bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FAM50A as a novel prognostic marker modulates the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells via CylinA2/CDK2 pathway
Authors: Li Longhai , Ji Zhaoshuai , Li Guangyun , Gu Hao , Sun Yan
Published: February 2025

Objective

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent malignant tumor type and the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Sequence similarity family 50 member A (FAM50A) plays a vital role in numerous disease processes, including tumor progression. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of FAM50A in CRC and to explore its role in CRC cell proliferation.

Methods

TCGA and GTEX databases and immunohistochemical staining (IHC) was used to study the expression of FAM50A in CRC tissues. Patient survival data were used to assess the prognostic significance of FAM50A in CRC using Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis. The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU), and colony-formation assays were employed to assess the impact of FAM50A on tumor cell proliferation. Flow cytometry was used to detect the changes of cell cycle. The cell cycle and cycle-related proteins were measured via western blotting (WB) to explore the potential mechanisms involving in cancer progresses.

Results

The results of IHC revealed a notable upregulation of FAM50A expression levels in CRC tissue compared with adjacent normal tissue. Moreover, FAM50A expression was positively correlated with N and TNM stages in 145 patients with CRC. Cox regression analysis and construction of a nomogram revealed that high FAM50A expression was a prognostic indicator for poor overall survival in patients with CRC. Knockdown of FAM50A decreased cell proliferation ability, the proportion of EdU positive cells, and the number of CRC cell colonies, whereas overexpressing FAM50A promoted proliferative phenotypes. Knocking down FAM50A induced a significant increase in the number of cells in the S phase. Meanwhile, CyclinA2 and CDK2 were significantly reduced after FAM50A knocking down.

Conclusion

FAM50A may be a novel prognostic marker for CRC, and may participate in regulating tumor progression by targeting the CyclinA2/CDK2 signal pathway.
Optimizing success rate with Nonlinear Mapping Control in a high-performance raspberry Pi-based light source target tracking system
Authors: Zhou Guiyu , Zhang Bo , Li Qinghao , Zhao Qin , Zhang Shengyao
Published: February 2025

This study addresses the limitations of linear mapping in two-dimensional gimbal control for moving target tracking, which results in significant control errors and slow response times. To overcome these issues, we propose a nonlinear mapping control method that enhances the success rate of light source target tracking systems. Using Raspberry Pi 4B and OpenCV, the control system performs real-time recognition of rectangular frames and laser spot images. The tracking system, which includes an OpenMV H7 Plus camera, captures and processes the laser spot path. Both systems are connected to an STM32F407ZGT6 microcontroller to drive a 42-step stepper motor with precise control. By adjusting the parameter c of the nonlinear mapping curve, we optimize the system's performance, balancing the response speed and stability. Our results show a significant improvement in control accuracy, with a miss rate of 3.3%, an average error rate of 0.188% at 1.25 m, and a 100% success rate in target tracking. The proposed nonlinear mapping control method offers substantial advancements in real-time tracking and control systems, demonstrating its potential for broader application in intelligent control fields.
The role of renal and liver function in clinical ctDNA testing
Authors: Koudahl Conrad Jens Bo , Vesterman Henriksen Tenna , Berg Nors Jesper , Heilskov Rasmussen Mads , Worm Ørntoft Mai-Britt , Hallundbæk Schlesinger Nis , Vadgaard Andersen Per , Andersson Gotschalck Kåre , Andersen Claus Lindbjerg
Published: February 2025

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has high clinical potential in early cancer detection. The renal system and the liver are involved in clearing circulating cell free DNA (cfDNA) from the blood. Recent studies on mice show that inhibiting the liver’s ability to clear cfDNA results in elevated ctDNA levels in blood samples. Emphasizing the need for studies in humans exploring if markers of renal and liver function are associated with cfDNA and ctDNA levels in the blood. The present study investigates if cfDNA level, ctDNA level and ctDNA detection is affected in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with clinical biomarkers indicative of low renal and liver function. We requisitioned standard laboratory tests of renal and liver function, measured within thirty days of curative intended surgery from 846 stage I-III CRC patients. For each patient, matching preoperative cfDNA and ctDNA data was available. We investigated the correlation between impaired renal and liver function and cfDNA level, ctDNA level, and ctDNA detection. The findings revealed that variation in renal and liver function in stage I-III CRC patients did not affect cfDNA level, ctDNA level, or ctDNA detection and that ctDNA test results remain stable over a wide range of renal and liver biomarker results.
Measurement accuracy and cutoffs for predicting primary aldosteronism diagnosis using Lumipulse® for renin and aldosterone measurements
Authors: Laney Maude , Nabi-Bourgois Appoline , Mallart-Riancho Julien , Travers Simon , Chebbi Mouna , Kling Aurore , Amar Laurence , Baron Stephanie
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Primary aldosteronism (PA) diagnosis is a multistep process that begins with screening based on the plasma aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR). As cut-off values depend on the methods used, the aim of this study was 1) to validate the performances of new aldosterone and renin chemiluminescent immuno-assays using the Lumipulse® analyzer (Fujirebio®) and then 2) to define the criteria to distinguish PA patients from those with essential hypertension (EH).

Methods

This monocentric retrospective study included 297 patients admitted to Georges Pompidou European Hospital, France, between January 2021 and December 2022 for the assessment of hypertension etiology. We evaluated analytical performances and compared Lumipulse® results for plasma renin (PRC) and plasma aldosterone (PAC) concentrations (n = 196) as well as 24-hour urine aldosterone excretion (24UA) (n = 201) to the reference methods (PRC: Liaison XL® Diasorin®; PAC and 24UA: LC-MS/MS). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to define the cut-off values for ARR, PAC, and 24UA to distinguish between PA and EH patients.

Results

Analytical characteristics were in accordance with requested performances. Our results showed excellent correlations between Lumipulse® and our reference methods. We propose cut-off values of 35 pmol/mIU as the ARR, 260 pmol/L for PAC, and 49 nmol/24h for 24UA for predicting PA diagnosis.

Conclusions

Lumipulse® (Fujirebio®) is a reliable alternative for measuring PRC, PAC, and 24UA for predicting PA diagnosis with the use of corresponding cut-off values for each criterion.
Sudden cardiac death after coronary artery bypass graft surgery and role of antiplatelet therapy
Authors: Ch Iftikhar Ali , Chaudhry Azhar , Zehra Mishal , Wu Pei-Tzu , Tahirkheli Mashal , Bai Poonam , Bhaktaram Ananya , Jamal Rahat , Chaudry Sabrina , Amil Faris , Randolph John , Miller Steven , Garrett Jeffrey , Tahirkheli Naeem
Published: February 2025

Background

While coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery is effective in reducing the risk of myocardial infarction and subsequent cardiac events by improving myocardial perfusion, the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) remains notable.

Methods

This retrospective observational study evaluated the efficacy of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in preventing sudden cardiac death (SCD) among patients undergoing CABG surgery at a major U.S. cardiac center (2012–2015). Data was manually extracted from electronic medical records between 23/04/2017 to 30/03/ 2018 and verified for accuracy, with patients categorized into DAPT or aspirin monotherapy groups based on discharge prescriptions.

Results

Of 2,476 patients followed in this post-CABG study, the analysis included 1,005 patients who received aspirin monotherapy (AMT) and 1,458 patients who received dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). AMT group had a significantly higher incidence of SCD compared to those on DAPT (3.1% vs 0.8%; OR = 3.831, 95% CI: 1.961–7.519; p < 0.001). The binary regression model indicated that a higher BMI was associated with an increased risk of SCD (HR = 1.064, 95% CI: 1.012–1.118, p = 0.014). However, patients prescribed P2Y12 antagonists (HR = 0.285, 95% CI: 0.135–0.603, p < 0.001), those with a GFR >  60 ml/min (HR = 0.314, 95% CI: 0.158–0.624, p < 0.001), and those with a higher ejection fraction (HR = 0.962, 95% CI: 0.939–0.986, p = 0.002) were less likely to experience SCD following CABG. A 1 kg/m2 increase in BMI is associated with a 6.4% increase in the risk of SCD. Morbidly obese patients with BMI >  35 were more likely to have experienced SCD than those with BMI < 35 (HR = 2.400, 95% CI: 1.204–4,787; p =  0.013). Similarly, patients with EF > 40% had decreased incidence of SCD compared to those with EF < 40% (HR 0.347, 95% CI:0.158–0.763; p = 0.008). Patients on AMT had higher all-cause (OR = 2.136, 95% CI 1.502–3.038; p < 0.001) and CV mortality (OR = 3.731, 95% CI 2.233–6.235; p < 0.001) but had lower incidence of major bleeding (by drop in hemoglobin criteria) (OR = 0.704, 95% CI: 0.595–0.833; p < 0.001) compared to the DAPT group.

Conclusion

DAPT prescription after CABG improves survival and lowers risk of sudden cardiac death.
Congenital Chylous Ascites - A Rare Case Report
Authors: Sunil Kumar Agarwalla  , Pallavi Priyadarshini  , Jigeesha Das  , Bijayalaxmi Mallick  , Jatadhari Mahar
Published: February 2025

A 42-day-old female infant presented with persisting pedal edema of the dorsum of both feet since birth, which gradually progressed to tense distended abdomen and peri-orbital edema. On further examination, the bilateral pedal edema was pitting type, and per abdomen examination revealed tense distended abdomen with slit-like abdomen and fluid thrill positive.
MODELAGEM HIDRÁULICA APLICADA À ANÁLISE DE RISCOS DE INUNDAÇÃO EM ÁREAS URBANAS BRASILEIRAS: O CASO DA ZONA ESPECIAL DE INTERESSE SOCIAL (ZEIS) DO LAGAMAR, FORTALEZA (NORDESTE DO BRASIL)
Authors: Brito Edmundo Rodrigues de , Bastos Frederico de Holanda , Cordeiro Abner Monteiro Nunes , Silva Ícaro Breno da , Paula Davis Pereira de , Carvalho Rodrigo Guimarães de , Soares Hildebrando dos Santos
Published: February 2025

Os processos de urbanização no Brasil foram responsáveis pela formação de grandes cidades, com marcante desigualdade socioespacial e sem o adequado ordenamento territorial, tendo como resultado inúmeros adensamentos populacionais de elevada vulnerabilidade social situados em áreas de riscos naturais. O presente trabalho analisou a suscetibilidade a eventos de inundação na Zona Especial de Interesse Social do (ZEIS) do Lagamar, situado na cidade de Fortaleza, Nordeste do Brasil. Foi aplicada uma modelagem hídrica no trecho do baixo curso do Riacho São João do Tauape visando identificar as áreas de maior suscetibilidade a eventos de inundação, contribuindo com estratégias de ordenamento territorial e regularização fundiária urbana. Para isso, foram utilizadas series históricas da pluviometria da área, inseridas em modelos hidrológicos (HEC-HMS e HEC-RAS) integrados aos SIGs. O mapeamento gerado mostrou que todas as áreas analisadas ao longo da ZEIS possuem habitações em área de risco de inundação nos diferentes períodos de retorno dos eventos de precipitação máxima com intervalos de 10, 25 e 100 anos. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram o grande potencial da integração das ferramentas de geoprocessamento e modelagem hidrológica no auxílio do planejamento territorial e na tomada de decisão dos gestores municipais.
Promoting Autonomy and Employment of Individuals with Intellectual Disability: The Role of Universities
Authors: Morcillo Juana , Bornman Juan
Published: February 2025

A positive correlation exists between having a university degree and being employed. The opportunity to earn a university degree, however, is challenging for students with intellectual disability, as universities are typically not adapted to their unique higher education needs. This negatively impacts those students’ employment opportunities and, consequently, also their autonomy because employment is often a driver of important life decisions. In response, the University of Castilla-La Mancha in Spain embarked on a program, ‘Incluye e Inserta UCLM’ (‘Inclusion and Labour Insertion at UCLM’), to accommodate students with intellectual disabilities by implementing an accessible university qualification for them. Universities are knowledge-generating centers and should also fulfill a social function. To do so, universities must be in contact with society to determine societal needs and provide some solutions. The abovementioned socially responsive university program offers students with intellectual disabilities a unique opportunity to fulfill their academic and personal growth.
Seseorang yang bergelar sarjana memiliki korelasi positif dengan bagaimana ia dipekerjakan. Namun, kesempatan untuk memperoleh gelar sarjana merupakan tantangan bagi mahasiswa penyandang disabilitas intelektual, karena universitas biasanya tidak disesuaikan dengan kebutuhan unik pendidikan tinggi mereka. Hal ini berdampak negatif terhadap kesempatan kerja bagi penyadang disabilitas intelektual dan juga otonomi mereka, karena pekerjaan seringkali merupakan pendorong keputusan hidup yang penting. Universitas Castilla-La Mancha di Spanyol memulai program 'Incluye e Inserta UCLM' ('Inklusi dan Penyisipan Tenaga Kerja di UCLM') untuk mengakomodasi mahasiswa penyandang disabilitas intelektual melalui penerapan kualifikasi universitas yang dapat diakses oleh mereka. Universitas adalah pusat penghasil pengetahuan dan juga harus memenuhi fungsi sosial. Oleh karena itu, universitas harus berhubungan dengan masyarakat dalam menentukan kebutuhan masyarakat dan memberikan solusi masalah sosial. Program universitas yang tanggap secara sosial ini menawarkan kepada mahasiswa penyandang disabilitas intelektual kesempatan unik untuk memenuhi pertumbuhan akademik dan pribadi mereka.
A Imagem-morrente: Sobre Decasia e Tributes-Pulse, de Bill Morrison
Authors: Marques Vasco
Published: February 2025

Este artigo analisa dois filmes de Bill Morrison (Decasia e Tributes-Pulse), para mostrar como eles permitem conceber a ideia de uma imagem-morrente, isto é: de uma imagem que expõe o envelhecimento e a morte como forças directamente inscritas no seu próprio suporte material (a película). Para fazê-lo, dividimos o texto em três partes. Na primeira, trata-se de situar o cinema de Morrison como uma contestação estética da ontologia da imagem fotográfica de André Bazin, que encara o filme como uma “múmia da mudança” ou como um registo perene das coisas e do tempo. Efectivamente, porque trabalham com imagens extraídas de películas de nitrato muito degradadas, as obras de Morrison acabam por relevar o carácter perecível do objecto fílmico, insurgindo-se assim contra qualquer teoria que sugira a sua imortalidade. Num segundo momento, veremos como Decasia constitui um estudo arqueológico sobre a morte, que procura trazer à superfície da imagem as forças de destruição que jazem no seu fundo. Defenderemos, então, que esse filme consiste na encenação da constante batalha que se trava entre a vida e a morte, configurando por isso um comentário involuntário da metafísica da morte de Georg Simmel, onde os dois termos são definidos como opostos que se co-implicam. É esta mútua imbricação da vida e da morte que Decasia traduz em imagens-morrentes, que, como veremos, desencobrem a morte como uma potência que é tão destrutiva como construtiva, posto que, ao desintegrar a matéria, ela assegura a sua transformação. Por fim, na terceira parte do artigo, mostraremos como Tributes-Pulse coloca as suas imagens-morrentes ao serviço de uma visão da morte que, por contraste com a de Decasia, acentua a sua natureza dissolutiva. Esta visão reflecte-se, aliás, na própria circularidade narrativa do filme, que vai, em suma, da ruína da imagem à imagem da ruína.
Galur Isogenik Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Hasil Penyinaran Ultraviolet dan Potensinya Sebagai Penginduksi Resistensi Padi terhadap Penyakit Hawar Daun Bakteri
Authors: Yuliani Fitria , Giyanto Giyanto , Mutaqin Kikin Hamzah
Published: February 2025

Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae is an important rice disease and may cause 50% plant damage. One approach to manage this disease is using isogenic non-pathogenic strain that can induce plant resistance. This study was conducted to obtain isogenic strains of X. oryzae pv. oryzae through ultraviolet irradiation and evaluate ability of the isolates in inducing plant resistance. Bacteria X. oryzae pv. oryzae were exposed to UV for 3, 5, 10 and 15 min. A total of 99 colonies obtained were selected through pathogenicity tests, followed by confirmation using XOR-F and XOR-R2 primers.  As much as 16 isogenic strain isolates were obtained with the ability to produce  exopolysaccharides (EPS) ranges between 1.4–9.8 mg mL-1 compared to wild-type 6.0 mg mL-1. Five isogenic strains isolates (M313, M57, M101, M1513 and M1515) caused virulence reduction of 92.8–98.6%.  Application of those five isogenic isolates prolonged incubation period of X. oryzae pv. Oryzae, i.e. 6.6–5.4  days compared to the wild-type i.e. 4.8 days after inoculation. Suppression of disease progression was also observed with AUDPC value 615.0-827.5, which was lower than those caused by wild-type and control, i.e.  863.3 and 682.5, respectively. Application of isogenic strain isolates did not affect plant growth but it increased plant productivity.  Isogenic strain M101 was the best isolate with an incubation period of 5.7 days after inoculation, having the lowest AUDPC value (615.0), and yielded dry weight of 100 grains higher (2.8 g) than those of the wild-type (2.0 g).
Corynespora cassiicola Causes Black Spots on Papayas
Authors: Mucharomah Kurniasih , Soesanto Loekas , Mugiastuti Endang
Published: February 2025

Salah satu permasalahan yang dihadapi dalam produksi tanaman pepaya tersebut ialah penyakit noda hitam kelabu yang menyebabkan penampilan buah kurang menarik dan akhirnya menurunkan harga jual. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengisolasi, mengidentifikasi, dan menguji tingkat patogenisitas penyebab penyakit noda hitam pada pepaya varietas California. Identifikasi dilakukan berdasarkan karakter morfologi, sedangkan pengujian in vivo menggunakan rancangan acak lengkap dengan ulangan sebanyak lima kali. Perlakuan yang dicoba ialah letak buah vertikal (pertama, kedua, ketiga, keempat, dan kelima), semua buah diinokulasi cendawan patogen. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa gejala bercak kecil berwarna kekuningan hingga cokelat tua adalah penyakit noda hitam, yang disebabkan oleh cendawan Corynespora cassiicola. Cendawan C. cassiicola mempunyai koloni berwarna cokelat kehitaman, permukaan koloni halus dengan tepian yang rata, dan melengkung seperti beludru. Cendawan C. cassiicola memiliki konidiofor tegak, sedikit bengkok, bersepta, tunggal dan ada yang bercabang, berwarna cokelat, sedangkan konidium tunggal, sedikit bengkok, dan bersepta 2–12. Patogenisitas cendawan ini tergolong sedang. Masa inkubasi tercepat terjadi pada buah dengan letak vertikal keempat, luas serangan tertinggi pada buah dengan letak vertikal pertama, dan keparahan penyakit tertinggi ialah pada buah dengan letak vertikal pertama.
Immunogenicity of Dendritic Cell-Based HPV16 E6/E7 Peptide Vaccines: CTL Activation and Protective Effects
Authors: Indrová Marie , Reiniš M. , Bubeník J. , Jandlová T. , Bieblová J. , Vonka V. , Velek J.
Published: February 2025

We have investigated the capacity of cellular vaccines based on dendritic cells loaded with human HPV16 E6/E7 oncoprotein-derived peptides to induce immune responses in vitro and to elicit protective immunity in a murine experimental model mimicking human HPV16-associated carcinomas. Dendritic cells loaded with the HPV16 E6/E7 peptides exhibiting CTL or Th epitopes (E641-50, E681-90, E698-107, E6130-137, E749-57, and E744-62) were able to stimulate in vitro DNA synthesis in syngeneic H-2b spleen cells. The priming capacity of peptide-loaded BMDC and peptide-loaded dendritic cell lines DC2.4 and JAWS II was compared. It has been found that both peptide-loaded BMDC and established dendritic cell lines can activate the syngeneic responder cells, but the priming capacity of BMDC was substantially higher. In the second set of experiments, we have examined the cytolytic activity of syngeneic spleen cells after repeated activation in vitro with BMDC loaded with HPV16 synthetic peptides containing CTL epitopes. Significant cytotoxic responses against HPV16 E6/E7 antigen-expressing TC-1 targets have been found after repeated in vitro activation with all peptides containing the CTL epitopes. In contrast, peptide E744-62 harbouring both Th and CTL epitopes induced significant cytotoxic responses already after single in vitro activation. This cytotoxic effect could be enhanced with admixture of the E749-57 peptide. Experiments with MHC class I proficient (TC-1, MK16-IFNγ) and deficient (MK16) target cells revealed that the dendritic cells loaded with the E6/E7 HPV16 peptides activated CTLs in vitro, but not the other cytolytic effector mechanisms. The effectiveness of the peptide-loaded BMDC-based cellular vaccines was also investigated in vivo. C57BL/6 (H-2b) mice were immunized with various peptide-loaded BMDC and subsequently challenged with TC-1 cells. The strongest protective effect was achieved with the BMDC loaded with the peptide E744-62 harbouring both CTL and Th epitopes. Mice immunized with the E744-62 peptide remained tumour-free after s.c. transplantation of the TC-1 cells and exhibited long-lasting protective immunity, whereas the mice immunized with E681-90 and E749-57 peptides did not remain tumour-free and exhibited only partial inhibition of tumour growth detectable as depression of the tumour growth curves.
The Role of NK1.1+ Cells in the Protection against MHC Class I+ HPV16-Associated Tumours
Authors: Šímová Jana , Bubeník J. , Bieblová J. , Jandlová T.
Published: February 2025

Depletion of NK1.1+ cells by repeated i.p. injections of PK136 antibody significantly enhanced growth of MHC class I+ tumours in syngeneic mice. Depletion starting before tumour transplantation or on the day of transplantation substantially accelerated tumour growth; depletion starting on day 7 or 14 after tumour transplantation was without any effect. These results indicate that the NK1.1+ cells play an important inhibitory role during the early phase of the growth of some MHC class I+ tumours. Since the relevant target for NK cells is a "missing self" signal, absence of the MHC class I molecules, the NK cells cannot be expected to directly inhibit the growth of the MHC class I+ tumours. The results indicate that the effects of nonNK cells or indirect effects mediated by NK cell interactions and release of cytokines were responsible for the results.
Capital Structure and Financial Performance of Quoted Oil and Gas Companies in Nigeria
Authors: Irene Ehimare , Abusomwan Rachael E. , Jackson-Akhigbe Beauty E.
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of capital structure on the financial performance of quoted oil and gas companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group. Specifically, it examines the effects of total debt ratio, long-term debt ratio, short-term debt ratio, and equity ratio on the market value of firms, measured by Tobin's Q, over the period from 2014 to 2023. The research utilizes a longitudinal approach with a sample of eight publicly traded oil and gas companies, employing data obtained from annual reports. A random effects model, analyzed through panel least squares regression, was used to assess the relationships between the financial ratios and firm performance. The results revealed that total debt ratio positively influences firm performance, indicating that higher total debt is associated with increased firm market value. Conversely, long-term and short-term debt ratios exhibit negative impacts on firm performance as measured by Tobin's Q, suggesting that excessive long-term and short-term debt can reduce market value. The equity ratio shows a significant positive relationship with Tobin's Q, implying that a higher equity ratio enhances firm performance.
Auditor Rotation and Financial Reporting: A Moderating Role of Corporate Governance in Nigeria
Authors: Kwaghkule Philip , Jackson-Akhigbe Beauty E. , Abusomwan Rachael E.
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this research paper was to examine the moderating effect of corporate governance on the relationship between auditor change and financial reporting in Nigeria. The study sample six (6) listed health and pharmaceutical Companies in the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) for the period of 2012 to 2023. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and least square regression technique. The results shows that auditor rotation exerted a positive and insignificant effect on financial reporting, audit fees exerted a negative and significant effect on financial reporting at 1% level of significance while the moderating effect between auditor rotation and corporate governance on financial reporting was positive and insignificant. The study recommended that relevant stakeholders of health and pharmaceutical companies should ensure that there is frequency of auditor rotation towards improving financial reporting overtime, and management should comply with the corporate governance code of conduct for ensuring quality financial reporting.
Effect of sex ratio on the life history traits of an important invasive species, Spodoptera frugiperda
Authors: Wu Su-Ran , Wang Hui , Zhao Chun-Jie , Xiong Yan , Ren Jun-Hua
Published: February 2025

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is a dangerous migratory pest. Evaluating the effect of sex ratio on the FAW offspring population is particularly important for field control. In this study, five different sex ratio treatments (female/male = 3:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3) were conducted to investigate the effects of sex ratio on the life history traits of FAW. The results showed that sex ratio significantly affected lifetime fecundity, developmental duration of the preadult stage, hatch rate, and emergence rate but had no effect on longevity of parental and offspring adults, larval duration, pupation rate, or number of eggs/moth of offspring. The lifetime fecundity and hatch rate of parental adults and the number of adult offspring/moth were the lowest when the sex ratio was 3:1, while the lifetime fecundity and number of adult offspring/moth were the highest and pupation duration was the shortest when the sex ratio was 1:1. The number of eggs/moth of parental adults and total adults in the F1 generation were higher in male-biased groups than in female-biased groups, and male annihilation appears to be a more effective control strategy. These findings have implications for improving laboratory rearing, population forecasting, and control of FAW in the field.
Efficacy of alginate-coated gold nanoparticles against antibiotics-resistant Staphylococcus and Streptococcus pathogens of acne origins
Authors: Abbas Hanan A. , Taha Ali A. , Sulaiman Ghassan M. , Al Ali Amer , Al Shmrany Humood , Stamatis Haralambos , Mohammed Hamdoon A. , Khan Riaz A.
Published: February 2025

Acne is a serious multifactorial inflammatory disease that leads to significant and long-lasting changes. The widespread occurrence of bacterial acne and the excessive use of antibiotics to treat it have increased resistance to antibiotic treatment and led researchers to seek and develop newer antimicrobial agents suitable for various medical purposes. In this study, alginate-coated gold nanoparticles (GANPs), synthesized by the previously reported known method, using sodium alginate and gold salt, investigated the efficacy of the GANPs against various clinical isolates of Staphylococcus, i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus lentus, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, and Streptococcus
thoraltensis, which were all obtained from patients suffering from acne conditions. The results showed that the GANPs had antibacterial efficacy against all the acne-isolated bacteria. The GANP activity against bacterial resistance suggested that metal-based nanoparticulate materials are a promising alternative for treating multidrug-resistant microorganisms.
Battling COVID-19 leveraging nanobiotechnology: Gold and silver nanoparticle–B-escin conjugates as SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors
Authors: Zatla Ilyes , Boublenza Lamia
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic, an unprecedented global health crisis, has thrust humanity into a relentless battle with a variety of treatments and vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Recent developments in nanotechnology have garnered significant interest in the application of metallic nanoparticles (NPs); specifically, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have demonstrated antimicrobial and antiviral properties. This study investigates the molecular interactions between the receptor binding domains of five SARS-CoV-2 spike protein variants (Alpha, Beta, Delta, Omicron, and Gamma) and the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, followed by the docking of AuNPs and AgNPs and the natural compound Beta-escin onto these complexes. As well as the inspection of both NPs against the virus main protease (Mpro) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). Comprehensive computational simulations utilizing Autodock 4.2 and HDOCK server were employed to evaluate the binding affinities of these NPs toward key viral targets, SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, RdRp, and the spike glycoprotein. The results revealed that both AgNPs and AuNPs exhibited successful binding to the active pockets of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, with slightly varying binding energies. In contrast, for RdRp, AgNPs demonstrated superior binding affinity compared to AuNPs, with differences in the residues involved in the binding pocket. AuNPs exhibited stronger binding affinities in the spike protein pocket. We also determined robust binding affinities between ACE2 and the spike variants, with the Omicron variant exhibiting the highest affinity. Subsequent docking of AuNPs and AgNPs revealed strong interactions with all ACE2–spike complexes, with AuNPs showing slightly higher affinities. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the interactions between NPs and viral proteins, shedding light on their mechanisms of action and their potential to offer innovative solutions for combating infectious diseases, particularly those caused by SARS-CoV-2.
Neurodegenerative diseases and neuroinflammation-induced apoptosis
Authors: Huang Shi , Lu Yaxin , Fang Wanzhen , Huang Yanjiao , Li Qiang , Xu Zhiliang
Published: February 2025

Neuroinflammation represents a critical pathway in the brain for the clearance of foreign bodies and the maintenance of homeostasis. When the neuroinflammatory process is dysregulate, such as the over-activation of microglia, which results in the excessive accumulation of free oxygen and inflammatory factors in the brain, among other factors, it can lead to an imbalance in homeostasis and the development of various diseases. Recent research has indicated that the development of numerous neurodegenerative diseases is closely associated with neuroinflammation. The pathogenesis of neuroinflammation in the brain is intricate, involving alterations in numerous genes and proteins, as well as the activation and inhibition of signaling pathways. Furthermore, excessive inflammation can result in neuronal cell apoptosis, which can further exacerbate the extent of the disease. This article presents a summary of recent studies on the relationship between neuronal apoptosis caused by excessive neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. The aim is to identify the link between the two and to provide new ideas and targets for exploring the pathogenesis, as well as the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Boundary contact problems with regard to friction of couple-stress viscoelasticity for inhomogeneous anisotropic bodies (non-coercive, quasi-static cases)
Authors: Gachechiladze Roland , Gachechiladze Avtandil
Published: February 2025

In this paper, quasi-statical boundary contact problems of couple-stress viscoelasticity for inhomogeneous anisotropic bodies with regard to friction are investigated. Non-coercive cases considered, when a friction force acts on the entire boundary of a viscoelastic body. The posed boundary-contact problem equivalently reduced to a spatial variational inequality. After factorization of the main spaces with respect to the vector space of the function of generalized rigid displacements, the necessary condition for the existence of solutions is obtained. This condition, under some additional assumptions, becomes a sufficient condition for the existence of solutions.
Constructing infinite families of number fields with given indices from quintinomials
Authors: Fadil Lhoussain El , Kchit Omar
Published: February 2025

In this paper, for any rational prime p and for a fixed positive integer νp
, we provide infinite families of number fields defined by quintinomials satisfying νp
(i(K)) = νp
. We illustrate our results by some computational examples.
Explicit formulae for the Drazin inverse of the sum of two matrices
Authors: Zhang Daochang , Zhao Yue , Mosić Dijana
Published: February 2025

In this article, we construct a new explicit formula for the Drazin inverse of a sum of two matrices P, Q ∈ ℂ
n×n
under conditions weaker than those used in some recent papers, and modify an invalid formula in [Dopazo et al.: Block representations for the Drazin inverse of anti-triangular matrices, Filomat 30 (2016), 3897–3906]. Furthermore, we apply our results to obtain some new representations for the Drazin inverse of a 2 × 2 block matrix. Some numerical examples are given to illustrate our results.
Orbital Hausdorff dependence and stability of the solution to differential equations with variable structure and non-instantaneous impulses
Authors: Yang Dan , Wang JinRong
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we investigate the orbital Hausdorff continuous dependence and stability of the solution to differential equations with variable structure and non-instantaneous impulses. The concepts of orbital Hausdorff continuous dependence and stability are used to characterize the relations of solution corresponding to the impulsive moments and the difference between the impulsive moments and the junction points in the sense of the Hausdorff distance. Then, we establish sufficient conditions to guarantee the orbital Hausdorff continuous dependence and stability on their respective trajectories. Finally, two examples are given to illustrate our theoretical results.
Muscarinic receptor activation preferentially inhibits rebound in vulnerable dopaminergic neurons
Authors: Beaver Megan L. , Evans Rebekah C.
Published: February 2025

Dopaminergic subpopulations of the substantia nigrapars compacta(SNc) differentially degenerate in Parkinson’s disease and are characterized by unique electrophysiological properties. The vulnerable population expresses a T-type calcium channel-mediated afterdepolarization (ADP) and shows rebound activity upon release from inhibition, whereas the resilient population does not have an ADP and is slower to fire after hyperpolarization. This rebound activity can trigger dopamine release in the striatum, an important component of basal ganglia function. Using whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology on ex vivo slices from adult mice of both sexes, we find that muscarinic activation with the non-selective muscarinic agonist Oxotremorine inhibits rebound activity more strongly in vulnerable vs resilient SNc neurons. Here, we show that this effect depends on the direct activation of muscarinic receptors on the SNc dopaminergic neurons. Through a series of pharmacological and transgenic knock-out experiments, we tested whether the muscarinic inhibition of rebound was mediated through the canonical rebound-related ion channels: T-type calcium channels, hyperpolarization-activated cation channels (HCN), and A-type potassium channels. We find that muscarinic receptor activation inhibits HCN-mediated current (Ih) in vulnerable SNc neurons, but that Ihactivity is not necessary for the muscarinic inhibition of rebound activity. Similarly, we find that Oxotremorine inhibits rebound activity independently of T-type calcium channels and A-type potassium channels. Together these findings reveal new principles governing acetylcholine and dopamine interactions, showing that muscarinic receptors directly affect SNc rebound activity in the midbrain at the somatodendritic level and differentially modify information processing in distinct SNc subpopulations.

Significance StatementDopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigrapars compacta(SNc) can be divided into functional subpopulations with distinct basal ganglia connectivity and different degeneration patterns in Parkinson’s disease. We show that the vulnerable and resilient subpopulations of SNc dopaminergic neurons are differentially modulated by muscarinic receptor activation. Specifically, muscarinic receptor activation inhibits rebound activity more strongly in the vulnerable SNc neurons than in the resilient. We find that this inhibition occurs through a non-canonical rebound-related pathway and is not mediated through the channels best known for modulating rebound in midbrain dopaminergic neurons. These findings are important because they reveal novel acetylcholine-dopamine interactions that occur in the midbrain and affect information processing in distinct basal ganglia circuits.
Heterogeneity of NeuN Protein Distribution as a Marker of Morphological Personalization of Cerebral Cortex Neurons: an Experimental Study
Authors: Golubev Arkady M. , Lyubomudrov Maxim A. , Babkina Anastasia S. , Tsokolaeva Zoya I.
Published: February 2025

Aim. To identify personalized morphological neuronal phenotypes based on the distribution pattern of the neuronal protein NeuN in the cerebral cortex layers.

Materials and Methods. A histologic study of the cerebral cortex was performed in rats (N=10). Tissue sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and the neuronal nuclear protein NeuN was visualized by immunohistochemical staining. Analysis was performed by microscopy and image analysis software.

Results. NeuN immunohistochemical staining revealed distinct localization and intensity patterns within cortical neurons. Contrary to the definition of NeuN as a nuclear neuronal protein, its localization was observed in both the nucleus and cytoplasm in most neurons. The following neuronal phenotypes were identified based on NeuN staining patterns: 1) Neurons with stained nuclei but unstained cytoplasm; 2) Neurons with stained cytoplasm but unstained nuclei; 3) Neurons with stained nuclei and cytoplasm; 4) Fully stained neurons with no visible nuclei; 5) Neurons with stained processes (dendrites/axons). A significant difference was found between mean intensity of NeuN-positive neurons depending on the localization in the layers of the cerebral cortex.

Conclusion. Given the critical biological role of NeuN, the identified neuronal phenotypes based on NeuN localization warrant further research as they may reflect the functional states of neurons. The interpretation of the absence of NeuN staining as a marker of neuronal damage is not scientifically justified. Future studies using NeuN immunohistochemical staining should consider not only the total number of NeuN-positive neurons, but also their distinct phenotypes.
LiFTS: Equitably Implementing a Social Needs Screening Program
Authors: Bouchelle Zoe , Luke Michael , Menko Stephanie G. , Kolodgie Nina , Capriola Danielle , Bowers Megan , Scribano Philip V. , Vasan Aditi
Published: February 2025

INTRODUCTION

Poverty and associated health-related social needs can negatively impact child health. As pediatric health systems implement social needs screening programs, they should aim to measure and promote equal rates of screening across demographic groups and to support families in connecting to resources.

METHODS

We describe implementation of the Linking Families to Support (LiFTS) quality improvement initiative, an inpatient social needs screening and support program. Our objectives were to (1) implement screening across inpatient units, (2) promote equal screening rates across demographic groups, and (3) optimize rates of resource connection. LiFTS was implemented at a quaternary care children’s hospital. Families of children admitted to participating units during the study period (September 2022-February 2024) were eligible for screening.

RESULTS

Over the 18-month project period, we implemented screening in 9 inpatient units. Of 2582 eligible caregivers, 1741 (67.4%) were offered screening. Of these caregivers, 667 (38.3%) declined screening and 1074 (61.6%) completed screening. A total of 496 families (46.2%) reported 1 or more social needs. In analyses stratified by child race, ethnicity, insurance status, and preferred language, we observed equal rates of screening. Among 233 families reached in follow-up, 183 (78.5%) recalled receiving resources and 133 (57.1%) reported connecting to 1 or more resources.

DISCUSSION

Our interdisciplinary team successfully implemented social needs screening across 9 inpatient units, achieved equal rates of screening, and measured caregiver-reported rates of resource connection. Our approach could guide other health systems as they implement social needs screening programs that meet regulatory requirements, prioritize equality in screening, and support resource connection.
Is Ethnobiologist Training at Risk? Challenges of a Brazilian Graduate Program
Authors: Brito-Junior Valdir , Alves Ana Clara , Quirino Ana Maria S. Quirino , Cantalice Anibal Silva , Magalhães Arthur , Avelino Camile , Santana Carlos , Braga Eduardo , Ribeiro Francisco Igor , Boldorini Gabriel , Nascimento Geraldo , Silva Lima Ingrid , Moura Jeferson , Brito Joyce , Amanda Medeiros de Souza Julia , Rangel Juliana , Silva Maria Lorena , Mata Paula Thayanne , Gusmão Reginaldo , Silva Tamires , Albert Tatiani , Sousa Thiago , Beatriz Rayanna , Santos Rayane Karoline Silva , Santos Yasmim
Published: February 2025

The Graduate Program in Ethnobiology and Nature Conservation (PPGEtno, an acronym in Portuguese) was established in 2011 at the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco (UFRPE, an acronym in Portuguese) in collaboration with other institutions in Northeast Brazil. PPGEtno addressed the urgent need to train professionals sensitive to biodiversity conservation issues through an interdisciplinary approach that values traditional knowledge and the relationship between people and nature. Despite its success, PPGEtno faces administrative challenges due to regulatory constraints, which restrict coordination roles only UFRPE faculty members to hold, which is currently limited to just five faculty members from the UFRPE, the program’s host institution. The lack of faculty members aligned with social-ecological thinking at UFRPE exacerbates the situation, putting the program at risk of extinction or reduction to a research line within another graduate program. PPGEtno's academic output is significant, with 96 graduates, 1,473 published articles, and important contributions to Ethnobiology and Ecology. Its publications include high-impact journals and cover a wide range of topics. The program's closure would represent an immeasurable loss for research on biodiversity and human-nature interactions. In this manuscript, we demonstrate the impacts that the absence of PPGEtno could cause, both theoretically and practically. The continuation of PPGEtno is vital for advancing Ethnobiology as a scientific discipline, serving a critical role in training ethnobiologists and fostering new knowledge on biodiversity conservation and human-nature relationships in Brazil and across Latin America.
German Colonial Memory in the Gbaya Oral Tradition
Authors: Amina Djouldé Christelle
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to present the colonial memory among the Gbaya community through the lens of oral tradition. Based on a historical and cultural approach, I argue songs and biographical epic tales are sources of information on the Gbaya resistance to German colonization and on the colonial experience and domination. Contextual and cross-checked analysis allowed demonstration that, by inventing their version of colonization, the Gbaya construct a mnemonic mechanism that is both supportive of the imperialist image of German colonization and also the Gbaya’s glorious warrior past. Particularly, the memorization of colonial domination is analyzed from the Gbaya perspective. A multimethod approach is used in combining historical sources, oral-tradition techniques, literature, material culture, biographical methods, interviews with local people, as well as my previous experience in the field. The paper proposes an innovative analysis of our understanding of German colonial domination according to the colonized themselves, based on orality as their preferred mechanism of knowledge production.
First record of the genus Discartemon Pfeiffer, 1856 (Eupulmonata: Streptaxidae) from Laos, with description of a new species
Authors: Sutcharit Chirasak , Somvongsa Chanvilay , Malavong Banchai , Janjai Teerangkul , Jeratthitikul Ekgachai , Jirapatrasilp Parin , Likhitrakarn Natdanai , Srisonchai Ruttapon , Inkhavilay Khamla
Published: February 2025

The streptaxid snail genus Discartemon has a narrow distribution range in the Malay Peninsula and Greater Sunda Island. This study reveals the first record of the genus Discartemon from Laos, with the discovery of Discartemon feuangensis Sutcharit & Inkhavilay, sp. nov., which is described based on specimens collected from the limestone karsts in Feuang District, Vientiane Province. This new species differs clearly from all congeners, with the diagnostic features of a flattened shell with slightly sunken spire and without any apertural barriers. This finding also expands the distribution range of the genus to the northern part of Indochina.
Painting the Mediterranean Phoenician: On Canaanite-Phoenician Trade-nets
Authors: Regev Dalit
Published: February 2025

Painting the Mediterranean Phoenician focuses on the Canaanite-Phoenician economic systems that predominated in and determined Mediterranean history. Phoenician trade networks were sophisticated and elaborate operations that required a highly developed society and institutions in order to spread and be maintained. By tracking the manufacture, use, and shipment routes of Phoenician products, primarily those traded in amphorae and bottles but also fine-ware and their associated assemblages, a new map of Mediterranean connectivity and interrelations emerges, whose routes, operations and cultural affiliation lasted a long time. The Phoenician trade-nets are presented geographically, with special attention paid to the traceable product networks involving wine, salted fish, or perfumed oils.