bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancements in precision medicine: multi-omics approach for tailored metformin treatment in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Anwardeen Najeha Rizwana , Naja Khaled , Elrayess Mohamed A.
Published: November 2024

Metformin has become the frontline treatment in addressing the significant global health challenge of type 2 diabetes due to its proven effectiveness in lowering blood glucose levels. However, the reality is that many patients struggle to achieve their glycemic targets with the medication and the cause behind this variability has not been investigated thoroughly. While genetic factors account for only about a third of this response variability, the potential influence of metabolomics and the gut microbiome on drug efficacy opens new avenues for investigation. This review explores the different molecular signatures to uncover how the complex interplay between genetics, metabolic profiles, and gut microbiota can shape individual responses to metformin. By highlighting the insights from recent studies and identifying knowledge gaps regarding metformin-microbiota interplay, we aim to highlight the path toward more personalized and effective diabetes management strategies and moving beyond the one-size-fits-all approach.
Cepharanthine as an effective small cell lung cancer inhibitor: integrated insights from network pharmacology, RNA sequencing, and experimental validation
Authors: Zhao Fengyun , Ding Zhaowei , Chen Mengting , Ji Mingfang , Li Fugui
Published: November 2024

Background

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive malignancy with limited treatment options and poor prognosis, underscoring the need for new therapeutic agents.

Methods

A library of 640 natural products was screened for anti-proliferative activity in SCLC cells. The effects of Cepharanthine (CE) on SCLC cells were assessed in vitro and in vivo. Network pharmacology and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) were used to elucidate the molecular mechanisms. Pathway enrichment analysis was performed using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) with Hallmark and Reactome gene sets. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks, along with the Cytoscape cytoHubba plugin, were used to identify key hub genes. RT-PCR and Western blotting were employed to validate mRNA and protein expression. Molecular docking studies assessed the binding affinity of CE to potential targets. Bioinformatics analyses, including expression profiling, prognostic evaluation, and loss-of-function studies, were used to explore the role of specific genes in SCLC.

Results

CE was identified as a promising SCLC inhibitor. In vitro, CE significantly inhibited SCLC cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion, while promoting apoptosis. In vivo, CE treatment notably reduced tumor volume in xenograft models. Network pharmacology identified 60 potential target genes, with enrichment analysis indicating their involvement in cholesterol metabolism regulation. RNA-seq and experimental validation further confirmed that CE inhibits cholesterol synthesis in SCLC cells by downregulating key enzymes, including HMGCR, HMGCS1, IDI1, FDFT1, and SQLE. Molecular docking studies confirmed the binding of CE to these enzymes. Additionally, these enzymes were found to be highly expressed in SCLC cells, with elevated levels of HMGCS1, HMGCR, and IDI1 correlating with poor prognosis. Functional assays revealed that silencing these genes significantly suppressed SCLC cell proliferation.

Conclusion

This study identifies CE as a potential therapeutic agent for SCLC, acting through the suppression of cholesterol synthesis, and uncovers novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of this aggressive cancer.
Molecular background of the diverse metabolic profiles in leaves and inflorescences of naked catmint (Nepeta nuda L.)
Authors: Petrović Luka , Filipović Biljana , Skorić Marijana , Šiler Branislav , Banjanac Tijana , Matekalo Dragana , Nestorović Živković Jasmina , Dmitrović Slavica , Aničić Neda , Milutinović Milica , Božunović Jelena , Gašić Uroš , Mišić Danijela
Published: November 2024

Nepeta nuda L. shares a typical secondary chemistry with other Nepeta species (fam. Lamiaceae), characterized by the tendency to intensively produce monoterpenoid iridoids, whereas the phenylpropanoid chemistry is steered towards the production of a caffeic acid ester, rosmarinic acid. Combining complementary state-of-the-art analytical techniques, N. nuda metabolome was here comprehensively characterized in the quest for the organ-specific composition of phenolics and terpenoids that possess well-defined functions in plant-biotic interactions as well as therapeutic potential. N. nuda inflorescences showed generally higher constitutive levels of specialized metabolites, as compared to leaves, and the composition of major iridoids and phenolics in reproductive organs was found to be more conserved than in leaves across 13 populations from the Central Balkans. The results suggest that N. nuda plants most likely invest more in constitutive than inducible biosynthesis of functional metabolites in flowers, since they are of essential importance for both pollination and defense against herbivores and pathogens. Conversely, specialized metabolism of leaves is found to be more susceptible to reprograming in response to differential growth conditions. The defense strategy of leaves, primarily functioning in CO2 fixation during photosynthesis, more likely relies on the induction of metabolite levels following plant-environment interplay. Organ-specific biosynthesis of iridoids in N. nuda is found to be tightly regulated at the transcriptional level, and high constitutive levels of these compounds in inflorescences most likely result from the up-regulated expression of several key genes (NnG8H, NnNEPS1, NnNEPS2, and NnNEPS3) determining the metabolic flux through the pathway. The organ-specific content of rosmarinic acid and co-expression patterns of the corresponding biosynthetic genes were much less correlated, which suggests independent organ-specific transcriptional regulation of the iridoid and phenolic pathways. Knowledge gathered within the present study can assist growers to select productive genotypes and manipulate phenology of N. nuda towards maximizing yields and facilitating its integration into pest management systems and other applications related to human health.
A method of identification and localization of tea buds based on lightweight improved YOLOV5
Authors: Wang Yuanhong , Lu Jinzhu , Wang Qi , Gao Zongmei
Published: November 2024

The low degree of intelligence and standardization of tea bud picking, as well as laborious and time-consuming manual harvesting, bring significant challenges to the sustainable development of the high-quality tea industry. There is an urgent need to investigate the critical technologies of intelligent picking robots for tea. The complexity of the model requires high hardware computing resources, which limits the deployment of the tea bud detection model in tea-picking robots. Therefore, in this study, we propose the YOLOV5M-SBSD tea bud lightweight detection model to address the above issues. The Fuding white tea bud image dataset was established by collecting Fuding white tea images; then the lightweight network ShuffleNetV2 was used to replace the YOLOV5 backbone network; the up-sampling algorithm of YOLOV5 was optimized by using CARAFE modular structure, which increases the sensory field of the network while maintaining the lightweight; then BiFPN was used to achieve more efficient multi-scale feature fusion; and the introduction of the parameter-free attention SimAm to enhance the feature extraction ability of the model while not adding extra computation. The improved model was denoted as YOLOV5M-SBSD and compared and analyzed with other mainstream target detection models. Then, the YOLOV5M-SBSD recognition model is experimented on with the tea bud dataset, and the tea buds are recognized using YOLOV5M-SBSD. The experimental results show that the recognition accuracy of tea buds is 88.7%, the recall rate is 86.9%, and the average accuracy is 93.1%, which is 0.5% higher than the original YOLOV5M algorithm’s accuracy, the average accuracy is 0.2% higher, the Size is reduced by 82.89%, and the Params, and GFlops are reduced by 83.7% and 85.6%, respectively. The improved algorithm has higher detection accuracy while reducing the amount of computation and parameters. Also, it reduces the dependence on hardware, provides a reference for deploying the tea bud target detection model in the natural environment of the tea garden, and has specific theoretical and practical significance for the identification and localization of the intelligent picking robot of tea buds.
AgoArmet and AgoC002: key effector proteins in cotton aphids host adaptation
Authors: Xue Hui , Yan Mengjie , Zhu Xiangzhen , Wang Li , Chen Lizhen , Luo Junyu , Cui Jinjie , Gao Xueke
Published: November 2024

Aphids are insects that feed on phloem and introduce effector proteins into plant cells through saliva. These effector proteins are key in regulating host plant defense and enhancing aphid host adaptation. We identified these salivary proteins in the cotton aphids genome and named them AgoArmet and AgoC002. Multiple sequence alignment, protein structure analysis, and phylogenetic analysis of these proteins with related proteins from other insects showed that AgoArmet and Armet of Aphis craccivora have high sequence identity (97%) and belong to the same evolutionary branch and that AgoC002 shares the highest sequence identity (80%) and closest evolutionary relationship with C002 of Aphis glyceins. Expression profiling of AgoArmet and AgoC002 showed that they were most highly expressed in cotton aphids during the adult-3d period. Cotton aphids transferred to zucchini leaves resulted in a significant increase in the expression of AgoArmet and AgoC002 within 48h. To investigate the functions of AgoArmet and AgoC002, we decreased the expression of these genes in cotton using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), which ultimately led to a 38% and 26% decrease in cotton aphids fecundity, respectively. Moreover, the reduction in AgoC002 expression resulted in a significant (24%) reduction in body weight. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that AgoArmet and AgoC002 are key effector proteins involved in cotton aphids feeding and host adaptation.
Neuromodulation on the ground and in the clouds: a mini review of transcranial direct current stimulation for altering performance in interactive driving and flight simulators
Authors: Sansevere Kayla S. , Ward Nate
Published: November 2024

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has emerged as a promising tool for cognitive enhancement, especially within simulated virtual environments that provide realistic yet controlled methods for studying human behavior. This mini review synthesizes current research on the application of tDCS to improve performance in interactive driving and flight simulators. The existing literature indicates that tDCS can enhance acute performance for specific tasks, such as maintaining a safe distance from another car or executing a successful plane landing. However, the effects of tDCS may be context-dependent, indicating a need for a broader range of simulated scenarios. Various factors, including participant expertise, task difficulty, and the targeted brain region, can also influence tDCS outcomes. To further strengthen the rigor of this research area, it is essential to address and minimize different forms of research bias to achieve true generalizability. This comprehensive analysis aims to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application of neurotechnology to study the relationship between the brain and behavior, ultimately providing insights into the effectiveness of tDCS in transportation settings.
Bidirectional relationship between pain and sleep disturbance in middle-aged and older adults: evidence from the China health and retirement longitudinal study
Authors: Yi Duan , Yang Mingyuan , Luo Qipeng , Li Hong , Kong Liang , Cheng Qinghao
Published: November 2024

Background

Pain is one of the most prevalent symptoms that disrupt daily functioning and has been increasing in prevalence. Sleep disturbances frequently occur in individuals with pain, making it difficult to initiate and maintain sleep. This study aims to examine the bidirectional correlation between pain and sleep quality/duration among middle-aged and older Chinese adults

Participants and setting

This study analyzed data from individuals aged 45 years and above who participated in both the 2018 and 2020 baseline surveys of China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS).

Methods

The bidirectional association between pain and sleep disturbance was assessed using multivariate logistic regression models, adjusting for various covariates.

Results

Among individuals without pain, those with unsatisfactory sleep quality were more likely to experience future pain, with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 1.74 (95% CI: 1.57 - 1.92). Conversely, among individuals with satisfactory sleep quality, those with pain were more likely to develop unsatisfactory sleep quality in the future, with an adjusted OR of 1.87 (95% CI: 1.69 - 2.07). Additionally, shorter sleep duration (<6 hours) was significantly associated with pain status (OR=1.39; 95% CI: 1.28 - 1.50). The incidence of developing short sleep duration in individuals with pain was also higher (OR=1.49; 95% CI: 1.38 - 1.61).

Conclusions

This research revealed a bidirectional relationship between pain and sleep disturbance in middle-aged and older Chinese adults, where each condition exacerbated the other. Recognizing and addressing this interconnected relationship was essential for effective management of both pain and sleep quality in this population.
Assessment of patient expectations toward health professionals and quality of life among Płock (Poland) residents aged 55 and over: a cohort study
Authors: Głowacka Mariola , Gasik Monika , Kujawa Waldemar , Cybulski Mateusz , Pluta Agnieszka
Published: November 2024

Background

The right attitude of health professionals (mainly doctors) towards patients—particularly older ones—determines patients’ level of illness acceptance and quality of life. The aim of the study was to assess patient expectations of health professionals and quality of life among residents of Płock (Poland) aged 55 and over in relation to sociodemographic variables and to examine correlations between these patients’ expectations and their quality of life.

Methods

The study included 2040 adults aged 55 and over, with 68.9% being women. A diagnostic survey was used, incorporating sociodemographic questions and two standardized scales: the Patient Request Form (PRF) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). This cohort study utilized a multi-stage sampling method, with data collected through a diagnostic survey. Data analysis incorporated ANOVA, post-hoc Fisher’s LSD tests, and Pearson’s correlation to assess relationships between variables.

Results

Statistically significant differences were observed between male and female respondents in their expectations of health professionals. Women reported higher scores than men across all three PRF scales, including emotional support (4.85 vs. 4.35, p < 0.05), test- and treatment-related information (7.41 vs. 6.81, p < 0.05), and explanation of the illness (6.89 vs. 6.47). A low but statistically significant correlation was found between age and expectations for emotional support (r = 0.162, p < 0.001), as well as test- and treatment-related information (r = 0.122, p < 0.001). Respondents with secondary/post-secondary education reported the highest expectations for explanation of the illness (mean = 7.06) and test- and treatment-related information (mean = 7.64). Meanwhile, respondents with lower education levels, especially those with primary or vocational education, reported the highest expectations for emotional support (mean = 4.93). The average QoL score measured by the SF-36 was 63.45 (SD = 17.68), indicating moderate-to-high overall QoL. The mental component summary score (mean = 65.07, SD = 19.69) was slightly higher than the physical component summary score (mean = 62.70, SD = 18.06). Age was negatively correlated with QoL scores, particularly in the physical component (r = −0.407, p < 0.001). Education level positively influenced QoL, with respondents holding tertiary education reporting the highest QoL scores.

Conclusion

What the older adults included in our study expect most from health professionals is full and ac-curate medical information, particularly information about their health. Overall, the respondents reported moderate, bordering on high, quality of life. The quality of life of the respondents and their expectations of health professionals were influenced by sociodemographic characteristics, and in particular sex, age and education level.
Combined and isolated effects of workstation ergonomics and physiotherapy in improving cervicogenic headache and work ability in office workers: a single-blinded, randomized controlled study
Authors: Nambi Gopal , Alghadier Mshari , Pakkir Mohamed Shahul Hameed , Vellaiyan Arul , Ebrahim Elturabi Elsayed , Sobeh Dena Eltabey , Kashoo Faizan Z. , Albarakati Alaa Jameel A. , Alshahrani Naif A. , Eswaramoorthi Vijayamurugan
Published: November 2024

Objective

The objective of the study is to compare and investigate the combined and individual effects of workstation ergonomics, physiotherapy and patient education in improving CgH headaches and work ability in office workers.

Methods

96 eligible CgH participants were divided into the ergonomics modifications group (EMG; n = 24), physiotherapy group (PTG; n = 24), and ergonomics modifications combined with physiotherapy group (EPG; n = 24) and education control group (CNG; n = 24), the participants received the respective treatment for 4 weeks. Primary (CgH frequency) and secondary (CgH pain intensity, CgH disability, flexion rotation test (right and left), neck disability index and work ability) scores were measured. The effects of treatment at various intervals were analyzed with a 4 × 4 linear mixed model analysis (LMM) between treatment groups and time intervals.

Results

Four weeks following training EPG group showed more significant changes in primary outcome CgH frequency; 4.6 CI 95% 3.63 to 5.56 when compare to control group. The same gradual improvement was noticed at 8 weeks 8.2 CI 95% 7.53 to 8.86 and at 6 months follow up 11.9 CI 95% 11.25 to 12.54 when compare to other groups (p = 0.001) which is statistically 52.97% improvement. Similar improvements can be seen in the secondary outcome measures such as CgH pain intensity, CgH disability, flexion rotation test (right and left), neck disability index and work ability in EPG group than the EMG, PTG, and CNG groups (p = 0.001) at 4 weeks, 8 weeks and at 6 months’ follow-up.

Conclusion

This study observed that the workstation ergonomics and physiotherapy group experienced significantly more improvements in cervicogenic headache patients.

Clinical trial registration

Identifier NCT05827185
Modeling interpersonal perception in dyadic interactions: towards robot-assisted social mediation in the real world
Authors: Javed Hifza , Wang Weinan , Usman Affan Bin , Jamali Nawid
Published: November 2024

Social mediator robots have shown potential in facilitating human interactions by improving communication, fostering relationships, providing support, and promoting inclusivity. However, for these robots to effectively shape human interactions, they must understand the intricacies of interpersonal dynamics. This necessitates models of human understanding that capture interpersonal states and the relational affect arising from interactions. Traditional affect recognition methods, primarily focus on individual affect, and may fall short in capturing interpersonal dynamics crucial for social mediation. To address this gap, we propose a multimodal, multi-perspective model of relational affect, utilizing a conversational dataset collected in uncontrolled settings. Our model extracts features from audiovisual data to capture affective behaviors indicative of relational affect. By considering the interpersonal perspectives of both interactants, our model predicts relational affect, enabling real-time understanding of evolving interpersonal dynamics. We discuss our model’s utility for social mediation applications and compare it with existing approaches, highlighting its advantages for real-world applicability. Despite the complexity of human interactions and subjective nature of affect ratings, our model demonstrates early capabilities to enable proactive intervention in negative interactions, enhancing neutral exchanges, and respecting positive dialogues. We discuss implications for real-world deployment and highlight the limitations of current work. Our work represents a step towards developing computational models of relational affect tailored for real-world social mediation, offering insights into effective mediation strategies for social mediator robots.
Driving simulation: the effects of interactivity and presentation setting
Authors: Gabes Michaela , Mühlberger Andreas
Published: November 2024

Background

Driving simulators are established tools used for different research purposes. Either head-mounted displays (HMDs) or monitors are applied. However, the extent to which the setting (HMD vs monitors) or the interactivity in driving (active behaviour as a driver or passive behaviour as a co-driver) influences the experience of presence, realism or simulator sickness is not yet entirely clear.

Objective

We aimed to compare different conditions to assess the influence of interactivity and presentation setting on the experience of presence, realism, and simulator sickness. Further, different driving performance parameters (e.g., speed perception or sign detection) were aimed to be assessed between the two settings.

Methods

Ninety participants were recruited. This was an experimental study (2 × 2 within-between-subject design) with interactivity as within-subject factor (2 levels: active vs passive) and setting as between-subject factor (2 levels: HMD vs monitors). As driving scenarios, we selected four specific driving maneuvers that we assume would affect driving behaviour differently depending on the setting. Differences in the experience of presence as well as in the development of simulator sickness were assessed using standardised questionnaires.

Results

There was no difference between the two settings regarding presence, realism or simulator sickness. Regarding interactivity, presence was significantly higher in the active compared to the passive condition. The most prominent difference between the two settings was found in the sign detection task where participants wearing an HMD performed worse.

Conclusion

The choice of interactivity appears to have a stronger effect on the experience of presence than the setting. Sign detection was worse in the HMD setting probably due to the lower display resolution. These results are relevant for the interpretation of driving simulator studies and the implementation of future studies.
Towards SDG 6: Wastewater Treatment Generates a Precious Water Resource
Authors: Al-Gashgari Bothayna , Almulhim Fatimah , Sanchez-Huerta Claudia , Hong Pei-Ying
Published: November 2024

Clean drinking water and good toilet facilities are important for our health and wellbeing. Sadly, around 2.2 billion people worldwide do not have clean drinking water or good toilet facilities. We need to work together to fix this problem. Because of this, the United Nations created a big goal called Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6. This goal involves understanding all the water sources on Earth and using them smartly. It also highlights the importance of being aware of water wasted, especially in areas with little water available, and finding solutions for water shortages. In this article, you will learn about wastewater treatment technology, in which dirty water is cleaned so we can reuse it. The goal is to create a nonstop cycle, reusing water repeatedly, similar to how nature works. We can care for people and the planet by being smart about water use.
Case report: A rare case of catastrophic Takayasu arteritis: acute ischemic stroke and anterior ischemic optic neuropathy
Authors: Olalusi Oladotun V. , Yaria Joseph , Makanjuola Akintomiwa , Akinyemi Rufus , Owolabi Mayowa , Ogunniyi Adesola
Published: November 2024

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a known complication of Takayasu arteritis (TAK); however, it is infrequently the first symptom observed. There have been no reports of concomitant AIS and anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) as an initial manifestation of TAK. We present a case of TAK causing stroke and painless vision loss in a young Nigerian woman. A 33-year-old female patient presented with abrupt onset weakness in the right extremities and painless vision loss in her left eye. Her medical history included joint pain, malaise, syncope, and dizziness, along with peripheral vascular collapse, requiring recurrent hospital admissions. She had an absent left radial pulse, reduced left carotid pulse, and unrecordable blood pressure in her left arm. There was a relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD), with fundoscopy findings indicating optic disc pallor. She had expressive aphasia, right facial paresis, and right flaccid hemiparesis. Brain computed tomography (CT) showed an infarct in the left middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory. The brain CT angiography showed diffuse enhancing aortic arch wall thickening and multiple aortic arch branch obstructive disease. The diagnosis was TAK complicated by left hemispheric infarctive stroke and left AION. She began treatment with prednisolone, azathioprine, and secondary stroke preventive care. Her vision improved to the ability to count fingers, with good functional outcomes and reduced disease activity. This case highlights the challenging diagnostic trajectory of TAK in a Nigerian female patient, featuring a unique multi-vessel affectation. Clinicians should be aware of the protean clinical presentations of TAK to reduce adverse cardiovascular complications.
Synthesizing evidence and identifying knowledge gaps in the role of swine in Japanese encephalitis virus transmission: a rapid systematic review of the literature
Authors: Horton V. , Hanthorn C. J. , Dixon A. L. , Edache S. E. , Thackrah A. , Mitzel D. , Noronha L. , Cohnstaedt L. W. , Brown V. R. , Mire C. , Cernicchiaro N.
Published: November 2024

The United States is considered a susceptible region with great potential for the introduction of the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) given the presence of competent mosquito vector species, susceptible maintenance avian hosts, large populations of susceptible domestic and feral swine, intensive travel and trade activities to and from JEV-endemic countries, similar climatic and environmental conditions to epidemic countries, and no active JEV surveillance in place. As pigs are considered JEV’s primary amplifying host, comprehensively reviewing the available body of evidence, and respective knowledge gaps, pertaining to the role of swine in JEV transmission can provide valuable guidance to decision-makers. Our objectives were to synthesize scientific literature on the role of domestic and feral swine in the transmission of JEV via a rapid systematic review and identify knowledge gaps to determine potential areas amenable for future research. A total of 3,638 records were initially identified. Data were extracted from 227 reports. Transmission of JEV occurs primarily via infected mosquitoes; however, some evidence of direct oronasal transmission between pigs has been reported. Despite pigs exhibiting a short-lived viremia, JEV has been demonstrated to persist longer in their tonsils. In sows, JEV infection may cause reproductive disorders, and although maternal antibodies can confer protection for several months under field conditions, naïve piglets can exhibit neurologic signs which may progress to wasting disease. Studies evaluating breed or sex reported no association with JEV seropositivity. Application of biosecurity practices and vector control are recommended as preventive measures against introduction and spread of JEV in swine farms. Although there is no JEV vaccine licensed for pigs in the United States, live attenuated vaccines were reported to elicit superior immunogenicity compared to inactivated vaccines used in endemic countries. Summarizing the current understanding of JEV infection in swine can guide researchers, stakeholders, and policymakers in prioritizing research efforts and developing effective countermeasures. This is particularly crucial in the event of an outbreak in the United States, where preemptive measures can help minimize the spread of the virus, safeguard both human and animal populations, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the swine production sector.
Agricultural plant jiaosu: valorization of organic wastes for sustainable agriculture
Authors: Wang Yumeng , Li Jianxun , Li Xin , Wu Shankai , Song Wenjun , Li Ping
Published: November 2024

Agricultural plant jiaosu (APJ) represents a novel and highly valuable ecological input with multiple applications. It is utilized as foliar fertilizer, drip irrigation fertilizer, bio-pesticide, and decomposing fungicide, facilitating the enrichment of local beneficial microorganisms and the efficient treatment of local organic waste. The technology offers the advantages of straightforward operation, minimal equipment requirements, and low cost. Its potential applications and research areas are extensive, with benefits including enhanced plant growth, improved crop quality, soil ecology enhancement, reduced environmental pollution, and prevention of crop pests and diseases. Despite its potential, there is a shortage of review papers on APJ in agricultural practices. This essay aims to provide an overview of the concept, categorization, preparation methods, and primary ingredients of APJ. It also discusses the impacts of APJ on agro-ecological systems and reviews current research, focusing on aspects such as raw material selection, microbial fermentation, the fermentation process, and detection technologies. However, further investigation and study are necessary due to the complex composition of APJ.
The Support Needs of Patients Requesting Medical Aid in Dying and Their Relatives: A Qualitative Study Using Semi-Structured Interviews and Written Narratives
Authors: Vissers Stijn , Gilissen Joni , Cohen Joachim , Deliens Luc , Mortier Freddy , Chambaere Kenneth , Dierickx Sigrid
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To explore the support needs that patients and relatives experience throughout their medical aid in dying (MAID) trajectories.

Methods

A qualitative study in Belgium in 2022 using 1) semi-structured interviews with and personal written narratives of patients requesting MAID and 2) semi-structured interviews with relatives of patients requesting MAID. We performed a qualitative content analysis.

Results

We included in our analysis the lived experiences of 15 patients and 21 of their relatives. We identified eight types of support needs: support for 1) maximizing daily functioning (only reported by patients), 2) making sense of the unbearable suffering (only reported by relatives), 3) managing meaningful activities, 4) navigating existential questions, 5) psycho-emotional regulation, 6) facilitating social interaction, 7) understanding the process toward MAID, 8) and handling organizational and practical matters.

Conclusion

Patients and relatives might experience multidimensional support needs throughout their MAID trajectories. Our findings suggest that they experience these trajectories more as social/existential pathways than as medical ones. A palliative care approach may be an effective way to fulfill the support needs of patients and relatives throughout their MAID trajectories.
A Simulation Study on Urea Maldistribution and Implications for NOx Reduction with a Multi-Channel Modelling Approach
Authors: Lang Junyu , Chen Kewei , Su Guoliang , Jia Haoran , Tian Wenlong , Bai Shuzhan , Sun Ke
Published: November 2024

Urea-based selective catalytic reduction (SCR) is highly efficient for NOx abatement within a diesel aftertreatment system. However, abnormally high NOx emissions in the aftertreatment system tailpipe during WHSC (World Harmonized Steady-State Cycle) evaluation have been observed due to insufficient urea decomposition or mixing, which cannot be predicted by the current uniform 1D (one-dimensional) modelling approach with different urea dosing ratios. As a result, a multi-channel model has been developed to investigate the effect of urea maldistribution on aftertreatment system performance, where the uniformity index (UI) is used as a characteristic parameter to describe urea mixing efficiency. It was found that NOx emissions at the tailpipe can be successfully described with the multi-channel model even with a relatively high UI (UI = 0.95). Additionally, an improved segment UI factor as a function of mass flow rate has also been applied for maldistribution description, wherein better correlation with the measured NOx emission can be obtained.
Creating “a Little Garden of Our Own”: Constructions of Childhood and Knowledge About Gardening in Frances Burnett’s The Secret Garden (1911) and Arthur Mee’s The Children’s Encyclopaedia (1910)
Authors: Iversen Sarah Hoem , Jaquette Brianne
Published: November 2024

Although there has been considerable previous scholarship on the garden and what it symbolises in Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden (1911), less attention has been paid to the act of gardening itself within the text. The present article reads this popular children’s novel in conjunction with Arthur Mee’s The Children’s Encyclopaedia (1910), which, while well-known in its time, does not have the classic status of The Secret Garden. Drawing on theory about the narrator–narratee relationship in children’s texts, this comparative analysis considers how knowledge about gardening is constructed and narrated in a work of fiction and a work of nonfiction, respectively, particularly in terms of how the child reader is addressed, constructed, and positioned. We investigate how constructions of childhood are linked to the concept of gardening, both mediated through books and the act of reading, and as an activity that children are invited to undertake. Both texts present knowledge about gardening as something which is constructed both through reading and studying and through practical experience. However, while in The Secret Garden, child characters co-construct knowledge more collaboratively, the adult narratee in The Children’s Encyclopaedia more strongly instructs the “young gardener”. The garden in both texts eventually becomes a way to socialise children; however, the act of gardening also allows a temporary freedom from those social roles.
Water Sorption Properties and Hydrothermal Stability of Al-Containing Metal–Organic Frameworks CAU-10 and MIL-96 Studied Using Quasi-Equilibrated Thermodesorption
Authors: Makowski Waclaw , Gryta Patrycja , Jajko-Liberka Gabriela , Cieślik-Górna Monika , Korzeniowska Aleksandra
Published: November 2024

A novel experimental technique, quasi-equilibrated temperature-programmed desorption and adsorption (QE-TPDA), was used to study the water sorption properties and hydrothermal stability of aluminum trimesate MIL-96 and aluminum isophthalate CAU-10, which have been selected due to their remarkable sorption properties. The QE-TPDA profiles of water observed for MIL-96 and CAU-10 confirmed the hydrophilic nature of these materials. Complex QE-TPDA profiles indicate that water sorption in MIL-96 follows a three-step pore filling mechanism. The shape of single desorption peaks in the QE-TPDA profiles for CAU-10 confirms that water sorption involves a reversible phase transition. Based on the QE-TPDA profiles, the water adsorption heat was determined: 45–46 kJ/mol for CAU-10 and 43–56 kJ/mol for MIL-96, in the latter case depending on the adsorption extent. Hydrothermal stability tests revealed that MIL-96 retained its stable porosity-related sorption capacity for water after hydrothermal treatment up to 290 °C. Gradual changes in the QE-TPDA profiles due to the hydrothermal treatment above 290 °C, with decreasing the high-temperature desorption peak and increasing the low-temperature one, indicate minor structural changes occurring in this material. Only after 410 °C treatment was fast degradation of MIL-96 observed. CAU-10 exhibited high and unchanged hydrothermal stability up to 400 °C.
Recent Advances in Preparation, Modification, and Application of Free-Standing and Flow-Through Anodic TiO2 Nanotube Membranes
Authors: Szaniawska-Białas Ewelina , Brudzisz Anna , Nasir Amara , Wierzbicka Ewa
Published: November 2024

Free-standing and flow-through anodic TiO2 nanotube (TNT) membranes are gaining attention due to their unique synergy of properties and morphology, making them valuable in diverse research areas such as (photo)catalysis, energy conversion, environmental purification, sensors, and the biomedical field. The well-organized TiO2 nanotubes can be efficiently and cost-effectively produced through anodizing, while further utility of this material can be achieved by creating detached and flow-through membranes. This article reviews the latest advancements in the preparation, modification, and application of free-standing and flow-through anodic TiO2 nanotubes. It offers a comprehensive discussion of the factors influencing the morphology of the oxide and the potential mechanisms behind the electrochemical formation of TiO2 nanotubes. It examines methods for detachment and opening the bottom ends to prepare free-standing and flow-through TNT membranes and posttreatment strategies tailored to different applications. The article also provides an overview of recent applications of these materials in various fields, including hydrogen production, fuel and solar cells, batteries, pollutant diffusion and degradation, biomedical applications, micromotors, and electrochromic devices.
M2BPgs-HCC: An Automated Multilectin Bead Array Indicating Aberrant Glycosylation Signatures Toward Hepatitis C Virus-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prognosis
Authors: Shimazaki Hiroko , Uojima Haruki , Yamasaki Kazumi , Obayashi Tomomi , Fuseya Sayaka , Sato Takashi , Mizokami Masashi , Kuno Atsushi
Published: November 2024

Regular monitoring of patients with a history of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is critical for the detection and management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) has been used to monitor fibrosis progression and predict HCC. However, HCC prediction based on M2BPGi has not been optimized. Here, we identified HCC risk-related glycan signatures of M2BP using a newly developed automated bead array with multiplexed lectins. Among 955 patients with HCV who achieved sustained virological response following direct-acting antiviral treatment, we compared M2BP glycosylation from sera of 42 patients diagnosed with HCC during follow-up and 43 without HCC (control) by the lectin microarray. At the HCC observation point, we found significant differences in 17 lectins. Using an automated bead array with 12 of 17 lectins, a principal component analysis (PCA) biplot differentiated HCC from control, along the PC1 axis, explaining 75.2% of variance. Based on PC1, we generated a scoring formula for an HCC-related glycosylation signature on M2BP (M2BPgs-HCC), showing good diagnostic performance for HCC (p = 2.92 × 10−8, AUC = 0.829). This automated multilectin bead array improved the ability of M2BP to detect HCC, providing a candidate test for HCC surveillance in combination with other HCC markers.
Blockchain Technology-based Used in Carnival Creative Industry
Authors: Muhsyi Abdul , Sukarno Hari , Subagio N. Ari , Khusna Khanifatul , Priyono Agus
Published: November 2024

The creative economy in Indonesia is increasingly boosting the national economy, as evidenced by the success of events like the Jember Fashion Carnaval (JFC) and Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival (BEC), but industry players still need to utilize blockchain technology in the Internet of Value era to create economic value. Annually held in Jember, East Java, the Jember Fashion Carnival showcases extravagant costumes and parade performances, while the BEC, an ethnic carnival in Banyuwangi, celebrates the cultural diversity of the region through traditional dances and costumes. The purpose of this research is to identify readiness for implementing blockchain technology, identify the strengths of EFAS in the blockchain technology-based carnival creative industry, explore the uniqueness of blockchain technology-based carnival innovative products, and formulate a blockchain technology-oriented strategic plan in the carnival creative industry. This research is exploratory in nature, utilizing analytical methods such as TRA and TAM. The research results indicate that blockchain technology can serve as a valuable alternative tool in the era of the internet, particularly for the carnival industry, which includes events such as BEC and JFC. The community's lack of understanding of blockchain technology and NFTs poses the biggest threat. The carnival industry requires risk mitigation and education to ensure successful implementation. We can carry out this effort by providing assistance to carnival industry players, enabling them to enhance their competitiveness and seize potential external opportunities. The research shows that JFC and BEC are not yet fully ready to adopt blockchain in organizing Carnival events, but there is a strong intention and positive attitude towards implementing blockchain. The successful implementation of blockchain requires technical assistance and the building of human resource capacity.
De la tierra al mercado: la lógica extractivista en la agricultura contemporánea. El caso de los ejidos de Acatzingo y Quecholac Puebla, México
Authors: Cuamatzin Hedylberto Castro , Castro Elia Rivera
Published: November 2024

La producción agrícola en México ha promovido, mediante políticas públicas, la transición de la agricultura de subsistencia hacia cultivos no tradicionales de mayor valor comercial, como las hortalizas. Este sector presenta características del agroextractivismo, al priorizar la exportación de alimentos y generar impactos ambientales negativos que ponen en riesgo su sustentabilidad y la permanencia de las comunidades rurales. Este trabajo busca profundizar en el análisis de los efectos del agroextractivismo en la horticultura de pequeña escala, contribuyendo al debate académico sobre las desigualdades inherentes a dicho modelo económico. Para ello, se realizó un estudio de caso en Acatzingo y Quecholac, Puebla, mediante entrevistas a actores locales, complementadas con bases oficiales de información productiva. El análisis revela un modelo de horticultura intensiva, marcado por la sobreexplotación de recursos como el agua y el suelo, a través del uso excesivo de agroquímicos, lo cual agrava las condiciones laborales debido a los bajos ingresos retenidos por los agricultores. Se concluye que la agroexportación configura una relación compleja entre agroextractivismo y las condiciones socioeconómicas de los pequeños agricultores.
Uma abordagem prática da química no ensino médio: contribui com a construção do conhecimento dos estudantes?
Authors: Mariano-da-Silva Samuel , Marques Tássia , Smaniotto Vanderlei , Tramontin Marco Aurélio , Tironi Siumar Pedro
Published: November 2024

Os resultados dos exames SAEB (Sistema Nacional de Avaliação da Educação Básica) e ENEM (Exame Nacional de Ensino Médio) revelam que o Ensino Médio apresenta uma baixa qualidade, em especial no município de Jataí-GO. De maneira geral, estes resultados poderiam ser melhorados se o conteúdo ministrado fosse complementado com aulas práticas, diferenciando-se, assim, do modelo convencional. O presente trabalho foi realizado no Colégio Estadual João Roberto Moreira, localizado no município de Jataí-GO, com o objetivo de avaliar e quantificar a importância de uma abordagem prática no Ensino Médio. Ele se apoiou na aplicação de um questionário antes da realização das aulas, no início do terceiro bimestre, e outro no final das aulas, no final do quarto bimestre, em quatro turmas do segundo ano. A análise estatística dos resultados detectou que houve diferença significativa entre as médias obtidas pelas turmas que não tiveram aulas práticas, comparando com as médias obtidas pelas turmas com aulas práticas. Estes resultados demonstram claramente que as aulas práticas são um valioso instrumento na assimilação dos conteúdos ministrados, bem como na formação de um aluno autônomo.
Rancangan Penyuluhan Pembuatan Pupuk Organik Cair dari Limbah Kambing di Desa Ketindan
Authors: Rahmi Ainu , Sawitri Budi , Araujo Cesario De
Published: November 2024

Desa Ketindan merupakan salah satu Desa yang ada di wilayah Kecamatan Lawang dan   mayoritas penduduknya bermata pencahariannya sebagai petani dan peternak. Salah satu jenis ternak di desa Ketindan ialah Kambing Peranakan Etawa (PE), jumlahnya sebanyak 360 ekor. Menurut Amaranti, 2012) produksi limbah padat atau feses kambing Peranakan Etawa mencapai 1,4 kg/hari dan limbah cair atau urine sebanyak 0,6-2,5 liter/hari. Jika jumlah ternak kambing sebanyak 360 ekor maka limbah feses yang dihasilkan sebabayak 504 kg/hari dan limbah urine sebanyak 720 liter/hari. Tujuan kajian ini adalah untuk mengetahui kandungan unsur hara POC dari Feses kambing dan Urine Kambing yaitu N, P, K, C-Organik dan pH. Dengan menggunakan metode kajian ialah metode kaji terap. Hasil kajian menunjukan bahwa kandungan unsur hara POC Urine kambing lebih baik dibanding POC Feses kambing yaitu ; POC urine N : 0,12, P : 0,01, K : 2,39, C-Organik : 2,63 dan pH : 6,0 dan POC dari feses kambing N : 0,06, P : 0,01, K : 0,15, C-Organik : 1,15 dan pH : 4,1.