bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling triple vulnerability among Mozambican female sex workers—Stigma, physical violence and sexual violence
Authors: Luiz Naira , Muleia Rachid , Abecasis Ana , Banze Auria , Langa Denise , Semá Baltazar Cynthia
Published: February 2025

Background

In the shadows of Mozambique’s urban landscape, an invisible struggle unfolds among its most vulnerable: Female Sex Workers (FSWSs). FSWs bear a disproportionate burden of violence as a consequence of the stigma surrounding their profession, as both stigma and violence create significant barriers to the progress of HIV elimination within this group by limiting their access to prevention and treatment services, discourages them from seeking help, while violence itself increases vulnerability to HIV. This study examines the patterns of stigma, physical and sexual violence, and HIV among FSWs.

Methodology

A secondary analysis was performed using data from a cross-sectional Bio-Behavioral Survey (BBS) conducted among FSW ≥15 and old, implemented between 2019–2020 in five urban areas. Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) was utilized to recruit participants. Aggregate weighted estimates were calculated for self-reported stigma, physical, and sexual violence. Associations between variables were assessed using chi-squared tests, and multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify factors associated with stigma, physical violence, and sexual violence.

Results

Among 2,567 FSWs surveyed, 24.7% reported experiencing stigma, while 52.3% and 37.9% reported physical and sexual violence, respectively, in the six months preceding the survey. The likelihood of experiencing stigma was over six times higher for FSWs who engaged with more than 7 clients (AOR = 6.1; p <0.001). Drug use was associated with a twofold increase in the odds of physical violence (AOR = 2.3; p <0.001) and a nearly threefold increase in the odds of sexual violence (AOR = 2.7; p <0.001). HIV-positive FSWs were at increased risk for both physical violence (AOR = 1.2; p = 0.006) and sexual violence (AOR = 1.2; p = 0.031).

Conclusion

This study highlights the substantial burden of stigma and violence among FSWs in Mozambique’s urban areas. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to reduce stigma, prevent violence, and protect the rights of FSWs. Addressing these issues is essential for achieving the goals of HIV prevention and treatment in this vulnerable population.
Perceptions and experiences of young adults and their healthcare team of the D1 Now type 1 diabetes intervention
Authors: McCarthy Elizabeth M. , Dinneen Sean F. , Byrne Molly , Morrissey Eimear C. , Casey Dympna
Published: February 2025

Background

Young adults (18–25 years) with type 1 diabetes can have high blood glucose levels, increasing their risk of complications. The D1 Now intervention aimed to improve outcomes, using a young adult-centred approach, comprising three components: an interactive messaging system, agenda setting tool, and support worker. A pilot randomised controlled trial was conducted to assess acceptability and feasibility of this novel intervention.

Aim

To explore perceptions and experiences of young adults and healthcare staff participating in the intervention arms of the D1 Now pilot randomised controlled trial.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative approach using semi structured interviews was used to collect data between May 2020, and January 2021 from sixteen young adults and ten healthcare staff Interviews were conducted online using MS Teams. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. A patient and public involvement approach was used with the D1 Now Young Adult Panel deployed from the outset to design and contribute to the study. Both written consent in advance and verbal consent was given by all participants for the online interviews that were video and audio recorded according to individual participant preference.

Results

Themes were developed separately for young adult and healthcare staff participants. Two themes were developed from the young adult data, 1) ‘empowerment’ and 2) ‘perceptions and experiences of the intervention’. One theme was developed from the healthcare staff data, ‘perceptions and experiences of delivering the intervention’. All participants highlighted that the agenda setting tool and the support worker empowered the young adults as they could focus the consultation process on what mattered most to them. However, the interactive messaging system was perceived as unsuitable by many mainly because the technology was outdated. Overall, the perceived impact of participating in the study was positive.

Conclusions

Understanding participants perceptions and experiences of taking part in the D1 Now intervention is crucial. The lessons learnt can be used to further refine and develop the intervention with a view to measuring its effectiveness, in a future definitive trial.
Identification of novel proteins associated with intelligence by integrating genome-wide association data and human brain proteomics
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Zhu Yousong , Zhang Junlong , He Wenbin , Han Cheng
Published: February 2025

While genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified genetic variants associated with intelligence, their biological mechanisms remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to bridge this gap by integrating intelligence GWAS data with human brain proteomics and transcriptomics. We conducted proteome-wide (PWAS) and transcriptome-wide (TWAS) association studies, along with enrichment and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analyses. PWAS identified 44 genes in the human brain proteome that influence intelligence through protein abundance regulation (FDR P <  0.05). Causal analysis revealed 36 genes, including GPX1, involved in the cis-regulation of protein abundance (P <  0.05). In independent PWAS analyses, 17 genes were validated, and 10 showed a positive correlation with intelligence (P <  0.05). TWAS revealed significant SNP-based heritability for mRNA in 28 proteins, and cis-regulation of mRNA levels for 20 genes was nominally associated with intelligence (FDR P <  0.05). This study identifies key genes that bridge genetic variants and protein-level mechanisms of intelligence, providing novel insights into its biological pathways and potential therapeutic targets.
Food systems for personalized replacement technologies for health preservation
Authors:   South Ural State University, Ruskina Alena , Astaeva Alena , Potoroko Irina , Shtrakhova Anna ,   South Ural State University,   South Ural State University,   South Ural State University
Published: February 2025

The scientific community has established a correlation between the quality of nutri-tion and depression that occurs against the background of the development of NCDs (in particular, type 2 diabetes). For the majority of the population, the identified problem is due to the state of the environment, existing non-communicable diseases (NCDs), provoking changes in the subject’s eating behavior patterns, and, as a consequence, disruption of the body’s metabolic processes. In the psychological aspect, the PP style reflects the needs and emotional state of a person. Therefore, one of the most important tasks of health psychology is to discover the psychological causes and mechanisms that determine human behavior, with the help of which it would be possible to control his behavior in the field of health and teach him to independently control his behavior. Our findings offer a theoretical and experimental framework for future research on factors motivating dietary behavior change. To determine the main goal of the project, a study was used to study the nutritional priorities of the young population and the possibility of the presence of the most commonly used “snack” products. In this regard, potato snacks became the target; new prebiotic components were used for such products: sonochemically modified high-amylose starches containing the RS2 type fraction. Experimental samples were developed and studied that had a more pronounced crunchy structure, which was probably due to the presence of resistant starch in the RS type. Evaluation data from the process of controlled digestion of starch fractions can be used as an evidence base for usefulness. Consequently, the possibility of creating food systems for personalized replacement technologies for maintaining health is quite feasible.
Thermal Investigation of Heat Transfer Enhancement in a Rectangular Duct Provided with Different Configurations of Semi-Circular Ribs
Authors: Thikane Swapnil , Mashyal Suresh
Published: February 2025

Past research studies have explored the use of continuous ribs (with square or rectangular cross-sections) to improve the thermal efficiency of ducts or channels. Some researchers have also investigated the impact of different rib shapes, such as triangular, semi-circular, trapezoidal, and pentagonal, on thermal performance. However, there has been limited research focusing on how various semi-circular rib patterns influence the thermal behavior of rectangular ducts. This study investigates the effects of different semi-circular rib designs on the thermal efficiency and friction factor of a rectangular duct. Six distinct rib configurations, ranging from continuous to hybrid patterns, were applied to the bottom wall of the test section. The thermo-hydraulic performance (η) of the ribbed ducts was measured and compared to that of plain ducts. Experimental results revealed that the ratio of Nusselt numbers ranged from 1.44 to 2.57. The ratio of the friction factor ranged from 2.20 to 4.51. The thermal enhancement ratios for semi-circular rib designs ranged from 1.08 to 1.69, relative to a plain duct. The hybrid rib configuration surpassed all other rib designs, delivering the most significant improvement in thermal performance. This was primarily due to enhanced flow distribution and reduced thermal resistance. The superior performance of the hybrid ribs resulted from their innovative design, which combines ribs truncated at both ends with ribs truncated at the center, creating a unique hybrid rib arrangement.  from the combined rib design. Across the specified range of Reynolds numbers, the hybrid rib duct demonstrated a thermal performance increase of 1.47 to 1.69 times compared to the plain duct.
Optimization of 3D Printing Parameters for Enhanced PLA Tensile Strength Using the Taguchi Method
Authors: Khalifah Mahameru Rolland Darin , Faizin Ahmad Khairul , Lamura M. Danny Pratama , Lestari Wahyu Dwi
Published: February 2025

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) has significantly advanced in the additive manufacturing of complex geometrical and customized parts, particularly for thermoplastics like Polylactic Acid (PLA). The present study aimed to optimize FDM process parameters to improve the tensile strength of 3D-printed PLA, a crucial mechanical property for various applications. The Taguchi method was employed to systematically and effectively analyze the effects of six key process parameters: nozzle temperature, printing speed, layer thickness, infill density, infill pattern, and orientation. The analysis revealed that among these parameters, only nozzle temperature and infill density had a significant impact on tensile strength, as demonstrated by the variance analysis. By optimizing these critical parameters, the tensile strength of the printed PLA parts was improved from the previously reported 35 MPa to 40 MPa, representing a notable enhancement. Additionally, a linear regression-based empirical model was developed, achieving an R-squared value of 89.2%, enabling accurate prediction of tensile strength for given process parameter values. These findings provide a vital foundation for enhancing the mechanical performance of FDM-printed PLA components. They are particularly relevant for applications across industries requiring high-strength materials, further solidifying the potential of FDM in advanced manufacturing scenarios.
Waste Assessment Model for Hot Coil Spring Production Using Lean Approach
Authors: Hasan Rabiatul Syuhada , Osman Zahid Muhammed Nafis
Published: February 2025

This study develops and validates customized waste assessment methods for the hot coiling spring manufacturing process. This is due to the high demand for springs in the automotive industry and the potential for a significant impact on the overall supply chain of the component. This study uses a case study approach with quantitative methods to assess waste in a hot coiling production line. Data were collected through direct observation (Genba) and documentation, with key waste types identified using a wastage check sheet. Microsoft Excel and VBA macros were used for analysis, enabling the ranking and prioritization of waste based on cost, cycle time and production efficiency. The assessment method successfully identifies and ranks various types of waste in terms of cycle time and cost analysis. Notably, the bar loading process exhibited a significant inefficiency, with an actual cycle time exceeding 3 times higher than the ideal time of 3 seconds. Similarly, the heating process had a 30% deviation from its ideal cycle time, indicating room for optimization. The cost analysis identifies the pre-treatment stage as a major contributor to high expenses, with a high actual cost rate of RM4.29 per piece, which is over 13 times higher than the average actual cost rate of RM0.33 across other processes. The painting process incurs the highest reject cost, which is 102% higher than the average reject cost. Rework analysis highlights the Pre-Treatment stage with a rework cost of 41% above the overall average reject cost. The findings offer critical insights for prioritizing improvements to optimize operations, minimize delays, and reduce production costs, particularly by addressing inefficiencies in the Pre-Treatment process, painting process, and bar loading. Simplifying the method and developing an automated waste assessment can prioritize cost-saving areas, enabling faster decisions, less manual effort, and continuous improvement of the respective processes through lean implementation.
PERCEPCIJA TURIZMA I NJEGOVIH UČINAKA NA MALIM JADRANSKIM OTOCIMA – STUDIJE SLUČAJA ZLARINA I KRAPNJA U HRVATSKOJ
Authors: Spevec Dubravka , Grabovac Nevena , Šulc Ivan
Published: February 2025

Turizam na malim hrvatskim otocima počinje se razvijati znatno kasnije nego na susjednom kopnu, i to u uvjetima intenzivne depopulacije. Razvoj turizma odvijao se uglavnom endogeno, privatnim inicijativama i temeljio se na privatnom smještaju, uz vrlo malobrojne hotele i kampove. S obzirom na specifične male otočne zajednice i ekonomske sustave, ciljevi rada su utvrditi stupanj povezanosti ekonomskih aktivnosti lokalnog stanovništva s turizmom i istražiti percepciju turizma i njegovih prostornih učinaka na malim hrvatskim otocima. Za studije slučaja uzeti su otoci Zlarin i Krapanj iz skupine šibenskih otoka, koji se nalaze relativno blizu kopnu i prometno su dobro povezani s regionalnim centrom Šibenikom. Istraživanje je provedeno na temelju desk metoda i terenskog istraživanja, koje je uključilo anketno istraživanje lokalnog stanovništva koje na otocima boravi stalno, sezonski ili povremeno. Rezultati detaljno prikazuju ekonomsku aktivnost stanovništva i njihovu povezanost s turizmom, percepciju prostornih učinaka turizma (okolišnih, ekonomskih i sociokulturnih) i kvalitetu života povezanu s turizmom.
Resistant hypertension post-transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary Cushing’s disease, leading to a diagnosis of primary aldosteronism
Authors: Lee Jack , Tomkins Maria , McDonald Darran , Martin-Grace Julie , Carthy Claire , Finnegan John , Mulholland Douglas , Dugal Neal , Hill Arnold D K , O’Reilly Michael W , Sherlock Mark
Published: February 2025

We describe a case of a 42-year-old gentleman, 5 years post-transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for pituitary-dependent Cushing’s disease, initially presenting with malignant hypertension. Despite an initial improvement in his blood pressure post-TSS, he was found to be persistently hypertensive on follow-up despite no clinical or biochemical evidence of recurrence of hypercortisolism. His blood pressure remained elevated despite five antihypertensive agents. His renin concentration was <5 mIU/L (9–103.5) and aldosterone concentration was 877 pmol/L (0–670). A subsequent CT of the adrenals showed a 1.2 cm left adrenal nodule. He was not suitable for adrenal vein sampling (AVS) at this time due to difficult-to-control hypertension. Biochemistry was difficult to interpret in the context of a multitude of interfering medications, which were necessary given his difficult-to-control hypertension and hypokalaemia. Once suitable, his initial AVS was unsuccessful due to failure to cannulate the right adrenal vein. He was given the further options of repeat AVS vs 11C-metomidate PET vs medical management of his blood pressure. He proceeded with a repeat AVS, with successful cannulation of both adrenal veins. This showed evidence of hyperaldosteronism on the left side, with a lateralisation index of 39.5 and a contralateral suppression index of 0.28. He proceeded with a robotic left adrenalectomy, leading to significant improvement in his blood pressure, dropping from a mean reading of 142/85 during daytime and 150/88 mmHg at nighttime on five antihypertensive agents to normotensive levels of 114/77 mmHg on two agents.

Learning points

It is important to consider a broad differential for uncontrolled hypertension.

It must be considered that patients can present with multiple, isolated endocrinopathies.

There are diagnostic challenges with primary aldosteronism, with medication regimens regularly effecting suitability of testing and interpretation of results.

AVS can be a challenging procedure, leading to diagnostic challenges in the lateralisation of primary aldosteronism; however, it or another form of lateralisation is essential to guide management options.
Modern Landscape of Innovative Technologies in Optimizing the Quality of Life of Cancer Patients
Authors: CHEKHUN V.
Published: February 2025

In the era of the intensive development of post-genomic technologies, it is reasonable to review the modern strategy for solving the problems of cancer patients. The current trend of the new paradigm is based on the knowledge and possibilities of correcting molecular genetic processes based on the principles of precision medicine. The key role in implementing such an approach belongs to modern innovative technologies, among which omics technologies occupy a special place. The genesis of the symbiosis of medical-biological and cybernetic technologies aimed at processing information databases becomes the subject of learning the functioning of complex biological systems. Today, for the dynamic development of the implementation of precision medicine based on innovative technologies, it is worth concentrating the efforts on the deep consolidation of transdisciplinary approaches that can form an algorithm of a new market of medical services aimed at improving the quality of life.
Digital Pathology as an Innovative Tool for Improving Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: ZADVORNYI T.
Published: February 2025

For more than a century, the “gold” standard for diagnosing malignant neoplasms has been pathohistology. However, the continuous advancement of modern technologies is leading to a radical transformation of this field and the emergence of digital pathology. The main advantages of digital pathology include the convenience of the data storage and transfer, as well as the potential for automating diagnostic processes through the application of artificial intelligence technologies. Integrating digital pathology into clinical practice is expected to accelerate the analysis of histological samples, reduce the costs associated with such procedures, and enable the accumulation of large datasets for future scientific research. At the same time, the development of digital pathology faces certain challenges such as the need for technical upgrades in laboratories, ensuring data cybersecurity, and training qualified personnel.
The Potential Role of HDAC1 and HDAC3 Immunoexpression in P53 Downregulation and Tumor Aggressiveness of Colon and Rectum Carcinomas Patients
Authors: QADDOORI YASIR B. , AL-KHAFAJI AHMED S.K. , KHASHMAN BASIM M. , ABDULGHAFOUR KIFAH H.
Published: February 2025

Background. Colorectal cancer, ranking second place in global cancer mortality, arises from diverse causes. There is growing recognition of the substantial involvement of the epigenetic modifications of histones at the DNA level in the occurrence of CRC. Aim. To assess the expression of p53, HDAC1, and HDAC3 proteins in a cohort of CRC patients and to analyze potential relationship between their expression and the stages of CRC progression. Materials and Methods. The retrospective investigation was carried out on 95 paraffin-embedded CRC tissue samples. The expression of p53, HDAC1, and HDAC3 was assessed immunohistochemically. Results. Notably, the expression of the p53 protein in CRC tissue samples exhibited a prominent correlation with the protein expression of both HDAC1 (p < 0.001, rho = 0.522) and HDAC3 (p < 0.001, rho = 0.411), as well as the advanced TNM staging of CRC (p = 0.002, rho = 0.313). Downregulation of p53 was correlated with underexpressed HDAC1 and HDAC3. Nevertheless, the observed expression of p53 exhibited a significant negative correlation with the age of the patients. Conclusion. The data on HDACs-p53 co-expression suggest a possible mechanism of interaction between the expression of these proteins.
Abstracts of the Conference «Assessment of Quality of Life in Cancer Patients Covered in Experimental and Clinical Oncology Publications: Challenges and Opportunities», October 3-4, 2024, Kyiv, Ukraine
Authors: .
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTS OF THE CONFERENCE «ASSESSMENT OF QUALITY OF LIFE IN CANCER PATIENTS COVERED IN EXPERIMENTAL AND CLINICAL ONCOLOGY PUBLICATIONS: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES», October 3-4 2024, Kyiv
Ecosystem research in software engineering
Authors:   NTUU "KPI", Sydorov N.A.
Published: February 2025

The application of the concept of the ecosystem in the software engineering shows the existence of the same problems regarding the definition of the concept of the ecosystem and its use for research that still exists in ecology. Justification for applying the concept of the ecosystem in an area that differs significantly from the ecology area, as in our case, requires researchers to look for analogies. This primarily applies to landscape, energy and matter transfer chains (trophic chains) and nutritional cycles. Until such analogies will be found in software engineering, the ecosystem research is nothing more than system analysis, and the concept of the ecosystem is an attractive concept. The purpose of this position article is to draw the attention of the software engineering community to ecosystem research. Three concepts of ecosystems in ecology, software and software engineering are considered. The composition and essence of ecosystem research in the software engineering are given. The literature review of on the state of ecosystem research in the software was carried out.
«Уникнення новин»: концептуалізація поняття у світовому та українському контексті
Authors: Hudoshnyk Oksana , Kysil Maksym
Published: February 2025

За даними Reuters Digital News Report, у 2024 р. 39 % опитаних визнали, що іноді або часто уникають новин. Тому актуальним є огляд зарубіжних концептуальних підходів до поняття «news avoidance» і масштабування результатів наукових рефлексій на національний інформаційний простір. В оглядовій статті сфокусовано увагу на генезі та термінологічних визначеннях, методиках моніторингу та вивчення явища, причинно-наслідкових ефектах, способах коригування сучасних тенденції поступового зменшення уваги до новин; проаналізовано тематичний кластер міжнародної медіареакції на російсько-українську війну у фокусі заявленої теми.
Процес систематизації наукових досліджень і спроби концептуалізації поняття ускладнений акцентуацією на різних сенсоформуючих складниках: контекстних, медіаструткурних, персоналізованих когнитивно-емоційних. Виокремлення ненавмисного та навмисного уникнення новин з відповідною типологією останнього (постійне, випадкове, вибіркове) дозволяє систематизувати характеристики аудиторної поведінки і вилучити теми, що сприяють зростанню вибіркового уникнення новин. У цьому кластері емоційно виснажливі воєнні новини стають факторами індивідуального новинного вибору й не завжди визначають загальну відмову від інформаційного пошуку. Розуміння цих процесів є особливо актуальним для українського інформаційного простору з огляду на стрімке падіння довіри до медіа. За результатами соцдослідження «Медіаспоживання українців: третій рік повномасштабної війни» (ОПОРА/ USAID) динаміка загрозлива: за час війни аудиторія тих, хто не довіряє жодному джерелу інформації зросла від 5,2 % до 15,2 %.
Нелінійність причинно-наслідкових ефектів уникнення новин ускладнює інструментарій аналітичних узагальнень і нестандартність контрстратегій реагування на глобальне явище.
Становлення телевізійного мовлення на Сумщині: концептуальна модель
Authors: Kyrylenko Oksana
Published: February 2025

Метою дослідження є аналіз концептуальної моделі становлення телевізійного мовлення на Сумщині, ключових етапів його розвитку, особливостей функціонування та ролі у формуванні локального медіапростору. Хронологічні межі охоплюють 1961–1972 рр. Актуальність дослідження зумовлена необхідністю осмислення ретроспективи розвитку локального телебачення, що дозволяє оцінити попередні його моделі та трансполювати результати в сьогодення. Виділено два етапи розвитку. Перший (1961–1968 рр.) — децентралізація телемовлення — характеризується створенням телестудій у Сумах та Конотопі, що було унікальним явищем, оскільки жодна з областей України не мала такого телепредставництва. Телестудії, хоч і регулювалися владними інститутами, мали власні редакційні колективи, самостійно формували контент, орієнтуючись на місцеву аудиторію. Конотопська телестудія випереджала Сумську за обсягом і різноманітністю програм. Другий етап (1968–1972 рр.) — початок централізації місцевого телемовлення — пов’язаний з ліквідацією Конотопської телестудії у 1968 р., що стало наслідком державної політики монополізації інфопростору. Сумська телестудія збільшувала ефірний час, розширювала жанрову палітру, проте залишалася під жорстким ідеологічним контролем. Зростала кількість ретрансляцій Центрального та Українського телебачення. Запровадження двоканального мовлення в 1972 р. остаточно закріпило централізовану модель мовлення. Сумська телестудія, хоч і зберегла місцеву спрямованість, проте стала маргінальним елементом загальнонаціональної медіасистеми. Дослідження відображає загальні тенденції розвитку локальних телемовників, які на сучасному етапі також стикаються з викликами централізації та пошуком ідентичності в умовах глобалізації медіапростору.
A kapcsolati erőszakhoz köthető attitűdök középiskolai fiatalok körében
Authors: Héra Gábor
Published: February 2025

A tanulmányban ismertetett online kérdőíves adatfelvétel célja az volt, hogy a
magyarországi 14–18 éves középiskolai fiatalok kapcsolati erőszakra vonatkozó
attitűdjeiről több információ álljon rendelkezésre. A feltáró jellegű vizsgálat
keretében elért fiatalok létszáma a különböző kérdésblokkok esetében 2626 és
3047 között volt. A kialakított minta nem tekinthető reprezentatívnak, mivel a
bevont sokaság több dimenzió mentén eltér az alapsokaság jellemzőitől.
Eredményeink alapján kirajzolódik, hogy a szexuális és fizikai bántalmazást
utasítják el leginkább a diákok. Ezzel szemben a szóbeli és gazdasági erőszak
megítélése kevésbé kritikus. A kutatási beszámoló a diákok környezetében
tapasztalt párkapcsolati erőszak jellemzőit is ismerteti. Emellett rávilágít
arra, hogy kapcsolati erőszak esetén a diákok jelentős része nem tudja, hogy
kihez fordulhatna segítségért. Eredményeink alapján kirajzolódik az is, hogy a
fiatalok számára milyen szervezetek és szakemberek játszanak leginkább szerepet
az áldozatsegítésben.
Expanding the geographic distribution of Arcyria marginoundulata Nann.-Bremek. & Y. Yamam. (Myxomycetes): first record from South America
Authors: Toschi Lucca de Araujo , Moreira Izabel Cristina , Leonardo-Silva Lucas , Pereira-Silva Geovane , Xavier-Santos Solange
Published: February 2025

Arcyria marginoundulata Nann.-Bremek. & Y. Yamam. is recorded for the ﬁrst time in South America from collections made in areas of Cerrado, also known as the Brazilian Savanna. This species has a restricted occurrence in Latin America, where it has been found in Mexico, Panama, and now Brazil, with all obtained from moist chamber cultures. In addition to updating the distribution of this species, we describe a variation in its natural grayish-white color to an orange hue for reasons yet to be deﬁned.
Determinants of Economic Growth in Latin America: Application of Bayesian Model Average (BMA)
Authors: Márquez Héctor Flores , Gómez Adrián Jiménez
Published: February 2025

Abstract The Latin American region has been characterized by low growth in recent decades, for this, different empirical studies have been developed to identify both microeconomic and macroeconomic elements that influence its performance. The heterogeneity of the results, from an empirical point of view, generates a problem of uncertainty, due to the large number of suggested determining factors. Thus, in order to reduce uncertainty, the Bayesian Model Average (BMA) methodology is proposed. Twenty-seven possible determinants are considered in a sample of 19 Latin American countries covering the period 1996-2021. In the same way, the BMA with instrumental variables (IVBMA) is used to consider possible endogeneity problems that have their origin in the reverse causality of some explanatory variables. The results show some economic and institutional factors significant to understand economic growth in Latin America. Additionally, a non-linear relationship of corruption with economic growth is found.
A Questão da Religião Ortodoxa na Rússia e na Ucrânia: Disputas religiosas e políticas de um ponto de vista histórico
Authors: SEGRILLO ANGELO DE OLIVEIRA
Published: February 2025

RESUMO O presente artigo examina as disputas religiosas entre as igrejas ortodoxas da Ucrânia e da Rússia e seu entrelaçamento com as questões políticas daqueles países de um ponto de vista histórico. Parte-se da situação atual de guerra entre os dois países e são retraçadas suas raízes históricas principais desde a cristianização da região no século X. São utilizadas fontes primárias nas línguas originais daqueles países, em especial os documentos religiosos oficiais emitidos por aquelas organizações. Conclui-se que as questões religiosas principais que dividem as Igrejas dos dois países devem ser analisadas dentro do contexto político maior da relação Igreja-Estado preconizada pela religião ortodoxa em sua teoria sinfônica da interação entre poder temporal e poder religioso.
TELETRABALHO COMPULSÓRIO: REORGANIZAÇÃO E DESORGANIZAÇÃO DO TRABALHO DOCENTE
Authors: Oliveira Juliane de , Faria José Henrique de
Published: February 2025

RESUMO O presente artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa conduzida em uma instituição pública brasileira envolvendo docentes que atuam no ensino superior, no curso de Administração de Empresas. O objetivo é analisar a reorganização e a desorganização do trabalho decorrentes do teletrabalho compulsório. Para esse fim, o método aproxima-se da proposta da Ontologia e Epistemologia Crítica do Concreto, a partir de uma abordagem qualitativa, analítica, abrangendo o período de 2020 a 2022. Os dados foram coletados por meio de consulta a documentos institucionais e de entrevistas semiestruturadas. O estudo contou com a participação de nove docentes. A análise dos dados foi conduzida com base na análise de conteúdo. A pesquisa revela mudanças no trabalho docente durante a pandemia, incluindo adaptações tecnológicas; alterações nas rotinas; extensão da jornada e intensificação do trabalho; e falta de suporte institucional. Contradições surgem entre vantagens e desafios percebidos pelos docentes. Tais elementos resultaram em pressões acumuladas que levaram a um desgaste físico e emocional para esses profissionais. Conclui-se que o teletrabalho trouxe tanto a necessária reorganização para a continuidade do ensino quanto a desorganização, ao modificar profundamente as dinâmicas tradicionais de ensino e aprendizagem.
MiR-501-3p/SPC24 axis affects cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and prognosis in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Liang Aidi , Huang Jiapeng , He Xinyi , Tang Xinru , Xu Xuncan , Chen Ming , Meng Lei , Lin Canbin
Published: February 2025

It has been confirmed that the expression of miR-501-3p is closely related to the behavior of several cancers. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of miR-501-3p/SPC24 axis on the behavior of renal cancer cells and to identify its prognostic value in renal cancer. First, the expression of miR-501-3p in the renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell line was detected using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Second, cell function identification experiments were performed, including CCK-8, scratch, transwell invasion, and flow cytometry assays. Several databases were applied to explore the possible mechanism of miR-501-3p tumor suppressor effect in RCC. To explore the value of miR-501-3p/SPC24 axis in predicting renal cancer patient overall survival (OS), GEPIA (http://gepia.cancer-pku.cn/index.html) was used. Finally, western blot was performed to detect the expression level of SPC24 in renal cancer cells predicted by bioinformatics analysis. Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay was used to verify if SPC24 is a target of mir-501-3p. MiR-501-3p was found to be down-regulated in cancer cells and tissues and to play a role in suppressing tumor cell proliferation, cell viability, cell migration, and cell invasion, while promoting apoptosis. We also found that high expression levels of SPC24 were associated with shorter OS time in patients diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma. In addition, the results of TCGA data analysis and western blot showed that the tumor suppressor effect of miR-501-3p may be achieved by targeting SPC24. The MiR-501-3p/SPC24 axis affects cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and prognosis in renal cell carcinoma.
N-glycosylation of ACTRIIB enhances protein stability leading to rapid cell proliferation and strong resistance to docetaxel in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Qin Qin , Li Junfeng , Shao Yinjian , Liu Lan , Luo Zhibin
Published: February 2025

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant tumor predominantly influenced by Epstein-Barr virus infection and genetic factors. The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily is implicated in various cellular processes, including tumorigenesis. This study aimed to detect the role of one TGF-β superfamily member activin receptor type IIB (ACTRIIB) in NPC. This study analyzed NPC datasets, including GSE12452, GSE102349, and GSE53819. ACTRIIB expression and N-glycosylation levels were assessed by western blot, real-time PCR, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry in NPC cells and tissues. As indicated by the datasets, ACTRIIB was significantly upregulated in NPC tissues, and the up-regulation was associated with poor prognosis. This study confirmed the N-glycosylation of ACTRIIB primarily at the forty-second amino acid, an asparagine. The N-glycosylation of ACTRIIB promoted the localization of ACTRIIB to the cell membrane and prevented the degradation of the protein by lysosomes, through which ACTRIIB activated the downstream Smard1/2 to promote tumor cell proliferation and invasion. Inhibition of N-glycosylation or knockdown of ACTRIIB resulted in reduced cell proliferation and invasion and increased the cell sensitivity to docetaxel. In conclusion, N-glycosylation of ACTRIIB was a critical post-translational modification that enhanced protein stability and induced membrane localization, which facilitates the functions of ACTRIIB in cell proliferation and invasion in NPC. Inhibition of ACTRIIB N-glycosylation could potentially serve as a therapeutic strategy to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy in NPC.
Topical oxybutynin deodorant for axillary hyperhidrosis: a topic or a systemic effect? Rationale and design of the phase II today trial
Authors: Neves Samantha , Volpiani Giuliano Giova , Paganotti Alexia , Menegueti Felipe , Boix Ricardo Sanchez , Caffaro Roberto Augusto , Santos Vanessa Prado dos , Ramacciotti Eduardo
Published: February 2025

Abstract Anticholinergics have been shown to enhance quality of life and reduce sweat in patients with hyperhidrosis. However, it remains unclear whether topical application specifically exerts local or systemic effects. This study’s primary aim is to assess topical oxybutynin’s impact on axillary hyperhidrosis. Twenty patients will be randomized into three groups. Group A will receive 2.5 mg of oral oxybutynin from day 1 to day 35 (on a variable frequency regimen). Group B will be administered a topical placebo for 35 days and Group C will receive a 10% oxybutynin topical spray, to be used twice daily for 35 days. The primary efficacy outcome will be the evaluation of the effectiveness of topical oxybutynin spray in treating hyperhidrosis. The TODAY trial will generate high-quality evidence on the effects of topical oxybutynin, assessing whether its impact is local or systemic in patients with axillary hyperhidrosis.
Artemisia sieberi: leave phytochemical screening, and biological activity with special emphasis on anticancer and anthelminthic efficacy
Authors: Maodaa S.N. , Al-Shaebi E.M. , Alatawi A. , Abdel-Gaber R. , Alawwad S.A. , Alhomoud D. A. , Al-Quraishy S.
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT Intestinal helminths are a significant cause of death every year. Many developing countries do not have access to conventional medications. Moreover, several anthelminthic drugs are associated with side effects and progressive increase in drug resistance. Currently, there is growing interest in discovering new antiparasitic agents from ethnomedicinal plants. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate phytochemical screening, in vitro cytotoxicity, and anthelminthic activity ofArtemisia sieberileaves methanolic extract (ASLE). Using gas chromatography-mass spectra (GC-MS), the bioactive constituents of ASLE were detected. Additionally, different extract concentrations were tested for their anticancer activities when applied to colon cancer cell line HCT116 and liver cells Huh-7. ASLE was prepared and tested in vitro as an anthelmintic using earthwormEisenia fetida. Sixteen different bioactive constituents were found to be present in ASLE using (GC-MS). Moreover, ASLE showed significant cytotoxicity against cancer cells. The LC50 of ASLE was obtained at 353.7±2.54μg/mL for the HCT116 and 467.9±1.97 for the Huh-7cell lines. Compared to Mebendazole, ASLE (200mg/mL) produced paralysis and earthworm death by 6.730±0.517 and 7.334±0.118 min, respectively, while, mebendazole (10 mg/mL) showed 13.91±0.007 and 18.2±0.980 min, respectively. In addition, histological examination revealed noticeable abnormalities in the tegument architecture of treated worms. Our results showed that ASLE has anticancer and anthelminthic activity which encourages the undertaking of numerous in vivo studies to discover an effective treatment.
Unilateral perineal hernia in female cat - case report
Authors: Alves D.P. , Risso T.L. , Moreira T.M. , Navarro K.L.S. , Barros F.F.P.C. , Fernandes M.E.S.L. , Souza H.J.M.
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT The objective is to report a clinical surgical case of perineal unilateral hernia in a female feline, neutered, 13-years old, mixed-breed admitted in the “hidden for review” Veterinary Hospital presenting prostration, constipation, volume increase and pain in right perineal region started two weeks ago. On clinical inspection it was possible to visualize a rigid, irreducible and painful increased volume in the right perineal region. Ultrasound showed that the increased volume was a hernia containing the colon. The surgical correction was made with herniorrhaphy. One week after the surgical procedure the patient presented a cutaneous abscess, probably originated from fecal contamination, and it was treated by prolonging the use of systemic antibiotics and cleaning of the site. On 45-days after the surgical procedure the patient did not show signs of pain or discomfort and defecated normally. It is suggested that despite perineal hernias being unusual in females, especially neutered, this disease should be included as a differential diagnosis in animals presenting increase of perineal volume, regardless of sex. The classical technique with sutures was considered fast, with low trauma, unlike other correction techniques, besides being successful, avoiding recurrence of the condition and bringing comfort and well-being to the patient.
Detection of ESBL-producing strains at the veterinary necropsy environment
Authors: Pinto Letícia B. , Holmström Thérèsse C.N. , David Luria A. , Mendes Marcela B. , Makita Mario T. , Rocha-de-Souza Cláudio M. , Brito Marilene F. , Melo Dayanne A. de , Souza Miliane M.S. de
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT: The emergence and spread of resistance to antimicrobials is one of the three main threats to public health in the 21st century. It must be analyzed using an integrated One Health approach, as it is a health risk shared by people, animals, and the environment. Among these, the necropsy space represents a point of cohesion, being an extremely relevant place for research and understanding the circulation of the bacterial microbiota and its resistance genes. The present study evaluated the occurrence of superbugs in samples from animals necropsied at the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, considering the priority criteria established by the World Health Organization (WHO). Of the 198 samples collected from 45 animals, 20 pet animals, 20 production animals and three wild animals, 325 strains were isolated, of which 51.38% (167/325) were Enterobacterales, 31.69% (103/325) Staphylococcus spp., 12.62% (41/325) Enterococcus spp., 2.46% (8/325) Streptococcus spp. and 1.85% (6/325) non-fermenting Gram-negative bacilli (NFGNB). In 29.13% (30/103) of Staphylococcus spp., the blaZ gene was detected, and in enterobacteria, the presence of bla SHV was detected in 10.18% (17/167), bla TEM in 6.59% (11/167) and bla CTX-M-1 in 4.19% (7/167). These results reveal the occurrence of species characterized as critical superbugs by the WHO in the necropsy environment and reinforce the need to monitor these strains in the veterinary environment not only for the adoption of appropriate control and treatment measures for animals but also for the implementation of protocols safe for the disposal of their carcasses.
Physiology and production components of cowpea under salt stress and chitosan application
Authors: Borborema Lucyelly D. A. , Silva André A. R. da , Lima Geovani S. de , Gheyi Hans R. , Arruda Thiago F. de L. , Nunes Kheila G. , Costa Denis S. , Souza Allesson R. de , Caetano Edmilson J. M. , Sousa Vitória D. de
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is one of the main grain crops that form part of Brazilian food consumption, but its production is affected by edaphoclimatic conditions and high salinity of the irrigation water. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effects of chitosan concentrations on the physiology and production components of cowpea grown under salt stress. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, adopting a completely randomized design, in a 2 × 5 factorial scheme, with two levels of electrical conductivity of irrigation water (ECw - 0.6 and 4.0 dS m-1) and five concentrations of chitosan (0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 g L-1), with four replicates, each of which consisting of three plants. Irrigation water with electrical conductivity of 4.0 dS m-1 negatively affected the synthesis of photosynthetic pigments, chlorophyll a fluorescence, and grain production of cowpea cv. BRS Tapaihum. Foliar application of chitosan at concentrations between 0.46 and 0.71 g L-1 mitigated the deleterious effects of salt stress on photochemical efficiency, grain production, and grain index per plant. Chitosan applications under irrigation water of electrical conductivity of 0.6 dS m-1 promoted an increase in the mean pod length, grain production and grain index of cowpea plants cv. BRS Tapaihum.
Efeito spillover da qualidade do lucro de pares no risco sistemático das empresas brasileiras
Authors: Cardoso Vanessa Rodrigues dos Santos , Gonçalves Rodrigo de Souza , Souza Paulo Vitor Souza de , Britto Paulo Augusto Pettenuzzo de
Published: February 2025

RESUMO Este estudo objetiva analisar o efeito spillover da qualidade do lucro das empresas economicamente relacionadas sobre o risco sistemático das empresas do mercado acionário brasileiro. Embora o estudo do efeito spillover de aspectos do relatório financeiro sobre empresas relacionadas tenha sido foco de pesquisas internacionais recentes, o mesmo não se observa no Brasil. Ademais, segundo Xing e Yan (2019), a relação entre qualidade da informação contábil e o risco sistemático tem sido o tipo de pesquisa menos executada quando se observa os efeitos da informação contábil no custo de capital. Este estudo é relevante para reguladores contábeis, tendo em vista possível efeito de alastramento de suas normas; para investidores, considerando sua restrita capacidade de analisar múltiplas empresas simultaneamente, para considerarem análise por amostra; para preparadores, para avaliarem suas práticas, tendo em vista a qualidade das empresas pares. Contribui-se com a literatura sobre regulação contábil, qualidade da informação contábil e custo de capital ao fornecer evidências do alcance dos efeitos da informação contábil e suas consequências econômicas. A qualidade dos lucros foi medida conforme Dechow e Dichev (2002) e Pae (2005). O risco sistemático foi mensurado pelo beta de mercado do modelo CAPM. Foram realizadas regressões em painel com dados de 2011 a 2022, com 2 amostras setoriais. O risco sistemático de uma empresa depende não só da qualidade do seu próprio lucro, mas também da qualidade do lucro dos seus pares, ou seja, há um efeito spillover no Brasil e sua magnitude é superior ao da qualidade do lucro da empresa. O risco sistemático da empresa está negativamente associado à qualidade do lucro de seus pares e à qualidade do seu lucro medida conforme Dechow e Dichev (2002); mas não quando medida conforme Pae (2005).
AÇÃO HERBICÍDICA DO ISOURON NA CULTURA DA CANA-DE-AÇÚCAR
Authors: Rozanski A. , Blanco H. García , Honma L. O.
Published: February 2025

RESUMO Dois experimentos de campo foram conduzidos no período de novembro de 1982 a maio de 1984, nos municípios de Capivari e Rafard, Estado de São Paulo, para avaliar na cultura de cana-deaçúcar o comportamento do isouron, N'- [5-(l,1-dimetiletil)-3-isoxazolil)-N,N, dimetilutéif, novo herbicida de ação sistêmica. O isouron nas doses de 0,250, 0,375, 0,500, 0,750 e 1,00kg/ha-1 , aplicado em pré-emergência das ervas e da cultura, mostrou-se seletivo para as variedades Na 5679 e SP 71-1406, não provocando fitotoxicidade nas plantas nem reduzindo a sua produtividade agrícola, e foi eficiente durante dois meses no controle de Brachiaria plantaginea (Link) Hitch, Digitaria Sanguinalis (L.) Scop., Amaranthus viridis L., Sonchus oleraceus L., Cyperus eragrostis Lam. e Richardia brasiliensis Gomez. Os resultados de controle, de modo geral, foram melhores quando empregadas doses maiores dentro da amplitude testada.