bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conditional Deletion of β-Catenin in the Mediobasal Hypothalamus Impairs Adaptive Energy Expenditure in Response to High-Fat Diet and Exacerbates Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Rizwan Mohammed Z. , Kamstra Kaj , Pretz Dominik , Shepherd Peter R. , Tups Alexander , Grattan David R.
Published: February 2024

β-Catenin is a bifunctional molecule that is an effector of the wingless-related integration site (Wnt) signaling to control gene expression and contributes to the regulation of cytoskeleton and neurotransmitter vesicle trafficking. In its former role, β-catenin binds transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2), which shows strong genetic associations with the pathogenesis of obesity and type-2 diabetes. Here, we sought to determine whether β-catenin plays a role in the neuroendocrine regulation of body weight and glucose homeostasis. Bilateral injections of adeno-associated virus type-2 (AAV2)-mCherry-Cre were placed into the arcuate nucleus of adult male and female β-cateninfloxmice, to specifically delete β-catenin expression in the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH-β-cat KO). Metabolic parameters were then monitored under conditions of low-fat (LFD) and high-fat diet (HFD). On LFD, MBH-β-cat KO mice showed minimal metabolic disturbances, but on HFD, despite having only a small difference in weekly caloric intake, the MBH-β-cat KO mice were significantly heavier than the control mice in both sexes (p < 0.05). This deficit seemed to be due to a failure to show an adaptive increase in energy expenditure seen in controls, which served to offset the increased calories by HFD. Both male and female MBH-β-cat KO mice were highly glucose intolerant when on HFD and displayed a significant reduction in both leptin and insulin sensitivity compared with controls. This study highlights a critical role for β-catenin in the hypothalamic circuits regulating body weight and glucose homeostasis and reveals potential mechanisms by which genetic variation in this pathway could impact on development of metabolic disease.
A germination and micropropagation protocol for an endangered grass, Gymnopogon doellii, for ex situ conservation
Authors: Lopes Paulo Maiky , Machado Leitea Douglas , Gabriel Do Carmob Dener , Montenegro Valls José Francisco , Borghetti Fabian , Ebling Brondanic Gilvano
Published: February 2024

The conservation of endangered plant species requires the development of protocols relating to germination, seedling production, and micropropagation technique, particularly when considering compliance with environ- mental licensing requirements for seedling nurseries (ex situ
conservation). These protocols are necessary to circumvent limitations inherent in the propagation of endangered plants. Gymnopogon doellii Boechat & Valls is one such species and is classified as a critically endangered species. This species is included in environmental licensing
requirements and needs propagation and ex situ conservation solutions for subsequent in situ reintroduction. We found that use of germination chamber was crucial for its germination and seedling production. In addition, seedling transplantation was found to be more efficient
than directly sowing in pots. The micropropagation protocol established in this study proved efficient in generating large quantities of seedlings, thereby enabling conservation in culture media for genotype maintenance (in vitro culture) and species conservation.
ДИСТАНЦІЙНЕ НАВЧАННЯ АНГЛІЙСЬКОЇ ДІТЕЙ ДОШКІЛЬНОГО ВІКУ В УМОВАХ ГУРТКОВОЇ РОБОТИ В ЗАКЛАДАХ ДОШКІЛЬНОЇ ОСВІТИ
Authors: КУЛІШ ІННА , ЛИСИЦЯ ВІТАЛІНА
Published: February 2024

Автори статті акцентують на необхідності звернення освітян України до питань дистанційної освіти. Здійснено аналіз наукових праць з досліджуваної проблеми; з’ясовано походження терміна «дистанційна освіта»; наведено приклади цифрових інструментів, які можуть бути використані в роботі з дітьми дошкільного віку у процесі вивчення англійської мови.
МЕТОДИКА МЕТАФОРИЧНОГО АНАЛІЗУ ЕПІЧНОГО ТВОРУ
Authors: СКОМОРОВСЬКА НАТАЛІЯ
Published: February 2024

У статті розкрито особливості аналізу епічного твору за допомогою метафори. Зроблено висновки, що метафора має великий потенціал для розвитку мислення людини, дає можливість краще пізнати себе і світ, дослідити причинно-наслідкові зв'язки між різними явищами, подіями, учинками. Авторка запропонувала власну методику метафоричного аналізу епічного твору, поєднала різні методи, прийоми та завдання. Довела, що використання метафори допомагає глибоко проаналізувати текст, звернути увагу на особливості творення образів, розкриття проблематики. Акцентовано на тому, що під час такого аналізу здобувачі освіти вчаться виокремлювати важливі для розуміння головної думки частини твору. Зроблено висновки, що увага до метафор сприяє дослідженню особливостей творчого почерку письменника, розумінню художньої цінності кожного твору, його значення у розвитку українського та світового мистецтва слова.
РОЗВИТОК SOFT SKILLS МАЙБУТНІХ ПЕДАГОГІВ У ПРОЦЕСІ ПРОФЕСІЙНОЇ ПІДГОТОВКИ
Authors: ОЛІЯР МАРІЯ , НАКОНЕЧНА ЛАРИСА
Published: February 2024

Стаття присвячена питанню розвитку soft skills майбутніх педагогів в освітньому процесі закладів вищої освіти. Автори статті акцентували увагу на важливості формування soft skills у майбутніх учителів сучасної української початкової школи, проаналізували погляди вітчизняних і зарубіжних науковців на soft skills як комплекс неспеціалізованих надпрофесійних навичок. Також детально розглянуто структуру soft skills, проаналізовано й описано «Модель 4К» і її складові: критичне мислення, креативність, комунікація, координація. Окрім цього, ґрунтовно розкрито власний погляд на практичне застосування низки педагогічних технологій у процесі формування soft skills майбутніх педагогів в освітньому процесі закладів вищої освіти.
ПРОФЕСІЙНИЙ РОЗВИТОК УЧИТЕЛІВ ПОЧАТКОВИХ КЛАСІВ В УМОВАХ РЕАЛІЗАЦІЇ КОНЦЕПЦІЇ «НОВА УКРАЇНСЬКА ШКОЛА»
Authors: БАРАБАШ  ОЛЬГА
Published: February 2024

У статті розглядаються окремі аспекти професійного розвитку вчителів початкових класів, що обумовлені впровадженням Концепції «Нова українська школа». У матеріалах представлено результати дослідження, яке проходило у два етапи. На першому – узагальнювалися підсумки пілотування нового Державного стандарту початкової освіти; на другому – опитування учителів початкових класів, які упроваджують нововведення. Насамперед, воно стосувалося розуміння ключових ідей НУШ, змін, що відбулися у професійній діяльності педагогів, суб’єктивній оцінці їх результатів.
High Resolution Thermo-gravimetric Analysis of Pulp Drying
Authors:   Department of Wood and Paper Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh NC 27695–8005, Park Sunkyu , Venditti Richard A. ,   Department of Wood and Paper Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh NC 27695–8005, Pawlak Joel J. ,   Department of Wood and Paper Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh NC 27695–8005, Jameel Hasan ,   Department of Wood and Paper Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh NC 27695–8005
Published: February 2024

A method is described that classifies water in a cellulosic fiber and water system. Thermogravitmetric analysis (TGA) is used to determine hard-to-remove (HR) water from an isothermal drying curve. The HR water content is defined as the moisture ratio (g of water / g of oven dried sample) of the fiber-water system at the transition between the constant rate zone and falling rate zone of an isothermal drying curve. The TGA instrument provides tightly controlled drying conditions that allow one to distinguish small differences in drying behavior. The exact value of the HR water content was found to be influenced by the initial moisture ratio, solid mass, and isothermal drying temperature. Experiments at optimal conditions showed that the HR water content is linearly correlated with the water retention value. This correlation was examined in terms of the similar states of the fibers (i.e. minimum saturation point) when the HR water content and water retention value are measured. The dependence of the HR water content on the solid mass of the sample revealed two constants, y-intercept and slope. The y-intercept is considered to be linked with instrumentation and the slope is to be associated with the fiber. Once the HR water content measurements are adjusted for these constants, experiments may be conducted at any solid mass down to a few milligrams. The dependence of the HR water content on the isothermal drying temperature was linked to differences in the drying rate of the constant rate zone. It is proposed that the higher drying rate for higher isothermal temperatures results in the transport of water internal to the fiber becoming an important factor at higher moisture content. This results in a higher HR water content being observed. It was also found that the pulp yield affected the HR water content. At the same water retention value, the highest HR water content was found for mechanical pulp followed by unbleached chemical pulp, and bleached chemical pulp. These differences may be attributed to differences in chemistry, pore size and volume, and the dynamics of pore collapse during drying. This method can be performed on extremely small samples and provides a convenient and insightful characterization technique for cellulosic fibers.
Development of New Methods for Characterizing Uniformity of Yankee Coatings
Authors:   Nalco Company, 1601 West Diehl Road, Naperville, IL 60563–1198, USA, Grigoriev Vladimir A. , Cloud Richard W. ,   Nalco Company, 1601 West Diehl Road, Naperville, IL 60563–1198, USA, Furman Gary S. ,   Nalco Company, 1601 West Diehl Road, Naperville, IL 60563–1198, USA, Su Winston ,   Nalco Company, 1601 West Diehl Road, Naperville, IL 60563–1198, USA
Published: February 2024

An adhesive coating formed on the surface of a Yankee dryer is critical for manufacturing creped tissue and towel grades. Due to the complexity and dynamic nature of the creping process, there has been very limited information available on the structure of Yankee coatings. This paper discusses laboratory methods for preparing Yankee coating films and imaging techniques, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) that were used to characterize these films. The effects of various modifying agents are demonstrated on the structural and compositional uniformity of the Yankee coating films. The applicability of the SEM and AFM data from this study to the actual creping process and the practical aspects of the results are also discussed.
The Influence of Through-thickness Variation on the Mechanics of Paper Drying
Authors:   KTH Solid Mechanics, Stockholm, Sweden, Östlund Magnus , Mäkelä Petri ,   STFI-Packforsk AB, Stockholm, Sweden, Östlund Sören ,   KTH Solid Mechanics, Stockholm, Sweden
Published: February 2024

A material model for drying paper is presented. Moisture-dependent material parameters, hygroscopic shrinkage, the elastic and the time-dependent responses of the material to load, and the effect of unloading at a higher stiffness than the load was applied at are modelled. The model is used to determine the effects of a varying moisture ratio through the paper during drying on free shrinkage development and stiffness development at free drying. Simulation results for the stress development during drying and the state of residual stress immediately after drying are also presented. The model predicts a variation of in-plane elastic moduli through the paper, a prediction that is studied by experiments.
Predictions of Anisotropic Multiply Board Properties Based on Isotropic Ply Properties and Drying Restraints
Authors:   The Packaging Greenhouse AB, Axel Johnsons väg 6, SE-652 21 KARLSTAD, Sweden, Wahlström Torbjörn , Mäkelä Petri ,   STFI- Packforsk, Box 5604, SE 114 86 STOCKHOLM, Sweden
Published: February 2024

There is a link missing between pulp properties and machine-made paper properties. The aim of this paper is to close a part of this gap by proposing an engineering model which, based on pulp or stock properties, makes it possible to predict the resulting anisotropic material behaviour of a multiply paper or board based on any given fibre anisotropy and drying restraint. An anisotropic model for the shrinkage and stiffness inter-action between the individual plies in a multiply structure is formulated. The input data to the model is the isotropic restrained dried and free dried stiffness, the free shrinkage strain and the density of each ply in the multiply structure. The basis weight, fibre anisotropy and total strain after drying are variables in the model. This means that besides the standard handsheet procedure only measurement of shrinkage and stiffness for one extra free dried handsheet is needed for the calibration of the model. The proposed model is validated with a series of anisotropic handsheet trials. Various combinations of single ply anisotropic handsheets were couched together into seven different multiply boards, which were dried freely and restrained. The isotropic input data of the individual plies were used to predict the free and restrained dried tensile stiffness index and bending stiffness of the multiply boards. The agreement between the experimental and predicted results showed good agreement. The model constitutes a useful tool in engineering predictions and parametric investigations of the mechanical behaviour of multiply boards. As a demonstration of the use of the model, the relation for tensile and bending stiffness versus total strain accumulated during drying was predicted for different board compositions. The basis weight and fibre anisotropy were varied in one of its plies.
Role of Fiber Deformations and Damage from Fiber Strength to End User
Authors:   KCL Science and Consulting, Tekniikantie 2, P.O.Box 70, FIN-02151 ESPOO, FINLAND, Joutsimo Olli , Wathén Rolf ,   KCL Science and Consulting, Tekniikantie 2, P.O.Box 70, FIN-02151 ESPOO, FINLAND, Robertsén Leif ,   KCL Science and Consulting, Tekniikantie 2, P.O.Box 70, FIN-02151 ESPOO, FINLAND
Published: February 2024

Fiber deformations and damage have a considerable influence on both fiber strength and network properties. Through their influence on the fiber network, they can also affect the way paper behaves during converting. Another aspect is their influence on end-use properties, again via their effect on the fiber network. Separating the effects of fiber deformations and damage is often difficult. We prepared pulps in the laboratory and subjected them to different treatments that change the two relatively independently in a controlled manner. We found that wet/dry zero-span fiber strength is not dependent on the deformation method or on the extent of the deformations. Neither pulp sheet density nor Scott bond bonding was greatly affected by the type or method of deformation. In the case of deformed pulps, the pulp sheet tensile properties were dependent on the extent of fiber deformation via fiber segment activation. The pulp that was damaged instead of deformed had fiber deformations to about the same extent as the deformed pulp but lower single fiber strength measured with wet/dry zero-span. It also had lower bonding ability and sheet density. The tear index for the unbleached damaged pulp was 20–25% higher than that of the reference pulps. Fiber deformations (curl and kinks) affect fiber network properties via the lack of fiber segment activation. However, they do not significantly influence fiber shrinkage potential (WRV) or fiber strength.
Resonance properties of the solution of quercetin stabilized silver nanoparticles in a nutrient medium
Authors:   Educational and Scientific Institute of High Technologies Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv Ukraine, Lozovski V. Z. , Vasiljev A. G. ,   Educational and Scientific Institute of High Technologies Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv Ukraine, Vasyliev T. A. ,   Educational and Scientific Institute of High Technologies Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv Ukraine, Petrik I. S. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Eremenko A. M. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Rybalchenko N. P. ,   D.K. Zabolotny Institute of Microbiology and Virology of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: February 2024

Changes in the light absorption spectrum when mixing colloids of Ag nanoparticles with a diameter of 7 nm in a quercetin shell with a nutrient medium were studied in the present article. Colloids of silver nanoparticles were prepared by chemical reduction of AgNO3 silver salt with sodium tetrahydroborate (NaBH4) in an aqueous solution. Quercetin is a flavonoid of plant origin. It was chosen to stabilize nanoparticles due to its capability to form complexes with metals. The quercetin shell is capable to preserve the bactericidal effect of silver NPs on bacteria and weaken their toxic effect on healthy cells of the human body. The absorption spectra of solutions from which nanoparticle colloids were synthesized were used to control the synthesis result. The Luria-Bertani nutrient medium was studied in the work. Absorption spectra of the nutrient medium and nanoparticle colloids were again obtained immediately before mixing. Then, the nutrient medium and the nanoparticle colloid were mixed in volume proportion 1:1, and the absorption spectrum of the mixture was mesured. The absorption spectrum of the mixture did not reproduce a simple overlay of the nanoparticle colloid spectrum on the absorption spectrum of the nutrient medium. To describe the experimental spectra, a colloid of stabilized silver nanoparticles, a nutrient medium, and a mixture of a colloid and a nutrient medium were considered by nanocomposites of various organic and inorganic nanoparticles in a liquid. As a result, experimental absorption spectra were theoretically approximated by related to these nanoparticles elementary oscillators. The error of the discrepancy between experimental and simulated spectra did not exceed 3%. Analysis of the complex spectra of the mixture of the nanoparticle colloid and the nutrient medium has shown that the frequency of the localized plasmon resonance in the nanoparticles most likely does not change. It means that for studying the effect of nanoparticles on biological objects (microbes or viruses), the wavelength of external irradiation must be chosen equal to the wavelength of LPR in the colloid.
Photocatalytic discoloration of organic dyes in water dispersion medium by anatase-based binary nanocomposites
Authors:   I. Frantsevich Institute for Problems of Materials Science of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Lavrynenko O. M. , Zahornyi M. M. ,   I. Frantsevich Institute for Problems of Materials Science of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Pavlenko O. Yu. ,   I. Frantsevich Institute for Problems of Materials Science of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Paineau E. ,   Laboratoire de Physique des Solides, CNRS, Universite Paris-Saclay France
Published: February 2024

Currently, textile and food industries produce a significant volume of sewages containing azo dyes and other organic pollutants. These effluents are serious environmental threats, so new methods for their treatment and the degradation of azo dyes are attracting much attention. Composite materials based on TiO2 modified by noble metals and nanoceria show high activity in the photodegradation of organic contaminates and are proposed for hydrogen synthesis as well. To optimize the treatment of contaminants, different processes can combine including the strategies of adsorption, photoluminescence, photocatalysis, etc. The synthesized TiO2-based nanomaterials (sols, powders) will be exploited for bioremediation due to their small size and surface plasmon resonance from noble metals. Binary nanocomposites based on TiO2 were obtained by the chemical co-precipitation method from solutions of titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP) and inorganic salts of cerium, silver, and palladium. It has been stated that TiO2 is represented by anatase with primary particle size (CSR) from 8.5 to 16.8 nm, depending on the nature and concentration of the dopant. It is shown that Ag is reduced on the surface of anatase particles and blocks their growth, while Pd and Ce penetrate the titanium dioxide matrix in the form of small clusters with the deformation of the anatase crystal lattice. Nanocomposite particles formed loose and fragile aggregates, which spontaneously dispersed in solutions of dyes with the formation of colloid-stable sols, required the use of a centrifugal field for their sedimentation. Nanoparticles of TiO2&Pd were electronegative and others were electropositive according to the values 4.1÷9.6 of ZPC (zero point of charge). It was shown that the particles of all composites sorbed Methylene Blue (MB) without photocatalytic activity under the visible light to any dye. Moreover, anionic dyes such as Orange-G (Or-G) and Methyl Orange (MO) were excellently discolorated in the presence of TiO2&Pd system; cationic dyes of MB and Rhodamine B (RhB) discolorated too with the TiO2, TiO2&CeO2, and TiO2&Ag systems under UV light action. As such, photocatalysis tests showed that Orange-G’s and MO’s discoloration was higher for TiO2&Pd (2 wt. %) and TiO2 systems with the correlation coefficient R2 0.999.
Xanthomonas fuscans subsp. fuscans — збудник дрібної коричневої плямистості бобових культур
Authors: Гнатюк Т.Т. , Житкевич Н.В. , Патика В.П.
Published: February 2024

Xanthomonas fuscans subsp. fuscans is known as an obligate phytopathogen — the pathogen of small brown spot of beans that gradually expands the range of host plants and spreads worldwide on legumes. The review provides data on the problems of the pathogen’s systematics and its change depending on the new research and improvement of methods for studying biological properties. Historical data on the first stages of isolation of X. fuscans subsp. fuscans from bean and new stages of its spread and isolation from soybean in Ukraine, after which the pathogen moved from the monophage to polyphage status within the same plant family. The importance of X. fuscans subsp. fuscans as a potentially dangerous phytopathogen, as evidenced by the presence of its samples in many collections of living microorganisms in the world and the quarantine status of the pathogen in a number of European countries are underlined. It has been shown that the phytopathogen X. fuscans subsp. fuscans does not differ significantly from other xanthomonads in terms of its cultural, morphological, physiological, and biochemical properties, especially those that cause diseases of leguminous plants. At the same time, the only but the main feature of this bacterial culture is emphasized — the increased amount and activity of the intracellular enzyme tyrosinase, which distinguishes X. fuscans from all other bacterial phytopathogens and not only among xanthomonads. The variants of the stage of synthesis of tyrosinase and melanin in bacteria, due to which the black-brown pigment is formed, and the lack of research on the pathway of tyrosinase synthesis in phytopathogenic bacteria, in particular X. fuscans subsp. fuscans, are analized. The data on genotypic properties of X. fuscans subsp. fuscans, its affinity with other pathogens of the genus Xanthomonas that cause diseases of leguminous plants, and the possible role of the phenomenon of «horizontal gene transfer» in their affinity along with differences in biological properties are considered. The analyzed literature indicates the potential danger of the causative agent of small brown spot of legumes and the need for constant monitoring of the spread and study of its biological properties to develop methods for controling the spread of X. fuscans subsp. fuscans.
Antioxidants as supplements during drug-induced thrombocytopenia: a comparative analysis of Vanillic acid, L-carnitine and Caripill™
Authors:   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, Mithun M. , Rajashekaraiah V. ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India;
Published: February 2024

Drug-induced thrombocytopenia (DIT) is a disorder where platelet count declines as an adverse effect of therapeutic drugs. Plant extract of C. papaya Caripill™ is known to elevate platelet count under thrombocytopenic conditions. To evaluate the contribution of supplements with antioxidant potential to treat DIT, the comparative study of Caripill™, vanillic acid L-carnitine effect on platelet count and indices of oxidative stress in a model of rat thrombocytopenia induced through oral administration of hydroxyurea was performed. Wistar rats were grouped into four categories with five animals in each group: control (without any treatment); control + antioxidants; thrombocytopenia; thrombocytopenia + antioxidants. The above-mentioned antioxidants were supplemented orally at 50 mg/kg for 7 days. The level of lipid peroxidation products­, superoxides, protein carbonyls and sulfhydryls, SOD and CAT activity in isolated platelets as oxidative stress markers, and indices of platelets aggregation and ATP secretion as functional markers were used. Vanillic acid was shown to be beneficial, similar to Caripill™, during hydroxyurea-induced thrombocytopenia by maintaining platelet functions, enhancing both the antioxidant capacity of platelets and its number. L-carnitine efficiently up-regulated the enzymatic antioxidants, maintained platelet functions and protected lipids and proteins from oxidation in thrombocytopenic rats, however, it could not improve the platelet count. These findings open new avenues for employing the studied antioxidants as supplements for therapeutic purposes.
Fetuin-A level in patients with untreated thyroid dysfunction
Authors:   Clinical Biochemistry Department, Al-Nahrain University, Medicine College, Iraq, Idan A. S. , Hamzah M. I. ,   Clinical Biochemistry Department, Al-Nahrain University, Medicine College, Iraq;, Khudhair M. S. ,   Internal Medicine Department, Al-Nahrain University, Medicine College, Iraq;
Published: February 2024

Fetuin-A, a plasma glycoprotein, has been demonstrated to play an essential role in the pathogene­sis of several metabolic disorders. This study aimed to estimate fetuin-A serum level in patients with newly diagnosed primary hyperthyroidism (PHT) and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and to examine its correlation with thyroid hormones level, age and sex of patients. The study involved 90 patients with untreated thyroid dysfunction verified with thyroid function test (45 with PHT and 45 with SCH) and 90 control subjects. Triiodo­thyronin (T3), tetraiodothyronin (T4), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) serum concentrations were measured with enzyme-linked fluorescent assay (ELFA), fetuin-A concentration was measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). It was demonstrated that the level of fetuin-A was significantly higher in the PHT group as compared with the control group and showed a significant positive correlation with the T3 level. In the SCH group, the level of fetuin-A was significantly lower and showed a negative correlation with TSH level. Fetuin-A level rose with age in the PHT group and was unaffected by sex in all studied groups. The perfect AUC value obtained for fetuin-A in the comparison between PHT and SCH groups suggests its potential use as a reliable diagnostic marker to differentiate between these two thyroid conditions.
In the footsteps of a biochemical luminary: the scientific legacy of Yakub Parnas
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine, Kobylinska L.
Published: February 2024

The article is dedicated to commemorating Yakub Karol Parnas, an eminent figure in biochemistry and a professor in the Department of Physiological (Biological) Chemistry at Lviv Medical University. It underscores the profound impact of Yakub Parnas on Ukrainian biochemistry, shedding light on intriguing facets­ of his personality during his highly productive two decades at Lviv University. His research significantly contributed to the unveiling of anaerobic glucose metabolism, later acknowledged as the Embden-Meyerhoff-Parnas pathway. Professor Yakub Parnas and his Lviv school conducted pivotal studies on enzymatic transformations associated with anaerobic muscle function and alcoholic fermentation, glycogen phosphorolysis, revelation of ATP synthesis within glycolysis, pioneering use of radioactively labeled phosphorus in biological experiments. Keywords: Biochemistry, Embden-Meyerhoff-Parnas pathway, Jakub Parnas, Lviv
THERAPEUTIC USE OF LAVENDER OIL
Authors: Popova-Dobreva D.
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT PURPOSE To establish the scientific directions of lavender oil research and its therapeutic use. METHODS An analysis was made of the available methodological literature in the medical database PubMed related to Lavender oil. Known empirical therapeutic uses of lavender oil are Relaxation and stress relief. Lavender oil is known for its calming properties, which can help promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety; Pain relief: Lavender oil has analgesic properties, which means it can help relieve pain. Skincare: Lavender oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and heal minor skin irritations like acne, insect bites, and minor burns; Respiratory support: Digestive health: Lavender oil may also help support digestive health by reducing inflammation in the gut and promoting healthy digestion. RESULTS 501 scientific studies with Lavender oil were found in the medical database PubMed. This publication analyzes the directions of scientific studies. CONCLUSIONS Lavender oil is a popular essential oil that has been used for centuries for its therapeutic properties. A significant part of scientific research is aimed at proving empirically known therapeutic applications.
Investigation of phenolic contents and in vitro biological activities of Inula helenium subsp. pseudohelenium extracts
Authors: Alan Y. , Yılmaz N. , Cabuk M.
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the phenolic profile, antioxidant capacity, and biological activity of Inula helenium subsp. pseudohelenium extracts, for the first time. Phenolic substances in leaf ethanol (L-EtOH), leaf pure water (L-PW), root ethanol (R-EtOH), and root pure water (R-PW) extracts of I. helenium subsp. pseudohelenium plant were investigated by HPLC. Also, the antimicrobial (hollow agar), antioxidant, antiproliferative, and DNA protective activities of the samples were examined in vitro. Gallic acid was not detected in the extracts, the presence of curcumin was detected only in EtOH extracts. L-EtOH exhibited the best antimicrobial activity. According to the antioxidant results, the L-EtOH extract had an activity profile close to the standard antioxidants in general. It was also found that the L-EtOH extract stabilised the DNA by disrupting the scavenging effect of H2O2+DMSO. According to the antiproliferative activity results, EtOH extracts exhibited the strongest effect, especially against MCF7 cancer cell lines. When evaluated in general terms, it was found that L-EtOH extract showed better activity than other extracts. It is important to conduct more in vivo and in vitro studies after isolating the active components of extracts e.g. L-EtOH, which have good effects in terms of biological activity.
Reseña de libro: Wartenberg, Thomas E. Thoughtful Images. Illustrating Philosophy Through Art. Oxford University Press, New York, 2023, 328 pp.
Authors: Martínez-Ciriero Mikel
Published: February 2024

Book Review
Reseña de libro: L. Polo, Cursos y seminarios (Tomo II) (G. Castillo y J. A. García González, eds.), en Obras Completas, Serie B, vol. XXXIV. EUNSA, Pamplona, 2023, 408 pp.
Authors: Bueno-González Antonio
Published: February 2024

Book Review
Conjugation of tetracycline with carrier proteins and production of its polyclonal antibody for the development of rapid test
Authors: Ngo Thu Huong  , Huyen Hoang Thi , Phong Truong Quoc
Published: February 2024

Tetracycline (TC) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used in the treatment of several infectious diseases. The excessive use of tetracycline antibiotics, especially tetracyclines in livestock, has raised concerns about residues of tetracycline antibiotics in food that may affect consumers' health. It is necessary to develop a rapid test strip for detecting tetracycline antibiotic residues in food and animal feed. This paper presents the suitable conditions for the conjugation of tetracycline to BSA or KLH: molar ratio of TC:BSA/KLH was 25:1, formaldehyde concentration of 5 %, temperature of 4oC and reaction time of 4 hours. The KLH-TC conjugate was used to successfully raise polyclonal antibodies against TC in rabbits. The anti-TC polyclonal antibodies were purified and could be used for the development of the lateral flow immunoassay test strip for the detection of tetracycline.
De la prensa local a las historias nacionales. Nuevos acercamientos metodológicos para el estudio del periodismo local y regional en México
Authors: Del Palacio Montiel Celia
Published: February 2024

En el presente artículo se hace un recorrido analítico a partir de 252 artículos y ponencias sobre historia de la prensa en dos publicaciones y seis congresos en América Latina, con énfasis en México. Se prueba que prevalecen los estudios monográficos y estudios sobre representaciones con escasos intentos de reflexión sobre el propio hacer, sobre metodologías o acercamientos teóricos. Se concluye el trabajo con una propuesta de historias conectadas, como alternativa para trascender los límites autoimpuestos sobre historias regionales o nacionales y encontrar cómo circularon las ideas y cómo se conectan diversos aspectos, analizando la naturaleza de las conexiones.
Acercamiento metodológico para el estudio de la prensa del Caribe en Costa Rica (1884-1950)
Authors: Vega Jiménez Patricia
Published: February 2024

En Costa Rica la región atlántica es un espacio multiétnico y pluricultural que se diferencia claramente del resto del país. Para 1900 el Caribe era una zona con una población mayoritariamente afrodescendiente, que compartían el espacio con chinos, italianos y centroamericanos. Estas personas laboraron en la construcción del ferrocarril y luego en la United Fruit Company (UFCO). Los altos índices de alfabetización favorecen la lectura de los periódicos y hubo más de 20 intentos por establecer impresos regulares que fracasaron por diversas razones. El único que se mantuvo por más de dos décadas fue La Voz del Atlántico, (1934-1946), financiado con publicidad diversa. El objetivo es plantear una propuesta metodológica para estudiar la historia de la prensa en el Caribe costarricense, considerando el circuito comunicativo, es decir aplicar el modelo general que planteó Robert Darnton para analizar el modo en que los periódicos nacen y se distribuyen por la sociedad, es decir que va del autor al lector pasando por el editor, el impresor y distribuidor. El lector completa el circuito.
Una propuesta metodológica diseñada desde la “periferia” de las Islas Canarias para paliar el reduccionismo de las historias del periodismo español elaboradas desde el “centro”
Authors: Yanes Mesa Julio Antonio
Published: February 2024

En el presente trabajo exponemos una propuesta metodológica para abrir los contenidos de las síntesis históricas clásicas sobre el periodismo español, ceñidos a los enclaves más desarrollados, a todo el territorio estatal. Para justificar su acometida, hemos partido de los vacíos y equívocos sufridos por el espacio más periférico del país, las Islas Canarias, así como de lo mucho que enriquece su aplicación en dicho archipiélago al estado de los conocimientos. A la vista de ello, proponemos su extrapolación a las demás regiones para, a partir de ellas, construir una nueva Historia del Periodismo Español que responda al estatuto epistemológico actual de la disciplina.
Algebraic theory of degenerate general bivariate Appell polynomials and related interpolation hints
Authors: KHAN Subuhi , HANEEF Mehnaz , RİYASAT Mumtaz
Published: February 2024

The algebraic study of polynomials based on determinant representations is important in many fields of mathematics, ranging from algebraic geometry to optimization. The motivation to introduce determinant expressions of special polynomials comes from the fact that they are useful in scientific computing in solving systems of equations effectively. It is critical for this application to have determinant representations not just for single valued polynomials but also for bivariate polynomials. In this article, a family of degenerate general bivariate Appell polynomials is introduced. Several different explicit representations, recurrence relations, and addition theorems are established for this family. With the aid of different recurrence relations, we establish the determinant expressions for the degenerate general bivariate Appell polynomials. We also establish determinant definitions for degenerate general polynomials. Several examples are framed as the applications of this family and their graphical representations are shown. As concluding remarks, we propose a linear interpolation problem for these polynomials and some hints are provided.
Psychosocial experiences of Foundation Phase teachers in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Thilakdhari Jayshree , Jairam Visvaranie
Published: February 2024

In this article we present an exploration and understanding of the lived psychosocial experiences of Foundation Phase teachers (FPTs) in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic. This phenomenological research was conducted with a specific group of 6 FPTs from 3 provinces in South Africa, namely, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Gauteng (GP) and the Western Cape (WC). Purposive sampling was selected alongside availability and convenience of the research participants. Multiple methods of generating data were selected: semi-structured interviews, collage inquiry and metaphor drawing. The Psychosocial Development Theory was used as a theoretical framework to offer lenses in exploring and understanding the psychosocial experiences of FPTs who were working during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Throughout data interpretation and analysis, vignettes were presented through themes and sub-themes and collage portraiture was used as an analysis tool to support and enliven the analysis. The research findings reveal that FPTs in South Africa had knowledge and understandings of the COVID-19 pandemic, experienced a variety of challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, and needed intervention strategies to support them during the COVID-19 pandemic. A psychosocial development research intervention model has been created for FPTs to work during the COVID-19 pandemic or in similar emergencies.
Tracking Sargassum in the Caribbean: the design, deployment, and validation of a low-cost surface drifter
Authors:   , Pixa Chase R.
Published: February 2024

This thesis presents the development of a low-cost surface drifter designed to track and monitor the abundant Sargassum seaweed in the Caribbean. The phenomenon of the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt (GASB), inundating coastlines in the northern equatorial Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, has raised concerns due to its negative impacts on marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and tourism. The introduction section provides background information on the arrival of Sargassum in the Caribbean and its ecological significance. One of the key motivations behind the drifter’s development is the potential use of Sargassum as a feedstock for biofuel production. A comprehensive literature review assesses the feasibility of utilizing Sargassum for biofuels, taking into account infrastructure, economics, and scientific challenges. Although Sargassum holds promise as a renewable biomass source, several hurdles must be addressed, including consistent biomass production, processing techniques, and lack of industrial-scale biofuel plants using macroalgae. The core of the thesis is dedicated to the surface drifter development and field trials. Iterative trials are conducted to design a drifter that entangles with Sargassum, providing in situ movement data to complement remote sensing and modeling efforts. The drifter’s design is optimized to mimic Sargassum rafts, and successful deployments off the coast of Puerto Rico demonstrate the potential for effective tracking. The drifter’s association with Sargassum rafts is validated through satellite imagery and wind and current data. In parallel, a low-cost chemical sensing drifter is introduced in the thesis. This advanced drifter iteration incorporates self-validation mechanisms for Sargassum entanglement and enables the measurement of dissolved gases. The chemical sensing capabilities enhance the understanding of Sargassum rafts’ dynamics and their environmental impact. The thesis concludes by summarizing the key findings and implications of the research. The low-cost surface drifters have shown promising potential for tracking Sargassum and studying its movement patterns within the GASB. The drifter’s effectiveness in entangling with Sargassum provides valuable insights into the seaweed’s behavior and could help improve existing remote sensing and modeling techniques.
Distribution and behavior of trace metals in the subterranean estuary of an Arctic coastal lagoon
Authors:   , Schaal Isabel V.
Published: February 2024

Subterranean estuaries (STEs) can be an important location for biogeochemical reactions that may alter concentrations of chemical constituents of groundwater. With warming in the Arctic and the subsequent permafrost thaw, the relative importance of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) to ocean chemical budgets will grow. In this study, we examined the distribution of select trace metals (Fe, Mn, V, U, Mo and Ba) in the STE, lagoon surface waters, and coastal sediments of Simpson Lagoon along the Beaufort Shelf of Alaska. This location is unique among studies as the STE consists of organic-rich sediments. Samples were collected over two years and throughout seasonal water conditions, including the melting, open-water, and freeze-up periods. Fe, Mn, V, and Ba mainly exhibited non-conservative additions within the estuary, with Fe concentrations being some of the highest among groundwater studies. U exhibited both non-conservative removal and addition in the estuary, and Mo exhibited mainly removal. In the lagoon, non-conservative addition of U allowed for the calculation of an SGD flux. This flux, along with a Ra-derived flux, was used to estimate metal fluxes into the lagoon. Fluxes for all metals were similar to or greater than river flux estimates in all months except for June, when SGD was likely nonexistent. These fluxes can be used to assess SGD impact on the coastal Arctic; however, for reactive metals, processes in the lagoon may continue to alter metal concentrations before mixing with the greater Arctic Ocean. This study provides some of the first estimates of trace metal concentrations and fluxes within Arctic subterranean estuaries and exhibits the importance of considering SGD when assessing metal input to the coastal Arctic.
Reinterpretaciones y multivocalidad a lo largo del tiempo en una zona monumental: el complejo arqueológico Mateo Salado (Lima, Perú)
Authors: Pajuelo Pedro Espinoza
Published: February 2024

Mediante una aproximación teórica hacia una historia integrada o articulada, sustentada en la metodología del Continuum cultural (Espinoza et al. 2023), se trazan las múltiples formas en que la Pirámide E del complejo arqueológico Mateo Salado (Lima, Perú) ha sido usada y por lo tanto reinterpretada y monumentalizada por diversos grupos humanos que han coexistido o se han sucedido en el tiempo. Se muestra así que un monumento es un espacio multívoco y en cambio constante, y no nada más la manifestación pública y representativa de una élite en el poder. Sin embargo, para prever que no haya un solo discurso que domine, el monumento debe posibilitar espacios de encuentro y dialogo democrático, como es el evento “Encuentro por la fraternidad y la tolerancia religiosa” que se celebra en Mateo Salado desde el 2018.
O azorrague de Deus: a reemergência pública da esquerda evangélica entre 2016 e 2018
Authors: Medeiros Vítor Queiroz de
Published: February 2024

O artigo apresenta a reemergência pública do ativismo político da esquerda evangélica e a situa na conjuntura de recrudescimento da polarização política nacional e da radicalização ideológica da direita evangélica. Essa reemergência, como demonstrado, precede a ascensão bolsonarista. Tais atores evangélicos “progressistas” ou de “esquerda” competem com a direita evangélica por visibilidade e legitimidade, distinguem-se de seus pares conservadores, desautorizam seus líderes como representantes dos evangélicos e promovem valores progressistas nesse meio religioso por meio de um repertório ordenado com elementos organizativos e argumentativos.
Reconceptualizing an idealistic ancient China: refraction and transcreation in the English renderings of Chuang Tzu
Authors: Lin Jiaxin , Yu Xinbing
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Chuang Tzu, one of ancient China’s cultural canons, has been translated into massive English versions in the past century. Consequently, these English renderings, to some extent, reflect the chronological change of reconceptualization of ancient China’s image from the people’s perspective from English-spoken countries. Thus, from the angle of imagology in comparative literature, this paper probes into the recreated ancient China’s images manifested through the refractions and transcreations in the English translations of Chuang Tzu interpreted by overseas translators. As a result, different national images have been found in Chung Tzu’s expedition into the English world, which respectively are a gospel-graced ancient China, a mysterious ancient China, an ecological ancient China and a multi-faceted ancient China. Through a meticulous study of the image variations, the operational mechanism of Sino-foreign translational communication has been clarified to better burrow into the formation of the Westerns’ general impression on the Eastern nation.
Analyzing literary emptiness and substance: a perspective informed by Tang Junyi’s neo-Confucian philosophy
Authors: Hongqin Yu
Published: February 2024

Abstract: The objective of this study is to thoroughly analyze and interpret Tang Junyi’s ideas about emptiness and substance in literature and art in a systematic manner. To achieve a comprehensive understanding of Tang Junyi’s viewpoints, we initially employed the “close reading method” to carefully examine all of his works. Additionally, we utilized the “conceptual analysis method” to focus on identifying and explaining key concepts in his literary ideas. At the same time, we compared Tang Junyi’s ideas with other scholars’ research findings, using the “literature comparison method”. After conducting a thorough examination, the author concludes that Tang Junyi’s perspective on emptiness and substance in literature and art is not an independent intellectual construct, but rather a unique viewpoint formed within the backdrop of traditional Chinese culture and philosophy. This concept is central to his literary theory and serves as a prominent element within his philosophical framework. By exploring the realm of “emptiness and substance” within Tang Junyi’s literary ideas, we can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for his impact on literature and philosophy. This exploration also presents fresh perspectives and conceptual structures for the examination of Chinese literary theory and culture.