bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolasi dan Identifikasi Bakteri Penyebab Bau Kaki
Authors:   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Vernanda Renna Yulia , Ariyanti Agnes Dwi ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Oktaviana Claudia ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Gunawan Firman Sandi ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Prastica Yohana Maria Vianney ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Mauryn Flora Raliana ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Rati Angelica Krisensiani ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Hasfayo Fridolin Putri ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Ribeiro Margareta Vita ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya
Published: July 2023

Foot odour is caused by combination of sweat and bacteria. Smelly feet can lead to lack of confidence and discomfort. In this study, conducted on 21 probands to isolate the microbes with the following criteria: male, aged 18-25 years, wore shoes for 8 hours without taking them off, moist, and smelly feet. Isolating microbes from the feet using a cotton swab. The result of the study found 7 isolates. Several bacteria isolates, namely: Staphylococcus sp, Bacillus sp, Enterobacter sp. In addition, isolates from fungi Aspergillus sp, Penicillium sp, Syncephalastrum sp, and Candida krusei yeast were isolate
Uji Aktivitas Antikolesterol Variasi Ekstrak Etanol Sawi Pakcoy (Brassica chinensis) Secara In Vitro
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Nasional, Andriani Siska , Anggraini Devina Ingrid ,   Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Nasional
Published: July 2023

Masyarakat sering mengkonsumsi makanan cepat saji (fast food) yang mengandung asam lemak jenuh dan kolesterol yang tinggi sehingga mengakibatkan pada peningkatan kadar kolesterol darah. Kadar kolesterol yang tinggi di dalam tubuh dapat menyebabkan terjadinya hiperkolesterol dan jika berlangsung lama mengakibatkan hipertensi, stroke, jantung koroner, dan obesitas. Terdapat berbagai pengobatan dari bahan alam yang membantu dalam penurunan kadar kolesterol. Sawi pakcoy (Brassica chinensis) mempunyai kandungan seperti flavonoid, alkaloid, tanin, dan saponin yang diduga dapat menurunkan kadar kolesterol. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan tujuan untuk mengetahui aktivitas ekstrak sawi pakcoy dan pengaruh perbedaan konsentrasi pelarut ekstraksi terhadap penurunan kolesterol secara in vitro. Penentuan aktivitas antikolesterol dilakukan menggunakan metode Lieberman burchard yang diukur dengan spektrofotometri uv-vis pada panjang gelombang maksimal 667,5 nm. Konsentrasi ekstrak etanol 70% sawi pakcoy yang digunakan berturut turut pada konsentrasi 5, 10, 15, 10, 25 ppm sedangan ekstrak etanol 96% menggunakan konsentrasi 15, 20, 25, 30, dan 35 ppm. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ekstrak etanol 70% sawi pakcoy memiliki aktivitas antikolesterol lebih baik yang ditunjukkan dengan nilai EC50 sebesar 20,76 ppm dibandingkan ekstrak etanol 96% sawi pakcoy memiliki EC50 sebesar 29,10 ppm.
The Past as Prologue: Slavery, Colonialism and Modern Human Rights
Authors: Udombana Nsongurua J.
Published: July 2023

The article reflects on slavery and colonialism and how both historical crimes affect Africa and its peoples. It argues that the struggle against slavery laid the foundation for the modern human rights movement. The desire to recover the losses suffered from the depredations and plunder of colonialism, in part, shaped the evolution of the right to development. The article calls for reparation for Africa for the damages the continent and its peoples suffered from slavery and colonialism. It argues that the concept of universal human rights is meaningless without some form of atonement for universal human wrongs.
Dil Öğretiminde Geçişli Dil Süreçleri Pedagojisi Kullanımı: Bir Derleme Çalışması
Authors: İLHAN Berk
Published: July 2023

Uzun yıllardır tek dilli bakış açısıyla şekillenen dil öğretiminde, tüm dil kaynaklarının derslerde kullanılması gerektiğinin savunulduğu çok dilli dil öğretimi görüşü tartışmaları başlamıştır. Tek dilli bakış açısı, yalnızca öğretilen hedef dili sınıf içerisinde kullanır ve dili ana dil olarak kullanan bireylerin yeterliğini hedefler. Böyle bir sınıfta, öğrencilerin diğer dil kaynakları kullanılmaz. Ortak temel yeterlik ve dinamik çift dillilik tartışmaları, öğrencilerin tüm dil kaynaklarının kullanılmasının hedef dili de geliştirebileceğini savunmuş ve içerik ve dil öğretiminin, tüm dil kaynaklarıyla yapılmasını önermiştir. Geçişli dil süreçleri kavramı, bu görüşün içindeki bir uygulama ve süreçtir. Geçişli dil süreçleri vasıtasıyla, iletişim durumunun gerektirdiği şekilde bireyler tüm dil kaynakları arasında geçiş yapabilir aynı zamanda tüm dil ötesi kaynaklarını kullanabilirler. Geçişli dil süreçleri pedagojisi ise bu kavramın öğretim amacıyla derslerde stratejik kullanımıdır. Pedagojinin genellikle ikinci dil öğretimi bağlamında genel eğitim programlarında çalışılmasına rağmen vadettikleri yabancı dil öğretim bağlamında da kullanılabileceğini göstermektedir. Geçişli dil süreçleri kavramı ve pedagojisi genellikle İngilizce ve diğer dillerin öğretimi bağlamlarında çalışılmıştır. Bu derleme makalesinin amacı hem kavram ve pedagojiyi özetlemek hem de yapılan çalışmaların derlenmesidir. Yabancı dil olarak Türkçe öğretimi günümüzde gittikçe daha fazla yaygınlaşmaktadır ancak bu bağlamda geçişli dil süreçleri pedagojisi çalışmaları yok denecek kadar azdır. Kavramların özetlendiği ve çalışmaların sunulduğu bu derleme çalışmasının özellikle yabancı dil olarak Türkçe öğretimi bağlamındaki çalışmalara katkı sunabileceği öngörülmektedir.
Arapçada Cümle Kurulumuna Katılan Ana Unsurların Belâğî Yönden İncelenmesi
Authors: Akyüz Zafer
Published: July 2023

Arapçada cümleyi oluşturan üç temel unsur vardır. Bunlar: İsnad, müsnedün ileyh ve müsneddir. İsnad, belâgat ilminin üç kısmından biri olan meânî ilminin en önemli konularından biridir. Müsned ile müsnedün ileyh arasındaki yani özne ile yüklem arasındaki anlam ilişkisini ifade eden isnad, müfred lafızların bir araya gelmesiyle teşekkül eden terkiplerle onların manalarını ve terkibi oluşturan unsurlar arasındaki karşılıklı ilişkiyi konu edinmesi yönünden meânî ilminin temelini oluşturur. Cümleyi oluşturan unsurlardan müsnedün ileyh ve müsnede umde, bunların dışındaki öğelere ise kayıt veya fazla denir. Belâgat âlimleri, belâğî isnadı üç başlık altında toplamışlardır. Bunlar: Haber-i isnadın halleri, müsnedün ileyhin halleri ve müsnedin halleridir. Bu araştırmada konunun çok geniş olması hasebiyle belâgat ilminde cümlenin temel unsurlarını teşkil eden isnad, müsnedün ileyh ve müsnedin durumlarını bütün yönleriyle inceleme imkânı bulunmadığından isnadın sözlük ve terim anlamı, belâgat açısından isnad, isnadın halleri ile müsnedün ileyh ve müsnedin hazif, zikir, takdîm, te’hîr vb. durumlarına temas edilmiştir.
İbn Sînâ’nın Bilinmeyen Bir Eseri: Yetkinlik ve Müşâhede Bağlamında Üsûlûcyâ Yorumu
Authors: İhtiyar Adnan
Published: July 2023

Bu çalışmada, İbn Sînâ felsefesinde nefis-akıl ilişkisinin özünü oluşturan entelektüel deneyim ekseninde filozofun Kitâbü’l-İnsâf’ta Üsûlûcyâ üzerine kaleme aldığı Tefsîru Kitâbi Üsûlûcyâ başlıklı yorumu mercek altına alınmıştır. Bu bağlamda, araştırmamızın çatısını temel olarak iki bölüm oluşturmaktadır. Birinci bölümde, Üsûlûcyâ yorumunun odağında İbn Sînâ’da entelektüel deneyimin kavramsal boyutunu ifade eden yetkinlik fikri ele alınmıştır. İkinci bölümde ise, söz konusu deneyimin görsel boyutuna tekabül eden müşâhede tecrübesi incelenmiştir. Metinler arası bir okuma gerçekleştirdiğimiz bu incelemenin temel amacı, bir taraftan Üsûlûcyâ yorumu ile Kitâbü’ş-Şifâ ve el-İşârât ve’t-tenbîhât gibi ana eserler başta olmak üzere İbn Sînâ külliyatı arasında mukayese yaparak İbn Sînâ’nın yorumlarının onun öteki eserlerinde benimsediği felsefî ilkeleri yansıtıp yansıtmadığının izini sürmek, diğer taraftan İbn Sînâ’nın sistemi açısından Tefsîru Kitâbi Üsûlûcyâ’nın bize ne kattığı sorusuna cevap aramaktır. Bunun için, metinsel karşılaştırma metodunun yanı sıra, eleştirel okuma ve sistematik analiz yöntemlerine de müracaat edilmiştir. Sonuçta, Tefsîru Kitâbi Üsûlûcyâ’nın İbn Sînâ’nın felsefî sisteminin temelleriyle uyum içinde olduğu ve modern literatürde büyük ölçüde göz ardı edilmiş olmasına rağmen esasında filozofun devasa külliyatı içerisinde mümtaz bir konuma sahip olduğu görülmüştür.
Neorealist Analysis of Security Dilemma in Cyberspace; A Quantitative Study
Authors: Arslan Ahmet Selçuk
Published: July 2023

Two crucial factors have urged IR academia to account for state behavior in cyberspace: the increasing volume of cyber attacks and the rising scale of damage induced by these attacks. This has led to a series of initiatives appealing to the grand theories of IR in order to scrutinize state behavior in depth, particularly regarding the securitization and militarization of cyberspace. Following a similar pattern, this work intends to contribute to IR academia by presenting a neorealist analysis of state behavior in cyberspace, relying on quantitative methods. Two regression analyses were conducted using a compiled dataset consisting of 4,099 samples. The analyses indicate that as states build more cyber security capacity, they tend to engage in more disruptive actions against other states in cyberspace. Both regression models were subsequently trained using artificial neural networks (ANNs) and showed improvements in their metrics compared to the traditional regression counterparts.
TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS, LETRAMENTOS E JOGOS AMADORES COLABORATIVOS: UMA JORNADA EM HOGWARTS
Authors: Ignácio Bruna Eduarda , Azzari Eliane Fernandes
Published: July 2023

Neste artigo, apresenta-se a criação e o desenvolvimento de um jogo digital amador e colaborativo que utiliza o WhatsApp como plataforma de base para partidas e como contexto interativo-comunicativo para os jogadores. Operando a partir de ideias advindas do círculo bakhtiniano acerca da subjetividade e do ato responsivo/responsável, e adotando os estudos dos Letramentos, busca-se ampliar a compreensão de uma prática social em que uma comunidade de fãs se empenha em réplica ativa à narrativa da saga literária Harry Potter. A análise de alguns dos dados, apresentados neste recorte de pesquisa, também destaca a transposição de práticas letradas do universo educacional para a esfera do entretenimento em ambiente digital, como decorrência do engajamento de jovens apreciadores que constroem e participam de partidas do jogo Hogwarts Games e que, assim, inter-relacionam culturas juvenis e escolares.
DO CONCEITO DE LETRAMENTO DIGITAL À SUA INSERÇÃO NO AMBIENTE ACADÊMICO
Authors: Ghisleni Taís Steffenello , Conceição Elizete de Fatima Veiga da
Published: July 2023

Este artigo é um recorte dos resultados de uma pesquisa de mestrado que estudou o letramento digital no contexto formador do pedagogo. Estamos inseridos na era digital, da informação e do conhecimento, a qual está privilegiando menos a mão de obra braçal e exigindo mais nossa capacidade de utilizar o cérebro, capacidades humanas de pensar, agir, analisar e discernir o que é acessado via WEB. Assim, tem-se como objetivo, explorar o letramento digital e sua inserção na formação acadêmica do pedagogo. A metodologia utilizada foi a pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva e transversal, caracterizando-se como um estudo de caso, que utilizou como forma de aquisição de conhecimento questionários e a análise de conteúdo. Os questionários, aplicados com alunas de um curso de pedagogia foram realizados com perguntas abertas, e foram preenchidos sem a interferência das pesquisadoras. Para a análise dos dados foi utilizada a técnica de análise de conteúdo proposta por Bardin (2016). No que tange ao entendimento das alunas sobre o conceito de letramento digital, elas não se distanciam do que é defendido pelos autores que embasam o estudo, porém, apesar de afirmarem que suas experiências com as tecnologias no curso foram significantes, a maioria das alunas ainda não sente segurança para desenvolver o letramento digital em suas práticas futuras. Conclui-se que o letramento digital está sendo trabalhado no curso de pedagogia objeto do estudo, porém não se completa sem a ação humana.
CONCEPÇÃO, ORGANIZAÇÃO E AUTONOMIA DOS CURSOS DE FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES PARA O 1º CICLO DE ENSINO BÁSICO EM PORTUGAL
Authors: Gurgel de Vasconcelos Rincon Claudia Regina , Piccolo Viero Devechi Catia
Published: July 2023

O artigo discute a organização e a proposta dos cursos de formação de professores do ensino do 1º Ciclo do Ensino Básico em Portugal. Por meio de uma abordagem hermenêutica, analisa documentos legais e diretrizes nacionais portuguesas referentes à formação dos professores e os resultados de entrevistas semiestruturadas realizadas com diretores/coordenadores de duas universidades e dois institutos politécnicos portugueses. Conclui que o curso está organizado em habilidades e competências orientados por Bolonha, sem questionamentos em torno da mudança de paradigma. São apontadas dificuldades quanto à continuidade entre licenciatura e mestrado, diminuição do espaço de autonomia dos cursos, mas não em torno do enfoque das competências e habilidades.
Integrated analysis of circRNA, lncRNA, miRNA and mRNA to reveal the ceRNA regulatory network of postnatal skeletal muscle development in Ningxiang pig
Authors: Yu Zonggang , Xu Xueli , Ai Nini , Wang Kaiming , Zhang Peiwen , Li Xintong , LiuFu Sui , Liu Xiaolin , Jiang Jun , Gu Jingjing , Gao Ning , Ma Haiming
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The development of skeletal muscle is regulated by regulatory factors of genes and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs).

Methods: The objective of this study was to understand the transformation of muscle fiber type in the longissimus dorsi muscle of male Ningxiang pigs at four different growth stages (30, 90, 150, and 210 days after birth, n = 3) by histological analysis and whole transcriptome sequencing. Additionally, the study investigated the expression patterns of various RNAs involved in muscle fiber transformation and constructed a regulatory network for competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) that includes circular RNA (circRNA)/long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-microRNA (miRNA)-messenger RNA (mRNA).

Results: Histomorphology analysis showed that the diameter of muscle fiber reached its maximum at 150 days after birth. The slow muscle fiber transformation showed a pattern of initial decrease followed by an increase. 29,963 circRNAs, 2,683 lncRNAs, 986 miRNAs and 22,411 mRNAs with expression level ≥0 were identified by whole transcriptome sequencing. Furthermore, 642 differentially expressed circRNAs (DEc), 505 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DEl), 316 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmi) and 6,090 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEm) were identified by differential expression analysis. Functions of differentially expressed mRNA were identified by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). GO enrichment analysis indicates that 40 known genes and 6 new genes are associated with skeletal muscle development. Additionally, KEGG analysis shows that these genes regulate skeletal muscle development via MAPK, FoxO, Hedgehog, PI3K-Akt, Notch, VEGF and other signaling pathways. Through protein-protein interaction (PPI) and transcription factor prediction (TFP), the action mode of skeletal muscle-related genes was explored. PPI analysis showed that there were stable interactions among 19 proteins, meanwhile, TFP analysis predicted 22 transcription factors such as HMG20B, MYF6, MYOD1 and MYOG, and 12 of the 19 interacting proteins were transcription factors. The regulatory network of ceRNA related to skeletal muscle development was constructed based on the correlation of various RNA expression levels and the targeted binding characteristics with miRNA. The regulatory network included 31 DEms, 59 miRNAs, 667 circRNAs and 224 lncRNAs.

conclusion: Overall, the study revealed the role of ceRNA regulatory network in the transformation of skeletal muscle fiber types in Ningxiang pigs, which contributes to the understanding of ceRNA regulatory network in Ningxiang pigs during the skeletal muscle development period.
Glycolytic activity is required for the onset of neural plate folding during neural tube closure in mouse embryos
Authors: Sakai Daisuke , Murakami Yuki , Shigeta Daichi , Tomosugi Mitsuhiro , Sakata-Haga Hiromi , Hatta Toshihisa , Shoji Hiroki
Published: July 2023

Physiological hypoxia is critical for placental mammalian development. However, the underlying mechanisms by which hypoxia regulates embryonic development remain unclear. We discovered that the expression of glycolytic genes partially depends on hypoxia in neuroepithelial cells of E8.25 mouse embryos. Consistent with this finding, inhibiting glycolysis during the early phase of neural tube closure (E8.0–8.5) resulted in a neural tube closure defect. In contrast, inhibiting the electron transport chain did not affect neural tube formation. Furthermore, inhibiting glycolysis affected cell proliferation, but not differentiation and survival. Inhibiting glycolysis repressed the phosphorylation of myosin light chain 2, and consequent neural plate folding. Our findings revealed that anaerobic glycolysis regulates neuroepithelial cell proliferation and apical constriction during the early phase of neural tube closure.
Utility of Borrelia-specific IgM and IgG antibody titer determinations during a 12-year period – results from a clinical laboratory in Northern Sweden
Authors: Liu Xijia , Tabibzada Nazanin , Lindgren Helena , Sjöstedt Anders
Published: July 2023

Interpretation of serological findings in suspected Lyme borreliosis (LB) is challenging and IgM reactivities may have low predictive value. Therefore, if used indiscriminately, there is a risk for incorrect diagnosis of LB. To evaluate the usefulness of IgM titer determination, we performed a study of the prevalence of Borrelia-specific antibodies in serological samples from patients with suspected LB analyzed during the period 2010 - 2021 at the University Hospital of Umeå in Sweden. In total, 19,335 samples had been analyzed for the presence of IgG and IgM antibodies. Overall, there were higher percentages of IgM positive or borderline titers, 1,847 (9.6%) and 905 (4.7%), respectively, than IgG positive or borderline titers, 959 (5.0%) and 406 (2.1%), respectively. Peak number of samples were recorded 2012 - 2013, exceeding 1,800, whereas there were around 1,200 during 2020 - 2021. The peak number of positive IgG and/or positive IgM samples were observed during the period 2015 - 2017 with close to, or above 400, and concomitantly, the proportion of IgG positive samples increased markedly. For IgG positive samples, the increase followed a positive linear time trend (P< 0.001). Peak monthly numbers were observed during August, September, and October. This seasonal increase was significant for the IgG positive group (P< 0.05), but not for the IgM positive/IgG negative group. Repeated samples were obtained from 3,188 individuals and of the initial samples 2,817 were (88%) IgG negative and 2,315 (72%) were IgM negative and of these, 130 (4%) showed IgG seroconversion and 300 (9%) IgM seroconversion. Collectively, the data demonstrate that IgG and/or IgM positive samples represented a minority of all samples, even when repeated sampling had occurred, and IgM positive samples were much more common than IgG positive samples. Thus, the accuracy of the clinical suspicion was low and this will lead to a low predictive value of the analysis, in particular of IgM. These findings question the use of IgM titer determination as a routine analysis.
Transferrin receptor-targeting property of pabinafusp alfa facilitates its uptake by various types of human brain-derived cells in vitro
Authors: Fukatsu Tomoki , Morio Hanae , Furihata Tomomi , Sonoda Hiroyuki
Published: July 2023

Pabinafusp alfa, which is an anti-mucopolysaccharidosis II drug, consists of iduronate-2-sulfatase (IDS) genetically fused with an anti-transferrin receptor (TfR) antibody. While IDS is known to enter cells via mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR)-mediated endocytosis, the anti-TfR antibody moiety of pabinafusp alfa is supposed to trigger the TfR-mediated transcytosis involved in its blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration to deliver IDS into the brain, which thus makes it effective for treatment of brain symptoms of the disease. However, since these uptake processes remain unexamined in vitro, this study aims at elucidating how human brain cells manipulate these receptors to facilitate pabinafusp alfa uptake. The results of pabinafusp alfa uptake assays showed that the TfR played an primary role in its uptake by brain microvascular endothelial cells. The TfR contribution was also found in neuronal cells at levels comparable to M6PR. Interestingly, the predominant roles of TfR over M6PR in pabinafusp alfa uptake were also observed in astrocytes and pericytes. To summarize, our results support the TfR-targeting strategy of pabinafusp alfa for facilitating its BBB penetration while simultaneously identifying previously unnoticed TfR roles in its uptake into human neuronal and non-neuronal brain cells. These findings are certain to provide important insights into the mechanisms behind clinical actions of pabinafusp alfa.
Spatial variation in landscape evolution of the Xiaojiang Region, SE Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Dan , Dong Youpu , Liu Yi , Duan Jiaxin
Published: July 2023

Both tectonism and erosion are presumed to have influenced the landscape evolution of the Xiaojiang Region, SE Tibetan Plateau. However, it remains unclear which of these broad processes has played the dominant role in determining landscape form and evolution. To establish the relative importance of these two processes, we measured river longitudinal profiles and spatial variation in selected geomorphic indices within the region. We measured longitudinal profiles along four large rivers from north to south through the region and also measured drainage basin asymmetry, basin shape index, hypsometric integral, normalized stream-length gradient index, and the ratio of valley-floor width to valley height of 77 drainage basins in this region. The four longitudinal profiles reveal that tectonic activity decreases from north to south. Spatial variation in geomorphic indices reflects that the topography in the Xiaojiang Region may be primarily influenced by three major faults: the Xiaojiang fault, the Shiping fault, and the Qujiang fault, rather than influenced by precipitation, lithology, and drainage reorganization. The tectonic activity in different parts of the region shows that the northern part is the most active, the central part is the least active, and the southern part is moderately active. It is concluded that the spatial variation in landscape form and evolution of the Xiaojiang Region has been influenced more strongly by tectonics than by erosion.
Characteristics of coal oxidation and spontaneous combustion in Baishihu Mine, Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhang Wanling , Zeng Qiang
Published: July 2023

The characteristics of oxidized spontaneous combustion of coal can reflect the performance of coal, and an appropriate structural model can reflect it more intuitively. In this study, samples from Baishihu Coal Mine were used to study the macromolecular structure, microcrystal structure, and oxidation process of coal by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (13C-NMR), and Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The molecular formula C198H164O40N2 and the molecular structure model were obtained. ChemDraw and Materials Studio were used for the experimental data, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) was used to verify the aromatic ring structure built to make the constructed structural model more accurate. In the water evaporation stage, the high ring aromatic layer is converted into the low ring number. Furthermore, in the high-temperature stage, the low ring aromatic layer is transformed due to the coking and condensation reaction of the coal sample. The C element in the coal sample mainly participates in the reaction in C–C and C–H forms. The spacing and effective number of aromatic layers are relatively stable. The aggregation state of coal is a macromolecular group formed between molecules with different aromatic structures and fat structures, which is formed by the interaction of internal defects and pores of molecular groups. With the increase in the treatment temperature, water loss is heavier, oxygen absorption and weight gain are perplexing, and the value of the burnout temperature is higher. The apparent activation energy of the coal–oxygen reaction increases, and the reaction is more intricate to achieve. This study furthers the understanding of coal spontaneous combustion in this mining area, provides a reference for the prevention and control of coal spontaneous combustion.
Deterioration mechanism of mechanical properties of phosphorite under different saturation duration
Authors: Li Shujian , Wang Chongyang , Zhang Dongming , Wang Menglai , Zhou Fan , Pan Yisha
Published: July 2023

In order to explore the deterioration mechanism of mechanical properties of phosphate rock under different saturation time, the degradation mechanism of phosphoric rock samples under different saturation duration was analyzed by laboratory test, theoretical analysis and neural network modeling, and the results is as follows: saturation of water will result in deterioration of mechanical properties of samples. The peak compressive strength and peak strain of the samples decreased gradually with the increase of saturation time. The average peak strength of 12, 24, and 36 h saturated specimens is 8.6%, 21.1%, and 32.2% lower than that of natural specimens, and the peak strain is 5.9%, 13.9%, and 31.3% lower, respectively. The stress-strain curves of the samples with water saturation for 36 h have more jitter stages after the peak, indicating that the plastic characteristics of the samples will be increased with water saturation for a long time. The neural network method was used to analyze the test parameters and the mechanical parameters of the samples, and the mechanical properties under the action of saturated water and confining pressure were obtained. The neural network model was established to represent the mechanical properties of the samples, and the average accuracy of the model was 0.89. The model can be used to predict and verify the mechanical properties of samples under other saturation and confining pressure conditions in the limited region. The research results can provide theoretical reference for the deterioration mechanism of confining pressure in water-rich roadway.
Open education practices: a meta-synthesis of literature
Authors: Shareefa Mariyam , Moosa Visal , Hammad Aaida , Zuhudha Aminath , Wider Walton
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Most of the recent reviews of literature on open education practices (OEP) seem to be limited in their scope, inhibiting their capacity to arrive at a comprehensive understanding of the concept of OEP. Hence, this systematic literature review was conducted with the purpose of analysing past research on OEP in an effort to identify how OEP is theorised and defined in the existing literature.

Methods

Employing a systematic protocol, the literature search was conducted using the Dimensions database. A total of 30 publications were considered for the qualitative analysis, which engaged a thematic approach.

Results

The findings indicated that the concept of OEP can be explained with a combination of three major components: open education resources, an open teaching and learning process, and open research and scholarly practice. The findings also showed that these components should be grounded in six principles: accessibility, flexibility, shareability, affordability, innovation, and academic freedom.

Discussions

The findings imply that, in order to meaningfully execute open education practices, each of the three components must be given equal importance and that these practices be well grounded in the identified six principles.
Process simulation on the planning of wind-PV storage for near-zero carbon emission
Authors: Linna Hou , Yi Bai , Juning Su
Published: July 2023

The proposal of the dual carbon policy has put forward new requirements for the planning of wind power photovoltaic energy storage, which should not only meet economic requirements but also consider the timeliness of carbon reduction. Particularly, in recent years, there has been a contradiction between energy waste and power shortage in some regions of China, which needs to be resolved through reasonable planning of the capacity of multi energy systems. Based on the aforementioned background, this paper uses system dynamics simulation to analyze the efforts that should be made to maintain a stable energy balance between wind–solar power generation output and energy storage capacity when considering the cost of the power side and the demand response level of the load side. We assume a development plan for wind and solar energy, and optimize the allocation of energy storage capacity under these conditions to meet the balance requirements of carbon reduction and investment cost reduction. We use system dynamics simulation to simulate the energy storage demand under the demand response. In order to achieve the near-zero carbon goal, this paper discusses the reasonable state of a power energy structure based on different carbon emission reduction goals. Finally, we discovered the relationship between investment costs and carbon reduction targets as increasing carbon reduction targets will greatly increase investment costs and provide some suggestions for planning.
Carbon stocks and footprints of smallholder cacao systems in Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi
Authors: Miharza Try , Wijayanto Nurheni , Roshetko James M. , Siregar Iskandar Zulkarnaen
Published: July 2023

Cacao (Theobroma cacao) is a commodity that plays an important role in supporting economic and social development. However, cacao production can also be a major contributor to carbon emissions, which has stimulated various efforts toward sustainable cacao farm management. There remains a gap in knowledge regarding the links between carbon stocks and carbon footprints, which can serve as indicators of environment “friendliness.” In this study, we investigated carbon stocks and carbon footprints in two cacao cultivation systems, agroforests and monocultural systems, and the biophysical aspects (biotic and abiotic factors) that might contribute to the variability of carbon levels. System inventories, soil samples, and farmer interviews identified the characteristics and management practices of two cacao production systems. Results show that cacao agroforests accumulated more carbon stocks than cacao monocultures, 134.4 Mg C ha−1 and 104.7 Mg C ha−1, respectively, while cacao monocultural systems had higher carbon footprints than cacao agroforests, 1914.4 kg CO2e ha−1 and 932.1 ± 251.6 kg CO2e ha−1, respectively. Canopy cover, tree density, and soil organic carbon were the biophysical aspects that showed a significantly positive correlation with carbon stock levels, while canopy cover had a significantly negative correlation with carbon footprint levels. These results suggest that cacao agroforests are more climate-friendly management systems due to their ability to maintain high carbon stock levels while producing low carbon footprints.
Damage-mediated macrophage polarization in sterile inflammation
Authors: Koncz Gábor , Jenei Viktória , Tóth Márta , Váradi Eszter , Kardos Balázs , Bácsi Attila , Mázló Anett
Published: July 2023

Most of the leading causes of death, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, dementia, neurodegenerative diseases, and many more, are associated with sterile inflammation, either as a cause or a consequence of these conditions. The ability to control the progression of inflammation toward tissue resolution before it becomes chronic holds significant clinical potential. During sterile inflammation, the initiation of inflammation occurs through damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) in the absence of pathogen-associated molecules. Macrophages, which are primarily localized in the tissue, play a pivotal role in sensing DAMPs. Furthermore, macrophages can also detect and respond to resolution-associated molecular patterns (RAMPs) and specific pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) during sterile inflammation. Macrophages, being highly adaptable cells, are particularly influenced by changes in the microenvironment. In response to the tissue environment, monocytes, pro-inflammatory macrophages, and pro-resolution macrophages can modulate their differentiation state. Ultimately, DAMP and RAMP-primed macrophages, depending on the predominant subpopulation, regulate the balance between inflammatory and resolving processes. While sterile injury and pathogen-induced reactions may have distinct effects on macrophages, most studies have focused on macrophage responses induced by pathogens. In this review, which emphasizes available human data, we illustrate how macrophages sense these mediators by examining the expression of receptors for DAMPs, RAMPs, and SPMs. We also delve into the signaling pathways induced by DAMPs, RAMPs, and SPMs, which primarily contribute to the regulation of macrophage differentiation from a pro-inflammatory to a pro-resolution phenotype. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms behind the transition between macrophage subtypes can offer insights into manipulating the transition from inflammation to resolution in sterile inflammatory diseases.
Impact of vaccine platform and BCG vaccination on antibody responses to COVID-19 vaccination
Authors: Messina Nicole L. , Sperotto Mariana G. , Puga Marco A. M. , da Silva Patricia V. , de Oliveira Roberto D. , Moore Cecilia L. , Pittet Laure F. , Jamieson Tenaya , Dalcolmo Margareth , dos Santos Glauce , Jardim Bruno , Lacerda Marcus V. G. , Curtis Nigel , Croda Julio
Published: July 2023

Multiple factors, including vaccine platform and prior vaccinations, influence vaccine responses. We compared antibody responses to CoronaVac (Sinovac) and ChAdOx1-S (AstraZeneca-Oxford) vaccination in 874 healthcare workers in Brazil. As participants were randomised to BCG vaccination or placebo in the preceding 0-6 months as part of the BCG vaccination to reduce the impact of COVID-19 in healthcare workers (BRACE) trial, we also investigated the influence of recent BCG vaccination on antibody responses to these COVID-19 vaccines. Twenty-eight days after the second dose of each vaccine, ChAdOx1-S induced a stronger anti-spike IgG response than CoronaVac vaccination. Recent BCG vaccination did not impact IgG antibody responses to ChAdOx1-S or CoronaVac.
The role of mononuclear phagocyte system in IgA nephropathy: pathogenesis and prognosis
Authors: Liu Yiwen , Gong Yan , Xu Gaosi
Published: July 2023

Although the “multiple hits” theory is a widely accepted pathogenesis in IgA nephropathy (IgAN), increasing evidence suggests that the mononuclear/macrophage system plays important roles in the progression of IgAN; however, the exact mechanism is unclear. In the present study, we explored 1,067 patients in 15 studies and found that the number of macrophages per glomerulus was positively related with the degree of hematuria, and the macrophages in the glomeruli were mainly related to mesangial proliferation (M) in renal biopsy. In the tubulointerstitium, macrophages were significantly paralleled to tubulointerstitial α-SMA and NF-kB expression, tubulointerstitial lesion, tubule atrophy/interstitial fibrosis (T), and segmental glomerulosclerosis (S). In the glomeruli and tubulointerstitium, M1 accounted for 85.41% in the M classification according to the Oxford MEST-C, while in the blood, M1 accounted for 100%, and the patients with low CD89+ monocyte mean fluorescence intensity displayed more severe pathological characteristics (S1 and T1-2) and clinical symptoms. M1 (CD80+) macrophages were associated with proinflammation in the acute phase; however, M2 (CD163+) macrophages participated in tissue repair and remodeling, which correlated with chronic inflammation. In the glomeruli, M2 macrophages activated glomerular matrix expansion by secreting cytokines such as IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor-β (TGF-β), and M0 (CD68+) macrophages stimulated glomerular hypercellularity. In the tubulointerstitium, M2 macrophages played pivotal roles in renal fibrosis and sclerosis. It is assumed that macrophages acted as antigen-presenting cells to activate T cells and released diverse cytokines to stimulate an inflammatory response. Macrophages infiltrating glomeruli destroy the integrity of podocytes through the mesangio-podocytic-tubular crosstalk as well as the injury of the tubule.
Lactobacillus plantarum GX17 benefits growth performance and improves functions of intestinal barrier/intestinal flora among yellow-feathered broilers
Authors: Yin Yangyan , Liao Yuying , Li Jun , Pei Zhe , Wang Leping , Shi Yan , Peng Hongyan , Tan Yizhou , Li Changting , Bai Huili , Ma Chunxia , Gong Yu , Wei Tianchao , Peng Hao
Published: July 2023

Lactobacillus plantarum has recently been found to be a natural source feed additive bacteria with great advantages in food safety and animal welfare. Discovering novel strains with commercial application potentiation could benefit the local poultry industry, and in particular support Chinese farmers. In this study, we tested a recently isolated novel strain of Lactobacillus plantarum GX17 as a feed additive on the growth performance and intestinal barrier functions of 1-day-old Chinese yellow-feather chicks. As good as other commercial probiotics, feeding with Lactobacillus plantarum GX17 showed significant improvements in humoral immune responses and enhanced the immune effect after vaccination for either the Newcastle disease vaccine or the avian influenza vaccine. This study also found that feeding with Lactobacillus plantarum GX17 improved the feed-to-weight ratio and caused a significant increase of the villus length to crypt depth ratio. Furthermore, Lactobacillus plantarum GX17 significantly up-regulated the mRNA expression of CLDN, MUC2, and TLR2, all of which are jejunum-associated barrier genes, indicating an improvement of the intestinal barrier functions by enhancing the tight junction between epithelia cells. These results are comparable to the effects of feeding the commercial complex probiotics that improve the expression levels of CLDN, ocludin, MUC2, TLR2, and TLR4. In terms of maintaining intestinal health, commercial complex probiotics increased the relative abundance of Parabacteroides and Romboutsia, while Lactobacillus plantarum GX17 increased the relative abundance of Pseudoflavonifractor. Our data suggest that Lactobacillus plantarum GX17 could enhance the intestinal absorption of nutrients and therefore improve the growth performance of Chinese yellow-feather chicks. In conclusion, compared with the commercial complex probiotics, Lactobacillus plantarum GX17 has more positive effects on the growth performance and intestinal barrier function of yellow-feather chickens, and can be used as a feed additive.
Cyto-IL-15 synergizes with the STING agonist ADU-S100 to eliminate prostate tumors and confer durable immunity in mouse models
Authors: Papaevangelou Efthymia , Esteves Ana M. , Dasgupta Prokar , Galustian Christine
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies in men with high mortality rates. Despite the recent therapeutic advances, such as immunotherapies, survival of patients with advance disease remains significantly low. Blockade of immune checkpoints has led to low response rates in these patients probably due to the immunosuppressive microenvironment and low mutation burden of prostate tumors. Combination of multiple immunotherapeutic regimes has also been unsatisfactory due to augmented adverse effects. To activate multiple immune-stimulatory pathways in the hostile prostate cancer microenvironment, we used a combination of cytotopically modified interleukin-15 (cyto-IL-15) with the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist, ADU-S100.

Methods

To determine whether this combination regime could lead to both local and systemic anti-tumor effects, intratumoral administration of these agents was used in murine models of prostate cancer. Tumor growth and mouse survival were monitored, and ex vivo analyses, and RNA sequencing were performed on the tumors.

Results

Intratumorally injected ADU-S100 and cyto-IL-15 synergized to eliminate tumors in 58-67% of mice with unilateral tumors and promoted abscopal immunity in 50% of mice with bilateral tumors treated only at one side. Moreover, this combination regime offered immunoprotection against tumor rechallenge in 83% of cured mice. The efficacy of the combination treatment was associated with a strong innate and adaptive immune activation and induction of apoptotic and necrotic cell death. Cytokines, including type I and II interferons, and cytokine signalling pathways were activated, NK and T cell mediated cytotoxicity was increased, and B cells were activated both locally and systemically. While ADU-S100 led to an ulcerative pathology at the injection site, no other adverse effects were observed.

Discussion

Localised administration of a STING agonist together with cyto-IL-15 can confer significant systemic benefits and long-lasting immunity against prostate tumors while reducing immune related toxicities.
Reprogramming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment: exploiting angiogenesis and thrombosis to enhance immunotherapy
Authors: Shafqat Areez , Omer Mohamed H. , Ahmed Eman Nayaz , Mushtaq Ali , Ijaz Eman , Ahmed Zara , Alkattan Khaled , Yaqinuddin Ahmed
Published: July 2023

This review focuses on the immunosuppressive effects of tumor angiogenesis and coagulation on the tumor microenvironment (TME). We summarize previous research efforts leveraging these observations and targeting these processes to enhance immunotherapy outcomes. Clinical trials have documented improved outcomes when combining anti-angiogenic agents and immunotherapy. However, their overall survival benefit over conventional therapy remains limited and certain tumors exhibit poor response to anti-angiogenic therapy. Additionally, whilst preclinical studies have shown several components of the tumor coagulome to curb effective anti-tumor immune responses, the clinical studies reporting combinations of anticoagulants with immunotherapies have demonstrated variable treatment outcomes. By reviewing the current state of the literature on this topic, we address the key questions and future directions in the field, the answers of which are crucial for developing effective strategies to reprogram the TME in order to further the field of cancer immunotherapy.
Hericium erinaceus, in combination with natural flavonoid/alkaloid and B3/B8 vitamins, can improve inflammatory burden in Inflammatory bowel diseases tissue: an ex vivo study
Authors: Gravina Antonietta Gerarda , Pellegrino Raffaele , Palladino Giovanna , Coppola Annachiara , Brandimarte Giovanni , Tuccillo Concetta , Ciardiello Fortunato , Romano Marco , Federico Alessandro
Published: July 2023

Hericium erinaceus, berberine, and quercetin are effective in experimental colitis. It is unknown whether they can ameliorate inflammatory bowel diseases in humans. This ex vivo study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of a nutraceutical compound of HBQ-Complex® (H. erinaceus, berberine, and quercetin), biotin, and niacin in inflammatory bowel disease patients. Tissue specimens were obtained either from Normal-Appearing Mucosa (NAM) or from Inflamed Mucosa (IM) in 20 patients with inflammatory bowel disease. mRNA and protein expression of COX-2, IL-10, and TNF-α were determined in NAM and IM biopsy samples (T0). IM samples were then incubated in HBQ-Complex® (with the addition of niacin and biotin), and COX-2, IL-10, and TNF-α tissue levels were evaluated at 120 minutes (T1) and 180 minutes (T2). Incubation with this compound resulted in a progressive decrease in gene and protein COX-2 and TNF-α expression at T1/T2 in the IM. IL-10 showed an opposite trend, with a progressive increase of mRNA and protein expression over the same time window. HBQ-Complex® (with the addition of niacin and biotin) decreased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines at the mRNA and protein levels in IBD tissue. On the contrary, mRNA and protein expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 showed a progressive increase.
Immunologic and vascular biomarkers of mortality in critical COVID-19 in a South African cohort
Authors: Shaw Jane Alexandra , Meiring Maynard , Snyders Candice , Everson Frans , Sigwadhi Lovemore Nyasha , Ngah Veranyay , Tromp Gerard , Allwood Brian , Koegelenberg Coenraad F. N. , Irusen Elvis M. , Lalla Usha , Baines Nicola , Zemlin Annalise E. , Erasmus Rajiv T. , Chapanduka Zivanai C. , Matsha Tandi E. , Walzl Gerhard , Strijdom Hans , du Plessis Nelita , Zumla Alimuddin , Chegou Novel , Malherbe Stephanus T. , Nyasulu Peter S.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Biomarkers predicting mortality among critical Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients provide insight into the underlying pathophysiology of fatal disease and assist with triaging of cases in overburdened settings. However, data describing these biomarkers in Sub-Saharan African populations are sparse.

Methods

We collected serum samples and corresponding clinical data from 87 patients with critical COVID-19 on day 1 of admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary hospital in Cape Town, South Africa, during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. A second sample from the same patients was collected on day 7 of ICU admission. Patients were followed up until in-hospital death or hospital discharge. A custom-designed 52 biomarker panel was performed on the Luminex® platform. Data were analyzed for any association between biomarkers and mortality based on pre-determined functional groups, and individual analytes.

Results

Of 87 patients, 55 (63.2%) died and 32 (36.8%) survived. We found a dysregulated cytokine response in patients who died, with elevated levels of type-1 and type-2 cytokines, chemokines, and acute phase reactants, as well as reduced levels of regulatory T cell cytokines. Interleukin (IL)-15 and IL-18 were elevated in those who died, and levels reduced over time in those who survived. Procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein, Endothelin-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 were elevated in those who died.

Discussion

These results show the pattern of dysregulation in critical COVID-19 in a Sub-Saharan African cohort. They suggest that fatal COVID-19 involved excessive activation of cytotoxic cells and the NLRP3 (nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich–containing family, pyrin domain–containing-3) inflammasome. Furthermore, superinfection and endothelial dysfunction with thrombosis might have contributed to mortality. HIV infection did not affect the outcome. A clinically relevant biosignature including PCT, pH and lymphocyte percentage on differential count, had an 84.8% sensitivity for mortality, and outperformed the Luminex-derived biosignature.