bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dach1 is essential for maintaining normal mature podocytes
Authors: Tanaka Keiko , Hayasaka Haruko , Matsusaka Taiji
Published: May 2024

Dach1 is highly expressed in normal podocytes, but this expression rapidly disappears after podocyte injury. To investigate the role of Dach1 in podocytes in vivo, we analyzed global, podocyte-specific, and inducible Dach1 knockout mice. Global Dach1 knockout (Dach1-/-) mice were assessed immediately after birth because they die within a day. The kidneys of Dach1-/- mice were slightly smaller than those of control mice but maintained a normal structure and normal podocyte phenotypes, including ultrastructure. To study the role of Dach1 in mature podocytes, we generated Dach1 knockout mice by mating Dach1fl/fl mice with Nphs1-Cre or ROSA-CreERT2 mice. Due to inefficient Cre recombination, only a small number of podocytes lacked Dach1 staining in these mice. However, all eleven Nphs1-Cre/Dach1fl/fl mice displayed abnormal albuminuria, and seven (63%) of them developed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Among 13 ROSA-CreERT2/Dach1fl/fl mice, eight (61%) exhibited abnormal albuminuria after treatment with tamoxifen, and five (38%) developed early sclerotic lesions. These results indicate that while Dach1 does not determine the fate of differentiation into podocytes, it is indispensable for maintaining the normal integrity of mature podocytes.
Fungi and bacteria occupy distinct spatial niches within carious dentin
Authors: Sulyanto Rosalyn M. , Beall Clifford J. , Ha Kasey , Montesano Joseph , Juang Jason , Dickson John R. , Hashmi Shahr B. , Bradbury Seth , Leys Eugene J. , Edgerton Mira , Ho Sunita P. , Griffen Ann L.
Published: May 2024

The role of bacteria in the etiology of dental caries is long established, while the role of fungi has only recently gained more attention. The microbial invasion of dentin in advanced caries especially merits additional research. We evaluated the fungal and bacterial community composition and spatial distribution within carious dentin. Amplicon 16S rRNA gene sequencing together with quantitative PCR was used to profile bacterial and fungal species in caries-free children (n = 43) and 4 stages of caries progression from children with severe early childhood caries (n = 32). Additionally, healthy (n = 10) and carious (n = 10) primary teeth were decalcified, sectioned, and stained with Grocott’s methenamine silver, periodic acid Schiff (PAS) and calcofluor white (CW) for fungi. Immunolocalization was also performed using antibodies against fungal β-D-glucan, gram-positive bacterial lipoteichoic acid, gram-negative endotoxin, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans. We also performed field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) to visualize fungi and bacteria within carious dentinal tubules. Bacterial communities observed included a high abundance of S. mutans and the Veillonella parvula group, as expected. There was a higher ratio of fungi to bacteria in dentin-involved lesions compared to less severe lesions with frequent preponderance of C. albicans, C. dubliniensis, and in one case C. tropicalis. Grocott’s silver, PAS, CW and immunohistochemistry (IHC) demonstrated the presence of fungi within carious dentinal tubules. Multiplex IHC revealed that fungi, gram-negative, and gram-positive bacteria primarily occupied separate dentinal tubules, with rare instances of colocalization. Similar findings were observed with multiplex immunofluorescence using anti-S. mutans and anti-C. albicans antibodies. Electron microscopy showed monomorphic bacterial and fungal biofilms within distinct dentin tubules. We demonstrate a previously unrecognized phenomenon in which fungi and bacteria occupy distinct spatial niches within carious dentin and seldom co-colonize. The potential significance of this phenomenon in caries progression warrants further exploration.
Neoblast-like stem cells of Fasciola hepatica
Authors: McCusker Paul , Clarke Nathan G. , Gardiner Erica , Armstrong Rebecca , McCammick Erin M. , McVeigh Paul , Robb Emily , Wells Duncan , Nowak-Roddy Madelyn , Albaqami Abdullah , Mousley Angela , Coulter Jonathan A. , Harrington John , Marks Nikki J. , Maule Aaron G.
Published: May 2024

The common liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica) causes the disease fasciolosis, which results in considerable losses within the global agri-food industry. There is a shortfall in the drugs that are effective against both the adult and juvenile life stages within the mammalian host, such that new drug targets are needed. Over the last decade the stem cells of parasitic flatworms have emerged as reservoirs of putative novel targets due to their role in development and homeostasis, including at host-parasite interfaces. Here, we investigate and characterise the proliferating cells that underpin development in F. hepatica. We provide evidence that these cells are capable of self-renewal, differentiation, and are sensitive to ionising radiation— all attributes of neoblasts in other flatworms. Changes in cell proliferation were also noted during the early stages of in vitro juvenile growth/development (around four to seven days post excystment), which coincided with a marked reduction in the nuclear area of proliferating cells. Furthermore, we generated transcriptomes from worms following irradiation-based ablation of neoblasts, identifying 124 significantly downregulated transcripts, including known stem cell markers such as fgfrA and plk1. Sixty-eight of these had homologues associated with neoblast-like cells in Schistosoma mansoni. Finally, RNA interference mediated knockdown of histone h2b (a marker of proliferating cells), ablated neoblast-like cells and impaired worm development in vitro. In summary, this work demonstrates that the proliferating cells of F. hepatica are equivalent to neoblasts of other flatworm species and demonstrate that they may serve as attractive targets for novel anthelmintics.
Allelopathy of the essential oil of Fortunella margarita (Lour.) Swingle) in the germination on Helianthus annuus L. and Hordeum vulgare L.
Authors: Cavalheiro Bárbara Mendes , Rocha Anísio Correa da
Published: May 2024

Fortunella margarita known as ‘Kin-Kan or kumquat orange’ is a citrus species cultivated in South America with excellent adaptation to different climates, especially tropical. The fruits of F. margarita have a spectacular essential oil content. This study aimed to evaluate the allelopathic action of essential oil from ripe fruits of F. margarita in different concentrations on two large crops, sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and barley (Hordeum vulgare) in vitro. Ripe fruits of F. margarita were collected from an orchard in Rio Verde, Goiás, Brazil in January 2024. The skin of the fruits was removed and crushed to obtain the essential oil by Clevenger. The essential oil content obtained was expressed as a percentage (%). For the chemical profile, gas chromatography with sequential mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used. For the allelopathic assay, varying concentrations of essential oil were produced. The allelopathic test was carried out in acrylic germination boxes and kept in a D.B.O. vegetation chamber. The results were expressed as percentage of germination µL mL-1. The radicle length was determined using a digital caliper and expressed in centimeters (cm). Seven major volatile compounds were obtained (D-Limonene 22%, β-Phellandrene 12%, β-Pinene 11%, Germacrene D 9%, Bicyclosexquiphellandrene 8%, Trans-Arbuscolene and α-Guaiene both with 5%). The essential oil demonstrated strong allelopathic activity on sunflower germination rates, especially for concentrations greater than 12.5-100 µL mL-1, between 54.40 and 12.80%. Barley seeds demonstrated resistance and a rate greater than 50% at the highest concentration (100 µL mL-1). Radicle length also showed a significant difference (P < 0.05) in all essential oil concentrations. Again, sunflower was strongly affected, with average primary roots between 0.98 and 0.11 cm and between 2.77 and 0.11 cm for barley. The essential oil from the ripe fruits of Fortunella margarita has an allelopathic action on germination and a toxic effect on the development of primary roots in sunflower and barley seeds.
Rumen fermentation and nutrient utilization of growing Yankasa rams fed a mixed ration containing tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) residue and cowpea husk (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp)
Authors: Yakubu Hosea , Njidda Ahmed Amin , Butswat Isaac Sammani , Olafadehan Olurotimi Ayobami , Bankole Abayomi Samuel
Published: May 2024

Thirty (30) Yankasa growing rams were used to investigate the effect of feeding cowpea husk and tiger nut residue in a mixed ration on the rumen ecology, nutrient intake, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen balance of Yankasa rams. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in the rumen ecology, nutrient intake, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen balance between the treatments. Rumen ecology was influenced by the diet, with variations in rumen pH, temperature, and volatile fatty acid production. The results indicated that the highest rumen pH and temperature were observed in Treatment 2, while acetate, butyrate, and propionate levels varied among treatments. Nutrient intake and digestibility were significantly affected by the diet. Dry matter intake, crude protein intake, nitrogen detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) intake varied among treatments. Treatment 3 showed the highest dry matter intake, while Treatment 5 had the highest NDF intake. Crude protein intake was highest in Treatment 3, and the highest values for most nutrients were observed from the same treatment. The results for nitrogen balance in Yankasa rams indicate a positive nitrogen balance, suggesting that the rams received adequate amounts of nitrogen from the diets fed. Feeding 20% cowpea husk and 20% tiger nut residue provides optimum performance for rams in terms of rumen fermentation, and nutrient utilisation.
Tammy (1957)
Authors: Brewer Teresa , Page Patti , Rael Jack , Manning Dick , Reynolds Debbie , Fisher Eddie , Storm Gale , Guitar Bonnie , Day Doris
Published: May 2024

Two singers who were big in 1950 have huge years in 1957: Patti Page is back with “Old Cape Cod,” but the biggest song by a female singer is “Tammy” by Debbie Reynolds. Also, it is a big year for other movie and TV stars, such as Gale Storm and Doris Day, to hit the pop charts.
Maybe (1958)
Authors: Bergsman Steve
Published: May 2024

The more things stay the same, the more they fall apart. Jazz/Blues singer Julia Lee passes away, Dinah Washington notched another marriage dissolution, and Mickey and Sylvia go their separate ways as does the last of the great R&B male-female duos, Billy and Lillie. On the other hand, the first of true girl groups arrived: the Chantels and the Shirelles.
Private Spaces, Public Memories
Authors: King Stephen A. , Gatchet Roger Davis
Published: May 2024

Chapter four analyses the Amzie Moore House Museum and Interpretive Center in Cleveland and the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument in Jackson. Despite their similarities, both museums draw on distinct rhetorical strategies that evoke contrasting experiences and emotions for visitors. While both sites create points of identification between tourists, the activists who lived there, and the goals of the Mississippi movement, the Moore House does so by deemphasizing Amzie Moore as a biographical subject and instead using him to tell the larger story of the Mississippi Movement. The Evers House, by contrast, has a more singular focus on Medgar Evers, especially his assassination, and relegates Myrlie Evers—an important civil rights leader in her own right—to the role of mother and grieving widow. In doing so, the Moore House becomes a safe house, and the Evers House a house of death.
Sugar and Spice
Authors: Thomas Paul A.
Published: May 2024

Finn and Jake are the stars of Adventure Time, but they are far from the only characters that matter. Two other players of immense importance are the show’s major female characters: Princess Bubblegum of the Candy Kingdom and Marceline the Vampire Queen. Although both were introduced in season one as simplistic ciphers who do little more than inaugurate episode plots, Bubblegum and Marceline quickly grew into two of the show’s most interesting characters. This chapter explores the origins of these two characters, their development, and their complex relationship with one another—a relationship that began as a simple rivalry and bloomed into one of the most famous queer romances in the world of animation.
High Tide, Low Tide
Authors: Lemco Amy
Published: May 2024

This chapter explores the fight for school desegregation. According to newspaper reports, the defense claimed desegregation of schools in other states resulted in a lowering of school standards, difficulty in keeping a good faculty, and a decrease in matriculation to college. However, the concern that the curricula would be destroyed by the desegregation of the schools was never realized, since Harrison County students continued to win honors at every level of competition. The chapter considers the continued conflict of the Black community's right to use the beaches. In mid-August 1968, Judge James Coleman ruled the beach property was held in perpetual public ownership and that to find otherwise would violate the state constitution.
Chris Desjardins
Authors: Ensminger David A.
Published: May 2024

This chapter focuses on the writer, recording engineer, and lead singer of the Flesh Eaters as well as Divine Horsemen. As an embodiment of modern cool, he links together film studies, the early days of fanzine writing, and the musical underbelly of Los Angeles. He also lends insight into the process of songwriting, the changing nature of punk as violence-tinged hardcore became more prevalent, and the role of roots-and countercultural rock'n'roll music in shaping punk’s turn towards source material like blues 45s and an appreciation for the early works of hard psychedelic music.
Alejandro Escovedo
Authors: Ensminger David A.
Published: May 2024

This chapter focuses on the towering modern troubadour Alejandro Escovedo, formerly of the Nuns, whose work with Rank and File helped cement the roots-punk genre, while his solo career has witnessed his multi-layered approach to navigating and exploring ethnicity, family lore, racism, survival, and personal transformation.
I’se Got a Gal and You Got None
Authors: Gutstein Dan
Published: May 2024

This chapter portrays the stunning ascendancy of “Little Liza Jane,” which leapt into popular culture after decades spent largely in folk tradition. A song typically sung by male performers, it was the enigmatic Countess Ada de Lachau who published sheet music for “Li’l Liza Jane” in 1916, to be featured in a San Francisco stage production of Come out of the Kitchen. The play then travelled to Broadway, all the while starring actress Ruth Chatterton, who became the first performer to recite this rendition. Several popular recordings would follow, and the lyrics would be included in a songbook given to every U.S. serviceman heading to the European battlefields, making “Little Liza Jane” one of the most popular songs during the World War I era. It would eventually become the most popular branch in a crowded (and popular) family tree.
1 »Besser ausstellen!«
Authors: Holtwick Bernd
Published: May 2024

Qualitätskriterien für Ausstellungen (auch in Museen) sind nicht allgemein, sondern stets nur im konkreten Fall zu definieren. Das muss auch im Hinblick auf die Überprüfbarkeit geschehen. Der Beitrag umreißt verschiedene Ansätze, um Qualität zu bestimmen, und plädiert für eine permanente methodisch kontrollierte Reflexion der gesetzten Ziele und ihrer Erreichung. Dazu gehören etwa Museums-Gütesiegel und Standards von Museumsverbänden. Auch Ansätze aus der Publikumsforschung werden berücksichtigt. Solche Ansätze sind hilfreich, müssen aber spezifiziert und kontinuierlich weiter entwickelt werden. Das Museum soll dadurch zu einer lernenden Organisation werden.
8 Jenseits des Museums
Authors: Liszt Peter
Published: May 2024

Peter Liszt widmet sich den Storytelling im Ausstellungswesen, welches oft auf den ersten Blick primär im institutionellen Kontext stattfindet. Auch der Fokus der musealen Wissenschaft und der ausstellungsaffinen Besucher*innen konzentriert sich fast ausschließlich auf diese Einrichtungen. In den letzten Jahren entstanden jedoch abseits klassischer Institutionen zahlreiche innovative und erfolgreiche Ausstellungskonzepte, z.B. in Erlebniswelten, Popup-Museen, Expo-Pavillons oder in Form von "klassischen" Wanderausstellungen. Die dabei beteiligten Akteur*innen erschlossen mit ihren Inszenierungen nicht nur neue Medien, Orte und neue Besucher*innengruppen, sondern brachen zwangsläufig auch mit traditionellen Vermittlungskontexten.
12 Mehr sehen
Authors: Gorr Claudia
Published: May 2024

Claudia Gorr widmet sich der Triangulation als Ansatz zur Gütesicherung in der Ausstellungsevaluation. Im Rahmen einer Besucherstudie im Science Center experimenta Heilbronn zur Wirkung einer Ausstellungsetage wurden Datenquellen und Erhebungsmethoden miteinander kombiniert. Über die Methode des Timing & Tracking ließen sich Catching- und Holding-Power der Exponate bestimmen, eine verdeckte Beobachtung mit anschließendem Interview zielte auf eine Tiefenanalyse des Verhaltens und des Verständnisses der Besuchenden an Einzelexponaten ab und ein Exit-Interview erfasste retrospektiv Erwartungserfüllung und Erinnerung. Die Triangulation erfasste unterschiedliche Facetten der Ausstellungswirkung, die teils komplementär zueinanderstanden, insgesamt aber zu einem ganzheitlichen, robusteren Verständnis von Lernen in Ausstellungen führten.
QueerBeograd Cabaret
Authors: Marjanovic Ivana
Published: May 2024

The clandestine festival QueerBeograd created spaces of critique and transformation in order to foster a politics of interconnectedness. Ivana Marjanovi explores the festival's transnational activist cabaret between 2006 and 2008, which was devised, directed and produced by Jet Moon, a founding member of the QueerBeograd collective. This pioneering study demonstrates how the process of staging QueerBeograd Cabaret created a shared space between queer, anti-fascism and No Borders politics, contributing to the advancement of the intersectionality perspective beyond identity. The study thus investigates historical genealogies of gender and political difference in the former and post-Yugoslav space, bringing these into relation with global social and art movements.
Geopolitik versus Ordnungspolitik? Sprengkraft innerhalb der EU durch die Zeitenwende
Authors: Matthes Jürgen
Published: May 2024

Sollte die Politik den Kompass der Ordnungspolitik hinter sich lassen, um auf die Herausforderungen der Zeitenwende und der grünen Transformation zu reagieren? Insbesondere die Abhängigkeit Europas von China hat zu der Diskussion geführt, ob der Staat möglicherweise eine größere Rolle übernehmen sollte. Die Europäische Kommission befürwortet eine aktive Rolle der Politik, einschließlich Subventionen zur Verringerung der Abhängigkeiten bei erneuerbaren Energien, Rohstoffen und Halbleitern. Verschiedene Gründe stellen jedoch wichtige Aspekte dieses Ansatzes in Frage, wie z.B. knappe finanzielle Ressourcen der EU-Staaten. Insgesamt sind manche alte industriepolitische Gewissheiten zwar nicht mehr haltbar, doch kann die Ordnungspolitik nach wie vor wertvolle politische Orientierungshilfe leisten.
»Deaf History« als Wissenschaftsgeschichte
Authors: Werner Anja
Published: May 2024

Seit 1945 gab es in westlichen Ländern und der Sowjetunion neue Forschungsimpulse zur Kommunikation gehörloser Menschen, die u.a. über internationale Konferenzen der UNESCO und des Weltverbands der Gehörlosen im geteilten Deutschland alte Traditionen der Sprachvermittlung in Frage stellten. Anja Werner analysiert historisch die Erforschung nationaler Gebärdensprachen im interdisziplinären Dialog mit der zeitgleich stattfindenden Entwicklung hörverstärkender Innenohrprothesen (Cochlea-Implantate). Sie verdeutlicht, dass konstruktive Wissenschaftskooperation nötig ist, um die mit der Kommunikation tauber Menschen verbundenen Herausforderungen komplett zu erfassen - aber auch, um Möglichkeiten zum Fortschritt aufzuzeigen.
La educación Montessori hoy. Una investigación en la escuela primaria
Authors: Scippo Stefano
Published: May 2024

La educación Montessori, ideada por María Montessori en el siglo XX, busca eliminar barreras al desarrollo del potencial de cada niño, sean cuales sean sus condiciones socioeconómicas. Actualmente, este método pedagógico cuenta con más de 15,000 escuelas en todo el mundo y, en Italia y España sigue expandiéndose. Este volumen aborda una investigación realizada en Italia y los inicios de un estudio similar en España, evaluando cómo esta pedagogía se implementa y sus resultados concretos. La investigación explora la hipótesis de que el enfoque Montessori debería facilitar aprendizajes diferenciados y el desarrollo de habilidades socioafectivas. Los datos indican que los estudiantes Montessori, en pruebas de evaluación externas de lenguaje y matemáticas, alcanzan resultados similares o superiores a otros alumnos de similar contexto socioeconómico, mostrando una mayor heterogeneidad en matemáticas que en parte respalda la hipótesis de aprendizajes diferenciados. Con respecto a las habilidades socioafectivas, los estudiantes Montessori destacan en la empatía. Sin embargo, el estudio sugiere que la implementación del modelo Montessori no es completamente efectiva en las escuelas primarias italianas. De hecho, sólo la mitad de los maestros Montessori consigue seguir fielmente sus principios, limitados por el sistema educativo actual en aspectos como la evaluación, la autonomía infantil, la organización del tiempo, la agrupación por edades y la formación docente. Este análisis concluye que serían necesarias reformas para una adopción más auténtica y efectiva de la pedagogía Montessori, permitiendo así un desarrollo más libre y armónico de los niños.
Nanoparticles of Chitosan and Bougainvillea Leaf Extract: Characterization and Its Application to Control Bean common mosaic virus strain Blackeye Cowpea
Authors: Islami Nisa Fadhila , Damayanti Tri Asmira , Santoso Sugeng , Akhiruddin Akhiruddin
Published: May 2024

Kitosan dan ekstrak kasar daun bugenvil diketahui mampu mengendalikan beberapa virus tanaman termasuk Bean common mosaic virus strain Blackeye Cowpea (BCMV-BlC). Untuk mengurangi penggunaan bahan baku dan peningkatan keefektifan juga stabilitasnya, kedua bahan perlu disintesis menggunakan teknologi nanpopartikel (NP). Penelitian bertujuan menyintesis nanopartikel kitosan, ekstrak daun bugenvil, dan kombinasinya menggunakan modifikasi metode gelasi ionik, mengarakterisasi NP dan mengevaluasi potensi NP untuk mengendalikan BCMV-BlC pada tanaman indikator Chenopodium amaranticolor. Nanopartikel kitosan (Kit-NP), ekstrak daun bugenvil (EDB-NP), dan kombinasinya (KEDB-NP) berhasil disintesis dengan rata-rata ukuran partikel berturut-turut sebesar 99.72, 163.68, dan 221.42 nm berdasarkan pengamatan di bawah transmission electron microscope (TEM) dan berbentuk bola (sferis) berdasarkan hasil analisis scanning electron microscope (SEM). Hasil analisis fourier transform infrared (FTIR), KEDB-NP menunjukkan gugus fungsi berturut-turut hidroksil, alkena, amina, cincin aromatik, dan senyawa alifatik organohalogen. Daun C. amaranticolor yang diberi perlakuan Kit-NP, EDB-NP, KEDB-NP dan juga non-NP pada konsentrasi 100-800 ppm sebelum inokulasi virus menunjukkan jumlah rata-rata lesio lokal nekrotik (LLN) nyata lebih rendah dibandingkan kontrol tanaman sakit tanpa perlakuan dan tidak berbeda nyata antarkonsentrasi. Perlakuan NP dan non-NP sebelum inokulasi virus secara nyata memperpanjang periode inkubasi dan menekan pembentukan LLN dengan keefektifan 67.5%–100% dibandingkan dengan aplikasi setelah inokulasi virus. Di antara konsentrasi yang diuji, konsentrasi NP antara 100 dan 300 ppm yang diaplikasikan sebelum penularan virus menunjukkan paling efektif dalam menghambat pembentukan LLN. Sintesis EDB-NP, Kit-NP, dan KEDB-NP menggunakan sangat sedikit bahan baku, namun keefektifannya sebanding dengan bentuk non-NPnya dalam mengendalikan infeksi BCMV.
Comparison of regenerative potential of petals, stamens and pistils of five Sedum species in vitro
Authors: Wojciechowicz Maria K.
Published: May 2024

The regeneration potential of different explants from flower buds (petals, stamen and pistils) was studied in Sedum acre, S. aizoon, S. floriferum, S. gracile and S. spectabile. The effects of MS medium, supplemented with nine PGR combinations of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP 1.0-3.0 mg l-1) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA 0.1-1.5 mg l-1) on regeneration, were compared. Regenerated plants were obtained in cultures of petal, stamen and pistil in all studies species. Three-way analysis of variance allowed to assess the effect of medium composition, explant type and genotype on regeneration potential, expressed as the percentage of regenerating explants and the average number of shoots produced from the explants. All analysed factors significantly affected the regeneration process. PGR composition had the most significant effect on the average number of produced shoots. MS medium containing 3.0 mg/l BAP and 1.0 mg/l IBA proved to be optimal for plant regeneration in Sedum. Explant type had the most significant effect on the percentage of regenerating explants. For petals the percentage of regenerating explants (40%) was nearly twice as high as in other explant types. Genotype had the most significant effect on the average number of regenerated shoots. The highest number of regenerated shoots per explant (3.25) was recorded in S. floriferum.
Distribution and the resources of Sea Holly (Eryngium maritimum L.) on the western shore of the Gulf of Gdańsk
Authors: Żółkoś Katarzyna , Afranowicz Renata , Bloch-Orłowska Joanna , Kozieł Kamila
Published: May 2024

Studies on the distribution of Sea Holly were carried out in summer 2006 along a 150 km stretch of the western shore of the Gulf of Gdańsk, between Władysławowo and Świbno, including the Hel Peninsula. Besides our own research, all available historical and contemporary literature was analyzed to reconstruct changes of Sea Holly distribution that have taken place in the studied area since 1848. During the field research altogether 6480 individuals of Eryngium maritimum L. were found and 53% of them grew on a 2 km long section of the shore between Rewa and Mechelinki. Other populations of the species were observed on the Sobieszewo Island, the Hel Peninsula, between Westerplatte and Górki Zachodnie and in Babie Doły. The greatest changes in Sea Holly distribution during the last 160 years have taken place at the base and in the middle part of the Hel Peninsula and from Mechelinki to Gdańsk. Vanishing of the species populations was mostly a consequence of transformations of coastal habitats, related to the development of towns and ports as well as to increasing tourist pressure. The results of investigations point out at an urgent need for monitoring and protection of the existing populations of Eryngium maritimum. At present, only one locality is under the law protection as a nature reserve (‘Mechelińskie Łąki’), but even this one is highly threatened by tourist pressure. Hitherto protection of Sea Holly is insufficient and should be extended to the protection of all habitats suitable for the species.
Influence of railway transport in the South-East of Slovakia on formation of adventive flora in Central Europe
Authors: Jehlík Vladimír , Dostálek Jiří
Published: May 2024

The contribution features data on the occurrence of plants introduced mostly by the year 1979 via grain railway transports from the territory of former USSR (mostly south of Ukraine, South-East of the European part of Russia, Central Asia) to the areas of 3 selected railway transhipment stations (Čierna nad Tisou and its wider vicinity) in the “Východoslovenská nížina” (East-Slovakian Plain), in the Slovak Republic. On these localities, approximately 500 species of vascular plants are present, of which around one third is recognized as phytogeographically important (in total, 144 taxa). This new reservoir of diasporas of eastern synanthropic plant species can have a significant impact on the present diversity of Slovak flora as well as flora of neighbouring countries. Almost half of those 144 species, listed in the contribution, have more or less continental distribution. In majority it concerns thermophilous steppe and forest-steppe to semi-desert species (the latter ones only very rarely) of southern territories, which is correlated of the South-East of Slovakia. Moreover, for the first time, two following species, introduced into the transhipment station in Čierna nad Tisou from the East, are published for the flora of Slovakia: Artemisia dniproica Klokov and Centaurea adpressa (Ledeb.) Prodan. Apart from continental species, also Mediterranean species s.l. are frequently present. In addition, the number of North American species is relatively high. They were spreading in a westerly direction, probably from the East, where they have already become occasionally naturalised. All these species gradually enrich the eastern migration route of adventive plants in Central Europe.
The synanthropic flora of kurgans within three steppe zones in southern Ukraine
Authors: Sudnik-Wójcikowska Barbara , Moysiyenko Ivan I.
Published: May 2024

The aim of the studies conducted in 2004-2008 was to estimate and compare the diversity of synanthropic flora of the kurgans and their microhabitats in three steppe zones in southern Ukraine. Kurgans located among large fields and pastures are very characteristic element of the Ukrainian landscape. Among the 400 visited kurgans, 81 were investigated within an area of about 20 000 km2 in the desert steppe, Pontic grass steppe and herb-grass steppe zones. The total number of species (613), as well as percentage of synanthropic species (55%) was estimated. The number of species on the kurgans in each zone increased along a south-north gradient. However, the percentage of groups of synanthropic species on the kurgans was comparable. Differences between microhabitats (within kurgans) with regard to the proportion of synanthropes were smaller in the case of the desert steppe zone. Contrasts between the microhabitats were more significant in the case of the steppe zones further to the north. The flora of kurgans is determined by the climate conditions of a particular zone and by the form of utilization of the area.
On the heat kernel of the Rumin complex and Calderón reproducing formula
Authors: Ciatti Paolo , Franchi Bruno , Sire Yannick
Published: May 2024

We derive several properties of the heat equation with the Hodge operator associated with the Rumin’s complex on Heisenberg groups and prove several properties of the fundamental solution. As an application, we use the heat kernel for Rumin’s differential forms to construct a Calderón reproducing formula on Rumin’s forms.
Cubic autocatalysis implementation in blood for non-Newtonian tetra hybrid nanofluid model through bounded artery
Authors: Al-Kouz Wael , Owhaib Wahib , Souayeh Basma , Hader Montasir , Homod Raad Z.
Published: May 2024

Tetra hybrid nanofluids are significant due to their unique properties like thermal and electrical conductivity enhancement, increased heat transfer, and improved fluid flow characteristics. This attempt proposes a tetra hybrid cross nanofluid model with the implementation of cubic autocatalysis in the context of blood flow passing through a stenosis artery. The model includes the effects of nanofluid, magnetic field, thermal radiation, and the cubic autocatalysis mechanism. This research investigates the innovative application of cubic autocatalysis within the context of blood flow through a tetra hybrid cross nanofluid model, specifically designed to simulate conditions within a stenosis horizontal artery. The equations governing the fluid flow are solved using the bvp5c method, and the numerical solutions are obtained for various parameter values. Specifically, the cubic autocatalysis mechanism profoundly impacts the velocity and concentration profiles of the blood flow. The proposed model and the obtained results provide new insights into the physics of blood flow passing through stenosis arteries. They may have important implications for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. This article has a unique combination of tetra hybrid cross nanofluid model, cubic autocatalysis, and blood flow passing through the stenosis artery. These facts are not typically studied together in the context of blood flow.
Vitamin D deficiency and inflammatory markers in type 2 diabetes: Big data insights
Authors: Shan Rujie , Zhang Qi , Ding Yusen , Zhang Lei , Dong Yanhu , Gao Weiguo
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency and its association with inflammatory markers and type 2 diabetes. We conducted our research at Qingdao Endocrine and Diabetes Hospital, where serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels were determined for 2,806 individuals with type 2 diabetes aged 30 and older between January 2018 and December 2019. Medical records were analyzed, and data on health, blood lipids, HbA1c, and inflammation were collected. Our results revealed a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the population. Among male and female patients, median serum 25(OH)D3 levels were 22.46 and 19.00 ng/mL, respectively. More than 60% of female patients had vitamin D deficiency, with over 80% having levels below 30 ng/mL. We observed a favorable connection between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and 25(OH)D3, while triglycerides and HbA1c showed negative correlations. As 25(OH)D3 levels increased, inflammatory markers such as hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), white blood cell count, neutrophil count, and monocyte count decreased (trend test, p < 0.05), although peripheral blood lymphocytes initially increased and then decreased. After controlling for age and gender, multiple linear regression analysis indicated negative correlations between ESR, hsCRP, and white blood cell count with 25(OH)D3 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, our study demonstrates that individuals with type 2 diabetes often exhibit vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency, which is associated with elevated levels of inflammatory markers in the blood.
Structure, function, and recombinant production of EGFL7
Authors: McDonald Brennan , Schmidt Mirko H. H.
Published: May 2024

The secreted factor Epidermal growth factor-like protein 7 (EGFL7) is involved in angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, as well as neurogenesis. Importantly, EGFL7 is also implicated in various pathological conditions, including tumor angiogenesis in human cancers. Thus, understanding the mechanisms through which EGFL7 regulates and promotes blood vessel formation is of clear practical importance. One principle means by which EGFL7’s function is investigated is via the expression and purification of the recombinant protein. This mini-review describes three methods used to produce recombinant EGFL7 protein. First, a brief overview of EGFL7’s genetics, structure, and function is provided. This is followed by an examination of the advantages and disadvantages of three common expression systems used in the production of recombinant EGFL7; (i) Escherichia coli (E. coli), (ii) human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells or other mammalian cells, and (iii) a baculovirus-based Sf9 insect cell expression system. Based on the available evidence, we conclude that the baculovirus-based Sf9 insect cell expression currently has the advantages of producing active recombinant EGFL7 in the native conformation with the presence of acceptable posttranslational modifications, while providing sufficient yield and stability for experimental purposes.
Doing History at the Edge of the Map: The “Digital Thrace” Research Project
Authors: Palikidis Angelos
Published: May 2024

“Digital Thrace: Mapping the History and Culture to Enhance the Tourist Economy” is a three-year (2021–2023) research project conducted by the Democritus University of Thrace. “Thrace,” a geographical rather than a regional or political designation, is divided into three nation-states (Greece, Bulgaria, and Turkey). Despite historical nationalist conflicts and ethnic stereotypes, Thrace maintains its multicultural character. This article shows that the Digital Thrace Project not only generates research but also transforms it into knowledge and cultural experiences for visitors. It bridges the gap between academic historiography and cultural studies on one side and the public space on the other. This multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary project employs cutting-edge technologies to provide two main components to its users: a digital platform primarily aimed at researchers and educators, and a digital tour application for the general public. Special attention is devoted to the project’s pedagogical section. Based on the principles and methodologies of intercultural and democratic education, over 30 educational projects have been designed for primary and secondary school classes. These projects aim to engage students in exploring not only the history and culture of their own communities but also those of the others.
Certain radii problems for 𝓢∗(ψ) and special functions
Authors: Gangania Kamaljeet , Kumar S. Sivaprasad
Published: May 2024

In Geometric function theory, the Ma-Minda class of starlike functions has a unique place as it unifies various subclasses of starlike functions. There has been an vivid interplay between special functions and their geometric properties, like starlikeness. In this article, we establish certain special function’s radius of Ma-Minda starlikness. As an application, we obtain conditions on parameters for these special functions to be in the Ma-Minda class. Further, we focus on certain convolution properties for the Ma-Minda class that are not done so far, and study their applications in radius problem. Finally, we prove a variational problem of Goluzin, namely, the region of variability for the Ma-Minda class. Our results simplify and generalize the already-known ones.
Biological potentials of Landolphia owariensis leaf methanolic extract against pathogenic fungi isolates from different Dioscorea species
Authors: Okechukwu Olaitan C. , Adesanya Enitan O.
Published: May 2024

Regarding economic significance, the Dioscoreaceae family, which includes the well-known Dioscorea (yam) species, is the fourth most important tuber crop globally. A basic meal found all across the world, yams encourage and ensure the food security of households. Although they are challenging to preserve and store however a post-harvest deterioration control must be developed. Over the years, Nigerian farmers have employed medicinal herbs to manage post-harvest pest invasion; nevertheless, the scientific basis for this fungal management has not yet been well documented. As a result, Landolphia owarensis leaf extract was used as a biological control, and fungi were isolated from Dioscorea cayenensis, Dioscorea alata, and Discorea rotundata. Samples of yam tubers – both rotten and healthy – were procured in the markets and brought to the lab for fungus isolation and identification. Leaves of Landolphia oweriensis were collected, air-dried, milled, and macerated in pure methanol for 72 h, extracted and concentrated with a rotary evaporator. The agar-well diffusion method was used for the biological control assay against the fungal isolates. The biological control results were presented as mean ± SD (standard deviation) while analysis of variance (Anova) was used to deduce least significant difference (LSD). A total number of 605 fungi isolates were observed in which D. cayenensis had the highest, 50.58 %, D. alata and Discorea rotundata 24.71 % respectively. Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus fumigatus were found in the three species while Aspergillus flavus, Rhizopus stolonifer, Collentotricum spp. and Penicillium spp. in either of the species. L. owarensis methanolic leaves extracts possesses biological potentials against Colletotrium spp., A. fumigatus, A. niger and A. flavus only. The problem of postharvest fungal invasion of Dioscorea species can be solved with the inhibition observed with L. owarensis methanolic leaves extracts as a biological control measure thereby sustaining food security in the world.
Enhanced properties of Nafion nanofibrous proton exchange membranes by altering the electrospinning solvents
Authors: Li Shufeng , Gu Ruxin , Luo Ru , Cheng Xinyao , Li Xuelin
Published: May 2024

Nanofibrous proton exchange membranes (PEMs) play an important role in improving the performance of the fuel cells. In this paper, two kinds of Nafion nanofibrous PEMs, Nafion-E/W and Nafion-DMF, were fabricated respectively by using ethanol/water (E/W) and N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF) as the solvent and their properties, such as the morphologies, water uptake, area swelling, ion exchange capabilities, conductivities, and mechanical properties were examined. Nafion-E/W nanofibers showed a thick diameter of 6,089 nm and Nafion-DMF nanofibers a thin diameter of 410 nm. Then the two Nafion nanofibers were annealed to provide the PEMs. Compared with Nafion 117 membranes and Nafion-DMF PEMs, Nafion-E/W PEMs showed the greatest water uptake and area swelling of respectively 59.75 % and 30.31 % and the conductivity increased to 0.1405 S/cm, more than twice as much as Nafion 117 membranes, but the broken stress decreased to 5.49 MPa, nearly half of Nafion 117 membranes. Nafion-DMF PEMs showed the lowest water uptake, area swelling, and conductivity of 22.67 %, 10.75 %, and 0.0410 S/cm, and the broken stress reached 14.20 MPa, greater than 11.0 MPa of Nafion 117 membranes. The obtained experimental results are instructive to improve the properties of Nafion PEMs.
Task-based EEG and fMRI paradigms in a multimodal clinical diagnostic framework for disorders of consciousness
Authors: Lo Chris Chun Hei , Woo Peter Yat Ming , Cheung Vincent C. K.
Published: May 2024

Disorders of consciousness (DoC) are generally diagnosed by clinical assessment, which is a predominantly motor-driven process and accounts for up to 40 % of non-communication being misdiagnosed as unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) (previously known as prolonged/persistent vegetative state). Given the consequences of misdiagnosis, a more reliable and objective multimodal protocol to diagnosing DoC is needed, but has not been produced due to concerns regarding their interpretation and reliability. Of the techniques commonly used to detect consciousness in DoC, task-based paradigms (active paradigms) produce the most unequivocal result when findings are positive. It is well-established that command following (CF) reliably reflects preserved consciousness. Task-based electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can detect motor-independent CF and reveal preserved covert consciousness in up to 14 % of UWS patients. Accordingly, to improve the diagnostic accuracy of DoC, we propose a practical multimodal clinical decision framework centered on task-based EEG and fMRI, and complemented by measures like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS-EEG).
ALTERNATİF PROTEİN KAYNAĞI OLARAK YENİLEBİLİR BÖCEKLER VE TÜKETİCİ KABULÜ
Authors: Özdal Harun Reşit , Nakilcioğlu Emine
Published: May 2024

Böcekler antik çağlardan beri birçok kültürde yerel mutfağın bir parçası olmuştur. Dünyanın birçok bölgesinde hali hazırda tüketilmekte olan böceklerin besin içeriği, onların alternatif protein kaynağı olarak da dikkat çekmesine sebep olmuştur. Dünya nüfusunun yaklaşık %10’u gıdaya erişim konusunda problem yaşamakta, neredeyse 1 milyar insan yetersiz beslenmeye bağlı hastalıklarla karşı karşıya gelmektedir. Artan nüfusun gıda talebini karşılamak için mevcut gıda üretim modeli yetersiz kaldığı gibi, nüfusa bağlı olarak artan tarımsal üretim de atmosfere daha fazla sera gazı salınımına sebep olarak küresel ısınmayı hızlandırmaktadır. Böcekler yüksek protein içerikleri sayesinde nüfusun protein ihtiyacını karşılamak için geleneksel hayvan proteinlerinin yerini alabilecek potansiyele sahiptir. Ancak bu hususta yetkili otoritelerin gıda güvenliği endişeleri olduğu gibi, tüketici kabulünde de zorluklar bulunmaktadır. Üretim modelleri ve ileri işleme teknikleri ile gıda güvenliği endişelerinin, farklı pazarlama ve market stratejileri ile de tüketici kabulünde yaşanan zorlukların üstesinden gelmek mümkündür. Bu derlemede alternatif protein kaynağı olarak yenilebilir böceklerin potansiyeli ve yenilebilir böceklere olan tüketici tutumu değerlendirilmiştir.
Virtual display of wooden furniture cultural relics based on laser and CT scanning technology
Authors: Zhao Guiling , He Xi , Cai Jiaqing , Deng Zhongji , Liu Dan
Published: May 2024

The 3D reconstruction and virtual display of wooden furniture cultural relics were investigated using laser scanning and CT scanning techniques. The suitability of different 3D reconstruction techniques and virtual display approaches were considered. The experiments demonstrated that digital models obtained from both laser scanning and CT scanning can be integrated seamlessly into virtual environments created with 3DMAX for exhibition purposes. Additionally, post-processing software, such as PR or AE, can be utilized to synthesize virtual display video. The resulting images exhibit self-adaptation capabilities, with clear and undistorted 3D model and texture image. Moreover, other types of scanned models are suitable for 3D micro-scale model printing, although CT-based models tend to achieve higher printing accuracy compared to those generated by laser scanning technology. However, the precision of 3D printing model is contingent upon factors such as the precision of digital model, the type of printer, and the printing material.
Group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Reducing Anxiety in Middle-Aged Women
Authors: Rinaldi Martaria Rizky , Musawwamah Qisthi Al
Published: May 2024

Middle-aged women are susceptible to experiencing anxiety, which, if left untreated, can lead to decreased productivity and hinder social interactions, ultimately impacting overall well-being. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral group therapy in alleviating anxiety in middle-aged women. The research design employed a quasi-experimental approach with a one-group pre-test-post-test design and follow-up assessment. The participants included seven middle-aged women aged between 53 and 60 years (mean age = 56.71). They were selected based on screening results using the DASS42 anxiety scale, which indicated severe and very severe anxiety. Data collection consisted of pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessments using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Data were analyzed using the repeated measures ANOVA method. The results of the data analysis revealed an F-value of 120, p < .001, indicating significant differences between the pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessments. Specifically, significant differences were found between pre-test and post-test (p < .001), pre-test and follow-up (p < .001), and post-test and follow-up (p < .001) results. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral group therapy in reducing anxiety among middle-aged women. Therefore, cognitive-behavioral group therapy emerges as a viable intervention for addressing anxiety in this demographic.