bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On a generalization of a relatively nonexpansive mapping and best proximity pair
Authors: Chaira Karim , Seddoug Belkassem
Published: November 2023

Let A and B be two nonempty subsets of a normed space X, and let $T: A \cup B \to A \cup B$
T
:
A
∪
B
→
A
∪
B
be a cyclic (resp., noncyclic) mapping. The objective of this paper is to establish weak conditions on T that ensure its relative nonexpansiveness.

The idea is to recover the results mentioned in two papers by Matkowski (Banach J. Math. Anal. 2:237–244, 2007; J. Fixed Point Theory Appl. 24:70, 2022), by replacing the nonexpansive mapping $f: C \to C$
f
:
C
→
C
with a cyclic (resp., noncyclic) relatively nonexpansive mapping to obtain the best proximity pair. Additionally, we provide an application to a functional equation.
How social capital affects innovation, marketing and entrepreneurial orientation: the case of SMEs in Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam)
Authors: Vu Pham Minh , Van Binh Tu , Duong Linh Nguyen Khanh
Published: November 2023

Social capital, embedded in the networking relationship, is critical for firm performance. SMEs, especially in emerging economies, should effectively use their limited resource and network relationships to deal with increased uncertainties in the business environment. Accordingly, this paper investigates the effect of social capital on innovation, marketing communication expenditure, and entrepreneurial orientation (EO). The research employs a binary logistic model based on data collected from a survey of 645 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam. The survey focused on SMEs in Ho Chi Minh City, which is the biggest city in Vietnam and accounts for one-third of the country’s gross domestic product. The research found significant evidence of the benefits of social capital on innovation, marketing communication expenditure, and EO. Specifically, we found significant relationships between personal network and marketing communication expenditure, between a business network with innovation and EO, and between network range and marketing communication expenditure. This research has important implications for managers and government agents. SMEs managers should effectively use what they receive from network relationships to improve the performance of firms. The findings clarify the characteristics of networks constituting social capital. Moreover, we respond to the call for more empirical study in the emerging economy.
Vitamin D modulation of brain-gut-virome disorder caused by polystyrene nanoplastics exposure in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Teng Miaomiao , Li Yunxia , Zhao Xiaoli , White Jason C. , Zhao Lihui , Sun Jiaqi , Zhu Wentao , Wu Fengchang
Published: November 2023

Background

Many studies have investigated how nanoplastics (NPs) exposure mediates nerve and intestinal toxicity through a dysregulated brain-gut axis interaction, but there are few studies aimed at alleviating those effects. To determine whether and how vitamin D can impact that toxicity, fish were supplemented with a vitamin D-low diet and vitamin D-high diet.

Results

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) accumulated in zebrafish brain and intestine, resulting in brain blood–brain barrier basement membrane damage and the vacuolization of intestinal goblet cells and mitochondria. A high concentration of vitamin D reduced the accumulation of PS-NPs in zebrafish brain tissues by 20% and intestinal tissues by 58.8% and 52.2%, respectively, and alleviated the pathological damage induced by PS-NPs. Adequate vitamin D significantly increased the content of serotonin (5-HT) and reduced the anxiety-like behavior of zebrafish caused by PS-NPs exposure. Virus metagenome showed that PS-NPs exposure affected the composition and abundance of zebrafish intestinal viruses. Differentially expressed viruses in the vitamin D-low and vitamin D-high group affected the secretion of brain neurotransmitters in zebrafish. Virus AF191073 was negatively correlated with neurotransmitter 5-HT, whereas KT319643 was positively correlated with malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the expression of cytochrome 1a1 (cyp1a1) and cytochrome 1b1 (cyp1b1) in the intestine. This suggests that AF191073 and KT319643 may be key viruses that mediate the vitamin D reduction in neurotoxicity and immunotoxicity induced by PS-NPs.

Conclusion

Vitamin D can alleviate neurotoxicity and immunotoxicity induced by PS-NPs exposure by directionally altering the gut virome. These findings highlight the potential of vitamin D to alleviate the brain-gut-virome disorder caused by PS-NPs exposure and suggest potential therapeutic strategies to reduce the risk of NPs toxicity in aquaculture, that is, adding adequate vitamin D to diet.
Determination of biochemical and histopathological changes on testicular and epididymis tissues induced by exposure to insecticide Imidacloprid during postnatal development in rats
Authors: Sardar Amina , David Mehwish , Jahan Sarwat , Afsar Tayyaba , Ahmad Aneela , Ullah Asad , Almajwal Ali , Shafique Huma , Razak Suhail
Published: November 2023

Background

Imidacloprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide belonging to the chloronicotinyl nitroguanidine chemical family. Toxicity of IMD for mammals in scientific studies has shown high mutagenic, immunotoxic, teratogenic and neurotoxic effects. The present study was designed to assess the toxic effects of imidacloprid (IMD) on the testicular and epididymis tissues as well as testosterone levels of neonatal male rats.

Methods

Neonatal male rats from postnatal day (PND) 1 to PND 26 were consecutively administered with different concentrations of IMD (1, 5 and 10 mg/kg) subcutaneously. The effect of IMD on body and organ weight, lipid profile, histopathological alterations, oxidative stress and altered testosterone levels were assessed in the testis and plasma.

Results

The results of body weight gain showed a significant difference in group 4 (10 mg/kg) animals as compared to the control. A significant increase in total cholesterol and triglycerides, while a decrease in high-density lipoprotein concentrations was evident. Similarly, a significant decrease in concentrations of antioxidant enzymes (CAT and SOD) among all the IMD-treated groups was evident, when compared to the control. Increased production of ROS was also noticed in the highest-dose treatment group. Further, we observed that IMD-treated rats indicated histopathological changes in the testis and epididymis along with a significant decrease in the plasma testosterone concentrations among IMI-treated groups in contrast to the control. Histological examination of the testis of IMD-treated neonatal male rats also showed decreased spermatogenesis in the treated groups when compared to the control. Furthermore, an increase in lumen diameter and a decrease in epithelial height of seminiferous tubules were also observed in IMD-treated rats in comparison with the control.

Conclusion

It is concluded that sub-chronic exposure to IMD in neonatal male rats may induce histopathological changes in reproductive tissues and damage normal testicular functions via inducing oxidative stress, decrease in body weight, disturbing normal blood lipid profile and testosterone concentration. IMD exposure can induce pathophysiological effects calls for further evaluation of this widely used insecticide.
Advances in genetic abnormalities, epigenetic reprogramming, and immune landscape of intracranial germ cell tumors
Authors: Zhang Yi , Zhong Chengyi , Ke Xindi , Liu Jifang , Ye Zhang , Lu Lin , Deng Kan , Zhu Huijuan , Yao Yong
Published: November 2023

Intracranial germ cell tumors (IGCTs) are a rare subtype of central nervous system neoplasms that predominantly affect young individuals and exhibit a higher incidence in East Asia. IGCTs can be pathologically divided into two main categories: germinomas and non-germinomatous germ cell tumors (NGGCTs). Despite the scarcity of this disease, recent advancements in molecular biology techniques have facilitated the discovery of the inherent genetic and molecular characteristics of IGCTs. Somatic mutations that result in the activation of the KIT/RAS/MAPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, chromosomal instability leading to characteristic changes in chromosomal fragments (notably 12p gain), and potentially diagnostic miRNAs (such as miR-371a-3p) may provide valuable insights for the efficient diagnosis, targeted therapy, and prognosis evaluation of IGCTs. Additionally, transcriptomic and methylomic analyses have provided new perspectives on the intrinsic development of IGCTs, further elucidating their equivalence with GCTs at other sites. The evaluation of the tumor immune landscape may guide prognosis prediction and immunotherapy for IGCT patients. Nevertheless, current research still faces challenges such as the absence of basic laboratory research systems, a single source of large sample research data, and a limited overall volume of research. The incorporation of larger sample sizes, the implementation of more innovative evaluation systems, and the employment of novel experimental methods are urgently required to become the focus of future research.
The role of neuromuscular ultrasound in diagnostics of peripheral neuropathies induced by cytostatic agents or immunotherapies
Authors: Hartinger Stefanie , Hammersen Jakob , Leistner Niklas A. , Lawson McLean Anna , Risse Clemens , Senft Christian , Schütze Stefanie , Heiling Bianka , Schwab Matthias , Mäurer Irina
Published: November 2023

A relevant number of cancer patients who receive potentially neurotoxic cytostatic agents develop a chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy over time. Moreover, the increasing use of immunotherapies and targeted agents leads to a raising awareness of treatment-associated peripheral neurotoxicity, e.g., axonal and demyelinating neuropathies such as Guillain–Barré-like syndromes. To date, the differentiation of these phenomena from concurrent neurological co-morbidities or (para-)neoplastic nerve affection as well as their longitudinal monitoring remain challenging. Neuromuscular ultrasound (NMUS) is an established diagnostic tool for peripheral neuropathies. Performed by specialized neurologists, it completes clinical and neurophysiological diagnostics especially in differentiation of axonal and demyelinating neuropathies. No generally approved biomarkers of treatment-induced peripheral neurotoxicity have been established so far. NMUS might significantly extend the repertoire of diagnostic and neuromonitoring methods in this growing patient group in short term. In this article, we present enlargements of the dorsal roots both in cytostatic and in immunotherapy-induced neurotoxicity for the first time. We discuss related literature regarding new integrative applications of NMUS for cancer patients by reference to two representative case studies. Moreover, we demonstrate the integration of NMUS in a diagnostic algorithm for suspected peripheral neurotoxicity independently of a certain cancer treatment regimen emphasizing the emerging potential of NMUS for clinical routine in this interdisciplinary field and prospective clinical trials.
Mild heat treatment in vitro potentiates human adipose stem cells: delayed aging and improved quality for long term culture
Authors: Ryu Chiseon , Lee Minseo , Lee Jae Young
Published: November 2023

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have gained significant attention for diverse biomedical applications, including cell-based therapy. Hence, in vitro expansion of MSCs is critical; however, in vitro MSC culture, especially long-term culture, inevitably leads to significant loss of stemness, growth, and differentiation potential.

Method

Effects of mild heat treatment (HT) conditions (temperature, duration, and repetition) on the characteristics of adipose tissue-derived MSCs in vitro were systematically investigated. Characteristics of the MSCs subjected to the predetermined HT conditions (41 or 44ºC, 1 h, and 2X HT) were first analyzed in a single passage using various assays. In addition, the feasibility of HT for long-term MSC culture was studied. The RNA sequencing analyses were performed to elucidate the mechanism of HT effects on MSCs.

Results

A comprehensive exploration of various HT conditions revealed that specific mild HT at 41ºC or 44ºC for 1 h upregulated the expression of heat shock proteins and stemness markers and enhanced differentiation potentials. Furthermore, periodic mild HT extended the maintenance of growth rate and stemness of MSCs up to an additional 10 passages, which substantially retarded their spontaneous aging during subsequent in vitro culture. RNA sequencing analyses unveiled that HT downregulated genes associated with aging and apoptosis.

Conclusion

Our study successfully demonstrated that mild HT of MSCs has positive effects on their application in various biomedical fields, enhancing their capabilities and slowing down the aging process.

Graphical Abstract
Gender Identity and Student Perceptions of Peer Research Aptitude in CUREs and Traditional Laboratory Courses in the Biological Sciences
Authors: Esparza David , Hernández-Gaytan Aimeé A. , Olimpo Jeffrey T.
Published: November 2023

Few studies have explored potential gender inequities in STEM laboratory contexts, particularly those posited to be inclusive in nature (e.g., CUREs). Herein, we employ social network analysis and qualitative approaches to examine perceptions of peer research aptitude in CURE and traditional laboratories in biology as a function of one’s gender.
Remote sensing of ozone and other atmospheric species with a ground-based differential optical absorption spectroscopy system
Authors: Γκέρτση Φανή
Published: November 2023

Το φως είναι η βασική πηγή πληροφοριών σχετικά με τον περιβάλλοντα κόσμο για τους περισσότερους από εμάς. Βλέπουμε αντικείμενα με διαφορετική φωτεινότητα και χρώματα, ή με επιστημονικούς όρους διακρίνουμε αντικείμενα από τον τρόπο που αντανακλούν το φως σε διαφορετικά μήκη κύματος. Είναι συναρπαστικό να μάθουμε ότι τα επιστημονικά όργανα μπορούν να επεκτείνουν τις αισθήσεις μας και να μας παρέχουν πληροφορίες μέσω της ακτινοβολίας για αναγνώριση αντικειμένων που δεν είναι εύκολο να διακρίνουμε με το μάτι. Η ικανότητα να «βλέπουν» τη σύνθεση του αέρα που μας περιβάλλει είναι μια από τις πιο συναρπαστικές εφαρμογές της σύγχρονης τεχνολογίας για να μελετήσουμε την ατμόσφαιρα. Αυτή η μαγεία οδήγησε πολλές από τις εφαρμογές στη μέθοδο DOAS που παρουσιάζεται στην παρούσα εργασία και συνεχίζει να είναι το κίνητρο για πολλές από τις σημερινές εξελίξεις. Η μέθοδος DOAS είναι μια κομψή και ισχυρή αναλυτική μέθοδος για να μελετήσουμε την ατμόσφαιρα και βασίζεται στις σχετικά απλές αρχές της κλασσικής φασματοσκοπίας απορρόφησης. Στην παρούσα εργασία βρίσκει εφαρμογή στον υπολογισμό της στήλης του όζοντος από μετρήσεις της ακτινοβολίας του ήλιου μέσω του λογισμικού QDOAS. Τα όργανα που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν για τις μετρήσεις της ακτινοβολίας της παρούσας εργασίας, είναι τα επίγεια συστήματα ʺPhaethonʺ. Αυτά τα όργανα είναι χαμηλού κόστους συστήματα, τα οποία μπορούν να μετρήσουν είτε φασματική ένταση ακτινοβολίας είτε φασματική πυκνότητα ροής της άμεσης ηλιακής ακτινοβολίας. Για τον υπολογισμό της στήλης του όζοντος χρησιμοποιούνται μετρήσεις της άμεσης ακτινοβολίας του ήλιου. Για τον έλεγχο της αξιοπιστίας της στήλης του όζοντος, υπολογισμένη από τις μετρήσεις των συστημάτων Phaethon σε συνδυασμό με τη μέθοδο DOAS, τα αποτελέσματα που προκύπτουν συγκρίνονται με τις αντίστοιχες τιμές του οργάνου Brewer. Το φασματοφωτόμετρο Brewer έχει εγκριθεί ως αξιόπιστο όργανο υψηλής ποιότητας για την παρακολούθηση της ολικής στήλης του όζοντος. Τέλος, παρουσιάζονται συγκρίσεις μεταξύ της ολικής στήλης όζοντος από το επίγειο σύστημα Phaethon και διαστημικών παρατηρήσεων από τα δορυφορικά όργανα GOME2/MetopA, GOME2/MetopB, OMI/Aura, OMPS/Suomi-NPP και S5P/TROPOMI για περίπου πέντε χρόνια παρατηρήσεων.
Καλλιτεχνικές πρακτικές και πολιτισμικές αφηγήσεις στον αυτοοργανωμένο αθλητισμό
Authors: Αλιγιζάκη Ελένη-Μαρία
Published: November 2023

H παρούσα διατριβή επικεντρώνεται στις σημαίνουσες καλλιτεχνικές, πολιτισμικές και κοινωνικές πρακτικές γύρω από τον αυτοοργανωμένο αθλητισμό, με σκοπό να διαφωτίσει τη διαδικασία συγκρότησης κοινωνικών, πολιτικών αλλά και φίλαθλων ταυτοτήτων. Με ποιους τρόπους τα υποκείμενα ανα-παράγουν σύμβολα και αφηγήσεις της κυρίαρχης ή της εναλλακτικής κουλτούρας; Μέσα από ποιες αισθητικές εκφράσεις, καλλιτεχνικές αποτυπώσεις ή και τελετουργικές πρακτικές κατασκευάζονται ατομικές και συλλογικές ταυτότητες; Παράλληλα, μια σημαντική πτυχή της διατριβής, εστιάζει στα οφέλη που μπορεί να αποκομίσει η καλλιτεχνική έρευνα, όταν αξιοποιεί μεθοδολογικά στοιχεία από τις κοινωνικές επιστήμες, όπως είναι η εθνογραφία και η συμμετοχική παρατήρηση. Κατά συνέπεια, οι καλλιτεχνικές πρακτικές – παρεμβάσεις είναι σε θέση να αναδείξουν με καινοφανή τρόπο τη σύνδεση των προσωπικών εμπειριών με ευρύτερες πολιτισμικές, πολιτικές, κοινωνικές αντιλήψεις. Τέλος, η εξαγωγή συμπερασμάτων βασίζεται στην αναστοχαστική μελέτη καλλιτεχνικών έργων που έχουν αθλητικό περιεχόμενο, δίνοντας έμφαση στον διάλογο ανάμεσα στον αθλητισμό και στην τέχνη.
Cultural Adaptation and administration of public awareness questionnaire on hearing health and hearing loss in Karnataka: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Cherian Jincy Mary , P.G Bhargavi
Published: November 2023

Background: Maintaining good hearing health is crucial for effective communication and awareness of one’s surroundings. However, if not adequately addressed, various factors such as lifestyle, illness, genetic disorders, age, and leisure activities can contribute to hearing loss. This study seeks to culturally adapt, administer, and evaluate public awareness of hearing loss and hearing health in Karnataka. It is essential to prioritize hearing health and take proactive measures to prevent and treat hearing loss. Methods: The design used in this study was a cross-sectional survey design. The sampling method used in this study was Quota sampling. In total, 720 participants aged 20–60 completed a culturally adapted questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 22 questions targeting the awareness of hearing loss and hearing health, focusing on four domains: (1) Knowledge about infant hearing loss, (2) Cleaning and treatment, (3) The effect of overexposure to noise and loud sounds, (4) Diagnostic delay. Results: Approximately 70% of the correct responses were given to almost all the statements. However, specific essential Knowledge on the impact of tinnitus on hearing and the use of ear protective devices during noise exposure was lacking. Only 56% and 50.23% knew about specialized tests available for a hearing evaluation and the recommended standards on the duration of noise exposure. Conclusions: It is essential to increase public awareness of the impact of ringing sensation on a person’s daily activities. Many people need to be aware of the guidelines for reducing exposure to high-intensity noises, which underscores the need for informative initiatives on noise reduction. The audiological questionnaire used was simple, practical, and reliable, and the results showed the need for ongoing development of hearing conservation programs. To ensure continued progress, these programs should focus on hearing aid management, early detection of infant hearing loss, and noise exposure prevention.
Case Report: Digitally fabricated acrylic vaginal stent for a female with isolated vaginal agenesis
Authors: Beri Arushi , Pisulkar Sweta , Bansod Akansha , Shrivastava Akshay , Jain Ritul
Published: November 2023

A common congenital abnormality affecting the female genital system is vaginal agenesis. It may appear on its own as a developmental aberration or as a component of a larger collection of anomalies. This disorder is frequently linked to the MRKH syndrome (Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome). A new vaginal canal must be made and positioned between the bladder and the rectum in order to treat vaginal agenesis. Long-term effectiveness depends on maintaining the width and depth of the surgically created vaginal region and avoiding restriction. In this article, the surgical management of nonsyndromic vaginal agenesis in a 42-year-old lady is described. Digital fabrication methods were used to create a personalised acrylic vaginal stent. This customised vaginal stent helped gain patency of vaginal canal. These stents can be used to prevent neovaginal stricture and shrinking as well as to preserve the width and depth of the vaginal canal.
El rol actual de la Organización Mundial del Comercio en la gobernanza multilateral del comercio: crisis y continuidades
Authors: Peixoto Batista Juliana , Maquieira Alonzo Joaquin
Published: November 2023

El objetivo es hacer un análisis sistémico de la Organización Mundial del Comercio (OMC) en medio de la crisis por la que esta atraviesa. Se sostiene que la OMC, si bien pasa por una crisis profunda en términos reales y simbólicos, sigue cumpliendo un rol importante en la crecientemente compleja gobernanza multilateral. Para eso, se analizan las tres funciones principales que cumple en la gobernanza multilateral del comercio: ser un foro de negociaciones comerciales, brindar un sistema eficiente de solución de disputas y ser una arena de discusión y revisión de estándares mínimos de política comercial. El artículo está dividido en tres partes. Primero, se analizan las propuestas de reforma de la OMC y los temas en los cuales han avanzado en años recientes. Segundo, el desempeño del sistema de solución de controversias y en conjunto con la revisión del debate sobre su reforma. Tercero, el desempeño del mecanismo de examen de políticas comerciales. La metodología es cualitativa, con revisión de la literatura especializada y análisis de fuentes primarias (documentos oficiales de la OMC), comunicados de países miembro, declaraciones conjuntas, informes de órganos y comisiones, además de recolección y análisis de datos disponibles en la página web de la organización.
How digital treatment solutions are supporting children and young people's mental health
Authors: McGlinchey Helen
Published: November 2023

In 2019, the mental health charity Northpoint partnered with SilverCloud by Amwell to co-develop new digital therapy programmes to alleviate anxiety and low mood in young people and their families. The programmes are evidence-based digital mental health programmes based on cognitive behavioural therapy. The programmes launched at a time when children and young people were returning to school post-pandemic and facing huge uncertainty. The programmes are now being rolled out nationally to NHS and education services. Explaining the partnership journey and outlining how digital treatment programmes have developed within Northpoint's schools therapy services, this article highlights the benefits of having a digital offer as an integrated part of its service model while considering how technology solutions can supplement mental healthcare provision for children and young people.
Emerging updates on tracking new landscapes in nanotechnology for the diagnosis and ovarian cancer therapy
Authors:   Department of Biotechnology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women’s University), Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India., Ramani Seethammagari Mamatha , Josthna Penchalaneni ,   Department of Biotechnology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women’s University), Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India., Padma Kanchi Ravi ,   Department of Biotechnology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women’s University), Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Published: November 2023

The sixth most common recurrent malignancy worldwide is ovarian cancer in women, and it causes more women to die compared to any other issue impacting the female reproductive system. Ovarian cancer has several histological subgroups differing in clinical traits, risk factors, cell sources, molecular makeups, and treatment possibilities. There is no effective screening procedure, and it is typically discovered at a late stage. Newly found cancer is currently treated with platinum-based chemotherapy and cytoreductive surgery. Due to its recurrence and late diagnosis, ovarian cancer has the highest fatality rates in contrast to all gynecological cancers. The discipline of medical nanotechnology has made great strides in recent years in resolving issues and enhancing the detection and treatment of various illnesses, including cancer. However, most studies and recent reviews on nanotechnology are devoted to how it might be utilized to treat other tumors or disorders. This review’s main objective was the precise diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer using nanoscale drug delivery systems. Various nanocarrier systems, such as dendrimers, nanoparticles, liposomes, nanocapsules, and nano micelles, have been discussed. Additionally, we explore how the potency of the combination of immunotherapy and nanotechnology may help to overcome the current therapeutic constraints connected with each application and reveal a novel paradigm in cancer therapy. The unique nanotherapeutic approaches that have demonstrated promising outcomes in preclinical in vivo research are highlighted, along with new nanoformulations actively advancing into clinical trials. Additionally, the possible use of nanomaterials in diagnostic imaging methods and the capacity to use nanotechnology for early ovarian cancer detection are also highlighted.
Integrated nutrient management enhances the growth efficiency and productivity of Tagetes erecta cv. Sirakole
Authors: MOHANTY ANITA , ACHARYA SRINIVAS , SWAIN BARSHA BHUSHAN , MISHRA SMRUTIREKHA , MOHAPATRA DEBASISH , MOHAPATRA PRADIPTA KUMAR
Published: November 2023

Abstract. Mohanty A, Acharya S, Swain BB, Mishra S, Mohapatra D, Mohapatra PK. 2023. Integrated nutrient management enhances the growth efficiency and productivity of Tagetes erecta cv. Sirakole. Asian J Agric 7: 88-97. The African marigold (Tagetes erecta L. cv. Sirakole) is a highly significant plant because it can be cultivated year-round, produce large blooms, have a long post-harvest life, and compactness. To determine the optimal fertilizer and manure combination, we conducted a study to explore the plant's morphological, yield, and physiological characteristics under different combinations of fertilizers, Vermicompost (VC), Poultry Manure (PM), and biofertilizer (Azospirillium + phosphate solubilizing bacteria). The most successful combination for promoting vigorous growth, dense canopy, prolific branching, longer flowering duration, large-sized flowers, and higher yield was achieved with 50% Recommended Dose of Nitrogen and Phosphorus (RDNP) + VC equivalent to 25% Recommended Dose of Nitrogen (RDN) + PM equivalent to 25% RDN + biofertilizers (@400 gha-1). Additionally, plants in this combination exhibited higher chlorophyll content (Chl) and photosynthesis (PN) than those in plots with RDNP alone or other amendments. While photosynthetic fluorescence yield jP0) and energy dissipation (jD0) did not vary, plots with RDNP had lower excitation (?0) and electron movement (jE0), as well as lower photosynthesis performance indices (PIs), compared to the nutrient combinations. Additionally, the organically amended plots showed higher microbial density and soil enzyme activities than those with RDNP alone. Our findings indicate that using a combination of fertilizer, manure, and biofertilizers is the most effective way to improve the photosynthetic capacity and flower yield of T. erecta cv. Sirakole.
ENSINO DE HISTÓRIA:
Authors: Nogalha de Lima Jades Daniel , Kocchann Andréa
Published: November 2023

O presente artigo propõe uma análise do ensino de História diante do negacionismo e do excesso de informação que influencia o conhecimento científico na contemporaneidade. Assim, defende a aplicação de letramentos no ensino de História baseando-se nas múltiplas formas de ensinar e aprender na atualidade, propondo uma discussão ampla e próxima a Teoria e a Didática da História como arma para a desinformação. Destacando-se a problemática: “como se desenvolvem os negacionismos voltados para o ensino de História na sociedade em tempos de “infoxicação”, “infodemia” e “infocalipse”? Elenca-se o objetivo geral que é o de discutir os negacionismos voltados para o ensino de História na sociedade em tempos de “infoxicação”, “infodemia” e “infocalipse”. A justificativa pela escolha dessa temática se alicerça pelo fato das ameaças advindas do pensamento negacionista frente à abundância de informações na contemporaneidade. A discussão teórica baseou-se em autores como Nikitiuk (2012) sobre a prática de ensino de História, Burke (1991) na discussão sobre “Nova História”, Rüsen (1992, 2001, 2015) sobre ensino de História, Rocha (2020) e Lee (2012; 2016) a respeito de letramento histórico. Tal temática é parte da pesquisa em andamento de dissertação de mestrado, apresentada ao grupo GEFOPI – Grupo de Estudos em Formação de Professores e Interdisciplinaridade, como atividade acadêmica com o propósito de promover e fomentar reflexões a respeito da didática e das práticas de ensino do Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Gestão, Educação e Tecnologias – UEG.
A CRÍTICA DE ADORNO À APROPRIAÇÃO DO TEMPO LIVRE PELA INDÚSTRIA CULTURAL
Authors: Pereira José Aparecido , Silva Paulo Henrique Ramires da
Published: November 2023

O presente artigo realiza uma abordagem sobre a crítica de Theodor w. Adorno à apropriação do tempo livre pela indústria cultural. O objetivo principal que norteou a pesquisa foi o desenvolvimento de uma reflexão sobre o tempo livre como apêndice do trabalho e como a indústria cultural se apropria dele. O texto está dividido em três partes. Na primeira, será desenvolvida uma abordagem sobre em quais bases o pensamento de adorno foi gestado e de que modo ele chegou ao conceito de indústria cultural em parceria com Horkheimer na Escola de Frankfurt. Em seguida, tratar-se-á do conceito de indústria cultural e sua relação com o capitalismo. Na terceira e última parte do artigo estabelece o modo como o tempo livre está vinculado à indústria cultural, especificando sua ação na televisão e no rádio/música. A discussão foi conduzida pela pesquisa qualitativa orientada pela leitura, análise, reflexão e interpretação dos textos relacionados à problemática do artigo.
Metacarpal Joint Arthroplasty in the Acute Setting: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-LUC, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200 Brussels, Belgium,, Gorani Amel , Ruijs Aleid C J ,   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Centre Hospitalier de Wallonie Picarde, 7500 Tournai, Belgium.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Traumatic bone loss at the metacarpal phalangeal joint level can be a challenging clinical situation. Not many cases have been described in the literature for this specific articulation. Case Report: Our patient presented with a work-related accident of his hand with loss of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the index finger. After temporary external fixation and wound closure, a prosthetic joint arthroplasty was chosen to allow a reconstruction of his lost joint. Conclusion: After traumatic articular bone destruction in the hand, there are several possibilities to reflect on. Taking into consideration the patient’s characteristics and the degree of bone loss, implanting a prosthesis can be a safe option with acceptable results. Keywords: Metacarpophalangeal joint, bone loss, prosthesis, MCPJ arthroplasty.
Despenalización de la eutanasia en Bélgica: un perfil de veinte años e implicaciones deontológicas
Authors: Ayala Ricardo , Collado Claudia
Published: November 2023

El artículo pone en contexto las estadísticas de veinte años desde la despenalización de la eutanasia en Bélgica. En esta reconstrucción se analizan los aspectos centrales de la política, tales como su carácter democrático y la protección de la objeción de conciencia. A menudo discutido de forma aislada, este artículo plantea el fin de vida voluntario como parte de un programa paliativo que, a su vez, integra una visión más amplia, como se refleja en el paquete de regulaciones del año 2002. Además de delinear ciertas consecuencias deontológicas, entre otras, el artículo subraya el carácter excepcional de la eutanasia, limitándose a casos debidamente calificados de sufrimiento físico o psíquico, pero que de manera significativa reivindica el respecto de la autonomía de la persona. Con todo, el artículo invita a considerar códigos morales múltiples de cara a uno de los pocos eventos de los que tenemos certeza: la muerte.
Gusti (Gustavo Ariel Rosemffet Abramovich): Illustrator–Argentina
Authors: Gusti Gusti
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "The white page is my life and I decide how I want to live it. I am making progress, but there is still a long way to go."
Julia Gukova: Illustrator–Russia
Authors: Gukova Julia
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "I watch a lot. I try to look carefully at everything I'm attracted to—interesting pictures, photographs—trying to grasp what I need in my work. I only care about the text of the work itself—I immerse myself in it, I try to imagine, construct its world. By the way, the less text, the better—this gives more room for imagination."
Elena Odriozola: Illustrator–Spain
Authors: Odriozola Elena
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "I want to express feelings and emotions, sadness and joy, all with the absolute minimum. With a look, with gestures, with postures … That's the most important thing."
Measuring extinction with digital holography: noisy holograms
Authors: Berg Matthew J. , Aleau Killian , Ceolato Romain
Published: November 2023

Digital in-line holography is a versatile method to obtain lens-less images of small particles, such as aerosol particles, ranging from several to over one hundred microns in size. It has been shown theoretically, and verified by measurement, that a particle’s extinction cross section can also be obtained from a digital hologram. The process involves a straightforward integration, but if noise is present it fails to give accurate results. Here we present a method to reduce the noise in measured holograms of single particles for the purpose of rendering the cross-section estimation more effective. The method involves masking the complex-valued particle image-amplitude obtained from a noisy hologram followed by a Fresnel transformation to generate a new noise-reduced hologram. Examples are given at two wavelengths, 440 nm and 1040 nm, where the cross section is obtained for a micro-sphere particle and several non-spherical particles approximately 50 microns in size.
Ultrahigh-Q and angle-robust chiroptical resonances beyond BIC splitting
Authors: Liu Liangliang , Luo Haoqi , Xi Zheng , Lu Yonghua , Wang Pei
Published: November 2023

Chiroptical resonances inspired by bound states in the continuum (BICs) open a new, to the best of our knowledge, avenue to enhance chiral light–matter interaction. Symmetry breaking is the widely employed way, wherein the circularly polarized states (CPSs) arise from BIC splitting. Here, we utilize a far-field interference mechanism to create ultrahigh-Q (typically, 2.36 × 106) chiroptical resonance beyond BIC splitting, in which CPSs coexist with BICs in the momentum space. Accordingly, the spin-selective absorption with ultranarrow linewidth is achieved at the CPS points, which can be regulated by monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs). In addition, the chiral response of our scheme exhibits the incident-direction robustness and flexible tunability. Our findings may facilitate potential applications in light manipulation, spin–valley interaction, and chiral sensing.
Bright luminescence from nontoxic all-inorganic low-dimensional cesium halide
Authors: Fan Ranran , Qiao Junpeng , Xu Jiaxin , Feng Sujuan , Liu Guangqiang
Published: November 2023

Due to the superiority of low cost, easy manufacture, and tunable light emission owing to the diversity of compositions and dimensionalities, the metal halides have appeared as a promising class of semiconductors. Nevertheless, the toxicity problem along with inherent instability of Pb-based metal halides greatly limits their large-scale applications. Based on this situation, it is necessary to develop eco-friendly materials, which could simultaneously maintain the excellent optoelectronic properties of lead materials. In this Letter, the one-dimensional Cu + -alloyed Cs2AgI3 has been successfully synthesized. An intense blue emission located at 469 nm with a large Stokes shift was observed. Density functional theory calculation indicated that the Cu+ ions could effectively modulate the density of state population, which was the key factor drastically boosting the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY). This kind of highly efficient metal halide may overcome the bottlenecks of toxicity and poor efficiency issues of blue emission and will have a promising prospect in the optoelectronic fields.
Understanding Viewpoint Changes in Peripheral Prisms for Field Expansion by Virtual Reality Simulation
Authors: Doyon Jonathan , Hwang Alex , Jung Jae-Hyun
Published: November 2023

Prism field expansion is a common treatment for patients with peripheral field loss, shifting images from the blind field into the seeing field. The shifted image originates from a new viewpoint translated and rotated from the original viewpoint by the prism. To understand such viewpoint changes, we simulated two field expansion methods in virtual reality: 1) angular (i.e., rotational) field expansion and 2) linear field expansion via image crop-and-shift. Changes to object locations, sizes, and optic flow patterns by those methods were demonstrated and analyzed in both static and dynamic conditions, which may affect navigation with such field expansion devices.
Functional and evolutionary analysis of host Synaptogyrin-2 in porcine circovirus type 2 susceptibility
Authors: Walker Lianna R. , Vu Hiep L. , Montooth Kristi L. , Ciobanu Daniel C.
Published: November 2023

Mammalian evolution has been influenced by viruses for millions of years, leaving signatures of adaptive evolution within genes encoding for viral interacting proteins. Synaptogyrin-2 (SYNGR2) is a transmembrane protein implicated in promoting bacterial and viral infections. A genome-wide association study of pigs experimentally infected with porcine circovirus type 2b (PCV2b) uncovered a missense mutation (SYNGR2 p.Arg63Cys) associated with viral load. In this study, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing of the porcine kidney 15 (PK15, wtSYNGR2+p.63Arg) cell line generated clones homozygous for the favorable SYNGR2 p.63Cys allele (emSYNGR2+p.63Cys). Infection of edited clones resulted in decreased PCV2 replication compared to wildtype PK15 (P<0.05), with consistent effects across genetically distinct PCV2b and PCV2d isolates. Sequence analyses of wild and domestic pigs (n>700) revealed the favorable SYNGR2 p.63Cys allele is unique to domestic pigs and more predominant in European than Asian breeds. A haplotype defined by the SYNGR2 p.63Cys allele was likely derived from an ancestral haplotype nearly fixed within European (0.977) but absent from Asian wild boar. We hypothesize that the SYNGR2 p.63Cys allele arose post-domestication in ancestral European swine. Decreased genetic diversity in homozygotes for the SYNGR2 p.63Cys allele compared to SYNGR2 p.63Arg, corroborates a rapid increase in frequency of SYGNR2 p.63Cys via positive selection. Signatures of adaptive evolution across mammalian species were also identified within SYNGR2 intraluminal loop domains, coinciding with the location of SYNGR2 p.Arg63Cys. Therefore, SYNGR2 may reflect a novel component of the host-virus evolutionary arms race across mammals with SYNGR2 p.Arg63Cys representing a species-specific example of putative adaptive evolution.
An evaluation of Mp1p antigen screening for talaromycosis in HIV-infected antiretroviral therapy-naïve population in Guangdong, China
Authors: Gong Dandan , Lin Weiyin , Zhang Huihua , Ou Xu , Li Liya , Guo Pengle , He Yaozu , Liu Cong , Cai Weiping , Tang Xiaoping , Li Linghua
Published: November 2023

Background

Talaromycosis is one of the most common opportunistic infections in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients. However, few researches have explored the prevalence in Southern China and fully assessed the value of the Mp1p antigen screening for the diagnosis of talaromycosis.

Methodology/Principal findings

We performed a cross-sectional study of HIV-infected antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve adult patients who were seen in 2018 at Guangzhou Eighth People’s Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University. Serum samples collected from all the 784 enrolled patients were tested for Mp1p antigen using double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A culture of pathogen was conducted in 350 clinically suspected patients to confirm talaromycosis. The overall prevalence of talaromycosis based on the Mp1p antigen detection was 11.4% (89/784) and peaked at 32.2% (75/233) in patients with CD4+ ≤50 Nr/μl. Logistic regression analysis found Mp1p antigen positive rate decreased with the increase in CD4+ counts (OR 0.982, 95% CI 0.977–0.987, P<0.01). The optimal cut-off point of the CD4+ count was 50 Nr/μl or less. Among the 350 patients received both fungal culture and Mp1p antigen detection, 95/350 (27.1%) patients were culture-positive for a Talaromyces marneffei, 75/350 (21.4%) patients were Mp1p antigen positive. The Mp1p antigen assay showed a good agreement to the culture of pathogen, and the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and kappa value was 71.6% (68/95), 97.3% (248/255), 90.7% (68/75), 90.2% (248/275), and 0.737, respectively. The screening accuracy of the Mp1p antigen assay in patients with CD4+ counts of ≤50 Nr/μl was superior to that in those with higher CD4+ counts.

Conclusions/Significance

Mp1p antigen screening can be an effective tool for more efficient diagnosis of Talaromycosis, especially in HIV/AIDS patients with low CD4+ counts. Future validation studies are needed.
The impact of technical efficiency on firms’ value: The case of the halal food and beverage industry in selected countries
Authors: Rusmita Sylva Alif , Zulaikha Siti , Mazlan Nur Syazwani , Mohd Dali Nuradli Ridzwan Shah Bin , Cahyono Eko Fajar , Ramadhani Indria
Published: November 2023

The market for the halal food and beverage industry sector has experienced rapid growth in recent years, which indicate excellent investment opportunities. This paper examine the effect of Technical Efficiency (TE) on firm value in 5 selected influential countries in halal food and beverage sector based on Global Islamic Economy Report 2020. Two steps estimation was used to run the data, using the Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA) model to determine the company’s TE and panel data to test the effect of TE through firm value. The results show that Indonesia has the highest score for TE (62%), followed by Pakistan (59%), South Africa (57%), Malaysia (55%), and Singapore (52%), which means, in general, there is inefficiency in allocating resources over 38% up to 48% and needs to be improved by halal food and beverage companies in. Regarding panel data, all countries sample except Pakistan highlight that TE significantly affect company value. It indicates that the crucial part of managing efficiency can be a sign in stock market performance. The result shows that company managers should set efficiency strategies to their business process for creating sustainability and increase their value in the capital market. As for investors, this TE can be used as an indicator before choosing company stocks; if the company is efficient, then it is worthy of being one of the portfolio assets. Form the government side, the finding can help them to set appropriate policy setting to boost halal food and beverages industry such as giving subsidy or incentive to increase the efficiency ability of halal food and beverage companies and identify the industry’s strength by comparing the result of TE between 5 countries.
The role of direct contact in forming peace-oriented international relations of a divided country: Focusing on the division of the Korean Peninsula
Authors: Shin Hye Cho , Lee Gi-Eun , Choi Seo-Yun , Lee Jang-Han
Published: November 2023

Background

The division of the Korean peninsula involved many neighbouring countries in the Korean War. The relations with those countries have since been reorganised due to active exchange. This study examined how the quantity and quality of contact with traditional alliance (US and Japan) and strategic partner (China and Russia) countries affected their national images.

Methods

To this end, this study analyzed the relation with the national image by measuring the quantity and quality of contact of an individual with each country. The quantity of contact included an evaluation of the individual’s subjective amount of contact, contact path, and contact status, and the quality of contact was measured as an evaluation for the pleasure, competitiveness, intimacy, spontaneity, and necessity when contacting each country’s culture. A total of 387 participants were divided into two groups based on the presence of direct contact and the quantity and quality of their contact and national images were examined. The participants were followed by a completion of the self-questionnaires including the Culture Experience Questionnaire, National Image Questionnaire, and demographic information questionnaire.

Results

The results of this study are as follow: first, regardless of the type of country, the national image was highly correlated with the degree of subjective contact evaluated by individuals, but there was a weak tendency with contact quality. Second, there was no significant interaction between the country type and contact status for national image, however, different national images for each country were detected. In other word, for contact quantity, contact groups showed more positive national images compared to non-contact groups in Russia, but not Japan, China, and the US. For contact quality, the positive contact experience group showed more positive national images compared to the negative contact experience group, but only in traditional alliance countries.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of implementing different strategies for countries to maintain peaceful international relations.