bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heavy metal content of mountainous agricultural soils and ecological risk assessment in Gadabay district, Azerbaijan
Authors: Sadig Mehmana
Published: April 2024

Objective: The objective of this study was to i) investigate the distribution characteristics of heavy metals, ii) examine their relationships with basic soil properties, and iii) characterize their potential sources and ecological risks.
Material and Methods: A total of 85 samples were collected from the surface horizon (0-15 cm) of Chernozem soil in a representative agricultural area located in the Lesser Caucasus Mountains (Gadabay district), and heavy metal contents and basic soil properties were determined.
Results: The mean of the heavy metals followed a decreasing order: Mn>Zn>Cu>Cr>Ni>Co>Pb>As>Se>Cd and some heavy metals (As, Cd, Se) exhibited a fragmented distribution. Co, Cr, Mn, Se and Zn contents were higher than the background concentration, while others (As, Cd, Co, Cu, Pb and Zn) exceeded the maximum permissible concentration.
Conclusion: The spatial distribution of heavy metals was characterized by their typical and element-specific distribution. The noted variability was likely related to geologic features (soil mineralogy), mining history and agricultural practices. Notably, the presence of limestone and clay minerals contributed to the association of Cd, Cu and Se and Mn and Pb, respectively. Sand content influenced the mobility of Cr and Cu. The relations between pH and Cr, Ni and Se was the indication of the influence of the parent material on the distribution of these metals.
Karbon ayak izi ve yeşil organizasyon kavramlarına yönelik bibliyometrik araştırmalar
Authors: Durmuş İbrahim , Gücüyeter İlknur
Published: April 2024

Amaç: Karbon ayak izi ve yeşil organizasyon araştırmaları; yazarların vurguladığı kavramlara, kavramların birbirleri ile ilişkilerine, yıllar itibari ile popüler olan kelimelere, ülkeler açısından yazarlara ilişkin araştırma oranlarına açıklık getirmektir.
Materyal ve Yöntem: Scopus ve WoS veri tabanlarındaki araştırmaların incelenmesinde R programı ve bibliyometrik analizlerden faydalanılmıştır.
Araştırma Bulguları: Karbon ayak izi ve yeşil organizasyon araştırmalarının son yıllarda yoğun araştırıldığı; karbon ayak izinde sürdürülebilirlik ve iklim değişikliği kavramlarının sıklıkla vurgulandığı ve güçlü ilişkilere sahip olduğu gözlemlenmiştir. Son yıllarda, karbon ayak izi, çevresel sürdürülebilirlik, karbon, sürdürülebilirlik, yeşil tedarik zinciri yönetimi, yeşillendirme, çevre, çevreci bilişim, enerji, yeşil teknoloji, yenilikler, iklim değişikliği ve döngüsel ekonomi kelimelerinin oldukça popüler olduğu anlaşılmıştır.
Sonuç: Günümüzde organizasyonların faaliyetleri, birçok çevreci yaklaşımdan etkilenmektedir. Günden güne daha fazla kirlenen dünyada, yeşil organizasyonlara oldukça fazla ihtiyaç vardır. Ülkelerin öncelikleri arasında yer alan ekonomik kazanımlar, karbon salınımlarının artırmasına ve bütün canlıların yaşam alanlarının daralmasına sebep olmaktadır.
Phytoplankton Diversity of Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary, Odisha
Authors: Mal Jay , Keshri Jai Prakash
Published: April 2024

The phytoplankton diversity of Mangalajodi wetland of Odisha, has been explored for the first time. More than 61 taxa of phytoplankton belonging to 27 genera of algae have been documented. All are first report for the wetland. Two taxon viz. Lepocinclis spirogyroides B.Marin & Melkonian var. indica Keshri & Mal and Trachelomonas armata (Ehrenberg) F. Stein var. indica Keshri & Mal have been proposed new to science. 8 taxa are new record for India while 9 taxa are new to eastern India. 14 taxa are new additions to Odisha. Euglenophycean members are found as dominant component.
Taxonomic revision of the genus Muhlenbergia Schreb. (Poaceae: Chloridoideae) in India
Authors: S. Arumugam , Murthy G. V. S. , Nair V. J.
Published: April 2024

The taxonomic revision of Muhlenbergia in India recognized 6 species including the newly described species Muhlenbergia rakhchamensis and M. myanmarensis. The present revision provides detailed information on the morphology, taxonomy, nomenclature, phenology, and distribution of each species along with illustrations and a key to all the species.
Floristic diversity of Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary, Telangana, India
Authors: Appaiah A. , Swamy J. , Ravi G. , Veeranjaneyulu D.
Published: April 2024

The present communication reveals the current status of the floristic diversity (Angiosperms) of Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary, Mancherial district (Erstwhile Adilabad) Telangana State, India. During the study, a total of 417 plants belonging to 282 genera and 80 families were reported. A total of 151 species belonging to 118 genera and 53 families were found in four IUCN categories. The present documentation will help better understanding of the botanical diversity in this unique protected area for further conservation and management of the sanctuary.
Fimbristylis hookeriana (Cyperaceae), a new addition to the flora of Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Mahesh Y. , Rasingam L. , Venkat Ramana M.
Published: April 2024

No Abstract.
Multigene molecular phylogeny and morphological evidences reveal one new species and three new records of boletoid fungi from India
Authors: Das Kanad , Datta Sudeshna , Singh Upendra , Ghosh Aniket , Chakraborty Dyutiparna
Published: April 2024

During routine macrofungal surveys to two different states of India: Uttarakhand and Meghalaya in 2022 to 2023, authors came across several taxa of Boletoid mushrooms (Boletaceae) which after thorough examination appeared to be novel or interesting. In the present communication, one new species (Harrya olivaceobrunnea) and three new records for Indian mycobiota (Aureoboletus miniatoaurantiacus, Boletus bainiugan and Rugiboletus extremiorientalis) are presented with morphology and multigene molecular phylogeny.
Bulbophyllum nigrescens Rolfe. (Orchidaceae), a new record for India
Authors: Rai Pramod , Limboo Prakash , Khanal Madhusudhan , Sarkar Shuvadip , Agrawala Dinesh Kumar
Published: April 2024

Bulbophyllum nigrescens have been described here for the first time from India. Taxonomic description along with an illustrative photo-plate, information on habitat, phenology, distribution have been provided for easy identification of the species.
Determinants of well-being factors mediated by teacher commitment
Authors: Rahmatullah  , Inanna  , Rijal Syamsu , Sahade  , Aggarwal Ashwani Kumar
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate the variables that affect students' academic well-being. This study found that individualized teaching, family support for learning and teacher dedication are some of the variables that have an impact on children's well-being. The study used a quantitative methodology with 57 students as the sample size. A questionnaire was used to collect the data and random sampling is used in the sampling process. Some of the data analysis methods used in PLS-SEM include path diagram models, validity tests, reliability tests, model fits, R squares and modified R squares, predictive relevance, collinearity, direct and  indirect effects and hypothesis testing. The findings of the study demonstrate that well-being is significantly impacted by directly differentiated instruction that is customized to each student's needs and traits. The well-being of students is significantly impacted by parental learning support. Evaluation of the indirect effects reveals that the differentiated learning variable through teacher devotion significantly affects students' well-being. Parental support's indirect influence on the learning variable has a significant effect on children's wellbeing similar to how teacher dedication serves as a mediator. The research contribution to the development of literature is related to how the role of parent support in learning has led to increased teacher commitment. Effective implementation of individualized instruction and integration of parental assistance in learning into the learning process are accessible to teachers who have a strong dedication to their career. A committed teacher will create an inclusive learning environment that will ultimately realize the overall well-being of students.
Age and Sex Characteristics of Dermatophytosis in Gianyar, Indonesia
Authors: Putu Indah Budiapsari  , Ni Kadek Ari Purnama  , Sayu Widiawati
Published: April 2024

Highlights:1. Although dermatophytes may typically cause mild infections, it is crucial to conduct continuous research due to their potential to cause severe diseases in individuals who are highly susceptible to infection.2. This study offers insight into the increased risk of developing dermatophytosis for female and adult individuals compared to male and younger individuals.
 
Abstract
Dermatophytosis is a superficial fungal infection caused by a filamentous fungus that attacks keratinized tissues on the skin, nails, and hair. The clinical manifestation of dermatophytosis is determined by the source. In addition, it can be influenced by host-related factors, such as age, sex, and race. These are significant epidemiological factors, although the association between these factors and susceptibility to infection has not been clarified. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the association between the incidence of dermatophytosis and host-related factors (i.e., age and sex) in Gianyar Regency, Indonesia. This observational study used a cross-sectional design and total sampling. A total of 100 samples were collected from the medical records of patients diagnosed with dermatophytosis. The Chi-square test was employed to determine the correlation between the independent and dependent variables with a p-value of <0.05. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 22.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, N.Y., USA). The majority of patients with dermatophytes infection were adults over the age of 19 (74%) and females (57%). The most prevalent type of dermatophytosis was tinea corporis (36%). The Chi-square test revealed a significant association between the type of dermatophytosis and the variables being examined, namely age (p = 0.025; OR = 1.978; 95% CI = 1.087-3.599) and sex (p = 0.003; OR = 2.357; 95% CI = 1.334-4.162). In conclusion, the manifestation of certain types of dermatophytosis is associated with age and sex. The findings of this study recommend enhancing the detection of dermatophytosis infection, especially in adults (>19 years old) and women.
Warthin tumor: Assessment of association with salivary gland and non-salivary gland malignant tumors via clinicopathological and radiological data
Authors: Yılmaz Fatih , Açıkalın Fuat , Pınarbaşlı Mehmet Özgür , Kaya Ercan , Ak İlknur
Published: April 2024

This study aims to find out the incidence of malignant tumors originating from the salivary gland or other organs in patients with Warthin tumor (WT) and compare the clinicopathological, radiological, and demographic data of WT patients with or without malignant tumors. The study population consisted of 170 patients diagnosed with WT from cytology, surgery, and consultation materials between 2010 and 2021 in our hospital. Patient files were reviewed in terms of demographic data, smoking status, presence of malignant tumor, radiological findings, symptom duration, and operation procedure. A total of 40 malignant tumors were detected in 36 (21.2%) of 170 patients with WT. The most common localizations of malignant tumors were lung (35.0%), head and neck (35.0%), and genitourinary (12.5%) regions. The mean age of the patients with malignant tumor diagnosis (62.1±9.2) was higher than the patients without (56.5±9.8) (p=0.002). There was no significant difference between cases with and without malignant tumors in terms of gender, multifocality, bilaterality, amount of smoking, and pain complaints (p>0.05). The SUVmax of WTs ranged from 3 to 17.7 (median: 6.8, IQR: 5.5-11.0), and that of malignant tumors ranged from 2.7 to 16.2 (median: 8, IQR: 5.1-10.3) (p=0.756). This study demonstrates that WT can be seen with malignant tumors synchronously but also encountered before and after the malignant tumor diagnosis. This possibility should be considered, especially in the head and neck region, in patients diagnosed with malignant tumors or being investigated.
Editor’s intro. Some aspects of the transformation of pedagogical design in the conditions of digitalization of the educational space
Authors: Chernykh S. I.
Published: April 2024

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Artificial intelligence in changing pedagogical design
Authors: Chernykh S. I.
Published: April 2024

Introduction.The article examines the grounds for changing pedagogical design under the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) applications introduced into educational practices. The author, as the main thesis, asserts the idea that the active introduction of AI applications into the educational process leads to a «blurring» of the subjectivity of students and trainees, as well as to the «formation» of AI as a «third subject» in traditional dual educational interaction.Purpose setting. The relevance of considering this problem is associated with the uncertainty of the consequences of the introduction of AI into learning processes, a decrease in the «quality» of an individual’s personal choice, as well as a reduction of the index of his responsibility for this choice.

Methodology and methods of the study.The article shows that modern changes in the educational space, both global and Russian, are associated with a number of factors. The change in traditional architecture, the transformation of values and meanings, the universalization of educational standards combined with the individualization of educational trajectories, the active «emigration» to the virtual world – all this differentiates the educational community, destroying its socio-cultural identity.

Results.The article emphasizes the position that the impact of AI on changing the entire learning architecture requires not only new didactics, but also fundamentally changes the entire pedagogical design. The reduction of the so-called «routine work» (that is, the one that is easier to algorithmize) – the search for information, the creation of primary textual and visual materials, the «prompt of rational choices» of actual goal-setting and goal-realization (etc.) «replace» many characteristics in the scope of an individual’s subjectivity. This literally detaches learning from upbringing and thereby deprives education of its holistic justification as a platform for its unity.

Conclusion.The virtualization of thinking and cognitive potentials determines the obvious inconsistency in the vectors of transformation of educational interactions. If the first vector is aimed at intensifying learning technologies through AI as a «tool», then the second contains conditions for «blurring» the responsibility of educational subjects through its «substitution and shifting» to impersonal subjects-avatars.
Adversarial Variational Autoencoders to Extend and Improve Generative Model
Authors: Nguyen Loc , Abdalla Hassan I. , Amer Ali A.
Published: April 2024

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has been developing with many incredible achievements like ChatGPT and Bard. Deep generative model (DGM) is a branch of GenAI, which is preeminent in generating raster data such as image and sound due to strong points of deep neural network (DNN) in inference and recognition. The built-in inference mechanism of DNN, which simulates and aims to synaptic plasticity of human neuron network, fosters generation ability of DGM which produces surprised results with support of statistical flexibility. Two popular approaches in DGM are Variational Autoencoders (VAE) and Generative Adversarial Network (GAN). Both VAE and GAN have their own strong points although they share and imply underline theory of statistics as well as incredible complex via hidden layers of DNN when DNN becomes effective encoding/decoding functions without concrete specifications. In this research, VAE and GAN is unified into a consistent and consolidated model called Adversarial Variational Autoencoders (AVA) in which VAE and GAN complement each other, for instance, VAE is good at generator by encoding data via excellent ideology of Kullback-Leibler divergence and GAN is a significantly important method to assess reliability of data which is realistic or fake. In other words, AVA aims to improve accuracy of generative models, besides AVA extends function of simple generative models. In methodology this research focuses on combination of applied mathematical concepts and skillful techniques of computer programming in order to implement and solve complicated problems as simply as possible.
Molecular Events in Immune Responses to Sublingual Influenza Vaccine with Hemagglutinin Antigen and Poly(I:C) Adjuvant in Nonhuman Primates, Cynomolgus Macaques
Authors: Yamamoto Tetsuro , Hirano Makoto , Mitsunaga Fusako , Wasaki Kunihiko , Kotani Atsushi , Tajima Kazuki , Nakamura Shin
Published: April 2024

Sublingual vaccines offer the benefits of inducing mucosal immunity to protect against respiratory viruses, including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza, while also enabling needle-free self-administration. Previously, we developed a sublingual vaccine formulated with the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain antigen and Poly(I:C) adjuvant in nonhuman primates, cynomolgus macaques. This study examined the immune and inflammatory responses elicited by the sublingual influenza vaccine containing hemagglutinin (HA) antigen and Poly(I:C) adjuvant and assessed the safety of this vaccine in nonhuman primates. The Poly(I:C)-adjuvanted sublingual vaccine induced both mucosal and systemic immunities. Specifically, the sublingual vaccineproduced HA-specific secretory IgA antibodies in saliva and nasal washings, and HA-specific IgA and IgG were detected in the blood. This vaccine appeared to be safe, as judged from the results of blood tests and plasma C-reactive protein levels. Notably, sublingual vaccination neither increased the production of inflammation-associated cytokines—IFN-alpha, IFN-gamma, and IL-17—in the blood, nor upregulated the gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines—IL12A, IL12B, IFNA1, IFNB1, CD69, and granzyme B—in white blood cells. Moreover, DNA microarray analyses revealed that sublingual vaccination evoked both enhancing and suppressing expression changes in genes associated with immune-related responses in cynomolgus monkeys. Therefore, the sublingual vaccine with Poly(I:C) adjuvant is safe and creates a balanced state of enhancing and suppressing the immune-related response.
Antibiofilm Activity Of Benzoic Acid Against Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Kamal Muhammad Azinuddin Abdull , Khalil Khaniza Hasliza Abdul
Published: April 2024

The occurrence and ability of Salmonella typhimurium to withstand the effects of various antibiotics has been extensively recorded. This highlights the necessity for alternative methods to combat Salmonella infections. The current investigation aimed to ascertain the impact of benzoic acid on the extent of surface coverage and biomass of S. typhimurium biofilm after 48 and 72 hours. The findings indicated that all the different doses of benzoic acid (ranging from 3.125% to 50%) resulted in a decrease in the extent of biofilm surface coverage. Benzoic acid exhibited a substantial inhibitory effect on the biofilm biomass at all concentrations. Higher concentrations of benzoic acid led to a decrease in biofilm biomass, suggesting a concentration-dependent response. This finding implies that benzoic acid is effective in managing Salmonella infections.
Application of the HILIC-MS Novel Protocol to Study the Metabolic Heterogeneity of Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Šofranko Jakub , Gondáš Eduard , Murín Radovan
Published: April 2024

Glioblastoma is a highly malignant brain tumor consisting of heterogeneous cellular population. The transformed metabolism of glioblastoma cells supports their growth and division on the background of their milieu. One might hypothesize that the transformed metabolism of a primary glioblastoma could be well adapted to limitations in the variety and number of substrates imported into the brain parenchyma and present it their microenvironment. Additionally, the phenotypic heterogeneity of cancer cells could promote the variations among their metabolic capabilities regarding the utilization of available substrates and release of metabolic intermediates. With the aim to identify the putative metabolic footprint of different types of glioblastoma cells, we exploited the possibility for separation of polar and ionic molecules present in culture media or cell lysates by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC). The mass spectrometry (MS) was then used to identify and quantify the eluted compounds. The introduced method allows the detection and quantification of more than 150 polar and ionic metabolites in single run, those may be present either in culture media or cell lysates and provide data for polaromic studies within metabolomics. The method was applied to analyze the culture media and cell lysates derived from two types of glioblastoma cells, T98G and U118. The analysis revealed that even the both types of glioblastoma cells share several common metabolic aspects, they also exhibit differences in their metabolic capability. This finding agrees with the hypothesis about metabolic heterogeneity of glioblastoma cells. Furthermore, the combination of both analytical methods, HILIC-MS, provides a valuable tool for metabolomic studies based on the simultaneous identification and quantification of a wide range of polar and ionic metabolites - polaromics.
Influence of Agro-industrial Waste Composts on Soil Characteristics, Growth Dynamics, and Yield of Red Cabbage and Broccoli
Authors: Maffia Angela , Marra Federica , Battaglia Santo , Oliva Mariateresa , Mallamaci Carmelo , Adele Muscolo
Published: April 2024

In the ongoing work, environmentally sound technologies for converting organic wastes into fertilizers, to improve soil sustainability and crop yield have been identified and assessed. Wet wastes were combined with 50% wood sawdust and 50% 50% wet wastes (Compost 1) or (10% Straw + 90% wet wastes) (Compost 2) to produce soil improvers with a balanced level of nutrients and their effectiveness on soil ecosystem functioning have been tested and compared to horse manure (HM) and nitrogen:phosphorous:potassium (NPK) fertilizers. Unfertilized soil was used as control. Soil chemical and biological properties, have been detected after the harvesting of broccoli and red cabbage (90 days from the initial treatments). Three independent experiments have been conducted in open field in a randomized complete block design with three replications (n=9). Results showed that Compost 1 had the highest C/N ratio and CSC, indicating a better humification of wet material. Compost 1 even if contained a minor amount of organic carbon, as well as a less activity of FDA and DHA than Compost 2, was the most effective in improving soil quality, significantly increasing the labile fraction of organic matter, the oxidative enzyme (DHA), microbial biomass and crop yield. Both composts increased crop productivity.
What Is a Sarcoma ‘Specialist Center’? Multidisciplinary Research Finds an Answer
Authors: Wilson Roger L , Reinke Denise , van Oortmerssen Gerard , Gonzato Ornella , Ott Gabriele , Raut Chandrajit P , Guadagnolo B Ashleigh , Haas Rick L.M. , Trent Jonathan , Jones Robin , Pretorius Lauren , Felser Brandi , Basson Mandy , Schuster Kathrin , Kasper Bernd
Published: April 2024

Management of sarcomas in specialist centers delivers significant benefits. In much of the world specialists are not available and development of expertise is identified as a major need. However the terms ‘specialist’ or ‘expert’ center are rarely defined. Our objective is to offer a definition for patient advocates and a tool for healthcare providers to underpin improving the care of people with sarcoma. SPAGN developed a discussion paper for a workshop at the SPAGN 2023 Conference, attended by 75 delegates. A presentation to the Connective Tissue Oncology Society (CTOS) and further discussion led to this paper. Core Principles were identified that underlie specialist sarcoma care. The primary principle is the multi-disciplinary team discussing every patient, at first diagnosis and during treatment. Principles for optimal sarcoma management include accurate diagnosis followed by safe, high-quality treatment, with curative intent. These Principles are supplemented by Features describing areas of healthcare, professional involvement, and service provision and identifying further research and development needs. These allow for variations because of national or local policies and budgets. We propose the term ‘Sarcoma Intelligent Specialist Network’ to recognize expertise wherever it is found in the world. This provides a base for further discussion and local refinement.
Fluid Chemical and Isotopic Signatures Insighting the Hydrothermal Control of the Wahongshan-Wenquan Fracture Zone (WWFZ), NE Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Li Tingxin , Lu Rui , Xie Wenping , Zhu Jinshou , Liu Lingxia , Lin Wenjing
Published: April 2024

Compared to the southern Tibetan Plateau, the northern part has been regarded as relatively lacking geothermal resources. However, there is no lack of natural hot springs exposed in beads along large-scale fracture systems, and research on them is currently limited to individual hot springs or geothermal systems. This paper focuses on the Wahongshan-Wenquan Fracture Zone (WWFZ), analyzes the formation of five hydrothermal activity zones along the fracture zone in terms of differences in the hydrochemical and isotopic composition of the hot water, and then explores the hydrothermal control of hot springs in the zone by the fracture. The results show that the main Fractures of WWFZ is the regional heat-control structures, and the fracture system formed by a small number of near-north-south and near-east-west fractures transversal to it provides a favorable channel for deep hydrothermal convective circulation. Ice and snow melt water from the Ngola Shan Mountains, with an average elevation of more than 4,500 meters above sea level, infiltrates along the fractures and is heated by deep circulation to form deep geothermal reservoirs. There is no detectable contribution of mantle source heat to the hot spring gases, and the heat source is mainly natural heat conduction warming, but the "Low-Velocity body (LVB)" in the middle and lower crust of the area may be the primary heat source of the high geothermal background in the area. The hydrochemical components of the hot springs in the area show a certain regularity, and the main ionic components, TDS and water temperature, tend to increase away from the main rupture, reflecting the controlling effect of the WWF on the hydrothermal transport in the area. In the future, the geothermal work in this area should focus on the hydrothermal control properties of different levels, the nature of fractures in the area, and the thermal contribution of LVB in the middle and lower crust.
Explore the Molecular Mechanism of Caveolae-1 Regulates Changes in Blood-Brain Barrier Permeability Leading to Eosinophilic Meningoencephalitis
Authors: Chen An-Chih , Lai Shih-Chan , Lu Cheng-You , Chen Ke-Min
Published: April 2024

Angiostrongylus cantonensis, a zoonotic parasite, can invade the human central nervous system (CNS) and cause acute eosinophilic meningitis or eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. Mice infected with A. cantonensis show elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, plasminogen activators, and matrix metalloproteinase-9, resulting in disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and immune cell infiltration into the CNS. Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) regulates the permeability of the BBB, which affects immune cells and cerebrospinal fluid. This intricate interaction ultimately fuels the progression of brain damage and edema. This study aims to investigate the regulatory role of Cav-1 in the pathogenesis of meningoencephalitis induced by A. cantonensis infection. We investigate pathological alterations by triphenyl-tetrazolium chloride, brain water content, BBB permeability, Western blot analysis, and gelatin zymography in BALB/c mice after A. cantonensis. The study evaluates the critical role of Cav-1 regulation through the TLR4 / MyD88 signaling pathway, modulates tight junction proteins, influences BBB permeability, and contributes to brain damage in A. cantonensis-induced meningoencephalitis.
Circulating RKIP and pRKIP Might Be Novel Potential Biomarkers of Early-Stage Lung Cancer: Results from a Pilot Study
Authors: Gasparri Roberto , Papale Massimo , Sabalic Angela , Catalano Valeria , Deleonardis Annamaria , De Luca Federica , Ranieri Elena , Spaggiari Lorenzo
Published: April 2024

Lung cancer remains the main cause of global cancer-related deaths. Currently low-dose computed tomography (LD-CT) shows a 20% reduction of mortality. However, its clinical suitability is hindered by cost, radiation, and some false positives. Thus, the discovery non-invasive and less-expensive biomarker is urgent needed. In this scenario, proteins released in biological fluids could be considered interesting biomarkers for their role in cancer development. We conducted a pioneering case-control pilot study aimed at assessing the usefulness of Raf Kinase Inhibitory Protein (RKIP) and its phosphorylated form (pRKIP) as potential early-stage lung cancer biomarkers. Urine and Blood samples of two consecutive and independent cohorts of lung cancer patients and healthy controls were screened by means of a novel experimental ELISA assay designed to evaluate both forms of the biomarker. Although urinary levels of RKIP were not statistically different between the lung cancer group and high-risk healthy group, serum ones instead increased significantly in early stage LC patients and permitted to discriminate LC patients from both low-risk (HS) and high-risk healthy subjects (HR-HS) with an overall 93% accuracy (AUC 0.93) when LC was compared to HS and 74% (AUC 0.73) when it was compared to high-risk group. Of note, the analysis of RKIP/pRKIP ratio also showed a high accuracy (90% - AUC 0.95) in discriminating LC patients from HS and more importantly, it allowed to identify LC patients compared to HR-HS, with a higher accuracy (79% - AUC 0.79) than RKIP alone. We hypothesize that serum RKIP levels may be correlated to the activation of the immune systems against the tumor during the first phases of its development. Our study identified a preliminary, non-invasive, RKIP and pRKIP profile able to discriminate with high specificity and sensitivity the early-stage lung cancer patients from high-risk Healthy Subjects. These results, although preliminary, suggest the utility of measuring RKIP/pRKIP as potential new screening test for lung cancer and provide the basis for future validation studies.
Distal Locking of Intramedullary Nailing in Tibial Shaft Fractures: A Comparison between Fluoroscopic and Electromagnetic Guidance
Authors: Testa Gianluca , Sammartino Fabio , Mangano Sebastiano , Gurrieri Luca , Vitaliti Gioele , Sapienza Marco , Pavone Vito
Published: April 2024

Background: Tibial shaft fractures are the most common of long bone fractures. The gold standard for management is locked intramedullary nailing. The freehand method under fluoroscopic monitoring is the most often utilized method for distal screw locking. Electromagnetic guidance-based distal screw locking methods have gained popularity recently. The study's objective is to evaluate the system using electromagnetic tracking data against the free-hand technique. Methods: Sixty-three patients who received intramedullary nailing for tibial shaft fractures at our institute between January 2018 and May 2022, were included in this study. Two groups of patients were distinguished: Group FH underwent freehand distal locking and intramedullary nailing, while Group SS underwent electromagnetically guided locking. Radiation exposure period, as well as dose area product, were noted and statistically compared. Results: In terms of dose area product, a mean value of 43.57±31.57 cGy/cm2 in group FH and a mean value of 27.62±11.20 cGy/cm2 in group SS (p < 0.05) was assessed. Concerning the duration of surgery a mean value of 128.83±26.51 minutes was reported in group FH and a mean value of 126.42±48.31 minutes in group SS (p > 0.05). Conclusions: This study confirms the use of electromagnetic-guided locking distal screws reduces the total time of exposure to ionizing radiation, with no difference in operating time.
The Lipid-Heart Hypothesis and the Keys Equation Defined the Dietary Guidelines but Ignored the Impact of Trans-fat and High Linoleic Acid Consumption
Authors: Newport Academic Editor: Mary T , Dayrit Fabian M
Published: April 2024

In response to a perceived epidemic of coronary heart disease, Ancel Keys introduced the lipid-heart hypothesis in 1953 which asserted that high intakes of total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol lead to atherosclerosis and that consuming less fat and cholesterol, and replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated fat, would reduce serum cholesterol and consequently the risk of heart disease. Keys proposed an equation that would predict the concentration of serum cholesterol (DChol.) from consumption of saturated fat (DS), polyunsaturated fat (DP), and cholesterol (DZ): ΔChol. = 1.2(2ΔS − ΔP) + 1.5ΔZ. However, the Keys equation conflated natural saturated fat and industrial trans-fat into a single parameter and considered only linoleic acid as the polyunsaturated fat. This ignored the widespread consumption of trans-fat and its effects on serum cholesterol and promoted an imbalance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the diet. Numerous observational, epidemiological, interventional, and autopsy studies have failed to validate the Keys equation and the lipid-heart hypothesis. Nevertheless, these have been the cornerstone of national and international dietary guidelines which have focused disproportionately on heart disease and much less so on cancer and metabolic disorders, which have steadily increased since the adoption of this hypothesis.
Understanding the Boundless Potential of Infinite Numbers in Mathematics
Authors: U Zaman Budee
Published: April 2024

In this article, we discuss the concept of infinity (∞), infinitesimals □ , and a new mathematical operation that expands calculations into the realm of the infinite. This breakthrough allows for the computation of infinite numbers, leading to new possibilities for mathematical research and practical applications. By introducing infinite numbers, numerous advantages arise, such as accurately representing limits, divergences in integrals and infinite series, and extending calculations to infinity. This mathematical advancement opens doors to exploring uncharted territories, offering valuable insights and breakthroughs
Phytochemical Profiles and Cytotoxic Activity of Bursera fagaroides Leaves and Its Callus Culture
Authors: Pérez-Mejía Nancy , Villarreal María Luisa , Sánchez-Carranza Jessica Nayelli , Gonzalez-Maya Leticia , González-Cortazar Manasés , Ortiz Caltempa Anabel , Alvarez Laura
Published: April 2024

Bursera fagaroides popularly used in México possess bioactive lignans. These compounds are low in the bark, and its extraction endangers the life of the trees. The aim of the present investigation was to search for alternative sources of cytotoxic compounds from B. fagaroides as leaves and in vitro callus cultures. The friable callus of B. fagaroides were established using a combination of phytoregulators: 4 mgL-1 of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), 1 mgL-1 Naphthaleneacetic Acid (NAA) and 1 mgL-1 Zeatin. The maximum cell growth was at day 28 with a specific growth rate μ= 0.059 days-1 and duplication time td=11.8 days. Scopoletin with a concentration of 10.7 µg/g dry weight was the main compound inducible as a phytoalexin by the addition of high concentrations of 2,4-D, as well as by the absence of nutrients in the culture medium. The com-pounds γ-sitosterol, and stigmasterol were also present. Open column chromatography was used to separate and identify: yatein, acetyl podophyllotoxin and 7'8'-dehydropodophyllotoxin in the leaves of the wild plant. Cytotoxic activity on four cancer cell lines was tested, being PC-3 prostate carcinoma (IC50 of 12.6±4.6) the most sensitive to the wild-type plant extract and HeLa cervical carcinoma (IC50 of 72±5) to the callus culture extract.
Changes of Species Composition, Diversity, and Biomass of Secondary Dry Grasslands After Long-Term Mowing, a Case Study in Hungary
Authors: Házi Judit , Purger Dragica , Penksza Károly , Bartha Sándor
Published: April 2024

The focus of our study was the changes in the composition of semi-natural dry grasslands in Hungary. Since these valuable habitats were created with the help of humans, their preservation also requires regular treatment. Our mowing experiment aimed to investigate the suppression of the native Calamagrostis epigejos L. Roth. In Hungary, in the Cserhát Mountains, eight permanent plots were mowed twice a year. The vegetation was sampled annually between 2001 and 2011. The effects of mowing were investigated with repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). After 10 years, the C. epigejos cover of the mowed plots decreased significantly, from the initial average of 62.38 to 7.50%. Surprisingly, we also experienced a similar decrease in the control plots. Regular treatment also had a positive effect on the number of species and diversity. Species richness increased continuously in both treatment types, which indicates the combined effect of vegetation succession and treatment. The biomass growth of other Poaceae and Fabaceae species, which are important from a grassland management perspective, was also facilitated by mowing. Our results suggest that long-term in situ experiments and continuous botanical studies are needed to establish a reliable utilization of grasslands.
Enabling Passive Load-Holding Function and System Pressures Control in a One-Motor-One-Pump Motor-Controlled Hydraulic Cylinder: Simulation Study
Authors: Zhao Wei , Ebbesen Morten Kjeld , Hansen Michael Rygaard , Andersen Torben Ole
Published: April 2024

This paper is concerned with a hydraulic cylinder directly controlled by a variable speed fixed displacement pump. The considered configuration is referred to as a one-motor-one-pump (1M1P) motor-controlled hydraulic cylinder (MCC). A 1M1P MCC with a hydraulically driven passive load-holding function enabled by controlled system pressures is proposed. The proposed load-holding functionality works if there is a standstill command, a loss of power supply, or a hose rupture. Additionally, this paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of the proposed system's operation and load-holding function across four quadrants. Simulation results demonstrate the four-quadrant operation and good load-holding performance under the aforementioned scenarios. In conclusion, the proposed 1M1P MCC can be successfully used on practical applications characterized by overrunning loads and four quadrant operation.
GRK5KO Mouse Mirrors Mild Cognitive Impairment due to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Suo William Z.
Published: April 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) poses a significant public health challenge due to its irreversible and progressive nature while lack of a cure. As a potential strategy to combat AD, its prevention becomes increasingly attractive. Mild Cognitive Impairment due to AD (MCI-AD) represents a critical transitional stage between normal age-related cognitive decline and more severe AD conditions, occurring just before dementia onset. Unfortunately, there is currently no established animal model that accurately recapitulates MCI-AD characteristics. While many laboratories have traditionally used normally aged wild-type animals as experimental models, this approach falls short in representing the inherently worse state of MCI-AD compared to normal aging. To address this gap, we introduce an animal model—a transgenic mouse line with genetic inactivation of G protein-coupled receptor kinase-5 (GRK5), commonly known as the GRK5 knockout (GRK5KO) mouse. These GRK5KO mice exhibit amnesia, cognitive deficits, increased β-amyloid levels, neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) immunopositive axonopathy, and hippocampal neurodegenerative changes. Importantly, these pathological alterations predominantly impact the entorhinal, transentorhinal, and hippocampal cortices, aligning with human MCI-AD criteria and Braak stage II of human AD progression. Notably, female GRK5KO mice show approximately 2.5 times more NFT-positive axonopathy than males, mirroring the higher prevalence of AD cases in women. Collectively, existing data strongly supports the GRK5KO mouse as a qualified animal model for studying MCI-AD.
Assessing the Impact of Brackish Water on Soil Salinization Using Time-Lapse Electromagnetic Induction Inversion
Authors: De Carlo Lorenzo , Farzamian Mohammad
Published: April 2024

In the last decade Electromagnetic Induction (EMI) measurements have been increasingly used for investigating the soil salinization caused by the use of brackish or saline water as irrigation source. EMI measurements proved to be a powerful tool for providing spatial information of the investigated soil because of the strict correlation between the output geophysical parameter, i.e. the electrical conductivity, to soil moisture and salinity. In addition, their non-invasive nature and their capability to collect a high number of data over broad areas and in relatively short time, makes these measurements attractive for monitoring flow and transport dynamics, otherwise undetectable with conventional measurements. In an experimental field, EMI measurements were collected during the growth season of the tomato, irrigated with three different irrigation strategies. The data were collected over three months in a time-lapse mode in order to visualize changes in electrical conductivity to be associated with soil salinity. A rigorous time-lapse inversion procedure has been set for modeling the soil salinization induced by brackish irrigation water.
Towards a Refined Heuristic Evaluation: Incorporating Hierarchical Analysis for Weighted Usability Assessment
Authors: Talero-Sarmiento Leonardo , Gonzalez-Capdevilla Marc , Granollers Antoni , Lamos-Diaz Henry , Pistili-Rodrigues Karine
Published: April 2024

This study delves into the realm of heuristic evaluation within usability testing, focusing on refining and applying a tailored algorithm that simplifies the implementation of the Analytic Hierarchy Process for heuristic prioritization. Addressing the prevalent challenge of disparate evaluation methodologies and the absence of a standardized process in usability testing, our research introduces a novel method that leverages the Analytic Hierarchy Process alongside a bespoke algorithm. This algorithm utilizes transitive properties for pairwise comparisons, significantly reducing the evaluative workload. This innovative approach facilitates the estimation of heuristic relevance irrespective of the number of items per heuristic or the item scale and streamlines the overall evaluation process. In addition to rigorous simulation testing of the tailored algorithm, we applied our method in a practical scenario, engaging seven usability experts in evaluating a web interface. This empirical application underscored our method’s capacity to diminish the requisite comparison count and spotlight areas of improvement for critically weighted yet underperforming heuristics. The outcomes of this study underscore the efficacy of our approach in enhancing the efficiency and organization of heuristic evaluations, paving the way for more structured and effective usability testing methodologies in future research endeavors.
Preparation of a Water-Soluble Aminated Lignin and Its Structure Analysis
Authors: Zheng Qi , Nong Zai Guang , Li Ning
Published: April 2024

Lignin is insoluble in water, limiting its use in the synthesis of adhesives. Therefore, in order to increase the amount of lignin raw materials used in the synthesis of adhesives, a kind of aminated lignin compounds was prepared through lignin amination reaction, and conducting structural analysis in this paper. The particle size of the amino lignin is about 100 nm, with the weight average molecular weight of 57,627 g/mol and a water solubility of 0.45g/100ml. The reaction mechanisms were proposed that the phenolic hydroxyl groups of lignin react with ammonia molecules, and thereby successfully introducing amino groups to generate the aminated lignin compounds. Therefore, this article enriches the scientific theory of lignin reactions and provides reference for the widespread application of lignin raw materials in the field of adhesives.
Effect of Tacticity on London Dispersive Surface Energy, Polar Free Energy, and Lewis Acid-Base Surface Energies of Poly Methyl Methacrylate by Inverse Gas Chromatography
Authors: Hamieh Tayssir
Published: April 2024

This research was devoted to study the effect of the tacticity of PMMA on the surface physicochemical properties such as the London dispersive component of the surface energy of the polymer, the polar and dispersive free energies, the Lewis’s acid-base surface parameters, and the Lewis acid and base surface energies of atactic, isotactic and syndiotactic PMMAs as a function of the temperature. Inverse gas chromatography (IGC) at infinite dilution was used to determine the surface thermodynamic properties of PMMA at different tacticities. The experimental values of the net retention time and volume of model organic molecules adsorbed on the atactic, isotactic and syndiotactic PMMAs, were obtained by IGC technique at infinite dilution. The London dispersion interaction energy was used for the separation of the polar and dispersive energy of the different n-alkanes and polar solvents adsorbed on the different PMMA surfaces. The London dispersive surface energy γ_s^d (T) of PMMAs was determined by applying the Hamieh thermal model that took into account the effect of the temperature on the surface area of adsorbed molecules. The obtained results showed non-linear variations of γ_s^d (T) of atactic, isotactic, and syndiotactic PMMAs with three maxima characterizing the three transition temperatures of PMMAs, T_g, T_g and T_(liq-liq) with a shift of these temperatures with the isotactic and syndiotactic PMMAs. It was showed that the polar interaction free energy ∆G_a^p (T) also showed the presence of the three above transition temperatures of the polymers. The study showed an important non-linearity variation of the different acid-base parameters in the various polymer surfaces proving the highest effect of the temperature and the tacticity on these parameters. The determination of the enthalpic and entropic Lewis’s acid-base parameters showed an amphoteric character for the different PMMAs. The basicity of the atactic PMMA was about four times larger than its acidity outside the neighborhood of the transition temperatures of the polymer. Whereas, the isotactic PMMA was about 2 to 2.5 times more basic than acid, while the syndiotactic PMMA exhibited the highest basicity by showing a surface 5 to 8 times more basic than acid. However, the Lewis acid-base parameters strongly depended on the temperature and sudden variations of these surface parameters were observed around the transition temperatures largely depending on the PMMA tacticity. The determination of the polar acid and base surface energies of the three PMMAs led to the same previous transition temperatures with an important effect of the tacticity of PMMA on the values of these acid-base surface energies.