bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The “First daughter” effect: Human rights advocacy and attitudes toward gender equality in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan
Authors: Becvar Kristina , Carpenter Charli , Leidner Bernhard , Young Kevin L.
Published: July 2024

International concern for the human rights of Afghan women has spiked since the Taliban consolidated power in Afghanistan in fall 2021. Yet little is known about how to effectively advocate for women’s human rights under this new context. We present findings from a random sample of all adult Afghan internet users’ attitudes toward peace, security, gender, and human rights and find significant support for women’s human rights as a national priority within Afghanistan, even when controlling for other priorities and even among many men and women aligned with the Taliban. Given that men now have much more political power in Afghan society to protect women’s rights, we paid particular attention to men’s attitudes toward women’s human rights. Our evidence from an embedded survey experiment, building on earlier literature from other countries, demonstrates that fathers of eldest daughters are particularly likely to favor prioritizing women’s rights when primed to think about the gender of their eldest children. Thus, the human rights and humanitarian community should spend more time and attention engaging with this demographic, and specifically creating marketing and advocacy strategies that encourage men to think about or act on behalf of their eldest daughters.
Differentially expressed heterogeneous overdispersion genes testing for count data
Authors: Yuan Yubai , Xu Qi , Wani Agaz , Dahrendorff Jan , Wang Chengqi , Shen Arlina , Donglasan Janelle , Burgan Sarah , Graham Zachary , Uddin Monica , Wildman Derek , Qu Annie
Published: July 2024

The mRNA-seq data analysis is a powerful technology for inferring information from biological systems of interest. Specifically, the sequenced RNA fragments are aligned with genomic reference sequences, and we count the number of sequence fragments corresponding to each gene for each condition. A gene is identified as differentially expressed (DE) if the difference in its count numbers between conditions is statistically significant. Several statistical analysis methods have been developed to detect DE genes based on RNA-seq data. However, the existing methods could suffer decreasing power to identify DE genes arising from overdispersion and limited sample size, where overdispersion refers to the empirical phenomenon that the variance of read counts is larger than the mean of read counts. We propose a new differential expression analysis procedure: heterogeneous overdispersion genes testing (DEHOGT) based on heterogeneous overdispersion modeling and a post-hoc inference procedure. DEHOGT integrates sample information from all conditions and provides a more flexible and adaptive overdispersion modeling for the RNA-seq read count. DEHOGT adopts a gene-wise estimation scheme to enhance the detection power of differentially expressed genes when the number of replicates is limited as long as the number of conditions is large. DEHOGT is tested on the synthetic RNA-seq read count data and outperforms two popular existing methods, DESeq2 and EdgeR, in detecting DE genes. We apply the proposed method to a test dataset using RNAseq data from microglial cells. DEHOGT tends to detect more differently expressed genes potentially related to microglial cells under different stress hormones treatments.
Down-modulation of functional ventral striatum activation for emotional face stimuli in patients with insula damage
Authors: K. Klepzig , M. Domin , B. von Sarnowski , A. Lischke , M. Lotze
Published: July 2024

Insula damage results in substantial impairments in facial emotion recognition. In particular, left hemispheric damage appears to be associated with poorer recognition of aversively rated facial expressions. Functional imaging can provide information on differences in the processing of these stimuli in patients with insula lesions when compared to healthy matched controls (HCs). We therefore investigated 17 patients with insula lesions in the chronic stage following stroke and 13 HCs using a passive-viewing task with pictures of facial expressions testing the blood oxygenation dependent (BOLD) effect in predefined regions of interest (ROIs). We expected a decrease in functional activation in an area modulating emotional response (left ventral striatum) but not in the facial recognition areas in the left inferior fusiform gyrus. Quantification of BOLD-response in ROIs but also voxel-based statistics confirmed this hypothesis. The voxel-based analysis demonstrated that the decrease in BOLD in the left ventral striatum was driven by left hemispheric damaged patients (n = 10). In our patient group, insula activation was strongly associated with the intensity rating of facial expressions. In conclusion, the combination of performance testing and functional imaging in patients following circumscribed brain damage is a challenging method for understanding emotion processing in the human brain.
Machine learning for predicting cognitive decline within five years in Parkinson’s disease: Comparing cognitive assessment scales with DAT SPECT and clinical biomarkers
Authors: Gorji Arman , Fathi Jouzdani Ali
Published: July 2024

Objective

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is an age-related neurodegenerative condition characterized mostly by motor symptoms. Although a wide range of non-motor symptoms (NMS) are frequently experienced by PD patients. One of the important and common NMS is cognitive impairment, which is measured using different cognitive scales. Monitoring cognitive impairment and its decline in PD is essential for patient care and management. In this study, our goal is to identify the most effective cognitive scale in predicting cognitive decline over a 5-year timeframe initializing clinical biomarkers and DAT SPECT.

Methods

Machine Learning has previously shown superior performance in image and clinical data classification and detection. In this study, we propose to use machine learning with different types of data, such as DAT SPECT and clinical biomarkers, to predict PD-CD based on various cognitive scales. We collected 330 DAT SPECT images and their clinical data in baseline, years 2,3,4, and 5 from Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI). We then designed a 3D Autoencoder to extract deep radiomic features (DF) from DAT SPECT images, and we then concatenated it with 17 clinical features (CF) to predict cognitive decline based on Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and The Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS-I).

Results

The utilization of MoCA as a cognitive decline scale yielded better performance in various years compared to MDS-UPDRS-I. In year 4, the application of the deep radiomic feature resulted in the highest achievement, with a cross-validation AUC of 89.28, utilizing the gradient boosting classifier. For the MDS-UPDRS-I scale, the highest achievement was obtained by utilizing the deep radiomic feature, resulting in a cross-validation AUC of 81.34 with the random forest classifier.

Conclusions

The study findings indicate that the MoCA scale may be a more effective predictor of cognitive decline within 5 years compared to MDS-UPDRS-I. Furthermore, deep radiomic features had better performance compared to sole clinical biomarkers or clinical and deep radiomic combined. These results suggest that using the MoCA score and deep radiomic features extracted from DAT SPECT could be a promising approach for identifying individuals at risk for cognitive decline in four years. Future research is needed to validate these findings and explore their utility in clinical practice.
Altered states of consciousness caused by a mindfulness-based programme up to a year later: Results from a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Galante Julieta , Montero-Marín Jesús , Vainre Maris , Dufour Géraldine , García-Campayo Javier , Jones Peter B.
Published: July 2024

Background

Mindfulness-based programmes (MBPs) have shown beneficial effects on mental health. There is emerging evidence that MBPs may also be associated with marked deviations in the subjective experience of waking consciousness. We aimed to explore whether MBPs can have a causal role in different types of such states.

Methods

We conducted a pragmatic randomised controlled trial (ACTRN12615001160527). University of Cambridge students without severe mental illness were randomised to an 8-week MBP plus mental health support as usual (SAU), or to SAU alone. We adapted the Altered States of Consciousness Rating Scale (OAV, 0–100-point range) to assess spontaneous experiences in daily life, and included it as a post-hoc secondary outcome at the end of the one-year follow-up questionnaire. Two-part model analyses compared trial arms, and estimated dose-response effects of formal (meditation) and informal (daily activities) mindfulness practice during the year. Sensitivity analyses correcting for multiple comparisons were conducted.

Results

We randomised 670 participants; 205 (33%) completed the OAV. In comparison with SAU, MBP participants experienced unity more frequently and intensively (two-part marginal effect (ME) = 6.26 OAV scale points, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.24, 10.27, p = 0.006, Cohen’s d = 0.33) and disembodiment more frequently (ME = 4.84, 95% CI = 0.86, 8.83, p = 0.019, Cohen’s d = 0.26). Formal practice predicted spiritual, blissful and unity experiences, insightfulness, disembodiment, and changed meanings. Informal practice predicted unity and blissful experiences. Trial arm comparisons and informal practice effects lost significance after corrections for multiple comparisons, but formal practice dose-response effects remained significant.

Conclusions

Results provide a novel suggestion of causal links between mindfulness practice and specific altered states of consciousness. To optimise their impact, practitioners and teachers need to anticipate and handle them appropriately. Future studies need to confirm findings and assess mechanisms and clinical implications.
Functional characterization of Cullin-1-RING ubiquitin ligase (CRL1) complex in Leishmania infantum
Authors: Rolemberg Santana Travaglini Berti de Correia Camila , Torres Caroline , Gomes Ellen , Maffei Rodriguez Giovana , Klaysson Pereira Regatieri Wesley , Takamiya Nayore Tamie , Aparecida Rogerio Luana , Malavazi Iran , Damário Gomes Marcelo , Dener Damasceno Jeziel , Luiz da Silva Vitor , Antonio Fernandes de Oliveira Marcos , Santos da Silva Marcelo , Silva Nascimento Alessandro , Cappellazzo Coelho Adriano , Regina Maruyama Sandra , Teixeira Felipe Roberti
Published: July 2024

Cullin-1-RING ubiquitin ligases (CRL1) or SCF1 (SKP1-CUL1-RBX1) E3 ubiquitin ligases are the largest and most extensively investigated class of E3 ligases in mammals that regulate fundamental processes, such as the cell cycle and proliferation. These enzymes are multiprotein complexes comprising SKP1, CUL1, RBX1, and an F-box protein that acts as a specificity factor by interacting with SKP1 through its F-box domain and recruiting substrates via other domains. E3 ligases are important players in the ubiquitination process, recognizing and transferring ubiquitin to substrates destined for degradation by proteasomes or processing by deubiquitinating enzymes. The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) is the main regulator of intracellular proteolysis in eukaryotes and is required for parasites to alternate hosts in their life cycles, resulting in successful parasitism. Leishmania UPS is poorly investigated, and CRL1 in L. infantum, the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis in Latin America, is yet to be described. Here, we show that the L. infantum genes LINF_110018100 (SKP1-like protein), LINF_240029100 (cullin-like protein-like protein), and LINF_210005300 (ring-box protein 1 –putative) form a LinfCRL1 complex structurally similar to the H. sapiens CRL1. Mass spectrometry analysis of the LinfSkp1 and LinfCul1 interactomes revealed proteins involved in several intracellular processes, including six F-box proteins known as F-box-like proteins (Flp) (data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD051961). The interaction of LinfFlp 1–6 with LinfSkp1 was confirmed, and using in vitro ubiquitination assays, we demonstrated the function of the LinfCRL1(Flp1) complex to transfer ubiquitin. We also found that LinfSKP1 and LinfRBX1 knockouts resulted in nonviable L. infantum lineages, whereas LinfCUL1 was involved in parasite growth and rosette formation. Finally, our results suggest that LinfCul1 regulates the S phase progression and possibly the transition between the late S to G2 phase in L. infantum. Thus, a new class of E3 ubiquitin ligases has been described in L. infantum with functions related to various parasitic processes that may serve as prospective targets for leishmaniasis treatment.
As evidências documentais da gestão urbanística em Portugal
Authors: Patrício Sandra
Published: July 2024

Entre 1914, ano da restauração do concelho de Sines, e 1951, data do Regulamento Geral de Edificações Urbanas em Portugal, o licenciamento de obras particulares em Sines, uma das mais vetustas competências municipais, resultou numa colecção de requerimentos que permitem introduzir o estudo da gestão urbanística de um município em particular, o de Sines, que não resultou na produção de processos de obras particulares.
Começa-se por recensear os trabalhos científicos no que concerne aos conceitos de arquivos de arquitectura e processos de obras particulares através de uma revisão da literatura. Numa segunda fase, tendo por base o método de investigação documental, analisa-se o quadro regulador, em contraste com a documentação produzida e o contexto local. Identificam-se e analisam-se os instrumentos que regularam a gestão urbanística de Sines desde a restauração do concelho no período em questão. Conclui-se com a caracterização da dinâmica do licenciamento e as suas dificuldades, à luz dos seus regulamentos e do contexto local.
Para sair da canoa: a questão da teoria/a teoria em questão
Authors: Araújo Nabil
Published: July 2024

Em texto intitulado “Luiz Costa Lima e a teoria do romance (Retorno à Poética)” (2020), analisamos criticamente a teorização do romance na obra do teórico brasileiro como parte de sua mais ampla teorização sobre a mímesis e o controle do imaginário. A resposta de Costa Lima surgiu dois anos mais tarde, com o título de “A questão da teoria” (2022). Neste texto, apresentamos uma tréplica, com vistas menos à teorização do romance do que à chamada “questão da teoria”, algo que Costa Lima nomeia com vistas a um debate por ele protagonizado há meio século a propósito do lugar e da função da teoria da literatura nos estudos literários no Brasil.
Gastric Tube Volvulus Occurring Years After Esophagectomy and Its Successful Treatment Via Endoscopic Stenting
Authors: Miller Alexander , Moudgal Rohitha , Dairi Obaida , Adler Jeffrey M. , Rothstein Richard I.
Published: July 2024

Esophageal cancer is frequently treated with esophagectomy, which is associated with distinct complications. Delayed gastric conduit emptying is a well-recognized complication that usually occurs within the postoperative period. By contrast, gastric tube volvulus is a rarer complication with a more variable time course of onset after esophagectomy and can be mistaken for delayed gastric conduit emptying. We describe the fifth reported case of gastric tube volvulus occurring years after esophagectomy and its successful treatment via endoscopic stenting.
Crohn's Disease Associated With IgA Nephropathy Effectively Treated With the Interleukin-23 Inhibitor Risankizumab
Authors: Larson Charlotte , Munir Naim , Rao Panduranga , Farkash Evan , Kathuria Priya , Romain Dustin , Berinstein Jeffery
Published: July 2024

Extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) are common in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Renal EIMs, including immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN), are relatively rare. EIMs are important to consider when developing a treatment plan for IBD. Studies differ on whether IBD disease activity correlates with IgAN disease activity. Published guidance on effective therapies for IBD-associated IgAN is limited. This case report suggests that risankizumab, an effective therapy for Crohn's disease, may also be effective in treating Crohn's disease–associated IgAN.
Poorly Cohesive Carcinoma of the Nonampullary Small Bowel: A Rare Cause of Recurrent Small Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Lee Brian J. , Guzman Jesus , Padilla Osvaldo , Laks Shaked , Ng Nathaniel , Elhanafi Sherif E. , Badillo Ricardo , Zuckerman Marc J.
Published: July 2024

Poorly cohesive carcinoma (PCC) is an uncommon neoplasm characterized by tumorous cells exhibiting a lack of adhesion. PCC has been reported rarely in the small intestine other than at the ampulla of Vater. We present a 40-year-old man with recurrent abdominal pain and small bowel obstruction. Imaging revealed an abnormal appearing distal small bowel, with only nonspecific mucosal changes discovered on antegrade and retrograde enteroscopy. On subsequent diagnostic laparoscopy, an ileal mass was found and resected with histopathology showing PCC with signet ring formation. This is an aggressive cancer with a worse prognosis than other small bowel adenocarcinomas.
Sevelamer-Induced Ischemic Enteritis
Authors: Darnell Hannah , Brenner Aaron , Kern Cody , Flomenhoft Deborah , Lee Eun
Published: July 2024

Sevelamer, a nonabsorbable dietary phosphate binder, is essential for patients with renal impairment since hyperphosphatemia is associated with an increase in all-cause mortality. Sevelamer is generally well tolerated; however, it is rarely been documented to cause gastrointestinal mucosal injury by forming sevelamer crystals and depositing within the gastrointestinal walls. We present a 35-year-old man with end-stage renal disease on peritoneal dialysis who developed abdominal pain and hematochezia. Initial imaging and endoscopic examination were concerning for ischemic enteritis, and histopathology revealed crystalloid structures surrounded by necrosis consistent with sevelamer-induced ischemic enteritis.
Iron (Fe) Nutrient Dynamics in Oil Palm Leaves
Authors: Sinaga Rinjani Alpiriantho , Priatmadi Bambang Joko , Ichriani Gusti Irya , Purnomo Joko , Sukarman  , Primananda Septa , Sibarani Fadri Togihon
Published: July 2024

Iron (Fe) management is crucial in cultivating oil palm, especially in sandy soils, due to its essential role in supporting photosynthesis and palm metabolism, directly influencing the quality and productivity of oil palms. This study aimed to explore the dynamics of Fe deficiency in oil palm leaves in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. Using a Split Plot Design, the study compared plant conditions between the control (T0) and three levels of Fe deficiency: low (T1), moderate (T2), and severe (T3). Palm samples were selected using the purposive sampling method. Laboratory analysis of leaf samples indicated a significant decrease in Fe content in deficient palms, with levels of 41.49 µg/g in T1, 42.59 µg/g in T2, and 38.93 µg/g in T3, compared to the control group, which had 67.25 µg/g. The study also revealed that Fe deficiency affects the absorption of other macro and micronutrients. For instance, nitrogen levels increased under moderate Fe deficiency (2.57%), while potassium levels decreased (0.729%) at the same level. Despite the Fe deficiency, the plants adapted by maintaining other nutrient levels within a moderate range. Under severe Fe deficiency conditions, Cu levels reached their highest (5.868 µg/g), while Fe showed a significant decrease. This confirms that oil palm has complex nutrient adaptation and regulation mechanisms to maintain nutrient balance even under deficient conditions. These results emphasize the importance of Fe management in oil palm plantations, especially in sandy soils that are prone to nutrient deficiency.
Terrestrial isopods (Isopoda: Oniscidea) in the Upper Mežica valley
Authors: Štern Petra , Zidar Primož
Published: July 2024

The distribution of terrestrial isopods in many parts of Slovenia is still poorly documented. This article is a contribution to the knowledge of the terrestrial isopod fauna in the Upper Mežica Valley, which is known for its long mining tradition. Isopods were collected from April to October 2022 by hand from 49 localities in the wider area of two towns – Žerjav and Črna na Koroškem in the area of Podpeca, the area above the Bistra Valley, and in the areas Spodnje Javorje and Javorje. Twelve different taxa of terrestrial isopods were determined, eleven of them to the species level. The most frequently found isopod was Trachelipus ratzeburgii as the researched area is mainly forest covered. However, the highest diversity of species was recorded in urban and semiurban areas. Oniscus asellus was found in the town Črna na Koroškem, which is probably the second documented location of O. asellus in Slovenia.
Complications of revision knee arthroplasty
Authors: Haiko H. V. , Pidhaietskyi V. M. , Sulyma O. M. , Chornyi V. M.
Published: July 2024

Due to the growing scale of arthroplasty and the widening of indications for knee joint replacement, the durability of joint functioning has become a critical issue. Untimely diagnosis and inadequate treatment of patients with endoprosthesis component loosening leads to major bone defects.
This problem arises from repeated joint interventions, large bone defects and duration of revision surgeries, that is fraught with catastrophic consequences for patients – revision prosthesis removal or even limb amputation. The project aims to improve the treatment for patients with instability of components after knee joint arthroplasty.
The aim of the study is to analyze the results of revision knee arthroplasty and identify the causes of mistakes and complications of revision arthroplasty with the intention of prevention.
Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis of 50 revision knee arthroplasties performed at the Centre for Arthroplasty of the State Institution “Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine” was conducted. Clinical and radiological findings were evaluated for all patients. All revision prostheses used in this study were of the semi-constrained type. Cementation technique was used for all implants. In the revision of the septic complication group, a full cementation technique with antibiotics according to a sensitivity profile were used, while in the aseptic complication group, a surface cementation technique with antibiotics according to sensitivities were used.
Results. The authors of the project have analyzed the results of treatment of 50 revision arthroplasty procedures performed between 2013 and 2022 for instability of the endoprosthesis components. The structure of complications has been examined and the causes of failure in revision knee arthroplasty have been identified. This study has shown promise in preventing complications and developing personalized approaches to revision arthroplasty.
Conclusions. The analysis of revision knee arthroplasty failure has shown the prevalence of septic complications (56.0 %). In the case of septic complications after revision arthroplasty, Staphylococcus aureus prevailed (57.1 %), gram (-) microorganisms were causative agents in other cases. Factors resulting in aseptic complications included those associated with the surgical intervention (81.8 %), the patient (45.4 %) and the combination thereof (72.7 %). Significant causes of the femoral revision component loosening were residual valgus deformity, medial instability in the frontal plane; significant causes of the tibial component loosening were residual varus deformity and lateral instability in the frontal plane.
Etiological and immunopathogenetic aspects of multiorgan failure development in coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
Authors: Ashcheulova T. V. , Herasymchuk N. M. , Kochubiei O. A. , Herasymchuk U. S.
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 epidemic has already come to be seen as an emergency of international concern. This relates not only to the wide occurrence of the infection, but also to a fairly high mortality rate, currently more than 6.5 million deaths in the world.
The aim of this study was to analyze, generalize and systematize the currently available literary data on the study of the novel coronavirus infection pathogenesis in the human body and to determine key changes that occur after the SARS-CoV-2 penetration into cells. In this way to target physicians primarily based on the pathogenetic processes that occur in the human body, syndromes and symptom complexes that are observed in treatments.
Results. The article presents a literature review demonstrating that the specific interaction between the virus and somatic cells is the triggering mechanism for the pathogenesis of coronavirus infection. The main route for SARS-CoV-2 entry into the body is the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, which is expressed not only in type 2 alveolar epithelial cells, but also in cells of the kidney, heart, blood vessels and gastrointestinal tract, including endotheliocytes and pericytes. Expression of the ACE2 receptor has also been shown in various structures and parts of the brain, cells of the conjunctiva, limbus, cornea and cells of the substantia propria. A high expression of the ACE2 receptor has been found in the epithelial cells of the oral mucosa, salivary glands, tonsils and tongue. These factors explain a possible involvement of different organs and systems in the development of multiorgan failure.
Conclusions. In the development of multiorgan disfunction, two components are important: first, direct cell tropism and viral load, that may be unique in each patient. Secondly, it is the development of immune-mediated reactions to infected cells. Under conditions of hyperimmune inflammation, that is, the development of cytokine storm, acute respiratory distress syndrome progresses, and multiple organ failure develops. Endothelial damage is directly involved in the pathophysiology of this process, that results in the development of endothelial dysfunction, disruption of microcirculation, as well as perivascular inflammation, which aggravates damage to the endothelium and can lead to thrombus formation.
The use of modern knowledge about the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19 would help to estimate the risk for severe infection and the possible development of complications, allowing for the timely implementation of effective pathogenetic therapy.
Trends in European language education policy on teacher education: Teaching foreign languages to young learners
Authors: Komorowska Hanna , Krajka Jaroslaw
Published: July 2024

Contemporary language education to young learners is seeing an increased focus on individual variation, due to students’ special educational needs and the diversity of contexts in which instruction takes place. This leads to the increased creativity of teachers and the emergence of innovative practices in various areas of teaching languages to children. On the other hand, due to globalization and international cooperation, language teaching experiences a degree of standardization. One source of this may be the impact of European education policy. Due to such influential tools as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages or the European Portfolio for Pre-Primary Educators, educational systems find it convenient and useful to apply some of these assumptions. Therefore, it is important to make an overview of trends in European education policy in reference to teaching young learners, to indicate what kind of support can be given to language instructors in their work with children. The research question posed in the paper is to what extent the most important European policy documents and tools prove relevant in the practice of young learner educators? The analysis indicates the viability of selected European policy tools, modifications of their use across the years and new forms of implementation in the social media era.
Analysis of alpha‐1‐antitrypsin (AAT)‐regulated, glucocorticoid receptor‐dependent genes in macrophages reveals a novel host defense function of AAT
Authors: Bai Xiyuan , Gao Junfeng , Guan Xiaoyu , Narum Drew E. , Fornis Lorelenn B. , Griffith David E. , Gao Bifeng , Sandhaus Robert A. , Huang Hua , Chan Edward D.
Published: July 2024

Alpha‐1‐antitrypsin (AAT) plays a homeostatic role in attenuating excessive inflammation and augmenting host defense against microbes. We demonstrated previously that AAT binds to the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) resulting in significant anti‐inflammatory and antimycobacterial consequences in macrophages. Our current investigation aims to uncover AAT‐regulated genes that rely on GR in macrophages. We incubated control THP‐1 cells (THP‐1control) and THP‐1 cells knocked down for GR (THP‐1GR‐KD) with AAT, performed bulk RNA sequencing, and analyzed the findings. In THP‐1control cells, AAT significantly upregulated 408 genes and downregulated 376 genes. Comparing THP‐1control and THP‐1GR‐KD cells, 125 (30.6%) of the AAT‐upregulated genes and 154 (41.0%) of the AAT‐downregulated genes were significantly dependent on GR. Among the AAT‐upregulated, GR‐dependent genes, CSF‐2 that encodes for granulocyte‐monocyte colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), known to be host‐protective against nontuberculous mycobacteria, was strongly upregulated by AAT and dependent on GR. We further quantified the mRNA and protein of several AAT‐upregulated, GR‐dependent genes in macrophages and the mRNA of several AAT‐downregulated, GR‐dependent genes. We also discussed the function(s) of selected AAT‐regulated, GR‐dependent gene products largely in the context of mycobacterial infections. In conclusion, AAT regulated several genes that are dependent on GR and play roles in host immunity against mycobacteria.
The effect of endothelin a receptor inhibition and biological sex on cutaneous microvascular function in non‐Hispanic Black and White young adults
Authors: Turner Casey G. , Hayat Matthew J. , Otis Jeffrey S. , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Wong Brett J.
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether endothelin‐A receptor (ETAR) inhibition in non‐Hispanic Black (NHB) and White (NHW) young adults depends on biological sex. We recruited females during low hormone (n = 22) and high hormone (n = 22) phases, and males (n = 22). Participants self‐identified as NHB (n = 33) or NHW (n = 33). Participants were instrumented with two microdialysis fibers: (1) lactated Ringer's (control) and (2) 500 nM BQ‐123 (ETAR antagonist). Local heating was used to elicit cutaneous vasodilation, and an infusion of 20 mM L‐NAME to quantify NO‐dependent vasodilation. At control sites, NO‐dependent vasodilation was lowest in NHB males (46 ± 13 %NO) and NHB females during low hormone phases (47 ± 12 %NO) compared to all NHW groups. Inhibition of ETAR increased NO‐dependent vasodilation in NHB males (66 ± 13 %NO), in both groups of females during low hormone phases (NHW, control: 64 ± 12 %NO, BQ‐123: 85 ± 11 %NO; NHB, BQ‐123: 68 ± 13 %NO), and in NHB females during high hormone phases (control: 61 ± 11 %NO, BQ‐123: 83 ± 9 %NO). There was no effect for ETAR inhibition in NHW males or females during high hormone phases. These data suggest the effect of ETAR inhibition on NO‐dependent vasodilation is influenced by biological sex and racial identity.
Cardioprotective effects of nanoparticles green formulated by Spinacia oleracea extract on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in mice by the determination of PPAR-γ/NF-κB pathway
Authors: Xu Zhongyang , Xu Ningyu , Zhang Tingcui , Wang Jing , Wang Xiaoqi
Published: July 2024

We developed a contemporary cardioprotective medication using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) loaded with Spinacia oleracea to treat isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction in mice, focusing on the PPAR-γ/NF-κB pathway. The physicochemical techniques, such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray analysis, were employed to characterize the AgNPs. In the in vivo experiment, myocardial infarction was induced in mice by administering ISO subcutaneously at a dose of 40 mg/kg every 12 h for a total of three times. The mice were divided into five groups in a random manner: (1 and 2) ISO + AgNPs at varying doses (10 and 20 μg/mL) and time points; (3) ISO; and (4) control. Following the treatment, cardiac function was assessed through electrocardiogram, as well as biochemical and histochemical analyses. In the study, we examined the inflammatory reactions and cell death in human coronary artery endothelial cells exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The PPAR-γ/NF-κB activation by LPS and the resulting cytokine production were checked using real-time PCR and western blot techniques. The typical ST segment depression in myocardial infarction mice is significantly inhibited by the administration of AgNPs. Additionally, the treatment with AgNPs leads to a significant improvement in ventricular wall infarction, a decrease in mortality rate, and inhibition of myocardial injury marker levels. Furthermore, the application of AgNPs resulted in a decrease in the inflammatory environment within the hearts of mice with myocardial infarction. This effectively prevented the increase in TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. The gene expression normalization of PPAR-γ/NF-κB/IκB-α/IKKα/β and PPAR-γ phosphorylation could potentially be linked to the advantageous impacts of AgNPs. In the context of an in vitro experiment, the administration of AgNPs demonstrated a notable decrease in cell death and inflammation cytokines expression inhibition. The myocardial infarction mice in the pre + post-ISO group appear to experience more noticeable cardioprotective effects from the treatment with AgNPs than those in the post-ISO group. Our research findings demonstrate that AgNPs possess cardioprotective efficacies in ISO-induced myocardial infarction. This beneficial effect may be attributed to the PPAR-γ activation and the NF-κB signaling inhibition. Consequently, our study presents a novel remedial approach for myocardial infarction treatment in clinical settings.
Transition from machine intelligence to knowledge intelligence: A multi-agent simulation approach to technology transfer
Authors: Gong Shuanglei
Published: July 2024

The traditional machine intelligence system lacks deep understanding and reasoning ability. This study took the automatic driving system in multi-agent as an example to bring higher-level intelligence and decision-making ability to automatic driving through knowledge intelligence. It obtained real-world geographic information data from OpenStreetMap, preprocessed the data, and built a virtual environment. The inception model was used to identify information in environmental images, and the knowledge information of traffic regulations, road signs, and traffic accidents was expressed to build a knowledge map. The knowledge related to automatic driving was integrated, and automatic driving training was carried out through the reward mechanism and the deep Q-network (DQN) model. About 13 kinds of traffic situations were set up in the virtual environment, and the traditional machine intelligence autonomous driving and knowledge fusion autonomous driving multi-agent were compared. The results show that the average number of accidents in 100,000 km of traditional machine intelligence autonomous driving and knowledge fusion autonomous driving multi-agents was 3 and 1.4, and the average number of violations in 100,000 km was 4.3 and 1.8, respectively. The average graphics processing unit (GPU) utilization rate of knowledge fusion autonomous driving in 13 virtual environments was 75.9%, and the average peak GPU utilization rate was 96.1%. Knowledge fusion of autonomous driving multi-agents can effectively improve the safety of autonomous driving and enable autonomous driving multi-agents to have a higher level of decision-making ability.
Electrocutions as an important cause of mortality for a mesocarnivore
Authors: Balmori-de la Puente Alfonso , Balmori Alfonso
Published: July 2024

In this work, we have analysed the different causes of admissions of stone martens (Martes foina), genets (Genetta genetta) and pine martens (Martes martes) in two rehabilitation centres in Castilla y León (Spain) during 32 years (1991–2022). The results indicate that the most important factor for stone martens was road kills with 227 martens (53.4 %) followed by electrocutions with 90 martens (21.2 %). From genets, 94 of them (68.6 %) were due to roadkill and 7 (5.1 %) were due to electrocution. The most important cause of admission for pine martens was road kills with 22 (88 %) and 1 (4 %) due to electrocution. Possible explanations for the observed high mortality of stone martens in electric pylons are discussed.
Novel insights into red deer (Cervus elaphus) habitat use and suitability in human-dominated versus near-natural landscapes
Authors: Willisch Christian S. , Bieri Willisch Katrin , Boldt Andreas , Magun Bettina , Marreros Nelson , Struch Mark , Tschan Marcel , Pisano Simone R.
Published: July 2024

Red deer populations, once extirpated in large parts of Europe, have recovered over the last century in many regions. In Switzerland, primarily inhabiting mountain forests, they have recently started to expand into human-dominated lowland landscapes. To study their habitat selection, we analyzed day- and nighttime positions of 15 GPS-collared red deer. Our results show that during daytime, all animals generally preferred forests; open land was mainly used at night. In summer and fall, some lowland individuals deviated from this pattern and used agricultural crops as daytime retreats. Human settlements were often avoided in the lowlands. Day-site selection in the lowlands occurred irrespective of the distance to trails and the probability of being accessed by humans, in contrast to the pattern observed in the mountains. At night, red deer preferred forest edges and open land. In the lowlands, human settlements were avoided. Trails and transport infrastructures had a marginal influence at night. Our study confirmed a high behavioral plasticity of red deer. The use of daytime retreats close to trails and in high-standing crops represent major extensions of their behavior. Our habitat models indicate that there is ample suitable habitat in the lowlands, which is of major relevance for their management.
Southernmost occurrence of Cuniculus paca (Rodentia, Cuniculidae): new Argentinean localities based on vouchers
Authors: Cuellar Soto Erika , Krauczuk Ernesto R. , Pardiñas Ulyses F.J.
Published: July 2024

Limited vouchered records exist for Cuniculus paca, the second-largest living caviomorph rodent, documenting its southernmost occurrence. Here, we introduce four new recording sites based on skulls probably discarded by local hunters, with three located in Misiones Province and the fourth marking the first supported evidence in the neighboring Corrientes Province in Argentina. The data remains inconclusive as to whether the latter location signifies a southern expansion of this rodent due to climate change or simply an overlooked population that has long been established. Regardless, these findings underscore the importance of increased fieldwork and specimen collection.
The Social Enterprise Craze: CSO Financial Sustainability in Ghana
Authors: Oeding Noemí , Newby Kara
Published: July 2024

As a relatively stable democracy, Ghana has long been a popular country for international donors. However, recent changes in its classification by the World Bank and government proclamations have led to a reduction in foreign aid, forcing Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to confront the financial sustainability of their organizations. In this study, we test the typology proposed by Arhin et al. (2018. “Facing the Bullet? Non-Governmental Organisations’ (NGOs’) Responses to the Changing Aid Landscape in Ghana.” Voluntas: International Journal of Voluntary and Nonprofit Organizations 29 (2): 348–60) which finds that CSOs in Ghana are using six different strategies to work toward financial sustainability. Based on an original survey of 42 CSOs, our findings indicate an almost exclusive focus on income generation in the form of social enterprises. The challenges this poses to the sector are discussed.
Differential study on the thermal–physical properties of metal and its oxide nanoparticle-formed nanofluids: Molecular dynamics simulation investigation of argon-based nanofluids
Authors: Li Chenghang , Luo Zhumei , Qing Shan , Huang Haoming , Zhang Xiaohui
Published: July 2024

The influence of nanoparticle shape, volume fraction, and temperature on the thermal properties of nanofluids plays a pivotal role in engineering applications. However, there remains a considerable lack of systematic research comprehensively considering these factors to study the similarities and differences in the thermal properties of nanofluids composed of metals and their oxides and to conduct in-depth analyses of their internal mechanisms and characteristics. In this study, molecular dynamics simulations were conducted, employing reversing perturbation non-equilibrium molecular dynamics and non-equilibrium molecular dynamics methods. The thermal conductivity and viscosity of Al–Ar and Al2O3–Ar nanofluids were thoroughly investigated under the various influencing factors. Results reveal that under identical conditions, the thermal conductivity of Al–Ar nanofluid surpasses that of Al2O3–Ar nanofluid, exemplified by values such as 0.1832 W/m K (Al–Ar, 1.5%, cylinder, 86 K) versus 0.17745 W/m K (Al2O3–Ar, 1.5%, cylinder, 86 K). Furthermore, the viscosity of Al–Ar nanofluid is lower than that of Al2O3–Ar nanofluid, demonstrated by values such as 0.0004882 Pa S (Al–Ar nanofluid, 86 K, 2.5%, platelets) compared to 0.008975 Pa S (Al2O3–Ar nanofluid, 86 K, 2.5%, platelets). Subsequently, this study analyzed the difference in thermal conductivity between the two nanofluids from the perspective of microscale interface heat conduction by comparing the phonon density of states curves of Al, Ar, and Al2O3 in the two nanofluids for overlap. Subsequently, through radial distribution function analysis, the viscosity difference between Al–Ar and Al2O3–Ar nanofluids is explained based on nanofluid–solid interface and microstructural considerations. This research addresses the comprehensive lack of comparative studies on the thermal properties of nanofluids formed by metals and their oxides. The internal mechanisms underlying the thermal property differences of nanofluids formed by metals and their oxides were revealed from a microscopic perspective, which holds significant implications for the engineering applications of nanofluids.
Effects of dietary Adansonia digitata L. (baobab) seed meal on growth performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ogbuewu Ifeanyichukwu Princewill , Alagma Henry Ayindoh , Mabelebele Monnye , Mbajiorgu Christian Anayo
Published: July 2024

The seeds of lesser-known tropical legume trees are currently being promoted as a cost-effective method of increasing broiler productivity, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Several feeding trials have evaluated the effects of baobab seed meal (BSM) on broiler chicken productivity. However, due to differences in experimental conditions among feeding trials, drawing broad conclusions using this large volume of data appears difficult. Thus, the meta-analytic effect of BSM on growth performance [i.e., feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and body weight gain (BWG)] and carcass characteristics of broilers were investigated using 14 peer-reviewed published articles. These articles were retrieved via a systematic search conducted on Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Elicit.com, and PubMed databases. The effect size was calculated via a random effect model, and results were expressed as standardised mean differences (SMD) at 95% confidence intervals. The pooled results showed that broilers fed BSM had significantly lower BWG (SMD = −0.77; −0.19, −0.30; p < 0.001), dressed carcass weight (SMD = −0.84; −1.44, −0.23; p = 0.007), and higher FCR (SMD = 0.55; 0.19, 0.91; p < 0.001) than those fed control diets. However, feed intake, dressing percentage, and weights of breast, thigh, and drumstick were not significantly affected. Subgroup analyses showed that the Marshall strain-fed BSM-based diets had significantly heavier BWG (p < 0.001) than the Hubbard, Ross, and Anak strains. Similarly, results revealed that broilers fed soaked and roasted BSM had significantly better FCR and BWG than broilers fed sundried and fermented BSM. Broilers fed BSM-based diets from days 29–56 (SMD = 0.17; −0.51, 0.84; p = 0.622) and days 1−56 (SMD = −0.89; −1.41, −0.36; p < 0.001) had significantly improved FCR compared to those offered BSM-based diets from days 1–21 (SMD = 2.58; 1.65, 3.51; p < 0.001), days 1–28 (SMD = 0.85; 0.35, 1.34; p < 0.001), and days 22–42 (SMD = 1.82; 1.02, 2.62; p < 0.001). Similarly, broilers fed BSM-based diets from days 29–56 (SMD = 0.21; −0.38, 0.79; p = 0.484) and days 1−56 (SMD = 0.92; 0.16, 1.69; p = 0.018) had significantly higher BWG than those offered BSM-based diets from days 1–21 (SMD = −3.39; −4.41, −2.37; p < 0.001), days 1–28 (SMD = −1.32; −1.91, −0.72; p < 0.001), and days 22–42 (SMD = −2.24; −2.75, 1.73; p < 0.001). Meta-regression revealed a low to moderate effect of processing methods, broiler strains, inclusion level, and feeding duration as covariates, explaining most of the sources of heterogeneity. In conclusion, broilers fed 1–10% of soaked, and roasted BSM from days 1 to 56 had improved growth performance parameters when compared to those on the control.
Synthesis, characterization and antioxidant screening of a 1,10-phenanthroline-based tetraza-macrocyclic ligand and its nickel complex with therapeutic potential and catalytic significance
Authors: Ohaekenyem Emmanuel C. , Onyido Ikenna
Published: July 2024

In this study, we present a synthetic route for the preparation of a novel 1,10- phenanthroline-based tetraza-macrocyclic ligand, 5,12,25,28-tetraazaheptacyclo [14.8.4.2⁴,⁷.210,13.0⁶,11.019,27.022,26]dotriaconta-1 (25),4,6,8,10,12,16(28),17,19(27),20,22(26),23,29, 31-tetradecaene, 3 and its corresponding nickel complex, (28Z)-1,3,6,31-tetraaza-2-nickelaoctacyclo [17.9.3.2⁷,28.0³,16.0⁴,13.0⁵, 10.022,30.025,29]tritriaconta-4(13),5(10),6,8,11,14,16,19(31),20,22(30), 23,25(29),26,28(32)-tetradecaene, 8. The ligand was synthesized via a condensation reaction involving 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline and 2,9-dicarbaldehyde-1,10 phenanthroline, followed by nickel metal complexation. Fourier-transformed infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and thermal analyses were employed to characterize the ligand and its Ni complex. Their ADMET parameters and potential macromolecular targets calculations showed they have therapeutic potentials. The antioxidant assay shows that Ni-complex is approximately 9 times more potent than the ligand with IC50 values of 0.045 mg/ml and 0.404 mg/ml, respectively. Their microspecies distribution which was predicted using ChemAxon Predictor revealed their catalytic potentials The reaction mechanisms involved are discussed. The 1,10-phenanthroline-based macrocyclic ligand and its nickel complex significantly expand the structural diversity within the tetraza-macrocyclic ligand system and serve as base ligands for the development of possible derivatives, with concomitant applicability in drug development and catalysis.