bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marmosets mutually compensate for differences in rhythms when coordinating vigilance
Authors: Phaniraj Nikhil , Brügger Rahel K. , Burkart Judith M.
Published: May 2024

Synchronization is widespread in animals, and studies have often emphasized how this seemingly complex phenomenon can emerge from very simple rules. However, the amount of flexibility and control that animals might have over synchronization properties, such as the strength of coupling, remains underexplored. Here, we studied how pairs of marmoset monkeys coordinated vigilance while feeding. By modeling them as coupled oscillators, we noted that (1) individual marmosets do not show perfect periodicity in vigilance behaviors, (2) nevertheless, marmoset pairs started to take turns being vigilant over time, a case of anti-phase synchrony, (3) marmosets could couple flexibly; the coupling strength varied with every new joint feeding bout, and (4) marmosets could control the coupling strength; dyads showed increased coupling if they began in a more desynchronized state. Such flexibility and control over synchronization require more than simple interaction rules. Minimally, animals must estimate the current degree of asynchrony and adjust their behavior accordingly. Moreover, the fact that each marmoset is inherently non-periodic adds to the cognitive demand. Overall, our study provides a mathematical framework to investigate the cognitive demands involved in coordinating behaviors in animals, regardless of whether individual behaviors are rhythmic or not.
Structural and practical identifiability of contrast transport models for DCE-MRI
Authors: Conte Martina , Woodall Ryan T. , Gutova Margarita , Chen Bihong T. , Shiroishi Mark S. , Brown Christine E. , Munson Jennifer M. , Rockne Russell C.
Published: May 2024

Contrast transport models are widely used to quantify blood flow and transport in dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. These models analyze the time course of the contrast agent concentration, providing diagnostic and prognostic value for many biological systems. Thus, ensuring accuracy and repeatability of the model parameter estimation is a fundamental concern. In this work, we analyze the structural and practical identifiability of a class of nested compartment models pervasively used in analysis of MRI data. We combine artificial and real data to study the role of noise in model parameter estimation. We observe that although all the models are structurally identifiable, practical identifiability strongly depends on the data characteristics. We analyze the impact of increasing data noise on parameter identifiability and show how the latter can be recovered with increased data quality. To complete the analysis, we show that the results do not depend on specific tissue characteristics or the type of enhancement patterns of contrast agent signal.
Effect of environmental variables on the abundance of Amblyomma ticks, potential vectors of Rickettsia parkeri in central Brazil
Authors: Gomes Isadora R. C. , Gurgel-Gonçalves Rodrigo , Gazeta Gilberto S. , Borsoi Ana B. P. , Bitencourth Karla , Leite Letícia F. , Coelho Nathália G. S. S. , Dislich Ricardo , Wiederhecker Helga C. , Santos Eduardo G. , Guimarães Melina
Published: May 2024

Amblyomma ticks are vectors of both Rickettsia rickettsii and R. parkeri in the Americas, where capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are the main hosts in urban areas, thus contributing to the transmission of spotted fever. Herein, we studied: (i) the seasonal dynamics and abundance of ticks in areas where capybaras live, (ii) the effect of environmental variables on tick abundance, and (iii) the presence of Rickettsia-infected ticks. Between September 2021 and September 2022, we sampled ticks using cloth-dragging at 194 sites on the shore of Lake Paranoá in Brasília, Brazil. We measured environmental data (season, vegetation type, canopy density, temperature, humidity, and presence or vestige of capybara) at each site. Nymphs and adults were morphologically identified to the species level, and a selected tick sample including larvae was subjected to genotypic identification. We investigated Rickettsia-infected ticks by PCR (gltA, htrA, ompB, and ompA genes) and associations between tick abundance and environmental variables using Generalized Linear Models. A total of 30,334 ticks (96% larvae) were captured. Ticks were identified as Amblyomma, with A. sculptum comprising 97% of the adult/nymphs. Genotype identification of a larval sample confirmed that 95% belonged to A. dubitatum. Seasonal variables showed significant effects on tick abundance. Most larvae and nymphs were captured during the early dry season, while the adults were more abundant during the wet season. Vegetation variables and the presence of capybaras showed no association with tick abundance. Rickettsia parkeri group and R. bellii were identified in A. dubitatum, while A. sculptum presented R. bellii. We conclude that: (i) Amblyomma ticks are widely distributed in Lake Paranoá throughout the year, especially larvae at the dry season, (ii) the abundance of Amblyomma ticks is explained more by climatic factors than by vegetation or presence of capybaras, and (iii) A. dubitatum ticks are potential vectors of R. parkeri in Brasília.
Investigating the impact of data heterogeneity on the performance of federated learning algorithm using medical imaging
Authors: Babar Muhammad , Qureshi Basit , Koubaa Anis
Published: May 2024

In recent years, Federated Learning (FL) has gained traction as a privacy-centric approach in medical imaging. This study explores the challenges posed by data heterogeneity on FL algorithms, using the COVIDx CXR-3 dataset as a case study. We contrast the performance of the Federated Averaging (FedAvg) algorithm on non-identically and independently distributed (non-IID) data against identically and independently distributed (IID) data. Our findings reveal a notable performance decline with increased data heterogeneity, emphasizing the need for innovative strategies to enhance FL in diverse environments. This research contributes to the practical implementation of FL, extending beyond theoretical concepts and addressing the nuances in medical imaging applications. This research uncovers the inherent challenges in FL due to data diversity. It sets the stage for future advancements in FL strategies to effectively manage data heterogeneity, especially in sensitive fields like healthcare.
Study of ecosystem service functions in typical receiving areas of the South-to-North Water Diversion Central Route based on a set of long time series
Authors: Guo Shaolei , Sun Shifeng , Zhang Xianqi , Yang Yang , Zheng Yupeng
Published: May 2024

Hebi is located in the northern part of China’s Henan Province and is a typical receiving area for China’s South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The assessment of habitat quality and water yield over a long time series is important for evaluating the stability of ecosystem services in Hebi and other receiving areas and for maintaining ecological security and promoting sustainable development. This paper aims to evaluate and dynamically analyse habitat quality and water yield in Hebi, and analyses the characteristics of changes in spatial and temporal patterns of land cover types, habitat quality and water yield in Hebi over the past 20 years, using 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020 as horizontal years. The results indicate that: (1) During the study period, the overall land use type in Hebi City has been constantly changing, with the most significant conversion from arable land to other land types; combined with its landscape pattern index, Hebi City has a general characteristic of significant landscape fragmentation and complexity in land use. (2) Habitat quality in Hebi shows an overall trend towards better development, with water availability decreasing and then increasing; the zoning of ecosystem services in Hebi is divided into three classes: superior, good and general, with the area covered by the superior and general classes expanding year by year. (3) Correlation analysis by SPSS software shows that the correlation between habitat quality and landscape pattern index is greater than the correlation between habitat quality and climate change. Additionally, the correlation between water availability and climate change is greater than the correlation between water availability and landscape pattern index.
Daily exposure to stressors, daily perceived severity of stress, and mortality risk among US adults
Authors: Glei Dana A. , Weinstein Maxine
Published: May 2024

Prior studies of perceived stress and mortality have yielded mixed results, but most are based on one-time measurements of perceived stress. We use daily diary data from the Midlife in the United States study to measure exposure to stressors and perceived severity of stress and investigate their associations with mortality. We also explore whether the associations vary by age and assess whether the associations are stronger for extrinsic than intrinsic mortality, which is more likely to be aging-related. The analysis included 4,756 observations for 2,915 respondents aged 21–95 who participated in at least one of three waves (1996–97, 2004–09, 2017–19) of the National Study of Daily Experiences. Participants reported daily stressors and perceived severity on 8 consecutive evenings at each wave. Mortality was followed through December 31, 2021. In fully-adjusted models, daily exposure to stressors was associated with mortality, but only at younger ages (HR = 1.20 per SD at age 50, 95% CI: 1.01‒1.42). The association was slightly stronger for extrinsic (HR = 1.31 per SD at age 50, 95% CI: 1.01‒1.69) than for intrinsic mortality, which was not significant (HR = 1.24 per SD at age 50, 95% CI: 0.98‒1.56). When we used an alternative measure of daily perceived severity of stress, the demographic-adjusted association appeared to be similar in magnitude, but after careful adjustment for potential confounding with health status, the association weakened and was no longer statistically significant (HR = 1.17 per SD at age 50, 95% CI: 0.99–1.37). Perceived severity was not significantly associated with either extrinsic or intrinsic mortality even at age 50. Most Americans die at older ages, where stress exposure does not appear to be significantly associated with mortality. Nonetheless, our results suggest that stress exposure is more strongly associated with midlife mortality, which has an undue influence on overall life expectancy.
Alimentação tradicional na Serra da Estrela
Authors: Cabral Óscar , Ramos Elsa
Published: May 2024

O estudo debruça-se sobre as práticas alimentares tradicionais e sustentáveis na região da Serra da Estrela (Portugal), com foco nos hábitos alimentares dos pastores, da população local e da forma como tal é explorado pelo tecido de restauração local. O papel dos alimentos na construção da identidade, na memória coletiva e no desenvolvimento de um sentimento de pertença regional é explorado. Com base numa metodologia qualitativa, a investigação inclui revisão bibliográfica, entrevistas semiestruturadas, questionários de aplicação direta e análise de menus da restauração. Os resultados revelam uma evolução nos hábitos alimentares tanto dos pastores quanto da população em geral, com um aumento na variedade de produtos consumidos, em resultado das transformações alimentares relacionadas com a sedentarização dos pastores, neste grupo, a evolução das tradições culturais, a disponibilidade alimentar de produtos não-regionais, entre outros. No entanto, o consumo de pratos tradicionais à base de carnes de ovino e caprino subsiste, sobretudo em momentos festivos. As práticas alimentares locais, do quotidiano e de dias de exceção, e que características da paisagem gastronómica regional, é passada para a oferta de restauração apenas na sua versão de exceção. Nos restaurantes locais, o foco culinário é principalmente nos pratos associados a momentos conotados como especiais, o que também se verifica ao nível da doçaria de sobremesa.
Microscopic and molecular epidemiology of gastrointestinal nematodes in dairy and beef cattle in Pak Chong district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand
Authors: Wangboon Chompunoot , Martviset Pongsakorn , Jamklang Mantana , Chumkiew Sirilak , Penkhrue Watsana , Rangdist Sainamthip , Jirojwong Ruttiroj , Phadungsil Wansika , Chantree Pathanin , Grams Rudi , Krenc Dawid , Piyatadsananon Pantip , Geadkaew-Krenc Amornrat
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim: Gastrointestinal (GI) nematode infection remains an important problem in livestock, particularly cattle. The infection may lead to serious health complications and affect animal products. The objective of this study was to investigate GI nematode infection and its associated risk factors in dairy and beef cattle farmed in Pak Chong District of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, northeast Thailand.

Materials and Methods: Fecal specimens were collected from 101 dairy cattle and 100 beef cattle. Formalin-ethyl acetate concentration techniques were used to process the samples and the samples were observed under a light microscope. Samples were subjected to molecular identification of specific genera using conventional polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing.

Results: The overall prevalence of GI nematode infection was 33.3%. The strongyle nematode was the most significant GI nematode in this area with a prevalence of 28.4%. The prevalence of strongyle nematodes was 58.0% in beef cattle and only 7.9% in dairy cattle. Trichuris spp. was another nematode found in both types of cattle with an overall prevalence of 5.0% with 9.0% in beef cattle and 1.0% in dairy cattle. The results of the epidemiological study indicate that the age of cattle, food, water sources, farming system, and housing floor are the most important risk factors. Among the strongyle nematodes, Ostertagia spp. was the most prevalent (82.0%), followed by Haemonchus spp. (62.3%) and Trichostrongylus spp. (8.2%), respectively.

Conclusion: Infection with GI nematodes still exists in this area, particularly in beef cattle. Our reported data may benefit local parasitic control policies in the future.

Keywords: beef cattle, dairy cattle, gastrointestinal nematode, strongyle nematodes.
A multicenter and epidemiological study of patterns and treatment strategies for mandibular condyle fractures
Authors: Cabral Luana Cardoso , Júnior Eduvaldo Campos Soares , Cabral Bianca Castro , Neto João Paulo da Silva , Furtado Lair Mambrini , Júnior Paulo Cézar Simamoto
Published: May 2024

To evaluate retrospectively the epidemiological characteristics of the prevalence, type and treatment modalities of the condylar mandibular fractures. Data of all patients who underwent surgical or nonsurgical management for condyle mandibular fracture were collected. The study was conducted to assess the trauma etiology, age group, gender, treatment method, anatomic distribution of injury and complications by reviewing patients’ records. There were 139 patients with 171 mandibular condylar fractures. Among these patients, 85% were men, with an overall male-to-female ratio of 5.6:1. The highest occurrence of trauma was in the 21-30 years age group. The most frequently observed etiology was motorcycle traffic accidents and the subcondylar region was the most common location with 109 fractures. There was statistically significant difference between treatments (p < 0,001). In the nonsurgical treatment group, the prevalence of complications was observed compared to the surgical group (p < 0.001). The predominant complications were: mouth opening limitation, mandibular deviation, malocclusion, temporomandibular disorder, paresthesia and facial paralysis. Considering the limitations of this study, subcondylar fractures were the most frequent, especially in men aged 21-30 years, and the surgical treatment showed the fewest complications.
Desafios do Microempreendedor Individual Florianense com relação à gestão financeira de seu negócio
Authors: Ramos de Passos Gomes Santiago Aiude , Viana Leal Lennilton
Published: May 2024

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar um estudo sobre os principais desafios encontrados pelo Microempreendedor Individual de Floriano - Piauí com relação à gestão financeira de seu negócio, bem como identificar quais os fatores que os influenciaram a se tornar um Microempreendedor Individual, além de verificar se eles possuem noção da importância da gestão financeira para a sobrevivência de um negócio e analisar se o microempreendedor detém de noções básicas sobre assuntos da gestão financeira, verificando portanto se há associação entre ter o conhecimento em noções básicas de gestão financeira com outras variáveis.  Sendo assim, ao final da pesquisa pretende-se resolver a seguinte problemática: Quais as principais dificuldades do Microempreendedor Individual na hora de fazer a gestão financeira do seu negócio? Para tanto, foi utilizado o método de pesquisa qualitativo com aplicação de questionário, onde através da análise de dados baseada na estatística descritiva foi possível concluir que o maior desafio apontado por eles encontra-se na separação das contas empresariais das contas pessoais. Além do mais, foi utilizada a estatística inferencial no cruzamento de dados de algumas variáveis da pesquisa onde conjuntamente foi aplicado o teste não-paramétrico Qui-quadrado, a fim de averiguar a associação estatisticamente significativa das variáveis.  Logo, ao final da pesquisa fica evidente que não possuir noção básica de gestão e controle financeiro acarreta graves consequências. Portanto, a pesquisa contribui de forma significativa com a área de conhecimento finanças, demostrando a importância da gestão financeira para todo e qualquer negócio independente do porte ou área de atuação.
Cardiovascular Disease and Inpatient Complications in Turner Syndrome: A Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: Alzahrani Talal
Published: May 2024

Background:

Turner syndrome is a genetic disorder that occurs in female individuals and is characterized by the absence of 1 of the X chromosomes. This study examined the risk of cardiovascular disease and inpatient clinical outcomes in patients with Turner syndrome.

Methods:

Data were extracted from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2016 database. Propensity score analysis was used to match women with Turner syndrome and women without Turner syndrome admitted to a hospital in the same year to evaluate the risk of cardiovascular disease and inpatient clinical outcomes in patients with Turner syndrome.

Results:

After 1:1 matching, 710 women with Turner syndrome and 710 women without Turner syndrome were included in the final analysis. Compared with women without Turner syndrome, women with Turner syndrome were more likely to have a bicuspid aortic valve (9.4% vs 0.01%; P < .01), coarctation of the aorta (5.8% vs 0.3%; P < .01), atrial septal defect (6.1% vs 0.8%; P < .01), and patent ductus arteriosus (4.6% vs 0.6%; P < .01). Patients with Turner syndrome were more likely to have an aortic aneurysm (odds ratio [OR], 2.46 [95% CI, 1.02-5.98]; P = .046), ischemic heart disease (OR, 1.66 [95% CI, 1.10-2.5]; P = .02), heart failure (OR, 3.15 [95% CI, 1.99-4.99]; P < .01), and atrial fibrillation or flutter (OR, 2.48 [95% CI, 1.42-4.34]; P < .01). Patients with Turner syndrome were more likely to have pulmonary arterial hypertension (OR, 2.12 [95% CI, 1.08-4.14]; P = .03) and acute kidney injury (OR, 1.60 [95% CI, 1.06-2.42]; P = .03) and to require mechanical ventilation (OR, 1.66 [95% CI, 1.04-2.68]; P = .04).

Conclusion:

Turner syndrome is associated with an increased rate of cardiovascular disease and inpatient complications. These findings suggest that patients with Turner syndrome should be screened and monitored closely for cardiovascular disease and inpatient complications.
An open geospatial database as a tool for geoheritage management at national scale: The case study of Greece
Authors: Pantazopoulou Zoe , Mouratidis Antonios , Alexakis Dimitrios D. , Tsioukas Vasileios , Perivolioti Triantafyllia-Maria , Terzopoulos Dimitrios , Kalaitzis Panagiotis
Published: May 2024

Geological heritage or geoheritage is of at least equal significance to – and sometimes also interwoven with – cultural heritage. Hence, it holds the potential of scientific, educational, cultural, aesthetic, and touristic value. Nevertheless, geoheritage has not attracted the same level of attention as cultural heritage to date, especially regarding its sustainable management and suitable conservation strategies. Yet actions and measures are mandatory to preserve and highlight geological heritage and to reduce threats that may cause its deterioration or even extinction. To this end, geospatial science and technology provide the means for documenting and dealing with geological heritage throughout the individual steps of the geoheritage management process. In this study, we present a holistic approach to geoheritage management at the national level for Greece, based on the implementation of a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) database that also enables the coupling of geoheritage with a plethora of readily available geospatial information from remote sensing and other sources. The results demonstrate that an appropriate, geospatial record of geological heritage can have a crucial contribution to geoheritage management from its identification, to its monitoring, protection, and exploitation for educational, scientific, recreational, and other purposes.
Differential Protein Expression between Type 1 Diabetic Cataract and Age-Related Cataract Patients
Authors: Qianqian Y. , Yong Yao , Zhaodong C. , Yonghui T. , Jun S. , Yuzheng H.
Published: May 2024

Diabetes has become one of the major diseases affecting human health. Diabetic cataracts (DCs) are considered a common complication in diabetic patients. The present study investigated differences in lens proteomic profiles between DCs and age-related cataracts (ACs) to determine the mechanism underlying the formation of DCs. Intrasurgical samples were collected from eight DC patients and 12 AC patients, and lens proteins were extracted by lysis and separated using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE). The electrophoretic bands were analysed using PD-Quest software 8.0.1. Differentially expressed proteins were identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) and peptide mass fingerprinting combined with protein database searching. In the 2-DE maps, the DC and AC lens proteins migrated in the region of pH 5–9 with a relative molecular weight (RMW) of 14–97 kDa, whereas the RMW of more abundant crystallin was 20–31 kDa. Approximately three protein spots with differential intensity were detected. Two crystallin proteins (αB and βB1) were identified using MALDI-TOF-MS. Proteomic analysis of the crystalline humour is feasible, and the proteins can be well separated; moreover, differentially expressed lens proteins can be analysed using 2-DE and mass spectrometry to compare DC and AC. The present results indicate that the αB and βB1 crystallins may accelerate the development of DCs. These techniques offer new avenues for mechanistic evaluation and future prevention or therapy of DCs.
Study the hepatoprotective effect of the methanolic extract of Plumbago auriculata Lam. against CCl4-induced hepatocyte damage in mice
Authors: Ahmed Massara Nazar , Khamees Amjed Haseeb
Published: May 2024

The liver is an important organ in the body; its diseases are considered the major causes of morbidity and mortality around the world. Hepatotoxic chemicals cause damage to liver cells. Medicinal plants have a powerful hepatoprotective effect. This study has been aimed to assess the potential hepatoprotective effect of the methanolic extract of Plumbago auriculata Lam. against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)- induced hepatocyte damage in albino mice. The methanolic extract of the plant was subjected to preliminary phytochemical analysis to determine the presence of secondary metabolites according to standard protocols. The acute toxicity study was carried out to measure the LD50. Swiss albino mice were divided into 4 groups treated intraperitoneally (IP) once daily for 7 days; the first group was a negative control, while the second group, considered as a CCl4 model, received a single dose of carbon tetrachloride during the last day. The third group received 500 mg/kg of body weight of methanolic extract of P. auriculata, and the last group received 100 mg/kg of body weight of standard silymarin, after 2 h of treatment, on the last day, all animals (except negative control group) have received CCl4 at a dose of 1 mL/kg of body weight. Biochemical analysis of collected blood and histopathological examination were performed. Results revealed that the preliminary phytochemical screening of the methanolic extract of the plant confirmed the presence of many biologically active secondary metabolites like flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, saponins, glycosides and phenols and LD50 of the extract was 2.5 g/kg. The CCl4- intoxicated mice showed an increase in biochemical enzyme levels (ALT and AST) compared with the negative control group. The extract of 500 mg/kg revealed a significant reduction (p ? 0.05) in enzyme activities. The histopathological analysis of plant extract and silymarin-treated groups revealed a decrease in the pathological features compared with the CCl4-intoxicated group. It was concluded that the extract of P. auriculata has a significant effect on hepatoprotection against CCl4-induced hepatocyte damage and this may be because of the combined effects of the bioactive compositions of plant extract.
Indexing heat stress-induced changes in Indian mustard germplasm using biochemical traits, stress tolerance indices and seed morphological features
Authors: Pandey Bharati , Vishwakarma Harinder , Ali Sharik , Kumari Sujata , Kashyap Anamika , Sharma Kriti , Kamna  , Bhardwaj Rakesh , Pandey Sangeeta , Yadav Rashmi
Published: May 2024

Heat stress in Brassica is a great threat to its productivity and it is a major abiotic challenge in the current scenario of changing global climatic conditions. Oil production from Brassica is the second largest production after soybean, globally. In this study, 32 Indian mustard accessions were evaluated (post-anthesis stage) under heat stress in field conditions during the rabi season of 2019-20, by being exposed to 3 different growing conditions i.e., early, optimum and late sowing. Biochemical assays were performed at the post-anthesis stage to analyze the best-performing accessions under heat stress during the rabi season of 2021-22. Seed morphological parameters and stress indices (MDA, proline content) were used to find high-performing accessions. The results showed a significant correlation between yield under stress and STI (stress tolerance index), YI (yield index), SSPI (stress susceptibility percent index) and MP (mean productivity), indicating the utility of these indices in the selection of heat-tolerant and high-yielding lines. Based on the morphological, seed yield and quality parameters, accessions IC280920, IC401575, IC426400, IC491509 and IC570301 were found tolerant to heat stress as compared to other accessions. Therefore, the selected accessions can be utilized to improve crop Brassica, especially under heat stress.
Dynamism of context: A case of joke interpretation
Authors: Jodłowiec Maria , Piskorska Agnieszka
Published: May 2024

While the recognition of context as a dynamic construct is pervasive, the process of selecting context during utterance comprehension in real time remains largely unexamined. This paper addresses this issue by exploring the dynamism of context as part of joke interpretation. We assume a relevance-theoretic definition of context understood as a set of mental representations involved in inferential processes that operate on a propositionally incomplete linguistic form and yield a speaker-intended meaning, consisting of the explicit and implicit import. We also adopt a model of joke comprehension combining the standard notion of incongruity resolution with that of weak communication, positing that when the punchline comes there is a broad array of assumptions that suddenly become manifest to the hearer, as a result of which he experiences an effect of inferential overload. This effect hinges on the ability to obtain access to, or to inferentially construct contextual assumptions that were previously not immediately accessible to the hearer or not represented in their cognitive resources at all. By analysing jokes of various structure (with or without a build-up, one-liners) we explore details of the dynamism of context selection and construction, in which the hearer’s encyclopaedic knowledge is essential. We provide arguments in favour of the view of context as an entity dependent on the hearer’s mental representations, inferential abilities and the universal drive to maximize relevance in utterance comprehension.
“Be Yo’self. It’s Just a Show”: Performing Community through the Comic Grotesque in Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s Neighbors
Authors: Saddik Annette J.
Published: May 2024

Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s play Neighbors, which premiered at the Public Theater in 2010, explores the history of Black representation in the theater and, subsequently, the performance of Black identity in the US through its depiction of a complex and contradictory minstrelsy that cannot easily be classified as satirical or subversive. Generating what Jacobs-Jenkins has called “wrong laughter” through contradiction, ambiguity, and ambivalence, Neighbors engages the unstable space of the comic grotesque in order to open up pathways for something new to emerge. In this play, the figure of the clown – a grotesque outlaw who moves between, within, across, and beyond boundaries – becomes a key destabilizing figure as the grotesque body becomes a site for transformation through its contradictions, oozing inconsistency and excess, and allowing a potential space for regeneration and renewal through instability and failure when the stable and the rational have failed. In its embrace of clowning and the comic grotesque, Neighbors questions the stable notion of “community,” particularly in terms of racial and historical identity, and exposes the contradictions of closed constructions, creating a space beyond the boundaries of rational discourse that may begin to engage a more complex reality.
Concerns of osteopathic medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hanna Odeh , Vinyard Christopher J. , Casapulla Sharon
Published: May 2024

Objectives

This study aims to quantify the areas of most concern in medical students in relation to their residency application in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify risk factors for all that cause concern and specific areas of concern in a population with well-established high rates of anxiety at baseline. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced sweeping changes to medical education that had wide-ranging effects on medical students and their applications for medical residencies.

Methods

In August 2020, we utilized a cross-sectional study to quantify student’s areas of concern related to residency application related to the COVID-19 pandemic. We asked participants to rate their levels of concern in 15 different aspects related to medical residency applications and the perceived impact that COVID-19 had on each.

Results

The survey was distributed to 984 osteopathic medical students, with 255 complete responses. The three areas of greatest impact were shadowing opportunities (4.15), volunteer opportunities (4.09), and conferencing opportunities (4.09). The most salient demographic variables were year in school, sex, and locale. Females reported higher levels of concern across all categories in the study compared to males, with statistical significance across all categories (all p<0.05, Range d=0.16 to 0.43), except for letters of recommendation and sub-internships.

Conclusions

The areas of most concern identified in our study were consistent with prior studies and may implicate the pressures that female medical students may feel compared to their male counterparts. The underlying cause(s) may be subject to future research.
ANO6 (TMEM16F) inhibits gastrointestinal stromal tumor growth and induces ferroptosis
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhao Wei , Wang Daorong , Chen Jin
Published: May 2024

Herein, we elucidate the potential role of ANO6 (TMEM16F) in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). ANO6 expression in GIST and adjacent normal tissues was determined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blotting. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and pyroptosis were examined utilizing 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP Nick-End Labeling staining, and flow cytometry. In addition, the total iron and Fe2+ levels were assessed. IL-18 and IL-1β levels were also evaluated. Lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS), cystine (Cys), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) levels were evaluated using appropriate kits. Ferroptotic markers, including Ptgs2, Chac1, SLC7A11, and SLC3A2, were analyzed by RT-qPCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. ANO6 expression decreased in GIST tissues. ANO6-plasmid inhibits proliferation, induces apoptosis, and promotes pyroptosis in GIST-T1 and GIST-T1 IR cells. The ANO6-plasmid induced ferroptosis, as confirmed by enhanced lipid ROS levels, increased intracellular concentrations of total iron and Fe2+, promoted Ptgs2 and Chac1 expression, reduced Cys, GSH, and GPX4 levels, and downregulated SLC7A11 and SLC3A2 expression after in vitro and in vivo treatment with ANO6-plasmid. Moreover, the ANO6-plasmid inhibited GIST growth in vivo. Therefore, ANO6 may be a promising therapeutic target for blocking the development of GIST via the induction of apoptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis.
Metaphors across cultures
Authors: Banaruee Hassan , Farsani Danyal , Khatin-Zadeh Omid , Eskandari Zahra
Published: May 2024

The way and degree to which people in different cultures consider a metaphor to be appropriate, acceptable, or apt has been the subject of controversy in recent decades. According to structure-mapping models, metaphors are understood by mapping relations from the base domain to relations in the target domain. However, previous research lacks literature on cross-cultural contexts and differences in the degree of acceptability of metaphors in different cultures. To address this gap, in this study we examined cross-cultural differences in metaphor aptness among participants from three different cultures. We developed two questionnaires, an acceptability judgment-task and a parallel-relation test using the COCA (English), PLDB (Persian), and KorAP (German) corpus databases. The results suggest striking differences in the acceptance of a metaphor in different cultures where the vehicle of a metaphor is not present. It is suggested that metaphors are considered apt through the process of categorizing the salient features that are considered structurally similar. This idea is partially consistent with studies that support class-inclusion models which suggest that hearers place the topic of a metaphor in a category in which the vehicle fits. The absence of a domain (whether topic or vehicle) may lead to unacceptability of a metaphor. Lack of cultural background in the use of these words hinders the process of finding a salient feature between them and the counter domain in a metaphor to form an appropriate alignment.
Compressive strength of waste-derived cementitious composites using machine learning
Authors: Tian Qiong , Lu Yijun , Zhou Ji , Song Shutong , Yang Liming , Cheng Tao , Huang Jiandong
Published: May 2024

Marble cement (MC) is a new binding material for concrete, and the strength assessment of the resulting materials is the subject of this investigation. MC was tested in combination with rice husk ash (RHA) and fly ash (FA) to uncover its full potential. Machine learning (ML) algorithms can help with the formulation of better MC-based concrete. ML models that could predict the compressive strength (CS) of MC-based concrete that contained FA and RHA were built. Gene expression programming (GEP) and multi-expression programming (MEP) were used to build these models. Additionally, models were evaluated by calculating R
2 values, carrying out statistical tests, creating Taylor’s diagram, and comparing theoretical and experimental readings. When comparing the MEP and GEP models, MEP yielded a slightly better-fitted model and better prediction performance (R
2 = 0.96, mean absolute error = 0.646, root mean square error = 0.900, and Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency = 0.960). According to the sensitivity analysis, the prediction of CS was most affected by curing age and MC content, then by FA and RHA contents. Incorporating waste materials such as marble powder, RHA, and FA into building materials can help reduce environmental impacts and encourage sustainable development.
BIOPOLIMEROWE MATERIAŁY AKTYWNE DO ŻYWNOŚCI
Authors: MIKUS MAGDALENA , GALUS SABINA
Published: May 2024

Background. The aim of the work was to discuss solutions used in the development of biopolymer ac tive materials for food for the food industry. Biopolymers such as polysaccharides, proteins and lipids are increasingly used in active food packaging materials due to their biodegradability and biocompatibility. In addition, they are used as carriers of various types of functional substances, e.g. antioxidant substances and agents inhibiting the development of pathogenic microorganisms, mainly to increase the safety of food products. In contrast to packaging made of biopolymers, the use of polymeric materials from non renewable raw materials has a significant impact on the environment and a negative impact on the accu mulation of packaging waste. Edible materials, utilized in the form of films or coatings, can extend the quality and shelf life of food. In addition, we can observe nowadays the use of gentle food processing methods, as well as new packaging materials derived from renewable raw materials. Results and conclusion. The key area of development is currently new strategies of active packaging in which natural substances can be used. Intensive scientific research is being carried out to create active packaging with improved mechanical, barrier, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The practical use of active packaging can have an impact on the reduction of food waste, and reducing this phenomenon is one of the goals of the circular economy model, which has also been included in the European Green Deal. This publication is a review of current research achievements regarding the use of food packaging materi als based on biopolymers, along with a discussion of various types of active substances and their impact on the durability of selected food products.
PRZEŻYWALNOŚĆ ŚRODOWISKOWYCH BIFIDOBACTERIUM SPP. ORAZ BAKTERII FERMENTACJI MLEKOWEJ W SERACH TWAROGOWYCH WYPRODUKOWANYCH Z UŻYCIEM KULTURY ŚRODOWISKOWEJ
Authors: MACIEJEWSKA NIKOLA , SZOSLAND-FAŁTYN ANNA , BARTODZIEJSKA BEATA
Published: May 2024

Background. Qualitative and quantitative composition of human intestinal microbiota depends on many factors. Those which are the most often mentioned include genetic and environmental determinants. Recent studies suggest that the structure of intestinal microbiota population differs not only regionally but also locally. Its composition determines the proper functioning of the entire body. In order to favorably colonize the intestine, a probiotic therapy can be implemented, significantly modulating the composition of intestinal microbiota. Owing to a correlation between the genetic diversity of LAB and their location, there is a need to isolate potential probiotic bacteria from the surrounding environment. Dietary supple ments and medicinal products containing probiotics available on the market often comprise too few mi croorganisms or a smaller number of species than declared on the packaging. The aim of the study was to determine the survival rate of environmental bacteria of the genus Bifidobacterium spp. and LAB, charac teristic of farms in the Świętokrzyskie Province, in curd cheeses produced from low-pasteurized milk and stored at 3 ± 2 °C for 14 days. Microbiological analyses were performed in accordance with ISO stand ards. Results and conclusions. Curd cheeses ensured a high number of bacteria of the genus Bifidobacte rium spp. and lactic acid bacteria meeting the requirements for probiotics. Environmental strains of Bifidobacterium spp. were characterized by good survivability in the tvarogs, exceeding their initial num ber after 14 days of storage. The curd cheeses were similar to each other in terms of overall acceptability during the sensory analysis throughout the entire storage period. The tested cheeses are in line with the current nutritional trends aimed at enriching the diet with natural products containing microorganisms characteristic of a given environment.
HEALTH BEHAVIOR OF CHILDREN FROM RURAL AREAS OF THE ELBLĄG DISTRICT (IN POLAND) WITH REGARD TO FAT CONSUMPTION: A PILOT STUDY
Authors: PLATTA ANNA , KOSZYŃSKA MAGDALENA , ŻUKOWSKA AGNIESZKA , MIKULEC ANNA
Published: May 2024

Background. Health behavior is one of the main determinants of human health. As civilization progres ses, the lifestyles of adults, children and adolescents are changing with consequences for the health of specific population groups. Therefore, knowledge about human nutrition and lifestyle factors that affect human health is also constantly changing. The aim of the study was to assess the selected health behaviors using the exam ple of the frequency of consumption of food being a source of saturated fat by rural children. One of the aspects concerning health behavior, namely fat intake as a measure of the consumption of unhealthy food, especially in the case of overconsumption, was assessed using the food frequency questionnaire. The valida ted Block Screening Questionnaire for Fat Intake (BSQF) was used for the assessment. Results and conclusions. The studied group of children from rural areas of the Elbląg District (Po land) showed an average level of health behavior exemplified by fat intake. Further research monitoring the health-promoting behavior and attitudes of children in rural areas is useful and justified for the diagno sis of whether actions are necessary to promote the formation of attitudes and hierarchies of health values. In the light of the challenges relating to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), needs and trends of a hedonistic nature are important. These include, among other things, the issue of ensuring health and taking greater care of the mental and physical well-being of children and adults (families).
ŻYWNOŚĆ JAKO BROŃ W OBLICZU AGRESJI ROSJI NA UKRAINĘ
Authors: WIŚNIEWSKA MAŁGORZTA Z.
Published: May 2024

Background. Food is a basic value for every human being and the food sector is the backbone of any economy. From the perspective of the individual consumer and society, food and proper nutrition affect body immunity, life expectancy or ability to live on a daily basis. They are also values that constitute a sense of broader physical and psychological security and human dignity. Unfortunately, food has also long been used as a weapon against enemies, resulting in a threat to food safety and food security. This is par ticularly evident in the war that continues in Ukraine. Given the fact that Russia has been considered a terrorist state, it is interesting to look at the phenomenon of its terrorist activities against food and the food chain. The purpose of this article is to present this phenomenon with particular attention to the situation in Ukraine. The purpose stems from the research hypothesis, which is as follows: Typical acts of food terror ism occur in Ukraine. The study used a critical analysis of the literature, a critical analysis of reports pub lished in the media (the press, Internet portals), an analysis of databases maintained by recognized agen cies dealing with terrorism, as well as the method of synthesis and logical inference. Results and conclusions. The article describes the phenomenon of food terrorism and its manifesta tions during Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Various definitions of food terrorism were presented, its varieties were distinguished and selected examples of its occurrence were indicated. A proposal was also made to include hunger terrorism in the category of food terrorism, recalling the events of the Holodomor in Ukraine in 1932-1933.
WPŁYW WYBRANYCH PRZYPRAW NA AKTYWNOŚĆ PRZECIWUTLENIAJĄCĄ I WALORY SENSORYCZNE TEMPEH
Authors: ADAMSKA IWONA , FELISIAK KATARZYNA , KILIAŃSKI KACPER
Published: May 2024

Background. Tempeh is a typical product of Asian cuisine with antioxidant, anticancer, neuroprotec tive and cardioprotective properties. Traditionally, it is made from soybeans without the addition ofseason ings, although they can improve the taste and bioactivity of the finished product. The aim of the research was to determine the effect of selected seasonings on the proximate composition, sensory values and antioxidant activity of tempeh. The research used: black pepper, salt, a mixture of salt and black pepper, smoked paprika and garlic powder. The content of dry matter, protein and non-protein nitrogen, peptides, ash and fat, the content of total polyphenols (TPC) and antioxidant activity against ABTS cation radicals (ABTS), the ability to scavenge DPPH free radicals, the ability to reduce iron(III) ions, and the ability to chelate iron(II) ions in ready tempeh were determined. Their structure and sensory values were also as sessed. Results and conclusions. The addition of seasonings changed the sensory properties and structure of tempeh and influenced its nutritional values and antioxidant activity. In terms of sensory evaluation, the best notes were given to tempeh with smoked paprika (1 % and 3 %), garlic (1 %) and salt (1 %), whereas the products with smoked paprika (1 % and 3 %) had the best structure. The addition of smoked paprika (1 % and 3 %) and garlic powder (3 %) resulted in a significant increase in protein content. The fat content increased in the samples with pepper (3 %), salt and pepper (1 % and 3 %) and paprika (1%), and the ash content increased in the samples with salt (3 % and 5 %) and salt and pepper (3 %). Smoked paprika (1 % and 3 %) and garlic powder (1 %) increased the antioxidant activity of tempeh.
RESEARCH ON THE RECOVERY OF RINSE WATER IN A MICROBREWERY
Authors: ZABOROWSKI MICHAŁ , POĆWIARDOWSKI WOJCIECH , DŁUGOSZ ANNA
Published: May 2024

Background. Water usage during beer production is one of the highest in the food processing indus try. The dynamically growing microbrewery market requires the implementation of water recycling sys tems. The research investigated and presented the technology for the recovery of rinse water from the brewing industry. A case study examined the usage of water during the brewing and cleaning process in a small brewery. Moreover, an analysis of brewery rinse water before and after purifying was conducted. Results and conclusions. The purified water obtained had high technological values, including lower turbidity, reduced content of nitrates and over two-fold increased content of chlorides and met the re quirements for drinking-grade water. The implementation of the analyzed system may both provide finan cial benefits and ensure compliance with sustainable development trends initiated by the largest breweries. The design and features of the analyzed purifying system make it possible to use it commercially in the microbrewing industry.