bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Flow in Nerve and Mitochondria
Authors: Eisenberg Robert
Published: October 2024

Electrodynamics of current provide much of our technology, from telegraphs to the wired infrastructure powering the circuits of our electronic technology. Current flow is analyzed by its own rules. It cannot be analyzed one charge at a time. There are too many charges. Current flow is essential in biology. Currents are carried by electrons in mitochondria in an electron transport chain. Currents are carried by ions in nerve and muscle cells. Currents everywhere follow the rules of current flow: Kirchhoff’s current law and its generalizations. The role of electrons in generating ATP was discovered long ago. The flow of protons that generate ATP in ATPsynthase has been determined. The flow of protons and transport of electrons form circuits that should be analyzed by Kirchhoff’s law. Circuit analysis is easily applied to short systems like mitochondria that have just one internal electrical potential in the form of the Hodgkin Huxley Katz HHK equation. The HHK equation combined with classical descriptions of chemical reactions forms a computable model of cytochrome c oxidase, part of the electron transport chain. Current laws are now needed to analyze the flow of electrons and protons, as they generate ATP in mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Psychological Distress Is Prevalent and Interdependent Among Patients With Decompensated Cirrhosis and Their Caregivers
Authors: Ufere Nneka N. , Zeng Chengbo , Donlan John , Shalev Daniel , Kaplan Alyson , Noll Alan , Liu Annie , Pintro Kedie , Horick Nora , Indriolo Teresa , Li Lucinda , Zhu Enya , Armstrong Malia E. , Mason Nancy , Engel Kirsten G. , Rowland Michaela , O'Brien Karen , Kenimer Sara , Diop Michelle S. , Jackson Vicki , Lai Jennifer C. , Chung Raymond T. , Jacobs Jamie M. , Edelen Maria O. , El-Jawahri Areej
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Little is known about the interdependence of psychological distress among patients with decompensated cirrhosis and their caregivers.

METHODS:

In this cross-sectional study, we examined the interdependence of psychological distress (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) among 127 patient-caregiver dyads using Actor-Partner Interdependence Modeling.

RESULTS:

Among dyads, 26% had both partners reporting clinically significant anxiety and 18% reporting clinically significant depression. Caregiver anxiety significantly predicted patient depression (standardized β = 0.18, P = 0.03).

DISCUSSION:

Psychological distress was prevalent and interdependent among dyads. These results underscore the need to develop interventions to reduce psychological distress in both patients with decompensated cirrhosis and their caregivers.
Hepatic Steatosis Estimated by VCTE-Derived CAP Scores Was Associated With Lower Risks of Liver-Related Events and All-Cause Mortality in Patients With Chronic Liver Diseases
Authors: Kim Nicole J. , Vutien Philip , Borgerding Joleen A. , Beste Lauren A. , Li Muyi , Barnard-Giustini Abbey , Johnson Kay M. , Ioannou George N.
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION:

The controlled attenuated parameter (CAP) score derived from vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE, i.e., FibroScan) is a well-validated marker of hepatic steatosis. It is unclear whether CAP scores are associated with risks of liver-related outcomes or all-cause mortality.

METHODS:

In this retrospective cohort study, we identified 7,587 United States veterans (2,689 with cured hepatitis C [hepatitis C virus], 1,523 with alcohol-associated liver disease, and 3,375 with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease [MASLD]) who underwent VCTE between May 2015 and December 2021. We followed patients for new hepatic decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma, and death from the VCTE date until January 1, 2022. Multivariable Cox-proportional hazards regression was used to assess for the associations between CAP measurements and clinical outcomes, adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, body mass index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, diabetes, liver disease etiology, liver stiffness measurements, and Fibrosis-4 score, and was reported separately by disease etiology and advanced fibrosis status.

RESULTS:

Over a median follow-up time of ∼1.9 years, hepatic steatosis (grades 1–3 vs 0) was associated with a lower risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.70, 95% CI: 0.57–0.85). Among patients with MASLD, hepatic steatosis was associated with a lower risk of decompensation (aHR 0.54, 95% CI: 0.32–0.90) and death (aHR 0.52, 95% CI: 0.37–0.73). These associations persisted in subgroup analyses of patients with advanced fibrosis and without cirrhosis.

DISCUSSION:

Among patients who underwent VCTE in clinical practice, the presence of substantial hepatic steatosis estimated by the CAP score was associated with lower all-cause mortality among all patients and lower risk of decompensation and death among those with MASLD.
Proportion and characteristics of Helicobacter pylori-negative gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lv Xiu-He , Lu Qing , Liu Jia-Huan , Xia Bi-Han , Wang Zi-Jing , Wang Zhu , Yang Jin-Lin
Published: October 2024

Background:

While Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is common in patients with gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, there are still individuals who test negative for it. The proportion and characteristics of these patients remain unclear.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for relevant articles. Using a random effects model, we performed a meta-analysis to assess the pooled proportion of gastric MALT lymphoma patients with negative H. pylori tests. Additionally, we compared characteristics between gastric MALT lymphoma patients with and without H. pylori infection to examine clinical features in H. pylori-negative cases.

Results:

A total of 50 studies involving 6033 patients were included. The overall proportion of gastric MALT lymphoma patients with negative H. pylori tests was 20.5% (95% confidence interval: 17.0%-24.6%). This rate exhibited an increasing trend over the years, particularly in non-Asian countries and in studies published after 2013, as well as in cases with sample sizes exceeding 100 participants, in male individuals, and among those with proximal or multiple lesions, non-superficial type morphology, submucosal invasion, and advanced clinical staging. Compared to H. pylori-positive patients, those who tested negative were more likely to be male, have proximal lesions, exhibit submucosal invasion, and present with an advanced clinical stage.

Conclusions:

This study provides comprehensive information on the proportion and characteristics of H. pylori-negative gastric MALT lymphoma cases, highlighting the need for future clinical attention to treatment and surveillance in this patient population.
ANALISIS PERBANDINGAN SILHOUETTE COEFFICIENT DAN METODE ELBOW PADA PENGELOMPOKKAN PROVINSI DI INDONESIA BERDASARKAN INDIKATOR IPM DENGAN K-MEDOIDS
Authors: Rahmawati Tias , Wilandari Yuciana , Kartikasari Puspita
Published: October 2024

Development is a process of change that is carried out consistently with the aim of improvement in all aspects of life with the prevailing values in society to achieve predetermined life goals. The quality of life of the community is measured by the Human Development Index (HDI) at the provincial level through three indicators, including: economic level, health, and education. K-medoids is a method used to group objects that contain outliers. In determining the optimal number of clusters using the Silhouette Coefficient method which has the advantage of determining the best number of clusters that can measure how close the relationship between objects and measure how far a cluster is separated from other clusters. The technique called the Elbow method is employed to ascertain the optimal quantity of clusters, which is done by examining the percentage outcomes derived from comparing the quantity of clusters that form an elbow at a certain point. Then cluster evaluation is carried out using the Davies Bouldin Index (DBI) as a comparison for cluster validation. The results of this study using the Silhouette Coefficient method produced the best cluster, namely 3 clusters with a Silhoutte Coefficient value of 0,3129 and a DBI value of 1,3184. Meanwhile, using the Elbow method produced the best cluster, namely 4 clusters with an SSE value of 54,5548 with a DBI value of 1,1754. So that the best cluster is 4 clusters with the Elbow method with the smallest DBI value.
ANALISIS KETAHANAN HIDUP PADA PENDERITA TUBERKULOSIS PARU-PARU MENGGUNAKAN METODE REGRESI COX PROPORTIONAL HAZARD
Authors: Ikrom Amirul , Tarno Tarno , Widiharih Tatik
Published: October 2024

Lung Tuberculosis is a type of infectious disease caused by the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis bacteria that attacks the lungs. The source of transmission of this disease is a patient with pulmonary tuberculosis. Indonesia has the third highest number of tuberculosis sufferers after India and China. To find out the factors that affect the patient's long survival time, survival analysis can be used. This study uses the Cox Proportional Hazard Regression method because this method can be used to determine the magnitude of the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The research data was obtained from data on Lung Tuberculosis patients at the Kajen II Public Health Center from January-December 2021. The dependent variable was the length of time they were treated until they experienced an incident (death). The independent variables consisted of age, gender, and history of taking medication (regular or irregular). Based on the results of the analysis, all independent variables had an effect on the dependent variable. The results obtained are that the age category of children is the most at risk of dying, the female sex is the most at risk, and patients with a history of taking irregular medication are the most at risk of dying.
IMPLEMENTASI METODE SINGULAR SPECTRUM ANALYSIS (SSA) PADA PERAMALAN INDEKS LQ45
Authors: Deli Teriska , Kartikasari Puspita , Utami Iut Tri
Published: October 2024

Stock market index forecasting is one of the research studies to obtain stock market index prediction using statistical and computational techniques, one of the techniques that can be used is Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA). SSA aims to decompose a time series into a set of independent components which have nonstatic tendencies such as trends, oscillations, and noise. SSA can be applied without any prior assumptions such as stationarity, linearity, and normality which seem impossible to fulfill by the fluctuation of stock market index data. One of the stock indices listed in Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is LQ45. The LQ45 index contains 45 selected stocks that have great performance in liquidity and fundamental aspects. LQ45 Index data has a nonstatic structure so it is suitable to be predicted using the SSA method. The forecasting uses the daily data of the LQ45 Index for the period of July 25, 2022 – November 14, 2022 with a window length (L) of 30. From the forecasting process, 4 groups were acquired and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) value was 1.69% to forecast the next 20 days. These results indicate that the forecasting process using SSA for LQ45 Index of the period is accurate.
PERAMALAN HARGA GULA PASIR MENGGUNAKAN VARIASI KALENDER REGARIMA DENGAN MOVING HOLIDAY EFFECT (PERIODE JANUARI 2018 SAMPAI DENGAN DESEMBER 2022 DI PASAR KOTA SEMARANG)
Authors: Pallupi Diah Ayu , Tarno Tarno , Rusgiyono Agus
Published: October 2024

National sugar production is decreasing day by day with the pattern of people's consumption of sugar continuing to increase, thus encouraging the government to import sugar from other countries to meet food needs. This is because the import of granulated sugar causes the price of local granulated sugar to fluctuate which can rise up to 2 times the highest retail price. Eid al-Fitr is determined based on the Islamic calendar, this will cause a shift in the date each year on the Maseh calendar, the date of the celebration of Eid al-Fitr which moves from year to year is known as the "moving holiday effect". One of the calendar variation models used to eliminate the Holiday Effect Transfer and has a simple processing flow is the RegARIMA model. The RegARIMA model method is a modeling technique that combines the ARIMA model with the regression model. In the regression model, the weight matrix is used as the independent variable and the price of granulated sugar is used as the dependent variable. The weight value is obtained based on the number of days that affect Eid, which is 14 days. Based on an analysis of the price of granulated sugar in the Semarang City market for the period January 2018 to December 2022, the best model is obtained, namely SARIMA (1,0,0)12 with the smallest AIC value and the sMAPE value obtained from forecasting data for 2021 is of 19.04%, which means that the forecasting is still at a reasonable level.
Framework to Development of Disaster Mitigation Model in Mountain Tourism Destination
Authors: Ismail Jalu Rafli , Kastolani Wanjat
Published: October 2024

The geographic position of Indonesia provides both disaster threat and natural resources potential. Indonesia is an archipelagic country located between three major tectonic plates, namely Indo-Australia; Pacific; and Eurasia. Consequently, numerous of active volcanoes and faults are spread across the islands. Indonesia’s unique landforms are often utilized as a unique tourism spot. Along the mountain ranges of Bogor and Cianjur, Bandung, and Garut to Tasikmalaya, various volcanic tourism spots exist side-by-side with the threat of volcanic eruption, mass movements, and earthquake. Therefore, disaster mitigation had to be properly planned to guarantee the sustainability of businesses and investments, as well as for tourists’ safety. This research aims to develop the mitigation model for mountain tourism destinations in West Java Province. Three of currently developing mountain tourism spots are Gede-Pangrango Mountain, Tangkuban Parahu Mountain, and Guntur Mountain. Design of this research is R&D through the 4-D model, consists of Define, Design, Develop, and Disseminate. Disaster mitigation model planning involves research subjects consisting of tourism destination management and local communities. Research instruments used include interviews and observations. The data obtained consists of information regarding disaster perceptions and severity measurements through observations. The developed mitigation model is subsequently validated by experts and research subjects to assess its suitability. The output of the development is a “Conceptual Model”, which is a participative mitigation strategy between tourism destination management and local communities. This conceptual mitigation model can be utilized by policymakers as a foundation for monitoring the spread of tourist destinations in facing natural disaster threats.
MANGROVE HEALTH INDEX IN MARTAJASAH MANGROVE ECOTOURISM, BANGKALAN REGENCY, EAST JAVA, INDONESIA
Authors: Farid Akhmad , Setiawan Eko , Arisandi Apri , Yusron Moch.
Published: October 2024

Mangrove areas need to be considered from the condition of distribution and density of mangrove forests for future mangrove forest management planning, especially on Madura Island, especially Martajasah mangrove ecotourism. The purpose of this study is to determine the type of mangrove, canopy cover, and mangrove health index. The method used in this study is observation, which is to know the general overview of the research to be carried out. The selection of the research location was determined by the stratified random sampling method. The canopy cover on the mangrove was measured using the Hemispherical Photography method using the front camera of the OPPO Reno 6 phone with a camera resolution of 8 megapixels with a 180° angle of view at the point of taking the photo. The results of this study found 7 types of mangroves, including Sonneratia alba, Sonneratia caseolaris, Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata, Avicennia alba, Avicennia marina, and Lumnitzera racemosa. The percentage of canopy cover obtained an average score of 63.44% or in the solid category. This indicates that the mangrove ecosystem found in Martajasah mangrove ecotourism is in a good category. The Mangrove Health Index in Martajasah Mangrove Ecotourism is included in normal (33-66%).
Revolutionizing livestock sustainability: Pioneering breeding strategies for superior forage biomass and quality
Authors: Pawan Kumar Dash  , K. N Ganesan  , N. Manivannan  , S. Vellai Kumar  , N. Senthil  , R. Pushpam
Published: October 2024

Livestock primarily rely on forage crops as a source of feed and nutrition. The milk productivity of a cow or meat production in goat/sheep could directly be associated with the availability of a sufficient quantity of quality green fodders with essential nutrients in a balanced ratio. Feeding the cereal/grass: legume fodders in the required proportion will not only improve productivity but also the reproductive capacity of animals. However, many countries of the world experience a huge gap between demand and availability of green fodder. In this context, emphasis should be placed on developing efficient forage genotypes with increased biomass and quality as per the requirements of animals, duly considering their digestibility. Breeding approaches encompassing required classical approaches, including wide hybridization to exploit natural genetic variability, biotechnological tools such as transgenic technology, marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, and various omics techniques alongside high-throughput phenotyping using multispectral cameras, would help to sustain livestock productivity by meeting out the present and future fodder requirements coupled with enhanced nutrients
Influence of AMY1 gene copy number on salivary amylase activity changes induced by exercise in young adults
Authors: Kobayashi Yui , Koibuchi Eri , Sakuraba Keishoku , Suzuki Yoshio
Published: October 2024

Human salivary amylase secretion increases in response to stress; the activity has been reported to rise significantly with high‐intensity exercise. The human salivary amylase gene (AMY1) has copy number variation, with the copy number correlating with salivary amylase activity. However, the relationship between individual AMY1 copy number and salivary amylase activity in response to exercise remains unclear. In this study, we investigated AMY1 copy number and fluctuations in amylase activity in 42 healthy university students (25 males and 17 females). Participants engaged in intermittent round‐trip interval training on a basketball court. Saliva samples were collected pre‐ and post‐exercise to measure amylase activity. DNA was extracted from the oral mucosa, and AMY1 copy number was quantified using RT‐PCR. Results showed a significant increase in amylase activity postexercise. Additionally, amylase activity pre‐ and post‐exercise was positively correlated with AMY1 copy number. The generalize linear model showed that the exercise‐induced increase in amylase activity per AMY1 gene was negatively related to the AMY1 copy number and aerobic fitness. Gender has no effect on amylase activity. These results suggest a different mechanism for the constitutive and exercise‐induced amylase secretion, while aerobic fitness may be independently involved in the secretion.
Reverse care at the end of life
Authors: Jing Jun , Song Min
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study investigates the phenomenon of reverse care, characterized by the actions of terminally ill individuals who, despite their own suffering, attend to the well-being of other people and society at large. While end-of-life care has been widely studied, the phenomenon of reverse care remains largely unexplored, even though it reflects personal autonomy, compassion and sense of social responsibility among people nearing the end of their lives. By drawing on the Buddhist notion of merit transfer, we applied the concept of reverse care in analyzing 146 interviews conducted in 2023 with family caregivers and healthcare professionals in China. Our aim was to uncover how terminally ill individuals expressed concern for other people.

Methods

We employed a qualitative analysis of interview transcripts using NVIVO software. The transcripts were coded into 83 reference points, seven primary codes, four axial codes, and a core code, focusing on recalled events, personal anecdotes, reflections on interpersonal relationships, and vignettes of end-of-life situations.

Results

Evidence of reverse care was identified in 25 percent of the interviews. Among the 83 reference points, 61 related to caring for one's own family, while 22 highlighted concern for society, fellow patients and medical staff. Although a common form of reverse care was clearly identified with the protective attitude that terminally ill patients displayed towards their own families, a significant number of individuals expressed a deep sense of social responsibility, exemplified by actions such as showing compassion for fellow patients, expressing gratitude to medical staff, insisting on eco-friendly burials, arranging for organ donations or offering their bodies for medical research.

Conclusions

This study highlights a different approach to understanding how individuals approach their final days with dignity and purpose. It suggests that reverse care in end-of-life situations fosters a process of meaningful engagement with the world through death and thereafter.
Von der Wende zur Zeitenwende (1990–2020) in Dresden, Sachsen und beim Deutschen Bibliotheksverband
Authors: Schöller Hannah , Flemming Arend
Published: October 2024

Mehr als 30 Jahre war Prof. Dr. Arend Flemming in der deutschen Bibliothekswelt aktiv. Neben der Leitung der Städtischen Bibliotheken Dresden war er sowohl im dbv Bundesverband als auch beim Landesverband Sachsen in führenden Positionen tätig. Besonders die Jahre nach der Wendezeit waren dabei prägend, aber auch insgesamt hat der ständige Wandel für sein Wirken immer eine Rolle gespielt. Im gemeinsamen Gespräch mit Hannah Schöller, seit 2024 Leiterin der Öffentlichkeitsarbeit an den Städtischen Bibliotheken Dresden, wagt er einen Blick auf das Erreichte in der Zeit von der Wende zur Zeitenwende.
6-Methoxyflavone improves anxiety, depression, and memory by increasing monoamines in mice brain: HPLC analysis and in silico studies
Authors: Arif Mehreen , Ur Rehman Naeem , Anjum Irfan , Rauf Khalid , Alotaibi Amal , Alhmidani Ghala
Published: October 2024

6-Methoxyflavone (6-MOF) is a flavonoid that has been reported to be a GABA-A receptor agonist and reverses cisplatin-induced hyperalgesia and allodynia. Considering the varied neuropharmacological profile of 6-MOF, this study was intended to determine the pharmacological effects of 6-MOF on locomotion, anxiety, novel object recognition (NOR), depression, spatial memory, socialization behavior, nest-building behavior, and depression in various groups of mice. Selected groups of mice were injected with 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg 6-MOF. Using HPLC-UV, the frontal cortex, striatum, and hippocampus of the sacrificed mice were analyzed for the levels of vitamin C, dopamine, serotonin, noradrenaline, adenosine, and its metabolites. Statistical analysis showed significant results in socialization behavior and elevated plus maze with 75 mg/kg. In Y-maze, NOR 6-MOF showed significant results at all three doses, while in tail suspension test (TST), 50 and 75 mg/kg showed significant results; however, no statistical significance was observed in nest-building behavior; 50 and 75 mg/kg 6-MOF showed significant results in the Morris water maze. 6-MOF raised vitamin C levels in the frontal cortex and hippocampus. Serotonin, dopamine, and nor-adrenaline levels were raised in the hippocampus and striatum. It has also imparted region-specific neuroprotection by improving adenosine and its metabolite levels. In silico studies performed using PyRx have shown that the minimum binding energy of 6-MOF with antioxidant enzyme is −7.1 k/cal/mol. The binding energy showed that 6-MOF was successfully docked with an anti-oxidant enzyme. In conclusion, in silico and behavioral studies showed that 6-MOF can be a potential candidate for the treatment of cognitive decline, anxiety, and depression.
Flow Field Analysis within Industrial Quenching Tanks Operated with Aqueous Polymer Solutions in the Steel Industry
Authors: Barbieri M. R. , Lübben Th. , Ebner G. , Buss L. , Riefler N. , Fritsching U.
Published: October 2024

Quenching with polymer solutions for steel heat treatment offers adjustable performance and improved ecological impact compared to conventional water or oil quenching. The submersion cooling operation poses challenges due to the intense vapor/polymer film collapse on the component surface, potentially destabilizing batch components. Therefore, controlled recirculation is critical to preventing tank and specimen damage during cooling and ensuring effective steel hardening. However, flow structure analysis is often overlooked and disregarded in industrial tank design. Thus, this study evaluates the tank geometries of two partner industries to determine if they provide the necessary homogeneous flow for optimal quenching. The analysis combines experimental velocity measurements with a numerical model, with the identification of different flow intensity regions being the main outcome of this work. The results suggest that geometric modifications could improve flow recirculation, enhancing quenching performance.
Solitary wave form of reaction rate in graphite diffusive medium using different neutron absorbers
Authors: Hosseinimotlagh Seyede Nasrin , Shakeri Abuzar , Zarei Mohammad Ali , Bayat Jahangir , Abbasi Kavoos , Rezaei Vahid Reza , Rasti Ehsan , Nesheli Ali Ghasempour , Vanaei Hamid Reza
Published: October 2024

Graphite nuclear properties such as moderating power and absorption cross-section, are not as good as those of heavy water. But its pure form can be prepared. Its structural and thermal properties are good and it has a high thermal conductivity. The thermal neutron in graphite performs an average of 1,200 scattering collisions before it is absorbed. This very low absorption cross section makes graphite as an ideal material for applications in nuclear reactors. In the current research, graphite is assumed as a diffusive medium due to its low absorption cross-section (0.0035 b) and having a low mass close to the neutron mass. In this medium: Boron (10B), Cadmium (113Cd), Samarium (149Sm), Europium (151Eu), Hafnium (177Hf) and Gadolinium (157Gd), separately are also considered as neutron absorbers. The aim of this paper is obtaining the solitary wave form of reaction rate in graphite diffusive medium using these neutron absorbers.
Microstructure evolution of AlSi10Mg alloy in RAP process
Authors: Tütük İbrahim , Acar Serhat , Özer Gökhan , Güler Kerem Altuğ
Published: October 2024

With its computer-aided layer-by-layer production approach, additive manufacturing (AM) and powder bed laser fusion (PBLF) paved the way to produce metallic parts more precisely than any other manufacturing technique. However, the combinability and the interaction of this relatively new manufacturing technique with the other near-net shape production techniques is still a mystery. In this study, the recrystallization and partial melting (RAP) behavior, which is a feedstock production approach for semisolid forming methods, investigated on AlSi10Mg parts produced by PBLF and conventional casting were compared in terms of microstructural and hardness evaluations. After the reheating process, the globalization of Si particles and the breakdown of the Si network around the melt pools were displayed with light microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. The hardness values of the PBLF as-fabricated specimens were found to be significantly higher than the as-cast specimens; however, the values were almost equaled after the RAP treatment and even got lower on the bottom and top regions of the PBLF samples after 20 min of reheating because of the enlarged shrinkage porosities and the coarsened morphology.
Malaysia’s progress in achieving the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs) through the lens of chemistry
Authors: Lee Hooi Ling , Lee Vannajan Sanghiran , Md Akil Mohd Abdul Muin , Mohammed Akib Noor Adelyna , Gew Lai Ti , Lim Teck Hock , Othman Rozana , Su’ait Mohd Sukor , Tang Wai Kit , Yeoh Yong Sheng , Chee Su Yin
Published: October 2024

Malaysia has initiated a roadmap aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to integrate them into its national development strategy. Chaired by the Prime Minister, the National SDG Council has established a participatory governance structure to foster collaboration among government agencies, civil society, and the private sector, promoting understanding of the SDGs’ interconnectedness. National symposiums and focus group sessions have been conducted to raise awareness and gather stakeholder input in formulating SDG-related policies and programs. Collaboration with NGOs, civil society, and the private sector has been prioritized, with initiatives integrated into the 11th Malaysian Plan to incorporate sustainable development into the national strategy. The creation of a national SDG Roadmap will offer a systematic approach to realizing the UN’s 2030 Agenda for SDGs. Chemistry serves as a crucial element in advancing SDGs by addressing pressing challenges and exploring new avenues for sustainable development. This article examines Malaysia’s sustainable development journey through a chemical lens, addressing 12 of the 17 SDGs. Malaysia aims to play a pivotal role in achieving these goals, addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges by leveraging scientific knowledge and innovation in chemistry. The recommendations underscore Malaysia’s potential to become a more resilient and sustainable nation, contributing significantly to global sustainability efforts.
The Great Powers Competition and Increasing Entropy in the Local Media Across Africa and Asia
Authors: Gooch Elizabeth , Kim Steven , Sobrepena Nicholas , Goethe Stone , Eckstrand Eric
Published: October 2024

The current United States National Defense Strategy prioritizes strategic competition with Russia and China, whereas for the previous two decades, the priority was counter-terrorism. This research aims to measure the extent to which competition among great powers is intensifying and identify where such intensification is taking place. To achieve this, we utilize a large, open-source dataset called GDELT 2.0, which provides an archive of global news articles. We calculate the entropy for local press coverage of great powers (e.g., the United States, China, Russia, France, and India) across 96 African and Asian nations to measure static competition levels. Additionally, we identify African and Asian nations where competition levels have changed significantly between 2015 and 2020. Our findings show that seven countries are experiencing increased competition among great powers, whereas seven other countries experience increased domination by one great power. When we aggregate the data geographically, we find that Southeast Asia is the only subregion where there is a significant decrease in competition. Our results align with the primary concern of the National Defense Strategy: that American influence is decreasing. Specifically, we have identified increased competition across Africa and increased domination across Asia. These trends are due to a relatively higher reporting of Chinese in-country public and private entities between 2015 and 2020.
Toll-like receptor 2-mediated ERK activation significantly upregulates interleukin-6 expression in M2-polarized macrophages
Authors: Jo Wol Soon , Kim Sung Dae , Jeong Soo Kyung , Oh Su Jung , Baik Ji Sue , Seo Ji An , Baek Jeong-Hwa , Lee Chang Geun , Kang Young-Rok , Jeong Min Ho , Park Moon-Taek
Published: October 2024

Objectives

M2-polarized macrophages and interleukin (IL)-6 significantly alter the tumor microenvironment and promote the malignant behaviors of tumor cells. This study aimed to establish M2-type macrophages from THP-1 cells, which are human leukemia monocytes, and investigate the significance of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) signaling in IL-6 production.

Methods

THP-1 cells were treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, IL-4, and IL-13 to stimulate their differentiation into M2 macrophages. Cell differentiation was confirmed by cytokine production, marker expression, and morphological alterations. Treatment with TLR agonists induced TLR stimulation in M2 macrophages. Subsequently, secretion and expression levels of IL-6 in M2 macrophages were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and western blotting.

Results

Myeloid differentiation factor 88, tumor necrosis factor-associated factor 6, and IL-1 receptor-associated kinase-1/4 signaling pathways contributed to IL-6 production upon TLR2 activation in M2 macrophages. While both TLR2 and TLR4 activated NF-κB in M2 macrophages, IL-6 production was mainly dependent on TLR2, not TLR4, suggesting the involvement of major mechanisms other than NF-κB in IL-6 production. Notably, TLR2-stimulated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) was necessary for abundant IL-6 production, indicating that TLR2-mediated ERK signaling plays an essential role in M2 macrophages.

Conclusions

These results highlight the significance of TLR2 signaling in IL-6 production by M2 macrophages and provide insights into the underlying regulatory mechanisms.
The Relationship between the Knowledge Economy and Marketing: a Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Šneiderienė Agnė , Zamkauskas Marius
Published: October 2024

Knowledge is a commodity of the knowledge economy, produced, disseminated and consumed in this environment. It should be
noted that the main enablers, the political system and society, and the main consumers, the economy and society, are highlighted. Moreover,
various marketing tools can be applied to promote a knowledge-based economy and ensure lifelong learning. The selection of
marketing solutions is contingent upon the degree to which society is prepared to transition to a knowledge-based economy. Thus, a
need exists to investigate the relationship between the knowledge economy and marketing. The aim of this research is: by applying
the bibliometric analysis method, to analyse the relationship between the knowledge economy and marketing. The analysis conducted
revealed that the knowledge economy is a relevant scientific field. Topic trend analysis revealed a shift in studies. From 2016 to
date, the emphasis has been on decision-making, manufacturing, sustainability and sustainable development. The focus of studies
has shifted from the United States and the European Union to China. This suggests future research directions, such as research into
the application of the knowledge economy in different settings and different sectors, and research into the relationship between the
knowledge economy and sustainability issues.
New research on Neolithic circular enclosures
Authors: Bertemes François
Published: October 2024

Today, Neolithic circular enclosures are generally regarded as evidence of the first monumental architecture in Europe. They are undoubtedly a topical subject in Neolithic research and also attract great interest from a broader audience. This has not always been the case. Just over 40 years ago, the few examples known then, mainly from Bavaria and Bohemia, were regarded as exotic and of no particular importance for the cultural-historical assessment of early farming societies in Europe. Thanks to aerial archaeology, the number of known sites increased rapidly in the 1970s and 1980s in Bavaria and Lower Austria. This has also been the case, since the 1990s, in East Germany and other countries of the former Eastern Bloc when political change made systematic prospecting flights possible. In addition, the development of geophysical prospection methods provided new insights into the structure and landscapes into which the enclosures were embedded. Finally, the increasing number of rescue excavations and large-scale scientific excavations have contributed to a better understanding of such sites as a characteristic component of Middle Neolithic societies in Central Europe.
Depicting Primate-Like Granular Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex in the Chinese Tree Shrew
Authors: Nie Xiu-Peng , Xu Xiao-Shan , Feng Zhao , Wang Wei , Ma Chen , Yang Yue-Xiong , Li Jin-Nan , Zhou Qi-Xin , Xu Fu-Qiang , Luo Min-Hua , Zhou Jiang-Ning , Gong Hui , Xu Lin
Published: October 2024

It remains unknown whether the Chinese tree shrew, regarded as the closest sister of primate, has evolved a dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) comparable with primates that is characterized by a fourth layer (L4) enriched with granular cells and reciprocal connections with the mediodorsal nucleus (MD). Here, we reported that following AAV-hSyn-EGFP expression in the MD neurons, the fluorescence micro-optical sectioning tomography revealed their projection trajectories and targeted brain areas, such as the hippocampus, the corpus striatum, and the dlPFC. Cre-dependent transsynaptic viral tracing identified the MD projection terminals that targeted the L4 of the dlPFC, in which the presence of granular cells was confirmed via cytoarchitectural studies by using the Nissl, Golgi, and vGlut2 stainings. Additionally, the L5/6 of the dlPFC projected back to the MD. These results suggest that the tree shrew has evolved a primate-like dlPFC which can serve as an alternative for studying cognition-related functions of the dlPFC.
IMPACT OF REAL-LIFE ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES ON REPRODUCTION: Impact of human-relevant doses of endocrine-disrupting chemical and drug mixtures on testis development and function
Authors: Mohajer Nicole , Culty Martine
Published: October 2024

In brief

Toxicological studies better resembling human exposures are needed to improve risk assessment. This review presents studies examining the impact of low-dose exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) mixtures, some combined with pharmaceuticals, on male reproduction in animal models and humans.

Exposure to EDCs and pharmaceuticals during development has been linked to reproductive dysfunction, reduced semen quality, and infertility. Research indicates that EDC mixtures, which are common in the modern environment, can pose significant risks that may not be fully assessed by studying individual compound toxicity, especially at environmentally relevant doses or concentrations. Understanding the contribution of chemical mixtures to male reproductive toxicity is crucial, given the increasing reliance on pharmaceuticals and pervasiveness of anthropogenic pollution. Recent studies on EDC effects have expanded to a more diverse range of microplastics, pesticides, antimicrobials, phytoestrogens, and pharmaceuticals, such as analgesics, which can collectively impact testicular function and fertility. Adverse outcomes observed across studies include reproductive tract malformations, decreased sperm count and motility, lowered testosterone, delayed-onset puberty, and possible causal effects, such as oxidative stress and altered gene expression. Still, limited data exist on combinations of environmental pollutants and pharmaceuticals with ED potential at human-relevant doses. This review of the recent literature aims to synthesize the toxicological impact of low-dose chemical mixtures on male reproductive health. Overall, humans are exposed to EDCs and drugs through various ways, necessitating an understanding of their concomitant effects on male reproductive health.
El loess: Un geoarchivo paleoambiental excepcional. Su presencia en España
Authors: García Giménez Rosario , González Martín Juan Antonio , Fidalgo Hijano Concepción
Published: October 2024

Los loess son depósitos eólicos que constituyen una excepcionalidad geomorfológica en el suroeste europeo y se desarrollaron durante diversas etapas paleoclimáticas de acentuada sequedad y frías temperaturas. Su valor como indicador paleoambiental y las aptitudes que ofrecen para ser datados por diferentes métodos de cronología absoluta explican las innumerables publicaciones efectuadas en multitud de regiones continentales. Esta monografía analiza las características de los sedimentos loessicos y su extensa distribución geográfica. además, elabora un estado de la cuestión sobre estos extraordinarios geoarchivos en España mediante una extensa revisión de las aportaciones científicas y donde no faltan las realizadas por los autores. El estudio destaca por el escenario estepario identificado mediante los loess españoles, y también por su ubicación en un ámbito que, durante el Cuaternario, fue un dominio de transición entre las fluctuaciones glaciales europeas y las pluviales norteafricanas. Este contexto le otorga un valor añadido, pues posibilita entender los futuros impactos diagnosticados por los expertos del cambio climático para los frágiles escenarios mediterráneos.
Retrospective study of the factors involved in the development of adenomyosis and the in vitro link between adenomyosis and breast cancer
Authors: Borozan Florina , Semenescu Alexandra Denisa , Sas Ioan , Bernad Elena , Iftode Andrada , Iftode Claudia , Susan Monica , Radu Daniela
Published: October 2024

Background and aims. Adenomyosis is a heterogeneous disease, which differs from patient to patient. The objective of our study was to evaluate the risk factors that influence the occurrence of adenomyosis, more precisely to highlight aspects that may be used in practice. In addition, the in vitro impact of levonorgestrel (a possible predisposing factor in the occurrence of adenomyosis) on MDA-MB-231 cells was evaluated, trying to obtain a link between adenomyosis and mammary cancer.
Methods. Clinical and demographic data of patients diagnosed with adenomyosis hospitalized between January and September 2023 in the Obstetrics-Gynecology Clinic were analyzed. For the in vitro assays, the MTT and LDH method was used to investigate the effect on cell viability and the potential cytotoxic effect of LG on MDA-MB-23 cells.
Results. Out of a total of 99 hysterectomies performed, the diagnosis of adenomyosis was confirmed by ultrasound in 28 cases. Among our patients, we could observe that most of cases of adenomyosis developed in women between 40 and 45 years old. Multiple pregnancies can influence the development of this uterine pathology, along with a history of uterine surgery and abortions. It was also found that treatment with sex hormones can increase the risk of adenomyosis. Our in vitro study has showed that LG stimulates the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells depending on the dose and time.
Conclusions. Personal history along with progestin treatment may influence myometrial lesions, leading to diffuse or focal adenomyosis. Moreover, in vitro, LG has been shown to stimulate the proliferation of breast cancer cells.
Pattern of situation of tuberculosis in the Islamic republic of Afghanistan
Authors: OI Bobokhojaev , Y Muhammadyusufi
Published: October 2024

Purpose of the study: to study the incidence of tuberculosis depending on gender, age and regional characteristics over the past 6 years (2017-2022) in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Material and methods: Data from the official statistics of the National Tuberculosis Program of Afghanistan, as well as the WHO assessment of the incidence of tuberculosis in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan over the past 6 years (2017-2022) were analyzed. Results: In the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, the situation with tuberculosis remains a cause for concern. Over the past 6 years, the difference in the frequency of detection of new cases of tuberculosis between the WHO estimate and official statistics ranges from 26.7% to 36.9%. It should be noted that in 2017-2019, the detection of tuberculosis improved slightly; in 2019-2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic occurred, the detection of new cases of tuberculosis decreased, and in 2020-2022 it increased again.. Over the past 6 years More women than men suffer from tuberculosis. The difference in incidence is 4490 cases in 2017, 7936 in 2018, 10990 in 2019, 4230 in 2020, 12453 in 2021 and 5690 cases in 2022 and is significant. In 2022, as in other years, more (40%) were diagnosed with tuberculosis in young people aged 15-34 years. Moreover, about 11% of new cases (5562 out of 51654 cases) were registered in the age group 0-4 years, which should be paid special attention to. The most serious situation regarding the incidence of tuberculosis is in the Khost, Nangarhar and Nimroz regions, which are 350, 324 and 315 per 100 thousand population, respectively. The best situation for tuberculosis incidence is in the Panjshir, Maidan-Wardak and Bamiyan regions, which are 47, 72 and 83 per 100,000 population, respectively. Conclusions: The difference in the incidence of new cases of tuberculosis between the WHO estimate and official statistics ranges from 26.7% to 36.9%. In 2019-2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic occurred, the number of new cases of tuberculosis decreased, and in 2020-2022 it increased again. Women are more prone to tuberculosis than men. 40% of new cases of tuberculosis are registered among young people aged 15-34 years, about 11% of new cases are registered in the age group 0-4 years. Among the 34 provinces of Afghanistan, the worst situation is in the provinces of Khost, Nangarhar and Nimroz, and the best situation for tuberculosis is in the provinces of Panjshir, Maidan Wardak and Bamiyan.
Molecular interactions of Trichoderma: from microbial competition to soil health promotion
Authors: NS Amerio , MP Barengo , GA Bich , ML Castrillo
Published: October 2024

The increasing demand for sustainable solutions to agricultural pest and disease management has positioned Trichoderma fungi as a promising biological control agent. Trichoderma is not only capable of suppressing various plant pathogens but also promotes plant growth and strengthens natural plant defenses. This mini-review explores the molecular mechanisms underlying Trichoderma's ability to function as a biocontrol agent, focusing on nutrient competition, antibiotic production, mycoparasitism, and the induction of plant resistance. Additionally, advances in genomics and transcriptomics have facilitated a deeper understanding of the signaling pathways and genes responsible for Trichoderma's biocontrol effectiveness, including G-protein and MAPK pathways. Beyond pathogen suppression, Trichoderma plays a key role in enhancing soil health and establishing symbiotic relationships with plants, contributing to improved nutrient absorption and growth hormone production. However, challenges remain in translating laboratory success to large-scale field applications. This mini review highlights the need for further research on optimizing Trichoderma formulations, understanding its interaction with other beneficial soil organisms, and exploring genetic engineering to enhance its biocontrol capabilities. The future of Trichoderma lies in its integration into holistic, agroecological systems alongside other sustainable pest management strategies.