permainan ice breaking diharapkan siswa menjadi semangat dalam belajar dan menjaga konsentrasi dan perhatian dalam melakukan proses pembelajaran menjadi lebih baik dan siswa dapat memahami materi yang disampaikan oleh guru.
Els Deseiximents de Pere Pou contra Fals Amor, una polèmica literària del segle XV: 1. Transmissió textual i text crític
Authors: Martí Sadurní
Published: December 2023

This article is the first stage in my research about the literary polemic caused by the publication, on March 23, 1458, in the monastery of Valldonzella, of the Deseiximents contra Fals Amor by the Barcelonian knight Pere Pou. The thirty texts that conform this epistolary controversy, purely literary in nature, imitate battle letters and contemporary processes of detachment, so well documented in Catalan. The two manuscripts that transmit Pou’s Deseiximents show the interaction of eleven participants, some well-identified within mid-fifteenth-century Catalan literary circles, others totally unknown. The following pages contain a description of the manuscripts, a study of the recensions of witnesses and a proposal for a critical text.
Этнологические исследования в институте гуманитарных исследований УрО РАН
Authors: Черных А.В.
Published: December 2023

The article consideres the main activities of the ethnological research sector. The features, regions and methods of conducting field research are noted; one of the results of expeditionary work was forming a significant and unique archive of field materials. The ongoing research related to the study of traditional culture of the peoples of the Urals, ethnically dispersed groups of the peoples in the Urals and Russia – Germans, Bulgarians, Koreans, Belarusians, Chuvash, Gypsies, issues of national policy and modern ethnic processes and interethnic interaction is analyzed.

The formation of a significant collection of folklore materials has led to the emergence of several projects and a series of editions aimed at publishing folklore heritage. The appendix contains a bibliography of selected publications of the Department for the period 2012–2021.
Институт гуманитарных исследований ПФИЦ УрО РАН в китаеведческих научных проектах Пермского края
Authors: Каменских М.С.
Published: December 2023

The article analyzes the current situation of Russian Sinology and its development in the Perm region. The resource opportunities of sinology in Perm are presented, as well as the main projects implemented in the last 15 years.It is concluded that there are good opportunities in the Perm region for the development of its own sinology school, but it is necessary to ensure the training of specialists.
Железные инструменты для кожевенного производства в пермском Предуралье (эпоха средневековья)
Authors: Смертин А.Р.
Published: December 2023

The article deals with a separate group of specialized tannery tools from materials of the Permian Urals in the Middle Ages. The chemical composition of the soils of the region does not provide preservation of organic materials including hides and leather. The main source for studying leather industry in Kama Urals are iron tools. Tools made of iron, in contrast to bone and wooden ones, had a special working part – a sharp blade. First of all, they were intended for scraping, cutting and piercing. The whole toolkit for tannery is represented by scrapers, specialized knives with an upward bent end, awls and needles. Scrapers were a special kind of tools, they are practically not represented in the collections of Eastern Europe and they have not been analyzed in local materials before. In this work, Prikamsky scrapers are first introduced into scientific turnover, analogies to them were found in Western Siberia. To estimate the level of tannery the metallographic analysis of several instruments from each category was performed. For all products, the raw material was mainly steel, less often crystalline iron. The quality of production of all forgings is at a high level, which indicates a conscious approach of the Kama blacksmiths to the manufacture of specialized tools for leather production.
Leite para os Trópicos! Consumo, produção e políticas públicas no Brasil, 1889-1964
Authors: Brinkmann Sören
Published: December 2023

“Leite para os Tropicos” pode ser localizado na interface entre a história sanitária, econômica e administrativa. Como o trabalho de pesquisa mais abrangente sobre o leite até o momento, o livro enriquece o (extenso) estado da pesquisa sobre a história da intervenção estatal nas áreas de higiene e saúde pública. Ele lança uma luz multifacetada sobre o desenvolvimento e as condições de produção na pecuária leiteira e é um acréscimo importante ao foco clássico na indústria do café no início do século XX. Além disso, este estudo faz um importante trabalho pioneiro com relação ao surgimento de instituições estatais. Usando o exemplo do abastecimento de leite, que se baseava em cadeias de suprimento suprarregionais, Brinkmann mostra quais objetivos concretos de política econômica ou de saúde pública orientavam as autoridades responsáveis em cada um dos momentos examinados.
Foxa2 attenuates steatosis and inhibits the NF-κB/IKK signaling pathway in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Yang Li , Ma Qiang , Chen Jiayu , Kong Xiangcai , Yu Xiaohui , Wang Wei
Published: December 2023

Objective

Forkhead box a2 (Foxa2) is proven to be an insulin-sensitive transcriptional regulator and affects hepatic steatosis. This study aims to investigate the mechanism by which Foxa2 affects nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

Animal and cellular models of NAFLD were constructed using high-fat diet (HFD) feeding and oleic acid (OA) stimulation, respectively. NAFLD mice received tail vein injections of either an overexpressing negative control (oe-NC) or Foxa2 (oe-Foxa2) for four weeks. HepG2 cells were transfected with oe-NC and oe-Foxa2 for 48 h before OA stimulation. Histological changes and lipid accumulation were assessed using hematoxylin-eosin staining and oil red O staining, respectively. Expression of Foxa2, NF-κB/IKK pathway proteins, lipid synthesis proteins, and fatty acid β-oxidation protein in HFD mice and OA-induced HepG2 cells was detected using western blot.

Results

Foxa2 expression was downregulated in HFD mice and OA-induced HepG2 cells. Foxa2 overexpression attenuated lipid accumulation and liver injury, and reduced the levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, total cholesterol, or triglyceride in HFD mice and OA-induced HepG2 cells. Moreover, Foxa2 overexpression decreased the expression of lipid synthesis proteins and increased fatty acid β-oxidation protein expression in the liver tissues. Furthermore, overexpression of Foxa2 downregulated the expression of p-NF-κB/NF-κB and p-IKK/IKK in OA-induced HepG2 cells. Additionally, lipopolysaccharide (NF-κB/IKK pathway activator) administration reversed the downregulation of lipid synthesis proteins and the upregulation of fatty acid β-oxidation protein.

Conclusion

Foxa2 expression is downregulated in NAFLD. Foxa2 ameliorated hepatic steatosis and inhibited the activation of the NF-κB/IKK signaling pathway.
Erken Çocukluk Döneminde Özel Gereksinime Yönelik Değerlendirme ve Tanılama Sürecine İlişkin Yürütülmüş Araştırmaların İncelenmesi
Authors: AKSOY Funda , YILDIRIM PARLAK Şeyda
Published: December 2023

Erken çocukluk dönemi çocukların gelecekteki yaşantılarında büyük bir rol oynadığı yadsınamaz bir gerçektir. Özellikle özel gereksinimli çocukların bu dönemde desteklenmelerinin gelecekteki yaşantılarını kaliteli ve bağımsız sürdürmelerini sağladığı bilinmektedir. Bu bağlamda çocukların sahip olduğu yetersizliklerin, erken dönemde fark edilerek uygun müdahalelerde bulunulması gerekmektedir. Bu dönemde gerçekleştirilen değerlendirme ve tanılamaya yönelik çeşitli araştırmalar bulunmaktadır. Bu araştırmanın amacı, alan yazında yer alan erken çocukluk döneminde değerlendirme ve tanılamaya yönelik yapılmış araştırmaların katılımcı özellikleri, uygulamacıları ve yöntemsel özellikler vb. çeşitli kriterlere yönelik incelenmesidir. Belirlenen kriterler doğrultusunda 17 araştırma incelenmiştir. Araştırmaların çoğunlukla yetersizlik türlerinin erken belirtilerinin saptanması, tarama ve gelişimi izleme üzerine yapıldığı görülmüştür. Araştırmanın sonunda gelecekteki araştırmalara yönelik çeşitli önerilere yer verilmiştir.
Nüfus Coğrafyası Konularına Yönelik Bir Karşılaştırılma: 1939-1942 ve 2019 Basımı Lise Coğrafya Ders Kitapları
Authors: ŞAHİN Vedat , ŞAHİN Sedat
Published: December 2023

Nüfus coğrafyasına ait konular coğrafya ders kitaplarının temel unsurlarından birisidir. Her dönemin coğrafya ders kitabı kendi özelliğini yansıtır. Bu çerçevede nüfus coğrafyası konuları Osmanlı devleti zamanında coğrafya ders müfredatlarında yer almıştır. Bu kitaplar cumhuriyetin ilk döneminde de okutulmaya devam etmiş, zaman zaman güncellemeler yapılmıştır. Bu çalışma, 1939-1942 yıllarında ve 2019 yılında basılmış lise coğrafya ders kitaplarında yer alan nüfus coğrafyası konularını ele almakta ve bunların içerik olarak benzer ve farklıklarını incelemektedir. Çalışmada, Türkiye’de lise düzeyi için resmi olarak onaylanan 1939, 1942 ve 2019 basımı coğrafya ders kitapları karşılaştırılmıştır. Nitel araştırma yöntemiyle gerçekleştirilen bu araştırma, doküman incelemesine dayanmaktadır. Çalışmanın sonucunda her iki döneme ait coğrafya ders kitaplarının, kendi zamanları itibariyle güncel nüfus coğrafyası verileri barındırdığı görülmüştür. Bununla birlikte 1939-1942 dönemi coğrafya ders kitapları bölgesel coğrafya anlayışına uygun hazırlanmıştır. Buna karşılık 2019 basımı coğrafya kitapları sistematik coğrafya yaklaşımı ile hazırlanmış ve nüfus coğrafyası konuları da buna uygun olarak yer almıştır. 1939-1942 dönemi coğrafya dersi öğretimi anlayışında bölgesel coğrafya yaklaşımı belirleyici bir faktördür. Bu bağlamda lise ikinci sınıf ve üçüncü sınıfta okutulan ders kitapları bölgesel coğrafya anlayışına göre hazırlanmıştır. Günümüzde Türkiye’de ortaöğretimde coğrafya öğretimi tema bazlı olduğundan nüfus coğrafyası konuları da kitaplarda buna uygun olarak işlenmiştir. 2019 basımı coğrafya kitaplarında öğreneğin Türkiye’de nüfusun gelişimi konusu ile ilgili olarak adrese dayalı nüfus kayıt sistemi (ADNKS) açıklanmış ve bu sisteme ait çeşitli veriler kullanılmıştır. Buna karşılık 1939 dönemi coğrafya kitaplarında henüz ADNKS kurulmadığından kitap da bundan bahsedilmemiştir. 1939 basımı Umumi Coğrafya ders kitabında ırklar, dinler ve diller konusu bir bölüm olarak nispeten genişçe yer almıştır. 2019 basımı kitaplarda ise bu konulara doğrudan yer verilmemiştir.
Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity of Aqueous and Hydro-Ethanolic Extracts of Ficus capensis, Newbouldia laevis and Carpolobia lutea
Authors: Sibri Jean François , Akakpo-Akue Joël , Okou Obou Constantin , Kple Tatiana Kangah Mireille
Published: December 2023

Scientific interest in the search for natural antioxidants (secondary metabolites) in medicinal plants has increased considerably in recent years, as free radicals are at the root of many diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of aqueous and hydroethanol extracts from the leaves of a basic plant product consisting of equal quantities of Ficus capensis, Newbouldia laevis and Carpolobia lutea. Quantitative determination of antioxidant activity was based on the flavonoid content of the base plant product. It was assessed by DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-l-picrylhydrazyl) reduction tests and ferric ion reducing power (FRAP). The results of this study showed that the hydro-ethanol extract of the basic plant product is richer in flavonoids than that of the aqueous extract. In addition, the ICs50 of the aqueous and hydro-ethanolic extracts of the base plant product with DPPH were 2.13 ± 0.01 µg/mL and 1.19 ± 0.03 µg/mL respectively. In the FRAP test, the reducing powers of the hydroethanolic extract were generally higher than those of the aqueous extract at all concentrations tested. Particularly at the high concentration of 10 µg/mL, the reducing powers of the aqueous and hydroethanol extracts of the base plant product are 435.86 ± 1.29 µg/mL and 453.68 ± 0.71 µg/mL respectively. The hydroethanol extract therefore has better antioxidant activity than the aqueous extract.
Soil Quality: A Critical Review
Authors: Pandey Rohit , Kori Shubhanjali , Jejal Anand Dinesh , Kurmi Pragya , Patel Rajendra , Raj Sumit , Muniya Anil , Nandeha Nirjharnee
Published: December 2023

From plot to national scales, sampling, analysis, and visual inspection of soil are common methods used to evaluate its condition and potential for use. However, due to the complexity and site-specificity of soils, the legacy impacts of past land use, and trade-offs across ecosystem services, selecting relevant soil parameters and interpreting measurements are not simple tasks. Here, we go over the definition, methods of assessment, and choices and interpretations of indicators for soil quality and related concepts. Assessing soil condition and potential usage involves a range of methods, from small-scale sampling to nationwide analyses. Despite their prevalence, these approaches face challenges due to the intricate nature of soils, their site-specific characteristics, historical land use impacts, and the need to balance various ecosystem services. Selecting pertinent soil parameters and interpreting measurements becomes a complex task. In this context, we delve into the definition, assessment methods, and the choices and interpretations of indicators related to soil quality. Our focus is on widely used indicators within agricultural land use. Notably, explicit evaluations of soil quality for specific risks, functions, and ecosystem services remain limited. Furthermore, there is a scarcity of systems providing clear frameworks for interpreting measured indicator values, hampering their acceptance by both policymakers and land managers. We explore innovative indicators that shed light on often overlooked soil properties and processes. Biological/biochemical indicators are under-represented but show great potential. Soil quality assessment should specify targeted soil threats, functions and ecosystem services. Increasingly interactive assessment tools must be developed with target users.
Monograph: Acute Toxicity, Phytochemical Analysis and Ethnomedicinal Study of Aqueous (Leaf and Stem Back) Extracts of three Ethnomedicinal plants (Macaranga hurifolia, Mareya micrantha, and Mallotus oppositifolius) from Ivorian Pharmacopoeia on Rats
Authors: Viviane Yapo Yomeh Cynthia , Séverin Katou Yapo , Ange Konan Gbê Kouakou N’dri , Ernest Zougrou N’Guessan , Eric-Kevin Bolou Gbouhouri , Noël Zirihi Guédé
Published: December 2023

Macaranga hurifolia (ZG02), Mallotus oppositifolius (ZG04), and Mareya micrantha (ZG08) are ethnomedicinal plants belong to Euphorbiaceae family Which are frequently used in treating various diseases in Ivory Coast. The aim of this study is to determine the phytochemical composition and safety level of these three plants.

Phytochemical assays were conducted using tubes following standard methods. Acute toxicity was assessed according to OECD 423 guidelinesThe rats were divided into fifteen groups of three rats each, 4 control groups,4ZG02 groups, 4 ZG04 groups, and 3 ZG08 groups).

Results of phytochemical analysis revealed that ZG02 contains polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, gallotannins, and saponins. ZG04 contains polyphenols, flavonoids, catechin tannins, saponins, as well as sterols and terpenoids.While ZG08 contains polyphenols, flavonoids, gallotannins, catechin tannins, saponins, as well as sterols and terpenoids.

Regarding acute toxicity, administration of the aqueous extracts for the determination of acute toxicity of ZG02 and ZG04, did not produce any mortality in the rats for dosages of up to 2000 mg/kg. Thus, the LD50 (lethal dose for 50% of the population) of ZG02 and ZG04 is greater than 2000 mg/kg of body weight. However, the treatment of ZG08 at 300 mg/kg of body weight, caused a modification in the behavior of the test animals, while the treatment at 2000 mg/kg of body weight resulted in the death of all 3 tested ras. The LD50 of ZG08 is equal to 500 mg/kg of body weight.

In conclusion, the presence of rich active phytochemical, justifying the traditional uses of the plant. ZG02 and ZG04 show no oral toxicity, while ZG08 is toxic through this route
Effect of Applying Boron, Zinc, and Manganese Foliarly on the Yield Attributes and Yield of the Potato (Solanum tuberosum) Cultivar Kufri Chipsona-1 in the Gwalior Climate
Authors: Sharma Avinash , Aakash  , Singh Dheerendra , Singh Veer , Bhayal Divya , Rajput Bharti
Published: December 2023

The current study was conducted during Rabi 2018–19 at the All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato, which was located in the Department of Horticulture at Rajmata Vijyaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalya, Gwalior (M.P.). The purpose of the experiment was to determine how different foliar treatment concentrations of boron, zinc, and manganese affected the production characteristics and yield of the potato variety Kufri Chipsona-1 in Gwalior climate conditions. Eight foliar spray treatments of micronutrients were included in the experiment. Three replications of each of these treatments were arranged in a Randomized Block Design and statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance methods. 'F' test was used to determine treatment significance. The application of zinc, manganese, and boron had a substantial impact on the yield characteristics and yield of potatoes, according to the treatment. In treatment T8 (Boron + Zinc + Manganese), the highest number of tubers (27.67/plant) and weights of tubers (680 g/plant) were noted. It is determined that using boron, zinc, and manganese would increase crop yields in potato farming under the climatic circumstances of Gwalior.
Strategies for Controlling Campylobacter in Poultry Production: A Comprehensive Review of Challenges and Potential Solutions
Authors: Akinmolayan Tosin Akin , Alao Jude Oluwapelumi , Wilkie Eunice Damilola , Odeyemi Daniel Abayomi , Akintoyese Taofikat Olatundun , Owolabi Abosede Yetunde
Published: December 2023

Campylobacteriosis, a major foodborne illness caused by Campylobacter, poses significant challenges in poultry production. This review examines strategies to mitigate Campylobacter prevalence and foodborne outbreaks in poultry. Antibiotic therapy is limited due to Campylobacter's antibiotic resistance. Natural alternatives, including bacteriocins, phages, probiotics, essential oils, and plant-derived compounds, show promise in combating Campylobacter and improving meat safety. Biosecurity measures and hygiene practices are crucial in preventing Campylobacter introduction and colonization. Strict protocols and cleanliness reduce contamination. Nutritional interventions and vaccination strategies enhance disease resistance and immune responses in poultry. Nanotechnology, particularly ZnO nanoparticles, exhibits antimicrobial efficacy against Campylobacter and other bacteria. Electrostatic interaction with cell walls and the production of reactive oxygen species disrupt bacterial membranes and intracellular components. A comprehensive approach integrating natural alternatives, biosecurity, nutrition, and nanotechnology is necessary for effective Campylobacter control. Continued research and adherence to hygiene practices can reduce Campylobacter contamination, improve food safety, and protect public health.
The relative size of the calcaneal tuber reflects heel strike plantigrady in African apes and humans
Authors: Prang Thomas C.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

The positional repertoire of the human‐chimpanzee last common ancestor is critical for reconstructing the evolution of bipedalism. African apes and humans share a heel strike plantigrade foot posture associated with terrestriality. Previous research has established that modern humans have a relatively large and intrinsically robust calcaneal tuber equipped to withstand heel strike forces associated with bipedal walking and running. However, it is unclear whether African apes have a relatively larger calcaneal tuber than non‐heel‐striking primates, and how this trait might have evolved among anthropoids. Here, I test the hypothesis that heel‐striking primates have a relatively larger calcaneal tuber than non‐heel‐striking primates.

Methods

The comparative sample includes 331 individuals and 53 taxa representing hominoids, cercopithecoids, and platyrrhines. Evolutionary modeling was used to test for the effect of foot posture on the relative size of the calcaneal tuber in a phylogenetic framework that accounts for adaptation and inertia. Bayesian evolutionary modeling was used to identify selective regime shifts in the relative size of the calcaneal tuber among anthropoids.

Results

The best fitting evolutionary model was a Brownian motion model with regime‐dependent trends characterized by relatively large calcaneal tubers among African apes and humans. Evolutionary modeling provided support for an evolutionary shift toward a larger calcaneal tuber at the base of the African ape and human clade.

Conclusions

The results of this study support the view that African apes and humans share derived traits related to heel strike plantigrady, which implies that humans evolved from a semi‐terrestrial quadrupedal ancestor.
Tailored rheological development in OPC systems by controlled ettringite precipitation and its effect on compressive strength
Authors: Jakob Cordula , Jansen Daniel , Pott Ursula , Stephan Dietmar , Dengler Joachim , Wolf Julian Johannes , Neubauer Jürgen
Published: December 2023

The control of rheological properties is gaining in importance to meet the special requirements for cementitious materials in novel technologies such as 3D‐printing. A deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of cement hydration is necessary to customize the mix design to the specific application.

The hydration of OPC is mainly characterized by the silicate and aluminate reaction. The aluminate reaction is especially relevant for the early rheological development, whereas the formation of C‐S‐H (silicate reaction) is responsible for the later hardening of the hydrating paste.

A hydration control agent is used to delay the initial aluminate reaction to a defined point in time. When no additional mixing occurs during this period of rapid ettringite precipitation, the cement paste stiffens to a solid cement stone. However, when the sample is mixed during this period, the workability of the paste is retained. The rheological changes can be correlated directly to the magnitude of ettringite formation. Additionally, the compressive strength and pore size distribution of all systems (reference, HCA, HCA with additional mixing) are investigated to analyze the long‐term properties. These results predict future customized mix designs in various application fields.
Melatonin supports nonsurgical periodontal treatment in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and periodontitis: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Sarac Gul Yagmur , Kose Oguz , Altin Ahmet , Yemenoglu Hatice , Arslan Hatice , Akyildiz Kerimali , Yilmaz Adnan
Published: December 2023

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM)‐associated hyperinflammatory host response significantly provokes periodontal tissue destruction. In this context, the support of nonsurgical periodontal therapy in diabetics with host modulation agents is a current field of study. This clinical study aims to investigate the clinical efficacy of melatonin supplementation and discuss its possible biological mechanisms in nonsurgical periodontal treatment in patients with DM and periodontitis through some fundamental markers.

Methods

In this randomized controlled and single‐blind study, 27 of 55 diabetic patients with periodontitis (stage III/IV and grade C) underwent full‐mouth scaling and root planing (fmSRP) alone and 28 patients underwent melatonin administration (6 mg daily, 30 days) in addition to fmSRP (full‐mouth scaling and root planing plus melatonin, fmSRP‐mel). The potential therapeutic contribution of melatonin was evaluated clinically and biochemically (gingival crevicular fluid RANKL, OPG, MMP‐8, and serum IL‐1β levels) at 3rd and 6th months.

Results

Melatonin (tablet, 6 mg daily, 30 days) did not cause any local or systemic side effects. fmSRP alone resulted in significant reduction in serum IL‐1β levels, pocket depths, gingival inflammation, and gingival crevicular fluid RANKL and MMP‐8 levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, melatonin supplementation resulted in a more significant decrease in bleeding and pocket depth scores at probing, especially at 3 months (p < 0.05). Furthermore, RANKL and MMP‐8 levels were significantly lower at 3 months and IL‐1β levels at 6 months compared to the control group (p < 0.05). However, OPG levels were not affected significantly by the treatments (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Melatonin, as a host modulation agent, significantly increases the clinical efficacy of fmSRP. The reduction in periodontal inflammation and pocket depths may be a result of marked suppression of RANKL‐associated osteoclastogenesis and extracellular matrix damage by melatonin.
Model of mesopelagic fish predation on eggs and larvae shows benefits of tuna spawning under full moon
Authors: Ottmann Daniel , Langbehn Tom J. , Reglero Patricia , Alvarez‐Berastegui Diego , Fiksen Øyvind
Published: December 2023

Most mesopelagic fish are small planktivores that migrate up at nightfall to feed in the safety of darkness and descend to depth at dawn to escape visual predators. However, the trophic roles can reverse since mesopelagic fishes also predate eggs and larvae of their predators. We use the Atlantic bluefin tuna as a model species to test the hypothesis that fishes in the open ocean synchronize spawning to moon‐lit nights (when mesopelagic fishes avoid near‐surface waters) to increase offspring fitness. Our analysis over two decades of field observations shows that tuna spawn most intensively the week before full moon. This fits predictions from a mechanistic model where spawning around full moon increases offspring fitness by two orders of magnitude due to low predation from mesopelagic fishes. Circalunar patterns of food availability can also favor fitness of offspring spawned the days before full moon. Our findings suggest that mesopelagic fishes may have an important impact on pelagic fish through predation of early life stages and cause an evolutionary drive to synchronize spawning to the lunar cycle.
Analytical improvements and assessment of long‐term performance of the oxidation–denitrifier method
Authors: Moretti Simone , Duprey Nicolas N. , Foreman Alan D. , Arns Anthea , Brömme Sven , Jung Jonathan , Ai Xuyuan E. , Auderset Alexandra , Bieler Aaron L. , Eck Camino , Farmer Jesse , Hinnenberg Barbara , Lacerra Matthew , Leichliter Jennifer , Lüdecke Tina , Oleynik Sergey , Rubach Florian , Schmitt Mareike , Vink Marissa , Wald Tanja , Yehudai Maayan , Sigman Daniel M. , Martínez‐García Alfredo
Published: December 2023

The analysis of the nitrogen (N) isotopic composition of organic matter bound to fossil biomineral structures (BB‐δ15N) using the oxidation–denitrifier (O–D) method provides a novel tool to study past changes in N cycling processes.

Methods

We report a set of methodological improvements to the O–D method, including (a) a method for sealing the reaction vials in which the oxidation of organic N to NO3− takes place, (b) a recipe for bypassing the pH adjustment step before the bacterial conversion of NO3− to N2O, and (c) a method for storing recrystallized dipotassium peroxodisulfate (K2S2O8) under Ar atmosphere.

Results

The new sealing method eliminates the occasional contamination and vial breakage that occurred previously while increasing sample throughput. The protocol for bypassing pH adjustment does not affect BB‐δ15N, and it significantly reduces the processing time. Storage of K2S2O8 reagent under Ar atmosphere produces stable oxidation blanks over more than 3.5 years. We report analytical blanks, accuracy, and precision for this methodology from eight users over the course of ~3.5 years of analyses at the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry. Our method produces analytical blanks characterized by low N content (0.30 ± 0.13 nmol N, 1σ, n = 195) and stable δ15N (−2.20 ± 3.13‰, n = 195). The analysis of reference amino acid standards USGS 40 and USGS 65 indicates an overall accuracy of −0.23 ± 0.35‰ (1σ, n = 891). The analysis of in‐house fossil standards gives similar analytical precision (1σ) across a range of BB‐δ15N values and biominerals: zooxanthellate coral standard PO‐1 (6.08 ± 0.21‰, n = 267), azooxanthellate coral standard LO‐1 (10.20 ± 0.28‰, n = 258), foraminifera standard MF‐1 (5.92 ± 0.28‰, n = 243), and tooth enamel AG‐Lox (4.06 ± 0.49‰, n = 78).

Conclusions

The methodological improvements significantly increase sample throughput without compromising analytical precision or accuracy down to 1 nmol of N.
Eritrean teachers’ challenges of their enthusiasm for digital competency and its impact on teaching performance
Authors: Elias Samson Kifletsion , Musengamana Irene , Mebrahtu Amare Teclemicael
Published: December 2023

The interaction of education and digital technology today is one of the key characteristics of development. Many industrialized nations place a high value on digital learning practices and have created several national strategic plans to encourage and support the use of digital practices in education. In its reform and development of education, Eritrea has also made the strategic decision to assist educational modernization using a clear digital policy. Eritrea has made significant advancements in the creation of technology infrastructure, the use of digital resources, innovative teaching methods, and technology-supported educational management to date. However, there are still issues with execution brought on by teachers' preparation, public spending, and human resources. The study collected useful information from n = 141 active student-teachers participating in post-graduate diploma (PGD) practice at Asmara College of Education utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Results have been reported using special and original quotes together with both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study's conclusions show that teachers' enthusiasm for using ICT in the classroom will have a favorable effect on their ability to teach, assisting them in becoming aware of the modernized world and adjusting to its expectations. The knowledge of the teachers has a big impact on digital activities. Additionally, the research has revealed that Eritrean school instructors have little knowledge of using ICT in teaching and learning to improve student performance. The perception of teachers' preparation for digital competency is positive, even though a noteworthy problem is being highlighted that prevents teaching and learning from succeeding. They have a very high and favorable opinion of how the use of technology has affected their ability to teach.
Health Economics
Authors: Street Andrew , Gutacker Nils
Published: December 2023

This Element examines economic perspectives on improving quality and safety in healthcare. Though competition is generally recognised by economists as an important driver of improvement, it may not work so straightforwardly in healthcare – in part because some services are provided by very few organisations, but also because people are not always easily able to judge healthcare quality and rarely have to pay the full price for services. Different approaches for stimulating improvement are therefore needed, and the authors look at examples from the care home, primary care, and hospital sectors. They emphasise the need for economic evaluation of improvement efforts, based on the principle that improvement activities should only be undertaken if the benefits are worth at least the costs of implementing and running them. Using examples, they explain the economic approach to evaluating how benefits and costs of improvement efforts can be compared by applying cost-effectiveness analysis. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.
In Pursuit of Carbon Neutrality
Authors: Zhang Hao
Published: December 2023

China's goal of carbon neutrality by 2060 requires a significant transformation of energy systems and the economy, raising critical questions about the domestic energy legal and regulatory systems. This book critically analyses the development and implementation of energy laws and regulations related to crucial strategies and pathways towards carbon neutrality, namely decarbonising power supply, enabling fuel switching, electrifying end-use in transport and industry, and adopting carbon removal mechanisms. It offers rich legal details and insights into regulatory processes and arrangements that underpin energy market reform and liberalisation, while also examining the role of law and regulatory measures in promoting technological advancements and supply chains for decarbonisation, with a focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency and storage, electric vehicles, critical transition minerals and carbon removal mechanisms.
Bibliometric and social network analysis of a Clinical and Translational Resource awardee: An Oklahoma experience 2014–2021
Authors: Campbell Janis E. , Ogunsanya Motolani E. , Holmes Nicole , VanWagoner Tim , James Judith
Published: December 2023

Background:

Social Network Analysis is a method of analyzing coauthorship networks or relationships through graph theory. Institutional Development Award (IDeA) Networks for Clinical and Translational Research (IDeA-CTR) was designed to expand the capability for clinical and translational research to enhance National Institutes of Health funding.

Methods:

All publications from a cohort of clinical and translational scientists in Oklahoma were collected through a PubMed search for 2014 through 2021 in October 2022. For this study’s bibliometric portion, we pulled the citations from iCite in November of 2022.

Results:

There were 2,391 articles published in 1,019 journals. The number of papers published by year increased from 56 in 2014 to 448 in 2021. The network had an average of 6.4 authors per paper, with this increasing by year from 5.3 in 2014 to 6.9 in 2021. The average journal impact factor for the overall network was 7.19, with a range from 0.08 to 202.73. The Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources (OSCTR) network is a small world network with relatively weak ties.

Conclusions:

This study provides an overview of coauthorship in an IDeA-CTR collaboration. We show the growth and structure of coauthorship in OSCTR, highlighting the importance of understanding and fostering collaboration within research networks.
Urban Greening Could Help Achieve Carbon Neutrality Goals
Authors: Fan Jiwen
Published: December 2023

A new modeling framework highlights that urban greening is a sustainable solution to achieve environmental co-benefits in mitigating heat and carbon emissions.
Eruption Now Unlikely Near Icelandic Town
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: December 2023

Scientists and local authorities had been tracking the eruption’s precursors for weeks and evacuated residents. Then the magma stalled.
Local Fishers Help Uncover Coral Clinging to Underwater Cliffs
Authors: Chapman Andrew
Published: December 2023

Their knowledge led to more accurate seafloor maps and a hidden trove of biodiversity in the Labrador Sea.
Animal protein intake is directly associated with serum level of pentraxin 3 in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Navab Fatemeh , Foshati Sahar , Bagherniya Mohammad , Askari Gholamreza , Moeinzadeh Firouzeh , Gholaminejad Alieh , Clark Cain C. T. , Rouhani Mohammad Hossein
Published: December 2023

Inflammation plays an important role in Cardiovascular disease (CVD) pathogenesis as the main cause of mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Despite the relevance of nutrition and dietary intakes for inflammation status, the role of dietary protein sources remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the different types of dietary protein and pentraxin 3 (PTX3) levels in HD patients. In this multi-center cross-sectional study, 227 adult patients undergoing HD for a minimum 90 days were recruited. A validated 168-item food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary intakes. Also, 5 ml blood samples were collected from each patient to measure the concentration of serum PTX3. Overall, 227 patients, including 63 women and 164 men, with a mean age of 58 years, participated in this study. There was a greater intake of animal protein per kilogram dry weight among patients with higher levels of PTX3 (0.46 vs. 0.54 g/kg; P = 0.035). In contrast, consumption of total protein and plant protein per kilogram dry weight was not different across PTX3 levels. Moreover, the chance of increased PTX3 concentration was directly associated with a one-unit increase in animal protein intake per kilogram dry weight, after adjusting for confounders. We did not observe any association between one-unit increases in plant protein intake per kilogram dry weight and chance of increased PTX3. In conclusion, animal protein intake was directly associated with circulating PTX3.
Low-frequency magnetic response of gold nanoparticles
Authors: Harke Saba , Habibpourmoghadam Atefeh , Evlyukhin Andrey B. , Calà Lesina Antonio , Chichkov Boris N.
Published: December 2023

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) exposed to low frequency magnetic fields have shown promise in enhancing biological processes, such as cellular reprogramming. Despite the experimental evidence, a comprehensive understanding of the underlying physical principles and the corresponding theory remains elusive. The most common hypothesis is that functionalized nanoparticles transiently amplify magnetic fields, leading to improved cellular reprogramming efficiency. However, a detailed investigation on this topic is lacking. This paper bridges this knowledge gap by conducting a comprehensive investigation on the magnetic response of surface-modified AuNPs exposed to magnetic fields with frequencies up to hundreds of MHz. Starting with the inherent properties of bulk gold material, we explore a wide range of magnetic susceptibilities that might result from the redistribution of charge carriers due to bond molecules on the particle surfaces. Through analytical models and numerical electromagnetic simulations, we examine various geometric factors that can enhance the magnetic response, including the number of particles, spatial distribution, size, and shape. Our broad investigation provides researchers with analytical and numerical estimates of the magnetic response of nanoparticles, and the associated limits that can be expected. We found that a magnetic field enhancement comparable to the incident field requires very high magnetic susceptibilities, well beyond the values measured in functionalized gold nanoparticles thus far.
CETP and APOA2 polymorphisms are associated with weight loss and healthy eating behavior changes in response to digital lifestyle modifications
Authors: Kim Meelim , Lee Seolha , Cho Eun , Hong Kyung-Won , You So-Jin , Choi Hyung Jin
Published: December 2023

Response to digital healthcare lifestyle modifications is highly divergent. This study aimed to examine the association between single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypes and clinical efficacy of a digital healthcare lifestyle modification. We genotyped 97 obesity-related SNPs from 45 participants aged 18–39 years, who underwent lifestyle modification via digital cognitive behavioral therapy for obesity for 8 weeks. Anthropometric, eating behavior phenotypes, and psychological measures were analyzed before and after the intervention to identify their clinical efficacy. CETP (rs9939224) SNP significantly predict “super-responders” with greater body mass index (BMI) reduction (p = 0.028; GG − 2.91%, GT − 9.94%), while APOA2 (rs5082) appeared to have some potential for predicting “poor-responders” with lower BMI reduction (p = 0.005; AA − 6.17%, AG + 2.05%, and GG + 5.11%). These SNPs was also associated with significant differences in eating behavior changes, healthy diet proportions, health diet diversity, emotional and restrained eating behavior changes. Furthermore, classification using gene–gene interactions between rs9939224 and rs5082 significantly predicted the best response, with a greater decrease in BMI (p = 0.038; − 11.45% for the best response group (CEPT GT/TT × APOA2 AA) vs. + 2.62% for the worst response group (CEPT GG × APOA2 AG/GG)). CETP and APOA2 SNPs can be used as candidate markers to predict the efficacy of digital healthcare lifestyle modifications based on genotype-based precision medicine.

Trial registration: NCT03465306, ClinicalTrials.gov. Registered March, 2018.