bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Stone Powder Content from Manufactured Sand Concrete on Shrinkage, Cracking, Compressive Strength, and Penetration
Authors: Zhang Mingming , Xu Jin , Li Meng , Yuan Xiaosa
Published: July 2023

The market demand for manufactured sand has grown rapidly, and the solution to the problem of optimum stone powder content from manufactured sand concrete is imminent. The workability, early age shrinkage strain and cracking, strength, chloride ion penetration, and pore structures of concrete with different stone powder contents were tested to study the influence of stone powder content from manufactured sand concrete. The test results show that the addition of stone powder is beneficial in improving the working performance of manufactured sand concrete. But at the same time, it will increase the amount of concrete water reducer and the total shrinkage strain at an early age. The workability and durability of manufactured sand concrete can be significantly improved by adding an appropriate stone powder. However, excessive stone powder will lead to a reduction in the strength and durability of manufactured sand concrete. It is suggested that the best stone powder content of concrete with a water/cement ratio of 0.32 is 10%, and that of concrete with a water/cement ratio of 0.45 should be less than 20%.
Level 3 Assessment of Highway Girder Deck Bridges according to the Italian Guidelines: Influence of Transverse Load Distribution
Authors: Santarsiero Giuseppe , Albanese Pierpaolo , Picciano Valentina , Ventura Giuseppe , Masi Angelo
Published: July 2023

The Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transportation adopted the guidelines on risk classification and management, safety assessment and monitoring of existing bridges through the Decree No. 578 dated 17 December 2020. This document must be used by all managing entities to prevent damage due to a lack of maintenance to these crucial components of the infrastructure system. The approach of the guidelines for existing bridges is developed across six levels, ranging from Level 0 to Level 5. The research work presented in this article is focused on Level 3, which pertains to preliminary assessments conducted on existing bridges. Through an automated procedure, the preliminary verification is performed by comparing bending and shear stress generated by traffic load schemes extracted from previous standards with the ones based on the current code. These loads are applied to a series of girder deck models, selected through a statistical study conducted on a database of bridges. Performance indices are derived from the comparison to evaluate the adequacy of previously designed and constructed structures by applying the load models specified in the current regulations for designing new bridges. The analysis results highlight a performance gap, which varies depending on the standard code at hand.
Lithium–Sodium Fly Ash-Derived Catalyst for the In Situ Partial Deoxygenation of Isochrysis sp. Microalgae Bio-Oil
Authors: Rahman Nur Adilah Abd , Cardenas-Lizana Fernando , Sanna Aimaro
Published: July 2023

The catalytic potential of Na and LiNa fly ash (FA) obtained through a simple solid-state synthesis was investigated for the pyrolysis of Isochrysis sp. microalgae using a fixed bed reactor at 500 °C. While both LiNa-FA and Na-FA catalysts reduced the bio-oil yield and increased char and gas production, LiNa-FA was found to enhance the quality of the resulting bio-oil by decreasing its oxygen content (−25 wt.%), increasing paraffins and olefins and decreasing its acidity. The deoxygenation activity of LiNa-FA was attributed to the presence of weak and mild base sites, which enabled dehydration, decarboxylation, ketonisation, and cracking to form olefins. The bio-oil generated with LiNa-FA contained higher amounts of alkanes, alkenes, and carbonated esters, indicating its capacity to chemisorb and partially desorb CO2 under the studied conditions. These findings suggest that LiNa-FA catalysts could be a cost-effective alternative to acidic zeolites for in situ deoxygenation of microalgae to biofuels.
Atom Transfer Radical Addition via Dual Photoredox/Manganese Catalytic System
Authors: Kostromitin Vladislav S. , Levin Vitalij V. , Dilman Alexander D.
Published: July 2023

Atom transfer radical addition of bromonitromethane and 1,2-dibromotetrafluoroethane to alkenes is described. The reaction is performed under blue light irradiation using two catalysts: 4CzIPN and manganese (II) bromide. The cyanoarene photocatalyst serves for the redox activation of starting organic bromide, while the manganese salt facilitates the trapping of the alkyl radical with the formation of the carbon–bromine bond.
A Pilot Study Evaluating LV Diastolic Function with M-Mode Measurement of Mitral Valve Movement in the Parasternal Long Axis View
Authors: Park Chan-Ho , Yoon Hee , Jo Ik-Joon , Woo Sookyoung , Heo Sejin , Chang Hansol , Lee Guntak , Park Jong-Eun , Kim Taerim , Lee Se-Uk , Hwang Sung-Yeon , Cha Won-Chul , Shin Tae-Gun
Published: July 2023

This pilot study aimed to develop a new, reliable, and easy-to-use method for the evaluation of diastolic function through the M-mode measurement of mitral valve (MV) movement in the parasternal long axis (PSLA), similar to E-point septal separation (EPSS) used for systolic function estimation. Thirty healthy volunteers from a tertiary emergency department (ED) underwent M-mode measurements of the MV anterior leaflet in the PSLA view. EPSS, A-point septal separation (APSS), A-point opening length (APOL), and E-point opening length (EPOL) were measured in the PSLA view, along with the E and A velocities and e’ velocity in the apical four-chamber view. Correlation analyses were performed to assess the relationship between M-mode and Doppler measurements, and the measurement time was evaluated. No significant correlations were found between M-mode and Doppler measurements in the study. However, M-mode measurements exhibited high reproducibility and faster acquisition, and the EPOL value consistently exceeded the APOL value, resembling the E and A pattern. These findings suggest that visually assessing the M-mode pattern on the MV anterior leaflet in the PSLA view may be a practical approach to estimating diastolic function in the ED. Further investigations with a larger and more diverse patient population are needed to validate these findings.
Chitooligosaccharide from Pacific White Shrimp Shell Chitosan Ameliorates Inflammation and Oxidative Stress via NF-κB, Erk1/2, Akt and Nrf2/HO-1 Pathways in LPS-Induced RAW264.7 Macrophage Cells
Authors: Chotphruethipong Lalita , Chanvorachote Pithi , Reudhabibadh Ratchaneekorn , Singh Avtar , Benjakul Soottawat , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Hutamekalin Pilaiwanwadee
Published: July 2023

Chitooligosaccharide (COS), found in both insects and marine sources, has several bioactivities, such as anti-inflammation and antioxidant activities. However, the mechanism of shrimp shell COS on retardation of inflammatory and antioxidant effects is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the mechanism of the aforementioned activities of COS in LPS-activated RAW264.7 macrophage cells. COS significantly improved cell viability in LPS-activated cells. COS at the level of 500 µg/mL could reduce the TNF-α, NO and IL-6 generations in LPS-activated cells (p < 0.05). Furthermore, COS could reduce ROS formation, NF-κB overactivation, phosphorylation of Erk1/2 and Akt and Nrf2/HO-1 in LPS-exposed cells. These results indicate that COS manifests anti-inflammatory activity and antioxidant action via NF-κB, Erk1/2, Akt and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling with an increasing relevance for inflammatory disorders.
Application of Methyl Jasmonate to Papaya Fruit Stored at Lower Temperature Attenuates Chilling Injury and Enhances the Antioxidant System to Maintain Quality
Authors: Li Jianhui , Azam Muhammad , Noreen Amtal , Umer Muhammad Ali , Ilahy Riadh , Akram Muhammad Tahir , Qadri Rashad , Khan Muhammad Arslan , Rehman Shoaib ur , Hussain Imtiaz , Lin Qiong , Liu Hongru
Published: July 2023

Papaya fruit has a limited shelf life due to its sensitivity to decay and chilling damage during cold storage. The application of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) is known to reduce the incidence of disease and chilling injury, and to maintain the overall quality of the papaya fruit when stored at low temperature. Consequently, the effects of postharvest MeJA (1 mM) immersion on papaya fruits during low-temperature storage (10 °C ± 2 °C) for 28 days were studied. The experiment revealed that MeJA treatment significantly decreased the papaya fruit’s weight loss, disease incidence, and chilling injury index. Furthermore, the accumulation of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide was markedly lower after the application of MeJA. In addition, MeJA treatment exhibited significantly higher total phenols, ascorbic acid, antioxidant activity, and titratable acidity in contrast to the control. Similarly, MeJA-treated papaya fruits showed higher antioxidant enzymatic activity (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase enzymes) with respect to the control fruits. In addition, MeJA reduced the soluble solids content, ripening index, pH, and sugar contents compared to the control fruits. Furthermore, MeJA-treated papaya fruit exhibited higher sensory and organoleptic quality attributes with respect to untreated papaya fruits. These findings suggested that postharvest MeJA application might be a useful approach for attenuating disease incidence and preventing chilling injury by enhancing antioxidant activities along with enhanced overall quality of papaya fruits during low-temperature storage.
Yield and Technological Quality of Pirarucu Trimming Surimi According to the Number of Washing Cycles, Rice Flour Content, and Cooking Temperature
Authors: Magalhães Gabriella Leite , Soares Júnior Manoel Soares , Caliari Márcio , Monteiro Maria Lúcia Guerra , Mársico Eliane Teixeira
Published: July 2023

This research aimed to optimize surimi production with innovative raw materials called pirarucu trimmings and broken rice grains, which are by-products from food industries. The effects of three independent variables (number of washing cycles, content, and cooking temperature of rice flour—RF) on surimi’s physical, chemical, and technological qualities were investigated through a Box–Behnken design. The number of washing cycles affected yield (77–93%), moisture (55–67%), lipids (18–35%), protein (7.15–11.88%), whiteness (46.73–64.45), chroma (8.86–13.18), hue angle (80.79–93.12°), cohesiveness (0.40–0.61), springiness (0.51–0.99), and freeze stability after 4 weeks (85.16–96.53%). RF concentration affected moisture, lipids, cohesiveness, springiness, and freeze–thaw stability after 4 weeks. RF cooking temperature affected moisture, chroma, cohesiveness, and springiness. The optimal conditions for surimi production with high yield and overall quality were three washing cycles, 6% of RF, and RF cooking temperature at 85 °C. It reveals the promising potential of both by-products to be used as an ingredient in restructured products and contribute to improving agri-industry sustainability.
CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated SlATG5 Mutagenesis Reduces the Resistance of Tomato Fruit to Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Li Yujing , Shu Pan , Xiang Lanting , Sheng Jiping , Shen Lin
Published: July 2023

Tomato fruit is highly susceptible to infection by Botrytis cinerea (B. cinerea), a dominant pathogen, during storage. Recent studies have shown that autophagy is essential for plant defense against biotic and abiotic stresses. Autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5) plays a key role in autophagosome completion and maturation, and is rapidly induced by B. cinerea, but the potential mechanisms of ATG5 in Solanum lycopersicum (SlATG5) in postharvest tomato fruit resistance to B. cinerea remain unclear. To elucidate the role of SlATG5 in tomato fruit resistant to B. cinerea, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of SlATG5 was used in this study. The results showed that slatg5 mutants were more vulnerable to B. cinerea and exhibited more severe disease symptoms and lower activities of disease-resistant enzymes, such as chitinase (CHI), β-1,3-glucanase (GLU), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO), than the wild type (WT). Furthermore, the study observed that after inoculation with B. cinerea, the relative expression levels of genes related to salicylic acid (SA) signaling, such as SlPR1, SlEDS1, SlPAD4, and SlNPR1, were higher in slatg5 mutants than in WT. Conversely, the relative expression levels of jasmonic acid (JA) signaling-related genes SlLoxD and SlMYC2 were lower in slatg5 mutants than in WT. These findings suggested that SlATG5 positively regulated the resistance response of tomato fruit to B. cinerea by inhibiting the SA signaling pathway and activating the JA signaling pathway.
Cuproptosis and Immune-Related Gene Signature Predicts Immunotherapy Response and Prognosis in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sun Zihao , Chen Xiujing , Huang Xiaoning , Wu Yanfen , Shao Lijuan , Zhou Suna , Zheng Zhu , Lin Yiguang , Chen Size
Published: July 2023

Cuproptosis and associated immune-related genes (IRG) have been implicated in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. However, their effects on lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) have not been elucidated. Therefore, we investigated the impact of cuproptosis-associated IRGs on the immunotherapy response and prognosis of LUAD using a bioinformatical approach and in vitro experiments analyzing clinical samples. Using the cuproptosis-associated IRG signature, we classified LUAD into two subtypes, cluster 1 and cluster 2, and identified three key cuproptosis-associated IRGs, NRAS, TRAV38-2DV8, and SORT1. These three genes were employed to establish a risk model and nomogram, and to classify the LUAD cohort into low- and high-risk subgroups. Biofunctional annotation revealed that cluster 2, remarkably downregulating epigenetic, stemness, and proliferation pathways activity, had a higher overall survival (OS) and immunoinfiltration abundance compared to cluster 1. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) validated the differential expression of these three genes in both subgroups. scRNA-seq demonstrated elevated expression of NRAS and SORT1 in macrophages. Immunity and oncogenic and stromal activation pathways were dramatically enriched in the low-risk subgroup, and patients in this subgroup responded better to immunotherapy. Our data suggest that the cuproptosis-associated IRG signature can be used to effectively predict the immunotherapy response and prognosis in LUAD. Our work provides enlightenment for immunotherapy response assessment, prognosis prediction, and the development of potential prognostic biomarkers for LUAD patients.
Homoarginine Associates with Carotid Intima-Media Thickness and Atrial Fibrillation and Predicts Adverse Events after Stroke
Authors: Schwieren Laura , Jensen Märit , Schulz Robert , Lezius Susanne , Laxy Elena , Milatz Magalie , Thomalla Götz , Böger Rainer , Gerloff Christian , Magnus Tim , Schwedhelm Edzard , Choe Chi-un
Published: July 2023

Homoarginine is associated with cardio- and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the underlying pathomechanisms remain elusive. Here, we evaluated the association of homoarginine with adverse events (i.e., death, stroke, and myocardial infarction) and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) in stroke patients. In the prospective bioMARKers in STROKE (MARK-STROKE) cohort, patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) were enrolled. Plasma homoarginine concentrations were analyzed and associated with clinical phenotypes in cross-sectional (374 patients) and prospective (273 patients) analyses. Adjustments for possible confounders were evaluated. A two-fold increase in homoarginine was inversely associated with the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at admission, cIMT, and prevalent atrial fibrillation (mean factor −0.68 [95% confidence interval (CI): −1.30, −0.07], −0.14 [95% CI: −0.22, −0.05]; and odds ratio 0.57 [95% CI: 0.33, 0.96], respectively). During the follow-up (median 284 [25th, 75th percentile: 198, 431] days), individuals with homoarginine levels in the highest tertile had fewer incident events compared with patients in the lowest homoarginine tertile independent of traditional risk factors (hazard ratio 0.22 [95% CI: 0.08, 0.63]). A lower prevalence of atrial fibrillation and a reduced cIMT pinpointed potential underlying pathomechanisms.
Assessment of the Health of Soils Contaminated with Ag, Bi, Tl, and Te by the Intensity of Microbiological Activity
Authors: Minnikova Tatiana , Kolesnikov Sergei , Khoroshaev Dmitry , Tsepina Natalia , Evstegneeva Natalia , Timoshenko Alena
Published: July 2023

Soil health is the basis of ecological and food security for humanity. Among the informative indicators of soil health are microbiological indicators based on the intensity of the carbon dioxide release from the soil. The reaction of the microbial community of Haplic Chernozem Loamic, Haplic Arenosols Eutric, and Haplic Cambisols Eutric to contamination with oxides and nitrates of Ag, Bi, Tl, and Te at doses of 0.5, 1, 3, 10, and 30 derived specific permissible concentrations (SPC) was analyzed in the conditions of a vegetation experiment (the exposure period was 10 days). One derived concentration is assumed to be equal to three background concentrations of the element in the soil. The carbon content of microbial biomass in Haplic Chernozem varied between the experimental options from 6 to 218 mg/kg of soil; in Haplic Arenosols, from 3 to 349 mg/kg of soil; and in Haplic Cambisols, from 7 to 294 mg/kg of soil. Microbial biomass was a more sensitive indicator of contamination by the studied pollutants than basal soil respiration. A decrease in specific microbial respiration was found when Haplic Cambisols were contaminated with Ag, Bi, Te, and Tl oxides. Te and Tl nitrates had a significant toxic effect on each type of soil. At the maximum dose of Tl and Te nitrate, a decrease in basal soil respiration of 56–96% relative to the control and an increase in the metabolic coefficient by 4–6 times was found. The toxicity series of heavy metals averaged for all types of soils in terms of microbiological activity was established: Bi > Ag > Te > Tl (oxides) and Te > Tl > Ag > Bi (nitrates). Nitrates of the elements were more toxic than oxides. Soil toxicity due to Ag, Bi, Tl, and Te contamination was dependent on soil particle size distribution, organic matter content, and soil structure. A series of soil sensitivity to changes in microbial biomass and basal soil respiration when contaminated with the studied pollutants: Haplic Arenosols > Haplic Chernozems > Haplic Cambisols. When diagnosing and assessing the health of soils contaminated with Ag, Bi, Tl, and Te, it is advisable to use indicators of soil microbiological activity.
A Parametric Family of Fuzzy Similarity Measures for Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Qayyum Madiha , Kerre Etienne E. , Ashraf Samina
Published: July 2023

Measuring the similarity between two objects and classifying them on the basis of their resemblance level has been a fundamental tool of the human mind. In an intuitionistic fuzzy environment, we find researchers that have attempted to generalize the fuzzy versions of similarity measures between fuzzy sets to their intuitionistic forms for measuring the level of similarity between the intuitionistic fuzzy sets. Though many different forms of intuitionistic fuzzy similarity measures have been introduced so far, a comparative study reveals that among all these measures, it is difficult for one to claim the existence of a single measure that alone has the capability to recognize every single pattern assigned to it. This paper presents a four-parametric family of similarity measures for intuitionistic fuzzy sets employing weighted average cardinality and intuitionistic fuzzy t-norms along with their dual t-co-norms. A combinational variation of the parameters involved in this family resulted in some of the famous similarity measures having an intuitionistic version. These new measures are analyzed for their properties, and they have shown some remarkable results. Moreover, the proposed family has a practical advantage over the other measures in the existing literature because every member not only possesses the capability of successfully recognizing any pattern assigned to it up to a fine accuracy but also a choice of different t-norms and co-norms within a single measure equips it with the capacity to portray different mindsets of a decision-maker who, besides being unbiased, can possess a deep psychology of being an optimist, pessimist, or possessing neutral behavior in general. Lastly, the members of this family are tested for their feasibility in a sensitive medical decision process of detection of COVID-19.
Art of the Kill: Designing and Testing Viral Inactivation Procedures for Highly Pathogenic Negative Sense RNA Viruses
Authors: Olejnik Judith , Hume Adam J. , Ross Stephen J. , Scoon Whitney A. , Seitz Scott , White Mitchell R. , Slutzky Ben , Yun Nadezhda E. , Mühlberger Elke
Published: July 2023

The study of highly pathogenic viruses handled under BSL-4 conditions and classified as Select Agents frequently involves the transfer of inactivated materials to lower containment levels for downstream analyses. Adhering to Select Agent and BSL-4 safety regulations requires validation or verification of the inactivation procedures, which comes with an array of challenges for each method. This includes the use of cytotoxic reagents for chemical inactivation and defining the precise inactivation parameters for physical inactivation. Here, we provide a workflow for various inactivation methods using Ebola, Nipah, and Lassa viruses as our examples. We choose three distinct inactivation methods (TRIzol/TRIzol LS, aldehyde fixation using different fixatives, and heat) to highlight the challenges of each method and provide possible solutions. We show that, whereas published chemical inactivation methods are highly reliable, the parameters for heat inactivation must be clearly defined to ensure complete inactivation. In addition to the inactivation data, we also provide examples and templates for the documentation required for approval and use of inactivation SOPs, including an inactivation report, the procedure sections of developed SOPs, and an electronic inactivation certificate that accompanies inactivated samples. The provided information can be used as a roadmap for similar studies at high and maximum containment laboratories.
Phenylpropanoid Content of Chickpea Seed Coats in Relation to Seed Dormancy
Authors: Sedláková Veronika , Zeljković Sanja Ćavar , Štefelová Nikola , Smýkal Petr , Hanáček Pavel
Published: July 2023

The physical dormancy of seeds is likely to be mediated by the chemical composition and the thickness of the seed coat. Here, we investigate the link between the content of phenylpropanoids (i.e., phenolics and flavonoids) present in the chickpea seed coat and dormancy. The relationship between selected phenolic and flavonoid metabolites of chickpea seed coats and dormancy level was assessed using wild and cultivated chickpea parental genotypes and a derived population of recombinant inbred lines (RILs). The selected phenolic and flavonoid metabolites were analyzed via the LC-MS/MS method. Significant differences in the concentration of certain phenolic acids were found among cultivated (Cicer arietinum, ICC4958) and wild chickpea (Cicer reticulatum, PI489777) parental genotypes. These differences were observed in the contents of gallic, caffeic, vanillic, syringic, p-coumaric, salicylic, and sinapic acids, as well as salicylic acid-2-O-β-d-glucoside and coniferaldehyde. Additionally, significant differences were observed in the flavonoids myricetin, quercetin, luteolin, naringenin, kaempferol, isoorientin, orientin, and isovitexin. When comparing non-dormant and dormant RILs, significant differences were observed in gallic, 3-hydroxybenzoic, syringic, and sinapic acids, as well as the flavonoids quercitrin, quercetin, naringenin, kaempferol, and morin. Phenolic acids were generally more highly concentrated in the wild parental genotype and dormant RILs. We compared the phenylpropanoid content of chickpea seed coats with related legumes, such as pea, lentil, and faba bean. This information could be useful in chickpea breeding programs to reduce dormancy.
Signaling Cross-Talk between Salicylic and Gentisic Acid in the ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma Solani’ Interaction with Sangiovese Vines
Authors: Nutricati Eliana , De Pascali Mariarosaria , Negro Carmine , Bianco Piero Attilio , Quaglino Fabio , Passera Alessandro , Pierro Roberto , Marcone Carmine , Panattoni Alessandra , Sabella Erika , De Bellis Luigi , Luvisi Andrea
Published: July 2023

“Bois noir” disease associated with ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’ seriously compromises the production and survival of grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.) in Europe. Understanding the plant response to phytoplasmas should help to improve disease control strategies. Using a combined metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis, this work, therefore, investigated the phytoplasma–grapevine interaction in red cultivar Sangiovese in a vineyard over four seasonal growth stages (from late spring to late summer), comparing leaves from healthy and infected grapevines (symptomatic and symptomless). We found an accumulation of both conjugate and free salicylic acids (SAs) in the leaves of ‘Ca. P. solani’-positive plants from early stages of infection, when plants are still asymptomatic. A strong accumulation of gentisic acid (GA) associated with symptoms progression was found for the first time. A detailed analysis of phenylpropanoids revealed a significant accumulation of hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonols, flavan 3-ols, and anthocyanin cyanidin 3-O-glucoside, which are extensively studied due to their involvement in the plant response to various pathogens. Metabolomic data corroborated by gene expression analysis indicated that phenylpropanoid biosynthetic and salicylic acid-responsive genes were upregulated in ‘Ca. P. solani-positive plants compared to -negative ones during the observed period.
Exploring the Interplay between Metabolic Pathways and Taxane Production in Elicited Taxus baccata Cell Suspensions
Authors: Perez-Matas Edgar , Garcia-Perez Pascual , Miras-Moreno Begoña , Lucini Luigi , Bonfill Mercedes , Palazon Javier , Hidalgo-Martinez Diego
Published: July 2023

Taxus cell cultures are a reliable biotechnological source of the anticancer drug paclitaxel. However, the interplay between taxane production and other metabolic pathways during elicitation remains poorly understood. In this study, we combined untargeted metabolomics and elicited Taxus baccata cell cultures to investigate variations in taxane-associated metabolism under the influence of 1 µM coronatine (COR) and 150 µM salicylic acid (SA). Our results demonstrated pleiotropic effects induced by both COR and SA elicitors, leading to differential changes in cell growth, taxane content, and secondary metabolism. Metabolite annotation revealed significant effects on N-containing compounds, phenylpropanoids, and terpenoids. Multivariate analysis showed that the metabolomic profiles of control and COR-treated samples are closer to each other than to SA-elicited samples at different time points (8, 16, and 24 days). The highest level of paclitaxel content was detected on day 8 under SA elicitation, exhibiting a negative correlation with the biomarkers kauralexin A2 and taxusin. Our study provides valuable insights into the intricate metabolic changes associated with paclitaxel production, aiding its potential optimization through untargeted metabolomics and an evaluation of COR/SA elicitor effects.
Ethical Issues with Physician-assisted Suicide in South Korea
Authors: KIM Yulie
Published: July 2023

Discussions are currently underway in South Korean society about the possibility of legalizing physician-assisted suicide. There is an opinion that the legalization of physician-assisted suicide would guarantee patients’ right to a self-determined death and enable patients to die with dignity. Others contend that it would be premature at best to legalize physician-assisted suicide in South Korea since (a) there is no social consensus on the issue within Korean society, (b) the country lacks a well-established system of hospice and palliative care, and (c) the country has a relatively high suicide rate. This article analyzes several cases from countries that have already legalized physician-assisted suicide in an attempt to identify the likely social and ethical implications of legalizing physician-assisted suicide in South Korea.
The Effect of Service Quality and E-Service Quality on Customer Satisfaction in Bukit Vista Hospitality Customers
Authors: Pradnyana I Putu Gede Dipta
Published: July 2023

In the current digital era, service quality has developed into e-service quality (E-SERVQUAL) which contributes passively and actively to services through electronic media to facilitate service delivery to consumers. Bukit Vista Hospitality is a hospitality villa management company that utilizes conventional and online services to support its services to consumers to be able to provide a competitive advantage in the market. The study used quantitative methods by collecting data for 208 respondents using purposive sampling technique which was analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis using IBM SPSS 22 software. The results showed that service quality and e-service quality had a positive and significant influence on customer satisfaction. Hypothesis testing states that service quality and e-service quality have a partial and simultaneous relationship to customer satisfaction. The results also show that service quality and e-service quality have an effect of 35.4% on customer satisfaction. It is recommended that Bukit Vista Hospitality improve its services because it is found that service quality and e-service quality have a positive influence on customer satisfaction so it is very relevant to improve services in this aspect in order to create much better customer satisfaction.
El riesgo de radicalización entre jóvenes inmigrantes. Orientaciones para su prevención desde la intervención social
Authors: Palma García María de las Olas , Arredondo Quijada Rafael , Castilla Mora Rosario
Published: July 2023

El fenómeno de radicalización extremista constituye una realidad en continuo cambio y preocupación entre nuestras sociedades, alertando numerosos estudios sobre la situación de colectivos de menores pertenecientes a entornos vulnerables, como los jóvenes inmigrantes, que se encuentran expuestos a su captación y reclutamiento. Se realiza el presente trabajo a través de un estudio Delphi con la finalidad de ofrecer una mayor comprensión del proceso de radicalización en estos jóvenes. En el estudio participan trece panelistas, seleccionados de manera discrecional entre personas profesionales expertas en intervención social con jóvenes inmigrantes y académicas e investigadoras de reconocida relevancia en procesos de radicalización. Tomando como referencia la herramienta VERA-2, los expertos muestran su grado de acuerdo respecto a la relevancia y presencia de los factores asociados al proceso de radicalización en jóvenes inmigrantes tanto de opinión como de acción. En general, los resultados alcanzan mayores niveles de acuerdo respecto a la presencia de factores actitudinales tales como el odio, frustración, rechazo hacia la sociedad y sus valores, problemas de identidad colectiva y percepción de injusticia. Se identifica que dichos factores aparecen con mayor fuerza en los momentos iniciales en los que los jóvenes comienzan a relacionarse con el mundo extremista, tanto en la radicalización de la opinión como de la acción, pudiéndose establecer a partir de ellos indicadores para la detección de posibles procesos de captación. Con los resultados obtenidos se espera sumar nuevas orientaciones en las prácticas y políticas que favorezcan la prevención del extremismo violento entre los jóvenes inmigrantes.
Rôles Et Faiblesses Des Acteurs Dans La Mise En Œuvre Des Mesures Environnementales Des Projets D’aménagement Routier Au Bénin
Authors: Arsène DAGA Dossou , Eustache Zokpénou QUENUM Comlan Irené , Thierry AGBANOU B. , Roméo CHABI , Josée E. GNELE , Brice TENTE H. A.
Published: July 2023

La gouvernance environnementale des projets d’aménagement routier est une préoccupation des pouvoirs publics, des partenaires techniques et financiers et des différentes parties prenantes de la société. Au Bénin, cette activité est confrontée à des difficultés qui entachent parfois la mise en œuvre des outils de protection de l’environnement. L’objectif de cette recherche est d’analyser les responsabilités et les faiblesses des acteurs intervenant dans la mise en œuvre de l’aménagement des projets routiers au Bénin.L’approche méthodologique utilisée a consisté en une recherche documentaire et à la collecte de données à travers des entretiens avec des personnes-ressources et responsables d’institutions. Au total vingt-six (26) entretiens individuels et seize (16) focus groupes ont été réalisés. Avant le traitement proprement dit, un dépouillement annuel des données a été fait. Ces données ont été ensuite transcrites et classées selon les centres d’intérêt. Le modèle SWOT a permis d’analyser les résultats obtenus.Il ressort des résultats obtenus que des projets d’aménagement routier au Bénin n’ont pas bénéficié d’Étude d’Impact Environnemental et Social (EIES). Pour ceux qui en ont bénéficié, le Plan de Gestion Environnemental et Social (PGES) n’est pas correctement mise en œuvre. Plusieurs facteurs expliquent cette non mise en œuvre des mesures environnementales et sociales. En effet, les différentes structures impliquées dans la gestion environnementale et sociale des projets d’aménagement routier n’ont pas joué pleinement leurs rôles pour des raisons logistiques, économiques, administratives, institutionnelles et politiques.  Ainsi, de 2014 à 2018 sur un total de cent seize (116) suivi de PGES programmés, seulement 41 ont fait l’objet de suivi, soit un ratio de 35%.
Elucidating mechanistic background of the origin and rates of peroxide formation in low temperature proton exchange fuel cells
Authors: Kregar Ambrož , Katrašnik Tomaž
Published: July 2023

Degradation of electrode-membrane assembly of the low-temperature hydrogen fuel cells represents one of the main obstacles in wider adoption of these clean and efficient electrochemical sources of electrical energy. Chemical degradation of proton exchange membrane is initiated by hydrogen peroxide formation, which forms in the fuel cell as a by-product to water in oxygen reduction reaction and decomposes to reactive radical species, damaging to the membrane chemical structure. Depending on the operating conditions of the fuel cell, the source of hydrogen peroxide can be either cathode, anode, or, as we argue in the paper, also the Pt particles in the membrane, which originate from the cathode catalyst dissolution, diffusion into the membrane and redeposition of Pt ions inside the membrane. In the paper we propose a mathematical model of intertwined physical processes in membrane and catalyst layer, aimed at unifying the description of hydrogen peroxide formation throughout entire membrane-electrode assembly at any fuel cell operating conditions. The model results, compared to experimental data, indicate that Pt particles inside the membrane can indeed be an important source of hydrogen peroxide in aged fuel cells. For a fresh fuel cell, numerical simulation using proposed model show that hydrogen peroxide can be formed at either cathode or anode, depending on the fuel cell operating condition, but with anode production being more prominent in standard fuel cell operating conditions.
Organic management of soft rot of ginger (Zingiber officinale) in Sikkim Himalayan region
Authors: GOPI R , KALITA H , AVASTHE R K
Published: July 2023

Soft rot is one of the most important diseases of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rose.) in Sikkim. Experiment was conducted during 2011-12 and 2012-13 to study the effect of various organic treatments on the incidence of soft rot, germination and yield of ginger. In the survey the highest incidence of soft rot was observed in South district 30.0 and 25.7%, respectively, during 2011-12 and 2012-13, whereas lowest incidence of disease was observed in North district (10.0 and 9.7%, respectively). In the in vitro study, garlic @ 10% concentration was found to be the most effective in reducing the growth of the soft rot pathogen with 62.3% inhibition. Among the 10 selected Trichoderma isolates, Trichoderma harzianum collected from Todaybusty, South Sikkim was the most effective in reducing the Pythium aphanidermatum colony growth (72.0%). Among the treatments evaluated against the soft rot, the hot water treatment @ 47oC for 30 min + T. harzianum + three periodic drenching of COC @ 0.3 % at 20 day interval was found effective with the lowest average per cent incidence (16.7 and 15.0) followed by hot water treatment @ 47oC for 30 min + neem cake @ 2 tonnes/ha + COC 0.3%. The hot water treatment @ 47oC for 30 min + T. harzianum + COC @ 0.3%, recorded maximum germination (91.3 and 90.3%) and highest yield (158 and 126 q/ha).
Adoption of ICTs in a Marginalised Area of South Africa
Authors: Thandeka Priscilla Mapi
Published: July 2023

This paper examines how a community in Dwesa, a marginalised area in theTranskei Region of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, adopts Information andCommunication Technologies (ICTs). This research is part of the Siyakhulaproject, which aims at promoting the potential of the area through ICTs. Theproject is situated in four different schools: Mpume, Nondobo, Mtokwane andNgwane. Fostering ICT awareness and a sense of ownership by the communityare seen as crucial factors, and computer literacy education is an integral part ofthe project. The study focuses on how diverse groups of people adopt newtechnologies and approach ICT education. Qualitative research methods suchas Participatory Action Research (PAR) and Participant Observation (PO) wereadopted in the study.
An Investigation into the Metacognitive Writing Strategies of Turkish Cypriot University Students
Authors: Razı Özge
Published: July 2023

This paper presents findings from a study done in an English preparatory school of a University in North Cyprus. The study focused on the use and awareness of metacognitive learning strategies in relation to writing skills. Data collection was done through the means of quantitative, student-questionnaire, and qualitative, teacher-interview, measures. The findings show that less than half of the participants used and were aware of metacognitive learning strategies. Although teachers mentioned such strategies during the lessons, according to the questionnaire results, less than half of the 250 participants used strategies or had awareness of them. Conclusion would, therefore, be that mentioning strategies to encourage students to use strategies is not enough. A statistically significant correlation between the success rate and metacognitive strategy use and awareness was proved in support of the findings in the literature. The implication of this finding for teachers is that, implementing strategy instruction in our classrooms could increase the success of students and, as the success rate of the students is increased, they will use more strategies with an increased awareness.
Total Structure, Electronic Structure and Catalytic Hydrogenation Activity of Metal‐Deficient Chiral Polyhydride Cu57 Nanoclusters
Authors: Luo Geng‐Geng , Pan Zhong‐Hua , Han Bao‐Liang , Dong Guang‐Lei , Deng Cheng‐Long , Azam Mohammad , Tao Yun‐Wen , He Jiao , Sun Cun‐Fa , Sun Di
Published: July 2023

Accurate identifying and in‐depth understanding of the defect sites in a working nanomaterial could hinge on establishing specific defect‐activity relationships. Yet, atomically precise coinage‐metal nanoclusters (NCs) possessing surface vacancy defects are scarce primarily owing to challenges in the synthesis and isolation of such defective NCs. Herein we report a mixed‐ligand strategy to synthesizing an intrinsically chiral and metal‐deficient copper hydride‐rich NC [Cu57H20(PET)36(TPP)4]+ (Cu57H20). Its total structure (including hydrides) and electronic structure are well established by combined experimental and computational results. Crystal structure reveals Cu57H20 features a cube‐like Cu8 kernel embedded in a corner‐missing metal‐ligand shell of Cu49(PET)36(TPP)4. Single Cu vacancy defect site occurs at one corner of the shell, evocative of mono‐lacunary polyoxometalates. Theoretical calculations demonstrate that the above‐mentioned point vacancy causes one surface hydride exposed as an interfacial capping μ3‐H−, which is accessible in chemical reaction, as proved by deuterated experiment. Moreover, Cu57H20 shows catalytic activity in the hydrogenation of nitroarene. The success of this work opens the way for the research on well‐defined chiral metal‐deficient Cu and other metal NCs, including exploring their application in asymmetrical catalysis.
Dauricine exhibits anti‐inflammatory property against acute ulcerative colitis via the regulation of NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wang Ting , Miao Yu , Lin Wan , Zhu Litao , Meng Xiangkun , Zhang Feixiong
Published: July 2023

We aim to investigate the therapeutic effect of dauricine on ulcerative colitis (UC). Our results indicated that dauricine attenuated the reduction of colonic length, weight loss, disease activity index, colonic tissue damage, and inflammatory cytokine levels in dextran sulfate sodium mice. In addition, dauricine reduced lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammation in HT‐29 cells. Mechanically, dauricine docked with p65, a member of nuclear transcription factor kappaB (NF‐κB) family, through which reduced the inflammatory cytokine release from HT‐29 cells. Together, the above results inferred that dauricine had therapeutic effect for UC by suppressing NF‐κB pathway, which provided a promising mean for UC treatment.
The expression of tuftelin 1 as a new theranostic marker in early diagnosis and as a therapeutic target in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Abdel‐Hamid Nabil M. , Zakaria Sherin M. , Ansary Abeer M. , El‐Senduny Fardous F. , El‐Shishtawy Mamdouh M.
Published: July 2023

Currently, many challenges are associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as the failure of early diagnosis, and the lack of effective therapy. This study aimed to investigate the possible role of tuftelin 1 (TUFT 1) in the early diagnosis of HCC and evaluate the potential contribution of the TUFT 1/Ca+2/phosphinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) pathway in dantrolene sodium (Dan) therapeutic outcomes. The study was performed on two sets of rats, the staging (30 rats) and treatment sets (80 rats). HCC was induced by a single dose of diethylnitrosamine (DENA). The hepatic content of TUFT 1 protein was assayed via western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC), while PI3K, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Cyclin D1, and matrix‐metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) contents were assessed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Hepatic and serum calcium were measured colorimetrically. Furthermore, the nuclear proliferation marker, (Ki‐67), (Kiel [Ki] where the antibody was produced in the University Department of Pathology and the original clone number is 67)—expression was assessed by IHC. TUFT 1/Ca+2/PI3K signaling pathway was progressively activated in the 3 studied stages of HCC with subsequent upregulation of angiogenesis, cell cycle, and metastasis. More interestingly, Dan led to TUFT 1/Ca+2/PI3K pathway disruption by diminution of the hepatic contents of TUFT 1, calcium, PI3K, VEGF, Cyclin D1, and MMP‐9 in a dose‐dependent pattern. TUFT 1 can serve as a theranostic biomarker in HCC. Moreover, Dan exerted an antineoplastic effect against HCC via the interruption of TUFT 1/Ca+2/PI3K pathway.
“Crossing the invisible”
Authors: Hirai Taishi
Published: July 2023

Key Points

Using the septal collaterals without angiographic connection during retrograde CTO PCI was associated with high collateral channel crossing rate (>80%).

Two predicators for channel crossing failure were shorter posterior descending artery (less than 2/3 of the distance to cardiac apex) and well developed non‐septal collateral.

Further studies focusing on retrograde channel selection could improve the success rate and safety of retrograde CTO PCI.
The effects of macro‐algae supplementation on serum lipid, glycaemic control and anthropometric indices: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Rezaei Shahla , Doaei Saeid , Tabrizi Reza , Ghobadi Saeed , Zare Morteza , Gholamalizadeh Maryam , Mazloom Zohreh
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Macro‐algae products have been shown to ameliorate the metabolic disorders state. Thus, highlighting their function as supplementary therapeutic agents can be a novel strategy for clinical therapies. This systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical trials aimed to summarize the effect of macro‐algae consumption on serum lipid profile, glycaemic control and anthropometric factors.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, a comprehensive search was performed for relevant studies published up to May 2023. The Cochran's Q test and I‐square (I2) tests were used to evaluate heterogeneity across the included studies. The meta‐analysis was conducted using random‐effects model (DerSimonian and Laird), and weighted mean difference (WMD) was considered as the pooled effect size.

Results

Out of 8602 papers in the initial screening, eight clinical trials with a total of 438 participants were included into this meta‐analysis. The results indicated that macro‐algae supplementation significantly decreased serum levels of total cholesterol (TC) (WMD = −6.7 mg/dL; 95% CI: −12.59, −0.80; item = 0.026) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐c) (WMD = −8.25 mg/dL; 95% CI: −15.38, −1.12; p‐value = .023). There was an increase in level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐c) (WMD = 0.48 mg/dL; 95% CI: −2.05, 3.01; p‐value = .71) which was not statistically significant. Macro‐algae supplementation reduced body mass index (BMI) (WMD = −0.28 kg/m2; 95% CI: −0.96, 0.41; p‐value = .426), weight (WMD = −0.39 kg; 95% CI: −3.6, 2.83; p‐value = .81), waist circumference (WC) (WMD = −0.52 cm; 95% CI: −2.71, 1.66; p‐value = .64), fasting blood sugar (FBS) (WMD = −1.95 mg/dL; 95% CI: −5.19, 1.28; p‐value = .24) and HbA1c (WMD = −0.02%; 95% CI: −0.14, 0.09; p‐value = .66) in intervention group.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis indicated that macro‐algae supplementation significantly decreased TC and LDL‐c level. It can also increase HDL‐c level and reduce anthropometric indices and glycaemic control factors.
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Integrated Solar Chimney System with Solar Still for Water Desalination
Authors: Afsari Hadi , Yousefi Mohammad Reza , Sajjadi Mohammad , Shirvani Mansour
Published: July 2023

The integrated solar chimney and solar still system offers a promising approach for simultaneous water and electricity production. However, there have been only few experimental studies conducted on this combined design. In this regard, a solar chimney with 12 m height and 3.4 m collector diameter is constructed and accompanied with solar stills, installed inside the collector. The maximum velocity at the chimney's inlet for the combined system reaches near 2 m s−1, while it is 0.3 m s−1 smaller than the conventional arrangement. The maximum water production is 861 g h−1 which is attained in the evening hours. In the normal solar chimney without solar stills, air temperature inside the collector reaches its peak at 64 °C when solar radiation is maximum. While in the integrated system, this value is 59 °C which reaches with 2 h delay due to water heat storage. In addition, it is found that the effect of height of vapor space inside the basin can be negligible while the lower water depth in the basin provides higher water production.