bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of lumpy skin disease in cattle at Netrokona sadar in Bangladesh
Authors: Biswas Subrato , Shil Sagar Chandra , Akter Rupa , Saud Basant , Kakon Souman Dey , Nirob Ahmed Ishtiak , Masum Md Abdul
Published: September 2024

Cattle farming is a significant contributor to the socio-economic development of Bangladesh. However, infectious diseases continuously challenge cattle farming, causing tremendous losses to farmers. Among the diseases, Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) has become a major burden in recent years. This study was conducted to reveal the prevalence of LSD in cattle in Netrokona Sadar Upazila. Data were collected directly from the cattle farmers at Upazila Veterinary Hospital (UVH), by visiting farms, and retrospectively from the register book of UVH from November 2022 to October 2023. Of the total of 2511 observed cattle, the prevalence of LSD was the second highest (16.97%). We further investigated the prevalence of LSD according to age, sex, breed, season, vaccination status, nutrition, hygiene, and deworming. LSD was more prevalent in young (17.67%), females (18.25%), cross-breed (23.96%), and non-vaccinated (17.28%) cattle. A higher prevalence was also found in the summer (38.77%) than in other seasons. Furthermore, we found more prevalence in cattle provided with traditional diets (18.22%), in unhygienic management (17.33%), and non-dewormed (18.63%) cattle. The findings illustrated that sex, immunization status, season of the year, and diet were significantly (p<0.01) associated with the prevalence of LSD. The study will aid stakeholders in evaluating the current state of LSD in the area and developing effective control strategies against it.
Res. Agric. Livest. Fish. Vol. 11, No. 2, August 2024: 137-147
Comprehensive Analysis of YCT Vocabulary Size and Gamification Strategies for Elementary Students
Authors: Yang Yang , Jirawit Yanchinda
Published: September 2024

In an era of globalization and increasing cultural exchange between nations, a large number of foreign language learners have turned proficiency in Mandarin into a vital skill that provides individuals with opportunities to enhance communication, cultural understanding and international cooperation. Simultaneously, China's growing economic influence and its pivotal role in global affairs further highlight the promising prospects for Chinese language acquisition. In this context, this study adopts the method of random sampling to assess the YCT vocabulary of 30 first-year students from different language backgrounds at a private school in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Meanwhile, semi-structured interviews with 10 experienced Chinese teachers using the method of purposive sampling are employed to further strengthen the research findings and capture their views on integrating gamification technology into Chinese language teaching. The findings, which reveal a clear gap between the vocabulary of Thai primary school students and the expected YCT standards, as well as feasible gamification strategies to address these issues, have prompted Mandarin educators to re-evaluate current Mandarin teaching methods. This study advocates the integration of gamification strategies in Mandarin teaching in primary schools to promote vocabulary acquisition and student participation. By elucidating the benefits of Mandarin proficiency in a global context and providing actionable recommendations for Mandarin teaching improvement, this study contributes to the ongoing discussion on language education and intercultural competency development.
Protecting Employers Property From Harm by Former Employees: What Can Be Used if Non-Compete Are No Longer Valid?
Authors: Zugelder Michael T.
Published: September 2024

Non-competition agreements employers have relied on to prevent former employee competition are increasingly unenforceable in the courts and may be banned altogether. Concerns that they unduly limit an individual’s ability to work have been joined by recent studies that show use is also causing several incidents of macroeconomic damage. Employers need to consider adopting alternative means to protect property interests that could be placed at risk by competing former employees. When doing so, care should be taken to use terms that comply with governing law and are made binding on employees only as necessary to protect employers’ at-risk property interests.
Baicalin Ameliorates Cartilage Injury in Rats With Osteoarthritis via Modulating miR-766-3p/AIFM1 Axis
Authors: Liu J , Zhou H , Chen J , Zuo Q , Liu F
Published: September 2024

The study aims to elucidate the therapeutic mechanism of Baicalin (BAI) in alleviating cartilage injury in osteoarthritic (OA) rat models, concentrating on its regulation of the miR-766-3p/AIFM1 axis. An OA rat model was developed with unilateral anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT). Interventions comprised of BAI treatment and intra-articular administration of miR-766-3p inhibitor. For evaluation, histopathological staining was conducted to investigate the pathological severity of knee cartilage injury. The levels of oxidative stress (OS) indicators including MDA, SOD, and GSH-Px, were quantified using colorimetric assays. Inflammatory factors (IFs; TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) in knee joint lavage fluids were assessed using ELISA, while RT-PCR was employed to quantify miR-766-3p expression. TUNEL apoptosis staining was utilized to detect chondrocyte apoptosis, and western blotting examined autophagy-related markers (LC3, Beclin, p62), extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis-associated indices (COL2A, ACAN, MMP13), and apoptosis-inducing factor mitochondrion-associated 1 (AIFM1). Histological examination revealed a marked amelioration of cartilage injury in the BAI-treated OA rat models compared to controls. BAI treatment significantly reduced inflammation and OS of knee joint fluid, activated autophagy, and decreased chondrocyte apoptosis and ECM degradation. Interestingly, the inhibitory effects of BAI on these pathological markers were significantly decreased by the miR-766-3p inhibitor. Further assessment revealed that BAI efficiently promoted miR-766-3p expression while inhibiting AIFM1 protein expression. BAI potentially mitigates articular cartilage injury in OA rats, likely through modulation of miR-766-3p/AIFM1 axis.
Prototype Of A Web-Based Human Capital Information System Using SCRUM Method
Authors: Aziza Yumaika Nistia , Abdillah Leon A.
Published: September 2024

The Human Capital Information System (HCIS) is software that manages staff data, payroll, and other everyday duties in the Human Capital sector. The Human Resources Management System aims to increase performance and eliminate mistakes in business processes to aid operational operations in the human resources department, particularly in recruiting, personnel data management, wage calculations, and promotions. While the system construction pipeline follows an SCRUM strategy for pipeline planning, which includes storyboarding (product owner) based on features to be generated, a product backlog, sprints, daily SCRUM, and sprint reviews, we also utilize qualitative data collecting approaches. This IS is connected with employee attendance, the human resource management system may help gather data and information on employee attendance in an accurate and efficient manner, as well as speed up and reduce mistakes in computing employee wages.
Analisa Domain Operasional Untuk Pengukuran Tingkat Kematangan Tata Kelola Layanan E-Government Menggunakan Framework COBIT 2019 Pada Dinas Kominfo Kota Palembang
Authors: Sutabri Tata , Dinata Aria , Majduddin Majduddin , Agustriani Nyimas Hamidah Purnama
Published: September 2024

Abstract : The COBIT Framework 2019 is an international framework designed to regulate and control e-Government services, focusing on security, efficiency, and effectiveness, to ensure effective governance in modern society. The Palembang Communication and Information Office conducted an assessment of the maturity level of information system risk management using the COBIT 2019 framework. This study aims to provide benefits to e-Government service managers at the Palembang City Communication and Information Office by understanding the maturity level of e-Government service governance, understanding the role of the COBIT 2019 framework in measuring this maturity, providing references for e-Government service managers, and developing and managing government service governance. The results showed that the level of enterprise IT Risk management capability was at level 3 in the EDM03 domain and level 2 in the APO12 domain. However, limited access to research affected these results. The capabilities of the organization have a GAP level of 1 each, with level 4 in the EDM03 domain and 3 in the APO12 domain.
Abstrak : Kerangka COBIT 2019 adalah kerangka kerja internasional yang dirancang untuk mengatur dan mengendalikan layanan e-Government, dengan fokus pada keamanan, efisiensi, dan efektivitas, untuk memastikan tata kelola yang efektif dalam masyarakat modern. Dinas Komunikasi dan Informatika Palembang melakukan penilaian tingkat kematangan manajemen risiko sistem informasi dengan menggunakan framework COBIT 2019. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan manfaat kepada pengelola layanan e-Government pada Dinas Komunikasi dan Informatika Kota Palembang dengan memahami tingkat kematangan tata kelola layanan e-Government, memahami peran framework COBIT 2019 dalam mengukur kematangan tersebut, memberikan referensi bagi para pengelola layanan e-Government, dan pengembangan dan pengelolaan tata kelola pelayanan pemerintah. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tingkat kapabilitas manajemen Risiko TI perusahaan berada pada level 3 pada domain EDM03 dan level 2 pada domain APO12. Namun, terbatasnya akses penelitian mempengaruhi hasil ini. Kapabilitas yang dimiliki organisasi memiliki level GAP masing-masing sebesar 1, dengan level 4 pada domain EDM03 dan 3 pada domain APO12.
Sistem Informasi Pengusulan Pembuatan Kartu Bagi Pegawai Pada Kantor Badan Kepegawaian Dan Pengembangan SDM Kota Palembang
Authors: Marlindawati Marlindawati , Agustina Merry
Published: September 2024

This research produces an information system that can be used in the process of proposing the manufacture of employee cards, wife cards or employee husband cards at the office of the Palembang City Human Resources Development and Personnel Agency. The system is built using PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) and MySQL programming languages and based on waterfall method for its development process. With this information system, the process of making employee cards, wife cards and employee husband cards can be done more optimally and quickly including the presentation of reports to the head of the office and for employees can be a matter of pride
Pengaruh Penggunaan Dan Keefektifan Aplikasi Srikandi Terhadap Sistem Persuratan Di Organisasi Perangkat Daerah (OPD) Kecamatan Di Kabupaten Nganjuk
Authors: Purwati Linda
Published: September 2024

Advances in information and communication technology are increasingly developing, the industrial revolution in the government sector has brought changes to the correspondence system. The SRIKANDI application is one of the media for the revolution of letters from paper or physical form to electronic or digital form. In the SRIKANDI application there are menus for creating letters, sending letters, dispositioning, signing, and archiving letters. The aim of this research is to analyze the influence of the use and effectiveness of the SRIKANDI application on the correspondence system in the Subdistrict Regional Apparatus Organization (OPD) in Nganjuk Regency. Using explanatory research and a quantitative approach. Data analysis uses classical assumption tests, multiple linear regression tests, and hypothesis testing. The results of data processing show that there is an influence on the use and effectiveness of the SRIKANDI application on the correspondence system in the Subdistrict Regional Apparatus Organizations (OPD) in Nganjuk Regency, both partially and simultaneously
Diatoms of large flat reservoirs of the Volga River basin: ecological and cenotic aspects
Authors: Korneva Ludmila G.
Published: September 2024

Based on long-term studies of phytoplankton of the Volga River basin reservoirs, from the 1950s to the present, the main patterns of spatio-temporal changes in the ecological-floristic and coenotic parameters of diatoms are presented. A correlation was established between the species richness of diatoms and the morphometry of reservoirs. It is shown that under conditions of increasing trophy of reservoirs and climate change against the background of an increase in the diversity of diatoms due to alien invaders, their biomass began to decrease. The spring peak of diatoms became lower than the summer peak of cyanobacteria. The long-term variation of diatoms biomass was significantly associated with changes in hydrometeorological parameters. Between dominant species an increase of limnophilic species abundance tolerant to a high content of organic matter and salts was observed. The influence of zoning on the distribution of ecological and floristic groups of diatoms along the longitudinal profile of reservoirs has been established.
Interesting species in the collection of diatoms at the Karadag scientific station
Authors: Davidovich Nickolai A.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of the collection of diatoms of the Karadag Scientific Station and the species of diatoms from the collection that are interesting from the point of view of studying problematic issues, in particular, taxonomy and evolution, toxicogenic, of applied importance, and potentially useful for biotechnology, are briefly described.
Structure of Quaternary and Neogene systems in the International Stratigraphic Scale: modifications of the last years
Authors: Gladenkov Andrey Yu.
Published: September 2024

Changes concerning the structure of Quaternary and Neogene systems occurred in recent years in the International Stratigraphic Scale are discussed.
YÜZBAŞI GÂVUR MÜMİN ROMANINDAKİ TOPLUMSAL YAPI VE İLİŞKİLERE OLUŞUMSAL YAPILSALCI BİR YAKLAŞIM
Authors: Bulut Muhammet Ali , Gök Hasan Hüseyin
Published: September 2024

Bu çalışmada Erdoğan Baysal tarafından kaleme alınan Yüzbaşı Gâvur Mümin romanındaki toplumsal yapı ve ilişkilerin oluşumsal yapısalcı eleştiri üzerinden ortaya konulması amaçlanmıştır. Çalışmanın problemi romandaki toplumsal yapı ve ilişkilerin siyasî, ekonomik, kültürel ve dinî boyutta neler olduğudur. Siyasi çözümlemelerde romana konu olan İzmir’in işgali sürecinde, Yunanlıların ve onların en büyük destekçisi Batılı devletlerin işgal hareketinin temelinde ırkçılık politikasının varlığına vurgu yapılırken Batılı devletlerinin asıl amacının işgal değil Türk milletini yok etmek olduğu belirtilmektedir. Kültürel ve dini boyutta Türk-Yunan karşıtlığından hareketle bir yanda bağımsızlığı, can, mal ve namus güvenliği için imkânsızlıklar içinde mücadele veren Türk milleti diğer yanda güçlü olmanın verdiği cesaretle her türlü zulmü, haksızlığı yapma hakkına sahip olduğunu düşünen bir Yunan askeri kuvvetinin varlığı dikkat çekmektedir. Türklerin ahlakı, mücadelesi, insana saygısı, hoş görüsü yüceltilirken Yunanlıların içki ve kadına düşkünlüğü, para hırsları, cana kıymaları olumsuzlanmıştır. Ekonomik boyutta ise savaşın temel sebeplerinden birinin de silah ve tahıl ticareti yapan bankerlerin servetlerine servet katmak olduğu belirtilmiştir. İzmir’in işgalinde yerli Rumlar; lüks şatafat ve eğlence içinde yaşarken Türklerin büyük çoğunluğunun fakirlik içinde yaşamak zorunda kaldığı anlaşılmaktadır.
Kedudukan Perempuan dalam Upacara Adat Perkawinan Orang Tolaki di Desa Mendikonu Kecamatan Amonggedo Kabupaten Konawe
Authors: Dinasari Mey , Koodoh Erens Elvianus
Published: September 2024

This study explores the role of women in the Tolaki traditional marriage ceremony and the perspectives of men and women on this role. The research adopts a qualitative descriptive method and draws on socialist feminism theory. The findings reveal that women play a crucial role in various stages of the marriage customs. For instance, during the Mondutudu or proposal stage, the mother of the male/female side accompanies the family during the proposal. After the proposal, the bride-to-be is guided by a Tono Motuo or Female Traditional Leader, often the grandmother, who provides valuable advice for the future household. Additionally, women play a central role during the engagement ceremony, as they arrange for the treat of sekapur sirih Kalo Sara. The male party presents this treat through the Pabitara, which is then received by the woman. These customs highlight the important role women have in the Tolaki traditional marriage ceremony.
Penggunaan Lahan Tidur di Desa Lamorende Kecamatan Tongkuno
Authors: Asrun Muh. , Marhadi Akhmad , Zainal Zainal
Published: September 2024

This study aims to determine the use of idle land by the Lamorende Village, Tongkuno District, Muna Regency community. Using James S. Coleman's Rational Choice theory, this research answers the problem of idle land use. The method used is ethnography with in-depth observations and interviews, and purposive sampling for informant selection. The data was analyzed descriptively to make it easier to read and apply. The results showed that idle land is used with a borrow-and-manage system for short-term agriculture, without permission to build permanent buildings or raise livestock. This land use is very influential on people's lives, being the main source of income for them. The community feels helped by the increase in income from this land.
Anatomical Variations of the Canalis Sinuosus: A CBCT Study
Authors: Tetik Hatice , Zafersoy Akarslan Zühre
Published: September 2024

Objective: Canalis sinuosus (CS) is a bony canal separated from the infraorbital nerve containing the anterior superior alveolar vessel-nerve bundle. This study aimed to assess the anatomical variations of the canalis sinuosus from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.
Methods: CBCT images of 568 patients (328 females and 240 males; aged between 18 and 81 years old) were evaluated retrospectively. Axial, sagittal, coronal, and cross-sectional images with 0.5 mm slice thicknesses were used to evaluate the presence of CS and associated accessory canal (AC).
Results: Bilateral CS was detected in the entire sample (n=568, 100%). A total of 340 ACs were detected, including at least one AC in 41.9% of the patients. The median value of AC diameter was calculated as 0.89 mm both for females and males. ACs were found in 135 females and in 103 males. One up to five ACs were found per patient. However, the majority of the patients had one AC. ACs were mostly located at tooth
region 11 (17.9%) and tooth region 12 (16.4%). Only 59.71% of ACs had a radiographically observed foramen.
Conclusion: In conclusion, all patients had CS and ACs were in nearly half of the patients. Knowledge about these structures aid to correct radiographic diagnosis of these canals and minimize the risk of complications during surgical procedures.
A simple cell proliferation assay and the inflammatory protein content show significant differences in human plasmas from young and old subjects
Authors: Muraglia A. , Utyro O. , Nardini M. , Santolini M. , Ceresa D. , Agostini V. , Nencioni A. , Filaci G. , Cancedda R. , Mastrogiacomo M.
Published: September 2024

Some studies showed a “rejuvenating” effect of exposing aging tissues to a young environment. In mouse heterochronic parabiosis experiments, in response to young organisms, old animals lived longer than isochrony old age-matched conjoint animals. Comparable “rejuvenating” effects were obtained by injecting young plasma in old mice. This raised great hopes of slowing down the senescence process in humans by the injection of young plasma, as well as to prevent or cure age-related diseases. Some clinical trials are currently being performed or were recently completed. However, these studies are small and of limited duration, and we still lack convincing evidence to support the effectiveness of young plasma injection. It is urgent to perform additional investigations, including the development of an assay to measure the cell proliferation induction capability of different human plasmas, before one can seriously think of a large-scale treatment of humans. We adopted a simple method to measure the potential of different plasmas in supporting cell line proliferation, regardless of the co-presence of a platelet lysate. By comparing plasmas from young and old subjects, we observed a decreased activity in plasmas from old individuals. The young plasma effect may be attributed to specific proteins and growth factors more abundant in younger individuals that could decrease with age. Alternatively, or at the same time, the reduced cell proliferation support could be due to inhibitors present in the old plasma. Studying the different protein content of young and old plasmas was out of the scope of this article. Such differences should be adequately investigated by proteomics using many samples. However, a preliminary study of the different protein content of young and old plasmas was part of the assay validation using a commercially available cytokine array for parallel determination of the relative levels of 105 selected human proteins. We could show the existence of specific differences between young and old plasmas and that plasmas from old individuals presented a higher concentration of “inflammatory” proteins.
Exploring the predictive values of CRP and lymphocytes in coronary artery disease based on a machine learning and Mendelian randomization
Authors: Liu Yuan , Yuan Xin , He Yu-Chan , Bi Zhong-Hai , Li Si-Yao , Li Ye , Liu Yan-Li , Miao Liu
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To investigate the predictive value of leukocyte subsets and C-reactive protein (CRP) in coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

We conducted a Mendelian randomization analysis (MR) on leukocyte subsets, C-reactive protein (CRP) and CAD, incorporating data from 68,624 patients who underwent coronary angiography from 2010 to 2022. After initial screening, clinical data from 46,664 patients were analyzed. Techniques employed included propensity score matching (PSM), logistic regression, lasso regression, and random forest algorithms (RF). Risk factors were assessed, and the sensitivity and specificity of the models were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Additionally, survival analysis was conducted based on a 36-month follow-up period.

Results

The inverse variance weight (IVW) analysis showed that basophil count (OR 0.92, 95% CI: 0.84–1.00, P = 0.048), CRP levels (OR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.73–1.00, P = 0.040), and lymphocyte count (OR 1.10, 95% CI: 1.04–1.16, P = 0.001) are significant risk factors for CAD. Using LASSO regression, logistic regression, and RF analysis, both CRP and lymphocyte counts were consistently identified as risk factors for CAD, prior to and following PSM. The ROC curve analysis indicated that the combination of lymphocyte and CRP levels after PSM achieves a higher diagnostic value (0.85). Survival analysis revealed that high lymphocyte counts and low CRP levels are associated with a decreased risk of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE) (P < 0.001). Conversely, a higher CRP level combined with lymphocyte counts correlates with a poorer prognosis.

Conclusion

There is a causal relationship between lymphocytes, CRP and CAD. The combined assessment of CRP and lymphocytes offers diagnostic value for CAD. Furthermore, high CRP levels coupled with low lymphocyte counts are associated with a poor prognosis.
Glucocorticoid receptor response and glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper expression in neutrophils of critically ill patients with traumatic and non-traumatic brain injury
Authors: Lotsios N.S. , Vrettou C.S. , Poupouzas G. , Chalioti A. , Keskinidou C. , Pratikaki M. , Giannopoulou V. , Kotanidou A. , Vassiliadi D.A. , Dimopoulou Ioanna , Vassiliou A.G.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Critically ill patients, including those with brain injuries (BI), are frequently hospitalized in an intensive care unit (ICU). As with other critical states, an adequate stress response is essential for survival. Research on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal gland (HPA) axis function in BI has primarily focused on assessing ACTH and cortisol levels. However, the immunological, metabolic, and hemodynamic effects of glucocorticoids (GCs) are mediated through the glucocorticoid receptor (GCR), a ubiquitously distributed intracellular receptor protein. Data on GCR-α expression and its signaling in acute BI injury are lacking.

Methods

We designed a prospective observational study, carried out in one academic multi-disciplinary ICU. Forty-two critically ill patients with acute (BI)were included. These patients suffered from traumatic BI (N= 20), subarachnoid hemorrhage (N= 12), intracranial hemorrhage (N= 7), or ischemic stroke (N= 3). All patients were steroid-free. Twenty-four age and sex-matched healthy controls were used for comparison.

Results

Expression of GCR-α and the glucocorticoid-inducible leucine zipper (GILZ), serum cortisol, interleukins (IL) 6, 8, 10 and TNF- α, and the BI biomarkers glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and total Tau were measured on ICU admission (within 48 hours) and 5-7 days from admission. Compared to healthy controls, in the critically ill patients with BI, GCR-α mRNA expression was significantly downregulated on admission, and after 5-7 days in the ICU (2.3-fold, p<0.05 and 2.6-fold, p<0.01, respectively). Even though GCR-α was downregulated, its downstream gene, GILZ, was expressed at the same levels as in normal controls on admission and was significantly upregulated 5-7 days following admission (2-fold, p<0.001). TNF-α levels were undetectable at both time-points. GCR-α expression levels inversely correlated with IL-6. The levels of cortisol and the BI biomarkers did not differ between the 2 time-points.

Conclusions

We provide novel evidence on the downregulated expression and upregulated signaling of the ligand-binding and functionally active GCR-α isoform in the polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) of critically ill patients with BI. The increased GILZ expression indicates an increased GC sensitivity in the PMNs of BI critically ill patients.
Assessing the current situation of constructed wetland-microbial fuel cells as an alternative power generation and wastewater treatment in developing countries
Authors: Jacobs Damien Georges , Kachienga Leonard Owino , Rikhotso Mpumelelo Casper , Abia Akebe Luther King , Traoré Afsatou Ndama , Potgieter Natasha
Published: September 2024

Developing countries facing population growth and increased energy demand present simultaneous challenges regarding wastewater treatment and electricity supply. Constructed wetland-microbial fuel cells (CW-MFCs) offer a dual solution to the challenges of insufficient electricity and wastewater treatment by integrating indigenous plant species. CW-MFCs provide sustainable power generation and wastewater treatment. This approach can enhance sustainability and foster a circular economy by utilising plant-derived byproducts as an added product. Current research indicates various novel designs for effective wastewater treatment and potential power generation. Future studies focusing on rural settings and upscaling operations can apply advanced techniques like mass spectrophotometry and metagenomics to refine the technology for grid use. Developing CW-MFC technology will catapult the idea of developing a robust strategy for addressing power supply and sanitation issues in developing regions. This will also aid in continuous research into system optimisation and microbial communities, aiding long-term viability.
Combined toxicity of multiwall carbon nanotubes and cadmium on rice (Oryza sativa L.) growth in soil
Authors: Long Jinghua , Wang Xuanxuan , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2024

The comprehensive effects of nanoparticles and coexisting heavy metals on plant growth are still unclear, especially in soil medium. The single and combined effects of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and cadmium (Cd) on rice (Oryza sativa L.) growth were examined in this study through a 4 months pot experiment in 2022. Rice plants were exposed to different concentrations of MWCNTs (100 and 500 mg kg−1) in the presence of 5.0 mg kg−1 Cd stress. At the tillering stage, the 500 mg kg−1 MWCNTs addition reduced plant height by 8.0% and increased soluble protein content in the leaves by 13.7%, demonstrating that a single MWCNTs had a slight negative impact on rice growth. When exposed to Cd stress, the inclusion of 500 mg kg−1 MWCNTs led to a 6.7%–9.0% decrease in bioavailable Cd level in soil, resulting in considerable reductions in Cd content in roots (23.4%–29.9%), shoots (24.5%–28.3%) and grains (28.3%–66.2%). Compared to the single Cd treatment, the O. sativa L. leaves treated with Cd and MWCNTs (500 mg kg−1) had considerably reduced levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), soluble protein, and activities of antioxidant enzymes (POD, CAT, and SOD). The findings of this study indicated that appropriate concentrations of MWCNTs application in soil could alleviate Cd-induced toxicity on rice growth.
Does rafting promote contemporary gene flow? Global and regional patterns of population genetic diversity and structure on the false limpet Siphonaria lateralis in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Millán-Medina Constanza , Lizama Marcelo , Saucède Thomas , Poulin Elie , Segovia Nicolás I. , González-Wevar Claudio
Published: September 2024

Rafting has been proposed as an effective mechanism for species without free-living pelagic larvae to achieve long-distance dispersal, theoretically preventing population differentiation over wide distributional ranges. Moreover, rafting has been advocated as a main dispersal mechanism for marine invertebrates with sub-Antarctic distributions, because of abundant buoyant kelps, driven by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. Nonetheless, little attention has been given to the role of rafting to establish regular gene flow across the sub-Antarctic, and the geographic and temporal scales at which it occurs. Aiming to unravel these major questions about the extent of genetic connectivity across the Southern Ocean (SO), we studied the pulmonate limpet Siphonaria lateralis, a benthic species with encapsulated larvae, found on the rocky intertidal of sub-Antarctic islands and southern South America. Since S. lateralis is closely associated with D. antarctica, dispersal by rafting is plausible, as revealed by the absence of phylogeographic structure across the sub-Antarctic. We sampled 116 individuals from eight localities across the SO, and used 5,515 SNPs obtained through Genotyping-by-Sequencing, to determine contemporary genetic diversity, structure, and gene flow at two spatial scales; global, across the SO, and regional, within Kerguelen. Results identified substantial genetic structure, differentiating Patagonia, Falklands/Malvinas Islands, South Georgia and the Kerguelen archipelago, and low levels of contemporary gene flow. The most notable genetic differentiation was found between Patagonia/Falklands and South Georgia/Kerguelen. Structure was also significant between Patagonia and the Falkland/Malvinas Islands. Conversely, South Georgia and Kerguelen exhibited closer genetic affinity, and indications of recent but limited gene flow. Moreover, historical gene flow estimates between the four populations were low. At regional scale, noteworthy genetic structure persisted, and gene flow was insufficient to prevent genetic differentiation within Kerguelen. Consequently, rafting’s potential may be overestimated as a contemporary mechanism promoting gene flow across the SO, as these events may be sporadic, irregular, and unpredictable for marine invertebrates lacking a larval dispersal stage, since contemporary dispersal events don’t seem to facilitate high gene flow at both scales. Accordingly, other oceanographic factors or processes may hinder the establishment of species associated with macroalgae, and as consequence, contemporary genetic connectivity in the sub-Antarctic.
Targeting cell death mechanisms: the potential of autophagy and ferroptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma therapy
Authors: Liu Beibei , Liu Ling , Liu Yang
Published: September 2024

Ferroptosis is a type of cell death that plays a remarkable role in the growth and advancement of malignancies including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have a considerable impact on HCC by functioning as either oncogenes or suppressors. Recent research has demonstrated that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have the ability to control ferroptosis in HCC cells, hence impacting the advancement of tumors and the resistance of these cells to drugs. Autophagy is a mechanism that is conserved throughout evolution and plays a role in maintaining balance in the body under normal settings. Nevertheless, the occurrence of dysregulation of autophagy is evident in the progression of various human disorders, specifically cancer. Autophagy plays dual roles in cancer, potentially influencing both cell survival and cell death. HCC is a prevalent kind of liver cancer, and genetic mutations and changes in molecular pathways might worsen its advancement. The role of autophagy in HCC is a subject of debate, as it has the capacity to both repress and promote tumor growth. Autophagy activation can impact apoptosis, control proliferation and glucose metabolism, and facilitate tumor spread through EMT. Inhibiting autophagy can hinder the growth and spread of HCC and enhance the ability of tumor cells to respond to treatment. Autophagy in HCC is regulated by several signaling pathways, such as STAT3, Wnt, miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs. Utilizing anticancer drugs to target autophagy may have advantageous implications for the efficacy of cancer treatment.
Broadband acoustic pseudospin topological states based on the reverse spin-orbit coupling in generalized insulators
Authors: Liu Chongrui , Lu Yibing , He Zhenxin , Guan Wenliang , Huang Zhen
Published: September 2024

Acoustic topological insulators have the excellent characteristic of the pseudospin-dependent one-way transmission of sound edge states immune to backscattering. We realize the broadband acoustic pseudospin topological edge states with subwavelength generalized topological insulators, which is achieved by reverse pseudospin-orbit coupling. The subwavelength band and broadband nontrivial bandgap can be achieved by adjusting the topological structure of the scatterers and introducing resonators. The results demonstrate that the resonator can significantly reduce the frequencies of p-states and d-states by introducing resonance scattering; the scattering size and rotation angles change the frequencies of p-states and d-states in opposite directions by adjusting the distribution of the sound field. Then, we experimentally realize the pseudospin-dependent one-way transmission of sound edge states along the interface separating phononic crystals with distinct topological phases. Our research provides a systematic scheme for the design of acoustic topological insulators with versatile applications.
Comparative efficacy of different single drugs to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants: an update systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Jing , Chen Xiao , Huang Xiaoling , Liu Jia , Yu Qingfeng
Published: September 2024

Objective

To investigate an optimal regimen of six drugs, including lactoferrin, probiotics, prebiotics, glutamine, arginine and erythropoietin (EPO), for the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm infants.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Ovid, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the efficacy of lactoferrin, probiotics, prebiotics, glutamine, arginine, and EPO in preventing NEC in preterm infants, with a cutoff date of June 20, 2024. Two authors independently screened studies and extracted all the data. Network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted to compare the outcomes of different interventions, and group rankings were determined using the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA).

Results

A total of 89 RCTs with 26,861 preterm infants were included. Arginine demonstrated the highest clinical efficacy in reducing the incidence of NEC, with probiotics being the next most effective and the placebo being the least effective. Lactoferrin was identified as the most effective intervention for reducing the incidence of NEC-associated sepsis. Prebiotics showed the highest effect on overall mortality, reducing the beginning of enteral feeding, and were associated with the shortest hospital stay. Glutamine significantly decreased the time to full enteral feeding.

Conclusion

Existing literature highlights arginine as the most efficacious pharmacological agent in preventing NEC in preterm infants. It has been shown to effectively lower the rates of NEC, septicemia, and mortality, warranting its recommendation as the first-line clinical intervention. Following this, probiotics are recommended as a second option.
Literature-based database to inform policy making on marine plastic pollution in ASEAN+3
Authors: Lim Cheng Ling , Lyons Youna , Liu Yulu , Neo Mei Lin , Müller Moritz , Wong Changi , Cordova Muhammad Reza , Sulistiowati Sulistiowati , Abreo Neil Angelo S. , Ko Gyi Thanda , Onda Deo Florence , Baculi Ronan , Charoenpong Chawalit , Lalung Japareng , Le Hoang Hai Anh , Li Daoji , Zhu Lixin
Published: September 2024

The ASEAN+3 countries urgently need to present actual data on the state of their marine plastics pollution, so that they can respond to the criticisms of being the top-5 global sources of marine plastics based on modeled predictions, as well as to develop effective response policies based on sound data. While the research outputs on marine plastic pollution have increased spectacularly across these countries, their overall resource capacity to access the data remains lacking. This study describes a robust framework developed to use >700 peer-reviewed research publications from the region that can inform policy-making. First, detailed metadata fields were developed for this database focused on extracting information from the publications that are relevant to regional policy questions being asked to adequately respond to the threats posed by marine plastics. Second, the curation of research publications in this database greatly depended on a team of regional researchers, who were apt in the subject matter and a native language speaker. The latter was critical in the capture of non-English articles to boost the quality of database. Some of the key findings from the broad analyses included the rapid increase in research efforts on marine plastics between 2014 and 2021, which coincided with the growing concerns of this environmental crisis, the dominant publication language was English despite the diversity of countries, and the dominant research topic appeared to be of policy response measures. Overall, the database produced adequate and immediate data, where policy-makers can leverage for urgent actions. For example, the output on the status of marine plastic pollution is ever-increasing, but the region could start to focus on knowledge gaps (e.g., sampling in critical sensitive habitats like seagrasses and coral reefs). Finally, this study presented a comprehensive summary of the current state of marine plastic pollution and knowledge gaps (e.g., technical capacity and equipment) of the region that can facilitate discussions among target audience including the governments as well as international and regional regulating bodies, the research community and plastic waste management professionals.
Overexpression of serum HMGB1 and IDO in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients: potential clinical auxiliary diagnostic markers and immunotherapeutic targets
Authors: Cui Wenxuan , Niu Yinghao , Zhang Xueyuan , Huang Beixuan , Shang Xiaoya , Zhao Wei , Yan Xi , Mi Yunqiang , Ma Ming , Zhang Jinyan , Yang Xingxiao
Published: September 2024

Background

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and indoleamino-2, 3-dioxygenase (IDO) participate in the occurrence and development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), regulate the tumor immune microenvironment, and are closely related to tumor growth and metastasis. However, the regulatory mechanism of serum HMGB1 and IDO has not been clarified and needs further exploration.

Methods

Blood samples of 55 ESCC patients initially hospitalized in the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University from August 2021 to January 2022 were selected as the ESCC group, and relevant clinical data were collected, and blood samples from 40 healthy people during the same period were selected as the control group. Serum HMGB1 and IDO levels were determined by ELISA, and lymphocyte subsets in peripheral blood of all subjects were detected by flow cytometry. The correlation between the expression levels of HMGB1 and IDO in ESCC cells was detected by Western blot.

Results

Serum HMGB1 and IDO levels were significantly increased in ESCC patients, and with the progression of ESCC patients, serum HMGB1 and IDO levels were also gradually increased; serum HMGB1 was significantly correlated with IDO; serum HMGB1 and IDO combined with CEA and SCC-Ag were of high value in predicting the clinical progression of ESCC patients; the absolute counts of CD4+CD28+T cells and CD8+CD28+T cells in high HMGB1 group were significantly lower than those in low HMGB1 group, while the percentage of CD4+PD-1+T cells was significantly higher than that in low HMGB1 group; the percentage and absolute counts of CD4+CD28+T cells and the absolute counts of CD8+CD28+T cells in high IDO group were significantly lower than those in the low IDO group, while the percentage of CD8+PD-1+T cells was significantly higher than that in the low IDO group; increased serum HMGB1 and IDO expression levels were closely related to poor prognosis in ESCC patients; and HMGB1 may promote IDO expression by activating NF-κB signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Serum HMGB1 and IDO have a synergistic effect, they inhibit immune function and promote tumor progression in ESCC patients, and also lead to poor prognosis.
Chitosan/hesperidin nanoparticles formulation: a promising approach against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers via Sirt1/FOXO1/PGC-1α/HO-1 pathway
Authors: Alamoudi Jawaher Abdullah , El-Masry Thanaa A. , El-Nagar Maysa M. F. , El Zahaby Enas I. , Elmorshedy Kadreya E. , Gaballa Mohamed M. S. , Alshawwa Samar Zuhair , Alsunbul Maha , Alharthi Sitah , Ibrahim Hanaa A.
Published: September 2024

Hesperidin (Hes) protects different organs from damage by acting as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. This study aims to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of free hesperidin and its chitosan nanoparticles (HNPs) against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats, hypothesizing that HNPs will enhance bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy due to improved solubility and targeted delivery. HNPs were synthesized via ion gelation and characterized using TEM, SEM, and zeta potential analyses. Key assessments included gastric acidity, histological analysis, and markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. HNPs significantly decreased gastric acidity, reduced inflammatory and apoptotic markers, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities compared to free hesperidin and esomeprazole. Furthermore, Sirt-1, PGC-1α, HO-1, and FOXO1 gene expression were also evaluated. HNPs raised Sirt-1, PGC-1α, HO-1, and downregulated FOXO1, and they suppressed the activities of NF-κB p65, COX-2, IL-1β, CD86, FOXO1 P53, and caspase-3 and increased Sirt-1 activity. HNPs treatment notably restored antioxidant enzyme activity, reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, and improved histological outcomes more effectively than free hesperidin and esomeprazole. These results indicate that chitosan nanoparticles significantly enhance the gastroprotective effects of hesperidin against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers, potentially offering a more effective therapeutic strategy. Further research should explore the clinical applications of HNPs in human subjects.
An investigation into the correlation between intraperitoneal teicoplanin concentrations and treatment outcomes in peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis
Authors: Wang Lulu , Fan Jiangqing , Chen Xuejie , Lei Wenpu , Jiang Chunming , Liu Hang , Yang Yun , Shen Jizhong
Published: September 2024

Peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis (PDAP) is a frequent complication of peritoneal dialysis. The guidelines from the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis (ISPD) suggest administering teicoplanin through the peritoneal route to treat PDAP, but do not specify the ideal concentration for peritoneal dialysis effluent (PDE). Patients meeting the trial criteria for PDAP in our hospital between July 2022 and December 2023 were enrolled. Data on PDE white blood cell count, PDE neutrophil percentage, clinical symptoms, CRP, and PCT were gathered pre- and post-treatment. Incidences of adverse drug reaction (ADR) and case numbers during treatment were recorded. Subsequently, patients were categorized into cured and uncured groups for evaluating the relationship between PDE teicoplanin concentration and treatment effectiveness. The self-control study results on teicoplanin efficacy indicated intraperitoneal teicoplanin administration achieved an efficacy rate of 88.9% and an ADR incidence of 5.5% in treating PDAP patients. There was no observed correlation between teicoplanin blood concentration and PDE concentration. PDE teicoplanin concentrations on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 post-dosing were higher inthe cured group, with a significant contrast in PDE concentration on day 5 between the 18.98 ± 2.43 mg/L of the cured group and the 12.07 ± 2.68 mg/L of the uncured group. ROC curve revealed a higher likelihood of cure in patients when PDE teicoplanin concentration exceeded 15.138 mg/L on day 5 post-dosing. Univariate and multifactorial studies identified 24-h urine volume and the number of daily abdominal dialysis sessions as influential factors in PDE teicoplanin concentration on day 5. A positive correlation was found between 24-h urine volume and PDE teicoplanin concentration, with PDAP patients having urine volume over 537 mL showing significantly higher drug concentrations. Conversely, the number of daily PDAP sessions was negatively correlated with PDE teicoplanin concentrations, indicating that patients with 1∼3 daily PDAP sessions had notably higher PDE teicoplanin concentrations compared to those with 4∼6 sessions. Therefore, PDAP patients who use intraperitoneal teicoplanin could effectively control infection by monitoring the PDE teicoplanin concentration (>15.138 mg/L) on day 5 after dosing.