bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The genesis of entropy in the conditions of the digital economy and socio-economic relations: globalization challenges and opportunities for sustainable development
Authors: Tepliuk Mariia
Published: November 2024

The article traces the genesis of entropy in the minds of the digital economy and social economic developments, which stems from the rapid digitalization and accelerated globalization of current economic systems. The author has conducted research to highlight how digital transformations bring increased insignificance, creating new challenges for traditional models of management and social interaction. In the article, special attention is paid to the analysis of the legacy of the shift in the level of entropy for social unevenness, cybersecurity, technological accessibility and adaptation of enterprises to new minds in the market, which is We are important in the current information space. The emphasis is on the fact that the growing information and economic entropy is a critical factor that contributes to the ongoing development, which can lead to the destabilization of social and economic structures. The influx of globalization processes on entropy processes in the economies of the countries that are developing, where digital inequality is a factor in the growth of entropy, has been closely observed. Also, the role of government regulation in minimizing the negative legacies of entropy through promoting the policy of digital integration and supporting the development of harmonization of all processes has been analyzed. Opportunities for changing entropy are seen through the use of new innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence, great data and automation, which allow optimizing resource management and reducing the level of insignificance. It is emphasized that the genesis of entropy in the digital economy requires further investigation, from which the economic stability of systems, as well as social harmony and equality have access to resources.
The article also makes recommendations for further direct investigation of entropy in the minds of Swedish digitalization and globalization, which is aimed at developing strategies for managing complexity and insignificance in current social and economic systems.
Small business in structural shifts in Ukrainian economy during 2012-2022 in the context of solving the problems of economic development
Authors: Fedko Ivanna , Samiilenko Andrii
Published: November 2024

The article is devoted to testing the author’s methodology for assessing the contribution of structural changes (distribution of the employees’ total number between large, medium and small enterprises) to the processes of socio-economic development in Ukraine. For this purpose, the general trends in the dynamics of the scale and efficiency of the sector of Ukrainian non-financial enterprises and the specifics of such trends for enterprises with different scales of economic activity are studied for the retrospective period 2012-2022. Due to the fundamental differences in the factors of economic dynamics, the years of relatively stable political and epidemiological situation are studied separately from the years of significant political, military-political and epidemiological disturbances. Using the additive-multiplicative model of the value added, created by Ukrainian enterprises dependence on the number of employees, the proportions of their distribution among large, medium and small enterprises and labor productivity (value added per capita) and the method of sequential substitutions, the author conducts a factor analysis of the dynamics of value added created by Ukrainian enterprises in the retrospective period. Evidence of significant convergence of the economic efficiency level of small and large enterprises during the retrospective period and the leading role of small enterprises in improving the efficiency of economic activity in Ukraine and ensuring the resilience of the economy to negative external and internal disturbances is obtained.
Conceptual foundations for implementing European and international non-financial reporting standards
Authors: Khodzytska Valentyna
Published: November 2024

Throughout the current years, non-financial reporting has undergone rapid development, manifesting both in international frameworks by non-governmental organizations and via national or regional (European) standards. However, internationallystandardised reporting standards play a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency of international capital markets and satisfying users’ needs for data comparability. This article aims to examine the theoretical foundations and principles underlying the implementation of non-financial reporting standards in the EU and at the international level. The study explores the nuances of incorporating sustainable development components into non-financial reporting standards.The significance of materiality is defined for prioritizing information from the financial aspect and ESG concerns. It has been contemplated that the scope of reporting encompasses activities, products, services, and risks extending beyond a company, encouraging the consideration of value creation chains. Emphasis is placed on the potential to present non-financial information at various levels of consolidation, aiming for relevance and compatibility. Types of information subject to disclosure are disclosed.Crucial principles of sustainable reporting are highlighted, considering a focus on essential information and stakeholder orientation.
Global policy priorities are noted to expect business contributions towards achieving sustainable development goals and corporate social responsibility. Standards and frameworks are shown to be pivotal in presenting non-financial information related to sustainable development, facilitating its digitization. It has been accentuated that the assessment of materiality defines the content of non-financial reports, yet challenges arise due to the absence of recommendations and stakeholder perspectives.
Sustainability information should encompass the company’s value creation chain with guidance for priorities and impact assessment to enhance the effectiveness of actions and reporting. General scientific and special methods are used: analysis and synthesis, theoretical-applied analysis of sources, inductive-deductive approach, generalization and abstraction, ascent from the abstract to the concrete. The contribution of business to the global policy of sustainable development and the role of corporate social responsibility are also considered. It is substantiated that the assessment of materiality determines the content of non-financial reports, but challenges arise due to the lack of recommendations and taking into account the perspective of interested parties. The current research stimulates further scientific developments in the field of NFZ.
(Im)politeness Strategies in Workplace Interviews –A Case Study of Characterization in The Pursuit of Happyness
Authors: Tse Sheung Hei
Published: November 2024

The Pursuit of Happyness is a famous movie directed in 2006 about the life struggle of Chris Gardner. This paper would analyse an excerpt of The Pursuit of Happyness to explore how (im)politeness characterizes Chris Gardner with Brown and Levinson’s politeness model and Culpeper’s impoliteness model. The excerpt is the scene when Chris has just left the prison to attend the interview for a broker internship. This paper argues that impoliteness reflects Chris’s underprivileged background while the use of politeness characterizes honesty, respect, confidence, humor, and wit. Despite his inherent rudeness stemming from his attire, his lacklustre educational background, and his limited stock market expertise, Chris managed to project a positive image and win the interviewers over with well-executed politeness strategies. The well execution of politeness strategies allows one to gain favours from people of higher status without compromising one's morality. Although politeness theories are originated for real-life encounter in the Anglo-American world, they also play a vital role in characterisation in western popular culture. This paper aims to complement existing literature on the implementation of (im)politeness theories in digital discourse. Future research can focus on macro-analysis across multiple discourses, cross-cultural differences in characterisation, and discourse analysis with new politeness models.
Instability of revised Korean Developmental Screening Test classification in first year of life
Authors: Jeong Ji Eun , Kim You Min , Lee Na Won , Kim Gyeong Nam , Bae Jisuk , Kim Jin Kyung
Published: November 2024

Background: Early development is characterized by considerable variability.Purpose: This study aimed to examine the stability of developmental classifications using the revised Korean Developmental Screening Test (K-DST) in healthy term infants aged 4–6 and 10–12 months.Methods: Data were obtained from the Korean Children’s Environmental Health Study, a nationwide prospective birth cohort. Sixty-nine healthy term infants (26 boys, 43 girls) underwent serial K-DST assessments at 4–6 and 10–12 months of age, between August 2017 and December 2019Results: At 4–5 months, over 50% of infants were categorized in the ≥-1 standard deviation (SD) group, with the lowest prevalence in the gross motor domain (52.7%). Seven infants (10.1%) scored below -2 SD in at least one domain, most commonly in gross and fine motor domains (7.3%). At 10–12 months, over 70% of infants scored in the ≥-1 SD group, except in the language domain. Six infants (9.5%) scored below -2 SD in at least one domain, (cognition 4.8%, language 3.2%, gross motor 3.2%). Serial follow-up showed significant improvement, with many infants moving to the ≥-1 SD group, particularly in the gross motor domain (33.3%). Of the seven infants scoring below -2 SD at 4–5 months, only two remained in this category at 10–12 months.Conclusion: Infants scoring below -2 SD on the revised K-DST 4–5 months questionnaire, especially in the gross motor domain, should undergo close monitoring and repeated evaluations in the absence of neurological abnormalities or developmental red flags.
‘The Sole True Power’: A Few Questions for Erri De Luca
Authors: De Luca Erri , Hicks Jim
Published: November 2024

De Luca's A Dissenting Word (2015) – his essay-length self-defense against charges brought by the Italian state in response to his statements made in support of the No TAV movement in Italy's Val di Susa – was in part the inspiration for the present collection of essays. The interview that follows focuses on the definition and application of De Luca's concept of ‘contrarian speech’ in light of subsequent events, particularly the rise of a militant Right in Italy and beyond.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Contrarian Speech? The Terrific Murder of (S)Jack the Elephant
Authors: Van Minnen Karen D.
Published: November 2024

This essay explores the concept of ‘contrarianism’ in its polymorphic nature. The figure of the ‘contrarian’ is likened to Janus, simultaneously challenging and benefiting from existing power structures. The essay examines the persistent stigmatization of individuals who learn to live with debilitating somatic illnesses and the discrimination against those with psychogenic bodies, interpreting them as manifestations of contrarianism. It considers how reactions such as culturally inappropriate responses to stressors, socially deviant behaviour and conflicts between individuals and society can be viewed as attempts to challenge prevailing modes of coexistence. Drawing on the works of Roland Barthes and Lauren Berlant, this essay proposes contrarianism as a multifaceted exploration of non-stigmatized ways of leading an ‘idiorhythmic’ life.
‘From Now On’: Concientización, Evidentiary Poems and Readerly Encounters in the Work of Carolyn Forché
Authors: Gräbner Cornelia
Published: November 2024

In this article I draw on Carolyn Forché’s memoir What You Have Heard is True (2019) to elucidate the centrality of Paulo Freire’s concept conscientización to her poetics and to poetry of witness, conceptualized by Forché. Analysing key moments in her memoir and poems from The Country Between Us (1982) through the lens of Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed and his concept of the limit-situation, I show how two ‘modes’ of poetry of witness – the evidentiary poem and the readerly encounter – expose the force of denial through the creation of limit-situations. Denial is a continuous presence for Forché’s implied readers, situated in the Global North. Thus, poetry of witness invites a process of conscientización that can lead to transformative watershed moments for the reader. This shows how poetry of witness acts as a ‘parola contraria’ to denial, and accounts for its profound transformative potential.
From Contrarian to Propositional Speech: The Neue Rechte and Völkische Siedler in Germany
Authors: Retzer Teresa
Published: November 2024

This essay explores how the contemporary German far-right ( Neue Rechte) positions itself as contrarians and cultural/political dissidents. The essay argues that the Neue Rechte is engaging more effectively with the current political and socio-economical situation in Germany than the Alte Rechte (Old Right), and in recruiting members to build up strong national and international networks. We will see how the Neue Rechte (New Right), by positioning themselves as contrarians and dissidents, adapts and appropriates symbols and ideas from a wide range of political groups, including their opponents. Moreover, for the far-right creating new forms of communal life constitutes a form of assertive non-verbal contrarianism.
New Method to compute the Sum of Geometric Series on Fractional Numbers
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: November 2024

Nowadays, the growing complexity of mathematical and computational modelling demands the simplicity of mathematical equations to solve today’s scientific problems and meet challenges. In this paper, the author introduces the sum of geometric series on fractional numbers in a new way. This computational technique can enable the students and scholars to enhance their research knowledge in the domain of computing and mathematical sciences.
Performance of some botanical pesticides against brinjal shoot and fruit borer (Leucinodes orbonalis G.) on brinjal
Authors: Tayyab Hamad , Ali Bukhari Syed Shehzad , Mohamed Hend Omar , Soomro Din Muhammad , Randhawa Noman Khalid , Adeel Muhammad , Rashdi Syed Muzafar Ali Shah , Rustamani Abdullah
Published: November 2024

The shoot and fruit borer (Leucinodes orbonalis G.) is one of the major insect pests of the brinjal crop. Presently, farmers use synthetic insecticides to control this pest, which can cause health and environmental problems. Therefore, the goal of this study was to determine the performance of various botanical pesticides (neem, eucalyptus, karanj, and mahogany oils at 1%) against L. orbonalis under field conditions during 2023, after the 1st and 2nd sprays at 1, 3, and 7 days post-application. The results showed that all botanical pesticides were effective in reducing the shoot and fruit damage percentages after the 1st and 2nd sprays at all intervals compared to the control, with neem oil being the most effective in reducing the shoot and fruit damage percentages of L. orbonalis. The lowest shoot and fruit damage percentages were observed after the 1st and 2nd sprays at the 7-day interval with neem oil: shoot damage percentages were 12.5% and 9.8%, and fruit damage percentages were 22.2% and 12.4%, respectively. Similarly, the highest yield was obtained (13,013 kg/ha) when the crop was treated with neem oil, followed by eucalyptus, karanj, and mahogany oils at 1% with yields of 11,307, 10,499, and 9,947 kg/ha, respectively, whereas the minimum yield of 5,603 kg/ha of fruits was obtained in the control. Therefore, based on the present results, all botanical pesticides are highly recommended, with Neem oil being the most effective against the shoot and fruit borer.
Assessing the efficacy of novel systemic insecticides on rice stem borers and their impact on beneficial insect fauna survival
Authors: Ayub Muhammad Ahsin , Atta Bilal , Gogi Muhammad Dildar , Sabir Arshed Makhdoom , Nisar Muhammad Junaid , Ijaz Muhammad , Akhtar Muhammad Faheem , Maan Naeem Arshad , Anwar Muhammad Rizwan
Published: November 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a staple food crop worldwide, but its production is threatened by pests like rice stem borers. Effective pest management strategies are crucial for ensuring high yields and food security. In this study, the effectiveness of various insecticides was evaluated against rice stem borers while considering their impact on the survival of beneficial insect fauna. Five treatments were tested: chlorantraniliprole, chlorantraniliprole + thiamethoxam, fipronil, flubendiamide, and a control group. The efficacy of each treatment was assessed by measuring pre- and post-treatment infestation levels of deadhearts and whiteheads, along with the survival percentage of beneficial insect fauna after one week. Chlorantraniliprole exhibited the highest effectiveness, with post-treatment percent infestation of deadhearts reduced to 2.10% after 72 hours and 1.24% after one week, and an effectiveness rate of 82.53% after 72 hours and 91.17% after one week. Chlorantraniliprole + thiamethoxam showed similar efficacy, with post-treatment percent infestation of deadhearts at 1.00% after 72 hours and 0.67% after one week, and an effectiveness rate of 91.71% after 72 hours and 95.18% after one week. Fipronil and flubendiamide also demonstrated significant effectiveness, albeit slightly lower than chlorantraniliprole-based treatments. The control group exhibited high post-treatment infestation levels and no effectiveness against deadhearts or whiteheads. However, the survival percentage of beneficial insect fauna was remarkably high in the control group. These findings highlight the potential of chlorantraniliprole and its combination with thiamethoxam as effective pest management options for rice cultivation, while emphasizing the importance of integrated approaches to minimize environmental impact. Further research is warranted to validate these results under diverse field conditions and optimize insecticide application protocols for sustainable rice production.
Appraisement of chemotherapy, plant defense activators, and genetic resistance against eyespot disease in sugarcane
Authors: Yaqoob Fahad , Atiq Muhammad , Rajput Nasir Ahmed , Nawaz Ahmad , Kashif Muhammad , Matloob Muhammad Jahanzaib , Jabbar Abdul , -ud-Din Wasi , Ali Farhan , Ullah Asad
Published: November 2024

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) is a crucial agro-industrial crop that faces numerous biotic and abiotic challenges. One of the most severe biotic stresses affecting sugarcane is eyespot disease, caused by Bipolaris sacchari. This study focused on managing eyespot disease using resistant varieties, chemicals, and plant defense activators. Disease samples were collected from Lalian, Chiniot, and Faisalabad, and the pathogen was isolated and identified from the infected leaves. In the screening experiment, 10 sugarcane varieties were evaluated. CPF-246 exhibited high resistance, while CPF-247 and CPF-77400 showed resistance to eyespot disease. The poisoned food technique was used to assess fungicides at different concentrations (50, 100, and 150 ppm) under in vitro conditions. Tilt (Propiconazole) exhibited the maximum growth inhibition (4.645 mm) under these conditions. Plant activators were tested at different concentrations (0.25%, 0.5%, and 0.75%) in greenhouse conditions. Salicylic acid resulted in the minimum disease incidence (13.236%, 7.483%, and 6.473%) after 15, 30, and 45 days, respectively. Under field conditions, the combination of Salicylic acid and Tilt (12.395%) showed the lowest disease incidence. By employing these newly investigated management strategies, the farming community can effectively combat the significant threat posed by eyespot disease to the sugarcane industry.
Assessing potato cultivars for resistance against late blight under high altitudinal conditions of North Western Himalayas
Authors: Dar Waseem Ali , Bhat Bilal Ahmad , Magray Mohammad Mudasir , Bhat Farooq Ahmad , Mir Reyaz Ul , Khan Mohammad Anwar , Parry Feroz Ahmad , Zargar Sajad Majeed
Published: November 2024

Different stages in plant development significantly influence the incidence of potato late blight disease in India. In the present study, the disease progression was monitored weekly in five selected potato cultivars viz. Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Giriraj, Gulmarg Special, Shalimar Potato-I, and Gurez local, during the 2018 and 2019 cropping seasons. The severity of potato late blight, caused by Phytophthora infestans, increased with fluctuations in weather variables. Calculations for the area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) and the rate of disease spread (r-value) at different growth stages of potatoes were used to track disease progression. Notably, the Kufri Jyoti cultivar demonstrated resistance compared to the other cultivars, with lower severity values and susceptibility scale values (48.40%; 5.6 and 4.9) in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The average rate of disease progress was also lower in Kufri Jyoti (0.064 and 0.060) compared to the local cultivar (0.076 and 0.074) in 2018 and 2019, respectively. These observations indicate that weather parameters have a strong positive impact on the incidence of potato late blight.
Evaluation of rhizospheric Pseudomonas spp. for the management of Fusarium wilt of tomato in Cholistan, Pakistan
Authors: Hassan Ahmad , Abbas Haider , Abbasi Waleed Mumtaz , Rahman Mohammad Shafiq u , Akram Waqar , Rafiq Faheem , Murad Muhammad Tahir
Published: November 2024

Agriculture plays a crucial role in national development, food security, and poverty reduction. Despite its importance, the agricultural sector's contribution to GDP is gradually decreasing. Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici, has significantly hindered tomato production globally. Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.), a widely grown vegetable, is threatened by various pathogens, with Fusarium wilt being particularly damaging due to yield and quality loss. Synthetic chemicals are commonly used to control Fusarium wilt in tomatoes, but these chemicals are harmful to the environment and human health due to their toxicity and persistence. This has prompted researchers to develop eco-friendly alternatives. In preliminary tests, 10 isolates of Pseudomonas spp. were evaluated in vitro against Fusarium oxysporum. Four isolates that effectively inhibited the growth of F. oxysporum were chosen for further experimentation. A greenhouse study revealed that two bacterial isolates, IUB310 and Mad1230, significantly reduced disease severity by 69.2% and 65%, respectively. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria from the Pseudomonas family not only combat pathogens but also induce systemic resistance in plants by strengthening cell walls and triggering defensive proteins and compounds. The results clearly highlight the significance of Pseudomonas strains in suppressing F. oxysporum and promoting plant growth, indicating their potential use in managing Fusarium wilt in tomato cultivation.
Evaluation of biologically synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles from Paecilomyces farinosus on the biology of sawtoothed grain beetle (Oryzaephilus surinamensis)
Authors: Hasan Tabark Ali , Mahmood Emad Ahmad
Published: November 2024

The sawtoothed grain beetle, Oryzaephilus surinamensis, is a major pest of stored grains such as rice, wheat, barley, and legumes. This insect is highly adaptable and poses a persistent threat in diverse climatic conditions and storage environments. The present study aimed to determine the effect of the fungus Paecilomyces farinosus on the life stages (eggs, second and fourth instar larvae, and 24-hour-old pupae) of O. surinamensis. The fungus was tested at spore densities of 3×10⁷, 3×10⁵, and 3×10³ spores/ml. The results showed that the highest mortality rates for eggs, second instar larvae, fourth instar larvae, and 24-hour-old pupae at a concentration of 3×10⁷ spores/ml were 40.3%, 58.7%, 39.01%, and 55.6%, respectively. Furthermore, the study evaluated the impact of nano-zinc oxide (ZnONPs) on O. surinamensis at concentrations of 3000, 2000, and 1000 ppm. Various characteristics of the prepared ZnONPs, such as shape, size, and maximum absorption by ultraviolet spectroscopy, were analyzed. The results indicated 100% mortality of eggs treated with concentrations of 3000 ppm and 2000 ppm. The highest mortality rates for second instar larvae and 24-hour-old pupae were 80% and 20%, respectively, at a concentration of 2000 ppm. For fourth instar larvae, the highest mortality rate was 68.22% at a concentration of 3000 ppm. The study demonstrated that ZnONPs at all tested concentrations were more effective than the fungal suspension in causing mortality of eggs and second and fourth instar larvae. Moreover, the germination rate of rice grains treated with direct spraying was not affected by any of the treatments.
Screening of potato germplasm for resistance to potato virus y and potato leafroll virus using DAS-ELISA
Authors: Nigar Qandeela , Raza Ahmed , Majid Abdul , Umar Muhammad , Naz Raja Mohib Moazzam , Hanif Muhammad , Dogar Waqas Ahmad , Bukhari Tazien , Amir Syeda Sana , Zakria Muhammad , Farooq Asad
Published: November 2024

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) ranks as the fourth most important staple food globally, after rice, wheat, and maize. In Pakistan, Potato virus Y (PVY) and Potato leafroll virus (PLRV) are among the most critical pathogens affecting potato crops, causing yield losses of up to 90%. Fifteen advanced potato lines from the Potato Program of the Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) were screened for resistance to these economically significant viruses. The experiment was conducted in the glasshouse of the Crop Diseases Research Institute, NARC, Islamabad, during 2023-24, following a completely randomized design with three replications per clone. For screening, small tubers of fifteen potato clones, including one check variety, were planted in pots within the glasshouse. PVY was mechanically transmitted, while a chip graft inoculation assay was used for screening against PLRV. Symptoms began to appear two weeks after inoculation, and data were recorded four weeks post-inoculation. A double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) was performed on all plants to confirm the presence of both viruses serologically. The findings revealed that the line HRI-P1 remained asymptomatic and was categorized as highly resistant to both viruses, based on symptom observation and ELISA testing. Six clones exhibited varying levels of resistance, three showed moderate susceptibility, one was susceptible, and three were highly susceptible to PVY. The study highlights the availability of valuable sources of resistance within the Potato Program. HRI, NARC, which could be utilized in breeding potential future varieties. The disease-resistant genotypes identified will be instrumental in future potato breeding programs.
Floristic composition and phenology of vegetation in district Dir Lower, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Subhan Ghani , Ullah Shakir , Ali Shahab , Zainab Rafia , Sohail Mohammad , Shakir Lubna , Khan Izhar , Ali Mansoor , Ali Sajid , Khan Hasnain , Khan Wardah Hayat , Ullah Izhar
Published: November 2024

The present study explores the floristic composition and phenology of vegetation in district Dir Lower, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This district features diverse biological and climatic conditions, creating a unique environment for ecological studies. The research was conducted from May to November in 2018 and 2019, documenting 206 plant species across 182 genera and 82 families. The dominant families were Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, and Poaceae. Using Raunkaier’s life form classification, the study found a dominance of therophytes (41%) and nanophanerophytes (13%), indicating the local ecosystem’s adaptation to annual climatic changes. In terms of leaf size spectrum, microphylls were the most abundant (39%), followed by mesophylls (27%) and Nanophylls (22%). The distribution of plant species in the research area reflects the adaptation of the local flora to specific environmental conditions. Phenological observations revealed two distinct flowering seasons: the primary season from May to August and the secondary season from September to November. During the first season, the majority of plants (85%), predominantly herbs, were in bloom. In contrast, the second season showed a smaller diversity of blooming plants, including six fern species. Fruiting patterns mirrored the flowering trends, with a higher fruiting rate observed from May to August (106 species) compared to September to November (100 species). This research provides a comprehensive overview of the floristic diversity, biological spectrum, and phenological patterns in district Dir Lower, contributing valuable information to plant ecology and conservation in the region.
Biocidal function of Trichoderma-derived secondary metabolites against Fusarium wilt of pea
Authors: Hasnain Abuzar , Atiq Muhammad , Rajput Nasir Ahmed , Nawaz Ahmad , Ahmad Waqas , Akhtar Mouzzama , Adil Zoha , Waseem Aisha , Ijaz Aniqa , Ullah Asad
Published: November 2024

The current research investigates the potential of secondary metabolites extracted from Trichoderma species for managing Fusarium wilt in pea plants. Crude extracts of secondary metabolites from T. viride and T. harzianum were obtained using ethyl acetate and methanol through solvent extraction methods and evaluated for their antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. pisi under various experimental conditions. In vitro assays were performed using the poisoned food technique on potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium, employing Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three concentrations of secondary metabolites (250 ppm, 350 ppm, and 500 ppm). Greenhouse experiments were also conducted in a CRD setup, where pea plants were inoculated with a spore suspension (1×10⁶ spores/ml) of the pathogen and treated with different concentrations of metabolites through soil drenching. For field trials, a Randomized Complete Block Design was utilized to evaluate the most effective concentration (500 ppm) of metabolites, applied via hand sprayer and soil drenching. Results showed that the combination of T. viride and T. harzianum metabolites significantly reduced mycelial growth (10.11 mm) under laboratory conditions and decreased disease incidence to 27.08% in greenhouse trials and 28.15% in field trials. These findings highlight the potential of Trichoderma-derived secondary metabolites as a sustainable approach for managing Fusarium wilt in pea plants, offering promising prospects for integrated disease management strategies.
Impact of Ethanolic Spice Extracts and Sodium Benzoate on the Physicochemical Properties and Health-Related Quality of Watermelon Juice
Authors: Esrafil Md. , Dina Pratima Roy , Pondit Nishita , Akter Eity , Trisha Maymuna Faruk , Khatun Mahmuda , Akter Nargis , Alim Md. Abdul , Nishi Syeda Huraiya Hasan , Zubair Md. Abu
Published: November 2024

Background: Watermelon juice is a refreshing drink to quench the extreme tropical heat thirst. Packed with simple carbs, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, it boosts immunity and aids in the body's recovery from dehydration. Moreover, it’s a delicious and filling drink. A study was carried out to investigate the effects of ethanolic extracts on watermelon juices. Methods: Physicochemical changes such as total soluble solid, vitamin C, acidity, pH, non-enzymatic browning reaction, sensory evaluation, and total viable count were measured at 7-day intervals over 28 days. Results: The findings showed that clove and sodium benzoate had a greater effect on unpasteurized juice than black pepper and sodium benzoate on pasteurized juice. Clove and sodium benzoate outperformed the others in unpasteurized juice. For unpasteurized and pasteurized juice, black pepper and sodium benzoate showed greater results than others. Besides, sodium benzoate (3.10×102, 1.2×102, 0×102, and 1.0×102) and cinnamon (4.0×102, 2.2×102, 3.0×102 and 2.0×102) presented better antimicrobial activity than others for unpasteurized juice. Sodium benzoate (3.0×102, 1.10×102, 0×102, and 2.0×102) and black pepper (1.20×102, 2.1×102, 2.0×102, and 1.10×102) displayed better antimicrobial activity than others for pasteurized juice. For both unpasteurized and pasteurized juice, cinnamon and sodium benzoate were comparatively more popular than others. Conclusions: Based on the findings, these extracts could be employed as natural antimicrobial preservatives instead of artificial preservatives in watermelon juice to increase its shelf life.
The Impact of Prior Related Behavior on Stunting Incidents Abang I Health Center, Karangasem District, Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Wulandari Kadek Dina , Gama I Ketut , Achjar Komang Ayu Henny , Suardana I Wayan , Ngurah I Gusti Ketut Gede , Sudiantara Ketut
Published: November 2024

Background: Stunting is growth failure in children under 5 years due to chronic malnutrition, often occurring during the first 1000 days of life. Maternal behavior during pregnancy has a major impact on fetal development and the possibility of stunting. This study aims to analyze the relationship between prior related behavior, such as blood increasing tablets consumption, antenatal care checks, and animal protein consumption, with the incidence of stunting in the Abang I Community Health Center Work Area, Karangasem Regency. Methods: Using non-probability sampling technique with Purposive sampling, with a total of 70 respondents from a total population of 230 people who met the inclusion criteria, namely mothers aged 15-45 years, mothers who had stunted toddlers and were registered in the Abang I Community Health Center Working Area. Results: Based on non-probability statistical tests. Spearman Rank parametric, found a significant p-value for blood increasing tablets consumption behavior (p=0.002), Antenatal care examination (p=0.004), and animal protein consumption (p=0.002), showing a value <0.05 which means there is a relationship with stunting incident. The majority of respondents showed bad behavior in these three areas, namely consump blood increasing tabletstion behavior 55.7%, antenatal care examination 55.7% and animal protein consumption 52.9%. It is hoped that health workers at the Community Health Center will follow up with pregnant women and teenage girls in coordination with the village or Community Health Center for education about the importance of blood increasing tablets, antenatal care examinations, and animal protein intake to prevent stunting in toddlers. Conclusion: There is a relationship between maternal behavior in consuming blood supplement tablets, antenatal care and animal protein consumption with the incidence of stunting in the working area of Puskesmas Abang I, Karangasem district, Bali, Indonesia.
Assessing the predictive potential of ADAM8 for disease control in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Liu Peiqiang , Liu Meng , Sun Yibin , Lei Weiwei , Xu Yu
Published: November 2024

Background

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase 8 (ADAM8) has been implicated in eosinophilic inflammation; however, its role in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) remains to be elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the predictive significance of ADAM8 levels in nasal secretions for the endotypes and disease control status of CRSwNP.

Methods

A cohort comprising 120 CRSwNP patients and 45 healthy controls (HCs) was assembled, delineating 53 non-eosinophilic CRSwNP (neCRSwNP) and 67 eosinophilic CRSwNP (eCRSwNP) patients. Immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were utilized to measure ADAM8 levels in nasal mucosal tissues and secretions from all participants. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and Pearson correlation analysis were employed to assess the predictive capability of ADAM8 levels in predictiving CRSwNP endotypes and disease control status.

Results

ADAM8 levels in nasal secretions were elevated in CRSwNP patients compared to HCs, with a more pronounced increase observed in eCRSwNP patients. Elevated ADAM8 concentrations in nasal secretions were positively correlated with peripheral blood eosinophil counts and percentages, tissue eosinophil counts, serum total IgE, Lund–Mackay scores, and Lund-Kennedy scores. Ultimately, 103 CRSwNP patients completed the follow-up protocol, with 72 classified as the controlled group and 31 as the uncontrolled group. Uncontrolled CRSwNP patients exhibited significantly higher ADAM8 levels in nasal secretions compared to the controlled group. The ROC curves indicated that ADAM8 in nasal secretions exhibits robust discriminatory capacity for eCRSwNP and postoperative disease control status.

Conclusion

ADAM8 in nasal secretions emerges as a potential novel biomarker for the prognostication of CRSwNP endotypes and the postoperative disease control status.
“Pageantry of aggression”: QAnon, animality, and the violent pursuit of whiteness
Authors: Corman Lauren
Published: November 2024

While the specifics of the far-right COVID-denying QAnon movement may remain cloudy within popular consciousness, in contrast, many can easily conjure the image of Jacob Chansley, the so-called “QAnon Shaman,” when evoking the January 6th US Capitol riot. Chansley, face-painted in the American flag and draped in faux regalia—a virtual menagerie of animals: coyote, buffalo, and eagle—appears clearly, spear in hand, as if parting the fog of war. Photos of Chansley howling or brazenly posing on the Senate dais are indelibly sketched into our collective memory. Some may conjure him simply as a buffoon, but his trespassing and seditious antics are interwoven with a costume that pulls at the long thread of European and American colonialism. This article posits that Chansley’s animalized insurrectionist attire and his ability to play at the borderlands between human and animal, civilized and uncivilized, was an enactment of white supremacy. Insulated by conjoined racist and speciesist legacies, his ensemble placed him closer not only to Western constructions of nature, but also to animality, all without threatening his human status. Working at the intersections of critical race theory and critical animal studies, and illustrated with mainstream news accounts, this article considers broader cultural contexts that reveal Chansley’s sartorial representation as anything but benign.
Tissue adaptation to metabolic stress: insights from SUMOylation
Authors: Xie Hao , Liu Xin , Li Shuo , Wang Ming , Li Ying , Chen Ting , Li Linwei , Wang Faxi , Xiao Xuan
Published: November 2024

Post-translational modification (PTM) plays a crucial role in adaptation of mammals to environmental changes, enabling them to survive in stressful situations. One such PTM is SUMO modification, which is evolutionarily conserved. It involves the covalent and reversible attachment of a small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) to lysine (Lys) residues in the target protein. SUMOylation regulates various functions, including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, senescence, and maintenance of specific cellular activities. It achieves this by influencing protein-protein interactions, subcellular localization, protein stability, and DNA binding activity. Mounting evidence suggests that SUMOylation is implicated in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders such as obesity, insulin resistance, and fatty liver. This review aims to provide an overview of the role of SUMOylation in regulating tissue adaptation to metabolic stress. Recent advancements in spectroscopic techniques have shed light on potential targets of SUMOylation and the underlying regulatory mechanisms have been elucidated, laying the theoretical foundation for the development of targeted SUMOylation interventions for metabolic syndrome while minimizing side effects.
Triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio is associated with diabetes incidence in non-obese individuals with normoglycemia: a retrospective cohort study based on individuals from East Asia
Authors: Huang Zhenhua , Zhang Xigang , Sun Dayong , Yu Ke
Published: November 2024

Background

Although several studies have explored the association between the triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (TG/HDL-c) and diabetes risk, most of these studies are cross-sectional and typically involve small sample sizes, limiting the ability to draw causal inferences. Additionally, there is currently a few studies specifically focusing on non-obese individuals. Consequently, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to investigate the impact of TG/HDL-c on the risk of developing diabetes among non-obese, normoglycemic individuals across East Asian countries.

Methods

This secondary retrospective cohort study recruited 85,029 non-obese individuals with normal glycemic levels from East Asian countries (China and Japan). We employed Cox proportional hazards regression models, incorporating cubic splines function for smooth curve fitting and using two-piecewise Cox regression for threshold effect analysis, to evaluate the nonlinear associations between baseline TG/HDL-c ratios and diabetes risk in non-obese individuals with normoglycemia. In addition, A range of subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to confirm the robustness of our results.

Results

Among the individuals included, the average age was 42.14 ± 11.88 years, and 37,944 participants (44.62%) were male. After adjusting for covariates, the study revealed a significant correlation between the TG/HDL-c ratio and the risk of diabetes among non-obese individuals (HR=1.37, 95%CI: 1.22-1.54). Furthermore, a non-linear correlation was observed between the TG/HDL-c ratios and the incidence of non-obese diabetes, with an inflection point of 1.36. Under this threshold, the TG/HDL-c ratio notably boosts diabetes risk in non-obese populations, with an HR of 2.38 (95% CI: 1.57-3.59). Conversely, beyond the critical juncture, the upsurge in diabetes risk seems to level off, displaying no significant variation, with an HR of 1.18 (95% CI: 0.98-1.41).

Conclusions

This study reveals a non-linear association between the TG/HDL-c ratios and the likelihood of diabetes in non-obese individuals from East Asia. Maintaining a ratio of TG/HDL-C below 1.36 significantly reduces diabetes risk. However, once the ratio of TG/HDL-C exceeds 1.36, reducing it does not substantially lower diabetes onset risk.
Potential effects of peripheral neuropathy on brain function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhang Dongsheng , Huang Yang , Zhang Xiaoling , Liu Wanting , Guan Yitong , Gao Jie , Lei Xiaoyan , Tang Min , Ai Kai , Yan Xuejiao
Published: November 2024

Background

The mechanisms associated between diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and various brain function abnormalities in patients remains unclear. This study attempted to indirectly evaluate the effect of DPN on brain function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by characterizing the resting-state functional connectivity (FC) of the lower limb sensorimotor cortex (LSM).

Methods

Forty-four T2DM patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), 39 T2DM patients without diabetic peripheral neuropathy (ND), and 43 healthy controls (HCs) underwent a neuropsychological assessment and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging examinations to examine the differences in FC between the LSM and the whole brain. The relationships of FC with clinical/cognitive variables were examined.

Results

In comparison with the HCs group, the ND group showed reduced FC of the LSM with the right lateral occipitotemporal cortex (LOTC) and increased FC with the medial superior frontal gyrus (SFGmed), while the DPN group showed reduced FC of the LSM with the right cerebellar lobule VI, the right LOTC, the rostral prefrontal cortex (rPFC), and the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACC). Moreover, in comparison with the ND group, the DPN group showed reduced FC of the LSM with the ACC, SFGmed, and rPFC. In the DPN group, the FC between the LSM and right cerebellar lobule VI was significantly correlated with fasting blood glucose levels (r = -0.490, p = 0.001), and that between the LSM and ACC was significantly correlated with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment score (r = 0.479, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with T2DM may show abnormal motion-related visual perceptual function before the appearance of DPN. Importantly, DPN can influence the brain regions that maintain motion and motor control, and this effect is not limited to motor function, which may be the central neuropathological basis for diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Reduced expression of FOXE1 in differentiated thyroid cancer, the contribution of CPG methylation, and their clinical relevance
Authors: De Lima Erika Urbano , Dos Santos Filipe Ferreira , Da Silva Igor Campos , De Lima Cláudio Rogério Alves , Frutuoso Vitoria Sousa , Caso Gustavo Felisola , De Oliveira Paloma Ramos , Bezerra Ana Karina , Cerutti Janete Maria , Tamura Rodrigo Esaki , Ramos Helton Estrela , Rubio Ileana Gabriela Sanchez de
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Forkhead box E1 (FOXE1) is a transcription factor with a crucial role in thyroid morphogenesis and differentiation. Promoter hypermethylation downregulates FOXE1 expression in different tumor types; nevertheless, its expression and relationship with methylation status in differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) remain unclear.

Methods

A total of 33 pairs of matched samples of PTC tumors and non-tumors were included. Tumor cell cultures were treated with either 5-Aza-2′-deoxycytidine demethylating agent or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). A real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting were performed to assess FOXE1 expression. The methylation status was quantified using bisulfite sequencing. A luciferase gene assay was used to determine CpG-island functionality. Gene expression and promoter methylation of FOXE1 and FOXE1-regulated genes were also analyzed with data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) thyroid samples.

Results

After demethylating treatment, increased FOXE1 mRNA was observed concomitantly with reduced promoter methylation of CpGisland2. A negative correlation between mRNA downregulation and an increased methylation level of CpGisland2 was observed in tumors. Diminished protein expression was also detected in some DTC cell lines and in some tumor samples, suggesting the involvement of post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. CPGisland2 was proved to be an enhancer. TCGA data analysis showed low FOXE1 mRNA expression in tumors with a negative correlation with methylation status and a positive correlation with the expression of most of its target genes. Reduced FOXE1 expression, accompanied by a high methylation level, was associated with PTC aggressiveness (tall cell variant, advanced extra thyroid extension, T4 American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) classification), age at diagnosis (over 45 years old), and presence of a BRAFV600E mutation.

Conclusion

FOXE1 mRNA was downregulated in DTC compared with non-tumors, followed by high CpGisland methylation. A coupling of low mRNA expression and high methylation status was related to characteristics of aggressiveness in DTC tumors.
Progress in gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy
Authors: Cheng Xianbin , Ding Xiangfu , Wang Sijia , Li Siyu , Zhang Hong
Published: November 2024

Gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy obviates the necessity for carbon dioxide insufflation to establish a surgical workspace, thus mitigating the potential complications associated with this practice. This technique presents several benefits, such as the maintenance of neck functionality, minimal scarring, and enhanced visibility of the surgical field, which contribute to its extensive adoption in clinical settings. The objective of this study is to synthesize the current methodologies of gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy and to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages inherent to each technique. It aims to offer theoretical insights to assist surgeons in determining the most suitable approach for gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy in their clinical practice.