bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 spike-Induced Syncytia with Lifeact-GFP as Biosensor Using High-Content Screening Instrument for Automated Syncytia Counting
Authors: Fauziah Dita , Septisetyani Endah Puji , Yerizel Eti , Kastian Ria Fajarwati
Published: February 2025

SARS-CoV-2 is believed to cause cytopathic effects in forming multinucleated cells, known as syncytia. Syncytia due to SARS-CoV-2 infection found in lung tissue samples of COVID-19 patients represents a case of COVID-19 with a poor prognosis. Therefore, it is very important to study the mechanism of syncytia formation and to test candidate materials that can inhibit the occurrence of syncytia and potentially be applied in the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. Since syncytia counting and analysis are time-consuming, we utilized a high-content screening (HCS) instrument in this study to automate syncytia analysis. We used 293T cells transfected with plasmids to express the SARS-CoV-2 spike, human angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (hACE-2), and a plasmid encoding lifeact-GFP as an F-actin biosensor to facilitate syncytia analysis using the HCS instrument. In this study, syncytia analysis was carried out using HCS software. The HCS application categorizes cells as multi-nuclei by counting the number of cell nuclei stained with DAPI in cells that emitted green fluorescence due to lifeact-GFP expression. Syncytia analysis is time-consuming because of the calculation of the number of syncytia formed in a confluent cell monolayer culture. Hopefully, utilizing the HCS platform can accelerate the test of syncytia inhibition after various treatments using test compounds.Keywords: 293T cells, high-content analysis, SARS-CoV-2, spike, syncytia.
Nanotechnology in Cancer Treatment: Innovative Approaches to Overcoming Drug Resistance in Tumors
Authors: Eskandar Kirolos
Published: February 2025

Nanotechnology has emerged as a groundbreaking approach in oncology, offering innovative solutions to one of the most significant challenges in cancer treatment: drug resistance. This literature review explores the role of nanotechnology in overcoming multidrug resistance (MDR) in tumors, focusing on the use of nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery, gene therapy, and immunotherapy. By penetrating biological barriers and modulating the tumor microenvironment, nanocarriers enhance the efficacy of anticancer agents while minimizing side effects. Additionally, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent clinical trials, offering insights into the real-world effectiveness of nanotechnology-based treatments. Ethical, regulatory challenges, and nanotoxicity are discussed to ensure the safe translation of nanomedicine to clinical practice. The review concludes with future directions in personalized nanomedicine, highlighting nanotechnology’s transformative potential in revolutionizing cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes by addressing the pervasive issue of drug resistance.Keywords: nanotechnology, drug resistance, nanoparticles, targeted drug delivery, cancer therapy.
Molecular Insights into Breast Cancer Treatment: An Integrated Approach of Network Pharmacology and Component Analysis for Lansium parasiticum Bark Extract
Authors: Mutiah Roihatul , Annisa Rahmi , Zahiro Syayida Roisatus
Published: February 2025

Medicinal plants containing multi-components have the potential for multi-target genes, multi-pathways, and various effects on diverse diseases. With the increasing technological advancements, understanding the complex interactions between multi-component substances and biological systems is becoming more crucial. In this context, conventional experimental research might have limitations as it typically focuses on the impact of one component on one gene. The objective of this research is to identify compounds in the bark extract of Lansium parasiticum and elucidate the molecular mechanisms of these compounds in inhibiting the progression of breast cancer cells using a network pharmacology approach. Compound identification in Lansium parasiticum bark extract (LPBE) has been conducted using Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrophotometry (LC-MS/MS) technique. ADMET predictions were utilized to determine the absorption and bioavailability profiles. A network pharmacology approach employing Cytoscape 3.9.1, GeneCards, Disgenet, STRING 2.0.0, SRplot, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) was used to predict the anti-cancer molecular mechanisms of these compounds. Seventeen active compounds have been successfully identified via LC-MS/MS. Among these, the compounds Moronic Acid, 4-Morpholineacetic Acid, and Ursolic Aldehyde were found in the highest concentrations. The results of the network pharmacology analysis indicate that the compounds in LPBE are involved in three potential pathways for breast cancer treatment: the NF-κß signaling pathway (hsa 04064), microRNA in cancer (hsa05206), and apoptosis (hsa04210). Target genes implicated in these pathways include BAX, BCL2, TNF-α, PARP1, STAT3, NOTCH1, and NF-κß1. It can be concluded that LPBE contains compounds with potential for treating breast cancer, as they are predicted to interact with relevant target pathways and genes. Therefore, further research is highly recommended, particularly in the development of drugs for breast cancer.Keywords: apoptosis, microRNA, NF-κß, TNF-α, STAT3.
Políticas educativas de la extrema derecha en Europa: ¿La conformación de una Internacional de Ultraderecha en Educación mediante una agenda común?
Authors: Díez-Gutiérrez Enrique-Javier , Jarquín-Ramírez Mauro-Rafael
Published: February 2025

Este artículo analiza las propuestas políticas en el campo de la educación de los partidos de extrema derecha en Europa, con el fin de analizar si comparten una misma agenda educativa o difieren en sus líneas estratégicas. Se han seleccionado para ello las propuestas educativas de los grupos políticos europeos de extrema derecha que han tenido representación significativa en las últimas elecciones europeas celebradas en junio de 2024. La metodología utilizada ha sido el análisis crítico del discurso (ACD) de los programas políticos y declaraciones en materia de educación de estos partidos. Los resultados muestran que el modelo educativo que defienden sigue patrones similares que se replican, con diferente énfasis en algunos aspectos, pero bajo los mismos parámetros generales que incluyen no solo recuperar planteamientos tradicionales y xenófobos, sino también la defensa de políticas educativas neoliberales radicales. Se concluye que hay una agenda política común en materia educativa, que podemos caracterizar como una Internacional de Ultraderecha en Educación (IdUE), pero que la educación pública y la política educativa, a su vez, es un espacio crucial para prevenir el auge del neofascismo y su progresiva “normalización” por parte de la sociedad, aunque se discute que no es responsabilidad exclusiva de la escuela.
Experiences of Indonesian Nurses Facing Recognition Barriers in the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Fahruddin Akhir
Published: February 2025

Background: Many Indonesian nurses working in Saudi Arabia failed to get the
professional classification from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS)
based on their educational nursing background. Purpose: This research aims to explore the
experiences of Indonesian nurses facing recognition barriers in the SCFHS policy on
nursing bachelor’s degrees obtained before 2014. Methods: A qualitative study was used
in this research with a case study approach. Data was collected through focus group
discussions with semi-structured interviews. The research subjects were 12 Indonesian
nurses as participants with inclusion criteria being nurses still active and had been
terminated from government and private hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Data analysis was
guided by Colaizzi’s method, followed by Taguette transcripts. Results: Three themes were
identified from the data analysis: perceived unfairness, professional recognition, and
classification issues. The first theme consisted of three sub-themes: disappointment, work
contract, and salary. The second theme consisted of three sub-themes: nursing background,
upgrading, and Indonesian nurses, and the third theme consisted of two sub-themes: failure
and nurse specialist. Conclusion: Indonesian nurses who obtained bachelor’s degrees in
nursing before 2014 were rejected by SCFHS in terms of professional classification
recognition. To minimize these obstacles, the Indonesian government must evaluate the
implementation of the educational nursing system that is not recognized by SCFHS, while
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia could implement the SCFHS regulatory equity for Indonesian
nurses. Implications for Nursing: The future of nurses’ careers depends on the acceptance
of the nursing education and passing the professional body policy to recognize the
professional classification.
Keywords: Indonesian nurses, Saudi Arabia, SCFHS, Health policy, Recognition barriers
European Educational Research Association Season School on Curriculum and Annual Conferences in 2024
Authors: Dvořák Dominik , Cinkraut Kamil , Donovalová Anna , Tabatadze Revaz
Published: February 2025

Conference report: European Educational Research Association Season School on Curriculum and Annual Conferences in 2024. Nicosia, Cyprus, 23rd–30th August 2024
Antifungal activity of ethanol and methanol extracts from Ageratum conyzoides L. against Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Phuong Tran Thi Thu , Trinh Nguyen Ba Khanh , Ngan Nguyen Dinh Thao , Quynh Nguyen Thi Nhu
Published: February 2025

Billygoat weed (Ageratum conyzoides L.) is generally distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. This herb not only has activity against a range of crop pests and pathogens but also boasts a rich history of traditional medicinal use across various countries worldwide. Studies of Ageratum conyzoides have provided evidence of the presence of a wide variety of phytochemicals that are capable of demonstrating its pesticidal, antimicrobial properties. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of various extracts from the billygoat weed on the antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum, a fungus that causes diseases for many crops. The billygoat weed powder was extracted with 2 solvents, ethanol and methanol at 4 concentrations (30 %, 50 %, 70 % and 90 %) and the antifungal activity of the extracts was determined by measuring the inhibition of fungal growth diameter at different extract concentrations (0 %, 1 %, 2 %, 4 % and 8 %). The results demonstrate that the E90 and M90 extracts, at a concentration of 8 %, exhibit better antifungal activity compared to the other extracts at the same concentration, with inhibition rates of 87.21 % and 89.77 % respectively. Moreover, when conducting a 2-factor ANOVA analysis, there was an interaction between solvent strength and extract solution concentration on the growth of Fusarium oxysporum. Hence, Ageratum conyzoides has the potential to be applied in the control of some harmful fungi on plants, oriented as biological pesticides.
Phenotyping and diversity assessment of Dendrobium species by using DUS guidelines
Authors: Reddy D Mahesh , Momin Kalkame ch , Bhargav V , Kumar Sunil , Singh Amit Kumar , Arun Kumar Ph
Published: February 2025

Dendrobiums are sympodial epiphytic orchids belonging to the family Orchidaceae. and have an extraordinary variation in bloom shape, size and colour. They are widely recognized for their enchanting beauty and longlasting quality. Morphological characterization of Dendrobium species was carried out using the DUS guidelines developed by the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights Authority (PPV and FRA) in New Delhi. A total of 15 Dendrobium species were characterized for 52 vegetative and floral traits. Among the 52 traits, 8 were monomorphic, 12 were dimorphic and 32 were polymorphic, indicating their potential for characterization. Principal component analysis showed 86.14% variation in the first 4 principal components with an eigenvalue >1.0. The first and second principal components explained 41.43% and 19.45% of the total variation respectively. The dendrogram produced by a Ward analysis validated the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) findings. The Dendrobium species were grouped into 2 major clusters with three sub-clusters based on the correlation between the morphological traits among the species. Characterization established distinctiveness amongst the Dendrobium species. Breeders/farmers can use this study to distinguish between different species and apply for protection through the PPV and FR Authority, New Delhi. The trait-specific data generated while characterizing can be used to develop new inter-specific hybrids, which are common in orchids.
A comprehensive review of farmers producer organizations in India: Historical evolution, current status and future policy challenges
Authors: Yazhini A , Malaisamy A , Rani S P , Ramakrishnan K , Prabakaran K , Arunachalam P
Published: February 2025

Agriculture plays an important role in India but faces various challenges. A large number of farmers in India have small and marginal holdings of less than two hectares, which is linked to the increasing fragmentation of land. Many institutional policies aim to improve the farmer’s livelihoods to mitigate the disadvantages of land fragmentation. These measures include the formation of Primary Agricultural Cooperative Society (PACS), Self-Help Group (SHG), Joint Liability Group (JLG) and Common Interest Group (CIG). However, there are limitations to these initiatives, as they often provide considerably more managerial control and influence to local powerful individual. In response, Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs) have emerged as pivotal entities aimed at integrating smallholders into mainstream markets. India has over 10,000 FPOs, benefiting 4 million farmers and increasing income by 20-25%. But 70% face sustainability challenges. Policy initiatives, such as NABARD’s Rs.6,865 crore schemes, an aim to address these issues. This paper considered the Scopus database using the Boolean keyword "Farmer" AND "Producer organization" and identified articles were shortlisted after screening using PRISMA framework. While previous studies have offered insights into various aspects of FPOs, there remains a significant lack of cohesive analysis integrating historical trends, current challenges and future policy directions. This study identifies key factors influencing FPO system, including governance mechanisms, market linkages and capacity-building initiatives. The review highlights current challenges and opportunities within the FPO system, suggesting policy recommendations for future development. The findings offer valuable insights into the transformative potential of FPOs and inform strategic policy recommendations to ensure their sustainability in India's agricultural sector.
Relative toxicity of subspecies of Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki HD-1 and HD-73 against the larvae of legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata, F. (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)
Authors: Vijayakumari N , Shanthi M , Anusha N , Murugan M , Paripoorani S , Varanavasiappan S , Jayakanthan M , Gracy R G , Mohan M
Published: February 2025

The legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata F. (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is a major insect pest of many edible legumes in various regions of America, Asia and Africa. The larvae cause serious damage to the reproductive parts of cowpea, pigeon pea and beans in India. Promotion and use of biopesticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is viewed as a viable alternative to synthetic pesticides. In this study, field populations of M. vitrata were collected from intensive legume-growing regions of India during years 2023 and 2024. A commercial formulation, Bt sub.sp. kurstaki HD-1 (Delfin®), along with reference strains of Bt sub.sp. kurstaki HD-1 and HD-73 were tested on the larvae of different M. vitrata populations collected across India to evaluate their relative effectiveness. The LC50 values ??estimated for Bt kurstaki HD-1 and Bt kurstaki HD-73 strains and a commercial formulation of Bt kurstaki HD-1 (Delfin®) against different field-collected populations of M. vitrata ranged from 1.097 to 1.829 ppm, 6.228 to 7.236 ppm and 2.894 to 4.930 ppm, respectively. The Bt kurstaki HD-1 strain harbouring multiple crystal proteins (Cry1Aa, Cry1Ab, Cry1Ac, Cry2A, Cry2B) were relatively more toxic to the larvae of M. vitrata than Bt kurstaki HD-73 which harbours a single Cry toxin i.e., Cry1Ac.
Life as Paradigm of Knowledge. What Use of Hegel in the Age of the Environmental Crisis?
Authors: Achella Stefania
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to show to what extent the normativity of organic life that emerged from the natural sciences of Hegel’s time influenced the structuring of his speculative approach. In the first part, the eighteenth-century paradigm shift in the natural sciences is investigated as marking the transition from a physics-based worldview to a biology-based one. This shift argues strongly against the reduction of nature to mechanism and provides an adequate model for analysing the functioning of all other complex systems and, above all, the functioning of reason. In the second part, the consequences of such a shift are evaluated with respect to Hegel’s idealism, especially in relation to the categories of organism and purpose. They are the core elements for understanding not only the mode of living but also that of thinking. In the last part, we identify Hegel’s philosophy as a “living ontology,” an ontology that keeps pace with reality by modifying its categories accordingly. From this point of view, Hegel’s idealism can be compatible with a new idea of the relationship between human beings and the environment, in the direction of a relational ontology. The paper then focuses on the legacy of this re-reading of Hegel’s philosophy in the contemporary debate on ecological thinking that attempts to answer the question raised in the discussion on the environmental crisis and Anthropocene.
Is a Contemporary Hegelian Philosophy of Nature Possible?
Authors: Arredondo Xavier Aranda
Published: February 2025

Hegel’s philosophy of nature (Naturphilosophie) is impossible to separate from the rest of his system, in which nature is shown as a reflection of the idea (Idee) as presented in the logic (in the Enzyklopädie der philosophischen Wissenschaften). The system composed by logic, nature, and spirit, represents a dialectical relation in which logic as the universal, nature as the particular, and spirit as the singular, mediate through one another and develop as immanent and constitutive parts of the system as a whole. Yet, the goal of the philosophy of nature is not unrelated to a philosophy of science in the contemporary sense. The latter aims to solve (among other problems) the problem of dualism between the conceptual scheme/the world and the demarcation of science (and knowledge), where the crucial difference is that the Hegelian philosophy of nature benefits from having an answer to these in the form of the absolute idea (die absolute Idee). In a contemporary sense, the constitution of these problematics would follow an abductive reasoning where the Hegelian idea (Idee) would solve these crucial problems for philosophy of science. The following paper will attempt to provide some guiding points for such a project and suggest the assumptions necessary for its development, with the sole purpose of underscoring the similarities and differences between the Hegelian philosophy of nature and a contemporary philosophy of science.
Correlation properties and respiratory frequency of ECG‐derived heart rate variability during multiple race‐pace running intervals in female and male long‐distance runners
Authors: Gronwald Thomas , Schaffarczyk Marcelle , Fohrmann Dominik , Hoos Olaf , Hollander Karsten
Published: February 2025

Aim was to evaluate alterations of the non‐linear short‐term scaling exponent alpha1 of detrended fluctuation analysis (DFAa1) of heart rate (HR) variability (HRV) as a sensitive marker for assessing global physiological demands during multiple running intervals. As a secondary analysis, agreement of ECG‐derived respiratory frequency (EDR) compared to respiratory frequency (RF) derived from the metabolic cart was evaluated with the same chest belt device. Fifteen trained female and male long‐distance runners completed four running bouts over 5 min on a treadmill at marathon pace. During the last 3 min of each bout gas exchange data and a single‐channel ECG for the determination of HR, DFAa1 of HRV, EDR and RF were analyzed. Additionally, blood lactate concentration (BLC) was determined and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was requested. DFAa1, oxygen consumption, BLC, and RPE showed stable behaviors comparing the running intervals. Only HR (p < 0.001, d = 0.17) and RF (p = 0.012, d = 0.20) indicated slight increases with small effect sizes. In addition, results point towards inter‐individual differences in all internal load metrics. The comparison of EDR with RF during running revealed high correlations (r = 0.80, p < 0.001, ICC3,1 = 0.87) and low mean differences (1.8 ± 4.4 breaths/min), but rather large limits of agreement with 10.4 to −6.8 breaths/min. Results show the necessity of EDR methodology improvement before being used in a wide range of individuals and sports applications. Relationship of DFAa1 to other internal load metrics, including RF, in quasi‐steady‐state conditions bears the potential for further evaluation of exercise prescription and may enlighten decoupling mechanisms during prolonged exercise bouts.
Impact of two different periodized aerobic training on acute cerebrovascular response and cognitive performance in coronary heart disease patients
Authors: Bérubé Béatrice , Boidin Maxime , Gayda Mathieu , Vincent Thomas , Tremblay Jonathan , Juneau Martin , Nigam Anil , Karelis Antony D. , Bherer Louis
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to measure the effects of chronic and acute aerobic exercise at two different intensities on cognitive performance and cerebrovascular response in coronary heart disease (CHD) patients. Thirty‐five CHD patients completed two exercise bouts at 30% and 70% of their respective peak aerobic power on an ergocycle while performing cognitive tasks, which included nonexecutive and executive conditions before and after a 3‐month training intervention. Variations of oxy‐ deoxy‐ and total hemoglobin concentrations were measured on the left prefrontal cortex at both intensities using near‐infrared spectroscopy. Aerobic exercise training consisted of linear and nonlinear periodization protocols for three sessions of 30–50 min per week for 12 weeks. Error rate (p < 0.001) and reaction time (p < 0.001) improved after the training program for the executive condition of the cognitive task, regardless of intensity and training groups. Cerebral oxygenation remained similar pre and post intervention for all conditions and acute exercise intensity. Despite the absence of conjunction between cerebral oxygenation and cognition, results suggest that both exercise training programs could improve cognition in CHD patients during acute exercise.
Vitamin D and its relationship to performance and health during a competitive period in elite women's basketball and volleyball players
Authors: Miguel‐Ortega Álvaro , Calleja‐González Julio , Mielgo‐Ayuso Juan
Published: February 2025

Vitamin D [25(OH)D] is a key nutrient, although its level is often low in the general population. To investigate the relationship between vitamin D levels and muscle performance, and to analyze how vitamin D changes during a 16‐week competitive season and its relationship to the performance tests performed. Participant characteristics: age 25.1 ± 4.7 years; height 1.8 ± 0.1 m, and body mass 73.9 ± 15.4 kg. Vitamin D levels (ng/mL) were at T1 (September): 33.7 ± 14.7 (n = 23), and at T2 (January): 26.1 ± 7.3 (n = 23). Over 16 weeks of competition, participants' blood was analyzed to determine their vitamin D levels. Their athletic abilities were evaluated through various tests: vertical jumps (standing jump and countermovement jump); 20‐m sprint without direction changes; and intermittent endurance test; the vitamin D level decreased from T1 to T2 by −22. 40% [p < 0.05] but performance improved in all tests performed (SJ: 4.57%; CMJ: 6.94%; VO2max: 4.99% [p < 0.05]; 20 m: −1.83%). There is a relationship between vitamin D levels and physical performance in female indoor athletes. The results suggest that increased training load may also negatively affect vitamin D levels in elite female indoor athletes.
The Evolution of Law and Economics in Korea
Authors: Kim Jeong-Yoo
Published: February 2025

Law and economics was formally introduced to South Korea in the mid-1980s. It was adopted relatively quickly compared to other Asian countries, and both research and education have been actively pursued. As a result, the Korean Law and Economics Association was founded in 2002, promoting research within the country, and many Korean scholars played a significant role in the establishment and development of the Asian Law and Economics Association, founded in 2005. The growth of the law and economics community in Korea can be attributed to the efforts of many pioneering scholars, as well as the smooth interaction between economics and law within academia and practice. To ensure the continued development of this field, it is essential to enhance understanding between economics and law and to sustain efforts to attract new scholars.
Preliminary analysis of the role of small hepatitis B surface proteins mutations in the pathogenesis of occult hepatitis B infection via the endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced UPR-ERAD pathway
Authors: Huang Chengrong , Zhang Hao , Wang Jing , Li Jianfei , Liu Qian , Zong Qiyin , Zhang Yunyun , Wang Qin , Zhou Qiang
Published: February 2025

A growing body of evidence has shown that hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) mutations can influence the occurrence of occult hepatitis B infection (OBI), particularly amino acid substitutions in small hepatitis B surface proteins (SHBs). The mechanistic basis for these results, however, remains unclear. This study was designed to explore the potential impact and mechanisms of OBI-related SHBs mutations on serum HBsAg. Huh7 and HepG2 cells were transfected with plasmids encoding wild-type (WT) or OBI-related SHB mutation-containing sequences, after which a chemiluminescence approach was used to detect HBsAg levels in cell culture supernatants. Western blotting was further used to assess HBsAg and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-related protein levels in lysates prepared from these cells, while the localization of HBsAg within cells was assessed via immunofluorescent staining. Cells transfected with OBI-related SHB mutation-encoding plasmids exhibited lower supernatant HBsAg levels than cells transfected with WT plasmids. Intracellular and extracellular HBsAg levels in these mutant plasmid-transfected cells were lower relative to those for WT plasmid-transfected cells, and HBsAg accumulation within the ER was detected via immunofluorescent staining in cells transfected with OBI-related SHB mutation-encoding plasmids, ERS-related protein content was also significantly increased in mutant plasmid-transfected cells as compared to those in the WT group. These results suggest that proteins harboring OBI-related mutations may tend to accumulate in the ER, thereby triggering an ERS response and impairing the transcription and translation of HBsAg via the activation of the unfolded protein response and ER-associated protein degradation pathway. These effects ultimately reduce the overall assembly of HBV virions in the ER and their associated secretion.
Paraloratospora edkuensis sp. nov. (Ascomycota, Phaeosphaeriaceae) from the brackish Lake Edku, Egypt
Authors: Bakhit Mahmoud S. , Abdel-Wahab Mohamed A.
Published: February 2025

In this study, we introduce a novel saprobic taxon Paraloratospora edkuensis, from a decaying stem of Phragmites australis collected at Lake Edku, El-Behera Governorate, Egypt. Multi-locus analyses of the combined ITS (internal transcribed spacers of rDNA), LSU (nuclear large subunit rDNA) and tef1-α (translation elongation factor) sequence data placed the new taxon within Paraloratospora as a phylogenetically distinct species in a clade containing two aquatic species P. fructigena and P. marina. The new species is characterized by having globose to subglobose, dark brown to black ascomata with a short neck, 4–8-spored, cylindrical to obclavate asci, and 3-septate, hyaline and fusiform ascospores. Paraloratospora edkuensis differs from P. fructigena and P. marina by having smaller ascomata with a single neck, asci with four or eight ascospores, different mycelial colony morphology, and nucleotide differences of 2.1–3 %, 0.6–1.4 %, and 1.3–6.9 % in the ITS, LSU and tef1-α genes, respectively.
Inclusion of pyridoxine dependent epilepsy in expanded newborn screening programs by tandem mass spectrometry: set up of first and second tier tests
Authors: Damiano Roberta , Della Bona Maria , Procopio Elena , Guerrini Renzo , Bettiol Alessandra , la Marca Giancarlo
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy (PDE) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by intractable neonatal seizures responsive to pyridoxine. Diagnosis relies on quantification of α-aminoadipic semialdehyde, piperideine-6-carboxylate and pipecolic acid in urine or plasma in patients with overt symptoms. We developed and validated simple and rapid first- and second-tier methods for two recently published biomarkers of PDE (2S,6S-/2S,6R-oxopropylpiperidine-2-carboxylic acid (2-OPP) and 6-oxopiperidine-2-carboxylic acid (6-oxoPIP)) in extended newborn screening (NBS) programs from neonatal dried blood spots (DBS).

Methods

For the first-line test, DBS specimens were collected from 5,405 newborns who underwent routine NBS and analysed by FIA-MS/MS. For the second-tier test, samples were analysed by LC-MS/MS. The neonatal DBS from two patients with genetically confirmed PDE were also analysed.

Results

The reference values for NBS resulted <0.34 μmol/L for 2-OPP and <4.51 μmol/L for 6-oxoPIP. In the second-tier test, limits of detection were 0.07 μmol/L and 0.14 μmol/L, whereas limits of quantification were 0.25 μmol/L and 0.48 μmol/L, respectively, for 2-OPP and for 6-oxoPIP. The tests provided good linearity, reproducibility, accuracy and precision, with acceptable matrix effect and carry-over, according to international validation criteria. The biomarkers in DBS were stable at room temperature, +4 °C and −20 °C for one month. When assessing these biomarkers in two patients with genetically confirmed PDE, the higher sensitivity of 2-OPP as compared to 6-oxoPIP in discriminating PDE emerged.

Conclusions

The first-line and second-tier tests developed in this study highlight the potential for including PDE in the NBS panel, early diagnosis and prompt precision treatment initiation.
Generative künstliche Intelligenz im Innovationsmanagement: Potenziale und Herausforderungen
Authors: Keicher Lukas , Spitzley Anne , Ardilio Antonino , Arnold Maike
Published: February 2025

Generative künstliche Intelligenz (GenAI) hat das Potenzial, die Wissensarbeit und damit das Innovationsmanagement zu revolutionieren. Um die erwarteten Veränderungen beschreiben zu können, wurde eine umfassende Befragung unter Expertinnen und Experten aus der Industrie und Forschung durchgeführt. Viele der Befragten sehen derzeit keine relevante Rolle von GenAI im Innovationsmanagement. Die Befragungsergebnisse deuten darauf hin, dass mehr und mehr Aufgaben von GenAI übernommen werden könnten, denn es wird ein hohes bis sehr hohes Unterstützungspotenzial durch GenAI in allen Phasen des Innovationsprozesses erwartet. Gleichzeitig werden aktuell auch Herausforderungen beim Einsatz von GenAI im Innovationsmanagement gesehen. Es ist davon auszugehen, dass einige dieser Hindernisse durch den technologischen Fortschritt überwunden werden. Empfehlenswert für Unternehmen ist daher, proaktiv GenAI-Fähigkeiten zu entwickeln, um frühzeitig die Komplexität der Technologie zu verstehen und die sich bietenden Chancen zu nutzen. Aufgrund der begrenzten Anzahl an Teilnehmenden und deren zufälligen Auswahl ist die Studie nicht repräsentativ. Dennoch liefern die Ergebnisse Ansatzpunkte für weitere Forschungen. So stellen z. B. Vergleiche der erwarteten Potenziale und Herausforderungen des Einsatzes von GenAI im Innovationsmanagement zwischen Weltregionen oder longitudinale Erhebungen zu tatsächlich eintretenden Veränderungen relevante Forschungsansätze dar.
Performance analysis of VLC-based underwater optical communication using polarization division multiplexing and advanced modulation techniques
Authors: Sharma Abhishek
Published: February 2025

Underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) has emerged as a promising solution for high-speed, low-latency communication in underwater environments. This study investigates the performance of a visible light communication (VLC)-based UWOC system incorporating polarization division multiplexing (PDM) and advanced modulation schemes, including non-return-to-zero (NRZ) and return-to-zero (RZ). The system, utilizing red, green, and blue (RGB) wavelengths, was evaluated under three distinct environmental conditions: Pure Sea, Clear Ocean, and Coastal Ocean, each characterized by varying levels of attenuation due to differences in scattering and absorption coefficients. Through comprehensive simulations, key performance metrics such as bit error rate (BER), transmission range, and eye patterns were analyzed. Results reveal that RZ modulation consistently outperformed NRZ, providing superior signal clarity and lower BER across all conditions. Among the wavelengths, blue light demonstrated the best performance due to its lower susceptibility to attenuation, making it ideal for high-speed communication. These findings contribute to the development of robust UWOC systems for applications in environmental monitoring, underwater exploration, and autonomous vehicle communication.
Adhered macrophages as an additional marker of cardiomyocyte injury in biopsies of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Warmusz Oliwia , Badziński Arkadiusz , Reichman-Warmusz Edyta , Dudek Damian , Wojnicz Romuald
Published: February 2025

Background

Macrophage accumulation found in biopsy specimens of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) has been thought to reflect chronic myocarditis. However, it is unsettled whether they are responsible for the active or persistent phase of the disease.

Objective

The aim of this study was to count the number of macrophages in relation to plasma concentrations of cardiac troponin T (cTnT).

Methods

We studied the biopsies of 181 patients with DCM by immunohistochemistry using anti-CD68(+) antibodies. The total number of CD68(+) and the number of CD68(+) cells attached to injured cardiomyocytes were counted and presented as the number of cells/mm2.

Results

Two expression patterns of CD68(+) macrophages were observed: those localized freely in the interstitial space only, and the cells attached to injured cardiomyocytes. As regards macrophages adhered to injured cardiomyocytes, 72 out of 181 (39.8%) patients presented these cells in the biopsy sections. Both the total number of CD68(+) macrophages and the number of CD68(+) cells directly adhered correlated negatively with cTnT in the serum of DCM patients (Spearman’s rho, r = −0.45, P < 0.001 and r = −0.31, P = 0.009, respectively).

Conclusion

Macrophages attached to injured cardiomyocytes may reflect chronic (ongoing) inflammation in the myocardium.
Mechanical characterization of sandwich composite structures with Alumix231 foam core between Al2024/B4C composite plates
Authors: Saygılı Betül , Albayrak Sevda , Karakoç Halil , Çinici Hanifi , Çıtak Ramazan
Published: February 2025

The study investigates the production of lightweight B4C particle-reinforced aluminum sandwich foam (ASF) materials, crucial for high impact and corrosion resistance, particularly in defense and automotive sectors. These materials are manufactured via powder metallurgy. Five different combinations of ASF materials, layered and unlayered with B4C, were examined. Alumix231 served as the primary material in the Al foam, with TiH2 as the blowing agent. In layered ASF materials, Al2024 powder acted as the main material, reinforced by B4C particles. Samples with various configurations, including foam, foam/Al2024 layers, and 5-10–20 % B4C particle-reinforced Al2024 layers, were produced. After powder mixing, they were filled into a hot pressing mold, pre-pressed at 25 MPa, dwelled at 550 °C for 30 min, then hot pressed at 200 MPa to form foamable preform material. B4C particle-layered ASF materials were generated by foaming the preforms in a steel mold at 750 °C for 11 min. Microstructure, density, pore size, and morphology analyses were conducted. Al2024 exhibited the highest density at 99 %, decreasing with increased B4C ratio. With more B4C, compressibility decreased, and agglomeration increased. Pores were observed around TiH2 and Si particles in B4C-lacking materials. The material with the best homogeneity and spherical pore resemblance was noted as Alumix231.
Phase-amplitude coupling during auditory steady-state stimulation: a methodological review
Authors: Mockevičius Aurimas , Griškova-Bulanova Inga
Published: February 2025

Auditory steady-state response (ASSR) is a robust method to probe gamma (>30 Hz) activity in a controlled manner. While typically the magnitude and the phase synchronization over stimulus repetitions of ASSR is assessed, other measures are being investigated. One of them is phase-amplitude coupling (PAC), which reflects the interactions between lower frequency phase and higher frequency amplitude. Considering that the number of studies assessing PAC during auditory steady-state stimulation has grown recently, in the present work, we aimed to perform a comprehensive overview of PAC methodological approaches in ASSR studies. We sought to evaluate the studies according to PAC analysis issues emphasized in empirical and theoretical PAC studies. Our work showed considerable variability in the methodology among the reviewed studies. Furthermore, the reviewed works address methodological issues and confounding factors of PAC relatively poorly and are characterized by insufficient descriptions of the applied approaches. Our review shows that systematic research of PAC in the context of ASSR is imperative in order to properly evaluate the presence of PAC during the auditory steady-state stimulation.
Les IA génératives visuelles entre perception d’archives et circuits de composition
Authors: D’Armenio Enzo
Published: February 2025

Cet article aborde les intelligences artificielles génératives visuelles telles que Midjourney et DALL·E afin d’analyser leur fonctionnement sémiotique. Le point de départ est la définition de la discipline sémiotique proposée par Pierluigi Basso Fossali, décrivant celle-ci comme la science qui étudie la gestion sociale du sens, et qui s’articule en quatre sphères fondamentales : la perception, l’énonciation, la communication et la transmission. À partir de ce cadre théorique, l’objectif est de proposer et de décrire deux nouvelles configurations qui caractérisent le fonctionnent sémiotique des IA génératives visuelles : à travers une perception d’archives et grâce à des circuits de composition. Le concept de perception d’archives a pour objectif de décrire la manière particulière dont les IA voient, entendent et apprennent, celle-ci étant réalisée sur de grandes quantités de données et à travers une généalogie d’opérations reconfigurables sur les archives. Les circuits de composition, quant à eux, concernent le couplage entre la logique de la composition visuelle et de la prédication verbale : il s’agit du processus d’énonciation par débruitage visuel réalisé par les IA, guidé par les requêtes en langage naturel fournies par des opérateurs humains. À partir de trois critères élaborés en sémiotique – les catégories plastiques, l’énonciation visuelle, ainsi que la traduction intersémiotique entre textes verbaux et images – une série de tests seront proposés afin d’examiner les circuits de composition des modèles génératifs de Midjourney et de DALL·E. Les IA seront enfin définies en tant que machines co-énonçantes : des entités dépourvues d’intentionnalité et d’initiative, qui produisent pourtant des énoncés en collaboration avec un opérateur humain et sur la base d’archives de données hautement structurées et reconfigurables.
From Time to Time: Time Routes and Temporal Fragments in Representations of the Eastern Adriatic
Authors: Oroz Tomislav
Published: February 2025

This paper problematizes, from an ethnographic perspective, the temporal aspects of Eastern Adriatic travelogues published in the first half of the 20th century. By employing the concept of ‘time routes,’ the author analyzes diverse temporal fragments emerging along the itineraries of travel writers such as Maude Holbach, Alice Lee Moqué, Frances Kinsley Hutchinson, and Rebecca West. Their descriptions of local cultures and specific locations in the Eastern Adriatic open a debate about the shifting boundaries between the West and the East and between the past, present, and future. Furthermore, the predominantly spatial aspect of travelogues is supplemented by an analysis of diverse non-linear temporal modalities and phenomena, such as anticipation, expectations, idleness, boredom, timelessness, and waiting. The paper explores the spatiotemporally fluid nature of ‘time routes’ in representations of the Eastern Adriatic and how they discursively constitute heterogeneous temporal regimes and practices. The emergence of diverse temporal modalities is examined within the broader, at times overlapping, context of the Mediterranean and Southeastern European regions, raising the question of how Western ideas of linear progress are entangled with processes of temporal othering.
Transformation and Effects of Human Rights Protection on Determining Corruption Suspects as a Pretrial Object under the Indonesian Criminal Justice System
Authors: Suastuti Eny , Haq Lalu Muhammad Hayyanul , Harimurti Yudi Widagdo , Yuherawan Deni Setya Bagus
Published: February 2025

This study explores the transformation of human rights understanding and legal enforcement within the Indonesian criminal justice system, focusing on expanding the scope of pre-trial elements. The debate centers around balancing citizens' rights to protection with the public’s demand for legal certainty under the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP). This research presents a coherent approach to address this dilemma, aiming to establish legal certainty and justice in line with Article 28 of Indonesia’s 1945 Constitution. The central legal issue is the lack of clarity and certainty in the determination of suspects, particularly in corruption cases, due to legal gaps in the Indonesian Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP). This uncertainty prevents victim compensation and rehabilitation, making it impossible for victims to seek legal redress. The study argues for a review of Law No. 8 of 1981 to strengthen victim protection in such cases. Findings reveal the crucial role of human rights in reforming pre-trial procedures, notably the inclusion of suspect determination as a pre-trial element under Constitutional Court Decision No. 21/PUU-XII/2014. This shift ensures that suspects’ rights are safeguarded, especially in corruption cases, aligning with Indonesia's obligation to uphold human rights and minimize unjust detentions. The study’s contribution extends to both national and global contexts, offering insights into the importance of legal reforms that safeguard human rights while ensuring justice and legal certainty. It recommends that the government implement legal measures to provide compensation and rehabilitation for victims of wrongful corruption suspect determinations.
IGF2BP1 stabilizes Akt2 mRNA to promote glucose metabolism and maintain spermatogonial proliferation
Authors: Liu Yanan , Chen Yuanyuan , Fan Jiahui , Min Ziqian , Liu Xiaowen , Mao Zenghui , Chen Anji , Liu Min , Xia Rong , Yang Lifang , Li Dan
Published: February 2025

Insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 1 (IGF2BP1), as a newly identified N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation reader, plays a key role in mRNA stability, alternative splicing, and translation. However, the function of IGF2BP1 and its target genes in the development of male germ cells remains unclear. In the present study, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and other cellular methods were used to confirm whether IGF2BP1 is expressed throughout the male germline with high abundance in spermatogonia of mice, and whether its downregulation inhibits spermatogonia proliferation in vitro. Through RNA sequencing, dual luciferase reporter assays, RIP-qPCR, and mRNA stability experiments, it was identified that Akt2 is one of the target genes of IGF2BP1. By stabilizing Akt2 mRNA in an m6A-dependent manner, IGF2BP1 maintains spermatogonial proliferation. Furthermore, co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry analyses revealed that PABPC1, DDX5, and FXR1 interact with IGF2BP1, and that the interaction between IGF2BP1 and PABPC1 promotes AKT2 expression. Finally, following the knockdown of both IGF2BP1 and AKT2, glucose and ATP levels in C18-4 and GC-1 spermatogonia cells were found to be reduced, indicating that IGF2BP1 regulates glucose metabolism homeostasis by stabilizing Akt2 expression, thereby influencing spermatogonia proliferation. Additionally, analysis of the cryptorchidism database from NCBI revealed that the expression of IGF2BP1 and AKT2 is significantly downregulated in cryptorchid patients with oligospermia or azoospermia. In conclusion, our study elucidates the role and underlying mechanism of IGF2BP1 in spermatogonia, providing a candidate target for male infertility.
Drosophila AK-3, a homologue of human CKMT1B, is essential for spermiogenesis
Authors: Chen Meng-Yan , Zhao Qian , Wang Ying-Ying , Ren Yue , Cao Zhi-Xian , Mao Bin , Wang Hao-Lin , Wang Yu-Feng
Published: February 2025

Spermatogenesis is a conserved process across animals, involving in proliferation and maintenance of germ stem cells, haploid spermatid production via meiosis, generation of mature sperm with unique shapes. Our previous studies revealed that after ocnus (ocn) knockdown in germlines, the male flies Drosophila melanogaster were sterile, and the expression levels of many proteins were significantly changed. Among these proteins, CG4546 (arginine kinase 3, AK-3) displayed drastically downregulated, implying its crucial role in fly spermatogenesis. Here, we demonstrate that AK-3 was highly expressed in Drosophila testes. Knockdown of the AK-3 in testes leads to scattered nuclear bundles, loss of the central paired microtubule in the flagellar axoneme, disrupted individualization complexes (ICs), lack of mature sperm in seminal vesicles, and thus resulting in male complete infertility. Notably, Drosophila AK-3 shares homology with human CKMT1B. Expression of human CKMT1B can rescue the defects in late spermatogenesis and male sterility caused by AK-3 knockdown in flies, indicating that this gene is evolutionarily and functionally conserved. These results suggest that AK-3 contributes to the regulation of spermiogenesis, especially the assembly and stabilizing of the axonemal microtubules during the sperm elongation. These data substantiate the importance of arginine kinase during spermatogenesis and its evolutionary conservation, and might provide fundamental information for studying the function of CKMT1B in male fertility in humans.