bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
„You Can Run but You Can’t Hide “– The Role of Avoidant Coping in Mental Health of Athletes during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Barzut Vesna , Đurović Dušanka , Novakov Ivana
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to investigate the psychological functioning of athletes in Serbia during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated the relationships of different coping strategies (problem-focused, emotion-focused, and avoidant coping), intolerance of uncertainty, and perceived levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. A total of 117 athletes took part in this study (62.40% male, average age 29.95). The results showed that the use of avoidant coping and problem-focused strategies were associated with poorer indicators of mental health. Furthermore, intolerance of uncertainty had both direct and indirect (via avoidant coping strategies) effects on experienced levels of depression, anxiety, and stress.
Theoretical models of Short Dark Tetrad (SD4) and its relationship with socially desirable responding: Findings on the Croatian version
Authors: Wertag Anja , Ribar Maja , Sučić Ines
Published: May 2023

The interest in the so-called dark traits in the area of individual differences is rising, and there are several instruments assessing currently the most prominent dark traits constellation, the Dark Tetrad. The first aim of this study was to examine the structure of the newly developed Short Dark Tetrad (SD4) measure in the Croatian context using latent variable modeling and testing two competing models: the confirmatory factor analytic model with four interrelated factors where items load only on their respective trait or factor, and the bifactor model with both the general “dark” factor where all the items load on and four specific orthogonal factors on which only their respective items load. The second aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the Dark Tetrad traits and egoistic and moralistic socially desirable responding. Data were collected on a convenience sample of 439 participants (81% female) in Croatia. The results showed that, although some of the fit statistics of both tested models fell somewhat below the conventional acceptable fit threshold, their values were comparable to those from the original validation study, indicating that the Croatian version of SD4 is valid and can be used to assess the Dark Tetrad traits. Moreover, relations between the Dark Tetrad traits and egoistic and moralistic socially desirable responding point to the distinctiveness of narcissism from the rest of the Dark Tetrad.
Reconsidering the limited role of right heart catheterization on severe pulmonary hypertension-due to progressive interstitial lung disease in young male patient : a case report
Authors: Abubakar Megawati , Hartopo Anggoro Budi , Trisnawati Ika , Budiono Eko , Anggrahini Dyah Wulan , Kris Dinarti Lucia
Published: May 2023

Pulmonary hypertension (PH)-associated with interstitial lung disease (ILD) develops as a consequence of progressive underlying lung disease or disproportionately to the underlying disease. The PH investigation by right heart catheterization (RHC) for defining PH severity is recommended in patients with ILD who show more severe symptoms than expected from lung disease, appearance of right heart failure, and clinical deterioration not matched by the declining lung function. In patient with progressive ILD, RHC is only considered if it affects the future treatment such as lung transplantation or enrollment in clinical trial/registry. The decision to undertake the RHC in progressive ILD was still fraught with doubts. Here we reported a young adult male patient with ILD whom developed progressive signs and symptoms.  By RHC, he had severe precapillary PH with hemodynamic parameters indicated the presence of pulmonary vascular disease. A PH-specific treatment, sildenafil citrate, was administered, and patient responded well and was clinically stable during the addition of sildenafil citrate. This case highlights the clinical implication of performing RHC in progressive ILD, which can change the treatment decision by PH-specific drugs. Therefore, the RHC decision making in patient with progressive ILD need reconsideration.
Acute compartment syndrome of the forearm after trans-radial approach to percutaneous coronary intervention: a case report
Authors: Irsan Istan Irmansyah , Persada Isma Satria Pandu , Alifian Alifian , Sugiarto Muhammad Alwy
Published: May 2023

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) through transradial pathway is associated with lower risk of severe vascular problems comparing to transfemoral. It is reported that the acute compartment syndrome (ACS) in forearm is significant lower comparing to leg. A 47 y.o. male with ACS following a transradial approach of PCI due to inferior myocardial infarction was reported. The patient experienced pain and swelling in his right forearm for 7 hr after the procedure and was later brought to hospital and treated with emergency of fasciotomy. The patient showed good post-fasciotomy recovery on the first 2 wk and showed good DASH score after 4 wk. Quick diagnosis with prompt treatment makes a better outcome for the patient. Consequently, a high level of awareness to make the diagnosis as quickly and accurately management as possible could prevent morbidity caused by late and unrecognized management compartment syndrome eventually could make a better clinical outcome.
Effects of Emotional-Oriented Intervention Urban Forest Healing Program on Emotional Control and Health Promotion Behavior in Middle-Aged Adults
Authors:   The Association of Korea Counseling Psychology Education Welfare, YOON Sun-Hee , YANG Jong-Kuk
Published: May 2023

This study attempted to investigate the effect of Participation in continuous Forest HealingProgram in urban forests on emotional control and health promotion behavior of middle-agedadults. The study was conducted on 57 people, and the experimental group (30 people)conducted actual forest healing activities every session in the forest healing education programfor 12 weeks, and non-experimental group(27 people) who did not participate in the programlived daily life. The contents of the program were meditation walks, five senses utilizationemotional experience, and internal experiences to enhance emotional experiences in the forest. As a result of the study, First, those who participated in the forest healing program showedstatistically significant differences and no difference on control group in the degree of emotionalregulation and health promotion behavior after the program. Second, the experimental groupparticipating in the forest healing program had a significantly higher degree of emotional controlafter the program than the control group, and health promotion behavior was also significantlyhigher. In conclusion, it was found that periodic forest healing activities in urban forests wereeffective in enhancing emotional control and health promotion behavior by providing stableemotional experiences and rest to middle-aged adults.
A Study on Integrated Analysis of the Welfare Policy for the Elderly in Korea
Authors:   The Association of Korea Counseling Psychology Education Welfare, YANG Jung-Ha , HWANG In-Ok
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study is to grasp the problems of welfare policy for the elderly in Koreaand suggest its improving directions through using the analytic framework which modified andsupplemented the existed integrated policy analysis framework of social welfare policy. Withcontents analysis, the problems of target, service areas, delivery system and finance of thewelfare policy for the elderly in Korea have been investigated. And value analysis has beenused in finding out how the contents of the welfare policy for the elderly in Korea fullyensured the right for the elderly. The improving directions of the welfare policy for the elderlyin Korea have been suggested as follows ; expanding the target and unifying the age of theelderly, fulfilling and diversifying services, reconstructing the delivery system, fully securingfinance and strengthening the rights of the elderly.
Injectable and tissue-conformable conductive hydrogel for MRI-compatible brain-interfacing electrodes
Authors: Kim Song Dong , Park Kyuha , Lee Sungjun , Kum Jeungeun , Kim Yewon , An Soojung , Kim Hyungmin , Shin Mikyung , Son Donghee
Published: May 2023

The development of flexible and stretchable materials has led to advances in implantable bio-integrated electronic devices that can sense physiological signals or deliver electrical stimulation to various organs in the human body. Such devices are particularly useful for neural interfacing systems that monitor neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease or epilepsy in real time. However, coupling current brain-interfacing devices with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) remains a practical challenge due to resonance frequency variations from inorganic metal-based devices. Thus, organic conductive materials, such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), have recently been considered as promising candidates. Nonetheless, their conformability on curvilinear tissues remains questionable. In this study, we developed an injectable conductive hydrogel (ICH) composed of tyramine-conjugated hyaluronic acid (HATYR) and PEDOT:PSS for MRI-compatible brain-interfacing electrodes. Our ICH produced low impedance around 5 kΩ even under 10 Hz, demonstrating high confidence volumetric capacitance. Due to HATYR’s biocompatibility, histological and cytotoxicity assays showed almost no inflammation and toxicity, respectively; in addition, ICH was able to degrade into 40% of its original volume within four weeks in vivo. An electrocorticogram (ECoG) array was also patternable by syringe injections of ICH on a stretchable and flexible elastomeric substrate layer that conformed to curvy brain tissues and successfully recorded ECoG signals under light stimulation. Furthermore, MRI imaging of implanted devices did not show any artifacts, indicating the potential of the MRI-compatible hydrogel electrodes for advanced ECoG arrays. This study provides a promising solution for MRI-compatible neural electrodes, enabling the advancement of chronic neural interfacing systems for monitoring neurodegenerative diseases.
Commercially important fish biodiversity of Hail Haor with physicochemical properties and planktonic composition
Authors: Hasan Md. Monjurul , Hasan Pramanik Md. Mehedi , Hoque Md. Mozzammel , Yasmin Rumana , Karim Ehsanul , Rahman Md. Anisur , Mahmud Yahia
Published: May 2023

Hail Haor is one of Bangladesh’s most prominent natural freshwater wetlands, and it is unique in that majority of its catchment is located within the country. This study concentrates on recording the biodiversity of fish species that are commercially significant in the Hail Haor, as well as their current conservation status in Bangladesh and globally. This article also contains research on physicochemical parameters and the planktonic composition of water. The physicochemical parameters of water were determined to be more or less in line with Bangladesh standards, albeit they did vary between study sites. The findings revealed the presence of 41 taxa, 35 of which were Phytoplankton and 6 were Zooplankton. Hail Haor likely contains high nutrient concentrations because there are more phytoplankton species than zooplankton groups. A total of 25 commercially important fish species were determined in seven orders, with five of them being threatened. Of the documented fish species 50% were characterized as carnivores, 42% as omnivores, and 8% as planktivores. A larger proportion of carnivorous fishes suggests a greater biomass of predatory fishes. To enhance Hail Haor management and learn more about the commercially significant fish population, longer-term research is needed.
The Heterogeneous Progressive Multiple Sclerosis Lesion. How Can We Assess and Modify a Degenerating Lesion?
Authors: Ellen Olivia , Ye Sining , Nheu Danica , Dass Mary , Pagnin Maurice , Ozturk Ezgi , Theotokis Paschalis , Grigoriadis Nikolaos , Petratos Steven
Published: May 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a heterogeneous disease of the central nervous system that is governed by neural tissue loss and dystrophy during its progressive phase, with complex reactive pathological cellular changes. The immune-mediated mechanisms that promulgate the demyelinating lesions during the relapses of acute episodes are not characteristic of chronic lesions during progressive MS. This has limited our capacity to target the disease effectively as it evolves within the central nervous system white and gray matter, thereby leaving neurologists without effective options to manage individuals as they transition to a secondary progressive phase. The current review highlights the molecular and cellular sequelae that have been identified to cooperate and/or contribute to neurodegeneration that identifies individuals with progressive forms of MS. We emphasize the need for appropriate monitoring via known and novel molecular and imaging biomarkers that can accurately detect and predict progression for the purposes of newly designed clinical trials that may demonstrate efficacy of neuroprotection and potentially neurorepair. To achieve neurorepair, we focus on the modifications required in the reactive cellular and extracellular milieu, in order to enable endogenous cell growth as well as transplanted cells that can integrate and/or renew the degenerative MS plaque.
Is it Possible to Arbitrarily Slow Down Time in a Limited Volume With an Energy-Impulse Tensor Whose Components Can be Reduced Arbitrarily? Part I:Introduction
Authors: perniciano gianluca
Published: May 2023

A solution is presented that describes a region of space, box or warp bubble, where time gets slowed down by an arbitrary factor, while reducing the components of the energy-impulse tensor by any chosen amount.
Simulation Analysis of Land-Use Spatial Conflict in a Geopark Based on the GMOP-Markov-PLUS Model: A Case Study of Yimengshan Geopark, China
Authors: Mo Junxiong , Sun Piling , Shen Dandan , Li Nan , Zhang Jinye , Wang Kun
Published: May 2023

The foundation for accurately understanding regional land-use structures and pursuing the coordination of human–land relations is the scientific identification and simulation of temporal and spatial evolution patterns of land-use spatial conflict (LUSC). Taking the Yimengshan Geopark (YG) as an example, based on the productional–living–ecological space (PLES) perspective, which constructs a land-use spatial conflict identification and intensity diagnosis model (LUCSII) using the landscape ecology index. We apply geographic information system (GIS) and other methods to achieve the spatial pattern of LUSC over the last 20 years, and we use the GMOP–Markov–PLUS model to simulate the evolution of LUSC in the future under various scenarios. From 2000 to 2020, the LUSC values in the YG were mainly stable and controllable, with mild conflict, while the areas of severe conflict were mainly concentrated in the central urban area of Mengyin County and in low and flat terrain areas such as southern Bailin Town. The LUSC in the YG showed a significant positive spatial correlation, and spatial agglomeration is gradually strengthening. The high–high clusters are found in contiguous areas at the junction of Changlu Town, Gaodu Town, and Mengyin Street, as well as in the southern hilly areas. The low–low clusters were concentrated in Yedian Town, Daigu Town inarea north of the study, and areas surrounding Yunmeng Lake Wetland Park. In the next ten years, the ecological priority scenario (EPD) and sustainable development scenario (ESD) will both be reasonable options for easing and controlling LUSC in YG. Local governments and park management bureaus should determine the three lines and three zones based on the needs of social and economic development, particularly the boundary red line for construction land growth, and plan production and living spaces to alleviate land-use conflicts and stabilize the land-use system. Regional ecological security can be maintained, and future deterioration of the park’s ecological environment avoided, by performing well in terms of ecological isolation.
Potential Utility of a Panel of Four-miRNAs As Biomarkers in the Clinical Management of Obese and Non-obese Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Tesolato Sofía Elena , González-Gamo Daniel , Barabash Ana , Claver Paula , De la Serna Sofía Cristina , Domínguez-Serrano Inmaculada , Dziakova Jana , De Juan Carmen , Torres Antonio José , Iniesta Pilar
Published: May 2023

This work aims to investigate the expression levels of four preselected miRNAs previously linked to Cancer and/or Obesity, with the purpose of finding potential biomarkers in the clinical management of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) developed by obese and non-obese patients. We analyzed samples from a total of 65 subjects, 43 affected by CRC and 22 without cancer. Serum and both subcutaneous and omental adipose tissues (SAT and OAT) were analyzed, as well as tumor and non-tumor colorectal tissues in the case of the CRC patients. The relative expression (2-∆∆Ct) levels of 4 miRNAs (miR-181a-5p, miR-143-3p, miR-132-3p and miR-23a-3p) were measured by RT-qPCR. Serum, SAT and OAT expression levels of these miRNAs showed significant differences between subjects with and without CRC, especially in the group of overweight/obese subjects. In CRC serum levels of miR-181a-5p, miR-143-3p and miR-23a-3p correlated with their levels in both SAT and OAT. Moreover, in the case of miR-181a-5p, these correlations were significantly influenced by the body mass index (BMI). From these data, we can conclude that both adiposity and CRC induce changes in the expression of the miRNAs investigated, demonstrating the potential utility of this panel of miRNAs in the diagnosis and prognosis of CRC patients.
Circulating Flow-Electric Field Configuration Enhanced Cadmium Cementation from Sulfate Systems and its Optimization Mechanism
Authors: Ding Wenjie , Wang Yunyan , Zeng Weizhi , Sun Zhumei
Published: May 2023

In this work, an novel flow-electric field coupling configuration for enhanced Zn-Cd cementation was designed and utilized. A series of tests were conducted to explore the optimization of Zn-Cd cementation process and its mechanism.Firstly, the various characterisations of the cadmium sponge at different locations in the device were compared and it was concluded that the purity of the cadmium sponge was optimal from the anode surface. The generation and stripping of cadmium sponge was revealed for the first time by cross-sectional electron microscopy. The four stages of the apparent reaction in the system were analysed in relation to the pH, cadmium concentration and cadmium sponge flaking at each flow rate. It was proved that the separation of cadmium sponge mainly occurred in the third phase. Secondly, by comparing the morphology and specific surface area of cadmium sheep at different flow rates, the optimum flow field velocity was identified as 30 ml/s. Six flow field configurations were compared and preferred. The results demonstrate that the LCAH modulation results in a more sparse structure of the cadmium sponge, which is more easily exfoliated from the zinc anode surface by fluid impact. This was considered to be the most beneficial flow field configuration for improving the cadmium cementation rate and reducing the cost of the reaction. Further, the reaction steps of the system were analysed. The diffusion process under different flow field configurations was confirmed by calculations to follow first order kinetics. The diffusion coefficient of LACH proved to be the highest in the comparative tests and this result was also supported by the apparent experimental results.
Greenery-Covered Towers: Examining Innovative Design Approaches
Authors: Al-Kodmany Kheir
Published: May 2023

Greenery-covered towers are a new generation of tall buildings characterized by substantial integration of vegetation. They aim to improve the quality of urban life by reducing air pollution, enhancing biodiversity, creating microclimates, and providing aesthetic and psychological benefits. This paper examines the innovative design approaches of greenery-covered towers, drawing on examples from different countries and contexts. It analyzes the technical, environmental, social, and economic aspects of these projects, as well as the challenges and opportunities they pose for the future of sustainable architecture. The paper concludes that greenery-covered towers should be further developed and refined to become a potential solution for addressing dense cities’ environmental and health issues.
Stronger Quantum Speed Limit For Mixed Quantum States
Authors: Bagchi Shrobona , Thakuria Dimpi , Pati Arun Kumar
Published: May 2023

We derive a quantum speed limit for unitary evolution for the case of mixed quantum states using the stronger uncertainty relation for mixed quantum states. This bound can be optimized over different choices of Hermitian operators for a better bound. We illustrate this with some examples and show its better performance with respect to three existing bounds for mixed quantum states.
Pathology: One Score Fits All?
Authors: Villanacci Vincenzo , Del Sordo Rachele , Parigi Tommaso Lorenzo , Leoncini Giuseppe , Bassotti Gabrio
Published: May 2023

Mucosal healing (MH) is the main treatment target in ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, and it is defined by a combination of complete endoscopic and histologic remission. Indeed, the complete resolution of mucosal inflammation should be confirmed at histology. Neutrophil infiltration represents the unique histological marker in discriminating the active vs quiescent phase of disease, also including crypt injuries (cryptitis and crypt abscesses), erosions and ulcerations. Basal plasmacytosis do not qualify by itself the remission in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), but it represents a diagnostic clue, mostly at onset. Several histological scoring systems have been developed to evaluate therapeutic efficacy, even though they often resulted tricky and subjective. Moreover, these scores listed a heterogeneous group of histological features as parameters. The recently proposed simplified histological score on MH was based on neutrophils and their distribution in the gut mucosa was also considered, aiming to provide a simple, time-sparing and reproducible tool to be applied to the routinary diagnostic practice. The artificial intelligence could be a promising tool both in evaluating and standardizing the histological assessment of disease activity in IBD. Moreover, novel molecules involved in the inflammatory dynamics in the gut could be employed in supporting the diagnostic practice in IBD.
Post-Earthquake Damage Identification of Buildings Using Advanced Time-Frequency Methods
Authors: Kumar Roshan , Singh Vikash , Ismail Mohamed
Published: May 2023

The natural frequency of buildings decreases during a strong-motion earthquake, and the structure loses its stiffness. As a result, understanding the damaging process in the structure owing to changes in structural properties is critical during a seismic excitation. The time-frequency technique can detect the damaged building’s time-varying frequency contents. Wigner distributions (WD), Wigner-Ville distributions (WVD), pseudo-Wigner-Ville distributions (PWVD), smoothed pseudo-Wigner-Ville distributions (SPWVD), and synchrosqueezing transforms (SST) have all become popular in recent years for a variety of earthquake engineering applications, including building damage detection. This study proposes the local maximum synchrosqueezing transform (LMSST) for detecting frequency shifts in buildings during strong earthquakes. The data presented in the research show that the suggested method outperforms as compared to the conventional time-frequency methods for detecting frequency shifting in earthquake-damaged structures.
Minimal Access Coronary Revascularization: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Purmessur Rushmi , Ali Jason
Published: May 2023

Minimal access cardiac surgery appears to be the future. It is increasingly desired by cardiologists and demanded by patients who perceive superiority. Minimal access coronary artery revascularisation has been increasingly adopted throughout the world. Here we review the history of minimal access coronary revascularization and see that it is almost as old as the history of cardiac surgery. Modern minimal access coronary revascularization takes a variety of forms – namely minimal access direct coronary artery bypass grafting (MIDCAB), hybrid coronary revascularisation (HCR) and totally Endoscopic Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (TECAB). It is noteworthy that there is significant variation in nomenclature and approaches for minimal access coronary surgery and this truly presents a challenge to comparing the different methods. However, these approaches are increasing in frequency and proponents demonstrate clear advantages for their patients. The challenge that remains, as for all areas of surgery, is demonstrating superiority of these techniques over tried and tested open techniques which is very difficult. There is a paucity of randomized controlled trials to help answer this question, and the future of minimal access coronary revascularisation to some extent is dependent on such trials. Thankfully some are underway and the results eagerly anticipated.
Microglia Mediated Neuroinflammation: A Silent Contributor to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ripa Joja Datta , Roy Ranjan
Published: May 2023

Microglia together with other permanent macrophages in central nervous system (CNS) are responsible for regulating the innate immune response of the brain and spinal cord. Upon activation, microglia triggers the release of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, chemokines, and other proteins related to neuro-inflammation. Elevated levels of neuro-inflammation have been linked to a decline in cognitive performance manifested in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). There are mounting evidence in the literature to suggest that microglia are responsible for a substantial amount of the synaptic damage seen in AD. Most importantly, scientific studies have suggested that overexpression of microglia-derived neuro-inflammation elevates amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque formation, and hyperactivation of tau protein; the two main pathological characteristic features of AD. Alternatively, Aβ and tau formation further activate microglia to sustain the neuro-inflammation triggering a vicious cascade of neurodegeneration in AD. Here in this review, we discussed the role of microglia associated neuroinflammation for the pathogenesis of AD.
Development of an Antiviral Ion-Activated In Situ Gel Containing 18β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid: A Promising Alternative Against Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Authors: Özkan Burcu , Altuntaş Ebru , Ünlü Ümmühan , Doğan Hasan Hüseyin , Özsoy Yıldız , Çakır Koç Rabia
Published: May 2023

The human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) poses a serious risk to global public health and is a significant cause of severe lower respiratory infections. There are currently only a few therapies available to treat RSV infections, as well as no RSV vaccinations. Therefore, there is an urgent demand for clinically feasible, safe, and affordable RSV prevention and treatment alternatives. In this study, an ion-activated in situ gel comprising broad-spectrum antiviral 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) for antiviral action on RSV was developed. In this content, mechanical properties, sprayability, drug content, pH, ex vivo mucoadhesive strength, in vitro drug release pattern, and stability were all examined. Rheological properties were also tested by utilizing in vitro gelation capacity and rheological synergism tests. Finally, the optimized in situ gel's cytotoxic and antiviral activities on RSV cultured in human laryngeal epidermoid carcinoma (HEP-2) cell line were evaluated. In conclusion, the optimized in situ gel prepared with a combination of 0.5%w/w gellan gum and 0.5%w/w sodium carboxymethylcellulose demonstrated good gelation capacity and sprayability (weight deviation between T0 and T14: 0.34%), desired rheological synergism (mucoadhesive force (Fb): 9.53), mechanical characteristics (adhesiveness: 0.300 mJ ± 0.05), ex vivo bioadhesion force (19.67 g ± 1.90), drug content uniformity (RSD%: 0.494), and sustained drug release over period of 168 h (101.57% ± 0.53). The antiviral activity test results showed that the optimized in situ gel had strong anti-HRSV activity (EC50 simultaneous = 0.05 µg/ml, SI = 306; EC50 preinfection = 0.154 µg/ml, SI= 100) which was significantly higher than that of ribavirin (EC50 =4.189 µg/ml; SI= 28) used as a positive control against hRSV. In conclusion, this research has demonstrated the formulation of an effective antiviral nasal spray that has the ability to possess both prophylactic and virucidal activity.
Ferroptosis-Mediated Cell Death Induced by NCX4040, The Non-Steroidal Nitric Oxide Donor, in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells: Implications in Therapy
Authors: Sinha Birandra Kumar , Bortner Carl D , Jatmusch Alan K , Tokar Erik J , Murphey Carri , Wu Xian , Winter Heather , Cannon Ronald E
Published: May 2023

Our recent studies showed that the treatment of human ovarian tumor cells with NCX4040 resulted in significant depletions of cellular glutathione, formation of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species and cell death. NCX4040 is also cytotoxic to several human colorectal cancer cells (CRC) in vitro and in vivo. Here, we have examined ferroptosis-dependent mechanism(s) of cytotoxicity of NCX4040 in HT-29 and K-RAS mutant HCT116 colon cell lines. Ferroptosis is characterized by accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the cell, leading to an iron-dependent oxidative stress-mediated cell death. However, its relevance in the mechanism of NCX4040 cytotoxicity in CRC is not known. We found that NCX4040 generated ROS in CRC cells without any depletion of cellular GSH. Combinations of NCX4040 with erastin (ER) or RSL3 (RAS-selective lethal 3), known inducers of ferroptosis, enhanced CRC death. In contrast, ferrostatin-1, an inhibitor of ferroptosis, significantly inhibited NCX404-induced cell death. Treatment of CRC cells with NCX4040 resulted in induction of lipid peroxidation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. NCX4040 treatment induced several genes related to ferroptosis (e.g., CHAC1, GPX4 and NOX4) in both cell lines. Metabolomic studies also indicated significant increases in both lipid and energy metabolism following the drug treatment in HT-29 and HCT116 cells. These observations strongly suggest that NCX4040 causes ferroptosis-mediated cell death of CRC cells. Furthermore, combinations of NCX4040 and ER or RSL3 may contribute significantly for the treatment of CRC, including those that are difficult to treat due to the presence of Ras mutation in the clinic. NCX4040 induced ferroptosis may also be a dynamic form of cell death for the treatment of other cancers.
Product’s Attribute and Consumer Perception in Purchasing Decision: the Case of Young Adult’s Yoghurt Consumption
Authors: Yudya Saraswati Yasinta , Ummul Muzayyanah Mujtahidah Anggriani , Sulastri Endang
Published: May 2023

This research aims to examine the correlation between the attributes and consumer preference for yoghurt. This survey research uses a purposive sampling technique with the criteria age 15-24 years and experiencing to consume yoghurt. Data collection uses an interview approach with a questionnaire as an instrument. A total 257 young adult were selected for this study. The results revealed that consumer perception on yogurt attributes were in "high" categorized with taste, texture, product information, and bottle packaged were preferred to be chosen. Pearson’s R correlation analysis found that all attributes indicate a perfect positive linear relationship with consumer purchasing decisions on yogurt. The attribute that considers the respondents the most is product's information, and the correlation between the attributes and consumer's purchase intention is strongly positive. Thus, market potential and intention to consume yogurt through increasing the value of product attributes need to be assessed.
Embryo Development and Chick Performance of Local Chicken Following In-Ovo Injection of L-Arginine Into Local Chicken Eggs
Authors: Taufik Muhammad , Sara Urfiana , Yusuf Muhammad , Maruddin Fatma , Azhar Muhammad
Published: May 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of in-ovo injection of L-arginine into local chicken eggs on embryo development and chick performance of local chicken. A total of 160 eggs were incubated using semi-automatic incubator with temperature of 37-38C and relative humidity of 55-65%. The injected L-arginine solution has a concentration of 0.5% (m/v). In treatment was divided into 4 groups, the first treatment was without injection (control), the second treatment was the injection of 0.2 mL L-arginine solution 0.5% (m/v)/egg, the third treatment was the injection of 0.4 mL L-arginine solution. 0.5% (m/v)/egg, and fourth treatment was the injection of L-arginine solution 0.6 mL 0.5%(m/v)/egg. The results showed that embryo mortality and hatchability were lower with L-arginine injection treatment than without injection. All treatments showed no effect on extraembryonic fluid absorption, but there was an increase in embryo weight in the injection treatment 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 mL L-Arginine 0.5% /eggs 2,355 g, 2,577 g, 2,705, respectively. In conclusion, an in-ovo injection of L-arginine in local chicken eggs has a good effect (the beneficial effect) on embryo death and embryo performance. Injection of 0.4 ml L-Arginine 0.5% /eggs improved hatchability and Newly Hatched Chick Weight (NHCW).
Effect of Phyllosilicates As Toxin Binder On Productivity, Intestinal Morphology, and Liver Toxicity in Broiler Fed Afb1 Contaminated Feed
Authors: Prahara Gardika Windar , Humaera Adhe , Yusiati Lies Mira , Hanim Chusnul , Kurniawati Asih , Sumantri Ika , Agus Ali , Kusumawardani Erika , Anas Muhsin Al
Published: May 2023

Aflatoxin B1 is a toxin produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus which reduces the development and function of organs in broilers. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of adding binder toxin from different bentonite to feed contaminated with AFB1 on productivity, intestinal morphology, and liver toxicity in broilers. A total of 60-day old chick male broilers were placed in 12 pens. Each treatment consisted of three replicates, each replicate containing five broilers. Treatment in the study consisted of P0 (control, basal diet, without the addition of AFB1), P1 (P0 + 100 µg/kg AFB1 + 4 g/kg calcium bentonite Type A), P2 (P0 + 100 µg/kg AFB1 + 4 g/kg calcium bentonite Type B), and P3 (P0 + 100 µg/kg AFB1 + 4 g/kg calcium bentonite Type B + kerolite + saponite). Treatment diets were given to broilers from day 22 to 35 (finisher phase). The results showed that the toxin binder on AFB1 contaminated feed had no effect on feed consumption, body weight gain and feed conversion (p>0.05). Addition of toxin binder on AFB1 contaminated feed increased the relative weight of the duodenum (p=0.024), although P3 was not significantly different. Treatments had no effect on villus length, crypt depth, and ratio of villus length to crypt depth (p>0.05), but decreased villus width (p=0.013). The addition of toxin binder tended to decrease the villus area (p=0.055). SGOT and SGPT did not show differences between treatments. AFB1 contamination with the addition of toxin binder showed signs of toxicity on liver histopathological observations. Based on the research, it can be concluded that the addition of binder toxin in feed contaminated with AFB1 can reduce the negative effect on the development of intestinal villus and chemical effect to the liver. Toxin binder Type B has the best efficacy for reduce the negative effect
Economic Sustainability Through Agritourism in Rural Communities: The Case of Native Chicken Beauty Contest in Isabela, Philippines
Authors: C. Liangco Noemi , Khong-Khai Sutthikarn , Leelapattana Winitra , Thongma Weerapon
Published: May 2023

Agritourism is a promising industry in the Philippines. It is one among the backbones of Philippine economy. This study assessed the impact of the native chicken beauty contest as an agritourism initiatives in Isabela, Philippines based on the perceptions of 639 farmers and stakeholders. The participants are coming from different municipalities of the province. Data were gathered through an adapted survey. Findings revealed that the respondents have a positive perception on the impact of the initiatives in the aspect of economy. They believe that the initiative improves their financial status, and that they received strategic and financial support from the government through their political leaders. On the other hand, the participants’ concern was about peoples’ participations to the development and implementation of the initiatives, proper development of community image for branding towards international recognition. Hence, a policy on inter-agency and inter-cultural monitoring board is highly recommended.
Supplementation of Biopeptide from Chicken Feet to the Immune System and Growth of Broiler Chicken
Authors: Hakim Aulia Rizaldi Hafiz , Hartoyo Bambang , Rahayu Sri , Tugiyanti Elly , Munasik Munasik
Published: May 2023

The safety of poultry products, especially broiler chickens, can be stated to be relatively low. Antibiotic growth promoter (AGP) is used to improve chicken performance and maintain immunity. The ban on the use of AGP triggers the innovation of other materials to replace the function of AGP. Biopeptide is a solution that can be used. Biopeptides can be made from materials with a high protein content, for example, waste from chicken slaughterhouses. The waste that can be used is chicken feet, biopeptides produced from hydrolytic proteins have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. These properties can improve the performance and immune system of broiler chickens. The aim of the study was to examine the supplementation of biopeptides from chicken feet on the immune system (total Escherichia coli and internal organ) and the growth of broiler chickens. The research material was 200 day old chickens of broiler strain cobb unsex, which were reared for 42 days of the rearing period. The treatment feeds were P0: basal feed, P1 basal feed + 2% biopeptide, P2: basal feed + 4% biopeptide, P3: basal feed + 6% biopeptide. The collected data were analyzed using analysis of variance with the Tukey test (BNJ). The results showed that biopeptide supplementation from chicken feet had a significant (P<0.05) effect on total Escherichia coli, spleen weight, bursa of Fabricius weight, body weight gain, and feed efficiency for broiler chickens. However, the results of the study had no significant effect (P>0.05) on liver weight and Avian Influenza antibody titers for broiler chickens. Biopeptide supplementation from chicken feet can reduce total Escherichia coli, and spleen weight, and increase the bursa of Fabricius weight, body weight gain, and feed efficiency for broiler chickens. Biopeptide supplementation from chicken feet of 6% gave the best results in body weight gain and feed efficiency.
Geomorphic feature extraction to support the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative’s sediment budget and Geomorphic Vulnerability Index for Lake Michigan
Authors: Sylvester Charlene , Spurgeon Scott , McGill Sean , Dunkin Lauren
Published: May 2023

This Coastal and Hydraulics Engineering technical note (CHETN) details a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) methodology to produce advanced lidar-derived datasets for use in a coastal erosion vulnerability analysis conducted by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and other federal partners for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI).
Finite element and regression analysis for improving Terzaghi’s, Meyerhof’s, Hansen’s and Vesic’s bearing capacity methods for strip foundations
Authors: Pantelidis Lysandros
Published: May 2023

The bearing capacity of shallow foundations is one of the major fields in soil mechanics and foundation engineering. Since 1943, when Terzaghi suggested his famous equation with the three N-factors, several dozens of bearing capacity methods have been proposed in the literature, mainly focusing on better defining the Nγ factor. However, the methods proposed by Terzaghi (T), Meyerhof (M), Hansen (H) and Vesic (V) remain by far the most popular ones, with the last one to be component of many contemporary design codes. In this paper, the author put these four methods into extensive comparison against the finite element method. A common characteristic of the results is the great scatter of values, while none of these methods seems to be superior to the others. The regression analysis carried out by the author, however, clearly showed that it is not Nγ that prevents us from having a reliable analytical prediction for the bearing capacity of footings, but the various depth factors. The analysis shows that all methods can perform great when all three depth factors in the bearing capacity equation are replaced by a unique depth factor (i.e., a depth factor which is the same for all three bearing capacity terms). In this respect, T’s, M’s, H’s and V’s methods were calibrated applying (both linear and non-linear) regression analysis. In addition to this, the author offered corrected expressions for the four methods mentioned above, not only for the case of rigid footings but also for the case of flexible strip footings, as regression analysis was also carried out against the respective finite element results. Finally, it is mentioned that the bearing capacity methods included in EN1997-1:2004, prEN1997-3:2023 (draft standard), API, AASHTO, Geotechnical Engineering Office, Bureau of Indian Standards and FHWA-SA-02-054 design standards have been put into comparison against finite elements.
Eco-anxiety and the influence of climate change on future planning is greater for young US residents with direct exposure to climate impacts
Authors: Vercammen Ans , Wray Britt , Crider Yoshika S. , Belkin Gary , Lawrance Emma
Published: May 2023

Awareness of the threats of climate change is engendering distress in increasingly documented ways, with young people particularly affected. Experiences such as climate distress and eco-anxiety have implications for the health and wellbeing of societies, economies, and for climate action, including mental health, agency to address the crisis, and future planning. While multi-country studies suggest that eco-anxiety and related experiences of distress may vary with context, the hypothesis that exposure to climate-related impacts increases eco-anxiety and associated psychological impacts is underexplored in youth at the individual level. Here we show that in a large sample of US youth (aged 16–24, n = 2834), self-reported direct experience of climate-related events significantly increased eco-anxiety, climate distress and the impact of climate change on future planning, but also psychological adaptation, meaning-focused coping and climate agency. As the climate crisis accelerates and exposure to climate-related hazards increases, these findings have important implications for the mental health of populations, life choices that have socioeconomic impact, and climate behaviours of the growing group of young people experiencing these threats.
Psychometrics and validation of the EQ-5D-5L instrument in individuals with ischemic stroke in Lithuania
Authors: Burkauskas Julius , Podlipskytė Aurelija , Kažukauskienė Nijolė , Mickuvienė Narseta , Taroza Saulius
Published: May 2023

Background
Experiencing a stroke is associated with a deterioration in health-related quality of life (HRQL). One of the generic tools used for HRQL assessment is the EQ-5D-5L instrument, which has not yet been validated in Lithuania. This study aimed to evaluate the EQ-5D-5L instrument validity and reliability in Lithuanian individuals at the end of the first week after experiencing ischemic stroke (IS).
Methods
The study had a cross-sectional design, including 134 individuals (61.9% men and 38.1% women; median age of 66 years, IQR 59–73) in the final analysis. Alongside the EQ-5D-5L, psychological distress was evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment-7; neurological impairment with the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale; and functional independence with the Barthel index.
Results
The internal consistency of the EQ-5D-5L was 0.809. A significant ceiling effect (17.2%) of the descriptive part of the EQ-5D-5L was detected. Convergent validity of EQ-5D-5L descriptive system was confirmed, with significant correlations with the other scales used, except for the visual analogue scale. The two latent factor (“physical” and “emotional”) model was confirmed by confirmatory factory analysis, with acceptable fit [root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.045, RMSEA 90% CI = 0.000–0.145; comparative fit indices = 0.996; non-normal fit index = 0.983; Tucker-Lewis Index = 0.991; χ2/df = 1.27)].
Conclusion
This study provides information on the psychometric peculiarities of the EQ-5D-5L instrument in Lithuanian individuals, showing that the EQ-5D-5L descriptive system is a reliable and valid tool for HRQL assessment. The Lithuanian version of the descriptive part of the EQ-5D-5L is best expressed as a two-factor mix, estimating the physical and emotional dimensions of HRQL in individuals who have experienced IS.
Relation of biology students’ metacognitive monitoring to neural activity during model-based scientific reasoning
Authors: Clark Carrie , Elliott McKenna , Dauer Joseph , Behrendt Mei Grace
Published: May 2023

Metacognitive calibration— the capacity to accurately self-assess one’s performance— forms the basis for error detection and self-monitoring, and a potential catalyst for conceptual change. Limited brain imaging research on authentic learning tasks implicates the lateral prefrontal and anterior cingulate brain regions in expert scientific reasoning. This study aimed to determine how variation in undergraduate life sciences students’ metacognitive calibration relates to their brain activity when evaluating the accuracy of biological models. Fifty undergraduate students enrolled in an introductory life sciences course completed a biology model reasoning task during fMRI. Findings suggest that students with higher metacognitive calibration recruit lateral prefrontal regions linked in prior research to expert STEM reasoning. Findings suggest that metacognition relates to important individual differences in undergraduates’ use of neural resources during an authentic educational task and underscore the importance of fostering metacognitive calibration in the classroom.
Long‑term Continuous-cropping System Altered the Microbial Communities and Nutrient Cycles in Bijie, Guizhou province
Authors: Ding Mengjiao , Shang Nianjie , He Yi , Hu Binbin , Cai Heqing , Dai Bin , Yang Kai , Fan Long , Bin Jun , Huang Ying
Published: May 2023

Understanding the response of microbial communities and their potential functions is essential for the long-term continuous-cropping agroecosystems. However, there are few studies on the interaction between soil physicochemical factors and microbial community dynamics in agroecosystems under long-term continuous-cropping conditions. We investigated the physicochemical properties, metabolites, and microbial diversity of rhizosphere soils in which tobacco was cropped continuously for 0, 5, and 20 years. The results showed that the bacterial diversity significantly increased and then decreased with the duration of continuous-cropping. In addition, the fungal diversity increased significantly, indicating that the change in fungi may shift the nutrient cycles of continuous-cropping karst agroecosystems. In this study, soil pH and the contents of available phosphorus (AP) and available nitrogen (AN) were the key environmental factors leading to changes in the structures and functions of microbial communities in continuous-cropping soil. The metabolites released by tobacco, such as palmitic acid, 3-hydroxypropionic acid, stearic acid, and hippuric acid, reduced soil pH.