bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emotional Intelligence as a Factor in the Development of the Intellectual Capital of the Organization
Authors: Melnichuk  M.   V.
Published: July 2023

There is a recent trend towards increasing the role of an organisation’s intellectual capital as a critical resource, success factor and asset that contributes to added value creation and increased capitalisation. As an intangible value driver of potential benefits and competitive advantage, an organization’s intellectual capital and its human, structural and relational components need multidimensional study to determine the drivers of its development. From the perspective of the resource-based approach, an organization’s intellectual capital is a unique, non-borrowable resource that determines the attainability of a firm’s competitive advantages. From the perspective of the knowledge theory of the firm, intellectual capital as the sum of relationships, management and knowledge, the bearers of which are employees, plays a crucial role in shaping the innovation capacity of the organisation, a source of invention and strategic innovation. The purpose of this study is to identify the factor of development of intellectual capital of the organisation from the perspective of social psychology. Due to the fact that human capital develops in the conditions of creative satisfaction, self-actualisation, selfaccomplishment and self-fulfilment of the employees as well as in their communication in the process of interaction in a certain structural and functional environment, conducive to the development of new concepts, technologies, intellectual property and improvement of relations with all stakeholders of the organisation, the author analyses the personal characteristics of the organisation employees, in particular the emotional and cognitive competencies that form the ability to consciously evaluate and prioritise their goals, strengths and weaknesses, to effectively achieve professional growth by reflecting and regulating their thoughts and feelings in the process of professional interaction. The paper presents the results of a survey of consulting company employees to determine the importance of emotional competencies as the most important intangible asset of a consulting business. The author concludes that emotional intelligence, as a socio-psychological phenomenon, requires both the attention of the leaders of the organisation and further study, as emotional competencies of employees are a factor in the development of their creative, leadership and innovative initiatives, increasing the effectiveness of organisational culture and relationships with stakeholders.
GELENEKSEL ANTEP İŞİ NAKIŞLARDA TOPLUMSAL BELLEĞİN İZLERİ: BEBEKLİ MOTİF
Authors: EROĞLU BİLGİN Süreyya , YILMAZ Evren
Published: July 2023

Toplumsal bellek zaman içerisinde, bir coğrafyanın sabık sakinleriyle ziyaretçileri tarafından üretilmiş ve deneyimlenmiş olan toplumsal tarihe, kültürel-sanatsal üretimlere, birikimlere dayanan “geçişken” anlam ve sembollerden bir kolektif bilinçaltı, kolektif davranış, alışkanlık ve yaklaşım örgesini kendiliğindenlikle bina eder. Böylelikle hem geçmişle günümüz arasında bağ kurar hem de belleğinde, kültüründe, alışkanlıklarında yaşamaya devam ettiği birey ve toplumlara kimliğini, karakterini vererek onları bir anlamda meydana getirir.
Çağlardır kesintisiz bir yerleşim ve uygarlık merkezi olan Gaziantep’in varisi olduğu zengin kültürel mirasın izleri, kent dokusunda, sanat eserlerinde, geleneklerde, gündelik yaşama dair alışkanlıklarda dahi yaşatılmaktadır. “Toplumsal bellek” kavramı, bu kültürel ve sanatsal mirası yaşa(t)maya devam eden toplumların varlığını ve kültürel özelliklerinin ve etkileşimlerin, değerlerin ve birikimin sürekliliğini sağlamasının yanında kültürel akrabalıklara dair değerli ipuçları verir. Gaziantep’in geleneksel el işlerinde-nakışlarında görülen bazı figürler, bu “toplumsal belleğin” bir izdüşümüdür. Gaziantep’in antik devirlerinden miras mitolojik figürlerin ve kozmopolit yakın tarihinden süzülen hikayelerin yansımalarının izi, bu çalışmada incelenen, ipek üzerine ipek iplikle büyük emek, zaman harcanarak özenle işlenen, halk arasında “bebekli model” denen nakışlarda, küpidler başta olmak üzere mitolojik figürlerin çeşitlemelerinde sürülebilmektedir. Kaynağını özellikle Gaziantep ve çevresindeki mitolojik konulu Roma mozaiklerindeki figürlerden aldığı aşikâr bu motifler, karşılaştırmalı olarak irdelenecektir.
Magnetopriming enhance germination and seedling growth parameters of onion and lettuce seeds
Authors: SARI Mustafa Emre , DEMİR İbrahim , YILDIRIM Kutay , MEMİŞ Nurcan
Published: July 2023

The main objective of this study was to improve seed quality by using magnetic field (MF) as a priming method to increase germination percentages (GP) and seedling emergence percentages (SEP) in onion and lettuce seeds. MF treatments on pre-hydrated seeds, significantly increased GP (up to 80% for onion, 87% for lettuce) and SEP (up to 76% for onion, 86% for lettuce) in both species. Magnetic treatments in other saying magnetopriming helped to increase germination and seedling emergence speed in treated seeds as well. The shortening of mean germination time allowed the treatments to establish uniform and well-developed seedlings. Our findings indicate that magnetopriming could be used as a pre-germination treatment before sowing.
Amnioinfusion for the Management of Severe Oligohydramnios during the Second Trimester: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Gu Wei , Zhao Xinrong , Wu Yi , Hua Renyi , Gao Li , Wang Yanlin
Published: July 2023

Background: To evaluate the safety profiles and role of antepartum transabdominal amnioinfusion (TA) in detecting fetal anomalies in pregnant women with oligohydramnios during the second trimester. Methods: Pregnant women with a diagnosis of oligohydramnios at 16 0/7 to 27 0/7 weeks of gestation were evaluated at our center between June 2014 and April 2020. Data collected included maternal and fetal clinical characteristics, ultrasonographic or magnetic resonance imaging findings, chromosomal results, and perinatal mortality. Pregnancy outcomes and procedure-related complications were then analyzed. Results: The study analyzed 106 pregnant women with severe oligohydramnios, at a mean gestational age of 22+3 weeks. Out of these, 71 women received TA while the remaining 35 did not. Only two patients (2.82%) suffered adverse events of chorioamnionitis post-TA. Nineteen additional cases of fetal anomalies were detected following TA, leading to a significantly increased detection rate (24/71 vs 43/71, p = 0.001). Among the TA group, eight pregnancies without obvious fetal pathologies were delivered alive, and all newborns were discharged in good condition. Conclusions: TA is a safe and valuable procedure for pregnant women with severe oligohydramnios in the second trimester that improved the detection rate of fetal structural anomalies. TA may lead to favorable outcomes in pregnancies without obvious fetal pathologies.
Regulatory T Cell as Predictor of Intramyocardial Hemorrhage in STEMI Patients after Primary PCI
Authors: Zhang Yue , Gao Hui , Liu Lei , Li Shengyu , Hua Bing , Lan Dihui , He Yi , Li Jinshui , Chen Hui , Li Weiping , Li Hongwei
Published: July 2023

Background: Intramyocardial hemorrhage (IMH) is a result of ischemia-reperfusion injury in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). Despite patients with IMH show poorer prognoses, studies investigating predictors of IMH occurrence are scarce. This study firstly investigated the effectiveness of regulatory T cell (Treg), peak value of Creatine Kinase MB (pCKMB), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD) as predictors for IMH. Methods: In 182 STEMI patients received PPCI, predictors of IMH were analyzed by logistic regression analysis. The predictive ability of risk factors for IMH were determined by receiver operating characteristic curves, net reclassification improvement (NRI), integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) and C-index. Results: Overall, 80 patients (44.0%) developed IMH. All 4 biomarkers were independent predictors of IMH [odds ratio [OR] (95% confidence interval [CI]): 0.350 (0.202–0.606) for Treg, 1.004 (1.001–1.006) for pCKMB, 1.060 (1.022–1.100) for hsCRP, and 3.329 (1.346–8.236) for LVESD]. After propensity score matching (PSM), the biomarkers significantly predicted IMH with areas under the curve of 0.750 for Treg, 0.721 for pCKMB, 0.656 for hsCRP, 0.633 for LVESD, and 0.821 for the integrated 4-marker panel. The addition of integrated 4-marker panel to a baseline risk model had an incremental effect on the predictive value for IMH [NRI: 0.197 (0.039 to 0.356); IDI: 0.200 (0.142 to 0.259); C-index: 0.806 (0.744 to 0.869), all p < 0.05]. Conclusions: Treg individually or in combination with pCKMB, hsCRP, and LVESD can effectively predict the existence of IMH in STEMI patients received PPCI. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT03939338.
Intermediate-Term Prognostic Value of Homocysteine in Acute Coronary Syndrome Complicated with or without Hypertension: A Multicenter Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Qiang , Xiong Shiqiang , Ding Xunshi , Yu Xiuqiong , Cui Caiyan , Su Hong , Long Yu , Luo Yan , Zhang Zhen , Liu Hanxiong , Xiang Tao , Cai Lin
Published: July 2023

Background: As a classical biomarker associated with hypertension, the prognostic value of homocysteine (Hcy) in the intermediate-term outcome of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the role of homocysteine in ACS patients with different blood pressure statuses. Methods: A total of 1288 ACS patients from 11 general hospitals in Chengdu, China, from June 2015 to December 2019 were consecutively included in this observational study. The primary endpoint was defined as all-cause death. Secondary endpoints included cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), unplanned revascularization and nonfatal stroke. The patients in the hypertension group (n = 788) were further stratified into hyperhomocysteinemia (H-Hcy, n = 245) and normal homocysteinaemia subgroups (N-Hcy, n = 543) around the cut-off value of 16.81 µmol/L. Similarly, the nonhypertensive patients were stratified into H-Hcy (n = 200) and N-Hcy subgroups (n = 300) around the optimal cut-off value of 14.00 µmol/L. The outcomes were compared between groups. Results: The median follow-up duration was 18 months. During this period, 78 (6.05%) deaths were recorded. Kaplan‒Meier curves illustrated that H-Hcy had a lower survival probability than N-Hcy in both hypertension and nonhypertension groups (p < 0.01). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that H-Hcy was a predictor of intermediate-term mortality in ACS, regardless of blood pressure status. Conclusions: Elevated Hcy levels predict intermediate-term all-cause mortality in ACS regardless of blood pressure status. This association could be conducive to risk stratification of ACS. Clinical Trial Registration: The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry in China (ChiCTR1900025138).
Glosa do Postanowienia Rady Stanu z dnia 18 maja 2020 r. w sprawie M.W. i inni.Przestrzeganie kolektywnego wymiaru wolności religii w czasie epidemii we Francji
Authors: Falski Jacek
Published: July 2023

The commentary analyses the interim order of the Council of State of 18 May 2020 in the case of M.W. and Others, declaring the maintenance – during the first phase of the relaxation of the quarantine restrictions – of the ban on meetings and assemblies in places of worship, with the exception of funeral ceremonies involving up to 20 people, to be a serious and obviously unlawful infringement of freedom of religion. A counterpoint to this analysis is the preceding presentation of European law regulations and the position of the reference European courts on this subject.
FACTORS AFFECTING IMPULSIVE BUYING BEHAVIOR OF ORGANIC BRANDED PRODUCTS AMONG CONSUMERS IN SRI LANKA
Authors: Lakchan U.G.C.  , Samaraweera G.C.
Published: July 2023

Sri Lanka's organic food market is still relatively small and is seen to be a niche one. Regardless of the importance of popularizing organic branded products among consumers through impulsive buying, a few have discussed this matter yet in the existing literature. In fact, the consumer behavior in the Asian market has been widely ignored. Therefore, the primary goal of this research study was to discover the factors influencing the impulsive buying behavior of organic branded food products among consumers in Sri Lanka. Based on prior studies, Web site stimulus, marketing stimulus, Product variety, impulsive traits and perceived enjoyment were considered as the dimensions in independent variable. The study used three hundred eighty-four (n=384) consumers for this study using convenience sampling technique. Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis were used to test the hypothesis using SPSS software. Ideally, this study proved that website stimulus, marketing stimulus and impulsive traits have a positive impact on impulsive buying behavior of organic branded products. More interestingly, Product variety had a negative impact on impulsive buying behavior of organic brands whereas perceived enjoyment did not have a significant impact on impulsive buying behavior. Thus, the results of this research have given businesses some insight into the issues they are generally having, with convincing customers to buy organic brands.

Keywords: impulsive buying behavior, organic branded products, social influences, environmental attitudes
“History of Ukrainian Сulture” as a research field and academic discipline: suggestions for solving pressing problems
Authors: Dovga Larysa , Lihus Mariia
Published: July 2023

The article reconsiders the teaching and learning of the academic discipline “History of Ukrainian Culture”. This course is justified as fundamental in teaching humanities and the key to the success of modern democracies. It is noted that the teaching of the discipline “History of Ukrainian Culture” in Ukrainian higher education institutions is currently based mainly on the history of artistic culture, neglecting the fact that the history of national culture is a philosophical discipline which apart from artistic culture examines the cultural worldview, value system, and political and economic state models. Therefore, a philosophical justification of the “History of Ukrainian culture” as a research field and educational discipline is suggested. In particular, the historical-philosophical methodology of Gorsky is applied, from the standpoint of which the concept of national culture is conceptualized as a multidimensional field of cultural creativity, where the national idea is discussed and formulated through the personal character of every cultural-historical epoch’s worldview. The authors address Hofstede’s sociological approach to measuring value frameworks of national cultures and justify the reasonability to interpret the history of Ukrainian culture as a performative practice of curating the past, conveying cultural values, cultural criticism, and composing the shared knowledge in the context of public construction of the Ukrainian modern national identity. It is concluded that the suggested perspective on theoretical conceptualization and practical implementation of the academic discipline “History of Ukrainian Culture” may encourage students to research the national past, construct a positive national-cultural identity, and expertly represent Ukrainian culture on the world stage.
Polymorphonuclear phenotypical expression of CD18, at baseline and after in vitro activation, in several clinical disorders: Revision of our case series
Authors: Caimi Gregorio , Lo Presti Rosalia , Carollo Caterina , Montana Maria , Carlisi Melania
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

In relation to the different and important roles of the beta2 integrins, we have revisited the expression of polymorphonuclear leukocyte CD18 in several clinical disorders, at baseline and after in vitro activation.

SUBJECTS:

we have examined subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus, vascular atherosclerotic disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus without and with macrovascular complications, chronic renal failure on conservative treatment, essential hypertension, deep venous thrombosis, acute ischemic stroke and subjects with venous leg ulcers.

METHODS:

unfractioned leukocyte suspension was prepared according to the Mikita’s method, while the leukocyte were separated into mononuclear and polymorphonuclear cells with a Ficoll-Hypaque medium. Using specific monoclonal antibody, the CD18 expression was evaluated with cytofluorimetric analysis, using FACScan (Becton Dickinson) be Cellquest software; the activation in vitro with PMA was effected according to modified Yasui and Masuda methods.

RESULTS:

in type 1 diabetes mellitus, at baseline CD18 is under expressed in comparison with normal control, and not changes after PMA activation were observed; in subjects with vascular atherosclerotic disease, in type 2 diabetes mellitus CD18 is over expressed at baseline but does not vary after activation; in subjects with chronic renal failure, essential hypertension and in subjects with acute ischemic stroke the CD18 up-regulate at baseline compared to normal control, and it increases further after activation; in subjects with deep venous thrombosis the CD18 expression is not different from control group at baseline, but it increases after activation; finally, in subjects with venous leg ulcers the CD18 is normally expressed at baseline, and it does not change after PMA activation.

CONCLUSIONS:

in the different clinical disorders, the trend of this integrin subunit provides some specific information, useful to select the best therapeutic strategy in clinical practice.
Fuel automata: Smart fuel dispenser using RFID technology and IoT-based monitoring for automotive applications
Authors: Chandana S. , Dhanyashree C. J. , Ashwini K. L. , Harini R. , Premkumar M. , Abualigah Laith
Published: July 2023

In the modern era, time holds immense value, and individuals strive to avoid delays in their daily responsibilities. These fuel stations are time-consuming and rely on human labour for efficient operation. With each passing day, the number of vehicles and devices in our technologically advanced world continues to grow rapidly. As a result, customers wait in queues at fuel stations, fuelling their desire to transition to an automated fuel dispensing system and eliminate the manual fuel distribution process from their daily routines. This research paper introduces an innovative smart fuel dispenser system that leverages RFID technology and IoT-based monitoring to enhance automotive fuelling processes. By addressing the limitations of conventional fuelling systems, this proposed system provides a superior solution that is more efficient and effective. Notably, it offers numerous benefits, such as improved accuracy, efficiency, safety, and sustainability, thereby presenting potential cost savings for fuel station owners and operators. The ongoing project is focused on automating fuel dispensing stations using RFID technology as a highly efficient tool. This approach aims to reduce the traffic congestion typically seen in front of fuel stations by shortening the time required for fuel dispensing compared to traditional manual operations. To enhance control and monitoring capabilities, an Android application has been created. This app allows for the tracking of fuel transactions and transaction history for both customers and fuel station dealers. The system utilizes NodeMCU and the Android app as an Internet-of-Things platform for seamless communication between the system, customers, and dealers. This study presents concrete evidence that supports the viability and potential advantages of the proposed system, emphasizing its capacity to revolutionize the fuelling industry and mitigate carbon emissions. The findings derived from the implemented system have been thoroughly examined, offering an intelligent solution for a sustainable future.
ЛЮДСЬКИЙ РОЗВИТОК ЯК МЕТА І ЗАСІБ ПОДАЛЬШОГО РУХУ В УМОВАХ НЕВИЗНАЧЕНОСТІ
Authors: Костюк Віра
Published: July 2023

У статті досліджено стан та тенденції людського розвитку в умовах невизначеності, що обумовлені не лише небезпечними екологічними змінами, зростанням рівня поляризації у суспільствах, інфляцією, а й доповнені новими викликами цивілізації – пандемія COVID-19 та російсько-українська війна, які наклалися одна на одну та породили нові проблеми світової економіки. Проаналізовано прямі та непрямі втрати складових людського розвитку в Україні в період військових дій. Окрему увагу у дослідженні присвячено первинному праву сучасної цивілізованої людини – прожити довге й здорове життя. Визначено, що активізація трьох ключових можливостей людського розвитку, а саме, здорового довголіття, освіченості та гідного матеріального рівня життя, є чинниками забезпечення повоєнного розширеного відтворення української економіки.
Costeffective formulation of bio-fertilizer using agricultural residues as carriers and determination of shelflife of bio-fertilizer inoculants
Authors: Akter Taslima , Shah SM Tanjil , Mamun Md Arafat Al , Bari Md Latiful , Begum Shamima , Rahman Naziza , Miah Md Ibrahim
Published: July 2023

Traditionally, inorganic chemical-based fertilizers is used for soil management strategies, which can cause public health and environmental threats. Alternatively, bio-fertilizer can be used to increase the productivity and sustainability of soil without causing environmental pollution. The present study aimed to cost-effectively produce bio-fertilizer using agricultural residues and determine the shelflife and efficacy of the bioinoculants. We used sterilized rice husk ash and alluvial soil (1:2) to prepare cost-effective carriers. Rhizobium sp., Azotobacter sp., and Trichoderma sp. were grown in a newly designed culture medium for economic production as bio-inoculants. The efficacy of the formulated bio-fertilizer was tested on a small scale, where it significantly improved the growth of the sponge gourd (Luffa aegyptiaca) plant (p<0.01). The formulated bio-fertilizers were stored at room temperature for one year. Initially, the total viable count of microorganisms was 8.0×107 CFU/g in the formulated bio-fertilizer. The total viable count of the bio-inoculants increased significantly after one month (2.2×108 CFU/g) and one year (2.2×109 CFU/g). Rice husk ash might have supported the growth and survival of the bioinoculants under room temperature (25°C) because of its nutrient retention capacity, adsorptive capability, and high content of silica. Therefore, this study suggests that sterile rice husk ash combined with alluvial soil can be used as a carrier for bio-fertilizers formulation with Rhizobium sp., Azotobacter sp., and Trichoderma sp. bioinoculants.
Dhaka Univ. J. Biol. Sci. 32(2): 189-199, 2023 (July)
Productivity and nutrient composition of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) grown under integrated application of vermicompost, phosphorous and zinc fertilizers
Authors: Turna Tamanna Tahmid , Syed Mahmud , Rahman Md Khalilur
Published: July 2023

To evaluate the integrated effect of vermicompost, phosphorous, and zinc fertilizer on plant yield and nutritional quality of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), a pot experiment was conducted in the net house at Soil, Water, and Environment Department of the University of Dhaka. In this study, eight treatments viz. T1: control, T2: VC6 t ha-1, T3: P25 kg ha-1, T4: Zn1.5 kg ha-1, T5: VC6 t ha-1 + P25 kg ha-1, T6: VC6 t ha-1 + Zn1.5 kg ha-1, T7: P25 kg ha-1 + Zn1.5 kg ha-1, T8: VC6 t ha-1 + P25 kg ha-1 + Zn1.5 kg ha-1 with three replicates were used by following a completely randomized design (CRD). A one-way ANOVA with a Tukey posthoc test revealed statistically significant differences in growth and yield metrics between the treatments (p ≤ 0.05). The maximum growth and yield contributing attributes viz. plant height (123 cm), leaf number (30 plant-1), leaf area (155.45 cm2), stem girth (2.70 cm), branch number (18 plant-1), fruit number (7 plant-1), and fruit fresh (382 g) and dry (33 g) weight were detected in the treatment VC6 t ha-1 + P25 kg ha-1 + Zn1.5 kg ha-1 (T8). The treatment T1 (control) exhibited the lowest values for all the aforementioned treatments. The nutrient quality attributes in fruits were analyzed highest in the same treatment T8. So, farmers are advised to apply VC6 t ha-1 + P25 kg ha-1 + Zn1.5 kg ha-1 in their fields because it can help make land management and cucumber production more sustainable.
Dhaka Univ. J. Biol. Sci. 32(2): 201-210, 2023 (July)
Transmission of pathogenic fungi from seeds to seedlings in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Khatun Amina , Shamsi Shamim , Bashar MA
Published: July 2023

Cotton seeds of susceptible variety CB10 were inoculated with nine pathogenic fungi viz., Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, A. tamarii, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Curvularia lunata, Fusarium nivale, F. moniliforme, Mucor sp. and Rhizoctonia solani. Seedlings were grown in water agar test tube and in earthen pots. In water agar test, R. solani showed the highest percentage of seed to seedling transmission (35.27%) which was followed by F. moniliforme (31.29%) and A. niger showed the lowest (8.03%) transmission. Germination percentage of control seeds was 90.32% whereas in pathogen inoculated seeds it varied from 58.33 to 89.07%. The seedling mortality percentage was highest in R. solani (46.68%) and lowest in C. gloeosporioides (18.67%). Germination percentage of control seeds in pot was 99% whereas in pathogen inoculated seeds it varied from 43.37 to 84.34%. The seedling mortality percentage was highest in F. moniliforme (48.28%) and lowest in A. niger (19.64%). Percentage of seed to seedling transmission of fungi varied from 17.85% (A. niger) to 46.56% (F. moniliforme).
Dhaka Univ. J. Biol. Sci. 32(2): 225-232, 2023 (July)
Effect of grain boundary resistance on the ionic conductivity of amorphous xLi2S-(100-x)LiI binary system
Authors: Di Longbang , Pan Jiangyang , Gao Lei , Zhu Jinlong , Wang Liping , Wang Xiaomeng , Su Qinqin , Gao Song , Zou Ruqiang , Zhao Yusheng , Han Songbai
Published: July 2023

Solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) hold the key position in the progress of cutting-edge all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs). The ionic conductivity of solid-state electrolytes is linked to the presence of both amorphous and crystalline phases. This study employs the synthesis method of mechanochemical milling on binary xLi2S-(100-x)LiI system to investigate the effect of amorphization on its ionic conductivity. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) shows that the stoichiometry of Li2S and LiI has a significant impact on the amorphization of xLi2S-(100-x)LiI system. Furthermore, the analysis of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) indicates that the amorphization of xLi2S-(100-x)LiI system is strongly correlated with its ionic conductivity, which is primarily attributed to the effect of grain boundary resistance. These findings uncover the latent connections between amorphization, grain boundary resistance, and ionic conductivity, offering insight into the design of innovative amorphous SSEs.
Food writings in a postmodern society: a discourse analysis of influencer and celebrity chef cookbooks in Belgium
Authors: Proesmans Viktor L. J. , Vermeir Iris , Teughels Nelleke , Geuens Maggie
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The landscape of food writings has undergone a significant transformation, shifting from traditional informational cookbooks to hybrid edutaining cookbooks authored by celebrity chefs and influencers. To gain a better understanding of this evolution, we conducted a discourse analysis to examine the proclamations made by cookbooks authored by celebrity chefs and influencers and their alignment with our society.

Methods

We conducted a critical discourse analysis on 18 best-selling cookbooks published in Flanders (Belgium) between 2008 and 2018. Applying Fairclough's three-dimensional framework, we conducted text, process, and social analyses to delve into the content and context of the cookbooks.

Results

Our analysis reveals that modern cookbooks not only provide information but also aim to inspire and entertain readers. They adopt a personal discourse that emphasizes shared values and authenticity. Celebrity chefs focus on traditional aspects, such as family, tradition, and the joy of cooking, while influencers offer lifestyle advice centered on postmodern values, including moral choice, achievement, fulfillment, and personal responsibility. Additionally, influencers take an anti-establishment stance by criticizing “conventional science” and processed food, reflecting the growing societal distrust toward food science and the food industry.

Discussion

The shift from traditional informational cookbooks to hybrid edutaining cookbooks authored by media icons such as celebrity chefs and influencers is apparent based on our analysis. These contemporary cookbooks not only provide recipes but also serve as outlets for inspiration and entertainment. Furthermore, the discourse found in modern cookbooks reflects the prevailing societal trends of our postmodern and individualistic era.
Associations between obesity, smoking behaviors, reproductive traits and spontaneous abortion: a univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Qingyi , Liu Fanglei , Tuo Yinfeng , Ma Li , Feng Xiaoling
Published: July 2023

Background

The correlation between potential risk factors such as obesity (leg fat percentage (left), arm fat percentage (left), waist circumference, body fat percentage, trunk fat percentage), smoking behaviors (past tobacco smoking, smoking initiation, smoking/smokers in household, current tobacco smoking) and reproductive traits (age first had sexual intercourse (AFS), age at menarche (AAM), and age at first birth (AFB)) have been linked to the occurrence of spontaneous abortion (SA). However, the causal associations between these factors and SA remain unclear.

Methods

We conducted univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to evaluate the associations of obesity, smoking behavior and reproductive traits with SA. To select appropriate genetic instruments, we considered those that had reached the genome-wide significance level (P < 5 × 10–8) in their corresponding genome-wide association studies (GWAS) involving a large number of individuals (ranging from 29,346 to 1,232,091). SA was obtained from the FinnGen consortium, which provided summary-level data for 15,073 SA cases and 135,962 non-cases.

Results

Assessed individually using MR, the odds ratios (ORs) of SA were 0.728 (P = 4.3608×10-8), 1.063 (P = 0.0321), 0.926 (P = 9.4205×10-4), 1.141 (P = 7.9882×10-3), 5.154 (P = 0.0420), 1.220 (P = 0.0350), 1.228 (P = 0.0117), 0.795 (P = 0.0056), 1.126 (P = 0.0318), for one standard deviation (SD) increase in AFS, AAM, AFB, smoking initiation, smoking/smokers in household, arm fat percentage (left), leg fat percentage (left), waist circumference and body fat percentage, 0.925 (P = 0.4158) and 1.075 (P = 0.1479) for one SD increase in past tobacco smoking, trunk fat percentage for one SD increase in SA. In multivariable MR (MVMR), only AFS (OR = 0.802; P = 0.0250), smoking initiation (OR = 1.472, P = 0.0258), waist circumference (OR = 0.813, P = 0.0220) and leg fat percentage (left) (OR = 4.446, P = 0.043) retained a robust effect.

Conclusion

Smoking behaviors, reproductive traits and obesity-related anthropometric indicators are potential causal factors for SA. Higher leg fat percentage; smoking initiation; and lower waist circumference and AFS may increase the risk of SA. Understanding the causal relationship for SA may provide more information for SA intervention and prevention strategies.
Anticipated effects of burosumab treatment on long-term clinical sequelae in XLH: expert perspectives
Authors: Seefried Lothar , Duplan Martin Biosse , Briot Karine , Collins Michael T. , Evans Rachel , Florenzano Pablo , Hawkins Neil , Javaid Muhammad Kassim , Lachmann Robin , Ward Leanne M.
Published: July 2023

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a rare, progressive, genetic disease with multisystem impact that typically begins to manifest in early childhood. Two treatment options exist: oral phosphate in combination with active vitamin D (“conventional therapy”) and a fully human monoclonal anti-FGF23 antibody, burosumab. The clinical benefit of conventional therapy in adults is limited, and poor tolerance and complications are common. Burosumab was first approved as a treatment for XLH in 2018 and its disease-modifying benefits in clinical trials in children suggest burosumab treatment could also alter the disease course in adults. Without long-term clinical data on multiple XLH-related sequelae available, the results of an elicitation exercise are reported, in which eight global experts in XLH posited how long-term treatment with burosumab is anticipated to impact the life course of clinical sequelae in adults with XLH. Based on their clinical experiences, the available evidence and their disease understanding, the experts agreed that some long-term benefits of using burosumab are likely in adults with XLH even if they have a misaligned skeleton from childhood. Burosumab treatment is anticipated to reduce the incidence of fractures and halt the progression of clinical sequelae associated with conventional therapy. While the trajectories for established dental abscesses are not expected to improve with burosumab treatment, dental abscess development may be prevented. Starting treatment with burosumab in childhood to increase the likelihood of an aligned skeleton and continuation into and throughout adulthood to maintain euphosphatemia may optimize patient outcomes, although future real-world investigation is required to support this hypothesis.
New biomarkers: prospect for diagnosis and monitoring of thyroid disease
Authors: Macvanin Mirjana T. , Gluvic Zoran M. , Zaric Bozidarka L. , Essack Magbubah , Gao Xin , Isenovic Esma R.
Published: July 2023

After the metabolic syndrome and its components, thyroid disorders represent the most common endocrine disorders, with increasing prevalence in the last two decades. Thyroid dysfunctions are distinguished by hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or inflammation (thyroiditis) of the thyroid gland, in addition to the presence of thyroid nodules that can be benign or malignant. Thyroid cancer is typically detected via an ultrasound (US)-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) and cytological examination of the specimen. This approach has significant limitations due to the small sample size and inability to characterize follicular lesions adequately. Due to the rapid advancement of high-throughput molecular biology techniques, it is now possible to identify new biomarkers for thyroid neoplasms that can supplement traditional imaging modalities in postoperative surveillance and aid in the preoperative cytology examination of indeterminate or follicular lesions. Here, we review current knowledge regarding biomarkers that have been reliable in detecting thyroid neoplasms, making them valuable tools for assessing the efficacy of surgical procedures or adjunctive treatment after surgery. We are particularly interested in providing an up-to-date and systematic review of emerging biomarkers, such as mRNA and non-coding RNAs, that can potentially detect thyroid neoplasms in clinical settings. We discuss evidence for miRNA, lncRNA and circRNA dysregulation in several thyroid neoplasms and assess their potential for use as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
Long-term effects of restoration on the links between above-and belowground biodiversity in degraded Horqin sandy grassland, Northern China
Authors: Huang Wenda , He Yuanzheng , Wang Huaihai , Zhao Xin , Zhu Yuanzhong
Published: July 2023

Long-term ecological restoration plays an important role in the sustainable development of degraded grassland ecosystem. In this study, the levels of species diversity, genetic diversity and soil microbial diversity in restored grassland were measured by vegetation survey, DNA barcoding and soil microbial high-throughput sequencing technology, so as to explore the relationship between above- and belowground biodiversity and its driving factors in Horqin sandy grassland. In this study, the results found that herb are dominated in restoration grassland types. Plant species richness (SR) from post-non-grazing restoration plot (NGR) communities was significantly higher than other restoration communities (10 ± 1.1,p= 0.004). Genetic diversity indices of dominant plant species in chloroplast DNA (cpDNA), were remarkable greater than nuclear DNA (nrDNA) in each recovering sandy grassland plots (amplitude of difference was 44.8%–70.5% in allelic richness (AR), 81.9%–128.1% in expected heterozygosity (HE)). The soil bacterial and fungal richness from natural mobile dune grassland (NM) communities was notably lower than that from recovering grassland types (1641.9 ± 100.4,p< 0.001; 533 ± 16.6,p< 0.001). In this study, heterogeneous levels of genetic variability among different recovering sandy grassland types were detected. Correlation analyses revealed that there were positive correlations between species diversity and genetic diversity (SR& AR: r = 0.56,R2= 0.31,p< 0.001; SR& HE: r = 0.33,R2= 0.11,p= 0.045) and a negative correlation between soil microbial diversity and genetic diversity (r = -0.44,R2= 0.19,p= 0.005). The final structural equation model explained 38% of the variance in SR, 57% in AR, 52% in soil microbial diversity (SD), 49% in aboveground biomass (AGB), 87% in soil organic carbon (SOC), 47% in soil alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen (SAN) and 69% in soil available phosphorus (SOP). Long-term ecological restoration had significant direct positive effects on AGB, SOC, SAN, SOP, AR, SRand SD. There was a negative correlation between above- and belowground biodiversity and biological and abiotic factors. The results of this study have clarified the above- and underground biodiversity levels of sandy grassland and the relationship with driving factors under long-term ecological restoration measures, and will provide effective support for the management and sustainable development of sandy grassland.
Producers and drivers of odor compounds in a large drinking-water source
Authors: Qiu Pengfei , Zhang Yuheng , Mi Wujuan , Song Gaofei , Bi Yonghong
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Taste and odor (T&O) problems have been affecting drinking water safety. As a eutrophicated drinking water reservoir in Tianjin city, the Yuqiao Reservoir was threatened by 2-MIB and geosmin in recent years.

Methods

In this study, quantile regression analysis and metagenome were used to quickly and accurately screen the producers and drivers of 2-MIB and geosmin in this reservoir.

Results

The mean concentrations of 2-MIB and geosmin in the four-year were 103.58 ± 128.13 ng/L and 14.29 ± 27.95 ng/L, respectively. 2-MIB concentrations were higher in summer and autumn, with a bimodal variation throughout the year. Geosmin concentrations showed a decreasing trend from year to year from 2018 to 2021. Metagenome revealed that Pseudanabaena sp. dqh15, Microcoleus pseudautumnalis Ak1609, Pseudanabaena limnetica, and Planktothricoides raciborskii were the 2-MIB-producers, while Streptosporangium caverna and Dolichospermum circinale were the geosmin-producers. Multivariate quantile regression analysis indicated Pseudanabaena sp. and CODMn were the best predictors of 2-MIB concentrations, temperature and CODMn were the most useful parameters for describing geosmin concentration change. 2-MIB concentrations increased with the increase of Pseudanabaena sp. cell density and CODMn. Geosmin concentrations were higher at harsh temperatures and increased with higher CODMn. CODMn was significantly and positively correlated with the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites synthesis and terpenoid backone biosynthesis pathway. Both quantile regression and metagenome results showed that CODMn was an important driver of odor compounds.

Discussion

Metagenome achieved higher resolution of taxonomic annotation than amplicons to identify odor-producers, which helps us to understand the main taxa of odor-producing microorganisms in Chinese water bodies and the genetic basis of odor compounds in microorganisms. Understanding the sources and drivers of odor compounds was useful for improving taste and odor problem management. This is the first time that the main odor-producing microorganisms in water bodies have been resolved by microbial metagenomic functional gene prediction.
The effect of calcitriol on the development and implantation capacity of embryos from hyper-stimulated mice
Authors: Bognár Zoltán , Csabai- Tanics Timea Judith , Görgey Éva , Mikó Éva , Horváth-Szalai Zoltán , Szekeres-Barthó Júlia
Published: July 2023

The evidence concerning the role of vitamin D (VD) in reproduction is still inconclusive. Calcitriol was given to superovulated female mice at the time of FSH injection (Group A), or at day 0.5 of pregnancy (Group B). The retrieved and cultured embryos were transferred to the uteri of pseudopregnant females. Ten animals from each group conceived naturally, and at day 7.5 of pregnancy, the implantation sites were counted. Serum hormone concentrations were determined by ELISA. The expression of CD70, PD-L1, OX-40L, and PIBF on extracellular vesicles (EVs) was tested by flow cytometry. Calcitriol treatment did not alter serum oestradiol concentrations, while 25(OH) D levels significantly decreased in both treated groups. Progesterone concentrations were significantly higher in group A and lower in group B than in the controls. On EVs produced by group B embryos PIBF, CD70, and OX-40L expression were significantly lower, while that of PD-L1 was significantly higher than that of controls. Calcitriol treatment decreased the fertilization rate in group A, and the blastulation rate of cultured embryos in group B, while the implantation capacity of the embryos was not affected, suggesting that depending on the time of administration, VD has an adverse effect on oocyte maturation and embryo development, but not on the implantation rates.
Inhibition of MC38 colon cancer growth by multicomponent chemoimmunotherapy with anti-IL-10R antibodies, HES-MTX nanoconjugate, depends on application of IL-12, IL-15 or IL-18 secreting dendritic cell vaccines
Authors: Węgierek-Ciura Katarzyna , Mierzejewska Jagoda , Szczygieł Agnieszka , Rossowska Joanna , Wróblewska Anna , Świtalska Marta , Goszczyński Tomasz M. , Szermer-Olearnik Bożena , Pajtasz-Piasecka Elżbieta
Published: July 2023

Background

The tumor microenvironment (TME) provides a conducive environment for the growth and survival of tumors. Negative factors present in TME, such as IL-10, may limit the effectiveness of cellular vaccines based on dendritic cells, therefore, it is important to control its effect. The influence of IL-10 on immune cells can be abolished e.g., by using antibodies against the receptor for this cytokine - anti-IL-10R. Furthermore, the anticancer activity of cellular vaccines can be enhanced by modifying them to produce proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-12, IL-15 or IL-18. Additionally, an immunomodulatory dose of methotrexate and hydroxyethyl starch (HES-MTX) nanoconjugate may stimulate effector immune cells and eliminate regulatory T cells, which should enhance the antitumor action of immunotherapy based on DC vaccines. The main aim of our study was to determine whether the HES-MTX administered before immunotherapy with anti-IL-10R antibodies would change the effect of vaccines based on dendritic cells overproducing IL-12, IL-15, or IL-18.

Methods

The activity of modified DCs was checked in two therapeutic protocols - immunotherapy with the addition of anti-IL10R antibodies and chemoimmunotherapy with HES-MTX and anti-IL10R antibodies. The inhibition of tumor growth and the effectiveness of the therapy in inducing a specific antitumor response were determined by analyzing lymphoid and myeloid cell populations in tumor nodules, and the activity of restimulated splenocytes.

Results and conclusions

Using the HES-MTX nanoconjugate before immunotherapy based on multiple administrations of anti-IL-10R antibodies and cellular vaccines capable of overproducing proinflammatory cytokines IL-12, IL-15 or IL-18 created optimal conditions for the effective action of these vaccines in murine colon carcinoma MC38 model. The applied chemoimmunotherapy caused the highest inhibition of tumor growth in the group receiving DC/IL-15/IL-15Rα/TAg + DC/IL-18/TAg at the level of 72.4%. The use of cellular vaccines resulted in cytotoxic activity increase in both immuno- or chemoimmunotherapy. However, the greatest potential was observed both in tumor tissue and splenocytes obtained from mice receiving two- or three-component vaccines in the course of combined application. Thus, the designed treatment schedule may be promising in anticancer therapy.
Dispersion of deep-sea hydrothermal plumes at the Endeavour Segment of the Juan de Fuca Ridge: a multiscale numerical study
Authors: Xu Guangyu , German Christopher R.
Published: July 2023

A multiscale numerical framework has been developed to investigate the dispersion of deep-sea hydrothermal plumes that originate from the Endeavour Segment of the Juan de Fuca Ridge located in the Northeast Pacific. The analysis of simulation outputs presented in this study provides insights into the influences of tidal forcing and the buoyancy flux associated with hydrothermal venting on ocean circulation and plume dispersion in the presence of pronounced seafloor topography. The results indicate that tidal forcing drives anti-cyclonic circulation near the ridge-axis, while hydrothermal venting induces cyclonic circulation around vent fields within the axial rift valley. Tidal forcing has a notable impact on plume dispersion, particularly near the large topographic features to the north of the Endeavour Segment. Furthermore, plume dispersion exhibits notable inter-annual variability, with a northbound trajectory in 2016 and a southbound trajectory in 2021. The study also reveals that both buoyancy fluxes and tidal forcing enhance the mixing of hydrothermal plumes with ambient seawater.