bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of polyamide dendrimers on properties of PVA/PAA hydrogel films
Authors: Abdalgader Asma , Elhrari Wael , Elejmi Ali
Published: March 2023

Polyamide dendrimers, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) were heat-treated for hydrogels films preparation. The effect of the dendrimers periphery type (OH, NH2), dendrimers content, and generation number on the properties of the hydrogels and adsorption performance at different pHs have been examined. Chemically bonded dendrimers into the hydrogel showed a high swelling ratio and high gel content compared to a neat film of PVA/PAA. The incorporation of dendrimers increases the swelling ability of the hydrogel. The highest swelling obtained was at low dendrimers content and high generation numbers G6-OH and G6-NH2. The diffusion of water within the hydrogel follows the Fickian character. Combining the polyamide dendrimers into the hydrogel films showed potential use in metal chelating and the adsorption of Ni2+, Zn2+, Fe2+, and Cu2+ ions onto the hydrogel. The adsorption results have shown dependency on pH, generation number, and dendrimers content. The adsorption increases at pH 6, high generation number, and high dendrimers content regardless of the periphery. The hydrogel containing G6-OH had high swelling and metal ion adsorption.
Regulating NLRP3 Inflammasome-Induced Pyroptosis via Nrf2: TBHQ Limits Hyperoxia-Induced Lung Injury in a Mouse Model of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Wang Minrong , Zhang Feng , Ning Xuemei , Wu Chan , Zhou Yue , Gou Zhixian , Fan Yang , Duan Rongrong , Li Zhongni , Shao Chunyan , Lu Liqun
Published: March 2023

Background
Nuclear factor e2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a key role in cellular resistance to oxidative stress injury. Oxidative stress injury caused by Nrf2 imbalance leads to cellular abnormalities, such as increased pyroptosis, DNA damage, and inflammatory activation, which may lead to the arrest of alveolar development and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in premature infants under hyperoxic conditions.
Methods
We established a BPD mouse model to investigate the effects of tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), an Nrf2 activator, on oxidative stress injury, pyroptosis, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and alveolar development.
Results
TBHQ reduced abnormal cell death in the lung tissue of BPD mice and restored the number and normal structure of alveoli. TBHQ administration activated the Nrf2/haem oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signalling pathway, resulting in the decrease of the following: reactive oxygen species (ROS), activation of the NOD-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, and expression and activation of IL-18 and IL-1β, as well as inhibition of pyroptosis. In contrast, after Nrf2 gene knockout in BPD mice, the degree of oxidative stress injury and cell death in the lungs was more severe, and the development of alveoli was significantly blocked.
Conclusions
We demonstrate that TBHQ may promote alveolar development by enhancing the level of Nrf2-induced antioxidation in the lung tissue of BPD mice, and that the decrease in the NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptosis caused by Nrf2 activation may be the main mechanism at play. These results suggest that TBHQ is a promising treatment for lung injury in premature infants with hyperoxia.
Gut microbiota and its relation to inflammation in patients with bipolar depression: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Huang Tingting , Shang Yushan , Dai Chunxiao , Zhang Qixiu , Hu Shaohua , Xie Jian
Published: March 2023

Background
To explore the gut microbiota characteristics in depressed patients with bipolar disorder (BD) as well as the connection between the gut microbiota and inflammatory markers.
Methods
Totally 72 depressed BD patients and 16 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled in the study. Blood and feces samples were taken from each subject. With the help of 16S-ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, the characteristics of the gut microbiota in each participant were examined. Correlation analysis was then utilized to assess the relationship between the gut microbiota and clinical parameters.
Results
We found the taxonomic composition of the gut microbiota, but not its diversity, was significantly different in BD patients compared to HCs. We found the abundance of Bacilli, Lactobacillales and genus Veillonella were higher in BD patients than in HCs, while genus Dorea was more abundant in HCs. Additionally, correlation analysis showed that the bacterial genera’ abundance in BD patients was strongly correlated with the severity of depression and inflammatory markers.
Conclusions
According to these results, the gut microbiota characteristics were changed in depressed BD patients, which may have been associated with the severity of depression and the inflammatory pathways.
Relational security: conceptualization and operationalization in small-scaled, strengths-based, community-embedded youth justice facilities.
Authors: Souverein Fleur , Mulder Eva , Domburgh Lieke , Popma Arne
Published: March 2023

Background
Given the developmental vulnerability of justice-involved youth, providing a safe environment in secure facilities is a paramount, yet challenging task. Within this complexity, a sound security framework is key. Existing knowledge points at the importance of a shift in focus on physical- and procedural security towards relational security as the core of the security framework, facilitated by other security measures. At the same time there is a dearth of knowledge on relational security, particularly in the context of youth justice. This paper explores relational security and its working mechanisms in practice.
Methods
This paper draws on findings of a comprehensive three-year evaluation of three small-scaled, community-embedded facilities that are grounded in relational security. The approach of the evaluation was derived from action research, involving a cyclic process alternating between action, research and critical reflection, while engaging all stakeholders in the research process. The action research cycle involved qualitative research (a total of 61 semi-structured interviews) incorporating the perspective of staff, youth and parents.
Results
Relational security is grounded in three distinct, but interrelated, elements – staff’s basic attitude, a constructive alliance between staff and youth, staff presence – and promotes a safe and therapeutic environment through several mechanisms.
Conclusions
Relational security can be defined in a practical framework; outlining a way of working that guides staff in how to establish a safe and therapeutic environment in residential forensic youth care. This framework finds support in the well-established literature on the therapeutic alliance and can be substantiated by two aligning theories concerning youth justice strategies: social-ecological theory and self-determination theory. Relational security is not only a way of working, but also a way of being. It encompasses a vision about security and mentality towards justice-involved youth that sees them not merely as ‘risks to be managed’, but as ‘resources to be developed’.
Unusual Clinical Spectra of Childhood Severe Malaria During Malaria Epidemic in Eastern Uganda: A Prospective Study
Authors: Namayanja Cate , Eregu Egiru Emma Isaiah , Ongodia Paul , Okalebo Charles Benard , Okiror William , Okello Francis , Okibure Ambrose , Paasi George , Kakungulu Hellen , Grace Abongo , Muhindo Rita , Banks Duncan , Martin Chebet , Taylor-Robinson Simon , Olupot-Olupot Peter
Published: March 2023

Background
In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), malaria remains a public health problem despite recent reports of declining incidence. Severe malaria is a multiorgan disease with wide-ranging clinical spectra and outcomes that have been reported to vary by age, geographical location, transmission intensity over time. There are reports of recent malaria epidemics or resurgences, but few data, if any, focus on the clinical spectrum of severe malaria during epidemics. We describe the clinical spectrum and outcomes of childhood severe malaria during the disease epidemic in Eastern Uganda.
Methodology:
This prospective cohort study from October 1, 2021, to September 30, 2022, was nested within the Malaria Epidemiological, Pathophysiological and Intervention studies in Highly Endemic Eastern Uganda (TMA2016SF-1514-MEPIE Study) at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda. Children aged 60 days to 12 years who at admission tested positive for malaria and fulfilled the clinical WHO criteria for surveillance of severe malaria were enrolled on the study. Follow-up was performed until day 28. Data were collected using a customised proforma on social demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes. Laboratory analyses included complete blood counts, malaria RDT (SD BIOLINE Malaria Ag P.f/Pan, Ref. 05FK60-40-1) and blood slide, lactate, glucose, blood gases and electrolytes. In addition, urinalysis using dipsticks (Multistix® 10 SG, SIEMENS, Ref.2300) at the bedside was done. Data were analysed using STATA V15.0. The study had prior ethical approval.
Results
A total of 300 participants were recruited. At admission, the median age was 4.6 years (range two months − 11.8 years). Many children, 164/300 (57.7%,) were under five years, and 171/300 (57.0%) were males. The common clinical features were prostration 236/300 (78.7%), jaundice in 205/300 (68.3%), severe malarial anaemia in 158/300 (52.7%), blackwater fever 158/300 (52.7%) and multiple convulsions 51/300 (17.0%). Prolonged hospitalisation was found in 56/251 (22.3%) and was associated with hypoxaemia OR 6.3 (95% CI: 2.1, 18.1), P = 0.001. The overall mortality was 19/300 (6.3%). Day 28 follow-up was achieved in 247/300 (82.3%).
Conclusion
During a 2022 malaria epidemic in Eastern Uganda, the common clinical features for childhood severe malaria were prostration 236/300 (78.7%), jaundice 205/300 (68.3%), severe malarial anaemia 158/300 (52.7%), blackwater fever 158/300 (52.7%) and multiple convulsions 51/300 (17.0%).
miR-103a-3p suppresses cell proliferation and migration in Hirschsprung’s disease partly by targeting PIK3R1
Authors: Luª Yi , Wangª Chen , Yangª Liucheng , Yu Daiyue , Fan Kaisi , Zhang Mengzhen , Luo Caiyun , Huang Zhaorong , Su Yuqian , Yang Yang , Wu Kai
Published: March 2023

Objective To elucidate the function and mechanism of the miR-103a-3p in the development of HSCR. Methods PCR was used to confirm the differential miR-103a-3p expression in tissue specimens. Then, CCK-8 and transwell assays were used to determine the effect of miR-103a-3p on cell proliferation and migration. MiRNA Target predict software Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes Genomes (KEGG), Gene Ontology (GO) and protein–protein interaction network (PPI) analyses were used to predict possible target genes. Then, PCR, automated immunoblotting, dual luciferase reporter assays and rescue assays were used to confirm the target genePIK3R1 in vitroandin tissue. Results miR-103a-3p was significantly upregulated in HSCR colon tissues. miR-103a-3p inhibited cell growth and migrationin vitro.Bioinformatic analysis suggested thatPI3KR1was a potential target of miR-103a-3p in HSCR. miR-103a-3p can bind toPI3KR1and affectPI3KR1mRNA expression and protein levels. The negative correlation between miR-103a-3p andPI3KR1was confirmed in tissue samples. A rescue assay also demonstrated thatPI3KR1can partially reverse the effect of miR-103a-3p on cell proliferation and migration. Conclusions miR-103a-3p can inhibit cell growth and motility, partially by targetingPI3KR1. miR-103a-3p plays an important role in the development of HSCR.
Balanced ideals and domains of discontinuity of Anosov representations
Authors: Stecker Florian
Published: March 2023

We consider Anosov subgroups of a semi-simple Lie group, a higher rank generalization of convex cocompact groups. Cocompact domains of discontinuity for these groups in flag manifolds were constructed systematically by Kapovich, Leeb and Porti in [KLP18]. For ∆-Anosov groups, we show that every cocompact domain of discontinuity arises from this construction, up to a few exceptions in low rank. We use this to compute which flag manifolds admit such domains, and the number of different domains in some cases. We also find a new compactification for locally symmetric spaces arising from maximal representations into Sp(4n+2,R).
Mechanical & Tribological behaviour of Squeeze casted Mg/SiC Composites for Defense Applications
Authors: P Pandiyaraj , A Manivannan , Pandian C. K. Arvinda , Ramnath B. Vijaya
Published: March 2023

Nowadays Magnesium Matrix composites (MMCs) replace conventional materials with their enhanced properties in notable biomedical applications like cardiovascular stents, dental implants, etc. and also in chemical, aerospace and automotive applications owing to lightweight structural and low density properties. This research work discusses about mechanical and wears behaviour of the Magnesium Matrix Composites fabrication using combined squeeze cast & stir casting route. By this liquid metallurgy manufacturing route, agglomeration and non-uniform dispersion of reinforcement particulates were reduced which in turn improves the properties and also specific performance of the produced composites. Pure Mg powder is chosen as base and Micron sized Silicon Carbide is taken as reinforcement companion to fabricate magnesium composites of different weight (0, 3, 6, 9 and 12%) fractions. It was observed that enhancement in Micro hardness to 40%, Wear test results shows 28% reduction in wear rate with addition of 12 wt% SiC when compared with pure magnesium composite. It was also noted that the addition of 12 wt% SiC, the produced composite’s compressive behaviour is increased from 83 MPa to 176 MPa.
Identification of genetic variants affecting reproduction traits in Vrindavani cattle
Authors: Gangwar Munish , Kumar Subodh , Ahmad Sheikh Firdous , Singh Akansha , Agarwal Swati , L Anitta. P. , Kumar Amit
Published: March 2023

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are one of the best ways to look into the connection between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and phenotypic performance. This study aimed to identify the genetic variants that significantly affect the important reproduction traits in Vrindavani cattle using genome-wide SNP chip array data. In this study, 96 randomly chosen Vrindavani cows were genotyped using the Illumina Bovine50K BeadChip platform. A linear regression model of the genome-wide association study was fitted in the PLINK program between genome-wide SNP markers and reproduction traits, including age at first calving (AFC), inter calving period (ICP), dry days (DD), and service period (SP) in the first three lactations. Information on different QTLs and genes, overlapping or adjacent to genomic coordinates of significant SNPs, was also mined from relevant databases in order to identify biological pathways associated with reproductive traits in bovine. The Bonferroni correction resulted in 39 SNP markers present on different chromosomes being identified that significantly affected the variation in AFC (6 SNPs), ICP (7 SNPs), DD (9 SNPs), and SP (17 SNPs), respectively. Novel potential candidate genes for reproductive traits identified using the GWAS methodology included UMPS, ITGB5, ADAM2, UPK1B, TEX55, bta-mir-708, TMPO, TDRD5, MAPRE2, PTER, AP3B1, DPP8, PLAT, TXN2, NDUFAF1, TGFA, DTNA, RSU1, KCNQ1, ADAM32, and CHST8. The significant SNPs and genes associated with the reproductive traits and the enriched genes may be exploited as candidate biomarkers in animal improvement programs, especially for improved reproduction performance in bovines.
The Adaptation of MAIN to Luganda
Authors: Oriikiriza Celestino , Uziel Sigal
Published: March 2023

The present paper reports on how the MAIN instrument was adapted to Luganda, a Bantu language spoken in Uganda, for assessing the narrative skills of Luganda-speaking children. The adaptation involved recommendations for cultural adaptations of the picture sets and translation of the manual into Luganda. The paper also describes the first (pilot) study using the Luganda MAIN, and how the bureaucratic, linguistic, and technical challenges along the way were dealt with. In addition, preliminary results are reported and discussed, followed by some conclusions and suggestions for future research.
Adapting the Multilingual Assessment Instrument for Narratives to Tamil
Authors: Abinayaa Kannan , Venkatesh Lakshmi , Nehru P Arul , Raman Madhavi Gayathri
Published: March 2023

This paper reports on the adaptation of the Multilingual Assessment Instrument for Narratives (MAIN) to Tamil. We first briefly provide an overview of the Tamil language and the Tamil population in the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India and then we describe in detail the multiple phases of the adaptation process including input from some pilot data from Tamil-speaking children.
Acquisition of narrative macrostructure: A comprehensive overview of results from the Multilingual Assessment Instrument for Narratives
Authors: Lindgren Josefin , Tselekidou Freideriki , Gagarina Natalia
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we give a comprehensive overview of the results from studies that have used the Multilingual Assessment Instrument for Narratives (MAIN) to investigate comprehension and production of narrative macrostructure (story structure) to date. We show the wide range of research in which MAIN has been used through summaries of core results from studies that investigated age effects, and studies that compared monolinguals with bilinguals, bilinguals’ two languages, and typically-developing (TD) children with children with developmental language disorder (DLD). Results from studies including factors that influence bilinguals’ narrative skills (e.g., language skills, language input) are also covered, as are those that deal with methodological aspects and more specifically, task effects, i.e., how the choice of elicitation mode (telling; retelling; model story) and story (Cat/Dog; Baby Birds/Baby Goats) influence story structure and story comprehension. As concluding remarks, we summarize the state-of-the-art of narrative research using MAIN and outline possible directions for future studies.
Investigating The Academic Experience of Science Education Students with Virtual Laboratory Classes: A Convergent Parallel Approach
Authors:   Bachelor of Secondary Education (Major in Science), Davao del Norte State College, 8M7C+C4P, Panabo, Davao del Norte, Philippines, Amanio Ymarey Kyle V , Legaspino Camila O. ,   Bachelor of Secondary Education (Major in Science), Davao del Norte State College, 8M7C+C4P, Panabo, Davao del Norte, Philippines, Mondido Jhuvan Rhey C. ,   Bachelor of Secondary Education (Major in Science), Davao del Norte State College, 8M7C+C4P, Panabo, Davao del Norte, Philippines, Somosot Ian S ,   Institute of Teacher Education, Davao del Norte State College, 8M7C+C4P, Panabo, Davao del Norte, Philippines, Borlio Jevannel G ,   Institute of Teacher Education, Davao del Norte State College, 8M7C+C4P, Panabo, Davao del Norte, Philippines
Published: March 2023

Virtual laboratories are operative platforms utilised by science education students during the pandemic. The study was designed to determine the virtual laboratory experiences of science education students in terms of usability, quality of service, and sense of reality with an exploration of the contributing factors that affect their experiences. The outcomes were supported by John Dewey’s Social Constructivist Learning Theory, Dave Kolb’s Experiential Learning, and Edgar Dale’s Cone of Experience. This study used a convergent parallel design to understand the subject thoroughly. In the quantitative approach, 100 respondents met the inclusion through a purposive sampling technique. In the qualitative approach, six participants are purposely selected by the snowball sampling technique. Quantitative data in the study were analysed through statistical analysis of Frequency, Mean, Independent T-test, and ANOVA. Moreover, qualitative data were analysed using Thematic Analysis performed through Colaizzi’s Method. Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated using Joint Display Analysis. In quantitative key findings, virtual laboratories for science education students are helpful. The results also revealed that there is no significant difference in the level of assessment of science education students on their academic experience with virtual laboratories when grouped according to gender and year level. On the other hand, qualitative results revealed that science education students have eight contributing factors affecting their assessment of their academic experience with virtual laboratories. The results of this mixed method research design can be a basis for future researchers to undertake either pure qualitative or quantitative research design.
Design of a Teaching-Learning Sequence and Its Effect on Self-Efficacy and Perceptions of Prospective Chemistry Teacher Students: An Educational Reconstruction Study of Fire-Retardant Bamboo
Authors:   Department of Chemistry Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Jl. Dr. Setiabudi 229, Bandung, 40154 West Java, Indonesia, Mudzakir Ahmad , - Hernani ,   Department of Chemistry Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Jl. Dr. Setiabudi 229, Bandung, 40154 West Java, Indonesia, Afifah Auliya ,   Department of Chemistry Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Jl. Dr. Setiabudi 229, Bandung, 40154 West Java, Indonesia, Afifah Sakhiyyah ,   Department of Science Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Jl. Dr. Setiabudi 229, Bandung, 40154 West Java, Indonesia
Published: March 2023

This research was conducted to reconstruct the sustainability-oriented learning stages’ design on fire-retardant bamboo and its effect on self-efficacy and perceptions of prospective chemistry teacher students. This study uses mix method with Exploratory Sequential Design, which is guided by the Model of Educational Reconstruction (MER) with the following stages: (1) content structure analysis, (2) research on students’ pre-conceptions, and (3) learning design development. The instruments used were text analysis sheets, interview guidelines, validation sheets for the design of the learning stages, and questionnaires on student self-efficacy and perceptions. The topic used to develop the learning stages is the concept of ionic liquids as fire-retardant agents. The research data are scientific conceptions related to learning issues and chemical ideas. In addition, students’ pre-conceptions regarding learning topics were obtained, followed by results validating the design of learning stages as well as the ability of students’ perceptions and selfefficacy. The scientist’s conception was analysed using the content qualitative analysis method, resulting in a concept map. The result of students’ pre-conception on fire-retardant bamboo interview showed that the topic was new to the students. The percentage of students’ self-efficacy abilities increased to 88.9%, which is in the excellent category. The students’ perceptual abilities rate increased to 92.8%, which is in the agreed category. Thus, the design of sustainabilityoriented learning stages on fire-retardant bamboo can increase the self-efficacy and perceptions of prospective chemistry teacher students. The design of the learning stages can help prospective teacher students integrate chemical concepts with technological engineering in learning. Using sustainable materials in the learning stages can foster sustainability literacy in students and support the creation of sustainability-oriented education in the higher education environment
Effectiveness of Academic Intervention on Learning of Environmental Science among Slow Learners
Authors:   Department of Home Science, IIS (Deemed to be University), Gurukul Marg, SFS Manasarovar, Hans Vihar, Kalyanpura, Mansarovar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302020, India, Kumari Archana , Kataria Alka ,   Department of Environmental and Life Sciences, IIS (Deemed to be University), Gurukul Marg, SFS Manasarovar, Hans Vihar, Kalyanpura, Mansarovar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302020, India
Published: March 2023

The present study was conducted to find out the impact of teaching with intervention module on learning of the subject Environmental Science among slow learners, studying in the third class of Government Upper Primary Schools of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Out of total 53 slow learners identified from three schools of Jaipur, Rajasthan, slow learners of two schools were taught with intervention module in two different classroom settings: Remedial classes and Inclusive classrooms. The slow learners of the third school were taught with conventional methods by their subject teacher. The result showed significant improvement in the post-test score of slow learners in Environmental Science after being taught with an intervention module in both remedial classes and inclusive classroom settings. However, slow learners taught in inclusive classrooms scored higher in posttest as compared to those taught in remedial classes. No significant difference was found in the post-test score of normal students taught in remedial and inclusive classroom settings. Dealing with slow learners in the classroom is a universal matter of concern for all educators across the world so, the encouraging findings of this study can be an example for them. A simple change in the curriculum, pedagogy and classroom sitting arrangement that is pairing normal students with slow learners (peer tutoring) in regular classroom can bring a remarkable change in the achievement of not only slow learners but also of normal students. Besides this, there is a need for specific strategies and policies for making these students perform on par with normal students, such as allocation of more budget for training the workforce and establishing science and technology resource centers. The findings and limitations of the study suggest several possibilities for future empirical research in other subject at primary, secondary and higher level of education.
A Historical Perspective of Science Education in Japan: Which Way is it Headed in the Future?
Authors:   Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-1-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima City, Hiroshima, 739-8524 Japan, Isozaki Tetsuo
Published: March 2023

Japan has achieved rapid modernisation compared with other Asian countries, and Japanese students often obtain higher scores on international science assessment tests than students from Western countries that have influenced Japan. The question of what led Japan to attain such a position and what can be expected in the future persists. To understand the future of science education in schools, called rika in Japan, as well as its complex and multi-layered status in schools, it is important to employ a historical approach. This study examines the following analytical points: the slogan “Science for all and for excellence,” the West’s influence, and social changes. This study also explores the pre- and post-World War II eras. Finally, expectations for the near future are discussed. It is known that Japan will continue to develop rika that encompasses both homogeneous and heterogeneous Western science education, considering the global trends in science education. Consequently, while the policy of “Science for all” will be maintained in the near future, “Science for excellence” programmes, such as the “Super Science High Schools” programme, can be extended in terms of the supply of future scientists and engineers. This can be partly at the request of the industrial sector to survive international economic competition based on scientific and technological innovation and to maintain its international status. An important lesson from history is that science, as a part of liberal education, is provided for the individual wellbeing of scientifically literate citizens, rather than for the nation’s benefit. Therefore, the duality of “Science for all and for excellence” should not be considered in terms of binary opposition; “for excellence” should be recognised as encompassed by and a form or part of “for all.”
Charting the Southeast Asian Science Teachers’ Challenges into Recommendations for Future Online Regional Courses
Authors:   Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, 35900 Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia, Mustafa Zainun , Sinniah Deva Nanthini ,   Training and Research Division, SEAMEO RECSAM, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Cyril Nelson ,   Training and Research Division, SEAMEO RECSAM, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia,   Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Pondok Upeh, Jalan Balik Pulau, 11000 Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Syukor Sharfuddin Abdul ,   Training and Research Division, SEAMEO RECSAM, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia,   Ministry of Education Malaysia, Block E8, Parcel E, Federal Government Administrative Centre, 62604 Putrajaya, Malaysia, Sinniah Sivaranjini ,   Training and Research Division, SEAMEO RECSAM, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Published: March 2023

The regional courses for science teachers in Southeast Asia (SEA) offer participants with the inservice knowledge and skills while promoting deliberate discussions about recent issues related to teaching profession and the sharing of best practices in science education. A total of 21 teachers from eight SEA countries were purposefully selected to participate in this course as nominated by their respective education ministerial officers. Given that the participants came from different countries and attended the course virtually for four weeks, this article aims to chart participants’ insights to be backed as data for future course facilitation. The findings are based on post-course evaluation garnered from 21 unstructured essays provided by participants with a focus on two key aspects: (1) the challenges that participants encountered prior to or during the courses, and (2) a recommendation for a similar course in future. Five challenges emerged from the findings include; English proficiency, socio-cultural preferences in social activities, digital technology access and skills, time and schedule constraints, and institutional challenges. In terms of recommendations, participants shared their thoughts on how to better facilitate and manage course administration. Since the majority of professional development courses are held at the national level, this study helped to consolidate country differences and served as the foundation of evidence for future courses that will adapt similar region-based online participations.
Resistance to Sulfur Dioxide as a Criterion for Selecting Saccharomyces cerevisiae for Organic Winemaking
Authors: Peskova Irina , Tanashchuk Tatiana , Ostroukhova Elena , Lutkova Nataliya , Vyugina Mariya
Published: March 2023

Sulfur dioxide is a popular conserving agent and antioxidant in winemaking. Unfortunately, it is bad for human health. Some yeast strains can reduce the dose of sulfur dioxide. Such yeasts should have good fermentation activity and dominate when inoculated into grape must. In addition, it should not synthesize sulfur dioxide and SO2-binding substances. The synthesis of sulfur dioxide and carbonyl compounds by yeast is related to the mechanisms of sulfur dioxide detoxification. The research objective was to study the relationship between the resistance of yeast to sulfur dioxide and its ability to synthesize sulfur dioxide and acetaldehyde during growth.

The study featured 17 yeast strains of the genus Saccharomyces. The yeasts were cultivated on grape must in a CGQ device until the stationary growth phase. The concentration of free and bound forms of sulfur dioxide was determined by titration, while that of aldehydes was determined by bisulfite method. The sulfite resistance of strains was measured ¬¬by the growth response of yeast cells to sulfur dioxide using CGQ technology.

Yeast strains differed in the degree of sulfur dioxide resistance. The samples were divided according to the increase in the lag phase time: by ≥ 8 h (sensitive), by 2–6 h, without changes (resistant). At Wilks L = 0.228 and α = 0.05, the sensitive cultures in a SO2-free medium had the highest value of minimal generation time in the exponential growth phase (5.3 ± 2.1 h). The resistant samples demonstrated the highest synthesis of acetaldehyde (54.7 ± 11.1 mg/L) and sulfur dioxide (21.0 ± 10.3 mg/L). The second group cultures had the lowest content of SO2-bound forms in the medium (10.9 ± 4.2 mg/L) and were in an interposition in terms of other indicators.

The time it takes a yeast strain to adapt to sulfur dioxide can be used as a parameter for the primary culture selection in eco-winemaking. According to the physiological and biochemical profile, the resistant strains can be recommended for the production of SO2-low wines, while the samples from the second test group proved optimal for organic wines. Further research will expand the range of yeast strains and their indicators.
Biotechnology of Lactulose Production: Progress, Challenges, and Prospects
Authors: Ryabtseva Svetlana , Khramtsov Andrey , Shpak Maria , Lodygin Alexey , Anisimov Georgy , Sazanova Serafima , Tabakova Yulia
Published: March 2023

Lactulose is a prebiotic that has found a wide application in medicine and food industry. Commercial lactulose is usually synthesized by isomerization in alkaline media at high temperatures. Enzymatic methods offer a more sustainable alternative and require more moderate processing conditions.

This review covers 44 years of scientific publications (1978–2022) on the enzymatic synthesis and purification of lactulose. The materials were retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Elibrary databases.

The enzymatic approach to lactose-to-lactulose conversion has two methods: isomerization (direct) and transgalactosylation (via hydrolysis). Isomerization exploits cellulose-2-epimerases, but their safety status is still rather vague. As a result, cellulose-2-epimerases are not commercial. Epilactose is a by-product of isomerization. Transgalactosylation involves β-galactosidases with an official international safety status (GRAS). It is available on the market, and its action mechanism is well understood. This article systematizes various data on the conditions for obtaining the maximal yields of lactulose by different enzymes.

The Kluyveromyces lactis yeast and the Aspergillus oryzae mold are the main sources of β-galactosidases in lactulose production. The yield can reach 30% if the processing conditions are optimal. Fructose remains the main problem in the production process. No scientific publications revealed a direct relationship between the maximal yields of lactulose and the molar fructose-tolactose ratios. Cellobiose epimerases make it possible to achieve high yields of lactulose (70–80%). However, these enzymes are associated with genetic engineering and mutagenesis, which challenges their safety status. The most promising trends in lactulose biotechnology include secondary dairy raw materials, immobilized enzymes, membrane reactors, complex production processes, lactose-to-lactulose conversion, and purification of final product.
Chemical Composition and Sensory Profile of Sauerkraut from Different Cabbage Hybrids
Authors: Yanchenko Elena , Volkova Galina , Kuksova Elena , Virchenko Ivan , Yanchenko Aleksey , Serba Elena , Ivanova Maria
Published: March 2023

Fermented foods have a longer shelf life and higher nutritional value. Sauerkraut products depend on the quality of the raw material. Not every cabbage variety is suitable for processing. The present research objective was to test several cabbage hybrids for natural fermentation, microbiological parameters, and native sugar content after four months of storage.

The study featured twelve new-generation white cabbage hybrids of Russian selection and sauerkraut foods. The experimental batches were stored for four months at –1–0°C. Fermentation occurred at 21°C and final pH ≤ 3.6. The sugar content and titratable acidity were measured by standard methods. The method of limiting dilutions was applied to determine the microbial count. The microbiological seeding process followed standard procedures.

The highest content of total sugars before fermentation belonged to the late-ripening hybrids Prestizh F1 (5.92%), Gertsoginya F1 (5.82%), and Idillia F1 (5.28%), as well as to the late-ripening Atlant F1 (5.49%). The greatest sugar content was registered in Prestizh F1 (4.78%), Kontinent F1 (4.30%), and Gertsoginya F1 (4.07%). The mass fraction of titratable acids in terms of lactic acid averaged 1.04% for all the samples. The difference in the chemical composition depended on the hybrid and microbial count during fermentation. The lactic acid bacteria content was as high as 8.17×107 CFU/cm3 in Severyanka F1. All the samples were resistant to undesirable microflora, i.e., yeasts and molds.

All the cabbage hybrids were suitable for fermentation even after four months of storage. Their own lactic microflora was sufficient for fermentation and traditional sensory properties.
Public Catering Enterprises: Analysis and Prospects of Innovative Development
Authors: Mayurnikova Larisa , Koksharov Arkadiy , Krapiva Tatyana , Petkovich Anna , Meshkov Vladislav
Published: March 2023

Public catering has become an important healthy food provider in Russia. As a rule, this sphere is represented by small businesses with no experience in innovation. Their prospects for innovative development depend on the form of ownership, size, and target audience. The present research objective was to develop recommendations on how to restructure a public catering enterprise as part of an innovative development strategy.

The study featured public catering enterprises together with their innovative potential, activities, and factors that contribute to or hinder their development. The innovative restructuring scenarios were based on the synthesis method.

The authors developed a goal-centered classification which includes commercial and socially oriented public catering enterprises with their own advantages and disadvantages. The list of disadvantages includes decentralization, overstaffing, and multi-format, which make it difficult to introduce innovations and strategizing. The restructuring process requires a new management system optimized by specialists competent in the field of innovation, as well as a new matrix of strategic resources.

An audit of public catering enterprises makes it possible to assess their competitiveness and strategic prospects. The current lack of personnel with experience in innovations hinders the development of the industry. Universities and regional innovation infrastructure should provide public catering with specialists in innovation management.
Peptides of Trypsin Hydrolyzate in Bovine Colostrum
Authors: Tikhonov Sergey , Tikhonova Nataliya , Tursunov Khatam , Danilova Irina , Lazarev Vladimir
Published: March 2023

Bovine colostrum contains biologically active substances, e.g., immunoglobulins, peptides, and cytokines, which makes it a logical component of numerous functional products. Colostrum peptides also possess antimicrobial activity. This bioavailability increases during colostrum fermentation with proteolytic enzymes. The research objective was to describe peptides isolated from the trypsic hydrolyzate supernatant of bovine colostrum and to evaluate their antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

The supernatant of trypsin hydrolyzate of bovine colostrum was isolated by centrifugation at 3900 rpm for 7 min. The supernatant was separated by preparative chromatography. Its peptide composition was determined on a MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer, while the protein sequences were deciphered using the Mascot database. Proteins were precipitated with ammonium sulfate, and the antimicrobial activity was measured by the disk-diffusion method against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and dipoloid fungi. Strains were cultivated on a thick LB nutrient medium at 37°C. The antimicrobial activity was defined experimentally on Wistar rats infected intraperitoneally with Salmonella enteritidis 92.

The trypsin hydrolyzate supernatant of bovine colostrum revealed four peptides, one of which belonged to short peptides, while the remaining three belonged to polypeptides. The isolated peptides had different molecular weights of 8.4, 6.5, 13.0, and 18 kDa. The enzymatic hydrolyzate proved bactericidal against Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis and demonstrated antifungal activity against Candida albicans. When rats infected with S. enteritidis 92 were administered with trypsin hydrolysate, it promoted their survival, decreased LD50, and increased the mean day of death period from 2 to 4 days.

The research proved the antimicrobial effect of colostrum peptides and suggested their immunotropic properties. The peptides obtained from the trypsin hydrolyzate supernatant of bovine colostrum can be recommended for functional food industry as part of antimicrobial products.
Transformation of Apple Composition during Cider Production
Authors: Shirshova Anastasia , Ageyeva Natalia , Ulyanovskaya Elena , Chernutskaya Evgenia
Published: March 2023

Cider is obtained by fermenting mashed apples of special cider varieties. The Russian State Register of Selection Achievements includes 476 varieties of apples, some of which can be used in commercial cider production. To identify potential cider cultivars, food scientists study the transformation of chemicals in apple mash during fermentation.

The research involved 16 samples of apple mash and cider obtained from apples of foreign and domestic selection. Their physicochemical, biochemical, and sensory parameters were identified using standard methods, as well as the methods of high-performance capillary electrophoresis and gas chromatography.

The samples revealed a wide range of concentrations of titratable acids, phenolic substances, ascorbic acids, and phenolcarboxylic acids, depending on the cultivar. After fermentation, the content of ascorbic acid decreased by an average of 76%. The content of phenolcarboxylic acids in the cider samples increased by an average of 51% compared with the apple mash samples. The ciders contained succinic, oxalic, lactic, and acetic acids, which were not registered in the apple mash, and the concentration of amino acids doubled. The cider from the Virginia variety had the best sensory profile, and it also had the highest concentration of phenolic substances (1121.6 mg/dm3).

In this research, the best characteristics belonged to the ciders from apple varieties with a complex interspecific origin, obtained by a complex of polyploidy and distant hybridization methods, and with high concentrations of sugars and phenolic substances in the apple mash. Further research will test varieties of other origins and physicochemical properties for their potential use in cider, vodka, and calvados production.
The improvement of wavelet-based multilinear regression for suspended sediment load modeling by considering the physiographic characteristics of the watershed
Authors: Nejatian Niloofar , Yavary Nia Mohsen , Yousefyani Hooshyar , Shacheri Fatemeh , Yavari Nia Melika
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to model a relationship between the amount of the suspended sediment load by considering the physiographic characteristics of the Lake Urmia watershed. For this purpose, the information from different stations was used to develop the sediment estimation models. Ten physiographic characteristics were used as input parameters in the simulation process. The M5 model tree was used to select the most important features. The results showed that the four factors of annual discharge, average annual rainfall, form factor and the average elevation of the watershed were the most important parameters, and the multilinear regression models were created based on these factors. Furthermore, it was concluded that the annual discharge was the most influential parameter. Then, the stations were divided into two homogeneous classes based on the selected features. To improve the efficiency of the M5 model, the non-stationary rainfall and runoff signals were decomposed into sub-signals by the wavelet transform (WT). By this technique, the available trends of the main raw signals were eliminated. Finally, the models were developed by multilinear regressions. The model using all four factors had the best performance (DC = 0.93, RMSE = 0.03, ME = 0.05 and RE = 0.15).
Metabolome Profiling of Malignant Ascites Identifies Candidate
Metabolic Biomarkers of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Weijia , Wu Yue , Zhang Qinsheng , Cui Peilin
Published: March 2023

Background:

Malignant ascites is one of the severe complications of hepatocellular
carcinoma, which can be regarded as a unique tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular
carcinoma. The identification of novel biomarkers in malignant ascites could
be crucial to differentiate patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhotic ascites.

Objective:

The study aimed to distinguish the metabolomics of malignant ascites in patients
with hepatocellular carcinoma from that of non-malignant ascites (cirrhotic
ascites).

Methods:

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was performed to analyze the differentially
distributed biomarkers in patients with malignant ascites and hepatocellular carcinoma
(n = 39), as well as in patients with cirrhotic ascites, which were taken as controls
(n = 36).

Results:

Our results suggest that the key factors associated with pathways, such as
arachidonic acid, phenylalanine, and glutamic acid pathways, are potential ascitic fluidbased
biomarkers for differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma with cirrhosis ascites; the
results also provide a clinical pathophysiological interpretation of biomarkers and
metabolic pathways relevant to disease status.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that the key factors associated with pathways, such as
arachidonic acid, phenylalanine, and glutamic acid pathways, are potential ascitic fluidbased
biomarkers for differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma with cirrhosis ascites; the
results also provide a clinical pathophysiological interpretation of biomarkers and
metabolic pathways relevant to disease status.
Energy Harvesting Through Thermoelectric Generators
Authors: Dhass A.D. , Babu L. Ganesh , Pradhan Raghuram , Murthy G.V.K , Sreenivasan M.
Published: March 2023

Thermoelectric generator (TEG) converts waste heat energy from automobiles into valuable electrical power and has no moving parts compared to conventional thermoelectric motors. The functioning of TEG is dependent on the design and the material used. TEGs are classified as small and medium power outputs. Small power outputs are in the range between 5 μW to 1W, and high power outputs are higher than 1W in a TEG. Thermoelectric power generators offer fast, economical storage methods for wearable and mobile applications. Macro heat waste application is recovered through in-house, industrial and solid waste. Moreover, an immense amount of waste fuel, such as recycling and power plants, is emitted from the industry; this can be utilized in a useful manner by TEGs. This chapter discusses the TEG study of the fundamental operating principles, TEG products, micro applications and energy generation techniques. 