bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening and Application of DNA Aptamers for Heparin-Binding Protein
Authors: Zhou Xi , Cao Yingying , Huang Xiaocui , Qiu Shuqian , Xiang Xinran , Niu Huimin , Chen Li , Wang Shuiliang , Lin Zhenyu , Zhang Shenghang
Published: April 2024

Rapid detection of heparin-binding protein (HBP) is essential for timely intervention in sepsis cases. Current detection techniques are usually antibody-based immunological methods, which have certain problems, such as complexity and slow detection, and fall short in meeting the urgency of clinical needs. The application of an aptamer can address these concerns well. In this study, HBP-specific DNA aptamers were screened first. Among which, Apt-01, Apt−02, and Apt−13 had a high affinity for HBP, exhibiting impressive KD values of 3.42, 1.44, and 1.04 nmol/L, respectively. Then, the aptamer of HBP and its partially complementary primer probe were combined to form double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and synthesize a circular DNA template. The template is complementary to the primer probe, but due to the presence of dsDNA, ExoIII cleaves C2-13 as an RCA primer probe, rendering the template unable to recognize the primer probe and preventing the RCA reaction from proceeding. When the target is present, it competes with the adapter for recognition and releases C2-13, exposing its 3′ end. After initiating the RCA at room temperature and reacting with SYBR GreenII at 37 °C for 20 min, fluorescence changes can be observed and quantitatively analyzed at a 530 nm wavelength, achieving quantitative biological analysis. Apt-01 was used to develop a fluorescent biosensor for HBP detection, which exhibited a good linear range (0.01 nmol/L to 10 nmol/L) and detection limit (0.0056 nmol/L). This advancement holds the potential to lay a solid groundwork for pioneering sensitive and specific methods for HBP detection and to significantly enhance the diagnostic processes for sepsis.
Inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 by Dietary Antioxidants in THP-1 Macrophages and Sera from Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Latronico Tiziana , Petraglia Tania , Sileo Carmela , Bilancia Domenico , Rossano Rocco , Liuzzi Grazia Maria
Published: April 2024

Polyphenols, the main antioxidants of diet, have shown anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activities. Here, we compared the effects of four polyphenolic compounds on ROS production and on the levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9, which represent important pathogenetic factors of breast cancer. THP-1 differentiated macrophages were activated by LPS and simultaneously treated with different doses of a green tea extract (GTE), resveratrol (RSV), curcumin (CRC) and an olive fruit extract (oliplus). By using the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, we found that all of the tested compounds showed antioxidant activity in vitro. In addition, GTE, RSV and CRC were able to counteract ROS production induced by H2O2 in THP-1 cells. As assessed by a zymographic analysis of THP-1 supernatants and by an “in-gel zymography” of a pool of sera from patients with breast cancer, the antioxidant compounds used in this study inhibited both the activity and expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 through different mechanisms related to their structures and to their ability to scavenge ROS. The results of this study suggest that the used antioxidants could be promising agents for the prevention and complementary treatment of breast cancer and other diseases in which MMPs play a pivotal role.
A Two-Level Highlighting Technique Based on Gaze Direction to Improve Target Pointing and Selection on a Big Touch Screen
Authors: Monthe Valéry Marcial , Duval Thierry
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we present an approach to improve pointing methods and target selection on tactile human–machine interfaces. This approach defines a two-level highlighting technique (TLH) based on the direction of gaze for target selection on a touch screen. The technique uses the orientation of the user’s head to approximate the direction of his gaze and uses this information to preselect the potential targets. An experimental system with a multimodal interface has been prototyped to assess the impact of TLH on target selection on a touch screen and compare its performance with that of traditional methods (mouse and touch). We conducted an experiment to assess the effectiveness of our proposition in terms of the rate of selection errors made and time for completion of the task. We also made a subjective estimation of ease of use, suitability for selection, confidence brought by the TLH, and contribution of TLH to improving the selection of targets. Statistical results show that the proposed TLH significantly reduces the selection error rate and the time to complete tasks.
iPlan: A Platform for Constructing Localized, Reduced-Form Models of Land-Use Impacts
Authors: Ruis Andrew R. , Barford Carol , Brohinsky Jais , Tan Yuanru , Bougie Matthew , Cai Zhiqiang , Lark Tyler J. , Williamson Shaffer David
Published: April 2024

To help young people understand socio-environmental systems and develop the confidence that meaningful action can be taken to address socio-environmental problems, young people need interactive simulations that enable them to take consequential actions in a familiar context and see the results. This can be achieved through reduced-form models with appropriate user interfaces, but it is a significant challenge to construct a system capable of producing educational models of socio-environmental systems that are localizable and customizable but accessible to educators and learners. In this paper, we present iPlan, a free, online educational software application designed to enable educators and middle- and high-school-aged learners to create custom, localized land-use simulations that can be used to frame, explore, and address complex land-use problems. We describe in detail the software application and its underlying computational models, and we present robust evidence that the accuracy of iPlan simulations is appropriate for educational contexts and preliminary evidence that educators are able to produce simulations suitable for their pedagogical goals and learner populations.
Body Image, Nutrition, and Mental Health
Authors: Himmerich Hubertus , Mirzaei Khadijeh
Published: April 2024

Classical examples of disorders associated with body image disturbances are eating disorders (EDs) such as anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN), as well as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) [...]
Changes in the Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients Undergoing Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
Authors: Arteaga-Muller Giovanna Yazmín , Flores-Treviño Samantha , Bocanegra-Ibarias Paola , Robles-Espino Diana , Garza-González Elvira , Fabela-Valdez Graciela Catalina , Camacho-Ortiz Adrián
Published: April 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive loss of renal function in which gut dysbiosis is involved. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) may be a promising alternative for restoring gut microbiota and treating CKD. This study evaluated the changes in CKD progression in patients treated with FMT. Patients with diabetes and/or hypertension with CKD clinical stages 2, 3, and 4 in this single-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial (NCT04361097) were randomly assigned to receive either FMT or placebo capsules for 6 months. Laboratory and stool metagenomic analyses were performed. A total of 28 patients were included (15 FMT and 13 placebo). Regardless of CKD stages, patients responded similarly to FMT treatment. More patients (53.8%) from the placebo group progressed to CKD than the FMT group (13.3%). The FMT group maintained stable renal function parameters (serum creatinine and urea nitrogen) compared to the placebo group. Adverse events after FMT treatment were mild or moderate gastrointestinal symptoms. The abundance of Firmicutes and Actinobacteria decreased whereas Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria and Roseburia spp. increased in the FMT group. CKD patients showed less disease progression after FMT administration. The administration of oral FMT in patients with CKD is a safe strategy, does not represent a risk, and has potential benefits.
Evidence That Skeletal Muscles Modulate HDL-Cholesterol in Metabolic Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Lonardo Maria Serena , Guida Bruna , Cacciapuoti Nunzia , Chiurazzi Martina , Pacella Daniela , Cataldi Mauro
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate whether skeletal muscle (SM) mass correlates with plasma lipids in metabolic healthy young adults. The study was designed as a retrospective observational monocentric study. Data on plasma lipids and SM mass of subjects attending our institution from 1999 to 2014 were analyzed. Inclusion criteria were being 18–45 years old and in apparently good health. SM mass was evaluated by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) using the equation proposed by Janssen and normalized to height as skeletal muscle index (SMI: SM mass/height2). The association between SMI and plasma lipids levels was examined using a crude and adjusted linear regression model including age, sex, BMI and waist circumference as additional covariates. The study population consisted of 450 subjects (273 females) without metabolic syndrome (12.2% with normal body weight, 33.1% overweight, and 54.7% with obesity). SMI, total-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and Triglycerides were higher, whereas HDL-cholesterol was lower in overweight and obese patients as compared with normal weight subjects. SMI was inversely associated with HDL-cholesterol in female patients with obesity but not in male patients with obesity, in normal- or over-weight subjects (p < 0.05). These results suggest that changes in SM mass occurring in obesity could have a role in worsening lipid profile with special reference to HDL-cholesterol.
Bean Consumption during Childhood Is Associated with Improved Nutritional Outcomes in the First Two Years of Life
Authors: Choudhary Divya , Rideout Todd C. , Millen Amy E. , Wen Xiaozhong
Published: April 2024

Bean consumption during childhood may play a role in promoting early-life health given their high nutritional quality. To examine the associations of children’s bean consumption with the socio-demographic characteristics of the child and mother and the child’s nutrient intake, we analyzed data from the WIC-ITFPS-2, which followed children and their mothers at 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 18, and 24 months (m) following birth. Caregivers (mostly mothers) responded to an interview-administered 24 h recall on their child’s dietary intake at each time point. The intake of dried beans, chili, yellow beans, and lima beans was quantified. Correlate measures included socio-demographic characteristics. Outcome measures of interest focused on the intake of macronutrients (grams and % kcals) and micronutrients at 11 (infancy) and 24 m (toddler) only. To ensure statistical power, we only examined the associations of dried beans and chili with socio-demographics (Chi-square tests) and nutritional outcomes (ANOVA) at 11 and 24 m. The proportion of children who consumed dried beans or chili was very low in the first 6 m of age, started to increase at 7 m (1.2% and 0.4%) and 11 m (4.9% and 2.3%), and reached a high level at 18 m (10.5%) and 24 m (5.9%), respectively. Consumption of yellow or lima beans was rare (<0.1%). At 11 and 24 m, dried bean consumption was higher in children who were White (vs. Black). Dried bean and chili consumption was higher in children who were of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity (vs. non-Hispanic or non-Latino ethnicity). Children who consumed dried beans and chili at 11 or 24 m had a higher intake of total energy, protein, total fiber, potassium, folate, and magnesium compared with non-consumers. The bean consumption was low amongst children, differed by race and ethnicity, and was associated with improved macro- and micronutrient intake in children at 11 and 24 m.
Computational Optical Scanning Holography
Authors: Yoneda Naru , Liu Jung-Ping , Matoba Osamu , Saita Yusuke , Nomura Takanori
Published: April 2024

Holographic techniques are indispensable tools for modern optical engineering. Over the past two decades, research about incoherent digital holography has continued to attract attention. Optical scanning holography (OSH) can obtain incoherent holograms using single-pixel detection and structured illumination with Fresnel zone patterns (FZPs). Particularly by changing the size of a detector, OSH can also obtain holograms under coherently illuminated conditions. Since 1979, OSH has continuously evolved. According to the evolution of semiconductor technology, spatial light modulators (SLMs) come to be useful for various imaging fields. By using SLM techniques for OSH, the practicality of OSH is improved. These SLM-based OSH methods are termed computational OSH (COSH). In this review, the configurations, recording and reconstruction methods, and proposed applications of COSH are reviewed.
Genome-Wide Analysis of the WRKY Transcription Factor Family in Roses and Their Putative Role in Defence Signalling in the Rose–Blackspot Interaction
Authors: Domes Helena Sophia , Debener Thomas
Published: April 2024

WRKY transcription factors are important players in plant regulatory networks, where they control and integrate various physiological processes and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. Here, we analysed six rose genomes of 5 different species (Rosa chinensis, R. multiflora, R. roxburghii, R. sterilis, and R. rugosa) and extracted a set of 68 putative WRKY genes, extending a previously published set of 58 WRKY sequences based on the R. chinensis genome. Analysis of the promoter regions revealed numerous motifs related to induction by abiotic and, in some cases, biotic stressors. Transcriptomic data from leaves of two rose genotypes inoculated with the hemibiotrophic rose black spot fungus Diplocarpon rosae revealed the upregulation of 18 and downregulation of 9 of these WRKY genes after contact with the fungus. Notably, the resistant genotype exhibited the regulation of 25 of these genes (16 upregulated and 9 downregulated), while the susceptible genotype exhibited the regulation of 20 genes (15 upregulated and 5 downregulated). A detailed RT–qPCR analysis of RcWRKY37, an orthologue of AtWRKY75 and FaWRKY1, revealed induction patterns similar to those of the pathogenesis-related (PR) genes induced in salicylic acid (SA)-dependent defence pathways in black spot inoculation experiments. However, the overexpression of RcWRKY37 in rose petals did not induce the expression of any of the PR genes upon contact with black spot. However, wounding significantly induced the expression of RcWRKY37, while heat, cold, or drought did not have a significant effect. This study provides the first evidence for the role of RcWRKY37 in rose signalling cascades and highlights the differences between RcWRKY37 and AtWRKY75. These results improve our understanding of the regulatory function of WRKY transcription factors in plant responses to stress factors. Additionally, they provide foundational data for further studies.
Dissecting Genotype by Environment Interactions in Moroccan Wheat: An Advanced Biplot and Heatmap Analysis Unveiling Agronomic, Quality Traits, and Genotypic Stability for Tailored Breeding Strategies
Authors: Hnizil Oussama , Baidani Aziz , Khlila Ilham , Taghouti Mouna , Nsarellah Nasserelhaq , Amamou Ali
Published: April 2024

This five-year study (2016–2021) across diverse Moroccan agro-climatic zones investigated genotype by environment (G × E) interactions in wheat, focusing on variations in agronomic traits and quality attributes such as protein and gluten content. Significant environmental effects were observed on key traits, like yield, thousand kernel weight (TKW), and spikes per square meter (Spk/m2), highlighting environmental factors’ role in wheat yield variability. In the Tassaout (TST) location, notable genotypic effects emerged for traits like biomass, underscoring genetic factors’ importance in specific contexts, while in Sidi El Aidi (SEA) and Marchouch (MCH), genotypic effects on yield and its components were predominantly absent, indicating a more substantial environmental influence. These findings illustrate the complexity of G × E interactions and the need for breeding strategies considering genetic potential and environmental adaptability, especially given the trade-offs between yield enhancement and quality maintenance. Insights from the biplot and heatmap analyses enhanced the understanding of genotypes’ dynamic interactions with environmental factors, establishing a basis for strategic genotype selection and management to optimize wheat yield and quality. This research contributes to sustainable wheat breeding in Morocco, aligning with global efforts to adapt wheat breeding strategies to changing climatic conditions.
The Impact of Feed Composition on Entrainer Selection in the Extractive Distillation Process
Authors: Li Qunsheng , Wu Qingpeng , Zhao Shuang , Pang Yiwen , Yang Zhe , Hu Nan
Published: April 2024

The selection of entrainers primarily focuses on their ability to alter the relative volatility. However, the impact of feed composition on entrainer selection has often been overlooked. In this study, we conducted two case analyses of the minimum azeotropic mixtures in the ethyl acetate–ethanol and acetone–methanol systems to explore how the feed composition influences the entrainer selection when aiming for maximum economic efficiency. Additionally, the impact of the entrainer type (positive or reverse) on the economic benefits was also investigated. The cases revealed that economic benefits will be notably enhanced when the selected entrainer preferentially targets and removes the low-content component as the light key component. For the two cases studied, when the feed composition was 0.2–0.8, compared to preferentially separating the high-content component, preferentially separating the lower-content component resulted in a reduction in energy consumption by more than 24.14% and 22.72%, respectively. The results show that the ideal entrainer should be capable of converting the higher-content component in the feed into the heavy key component.
Beware of Bipolar Transurethral Resection of Prostate in Patients with Previously Inserted Metallic Prostate Stapling Devices
Authors: Liu Jianliang , Lawrentschuk Nathan , Woon Dixon T. S.
Published: April 2024

Metallic prostate stapling (e.g., UroLift) is a minimally invasive treatment option for men with bladder outlet obstruction from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While it provides rapid relief and preserves sexual function, unexpected interactions with other medical devices can compromise surgical procedures. In this letter, we highlight five cases where stapled metallic implants resulted in damage to bipolar energy device during transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and stimulation of obturator nerve. Laser may also reflect off metallic prostate implants which can result in laser equipment malfunction. Monopolar TURP should be considered in patients with existing metallic prostate implants who need further transurethral surgery for obstructive BPH to prevent bipolar instrument damage and obturator kick.
Dryland Performance Tests Are Not Good Predictors of World Aquatics Points in Elite Male and Female Swimmers
Authors: Selvamoorthy Ragul , Macgregor Lewis J. , Donald Neil , Hunter Angus M.
Published: April 2024

Background: Swim performance can be reliant on strength and power. Standardisation of swim performance in different events, distances, and sexes can be completed using World Aquatics points, allowing for ranking of swimmers. The aim of this retrospective cross-sectional study was to assess whether relationships between World Aquatics points and dryland markers of performance existed in male and female elite swimmers separately and combined. Methods: Dryland tests included Optojump® photoelectric cell countermovement jump, countermovement jump reach with a Vertec® system, standing broad jump using a tape measure, repetition maximum testing in the barbell back squat, barbell deadlift, and barbell bench press. Swim performance data and dryland test data on elite male (n = 38) and female (n = 20) Scottish swimmers from 2009–2017 were collected. Swim performance data were converted to World Aquatics federation points, and Bayesian linear regression analyses examined relationships between World Aquatics points and dryland performance tests: countermovement jump height (cm) using an Optojump® photoelectric cells system, countermovement jump height (cm) using a Vertec® device, standing broad jump distance (cm), relative strength (load lifted (kg) per kg of body mass) in the barbell bench press (kg/kg), barbell back squat (kg/kg), barbell deadlift (kg/kg). Results: The Bayesian estimates of change of World Aquatics points for a unit change in jump-based measures were: Optojump®—men = 0.6, women = 0.6, combined = 0.4; Vertec®—men = 4.3, women = −1.6, combined = 2.4; standing broad jump—men = 0, women = 0, combined = 0.4. Strength-based measures were: barbell back squat—men = 2.3, women = 22, combined = −2.5; barbell deadlift—men = −5; barbell bench press—men = 41.8. Conclusions: Dryland performance tests are not good predictors of World Aquatics points and should rather be used for assessing training quality and monitoring injury risks.
A Symmetric Sixth-Order Step-Up Converter with Asymmetric PWM Achieved with Small Energy Storage Components
Authors: Dueñas-García Iván , Rosas-Caro Julio C. , Robles-Campos Hector R. , Posada Johnny , Valdez-Resendiz Jesus E. , Valderrabano-Gonzalez Antonio , Gabbar Hossam A. , Babaiahgari Bhanu
Published: April 2024

This research explores an improved operation of a recently studied converter, the so-called two-phase sixth-order boost converter (2P6OBC). The converter consists of a symmetric design of power stations followed by an LC filter; its improved operation incorporates an asymmetric pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme for transistor switching, sometimes known as an interleaved PWM approach. The new operation leads to improved performance for the 2P6OBC. Along with studying the 2P6OBC, one of the contributions of this research is providing design equations for the converter and comparing it versus the interleaved (or multiphase) boost converter, known for its competitiveness and advantages; the single-phase boost topology was also included in the comparison. The comparison consisted of a design scenario where all converters must achieve the same power conversion with an established maximum switching ripple, and then the stored energy in passive components is compared. Although the 2P6OBC requires a greater number of components, the total amount of stored energy is smaller. It is known that the stored energy is related to the size of the passive components. Still, the article includes a discussion of this topic. The new operation of the converter offers more streamlined, cost-effective, and efficient alternatives for a range of applications within power electronics. The final design of the 2P6OBC required only 68% of the stored energy in inductors compared to the multiphase boost converter, and 60% of the stored energy in capacitors. This result is outstanding, considering that the multiphase boost converter is a very competitive topology. Experimental results are provided to validate the proposed concept.
Exploring the Molecular Terrain: A Survey of Analytical Methods for Biological Network Analysis
Authors: Nguyen Trong-The , Dao Thi-Kien , Pham Duc-Tinh , Duong Thi-Hoan
Published: April 2024

Biological systems, characterized by their complex interplay of symmetry and asymmetry, operate through intricate networks of interacting molecules, weaving the elaborate tapestry of life. The exploration of these networks, aptly termed the “molecular terrain”, is pivotal for unlocking the mysteries of biological processes and spearheading the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. This review embarks on a comprehensive survey of the analytical methods employed in biological network analysis, focusing on elucidating the roles of symmetry and asymmetry within these networks. By highlighting their strengths, limitations, and potential applications, we delve into methods for network reconstruction, topological analysis with an emphasis on symmetry detection, and the examination of network dynamics, which together reveal the nuanced balance between stable, symmetrical configurations and the dynamic, asymmetrical shifts that underpin biological functionality. This review equips researchers with a multifaceted toolbox designed to navigate and decipher biological networks’ intricate, balanced landscape, thereby advancing our understanding and manipulation of complex biological systems. Through this detailed exploration, we aim to foster significant advancements in biological network analysis, paving the way for novel therapeutic interventions and a deeper comprehension of the molecular underpinnings of life.
Perceptions of a State-Level HPV Vaccine Mandate and Exemption Option in Rural Virginia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Brooks E. Marshall , Fugate-Laus Kendall , Webel Ben , Naavaal Shillpa
Published: April 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States; yet, despite the availability of safe and effective HPV vaccines, only half of eligible adolescents have completed the vaccine series. School-entry requirements are one proven strategy to increase vaccination rates among children and youth and reduce the burden of HPV-related cancer. This study investigated community perceptions of an HPV vaccine school-entry mandate in Virginia and the consequences of a low threshold exemption option included in the legislation. We conducted 40 interviews with community members including 15 interviews with parents, 19 with healthcare providers, and 6 with community leaders. Interviews asked about knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes concerning the HPV vaccine and mandate. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed. Despite healthcare provider support for the mandate, there was widespread confusion over the school-entry policy and concern that the exemption option undermined vaccination efforts. Understanding variations in community-level perceptions and response to school-based vaccination mandates is crucial for designing effective public health strategies. Findings suggest statewide vaccination initiatives should preemptively identify low uptake areas and provide targeted information to communities. Future mandates should avoid the use of ambiguous and contradictory language in vaccine-related legislation.
Immune Response to an Inactivated Vaccine of SARS-CoV-2 (CoronaVac) in an Indigenous Brazilian Population: A Cohort Study
Authors: de Oliveira Laís Albuquerque , de Morais Isa Rita Brito , Barbosa Marcelo dos Santos , Beutinger Marchioro Silvana , Leite Machado Layla Oliveira Campos , Ferreira Marques Michele , da Silva Ferreira Tiago , de Almeida Gabriel Barroso , de Oliveira Barbosa Dyjaene , Leite Torres Alex José , Simionatto Simone
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Although the adaptive immune responses to the CoronaVac vaccine are known, their dynamics in indigenous communities remain unclear. In this study, we assessed the humoral and cellular immune responses to CoronaVac (Sinovac Biotech Life Sciences, 2021 NCT05225285, Beijing, China), in immunized Brazilian indigenous individuals. Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study on indigenous Brazilian people between February 2021 and June 2021. Analyses of immune responses were carried out before (T1) and after a vaccination schedule was completed (T2). Demographic data were collected using a questionnaire. Results: We initially included 328 patients; among them, 120 (36.6%) had no SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected from 106 patients during follow-up visits, of which 91 samples were analyzed by immunophenotyping assay to detect SARS-CoV-2-specific memory T-cell response. Post-vaccination, the levels of memory B-cells and Natural Killer T-lymphocytes increased. Bororó village residents, females, and Terena ethnic group members had higher levels of anti-spike IgG antibodies post-vaccination, whereas alcohol and tobacco users had lower concentrations. Conclusions: To our best knowledge, this was the first comprehensive assessment of antibody and T-cell responses against CoronaVac vaccination in indigenous patients. Our findings showed that antibody response and T-cell immunity against SARS-CoV-2 were present in most patients following the vaccination schedule.
Immobilization Behavior and Mechanism of Cd2+ by Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria in Anoxic Environments
Authors: Liao Lang , Li Qian , Yang Yongbin , Xu Rui , Zhang Yan
Published: April 2024

It is vital to remove cadmium from wastewater because of its potential harm to the natural environment and human health. It was found that sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) had a good fixing effect on Cd under a strict anaerobic environment. However, there are few reports on the immobilization effect and mechanism of SRB on Cd in an anoxic environment. This study revealed the effects of initial Cd2+ concentration, initial SO42− concentration, temperature, pH, and C/N ratio on the immobilization of Cd2+ by SRB in aqueous solution under an anoxic environment. The experimental results showed that under the conditions of initial concentration of Cd2+ within 0 mg/L~30 mg/L, initial concentration of SO42− within 1200 mg/L, temperature within 25 °C~35 °C, pH neutral, and C/N ratio of 20:1, the immobilization rate of Cd2+ by SRB is above 90%. The characterization results showed that bioadsorption and chemical precipitation were the main mechanisms of SRB immobilization of Cd2+ in an anoxic environment.
Collaborative Misbehaviour Response System for Improving Road Safety
Authors: Chikh Khaled , Shrivastav Chinmay Satish , Cavicchioli Roberto
Published: April 2024

This paper advocates for a proactive approach to traffic safety by introducing a collaborative Misbehaviour Response System (MBR) designed to preemptively address hazardous driving behaviours such as wrong-way driving and distracted driving. The system integrates with electric vehicles (EVs), leveraging advanced technologies like ADAS, edge computing, and cloud services to enhance road safety. Upon detection of misbehaviour, the MBR system utilizes data from interconnected parking facilities to identify the nearest safe location and provides navigation guidance to authorities and nearby vehicles. The paper presents a prototype of the MBR system, demonstrating its efficiency in detecting misbehaviours and coordinating swift responses. It also discusses the system’s limitations and societal implications, outlining future research directions, including integration with autonomous vehicle systems and variable speed limit technologies, to further improve road safety through proactive and context-aware response mechanisms.
A Scalable Approach to Minimize Charging Costs for Electric Bus Fleets
Authors: Mortensen Daniel , Gunther Jacob
Published: April 2024

Incorporating battery electric buses into bus fleets faces three primary challenges: a BEB’s extended refuel time, the cost of charging, both by the consumer and the power provider, and large compute demands for planning methods. When BEBs charge, the additional demands on the grid may exceed hardware limitations, so power providers divide a consumer’s energy needs into separate meters even though doing so is expensive for both power providers and consumers. Prior work has developed a number of strategies for computing charge schedules for bus fleets; however, prior work has not worked to reduce costs by aggregating meters. Additionally, because many works use mixed integer linear programs, their compute needs make planning for commercial-sized bus fleets intractable. This work presents a multi-program approach to computing charge plans for electric bus fleets. The proposed method solves a series of subproblems where the solution to the charge problem becomes more refined with each problem, moving closer to the optimal schedule. The results demonstrate how runtimes are reduced by using intermediate subproblems to refine the bus charge solution so that the proposed method can be applied to large bus fleets of 100+ buses. Not only will we demonstrate that runtimes scale linearly with the number of buses but we will also show how the proposed method scales to large bus fleets of over 100 buses while managing the monthly cost of energy.
Individualized management of chronic periodontitis in patients with orthodontic abnormalities: a clinical case report
Authors: Blashkova S. L. , Fazylova Y. V. , Shaidullin I. M. , Urdyakov I. Z.
Published: April 2024

Relevance. Chronic periodontitis is a multifactorial disease influenced by a variety of factors. Beyond periodontal pathogens and systemic conditions, important contributing factors include malocclusion, dental misalignment, and tooth loss. These conditions can compromise the tissue blood flow hemodynamics and precipitate occlusal trauma with signs of functional overload. Subsequently, this may intensify the inflammation and degradation of the alveolar bone, often leading to premature tooth loss.Correction of malocclusion is paramount in the effective management of periodontal diseases, requiring orthodontic treatment to resolve malocclusion and mitigate signs of functional overload. This treatment aims to redistribute occlusal forces uniformly, thus creating a conducive environment for successful prosthodontic rehabilitation and promoting optimal personal oral hygiene.

Clinical case description. This article outlines a personalized approach to managing periodontal inflammation in individuals with orthodontic anomalies. Patient Z., born in 2002, was diagnosed with moderate severity chronic periodontitis (K05.31), presenting with a Class I molar and canine relationship on both sides, constricted dental arches, individual tooth macrodontia, and retrusion and torsiversion of the incisors. The assessment of the patient's periodontal status and overall health was conducted using standard clinical, radiographic, and laboratory diagnostics, whereas the orthodontic assessment involved anthropometric analysis of dental casts and lateral cephalometric radiographs. The periodontal intervention included foundational non-surgical treatments such as ultrasonic scaling both supra- and subgingivally, biofilm disruption using the Vector Paro system, and specific pharmacotherapy. The orthodontic treatment aimed to widen both dental arches and correct the inclination of the upper and lower incisors, achieving a normal occlusion with fixed orthodontic appliances (Damon Q brackets) in accordance with the treatment plan. The effectiveness of the treatment was measured by examining the improvement in gingival conditions, periodontal parameters, and radiographic evidence before and after the intervention.

Conclusion. The research demonstrated that an individualized treatment protocol integrating periodontal and orthodontic care can substantially improve the overall health of the dentofacial complex, masticatory efficiency, and aesthetic aspects.
Evaluación formativa virtual en la psicomotricidad
Authors: Montenegro Santacruz Hermenegildo , Mocarro Willis María Lucía , Centurion-Larrea Angel Johel
Published: April 2024

Este estudio aborda el tema de la evaluación formativa en psicomotricidad, centrándose en la transformación de las prácticas educativas durante el periodo de aislamiento sanitario por COVID-19. Se realizó una revisión exhaustiva de la literatura académica utilizando bases de datos como Scopus, Scielo y EBSCO, seleccionando artículos relevantes publicados en los últimos dos años. A partir de esta revisión, se identificaron tendencias en la importancia de la evaluación formativa para el desarrollo psicomotor de los alumnos, así como la necesidad de capacitación docente en estrategias de evaluación formativa. Se discuten tanto los beneficios como los desafíos de implementar evaluaciones formativas, especialmente en entornos virtuales, y se exploran diferentes enfoques pedagógicos para mejorar la práctica evaluativa. En conclusión, se destaca la importancia de la evaluación formativa como una herramienta fundamental para el aprendizaje y el desarrollo integral de los estudiantes en el contexto actual de la educación.
Diseño y gestión de entornos virtuales de aprendizaje en la educación superior
Authors: Gonzales del Solar Jessica , Osorio Castillo Esther María , Bernaola Miñano Luis Manuel
Published: April 2024

Los Entornos Virtuales de Aprendizaje (EVA) son sistemas complejos que integran componentes tecnológicos y pedagógicos para facilitar los procesos de enseñanza-aprendizaje en entornos presenciales o híbridos. Estos entornos permiten la construcción cooperativa, colaborativa, interactiva y adaptativa del conocimiento, haciendo uso de recursos y materiales digitales. La metodología empleada siguió las directrices de Preguntas de Informes y Revisión Sistemática (PRISMA). Este estudio abordó la caracterización de los elementos de diseño y las formas de gestión de los EVA en la educación superior, evidenciando la necesidad de fases como diseño, estructuración y creación de recursos. Los resultados ofrecen una visión integral para mejorar la planificación, organización y evaluación del proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje en contextos educativos superiores.
Türkmen Türkçesi Okuyuş ve Söyleyiş Kuralları
Authors: Yıldırım Hüseyin
Published: April 2024

Türkçe yazıldığı gibi okunan bir dildir. Türkçenin günümüzde yaşayan çağdaş lehçelerinde de belirli imla kuralları olduğu ve kelimelerin bu imla esaslarında söylendiği gibi yazılıp, yazıldığı gibi de okunduğu görülür. Diğer bir ifadeyle edebî dilde yazıldığı gibi okunma özelliği, Türk lehçelerinde de yaygın olarak işletilir.
Türk dilinin Oğuz Grubu lehçeleri arasında yer alan Türkmen Türkçesinin standart dilinde ise işletilen imla kaideleri ile okunuş/söyleyiş kuralları arasında belirli farklılıklar mevcuttur. Türkmen Türkçesi de çoğunlukla yazıldığı gibi okunsa da bu lehçenin bazı tipik özellikleri ve kurallara bağlanmış ancak yazıda gösterilmeyen bazı özel durumlar okunuşu belirler. Böylece hem imla ile okunuş hem de edebî söyleyiş arasında farklılıklar ortaya çıkar. Fakat bu farklılıklar sistemlidir ve kurallara bağlanmıştır.
Bazıları imladan ama çoğunluğu Türkmen Türkçesinin yazıldığı gibi okunmamasından kaynaklı bu okunuş/söyleyiş farklılıkları hem kelime kök ve gövdelerinde hem de ekler ve eklerin kelime köklerine eklenmesinde görülür.
Başta uzun ünlü olmak üzere, diğer bazı ünlü ve ünsüzlerin söyleniş biçimleri; ünlü yuvarlaklaşması, ünsüz benzeşmesi, ünlü türemesi gibi ses olaylarına bağlı doğru okuma ve söyleme kuralları her ne kadar yazıda gösterilmese de belirli bir sistem çerçevesinde işletilir. Bu kuralların bilinmesi Türkmen Türkçesinin öğrenimini ve doğru kullanımını kolaylaştıracaktır. Bu çalışmada Türkmen Türkçesinin standart dilinde yazıda gösterilmeyen doğru okuma biçimleri ve aynı zamanda edebî dil olarak Türkmen Türkçesinin konuşulması esnasında uyulması gereken doğru telaffuz şekilleri üzerinde durulacak; örneklerle buna dair kurallar tespit edilerektir.
Microbiology of post-fermentation leachate
Authors: Zamorska Justyna , Zdeb Monika , Domoń Andżelika , Masłoń Adam
Published: April 2024

Using post-fermentation leachate as fertilizer is a good alternative and solution to the problem of waste at wastewater treatment plants and contains the principles of sustainable development. Leachate from anaerobic treatment of sewage sludge contains valuable elements such as phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium, which can improve soil properties. The production of liquid fertilizer minimizes the negative impact of leachate on the main biological stream in the WWTP and improves the energy efficiency of the entire wastewater treatment system. This transfers into the operating costs of the facility. When thinking about the agricultural use of digestion leachate and its introduction into the environment, a very important issue is its microbiological contamination. The purpose of the conducted research was to determine the microbiological quality of digestion leachates from municipal wastewater treatment plants and to determine the parameters of their hygienization. The number of bacteria in raw leachate is indicative of a sanitary risk in the case they are used in agriculture as fertiliser. Heating the leachate at 60°C for 15 minutes produces an effect comparable to that achieved by heating the leachate to 70°C. The sonication process itself did not affect the better temperature effect. Heating the leachate for 20 minutes after prior sonication for 20 minutes does not result in the complete elimination of microflora.
DIVAS for Social Justice: Building Resilience in Youth Through STEAM
Authors: James Clarisa
Published: April 2024

DIVAS (Digital Interactive Visual Arts Sciences) for Social Justice is a STEAM-based grassroots organization that has created positive youth-led multimedia projects for the past 17 years in communities of color. The organization uses digital media and emerging technologies in the development of youth voices to tell the stories of their communities. We demonstrate how youth creating multimedia content around issues facing a community can be a vehicle for leadership development and resilience. We explore three programs:
Gentrification Through the Eyes of Youth: A multimedia exhibition led by youth, ages 7-14, to address solutions to gentrification in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood.
Laurelton.nyc: The launch of the neighborhood website to share positive stories of Southeast Queens and increase digital literacy.
Forward, A Social Justice Makerspace for All: A makerspace focused on participatory action to design a community space that can lead to economic opportunities for the greater community.
MODERN METHODS FOR DIAGNOSING FETAL HYPOXIA DURING THE INTRANATAL PERIOD
Authors:   Surgut State University, Surgut, Russia, Коваленко Л. В. , Белоцерковцева Л. Д. ,   Surgut State University, Surgut, Russia, Шерстюк Ю. А. ,   Surgut State University, Surgut, Russia,   Surgut District Clinical Center of Maternity and Childhood Health Care, Surgut, Russia
Published: April 2024

The study aims to generalize and systematize modern instrumental methods for assessing the fetus conditions during labor based on the scientific literature from the Web of Science, Medline, PubMed, and RISC. It was found that combination of the main and additional methods for assessing the fetus conditions during labor improves significantly the diagnosis of fetal hypoxia, while the blood analysis from the fetus scalp is an efficient additional diagnosing method for fetal hypoxia during labor.
X-RAY OBSERVATIONS OF HIATAL HERNIAS
Authors:   Kazan State Medical Academy – Branch Campus of the Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Kazan, Russia, Абдулхакова Д. А. ,   Republican Clinical Oncology Dispensary named after Prof. M. Z. Sigal, Kazan, Russia, Абдулхаков Р. А. ,   Kazan State Medical University, Kazan, Russia
Published: April 2024

The study aims to discuss the possibilities of standard fluoroscopy and radiography in diagnosing a hiatal hernia and its complications. Fluoroscopy and radiography were performed on 147 patients with hiatal hernias. At first, the posterior mediastinum was examined to detect fixed hiatal hernias. Then, a barium swallow test was performed. 142 (96.6 %) patients were diagnosed with sliding hiatal hernias, with 97 (68.3 %) patients having non-fixed hiatal hernias. Fixed hernias with cicatricial shortening of the esophagus were observed in 45 (31.7 %) patients. 23 (16.2 %) patients had axial hiatal hernias and concomitant esophageal cancer in 11 (7.7 %) patients or gastric cancer – in 12 (8.5 %) patients. In 103 (70 %) patients, hiatal hernias were associated with gastroesophageal reflux and esophagitis, and additionally with esophagospasm in 89 (60.5 %) patients. Patients with complications of hiatal hernias required surgery.
Food for Academic Thought
Authors:   University of Pretoria
Published: April 2024

"In a 'spoon in cheek' manner, I can honestly say this is a cookbook that the wizards at the National Roasting Foundation will approve of. In fact, this is so off the scale that their top chef rating of A1 cannot be applied. In all probability, they will have to create a brand-new rating category because if not, their whole system will go pear-shaped. I say this because FOOD FOR ACADEMIC THOUGHT is a transdisciplinary alchemy like no other – a cure for all ivory tower diseases – both known and unknown. This is the case because it is underpinned by 'vreetsaamheid', a theoretical framing that has the potential to rival that old Education Faculty Favourite, Bronfenbrenner, as a cure for all things 'angazi' that we have to have to ingest and digest continuously. But I digress. In all dishonesty, I did try concocting some of the concoctions the Department of SMTKS EDUCATION are peddling in this book. And as a double-blind reviewer, it made me appreciate, from the start, the raw data that was used to arrive at the main findings. Without wanting to sound saucy, the findings were definitely fish or flesh or something else. This book, which I know will bring in sweet subsidies, deserves, in my view, to be used as the prescribed book for all functions, fiestas, fetes, funerals, fits, fergaderings, festivities and all other Faculty occasions serving food." Prof Johan Wasserman HoD Humanities Education
Reading for Friday in The Female American (1767)
Authors: Irving Roslyn
Published: April 2024

While styled on Robinson Crusoe (1719), The Female American (1767) differs considerably from Defoe’s text. In the novel, Unca Eliza, a mixed-race heroine, finds safety in an Indigenous tribe using an ‘othered’ body. While marooned, the protagonist climbs inside an oracle, a statue of a sun god. Through it, she speaks with the tribe, thereby converting them to Christianity, or at least a version of it. ‘Friday’ exists in multiple configurations across The Female American, in terms of indigenous groups and individuals who are converted, violently oppressed and threatened, and, as will be demonstrated in this essay, as an extension of the narrator’s identity. This article contends that the combination of the castaway Unca Eliza and the idol of the sun god explores the ambivalence of colonial rhetoric and represents a new configuration of the Friday/Crusoe relationship.
Les éducations à… : ya basta !
Authors: Beitone Alain , Hemdane Estelle
Published: April 2024

Les « éducations à », apparues dans les années 1970, ont pris leur essor dans les années 2000 avec l’ambition non dissimulée de transformer l’école et les pratiques enseignantes. Dans cet article, nous décrivons la contestation des savoirs et des disciplines scolaires qui les sous-tendent sur fond d’exaltation de la post-modernité et de relativisme. Nous soulignons les limites épistémologiques et pédagogiques de ces enseignements et faisons l’hypothèse qu’elles expliquent pourquoi les enseignants et l’institution semblent s’en détourner aujourd’hui.
Contenus, configurations et conscience disciplinaires
Authors: Reuter Yves
Published: April 2024

Après avoir présenté les concepts de contenu scolaire et de configuration disciplinaire, essentiels dans la perspective didactique qui est la sienne, Yves Reuter définit le concept de conscience disciplinaire au travers de ses composantes (forme, clarté et pertinence) et de ses principaux intérêts : mieux comprendre l’opacité pour un certain nombre d’élèves des organisations disciplinaires, éclairer autrement les relations à l’échec scolaire, appréhender les relations entre contenus et conscience disciplinaire, éclairer des pistes d’intervention possibles dans les classes. Ainsi construite, la conscience disciplinaire apparaît non seulement comme un contenu d’apprentissage, mais aussi et surtout comme un cadre d’intégration des contenus proposés.