bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abkhazia in Publications by Russian Authors of the 19th Century (Part II)
Authors:   D.I. Gulia Abkhazian Institute for Research in the Humanities, Abkhazian Academy of Sciences, Avidzba Vasiliy Sh.
Published: September 2023

The article continues the review of books by the 19th century Russian authors, containing information about Abkhazia. Among the studied editions, there are books that are well-known and have widespread use in science, as well as rare ones, which have not been given due attention. The reviewed publications contain information about a physical-geographical, military-topographic, military-statistical, historical-ethnographic, linguistic and archaeological peculiarities of Abkhazia. The authors of the books were people of different professions: military men, officials, clergymen and representatives of scientific communities. The article attempts to establish the differences in the authors’ research interest in Abkhazia. In terms of their volume, the materials of the analyzed texts are various; some of them represent a section or chapter of a book, and sometimes it is a generalizing publication entirely devoted to Abkhazia. Despite the discrepancies encountered between publications in the description of the ethnic appearance of the Abkhaz people, they all contributed to the accumulation of knowledge about it, and played an important role in the formation of scientific Abkhazian Studies. Biased assessments and condemnatory characteristics given by individual authors to historical circumstances have been subjected to critical analysis.
Novo-Athos Simon-Kananite Monastery. To the Backstory
Authors:   A.M. Gorky Institute of World Literature of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Shcherbakova Marina I.
Published: September 2023

The article deals with the letters introduced into scientific circulation for the first time, relating to the prehistory of the New Athos Simono-Kananite Monastery in Abkhazia. The head of the Black Sea coastline, Baron Alexander Ivanovich Budberg, fulfilling the request of Innokenty, Archbishop of Kherson and Taurida, informed him in 1849 about the state of Christian shrines on the Black Sea coast. The letters testify to the desire of Archbishop Innokenty to revive not only in the Crimea, but also outside the peninsula, the most ancient Christian shrines, monuments of ancient Greek colonies. In this regard, the correspondents are discussing the conditions and possibilities for the restoration of the shrines of Abkhazia, their historical and archaeological research, the preparation of a project for the revival of the Pitsunda temple, the establishment of a monastery and a spiritual mission under it, the mission staff, in the choice of which is no less important than education, is the knowledge of local customs and languages, the habit of climate. This idea “could not be abandoned for its lofty and pious purpose,” but in the middle of the 19th century favorable time for the first steps of the restoration of Christianity in the Abkhazian land has not yet come.
Archpriest George Golubtsov and his “Trip to the All-Russian Church Moscow Cathedral”
Authors:   Abkhazian Institute for Humanities Research named after D.I. Gulia under the Academy of Sciences of Abkhazia, Avidzba Aslan F.
Published: September 2023

Archpriest Georgy Golubtsov — rector of the Sukhumi Cathedral, participant in the second session of the All-Russian Church Moscow Cathedral of 1917–1918. He narrates about the preparation, the trip itself and participation in the work of the Council in his diary, which describes the period from January 16/29 to April 5/18, 1918. The diary contains information about the composition and nature of the organization of the work of the Council; about the murders of major figures of the Church and the confrontation between the new Bolshevik government and the Church; about divine services in which Golubtsov took part or performed himself in Moscow; about his impressions of meetings with Patriarch Tikhon (in the course of the Council, an acquaintance and two conversations with him took place); visiting the Kremlin; at the same time, critical remarks are made on the organization and course of the Council. Golubtsov, while in Moscow, did not cease to be interested in what was happening in Abkhazia. This is evidenced, in particular, by the fact that a fairly large place in the diary entries is given to the events in Sukhum in mid-February 1918, connected with the murder of a sailor by Prince Emukhvari. The main purpose of Golubtsov’s participation in the session was to convince the Russian church hierarchs of the need to withdraw the Sukhumi diocese from the subordination of the Georgian church authorities. After the occupation of Abkhazia by the troops of the Georgian Democratic Republic, Fr. Georgy Golubtsov was expelled from Abkhazia “as an enemy of the Georgian people,” spent some time in the Crimea, and from there in 1920 emigrated with the Volunteer Army. Diary about. George became available to a wide range of readers 80 years after the events narrated in it. The author, forced to leave Abkhazia, and then Russia, took it with him, and after a while the diary ended up in one of the museums in Prague, from where it was already handed over to the Soviet government, after which it lay for a long time in the Soviet archive (now the State Archives of the Russian Federation).
The Caucasus in the Life and World Perception of L.N. Tolstoy (Generalization of the Experience of Studying the Caucasian Problems)
Authors:   Abkhazian Institute for Humanities Research named after D.I. Gulia under the Academy of Sciences of Abkhazia, Zantaria Vladimir K.
Published: September 2023

The author’s reflections on the role of the Caucasus in the life and work of L.N. Tolstoy are intertwined with an analytical review of contemporary research on this topic. The unrelenting interest of Tolstoy scholars in the difficult Caucasian period of the life and work of the classic, which is largely associated with the formation of a historical and philosophical concept and with moral quests, is noted. The diverse points of view of scientists with their polyphony actualize the value-ethical problems of a universal scale, indicated by the writer in the stories and novels “Raid,” “Cutting the Forest,” “Notes of the Marker,” “Degraded,” “Prisoner of the Caucasus,” “Cossacks,” “Hadji Murat” and others, give an additional impetus to research attention to the Caucasian artistic model of Tolstoy’s worldview. It is emphasized that the deep originality of the culture of the highlanders, the life-giving spirit and energy of Caucasian mythology, oral folk art in general, were a unique breeding ground for Tolstoy, which gave an extraordinary clarity of thoughts and feelings, the opportunity to take a different look at the surrounding reality. The assumption is supported that Tolstoy was directly or indirectly associated with prominent representatives of the Abkhaz intelligentsia.
Russian and Abkhaz Literature: Socio-Cultural Aspects of Historical Interaction
Authors:   D. I. Gulia Abkhazian Institute for Research in the Humanities, Abkhazian Academy of Sciences, Anchabadze Yuri D.
Published: September 2023

The interaction and mutual influence of Russian and Abkhazian literatures is considered as a single movement of sociogenesis, which ensures progressive development, contributes to the growth and complication of the sociocultural foundations and civilizational potential of the two peoples. A conceptual approach is substantiated that allows a broader look at the basic problems of the history of world literature, in particular Abkhaz literature, in the context of understanding its origins and initial stages of formation; an updated view of the main stages in the history of Abkhaz literature is proposed. A new projection on the history of the relationship between Russian and Abkhaz literature, the main channel of which was the Russian language, is noted. The traditions of Russian-language Abkhazian literature, represented by an outstanding constellation of brilliant masters (G. Gulia, F. Iskander, Yu. Lakerbay, D. Zantaria, D. Chachkhalia, D. Nachkebia, etc.) are analyzed. The most important role of translations is shown. The essential place of national texts in the historical interaction of literatures is emphasized. Examples of deep interpenetration of national artistic thinking and ways of its expression are given — in the forms and genres of literary works, the adequacy of translations, the emergence of national texts, personal contacts of word masters. It is convincingly shown that the interaction of cultural traditions is the key to further expansion of the volume and directions of the fruitful development of Russian and Abkhaz literature.
Alexander Shervashidze-Chachba. Sketch of Set and Costumes for Nikolay Yevreinov’s Performance “Merry Death”
Authors:   Central Exhibition Hall of the Union of Artists, Arsalia Elvira A.
Published: September 2023

The episodes of the creative history of a series of sketches of scenery and costumes by the artist A.K. Shervashidze-Chachba for the performance of Nikolai Evreinov “Merry Death” are presented. They date back to the beginning of 1919, when Shervashidze-Chachba arrived in Sukhum with his friends, director N. Evreinov and actress N. Butkovskaya. It is emphasized that this was a period of active social activity of the artist in Abkhazia — he dreamed of creating an open-air museum, educational centers, an art studio, and staging performances by N. Evreinov in Sukhum. Turning to memoirs made it possible to see a favorable combination of circumstances that gave the Sukhumi public the opportunity to see the premieres, which were held with great success. With the permission of the administration, rehearsals began, which took place from morning to evening; the work of A. Shervashidze-Chachba on the creation of sketches unfolded, the scenery was prepared in the attic of the theater with students. It is noted that the stage designer helped the director combine the Russian folk theater and the commedia dell’arte. Such an observation was made as a result of the analysis of sketches of the costumes of Harlequin, Columbine and Silent Death.
Research Mission of Baron Joseph de Bay to Abkhazia
Authors:   A.M. Gorky Institute of World Literature of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Avidzba Regina L.
Published: September 2023

The article presents an overview of the scientific activities of the French ethnographer and traveler Baron Joseph de Baie (1853—1931). A wide range of his interests is noted; perhaps the first place in it belonged to Russia, which de Baiy repeatedly visited at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. and made a great contribution to the study of the history and culture of the Russian Empire. An appeal to the epistolary heritage of de Baie reveals many details of the creative history of his works on the Caucasus. The close scientific and friendly relations of the scientist with Caucasian scholars, representatives of Russian science and culture are indicated. The circumstances of de Baie’s journey from Tiflis to the Black Sea coast, which significantly enriched the ethnographic knowledge of the scientist, are considered. As a result of de Baye’s attention to the Caucasian region, in 1903 he undertook an expedition to Abkhazia. Scientific results formed the basis of the work “In Abkhazia. Memories of the Expedition”, published in Paris in 1904 and not previously translated into Russian. De Bai’s personal observations and the unique documentary, artistic, ethnographic, geographical and historical facts he collected significantly supplemented the previously available evidence about Abkhazia in the late 19 — early 20 centuries. A significant part of the extensive heritage of the scientist is photographic materials. There are more than 500 frames made by de Baie during his travels in the Caucasus and Abkhazia.
Default risk, size, and equity returns: Evidence from an emerging stock market
Authors: Quy Duong Le , Khanh Pham Dan , Tran Manh Dung
Published: September 2023

Although the relationship among default risk, size, and equity returns is comprehensively investigated in developed stock markets, the analysis is still lacking for Vietnam, an important emerging market in Southeast Asia. The key aim of this research is to examine the relationship among default risk, size, and equity returns in the Vietnamese stock market, and compare the explanatory power of the default-risk factor to the size factor in asset pricing models. We use an option-based model to obtain the proxy of default risk for approximately 360 listed firms in Vietnam. Empirical results show that distance-to-default is negatively related to stock returns. When size is controlled, the default effect exists in different size-ranked portfolios. In asset pricing models, the default-risk factor is more powerful in explaining Vietnamese equity returns compared to the size factor of Fama and French (1993). As a result, default risk is a significant factor in Vietnamese stock returns, consistent with the risk-based point of view.
A framework for understanding climate change impacts through intra- and interspecific asymmetries in climate change responses
Authors: Coblentz Kyle , Treidel Lisa , Biagioli Francis , Fragel Christina , Johnson Allison , Thilakarathne Dinelka , Yang Liuqingqing , DeLong John
Published: September 2023

A crucial challenge in ecology is understanding and predicting
population responses to climate change. A key component of population
responses to climate change are asymmetries in which focal intra- or
interspecific rates change in response to climate change due to
non-compensatory changes in the underlying components determining the
focal rates. Asymmetric climate change responses have been documented in
a wide variety of systems and arise at multiple levels of organization
both within and across species. Yet, how these asymmetries combine to
influence the demographics of populations is often unclear, as varied
asymmetries are typically not mapped back to the fundamental demographic
asymmetry (differential changes in a species’ birth and death rates)
that underlies population and community change. Here we provide a
flexible framework that incorporates asymmetric changes in rates within
and among species and maps their consequences for additional rates
across scales to their eventual effects on population growth rates.
Throughout we provide specific example illustrations of the framework.
We hope that this framework helps to unify research on asymmetric
climate change responses, provides researchers with a common language to
discuss asymmetric responses, and enhances our ability to understand how
populations are responding to climate change.
Antioxidant activity, phytotoxicity and allelopathic potential of green walnut (Juglans regia L.) fruit extract
Authors: Saric-Krsmanovic Marija , Gajic-Umiljendic Jelena , Djordjevic Tijana , Radivojevic Ljiljana , Santric Ljiljana , Bozic Dragana , Vrbnicanin Sava
Published: September 2023

The potential allelopathic effect of a green walnut fruit extract on seed
germination and early growth of three weed species (Chenopodium album,
Amaranthus retroflexus, Daucus carota) was tested, as well as its phytotoxic
effect on seed germination and early growth of maize (Zea mays). Another
objective was to analyze the plant extract and assess its antioxidative
activity. Antioxidative activity of the plant extract was evaluated based on
its ability to neutralize DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical and
capacity for iron reduction using the FRAP method. Inhibition of the
evaluated parameters (total germination and seedling length) decreased
proportionally with decreasing concentrations of extract solution of green
walnut fruit. The parameters of seedling growth were also found to show
greater susceptibility than total seed germination of all three of the
tested weed species. Although the seed bioassay results indicated a high
inhibitory effect on germination and early growth of the tested weeds, they
also revealed phytotoxic activity during early growth of the cultivated Z.
mays.
Effect of Dupilumab on Generalized Verrucosis in Refractory Bullous Pemphigoid
Authors: Wang Qijun , Ruan Yue , Guo Fei , Zhu Haiqin , Pan Meng
Published: September 2023

Abstract is missing (Short communication)
Splink: Latest developments and applications
Authors: Lindsay Sam , Kennedy Ross , Hepworth Tom , Bond Andy
Published: September 2023

Funded by ADR UK, a new data linking team at the Ministry of Justice set out to link administrative datasets across the justice space, for internal use and sharing with external researchers. To achieve this aim we sought a linkage implementation that was probabilistic, flexible, scalable and ideally open source.

Taking into account the tools available at the MoJ, existing open-source software (and paid alternatives) failed to meet our desired criteria. It was decided to develop a software package that builds on FastLink’s implementation in R of an Expectation-Maximisation algorithm to estimate a Fellegi-Sunter linkage model, adding a range of technical improvements, increased functionality and customisation options. Distributed computing offered by Spark could facilitate comparable linkage jobs that run on much larger datasets and much faster. Working with government data, accountability and transparency are vital, so the data and models are made accessible by a range of intuitive visualizations.

The Splink python package has been downloaded over 6 million times. This initially used Spark to deliver its superior performance, but Splink v3 caters for various SQL backends and more potential users. As we have made Splink more intuitive, more accessible, and more extensively documented we continue to receive feedback and contributions from around the world, driving further continuous development.

Through technical innovation and user-focused development, Splink has improved access to cutting-edge data linkage, and created groundbreaking research opportunities at MoJ and beyond. The team is grateful to ONS and other collaborators for testing and adopting these tools, and we will present some of the latest developments as well as examples of how Splink has been used worldwide.
Ethnic differences in reading and mathematical test performance in primary schools in England
Authors: Bessudnov Alexey
Published: September 2023

ObjectivesThis study investigates ethnic differences in Key Stage 2 (KS2) reading and mathematical test scores among primary school pupils in state schools in England between 2007 and 2018. The aim is to assess the performance across ethnic categories and examine its evolution over the course of the study period.

MethodsThe analysis uses data from the National Pupil Database combining ethnicity information from school censuses with KS2 attainment data. KS2 reading and mathematical tests are taken by Year 6 pupils aged 10 to 11. Mean test scores are compared across ethnic categories, while the method of relative distribution is employed to evaluate performance in each ethnic category relative to the White British across the entire distribution of test scores in 2007 and 2018.

ResultsBetween 2007 and 2018, the reading and maths test scores of British Bangladeshi, Black African, and Pakistani pupils improved relative to the White British group. In 2018, British Bangladeshi and Black African pupils performed at a similar or slightly higher level compared to their White British peers. The advantage in test scores in the two higher performing categories, British Indian and Chinese, further increased. Attainment in the other White category remained similar to the White British group. The test scores for the Black Caribbean and Mixed White and Black Caribbean categories tended to be concentrated in the lower part of the distribution. In 2018, the proportion of mixed and non-White pupils remained largely constant throughout the reading test score distribution, while in maths, a higher proportion of mixed and non-White pupils were found among high achievers compared to other parts of the distribution.

ConclusionFrom 2007 to 2018, KS2 test performance improved relative to the White British group for some ethnic categories, while it did not for others. This paper proposes potential explanations for these differences, which are related to the volume and characteristics of immigration to England. Further empirical testing is required in future research to substantiate these explanations.
The Social Cost of Violence Against Children and Youth
Authors: Pereda Noemí
Published: September 2023

The objective of this narrative review is to analyze, through the estimates made in previous studies, the costs of medical, physical, and mental care, productivity losses, costs for the child protection system, and costs for the criminal justice system of violence against children and youth, with special emphasis on sexual violence. The reviewed studies confirm that violence in early stages of development is associated with greater use of health services and other resources, which represents a significant public investment that must be taken into account. These works have limitations that derive from the incomplete or unreliable data included regarding mortality and morbidity related to violence against children and that imply variable estimates of their costs, which in Spain range from 17 billion euros for adverse childhood experiences, to around €1 billion for sexual violence. Reliable data are needed on the costs of violence against children in order to make better-informed decisions about financial investment in its prevention and treatment, as well as to raise awareness of its scale and impact.
What We Talk About When We Talk About Psychometrics (in Spanish)
Authors: Pérez-Sánchez Jennifer , Delgado Ana R.
Published: September 2023

Understanding the meaning of the term can be approached from different perspectives, such as the consultation of dictionaries, the point of view of international experts, or the analysis of a linguistic corpus. For this study, an up-to-date Spanish corpus was used as the starting point. The sample consisted of 90 valid documents from which the first text was selected so that the frequencies of the themes came from independent texts. The method used was structured tabular thematic analysis (ST-TA). The results indicate that the most frequent meaning in Spanish is that related to the analysis of the quality of measurements, followed by that referring to evaluation, and finally that of a methodological approach in general. This is consistent with the dictionaries of authorities, but departs from the majority perspective of international experts, who consider that psychometrics does not necessarily have to be linked to psychology.
CRM: Development of Pending Critical Aspects
Authors: Segura Redondo Pilar , Muñoz Marrón Daniel
Published: September 2023

The evolution of CRM programs has meant enormous progress for aviation in terms of the study of human factors and their relationship with the reduction of air accidents. Although it is true that CRM programs have undergone a successful evolution since their appearance in 1979, it is also true that the advances in psychological science in recent decades make it necessary to review and expand on aspects already addressed in previous stages by these programs. One of these aspects is the importance of the cabin crew members (CCM) as members of the flight team. Going back to the third generation programs, this paper analyzes the actions that the CCM have taken in different air accidents, highlighting the importance of their performance and their coordination with the rest of the crew in order to achieve success in resolving the air emergency.
Complex Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder: The Discussion Goes on. Differential Diagnosis Proposal
Authors: Fernández-Guerrero María José
Published: September 2023

Following the inclusion in the ICD-11 of the diagnosis of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (c-PTSD) in 2020, there has been a succession of publications debating the relevance or lack thereof of this entity and regarding its distinction from borderline personality disorder (BPD). The present reflection article aims to: 1. understand whether c-PTSD and BPD are different entities; 2. understand the state of the art regarding this issue; and 3. propose a differential diagnosis that will help to distinguish between the two. To account for the first two questions, a qualitative (non-systematic) literature review was carried out between 2020 and 2022 (the period of validity of c-PTSD in the ICD-11). Based on the theoretical and empirical information found, and achieving the third objective, a differential diagnosis is proposed in order to shed light on the nosological distinction between the two constructs.
Digital Influencers and Congruent Content Generates Opportunities for Gifts: A Study on parent's Purchase Decisions
Authors: Galdino da Silva Júnior Omero , Costa Marconi Freitas da , Gomes Fialho Regina Gabriela , Souza Silva Adrielly
Published: September 2023

O presente artigo objetiva compreender melhor a relação entre a influência digital de usuários e a avaliação dos pares como variáveis favoráveis ao consumo de produtos. Dessa forma, foi estruturada uma pesquisa experimental com foco em analisar de que forma se dá a relação entre esses construtos. A partir de uma amostra não-probabilística por conveniência, usando a técnica snowball, participaram 89 pais de todos o Brasil nessa pesquisa. O estudo contribui com a literatura ao entender que os digital influencers podem até possuir um apelo positivo para a intenção de compra, mas ainda não se obteve correlação efetiva para a compra efetiva. Contudo, a validação desses usuários tem sido e será cada vez mais crucial para a tomada de decisão dos compradores.
O AUTOCONCEITO EM QUÍMICA DE ESTUDANTES DO ENSINO MÉDIO DE ESCOLAS DE SALVADOR: uma análise exploratória em busca de fatores preditivos
Authors: Calheiros Fernanda , Florentino de Melo Viviane , Amantes Amanda
Published: September 2023

Nesta pesquisa, realizamos um estudo exploratório sobre o Autoconceito em Química de estudantes de Salvador por meio de uma escala validada e itens adaptados do questionário socioeconômico do ENEM. O objetivo da pesquisa foi identificar fatores de contexto social, econômico, familiar, entre outros, que podem estar relacionados ao autoconceito em química. Participaram do estudo 406 alunos de ensino médio de 8 escolas, sendo 6 instituições públicas e 2 particulares. Os itens da escala estavam no formato Likert. A análise empregou um método exploratório de estudo da frequência de marcação para avaliar possíveis preditores do autoconceito. Dentre os fatores investigados, em quatro identificamos uma possível relação com o autoconceito; são eles: Escola, Gênero, Quantidade de livros não escolares em casa e Constância de leitura de livros não escolares. Nossos resultados apontam que tais /fatores possivelmente são preditores do autoconceito em química, tendo em vista a amostra analisada, mas é necessário empregar métodos de modelagem estatística para encontrar mais evidências. Por fim, ressaltamos a importância de verificar tais fatores para que seja possível pensar em estratégias para melhoria do Autoconceito em Química dos estudantes de ensino médio.
KEPRAKTISAN ENSIKLOPEDIA FAMILI RUTACEAE DI KEBUN RAYA BANUA UNTUK MELATIHKAN KETERAMPILAN BERPIKIR KRITIS MAHASISWA
Authors: Masrurah Elva , Kaspul Kaspul , Zaini Muhammad
Published: September 2023

Education is an effort to develop individual abilities and character through various processes such as guidance, teaching, training, and interaction with the environment. 21st century learning emphasizes critical thinking skills and environmental approaches related to the phrases think globally and act locally through the development of encyclopedias at Kebun Raya Banua. An encyclopedia is a type of learning resource that contains descriptions containing knowledge and is arranged (alphabetically) or according to the scientific environment by collaborating on text and images. This study aims to describe the practicality of the Rutaceae family encyclopedia at Kebun Raya Banua. The research method used is the EDR (Educational Design Research) method with Tessmer's formative evaluation design. The one-to-one test subjects were three students and the small group test subjects were four students. The object of this research is the encyclopedia of the Rutaceae family. The results of the study show that the practicality of the content is categorized as good and the practicality of expectations is categorized as very good. This shows that the encyclopedia of the rutaceae family at Kebun Raya Banua is as expected interesting and easy to use to train students' critical thinking skills (practical). Kata kunci: ensiklopedia, famili rutaceae, kepraktisan, penelitian pengembangan
PRODUKSI DAN KARAKTERISASI ECO-ENZIM DARI LIMBAH ORGANIK DAPUR
Authors: Widiani Nurhaida , Novitasari Aulia
Published: September 2023

Garbage is the main problem causing environmental problems which are dominated by organic waste. Management of organic waste must be carried out extensively, one of which is by making eco-enzymes. This study aimed to determine the production of eco-enzymes from kitchen organic waste and the characterization of eco-enzymes based on them. This type of research is an experiment with a qualitative approach. The sample used is a mixture of kitchen organic waste, namely the production and characterization of eco-enzymes which include pH, COD, BOD, TSS, and TDS. The research results obtained data on eco-enzyme production by mixing 3 components in a ratio of 1 : 3: 10 (1 part sugar, 3 parts organic kitchen waste. 10 parts water), then put into a closed container and stored in a cool, dry place, circulation air is good, and dark for 3 months. Eco-enzyme characterization showed a pH of 2.59, a TDS of 2840mg/L, a TSS of 4.46mg/L, a BOD of 60 mg/L, and a COD of 13100mg/L. Kata kunci: Produksi, Karakterisasi, Eco-enzim
More-than-human heritage: The political ecologies of the Paul Robeson tomato
Authors: Rhodes Mark Alan , Keeve Christian Brooks
Published: September 2023

Paul Robeson's global memorialization poorly represents the extent to which the famous African American activist, actor, athlete, singer, and scholar impacted international culture and politics. Robeson's memorials, while few and far between, particularly in the United States, reside primarily within college campuses and theatrical and musical productions, alongside a few more traditional plaques, works of public art, and his own work. While there has been some interest in these various memorials, commemorations, and works of Robeson, no one has yet explored one of the most widespread and historically loaded aspects of his commemoration: the Paul Robeson Tomato. This heirloom tomato, developed in the Soviet Union, has, as one seed website states, "a cult following." Reading through various gardening and seed websites, we find that the tomato has a special place among heirlooms. At the same time, the digital and print networks conveying information about the tomato and Paul Robeson silence and twist Robeson's memorialization given political, cultural, and ecological contexts. This leads us to ask a number of questions, particularly how we might understand this tomato within the broader memory and memorialization of Paul Robeson? How does this human-environment interaction of more-than-human memory impact Robeson's legacy? And how can we further think of living memory beyond human experience to the remainder of the natural landscape around us and the power it has? This project explores these notions of living memory, more-than-human, and memorialization in the context of the histories which envelop Paul Robeson and the tomato.
Scoulerine promotes cytotoxicity and attenuates stemness in ovarian cancer by targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis
Authors: Wang Fang , Zhang Yang , Pang Rui , Shi Shaohong , Wang Ran
Published: September 2023

In women, ovarian cancer is a common gynecological cancer associated with poor prognosis, reoccurrence and chemoresistance. Scoulerine, a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, has been reported effective against several carcinomas. Thus, we investigated the impact of scoulerine on ovarian cancer cells (OVCAR3). Cell viability was assessed by MTT assay, migration was determined by Boyden Chamber assay, while the invasion was monitored by Boyden Chamber assay using the matrigel. The stemness properties of OVCAR3 cells were observed by tumorsphere assay. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness-related protein markers were monitored by real-time PCR analysis and immunoblotting. Scoulerine inhibits the viability of OVCAR3 cells with the IC
50 observed at 10 µmol L–1 after 48 h treatment. Scoulerine inhibited the colony-forming ability, migration and invasiveness of OVCAR3 cells in a dose-dependent fashion. Scoulerine treatment also drastically reduced the spheroid-forming ability of OVCAR3 cells. The mesenchymal and stemness--related markers like N-cadherin, vimentin, CD-44, Oct-4, Sox-2 and Aldh1A1 were downregulated, whereas the epithelial markers like E-cadherin and CD-24 were upregulated in scoulerine-treated cells. The upstream PI3K/Akt/mTOR-axis was downregulated in scoulerine-treated cells. We concluded that scoulerine successfully perturbs the cancerous properties of OVCAR3 cells by targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis. In vivo studies revealed a substantial decrease in tumor mass and volume after scoulerine treatment. Furthermore, scoulerine treatment was found to decrease oxidative stress factors in ovarian cancer mice model. Scoulerine is a potential anticancer agent against ovarian cancer and can be considered as a lead molecule for this malignancy, provided further investigations are performed.
Xanthoxyletin blocks the RANK/RANKL signaling pathway to suppress the growth of human pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Luming , Wu Yan
Published: September 2023

Xanthoxyletin is a vital plant-derived bioactive coumarin. It has been shown to exhibit anticancer effects against different human cancers. Nonetheless, the anticancer effects of xanthoxyletin against human pancreatic cancer cells have not been evaluated. Against this backdrop, the present study was designed to evaluate the anticancer effects of xanthoxyletin in human pancreatic cancer cells and to decipher the underlying molecular mechanisms. The results revealed a significant (p < 0.05) upregulation of receptor activator of NF-kappaB (RANK), receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in human pancreatic tissues and cell lines at both transcriptional and translational levels. The administration of pancreatic cancer cells with xanthoxyletin diminished the viability of Capan-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner and led to a significant decline in RANK, RANKL, and OPG expression. Silencing of RANK and xanthoxyletin treatment declined the viability of Capan-2 pancreatic cancer cells via induction of apoptosis. However, pancreatic cancer cells overexpressing RANK could rescue the growth inhibitory effects. Collectively, xanthoxyletin targets the RANK/RANKL signaling pathway in pancreatic cancer cells to induce cell apoptosis and may prove to be an important lead molecule.
Formulation and optimization of polymeric nanoparticles loaded with riolozatrione: a promising nanoformulation with potential antiherpetic activity
Authors: Solís-Cruz Guadalupe Y. , Alvarez-Roman Rocío , Rivas-Galindo Verónica M. , Galindo-Rodríguez Sergio Arturo , Silva-Mares David A. , Marino-Martínez Iván A. , Escobar-Saucedo Magdalena , Pérez-López Luis A.
Published: September 2023

Riolozatrione (RZ) is a diterpenoid compound isolated from a dichloromethane extract of the Jatropha dioica root. This compound has been shown to possess moderate antiherpetic activity in vitro. However, because of the poor solubility of this compound in aqueous vehicles, generating a stable formulation for potential use in the treatment of infection is challenging. The aim of this work was to optimize and physio-chemically characterize Eudragit® L100-55-based polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with RZ (NPR) for in vitro antiherpetic application. The NPs formulation was initially optimized using the dichloromethane extract of J. dioica, the major component of which was RZ. The optimized NPR formulation was stable, with a size of 263 nm, polydispersity index < 0.2, the zeta potential of –37 mV, and RZ encapsulation efficiency of 89 %. The NPR showed sustained release of RZ for 48 h with release percentages of 95 and 97 % at neutral and slightly acidic pH, respectively. Regarding in vitro antiherpetic activity, the optimized NPR showed a selectivity index for HSV-1 of ≈16 and for HSV-2 of 13.
Design and synthesis of amino-substituted N-arylpiperidinyl-based inhibitors of the (immuno)proteasome
Authors: Gobec Martina , Obreza Aleš , Jukič Marko , Baumgartner Ana , Mihelčič Nja , Potočnik Špela , Virant Julija , Mlinarič Irena , Stanislav Raščan , Sosič Gobec Izidor
Published: September 2023

The constitutive proteasome and the immunoproteasome represent validated targets for pharmacological intervention in the context of various diseases, such as cancer, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. The development of novel chemical scaffolds of non-peptidic nature, capable of inhibiting different catalytically active subunits of both isoforms, is a viable approach against these diseases. Such compounds are also useful as leads for the development of biochemical probes that enable the studies of the roles of both isoforms in various biological contexts. Here, we present a ligand-based computational design of (immuno)proteasome inhibitors, which resulted in the amino-substituted N-arylpiperidine-based compounds that can inhibit different subunits of the (immuno)proteasome in the low micromolar range. The compounds represent a useful starting point for further structure-activity relationship studies that will, hopefully, lead to non-peptidic compounds that could be used in pharmacological and biochemical studies of both proteasomes.
Improving Grinding Ball Lifespan and Efficiency Through Hardenability Modelling and Optimization
Authors: Aissat Sahraoui , Safa Ali
Published: September 2023

Grinding balls are spherical or cylindrical components used in grinding and milling operations to reduce the size of particles and achieve a finer product. They are made of high chromium white cast iron (HCWCI) and used in a variety of industrial processes. The efficiency of the grinding process is heavily influenced by the properties of the grinding balls, including their composition, size, and hardness. As such, there is ongoing research and development to improve the performance and durability of grinding balls, with the aim of countering the extreme conditions of wear and impact that cause a reduction in their lifespan. This study involved austenitizing balls with diameters of 50 mm and 70 mm at temperatures of 950°C and 1050°C, followed by quenching using both oil and compressed air. By exploiting the experimental HRC hardness results obtained in this work, the study aims to find a mathematical model relating the response (hardenability) to the main effects (austenitization temperature, quenching medium, and diameter balls) and their interactions. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to establish the statistical significance parameters and an optimization of response by the best sub-models method and by the desirability function is realized in the second part of this work. It seems that the austenitization temperature and the size of the balls have a stronger impact on the hardenability of the balls than the cooling rate (quenching medium) by reducing the hardness difference between the surface and the medium of the ball to minimal values.
Effect of Rise in Temperature (250°C) on the Physico-Mechanical Properties of Rubber Mortars
Authors: Assia Aidoud , Messaouda Boutahir Born Bencheikh , Salima Boukour , Ouassila Bahloul
Published: September 2023

The recovery and use of waste in the field of civil engineering, particularly in construction materials, is one of the most prominent solutions for preserving the environment. In order to evaluate the results obtained, it is necessary to study the evolution of the properties of these new materials in the different environments where they can live or be exposed, and why not develop an effective method of treatment of such materials for the possibility of their use even in the field of precast concrete. The objective of this work is to study the effect of the increase in temperature as a living environment or as a treatment on the physico-mechanical properties of a crumbled mortar, a potential source of many environmental and economic problems. Hence the screening and the possibility of using these new mortars with sufficient physico-mechanical properties for masonry and why not for prefabrication. The formulation of the mixtures based on the substitution of dune sand by crumb rubber, at different weight contents 10, 20 and 30%. Consequently, prismatic specimens (4x4x16) cm3 subjected to the temperature (250°C), with a speed of 2°C/min followed by a one-hour plateau at the target temperature then cooling to the ambient temperature. The results obtained show that the maximum mass loss is 5% for 30% substitution and that for 10% substitution the absorption by total immersion decreased by more than two thirds and the porosity accessible to water decreased by more than half. The compressive strength increases by 8.9% for 10% substitution and the minimum decrease in tensile strength by bending is at the same substitution of an order of 26.9%. Using the analysis of variance, the influence of the substitution of dune sand by rubber crumbs and of the rise in temperature to 250°C on the behavior of the mortar acquired. Patterns developed by response surface methodology were significant for all p-value substitutions <5%. The results of the numerical optimization showed that the best mixture could obtained by replacing 30% of dune sand with rubber crumb and subjecting the hardened mortar obtained from this mixture to the temperature of 135°C.
Electrotechnical Tools and Computer Image Analysis in Assessing the Quality of Maize Grain During Storage
Authors: Szwedziak Katarzyna , Dolezal Petr , Tabor Sylwester , Ogrodniczek Jacek
Published: September 2023

The study of qualitative characteristics is becoming increasingly important due to determination of the purchase price and further use of seeds. An important problem of the modern sustainable agriculture is the production of seeds and products with appropriate quality parameters. The research carried out so far proves that the technology of harvesting, transport, and drying conditions as well as storage have an impact on the quality of seeds, determining their usefulness for the industry. The smallest irregularities can cause irreversible changes and significantly reduce the technological value of seeds and their processing products. The use of tools in the field of supporting electrical engineering enables detection and highlighting of image elements so that it becomes readable to the human eye. The aim of the research was to develop technology for evaluating grain in storage using electrotechnical tools and computer techniques.
Role of geneticin in isolation and culturing of skin melanocytes and melanoma cells
Authors: Ścieżyńska Aneta , Sobiepanek Anna , Soszyńska Marta , Łuszczyński Krzysztof , Radziszewski Marcin , Levkovych Iryna , Krześniak Natalia , Orzechowska Beata , Lutyńska Anna , Malejczyk Jacek
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Development of an effective, suitable, and reliable method for both the isolation and culturing of melanocytes is crucial for studies on pathomechanisms of skin diseases originating from melanocyte disorders. In this study, we have investigated the influence of geneticin (G418), a substance used for melanocyte selection, in the view of the frequency of presence of cells such as keratinocytes and fibroblasts, widely known as contaminators of melanocyte-originating cell cultures.

Materials and Methods

Study was conducted on primary, freshly isolated melanocytes, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and melanoma cells as well as on commercially available melanoma cell lines MeWo, G-361, and A375. Cells were cultured in different culture media supplemented with various concentrations of geneticin ranging from 0.05 to 1 mg/mL. Cell viability, proliferation rate and detection of apoptotic/necrotic cells was assessed.

Results

Choice of culture media supplemented with various concentrations of geneticin (0.05 mg/mL, 0.1 mg/mL, 0.5 mg/mL and 1 mg/mL) strongly affect viability of melanocytes, fibroblasts, and keratinocytes. Selective culture media without FBS facilitate the process of melanocytes and melanoma pure cell culture, yet without geneticin supplementation are insufficient for complete eradication of fibroblast contamination from cell culture.

Conclusions

In this study we provide, for the first time, the dose-response action of keratinocytes and fibroblasts upon geneticin stimulation in different culture media and show that a low concentration (0.05 mg/mL) of geneticin added to the selective culture media may be safely implemented to facilitate the production of melanocyte and melanoma cell cultures that are free from frequent cell contaminants.
Evaluation of Biofilm Forming Potential and Antimicrobial Resistance Profile of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa Isolated from Peripheral Venous Catheters and Urinary Catheters In Algeria, in vitro Study
Authors: Hoceini Amina , Benbaha Karima , Adoul Hafidha , Bensaber Ahlem , Tahraoui Hichem , Chelghoum Hayet , Amrane Abdeltif , Zhang Jie
Published: September 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are prominent pathogens responsible for device-associated infections that pose a significant challenge in clinical management. The biofilm-forming ability of these bacteria is a major factor contributing to treatment failures and the recurrence of infections. This study was conducted to evaluate the biofilm production potential of these bacteria isolated from urinary and peripheral venous catheters. Additionally, the study aimed to determine the antibiotic resistance pattern of biofilm producers and non-biofilm producers strains. The identification of bacteria followed conventional microbiological procedures, while the detection of biofilm production involved both qualitative and quantitative methods using Congo red agar (CRA) and Tissue Culture Plate (TCP) techniques, respectively. Antibiotic susceptibility was determined through the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Of the 22 strains of P. aeruginosa and 29 strains of S. aureus isolated from 116 Peripheral venous catheters and 20 urinary catheters, the CRA method identified 27.27% of P. aeruginosa and 24.14% of S. aureus strains as strong biofilm producers. Meanwhile, 9.09% of P. aeruginosa and 51.72% of S. aureus strains were moderate biofilm producers. The TCP method detected 9.09% of P. aeruginosa and 37.93% of S.aureus strains as strong biofilm producers, while 54.55% of P. aeruginosa and 48.28% of S. aureus strains were moderate biofilm producers. The antibiotic susceptibility test revealed that biofilm-producing bacteria were mostly more resistant to antibiotics than nonbiofilm producers. All S. aureus strains, were resistant to Penicillin (100%), but susceptible to Vancomycin (100%) and Teicoplanin (100%). All P. aeruginosa strains were susceptible to almost all groups of antibiotics, except for Ticarcillin (18.18%), Piperacillin (27.27%), Imipenem (100%), and Rifampicin (100%). Our findings showed that biofilm-producer strains exhibited high resistance rates to only some antibiotics, and emphasized the importance of seeking new strategies to prevent biofim formation and combat the emergence of antibiotic resistance.